GRAND LODGE of KANSAS A.F.&A.M.
GRAND LODGE
2018
THE ANNUAL PROCEEDINGS OF THE
A.D.1925 - 1929 A.L. 5925 - 5929
OF
KANSAS ANCIENT
FREE & ACCEPTED
MASONS
1925 - Wichita 1926 - Topeka 1927 - Wichita 1928 - Topeka 1929 - Wichita
Page 5 Page 425 Page 893 Page 1494 Page 1997
PROCEEDINGS
M:.W;. GRAND LODGE ANCIENT, FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS
KANSAS. SIXTY-NINTH ANNUAL COMMUNICATION, H E L D IN THE CITY OF WICHITA, KANSAS, February 25 and 26, A. D. 1925, A. L. 5925.
VOLUME XX, PART 1. M.-.W.-. CHARLES A. LOUCKS, Grand Master, Lakin. R.-. W.-. ALBERT K. WILSON, Grand Secretary, Topeka.
Published by Order of the M.'.W.-. Grand Lodge.
1925.
GRAND OFFICERS FOR 1925. M.-.W.-. CHARLES A. LOUCKS... R.-. W.-.JOHN W. NEILSON R.-. W.-. CHARLES N . FOWLER R/. W . - . F E R R I S M . H I L L
Grand Master Lakin. Deputy Grand Master....Concordia. Grand Senior Warden...Salina.. Grand Junior Warden..Emporia.
R.-. W.-. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH...Grand
R.-. W.-.ALBERT K . WILSON Bro. and Rev. FRED E . BROOKS W.-. GEORGE F . BEEZLEY W.'.JoHN S. RiGG. W.-. BAYARD J. LONG W.-. EMERSON B . WELLS W.-. CHARLIE E . CALE W.'. G. DONALD DICKEY W.-.FRANCIS L . PIERCE W.-. W. AMER BURNETT
Treasurer
Lawrence.
Grand Secretary Topeka. Grand Chaplain Marysville. Grand Senior Deacon....Girard. Grand Jwwior Deacon....Hutchinson. Grand Marshal Haviland. Grand Sword Bearer Topeka. Grand Senior Steward....FTatt. Grand Junior Steward ..heoti. Grand Pursuivant Lakin. Grand Tyler Oberlin.
PLACE OF MEETING—1926. The seventieth Annual Communication of the M.*. W.-. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas, will be held in the city of Topeka, Kansas, on the fourth Wednesday, being the 24th day of February, A. D. 1926, A. L..5926, at 9 o'clock A. M.
P R E S S OF KBTOHKSON P R I N T I N G CO. LEAVENWORTH, KANSAS.
ELMER F. STRAIN GRAND MASTER,
February 28, 1924, to February 26, 1925.
PROCEEDINGS OF T H E
]V[.-.W.. GRAND
LODGE:
—OF—
A. F . & A. M. OF KANSAS.
SIXTY-NINTH ANNUAL COMMUNICATION. WICHITA, KANSAS, February 25, 1925. The M.-. W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas convened in Annual Communication in the Banquet Hall of the Scottish Rite Temple, in the city of Wichita, Kansas, Wednesday, the 25th day of February, A. D. 1925, A. L. 5925, a t 9 o'clock A. M. GRAND OFFICERS PRESENT. M.-.W.-.ELMER F . STRAIN R.-.W/. CHARLES A. LOUCKS R.-. W/.JoHN W. NEILSON R.-. W.'. CHARLES N . FOWLER
Grand Master Topeka. Deputy Grand Master Lakin. Grand Senior l^arde?i ...Concordia. Grand Junior Warden....Salina.
R.-. W.". WILLIAM FRANK MARCH
Grand Treasurer
R.-. W.'.ALBERT K . WILSON Bro. and Rev. FRED E . BROOKS W/. FERRIS M . HILL W.'.PAUL M . MARTIN....W.-. RICHARD W . EVANS W.'.EMERSON B. WELLS W.'. GEORGE M . COPLIN W.-.FRANK C . TROUTFETTER
Grand Secretary Topeka. Grand Chaplain Marysville. Grand Senior Deacon Emporia. Grand Junior Deacon ....Highland. Grand Marshal Dodge City. Grand Sword Bearer Topeka. Grand Senior Steward ....Va.o\a. Grand Junior Steward....Colby.
Lawrence.
W.-. ELLSWORTH B . SEWELL, JR....Grand Pursuivant
Topeka.
W.". W. AMER BURNETT
Oberlin.
OPENING
Grand Tyler CEREMONY.
A constitutional number of lodges being represented, the M.-. W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was opened in Ample Form, after an invocation of divine blessing by Rev. FRED E . BROOKS, Grand Chaplain.
4
PROCEEDINGS OF THE
February,
OPENING PRAYER.
Oh, Lord GOD, the Sovereign Master of the Universe, and loved, adored and obeyed b y all who know Thee. We gratefully acknowledge Thee as our GOD and Father; we see Thy beauty in the handiwork of the starry heavens and we recognize Thy Holy Character in the moral law written into our hearts. We humbly invoke Thy blessing upon the Sessions of this Grand Lodge. Direct every thought and action toward the accomplishment of Thy purpose, of Truth and Justice, Good Will and Peace. Touch our hearts with Thy compassion that we may truly sympathize with those who are bereaved, especially the widow and orphan. Grant us patience for problems of difficulty and wisdom in periods of doubt. Be gracious unto our Worshipful Grand Master and all associated with him in authority, and complete their year's labor with a crown of personal satisfaction in work faithfully done. May all our labors here be done in view of the widest interest of the Kingdom of Heaven. May no person be caused to stumble and no human interest disregarded. Let the eternal virtues of Masonry guide us in all our deliberations. Hear our Prayer for the sake of the Lord JESUS CHRIST.—Amen. MESSAGES OF SYMPATHY.
On motion of M.-. W.-. WILLIAM L . BURDICK, and adopted by a rising vote, the Grand Secretary was directed to send the following messages: WICHITA, KANSAS, February 25, 1925.
WILLIAM I. STUART, Past Grand Master, Hiawatha, Kansas. The Masonic Grand Lodge of Kansas in its Annual Session greatly regrets your absence by reason of your illness. To you is sent the affectionate greetings of your assembled Brethren, coupled with their earnest prayers for your speedy restoration to health. ALBERT K . WILSON.
WICHITA, KANSAS, February 25, 1925.
PERRY M . HOISINGTON, Past Grand Master, Newton, Kansas. The Grand Lodge learns with deep sorrow and regret that sickness prevents your attendance on this session of the Grand Lodge. It is our hope and prayer that yoii may soon be restored to your former strength and vigor. ALBERT K . WILSON.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
5
WICHITA, KANSAS, February 25, 1925.
MARION K . BRUNDAGE, Past Grand Master, Russell, Kansas. The Masonic Grand Lodge of Kansas in its Annual Communication greatly regrets your absence and expresses the hope that you may b e spared and enjoy.the fellowship of your Brethren for many years. ALBERT K . WILSON.
TELEGRAMS.
The following telegrams were received in response to those transmitted the preceeding day: HIAWATHA, KANSAS, February 26, 1925.
ALBERT K . WILSON, Grand Secretary,'
.
Wichita, Kansas. I am inexpressably moved and pleased by message and greetings, and good wishes of the Grand Lodge. Thanks and GOD bless you all. WILLIAM I. STUART. RUSSELL, KANSAS, February 25, 1925.
ALBERT K . WILSON, Grand Secretary,
Wichita, Kansas. Please convey to Grand Lodge my deep appreciation of greetings and good wishes. They are an inspiration to make the expressed hope come true. MARION K . BRUNDAGE.
WELCOME TO VISITORS.
The M.".W.'. Grand Master extended a cordial invitation to all Master Masons in good standing to attend this Annual Communication. INTRODUCTION OF GRAND REPRESENTATIVES.
The Grand Secretary called the roll of Grand Representatives near the Grand Lodge of Kansas, who were welcomed by the M.".W.'. Grand Master. Suitable acknowledgment of the reception accorded them was made by W.-. JOHN M . KINKEL, Grand Representative of Alabama.
6
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON CREDENTIALS. W.-. R O B E R T H . M O N T G O M E R Y , chairman, s u b m i t t e d
t h e following report, which, on motion, was a d o p t e d : To the M:. W:. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: Your Committee on Credentials begs leave to report the following members and representatives present and entitled to seats in this Grand Lodge: GRAND OFFICERS.
M.-.W.-. ELMER F . STRAIN R.-. W.-. CHARLES A. LOUCKS R.-. W.-. JOHN W . NEILSON R.-. W.-. CHARLES N . FOWLER
Grand Master. Deputy Grand Master. Grand Senior Warden. Grand Junior Warden.
R.-. W.-. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH
Grand Treasurer.
R.-. W.'. ALBERT K . WILSON Bro. and Rev. F E E D E . BROOKS
Grand Secretary. Grand Chaplain.
W.-. FERRIS M . HILL W.-. PAUL M . MARTIN
Grand Senior Deacon. Grand Junior Deacon.
W.-. RICHARD W . EVANS
Grand Marshal.
W.-. EMERSON B . WELLS W.-. GEORGE M . COPLIN W.'. FRANK C . TROUTFETTER
Grand Sword Bearer. Grand Senior Steward. Grand Junior Steward.
W.-. ELLSWORTH B . SEWELL, J R "W.-. W. AMER BURNETT
Grand Pursuivant. Grand Tyler.
SUB-OFFICERS.
Bro. RICHARD J. HOPKINS
Grand Orator.
Bro. FRED H . WILSON
Assistant to Grand Secretary.
Bro. LEON L . COUSLAND
Official Stenographer.
Bro. WILLIAM J. BOND
Assistant Grand Tyler.
W.-. HARVEY O . DAVIS W.-. STANFORD M . SMART "W.\ GRAFTON D . WHITAKEE
Lecturer. Lecturer. Lecturer.
PAST GRAND MASTERS. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-.
JAMES H . M C C A L L THOMAS G . FITCH THOMAS L . BOND HENRY F . MASON WILLIAM EASTON HUTCHISON ELRICK C. COLE WILLIAM L . BURDICK G I L E S H . LAMB
M.-.W.-. bwEN J. W O O D . . . M.-.W.-. B E N S . PAULEN M.-.W.-. JOHN MCCULLAGH M.-.W.-. RICHARD E . BIRD
Year of
g^^^.^^_ 1895 1904 1906 1908 1912 1913 1915 1916
1919 ;..1921 1922 1923
1924-25.
GRAND LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTERS.
District No. JOHN H. CLARKE
3
iRoBERT W. RADFORD
4
CLAYBOURNB W . REYNOLDS 5 WALLACE C . HAMM 6 CHARLES V. PORTER 7 F R E D R O Y ALFORD 8 EDGAR T . FOSTER 9 HUBERT H . HUBBARD 10 A. PHILLIP LAPHAM 11 ARTHUR M . GARDNER 13 EDWIN C . EAGLES 16 ENOCH E . BROOKS ..17 ROY H . CLOSSEN..... 18 H I B L B . HAMPSHIRE 22 CLICK FOCKBLE 23 JAMES H . BEEGLE 24 ERNEST V. LINDAMOOD 27 ADELBERT E . CLOUGH 28 WILLIAM A. BUZICK 31 ROY G . SHEARER 32 JAMES A. CASSLER 33 CHARLES O . VARNBR 34 CLAUDE O . CONKBY 35 PERRY E . MILLER .....37 CHARLES S . LOCKLIN 40
District No. HARRY B . GRAHAM ORION E . FARRIS LEWIS G . JENNINGS HARMON J. BOWER HAYES FLOYD GEORGE F . BEEZLEY CLARENCE E . FARNSWORTH BENJAMIN H . FLYR CLARENCE M . CROSBY R. NELSON LONG BAYARD J. LONG HAROLD E . R I P P L E JOHN B . FLEMING BARLUS ROMSTEDT EARL W . RAY HARVEY B . BRENEMAN ELMER S. NANCE JOHN F . CARTER CLARKE S. POOL J. FORREST AYRES EDWARD M . SIMPSON PAUL B . HOFFMANN THOMAS R . CAUTHERS JAMES H . MURRELL JAMES H . TRICE
41 42 43 44 47 49 50 51 ...53 54 56 57 59 60 61 62 63 .64 .65 66 67 68 69 72 75
GRAND REPRESENTATIVES.
Alabama Arizona British Columbia California Canada Colombia Colorado Costa Rica Cuba Delaware Ecuador England Florida Guatemala Indiana Ireland Louisiana Maine
W.-.JOHN M . KINKEL. W.-. W. AMER BURNETT. W.-.A. PHILLIP LAPHAM. M.' .W.-. WILLIAM EASTON HUTCHISON W.-.HUBERT H . HUBBARD. W.-. ELLSWORTH B . SEWELL, J R . W.-. LAUREN D . RIGG. R.'. W.-. CHARLES N . FOWLER.
W.-.RoY H . CLOSSEN. W.'. ELMER S. NANCE. W.-.JAY B . KIRK. R.'. W.-. ALBERT K. WILSON. • M. .W.'. ELMER F . STRAIN.
W.-.LuciEN L. CONSTANT.
M. .W.-.OwEN J. WOOD. W.-. JOHN DAVIS.
W.-.HoMER T. HARDEN.
M.'.W.-. RICHARD E . BIRD.
8
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Manitoba W.' .HARRY B . GRAHAM.; Maryland W.'•. MOSES H . COLE. Mexico (York Grand Lodge) R.-. W.' .ALBERT K . WILSON. Michigan ....• r.. W.' . GEORGE T . MOHRBACHER. Mississippi .• W / .EDWIN C . EAGLES. Montana .• W.' . JAMES H . BEBGLE. New Brunswick .• W.'.HARRY E ; PEACH. New Jersey W.' .JOHN M . PLEASANT. New South Wales W / . HARMON J . BOWER. New York ;. W:. GEORGE F . BEEZLEY. New Zealand W.".FRANK E . DAVIS. North Dakota W.-.BRUCE GRIFFITH. Nova Scotia M/.W.' .JOHN MCCULLAGH. Ohio W.- .JOSEPH D . FELL. Oregon W.' .CHARLEY B . ERSKINB. ' Panama W.' . JAMES A. CASSLER. Philippine Islands W ; . ROY G . SHEARER. Prince Edward Island W.' . MARION M . MILLER. Puerto Rico M.'.W. '.WILLIAM L . BURDICK. Quebec W ; . CHARLES W . MILLER, J R . Queensland M/.W.' .ELRICK C . COLE. Rhode Island...... R.-. W.',. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH. Saskatchewan: W.' .JOHN B . FLEMING. .HARVEY 0. DAVIS. Scotland W. . RICHARD W . EVANS. South Australia W. .OTTO R . SOUDBRS. South Carolina W. . CHARLES A. LOUCKS. South Dakota R.-. W. -.BEN S. PAULEN. Tasmania M.'.W. -. GILES H . LAMB. Texas M.-.W. . HAYES FLOYD. Utah : W.-'.HENRY F . MASON. Vermont M.-. W.-'.BARLUS ROMSTEDT. Virginia W.' .STANFORD M . SMART. Washington W.-'.THOMAS G . FITCH. Western Australia M.-.W. .JOHN W . NEILSON. West Virginia R.-. W.PAST MASTERS. BENJAMIN F . H E I S ...No. HOLMES W . HAVILAND P H I L I P E U G E N E STOTLER.. JAMES E . PORTER CHARLES L . HIXON FRANK E . DAVIS ARTHUR E . HUDDLESTON.. LINDLEY L . LEFLER...-. PAUL A. LANGB ELMER MCCOOL
2 3 3 3 5 5 6 8 9 10
BURT CLUSTER HARRY E . PEACH CHARLES G . W E S T WILLIAM H . HARRISON
No.
11 12 12 12
JOSEPH E. McMuLLEN
15"
ARTHUR J. RHODES JACOB LUND GEORGE W . MCCLELLAND FRANK E . LEATHEKMAN.... HOMER C . ANDERSON
16 16 17 17 17
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE OF
HARVEY C . LIVERMORE No. CHARLES A. HYER MARION M . MILLER..........
19 19 26
WiLMOT A . R E D F I E L D .
29
JAMES A. CAMPBELL WILLIAM DIXON " JAY B . K I R K SEAMAN A. ELLIS DEAN G . ERHART. '...' THOMAS J. BOONE EDGAR D . MAY EVAN DAVIS '... ' CHESTER E . JOSS CLINTON D . HART ARCH L . B E L L HARRY G . MCPHERSON .... OTTO E . PERRY RICHARD H . CRAVENS JOSEPH H . COFFMAN ROBERT H . MONTGOMERY JOHN B . WILSON JOSEPH F . SEYMOUR
29 -32 38 38 45 49 51 51 51 51 52 53 56 60 62 63 67 68
WiNSON Z. M C K E A N . . .
68
GEORGE BURNS J. HARRY RILEY CLIFFORD O . AVEY HERMAN A. H I L L WILLIAM NELSON ROBERT C . CALDWELL RAY B . RAMSEY HENRY W . HAYER
70 84 86 86 90 90 90 91
W A L D E M A R V. R i E S E N
91
STEWART CLARK, J R GEORGE T . MOHRBACHER
91 91
ViRGEL A. OSBORNE
97
JAMBS H . SANDIFER WILBUR E . ROBBINS EDGAR L . GOLDEN WILLIAM RAY BROWN WALTER H . TOLIVER OTTO R . SOUDERS HOMER T . HARDIN GLEN CHAMBERLAIN CHARLES E . FRANK CHENAULT C . GENTRY JOHN M . PLEASANT WILLIAM O . SAVAGE JAMES M . JACOBY
97 97 97 97 98 99 99 99 99 99 ' 101 102 107
KANSAS.
AUSTIN J. PAIGE No. JOSEPH D . F E L L '. JOHN C . WASSON....'. MARK A. NONKEN., LUTHER L . BYINGTON JAMES W . WERTS.... GEORGE B . P I T T JOHN DAVIS . LEWIS W . DAVIS WATSON B . PLANNER GEORGE M . SEACAT JOHN S. RIGG .' JOHN M . K I N K E L CHARLES W . HARMONY .... ALVEENE B . ROGERS JOHN A. HETZEL WILLIAM S. D I X JOHN H . SCHUELL THOMAS H . SMYTH ARTHUR S. PEACOCK! HARVEY G. LOWRANCE JAMES C . 0 . MORSE, PERRY E . MILLER CLARENCE J. W E L L S ATHBLBERT A . F I S K EDWARD R . EVANS GEORGE W . ELLIOTT JAMES T . MCCLAMROCH.... GEORGE E . KAUFMAN JOHN B. RUL E RICHARD E . THOES GROVER L . LOAR GEORGE H . HUNGBRFORD CHARLES I. WELCH ANDERS SORENSEN LUCIAN L. CONSTANT HERBERT R . H U L L HOMER Q. HARRIS...
JOHN SwANSON HARRY HARRIS GEORGE W . TROUT DWIGHT T . ELGIN RALPH M . BURLIN WILLIAM H E Y N E N EDWARD SCHILLING ' J. F R E D WYATT CHARLES W . MILLER, J R . ROBERT P. MCCOLLOCH....
113 113 116 120 i21 123 i24 129 132 135 137 140 140 140 140 142 142 144 145 148 149 150 150 150 150 152 153 155 158 158 161 164 166 171 172 173 175 182
182 182 187 187 189 190 190 194 195 200
10
PROCEEDINGS
HARVEY O . DAVIS No. L E W I S G . JENNINGS SAMUEL M . BAKER JOSEPH E . BKEAKEY GEORGE F . MELVIN MOSES H . COLE GEORGE H. THORP GRAFTON D . WHITAKER.... FRANK U. KERSHNER • JOHN BERWICK CLARENCE R . ATEN LAUREN D . RIGG ARTHUR L. MARKS ARLEY M . KISTLBR WILLIAM C . CARTLIDGE.... HOMER B. F I N K MATHIAS M . MADISON HOWARD U . HOWSMAN A. DAVID F O X LOUIS M . TRISSELL WILBUR R . AMES BENJAMIN F . ZOOK FRANK L . LANDON HARVEY S . MCINTOSH RICHARD A. DADISMAN MYRON W . GLASER CHARLIE E . CALE H E N R Y L . GAMES... ARTHUR H . STRICKLAND... ALVA L . SWEAEINGBN WILLIAM H . BOSTON JOHN H . SCHIERECK CHARLEY B . ERSKINE ROBERT TELFERT ALFRED A. PETERSON HARRY L . IRWIN FRANCIS L . PIERCE ROBERT E . HATCH
200 200 203 204 206 206 208 212 '215 219 222 223 223 223 225 225 227 241 243 246 247 255 256 258 265 265 267 269 272 272 273 279 283 288 288 288 289 295
OF THE
February,
H E N R Y WALLENSTEIN No. BRUCE GRIFFITH BENJAMIN F . D U N K I N RAYMOND S. LOVE RAY RUTHRAUFF GEORGE B . CARTWRIGHT.. WILLIAM A. THOMPSON .... JACOB P. SCOTT CHARLES R . PETERSON CHARLES A. PROBST OSCAR L . KISTLER DAVID A. NYWALL P E T E R H . BESTHORN D A N I E L C . BAER P E T E R P. REGIER • FREDERICK R . FRANK.: JESSE R . BACHELDER CHARLES K E S L EUGENE S. TALCOTT JOHN L . TOMLIN BENJAMIN H . ' M O R R I S . CHARLES HIEBSCH OSCAR A. BROWN ABRAHAM PETERS JOSEPH H . GINGRASS GEORGE S. O . SMITH WILLIAM E . CAIN HARRY L . GRIGGS JOHN A. LESHBR EMERSON B . W E L L S CHARLES A. WELLS LA VELLE C . HICKS L E O N C . AMEND EDGAR W . INGRAM WILLIAM H . ANDERSON .... CHARLES D . HICKOK WILLIAM KIMBALL
303 303 303 303 303 303 307 307 321 322 326 336 343 346 346 358 361 362 364 366 368 378 383 399 399 400 415 416 418 420 420 424 433 433 434 435 439
LODGE REPRESENTATIVES.
Smithton No. 1.—PAUL
M . MARTIN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Leavenworth No. 2.—CARL JENSEN, M . , proxy for S. W.; CHARLES R . MOORE, J . W . Wyandotte No. 3.—BENJAMIN
F . HOLMES, M . ; THOMAS B . W E B B , S . W . ;
DAVID H . VANCE, J. W.
Kckapoo No. i.—SAMUEL J. W.
A. ELLERMAN, M . , proxy, for S. W. and
1924-25.
GRAND
Lavirence No. 6.—ARTHUR
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
11
E . HUDDLESTON, proxy for M.; FRANK M .
HoLLiDAY, S. W., proxy for J. W. Union No. 7.—FLOYD E . WILEY, M . ; JAMES E . VANDERVORT, S . W . ; JAMES SANDERLIN, J. W. Rising
Sun No. 8.—LINDLEY
L . LEFLER, proxy for M.;
CLAUD F .
YOUNG, J. W., proxy for S. W. Acacia No. 9.—JOHN S. W.; King
H . PARKER, M . ; CHARLES V. HUGHES, proxy for
HARVEY WALKER, J. W.
Solomon No. 10.—WARREN
E . AKERS, M . ; D A N I E L REILLY,
S. W.; WAYLAND W . BENNETT, J. W . Jewell No. 11.—LOWELL
R . HONDERICK, M . , proxy for J. W.;
BURT
CLUSTER, proxy for S. W. Emporia No. i 2 . — A L B E R T H . THOMAS, M . ; ROBERT H . BEACH, S . W . ; FRED J. BROWN, J. W . Nemaha No. 13.—BRYAN
J. CLEMENS, S. W . , proxy for M. and J, W.
Oskaloosa No. H.—EDWARD
W . CLARKE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Great Bend No. 15.—E. EARLE BONDURANT, M . , proxy for J. W.; P A U L KELLER, proxy for S. W. Lafayette No. 16.—DWIGHT
E . COOK, M . , proxy for S. W.; FRANK A.
BLAKSLEE, J. W . Topeka No. 17.—GEORGE W. MCCLELLAND, proxy for M.; PERCY L . R E E D , J. W., proxy for S. W. Ottawa No. 18.—PAUL R . GARRISON, M . ; F R E D A. BOUCHER, S. W.; LOUIS C . MATHIS, J. W. Olathe No. 19.—HERBERT E . JULIEN, M . ; HARVEY C . LIVERMORE, proxy for S. W.; SAMUEL C . FERGUSON, proxy for J. W. Circleville No. 20.—JAMES
G . BLACKFORD, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
Valley Falls No. 21.—DALE H . CARMEAN, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Palmyra No. 23.—ARTHUR
0 . REMINGTON, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J.W. Osage Valley No. 21,.—CLAUDE
C . PATTERSON, M . , proxy for S. W.
and J. W. Longton No. 26.—MARION Neosho No. 27.—FRANCIS
M . MILLER, proxy for M., S. W. and.J. W. E . RANSOME, M . , proxy for J. W.; WILLIAM
A. HARRIS, S . W . Eldora No. 28.—CLYDE Pacific No. 29.—JOHN
R . ODELL, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. H . OSBORNE, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Towanda No. 30.—IVAN
E . KULLMANN, M . ; NAPOLEON L . R E E D ,
proxy for S. W.; IRVING A. OTTIN, J. W.
Arcana No. 31.—JOHN
N . CASE, M . , proxy for S. W . a n d J. W.
Auburn No. 32.—WILLIAM
DICKSON, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Havensville No. Si.—LOTA
L . M C K E E , M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
12
PROCEEDINGS
Paola No. 37.—LUTHER
OF THE
February.
A. MERKER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
lola No. 38.—LEO N . GISH, M . , proxy for J . W.; CLARK C . THOMAS,' proxy for S. W. ; . . . . Seneca No. 39.—NED
C . MATHEWS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
DeSoto No. iO.—RoY
H. TAYLOR, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Holton No. It2.—ISAAC O . ARMBL, , M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Nickerson
No. i.S.—FRANK
W . KOONS, M . , proxy for S. W.;
FRANK
A. WOCKNITZ, proxy for J. W. Easton No. iS.—DEAN
G . ERHAKT, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Mackey No. i8.—WILLIAM
C . STUTZ, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
Nine Mile No. U9.—THOMAS J. BOONE, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Lake No. 50.—CLARENCE
C . FARNSWORTH, proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. Orient No. 5i.—WILLIAM S. W.;
P. ROOT, M . ; CHESTER E . JOSS, proxy for
CHESTER L . WOODINGTON, J. W.
Pottawatomie No. 52.—GROVER
C . URBANSKY, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Wetmore No. 53'.—LBB JENKINS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Shawnee No. 5U.—CLYDE
L . CURRY, M . ; MAURICE W . BARTLESON,
S. W.; FRED A. MITCHELL, J. W. Spring Hill No. 56.—VERNON
T . NICHOLSON, proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. McCracken
No. 58.—BENJAMIN
P . STEINSHOUEK,
M . ; HERMAN G .
PRATT, S . W . ; SILAS H . SULTZER, J. W. Sallville No. 59.—JOHN W . JOHNSON, M . ; THOMAS E . MCCURRY, proxy for S. W.; H . FRANK DUVAL, proxy for J . W. Salina No. 60.—WILLIAM
H . COST, M . ; . SAMUEL M . BOND, S . W . ;
VICTOR H . B . NORDLUND, J. W. LaCygne No. 61.—NICHOLAS J. CLASSEN, M . , proxy for J. W.; EUGENE SHEETS, S . W . Ridgeway No. 62.—WILSON R . COFFMAN, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W. Adams No. 63.—JAMES B . DRAPER, M . , proxy for J. W.; CLARENCE GORE, S. W . WathenaNo. 6i.—ERNEST R . NELSON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Burlington No. 66.—CLARENCE H . W H I T E , M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Frankfort No. 67.—DAVID W . LUDWICK, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Hiram No. 68.—CLAUDE C . ATWELL, M . ; WINSTON Z . M C K E A N , proxy for S. W.; JOSEPH F . SEYMOUR, proxy for J. W. Carbondale No. 70.—JOSHUA B . HEWITT, proxy for M., S. W. and J . W. Chetopa No. 73.—HENRY
MCCORMICK, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Mystic Tie No. 7^.—RALPH B . VARNER, M . ; STANLEY E . AYERS, S . W . ; GEORGE H . SPILLMAN, J. W.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
'
13
Delta No. 77.—ERVIN E . LAKE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Corinthian No. 79.—WILLIAM
A. HAWKS, M . , proxy for J. W.; WYATT
C. W I L K I N , S . W . Zeredatha No. 80.—EDWARD Doric No. S3.—CRILEY
D . FORNEY, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
E . CORY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. Wi
Jefferson No. 8i.—~J. HARRY RILEY, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Sunflower No. S6.—BERTWIN FURNAS, M . ; CHARLES I. MORRIS, S . W . ; SAMUEL J. FALLEY, J. W. Mankato No. 87.—ROBERT
J. HANNA, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Eureka No. 88.—HARRY
D . EVANS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Home No. 89.—CHARLES
E . DRUMM, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Golden Rule No. 90.—COLLINS
A. ZIMMERMAN, M . ; JAMES H . MURRELL,
proxy for S. W.; CLARENCE E . MAUNEY, J. W. • Marysville No. 91.—IRVIN
L . OTTO, M . , proxy for S. W.; ORVILLE M .
WALTON, J. W . Devon No. 92.—HARVEY
FESTUS MILLER, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Girard No. 93.—OSCAR B . WOOLLEY, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Harmony No. 9Jf.—IRVIN M . SPEER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Constellation No. 95.—WALTER C . CANTRALL, M . , proxy for S. W.; WILLIAM 0 . STARNS, proxy for J. W. Delaware No. 96.—FRANK
W . WAHLIN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Patmos No. 97.—LEON L . COUSLAND, proxy for M. and J. W.; HARRY K. LORENZ, S. W. Benevolent No. 98.—JONATHAN E. CRANE, M . ; OLIN R . STROWIG, S . W . ; A. GAIL PREUSS, J. W. Wichita No. 99.—FRED
W . SMITH, M . ; JOHN H . DOWNING, S . W . ;
CHARLES M . ULSH, J. W. Prudence No. 100.—FLOYD
W . BELT, J . W . , proxy for M.; JOHN W .
HAMILTON, S , W . Keystone No. 102,—WILLIAM
O . SAVAGE, proxy for M.;
JOHN R .
LADLIB, proxy for S. W. and J. W. Frontier No. lOlt.—DAVID
J. WELCH, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
Fidelity No. 106.—SWANSEY J. W. Fortitude No. 107.—GEORGE
E . ANDERSON, S. W . , proxy for M. and ' S; BAKER, M . ; EARL J. EVANS, S . W . ;
LESTER F . SMITH, J. W . Hesperian No. 111.—ANTHONY Blue Valley No. 112.—JOHN
L . R U F F , J. W., proxy for M. and S. W.
F . HOYT, proxy for M. and S. W.; WILLIAM
M. DRUNN, proxy for J. W. St. John's No. 113.—JOSEPH
D . FELL, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Advance No. i i ^ . — H E R M A N L . HAASIS, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
14
•
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Excelsior No. 115.—JOHN P. WELLS, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W. Muscotah No. 116.—JOHN C . WASSON, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Parsons No. 117.—SYLVESTER L . BLAIR, M . , proxy for J. W.; ROBERT F . H U M E , proxy for S. W. Altoona No. IIS.^JOHU J. SHARPLBSS, M . , proxy for S . W . and J . W. Cherokee No. 119.—WILLIAM W . MALCOLM, M . , proxy for S. W.; OTTO B . HOWELL, proxy for J. W.
Halcyon No. 120.—ARTHUR J. STARR, M . , proxy for S. W. and J . W. Clifton No. jf2^.—JOHN RITTBR, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Republic No. 123.—GEORGE G . NUTTER, M . , proxy for J. W.; WALTER H . POLLEY, S . W .
Cawker City No. 125.—PAUL D . SIMPSON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Meridian No. 126.—WILLIAM R . FANCHER, M . , proxy for J. W.; ALBERT E. CLOUGH, proxy for S. W. Palestine No. 127.—HENRY E . PATTON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Munden No. 128.—GEORGE W . STRNAD, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Belleville No. i^9.—IRA X. KING, M . , proxy for S. W.; JOHN DAVIS, proxy for J. W. Equity No. 131.—CLARENCE A. Low, M., proxy for J. W. Carson No. 132.--RVE
L. SLATER, M . ; FRANCIS M . STEWART, S . W . ;
D A N I E L S . OTEY, J. W . . Crescent No. 133.—WALTER
C . FESLER, M . ; CLARENCE E . LUSK, J. W.,
proxy for S! W. Clay Center No. 13U.—EMIL KRATOCHVIL, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W. Lenexa No. 135.—HIRAM S. SIEGRIST, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Vesper No. 136.—JOHN I. STOUGH, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W. Reno No. HO.—CHARLES
V.'BROUGHTON, M . ; EDWIN P. JONES, S . W .
IVAN W . JONES, J. W . Newton No. 11,2.—ALVIN H . CLINE, M . ; CHARLES B . MILLHAM, S . W . R O Y C . MOLZEN, J. W..
Minneapolis
No. H.3.—OLIVER
E . MURDICK, S . W . , proxy for M.
GRAHAM A. LARSON, proxy for J. W.
GileadNo. m.—^OTIS F . HBRSHNER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Mt. Vernon No. 11,5.—MELVIN R . GUARD, S . W . , proxy for M.; R O Y C. BAKER, J. W .
Ellsworth No. 11,6.—JOHN WILLIAM KINCAID, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W. Center No. 11,7.—JOHN L . SCOTT, M . ; B R U C E GRIMES, S . W . ; J E S S E D. SMITH, J. W.
Wa-Keeney No. 11,8.—ARTHUR S . PEACOCK, proxy for M., S. W. and J. w . • •
1924-25.
GRAND
Thayer No. H9.—HARRY
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
15
POWNALL, M . ; EDWIN C . EAGLES, proxy for
S. W.; HARVEY G . LAWRENCE, proxy for J. W. Wellington No. 150.—JAMES Lebo No. 152.—EDWARD
H . STONE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
R . EVANS, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Luray No. 153.—WILLIAM
L . BUNTON, M . , proxy for J. W.;
A. PRATHER, S . W .
CECIL
.
Lincoln No. 15J,.—HAROLD
R . STARBUCK, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J.W. Hope No. 155.—ALEXANDER
K . RADER, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Active No. 158.^-GEORGE
H . RAISH, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Robinson No. 159.—WALTER
R . BUSBNBARK, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Saqui No. ifiO.^EvERETT C. GARRISON, M . , proxy for J. W.; IRA Z. CRAWFORD, proxy for S. W. Alma No. 161.—HAL
G . WEAVER, M . ; RICHARD E . THOES, proxy for
S. W.; FRED A. GERLACK, proxy for J. W. Sabeiha No. 162.—THOMAS J. MEISNER, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W. Greenwood No. 163.—CHARLES
D . PRITCHARD, proxy for M., S. W. and
J.W. Alwood No. 16i.—ALBAN
G . PETERSON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Oxford No. 165.—THOMAS M . COPELAND, M . , proxy for J. W.; CHARLES E . THOMPSON, S. W. Farmers No. 166.—GEORGE
H . HUNGERFORD, proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. Lamed No. 167.—HARRY
M . HALLOWAY, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Blue Rapids No. 169.—RUSSELL
M . HAMILTON, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J.W. Sterling No. 171.—HARRY
E . SUTTON, M . ; GEORGE H . SUTTON, proxy
for S. W.; JOHN L . SILFRIDGE, J. W . McPherson
No. 172.—WILLIAM
T . .VESPER, S . W . , proxy for
M.;
GRANVIL E . HAGSTROM, J. W. Belle Plaine No. 173.—WILBUR
C . MARKLEY, M . ; DENVER C . CUSBY,
S. W.; EARL F . CLARK, J. W . Western Star No. 17i.—NATHAN
J. W H I T E , M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Kirwin No. 175.—WILLIS
M . HOAG, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Prairie Queen No. i 76.—JOHN A. HAWKINSON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J.W. Burr Oak No. J 78.—BERT E . EAKS, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W. Mt. Moriah No. 179.—THOMAS SOLOMON HOGE, S . W .
A. PRATHER, M . , proxy for J. W.;
16
PROCEEDINGS
Bennington No. 180.—JOHN J. W.
OF THE
February,
W . KEPHART, proxy for M., S. W. and
Lenora No. 181.—Ross F. BARBO, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Burrton No. 182.—ROY
G . R . WILLIAMS, M . ; HENRY GRONIGER, proxy
for S. W.; HARVEY T . ZIMMERMAN, J. W. Phillipsburg No. ISlf.—GEORGE
W . COLE, M . , proxy for S. W.; WILLIAM
F. PARKER, proxy for J. W. Hamlin No. 185.—FRED Mountain
R . DORBI, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Slope No. 186.—CHRISTIAN
G . JORN, M . , proxy for J. W.;
OSCAR F . LOHOEFENBR, proxy for S. W. Pittsburg No. 187.—-FRED
M . HOFFMAN, M . ; WALTER HIGDON, S. W . ;
RALPH B . R E E V E S , proxy for J. W. Onaga No. 188.—FRANK
G . FORCE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Newahcuba No. 189.—DONALD .
F . BURLIN, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W.
Henri No. 190.—WILLIAM
C . ALLAN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Walnut Valley No. 191.—HENRY
W . JOHNSON, M . ; EDWIN M . FISHER,
S. W.; JERRY M . HOPPER, proxy for J. W. Royal No. 192.—^PAUL ELLISON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Hartford No. 193.—GEORGE
W . SUGGS, M . , proxy for J. W.;
KUHLMAN, proxy for S. W. Galena No. 19^.—FLOYD Hays No. 195.—FRED
EDWARD
-
M . WILLIAMS, M . , proxy for S". W. and J. W. J. WAGNER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Madison No. 196.—CLYDE
C . G I L E , M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Canton No. 197.—CLOYD C . K A L B , M . ; ALBERT J. MILLER, S . W . ; WALTER J. LINSEMBYER, J. W . . , Norton No. J 5 P . ^ - J O H N D . RASURE, M . , proxy for J. W.; JOHN J. RECHT, proxy for S. W. Anthony No. ZOO.—GEORGE O . ELLIOTT, M . , proxy for S. W.; ERNEST F . WARREN, proxy for J. W. Mulvane No. 201.—WILLIAM
C . ROBINSON, J R . , M . ; HERMAN GARRETT,
S. W.; FRANK A. MCWILLIAMS, proxy for J. W. Sumner No. 203.—SAMUEL Downs No. kojf.—PATRICK
M . BAKER, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. H . DUFFY,
M . ; NATHAN F . WINTERS,
S. W.; JESS W . BLANKENSHIP, proxy for J, W. Harper No. 206.—GEORGE F . MELVIN, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Friendship No. 208.—GEORGE H . THORP, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Brookville No. 209.—ALBERT O . CASZEWSKI, M . , proxy for J. W.; CHARLES G . JOHNSON, proxy for S. W. Olive Branch No. 212.—CHARLES W . JACKSON, M . , proxy for J. W.; ORAL F . GOODELL, S . W .
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
17
Twin Grove No. 213.—-EDWIN G . ARNOLD, J. W., proxy for M.; IRVIN F. BENEST, proxy for S. W. Walnut City No. 215.—EDWARD A. KIRCH, M . , proxy for S. W.. and J. W. Ellinwood No. 217.—WILLIAM BOCK, S. W . , proxy for M. and J. W. Corner Stone No. 219.—JOHN BERWICK, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Lewis No. 220.—ARTHUR F . WELLS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Lebanon No. 221.—^WILEY F . MATHIS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. St. Bernard No. 222.—JOHN
H . CLARK, M . ; EDWARD O . THOMPSON,
S. W.; WILLIAM CARL FAY, J. W. Joppa No. 223.—JOHN
A. DIXON, M.; CHARLES F . S H R I V B R , S . W . ;
VERNON R . D I X , J. W .
Anchor No. 221t.—CHARLES E . KESLBR, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Siloam No. 225'.—BLAKE
0 . BAIRD, M . ; ERNEST R . AMBROSE, S . W . ;
SIDNEY S . JANES, J. W.
Jamestown No. 227.—MATHIAS M . MADISON, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Salem No. 228.—THOMPSON R . SMITH, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Ninnescah No. 230.—OWEN RILEY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Long Island No. 231.—BYRON 0 . JORDAN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Greenleaf No. 232.—MATHEW THINNES, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Garfield No. 235.—ELMER
E . SWENSON, M . ; CLARENCE E . LUNDRY,
proxy for S. W.; CARL A. TOBUREN, proxy for J. W. Temple No. 237.—MURAT H . POWELL, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Linwood No. 2i.l.—HOWARD W . HOWSMAN, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Miltonvale No. 2If2.—MARTIN L . ALBERTSON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Peace No.2Jf3.—A. DAVID FOX, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Marmalon No. 2Jf5.—EJNAR 0 . L. HAFF, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W. Tyrian No. 2^6.—Louis M. TRISSELL, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Chase No. 2i.7.^3oHN A. MCFARLAND, proxy for M.; CHESTER G . HEDGES, S . W . ; ROBERT R . BARNGROVER, J. W .
Scottsville No. 21t9.—MiLFORD F. GRINSTAFF, M . , proxy for.S. W. and J. W. Galva No. 251.—WILLIAM E . TOLAND, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Stafford No. 252.—HERBERT
P. LOWE, M . ; ALVIA L E E SOICE, S . W . ;
S. FLOYD PEACOCK, J. W.
Oakley No. 253.—ROBERT H . VAWTER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Ionic No. 25Jf.—JOHN W . LILL, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Lyra No. 256.—FRANK L . LANDON, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
18
PSOCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Morton No. 258.—PHILIP H . TREXLER, M . ; OSCAR S. PIPKIN, S . W . ; HARVEY S . MCINTOSH, proxy for J. W. Mulberry No. 261.—CHARLES
B . BRAYMAN, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Attica No. 262.—ALBERT
EARL ROSS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Logan No. 26!t.—KERCK
A. HOWARD, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Kilwinning
No. 265.—ARCHIE
RAY EARLYWINE, M . , . proxy for S. W.
and J. W. ML Zion No. 266.—HALL
H . THORNBURGH, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Moline No. 267.—^ROY CROFT, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W. Bourbon No. 268.—RODNEY
S. BOATWRIGHT, proxy for M.;
JOHN
H; BOWERS, proxy for S. W. and J. W. Mistletoe No. 269.—LLOYD Armourdale
BISHOP, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
No. 271.—HAROLD
V. BUMGARTNER, M . ; CHARLES W .
JOHNSON, S. W . ; HAROLD N . NICHOLS, proxy for J. W. Kaw No. 272.^-¥RANK
P . STRICKLAND, J R . , M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Black Diamond No. 271,.—PETER
H . W H I T E , proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. Webb No. 275.—BOISE
R . MURPHY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J." W.
Window, No. 276.—CHESTER
O . COCHRAN, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Cosmos No. 278.—SOLOMON A. HEMPLE, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W. Barney No. 279.—JOHN
H . SCHIERBCK, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Alpha No: 282.—MAURICE
A. T E E D , M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Preston No. 283.—VERNON
H . CASH, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Anthem No. 2SJf.—-JAMES B . MORRIS, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W. Argonia No. 285.—LLOYD
B . MITCHELL, M . , proxy for S. W.;
HARRY
G. HADLER, J. W. Oak No. 287.—EARL
GUISE, M . , proxy for S'. W. and J. W.
Cyrus No. 288.—HOMER
G . BEARNS, S . W . , proxy for M.;
ALFRED
A. PETERSON, proxy for J. W. Emerald No. 289.—JOHN
R . HUTTON, M . ; RALPH E . THORPE, S. W . ;
FRANCIS L . PIERCE, proxy for J. W. Paradise No. 290.—JOHN Beulah No. 291.—ROY
HILGERS, SR., M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. S. THOMAN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Glasco No. 292.—WILLIAM Comanche No. 295.—KARL
N . PILCHBR, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. G . EHRLICH, proxy for M., S. W. and J . W.
Highland No. 296.—ORIOL
F . NEWTON, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
Apollo No. 297.—ROBERT
G . MARKELL, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
Samaria No. 298.—ANDY
OF KANSAS.
D . KLOTZ, M . , proxy for J. W.;
19 HERMAN
C. WALTER, proxy for S. W. CableNo. 299.—ORIN
F . CLAPP, M . , proxy for J. W.; AZEM L . M I N O R ,
S. W. Fargo No. 300.—FRANK Hamilton
L . BOWLBY, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
No. 301.—HAROLD
BOTTOMLEY, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Gove City No. 302.—-JAMES B ; CHBNOWETH, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Albert Pike No. 303.—WALTER
L . ANDERSON, M . ; K E N N E T H M . K I E R ,
S. W.; PERRY D . BAKER, J. W. Avon No. 305.—CASS
JONES, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
St. Thomas No. 306.—HAL B . MCDOUGAL, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Kansas No. 307.—BYRON
W . OLIVER, M . ; ORIN H . PATTISON, proxy
for S. W.; VICTOR C . KINGSBURY, J. W. Syracuse No. 309.—FRANCIS Naphtali No. 310.—LINUS
M . CARTER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. J. WARNER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Hancock No. 311.—-WILLIAM
A. WEIKAMP, proxy for M.;
CLEMENT
H. WRIGHT, S. W.; CLEVELAND WILLIAMS, J. W. Santa Fe No. 312.—JEPTHA
C . MCCOY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Severance No. 313.—HENRY
L. CORBET, S. W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
Virginia No. 315.—CHARLES
J. JOHNSON, M : , proxy for J. W.; HOWARD
S. TAYLOR, proxy for S. W. Coolidge No. 316.—WILLIAM
P . PORTER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J W.
Norcatuf No. 317.—CLINTON
E . CARPER, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
Wallace No. 318.—LAWRENCE
0 . STANLEY, M . , proxy for S. W.. and
J. W. Norwich No. 319.—VICTOR
M . D O Z E , ' M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Vermillion No. 320.—ELTON
W . HYBSKMANN, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Goodland No. 321.—LEONARD
A. THOMPSON, proxy for M. and J. W.;.
PAUL F . SODEN, proxy for S. W. Ben Hur No. 322.—VERNON
L . GREGORY, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Oneida No. 323.—WILLIAM
S . TRASK, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Caney No. 32Jf.—DELBERT
BROOKS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
La Harpe No. 325.—WILLIAM
T . SNODGRASS, proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. Horton No. 326.—BBARL
CONNER, M . ; GEORGE P. GRAESER, S . W . ;
J O H N R . R E E D , J. W. Hoyt No. 327.—FORREST C. HUMMER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
20
PROCEEDINGS
Arcadia No. 329'.—JOSEPH
OF THE
February.
E . HOLMBERG, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Roh Morris No. 332.—CLARENCE
E . SCOTT, M . , proxy for S. W-. and
J. W. Rosedale No. 333.—GEORGE D . JAMESON, M . , proxy for S.W. and J.W. Oak Hill No. 33Jf.—WILHELM F . GUNTER, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Formoso No. 336.—DAVID
A. NYWALL, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Frederick No. 337.—PETER
F . WiiENS, M., proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Lane No. 339.—BENJAMIN F . CARTER, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Leoti No. 3JfO.—G. DONALD DICKEY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Holyrood No. 31^3.—CHARLIE PARKHURST, M . , proxy for S. W. and
•J.W. Ashlar No. SU.—WALTER
A. ARMSTRONG, M . , proxy for S. W.;
FRED
C. OTTO, proxy for J. W. Edna No. 3U5.—J. IRVIN WESTER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. WMoundridge No. 31,6.—EDWIN
P. DURST, M . ; ROY M . SMITH, S . W . ;
WALTER P . REGIER, J. W. Spivey No. 31,7.—JAMES
T . INGRAM, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Hoxie No. 31,8.—AUBERT
J. MOWRY, M . , proxy for J. W.;
ALBERT
J. STEINSHOUER, proxy for S. W. Narka No. 31,9.—OSCAR E . HAMILTON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Horace No. 352.—WILLARD
E . FERRELL, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
Marquette No. 353.—WiLLis H . HUNT, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Summerjield No. 351,.—JAMES
M . KENDELL, J. W., proxy for M. and
S. W. Chautauqua No. 355.—ALBERT
N . SHAVER, proxy for M., S. W. and
• J.W. Wellsville No. 356.—LUCKY
W . HOSTETTER, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J.W. Alta
Vista No. 357.—JOHN
M . HYDE, M . , proxy for S. W.;
PAGE
JOHNSON, J. W. Turon
No. 358.—FREDERICK
R . FRANK, proxy for M. and J. W.;
WILLIAM P . FRANK, proxy for S. W. Sylvan
Grove No. 359.—FREDERICK
C . LARSEN, M . , proxy for S. W.
and J. W. .. Jennings No. 360.—CARL
L . ERICKSON, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
Cuba No. 362.—Louis HOSTINSKY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Powhattan No. 363.—DANIEL
A. ZIMMERMAN, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J.W. Valley Center No. 36U.—LESLIE E . LOXLEY, M . ; LOUIS B . MUMA, S. W.; HARRY H . SULLARD, J. W.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
21
Baling No. 365.—JOHN E . PETERS, M . , proxy for J. W.; FRED M . SLOAN, proxy for S. W. Bonner Springs No. 366.—MARK E. KENTON, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Stohrville No. 368.—BENJAMIN H . MORRIS, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. . Roger E. Sherman No. 369.—CHARLES C . MCMURRAY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Maple Hill No. 370.—HARRY G . MCPHERSON, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Macksville No. 371.—JOSEPH
F . DEMAIN, M . ; ROLLO G . ULCH, proxy
for S. W.; IRA S. FORMAN, proxy for J. W. Denison No. 372.—PAUL C . HILL, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Morrill No. 373.—RAY H . MICKEY, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Dwight No. 37k.—WALTER
L . OLSON, M . ; B E N F . MEYERS, S . W . ;
KARL S . DAY, J. W .
Grand View No. 376.—JOHN J. MEAD, M . ; HARRY M . THOMPSON^ proxy for S. W.; RALPH L. HAGENBUSH, proxy for J. W. Waldron No. 377.—FRED ZBLLER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Zenda No. 378.—ROY B . HARDER, M . , proxy for S. W.; D E E RiCKARD, J. W. Wilsey No. 382.—EARL W . RAY, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. McDonald No. 383.—HARRY D . HARRISON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Protection No. 38i.—LAWRENCE A. PEACOCK, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Piper No. 385.—ARTHUR J. GRESTY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. EmmettNo. 387.^CLARKE S. POOL, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. SpearviUe No. SSS.^—ERNEST L . OGLE, S. W . , proxy for M. and J. W. Natoma No. 390.—EVERT A. RUGGELS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Sylvia No. 391.—OLIFF H . JACKSON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Mayetta No. 393.—EDSON J. LUNGER, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Coats No. 39It.—BARNEY
H . DINKINS, M . ; CLAUDE J. DURKEE, S . W . ;
GILBERT J. W E E D , proxy for J. W.
Wakefield No. 396.—VERNON
S . ENGEL, M . , proxy for J. W.; ELMER
D. MALE, S . W . Lindsborg No. 397.—EUGENE
E . EBLING, M . ; CARL E . GUNNERSON,
proxy for S. W.; FRANK M . SHIELDS, J. W. Mullinville No. 399.—LAVERN
KIRBY, proxy for M.; ABRAHAM P E T E R S ,
proxy for S. W.; JOSEPH H . GINGRASS, proxy for J. W. Melody No. i.00.—GEORGE S . 0 . SMITH, proxy for M.; FRANK M . CRAWFORD, S. W . , proxy for J . W .
22
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Latham No. JfOl.—JOHN CLARK, M . ; J. EDMONDSTON RANKIN, S . W . ; WILLIAM E , CRABTREE, J. W. ' Wakarusa No. ItOH.—WILLIAM W . CARNINE, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Saint Francis No. JfOJt.—VANCE R . BRENDLINGER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Kensington
No. Jf05.—EUGENE
C . WOLFE, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Hugoion No. i06.—THOMAS
B . PORTER, J R . , M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W . Arma No. U08.—JOHN L . GILLARY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Haviland
No. JfOO.—JAMES G . BENNETT, M . ; JESSE O . SCANTLIN,
S. W.; PHILIP H . PHILLIPS, J R . , J. W. Climax No. 1^11.—HAROLD CROFT, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Wilmore No. ^ i 2 . — G E O R G E T . BROWN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Ensign No. U13.—WILLIAM B. JONES, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Perry No. U15.—WILLIAM E . CAIN, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. King David No. ^ i 6 . — H A R R Y L . GRIGGS, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Sharon Springs No. i.17.—DONALD
B . DUPHORNE, proxy for M. and
J. W.; GEORGE E . WARD, proxy for S. W. CodellNo. Itl8.—GEORGE
W . WATKINS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Delia
KELLER,
No.
^19.—JOHN
M . , proxy for
S. W.;
ROY W .
LEWELLING, proxy for J. W. Lecompton No. Jt20.—FRED H . NACE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Harveyville No. ^21.—ARCHIE
L . HODGSON, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Selden No. i23.—LEE
R . CLARK, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
Claflin No. A2i.—HENRY
C . P I E L , proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Turner No. U^5.—^WILBY R . B U I E , S. W . , proxy for M. and J. W. Cunningham
No. i27.—ROY
E . HUFFMAN,
M . ; WILBUR A. LASH,
S. W.; WALTER H . BROWN, proxy for J. W. Burdick
No. ^29.—E. DAVID LINDE, M . , proxy for S. W.;
WILLIAM
ATKINSON, J. W. Goff No. ItSO.—VALENTINE HAKT, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W. Deerfield No. .432.—WILLIS E . BENJAMIN, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Bestor G. Brown No. U33.—JAMES A. GLOVER, M . ; CLYDE S . SHELLEY, S. W.; WILLIAM J. BAUERLE, J. W. Rosalia No. i3Jf.—WILLIAM
H . ANDERSON, proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. Ulysses No. US5.—JAMBS A. CARTER, M . ; R O Y B . CARTER, S. W . ; CHARLES D . HICKOCK, proxy for J. W.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
23
Overland Park No. ^36.—ROBERT G . COX, S. W . , proxy for M. and J. W. West Gate No. ^38.—JOSEPH SCHROEDER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Beaumont No. i39.—FRANK W . SQUIER, M . , proxy for J. W.; CHARLES S. WILCOX, proxy for S. W.
RECAPITULATION.
Grand. Officers present 15 PastJ^Elective^Grand Officers present..... 12 PastjMasters^present 194 (Exclusive of any Grand or Past Elective Grand Officers or District Deputy Grand Masters.) Representatives of Lodges 377 (Exclusive of any Grand or Fast Elective Grand Officers, District Deputy Grand Masters, or Past Masters.) District^Deputy Grand Masters 57 Total representation in Grand Lodge 655 Grand Representatives present Number of Lodges represented Number of Lodges not represented Total number of Lodges on rolls
47 332 106 438
Fraternally submitted, ROBERT H . MONTGOMERY, P H I L I P EUGENE STOTLER,
HENRY L . GAMES,
GEORGE W . MCCLELLAND, ALVA L . SWEARINGEN,
Committee.
24
February,
PROCEEDINGS OF THE
STANDING C O M M I T T E E S .
The M.'. W.'. Grand^Master announced the appointment of the^following revised list of Committees: On Credentials.—ROBERT H . MONTGOMERY, N O . 63, Oswego; PHILIP EUGENE STOTLER, NO. 3, (residence, R. F. D. No. 8, Bethel); HENRY L . GAMES, NO. 269, Conway Springs; GEORGE W . MCCLELLAND, No. 17, Topeka; ALVA L . SWEARINGEN, No. 272, Kansas City. On Reports of Grand Officers.—BEN S. PAULEN, N O . 95, Fredonia; JAY B . K I R K ^ N O . 38, lola; J. FORREST AYRES, NO. 282, Greenleaf; CHARLES W . J J M I L L E R , J R . , N O . 195, Hays;
JACOB LUND, N O . 16,
Manhattan. On Finance and Property.—EARL T . PYLE, N O . 134, Clay Center; HOMER B . PINK, NO. 225, Topeka; [MOSES H . COLE, NO. 206, Harper; EDGAR W . INGRAM, N O . 433, Wichita; LUCIAN L . CONSTANT, N O . 173,
Belle Plaine. On Jurisprudence.—ELRICK C . COLE, N O . 15, Great Bend; JOHN MgCuLLAGH, N O . 194, Galena; CHARLEY B . ERSKINE, N O . 283, Cimarron;JjoHN M. KINKEL, NO. 140, (residence, Topeka). L On Chartered Lodges and Lodges U. D.—GEORGE 93, Girard; WILLIAM NELSON, N O . 90, Topeka. On Correspondence.^-AIJBERT
F . BEBZLEY, No.
K . WILSON, No. 51, Topeka.
On Necrology.—OTTO R . SOUDERS, NO. 99, Wichita.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
25
GRAND MASTER'S ADDRESS.
M.-. W.-. ELMER F . STRAIN delivered the following address,' which, on order of R.-. W.-. CHARLES A. LOUCKS, Deputy Grand Master, was referred to the Committee on Reports of Grand Officers: To the Most Worshipfvl Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free.and Accepted Masons of Kansas: BRETHREN:
We assemble in Annual Communication this morning as have our brethren for sixty-nine years, to counsel together: to renew our collective inspiration for the wonderful work of Masonry; and to concentrate our united judgment upon the necessary business, as well as the deeper things which are of vital import to the Institution. It is well for us, as we come to the higher places on the trail of life, to pause and look backward; to see where we have been walking, and note the beauty spots we could not see in passing; to rejoice at the triumphs over evil and error; to regret taking the wrong fork of the trail a while back when we so well knew the right one; and to gather inspiration for the eflfort before us, no matter where the road may lead. In this opening hour it is profitable that we visualize the scenes following the dawn of the new era which gave us the true GOD, and the higher ideals upon an unshakable foundation; to recall the pillar of fire and cloud by which the Great Jehovah led the chosen people; and to realize that His goodness and guidance has never failed Christian people and nations, nor can it. The failure of the tribes of earth's history is directly traceable to human weakness and disobedience of GOD'S law and direction.
That leadership is weak indeed which cannot find in the experience of the ages ample direction for our thought and action upon the road before us. Light is the desire of Masonry. Not only for the years of this life, but through the imperishable part of man, so nearly infinite, there may come an illuminating vision of the life to come. In social, civic, state and national life the importance of the individual act and influence was never so great as now. Man is as a swift running stream, tossed thither and yon, not knowing where or why. Would that they might be led to still water and deep thinking. Our structure is laid upon solid rock, and out of the saneness of the past we must find the solution of the future. Two schools of Masonic thought have been mentioned, but the great majority of our students are agreed that the eflfort by so called Masonic societies, to divert Masonry from its original plan, or to add to it, is entirely unworthy of favorable consideration. Our system covers the vital things of life upon which all men agree, and he who comes with alleged improvements knows not of its length or breadth, its height or depth, nor
26
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
of its center and circumference. This propaganda should stimulate our educational program. There is safety and power in knowledge. Our poUcy upon this subject cannot be too broad or aggressive. While it is our wish that the utmost freedom be taken in considering the administrative acts of the year, our hope is equally earnest that the major portion of our thought may bend toward the laying out of the designs for the coming year, that they may conform in every particular with the time tried path of the ages. While we enjoy the good influences and associations of Masonry, and rejoice under our wonderful government, Masonically molded, let us not in complacency anticipate that their perpetuity is beyond the peradventure of a doubt. Be loyal, studious and thoughtful. In state and nation the chief executive lays out a suggested program at the beginning of his term. Our Grand Master is installed in the closing hours with no opportunity to speak to his field men of his plans to carry on, and goes out to a leadership, the demands of which, if conscientiously construed, are almost beyond the possibility of any business man's life. Commendation or condemnation will scarcely affect the work of the closing year. Co-operation, appreciation, realization of responsibihty, and well directed aggression on the part of lodge officers here assembled will make the new year properly productive. The call to such a service is made for one who will need it as he shall lead us, and comes from an experienced and a thankful heart. NECROLOGY.
' In Masonry with its oft told tale of life, death and Immortality, there should be none who have not given thought to the Grim Reaper. His coming is certain, the moment unknown. Let us eack work faithfully upon the designs presented to us, that at his coming our work may be approved and accepted. GOD has been good to our official family, giving them health and strength to meet the call of duty. Two of those who have worn the purple in our Fraternity have been called by the Grand Warden of Heaven to receive their wages,—M.". W.". WATSON M . LAMB, Grand Master in 1888, long a resident of the state of Washington, and remembered only by our older members, died August 13th, and M . ' . W . " . EDWARD W . WELLINGTON, Grand Master in 1907, who passed
away on February 18th, and was buried by the Grand Lodge on the 20th at Ellsworth where he had lived for many years. " N E D " as he was affectionately known has been prominent in Kansas Masonry for a quarter of a century. H e will be long remembered for his zealous work, and kindly disposition. W.'. OTTO R . SOUDERS, Chairman of the Committee on Necrology,
will pay our tribute to the fraternal dead this afternoon. The subject is given a new and significant meaning to your Grand Master, for as the leaves began to fall the great Mason of his family put out on the sea of eternity, in the eighty-second year of a useful life.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
27
INSTALLATION GRAND OFFICERS.
Several of the Grand Lodge officers, not knowing of their selection, were not present for installation at the close of the last Annual Communication, and direction was given that this ceremony be performed in the home lodges of the new officers. The Grand Junior Warden elect, W.". CLAYTON LEHMAN, felt that business demands and other fraternal duties precluded his assuming official responsibility in the Grand Lodge at this time, and declined the office. Whereupon W.'. CHARLES N. FOWLER, Grand Senior Deacon, was selected to fill the vacancy and was installed by Sahna Lodge No. 60, on March 11, M.-.W.'. THOMAS L. BOND presiding.
W.'. FERRIS M . HILL, of Emporia Lodge No. 12
was appointed Grand Senior Deacon to fill the vacancy, and was installed by his home lodge on April 4. Other installations were as follows: Grand Junior Deacon, W.-. PAUL M . MARTIN, by Smithton LodgeNo. 1, March3; Grand Senior Steward, W.-. GEORGE M. COPLIN, by Paola Lodge No. 37, March 17; Grand Junior Steward, W.-. FRANK C. TROUTFETTER, by St. Thomas Lodge No. 306, of Colby, April 4, and the Grand Sword Bearer, W.'. EMERSON B . WELLS of Lecompton, by Orient Lodge No. 51, Topeka, on April 4. OUR MASONIC HOME.
A special report will be made upon this very important subject this evening at 7:15 o'clock, by the President of the Home Board, and it is your duty to hear it. I t may not be out of place here, however, to say that from March 10 to this date the conditions at the Home have been more nearly ideal than at any time in its history. Every member of our Home Family, barring two or three among the older, have given their whole-hearted support to the effort to provide that peace and comfort, spirit and discipline of a great family. Acknowledgment is made of the great help that has come from the loyalty and earnest efforts of our paid workers in carrying forward the ideals of the administration. Silver and gold cannot buy the love and tender care these children of ours must have. It is a genuine pleasure to report that this wonderfully practical work of Masonry is being well and faithfully done. The Home staff are worthy of our most sincere and thankful consideration. It is our hope that the Grand Lodge membership will, during this Communication make, a most careful survey of the plant, its family and its employees, and that you may join in our pride as to all conditions, and especially the family spirit. More time is set aside for this purpose than for any other subject. Use it. COURTESIES EXCHANGED.
Acknowledgment is rriade of courtesies extended by many Grand Jurisdictions, especially in the matter of conferring degrees upon our material. It has been a pleasure to reciprocate in response to all requests. Some of the states will not confer the first degree for other
28
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Grand Jurisdictions, nor will they request the same. It is a safe practice to see that first degrees are conferred promptly after election. Kansas Masonry reflects the spirit of its wonderful people, and will confer on request all degrees and render any other service which will advance our cause or elevate mankind. Regardless of our freedom in the conferral of all courtesy degrees, the Sojourner in confronted with the legal necessity of beginning all over again. In the exactness of our science it is doubtful if an elected candidate should be required to again petition and be the second time elected, except upon a waiver. The legal effect of objection is equivalent to the use of the black cube. Every needed safeguard is available without a petition for advancement. If we are to confer degrees as a courtesy it would seem that we should accept the decision of the jurisdiction properly claiming the material. Under our Law and rulings the subject cannot well be presented for legislation at this time, but it is urged upon this Grand Lodge for consideration. GRAND KEPBESENTATIVES.
Upon proper recommendations, certain changes and additions have been made to the list of Grand Representatives near other Grand Jurisdictions, and our own. Full details in the Grand Secretary's report. SPECIAL COMMUNICATIONS.
The Proceedings of the year will show an unusually large number of Special Communications called for the purpose of laying cornerstones, dedications, etc. The Grand Master has personally presided at all but three. Fidelity Lodge No. 106 of Eureka, and Douglass Lodge No. 151, could have had the head of the Fraternity lay their corner-stones, but instead of asking the Grand Lodge to handle as is indicated in the Monitor, they requested the appointment of local Past Masters as Special Deputies. Their pleas were granted. The other ceremony was at Wellington at a time when most of the Grand Lodge official family was at Portland, Maine, attending a Masonic meeting. Two applications to lay corner-stones on Sunday were received, both for Church buildings. Doubtless these bodies were unfamiliar with the ceremony, and did not appreciate that it violates their own as well as our ethics. These two applications were of course declined in line with the well established policy of limiting Sunday Communications to funeral and similar work. The minutes of these Special Communications will be carried in the Proceedings, and interested members are so referred for details. SPECIAL DISPENSATIONS.
This has been a banner year for Special Dispensations, fifty-one being issued for the conferral of degrees out of time on account of leaving the jurisdiction and usually the Grand Jurisdiction. I t seemed better to grant the requests than to call upon our willing neighbors to do the
GRAND
1924-25.
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
29
work for us. In each case the legal fee was required and the brother obliged to comply with all but time requirements; thirty-nine for electing and installing officers to fill vacancies for which no charge was made. Thirty-nine lodges applied for authority to hold new elections under the mandate of Grand Lodge, two were excused showing that their By-Laws provided for but one Stated in December. The regular fee was collected from the remaining thirty-seven. All returned Dispensations and $445.00 have been placed in the hands of the Grand Secretary. The situation of these thirty-seven lodges, and many who this year applied for authority to hold elections at other than the legal time and were denied, make it desirable to briefly stress this subject. The suggestion has often been made that Stated Communications be selected in the first and third weeks where two Stateds are held, to avoid confusion as to election and installation, also conflicts with the December holidays. These recommendations having been approved, is recognized as our policy. Govern yourselves accordingly. DISTRICT MEETINGS.
The district meeting, with a Deputy Grand Master for each district, is abundantly justified. The esoteric work is better and more uniform from year to year. Through these meetings the fundamentals and plan of Masonry are carried direct to the Craft. Discussion of perplexing problems, and varying manner of meeting and overcoming difficulties is of great and mutual benefit. The privilege of visitation is magnified, and the social side of the brotherhood is advanced. But the lodges in many instances do not properly respond to the opportunity provided. Grand Lodge officers attend these meetings at a considerable sacrifice, and outside of the local lodge, get opportunity to meet but few of the brethren of the district, and too often but a small number of the lodge ofiicers. Let us make 1925 the banner year. That all may have due notice, the date and place for this year's meetings are given below. You are admonished to take immediate and necessary steps to make these dates Masonic holidays, with a substantial attendance from each lodge. Oist. 25 20 65 14 41 56 70 74 51 46 68 48 10 8
Date. 3-30 3-31 4-1 4-2 4-6 4-7 4-8 4-9 4-6 4-7 4-8 4-9 4-13 4-14
Place. Manhattan. Frankfort. Onaga. Holton. Hutchinson. Haviland. Liberal. Ulysses. Oakley. Wa-Keeney. Wilson. Sterling. Columbus. Fort Scott.
Dist. 15 9' 42 37 36 29 66 19 2 1 62 57 52 58
Date. 4-15 4-16 4-20 4-21 4-22 4-23 4-20 4-21 4-22 4-23 4-27 4-28 ,4-29 4-30
Place. lola. Colony. Norwich. Conway Springs Wichita. Dexter. Greeinleaf. Seneca. Hiawatha. Wathena. Lewis. Dodge City. Deerfield. Scott City.
FBOCEEDIl
p ')ist. Dale. 60 23 59 34 38 55 44 30 26 53 71 54 31 49 63 16 18 13 22 21 73 12 11 64
9-21 9-22 9-23 9-24 9-21 9-22 9-23 9-24 9-25 9-28 9-29 9-30 10-1 9-28 9-29 9-30 10-1 10-5 10-6 10-7 10-8 10-12 10-13 10-14
Place. Ottawa. . Neosho Falls. Eurekai Augusta. Formoso. Kirwin. Norton. • Belleville. Wakefield. Saint Francis. Colby. Hoxie. Sylvan Grove. Arcadia. Oswego. Chanute. Coffeyville. Baldwin. Carbondale. Topeka. Dwight. Atchison. Whiting. Winchester.
VGS
OF THE
Disl. 3 67 45 39 32 33 35 50 47 28 24 17 7 6 5 4 69 75 43 72 27 40 61
Dale. 10-15 10-12 10-13 10-14 10-15 10-19 10-20 10-21 10-22 10-26 10-27 10-28 10-26 10-27 10-28 10-29 11-2 11-3 11-4 11-2 11-3 11-4 11-5
February
Place. Leavenworth. Jamestown. Stockton. Minneapolis. Salina. McPherson. Newton. Great Bend. Ness City. Howard. Fredonia. Elgin. LaCygne. Louisburg. Shawnee. Kansas City. Wilmore. Medicine Lodge, Harper. North Topeka. Emporia. Hope. Wilsey.
LECTIJEERS.
Our distinguished Lecturers, W.-. Brothers HARVEY 0 . DAVIS and STANFORD M . SMART, have taught the Work for many years, faithfully, kindly and with unfailing exactness. Their helpfulness to the lodges and to the brethren has endeared them to us all. During my four years in the Grand Lodge family my observation has probably covered the work of these good brethren more closely than any other officer, except the Grand Secretary, and it is a real pleasure to express our appreciation of their service. GRAND ORATOR.
The meat of Masonry is in its wonderful lectures. No lodge should be opened or closed without the giving of a lecture or a,part of a lecture. If this sytem were intelligently followed in every lodge a great advance in the intellectual and Masonic morale would be noted. To comply with our traditions, and because it is profitable for us, the oration has come to be an important part of our annual program. Our friend and brother, RICHARD J. HOPKINS, will bring us the message as a special order at 1:30 o'clock P. M. today. DOMESTIC RELATIONS.
New Lodges. Charters for lodges at Enterprise, Beaumont and Kansas City, authorized at our last Annual Communication, were promptly executed, and Special Deputy Grand Masters were commissioned to constitute
1924-25.
GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS.
31
them. These units were set to work on March 13, 14, and 22, 1924, respectively, and all reports indicate satisfactory progress and prospects. Letters of Dispensation have been issued for eight new lodges during the year, and the general outlook for all of them is favorable. Full reports of their operation are in the hands of the Committee on Chartered Lodges and Lodges U. D. for consideration and recommendation. All details will be found iri the Grand Secretary's report. Lost Charters: Freeport Lodge No. 389 burned out again this year, and among the losses was the first copy of their original charter. A second copy has been furnished and the brethren are entitled to the sympathy and encouragement of all the Craft and particularly the strong lodges near at hand. Rosedale Lodge No. 333 also received a copy of their charter to take the place of the original which was lost. Although it should be unnecessary it is again urged that the remaining lodges send their charters to the Grand Secretary for safe deposit in our fire-proof building. The Grand Lodge furnishes a properly framed and certified copy without charge, except where restoration also is necessary. Let all representatives note this and handle at the first meeting of their lodge if it has not already been done. GROWTH.
Our numerical progress has been proportionate to the times and activities of the lodges. A total of 4,095 have been raised during the year. The decrease from death, dimission, etc., amounted to 2,550, leaving a net gain of 2,776, our total membership at the close of 1924 being 78,041. Our great concern is not so much in numbers, but in the implanting of the precepts of Masonry. The making of real Masons and not mere members. The building into every life the fundamentals of manhood and the principles of this speculative science of ours. The development in all men of those' cardinal virtues and correct tenets, which will give them the mastery of themselves, and the ability to serve their fellows, our country and our GOD. The elimination of all political methods in our lodges and the substitution therefor, open frankness and intelligent consideration of all questions. The selection of officers by the " Who best can work or best agree" method, starting them at the bottom and working them regularly through the chairs so that when they become Worshipful Master their attitude may be devout and humble and their service a masterful one. Constantly considering all men as our brothers, and exercising a beneficent influence in our communities. STANDARDS.
In the main our lodges have operated earnestly and efficiently in maintaining the moral and ethical standards of Masonry, and the adopted Work is quite well and generally followed. Men are human,
32
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
but often err so inhumanly, and with such apparent design, that forgiveness in advance of penitence seems ill advised. There is considerable evidence of extraneous matters being brought into our lodges to align the members, break its helpful fellowship, and destroy its peace and harmony. Masters should appreciate their responsibility in this direction, but many do not, or have not the tact or strength to hold the symbolic imposter outside. It is our view that the Grand Lodge cannot stand by and see a lodge flounder in distress. It is our creature and we must see that it functions as a dispenser of Masonic Light and Knowledge. Failing we should recall the charter. Too late for final handling before this report closed an unfavorable situation in Olathe Lodge No. 19 was presented. Matters upon which there should be but one mind have separated the brethren, and the few who would, with the mystic trowel, spread the cement of brotherly love, are unable to make the bond which should unite them. There is so much antagonism and false leadership that the uninformed members cannot reach a happy solution. Among the leaders respect for Grand Lodge officers or their representatives is largely determined by their presence or absence. There seems to be no immediate prospect of the lodge standing as a beacon to men. It is therefore recommended that the incoming Grand Master give this lodge early and careful analysis, with a view of recalling its charter if the situation does not give promise of early and decided improvement. Variations in the adopted floor plans by Hiawatha Lodge No. 35 led the District Deputy to request a volunteer candidate for the inspection, that the matter might be discussed. An actual candidate was presented. For reasons, the discourtesy is passed over. Investigation developed that there are many well posted Masons in this good lodge, thoroughly familiar with our Work and floor plans, but a group of "old heads" dominate the conduct of degree Work to the detriment of our standards. I t is suggested that the new administration survey the situation and apply suitable remedies. Horace Lodge No. 352 accepted a petition, elected and conferred the degrees upon a Nebraska reject, which was a breach of comity, inasmuch as Nebraska holds perpetual jurisdiction over rejected material. A reprimand was accepted in proper humihty, and our apology, being graceously accepted by M.-. W.-. ROBERT R . DICKSON, Grand Master of Nebraska, the embarrassment was relieved. Let us show the utmost consideration for all other Grand Jurisdictions, and in case of doubt make proper inquiry before proceeding. These cases are presented as types and with no desire to hold them up to scorn. As we think of them sorrowfully and sympathetically let us look well to our own situation that we may have a strong arm to extend t o the falling. ALLEN LODGE.
For a number of years Allen Lodge No. 335 has been before us. Geographically it is well situated in one of our good small towns, with plenty of fine territory, and a substantial class of citizenship among
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
33
which to operate. It owns its own building and can make us a creditable constituent. Its treatment last year was severe, and its future gloomy. Grand Lodge gave no direction, but with the voluntary assistance of Americus Lodge No. 109, the cause of all the sorrow and trouble was placed for adjudication, upon which Letters of Dispensation were issued and work resumed. A visit to this lodge on December 13 brought joy to my heart for the wonderful fellowship and spirit of true brotherhood which seemed to animate all the members. My mission at this time was to admonish them on misdeeds and help them to a broader Masonic life. No doubt is felt that the message, couched in the utmost kindness, will bear such fruit as was desired. The report of the Committee on Chartered Lodges and Lodges U. D. will place the subject again before us. Outside of the need of instruction in the Work, and a proper supervision, there is nothing they require. We hold an unexpended balance of $220.52 which came to us from this lodge as a result of previous action of Grand Lodge, which in all fairness we should return, and it is so recommended, when a charter shall have been authorized. TRANSFER OP MEMBERSHIP.
Subsequent to the printing of the 1924 Proceedings the Grand Secretary suggested a slight change in the phraseology of the amendment to Sec. 170 to cover a brother's transfer to a petition for Letters of Dispensation for a new lodge. The change was approved by the chairman of the Jurisprudence Committee, and authority was given to print and distribute accordingly. The section now reads: 170. Transfer of Membership.—A member, desiring to transfer his membership to another Lodge in this Grand Jurisdiction, or to sign a petition for Letters of Dispensation, may make application to his home Lodge for, and be granted a Certificate for that purpose in the same manner and upon the same conditions as in making application for a dimit. The Certificate so granted shall be signed by the Secretary, and under the seal of the Lodge granting the same, and shall state: (1) That the applicant is a member in good standing of the Lodge granting the Certificate; (2) the purpose for which the Certificate is granted, and if such purpose be the transfer of his membership to another Lodge in this Grand Jurisdiction, then the number, name and location of such Lodge shall be stated, but if. for the purpose of signing a petition for Letters of Dispensation, the location only of the proposed Lodge shall be stated; and (3) the term for which the Certificate is granted, which term shall not be more than ninety days from the date of said Certificate; and such Certificate shall be null and void from and after the expiration of the term thereof. When such Certificate is issued it shall not be delivered to the member requesting the same, but shall be immediately transmitted by mail by the Secretary of the Lodge issuing the same to the Grand Secretary, who shall at once transmit the same to the Secretary of the Lodge named therein, and such Lodge may receive a brother's petition for membership accompanied by such Certificate, in lieu of a regular dimit. If such Certificate be issued for the purpose of permitting a brother to sign a petition for Letters of Dispensation, the Grand Secretary shall attach such Certificate to the petition signed by said
34
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
member, and the same shall have the force of a dimit: Provided, That when the brother has been elected to membership or the dispensation granted, his membership in the Lodge granting the Certificate shall thereupon cease: And, Provided Further, That it shall be the duty of the Secretary of the Lodge electing the brother to membership to enter across the face of the Certificate the date of the brother's election and forward it to the Grand Secretary. The Grand Secretary, upon receipt of notice of the election of said brother to membership, or upon the issuance of Letters of Dispensation as above provided for, shall forthwith notify the Lodge granting the Certificate of such fact, and thereupon the Secretary of the Lodge issuing said Certificate shall fill out a dimit as of the date the Certificate was granted and forward the same to the Grand Secretary, who shall in turn, forward the same to the Lodge in which the brother was elected to membership, or in case the Certificate is issued for the purpose of signing a petition for Letters of Dispensation the dimit shall be filed with the petition. This law shall not conflict with any law now in force relative to dimits. FOREIGN RELATIONS.
In the foreign field our situation has been quite generally happy. Co-operation and mutual helpfulness has been evidenced whenever we have crossed the border. We have expelled one member of a foreign field, and have two of our own in Masonic court for misdeeds away from home. Early in the year, without regard for anything which may have gone before, animated only by a sense of Masonic duty to conciliate, a communication was addressed to the Grand Master of New Hampshire. His reply and subsequent correspondence has reflected the same spirit. A copy of their "Diploma" legislation has been furnished us, and we have sent a copy of our "Official Receipt" for dues, and also our form of dimit. These we feel meet all the requirements of their Law except for the single fact that our " Official Receipt" is not marked " Diploma." Both Grand Jurisdictions stand upon the same Landmarks, and are subject to the law of comity. Both are equally responsible for the practical exemplification of Masonic principles. Having waived all technicalities and formalities to extend the fraternal hand, we can confidently believe it will be grasped in the common obligation to estabhsh the "Fatherhood of GOD and the Brotherhood of man." Desiring to brighten the chain which binds us to our border Jurisdictions, an official visit was made to the Annual Communications of the Grand Lodges of Nebraska and Missouri. Every courtesy was extended, and the occasions were pleasant and profitable. My father's death prevented attending the Colorado meeting as planned, and Oklahoma's session was held this week. SOCIAL A F F A I R S :
The gathering of Masonic families on social occasions has improved and strengthened many of our lodges. We need to know each other better. Many times during the year requests have come as to dancing in certain parts of lodge buildings, in connection with a varied evening's
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
35
entertainment, and in each case it was found that the conditions of ownership or control of buildings were such that the approved ruling of 1921 relating thereto was not infringed, and consent was given. The attitude of the general public, and many of our own people, upon this subject has changed. Certainly it is desirable to have our children and our families find all possible attraction to the Temple of good influences as against the unsupervised play ground. It must therefore be apparent that the need of this rule no longer exists, and its repeal is recommended. The remaining law and rulings will furnish all needed protection. GRAND LODGE DUES.
Annual reports from lodges should be forwarded to the Grand Secretary as soon as possible after the close of the year's business, and not on the last day. The 439 reports with 78,000 names to check and accounts to balance, figures to tabulate, get to the printer and back for Grand Lodge make it imperatively necessary that we have appreciative co-operation from Secretaries as well as Masters. When the summary in the annual report is completed it shows the amount of money due, and the remittance should accompany the report. It is recommended that By-Law 95 be amended to require payment of dues on or before the tenth day of January. DECISION NO. 1 0 6
The approved Decision of 1921, known as No. 106 "Dues and Dimits" has caused some confusion and feeling, is scarcely consistent with the spirit of Law or Masonry, and of doubtful policy. The tendency will be to force the calling for dimits at the close of the year, which could not be placed until the beginning of the new year. Inconvenience to the brethren and the shrinking of our revenues will result. Repeal of the Decision is recommended and the adoption of the prorata basis. LODGE TRIALS.
The sorrow of the year's work has been our lodge trials. Brethren who have been cited for wrong doing, have without exception, hired counselors to set up smoke screens, and work upon the membershipbefore and at the trial, using business, church, political and personal connections to influence the voting against conviction, rather than a strict weighing of the facts. Officers and Masons of experience and standing have stood against known facts, and sought to shield members guilty of insistent, and flagrant violations of our ethical and moral standards. Some have gone so far as to organize the uninformed t o penalize an officer who would do his duty. All this in the face of the charge to every Master Mason that the preservation of the reputation of the Fraternity unsullied must be his constant care. Not a single case has come to our attention where a brother, overtaken in a fault, has shown a Masonic disposition, admitted his misconduct, declared
36
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
his regret, shown his penitence and desire of amendment. Such an attitude should properly claim the charity of the brethren in judgment and their help in renewed effort for right living. It has been necessary to prevent a trial for failure to respond to a member summons to attend a trial in his own lodge, rather than have written into our jurisprudence the impossible and unnecessary principle that resident members must attend regardless of their vocations which might take them to distant places on the trial date. Our trial system is not suited to our present conditions and should be amended. Other Grand Jurisdictions have varying forms, some of which seem quite desirable. It is recommended that this subject be given attention for revision at our next Annual Communication. BALLOTING.
Balloting in our lodges is an order of business. Modifications of the established system have come to our attention, but not being directly at variance with the Law, and meeting an apparent necessity, they have been given the approval of silence. Some lodges consume most of their Stated meeting time on committee reports and balloting on petitions. More than half of the members in attendance have been seen to leave on the call to this order, and to hold them against their desire will break attendance. A study of the situation, from the time when other methods of selecting material were used down through the varying systems of the ballot, has been made. From this we conclude that there is no legal objection to a change, and there appears to be no ethical situation that might not be preserved in other forms. In our larger lodges there is a real need of clothing the Master with some discretionary authority in the matter of collective balloting. That you may know that this is not a dream. Section 135 of the Missouri Law is quoted: " T h e Lodge may ballot on any number of petitions for the degrees or for affiliation collectively. If on the collective ballot one or more black balls appear, then t h a t ballot shall not be counted, and the ballot may be taken on the petitions for affiliation collectively and on the petitions for the degrees collectively. If one or more black balls appear on either ballot then in whichever ballot the black ball appears the petitioners may be balloted on in groups of five or less, but when one or more black balls appear in such groups then all the preceding ballots shall not be counted, and the petitioners in that group shall be balloted on separately." It is recommended that this subject be given special consideration with a view of amending our Law at the next Annual Communication if found desirable. SPECIAL COMMITTEE.
Two subjects of moment have been submitted for consideration and subsequent action. It is therefore suggested, that if this Body desires a study made, the incoming Grand Master appoint a committee of three to handle these and any other subjects which it may be desirable to refer to them, for report at our next Annual.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
37
PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS.
This delicate question has been twice presented during the year as a heart cry of men who mayhap could not well work in stone and in timber, in brass and in iron, but whose qualifications of heart and mind abundantly fitted them for such work as we do. They were also making their mark in the quarries of business and professional life. The answers given of course were in accord with the action of this Grand Lodge. Shall we continue to say to those who would build with us, depart for we ourselves will build the Temple, having no cause except the loss of a finger or a toe? Shall he who may have been torn by the terrors of war and rebuilt by the surgeons' science and art be denied a part in this wonderful work if he can comply with all necessary requirements? Shall we still literally construe a rule laid down by an operative craft as necessary to their profession? Or shall we not read the symbolism that this writing should carry to a speculative sciencefounded upon their art? Read it as the scholars read the Bible, in thelight of the times and conditions prevailing when written. Is it not; true that our real qualifications are of the head and heart? That we build manhood and character not attempting to have a part in the architectural effort of the business world? That the vital designs are on the spiritual Trestle Board? In our conservatism do we shudder at the bogy of a wave of petitions from those who have suffered injury to the body, forgetting the safeguard of the ballot? Are we not frightened at the thought of physical imperfection, and unmindful of the moral derelict? Are we fair to our Kansas manhood in the light of our neighbor's law? Quotation " I t is incompetent for any Lodge in this jurisdiction to confer either of the three degrees of Ancient Craft Masonry on any person whose physical defects are such as to prevent his receiving and imparting the ceremonies of the several degrees; provided, that nothing herein contained shall be so construed as to render any one ineligible to the privileges of Masonry who can by the aid of artificial appliances conform to the necessary ceremonies." Our Constitution literally construed is more strict in this direction than our adopted Landmarks and all of those carried for information and study with but a single exception. Our view is that the idea of Standing Regulation No. 1, nullified in 1922 and repealed in 1923, should have prevailed and our Constitution harmonized. FUNERAL SERVICE.
Complaint is quite general that our adopted burial service is too long for conditions which frequently obtain, ,and that authoritative suggestion as to abridgment is desirable. It must be admitted that none of our ceremonies are so hard and fast that they may not bend to the reasonable demands of necessity or good taste. It is quite the rule for lodges to be requested to join in the burial service with the church of which the deceased was a member, and possibly also with the Com-
38
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
mandery or Consistory. In such cases, and others where it seems desirable to shorten the service, the following arrangements are recommended; taking the complete paragraphs as they come numerically in the Monitor as a complete service: Paragraphs 1-6-7-10-12; 8-9-6-710-12; 2-3-6-7-10-12; 4-5-6-7-10-12; 5-6-7-10-11-12. In construing these suggestions Masters should bear in mind that, depositing the Apron, Acacia, Grand Honors, and commitment (dust to dust, etc.) are considered essentials. Where the officiating clergyman attends the interment it is good taste to ask him to give a concluding prayer and benediction as a closing for the service, instead of paragraph 12 and what follows. This service should not be given except at the grave or place •where the remains are laid away. MISCELLANEOUS.
Especial attention of all lodges is directed to the report of the Comxiittee on Correspondence, to be found in the Proceedings. It contains a digest of the best thought of the world upon the important things of Masonry. Find a place in your regular order of business and give these interesting opinions or decisions to the brethren in small but regular •doses. The chain letter question has been presented for official expression a n d it seems only desirable to give our own inexorable rule. "Chain letters for whatever cause and from whatever source go immediately into the waste basket." Our membership is unethically circularized and solicited for various causes, worthy and otherwise. The Edicts of the past ought to be a sufficient guide. Let us stand four square as men of our communities, •discharging all the duties of citizenship, and declining to have our Masonic sympathy converted into commercial gain. There is a growing tendency to give life membership and exemption from dues. Some lodges confer this honor upon all Past Masters. It is a doubtful and dangerous system, often unfairly operated. Our dues are low and should so remain. There are many worthy and able members in most of our lodges who secretly covet the honor of the chairs—why attach a pension? DECISIONS.
Upon occasion the following rulings have been made: (1) " A lodge may properly accompany a brother's remains to t h e place of interment, regardless of jurisdictional boundary lines, and there conduct the burial service. The lodge must be opened and closed according to regulations." This was particularly to meet the necessities of our border lodges near Kansas City, called to bury their dead in cemeteries across the line. It had the approval of the Grand Master of Missouri as the files •will show.
1924-25.
GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS.
39
(2) " I t is lawful for the Craft to lay the corner-stone of a building to be erected b y a Masonic body for Masonic purposes, even though part of the same is to be used for rentals." (3) " Regardless of change in By-Law raising or lowering the amount, the fee in effect on date petition is received by a lodge shall govern, no matter when the degrees may be conferred." ASSOCIATE OFFICERS.
Our associates in the executive responsibility have, without exception given courteous and cheerful support to the efforts of the year. We have not always agreed, but by conference, discussion and exchange of view point, have reached a plan of action in each case which could be followed in perfect unanimity and harmony. The system is urgently recommended to the Masters of all pur lodges as a panacea for most of the ills that affect lodge government. Our Grand Secretary has been a tower of strength to me, and a brake on my impetuous disposition. A wellspring of information on all Masonic matters, with records and data for confirmation or elaboration. We cannot place him on a pedestal because he is human, and in Masonry all men who give their best are equal. To say that he is the most valuable man in this Grand Jurisdiction, from the Masonic standpoint, is but to jeflect what is in your hearts, and admit the truth. We should insist that he forthwith delegate much of his work, and write his memoirs of Kansas Masonry ere his seat is vacant and his light extinguished. PERSONAL.
Shortly the honorable station in which I have sought to serve the brethren and the Masonic system will pass to another, and my work as Grand Master will be finished. I t has been a wonderful experience. On occasion I have had all the courtesy and attention of a King, and again have been permitted to occupy my favorite role, on the level with the brethren. While the utmost deference has been shown, one of our Masters reprimanded me at length, and another briefly recited facts and advised that I "could govern myself accordingly." Neither intending in any way to offer an affront. I have sought to give myself to the Craft in their own localities to the utmost, and no invitation has been declined unless the date had been given to another. No effort has been made to make a visitation record, and our calls have been only upon invitation. Four requests came to visit upon one day, to join in the celebration of fiftieth anniversaries. Amusement, recreation, duty to the church and even the home, have had to bend to the call of Masons. The sacrifices, trials, mental and bodily fatigue, have been entirely compensated in the joy.of the service. The hope that I might contribute something to the right thinking of the Craft, and the kindly encouraging words of the brethren have been the inspiration. If the Grand Architect of Heaven and earth can find that the work in^His^vineyard has been advanced in the least, it is enough.
40
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Subject always to the call of Masonry, I shall now return to the ranks, to build upon my experience and serve my lodge and its Master. To give my best in the ennobling work of visiting the sick, comforting the sorrowing, encouraging the depressed and downhearted, and helping them out of the bogs of life. My gratitude to you for the honor and opportunity of this the great year of my life is unbounded. Fraternally submitted, ELMER F . STRAIN,
Grand Master.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
41
GRAND TREASURER'S REPORT.
R.-. W.-. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH, Grand Treasurer, submitted the following report, which, on direction of the M.". W.-. Grand Master was referred to the Committee on Reports of Grand Officers: To the M.: W.: Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of KansasThe following report of the receipts and disbursements of Grand Lodge funds is fraternally submitted: LAWRENCE, KANSAS, February 2, 1925.
WILLIAM FRANK MARCH, Grand Treasurer, In account with T H E M . - . W . ' . G R A N D LODGE OF KANSAS. GENERAL FUND.
^Q24 Receipts. Mar. 1.—Balance on hand $ 18,956 54 Received from Grand Secretary as per receipts Nos. 1 to 67.... 103,745 87 $122,702 41 Disbursements. 1924-1925.—Warrants paid Nos. 1 to 376 except Nos. 167 and 339 $102,748 52 Transferred to Charity Fund 4,142 96 Balance on hand 15,810 93
122,702 41
CHARITY FUND.
Receipts. 1924.—Balance on hand $ 18,766 33 Transferred from General Fund 4,142 96 ... Disbursements. 1924.—Warrants Nos. 167and 339 $ 2,401 50 Balance on hand,...V 20,507 79
22,909 29
22,909 29
I have in my hands the following bonds purchased by the Council of Administration: Spring Tovmship, Harper County, bearing 5% interest: No. 13, dated Aug. 1, 1911, due Aug. 1, 1931 No. 14, dated Aug. 1, 1911, due Aug. 1, 1931 No. 15, dated Aug. 1, 1911, due Aug. 1, 1931 N o . 1 6 , dated Aug. 1, 1911, due Aug. 1, 1931
$500 00 500 00 500 00 500 00
42
PROCEEDINGS
School District No. No. 13, dated No. 14, dated No. 15, dated
OF THE
79, Greenwood County, July 1, 1911, due July July 1, 1911, due July July 1, 1911, due July
School District No. 50, No. 7, dated Jan. No. 6, dated Jan. No. 5, dated Jan. No. 4, dated Jan. No. 3, dated Jan. No. 2, dated Jan. No. 1, dated Jan.
February,
bearing 5% interest: 1, 1925....: $500 00 1, 1926 500 00 1, 1927 500 00
Brown County, hearing 6 % interest: 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1933 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1934 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1935 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1936 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1937 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1938 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1939
$500 500 500 500 500 500 500
00 00 00 00 00 00 00
Board of Education, City of Lamed, bearing 5 % interest: No. 33, dated Jan. 1, 1914, due July 1, 1933 No. 34, dated Jan. 1, 1914, due July 1, 1933 No. 35, dated Jan. 1, 1914, due July 1, 1933...: No. 36, dated Jan. 1, 1914, due July 1, 1933
$1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000
00 00 00 00
U. S. Savings Certificates, (Purchased at $960.00): No. C 528640, due July 10, 1927.. No. C 528656, due July 10, 1927 No. M 71728, due July 10, 1927
$ 100 00 100 00 1,000 00
U. S. Fourth LibertylLoan Bonds bearing U]4,% interest, as shown in report of 192U: 1 Bond $ 5,000 00 23 Bonds $1,000.00 each 23,000 00 6 Bonds $500.00 each 3,000 00 The following bonds which were purchased by the Council of Administration during 1924, bearing 4 J^ % interest: No. B 01621882, due Oct. 15, 1938 $1,000 00 No. C 01621383, due Oct. 15, 1938 1,000 00 No. D 01621384, due Oct. 15, 1938 1,000 00 No. E 01621385, due Oct. 15, 1938 1,000 00 No. F 01621386, due Oct. 15, 1938 1,000 00 No. G 01621387, due Oct. 15, 1938 1,000 00 • No. H 01621388, due Oct. 15, 1938 1,000 00 No. J 01621389, due Oct. 15, 1938 1,000 00 No. K 01621390, due Oct. 15, 1938 1,000 00 No. A 01621391, d^ue Oct. 15, 1938 1,000 00 No. B 01621392, due Oct. 15, 1938 1,000 00 No. C 01621393, due Oct. 15, 1938 1,000 00 No. D 01621394, due Oct. 15, 1938 1,000 00 No. E 01621395, due Oct. 15, 1938 : 1,000 00 No. F 01621396, due Oct. 15, 1938 1,000 00 15,000 00 Total
:
$58,2,00 00
Fraternally submitted, WILLIAM FRANK MARCH,
Grand Treasurer.
1924-25
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
43
GRAND SECRETARY'S REPORT.
R.-. W.-. ALBERT K . WILSON submitted the following report, which, on direction of the M.'. W/. Grand Master was referred to the Committee on Reports of Grand Officers: To the M.: W.-.Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: Your Grand Secretary is pleased to submit the following report for consideration at this Annual Communication: PROCEEDINGS 1 9 2 4 .
The Annual Proceedings for 1924 were printed and distributed within the usual time after the close of our last Annual Communication. HISTORICAL REGISTRY AND ABSTRACT.
Our historical registry and abstract books were posted up t o date as soon as practicable after the Annual Communication of 1924. BINDING PROCEEDINGS.
In accordance with Section 57 of the Grand Lodge Laws, the Proceedings for the past three years, completing Volume X I X , were bound, and on September 19, 1924, a copy was furnished to each lodge, and to each Grand Lodge in exchange for like bound Proceedings. CHARTERS ISSUED.
At the last Annual Communication charters were authorized for the formation of the following new lodges: Enterprise Lodge No. JfS7.—0n March 13, 1924, R.-.W.". ROY G. SHEARER, Special Deputy Grand Master, consecrated, dedicated and. constituted this lodge, with the following officers: THURMAN HOWARD SHERWOOD
.....Master
JOHN ALBERT L I N E HALDEN HURLOCK PORTER ALBERT ALEXANDER FLACK EDWARD HERBERT KUSTBR...
OSCAR ENECK LONDENE HUGH ELLSWORTH WHIPKEY CHARLES COLUMBUS SELBY WILLIAM ARTHUR CARTWRIGHT ORASE ALBERT SELBY
Senior Warden • Junior Warden ...'
Treasurer Secretary
Senior Deacon Junior Deacon Senior Steward Junior Steward Tyler
44
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
West Gate Lodge No. ^3S.—On March 22, 1924, R.-.W.-. ROBERT W. RADFORD, Special Deputy Grand Master; consecrated, dedicated and constituted this lodge, with the following officers: HARRY O . MAILER
Master
JOSEPH SCHROEDER EVERETT DILLON
Senior Warden Junior Warden
J E S S E H . BAXTER CLARENDON GREENWOOD, J R
Treasurer Secretary
MELVIN C * ONSEN GEORGE T . WRIGHT JAMES O . SEVEDGE WILLIAM C . FRYE
Senior Deacon Junior Deacon Senior Steward Junior Steward
THEODORE C . VIELHAUER
Tyler
Beaumont Lodge No. i39.—On March 14, 1924, R/. W.-. LAUREN D. RiGG, Special Deputy Grand Master, consecrated, dedicated and constituted this lodge, with the following officers: RAY B . TANQUARY WILLIAM KIMBALL CHARLES IL WILCOX
Master Senior Warden Junior Warden
WILLIAM HUTTON JAMES CLINTON SQUIER
FRANK W . SQUIER HARRY J. TAYLOR SAMUEL HARING JAMES W . WASSON
Treasurer Secretary
;
Senior Deacon Junior Deacon Senior Steward Junior Steward
FRANCIS E . DRAKE
Tyler
LODGES UNDER DISPENSATION.
Bendena
Lodge, at Bendena, Doniphan
County.—Dispensation
issued March 29, 1924. Officers: ALBERT F . ALBERS, Master; ALTON L. DUTTON, Senior Warden; MARION R . PETERSON, Junior Warden.
Johnson Lodge, at Johnson, Stanton County.—Dispensation
issued
May 1, 1924. Officers: CLARENCE J. STEWART, Master; ALFRED L . SMITH, Senior Warden; WILLIAM F . HOOVER, Junior Warden.
Allen Lodge, at Allen, Lyon County.—Dispensation 1924.
Officers:
issued May 15,
JONATHAN J. WINGFIELD, Master; WILLIAM HIEFNER,
Senior Warden; ARTHUR E . BATES, Junior Warden. Rexford Lodge, at Rexford, Thomas County.—Dispensation June 9, 1924. Officers:
issued
FRED HAWKINS, Master; GRANT D . PROTZ-
MAN. Senior Warden; GLADETH F . BASTIN, Junior Warden. Kanorado Lodge, at Kanorado, Sherman
County.—Dispensation
issued June 28, 1924. Officers: VERNE E . DYATT, Master; OSCAR W . HALL, Senior Warden; ROBERT BICHAM, Junior Warden.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
Stanley Lodge, at Stanley, Johnson County.—Dispensation
45
issued
August 19, 1924. Officers: OTTO E . PERRY, Master; WATSON B . PLANNER, Senior Warden; OSCAR H . ANES, Junior Warden.
Hutchinson Lodge, at Hutchinson, Reno County.—Dispensation issued September 17, 1924. Officers: CLARENCE W . PAYNE, Master; JOHN R . BEECHING, Senior Warden;
HAROLD T . ENGLISH,
Junior
Warden. Satanta Lodge, at Satanta, Haskell County.—Dispensation
issued
October 17, 1924. Officers: PRESSLEY M . FINER, Master; JAMES S . PATRICK, Senior Warden; JOHN D . JONES, Junior Warden. COPIES OF CHARTERS TO ROSEDALE LODGE NO. 333 AND FREEPORT
LODGE NO. 389. By order of the Grand Master copies of charters were issued to Rosedale Lodge No. 333, of Rosedale, Kansas City, Kansas, and to Freeport Lodge No. 389, of Freeport, Harper County, Kansas. The charter of Rosedale Lodge No. 333 has been lost and although diligent search has been made it cannot be found. The copy of the charter of Freeport Lodge No. 389 was burned December 4, 1924, in a fire which destroyed their hall on that date, the original having been destroyed by fire several years ago. This is another instance of the failure on the part of lodges to comply with repeated recommendations to file their original charter with the Grand Lodge and receive a certified copy. RESTORATION OF CHARTERS.
During the year the charters of the following lodges have been properly restored wherever necessary, and certified photographic copies made, framed, and sent to each lodge, the original being placed on file in the archives of the Grand Lodge: Palmyra Lodge No. 23, Baldwin; Pacific Lodge No. 29, Humboldt; Arcana Lodge No. 31, Doniphan; Hiawatha Lodge No. 35, Hiawatha; Holton Lodge No. 42, Holton; LaCygne Lodge No. 61, LaCygne, (copy, original burned); Erie Lodge No. 76, Erie; Zeredatha Lodge No. 80, Cottonwood Falls; Doric Lodge No. 83, Eudora; Benevolent Lodge No. 98, Abilene; Wichita Lodge No. 99, Wichita; Euclid Lodge No. 101, Lyndon; Republic Lodge No. 123, Republic; Palestine Lodge No. 127, Edgerton; Temple Lodge No. 237, McCune; Albert Pike Lodge No. 303, Wichita; Frederick Lodge No. 337, Frederick; Holyrood Lodge No. 343, Holyrood; Alta Vista Lodge No. 357, Alta Vista: Powhattan Lodge No. 363, Powhattan; Roger E, Sherman Lodge Np. 369, Kansas City; Macksville Lodge No. 371,' Macksville; Emmett Lodge No. 387, Emmett; Selden Lodge No. 423, Selden; Minneola Lodge No. 431, Minneola; West Gate Lodge No. 438, Kansas City.
46
PROCEEDINGS.
OF THE
February,
The list of all lodges whose charters have been placed on file in the archives of the Grand Lodge is again submitted in order that we may have a continuous permanent record covering this subject: Smithton Lodge No. 1, Highland; Leavenworth Lodge No. 2, Leavenworth; Kickapoo Lodge No. 4, Potter; Washington Lodge No. 5, Atchison; Union Lodge No. 7, Junction City; King Solomon Lodge No. 10, Leavenworth; Jewell Lodge No. 11, Jewell; Emporia Lodge No. 12, Emporia; Oskaloosa Lodge No. 14, Oskaloosa; Great Bend Lodge No. 15, Great Bend; Lafayette Lodge No. 16, Manhattan; Topeka Lodge No. 17, Topeka; Ottawa Lodge No. 18, Ottawa; Olathe Lodge No. 19, Olathe; Grasshopper Falls (Valley Falls) Lodge No. 21, Valley Falls; Palmyra Lodge No. 23, Baldwin; Osage Valley Lodge No. 24, Osawatomie; Oketo Lodge No. 25, Oketo; Pacific Lodge No. 29, Humboldt; Arcana Lodge No. 31, Doniphan; Auburn Lodge No. 32, Auburn; Mound City Lodge No. 33, Mound City; Hiawatha Lodge No. 35, Hiawatha; Council Grove Lodge No. 36, Council Grove; Paola Lodge No. 37, Paola; DeSoto Lodge No. 40, DeSoto; Holton Lodge No. 42, Holton; Nickerson Lodge No. 43, Nickerson; Delphian Lodge No. 44, Garnett; Easton Lodge No. 45, Easton; Nine Mile Lodge No. 49, Lansing; Lake Lodge No. 50, Silver Lake; Orient Lodge No. 51, Topeka; Pottawatomie Lodge No. 52, St. Marys; Wetmore Lodge No. 53, Wetmore; McCracken Lodge No. 58, McCracken; Saltville Lodge No. 59, Barnard; Salina Lodge No. 60, Salina; LaCygne Lodge No. 61, LaCygne (copy, original burned); Adams Lodge No. 63, Oswego; Wathena Lodge No. 64, Wathena; Hiram Lodge No. 68, Leavenworth; Altamont Lodge No. 69, Altamont; Baxter Lodge No. 71, Baxter Springs; Wamego Lodge No. 75, Wamego; Erie Lodge No. 76, Erie; Delta Lodge No. 77, Medicine Lodge; Zeredatha Lodge No. 80, Cottonwood Falls; New Albany Lodge No. 81, New Albany; Doric Lodge No. 83, Eudora; Sunflower Lodge No. 86, Wichita; Golden Rule Lodge No. 90, North Topeka; MarysvilleLodgeNo. 91, Marysville; Constellation Lodge No. 95, Fredonia; Patmos Lodge No. 97, El Dorado; Benevolent Lodge No. 98, Abilene; Wichita Lodge No. 99, Wichita; Euclid Lodge No. 101, Lyndon; Keystone Lodge No. 102, Cofleyville; Cedar Lodge No. 103, Chanute; Fortitude Lodge No. 107, Independence; Hesperian Lodge No. I l l , Rossville; Blue Valley Lodge No. 112, Irving; Advance Lodge No. 114, Florence; Muscotah Lodge No. 116, Muscotah; Parsons Lodge No. 117, Parsons; Halcyon Lodge No. 120, Peabody; Clifton Lodge No. 122, Clifton; Republic Lodge No. 123, Republic; Meridian Lodge No. 126, Elk Falls; Palestine Lodge No. 127, Edgerton; Carson Lodge No. 132, Elk City; Crescent Lodge No. 133, Arkansas City; Clay Center Lodge No. 134, Clay Center; Cherryvale Lodge No. 137, Cherryvale; Dover Lodge No. 138, Dover; Signal Lodge No. 141, Osage.City; Gilead Lodge No. 144, Yates Center; Mt. Vernon Lodge No. 145, Beloit; Center Lodge No. 147, Marion; WelUngton Lodge 150, Wellington; Douglass Lodge No. 151, Douglass; Luray Lodge No. 153, Luray; Active Lodge No. 158, Atchison; Saqui Lodge
1924-25.
GBAND
LODGE OF KANSAS.
47
No. 160, Osborne; Greenwood Lodge No. 163, Fall River; Oxford Lodge No. 165, Oxford; Lamed Lodge No. 167, Larned; McPherson Lodge No. 172, McPherson; Belle Plaine Lodge No. 173, Belle Plaine; Kirwin Lodge No. 175, Kirwin; Prairie Queen Lodge No. 176, Clyde; Burr Oak Lodge No. 178, Burr Oak; Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 179, Kinsley; Burrton Lodge No. 182, Burrton; Mountain Slope Lodge No. 186, Oberlin; Pittsburg Lodge No. 187, Pittsburg; Newahcuba Lodge No. 189, Stockton; Henri Lodge No. 190, Tonganoxie; Walnut Valley Lodge No. 191, Ness City; Royal Lodge No. 192, Lyons; Galena Lodge No. 194, Galena; Hays Lodge No. 195, Hays; Madison Lodge No. 196, Madison; Canton Lodge No. 197, Canton; Blue Hill Lodge No. 198, Lucas; Anthony Lodge No. 200, Anthony; Delphos Lodge No. 202, Delphos; Sumner Lodge No. 203, Caldwell; Downs Lodge No. 204, Downs; Friendship Lodge No. 208, Haven; Fulton Lodge No. 210, Fulton; Olive Branch Lodge No. 212, Colony; Twin Grove Lodge No. 213, Severy; CornerStoneLodgeNo. 219, Little River; Lebanon Lodge No. 221, Scandia; St. Bernard Lodge No. 222, Dodge City; Joppa Lodge No. 223, Leon; Anchor Lodge No. 224, Williamsburg; Siloam Lodge No. 225, Topeka; Vulcan Lodge No. 229, Walnut; Ninnescah Lodge No. 230, Kingman; Temple Lodge No. 237, McCune; Urbana Lodge No. 239, Urbana; Miltonvale Lodge No. 242, Miltonvale; Whiting Lodge No. 250, Whiting; Galva Lodge No. 251, Galva; Oakley Lodge No. 253, Oakley; Morton Lodge No. 258, Cheney; Beattie Lodge No. 259, Beattie; Armourdale Lodge No. 271, Kansas City; Unity Lodge No. 273, Clearwater; Black Diamond Lodge No. 274, Weir; Windom Lodge No. 276, Windom; Barney Lodge No. 279, Dighton; Alpha Lodge No. 282, Jetmore; Preston Lodge No. 283, Cimarron; Lotus Lodge No. 286, Blue Mound; Oak Lodge No. 287, Lebannon; Emerald Lodge No. 289, Lakin; Paradise Lodge. No. 290, Plainville; Beulah Lodge No. 291, Bunker Hill; Apollo Lodge No. 297, Ellis; Samaria Lodge No. 298, Wilson; Fargo Lodge No. 300, Liberal; Hamilton Lodge No. 301, Hamilton; Albert Pike Lodge No. 303, Wichita; Avon Lodge No. 305, Westphalia; St. Thomas Lodge No. 306, Colby; Alden Lodge No. 308. Alden; Syracuse Lodge No. 309, Syracuse; Santa Fe Lodge No. 312, Sublette; Severance Lodge No. 313, Severance; Vermillion Lodge No. 320, Vermillion; Caney Lodge No. 324, Caney; Horton Lodge No. 326, Horton; LaCrosse Lodge No. 330, LaCrosse; Allen Lodge No. 335, Allen; Formoso Lodge No. 336, Formoso; Frederick Lodge No. 337, Frederick; Holyrood Lodge No. 343, Holyrood; Edna Lodge No. 345, Edna; Moundridge Lodge No. 346, Moundridge; Spivey Lodge No. 347, Spivey; Scammon Lodge No. 351, Scammon; Marquette Lodge No. 353, Marquette; Summerfield Lodge No. 354, Summerfield; Wellsville Lodge No. 356, Wellsville; Alta Vista Lodge No. 357, Alta Vista; Sylvan Grove Lodge No. 359, Sylvan Grove; Geneseo Lodge No. 361, Geneseo; Powhattan Lodge No. 363, Powhattan; Plains Lodge No. 367, Plains; Roger E. Sherman Lodge No. 369- Kansas City; Maple Hill Lodge No. 370, Maple Hill; Macksville Lodge No. 371, Macksville; Delavan Lodge No. 375, Dela-
48
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
van; Grand View Lodge No. 376, Bucklin; White City Lodge No. 380, White City; Wilsey Lodge No. 382, Wilsey; McDonald Lodge No. 383, McDonald; Tyro Lodge No. 386, Tyro; Emmett Lodge No. 387, Emmett; Spearville Lodge No. 388, Spearville; Natoma Lodge No. 390, Natoma; Saffprdville Lodge No. 395, Saffordville; Lindsborg Lodge No. 397, Lindsborg; Mullinville Lodge No. 399, Mullinville; Melody Lodge No. 400, Ottawa; Wakarusa Lodge No. 402, Wakarusa; St. Francis Lodge No. 404, St. Francis; Kensington Lodge No. 405, Kensington; Haviland Lodge No. 409, Haviland; Sharon Springs Lodge No. 417, Sharon Springs; Codell Lodge No. 418, Codell; Selden Lodge No. 423, Selden; Claflin Lodge No. 424, Claflin; Goff Lodge No. 430, Goff; MinneolaLodge No. 431, Minneola; Bestor G. Brown Lodge No. 433, Wichita; Overland Park Lodge No. 436, Overland Park; West Gate Lodge No. 438, Kansas City. CHANGE IN DISTRICTS.
It was found necessary, as a matter of convenience, to make the following transfer of lodges from one district to another: Latham Lodge No. 401 from District No. 29 to District No. 34. , Harveyville Lodge No. 421 from District No. 22 to District No. 73, Minneola Lodge No. 431 from District No. 70 to District No. 57. . MASONIC DISTRICTS.
At the last Annual Communication charters were issued for new lodges at Enterprise, Kansas City and Beaumont, and they were assigned to the following districts: Enterprise Lodge No. 437 placed in District No. 32. West Gate No. 438 placed in District No. 4. Beaumont Lodge No. 439 placed in District No. 34. GRAND REPRESENTATIVES NEAR OTHER GRAND LODGES. ' On account of extending fraternal recognition to the Grand Lodges of Colombia and Guatemala, and necessary changes in other jurisdictions, the following brethren were appointed Grand Representatives of our Grand Lodge near their own: Colombia Guatemala Minnesota New Brunswick Philippine Islands
VIRGILIO DE LA CRUZ SAMUEL E . FRANCO MONRETVILLB J. BROWN GESNER A. TAYLOR HARVEY ALBERT BORDNER
Saskatchewan
W. M. MARTIN
Barranquilla. Guatemala. St. Paul. Dorchester. Manila.
Regina.
GRAND REPRESENTATIVES NEAR OUR GRAND LODGE. The following Grand Representatives were appointed for the two Grand Jurisdictions to whom recognition was extended one year ago: Colombia
ELLSWORTH B . SEWELL, J R
Guatemala
LUCIAN L . CONSTANT
Topeka.
Belle Plaine.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
49
HALLS BURNED.
The Hall of Freeport Lodge No. 389 was destroyed by fire on December 4, 1924, together with all property, records and copy of charter. This is another instance which emphasizes the importance of the repeated recommendation of your Grand Secretary concerning lodges supplying themselves with fireproof cabinets for the protection of their records. The report of the District Deputy Grand Master concerning this lodge shows that they had on hand this year $353.95, which would have been doubly ample to have covered the cost of a fireproof safe or cabinet which would have given absolute protection to their valuable records. As further evidence of the lack of precaution against loss by fire they had no insurance on their property. [ADDITIONAL HISTORICAL FILING
CASE.
Owing to the crowded condition of our present historical filing cases it was necessary to purchase an additional one during the past year. HISTORY OF LODGES.
Once more the attention of the lodges is called to the importance of preparing an historical sketch of their lodge. This sketch should deal very largely with the surroundings at the time the lodge was first organized. By this we mean a brief story of what actually brought about the proposition of establishing a new Masonic lodge in that particular locality, the place where the brethren first met to discuss the advisability of making application for letters of dispensation, the names and characteristics of the brethren who took part, the character of the room in which they held their meetings, and any other items of interest which bear on the subject. In addition to this lodges should furnish photographs not only of their present quarters, but of every building in which their lodge has met wherever it is possible to obtain same. They should likewise get interior pictures wherever possible, also a picture of the street on which the buildings were located. In some cases an old picture along these lines would be much more interesting than one taken today. From the personal experience of your Grand Secretary it is well known that in many of our lodge rooms there is to be found old and rare documents, such as early by-laws and other Masonic material which would add very greatly to the Grand Lodge Library, to say nothing of the lodge itself being on record as having contributed something toward the history of the Craft in Kansas. Every lodge should appoint a special committee to look after this work, confining the membership to one brother only, so that the work could be carried on without taking up the time of consulting any of the other members.
50
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
As an illustration of the carelessness of some of our lodges, a number of Fiftieth Anniversaries of lodges have been held and the Grand Lodge has not.been furnished with even a program of the meeting. There is nothing on file either in the individual drawer assigned to the particular lodge in this Grand Lodge Library or in the library itself indicating t h a t the lodge memorialized the fiftieth milestone in its history. CONFERRING DEGREES IN LESS THAN THE REQUIRED TIME.
The annual reports from' Osage Valley Lodge No. 24, of Osawatomie. Council Grove Lodge No. 36, Halstead Lodge No. 46, Halcyon Lodge No. 120, of Peabody, and Hebron Lodge No. 314, of Gridley, show that degrees were conferred-in less than four weeks, being a violation of Section 6 of Article VI of the Constitution of the Grand Lodge. Violations of this kind are growing every year and your Grand Secretary has called the attention of the Grand Lodge to this subject, believing t h a t such flagrant violations should receive attention at the hands of the Grand Lodge. REDUCED RAILROAD FARE.
Your Grand Secretary is again pleased to report that through the proper Association, the railroads granted us a rate of a fare and onehalf for this Annual Communication. FEES FOR CERTIFICATES.
Up until one year ago, under Section 172 of the Grand Lodge Laws, your Grand Secretary remitted to the Grand Treasurer all fees collected for certifying to the record of Masonic membership and concerning the standing of any lodge issuing life membership certificates, and immediately drew warrants in favor of the Masonic Home for all such.remittances. As these fees are usually received in single remittances of twentyfive cents each, it necessitated transmitting the same to the Grand Treasurer and drawing a warrant in favor of the Masonic Home, thereby incurring an expense of practically the total amount paid to the Home. As the total amount received from these sources is quite small your Grand Secretary one year ago recommended that our law be amended so that these fees'could be turned in to the General Fund of the Grand Lodge and not paid to the Masonic Home for the reason indicated above-:—that the expense of transmitting these items was equal to the amount received. This subject was referred to your Committee on Jurisprudence and instead of amending the law to conform with the recommendation of your Grand Secretary, it was changed so that the Grand Secretary should hold all these fees and transmit them to the Secretary of the Kansas Masonic Home annually.
1924-25.
GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS.
51
This amendment to the laws is in direct opposition to the obligations of your Grand Secretary to pay all money over to the Grand Treasurer, and further, that he has no authority to hold the funds of the Grand Lodge at any time. Further than this, if your Grand Secretary complied with the amendment ,as made one year ago there would absolutely be no record of this money having been paid to the Grand Lodge and would disorganize the whole system of accounts. In addition to the above it has been the invariable custom of your Grand Secretary, and in compliance with his obligation as a Mason and in fulfillment of the requirements of his bond, to immediately turn over to the Grand Treasurer all receipts, regardless of the character of the same, and under n'o circumstances to hold or deposit any of the Grand Lodge funds. This subject is therefore again submitted to Grand Lodge with the recommendation that Section 172 be amended so that all these fees collected be remitted in the usual way to the Grand Treasurer and be placed to the credit of the General Fund of the Grand Lodge. LIST OF REGULAR LODGES.
In accordance with the usual custom of furnishing our lodges with a copy of the List of Regular Lodges, a sufficient number of these books were purchased and mailed out of this office on May 9, 1924. Owing to the indifference and carelessness on the part of some Secretaries, many of these books were thrown aside or destroyed, and as it is highly important that all lodges have a copy close a t hand attention is called to this matter in the hope that the Masters of the.lodges will see to it that these books are kept on file in the lodge room.' As the appropriation contemplated furnishing only one, copy t o each lodge free of charge your Grand Secretary has in all cases where these books have been lost, required the payment of one dollar covering the purchase price and postage for another book. MEMBERS OP DEFUNCT LODGES.
One year ago your Grand Secretay reported that we were carrying on our rolls the names of many members of defunct lodges who had never paid up their dues and applied for the usual Grand Secretary's certificate, yet they are enjoying the same privileges as the members who are paying annually to the support of the Institution. This subject was referred to the Committee on Jurisprudence who recommended an amendment to Section 62, which provides that where such members fail to apply for their certificate within one year from" the date of the surrender or revocation of such charter, they will be subject to suspension by the Grand Lodge. The Committee, however, failed to indicate how far back in the history of these lodges this law should apply. Some charters were revoked or surrendered more than sixty years ago, since which time more or less lodges have ceased t o
52
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
exist. It is therefore necessary that some action be taken indicating where the starting point in this law shall be made. ALLEN LODGE U. D.
Letters of Dispensation were issued for the formation of a new lodge at Allen, Lyon County, in 1923, and at the last Annual Communication their petition for a charter was denied. Soon after Grand Lodge closed these brethren remitted to the Grand Secretary $220.52, being the total amount of cash on hand. All property owned by the Grand Lodge and which formerly was the property of late Allen Lodge No. 335 and used by Allen Lodge U. D., was again put in use by these brethren under authority of Letters of-Dispensation issued in 1924. OFFICIAL STENOGRAPHER.
Your Grand Secretary one year ago recommended an amendment to Section 48 of the Grand Lodge Laws, making an allowance of $50.00 instead of $35.00 for the services of an Official Stenographer at Grand Lodge. This subject was overlooked by the Committee on Reports of Grand Officers and therefore no action was taken, and it is again presented for consideration at this Annual Communication.
1 BOOKS OF ANNUAL RETURNS.
Immediately following the close of the last Annual Communication the work of checking up the Books of Annual Returns was begun, and in due time all were returned to the lodges. Notwithstanding the fact that the lodges had been given more than one year's notice that these books were to be forwarded to the Grand Secretary, and a communication was sent to each with the receipt for Grand Lodge dues and the credentials requesting that these books be forwarded at once, yet in the following cases the third letter had to be sent before the books were finally sent in: Nickerson No. 43; Xenia No. 47; Shawnee No. 54; Landmark No. 218, Mound Valley; Randall No. 304; Avon No. 305, Westphalia: Wallace No. 318; Vermillion No. 320; Wakarusa No. 402; Cunningham No. 427. In the examination of these books it was surprising to find the number of names and dates of initiation and passing which had never been reported to Grand Lodge. It would seem that some of the secretaries withheld reporting these names in the Annual Reports, thinking they should be reported only when they received the Third Degree. This failure, however, is a violation of the plain instructions under the head of "Work Done" in the Annual Reports, and which indicates that the secretaries pay no attention to the directions as indicated under the several heads in the Annual Reports.
1U24-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
53
If Secretaries would enter at least one given name in full in their Books of Annual Returns, and not use initials and abbreviations, there would be less errors of this kind in the Annual Reports. Before entering into the usual classification your Grand Secretary desires first to compliment the one lodge which stands alone as having sent in an absolutely complete and perfect Book of Annual Returns— Wetmore Lodge No. 53, of Wetmore. The book was clean, well written, names all spelled in full and not a single omission anywhere. This lodge, with a membership at the close of 1923 of 95 members, should be proud of this mention, being the only one of the 438 lodges which submitted an absolutely correct record. This condition is somewhat surprising in view of the fact that when the books were verified five years ago there were found to be twenty-nine absolutely correct. Next to the above, are the following lodges whose books were practically perfect, but as noted in the classification, they failed in filling out possibly a name or a date, and while these errors are extremely slight, yet in a classification from a point of perfection they must b e taken into consideration: CirclevilleNo. 20; Orient No. 51, Topeka; Adams No. 63, Oswego; Sunflower No. 86, Wichita; Ellsworth No. 146; Thayer No. 149; Blue Rapids No. 169; Pittsburg No. 187; Hiattville No. 216; Mount Zion No. 266, Nortonville; Armourdale No. 271, Kansas City; Comanche No. 295, Coldwater; Albert Pike No. 308, Wichita; Moundridge No. 346; Wellsville No. 356; Valley Center No. 364; Roger E. Sherman No. 369, Kansas City; Emmett No. 387; Mullinville No. 399; Kensington No. 405. The following classifications indicate the character of the errors made: Name and number of lodge omitted one or more times: Nos. 6, 7, 8, 9,10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16,19, 21, 22, 23, 25, 28, 29, 30, 32, 33i, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 43, 44, 46, 47, 48,. 49, 50, 51, 52, 54, 55, 58, 59, 61, 64, 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 81, 82, 83, 85, 89, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 99, 101, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 110 111, 114, 115, 117, 118, 120, 121, 122, 124, 125, 126, 128, 129, 130, 132, 133, 134, 135, 136, 137, 138, 139, 141, 142, 143, 145, 147, 148, 150, 151, 152, 153, 154, 155, 156, 158, 160, 162, 163, 164, 167, 168, 170, 171, 173, 174, 175, 179, 180, 181, 183, 185, 186, 188, 190, 191, 192, 193, 194, 195, 196, 197, 198, 199, 201, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 208, 209, 210, 211, 213, 214, 215, 218, 220, 223, 224, 225, 226, 227, 228, 229, 230, 232, 233, 234, 235, 236, 237, 238, 239, 240, 242, 243, 244, 245, 246, 247, 248, 250, 251, 252, 253, 255, 256, 267, 258, 259, 260, 262, 264, 267, 268, 269, 270, 272, 273, 274, 275, 276, 277, 278, 279, 280, 281, 282, 285, 287, 291, 292, 293, 294, 296, 297, 298, 299, 300, 301, 302, 304, 308, 309, 310, 311, 312, 313, 314, 315, 316, 317, 318, 319, 320, 322, 323, 324, 325, 329, 330, 332, 334, 336, 337, 338, 339, 340, 341, 342, 343, 344, 347, 348, 349, 350, 351, 352, 353, 354, 355, 357, 359, 360, 361, 362, 363, 368, 369, 371, 373, 374, 375, 377,
54
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
378, 379, 380, 381, 382, 383, 384, 385, 386, 387, 388, 389, 390, 391, 394, 396, 398, 400, 402, 403, 404, 405, 406, 407, 408, 409, 410, 411, 412, 413, 414, 417, 418, 420, 421, 424, 427, 428, 429, 430, 431, 432, 433, 435, 436, 437. Synopsis blank, incorrect or incomplete: Nos. 6, 9, 11, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, 24, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 34, 37, 38, 39, 40, 44, 46, 47, 48, 51, 54, 55, 58, 60, 61, 65, 66, 67, 73, 75, 76, 77, 79, 80, 81, 82, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 97, 99, 100, 101, 102,103, 104, 105, 110, 111, 112, 118, 119, 120, 121, 132, 133, 136, 138, 140, 141, 142, 143, 147, 148, 153, 154, 155, 156, 157, 158, 159, 160, 164, 165, 166, 167, 168, 170, 172, 173, 174, 176, 179, 180, 181, 183, 185, 186, 188, 189, 190, 191, 195, 196, 198, 199, 201, 202, 207, 208, 209, 210, 212,-214, 215, 218, 220, 222, 225, 227, 228, 232, 233, 234, 235, 236, 239, 240, 241, 242, 245, 246, 247, 248, 249, 250, 252, 253, 255, 256, 259, 261, 263, 264, 267, 270, 273, 280, 281, 285, 287, 291, 292, 299, 300, 301, 302, 304, 305, 306, 307, 310, 311, 312, 313, 315, 316, 318, 323, 324, 326, 329, 330, 331, 336, 338, 339, 340, 341, 342, 344, 347, 348, 350, 352, 353, 354, 355, 358, 360, 362, 363, 365, 366, 368, 373, 374, 375, 377, 380, 384, 385, 386, 387, 388, 390, 394, 396, 398, 399, 402, 404, 408, 409, 410, 412, 417, 419, 423, 424, 431, 435. Different colors of ink used on same page: Nos. 4, 5, 8, 15,19, 23, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30, 81, 33, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 43, 44, 46, 52, 54, 58, 61, «6, 69, 70, 71, 77, 79, 82, 85, 86, 88, 91, 94, 101, 103, 104, 106,110, 112, 113, 117, l i 8 , 119,120, 121, 131, 132, 133, 134, 139, 140, 141, 143, 144, 147, 148, 149, 150,151, 152, 153, 154, 155, 156, 157, 158, 165, 167, 171, 174, 176, 177, 179, 180, 181, 182, 184, 186, 188, 191, 195, 196, 199, 200, 206, 208, 210, 211, 212, 214, 216, 218, 219, 220, 222, 224, 228, 231, 234, 235, 237, 238, 240, 241, 242, 246, 252, 254, 260, 261, 264, 267, 269, 270, 278, 280, 281, 283, 286, 290, 291, 292, 293, 298, 301, 302, 306, 310, 315, 317, 319, 321, 322, 324, 325, 329, 331, 333, 342, 343, 344, 347, 348, 351, 352, 353, 354, 356, 360, 361, 366, 370, 371, 373, 374, 375, 379, 381, 386, '388, 389, 390, 394, 396, 402, 403, 406, 407, 408, 410, 413, 414, 415, 421, 424, 425, 426, 428, 431, 433. Incomplete list of officers: Nos. 14, 20, 22, 29, 37, 38, 41, 47, 56, 66, 71, 72, 73, 74, 77, 87, 88, 92, 97, 98, 104, 112, 119, 133, 137, 138, 141, 151, 154, 156,162, 168, 170, 174, 181, 189, 194, 198, 206, 207, 209, 210, 212, 215, 219, 220, 223, 228, 234, 238, 252, 268, 276, 277, 282, 285, 301, 302, 311, 313, 314, 321, 330, 340, 344, 349, 350, 352, 355, 357, 362, 377, 378, 385, 386, 392, 398, 401, 411, 412, 421, 424, 425, 433, 434, 435. Names in "List of'Members" in Annual Reports, but not in Book: Nos. 22, 24, 28, 30, 38, 40, 41, 43, 58, 73, 75, 90, 96, 133, 158, 161, 178, 183, 195, 201, 215, 220, 222, 228, 230, 239, 250, 267, 300, 301, 318, 324, 329, 330, 332, 341, 344, 377, 384, 386, 401, 404, 409, 417, 424, 428, 433, 436.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
55
Filing space partially or entirely blank: Nos. 3, 11, 13, 22, 25, 28, 30, 37, 38, 41, 44, 55, 61, 65, 66, 67, 70, 74, 76, 77, 79, 84, 87, 89, 99, 101, 107, 109, 112, 115, 119, 124, 125, 133, 138, 145, 151, 155, 156, 157, 162, 167, 170, 173, 175, 186, 193, 194, 195, 196, 198, 199, 206, 210, 211, 212, 215, 218, 220, 223, 234, 239, 242, 250, 252, 254, 256, 264, 267, 269, 270, 273, 274, 277, 278, 281, 285, 298, 300, 301, 302, 304, 305, 307, 309, 313, 318, 329, 338, 340, 341, 344, 349, 355, 357, 362, 365, 371, 373, 374, 376, 378, 379, 386, 388, 392, 393, 398, 402, 403, 410, 411, 412, 413, 414, 417,420,421,424,433,434,435. Names on Annual Reports under the headings of " Work Done," "Admission," "Dimission," "Suspension," "Restoration," "Death," and "Expulsion," but not on Book of Annual Returns, or on Book of Annual Returns and not on Report: Nos. 3, 6, 7, 16, 17, 21, 22, 24, 29, 30, 38, 39, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 51, 57, 59, 61, 67, 70, 74, 75, 76, 77, 81, 82, 89, 93, 99, 100, 101, 104, 106, 110, 112, 113, 115, 117, 118, 119, 121, 124, 134, 138, 140, 141, 142, 146, 148, 153, 156, 158, 159, 167, 174, 176, 177, 180, 181, 190, 191, 192, 195, 201, 206, 207, 212, 215, 218, 219, 220, 225, 233, 235, 239, 242, 246, 247, 252, 257, 258, 264, 266, 267, 273, 278, 282, 283, 300, 301, 304, 307, 311, 313, 315, 316, 320, 321, 324, 328, 330, 332, 338, 342, 343, 344, 348, 352, 357, 358, 360, 362, 365, 366, 368, 369, 370, 373, 379, 381, 382, 385, 390, 392, 396, 398, 400, 402, 404, 406, 410, 411,419,424,432,434,435. "Work Done" on wrong-page: Nos. 28, 33, 72, 73, 81, 82, 89,105, 108, 138, 156, 180, 210,'213, 220, 221, 231, 232, 233, 235, 239, 248, 257, 262, 276, 277, 283, 308, 309, 316, 318, 320, 327, 329, 334, 352, 361, 370, 373, 388, 407, 417. Ditto marks used: Nos. 32, 43, 54, 58,104,120,136,189, 240, 241, 281, 305, 320, 357, 362, 392, 406, 412. Roll of members either blank or incomplete: Nos. 30, 41, 82, 101, 104, 120, 138, 151,-158, 215, 234, 261, 301, 302, 304, 324, 353, 360, 365, 368,389,410,424,433,435. Abbreviations, initials and lead pencil used: Nos. 6, 36, 37, 46, 55, 73, 106, 309, 362, 402. Membership or "Work Done" entered under wrong year date: Nos. 1, 4, 30, 66, 99, 101, 118, 138, 142, 151, 160, 230, 265, 267,280, 318,374,402. Dates corrected on Annual Reports, but not on Book of Annual .Returns: Nos. 16, 123, 221,-405. Seal used: Nos. 25, 352, 359. The books from the following lodges were in such bad condition that your Grand Secretary feels special mention should be made concerning them:
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PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
No. 6: Done."
Book badly soiled and many dates blank under "Work
No. 7: lessly.
Binding loose, showing the book has been handled care-
No. 14:
Paper has been pasted on a part of the "Work Done."
No. 82: Names scratched and then written over and over, making a very unsightly record. No. 92:
Pages cut from roll.
No. 99: The membership as shown by the Book of Annual Returns and as reported in the Annual Report do not agree, names have been crossed off from the roll with lead pencil, blank lines were found in the roll, and the hst of officers pasted in. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No.
116: 151: 196: 202: 209: 211: 218: 220: 222: 244: 264: 267: 304: 308: 374: 406:
Pages turned down at corners and some cut off. Roll checked with a large cross, in blue pencil. Extra pages cut from roll. Roll written, crossed off and then written below. Names pasted on at end of roll. Roll in bad shape. Roll crossed off; then rewritten. Names pasted in on roll. Names pasted in on roll. "Work pasted on. Lines blank and lines drawn through names. Roll mutilated. Names backward on roll. Roll pasted on. Officers pasted on. Synopsis and money written over several times. BLANKS AND RECORD BOOKS.
This subject was presented by your Grand Secretary for a second time one year ago and for some reason it received no attention^at^the hands of the Committee on Reports of Grand Officers. The subject as presented, contemplated a change in Section 169 of the Grand Lodge Laws making it mandatory on all lodges to use only the form of blanks and record books appended to the Grand Lodge Laws or furnished by direction of the Grand Secretary. Gilli) ^ As this subject had been delayed for several years it was absolutely' necessary that all lodges be supplied with samples of the forms recommended for use. Your Grand Secretary, therefore, arranged with Crane & Company of Topeka to prepare 550 sets of sample blanks and pages of record books, one copy of which was mailed to every lodge in our jurisdiction and a receipt taken therefor. As the preparation of these sample forms required the printing of upwards of 25,000 blanks, to
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE OF KANSAS.
57
which is to be added the expense of envelopes, postage and addressing, your Grand Secretary felt justified in requiring a receipt, not only this year but in the future, in order that every Secretary may have in his possession a set of sainples from which he can order the approved forms. In addition to this, where a set is lost, the lodge should be required to pay one dollar for another set. ASSISTANT TO GRAND SECRETARY.
The allowance of $1,800.00 made for an Assistant to the Grand Secretary under By-Law 48, is not sufficient to secure the services of a competent brother to fill this important position, and your Grand Secretary would recommend that this amount be changed to $3,600.00 and that the law be amended accordingly. CARD FORM OP OFFICIAL RECEIPT.
The time has come when there is a general demand for the more convenient form of card receipt for dues instead of the paper. These receipts are not of the heavy card board quality, but are quite flexible, made of strong material and are much more convenient for the average pocketbook. Such receipts will add somewhat to the cost, but in view of the number of requests reaching your Grand Secretary it is his opinion that lodges will gladly pay the additional price in order to have the receipts in this form. It would not be necessary to change the wording of our present form of receipt for dues as it could be used on the card just as well as in the paper form. This subject is therefore submitted for consideration at this Annual Communication. ILLEGAL SUSPENSION OF MEMBERS FOR NON-PAYMENT OF DUES.
The attention of the Grand Lodge is again called to the great number of members who are suspended in violation of the provisions of Sections 124 and 125 of our Grand Lodge Laws, and which places the question of suspension in jeopardy. , At the Annual Communication in 1923, the Committee on Jurisprudence to whom this subject had been referred, offered no amendment to the law, but recommended that lodges be more careful in the observance of the law requiring that no member shall be suspended until he has been regularly served with a second notice. This recommendation only went to the lodges through our Annual Proceedings, and the reports for the succeeding year plainly show that this recommendation has had no effect whatever on the violation of the law. If Section 125 was so amended that the second notice could not legally be mailed to a brother after a specific date then the question of legal suspension would be absolutely settled and your Grand Secretary
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PROCEEDINGS
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February,
would have no trouble in arriving at a conclusion as to those who are or are not legally suspended. It is hoped this subject will again be given attention at this Communication. As evidence of the violation of the provisions of the law, your Grand Secretary, by carefully reviewing the annual reports for 1924, finds that 250 members were suspended for non-payment of dues between July 1, and December 31, 1924. It is manifest that the provisions of Section 125 of the Grand Lodge By-Laws were ignored, presuming that the first notice was issued as provided in Section 124. If such notices were not issued the suspensions were illegal on their face. Among those to which reference is made above your Grand Secretary calls attention to several cases in particular where the suspensions were at the very close of the year: Kickapoo Lodge No. 4, Potter, suspended 3 on December 27, 1924. Rising Sun Lodge No. 8, Fort Scott, suspended 8 on December 19, 1924. Oketo Lodge No. 25, suspended 2 on December 31, 1924. Sunflower Lodge No. 86, Wichita, suspended 8 on December.23, 1924. Reno Lodge No. 140, Hutchinson, suspended 28 on December 25, 1924. Hancock Lodge No. 311, Fort Leavenworth, suspended 11 on December 31, 1924. TRANSCRIPT OF TRIALS.
During the year transcripts of trials from the following lodges were forwarded to M.\W.'. ELRICK C . COLE, Chairman of the Committee on Jurisprudence, for review and report at this Annual Communication: Appeals from the decision of Patmos Lodge No. 97 of El Dorado; Paola Lodge No. 37; Reno Lodge No. 140 of Hutchinson; Phillipsburg Lodge No. 184; Corner Stone Lodge No. 219 of Little River. PARADISE LODGE NO. 2 9 0 , PLAINVILLE.
Notwithstanding Paradise Lodge is one of the smaller ones in this jurisdiction, having only 133 members at the close of 1923, yet so far as your Grand Secretary has any knowledge it is the only lodge which publishes a pamphlet each year giving a complete report not only of the year's business, but a list of the membership, giving the dates when they became members. I t also includes a list of their Past Masters and Secretaries, giving the years they served, a Ust of their charter members, and under a special head styled " In Memoriam " they give a complete list of the names and dates of all the brethren of their lodge who have laid down the working tools of life. Their last report, being the thirtyfifth, is on the desk of the Grand Secretary and the brethren are at liberty to examine it.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS..
59
THE JAMES M, MCPARLAND LIBRARY.
From time to time your Grand Secretary, who is likewise the Librarian of the Grand Lodge, has reported annual additions in the way of books, magazines, periodicals and the like, as well as calling attention to the importance of our library to the Craft throughout this Grand Jurisdiction, and during all these years great care has been exercised in seeing that the property was kept in good condition, properly assorted and filed, and always ready for use. With but few exceptions these additions have been works along Masonic lines, no effort being made to build up a mixed or general reference library. While this is true, there is no reason why we should not have in the library a high class of standard works and books written by the most distinguished scholars of all ages. To provide such books would require a very great expenditure of funds, and in the judgment of your Grand Secretary the time had not yet arrived to carry out this line of work. This was the condition of our present library, in 1916, when an opportunity was presented for the Grand Lodge to receive as a gift one of the best private libraries in our State. In order to make this matter plain and place on permanent record the complete history of the gift of the JAMES M . MCFARLAND Library to the Grand Lodge, it will be necessary to preface the same with a few semi-personal remarks as to the friendship which existed for a great many years between JAMES M. MCFARLAND and your Grand Secretary. It was the pleasure of the writer not only to have had the personal acquaintance and friendship of Mr. JAMES M . MCFARLAND, but likewise that of his father, the late N. C. MCFARLAND, who for many years was United States Land Commissioner at Washington. His son, JAMES M. MCFARLAND, in early life and while attending collegp, took an active part in athletics, and during his lifetime manifested the same interest in these sports as he did in his younger days, although when at the zenith of his career in acquiring an education he was stricken with almost total paralysis, leaving him so helpless it was difficult for him to walk or exercise the usual functions of a person enjoying good health. On account of this condition his mind drifted into literary channels, and during the remainder of his years he devoted practically all of'his time to reading and the accumulation of the works of the best known writers and authors throughout the world, with the result that at the time of his death he had possibly one of the choicest private libraries in this country. Your Grand Secretary was under obligations to Mr. MCFARLAND for valuable information regarding books in general, and in our years of acquaintance the conversation was almost invariably turned to the subject of books, authors and other matters of a literary nature. With advancing years his love for books became more acute, and indeed took the form of bibliomania. It was interesting to listen to his stories of certain books, some of which he prized much more than others, in fact
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PROCEEDINGS
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February,
his reference to some was pathetic, and in speaking of them tears would often come to his eyes. Indeed, his love for his books was unbounded. The time finally came when he realized that his work in this life would soon be over, and with it came the thought of the care and preservation of his books. It was on Sunday, March 19, 1916, that Mr. MCFARLAND requested your Grand Secretary to call at his home to discuss the matter of presenting his library to the Grand Lodge. As he understood it plans were being made for the construction of a fireproof Grand Lodge Building. He stated that he had long since made up his mind to place his library where it would be kept.intact and safe from fire. Many time in conversation with your Grand Secretary he had expressed his admiration for our Institution, and only regretted that on account of his physical disability he was debarred from becoming a member thereof. Having such a favorable opinion of the Fraternity he felt that he could safely place these books in charge of the Grand Lodge, feeling confident that his wishes would be respected as to their care and preservation. With this thought in mind he desired to know whether our Grand Lodge would accept such a gift, as he desired to provide in his will for the disposition of his library. Not having authority to speak for the Grand Lodge the writer could only express his personal views, and in so doing stated that he, could see no reason why a gift of this kind would not be accepted and highly prized. This being satisfactory, Mr. M C FARLAND stated that such provision would be made, and asked for advice as to the form to be used in making this provision. He was fully advised, and nothing further developed until 1917, at which time our Council of Administration was composed of M.". W.'. CHARLES E . LoBDELL, Grand Master; R.-.W.'. WILLIAM I. STUART, Deputy Grand Master; R.-.W.-. OWEN J. WOOD, Grand Senior Warden and R.-.W.-. HUGH P. FARRELLY, Grand Junior Warden, when Mr. MCFARLAND
asked the privilege of placing his library in the Grand Lodge Building as a protection against possible loss by fire. The matter was taken up with the Council of Administration, (the Grand Master not being present) and it was decided that the request would be granted provided Mr. MCFARLAND would make the gift outright at that time. Being familiar with the peculiarities of Mr. MCFARLAND your Grand Secretary knew full well that a request of this kind would be met with derision, and therefore simply suggested to him that the matter be allowed to rest where it was for the time being. At the time he first talked with your Grand Secretary and proposed the wilhng of his library to the Grand Lodge, it was understood that this should be kept in strict confidence and no mention made of it to any one. His wishes were respected until your Grand Secretary was granted the privilege of explaining it to our Council of Administration when his request was made for the placing of the library in the new building.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
61
Nothing further developed until 1920, at which time Mr. McFARLAND had sold his property and was compelled to move his library. He then repeated his request to place these books in our Grand Lodge Building, which called for the performance of two duties by your Grand Secretary—one to the Grand Lodge and the other to a friend. The first, that of serving the best interests of the Grand Lodge, contemplated one of two things—submitting the request to the Council of Administration with the fear that it would be met with a requirement similar to the one heretofore made, and which your Grand Secretary knew full well would not be acceptable to Mr. MCFARLAND, or assuming the authority to place these books in the Grand Lodge Library. The second duty was that which one friend owes to another when sorely in need of assistance, or in other words, the time had come when this wonderful collection of books must be disposed of either by gift or otherwise. • After giving this matter most careful thought and consideration, and in view of the fact that the placing of these books in the Grand Lodge Building meant that in the course of a very short time they would become the property of the Grand Lodge, your Grand Secretary assumed all responsibility, and gra:nted the request of Mr. MCPARLAND, and on May 18-19, 1920, these books were placed on the second tier of shelves in the Grand Lodge Library. In order that there might be no embarrassment should Mr. MCFARLAND change his plans and otherwise dispose of these books, they were kept intact and no reference whatever made to their being placed in the Masonic Grand Lodge Building. On April 24,1924, Mr. MCFARLAND died, and soon thereafter your Grand Secretary was notified by the executor of the estate that under the terms of the will the MCFARLAND Library was bequeathed to the Grand Lodge. The following is a copy of that portion of the will covering this subject': . " I I . I give, devise and bequeath to the Grand Lodge Library, A. F. & A. M., of Kansas, located at Eighth Avenue and Harrison Street, in the city of Topeka, Shawnee County, Kansas, my library which is now in its possession, with the exception of the Family Bible, which I give, devise .and bequeath to JAMBS M . MCFARLAND, of Topeka, Kansas. The bequest to the Grand Lodge Library of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas, located at Topeka, Kansas, is upon the condition that my said library shall forever be held intact by the said Grand Lodge Library." (The JAMES M . MCFARLAND here referred to is a relative of the testator.) Most of the books in this library were cataloged by Mr. M C FARLAND, the legend and number being entered on the inside of the front cover. In order to make the books easier of access your Grand Secretary has had labels made and pasted on the back of each. When this portion of the work was completed it was found there were five thousand six hundred eighty-six books.
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PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
In the classification of these books for the purpose of cataloging they were designated under the following heads or legend: A History. B • Biography. . C Napoleon. D Fiction. E Drama. F Poetry. G Art. H Travels and Description. I Literatures. J Essays. K Philosophy. L Science. M Oratory. N Reference. O Miscellaneous. In the selection of books no consideration was given to the price, and as many of them are of editions where only a limited number were printed, they are almost beyond value, and in some cases he has been offered as much as two thousand five hundred dollars per copy. The total cost of this library to Mr. MCFARLAND was about fifty thousand dollars. Your Grand Secretary submits the foregoing with the recommendation that his action in assuming the authority as outlined above be approved, and that the Grand Lodge accept this magnificent gift in accordance with the terms of the will. OIL PAINTING OF KICHARD R.' REES.
In designing our Masonic Grand Lodge Building particular attention was given to the ornate features of both the interior and exterior, and in deciding upon the style of architecture we had in mind a type in keeping with the traditions of the Craft, which resulted in the selection of what is known as the Roman Ionic style of building. In the finishing of the interior of the building, as well as the selection of the furniture, fixtures and equipment, nothing but the best was considered, and when the time came for decorating the walls it was necessary that this work be done so as to harmonize with the rest of the building. In order to carry out this plan of decoration certain embellishments, such as pictures and a high class of paintings, were necessary. With this in view your Grand Secretary extended to Wyandotte Lodge No. 3 of Kansas City; Orient Lodge No. 51 of Topeka; Wichita Lodge No. 99 of Wichita; Pittsburg Lodge No. 187 of Pittsburg, and Albert Pike Lodge No. 303 of Wichita, being at the time the largest lodges in this jurisdiction, an opportunity of memorializing their lodges by presenting an oil painting to the Grand Lodge. In due time all the above lodges, except Orient Lodge No. 51 of Topeka, accepted the
1924-25.
GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS.
63
suggestion and presented the Grand Lodge with beautiful oil paintings, all of which are works of art. A full report covering these gifts, as well as copies of the pictures, appears in our 1922 Proceedings. In addition to the above, as reported in our 1923 Proceedings, Brothers CHARLIE E. CALE and ARTHUR S. FARMER presented another magnificent oil painting 4 Y2x6 feet in dimension, which has been placed
on the east wall of the rotunda, and to these brethren much credit is due for the embellishment of the entrance to our building. Notwithstanding all of these beautiful works of art, which will be a lasting memorial to the lodges and brethren contributing them, yet at the time the plans were drawn for our present Grand Lodge Building, your Grand Secretary had in mind a certain space in the rotunda for the: placing of an oil painting of the one Mason who will always be the
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PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
outstanding figure in the annals of the Craft in this jurisdiction, M.-.W/. RICHARD R. R E E S .
In order to inform those of our brethren who are not familiar with the Masonic life work of this distinguished brother, your Grand Secretary submits the following brief resume: He was indeed a pioneer of Masonry in Kansas, being the first Master of Leavenworth Lodge No. 2, and assisted in the formation of our Grand Lodge, being elected first Grand Master and served in that capacity for five successive years; likewise the first High Priest of Leavenworth Chapter No. 2, and assisted in the formation of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Kansas, being elected first Grand High Priest and served in that capacity for three successive years. He was the first Master of Leavenworth Council No. 1, and assisted in the formation of the Grand Council of Royal and Select Masters of Kansas, being the first Grand' Master; and likewise was the first Generalissimo ; of Leavenworth Commandery No. 1, and assisted in the formation of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Kansas, and-at the time of his death on November 19, 1875, was Deputy Grand Commander. He was a devoted Mason and his zeal for the Institution continued until his life's work was over. His annual addresses, based. on the Fundamentals as well as the Ancient Charges and Landmarks of Freemasonry, are indeed monuments to his memory. He was unrelenting in his adherence to those principles upon which the whole structure of Freemasonry is erected. His Masonic life was clustered in and around the city of Leavenworth. To those who were best acquainted with him he was known as " U N C L E D I C K , " and it is sad to relate t h a t at the present time but one
member is living in that city who knew him personally—W.'. Brother EDWARD W . OSGOOD.
I t is within the recollection of your Grand
Secretary when the name of RICHARD R . R E E S was a household term in the several Masonic bodies of the city of Leavenworth. With the above in mind, the writer conceived, the idea of extending to the Craft of Leavenworth, composed of Leavenworth Lodge No. 2, King Solomon Lodge No. 10, Hiram Lodge No. 68, Leavenworth Chapter No. 2, Leavenworth Council No. 1, and Leavenworth Commandery No. 1, the privilege of memorializing the Masonic bodies of that city by presenting a picture of this distinguished brother to the Grand Lodge, In accordance therwith, a meeting was held in Leavenworth on ' April 29, 1924, with the oflftcers and other members interested, at which time your Grand Secretary called attention to the importance of such a picture to the Craft in general, and the Masonic bodies of Leavenworth in particular. After a full discussion, although there was not the slightest opposition manifested, it was the unanimous expression of the brethren present that all the Masonic bodies of Leavenworth join in making this gift'. In due time the matter was presented to the several lodges, chapter, council and commandery, with the result that your Grand Sec-retary was authorized to carry out the plan suggested at the original
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
65
meeting. The work of painting the picture was then placed in the hands of GEORGE M . STONE, considered oiie of the best portrait artists in the country, and who gave it special attention, even to the extent of going to Leavenworth and consulting with Brother OSGOOD in regard to the personal features and some of the general characteristics of Brother REES. The painting was completed, framed and hung, November 4, 1924. It is artificially lighted and is in plain view of every one as they enter the Grand Lodge Building. The painting and placing of the portrait of M.\ W.'. Brother RICHARD R . REES in this particular place in our Grand Lodge Building is the fulfillment of a dream of your Grand Secretary, and whether he accomplishes anything in the future which will be of value to the Craft, he feels that this work is the cap-sheaf of his official career as Grand Secretary. BOND OF GRAND TREASURER.
Notice has been received from the bonding company that the premium on the bond of $35,000.00 for our Grand Treasurer has been raised from $70.00 to $87.50. GRAND SECRETARY'S CERTIFICATES.
During the year the following Grand Secretary's certificates have been issued: . No. 806. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No.
807. 808. 809. 810. 811. 812. 813. 814. 815. 816. 817. 818.
JOHN J. HARRIS, Perfect Square Lodge No. 220, Scranton, Kansas. . . ALVIN C . BEST, Allen Lodge U. D., Allen, Kansas. CHARLES E . CAREY, Allen Lodge U. D., Allen, Kansas. WILLIAM E . DAVIS, Allen Lodge U. D., Allen, Kansas. THADDBUS B . DAVIS; Alien Lodge U. D., Allen, Kansas. DON A . LARKINS, Allen Lodge U. D., Allen, Kansas. CYRIL L . LEA YELL, Allen Lodge U. D., Allen, Kansas. JENNINGS B . MOUNKES, Allen Lodge U. D., Allen, Kansas. EDWIN C . MCCASH, Allen Lodge U. D., Allen, Kansas. NEAL M . MCINNIS, Allen Lodge U. D., Allen, Kansas. CLARENCE A. REABOURN, Allen Lodge U. D., Allen, Kansas. FRANK J. ST. BONNETT, Allen Lodge U. D., Allen, Kansas. ALFRED S. COFFMAN, Allen Lodge No. 335, Allen, Kansas. OFFICIAL CIRCULARS
The following communications have been issued during the year: No. 291. Communication relative to sending in Books of Annual Returns. No. 292. Identification certificate and instructions to ticket agents in connection with application for reduced rates. No. 293. OflScial circular Annual Communication Grand Lodge, 1924. No. 294. Suggested remarks by Grand Secretary for use in presenting Shaver's Monitor to a candidate when Raised.
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PROCEEDINGS
No. 295. No; 296. No. 297. No. 298. No. 299. No. 300. No. 301. No. 302.
OF THE
February,
Communication giving amended Section 170 of the Grand Lodge Laws, concerning Certificates for Transfer of Membership. Communication concerning bequests to the Kansas Masonic Home. Communication concerning the dissemination of Masonic Light and Knowledge among the Craft. Communication concerning sets of sample standard blanks, and receipt therefor. Communication relative to amendments to Grand Lodge . Laws. Request for amount of railroad fare to Wichita and Topeka. Memorial for M.-.W.-. WATSON MILLER LAMB. Memorial for M.-.W.'.EDWARD WINSLOW WELLINGTON.
ESTIMATED REVENUE AND EXPENSES FOR THE ENSUING YEAR.
Revenue. Fifty cents per capita on 75,265 $37,632 50 Charter fees ; 160 00 Miscellaneous 3,500 00 Amount from Grand Chapter, Grand Council and Grand Commandery toward maintenance of building 1,425 00 Expenses. Assistant t o Grand Secretary 1,800 00 Committee allowance (By-Law 49) 150 00 Expenses Grand Lodge Communication: 375 00 Expenses and per diem of Lecturer 1,500 00 Grand Secretary's incidentals 1,200 00 Grand Treasurer's bond premium 87 50 Grand Secretary's bond premium 10 00 Grand Master's contingent fund 1,000 00 Grand Master's salary '. 800 00 Grand Treasurer's salary 100 00 Grand Secretary's salary 1,800 00 Grand Secretary's honorarium 1,200 00 Grand Master's apron 61 50 Grand Officers' portraits 60 00 Historical Registry and Abstract :.... 300 00 Library furniture, binding, etc 1,000 00 .Mileage to Representatives (By-Law 51) ; 3,000 00 Mileage and expenses (By-Laws 49 and 50) 1,500 00 Minor salaries (By-Law 48) 135 00 Office and Library Building 2,000 00 Printing Annual Proceedings 3,200 00 Postage and express ; 600 00 Private Secretary, Grand Master 600 00 Salary Chairman Committee on Correspondence (By-Law 49) 300 00 Stationery and Printing 800 00 Stenographic and Clerical help 3,000 00 Taxes 3,000 00
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE OF KANSAS.
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ANNUAL ELECTION.
Another careful review has been made of the annual reports concerning the time of holding the annual election in the lodges, and notr withstanding the report one year ago on this same subject, and the warning given lodges which made this mistake we find that the following held their elections at a time not authorized by the Constitution: Frontier Lodge No. 104, Washington; Norton Lodge No. 199 Friendship Lodge No. 208, Haven; Westmoreland Lodge No. 257 Caney Lodge No. 324; Zenda Lodge No. 378; Mayetta Lodge No. 393 Wilmore Lodge No. 412. Caney Lodge No. 324 is the only one in the above list which repeated the offense this year, and this notwithstanding the admonition given them, and the requirement of a fee of $5.00 for a special dispensation to hold a legal election. Alden Lodge No. 308 held their election at a Special Communication. The following lodges failed to fill in any date showing when their annual election was held, indicating gross carelessness on the part of the Secretary: Towanda No. 30; DeSoto No. 40; Halstead No. 46; Fortitude No. 107, Independence; Godfrey No. 124, Farlington; Lenexa No. 135; Signal No. 141, Osage City; Sabetha No. 162; Oxford No. 165; Western Star No. 174, Smith Center; Pittsburg No. 187; Newahcuba No. 189, Stockton; Hays No. 195; Landmark No. 218, Mound Valley; Lebanon No. 221, Scandia; UrbanaNo. 239; CanopyNo. 248, Grenola; Whiting No. 250; Stafford No. 252; Attica No. 262; Emerald No. 289, Lakin; Oak Hill No. 334; Jennings No. 360; Cuba No.'362; Powh a t t a n N o . 363; Wakefield No. 396; Wakarusa No. 402; Scranton No. 407; Deerfield No. 432. The following lodges did not indicate the date for holding their Stated Communications and are deserving of attention at the hands of the Grand Lodge: Pacific No. 29, Humboldt; Towanda No. 30; Havensville No. 34; Signal No. 141, Osage City; Sabetha No. 162; Farmers No. 166, Randolph; Pittsburg No. 187; LandmarkNo. 218, Mound Valley; Lebanon No. 221, Scandia; Urbana No. 239; Canopy No. 248, Grenola; Stafford No. 252; Attica No. 262; Jennings No. 860; Burdick No. 429; Deerfield No. 432. ANNUAL REPORTS.
The summary for 1924, together with the synopsis of returns, reflects the various changes in membership during the past year, as well as the number of members on the rolls at the close of the year, based on reports from all the lodges.
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PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
The receipt of the reports was only brought about through urgent appeals by the Grand Secretary, aided by telegraph and telephone service. Attention is again called to the fact that the REAL culprit is not the Secretary who withholds sending in his report until the eleventh hour, but the one who sends in an incorrect report and when it is returned for correction pays no attention to the urgent request of the Grand Secretary that the report be corrected and mailed back at once, but ignores all letters, telegrams, and appeals of the District Deputy Grand Master. Such secretaries are the ones deserving of censure at the hands of the Grand Lodge. Kincaid Lodge No. 338 and Buffalo Lodge No. 379 are deserving of special mention. I t would seem from the indifference shown by the secretaries of these lodges that it would be for the best interest of the Craft to consider the advisability of continuing these lodges on the rolls. The subject should at least be given careful consideration by the incoming Grand Master. Scammon Lodge No. 351 is possibly deserving of more attention at the hands of the incoming Grand Master than the other two lodges. I t required an exchange of three letters and four telegrams to secure the report from this lodge, in addition to the efforts put forth by the District Deputy Grand Master. A telegram from the Master stated the report had been mailed on Monday, January 11th, although Monday was the 12th, and the post mark on the envelope plainly showed it was mailed at 3:00 o'clock in the afternoon of the 12th. In addition to the above there were many other irregularities which no doubt will be given attention by the proper committee. It was necessary to return ninety-three reports for correction, and almost as many remittances where mistakes were made in computing the amount of Grand Lodge dues and fees. It is to be regretted that the number of lodges failing to transmit their report within the time provided by law is greater than one year ago and we list the following under this head: Cherryvale Lodge No. 137, Cherryvale. Glen Elder Lodge No. 294, Glen Elder. Kincaid Lodge No. 338, Kincaid. Scammon Lodge No. 351, Scammon. • Buffalo Lodge No. 379, Buffalo. Two lodges failed to pay their Grand Lodge dues and fees within the time required by law—Washington Lodge No. 5 of Atchison, and Buffalo Lodge No. 379 of Buffalo. The latter lodge failed in both particulars. There is another class which is distinctive if not unique, and it consists of the lodges which send in an incorrect remittance within the time •required by law, and when such remittances are returned for correction
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
69
they withhold sending in the correct amount until after the Grand Secretary has closed all accounts, yet these lodges, under the law, are entitled to representation and mileage to Grand Lodge; indeed, under the present law there is nothing to prevent this class of lodges from withholding the payment of their dues and fees until the next annual report is submitted. It is therefore recommended that this matter receive attention at this Communication. The lodges failing in this particular and whose remittances were not received at the time of closing the accounts are as follows: Tuscan No. 82, Neosho Falls; Home No. 89, Ceritralia; Madison No. 196; Landmark No. 218, Mound Valley; Cosmos No. 278, Kiowa; Oak Hill No. 334; Glen Elder No. 394. It will be noted from the summary for 1924 that our net gain was not quite equal t o that of the year previous, being 192 less than t h a t shown in the 1923 report. Our total membership at the close of t h e year was 78,041.
SUMMARY FOR 1924.
Number members December 31, 1923
75,265
Increase. Number Number Number Number Number Number Number
initiated passed raised admitted restored omitted last report members lodges U. D
4,262 4,061
!
4,095 833 188 6 204=5,326 Decrease.
NumbeiNumber Number Number Number Number
dimitted died suspended expelled erroneously reported members Allen Lodge U. D
Net gain Number members December 31, 1924
:
1,103 844 557 18 5 23=2,550 2,776 78,041
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GRAND
1924-25.
No. 53.. 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65; 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 83 84 85 86 87 88 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 103 104....: 105 106 107 108 109 110
:....
•.
;. •
.• :
: ;
LODGE
OF
Grand Lodge Dues. $ 96 00 141 00 97 00 135 00 62 00 116 00 133 00 1,063 00 106 00 159 00 146 00 124 00 120 00 193 00 140 00 278 00 50 00 121 00 192 00 ' 64 00 107 00 422 00 163 00 161 00 184 00 79 00 179 00 240 00 47 00 73 00 96 00 96 00 1,104 00 103 00 135 00 699 00 268 00 86 00 245 00 300 00 280 00 118 00 923 00 380 00 1,362 00 214 00 100 00 636 00 485 00 126 00 132 00 255 00 • 740 00 60 00 69 00 467 00
71
KANSAS.
Fees on Raisings. $ 20 00 50 00 10 00 35 00 25 00 25 00 55 00 420 00 30 00 45 00 30 00 30 00 80 00 45 00 65 00 20 00 10 00 120 00 20 00 50 00 95 00 25 00 15 00 80 00 20 00 25 00 80 00 15 35 15 345 15 60 220 85 30 65 85 55 30 415 65 500 35 30 170 50 30 15 70 320 5 15 125
00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 , 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00
Total. 116 00 191 00 107 00 170 00 87 00 141 00 188 00 1,483 00 136 00 204 00 176 00 154 00 120 00 273 00 185 00 343 00 70 00 131 00 312 00 '84 00 157 00 517 00 188 00 176 00 264 00 99 00 204 00 320 00 47 00 88 00 131 00 111 00 1,449 00 " 118 00 195 00 919 00 ' 353 00 116 00 310 00 385 00 335 00 148 00 1,338 00 445 00 1,862 00 249 00 130 00 806 00 535 00 156 00 , 147 00 325 00 1.060 00 65 00 84 00 592 00
$
72
PROCEEDINGS
No. Ill 112 113 114 115 116 117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124 125 126 127 128 129 130 131 132 133 134 135 136 137 138 139 140 141 142 143 144 145 146
Grand Lodge Dues. $ 117 00 76 00 :. 306 00 202 00 64 00 74 00 677 00 112 00 160 00 233 00 137 00 100 00 64 00 32 00 ;... 104 00 33 00 77 00 71 00 229 00 73 00 63 00 100 00 590 00 244 00 68 00 214 00 264 00 70 00 107 00 915 00 167 00 657 00 167 00 •. 216 00 263 00 240 00
•
..•
OF THE
147....-
246 00
148 149 150 151 152 153 154 •. 155 156 157..: 158 159 160..... 161 162 163 164 165... 166 167
193 00 96 00 488 00 237 00 134 00 84 00 204 00 123 00 113 00 99 00 363 00 78 00 179 00 117 00 205 00 62 00 182 00 87 00 86 00 282 00
:
; :......;
February,
Fees on Raisings. i 45 00 40 00 70 00 65 00 40 00 15 00 75 00 40 00 60 00 70 00 40 00 15 00 15 00 20 00 10 00 5 00 25 00 15 00 45 00 30 10 220 30 15 60 20 25 25 120 15 100 15 40 60 60 25 30 5 210 85
00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00
35 45 35 55 30 60 10 50 50 60 25 50 10 5 65
00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00
Total. 162 00 116 00 376 00 267 00 104 00 89 00 752 00 152 00 220 00 303 00 177 00 115 00 79 00 52 00 • 114 00 38 00 102 00 86 00 274 00 73 00 93 00 110 00 810 00 • 274 00 83 00 274 00 284 00 95 00 132 00 1,035 00 182 00 757 00 182 00 256 00 323 00 300 00 271 00 223 00 101 00 698 00 322 00 134 00 119 00 249 00 158 00 168 00 129 00 423 00 88 00 229 00 167 00 265 00 87 00 232 00 97 00 91 00 347 00
1924-25.
No. 168..... 169 170 171 172 173 174 175 176 177 178 179 180 181 182 183 184 185....; 186 187 188 189 190 191 192 193 194 195 197 198 199 200 201 202 203. 204 205 206 207 208 209. 210 211 212 213....'. 214 215 216 217 219 220 221..... 222 223 224 225 226
GRAND
;
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
Grand Lodge Fees on Dues. Raisings : $ 47 00 $ 10 00 152 0035 00 46 00 265 00 40 00 287 00 55 00 128 00 15 00 169 00 ....• 152 OO 25 00 115 00 15 00 139 00 , 35 00 82 00 15 00 196 00 10 00 93 00 20 00 102 00 5 00 • 125 00' 5 00 129 00 15 00 204 00 15 00 85 00 30 00 164 00 25 00 1,284 00 385 00 167 00 20 00 142 00 . 20 00 120 00 5 00 167 00 -15 00 207 00 20 00 139 00 50 00 164 00 45 00 216 00 65 00 177 00 20 00 98 00 10 00 215 00 75 00 214 00 20 00 168 00 20 00 67 00 202 00 25 00 173 00 20 00 121 00 35 00 193 00 30 00 ;... 120 00 15 00 97 00 10 00 : 84 00 15 00 97 00 30 00 51 00 15 00 104 00 75 00 110 00 20 00 75 00 25 00 ; 46 00 5 00 49 00 55 00 95 00 20 00 124 00 30 00 94 00 10 00 115 00 15 00 474 00 100 00 125 00 70 00 101 00 10 001,023 00 165 00 54 00 5 00
73
Total. 57 00 187 00 46 00 305 00 342 00 143 00 169.00 177 00 130 00 174 00 97 00 206 00 113 00 • 107 00 130 00 144 00 219 00 115 00 189 00 1,669 00 187 00 162 00 125 00 182 00 227 00 189 00 209 00 281 00 197 00 108 00 290 00 234 00 188 00 67 00 227 00 193 00 ' 156 00 223 00 135 00 107 00 99 00 127 00 66 00 179 00 130 00 100 00 51 00 104 00 115 00 154 00 104 00 130 00 574 00 195 00 111 00 1,188 00 59 00 $
74
PROCEEDINGS
THE VHE
Grand Lodge Dues.
•No. 227 228 229 230 231 232 233: 234 235 236 237 238 239 240 241 242 243 244 245 246 247 248 249 250 251 252 253 254 256 257 258 259 260 261 262 263 264. 265 266 267 268 269 270 271.. 272 273 274 275 276 277 279 280 281 282 283 284 285
OF
$
:
; .•
87 00 • 46 00 105 00 181 00 71 00 :.... 120 00 : 125 00 117 00 • 65 00 163 00 128 00 104 00 45 00 65 00 75 00' 108 00 125 00 104'00 117 00 227 00 62 00 • 64 00 83 00 82 00 37 00 198 00 110 00 168 00 127 00 • 87 00 148 00 70 00 59 00 152 00 76 00 92 00 97 00 249 00 128 00 128 00 88 00 195 00 103 00 537 00 778 00 84 00 153 00 120 00 45 00 102 00 75 00 96 00 134 00 83 00 113 00 96 00 55 00
February,
Fees on Raisings. $
20 00 20 00 5 00 40 00 30 00 35 00 30 00 10 00 5 00 40 00 50 00 20 00 5 00 15 00 15 00 60 00 10 00 40 00 25 00 35 00 10 00 5 00 10 00 20 45 15 15 20 10 5 20 25 20 10 30 55 85 10 20 45 20 325 215 15 30 15 10 30 10 15 25 15 10 10 30
00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00
Total. $
107 00 66 00 110 00 221 00 101 00 155 00 155 00 127 00 70 00 203 00 178 00 124 00 60 00 80 00 90 00 168 00 135 00 144 00 142 00 262 00 72 00 69 00 93 00 82 00 37 00 218 00 155 00 183 00 142 00 107 00 153 00 75 00 79 00 177 00 96 00 102 00 127 00 304 00 213 00 138 00 108 00 240 00 123 00 862 00 993 00 99 00 183 00 135 00 55 00 132 00 85 00 111 00 159 00 98 00 123 00 106 00 85 00
1924-25.
No. 286... 287... 288... 289... 290... 291... 292... 293... 294... 295... 296... 297... 298... 299... 300... 301... 302... 303... 304... 305... 306... 307... 308... 309... 310... 311... 312... 313... 314... 315... 316... 317... 318... 319... 320... 321... 322... 323... 324... 325... 326... 327... 328... 329... 330... 331... 332... 333... 336... 337... 338... 339... 340... 341... 342... 343... 344...
GRAND
LODGE
OF
Grand Lodge Dues. .$ 88 00 134 00 72 00 100 00 139 00 92 00 93 00 102 00 115 00 118 00 64 00 170 00 118 00 106 00 156 00 108 00 63 00 . 2,264 00 51 00 70 00 155 00 346 00 67 00 143 00 107 00 541 00 32 00 63 00 78 00 170 00 46 00 67 00 74 00 113 00 65 00 242 00 539 00 68 00 258 00 108 00 311 00 97 00 81 00 108 00 110 00 185 00 93 00 400 00 120 00 49 00 93 00 53 00 45 00 166 00 57 00 110 00 119 00
75
KANSAS.
Fees on Raisings. $ 5 00 10 00 25 00 20 00 45 00 20 15 75 35 50 35 5 15 15 50
00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00
845 5 15 25 65 40 35 20 85 10
00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00
45 45 5 20 35 15
00 00 00 00 00 00
80 180 25 15 45 50 35 20 40 20 40 10 170 40 15 10 35 10 35 5 20 20
00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00
$
Total. 93 00 144 00 97 00 120 00 184 00 92 00 113 00 117 00 190 00 153 00 114 00 205 00 123 00 121 00 171 00 158 00 63 00 3,109 00 56 00 85 00 180 00 411 00 107 00 178 00 127 00 626 00 42 00 63 00 123 00 215 00 51 00 87 00 109 00 128 00 65 00 322 00 719 00 93 00 273 00 153 00 361 00 132 00 101 00 148 00 130 00 225 00 103 00 570 00 160 00 64 00 103 00 88 00 55 00 201 00 62 00 130 00 139 00
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1924-25.
GRAND
No. 404 405 406 :. 407 408 409 410 411 412 413 414 415 416 417 418 419 420 421 422 423 424 425 ... 426 427 428 429 430.. 431 432 •.. 433 434 435 436 437 438 439 U. D. Bendena U. D. Johnson U. D. Allen U. D. Rexford U. D. Kanoradc... U. D. Stanley U. D. Hutchinson.. U. D. Satanta
LODGE
OP KANSAS.
77
Grand Lodge Dues. .$ 85 00 103 00 82 00 68 00 126 00 88 00 36 00 59 00 51 00 55 00 58 00 86 00 629 00 56 00 61 00 67 00 63 00 62 00 67 00 33 00. 44 00 58 00 80 00 46 00 35 00 27 00 44 00 45 00 37 00 195 00 54 00 33 00 69 00 50 00 . 56 00 29 00
Fees on Raisings. $ 15 00 50 00 11 00 • 15 00 60 00 30 00 15 00 35 00 15 00 20 00 30 00 20 00 65 00 10 00 15 00 •25 00 5 00 20 00 25 00 • 20 00 5 00 30 00
$76,688 00
$20,121 00
20 25 15 15 .25 30 200 80 50 30 30 130 65 65 15 20 45 45 60 35
00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00
$
Total. 100 00 153 00 93 00 83 00 186 00 118 00 51 00 94 00 66 00 75 00 88 00 106 00 694 00 66 00 76 00 92 00 68 00 82 00 92 00 53 00 49 00 88 00 30 00 66 00 60 00 42 00 59 00 70 00 67 00 395 00 134 00 83 00 99 00 80 00 186 00 94 00 65 00 15 00 20 00 45 00 45 00 60 00 35 00
$96,809 00
78
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SCHEDULE " B . "
Being amount returned by subordinate lodges for the year ending December 31, 1923: No. 57 118 221 295 387
Name. Coyville Altoona Lebanon Comanche Em;nett Total
Grand Lodge Assessment Dues. December SI. $ 58 00 $ 58 00 107 00 109 00 120 00 120 00 118 00 117 00 70 00 70 00 $473 00
$474 00
Fees on Raisings. $ 20 00 25 00 10 00 20 00 15 00 $ 90 00
Total. $ 136 00 241 00 250 00 255 00 155 00 $ 1,037 00
SCHEDULE " C . "
Amount dispensation fees received from the following lodges: U. U. U. U. U. U. U. U. U.
D. D. D. D. D. D. D. D. D.
Name. Bendena Johnson Allen : Rexford Kanorado -. Stanley Hutchinson Satanta
Location. Bendena Johnson Allen Rexford Kanorado Stanley Hutchinson Santanta.'.
Amount. $ 20 00 20 00 . 20 no . 20 00 . 20 nn . 20 00 . 20 00 20 00
Total
$160 00
SCHEDULE " D . "
Amount received account of charter fees for the year ending December 31, 1924: No. 437 438 439
Name. Enterprise West Gate.. Beaumont Total
:
Amount. $ 20 00 20 00 20 00 $ 60 00
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE SCHEDULE
OF KANSAS.
79
"E."
Amount received account of contribution to the Endowment Fund of the Kansas Masonic Home: Jefferson Lodge No. 84 Total
SCHEDULE
$
8 00
$
8 00
"F."
Amount received account bond investment for the year ending December 31, 1924: Interest, Spring Township, Harper County Interest, Fourth Liberty Loan Bonds , Bond No. 12, School District No. 79, Greenwood County Interest, School District No. 79, Greenwood County Interest, School District No. 12, Ottawa County Interest, Board of Education, City of Larned Interest, School District No. 50, Brown County Interest, Spring Township, Harper County Interest, Fourth Liberty Loan Bonds Interest, Board of Education, City of Larned Interest, School District No. 50, Brown County Interest, School District No. 79, Greenwood County Total
$
50 658 500 50 50 100 105 50 977 100 105 37
00 72 00 00 00 00 00 00 58 00 00 50
!...$2,783 75
80
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
TopBKA, KANSAS, January 21, 1925. ALBERT K . WILSON, Grand Secretary, In account with T H E M . - . W . \ G R A N D LODGE OF KANSAS. CASH ACCOUNT.
Dr. Received from lodges, as per Schedule " A " . . ; $ 96,809 O" Received from lodges, as per Schedule " B " 1,037 00 Received as per Schedule " C " 160 00 Received as per Schedule " D " 60 00 Received as per Schedule " E " 8 00 Received as per Schedule " F " 2,783 75 Rec lived account fees and dues from members of defunct •i •' lodges 2 00 Received account overpayment of mileage, Leavenworth Lodge No. 2, $3.28, and Palmyra Lodge No. 23, (1923) $9.08 12 36 Received account Books of Annual Returns , 30 00 Received account work on Books of Annual Returns 7 00 Received account special dispensation fees (Bird, 1923) 15 00 Received account return of postage. Book of Annual Returns, Lyra Lodge No. 256 1 20 Received account balance cash on hand, Allen Lodge U. D. (1923) 220 52 Received account sale of waste paper 3 67 Received account daily balance interest 456 14 Received account special dispensation fees (Strain, 1924).. 445 00 Received account unexpended portion Grand Master's Contingent Fund (Strain, 1924) 92 23 Received account payment for lost Ciphers, Lodges Nos. 65, 338, 363, 414, 421 100 00
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
81
Received account certification to Life Membership Certificates $ Received acccTunt payment for sets of sample standard blanks, Lodges Nos. 25 and 439 Received account payment for List of Regular Lodges, Lodge No. 439 : Received from Grand Chapter, R. A. M., account maintenance Office and Library Building : Received from Grand Council, R. & S. M., account maintenance Office and Library Building.... Received from Grand Commandery, K. T:, account maintenance Office and Library Building Total
75 00 2 00 1 00 500 00 350 00 575 00
$103,745 87
ToPEKA, KANSAS, January 21, 1925. THE
M.-.W.-.GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS,
In account with ALBERT K . WILSON, Grand Secretary. 1925. Jan. 2 1 . ^ P a i d W. F. March, Grand Treasurer, since last • report , $ 103,745 87 Fraternally submitted, ALBERT K . WILSON,
Grand Secretary.
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Excess of expenditures over income.
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Unexpended balance of year's income.
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.
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Total
$1,577,362 40
$1,577,363 40
,
© T h i s includes $10,000.00 paid Masonic Home for loan made in 1905. * © T h i s amount includes an appropriation from the General Fund to the Masonic Home of £5,000.00. © T h e s e amounts were first transferred to the Charity Fund, and subsequently to the Masonic Home Fund, together with $2,429.89 from the Charity Fund, making entire amount - up to that date $34,666-41 transferred to the Home. © I n addition to this amount $2,353.91 was transferred to the Charity Fund from the General Fund during 1903, by order of the Council of Administration. © T h i s amount includes $2,353.91 retransferred from Charity Fund to General Fund, by order of Grand Lodge. (See page 158, Proceedings 1904.) © T h i s amount includes $5,000.00 transferred from Charity Fund to General Fund. (See Proceedings 1905, page 348..i © T h i s amount includes $10,000.00 borrowed from the Masonic Home, and $5,000.00 donated by the Masons of Topeka. © T h i s amount includes the receipt of and the payment to the Grand Treasurer of $3,000.00 borrowed during settlement of accounts of the late Albert Sarbach, and $16,358.99 paid by The Fidelity and Deposit Company, of Baltimore, Maryland. © T h e s e amounts include $24,700.00 invested in bonds. " @ t h i s amount includes $10,000.00 donated to the Masonic Home. (ii)This includes $57,650.00 borrowed and special assessment account new Masonic Grand Lodge Building. @These amounts include $173,248.21 contributed to Masonic Home Rebuilding Fund. (I3)these amounts include $36,035.00 raising fees 1921; $20,998.00, 1922; $22,065.00, 1923; $20,475.00, 1924. ". (i4)This amount includes $147,088.00 Special Assessment for additions to Masonic Home. Total net receipts for thirty years $1,513,158 96 Total expenditures and investments $1,577,362 40 Total excess over income 64,203 44
^
00 05
Co
i-
>
£^ ;b. ^ ' O tr^ g Q t5 O ^
^ (^
1924. Fob. 5 Feb. 5 Fob. 5 Fob. 5 Fob. 5 Fob. 5 Fob. 5 Feb. 5 Feb. 5 Feb. 5 Feb. 5 Feb. 5 Feb. 5 Feb. 5 Feb. 5 Feb. 5 Fob. 5 Feb. 5 Fob. 5 Feb. 5 Feb. 5 Feb. 5 Feb. 5 Feb. 5 Feb. 5 Feb. 5 Fob. 5 Feb. 5 Fob. 5 Feb. 5 F e b . 16 F e b . 26
a
to
•a u s
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 20 27 28 29 30 31 32
•s
1
C e n t r a l - T o p e k a P a p e r Co William F r a n k M a r c h
Southwestern Bell Tel. Co Western Union Tele. Co Albert K. Wilson Sullivan A r t Store
Tliompson Bros., Spl. Appr. Gr. Lodge.... $
N . B . KeUer Albert K. Wilson Acme W h i t e L e a d & Color W o r k s Tliompson Brotliers
T o p e k a Edison C o m p a n y T o p e k a Edison C o m p a n y City Water Works
William J. Bond, M i n o r Salaries E . H . Lindley, M i n o r Salaries J. R o y Givens, M i n o r Salaries
K o y H . Olosson, C o m m i t t o o Allowance G. F . Beezley, C o m m i t t e e Allowance.... F r o d E . Brooks, M i n o r Salaries
P . M . Hoislngton, Comralttoe Allowance
In Favor of
53 60
u to
s
e c
CO
3
69
$
.
25 10 25 40 25 25 25 30 20 25 35
to
'3 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00
•
^^•^
WARRANT ACCOUNT.
$
6 8 19 3 12 2 17 3 20 5
00 35 89 35 25 50 50 38 00 94
$
25 60 27 50
sc
oe .
•a
J S
37 8 94 8 1 1 2 3
70 10 20 70 .60 25 00 50
C3i
"5c
to o
t)
ta
O O
•13
1^
00
26 26
26
26 26 26
Feb. Feb.
Feb.
Feb. Fob. Feb.
in
10
10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10
Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar.
Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar
Mar. 15
in
10 10 1(1
3
Mar.
Feb. 29 Feb. 29 Mar. 3
Feb. 29
Fob. 26 Feb. 29
26 26 26 26 26 26 26 26
Feb. Feb. H'eb. H'eb. h'eb. Feb. Feb. Fob.
33 Zercher Book & Sta. Co 34 .fohn F . Strlckrott ;... 3.5 American Railway E x p . Co... 36 Topoka P u r e W a t e r Co City W a t e r W o r k s 37 38 H a y e s P r o d u c e C o m p a n y 39 Albert K. Wilson 40 Capital I r o n W o r k s Co., Spl. Appr, Co. of Administration 41 E l m e r F . Strain 42 Elmer F . Strain, P r i v a t e Secretary to Grand Master 43 T h e Lilley C o m p a n y , G r a n d M a s t e r ' s Apron 44 F . B . Wilkinson 4.5 A. B . Burge 46 K. R. B b e y , Historical Registry & Abstract 47 Green Scales .R o b e r t P . McColloch, Spl. Appr.. Co. of 4S Administration -49 R o b e r t P . McColloch, Spl. Appr. Co. of Administration .50 T h o m a s G. Fitch, Sp. Appr. Gr. Lodge . .51 I . Roland Ferguson 52 K e n n e t h N . Pomeroy, E x p . G r a n d Lodge Communication 53 Albert K. Wilson, Spl. Appr. Co. of Administration 54 T o p e k a Edison C o m p a n y 55 T o p e k a Edison C o m p a n y '. 56 M a c h i n i s t s Electric C o 57 T o p e k a Ice C o m p a n y 58 Albert K. Wilson 59 T h o m s p o n Brothers, Printing A n n u a l Proceedings 60 Zercher Book & Sta. Co , 61 J. C. Darling C o m p a n y 62 Southwestern Bell Tel. Co 63 T o p e k a Transfer & Storage Co 64 Western Union Tel. Co 65 Sullivan A r t Store 66 N o r t h w e s t e r n P a p e r Goods Co 67 T h o m a s G. Fitch, T a x on Work E n dowment Fund 68 W. F. March, Mileage and Expenses 70 00 759 54
385 00
28 00
375 00
35 00 416 00
150 00
25 nn
61 50
108 35
150 00 125 00
600 00
fr'Mfr"ri"fr'
$ 1 , 0 0 0 GO
15 00 70 25 80 3 50
1 2 12 1
8 20
20 00
80 2 50
30 00
$
1 60
14 88 4 1
33 SO 00 60
75 00
80 9 05 2 10 2 75
00
to
IS!
"11
o.
ft
(3 .O
o
b
C5
Apr.
4
Apr. 3 Apr. < Apr. '. Apr. < Apr. '. Apr. ' Apr. ' Apr. ' Apr. ' Apr. ' Apr. '.
82 83 Albert K. Wilson . 84 85 Southwestern Bell Tel. Co . 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 . .. .
K. B . E b e y , Historical Registry &
. .
Kansas Bankers Surety Co., G r a n d
Mar. 15 71 M a r . 15 72 73 74 M a r . 15 75
'F. B . Wilkinson
W . F . M a r c h , M i l e a g e t o Ropresen-
76 77 78 79 80 M a r . 26 81
A. K. Wilson, Grand Secy., Mileage and
Mar. 15 70
In Favor of
1924. Mar. 15 69
a
s
3
i
$
•
25 00
70 00
3,193 89
29 13
§
to
o
S
=0
$
150 00 125 00
'3 to
to
WARRANT ACCOUNT—Continued.
1 26 2 1 1
25 90 00 95 28
20 00 1 00
$ 31 25 8 25 30 72
•a
•3
$
•'•3'50
, 69 00
to
a,
|&
•a
500 00
$ 10 02
1
1.
$
1 18 52 9 25 12
60 90 20 45 00 45
75 00
to«5
01
$
•
75"54
1 O
Co
ta
8
o
00 05
4 97 19 98 19 99 19 100 19 101 19 102 Albert K. Wilson 19 103 Macmillan Company, Library, PurniApr. 19 104 Apr. 19 105 Apr. 25 106 Thompson Brothers, Printing Annual Apr. 25 107 Apr. 25 108 Apr. 25 109 Apr. 25 110 F. B. "Wilkinson Apr. 25 111 A. B. Burge Apr. 25 112 Apr. 25 113 Apr. 25 114 Apr. 25 115 Apr. 28 116 May 1 117 B. W. Kraff May 5 118 T. G. Fitch, Spl. Appr. Gr. Lodge May 5 119 T. G. Fitch, Tax on Work, Endow't Fund 120 Elmer F. Strain May 121 May 122 May 123 Albert K. Wilson May 124 Albert K. Wilson May 125 May 126 May 127 Topeka Edison Company May 128 May 129 May 130 May 131 May 132 May 133 May 134 May 135 May 136 Sullivan Art Store May 137 May 14| Pantagra,ph Printing & Stationery Co., May 14 138 K. R. Burbank, Printing Annual Pro-
Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr.
74 60
153 00
58 00 20 00
25 00
1,942 CO
18 75
200 00 25 00 450 00 300 CO
150 00 125 00
6 1 1 2 1 14 32
00 05 02 50 50 39 85 00
20 00
10 00 10 23 27 50
4 00 1 60
6 25
3 26
5 10 25 1
70 13 20 60
150 50
80 00 11 05
40 21 85
130 35
76 15 148 15
74 90
00 -5
Co
>^
b is o 's
o
§
55
i
Southwestern Bell Tel. Co T o p e k a Transfer & Storage Co., Binding
Hugh McParland, Charity Fund Albert K. Wilson, Binding Proceedings..
June 6 167 June 20 168
June June
J o h n P . Strickrott
9 45
T h o m p s o n Bros., Binding Proceedings.. Becktold Printing & Book Mfg. Co.,
1 50 • 400 00 40 00
23 09
25 00
tj to
e _g
tu
3
to
K. R. E b e y , Hist. Registry & Abstract.. $
P . B . Wilkinson
J o h n F . Strickrott
Albert K. Wilson
In Favor of
6 159 160 161 162 163 164 6 165 6 166
June
1924. M a y 14 139 M a y 14 140 141 M a y 14 142 143 M a y 14 144 145 M a y 21 146 M a y 21 147 148 M a y 21 149 150 M a y 2] M a y 27 151 M a y 27 152 M a y 27 153 M a y 27 154 M a y 27 155 156 M a y 27 157 M a y 27 158 June 6
Q
a
3 to
•a
$
150 00 125 00
CO
'3
to
•
6
».. •Si
WARRANT ACCOUNT—Continued.
$
79 15 00 75
2 50 53 9 00
15 50
2 50 14 00
5 13 5 0
s
to
c e.
8
S 22 95
I&
C to tu w
$
o
3 1 14 16
20 60 19 20
80 00 2 35
40 15 26 4 10 53 30 75
,o
to o
24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 25 30
7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 1H IH 18 IH 18 24
28 28 28 28 HI 31 31 31 31 31 31 31 5
June June June June June June June June June June June
July July July July July July July July July July July July July July July July July July July July
July July July July July July July July July July July July Aug.
200 201 202 203 204 205 206 207 208 209 210 211 212
180 181 182 183 184 185 186 187 188 189 190 191 192 193 194 195 196 197 198 199
B . Wilkinson
Southwestern Bell Tel. C o
City W a t e r Works
F.
Albert K. Wilson, Library, F u r n i t u r e ,
Southwestern Bell Tel. Co
169 F . B . W i l k i n s o n 170 171 172 173 C i t y W a t e r W o r k s 174 175 176 Albert K. Wilson 177 J o h n P . Strickrott 178 179 J o h n M c C u l l a g h , G r a n d Troas., Spl.
25 00
53 00
89 95
15,493 74
25 00
1
150 00 125 00
150 00 125 00
11 95
98 00 21 05
3 50 15
60 2 50 2 85 10 50 25 2 50 9 81
2 85 1 75 2 50
$
236 05
8 50
2 30 10 00
80 00 40 2 20 1 80 14 40
80
52 30 60 00
;::::::::::;;: ;:::;.:;;:::;:::;:i::;::;::::.::.::::
1 16
6 23
18 3 1 3
15 68
80 00 4 20 80
to
o
(3
o
§
27 27 27 27 27
Sept. Sept. Sept. Sept. Sept.
238 239 240 241 242
19 234 19 235 19 236 27 237
Sept. Sept. Sept. Sept.
Aug.
A. K . W i l s o n . L i b r y „ F u r n . , B i n d g . , e t c . .
Stanford M . S m a r t
A. K. Jaclison K. C. Show Case Works Co., Li brary, F u r n i t u r e , Binding, etc. Albert K. Wilson
213 6 214 Albert K. Wilson 215 Aug. 11 216 Aug. 11 217 Aug. 11 218 Aug. 11 219 Albert K. "Wilson Aug. 19 220 Aug. 19 221 Aug. 19 222 Aug. 27 223 P . B . Wilkinson Aug. 27 224 Aug. 27 225 K. B . E b e y , Hist. Registry & Abstract.. $ Aug. 27 226 Sept. 9 227 Sept. 9 228 Sept. 9 229 Sept. 9 230 Sept. 9 231 Sept. 9 232 Sept. 19 233 Becktold Printing & Book Mfg. Co.,
1924.
O
In Favor o
48 00
225 00
800 00
25 00
1
3 o
to
$
00 00 00 00
.
150 00 125 00
200 25 450 300
"3
to
>- S
WARRANT ACCOUNT—Continued.
$
1 75 2 50
10 45
2 50 8 65
65 1 40
c
c
is
S
e
0
•0
4 25
.
$
62
P $
0
40
11 60 85 1 60
80 00
40
1 60 10 00 45
»s 5
$
81 90 64 85
Co
t<5 3
to O
to
i
o
o
to
243 244 24b 24H 247 24K 249
11 204 11 205 11 'MM 14 2(i7 14 2 OS 20 209 2(1 2V() 2(; 271 27 272
Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct.
; •
27 273 27 274 27 275 27 270 27 277 27 278 27 279 Nov ; -2K0 Nov ; -2H1 Nov 2H2 Nov . a 283
Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct.
Oct. 2R2 Oct. 11 203
n
Oct. 3 250 Oct. 3 251 Oct. 3 252 Oct. 3 253 Oct. 3 254 Oct. 3 255 Oct. 3 25(i Oct. 3 257 Oct. 3 25H Oct. 4 25H Oct. 4 '2t)0 Oct. 11 21)1
Sept. 30 Sept. 30 Sept. 30 Sept. 30 Oct. 3 Oct. 3 Oct. 3
A. B . Burge F . B . Wilkinson K. R. E b e y , H i s t . Registry & Abstract.. Green Scales Zercher Book & Stationery Co American M u l t i g r a p h Sales Co T o p e k a Transfer & Storage Co., Lib r a r y , F u r n i t u r e , Binding, etc... Harvey O. Davis; American Railway E x p . Co Miss E d i t h s Flower Shop Sullivan A r t Store Southwestern Bell Tel. Co Albert K. Wilson T o p e k a Edison C o m p a n y T o p e k a Ice Company Johnson & Beck Western Union Tel. Co H a r v e y O. Davis .Albert K. Wilson, Chr. Com. on Correspondence T o p e k a Daily Capital L i b r a r y Bureau, L i b r a r y , F u r n i t u r e , Binding, etc : T o p e k a P u r e W a t e r Co Jordan Electric C o m p a n y Stanford M . S m a r t Stanford M . S m a r t H a r v e y O. Davis •Zercher Book & Stationery Co : Remington Typewriter Co H a r v e y O. Davis Capper Engraving C o m p a n y , Grand Officers' P o r t r a i t s J o h n F . Strickrott Sullivan A r f Store Central-Topeka P a p e r Co P . B . Wilkinson A. B . Burge K. R. E b e y . Hist. Registry & Abstract, Green Scales. ; Elmer F , Strain William F r a n k M a r c h Albert K. Wilson Albert K, Wilson 25 00
40 28
16 87
6 20
25 00
200 25 450 300
00 00 00 00
1,50 00 125 00
300 00
125 00 150 00
45 50 36 96
2 50 3 50 8 06
5 40 7 60
7 80
1 52
5 3 15 18
1 26 2 36 3 82
8 0 00
40 1 90
13 98 1 60 2 66
80 00
56 50
80 32 67 65 71 20
71
76 55
Co
>.
t^
o b o ft o
§
to
3 289 3 290 3 291 3 292 3 293 3 294 3 29.'') 10 296 10 297 10 298 13 299 14 300 14 301 14 302 22 303
Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov.
F . B . Wilkinson
Albert K. Wilson Fidelity & Deposit Co., of M a r y l a n d , G i a n d S e c r e t a r y ' s Bond Prcin.... S u l l i \ a n Art Store, Library, F u r n i t u r e .
D . H. Forbes C i t y W a t e r Worlfs
Dec. 10 309 Dec. 10 310 Dec. 10 311
C o u n t y Treas., Shawnee C o u n t y , Taxes.. C o u n t y Treas., Shawnee C o u n t y , Taxes..
Nov. 26 308 Green Scales
N o v . 26 305 N o v . 26 306 N o v . 26 307
N o v . 24 304
Albert K. "Wilson, L i b r a r y , F u r n i t u r e ,
Ketclioson P r i n t i n g Co
T o p o k a Transfer & Storage Co.. Bind-
3 285 3 286 3 287 3 288
In Favor of
Nov. Nov Nov. Nov.
1
1924. N o v . 3 284
o Q
u 3
$
95 44 2,666 40
67 50
. 10 00
~
49 50
33 59
s o s e o
to
$
•
150 00 125 00
2 ' '5 •
to
WARRANT ACCOUNT—Continued.
$
50
20 5 12 22
00 60 27 32
8 85
s
U
S
is
S
28 21
s c
.gr
c e .
S
378
1 85
S
O
55 75 45 80
80 00
22 80 40 1 60
2 f5 3 18
6
68 70
$ »^S1"68 114 00
to 3
o
b
tq
o o
•13 S3
to
22331 22332 22333 22334
Dec. 22335 Dec. 27336 Dec. 27337 Dec. 27338 Dec. 27339 Dec. 27340 1925 Jan. 2 341 Jan. 342 Jan. 343 Jan. 344 Jan. 345 Jan. 346 Jan, 347 Jan. 348 Jan. 349 Jan. 350 Jan. 351 Jan. 352
Dec. Dec. Dec. Dec.
Dec. 10 312 Dec. 313 Dec. 314 Dec. 315 Dec. 316 Dec. 317 Dec. 318 Dec. 319 Dec. 320 Dec. 321 Dec. 322 Dec. 323 Dec. 324 Dec. 325 Dec. 326 Dec. 327 Dec. 328 Dec. 329 Dec. 330
City Water Works T o p e k a Edison C o m p a n y T o p e k a Transfer & Storage Co.. American Railway E x p . Co J o h n F . Strickrott Southwestern Bell Tel. Co Crane & Company Postal Telegraph-Cable Co J o h n s o n & Beck Machinists Electric Co Gem Grocery.& M e a t M a r k e t . . . . T o p e k a Edison C o m p a n y
Topelia Edison C o m p a n y T o p e k a Edison C o m p a n y Jolinson Service C o m p a n y Johnson & Beck T o p e k a Ico C o m p a n y John F . Strickrott Albert K. Wilson... R o b e r t P . McCoUoch Southwestern Bell Tel. Co R e m i n g t o n Typewriter Co Albert K. Wilson Crane & Company Sullivan A r t Store J o h n F . Strickrott Acme W h i t e Lead & Color W o r k s Green Scales '. Ellis & M a r t i n , L i b r a r y , F u r n i t u r e , Binding, etc Eben E. MacLeod J o h n F . Strickrott Albert K. Wilson Albert K. Wilson, L i b r a r y , F u r n i t u r e , Binding, etc J o r d a n Electric C o m p a n y R. H . Fairchlld, Library, F u r n i t u r e , Binding, etc.. M u n s o n Supply C o m p a n y Library Bureau T h o m a s G. F i t c h , C h a r i t y F u n d A. B . Burge
Machinists' Electric Co., Library, Furniture, Binding, etc City Water Works
"2,bb'i' 50
4 00
5 00
50 70
37 62
78
2 50 13 35
2 50 8 00
3 50 2 50
50 25 88 80 75 1 98
2 12' 5 11
9 25
8 00 121 25
9 58
4 85
3 87
50 37 00 02 55 60
6 2 2 99
25 85 05 60
3 60 12 88
1 50
1 40 90 00
3 13 27 33 5 1
CO
Co
o
o t) o
§
to
a
353 16 354 16 355 356 16 357 358 359 16 360 361 16 16 362 16 363 16 364 365 21 366 367 368 369 21 21 370 21 371
1
J a n . 21 375 J a n . 22 376
J a n . 21 372 J a n . 21 373 J a n . 21 374
Jan. Jan. Jan.
Jan.
Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan.
Jan
Jan Jan
1925.
o (3
VI to
A m o u n t Unexpended A m o u n t In excess of a p p r o p r i a t i o n
A m o u n t authorized by Council of Ad-
A m o u n t a p p r o p r i a t e d b y G r a n d Lodge
C i t y W a t e r Worlds
T . G . F i t c h , Secy., Masonic H o m e Fund.. T. G.Fltcli, Secy., M a s o n i c H o m e F u n d . . T . G. F i t c h , Secy., T a x on Worlc, M a sonic H o m e E n d o w m e n t F u n d . . . 20,475 00
8 00 75 00 39,020 50
18 00
$
200 25 450 300 300 125
to
CO
do 00 00 00 00 00
OS'S
$
6 70 10 50 1 63
e
e
$
S 1.540 66
15,823 09
75,808 66
8,385 00
$122 19
1,000 00 800 00
$
$90,091 09 S 8,385 00 $1,000 00 $922 19 $
A. K. Wilson, Hist. Registry & Abstract:. $ Burlce E n g r a v i n g C o m p a n y .' Kctcheson P r i n t i n g Co T. G. F i t c h , Secy.. Spl. Appr. Co. of
Albert K. Wilson
E l m e r F . Strain Wlliam Prank March Albert K. Wilson Albert K. Wilson F . H . Wilson
In Favor of
s o S o u
CO
WARRANT ACCOUNT—Concluded.
OB, .§6q ft, • $
o
7 75
18 70 81 00
80 00 40 1 60
2 66
Si
341 84 $ 40 84
1,000 00 600 00
$
494 22
1,700 00
$
409 80
1,750 00
658 16 $559 16 $2,194 22 $1,340 20
66
5 50 44 30
Si
.11
s
o
Co
b
o
to
1924-25,
GRAND
LODGE
SPECIAL
OF KANSAS.
95
COMMUNICATION.
LEBANON, KANSAS, April 30, 1924.
At the request of Oak Lodge No. 287, of Lebanon, Kansas, the M.". W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the Masonic Hall at Lebanon, Kansas, on April 30, 1924, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the Community Hall in the city of Lebanon, Kansas. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: M.'.W.'. ELMER F . STRAIN W.'.Bro. ARTHUR C . PFANDER Bro. EARL GUISE Bro. RAYMOND C . GUISE Bro. D. M. HENDRICKSON W.'.Bro. JAMES L . FELTON Bro. CHARLES H . REAM Bro. ALBERT W . KELLEY! Bro. SAMUEL G . BREAKBY
Grand Master. as Deputy Grand Master. :as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden. as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary. as Grand Senior Deacon. as Grand Junior Deacon. as Grand Marshal.
Bro. ROBERT M . AMIS Bro. JAMES W . AMIS
as Grand Senior Steward. ....as Grand Junior Steward.
Bro. FRANK W . BRADY
...as Grand Tyler.
The Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the First Degree of Masonry. The Grand Lodge then repaired to the public street and marched to the site of the new building, where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity. The Grand Lodge then returned to the Masonic Hall, where it was closed in Ample Form. ELMER
Attest:
F.
STRAIN,
Grand Master. JAMES L . FELTON,
as Grand Secretary.
96
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
ST.
FRANCIS, KANSAS, May
14,
1924.
At the request of St. Francis Lodge No. 404, of St. Francis, Kansas, the M.'. W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the Masonic Hall at St. Francis, Kansas, on May 14, 1924, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new County Court House in the city of St. Francis, Cheyenne County, Kansas. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: M.-. W.-. ELMER F. STRAIN
R.-. W.-. CLARENCE M . CROSBY Bro. ABRAHAM RIDDLE Bro. EDWARD E . K I T E Bro. ROBERT 0 . CRAM Bro. ALONZO B . NICKOLS
Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro.
JosiAH CROSBY J. EDWARD UPLINGER FLOYD FINLEY ENOCH D . NIXON
Bro. HOWARD BEAR Bro. HENRY W . DAUM
Grand Master.
as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden as Grand Junior Warden. as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary.
as Grand Senior as Grand Junior .....as Grand Senior as Grand Junior
Deacon. Deacon. Steward. Steward.
as Grand Tyler. as Grand Marshal.
The M.-. W.'. Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. The Grand Lodge then repaired to the street and marched to the site of the County Court House where the corner-stone of the building was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity, in the presence of a large number of brethren and friends. Brother ROBERT GOOD, of Cawker City, Kansas, acted as Grand Orator for the occasion and delivered an instructive oration after which the Grand Lodge again repaired in Grand Procession to the place of convening and was closed in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. ELMER F . STRAIN,
Attest;
Grand Master.
ALONZO B . NICKOLS,
as Grand Secretary.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
97
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
KANSAS CITY, KANSAS, May 26, 1924.
At the request of the brethren of Kansas City, Kansas, the M.'. W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication, May 26, A. D. 1924, A. L. 5924, in the city of Kansas City, Kansas, by M.'.W.-. ELMER F . STRAIN, Grand Master, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the City's new Soldier and Sailor Memorial Building. The several stations and places were filled by the following brethren: M.'.W.'. R.'.'W.'. Bro. Bro.
ELMER F . STRAIN ROBERT W . RADFORD HARRY YORK FRANK P. STRICKLAND
W.". Bro. WILLIAM L . JOHNSON W.-. ARTHUR H . STRICKLAND...,
W.-. Bro. Bro. Bro. Rev.
JACOB SCHOLL: GRANT W . HARRINGTON C. W. ANDERSON CHARLES HICKS C. A. RILEY
....Grand Master. as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. ...as Grand Junior Warden. as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary.
as Grand as Grand as Grand as Grand as Grand
Senior Deacon. Junior Deacon. Senior Steward. Junior Steward. Chaplain.
W.'. JAMES E . PORTER W.-. W. AMER BURNETT
as Grand Marshal. Grand Tyler.
Bro. W. W. GORDON
as Grand Orator.
The M.'.W.'. Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. The Grand Lodge then repaired to the site of the Memorial Building, where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity, in the presence of a large number of the brethren and the public. A box containing mementos and documents of various military, civic and fraternal organizations was placed in the stone. Addresses were rriade by Hon. W. W. GORDON, Mayor, Brother REUEL W . ELTON, Adjutant-General, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and JOHN R . QUINN, National Commander, American Legion. The Grand Lodge then returned to the Scottish Rite Temple, and was closed in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. ELMER F . STRAIN,
Attest:'
Grand Master.
ARTHUR H . STRICKLAND,
as Grand Secretary.
98
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
BALDWIN, KANSAS, June 2,
1924.
Upon the request of Palmyra Lodge No. 23 of Baldwin, Kansas, the M.\ W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of the Grand Jurisdiction of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the Hall of Palmyra Lodge No. 23 at Baldwin, Kansas, on June 2, 1924, for t h e purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new Mulvane Science Hall of Baker University. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: M.-.W.-. ELMER F . STRAIN W.-.Bro. MORRIS T . GARDNER Bro. ARTHUR 0. REMINGTON Bro. GEORGE A. SHIKE Bro. ARTHUR M . GARDNER
W.-.Bro. HEWIT TAYLOR Rev. and Bro. CLARENCE E . HOLCOMB
Bro. HUGH P. HARTLEY Bro. SCOTT HANSEN
Grand Master. as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden. as Grand Treasurer.
as Grand Secretary. as Grand Chaplain.
'....as Grand Senior Deacon. as Grand Junior Deacon.
Bro. TIMOTHY J. KEONANB
as Grand Marshal.
Bro. JOHN G . JOHNSON Bro. ARCHIE A. LEMASTER
as Grand Senior Steward. as Grand Junior Steward.
Bro. WILLIAM H U F F
as Grand Tyler.
The Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. The Grand Lodge then repaired to the public street and marched to the site of the new Mulvane Science Hall where the corner-stone was laid according t o the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity. Brother, the Rev. Dr. WILBUR MASON acted as Orator for Baker University, and Brother the Rev. Dr. WALLACE B . FLEMING as Grand Orator for the Fraternity. They both gave splendid orations before a large and appreciative audience of brethren and citizens. Quite a large list of historical papers, coins, etc., were put in a sealed copper box and placed in the corner-stone by the acting Grand Treasurer. The Grand Lodge then returned to the Hall of Palmyra Lodge No. No. 23 where it was closed in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. ELMER F . STRAIN,
Attest:
Grand Master. H B W I T TAYLOR,
OS Grand Secretary.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
99
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
MCPHEESON, KANSAS, June 5,
1924.
At the request of McPherson Lodge No. 172 of McPherson.'^Kansas, the M.'.W/. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons,of Kansas was convened in a Special Communication in the Masonic Hall at McPherson, Kansas, on the 5th day of June, 1924, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the First Congregational Church in the city of McPherson, Kansas. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: M.-.W.-. ELMEE F . STRAIN W.'. EDISON P. KUBIN W.-. CLARENCE A. HODGES R.-. W.-. CHARLES N . FOWLER Bro. CARL A. GRANT Bro. SOREN SOEENSEN... Bro. CLAUDE E . SAYRB
Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro.
WILLIAM T . VESPER GEORGE N . LONBERGER THOMAS N . CANFIELD OSCAR E K
Grand Master. ...as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden. 1
'.
Bro. ANDREW W . BREMYEE Bro. GRANVIL E . HAGSTEOM
as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary. as Grand Chaplain.
as Grand as Grand .as Grand as Grand
Senior Junior Senior Junior
Deacon. Deacon. Steward. Steward.
as Grand Marshal. as Grand Tyler.
The Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. The Grand Lodge then repaired to the site of the new building, where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity. The Grand Lodge then returned to the Masonic Hall, where i t was closed in Ample Form. ELMEE F . STRAIN,
Attest:
Grand Master. SoEEN SOEENSEN,
as Grand Secretary.
100
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
MELVERN, KANSAS, June 12,1924.
Upon request of Melvern Lodge No. 22, of Melvern, Kansas, the M.'.W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication on the 12th day of June, 1924, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new rural High and Grade School Building, in the city of Melvern, Kansas. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: M.-.W.-. W.-. Bro. Bro.
ELMER F . STRAIN WARREN E . CATLIN PAUL NBAL OSCAR J. PROSE
Grand Master. as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden.
W.-. WILLIAM O . STEPHENS Bro. DELBERT G . HOBSON
as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary.
Bro. W.-. W.'. Bro. Bro. Bro.
as Grand Chaplain. as Grand Senior Deacon. as Grand Junior Deacon. as Grand Marshal. as Grand Senior Steward. as Grand Junior Steward.
ZiMRi B. ERMEY JOHN T . VAUGHN JONATHAN ASHBY I. ESTBL GANTS F R E D L . JUDD DANIEL FARMER
...:
Bro. CLAUD H . HUTCHISON
as Grand Tyler.
The M.'. W.*. Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. The Grand Lodge then repaired to the street and marched to the site of the new building, where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity. A large concourse of citizens witnessed the ceremony. After several appropriate addresses were made the Grand Lodge returned to the Hall and was closed in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. ELMER F . STRAIN,
Attest:
Grand Master. D E L B E R T G. HOBSON,
as Grand Secretary.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
101
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
KANSAS CITY, KANSAS, June 14, 1924.
The M.\ W.". Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the Masonic Hall of Roger E. Sherman Lodge No. 369, A. F. & A. M., Kansas City, Kansas, on the 14th day of June, A. D. 1924, A. L. 5924, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new Masonic Temple for Roger E. Sherman Lodge No. 369, A. F . & A. M. The several stations and places were filled by the following brethren: M.\ W.-. ELMER F . STRAIN
Grand Master.
R.-. W.-. ROBERT W . RADFORD Bro. CALVIN E . CLINB W.'. CLARENCE C . HEDRICK W.-. ALBERT C . COOKE Bro. FRED H . MERTEL Rev. and Bro. JAMES M. POWELL
W.-. W.'. W.-. W.-.
WILLIAM F . LOESE GEORGE A. REESE..... CHARLES A. KNBCHT EDWARD E . STOCKDALE
as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden.
.'.
'.
as Grand Treasurer. ...as Grand Secretary. as Grand Chaplain.
as Grand Senior as Grand Junior as Grand Senior as Grand Junior
Deacon. Deacon. Steward. Steward.
Bro. CHARLES C . MCMURRAY
as Grand Marshal.
W.'. EUGENE B . DOTY
as Bearer of Great Lights.
W.-. ROBERT A. DROWN
as Grand Tyler.
The M.'. W.\ Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. The Grand Lodge then repaired to the public street and marched to the site of the new Temple, where the cornerstone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity. Brother ALTON H . SKINNER was the orator for the occasion and delivered a most appropriate address along educational lines. The Grand Lodge then returned to the Masonic Hall, and was closed in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. ELMER F . STRAIN,
Attest:
Grand Master. F R E D H . MERTEL,
as Grand Secretary.
102
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
McCuNE, KANSAS, June 30, 1924. Upon request of Temple Lodge No. 237, A. F . & A. M., of McCune, Kansas, the M.'.W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the Masonic Hall in the city of McCune, Kansas, on the 30th day of June, A. D. 1924, at 6:00 P. M., for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the McCune Pubhc School Building in that city. The Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry, with the following officers: M.".W.'. W.-. Bro. Bro.
ELMER F . STRAIN CLARENCE R* WOLFE MURAT H . POWELL LOUIS G . STAINKE.....
W.". EDWARD MUNDAY W.-. THOMAS R . LANDES
W.-. HENRY M . HIGHLAND Bro. CLYDE L . MERRITT Rev. and Bro. IRA W . TOBRENCE
Grand Master. as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden. as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary.
as Grand Senior Deacon. as Grand Junior Deacon. as Grand Chaplain.
(Gila Creek Lodge No. 333, PottsviUe, Arkansas.) R.-. W.-. GEORGE F . BEEZLEY as Grand Orator. (Girard Lodge No. 93, Girard, Kansas.)
W.-. GUY H . DYER W.". DBLBBRT E . WHITE
as Grand Senior Steward. as Grand Junior Steward.
W.-. WILLIAM T . HIGHLAND S r o . SAMUEL A. M C C U N E
as Grand Marshal. as Grand Tyler.
'The Grand Lodge then marched to the site of the new McCune Public School Building where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity. R.'.W.'. GEORGE F . BEEZLEY, of Girard Lodge No. 93, and Judge of Division No. 2 of the District Court of Crawford County, Kansas, then delivered a very able and inspiring, address dealing upon educational and patriotic lines. The M.\W.'.Grand Lodge then returned to the Masonic Hall and was closed in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. ELMER F . STRAIN,
Attest:
Grand Master. THOMAS R , LANDES,
as Grand Secretary.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
103
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
.HEPLER, KANSAS, August 18, 1924.
At the request of Hepler Lodge No. 398, of Hepler, Kansas, the M.'. W.". Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the Masonic Hall at Hepler, Kansas, on August 18, 1924, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new Rural High School. The following stations and places were filled by the' following brethren: R.". W.'. FRED ROY ALFORD
as Grand Master.
W.\ JOHN A. ATTKISSON Bro. THOMAS B . LINCOLN Bro. WILLIAM A. STARLIPER
as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior. Warden. as Grand Junior Warden.
Bro. JAMES A. OWINGS W.-. DYER STRAWN Bro. JAMES COCHRAN
as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary. as Grand Chaplain.
Bro. J O E BAER Bro. ALBERT R . WILSON
as Grand Senior Deacon. as Grand Junior Deacon.
Bro. HENRY COGHILL
as Grand Marshal.
Bro. WILLIAM B . GOODEN Bro. WILLIAM E . HUTCHERSON
as Grand Senior Steward. as Grand Junior Steward.
W.-. WILLIAM T . COCHRAN
as Grand Tyler.
The Grand Lodge was opened in Due Form on the first degree of Masonry. The Grand Lodge then repaired to the public street and marched to the site of the new building, where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity. An address was then delivered by Brother JOHN H . CRIDER, of Rising Sun Lodge No. 8, Fort Scott, Kansas. The Grand Lodge then returned to the Masonic Hall, where it was closed in Due Form. F R E D ROY ALFORD,
Attest:
as Grand Master. DYER STRAWN,
OS Grand Secretary.
104
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
WELLINGTON, KANSAS, September 8, 1924.
At the request of Wellington Lodge No. 150, of Wellington, Kansas, the M.'.W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the Masonic Hall at Wellington, Kansas, on September 8, A. D. 1924, A. L. 5924, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new Christian Church, in the city of Wellington, Kansas. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: R.-. W.-. PERRY E . MILLER
as Grand Master.
W.'. CLARENCE J. WELLS Bro. JAMES H . STONE Bro. ARTHUR J. GERDNER
as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden
Bro. J. HARRIS CARR W.-. OTTO F . HENVILLE Bro. CLAUDE J. MILLER
as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary. as Grand Chaplain.
W.-. DAVID H . KURTZ W.'. ATHELBERT A . FlSK
as Grand Senior Deacon. as Grand Junior Deacon.
Bro. GEORGE C . HARTZELL
as Grand Marshal.
W.-. GUY E . RUTH Bro. CHARLES E . BRATCHES
as Grand Senior Steward. as Grand Junior Steward.
Bro. JASSE T . MORROW
as Grand Tyler.
The M.-. W.\ Grand Lodge was opened in Due Form on the first degree of Masonry. The Grand Lodge then repaired to the public street, formed in Grand Procession and marched to the site of the new Christian Church, where t h e corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity, followed by a splendid address given by our Brother Rev. WALTER SCOTT PRIEST, Pastor of the Central Christian Church, of
Wichita, Kansas. The Grand Procession was again formed and marched to the Masonic Hall where the M.'. W.'. Grand Lodge was closed in Due Form on the first degree of Masonry. The ceremonies were carried out with dignity and dispatch, leaving a most splendid impression upon the large gathering of Masons and friends who were privileged to be present on this occasion. PERRY E . MILLER,
Attest:
as Grand Master. OTTO F . HENVILLE,
OS Grand Secretary.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
105
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
MCDONALD, KANSAS, September 24, 1924.
Upon request of McDonald Lodge No. 383, of McDonald, Kansas, the M.'.W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication on the 24th day of September, A. D. 1924, A. L. 5924, in the city of McDonald, Kansas, for the purpose of dedicating the new Masonic Temple in that city. The several stations and places were filled by the following brethren: M.-.W.-. ELMER F . STRAIN R.-. W.'. CLARENCE M . CROSBY Bro. HARRY D . HARRISON Bro. SIDNEY C . BROWN
Grand Master. as Deputy Grand Master. afe Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden.
W.\ JOHN AVERY BURKBTT W.-. OSCAR A. BROWN Bro. JAMES H . STRAYER
as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary. as Grand Chaplain.
W.'. W.-. W.-. W.'.
as Grand as Grand as Grand as Grand
HARRY J. HALLENBECK ASA R . PAYNE HoLLis L. CASWELL EDWARD L . LOBBS
Senior Junior Senior Junior
Deacon. Deacon. Steward. Steward.
W.-. CHARLES H . BROWN
as Grand Marshal.
W.'. JosiAH CROSBY W.-. OTIS ARCHER
as Grand Sword Bearer. as Bearer of Great Lights.
W.-. JOHN METTLER
)
W.'. ELMER MULLEN
> as Grand Taper Bearers.
W.'. JOHN H . HOWARD W.-. JOHN AVERY BURKBTT
) )
W.'. HENRY D . HUGHES W.-. FRANK W . BROWN
W.-. CHARLES A. BENKELMAN W.-. CHARLES H . BROWN..
> as Bearers of the "Lodge." ;
)
as Grand Pursuivant. as Grand Tyler.
The M.-. W.-. Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry, in a building apart from the new Temple. The Grand Lodge repaired in Grand Procession to the lodge room of the Masonic Temple where the Ancient and impressive Ceremonies were performed in the presence of a number of visiting brethren. M.-.W.-. Brother STRAIN then delivered a brief oration, which was enjoyed by all the brethren.
106
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
W:. Brother STANFORD M . SMART also addressed the brethren briefly, after which the Grand Lodge again repaired in Grand Procession to the place of convening and was closed in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. E L M E R T F . STRAIN,
Attest:
Grand Master. OSCAR A. BROWN,
as Grand Secretary.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS..
107
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
W H I T E CHURCH, KANSAS, November 15,1924.
By request of Delaware Lodge No. 96, A. F. & A. M., of White Church, Kansas, the M.'.W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in the Masonic Hall at White Church, on November 15, 1924, at 2:00 P. M., for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new District School Building at White Church. •The M.'.W.'. Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the •first degree of Masonry, with the following officers: M.'.W.'. ELMER F . STRAIN R.'. W.\ ROBERT W . RADFORD . Bro. FRANK W . WAHLIN Bro. CHARLES H . HANCE W.-. JOHN S . STEPHENS W.-. CHESTER A. BARNARD W.-. GEORGE A. R E E S E
W.\ Bro. Bro. Bro.
Grand Master. as Deputy Grand Master. .....as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden. as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary. as Grand Chaplain.
CLEVELAND GRESS as LESLIE J. WALKER as WALTER J. BR0THERS0N..,.as FRANK ARMSTRONG as
Grand Grand Grand Grand
Senior Junior Senior Junior
Deacon. Dacon. Steward. Steward.
W.-. JOSEPH J. STOTLER W.". JOHN A. WOLFE
as Grand Orator. as Grand Marshal.
W.\ WILLIAM HURRELBRINK Bro. JAMES 0 . MOONEY
as Bearer of Great Lights. as Bearer of Book of Constitution.
W.-. GEORGE ZELLER
as Grand Tyler.
The Grand Lodge then repaired to the site of the new School Building, where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity, after which the Grand Lodge returned t o the Hall of Delaware Lodge No. 96, and was closed in Ample Form. ELMER F . STRAIN,
Attest:
Grand Master. CHESTER A. BARNARD,
as Grand Secretary.
108
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
PARSONS, KANSAS, November 27, 1924.
Upon request of Parsons Lodge No. 117, of Parsons, Kansas, the M.'. W.". Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication on the 27th day of November, A. D. 1924, A. L. 5924, in the city of Parsons, Kansas, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new High School Building in that city. The several stations and places were filled by the following brethren: M.-. W.-. ELMER F . STRAIN
Grand Master.
W.-. MYLES F . PEMBER Bro. SYLVESTER L . BLAIR Bro. HARRY R . WIDMER
as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden^ as Grand Junior Warden.
W.-. LUTHER CORTELYOU, J R Bro. ROBERT P. HUME
as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary.
Bro. S. A. MUNNEKE •Bro. H . E . BANE Bro. JOSEPH ALLEN Bro. G. A. BERGLUND Bro. J. F. WOMELDROFF Bro. C. E. MAIN Bro. W. R. OTIS
as Grand as Grand as Grand as Grand as Grand as Grand as Grand
Chaplain. Senior Deacon. Junior Deacon. Marshal. Senior Steward. Junior Steward. Tyler.
The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. The usual procession was then formed, after which they repaired to the site of the building, where the Ancient Ceremony of laying the corner-stone was performed under the immediate direction of the Grand Marshal. The Grand Lodge then returned to the Masonic Hall where it was closed in Ample Form. ELMER F . STRAIN,
A,ttest:
Grand Master. ROBERT F . H U M E ,
as Grand Secretary.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
109
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
WICHITA, KANSAS, December 3, 1924.
Upon request of Wichita Lodge No. 99, and Sunflower Lodge N o . 86, of Wichita, Kansas, the M.-.W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the Hall of Wichita Lodge No. 99, at Wichita, Kansas, on December 3, 1924, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of t h e new Masonic Temple, now under course of construction in the city of Wichita, Kansas. The several stations and places were filled by the following brethren: M.'.W.\ ELMBE F . STRAIN R.-. W.'. RAY L . RUTHRAUFF W.-. JAMES F . MCCOY W.-. GUY KILE Bro. WILLIAM H . MCCOIN Bro. JOSEPH L . KIRK... • Bro. HARRISON RAY ANDERSON
Bro. Bro. Bro. W.-.
FRED W . SMITH BBRTWIN FURNAS... FRED J. COSSITT WILLIAM INGRAM
W.". BENJAMIN F . DUNKIN W.-. WILLIAM H . HARRISON
Grand Master. as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden. as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary. as Grand Chaplain.
as Grand as Grand as Grand as Grand
Senior Junior Senior Junior
Deacon. Deacon. Steward. Steward.
as Grand Marshal. as Grand Tyler.
The Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. The Grand Lodge then repaired to the street and marched to the site of the new Temple, where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity in the presence of a large number of the Craft, members of the Order of Eastern Star, city and county officials, and many citizens of Wichita. An address appropriate to the occasion was delivered by M.'.W.'. THOMAS G . FITCH.
The Grand Lodge then returned to the Masonic Hall where it was closed in Ample Form. ELMER F . STRAIN,
Attest:
Grand Master.
JOSEPH L . K I R K ,
as Grand Secretary.
110
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
ELLSWORTH, KANSAS, February 20,
1925.
The M.'. W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas, was convened in Special Communication for the purpose of conducting the funeral services of the late M.-. W.\ EDWARD W . WELLINGTON, Past Grand Master, who died at his home in Ellsworth, Kansas, on February 18,1925. The Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the third degree of Masonry with the following Grand Officers: M.-. W.". ELMER F . STRAIN
R.-. W.'. JOHN W . NEILSON R.-. W.". CHARLES N . FOWLER
Grand Master.
Grand Senior Warden. ;... Grand Junior Warden.
R.-. W.'. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH
M.-.W.-. M.-. W.'. W.". M.-. W.-. Bro.
THOMAS G . FITCH MARION K . BRUNDAGE HENRY WALLENSTEIN. THOMAS L . BOND CHARLES A. CONKLING
Bro. GEORGE W . FAIRCHILD W.'. CHARLES D . MCILREB
Grand Treasurer.
as as as as as
Grand Grand Grand Grand Grand
Secretary. Senior Deacon. Junior Deacon. Senior Steward. Junior Steward.
as Grand Marshal. as Grand Tyler.
The Grand Lodge assembled at the lodge room of Ellsworth Lodge No. 146, A. F. & A. M . , from which place, in company with a large number of Past Grand Officers, other distinguished Masons, members of Ellsworth Lodge No. 146, of Ellsworth, and other visiting brethren, proceeded to the cemetery. At the grave the lodge burial service was conducted by the Grand Lodge. The Grand Lodge was then closed in Ample. Form. ELMER F . STRAIN,
Attest:
Grand Master. THOMAS G . FITCH,
as Grand Secretary.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
Ill
REPORT OF LIBRARIAN.
R.". W.-. ALBERT K . WILSON, Librarian, presented his annual report as follows: To the M:.W.:
Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas:
In addition to the library of the late JAMES M. MCFAELAND, which subject is covered in the report of the Grand Secretary, there has been added to our Library a number of books as indicated by the following list, as well as Proceedings of various Grand Bodies, Masonic magazines, periodicals and a valuable collection of material for our Museum Department: The Landmarks.
By SILAS H . SHEPHERD.
Proceedings Grand Imperial Council Red Cross of Constantine. 1924. Report of Committee on Masonic Home. Pennsylvania. Masonic Harp. By WiNGATE CHASE. Presented by Brother ARTHUR H . STRICKLAND.
Masonic Odes and Poems. By ROB MORRIS. Presented by Brother ARTHUR H . STRICKLAND.
Constitutions Grand Lodge of England. 1884. Minutes Fourteenth Annual Convention Washington Memorial Association. Proceedings Supreme Council Scottish Rite. Southern Jurisdiction. 1922-23. Report Masonic Home of Missouri.' Souvenir Leather Bound Book containing programs of Topeka Chapter No. 5, and Topeka Commandery No. 5. Presented by Brother LUTHER M . N E L L I S .
Pamphlet containing two addresses by Rev. C. G. WILLIAMS of Iowa. St. John the Evangelist and St. John the Baptist, by WILBUR T . NESBIT, and the Holy Saints John by C. C. HUNT. The Untrodden Paths of Masonic Research. By GILBERT W . DAYNES.
The Masonic Year Book. 1924. By the Masonic History Company, Chicago. Proceedings Supreme Council, Scottish Rite. Northern Jurisdiction. 1923. History of the Grand Council of. Connecticut. By GEORGE A. STURDY.
Masonic Trial Manual. Iowa. Report of Board of Masonic Relief. Boston.
112
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
• Proceedings Council of Deliberation Scottish Rite. 1923. The Builders.
February. New York.
By NEWTON.
One Hundred Years; The Grand Council of New York; Compiled by HERBERT W . GREENLAND.
The Constitutions of the Freemasons 1723. Fraternally submitted, ALBERT K . WILSON,
Librarian.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS^
113
REPORT OF SECRETARY OF MASONIC H O M E . To the M:. W:. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: I have the honor to present excerpts from my report made to the Board of Directors of the Kansas Masonic Home at the annual meeting held at the Home in the City of Wichita on Tuesday, January 20, 1925. To the Board of Directors of the Kansas Masonic Home: Within the year ended December 31, 1924, I received in cash items $198,790.37 from the following sources: • Raising Fees Endowment $ 22,120 00 Endowment Donations 5,940 75 Grand Lodge Relief, Refund 5 00 Mortgage Loans, Paid 25,500 00 Fourth National Bank, Loan 4,500 00 Morse Land Account Rent 302 22 Nels Nelson Land Account Rent 63 10 Sallie A. Payne Account Rent 170 00 Real Estate & I m p . Refund 388 10 O. E. S. Music Fund Donation 55 00 O. E. S. Christmas Fund Donation 1,550 25 O. E. S. Fruit Fund Donation 130 85 Maintenance, Refund 53 80 Mary A. Hepler Mem. Music Fund Interest & Donation.... 65 00 Insurance, Refund 175 19 Building Fund, Lodges 75,265 00 Lobdell-Stuart, Interest 34 00 Guardian Funds , 1,952 94 Miscellaneous Receipts..... 74 00 Income. Grand Lodge Per Capita Eastern Star Per Capita Interest Loans Interest Balances Total
$10,873 22 1,332 50
$37,632 50 5,606 95 12,205 72 ;
55,445 17 $193,790 37
All of which has been remitted to the Treasurer of the Home as per carbon copies of letters of transmittal and receipts from him. For your information and in order that p.ermanent record may be made. Endowment Donations item is composed of the following: From Organizations. Order of the Eastern Star, St. John's Day Collections Grand Commandery K. T. of Kansas, Christmas Fund Hancock Lodge No. 311, Fort Leavenworth Latham Lodge No. 401, Latham Fern Conclave True Kindred, Kansas City, Kansas
$ 1,897 802 10 50 6
42 33 00 00 00
From Estates by Bequest, Etc. Estate Hiram N. Crist, Saqui Lodge No. 160, Osborne Estate Nels Nelson, Greenleaif, Kansas Nancy E. Wartick, part of deposit by transfer Olive M. Haskell, balance estate E. C. Murphy, balance estate
$ 1,000 2,000 1,000 71 20
00 00 00 99 00
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February,
From Members and Friends. A. K. Wilson, Grand Sec'y, Certificate Life Memberships.. .$ Thos. R. Hyatt, Orient Lodge No. 51, Topeka Geo. Trask, Orient Lodge No. 51, Topeka C. L. Woodington, Orient Lodge No. 51, Topeka C. R. Twiss, Kaw Lodge No. 272, Kansas City W. I. Ferguson, Kaw Lodge No. 272, Kansas City R. S. Pinegar, Kaw Lodge No. 272, Kansas City A. T. Long, Kaw Lodge No. 272, Kansas City J. A. Mahaffie, Sahna Consistory L. L. Burchinal, Formosa, Donation, son of member of Home Family Unknown Donor Chas. E. Smith, Albert Pike Lodge No. 303, Wichita, and Wichita Consistory Oliver H. Russell, Wichita Consistory E. H.. Alsdorf, member of Siloam Lodge No. 225, Topeka, Residence, Winslow, Arizona Raising Fees for 1923 Making a Grand Total of
11 5 5 3 10 10 1 1 10
00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00
100 00 10 00 5 00 3 00 1 00
$ 7,032 74 22,120 00 $29,152 74
On January 1, 1924, Endowment Fund was $154,912.98 to which when above amount is added will make the Endowment Fund on January 1, 1925, $184,065.72. Within the year warrants were drawn in the sum of $180,679.43 which were charged to the following accounts: Mortgage Loans made $53,600 00 Accrued Interest on same 529 20 $ 54,129 20 Grand Lodge Relief 2,006 50 Morse Land Account 179 66 Sallie A. Payne Land Account 91 12 Nels Nelson Land Account 23 15 Guardian Funds 5,128 00 Real Estate and Improvements 40,604 54 Insurance 1,611 47 Funerals and Cemetery 681 38 Furniture and Fixtures 8,512 24 0 . E. S. Christmas Fund 1,550 25 O. E. S. Music Fund 55 00 O. E. S. Fruit Fund 130 85 Maintenance 53,320 93 Mrs. C. M. Beck 6 00 Fourth National Bank, Loan Paid 12,500 00 Mary A. Hepler, Memorial Music Fund 60 00 Wm. Leighty Loan 89 14 Total
$180,679 43.
Detailed report relating to expenditures charged to accounts of Real Estate and Improvements and Furniture and Fixtures will be found in reports of the Executive and House Committees.
1924-25.
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Included in the item of Maintenance will be found Expense Items as follows: Secretary's Office : $ , 660 00 Typewriter 82 50 Directors and Committee expenses 336 28 Home Physician 600 00 Bonus Mr. and Mrs. Snell 300 00 Bonds 75 00 Safety Deposit Safe 35 00 Abstract Fee K. M. H 3 50 Total $2,092 28 Summary of accounts for the year follows: January 1, 1924^Balance in Treasury. Receipts for 1924 : '. Total December 31, 1924—Paid in Warrants in year Balance in Treasury Total Trial Balance of Home Accounts follows: Debit Balances. Treasurer Mortgage Loans Morse Land Account Wm. Leighty Loan •Real Estate and Improvements Mrs. C. M. Beck Land Account. Maintenance Funerals and Cemetery Furniture and Fixtures Insurance Grand Lodge Relief Sallie A. Payne Land Account Miscellaneous Expense Total
$ 2,650 193,790 $196,441 $180,679 15,761 $196,441
71 37 08 43 65 08
15,761 172,050 2,488 89 498,684 7 536,223 8,645 37,255 9,212 2,001 1,435 574 $1,284,429
65 00 49 14 19 25 05 73 78 10 50 46 86 20
$
Credit Balances. • Guardian Funds $ 1,643 26 Interest 104,860 13 O. E. S. Per Capita 67,584 70 Endowment 184,065 72 Knights Templar Building Fund 50 00 Nels Nelson Land Account 84 Mary A. Hepler Memorial Music Fund 1,005 00 Grand Lodge Per Capita 493,036 30 Grand Lodge Donations 59,666 41 Building Fund O. E. S.. 35,000 00 Building Fund Lodges 329,651 01 Furnishing Fund 0. E. S 5,362 56 Morris Educational Fund 100 00 Lobdell-Stuart Library Fund 1,034 94 Miscellaneous Receipts 1,368 33 Total $1,284,429 20 Above accounts date from inception of the Home.
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PROCEEDINGS
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February,
Of the total of $172,050.00 invested in interest bearing securities, $ 1,000 00 bears interest at 4 % 800 00 bears interest at 4}4% 3,800 00 bears interest at 5 } ! % 84,950 00 bears interest at 6 % . 20,000 00 bears interest at 6 H % 59,000 00 bears interest at 7 % 2,500 00 bears interest at 7 H % In the year we collected $10,873.22 interest on loans or an average of 6.32%. It is to be noted this year as last that the average rate of interest was less than for the year 1923 and it will probably be less for the year 1925. This is due to a reduction.in the rate of interest on farm loans. Interest on daily balances in hand was computed at the rate of 3 % per annum. This produced as shown $1,332.50 making total of interest received in the year, $12,205.72. The record shows we have a net credit of interest collected, $104,860.13. As a matter of fact the total interest collections have been considerable more than this amount. We have charged to this account interest on trust funds upon settlement with minor heirs when they obtain their majority. These payments will naturally reduce the total interest item. It affords me pleasure and considerable satisfaction to report t h a t there is no delinquent interest upon any of our current loans. The only exception is the loan to W M . LEIGHTY, $2,500.00, now in foreclosure, heretofore reported upon. The taxes for 1923 and previous, years on all lands on which we hold mortgages have been paid as shown by reports made to this office since June 20, 1924. To this date we have never sustained loss of principal or interest upon'any of our loans and the LEIGHTY loan is the first foreclosure we have been compelled to make. Annual cost of Maintenance at the Home since 1916 follows: 1917 $24,439 76 1921 $39,782 65 1918 24,676 75 1922 42,770 27 1919 36,447 61 1923 46,148 49 1920... 40,913 71 1924 53,320 93 By months for years ended November 30, 1923 and 1924, warrants charged to Maintenance Account were as follows: 1923 1924 December $ 3,418 79 $ 4,59l'51 January 4,183 86 5,318 51 February '. 3,105 20 4,257 51 March 3,954 59 4,659 13 April 3,142 96 3,848 72 May 3,540 90 3,074 56 June : 3,443 99 3,609 05 July 2,787 09 3,186 50 August 3,404 85 4,006 98 September 3,906 91 4,050 26 October 4,524 60 5,415 84 November 4,415 76 5,210 08 $43,829 50 $51,228 65 General Expenses 2,318 99 . 2,092 28 Total $46,148 49 $58,320 93
1924-25.
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OF KANSAS.
117
Superintendent's report shows average membership of the Home family since 1916 as follows: 88 1919.... ....100 1921.... ....128 1923.... 161 ; 94" 1920.... ....113M 1922.... ....154 1924.... ....174 At present of the 210 names .on the roster of the Home 176 are actually in the Home. Per Capita cost based on above averages shows as follows: 1917....$277 72 1919....$364 47 1921....$310 80 1923....$286 64 1918.... 262 50 1920... 360 47 1922.... 277 78. 1924.... 306 44 This includes all expense items of the Home and of Administration in fact all items save those charged to Real Estate, Furniture and Fixtures, and Funerals and Cemetery. The record shows our income for 1924 to have been $55,445.17 and our expenses of actual maintenance to have been $53,320.93. This would indicate an apparent surplus of receipts over expenditures of $2,124.24, if however we should add to our maintenance cost amount charged to Funerals and Cemetery, $681.38 and to Insurance, $1,611.47 or total of $2,292.85, we would be found to have a deficit of $168.61 for the year and this notwithstanding the fact that we collected $12,205.72 in interest. In the absence of our interest collections we would have had a startling deficit for the year. The Home Per Capita was increased from $286.64 for the year 1923 to $306.44 for the year 1924. This may be accounted for by increased cost of supplies and probably somewhat on account of the fact that the buildings were more or less torn up. Upon present basis of costs it is not considered that the per capita cost of $306.44 per annum is excessive. Our income for the year 1925 may be estimated as. follows: Grand Lodge Per Capita $39,000 O. E. S. Per Capita 5,900 Interest Loans 11,500 Interest on balances 1,600 Total
00 00 00 00
$57,000 00
Total expenses for the year 1925 may not be expected to be less than those for 1924. This on account of the growth and increasing number in the Home Family and the advance in the cost of supplies. Expenditures made on behalf of the M.'.W.*. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. for the year ending November 30, 1924, were'$2,006.50 of which amount $5.00 was refunded, leaving balance due of $2,001.50, which amount has been repaid to us by the Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge, however, the voucher was not received until in January, 1925, consequently will not appear in the receipts for 1924.
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PROCEEDINGS
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February,
We have insurance in force as follows: FIRE.
Main Buildings. .Expires. Amount. National Liberty 6-15-29 $ 5,000 00 Ins. Co. of N. A 6-15-29 5,000 00 Philadelphia 11-25-29 5,000 00 Milwaukee 6-24-29 5,000 00 American Central.... 6-24-29 5,000 00 American Central....11-28-29 2,500 00 $27,500 00 Chapel. American Central.... 1-9-25 $ 5,000 00 5,000 00 Barn and Contents. National Liberty 6-20-29 7,000 00 7,000 00 Total Fire on Buildings $39,500 00 Furniture—Main Buildings. American Central.... 7-26-27 $ 500 00 Central States 7-26-27 500 00 Home 7-26-27 1,000 00 American Central.... 6-24-29 4,000 00 $ 6,000 00 Furniture—Isolation Co.tage. Phoenix 6-26-29 1,000 00 1,000 00 Fixtures—Laundry. Aetna 6-24-25 1,000 00 1,000 00 8,000 00 Total Fire ...$47,500 00 Boiler and Accident. Hartford Steam Boiler Co 9-1-26 $15,000 00 $15,000 00 TORNADO.
Buildings. Expires. • Amount. Rhode Island 2-18-29 $10,000 00 Camden Fire 2-18-29 10,000 00 National Liberty .... 2-18-29 30,000 00 American Central... 2-12-29 10,000 00 Aetna 2-18-29 25,000 00 American Central.... 2-18-29 10,000 00 Hartford 2-18-29 10,000 00 ' Phoenix....: 2-18-29 15,000 00 Ins. Co. of N. A 2-18-29 15,000 00 Central States 2-18-29 10,000 00 American Insurance 2-18-29 10,000 00 National 2-18-29 10,000 00 Niagara 2-18-29 15,000 00 New Hampshire 2-18-29 15,000 00 Niagara 2-18-29 15,000 00 Star ; 2-18-29 15,000 00 Philadelphia 2-18-29 10,000 00 Eagle Star 2-18-29 10,000 00 Home Fire & M 2-18-29 20,000 00 London Assurance .. 2-18-29 20,000 00 Marquette Nat 2-18-29 10,000 00 Commercial Union .. 2-18-29 20,000 00 Providence Wash 2-18-29 10,000 00 Firemen's Ins 2-18-29 10,000 00 Total $335,000 00
1924-25.
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OF KANSAS.
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Above covers tornado insurance on all the buildings on the Home grounds, and is written upon the basis of 90 % co-insurance. Completed papers in all mortgage loans including insurance policies, duplicate of receipts for all monies received and letters of transmittal of same together with all books of account of the Secretary, duly balanced are herewith presented with this report. Fraternally submitted, THOMAS G . FITCH,
Secretary. The foregoing report having been referred to the Finance Committee, the report of said committee follows: Your Committee on Finance have very carefully checked all the records, vouchers and abstracts of accounts of the Secretary and find loans and records accurate, neat and correct. We have examined all papers in connection with the loans and bonds, a detailed statement appearing in the report of the Secretary and find everything correct. We have also examined .the insurance policies. Fire and Tornado, covering buildings and furnishings of the Home. (Signed)
EMMA M . VIETS, J. W. NEILSON, C. N; FOWLER,
Finance Committee.
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February,
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON REPORTS OF GRAND OFFICERS. M.-. W.-. B E N S . P A U L E N , , c h a i r m a n , presented t h e fol-
lowing report, which, on his motion, was a d o p t e d : To the M:. W:. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: Your Committee on Reports of Grand Officers have read with great interest the well prepared and admirable address of the M/. W/. Grand Master, and have the following report to .submit covering the various subjects therein contained: While the preface to his address needs no reference to a committee, yet we heartily commend it to your careful reading and consideration. The following important subjects, indicating the great interest manifested by the Grand Master in the Craft during the year, need no reference to a committee, as they are either authorized by law or come within his province: Installation of Grand. Officers. Masonic Home. Grand Representatives. Special Communications. Grand Orator. Associate Officers. Personal. That portion of the address under the subject of "Special Dispensations" having reference to the collection of fees, is referred to the Committee on Finance and Property. To the Committee on Jurisprudence is referred the following: Standards. Decisions. Transfer of Membership. Ruling No. 106. . Grand Lodge Dues. Social Affairs. To the Committee on Chartered Lodges and Lodges U. D., we refer the following subjects: Domestic Relations—New Lodges—Lost Charters. Growth. Allen Lodge. That relating to "Foreign Relations" is referred to the Committee on Correspondence. The reference to the fraternal dead is referred to the Committee on Necrology.
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The duty of this Committee, as prescribed by Section 31 of the Grand Lodge By-Laws, is to distribute the various subjects embraced in the reports of the Grand Officers to the appropriate standing committees for consideration. The foregoing subjects have been referred in accordance with the provisions of the above law. There are, however, several topics which do not come under the authority of any of the standing committees, and it is therefore suggested that the following be referred to a Special Committee to report at this Annual Communication: District Meetings. Lecturers. Funeral Service. Miscellaneous. The Grand Master refers to subjects under the head of "Lodge Trials," "Balloting," "Courtesies Exchanged," " a n d Physical Qualifications," following with a recommendation that these matters be referred to a committee of three to be appointed by the incoming Grand Master for a report at our next Annual Communication. We therefore refer these subjects to that Special Committee. GRAND T R E A S U R E R ' S REPORT.
The report of our Grand Treasurer comes to us in its usual succinct and well arranged order, and it is referred to the Committee on Finance and Property. GRAND SECRETARY'S REPORT.
This report comes to us in its usual standard form, the subjects being condensed as much as possible. The Grand Secretary- makes formal report under the following captions, which need no reference to any standing or special committee: Proceedings 1924. Historical Registry. Binding Proceedings. Charters Issued. Lodges Under Dispensation. Copies of Charters. Change in Districts. Masonic Districts. Grand Representatives. Halls Burned. Additional Historical Filing Case. • Reduced Railroad Fare. List of Regular Lodges. Allen Lodge U. D. Grand Secretary's Certificates. Official Circulars, Summary for 1924.
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February,
We refer the following subjects to the Committee on Finance and Property: Bond of Grand Treasurer. Estimated Revenue and Expenses for the Ensuing Year. All Financial Exhibits, showing receiJDts, payments to Grand Treasurer, and disbursements. Exhibit " T . " The following is referred to the Committee on Jurisprudence: Conferring Degrees in Less than the Required Time. Fees for Certificates. Members of Defunct Lodges. Official Stenographer. Blanks and Record Books. Assistant to Grand Secretary. Card Form of Official Receipt. Illegal Suspension of Members for Nonpayment of Dues. Transcript of Trials. To the Committee on Chartered Lodges and Lodges U. D., is referred the following: Restoration of Charters. Books of Annual Returns. Paradise Lodge No. 290, Plainville. Annual Election. Annual Reports. There are four subjects deserving of special consideration, and as they cannot be classified under any of the standing committees, it is suggested that they also be referred to the Special Committee to be appointed a t this Annual Communication, to consider certain portions of the Grand Master's address, as follows: History of Lodges. The JAMES M . MCFARLAND Library. Oil painting of M.-. W.-. RICHARD R . R E E S .
Librarian's Report. Fraternally submitted, B E N S . PAULEN, JAY B . KIRK, JAMES F . AYRBS,
CHARLES W . MILLER, J R . , JACOB LUND, Committee.
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SPECIAL COMMITTEE.
In accordance with the-recommendation contained in the report of the Committee on Reports of Grand Officers, the[M.-. W.-. Grand Master appointed the following Special Committee: M.'. W.-. HENRY F . MASON, W.-. JAY B . K I R K , M . - . W . - . WILLIAM L . BURDICK.
CALL PROM LABOR TO R E F R E S H M E N T .
The Grand Master called the M.-.W.'.Grand Lodge from labor to refreshment until 1:30 P. M.
AFTERNOON SESSION. February 25, 1925. The Grand Master called the M.-.W.-. Grand Lodge from refreshment to labor at 1:30 P. M. WEDNESDAY,
ORATION.
The
M.-. W.-. Grand Master introduced Brother J. HOPKINS, member of Tyrian Lodge No. 246, who delivered the following oration, which, on motion of R.-. W.-. CHARLES A. LOUCKS, was ordered printed in the Annual Proceedings: RICHARD
THE TRUSTEESHIP OF A MASTER MASON. Men are not great except through the accomplishment of high purpose. Good thoughts, high ideals and great resolutions avail nothing unless converted into action. The process of accomplishment is divided into three parts: thought, resolution to do, and action conformable thereto.
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February.
We, as Master Masons, have high duties to perform. We are here today because of the compelling force of those magic words—"human brotherhood." While we meet in peace a war-worn world is torn by jealousies and animosities. The very atmosphere is vibrant with discord and the clash of human passions. What the world needs more than anything else is to learn the lesson of brotherly love, and in all the earth there is no organization so well equipped as ours to carry and teach the lesson. If civilization is to advance, if human life is to grow, if it is to bear its proper fruit in individual or collective achievement its roots must go down to bed-rock in the soil of right convictions. The temple of life must be built upon a secure foundation. Masonry is a moral science; it teaches the art of right living; it develops the study of manhood; it moulds one's character; it is not confined to time nor race nor clime; it is universal; it has come down to us through countless ages; it is linked with the eternal in the plan of creation; it has survived and will survive changing dynasties, changing religions and crumbling nations; its teachings and principles are pure, lofty, forceful, progressive; they teach the fatherhood of GOD and the brotherhood of man; they teach the dignity of labor and the honor of manhood. They regard neither wealth, rank nor station. The spirit of Masonry is not limited to those in power nor to those of the gilded home. It moves among the desolate homes of men, amidst the poor and the neglected. It strives to lift the burden of the afflicted and to ameliorate their sufferings. The Great Master, the Architect of the Universe has entrusted us with these lessons and teachings of a Master Mason—lessons which if properly understood and put into practical effect, would make this world a far better place in which to live. We are, therefore, trustees with one of the most sacred trusts ever delegated to man. The impulse of creation is the upbuilding of the human individual. This earth is only a speck in GOD'S great universe. Human life here is a pilgrimage toward a higher end. The whole journey of life from the cradle to the tomb is a continual
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search for light. On this pilgrimage no man lives to himself alone. Every Master Mason on life's journey is, to some extent, his brother's keeper. As a trustee, he holds the teachings and lessons of Masonry in trust for the benefit of all mankind. A trust is ordinarily reposed in one who, it is thought, may best carry out its purposes. A man is permitted to join this great fraternity because it is thought he will perpetuate its principles and carry out its objects. A trustee is bound to act. with fidelity, with the utmost good faith, with discretion and wisdom, with unselfish singleness of purpose. His private and personal interest must be subordinated to his trust wherever the two may come in conflict. Every trustee must some day render an accounting. He must transmit the trust untarnished to his successor. If he has perfoi med his duties with fidelity, discretion and wisdom, the trust estate will have greatly enlarged and profited by his endeavors. If the Master Mason would perform his full duty, if he would exemplify the great principles of brotherly love which he has heard at the altar of Freemasonry, he must be sure to have earnestly endeavored to learn the lessons there taught. He must investigate himself, he must examine his conscience, he must be certain that he does not have too high a degree of self esteem. He must appraise his Masonic work in order to ascertain how good and how true it is. To neglect his days is to neglect his years which is the neglect of his destiny and the neglect of his trust. He must think, resolve and act. The great compelling power that governs the world is moral character. Entering into moral character are certain elements which are as essential and necessary as is a firm foundation to a building. The Master Mason who would best perform the trust reposed in him must first look to his own character. He must be sure that he is endowed with its essential elements. He must be honest, industrious, prudent. He must have courage, patience, fortitude. He must possess right habits of life. Every man is largely the architect of his own career. Character is a; "perfectly educated will." It is " a diamond that scratches every other stone." It is one of the most
126
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February,
valuable investments one may make. He will never mistake who makes character and personal force the end and aim of intellectual discipline. Among the requisite elements of a high moral character is industry; industry will improve great talents; it will supply deficiencies of moderate or ordinary ability. Nothing is attained without it, and, with the other essentials, nothing is denied to well-directed labor. Indolence is the parent of misery and despair, while industry commands the richest rewards. Another of the essentials is courage. A courage that consists not in blindly overlooking danger, but in seeing, comprehending and conquering it. Another is prudence. The richest endowments of the mind are prudence, temperance, fortitude and justice. Prudence is a universal virtue which enters into the composition of all the rest. It is a conformity to the rules of reason and truth. Habit is one of the chief ingredients of character. Any act or thought often repeated forms a habit. "They gather by unseen degrees, as brooks make rivers, rivers run to seas." As flakes of snow that fall imperceptibly,—so, unimportant events of life succeed one another; as the snow flakes gather; so one's habits are formed. No single flake produces a perceptible change, neither does a single act, but all taken together comprise the whole. Doctor JOHNSON said, "The chains of habit are generally too small to be felt until they are too strong to be broken." Honesty is one of the essential elements of character. Honesty reaps its reward. It satisfies one's conscience. It should be the breath of our souls—our "shield and buckler" —our "helmet and crown." If it is, our souls can walk upright. With tranquil eye we may look the world in the face. "This, above all else, to thine own self be true, and it must follow, as the night, the day, thou canst not then be false to any man." Right thinking has much to do with the course of a well spent life. Every thought that is useless or without purpose should be discarded. Thought is the "Mother of Progress." It is a force, which, when aroused, "is as
1924-25.
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resistless as the dawn." Every law upon the statute books was once a thought in some man's brain. No great reform was ever inaugurated except that some thinker blazed the way. There never was a time in the history of the world when so much depended upon right thinking as today. One of the greatest aids to success is to have one's thoughts directed in the right channel. One's associates and surroundings have largely to do with what he thinks and does. It was the thought of the Master Mind of LANFRANC, the scholar, that caused WILLIAM the Conqueror to go over to England. I t was thought, resolution and courage, that led our revolutionary forefathers into the great war of Independence,—that made America an independent nation. It was thought, resolution, courage and a reverence for eternal justice, that struck off the shackles of slavery and made the colored race a free people. "Back of the beating hammer By which the steel is wrought, Back of the workshop's clamour Is always found the thought; The thought that is ever master Of iron and steam and steel, That rises above disaster And tramples it under heel. Might of the roaring boiler, Force of the engine's thrust, Strength of the sweating toiler. Always in these we trust; But back of them stands the thinker The thinker who drives things through; Back of the job the dreamer ' Who's making the dream come true." The secret of the remarkable success of THEODORE was not so much that he was quick as that he was prepared for and took advantage of opportunities when they came. He was a thinker who possessed the courage to put his thoughts into action. Opportunity goes everywhere—across the continents and the seas,— ROOSEVELT
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February,
she knocks at every door,—in the homes of the rich and poor,—in the busy marts of trade, and in the offices of the elect. Senator INGALLS was not entirely right when he said: "Opportunity knocks but once at every man's door." "For every day Opportunity stands outside your door And bids you wake, and rise to fight and win. Wail not for perished chances passed away! Weep not for golden ages on the wane! Each night Opportunity burns the records of the day. At sunrise every soul is born again. When down in mire, wring not your hands and weep. No shame-faced outcast ever sank so deep But yet Triight rise and be again a man. Art thou a mourner? Rouse thee from thy spell. Art thou a sinner? Sins may be forgiven. Each morning gives thee wings to flee from hell. Each night a star to guide thy feet to Heaven." Present opportunities, if rightly used, are as great as the soul need ask. A great part of the strength of life consists in the degree with which we get into harmony with our appointed environment. One's own efforts will enlarge his opportunities. If he has within him the essential ingredients he can conquer the difficulties that beset his career. So conquering, he will be stcong! " H e conquers who believes he can!" He conquers who first learns self-government—"who conquers himself." There never was an age in which greater opportunities were offered than our own for the accomplishment of high purpose. The age is one in which all the elements of advancing civilization are at work. Our country, more than any other, offers a fair and equal field for all who enter upon it. A Master Mason should be cheerful always. He should avoid pretense and worry. He should be always what he professes to be. Every moment of discontent and worry weakens the soul for its daily combat. A well-ordered life is serene. It is neither discouraged nor dissatisfied with its present lot. It knows no foreboding of future ill.
1924-25.
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There is no road but will be easier traveled, no load but will be lighter, no shadow on heart or brain but will sooner disappear for a person of determined cheerfulness, —for one who calmly, seriously, steadfastly and vigorously keeps his course according to reason and justice. If one meets trouble he should "begin to whistle and it will step aside." He should always look for the "silver lining" in the cloud. If days come that are dark with the clouds of sadness and despair, he should never forget " t h a t beyond the clouds is the sun still shining." Consider the life of ABRAHAM LINCOLN-— "In the unspoiled solitudes of the forest he was born and grew. Uncursed by culture and uncramped by creed, He kept his course courageous and alone, As goes the Mississippi to the sea. His daring spirit burst the narrow bounds, rose resolute, And like the sea-called stream. He tore new channels where he found no way. Tools were his first teachers, sternly kind,— The plow, the scythe, the oar, the echoing axe. Taught him their homely wisdom and their peace." If you would fulfill your trust—if you would be of service to mankind—a benefactor of the race—^learn endurance of labor with the tools you possess. Gird yourself for the battle that is on, and remember always that " h e serves best who serves most." This world can be made a better place in which to live. To do so demands high ideals— the spirit of brotherhood, —the desire to make one's own life count for the good of all. Business should be filled with the spirit of service instead of the spirit of greed. Political parties should be made instruments of righteousness. How are we to accomplish these things? Not by complacently sitting down and waiting for someone to act for us. We must act. We should have peace among the nations. We should have a better social order—less greed and self-seeking and more
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February,
of real patriotic devotion to the common weal. There should be an end to war. Unless with our marvelous development along financial, industrial and political lines, there has been developed in the average individual a type of manhood greater, broader, better, nobler than any which civilization has heretofore produced, then our house is "builded on the sand." The greatness of a nation depends not on population nor acreage of territory, nor wealth, nor strength of battleships, but in its moral elevation, the purity of its ideals, the intensity of its devotion to principles of justice and liberty,—the character of its people. Institutions alone, however good they may be, cannot maintain the standard of national character. Political rights will ,not elevate a depraved people. Freedom and liberty become a menace if the individual is licentious and corrupt or has the wrong standards of life. No government was ever created or perpetuated by accident. It must be ever nurtured and guarded by good citizens who must contend always and actively against the vices that would creep into it. It is a splendid thing to be against wrong; but it is a far better thing to fight wrong. A new civilization needs soldiers of peace, rather than soldiers of war. America flourishing here, between two great oceans, on soil consecrated to the principles of liberty and self-government, is a dominant power among the nations. But unless America shall act she has failed of her opportunity. She has failed in her duty to civilization; she has violated her sacred trust. There are great tasks ahead. Problems confronting mankind as important as any that have ever confronted the human race. They stand outside our doors waiting attention. A chaotic world must be reorganized. We should have men of foresight and vision. Give us men to match our mountains; Give us men to match our plains; Men with empires in their bosoms And new eras in their brains. These are pioneer days, and like the pioneer we must go out and meet new and changing conditions. A pioneer is
1924-25.
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one who goes before to prepare the way—it may be a path in the wilderness, it may be new methods in industry, or he may be opening up new lines of thought for the conduct of ours lives. FLORENCE NIGHTINGALE was a pioneer when she took her company of nurses into the Crimea and prepared the way for the great Red Cross movement. The pioneer registers action, change and advance. He is a man of discernment. He discards wrong thoughts and bad habits. He takes with him the best of the old life. He dreams of going out into a larger life. His spirit stirs. His will responds. He goes. His one great essential is Faith—"the substance of things hoped for,—the evidence of things not seen." To succeed, we must have faith in ourselves and in each other and faith in the future. We must be willing to sacrifice to bring about our ideal. The man who deliberately turns from the path of ease to the path of sacrifice, is the hero of the world and the mainspring of progress. The fields of influence are reached only by toiling up the steep hills of difficulty. We each have within us the same divine spark, the same potential force, the same heritage of the ages. Will we prove worthy heirs? Will we be true to the trust reposed in us? To succeed we must think, aspire. We must see rightly,—respond quickly. We must put great thoughts into action. Let us consider the problem of life seriously. Let us have a fixed aim; a purpose which we will acccomplish, a work which we will do. Not the plan for a year only; not the purpose which tomorrow may change; but a fixed aim, to which everything shall be made to bend, which everything shall be made to subserve. No one ever will or can be better or greater than he aspires to be. Aspiration is the response of the soul to the voice which echoes through the chambers of conscience. Far too often we fail to heed it. Our great fault is the want of a fixed aim, and of resolution in keeping it. A want of self-reliance. Too readily we yield our principles and purposes to those around us. Instead of forming ourselves after the model which we a t first held before us, we suffer ourselves to be moulded by others. One should never get the conviction that his con-
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duct or character is above improvement and discipline. We should avoid envy, duplicity, hypocrisy. We should love and uphold truth and justice. We should have a guide in order to walk straight. We should select an upstanding man to follow. The world today needs men who can and will do good work, true work, such work as is needed in building the temple of sound, sturdy and manly'character. There is a need for men of energy, courage, vision and unimpeachable character to impart the undying principles of Masonry to the citizenship of the world. The principles of Masonry should be so woven into the loom of time that men may neither mistake nor disregard them. The whole vast pyramid of humanity is built on the influence of one over another. One cannot measure his influence. The most casual contacts may have far-reaching effect of which we may never hear. Every man is the mosaic of some other man. From the hour that PAUL met JESUS OP NAZARETH on the Damascus road PAUL was a changed man. In VICTOR HUGO'S great masterpiece JEAN VALJEAN becomes almost the Bishop over again. Therefore let our Masonic light shine not alone in the formal moments of the lodge, but let it be a beacon for every moment of our lives. He who withholds his knowledge, his influence, his helpful association from his fellow man is not entitled to commendation. " T o whom much is given, from him shall much be required." We are endowed, as trustees, with the light of Freemasonry that we may lighten the pathway of others. Therefore, instead of locking it up unused in the safety deposit box let it prevail in the home, in the business office, in the machine shop. Let it prevail back of the counter in the store, around the council table, and in the halls of justice. Let us bring down to each passing moment the age-old but changeless Golden Rule—Do unto others as we would that they should do unto us. Let us make good usie of the treasure placed in our hands. Let us strive without ceasing for the right and we shall have the reward of those "who labor not in vain." We may then look forward to the coming man—the Mason of the future. He will exhibit tenderness and goodness and
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love. He will be kind to the poor, tender to the erring, illuminating to those in darkness. He will be strength to the weak. He will be " a merchantman freighting ships to Heaven and souls will be his cargoes;" for such a one "Cancels the curse of Eden, and brings them a blessing instead. Blessed are they that labor, for Jesus partakes of their bread. He puts His hand to their burdens, He enters their homes at night— Who does his best shall have as his guest the Master of Life and Light. And courage will come with His presence, and patience return at His touch; And manifold sins be forgiven to those who love Him much; And the cries of envy and anger will change to the songs^. of cheer. For the toiling age will forget, its rage when the Princeof Peace draws near."
SPECIAL ADDRESS.
The following Special Address, to be delivered during the year at all District Meetings and subsequently in all Lodges, and which had been prepared by authority of the Grand Lodge and on instructions from the M.*. W.'. Grand Master was delivered by W.". ROBERT P. McCOLLOCH:
MASONIC TRADITIONS. " * * * * Nothing stands alone, The chain holdson, and where it ends, unknown." The origin of man is a subject of absorbing interest. Scarcely less interesting is that of man's institutions. Among these institutions, having beginning before recorded history, is Freemasonry. Many theories have been advanced as to its origin, some having foundation in trust-
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worthy traditions, but none of these so definitely certain as to admit of absolute proof. Nevertheless, a number of them are well supported by reason and analogy, and invite attention iand study, since a review of them will be valuable in asserting our claim to the antiquity of our Fraternity, its basic principles as the common property of mankind, and of universal acceptance. Masonic traditions are of two kinds, and need so to be distinguished. They are the traditions which relate to Freemasonry as a constituted Fraternity, and those having to do with the origin and development of Masonic Symbolism. This address will deal with the historical traditions of the Craft. Those associated with its Symbolism, designated as the "Legend of the Craft," may be the subject of some future paper. It is highly desirable that the traditions be thus treated, for much confusion and misunderstanding have arisen be•cause of the method whereby these traditions have often been studied and presented. By such method there has been a sad mingling of the historical, symbolical, mythical, with a consequent criticism, perplexity and even ridicule. The method has been productive of much discussion among Masonic scholars, all of which has tended to lead the average Mason into a maze out of which he could have no clear understanding either of the traditions, the legends, or the myths. It may be helpful if, before entering upon a study of the historical traditions, we distinguish between the words ^'Tradition," "Legend" and " M y t h . " Very often these words are used without discrimination, and there is lack of correct understanding. A Tradition is defined to be" " t h e transmission of knowledge, opinions, doctrines, customs, practices, from generation to generation, originally by word of mouth and by example, and afterwards embodied in literature or, •continuing to be unwritten, to have the force of actual fact." A Legend is " a narrative, based on traditions, with some intermixture of fact, springing up among a people unconsciously and embodying a popular belief."
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A Myth is a creature of the imagination, " a narrative presented as historically true, but being without any basis of fact." ' Now, all these are present in Freemasonry, and all rightly belong. But each must be considered in its right relation, else there is misconception both of the history and the philosophy of the Fraternity. The authentic history of Modern Freemasonry is fixed by general agreement to have had its beginning in the year 1717. In the month of June of that year, at London, England, the first Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons was duly constituted. The event is regarded as perhaps the most momentous in all Masonic history, for in the organization of this first Grand Lodge there was the evolution of Freemasonry from its Operative to its Speculative form. It has sometimes been urged that this act constituted the beginning of Freemasonry; the creation of an,entirely new system having no background of tradition, and no connection with the Operative Freemasonry long before existing in England and many other countries of the world. This contention is not well supported, since, at the time of the formation of the first Grand Lodge, there were, in England and in other of the European countries. Masonic lodges of long, even ancient standing. The first Grand Lodge was organized by the union of four such lodges then existing in the city of London, the members of which, "together with some old brothers," met at the Apple Tree Tavern and constituted themselves a Grand Lodge, pro tempore. Subsequently, and in the month of June, 1717, at a meeting held at the Goose and Gridiron ale-house in St. Paul's Churchyard, the temporary organization was made permanent, Grand Officers were elected and were invested with badges of office and power, installed, and given the "honors" due them. It was in this manner that the transition from the Operative to the Speculative form was accomplished. In this evolution the science of Architecture, long practiced in all countries of ancient and medieval times, and finding visible expression in the wonderful and magnificient
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temples, shrines and cathedrals, was Spiritualized, and made the foundation upon which was built the philosophy which we know as Speculative Freemasonry. Since, then. Operative Freemasonry is the base upon which rests Speculative Freemasonry, the question which now concerns us is this: "When and where did Operative Freemasonry originate?" Here we are confronted with many difficulties. We must have recourse to traditions to find the answer. The problem becomes one of separating tradition from legend and myth. The solution must lie in the discovery of a tradition which, by reason and analogy, may be relied upon as the sure basis of Freemasonry in its Operative form. But before entering upon a search for such a tradition it will be well to review numerous theories advanced touching the question of that origin. A brief examination of these will support the proposition already advanced that the mixture of history, tradition, legend and myth has so confused the minds of Masons that many yet believe Freemasonry, in all its actuality, symbolism and philosophy, to have existed since the beginning of time and man. A number of these theories have origin in old manuscripts dating back to the year 1390, and bearing evidence of being copies of other manuscripts, lost or destroyed, of much earlier, even ancient date. These manuscripts are known as "The Legend of the Craft," and are in form both as a short poem and as prose narratives of considerable length. According to these old manuscripts Operative Freemasonry began in this manner: One, LAMECHE, who lived before NOAH'S flood, was the father of four children who possessed knowledge of the science of Geometry, or Masonry. Anticipating the coming of the deluge they constructed pillars, one of marble, that fire would not biirn, and one of bricks, that would not drown in water, and in these pillars placed writings of the science which they knew. • When the flood subsided one of these pillars was found, and in it the writings, which became the groundwork of all building thereafter. Thus was know-
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ledge of the science of Geometry, or Masonry, preserved, rescued and transmitted from age to age, from country to country, by those who had it in exclusive possession. Another theory, known as the Andersonian theory, is one deriving its name from a distinguished clergyman, eminent scholar and accomplished Mason, Rev. JAMES ANDERSON, D . D . Shortly after the organization of the Grand Lodge of England, in which task Dr. ANDERSON had a large part, ,he was, by the then Grand Master, the DUKE OF MONTAGUE, selected and ordered to "peruse, correct, and digest into a new and better method, the History, Charges and Regulations of the most ancient Fraternity." This he did, and his great work received unanimous approbation. It was then ordained that the work should be received in every lodge under the Grand Jurisdiction as the ONLY CONSTITUTIONS of Free and Accepted Masons.' This monumental work, first published in the year 1723, under the title of "The Constitutions of F R E E MASONS, containing the History, Charges, Regulations, &c, of that Most Ancient and Right Worshipful Fraternity," has ever since been recognized as authority in all "regular and well governed lodges" of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons. In the preparation of this work Dr. ANDERSON had access to a number of the ancient records, among them the manuscripts containing the Legend of the Craft. This Legend he amplified and injected into it many of his own ideas. He carried the origin of the Fraternity back to ADAM, or the first man; giving to him credit for full knowledge of Geometry, or Masonry, and making him the first Free-Mason. Another theory entirely separates Speculative from Operative Masonry, holding the former to be a purely religious profession originating in Eden and passed on by patriarchs and sages; its symbolism taking form from the religious rites and ceremonies of the Pagans. An eminent scholar of the eighteenth century maintains that the science existed before the creation of our own
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world, being diffused among the many worlds making up the universe. According to another learned brother. Masonry had its beginnings with the Druids. Again, it has been urged that the origin is discovered in the Mysteries of the Ancients, and this because of a similarity of creeds concerning death and resurrection. A very popular theory is one which asserts the Fraternity had birth at the building of KING SOLOMON'S Temple. That behef is even now held by a very large number, perhaps a majority, of the membership. It is stoutly maintained by numerous writers, and by other of the brethren who make no special claim to having particular knowledge or authority, that at the building of the magnificent edifice, and for its building, Freemasonry was originated and organized by K I N G SOLOMON into lodges, with officers, charges, regulations and ritual,- even as it exists today. However fascinating these theories may be; however important as related to the philosophy and symbolism of the Fraternity, they do not aid in the effort to discover the origin of Operative Freemasonry. They may have had, even now may have, such quality as " unconsciously" make them of "popular belief;" nevertheless, they are "narratives, based on traditions, with some intermixture of fact." But they are not "traditions," and have little, if any, historical value. Seeking for more substantial evidence let us examine the traditions where, if anywhere, there may be found the proof of "customs, practices," which, transmitted from "generation to generation, have the force of actual fact." In these traditions we should find the When and Where of Operative Masonry. History and tradition unite to prove that Speculative Freemasonry is an evolu1:ion from organized companies of builders, generally designated as Guilds. Such were the lodges out of which emerged the first Grand Lodge of England. Again, Architecture is a fundamental principle of the Speculative form, and its symbolism and philosophy are drawn from such tools as builders use. A theory which
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appears to be based on a trustworthy tradition and to be supported by authentic history, is one advanced by the German wiiters, KLAUSE and HELDMANN. They discover the germ of Operative Freemasonry in an organization of workmen founded in the earliest days of Rome, and known as the College of Workmen, or Artificers. Dr. ALBERT G . MACKEY, a profound Masonic scholar and careful investigator, adopts this theory and, by analogous reasoning convincing in its appeal, demonstrates that here the Operative form of Freemasonry must have had its beginning. The importance of this theory suggests a study of this Roman College of Workmen, and of the analogies which bind it to Operative Masonry. The investigation will show striking similarity of essential characteristics. The Roman Colleges date from the very early days of that onetime world power. History records that they were planned and set in operation by NUMA, the second king of Rome. The purpose was that through them the divers peoples out of which the young nation was being formed might be brought into harmony. In the new citizenship there was diversity of purposes and customs, a lack of unity in aims and thought, so necessary for right development of social, economic and religious life and stable government. NuMA conceived the idea of setting these diverse elements of population in tribes, made up of people of the various nationalities, in which a common purpose and a common national spirit might have development. With the same idea in mind he also gathered into corporate bodies the artisans of the nation, among these, the Builders, or Artificers. These corporate bodies. Guilds as they were, originally nine in number, greatly increased in number, membership, influence, continuing to flourish during the life of the Roman power and retaining solidarity even after the decline and fall of Rome. And now, as to the analogies: It was a fixed rule, and strictly adhered to in the Roman Colleges of Workmen, that a college, to be legal, must have at least three members Each college had its officers, a "Magister," or Master, two officers, each presiding over sections of the College, a
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secretary, treasurer, priest. By the laws of the Colleges these officers had duties sirnilar to those of the Master, Wardens, Secretary, Treasurer, Chaplain, of a Masonic Lodge. The membership was divided into three classes, "Elders," or chief men. Journeymen and Apprentices. The workshops were established near to the temples. The meeting place was often attached to the temple. The Pagan deity to whom the particular temple was dedicated became the patron god of the nearby College. Secret meetings were held, the principal business transacted being the initiation of candidates and their instruction in the rules, regulations, niysteries. At stated times the members made contributions of money, the sum obtained being placed in a common fund to be used for relief of members of the particular College and those of other like Colleges who might be destitute. By permission of the government the Colleges enacted laws, rules and regulations for their own government. Large powers were also granted them in respect to the control of builders. As a consequence there were "lawful" and "unlawful" Colleges, as there are "legally constituted" and "clandestine" Masonic Lodges. Candidates were elected by vote of the members. They were "initiated." The term used was "admitted or accepted," the Latin term corresponding to the English term "Free and Accepted." Symbolism was present in the rites of initiation, this being illustrated and explained by such implements as were used in the building art. Thus we have, in addition to the elements of Operation and the Guild spirit so prominent in the Operative form of Freemasonry, these many analogies of organization, laws, rules, regulation, conduct, customs, work, symbolism, which strongly support the theory of identity of the Roman Colleges of Workmen with Operative Freemasonry. The Roman Empire became the dominant world power. Rome was, in fact, the world. With a rapidly increasing population there came necessity for expansion. By peaceful agreement, or by conquest, new territory was added, A new province having been acquired, a Legion went out
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from the City of Rome to establish orderly government, to subdue the peoples resisting the rule of Rome. With every Legion there went a College of Workmen, made up of architects, masters, laborers. These designed and constructed fortifications, erected temples, taught the new citizenry the art of building both public and private buildings. The newly acquired province having been Romanized, the Legion departed, but the builders remained, so that there came to be in all the new and vast territory added to Imperial Rome these Colleges of Workmen. The presence of these Colleges in all of Europe can be plainly traced by the ruins of fortresses, bridges, theaters, temples,- shrines, uncovered in France, Germany and other parts of the continent. When the Roman Legions invaded and subdued the British Isles there went with these Legions the Colleges of Artificers. I t is a matter of interest that one of the Legions founded a colony in the northern part of ^England that grew to be the City of York, since famous in Masonic history, tradition and legend. There, as throughout all of Britain, are found the remains of architecture, silent witnesses to the presence and labor of these ancient fraternities. With the descent of savage tribes from the north of Europe upon Italy, and the inrush of the flood of barbarians upon the City of Rome, the armies of the Empire were concentrated for the defense of the homeland. This left Britain exposed to attacks by the Picts and Saxons. The frightened and helpless people fled into the mountains of Wales, and to Ireland. The architects and artisans remaining in the country fled with the people. Thus they lost connection with the original institution and were afterwards known as societies of builders, retaining, however, all the characteristics of the mother guild. Afterwards, and in company with Christian monks and priests, these societies found their way to Scotland, where they assisted in converting the inhabitants to Christianity, built churches and monasteries, and instructed the people in the art of building.
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From this time forward, and continuing until the change of Freemasonry to the Speculative form, these corporate bodies of architects and artisans became more and more closely related to all the building enterprises of the Christian Church. They forsook the security of their mountain fastnesses to follow priests and monks into new fields of endeavor. They crossed over to England, and when the people had turned from Pagan worship to the new faith, these skilled workmen built churches, monasteries, cathedrals, arid thus impelled to better architecture of every kind. From England they traveled into every part of Europe, sometimes and in some countries under different names, but always erecting buildings according to certain specific and uniform designs. They maintained the co-operative spirit and the outward and inward characteristics which had come down to them. One writer says, concerning them: "These corporations of builders, exercising their art in all countries, did thus everywhere prove by the identity of their designs, that they were controlled by universally accepted principles, and showing in every other way the characteristics of a corporation or guild." Thus, it would appear, the chain of tradition and history binding them to the College of Artificers of Rome had not been broken. It was but natural that these separate societies, while possessing power and being prominent in their individual capacities, should desire more power and larger influence. It was equally natural that they should be able to obtain these by a union of some sort, a centralization of interests and authority, secured by a common Constitution for the government of the craft as a solidarity. That such was the idea and that it was crystalized is evidenced by the historical fact of an Assembly of Masons held at the City of York, England, the date of which is quite definitely fixed in the year 926. This event was long a subject of speculation and profound discussion. Its authenticity was dput)ted. It had a place in the Legend of the Craft, and so partook of the nature of t h a t instrument. Masonic historians are now generally agreed t h a t this Assembly has been authenti-
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cated, that it was held under the direction of ATHELSTAN, second king of England, or by his permission and patronage. To the Assembly came Masons from the realm and from other countries, bringing with them "writings and understandings of the charges and manners that were made before in their lands, wheresoever they were made Masons." These being tried and compared, proved to be of common purpose and intent, and from these they wrote a Constitution for the government of English lodges and organized the first Grand Lodge of Operative Masons. Of this Assembly one writer says: " I see no reason to reject so old a tradition that under ATHELSTAN the Operative Masons obtained his patronage and met in General Assembly." Doctor MACKEY confirms this view. He says: "About the year 926, a General Assembly of Masons was held at York, under the patronage of EDWIN, brother of ATHELSTAN, at which Assembly a code of laws was adopted which became the basis on which all subsequent Masonic Constitutions were framed. Even if strictly historical evidence were lacking this event would stand because of its character as a tradition. For, referring to the definition, "either embodied in literature, or continuing unwritten, a tradition has the force of actual fact, of unwritten law." Thus is Operative Freemasonry traced from the Roman Colleges of Workmen to the organization of the Grand Lodge of England at York. It is admitted that NUMA may have adopted the idea of another, rather than originated the idea himself, in the formation of the Colleges to" which reference has been made. However, that he did found these associations on a plan of another is.a pure speculation, and appears to have no basis of probability. History, tradition and analogy unite to prove that Operative Masonry was born of the Roman Colleges of Artificers. Another analogy between the Roman Colleges of Workmen and the Operative Freemasons should not be overlooked. These Colleges, while made up largely of artisans, admitted to membership men of prominence and power, literary personages, and those of the professions and trades. These were highly esteemed because of the favorable in-
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fluence they were able to secure from governments and rulers in things pertaining to the rights and privileges of the associations. As the Colleges followed in the path of colonization some members of- this class were with the venture and new members were selected from the leading spirits of the new communities. This policy was adopted by the Operative Freemasons in Europe. Statesmen and scholars, dignitaries of the church, philosophers, artists, physicians, lawyers, princes, potentates and kings were given entrance to the guilds to become patrons and protectors. And many priests arid monks became skilled workmen in the building art. It was inevitable that the presence in these Guilds of classes having different aims and ideals, of actual builders and theoretical ones, should lead to unfriendly rivalry and strife by each class for the right to be the dominant factor. There came bitter contention and struggle for preeminence, resulting in separation. The spirit of the Operative Masons appears to have been broken, and they gradually lost the pride in their art which had long been their distinguishing mark. There followed a decline both of the number and quality of their buildings. There were many evidences of decay. It was under these conditions that the theoretic members resolved to preserve to the world the philosophy formulated from architecture. Operative Freemasonry passed out of existence as an institution, to be succeeded by the Speculative form. In the search for the origin of the base upon which rests modern Freemasonry there has been a departure from some generally accepted views. The effort has been to separate authentic history and reliable tradition from legend and myth. The result should justify the effort. If, by these recitals, there has been made substantial proof of true origin, then there has been removed much of the matter which has often prompted students and investigators to declare the whole of Freemasonry to be romance. If facts have been shown, rather than fancies, there is answer to much unmerited criticism and ridicule. It is not easy to eradicate from minds these impressions and beliefs of long standing. Yet these must be removed if
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the Fraternity is to have its proper place among the most important and useful of world institutions. Much of history, ancient and modern, is shot through with romance and colored by legend. Because of this, world history is constantly being re-written with the purpose of reducing it to absolutely truthful narrative. And Masonic history has been written and re-written. With infiiiite pains conscientious and capable scholars have given themselves to the task of sifting from legend and myth that which is true narrative; and this with a recognition of the value of the legend as related to the philosophy and symbolism of the Fraternity. At earlier times the old manuscripts in possession of the students and writers were not examined with much discrimination. Made up, as they were, of a mingling of facts and fables these manuscripts were accepted in entirety, as absolute truth. For example: The Legend of the Craft makes reference to KING SOLOMON and a temple built by him at Jerusalem. Undoubtedly KING SOLOMON is a historical character, and the building of, the temple is a historical fact. Now, upon these facts Masonic scholars of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, taking the old manuscripts literally, affirmed that KING SOLOMON originated Operative Masonry by organizing the workmen on the temple into a lodge, and that he was the first Grand Master. They further affirm that HiRAM, of Tyre, and "the other HIRAM," were wardens, that the craft was arranged in three degrees, very similar to the arrangement as it is today. Equally unreliable, historically considered, are the claims set forth that architecture began with the first man; that NOAH and his sons and all notables of pre-historic times were Masons. These erroneous beliefs, long prevalent, have tended to discredit Freemasonry as having any historic base, and have encouraged the belief that it is all legend and myth. But, since there is historical proof of true origin, it cannot be destroyed because with the narrative there is a mixture of legend. To do that would be to discredit and destroy all history. In such a situation it is well to follow
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the method of a writer of distinction who, speaking of inscriptions uncovered in Mesopotamia, and the legends thus disclosed relating to the ancient Babylonian Empire, says: "With regard to the. supernatural element introduced into the story, it is similar in nature to many such additions to historical narratives, especially in the East; but I would not reject those events which may have happened, because, in order to illustrate a current belief or add to the romance of the story, the writer has introduced the supernatural." Modern Masonic writers wholly disregard the story of K I N G SOLOMON and the temple as of historical value, but they do not cast it aside as having no value; rather, they assign it to its proper place, as they assign all the other legends.- These relate to the interior life and work of the Fraternity, and in that connection are of inestimable value. The whole fabric of ritualism would be shorn of worth if divested of this legendary matter. •And now, if Freemasonry has been traced to a legitimate base, and history and tradition rightly distinguished from legend and myth, there are these concluding reflections: Our brethren of another age who accorriplished the task of transforming Freemasonry from its Operative to its Speculative form are to be credited with a marvelous and an enduring achievement. They were truly great men, great scholars, great philosophers. It was their task to work out from a somewhat crude basis of speculation derived from the building art and the builders' tools a superb "System of morals, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols." To do this they drew upon all of the philosophy of their own and other times, all deep mysteries of the ancients, all religious and moral ideas and ideals of all peoples. These they arranged and crystalized for the construction and development of the most beautiful and elevating system of ritualism the world has known or ever will know. These choice spirits of the Fraternity were not so much concerned about the history of the craft. Their purpose was, that from the labors of Operative Masons, as expressed in the architecture of the world, and by the symbolic use of the builders' implements, they
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would evolve a system of moral and religious truth which should attract all men by its appeal to reason and conscience, develop in them a common interest, a common purpose and a fraternal spirit. Out of all their labor there has come to us a system in which GOD, as Grand Architect of the Universe, as well as Father, is the center, by Whom and through Whom every man is brother to every other man. CALL FROM LABOR TO REFRESHMENT. In order that the members of the Grand Lodge might have an opportunity of visiting the Kansas Masonic Home, the Grand Master then called the M.-. W.*. Grand Lodge from labor to refreshment until 7:15 p. M.
EVENING SESSION. February 25, 1925. t h e Grand Master called the M.-.W.-. Grand Lodge from refreshment to labor at 7:15 P. M. WEDNESDAY,
M.-.W.-. ELMER F . STRAIN, Grand Master, submitted an interesting report, supplemented with remarks concerning The Kansas Masonic Home, which, on motion of M.-.W.-. ELRICK C . • COLE, was approved, and ordered placed on file. EXEMPLIFICATION OF THE WORK.
In accordance with an invitation extended to Wichita Lodge No. 99, the Third Degree was exemplified under the direction of W.-. HARVEY 0. DAVIS, Lecturer. CALL FROM LABOR TO REFRESHMENT.
The Grand Master then called the M.-. W.-. Grand Lodge from labor to refreshment until 9 A. M., Thursday.
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MORNING SESSION. THURSDAY, February 26,1925. The M.". W.'. Grand Lodge was called from refreshment to labor by the M.-. W.". Grand Master at 9 A. M. REPORT OF C O M M I T T E E ON NECROLOGY.
W.-. OTTO R. SOUDERS, chairman, submitted the following report,' which, on his motion, was adopted by a rising vote, followed by an invocation by the Grand Chaplain, Rev.
F R E D E . BROOKS:
To the M:. W.-.Grand Lodge of A. F. & A.M. of Kansas: The subject of Death is one of interest to all Mankind. From the beginnings of time to the present day, Man has pondered the subject, and from this day until the end Man will continue to ponder and wonder. The finite mind is still struggling in its endeavor to understand the infinite and to solve the greatest of all mysteries. To some men death means the end; to others but the beginning of the best of existence, the door by which entrance is gained to those "mansions eternal in the heavens." Most philosophers agree that, logically, there must be some existence beyond this one; that otherwise the life of a man would be but a waste; that divine attributes are not given to Man to be destroyed or lost; t h a t the infinite in all men must continue to be during the infinity of time. The Masonic Order, in all of its teachings, endeavors to impress upon its members that there is a hereafter, for which this life is but a preparation. That he, who most fully attunes himself to Divine influences will most enjoy that hereafter. That there is to be a resurrection and t h a t there should be no doubt but " o n that glorious morning our bodies shall rise and become as incorruptible as our souls." If, therefore, we believe in that resurrection. Death must become to us as merely the door through which we enter into our eternal estate. In accordance with these beliefs our Order teaches the necessity of a right relationship with GOD; of service to our fellow men; and of the need of personal righteousness. That he who gives the greatest service to his fellows is to be the chief among them. That the leader' must be the most humble. True Masons are constant and consistent workers. During the past year many of these servants who were great leaders in our Order have been permitted to solve the mystery they
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have pondered over. To them has been granted that insight into Eternity that we, who remain, are still considering. With fond r e membrance of their deeds while here with us, and with the hope t h a t their expectations have been happily fulfilled, we pause today for a few minutes to think of them and to inquire of ourselves if we are fit to open the door of Death. To see if we are laboring aright and if we are traveling that "Narrow Way to the Straight Gate" and if we be of the few that find it. While the "last great enemy" has spared the official family of our Grand Master, it has touched him deeply in his private family by removing his beloved father. If the old saying is right about training up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart therefrom, what a careful father this must have been. How faithful he must have been to his duties as a parent. While unknown to us personally, we have had exhibited to us the results of his teaching and the example of his life in the character and activities of his son. With deepest reverence we paraphrase the statement of CHRIST and say, we who have seen the son have seen the father. Our sympathies are extended to all who are bereaved of loved ones; but in a special manner, in a more definite way, with the sense of regard and friendship we extendi to our Grand Master at this time our deepest sympathy and kindest regard. During the year 1924, 844 of our brethren in Kansas have passed'. to their reward. They were from all parts of the State and from every condition of life. Most of the lodges of this jurisdiction have added to> the roll. Many of them were active workers and leaders in their lodges and communities. We trust that they have heard the welcome plaudit "well done, good and faithful servant" and that they have entered the joy of their Lord. From the roll of her Past Grand Masters Kansas has lost M.'. W.'. WATSON MILLER LAMB and
M.-.W.-. EDWARD W . WELLINGTON.
M.-. W.". Brother LAMB was Grand Master in 1888. He died at his home in Hoquiam, Washington, August 13, 1924, at the age of seventy-nine.. During his entire Masonic career of more than fifty years he was actively engaged in the work of the Fraternity and is described by our Grand Secretary as "A Christian Gentleman." No higher tribute can be paid a man. He joined our Order at Augusta, Kansas, on December 3, 1872, receiving the Master Mason's Degree on January 6, 1874, dimitted the same night to become a charter member of Douglass Lodge and served as its Secretary in 1874. He dimitted again to become a charter member of Sterling Lodge in 1876 and served as its Master for four years and as Secretary three years. In the Grand Lodge he served as Assistant Lecturer one year and as Custodian two years before he was elected Grand Junior Warden, and as a member of the Committee on Reports of Grand Officers two years. He also served on committees in the Grand Chapter for four years. He was a member of Sterling Chapter and Reno Commandery until he dimitted and moved to Washington.
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M.-. W.'. Brother WELLINGTON served the several Masonic Bodies of Kansas for many years. He was made a Master Mason in Ellsworth Lodge No. 146 in 1881, joined Ellsworth Chapter in 1882 and in the same year joined Hiram Council at Minneapolis. In 1887 he was knighted in Askelon Commandery at Salina. He also belonged to Wichita Consistory No. 2, and the Red Cross of Constantine at Topeka. He served the subordinate bodies faithfully and was Master of his Lodge in 1890; High Priest of his Chapter in 1886; Master of his Council in 1898 and Commander of his Commandery in 1892. In the Grand Bodies he was unusually active and his merit was repeatedly recognized. He served on committees in the Grand Council for eight years and as Grand Master in 1899. In the Grand Chapter he served on committees for eleven years and as Grand High Priest in 1902. In the Grand Commandery he served for seven years on committees and was Grand Commander in 1901. In 1907 he was elected Grand Master of this Grand Lodge after several years of active service. Not only was he favorably known in Kansas but his activities became Nation wide and in 1900 he was elected as General Grand Marshal of the General Grand Council R. & S. M. of the United States and proceeded in regular succession to become General Grand Master of that body from 1915 to 1918. He also served as General Grand Warder of the Grand Encampment Knights Templar of the United States of America from 1904 to 1907. He was a graduate of Harvard University. He was one of the best known men attending the sessions of the Grand Bodies of Kansas and was universally popular with old and new members for his geniality and his fund of stories. As long as he was able he attended all of the sessions of the Grand Bodies and while his strength grew feebler each year, his devotion to the Order continued unabated. He died at his home in Ellsworth on Wednesday, February 18, 1925. Masonry can well be proud of the men who have died in its service. From other Grand Jurisdictions come the reports of the death of 21 Past Grand Masters, 1 Past Grand Senior Warden, 1 Grand Junior Warden, 1 Grand Treasurer and 1 Grand Secretary. Among them we find that stalwart champion of Masonry from Missouri, our well known and beloved Brother WILLIAM F . K U H N , who died as he was
preparing to leave for the triennial session of the General Grand Chapter at Portland, Maine, where he was to preside as General Grand High Priest. As we recall the labors of these departed Brethren we feel an added call to service. We here and now again renew our vows to deeper consecration for the tasks before us. Each of us should put into practice •our thoughts, our knowledge and our duty. We owe a debt to the dead t h a t can only be discharged by service to the living. Love is the greatest thing on earth or in Heaven. But as "Faith without works is d e a d " so also is Love without kindness to our fellow men an impossibility.
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As EDGAR A. GUEST puts i t : •
"One never knows How far a word of kindness goes; One never sees How far a smile of friendship fiees. Down through the years The deed forgotten reappears. One kindly word The souls of many here has stirred. Man goes his way And tells with every passing day, Until life's end: ' Once unto me he played the friend.' We cannot say What lips are praising us today. We cannot tell Whose prayers ask GOD to guard us well, But kindness lives Beyond the memory of him who gives." Brotherhood involves so much, such an assurance of joint heirs of GOD; such an insistence on disinterested work for our Brethren; such a recognition of the oneness of the human race; that we should hesitate to assume the relationship unless our intentions are true. May we not earnestly say with CLARENCE E . FLYNN:
" I must travel the miles 'till the journey is done. Whatsoever the turn of the way; I shall bring up at last with the set of the sun. And shall rest at the close of the day. Let me deal'as I journey with foeman and friend In a way that no man can assail. And find nothing but peace at the roadway's last bend, When I conie to the end of the trail. We are brothers who travel a great,' common road, And the journey is easy for none. We must succor the weary, and lift on the load Of the pilgrim whose courage is done. Let me deal with them each on my way to the West With a mercy that never shall fail. And lie down to my dreams with a conscience at rest When I come to the end of the trail." Fraternally submitted, OTTO R . SOUDERS,
Committee.
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February,
CORRESPONDENCE.
R.-. W.-. ALBERT K . WILSON, chairman, stated that the Report on Correspondence had been prepared, printed^and would appear in the Annual Proceedings. SPECIAL R E P O R T OF C O M M I T T E E ON CORRESPONDENCE.
Your Committee, to whom was referred the subject|of "Foreign Relations" as presented by the M/.W.'. Grand Master, beg leave to submit the following: To.the M.:W.:Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: We most heartily commeftd the action of the Grand Master in taking the advance step to bring about a restoration of cordial relations between our jurisdiction and that of New Hampshire, and express the hope that the proffered hand of brotherly love and affaction will be accepted by our New Hampshire brethren.
REPORT OF C O M M I T T E E ON CHARTERED LODGES AND LODGES U. D.
W.". GEORGE F . BEEZLEY, chairman, presented the following report, which, on his motion, was adopted: To the M:. W.:Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: Your committee have carefully reviewed the annual reports from all the lodges in this jurisdiction, and noted the errors riiade by the Secretaries under the various heads to which we call attention in this report, and have the following to submit: In the first place we have no doubt some Secretaries; as well as some of the members of this Grand Lodge, are of the opinion that the Grand Secretary is too exacting arid technical regarding errors found in the annual reports in insisting that they be corrected before the reports are finally placed on file in the archives of the Grand Lodge. The high standing of the historical records of the Grand Lodge, which has required almost one-third of a century to build up, can only be maintained through correct annual reports from the lodges, and in order to have these reports in that form it necessarily follows that all imperfect ones must be returned to the Secretaries for correction. In doing this the Grand Secretary is not exacting or technical, but is only performing the duties which devolve upon him as the custodian of the records of this Grand Lodge, and he should therefore receive the
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hearty co-operation and assistance not only of the Secretaries, but of the Masters, and other members of this Grand Lodge. In order to assist our Secretaries in submitting correct annual reports your committee have the following suggestions to offer: In the first place it is presumed that the Book of Annual Returns is posted up at each and every Communication of the lodge; unless this is done it is of no practical value whatever to the Secretary of a lodge. If this is done the preparation of a correct annual report is a simple matter as it means nothing more or less than making a copy of the Book of Annual Returns for the particular year, except of course the omission from the roll of members of the names of all whose membership has terminated during the year, and adding to this roll of members the names of all who have been raised, admitted or restored. At the close of each year in transferring the roll of members from the previous year the Secretary should make a check mark immediately in front of the names of all whose membership has terminated during the year so that such names will not be entered on the current year's roll. On the other hand he should place some kind of a mark between names in the proper alphabetical order for the purpose of inserting the names of all who have become members during the year. By this system of check marks it will in the first instance eliminate the possibility of carrying on the roll of members the name of one who has ceased to be a member, and in the second instance will keep the alphabetical order of your roll of members and at the same time will exclude the possibility of omitting the names of any who have become members during the year. From the report of the Grand Secretary we find that while all reports were received permitting a compilation of complete statistics, yet it was necessary in a few cases to write letters, send telegrams and hold telephone communications with a number of Secretaries in order to bring about this result. It would seem to your committee that with the proper co-operation of our District Deputy Grand Masters this element of confusion and delay could be eliminated. We will always have more or less of the careless and indifferent Secretaries; however, through proper attention on the part of the District Deputy Grand Masters they can be compelled to send in their reports within the time provided by law. Three lodges are deserving of special attention as it required several days to secure their reports and this was only accomplished by appealing for help through the District Deputy Grand Masters by telegraph and telephone. Kincaid Lodge No- 338 and Buffalo Lodge No. 379 were so indifferent that your committee feel justified in recommending that the advisability of arresting the charters of these lodges be referred to the incoming Grand Master. As evidence of the indifference shown by Kincaid Lodge the Secretary remarked to the District Deputy Grand Master that they did not intend to go to Grand Lodge. We presume this remark was made to condone their offense in failing to obey the laws of the Grand Lodge.
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Scammon Lodge No. 351 is, if anything, deserving of more attention at the hands of the incoming Grand Master than the other two as some matters enter into the affairs connected with securing the annual report from thislodge which should be taken into account in considering the arrest of the charter of this lodge. While it is true that some careless Secretaries pay no attention to the law concerning the time for forwarding their annual report, yet there is another class of Secretaries who are really more at fault than the one who fails to forward his report on. or before'January 10th and that is the one who sends in an incorrect report at the eleventh hour and when it is returned for correction absolutely ignores the appeal of the Grand Secretary to make the necessary changes and return the report immediately, but holds it until the patience of the Grand Secretary is entirely exhausted and he is compelled to appeal to higher authority to get a return of the report. As recommended by this comrnittee heretofore we believe that wherever possible all reports should be typewritten; however, it is noted that where some were made in this manner this year a very poor or faded out ribbon was used and it was almost' impossible to read the names and dates. I t is therefore hoped that hereafter where reports are made on the typewriter the Secretary will see to it that a good ribbon is used so the report when received by the Grand Secretary can be readily checked. It is surprising to your committee to note that ninety-three reports had to be returned for correction, and an even greater number of remittances were returned on account of mistakes made in computing the amount of Grand Lodge dues and fees. Several lodges, as indicated in the report of the Grand Secretary, failed to transmit their reports within the time provided by law, and likewise several failed to pay their Grand Lodge dues on or before January 20th, all of which, under the Statutes, are deprived of representation at this Grand Lodge. Your committee feel justified in submitting a list of lodges placed under the several heads or classification of errors in the hope that the Secretaries of such lodges will avoid making these mistakes when submitting the annual report at the close of the present year, and also in suggesting that the District Deputy Grand Masters should carefully check over this portion of the report with a view of calling the attention of the Secretaries of any lodges in their district to these mistakes and assisting them wherever possible to avoid like ones in the future. The reports from the folio-wing lodges were prepared regardless of alphabetical order, except the general alphabetical arrangement, so that when compared -with the report of one year ago it was difficult to make a correct- checking without unnecessary labor and a great waste of time, and indicate gross carelessness and indifference on the part of the Secretary, and the records of these lodges should receive attention at the hands of the District Deputy Grand Masters:
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Home No. 89, Centralia; Farmers No. 166, Randolph; Ashland No. 277; Cosmos No. 278, Kiowa; Scammon No. 351; St. Francis No. 404; ArmaNo.408. Differences in names or initials: Nos. 3, 5, 6, 7, 21, 29, 30, 31, 35, 37, 38, 41, 43, 47, 51, 61, 64, 66, 67, 68, 71, 74, 76, 79, 87, 88, 89, 94, 96, 99, 107, 109, 112, 114, 117, 118, 122, 130, 139, 142, 144, 145, 147, 148, 150, 151, 152, 153, 154, 159, 161, 162, 164, 166, 167, 168, 174, 186, 187, 192, 193, 199, 200, 201, 208, 209, 211, 213, 218, 225, 227, 232, 233, 240, 241, 243, 250, 252, 258, 268, 270, 271, 274, 275, 278, 280, 281, 283, 284, 296, 300, 307, 310, 311, 316, 322, 324, 325, 338, 337, 339, 340, 344, 351, 353, 359, 361, 362, 366, 369, 371, 374, 379, 380, 385, 390, 391, 400, 402, 404, 407, 408, 409, 418, 419, 425, 430, 432, 433, 437. Initials or abbreviations used: Nos. 41, 71, 77, 79, 96, 141, 148, 151, 165, 168, 212, 218, 221, 234, 236, 260, 267, 315, 337, 361, 362, 368, 374, 376, 404, 432. Names not in alphabetical order: Nos. 168,. 176, 240, 252, 315, 344, 373, 374. " Incomplete list of officers: Nos. 81, 194, 205, 264, 280, 325, 338. Filing space omitted or incomplete: Nos. 30, 139, 221, 322. Seal used: Nos. 130, 218, 293, 394. The report from Haven Lodge No. 157 of South Haven was mutilated. The roll of members of Frankfort Lodge No. 67 was not in the same order as one year ago, neither was it in alphabetical order, and which caused a great loss of time in checking the report in the office of the Grand Secretary. LOST CHARTERS.
The attention of this committee has been directed to that portion of the Grand Master's address relative to the lost charter of Rosedale Lodge No. 333, and the destruction by fire of the charter of Freeport Lodge No. 389, and the request that the remaining lodges send their charters to the Grand Secretary for safe deposit. Your Committee is in hearty accord with this request and as year by year these mute evidences of the importance and necessity of such action present themselves before this Grand Lodge your Committee joins in urging serious consideration and immediate action in that respect by those lodges which have not yet sent their charters to the Grand Secretary and recommends that this part of the Grand Master's address be approved that the Grand Lodge may again indicate its support of this worthy plan. Reference to this Committee has also been made of that part of the Grand Secretary's report under the head of Restoration of Charters. It appears therefrom that twenty-six lodges sent in their charters during the year. Your Committee commends the foresight of these lodges for this action and recommends to those lodges not yet having taken such action their example as worthy of imitation.
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PARADISE LODGE NO. 2 9 0 .
The pamphlet mentioned in the paragraph of the Grand Secretary's report under the above head has been submitted to this Committee. It has been eagerly examined and enthusiastically approved by many of the brethren present. Theirs, in this respect, is a happy custom. We hazard the belief that each of the brothers receiving one of these pamphlets, so complete in detail, is made to feel a closer interest in his lodge. We commend to the other lodges in this Grand Jurisdiction their example as worthy of consideration. BOOKS OF ANNUAL RETURNS.
That part of the Grand Secretary's report under the head of Books of Annual Returns has also been referred to this Committee. Casual reading and less casual consideration thereof convinces the least observant that so many errors result only from a flagrant disregard for observance of the sirtiple rules in the keeping of this important book. Personal pride in one's work, which every Mason should possess to a high degree, and which every Secretary rnust possess to a high degree, should prompt a resolution that in future these books should be very materially improved by the Secretary of each of the lodges committing such errors. Your Committee feels that our Grand Secretary should be commended for the splendid manner in which these matters have been catalogued and in which the attention of those lodges called to the defects in their work. ANNUAL ELECTION.
The Grand Lodge in 1924 approved the recommendation of the Committee on Chartered Lodges and Lodges U. D. that such lodges as held their elections at an illegal time should be required to' ask the Grand Master for a Special Dispensation to hold a legal election and installation, and requiring that the usual fee therefor be required and that the entire membership be notified of such election. Despite such Grand Lodge action and the warning therein contained eight lodges during the last year held their election at a time not authorized by the Constitution. One lodge that was guilty of this infringment of fundamental law in 1923 was a violator in 1924; while one held the election at a Special Communication. We recommend that the precedent established by the Grand Lodge last year on this head be adopted so as to apply to the lodges which held their elections at an illegal time in 1924. Your Committee also recommends that the Grand Secretary determine at what time the annual election was held by the lodges whose reports fail to show when their election was held and if upon such examination it is shown that any of such lodges has violated the Constitution, that the rule set out in the next preceeding paragraph apply to such offending lodges, if any.
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DOMESTIC RELATIONS.
A matter concerning domestic relations with Patmos Lodge No. 97, El Dorado, has been submitted to this Committee. Your Committee has given a full hearing to the complainant and has heard the matters submitted by the accused. After full consideration your Committee feels that this matter does not require the attention or action of the Grand Lodge, and so recommends. NEW LODGES.
During the year eight Dispensations have been granted for the formation of new lodges and the transcripts of their proceedings have been presented to this Committee. In all cases the transcripts are carefully typewritten and neatly prepared and show evidence of painstaking effort in their manual construction. The record of the proceedings of the different Communications however, is not up to the high standard as shown by the make up of the transcripts. When the Letters of Dispensation are forwarded from the Grand Lodge a form of sample minutes for the information of the Secretary of the lodges working under dispensation are supplied. A pamphlet containing information relative to conducting the affairs of the lodge working under Dispensation and other instructions is also furnished. In this pamplet the brethren are advised that at their last Communication under Letters of Dispensation it is well to hold an informal election and appoint other officers to be installed in case a Charter is granted and to decide at this Communication the time for holding the Stated Communications. In spite of such advice the transcripts fail to show that any of these lodges working under Dispensation decided on the time for holding their Stated Communications in the event that this Grand Lodge should grant their petition. In one instance no record was shown of the election of officers. As a whole the transcripts do show remarkable zeal and industry on the part of the petitioning brethren. BENDENA LODGE.
On March 29, 1924, a Dispensation was granted to ten brethren residing at Bendena in Doniphan County, Kansas. Work was commenced on April 9th and ceased on December 30th. Fourteen were initiated; thirteen were passed and thirteen were raised. The transcript does not show an election of officers for the ensuing year, although the Petition for Warrant of Constitution does name three brethren for the principal offices. A lack of care relating to the recording of the expenditure of their funds appears and it would be well that the brethren be admonished that this is a matter of utmost importance. No where in the minutes does it appear that any sum was agreed upon as the amount of fees for the work. During the year $715.00 was received and $617.13 expended leaving a balance of $97.87, against which appears a debt of $50.00. Your Committee recommends that a Charter be granted and that the lodge be known as Bendena Lodge.
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JOHNSON LODGE.
On May 1, 1924, a Dispensation was granted to eleven brethren to form and open a lodge at Johnson, Stanton County, Kansas. Work was commenced on May 7th and the last Communication was had on December 27th. Three were initiated, passed and raised and three names were added to the Letters of Dispensation by the Grand Master and all seventeen brethren have signed the petition for the Charter. The transcript fails to show authority for the addition of one of the names to the Letters of Dispensation, but satisfactory proof has been made to this Committee that this was in conformity with the Masonic Law. The transcript is in excellent condition and evinces a degree of care and skill on the part of the brethren well to be proud of. This Committee recommends that a Charter be granted and that the lodge be known as Johnson Lodge. ALLEN LODGE.
On February 18, 1891, Allen Lodge No.' 335 was chartered. On May 20, 1922, by direction of the Grand Master their Charter was arrested and the Grand Lodge in 1923 followed the recommendation of the Grand Master that the Charter be not restored. On May 29, 1923, a Dispensation was granted for a lodge at Allen, many of the petitioners being formerly members of Allen Lodge No. 335, but the Grand Lodge of 1924 refused to grant the petition of the brethren. On May 15, 1924, the Grand Master granted a Dispensation to forty-one brethren to form and open a lodge at Allen. Work was begun on May 17, 1924, and the last Communication was held December 18, 1924. Seventeen Communications were held. Five were initiated and passed and four were raised and forty-five have signed the petition for a Charter. The transcript refers to fourteen of the Communications as being regular instead of Stated Communications as denominated in the Statutes and advised in the pamphlet furnished with the Letters of Dispensation. Several minor errors appear in the transcript, none of which your Committee regards as serious. On November 13, 1924, the Grand Master visited the lodge. The only reference in the minutes to an event of such importance was the name of the Grand Master among the list of visitors. Your Committee feels that this is an event of such consequence as would merit special mention in the minutes of that Communication. Aside from the matters above referred to the transcript is in fairly good shape. The cause of the sorrow and trouble which resulted in the arresting of the Charter of Allen Lodge No. 335 has been judicially determined before a Masonic tribunal. The failure of a showing of such adjudication was one of the strong arguments for the rejection of their petition by the Grand Lodge in 1924. Your Committee has given this matter careful consideration and feel that the brethren have been sufficiently impressed with the importance of a strict observance of Masonic Law. The population of the jurisdiction of a lodge at Allen is such as to sustain a Lodge. The Lodge owns its building. The character of the citizen-
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ship is such as would insure a high class of petitioners In the years to come. The petitioners appear to be sincerely zealous of up-holding the high character of Masonry, in the event a Charter is granted, and determined to work together in the spirit of harmony in the years to come. Your Committee recomrnends that a Charter be granted and that the lodge be known as Allen Lodge. The Grand Lodge holds an unexpended balance of $220.52 coming from Allen Lodge as a result of the action of the Grand Lodge last year and your Committee recommends that this sum be returned to Allen Lodge with the Charter. REXFORD LODGE.
One June 9, 1924, a Dispensation was issued for a lodge at Rexford, Thomas County. Work began July 2nd and ceased December 29th, during whichitime twenty-five Communications were had. Ten were initiated and nine were passed and raised. Five were added to the Letters cf Dispensation by the Grand Master, all of which being added to the twelve original petitioners made a total of twenty-six petitioning for the Charter. The Secretary seems to have referred to all Communications'without designating them as Stated Communications as is the case with such Lodges. The petition for the Warrant contains five names without showing their Lodge membership. Their transcript evinces a splendid opportunity for Masonic Labor and your Committee recommends that a Charter be granted and that the Lodge be known as Rexford Lodge. KANORADO LODGE.
Kanorado Lodge commenced work July 14, 1924, under Letters of Dispensation dated June 28, 1924, and have held fourteen Communications. To the original eight brethren named in the Letters of Dispensation one has been added by the Grand Master and during the period of their work nine have been raised, which gives this lodge the distinction of having doubled their membership in slightly more than six month's time. Their transcript appears to be in good condition. Situated as it is on the border line between our State and our neighbor to the West, their territory is somewhat limited, but is sufficient to merit the institution of a Lodge. Your Committee recommends that a Charter be granted and that the Lodge be known as Kanorado Lodge. STANLEY LODGE.
On August 19, 1924, a Dispensation was granted twenty-eight brethren for a lodge at Stanley, Johnson County. Twenty-four Communications were held between the dates of August 26th and December 30th, inclusive, being the dates of the commencement and cessation of work. During that time fifteen were initiated, thirteen passed and twelve raised, making a total membership of forty at the end of the year. No where in the transcript does it appear that any sum was agreed
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upon as the fees to be charged. The transcript show? that following the initiation of a brother at one Communication that a Lodge of Master Masons was called from Labor to Refreshment and Labor resumed on the Third Degree. This clearly shows to be a typographical error, and in view of the otherwise completely correct transcript your Comrnittee is inclined to forgive this mistake. Your Committee recommends that a Charter be granted and that the Lodge be known as Stanley Lodge. HUTCHINSON LODGE.
Hutchinson Lodge was granted Dispensation September 17, 1924, arid twelve names appear in the Dispensation. Subsequently the names of sixty-one other brethren were duly added. Eleven Communications were held and fifteen were initiated, eleven passed and seven raised, making their membership on Decemb^ 31st, total eighty. The petitioners were recommended by Reno Lodge No. 140, and there appears to be sufficient room in this MetropoHs of Western Kansas for two Lodges. The friendliest of relations appear to exist between this lodge and Reno Lodge and your Committee recommends that a Charter be granted and the lodge be known as Hutchinson Lodge. SATANTA LODGE.
Satanta Lodge was organized under Dispensation to . eleven brethren October 17, 1924, to form a lodge at Satanta, Haskell County. One name has been added to the Letters of Dispensation and at the twelve Communications of the lodge seven had been initiated and three passed. The form of minutes has not been followed in strict accordance with the recommendations of the Grand Secretary, but the transcript seems to be in a very complete condition. The brethren appear to be loyal to the Lodge. A remarkable display of this loyalty, while not especially authorized, is exhibited in the transcript where reference is made to the assessment of $10.00 on each member for expenses. Also, it appears that this money was paid without complaint. Barring a few irregularities the transcript is in good condition and this Committee recommends the granting of a Charter and that the Lodge be known as Satanta Lodge. PETITION FOR A LODGE AT BUSHONG.
Your Committee have had presented to them a petition for a Charter for a new lodge at the town of Bushong, in Lyon County, and submit the following report: So far as your Committee can ascertain this is an unusual procedure as it would appear from the records of the Grand Lodge that no petition of this kind, under similar conditions, has ever been submitted for consideration at the Grand Lodge. There have been petitions of this kind presented where no Letters of Dispensation have ever been issued, but in all such cases there already was, in the town where such pro-
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posed Lodge was to be located, an established Chartered Lodge and the grounds for a petition for a Charter direct were based on local conditions which were of such a nature that the establishment of a second Lodge was absolutely necessary. In this case, however, we find that Bushong is a small town situated only fiye miles west of the town of Allen, and the establishment of a lodge in that place would reduce the jurisdiction of the lodge at Allen to a distance of only two and one-half miles. It would also materially cut down the jurisdiction of the lodges at Alta Vista, Council Grove, , Emporia and Americus. The jurisdiction of these lodges is now quite limited and the establishment of a lodge at Bushong will have a detrimental effect on the above lodges. Your Committee are of the opinion that with the number of lodges now in our jurisdiction great care should be exercised before new ones are established and that all petitions should be for Letters of Dispensation in order that the Grand Master may have ample time to make a thorough investigation before issuing Letters of Dispensation. It is-the opinion of your Committee that the issuance of Charters direct by Grand Lodge, where no Letters of Dispensation have been granted, should not be practiced. Your Committee does not feel that such an emergency exists in this case as would require a departure from the long established custom relative to application for a Dispensation before petitioning the Grand Lodge. Your Committee, therefore, recommends that their petition be not granted, and the accompanying fee be returned to the petitioners. Fraternally submitted, GEORGE F . BEEZLEY, WILLIAM NELSON, ,
Committee. DONATION ENDOWMENT FUND KANSAS MASONIC HOME.
On motion of R.-.W/. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH, the sum of $10,000.00 was donated to the Endowment Fund of the Kansas Masonic Home. REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON JURISPRUDENCE.
M.-. W.-. ELRICK C . COLE, chairman, submitted the following report, which, on motion, was adopted section by section, and then adopted as a whole: To the M.:W.:Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: Your Committee on Jurisprudence, to which has been referred various questions, beg leave to submit the following report:
16Z
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
We have considered that portion of the report of the Grand Master relating to "Standards" and would recommend that the same be referred to the incoming Grand Master for his action. TRANSFER OF MEMBERSHIP.
Your Committee recommends the adoption of By-Law No. 170 as shown in the report of the Grand Master for 1925. RULING NO. 1 0 6 .
In accordance with the recommendation of the Grand Master we recommend the repeal of Decision No. 106, and the adoption in its place of the following By-Law: 174. Dues and Dimils.—Any Lodge granting a dimit shall collect from the Brother obtaining the same only a proportionate amount of dues for the current year on a monthly basis. GRAND LODGE DUES.
Your Committee has given this subject careful consideration and is of the opinion that no change should be made in the procedure at this time. SOCIAL AFFAIRS.
This subject has been given a vast amount of attention from this and many other committees and we are of the opinion that no change should be made in either By-Laws or Approved Decisions at this time. CONFERRING DEGREES IN LESS THAN THE REQUIRED TIME.
We have had under consideration the question of conferring degrees in less than the required time and are of the opinion that the subject can be completely dealt with by the Grand Master and have therefore concluded to refer the same to the incoming Grand Master. MEMBERS OF DEFUNCT LODGES.
The Grand Secretary's report made mention of the above subject and same has been referred to this committee. An examination of By-Law No. 62, as amended in 1924, shows that the same was not intended to be retroactive in its provisions and therefore no change is necessary. CARD FORM OF OFFICIAL RECEIPT.
By-Law No. 119 gives full power to the Grand Secretary, to issue the receipts for dues in such form as he may provide. The only requirement being that such receipts shall contain a printed or lithographed certificate, with facsimile signature of the Grand Secretary and Seal of the Grand Lodge, to the effect that the lodge issuing the receipts is a lawfully constituted Lodge of Master Masons, working under the jurisdiction of the M.-.W.-. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
163
Your Committee recommends that the following By-Laws be amended so as to read as follows: "48. Salaries.—The following annual salaries shall be paid to officers: To the Grand Master, $800.00; to the Grand Treasurer, $100.00; to the Grand Secretary, $1,800.00; to an Assistant to the Grand Secretary, who shall also act as Assistant Librarian, $3,600.00; to the Grand Master, for Private Secretary, $600.00; to an official stenographer for the Annual Communication, $50.00; to the Grand Tyler, $30.00; to an Assistant for the Grand Tyler, $20.00; to the Grand Chaplain and Grand Orator, $25.00 each. The Grand Master, Grand Secretary, and the Assistant to the Grand Secretary shall be paid monthly; the Grand Master, for Private Secretary, at such times as he may direct, and all others at the expiration of their terms of office." "125. Lodge Dues—Suspension.—Arnember, in arrears for one year's Lodge dues, shall be deemed guilty of neglect of his Masonic duty, and, by a two-thirds vote of the members present at any Stated Communication of his lodge, may be suspended from all the rights and privileges of Masonry, and when any member shall be in arrears for two or more years it shall be the duty of the Lodge to take action and suspend or excuse him: Provided, however. That no member shall be suspended for the non-payment of dues until he shall have had thirty days' notice of such intended action from the' Secretary, under the order and seal of the Lodge, by personal service or by registered letter mailed to him at his last known post office address, the registry receipt or returned letter to be evidence of sufficient service. Such order shall be made within sixty days after the Stated Communication next preceding St. John's Day in December." "169. Forms and Record Books.—The Forms hereto appended as well as the Forms and Record Books heretofore adopted, and furnished by direction of the Grand Secretary shall be the approved Forms and Records Books for, and used by, all Lodges in this Grand Jursidiction and the Grand Secretary is hereby authorized, with the approval of the Council of Administration, to designate an Official Printer who shall, upon application, furnish these Forms and Record Books. Provided, however, That nothing herein contained shall prevent Lodges from having Blanks and Record Books printed elsewhere if they meet with the requirements as indicated above." "172. Fees for Certificates.—Whenever the Grand Secretary is called upon to furnish a certified record of members by any subordinate Lodge, he is hereby authorized and he shall collect a fee of twenty-five cents per member from the Lodge requesting such certified record, and the Grand Secretary shall collect a fee of twenty-five cents for each certificate concerning the standing of any Lodge issuing Life Membership certificates. Such fee shall be by the Grand Secretary transmitted to the Grand Treasurer as provided by law and the Grand Secretary shall annually draw his warrant to the Secretary of the Kansas Masonic Home for the amount of fees collected during such year, for the use of its general expense fund." Your Committee recommends the approval of decisions one, two and three of the Grand Master, as follows: (1) " A Lodge may properly accompany a brother's remains t o the place on interment regardless of jurisdictional boundary lines and there conduct the burial service. 'The Lodge must be opened and closed according to regulations."
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PROCEEDINGS
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February,
(2) " I t is lawful for the Craft to lay the corner-stone of a building to be erected by a Masonic body for Masonic purposes, even though part of the same is to be used for rentals." (3) "Regardless of change in By-Law raising or lowering the amount, the fee in effect on date petition is received by a Lodge shall govern, no matter when the degrees may be conferred." This closes the report of your Committee upon all subjects referred to it by the Grand Master and Grand Secretary in their reports to the Committee on Reports of Grand Officers, but there remains another subject which has given your Committee cause for much more study and thought. The details of legislation which have been above reported are much more easily disposed of than the disputes, troubles and offenses which find their way to this committee and we now approach a decision upon the appeals from various individuals and Lodges arising out of trials which have been held during the past year. Your Grand Master has, in very strong language, referred to the regret which had been caused by inefficient execution of the Laws of the Craft and we have endeavored to give wise heed to his language. The object of law, and especially of Masonic Law, is not one of indirection and intrigue. A proper presentation of charges and an opportunity to appear in person and by representative to defend, should ever be perfectly guaranteed but when it becomes evident that, for any reason, justice and equity have been set aside, relief for the good of the Craft should be obtained from some source. The right of appeal from a verdict of acquittal given by Masonic Law in this jurisdiction is something of an anomaly and must have been adopted having in view the necessity for the exercise of drastic action when required. This subject, must of necessity, confront the Committee on Jurisprudence in the consideration of every such appeal; that Committee should in every instance judge with fairness and even with mercy but whenever it becomes evident that the ends of justice have been trampled upon and the dignity and honor of our great Craft lowered that Committee should brush aside the cobweb varnish and show the transaction in its true light. It is in this.spirit, having in mind the report of the Grand Master, that your Committee has approached the subject of considering the appeals which have been placed before the Committee at this Communication. Your Committee has had under consideration the appeal of FRANK V. HOYT from the action of Phillipsburg Lodge No. 184 in the acquittal of Brother W. C. SMITH. We have examined carefully the evidence in the case as a committee and as separate members of the committee and we recommend that the verdict be set aside and the case remanded for trial at such time and place as the incoming Grand Master shall direct.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
165
Your Committee has had under careful consideration the appeal of Americus Lodge No. 109 from the verdict of acquittal of TEA STONEBRAKER and we recommend that the verdict be set aside and a new trial had at such time and place as shall be designated by the incoming Grand Master. Your Committee has had under consideration the appeal of Brother A. J. HARRISON from the judgment of conviction and expulsion in Anthony Lodge No. 200. In this case no record of proceedings or of the testimony taken has been furnished by the appelant as provided by law and the appeal must therefore be dismissed. Your Committee has considered the appeal of Brother JOHN COWPE from the judgment of conviction and expulsion by Corner Stone Lodge No. 219 of Little River. It is the opinion of your Committee, in this case, that the evidence as shown by the transcript was insufficient and that a trial should have been had under other circumstances than what it was held and we recommend that the judgment be set aside and a new trial held at such time and place as the incoming Grand Master shall direct. Your Committee has had under consideration the appeal of Paola Lodge No. 37 from the acquittal of Brother PEARL E . COURTER and has made together and separately a close examination of the transcript of evidence and we are unable to find any valid reason for granting a. new trial and we therefore recommend the affirmance of the judgment; We have had under consideration the appeal of Reno Lodge No. 140i from the acquittal of GEORGE HAUSAM. A careful examination of t h e record shows that the same is incomplete and no reason can be found, nor has any been urged, for setting aside the judgment and we therefore recommend that it be affirmed. We have had under consideration the appeal of Brother WILLIAM M. TILLMAN from the action of Patmos Lodge No. 97 adjudging him guilty of embezzlement and entering a judgment of expulsion in said Lodge. In this case, no transcript of the evidence has been furnished by the appelant as required by law and we therefore recommend t h a t the appeal be dismissed. Your Committee has had under consideration the appeal of Brother CHARLES 0. MORRIS from conviction and sentence of expulsion by Wichita Lodge No. 99. The papers in this case have been filed with your Committee since the opening of this Communication. The summons appears to have been an alias summons and there is a large amount of correspondence in the hands of the committee with reference to the case. We would recommend that this matter be referred to the Committee on Jurisprudence for the incoming year. Fraternally submitted, ELRICK C . COLE, JOHN M . K I N K E L ,
JOHN MCCULLAGH, CHARLEY B . ERSKINE,
Committee.
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PROCEEDINGS
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February,
REPORT OF SPECIAL C O M M I T T E E .
M.-.W.-. HENRY F . MASON, chairman, presented the following report, which, on motion, was adopted: To the M:.W.-.Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: Your Special Committee to whom were referred several specified portions of the address of the Grand Master and of the report of the Grand Secretary, beg leave to submit the following report: The District Meeting is, without doubt, the best medium through which improvement and uniformity of the work can be promoted. The benefits, however, are proportionate to the attendance on the part of the brethren. Success or failure, we believe, depends largely upon the District Deputy Grand Masters, to whom we earnestly commend the M.'. W.'. Grand Master's timely admonition on this subject. We concur in the M.'. W.'. Grand Master's expression of approval and appreciation of the splendid service rendered by our distinguished Lecturers. We commend also his suggestion with regard to the serial reading in the lodges of portions of the report of the Committee on Correspondence. We recommend that lodges which have not already taken action in that regard should heed and act upon the Grand Secretary's suggestion that early arrangement be made for the preparation of historical sketches of their organization and development. Delay in such matters often leads to a loss of the material necessary to a satisfactory performance of the task. Your Committee feels that a distinguished service has been rendered to the cause of Masonry in this Grand Jurisdiction by the efforts of our Grand Secretary and the- several Masonic bodies of the City of Leavenworth, in placing within our Masonic Grand Lodge Building, ' at Topeka, the portrait of M.-.W.-. Brother RICHARD R . REES, that distinguished pioneer in Kansas Masonry and the first Grand Master of this State. We deem it a most valuable acquisition, not only by reason of its artistic merit but also by the fact of its historical worth to Masonry. The deep appreciation and gratitude of this Grand Lodge are due to all who have had a part in this important donation. Your Committee approves the views of our M.-.W.'. Grand Master in relation to a discretionary omission of certain parts of our Monitorial burial service, when circumstances and good taste suggest t h a t course. Becoming dignity and • impressiveness are always important on such occasions. Due regard to the participation in the service of other organizations, including the Ministry of the Church, and the wishes of the family of the deceased Brother, should be observed. On such occasions, the recommendation of the M.-. W.". Grand Master as to the use of certain specified paragraphs of the ritual -will undoubtedly serve as a proper guide. With the spirit of his recom-
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
167
mendation as to the essentials of a Masonic burial service we are in sincere accord. We affirm our faith in the sound judgment of our membership in general which we believe is the great bulwark against which commercial interest, seeking to prey upon Masonic sympathy, will break and we concur in the M.-.W.'. Grand Master's condemnation of chain letter schemes and commercialized solicitation of funds. We view with disfavor the promiscuous issuance of certificates of life memberships With exemption from dues. Lodges desiring to confer further honors on those who have passed through the chairs can readily find other and more suitable means for the purpose. A certificate of life membership, with exemption from dues, issued to all Past Masters, savors of financial reward, and we believe it is oiit of harmony with the honor and dignity of the office and does not convey the honor intended. As the Grand Secretary has fully set out in his report, the will of the late JAMES M . MCFARLAND, of Topeka, contains a devise to this Grand Lodge of his library of more than 5,000 volumes. In order that the gift may be effectual it is of course necessary that it shall be accepted by the Grand Lodge. We see no grounds for hesitancy in the acceptance of so desirable and valuable an offering, and we therefore recommend that such acceptance be formally signified by the adoption of this report. The Grand Secretary has given in detail the history of the donation and described the character of the library. From other sources we gather additional information showing the high estimate of its worth placed upon it by those most competent to judge. While the volumes of which it is made up do not relate especially to Masonry the wide range of subjects they cover is not broader than the field of Masonic universality. The depository the collector has chosen for the fruits of his years of careful and loving labor is in many respects a most appropriate one. Upon the, shelves of the Grand Lodge Library the rare volumes are sure of suitable care and protection. While they will not be consulted so frequently as if they formed a part of some public library, they will be readily accessible to such investigators as will make the best use of them, free from the destructive wear and tear incident to promiscuous handling. We recommend the expression by the Grand Lodge of its grateful appreciation of the act of the donor in making this truly munificent gift, and of its thanks to the Grand Secretary for the part he has taken in furthering the formation and carrying out of the testator's plan. Fraternally submitted, HENRY F . MASON, JAY B . K I R K , WILLIAM L'. BURDICK, •
Committee,
168
PROCEEDINGS OF THE
February,
ELECTION OF' GRAND OFFICERS. The hour having arrived for the election of Grand Officers, the M:. W.'. Grand Master announced the following tellers: HUBERT H . HUBBARD, No. 194; EDWIN C . EAGLES, N O . 149; F R E D R O Y ALFORD, NO. 8; ROY H . CLOSSEN, N O . 102; GLICK FOCKELE, NO. 27; JAMES H . B E E G L E , N O . 94; VERNON T . NICHOLSON, N o . 5 4 ; R O Y G . SHEARER, No. 98; JAMES H . CASSLER, No. 148; PERRY E. MILLER, No. 150; HARRY B . GRAHAM, NO. 208; LEWIS G. JENNINGS, NO. 200; CLARENCE M . CROSBY, NO. 404; BAYARD J. LONG, N O . 409; BARLUS ROMSTEDT, NO. 18.
The election resulted in the selection of the following officers: R.-. W.-. R.-.W.;. R.-. W.'. W.-. R.-.W.-. R.-.W.-.
CHARLES A. LOUCKS, N O . 289 JOHN W . NEILSON, NO. 113 CHARLES N. FOWLER, N O . 60 FERRIS M . HILL, N O . 12 .•., WILLIAM FRANK MARCH, NO. 9 ALBERT K. WILSON, N O . 51
Grand Master. Deputy Grand Master. Grand Senior Warden. ..Grand Junior Warden. Grand Treasurer.. Grand Secretary.
PLACE OF MEETING—1926.
W.-. WILLIAM P . ROOT, Master of Orient Lodge No. 51, on behalf of the Lodges of Topeka, extended a cordial invitation to the M.'. W.-. Grand Lodge to hold the next Annual Communication in the City of Topeka. On motion the invitation was accepted. P R E S E N T A T I O N OF J E W E L .
W.-. ELLSWORTH B . SEWELL, J R . , speaking for Orient Lodge No. 51, of Topeka, and of which lodge both the Grand Master and he are members and Past Masters, presented M.-. W.'. Brother STRAIN with a beautiful Past Grand Master's jewel. His remarks in making the gift were both interesting and mirthful and the Grand Master in accepting this decoration expressed not only his appreciation, but assured the brethren that in surrendering the gavel as Grand Master he would again return to the ranks in his lodge and continue as one of the humble workers in the quarries.-
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
169
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON FINANCE AND PROPERTY.
W/. EARL T . PYLE, chairman, submitted the following report, which, on his motion, was adopted: To the M.:W:.Grand Lodge, of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: The accounts of the Grand Lodge were audited by this Committee, and it was found that the reports of the Grand Treasurer and the Grand Secretary giving the receipts and expenditures during the year in detail, were correct, and show the true condition of our finances. As these reports appear elsewhere in the Proceedings, we deem it unnecessary to duplicate the information by repeating a summary of the accounts in this report. Cash on hand at the close of the accounts was $36,318.72, which was on deposit to the credit of R.-.W.'. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH, Grand
Treasurer, in the Merchants National Bank, of Lawrence, Kansas. A letter certifying to the amount on deposit, is attached hereto and made a part of this report, and reads as follows: " MERCHANTS NATIONAL BANK, LAWRENCE, KANSAS, February 7, 1925.
This is to certfy that there is in this bank today, to the credit of W. F . MARCH, Grand Treasurer, A. F. & A. M., the sum of thirty-six thousand three hundred eighteen dollars and seventy-two cents ($36,318.72). (Signed) V. K. HOOVER,
(Seal)
•
President."
BONDS.
Bonds amounting to $58,200.00, with all unmatured interest coupons attached, are in the hands of the Grand Treasurer, and were inspected by the committee. A recapitulation of the bond account is as follows: Bonds on hand March 1, 1924 Purchased during 1924
$45,700 00 15,000 00
Total chargeable to Grand Treasurer !....$ 60,700 00 Ottawa County bonds 17-18-19 and 20 called and paid $ 2,000 00 Greenwood County bond No. 12, matured and paid 500 00 Bonds on hand at close of account 58,200 00 Total paid and on hand
$ 60,700 00
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PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Bonds 17-18-19 and 20, of School District No. 12, Ottawa County, amounting to $2,000.00 due January 1, 1929, were called and paid after the close of the 1924 account. The principal, with interest of $50.00, has been taken into the 1925 accounts as shown by the Grand Treasurer's letter of February 7, 1925, attached hereto and made a part of this report: "To the Finance Committee: Bonds of School District No. 12 Ottawa County, Nos. 17-18-1920, due January 1, 1929, were called in and collection made for them after the accounts of the Grand Treasurer had been closed. Cashier's Check No. 7872 of The Merchants National Bank for $2,050 is submitted in payment for these bonds with interest for six months. Fraternally, WILLIAM FRANK
Feby. 7, 1925.
MARCH,
Grand Treasurer."
A total of $2,783.75 interest, accrued on the bond investment for the year ending December 31, 1924. This amount was collected and properly accounted for. DISPENSATIONS.
The following dispensations were issued during the year: 55 to confer degrees out of time (one covering two brethren) at $5.00 each $280 00 38 to elect officers account election held on illegal date, at $5.00 each 190 00 2 to lay corner-stones, without charge. 42 to elect and install officers irregularly account vacancy, without charge. Total collections
$470 00
Amount remitted to the Grand Secretary by the Grand Master prior to the close of the accounts $445 00 Balance accounted for in 1925 accounts 25 00 $470 00 All dispensations issued for which a charge was made have been returned except those issued to Ellsworth and Delavan to confer degrees out of time. The fee has been paid and is included in the amounts remitted to the Grand Secretary. Dispensations to elect or install officers issued to the following lodges have not been returned: Urbana, Arkansas City, Frankfort, Kirwih and Hiawatha.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
REVENUE
AND
OF KANSAS.
171
EXPENSES.
Revenue. The estimated revenue from all sources for the ensuing year is $42,717 50 Expenses. The expenses for which we recommend appropriations at this Communication are as follows: Assistant to Grand Secretary $ 3,600 00 Committee allowance (By-Law No. 49) : 150 00 Expenses Grand Lodge Communication .' 375 00 Expenses and per diem of Lecturer 1,500 00 Grand Secretary's Incidentals 1,200 00 Grand Treasurer's Bond Premium 87 50 Grand Secretary's Bond Premium 10 00 Grand Master's Contingent Fund : 1,000 00 Grand Master's Salary 800 00 Grand Treasurer's Salary 100 00 Grand Secretary's Salary 1,800 00 Grand Secretary's Honorarium 1,200 00 Grand Master's apron 61 50 Grand Officers' portraits 60 00 Historical Registry and Abstract 300 00 Library furniture, binding, etc 1,000 00 Mileage to Representatives (By-Law No. 51) 2,975 61 Mileage and expenses (By-Laws Nos. 49 and 50) 1,531 73 Minor salaries (By-Law No. 48) 150 00 Office and Library Building 2,000 00 Printing Annual Proceedings 3,200 00 Postage and Express 600 00 Private Secretary to Grand Master 600 00 Salary Chairman Committee on Correspondence (By-Law No. 49)..... ; 300 00 Stationery and Printing '. 800 00 Stenographic and Clerical help 3,000 00 Taxes 3,000 00 Special Appropriation to Masonic Home Endowment Fund.. 10,000 00 PROPERTY.
The Grand Lodge Building, furniture, fixtures, etc., are in excellent condition and worthy of high praise by the Fraternity. Our Library contains volumes of the finest thoughts the human mind can cherish, and is an asset of almost incomparable value.
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PROCEEDINGS
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February,
An inspection of the entire holdings of this M/. W/. Grand Lodge is indeed a pleasure and well worth the time of any Brother who may avail himself of an opportunity to visit and make an examination of the property. Fraternally submitted, EARL T . PYLE, HOMER B . FINK, MOSES H . COLE,
EDGAR W . INGRAM, LUCIAN L . CONSTANT, Committee.
INSTALLATION,
M.-.W.-. ELRICK C . COLE, assisted by M / . W / . OWEN J. WOOD, as Grand Marshal, duly installed the following Grand Officers: M.-.W.-. CHARLES A. LOUCKS Grand Master Emerald Lodge No. 289, Laldn. R.'. W.'. JOHN W . NEILSON ..Deputy Grand Master St. John's Lodge No. 113, Concordia. R.-. W.'. CHARLES N . FOWLEE Grand Senior Warden Salina Lodge No. 60. Salina. R.-. W.'. F E R R I S M . H I L L Grand Junior Warden Emporia Lodge No. 12, Emporia. R.-. W.'. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH Grand Treasurer Acacia Lodge No. 9, Lawrence. R.-. W.". ALBERT K . WILSON Grand Secretary Orient Lodge No. 51, Topelsa.
The M.'. W.'. Grand Master announced the following appointive Grand Officers: Bro. and Rev. F R E D E . BROOKS Grand Chaplain Smithton Lodge No. 1 (residence, Marysville). W.". GEORGE F . BEEZLEY Grand Senior Deacon Glrard Lodge No. 93, Girard. W.'. JOHN S . RIGG.. Grand Junior Deacon Eeno Lodge No. 140, Hutclilnson. W.'. BAYAED J. LONG Grand Marshal Haviland Lodge No. 409, Haviland. W.'. EMERSON B . W E L L S Grand Sword Bearer Lecompton Lodge No. 420 (residence. Topeka). W.". CHARLIE E . CALE Grand Senior Steward MoUne Lodge No. 367 (residence, Pratt). W.'. G. DONALD DICKEY Grand Junior Steward Leoti Lodge No. 340, Leotl. W.'. FRANCIS L . P I E R C E Grand Pursuivant Emerald Lodge No. 289, Lakin. W.-. W. AMER BURNETT Grand Tyler ^Mountain Slope Lodge No. 186, Oberlin.
1924-25.
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LODGE
OF KANSAS.
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STANDING COMMITTEES.
The M / . W / . Grand Master announced the appointment of the following committees for the ensuing year: On Credentials.—ROBERT H . MONTGOMERY, N O . 63, Oswego; PHILIP EUGENE STOTLER, N O . 3 (residence, R. F . D. No. 2, Bethel); HENRY L . GAMES, NO. 269, Conway Springs; ROY H . CLOSSEN, No. 102, Coffey%dlle; GEORGE W . MCCLELLAND, NO. 17, Topeka. On Reports of Grand Officers.—BEN S. PAULEN, NO. 95, Fredonia; JAY B . KIRK, No. 38, lola; J. FORREST AYRES, NO. 232, Greenleaf; DWIGHT E . COOK, N O . 16, Manhattan;
RAY RUTHRAUFF, N O . 303,
Wichita. On Finance and Property.—EARL
T . PYLE, NO. 134, Clay Center;
HOMER B . F I N K , N O . 225, Topeka; MOSES H . COLE, N O . 206, Harper; LTJCIAN L . CONSTANT, N O . 173, Belle Plaine; RICHARD W . EVANS, N O .
222, Dodge City. On Jurisprudence.—ELRICK C . COLE, NO. 15, Great Bend; JOHN MCCULLAGH, N O . 194, Galena; JOHN M . KINKEL, NO. 140 (residence, Topeka); CHARLEY B . ERSKINE, N O . 283, Cimarron; OTTO R . SOUDERS,
NO. 99, Wichita. On Chartered Lodges and Lodges U. D.—ELLSWORTH B . SEWELL, JR., N O . 51, Topeka; JOHN R. EMERY, N O . 39, Seneca; WILL H . STRNAD, N O . 128, Munden. On Correspondence.—ALBERT
K . WILSON, N O . 51, Topeka.
On Necrology.—FRED E . BROOKS, No. 1 (residence, Marysville). SPECIAL COMMITTEE. On Lodge Trials—Balloting—Courtesies Exchanged—Physical Qualifications.—JOHN
MCCULLAGH, N O . 194, Galena;
RICHARD E . BIRD,
No. 303, Wichita; CHARLES N . FOWLER, NO. 60, Salina.
VOTE OF THANKS.
M.-.W.-. GILES H . LAMB, moved that a vote of thanks be extended the Masonic Bodies of Wichita for the many courtesies extended the M/. W/. Grand Lodge. Motion was adopted.
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PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
READING OF JOURNAL.
The journal was then read by Brother LEON L . COUSLAND, Patmos Lodge No. 97, official stenographer, and approved. CLOSING C E R E M O N I E S .
TThe M.-.W.-. Grand Master then closed the M.-.W.-. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted. Masons of Kansas in Ample Form.
Grand Master,
ATTEST:
Grand Secretary.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
175
MASONIC DISTRICTS, AND LIST OF DISTRICT D E P U T Y GRAND MASTERS FOR 1925.
District No. 1 District No. 2 District No. 3
PAUL M . MARTIN BENJAMIN B . NOREIS.. *JOHN H . CLARKE
Highland Horton Leavenworth
District No. 4 District No. 5 District No. 6
*ARMON P . VAUGHN CLAYBOURNE W . REYNOLDS A. DAVID FOX
Kansas City Spring Hill Louisburg
District No. 7
SAMUEL TUCKER
Pleasanton
District No. 8
FRED ROY ALFORD
Fort Scott
District No. 9
EDGAR T . FOSTER
District No. 10.....
HUBERT H . HUBBARD:
District District District District District District District District District District District District
No. 11 No, 12 No. 13 No. 14 No. 15 No. 16 No. 17 No. 18 No. 19 No. 20 No. 21 No. 22
A. PHILLIP LAPHAM JOHN C . WASSON GEORGE O . FOSTER FRANK E . BRENEMAN JAMES A. CAMPBELL EDWIN C . EAGLES ENOCH E. BROOKS LEWIS W . DAVIS CLIFFORD W . BALDWIN JAMES M . LAYTON. *HOMER C . ANDERSON H I E L B . HAMPSHIRE
District No. 23
.GLICK FOCKELE
District No. 24 District No. 25
JAMES H . BEEGLE *STEPHEN A. D. GEAUQUE
Colony
Galena ..Wetmore Muscotah Lawrence Hoyt Humboldt .Thayer Peru Elk City Seneca Irving Topeka Overbrook Le Roy
Neodesha Manhattan
District No. 26
L E E D . KEENER
District No. 27 District No. 28
ORVAL E . MOON EDMUND L . FOULSTON
Emporia MoUne
District No. 29
THEODORE H . DOHRER
Arkansas City
District No. 30 District No. 31
JAMES W . WBRTS JOHN A. LESHER
District No. 32 District District District District District District
No. No. No. No. No. No.
33 34 35 36 37 38
ROY G . SHEARER JAMES A. CASSLER :....CHARLES O . VARNER.. CLAUDE O . CONKEY,. *GLEN CHAMBERLAIN.. PERRY E . MILLER DAVID A. NYWALL.
District No. 39
GUY W . BROWN
District No. 40 District No. 41
CHARLES S. LOCKLIN HARRY B . GRAHAM
Wakefield
..Republic Codell
Abilene McPherson Augusta , Newton Wichita Wellington Formoso
Beloit Marion Haven
176
District District District District District
PROCEEDINGS
No. No. No. No. No.
February,
ORION E . FARRIS LEWIS G . JENNINGS HARMON J. BOWER JOSEPH E . BREAKEY ARTHUR S. PEACOCK
•
District No. 47
HAYES FLOYD
....Ness City
District District District District
RALPH C . STEINER ARCHIBALD L . RUSSELL CLARENCE E . FARNSWORTH BENJAMIN H . FLYR
No. No. No. No.
42 43 44 45 46
OF THE
48 49 50 51
Norwich AnthonyNorton Downs WaKeeney Lyons Pittsburg Hoisington Oaljley
District No. 52
HENRY O . TRINKLE
District No. 53 District No. 54
CLARENCE M . CROSBY R. NELSON LONG
Garden City St. Francis Hoxie
District No. 55 District No. 56........ District No. 57
GuY R. CURRIER RICHARD L . DADISMAN HAROLD E . RIPPLE.....
Kensington Pratt Dodge City
District No. 58 District No. 59 District No. 60
W I L L C . DICKEY JOHN B . FLEMING BARLUS ROMSTEDT
Leoti Hamilton '. Ottawa
District No. 61
EARL W . RAY
District No. 62
HARVEY B . BRENEMAN
Wilsey Macksville
District No. 63.........
ELMER S . NANCE
Oswego
District No. 64
JOHN F . CARTER
Nortonville
ERLE S. FRANCIS
Westmoreland
District No. 65.... District District District District District District District District District
No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No.
66..: 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74
District No. 75
JAMES F . AYRES EDWARD M . SIMPSON PAUL B . HOFFMANN THOMAS R . CAUTHERS EUGENE W . DAVIS :. JOHN M . YEARICK *RAY B . RAMSEY.. CHARLES O . HAWKS CHARLES D . HICKOK
;
JAMES H . TRICE SPECIAL ADDRESSES.
No. 3 4 21 25' 36 72
*Postoffice Addresses. 214 Pottawatomie St. 4161 Cambridge. 415 Western Ave. Box 86, K. S. A. C. 816 South Water. 635 Brooks.
Greenleaf Clyde Holyrood Ashland Liberal Goodland Topeka Harveyville Ulysses-
Medicine Lodge
GRAND
1924-25.
LODGE
OF
Ill
KANSAS.
LIST OF DISTRICTS. DISTRICT- N O . 1.
Location. White Cloud Highland Troy Wathena Severance Bendena
Name. White Cloud Smithton Troy Wathena Severance ...Bendena
DISTRICT N O . 7.
No. 78 1 55 64 313 440
Location. LaCygne Pleasanton Mound City Blue Mound Xcnia..... Parker
DISTRICT N O . 2.
Hiawatha Hamlin Morrill Powhattan Horton Sabetha Robinson
Hiawatha... Hamlin Morrill Powhattan.. Hereon Sabetha Robinson DISTRICT N O . 3.
DISTRICT N O . 4.
Kansas City Wyandotte 3 Kansas City Armourdale 271 Kansas City Kaw 272 Kansas City *R. E. Sherman..369 Kansas City Ben Hur 322 Kansas City... Rosedale 333 Kansas City West Gate 438 Bonner Springs Bonner Springs 366 Wlilte Church Delaware 96 Piper .'...Piper 385 Turner Turner 425 *Roger E. Sherman. DISTRICT N O . 5.
Olathe 19 Gardner 65 Palestine 127 Shawnee 54 Lenexa. 135 Spring Hill........ 56 Overland Park..436 Stanley '...444
DISTRICT N O . 6.
Loulsburg Paola Osawatomle Fontana
Peace Paola Osage Valley Equity
No. 61 88 33 286 47 341
DISTRICT N O . 8.
.. 35 ..185 ..373 .363 .326 162 159
Leavenworth Leavenworth .... 2 Leavenworth King Solomon... 10 Leavenworth Hiram 68 Ft. Leavenworth ..Hancock. 311 Lansing ...Nine Mile 49 Bolihg -..Boling 305 Easton Easton 45
Olathe Gardner Bdgerton Shawnee Lenexa Spring Hill Overland Park Stanley
.
Name. LaCygne Eureka Mound City Lotus Xenia Parker
243 37 24 131
Garland Fort Scott Devon Hiattville... Hcpler Fulton Mapleton Uniontown Bronson
Memphis .108 Rising Sun........ 8 Devon 92 Hlattville 216 Heplor ...398 Fulton 210 Eldora 28 Excelsior 115 Bourbon 268
DISTRICT N O . 9.
Lane Greeley Garnett Westphalia Colony Kincaid Richmond
:
Lane 339 Grcoloy 211 Delphian 44 Avon 305 Olive Branch ...212 Kincaid 338 Richmond 426
DISTRICT N O . 10.
Scammon Columbus Galena Ba.xter Springs Weir..
Scammon Prudence Galena Baxter Black Diamond
351 100 194 71 274
DISTRICT N O . 11.
Whiting......; Netawaka Wetmore Centralia Corning Goff
Whiting Polar Star.. Wetmore.... Home .Nemaha ..Gofl
.250 .130 .. 53 .. 89 .'... 13 430
DISTRICT N O . 12.
Doniphan Effingham Muscotah Atchison Atchison Huron Potter
Arcana Mackey Muscotah Washington Active Huron Kickapoo
31 48 116 5 158 72 4
PROCEEDINGS
178 DISTRICT N O .
Localion. Lawrence Lawrence De Soto Linwood Eudora Baldwin Tonganoxle.. Perry.. Lecompton
DISTRICT N O .
Clrcleville Holton Soldier Mayotta Hoyt Denlson
DISTRICT N O .
Moran La Harpe lola •. Humboldt.! .Savonburg
Sedan Elgin Cedar Vale
136 350 355
IS.
Edna Keystone Caney Tyro , Fortitude : Cherryvale CaVson
DISTRICT No.
MarysvlUe Oketo Seattle Summerfleld Axtell Seneca Oneida
76 239 103 416 149
17.
Vesper Olive Chautauqua
DISTRICT N O .
Edna Coffeyville Caney Tyro Independence Cherryvale Elk City
245 325 38 29 315
16.
Erie TJrbana Cedar King David Tliayer DISTRICT N O .
20 42 240 393 327 372
15.
Marmaton La Harpe Tola Pacific "Virginia
DISTRICT N O .
Erie Urbana Chanute Cbanute Thayer
No. 6 9 40 241 83 23 190 415 420
14.
CirclevlUe Holton Soldier Mayetta Hoyt Denison
345 102 324 386 107137 132
19.
Marysville Oketo Beattie Summerfield A.xtell Seneca Oneida
February,
DISTRICT No.
13.
Name. ..Lawrence ..Acacia ..De Soto ..Linwood ..Doric ..Palmyra ..Henri ..Perry Lecompton
OF THE
91 25 259 354 234 39 323
Location. Watervllle Blue Rapids Irving Frankfort Vermillion
20.
Name. Sutton Blue Rapids Blue Valley Frankfort Vermillion
No. 85 169 112 67 320
DISTRICT N O . 21.
Topeka Topeka Topeka Auburn Dover Wakarusa Maple Hill
Topeka Orient Siloam Auburn Dover Wakarusa Maple Hill
DISTRICT N O .
Lyndon Osage City.... Burlingame Carbondale Overbrook Scranton
24.
25.
Garfield Wamego Lafayette Ashlar Farmers
DISTRICT N O .
Clifton Clay Center Green Oak HIU Wakefield
144 82 27 314 66
Constellation .... 95 New Albany 81 Greenwood 163 Coyville..: 57 Harmony 94 Altoona.. 118 Benedict 403 Buffalo 379
DISTRICT N O .
Leonard ville Wamego Manhattan Riley Randolph
101 141 79 ^70 ?62 407
23.
Gflead Tuscan Neosho Hebron Burlington
DISTRICT N O .
Fredonia New Albany Fall River CoyviUe Neodesha Altoona Benedict Buffalo
22.
Euclid Signal Corinthian Carbondale Ridgeway Scranton
DISTRICT N O .
Yates Center Neosho Falls Le Roy Gridley Burlington
17 51 225 32 138 402 370
235 75 16 344 166
26.
Clifton Clay Center Highland Oak Hill VVakefleld
122 134 296 334 396
GRAND
1924-25.
DISTRICT N O .
DISTRICT N O .
DISTRICT N O .
DISTRICT N O .
Republic Scandia Belleville Narka Cuba Munden
Location. Augusta Beaumont Douglass Leon El Dorado Towanda Rosalia
155 126 26 267 248
Newton Halstead Peabody Florence Burrton
110 233 156 342 133 401
30.
Republic Lebanon.. Belleville.. Narka Cuba Munden
..123 ..221 ..129 ..349 ..362 128
DISTRICT N O . 31.
Lincoln Sylvan Grovo.. Lucas Luray Natoma Plainville....; ' Codell
Lincoln 154 Sylvan Grove....359 Blue Hill 198 Luray 153 Natoma 390 Paradise 290 Codell ...418
DISTRICT N O .
Abilene Bennington Enterprise Junction City Salina Solomon
32.
Benevolent 98 Bennington 180 Enterprise 437 Union 7 Salina 60 Solomon City....l05
DISTRICT N O .
Canton Galva McPherson Windom Lindsborg Moundridge Marquette
33.
Canton Galva McPherson Windom Lindsborg Moundridge Marquette
:
DLSTEICT N O .
Wichita Wichita Wichita Wichita Mulvane Clearwater Valley Center Cheney White Water Sedgwick
No. 74 439 151 223 97 30 434
35.
Newton Halstead Halcyon Advance... Burrton
142 46 120 114 182
36.
Sunflower 86 Wichita 99 Albert Pike 303 BestorG.Brown 433 Mulvane 201 Unity 273 Valley Center....364 Morton 258 Braiuerd 280 Sedgwick 139
DISTRICT N O .
37.
Belle Plaine Belle Plaine Wellington Wellington South Haven Haven Oxford Oxford Caldwell Sumner Milan Milan Conway Springs....Mistletoe Argonia Argonia:
173 150 157 165 203 255 269 285 .
DISTRICT N O . 38.
Randall ; .Jewell Mankato Burr Oak Formoso Esbon Lebanon
Randall Jewell Mankato Burr Oak Formoso Salem Oak
DISTRICT N O .
197 251 172 276 397 346 353
34.
Name. Mystic Tie Beaumont Douglass Joppa Patmos Towanda Rosalia
DISTRICT N O .
29.
Winfleld Clinton Dexter Maple City Crescent Latham
179
DISTRICT N O .
No. 12 109 193 395 80 152 335
28.
Hope Meridian Longton Moline Canopy
Winfleld. Burden '. Dexter Maple City... Arkansas City Jjatham
KANSAS.
27.
Location. Name. Emporia Emporia Americus Americas Hartford Hartford Saftordville Saffordville Cottonwood Palls..Zeredatha Lebo Lebo Allen Allen Howard Elk Falls Longton Moline Grenola
LODGE OF
Minneapolis... Barnard Delphos Glasco Simpson Beloit Scottsville
304 11 87 178 336 228 ."....287
39.
Minneapolis Saltville Delphos Glasco Sincerity Mt. Vernon Scottsville
143 59 202 292 214 145 249
PROCEEDINGS
180
DiSTKICT No. 40. Location. Name. No. Gypsum Gypsum City....328 Herington Kansas 307 Delavan..... Deiavan 375 Hope Cyrus 288 White City Wliite City 380 Marion Center 147 Burdiclc Burdick 429 DiSTUICT No. 41. Arlingtcn Cable Turon Turon Hutchinson Reno Hutchinson Hutchinson Mount Hope Mount Hope Haven FriendsMp Nickcrson Nickerson Pretty Prairie Pretty Prairie. DISTRICT N O .
Kingman Norwich Spivey Zenda Cunningham
299 358 140 445 238 208 43 .428
42.
Ninnescah Norwich Spivey Zenda Cunningham
230 319 347 378 427
Anthony Harper Attica Waldron Freeport Stohrvllle DISTRICT N O .
Almena Long Island Norton Norcatur Oberlin...; Jennings Lenora Glen Elder Cawker City Downs Osborne Alton Stockton
44.
45.
Glen Elder Cawker City Downs Saqui Occidental Newahcuba
DISTRICT No.
Russell Hays Ellis Bunker Hill Wa-Keeney....'.
200 206 262 377 389 368
Naphtali 310 Long Island 231 Norton 199 Norcatur 317 Mountain Slope 186 Jennings 360 Lenora 181
DISTRICT No.
294 125 204 160 207 189
46.
Kussell Hays Apollo Beulah Wa-Keeney
February.
DISTRICT No.
Location. La Crosse McCracken... Rush Center Ness City
DISTRICT No.
Geneseo Frederick Little River Alden Sterling Lyons Chase
177 195 297 291 148
48.
Geneseo 361 Frederick 337 Corner Stone....219 Alden 308 Steriing 171 Royal 192 Chase 247
DISTRICT No.
Girard Cherokee Pittsburg Mulberry Arcadia Arma Walnut Farlington
47.
Name. No, La Crosse 330 McCracken 58 ...Walnut City 215 ..AValnut Valley ..191
49.
Girard Cherokee Pittsburg Mulberry Arcadia Arma Vulcan Godfrey
DISTRICT N O .
DISTRICT N O . 43.
Anthony Harper Attica Waldron Freeport Bluff City
OF THE
Great Bend Larned Ellinwood Hoisington Claflin
93 119 187 261 ...329 408 229 124
50.
Groat Bend Larned Ellinwood Hoisington Claflin
15 167 217 331 424
DISTRICT N O . 51.
Oakley Wallace. Gove Grainfleld Quinter Sharon Springs
Oakley 253 Wallace 318 Gove City 302 Grainfleld 381 Quinter. 410 Sharon Springs..417
DISTRICT N O .
Coolidge Syracuse Laldn Garden City Deerfleld
52.
Coolldge.. Syracuse.. Emerald... Tyrlan Deerfleld
.316 .309 ..289 ..246 432
DISTRICT N O . 53.
Atwood McDonald Saint Francis
Atwood 164 McDonald 383 Saint Francis ...404
DISTRICT N O .
Hill City Hoxie Morland
54.
Millbrook Hoxie Morland
281 348 414
GRAND
1924-25.
LODGE OF
DISTRICT N O . 55.
Localion. Gaylord. Kirwin... Logan Smith Center Phillipsburg Kensington
DISTRICT N O . 62.
Name. No. Gaylord 183 Kirwin 175 Logan 264 Western Star....174 Phillipsburg 184 Kensington 405
DiSTBICT N o .
Greensburg Pratt Preston Bucklin MuUinville Haviland Coats '
Location. Lewis Stafford St. John Macksville Sylvia Kinsley
DISTRICT N O . 57.
Preston St. Bernard Spearvllle Ensign Alpha
Name. Lewis Stafford Ionic Macksville ...Sylvia Mt. Moriah
• No. 220 ..252 254 371 391 179
DISTRICT N O . 63.
56.
Kiowa 293 Kilwinning........265 Rob Morris 332 Grand View 376 Mullinville 399 Haviland 409 Coats :....394
Cimarron Dodge City Spearville Ensign Jetmore
181
KANSAS.
283 222 388 413 282
Oswego Adams Altamont .....Altamont Chetopa Chetopa Parsons Parsons Mound Valley Landmark McCune Temple
63 69 73 117 218 237
DISTRICT N O . 64.
Oskaloosa Valley Falls Winchester Meriden McLouth NortonviUe.
Oskaloosa Valley FaUs Jefferson Meriden Lyra Mt. Zion
14 21 84 236 256 266
DISTRICT N O . 65. DISTRICT N O . 58.
Dighton Scott City Leoti Horace
;
Barney Anthem... Leoti Horace
..279 ..284 ..340 ..352
Havensville Onaga Westmoreland Emmett Fostoria
l.Havensville Onaga Westmoreland Emmett Fostoria
34 188 ..257 387 392
DISTRICT N O . 66.. DISTRICT N O . 59.
Eureka Madison Severy Hamilton Climax Toronto
Fidelity 106 Madison............l96 Twin Grove 213 Hamilton 301 ....Climax 411 Woodson 121 DISTRICT N O . 60.
Wellsville Ottawa Ottawa Pomona Melvem Williamsburg Waverly Quenemo
Wellsville... Ottawa Melody McKinley.. Melvern Anchor Waverly Quenemo
.356 .. 18 .400 .. 41 .. 22 224 244 270
Washington Linn Haddam Greenleaf.
Frontier Fraternal Dirigo Greenleaf.
104 170 226 232
DISTRICT N O . 67.
Concordia Clyde Jamestown Miltonvale
St. John's 113 Prairie Queen.. .176 Jamestown........227 Miltonvale .242
DISTRICT N O . 68.
Ellsworth Brookville Wilson Holyrood
Ellsworth Brookville Samaria Holyrood
146 209 298 343
DISTRICT N O . 69. DISTRICT N O . 61.
Council Grove Parkerville Wilsey.:
Council Grove .. 36 ParkerviUe 168 Wilsey 382
Ashland Coldwater Protection Wilmore
Ashland Comanche Protection Wilmore.....
...277 .....295 384 412
182
PROCEEDINGS DISTRICT N O .
Location. Meade Liberal Plains Mlnneola
OF. THE
70.
Name. Webb Fargo Plains , Minneola...
February,
DISTRICT N O .
No. 275 300 367 431
Location. A^lma Eskrldge Alta Vista Dwight H a r v e y vlUe
306 321 423 442 443
Sublette Hugoton Elkhart Ulysses..... Johnson Satanta
73.
Name. Alma Eminence.! Alta Vista Dwight HarveyvlUe
No. 161 205 357 374 421
DiSTEICT N o . 71. DISTRICT N O .
Colby Goodland Selden Rexford Kanorado
St. T h o m a s Goodland Selden Kexford Kanorado DISTRICT N O .
72.
Silver Lake Lake 50 St. M a r y s Pottawatomie.... 52 T o p e k a (North)....Golden Rule 90 RossvlUe Hesperian Ill Delia Delia 419
74.
Santa F e Hugoton Elkhart Ulysses Johnson Satanta DISTRICT N O .
312 406 422 435 441 446
75.
Medicine Lodge ....Delta 77 Lake City Medicine Valley260 Hazelton Charity ....263 Kiowa Cosmos 278
ST A T I S T I G ALST A B L E S. m-
184
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KANSAS.
199
200
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
COMPLETE SUMMARY FOR 1924.
Number of lodges working under charter, 1924 Number of lodges chartered
438 8
Number of lodges working under charter, 1925
446
Number of members December 31, 1923
75,265
Increase. Number Number Number Number Number Number Number
initiated passed raised admitted restored omitted last report members lodges U. D
4,262 4,061 4,095 833 188 6 204=5,326 Decrease.
Number Number Number Number Number Number
dimitted died suspended expelled erroneously reported members Allen Lodge U. D
Net gain Number members December 31, 1924
1,103 844 557 18 5 23=2,550 ,. 2,776 78,041
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
201
EXPELLED, 1924.
Wyandotte Lodge No. 3.—NED T . MCCREA, April 18, 1924. Washington Lodge No. 5.—JAMES H . MYLAR, February 18, 1924. Emporia Lodge No. 12.—IRVING C . WOODARD, April 18, 1924. Olathe Lodge No. 19.—JESSE CARL CASWELL, September 11, 1924; CHARLES FARRIS PETTYJOHN, November 13, 1924.
Pacific Lodge No. 29.—FRED F . WIKLAND, July 1, 1924. Burlington Lodge No. 66.—VICTOR E . SEBWALD, June 6, 1924. Mystic Tie Lodge No. 74.—EDGAR C . CHAFFEE, October 7, 1924. Patmos Lodge No. 97.—WILLIAM M . TILLMAN, March 7, 1924. Wichita Lodge No. 99.—STANLEY M . EARP, June 2, 1924; CHARLES O . MORRIS, July 21, 1924. Pittsburg Lodge No. 187.—CLAUDE F . JOHNSON, September 11, 1924. Hays Lodge No. 195.—CLAUDE A. PLUSH, July 7, 1924.
Lewis Lodge No. 220.—ROY G . JENKINS, March 3, 1924. Unity Lodge No. 273.—HENRY ROY PREESE, January 15, 1924. Kiowa Lodge No. 293.—GEORGE G . PRICE, March 10, 1924. Grainfield Lodge No. 381.—FORREST J. EATON, January 15, 1924.
Quinter Lodge No. 410.—NEAL WINNINGHAM, January 14, 1924.
SUSPENDED FOR UNMASONIC CONDUCT, 1924.
Arcana Lodge No. 31.—CHARLES JAMES, January 19, 1924. Mystic Tie Lodge No. 74.—SAMUAL A. MORRIS, October 21, 1924. Sunflower Lodge No. 86.—CHARLIE C . CLUFF, November 25, 1924. Patmos Lodge No. 97.—EDWARD C . BUCKLE, Septeriiber 26, 1924; RICHARD S . DRAKE, March 6, 1924. Reno Lodge No. 140.—CHARLES W . HUTCHINGS, June 18, 1924. Pittsburg Lodge No. 187.—WILLIAM GOOCH, August 14, 1924.
Canopy Lodge No. 248.—FRED R . LANTER, November 5, 1924. Oak Lodge No. 287.—CECIL S . AMIS, September 12, 1924.
1st and 3d Tuesday
Stated Communications.
23 59 71
Baxter Springs..
Axtell
Arkansas City..,.
Saltville
Axtell
WasMngton
Cable
Butler
Crawford Clarli
Crawford
Hewit Taylor. Thomas E. McCurry. Floyd L. Bumgarner. •Arthur O. Remington
Isaac McCarty John M. Hyde Clete J. Piclcinpaugh
Roy G. Shearer. Sherman W. Peters. George H. Reaburn. Jerry B.'Fields. Harold C. Bennie. Herbert K. George. Henry A. Cory. Harry R. Markham. Elmer A. DeBolt. fNova H. Brown. Lewis G. Jennings. Joseph F. Davenport. William R. Hanna. Charles L. Listen. Arthur B.Eliot. Samuel Gardner. Francis M. Mead. John E. Henderson. Charles P. Brading. Marcellus W. Short. Charles H. Brown. Carl H. Moore. Edwin C. McCray. William Berry.
Monday on or before®.... *Russell S. Jarrett
Ralph B. Varner Ernest E. Swanson
George H. Raish Albert B. Ross 1st and 3d Thxu-sday 1st and 3d Wednesday .... Alban G. Peterson
Lloyd B. Mitchell 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Wednesday .... Walter O. Fesler Orin F. Clapp *Jolin L. Glllary 2d and 4th Monday Herbert J. Clark 2d and 4th Thursday
1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Friday
Secretaries.
Jonathan E. Crane *William S. Stout •Jonathan J. Wingfleld Hal. G. Weaver
Masters.
1st and 3d Saturday Tuesday on or bof. ®«> .. William J. Phelan George O. Elliott
Wabaunsee....
County.
357 207 118 109 200 329 285 133 299 408 277 5 158 262 164 32 74 234
Allen
Name of Lodge.
Wabaunsee.... 1st and 3d Monday
Allen
Location.
161 310
308
No.
NAMES OF LODGES, MASTERS AND SECRETARIES FOR THE YEAR ENDING DECEMBER 31,1925.
ft
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Carbondale Cawker City Chautauqua
King David
416
1st and 3d Thursday Sumner Montgomery.. 2d and 4th Tuesday McPherson.... 1st and 3d Tuesday 2d and 4tli Saturday 2d and 4th Wednesday.. Mitchell Chautauqua.. 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Monday Nemaha 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Neosho Neosho
Marshall Butler
Fred B. Larkin. Charles S. Wilcox. William A. Crews. JohnF.McCluro. Guy W. Brown. Oswald C. Hardy. Herbert G. Perry. George F. Watts. William J. Lewis. Samuel W. Gilson. Albert D. Sparr. tMiles E. Baxter. William L. Burnam. Rodney S. Boatwright. Albert E. Halsey. Guy E. Warner. Ross M. Arthur. Walter B. Hoke.. Charles A. Truesdell. Charles W. Hall. William Sinclair. William M. Scott. Patrick H. O'Brien. John Swanson.
Robert Clark. Forrest D. Fischer Herbert V. King. Delbert Brooks J. Walter Coons. Cloyd C. Kalb George Burns. AndrewJ. Barngrover Amon R. Rodgers. Paul D. Simpson Stonewell J. Montgomery Edgar J. Clark. Howard F. Hightowcr. Charles E. Drumm... Guy S. Jeflers. Herman Kemmerer William H. Powell. Henry E. FUcklnger
William E. Cassidy 1st and 3d Wednesday Frank W. Squier 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Wednesday.... Wither C. Markley Belle Plaine Belle Plaine 1st and 3d Wednesday.... fraX. King Republic Harry E.CUff 1st and 3d Monday Mt. Vernon Mitchell Beloit 2d and 4th Wednesday.. Albert F. Albers Doniphan Harry L. Orondorff 1st and 3d Monday Wilson 2d and last Wednesday.. Marion .T. Werhan Bennington Bennington Eay B. Mudd 2d and 4th Tuesday Blue Mound Eussell M. Hamilton... 2d and 4th Monday Blue Eapids Blue Rapids Orvillo W. Croxton 2d and 4th Tuesday Harper *John E. Peters Leavenworth.. 1st and 3d Saturday Hervcy B. Griffith Bonner Springs.. Bonner Springs.. Wyandotte .... 1st and 3d Monday Wednesday or on bef. ®.. .lames Frank Perkins.. Bourbon Friday on or before ®.... Albert O. Caszewski... John J. Mead 1st and 3d Thursday Ford Grand View Charles V. Thomas 1st and 3d Thursday Wilson ; Buffalo 1st and 3d Thursday ,,. Eoy S. Thoman Bunker Hill D. J. McMinn 1st and 3d Thursday Cowley E. David Linde 2d and 4th Tuesday 1st and 3d Wednesday .. William A. Hawks Osage Clarence H. White 2d and 4th Monday Coffey Frank F. Clark 2d and 4th Tuesday Jewell Roy G. E. WiUiams... 1st and 3d Thursday Harvey
70' Carbondale 125 Cawker City 355 Cedar Yale 89
197
182
379 291
366
403 180 286 169 368
145
439 173
Co
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Co
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to tr^ o b
73 283 20 424 134 273 122 411 176 394 418 102 306 295 212 100 113 269 316 13 80 36 57 362
247 258 119
No.
Cuba
Coitnty.
Stated Communications.
Masters.
Cuba
Republic
Hamilton
1st and 3d Wednesday .. Louis Hostinsky 1st and 3d Monday
2d and 4th Tuesday 1st and 3d Saturday .... Alva Miller
1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Tuesdav Sedgwick 2d and 4th Tuesday Crawford Montgomery.. 1st and 3d Saturday ,. 3d Thursday 2d and 4th Wednesday.. 2d and 4th Monday
•William W. Burden Philip H. Trexler.... William W. Malcolm Howard J. Watson Henry McCormick Vernon H. Cash *.Tay B. Bennett Herman A. Praeger Claflin Goorgo AY. Haynes 1st and 3d Tuesday Clay Center Clay 1st Tuesday on or bef. ® *John Shinn Sedgwick 1st and 3d Wednesday .. John Bitter Clifton Clay 2d and 4th Wednesday.. *Harold Croft Greenwood Jolm A. Hawkinson 1st and 3d Thursday Prairie Queen.... Cloud *Barnoy H. Dinkins Pratt •1st and 3d Monday *Georgc W. Watkins 2d and 4th Monday Codell Montgomery.. 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Arthur E. Du Mars Hal B. McDougal St. Thomas Comanche Olive Branch Anderson 2d and 4th Friday Joseph E. Wark Cherokee 1st and 3d Tuesday Cloud
Name of Lodge.
Cotton'd Falls . Council Grove . Council Grove .
Conway Springs
Colby
Codell
Clyde
C\ay Center
Location.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Continued.
,
T. Edward Stafford.
George W. Cleek.
Earl E. Stock.
Obadiah R. Stilwell. Orin 0. Gordon. John R. Forbes.
William G. Haxton. William C. Price. Hugh H. Barr. Ovid J. Goodwin. Signnmd Lehman. Kcuben Sherwood. John T. Reutter. John L. Hamilton. Floyd I. Shoaf. John R. Scnter. Frank L. Seelig. Nathan C. Smith. John F. Randolph. Arthur E. Hornoy. William R. Powell. William L. Marcy. Ray H. Crunijy.
Secretaries.
o
Co
to •-I
8
o
^3
to o
45 127 345 48 97 350 132 12G 422 217 297 146 387 12 413 437
40 92 156 279 222 31 151 138 204 374
; 72
432 375 419 202
Dwiglit
Dwight
Enterprise
Ellis
Elgin Elk City.: Elli Falls Elliliart
St. Bernard
Dodge City
Enterprise
Elkhart
Olive
Edna
De Soto
Cunningham
De Soto
Cunningham
Hoy E. Huffman
2d and 4th Wednesday.. William E. Bechtel... Earnest N. Hannah.. John Keller 1st and 3d Tuesday Wlllard Casey 1st and 3d Tuesday Paul C. Hill., Roy H. Taylor *Harvey F. Miller 1st and 3d Tuesday *Samucl J, Waldorf James E. Mowerey... John H. Clark Saturday on or before ® *John N. Case Cyrus A. Young.... *Harry F. Boyer 2d Thursday. Patric H. Duffy 2d and 4th Friday Walter L. Olson 1st and 3d Thursday
1st and 3d Thursday
Leavenworth.. Saturdav on orbef.®«.... Lloyd Coberly Henry E. Patton 1st and 3d Tuesday Labette J. Irvin Wester 1st and 3d Monday *Clydo W. Veale 1st and 3d Thursday Butler Homer H. Hall Chautauqua .. 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Oliver L. Potter Montgomery.. 2d and 4th Monday Rue L. Slater Elk William R. Fancher.... Morton 1st and 3d Monday Robert C. Reed George Jardin Ellis Joseph H. Leisenring.. Ellsworth 1st and 3d Monday George R. Allan Pottawatomie *Francis E. Hill Lyon 1st and 3d Friday Albert H. Thomas Isfe and 3d Thursday *Williara B. Jones Gray....'. John A. Line 2d and 4th Monday Dickinson
Ford Doniphan Butler
Kingman
Dean G. Erhart. Perry E. Wolfley. Clarence E. Kallenberger. Frank M. Marsh. Leon L. Cousland. John V. Fralick. Lewis W. Davis. Newton'Hill. Bert R. Zimmerman. Orville A. Keeler. Arthur Fauteux. Charles D. Mcllroe. Clarke S. Pool. Charles W. Cleaver. Fred E. Peat. Clarence H. Johnson.
Willis E. Benjamin. John D. Harkness. Howard 15. Houck. Harry P. Dean. Clarence E. McClarron. Charles B. Wiard. George A. Van Dyke. Chester E. Snyder. John H. Schiereck. Richard W. Evans. Frank L. Brenner. Thomas M. Downey. tWilliam Barrett. Cliarles B. Bates. Sidney F. Dasher.
William A. Bradley.
o
^3
tn
>>
o
o to
I
301
65
95 389
392 07
311 g
330
103 124
205 83
76
No.
Geneseo
Garden City .
Ft. Lcavcnwortli
Location.
Geneseo
Constellation
Erie
Name of Lodge.
Stated Communications.
Masters.
Rice
McPhcrson ....
2d and 4th Thursday 1st and 3d Tuesday Earl Y. Parker 1st and 3d Thursday Saturday on or before®.. 2d and 4th Wednesday.. Carl W. McLin
William E. Toland
Monday Wednesday .. Walter C. Cantrall Thursday Thursday
1st and 3d Wednesday ..
3d 3d 3d 3d
*Ray S. Pauley
Pottawatomie 2d and 4th Saturday 1st and 1st and 1st and ' 1st and
Samuel T. MackaU
Greenwood .... 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Tuesday on or before ®.. Crawford Tuesday on or before ®.. 2d and 4th Saturday 2d and 4th Thursday Leavenworth.. 1st and 3d Thursday
Elmer D. Egan *Peter 0. Smith WiUis E. Taylor
2d and 4th "Wednesday.. William R. Henderson Thompson R. Smith 2d and 4th Tuesday John W. Schafer Wabaunsee .... 1st and 3d Monday 2d and 4th Tuesday Greenwood .... 1st and 3d Tuesday
County.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Continued.
Alfred E. Glodliill. Lloyd E. Goodman.
James A. Williams. Joseph R. Million.
Jesse R. Bender. •
Frank A. Gass.
John T. Bartley. Ocoola C. Prather.
tLeo Smith. Ralph P. Wells.
Charles D. Pritchard. Ora S. Wood.
Daniel P. Mills. Edward Grauerholz. I;ee J. White. John D. Adams. Hugh B. Lamb.
Secretaries.
o
o
o o
to o
195 263 398 307 216 35 1 281
34 409
208
226 46 301 185 206 193
93 292 294 430 321 302 381 15 211 296 232 293 248 314 328
Hill City
Havensville
Hartford Harvey ville
Millbrook
Havensville
Hartford Harveyville
Gypsum City ....
Groat Bend
Groat Bend
Greensburg
Glen Elder Golf
Glen Elder God
Girard ..
Doniphan Graham
1st and 3d Monday 2d and 4th Saturday
Washington.... 2d and 4th Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday Greenwood .... 1st and 3d Thursday 2d and 4th Wednesday.. 1st and 3d Wednesday .. 1st and 3d Friday Wabaunsee .... Thursday on or before ® Pottawatomie 1st and 3d Saturday 1st and 3d Tuesday Ellis 1st and 3d Tuesday Monday on or bef. ®= .. Crawford 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Dickinson 2d and 4th Saturday Bourbon
Elk CotTey Ray W. McKenzle Paul H. Huebert Harold Bottomley Fred R. Dorei Owen F. Jones George W. Suggs Archie L. Hodgson Marion E. Henderson, Lota L. McKee James G. Bennett Fred J. Wagner James E. Terhune John A. Attklsson Byron W. Oliver John McNally David R. Smith Paul M. Martin David H. Dyas
Fred D. Mellor William N. Pilcher Walter R. Jones Edgar E. Holston Wade Warner James B. Chenowoth.. John M. Brp E. Earle Bondurant.... George E. MahatCy... Claude Norris Harry C. Stanbargor... Wilham E. Baker 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Leonard L. Snodgrass, 2d arid 4th Friday E. Glen Robison Francis A. King 1st and 3d Tuesday
1st and 3d Wednesday .. 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Wednesday .. 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Tuesday 2d and 4th Friday Monday or or l:iefore ®.. Anderson 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Clay Washington.... 1st and 3d Wednesday ..
Crawford Cloud Mitchell
John J. Muth. John J. Mierau. Arch C. Brown. Harry M. Pfeifler. Horace A. Lee. Charles R. Bayslngor. Ernest E. Hodgson. Stanley R.Hiett. AValtor C. Richardson. Henry H. Beck. Charles W. Reedi r. William M. Pfafl. Jasper N. Chambers. Fred M. Thompson. James V. Routh. Luther L. Hassenpflug. William H. Hargls. Joyce F. Blackman.
Larkin B. Davidson. Sophus Nutland. Eugene F. Pound. Arley H. Fitzwater. Camillo W. Jupo. Charles J. Evans. Valie L. Robertson. Clarence F. Heaton. Frank S. Gerhold. Charles J. Reboul. Allen M. Beverly. Fred A. Northrup. Homer C. Hunt. David D. Stuart. J. Willis Manon.
-J
to o
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to
Hutchinson........
Hutchinson Hutchinson
Junction City....
Kansas City
443 3
Blue Valley
Independence.... Fortitude
Hoyt
Name of Lodge.
Hoyt
Location.
227 360 282 11 441 7
107 38 112
288 352 326 155 348 327 406 29 72 140 445
331 42
No.
Wyandotte....
Hodgeman
Cloud
Masters.
1st and 3d Thursday .... 1st and 3d Thursday . lat and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Tuesday 2d and 4th Wednesday.. 1st and 3d Tuesday .. 2d and 4th Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday Thomas B. Porter, Jr 2d and 4th Tuesday 1st and 3d Tuesday Herbert M. Webb 1st and 3d Monday Charles V. Broughton 1st and 3d Thursday
Stated Communications.
Edward H. Stewart. Clark C. Thomas. John t'. Hoyt.
Ralph B. Call. Charles A. Cocheroll. .loseph M. Wanasek. Alfred A. Peterson, tAlbert E. Smith. Ralph D. Hill. Holly M. Miller. Allyn S. Chandler. Ale.'cander Lee. Culhbert B. Combs. Lester E. Morrow. Oliver M. Anderson. Odie L. Bateman. Otto Painter.
Seretaries.
1st and 3d Tuesday *Ben F. Holmes
Herman A.' Benedix. tJames E. Porter.
Wiliiara B. Ansdell. 1st and 3d Tuesdav Edward D. Hoatherington Carlctnn F. Mellor. 1st and 3d Monday Edwin T. Wilson. 1st and 3d Monday Powell G. Price. 1st and 3d Wednesday .. James H. Berry. 2d and 4th Saturday Charles H. Gove. 1st and 3d Thursday
Montgomery.. 2d and 4th Tuesday . Allen Marshall.... 2d and 4th Saturday
Allen
Elk
Dicliinson
I211sworth
County.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Continued.
^3
o
to
o o
287 152 420 135 181 223 235
2 10 68
330 61 325 260 289 339 49 167 401 6 9
405 338 230 179 278 175
369 438
322 333
271 272
Leonard ville
Lenexa
Leavenwortli Leavenworth Leavenworth
Kansas City Kansas City Kansas City Kansas City Kansas City Kansas City Kensington
Butler
Franklin Leavenworth..
Allen
Garfield
Butler Eiley
Leavenworth.. Leavenworth King Solomon.'... Leavenworth.. Leavenworth.. Smith Oak Cofley
Nine Mile
Medicine Valley
Phillips
"Wyandotte .... Wyandotte.... Wyandotte .... Wyandotte .... R. E. Sherman.. Wyandotte .... Wyandotte ... Smith Kensington Anderson Kingman Mt. Moriah
Armourdale
tRobert W. Radford, tAr(hur H, Strickland, tFrank McDougall, tWilliam E, Saunders, tFred H, Merlel. tClarendon.Greenwood, Jr, Guy R, Currier. Henry L, Woodard, Virgil E, Reed. Otto A. McKiUip. Louis E, Metz, John Garrett, John W, McCormlck, Edwin H, Conner. John E, Garvey. Fred Lake, Francis L, Pierce. Marion McNutt. Thomas J, Boone. Benjamin H. Sooby. I, Roland Ferguson. Clarence B. Birch. Paul A. Lange. tEdward W. Osgood. tElmer McCool. tWinston Z. McKean, James L, Felton, Thomas L, Lewis. George Z. AVhlpple, Percy L, Jones, Robert A, Richmond, Arthur L, Marks, Clarence E, Lundry.
*Harold V. Bumgartner. •Frank P. Strickland, "Jr *V6rnon L. Gregory •George D. Jameson 2d and 4th Saturday •Charles C. McMnrray. 2d and 4Ui Wednesday.. •Joseph Schroeder 2d and 4th Tuesday Eugene C. Wolfe Herbert D. Henderson, 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Owen Riley : 2d and 4th Tuesday •Thomas A. Prather 2d and 4th Wednesday.. James E. Dainton Willis M. Hoag Clare C. Cavin 2d and 4th Thursday Nicholas J. Classen 1st and 3d Monday 1st, 3d and 5th Thursday Russell E. Wooden Donald W. Skinner John R. Hutton 2d and 4th Thursday Loy F. Gerth 2d and 4th Thursday •Joseph R. Williams 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Roy C. Paraniore 2d and 4th Tuesday John Clark Early F. Huddloston John H. Parker 2d Thursday •Carl Jensen 1st and 3d Monday 2d and 4th Thursday .... •Warren E, Akers... 1st and 3d Thursday ,, •Claude C. AtweU..! : 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Earl Guise James W. Wise 1st and 3d Friday Fred H, Naco Saturday on or before®.. William E. Dickerson.. Ross F. Barbo 2d and 4th Thursday John A. Dixon 1st and 3d Saturday ,. 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Elmer E. Swenson
1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Thursday
50
o
>,
o
to o
d
Ci
• 9^
10
371 196 16 87 342 370 28 147 353 91
340 27 220 300 154 397 170 241 219 264 231 26 243 198 153 101 192
No.
Marquette
Maple City Maple Hill Mapleton
Madison Manhattan
Lyndon
Linn Linwood Little Kivcr Logan Long Island Longton Louisburg
Liberal
Leoti
Location.
Maple City Maple Hill
Peace Blue Hill
Long Island
Corner Stone
Looti
Name of Lodge. Stated Communications.
Masters.
McPliorson .... 2d and 4th Tuesday Marshall 1st and 3d Tuesday
Staftord 2d and 4th Monday Greenwood .... 1st and 3d Tuesday Kiloy 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Saturday on or bef. ®=.. "Wabaunsee.... 1st and 3d Thursday Bourbon Saturday on or bef. ®=....
Irvin L. Otto
Clyde R. Odell
*William T. Wise
Clyde C. Gile Dwight K. Cook
G. Donald Dickoy 2d and 4th Monday 1st and 3d Tue-sday 2d and 4th Wednesday.. •Arthur F. Wells 1st and .'id Monday 2d and 4th Thursdav McPherson .... 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Wasliington.... Saturdayonorbefore®.. Leavenworth.. Otto P. Telker 2d and 4th Tuesday Phillips 2d and 4th Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday Phillips Ellc 1st and 3d Thursday Miami 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Fred C. Swisher.... 2d and 4th Thursday
Wichita Cofrev Edwards
County.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Continued.
Stewart Clarke, Jr.
Don C. Campbell.
James H. Bunce. William E. Ekey.
Cecil W. Starr.
Floyd W. Hayes. Howard W. Howsmon.
William C. Dickey. George W. Schlatter. George W. Wells. Earl L. Smith.
Secretaries.
fa
o
o
b
8
O
^3
o
349 390 94 82 191 130
399 201 128 116
238 261
346
373
431 267 245
22 236 255 242
275
256
237
McGracken
Minneapolis
Jefferson McPherson .... 1st and 3d Tuesday Meade Barber 1st Thursday 1st and 3d Thursday , Osage 1st and 3d Thursday Jefferson 1st and 3d Thursday Sumner 1st and 3d Friday Cloud 2d and 4th Wednesday.. 2d and 4th Tuesday Clark 2d and 4th Tuesday Elk Allen..; Saturday on or bef. ®=.... 1st and 3d Tuesday Brown....: 1st and 3d Friday
Crawford
2d and 4th Thursday , 2d and 4th Tuesday 2d and 4th Monday 2d and 4th Wednesday.. Thursday on or before ®
Neosho Falls
Walnut Valley....
Woodson
Republic
1st and 3d Saturday 1st and 3d Monday.. 2d and 4th Wednesday.. 1st and 3d Monday 2d and 4th Tuesday , ,
Mound City . . Mound City McPherson .... 1st and 3d Monday Moundridge Moundridge Wednesday on or bef.®"* Mound Valley.... Wednesday on or bef.®«» Mount Hope , , Mount Hope , ,. Sedgwick 2d and 4th Tuesday Crawford 1st and 3d Wednesday .. 1st and 3d Wednesday .. 2d and 4th Wednesday.. Republic 1st and 3d Thursday
Minneapolis
McPherson Webb Medicine Lodge Delta
McPherson
McCracken
Albert Bever. Hugh F. Richards. James A. Songer. Alex. B. McCuUough. Hayes Floyd.
Elmer B. Johnson.
Edmund W. Buffon
Charles C. Kehy. John I. Edwards. Thomas R. Landos. Oscar A. Brown. Jesse F. Pyle. Homer J. Ferguson. Ormond Hamilton. Albert L. Orr. Raymond Tompkins. Elmer G. Becker. Philip J. Casselman. Jesse E. Shay. Edward W. LenandcrWalter S. Wright. Frank .J. Johns, John J. Boman. Albert Koblor. Ray H. Mickey. Henry A. Strong. Ivy B. Gray. Ralph B. Townsend. William A. McCormick. R. Worth Smilie. Abraham Peters. Sam F. Kimble. Will H. Strnad. Andrew J. Shepard. Oscar E. Hamilton 'Evert A. Ruggels .Irvin M. Speer Kenneth A. Shewell Henry W. Johnson
Christian G. Bertsch Benjamin P. Stoinshouer, Murat H. Powell Harry D. Harrison Charles Fowler Clarence A. Hodges Boise Russell Murphy Ervin E. Lake :... J. Quincy Tompkins Robert E. Anderson John R. Ressler Martin L. Albertson Jesse E. George Otis F. Bolingor Charles H. Wilson Paul Boman... George E. Webber Clyde McKim Charles E. Kenney Edwin P. Durst Frank Watson Luther C. Kissick Charles B. Bray man Moritz P. Fromme William C. Robinson, Jr.. George W. Strnad Charles Schlax ' .•^
o
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to
ft)
37 341
43fi lfi5
14 f.3 18 400 62
ifin
25 19 188 323 141 24
IRfi
Parker
Clay
Kingman
County.
Masters.
Wilhelra P. Gunter 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Wednesday .. 2d and 4th Tuesday *Earl A. Willey
Tliursday on or before ® 2d and 4th "Wednesday.. Hall H. Tliornburgh 1st and 3d Thursday
Stated Communications,'
LooGEBr^Continued.
Parker
Miami Linn
1st and 3d Monday
1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Monday
1st and 3d Monday
Halbert D. Dysart
*Richard F. Kaff William R. Nicholson Thomas M. Copeland
Mountain Slope Oketo Marsliall Olatlie Pottawatomie 1st and 3d Wednesday .. 1st and 3d Wednesday .. William S. Trask 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Osage Valley Osborne 2d and 4th Thursday 1st and 3d Thiirsday Edward W. Clarke 1st and 3d Thursday
Oak Hill
Norton Mount Ziom
New Albany
Name of Lodge.
Overbrook Overland Park .. Overland Park .. Oxford Oxford
Ottawa
Oskaloosa
Oneida Osage City Osawatomle
Oak Hill Oakley Oberlin Oketo Olathe
334 253
319
Nortonville Norwich
Norcatur
New Albany Newton
Location.
26fi
SI 142 43 317 199
No.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND
W. Ralph Warner.
Secretaries.
o
b
o
1—1
162
Phillipsburg
Sabetha
W a l n u t City
Farmers
2d and 4 t h M o n d a y
Nemaha
Rush
Butler
Riley
Riley
George R . Moore.
2d a n d 4 t h Wednesday.. A r t h u r H , g a y n e s
Charles E . M i l l e r . . A b r a m C. E a s t o n .
H a r r y B . Steele H o w a r d R. Turtle..
William J . Cole. Fred J. Newman. James W. Worts. J. C u r t i s B . K n u d s o n . David P. Graham. August E . S c h a t t o n b u r g . Jesse A. P e t t e y . William H . Anderson. Charles E . V a n Vleck. F r a n k U. Kershrier. A r t h u r L. Boyd.
Clarence A. Gordon. Robert F. Hume. Charles A. R u n y o n . W i l h a m E . Cain. E d g a r J. Close. William Dresser. William W . Boine. R o b e r t A. M c P h e o . E a r l T. Gillespie. Charles V. P o r t e r . F r a n k W . Abel. J o h n H . Powers. tOharles W . L o y d . ' O r a n L . Miller. Lawrence P . Millspaugh. E a r l D . Gere. Merit Bachman.
Walter T. Haun Sylvester L. Blair... A r t h u r J. Starr Charles J. Bliss George W . Cole •Arthur J. Grosty F r e d M . Hoffman C. R o d n e y Pringlo J o h n Hilgers, Sr Harry D. Evans J a m e s D . Creviston'. Samuel A. EUerman Daniel A. Z i m m e r m a n . . Archie B . Earlywine Clarence B . Scott Lewis E . C h a m b e r l a i n . Lawrence A. Peacock...
J a m e s H . Wilder Lewis E . Boles George G. N u t t e r Fred H a w k i n s Charley L. Elliott Walter A. Armstrong.. Walter E . Busenbark.. Fred Flesher Adam N . White 2d a n d 4 t h Wednesday.. E d w a r d A. K i r c h Charles F . T u r n e r 1st and 3d S a t u r d a y
2d and 4 t h T h u r s d a y
2d a n d 4 t h M o n d a y 1st and 3d T u e s d a y
1st and 3d T u e s d a y
PhilUps W y a n d o t t e .... 2d and 4 t h S a t u r d a y Crawford 1st a n d 3d T h u r s d a y Meade 2d a n d 4 t h F r i d a y
Pratt R o b Morris Pratt P r e t t y Prairie.... P r e t t y Prairie.... Comanche
Potter Powhattan Pratt
Phillipsburg
304 166 123 442 426 344 • Riley 159 434 111 215 R u s h Center , 177
270 410
168 117 120 415 184 385 187 367 290 88 41 4 363 265 332 428 384
Co
i
o
b'
o
Saffordville
395 60
351 221 284 249 S<?otti:ville 407 136 139 423 39 313 213 417 Sharon Springs.. 54 50 Silver LaliO 214 174 S m i t h Center ... 240 105 157 South H a v e n 388 347 56 252 444- Stanley
Location.
No.
of Lodge.
Allen Cherokee
County.
..
..
..
..
Communicalions.
1st a n d 3d T h u r s d a y i s t a n d 3d M o n d a y
Stated
1st a n d 3d T h u r s d a y 1st a n d 3d W e d n e s d a y 1st a n d 3d M o n d a y Scott 1st a n d ' 3 d W e d n e s d a y Mitchell 2d a n d 4 t h T u e s d a y Scottsville 2d a n d 4 t h M o n d a y C h a u t a u q u a .. 1st a n d 3d T u e s d a y 1st a n d 3d T u e s d a y Sielden 1st a n d 3d Tuesday..1st a n d 3d T h u r s d a y 2d Sat. and 4 t h W e d Severance Doniphan Greenwood .... 2d a n d 4 t h T u e s d a y Twin Grove 1st a n d 3d T h u r s d a y Sharon Springs.. 1st a n d 3d W e d n e s d a y 1st a n d 3d T h u r s d a y 1st a n d 3d T h u r s d a y Mitchell Western S t a r Smith 1st a n d 3d T u e s d a y 2d a n d 4 t h T h u r s d a y Solomon City .... Dickinson 2d a n d 4 t h T u e s d a y 1st a n d 3d T u e s d a y Ford I'st a n d 3d T h u r s d a y Kingman 1st a n d 3d Wednesday 1st a n d 3d M o n d a y Stafford Stafford 1st a n d 3d T h u r s d a y Stanley 1st a n d 3d T u e s d a y
Saffordville
Name
*-Otto E. P e r r y
Ray D. Smith
Malcom M . Hougland
Milford P . Grinstafl
Wiley F . M a t h i s
William H . Cost
Masters.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Continued.
•13
Glenn H . Wagner.
George H . M a r t y .
Floyd W. Carter.
O
Cn
n
to Wilbur H . Cheney.
E l m e r E . Shurtlefl.
o
O
C. Fred L i p k e .
William G. T a y l o r .
Secretaries.
Shawnee
Wa-Keeney
402 148
Tyro
Tyro
Valley Center.... Valley Center.... Sedgwick Valley Falls Valley Falls Marshall
Troy Turner
Troy
Topeka (No.) .... Golden Rule
Tonganoxie
*Harry B. Sutton Vance R. Brendlinger.. John W. Lill Grover C. Urbansky.... Donald F. Burlin Jeptha C. McCoy Lee Austin Voile Frederick C. Larsen..... OlefE H. Jackson Francis M. Carter
•Glenn Muench B. Frank Chalk
William W. Gamine. Lee W. Hinshaw.
Eugene S. Talcott. John C. Burkert. Joseph H. Johnson.
Leslie E. Loxley 1st and 3d Wednesday .. John J. Harman Elton W. Hybskmann.. 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Saturday
Frank Thomason. Arch L. Ramsey. Myron B. Smith.
Edwin C. Eagles. William Heynen. tGeoijge W. McClelland. tEvan Davis. tJames H. Murrell. fBurl J. Snow. E. Francis Armstrong. Napoleon L. Reed. Emil C. Winzer. . Elmer W. Wilson. Frederick R. Frank. Herman S. Tuttle.
Hugo H. Rauschelbach. Bryan H. Kehmeier. James H. Hammltt. Bert Levett. George M. Unger. John J. Miller. Edward R. Dugan. Stanley E. Ra£fety. John W. Coleman. William E. Fatten.
1st and 3d Saturday . .. . James A. Carter Saturday on or before®.. •J. Howard Gibbs 1st and 3d Saturday •Christopher C. Yockey..
Harry Pownall Leavenworth.. 1st Sat. and 3d Thurs Wilham C. Allan 1st and 3d Wednesday .. *Arthur L. Thomas •William IB. Root 2d and 4th Thursday •Collins A. Zimmerman... 1st and 3d Thursday *Blake O. Baird Woodson 1st and 3d Monday Howard Sidney Carlisle.. 1st and 3d Tuesday Iven B. Kullmann Butler 1st Mon. and 2d Sat Hugh D. Kinsey Doniphan •Charles A. Mitchell Wyandotte .... 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Saturday :.... Francis H. Tooloy •Walter J. Gilmore....Montgomery.. 2d and 4th Friday
1st and 3d Wednesday .. Cheyenne Stafford 1st and 3d Monday St. John Pottawatomie.... Pottawatomie 1st and 3d Tuesday Newahcuba 2d and 4th Monday Santa Fe 1st and 3d Thursday ..... Summerfleld Summerfleld 1st and 3d Thursday Sylvan Grove.... Sylvan Grove .... 1st and 3d Tuesday Hamilton 1st and 3d Thursday
364 21 320
435 115 239
149 190 17 51 90 225 121 30 55 425 358 386
171 404 254 52 189 312 354 359 391 309
Co
c«
^ fe;
"q-
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to
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to
ft)
396 377 318 229 75 104 85 64 244 274 150 356 257 305 53 96 380 78 280 250 86 99 303 433 224 412 382 298
No.
Wallace.. Crawford Pottawatomie Washington....
Clay
County.
Doniphan Coirey Black Diamond.. Cherokee
Wakefield
Name of Lodge.
Wilsey
Samaria
White Cliurch.... Wliite City White City White Cloud White Cloud White Water Whiting.. Wichita Wichita Albert Pike Bestor G. Brown Wichita Williamsburg Ellsworth
Comanche
Sedgwick Sedgwick Sedgwick Sedgwick
Doniphan
Wyandotte ....
Wellsville Wellsville Wostmoreland.... Westmoreland.... Pottawatomie Anderson
Washington;
Walnut
Wakoneld
Location.
Masters.
1st and 3d Tuesday *Vcrnon S. Engel Saturday on or before©. Monday on or bcf. ®i= .. Monday on or before ®.. Elva T. Robison 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Charles F. Blanchard 2d and 4th Thursday 1st and 3d Thursday l?t and 3d Saturday 1st and 3d Tuesday 2d and 4th Thursday 2d and 4th Monday 1st and 3d Monday 2d and 4th Monday Tuesday on or before®.. Saturday on or bef.®».... 1st and 3d Saturday *Frank W. WahUn 2d and 4th Friday . 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Koy M. Green Elsworth F . Lowther Tuesday on or bef. ®=.... 2d and 4th Tueidav 1st and 3d Monday "Fred W. Smith 2d and 4th Wednesday.. 2d and 4th Thursday 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Monda,y 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Andy D. Klotz
Stated Communica.ions.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Concluded.
Roger C. Tompkins. Herman C. Walter.
tLyle H. Plant.
tWilliam H. McCoin. tJosoph L. Kirk.
Charles H. Potter. William I. Thompson. Claude J. Wood.
William D. Starling.
Secretaries.
to
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MASTERS. No. *Address. 225- -1114 Taylor St. 239- -Chanuto. 247- -Ravmond. 204- -R. F. D. No. 4. 271- -29 S. 10th St. 272- -1875 Armstrong Ave. 273- -Oonway Sprlng.s. 303- -Scottish Rite Temple. 308- -Raymond. 322- -2501 Metropolitan Ave. 327- -Elmont. 333- -R. F. D. No. 5. 335- -Council Grove. 342- -Dexter. 347- -Cleveland. 352- -Tribune. 365- -Leavenworth.R.F.D. No. 3. 309- -552 Okland Ave. 385- -Bethel. 386- -Wayside. 387- -Delia. 392- -Flush. 394- -Sawyer. 396- - B . F. D. No. 2. 402- -Carbondale, R. F. D. 408- -Radley. 411- -Fall River, R. F. D. No. 1. 413- -Cimarron. 418- -Plainiille. 425- -Kansas City, R. F. D. No. 1. Box 155. 433- -802 S. Water. 438- -1730 N 26th St. 444- -StiUwelL
SECRETARIES. No. ^Address. 2—Box 125. 3—Masonic Temple. 10—420 Delaware St. 16—K. S. A. C . Box 86. 17—Masonic Temple. 47—Bronson, R. F. D No. 4. 50—Topeka, R. F. D No. 6. 51—1400 Topeka Ave 68—307 Miami St. 86—312 Union Nat'l Bk. Bldg. 90—1228 N. Harrison St, 96—736 Ray St., Kansas City. 99—P. O. Box 255. 109—R. F. D. No. 2. 131—R. F. D. No. 3.
SPECIAL ADDRESSES. SECRETARIES. No. t Address. 138—R. F. D. 225—Room B, Masonic Temple. 271—219 N. 20th St. 272—749 Washington Blvd. 303—Scottish Rite Templo. 322—1029 S. 29th St. 333—3944 Hudson Rd. 351—West Mineral. 352—Tribune. 363—Hiawatha, 363— R. F. D. No. 4. 365—Leavenworth. R.F.D. No. 3 369—3021 N. 22nd St. 433—F. O. Box 963. 438—604 Minnesota Ave.
Clare S. Lockvvood.
2d and 4th Wednesday.. Rov B. Harder
Kingman
Zenda Zenda esAnd two weeks tliereafter.
378
MASTERS. . No. * Address. 2—909 North Sth St. 3—323 North 21st St. 10—004 Cherokee St. 17—001 Swygart. 20—Holton. 23—R. F. D. No. 3. 25—Liberty, Nebraska. 31—Atcliison, R. P. D. No. G. 47—Mapleton. R. F. D. No. 1. 48-—Farmington. 49—Leavenworth,R.F.D.No. 6. 50—R. F. D. No. 11. 51—2808 Ohio Ave. 53—Netawaka, R. F. D. No. 1. 54—Morriam. 62-^Carbondale. 68—^533 Miclilgau Ave. 71—Columbus, R. F . D . No. 7. 81—Fall River. 86—215 S. Hydraulic Ave. 90—825 N. Jackson St. 92—Fort Scott, R. F. D. No. 3. 96—Bethel. 99—1352 S. Water. 112—Bigolow. 115—Redfleld. 124—Arcadia. 131—R. F. D. No. 1. 138—Topeka. 156—Cambridge. 171—R. F. D. No. 4. 17&—Oflerle. ' 188—Wheaton. 220—Bolpre.
Fred C. Cannady.
1st and 3d Wednesday .. Otis F. Hershncr
tJohn H. Freel.
Saturday on or before®.. *01Iio L. Bccliwith
Woodson
Winfleld
J. Harry Kiley. Mauritz Peterson. David O. Watts.
Yates Center
Winneld
Thursday on or before ® LeRoy Martin Chester 0. Cochran McPherson .... 1st and 3d Saturday Clarence B. Norton 1st and 3d Thursday
144
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Wm. I. Stuart... Owen J. Wood.. .^, Hugh P. Farrclly.' Ben S. Paulen John McCuilagh.. Richard E. Bird.. Elmer F. Strain.. Charles A. Loucks
1918 Topcka. 1919 Wichita. §1920 Topcka. 1921 Wichita 1022 Topcka. 1923 Wichita 1924 Topcka. 1926 Wichita
Owen J. Wood... Hugh P. Farrclly. Ben S. Paulcn John McCuilagh.. *John A. FerreU Elmer F. Strain.. Charles A. Loucks John W. Neilson..
Hugh P. Farrelly.... Ben S. Paulen John McCuilagh.. . . *.Iohn A. Fcrrell Richard E. Bird Charles A. Loucks... John W. Neilson.... Charles N. Fowler...
Ben S. Paulen John McCuilagh.. Mohn A. Fcrrell Richard E. Bird.. Elmer F. Strain.., John W. Neilson. . "Charles N. Fowler Ferris M.Hill....
Gr. Senior Warden. Gr. Junior Warden.
W. F. March W. F. March W. F. March W. F. March W. F. March W. F. March W. F. March W. F March
Grand Treasurer.
•Deceased. f^imittcd and removed from this jurisdiction. HSuspcnded. Jln 1879 the time for holding the Annual Communication was changed from October to February, and no Communication wag held in 1880. §Annual Communication postponed from February 18-19, 1920, to March 17-18, 1920, account of influenza. "Clayton Lehman elected, but declined to accept and Charles N. Fowler was appointed.
M:.W:.Gr.
Dal4!. Place of Meeting.
Master. Deputy Gr. Master.
ELECTIVE GRAND OFFICERS FROM ORGANIZATION TO PRESENT TIME—Continued.
All-crt K. Witeon. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson, Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. .Mbcrt K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson.
Grand Secretary.
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GRAND
1924-25.
LODGE
OF
221
KANSAS.
ALPHABETICAL LIST OF LODGES. Name. Acacia Active Adams Advance Albert Pike Alden Allen Alma Alplia Altamont Alta Vista Altoona Americus Anclior Antliem Anthony Apollo Arcadia Arcana Argonia Arma Armourdale Ashland Ashlar Attica Atwood Auburn Avon Axtell
No. 9 158 63 114 303 308 335 161 282 69 357 118 109 224 284 200 297 329 31 285 408 271 277 344 262 164 32 305 234
Location. Lawrence. Atchison. Oswego. Florence. "Wichita. Alden. Allen. Alma. Jetmore. Altamont. Alta Vista. Altoona. Americus. Williamsburg. Scott City. Anthony. Ellis. Arcadia. Doniphan. Argonia. Arma. Kansas City. Ashland. Riley. Attica. Atwood. Auburn. Westphalia. Axtell.
Barney ....279 Baxter 71 Beattle 259 Beaumont 439 Belle Plaine 173 Belleville 129 Bendena 440 Benedict 403 Benevolent 98 Ben Hur 322 Bennington 180 Bestor G. Brown..433 Beulah 291 Black Diamond. .274 Blue Hill 198 Blue Rapids 169 Blue Valley 112 Boling 365 Bonner Springs ...366 Bourbon 268 Brainerd 280 Brookville 209 Buffalo 379 Burdick 429 Burlington 66 Burr Oak 178 Biu-rton 182
Dighton. Baxter Springs. Beattie. Beaumont. Belle Plaine. Belleville. Bendena. Benedict. Abilene. Kansas City. Bennington. Wichita. Bunker Hill. Weir. Lucas. Blue Rapids. Irving. Boling. Bonner Springs. Bronson. White Water. Brookville. Buffalo. Burdick. Burlington. Burr Oak. Burrton.
Cable Caney Canopy Canton Carbondale Carson Cawker City Cedar Center Charity Chase Chautauqua Cherokee Cherryvale Chetopa
Arlington. Caney. Grenola. Canton. Carbondale. Elk City. Cawker City. Chanute. Marion. Hazelton. Chase. Cedar Vale. Cherokee. C3herryvale. Chetopa.
.....299 324 248 197 70 132 125 103 147 263 '..247 355 119 137 73
Natne. Circleville Claflin Clay Center Clifton Climax Clinton Coats CodoU Comanche Constellation Coolidge Corinthian Corner Stone Cosmos Council Grove Coyville Crescent Cuba Cunningham Cyrus DeerfleUl Delavan Delaware Delia Delphian Delphos....; Delta Denison De Soto Devon Dexter Dlrigo Doric Douglass Dover Downs Dwight
No. 20 424 134 122 411 233 394 418 295 95 316 79 219 278 36 57 133 362 427 288 432 375 96 419 44 202 77 372 40 92 156 226 83 151 138 204 374
Location. Circleville. Claflin. Clay Center. Clifton. Climax. Burden. Coats. Codell. Coldwater. Predonia. Coolidge. Burlingame. Little River. Kiowa. Council Grove. Coyville. Arkansas City. Cuba. Cunningham. Hope. Deerfleld. Delavan. White Church. Delia. Garnett. Delphos. Medicine Lodge. Denison. De Soto. Devon. Dexter. Haddam. Eudora. Douglass. Dover. Downs. Dwight.
Easton •Edna Eldora Elkhart EUinwood Ellsworth Emerald Emin'Mice; Emmett Emporia Ensign Enterprise Equity Erie Euclid Eureka Excelsior
45 345 28 422 217 146 289 205 387 12 413 437 131 76 101 88 115
Eastoii. Edna. Mapleton. Elkhart. EUinwood. Ellsworth. Lakin. Eskridge. Emmett. Emporia. Ensign. Enterprise. Fontana. Erie. Lyndon. Pleasanton. Uniontown.
Fargo Farmers Fidelity. Formoso Fortitude Fostoria Frankfort Fraternal Frederick Freeport Friendship Frontier Fulton
300 166 106 336 107 392 67 170 337 389 208 104 210
Liberal. Randolph. Eureka. Formoso. Independence. Fostoria. Frankfort. Linn. Frederick. .Freeport. Haven. Washington. Fulton.
Galena Galva Gardner
194 251 65
Galena. Galva. Gardner.
222 Name. Garfield Gaylord Geneseo Gilead Girard Glasco Glen Elder Godfrey Gofl Golden Rule Goodland; Gove City Grainfleld Grand View Great Bend Greeley Greenleaf Greenwood Gypsum City
PROCEEDINGS No. 235 183 361 144 93 292 294 124 430 90 321 302 381 376 15 211 232 163 328
Location. Leonard ville. Gaylord. Geneseo. Yates Center. Girard. Glasco. Glen Elder. Farlington. Gofl. North Topeka. Goodland. Gove. Grainfleld. Bucklln. Great Bend. Greeley. Greenleaf. Fall River'. Gypsum.
Halcyon ...120 Peabody. Halstead 46 Halstead. Hamilton 301 Hamilton. Hamlin 185 Hamlin. Hancock 311 Ft. Leavenworth. Harmony 94 Neodesha. Harper 206 Harper. Hartford .....193 Hartford. Harveyville 421 Harveyville. Haven 157 South Haven. HavensviUe 34 Havensvllle. Haviland 409 Haviland. Hays.... 195 Hays. Hebron 314 Gridley. Henri 190 Tonganoxie. Hepler 398 Hepler. Hesperian I l l Eossville. Hlattville 216 Hiattville. Hiawatha 35 Hiawatha. Highland 296' Green. Hiram 68 Leavenworth. Hoisington 331 Hoisington. Holton 42 Holton. Holyrood 343 Holyrood. Home 89 Contralia. Hope 155 Howard. Horace 352 Horace. Horton 326 Horton. Hoxie 348 Hoxie. Hoyt 327 Hoyt. Hugoton 406 Hugoton. Huron 72 Huron. Hutcliinson 445 Hutcliinson. Ionic 254 St. John, lola 38 lola. Jamestown... 227 Jamestown. Jefferson 84 Winchester. Jennings 360 Jennings. Jewell 11 Jewell. Johnson 441 Johnson. Joppa 223 Leon. Kansas 307 Heriiigton. Kanorado 443 •Kanorado. Kaw 272 Kansas City. Kensington 405 Kensington. Keystone 102 Coffeyville. Kickapoo 4 Potter. Kilwinning 265 Pratt. Kincaid 338 Kincaid. King David 416 Chanute. King Solomon 10 Leavenworth. Kiowa 293 Greensburg. Klrwln 175 Kirwin. LaCrosse 330 LaCrosse. LaCygne 61 LaCygne.
OF THE
February,
Location. Name. No. Lafayette 16 Manhattan. LaHarpe 325 LaHarpe. Lake 50 Silver Lake. Landmark 218 Mound Valley. ' Lane 339 Lane. Lamed 167 Lamed. Latham ....401 Latham. Lawrence 6 Lawrence. Leavenworth 2 Leavenworth. Lebanon '. 221 Scandia. Lebo 152 Lebo. Lecompton 420 Lecompton. Lenexa 135 Lenexa. Lenora 181 Lenora. Leoti 340 Leoti. Lewis 220 Lewis. Lincoln 154 Lincoln. Lindsborg 397 Lindsborg. Lin wood 241 Linwood. Logan 264 Logan. Long Island 231 Long Island. Longton 26 Longton. Lotus ; 286 Blue Mound. Luray 153 Luray. Lyra 266 McLouth. Mackey 48 MacksvlUe 371 Madison 196 Mankato 87 Maple City 342 Maple Hill 370 Marmaton .' 245 Marquette 353 MarysviUe .-. 91 Mayetta 393 McCracken 58 McDonald 383 McKiniey 41 McPherson 172 Medicine Valley....260 Melody ;400 Melvern 22 Memphis 108 Meriden 236 Meridian 126 Milan '..255 Millbrook 281 Miltonvale 242 Minneapolis 143 Minneola 431 Mistletoe 269 Moline 267 Morland 414 Morrill 373 Morton 258 Mound City 33 Moundridge 346 Mountain Slope...186 Mount Hope 238 Mount Moriah 179 Mount Vernon 145 Mount Zion 266 Mulberry 261. Mullinville 399 Mulvane 201 Munden 128 Muscotah 116 Mystic Tie 74 Naphtali Narka Natoma Nemaha Neosho Newahcuba New Albany
EfiBngham. Macksvllle. Madison. Mankato. Maple City. Maple Hill. Moran. Marquette. MarysviUe. Mayetta. McCracken. McDonald. Pomona. McPherson. Lake Oity. Ottawa. Melvern. Garland. Meriden. Elk Falls. Milan. Hill Oity. Miltonvale. Minneapolis. Minneola. Conway Springs. Moline. Morland. Morrill. Cheney. Mound City. Moundridge. Oberlin. Mount Hope. Kinsley. Beloit. Nortonvllle. Mulberry. Mullinville. Mulvane. Munden. Muscotah. Augusta.
310 Almena. 349 Narka. 390 Natoma. 13 Corning. 27 Le Roy. 189 Stockton. 81 New Albany.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE OF
Name. No. Location. Newton 142 N e w t o n . Niclcerson 4 3 Niclrerson. N i n e Mile 49 L a n s i n g . Ninnescah 230 Kingman. Norcatur 317 N o r c a t u r . Norton 199 N o r t o n . Norwich 319 N o r w i c h . Oali 287 L e b a n o n . O a k Hill 334 O a k Hill. Oakley 253 O a k l e y . Occidental 207 A l t o n . Oketo 25 O k e t o . Olathe 19 O l a t h e . Olive 350 E l g i n . Olive B r a n c h 212 C o l o n y . Onaga 188 O n a g a . Oneida 323 O n e i d a . Orient 51 T o p e k a . Osage Valley 24 O s a w a t o m i e . Oskaloosa 14 Oskaloosa. Ottawa 18 O t t a w a . Overland Park 436 O v e r l a n d P a r k . Oxford 165 Oxford. Pacific 29 H u m b o l d t . Palestine 127 E d g e r t o n . Palmyra 23 B a l d w i n . Paola 37 P a o l a . Paradise 290 Plainville. Parker 341 P a r k e r . Parkerville 168 P a r k e r v i l l e . Parsons 117. P a r s o n s . Patmos.... 97 E l D o r a d o . Peace 243 L o u i s b u r g . Perry 415 P e r r y . Phillipsburg 184 P h i l l i p s b u r g . Piper 385 P i p e r . Pittsbiu-g 187 P i t t s b u r g . Plains 367 ' P l a i n s . Polar Star 130 N e t a w a k a . Pottawatomie 52 St: M a r y s . Powhattan 363 P o w h a t t a n . P r a i r i e Queen 176 C l y d e . Preston 283 C i m a r r o n . ' P r e t t y Prairie 428 P r e t t y P r a i r i e . Protection 384 P r o t e c t i o n . Prudence 100 C o l u m b u s . Quenemo 270 Q u e n e m o . Qulnter 410 Q u i n t e r . Randall 304 R a n d a l l . Reno 140 H u t c h i n s o n . Republic 123 R e p u b l i c . Rexford 442 Rexford. Richmond 426 R i c h m o n d . Ridgeway 62 Ovorbrook. Rising Sun 8 F o r t Scott. Robinson 159 R o b i n s o n . Rob Morris 332 P r e s t o n . R. E. Sherman 369 K a n s a s C i t y . Rosalia 433 Rosalia. Rosedale 333 K a n s a s C i t y . Royal 192 L y o n s . Russell 177 Russell. Sabetha 162 S a b e t h a . Saffordville 395 Saffordville. Salem 228 E s b o n . Salina 60 Salina. Saltville 59 B a r n a r d . Samaria 298 Wilson. Santa Fe 312 S u b l e t t e . Saqui 160 O s b o r n e . Satanta 446 S a t a n t a . Scammon 351 S c a m m o n . Scottsville 249 Scottsville. Scranton ^407 Scran t o n . Sedgwick 139 Sedgwick. Selden : 423 Selden. Seneca 39 Seneca. Severance 313 Severance. S h a r o n Springs . . . 4 1 7 S h a r o n Springs.
223
KANSAS.
Name. Shawnee Signal Siloam.... Sincerity Smithton Soldier Solomon C i t y Spearville Spivey Spring Hill St. B e r n a r d Saint Francis St. J o h n ' s St. T h o m a s Stafford Stanley.. Sterling Stohrville Sumner Summerfleld Simflower Sutton Sylvan Grove Sylvia Syracuse
No. 54 141 225 241 1 240 105 388 347 56 222 404 113 306 252 444 171 368 203 354 86 85 359 391 309
Location. Shawnee. Osage C i t y . Topeka. Simpson. Hlgliland. Soldier. Solomon. Spearville. Spivey. Spring Hill. Dodge City. Saint Francis. Concordia. Colby. Stafford. Stanley. Sterhng. Bluff C i t y . Caldwell. Summerfleld. Wichita. Waterville. Sylvan Grove. Sylvia. Syracuse.
Temple Thayer Topeka Towanda Troy Turner Turon Tuscan Twin Grove Tyrian Tyro
237 149 17 30 55 425 358 82 213 246 386
McCune. Thayer. Topeka. Towanda. Troy. Turner. Turon. Neosho Falls. Severy. Garden City. Tyro.
Ulysses Union Unity Urbana
435 7 273 239
Ulysses. Junction City. Clearwater. Urbana.
Valley C e n t e r Valley Falls VermiUlon Vesper Virainla Vulcan
364 21 320 136 315 229
Valley C e n t e r . Valley F a l l s . Vermillion. Sedan. Savonburg. Walnut.
Wakarusa "VVa-Keeney Wakefield Waldron Wallace W a l n u t City W a l n u t Valley Wamego Washington Wathena Waverly Webb Wellington Wellsville Western Star West Gate Westmoreland Wetmore White City W h i t e Cloud Whiting Wichita Wllmore Wilsey Windom Winfleld Woodson Wyandotte Xenia Zenda Zeredatha
402 148 396 377 318 215, 191 75 5 64 244 275 150 356 174 438 257 53* 380 78 250 99 412 382 276 110 121 3 47 378 80
Wakarusa. Wa-Keeney. Wakefield. Waldron. Wallace. Rush Center. Ness City. Wamego. Atchison. Wathena. Waverly. Meade. Wellington. Wellsville. Smith Center. Kansas City. ' Westmoreland. Wetmore. White City. White Cloud. Whiting. Wichita. Wilmore. Wilsey. Windom. Winfleld. Toronto. Kansas City. Xenia. Zenda. C o t t o n w o o d Falls.
224
PROCEEDINGS
OF
THE
February,
LIST OF LODGES BY COUNTIES.
Allen
Name.
Location.
County.
29 38 325 246 315
lola
. -^ -
pa--
212 44 211 338 305
1^^
158 48 . 72 4 IIG
Potter Muscotah
Claflin Great Bend Hoisington
Delta
263 278 260 77
Claflin Ellin wood Hoisinf^ton
424 217 15 331 268 92 8 210 108 216 28 115 47
Fort Scott
Robinson
185 35 326 373 363 159
White Water
74 439 151 97 401 223 434 30 280
Butler
ifeai 'k
Cheyenne
No.
Saffordville
SO 395
Olive
355 350 136
Weir
Black Diamond.
71 100 194 351 274
Saint Francis
Saint Francis
404
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE OF KANSAS.
.
225
L I S T OF LODGES BY COUNTIES—Continued. County.
Location.
Name.
No.
Clark..
Minneola.. Ashland....
Minneola.. Ashland....
Clay...
Clay Center.. Clifton Green Oak Hill Wakefield
Clay Center.. Clifton Highland Oak Hill Wakefield
431 277 134 122 296 334 396
Cloud..
Clyde ; Concordia... Glasco Jamestown.. Miltonvale..
Prairie Queen.. St. John's Glasco Jamestown Miltonvale
176 113 292 227 242
Coffey.,
Burlington.. Gridley Lebo LeRoy Waverly
Burlington Hebron Lebo Neosho Waverly
66 314 152 27 244
Comanclie..
Cold water.. Protection.. Wilmore
Comanche.. Protection.. Wilmore
295 384 412
Cowley..
Arkansas City.. Burden Dexter Maple City Winfleld
Crescent Clinton Dexter Maple City.. Winfleld
133 233 156 342 110
Crawford..
Arcadia Arraa Cherokee.... Farlington.. Girard Hepler McCune Mulberry.... Pittsburg.... Walnut
Arcadia Arma Cherokee.. Godfrey..., Girard Hepler Temple Mulberry.. Pittsburg.. Vulcan
329 408 119 124 93 398 237 261 187 229
Decatur..
Jennings... Oberlin Norcatur..
Jennings Mountain Slope.. Norcatur
360 186 317
Dickinson..
Abilene Enterprise.. Herington.. Hope Solomon
Benevolent Enterprise Kansas Cyrus Solomon City..
98 437 307 288 105
Doniphan..
Bendena Doniphan Highland Severance Troy Wathena White Cloud.
Bendena Arcana Smithton Severance Troy Wathena White Cloud..
440 31 1 313 55 64 78
Douglas..
Baldwin Eudora Lawrence Lawrence Lecompton..
Palmyra... Doric Lawrence Acacia Lecompton
23 83 6 9 420
Edwards..
Kinsley.. Lewis
Mt. Moriah.. Lewis
179 220
226
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
LIST OF LODGES BY COUNTIES—Continued.
County.
Location.
Name.
No.
Elk
Elk^alls
126 248 155 26 267
Ellis
Ellis
297 195
Ellsworth
146 343 298
Garden City
246
Ford
376 222 388
Franklin
339 18 400 41 426 356 224
Wellsville
AVellsville
7
Gove '.
302 381 410
Hill City
281 414
Grant Gray
435 283 413 352
Fall River
Fidelity
411 106 163 196 213 301 316 309
Bluff City
200 262 368 389 206 377 182 46 142 139
Haskell
446 312
Jetmore
282
1924-25.
GRAND LODGE OF
227
KANSAS.
LIST OF LODGES BY COUNTIES—Continued. Location.
County.
Name.
•
No. 20 419 372 42 327 393 130 240 250
Hoyt
236 266 14 256 21 84 415 178 228 336 11 87 304 De Soto
:
.• De Soto
Olathe
Olathe
Spring Hill
Spring Hill
40 127 65 135 19 436 54 56 444 432 289 427 230 319 347 378 293 409 399 69 73 345 218 63 117 279 365 45 311 49 2 10 68 241 190
Fort Leavenworth
Sylvan. Grove
-. Sylvan Grove
59 154 359
228
PROCEEDINGS
OF
THE
February;
LIST OP LODGES BY COUNTIES—Continued. County.
Location.
Name.
No.
Linn..
Blue Mound.. La Cygne Mound City.. Parker Pleasanton
Lotus La Cygne Mound City... Parker Eureka
286 61 33 341 88
Logan..
Oakley..
Oakley..
253
Lyon...
Allen Amerlcus Emporia Hartford
Allen Americus.. Emporia... Hartford...
335 109 12 193
Marion..
Florence.. Marion.... Peabody..
Advance.. Center Halcyon..
114 147 120
MarsliaU..
Axtell Beattie Blue Rapids.. Frankfort Irving Marysville Oketo Summerfleld. Vermillion Waterville
Axtell Beattie Blue Rapids.. Frankfort Blue Valley... Marysville Oketo Summerfleld.. Vermillion Sutton
234 259 169 67 112 91 25 354 320 85
McPherson..
Canton Galva McPherson... Moundrjdge.. Windom Marquette Lindsborg
Canton Galva McPherson.... Moundridge.. "Windom Marquette Lindsborg
197 251 172 346 276 358 397
Meade..
Meade.. Plains...
Webb.. Plains..
275 367
Miami..
Fontana Loulsburg Osawatomie.. Paola
Equity Peace Osage Valley.. Paola
131 243 24 37
Mitchell..
Beloit Oawker City., Glen Elder Simpson Scottsvllle
Mt. Vernon.... Cawker City.. Glen Elder Sincerity Scottsville
145 125 294 214 249
Montgomery..
Caney Cherryvale Coffeyvllle Elk City Independence.. Tyro
Caney.. Cherryvale.. Keystone Carson Fortitude Tyro
324 137 102 132 107 386
Morris..
Burdick Council Grove.. Delavan Dwight Parkerville White City Wilsey :..
Burdick Council Grove.. Delavan Dwight Parkerville White City Wilsey
429 36 375 374 168 380 382
Morton..
Elkhart
Elkhart,
1924-25.
GRAND LODGE OF
22»
KANSAS.
LIST OF LODGES BY CouNTiES^Cowiinwed. Location.
County.
Goff
...
Erie
Name.
Gofif
Erie "Walnut Valley
No, 89 IS 430 323 162 39 53 103 415 7d 149 239 191 310 181 199.
Euclid
7^ 70 101 22 141 62 270 407 207 204 390 160 180 202 143 167
Phillips
176 264 231 184 387 392 34 188 52 76 257
Pratt
394 265 332
Pratt
164 383 Beno
Cable Hutchinson
Hutchinson
Pretty Prairie Turon
299 208 140 446 43 428 391 358
230
•
PROCEEDINGS
February,
OF THE
LIST OF LODGES BY COUNTIES—Continued. County.
Location.
Name.
Republic
129 362 128 349 123 221
Republic... Rice
Sterling Garfield
Riley Riley Codell
Bunker Hill
308 247 337 361 219 192 171
.235 16 166 344
Codell
290 189 418
Walnut City
330 58 215
Blue Hill
Saline Scott
No,
291 198 153 177 209 328 .60
Scott City
Wichita
284
; ..
Albert Pike
258 273 238 364 86 99 303 433 300 32 138 111 50 17 51 90 225 402
Topel^a (Nortli)
348 423 321 443
Smith Smitli Center
Oak Western Star
183 405 287 174
1924-25.
GRAND LODGE OF
231
KANSAS.
L I S T OF LODGES BY COUNTIES—Continued. Name.
Location.
County.
Stafford
Stafford St. J o h n
. . . . . . .
Stafford
No. 371 252 254 441 406
Belle P l a i n e
Caldwell Oxford..
.'
Colby
St. T h o m a s
285 173 203 269 255 201 165 157 150 306 442 148
Trego
M a p l e Hill
M a p l e Hill
161 357 205 421 370 318 417 232 226 170 104
Wichita
340
" .
"Wilson Buflfalo
Woodson
Buffalo
82 121 144
Toronto
Wyandotte
Wyandotte
Roger E . S h e r m a n West Gate White Church
118 403 379 57 95 94 81
366 3 271 272 322 333 369 438 385 425 96
Big Springs
Aubry
Allen
Location.
Wheaton
Allen
Location.
Englevale
Shawnee
Sumner
County.
Allen
Name.
Pottawatomie.. Wheaton
McPherson
Leavenworth...
1870
1868 1858
1860
1806
Disp. IM'd.
1887 1898 1904
1881 1884
1900
1859
Disp. Bev'k'd.
Feb. Oct. Feb. Feb. Oct. Oct.
1891 1867 1891 1887 1859 1860
9 Oct. 19, 1857
15. 1S61
18, 15, IS. 16, IS, 16,
Chartered.
37 O r t
335 62 253 285 26 30
No.
Remarks.
J a n . 3 , 1912 Oct. 14,. 1861 Oct. 2 1 , 1863
Oct. 2 1 . 1869
Charter Surrendered.
1, 1923 j Consolidated with Mt. Hope 1 Lodge N o . 238, Feb. 2 , 1 8 9 4 .
Remarks.
( D r o p p e d from roll account or^ganizaticn Grand Lodge of / Colorado in 1862. I Dispensation issued as Big Oct. 16, "l867 5 Springs Lodge, b u t name after( w a r d s changed t o Shawnee.
Mar.
Charier Revoked.
j N o meetings were held, a n d dispensation was returned ! to t h e G r a n d M a s t e r .
(.Auraria Lodge, it was deemed best t o h a v e but one lodge.
(•Dispensation was r e t u r n e d to G r a n d M a s t e r , w l t h a s t a t e -
1 M a s t e r r e p o r t e d t h a t no meetings had been held, and \ owing to absence of m e m b e r s , a n d need of suitable room, (dispensation was r e t u r n e d .
CHARTERED LODGES (DEFUNCT.)
1885 1896 1903
ises
1899 1868 1857 1878 1884
1860
1857,
Leavenworthr...
!. 1923
Disp. Issued.
1863
Allen
Name.
Coffey
County.
DEFUNCT LODGES.
LODGES UNDER DISPENSATION. BUT NEVER CHARTERED.
H
"^
O
In
•Pl
o o
ft
05
.
..
20. 17, 19, 21, 18, 18, 21. 20, 21, 18, 21,
46 Oct. 17, 1865
67 Oct. 20, 1868 301 F e b . 15, 1888
Ida
Leavenworth.... Higli Prairie Ida
Feb. Feb. Oct. Oct.
15, 22, 18, 18,
1882 1S83 1859 1876
34 Oct. 2 1 , 1862
69 216 25 170
34 Oct. 16, 1860
Star
Charter. Surrendered.
Oct. 18,- 1876
Oct. 21, 1863
15, 1879 21, 18C3 16, 1910
Oct. 17, 1877
M a y 9, 1919 Dec. 17. 1883 Dec. 17. 1892 Dec. 17. 1881
("Consolidated with W e s t m o r e ^ l a n d Lodge N o . 257, M a y 18. (1894.
licmarks.
with
with
Hal: y o n
Godfrey
with
Bourbon
(toLGreat Light. Oct. 2 0 . 1869.
fLocationchangedtoSilverLake.
( r a d o i n 1862.
( t o Rising Sun Lodge N o . 8. ( D r o p p e d from roll account or-^ganization G r a n d Lodge I n d . 1 Ter. in 1878. ( D r o p p e d from roll account o r -
f Consolidated
I Consolidated w i t h Bluff C i t y
(supposed t o b e in Jackson.
( R e c o r d s fail t o show county in
(Consolidated
J Consolidated
18. 1897 19. 1903 ( C h a r t e r issued direct b y G r a n d
Charter, lievoked.
1889 Feb. 1898 Feb. 1890 Sept. 2 1 , 1890 1874 1876 — . 1883 1886 .Ian. 17. 1894 1874 1870 M a r . 22, 1879 1874 Oct. 1S5S Oct. 1S94 Feb.
Golden C i t y
Golden City..
Feb. Feb. Feb. Oct. Oct. Feb. Oct. Oct. Oct. Of.t. Feb.
20 Oct. 16. 1860
313 325 325 153 164 164 14S 87 152 12 353
122 Oct. 16, 1872
Washington
Chartered.
337 F e b . 18. 1S91
No.
F o r t Gibson
F o r t Scott
Lily
Frankfort Freeport
Cato
Bluff City Bluff C i t y
Name.
Elk Creels:
Wyandotte 13reckcnrid;Ae....
C h a u t a u q u a .... C h a u t a u q u a .... Butler
Ford
Pottawatomie..
County.
E l k City..,.
Clifford
Bluff City Bluff C i t y Buclilin Cato....
Location.
CHARTERED LODGES (DEFUNCT)—Continued.
>
i-
CO
02
to
o b n ta o
•fa
Paris Perryville Pittsburg
Paola
Osawatomle
Olivet
Monticello
Leavenworth
Paris Perry Owen A. B a s s e t t
22 Oct. 2 1 , 52 Oct. 16, 367 F e b . 17.
69 Oct. 2 1 ,
11 Oct. 18,
128 Oct. 17,
16, 20, 20, 18,
Lincoln
Coffey
Feb. Feb. Oct. Oct.
69 Oct. 2 1 ,
Ottumwa..
Franklin
30 363 92 24
30 Oct. 16,
Miami
Ottawa
Mln.mi
Valley
Valley Astra Mission Osage Valley..
Jefferson Crawford
16. 17, 19, 16, 17, 21,
36 Oct. 15,
Oct. Feb. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct.
231 F e b . 20,
Johnson
180 192 86 43 58 77
5, 1888
1, 1896
Oct. 17, 1865
( F i r s t disp'n issued April 7, 1864, recalled b y G.-. M . ' . , (second Sept. 27, 1864.
) Consol. with K e y s t o n e Lodge 1 N o . 102, M a r c h 22. 1918.
j Consol. w i t h K i n g Solomon I Lodge N o . 10, Oct. 1 8 , 1 8 7 6 . ("Dispensation issued a s L a n d -< m a r k Lodge, b u t c h a r t e r issued (.in n a m e of St. J o h n ' s Lodge.
1879 Dec. 6, 1894 1881 F e b . 2 1 . 1895 1871 J a n . 13, 1888 1866 Oct. 20, 1875 1867 F e b . 15, 1888 j N a m e changed in 1870 t o Ionic 1869 Oct. 18, 1879 1 Lodge. ( D r o p p e d from roll a c c o u n t or1861 < ganization G r a n d Lodge of (.Colorado in 1862. 1884 i Consolidated with Newton 1 Lodge N o . 142. J i m e 28, 1901. 1867 1 Lodge N o . 6, Oct. 1 8 , 1 8 7 6 . 1882 M a r . 5, 1887 1902 F e b . 20, 1908 1870 J a n . 19, 1897 1859 Oct. 2 1 , 1863 ( D i s p ' n issued as Osawatomle < Lodge, b u t c h a r t e r e d a s Osage (Valley Lodge. (Consol. with F r a n k l i n Lodge 1872 -^No. 18, N o v . 24, 1906, as ( O t t a w a Lodge N o . 18. 1858 Oct. 18, 1871 j C h a r t e r revoked Oct. 2 1 , 1 8 6 3 , 1 b u t restored Oct. 16, 1866. • 1874 ( N o . 37, Oct. 18, 1876. 1 Dispensation issued as Lincoln 1868 Oct. 17, 1871 < Lodge, b u t c h a r t e r e d as C e n t e r (Lodge. 1862 Oct. 18, 1871 1867 Oct. 17, 1877 j Consolidated with P i t t s b u r g 1904 1 Lodge N o . 187, J u l y 2 9 , 1 9 1 1 .
F e b . 19, 1885 Dec.
Oct. 18, 1858 Oct. 17, 1872 F e b . 20, 1889 J a n .
Magnolia..
Louisburg Lyons Evergreen Monticello M t . Pleasant.. N e o s h o Rapids..
13 123 315 253
26 Oct. 16, 1867 Oct. 19, 1870
50 Oct. 16, 1866
Nevada....
Phoenix..
Mcpherson
Lecompton.. Montgomery.... Liberty Linconville..
... Leavenworth.... L a n d m a r k . . .
Leavenworth....
to
H lU ft
o
Co
o
t)
O O ts ft
^3
03
to
Pratt
Franklin
County.
No.
Chartered.
Charter Surrendered.
Mt. Moriah 70
Walton
Winfleld
Walton
Wlnfield
Virginia City
18, 22. 18, 15. 18, 19, 18, 17, 21, 16, 19,
1SS6 1883 1863 1882 1859 1871 1858 1867 1863 1879 1885
2 1 , 1S68
1883 1874 1887 1905
J a n . 24, 1902
Sept. 15, Oct. 2 1 , J a n . 6, Dec. 10,
Sept. 3, 1887
58 F e b . 20, 1889
323 F e b . 19, 1890 Aug. 5, 1895
43 Dec 20. 1864
Oct. Feb. Feb. Oct. Feb. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Feb.
Charter Bevokfd.
(,Utah in 1872.
F e b . 18, 1885
f Consol. with Adelphl Lodge -^No. 110, F e b . 19, 1903, as (Winfleld L o d g e N o . 110.
1 M o n t a n a in 1866.
( D r o p p e d from roll a c c o u n t or-
having
j Consol. with Salina Lodge N o . 1 60, April 29, 1907. ( D r o p p e d from roll a c c o u n t or-
Remarks.
o record of disp'n Oct. 2 1 , 1863 (1Nbeen issued.
F e b . 17, 1892 F e b . 20, 1908 Oct. 20, 1875
•
{DEFV^CT)—Concluded.
138 Oct. 16, 1872 N o v . 16, 1901 303 F e b . 15. 188S F e b . 17, 1892 Richfield J o h n H , Brown.... 216 22, 1894 Feb.
Name.
216 Perfect Square.... 220 39 152 Leavenworth.... Stanton 18 Zion 108 15 59 T i m b e r Ridue Leavenworth.... Blooming Grove.. 41 Trading Post Twin Falls Olive 181 Greenwood 243 Ark Valley Center...
Salt L a k e City..
Richfield
Location.
CHARTERED LODGES
en
OS
to
>=!
o
o o ta
§
to
236
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
GRAND LODGES I N CORRESPONDENCE WITH THE GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS; ALSO T H E NAMES AND ADDRESSES OF GRAND SECRETARIES. Alabama Arizona
GEORGE A. BEAUCHAMP GEORGE J. ROSKRUGE
Montgomery. Tucson.
Arkansas
FAY HEMPSTEAD
Little Rock.
California Colorado Connecticut
JOHN WHICHER WILLIAM W . COOPER GEORGE A. K I E S
San Francisco. Denver. Hartford.
T^ ,
T
Delaware
JOHN F . ROBINSON
T. r,
fP- 0 . Box 1227, jwilmington.
District of Columbia... J. CLAUDE KEIPBR
Washington.
Florida Georgia Idaho Illinois Indiana
WILBER P. WEBSTER FRANK F . BAKER CURTIS F . P I K E OWEN SCOTT WILLIAM H . SWINTZ
Jacksonville. Macon. Boise. • Decatur. Indianapolis.
Iowa
CHARLES C . HUNT
Cedar Rapids.
Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland
ALBERT K . WILSON FRED W . HARDWICK JOHN A. DAVILLA CHARLES B . DAVIS. GEORGE COOK
Topeka. Louisville. New Orleans. Portland. Baltimore.
^,,
r.
^.
Massachusetts
ir
trr XT
f^OS Mas. Temple,
FREDERICK W . HAMILTON..^ -g^ ^^
Michigan
Lou B. WINSOR
Grand Rapids.
Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska
JOHN FISHEL EDWARD L . FAUCETTE FRANK R . JESSE CORNELIUS HEDGES, J R FRANCIS E . W H I T E
St. Paul. Meridian. St. Louis. Helena. Omaha.
Nevada ^^ .,
EDWARD D . VANDERLiETH....Reno. T r, ri43 E. State St.,
New Jersey New Mexico
ISAAC CHERRY ALPHEUS A. K E E N
New York North Carolina North Dakota
„ ^ „ f Masonic Hall, ROBERT J. KENW0RTHY....|j^g^ York City. WILLIAM W . WILLSON Raliegh. WALTER L . STOCKWELL Fargo. „ ^ fCincinnati.
Ohio
.....HARRY S. JOHNSON
-j -prenton Albuquerque.
jp
Q BQ^TSS
Oklahoma Oregon
W M . M . ANDERSON D . RuFUS CHENEY
Guthrie. Portland.
Pennsylvania
JOHN A. PEREY
Philadelphia.
Rhode Island South Carolina
S. PENROSE WILLIAMS O. FRANK HART
Providence. Columbia.
.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
237
South Dakota
GEORGE A. PETTIGREW
Sioux Falls.
Tennessee Texas
STITH M . CAIN WILLIAM B . PEARSON
Nashville. Waco.
Utah
SAM H . GOODWIN
Salt Lake City.
Vermont Virginia
HENRY H . ROSS CHARLES A. NESBITT
Burlington. Richmond.
Washington
HORACE WALTER TYLER
Tacoma.
West Virginia Wisconsin
GEORGE S . LAIDLEY W M . W . PERRY....
Charleston. Milwaukee.
Wyoming
JOSEPH M . LOWNDES
Casper.
Alberta
S. Y. TAYLOR
British Columbia...
W. A. DEWOLF-SMITH
Canadia
W M . MCGREGOR LOGAN
Calgary. (P. O. Box 910, • j - ^ ^ ^ Westminster. Hamilton.
(Casilla 2867, Chile
AGUSTIN T . PALMA
jsantiago.
Colombia
ALLAN GOMES CASSERES...iBarranquilla.
Costa Rica, C. A Cuba.
GEORGE F . BOWDEN AuRELio MIRANDA
Ecuador
CARLOS A. .ROLANDO
fApartado 61, San Jose. Havana. fApartado 662, i Guayaquil
. fFreemason Hall,
England
P . COLVILLE SMITH
Guatemala
EDWARD B . COFFEY
Honduras....;
Luis SuAzo
Ireland
HENRY C . SHELLARD
•{ p^i^Uji
Manitoba
JAMES A. OvAS
Winnipeg. fP. 0 . Box 1986, < Mexico City
Mexico (York G.'.L.-.)CHARLES I. ARNOLD
) London
Guatemala, C. A.
Tegucigalpa. (Freemason Hall,
New Brunswick
J. TWINING HARTT
New South Wales
ARTHUR H . BRAY
New Zealand
GEORGE BARCLAY
-j Auckland
Nova Scotia
JAMES C . JONES
Halifax. (Apartado 360, ' -j pan^j^a (Apartado No. 587,
. Panama Peru
VICTOR JESURUN L U I S F . DE LAS CASAS
St. John.
Sydney. fP. O. Box 1144,
jLima
238
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
(P. 0 . Box 990, ) Manila Charlottetown. fP. 0 . Box 747, i San Juan f P. O. Box 3172,
Philippine Islands Prince Edward Isl ^ r,. Puerto Rico
NEWTON C . COMFORT ERNEST K E M P , ^ ^ JOSE G . TORRES
Quebec
W. WALTER WILLIAMSON....-^ jyjQj^j.j.g^j
Queensland
CHARLES H . HARLEY
Brisbane, Box 675.
Salvador, C. A Saskatchewan
J. PUENTE W. B. TATE
San Salvador. Regina.
Scotland
DAVID R E I D
South Australia
CHARLES R . J. GLOVER
Tasmania.:
W. H. STRUTT
Edinburgh.
Adelaide. f 117 Macquarie St. i Hobart.
Victoria
WILLIAM STEWART
Melbourne.
Western Australia
J. D. STEVENSON
Perth.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
239
GRAND REPRESENTATIVES OF T H E GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS NEAR OTHER GRAND LODGES. Alabama
Alberta Arizona Arkansas
R.'. W . ' . J O H N PHILIP MELVIN
Tuscaloosa.
British Columbia
Calgary. Douglas. Camden. (Vancouver M.-.W.'. ANDREW McC. CRBERY^ „22 R ' h d St
Chile
R.-. W.-. MAXIMIANO FLORES
California
System not recognized.
Canada
R.-. W.-.R. H. SPENCER
„ ,
..
Colombia Colorado. Connecticut
R.-. W.-.S. J. BLAIR ..M.\W.'.JAMES H . BARRETT M.-.W.'.Louis BAUERLEIN
„
, „ ,^
j Casilla 2895 fBox 97, Trenton, j Ontario
„
fApartado 72,
R.-. W.-.VIRGILIO DE LA CRUZ -iBarranquilla. R.-. W.\ WILLIAM H . SANFORD Denver. R.'. W.'.HOWARD A. MIDDLETON....Broad Brook.
Costa Rica
R.-. W.-.ADOLFO CANAS
Cuba...!
R.". W.'. FELIX V. PREVAL.
San Jose. Havana.
Delaware
M.'.W.'.A. VICTOR HUGHES...:
Wilmington.
District of Columbia ..M.-. W.-.T. JOHN NEWTON..... Ecuador :........M.-.W.-.JUAN MOLINARI... England — •. Florida R.'. W.-.HARRY B . MINIUM. Georgia R.'. W.-.P. T. MCCUTCHEN
{ n a S c Temple. Guayaquil.
Gn^i^rml^
SAMUEL E. FRANCO
] No'Tctatemtla
Honduras
R.-. W.-.FEDERICO C . CANALES
Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa
M.-.W.'.SHERMAN M . COFFIN M . \ W . \ G E O R G E M . MOULTON M.-.W.-. WILLIAM RIDLEY System not recognized.
Boise. Chicago. Corydon.
Ireland
R.'. W.'. RICHARD WALSH
Dublin.
Kentucky
System not recognized.
Louisiana Maine Manitoba Maryland
R.'. R.-. R.'. R.-.
Massachusetts
System not recognized.
W.-.HENRY S . WESTON W.-.ARCHIE L . TALBOT W.-.JABEZ MILLER W.-. JACOB ROHRBACK
Mexico (York G.-.L.-.)R.-. W.-. JOHN I. NEWELL Michigan
Jacksonville. Franklin.
Shreveport. Lewiston. Winnipeg. Frederick.
{ T a m p S . " ^ ° ' ^^'
R.-. W.-. W M . H . GALLAGHER
Minnesota
Allegan. fSt Paul R.'. W..MONTREVILLE J.BRowNJgQo 54-1,0+ g E
Mississippi
R.'. W.'.ROBERT W . HINTON, jR...Lumberton.
240
Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Brunswick New Jersey New Mexico New South Wales New York New Zealand North Carolina North Dakota Nova Scotia Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Panama Pennsylvania
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
M.-.W/ .ROBERT J . HATHAWAY Warm Springs. R.-. W.'-.HENRY H . H E I L E R Hastings. R.-. W.-.CHARLES A. THOMPSON ....Pioche. R.-. W.. G E S N E R A . TAYLOR Dorchester. , • „ f49 Prospect St., R.-. W. .ARTHUR POTTERTON
System not recognized. R.-. W.'•-ALFRED J. BURBIDGB R.-. W.-.SIDNEY M O R S E TT7 R.-. W.'„
jj^^^^^
^.^^
Sydney. Petersburg.
fP- 0- Box 2,
.EARNEST WARNES JGreymouth. R.-. W.- .M. C. S. NOBLES Chapel Hill. R.-. W.'. H A N S A. M O E Churchs Ferry. R.-. W.- . J O H N G . MITCHELL Halifax. M.-. W.- .ALLEN ANDREWS Hamilton. R.-. W.- . M A R L O N F . MANVILLB ....Ada. R.-. W.- .WALTER O . HAINES Portland. R.-. W.- .ABRAHAM FRANKEL Colon.
System not recognized.
Prince Edward Isl Puerto Rico Quebec Queensland Rhode Island Salvador Saskatchewan
A T> • f City Hall, - . H A R V E Y A . BoRDNER....|j^^^ii^ R.-. W.-. W I L L I A M G . M C D O N A L D . . M o n t a g u e . R.-. W.-- F E D E R I C O VALL-SpiNOSA.San J u a n . M.-.W. . E D W A R D A . E V A N S Quebec. R.'. W.-.. J A M E S C . R O B E R T S Brisbane. R.-. W.-,. J O H N R . D E N N I S Providence. R.-. W.-.CARLOS D'AUBUISSON San Salvador. R.-. W.-.-W. M. MARTIN Regina.
Scotland
R.-. W.-.
Philippine Islands
R.-. W.'
T o ,, ^
South Australia South Carolina South Dakota
.J. S. M. GRIEVE U.: W.' .A. E. GIFFORD R.-. W.'.ARTHUR V. WILLIAMS R.-. W.' .JAMES B . VAUGHN
Tasmania
R.-. W.'
Tennessee Texas Utah.,.-. Vermont Victoria Virginia Washington Western Australia West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming
„, „ ,
.DAVID W . W A T S O N R.-. W.'.HALLUM W . GOODLOE M.-.W.' .WILLIAM CLARK M.-. W.- .ARTHUR C . WHERRY . H E N R Y H . Ross
fThe Frond, juddingston. Adelaide. Charleston. Castlewood.
rCollinsSt., jnobart. Nashville. Jefferson. Salt Lake City. Burlington.
M.-. W._ • . (•74 Moor St., R.-. W.-.EDWARD THOMAS Apps..-^p,jj.2j, R.-. W.-. H E N R Y M . BOYKIN Richmond. R.-. W.- . W A L T E R J. THOMPSON ....Tacoma. „ f Wesley Manse, R.-. W.-. F R E D S . FINCH | M i d l a n d Junct. M.-. W.- .JOHN M . COLLINE ...M.-. W.- . DAVID HARLOWS System not recognized.
Charleston. Milwaukee.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
GRAND REPRESENTATIVES OF OTHER GRAND LODGES NEAR THE GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS.
241
'
Alabama. W.-.JOHN M . KINKBL.! Topeka. Alberta W.-. GEORGE D . ADAMS Salina. Arkansas W/. CLAYTON LEHMAN Newton. Arizona W.'. W. AMER BURNETT Oberlin. British Columbia W.-. A. PHILLIP LAPHAM Wetmore. California M . ' . W . - . W M . EASTON HUTCHISON...Garden City. Canada W.-. HUBERT H . HUBBARD Galena. Chile W.-. GEORGE GETTY Syracuse. Colombia W.'.ELLSWORTHB.SEWELL, JR..Topeka. Colorado W.-. LAUREN D . RIGG Leon. Connecticut W.'.FRBD T . NYE Leavenworth. Costa Rica R.-. W.'. CHARLES N . FOWLER Salina. Cuba W'.-.ROY H . CLOSSEN Coffeyville. Delaware W.'. ELMER S. NANCE Oswego. Dist. of Columbia •— Ecuador W . \ J A Y B . KIRK lola. England R.-. W.-.ALBERT K . WILSON Topeka. Florida M.'.W.'.ELMER F . STRAIN Topeka. Georgia W.'. HARRY E . BEST Manhattan. Guatemala W.'. L U C I E N L . CONSTANT Belle Plaine. Honduras W.-.PRANK D . SPBRRY Ellsworth. Idaho W . - . W M . G . KELLEY Horton. Illinois M.-.W.-.HuGH P. FARRELLY Chanute. Indiana M.". W.'. OwEN J. WOOD Topeka. Ireland .'.W.-.JoHN DAVIS Belleville. Kentucky System not recognized. Louisiana W.'.HOMER T . HARDEN Wichita. Maine M.'.W.'.RICHARD E . BIRD Wichita. Manitoba W.'. HARRY B . GRAHAM Haven. Maryland W.-. MosES H. COLE Harper. Massachusetts System not recognized. Mexico (York " ) „ „ , . ^, „ T ,^ , Q . T . •) ^....R.-. W.-. ALBERT K. WILSON Topeka. Michigan W.'. GEORGE T . MOHRBACHER ..Marysville. Minnesota W.'. EZRA B . FULLER Ft. Leavenworth. Mississippi W.-. EDWIN C . EAGLES Thayer. Missouri M.-.W.-.PBRRY M . HOISINGTON Newton. Montana W.-.JAMES H . BEEGLE..... Neodesha. Nebraska M.-.W.-.WILLIAM I. STUART Hiawatha. Nevada W.-.ARTHUR N . ROCHESTER...Wichita. New Brunswick W.-.HARRY E . PEACH Emporia. New Jersey W . ' . J O H N M . PLEASANT El Dorkdo. New Mexico System not recognized.
242
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
New South Wales W.-.HARMON J. BOWER Norton. New York W.'-GEORGE F . BEEZLEY Girard. New Zealand W.-. FRANK E . DAVIS... Atchison. North Carolina M.-.W.-.ALEX. A. SHARP....: ..Topeka. North Dakota W.-. BRUCE GRIFFITH Wichita. Nova Scotia M.-.W.-.JOHN MCCULLAGH Galena. Ohio W.-.JosEPH D. FELL Concordia. Oklahoma M.-.W.-.CHARLES E . LOBDELL Great Bend. Oregon W.-. CHARLEY B . ERSKINE Cimarron. Panama W.-.JAMBS A. CASSLER McPherson. Pennsylvania System not recognized. Philippine Islands W.-.RoY G. SHEARER Abilene. Prince Edward Isl W.-. MARION M . MILLER Longton. Puerto Rico M.-.W.-.WILLIAM L . BURDICK Lawrence. Quebec W.-. CHARLES W . MILLER, jR....Hays. Queensland M.-. W.-.ELRICK C . COLE Great Bend. Rhode Island R.-. W . - . W M . FRANK MARCH Lawrence. Saskatchewan W.-.JOHN B . FLEMING Hamilton. Scotland W.-. HARVEY O . DAVIS Anthony. South Australia W.-. RICHARD W . EVANS Dodge City. South Carolina W.-.OTTO R . SOUDERS Wichita. South Dakota M.-.W.-.CHARLES A. LqucKS Lakin. Tasmania M.-.W.-.BEN S. PAULEN Fredohia. Tennessee :W.-.EARL B . HOPPER Ness City. Texas M.'.W.-.GILES H . LAMB Yates Center. Utah W.-.HAYES FLOYD Ness City. Vermont M.-. W.-.HENRY F . MASON Garden City. Victoria W.-. RAYMOND C . HANSON Kinsley. Virginia W.-.BARLUS ROMSTEDT Ottawa. Washington W.-.STANFORD M . SMART '....Zenda. Western Australia M.-.W.-.THOMAS G . FITCH Wichita. West Virginia R.-. W.-. JOHN W . NEILSON Concordia. Wisconsin M.-.W.-.MARION K . BRUNDAGE Russell. Wyoming System not recognized.
APPOINTIVE GRAND OFFICERS , 1924, (1) FRED E . BROOKS, Grand Chaplain; (2) FERRIS M . HILL, Grand Senior Deacon; (3) PAUL M. MARTIN, Grand Junior Deacon ; (4) RICHARD W . EVANS, Grand Marshal ; (5) EMERSON B. WELLS, Grand Sword Bearer ; (6) GEORGE M. COPLIN, Grand Senior Steward; (7) FRANK C . TROUTFETTER, Grand Junior Steward; (8) ELLSWORTH B. SEWELL, J R. , Grand P ursulvant; (9) W. AMER B URNETT, Grand Tyler.
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH —OF—
M.-.W.-. ELMER F. STRAIN, GRAND MASTER OF MASONS OF KANSAS, FEBRUARY 28, 1924, TO FEBRUARY 26, 1925.
B Y ELLSWORTH B. SE.WELL, J R . , , PAST MASTER OF ORIENT LODGE No. 51, TOPEKA.
ELMER F . STRAIN was born in Salem, Indiana, November 10,. 1871.
His parents, FRANKLIN and SUSAN C . STRAIN, felt the calLfrom
the west soon after his birth, moving to Otoe County, Nebraska, in 1872, and from there to Phillips County, Kansas, a year later, homesteading near the City of Kirwin. They remained on this farm until 1877, when they moved to Phillipsburg, which still is the family home. Brother STRAIN received his education in the Phillipsburg Public Schools and afterwards for a short time taught in one of the country schools. ^ In 1891 he entered the employ of the C. R. I. & P. Railway as a messenger, and during his spare moments learned telegraphy. He worked as an operator at various point? for several years, but the officials of the traffic department, recognizing his unusual ability for making friends, moved him to Colorado where he acted as Commercial Agent at Pueblo, Colorado Springs and Denver. A vacancy occuring in Topeka, he was transferred there in April, 1905, with the title of Division Freight Agent, which position he still occupies. While his loyalty to the Company is never questioned, yet he has the faculty of seeing the shippers' side in all controversies, and the entire shipping public has the utmost confidence in his judgment and fairness. He married Miss MIDA PRENTISS, December 6, 1891, and has one • daughter, DOROTHY JEAN, now twelve years old. He is a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Topeka and claims to have swept himself into this faith, being Janitor of the Phillipsburg Church for three years. Although his railroad duties are numerous, yet he has always found time to take an interest in civic affairs. He now is, and has been for a number of years, a director of the Topeka Chamber of Commerce, and served as its President from January, 1920, to April, 1921. He is particularly proud of his record in Orient'Lodge, receiving his Master Degree in May, 1906. He was appointed Junior Steward
244
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
in December of that year and has served the Lodge in some official capacity ever since. By nature he is energetic, strong willed and never shirks a duty, yet unlike so many persons of similar attributes, he has hosts of friends and few enemies. MASONIC HISTORY. LODGE. ORIENT LODGE N O . 51, TOPEKA, KANSAS:
Initiated, March 2, 1906. Passed, April 14, 1906. Raised, May 26, 1906. Junior Steward, 1907. Senior Steward, 1908. Junior Deacon, 1909. Junior Warden, 1910. Senior Warden, 1911. Master, 1912. Tyler, 1913. GRAND LODGE:
Grand Senior Deacon, 1921. Grand Junior Warden, 1922. Deputy Grand Master, 1923. Grand Master, 1924. District Deputy Grand Master, 1912, 1913. Committee Service. Committee on Reports of Grand Officers: Member, 1916, 1917. Committee on Necrology: Chairman, 1919. Committee on Chartered Lodges and Lodges U. D.: Chairman, 1920. CHAPTER. TOPEKA CHAPTER N O . 5, TOPEKA, KANSAS:
Mark Master, November 24, 1906. Past Master, February 4, 1907. Most Excellent Master, February 4, 1907. Royal Arch, March 12, 1907. Master Second Veil, 1909. Royal Arch Captain, 1910. Principal Sojourner, 1911. Scribe, 1912. King, 1913. High Priest, 1914. Treasurer, 1919, 1920, 1921, 1922, 1923, 1924.
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
245
GRAND CHAPTER:
Committee Service. Committee on Credentials: Member, 1913. Committee on Necrology: Member, 1916; Chairman, 1918. Committee on Finance and Property: Member, 1917. j Committee on Reports of Grand Oificers: Chairman, 1919, 1920, 1921, 1922, 1923, 1924. Order of High Priesthood, February 17, 1914. COUNCIL. ZABUD COUNCIL N O . 4, TOPEKA, KANSAS:
Royal Master, March 26, 1913. Select Master, March 26, 1913. Super Excellent Master, March 26, 1913. Steward, 1914. Captain of the Guard, 1915. Deputy Master, 1916. Master, 1917. GRAND COUNCIL:
Grand Grand Grand Grand
Custodian of Work, 1921. Marshal, 1922. Captain of Guard, 1923. Principal Conductor of Work, 1924.
Committee Service. Committee on Appeals and Grievances: Member, 1916. Committee on Necrology: Chairman, 1917; Member, 1918. Committee on Finance and Accounts: Chairman, 1919, 1920. COMMANDERY. TOPEKA COMMANDERY N O . 5, TOPEKA, KANSAS:
Red Cross, April 16, 1907. Knights of Malta, April 30, 1907. Knights Templar, April 23, 1907. Standard Bearer, 1911. Junior Warden, 1912. Captain General, 1913. Generalissimo,. 1914. Commander, 1915. Prelate, 1920; 1921. GRAND COMMANDERY:
Committee Service. Committee on Chartered Commanderies and. Commanderies U. D.: Chairman, 1917, 1919, 1921. Committee on.Necrology: Chairman, 1918. Special Committee on Uniforms: Chairman, 1924.
PROCEEDINGS OP THE
ASSOCIATION O F PAST GRAND MASTERS OP THE
M.-. W.-. GRAND LODGE OF A. F. & A. M. OF KANSAS.
February 24, 1925. p« The twenty-first Annual Meeting of the Association of Past Grand Masters of the M.-. W.-. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas was held in a private dining room of the Wichita Club, at 6:30 p. M. of the above date. The following members were present: WICHITA, KANSAS,
M. . w.- JAMBS H . MCCALL M. . w.- THOMAS G . FITCH M. . w.- THOMAS L . BOND . HENRY F . MASON M. . w.M. . w.- WILLIAM EASTON HUTCHISON M. . w.- ELRICK C . COLE M. . W.". WILLIAM L . BURDICK M. . w.- GILES H . LAMB M. . w.- OWEN J. WOOD M. . w.- B E N S . PAULEN M. . w.- JOHN MCCULLAGH
Grand Grand Grand Grand
Master, Master, Master, Master,
1895-6 1904-5 1906-7 1908-9
..Grand Master, 1912-13
Grand Master, Grand Master, Grand Master, Grand Master, Grand Master, ........Grand Master,
1913-14 1915-lQ 1916-17 1919-20 1921-2 1922-3
M.'. W.'. GILES H . LAMB presiding as Venerable President, opened a Table Lodge; upon motion M.;.W.'. ELMER F. STRAIN, Grand Master of the M.-. W.-. Grand Lodge of Kansas, was unanimously elected to membership; and
1924-25.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
247
the attributes of the Association were conferred upon him by the Venerable President. Sincere regret was expressed by each member present at the absence of M.-.W/. PERRY M . HOISINGTON, and M.-. W.-. WILLIAM I. STUART, on account of illness; and also an expression of sorrow at the passing of M.'. W.'. EDWARD W . WELLINGTON.
Succeeding the social pleasures of the evening, a number of subjects of importance to the Craft were discussed and considered. The Venerable President announced that under the Constitution M.-. W.". OWEN J. WOOD automatically succeeded to the office of Venerable President, and M.". W.". ELMER F . STRAIN became Steward, for the ensuing year. On motion M.-. W.-. ELRICK C . COLE was chosen Worthy Secretary for the ensuing year. The Table Lodge formally closed until the regular annual meeting in February, 1926; unless sooner convened by the President. ELRICK C . COLE,
Secretary.
EDWARD WINSLOW
WELLINGTON
Grand Master, February, 1907-1908 Born at Cambridge, Mass., February 4, A. D. 1853. Died at his liome in Ellsworth, Kansas, February 18, A. D. 1925.
^^S^^^^H
3ln il^mnmm.
innatson imuier Hatnb M.'.W.\ (SranlJ iiaatfr in IBBB
morn imay 2, 1845
Died Bugust 13,1924
BBBBBSB
Jtt lifmcrmm.
Gdward Olinslow Olellington M.'. m.\ (SranJj liafitrr in 1907
ffiorn jpebruarv 4, 1853 Died Jfcbruarv 18, 1925
3(n M^moxmm.
Sacred to tl^e imemory of ©ur :fi3eloved 5>ead within this jurisdiction.
L
i?ati|0 luring tljf l^ar 1924. SmUhton No. 1.—Albert B. Irwin, Feb. 5; Henry Swlnney, July 25. Leavenworth No. £.•—Benjamin E. Brandow, Feb. 6; John V. EUard, D e c . l ; William Marqua, April 28; Arthur O. Thoos, Aug. 1 ; William Neely Todd, June 13; John L. Shields, Sept. 28; Kdward W. Waynant, June 18. Wvandotle No. 3.—Wesley N. Loveless, Jan. 29; WiUiam Asa Robinson, Feb. 5; Fruest J. Lutz, Feb. 6; Arthur W. Kreuger, Feb. 12; Albert C. Hagclgans, Feb. 20; Ethan W. Daily, March 18; George O. Ward, April 9; Samuel H. Mileham, April 13; John C. CoMmeyer, July 12; Andrew A. Smith, Aug. 22; Claude J. Studebaker, Aug. 28; Aima Collor, Sept. 9; Wilham E. Bailey, Sept. 29; Charles W. DeJournette, June 8; Frank Herbert Fox, Oct. 18; Irvin Claude Eousselo, Oct. 24; Lee O. Carter, Nov. 26; Clement L. Hopkins, Nov. 29; William Edward Miller, Nov. 29; Leonidas B. Green, Dec. 5; George W. Cauifleld, Dec. 6. Kickapoo No. J).—David H. Sprong. July 4. Washington No. 5.—Miller J. Mitchell, Oct. 14; John C. Root, Aug. 14; Albert G. Schall, May 25. Lawrence No. 6.—Alfred J. Dicker, Nov. 29; George Innes, April 12; John B. Russell, April 8; James Steven, Dec. 6. Union No. 7.—Frank S. Armstrong, Nov. 9; Irving Aspol, Nov. 25:' John D. GrilBn, Feb. 29; William Perrigo, Nov. 28; Charles E. Steasman, Jan. 31; Wilfred J. Stokes, Nov. 3. Rising Sun No. 8.—Charles Clifton Crain, Jan. 5; William W. Martin, March 7; Alonzo M. Johnson, Sept. 24; Peter J. Cole, Oct. 6; Robert H. Shepherd, June 9. Acacia No. 9.—Jolm R. Griggs, April 29; Sidney W. Griggs, May 24; Samuel H. McOurdy, June 6; George F. MuUen, April 5; Lewis L. Phillips, Jan. 29; Charles M. Wliipple, June 2. King Solomon No. 10.—Frank Olhausen, March 25; Simon B. Langworthy, April 15; George R. Benedict, Jr., May IS; Adolph W. Wulfekuhler, June 8; Edward Y. Blum, Dec. 15. Jewell No. 11.—Charles H. Thackston, June 6; Albert Whitney, Feb. 11. Emporia No. IZ.—Daniel A. Dryer, Sept. 13; William I. Ford, Aug. 4; Robert M. Hamer, May 23; WilUam E. Huestis, May 24; Clarence G. Martin, Oct. 17: Clark H. Martin. June 28; Robert B. A. McBride, Oct. 9; George M. McCarter, Dec. 29; Albert G. Randolph, May 27; Justin R. Soden, Nov. 28; Edwin S. Waterbury, Jan. 20; Lynn G. Wilcox, Jan. 29. Oskaloosa No. IJf.—Albert J. Buck, April 15. Great Bend No. 15.—Miller G. Blakey, Feb. 3; William A. Brown, Nov. 23; Jesse Rasor, Oct. 7; Charles F . Redfleld, June 20; George W. Thatcher, Dec. 24.
DEATHS—Continued. Lafayette No. 16.—Clarence B . Apitz, May 5; Ephraham L. Hanlan, July 19; Thomas B. Haslam, May 6; Sam Kimble, May 17; Elias E. Morris, May 28; William P. Shuler, Doc. 24, 1923. Topeka No. 17.—Henry Bennett, Jan. 25; Henry Bennett, Jr., Nov. 15;- John F. Billings, Dec. 1; William B. Bradford, Alarch ,S; Asa J. Lovoland, March 26; Frederick M. Kimball. July 8; Louis Miller. Dec. 15; John F. Mitchell, May 9; Daniel W. Nellis, Sept. 29; Jesse B. Pennington, June 1; John T. Porter, Jan. 31; James Quine, June 24; Thomas .Smith, .Sept. 9; Eobort E. Stites, Dec. 15; John Streeter, Nov. 12, 1923; Harris L. Whiting, June 4. Ottawa No. 18.—Theodore C. Brown, July 0; Nelson A. Chambers, Jan. 28; Milo B . Harris, July 29; George B. Johnson, Feb. 12; John M. Marsh, May 25; James H. Bice, April 27; AVilliam Wheeler, March 4. Olaihe No. 19.—Thomas Burns, Aug. 31; Lee H. Johnson, Dec. 15. Circleville No. ZO.—Felton W. Landrum, April 7; George W. McPherson, April 28; Jesse G. Sharp, April 16. Valley Falls No. 21.—James P . Batchelor, Feb. 9; Dexter S. Gary, Dec. 22. Palmyra No. 23.—Herbert Hutches, May 2; Lyman Sullivan, March 31. Osage Valley No. 2Ji.—William L. Dunaway, July 4. Oketo No. 25.—Harvey B. Chambers, Dec. 26. Longton No. 2B.—George W. Harris, Jan. 1; Joseph J. Sexton, Jan. 3; John F. Belt, July 15. Neosho No. 27.—Henry Frederick Hayes, Nov. 1. Pacific No. 29.—Francis D. Culiver, Jan. 23; Samuel F. Mikland, Nov. 6. Towanda No. 30.—Danial M. Straw, Jan. 3; Edgar A. Spaldinfe, April 17; Franklin L. Johnson, Jr., Aug. 5; Alfred W. Carter, Nov. IS; WiUiam T. Knapp, Dec. 30. Mound City No. 33.—Freeman C. Baker, Feb. 6; Samuel Hellard, Jan. 22; David O. Kingsbury, 11 eb. 26; J. Clarence Montanye, April 10. Havensville No. 3Jf.—Edward T. Morgan, Aug. 6. Hiawatha No. 35.—Simon Eraser, Aug. 28; John W. Leibengood, Sept. 20. Council Grove No. 36.—Paoli S. Climer, July 30; George W. Clark, Oct. 10; William H. Eobinson, Oct. 16; John Whitton, Dec. 13; James N. Baker, Feb. 14; James Harry LaMasney, March 24. Paola No. 37.—Charles H. Paxton, Dec. 4. lola No. 38.—John H. Walters, Feb. 2; Eussie C. Younggren, June 28. Seneca No. 39.—John F. Baldwin, March 27; Benjamin F. Hart, April 14; Adrian B. Appleby, May 29.
DEATHS—Continued. De Soto No. IfO.—James G. Freeman, Jan. 15; Paul Peterson, June 25. McKinley No. 1^1.—William B. Hutchinson, April 20. Holton No. ifi.—Prank S. Scott, Dec. 20; Joseph B. Gardiner, Jan. 7; Samuel M. Waldon, July 5; Edson S. Woodworth, Jan. 30; William H. Woodworth, Feb. 12; Prank H. Woodworth, April 22. Nickerson No. JfS.—James B. Hall, Sept. 28. Delphian No. It>t.—T.isander A. Dwyer, Feb. 3; Cornelius Ecord, July 30; Paul C. Dewey, Oct. 5. Easton No. ^5.—Thomas A. Sparks, Dec. 23. Xenia No. kt.—Alpheus Tanner, March 16. Nine Mile No. i9.—A. H. Hardman, June 20; William O. Hobbs, Dec. 23; George W. Thomas, June 23. Lake No. 50.—James H. Pennington, April 23; George K. Allboe, Oct. 2. Orient No. 51.—^John Barlow, April 15; J. W. Barngrover, July 12; James D. Brizendine, Dec. 16; Jacob Gessler, Aug. 28; George M. Hammel, July 10; Edward King, Sept. 26; Francis W. Leech, Oct. 15; Ira R. Moses, March 11; Fred E. Nipps, Dec. 6; Burton S. Orr, July 28; Benjamin P. Owen, Feb. 19; George H. Porter, April 12; Thomas Porter, June 7; Alfred A. Schmidt. Oct. 17; James C. Smith, April 19; W. A. L. Thompson, Dec. 10; Charles B. Zarker, Dec. 21; Prank P. Zimmerman, March 15. Pottawatomie No. 5Z.—John Lewis Ramsey, May 10. Troy No. 55.—John L. Berry, Jan. 3; George William Townsend, Dec. 11; Wilham T. Wood, March 28. Spring Hill No. 56.—Thomas B. Robinson, Sept. 27. Saltville No. 59.—Jacob S. Wright, Sept. 23. Salina No. 60.—Thomas Benton Cline, Oct. 19; Harry M. Curry, April 22; Francis W. Ekstrand, April 3; Samuel Gradwohl, Sept. 28; David Hill, Feb. 1; Oscar Lind, July 29; George Henry Meyer, April 22; Ote E. Morgan, Nov. 1; William Renins Ward, Aug. 2. Bidgeway No. 62.—Walter Scott Martin, Feb. 20. Adams No. 63.—Clarence M. Flora, Nov. 28. Wathena No. 6Jf.—^Robert H. Larzelere, June 16; Charles Laipple, July 13. Gardner No. 65.—Newton J. Cameron, July 7; Samuel Phillis, . Oct. 17. Burlington No. 66.—William J. McMtu'ray, July 18; Charles Conal Mackay, June 10. Frankfort No. 67.—Roy F. Carver, June 15. Hiram No. 68.—Cass Friedburg, June 5; Con T. Kennedy, Dec. 2; Joseph Tonar, April 24; Frank M. Wisdom, June 6. Carbondale No. 70.—John N. Sharp, May 14; George B. Scott, Oct. 30.
DEATHS—Continued. Baxter No. 71.—Edward I. Hanover, Feb. 24; JohnB. Opperman, Oct. 15. ChetotJa No. 73.—Andrew J. Doran, March 23; William Barnes, Dec. 10. Mystic Tie No. 7i.—Robert M. Smiley, Jan. S; Frank P. Singer, March 20; Chester C. Varner, July 27; Jacob L. Beck, Nov. 26. Wamego No. 75.—John I. Burgess, March 14; Josiah T. Gonn, June 13; Charles B.. Hatha way, July 7; Marcus D. Smith, Nov. 20. Erie No. 76.—L. D. Haynes, May 13. Delta No. 77.—Leonard N. Hoover, April 12; C. Tipton McCracken, March 22; Joseph Myers, Oct. 24. Corinthian No. 79.—Asa Carter, Dec. 22; William Smith, Jr.', Jan. 2 1 ; Arron J. Wells, Jan. 28. Zeredatha No. 80.—George George, June 2. Tuscan No. 82.—William L. Harris, Nov. 10. Doric No. 83.—Henry B . Page, June 27; Charles B. Floyd, Aug. 30. Jefferson No. 84-—Albin B. Darnall, Jan. 18; Henry C. Magers, Oct. 1; John H. Wilhelm, Oct. 3. Sunflower No. 86.—Samuel C. Bowman. June 13; Charles A. R. Kogler, Jan.25; William G. McKee, Oct. 15; John P. Oliver, Feb. 23; Winfield B. Sale, Aug. 16; Joseph H. Stewart, April 24; George W. Willotts, Fob. 19. Mankato No. 87.—Newell M. Fair, March 31. Eureka No. 88.—Robert E. Mclntyre, Jan. 15; Wamsley H. Blaker, Feb. 5. Golden Rule No. 90.—Eggert Dibbern, Jan. 16; August Gross, Feb. 9; Harvey Andrew Barnes, May 6; Benjamin F. Bawson, March 13, 1918. Marysville No. 91.—George P. Schmidt, May 25; Robert W. Jolley, Aug. 27; Robert W. Shibley, Sept. 4; Samuel B. Hemphill, Oct. 26. Devon No. 92.—John M. Balsley, April 30. Constellation No. 95.—Earl L. Hudson, Sept. 30. Delaware No. 96.—Lee Coleman, March 28; Herman W. Hurrelbrlnk, Sept. 22; Charles W. Ray, July 2. Patmos No. 97.—Alexander Carr, Feb. 1; Arden F. Crist, July 28; Lyle Evan Doty, Sept. 28; Leonard March Hedde, Feb. 18. Benevolent No. 98.—Edwin R. Brown, Nov. 18; Charles C. Tilton. Dec. 18. Wichita No. 99.—Walter S. Herr, Jan. 3; William J. Frazier, Jan. 18; James H. Black, Jan. 19; Irwin J. Maggard, Feb. 3; James Slgerson, March 29; John A. Blair, June 3; John W. Slaughter, June 23; Whitney R. Tucker, Aug. 27; George P. Locke. April 20; James L. Dyer, Nov. 3; WiUlam B. Bailey, Dec. 1; Albert M. Denny, July 6.
DEATHS—Continued. Prudence No. 100.—•William J. Hartley, Nov. 7; Andrew J. Jameson, Nov. 27; Peter F. Shackle, June 11; James Skidmore, May 1; Clare L. Woodard, Jan. 2. Keystone No. 102.—Levi Adams, April 10; Nepolian Durand, March 9; George H. Ferguson, Jan. 12; Seth H. Ford, July 28; Miner J. McDuglo, Feb. 4; John Mclntyre, June -17; Charles H. Willhaf, April 20. Cedar No. 103.—Walter N. Anderson, Sept. 3; StephenB. Beach, June 4; Thomas R. Edwards, May 18; .lames E. Herndon, Aug. 3; John F. Keas, Dec. 3; William K. Martin, May 31; William F. McDonald, Oct. 20; Albert H. Turner, Oct. 28. Frontier No. lOJf.—John R. Pruden, Feb. 27; Charles Smith, March 23; James A. Jones, Aug. 10. Solomon City No. lOo.—William Mortimer, Dec. 14; Oscar F. Searl, July 19; Allison M. Smith, Jan. 7. Fidelity No. 106.—Francis E. StiUwell, May 27; Henry Bane, June 6; James C. McCuraber, July 28; Sebastain Schofferer, Sept. 27; William J. Swenney, Nov. 23; David C. Johnson, Dec. 16. Fortitude No. 107.—John H. Harris, March 26; Gilbert Tj. Ooflman, April 27; James R. Londry, May 21; John W. Howe, June 1; .lefferson Bolt, July 24; Lew W. Ortell, Sept. 21; Andrew Benson, Sept. 28; Wellington B. Cushman, Sept. 29; Thomas C. Truman, Nov. 6; Fred L. Hoxie. Dec. 11; Thomas F. Callahan, Dec. 15; Reid A. Pinkston, Dec. 15. Winfield No. 110.—Henry B. Bggleston, March ]4; John F. Gesner, Jan. 9; Edwin P. Groor, Dec. 7; Frank W. Heindel, Dec. 20; Alfred M. Jackson, Jan. 11. Hesperian No. 111.—August S. Stanley. Aug. 22. St. John's No. lis.—Camile S. Betourney, Jan. 24; Halsey W. Barber, March 2; John G. Osborne. Jan. 10; John H. Sheeley, May 11; Frederick H. Thompson, Jan. 20: Alvin L. Wilmoth, Jan. 16. Advance No. lUf.—-Henry S. Lincoln, May 5; Louis Schuller, Jan. 29. Parsons No. 117.—Robert W. Bates, Feb. 5; John M. Gregory, March 23; Walter S. Harris, April 23; William W. Jones, Sept. 9; Julius J. Kach, Sept. 2.5; Warren A. Alarmaduke, June 27; Charles T. Pratt, April 26. Altoona No. 118.—Thomas G. Button, Feb. 18; Henry Kunkel. Nov. 15; Edwin Lloyd, Dec. 1. Cherokee No. 119.—Wicham T. Winter, Aug. 4; Robert B. Ware. Feb. 24. Halcyon No. 120.—-George C. Milne, May 12; A. Fuller Sjmonds, July 16. Clifton No. 122.—Henry F. Bueker. Jan. 13. Republic No. 123.—Hartwell H. Smith, Feb. 11. Cawker City No. 125.—Felix McGee, Aug. 8. Palestine No. 127.—Nat Wollard. March 2; Caleb A. Woodward, Nov. 19.
DEATHS—Continued. Belleville No. 129.—George W. Pryor, Oct. 25; John A. Swonson, Jan. 19. Polar Star No. 130.—James W. Vernon, Jan. 30. Equity No. 131.—Earl C. Cooper, Dec. 13. Carson No. 132.—Clarence R. Long, Sept. 27. Crescent No. 133.—Martin E. Burns, June 14; William M. Hay, May 7; Carl Hyklahl, April 5; Charles H. Kreitzmeir. May 8; Charles Patterson, Sept. S; Samuel I. Perring, Oct. 1; Charles H. Searing, March 12; Milton M. Spunaugle, July 10. Clay Center No. ISJf.—Frank V. Gay, Fob. 1,3; Gilmore M. • Stralton, July 14; Andrew J. Wilson, March 30. Lenexa Nc. 135.—Daniel N. Hartley, Nov. 19. Vesper No. 136.—.lohn E. BrcoUs, July 14; Harvey P. Moser, June 20; Prank A. Smith, March 29; Thomas A. Thornhill, . March 29. Cherrvvale No. 137.—William L. Headlev, Jan. 28; Edward P. Norton, Feb. 16; Edgar L. Combs, Nov. 10. Dover No. J,5S.^Thomas E. Bennett, June 23; James C. Sage, Feb. 12. Sedgwick No. 139.—Ted J. Gaertner, Sept. 30. Reno No. HO.—Noble A. Avery, April G; Stephen N. Colladay, June 10; James E. Conklin, Jan. 25; William H. Dunkin, Oct. 25; Eugene"M. English, March 26; Clement Klippel, June 9: Charles Mackej, Jan. 29; Marcellus P. Miller, March IS; Carl Nelson, June G; Frank F. Prigg, Doc. 12; William L. Shoup, Nov. 16; William S. Starr, Nov. 30; Harry W. A''osberg, April 24; Thomas W. Young, Nov. 1. Signal No. IJil.—David B. Moore, March 7. Newton No. Ili2.—Charles Belville, April 16; Harry H. Benfer, Sept. 2 ; Alford R. Champlain, Aug. 30; Benjamin F. Husten, Fob. 28; Edwin H. Kitcking, March 28; Loornord C. Ijawton, April 27; .Toseph J. Lewis, Jan. 3 1 ; .Totn H. McNair, Alarch 19; Benjamin F. Mears, Aug. 4; Walter Merrifleld, .Tune 27; Peter M. Morgan. July 15; Frank Ollinger, April 2; Gustavo A. Palm, Oct. 29; Eloyd E. Varner, Aug. 29; Carl E. Yccum, Feb. 5. Minneapolis No. UtS.—Martin B. Fitts, Jan. C. Gilead No. lJ,lf.—Carrol A. Rathbun, Feb. 12; Earl T. Cotter, June 15. Mt. Vernon No. Uf.j.—William O. Brinkerhoof, Dec. 20; William C. Cochran, Nov. 10; .loseph Ij. Lloyd, Oct. 24; Arthur Z. Seager. May 8; .Joshua E. Tice, April 21. Ellsworth No. H6.—James F. Baker, Dec. 18; George A. Lincoln, Jan. 23; Eli T. Smith, Nov. 17. Center No. 11/7.—William Bradbury. Dec. 15; James E. Scott, Sept. 1; Claude B. Smith, Nov. 11; Owen G. Skinner, Feb. 10.
DEATHS—Continued. Thayer No. 149.—Byron E. E'ldridge, June 19; Colin Keating, May 12; James T. Smith, July 5. Wellington No. 150.—William T. Brown, Dec. 22; William H. Eamey, Feb. 25; Charles E. Rolf, Oct. 10; John D. Share, Jan. 23. Douglass No. 151.—Alexander Allen, June 4; George C. Maxwell,' June 16; Stsphsn H. Brandon, Oct. 22; Henry Pinney, Nov. 18.Lebo No. 152.—David Harris, Nov. 11; Thomas Wilson. Dec. 13. Lincoln No. 15^.—Thonias F. Brann, July 20; John E. Clinton, May 25; Myron D. Green, Doc. 1; Dwight McKnight, July 18; John A. Schofleld, Nov-. 18. Hope No. 155.—William C. Brand, Feb. 14; Enoch M. Haile, Sept. 10; Charles E. Hebb, April 21. Active No. 158.—Samuel C. Moxcey, April 24. Robinson No. 159.—Eugene C. Brown, Oct. 16; Morris W. Husen, Dec. 2; John H. Lange, April 5. Saqui No. 160.—Elijah J. Ellis, Nov. 8. Alma No. 161.—George Mogge, Jan. 11; Fred R. Lang, June 1; Alvin Deems, Nov. 29Sabetha No. 162.—Henry C. Haines, April 11; .Toseph C. Lichty, Aug. 4. Gieenuood No. 163.—Mac L. Brown, Sept. 25. Atwood No. 16lf.—Alonzo W. Kelley, Sept. 5. Farmen No. 166.—Thomas Leach. Sept. 24. • Lamed No. i67.^—William F. Mclnteer, May 9; James W. Athey, May 31; John W. Kitchell, Dec. 20. Farkerville No. 168.-^Thomas H. Glasscock, Feb. 22. Blue Rapids No. 169.—Walter P. Brown, March 10. Sterling No. 171.—Samuel Leslie, April 29. McPherson No. 172.—Jacob Frederick Laderer, Dec. 29; Albert G. Smith, March 1. Western Slar No. 17Jt.—Truman O. Badger, May 3; Leonard P. Kendall, Dec. 12; William H. Nelson, Oct. 18. Prairie Queen No. 176.—Edwin T. Pock, April 15; Albert G. Sexton, June 22; Chauncoy W. Freelove. July 27. Russell No. 177.—John H. Hill, Oct. 30. Burr Oak No. 178.—George W. Cook, Jan. 5; Erastus O. Smith, May 1. Ml. Moriah No. 179.—Elmer P. Shephard, Feb. 3; Joseph Bishop, June 5. Lenora No. 181.—Edward C. Fuller, Nov. 15; Jonathan B. Hickman. Feb. 19; Joel E. Hayes, April 14; Carter W. Ward, .Tune 4. Gaylord N,o. 18S.—Grover Cochran. Dec. 3.
I
DEATHS—Continued. PMUipsburg No. ISlf.—Charles M. Sawyer, Feb. 16; Franklin Strain, Sept. 17; John D. Cheadle, Sept. 17. Hamlin No. 185.—George U. Hess, May 5. Mountain Slope No. 186.—Sidney A. Fish. Aug. 6. Pittshvrq No. 187.—Ulysses G. Baum, .Tan. 2R; John T. Campbell. Aufr. 3: .lohn A. Giant. .Tuly 17- William C. Hudson. April O; William G. Hvnds. Feb. 1.5: Henry Keck. April 17; SamT.PowelL.Tnly 24: William F . Rinele, March rt; Sulley S. Sell. .Tulv 31: John H. Ta'^eye. Nov. 28: .Tohn M. Whitesell, .Tnlv 3: Edward S. Hevius, Oct. 20; William W. Berry, Nov. 23, 1923. Onaga No. 188.—George P. Monroe, March 1; George Grover. Dec. 5. Newahcuba.No. 189.—John C. Pulley, Jan. 30. Henri No. 190.—Merlin C. Harris, Aug. 14, Walnut 'Valley No. 191.—Dick Barnd, Jan. 28; John N. Venard, April 2. Royal No. 192.—F.dear Amolo. May 6; -Mathis G. Lowery, Feb. 23; WiUiam S. Parker, May 18. Galena No. 191i.—Georee Henry Wilson, Feb. 20; William Walte Peter Clement, Nov. 20. Canton No. 197.—Eli Shaw, Aug. 20. Blue Hill No. 198.—James H. Moore, Sr., Feb. 11; Robert T, Powler. July 7; John W. Dorman, Oct. 2; Harrison Naylor, Nov. 28. Norton No. 199.—Ed T. Jones, March—. Anthony No. ZOO.—John Kropp, Jan. 19; Milton F . Roberson, May 3. Mulvnne No. 201.—.John W. Anderson, April 13; Harold D. Blood, Sept. 1; James Walton, March 19. Delphos No. 202.—Charles Long, Jan. 10. Sumner No. 20S.—Albert M. Colson, April 2; Charles N. Cozad, M a y 1: Jacob A. Darst, May 29; Reece C. Williamson, Nov. 21. Downs No. 20lf.—Hartog Meibergen. Feb. 21; William S. Angell, May 2. Eminence No. 205.—James C. Bennett, Jan. 5: Isaac N . Davis, .Tan. 8; .Tosenh Jones, Dec. 19; Charles Moggie, June 16; Edwin Sturdy, Nov. 13. Harper No. 206.—Andrew J. McAdams, Aug. 10. Occidental No. 207.—Harry B. Brickell, Jan. 28;1 BenlN. Rogers, Jan. 3; Willard K. Storer, March 2. Brookville No. 209.—Thilon J. Bollman, Sept. 1. Greeley No. 211.—Frank W. Jackson, Nov. 14. Olive Branch No. 212.—John A. Clark, Aug. 30. Twin Grove No. 213.—Alphonso Templeton, March 16.
DEATHS—Continued. Sincerity No. 214-—Edgar S. Harford, Jan. 27; Elza R. Louthan, June 7. Walnut City No. 215.—John A. ^Creed, May^ 29; ThomaslH. West, June 9. Ellinwood No. 217.—Christoph Bock, Sept. 26. Corner Stone No. 219.—Archie A. Troyer, Jan. 3; Orion S. Ramage, May 18. Lebanon No. 221.—Jacob G. Stofer, Oct. 2; Franklin T. Cuthbertson, Oct. 23; Arthur V. Sandborn, Oct. 31. St. Bernard No. 222.—John Anders, Oct. 29; AViley J. Baldwin, Oct. 30; John A. Blackburn, Sept. 2; Joseph E. Dillard, March 30; George J. Graves, Sept. 21; Samuel P. Laird, Feb. 7; Cyrus Wesley, Dec. 5. Anchor No. 224.—George M. McCurdy, Feb. 3; Ernest Van Valkenburg, April 21; James'H. Mize, Dec. 17. Siloam No. 225.—Edwin J. Bartel, Feb. 3; Joseph R. Pay, Sr. July 5; Mahara H. Haig, Nov. 10; John P. Johnson, Nov. 26 Luther M. Jones, Aug. 14; Llewellyn Kiene, Aug. 27 Hamilton F. Morris. Feb. 16; George Siemantel, Aug. 21. Wayne Russell Swords, Oct. 14; William H. Wasson, Oct. 12. Salem No. 228.—John Pinch, May 19; DeMott E. Sholes, Jan. 2. Vulcan No. 229.—Edward B. Hickman, Sept. 13. Ninnescah No. 230.—Drury P. Dodge, Feb. 15; John E. Ferguson, April 6; William C. Winfrey, Nov. 13. Long Island No. 231.—Layfette K. Carnahan, May 23. Greenleaf No.' 232.—George M. Durham, Aug. 7; Edward H. Potter, Aug. 22; William H. Barlow, Sept. 24. Axtell No. 23Jf.—William A. Miller, Feb. 28; William C. Ford, Aug. 18; John C. Hannah, Sept. 15. Meriden No. 236.—J. W. Edward Becker, Feb. 2. Temple No. 237.—Andrew Esp, Jan. 26; Adolph P. Minard, April 4; John H. Perrlne, Dec. 8. Mount Hope No. 238.—Philip B. Dick, Nov. 21; Claude C. Thomas, Feb. 10; Henry J. Whitbeck, Nov. 4. Urbana No. 239.—iWilliam N. Butler, Dec. 8. Millonvale No. 242.—Peter Bushong, June 1; Samuel P. Potter, Dec. 22; William Sharpe, March 25. Peace No. 243.—Abraham L. Howard, Dec. 10. •Waverly No. 244.—Jacob F. Schmid, Feb. 5. Marmaton No. 245.—Morris B. Altenburg,ISept. 4; Arthur Berg Neilson, June 28. Tyrian No. 246.—Samuel P. Ruckel, April 17; Charles B. Strode, June 18; Morton P. Williams, Sept. 25. Galva No. 251.-—James S. Russell, July 10; Richard H. Irons, Feb. 22; William H. Scribner, March 27; Truman H. Houghton, Dec. 21.
DEATHS—Continued. Oakley No. 253.—James R. Young, May 24. Ionic No. 251f.—Edward Hullhurst, July 29. Lyra No. 256.—James E. Sparks. Feb. 6; Wesley Guest, Sept. 11. Morton No. 258.—Wesley R. Blakey, Sept. IG; James K. Gardner, Dec. 21. Beattie No. 259.—Wallace B. Howk, Sept. 13; Merrill Potter, Nov. 15. Medicine Valley No. 260.—Homer H. Hastings, Jan. 28. Mulberry No. 261.—George W. Durey, April 13. Attica No. 262.—Lewis A. Jones, Jan. 16; Henry Shannon, Sept. 5. Logan No. 261).—Martin L. Stewart, Feb. 6. Kilwinning No. 26.5.—George L. Farris. July 9; Lewis M. Gardner, May 7; Charles W. Hart, Oct. 16. Mount Zicn No. 266.—Howard P. Hammer. .Tuly 1; David D. Wilson. Aug. 2; William G. Moxley, Oct. 18; Joseph R. Oiinger, Dec. 24. Bourbon No. 268.—Edward Betry, June 11; William T. Seidel. July 31. Mistletoe No. 269.—John D. Carter, June 20. Quenemo No. 270.—Charles H. Wyman, March 5. Armourdale No. 271.—Thomas F. Clingan, April 7; John T. Sims, July 24. Kaw No. 272.—Isaac M. Kirby, Mav 10: Thomas A. Powell, Jan. 3; Thomas M. Scott, Oct. 3; Colonel D. Wilson, Oct. 12. Unity No. 27.9.—Robert D. Colver, April 4; George E. Ingram, April 11; Thomas J. Macredie, March 29. Black. Diamond No. 27h.—Granville C. Butler, Aug. 7. Cosmos No. 278.—Charles T. Greever, Feb. 4; William Henry, ; Samuel Alfred Sailer, July 5, 1922. Millbrook No. 281.—Leander Gillott, Feb. 4. Alpha No. 282.—AVebster T. Roth, April 23, 1923; James M. Sharp, Fob. 21. Preston No. 2S3.—Charles Bohling, Fob. 6. Anthem No. 28Jf.—Samuel M. Day, July 30. Argonia No. 285.—Franklin A. Ruse, Jan. 3. Lotus No. 286.—Ranford C. Hartford, .Tuly 5; William H. Moore. Fob. 4. Oak No. 2S7.—John T. Brandt. March 25; Arthur C. Labore, May 10; Ezeklol W. Smith. March 7. Cyrus No. 288.—Leslie Earl Baker, Dec. 20; Ernest G. Enghbright, Nov. 9. Emerald No. 289.—Frank P. McAlister, March 6. Paradise A^o. 290.—Harry Hill. Feb. 9; Albert Fay Reed, Feb. 21; Israel Morris, Sept. 15; John A. Palmberg, Dec. 24.
I
DEATHS—Continued. Glasco No. 292.—Edward R. Haynes, March b. Kiowa No. 293.—Elmer E. Zentz, May 17; Benjamin A. Lenagar, Sept. 5. Comanche No. 295.—Harvey E. Myers, May 27; Ralph W. Scott, Oct. 4. Highland No. 296.—James E. Lykins, March 23. Apollo No. 297.—Arnold S. Muhlheim, Oct. 3; George W. Cress, Dec. 22. Samaria No. 298.-^William L. Johnson, March 20. Cable No. 299.—John W. Craig, Sept. 26. Faroo No. 300.—Virgil H. Grimstead, Feb. 22; David C. Jones, Dec. 1. Hamilton No. 301.—Al\in P. Burris, Feb. 24. —Gove-City-No.-302.—James-B.-Orten,-Oct.-29 Albert Pike No. 303.—John A. Anderson, Jan. 14, 1923; John H. Boys, Nov. 21; Fenton B. Clark, Dec. 12; Robert G. Clark, Sept. 1; Charles G. Colin, July 13; Anthony A. Crowell, July 10; Lewis A. Deain, March 30; John L. Givens, Dec. 30; Isidor Gross, Dec. 2; Edward Horner, March 24; Jim M. Kane, April 30; Ira Minnich, Feb. 22; John M. Moore, April 17; W. Ashley O'Dowd, May 2 ] ; Clifford Pardee, March 10; J. Elmer Reese, March 23; George W. Robinson, Aug. 11; Charles E. Scott, May 11; Joseph Taylor, May 9; Frederick H. AVurstcr, July 24; Sampson W. Zickefocse, Nov. 2,5. • . . Avon No. 30.5.—Noah H. Howard, July 25. St. Thomas No. 306.—Henry V. Beck, Jan. 26. Kansas No. 307.—Arthur J. Carruth, Sr., July 18; Albert M. Crary, Dec. 2; William A. Smith, Jan. 16; John Waylan, Dec. 8. AMen No. 308.—Joseph N. Hawkins, Sept. IS. Syracuse No. 309.—Elijah S. Clapp, Oct. 21; Marshall J. Clark, Apr. 7 : Harry A. Ogiloie, April 22; Perry E. Stewart, Oct. 5. Naphlali No. 310.—Andrew Dyatt, June 18; Bert R. Fisher, March 3. o Hancock No. 311.—Ernest R. Fisher, Feb. 2; William Jackson, Jan. 13; Louis M. Koehler, July 17; Monroe McParland, Sept. 3; Charles E. Wilson, May 0. Severance No. 313.—James A. Campbell, June 20. Hebron No. Sllf.—James W. Maclaskey, April 29. Virginia No. 315.—John T. Ralston, May 14; Andrew P. Wlsborg,July7; Carl C. West, July 8. Wallace No. 318.—George G. Rioth, June 5. Norwich No. 319.—Charlton Spore, Sept. 22. Goodland No. 321.—Amos Claxton, Sept. 28;'^Thomas B. Comer, J u n e l ; Walter M. Houghland, March 5; Roger E. Neilan, Aug. 4.
DEATHS—Continued. Ben Hur Nn. 322.—John J. Comby, Feb. 22; Clyde Hanes, Nov. 30; Nicholas Huston, Nov. 1; "William Shefendecker, Feb. 26; Sidney M. Johnson, April 14, 1923. Caney No. 32li.—Charles C. Baker, Sept. 28; Elmer Brown, Aug. 18; All'red Tester, Jan. 1; Willis S. Sullivan, Sr., Sept. 21. ha Harpe No. 325.—John T. Hastings, Jan. 5; Henry Hallingsworth, .July 29: Cyrcnus H. Melize, Feb. 11; Abraham L. Page, Nov. 23; James B. Stout, April 25; Francis A. Banner, July 10. Horton No. 326.—Charles A. Ayers, March 8;' Henry C. Barnett, July 8; Francis J. Campbell, May 21; Fred McKercher, Feb. 16; Lawrence Reynolds. Oct. 7; George H. Strait, Sept. 27; John L. Young, Jan. 5. Arcadia No. 329.—Alphus J. Sheffield, Aug. 27. La Crosse No. 330.—Freedom K. Groves. Jan. 15; Samuel I. Hale, March 10; Theodore F . Glassnor, May 15; Eiias R. Kennedy, Nov. 9. Hoisington No. 331.—Henry N. Bell, Jan. 15; Nathan J. Geer, April 18'; William Moody, Sept. 8; Fred S. Mattey, Sept. 24. Bosedale No. 333.—William Rankin, April 20; Elmer C. Holt, July 7: Francis M. Bowser, Dec. 26. Formoso No. 336.—Arthur Gabrielson, March 0; Thomas H. Shedden, Sr., April 28. Kincaid No. 338'.—Lysander O. Griffith, March 17. Parker No. SJfl.—Fred H. Hill, Aug. 31. Maple City No. 342.—Nathaniel Parlin, Nov. 20. Holyrood No. 3^3.—William W. Smith, April 18. Edna No. 31f5.—James L. Balcli, March 21; Henry B. Holland, March 4; Charles E. West, May 17. Moundridge No. 3Jf6.—Walter E. Dunlavey, Ncv. 11. Hoxie No. 3^8.—TJlrich Andregg, Nov. 3; Allen William Lovin, Dec. 10; Charles W. Turtle, April 14. Narka No. 3Jf9.—Robert R. Wills, May 15. Scammon No. 351.—Miles Minson, March 4; Grover C. Gillespie, June 30; John Oelrichs, Sept. 19; James E. Wheatley, Sept. 30. Horace No. 352.—Albert A. Allen, March 5; James Hunt, Sept. 5; John A. Nelson, Alay 5. Wellsville No. 356.—Clarence E. Barnard, April 9. , Alta Vista No. 357.—Benjamin F. Amsbury, Aug. 10. Tuion No. 358.—James H. Wood, Oct. 19. Sylvan Grove No. 359.—William T. Ward, Jan. 31. Geneseo No. 361.—M. J. Helmer, Aug. 19.
DEATHS—Continued. Valley Center No. Z6lf.—William B. Adamson, Feb. 21; Charles F. Wright, March 17; Elias L. Carnahan, March 20; Carey M. Hopkins, April 6; Fred Crist, July 30; Charles J. Grillenstein, Aug. 18; Samuel S. Splttler, Oct. 19. Baling No. 365.—William A. Seymour, Sr., April 9. Bonner Springs No. 366.—James Mann, Aug. 24; Lyman P.' Dedrick, Aug. 29; Frank Alden, Sept. 16; Peter Rome, Sept. 28. Roger E. Sherman No. 360.—Da-vid T. Cruden, May 6; Wallace Robert Green, May 31; Arthur E. Jehu, June 28; Fred E. Knox, July 29; John Wilson Peppard, Sept. 11. Morrill No. 373.—Eussell B. Gibbs, April 3. Grand View No. 376.—Ai Walton, Aug. 13. Zenda No. 378.—Elisha B. Cox, Sept. 21. ' Buffalo No. 379.—WilUam H. Haller, Nov. 1. White City No. 380.—Karl S. Flickinger, Oct. 6. Wilsey No. 382.—James O. Rochat, Nov. 16. Protidion No. 38li.—Ezra M. Blue, Aug. 28; Charles E, Logan, July 22. Piper No. 385.—Thurman B. Barker. Oct. 18. Emmett No. 387.—Lloyd S. Bittlor, Nov. 29; Stephen W. Ross, June 5. Fostoria No. 392.—John A. Shehi, July 15. Wakefield No. 396.—Edward P. Flannagan, Nov. 2; Calvin C. Roop, Jan. 19. Lindsborg No. 397.—Axel Wallerstedt, July 25; Allen Wilber, April 29. Hepler No. 398.—Harry H. Headrick, April 4. Melody No. JfOO.—Samuel A. Whitebread, Dec. 30. Kensington No. JfOS.—Henry F. Kienzle, Sept. 4. Scranton No. 407.—Daniel Easter, Jan. 13. , Ensign No. 413.—Clarence Holderness, Feb! 21. Morland No. 414-—Bob. C. Armstrong, Nov. 10; Sumner C. Johnson, April 9. Perry No. 415.—George W. Davis, Oct. 4. King David No. 4I6.—Harry S. Joyce, March 7; Levi Rosenthal, Jan. 17; Charles D. Wallace, April 26. Richmond No. 426.—Albert P. Chambers, Dec. 3. Bestor G. Brown No. 433.—William G. Norton, Dec. 25.
3lu iUpmortam.
A l b e r t 2I^Bli0
SPSSP,
JUNIOR GRAND WARDEN OF ALABAMA. Died May 19, 1924.
PAST GRAND TREASURER OF ARKANSAS. Died March 13, 1924.
iftinte& §>. S e a m y , PAST GRAND MASTER OF ARKANSAS. Died May 19, 1924.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF FLORIDA. Died November 7, 1923.
3ln lUfmnrtam.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF ILLINOIS. Died April 24, 1924.
PAST SENIOR GRAND WARDEN OF ILTINQIS Died September 24, 1924,
laaiUmm gi. pattnn, PAST GRAND MASTER OF MINNESOTA. Died November 29, 1923.
^snrii Mxlttm MusUv^ PAST GRAND MASTER OF MINNESOTA. Died January 7, 1924.
,
Sn m^moriatn.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF MISSISSIPPI. Died May 2, 1924.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF MISSISSIPPI. Died September 26, 1924.
KolTn Wialpij Parson, PAST GRAND MASTER OF MISSOURI. Died April 8, 1924.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF MISSOURI. Died September 1, 1924.
3ln HH^mnnam.
Alplia m o r g a n , PAST GRAND MASTER OF NEBRASKA. Died April 17, 1924.
d e o t g e Artt?ur iMorsatt, PAST GRAND MASTER OF NEVADA. Died September 19, 1923.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF NORTH DAKOTA. Died December 28, 1923.
J0aac SCtns^B, PAST GRAND MASTER OF OHIO. Died December 20, 1923.
in il^mnrtam.
GRAND SECRETARY OF OHIO. Died June 4, 1924.
^httsxn S^uiia S a b a r s ^ r , PAST GRAND MASTER OF OHIO. Died June 26, 1924.
ifatnes
Sl^tufa,
PAST GRAND MASTER OF SOUTH DAKOTA. Died September 13, 1924.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF SOUTH DAKOIA. Died October 23, 1924.
I
] 3 n iJEpmortam.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF SOUTH DAKOTA. Died October 30, 1924.
5Baut& iFranklin Kotinaon, PAST GRAND MASTER OF TEXAS. Died July 27, 1924.
Knl^n Wave ©^rrsU, PAST GRAND MASTER OF TEXAS. Died October 31, 1924.
€tt|onta0 SJ^tumatt iBaute, PAST GRAND MASTER OF VIRGINIA. Died May 4, 1924.
iJIIrattk 2iurt, PAST GRAND MASTER OF WEST VIRGINIA. Died May 22, 1924.
APPENDIX.
REPORT ON CORRESPONDENCE. BY A L B E R T
K . WILSON, CHAIRMAN.
To the M:.W.'.Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: In the following report the writer has endeavored as far as possible to withhold comment, preferring to quote liberally from Grand Masters' addresses, orations and the reports of standing arid special committees. In several instances, however, it was necessary to "back fire" in order to make ourselves plain and not be misunderstood in dealing with important matters before some of the Grand Lodges. We have noted particularly the Reports on Correspondence and especially references to the severing of our fraternal relations with the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire. This subject, however, we cover under a separate head in the introduction to this report. I t will be observed from an examination of the statistical tables a t the end of this report, that without a single exception there has been a net gain in membership in all Grand Jurisdictions, both in and outside of this country. Fraternally submitted, ALBERT K .
WILSON,
Chairman.
NEW HAMPSHIRE. In preparing the following review particular attention was paid t o that portion of the reports of the Committees on Correspondence under Kansas, and especially the reference, if any, to the withdrawal of our fraternal relations with the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire, as shown on pages 294 to 297 and 409 and 410 of our 1923 Proceedings. So far as our Grand Lodge is concerned the incident is closed; .however, in view of the opinions expressed by a number of the writers. of the Reports on Correspondence we feel justified in once more defend-
4
CORRESPONDENCE—NEW
HAMPSHIRE.
February,
ing our position and making reply to the comments of some of the reviewers in passing judgment, based not only on a misunderstanding of the facts, but without having even carefully read those portions of our Proceedings dealing with this subject. We can best explain this matter by classifying these Reviewers into three divisions: First, those who refer to the withdrawal without any comments or suggestions: Second, those who evidently read that portion of the address of our Grand Master dealing with this subject and the special report of the Committee on Correspondence, and expressed an opinion in support of the action taken by our Grand Lodge: Third, those who assumed to have a full knowledge of the facts, although their comments indicated beyond a question of doubt that they had read this subject in a most indifferent and careless manner, and presumed to analyze the proposition assuming there had been correspondence between the Grand Masters of the two jurisdictions, failing to note that the Grand Master of New Hampshire, M.'.W.". WALTEE
G . AFRICA,
totally ignored the fraternal
communications
addressed to him by our Grand Master. Concerning the first division we have but little to say except these references were entirely too brief and really conveyed no information to the reader who had no knowledge of the facts. Those writers placed under the second division had evidently analyzed the matter most carefully and expressed their opinion in no uncertain terms—that the position taken by the Grand Lodge of Kansas was not only right but that we were compelled to do so in support of our laws and regulations, and further that our action was in thorough accord with the prevailing regulations concerning visitation throughout this and other countries. As to the first two divisions the writer has nothing further to offer, as their reports on the subject were conclusive that they had carefully considered the proposition and in the first case felt that an extended reference was unnecessary, and in the latter that Kansas was acting absolutely within her rights. The third division, however, cannot be passed unnoticed. We concede to every brother the right of an adverse opinion if in expressing it he shows a distinct understanding of the subject in question and a familiarity with the facts. To emphasize the views taken by brethren in this division we refer to a report written by a Past Grand Master of one of the larger jurisdictions, who devoted about four pages of his review of Kansas to this subject, and with but few exceptions every paragraph indicated beyond a question of doubt that he had not carefully read this subject as shown in our 1923 Proceedings. His reference was based on an understanding t h a t all correspondence between the two Grand Jurisdictions had been conducted between the Grand Masters. This, and a number of other comments showed very plainly that he was passing judgment in a case which had never been tried in his court, or in other words, it was based
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—NEW HAMPSHIRE.
5
wholly on an indifferent and careless reading of the subject, thereby giving no consideration whatever to the facts. A number of reviewers used as a defense t h a t visitation was not a right but simply an act of courtesy. This statement carries with it a n admission of a lack of knowledge as to what the Landmarks are, and especially the one referring to the right of visitation. With but very few exceptions there is not a single compilation of the Landmarks of Freemasonry by Masonic scholars which does not contain this particular Landmark, which specifically provides that it is the right of every Mason to visit and sit in every regular lodge, E X C E P T when such visit is likely to disturb the harmony of the lodge. This Landmark, by some eminent Masonic scholars, further provides that once a person becomes a Mason he then belongs to the universal Masonic family. Our brethren who take the position that there is no right of visitation must of necessity disclaim this particular Landmark, and if that be the case then why not disclaim all the others? Our Grand Lodge subscribes to the Landmarks as interpreted b y MACKEY, and in this particular case we claim that visitation is a right; however, we accept the balance of the same Landmark and provide that where such visit will disturb the harmony of the lodge the right to visit be denied. This is plainly set out on page 104 of our 1913 Laws^ and reads as follows: "While the right of every regular Mason in good standing (who can satisfactorily prove himself such) to visit and sit in any regular Lodge is, we believe,, a Landmark of Masonry, this must always be considered in connection with t h e undoubted prerogative of each Master to exclude any one, not a member, whose presence is in his judgment likely to disturb the harmony of his Lodge."
The foregoing, so far as the Landmarks are concerned, has nothing whatever to do with the action taken by the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire, as there was no question raised that the presence of a Kansas Mason as a visitor would disturb the harmony of any lodge, but they were denied admission because the documentary evidence authorized by the Grand Lodge of Kansas was not satisfactory to the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire. As we are well aware, the requiring of documentary evidence when visiting lodges is of very recent origin and was instituted by most Grand Lodges for no other purpose than that of keeping out of the lodges all who were unworthy. I n adopting this regulation each Grand Lodge authorized such form of document as it deemed best, and it is doubtful whether any two Grand Jurisdictions prescribe the same form. Prior to the adoption of our Official Receipt our lodges had been issuing various forms of diplomas, certificates of standing and the like. Such documents were not for any specified period, but could be used indefinitely. In order, therefore, to protect the Craft as far as possible, all such forms were discontinued and our present Official Receipt, (issued only by the Grand Lodge and through the office of the Grand Secretary), was then adopted. These receipts contain on the front the
6
CORRESPONDENCE—"ON
DIT."
February,
usual form with the name, number and location of the lodge printed thereon, the signature of the Secretary and the brother to whom issued, and the lodge seal. On the back there is a certificate as to the regular standing of the lodge, with a facsimile of the seal of the Grand Lodge and the signature of the Grand Secretary. A certificate or receipt for dues is a proper legal document, and when signed by the Secretary of a lodge and sealed by him has as full force as if the Grand Lodge certificate, signature of the Grand Secretary, and seal of the Grand Lodge on the back were actual instead of facsimile. Such receipts in most cases, are only good for one year, or up to the time the brother's dues are paid. Therefore in all cases of suspension or expulsion the one so disciplined cannot resort to the use of one of the old forms of certificates or diplomas to impose upon lodges, hence our present form of re-, ceipt is much more desirable than the ordinary certificate or diploma. In some jurisdictions, including our own, some lodges, under certain conditions, issue life membership cards which in effect and for all practical purposes, are the same as our Official Receipt. Instead of 4he amount of money paid being indicated on the front there is inserted 4he words "Life Member;" however, on the back, the usual certificate •of the Grand Secretary is printed or engraved. To be consistent our New Hampshire brethren must absolutely irefuse to admit as a visitor any brother from another Grand Juris-diction unless that particular jurisdiction has authorized the exact ioTva. of documentary evidence demanded by the Grand Lodge of New . Hampshire. Our Grand Lodge, as a sovereign and independent body, has exericised its right in issuing this particular form of documentary evidence a n d in the recognized comity between Grand Lodges we are entitled to full faith and credit to our acts in the matter.
"ON DIT." Under this heading Brother JAMES S . MACEWING, chairman of the Committee on Correspondence of the Grand Lodge of Manitoba, has the following to say as an introduction to his report, and the writer has taken the liberty of quoting it, knowing full well it will be interesting to our readers as it is in harmony with the policy of our Grand Lodge covering the various subjects to which reference is made. Masonry and Masonic practices have heretofore been rougtily divided into three groups, viz: Anglo-Saxon, Latin and Germanic.—The first dominating •where the English language is spoken and noted for its works of benevolence, general fraternity and good fellowsMp.—The second addicted to political intermeddling and under cover of the lodge accused of carrying on intrigues against the government in power or a dominant and antagonistic church.—The third coldly philosophical in its attitude. It woxUd appear as though to these we would i a v e to add another group by sub-dividing the Anglo-Saxon group in order to
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—"ON
DIT."
7.
catalogue Masonic practices, as I note them in so many of the Jurisdictions to the Immediate South of us. Our Bretliren of the United States of America are outstanding in their benevolence, lavish in their hospitality and stroiig for many of the best traditions of our Craft, but apparently inclined to follow "strange gods." Banging themselves under a banner on which is inscribed " Masonry is a Progressive Science" (although Masonry is the very antithesis of that, both by its traditions and that indefinable appeal it makes to the average man) we find Grand Lodges in the United States passing resolutions in favor of, and even in-. Etructing their members to support certain Federal Legislation being proposed, although the claim is made by many that the proposed law is political not only in its inception but method of handling. Some Grand Lodges granting Scholarships and a resolution being considered by one for the establishing of schools by our Order for the purpose of affording higher education to the children of Masons. In one Jurisdiction a committee was appointed to compile a course of reading lessons for the use of the third to the eighth grades of their common or public schools. Psuedo-masonry ranging from the "kindergarten DeMolay" t o "Playgrounds" for our grownup boys. Branching off from these again we find Masonic clubs, one of which is erecting a hotel in Philadelphia, while another club announces its intention to build a hotel in New York. In addition to all this hodge-podge there are the side-orders for the wives, sisters and daughters of Masons, until the parent body begins to look like a porcupine. Questionnaires for prospective candidates are becoming very popular, b u t whereas the outward physical fitness and the inward moral condition were formerly the committee's only care; enough questions are now asked by many lodges, delving into the candidate's private affairs, to satisfy a "Guarantee Company" or secure a fifty thousand dollar insurance policy. About the only question not asked on some of these forms is "What are your politics?" Physical qualifications seem to be a perenniel question, but the following from Mississippi covering this and similar matters seems very pertinent; * " It is clearly obvious to the minds of your committee from many of the questions.asked with reference to jurisdiction, physical qualifications, and other similar points, which in our judgment seeks to invade the Landmarks of Free Masonry, that some of the brethren are more interested In finding a way around the strict construction of the law, rather than to accept the plain stern meaning of Masonic law, to-wlt: that every human being is not eligible to the rights and benefits of Masonry no matter how anxious that human being may be to get into the lodge. And if we are right in that conclusion we feel that this policy of straining both the spirit and the letter of the law to get some particular individual into the lodge ought to be discouraged by ail well informed brethren." As chips thrown into a stream indicate which way the current sets, so comments in many cases show the trend of thought on certain subjects: " T h e DeMolays of today will be our Masons of tomorrow, and we should encourage and aid in every way possible this Order and the boys who are interested. Boys that belong to the DeMolay, are looking forward to becoming Masons, and the impressions that are being made upon their minds now are molding their future thought toward Masonry."
" T o the writer it is a serious thing that this organization should be used as a 'feeder' for Masonry, a "left handed' way of soliciting membership, something which we are absolutely prohibited from doing for ourselves. " It is not at all probable that the founders of the institution so planned it, but It is absolutely inevitable that it wiU be so used. This is especially true In view of the fact that DeMolay takes in friends of the sons of Masons whose own families are not Masonic. This has been pointed out to the writer a num-
8
COBBESPONDENCE—ALABAMA.
February,
ber.of times, by brother Masons, as a point of utility of the order and we are eatisfled from our own experience t h a t it is so looked upon by many. " I n a recent number of the Iowa Masonic Library BuVetirt we find a picture of five very fine looking young men, brothers, who took the degrees of Masonry together. The article stated t h a t one of the boys had been a 'DeMolay' and 'was instrumental in bringing his brothers Into the Fraternity.' I t is a direct illustration of what will become, unless some very stringent measures are taken, a regular practice."
"There is an ever increasing organization of new societies that are endeavoring to hitch their handsleds to the Masonic bobsled. The train has become a long one and t h e driver of the bob may have to heed the admonition and "whip behind.' Every attempt to do so, however, meets with a howl of protest on the part of the friends of the youngsters who prefer t o see them dragged up the hill, even a t the expense of the vehicle t h a t is dragging the entire load. We hope they may n o t become so numerous as to stall the team." Fiuiiher comment would seem t o be unnecessary. Masonic clubs are all the rage now, so if you cannot spring a new side-crder start a club. There are Past Masters' Associations, Wardens' Associations, Senior Deacons' Clubs, Fellowcraft Clubs, also High Twelve, Low Twelve, Acacia, Level. Square and Compass, National League of Masonic Clubs, International High Twelve Clubs and Blue Lodge Councils. Certain of these clubs have requested permission to exemplify degrees in their club rooms for practice, which'would seem to be only a step from conferring degrees, and the actions of many of these clubs (who in t h e public mind are associated with Freemasonry) have been the subject of adverse comment in several jurisdictions. I t would appear as though we had "sown the wind" and were now "reaping the whirlwind," caused by a mass of uneducated and undigested material, for which we can thank those Grand Masters who issue blanket dispensations to permit the shortening of time between degrees, or for the purpose of increasing the nurnber of candidates upon whom the degrees can be conferred in one night; upon the application of lodges who act as though they were afraid the candidates might kick in t h e front door unless "railroaded" through. The consequent result apparently being that we have a padded list of members and a meagre list of Masons. While doubtless doing good in " s p o t s " still it is very evident that these side-issues all tend to lower t h e dignity of Masonry and blur the vision of our ideals, while a t the same time they scatter our Masonic force by destroying its solidarity.
ALABAMA—1923. Lodges, 584; members, 50,126; net gain, 2,000. Athens, December 5,1923. JULIAN F . SPEARMAN, M . - . W . ' . Grand
Master. The affairs of Kansas were looked after at this Annual Conimunication b y our Grand Representative, Brother JOHN PHILIP MELVIN.
On opening the Proceedings we come face to face with Brother GEORGE A. BEAUCHAMP, their Grand Secretary, which is accompanied
by a biographical sketch, thereby placing on permanent record a brief account of the life and Masonic career of this distinguished member.
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—ALABAMA.
9
T h e G r a n d M a s t e r , in presenting his address, a m o n g other t h i n g s h a s t h e following t o s a y in regard t o his offlcial career a s G r a n d M a s t e r : It has afforded me an avenue for service that could not possibly be reached by any other channel. Universal liindness and consideration has been shown me throughout my offlcial career. The old friends that I have had the pleasure of associating with and the new ones that I have made are memories too sweet to be erased by the passing years. Masonry stands for all that is good and great in our national life and I consider it a great privilege to be numbered as a member of tills sacred band. I n my visitations I have gone to practically every section of tills Grand Jurisdiction, but was forced to decline many, many invitations, all of which were duly appreciated. As a m a t t e r of interest t o our own lodges, which were punished o n a c c o u n t of holding their election a t a t i m e other t h a n t h a t provided b y law, we quote t h e following: On June 16,1 arrested the charter of Deatsville Lodge No. 475, on account of the Senior Warden who was ex-ofQcio Master at the time taliing snap judgment and holding election of officers prior to the constitutional time. The "Worshipful Master of said lodge was not able t o be present a t the time t h e election was held and he was not in the least held responsible. On July 6, I visited this lodge, on which occasion most all the membership was present. They made acltnowledgment of the error that they made and I gave them authority to resume their communications and granted them a special dispensation to hold another election of officers, declaring the first election void. During t h e year t h e G r a n d Lodge sustained t h e loss of two of their Past
Grand
Masters,
DANIEL
ARTHUR
GREENE
and
B E N MOSES
JACOBS.
Under t h e subject of " M a s o n i c H o m e " t h e G r a n d M a s t e r m a k e s t h e following r e c o m m e n d a t i o n : I recommend that the Board of Trustees not admit any more old persons to the Home unless absolutely necessary, that instead, the old that are entitled to our protection and care be talien care of at their respective homes from the Grand Master's Emergency Fund. W e believe t h e G r a n d M a s t e r is n o t only right in this instance, b u t a s a general proposition t h e writer believes t h a t t h e old b r o t h e r , his wife or widow would b e more comfortable a n d satisfied if t h e y were looked after b y t h e G r a n d Lodge a t their own h o m e s . U n d e r " D e c i s i o n s " t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ruled t h a t applicants for transfer of membership m a y a p p l y t o lodges in other Grand J u r i s dictions, providing t h e y h a v e t h e s a m e m e t h o d — t h a t is t h r o u g h a s y s t e m known as Certificates for Transfer. W e often wonder w h y a decision of this kind is approved, as i t could n o t b e m a d e t o a p p l y in a n o t h e r G r a n d Jurisdiction w i t h o u t their consent. W e practice this s y s t e m in our own G r a n d Jurisdiction, b u t our laws forbid a n y lodge accepting such a certificate from some other G r a n d Jurisdiction. I m m e d i a t e l y following t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s address t h e y were honored w i t h t h e presence of M .•. W.'. B r o t h e r A L E X A N D E R B . A N D R E W S , P a s t G r a n d Master of N o r t h Carolina. W e also n o t e t h a t t h e y were
10
COBBESPONDENCE—ALABAMA.
February,
honored with the presence of the Grand Master of the Grand Council and the Deputy of the Supreme Council of the Southern Jurisdiction of the Scottish Rite, all of which is very good and speaks well for the unity of the brethren in Alabama. However, we are a little surprised at their receiving at the same time, and with the above dignitaries, the " Monarch" of what they term the " Grotto." We wonder whether our Alabama brethren have been neglected by the other twenty or more similar organizations which are floating over the country. We notice, however, that immediately following the introduction of the distinguished representative of the Grotto, the lodge was called to refreshment and recognition was extended to the Grand Matron of the Eastern Star. I t is evident that Brother BBAUCHAMP and the other members of the Grand Lodge are not unmindful of the ladies. During the year the lodges were called upon to vote on several amendments to the Constitution and make due report. The law provides that in all cases where lodges fail to make such reports the Master shall be summoned to appear before Grand Lodge at its next Communication. The report of the Grand StWretary shows that eighteen of their lodges failed in this particular and the matter was referred to a special committee and it appears from their report that six of the eighteen offered as excuses carelessness of their secretaries to make proper return. The committee then calls attention to the importance of selecting an efficient brother for secretary, and accepts the excuses as adequate and nothing further is done. The remainder of the lodges are given an order to appear at the next Annual Communication. Our law in Kansas is quite similar to the one in Alabama; however, in all cases where lodges have failed to comply with the law they were puiiished, regardless of any excuse they " t r u m p e d " up. We wish space would permit of reprinting the several reports dealing with their Masonic Home. This institution is under the control of a Board of Trustees and the Superintendent is required to make a detailed report to Grand Lodge. This report shows they had at the time of preparing it, some 369 members. The total expense for the year was $78,805.77, or a cost per capita per month of $17.81. The Superintendent covers in his report an account of the deaths, their infirmary, medical care, dental department, the school, college boys and girls, Sunday school and Christian Endeavor Society, band, the farm, and then follows with several recommendations, concluding with a very intelligent account of the cost of operation. Much credit is due to their Superintendent, Brother GEORGE H . THIGPEN for this report. I t requires more than eleven pages to record the donations to the Home by the Eastern Star Chapters. In addition to this he includes an itemized statement of cash donations received from Lodges, Chapters, Commanderies, Councils, Shrine, Eastern Star, County Conferences, and what he terms a Pleasure Fund and Christmas
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—ALABAMA.
.
11
Donations. A summing up of the valuation of the Home shows that the total amount is $381,247.50. The Report on Correspondence was again presented by Brother FRED WALL. As a preliminary to his report he pleads guilty of neglect in the following words: Being a young attorney, with a family to support, and possessing only a modest amount of the world's goods, I have neglected this important duty until this late day, and I now understand from our beloved Grand Secretary that the printer will soon be clamoring for this report. He then pays proper respect to several brethren who preceded him in this work, naming Brothers WILLIAM Y A T E S TITCOMB, JOHN P I L LANs, N .
L. N E W H I N N E Y and
OLIVER D A Y S T R E E T .
We are quite certain our members will be interested in his reference to operative Masonry and its application to the famous Wilson Dam, and we therefore quote the following: As speculative Masons, and being largely indebted to the ancient teachings of operative Masonry, we should not be unmindful of the workings of the operative Mason of today. Especially should this be true if his work is of national scope and for the National Government. Therefore, deviating from the beaten path, as a novice is likely to do, and without discussing any political phase of the subject, but with the sole purpose of giving some historical and scientific facts, which I feel that our brethren in other jurisdictions may appreciate, !• venture to state: In less than three years Wilson Dam will be complete, audits giant turbines will be generating electricity, according to plans. The Government has in this district at present an Investment of more than $150,000,000, and it must spend at least Jf20,000,000more in completion of Wilson Dam. Anchored deep in the rock of both banks of the river bed, and emerging from the waters like some monster of a mythological age, is Wilson Dam, now under construction across the Tennessee River, in Northern Alabama, at the foot of Muscle Shoals. When completed, the great structure will stand as a lasting monument to the skill of man in dominating the elements about him and subjecting them to his will.Wilson Dam is to be a monolithic masterpiece. The mighty barrier to stay the power of rushing waters in their wasteful course over impassable shoals, is rising slowly, block by block. Its purpose is to talvo from the stream energy which is expected to revolutionize Southern industry. Thousands of workmen are' engaged In the construction of what is regarded as the greatest engineering project since the Panama Canal. To hasten its completion the work is carried on day and night with three shifts of workmen.^ Power-house construction is rapidly assuming form that will enable it to turn water power into electrical energy. Maximum horse-power to be produced by the plant is estimated at 600,000, to be available only about two and onehalf months of the year, but the primary power, given as 100,000 horsepower, will be available more than ninety per cent, of the year. An estimated total of 207,000 horsepower will be available at all times, if all power resources are to be put to use. Eighteen generators are being installed at the power plant. Water will pour into these through the three pen-stock openings of each generator to be utilized In production of power, and flow from the turbine chambers through the draft tubes In the concrete base, back into its natural course along the river bank. More than a mile of concrete wall will span the river when the dam Is complete. This impounding of the waters will flood the shoals for fifteen miles
12
CORRESPONDENCE—ALBERTA.
February,
upstream, making a pool from one to five miles in width, and flooding a total of 14,000 acres. The flow of the stream not passing through the powerhouse will be automatically regulated to maintain the pool at a uniform navigation, except during periods of heavy rainfall; then stationa,ry gates will be operated to effect t h e desired discharge and prevent overflow.
Our 1923 Proceedings are included in his report, and we are under obligations to him for a liberal amount of space, which includes some of the more important transactions of our Grand Lodge. After looking over his report carefully we are wilhng to be one of his recommenders for admission to " T h e Mutuals." DUNCAN G. GARMICHAEL, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Dothan. GEORGE A. BEAUCHAMP, R . - . W . ' . Grand Secretary, Montgomery. F E E D WALL, Correspondent, Athens.
Next Annual, Montgomery, December 2, 1924.
ALBERTA —1924. Lodges, 132; members, 12,017; net gain, 277. Medicine Hat, June 11, 1924.
GEORGE MURRAY, M.-.W.'.Grand
Master. M.'.W.'. Brother S. J. BLAIR, our Grand Representative, was
present. We quote the following explanation and advice from the preface to the Grand Master's address: If the rulings of the' Grand Master have not at all times met with your approval, please remember that he has striven to carry out the provisions of the Constitution, by wUch he and all Masons are bound, and to promote the best interests of Freemasonry. I n this connection let me enjoin all Masons, and especially Masters of lodges, to familiarize themselves with the provisions of the book of Constitutions. By reason of t h e failure t o do so, considerable unnecessary correspondence was entailed upon the Grand Secretary and myself. I t is very gratifying that, having passed ever the peak of abnormal activity, our Fraternity is adjusting Itself to a more healthy basis on which to work and the lodges are putting into practice more than ever before the subUme principles taught in our charges and lectures and working toward the strengthening and building up of the spirit of Freemasonry.
The Grand Master is to be complimented on visiting the lodges of their jurisdiction in the far north. To accomplish this he was compelled to travel hundreds of miles overland and face a great deal of disagreeable weather. We have no doubt his trip was one which will lend encouragement to the brethren in that far off section of their jurisdiction and will add zeal to the lodges for many years to come. During the year Letters of Dispensation were issued for the establishment of two new lodges, one of which is to be located in the city of Calgary. This lodge has arranged for an address to be delivered on some Masonic subject at each of its meetings. We offer this as a
1924-25.
CoBBESPONDENCE—ARIZONA.
13
suggestion to the new lodges established from time to time in our own jurisdiction. The librarian, Brother S. Y. TAYLOR, submits an interesting report, concluding with a complete catalog of all books in their possession. These books are classified under six heads as follows: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Masonic History, Encyclopaedias and Other General Works. Eltual of Freemasonry. Philosophy of Freemasonry. Symbolism of Freemasonry. Jurisprudence and Law.
This arrangement is similar to the catalog in our own Grand Lodge Library, and makes it very easy to find subjects under these various heads. M.'.W.'. Brother S. F . SELWOOD, chairman of the Committee on Correspondence, includes with his report a review of our 1923 Proceedings. HORACE P . R E I D , M . ' . W . - . Grand Master, Edmonton.
S. Y. TAYLOR, R.-.W.". Grand Secretary, Calgary. F . S. SELWOOD, P.*. G . \ M . \ , Correspondent.
Next Annual, Edmonton, June 10, 1925.
ARIZONA—1924. Lodges, 33; members, 5,444; net gain, 304. Globe, February 12, 1924. SIDNEY SAPP, M.-.W.-.Grand Master.
We are pleased to note that our Grand Representative, M.\W.". JAMES H E N E Y BARRETT, was present.
There first appears in the Proceedings the minutes of a Special Communication held at Winslow, Sunday, October 14, 1923, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the Masonic Temple. We observe that our Arizona brethren are not quite so technical as we are in Kansas, as they permit a ceremony of this kind on Sunday. Winslow—how well the writer calls to mind a visit to Winslow Lodge in 1904. We can now see the lodge room which was very tastefully furnished, and likewise the somewhat cramped banquet room in which we enjoyed a splendid feast In the evening. Wefurther distinctly call to mind the pleasure of meeting many of the wives and daughters of the members, and can further see, in our mind's eye, a line of " r e freshments" now prohibited under the famous Eighteenth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States. At that time we were really enjoying our "personal liberty" guaranteed to us under this same Constitution. However, this is one of the elements of the so-called progressive ideas, and as good citizens we must conform to the laws of our land.
14
COBBESPONDENCE—AniZONA.
February,
From the address of the Grand Master a t the Annual Communication we take pleasure in quoting the following: I think we are to be congratulated upon the wonderful work of Masonry especially in the United States, and while Masonry is universal, and at this time in some form or other, the Masonic Lodge is teaching brotherly love and respect for one another in all parts of the world. I n the United States membership in Masonry has increased beyond all expectations and the increase of membership, I believe, has also increased the character. I t has been my great privilege to come in contact with many Masons in our jurisdiction as well as with many outside our Grand Jurisdiction. I t is interesting to observe from this excellent address that he visited every lodge in their jurisdiction. Under the subject of " S t u d y Club," we submit the following: During my visitations I learned that a great many of the Lodges were holding Interesting and profitable Study Club meetings which were doing good work. I n other places I found they were not working or were not paying any attention to this part of Masonry, and I recommend that all Lodges organize Study Clubs and devote a t least one meeting a month to this work. Under "Physical Qualifications," he has the following t o say which would rather indicate that he is extremely liberal on the " physical" but unrelenting on the mental and moral qualifications: Inasmuch as we are not operative Masons, and not entirely depending upon our bodies and limbs for support and advancement, I suggest we look to the Mental as well as to the Moral and Physical Qualifications. From t h e Grand Secretary's report it seems a copper plate was properly inscribed for deposit at the Washington Memorial corner-stone exercises, containing the names of the several Grand Bodies, t h e executive heads and the Grand Secretary and Grand Recorder. I n addition to this the emblems of the five bodies were made a part of t h e inscription. The brethren were permitted to listen to an excellent oration delivered by Brother JAMES RAYMOND MALOTT, and from which we take pleasure in quoting the following: There are those in our ranks who feel that Masonry is political in character. They can read from our ritual a theory of political science, that of the eccuality of man, and they point out that the organization has ever stood for that political doctrine and t h a t its members, especially during our own Revolution, were in the front fighting for the establishment of that political theory. They contend, therefore, that as an organization we should take an active part in political affairs to the end-that Masonic principles be maintained and safe-guarded. But they are handicapped by the Landmarks of fraternity. We are taught to eliminate from our lodge rooms discussions, questions of poUtical or factional nature so that no concerted action can be taken along political lines. And when we recall the bitter experience which followed the one invasion of Masonry into political affairs (after the so-caUed Morgan incident), we can but admit t h e wisdom of our founders and leaders in prohibiting the entrance of the Fraternity as an organization into political matters. Many of our members feel that Masonry should devote more of its time and energies toward charities. I t has ever been known as a charitable organization and charity is one of the principle tenets of the Order. We have built homes
1924-25.
CoBBESPONDENCE—ARKANSAS.
15
to care for the aged and schools to care for the orphans, yet we all know t h a t as an organization our dues do not permit the Fraternity as such to engage extensively in charitable work. We seek to include men of all classes in our ranks and let them carry an equal financial burden within the reach of all so that none of our members may acquire or seek to acquire a position of prominence by means of large gifts or contributions to the Fraternity as an organization. T h a t fact alone makes it impossible for the Fraternity to engage extensively in charitable work. And on the few occasions where we have concertedly engaged in certain charitable work along one line, tbere have been ten other charities t h a t we have regarded as of almost equal importance.
But we must all realize that in the accomplishment of that object there is a place for the lodge and a place for the lodge member. The lodge can deal with Its members only, except in those instances where our charitable activities may be extended t o their widows and orphans. The individual Mason, however, has no such limitations and since we seek the improvement along varied lines of not only Masons but society a t large; since Masonry regards not only all Masons as brothers but all mankind as brothers, the great bulk of mankind must be helped if at all, by our members acting as individuals. When we analyze tho Masonic achievements of the past, even during the Revolution, we find for t h e most part that they- have not been due to any action of a lodge or any Grand Lodge. The greatness of our organization is largely due to the achievements of its individual members who through their lives and service for the public, have applied the lessons that have been received from the organization. The work of the individual Mason may differ.' Some of the members of the Craft have devoted their time and energy to the Fraternity itself as an organization. These a r o t h e men who act as oiHcers of our lodge, learn the work, study the history and traditions of the Order that they may spread its teachings. To them we must pay tribute for through them Masonry as we know it has survived throughout centuries. I t is evident t h a t our Arizona brethren do not propose t o play favorites with the various so-called Masonic Grand Bodies of Mexico, as through the report of a committee on Mexican Masonry they extended fraternal recognition to a Grand Lodge known as the Grand Lodge of the Pacific, which completes their recognition of everything termed Masonic in t h a t Republic. There, is no Report on Correspondence. OTIS J. BAUGHN, M.-. W.*. Grand Master, Phoenix. GEORGE J. ROSKRUGE, R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary, Tucson. Next Annual, Phoenix, February 10, 1925.
ARKANSAS —1923. Lodges, 458; members, 33,112; net gain, 634. Little Rock, November 22, 1923. JOHN Q . WOLF, M . - . W . ' . Grand Master. These Proceedings are unusual in that they do not contain a synopsis of returns, showing the amount of work accomplished by the lodges during the past year. The summary of membership does not indicate the number on the rolls one year ago, or the net gain.
16
COBBESPONDENCE^ARKANSAS.
February,
M.-.W.-. Brother Louis BAUBRLEIN, our Grand Representative, was present. The Grand Master in presenting his address, has the following to say in regard to the destruction of their forrner Temple, and the quarters they are now occupying: Brethren, it Is good to be here. This is a high day in Zion; it is a high day in the history of Masonry in Arkansas. A few years ago our Temple, hallowed by many sacred and tender memories and sweet associations, went up in smoke. But behold! a nobler and a grander one has taken its place, and we are once more a t home. Brethren, for five years we have been without a home. Today, by the providence and favor of GOD, our Supreme Grand Master, we are once more at home. And see what a goodly home it is I The bosom of every Mason should swell with pride, the heart of every Mason should glow with joy as we behold the beauty and the glory of this splendid Temple, and contemplate its meaning t o us and to oiu' posterity and think upon it as our home. For five years we have been in exile; now we are a t home. " A n exile from home, splendor dazzles in vain; O, give me my lowly-thatched cottage again; The birds singing gaily, that came at my call. Give me them and that peace-of-mind, dearer than all. Home, home, sweet, sweet home. Be it ever so humble, there's no place like home." The Grand Master believes in throwing his bouquets at a deserving brother rather than place them on his bier, and we take pleasure in quoting the following, having reference to their own CHAKLIE ROSENBAUM:
EMEBSON said that every great organization, every great institution, is the lengthened shadow of some man. I t is so with this splendid Masonic Temple— It is the Jengthened shadow of a man. I t is the dream, the ideal, the creation, the achievement, and living reality of one man, a man who stands foiu'-square to every wind t h a t blows; a wise builder, a safe leader, a loyal citizen, a faithful friend, and a true brother. A man whom Masons delight to honor. I do not need to mention his name, for every heart in this great audience turns instinctively t o blm, CHARLES E . BOSENBAUM.
Americans do not go very strong on hero worship, but they love to do honor to the man of worth and achievement. And Masons love to honor the man "whose modesty bespeaks his merit," whose sterling character, and unselfish, sacriflcial labors in behalf of our Fraternity set him apart as one altogether worthy of our love, and praise, and devotion. We who have known Brother ROSENBAUM for many years join with the Grand Master in these kind words. While it is unusual for a Grand Master to include a subject of this kind in his address, yet we are constrained to believe that it is mighty good doctrine and worthy of repeating: I t is no longer obedient children, b u t obedient parents. Fathers and mothers no longer have the courage to assert their authority and enforce discipline in the home. They yield t o every whim and caprice and notion of their children, thinking they are making life easy for them, whereas, they are making
1924-25.
CoBBESPONDENCE—ARKANSAS.
17
it desperately hard. I t is too much trouble to undertake to train and teach the children, hence, right early this is all left to the Sunday school teacher and the day teacher, and children grow up to do about as they please so far as their' parents are concerned. Moreover, there is an idiotic doctrine being seriously promulgated by a certain school of psychology professors, to the effect that it is wrong to prejudice the minds of children by teaching them moral and spiritual truths; that children should not be trained up in the way they should go, thus relegating SOLOMON to the realm of the old fogy and the ignoramus. They tell us our children should be left free to think their own thoughts, reach their own conclusions, live their own lives, and work out their own destinies, free and untrammeled, and tmfettered, and unprejudiced; that the child should be allowed "self-expression," as they term it. They insist that right and wrong are only mental states, and that, as a matter of fact, everything is all right with the world anyhow, whereas, brethren, we know it isn't so, and we know if this fool doctrine should be generally accepted, the devil would take the country in short order. The Grand Master was obliged to take the bitter with the sweet, as it became necessary for him to suspend two Masters from office. He closes his address with an exhortation on the Eighteenth Amendment. Further than this, he recommends t h a t the Grand Lodge take action on prohibiting the use of narcotics. We may be a little old fashioned; however, we cannot get away from the idea that a glass of good; cool beer, when the mercury is floating around the hundred degree mark,'is mighty refreshing. He includes a copy of the memorial to the memory of their late M.'.W.-. Brother GEORGE THORNBURG, who passed to his reward on March 9, 1923. The Grand Secretary reports the removal of his office to the new Temple, and we sincerely hope that he may live long to enjoy these quarters. FAY is deserving of all the good things the brethren of Arkansas can bestow upon him. We note in the report of the auditor of their Masonic Home, t h a t during the fourteen years this institution has been in operation they have never had a death. The chairman of their Committee on Correspondence presents a somewhat unique and interesting report, and we wonder how he reconciles his position with the efforts being put forth by the several Grand Lodges in what is ordinarily termed " Masonic Ediication." We quote the following: For some time past we have known that correspondents of other Grand Jurisdictions have found fault with Arkansas because we have not made and published a review of their Proceedings, telling of what they have done. We find that practically all the Grand Lodges affiliated with this Grand Lodge, make such reports by states and we fully intended to do so this year, but we have not done so for several reasons. First, because to the best of our knowledge there is not to exceed an average of over two men in each of our lodges who ever read the Proceedings of the Grand Lodge, and we felt that for us to write up 75 or 100 pages extra for the Grand Lodge to print and pay for and which would not be read by perhaps more than 50 or 100 men In the State, would be a waste of money which could be p u t to a better use.
18
CORRESPONDENCE—BRITISH
COLUMBIA.
February,
His statement in regard to the number of members in their own jurisdiction who possibly read the Report on Correspondence certainly does not reflect the proportionate number in our own jurisdiction. F. W. HARRIS, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Mammoth Springs. FAY HEMPSTEAD, R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary, Little Rock.
A. M. FORBY, Correspondent, Fort Smith. Next Annual, Little Rock, November 14,1924.
BRITISH COLUMBIA —1924. Lodges, 112; members, 12,775; net gain, 682. Vancouver, June 19, 1924.
CHARLES E . TISDALL, M.-.W.'.Grand
Master. M.-.W.-. Brother ANDREW McC. CHEERY, our Grand Representative, was present. The Grand Master in submitting his address first extends a welcome to t h e brethren on behalf of the Grand Lodge and the city of Vancouver, and then refers in a touching manner to the passing away of Past Grand Master R. E D E N WALKER.
He offers the following few words as an explanation why a number of their members are not present: Meeting as we do in the midst of a Provincial Election at which many of our members are either candidates, or otherwise active participants in, our attendance is no doubt somewhat smaller than it otherwise would be, but I sincerely hope that good service to the Province will be the result of the absent members.
This will be interesting, although elections in our own jurisdiction do not interfere with our Grand Lodge, but play havoc with our lodges. He calls attention to the importance of a uniform form of Ritual. He states it would not be quite so bad if only the three authorized forms in their jurisdiction were used, but the three are now being rendered in three or four different ways. This will be interesting news to our own readers. During the year the Grand Master made the remarkable record of sixty-four official visits. The Grand Secretary in submitting his report is pleased to say that he has received annual returns from all the lodges, and all dues and fees have been paid. This statement, however, is followed up with the statement that this condition was only brought about through prayers, threats and entreaties. We know just what it means from our own experience. The Proceedings are embellished with pictures of the hall of their late Mount Hermon Lodge No. 461, now No. 7, vintage of 1869. T h e reverse side of this insert contains a picture of the building in which is housed the same lodge at the present time. Quite a contrast.
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—CALIFORNIA.
19
The Report on Correspondence was again prepared by their efficient Grand Secretary, Brother WILLIAM A. DEWOLF-SMITH, and
he includes with his excellent review a reference to our 1923 Proceedings. He rather " t w i t s " the writer of this report, (although his reference to him throughout is extremely complimentary) concerning our extending recognition to the Grand Lodges of Panama and Honduras, and poking fun at other Grand Lodges for recognizing the so-called National Grand Lodge of Italy. If our good Brother DEWOLF-SMITH will follow up the
record of the above Grand Lodges he will discover quite a contrast between the principles involved in the jurisdictions in question, and that our extending fraternal relations to the two Grand Lodges in Central America was based on a complete compliance with our formula in matters of this kind. STEPHEN JONES, M . ' . W . - . Grand Master, Victoria. WILLIAM A. DEWOLF-SMITH, R.-. W.". Grand Secretary and Corre-
spondent, New Westminster. Next Annual, Kamloops, June 18, 1925.
CALIFORNIA —1924. Lodges, 505; members, 108,176; net gain, 7,893. Los Angeles, October 14,1924. ARTHUR S. CRITES, M . ' . W . ' . Grand
Master. We take pleasure in quoting the following from the preface to the Grand Master's address: We are met today in our Diamond Jubilee Anniversary. This means that there is three-quarters of a centiu-y of completed Masonic history in this jurisdiction. What a splendid record it has been! No Mason can give consideration to that record but with a feeling of great pride. Those who estabUshed Masonry upon this coast during the turbulent days of the gold rush builded far better than they knew. The heritage is all ours. But with that heritage goes a trust— a trust to do even a little better than any of our predecessors. Need I ^ay that we will be faithful to that trust? With 'seventy-four year's of completed Masonic history behind us, but with our eyes resolutely on the future; with seventy-four years of well-charted course behind us, and with the real ideals of the Fraternity steadfastly before us, we will be faithful to that trust and carry the standard of Masonry even a little farther forward, and write the name of Masonry even a little brighter upon the scroll of time.
It is evident the Grand Master was greatly interested in his work as indicated by the following official acts performed during the year: The constitution of each of the tliirty-nine lodges to which charters were, granted at the last session of the Grand.Lodge; The granting of twenty-one dispensations for the formation of new lodges i The institution of five lodges under dispensations; The installation of the ofHcers of sixty lodges; The laying of the corner-stones of three Masonic Temples; The laying of corner-stones of eight school buildings;
20
CORRESPONDENCE—CALIFORNIA.
February.
The laying of the comer-stone of the Courts and Library building at Sacramento; The laying of the corner-stone of the Scottish Bite Cathedral, at San Jose; The dedication of six new Masonic Temples; The dedication of the new buildings at the Decoto Masonic Home; The dedication of the University Masonic Club House at Berkeley; The visitation of lodges in all Inspectorial Districts In the State, including the five special districts and the Territory of Hawaii; and The visitation of nineteen individual lodges. All which is intended to convey the story that I have been in personal touch with each of the 505 lodges in our jurisdiction.
The Grand Master learned that a number of brethren were in the Base Hospital of the United States Government at Palo Alto, and although but little could be done for these, brethren, yet he felt they were entitled to whatever could be done for them and he accordingly placed in the hands of one of the Past Masters at that place $200.00 to be used in whatever way he deemed best. Subsequently an additional $300.00 was set aside for this purpose. This certainly was a most commendable act on the part of the Grand Master. Another of the numerous organizations claiming attachment to the Masonic fraternity, known as Jean d'Arc, submitted a copy of their laws to the Grand Master for examination, and with them a resolution for the lodges of their jurisdiction to endorse this organization. The Grand Master, however, declined, and we submit the following as his views on this subject: I felt it necessary to advise that it had always been the policy of Masonry In general as well as of the Grand Lodge of California, to avoid any seeming connection with or sponsoring of outside organizations or movements, that I felt such policy was still sound and the wisest one to pursue, and that until Grand Lodge had spoken on the matter I would have to advise against subordinate lodges passing such resolution. And while passing, although it may not be pertinent to my report to this Grand Body, yet I cannot refrain from remarking that irrespective of how praiseworthy this movement may be and however helpful its principles may prove—and I believe all of this can be said of it— yet I believe there is a serious question of its propriety, for there are, in my judgment, already too many activities inclined to divert the attention of our children from their school work and other duties. I speak from close observation In this regard.
We most heartily approve of the position taken by the Grand Master, but wonder how he reconciles it with the action of their Grand Lodge in 1922 in endorsing the organization known as the DeMolay. It seems that the action of the Grand Lodge in endorsing the DeMolay did not carry with it authority for the lodges to sponsor them. The Grand Master had the pleasure of raising to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason what he terms "the biggest Mason in the world." This candidate is eight feet, nine and one-quarter inches tall and weighs five hundred sixteen pounds. It certainly was an occasion and we doubt not this distinguished brother was honored with a large attendance.
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—CANADA.
21
I n t h e s u m m a r y of proceedings, p r e p a r e d b y .the G r a n d Secretary, h e r e p o r t s t h e completion of buildings a t their H o m e s a t Decoto a n d Covina, a t a cost of more t h a n $729,000.00. T h e new buildings consist of one h u n d r e d rooms, m o d e r n kitchen, a u d i t o r i u m w i t h a s e a t i n g capacity of t h r e e h u n d r e d , domestic building, ice p l a n t , sewing r o o m , drug store a n d r o o m for storing supplies. T h e G r a n d C o m m a n d e r y of K n i g h t s T e m p l a r d o n a t e d $10,000.00 as a nucleus t o a hospital fund for t h e benefit of children. A t t h e H o m e a t D e c o t o t h e r e a r e 187 m e n a n d women, a n d i n t h e H o m e a t C o v i n a t h e r e a r e 128 boys a n d girls. T h e cost for m a i n t a i n i n g t h e H o m e a t Decoto last year w a s $62,214.52, a n d t h a t a t Covina, $57,680.90. Their C o m m i t t e e on Policy a n d General P u r p o s e s , t o w h o m h a d been referred t h a t portion of t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s address concerning t h e K l a n , s u b m i t t e d t h e following r e p o r t which w a s a d o p t e d : The Committee on Policy and General Purposes, to which had been referred that portion of the Grand Master's message, entitled the " One Untoward Condition," reported the unqualified approval and commendation of t h e committee, and " in view of the fact that the Klan has no association or connection with Masonry, it is deplorable to learn that certain Klan members are attempting to cause discord in the Craft and creating in the minds of some of our members a false impression respecting the attitude of Masonry. No association that is intolerent of another's creed, religion, or race, can hold fellowship with Freemasons." The committee further reported " t h a t the principles of Freemasonry are too well understood and the policy of this Grand Lodge to hold aloof from the approval or denunciation of any non-masonic organization is too well settled to require any resolution, at this time, on this subject. T h e G r a n d Lodge w i t h d r e w from m e m b e r s h i p in t h e M a s o n i c Service Association of t h e U n i t e d S t a t e s . We regret t h a t reference cannot b e m a d e t o t h e R e p o r t on Correspondence as t h e regular issue of t h e Proceedings does n o t reach t h e h a n d s of t h e writer u n t i l t o o late t o b e included in this review. W e therefore m u s t prepare this portion of our r e p o r t from B r o t h e r W H I C H B R ' S s u m m a r y of t h e proceedings. DAVID J. R E E S E , M.-.W.-.Grand Master, Ventura. J O H N W H I C H B R , R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary, San Francisco. JAMES L E W I S M A T T H E W S , Correspondent,
Covina.
CANADA—1924. Lodges, 508; m e m b e r s , 102,096; n e t gain, 4,060. T o r o n t o , J u l y 16, 1924.
WILLIAM JOHN DROPE,
M.-.W.-.Grand
Master, At this C o m m u n i c a t i o n , our G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e , R.*.W.'. B r o t h e r R . H . S P E N C E R , w a s present. T h e m a y o r of t h e city extended a welcome t o t h e b r e t h r e n a n d we q u o t e t h e following from his r e m a r k s : In passing I may i-emark that the word "Toronto," which has come down to us from the days when the red men were the sole occupants of the country.
22
CORRESPONDENCE—CANADA.
February,
means " T h e place of meeting." By assembling here two years in succession you have confirmed us in the belief that Toronto for more than one reason is a very desirable place of meeting. Toronto is the Capital city of the leading Province of the Dominion. It Is the educational center and the commercial center and the financial center and the industrial center of the Province, and its people are in hearty sympathy with the high aims of the Craft. V e t e r a n M a s o n s , t h a t is those who h a d a t t e n d e d fifty years or m o r e as m e m b e r s of t h e Craft, were e x t e n d e d formal recognition. A c o m m u n i c a t i o n from t h e G r a n d Lodge of I r e l a n d was r e a d i n t o t h e j o u r n a l of t h e P r o c e e d i n g s , e x t e n d i n g grateful t h a n k s t o t h e G r a n d L o d g e of C a n a d a for their c o n t r i b u t i o n of $1,000.00 t o t h e r e s t o r a t i o n fund of t h e Masonic Halls t h r o u g h o u t I r e l a n d . T h e G r a n d M a s t e r in s u b m i t t i n g his a n n u a l address h a d t h e following t o s a y i n extending a welcome t o t h e b r e t h r e n : Especially do we greet the scores and hundreds of Worshipful Masters who, for the first time, are raingling with us, and taking part in our deliberations. We hope t h a t their interest may not wane, that their Masonic zeal may be antensifled, and that they may carry back to their lodges some inspiration to "those brethren who have not the privilege of attending Grand Lodge. Referring to t h e d e a t h of their M.". W.'. B r o t h e r H E N R Y ".ROBERTSON, one of t h e m o s t distinguished Craftsmen in t h a t jurissdiction, we q u o t e t h e following: He was initiated in Manito Lodge No. 90, in 1861, and was Master in 1865 -and 1866. H e was appointed to the Board of General Purposes in 1867, and continued a member until his death last year, a period of fifty-six years. He was Grand Master in 1886 and 1887. He was one the most useful members of Grand Lodge during his career, and for a great number of years wrote the Keport on Fraternal and Foreign Correspondence. He published a Digest on Masonic Jurisprudence which is a recognized Masonic work of great value, and as a Masonic author he was well known in Canada and the United States. We can learn and gather much inspiration from his useful and industrious life. Let us all strive t o emulate it. T h e writer, of t h i s r e p o r t distinctly calls t o mind his personal a c q u a i n t a n c e m a n y y e a r s ago w i t h a n o t h e r distinguished Masonic scholar in C a n a d a , M.-.W-".Brother J. R o s s R O B E R T S O N . A wonderful s t u d e n t , a g r e a t adviser a n d one who u p h e l d t h e L a n d m a r k s a n d T r a d i t i o n s of t h e f a t h e r s . N o w t h a t M.-. W.-. B r o t h e r H E N R Y R O B E R T S O N h a s passed a w a y t h e r e is only left t h e h a p p y reflections of a well s p e n t life, and we h a v e no d o u b t t h e y will live in t h e h e a r t s of t h e b r e t h r e n for m a n y years to come. U n d e r t h e head of " B e n e v o l e n c e " we t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following: We have now more than six hundred beneficiaries and the half-yearly cheque gladdens many a heart and renders financial assistance to many who are in real need. During the year just closed we have distributed One Himdred Thousand Dollars to our needy dependents, and at least Fifty Thousand more has been distributed by the constituent lodges. The attention of some of the lodges is directed to the misunderstanding that is gaining ground that Grand
1924-25.
COBBESPONDENCE—CANADA.
23
Lodge should furnish all the funds for benevolence. This is a mistaken idea. The grants made by Grand Lodge are only supplementary, and the onus ol providing for our beneficiaries should fall on the constituent lodges. No grant should be made by Grand Lodge unless an equally substantial amount is subscribed by the constituent lodge of which the beneficiary is a member. T h e following, t a k e n from t h e subject of " Masonic E d u c a t i o n , " will no d o u b t a p p e a l t o our b r e t h r e n as our plan along t h e s e lines is i n full accord w i t h t h e suggestion of t h e G r a n d M a s t e r : This a subject "which is engrossing the attention of many of our more enlightened members. The study of the philosophy, symbolism, history and traditions of Masonry is an inexhaustible one, and much good work is being done, especially in the larger centers towards the advancement of Masonic knowledge. There is an untold wealth of information to be obtained in the various works on Freemasonry which are within the reach of every member in price. 1 recommend that once a year, at least, a capable student of Masonic research be invited to address the lodge on some Masonic subject of interest.
We vary a little in quoting the following but know it will be of interest to the readers of this report: A lack of experience on the part of a young Master has been brought t o my attention recently. The occasion was a Masonic funeral which the brethren attended in regalia. Two of the pall-bearers were Masons and the other four did not belong to the Order. This is the second time that an occurence of this nature has taken place in the locality. I t is scarcely conceivable that a Master of a lodge should countenance this procedure, and I wish to issue the warning that such violations of correct methods cannot be tolerated.
The Grand Master, among other things, had the following to say in his conclusion: Let us be cheerful, and stoutly refuse to look upon the dark side of life. "World conditions must change for the better. Let us, in the meantime, keep our temper, preserve .our faith, cultivate the habit of smiling and give up the habit of despairing. We Canadians are a good humoured, peace-loving, selfsacrificing race of people. We hate violence and cruelty. We all want to settle down to a peaceful, contented life after these years of world turmoil and strife. These characteristics have been handed down to us from our ancestors, those sturdy pioneers who hewed out homes for themselves in the primeval forests of Ontario. We have a mission in this world. Let us prove worthy of the trust. This is a good world. Let us all strive to make it better.
The Grand Secretary's report is again complete in every particular, being confined almost wholly to financial exhibits. The report of the Board on the condition of Masonry is excellent, and referring to members in attendance at Grand Lodge they have the following to say: Notwithstanding the oft-repeated exhortation to Masters and ofBcers t h a t the proceedings and reports of Grand Lodge and its committees should be given special attention at lodge meetings during the year, we fear that the instructions In this regard are too often neglected. The members of a lodge who attend the Grand Lodge meetings are no doubt familiar with the trend of Masonic opinion. In the jurisdiction, and are conversant with the changes in legislation that have resulted. But too frequently they assume that these matters are of no interest to the Craft in general. Any one who has noted the inquiries made by intelligent
24
CORRESPONDENCE—CONNECTICUT.
February,
and observant members of tbe Order must be impressed with the desirability of providing information as to local and world-wide Masonic activities. How many of these inquirers have ever had an opportunity of reading the Grand Lodge Proceedings? Our committees labor and bring forth elaborate reports and reviews which should not be reserved for the circumscribed audiences composed exclusively of Grand Lodge membership. The review of Fraternal Correspondence is too rich a store-house to be locked up from the anxious searchers for Masonic l^nowledge. I t would be well to encourage "Grand Lodge" nights when the Annual Proceedings would be taken as the text book for the evening. The leaders for the meeting need not necessarily be Grand Lodge members, but preferably those who would approach the subject with a fresh enthusiasm and from a new viewpoint. An evening of this kind should be a double enlightenment; it should furnish information to those who have not been fortunate enough to attend Grand Lodge, and it sliould present new angles of vision that would undoubtedly assist the lodge representatives to approach the problems of the Craft in a more judicial way than might otherwise be the case. T h e R e p o r t on Correspondence c o n t a i n s a n excellent review of our 1924 P r o c e e d i n g s . If t h e writer were n o t fearful of t h e consequences i t w o u l d b e a pleasure t o q u o t e t h e entire review, u n d e r K a n s a s . I t c o n t a i n s a brief reference, with liberal q u o t a t i o n s , t o t h e t r a n s a c t i o n s of our G r a n d Lodge a t its last A n n u a l C o m m u n i c a t i o n . W I L L I A M J. D R O P E , M . ' . W.-. Grand Master, Grimsby. W I L L I A M M . L O G A N , R.-. W . - . G r a n d Secretary, H a m i l t o n . N e x t A n n u a l , H a m i l t o n , J u l y 15, 1925.
CONNECTICUT—1924. L o d g e s , 119; m e m b e r s , 41,206; n e t gain, 1,517. H a r t f o r d , F e b r u a r y 6, 1924.
ARTHUR M . BROWN,
M.-.W..Grand
Master. B r o t h e r H O W A R D A. M I D D L E T O N , our G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e , w a s present. W e t a k e pleasure in quoting t h e following few words from t h e preface in t h e address of t h e G r a n d M a s t e r : Although the actual exemplifying of the degrees in the lodge room may not furnish an opportunity to work to all those who may desire such opportunity, Masonry offers other broad fields of service which may well challenge the energies and abilities of us all. We have the duty of carrying out of the lodge room into the world where we work and play the great principles of brotherly love, relief and truth so beautifully taught within the lodge, and so living and' practicing these great principles, that our contact with our fellowmon everywhere shall be a blessing and an encouragement to them, and our loved Fraternity thus become a tremendous force for good in this world, a force for right living and right thinking. I believe that our responsibilities along this line are coming more and more to be appreciated by the Craft in general, which is a most hopeful sign for the future. U n d e r t h e head of " N e c r o l o g y , " h e refers t o t h e passing a w a y of t h e i r P a s t G r a n d Senior W a r d e n , A R T H U R H . B R E W E R , who served in
1924-25.
CoBBESPONDENCE—CONNECTICUT.
25
that capacity in 1889. Under the same head he calls attention to the passing away of their Grand Trustee, R.-.W.". Brother ISAIAH BAKER, JR. Brother BAKER was likewise Grand Representative of our Grand Lodge. Full report of official visits made during the year is included with the address and occupy nineteen pages of the journal. I t is evident from this portion of his address that he was interested in his work and "made good." Under the head of "Observations and Recommendations," we note the Grand Master calls attention to the practice of members signing petitions for new lodges, and the results attained when the Secretaries of the respective lodges do not make the required transfer of membership, thereby leaving the brother in both lodges. We have been working along that line for lo these many years, and finally at our last Annual Communication our law was amended, requiring all such transfers to be transmitted through the office of the Grand Secretary. It added a " b u m p e r " of a job on the poor down-trodden Secretariat; however, it reduces the possibility of error to a minimum. Brother GEORGE A. KIBS, their efficient Grand Secretary, presents his usual interesting report. Through the Committee on Jurisprudence they " s o t " down on the raising of funds for Masonic purposes by means of lotteries, raffles and games of chance. The Grand Secretary, R.-.W.". Brother GEORGE A. K I E S , presents the usual Report on Correspondence and we are under obligations for quite an extended review of our 1923 Proceedings. We notice, however, in referring to our action in the matter of severing relations with New Hampshire, that he raises the question that visitation is not a right, but a courtesy. If our good Brother KlES will again read the reference to this subject in our 1923 Proceedings, both in the address of the Grand Master and in the report of the Committee on Correspondence, he will find that this point is well covered. Further reference to the subject will be found in the introduction to this report. WiNTHROP BUCK, M.-.W.-. Grand Master, Withersfield. GEORGE A. K I E S , R . - . W . \ Grand Secretary and Correspondent,
Hartford. Next Annual, Hartford, February 4, 1925.
26
. COBMESPONDENCE—DELAWARE.
February.
DELAWARE —1923. Lodges, 22; members, 5,715; net gain, 139. Wilmington, October 3, 1923. CHARLES A. BAMBERGER, M.-. W.'.
Grand Master. Kansas was represented by Brother A. VICTOR HUGHES, Past Grand Master. We take pleasure in quoting the following from the preface to the address of the Grand Master: We urge that every brother take an active interest in his lodge whenever possible to do so. Do not lot your obvious duties rest on the ofBcers and a few other faithful brethren. Attend the communications of your lodge. Refamiliarize yourself with Masonic teachings; carry these with you into your daily life. Practice brotherly love. Peace and harmony are Masonic virtues. Carping and bickering mar these virtues. It is not elevating to disturb the harmony of a lodge for trivial reasons. Criticism should always be constructive. When you know a fellow—know his every mood and whim You begin to find the texture of the splendid side of him. You begin to understand him and you cease to scoff and sneer. For with understanding always prejudices disappear. You begin to find his virtues and his faults you cease to tell. For you seldom hate a fellow when you know him very well. . •—Guest. The Grand Master felt justified in issuing the following Edict: Inasmuch as it has come to my attention that members of our subordinate lodges as members of their respective lodges are acting, or have been designated to act on committees not directly connected with said lodges and their Masonic functions, I hereby direct that all such members withdraw at once from such committees, unless they serve simply as individuals, or in a capacity disassociated from their membership in their Masonic lodges. In support of this, he has the following to say concerning the " F u n d a m e n t a l s " of Freemasonry: In Masonry there are certain fundamentals which no earthly power can alter or change. One of these fundamentals is the belief in the Supreme Architect of the Universe. Freedom of thought and action is accorded, and it is unMasonic to espouse any religious creed or sect. The only religious test required of a Freemason is his belief in the,Supreme Being by whatever name It may be known.
We take the liberty of quoting the following, which we take to be a slight rebuke for some inattention on the part of officers charged with specific duties: While the attendance of the Grand Officers on official visits of the Grand Master in the past year has probably been more complete than at any previous period, this cannot be said respecting emergent commimications of the Grand " Lodge. Our jurisdiction is not extensive; we have good roads and satisfactory railroad service. It is, therefore, no great, hardship for the officers to be in attendance to a greater extent than formerly. We have taken the opportimity to Investigate the observance of these duties in other jurisdictions. Much to our surprise we found this observance to be considerably more complete, al-
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—DELAWARE.
27
though the other jurisdictions^ are larger and it is a more arduous task to attend the functions to which reference is made. The brethren should keep in mind that the election or the appointment to an office means more than the inscribing of the name in our records. Every ofllcer. subscribes to an obligation when installed, and is charged with the observance of his duties. More than strictly personal convenience should be exercised when duty calls. Commendation is due and is now expressed to the several Grand Officers who so faithfully attended to their duties even at a sacrifice of other duties. This advice does n o t a p p l y alone to Delaware, b u t t h e shoe fits in o t h e r sections of t h e c o u n t r y a s well. Referring t o our r e p o r t one year ago concerning a proposition i n t h e h a n d s of a c o m m i t t e e t o s h o r t e n t h e burial service, we find t h a t t h e committee h a v e performed their d u t y well a n d as a m a t t e r of i n f o r m a tion t o our own readers we t a k e t h e liberty of quoting this service i n full: NOTE: On arrival at the cemetery the brethren congregate near t h e ' grave until after the clergyman has concluded the religious service of the church; then the craft form a circle around the grave and perform Masonic labor. The Master stations himself at the head, and the Senior and Junior "Wardens at the foot of the grave. The Chaplain at the left of the Master. MASTER:—From time immemorial it has been the custom of the Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons, upon reciuest. to accompany the body of a deceased brother to the place of interment, and there deposit his body with the usual formalities. In conformity to this ancient usage, wo have assembled at this time in the character of Alasons to offer before the world the last tribute of our affections' and thereby demonstrate in the strongest possiljle manner, the sincerity of our past esteem for him, and' Our steady attachment to the principles of the Fraternity. Brethren we are again called upon by a solemn admonition to regard the uncertainty of human life, the certainty of death, and the vanity of all earthly ambitions. Decrepitude and decay are written on everything. But a span— a heart-beat, a breath—divides tlic cradle from the grave; and it is a melancholy truth, that so. soon as wo begin to live, that moment Ave also begin to die. Man that is born of woman is of few days, and full of trouble. He cometh up like a flower, and is cut down; he fleeth as it were a shadow, and continueth not. In the midst of life we are in death. Of whom may we seek for succor but of Thee, O Lord, who for our sins art justly displeased. The last offices we pay to the dead are useless, except as they constitute lessons to the living. The cold, marble form enclosed in the "Narrow House"* before you, is alike insensible to our sorrows and our ceremonies. It matters not now to him whether we are two, or three, gathered around the grave to perform these funeral rights, or that hundreds have assembled, with banners and Insignia of our Fraternity, to deposit his body in its final resting place. It is of little moment, how, or in what manner, his Obsequies are performed: whether the wild winds chant his requiem, or be accompanied Avith the rare and costly music and the minstrelsy of many voices. His spirit has gone to accomplish the destiny of our race: while his body in the slumber of the grave will be resolved into its original elements. While we drop a sympathetic tear over the grave of our departed brother; let us not withhold from his memory the commendation that his virtues claim at our hands. NOTE: The Secretary then takes the sacred roll on which has been recorded the name, age, and death of the deceased and deposits it in the grave. The Master presents the apron with the following exhortation.
28
CORRESPONDENCE—DELAWARE
February,
MASTER:—The Lamb-Skin or white apron is an emblem of innocence and the badge of a Mason. I t is more ancient than the Golden Fleece: more honorable than t h e Star and Garter. This emblem I now place on the casket of our deceased brother. By this we are reminded of the universal dominion of death. The arm of friendship cannot interpose to prevent his coming: the wealth of the world cannot purchase his release. N O T E : The body is lowered in the grave, and the Master holding t h e evergreen continues. This evergreen is an emblem of our faith in the immortality of the Soul. By this we are reminded of our high and glorious destiny beyond the "World of Shadows," that there dwells within our tabernacle of clay an imperishable, Immortal spirit, over which the grave has no dominion, and death no power. N O T E : The Master drops t h e sprig into t h e grave with three motions of the right hand, and likewise each brother in turn, beginning at the right of the Master. MASTER:—Forasmuch as the spirit of the departed hath returned to t h e GOD who gave it, we therefore commit his body to the ground, earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust; looking for the general resurrection in the last day, when the earth and the sea shall give up their dead. To those of his immediate relatives and friends who are most heartstricken at the loss wo have all sustained, we have nothing of this world's consolation to offer. We can only sincerely, deeply and most affectionately sympathize with them in their afflictive bereavement: and commend them to the Infinite Father who looks down with compassion upon the widow and the fatherless in the hour of their desolation. Ho will fold his arms of love and protection around those who put their trust in Him. Then let each of us In our respective stations, so improve this solemn warning, that at last, when the volume of the record of our life is opened we may receive from the Omniscient, Eternal Judge the thrilling invitation, "Come ye Blessed of my Father inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world." HONORS.
MASTER: . Brethren join with me in paying the last honors. First motion. Arms across the breast, the right arm uppermost, and the open palms of the hands on the shoulders. MASTER: We cherish his memory in our hearts. Second motion. Arms are raised above t h e . h e a d , full length, slightly extended to the front, palms upward. SENIOR W A R D E N :
We commend his spirit to GOD who gave it.
Third motion. JUNIOR WARDEN:
The arms are dropped full length, slightly extended to the front, palms of the hands up.
And consign his body t o t h e earth.
MASTER: The will of GOD is accomplished. ALL: SO mote it be. CHAPLAIN OR MASTER.
p u r Father, which art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy Kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. For thine Is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen. RESPONSE :
So mote it be. BENEDICTION.
The peace that passeth all understanding rest and abide upon you now and forever. Amen. RESPONSE :
So mote it be.
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—DISTRICT
OF COLUMBIA.
29
The Proceedings contain an excellent likeness of their Masonic Home. I t has the appearance of the "down eastern" style of architecture, and we venture that it is indeed a " H o m e " in every respect. The Report on Correspondence was presented by Brother THOMAS J.[^DAY, and he includes a reference to our 1923 Proceedings. EDWARD W . COOCH, M.-.W.-. Grand Master, Wilmington. JOHN F . ROBINSON, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Wilmington.
THOMAS J. DAY, Correspondent.
(Address not given.)
Next Annual, Wilmington, October 1, 1924.
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA —1923. Lodges, 34; members, 21,132; net gain, 1,146. At a Stated Communication held on May 9, 1923, a lengthy report was submitted by their Committee on Jurisprudence, all of which was adopted. In this report the committee referred to a recommendation of the Grand Master to the effect that an amendment should be added to the form of petition for the degrees, asking a question whether the petitioner held membership in any other fraternal order or society, and if so the name, place and date of same. The committee, however, took an opposite view and made an adverse report. An amendment was also proposed that where a part or all of the Committee on Investigation made an unfavorable report the candidate should be declared rejected. We take it that this meant no ballot was required. The committee recommended the rejection of the proposed amendment. Might we venture to ask whether the adoption of such an amendment would not carry with it the right of the committee to reject the candidate instead of the lodge. Another amendment was considered to the effect that a brother may be a member of as many lodges as he desires. Of course this is an old question; however, the committee very wisely made an adverse report. Concerning their proposed new Masonic Temple we note that the chairman of the Special Committee reported that they had already received subscriptions to the amount of $936,874.05. This amount exceeds that required for the purchase of the site, which as reported last year, was $900,000.00. The committee states that it is important that all Masonic and allied bodies participate in the ownership and therefore presented a plan for that purpose. Their recommendations throughout were adopted. At the Annual Communication held on December 19, 1923, all Grand Officers were present. The Grand Master expresses t h e following words, which would indicate that it is a mixture between an apology for not having accom-
30
CORRESPONDENCE—DISTRICT
OF COLUMBIA.
February,
plished what he had expected to do, and those things which were done and he hoped would meet the favorable consideration of the brethren: With some hesitancy do I approach the task of presenting to you an accounting of my handling of the affairs placed under my supervision. Although I have not accomplished all that I had hoped for, I feel that you will accord me gracious consideration, and therefore will attempt to give a presentable history of the events of the year. In a sense it has been my privilege to preside over a great family assisted by a cabinet composed of the offlcial line of the Grand Lodge and a Senate composed of the Masters of the thirty-four lodges, all of whom have been so kindly-spirited, helpful and capable that to serve with them has been a real pleasure to me from every angle of contact. The many courtesies extended t o me as your Grand Master have made the duties involved only pleasant opportunities for service rather than labor t o perform. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r w a s called u p o n t o r e n d e r a decision relative t o t h e physical qualification of one w h o while i n t h e service of his c o u n t r y w a s disabled t o the e x t e n t of his lower l i m b s being paralyzed. Of course h e ruled t h a t such a c a n d i d a t e did n o t possess t h e required qualifications, a l t h o u g h he w a s inclined t o b e m o r e liberal-if their regulat i o n s h a d p e r m i t t e d h i m t o do s o . While w e regret t o n o t e t h e i m p a i r e d h e a l t h of their G r a n d Secret a r y , R.-. W.'. A R V I N E W . J O H N S T O N , y e t we a r e pleased t o learn t h a t our b r e t h r e n of t h e D i s t r i c t of C o l u m b i a a r e n o t u n m i n d f u l of t h e faithful services h e h a s r e n d e r e d for so m a n y y e a r s a n d as expressed in t h e following words i n t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s a d d r e s s : The greatly impaired health of the Grand Secretary has been a matter of serious concern to the Fraternity, and the time has come when he must either retire from the office or be relieved from the multitudinous routine duties with •which he is burdened, among which may be mentioned the increasing work on the membership card register and attention to innumerable callers on business of minor Importance. The vast store of Masonic knowledge gained by him in his faithful service of nearly twenty-three years is an asset of so much value to the Grand Lodge that it should be conserved as far as possible by placing in other hands the duties that are too great a tax upon his strength, and permitting him to give his entire attention to the larger affairs of the Grand Lodge. His assistant. Brother HOKACE S. NAYLOE, being well qualified to take charge of all the routine business of the office, I recommend that provision be made for the appointment of a new Librarian; t h a t Brother NAYLOR be transferred from the Library to the ofBce of the Grand Secretary; and that the Grand Secretary be given quarters jointly with the Grand Master in the adjoining office. We sincerely hope that our friend and brother may be spared as an advisor for many years to come. The next Communication was held on St. John's Day, December 27, 1923, at which time the special committee appointed to review the address of the Grand Master was submitted. The usual Report on Correspondence was submitted by Brother GEORGE W . BAIRD, Past Grand Master, and includes a review of our 1923 Proceedings. He refers to our action in withdrawing fraternal relations with the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire, and from his rer
1924-25.
. CORRESPONDENCE—ENGLAND.
31
m a r k s i t is e v i d e n t t h a t h e either overlooked o r carelessly r e a d t h a t portion of t h e address of o u r G r a n d M a s t e r dealing w i t h t h i s subject, a n d also t h e r e p o r t of t h e C o m m i t t e e on Correspondence. However, t h i s m a t t e r is fully covered in t h e writer's i n t r o d u c t i o n t o this report. M e n t i o n is m a d e of t h e discovery of a m a r k e r for a grave, found i n t h e south-west p a r t of our s t a t e , which was t u r n e d over for display i n our G r a n d Lodge M u s e u m . H e s t a t e s , however, t h a t t h e d a t e on t h e stone is A u g u s t 9, 1848. J u s t t w o h u n d r e d years b e h i n d t i m e as t h e stone is m a r k e d 1648. C H A R L E S F . R O B E R T S , M . - . W.-. G r a n d M a s t e r , W a s h i n g t o n . A R V I N E W . JOHNSTON, R . - . W . ' . Grand Secretary, Washington. GEORGE W . BAIRD, P . - . G . \ M . - . , Correspondent, Washington.
UNITED GRAND LODGE OF ENGLAND —1924. Lodges, 3,889; m e m b e r s , 320,000; n e t gain, 70,000. At t h e Quarterly C o m m u n i c a t i o n of S e p t e m b e r 5,1923, t h r o u g h t h e P r e s i d e n t of t h e B o a r d of Benevolence, a n a p p r o p r i a t i o n of 2,000 guineas was m a d e for t h e relief of t h e distressed of t h e e a r t h q u a k e i n Japan. As t h i s was t h e first t i m e in t h e h i s t o r y of E n g l a n d when G r a n d Lodge ever m e t outside of L o n d o n , t h e B o a r d of General Purposes referred t o t h e m a t t e r in t h e following w o r d s : The holding, for the first time in the history of English organized Freemasonry, of the Quarterly Communication of Grand Lodge outside London, Is an event of the greatest Interest to the Craft. Over 3,500 applications to be present on the occasion have been received from qualified brethren: and as St. George's 'Hall, Liverpool, the place of assembling, can accommodate no more than 2,500, an apportionment of places has had to be made, with a view to secure an equitable and widespread representation of the lodges. The unprecedented occasion has called for the exercise of great pains and patience on the part of all concerned in its organization; and the Board desires in this regard to thank its-President (E .•. W.-. Brother Sir ALP'KED ROBBIN.^, P .'. G .•. W .•.) t h e Grand Secretary (V.-.'W.-.Brother P . COLVILLE SMITH, C . V . 0 . , P . ' . G . - . D .-.),
the Grand Director of Ceremonies (V.-. W.-. Brother J. S. GKANVILLE GRENTTELL) , and the Assistant.Grand Secretary (W.-. Brother SYDNEY A. WHITE, P.'.G.'. Std.". B .•.) for the special efforts they have made. I t wishes 'also to express deep appreciation of the pains taken by the brethren of the Pro'vlnce of West; Lancashire, headed by their Provincial Grand Master (B.'.W.'.Brother JOHN H . BuRRELL, P.'. G.'. D .".), to secure the success of the gathering. I n t h e m a t t e r of raising funds for their Masonic Peace Memorial, we q u o t e t h e following: . ' In the circumstances of the assembling of the Quarterly Communication a t Liverpool, it will be of special interest to state the position of the Fund in the Province of West Lancashire. The total promises as yet recorded on the Grand Lodge books from that Province are more than £32,000, of which just over £20,000 already has been received at Freemason's Hall. The number of Hall Stone Lodges in the Province is twenty-eight, of which eleven have com-
32
CORRESPONDENCE—ENGLAND.
February,
pleted their qualification, while apart from these, 174 West Lancashire Lodges are supporting the movement, and contributions have come from nineteen of the Eoyal Arch Chapters in the Province. At the Quarterly Communication of December 5, 1923, they accorded recognition to the York Grand Lodge of Mexico and declined to accord recognition to the so-called Grand Lodge of Spain. Reference relative to giving relief was made by the Board of General Purposes in their report for March 5, 1924, in the following words: Secretaries and Almoners of lodges are especially urged to exercise great caution In giving relief t o persons who travel over the country, stating that they are poor and distressed Freemasons. Many of these are either Imposters or undeserving, and no relief should be afforded without full proof that the applicant Is worthy of aid. A frequent device is to state that the applicant is a member of a lodge under a sister jurisdiction; and the Board has been supplied with an official police warning against one particularly persistent vagrant. This Is based on the fact t h a t the two Scottish Lodges of which he asserted himself to belong, declare that, after careful search and inquiry, it has been foiind that his statements are inaccurate, and that, as far as these lodges are concerned, he has no claim to be helped. Men of this type, while of shabby appearance, are apt to be extremely plausible, and to show such a degree of knowledge as to deceive Lodge Secretaries and Almoners. It is recommended that, when specific statements of the kind indicated are made, their truth be tested, and all applications, unsupported by proof, be refused. Their Annual Grand Festival was held on April 30, 1924, at which time they were honored with the presence of the Grand Master of Scotland, The EARL OF E L G I N AND KINCARDINE, and the Senior Grand Warden, Brother ALEXANDER G I B B . M.'.W.-. Brother AMPTHILL, Provincial Grand Master, had the following to say concerning an official visit made by their Grand Secretary to some of their lodges outside of England: Brethren, before I call on our V.-.W.'. Brother, the Grand Secretary, t o read the Minutes of t h e Quarterly Communication of March 5, so far as they relate to the election of the M.'.W.-. The Grand Master, I should like to remind you that Brother PHILIP COLVILLE SMITH has just returned from a voyage on which he has performed very memorable services on behalf of the M.'. W.'. The Grand Master and services of great Importance to the Craft. His mission included the consecration of the Lodge of King Solomon's Temple, No. 4611, a t Jerusalem, and of the Lydda Lodge No. 4613, at Sarafand. Proceeding from Palestine, he went to Egypt where, assisted by the Provincial Grand Master for Warwickshire, Brother Col. W. F . WYLEY, he installed Brother Major General Sir L E E STACK as District Grand Master for Egypt and the Sudan, at Cairo. On the way home he visited the Bulwer Lodge at Cairo, and the Pelusium Lodge at Port Said, and, finally, he consecrated the Port of Hercules Lodge No. 4626, at Monte Carlo. The Grand Master called the attention of the Grand Lodge to t h e fact t h a t the following day, May 1st, was the anniversary of t h e birth of His Royal Highness, the D U K E OF CONNAUGHT, Grand Master, and asked for authority to send him a message of greeting and good wishes from the Grand Lodge, which of course was done and that by acclamation.
1924-25.
CoBBESPONDBNCE—ENGLAND.
33
A Q u a r t e r l y C o m m u n i c a t i o n was held S e p t e m b e r 3, 1924. T h e y h a d as distinguished visitors t h e Provincial G r a n d M a s t e r of t h e G r a n d Lodge of Victoria, a n d one other P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r , as well as a P a s t G r a n d S e c r e t a r y of Brazil. Their G r a n d Secretary was u n a b l e t o be present a t t h i s C o m m u n i cation on a c c o u n t of illness. T h e B o a r d of General Purposes called a t t e n t i o n t o t h e m u c h famed " C h a i n P r a y e r s . " Once in a while we are pestered w i t h these chain letter p r o p o s i t i o n s ; however, our b r e t h r e n are so well posted t h a t t h e y are d e s t r o y e d as soon as received. T h e Proceedings contain t h e full r e p o r t of R.'. W.". B r o t h e r Sir A L F R E D R O B B I N S , P a s t G r a n d W a r d e n a n d P r e s i d e n t of t h e i r B o a r d of General P u r p o s e s , concerning his mission t o t h e U n i t e d S t a t e s . T h i s r e p o r t is a copy of t h a t m a d e b y him t o their G r a n d M a s t e r . I t is quite i n t e r e s t i n g t o n o t e t h e following from t h e r e p o r t : Since my return home, I have had both time and opportunity to consider generally what I had learned from this visit to the United States: and the chief lesson I drew from all my experiences—and this is a counsel to be given to brethren on both sides of the Atlantic^was to avoid hasty judgments formed on first impressions. In regard to such differences as are plainly visible between the system of Grand Lodge.and lodge government in the United States and our own jurisdiction—differences, it is ever to be understood, in degree but not in doctrine—national characteristics and local circumstances always and most steadily have to be borne in mind. A marked divergence in national psychology accounts for the one difference which to the Englishman is most apparent, and that is that what we as Masons present to the mind's eye is in America represented to the bodily vision. It is impossible openly to speak more on so delicate a matter: but I would record the opinion that the manner In which the dramatic story of our earliest-known workings has developed into the acted drama now seen across the Atlantic, demands closest study from those Masons, both English and American, who desire to know what are the dlfCereiices in practice here and there, and how and why they arose. When such a study is undertaken, it would always have to be with full realization of the temperamental and psychological differences between the English and the American peoples—differences more easily observed than accounted for. I t would be difficult to explain why the English brother who is as scrupulous to conceal marks of his Masonry from the outside world as his American brother is ready to display them, and who in his Masonic observances is as reticent of emotion as the American is ready with drama, should have In Craft Masonry a far more ornate display and difference of clothing, whether in Grand Lodge or private lodge, than is used by the overwhelming body of Symbolic or Blue Masons in the United States. This is a problem which effects us all; but there also are problems which directly touch American lodges alone, as there are those which directly touch English lodges alone. Concerning these, which, at the most, are non-essential in their basis, it Is well that each body should exercise both toleration and patience, and not seek to Impose its opinions, even by implication, the one on the other.
34
COBBESPONDENCE—FLORIDA.
February,
FLORIDA —1924. Lodges, 246; members, 24,228; net gain, 1,537. Jacksonville, January 15, 1924. JOHN L. HALL, M . - . W . - . Grand Master. We again take the liberty of calling attention to the absence of our Grand Representative, and rise to ask the question " w h a t has become of our Grand Representative? " We take pleasure in quoting the following few lines from the preface to the Grand Master's address: The strength of Masonry lies not in its organization, but in the broad principles and Influences which are disseminated from the minds of its individual members. The wisdom of its founders has kept our Order free from discord within our ranks and the entaglements that arise from the injection of matters of partisan or sectarian nature, these being questions with which our Fraternity is not concerned, and upon which our individual members are encouraged t o form and exercise their own opinions, it being the purpose of Freemasonry to create of its members free-thinking, loyal, individual citizens, inspired with the duty they owe to GOD, their country, and their fellowmen. During the uncertain conditions that prevail in the World today, and in view of the spirit of unrest that is abroad in our land, we, as Masons, can beatserve mankind by practicing our profession as transmitted to us, according to the Ancient Landmarks, without deviation from established custom or injection of innovation. Under the head of "Necrology" the Grand Master refers t o t h e passing away of their Brother JOHN M . CALDWELL, who had the wonderful record of having attended Grand Lodge forty consecutive Annual Communications. The brethren were also called upon the pay their last respects to Past Grand Masters CEPHUS L . WILSON and CHARLES W . JOHNSON, who passed to their reward during the year. Referring to the conference of Grand Masters held in Washington, October 31, 1923, he rather "lets the cat out of the b a g " in the following words: In response to an invitation from M .•.W.-.MAEK F . FTNLEY, Grand Master of the District of Columbia, I attended a conference of Grand Masters in Washington, October 31, 1923. The only matter of importance considered was the Question of the formation of a National Grand Body of Masonry, which was discussed very briefly, the opposition to such an organization being almost unanimous. The Grand Master was called upon to approve a By-Law of one of their lodges, which reads as follows: Any member who shall pass in open lodge a satisfactory examination In the examination lecture of the M. M. degree, shall receive a certificate of proficiency, under the seal of the lodge, and that no member of this lodge shall be eligible to an elective ofllce of this lodge, except the Treasurer and Secretary, until he shall have obtained such certificate of proficiency.
1924-25.
CoBBESPONDENCE—FLORIDA.
35
The question was submitted to the Grand Lodge for consideration and so far as we can see it approved the opinion of the Grand Master, that a By-Law of this kind was not constitutional. The Grand Master was asked whether it would be right for a lodge, upon the request of a brother whose residence was in another Grand Jurisidiction, to take his ashes after death out to sea and scatter them to the four winds. The Grand Master replied to the effect t h a t there was no provision for a lodge to comply with such a request. We mention the above simply as a matter of amusement for our members. The chairman of the Committee on Correspondence, M.'.W.*. BrotheE SILAS B . WRIGHT, submitted a formula in the matter of extending fraternal recognition to other Grand Bodies, and we take pleasure in quoting the same herewith: 1. That such Grand Body has been formed lawfully by at least three j u s t and duly constituted lodges, or that it has been legalized by valid act issuing from the Grand Lodge of New York or from a Grand Body in fraternal relations with this Grand Lodge. 2. That it is a reasonable. Independent, self-governing organization with sole, undisputed and exclusive authority over the symbolic lodges of its jurisdiction, and not in any sense whatever subject to, or dividing such authority with a Supreme Council or other Power claiming ritualistic or other supervision or control. 3. That its membership is composed of men exclusively and that it entertains no Masonic relations with mixed lodges or bodies admitting women Into their fellowship, 4. That it adheres in principle, to the Ancient Landmarks, traditions, customs, and usages of the Craft, as set forth in the constitutions adopted by the Grand Lodge of England in 1723. 5. That it meets in particular, the following tests which the Grand Lodge of Florida considers essential to acceptance of a Foreign Grand Body into its fellowship. (1) Acknowledgment of a belief in GOD the Father of all men. (2) Belief in Immortality. (3) Presence of the Three Great Lights of Masonry in the lodges while at work, chief among them the Sacred Book of the Divine Law. (4) Exclusion of controversial political and sectarian religious discussions from the lodges and from all meetings held under the auspices of a lodge. 6. While the Grand Lodge of Florida claims exclusive jurisdiction in t h e territory in which it is the Supreme Masonic authority, it recognizes that t h e law of exclusive territorial jurisdiction, while firmly established in the United States and many other countries, is not universally accepted and does not constitute an Ancient Landmark of the Universal Craft. To the end that no unwarranted impediment may exclude from our fellowship such Grand Bodies as are sharing the same territory with others by mutual consent we shall accept such mutual consent as entitling the several Grand Bodies included therein t o fraternal consideration, providing the applicant for recognition does not presume to extend its authority into, or presume to establish lodges in a territory occupied by a lawful Grand Lodge, without the expressed assent of such supreme governing body. We are free to admit, however, that we do not understand his first proposition, in which they admit that the Grand Lodge of New York has a right to legalize any Grand Lodge, or that any other Grand Lodge possesses such right. It simply resolves itself into a question
36
CORRESPONDENCE—GEORGIA.
February,
a s t o w h e t h e r such a p p l y i n g G r a n d Lodge conforms i n e v e r y p a r t i c u l a r t o t h e formula a d o p t e d b y t h e G r a n d L o d g e t o w h o m t h e request is made. M . \ W.-. B r o t h e r W R I G H T s u b m i t s a n o t h e r interesting a n d v e r y complete r e v i e w of t h e Proceedings of t h e various jurisdictions, i n cluding o u r own for 1923. Like some o t h e r s , h e h a s evidently failed t o r e a d t h a t portion of t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s a d d r e s s i n regard t o N e w H a m p s h i r e , a n d t h e r e p o r t of t h e C o m m i t t e e on Correspondence, or he t o t a l l y m i s u n d e r s t a n d s t h e position t a k e n b y t h e G r a n d Lodge of K a n s a s . T h i s m a t t e r , however, is covered i n t h e i n t r o d u c t i o n t o t h i s report. T . T . T O D D , M . - . W . - . G r a n d Master, P e n s a c o l a . WiLBER p . W E B S T E R , R . - . W . - . G r a n d S e c r e t a r y , Jacksonville. SILAS B . WRIGHT, P . - . G . ' . M . - . , Correspondent,
DeLand.
N e x t A n n u a l , Jacksonville, April 2 1 , 1925.
GEORGIA —1923. Lodges, 680; m e m b e r s , 67,344; n e t gain, 384. • M a c o n , October 30, 1923. J o E P . BowDOiN, M;-.W.-. G r a n d Master. P r i o r t o t h e opening of t h e G r a n d Lodge t h e y were e n t e r t a i n e d w i t h a p r o g r a m of song b y children of their M a s o n i c H o m e . D u r i n g t h e year their G r a n d T r e a s u r e r R . \ W . \ B r o t h e r J . M . RuSHiN passed t o h i s reward, a n d we q u o t e t h e following few words delivered a t t h e time of roll call: Once again the golden chain of brotlierly love and affection has been broken and our late Grand Treasurer Rev. J. M. BTJSHIN, who for sixty years has met his brethren a t these annual sessions, is no more. No man was ever held In higher esteem by his brethren, for he was a servant unto all. On March 26, 1923, he was summoned by the Supreme Grand Master of the Universe. On March 2Sth this Grand Lodge tenderly returned his body to the earth whence It came and his spirit has joined the ranks of "just men made perfect." D u r i n g t h e year, their faithful P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r , M A X M E Y E R HARDT, also laid down t h e working tools of life. T h e G r a n d Secretary h a d t h e following to s a y in regard t o their v e n e r a b l e P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r , JAMES W . TAYLOR:
The Masons of the United States are at present interested in laying the corner-stone of a memorial to be erected to a great man and a great Mason, the father of our country, Brother GEOBGE WASHINGTON. Sixty-five years ago the members of the Grand Lodge of Georgia began laying a corner-stone of love and affection for one of its members, who ninety years ago first saw the light of this universe. This day we meet in the One Hundred and Thirty-seventh Annual Communication and exactly one-half of these communications have been attended by our venerable and loved Past Grand Master JAMES W . TAYLOB, to whom we might refer as the "father" of his State, Georgia.
1924-25.
COBBESPONDENCE—GEORGIA.
37
Brother P . T . M C C U T C H E N , o u r G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e , w a s present. We q u o t e t h e following from t h e preface t o t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s address: How swiftly flow the sands of time! So quickly do they pass that we cannot realize that they have gone. Life is a weaver's shuttle; the web and. woof have rapidly gone into the year's finished product; it has gone, oh, so quiclilyl I can scarcely realize that we are again in our Annual Assembly. Steadily and swiftly the days have marched by, and today we are face to face with the accounting of a year completed; it is past; it is gone; we have written what we have written in the book of life; the record is closed and we stand ready for time to cast the balance. The fabric we have woven is for the Inspector to pass upon, and we hope it may be with charity that all the thin places and thick places may be viewed, not with a too critical eye. May the historian find something in what we have done of good that may over-balance the bad. May the trained eye and touch of the one who examines this, our woven yarn, find enough smoothness to make up for the irregularities, and may you, my brethren, look with Masonic charity upon my shortcomings, and with kindness pass my imperfections by. A little more t h a n $7,000.00 was donated b y t h e lodges. G r a n d Chapter, G r a n d Council, several commanderies, councils a n d E a s t e r n S t a r for t h e purpose of establishing a printing plant in their Horne. An effort is being p u t forth t o h a v e business concerns and t h e like " l o p off" t h e word " M a s o n i c " in connection with their business. The, G r a n d M a s t e r is meeting w i t h some success along these lines. T h e G r a n d Secretary s u b m i t s a brief r e p o r t ; however, we n o t e quite a discrepancy in t h e m e m b e r s h i p of their jurisdiction as s h o w n in his r e p o r t a n d t h e r e c a p i t u l a t i o n following t h e statistical t a b l e s . One year ago he r e p o r t e d t h e m e m b e r s h i p as 66,960 while this year h e indicates t h a t t h e m e m b e r s h i p a t t h a t t i m e was 66,391, a n d in a n o t h e r place 66,800. T h e writer of t h i s r e p o r t , therefore, m u s t use t h e figures as shown last year in compiling t h e statistical tables a t t h e close of t h i s report. B r o t h e r RAYMOND D A N I E L a g a i n s u b m i t s an interesting R e p o r t on Correspondence, n o t only including a review of t h e various j u r i s dictions, b u t a n u m b e r of i m p o r t a n t m a t t e r s now before t h e v a r i o u s G r a n d Lodges are covered in a preface t o this r e p o r t . K a n s a s is honored w i t h practically t h r e e pages i n a review of our 1923 Proceedings. T h e Georgia Proceedings could b e wonderfully improved if t h e y would include on t h e outside b a c k cover t h e n a m e s a n d addresses of their G r a n d Officers, c h a i r m a n of t h e C o m m i t t e e on Correspondence, a n d t h e d a t e a n d place for holding t h e next Annual C o m m u n i c a t i o n . J A M E S D . H A M R I C K , M . - . W . - . G r a n d M a s t e r , CarroUton. F R A N K F . B A K E R , R . - . W . ' . G r a n d Secretary, M a c o n . RAYMOND DANIEL, Correspondent, Atlanta.
38
CORRESPONDENCE—IDAHO.
February,
IDAHO —1923. Lodges, 75; members, 9,135; net gain, 359. Boise, September 11, 1923. GEORGE M . SCOTT, M.-.W.-.Grand Master. Brother SHERMAN M . COFFIN, our Grand Representative, was present. We note one peculiar thing in the Proceedings of our Idaho brethren and that is the lack of statistical information showing the number of lodges on their rolls. We do find the information, however, in the recapitulation of the Committee on Credentials. The Grand Master in presenting his address, among other things has the following interesting words to offer:. Added to the joys and privileges of this gathering, it will be remembered In future years that the 56th Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge was the first to hold communication in this spacious and magnificent new Temple of t h e Masonic Lodges of Boise. What a privilege and a pleasure It is for us to gather in such a Temple dedicated to Freemasonry, Virtue and Universal Benevolence. "And may the Lord, the giver of every good and perfect gift, bless the brethren of these lodges, in all their lawful undertakings, .and grant to every one of them, in needful supply, the Corn of nourishment, the Wine of refreshment, and the Oil of joy. " Justly may the Masons cf Idaho as well as the Masons of Boise be proud of such a home, beautiful and complete In all its appointments. We. congratulate the brethren of our Capital City on the fruits here evidenced, and the bringing to completion through untiring •efforts such a building as will ever be a monument to their earnestness, sincerity, •and love for our Order. He has the following to say in regard to the Masonic Service Asso'Ciation, which subject was referred to the Committee on Finance, and their recommendation that the Grand Lodge withdraw from this orsganization was approved: Our connection with the National Masonic Service Association has had rs, checltered career. We were first persuaded to membership in this association by conditions brought about by war. The present or immediate necessity tor such an organization, and for the benefits as first promulgated is a subject •of much discussion and diilerence of opinion. We deemed it best, however, to •discontinue our connection with the association, only later, September, 1912, t o renew the membership. Times of peace have brought about a change from the original idea of relief service t o one of developing an organization of education, by the distribution of literature and the conduct of lecture bureaus. I am not impressed with this work as applicable to our needs. Our jurisdiction is too small in numbers and great in territory for us to afford the advantages of the lecture bureau and the expense of maintaining our membership for the monthly leaflet distributed to the lodges each month is too great for the benefits derived. We could far better devote this amount as part of a fund t o carry on a system of Masonic study of our own. I, therefore, recommend that we withdraw a t this time from the National Masonic Service Association. Under the head of " E d u c a t i o n a l " the Grand Master reports the issuance of three letters along these lines during the year and that the
1924-25.
CoBBESPONDENCE—IDAHO.
39
result was most satisfactory, as evidenced by. letters of approval and praise received from many of their lodges. We believe Idaho is on the right track and that much good can be accomplished along these lines through proper efforts on behalf of their own Grand Lodge and Grand Master. Under the head of " T h e Order of Mystic Shrine" he says among other things: For many years in this State It has been common practice at the periodical ceremonial gatherings of the Shrine for certain members to seize upon the occasion as a fitting time to throw oft all restraint and to indulge in drunken debauches and other unseemly conduct, much to the disgrace of themselves and to the chagrin of others who are themselves helpless to protect the good name of Masonry. These offenses are not confined to occasional cases of unknown or obscure Individuals, but men of prominence in their lodges and their communities, even Past Masters of lodges are sometimes the most conspicuous leaders in these offensive scenes. They seem to have the idea that a Shrine ceremonial is a proper occasion for a Mason to put aside his Masonry and to forget his manhood and to turn loose whatever of lower nature he is possessed of. Apparently it makes no difference where it is, at Burley, Blackfoot, Pocatello, Sandpoint or Boise—always the same scandalous reports follow. Even following the National Conclaves at Portland and San Francisco, reports pass from one to another that prominent Masons were drunk, incapacitated and In other ways making an unseemly display of their surrender to passions which every Mason is strictly enjoined to keep under control. We inspect a candidate for Masonic degrees with the greatest care in these respects, and properly so, and if it is found that he takes a drink or two occasionally he is subjected to the closest scrutiny and likely encounters a black ball at the very entrance. But admitted and made a Shriner he can indulge In his periodical orgies with entire impunity, and even with a certain amount of applause. , No proof of these conditions Is offered here, none is required. I t is a matter of common report among our members, as well as among non-Masons. Even our critics and enemies know it and use it to our chagrin. Many members of this Grand Lodge know of their own knowledge that this is not an overstatement or exaggeration. Neither is there any desire to criticise the Shrine, Us purposes or the men who belong to it, but we have a right to demand that these practices which are bringing the Masonic Fraternity into disrepute and odium must be stopped. Let it be understood that a Mason's obligations are as binding in a Shrine ceremonial as in other walks of life. And let it be known that this Grand Lodge takes its stand in support of the laws of Masonry, the laws of morality and the laws of the land, local and national. We regret that space will not permit of other quotations from this excellent address, as it is "chuck full" of good, common sense, based on the underlying principles of Ancient Craft Masonry. Their Grand Lecturer, Brother GEORGE E . KNEFPEB, submits an interesting report under the subjects of Visits and Expenses, District Meetings, The Rjtual, and Masonic Education. He finds many things to criticise and occasionally some to commend; however, we realize t h a t this is initial work in Idaho, and eventually all these rough places will be smoothed out to the entire satisfaction of the Craft. We will look forward with considerable interest to the outcome of this work.
40
CORRESPONDENCE—ILLINOIS.
February,
The Report on Correspondence as usual was prepared b y Brother GEORGE E . K N E P P E R , and we note his kind reference to our 1923 Proceedings. W e believe without exception his report is the best arranged of a n y jurisdiction. His captions to t h e various subjects to which he refers makes it quite easy to review. VICTOR P E T E R S O N , M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Grangeville.
C U R T I S F . P I K E , R.-. W . - . Grand Secretary, Boise. J O H N W . SHORE, Correspondent, Boise.
N e x t Annual, Lewiston, September 9, 1924.
ILLINOIS —1924. Lodges, 961; members, 271,374; net gain, 11,801. Chicago, October 7, 1924. ARTHUR E . WOOD, M.-.W.-. Grand Master. As usual our Grand Representative, M.-.W.-. Brother GEORGE M . M O U L T O N , was in attendance.
In opening this volume we find a splendid halftone of the retiring Grand Master, M.-.W.-. ARTHUR E . W O O D . The Grand Lodge was again entertained by the Boys' and Girls' band of their Masonic Orphans' Home at LaGrange. The preface to t h e Grand Master's address is largely of a local character; however, we are pleased to quote the following: As we again grasp the friendly hand and extend a brother's greeting, may It awaken in us emotions of deep and lasting gratitudq to the Supreme Grand Master from whom all earthly blessings flow. As we look around us we are reminded that many whom we have known and honored in the past, have been called from labor to refreshment. Others, by the infirmities of age are prevented from being with us today. Brethren, in greeting you here today at the opening of this Annual Meeting of'our Most "Worshipful Grand Lodge, I heartily congratulate you upon the peace and harmony which has reigned within our borders. !No serious question has arisen to disturb the harmony of the Craft, but in peace and goodfellowshlp we have been permitted to exemplify the noble tenets of our institution. Today we look into a future bright with promise. Under t h e head of " N e c r o l o g y " he refers to the death of their Past Grand Master, D A N I E L G . FITZGERRELL, which occured on April 24, 1924. I n connection with his reference to this subject we find a splendid likeness of this distinguished Past Grand Master, Under the same head he refers t o one of the veterans. Brother H E N R Y E . HAMILTON, who passed away in the eighty-fifth year of his age, having served t h e Grand Lodge as Senior Grand Warden in 18761877. Our readers are no doubt well aware of the responsibilities resting upon the shoulders of a Grand Master of a jurisdiction whose membership is upwards of 300,000, and this responsibility is emphasized on account of t h e great number- of large cities within their jurisdictioni
1924-25.
COBBESPONDENCE—ILLINOIS.
41
and that questions of great importance are presented to the Grand Master. We note among them one dealing with gambling, and as a matter of interest to our readers we quote the following from the Edict, issued by M/. W.'. Brother WOOD on this subject, not because we are at this time confronted with such a condition, but we are threatened: It is my firm conviction that the practice of holding any rafHe, circus or any form of chance or gaming for the use and benefit of any Masonic lodge, and the use of punch boards for the distribution of prizes in connection with and under the auspices of constituent lodges or members thereof, are detrimental to Masonry and not in keeping with the principles of our great Fraternity. From and after the date hereof, no lodge of Masons nor member or members of any Masonic lodge shall engage in or have any part in the conduct of any raffle, circus, or any form of chance or gaming. Furthermore, no lodge of Masons nor any member thereof, may use or participate in the use of punch boards, or similar devices, for the distribution of prizes in connection witli any enterprise conducted in the name of Masonry, or directly or indirectly for the pecuniary benefit of Masonry or any Masonic lodge, or any organization when membership is composed solely of Masons; neither shall any lodge of Masons, nor organization of Masons, accept any of the. proceeds of any enterprise as outlined in this Edict.
It is evident that the Grand Master is a Arm believer in Masonic . .discipline and the enforcement of their laws, as we notice under the head of "Discipline" that he was obliged to remove three Masters from office. We notice in the advance copies of the Grand Master's address his reference to the establishment of a lodge at Fort Sheridan and that the subject has been referred to a special committee. This subject, however, was omitted from his address in the printed Proceedings, but the Committee on Grand Master's Annual Report concurred in the recommendation of the Grand Master on this subject, but we find no report as to what disposition was made of the matter. We note the Grand Secretary's salary was increased to $6,000.00 per annum. The Proceedings are embellished with a number of excellent halftones of some of the Masonic Temples. They were honored with the presence of the Grand Master and Grand. Secretary of Missouri, both of whom were called upon for remarks. The writer does not wish to show favoritism in assigning space to certain jurisdictions, yet we must grant to our Illinois brethren a little more than the ordinary space given to any one jurisdiction for the reason that a portion of the oration delivered by Brother HENRY HORNER is so closely interwoven with the history of our nation that we cannot refrain from quoting it, knowing full well that it will be a most interesting topic to our readers: The first Grand Orator of this Grand Lodge, elected in 1840, was no less a personage than STEPHEN A. DOUGLAS. Sixty years ago, volumes were written about the part he played in the history of this state and of the nation. There
42
COBBESPONDENCE—ILLINOIS.
February,
was in those days no cabin in America to which liis name and fame had not gone. Had he lived in any other era of the history of the United States, he would have been its president. It is said that because he was eclipsed by ABRAHAM LINCOLN, his place in history is now nearly forgotten. I would bring him again before you members of the Grand Lodge, that you may recall some of the beauties of his character, some of the sterling Qualities of his leadership and some of the splendid elements of that patriotism which marked his whole life. Born in Vermont, of poor parents, DOUGLAS arrived at Jacksonville, Illinois, at the age of twenty, with thirty-seven cents, his sole fortune. Licensed to practice just before his twenty-first birthday, from then on he rose faster than any man in Illinois. At twenty-three, he was. in the IlUnois House of Representatives with such associates as JOHN A. MCCLERNAND, JAMES SHIELDS
and ABRAHAM LINCOLN;—DOUGLAS being the youngest member of that unusual house. He was a leader from his early young manhood and had the truly NAPOLEONIC skill of attaching men to his standard. He soon became Secretary of State, which ofQce he resigned, to accept the position as one of the Judges of the Supreme Court of this State. He was then only twenty-eight years of age. He was in Congress at thirty and attained high rank in that position and was the acknowledged leader of the dominant political party in this State. I will not detail his services in Congress in connection with the annexation of Texas, and the War with Mexico. At the age of thirty-four, he was elected United States Senator and served three terms in that office, until his death. In 1852 and in 18S6, he was one of the foremost candidates'for the Presidency, and although he failed of these nominations, he had strong support in both conventions, and ultimately gained the nomination in 1800. DOUGLAS IS best known for the memorable debates with ABRAHAM LINCOLN. Those debates challenged the attention of the whole United States and focused' the light on LINCOLN SO brilliantly, that, even though DOUGLAS defeated LINCOLN in the contest for the Senate, LINCOLN in two short years became the Nation's president. The magnitude of the issues Involved was more vital to the peace and permanent interest of the country than any one at the time could have forseen, although subsequent events, were even then faintly foreshadowed. The great ability of the speakers, the confidence reposed in them by the pohtical parties which they respectively represented, and the immense multitudes that were drawn together to witness so extraordinai^y a contest, gave it an importance which no similar trial of intellectual power has ever gained. LINCOLN and DOOGLAS were rivals for the Senate in 1858 and rivals for the Presidency two years afterwards, yet friends. They each practiced law as Circuit Riders, before the national service called either of them. LINCOLN was often before the Supreme Court while DOUGLAS was one of its judges. They were rivals in love as well as in politics, for both sought the hand of the same fair lady in marriage. When the big debate was over, LINCOLN was nationally known only because of the fame of his great rival, DOUGLAS. When DOUGLAS, in 1860, contesting with LINCOLN for the Presidency, realized that he might not win; that the South, if LINCOLN were elected, was determined »o leave the Union, he gave up his own campaign in the States in the North, where he might have won, and he went to the South where he was popular. He went there in the desperate effort to swing the tide of public opinion so that the Union would stand, even though LINCOLN were elected. LINCOLN was elected. It was the most critical period in the life of our country. Would the South go in peace? Would they go at aU7 Would warfare come? Great LINCOLN arose to the occasion like a leader commissioned by heaven, and yet, a feather's weight on either side might have turned the scale the other way. DOUGLAS knew It. He did not sulk in his tent. While he was disappointed by his failure to reach the Presidency, so near to his grasp, yet, he knew if the Union would live it needed his help. He threw all his great influence to the side of the Union. He spoke everywhere for its cause. He announced that while be still was politically opposed to LINCOLN, he would help him in every way that it was possible.
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—ILLINOIS.
43
so that the Government might be preserved. His voice spolce not mere words; he put behind them his soul—his public devotion and his ardent public service. Do you remember that picture of LINCOLN taking the oath of oiBce when first elected to the Presidency? The great face of LINCOLN is fervid in thought. What was the future to reveal to him? When LINCOLN arose to make his first Inaugural address on the eastern portico of the Capitol, he was evidently somewhat perplexed just then, to know what to do with his new silk hat and a large gold headed cane. The cane he awkwardly put under the table, but the hat appeared to be too good to place on the rough boards. Senator DOUGLAS, who was nearest to his side, saw the embarrassment of his old friend, and, rising, took the shining hat from its bothered owner and held it during the delivery of the inaugural address. That incident, of course, at the time, was of no particular significance, but the future conduct of Douglas in public life made it symbolic of the fact, that, during the balance of his career, DOUGLAS was to be at the service of LINCOLN in every move, in every thought that tended to preserve the Union both LINCOLN and DOUGLAS loved so well. . While the war clouds hung low at the time of LINCOLN'S inauguration, yet all hoped that war and secession might be averted. Immediately after LINCOLN took his pfBce as President, DOUGLAS came to Springfield, and spoke before the Legislature of this state. Those who heard it, said it was the mightiest speech that ever fell from the lips of man. DOUGLAS forgot entirely his old political controversy with LINCOLN. He forgot the sorrows of his life, and pleaded now with all his soul, with all his eloquence, with all his leadership, that war might be averted. But it was not so to be. The day Fort Sumpter was fired on, he went to LINCOLN and offered his help and his counsel. LINCOLN, at the time, was considering the appointment of DOUGLAS to a high place in the Union Army. LINCOLN and DOUGLAS were again together, the former as President, and the latter as a Senator of the United States, taking counsel in regard to the measures to be adopted to save the Union from forcible dismemberment. DOUGLAS advised the most ample preparations and the most vigorous action. He then had the entire,confidence of the President, and when they parted. DOUGLAS set out on that last great service of traversing the free States, and rousing them by his resistless eloquence to the great duty of maintaining the Union unbroken. The help of DOUGLAS was of great moment. He spoke because he had earned the right to speak for the large number of people of his political views. In their behalf he pledged them to the Union. He made his last public appeal In the old Wigwam in Chicago, the very place where LINCOLN one short year before had been nominated for President. There, he said, " I deliberated long for a peaceful solution of the great struggle; slavery is only an excuse, the election of LINCOLN is a mere pretext, the present secession movement is a result of an enormous conspiracy formed more than a year since. * * Armies have been raised. War is levied to accomplish it. There are only two sides to the question. Everyone must be for the United States or against it. There can be no neutrals In this war. * * * Thank GOD. Illinois is not divided on this question." That speech is the standard by which his life may be measured. If we remembered him only by that, we would lay at his memory's feet our tribute of gratitude and praise, for he truly spoke the Mason's creed of loyalty. Soon thereafter, he was taken with a swift and fatal illness. In his last days, the salvation of the Republic was still uppermost in his thoughts, by day and by night. His own condition, the imminent peril of death, his corriplicated affairs, gave him no concern. His last coherent words were an ardent wish for the honor and prosperity of the Republic, by the defeat and dispersion of her enemies. He died truly a martyr to his country. I t pleased Providence that both LINCOLN and DOUGLAS should perish in carrying out the great purposes of their hearts. DOUGLAS died of disease contracted in his herculean efforts. In canvassing the North and West in support of the war. LINCOLN died by a dastardly act of cowardice and crime, on the very day the old flag went up on the battlements of Fort Sumpter, in vindication of a nation—unseparable.
44
CORRESPONDENCE—INDIANA.
February,
Happily, t h e one was spared until he saw the people of the free states inspired with his own enthusiasm in the country's cause; the other, until he had made his name immortal, by striking from the limbs of three million human beings the manacles of slavery, and by the preservation of the Union. Just a few days before the death of DOUGLAS in 1861, in this city, his wife bent over him for a message to their sons. His devotion to his country flred him once more: "Tell them to obey the laws and uphold the constitution of the United States" he said •—these were his last words. T h e R e p o r t on Correspondence w a s p r e p a r e d b y M . \ W . ' . B r o t h e r E L M E R E . B E A C H , being his first effort a t t h i s work. H e introduces h i s r e p o r t w i t h a F o r e w o r d . I n this h e refers t o several m a t t e r s such as M a s o n i c E d u c a t i o n , M a s o n i c L a w , a n d P h y s i c a l Qualification. H e s t a r t s off in a sort of bashful m a n n e r , i n d i c a t i n g t h a t h e is fearful t h a t t h e ice is n o t very t h i c k a n d t h e r e is d a n g e r of being submerged. B r o t h e r B E A C H m i g h t j u s t as well t h r o w a s i d e t h i s m o d e s t y a n d j u m p in r e g a r d l e s s of whether t h e w a t e r is cool or w a r m . H e includes with his report a review of o u r 1924 Proceedings, a n d we n o t e h i s s t a t e m e n t t h a t owing t o a m i s t a k e in printing a n d binding only a p o r t i o n of t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s a d d r e s s w a s furnished a n d only a p o r t i o n of t h e Proceedings. I t is e v i d e n t t h a t B r o t h e r B E A C H drew a n i m p e r f e c t copy, which will h a p p e n once in a while. H a d h e notified t h e G r a n d Secretary a perfect copy would h a v e been sent h i m i m . mediately. R. C . D A V E N P O R T , M . " . W . ' . G r a n d M a s t e r , H a r r i s b u r g . O W E N SCOTT, R . - . W . - . G r a n d S e c r e t a r y , D e c a t u r . E L M E R E . B E A C H , P . - . G . . M . - . , C o r r e s p o n d e n t , Chicago.
N e x t A n n u a l , Chicago, October 1 3 , 1 9 2 5 .
INDIANA —1924. Lodges, 558; m e m b e r s , 120,973; n e t gain, 3,899. I n d i a n a p o l i s , M a y 27, 1924.
C H A R L E S A. LIPPINCOTT, M . - . W . - .
Grand Master. As a F o r e w o r d t o t h e Proceedings w e n o t e t h a t a n address was delivered b y their distinguished citizen a n d B r o t h e r , T H O M A S R . M A R S H A L L , former Vice-President of t h e U n i t e d S t a t e s a n d a P a s t G r a n d H i g h P r i e s t of t h e i r G r a n d C h a p t e r . W e t a k e pleasure in q u o t ing t h e following few words from his t a l k : I meet fine men, everywhere I go, talking about evading this and that law. When I ask them how a good citizen can evade the law, their answer is: "Everybody's doing it." Desertion of the old ideals is e.Ncused by "Everybody's doing i t . " Now, if everybody in America is putting his nose into the contending creeds, if religious fanaticisms are being discussed as important, let us not quarrel about whether going down into the stream or going down to it is the ritualistic way prescribed in the Scriptures. Let us thank GOD for the right of free people to worship GOD.
1924-25.
CoBBESPONDENCB—INDIANA.
45
T h i s C o m m u n i c a t i o n was t h e One H u n d r e d S e v e n t h year in t h e h i s t o r y of t h e G r a n d Lodge of I n d i a n a . W e are pleased t o n o t e t h a t B r o t h e r W I L L I A M R I D L E Y , our G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e , was present. T h e G r a n d Lodge was composed of five h u n d r e d forty-seven of t h e five h u n d r e d fifty-eight c h a r t e r e d lodges. T h e following, t a k e n from t h e address of t h e G r a n d M a s t e r , will no doiibt be interesting t o our r e a d e r s : Your Grand Master has been compelled to call the attention of a number of lodges to the fact that they were harboring within their membership brethren guilty of unmasonic conduct in brealfing the laws of the state and nation, some of whom had been found guilty in the Federal Court and condemned to punishment. I directed these lodges to perform their duty and clear the Masonic Fraternity from the stain of aiding or encouraging any man in disrespect and defiance of the law. The charge is often brought against Masonry that it harbors men whose characters stand condemned by law-abiding citizens in their own community. The charge is too often well founded. While it is our duty and our desire to deal charitably with an offending brother, we shall be false to Masonry and thwart its sublime purpose and vitiate its benign influence, If we do not vindicate its character by purging it of men unworthy to bear its honored name. Every Mason holds the good name of our .beloved Craft in his keeping. We have a right to demand of him that he do nothing wilfully to bring reproach upon its sacred character. Lawlessness is growing at an alarming rate in this country. I t is the solemn obligation of every Mason and of every Masonic lodge to observe, respect and reverence the laws of the land. Masonry has been, is, and must continue to be the bulwark of the Constitution, the unfailing support of law and order, the unchangeable foundation of truth, justice and righteousness. U n d ^ r t h e h e a d of " M a s o n r y M i s r e p r e s e n t e d , " he r e p o r t s h a v i n g received a c o m m u n i c a t i o n from t h e m a n a g e r of a publication k n o w n as t h e "Fellowship Forum," issued a t Washington, D . C , a n d c o n spicuous on t h e l e t t e r a c c o m p a n y i n g t h e same were t h e words " F r e e masonry's Representative at t h e National Capitol." The Grand Master v e r y properly t o o k exception t o this s t a t e m e n t and briefly called t h e a t t e n t i o n of t h e m a n a g e r t o t h e s e words, and asked for information as t o t h e source of his a u t h o r i t y as " F r e e m a s o n r y ' s R e p r e s e n t a t i v e . " Of course he received no reply. I n r e p o r t i n g this m a t t e r t h e G r a n d M a s t e r h a s t h e following t o say concerning t h e aforesaid p u b l i c a t i o n : " The Fellowship Forum" is a Ku Klux Klan paper. Circulated, as I have reason to know, in the State of Indiana, and claiming to be "Freemasonry's Representative at the Nation's Capitol." In my judgment the Grand Lodge should make it evident to every member of the Craft in its jurisdiction t h a t this preposterous, impudent, audacious assumption is utterly without foundation In fact. U n d e r " D e c i s i o n s , " which has i n d i r e c t reference t o t h e K l a n , we q u o t e t h e following, which, however, was not a p p r o v e d b y t h e G r a n d Lodge a n d no a m e n d m e n t was m a d e t o t h e laws, a l t h o u g h t h e C o m m i t t e e on J u r i s p r u d e n c e h a d s u b m i t t e d a proposed change: MASONIC LODGE QUABTERS—I have received a number of requests from lodges for information as to whether or not any part of their quarters could be
46
COBBESPONDENCE—IOWA.
February,
used for meetings that were not strictly Masonic. I have replied by referring the writers t o Section No. 122 of t h e Blue Book. In my judgment, however. It would be consistent with Masonic principles t o amend this section so as to permit of meeting of such organizations as Job's Daughters and Knights of DeMolay In some part of the building other than t h e lodge hall itself. In many communities the Masonic lodge building is the only available place for such meetings. Such organizations are worthy of our encouragement.
We fear the Grand Master was wading in deep water when he undertook to separate the sheep frorn the goats. If he is to extend official recognition to such organizations as Job's Daughters and Knights of DeMolay why not extend it to the other twenty-seven similar organizations which are now rampant throughout the country? The Grand Master ruled that no lodge could exempt their Secretary from the payment of dues as the law provided that every Mason must pay dues to his lodge unless they are remitted. One of their lodges wanted to know whether they should use the newly adopted Funeral Ritual or whether it was permissible to use the old one, and whether it would be out of order for the officers to wear Tuxedo suits. The Grand Master ruled that the new Funeral Ritual, having been adopted by the Grand Lodge, must be used, but it would be perfectly proper and right to wear Tuxedo suits if the funeral were held after 6:00 P. M., and a dinner is to be served. Nothing like jollity and mirth. Through the Ritual Committee the lodges are soon to be supplied with a music song book for use in conferring the degrees. The Report on Correspondence, prepared by M.'.W.'. Brother ELMER F . GAY, contains a review of our 1924 Proceedings in which he covers about all of the more important matters which came to the attention of t h e Grand Lodge at that Communication. J. L E E DINWIDDIE, M . " . W . \ G r a n d Master, Fowler. WILLIAM H . SWINTZ, R . - . W . ' . Grand Secretary, Indianapolis. ELMER F . GAY, P . - . G . \ M . - . , Correspondent, Indianapolis.
Next Annual, Indianapolis, May 4, 1925.
IOWA —1924. Lodges, 552; members, 83,871; net gain, 2,466. Des Moines, June 10, 1924.
MiLO JOHN GABRIEL, M.-.W.-.Grand
Master. Prior to the opening of the Grand Lodge a public meeting was held in the Iowa Theater, being called to order by the Deputy Grand Master. T h e exercises opened with the introduction of the Grand Master by the oldest Uving Past Grand Master in their jurisdiction, Brother JAMES D . GAMBLE.
An address of welcome was extended by
Brother B E N GIBSON, Attorney-General of the State of Iowa, to which response was made by M.-.W.-. Brother CHARLES C . CLARK. Follow-
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—IOWA.
47
ing this the Masters of all the lodges in Des Moines were presented, there being nine in number. Then followed the introduction of the Grand Matron of the Eastern Star, Companion GEORGE E . MASTERS, Grand High Priest, and R.'.E.-. Sir ACE WEBSTER, Grand Commander. We note the Grand Matron was introduced first, no doubt with the thought of being courteous to the ladies; however, as this was distinctly a Masonic occasion and the post of honor is always in the rear, this introduction should have followed the Grand Commander. We notice, however, that things were evened up as several other lady officers were introduced after the Grand Commander, and then as a conclusion and surprise to the Grand Master, his wife and daughter were presented to the members. Immediately following this we notice that the Grand Master announced that all those not members of the Order should retire before they proceeded to open Grand Lodge. The Grand Master in submitting his report expresses appreciation for the assistance given him during the year by others, and we take pleasure in quoting the following few words: I wish to emphasize the fact that it is only through t o the co-operative assistance of my brethren that I have been able to do what has been done. I feel cert£iln that only with the assistance of the Craft, and perhaps necessitating, as I beUeve, a continuous secretarial help, can the Grand Master of the future perform his labors with that proficiency that is so Mghly valued by the Craft.
Under the head of "Dispensations to Reballot," we notice that a number were issued during the year, but in each case the Grand Master required that due notice be sent to every member who was present when the first ballot was taken. We woiider how such procedure ia possible in the larger lodges, as our observation has been that the socalled Member's Register is a snare and delusion. In Kansas we think a better plan, in all cases where a question is raised in regard to the result of a ballot, is to allow the required six months time to remedy any mistakes made. The Grand Master pays his respects to the so-called Klan, and we quote the following from his conclusion under that subject; Personally, I cannot believe that it is necessary for any Mason in Iowa to go outside of the province of the Fraternity to function as a loyal American citizen. Freemasonry stands for these United States, first, last and always— Its traditions, ideals and its future as determined by the Fathers of the Republic —and will resist any encroachment upon our rights and liberties. If each Mason exhausts every channel of useful citizenship that Masonry points out to him, he cannot but be a patriot and a man.
Among the several inserts we notice a group picture of what ia termed "Members of the Advisory Council of the Griand Master." As the picture includes men, women and children we venture a guess the Grand Master was well supported during his administration. Under the head of "Uniform Blanks" the Grand Master calls attention to the need of standard forms. This is indeed an important matter; however, in Kansas we adopted complete standard forms, not
48
CORRESPONDENCE—lo
WA.
February,
only for t h e Grand L o d g e b u t for all c o n s t i t u t e n t lodges, a n d therefore we h a v e no trouble i n t h a t p a r t i c u l a r . T h e j o u r n a l is also embellished w i t h a picture of M r s . LuciLE L . B L A I R a n d F R A N K L . B L A I R , t h e former t h e daughter of their l a t e B r o t h e r C H A R L E S L I N D E R M A N , a n d w h o desires t o memoralize her father b y m a k i n g t h e G r a n d Lodge t h e custodian of a T r u s t F u n d of $100,000.00 t o be u s e d for aiding a n d securing an e d u c a t i o n for such children as can be cared for. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r is n o t wholly satisfied with their law in regard t o M a s o n i c trials, believing t h a t it would be a good plan t o appoint a commission for each trial, or a s t a n d i n g commission for t h e year, t o t a k e t e s t i m o n y in all such cases. H o w e v e r , he makes t h e following recommendation: In the matter of Alasonic trials already alluded to, I recommend that the matter be left in the hands of local lodges as at present, but that in each and every case there shall be present, as a direct representative of the Grand Master, a brother versed in Masonic Jurisprudence and procedure, whose province shall be to preside at the trial and lend such assistance as may be necessary, to the end that the interest of justice be maintained and that the peace and harmony of the lodge be preserved. This practice w o u l d be along t h e lines of our own, in which our laws require t h a t t h e District D e p u t y G r a n d M a s t e r shall preside a t all trials in his district in t h e absence of t h e G r a n d Master, unless for good cause the G r a n d M a s t e r deems it best t o a p p o i n t some other P a s t Master. W e t a k e great pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following few lines from his conclusion: In the after days, as the sun will be setting over the hills of the golden west,. to arise again for me but a few times on this old earth, I can see myself wending again and again into the garden of memories and gathering there those choice recollections haloed with the beauty of the years and the heritage of my year of service as your Grand Master. Their faithful G r a n d S e c r e t a r y a n d L i b r a r i a n , Brother N E W T O N R . F A R V I N , presents his usual complete r e p o r t s a n d while space will n o t p e r m i t of copying m u c h therefrom which will be interesting t o our readers, y e t we cannot refrain from q u o t i n g the'following concerning his r e p o r t as Librarian, s u b m i t t e d b y t h e C o m m i t t e e on L i b r a r y : Our Masonic Library is justly popular, due in large measure to the great zeal and constant effort of our Librarian, than whom there is no more beloved Mason in Iowa. We most heartily commend him for all his efforts in this direction. Our earnest wish is that more Masons would avail themselves of their golden opportunity to bring themselves in touch with the writings of the great and good of all ages,—particularly Masonic literature which has so greatly blessed and enriched its readers, developing their minds, increasing their culture, enlarging their hearts, and ennobling their lives. • We appreciate the Masonic Service and Quarterly Bulletins. These keep us informed in regard to what our Masonic brethren are doing and they keep us abreast of the times. I t is our judgment that the number of times they are
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—IRELAND.
. 49
Issued and all other matters pertaining ttereto, should be left to the good judgment of the Librarian. We note with pleasure the increasing demand for more of these Bulletins shomng a deeper interest on the part of our brethren. We commend the report in regard to the Iowa'Library publications as set forth in the report; and also the report in regard to the binding of books, periodicals, and the Proceedings of the various Masonic bodies. We appreciate the wise judgment of the Librarian in saving in the binding of these books wherever that saving may be wisely done. B r o t h e r P A R V I N calls a t t e n t i o n t o t h e need of additional help in their L i b r a r y a n d t h r o u g h t h e proper c o m m i t t e e their per capita t a x of twenty-five cents for library expenses was increased t o t h i r t y cents. W e are in t h e same b o a t with B r o t h e r P A R V I N in t h e m a t t e r of employing library help. W e have t h e m o n e y b u t t h e question is one of securing c o m p e t e n t h e l p t o carry on t h e work. T o t h e writer, one of t h e m o s t pleasing t h i n g s in t h e Proceedings is t h a t relating t o t h e presentation of a fifty year m e m b e r s h i p certificate to Brother
PARVIN.
T h e proposition of establishing a s a n i t a r i u m w a s presented t o t h e G r a n d Lodge t h r o u g h their C o m m i t t e e on Masonic Sanitarium, a n d after t h e m a t t e r was given due consideration t h e recommendation of t h e c o m m i t t e e was adopted, which is as follows: We therefore recommend that proper legislation be enacted—• To authorize appointment by the Grand Master of a regular standing committee, or board of trustees, with power to purchase real estate, establish, erect, equip, open and maintain an institution for those Masons of this jurisdiction and their dependents whose necessities or infirmities may be best cared for therein; To provide funds necessary to establish, erect, equip and maintain such an Institution, and to carry Into effect all the intents and purposes of these recommendations. T h e R e p o r t on Correspondence is again s u b m i t t e d b y M.'. W.". B r o t h e r L o u i s B L O C K a n d includes a review of o u r 1923 Proceedings. E R N E S T ROBERT MOORE, M . - . W . ' . Grand Master, Cedar Rapids.
N E W T O N R . P A R V I N , R . - . W . - . G r a n d Secretary, Cedar Rapids. LOUIS BLOCK, P . - . G . - . M . ' . , Correspondent, Davenport.
N e x t A n n u a l , D a v e n p o r t , J u n e 9, 1925.
IRELAND-1923. Lodges, 650; members, 50,000; n e t gain . Dublin, December 2 7 , 1 9 2 3 . T h e R t . H o n . T h e E A R L O P D O N O U G H MORE, G r a n d M a s t e r . U n d e r t h e h e a d of " D e a t h R o l l , " h e r e p o r t s t h e passing a w a y of B r o t h e r J O H N H O L D B R O O K , w h o m h e s t a t e s was k n o w n t o every Mason in I r e l a n d . F o r forty years h e h a d been a d e v o t e d m e m b e r t o t h e service of charities, a n d t h e y were his " g r e a t m o n u m e n t . " Reference is likewise m a d e t o several other p r o m i n e n t m e m b e r s of t h a t jurisdiction.
50
COBBESPONDENCE—IRELAND.
February,
Under the head of "Spirit of the Times," we take pleasure in quoting the following from the Grand Master's address: It Is frequently said that Freemasons are a conservative body. We are conservative in the best sense, In the fact t h a t we obstinately adhere to what we believe to be the Ancient Landmarks of the Order (hear, hear), and that is an obstinacy, brethren, that I am sure we shall all be unanimous in preserving. At the same time we must not shut our eyes to what are familiarly known as world movements. "We are wise to continually ask ourselves the question as to our own efficiency. The habit of self-examination, though sometimes painful and often difficult, is a very healthy one, especially in all matters of organization and such like things, which must always keep u p with the spirit of the times. Of course I have never heard it said in Freemasonry, but I have heard it said in other walks of life in Ireland, that Ireland is too much in the hands of old men. I have always denied t h a t theory myself, because it is wise to do so, if only as an insurance as t o what may be before oneself (laughter). But I should always deny that accusation as applied to Freemasonry. Nobody could have ever argued that our late Borther Sir CHAKLES CAMEEON was an old man at the age of eighty-seven. He was the youngest man in spirit that I have ever had to deal with, and I should have no difficulty in ruling, if it was ever put to me, that the Grand Lodge of Ireland is always, ex-officio of middle age—that is to say, it has the wisdom of age and the enthusiasm of yoiith. W e consider t h e following from t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s a d d r e s s u n d e r t h e s u b j e c t of " F o r e i g n R e l a t i o n s " q u i t e a good joke on t h e G r a n d Lodge of N e w Y o r k , w h o p r e s u m e d t o extend t o t h e G r a n d Lodge of Ireland a n i n v i t a t i o n t o a t t e n d a conference a t G e n e v a : I have w^ithin the last few days seen in a recently published book a figure tliat astonished me. I t is not officially published, but is by a brother who has. engaged in considerable Masonic research. He estimates that there are roughly four million Masons in the world, and that of that four millions three and a-half millions are members of English speaking lodges. If this be true, it shows that Freemasonry has potentially an enormous power for good, for if the English speaking Grand Lodges can control Freemasons—by control I do not mean in the official management sense, b u t in the sense that they can control the spirit in which Freemasonry does its work in the world, its power for good is very great. Of course we have to be careful. We are a conservative body, and we are interested in adherents to the Ancient Landmarks of the Order. Some of you have probably noticed that there is to be a Conference shortly at Geneva, a t which a number of Grand Lodges are to meet in conference and discuss subjects of mutual interest. I don't think we did have an actual definite invitation to attend. We had a letter from the Grand Lodge of New York—they somehow suspected t h a t we would not attend—asking us why we would not be present. The letter was a very long one, coming from a brother whose acquaintance I am pleased to have. We answered it very shortly by saying simply this, " W e have in our knowledge the fact that this Conference will be attended by a number of Grand Lodges who do not recognize the Ancient Landmarks as we insist on them, and as long as that is so we shall not go into conference with any such body."
Interesting reports were made by the Deputy Grand Master and the Grand Secretary. In the latter's report we note that during the year twenty-five lodges were constituted. The R t . Hon. The EARL OF DONOUGHMORB, K . P., M.-.W.-. Grand
Master. HENRY C . SHELLARD, R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary, Dublin.
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—KENTUCKY.
51
KENTUCKY—1923. Lodges, 614; members, 71,026; net gain, 1,766. Louisville, October 16,1923. EMERSON E . NELSON, M.-. W . ' . Grand
Master. The Grand Lodge was extended a cordial welcome by the mayor of Louisville, Brother
HUSTON QUIN, which on motion, was
ordered
printed in the Proceedings. Among other things the Grand Master had the following to say in submitting his annual address: If we fail to lead we shall be unworthy of those Masons of our own state who conceived the idea of building here a Masonic Home,—the first in the United States. To go forward in the spirit which animated those pioneers of charity, and raise a fund for building the New Home for widows and orphans has seemed to me the most important special work committed to my administration. The response to our efforts has been whole-hearted and refreshing, and though we have not yet fully attained our object, the attitude of our lodges is an issiirance of success. U n d e r t h e h e a d of " N e c r o l o g y , " h e calls a t t e n t i o n t o t h e loss sustained t h r o u g h t h e d e a t h of their P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r a n d G r a n d T r e a s u r e r , M.-. W.'. B r o t h e r J O H N H E S S L E A T H E R S .
U n d e r t h e h e a d of " V i s i t a t i o n s , " h e calls a t t e n t i o n t o t h e condition of t h e W o r k in their jurisdiction in t h e following w o r d s : I found the work in almost every lodge differing, and being carried out after the manner best suited to the degree team putting on the worlc. There has been for some time a great demand for imiform work and I am of the opinion that it would be one of the best steps that could be taken by the Grand Lodge of Kentucky, that they formulate some plan whereby uniform work can be established in this jurisdiction. U n d e r t h e h e a d of " O p i n i o n s , " t h e writer c a n n o t refrain from quoting a n i n q u i r y m a d e of t h e G r a n d M a s t e r , which is exceedingly amusing: Another lodge inquired whether, when a member of the Order had joined a plot, and held up a bank messenger on the highway, carrying money from one bank to another, and robbed him and had been convicted in court and was then serving in the penitentiary, whether it was necessary to go through the formality of a trial, whether they could close the deal without shuffling the cards, erase the name and forget such a character. I was forced to inform them that it was not permissible under our law and practice summarily to expel a member, but that it was necessary that charges be preferred and the trial proceed in the usual manner. T h e following questions were also s u b m i t t e d , a n d which a r e l i k e wise-amusing: What should be done with a member of a lodge who forcibly took from a. boy three glasses of communion wine while he was carrying them from the church on Sunday; and (b) What should be done with a man who refused to pay an honest debt and had fought and wounded an officer who undertook to attach his corn. In the first instance I directed that charges of unmasonic
52
COBBESPONDENCE—KENTUCKY.
February,
conduct be immediately filed against the offending member; and in the second Instance t h a t being unable to pay a debt was not unmasonlc conduct, b u t that the lodge should, if possible, ascertain whether the accused was trying to evade the debt. In his conclusion we take pleasure in quoting the following words: I say it is character that counts, that wields influence for good, and gives to the righteous decrees of an organization an irresistible power over its own members and indirectly over the entire community. There is nothing that enfeebles this power like indulging in immorality, but a lazy toleration of imImmorality, by those who are moral is almost as debilitating as Immorality Itself. These things lower the temperature of spiritual fervor, and without this fervor no real good can be accomplished. We quote the following remarks made by a brother who stated t h a t this was his forty-third year to attend Grand Lodge and he felt that the conditions to which he referred were a violation of the Constitution: I attended a funeral at one of the oldest and most respected lodges in our State, and of which one of our Past Grand Masters is a member. I stepped into that lodge and found in the Senior Warden's station a brother with a Shrine cap on, and another brother in the Junioi- Warden's station with a Shrine cap on. I asked him if the lodge had yet been opened and he said, "no, we don't open the lodge a t a funeral." I n the procession there were three pallbearers on one side, one wearing a Shrine cap, and two of the three on the other side wearing Shrine caps, and in the procession there were fourteen Shrine caps, without the white apron. In the procession the Eastern Star was given the place of honor. Now, sir, knowing as I do, that that is contrary to the Constitution of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky, I move that you appoint a committee to arrange the formation of the line and all other things necessary for the correct conduct of a funeral ceremony, in accordance, of course, with the Constitution of the Grand Lodge. I believe we ought to have a uniform way to do that, and one that we won't be ashamed of, and one that would be in strict accord with the Constitution of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky, No action was taken in regard to his remarks, and immediately following the same a motion was made and adopted that when the Grand Lodge '"adjourned" Thursday, it do so sine die. The Grand Secretary was instructed to have the photographs of their Past Grand Masters now hanging in his office, placed in panels of uniform size. He was likewise instructed to sell to the best advantage the frames now containing the pictures. They were honored at this Communication with the presence of M.'. W.'. WILLIAM F . KUHN, Past Grand Master of Missouri, and our present General Grand High Priest of the General Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons. Through the Committee on Jurisprudence it was decided to have a Committee on Work, consisting of seven Past Masters, members of Kentucky lodges, one to be appointed from each appelate judicial district. Other details in connection with the establishment of this important committee were covered in the report.
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—LOUISIANA.
53
We note the salary of the Grand Secretary was increased to $3,600.00, and that he is also to be paid at the rate of ten cents per hundred words for all copies of records and documents. The Report on Correspondence was presented by M.'.W.'. WILLIAM W. CLARKE, and includes a review of our 1923 Proceedings. A. E. ORTON, M . - . W . \ G r a n d Master, Dawson Springs. FRED W . HARDWICK, R.-.W.".Grand Secretary, Louisville. WILLIAM W . CLARKE, P .-. G .-. M .-., Correspondent, Owensboro.
Next Annual, Louisville, October 21, 1924.
LOUISIANA —1924. Lodges, 268; members, 33,214; net gain, 1,949. New Orleans, February 4, 1924.
JOSEPH SINAI,. M . - . W . - . Grand
Master. When the roll of Past Grand Officers was called, M.-. W.'. Brother E. H. ADDINGTON answered for the name of Past Grand MasteivA. C. ALLEN, who passed away on September 20,1923. We note the absence of our Grand Representative at this Communication, and this was likewise the case one year ago. The Grand Master undoubtedly was busy in issuing dispensations as it requires ten pages of the Proceedings to record these transactions. While this is the case we notice that it requires two pages to record those refused. He made forty-two rulings during the year, most of which are in reply to ordinary questions which developed from time to time in lodges. One of their secretaries desired to know whether their lodge could join a Masonic Athletic Association. The Grand Master answered by stating that as the Grand Lodge had sanctioned this Association he believed it was proper for the lodge to donate moneys to assist it, and for the lodge to join. The Master of one of their lodges asked if a man applied for the degrees of Masonry and sbme brother felt satisfied that his wife is not living a right kind of a life, whether it would be proper and right for the brother to stop the candidate. Under the subject of "Physical Qualifications," the Grand Master is of the opinion that we should admit the intelligent man, regardless of physical impairment. - • The Grand Master favors the plan of nominating Grand Officers, and cites the custom of the Grand Lodges of Mississippi and Texas. In Texas they are nominated without a speech, while Mississippi grants each brother a space of two to three minutes. The Grand Lodge, by resolution, provided that all their regulations should be amended so
54
COBBESPONDENCE—LOUISIANA.
February,
as t o g r a n t permission t o n o m i n a t e all G r a n d Officers," b u t this privilege s h o u l d n o t be extended t o t h e lodges. f- |& Our friends in L o u i s i a n a a r e possessed of t h e indifferent officers in s o m e of t h e lodges, t h e s a m e as t h e y a r e in o u r own, a n d we q u o t e t h e following from his a d d r e s s on t h i s s u b j e c t : For many years the Grand Lodge has been blessed with two very competent Grand Lecturers, whose duty it is to Instruct in the esoteric work prescribed by t h e Grand Lodge; the Grand Secretary's monthly circular demonstrates that the Grand Lecturers make itineraries and the lodges are advised in ample time so that they can meet the Grand Lecturer on the date he has fixed for his visit to instruct, at least, the officers of the lodge; the officers, therefore, have no excuse for not learning the esoteric work; but my information is to the effect that there is a large percentage of officers in the various constitutent lodges who do not know Louisiana work, and many of these are making no attempt, or very little attempt, to learn it; in some instances the Grand Lecturer, who Is the paid offlcer of the Grand Lodge, goes into a lodge, and finds not a single offlcer there, although ample notice of his visit has been given, and the officers know that he must make up his itinerary in advance, with very little opportunity of a return visit left liim. H o w e v e r , in our own j u r i s d i c t i o n where an officer does not qualify a n d it comes t o the knowledge of t h e p r o p e r officers, he is obliged t o l e a r n t h e W o r k or b e severely criticised b y t h e G r a n d M a s t e r for n o t doing so. I n all such cases, however, t h e lodge is t o b l a m e . T h e G r a n d Master s u b m i t s a form of questions t o be m a d e a p a r t -of each p e t i t i o n for t h e M y s t e r i e s of M a s o n r y , a n d we observe t h a t it - c o n t e m p l a t e s answering f o r t y questions. I t almost reminds one of filling o u t a n application for life i n s u r a n c e . H e likewise suggests a :form of questions for investigating c o m m i t t e e s . T h e r e are twenty-six •of t h e s e questions t o be answered. B o t h t h e s e subjects are to be re; p o r t e d on a t t h e next C o m m u n i c a t i o n of t h e G r a n d Lodge. A m o n g his recommendations we notice one which deprives every n e w l y m a d e Master Mason of his r i g h t s a n d privileges until he h a s ilearned t h e lecture of t h a t dfegree. W e t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following from his conclusion: Let us as Masons, well instructed, make possible the great fundamentals of our wonderful Order, " the Fatherhood of GOD and the Brotherhood of Man." Let us cast out the beam that is in our own eye before we seek to pluck out the mote in oiu- brother's eye, and then let us throw aside our indifference, apathy and lethargy, and zealously and devotedly expend our best energy and all of our strength to live according to the Good Book, in peace and harmony—first with £ach other, and then m t h our neighbor, the World. Lodges are now authorized t o confer t h e Second a n d Third D e grees on as m a n y as t e n c a n d i d a t e s a t one a n d t h e same c o m m u n i c a t i o n . T h i s a u t h o r i t y is given in order t o relieve t h e G r a n d M a s t e r from t h e irksome d u t y of issuing special dispensations. Heretofore t h e n u m b e r h a s been l i m i t e d to five. T h e C o m m i t t e e on J u r i s p r u d e n c e is opposed t o raffles a n d t h e like, as n o t e d in the following w o r d s : In regard to the official circulars issued by the Grand Master your committee Jieartily approves the one dealing with "Kaffles, Fairs and Bazaars." Your
1924-25.
CoBBESPONDENCE—LOUISIANA.
55
committee believes tliat any Mason who is guilty of conducting gambling devices for the purpose of raising money whether it be for Masonic or charitable purposes. Is violating the State law and is guilty of unmasonic conduct and should be dealt with by his lodge and we lU'ge this course of procedure against any who may be giiilty of such an offense.
The committee took affirmative action on the communication issued by the Grand Master in regard to violation of the prohibitory law, in which he urged that charges be preferred against any Mason guilty of disobeying the Eighteenth Amendment. Our good brethren of Louisiana manifested their loyalty by the adoption of the following resolution: Resolved, That the symbol of our Country's Government, the Flag of the United States, hereafter shall always be displayed near the Altar of tliis Grand Lodge when in Communication, and that the first salute by the brethren always shall be to the Flag.
In Kansas, many, many years ago, we provided a regulation requiring every lodge in the jurisdiction to have the Colors displayed at every Communication. However, we did not go to the extent of displaying it near the Altar or saluting the same by the brethren. The Report on Correspondence was again presented by their Grand Secretary, Brother JOHN A. DAVILLA. In reviewing Kansas he mentions the Certificate for Transfer proposition, stating that their Grand Lodge tried it but reversed their action later on, and now require the issuance of the usual dimit. Brother DAVILLA will find in our 1924 Proceedings that the Grand Lodge transferred the labors of the transfer system to the office of the Grand Secretary. Of course the capacity of Grand Secretaries is unlimited both physically and mentally, or at least that is the way the average individual looks at the proposition. Referring to the New Hampshire proposition he has'the right idea. His comment is to the effect that if the receipt is not documentary evidence, what is it? His reference to Kansas covers practically all of the more important transactions and we are allowed a liberal amount of space in his excellent review. P"
PRENTISS B . CARTER, M . ' . W . - . Grand Master, Franklinton. JOHN A. DAVILLA, R . \ W ' . " . Grand Secretary and Correspondent,
New Orleans. Next Annual, New Orleans, February 2, 1925.
56
CORRESPONDENCE—MAINE.
February,
MAINE—1924. Lodges, 206; members, 42,556; net gain, 826. Portland, May 6, 1924. ALBERT M . SPEAR, M.-.W.-. Grand Master. Our Grand Representative, Brother ARCHIE L E E TALBOT, was present as usuaL The Grand Secretary reported t h a t all railroads interested had granted them a special rate of one and one-third and one and one-half fare for this Communication, with the exception of the Boston and Maine Railroad, who declined to grant any favors whatever. We admit that it is not a very good advertisement for the latter railroad and we are inclined to believe t h a t there is sufficient of the Revolutionary fighting spirit in our Maine brethren that they will not forget this incident. The Grand. Master, who is just completing his second year of service, has the following to say in submitting his address: During my two years of ofHcial service as Grand Master I have had opportunities to meet and mingle with the leading members of the Fraternity from every State in the American jurisdiction, and with not a few from foreign countries. These opportunities, have not depended upon the occasion of a banquet, where, as a rule, good fellowship and spoken platitudes are dominent features, but upon the occasion of conventions of wide Masonic interest and of national importance. Those meetings were composed not only of the most influential A'lasons but largely of the most distinguished citizens from nearly every State. As never before 1 am impressed with the dignity, the influence and the power of Masonry. We measure all things by contrast. Measured by this standard 1 am compelled to acknowledge that our jurisdiction, in comparison with other jurisdictions, is among the most conservative and least progressive of the entire country. Let me not be misunderstood. With reference to all that pertains to the observance of the fundamentals of Masonry,—the Ancient Landmarks, the Ancient Charges, the Old Regulations, the Constitution, Laws, Customs and Usages of the Fraternity I am a strict constructionist. Adherence to these underlying principles, like adherence to the principles of Christianity, is the policy that has preserved Masonry in its present integrity and usefulness. But there is another side to Masonry. In later years that side has begun to grow. Especially is this true during and since the World War. The stress of that war which brought together upon the plane of equality, the noble and the plebe, the rich and the poor, the Gentile and the .lew, the proud and the meek, the Protestant and the Catholic, and swept from ijower the existence of European royalty, opened up to the future new visions of duty, new fields of activity, and proved to the world that service, not display, was the true mission of life. No institution has come more within the spell of this new era than the Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons. We have done but little in this State for fifty years that has tended to establish efflciency of service which it is the plain duty of Masonry to do, and which it is capable of doing. Under the head of " Reading Matter for use in Masonic Lodges," he has the following to say: I have in my library, among other Masonic works, seven large volumes edited by MACKEY and all devoed to a discussion of the sources, traditions.
X924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—MAINE.
57
mysteries, theory, and the written and unwritten history of the rites and ceremonies of the different orders of Masonry. I may also add t h a t the work I have is only one of thousands that have been published upon the subject of Freemasonry. It Is perfectly obvious, however, that the ordinary Masonic lodge cannot possess these massive works, and consequently they are not available to the Fraternity at large, and would be of b u t little value if they were. I confess my inability to get much satisfaction from their contents. But in striving to meet the goal of Masonic requirement, wliich we can, perhaps,'never fully do, we must make available to every Mason In our jurisdiction some source of information, which, In my opinion, can only be done by the installation of small and readable libraries, the distribution of practical and useful literature, and Masonic addresses as above suggested- We have more or less books, some current literature and the newspapers, in all our homes now, and take pains to inform ourselves more or less upon nearly every subject of interest. T h e a b o v e is indeed t r u e a n d we v e n t u r e t o a d d t h a t from our own experience t h e various subjects which come u n d e r t h e general h e a d of F r e e m a s o n r y m u s t be a d m i n i s t e r e d in small q u a n t i t i e s ; otherwise t h e average m e m b e r will grow tired of listening t o discussions of t h i s kind, a n d his patience will become e x h a u s t e d before completing m a n y works dealing with t h e L a n d m a r k s a n d A n c i e n t C h a r g e s of t h e Fraternity. U n d e r t h e h e a d of " C o n d i t i o n of t h e O r d e r " we only quote t h r e e lines, as t h e y s p e a k volumes i n t h e m s e l v e s : There is too much soliciting, due perhaps to a commendable, yet improvident zeal which must be discouraged, if the high standing of Masonry is to be preserved. W e t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following from his conclusion: , How essential It is then that we impress each individual member of the Craft with the sentiment that Masonry means loyalty; loyalty to GOD; loyalty to the home; loyalty to the school; loyalty to society; loyalty to the State; loyalty to the Nation; loyalty to a brother, and loyalty to the Fraternity. I want to repeat, it is the individual member who must be reached, it is the development of individual character that Masonry seeks to attain. When we shall have succeeded in inculcating such a spirit of loyalty In the individual. Masonry will rest secure upon a solid foundation and will stand for true American ideal,—a bulwark against Invasion of law and order by any sinister power, will remain true to the principles of Brotherly Love, ReUef and Truth, and become a potent agency in the affairs of civil life. But we have not yet attained this standard. Masonic energy is too largely running to waste. Brother CHARLES B . DAVIS, their efficient Grand Secretary, submits an interesting report. However, we note a little matter out of the ordinary under the head of "Widow's Certificates," in which it Is stated t h a t one of their lodges had sent him a. dozen blank forms for. the widows of Master Masons to be attested by him as Grand Secretary. This he declined to do and reported the facts to the Grand Lodge. The subject was referred to the Committee on Jurisprudence, who recommended that no action be taken in the matter, and the proposition therefore died "aborning." The Grand Lodge very properly declined to extend fraternal recognition to what is termed the National Grand Lodge of Italy.
58
CORRESPONDENCE—MANITOBA.
February.
T h e i r ^ G r a n d Lodge declined t o m a k e a n a p p r o p r i a t i o n for t h e t u b e r c u l a r hospital in N e w Mexico, y e t w e notice i m m e d i a t e l y following t h i s a c t i o n t h a t t h e F i n a n c e C o m m i t t e e calls a t t e n t i o n t o m o r e t h a n $7,500.00 having been raised a m o n g their lodges for t h e George W a s h i n g t o n Masonic N a t i o n a l Memorial. U n d e r their r e g u l a t i o n s , all candidates when raised, a r e entitled t o a M a s t e r M a s o n ' s d i p l o m a . I t w a s proposed t o curtail t h i s l a w a n d p r o v i d e t h a t t h e y would only be entitled t o said diploma after t h e y h a d c o m m i t t e d t h e lecture of t h e T h i r d Degree. T h e C o m m i t t e e on A m e n d m e n t s t o t h e C o n s t i t u t i o n , however, t o o k a different view of t h e m a t t e r a n d t h e law r e m a i n s as i t was. A n interesting R e p o r t on Correspondence was again p r e p a r e d b y B r o t h e r A S H L E Y A. S M I T H ; however, we n o t e t h a t no reference is m a d e t o K a n s a s . W e are q u i t e a t a loss t o u n d e r s t a n d t h i s a s o u r Proceedings were issued in a m p l e t i m e for B r o t h e r S M I T H t o h a v e included o u r 1923 in his r e p o r t . D A V I D E . M O U L T O N , M.-.W.".Grand M a s t e r , P o r t l a n d . C H A R L E S B . D A V I S , R . ' . W . ' . G r a n d Secretary, Masonic T e m p l e , Portland. A S H L E Y A. S M I T H , C o r r e s p o n d e n t , B a n g o r .
N e x t A n n u a l , P o r t l a n d , M a y 5, 1925.
MANITOBA—1924. Lodges, 94; members, 11,078; n e t gain, 394. Winnipeg, J u n e 1 1 , 1924. W I L L I A M J. MA.IOR, M.-.W.". G r a n d Master. R.". W.'. B r o t h e r J A B E ? M I L L E R , our G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e , w a s a t h i s post of d u t y . T h e G r a n d M a s t e r in s u b m i t t i n g his a n n u a l address h a s little t o s a y in t h e preface o t h e r t h a n extending a h e a r t y a n d cordial welcome to the brethren. We t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following from his subject of "Refreshment Hours:" I have referred t o some changes which might with profit be made in the procedure at the regular meetings of lodges. Now let me speali of the refreshment hour. The hour to be devoted to social Intercourse. Should not the same caution be used in tyling the door of the banquet room as is used in tyling the door of the lodge? The practice of introducing entertainers of no Masonic standing is growing so fast that the propriety of sufh a practice is worthy of consideration. ;i To me, t h e refreshment hour is as much a part of the lodge meeting as t h e ceremonies in the lodge room. Its standard of excellence should be as high as that in the lodge room, its atmosphere should be refining and the tenor of all addresses and entertainment should be educational. Let innocent mirth be there in abundance, let us have wholesome song and humorous story but let it be always understood that at the table of a Freemason Impurity of thought, speech and conduct are prohibited.
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—MANITOBA.
59
At these gatherings there are always Masonic toasts and they should not be proposed or responded to in the presence of strangers. It is, therefore, in my opinion, quite essential that care be taken in selecting entertainers. Our hospitality is extended on amost every occasion to those who are engaged to entertain. They are seated with us as guests and, worthy or unworthy to become Masons, they are given the same privileges as the members of the lodge. H e r e c o m m e n d e d t h a t t h e question of a revision of their R i t u a l a n d Ceremonies b e referred t o their B o a r d of General P u r p o s e s for a r e p o r t one year h e n c e . T h e following from his conclusion will b e interesting t o o u r brethren: "Within our own border there lies a great and ever growing spirit of brotherhood which seelcs to ennoble the lives and enrich the souls of its members by the development of moral character and spiritual vision and by its benign influence . strives to establish peace and good will among tiie people. Let us at this Communication and in our lodge assemblies and in our private Uves ever seek to suijjjort and strengthen its noble mission and ever remember that it is only by the development of the art of living in peace together that we can banish class hatreds, establish mutual respect among nations, destroy the suspicions and jealousies which have caused more wars than anything else in the world and bring about a reign of international peace that will endure throughout the ages. W e n o t e a n e r r o r in t h e synopsis of r e t u r n s in which t h e y h a v e o m i t t e d proper a c c o u n t i n g for t w o m e m b e r s suspended for u n m a s o n i c c o n d u c t . T h e m e m b e r s h i p therefore is 11,076 a n d n o t 11,078 as r e p o r t e d . W e consider this a joke on their G r a n d Secretary, B r o t h e r OVAS. T h e R e p o r t on Correspondence w a s s u b m i t t e d b y t h e C h a i r m a n , now t h e i r p r e s e n t G r a n d Master, M.-.W.-. J A M E S S . M A C E W I N G , a n d includes a review of o u r 1923 Proceedings, from which h e quotes all t h a t portion of t h e address of our G r a n d M a s t e r dealing w i t h t h e N e w H a m p s h i r e proposition. T h e preface t o this excellent r e p o r t , u n d e r t h e h e a d of " O n D i t , " is so t h o r o u g h l y i n accord w i t h t h e policy of o u r own G r a n d Lodge t h a t t h e writer has t a k e n t h e l i b e r t y of copying a large portion in his i n t r o d u c t i o n t o this r e p p r t . J A M E S S . M A C E W I N G , M.-.W.-. G r a n d M a s t e r , T r e h e r n e . J A M E S A. O V A S , R . - . W . - . G r a n d S e c r e t a r y , W i n n i p e g .
N e x t A n n u a l , Winnipeg, J u n e 10, 1925.
60
CORBESPONDENCE—MARYLAND.
February,
MARYLAND—1923. Lodges, 117; members, 30,489; net gain, 857. Semi-Annual Communication, Baltimore, May 8, 1923. Owing to the illness of the Grand Master, M.'. W.': Brother WABREN S . SEIPP, the station was occupied by Brother GEORGE W . LIVINGSTON, Deputy Grand Master. An excellent likeness of M.'. W.\ Brother S E I P P is made the frontispiece of this volume. The picture is certainly a splendid one as the writer remembers Brother SEIPP. The proposition of establishing a Masonic Home, as indicated in our former report, is before their Grand Lodge, and as.we are greatly interested in our own Masonic Home we take pleasure in quoting the following amendment to their Constitution covering this subject: SECTION 1. At the Annual Communication in November, 1923, there shall bo elected six Trustees who shall be permanent members of this Grand Lodge, and who, together with the Grand Master as chairman ex-officio, the Grand Secretary and the Grand Treasurer as members cx-officio, shall constitute a Board of nine Trustees to whom shall bo committed the care and investment ot all monies, securities, real and personal property of every description and the care and maintenance of all real estate which may be donated, bequeathed or devised to a fund to be known as the Masonic Home Fund of The Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Maryland. Two of said Trustees shall be elected for the term of throe years; two for the term of two years; two for the term of one year; and at each succeeding November Communication two shall be elected for the term of three years. Vacancies in the Board during the recess of the Grand Lodge shall be filled by the appointment of the Grand Master, such appointment to continue until the next Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge, when the same shall be filled for the unexpired term by election.
SECTION 4. The Board of Trustees shall have absolute control of all funds and properties placed in its care, subject, however, tO'instruction and regulation by this Grand Ledge. The Board shall endeavor, to the best of its ability and judgment, by wise investment and careful management to increase the funds received by it so that said funds may become sufficient for the erection and support of a Home for aged, destitute, disabled or dependent Masons of this jtu-isdiction, and those in similar condition having recognized claims on the Marsonic Fraternity of Maryland. SECTION 6. Such portion of said fund as is not expended for the piu'chase, erection, equipment or maintenance of said Home shall be retained in the care of the Board of Trustees, wisely invested according to its best judgment, and the income from such unexpended portion of the Masonic Home Fund, and such monies or properties as may from time to time be received by the Board of Trustees for addition to said fund, shall be used for the support of said Home, and for such additions and improvements thereto as this Grand Lodge may from time to time determine. Resolutions of sympathy were adopted for their Grand Master, M.-.W.-. Brother "WARBEN S. SEIPP, and their Grand Lecturer, R.'.W.-.
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—MARYLAND.
61
Brother CHARLES BURNS, who were prevented from attending this
Communication on account of illness. The Annual Communication was held in Baltimore, November 20,1923.
WARREN S . SEIPP, M.-. W.-. Grand Master.
The Grand Master in presenting his address, has the following to say in regard to the general conditions of the Craft in their jurisdiction, and the duties of the Grand Officers: The Fraternity has been moving in an uninterrupted way, making steady progress and overcoming all obstacles. The duties of the Grand Officers are ceaseless and unending. To recite in detail the activities of the Grand Master would be tiring and serve no useful purpose. Those of moment are already known to the Craft, and our every official act has been performed with deliberation, having a care for the welfare of the. Fraternity as the dominating thought. H e refers t o t h e passing a w a y of t h r e e of their P a s t G r a n d Officers, t w o P a s t J u n i o r G r a n d W a r d e n s , a n d one P a s t Senior G r a n d W a r d e n . Referring t o t h i s subject h e h a s t h e following t o s a y : Brethren, when one is permitted to climb the hill, almost to the summit, from whence one might get a glimpse of the Great Beyond, but is turned back without being permitted to view the Promised Land, it gives one a different viewpoint of life, and a more vivid understanding of the joys and sorrows, the •trials and tribulations, the petty jealousies and useless bickerings indulged in by those who are pleased to call themselves brethren and GOD'S children. I t shall be only when humanity shall come to a fuller understanding of the ways of men, and a closer relationship with our Creator, that the scales oi" doubt and darkness shall fall from our eyes and the wise purposes of the Supreme Architect be'displayed in all their splendor. Masonry was never intended for children nor fools, nor anyone mentally 'Incompetent, and I should like to impress upon the Craft the.necessity for care in the selection of material. You can't make a slk purse out of a sow's ear, neither can you make a gentleman out of a roughneck, and I believe that the standard cannot be too high nor the qualifications—moral, mental and spiritual —too exacting. During this year we have had and are now having an unusual number of trials. These used to be the exception, but now they seem to excite no. comment. More care at entrance would mean a less stringentexit. Quality should never be sacrificed for quantity, and if necessary cut your expenses, so that quantity will have no part in your program. . The promiscuous giving of Masonic emblems as souvenirs is to be deplored. I t cheapens the Fraternity and makes a laughing stock of our sacredness. When Masonry by various means and devices must entertain her membership in order to hold their attention and their attendance there is something radically wrong, and I should like to see our Alasters be what they should be, t. e., Masters and teachers, and labor to instruct and enlighten the brethren, who are hungering for Masonic knowledge. The harvest is rich, but the laborers are few. H e refers t o t h e M a s o n i c H o m e proposition, a n d concludes w i t h t h e following i n t e r e s t i n g w o r d s : And now, brethren, let not only the deliberations of this hour, but let the Fraternity during the three hundred and sixty-five days in the year have your best thought, earnest effort, and hearty co-operation. If love for the Fraternity Is in your hearts, you will help and not hinder. Let us put forth our efforts to make Masonry what we think it should be. . If you do not agree with certain policies, don't knock unless you can suggest an improvement.
62
CORRESPONDENCE—MASSACHUSETTS.
February,
Don't recommend a man for Masonry that you would not take into your own home and permit him to sit with yoiu- family a t table. Co-operation in the little things as well as in the big things should be our aim, and in every movement for the good of the Craft let each one do his bit, then will progress and success be assured. T h e R e p o r t on Correspoindence w a s a g a i n p r e s e n t e d b y B r o t h e r H E N R Y B K A N C H w i t h o u t c o m m e n t s . H e i n c l u d e s a review of our 1923 P r o c e e d i n g s . B r o t h e r B R A N C H ' S review is i n t e r e s t i n g t h r o u g h o u t a n d h e covers all t h e more i m p o r t a n t m a t t e r s which carne before t h e s e v e r a l G r a n d Lodges whose Proceedings h e reviewed. W A R R E N S . SEIPP, M.-.W.-. Grand Master, Baltimore. G E O R G E COOK, R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary, Baltimore.
H E N R Y B R A N C H , C o r r e s p o n d e n t , L e e s b u r g h , Virginia. N e x t A n n u a l , B a l t i m o r e , N o v e m b e r 18, 1924.
MASSACHUSETTS —1923. Lodges, 3 0 8 ; m e m b e r s , 115,585; n e t gain, 5,567. T h e first Q u a r t e r l y C o m m u n i c a t i o n w a s held a t B o s t o n , M a r c h 14, 1923. D U D L E Y H . F E R R E L L , M.-.W.-. G r a n d M a s t e r . T h i s G r a n d Lodge h a s t w o h u n d r e d n i n e t y - o n e lodges i n M a s s a c h u s e t t s , seven i n China, t h r e e in Chili a n d seven in t h e C a n a l Zone. W e t a k e pleasure i n quoting t h e following from t h e address of t h e Grand Master: "We rightly pride ourselves, as a Fraternity, upon the splendid record that we have written in the days that are past. Out of Masonry there has been carried, not by one, but by thousands, a spirit of brotherly concern and an anxiety for the common welfare that have played no insignificant part in stabilizing and arranging in orderly fashion the varied associations of men. Our remembrance of this achievement coupled with a partial understanding at least of life's needs of which we are ail aware, constitute a challenge to the Mason of the present which he cannot ignore without being false to the trust which the brethren of other days transmitted to him; without doing violence to the reality of Brotherhood in which he has formally professed his faith. T h e a t t e n t i o n of t h e G r a n d Lodge was called t o t h e activities of certain publications, some of t h e m bearing Masonic n a m e s , which claimed t o b e organs a n d exponents of M a s o n i c s e n t i m e n t a n d opinion, a n d after t h e subject h a d been duly considered t h e following resolutions were a d o p t e d : Resolved: That this Grand Lodge speaks only through its Most Worshipful Grand Master, through its official Proceedings and other instruments issuing, under the attestation of its Bight Worshipful Grand Secretary, and through brothers especially deputed by the Grand Lodge or the Grand Master to the extent of their authority; and further Resolved: That this Grand Lodge maintains no representative in Washington or elsewhere; that no person and no paper, magazine, newspaper, or other publication has the right officially to voice or to represent the principles,, opinions, or attitudes of this Grand Lodge except as hereinbefore provided.
1924-25.
CoBBESPONDENCE—MASSACHUSETTS.
63
On M a r c h 3 1 , 1923, a Special C o m m u n i c a t i o n w a s held for t h e p u r p o s e of c o n d u c t i n g t h e funeral of R.-. W.-. H I R A M R . D I L L E N B A C K ,
their Deputy Grand Master. A notable occasion d u r i n g t h e y e a r w a s a Special C o m m u n i c a t i o n of t h e G r a n d Lodge held a t T a u n t o n , for t h e purpose of celebrating t h e One H u n d r e d Twenty-fifth A n n i v e r s a r y of K i n g D a v i d Lodge. T h i s lodge w a s t h e thirty-first t o receive a c h a r t e r in t h i s jurisdiction. T h e next Q u a r t e r l y C o m m u n i c a t i o n w a s held J u n e 13, 1923. Prior t o t h e address of t h e G r a n d M a s t e r a special c o m m i t t e e was a p p o i n t e d for t h e purpose of i n t r o d u c i n g t o t h e G r a n d Lodge M.'. W.'. B r o t h e r W I L L I A M F . K U H N , P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r of Missouri a n d present General G r a n d High Priest of t h e G e n e r a l G r a n d C h a p t e r of R o y a l Arch M a s o n s of t h e U n i t e d S t a t e s . T h e G r a n d M a s t e r in his a d d r e s s called a t t e n t i o n t o t h e subject of erecting a new T e m p l e i n t h e city of B o s t o n . I t seems t h e y h a v e o u t g r o w n t h e present one a n d h e refers t o t h i s subject i n t h e h o p e t h a t i t will be k e p t in m i n d b y t h e b r e t h r e n , a n d t h a t i n due t i m e a new building will be erected. W e v e n t u r e a guess t h a t when t h e T e m p l e is finished i t will be one of t h e finest in t h i s c o u n t r y . W e talie pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following from his excellent address, as i t is a.subject which is now being worked o u t i n o u r own jurisdiction a n d we believe t h e t i m e h a s come w h e n t h e s e m a t t e r s in lodges should b e p u t o n a business basis a n d all s e n t i m e n t t h e r e b y eliminated: I have been seriously distressed by learning that in a good many cases the Secretaries and Treasurers of lodges keep lodge money in their personal bank "accounts. This is dangerous and improper in the highest degree. I do not say this because of any suspicion as to the entire honesty of our bretliren who hold these important positions, but the Intermingling of various funds in one account Is a source of almost inevitable confusion. Even with the utmost care in bookkeeping it is very difficult at any given time to tell just how much of a bank balance belongs to each of two or more accounts. Secretaries are not always expert bookkeepers nor are they chosen as such, and instances have come to my attention where lack of care and faultiness of methods have caused perfectly honest and upright Secretaries to appear to be short in their accounts. In case of death it has sometimes proved impossible to untangle the confusion, and the lodge has been obliged to accept an approximate estimate in settlement of accounts. The Worshipful Masters are responsible for the rule and government of their lodges. I urge upon them all to see to it that all lodge moneys are kept in separate bank accounts so that there may be no question that the lodge funds are safe and intact at any and all times. J u s t before t h e G r a n d L o d g e closed M.-. W.-. B r o t h e r K U H N w a s p r e s e n t e d with a ' ' H e n r y . Price M e d a l . " W e d o n o t k n o w w h a t i t is all a b o u t , b u t we a r e wondering w h e t h e r D r . K U H N proposes t o wear all of t h e s e decorations w h e n a t t e n d i n g a n n u a l functions in t h e f u t u r e ; if so i t will be necessary for h i m t o a p p o i n t a G r a n d Decoration B e a r e r . T h e next Q u a r t e r l y w a s held S e p t e m b e r 12, 1923. W e t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following from t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s a d d r e s s u n d e r t h e h e a d of " I n v e s t i g a t i n g C o m m i t t e e s : "
64
CORRESPONDENCE—MICHIGAN.
February,
Again, and this is more serious, some comraittees are in all essentials false to their duty by the careless fashion in which the investigation is made. When an investigating committee is appointed, it has but one duty, not to get the appUcant into the lodge, but to investigate the applicant's worthiness to enter. Committees should never be guilty of making a favorable report upon the basis of an inability to discover anything against the applicant. A report should be favorable only when b y the widest search of circumstances In which the applicant is involved, by the frankest questioning of those with whom ho is associated, something is found in both character and actions that urges his acceptance, that promises an addition of definite value to the personal resources of the lodge.
We note that a Special Communication of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts was opened in the city of Alexandria, Virginia, at the time of the laying of the corner-stone of the Washington memorial. We are a little old fashioned in these particulars, and just wonder what it is all about, and under what regulation, ancient or modern, a Grand Lodge of one jurisdiction can open up in the territory and the exclusive jurisdiction of another Grand Lodge? Possibly this is one of the socalled progressive ideas of the day. DUDLEY HAYES FBRRELL, M . - . W . ' . G r a n d Master, Lynn. FREDERICK W . HAMILTON, R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary, Masonic
Temple, Boston.
MICHIGAN —1924. Lodges, 481; members, 138,974; net gain, 4,903. Flint, M a y / 2 7 , 1924.
Master.
CHARLES A. DURAND,. M.-.W.-. Grand
^> .s5.
Brother WILLIAM H . GALLAGHER, our Grand Representative, was
present. \ - This volume opens with an excellent likeness of M.'.W.'. Brother B E N J. HENDERSON, the present Grand Master. Following this, similar to our own practice, we find a group likeness of all the other Grand Officers. This year's volume might be termed " a whale," as it contains 1260 pages, 718 of which are consumed in the report of the Committee on Correspondence. Immediately preceding the Grand Master's address we find an excellent half-tone of their retiring Grand Master, M.-.W.-. Brother CHARLES A. DURAND.
This address is one of the most complete which has come under the scrutiny of the writer, and it is almost the last volume to be reviewed for this year's report. We have but one regret in reviewing this excellent report, and t h a t is t h a t we cannot quote more from the various topics covered; however, we feel justified in being most liberal in excerpting a t least a goodly portion of the matter which we believe will be of much interest to our readers.
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—MICHIGAN.
65
T h e following from t h e preface t o his address is a sort of s e m i apology for n o t accomplishing more during his a d m i n i s t r a t i o n , b u t we feel t h a t his work has been t h o r o u g h l y satisfactory t o t h e b r e t h r e n of Michigan: Grand Masters start out with high ideals and a burning ambition to do great constructive things for Masonry, but at the end of the year so much has been left undone that the few things accomplished seem very insignificant in thei general scheme of Masonic affairs. "We have grown from a liandful to about 140,000, and, within the past ten years, have nearly doubled our membership so that now it takes practically the Grand Master's entire time; a severe burden to impose upon one man, who perhaps has other duties to perform, essential to the welfare of himself and family. F o u r t e e n pages are required t o record t h e dedication of M a s o n i c T e m p l e s during t h e year. H e issued six L e t t e r s of Dispensation for t h e e s t a b l i s h m e n t of new lodges. One year ago an order was issued b y t h e G r a n d M a s t e r a n d a p p r o v e d b y t h e G r a n d Lodge, prohibiting c e r t a i n practices of a g a m b l i n g n a t u r e , such as holding fairs, circuses, b a z a a r s a n d t h e raffling of a u t o m o b i l e s a n d other c o m m o d i t i e s . I t seems t h a t t h i s order w a s ignored b y an organization coniposed entirely of M a s t e r M a s o n s a n d t h e y advertised w h a t was t e r m e d " T h e A w a k e n i n g , " which p r o v i d e d for t h e giving a w a y of a u t o m o b i l e s a n d other c o m m o d i t i e s b y m e a n s of a l o t t e r y . T h e G r a n d M a s t e r i m m e d i a t e l y issued his E d i c t , forbidding a n y t h i n g of t h i s k i n d ; however, in s p i t e of this E d i c t t h e practice was c o n t i n u e d . I n due t i m e t h e M a s t e r of one of t h e i r lodges ordered charges preferred a g a i n s t one of t h e m e m b e r s of his lodge, who was a c t i v e in t h e p r o m o t i o n of t h e p l a n , a n d after a trial, he was a c q u i t t e d . T h e G r a n d M a s t e r t h e n o r d e r e d a n a p p e a l t a k e n t o t h e G r a n d Lodge, which r e s u l t e d in t h e action of t h e lodge being set aside a n d t h e b r o t h e r r e p r i m a n d e d . T h e organization in question which paid no a t t e n t i o n t o either t h e order or E d i c t of t h e G r a n d M a s t e r , is k n o w n as t h e G r o t t o , a n d is largely a d v e r t i s e d t h r o u g h t h e press as a Masonic b o d y . W e m u s t , however, be consistent, a n d should n o t , therefore, criticise t h i s one a n y m o r e t h a n t h e o t h e r twenty-five or more similar societies, all of which a r e classified as Masonic, a n d m a n y of t h e m are e n d o r s e d a n d s p o n s o r e d b y s o m e G r a n d Lodges. As a conclusion t o t h e subject a b o v e referred t o t h e M a s t e r h a d t h e following t o s a y :
Grand
Masonry is too big an institution to be obliged to run a gambling house or give questionable entertainment for the purpose of raising money to build Temples which are dedicated to certain holy things, or to furnish the same, and, as this also was the sentiment of Grand Lodge, I have tried to eliminate these things from Masonic activities, and have endeavored to drive home to Master Masons the idea that Masonry stands for something worth while, and should be an influence for good in the community, and that certainly it does not countenance law breaking in any form. This institution of ours was never Intended to be popular in its present day sense, and, above all things else, it never was intended to be a play-ground for '' jazz'' and the wearing of red pants.
66
COBBESPONDENCE—MICHIGAN.
February,
There are too many side Issues which are bringing discredit upon the Craft, which are leading our membership astray tlirough the exploitation of frivolous and undignified schemes, too many "back to n a t u r e " parties, too many gambling devices in club houses and in connection with so-called entertainment, too much disorder and confusion, and I believe the time has come for Grand Lodge to take some decided action to curb the activities of these organizations which demand Masonic afBUation in order to acquire membership therein, and which force Masonry to become an unwilUng host. Every tree is to bear fruit, and every institution must be productive. If the underlying principles of these organizations are not such as to give them life and maintain a respectable standing in the community without Masonic connection, then surely there is no good excuse for their existence. The devising of new titles and jewels for men to wear, and the desire to don some distinctive or outlandish garb, furnish no just argument to compel Masonry to stand the criticism for tlieir inexcusable activities. Masons who live in the memory of their fellows, are those who serve their fellows. The din and the noise and the display, and those who cause it, are forgotten when they are gone. What we do or fail to do to promote the welfare of those about us, is tlie test of service, not the regretable parade and blare of trumpets and ribald songs which cause decent, clean-minded men to hang their heads In shame.
The Grand Master states that several times during the year it became necessary for him to issue orders against the use of the lodge room by organizations which are not Masonic, and we take pleasure in quoting t h e following under this head: If all the organizations which require some sort of Masonic relationship for membership therein should organize bodies within this jurisdiction, and should insist that because of the Masonic connection, they ought to be allowed to meet in lodge rooms, when would the lodges find a night open for the conduct of regular Masonic business? There are altogether too many organizations attempting to make Masonry an unwilling host and bear their burdens, and which detract from the purpose of our institution.
Referring to tardiness in conducting the affairs of the lodges, he has the following to say, which will apply to so'me of our own lodges: Great disorder and loss of time are due to delay in opening lodge promptly. I have seen, and you, the dire effects of procrastination. Sometimes it is the Master, often the Secretary, perchance the Wardens, who delay the game. Whoever the important officer is who delays the opening of lodge, he is working against the best interests of the lodge. Members, perhaps older ones, who work all day and like to go to bed early, are cheated out of the privilege of staying to the end of the session. There is no reason why lodges should not close early. The Worshipful Master is an important factor in the life of a lodge. He must not only be prompt; he needs to be a man of decision, and if he will see to it that the lodge is opened in accordance with the by-laws, the result manifested by increased interest and attendance will be surprising. Keep the lodge rooms clean and sweet. In many places we have found the most shameful neglect in tills respect. The custom, which obtains in a great majority of t h e lodges, of leaving a candidate alone or practically so, with the Worshipful Master to hear and receive the lecture, is worthy of notice and censure. I have already spoken of the adoption of methods which will do away
1924-25..
CoBBESPONDENCE—MICHIGAN.
67
with the apparent necessity for doing this; open your lodge promptly; let the worli move with celerity; let there be no long, distressful pauses, have a competent man in charge of the work. I t is depressing to a Worsliipful Master to talk to the candidate alone, and it certainly gives the candidate a false impression. Frequently it has been urged that in the lodge rooms should be discussed all questions of state and religion, that it should be a forum where the welfare of the government of these United States, the governmental policy of t h e State, and all questions relating to civil and religious well being should be threshed out. Such a practice would eventually disrupt this ancient and honorable institution. I hope the time will never come when religious bigotry, political prejudice and racial hatreds will be injected into our lodges. When that time comes. Masonry Is doomed. Masonry's duty and privilege is to prepare the brothers how to act as citizens in all emergencies. Safe and sane Masons do not think it competent for constituent or Grand Lodges to approve by vote any governmental policy. Training the individual Mason for citizenship Is the duty and privilege of Masonry.
Referring to our beautiful system of niorality veiled in allegories, we cannot refrain from quoting the following, knowing that it will be appreciated by the brethren who read this portion of the report: . Many Masons seem to think that Masonry is a beautiful system of gymnastics, signs, steps, grips and more grips, steps and signs, the acquisition of high sounding titles and the eternal grind of conferring of degrees. If that were all, our Institution could not have lived through all these many years nor attracted the brightest minds of this and other times. Let us forget some of these minor details and get back to fundamentals and a knowledge of what Masonry really Is. The dignity of Freemasonry has in some quarters been sadly under-rated. This unintentional submergence of the dignity of the institution of Masonry and Its splendid ritual has resulted in fostering in the mJnds of some a lack of appreciation of the purpose of the Order.. Brothers In a spirit of fun and banter often destroy the possibility of the best impression being made upon the candidate, who. constantly looking for surprises, fails to catch the solemn lesson Masonry would teach. Would It not add to our effectiveness if there was a return to the old policy of reticence, circumspection and absolute silence in regard to Masonic affairs? Too much of what has transpired under cover of the lodge is talked about'openly on the streets, and that by Masons who should know better. Let us return for a time to the kindly helpfulness and brotherly love of other days, being on our guard that we do no harm or injury to our feUowman. Let us Instill a little of old-time, hcnest-to-goodness Masonry in t h e minds of om- brothers and make them believe in it.
• We m-ust pass on to other portions of the Proceedings, but we cannot do so without quoting the following as a part of the conclusion to his address: Masonry does not exist solely for conferring degrees, for the pleasure and entertainment of Its members, nor for the collecting of a few dollars to send a bunch of flowers to some sick brother and to appoint committees to visit others in distress, not to buy a shroud and a coflfln and resting place and give worthy burial to some less fortunate one. I t does not exist only for framing resolutions of condolence, spreading them on the minutes and sending copies of same to the bereaved and the newspapers; It does not exist only for meeting in great assemblies, maldng fine presentations, nor for engaging doctors and nurses, and to buy and build stately homes for sickness, old age and dependency. I t means
68
CORRESPONDENCE—MICHIGAN.
February.
all these, but it has a-larger mission; beneath and beyond It all Is the deep, permanent, silent but noTer absent passion to better the brotherhood, not alone to better their circumstances and environment, but to better them and make them richer, stronger and more influential personalities. T h e G r a n d Secretary, in his excellent r e p o r t , s u b m i t s a card form of life m e m b e r s h i p w i t h t h e G r a n d L o d g e certificate t o be executed on t h e b a c k thereof. T h e form w a s a p p r o v e d b y t h e i r C o m m i t t e e on J u r i s p r u d e n c e . As t h i s is p r a c t i c a l l y t h e exact form used in our o w n j u r i s d i c t i o n on our official r e c e i p t s for dues, except in place of t h e certificate of t h e lodge ours c o n t a i n s t h e a m o u n t of dues paid b y t h e B r o t h e r a n d to w h a t d a t e , all of w h i c h is u n d e r t h e seal of t h e lodge. T h e reverse side of t h e M i c h i g a n c a r d is t h e s a m e as t h e back side of o u r official receipt for d u e s . N o w we rise t o ask w h a t our good b r e t h r e n of N e w H a m p s h i r e will d o w i t h a M i c h i g a n b r o t h e r w h e n he produces one of these life m e m b e r s h i p cards? T h e r e is b u t one a n s w e r , a n d t h a t is t h e y m u s t refuse h i m admission as a visitor, if t h e y a r e t o be consistent a n d t r e a t all sister j u r i s d i c t i o n s alike. F u r t h e r c o m m e n t s dealing with N e w H a m p s h i r e will be found as a p a r t of t h e i n t r o d u c t i o n t o this r e p o r t . T h e C o m m i t t e e on J u r i s p r u d e n c e in r e p o r t i n g on a proposition which c o n t e m p l a t e d charging v i s i t i n g m e m b e r s , h a d t h e following to say: It is entirely illegal for a constituent lodge to provide in its by-laws for visiting members and charge therefor. The visiting of a lodge is a right which every member of the Fraternity should be permitted to enjoy. It is a right as old as Masonry itself, subject only to objection by a member of the lodge in which the visit is being made. We therefore recommend that the Most Worshipful Grand Master require the elimination of all provisions for visiting membershiijs from the by-laws of any constituent lodge. W e also v e n t u r e t o ask w h a t our N e w H a m p s h i r e b r e t h r e n will t h i n k of t h i s i m p o r t a n t p a r t of t h e r e p o r t of t h e C o m m i t t e e ? T h e R e p o r t on C o r r e s p o n d e n c e , being t h e first one p r e p a r e d b y B r o t h e r W I L L I A M H . G A L L A G H E R , G r a n d C h a p l a i n , w h o m we a r e pleased t o s a y is t h e G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e of K a n s a s near t h e G r a n d L o d g e of Michigan, is excellent t h r o u g h o u t a n d we are u n d e r obligat i o n s for a n excellent review of o u r 1924 P r o c e e d i n g s . H i s " E x o r d i u m " is a sort of " I f I s h o u l d chance t o fall below D e m o s t h e n e s a n d C i c e r o , " y e t it is brief, q u i t e i n t e r e s t i n g a n d "we t a k e pleasure in quoting t h e following p a r a g r a p h s : I have no doubt about my ability to talce care of the literary side of the work, although the R..W.-.Grand Secretary Lou B. WINSOB is a hard man to follow. Through the twenty years he has done tliis work, he has won many golden opinions, and his face is a familiar one at the Round Table, There will be regrets, and I expect to hear it said, or see it written: " t h a t is not the way WINSOB used to do." But life has done two tilings for me: Cured me of supersensitiveness and, at the same time, hardened my heart. O n e y e a r ago t h e writer expressed t h e h o p e t h a t B r o t h e r G A L L A G H B K would w r i t e as clean a n d i n t e r e s t i n g a r e p o r t as B r o t h e r
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—MINNESOTA.
69
WiNSOR. Our hopes were n o t f r u s t r a t e d , as t h i s r e p o r t is conclusive t h a t B r o t h e r G A L L A G H E R as a novice is doing q u i t e well a n d we a r e willing t o sign his p e t i t i o n for admission i n t o t h e organization k n o w n as " T h e M u t u a l s , " or in o t h e r w o r d s , t h e writers of t h e R o u n d Table. While t h e writer as a general rule is opposed t o t h e " s c r a t c h m y b a c k p r o p o s i t i o n , " y e t once in a while a k i n d t h o u g h t , well e x pressed, is w o r t h y of r e p r o d u c t i o n , a n d we therefore t a k e t h e l i b e r t y of q u o t i n g t h e following words of B r o t h e r G A L L A G H E R in c o m m e n t i n g on t h e r e m a r k s of o u r G r a n d M a s t e r one y e a r ago a t t h e conclusion of his address, h a v i n g reference t o t h e services of t h e writer of t h i s r e p o r t , w h o also h a p p e n s t o b e G r a n d S e c r e t a r y : The Grand Master's last word is a tribute of merited praise to the R.'. W .•. Grand Secretary. There is In this tribute neither the beauty nor fragrance of flowers, no whispering zephyrs, no glittering stars, just a plain, honest-togoodness setting forth of the helpfulness of an able Grand Secretary, in whom reside the double attributes of manhood and Masonry. "Some sweet day," we may meet. B E N J. H E N D E R S O N , M . - . W . - . Grand Master, B a y City. L o u B . WiNSOR, R.-. W . \ G r a n d S e c r e t a r y , G r a n d R a p i d s . W I L L I A M H . G A L L A G H E R , C o r r e s p o n d e n t , Allegan.
N e x t A n n u a l , G r a n d R a p i d s , M a y 26, 1925.
MINNESOTA —1924. Lodges, 2 9 2 ; m e m b e r s , 55,909; n e t gain, 1,968. S t . P a u l , J a n u a r y 16, 1924.
JAMES M . MCCONNELL, M.-. W.-.
Grand Master. I n t h e list of G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e s present a t this C o m m u n i cation we n o t e t h a t K a n s a s w a s missing. L a s t year we called a t t e n t i o n t o t h e absence of t h i s distinguished b r o t h e r for a t least t h r e e t i m e s in succession, a n d n o w we a d d one more, m a k i n g i t t h e f o u r t h . T h e G r a n d M a s t e r , i n p r e s e n t i n g his address, h a s t h e following t o s a y in regard t o m a t t e r s in t h e i r own j u r i s d i c t i o n : Broadly speaking. Masonry throughout our Grand Jurisdiction is on a sound basis and prospereus. I have been impressed wherever information has reached me with the conscientious effort of our lodges to accept only good timber, realizing that out of poor timber no sound edifice can be erected. There is good reason to believe that of our great social institutions. Masonry at least, is back to normal. U n d e r t h e s u b j e c t of " M a s o n i c Service Association," we t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following: That the Masonic Service Association has not yet attained the stride la Minnesota that it has in certain other Grand Jurisdictions needs no word of mine to conflrm. Nor do I know that it ever will. The purpose of the Masonic
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CORRESPONDENCE—MINNESOTA.
February,
Service Association is, mainly and broadly speaking, educational. This purpose It seeks to accomplish along two closely related lines of effort. I t prepares and sends out bulletins to the lodges. These have been received in the lodges throughout the State and the brethren are In a position to Itnow the extent of their value. I t prepares and sends out for use In connection with lectures, or otherwise, certain educational films, two of which, together with at least one of t h e lectures, have been a t different times presented to this Grand Body. These lectures and films have been used extensively and with enthusiasm In some jurisdictions. Whether they have actual value or would be well received In Minnesota is In my rnlnd frankly a question. Our educational system and educational policy is such .that not much. If any, need exists for the kind of stimulus offered In tliese films. Again, Minnesota Masonry is and I trust always win be conservative with a disposition to adhere to a somewhat strict construction of the Ancient Landmarks and traditions. The dangerous tendency manifested In some localities toward carrying Masonry as an organization into public affairs and toward undue publicity has, I trust, small holding in our Grand Jurisdiction. He rules on the question of physical qualification in the case of one whose hearing is so impaired t h a t it is necessary to talk into his ear in a loud voice t o be heard, t h a t he can see no reason why he is not eligible if he is provided with an artificial device. In support of his opinion he compares it with the use of glasses where the eye sight is impaired; therefore, as the old saying goes, " w h a t is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander." He was obliged t o answer questions subrhitted by several of their lodges in regard to sponsoring and supporting the DeMolay. In all these cases his answer was in the negative. We notice their jurisdiction is not exempt from the carpetibagging lecturer as t h e Grand Master was obliged to address a com-munication to their lodges, advising them not to employ any of these individuals unless they were first authorized by the Grand Lodge or •Grand Master. Under the subject of " D e M o l a y , " we quote the following: The Grand Lodge in this Instance, however. Is confronted by a condition and not a theory. The Order of DeMolay has been established and the sons • of Masons and their friends have joined it by the hundreds and by the thousands, working as they undoubtedly believe, regardless of what they may have been told, in the outer courts of the Temple of Masonry. The Grand Lodge, in order to be consistent, must either declare this organization to be a legitimate undertaking of Masonry and one which it sponsors, or It must refuse to do so. Within the year I was asked to give consent to one of our subordinate lodges to sponsor a proposed chapter of t h e DeMolay. This I refused to do on the ground that the Grand Master had n o authority to give such consent until such time as the <5rand Lodge might have placed its stamp of approval on the organization. The above was referred to their Committee on Jurisprudence who recommended t h a t the action of the Grand Master be approved. Much has been said along the line of what is termed " Masonic E d u c a t i o n " which naturally brings up the question of public schools, and likewise embraces a bill which has been before Congress several times, known as the Towner-Sterling bill, which has been endorsed a n d is being fostered b y the Scottish Rite of the Southern Jurisdiction.
1924-25.
CoBBESPONDENCE—MINNESOTA.
71
The Grand Master, under the head of "Education," covers this subject in such a manner that we believe it will be of interest to our readers and we therefore quote it in its entirety, as well as the report of the Committee on Jurisprudence of the Southern Jurisdiction of the Scottish Rite, the latter proposition giving the views of the Supreme Council of the Northern Jurisdiction as compared with those of the Southern: Masonry teaches enlightenment and thus inculcates as one of its cardinal principles the encom'agement of public education. Masons everywhere recognize the public schools as the great training ground of democracy and give them unqualified support. In so doing they stand before the world as good citizens practicing out of the Lodge the sound doctrines which are taught in it. In their commendable enthusiasm Masons will do well to remember that they can claim no monoply in devotion to the public schools. Their non-Masonic neighbors, regardless of creed, are also in large part enthusiastic and ready in their support. Masons will err wofully should they seem at any time to set themselves up as the self constituted guardians of a great public institution which belongs to all the people and in which all have equal rights. Within the year I had presented to me for my consideration and opinion a proposed educational plan offered by an esteemed representative of one of the subsidiary bodies of Masonry. The plan, as I understood it, contemplated the formation in each community of a committee from the membership of the Masonic body in question. Each committee would work under the direction of a central authority. The business of this committee in each locality would be to interest itself in the affairs of the public schools, to see that they were properly directed and especially to see that the right kind of men' and women were chosen as members of school boards and as superintendents and teachers. I t was the intention that these local committees should work in co-operation with all other public spirited citizens in the community to the same end. My reply was by letter and is here presented in order that this Grand Body, whose duty it is to determine Masonic policy for this Grand Jurisdiction may have an opportunity to consider the question involved and express its conclusions. "With the purpose which you se'ek to accomplish I am in fullest accord. All good citizens, interested in public welfare, should work together and concern themselves in just these things. Of the wisdom and practicability of the plan which you propose as one to be projected by any society, such as the Masonic body, I have grave doubt. The public schools belong to all the people and all the people are properly extremely jealous of their right and interest in what they shall teach and In what way and by whom they shall be controlled and directed. The people are not willing that any sect or group should take to Itself their control or direction, no matter what the purpose might be. Moreover, they are extemely suspicious of the purpose which any such society or sect might have in attempting to do so. " B y no means a majority of all the people are Masons or have Masonic sympathies, nor do they know or trust the high purposes which Alasons may have in what they seek to accomplish, nor, it must be admitted, are all Masons who might be concerned in such an undertaking, by any means wise and discreet or free from bigotry and prejudice. The result, as 1 see it, would be presently to array together in communities, Catholics, Lutherans, and other non-Masons, not only against the proposals offered, but against Masons as a group. In other words, communities now working together in comparative harmony in the support of public education, would become divided to the disaster of that harmony necessary for educational progress and to the inevitable Injury of Masonry itself. I t is needles^ for me to say that it should be the aim of all true friends of public education to imite communities in its support and
72
CORRESPONDENCE—MINNESOTA.
February.
to avoid any act which might divide them. I t Is not possible to believe, however highly conceived such a plan might be, that many of those who would be called on to participate would not consciously, or otherwise work toward Masonic domination and against those whom they might regard as the opponents of Masonry. Such action involving school administration would be undemocratic, un-American, and most reprehensible. Furthermore, such an organization once formed might easily be used to serve selfish purposes. "Again, while we may say that the direction of public education is and should be non-political, the fact Is that any public business is in a broad sense political, since it deals directly with the aflairs of the body politic. The Ancient Landmarks of Masonry, the strict observance of which Is necessary. If Masonry is to bo perpetuated as an institution, strictly forbids Its participation In jjolitical affairs. Such a plan as you contemijlatc, worked out by such an organization as you propose, would, to my mind, be in direct violation of this ancient principle of Freemasonry, and should be so interpreted by Masonic authority. The public will not tolerate any Masonic or other organization as the self-constituted guardian of its public schools, nor can a Masonic body, without violating the Ancient Landmarks, enter on such an undertaking." My deep interest in the welfare and progress of the public schools, as well as my concern for Masonry loads me to say to all sects and societies, "Hands off the public schools." Saying tliis to others, we must accept it ourselves. Protestants and Catholics, .lows and Gentiles, Masons and profane, owe personal allegiance Individually to the government under which they live and of which they are a part and ought to act in all public affairs as Intelligent and conscientious citizens and never as members of any sect or society. Again it Is my opinion that no Masonic body can enter itself, either as a proponent or supporter of any public question, e.xcept in conflict with ancient Masonic tradition. In this opinion I am supported by resolutions of the Supreme Council of the Northern Jurisdiction of Scottish Rite Masons. These resolutions cover the ground so completely that I am led to include them in full as presented to the Supreme Council by its Committee on .lurisprudence and unanimously adopted. " T h e Committee on .Jurisprudence, to whom was referred that portion of the Allocution of the M .".P .•.Sovereign Grand Commander requesting that the Supreme Council, as an organization, would use Its influence to secure the passage or defeat of speciflc measures pending before legislative bodies, and to clearly define its position upon that question before the world, beg leave to submit the following report: " W e have given the mattor careful consideration and are of the opinion that, in view of the many efforts now being made to Involve Free Masonry in controversies both of a religious and a political nature, the time has come when this Supreme Coimcil should declare its iiosition as a guide to its representatives and the subordinate bodies of its jurisdiction. Wo therefore recommend the adoption of the following statement of principles; "This Supreme Council affirms its unswerving loyalty to the fundamental purpose and principles of Masonry. " I t understands that purpose to be the Improvement and strengthening of the character of the individual man, and through the individual to the community. " I t believes that this purpose i's to be attained by laying a broad basis of principle upon which men of every race, country, sect and opinion may imite, rather than by setting up a restricted platform upon which only those of certain races, certain views and opinions can assemble. "Believing that good and wise men can be trusted to act well and wisely. It considers it the duty of the Fraternity to impress upon its members the principles of personal righteousness and personal responsibihty, to enlighten them as to those things which make for human welfare, and to inspire them with that feeling of charity or well-wishing toward all mankind wliich will move them to translate principle and conviction into action.
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—MISSISSIPPI.
73
" To that end, it teaches and stands for truth and justice, liberty and enlightenment, fraternity and philanthropy. " I t believes in principles rather than programs. Principles unite men; programs divide them. Men may agree on principles without agreeing upon their particular application to some specific problem. ''Nothing can be more important than the preservation of the essential and permanent sympathy and unity of purpose of those who are unable t o agree as to the wisest action under special and temporary conditions. " I t is the essence of Free Masonry that this unity be preserved. "Believing this, this Supreme Council affirms its continued adherence t o that ancient and approved rule of Free Masonry in America which forbids the discussion within tyled doors of creeds, politics, or other topics apt to excite personal animosities. " I t further affirms its conviction that it is not only contrary to the fundamental principles of Free Masonry, but exceedingly dangerous to the unity, strength, usefulness, and welfare of the Order for Masonic Bodies in their official capacity to take formal action or attempt to exercise pressure or influence, for or against any particular legislative project or proposal, or in any way to attempt to influence magistrates and officials, whether or not members of the Fraternity, in the performance of their official duties." B r o t h e r JOHN F I S H E L again s u b m i t s a n excellent r e p o r t a s G r a n d S e c r e t a r y ; however, we c a n n o t refrain from calling a t t e n t i o n t o w h a t seems t o be a glaring e r r o r in t h e m e m b e r s h i p . L a s t y e a r h e r e p o r t e d t h e m e m b e r s h i p t o b e 53,941, a n d t h i s year 55,909, showing a n e t gain of 1,968, while t h i s year he indicates t h a t t h e m e m b e r s h i p l a s t year w a s 54,635. Therefore his s u m m a r y t h i s t i m e shows t h e n e t gain t o b e 1,274, while t a k i n g his figures as s h o w n in l a s t y e a r ' s r e p o r t t h e n e t gain s h o u l d b e 1,968. T h e r e a r e m a n y other interesting subjects in t h e P r o c e e d i n g s , b u t we m u s t allow space for others. B r o t h e r E D M U N D A. M O N T G O M E R Y s u b m i t t e d t h e R e p o r t on C o r r e s p o n d e n c e a n d we a r e u n d e r obligations for a splendid review of o u r 1923 P r o c e e d i n g s . JAMES D . MARKHAM, M.-.W.-. Grand Master, Rush City. J O H N F I S H E L , R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, St. Paul. E D M U N D A. MONTGOMERY, Correspondent, Minneapolis.
N e x t A n n u a l , S t . P a u l , J a n u a r y 2 1 , 1925.
MISSISSIPPI-1924. Lodges, 3 8 1 ; m e m b e r s , 33,308; n e t gain, 2,162. Vicksburg, F e b r u a r y 19, 1924. M A R S H H A I N E R , M . - . W . ' . G r a n d Master. Before t h e formal opening of t h e G r a n d Lodge a d d r e s s e s of welcome were e x t e n d e d b y several p r o m i n e n t m e m b e r s , t o which i n t e r e s t i n g responses were m a d e , a n d we n o t e t h a t o u r Mississippi b r e t h r e n a r e n o t u n m i n d f u l of t h e fairer sex a s t h e G r a n d M a t r o n of t h e E a s t e r n S t a r w a s one w h o w a s p e r m i t t e d t o e x t e n d t h e w a r m h a n d of welcome t o t h e representatives.
74
CORRESPONDENCE—MISSISSIPPI.
February,
Brother JOHN R . TALLY had the distinguished privilege of re-
sponding to the lady's address. Brother ROBERT W . HINTON, J R . , was on hand at this Communi-
cation to look after the interests of Kansas. From the preface to the Grand Master's address we take pleasure in quoting the following: Our s t a t e has much to be thankful for; no pestilence nor disaster has visited us during the past year, and the extensive building program which Is so apparent in many sections, is evidence that we have reached what might be termed the "accumulative period." I am therefore Inclined to believe what has been called a great period of unrest, is rapidly resolving itself into an era of Industry and contentment. Confidence is overcoming distrust, and the spirit of Fraternity is growing stronger each day. Humanity is defining the Supreme Master's Commandments more intelligently, realizing that to be idle during any of the six days of the week must, in a large measure, be as unholy as to work on the seventh. Let us therefore reconsecrate ourselves by greater diligence in t h e discharge of our duty to GOD and man, thereby assuring ourselves of a glorious future for our Fraternity and the betterment of mankind. •
The Grand Master is heartily in accord with the endowment fund of their Masonic Home and recommends that whatever amount they have on hand in their general fund in excess of $10,000.00 be placed in the endowment fund. The following few words under the head of "Lodge Dues," is worthy of being quoted: I have been impressed with the fact that a number of our local lodges are assessing their membership dues only equal in amount to the Grand Lodge dues. This does not impress me as a very good business policy; for unless the lodge has some other source of revenue, it certainly will not be in a position to render relief to the brethren should they unfortunately need their help.
Many of our own lodges require only a sufficient amount of dues to meet the over-head expenses, and the Grand Lodge dues, while in some other cases no dues at all are required as the lodge owns the building in which they meet and the revenue derived from the rent of the first or second floors meets all the annual expenses. The Proceedings are embellished with excellent pictures of their Masonic Homes a t Meridian and Columbus. Our Mississippi brethren are to be commended in the wonderful interest they take in benevolence and the care of those who are no longer able to care for themselves. Under the subject of "Physical Qualifications," the Committee on Law states that the Grand Lodge has gone a long way toward wiping out physical disqualifications, but it has not wiped them out entirely. They conclude their reference to this subject in the following few words, which we take it to be their opinion: The Master and the lodge must be the judge of the physical qualiflcations of t h e petitioner as above provided by the Grand Lodge.
1924-25.
CoBBESPONDENCE—MISSOURI.
75
Referring to the subject of "Reading the Constitution, By-Laws and Regulations in their Lodges," the committee has the following to offer: Perhaps we are too busy Initiating candidates and devote too little time to the study of Masonry, its laws, its customs, its history and its principles. Seriously, we want to recommend to the Master and Wardens of every lodge in Mississippi that some "well-Informed brother" should address the lodge a t intervals on the subject of Masonic law; we also would suggest t h a t every initiate be advised to read the Constitution and By-Laws, rules and regulations, statutes and Landmarks; we are sm-e that such reading would make him a better Mason, and certainly a better-informed Mason. Ultimately, if this were observed, the Grand Lodge might dispense with Its Committee on Masonic Law and Jurisprudence, for most of the questions that come to the committee could easily be answered by reference to the proper section of the law.
On behalf of Kansas the writer is willing to plead guilty so far as a great many of our own lodges are concerned. We note in their list of Grand Representatives near our Grand Lodge they carry the name of Brother JOHN C . ELY, who was succeeded several years ago by Brother EDWIN C . EAGLES, of Thayer, Kansas. In the Report on Correspondence, prepared by M.\W.".Brother HENRY C . YAWN, is included a review of our 1923 Proceedings.
Re-
ferring to the recommendation of our Grand Master in regard t o t h e DeMolay he states he was unable to find where the recommendation was adopted. I n order to supply Brother YAWN with the needed " l i g h t " we refer him to page 422, Proceedings of 1923, Decision 110. GEORGE D . RILEY, M.-. W . ' . (3rand Master, Jackson. EDWARD L . FAUCETTE, R . \ W . ' . Grand Secretary, Meridian. HENRY C . YAWN, P.-. G.'. M . ' . , Correspondent, Lumberton.
Next Annual, Jackson, February 24, 1925.
MISSOURI —1923. Lodges, 659; members, 107,041; net gain, 2,957. Kansas City, October 16, 1923.
B E R T S . L E E , M . - . W . - . Grand
Master. We note they were honored with the presence of several distinguished members, among them t h e M . \ 111.'. Grand Master of the Grand Council, the R.". E.'. Grand Commander of the Grand Commandery, and R.'.W.'. Brother JOHN PICKARD, Grand Senior Deacon of the Grand Lodge, who declined an introduction, preferring to stand " o n his laurels" as that officer of the Grand Lodge. We rise to ask the question who is Brother JOHN PICKARD other than Grand Senior Deacon of the Grand Lodge?
76
CORRESPONDENCE—MISSOURI.
February,
T h e G r a n d M a s t e r in s u b m i t t i n g h i s a d d r e s s t a k e s a v e r y pessimistic v i e w of M a s o n i c affairs in their j u r i s d i c t i o n as i n d i c a t e d in t h e following w o r d s : Peace and harmony prevail throughout the jurisdiction. "While the net Increase, about three thousand, has not been so large as for the last two years, I find the lodges doing good work, paying attention to the ritual and precepts of our Fraternity. Never in the history of Freemasonry was there greater need than at the present for the exercise of brotherly love, founded upon the fatherhood of Goo and the fundamentals of our forefathers. The nation Is calling for leaders in all activities of life, and Freemasons with the centuries of tradition and example behind them are expected to do thier part. H e r e p o r t s the h o l d i n g of a conference of t h e i r D i s t r i c t D e p u t y G r a n d M a s t e r s as p r o v i d e d in t h e i r B y - L a v / s . T h e forenoori of t h e first d a y w a s d e v o t e d to considering a p r o p o s i t i o n for increasing int e r e s t in r a i s i n g Missouri's q u o t a for t h e erection of t h e George W a s h i n g t o n M e m o r i a l ,at Alexandria. A t n o o n t h e y a d j o u r n e d for l u n c h , after which t h e afternoon was s p e n t in considering t h e work of t h e E d u c a t i o n a l C o m m i t t e e . In t h e e v e n i n g a m a s s m e e t i n g was held, which w a s a d d r e s s e d b y t h e G r a n d M a s t e r a n d o t h e r s . As a comparison w i t h our own jurisdiction, a n d a m a t t e r of i n f o r m a t i o n only, t h e w r i t e r will say we hold a m e e t i n g of our D i s t r i c t D e p u t y G r a n d M a s t e r s , b e g i n n i n g a t 4:00 o'clock on t h e a f t e r n o o n of t h e first d a y of t h e A n n u a l C o m m u n i c a t i o n , a n d a t 6:00 o'clock a d i n n e r is served, after which t h e b r e t h r e n r e t u r n t o t h e place of m e e t i n g a n d continue t h e b u s i n e s s u n t i l 7:15, when t h e y go as a b o d y t o t h e G r a n d L o d g e t o w i t n e s s t h e exemplification of t h e W o r k . T h e t i m e of t h e District D e p u t i e s is wholly d e v o t e d t o t h e discussion of m a t t e r s developing in t h e L o d g e s d u r i n g t h e y e a r . T h e G r a n d M a s t e r t a k e s , t h i s o p p o r t u n i t y t o call their a t t e n t i o n to v a r i o u s p r o p o s i t i o n s which h a v e come t o h i m during t h e p a s t y e a r t h r o u g h t h e D i s t r i c t D e p u t i e s , after which t h e G r a n d S e c r e t a r y d e v o t e s t h e r e s t of t h e t i m e in calling a t t e n t i o n t o t h e weak p a i n t s in t h e lodges, as s h o w n b y t h e r e p o r t s of t h e D i s t r i c t D e p u t y G r a n d M a s t e r s , a n d outlines, in a general w a y , t h e p r o g r a m for t h e succeeding y e a r . O t h e r t h a n m a t t e r s of this k i n d we p e r m i t . n o t h i n g t o be b r o u g h t before t h e m e e t i n g of t h e D i s t r i c t Deputy Grand Masters. U n d e r t h e h e a d of " M i s u s e of t h e W o r d M a s o n i c , " t h e Missouri b r e t h r e n are h a v i n g s o m e t r o u b l e w i t h b u s i n e s s firms a n d o t h e r s using t h e word " M a s o n i c , " as we n o t e from t h e following: At the last Annual Communication of this Grand Lodge, in the adoption of the report of the Committee on Appeals and Grievances, In Case 15, as fully set out on pages 11*( to 12.5 of the Proceedings, as well as in the adoption of the resolution presented by W.'. Brother ROY C . SUTTON, as set out on page 203, this Grand Lodge set its disapproval upon anything in the nature of a business or professional venture that would talie advantage of Masonic affiliation to further in any way personal aggrandizement. I have been compelled a number of times this year to call attention to this action of the Grand Lodge. First in the organization of a hospital association in one of our cities advertised by its promoters as a Masonic-Eastern
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—MISSOURI.
77
star Hospital, where the sale of the stock was confined to the Freemasons and members of the Order of the Eastern Star; again by the issuance of an advertising circular by a clothing firm on which the photographs of the employes, together with the Masonic affiliation was shown, and a number of other similar cases. I am of the opinion that anyone who tries to make use of his Masonic affiliation in this way is not worthy of membership in oiu' great Fraternity. T h e following q u e s t i o n a n d answer will n o d o u b t be i n t e r e s t i n g t o some of our b r e t h r e n , as it is wholly unlike a n y of our r e g u l a t i o n s a n d is u n i q u e to s a y t h e l e a s t : What Masonic rights has a brother who has been restored to good Masonic standing but not to membership in a lodge under Section 272? Answer. None, except the right to the certificate showing Ms status and the right to petition for membership. Ail the disabilities provided by Section 196 for a nonafflliate Freemason apply to one holding such certificate. We likewise q u o t e t h e following question a n d answer as we h a v e n o regulation w h a t e v e r in o u r jurisdiction covering t h e m a t t e r of playing c a r d s in one of our a n t e - r o o m s : May an ante-room to the lodge be used by members for the purpose of playing cards? Answer. No, while card playing in itself may probably be a harmless amusement, I do not think it sould be allowed in a lodge or ante-room, an they have been dedicated and consecrated to better uses. We likewise q u o t e t h e following question a n d answer, which w i t h t h e o t h e r s were a p p r o v e d b y t h e G r a n d L o d g e : A candidate petitioned and was rejected by a lodge in Oklahoma; he afterwards moved to Missouri and petitioned a lodge, whereupon the Oklahoma lodge claimed jurisdiction over liim; shall we recognize such claim? Answer. No. An assessrnent of $1.00 for each m e m b e r was levied for t h e erection of t h e George W a s h i n g t o n Memorial T e m p l e a t A l e x a n d r i a , Virginia. T h e s a l a r y of t h e G r a n d S e c r e t a r y w a s placed a t $5,000.00 p e r a n n u m . An a m e n d m e n t was proposed to their laws which p r o v i d e s t h a t no one shall be eligible t o t h e office of M a s t e r more t h a n t w o y e a r s in a n y period of four y e a r s . T h e y also propose t o penalize an E n t e r e d A p p r e n t i c e or Fellow Craft who fails t o present himself for a d v a n c e m e n t within one y e a r b y s u b j e c t i n g h i m t o M a s o n i c discipline. F u r t h e r t h a n t h a t it is proposed t h a t such E n t e r e d Apprentices or Fellow Crafts shall r e g u l a r l y p e t i t i o n for t h e r e m a i n i n g degrees; or, in o t h e r words, t h e y m u s t a g a i n b e s u b j e c t e d t o a b a l l o t . On t h e evening of t h e first d a y of t h e C o m m u n i c a t i o n a p r o g r a m was r e n d e r e d in t h e T e m p l e of I v a n h o e Lodge N o . 446, i n c l u d i n g a n address b y D r . I V A N L E E H O L T , G r a n d Orator. T h e a d d r e s s w a s quite l e n g t h y as we n o t e it occupies fifteen pages of t h e P r o c e e d i n g s in six point t y p e . T h e a d d r e s s is s o m e w h a t different from m o s t discourses of t h i s k i n d as it is comprised largely of reminiscences a n d stories, as well as reference t o historical m a t t e r s in o t h e r c o u n t r i e s .
78
COBRESPONDENCE—MISSOURI.
February,
Their Special Committee on Masonic Clubs submitted a lengthy report, the summing up of which was as follows: First. That If the members'of a partlctilar lodge desire to form a club for social and educational purposes. It shall be formed under the authority of such lodge to which the club shall be responsible. Second. If the' members of several lodges desire to form a club for social and educational purposes, It shall be formed with t h e consent of the Grand Master, and It shall be responsible to him for Its acts.
We take it that the Grand Master of Missouri hereafter will require some extra help in keeping track of the playing cards, billard balls and other equipment which is absolutely essential in clubs, •whether Masonic or otherwise. So far as the educational proposition la concerned we know it is only a joke as there is no such thing in clubs. These Proceedings contain another interesting Report on Correspondence by their distinguished Brother GEORGE C . WOODS. Brother. WOODS undoubtedly "hits the nail on the head" in the following words concerning physical qualifications: Among the causes which have added so greatly to our membership, thereby doubtless Introducing much crude material, some of which a t least, can never be buUded Into our Great Temple, was t h e disposition, in many quarters, to Ignore the Ancient Landmarks in several respects, and especially with regard to "physical qualifications." 'With a profound sympathy for any and all, maimed, either during the Great 'War, or b y accident in private life, we yet protest that Masonry was never'intended as a harbor for'the unfit, physically or mentally; and to make it such will not only have the effect of crowding our Masonic Homes, but also of changing materially the character of our Order from that originally Intended. Freemasonry may bestow its benefactions upon the helpless and unfortunate without admitting such to our membership, and should never fail in this regard.
Our 1923 Proceedings receive attention at his hands and reference is made to a number of the more important matters which came before t h a t Communication. JOSEPH S . MCINTYRE, M . \ W . ' . G r a n d Master, St. Louis. FRANK R. JESSE, R.-.W.'.Grand Secretary, St. Louis. CHARLES C . WOODS, Correspondent, St. Louis.
Next Annual, St. Louis, October 21, 1924.
MONTANA—1923. Lodges, 143; members, 19,433; net gain, 756. Billings, August 15, 1923.
CLAUDE J. MCALLISTER,
M.-.W.-.
Grand Master. Immediately after Grand Lodge was opened the Grand Master called attention to a bouquet of roses presented by the Order of the Eastern Star, and in doing so expressed the hope that GOD would bless the sisters.
1924-25.
Our
CORRESPONDENCE—MISSOURI.
Grand
Representative,
M.'. W / . Brother
79
ROBERT
J.
HATHAWAY, was present.
The address of the Grand Master is unabridged as it occupies seventy-four pages of the printed journal. In his "Foreword," among other things he has the following to say: It has been a year of regeneration for me. The Giver of Gifts has given to me that which is good and true, a will to help and a courage to do, a heart that could sing the whole day through, whether the sWes were gray or blue. I have come closer to men and they to me. I t has made me a new man, a better man because of these associations. The whole-souled co-operation of the brethren; the faithfulness and untiring energy of my associate officers; the counsel and advice of my brother Past Grand Masters, have been an inspiration to me and lightened the burden in the discharge of my responsibilities.
During the Communication the Grand Lodge, at the instance of the Grand Master, paused long enough to appoint a committee to escort the Grand Worthy Matron of the Eastern Star and others from the "parlor below" to the hall in which the Communication was being held. This was followed by remarks made by the Grand Matron and a number of the prominent ladies connected with that organization. The ceremony consumes six pages of the Proceedings. In 1922 their Grand Lodge provided a regulation wherein each newly made Master Mason should pass the required examination in the lecture of t h a t degree within six months or he would be suspended. Some of the lodges assumed to put this law into effect where the brother has been raised prior to the adoption of the statute. The Grand Master, however, ruled that all brethren so declared suspended should at once be restored to the rolls. • One of their Past Grand Masters ventured to suggest that t h e next Communication of the Grand Lodge be devoted to business matters. We take it from this t h a t the brother was not exactly satisfied with the speech making in connection with the introduction of officers of outside organizations. M.-. W.-. Brother H. S. HEPNBR writes the usual Report on Correspondence, and we are pleased to note that he is liberal in alloting to our 1923 Proceedings three pages of his report. C. S. B E L L , M.-.W.-.Grand Master, Billings. CORNELIUS HEDGES, J R . , R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary, Helena. H. S. H E F N E R , P . . G . - . M . - . , Correspondent, Helena.
Next Annual, Great Falls, August 20, 1924.
80
CORRESPONDENCE—NEBRASKA.
February,
NEBRASKA —1924. L o d g e s , 286; m e m b e r s , 3 9 , 5 8 5 ; n e t gain, 943. O m a h a , J u n e 3, 1924.
C H A R L E S A. C H A P P E L L , M . - . W . - .
Grand
Master. I m m e d i a t e l y before t h e G r a n d M a s t e r r e a d his a n n u a l a d d r e s s a n n o u n c e m e n t was m a d e t h a t t h e G r a n d L o d g e would t h a t afternoon, l a y t h e corner-stone of t h e I n f i r m a r y t o b e built in connection w i t h t h e N e b r a s k a Masonic H o m e . T h e a d d r e s s of t h e G r a n d M a s t e r i s i n t e r e s t i n g , a n d we t a k e pleasure i n quoting t h e following w o r d s f r o m t h e preface: In the measurement of time as used by the plan of man, another year has elapsed since we last met in Annual Communication, and we now meet in response to the provisions of our Constitution in this, the Sixty-seventh Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge. Time speeds by so swiftly that when we pause to reflect we sometimes feel we cannot comprehend its flight, and we are confronted with the ever serious and important fact that man with all of his achievements, with all of his learning, with all of his acquired power cannot arrest nor hold a single instant of time. We are therefore concerned not so much with the flight of time as with t h e more important question; Have wo employed it as it should have been used and thus laid the foundation for improvement of time in the days to come? U n d e r t h e subject of " L o t t e r y or Gift E n t e r p r i s e s , " t h e G r a n d M a s t e r covers a m u l t i t u d e of sins, c o n c l u d i n g w i t h t h e following words: * * * the principle involved in this method of raising money is unMasonic and wrong, and if generally employed by the Masonic institution It would probably be but a question of time until there would be a reaction with a train of evils and with injury to the Fraternity. T h e w r i t e r often w o n d e r s w h e t h e r M a s o n s could wander a w a y v e r y m u c h f a r t h e r from t h e t e a c h i n g s of o u r t i m e h o n o r e d i n s t i t u t i o n , t h a n t o e n g a g e in raffles, l o t t e r i e s a n d t h e l i k e . T h e G r a n d M a s t e r h a d t h e u s u a l experience of m o s t G r a n d M a s t e r s i n regard t o physical defects. T h i s w a s largely b r o u g h t a b o u t t h r o u g h their p r e s e n t l a w w h i c h p e r m i t s a lodge t o receive a p e t i t i o n from one who t h o u g h p h y s i c a l l y i m p e r f e c t is able t o s u p p o r t himself a n d family a n d conform t o t h e ceremonies. B e t t e r stick t o t h e R E A L m e a n i n g of t h e L a n d m a r k s a n d " L e t t h e sleeping dog l i e . " W e a r e pleased t o n o t e t h a t t h e i r G E O R G E W . L I N I N G E R collection of b o o k s is b e i n g cataloged and. p u t in p r o p e r s h a p e for reference. I t w a s t h e p l e a s u r e of t h e w r i t e r t o h a v e k n o w n t h i s b r o t h e r personally, a n d t h e r e f o r e a p p r e c i a t e s t h e v a l u e of h i s wonderful collection of books. T h e G r a n d Secretary, B r o t h e r F R A N C I S E . W H I T E , s u b m i t s h i s u s u a l i n t e r e s t i n g report, covering all m a t t e r s of detail in connection w i t h h i s office, a s well as a v e r y i n t e l l i g e n t a n d u p - t o - d a t e r e p o r t of finances.
1924-25.
CoBBESPONDENCE—NEVADA.
81
The Grand Lodge paused long enough t o receive and extend kindly greetings to their Past Grand Master JOHN A. EHRHARDT, who had been ill but was able to present himself at this Communication of the Grand Lodge. This brother's first attendance was in 1881, and he stated that he recognized but two faces in the Grand Lodge present at that time^—Past Grand Master DAVIDSON and the Grand Secretary, Brother WHITE. Following this, our own Grand Master, M.'.W.'. ELMER F . STRAIN, was accorded the usual Honors, and following his
introduction to the Grand Lodge, responded in a most interesting manner. We cannot conclude our reference to the journal of the Proceedings without informing our readers that the Grand Lodge of Nebraska withdrew from the Masonic Service Association. Upon the recommendation of the Grand Master their law was so amended that all Masters elect are required to receive the Past Master's degree, and those who are unable to be present at the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge shall receive this honor at the hands of their Grand Custodian. The Report on Correspondence was prepared by Mi'.W.'. Brother JOHN A. EHRHARDT, and includes a review of our 1924 Proceedings.
He regrets that the oration delivered by Brother ERNEST H . LINDLEY was not printed in the Proceedings. In explanation we will say that the writer, who likewise happens to be Grand Secretary, urged upon our distinguished Brother LINDLEY for months prior to the delivery of his oration, the necessity of having it in manuscript form so it might be included with the printed Proceedings. No attention, however, was paid to the request and Brother LINDLEY informed the Grand Secretary that he was unable to furnish his address in written form. ROBERT R . DICKSON, M.-.W.-.Grand Master, O'Neill. FRANCIS E . W H I T E , R.-.W.%Grand Secretary, Omaha.JOHN A. EHRHARDT, P .-. G .-. M .•., Correspondent.
Next Annual, Omaha, June 9, 1925.
NEVADA —1924. Lodges, 23; members, 2,629; net gain, 108. Reno, June 11, 1924. SILAS E . ROSS, .M.-.W.-. Grand Master. The Grand Master in the preface to his address, has the following to say: "Time like a mighty river flows on unceasingly. Day succeedeth day; month unto month until the tale of the year is told." It is a little less than twelve months since we assembled in Annual Communication and you invested me with the gavel of direction over this Grand Jurisdiction. At that time. I accepted the ofBce of Grand Master fully realizing my limitations but with entire confidence that I would have the loyal support of every member of this
82
CORRESPONDENCE—NEVADA.
February,
Grand Lodge, and also every member of the jurisdiction. I was.conscious of the great responsibility and with a prayer to Almighty GOD to assist me to rise to my great opportunity for service, I entered upon the duties of the ofHce, and now submit to you the account of my stewardship. His interest in the Craft is reflected in his report under the head of "Visitations," wherein it requires almost eight pages of the printed Proceedings to record briefly, but very intelligently, these visits. Under the head of "State of the Craft," he has the following to say which reflects credit on the membership in that jurisdiction: Sixty per cent, of the lodges own their lodge rooms. Forty per cent are meeting in rented quarters. Two lodges are engaged in reconstruction of recently purchased quarters and hope to occupy their own lodge rooms by fall. Nearly all lodges own building sites. We note during the deliberations that Grand Master Ross presented to the Grand Lodge a picture of all the Grand Masters of their Grand Lodge from its inception to date. Our Nevada brethren are indeed fortunate in this particular and should see to it that this picture is placed where it will be safe from destruction by water or otherwise. The writer some years ago began the work of securing pictures of all the Grand Masters of this jurisdiction which he finally succeeded in doing, but in one instance was obliged to make "strict search," not only throughout the United States, but abroad, for over fourteen years. His efforts, however, were successful and the picture was finally located. • The Committee on Jurisprudence recnmrnerded that their Constitution be amended, providing that where a majority of an investigating committee made an unfavorable report it was not necessary to take a ballot. We rise to ask our Nevada brethren how the applicant so rejected would answer the common question if he petitioned another lodge, "whether he had ever before petitioned and been rejected." Certainly under this amendment to the Constitution he was not rejected by the lodge, but by a part of the committee on investigation. The Report on Correspondence was again presented by their faithful Grand Secretary, R.-.W.-.Brother EDWARD D . VANDERLIETH, and he favors us with almost three pages of his report in covering our 1923 journal. EDWARD A. DUCKER, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Carson City.
EDWARD D . VANDERLIETH, R.-.W.-.Grand Secretary and Correspondent, Reno. Next Annual, Reno, June 10, 1925.
1924-25.
CoBBESPONDENCE—NEW
JERSEY.
83
NEW JERSEY-1924. Lodges, 2 2 6 ; m e m b e r s , 78,469; n e t gain, 4,615. T r e n t o n , April 1 6 , 1 9 2 4 . F R A N K C . SAYRS, M .-. W.-. G r a n d M a s t e r . W e first desire t o call a t t e n t i o n t o their E m e r g e n t C o m m u n i c a t i o n held a t T r e n t o n , April 3, 1924, for t h e purpose of unveiling t h e t a b l e t erected b y t h e G r a n d Lodge in m e m o r y of their first G r a n d M a s t e r , M.-.W.-. B r o t h e r D A V I D B R E A R L E Y .
T h e G r a n d L o d g e w a s opened in Ample F o r m , after which t h e y proceeded t o t h e Episcopal C h u r c h where a well a r r a n g e d c e r e m o n y was c o n d u c t e d . T h i s included b o t h vocal a n d i n s t r u m e n t a l m u s i c , concluding with a n address b y B r o t h e r D A V I D M C G R E G O R : I n t h i s address special reference was m a d e t o t h e m e m o r y of M.". W.'. B r o t h e r D A V I D B R E A R L E Y , first G r a n d M a s t e r of N e w J e r s e y , a n d a p a t r i o t of r e n o w n . T h e Proceedings contain a picture of t h e t a b l e t placed o v e r t h e grave of this b r o t h e r . A t t h e A n n u a l C o m m u n i c a t i o n we n o t e t h a t our G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e , M . ' . W . " . B r o t h e r A R T H U R P O T T E R T O N , w a s on h a n d . T h e y were honored a t this C o m m u n i c a t i o n with distinguished visitors from E n g l a n d , P e n n s y l v a n i a , D e l a w a r e , Connecticut, R h o d e Island, a n d N e w H a m p s h i r e . T h e U n i t e d G r a n d Lodge of E n g l a n d . w a s r e p r e s e n t e d b y R.-.W.'.Brother S I R A L F R E D R O B B I N S , P a s t G r a n d W a r d e n a n d P r e s i d e n t of their B o a r d of General P u r p o s e s . A m o n g other t h i n g s t h e G r a n d M a s t e r , in t h e preface t o his a d dress, has t h e following t o s a y : The Springtime, which finds us assembled in Annual Convention, prompts us, by its many manifestations of life and beauty, to heartfelt feelings of gratitude for the blessings and comforts that are ours and for the privilege of again meeting many who have grown dear to us by reason of years of association In our Ancient and Honorable Fraternity. F o r t h e i n f o r m a t i o n of t h e M a s t e r s of t h e i r lodges t h e G r a n d M a s t e r q u o t e s t h e following u n d e r t h e head of " P h y s i c a l D e f e c t s : " When the visible physical defect or deformity of the petitioner is not such as to prevent him from literally complying with all the requirements of Ancient Craft Masonry, and does not prevent him from honestly acquiring a livelihood for himself and his dependents, it constitutes no bar to admission. Referring t o t h o s e who passed a w a y during t h e year we t a k e pleasure' in q u o t i n g t h e following few words from his reference t o t h e i r R . - . W . - . , B r o t h e r H E N R Y S N O W D E N H A I N E S , w h o passed t o his r e w a r d
on A p r i l 18, 1923: I t Is not possible, by mere words, to add to the tribute which the labors of our departed brother, in behalf of the Institution of Freemasonry, has left in the minds of the members of the Craft, particularly in New Jersey, and to a considerable extent throughout the entire country. SufBce it to say that he gave freely and unselfishly in a cause which he loved, because of its great principles, and labored in the service for a period'extending over fifty years. He occupied the position of Grand Instructor continuously for thirty-eight years, and as such was loved and esteemed by the entire Craft of our State.
84
CORRESPONDENCE—NEW
MEXICO.
February,
The writer, possibly, appreciates the sentiment expressed in these words better than any of the other brethren in this jurisdiction as he had the pleasure of knowing Brother HAINES personally for many years. Their Masonic Home is controlled by what is termed a "Board of Governors," appointed by the Grand Master, and we find in this volume of the Proceedings one of the most complete and well arranged reports dealing with t h e Masonic Home which has ever come under our observation. It is embellished with a number of excellent halftones of parts of the Home, which we have no doubt is very interesting to the members in New Jersey. The Report on Correspondence was prepared by Brother ROBERT A.. SHIRREFS, and includes.a brief review of our 1923 Proceedings. ANDREW FOULDS, J R . , M . - . W . ' . G r a n d Master, Passaic. ISAAC CHERRY, R.-.W.-.Grand Secretary, Trenton. ROBERT A. SHIRREFS, Correspondent, Elizabeth.
Next Annual, Trenton, April 23, 1925.
NEW MEXICO —1924. Lodges, 53; members, 6,163; net gain, 188. Raton, February 18, 1924.
JOSEPH GILL, M.-.W.-.Grand Master.
The opening exercises were accompanied by music and an address of welcome b y Brother HOWARD L . BICKLEY, and among other things he had the following to say in his pleasing address: This is a month of Masonic anniversaries and this brings up the proud recollection of the names of many distinguished Masons whose names have graced annals of our countrj'. We are proud of the achievements of such Masons as PATJL REVERE, ALEXANDER HAMILTON and JOHN HANCOCK whose bold
signature upon the Declaration of Independence has become the symbol of splendid courage, EOBEKT MORRIS, one of the signers of the Declaration of
Independence who contributed largely of his fortime for the patriot cause and otherwise helped to win the war, JAMES MONROE whose doctrine forms a pivot of history; the great JOHN MARSHALL who more than anyone else constructed our Constitution as we iiow understand it. The Grand Master consumes less than six lines in presenting hi3 address, exclusive of some reference to outside organizations. He reported that they had in their fund for the purpose of establishing a Masonic Home something over $57,000.00, and he recommended the appointment of a committee to select a location for such an institution. We wish them success in their commendable enterprise. The Grand Master read into his address a communication from the Grand Master of what is termed The Gran Logio Valle de Mexico, which takes up seven full pages of the Proceedings. Following this communication the Grand Master recommends that fraternal recog-
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—NEW
SOUTH
WALES.
85
nition be extended to. The Gran Logio Valle de Mexico without interference with their former recognition of the York Grand Lodge, and which in fact is the only legitimate Masonic Grand Lodge in Mexico. The recommendation went to their Committee on Grand Master's Address and strange as it may seem they recommended that it be approved. The Grand Lodge, however, amended the report by referring this subject to the Committee on Jurisprudence. This Committee, however, failed to make a report on the subject, or at least the writer has been unable to find it. The Report on Correspondence was prepared by Brother JOHN MILNE, and includes a review of our 1923 Proceedings, occupying
almost ten pages of his excellent report. Anent the New Hampshire matter we respectfully refer him to our introduction to this report. JOHN W . TURNER, M.-.W.-.Grand Master, Silver City. ALPHEUS A . K E E N , R . - . W . \ Grand Secretary, Albuquerque. JOHN M I L N E , Correspondent, Albuquerque.
Next Annual, Silver City, February 15, 1925.
NEW SOUTH WALES —1923. Lodges, 437; members, 50,638; net gain, 5,611. Special
Communication,
Sydney,
July
6, 1922.
WILLIAM.
THOMPSON, M . \ W . - . G r a n d Master.
Brother
A. J. BURBIDGE, our Grand Representative, was pres-
ent. The Grand Master submits an interesting address, from which we take pleasure in quoting the following: In my early Masonic days T used to view with the utmost horror the absence of care in this great essential that was practically everywhere apparent. You would hear a candidate being proposed and seconded by brethren who had no real knowledge whatever of him, and in ninety-nine cases out of one hundred without fm'ther evidence he would gain admission: in fact, it came to be considered that almost anybody who had the necessary initiation fee could get Into some Masonic Lodge or another. That was a great blot on our escutcheon, and I determined, when I assumed this of&ce, to make admission to a Masonic Lodge the most difficult thing possible to attain. I wanted to make It harder to be accepted in a Masonic Lodge than to gain admission to any other body of men imaginable, and this is now done by our system of Investigation Committees in every lodge. Human nature is a very peculiar thing, and nothing easy seems to us to be of any value whatever. If gold were lying about in the streets it would not be considered worth the picking up, and, conversely, by making admission to our Order difficult, we make It the more desirable of attainment. If we are careful to see that no one can gain admission unless he be a wellproved man of good character and qualities, that is the way to make all the better elements in the community eager to join us, because they realize that there must be something very good in Masonry when It is so difficult to become s Mason. Nearly every lodge has now its own Masonic Temple, and the best people of the State of New South Wales are today seeking to gain admittance to a Masonic Lodge.
86
COBBESPONDENCE—NEW
YOBK.
February,
We consider the following a remarkable record for one who has served continuously for eight years as Grand Master: During these eight years I have visited ofBcially some 629 lodges. My duties would not have been so light had it not been for my happy relationship with my Grand Lodge OfDcers. We have indeed been a happy and united family, and I have nothing but the greatest esteem and regard for each of them. They all seemed to realize that I was as it were, the father of their little family, and have always done all they could to lighten my labors, and have shown me every mark of affectionate regard and respect. At their Quarterly Communication held in Sydney on March 14, 1923, a complete report was submitted by their "Inspectors of Worki n g s " in which each gives a detailed account of his official visits, all of which requires thirty-eight pages of the Proceedings. At the Quarterly Communication held in Sydney on June 13, 1923, the Grand Secretary reports having made official visits to one hundred twenty-three of their lodges. In addition to that one hundred thirtythree lodges were visited by Grand Officers. A remarkable record and worthy of commendation. An interesting Report on Foreign Correspondence is presented by the several members of their committee in a topical form, which of course is interesting to the reader of these reports, but to the writer of the Reports on Correspondence it is an impracticable form. To illustrate: the writer of this report writes corresponding ones for the •Grand Chapter, Grand Council and Grand Commandery, making it necessary for him to review more than three hundred books each year, :in addition to performing his duties as Grand Secretary and Grand Recorder of all the above Bodies. Where these reviews are prepared under the names of the several jurisdictions it is a much easier task than to attempt to read the entire report when prepared in topical :form in order to ascertain what is being said by the writers in other jurisdictions. We offer the above with the kindliest feeling for our Committee on Correspondence in New South Wales; however, we regret that time will not permit of the reading of the report. WILLIAM THOMPSON, M.-.W.-.Grand Master. ARTHUR H. BRAY, R . ' . W . ' . Grand Secretary, Sydney.
NEW YORK —1924. Xiodges, 941; members, 299,034; net gain, 12,440. New York City, May 6, 1924.
ARTHUR S. TOMPKINS, M . - . W . - .
Grand Master. R.-.W.-. Brother SIDNEY MORSE, our Grand Representative, was present. We note that on account of illness M.'. W.\ Brother TOMPKINS was obliged t o have a portion of his address read by Past Grand Master
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—NE
ROBERT H . ROBINSON.
W YORK.
87
From his introduction we are pleased to quote
the following: The Masonic year, now about to close, has been one of consecration and service; of earnest devotion to the ideals of the Craft, and has been characterized by some measure of achievement. We have endeavored to uphold the banner and carry forward the work of Freemasonry, to the glory of the Great Jehovah, and for the service of our fellowmen. We have not been exempt from those pangs of sorrow that death brings to us every passing year. In one respect, Grand Masters' annual addresses are alike in substance if not in form, and that is in recording for the present and coming generations the roll of our honored dead,-^"The arm of friendship cannot interpose to prevent His coming,—the wealth of the world cannot purchase our release, nor will the Innocence of youth, nor the charms of beauty propitiate His purpose." The unrelenting hand of death has, during the past year, as in every year, taken from our ranks those we loved and mourn, and it is appropriate that a t the outset of our proceedings, we pause and pay tribute to their memories. Referring t o t h e d e a t h of t h e i r R.-. W.'. B r o t h e r E R A S T U S C . K N I G H T , he h a d t h e following k i n d words t o s a y , which we a r e sure will b e extremely interesting t o our r e a d e r s : A life devoted t o Masonry and to Alasonic ideals ended in the death of R.-.W.VEBASTUS C . KNIGHT, of Buffalo, on September 3, 1923: Following an accident which resulted in a broken hip, and a subsequent slight operation, he suffered a paralytic stroke and passed through the sable-hung portals into the greater life from whose bourne no traveler returns save in spirit and the memory of those thoughts and those deeds which come to us out of the past as an inspiration for the future. Though Brother KNI'JHT claimed Buffalo as his home, and though it was there his body was laid to rest to be seen no more of man, yet the last few years of his life were spent in New York in the service of the Grand Lodge, more particularly in connection with its relief work. Here those in active association with the larger affairs of the Fraternity had ample opportunity to learn his worth as a man- and a Mason. He was a peculiarly lovable person. I t was always a pleasure for him to meet his fellows. His was always the friendly grasp, his the cheering word. The lessons of the Ave points of fellowship were not empty phrases to him. They were lessons taught to him in his young manhood, lessons he taught with sincerity and with emphasis in later years when the opportunity to do so was liis, lessons which he made a part of the creed of an honorable life. He was universally tactful and considerate in handling the many complex cases given him for investigation. Always sympathetic and alert to the fact that " t h e greatest of these is charity," yet his sense of justice was so keen that neither applicant nor Fraternity suffered from or was imposed upon through his judgment.
Under the head of "Visits to the Home" we are .pleased to quote the following as it indicates the close relation existing between the Grand Lodge of New York and their Home: On the 23rd day of June, 1923, we made our annual visit to the Home a t Utica where we were entertained in the usual hospitable manner by R.'. W .•. WILLIAM J. WILEY, MRS.' WILEY and Miss WILEY;
and enjoyed splendid music
furnished by the band and orchestra, made up of the boys and girls of the Home. After dinner, we had a meeting of the District Deputy Grand Masters and the following morning observed St. John's Day, in the Daniel D. Tompkins Memorial Chapel, by a service that was inspiring and helpful, attended by brethren from many parts of the State, as well as by many members of the Home.
88
CORBESPONDENCE—NEW
YORK
February.
At the time of preparing the report they had five hundred twentyone men, women and children in this institution. He reports that their facilities and equipment are altogether inadequate. We have no doubt the brethren of New York will meet these conditions and in due time provide accommodations for all who may need their help. They have in connection with the Home what is termed a "Community Home Church;" in other words, its purpose is to provide a Church Home for all members, regardless of the particular denomination to which the members are attached. We take pleasure in quoting the following under the head of "Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hospital:" In the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hospital, there are about eighty patients. It is being supported by voluntary contributions and must be so supported until a sufBcient endowment fund is established, which, it is estimated, will be ten or more years hence. The lodges t h a t have not contributed to this fund are urged t o do so. Lodges that have made small contributions, are asked to give more, for the support of this great Masonic charity, and individual members of the Craft who have not contributed or pledged to this fund, may here find an opportunity to engage, at very small cost, in practical Masonic service. I t is a medium through which we may discharge our solemn and binding obligation to "help, aid and assist all poor and distressed Master Masons, their widows and orphans." The Hospital is doing a wonderful service, in caring for the sick and incurable, a service that wo have been unable to render in the care of sick and helpless people. Brethren, keep this subject before your lodges: make them familiar with conditions and needs and urge the liberal support of the hospital, which has a capacity for more than two hundred patients, and to which new patients are being frequently admitted.
One year ago it was proposed to establish an official Grand Lodge periodical and under the direction of a special committee a communication was sent to all lodges, outlining the plans for this publication, which was to be sold to the Craft at the rate of $1.50 per year. Strange as it may seem, out of their membership of almost 300,000 there were only about 3,000 subscriptions received. This is conclusive beyond a question of doubt that under the so-called Masonic educational proposition Kansas has the right idea and instead of attempting to force their members to read Masonic periodicals they are delivering true Masonic light and knowledge to the membership personally through the medium of our district meetings and District Deputy Grand Masters. As the old saying goes, you can lead a horse to water, but you cannot make him drink. This Grand Lodge had established three Lodges in Finland, and on proper petition they were allowed to organize a Grand Lodge in that country; they likewise • have three lodges working under their jurisdiction in Roiimania. During the year Letters of Dispensation were issued for the establishment of two lodges in Syria. He recommends a readjustment of their finances, claiming that their present system is outgrown and a better plan should be adopted. They were honored with the presence of R.'. W.-. Brother Sir ALFRED ROBBINS, being the personal representative of the Grand Master
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—NEW
ZEALAND.
89
of the United Grand Lodge of England. During the Cotnmunication, at the request of the Grand Master, Brother ROBBINS delivered an interesting address. Through a Committee on Ceremonial Forms we note the adoption of a revised form of the Burial Service; Ceremonial for a Lodge of Remembrance (heretofore known as a Lodge of Sorrow); Ceremonial for Laying Corner-stone; Presentation of Flag During Lodge, and a formula for the Presentation to Candidates of the Holy Bible. In view of their valuable library we wonder if our good brethren of New York will keep on file in their Historical Department copies of their old forms of these Ceremonies for future generations. Without any disposition to cast any reflections upon the Holy Writ, the writer is of the opinion that our custom of presenting each newly raised brother with a copy of our adopted Monitor is much more desirable than presenting him with a bible, or in other words, is it not apt to keep up the brother's interest and eventually make him a good lodge worker? Through the Committee on Correspondence they extended fra- . ternal recognition to the so-called Grand Lodge of Egypt; also one in Jugoslavia and Bulgaria. They likewise recognized the Grand Lodge of Chili which was done by our Grand Lodge almost fourteen years The Committee on Foreign Correspondence includes with their report a brief review of our 1923 Proceedings. We note that Brother KENWORTHY was gracious enough to accept our suggestion in the matter of printing the names of the Grand Officers on the outside back cover of their Proceedings. Thanks. WILLIAM A. ROWAN, M.-.W.-.Grand Master, New York City. ROBERT JUDSON KENWORTHY, R . - . W . ' . Grand Secretary, Masonic
Hall, New York City. S. NELSON SAWYER, Correspondent, Palmyra.
NEW ZEALAND —1923. Lodges, 236; members, 21,320; net gain, 1,605. Wellington, November 28, 1923.
JOHN RUSHWORTH, M . - . W . ' .
Grand Master. In accordance with the usual custom; the Grand Director of Ceremonies after the brethren had assembled, announced the M.'. W.". Grand Master to be in attendance and called upon the brethren to receive him. The first order of business was the election of a Grand Master, which resulted in the re-election of the present incumbent. In accepting the office Brother RUSHWORTH had the following to say: The M.'.W.'. the Grand Master said he had intended to retire while the question was being discussed, but vmfortunately he had been slack in getting
90
CORRESPONDENCE—NEW
ZEALAND.
February,
away, and he had had to listen to the kindly words that had been said in regard to himself—words which he felt he did not deserve. He was deeply sensible of the great honor that had been conferred upon him in his re-election. He had endeavored t o do his duty in the last twelve months, but nobody knew bettor than himself the extent to which he had failed. For that reason he felt all the more appreciative of the honor shown to him by Grand Lodge in his re-election. Under the head of " G r a n d Representatives" we notice the announcement of the appointment of R.'. W.-. Brother ERNEST WARNES as our Grand Representative near their Grand Lodge. This was made necessary on account of the death of R.'.W.-. Brother C. P . B. BISHOP. A mutual agreement exists between the Grand Lodges of New Zealand and Scotland whereby New Zealand assumed jurisdiction over the Islands of Samoa, and in accordance therewith granted a warrant for the establishment of a Lodge at Apia. Under the head of "Records of Craft Lodges" we note t h a t some of the lodges in that far off country are indifferent as to the importance of the early records, as shown in the following: During the year the Board gave consideration to the question of the custody of the records of the various lodges, and as a result of inquiries addressed by the Grand Secretary to lodge Secretaries, it has been ascertained that in a number of instances the older lodges are not in possession of their earlier records. This is.a matter to be regretted, and the Board would like to impress upon lodges the necessity of taking steps in the future to carefully preserve their records, either by providing lire-proof safes or by lodging them in a local bank or other safe deposit. T h e following rule was a d o p t e d in r e g a r d t o elected c a n d i d a t e s : A candidate shall upon request present himself for initiation within twelve months after the date of his ballot, and in default thereof such ballot shall be declared void. Provided always that the Worshipful Master may for any reason, such as illness, or otherwise, extend the time, and provided further, that any lodge may by its By-Laws shorten the above period of twelve months, but except as aforesaid shall not extend it. W e t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following from t h e address of the Grand Master: The power and influence of Freemasonry is just what Freemasons choose to make it. I t can be a great force in the world for good, uplifting and elevating, bringing comfort, light and happiness to all. Alternatively, it can become merely a body practicing secret signs and symbols, with a ritual beautiful in Itself but meaningless unless it leads to the practice of what is preached. T h e following few w o r d s i n d i c a t e t h a t our b r e t h r e n a t t h e i r a n n u a l m e e t i n g s a r e n o t unmindful of t h e ladies: On the evening of the same day, the Grand Ball, which took place Jn the Town Hall, was in every way a most successful function, and was very largely attended by both vistors and local brethren and their lady friends. JOHN RUSHWORTH, Viscount Jellicoe of Scapa, M.-. W.'. Grand Master, Wellington. GEORGE BARCLAY, R . - . W . ' . Grand Secretary, Christchurch.
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—NORTH
CAROLINA.
91
NORTH CAROLINA —1924. Lodges, 456; m e m b e r s , 39,655; n e t gain, 1,307. Raleigh, J a n u a r y 15, 1924. H U B E R T
M c N . POTEAT,
M.-. W.-.
Grand Master. We n o t e t h a t our G r a n d Representative was n o t present. U n d e r t h e h e a d of " V i s i t a t i o n s " t h e G r a n d M a s t e r s t a t e s t h a t t h i s feature of h i s a d m i n i s t r a t i o n w a s delightful i n e v e r y respect, a n d regrets t h a t h e w a s unable t o accept all t h e i n v i t a t i o n s . A m o n g his visits we n o t e one for t h e purpose of assisting in t h e installation of a C h a p t e r of t h e Acacia F r a t e r n i t y a t t h e University of t h a t j u r i s diction. I t seems t o b e t h e i r c u s t o m t o h a v e t h e n a m e of t h e G r a n d M a s t e r engraved on all corner-stones. This i m p o r t a n t item was overlooked b y one of their lodges a n d t h e oversight was n o t observed until t h e G r a n d M a s t e r was r e a d y for t h e ceremony. T h i s n o d o u b t will b e a lesson t o t h e lodges a n d i t will n o t be overlooked in t h e future. H e h a s t h e following t o s a y under t h e h e a d of " O x f o r d O r p h a n a g e : " I have had the pleasure and privilege of visiting this beloved institution several times during the past year; and I recommend to any North Carolina Mason who is suffering from indifference, discouragement or spiritual destitution, a trip to Oxford and a close-up view of the Orphanage and its blessed work. You will hear later the report of the Board of Directors, to which I asli your .careful attention. H e ruled t h a t a n a p p l i c a n t w h o h a d lost his toes a n d p a r t of o n e foot could be m a d e a M a s o n . U n d e r t h e h e a d of " S t a t e of t h e Craft," we t a k e pleasure i n quoting t h e following: In the first place, there is constant grumbling among large numbers of the brethren a t the "high cost of Masonry." I am well aware of tho fact that a great many of our members have a hard struggle to support themselves and their families. But I do not believe any man has any business joining a Masonic Lodge unless he is not only able but happy to bear his share of the expenses of the Order and to take some worthy part in contributions to tlie great objects fostered by the Grand Lodge. The day wlien Masonry could be run as a sort of cheap charity show has passed, and 1, for one, thank GOD for it. Moreover, it is undeniably true that "where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." •Secondly, ignorance of Masonic Law. In very few lodges is any time given to the reading and study of the Code, and I am firmly convinced that t h e majority of offenses committed by lodges arise from pure ignorance and not from wilful disregard of the law. Thirdly, indifference to the Grand Lodge, its officers and its edicts, I have found, this year, that there are lodges in this State which desire to be a law unto themselves and which resent inspection, advice and what they term interference by District Deputies, Lecturers and other officials For example, a few weeks ago one of the District Deputies reported to me that a certain lodge In his District had not been lectured within the memory of the oldest member. When I instructed the Master of the lodge to make arrangements at once for a Lecturer, or give up his charter, he asked me, very courteously, what authority
9"-
CORRESPONDENCE—NORTH
CAROLINA.
February,
I had for issuing such instructions, and informed the Field Secretary, at the same time, t h a t the members of his lodge considered their work more beautiful than that used by their sister" lodges. I regard such an attitude as this as particularly pernicious and it is more wide-spread than many of you realize- I am no iron-flsted autocrat, but I warn you solemnly, my brethren, that the time has come for the Grand Lodge to demand of the subordinate lodges an instant and cordial compliance with all its laws, resolutions and edicts. An excellent oration was delivered by Brother THOMAS J. HARKINS,
and we are pleased to quote the following: From out the chaotic night of mental, moral and spiritual desolation, wrought by this decade of world debauchery, humanity's voice is heard to cry out: " O h , where is liumanity's hope, where its haven!" There is but one answer to this cry of agony. I t comes down to us out of the record of the past. For twenty centuries it has reverberated through the corridors of time, seeking lodgment in the hearts of men. If humanity will but catch the echo, shake off the slime of individual and national selfishness, subdue the passions of lust and greed and stand erect facing toward tlie East it will -behold spanning the heavens the arch of its promise, the rainbow of its hope, and in the splendor of its prismatic hues, liumanity will recognize tiie answer to its cry, for it will read: "Love one another, for this is the whole law." T h e y were h o n o r e d w i t h t h e presence of B r o t h e r L E O N I D A S P . N E W B Y , w h o i s n o w occupying t h e exalted s t a t i o n of G r a n d M a s t e r of t h e G r a n d E n c a m p m e n t of t h e U n i t e d S t a t e s of America. Brother N E W B Y delivered o n e of his v e r y interesting addresses. T h e R e p o r t o n Correspondence w a s p r e p a r e d b y B r o t h e r J . E D W A R D A L L E N , a n d we t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following from his preface t o t h e r e p o r t : It is no short task to write such a document on the great sutjject of " M a sonry Througliout tlie World: Its Doers and I t s Doings," as will be worth the reading. The volumes read and re-read, contain little short of twentyflve thousand pages; in some of them it is exceedingly difBcult to separate from the rest, that material wliicli we should wish to use; and, since tliis scribe is new a t his task, this being his first trip through their volumes to the several Grand Lodges, lie lacks that background of familiarity with the people and the past that would be well-nigh essential in the making of such a Report.
AVe have prepared a Review of every volume that we have received; and we have received every one that reached our Grand Secretary. N o ; there are a few exceptions, which were intentional. We find that a small group of Grand Jurisdictions, as a matter of policy, choose not to have any attempt made to notice the Proceedings of other Grand Lofiges. We accord to these the unabridged right to regulate their own customs and policies, not having felt any desire to intrude upon their intimated wish not to enter into tlie interchange of Masonic intercourse througli the medium of these Reviews. In this group are Massachusetts. England, Ireland, Scotland and Victoria (Australial. Except from Massachusetts, we have received but little from these that would he called a contribution to Masonic literature.
His statistical tables submitted with his introduction are extremely interesting and without doubt will be appreciated by those of our brethren who are really interested in the growth of the Craft and what is being done in other jurisdictions through benevolent channels.
1924-25.
CoBBESPONDENCE—NORTH
DAKOTA.
93
Our 1923 Proceedings are included with his excellent report. Concerning the New Hampshire matter we respectfully refer him to t h a t subject covered as a part of the introduction to this report. J. LEGRAND EVERETT, M.-.W.-.Grand Master, Rockingham. WILLIAM W . WILLSON, R . - . W . . Grand Secretary, Raleigh. J. EDWARD ALLEN, Correspondent, Warrenton. Next Annual, Raleigh, January 20, 1925.
NORTH DAKOTA —1924. Lodges, 124; members, 15,033; net gain, 260. Fargo, June 19,1924. RALPH L. MILLER, M.-.W.-. Grand Master. Just before the Grand Master submitted his address a brief recognition was extended to all present who had been a Master Mason for more than fifty years. We quote the following believing it will be of interest to our readers: At this point the Grand Master asked all Masons present who had been members of the Order for fifty years or more to approach the Altar. Past Grand Master GEORGE H . KEYES fifty-eight years a Mason, Past Grand Treasurer EvAETS C. STEVENS nearly seventy years, FEEDERICK C . WALTHER flftyseven years, CHAELES E . BOYDEN flfty-one years, RICHAED A. BEAED flfty years, and DAVID LLOYD fifty-three years. The Grand Secretary by request, greeted them and welcomed them to this Grand Communication as the honored guests of the Grand Lodge. They were escorted to the East where they received the Grand Honors. Following this reception an "Old Masonic H y m n " to the tune of AMERICA was sung. We take pleasure in quoting the following from the Grand Master's address: Remember, brethren, that the first working tool placed in the hands of an Entered Apprentice teaches the proper use of his time and the first period Is set apart for the " Service of GOD and the relief of a distressed worthy brother." My interpretation of that phrase is that "brother" does Eot necessarily mean a member of our Fraternity although he should be given preference. Then do we live by the plumb and act upon the square as taught by the working tools of the Fellow Craft! • Do we brethren? Each one of us must answer that question for himself. Finally, brethren, do we observe the lessons taught by the trowel, and endeavor to spread the cement of brotherly love and affection which unites us into a great Fraternity among whom there should be no contention except that of "Who best can work and best agree." If all the members of this great institution would only .put into practice the lessons taught by the working tools, how much sooner would come the day for which, we long, the day of Universal Brotherhood, when peace and good will shall prevail. The question now arises: is Masonry as a whole in this Grand Jurisdiction doing its part? I a m happy to report tliat in my judgment it is doing a great deal and will do more as time goes on. One has only to have seen the increased interest and accomplishment during the past three years to feel that our time and labor have been well spent. During the past year our numerical growth has not been large, a net gain of 260 having been made, but the growth in interest and zeal for the highest ideals of Masonry is incalculable.
94
CORRESPONDENCE—NOVA
SCOTIA.
February,
The Grand Lodge was favored with two bequests during the year as indicated in the following: I am sure that you will all be interested t o know that during the past year this Grand Lodge has been named as the beneficiary of two estates. ' In one case for an amount which will approximate .520,000.00, and in the other the whole estate, which will be held in trust for the widow in case the brother's wife should survive him. This is an extremely ilne beginning of what we hope will become,an established custom. What could be more gratifying than for a l^rother of means to make such a bequest, knowing that his money would be used for such a worthy cause as the building of a Masonic Home or that the interest accruing from his donation would be carefully expended in Masonic charity.
In concluding his address the Grand Master is not unmindful of the assistance rendered him by their faithful Grand Secretary, Brother WALTER L . STOCKWELL, and in a few words expressed his deep appre-
ciation of the assistance given him during his administration. The Grand Secretary includes with his report an insert of Brother OLE STEVENS and his six sons, all of whom were raised by Elmore
Lodge No. 83, on June.11, 1924. We trust these brethren will make as good Masons as the likeness indicates and if so they certainly will add luster to the membership in North Dakota. We submit the following resolution which was adopted, without any comment: Be it Resolved, That in that part of the Ceremony of the several symbolic degrees where the candidate is being conducted around the lodge room, at each circuit the candidate be caused to pause in front of the East, face the Worshipful Master and listeii uirecliy to tiie reading of the Scripture lesson or a section thereof instead of having the reading during the actual marching. Brother GEORGE HOVBY PHELPS prepared the Report on Corres-
pondence and includes a review of our 1923 Proceedings. THEODORE S. HENRY, M . ' . W . ' . Grand Master, Valley City. WALTER L . STOCKWELL, R . - . W . \ G r a n d Secretary, Fargo. GEORGE H . PHELPS, Correspondent, Bowbells.
Next Annual, Grand Forks. (No date given.)
NOVA SCOTIA —1924. Lodges, 79; members, 9,579; net.gain, 114. Bridgewater, June 11, 1924.
JAMES HENRY WINFIELD, M.-. W.-.
Grand Master. We are pleased to note that our Grand Representative, Brother JOHN G . MITCHELL, was present.
Among the distinguished visitors in attendance we note that of M . - . W . - . Brother E. W. MACKAY, Grand Master of Prince Edward
Island.
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—NOVA
SCOTIA.
95
Arrangements were made by the local committee for the entertainment of the ladies who were provided with a drive through several nearby towns. In the evening a reception, dance and cards was provided.for the members of the Grand Lodge and their "lady friends." As no mention is made of their wives we are wondering whether this was a batchelors' party. Thursday afternoon a basket picnic was provided for the members and their lady friends. Prior to the usual business of this Communication ah interesting sermon was delivered by their Grand Chaplain. We take pleasure in quoting the following from the preface to the Grand Master's address: An institution which lives entirely within itself, hiding its light under a bushel, can serve no good purpose. We, as Masons, must let our light shine before men that they may see our good works, that they may be led by the force of our example to themselves desire t o live better, broader and nobler lives, to the end that all the world shall some day be one noble brotherhood, whose object shall be the service and uplifting of mankind. In my many visitations throughout the Jurisdiction. I have been struck with the desire for knowledge, the earnest wish so often expressed-for more light in -Masonry, and the evident deep spiritual undercurrent prevailing among the brethren, leading me to believe that now, as never before. Masons are beginning to realize that Masonry has a great work to do—a work not confined with the lodge room, or to the conferring of degrees; but a work extending over the whole round of the existence of our members, and which, if carriedout, will enlarge their sphere of usefulness,, broaden and sweeten their lives and make for that true happiness which is the object of all human endeavor.
The Grand Master, under the subject of "Freemasons' H o m e " reports that this institution is' full to capacity and that for sometime there has been a waiting list. We anticipate, however, that our Nova Scotia brethren will meet this unfortunate condition and provide ample facilities for the increasing demand, as their jurisdiction grows older. We cannot refrain from quoting the following with reference to their efficient Grand Secretary: I have had full opportunity during the past two years to observe the splendid work done by our Grand Secretary. ' The amount of work involved to carry on the duties of the ofBce has been a revelation to me, and I feel sure that the members of this Grand Lodge would be equally surprised if they had the same opporunity that t have had. His work is well and efficiently done, and in my opinion we are particularly fortunate in our selection of such a man as R.'.W.". Brother J. C. JONES for this most important office.
We note that their committee on Grievance and Appeal, to whom had been referred the case of one of their members, recommended expulsion and immediately thereafter he was summoned to the Grand Lodge and declared expelled by the Grand Master. The Report of the Committee on Correspondeiice was the handiwork of Brother JAMES C . JONES, it being his tenth annual review. We
are under obligations for a very fraternal reference to our 1924 Proceedings.
He refers to the absence of the oration of Brother LINDLEY
96
CORRESPONDENCE—OHIO.
February,
from the printed Proceedings. We would refer him to our review of Nebraska for an explanation of its absence. JAMES HENRY WINPIELD, M .-. W.-. Grand Master, Halifax. JAMES C . JONES, R . - . W . ' . Grand Secretary and Correspondent,
Halifax. Next Annual, Halifax.
(No date given.)
OHIO-1923. Lodges, 597; members, 179,788; net gain, 7,447. Cincinnati, October 17, 1923. HARRY S . JOHNSON, M.-.W.-. Grand
Master. M.-.W.*. Brother ALLEN ANDREWS, our Grand Representative,
was present. Quite like the conclaves of a Grand Commandery, the Grand Lodge was escorted from the hotel headquarters to the place of meeting by Palestine Commandery No. 3-3. A lodge of Master Masons was opened in Due Form, after which a cordial welcome was extended by M.-.W.-. Brother HENRY S . KISSELL.
The Committee on Credentials then reported, after which the Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form. We do not quite understand the operation of opening a lodge of Master Masons as there seems to be nothing to indicate that it was ever closed. The Grand Master, in presenting his address, had only the following to say: We have finished the work of another year. As we gather together in this, our One Hundred and Fourteenth Communication, let it be as a stone set up to commemorate a year of blessing and guidance, whereon, with humility and gratefulness, we inscribe, "Hitherto hath the Lord helped us." According to His Wisdom, may the work of this occasion be firmly established.
Following this, and under t h e head of "Necrology," he refers to the death of President WARREN G . HARDING, and an excellent likeness
of that distinguished brother is included in his reference. The Grand Master, with the Grand Treasurer and Grand Secretary, selected acertain bank as a depository for the funds of the Grand Lodge. As we have had experience along these lines we believe our plan of protecting the interests of the Grand Lodge is better, by securing a bond which covers loss of funds whether it be through a bank or a horse race. Through such a bond our Grand Lodge a few years ago recovered every dollar which was in the hands of our Grand .Treasurer who had fallen by the way side. It is gratifying t o note that every lodge in their jurisdiction was inspected during the past year. Our Ohio brethren have a system of district lecturers which correspond in a measure to our District Deputy Grand Masters.
1924-25.
COBBESPONDENCE—OHIO.
97
T h e G r a n d M a s t e r a p p o i n t s t h e t r u s t e e s of their Masonic H o m e as indicated b y t h e following: In accordance with the provisions of Resolutions X X I I of this Grand Lodge, on January 6, 1923, I appointed M.-.W.-. Brother NELSON WILLIAMS, Past Grand Master, Hamilton, Ohio, and Brother CHABLES H . VOEGELE, Mansfield, Ohio, as Trustees of the Ohio Masonic Home, to serve until the next session of the Grand Lodge, and, if then confirmed, to serve for the full term of three years from December 31, 1922, and until their successors are selected. These Brethren were appointed to succeed themselves, and have accepted the appointment. U n d e r t h e head of " V i s i t a t i o n s , " t h e G r a n d M a s t e r has t h e following t o s a y : In my visitations I was profoundly impressed with the extreme respect, the unusual consideration, and the gracious hospitality shown the Grand Master. It all indicated a deep loyalty and devotion to,Masonry. I t is not the personality of the Grand Master but the office he occupies that prompts the brethren to lavish their kindness upon him. It is well, too, that the office should be held in such veneration and respect. Much pleasure and happiness have been accorded me because I had been the recipient of this most unusual of honors. My experience has been helpful and inspiring, and one for which I will ever be grateful to GOD. W e t a k e pleasure in quoting t h e following from t h e subject of " Masonic H o m e , " as it will appeal to our own m e m b e r s who are likewise interested in t h a t magnificent m o n u m e n t of Masonic benevolence: Of all the activities of the Grand Lodge, there is none that enlists.the interest and enthusiasm of the individual Mason quite so much as a visit to the Ohio Masonic Home. Here is where you find Masonry at work. I am glad we are all going to the Home today to enjoy its inspiring outlook, its spacious grounds, and its splendid maintenance. The highest and best and most practical thought and experience of its fifteen Trustees since its beginning are evident everywhere. Every one seems to have such loving and tender and thoughtful attention. The atmosphere that pervades the Home makes us buoyant with a desire to do, to help, to sacrifice. To me it is typical of a real home, where love willingly makes every sacrifice for the welfare and happiness of its own^ I hope your contact with the Home will create in you an interest and enthusiasm that will make you, in your lodge, an ardent advocate for whatever will best promote its purposes and welfare. U n d e r t h e head of " R i t u a l C o m m i t t e e " t h e G r a n d M a s t e r h a d the following t o say: However, I realized that every year the Grand Master is asked to explain or interpret some sections of the Work. Past experience indicates that Grand Masters do not interpret uniformly, and consequently rulings vary and uniformity of practice is not obtained. I, therefore, deemed it advisable to appoint a Ritual Committee, to whom was referred during the year all questions regarding the Ritual. I recommend that the committee be continued from year to year in the interest of uniformity in our ritualistic and monitorial work. His r e c o m m e n d a t i o n was p u t into effect b y an a m e n d m e n t t o Section III of t h e By-Laws of t h e G r a n d Lodge, a n d reads as follows:
98
CORRESPONDENCE—OHIO.
February;
Resolved, That Section I I I of t h e By-Laws be amended b y adding " A Committee on Ritual," of not less than three members, to be appointed by the Grand Master elected for the ensuing year before or Immediately after the close of the Annual Communication at which he is installed.
He reports a case where one of their lodges, in order to raise the necessary funds for rebuilding, account of loss by fire, had organized a club and were issuing tickets for a chance on an automobile, and were sending twenty of these to each brother, who was asked to dispose of them and remit $5.00. The Grand Master's attention was called to this affair and he at once informed the Master that under the law of the Grand Lodge all gifts, distributions and lottery of every kind and character by or under the management or supervision of lodges were prohibited. The Master took the ground that this proposition was conducted by a club which was separate and distinct from the lodge, and therefore they had a perfect right to act in the premises. To this the Grand Master took exception, calling his attention to the fact that the Grand Lodge could not permit its lodges to form organizations within themselves for the purpose of resorting to practices contrary to the regulations, and to this exception was taken which resulted in the Master of this lodge being suspended. This portion of his address was referred to the Committee on Grievances who sustained his action and suspended the Master from office during the remainder of the term and recommended that the incoming Grand Master take such further and necessary steps as the circumstances may justify. Here is a case where .the Master of a lodge made a record of which he will no doubt be proud in the years to come. We regret that space will not permit of referring to other important and interesting matters in these Proceedings, but we must allow space for the other jurisdictions. The Report on Correspondence was, as usual, submitted by Brother O. P . SPERHA, Past Grand Master, and is interesting throughout. Kansas is reviewed for 1923 and we are accorded almost four pages of his report. CAMPBELL M . VOORHEES, M.-.W.'.Grand Master, Columbus. J. H. BROMWELL, R . - . W . ' . Grand Secretary, Cincinnati. O. P . SPERRA, P . - . G . - . M . ' . , Correspondent, Ravenna.
Next Annual, Cleveland, October 15, 1924.
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—OKLAHOMA.
99
OKLAHOMA —1924. Lodges, 433; members, 62,793; net gain, 3,063. . Oklahoma, February 26, 1924.
WILLIAM EDWARD STUART, M . - .
W.'. Grand Master. Just before Grand Lodge opened their Grand Secretary presented the Grand Master with an apron on behalf of his lodge, but we are unable to state whether it was embellished to an extent of being classed as a Past Grand Master's apron or one of a Past Master of a Symbolic Lodge; however, the sentiments expressed in presenting this decoration were such that they will no doubt long be remembered b y the recipient. R.-.W.'. Brother M. F. MANVILLE, our Grand Representative, was present. •In presenting his address the Grand Master had the following interesting words to say: •yVhlle this is the Sixteenth Annual Communication held since the consolidation of our two territorial Grand Lodges, or the Sixteenth Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of the State of Oklahoma; yet It Is the Fiftieth Anniversary of the meeting of an organized Grand Lodge within the present territorial limits of our State, as the Grand Lodge of Indian Territory was organized a t Caddo in the Choctaw Nation in 1874. You will notice, therefore, that we have provided for this meeting a Grand Lodge badge to commemorate tills event in our history. As we look over in retrospect the accomplishments of the last fifty years in the amassing of wealth, the methods of rapid transportation and travel, the accomplishments of science in all Its branches, the expressions of brotherly thought and kindness as expressed In our charitable and benevolent institutions and hospitals, and then try to judge the future by what has been accomplished in the past, we can but stand In amazement a t what our children may experience. I trust that your dreams, even though they may be pipe dreams, of what is to transpire In the next fifty years, may all come true.
In making reference to brethren of other jurisdictions who passed away during the year he directed their Grand Senior Warden to place a white flower on the Altar for each as their name was mentioned. We note it required the placing of thirty-five flowers for the brethren to whom reference was made in this portion of his address. We doubt not this portion of his address was unusually interesting. One of their lodges wanted to know whether it would be proper to give Masonic burial to a member who had committed suicide. The Grand Master decided that that question was left largely with the Master of the lodge. The Grand Secretary, R.-.W.-. Brother WILLIAM M . ANDERSON,
submits an excellent report, but we are at a loss to understand why he does not include in the Proceedings a synopsis of returns of their lodges. The Oklahoma Proceedings are the only ones in the United States which do not contain such a table. We are unable to find anywhere in the Proceedings the number of lodges on their rolls.
100
COBBESPONDENCE—OREGON.
February.
T h e R e p o r t on Correspondence, p r e p a r e d b y B r o t h e r T H O M A S C H A U N C E Y H U M P H R Y , includes a reference t o o u r 1923 Proceedings. H E N R Y S. JOHNSTON, M . - . W . ' . G r a n d Master, Perry. W I L L I A M M . ANDERSON, R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary, Guthrie. T H O M A S C . H U M P H R Y , P . - . G.•. M . - . , C o r r e s p o n d e n t , H u g o .
N e x t A n n u a l , T u l s a , F e b r u a r y 24, 1925.
OREGON —1923. L o d g e s , 158; m e m b e r s , 2 5 , 3 3 1 ; n e t gain, 1,582. P o r t l a n d , J u n e . 1 3 , 1923. G. G. B R O W N , M . - . W . - . G r a n d M a s t e r . T h e j o u r n a l indicates t h a t when t h e roll of G r a n d Officers w a s called a n d t h e n a m e of their G r a n d Chaplain, J. R . N . B E L L was called, l o u d a n d c o n t i n u e d a p p l a u s e greeted t h e n a m e . T h e t i t l e for t h i s d i s t i n g u i s h e d b r o t h e r is i n d i c a t e d as " M . R . " which raises a question a n d t h e w r i t e r is curious t o k n o w t o w h a t this refers. I n t h e i n t r o d u c t i o n of distinguished guests we notice a little m i x t u r e of t h e E a s t e r n S t a r , Scottish R i t e a n d t h e co-ordinate bodies, a s t h e G r a n d P a t r o n of t h e E a s t e r n S t a r w a s e x t e n d e d t h e s a m e h o n o r s as t h e G r a n d M a s t e r of t h e G r a n d Council a n d t h e G r a n d H i g h P r i e s t of t h e G r a n d C h a p t e r . W e n o t e t h e absence of our G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e from t h i s Communication. , T h e G r a n d M a s t e r consumes b u t six lines in presenting his a d d r e s s a n d t h e n follows with a reference t o t h e passing a w a y of their P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r , M.-.W.-. B r o t h e r SILAS M . Y O R A N , in t h e following words: One of my first duties was to conduct the funeral service of M.-. W.-. Brother SILAS M . YOBAN, Past Grand Master, who died at his home in Eugene on June 24, 1922. Brother YORAN was Grand Commander of Knights Templar of Oregon, 1892-1893; was Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Oregon, 1903-1904, and Grand High Priest of the Grand Chapter, R. A. M., of Oregon, 1917-1918. While a student at the University of Oregon I was made welcome as a guest in Brother YOBAN'S home, and I shall never forget the kindly interest he and his family showed in me, a lonesome and homesick boy. Brother YORAN'S presence in the Grand Lodge will be greatly missed, as his was always a commanding and impressive figure. On an anniversary such as this, we hunger for a look at the familiar faces, "for a touch of the vanished hand, for the sound of a voice t h a t is still," but we are comforted by the thought that— "There is no death, the stars go down To rise upon some other shore. And bright In heaven's jeweled crown. They shine forevermore. And ever near us, though unseen. The dear, immortal spirits tread; For all the boundless universe Is life—there are no dead."
1924-25.
CoBBESPONDENCE—OREGON.
101
U n d e r t h e h e a d of " V i s i t a t i o n , " he c o m p l i m e n t s t h e i r D i s t r i c t D e p u t y G r a n d M a s t e r s in t h e following words, all of which we fully a p p r e c i a t e in view of our own experience in t h i s jurisdiction: In this connection the attention of the Grand Lodge should also be called to the very valuable aid rendered to the Grand Master by all the District Deputy Grand Masters. I believe that no single act of legislation passed by this Body has been such an assistance to the Grand Master in the administration of his office as the amendment providing for the appointment of these ofBcers. They bring the Grand Master into close touch with all the lodges In the jurisdiction, and he is by this means enabled immediately to secure reliable Information on points of controversy, without a personal visit, which in many cases would be impossible. We are for t h e D i s t r i c t D e p u t y G r a n d M a s t e r s always. U n d e r t h e s u b j e c t of " E d u c a t i o n a l F u n d s " it a p p e a r s t h a t e i g h t y one sons a n d d a u g h t e r s of M a s t e r M a s o n s are receiving aid, $980.00 being d i s t r i b u t e d m o n t h l y for t h a t purpose. L a s t year, $4,000.00 was a p p r o p r i a t e d from t h e unexpended income of t h e E d u c a t i o n a l F u n d for a revolving scholarship fund, a n d in accordance t h e r e w i t h t w e n t y - t h r e e s t u d e n t s were p e r m i t t e d t o enjoy t h i s a p p r o p r i a t i o n . U n d e r a n a g r e e m e n t with t h e G r a n d C h a p t e r a n d Scottish R i t e bodies, t h e following was a d o p t e d : Now, therefore, itis hereby ordered. That on and after June 1,1923, no petition from any Master Mason raised within the period of one year prior to the date of such petition, shall be received by any Chapter of Royal Arch Masons or Lodge of Perfection in Oregon, unless such petition is accompanied by a certiflcate of proficiency executed in proper form by the Worshipful Master of a regular and duly constituted Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons and attested: by the Secretary of such lodge with seal attached. I n accordance w i t h t h i s action t h e G r a n d Lodge h a s established a s t a n d a r d of proficiency a n d p r e p a r e d a certificate in a c c o r d a n c e therewith. W e t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following closing pa!ragraph of his address: We never suffer any religious disputes in our lodges, and as Masons, we only pursue the universal religion, the religion.of nature. Worshippers of the GOD of Mercy, we believe that in every Nation, he that feareth Him and worketh righteousness is accepted of Him. All Masons, therefore, whether Christians, Jews, or Mohammedans, who violate not the rule of right, written by the Almighty upon the tables of the heart, who do fear Him, and work righteousness, we are to acknowledge as brethren, and, though we take different roads, we are not to be angry with or persecute each other on that account. We mean to travel to the same place; we know that the end of our journey is the same; and we affectionately hope to meet in the lodge of perfect happiness. How lovely Is an institution fraught with sentiments like these! How agreeable must It be to Him who is seated on a throne of everlasting mercy, to thank GOD, who is no respecter of persons! T h e following a m e n d m e n t t o their laws was a d o p t e d : No Master Mason under the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge shall petition for membership in any order or fraternal society, the qualification of membership therein being that of Master Mason, until after the expiration of one year
102
CORRESPONDENCE—PANAMA.
February,
from the date of his having been raised to the degree of Master Mason, nor until he shall have shown suitable proficiency in the candidate's lecture of the Master Mason degree by an examination in open lodge satisfactory to the Master of the lodge. This section shall not apply to college fraternities having the approval of the faculty of the college, or to the Order of Eastern Star.
The Report on Correspondence was presented by M/.W.'.Brother DAVID P . MASON, and includes a review of our 1923 Proceedings.
He
refers to our "bob tail report on Oregon for 1922," which we consider quite a joke. We are, however, pleased to review their regular annual Proceedings for 1923, and regret that space will not permit of additional references t o a number of important and interesting matters. GEORGE T . COCHRAN, M.-.W.-. Grand Master, LaGrande.
D. RuFUS CHENEY, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Portland. DAVID P . MASON, Correspondent, Albany.
Next Annual, Portland, June 11, 1924.
PANAMA —1923. Lodges, 7;.members, 269; net gain, 29. Panama, June8,1928. ABRAHAM D . H . MELHADO, M.-.W.-.Grand
Master. The address of t h e Grand Master is quite brief as he defers all :matters worthy of being reported to the Grand Lodge to the Grand ^Secretary. In so doing, he calls attention to the appointment of a committee for codifying their laws and preparing a Ritual for official visits to subordinate lodges. The Grand Secretary submits a very complete report, giving in detail the work accomplished by each lodge, but uses paragraphs to •convey this information rather than adopting the usual synopsis of returns. Our good Grand Secretary, Brother JESURUN, could greatly improve his report by adopting some of the tables used in other Grand Jurisdictions. We note they list the names of all petitioners who are rejected in the several lodges during the year. A brief review of other Proceedings by the Committee on Correspondence is included in these Proceedings. I t is well prepared, but entirely too brief. We hope that Brother OLLER will spread himself a little more in his next review. JOSE OLLER, M.-.V.-. Grand Master.
(We regret exceedingly that
the Grand Secretary fails to give the address of their Grand Master.) VICTOR JESURUN, V.-. Grand Secretary, Panama. JOSE OLLER, Correspondent.
1924-25.
CoBBESPONDENCE—PENNSYLVANIA.
103
PENNSYLVANIA—1923. Lodges, 541; members, 193,659; net gain, 7,099. Following the usual engraving of the Masonic Temple is an excellent likeness of their Grand Treasurer, R.-.W.-. CHARLES E . ROBERTS. A Quarterly Communication was held on March 7, 1923, at which time the Committee on Finance submitted a report stating that the executors of the estate of Louis H. EISENLOHR intended to turn over to the Grand Lodge the sum of $125,000.00. Under the will of this brother this money is to be used to build and equip a girls' home a t Elizabethtown. A resolution was adopted gratefully accepting this gift. The Grand Master called attention to the Grand Officers jewels being draped in mourning on account of the death of their Past Grand Master R.\ W.*.-JOHN S . SELL. A eulogy was offered by Brother FREDERICK C . SEITZ of Greensburg, pastor of Brother SELL'S church.
A Quarterly. Communication was held on June 6, 1923. The Deputy Grand Master offered a resolution, which on motion was adopted, providing for the appointment of a committee of eight t'o "formulate and devise a plan whereby there shall be established a lecture corps." In accordance therewith the Grand Master appointed the number indicated and a report will be submitted at a subsequent Communication. At the Quarterly Communication held on September 5, 1923, a resolution was adopted providing that in future between meetings of the Grand Lodge all questions in regard to the settlement of estates in which the Grand Lodge is interested, and which requires speedy action, shall be referred to the six principal officers, in conjunction with their Committee on Finance, and they are to be vested with power to act for the Grand Lodge. The Grand Master, in presenting his address, refers to their occupancy of the Masonic Temple in the following words: The Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania has occupied t h e Temple in which we meet tonight for a half-century, and it has seeined to me that it would be interesting and instructive to take a hasty glance at what has happened in those fifty years..
Then follows a history of their Grand Lodge since 1732, during which time they have been located in fourteen different places. This history, although brief, is exceedingly interesting throughout, and we only regret that space will not permit of printing it in full. He called attention to the practice of a member of one of their lodges in what he terms "obnoxious and unlawful electioneering in the interest of a candidate for the office of Grand Junior Warden." We anticipate from past experience that the brother interested will refrain from such action hereafter.
104
CORRESPONDENCE—PENNSYLVANIA.
February,
A t t h e Q u a r t e r l y C o m m u n i c a t i o n of D e c e m b e r 5, 1923, a n d i n accordance w i t h their Ahiman R e z o n , t h e A n n u a l Election of officers t o o k place. A full a n d complete report- of their M a s o n i c H o m e w a s presented b y t h e c o m m i t t e e i n charge, a n d i t consumes t h i r t y - t h r e e pages of their j o u r n a l . This r e p o r t covers e v e r y possible phase in connection w i t h t h a t i n s t i t u t i o n , and speaks well for t h e M a s o n s of t h e K e y s t o n e S t a t e . W e n o t e t h a t t h e actual cost of o p e r a t i n g a n d m a i n t a i n i n g t h e M a s o n i c H o m e s for t h e year ending N o v e m b e r 15, 1923, w a s $232,515.37, being a per capita- cost per y e a r of $660.50, a n d a per c a p i t a cost per day of $1.81. T h e A n n u a l Communication a s usual w a s held on S t . J o h n ' s D a y , D e c e m b e r 27, 1923, t h e address being presented b y R . ' . W . ' . B r o t h e r ABRAHAM M . B E I T L E R , Grand Master.
I n presenting his address he refers t o his eight y e a r s of service as a G r a n d Lodge officer, t h e last t w o being t h a t of G r a n d M a s t e r . H e refers t o t w o notable trips, t h e first of which w a s in c o m p a n y with their D e p u t y G r a n d Master, a n d required t w o weeks t o m a k e t h e journey, covering a distance of about twelve h u n d r e d miles. T h e y a t t e n d e d t h e one h u n d r e d t h a n n i v e r s a r y of t h e l a y i n g of t h e corner-stone of t h e M a s o n i c T e m p l e a t C h a m b e r s b u r g ; t h e twenty-fifth anniversary of H i r a m L o d g e in A l t o o n a ; c o n s t i t u t i n g Lodge N o . 722 a t L&trobe, a n d visiting t h e b r e t h r e n in nine districts. T h e other t r i p was i n connection w i t h the laying of t h e corner-stone of t h e George Washington. Memorial. H e covers a subject which t h e writer is inclined t o believe does n o t properly belong in a n y Masonic d e l i b e r a t i o n — t h e K u Klux Klan. While we a r e w h o l l y ignorant of t h i s organization or i t s purposes, y e t we a r e disposed to believe t h a t outside m a t t e r s of t h i s kind have no place in F r e e m a s o n r y . This organization, like a n y other, is subject t o t h e laws of t h e l a n d a n d if an a c t is c o m m i t t e d which is in violation of t h e C o n s t i t u t i o n t h e y should be punished t h e s a m e a s an individual. • W e d o u b t n o t t h a t t h e following, u n d e r t h e subject of " R e c o m m e n d e r s " will appeal t o our r e a d e r s : I cannot too strongly urge upon the members of the Fraternity in this Grand Jurisdiction the importance of the strictest scrutiny into the worthiness of petitioners for membersliip. The Masonic Fraternity will grow in the respect of the people of our State if our ranlis are recruited from the good and worthy, but its prestige is injured every time an unworthy man is approved and initiated. The rank and- file must be made to appreciate tliat the admission of one bad man to a lodge does mofe iiarm than the admission of a dozen good men does good. No brothter should recommend a petitioner unless he possesses Ifnowledge of the applicant, his residence, liis family relationships and his standing in the community. To recommend a petitioner without careful inquiry is as serious a matter as t o recommend an unworthy man, laiowing him to be unworthy. The report of the Committee on Appeals read on the 5th instant shows how careless some brethren are. In that case a brother recommended a man who lived in Camden, who had been three times rejected in New Jersey. He escaped conviction when tried, upon the groimd that he did not know the facts thougb
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—PHILIPPINE
ISLANDS.
105
very slight inquiry would have put him in possession of all the facts. He was supinely negligent and the harm which might have been done the Fraternity was due entirely to his utter failure to make the inquiries which every brother asked to recommend a petitioner should make. The writer has marked a number of other important matters which would not only be interesting but instructive to our readers, but apace prevents us from adding anything further. The Report on Correspondence was again prepared by Brother THOMAS F . PENMAN, and it includes a review of our 1923 Proceedings, granting us almost four pages of his excellent review. SAMUEL M . GOODYEAR, R . - . W . ' . Grand Master, Philadelphia. JOHN A. PERRY, R . - . W . ' . Grand Secretary, Philadelphia. THOMAS F . PENMAN, Correspondent, Philadelphia. Next Annual, Philadelphia, December 27, 1924.
PHILIPPINE ISLANDS—1924. Lodge's, 9 3 ; m e m b e r s , 6,685; n e t gain, 5. Manila, J a n u a r y 22, 1924. F R E D E R I C H . S T E V E N S , M . - . W . - . G r a n d
Master. W e regret to n o t e t h e absence of our G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e from this C o m m u n i c a t i o n . As a sort of distinction for t h e Proceedings of t h e G r a n d L o d g e a t t h i s Annual C o m m u n i c a t i o n , we q u o t e t h e following from t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s message: I t may seem peculiar to the Masonic world a t large that the greatest problem that confronted the Grand Master this year, was the question of unity, of harmony, the question of keeping the subordinate lodges under this Jurisdiction in one harmonious whole. Our brethren across the seas can hardly realize the questions that arise in this most cosmopolitan center. When you take into consideration the fact that in 1917, when the Ameri-. can brethren of the Grand Lodge of the Philippine Islands deliberately turned over the control of the Grand Lodge to the Filipino brethren, by inviting them to participate in our Grand Lodge, it is difQcult to see why the racial question should be brought into our lodges at this late date and disturb the harmony that has existed, but, unforttmately, due to a few misguided brethren, such is the case. It is to the credit, however, of the majority of the brethren t h a t they have ignored .this unmasonic spirit. 1 believe that because of this trouble, diu-ing the past two years, the Grand Lodge of the Philippine Islands is more closely united and that, today, the Americans and Filipinos are closer together, and, are working more harmoniously for the upbuilding of our Fraternity. But let us not overlook the fact that the Masonic Fraternity must stand united; we must never, under the stress of personal feeling, allow the seeds of discord to take root in our lodges. Let us practice what we preach; let us work for the Fatherhood of GOD and the Brotherhood of Man. Enerhies surround us on all sides and there is no other country in the world where the majority of the people have been schooled by a Latin race, where Masonry has done so much and progressed so rapidly as here in the Philippines. So, let me plead with you that, when this Grand Lodge adjourns, you will go back to your various lodges and strive more and more for harmony and
106
CoBBESPONDENCE—PHILIPPINE ISLANDS.
February,
unity with your brotber, be he American, European, Filipino, Chinese or Hindu. In this wonderful Fraternity of ours, composed of all races and of all creeds, let us prove to the world, whose eyes are upon us, that harmony prevails.
The matters before the Grand Lodge at this Communication, most of which were subjects taken from the Grand Master's message, rather indicate that the Grand Lodge of the Philippine Islands is having much trouble, not only among themselves but from outside sources. In the first place they became a part of a conference of the Supreme Council at Lausanne, Switzerland, which was a gathering largely of Masonic bodies not recognized as legitimate by the very Grand Lodges which gave their moral and Masonic support to the Grand Lodge of the Philippine Islands when it was first created; however, they preferred to become a part of this self constituted body, which among other things subscribed to the following agreement: The undersigned delegates of the Supreme Council of Spain to this Conference hereby solemnly declare a t the earliest possible moment after their return to Madrid they will cause the Supreme Council of Spain to take immediate action to withdraw the charters of all Bodies claiming to be Masonic under its obedience withiin the territory of the United States and the District of Columbia. We also solemnly promise that we will, use all influence and power resting in us to secure lilie action by the Bodies in the same territory under the obedience of the Grand Orient of Spain. We also promise that we will not encourage or tolerate any action or attitude contrary to the wishes of the brethren of the United States of America, relative to the Bodies under the obedience of organized Masonic authority in Spain in the Islands of Porto Eico and the Philippines.
In accordance with the above the Siinreme Council of Spain withdrew the charters in the United States, but ignored both Puerto Rico and the Philippine Islands. This subject covers a large portion of the Grand Master's message. Conditions, however, remain just as they were prior to the Switzerland meeting, and the Grand Lodge of the Philippine Islands is surrounded by lodges under the obedience of the Supreme Council of Spain. Under date of April 27, 1923, R.'. W.-. Brother NEWTON C . COMFORT, as the personal representative
of the Grand Master, submitted a communication to the Gran Oriente Espanol, setting forth twelve reason why lodges chartered by the Gran Oriente Espanol should be closed and the charters cancelled, and the Grand Lodge of the Philippine Islands given entire jurisdiction over that territory. The eighth reason submitted by the Grand Lodge of the Philippine Islands reads as follows: The new lodges founded from 1920 to 1923 in the PhiUppine Islands by t h e Gran Oriente Espanol were composed, a t first, of members of the lodges of the Grand Lodge of the Philippine Islands. By such action they became traitors to the Grand Lodge whose Constitution and edicts each one had obligated himself to obey. The Gran Oriente Espanol would not hesitate a moment to declare a lodge so foimded to be clandestine and irregular. This reason also makes necessary the closing of the lodges named.
In reply to this communication the Gran Oriente Espanol submitted a statement from their point of view, and we quote only that portion referring to the eighth reason quoted above:
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—PHILIPPINE
ISLANDS.
107
Under No. 8 it is afHrmed—a glaring error which constitutes notliing short of Masonic heresy—that the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the Philippine Islands Is the Supreme Masonic authority of said Islands, forgetful of the fact that the Supreme Masonic authority is exercised by the Supreme Councils of the 33rd Degree of the Gran Oriente Espanol and the Southern Jurisdiction of the United States, as solemnly and especially recognized and proclaimed at the Lausanne Conference of 1922, where the Supreme Councils of the 33rd Degree of the whole world were represented and where, after consideration of the matter, an agreement was signed confirming our authority over the Philippine Islands. I t seems from t h e s t a t e m e n t j u s t quoted t h a t t h e Supreme Council of t h e 33° of t h e G r a n Oriente E s p a n o l and t h e Supreme Council of t h e S o u t h e r n Jurisdiction of t h e U n i t e d S t a t e s jointly claimed j u r i s diction over t h e Philippine Islands until t h e convention held in Switzerland. This is p a t e n t on its face t h a t t h e L a u s a n n e conference of 1922 was n o t h i n g more or less t h a n a meeting of t h e Scottish R i t e S u p r e m e Councils of t h e world a n d t h a t t h e r e t h e y assumed exclusive jurisdiction over certain t e r r i t o r y t h r o u g h o u t t h e world, including t h e Philippine Islands. W e k n o w n o t h i n g w h a t e v e r concerning t h e S u p r e m e Council of t h e G r a n Oriente Espanol, b u t we d o k n o w something of t h e Supreme Council of t h e S o u t h e r n Jurisdiction of t h e U n i t e d S t a t e s , a n d v e n t u r e t o raise t h e question w h y it should not relinquish jurisdiction over t h e Philippine I s l a n d s in favor of t h e Grand Lodge as it h a s done in o t h e r countries, a n d especially in Central a n d S o u t h America, instead of g r a n t i n g this t e r r i t o r y t o a n o t h e r Supreme Council. An effort is being p u t forth t o create a Masonic H o m e , School a n d Dormitory. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r w a s obliged t o arrest t h e charter of their F a r E a s t Lodge N o . 10 because, as he s t a t e s , it becarne a " h o t bed of discord and dissension, causing t h e b r e t h r e n to h a t e one another, speak ill of one a n o t h e r a n d forget their solemn obligations." W h e n t h i s subject w a s laid before t h e G r a n d Lodge t h r o u g h t h e proper c o m m i t t e e , there was q u i t e a difference of opinion; however, t h e G r a n d M a s t e r was sustained a n d t h e charter revoked. A proposition looking forward to t h e establishment of a Masonic Relief Association was given consideration a t t h i s Communication, a n d we h a v e no d o u b t t h a t m u c h good will result. F r o m t h e r e p o r t of t h e c o m m i t t e e on " W o m a n ' s Organizations," we q u o t e t h e following as it will be extremely interesting t o our own readers: It is Dherefore recommended that steps be talten by this Grand Lodge to secure a dispensation to organize a Chapter, Court or other body, of one of the nationally known woman's orders now operating in the United States, to be selected by a Committee of the Grand Lodge, with the advice and assistance of a mass meeting of wives, daughters, sisters, mothers and widows of Master Masons of this jurisdiction, called together by the committee for this purpose.
108
CORRESPONDENCE—PHILIPPINE
ISLANDS.
February.
We do understand whether the Grand Lodge will adopt the Order of the Eastern Star, Amaranths or some other of the numerous organizations under the control of the weaker sex. We can add, however, that to the best of our knowledge this is the first instance of a Masonic Grand Lodge taking part, officially, in the organization of any other outside institution. The Grand Lodge has also taken up a "cudgel" against outside organizations using Masonic insignia and usages, and we quote the following resolution which was unanimously adopted: Resolved, by the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the Pliilippine Islands, at its Twelftli Annual Communication, That Masons under its jurisdiction are hereby forljidden from holding any kind of niembersliip in any organization or society wliich, witliout due authority .from said Grand Lodge, makes use of Masonic emblems, regalia, insignia, or rituals, or any near resemljlance thereto, which in the opinion of the Grand Master might tend to deceive or be confused witli Masonic emblems, regalia, insignia and rituals, and Resolved, further, that tlie penalty for any violation of this resolution shall be e.\pulsion; Provided, however, that those Masons already holding membershij) in any such organizations or societies at the time of the passage of this resolution shall have ninety (90) days from the date of the publication of this resolution in The Cabletow within which to discontinue such membership, or memberships, without incurring the penalty hereof; and Provided, fvrlher, that for those Masons who are absent from the Philippine Islands ninety (90) days time shall be allowed them from the time of their return to the Philippines; and Resolved, finally, that the Most "Worshipful Grand Master lie and is hereby authorized and reciuired to declare, and publish, monthly, a list containing the names of the organizations and societies coming within the ban of this resolution.
The Committee on Jurisprudence considered a proposed amendment to their Constitution which provided, among other qualifications for initiation into the Fraternity, that one, the son, of a Master Mason could be received into the Fraternity at the age of eighteen, if special authority were granted by the Grand Master. Strange as it may seem the committee made an adverse report. One year ago it was proposed to amend their Constitution, requiring all candidates on receiving the third degree.to learn the lecture of the same, and it further provided that until this was done no Master Mason was entitled to vote on any question in the lodge, or at the election of officers. The Committee on Jurisprudence agreed on the proposition, except that portion depriving a Master Mason of his rights to take part in the deliberations of the lodge, including his vote. The Grand Master takes issue with the Mystic Shrine, calhng attention to their pilgrimages to the Philippine Islands, stating that questions have arisen as to the eligibility of Filipinos to become members, and "in each instance has caused discord in our ranks." He does not state whether the Shrine barred the natives or not. However, the following was adopted through the report of the Committee on Jurisprudence:
1924-25.
CoBBESPONDENCE—PHILIPPINE
ISLANDS.
109
We approve the Grand Master's comments of the action of a few Masons In our midst who are sowing seeds of discord and stirring up racial feeling among the members of our lodges under the obedience of this Grand Lodge. We are opposed to any restrictions as to our members making application for membership in other organizations which are recognized as regular and legitimate, but we concur in the recommendation of our Grand Master that the Grand Secretary be instructed to address a letter to the Imperial Potentate of t h e Ancient Arabic Order Nobles of the Mystic Shrine in the United States, setting forth the results to Ancient Craft Masonry in this Grand Jurisdiction of the Shrine ceremonials heretofore held in Manila, and requesting that no further dispensations be issued for holding such ceremonials in the Philippine Islands. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r proposed t h e a d o p t i o n of a Cipher R i t u a l a n d t h e c o m m i t t e e t o w h o m i t w a s referred agreed w i t h his idea a n d s u b m i t t e d a v e r y complete r e p o r t as t o t h e p r i n t i n g a n d handling of this work. T h e G r a n d Lodge, however, after considerable discussion, laid it on t h e t a b l e . T h e writer h a s always been led t o believe there w a s no such practice in F r e e m a s o n r y as " l a y i n g " a n y t h i n g on t h e t a b l e , a n d we wonder j u s t where this proposition now s t a n d s . T h e newly elected G r a n d M a s t e r , M.'. W.'. W E N C E S L A O T R I N I D A D , following his installation, offered some v e r y interesting r e m a r k s a n d we regret t h a t space will n o t p e r m i t of q u o t i n g m o r e ; however, his concluding words were as follows a n d should sink deep i n t o t h e h e a r t s of our Philippine b r e t h r e n : Let us not make our lodges a place into which anybody is admitted just to swell our numbers, but rather a place where only real and true Masons meet to further the principles of our Great Brotherhood. ' T h e R e p o r t on Correspondence w a s p r e p a r e d b y B r o t h e r C H A R L E S S. B A N K S a n d we regret t o n o t e t h a t h e m a k e s n o reference t o K a n s a s . I n his preface t o t h e r e p o r t we t a k e pleasure in quoting t h e following u n d e r t h e h e a d of " M a s o n r y a n d Side S h o w s : " It is on the other hand rather sickening to see the growth of epimasonic .mushrooms that in the past few years have become excrescences upon the body of our Order. The "Thlses" and the " T h a t s " and tlie " O t h e r s " ; the "Oaves," the " T u n n e l s " and the "Pitfalls"; the "Shrouded," the "Swathed" and the "Bandaged": the "Scrub Pines," the "Sage Brushes" and the "Loco Weeds," the "Black Arks," the "Blue Reliqueries" and the "Green Graves" all have one avowed (?) and one real purpose, tlie avowed one being sociability presumably, t h e real one being to multiply individual honors, titles, offices and honoraria for the few and to satisfy what appears to be an insatiable desire on the part of the American public for something new, startling and "secret." Will this desire run its course and subside like afever? Will these warts gradually dry up and drop off? Will they keep on swelling and swelling and then, like a bubble, " b u s t " ? Can Masonry afford to be calm, but Arm, and await the Day? Or should there be a decided setting down of the foot and saying " O u t with you all as far as using Masonry as a test of your membership is concerned unless you are recognized as a part of Masonry"? WENCESLAO TRINIDAD, M . - . W . - . G r a n d Master, Manila. N E W T O N C . C O M F O R T , R . - . W . - . G r a n d S e c r e t a r y , Manila. G E O R G E R . H A R V E Y , P . - . G . - . M . ' . , Correspodent.
N e x t A n n u a l , Manila, J a n u a r y 27, 1925.
110
COBBESPONDENCE—PBINCE
EDWABD
ISLAND.
February,
PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND —1924. Lodges, 15; members, 1,169; net gain, 29. Charlottetown, June 25, 1924. EDWARD W . MACKAY, M.-. W . - . Grand Master. Kansas was honored with the presence of R.-. W.-. Brother WILLIAM G. MCDONALD as our Grand Representative. The Grand Master was presented with a bouquet on behalf of a chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star. If this had occurred in the United States it would not have caused any surprise, but in a country so closely allied with the Grand Lodge of England an incident of this kind is out of the ordinary. Of course the Grand Master makes a sort of semi-apology in stating t h a t this Order is not Masonic and does not claim to be. We t a k e pleasure in quoting the following from his excellent address: The sole.object of Masonry, whose roots reach far back into the misty traditions of the past, with its devotion to truth, with its light of experience, with its splendid heritage of men and measures, is to aid man in solving the problems of life and in attaining to the glorious crown of manhood. The Entered Apprentice is taught that Masonry is founded upon a firm belief in a personal GOD, that no man is prepared to enter upon any important undertaking unless he has sought strength and wisdom from Above. A Fellow Craft is taught that'Masonry is a progressive science, and it is his duty as well as his privilege to devote himself to mental and moral developments. The Master Mason Is taught by one of the sublimest dramas known to man, that he is never to violate his integrity, not even though violent death be the sacrifice that loyalty lays upon the altar of truth and honor. Thus, you see, brethren, that all degrees of Masonry are designed to teach moderation, self control, fortitude and justice—the cardinal virtues. The practice of universal benevolence and broad-minded toleration, love t o man a nd faith in GOD—the Supreme Architect of the Universe—are the fundamental elements of worthy manhood. We have no hesitation in conceding that our principles are more spotless than our practices, and our doctrines purer than our lives. A person requires little observation to be convinced that a system, and its professors are frequently a t variance and that the conduct of the one furnishes an inaccurate standard by which to appreciate the merits of the other. The abuse of a thing is no valid objection to its inherent goodness. Even the benign religion of the Prince of Peace has been made the unwilling instrument of the greatest enormities that have stained the pages of history. However, a large number of virtuous and illustrious men who are performing their parts with applause on the great theatre of life are living witnesses of our purity and uprightness. Such are the effects of our society, such the illustration of its principles, that the mild spirit of toleration which it breathes is more precious when contrasted with the intolerance and bigotry which have been so imiversally. prevalent in the world. The salary of the Grand Secretary was placed at $300.00 per annum. The Committee on Grand Master's address makes reference t o the Grand Master's visitations, stating that he had officially attended all lodges in that jurisdiction.
1924-25.
CoBBESPONDENCE—QUEBEC.
Ill
The incoming Grand Master was requested to make all necessary arrangements to fittingly celebrate the Semi-Centennial of the inauguration of their Grand Lodge. WILLIAM C . LAWSON, M.-.W.-. Grand Master, Alberton. ERNEST KBMT, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Charlottetown.
Next Annual, Charlottetown, June 24, 1925.
QUEBEC —1924. Lodges, 79; members, 13,206; net gain, 529. Montreal, February 13, 1924.
ALLAN P. SHATFORD, M.-. W.'.
Grand Master. • M.-.W.'. Brother E. A. EvANS, the Grand Representative of Kansas, was present. .They were honored at this Communication with the presence of several distinguished brethren—M.".W.\ Brother C. A. DURAND, Grand Master of Michigan and Past Grand Master M.\W.\Brother W. M. PERRETT of the same jurisdiction, and Deputy Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Canada in Ontario, R.-. W.-. Brother JOHN A. ROWLAND. We note from the Grand Master's address that four of their Past District Deputy Grand Masters passed away during the year. This as indicated by the Grand Master, was unusual in the history of their jurisdiction. During the year a number of visits were made, both in the line of duty in performing some ceremony, or making a formal visit. We note, however, one particular occasion in which the Grand Master ' visited his old Grand Lodge—that of Nova Scotia. On this occasion he was extended a very hearty welcome and had the pleasure of addressing the Grand Lodge, after which he was presented with the "Erasmus James Phillips Medal," an honor conferred by the Nova Scotia Lodge of Research for meritorious services rendered. We feel that this honor was worthily bestowed on M.'. W.'. Brother ALLAN P. SHATFORD.
Concerning "regalia" we quote the following under that head: The second thing concerns the wearing of regalia a t social functions. There are, of course, times when this is advisable and helpful, b u t I am inclined to think that It is overdone. The parade of Masonic insignia is a very delicate matter and to be indulged in on rare occasions. We are apt to cheapen the Order by too frequent an exhibition of our uniform. There are occasions when the soldier ought to appear in regimentals but he would not heighten the dignity of his calling if he wore his uniform on every conceivable opportunity. Let us remember that our regalia is not for drawing attention to ourselves, but for setting forth the teaching of the Order. I t is symbolic, and as the meaning of the symbol is hidden from the profane, where Is the advantage of our constant exhibition of signs and jewels?
During the year he traveled more than seven thousand miles, made twenty-five official visits and conducted ten divine services. A remarkable record, indeed.
112
CORRESPONDENCE—QUEBEC.
February,
While our space is s u b j e c t e d t o an unbiased d i s t r i b u t i o n a m o n g t h e v a r i o u s G r a n d Lodges included in this report, we c a n n o t refrain from q u o t i n g t h e following from t h e subject of " Masonic K n o w l e d g e : " I bid you turn for a moment or two, my brethren, to contemplate some of the deeper things of Masonry. This past year has urged me to the profounder study of our Order. I have dug into the fields of history and philosophy and came away bearing in my hands priceless treasures. For the most part I fear we are content with but a surface knowledge. The gems of life are not found scattered on the roadside—we must plunge deep and bore wide if we desire the precious things. A study of Masonry repays you in golden rewards. There is no more inexhaustible mine in all the universe of thought and experience. Our Order throws her net far that she may gather in a multitude of Inspirations and pour them at the feet of her members. I am anxious to urge upon you all a closer scrutiny of her mysteries, a more intense research into the sources of her being. Perhaps when our new Temple is completed we will bo able to set up our long-hoped-for library where the brethren may go and feed their souls out of the great granary. But until that happens might we not devise a scheme whereby the members of a lodge may become versed in the M asonic lore? Already one of our lodges, "Westmount No. 76, has established a study club, a kind ot research committee whose object is the illumination of individual members. That is to be most heartily commended. There is another-way thatsuggests itself to my mind and I offer it for what it may be worth. The subordinate lodge might make a present to each candidate, on his becoming a Master Mason, of some authorized book on Masonry. There are so many excellent treatises available that choice would be an easy matter. This has been practiced in certain Grand Jurisdictions with niost splendid results. "We must all admit our need of enlightenment on the many subjects which Masonry introduces to us. I believe that an informed Masonry is one of our most pressing needs. Of this I feel certain, that a deeper knowledge of Masonry would enkindle a fresh enthusiasm, increase devotion and completely dry up the leakage in our meniueisUip. I oiTer you this out of a fairly fuii experience, that my more Intimate study of Masonry has confirmed my faith beyond the chance of unsettlement that this our Order embraces the very finest philosophy of life and the most fascinating study in literature. T h e writer feels q u i t e certain t h a t .the readers of t h i s r e p o r t , a t least in our own G r a n d Jurisdiction, will enjoy r e a d i n g t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s r e m a r k s u n d e r t h e h e a d of " M a s o n i c C h a r i t y , " a n d we q u o t e t h e m in full, as follows: Sometimes I go apart and make inquiry with myself as to whether I have comprehended the meaning of Charity. I come out of that examination-room with grave misgivings. Are we really understanding the deeper aspects of our distingulslilng characteristic? Is charity so poor a thing as the miserable doles that we so grudgingly administer to our unfortunate brethren? Can we look at the sums voted for benevolence and contrast them with the amounts expended on the Foiu-th Degree without a sting of conscience? Has Masonry developed into self-seeking and forgotten her primary and essential character? It is with a grave sense of responsibility that I urge this matter upon your attention. I yield to no man in my love of social fellowships—my heart grows mellow and warm under the gracious touch of the banquet hall. But I am often ashamed when I hear the Treasurer's statement or listen once again to that compelling lecture on "Charity." Is it always necessary to have the Fourth Degree? May we not now and again sit down to a frugal fare and vote the balance to the aid of a needy brother? No one doubts the joy of entertaining guests— there are few virtues so sweet in exercise as hospitality. But do we not become sometimes a bit embarrassed, not to say annoyed, when we witness the same list of visitors crowding all the supper tables? This matter is so delicate that
1924-25.
CoBBESPONDENCE—QUEBEC.
113
one fears he may injure the very cause he would help but he dare hot be silent on that account. It has become a by-word in certain places that the visitors alm.ost outnumber the hosts. Is this what we mean by the exercise of Charity? My brethren, these things ought not so to be! In order that my point may be made Abundantly clear I force home this question, would you honestly like to have the general public see your balance sheet, with its tens of dollars for charity and Its hundreds for the Junior Warden's accoimt? There is, however, a deeper charity than even this. We have only skirted the outer borders of this spacious word when we confine it to material things. I t is the mental and spiritual interpretation which is the heart of the virtue. No man is truly charitable until he gives himself—liis thought, his sympathy, his aspirations, his character. " T h e gift without the giver is bare." A man may part with his money and surrender nothing of liimself. The coin tossed to the beggar is unworthy of the name of Charity. I t is when our material possession is accompanied by our thoughtfulness. our interest, our personal sympathy, that it becomes radiant and life-giving. Understanding is more valuable than the mines of ICimberley. Sympathy is more precious than raiment of gold. We talk smoothly and glibly of our "brothers," but what is it to be a real brother to a man? It is something more than the possession of common words and tokens, a deeper thing than outward membersliip in the same order. I t is a mutual sympathy, an exchange of thoughts and ideals, a correspondence in character. Charity makes all these things possible—it is the golden key that unlocks the doors and admits us into the inner sanctuary of the soul. It removes prejudice from the mind and creates a tolerance of other men's opinions. I t knows nothing of barriers, it mocks at separating walls and overleaps dividing fences. In every man it finds sometiiing admirable. Charity is the clear vision which enables a man to see his own weaknesses and compels his compassion for others who make mistakes like unto his own. I t cures all self-despisings, because love knows that there is a somctlilng divine and immortal within. Masonry stresses the high and imi^erishablo part of man and teaches him to discover a similar quality in others. The whole of Masonry is summed up in one divine, radiant word called " C h a r i t y " which is only another way of pronouncing " L o v e . " The world stands sorely in need of it today. When the nations seem ringed with hate, mistrust, greed, sclflslmess, we ought to proclaim with insistent voice and abundant life tiiis crowning, conquering, captivating grace of Charity. Only let us be sure that we give It the full-orbed significance that I have so imperfectly tried to image for you. T h e G r a n d S e c r e t a r y s u b m i t s a very interesting r e p o r t , including a s u m m a r y of their m e m b e r s h i p . H e talces a v e r y philosophical view of t h e increase in m e m b e r s h i p , as expressed in t h e following few w o r d s : The figures I submit will show that as compared with last year we have apparently reached a normal condition which we hope wiU continue. This condition seems to bo refiected In all jurisdictions on this continent and the high water mark immediately following the war has given place to a steady but substantial growth. T h e R e p o r t on Correspondence was p r e p a r e d b y t h e i r M . \ W . ' . B r o t h e r E . T . D . C H A M B E R S , P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r . This review was t h e t h i r t y - s e v e n t h p r e p a r e d b y this distinguished b r o t h e r , a n d j u d g i n g from p a s t experience we believe he is i m p r o v i n g .with age. W e t a k e p l e a s u r e in q u o t i n g t h e following from his preface t o t h e r e p o r t : When, as a very young Mason, he first became appreciative of the value of the Information contained in the Correspondence Reports of Sister Grand Lodges, now some forty-flve years ago, the majority of them outside of those of DRDMMOND of Maine and VAUX of Pennsylvania, and a few others, were little
114
COBBESPONDENCE—QUEENSLAND.
February,
more than bare references to what was going on in other jurisdictions. Comments, meagre a t first, lengthened and mtiltiplled, and soon we had the reports In the form in wlilch they appear today. ••
His reference in the above to Brothers DRUMMOND of Maine and VAUX of Pennsylvania will possibly mean but little to the average reader; however, to the few of us who remain and who had the personal acquaintance of these distinguished brethren it means a great deal. They were indeed stalwarts in Freemasonry. Our 1923 Proceedings are included in his report and we are favored with more than two pages. ALLAN P . SHATFORD, M.-.W.-.Grand Master, Montreal.
W. W. WILLIAMSON, R.'.W.-. Grand Secretary, Montreal. E. T. D . CHAMBERS, P . - . G . - . M . - . , Correspondent, Quebec.
Next Annual, Montreal, February 11, 1925.
QUEENSLAND —1923. Lodges, 319; members, 19,000; net gain, 2,948. A Special Communication was held on May 31, 1922, at which time the Grand Lodge received nominations through their Board of General Purposes, for Grand Lodge Officers for the year 1922-1923. At their Quarterly Communication of June 7, 1922, the Grand OiScers nominated at the previous Communication were, by the Grand Master, declared duly elected. The Grand Master suggests that a special meeting of the Grand Lodge be held for the purpose of adopting a form of ceremonies for the consecration and dedication of a lodge; installing a Master of a lodge; opening and closing a Board of installed Masters; opening and closing a lodge on all degrees; to determine the steps, signs, words and passwords to be used and how they are to be given. This will seem rather queer to our own readers as most of the forms suggested are a part of our Ritual and the remainder in the ceremonies as contained in the Monitor. We quote the following concerning the life membership proposition, which in the opinion of the writer is the growing evil of the day in Masonic circles: Life members coming from Scotland are stiU causing the Board much food for thought. The question that has arisen is whether a brother who has obtained a life privilege a t the expense of from three to five guineas outside the State is entitled t o assistance from the Queensland Benevolent Fund. On the other hand, is such a life member a '*subscribing member" as contemplated in Article 2557 The Board's reply is " N o . "
An amendment to their laws was adopted, providing that the Grand Master could issue his dispensation waiving disability of candidates, providing they could substantially comply with the require-
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—RHODE
ISLAND.
115
ments, whether by natural or artificial means. They also amended their law discouraging the practice of wearing Masonic regalia at funerals; likewise their regulations are amended forbidding the wearing of Masonic emblems outside of a Masonic lodge, except at Masonic functions. The following was adopted, which is somewhat out of the ordinary: I hereby declare that I will be faithful, loyal, and bear true allegiancejto the Sovereign of the British Empire, and I recognize that disloyaltyJ[orJauy breach of this declaration is a serious Masonic offence.
The Board of General Purposes adopted the following, which was approved by the Grand Lodge: The question having been raised in connection with brethren visiting'or attending female (so-called) Masonic bodies, wlilch are all Irregular, the Board desire to emphasize its deprecation of such action, and t o remind Brethren t h a t such visitation or association renders them liable toexclusion fropi the Craft. The wearing of Masonic jewels was considered by the Board, when it was decided that the jewel of a Marls Master or Royal Arch, or any higher degree cannot be worn in a Craft Lodge.
In concluding this review might we suggest to the Grand Secretary, Brother C. H. HARLBY, that he print on the outside back cover t h e
name and address of the Grand Master and Grand Secretary as a matter of immediate reference, and particularly for the information of the writers of the Reports on Correspondence. CHARLES STXJMM, M . - . W . - . Grand Master. CHARLES H . HARLEY, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Brisbane.
RHODE ISLAND —1924. Lodges, 42; members, 17,032; net gain, 775. Providence, May 19, 1924.
ARTHUR G . NEWELL, M . ' . W . ' . Grand
Master. Brother
R JOHN
R . DENNIS,
our
Grand
Representative,
was
present. We quote the following amendments to their laws, which were adopted at their Semi-Annual Communication held on November 19, 1923, which no doubt will be interesting to our own readers, and especially the Secretaries of lodges: Each subordinate lodge shall deposit in the office of the Grand Secretary, on or before the fifth day of May in each year, a return, made up to an including April 30th next preceding, signed by the Master and Secretary, under the Seal of said lodge, containing a list of the ofHcers of said lodge, the date of their election and installation, with the name of the instalUng officer, the number of regular and special communications held since the last return, the names of all persons Initiated, passed, raised, or admitted to membership, with each date thereof; the names of those admitted holding dual membership, with the date thereof; the names of all candidates rejected, members dimitted, suspended or expelled and the names of all applicants for whom release of jurisdiction has been requested and refused, with the name oi' the lodge making the request with the
116
COBBESPONDENCE—SCOTLAND.
February,
dates thereof; of all members deceased, with their age and date of death; and of all Masons buried by the lodge, with the date of the funeral; and, when re'juired, the names, address and occupation of all the members of the lodge as far as the same may be known. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r , in p r e s e n t i n g h i s address, a m o n g other t h i n g s h a s t h e following t o s a y : One year filled t o the brim and overflowing with activities incidental to the office. One year of responsibility and attention which has made the days and months pass quickly. The sacredness of the confidence reposed in me one year ago was overwhelming. I have fulfilled the duties of the office to the best of my ability and now present for your consideration an account of my acts, activities, and aims during the past year. H e h a d t h e pleasure of a t t e n d i n g t h e One H u n d r e d Twenty-fifth A n n i v e r s a r y of their M t . V e r n o n L o d g e N o . 4; likewise t h e O n e H u n d r e d t h Anniversary of T e m p l e L o d g e N o . 18. H e r e p o r t s t h a t t h e records in t h e h a n d s of t h e G r a n d Secretary r e l a t i v e t o m e m b e r s h i p do n o t include t h o s e m e m b e r s w h o hold d u a l m e m b e r s h i p in other bodies, a n d fears t h a t t h i s condition will e v e n t u a l l y l e a d t o m u c h t r o u b l e . T h e writer is u n a b l e t o imagine j u s t how m u c h t r o u b l e i t will cause, b u t one t h i n g is c e r t a i n , in t h e course of a.few y e a r s i t will be absolutely impossible t o tell h o w m a n y m e m b e r s a r e a c t u a l l y on t h e rolls. Referring t o t h e so-called " C o n f e r e n c e of G r a n d - M a s t e r s , " h e concludes w i t h t h e following: A faint suspicion was present relative to the formation of a General Grand Lodee. Thi.w .siisrilcion was yf>rv mjjcklj^ dispelled by Gmnd Ma,stGr FI^JI-EY and it was the consensus of opinion that such a gathering would be of very great.help t o the Grand Masters because of the fact that conditions existing elsewhere might be had first hand and it was decided that a conference of a similar character should be called annually. N o t w i t h s t a n d i n g such c o m m e n t s , t h e good b r e t h r e n a t t e n d i n g such m e e t i n g s insist t h a t t h e r e is n o t t h e slightest disposition t o establish a Supreme Grand Lodge. T h e r e is no R e p o r t on C o r r e s p o n d e n c e . H E N R Y C . DEXTER, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Pawtucket. S. P E N R O S E W I L L I A M S , R . - . W . - . G r a n d S e c r e t a r y , P r o v i d e n c e .
SCOTLAND —1923. Lodges, 877; m e m b e r s , 260,000; n e t gain, 166,237. E d i n b u r g h , N o v e m b e r 1, 1923. T h e R t . H o n . T H E E A R L OF E L G I N AND K I N C A R D I N E , M .-. W.'. G r a n d M a s er.
An application w a s received a t t h i s C o m m u n i c a t i o n from their lodge a t Yokohoma, J a p a n , for a d u p l i c a t e c h a r t e r a s t h e original a n d all p r o p e r t y of t h e L o d g e h a d b e e n lost in t h e e a r t h q u a k e . T h e G r a n d Master in a c c e p t i n g t h e office for t h e t h i r d t i m e , exp r e s s e d his appreciation in v e r y a p p r o p r i a t e t e r m s a n d concluded his
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—SCOTLAND.
117
remarks with the statement that he would make a formal motion t h a t His Royal Highness T H E PRINCE OF WALES shouid be appointed an
honorary member of their Grand Lodge. In making this statement he called attention to the fact that this was made possible only through a certain amount of correspondence, and. with the consent of His Royal Highness himself. Referring to the Grand Lodge of Panama the following appears in their transactions: A letter, dated 25th October, 1923, was submitted from the Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of England, stating that a t their meeting In December, a resolution would be submitted to the effect that recognition be accorded to the Grand Lodge of Panama, but that before this was done the Grand Lodge of Scotland should be communicated with, and in the event of the Grand Lodge of Scotland being of opinion that recognition be not accorded, the Grand Lodge of Scotland should state on what grounds their opinion was based. From knowledge of the facts, it was agreed to recommend to Grand Committee that recognition be accorded to the Grand Lodge of Panama, subject to the safeguarding of the rights of the Lodges in Panama under the Scottish Constitution.. The Rt. Hon. T H E EARL OP ELGIN, C . M . G., M.-. W.-. Grand
Master. DAVID REID, J. P., R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Edinburgh.
SCOTLAND —1924. A Quarterly Communication was held at Edinburgh, May 1, 1924, The Grand Master reported that on the previous day he had the pleasure of attending the Annual .Communication and Festival of the United Grand Lodge of England. Their committee on Foreign and Colonial Lodges stated that they had received a letter from the Grand Secretary of the United Grand Lodge of England asking whether the Grand Lodge of Scotland had any comments to make on a recommendation of the Grand Lodge of England in extending fraternal recognition to the Grand Lodges of Venezuela, San Salvador and Guatemala. They were informed that there were no objections on the part of the Grand Lodge of Scotland. We mention the above as the procedure is unusual and a never-heard of practice in this country. The Rt. Hon. T H E EARL OF ELGIN, C . M . G . , M.-. W.-. Grand
Master. DAVID REID, J. P., R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Edinburgh.
118
CORRESPONDENCE—SOUTH
CAROLINA.
February,
SOUTH AUSTRALIA —1924. L o d g e s , 112; m e m b e r s , 11,051; n e t gain, 758. I n opening this v o l u m e of t h e i r Proceedings we find a likeness of t h e M a s o n i c T e m p l e in Adelaide. T h e a r c h i t e c t u r e is indeed u n u s u a l a n d t o t h e w r i t e r i t s t a n d s o u t a s a d i s t i n c t l y u n i q u e a n d beautiful building. I- • A Half-Yearly C o m m u n i c a t i o n w a s held in Adelaide, October 17, 1923. I t i s noted t h a t £1,500 w a s transferred from their General F u n d to],the M a s o n i c Hall F u n d . N o t h i n g o u t of t h e ordinary was t r a n s a c t e d a t t h e several C o m m u n i c a t i o n s held d u r i n g t h e year. 'f i I n t h e Report o n C o r r e s p o n d e n c e we find a brief b u t interesting reference t o o u r 1923 Proceedings. Justice THOMAS SLANBY P O O L E , M . - . W . - . G r a n d Master, Adelaide. C H A R L E S R . J. G L O V E R , R . - . W . - . G r a n d Secretary, Adelaide.
SOUTH CAROLINA—1924. L o d g e s , 2 8 5 ; m e m b e r s , 28,717; n e t gain, 580. Charleston,
March
12,
1924.
J. CAMPBELL BISSEL, M . - . W . ' .
•Grand M a s t e r . "-" W e a g a i n note t h e absence of our G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e , w h o m w e :assume h a s become indifferent a n d does n o t a t t e n d t h e G r a n d Lodge -as h e h a s n o t been p r e s e n t , according t o their Proceedings, for several y e a r s , iiOtwitLstandiiig h e jesiues in Charleston, p-~^ T h e G r a n d Master s u b m i t t e d a brief b u t interesting address a n d •from t h e preface we t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following: This One Hundred and Eighty-seventh Annual Communication of t h e •Grand Lodge assembles in a year which will go down as one of the most imiportant in t h e history of the World. We are living in a time of new thought, • of new opportunity, of new inspiration. We are standing in the daybreak • of what promises to be a new age in which men will come to see each other and 'to understand each other in a clearer light and to know that the most glorious •of all things is HUMAN SERVICE and that the greatest of all strength is •the S T R E N G T H OF UNITY. Not in all the wondrous years in. the exalted history of Masonry have men needed more to think and to live and labor in full and complete realization of man's duty t o man and of man's duty to his country and to his GOD. Likewise, under t h e h e a d of " S t a t e of t h e Craft," t h e following few words a r e w o r t h y of p e r u s a l : Let me plead with you, brethren of the Grand Lodge, to make this year the most notable in the history of Masonic achievement in this commonwealth. " L e t your light so shine before men that they may see.your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven." I n the spirit of this truth of Holy Writ we Masons must work. We must realize that om' duty first of aU is to GOD, by whose divine power we Uve and move, and have our being, and whose power is the strength that sustains us in every effort of our lives. Next to our jjuty to our GOD, our duty is to our State and our country.
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—SOUTH
CAROLINA.
119
Under their amended Section 82 of the Laws, the Grand Lodge is to receive $1.00 annually from every member borne on the rolls, and $1.00 for each degree conferred. Just before Grand Lodge closed the retiring Grand Master was presented with a silver service. In accepting the gift he expressed his appreciation in the following words: I want to express my deep appreciation of this gift, and to assure you that though my labors may have ceased as your presiding ofHcer, my zeal and interest in Masonry shall ever grow, and as from the time that I was made a Master Mason until now, I hope in the futiu'e years that wherever and whenever the call for service comes you will not find me wanting. I thank you. Brethren; GOD bless you and keep you. The Report on Correspondence was again prepared by M.'. W.'. Brother JAMES L . MICHIE, and as usual he briefly but thoroughly covers all the important matters which came before the several Grand Lodges whose Proceedings he reviewed. I t was not the intention of the writer to offer any comments in regard to what was said by the writers of the Reports on Correspondence concerning the KansasNew Hampshire matter, but in this case we cannot refrain from making an attempt at least to correct Brother MICHIE, as he has the question at issue entirely reversed. He quotes the following words from the Special Report of the Conimittee on Correspondence before the Grand Lodge of Kansas two years ago: Our Grand Lodge has, without exception, conceded to all other Grand Lodges the right to Indicate whatever form of documentary evidence they deemed best. He then comments as follows: This being so, why does Kansas find fault with New Hampshire for exercising that right? New Hampshire should be the sole judge of her own Laws and they should be respected by Kansas. ^v Kansas, as indicated above, absolutely grants to each and every other Grand Lodge the right to use whatever form of documentary evidence they desire, whether it be a certificate, diploma, receipt for dues, or anything else, and all such forms have been and are now accepted when presented by brethren from other Grand Jurisdictions in visiting lodges in Kansas. There is not the slightest question raised by the Grand Lodge of Kansas as to the right of New Hampshire or any other Grand Lodge to establish its own form of documentary evidence, but we maintain that we are entitled to the same consideration from other Grand Lodges as we accord to them under like circumstances. CHARLES K . CHREITZBERG, M.-.W.-. Grand Master, Rock Hill. O. FRANK HART, R . ' . W . ' . Grand Secretary, Columbia. JAMES L . MICHIE, P . ' . G . ' . M . - . , Correspondent, Darlington.
Next Annual, Charleston, March 11, 1925.
120
COBBESPONDENCE—SOUTH
DAKOTA.
February,
SOUTH DAKOTA —1924. Lodges, 168; members, 18,965; net gain, 462. Deadwood, June 10, 1924. ROBERT S . LOCKHART, M . - . W . . G r a n d Master. This volume of Proceedings is embellished with a halftone of the Grand Lodge when laying the corner-stone of their new Grand Lodge Library. We will watch with interest the progress on this building, and'sincerely hope t h a t GEORGE may be spared to them for many years to come in order that he may enjoy this building when completed. We regret that our Grand Representative was not in attendance at this Communication. We quote the following few words of interest from the preface to the Grand Master's address: Masonry Is a union of all unions—an association of men bound together In their struggle t o attain all that is noble, who love and practice virtue for its own sake, who believe in the Fatherhood of GOD and the brotherhood of man. W e n o t e t h e y h a v e their s h a r e of t r o u b l e b y b r e t h r e n using t h e F r a t e r n i t y for commercial purposes, as indicated in t h e following u n d e r t h e h e a d of " U s i n g M a s o n i c T e r m s for A d v e r t i s i n g P u r p o s e s : " I received a business card bearing Masonic emblems or terms used by a brother in business for advertising purposes. I at once wrote to the Worshipful Master of t h e lodgn in tbe city in which this card ^.vas issued. He secured from the brother all the cards in his possession and destroyed them and the brother agreed to try and collect all that were out and destroy them. While 1 became satisfied that the brother was not intentionally using his Masonic membership for the purpose of advertising his business, I considered it my duty as Grand Master t o have t h e practice stopped as soon as possible. I received a very. courteous letter from the Worshipful Master stating that the brother felt very sorry that he had used such a card, as it was done thoughtlessly. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r m a d e t h e following r e c o m m e n d a t i o n in r e g a r d t o t r a n s f e r r i n g their G r a n d C h a r i t y P e r m a n e n t F u n d t o t h e i r B u i l d i n g Fund: The Grand Lodge has in the Grand Charity Permanent Fund S32,O00jof United States bonds, and I recommend that the Trustees be authorized t o sell and dispose of the same and to place the proceeds in the building fund of the Grand Lodge library building. That for such time as the fund derived from the sale of said bonds shall be held in the building fund, the Grand Lodge appropriate from the General Fund to be transferred to the Ternporary Charity Fund an amount equal to the Interest now received on said bonds, and replace In the Permanent Charity Fund the amount of such bonds as shall be used imder such authority out of the General Fund or out of such Special Fund as shall be raised for the purpose of erecting the library building. With no disposition to either criticise the action of their Grand Lodge or suggest what is best to do in a matter of this kind, we are of the opinion t h a t our own Grand Lodge pursued a better plan in assess-
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—TASMANIA.
•
121
ing the membership two dollars each to cover the cost of our Grand Lodge Building. During the deliberations of the Grand Lodge a recess was taken for the purpose of formally receiving the Grand Officers of the Order of the Eastern Star. Brother CHARLES L . BROCKWAY again presents the Report on
Correspondence and includes with it a review of our 1923 and 1924 Proceedings. FREDERICK TREON, M.-.W.'.Grand Master, Chamberlain. . GEORGE A. PETTIGREW, R . - . W . ' . Grand Secretary, Sioux Falls. CHARLES L . BROCKWAY, Correspondent, Sioux Falls.
Next Annual, Sioux Falls, June 9, 1925.
TASMANIA —1923. Lodges, 38; members, 3,112; net gain, 285. At the Special Communication of August 25, 1923, the following resolution was unanimously adopted: Should the regular meeting of a lodge fall on Christmas Day, Good Friday, or a Public Holiday, or there be other good and sufflcient cause, the meeting may be held upon any day within seven days before or after the regular day at the discretion of the Master, which day shall for all purposes be deemed the regular day of meeting.
At the Half-Yearly Communication August 25, 1923, the following amendment to their regulations was presented: The Master of every lodge in which a candidate for initiation or affiliation has been rejected, or, after being proposed, has been withdrawn, shall Immediately send notice to the Grand Secretary, who shall keep a record thereof for the Information of lodges and brethren, and every lodge on the receipt of a nomination for initiation or affiliation, shall forward the name of such nominee to the Grand Secretary, who shall inform the said lodge if the person named has been rejected by, or withdrawn from, any other lodge.
This plan is practiced by some of our own jurisdictions, but in view of the carelessness of many Secretaries we doubt the practicability of the custom. The Grand Master, through his address, announced the passing away of M.-.W.-. Brother R. J. SADLER. He states in his address that he had the honor of representing his Grand Lodge for the second time at the installation of His Excellency T H E EARL OF STRADBROKE as Grand Master of the United Grand
Lodge of Victoria, where he was received in keeping with his rank, and extended hospitality on the part of the Grand Lodge. •
122
COBBESPONDENCE—TASMANIA.
February,
We quote the following from the Grand Master's address: I thought that possibly this year it would have been desirable to make a change in the personnel of the Grand Master, but the many nominations on my behalf, received from various parts of the jurisdiction, induced me to lay aside any personal feelings I had on the subject, and again talie up the reins of ofBce, and I can assure you that such confidence on your part will stimulate me t o put forth every effort to worthily uphold the dignity of the office while promulgating to the utmost of my power the principles and tenets of the Order. We are judged by our fellowmen by the extent by which we practice such principles, and t h e influence and effectiveness of Freemasonry do not depend so much upon its rules and its traditions as upon its conformity to the standard which others impose, such standard being the precepts of the Institution which this Grand Lodge asserts to be its foundation. He likewise refers to their Grand HAMILTON, in the following words:
Secretary, Brother
JOHN
Our Grand Secretary, now in his ninetieth year, still takes a deep Interest in the doings of our Grand Lodge, and our hope is that he may still be spared for years to come to aid us in the promotion of those principles of our Order which we see so well exemplifled in his life and character. We note our Grand Representative was not present at this Communication. HENRY L . D ' E M D E N , M . \ W . ' . G r a n d Master., W. H. STRUTT, R . \ W . \ Grand.Secretary, Hobart.
TASMANIA —1924. Lodges, 38; members, 3,215; net gain, 103. Half-Yearly Communication held at Hobart, August 23, 1924. HENRY L . D ' E M D E N , M . - . W . - . Grand Master. We first note that a Special Communication was held for the purpose of dedicating a Masonic Temple and from the oration we take pleasure in quoting the following: The first fact which must arrest the attention of the most recent initiate Is the realization of the presence of GOD. He learns to think of Him not as some undeflnable, mysterious Being, Who exists apart from mankind altogether, but as man's maker, as the Creator and Architect of this marvelously designed universe, wlio, having made man, is conscious of every need of his; and so in this Temple you will pour forth your hearts to Him in prayer, you will acknowledge your duty to Him, you will take the most solemn obligations in His presence and swear by His All Holy name that you will keep them; and why? Freemasonry requires a belief In GOD and in the immortality of the soul for admission to its ranks, for the man who holds that there Is no Creating Spirit that moved upon the wide empire of night and chaos, and no voice that said " L e t there be light," is not to be trusted with the mysteries of Masonry. The law of the land alone prevents such a one from evil. He has no monitor within to hold him t o a performance of Ills vows, or to restrain from the violation ot his pledges. B u t that man who beUeves in GOD has a rudder and an anchor. But if we believe in the Fatherhood' of GOD, we must hold to the other great
1924-25.
COBBESPONDENCE—TASMANIA.
123
correlative truth, the Brotherhood of Man.- We meet on the level because, although there are many things which divide men—nationality, race, class, means, ability, politics, aye, and, sad to relate, even religion—yet these superficial distinctions disappear if men are thought of as the children of the Great Comrhon Father, sprung from the same stock, men who feel the same emotions of joy or sorrow, relief or anxiety, love or aversion. The love of nation, family, and home are the same in all. "One touch of nature makes the whole world kin." Now we state that we believe in Masonry as setting an ideal of brotherhood to the world. Are we trying to carry it out? Ours is a vast and far-reaching society extending through all grades of society throughout the whole world. What a power it should be in making the peoples of t h e world know and under-, stand one another, in disarming suspicion, in allaying animosities, and in bringing in the reign of universal peace, when the vision of the Prophet shall be fulfilled: " They shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation; neither shall they learn war any more," or, as the poet writes:— Till the war-drum throbb'd no longer and the battle flags were furled. In the Parliament of man, the Federation of the World. T h e G r a n d L o d g e extended their heartfelt s y m p a t h y t o t h e rela t i v e s of t h e i r l a t e R.-. W . : B r o t h e r J O H N H A M I L T O N , w h o s e r v e d t h e i r G r a n d L o d g e for t h i r t y y e a r s as G r a n d Secretary. H e w a s indeed a distinguished C r a f t s m a n , as will be n o t e d from t h e following: He said he felt that very few words were needed from him in introducing the motion, because R .•. W.'. Brother HAMILTON was so well known to all, the brethren assembled that he was sure they would all readily join with him in expressions of deep sorrow and regret that their esteemed brother had been removed from their midst. Brother HAMILTON had lived to a ripe old age, and during the whole of his life had set an example that they all might strive to follow. For thirty years their highly esteemed brother had been the Secretary of the Grand Lodge, and for sixty-four years a member of the Craft, and there was no one who had come in contact with him during those long years but had learned to respect and love him. He was the Senior Past Master of the Tasmanian Union Lodge, of which he was also a life member. To liave seen sixty-four years of active service in the Craft was a wonderful record, and all deeply regretted that such a fine man and good Mason had passed out of their ken, whilst his able and valuable services in the interest of Freemasonry would long be remembered by them all. He was sure all of them sincerely sympathized with the bereaved family in the grief which had befallen them, and particularly with Miss HAMILTON, who had not only been an airoctionate daughter, but also. In their late brother's illness, practically his nurse for some time as well. L a t e r on in t h e Proceedings we n o t e t h a t B r o t h e r W. H, S T R U T T was elected a s G r a n d S e c r e t a r y t o fill t h e v a c a n c y caused b y t h e d e a t h of Brother HAMILTON.
We cannot refrain from quoting the following few words from the oration delivered at this Communication: The origin of Freemasonry lies folded in the obscurities of a far past. He has made but superficial research who finds the ultimate sources of our Order rooted in the Guild systems of the Middle Ages, or even in the zenith of Hebrew splendor. Far back in the old civilizations of Egypt. Babylon, India. China, it flourished. Pyramid and pillar, obelisk and tablet bear eloquent testimony to that. Indeed, an adequate study of anthropological science strengthens the conviction that our institution is built up and compacted together of primal laws, instincts, and spiritual and social elements which have
124
CORRESPONDENCE—TENNESSEE.
February.
made men in all ages, of all colors and castes, dream the golden dream of a Brotherhood of Love and Goodwill wide and permanent as the human race. In its ethical and spiritual teachings Freemasonry presents us with a pure and majestic conception and interpretation of life. I t holds that life is Evolutional. By the impact of the Eternal and the urge of the spirit of truth and righteousness, we are ever to "move upward, working out the beast"; or, to use other metaphor, we are " t o leave our low-vaulted p a s t " in thought and feeling, in aspiration and faith, and build more stately mansions for the soul. HENRY L . D ' E M D E N , M.-.W.-.Grand Master. W. H. STRUTT, R.-.W.-.Grand Secretary, Hobart.
TENNESSEE —1924. L o d g e s , 4 7 2 ; m e m b e r s , 45,344; n e t gain, 2,108. N a s h v i l l e , J a n u a r y 30, 1924.
GEORGE L . HARDWICK, M.-. W . ' .
Grand Master. B r o t h e r H A L L U M W . G O O D L O E , our G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e , w a s present. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r h a s t h e following t o , s a y in p r e s e n t i n g his address: It is profoundly gratifying to those of us who cherish the principles and ancient traditions of Freemasonry, that in the midst of this ultra-progressive age of modern thought and action, those honorable institutions which characterize our Fraternity have withstood the ravages of time, and today stand forth in uOiCi relief as sigiiposls that puiiii- ihe way to a higher and better ci^^iization. Centuries have come and gone, empires have risen and fallen, war and pestilence have devastated the land, but those simple principles, rites and ceremonies which have been transmitted from lip to lip, and from Mason to Mason, from the completion of the Temple, have lost none of their appeal to the minds and consciences of men. U n d e r " E n d o w m e n t F u n d , " we find t h e following: We have been for many years accumulating an Endowment Fund. While our Endowment Fund is not large, yet it is at least an asset of which we may well be proud. I have been asked, " D o you think our Endowment Fund will over be large enough to take care of the Home without these assessments and tliis burden?" To this, I promptly replied, " I hope not." The care of children has been the making of many a man. No doubt every man has known a father to pass away and leave a motlier with a young boy the mdln dependence for support of the family. These have become some of our best men and leaders in their community. That we have these w^orthy distressed Masons, widows and orphans makes of us all better men and Masons. Nothing is of so much value as doing good to others. Let us value the burden which we have, and cheerfully undertake our part of it, as it is with us today, leaving something for those who come after us. The Divine Ruler acted wisely for our good when he placed upon us the responsibility for the help of the unfortunates.
Under the subject of "Home," the following words indicate conclusively that our brethren of Tennessee practice what they preach:
1924-25.
CoBBESPONDENCE—TENNESSEE.
125
At the last Comuiunlcatlon of this Body, the Grand Chapter of E. A. M. requested permission to erect an Administration building upon the grounds. This building is nearing completion and will shortly be ready for occupancy. As you now enter the grounds your attention is immediately directed to their Improved condition, evidenced by the construction of concrete walks connecting the several buildings. This was made possible by some generous contributions. Brother E. H. HAEDY, of Chattanooga, acting for the Dixie Portland Cement Co., of which he is President, donated an entire carload of Portland Cement. The N . C. & St. L. E y . Co. provided free transportation for same, the gravel used was furnished without profit by Brother R. t ) . HERBERT, of Nashville, and the work was done principally by our boys. It is a very great pleasure to report this generosity and to assure these benefactors of the profound gratitude of Tennessee Masons and the residents of our Home for these much needed improvements. W e t a k e pleasure likewise in q u o t i n g t h e following u n d e r t h e s a m e subject: In the years past, a corps of teachers has been provided at the expense of Davidson County for the maintenance of a first-class school for the exclusive benefit of the inmates of the Home who are of sfchool age, without cost or expense to the Home. In addition to this co-operation along lines of education, fourteen (14) of our wards have been received into the Davidson County Tuberculosis Hospital, and are being cared for at public expense. I t is a pleasure to make public acknowledgment of these kindnesses and assure those responsible for same of our genuine appreciation. H e r e c o m m e n d s a form of questionnaire t o be used i n connection w i t h petitions for t h e Mysteries of M a s o n r y , which subject w a s r e ferred t o t h e proper c o m m i t t e e , a n d t h e y advised i t s use b y s u b o r d i n a t e lodges, b u t t h a t i t be n o t m a d e compulsory. T h e questions e m b r a c e t h e life h i s t o r y of t h e a p p l i c a n t . U n d e r t h e h e a d of " H i s t o r i c a l C o m m i t t e e , " i t a p p e a r s t h a t a p e r m a n e n t organization was affected t o assemble t h e d a t a necessary t o complete t h e h i s t o r y of F r e e m a s o n r y i n t h e i r jurisdiction, w h i c h d a t e s b a c k m o r e t h a n one h u n d r e d years ago. T h i s action is w o r t h y of i m i t a t i o n on t h e p a r t of other G r a n d Jurisdictions which h a v e n o t done likewise. M.'. W.". B r o t h e r H E N R Y A. C H A M B E R S again s u b m i t t e d t h e R e p o r t on C o r r e s p o n d e n c e . I n t h e preface t o his r e p o r t t h e several G r a n d Lodges a r e i n d i c a t e d u n d e r t h e heading of i m p o r t a n t subjects which came before t h e i r A n n u a l C o m m u n i c a t i o n s . W e notice, however, t h a t in his reference t o t h e D e M o l a y he does n o t include K a n s a s as one of t h e jurisdictions which gave t h i s m a t t e r consideration. Reference is m a d e in his r e p o r t t o our 1923 Proceedings. H O W E L L E . JACKSON, M . \ W . " . G r a n d Master, Nashville. STITH M . CAIN, R . ' . W . - . Grand Secretary, Nashville. H E N R Y A. C H A M B E R S , P . - . G . - . M . " . , C o r r e s p o n d e n t , C h a t t a n o o g a .
N e x t A n n u a l , - N a s h v i l l e , J a n u a r y 28, 1925.
126
COBBESPONDENCE—TEXAS.
February,
TEXAS —1923. Lodges, 961; members, 129,391; net gain, 5,387. A Special Communication was held on December 14, 1922, at Brownwood, for the purpose of holding the burial service over the remains of their Past Grand Master T. C. YANTIS. They were likewise called upon to hold a Special Communication in Athens for the same purpose, account of the death of their Past Grand Master ALBERT BACON WATKINS. On March 4, 1923, they were called upon to lay away the remains of their Past Grand Master WILLIAM JAMES, in the city of Cleburne. At the Annual Communication held at Waco on Decemberj4, 1923, we notice that our Grand Representative, Brother WILLIAM CLARK, was present.
In the opening exercises they extended Honors to all brethren who have been members of the Fraternity for fifty years or more. It must have been quite interesting as we notice that the applause was unrestrained as each old brother announced the number of years he had been a worker in the quarries. They then followed this with the brethren who had been members less than fifty years, down to and including those who have been connected with some lodge for forty years. The address of the Grand Master is possibly one of the longest the •writer of this report has ever reviewed, containing ninety-three pages. Having reviewed thijs report it is evident that M.'.W.'.Brother THOMAS was a devoted Grand Master, and certainly had the interests of the Craft at heart. We take pleasure in quoting the following few words from his introduction: I have devoted my time endeavoring to eradicate dlssention and to restore peace and harmony where it did not prevail. How successful I have been remains to be determined by events in the future. I wish to state here that I am impressed by the evident fact that practically all of the trouble that has arisen in Masonry during the past few years has been caused by only about five per cent of our membership, and t h a t the remaining ninety-five per cent are willing to devote their energies to constructive work a;t the encouragement of proper leadership.
Of the several efforts put forth by the Grand Master in the interests of humanity in general, we note one in which he suggests to the lodges the raising of funds for public charity and in a communication addressed to the lodges on this subject, he outlines a splendid plan which contemplates that these offerings be made by the individual members and not from the lodge treasury. He has the following to say in regard to the result of his communication on this subject: I was very agreeably surprised at the enthusiasm with which this work was taken up. Responses from all over the State indicated that hundreds of the lodges were adopting the idea and energetically putting it into action either by the
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—TEXAS.
127
plan suggested or by better methods. Where I had expected perhaps only the stronger lodges to favor the idea, letters poured into my oiHce from all over the State, and although I did not survey the results, it was very apparent to me that a majority of our lodges were glad to follow the idea, and I am confident that practically all of the lodges in Texas which were able to do so, either adopted this plan or a similar one for the same purpose.
Under the subject of "Cipher Codes" he has the following to say: Many Grand Jurisdictions are now authorizing the use of such codes, and they may be easily procured from many sources, and the question arises In my mind if it is worth while to adopt such strenuous opposition to the use. At any rate if this Grand Lodge is to continue its present attitude toward the use of codes, it must adopt some more forcible method of enlightenment along this as well as other lines, or the experience of the several immediate, as well as several not so recent. Past Grand Masters will continue to repeat itself.
The jurisdiction represented by the writer of this report has what we term an "Official Cipher," promulgated twenty years ago, and we positively know that not a single copy of our Cipher has ever fallen into the hands of any one except the officers of our lodges. Our regulations are so strict that not even the Grand Master himself is entitled to a copy. Each lodge was made to understand that four copies only would be furnished, and that in case of the loss of any a penalty of twenty dollars would be imposed and no additional copy furnished. These books are receipted for annually by the Master and in addition the District Deputy Grand Master, on the occasion of his official visit annually, requires that these books shall be placed in his hands for examination. If any are not so turned over to him they must be sent to the Grand Secretary in order that full knowledge may be had of the lodge being in possession of their copies. The Grand Master was asked to sanction or endorse the several masonic clubs in their jurisdiction. After giving the matter mature thought he decided that there was no Masonic prohibition. We take it from this that he was not averse to the proposition. In this connection he was also asked whether a lodge could sponsor a base ball team, composed of Masons entirely. To this he answered in the negative, stating that the individual members could lend assistance if they so desired. Under " Questions and Answers," and in order to show that there is absolutely no limit in asking fool questions of a Grand Master, we submit the following, and the Grand Master's reply thereto, as an example: Should the lodge talfe action toward filing charges against a memberwho had married a Master Mason's daughter, and to whom a baby was born in four and one-half months, there being no complaint from the father of the wife, or any of the family? Answer: I t appearing that the yoimg man had done all possible for him to do to correct his mistake and all parties involved being satisfied, the lodge should not concern itself with something that had not become the business of the lodge.
128
CORRESPONDENCE—TEXAS.
February,
While the following is somewhat of a digression from the general trend of a Grand Master's address, yet it is possessed of the spirit of patriotism and we take pleasure in quoting it: . The progress of mankind has talien from our country much of i h e natural beauty it once enjoyed. Where t h e United States once abounded in beautiful trees, great areas have been given over to agriculture, and the country is barren of natural beauty. Why could not Masons, at the same time their energies are being exerted to the betterment of mankind, and the protection of future generations, improve the scenic phase as well as the moral? What bettor method of commemorating the Masonic birthday of the Father of our country. Brother GEOKGE WASHINGTON, than the planting of a tree? While this date is a bit early, another date could be accepted for the same purpose and we could hand to future generations of Masons monuments of beauty to the fruits and the benefits we have received.
Brother PEARSON, their Grand Secretary, presents his usual complete report, covering the more important matters which came to him during the year. He states that he believes the annual reporf;s of the lodges are the best he has ever seen since being Grand Secretary. For the benefit of the members of his Grand Lodge the writer ventures to say that this condition is undoubtedly the result of the untiring efforts of their Grand Secretary. The Grand Lodge was entertained by the children of the Masonic Home, consisting of an opera given by the little ones, assisted by the girls' orchestra. It was no doubt an interesting entertainment. The report of the Directors of the Masoiiic Home covers thirtythree pages of the Proceedings, and it certainly might be used in other Grand Jurisdictions as a copy for an absolutely complete report concerning this institution in every particular. We only regret that space will not permit of reproducing at least a portion of it. The total cost of maintenance, including some improvements on the buildings and grounds, not amounting to a very great deal, was $306,021.17. Kansas is contributing an equal amount, proportionate with its membership, and yet our Supreme Court has ruled that the Masonic Fraternity does not come within the provisions of the Statutes which exempts educational, benevolent, religious and scientific organizations. The Report on Correspondence was prepared by M.'.W.'.Brother S. M. BRADLEY. AS an introduction to his report he.submits what he terms " A Survey of the Several Masonic Homes Maintained by Grand Lodges in the United States." If his table showing the amount of land owned, assets, residents, annual cost and those provided for since its establishment is as correct throughout as that relating to Kansas it can be relied upon as absolutely correct in every particular. His review of the several jurisdictions is interesting throughout and we are under obligations for more than two pages of the report. G u s A. BRANDT, M . - . W . \ G r a n d Master, Houston. WILLIAM B . PEARSON, R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary, Waco. S. M. BRADLEY, P.-. G.-. M . - . , Correspondent, Denton.
Next Annual, Waco, December 3, 1924.
1924-25.
COBBESPONDENCE^UTAH.
129
UTAH —1924. Lodges, 24; members, 4,502; net gain, 181. Salt Lake City, January 15, 1924.
L E R O Y AYLMEE
MCGEE,
M.•. W.'. Grand Master. Twenty-three of their twenty-four lodges were represented at this Communication. M.-.W.-.Brother ARTHUR C . WHERRY, our Grand Representative,
was present. The arrangement of the Proceedings is totally unlike that of any other jurisdiction in that the reports of the other Grand Officers precede the address of the Grand Master. We first have a report of the Deputy Grand Master, Committee on Necrology, announcements, report of Senior Grand Warden, presentation of trowels, Grand Secretary's report, and finally the Grand Master's address. Under the subject of "Trowels Presented," we quote the following: Past Grand Master GEORGE H . D E B N addressed Grand Lodge. He recalled the fact that when he was Grand Master of this jurisdiction he had the privilege of laying the corner-stone of the Sarah Daft Home in this city, and that at that time a silver trowel was presented by the Trustees of the institution for use on the occasion of the laying of the corner-stone. Brother D E B N said that he felt this trowel should be placed in the archives of Grand Lodge, and voiced his pleasure in presenting it. The gift was accepted by Grand Lodge, with thanks. The trowel is of silver, with ebony handle, silver mounted, and bears the following inscription: "Presented to the M.-.W.-.Grand Lodge F. & A. M. of Utah, M.-.W.-. GEORGE H . DERN, Grand Master, by Sarah Daft Home. Used laying cornerstone of the Home, Nov. 2nd, 1913." Reference is m a d e in t h e r e p o r t of t h e G r a n d Secretary, t o t h e passing a w a y of their P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r , B r o t h e r W A T S O N N E W T O N SCHILLING, which occured i n P o r t l a n d , Oregon, A u g u s t 4, 1923. W e q u o t e t h e following reference t o t h i s b r o t h e r : As Grand Master, he laid the corner-stone of the present City and County Building. On that occasion the Mayor of Salt Lake City, Brother ROBERT N . BASKIN, presented him with a trowel, made of Utah silver, and a gavel turned from a piece of our own mountain mahogany and mounted with Utah silver. Since his death these articles, togethfer with his Past Grand Master's jewel, have been graciously presented to the Grand Lodge of Utah by his daughters. The Grand Secretary, in behalf of Grand Lodge, expressed our deep appreciation of this generous gift.
Under their regulations the lodge Secretaries are required to certify to the Grand Secretary the names of the newly made Master Masons who have committed their lectures. Under this regulation the Grand Secretary reports that thirty-three and one-third per cent reported one hundred per cent examined; two of their lodges failed to make any report whatever.
130
COBBESPONDENCE—UTAH
February,
We quote the following from the annual address of the Grand Master: I have always considered the position of Grand Master as one of the most honorable and desirable that can be conferred upon a Mason, and I fully appreciate your action, one year ago in elevating me to the highest position, within your power to bestow. I have tried in every possible way so to administer this trust that it will meet with your approval, and I hope that this will be true.
We note among the decisions, one in answer to a question submitted by one of their lodges, whether it was lawful for a member, who is named as a reference by a petitioner, to serve as a member of the Committee on Investigation. The question was answered in the affirmative. He was likewise asked whether one who had lost the thumb of his right hand was eligible to receive the degrees. His answer was in the negative. One of their lodges accepted a petition, elected the candidate and when conferring the First Degree discovered that he had no thumb on his right hand. The Master immediately suspended the ceremonies and asked for a. ruling. The Grand Master stated that under former opinions of his predecessors and interpretations by the Jurisprudence Committee, the candidate was clearly ineligible, but owing to the peculiar conditions, and the embarrassment incident to dropping this candidate at this particular point it was thought that the Grand Lodge should pass on the matter. The subject was referred to the Committee on Jurisprudence, who recommended that the Work be proceeded with under a special dispensation from the Grand Master. During the year he issued a special dispensation for their Kaibad Lodge No. 25 to hold a special meeting in Kaibad Forest, in the State of Arizona, from which the lodge takes its name, subject to the approval of the Grand Master of Arizona, which was granted. The pilgrimage was made by auto, covering a distance of more than five hundred miles each way. Addresses were made by M.'.W.'.Brother SAM HENRY GOODWIN, the Master, and other brethren. We venture a guess they had a delightful time. Under the subject of "Book of Ceremonies," the Grand Master has the following to say: During the annual visitations some confusion arose owing to the difference between the-form of receiving the Grand Master, as shown in the Book of Ceremonies, and the customary form of procedure. This matter was called to my attention by the Grand Lecturer. On inquiry it was learned that this procedure was changed b y the Board of Custodians in 1919, on application of Grand Master WHERRY, but they made no report of the matter, or permanent record of the change. I t is recommended that this matter be referred to the Board of Custodians for consideration and appropriate report, so if the change is to stand a permanent record will be made and future confusion avoided.
Kansas has a set form for this ceremony, although it is not made a part of our laws. Upon the recommendation of the Grand Master it is now required of each candidate that he prepare himself for and take his examination
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—VERMONT.
131
in the lecture of the Third Degree within sixty days after being made a Master Mason. We must refrain from adding anything further from this excellent report; however, there is one matter before the Grand Lodge to be reported upon at the next Annual Communication, which is of unusual interest, and we take pleasure in quoting it: •WHEREAS, many newly made Master Masons never take any active interest in lodge affairs, and cease even to attend after a short time; and WHEBEAS, older members in many instances are attending meetings with less regularity; and WHEBEAS, even many Past Masters do not attend their meetings In their lodge with any regularity; and WHEBEAS, there Is reason to believe that probably attendance on the part of Master Masons might be encouraged if forms of activity were devised whereby each of them might do some work for his lodge; Be it Resolved, that a committee of five be appointed by the Grand Master to devise ways and means of encouraging regular attendance at our lodge meetings, and stimulating interest in the Craft, by providing work for as many as possible of our members, and that there be associated with this Committee an Advisory Committee, consisting of the Masters of each of the constituent lodges, said Committee to report its findings to the next Annual Communication; that said Committee be requested to begin its work at the earliest possible date, for increasing attendance and interest as it in its discretion may deem wise prior to the next Annual Communication.
The usual Report on Correspondence is again prepared by R.\ W.\ Brother SAM HENRY GOODWIN,-and more than three pages are devoted
to a review of our 1923 Proceedings. Like many others, however, he mistakes the view taken by Kansas in regard to the New Hampshire matter, which is covered this year in our preface to this report.. His reference to Kansas is excellent, and the review throughout is extremely interesting. JAMES WILLIAM COLLINS, M.".W.-. Grand Master, Salt Lake City. SAM HENRY GOODWIN, R . \ W . " . Grand Secretary and Correspon-
dent, Salt Lake City. Next Annual, Salt Lake City, January 20,1925.
VERMONT —1924. Lodges, 103; members, 18,456; net gain, 227. Burlington, June 11, 1924.
GEORGE I. WHITNEY,
M.-.W.'.Grand
Master. Their faithful
Grand Secretary, M.-.W.-. HENRY H , ROSS, re-
sponded as the Representative of our Grand Lodge. The Grand Master presents his address in a very brief form, referring only to the pleasure of renewing old friendships and extending a welcome to the brethren. '
132
CORRESPONDENCE—VERMONT.
February.
Under the head of "Condition of Lodges," we take pleasure in quoting the following: The financial condition of many of the lodges is not good and refinancing Is needed. This is not surprising when we find the annual dues have not been Increased since the lodge was instituted, yet the expenses show a large increase. Every lodge in this jurisdiction should be financed so that a good balance can be found in their treasury at all times. Calls for charity are made and in many cases no relief can be given until a paper is passed among the members soliciting funds. Dues should be increased to provide ample funds t o conduct the lodge on a basis that all may be proud of. M y attention has been brought t o one lodge that has increased its annual dues t o five dollars. They are to be commended on their action and I hope many lodges will follow this lead.
* * * * * * The responsibility for these things rests upon the Master and ofUcers of the lodges; The Master should know that the returns are made out correctly and sent on time. The officers of the lodges should read Masonic law, and the Master should see that his lodge is represented. U n d e r t h e h e a d of " O c c u p a n c y of M a s o n i c H a l l s , " we q u o t e t h e following: Resolved, that it is the sense of the Grand Lodge that the practice of renting or allowing their rooms, which have been erected and consecrated to Masonic use, to be used for other than Masonic purposes, be discontinued. That the adoption of this resolution was a wise move on the part of the Grand Lodge is evidenced by its being reafflrmed from time to time. Personally I' have no desire a t this time to comment on the merit or demerit of any society or organization. But I do believe that Masonic halls should be for Masons only and that it is the duty of every Mason to uphold and obey the law of the Grand Lodge.
During the deliberations a resolution was introduced proposing a change in this custom and, admitting as occupants of their halls an order known as the DeMolay. The proposition developed considerable opposition and was finally laid over until their next Annual Communication. We wonder whether, under their restrictions, the good ladies of the Eastern Star are not permitted to occupy their rooms. If they admit the DeMolay why not admit the other twenty-seven newly organized societies, all claiming kinship to the Masonic Fraternity? Through the Committee on Jurisprudence it was recommended that four weeks must elapse between the conferring of the degrees on all candidates. This is in accordance with our own laws. The Report on Correspondence was again presented by Brother ARCHIE S . HARRIMAN, Past Grand Master;
however, we are dis-
appointed in finding no reference to the Proceedings of Kansas. Our journal was mailed out of this office on April 7th. Possibly a little late, however, to permit Brother HARRIMAN to include it with the
others. CHRISTIE B . CROWELL, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Brattleboro. HENRY H . ROSS, R.-.W.-.Grand Secretary, Burlington. ARCHIE S. HARRIMAN, P . - . G . - . M . - . , Correspondent, Middlebury.
Next Annual, BurUngton, June 10, 1925.
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—VICTORIA.
133
VICTORIA—1923. Lodges, 300; members, 30,332; net gain, 3,852. Quarterly Communication held in Melbourne, March 21, 1923. T H E EARL OP STRADBROKE, M . ' . W . - . Grand Master.
We note our Grand Representative was not present at this Communication. The Board of Benevolence expended during the year 557£. In addition to this 100 £ was expended subject to the approval of t h e Grand Lodge. At this Communication their M.'.W.-. Brother, His Excellency, T H E EARL OF STRADBROKE, was installed.
His address was quite brief, referring only to local matters, such as condition of the Craft, membership, and sums contributed from their lodges.. In concluding his address he states that in a few days he will depart from the jurisdiction and will be absent about six months. The next Communication was a quarterly held in Melbourne, June 20, 1923. We are pleased to note that V.-.W.'. Brother EDWARD THOMAS APPS^, our Grand Representative, was present. We note from their Proceedings that our distinguished representative is a past President of their Board of Benevolence. In accordance with their custom he was formally recognized as our. representative and the commission, delivered at that time. M.-.W.'.Brother G. E . EMERY, Past Grand'. Master, performed this part of the ceremony and concluded with t h a following words: You are to keep yourselves informed as to the proceedings of those Grand Lodges, and to give such information to this Grand Lodge as you think will be of interest to it. B .•. W .'.Brother Major BAIRD, as representative of the Grand Lodge of Mexico, will consider it his duty to encourage peace, love and harmony In that State. The next Quarterly Communication was held in Melbourne, September 19, 1923. At this Communication a report was received from their Provincial Grand.Master. I t was recommended that 250£ be appropriated to the Japanese disaster fund. The report of the Board of Benevolence a t this Communication showed they had expended 589£. We mention these matters particularly for the information of .our own brethren so they may undersand what is being done in that far off country in fulfillment of our obligations concerning the reUef of the distressed. We next note in the Proceedings a conference of Secretaries of the lodges, held in Melbourne, September 26,1923. About two hundred twenty lodges were represented at this meeting. The exercises opened with an address of welcome to the Secretaries, after which a regular program was carried out, dealing with instructions to Masters and Secretaries in regard to their meetings, minutes, propositions of can-
134
COBBESPONDENCE—ViBGINIA.
February.
didates, etc. We anticipate this meeting was of great value to the lodges. If such a gathering could be held in every Grand Jurisdiction once a year it would be of untold value to the Craft at large. The writer ventures an opinion that if Grand Lodges held their Communications every other year and a meeting of the Secretaries was held in the "off" year, it would prove to be the best move the Craft has ever made. We regret that space will not permit of quoting more the of transactions of this meeting. The final Quarterly Communication was held on December 19, 1923, with the Grand Master on the throne. Kansas was represented by V.'.W.'.Brother APPS. T H E EARL OP STRADBROKE, M.-.W.-.Grand Master. WILLIAM STEWART, R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary, Melbourne.
VIRGINIA —1924. Lodges, 347; members, 43,630; net gain, 2,439. Richmond, February 12, 1924. JAMBS H . PRICE, M . ' . W . - . Grand Master. We take pleasure in quoting the following interesting words from t h e preface to the Grand Master's address: Ours is a Fraternity which emphasizes iiot the finecta,ciila,r. hut the simple •fundamental virtues of a worthy life; a Fraternity whose mission is to build character in men that will find its truest expression In private and public morality and which will exhibit in all human relations the divine wisdom of love. M y ;ambltion for every Virginia Mason is that he may not be led' astray by the glamour of ostentation or any of the multitudinous Influences which weaken •^the structure, but that he may catch the real vision of Masonry; the vision of service and usefulness; yea, even the vision of the heights beyond. Possessed •of a Masonic vision, even the suggestion of Virginia's numerical strength Masonically carried with it a thrill almost indescribable. Masonry would mean to this venerable old Commonwealth which we love and serve, an asset of inestimable worth; a powerful bulwark in time of storm, and a mighty potential force against the foes of civic righteousness. Likewise the following, which in itself is an excellent address: The conservative thought of Masonry is needed in pubUc life today; Its unselfish spirit and honesty of purpose in our civic, social and commercial problems. I t becomes every Mason to make his individual contribution to the welfare of the community in which he lives, and fully avail himself of the duties and pri\'ileges of citizenship. I t is his duty to stand for the integrity of the law and obedience to constituted authority; to support the public schools and other governmental agencies designed for the common good; to stand for the things which are fundamentally and eternally right. There are certain great moral and social principles upon which all Individual Masons can unite; problems which legislation cannot solve, but which easily yield, like snow before the noon day sun, to the principles of Masonry working in the hearts of men. Organized Masonry, or Masonry, as an institution. Is not concerned with par-tlsan or creedal differences, and should never permit itself to become involved
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—VIRGINIA.
135
in policies and programs of the fleeting moment. It exists for entirely different purposes; Its mission is sacred to the Fraternity. Nor, indeed, is organized participation ever necessary or justified. The society of the present day supports numberless Institutions organized for specific purposes, within whose sphere these policies and programs peculiarly and properly belong. In these organizations, the Mason has opportunity to bring to the treatment of every problem and activity of our times an application of the sound principles which Masonry has Instilled Into his consciousness and into the impulses of his life. Can we not carry the spirit of the Fraternity into these activities? There, In the busy round of every day, my brethren, is a transcendent opportunity to win the world to that Masonry of action and spirit which is the very heart-throb of civilization. The opportunities I would impress upon you are personal—-the opportunities which are welcomed by men of vision and purpose; men who would make the world brighter and sweeter and richer by their contributions to it.
Referring to the passing away of their Grand Lecturer he has the following to say: On April 10th, the sad intelligence was flashed over this Grand Jurisdiction that the spirit of our esteemed Grand Lecturer, Most Worshipful Brother GEORGE W . WRIGHT, had taken its flight and that he had been called ttova labor to rest. As Masons, we are deeply grateful for his life and ser.vice. He resembled a perfect day, from dewy dawn to fruitful meridian, and on to the glowing sunset behind some distant peak which still flings its reflected splendor across the western horizon. His influence lives and will continue to live, and I somehow feel that his spirit, even at this moment, hovers over this scenf where his physical presence was so warmly greeted in days gone by. Let us pause in our deliberations, and in solemn silence pay a tribute of respect to his memory, after which the Grand Lodge will remain standing while the MaBonic choir renders that comforting old hymn, one of the Grand Lecturer's favorites, and one which has for generations brought consolation and a hopefully strengthened and renewed faith to the hearts of the distressed as its wonderful lines unfold themselves—"Nearer My GOD to Thee."
Under the head of "Historic Masonic Visit," he refers to Doric Lodge of Toronto, Canada, in the following words: One of the most pleasant incidents of the year was the fraternal visit of Doric Lodge No. 316, of Toronto, Canada, to Alexandria-Washington Lodge No. 22, of Alexandria, on June 30th, at which time I had the distinction and pleasure of welcoming our Canadian brethren to this Grand Jurisdictloh. MasonicaUy, it was historic, as Doric Lodge is the first lodge of any part of the British Empire to fraternize with the Virginia Lodge over, which Worshipful Brother GEORGE WASHINGTON presided some one hundred and forty years ago.
The following decision is what we term a "clincher" as it indicates to what extent some of these so-called "Masonic clubs" will go in assuming certain rights and privileges which are only vested in a regular Masonic Lodge: That no independent club, although composed entirely of Masons, has the right to conduct regiflar classes of Instruction and assume responsibility for imparting our Bltual. The Grand Lodge has provided ample means of Instruction through properly constituted agencies. The same rule should apply with respect to conferring degrees. Lodges, and not clubs, are recognized by this Grand Body.
136
COBHESPONDENCE—WASHINGTON.
February.
Referring t o visitors t h e G r a n d M a s t e r m a d e t h e following ruling, which w e believe will b e of i n t e r e s t t o o u r r e a d e r s : The Master of a Lodge is empowered to direct and control its affaire, and, in my opinion, the exclusion of all visitors is a proper exercise of his prerogatives, when he deems it for the best interests of Masonry and his Lodge In particular: and I am of the opinion that this is particularly true when some delicate situations, wliich sometimes develop in Masonic trials, and wlilch appeal to curiosity, are involved. Visitors are permitted as a matter of courtesy, and should always be welcome, unless under very unusual and extraordinary circumstances. W e h a d a n t i c i p a t e d a n a m e n d m e n t t o t h e i r laws providing for a n official r e c e i p t t o which reference was m a d e in their Proceedings one y e a r a g o , b u t we failed t o n o t e a n y action t a k e n b y t h e G r a n d Lodge on t h i s proposition. M.\ W.'. B r o t h e r J O S E P H W . E G G L E S T O N a g a i n p r e p a r e d t h e R e p o r t on Correspondence a n d includes w i t h i t a review of our 1923 P r o ceedings. - C H A R L E S H . CALLAHAN, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Alexandria. C H A R L E S A. N E S B I T T , R . ' . W . - . G r a n d S e c r e t a r y , R i c h m o n d . J O S E P H W . E G G L E S T O N , P.-. G . ' . M . ' . , C o r r e s p o n d e n t , R i c h m o n d .
N e x t A n n u a l , R i c h m o n d , F e b r u a r y 10, 1925.-
Lodges, 2 6 5 ; m e m b e r s , 42,807; n e t gain, 2,231. BeUingham, J u n e 10, 1924. T O M W . H O L M A N , M.-.W.-.Grand Master. We regret t o note t h a t our Grand Representative was not present at this Communication. T h e Proceedings j u s t arrived in t i m e t o " g e t u n d e r c o v e r " i n our review for t h i s year. T h e y a r e in t h e usual good form, well p r i n t e d a n d a credit t o o u r W a s h i n g t o n b r e t h r e n . An a d d r e s s ' of welcome w a s extended b y W.-. B r o t h e r ARTHUR J . C R A V E N on behalf of t h e m a y o r of t h e C i t y of BeUingham, a n d w e c a n n o t refrain from q u o t i n g t h e first p a r a g r a p h of his r e m a r k s : Coming now before you as an honored herald, I am painfully conscious of the poverty of words with wliich to clothe my message. For though words of greeting from host to guest be prompted by complete sincerity, they are but the dull asliy glow of deeper emotions whicli no verbal expression can impart. Hence any formal welcome which may now be extended in behalf of the citizens of BeUingham generally, or more especially from your brother Masons in these three northwest counties of the State, who are honored by your visitation, will be at the best largely symbolical and ceremonial. Mine the part simply to sound the welcoming bugle notes at t h e gates, a call older than the days when knighthood first rode afield on Its unending mission. I t is for you to enter In and interpret for yourselves the spirit and quality of our hospitaUty.
1924-25.
COBBESPONDENCE—WASHINGTON,
137
T h e G r a n d M a s t e r h a d t h e following t o s a y in presenting his a n n u a l message: One year ago when you elected me to this high ofHce and placed in my hand the gavel of authority, I told you of my desire to serve steadfastly as a true representative of the Craft. As my term of authority now ends, I make this accounting to you with the hope that I have been able to carry throughout our Grand Jurisdiction the ideals for progress in our Institution which I have so intimately known from contact with you. The whole-hearted co-operation and sincere interest you have shown in my administration have made my year's work one of greatest happiness and have been of real benefit to me in my effort to serve you. D u r i n g t h e y e a r he dedicated t h e new M a s o n i c Temples a t S p o k a n e a n d Seattle. F r o m his " D e c i s i o n s " we quote t h e following: On July 4, 1923, I received a telegram sent by the brethren of Ketchikan, Alaska, to a brother of that lodge at Seattle, requesting that I appoint WAEEEN G. HAKDING, President of the United States, as my special deputy to open Grand Lodge at Ketchikan for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the Masonic Temple to be erected there. In answer thereto I held that I had no authority to appoint anyone but a Master Mason who is a member of a lodge within the Grand Jurisdiction of the State of Washington as my special deputy to open Grand Lodge. I was willing to authorize any of the qualified brethren in Ketchikan to act for this purpose, but declined to appoint President HARDING for the reason that he was a Master Mason in a lodge under the Grand Jurisdiction of Ohio. Because of this. Grand Lodge was not opened and the cornerstone of the Temple was laid by President HARDING without Masonic Bifual. I n connection w i t h t h e same proposition we q u o t e t h e following: After the visit in Alaska of President WARREN G . HARDING, during which he laid the corner-stone of Ketchikan Lodge No. 159, Temple, the Alaskan brethren wrote me for permission to circularize the lodges witliln our Grand Jurisdiction for the purpose of erecting, at the Temple site, a suitable memorial to the memory of our late President. Upon careful consideration of the request and after conference with the chairman of my Finance Committee, I withheld such permission, but have granted to the brethren the privilege of presenting the matter at this Communication. As a rule we h e a r t i l y agree with t h e position taken, b y G r a n d M a s t e r HOLMAN, b u t in this particular we believe h e was a little " t h i n s k i n n e d . " One so distinguished a m o n g his b r e t h r e n as t h e P r e s i d e n t of t h e U n i t e d S t a t e s we believe is deserving of a little more consideration t h a n t h e average m e m b e r , a n d while it would h a v e been a v a r i a t i o n from their c u s t o m s a n d laws, i t is our opinion t h a t t h e r e q u e s t s h o u l d h a v e been g r a n t e d . D u r i n g t h e year t h e G r a n d M a s t e r w a n d e r e d a w a y from his o w n jurisdiction a n d enjoyed t h e fellowship of t h e b r e t h r e n of t h e G r a n d Lodge of British Columbia. H e offered t h e following r e c o m m e n d a t i o n , t o b e a d d e d t o all petitions for t h e degrees: Do you promise on your honor that, until you have been a Master Mason for a period of one year and have creditably passed an examination of proficiency as a Master Mason, you will not petition for membership in any other organization which has as a requirement membership in a Masonic Lodge?
138
CORRESPONDENCE—WASHINGTON.
February.
This was referred to the Committee on Jurisprudence, who recommended t h a t the matter be deferred for one year; however, the Grand Lodge ordered it referred back to the committee with instructions to prepare a law in accordance with the Grand Master's view. This was done, but the Grand Lodge reversed itself and disapproved the recommendation of the committee. Under the head of "Permanent Members of Grand Lodge," we note that he includes among the jurisdictions of the United States which do not allow Past Masters to vote, that of Kansas. This is a mistake, as Kansas grants to our. Past Masters the same right to vote as the Master and Wardens. The Grand Secretary's report is well arranged; however, we cannot refrain from suggesting that if he will combine the reports of the Committee on Jurisprudence, or allow one to follow the other instead of scattering them through the journal, he will have the everlasting praise of the reviewers. Our Washington brethren propose to stop undue display of Masonic emblems as we note from the following amendment to their laws: No Mason shall exhibit any Masonic emblem upon any sign, flag or banner, except in a Masonic procession, nor upon any place of business or business advertisement; nor use any such emblem or the word "Masonic" or the words "for Masons only" or words of similar Import, in connection with any business enterprise except the publication of boolss, magazines or other Masonic literatiu-e. Brother
RALPH
C . MCALLASTEE
presents the
usual
Report
on Correspondence v/hich includes a review of our 1924 Proceedings. The report is somewhat brief, but he covers all the really important matters so far as our jurisdiction is concerned and we are therefore perfectly satisfied. We are somewhat at a loss to know why the name of the writer of the Report on Correspondence is not indicated in the committees. His name and address are important to the writers of the Reports on Correspondence. ROBERT C . MCCROSKEY, M . ' . W . - . Grand Master, Garfield. HORACE W . TYLER, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Tacoma.
Next Annual, Hoquiam, June 16, 1925.
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—WESTERN
AUSTRALIA.
139
WESTERN AUSTRALIA—1923. Lodges, 102; members, 6,010; net gain, 493. Annual Communication held at Perth, May 24, 1923. Rev. C. O. L. RILEY, Arch Bishop of Perth, Grand Master.
We note the absence of our Grand Representative, but an apologywas sent to the Grand Lodge. A Quarterly Communication was held in Galgoorlie, August 24, 1922. The Grand Master in presenting his address, has the following few words of interest to say: We have had many pleasant gatherings here in the past, and we have partaken of Goldfleld's hospitality for over twenty years, so a great many of us look forward t o this annual visit. I regret that it has rained heavily ever since we arrived in Kalgoorlie, but while that is unpleasant for visitors, it is good for the country. The number of brethren who have traveled from the coast are fewer than usual, but they feel that there are.sufficient Grand Officers of ability and experience on the goldflelds to do all the work that is required in carrying out a Quarterly Communication.
He has the following to say. in regard to the Report on Correspondence: I have been requested by the Committee on Foreign Correspondence to once again bring under the notice of the brethren the Reviews of the Proceedings of the other Grand Lodges of the world, which are contained in the Annual volume. This will be issued very shortly, and will be available to all lodges and brethren. As the Committee have remarked, there are no better means ot giving the brethre;n an idea of what is taking place in the Craft in other parts of the world than this Annual Review.
They are erecting a memorial tablet in the main lodge room of Freemasons Hall, in Perth, and the Grand Master reports that it is almost complete, and arrangements are being made for the unveiling of the same at an early date. At the Quarterly Communication of February 22, 1923, M.\ W.\ Brother CHARLES OWEN LEVER RILEY, Arch Bishop of Perth, was
elected Grand Master. Under their law it requires a special dispensation for lodges to initiate candidates on the night of their election. The Grand Master reports that this privilege was granted on account of candidates proceeding to the front for active service during the war, but since t h a t time these powers have been granted very sparingly. His attention was also called to holding picnics on Sunday, which seemed to be practiced by one of their lodges.. We quote the following on this subject, which we believe will be of interest to our members: My attention having been drawn to the fact that one of our lodges had made arrangements for the holding of a Simday Picnic, I considered it right as Grand Master t h a t 1 should lay my views before them. While I dislike interfering with the purely domestic concerns of any lodge I think it is a pity t h a t a Sunday should be selected for the holding of a more or less public function of
140
CORRESPONDENCE—WEST
VIRGINIA.
February,
this character. In all Masonic acts we should be studiously careful not t o offend the susceptibilities of others, including those of our brethren who beUevein Sunday observance, and, personally, 1 have always considered Sunday to be a dies ni-n so far as t h e Craft is concerned, and on more than one occasion have made a pronouncement t o that effect. As individuals we reserve to ourselves such freedom of action regarding Sunday as we think proper, but as Freemasons we have certain restrictions imposed on us which do n o t affect the Individual in his private capacity as an ordinary citizen. I am pleased to say that the lodge accepted my views in a most loyal manner and a t once cancelled all the arrangem e n t s t h a t had been made. For this ready compliance with my desires I personally expressed my thanks to the Master. W e a r e sorry t o n o t e t h a t t h e R e p o r t o n Correspondence contains n o reference t o t h e G r a n d Lodge of K a n s a s . Possibly our Proceedings did n o t a r r i v e i n time for review. CHARLES O W E N L E V E R RILEY, M . - . W . ' . G r a n d Master, Perth.
J. D . S T E V E N S O N , R.-.W.-. G r a n d S e c r e t a r y , P e r t h .
WEST VIRGINIA—1923. L o d g e s , 165; m e m b e r s , 31,018; n e t gain, 1,614. W h e e l i n g , N o v e m b e r 14, 1923.
E. CARL FRAME,
M.-.W.-.Grand
Master, B r o t h e r J O H N M . C O L L I N S , their faithful G r a n d Secretary, r e presented Kansas. We q u o t e t h e following from t h e preface t o t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s a d d r e s s , which reflects t h e t r u e spirit of F r e e m a s o n r y : Fortunately, Masonry is not dependent upon the efforts of a single individual, or corps of officers, however efficient. The principles of our Institution were cemented into its foundation by the Master Architect a t the beginning of time: her three vast pillars are imbedded in t h e imperishable principles of justice and liberty for all mankind—broad-based on the everlasting foundations of service and beauty, and, like the sturdy oak, her roots become more firmly emplanted in the soil of civilization as the storms of adverse criticism seek her destruction. There can be no danger to Masonry from without; nor, can there be from within, if those of us who arc enlisted under her banner will but remember and practice the Tenets of our Institution-—Brotherly Love, Belief and Truth —and adhere t o t h e plain, simple rules of action as taught us on our first entrance Into Masonry, embodied in the Cardinal Virtues, and illustrated by Temperance, Fortitude, Prudence and Justice. ' A q u e s t i o n came t o h i m in regard t o t h e correct m e a s u r e m e n t of jurisdiction from one lodge t o another. H i s answer w a s t o t h e effect t h a t d i s t a n c e should b e m e a s u r e d t o a p o i n t e q u i d i s t a n t betweeji t h e lodge buildings o n a n air line, a n d not from t h e c o r p o r a t e limits. This is q u i t e u n l i k e o u r o w n l a w in t h a t while o u r distance is m e a s u r e d i n t h e s a m e w a y , y e t we provide t h a t t h e m e a s u r e m e n t shall b e from t h e c o r p o r a t e limits, unless t h e t o w n is n o t i n c o r p o r a t e d a n d in which case t h e distance is t h e n m e a s u r e d from t h e hall.
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—WEST
VIRGINIA.
141
A joint meeting of the District Deputy Grand Masters and Lecturers was held, and reports were received from each on the general conditions of the lodges. No doubt their meeting corresponds with our own, wherein we hold a District Deputy Grand Masters' meeting during the Annual Communication. He reports that their Masonic Home is nearing completion and t h a t it will soon be ready for occupancy. The Grand Master proposes that candidates be required to become proficient in the Master Mason degree before petitioning for other degrees in Masonry. The recommendation fell by the way-side, although the committee on proposed amendments made a favorable report. Referring to an outside organization, and which some of the members are endeavoring to make the general public believe t h a t Masonry is a part of their institution, he has the following to say: I t would seem unnecessary to state to thinking Masons that our Institution is not, and in the lights of its Constitution, Ancient Landmarks, Rules and Regulations, can not be, in any manner connected witli that, or any other order, which does not seek to inculcate tolerance and the union of men of all faiths. Masonry is a distinctive and distinct organization. Since its inception, she has never joined herself with any association or society that did not "carry the flag and keep step with the union." She has always stood for law enforcement by constituted authority. She has never attempted t o redress private wrongs or sought to influence or control the due administration of public justice by force, intimidation or otherwise. When we forgot that our Fraternity is founded on the everlasting principles of the Fatherhood of GOD and the Brotherhood of Man; when we cease to maintain our Altar as one around which men of every religious faith can unite in the cultivation of the eternal and immutable religion which GOD has implanted in the universal heart of man, then we cease to be Masons. Let us as an Institution and as individuals keep the faith that has been reposed in us. T h e C o m m i t t e e o n Correspondence, t o w h o m h a d b e e n referred several applications for recognition of G r a n d Lodges of foreign origin, s u b m i t t e d t h e following: We have not considered the same, for the reason that this Grand Lodge has, all along, adhered to the view not to recognize any organization of Freemasons in any country, which has not divorced itself from any other branch of the Masonic Order than the one known as Ancient York Masons, or Symbolic Masonry. When this has been done, tliis Committee will gladly recommend their recognition. Tins view has been specillcally maintained, for years past, by M..W.-. JOHN M . MCCOSIHAY, of this Committee, who is physically unable to be present at this Communication of this M.'. W .•. Grand Lodge, or can ever be consiflted by the other members of this Committee. The Report on Correspondence was again p r e p a r e d b y M . \ W . \ Brother GEORGE W . ATKINSON and as usual is replete with interesting matter taken from the Proceedings of various jurisdictions. Referring to our 1923 Proceedings we observe he has covered practically all the important matters which came before our Grand Lodge. Referring to the writer of this report Brother ATKINSON rather twits him a bit concerning the instructions of the Grand Lodge three years ago t o '
142
CORRESPONDENCE—WISCONSIN.
February,
print a picture of himself in the Proceedings. We plead guilty to the charge of disobeying the Grand Lodge; however, in defense of our action we will say that the members of the Grand Lodge took advantage of the Grand Secretary's absence, which we believe was scarcely right and proper. No, we are not inclined to allow our picture to grace the Proceedings of any of our Grand Bodies. We would much prefer to furnish any interested friend or brother with a photograph, but not through the channels of the Proceedings. F R E D C . STEINBICKEK, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Wheeling. JOHN M . COLLINS, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Charleston. GEORGE W . ATKINSON, P.-. G.". M . ' . , Correspondent, Charleston.
Next Annual, Bluefield,[November 13, 1924.
WISCONSIN —1924. Lodges, 295; members, 52,364; net gain, 2,814. Milwaukee, June 10, 1924.
CHARLES F . LAMB, M . ' . W . - . Grand
Master. R.'. W.'. Brother DAVID HARLOWB, our Grand
Representative,
was present. The first order of business was the reading of a communication from Brother WILLIAM H . WEBB, Deputy Grand Master, stating that on account of sickness and business matters it was impossible for him to attend this Annual Communication, and in justice to himself he could not accept advancement. In concluding his communication he had the following kind words to say to the brethren: With my heart overwhelmed with gratitude for the honors so lavishly bestowed upon me in the past and with an earnest prayer that the choicest blessings of the Supreme Architect of the Universe may rest upon you and the other officers and members of the Grand Lodge Free and Accepted Masons of Wisconsin.
A few words of encouragement to the brethren attending the Grand Lodge are expressed b y the Grand Master in the following: To many, the Annual Communication renews, strengthens, and perpetuates friendships already formed; to many will fall t h e lot t o here form friendships, now new, but which will strengthen with the passing years, and last as long as life itself.
Under the head of " Masonic Temples," we quote the following, believing the time has come when the so-called progressive ideas of erecting unnecessary and uncalled for large Masonic Temples should cease: In several requests from lodges for assistance in the care of the unfortunate the burden of unpaid charges on the Masonic Temple was put forward as one reason why assistance from the Grand Lodge was desired.
1924-25.
CORRESPONDENCE—WYOMING.
143
The relief of the distressed Is a duty Incumbent on all men, but particularly on Masons. To aid and assist all poor, distressed, worthy Brother Masons, their widows and orphans, so far as their necessities require and our ability permits is a fundamental duty. The building of Masonic edifices and the elegance and convenience secured should In no wise impair our ability to relieve those whose misfortune requires the practical application of our obligations. T h e y a d o p t e d t h e following a m e n d m e n t t o their C o n s t i t u t i o n , a n d in accordance t h e r e w i t h t h e y elected B r o t h e r J O H N E . B A S T t o t h e office of Assistant G r a n d S e c r e t a r y : AETICIE I I . SECTION 8.—There is hereby "created the oflBce of Assistant Grand Secretary who shall be elected a t each Annual Communication of t h e Grand Lodge. Such Assistant Grand Secretary shall be subject to the general direction of the Grand Secretary. The Grand Secretary shall be responsible for the acts of such Assistant Grand Secretary. Such Assistant Grand Secretary Bhall receive an annual salary, to be determined by the Grand Lodge, and to be paid at the end of each quarter. We a r e pleased t o n o t e t h i s a m e n d m e n t t o their laws a s t h i s will certainly lighten t h e w o r k a n d responsibility of B r o t h e r P E R R Y . I n accordance w i t h t h e action of t h e G r a n d Lodge one year a g o t h e following action w a s t a k e n i n r e g a r d t o t h e so-called M a s o n i c club proposition: " T h e organization of any club within the membership of a lodge is forbidden by this Grand Lodge," so that said edict when so amended shall read as follows, to-wit: " I t is a violation of Masonic Law for a number of Masons to form themselves into a club and meet for social purposes and adopt the name Masonic Club. The organization of any club within the membership of a lodge Is forbidden by this Grand Lodge." M.'.W.". B r o t h e r A L D R O J E N K S again presents t h e R e p o r t o n Correspondence including a review of o u r 1924 Proceedings, t h e r e b y bringing this portion of his r e p o r t u p t o d a t e . F R A N K J O H N S O N , M . " . W . - . G r a n d M a s t e r , Black River Falls. W I L L I A M W . P E R R Y , R . - . W . \ G r a n d Secretary, M i l w a u k e e . ALDRO J E N K S , P . \ G . \ M . * . , Correspondent, Dodgeville.
N e x t A n n u a l , M i l w a u k e e , J u n e 9, 1925.
WYOMING-1923. Lodges, 4 3 ; m e m b e r s , 6,873; n e t gain, 360. C h e y e n n e , A u g u s t 22, 1 9 2 3 . W I L L I A M A. R I N E R , M . - . W . - . G r a n d
Master. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r , i n s u b m i t t i n g his address, h a s t h e following t o s a y which will be of i n t e r e s t t o our r e a d e r s : The wisdom of ages past created the Order of Freemasonry. The wisdom and experience of the many ages through which it has lived have highly Justified that creation. Old things sometimes weary, grow out of date, decay and
144
COBBESPONDENCE—WYOMING.
February,
vanish. N o t so the Masonic society, for with a good and sure foundation, with, principles of the best, unscathed. It has weathered the storms of centuries, crushed antagonism, and front year to year has risen to a higher, a nobler plane. Not only Is this true the world over, but It is most gratifying to realize that in our own jurisdiction we are keeping well in the line of Masonic progress and advancement. As year follows year we have increased in numbers. Significantly, too, our Institution is growing stronger in the hearts and the estimation of the people of our State.
Their jurisdiction was called upon during the year to bow their heads to the inevitable, when three of their Past Grand Masters passed to the Great Beyond—Brothers ERVIN F . CHENEY, WILLIAM DALEY and FRANK A. LUCKFIELD.
In accordance with the action of the Grand Lodge one year ago the Grand Master appointed a committee who in due time, purchased a set of new jewels for their Grand Officers. He calls attention to their law in.regard to the transfer of membership, which is quite like our own, and directs attention to the confusion caused by the carelessness of Secretaries in not following the instructions as contained in the law. We have been practicing this system for the past eight years and finally at our last Annual Communication the law was amended, providing that all such transfers hereafter should be sent through the office of the Grand Secretary. That, indeed, is the only solution to the question. Their Grand Historian presented an interesting report, which eventually will prove of great value t o the Craft in that jurisdiction. Other jurisdictions had better take warning and "make hay while the sun shines." One of these days a lot of us fellows will turn up missing when the Craft desire to compile a history of the Fraternity in their respective jurisdictions. The Proceedings are embellished with a splendid likeness of the Past Grand Masters attending this Annual Communication. One notable feature of this picture is that it is composed largely of what the writer of this report considers young men. The salary of the Grand Secretary was increased to $1200.00, and the chairman of the Committee on Correspondence to $300.00. From our own experience, and with no disposition to " r u b any member's back" these brethren earn every penny they are paid and then a whole lot more. The Report on Correspondence is presented by their faithful Grand Secretary, Brother JOSEPH M . LOWNDES. It contains a review of our 1923 Proceedings. Referring to the criticism of the writer in regard to an error in the date of their 1921 Proceedings, he pleads guilty and throws himself upon the mercy of the court. The fine is remitted. J. W. STUTCHELL, M.-.W.-.Grand Master, Shoshoni. JOSEPH M . LOWNDES, R.-. W.". Grand Secretary and Correspondent,
Casper. Next Annual, Laramie, August 27, 1924.
145
CORRESPONDENCE—APPENDIX
1.924-25.
MEMBERSHIP GRAND LODGES. statistical table showing membership of Grand Lodges. Compiled by R.'.W.'. ALBERT K WILSON, for the Kansas Committee on Correspondence. February, 1925.
Grand Lodge.
No. of Lodijes. 584 33 458 505 155 119 22 34 246 080 75 901 S58 S52 440 614 208 206 117 308 481 292 381 659 143 286 23 226 53 941 456 124 597 433 158 S41 42 285 168 472 961 24 103 347 265 165 295 43
Total U. S
15.905
Year.
1923 1924 1923 1924 1923 1924 1923 1923 1924 1923 1923 1924 1924 1924 1924 1923 1924 1924 1923 1923 1924 1924 1924 1923 1923 1924 1924 • 1924 1924 1924 1924 1924 1923 1924 1923 1923 1924 1924 1924 1924 1923 1924 1924 1924 1924 1923 1924 1923
Memhership. 50,126 5.444 33.112 108,176 29,201 •41,206 5,715 21,132 24,228 67,344 9,135 271,374 120,973 83,871 78,041 71,026 33,214 42,550 30,489 115,585 138,974 55,909 33,308 107,041 19,433 39,585 2,629 78,469 6,163 299,034 39.655 15,033 179,788 62,793 25,331 193,659 17,032 28,717 18,905 45,344 122,879 4,502 18,456 43,030 42,807 31,018 52,304 6,873 *2,971,339
*Exclusive of 1923 figures for New Hampshire.
Net Gain.
Net Loss.
2.000 304 634 7,893 1,517 139 1.146 1,537 384 359 11,801 3,899 2,466 2,776 1,766 1,949 826 857 5,567 4,903 1,968 2,162 2,957 756 943 108 4,615 188 12,440 1,307 200 7,447 3.063 1,582 7,099 775 580 402 2,108 5,387 181 227 2.439 2,231 1,014 2,814 360 118,796 1
-
146'
COIIBESPONDENCE—APPENDIX.
February,
OTHER GRAND LODGES RECOGNIZED BY THE GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS. Grand
Chile.
Lodge.
:
Ao. of Lodges.
Year.
Membership Last Report.
Net Gain.
132 112 508 68 14 10153 6 3,889 15
1924 1924 1924 1923 1924 1921 1922 1924 1923 1923
12,017 .12,775 102.096 4,000 600 2.53 12,275 475 320,000 650
650 94 15 44 437 236 79 7 15 93 15 50 79 319 6 168 877 112 38 300 102
1923 1924 1923 1922 1923 1923 1924 1923 1923 1924 1924
50.000 11.078 917 5,374 50.638 21,320 9,579 269 1,900 6,685 1,169 4,511 13,206 19.000 182 12,392 260,000 11.051 3.215 30.332 6.010
166,237 758 388 3,852 493
1924 1923 1923 1923 1923 1924 1924 1923 1923
271 682 4.060 4.000 600 144 70,000 650 394 5,611 1,605 114 29 700 5 29 529 2,948 31
Total Membership.. U s Totals
8,653 15,905
983,969 2,971,339
264,130 118,796
Grand Totals
24.558
3,955.308
382,926
•The large net gain is based on approximate membership to date.
Net Loss.
CORRESPONDENCE—APPENDIX.
1924-25.
147
CONSOLIDATED STATISTICAL APPENDIX. Prepred by ALBERT K . W I L S O N . G r a n d Secretary a n d Grand Recorder. K a n s a s C o r r e s p o n d e n t , F e b r u a r y . 1925. U N I T E D STATES AND FOREIGN MASONIC Grand Lodge.
N o r t h Dakota.,'. Ohio
Texas Utah WashinRton W e s t Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming
Grand Chapter.
50,126' 5.444 33,112 108.176 29.201 41,206 5.715 21,132 24,228 67.344 9.135 271.374 120.973 83,871 78,041 71,026 33,214 42,556 30.489 115.585
15,151 1,270 7.506 22.097 7.966 15.798 2.048 6.498 7.405 19.125 2,702 82,345 32,440 23,347 21,356 19,396 8,653 16,933 9,094 39,186
138,974 55,609 33,308 107,041 19,433 39.585 2,629
44.554 15,104 7,503 35.086 4,839 8,042 640 5,844 18,153 1,905 67,526 8,126 4,1.58 74,748 13,806 6,908 57.519 8.817 6.536 6,352 10,510 41,623 1.142 5,961 15,746 8,520 11,438 22,361 2,128
78,469 6,163. 299,034 39,655 15,033 179,788 62,793 25,331 193.659 17,032 28.717 18.965 45.344 122,879 4.502 18,456 43,630 42,807 31,018 52,364 6,873 *2.971,339
2.971,339
Grand Council.
8.258 l»784 2,553 11,579 4.679 5,972
1.578 1,669 6,106
3,291 4,563 8,607 1,669 34,138 12,615 12.347 14,188 10,140 2,597 8,969 4,455
21,376 19,064 7,402 6,626 4.719 1,792 8,052 4,680 15,090 15,451 3,088 4.024 11,841 899 3.348 3,687 3,734 12,067 1,443 827 41.920 4.752 1,986 14,608 5,558 4,266 1,261 2,675 35,959 1.919 2,810 7.679 311,617
877.413
312.797
• E x c l u s i v e of 1923 figures for N e w H a m p s h i r e ,
Grand Comd'y.
5,280 490 1,368 7,984 2,301 10,238
875,911 1,502
Gr. E n c a m p m e n t S u b o r d i n a t e s T o t a l M e m b e r s h i p U. S. A
MEMBERSHIP.
1,180
,
25,769 14,888 7.520 4,148 15,821 2,665 4,469 302 3,500 6,901 1,295 35,218 4,855 2,346 31,720 6,777 3,772 38,485 3,993 3,751 4,530 18,067 750 3.693 6,806 4,229 6,493 9,486 1,414 424,967 1,611 426,578
148
CORRESPONDENCE—APPENDIX. FOREIGN
GRAND
BODIES.
Grand Lodge.
Chile Cuba
February,
12,017 12,775 102,090 4,000 600 253 12,275 475 320.000
Grand Chapter. 2,711 2.373 24.547
70,000
050 50,000 11,078 917 5,374 50,638 21,320 9,579 209 1,900 6,085 1,169 4,511 13.206 19,000 182 12.392 260,000 11,051 3,215 30,332 6.010 Total
9S3,969 2.971.339
16,000 1,531 •
Grand Council.
Grand Comd'y.
2'7'6
11.573
727
4.108
656
1.292 913 3.047 2,711
3,196 2,522
2,874 654
134,371 877,41,3 3 955 308 1,011.784
1,659 312,797
15.081 426.578
314,450
442.259
PROCEEDINGS
M;.W;. GRAND LODGE ANCIENT, FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS
KANSAS. SEVENTIETH ANNUAL COMMUNICATION, HELD IN THE CITY OF TOPEKA, KANSAS, February 24 and 25, A. D. 1926, A. L. 5926.
VOLUME XX, PART 2. M.-.W.-. JOHN W. NEILSON, Grand Master, Concordia. R.-. W.-. ALBERT K. WILSON, Grand Secretary, Topeka.
Published by Order of the M .-.W.-. Grand Lodge.
1926.
,'.
CHARLES A . LOUCKS GRAND MASTER,
February 26, 1925, to February 25. 1926.
GRAND OFFICERS FOR 1926. M.-.W.-.JOHN W. NEILSON R.-. W.-. CHARLES N . FOWLER R/. W.-.FERRIS M . HILL R.'. W.". GEORGE F . BEEZLEY
Grand Master Concordia. Deputy Grand Master ..Salina. Grand Senior Warden ..Emporia. Grand Junior Warden..Girard.
R:. W.". WILLIAM FRANK MARCH ..Grand Treasurer
Lawrence.
R.'. W.'.ALBERT K . WILSON Grand Secretary Topeka. Bro. and Rev. F R E D E . BROOKS ....Grand Chaplain Marysville. W . ' . J A Y B . KIRK Grand Senior Deacon....lola. W.-. CLICK FOCKELE Grand Junior Deacon ..he Roy. W.-. ALVA L . SWEAEINGEN Grand Marshal Kansas City. W.-. WILLIAM B . PENNY Grand Sword Bearer Cottonwood Falls. W.-. CLARENCE R . ATEN Grand Senior Steward .:T)odge City. W.-. FRANK D . SPERRY Grand Junior iSieM;ard..Ellsworth. W.-. HOMER T . HARDEN Grand Pursuivant Wichita. W.'.W. AMER BURNETT Grand Tyler Oberiin.
PLACE OF MEETING—1927. The seventy-first Annual Communication of the M.*. W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas, will be held in the city of Wichita, Kansas, on the fourth Wednesday, being the 23rd day of February, A. D. 1927, A. L. 5927, at 9 o'clock A. M.
PRKS9 OF KETOHESON PRINTING CO. I/EAVENWORTH, KANSAS.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE
IVE.-.W/. G R A N D
LODGE:
—OF—
A. F . & A. M. OF KANSAS.
SEVENTIETH ANNUAL COMMUNICATION. TOPEKA, KANSAS, February 24, 1926. The M.-.W.-. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas convened in Annual Communication in Representative Hall, State Capitol, in the city of Topeka, Kansas, Wednesday, the 24th day of February, A. D. 1926, A. L. 5926, at 9 o'clock A. M. GRAND OFFICERS M.-.W.-.CHARLES A. LOUCKS R.-. W.-.JOHN W. NBILSON R.-. W.-. CHARLES N . FOWLER R.-. W.-.FERRIS M . H I L L
PRESENT.
Grand Master Lakin. Deputy Grand Moster ..Concordia. Grand Senior Warden ..SaiinsL. Grand Junior Warden..Emporia.
R.-. W.-. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH ..Grand Treasurer
R.-. W.-.ALBBRT K . WILSON Grand Bro. and Rev. FRED E . BROOKS Grand W.-. GEORGE F . BEEZLEY Grand W.-. JOHN S . RIGG Grand W.-.BAYARD J. LONG Grand W.-.EMERSON B . WELLS Grand W.-. CHARLIE E . CALB ...Grand W.-. WILLIAM M . GLENN....as Grand W.-.FRANCIS L . PIERCE Grand W.-.W. AMER BURNETT Grand OPENING
Lawrence.
Secretary Topeka. Chaplain Marysville. Senior Deacon....Girard. Junior Deacon ..Hutchinson. Marshal Haviland. Sword Bearer Topeka. Senior Steward ..Fratt. Junior Steward..Tnhnne. Pursuivant Lakin. Tyler Oberlin.
CEREMONY.
A constitutional number of lodges being represented, the M.'.W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was opened in Ample Form, after an invocation of divine blessing by Rev. FKBD E . BROOKS, Grand Chaplain. A chorus composed of members of Topeka Lodge No. 17, Topeka, then sang several numbers.
278
PROCEEDINGS OF THE
February,
OPENING PKAYEK.
O GOD, Maker of Heaven and Earth and all things therein: We humbly acknowledge Thee as our GOD and Father, and gratefully adore Thee as the only wise GOD our Saviour. At the opening of this Grand Lodge we pray for Thy Presence. Without Thee we are helpless; with Thee all things are possible. We therefore pray for the removal of our every sin that hides Thy face, especially our pride and self-will, malice and hatred and bigotry in all its forms. We would approach Thee in lowly dependence of contrite hearts as the sole condition of Thy favor. Thou dost give Thy grace to the humble, but the proud Thou dost know afar off. We thank Thee, 0 GOD, for Thy continued goodness. Thou hast taught, guided and preserved our Fraternity. Thou hast rebuked us when we went astray and scourged us when we rebelled. Thou has been a comfort in death, a defense in danger, a rest for the weary, and a tower of strength.for all who put their trust in Thee. May all the deliberations of this Grand Lodge begin and end in Thy holy will. That this may be so, teach us anew the necessity of honesty and the cowardice and uselessness of falsehood. Show us how futile it is to try to build society upon any other foundation than absolute truth, sincerity, justice, honor, and service,^the enduring qualities of Thine own character. Continue to teach us, even by the disaster of our failures if need be, that we can no more adhere together without the ties of brotherly love than a building of brick or stone can stand erect without the adhesive qualities of mortar. Grant especially to Thy servant our Grand Master the guidance of Thy wisdom and the support of Thine own right arm. May he have the courage that comes from the single eye of moral purpose. And may his zeal for the welfare of Masonry be equalled only by the fervency and industry of the Craft to make brotherly love prevail. And thus may this Fraternity be used of Thee, to Whom it is erected, as a mighty instrument of righteousness in accomplishing the will of GOD for the brotherhood of man. To Thy Holy Name be all the glory.—Amen. WELCOME TO VISITORS.
The M.".W.". Grand Master extended a cordial invitation to all Master Masons in good standing to attend this Annual Communication. TELEGRAM.
The following telegram was received from R.". W/. Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of Kansas near the Grand Lodge of Oregon: WALTER O . HAINES,
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
279'
PORTLAND, OREGON, February 24, 1926.
ALBERT K . WILSON, Grand Secretary,
Grand Lodge A. F. & A. M., Topeka, Kansas. Please convey to M.-.W.'. Grand Master and Grand Lodge m y best wishes for a prosperous and successful session. May every blessing by yours. WALTER O. HAINES.
INTRODUCTION OF GRAND REPRESENTATIVES.
The Grand Secretary called the roll of Grand Representatives near the Grand Lodge of Kansas, who were introduced by W.-. GEORGE F . BEEZLEY, Grand Representative of New York, and were welcomed by the M.'. W.". Grand Master. Suitable acknowledgment of the reception accorded them was made by M.". W.-. ELMER F ^ STRAIN, Grand Representative of Florida. REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON CREDENTIALS.
W.-. ROBERT H . MONTGOMERY, chairman, submitted the following report, which, on motion, was adopted: To the M.:W.: Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: Your Committee on Credentials begs leave to report the following members and representatives present and entitled to seats in this Grand Lodge: GRAND OFFICERS.
M .W.-. CHARLES A. LOUCKS R.-. W.-.,J0HN W. NEILSON R.-. W.-. CHARLES N . FOWLER R.-. W.-. FERRIS M . HILL R.-. W.-. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH R:-. W.-. ALBERT K . WILSON Bro. and Rev. FRED E . BROOKS
W.-. GEORGE F . BEEZLEY W.-. JOHN S. RIGG W.-. BAYARD J. LONG
W.-. EMERSON B . WELLS W.-. CHARLIE E . CALE W.-. WILLIAM M . GLENN W.'. FRANCIS L . PIERCE W.-. W. AMER BURNETT
Grand Master.
:
Deputy Grand Master. Grand Senior Warden. Grand Junior Warden. Grand Treasurer. Grand Secretary. Grand Chaplain.
Grand Senior Deacon. Grand Junior Deacon. Grand Marshal.
..Grand Sword Bearer. Grand Senior Steward. as Grand Junior Steward. Grand Pursuivant. Grand Tyler.
280
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
Felruary,
SUB-OFFICERS.
Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro.
CHARLES GRAHAM DUNLAP
Grand Orator.
FREDERIC H . WILSON
Assistant to Grand Secretary.
LEON L . COUSLAND
Official Stenographer.
WILLIAM J. BOND
Assistant Grand Tyler.
w.-. HARVEY 0 . DAVIS w.-. STANFORD M . SMART w.-. GRAFTON D . WHITAKER
Lecturer. Lecturer. Lecturer.
Year of PAST GRAND MASTERS.
M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. .M.-.W.-.
Service.
PERRY M . HOISINGTON THOMAS G . FITCH THOMAS L . BOND HENRY P . MASON WILLIAM EASTON HUTCHISON ELRICK C . COLE WILLIAM L . BURDICK GILES H . LAMB OWEN J. WOOD HUGH P. FARRELLY B E N S . PAULEN.. JOHN MCCULLAGH RICHARD E . BIRD ELMER F . STRAIN
1901 1904 1906 1908 1912 1913 1915 1916 1919 1920 1921 1922 1923 1924
DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTERS.
District No. I'AUL M . MARTIN
1
J O H N H . CLARKE 3 CLAYBOURNE W . REYNOLDS 5 A. DAVID F O X 6 F R E D ROY ALFORD 8 EDGAR T . FOSTER 9 HUBERT H . HUBBARD .....10 GEORGE O . FOSTER 13 JAMES A. CAMPBELL '..15 EDWIN C . EAGLES 16 L E W I S W . DAVIS... 18 JAMES M . LAYTON 20 CLICK FOCKELE 23 JAMES H . BEEGLB 24 STEPHEN A. D . GEAUQUE 25 LEE D . KEENER 26 ORVAL E . MOON 27 EDMUND L . FOULSTON 28 THEODORE H . DOHRBR 29 ROY G . SHEARER 32 JAMES A. CASSLER 33 LAUREN D . RIGG 34 CLAUDE 0 . CONKEY 35 G L E N CHAMBERLAIN 36
District NOFERRY E. MILLER DAVID A. NYWALL GUY W . BROWN CHARLES S . LOCKLIN L E W I S G . JENNINGS HARMON J. BOWER JOSEPH E . BREAKEY CLARENCE E . FARNSWORTH BENJAMIN H . FLYR CLARENCE M . CROSBY R. NELSON LONG GUY R . CURRIER WILLIAM C . DICKEY JOHN B . FLEMING BARLUS ROMSTEDT EARL W . RAY HARVEY B . BRENEMAN ELMER S . NANCE JOHN F . CARTER E R L E S . FRANCIS PAUL HOFFMANN E U G E N E W . DAVIS JAMES H . TRICE
37 38 39 40 43 44 45 50 51 53 54 55 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 68 70 75
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
281
GRAND REPRESENTATIVES. Alabama W . ' . J O H N M . KINKEL. Alberta W / . P A U L M . MARTIN. Arizona W.".W. AMER BURNETT. California M.-.W.-.WILLIAM EASTON HUTCHISON. Canada W.-. HUBERT H. HUBBARD. Chile : W . - . F R E D ROY ALFORD. Colombia W.-.ELLSWORTH B . SEWELL, J R . Colorado W.-.LAUREN D . RIGG. Connecticut W.-. CLARENCE R . ATEN. Costa Rica R.-. W.-. CHARLES N . FOWLER. Cuba W.-.RoY H . CLOSSEN. Delaware W . - . E L M E R S. NANCE. District of Columbia R.-. W.-.FERRIS M . H I L L . Ecuador W.-.JAY B . KIRK. England R.-. W.-.ALBERT K . WILSON. Florida M.-.W.-.ELMER F . STRAIN. Guatemala W.-.LUCIEN L . CONSTANT. Idaho W.-.STEPHEN A. D. GEAUQUE. Indiana M . - . W . - . O W E N J. WOOD. • Ireland W.-.JOHN DAVIS. Louisiana W.-. HOMER T . HARDEN. Maine , M.-.W.-.RICHARD E . BIRD. Maryland..... W.-. MOSES H . COLE. Mexico (York Grand Lodge) ..R.-. W.-.ALBERT K . WILSON. Michigan W.-. GEORGE T . MOHRBACHER. Missouri M.-.W.-.PERRY M . HOISINGTON. Montana W.-.JAMES H . BEBGLE. Nebraska W.-.EARL T . PYLE. New Brunswick W.-. HARRY E. PEACH. New Jersey W/.GuY W. BROWN. New York W.-. GEORGE F . BEEZLEY. New Zealand ;.. W.-. FRANK E. DAVIS. North Carolina W.-.R. NELSON LONG. Nova Scotia M.-.W.-.JOHN MCCULLAGH. Oregon W.-. CHARLEY B ; ERSKINE. Panama W.-.JAMBS A. CASSLER. Philippine Islands W.-.RoY G. SHEARER. Prince Edward Island W.-. MARION M . MILLER. Puerto Rico M.-.W.-.WILLIAM L . BURDICK. Queensland M.-.W.-.ELRICK C . COLE.. Rhode Island R.-. W.-. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH. Saskatchewan W.-.JOHN B . FLEMING. Scotland W.-. HARVEY 0 . DAVIS. South Australia W.-. RICHARD W. EVANS. South Carolina W.-.OTTO R . SOUDERS. South Dakota.. M.-.W.-.CHARLES A. LoucKS.
282
PROCEEDINGS
Tasmania Texas Vermont Victoria Virginia Washington West Virginia Western Australia... Wisconsin
OF THE
February,
M.-.W.-.BEN S . PAULEN. M.' W.-. GILES H . LAMB. M.' W.-. HENRY F . MASON. W.-. CLARENCE M . CROSBY. W.-.BARLUS ROMSTEDT. -. W.-. STANFORD M;-SMART.
R.-. W.-.JOHN W . NEILSON. M.-.W.-.THOMAS G . FITCH. W.-. GUY R . CURRIER: PAST MASTERS.
0. CARL JENSEN No. BENJAMIN P.. H E I S HOLMES W . HAVILAND .... P H I L I P EUGENE STOTLER.. JAMES E . PORTER CHARLES L . H I X O N FRANK E . DAVIS LANDON C . ALLEN WALTER S . H U F F LiNDLEY L . L E F L E R PAUL A. LANGE JOHN H . PARKER ALBERT M . CURRY H E N R Y NOTHDORF ELMER MCCOOL EDWARD FRASER CHARLES G . W E S T EARL E . FAWCETT HARRY E . PEACH ERNEST V. LINDAMOOD... BRICK P. D A V I S EDWARD W . CLARKE JOHN HOSKINSON ,. JACOB LUND ARTHUR J. RHODES DwiGHT E. COOK GEORGE W . MCCLELLAND NATHAN B . THOMPSON BERT W . K R A F F JAMBS B . DONCYSON JOHN M . CLEVELAND PARDEE A. H O W E FREDERICK A. REHKOPF.. GEORGE M . EAGLE FRANCIS A . S T E V E N S HARRISON.W. REHKOPF....
2 2 3 3 3 5 5 6 8 8 9 9 9 9 10 10 12 12 12 12 14 14 14 16 16 16 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 17
CHESTER B . R E E D No. GEORGE L . TUER HERBERT E . JULIEN SAMUEL E . FERGUSON GEORGE HAKMAN ARTHUR. M. GARDNER LISLE W . CHAMBERS MARION M . MILLER FRANK D . MATHIAS JOHN H . OSBORN HENRY W . MAUNEY WILLIAM T . CAVENDER.... BERT WILLIAMS MELVIN J. THOMPSON RAYMOND A. NEVIN GEORGE M . COPLIN JAY B . KIRK CHARLES W . GARRISON... HARRY V. COCHRAN LLOYD J . COCHRAN ROBERT M . FORBES LINCOLN H . NEISWENDER AMBROSE P. HOWELL GUY K I E N E FRANK L . STEVENS W I L L C . CHAFFEE ELLSWORTH B.'SEWELL, J R . CLINTON D . HAKT FRANK W. MILLS SNOWDEN D . FLORA EVAN DAVIS CHESTER E . JOSS WILLIAM P. ROOT WILLIS COATES WILLIAM R . CARRIE •JOHN A. STEINMEYER
17 17 19 19 ?A 23 24 26 29 29 32 32 34 34 35 37 38 44 50 50 50 50 50 50 51 51 51 51 51 51 51 51 51 51 51 52
1925-26.
GRAND LODGE OF
GROVER C . URB.\NSKY No. CHARLES D E FOREST OLLIE J. WOODMAN VERNON T . NICHOLSON.... RICHARD H . CRAVENS CHARLES F . TRINKLE WALTER D . MILLER GEORGE P. HART ROBERT H . MONTGOMERY TAYLOR M . BAUER ERNEST R . NELSON DANIEL A. MOSKAU B E N C . BARTH JAMBS A. WILLIAMS JOHN M . PLEASANT JOSEPH F . SEYMOUR WINSTON Z . M C K E A N ARTHUR J. WHITMORE FRANK E . BLOOD GEORGE BURNS EDWARD SHIVELY OLIVER M . ANDERSON CHARLES O. VARNER OPHER L . ENGLE JOHN M . FITCH CHARLES A. REMY JAMES ALLEN CHESTER A. BUELL JAMBS H. MURRBLL WERNER G . OPPERMAN....
52 53 53 56 60 61 62 62 63 64 64 64 64 65 66 68 68 69 70 70 70 72 74 79 80 80 90 90 90 90
O. PoRTis DAVIS
90
ROBERT C . CALDWELL WILLIAM NELSON HENRY G . BUECHNER FERDINAND VOILAND ROBERT H A W K I N S . . . IRVIN L . OTTO GEORGE T . MOHRBACHER OSCAR B . WOOLLEY RUDOLPH J . BROTHERSON JOHN P. J. HOVEY WILBUR E . BOBBINS OSCAR L . MOORE FRED W . SMITH HOMER T . HARDEN OTTO R . SOUDERS JAMES F. MCCOY L E O C . COXEY
90 90 90 90 91 91 91 93 96 96 97 98 99 99 99 99 100
KANSAS.
THEODORE P. PERRY No. JAMES M . JACOBY JOHN D ! GIBSON LEWIS N . GIBSON ELLIS F I N K IVAN E . GENTRY CHARLES E. VAN VLECK.. THOMAS H . ATTERBURY... WILLIAM S . ATTERBURY.. ROBERT GOOD JOHN DAVIS IRVING P. BELDEN EARL T . PYLE JOHN M . K I N K E L ALFRED E . NOONAN JOHN A. HETZEL CHARLES F . HUTTON WILLIAM S . D I X ALBERT D . MORRISON FRED W. K N A P P EARL L . MAGATHAN RALPH E . POWERS RODDIE SWAN JOHN B . R U L E CHARLES P . BRADING BERTINB P . WALKER E L I B . ROADHOUSE OLCOTT W . LITTLE LOUIS B . BURT JONATHAN T . SHORT CHARLES H . BROWN WILLIAM W . KENDALL HARRY E . SUTTON LUCIAN L . CONSTANT LEONARD C . UHL, J R LEONARD C . UHL, SR HERBERT R . HULL JOHN E . STOWELL RAYMOND C . HANSON JOHN SWANSON SIDNEY R . COLE IRWIN C. MCDOWELL GEORGE W . TROUT DONALD F . BURLIN EDWARD D . SCHILLING .... WILLIAM H E Y N E N . . . S. CLYDE STEWART JOHN F . WYA'TT
283 102 107 109 109 110 110 Ill Ill Ill 125 129 130 134 140 140 142 142 142 146 146 147 147 147 158 158 160 160 161 161 164 164 169 171 173 174 174 175 179 179 182 184 184 187 189 190 190 193 194
84
PROCEEDINGS
CHARLES W . MILLER No. F R E D J. WAGNER HARVEY O. DAVIS ROBERT P. MCCOLLOCH.. MOSES H . COLE GRAFTON D . WHITAKER .. GEORGE C . L E I N E N EMERSON B . W E L L S THOMAS J. W E S T JOHN H. CLARK RICHARD W . EVANS CLARENCE G . N E V I N S WILLIAM J. DAVIES CLARENCE R . ATEN FRANK S. CRANE SAMUEL ALEXANDER GEORGE F . R E E S WILLIAM C . CARTLIDGE.... JAMES NELSON VICTOR S. BOUTWBLL GEORGE W . BAINTER S A D L I B R J . HODGINS LOUIS R . VESPER HOMER B . F I N K FRANK L . STURGES RAY W . M C K E N Z I E JAMES F . AYRES GEORGE H . M O S S CLARK C . THOMAS CHESTER A. CARTER FRED W. H A W K ERNEST C . SMITH ROBERT D . BLAINE J. FRANK BATES FRED A. FISHER HENRY L . GAMES ARTHUR H . STRICKLAND.. ALVA L . SWEARINGEN WILLIAM L . JOHNSON FRANK P. STRICKLAND WILLIAM H . BOSTON GEORGE W . WILEY WILLIAM C . PRICE R U E L V. BUTCHER CHARLEY B . ERSKINE WILLIAM R . WARING ROBERT T E L F E R ALFRED A. PETERSON
195 195 200 200 206 212 214 220 221 222 222 222 222 222 225 225 225 225 225 225 225 225 225 225 225 226 232 242 245 246 246 252 265 266 266 269 272 272 272 272 273 275 278 282 283 288 288 288
OF THE
February,
JOSEPH C . HART No. JOSEPH H . LEISENRING.... HADDOCK W . LANE BENJAMIN F . DUNKIN JOHN LYTLE MOTS WEISDORFER CARL G . EDDY WILLIAM A. THOMPSON.... F R E D M . THOMPSON ARCH S. RAYBOURN CLEMENT H . WRIGHT CLYDE E . BEYMER CHARLES R . PETERSON.... ROBERT COLEMAN CHARLES A. PROBST RALPH D . H I L L OSCAR L . KISTLER WILLIAM G . KELLBY PETER J. CLEVENGER HAROLD CHRIST ALEXANDER L E E JAMES T . FOWLER CLARE C . CAVIN RUSSELL M . REYNOLDS....
289 297 300 303 305 305 306 307 307 310 311 312 321 322 322 326 326 326 326 326 327 329 330 338
FRANK A. McIvoR
348
WILLIAM M . GLENN EARL H . ADAMS CHARLES A. SMITH JOHN A. CORDELL L E W I S G . GIPPLB D. CLARKE KELLY CHARLES C . MCMURRAY JOE D E MAIN N E L S D . SWBNSON STANFORD M . SMART BENJAMIN F . SHOOP ROGER C . TOMPKINS OSCAR A. BROWN EDSON J. LUNGER , ABRAHAM PETERS JAMES B . PORTER GARRETT E . SHEARER ROY BAIRD CHARLES A. WELLS L A VELLE C . HICKS EDGAR W . INGRAM GEORGE F . BABB
'
352 354 356 356 357 366 369 371 374 378 379 382 383 393 399 406 414 414 420 424 433 436
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
285
LODGE REPRESENTATIVES. Smithton No. 1.—JOSEPH
L . ALLEN, J. W., proxy for M.;
PAUL H .
GUTHRIE, proxy for S. W. Leavenworth No. 2.—JOSEPH
R . SHAWHAN, M . ; CHARLES R . MOORE,
S. W.; CARL JENSEN, proxy for J. W. Wyandotte No. 3.—THOMAS B . W E B B , M . , proxy for J. W.; DAVID H . VANCE, S . W . Kickapoo No. i.—EARL C . YOAKUM, M . , proxy for S. W.; JAMES F . JEFFREY, J. W. Washington No. 5.—SAMUEL W . CONNOR, M . ; CHARLES L . HIXON, proxy for S. W.; WILLIAM J. LAUFFER, proxy for J. W. Lawrence No. 6.—GUY M . PENNOCK, M . , proxy for J. W.; JAMBS A. NAISMITH, S . W . . Union No. 7.—JAMES E . VANDERVOET, M . ; JAMES SANDERLIN, S . W . ; CHARLES MAYER, proxy for J. W. Rising Sun No. 8.—WALTER
S . H U F F , proxy for M.;
GEORGE W . CAS-
SELL, proxy for S. W. and J. W. Acacia No. 9.—ERNEST
E . FELLERS, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W.
King Solomon No. 10.—DANIEL
REILLY, M . ; WAYLAND W . BENNETT,
S. W.; D E W I T T P . WRIGHT, J. W. Jewell No. 11.—ELNATHAN
B . GRAY, J. W., proxy for M.;
HARVE
PRANK, proxy for S. W. Emporia No. 12.—ROBERT
HARDY BEACH, M . ; FRED J. BROWN, S . W . ;
EARL R . WEIMER, J. W. Nemaha No. 13.—BRYAN J. CLEMENS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Oskaloosa No. 11,.—JOSEPH C . HANNAH, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Great Bend No. 15.—JOSEPH
E . MCMULLEN,
M . , proxy for J. W.;
XOPHARIE L . WEISENBERGER, proxy for S. W. Lafayette No. 16.—JAMES
W . MCCOLLOCH, M . ; FRANK A. BLAKSLEE,
S. W.; RALPH W. CALLAHAN, J. W. Topeka No. 17.—GEORGE
R . CAROTHERS, M . ; PERCY L . REED, S . W .
SCOTT E . KELSBY, J. W. Ottawa No. 18.—FRED A. ROUGHER, M . ; LOUIE C . MATHIS, S . W . JOHN P. KELLER, proxy for J. W. Olathe No. 19.—LLOYD R . HERSHEY, M . ; ELMER L . GALLAWAY, S . W . WARREN H . ROSENBURY, proxy for J. W. Cirdeville No. 20.—JAMES G . BLACKFORD, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Valley Falls No. 21.—HERBERT A. MURRAY, S . W . , proxy for M.; EMIL 0 . GUTSCH, J. W. Melvern No. 22.—HOWARD K . WOODBURY, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W.
286
PROCEEDINGS
Palmyra No. 23.—HUGH
February,
P . HARTLEY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J , W.
Osage Valley No. 21,.—CHARLES .
OF THE
G . BROWN, S . W . , proxy for M. and
J. W.
Longton No. 26.—MARION Pacific No. 29.—JOHN
M . MILLER, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
H . OSBORN, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Towanda No. 30.—JOEL
E . DAVIS, M . , proxy for J. W.; NAPOLEON L .
R E E D , proxy for S. W. Auburn
No.
32.—HAROLD
D . GARWOOD, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Havensville No. 3i..^-RoY Hiawatha
No.
CHANNEL, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
S5.—CHARLES
M . HOLMAN,
M . , proxy for S. W.;
FLETCHER HARRIS, J. W. Paola No. 37.—JAMES
F . BRANDON, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W.
lola No. 38.—CLARENCE
A. HUBBARD, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Seneca No. 39.—EDWIN
BUEHLER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
De Soto No. JfO.—WILLIAM H . DENT, S. W . , proxy for M. and J. W. Holton No. Jf2.—CLAUDE E . BUTRUM, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Nickerson No. JfS.—PERCE D . THORP, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Easion No. i.5.—ERNEST
C . GRAY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Xenia No. Jt7.—OLIVER H . BROWNING, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W. Mackey No. ^S.—CHARLES F . STUTZ, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Nine Mile No. U9.—WILLIAM R . DOHRN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Lake No. 50.—WILLARD
A. MATTMILLER, M . ; RAYMOND R . N E I S -
WENDER, J. W., proxy for S. W. Orient No. 51.—IVOR
E. DAVIS, M . ; CHESTER L . WOODINGTON, S. W . ;
LYMAN A. CORLIS, J. W. Pottawatomie No. 52.—GROVER
C . URBANSKY, proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. Wetmore No. 53.—L. RoscoB MOORE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Shawnee No. 5U.—FRED A. MITCHELL, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W. Troy No. 55.—FRANK
H . DILLENBACK, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Spring Hill No. 56.—DURAH McCracken No. 58.—EDWARD
W . WATT, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W. J. FLETCHER, M . , proxy for J. W.; B E N -
JAMIN P . STEINSHOUER, proxy for S. W. Salina No. 60.—SAMUEL
M . BOND, M . ; VICTOR H . NORDLUND, S . W . ;
ARTHUR C. FAGBRSTROM, proxy for J. W. La Cygne No. 61.—ROY ,
G . MCCARTY, M . ; DON D . GOWING, S . W . ;
R O Y A . GLUCKLICH, proxy for J. W.
Ridgeway No. 62.—WILSON R . COFFMAN, M . ; CLIFFORD C . O'BRYHIM,. S. W.; BENJAMIN VINCENT, J. W -
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
Adams No. 63.—CLARENCE
OF KANSAS.
GORE, M . , proxy for S. W.;
287 FRANK R .
FARRIS, proxy for J. W. Wathena No. 6U.—WILLIAM
A. BAUMAN, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Gardner No. 65.—CARL
HARRIS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Frankfort No. 67.—HENRY Hiram No. 68.—ANGELO
KENNEDY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. N . ALONZO, M . ; WINSTON J. M C K E A N , proxy
for S. W.; JOSEPH F . SEYMOUR, proxy for J. W. Altamont No. 69.—MERRILL
F . LUMAN, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Carbondale No. 70.—JOSHUA
B . HEWITT, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Huron No. 72.—OLIVER
M . ANDERSON, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Chetopa No. 73.—ROLLIN
J. CONDERMAN, S. W . , proxy for M. and J. W .
Mystic Tie No. 71,.—STANLEY
E . AYRES, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Wamego No. 75.—CHARLES L . BLANCHARD, M . ; RAY HILL, J R . , S . W . ; JULIUS A. M C M I L L A N , J. W. Delta No. 77.—^JAMES A. JORDAN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Corinthian No. 79.—WYATT
C . WILKIN, M . ; HARRY T . BEALE, S . W . ;
JAMES L . MILLER, J. W . Zeredatha No. 80.—WILLIAM
.
B . PENNY, proxy for M.;
HENRY H .
GiESE, S. W.; CHARLES A. REMY, proxy for J. W. Doric No. 83.—FRED
J. PAPENHAUSEN, proxy for M.; OTTO A. DuRR,
S. W., proxy for J. W. Jefferson No. 8U.—GEORGE W . SWOGER, M . , proxy for J. W.; J. HARRY RILEY, proxy for S. W. Sunflower No. 86.—CHARLES
I. MORRIS, M . ; JOHN P . COLVIN, proxy
forS. W.; GEORGE R. PARROTT, J. W. Mankato No. 87.—EUGENE
C . GREENE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Eureka No. 88.—CLINTON
E . CRAIG, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Home No. 89.—CHARLES
E . DRUMM, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Golden Rule No. 90.—ROY
M . SLAYBAUGH, M . ; CLARENCE E . MAUNEY,
S. W.; RUDY F . NASH, J. W. Marysville No. 91.—ROBERT
HAWKINS, proxy for M.; IRVIN L . OTTO,
proxy for S. W.; FRANK OLSON, J. W. Devon No. 92.—J. WESLEY SMITH, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Girard No. 93.—OSCAR B . WOOLLEY, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Harmony No. 91,.—ALBERT L . WELLS, M . , proxy for S. W.; JOHN L . EDWARDS, proxy for J. W. Constellation No. 95.—JOHN
K . FRATER, S. W . , proxy for M.; WILLIAM
O. STARNS, proxy for J. W. Delaware No. 96.—CHARLES
H . HANCE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Pdtmos No. 97.—HARRY K . LORENZ, M . ; LEON L . COUSLAND, proxy for S. W.; WILBUR C . ROBBINS, proxy for J. W.
288
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Benevolent No. 98.—OLIN R . STROWIG, M . ; RAY B . MILLER, S . W . ; WILLIAM K . PHILLIPS, J. W. Wichita No. 99.—JOHN
H. DOWNING, M . ; CHARLES M . ULSH, S . W . ;
RAYMOND G . SHELLEY, J. W. Prudence No. 100.—JOHN
H . HAMILTON, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Euclid No. 101.—JOHN
S. LANE, J. W., proxy for M . and S. W.
Keystone No. 102.—THEODORE
P. PERRY, proxy for M. and J . W.;
R O Y H . CLOSSEN, proxy for S. W. Frontier No. 10^.—JOHN
E . GILLETT, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
Solomon City No. 105.—NEWMAN
E . HALL, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Fortitude No. 107.—JAMES
M . JACOBY, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Winfield No. 110.—Louis
F. HEYDECKER, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Hesperian No. 111.—ORBIE
M . BINNEY, M . , proxy for S. W.; CHARLES
E. VAN VLECK, proxy for J. W. Blue Valley No. 112—JOSEPH
G . CHITTY, S . W . , proxy for M. and
J. W. St. John's No. 113.—BRYANT
E . THURSTON, M . , proxy for S. W. and
j;. w. Parsons No. 117.—HARRY Cherokee No. 119.—JOHN
R . WIDMER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. PARK, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W.
Halcyon No. 120.—OLIVER
KORNHAUS, M . , proxy for J . W . ;
ANDREW
P . FosT. S. W. Clifton No. 122.—EDWARD
J. MCQUILLEN, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J.W. Palestine No. 127.—ARTHUR
ROBERTS, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
Munden No. 128.—EDWARD
J. BROSH, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Belleville No. 129.—GEORGE
A. GREGG, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Equity No. 131.—RALPH Carson No. 132.—DANIEL
MATHEWS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. S . OTEY, S . W . , proxy for M.; FRANK A.
QuiGG, proxy for J. WCrescent No. 133.—CHARLES
R . LUSK, M . ; CHARLES R . GILLILAND,
S. W.; FRANK O . HERBERT, proxy for J. W. Clay Center No. ISi.—EMIL KRATOCHVIL, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. . Lenexa No. 135.—EDWARD BRADSHAW, M . , proxy for J. W.; CLARKE L. SWITZER, S. W . Cherryvale No. 137.—CHARLES J. W.
W . MITCHELL, S . W . , proxy for M. and
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
Sedgwick No. 139.—EDWARD
OF KANSAS.
289
DUNKELBERGER, M . , proxy for S. W.
a n d J . W. Reno No. HO.—JOHN
S . RIGG, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Signal No. H.1.—ROY
D . YOUNGROOT, S . W . , proxy for M.;
PERRY
G. MCCRAY, J. W . Newton No. 11,2.—CHARLES B . MILLHAM, M . ; ROY C . MOLZEN, proxy for S. W.; GEORGE D . DESCHNER, J. W. Minneapolis
No. 11,3.—RICHARD N . ALLAN, proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. Mt. Vernon No. 11,5.—MELVIN
R . GUARD, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J . W. Ellsworth No. 11,6.—JOHN WILLIAM KINCAID, S. W . , proxy fox M. and J. W. Center No. 11,7.—RODDIE SWAN, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Wa-Keeney No. 11,8.—WILLIAM E . DILLINGER, M . , proxy for S: W. and J. W. Thayer No. 11,9.—WILLIAM A. WALT, M . , proxy for S. W.; EDWIN C . EAGLES, proxy for J. W. Wellington No. 150.—ARTHUR
J. GARDNER, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Douglass No. 151.—OTHA
V. JEWELL, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Leho No. 152.—MCKINLEY Luray No. 153.—FRANK
R E I D , M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. W . L E E , M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Lincoln No. 15!,.—EARNEST Active
No.
R . LIGGETT, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
158.—WERNER
BLAINE
LEVIN,
M.;
THOMAS
SAMUEL
BEADING, S . W . ; LESLIE WILSON LONG, J. W. Robinson No. 159.—FRED
B . COGSWELL, M . , proxy for J. W.;
LOUIS
FENERBACHER, S . W . Saqui No. 160.—CHARLES
H . BELL, proxy for M.;
JAMES A. BELL,
proxy for S. W.; E L I ROADHOUSE, proxy for J. W. Alma No. ifii.—JERRY B . FIELDS, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Sabetha No. 162.—J. D R E X BURKE, M . , proxy for S. W.; GEORGE A. ALLEN, J R . , proxy for J. W. Atwood No. 161,.—PAUL BROWN, M . ; CHARLES H . BROWN, proxy for S. W.; JONATHAN T . SHORT, proxy for J. W. Oxford No. 165.—THOMAS M . COPELAND, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Farmers No. 166.—K. N E I L PFUETZE, M . ; ELMER NORDSTROM, S . W . ; CHARLES A, HELLER, proxy for J. W. Lamed
No. 167.—RICHARD
H . BROWNE, proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. Blue Rapids No. 169.—ORIN
L . SHORT, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
290
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Sterling No. 171.—CHARLES WBLTY DAVIP, M . ; JOHN LEONARD SELFRIDGE, S . W . ; GEORGE H . SUTTON, proxy for J. W. McPherson No. 172.—WILLIAM J. W. .
T . VESPER,
M . , proxy for S. W. and
Belle Plaine No. 173.—DENVER C . CUSEY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Western Star No. 17Jf—VIRGIL E . BARGER, M . ; L . GLEN WOLFE, S. W.;
HILARY D . MAHIN, J. W.
Kirwin No. - Z 7 5 . ^ R O B E R T P. ROYCE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Russell No. i 77.—GAILE F . WALLIS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Mt. Moriah No. 179.—SOLOMON HOGE, M . , proxy f o r S . W. and J. W. Bennington No. 180.—GEORGE
M . DIVELBESS, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Lenora No. 181.—CHESTER
M . LARSON, S . W . , proxy for M.;
CARL
E. GEORGESON, proxy for J. W. Burrton No. 182.—JOHN
SWANSON, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Phillipsburg No. 18k-—RoscoE W. SCOTT, M . , proxy for J. W.; THEODORE CLOSE, proxy for S. W. Hamlin No. 185.—LOUIS
N . REAGAN, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Pittsburg No. 187.—WALTER
HIGDON, M . ; WILLIAM W . BEINE, proxy
for S. W.; HERBERT J. KEMPSTER, proxy for J. W. Onaga No. 188.—ARMAND
L . P I N E T , M . , proxy for S. W.; FRANK E .
W I N G , J. W. Newachuba No. 189.—-CARL F . COOPER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Henri No. 190.—JAMES
M . MOTT, M . , proxy for J. W.;
HIRAM M .
COX, proxy for S. W. Walnut Valley No. 191.—EDWIN
M . FISHER, M . , proxy for S. W. arid
J. W. Royal No. 192.—LAWRENCE
GRAY, M . , proxy for S. W.; WILLIAM D .
SMITH, J. W. Hartford No. 193.—ADOLPH proxy for S. W.; Galena No. 19U.—MELVIN Hays No. 195.—FRED
R . KLITZING, M . ; CHARLES B . SHULL,
MARINS J. LALOUETTE, J. W . E . NEELEY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
J. WAGNER, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Madison No. 196.—SAMUEL H . GREEN, M . , proxy for S . W . and J. W. Canton No. 197.—ALBERT
J. MILLER, M . ; WALTER J. LINSENMEYER,
S. W.; JOHN J . EHMAN, J. W . Norton No. 199.—JosN
J. RECHT, M . , proxy for S. W.;
HARRY V.
K N A P P , J. W. Anthony No. 200.—HARVEY
0 . DAVIS, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Mulvane No. 201.—WILLIAM C . ROBINSON, J R . , proxy for M. and J. W.; SAM F . KIMBLE, proxy for S. W.
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
Sumner No. 203.—HAROLD
OF KANSAS.
291
A. HAMMOND, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Downs No. 20lt.—NATHAN
F . WINTERS, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Eminence
No. 205.—WILLIAM
A. HAKES, M . ; JOHN W . SCHAFER,
proxy for S. W.; WILLIAM MONTGOMERY, J. W. Harper No. 206.—HARRY
RUSSELL, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Occidental No. 207.—-CLARENCE L . BARNT, S . W . , proxy for M. and
J. W. Greeley No. 211.—CHARLES
E . EVEY, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Olive Branch No. 212.—OREL
F . GOODELL, M . , proxy for J. W.; JOSH
E. MATTOX, proxy for S. W.
Twin Grove No. 213.—HUGH
T . FERGUSON, M., proxy for J. W.;
EDWIN G . ARNOLD, S. W . Sincerity No. 21 It.—GEORGE C . LEINEN, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Ellinwood No. 217.—WILLIAM
BOCK, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Corner Stone No. 219.—CHARLES
E . WARD, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Lewis No. 220.—WILLIAM
H . QUIPP, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Lebanon No. 221.—THOMAS J. WEST, proxy for M.; EDWIN T. OLSON,
S. W., proxy for J. W. St. Bernard No. 222.—EDWARD
•
0 . THOMPSON, M . , proxy for S. W. arid
J. w:
Joppa No. 223.—LAUREN
D . RIGG, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Anchor No. 22k.—ARTHUR
R . D E H N , M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Siloam No. 225.—ERNEST
R . AMBROSE, M . ; SIDNEY S . JANE'S, S. W . ;
P. HAROLD GROPF, J . W . Dirigo No. 226.—RAY W . MCKENZIE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Jamestown No. 227.—LYLE
V. BUMGARDNER, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Salem No. 228.—WALTER Vulcan No. 229.—ELRA Ninnescah
B . BRADLEY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. L . ROBISON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
No. 230.—CLIFFORD
G . MILLER,
M . , proxy for S. W.;
VIRGIL E . REED, proxy for J. W. Long Island No. 231.—WILLIAM
CLYDE ROGERS, M . , proxy for S. W.
and J. W. Greenleaf No. 232.—MATHEW Garfield No. 235.—CHARLES
THINNES, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. B . MEYER, M . , proxy for J. W.; ALMON
H. CHAFFEE, proxy for S. W. Meriden No. 236.—JOHN
YORK, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Temple No. 237.—LOUIE G . STAINKE, M . , proxy for S. W.; R. OSBORNE BAKER, proxy for J. W.
292
PROCEEDINGS
Mount Hope No. 238.—CARL
OF THE
February,
D . ADAMS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Soldier No. 21,0.—RAYMOND H . FISKE, M . , proxy for S. W.;
BERT
ANDERSON, proxy for J. W. Millonvale No. 21,2.—CHARLES G . FURY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Peace No. 21,3.—WALTER
M . BRALY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Tyrian No. 21,6.—FRED W . HAWK, proxy for M. and J. W.;
CHESTER
A. CARTER, proxy for S. W. Chase No. 21,7.—ROBERT
R . BARNGROVER, S . W . , proxy for M. and
J. W. Scottsville No. 21,9.—LESTER
L . S H A M B U R G , M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Whiting No. 250.—FRANKE.
CLELAND, M . ; IRVING P . BELDEN, proxy
for S. W.; WILMAN R . BENDER, proxy for J. W. Galva No. 251.—JOHN
MEISINGER, proxy for M. and S. W.;
HARRY
H. INGALLS, proxy for J. W. Stafford No. 252.—ALVA L . SOICE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Oakley No. 253.—CHARLES Ionic No. 251,.—OWEN
F . PRICE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
J. GABBERT, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Morton No. 258.—OSCAR
S . PIPKIN, M . ; WILLIAM C . PRICE, proxy
for S. W.; ROBERT E . KRATZER, proxy for J. W. Mulberry No. 261.—CHARLES
B . BRAYMAN, proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. Charity No. 263.—HARRY
R . BARNES, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W;
Mount Zion No. 266.—ERNEST
E . NICHOLS, M . ; CHARLIE M . COON,
S. W.; HERBERT C . CADWELL, J. W. Moline No. 267.—ROY
CROFT, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Bourbon No. 268.—ILBERT
E . BURNETT, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Mistletoe No. 269.—HOMER
BOOTH HUNT, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Quenemo No. 270.—LELAND
A. MILLER, proxy for M.;
WILLIAM O .
BOSTON, S . W . , proxy for J. W. Armourdale No. 271.—CHARLES
W . JOHNSON, M . ; JAMES PENNYWELL,
proxy for S. W.; HAROLD N . NICHOLS, J. W. Kaw No. 272.—GLEN
L . COWGER, M . ; JOSEPH H . WEBER, S. W . ;
JAMES W . SKAGGS, J . W . Black Diamond No. 271,.—PETER
H . WHITE, proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. Webb No. 275.—JonN C. BRADEN, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Cosmos No. 278.—PIERSON
H . GRISWOLD, J. W., proxy for M. and
S. W. Barney No. 279.—WILLIAM
B . MARLIN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Millbrook No. 281.—WILLARD
BROWN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
1925-26.
GRAND
Alpha No. 282.—ROY
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
293
SOVBRN, M . ; MORRIS A. T E E D , proxy for S. W.;.
GEORGE P. MARTIN, proxy for J. W. Preston No. 283.—WALTER
C . BEAN, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
Anthem No. 28If.—JAMES
B . MORRIS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Argonia No. 285.—JOHN
A. JEFFRIES, J R . , M . , proxy for
S. W. and
J. W. Oak No. 287.—RAYMOND
C GUISE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Cyrus No. 288.—HOMER
G . BEARNES, M . , proxy for J. W.;
WILLIAM'
R. WARING, proxy for S. W. Emerald No. 289.—RALPH
E . THORPE, M . , proxy for S. W.;
FRANCIS
L. PIERCE, proxy for J. W. Paradise No. 290.—LEROY
A. EADS, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
Beulah No. 291.—WALTER
E . HOPE, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Kiowa No. 293.—OLIVER
M . SMITH, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Glen Elder No. 29U.—CHARLES
J. MINGER, M . , proxy for J. W.; LARK
B. BBELER, S . W . Highland No. 296.—ORIAL
F . NEWTON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Apollo No. 297.—ROBERT
G . MARKELL, J. W., proxy for M.; JOHN"
MCMAHON, proxy for S. W. Samaria No. 298.—JAMES
R . TRUITT, M . , proxy for J. W.;
HERMAN
C. WALTER, proxy for S. W. Cable No. 299.—AZEM
L . MINOR, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Fargo No. 300.—EARL
L . SMITH, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Hamilton No. 301.—ROBERT
B . PIATT, M . , proxy for J. W.;
MERLE
B. BEEVERS, S . W . Gove City No. 302.—HENRY
A. SPIKER, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Albert Pike No. 303.—KENNETH
M . K I E R , M . , proxy for S. W. and.
J. W. Avon No. 305.—JOHN
E . ELLISS, M . , proxy for J. W.; HARRY FRANK
• SUMMERS, S . W .
.
St. Thomas No. 306.—MAX W . SMITH, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Kansas No. 307.—RUSSELL
J. PATTERSON, M . , proxy for J. W.; VICTOR
C. KINGSBURY, proxy for S. W. Alden No. 308.—EARL
S . BROWN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Syracuse No. 309.—CARLTON B . GRISSOM, M . , proxy for J. W.; HARRY • E. WALTER, proxy for S. W. Naphtali No. 310.—ORVILLB
C . TIMMONS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W . '
Hancock No. 311.—CLEMENT
H . WRIGHT, M . ; WILLIAM A. WEIKAMP^
proxy for S. W.; THOMAS E . SWAIN, J. W . Santa Fe No. 312.—FRANK
MCCOY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Severance No. 313.—ALVIN J. W.
MYRON DENTON, S . W . , proxy for M. and
294
PROCEEDINGS
Virginia
No. 315.—RAY
OF THE
February,
MCDANIEL, M . , proxy for J. W.;
HENRY
C. PENNINGTON, proxy for S. W. Coolidge No. 316.—JOSEPH
H . CONRAD, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Norcatur No. 317.—CLINT
E . CARPER, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
Wallace No. 318.—LAWRENCE
0 . STANLEY, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Norwich No. 319.—HARRY Vermillion
R . POE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
No. 320.—DAVID
L . ANDERSON, S . W . , proxy for M. and
J. W. Goodland No. 321.—LEO
J. SCHISLER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Ben Hur No. 322.—FRED
WORKENTINE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Caney No. 32It.—CHARLES
C . BOWEN, M . , proxy for J. W.;
VOLNEY
H . HILFORD, proxy for S. W. La Harpe No. 325.—WALTON
A. RANSOM, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Horion No. 326.—^BEARL CONNER, M . ; OSCAR L . KISTLER, S . W . ; JESSE R . FRANKLIN, proxy for J. W. Arcadia No. 329.—THOMAS
H . DAVENPORT, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Hoisingion No. 331.—CLARENCE
E . FARNSWORTH, proxy for M., S. W.
and J. W. Rosedale No. 333.—GEORGE
A. H. STURHAHN, M . ; DAVID R . T R U E ,
S. W.; WILLIAM E . SAUNDERS, proxy for J. W. Oak Hill No. 35^.—NEAL D . LYNE, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W; Allen No. 335.—PERRY
L . PUTNAM, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Formosa No. 336.—JOHN
S . MAGNUSON, M . , proxy for J. W.;
DAVID
A. NYWALL, proxy for S. W. Frederick No. 337.—ROBERT Kincaid No. 338.—RUSSELL
L . GILLIAM, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. M . REYNOLDS, proxy for M. and S. W.;
MARL M . COLLINS, J. W. Lane No. 339.—BENJAMIN
L . CARTER, J. W., proxy for M.;
BART
NEEDHAM, proxy for S. W. Leoti No. SltO.—LEWIS L B R O Y WILSON, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Holyrood No. 3i3.—FRED Ashlar
CONROW, J R . , M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
No. 3U.—HAROLD
GOBLE, M . , proxy for J.
W.;
MERTON
C . M C G E E , M . , proxy for S. W.;
ULAR B .
OTTO, S . W . Edna
No. 3If5.—JAMES WOOLARD, J. W.
Moundridge No. 3U6.—ROY M . SMITH, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Spivey No. 3^7.—HARRY
M . BENNINGTON, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Hoxie No. S^S.—THOMAS B . CLARK, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
Scammon No. 351.—ROBERT Horace No. 352.—WILLARD
OF KANSAS.
295
PAYNE, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. E . FERRELL, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W..
Summerfield No. 35lt.—JAMES
M . KENDALL, M . , proxy for S. W.; E A R L
H. ADAMS, proxy for J. W. Chautauqua No. 355.—MELVIN E . SHRADER, M . , proxy for S. W. a n d
J. W. Wellsville No. 356.—CHARLES
A. SMITH, proxy for M. and J. W.; JOHN:
A. CORDELL, proxy for S. W.
Alta Vista No. 357.—EWALD E . SHADE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.. Sylvan Grove No. 359.—JOSEPH
NOVAK, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W .
Jennings No. 360.—FAY BROCK, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W. Geneseo No. 361.—EVERETT
G . SHELLENBERGER, S . W . , proxy for M.
and J. W. Cuba No. 36Z.—JESSE
G . BACHELOR, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Powhattan No. 363.—DANIEL
A. ZIMMERMAN, proxy for M., S. W. and.
J. W. Valley Center No. 36lt.—LOUIS B . MUMA, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.. Boling No. 365.—WILLIAM
D . KENDELL, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.,
Bonner Springs No. 366.—WILLIAM
L . BURNAM, proxy for M., S. W^
and J. W. Roger E. Sherman No. 369.—JOHN
L . WOODS, M . , proxy for S. W.,'
FRED H . MERTEL, proxy for J. W.
Maple Hill No. 370.—JAMES W . THOMPSON, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Macksville No. 37i.r—EZEKIAL F . STEPHENS, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Morrill No. 373.—EDWIN
K . WHARTON, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Dwight No. 37U.—BENJAMIN
F . MEYERS, M . , proxy for J. W.;
KARL
DAY, S . W . Delavan No. 375.—ELVIN
W . STICE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Grand View No. 376.—GUY E . WARNER, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W. Zenda No. 378.—RALPH
M . . HARDER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Buffalo No. 379.—BENJAMIN Grainfield No. 381.—REGINALD Wilsey No. 382.—WILLIAM
F . SHOUP, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. S . HASS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. CLINTON MORRIS, M . ; EARL W . R A Y ,
proxy for S. W.; ROGER C . TOMPKINS, proxy for J. W. McDonald No. 383.—ARTHUR
E . LARSON, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Piper No. 385.—CLAIR
O . L . DUNBAR, M . ; INGWARD YOUNGER, proxy
for S. W.; GEORGE STEPHENSON, J. W. Emmett No.. 387.—WILLIAM
J. W.
T . JENKINS, M . , proxy for S. W. and
• 298
PROCEEDINGS OF THE
February,
Spearville No. 55S.—CORWIN H. MCMAHAN, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W. . Freeport No. 389.—Miho A. HARE, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Natoma No. 390.—JOHN CHRISTENSEN, M . , proxy for J. W.; WILLIAM F. HAASE, proxy for S. W. Sylvia No. 391.—GLENN C . MCCOMB, M . , proxy for J. W.; WALTER B. F E E , proxy for S. W. Mayetta No. 393.—LEROY MOORE, M . , proxy for J. W.; LEONARD L . SMITH, S. W .
Coats No. 39^.—RALPH HARROUFF, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Wakefield No. 396.—ELMER D . MALE, M . , proxy for S; W. and J. W. . Lindsborg No. 397.—RALPH H . ROBINSON, M . , proxy for S. W.; LEVI NORLING, proxy for J. W. Mullinville No. 399.—LAVEKNE KIRBY, M . , proxy for J. W.; ABRAHAM PETERS, proxy for S. W. Wakarusa No. 1^02.—RoscoE S. COLLINS, M . ; WILLIAM W . CARNINE,
proxy for S. W.; B E N S. GALBREATH, J . W. Benedict No. ifOS.—WILLIAM H . CAUBLE, M . , proxy for J. W.; LLOYD A. SPRAGUB, proxy for S. W. Saint Francis No. IfOJt.—HOWARD A. BEAR, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Jiensington No. i05.—J C WOODS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Hugoton No. ^06.—JAMES L . FRIER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Arma No. U08.—CLARENCE J. PICKERING, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. -Haviland No. 1^09.—JESSE O . SCANTLIN, M . ; PHILLIP H . PHILLIPS, JE;.. S. W.; EARL H . SWAIM, J. W.
"Quinter No. ^10.—HOWARD R . TURTLE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Ensign No. il3.—BENJAMIN L . YOUNG, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W. -Morland No. ^H.—JOSEPH M . NICHOLS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. iPerry No. Itl5.—WILLIAM E . CAIN, proxy for M. and J. W.; DALE STARK, S . W .
King David No. Jfl6.—VICTOR
D . MCGINLEY, M . , proxy for J. W.;
HARRY L . GRIGGS, proxy for S. W.
Codell No. U18.—WILLIAM T . WEAVERLING, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Delia No. il9.—CHARLES
P . W H I T E , M . ; HOWARD E . HOUCK, S . W . ;
P E T E R P. KOVAR, J. W. Lecompton No. i20.—FRED H . NACE, M . ; JOHN M . WATTS, S. W . ; GEORGE F . BAHNMAIER, proxy for J. W.
.Harveyville No. ^21.—COURT H . HOUSEWORTH, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE.OF
KANSAS.
•
297
Selden No. 423.—LEE R . CLARK, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Claflin No. -42^.—RENUS A. JORDAN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Cunningham No. U^7.—WiLBtJR A. LASH, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Burdick No. Jt29.—E. DAVID LINDE, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W. Bestor G. Brown No. JfSS.—WILLIAM
J. BAUERLE, S. W . , proxy for M.
and J. W. Rosalia No. ItSl,.—THEO
M . GLENN, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
Ulysses No. JfSS.—UoY E. CARTER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Overland Park No. -436.—7GEORGB P. BABB, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Enterprise No. Jt37.—OSCAR
E . LONDENE, M . ; HUGH E . WHIPKEY,
S. W.; ROBERT L . BALLANTYNE, J R . , proxy for J. W. West Gate No. i38.—EVERETT Johnson No. ^il.—CLARENCE
DILLON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. J. STEWART, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Rexford No. -4^2.—FRED HAWKINS, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Kanorado No. US.—OSCAR
W . HALL, M . , proxy for J. W.;
ROBERT
BINGHAM, S . W . Hutchinson No. US.—HAROLD
ENGLISH, M . ; OTTO PAINTER, proxy for
S. W.; JAMES C . O . MORSE, proxy for J. W. SatantdNo.
W.—LEWIS
O . STANLEY, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W. RECAPITULATION.
Grand Officers present Past Elective Grand Officers present Past Masters present
14 14 263
(Exclusive of any Grand or Past Elective Grand OfBcers or District Deputy Grand Masters.)
District Deputy Grand Masters present Representatives of Lodges present
50 509
(Exclusive of any Grand or Past Elective Grand OfBcers, District Deputy Grand Masters, or Past Masters.)
Total representation in Grand Lodge Grand Representatives present Number of^Lodges represented Number of ^Lodges not represented. Total number of Lodges on rolls
..850 52 331 115 446
Fraternally submitted, ROBERT H . MONTGOMERY, PHILIP EUGENE STOTLER, HENRY L . GAMES,
ROY H . CLOSSEN, GEORGE W . MCCLELLAND, Committee.
298
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
STANDING COMMITTEES. T h e M.-. W.'. G r a n d M a s t e r a n n o u n c e d t h e a p p o i n t m e n t of t h e following revised list of C o m m i t t e e s : On Credentials.—ROBERT H . MONTGOMERY, N O . 63, Oswego; PHILIP EUGENE STOTLER, No. 3 (residence, R. F. D. No. 2, Bethel); HENRY L . GAMES, N O . 269, Conway Springs; ROY H . CLOSSBN, No. 102, Coflfeyville; GEORGE W . MCCLELLAND, N O . 17, Topeka. On Reports of Grand Officers.—BEN S. PAULEN, N O . 95, Fredonia; JAY B . KIRK, N O . 38, lola; J. FORREST AYRES, N O . 232, Greenleaf; DwiGHT E. COOK, N O . 16, Manhattan; GEORGE HARMAN, N O . 21, Valley Falls. On Finance and Property.—EARL T . PYLE, N O . 134, Clay Center; HOMER B . FINK, NO. 225, Topeka; MOSES H . COLE, N O . 206, Harper; LuciAN L. CONSTANT, N O . 173, Belle Plaine; RICHARD W . EVANS, N O . 222, Dodge City. On Jurisprudence.—ELRICK C . COLE, N O . 15, Great Bend; JOHN MCCULLAGH, N O . 194, Galena; JOHN M . KINKEL, N O . 140 (residence, Topeka); CHARLEY B. ERSKINE, No. 283, Cimarron; OTTO R. SOUDERS, NO. 99, Wichita. On Chartered Lodges and Lodges U. D.—ELLSWORTH B . SEWELL, JR., N O . 51, Topeka; JOSEPH C . HART, N O . 289, Lakin; FRANK D . MATHIAS, N O . 29, Humboldt. On Correspondence.—ALBERT
K . WILSON, No. 51, Topeka.
On Necrology.—FRED E . BROOKS, No. 1 (residence, Marysville).
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
_
299
GRAND MASTER'S ADDRESS.
M.-. W.-. CHARLES A. LOUCKS delivered the following address, which, on order of R.-. W/. JOHN W . NEILSON, Deputy Grand Master, was referred to the Committee on Reports of Grand Officers: To the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas: BRETHREN:
I am happy to greet you on this the Seventieth Annual Communication of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas. The great pleasure which our coming together in this assemblage affords is coupled with a sense of profound gratitude to the Grand Architect of the Universe for His goodness . and blessings, and for His grace which permits this organization thus to meet for tha seventieth consecutive time. We come from the yarious sections and parts of our great commonwealth, from the farm and mine, from the office and shop arid mill. There are represented here various shades of opinion on the sundry subjects which occupy men's minds and challenge their thought and endeavor. But here, I think, we shall experience a sense of unity in the midst of diversity; ai)d we shall be conscious of the fact that we have come to promote the highest interests of the whole body, the Craft which we represent. It is good for us to be here. It is good for us to enjoy the fellowship of those who, however varied their opinions, occupations and activities in other lines of endeavor, are yet held together by the ties of brotherhood that bind us into one living whole. And here, as well as at all times, we should practice the art of spreading the cement of brotherly love and affection. Coming from a world whose civil, social, political and religious life is strained to the breaking point by radicalism and so-called advanced thought, we renew our faith in things that are enduring. The ancient Israelite delighted to walk about Zion, to feast his eyes on the strength and beauty of the temple, to observe its towers and bulwarks, and to meditate upon the story of its building. Each year, multitudes gathered there to behold the grandeur and the glory of that wonderful place. We are here that in the days of this session we may view again the structure in the building of which it is the privilege of each member of our Craft each day to have some part. In a sense, we shall "walk about Zion", observe its towers and bulwarks, its beauty and its glory. As we scan the work of the past year, we may be reminded that every man is a builder. Each day, he is building that which time will waste and bring to destruction or something that shall endure.
300
.
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
As you review t h e several items of the report that is herewith presented, the thought may arise that a considerable portion of our building has been of worthless material. The nature of the work of an executive officer and of his report necessarily calls attention to mistakes and errors until they seem to bulk large in our activities. We must not, however, forget the great body of patient laborers on the temple whose efforts have not attracted attention, although they are faithfully doing their appointed tasks according to the designs on the trestle board. Let us then bathe our hearts and minds in the spirit of optimism which comes from the sense of accomplishment, and from the knowledge of • being engaged in the building of a structure that stands through the years. In compliance with the law of our Most Worshipful Grand Lodge, I submit for your consideration the following report: NECROLOGY.
The Angel of^Death with his ever swinging scythe has taken his full toll of our membership. The record shows that during my term as Grand Master 839 brethren have laid down the working tools of life. It is with gratitude to the Grand Architect of the Universe that I am able to report that the official family has been spared. But it is with deep sorrow that I record the passing of two Past Grand Masters: On August 11, 1925, M.-. W.'. JAMES H . MCCALL, and on November 27, 1925, M.-. W.-. WILLIAM I. STUART. T O their memory and to t h a t
of the other brethren who have been called upon to answer the last summons, the Committee on Necrology will pay fitting tribute. GRAND ORATOR.
By-Law No. 21[^makes it my duty to select some brother to deliver an address before^the Grand Lodge during this Communication. Under that By-Law, I extended an invitation to Brother CHARLES GRAHAM DuNLAP, of Acacia Lodge No. 9, of Lawrence, to perform this service. The invitation having been accepted, you are urged to hear him at 2:00 o'clock^this- afternoon. LECTURERS.
In compliance with By-Law No. 38, I appointed W.". Brothers HARVEY O . DAVIS and STANFORD M . SMART, Lecturers, and instructed
them to attend the several District Meetings as per assignment. No words of mine are necessary to express the high regard in which these faithful and efficient brethren are held by the Craft. But I desire publicly to record my deep appreciation of their services, and I entertain the hope that they may be permitted long to continue their labors. SPECIAL C O M M I T T E E .
At the last Annual Communication, the M.'. W.'. Grand Master referred to subjects under the head of "Lodge Trials", "Balloting", "Courtesies Exchanged" and "Physical Qualifications". By your
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
301
action these matters were referred to a committee of three to be appointed by the incoming Grand Master for report at this Annual Communication. In conformity thereto I appointed M / . W / . JOHN McCuLLAGH, M.-.W.-. RICHARD E . BIRD and R.-.W.-.CHARLES N .
FOWLER, as such committee. STANDARDS,
Upon your direction, at the last Ani^ual Communication, the subject of "Standards", as mentioned by.thp Grand Master, was referred to the incoming Grand Master for action. I am happy to report that the discord complained of in Olathe Lodge No. 19 has been eliminated. The officers of the lodge have become proficient in the Work. They had thirty of their members in attendance at the District Meeting. To Hiawatha Lodge No. 35, I recommended that they have one of our Lecturers, which recommendation was concurred in. They procured the services of W.'. Brother HARVEY 0. DAVIS, and the obectionable features in their Work has been eliminated. SPECIAL A D D R E S S .
Masonic education is a matter of much importance and is so recognized in this Grand Jurisdiction. Some years ago a plan of education was mapped out and that plan is being carried out with gratifying success. In the carrying out of this plan three Special Addresses have been prepared by W.\ Brother ROBERT P. MCCOLLOCH. These have been productive of excellent results as read at District Meetings and in the several lodges. Brother MCCOLLOCH is to deliver the fourth address this afternoon. The subject: "Symbols and Symbolism". I bespeak for him your presence and your thoughtful attention. G R A N D REPRESENTATIVES.
Owing to the expiration of commissions, and by death, several vacancies have occurred in the office of both Grand Representative near other Grand Lodges and those near our Grand Lodge. Commissions have been issued from this Grand Lodge t o representatives in six foreign Grand Jurisdictions, and thirteen have been recommended as representatives of other Grand Jurisdictions near the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Kansas, and these have duly received their commissions as set forth in the report of the R.-.W.". Grand Secretary. FOREIGN RELATIONS.
Nothing has come to the notice of this office to mar our friendly relations with the several Grand Lodges with which we are in fraternal correspondence. Questions of interest to subordinate lodges or individual members have been handled with the following Grand Jurisdictions: California, Illinois, Iowa, Massachusetts, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, Washington, Arkansas and Minnesota.
302
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SOLICITATION OF FUNDS.
During the year there have been submitted to me several proposals of various kinds and character, some without authority from any Grand Lodge whatever, soliciting funds for proposed benevolent and charitable institutions, or asking that privilege of our Grand Lodge. All of these I have declined, believing that such funds as are available for such purposes can the better be handled and used for worthy objects within our own Grand Jurisdiction. SPECIAL DISPENSATIONS.
I liave refused many requests to issue special dispensations to waive the statutory time in conferring degrees. Only where it has been clearly shown that the brother was leaving the Grand Jurisdiction have I granted the request, save for one which was issued that a brother might be advanced to the Third Degree before entering a hospital for an operation. Besides these, I have issued several special dispensations to elect and install officers to fill vacancies, one to install officers at a time other than that prescribed by the statutes, and one to hold a Communication in other than their own hall. CORNER-STONES AND DEDICATIONS.
The Grand Lodge was convened in Special Communication several times during the year for the purpose of performing the ceremony of laying corner-stones or dedicating a hall. For a full report of these Communications reference is made to the minutes as shown in the report of the Grand Secretary. CHARITY.
As has been the custom in the past, arrangements were made to dispense the charity of the Grand Lodge through the Masonic Home Board. During the calendar year of 1925 sums aggregating $3,560.00 were expended for this purpose. LODGES INSTITUTED.
The Charters ordered at the last Annual Communication were duly executed and the several lodges constituted, as will appear in the report of the R.'. W.'. Grand Secretary. LODGES UNDER DISPENSATION.
But one dispensation has been issued to establish a new lodge, that at Kingsdown. For dates and names of officers, reference is also made to the report of the R.-. W.'. Grand Secretary. ELECTIONS AT OTHER THAN RIGHT TIME.
Notwithstanding the stressing of this subject both by the Grand Master and Grand Secretary last year, the following lodges held their elections at times other than that authorized by the Constitution r
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
303
Norton Lodge No. 199, Landmark Lodge No. 218, Powhattan Lodge No. 863 and Mayetta Lodge No. 893. I held these elections illegal, and on my own motion issued Special Dispensations requiring them to hold new elections, charging them the usual fee of $5.00 each. DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTERS.
There is no office in our entire system that affords a greater opportunity for being of genuine service to the Craft than that of District Deputy Grand Master. May I enjoin upon the brethren who will fill these important offices during the coming year a careful study of the laws, that they may be better enabled to counsel with and advise lodges. They should also give careful attention to their instructions, that their reports may be submitted in proper form and within the time required. To the brethren who have served me in this capacity during the past year I am under lasting obligations. From many I have demanded much, and from all, with but few exceptions, I have received the heartiest cooperation. DISTRICT MEETINGS.
Aside from holding the usual school of instruction, there are many other objects to be attained by these meetings. The Grand Officers are enabled to get in closer touch with the lodges and the Craft at large. They ascertain their views, become familiar with their conditions, and learn their needs. They can then suggest such measures as may seem needful. Another object is to promote good fellowship and brotherly love among the brethren of the various lodges. The comingling of the membership from the several localities tends to enlarge the horizon of their Masonic experience. They become more cosmopolitan, and often find that the Masonry they have been practicing in their particular lodges does not measure up to the standard. So, they not only learn the "Work", but also become imbued with the principles of Masonry as these are presented in our series of lectures prepared by Brother ROBERT P. MCCOLLOCH, and expounded by Grand Officers in attendance. Thus, in every district, there is an increase in Masonic knowledge, and a growing desire upon the part of every brother to familiarize himself with the fundamental truths and high ideals of our Ancient and Honorable Fraternity. A summary of the reports of these meetings shows: Number of District Meetings held Total Number of Districts Number of lodges represented Number of lodges not represented Total number of lodges on roll Number of officers in attendance Number of officers not in attendance Total number of officers
75 75 419 28 447 2,369 1,821 4,190
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Number of officers in attendance Number of members exclusive of officers
2,369 4,826
Total number in attendance Number of lodges grading 'very good" Number of lodges grading ' 'good" Number of lodges grading ' fair" Number of lodges grading poor" Number of lodges doing no work
7,195 73 235 71 22 18
;
Total number lodges represented
419
I t will be observed that around 9% of our entire membership attended these meetings. The average attendance per meeting was 96; the average per lodge 17. A comparison of these reports with those of former years shows that the attendance of both officers and members is increasing and that a greater efficiency is being attained in both the ritualistic and the esoteric work. The following is a list of the lodges that were not represented: Location No. Location No. Oskaloosa 14 Grenola 248 255 Mound City 33 Milan Pomona 41 Blue Mound 286 Barnard 59 Glen Elder 294 Edgerton 127 Sublette 312 Lenexa 135 Severance 313 Lincoln... 154 Kincaid 338 Smith Center 174 Lane 339 Gaylord 183 Sylvan Grove 359 Lucas 198 Denison 372 Greeley 211 Mayetta 393 Meriden 236 Benedict 403 Soldier 240 Richmond 426 Waverly 244 Pretty Prairie 428 THE MASONIC HOME.
The Kansas Masonic Home, although under the absolute control of this. Grand Body, is in fact a civil corporation. Its By-Laws require that the President make an annual report to this Grand Lodge. In conformity thereto, said report will be submitted during this Communication. It therefore seems unnecessary to make further mention of that subject at this time. LODGE ENTERTAINMENTS.
There seems to be a tendency upon the part of some of our lodges to engage in the theatrical business, and to turn their lodges into ordinary clubs or social gatherings by giving or sponsoring minstrel or burlesque shows, circuses, box suppers and barn dances, and advertising them in the public press. Such entertainments cheapen the dignity of the Fraternity, and, in my opinion, should be discouraged. In one case an entertainment was cancelled upon my order.
1925-26.
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It is my firm conviction that a fraternity of the antiquity and worth of ours will best serve communities, the state, the world, by refraining from the association with any enterprises, however excellent these may be, other than such as may properly be related to it and which, by association, will further commend Masonry to people everywhere. QUESTIONS OF JURISDICTION.
During the year I have been called upon to settle eighteen cases of disputed jurisdiction. The handling of these cases has necessitated considerable travel, the writing of over one hundred and fifty letters, the securing of plats and other evidence. In some cases, I fear, ill feeling.has been caused. All of this could have been avoided had the investigation committees performed their duties. The following cases I deem of sufficient importance to present to you: 1.
On July 7, 1925, the question of the standing of Brother
WILLIAM CLARENCE PECK was referred to me by the Grand Secretary.
My investigations revealed the following facts: Brother PECK petitioned Fidelity Lodge No. 106 for the Mysteries and was initiated there in 1921. On February 6, 1925, Fidelity Lodge requested Advance Lodge No. 114 to advance the brother to the degree of Fellow Craft and Master Mason. At that time. Brother PECK had been a resident within the jurisdiction of Advance Lodge for more than two years. Therefore a waiver and not a request should have been issued. Advance Lodge conferred the degrees on Brother PECK on the "request", and evidently with the full knowledge they should have had a waiver. Fidelity Lodge violated the laws by issuing a request when the candidate had been an actual non-resident of the jurisdiction of their lodge for more than two years. I therefore declared Brother WILLIAM CLARENCE PECK to be a member of Fidelity Lodge No. 106, administered a reprimand to both lodges, and penalized them by requiring the fees collected to be remitted to the Grand Secretary and by him turned into the Endowment Fund of the Kansas Masonic Home, which order was promptly complied with. 2. Under date of June 6, 1925, complaint was filed in my office by Bourbon Lodge No. 268, against Virginia Lodge No. 315, alleging invasion of jurisdiction. Upon investigation, it developed that Virginia Lodge had received a petition for the Mysteries and conferred the Entered Apprentice degree on a candidate after he had removed from the jurisdiction of that lodge, but that he had not lived in the jurisdiction of Bourbon Lodge a sufficient length of time to obtain residence. It has been the custom to order the lodge infringing on the jurisdiction of another lodge to turn over all fees to the lodge to whom the candidate rightfully belonged. The circumstances in this case, however, are unusual, as the removal of the brother from the jurisdiction of Virginia Lodge terminated his legal right to petition that lodge, and he had not resided within the jurisdiction of any other lodge a'sufficient length of time to file his petition.
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I held that the membership of this candidate should remain with Virginia Lodge; administered a reprimand, and penalized them for their action by requiring that the fees collected be remitted to the Grand Secretary and by him placed in the Endowment Fund of the Kansas Masonic Home. DISCIPLINE.
The indifference and neglect of Kincaid Lodge No. 338, Buffalo Lodge No. 379, and Scammon Lodge No. 351 was the subject of special report by the Grand Secretary at the last Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge, and was referred to the incoming Grand Master for consideration as to the advisability of continuing these lodges on the rolls. One of my first duties was to begin an investigation of the matters and things complained of in these lodges. In the case of Kincaid Lodge No. 338 and Scammon Lodge No. 351, it developed that the trouble arose from negligence and carelessness upon the part of the Masters, and ignorance resting with the Secretaries. These officers promptly acknowledged their shortcomings and assured me that the business affairs of their lodges would be properly handled in the future, and as they suffered the penalty of being denied representation in the Grand Lodge, I thought a reprimand to be sufficient punishment. In the case of Buffalo Lodge No. 379, my investigation substantiated all of the things complained of, and further revealed that the officers, and more particularly the Secretary, were guilty of gross neglect of duty. On March 26, 1925, I registered a letter to the Master calling, his attention to the complaints and stated that I would feel warranted in arresting the charter of the lodge unless immediate steps were taken to furnish the reports requested and to correct the unseemly conditions existing in the lodge. On the 16th of the following month, having received no reply, I directed R.'. W.'. JAMES H . BEEGLE, District Deputy Grand Master for the 24th District, to arrest the charter and forward the same, together with the seal and ciphers, to the Grand Secretary, and to place the property of the lodge in the hands of some competent brother until final disposition of the case was made. This order was enforced on April 20, 1925, and the funds and property of the lodge were set over and delivered to Brother E. D. HORNBURGER. The Master of the lodge and a committee of Past Masters and members at once communicated with me asking what could be done to regain their charter. I replied that when they had complied with the requirements which had been made, and when I was convinced that their lodge was able to properly function, I would be pleased to take up the subject. On May 9, 1925, they furnished me with a statement that they had complied with the order, so far as possible, apologized for their neglect and discourteous treatment, and promised that in the future they would be obedient to the laws and orders, and prayed that the charter be returned. Thereupon, and on May 23,1925,
1925-26.
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I directed R.'. W.\ JAMES H . BEEGLE to restore their charter, seal, ' ciphers, funds and property. This was done on the 30th of the same month. On the same date that I directed the return of their charter, I issued my order suspending Brother Ross M. ARTHUR, Secretary of Buffalo Lodge No. 379, from office on account of neglect of duty and insubordination. A special dispensation was issued to elect and install some brother to fill the vacancy. Among other matters referred to the incoming Grand Master at • the last Annual Communication of this Grand Lodge was the subject of "Conferring degrees in less than the required time". The following lodges were found guilty of the violation of Section 6, Article VI of the Constitution: Osage Valley No. 24, Council Grove No. 36, Halstead No. 46, Halcyon No. 120, and Hebron No. 314. To each of these lodges I administered a reprimand, requiring the same to be read at the first Stated Communication after its receipt and spread in full upon the minutes of that Communication. Prompt acknowledgment of compliance with the order was received from each lodge. The Master of Holyrood Lodge No. 343, W.-. CHARLIE PARKHURST, neglected and refused to receive an official visit from the District Deputy Grand Master of the 68th District. Complaint was also made that he was conducting himself in a manner unbecomiifg a Mason. Registered letters directed to him at his address in Holyrood, and later in Salina, were returned "unclaimed". Upon investigation I became convinced that for the good of this lodge, and in order to uphold the dignity and fair name of Masonry, this lodge should have a new Master. Therefore by my order of July 1, 1925, a vacancy was declared in the office of Master of Holyrood Lodge No. 343, and a special dispensation was issued to elect and install a Master to fill the vacancy caused thereby. The question of preferring charges against this brother is now pending. A subsequent report from this lodge shows that they have regained their former good standing in the community and are prospering. Brother ROY H . TAYLOR, Master of DeSoto Lodge No. 40, moved out of the jurisdiction of the lodge, but not out of the Grand Jurisdiction. He was not attending the Communications nor performing his duties as Master of the lodge. Such a state of affairs existed that I believed it advisable to declare a vacancy in the office of Master of this lodge, which was done by my order of the 18th of August, 1925. At the same time, I issued a special dispensation to elect and install a Master to fill the vacancy caused thereby. Complaint was received by me on September 28, 1925, that the Master of Muscotah Lodge No. 116, had ordered that portion of the minutes of a certain Communication relatinjg to an objection to the advancement of a brother be expunged from the records. I at once advised the Master that as the right of objection is fundamental and is carefully provided for in our laws, I would expect him to rescind his order, and further, that if, under the circumstances, the brother in question was advanced, I would deem it sufficient cause to suspend
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February,
him from office and cite him before the Grand Body for trial. He made arrangements to meet me at Atchison on the 12th of October to discuss the matter, but failed to keep the engagement. Not having heard from him, on the 21st of that month I administered a severe reprimand. A report from the District Deputy Grand Master from that District shows that the order t o expunge was rescinded, and that the brother in question was not advanced. Severance Lodge No. 313 has been the source of much annoyance during the year. Letters and telegrams both from the Grand Secretary and myself were unanswered. The Master of this lodge displayed such contempt that I was compelled to severely reprimand him. Under date of October 10, 1925, the Grand Secretary transmitted to me a communication addressed to him by Brother G. R. CANATSBY, of Bronson, Kansas, charging. irregular conduct on the part of Xenia Lodge No. 47, of Xenia, Kansas, and certain members thereof. Brother CANATSBY'S communication bore date of October 7, 1925, and charged: That at a Communication of the lodge held in March, 1925, objection was made to the raising of a certain Fellow Craft to the degree of Master Mason; that on June 6th, following, the lodge was illegally opened in the absence of the Master and both Wardens, and at a late hour at night, and the degree of Master Mason conferred upon the Fellow Craft against whom objection had previously been made, after the objecting member had retired from the lodge and gone home; that at such Communication Brother W. E. BUELL, acted as Master, Brother G. R. ABBY acted as Senior Warden and Brother-W. R. SMITH acted as Junior Warden, all of whom were members of Xenia Lodge No. 47. That charges were presented in writing to the Secretary of the lodge against the said Brothers W. E. BUELL, G . R . ABBY and W. R. SMITH, charging them with irregularly and illegally opening a Lodge of Master Masons and conferring degrees, and of conduct unbecoming a Mason; that the Secretary refused to present such charges to the lodge for action, and that no action had ever been taken in respect thereto. Upon receipt of Brother CANATSBY'S communication, and consideration thereof, and under date of October 19, 1925, I ordered Brother OLLIB L . BECKWITH, Master of Xenia Lodge No. 47, to call a Special Communication of the lodge for Saturday night, October 24, 1925, at the usual hour, and to cause summons to issue for all resident members to attend, for the purpose of determining and considering the facts relative to the charges of Brother CANATSBY. The Special Communication was called and the members summoned in accordance with my order. I notified R.". W.'. SAMUEL TUCKER, District Deputy Grand Master of the Seventh District, Pleasanton, Kansas, of the charges made against Xenia Lodge and its members, and requested him to attend the Special Communication ordered.
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
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I proceeded to Xenia and personally investigated the facts upon which the charges were based, and attended the Special Communication called and held pursuant to my orders, on October 24th. From my investigations I found the facts to be as follows: 1. At a Stated Communication of Xenia Lodge No. 47, held in March, 1925, Brother G. R. CANATSBY made oral objection to the advancement of Brother WILLIAM PRITCHETT, a Fellow Craft, to the degree of Master Mason. There was no request that the objection be recorded. 2. On June 6th, following, at the time for the Stated Communication of the lodge. Brother OLLIE L . BECKWITH, Master of the lodge, being unable to attend the lodge that evening, requested Brother W. E. BuELL to attend and act in his stead. On the evening of that date, at the hour of about 9:00 o'clock, being the usual hour in that lodge, the lodge was opened in the absence of the Master and Wardens. Brother W. E. BUELL acted as Master, Brother G. R. ABBY as Senior Warden, and Brother W. R. SMITH as Junior Warden. Seven other members were present and participated. 3. At the Communication thus opened and held, and in the regular course of lodge procedure, there being no objection made at this time, Brother WILLIAM PRITCHETT was raised to the degree of Master Mason. 4. Subsequently to the above. Brother G. R. CANATSEY handed to the Secretary of the lodge a memorandum in writing, signed by himself, reading as follows: "The following members of Xenia Lodge No. 47, A. F. & A. M. are charged with illegally opening a lodge of Masonry and conferring degrees and conduct unbecoming a Mason. Bro. W. E. BUELL, Bro. G. R. ABBY, Bro. W. R. SMITH.
(Signed) G. R. CANATSEY."
He requested that the communication be entered on the minutes and brought up for action at the next Stated Communication. 5. At the next Stated Communication the charges as above set forth were read by the Secretary. There was some comment by members present that the charges were not in form for consideration. No action was taken then on the charges and none has been taken since. 6. The charges preferred by Brother CANATSEY referred to the action of the members accused in opening a lodge under date of June 6, 1925, in the absence of the Master and Wardens, and in conferring: the degree of Master Mason upon Brother WILLIAM PRITCHETT. 7. I found there were no irregularities, nor acts of misconduct on the part of the brethren specifically charged, or of any other officers ormembers of the lodge, other than in opening a lodge of Master Masons in the absence of the regularly elected and installed Master and Wardens, and in conferring the degree of Master Mason upon Brother WILLIAM PRITCHETT at a lodge so opened.
310
PROCEEDINGS
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February,
8. I found that the acts of the members charged, and of the members present and participating, were not committed willfully or contumaciously; that they acted throughout in good faith, but ignorantly; that their attention was not called at the time to the fact that they were proceeding illegally in opening a lodge in the absence of the Master and Wardens. Upon consideration of the facts as found, and after consulting with Brother SAMUEL TUCKER, District Deputy Grand Master, and Brother CHARLES V. PORTER, the Ex-District Deputy Grand Master of the Seventh District, both of whom were present at the Special Communication referred to, I arrived at the following conclusions: The opening of the lodge in the absence of the Master and Wardens and the conferring of the degree of Master Mason by a lodge so opened were irregular and illegal, and subjects the lodge to discipline; but that the Work done therein must be held regular. That, taking into consideration that the illegal acts were not committed willfully or contumaciously, and that the members charged and the members present acted in good faith, and without reprehensible or questionable motives, I concluded that a reprimand addressed to the Master of the lodge and the officers and members would be a sufficient punishment. Accordingly, at the Special Communication of the lodge held on October 24, 1925, I administered a reprimand to the Master of the lodge and to the members charged and the members present at the said irregular and illegal Communication. To complete the report on this matter there remains to be added the fact that Brother G. R. CANATSEY failed to attend the Special Communication of October 24th, although duly summoned. At the opening of the lodge, a member handed me a communication from Brother CANATSEY dated October 21, 1925, in which he stated that on account of being called away on a business matter, he might not be able to return in time to attend the Special Communication on the 24th. I learned that Brother CANATSEY had delivered the note to the bearer on that day, and from other facts learned, I concluded Brother CANATSEY could have been present without great inconvenience. Under date of November 27, 1925, I addressed a- communication to Brother CANATSEY requesting an explanation as to why he had not obeyed the summons to attend the Special Communication. He replied that he had been called away on a matter of business and was unable to attend. Finding his explanation not faithful to the facts, and lacking in sincerity, I concluded that he deserved reprimand, and accordingly reprimand has been administered. The files in these several cases, which will explain them more fully will be placed before the committee to whom this subject is referred.
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
311
APPLICATION FOR SETTING ASIDE OF JUDGMENT.
On February 23, 1925, KIRBY MCRILL made application for an order setting aside the judgment of Henri Lodge No. 190, at Tonganoxie, in the case of Henri Lodge No. 190 vs. KIRBY MCRILL. • This case had been appealed to the Grand Lodge and was heard at the Annual Communication of 1921. The findings and judgment of Henri Lodge were approved and sustained. I therefore denied the order. LODGE TRIALS.
At the last Annual Communication the Committee on Jurisprudence had before them for consideration three appeals, viz: FRANK V. HOYT from the action of Phillipsburg Lodge No. 184; Americus Lodge No. 109 from the verdict of acquittal of iRA STONEBRAKER; JOHN COWPE from the judgment of conviction and expulsion by Corner. Stone Lodge No. 219. In each of these cases the verdict was set aside and each case "remanded for new trial at such time and place as the incoming Grand Master shall direct". The HOYT vs. SMITH case om my order was heard in Mt. Vernon Lodge No. 145, of Beloit, on June-. 1, 1925, and the defendant was acquitted. The STONEBRAKER case-, was ordered to Madison Lodge No. 196, where it was tried April 21,. 1925, and the accused was acquitted. The COWPE case was ordered totrial in Sterling Lodge No. 171 on April 2, 1925, and upon motion of the accusers was dismissed. At the beginning of my term of office the case of Great Bend LodgeNo. 15 vs. JOHN W . WALDRON was pending in McPherson Lodge No.172, on a change of venue, awaiting the result of the accused's appeal ini the civil courts. His conviction having been affirmed by the Supreme Court of the State of Kansas, it appeared that the cause of said change of venue was removed, and that said case should be heard in the lodge of original jurisdiction. Therefore, upon my order, it was remanded to Great Bend Lodge No. 15, where it was heard on September 25, 1925. The accused was found guilty and his punishment fixed at expulsion. During my term, I have handled 37 cases, 2 of which were dismissed; 12 are still pending, 4 resulted in acquittal, and 19 in conviction, of which 4 were suspended and 15 were expelled. Several of these cases have been appealed, as will appear in the Grand Secretary's report. The increasing number of trials suggests that the neglect upon the part of investigating committees may be working a serious injury to the institution of Masonry. So many men are knocking at the door of Masonry that it behooves every lodge to exercise the utmost caution in admitting new members, and this can only be accomplished through efficient service on the part of investigating committees. Members of this most important committee should first make careful investigation as to jurisdiction, and to do this they must know the law. They should make it their business to know from personal observation whether the
312
PROCEEDINGS
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February.
candidate is physically qualified. They should then make diligent inquiry as to his character and habits and should satisfy themselves as to his fitness for Masonic honors. If the petitioner has resided but a short time within the jurisdiction of the lodge, then the inquiry should extend to the several places of his former residence. DECISIONS.
The correspondence during the past year has been unusually large. This was due in great measure to.the fact that lodge officers appeal to the Grand Master, believing him to be an oracle of wisdom and law, and request rulings which cover points that are plainly set out in the laws or that have been passed upon by his predecessors, or the Grand Lodge. Relief will be given only when Masters are instructed and trained to consult the laws and digest of decisions before submitting a question. With this end in view, I suggest that such instruction can be developed through our District Deputy Grand Masters. Of the many questions submitted, I have been able to answer mostly by referring the writers to the proper section of the Constitution and Laws or to former decisions. The followng questions, which seern not to have been thus covered, I deem of sufficient importance^to insert here: 1. When a trial has gone to the Grand Lodge on appeal and is remanded for new trial at such time and place as the incoming Grand Master may direct, I held that no summons for the accused is necessary; t h a t notice of time and place to both accused and accuser is sufficient; :that said new trial is in effect a re-trial. 2. A Mason's obligation to the Fraternity demands that when •appointed to a Committee, he shall exercise the utmost diligence in ascertaining the facts, status, or merits of the subject, matter or thing :S0 referred. And whenever a member of a Committee wilfully fails to properly perform such duty, he is guilty of an offense against the Body vof Masonry, and is subject to discipHne. . 3. In By-Law No. 158 the word " p a r t y " in the sentence, "How•ever, all transcripts for review shall be paid for by the party ordering them", should be construed as referring to either the accuser or the accused. Either the appellant or the appellee is entitled to a transscript upon tendering payment therefor, but it is not compulsory to furnish a transcript to any other lodge or brother. 4. When a case has been remanded for new trial, the accuser, whether it be a lodge or an individual, is not obliged to prosecute it a second time. It may be dismissed, if the accuser so desires, provided no order to the contrary is issued by the Grand Lodge or the Grand Master. 5. Upon a change of venue, in the trial of an action, the lodge of original jurisdiction is liable for the expense incurred by the lodge trying the case.
1925-26
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
313
6. A case may be continued by stipulation when approved by the Grand Master or by the brother designated by him to preside at the trial of the case. 7. A witness at a Masonic Trial cannot be compelled to criminate himself by giving such testimony as refers to his individual participation in the act or crime in question. RECOMMENDATIONS.
1. I invite your attention to Standing Regulation "Correspondence with Lodges in other Grand Jurisdictions", which seems to affect lodges only, and on the subject-matter of .Masonic Membership or the Conferring of Degrees. Considerable trouble has arisen during the year because of the fact that lodges and individuals have carried on correspondence directly with lodges or individuals in other Grand Jurisdictions with reference to matters that should have been handled through the Grand Lodge. Much of this trouble could have been avoided had the correspondence gone through a common head. Therefore the following proposed amendment is submitted for your consideration : All communications frorri a subordinate lodge in this jurisdiction to a lodge in another Grand Jurisdiction upon the subject-matter of Masonic membership or the conferring of degrees, or upon the subject of any grievance against an individual member or lodge, shall be sent through the Grand Master or Grand Secretary, and no lodge in this jurisdiction shall respond to a communication from a lodge or individual in another Grand Jurisdiction upon these subjects without first referring the matter to the Grand Master or Grand Secretary. 2. It has been the custom to make the hotel bill of our Lecturers while attending district meetings an item of expense to be borne by the several lodges composing the district. Too often it happens that the District Deputy Grand Master fails to make the proper arrangements with the hotels, or having done so the clerk on duty has not been advised. Thus our Lecturers must either pay the bill from their own pockets or be subjected to the humiliation of having to explain that their bill is to be paid by someone else. As it would add but little expense to our Grand Lodge to include the hotel bill with the other expenses of our Lecturers, I recommend such legislation as may be necessary to bring this about. 3. The term of the office of Grand Representative, viz: five years, is apparently too long. By reason of failure or incapacity to attend Grand Lodge, removal from the Grand Jurisdiction and various other causes we are frequently called upon to carry on our rolls "dead material", and thus deny other and more deserving brethren honors to which they are entitled. I submit for your consideration the proposition of reducing the term of this office to three years.
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February,
4. Heretofore in this report, I have referred to the subject of conferring degrees in less than the required time. Notwithstanding that severe reprimands have been administered to offending lodges, this practice seems to continue. This subject is therefore submitted to you for your careful consideration, to the end that we may provide proper remedial measures. 5. There are certain conditions existing in Washington Lodge No. 5, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Vermillion Lodge No. 320 and Brainerd Lodge No. 280, the nature of which conditions prevented a settlement during my term of office. I t is therefore recommended that this matter be referred to the incoming Grand Master for watchful care and attention. INVITATIONS.
During the year your Grand. Master has received numerous invitations to attend Communications and social functions of the subordinate lodges. It would have been a pleasure to have accepted all of these invitations, b u t as time, and the distance necessary to travel would not permit of that, I accepted only such as were convenient. The rest were declined with sincere regret. An invitation was received from
M . . W.-. ORESTES
MITCHELL,
Grand Master, to attend the One Hundred and Fifth Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Missouri, on October 27, 1925. I had hoped that I might meet with the brethren of our mother Grand Lodge, but the dates conflicted with other engagements which had to be met, and I was obliged to decline this invitation. An invitation received to attend the Festival of the Bi-Centenary of the Grand Lodge of Ireland, and a Stated Communication of that Grand Lodge on June 4, 1925, at Freemason's Hall, Dublin. This invitation, also, for obvious reasons, I was compelled to decline. ABSENCE FORM THE GRAND JURISDICTION.
I was absent from the State from July 23rd to August 15th, attending the Triennial Conclave of Knights Templar at Seattle, Washington, and as the Deputy Grand Master was also absent, the duties of Grand Master fell to R.-.W.\ Brother CHARLES N . FOWLER, Grand Senior Warden, during that period. CONDITION OP MASONRY.
Our net gain for the year was 2,133. This is 643 less than the net gain for the previous year. A comparison of our net gains for the past several years shows a continual decrease. This may be attributed t o several causes, among which are financial and other adverse conditions. But the principal reason is an honest endeavor on the part of our lodges to heed the caution not to let quantity overshadow quality. Deplore it as we may, it must be admitted that there have been times in the past when there has been a tendency to desire an increase in member-
1925-26.
.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
315
ship which has sometimes resulted in a growth that cannot be said to be healthy. We have well observed the Ancient Landmarks as to physical qualifications. But we have not always paid sufficient attention to intellectual and moral qualifications. However, I am pleased to report that there is a growing tendency upon the part of our lodges to admit only such as may measure up to the physical standards required, and who also possess the qualities of mind and heart which will add to the sum total of Masonic influence in social and civic life, and of that universal religious idea which will bind our members into a common brotherhood. One noticeable feature of Masonry, now, is the ndmber of our younger brethren who have been selected to fill places of responsibility and influence. As a rule, they are earnest, intelligent and ambitious, and are infusing life and vigor into their lodges. Many lodges have organized clubs for the purpose of studying the history, symbolism and philosophy of Masonry. Their action is to be commended to others as a means of bringing about a finer spirit of brotherhood, and a better realization of Masonic ideals. CONCLUSION.
In closing, I may say that it has been possible to mention only briefly in this report some matters that might have been discussed at length, and a number of things of necessity have been reluctantly pushed aside. I can fully appreciate the feeling of those whose high privilege it has been to occupy this office when they regret that they have not been able to accomplish more than appears to have been done. During the year, there came to my office the Washington Memorial Bible, a bible that is being sent about to the several Grand Jurisdictions in the United States, and upon opening the book at random, my eyes fell upon the sixth chapter of Amos, a message from the Shepherd Prophet of Tekoa, in which there is a ringing rebuke for those who turn away from the path of peace and rectitude and engage in voluptuous ease and revelry. The thought will come, and the earnest worker on the Temple today may well pause in the midst of the mass of rubbish that constantly tends to accumulate and ask. Was there ever a time when there was a more open and direct challenge to uprightness of character, steadfastness of purpose and unwavering zeal for the right than there is today? This has been a busy year. There have been so many opportunities that limited time and strength made it necessary to let pass by. It has been my steadfast purpose to give myself unstintedly to the work and to face squarely every duty and every responsibility. Whatever measure of success has been realized was made possible by the loyalty and cooperation of the several lodges and the members of the Craft at large, who, with but few exceptions, have shown a willingness to obey orders and to conform to the requirements of the Grand
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Master's office. I desire publicly to acknowledge my indebtedness to my associate Grand Officers, and to the several Past Grand Masters, upon whom I have felt free to call for advice and service. Our Grand Secretary, with his long experience and familiarity with the routine work, has rendered a service which I appreciate more deeply than I can express. Finally, I desire to express, in some measure, at least, my deep appreciation of the confidence of my brethren which prompted them to confer upon me the high honor of making me their Chief Officer for this past year. As I yield the gavel to my successor and go back to the ranks, I shall carry with me undying memories of this year's experiences and of our fellowship in service. I wish to leave with you the assurance that I shall continue to be yours, and subject to your commands in whatever service I may be able to perform. And now, with profound faith in the work of Masonry, and profound gratitude for having had the privilege, of bearing large responsibilities in the work, and with the hope that each succeeding year may find our beloved Fraternity increasing in nifmbers, devotion, interest, power and beneficent influence, here and in all the world, this report is Fraternally submitted. CHARLES A. LOUCKS,
Grand Master.
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
317
REPORT OF GRAND SENIOR WARDEN.
R.-. W.-. CHARLES N . FOWLER, Grand Senior Warden, submitted the following report as Grand Master during the absence of the M.'. W.". Grand Master and R.'. W.". Deputy Grand Master from this Grand Jurisdiction, which, on his motion, was referred to the Committee on Reports of Grand Officers: To the M.: W:. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: I herewith submit a report covering my activities as Grand Master during the absence of the Grand Master and Deputy Grand Master from the State. COURTESIES EXTENDED.
The usual requests from other Grand Jurisdictions for lodges in this jurisdiction to confer degrees on elected candidates as a courtesy were received and gladly complied with. SPECIAL DISPENSATIONS ISSUED AND PROPER RETURNS MADE.
Cherryvale Lodge No. 137, July 28, to elect and install a Junior Warden and Treasurer. Lawrence Lodge No. 6, August 25, to elect and install a Junior Warden. No fee was charged for these dispensations. Topeka Lodge No. 17, August 5, to waive statutory time in conferring degrees. Formoso Lodge No. 336, August 8, to waive statutory time in conferring degrees. A fee of $5.00 was charged for these dispensation; same has been remitted to CHARLES A. LOUCKS, Grand Master. SPECIAL DISPENSATIONS REFUSED.
On July 6, I received a letter from the Secretary of Satanta Lodge No. 446, asking for authority to confer the Master Mason degree upon a candidate who was suffering from Brights Disease and unable to perform the ceremonies of that degree. Naturally my sympathies were aroused, and if allowed to govern, a dispensation would have been issued; there are, however, some things even the Grand Master cannot do. There are Landmarks, Constitutions, Laws and Approved DecisioFiS, which the Grand Master is sworn to support, and beyond which he must not go. The request was therefore refused, and the lodge referred to a decision by M.\ W.'. Brother SHAVER in 1898, which was
318
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
approved by this Grand Lodge, and which reads as follows: "The Grand Master possesses no prerogative to grant special dispensations for conferring the degrees of Ancient Craft Masonry upon candidates not having the requisite qualifications". On August 4, request was made by Bonner Springs Lodge No. 366, for special dispensation to dedicate a park presumably owned by this lodge. This request also specified it was the wish of the lodge that this dedication be made in Ample Form, by the Grand Lodge. Being unable to locate any ceremony adopted by this Grand Lodge, or any law authorizing a special dispensation for a subordinate lodge, or this Grand Lodge, to dedicate a park, the request was refused. Fraternally submitted, CHARLES N . FOWLEE,
OS Grand Master.
REPORT OF GRAND JUNIOR WARDEN.
R.-. W.'. FERRIS M . HILL, Grand Junior Warden, submitted an oral report of his official activities during the year.
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
319
GRAND TREASURER'S REPORT.
R.-.W.-. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH, Grand Treasurer, submitted the following report, which, on motion of R.-.W.". JOHN W . NEILSON, was referred to the Committee on Reports of Grand Officers: To the M:.W:. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: The following report of the receipts and disbursements of Grand Lodge funds is fraternally submitted: LAWRENCE, KANSAS, February 1, 1926.
WILLIAM FRANK MARCH, Grand Treasurer, In account with T H E M . - . W . - . GRAND LODGE OP KANSAS. GENERAL FUND.
-.QgK Receipts. Mar.'1.—Balance on hand $ 15,810 93 Received from Grand Secretary as per receipts Nos. 1 to 77 118,376 54 $134,187 47 Disbursements. 1925-1926.—Warrants paid Nos. 1 to 402 except Nos. 69, 93 and 334... $105,266 23 • Transferred to Charity Fund.... 4,406 95 Balance on hand.. 24,514 29 134,187 47 CHARITY FUND.
j^goc Receipts. Mar." 1.—Balance on hand Transferred from General Fund
$ 20,507 79 4,406 95
24,914 74
Disbursements. 1925-1926.—Warrants Nos. 69 and 334 Balance on hand
$ 13,560 00 11,354 74
24,914 74
I have in my hands the following bonds purchased by the Council of Administration: Spring Township, Harper County, bearing 5% interest: No. 15, dated Aug. 1, 1911, due Aug. 1, 1931 No. 16, dated Aug. 1, 1911, due Aug. 1, 1931
$500 00 500 00
320
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
School District No. 79, Greenwood County, bearing 5 % interest: No. 14, dated July 1, 1911, due July 1, 1926 $500 00 No. 15, dated July 1, 1911, due July 1, 1927 500 00 School District No. 50, No. 7, dated Jan. No. 6, dated Jan. No. 5, dated Jan. No. 4, dated Jan. No. 3, dated Jan. No. 2, dated Jan. No. 1, dated Jan.
Brown County, bearing 6 % interest: 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1933 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1934 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1935 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1936 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1937 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1938 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1981)
$500 500 500 500 500 500 500
00 00 00 00 00 00 00
Board of Education, City of Lamed, bearing 5 % interest: No. 33, dated Jan. 1, 1914, due July 1, 1933 No. 34, dated Jan. 1, 1914, due July 1, 1933 No. 35, dated Jan. 1, 1914, due July 1, 1933 No. 36, dated Jan. 1, 1914, due July 1, 1933
$1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000
00 00 00 00
U. S. Savings Certificates, {Purchased at $960.00): No. C 528640, due July 10, 1927 No. C 528656, due July 10, 1927 No. M 71728, due July 10, 1927 ,
$ 100 00 100 00 1,000 00
TJ. S. Fourth Liberty Loan Bonds bearing Jf}4,% interest, as shown in report of 1925: 1 Bond :....$ 5,000 00 38 Bonds, $1,000.00 each 38,000 00 6 Bonds $500.00 each 3,000 00 The following U. S. Fourth Liberty Loan Bonds which were purchased by the Council of Administration during 1925, bearing 4 M % interest: No. E 02048515, due Oct. 15, 1938 $1,000 00 No. F 02048516, due Oct. 15, 1938..1,000 00 No. G 02048517, due Oct. 15,.1938 1,000 00 No. H 02048518, due Oct. 15, 1938 1,000 00 No. J 02048519, due Oct. 15, 1938 1,000 00 No. K 02186550, due Oct. 15, 1938 1,000 00 Total
6,000 00 $62,700 00
Fraternally submitted, WILLIAM FRANK MARCH,
Grand Treasurer.
3925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
321
GRAND SECRETARY'S REPORT.
R.-. W.-. ALBERT K . WILSON, submitted the following report, which, on motion of M.-. W.'. ELRICK C . COLE, was referred to the Committee on Reports of Grand Officers: To the M.:W.: Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: Your Grand Secretary is pleased to submit the following report for consideration at this Annual Communication: PROCEEDINGS 1 9 2 5 .
The Annual Proceedings for 1925 were printed and distributed within the usual time after the close of our last Annual Communication. HISTORICAL REGISTRY AND ABSTRACT.
Our historical registry and abstract books were posted up to date during the year from the 1924 reports. CHARTERS ISSUED.
At the last Annual Communication charters were authorized for the formation of the following new lodges: Allen Lodge No. 335.—On March 24, 1925, R.-.W.-. FERRIS M . HILL, Special Deputy Grand Master, consecrated, dedicated and constituted this lodge, with the following officers: JONATHAN J. WINGFIELD
Master
WILLIAM HBIFNER ARTHUR E . BATES
Senior Warden Junior Warden
RICHARD R . MOUNKES GEORGE H . RBABURN
Treasurer Secretary
PERRY L . PUTNAM GEORGE R . WAGNER GILBERT M . WISDOM CYRIL L . LEAVELL
.
Senior Deacon Junior Deacon Senior Steward Junior Steward
FRANK A. KELLY.
Tyler
Bendena Lodge No. UO-—On March 25, 1925, R.-.W.-. PAUL M . MARTIN, Special Deputy Grand Master, consecrated, dedicated and constituted this lodge, with the following officers: ALBERT F . ALBBRS
Master
ALTON L . DUTTON MARION R . PETERSON WILLIAM H . MYERS OSWALD C . HARDY....:
ARTHUR J. ALBERS ANDREW N . ANDERSON JOHN C . WILKE ALBERT CLARK WILLIAM LEROY LOYD
Senior Warden Junior Warden .!
Treasurer Secretary
Senior Deacon Junior Deacon Senior Steward Junior Steward Tyler
322
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Johnson Lodge No. J,il-—On March 14, 1925, R / . W / . CHARLES D. HiCKOK, Special Deputy Grand Master, consecrated, dedicated and constituted this lodge, with the following officers: CLARENCE J.. STEWART
ALFRED L . SMITH WILLIAM F . HOOVER JOHN B . COCKRUM JAMES H . BERRY
GARRELT C . MILLSAP WILLIAM D . DUNBAR JOHN V. COCKRUM ARCHIE B . CAVE CHARLES H E I N L E N
Master
Senior Warden Junior Warden Treasurer Secretary
Senior Deacon Junior Deacon Senior Steward Junior Steward Tyler
Rexford Lodge No. U^.—On March 20, 1925, R.-.W/. JOHN M . YEARICK, Special Deputy Grand Master, consecrated, dedicated and constituted this lodge, with the following officers: FRED HAWKINS
GRANT D . PROTZMAN GLADETH F . BASTIN CHRISTOPHER F . MOSHER J. CURTIS B . KNUDSON
WALTER G . PETERSON HARRY E . HANSHAW
Master
Senior Warden Junior Warden Treasurer Secretary
Senior Deacon Junior Deacon
KNUTE CHRIS. KNUDSON
Senior Steward
WILLIAM SHANKS
Junior Steward
WYLIE V. CAESWELL
Tyler
Kanorado Lodge No. US.—On March 17, 1925, R.'.W/. JOHN M . YEARICK, Special Deputy Grand Master, consecrated, dedicated and constituted this lodge, with the following officers: VERNE E . DYATT
OSCAR W . HALL ROBERT BIGHAM GEORGE M . DEMAREE J E S S E M . HARMON
GEORGE W . YOUNG HERMAN A. BENEDIX HERBERT R . SHIMEALL.... ALVA D . MANGUS L E R O Y F . HESTON
Master
Senior Warden Junior Warden Treasurer Secretary
Senior Deacon Junior Deacon Senior Steward Junior Steward Tyler
1925-26.
GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS.
•
323
Stanley Lodge No. m.—On March 9, 1925, R/. W/. CLAYBOURNE W. REYNOLDS, Special Depiity Grand Master, consecrated, dedicated and constituted this lodge, with the following officers: OTTO EDGAR PERRY
WATSON BEESON PLANNER OSCAR HARRY ANES RALPH BEAUMONT WILLIAMS GLENN H . WAGNER
THOMAS DIXON LOUGH JOHN FRANKLIN HAYS BLAINE EDWARD COOKSEY JOHN ANDREW JACKSON DAVID EWING AINSWORTH
Master
Senior Warden Junior Warden Treasurer Secretary
Senior Junior Senior Junior
Deacon Deacon Steward Steward Tyler
Hutchinson Lodge No. UUS.—On March 7, 1925, M/. W/. ELMER F. STRAIN, Special Deputy Grand Master, consecrated, dedicated and constituted this lodge, with the following officers: CLARENCE W . PAYNE
JOHN R . BEECHING HAROLD T . ENGLISH GROVER G. HARRIS OTTO PAINTER
ERNEST C . FRIESEN.... WILLIAM E . EAGLEN IRVING F . BAILER KENNETH M . TIFFANY WILLIAM P. K I N K E L
Master
Senior Warden Junior Warden Treasurer Secretary
Senior Deacon Junior Deacon Senior Steward Junior Steward Tyler
Satanta Lodge No. U6.—On March 10, 1925, R / . W / . CHARLES D. HiCKOK, Special Deputy Grand Master, consecrated, dedicated and constituted this lodge, with the following officers: PRESSLBY M ; FINER
JAMES S. PATRICK JOHN D . JONES JAMES B . UNGLES CHARLES F . MCDONALD
WILLIAM CURRY, J R LEWIS 0 . STANLEY CHARLES S. RENO ANGELL FALLS HUGH HOOPER
Master
Senior Warden Junior Warden Treasurer Secretary
Senior Deacon Junior Deacon Senior Steward Junior Steward Tyler
324
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
LODGE UNDER DISPENSATION.
Kingsdown
Lodge, at Kingsdown,
issued March 10,1925.
Officers:
Ford
County.—Dispensation
FRANK O . INGELS, Master; FRANCIS
S. RiCKNER, Senior Warden; JAMES E . TORRANCE, Junior Warden. RESTORATION OF CHARTERS.
During t h e year the charters of the following lodges have been properly restored wherever necessary, and certified photographic copies made, framed, and sent to each lodge, the original being placed on file in the archives of the Grand Lodge: Acacia Lodge No. 9, Lawrence (copy of original); Towanda Lodge No. 30, Towanda; Havensville Lodge No. 34, Havensville; lola Lodge No. 38, lola; Frankfort Lodge No. 67, Frankfort; Carbondale Lodge No. 70, Carbondale; Mystic Tie Lodge No. 74, Augusta; Corinthian Lodge No. 79, Burhngame; Eureka Lodge No. 88, Pleasanton; Home Lodge No. 89, Centralia; Girard Lodge N o . 93, Girard; Frontier Lodge No. 104, Washington; Winfield Lodge No. 110, Winfield; Newton Lodge No. 142, Newton; Minneapolis Lodge No. 143, Minneapolis; Thayer Lodge No. 149, Thayer; Lebo Lodge No. 152, Lebo; Robinson Lodge No. 159, Robinson, (copy, original burned); Parkerville Lodge No. 168, Parkerville; Western Star Lodge No. 174, Smith Center; Walnut City Lodge No. 215, Rush Center; Ellinwood Lodge No. 217, Ellinwood; Long Island Lodge No. 231, Long Island; Greenleaf Lodge No. 232, Greenleaf; Linwood Lodge No. 241, Linwood; Marmaton Lodge No. 245, Moran; Ionic Lodge No. 254, St. John; Milan Lodge No. 255, Milan; Westmoreland Lodge No. 257, Westmoreland; Mulberry Lodge No. 261, Mulberry; Attica Lodge No. 262, Attica; Mount Zion Lodge No. 266, Nortonville; Mistletoe Lodge No. 269, Conway Springs; Argonia Lodge No. 285, Argonia; Cyrus Lodge No. 288, Hope; Glasco Lodge No. 292, Glasco; Highland Lodge No. 296, Green; Cable Lodge No. 299, Arlington; Kansas Lodge No. 307, Herington; Hancock Lodge No. 311, Fort Leavenworth; Norcatur Lodge No. 317, Norcatur; Arcadia Lodge No. 329, Arcadia; Rob Morris Lodge No. 332, Preston; Leoti Lodge No. 340, Leoti; Ashlar Lodge No. 344, Riley; Turon Lodge No. 358, Turon; Valley Center Lodge No. 364, Valley Center; Bonner Springs Lodge No. 366, Bonner Springs; Stohrville Lodge No. 368, Bluflf City; Waldron Lodge No. 377, Waldron; Zenda Lodge No. 378, Zenda; Buffalo Lodge No. 379, Buffalo; Wakefield Lodge No. 396, Wakefield; Arma Lodge No. 408," Arma; Climax Lodge No. 411, Climax; Wilmore Lodge No. 412, Wilmore; Perry Lodge No. 415, Perry; Delia Lodge No. 419, DeUa; Lecompton Lodge No. 420, Lecompton; Turner Lodge No. 425, Turner; Burdick Lodge No. 429, Burdick; Deerfield Lodge No. 432, Deerfield; Beaumont Lodge No. 439, Beaumont; Rexford Lodge'No. 442, Rexford; Kanorado Lodge No. 443, Kanorado; Stanley Lodge No. 444, Stanley; Hutchinson Lodge No. 445, Hutchinson; Satanta Lodge No. 446, Satanta.
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
325
The list of all lodges whose charters have been placed on file in the archives of the Grand Lodge is again submitted in order that we may have a continuous permanent record covering this subject: Smithton Lodge No. 1, Highland; Leavenworth Lodge No. 2, Leavenworth; Kickapoo Lodge No. 4, Potter; Washington Lodge No. 5, Atchison; Union Lodge No. 7, Junction City; Acacia Lodge No. 9, Lawrence, (copy of original); King Solomon Lodge No. 10, Leavenworth; Jewell Lodge No. 11, Jewell; Emporia Lodge No. 12, Emporia; Oskaloosa Lodge No. 14, Oskaloosa; Great Bend Lodge No. 15, Great Bend; Lafayette Lodge No. 16, Manhattan; Topeka Lodge No. 17, Topeka; Ottawa Lodge No. 18, Ottawa; Olathe Lodge No. 19, Olathe; Grasshopper Falls (Valley Falls) Lodge No. 21, Valley Falls; Palmyra Lodge No. 23, Baldwin; Osage Valley Lodge No. 24', Osawatomie; Oketo Lodge No. 25, Oketo; Pacific Lodge No. 29, Humboldt; Towanda Lodge No. 30, Towanda; Arcana Lodge No. 31, Doniphan; Auburn Lodge No. 32, Auburn; Mound City Lodge No. 33, Mound City; Havensville Lodge No. 34, Havensville; Hiawatha Lodge No. 35, Hiawatha; Council Grove Lodge No. 36, Council Grove; Paola Lodge No. 37, Paola; lola Lodge No. 38, Tola; DeSoto Lodge No. 40, DeSoto; Holton Lodge No. 42, Holton; Nickerson Lodge No. 43, Nickerson; Delphian Lodge No. 44, Garnett; Easton Lodge No. 45, Easton; Nine Mile Lodge No. 49, Lansing; Lake Lodge No. 50, Silver Lake; Orient Lodge No. 51, Topeka; Pottawatomie Lodge No. 52, St. Marys; Wetmore Lodge No. 53, Wetmore; McCracken Lodge No. 58, McCracken; Saltville Lodge No. 59, Barnard; Salina Lodge No. 60, Salina; LaCygne Lodge No. 61, LaCygne (copy, original burned); Adams Lodge No. 63, Oswego; Wathena Lodge No. 64, Wathena; Frankfort Lodge No. 67, Frankfort; Hiram Lodge No. 68, Leavenworth; Altamont Lodge No. 69, Altamont; Carbondale Lodge No. 70, Carbondale; Baxter Lodge No. 71, Baxter Springs; Mystic Tie Lodge No. 74, Augusta; Wamego Lodge No. 75, Wamego; Erie Lodge No. 76, Erie; Delta Lodge No. 77, Medicine Lodge; Corinthian Lodge No.. 79, Burlingame; Zeredatha Lodge No. 80, Cottonwood Falls; New Albany Lodge No. 81, New Albany; Doric Lodge No. 83, Eudora; Sunflower Lodge No. 86, Wichita; Eureka Lodge No. 88, Pleasanton; Home Lodge No. 89, Centralia; Golden Rule Lodge No. 90, North Topeka; Marysville Lodge No. 91, Marysville; Girard Lodge No. 93, Girard; Constellation Lodge No. 95, Fredonia; Patmos Lodge No. 97, El Dorado; Benevolent L-Odge No. 98, Abilene; Wichita Lodge No. 99, Wichita; EucHd Lodge No. 101, Lyndon; Keystone Lodge No. 102, Cofleyville; Cedar Lodge No. 103, Chanute; Frontier Lodge No. 104, Washington; Fortitude Lodge No. 107, Independence; Winfield Lodge No. 110, Winfield; Hesperian Lodge No. I l l , Rossville; Blue Valley Lodge No. 112, Irving; Advance Lodge No. 114, Florence; Muscotah Lodge No. 116, Muscotah; Parsons Lodge No. 117, Parsons; Halcyon Lodge No. 120, Peabody; Clifton Lodge No. 122, CHfton; Republic Lodge No. 123, Republic; Meridian Lodge No. 126, Elk Falls; Pales-
326
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
tine Lodge No. 127, Edgerton; Carson Lodge No. 132, Elk City; Crescent Lodge No. 133, Arkansas City; Clay Center Lodge No. 134, Clay Center; Cherry vale Lodge No. 137, Cherryvale; Dover Lodge No. 138, Dover; Signal Lodge No. 141, Osage City; Newton Lodge No. 142, Newton; Minneapolis Lodge No. 143, Minneapolis; Gilead Lodge No. 144, Yates Center; Mt. Vernon Lodge No. 145, Beloit; Center Lodge No. 147, Marion; Thayer Lodge No. 149, Thayer; Wellington Lodge No. 150, Wellington; Douglass Lodge No. 151, Douglass; Lebo Lodge No. 152, Lebo; Luray Lodge No. 153, Luray; Active Lodge No. 158, Atchison; Robinson Lodge No. 159, Robinson; Saqui Lodge No. 160, Osborne; Greenwood Lodge No. 163, Fall River; Oxford Lodge No. 165, Oxford; Earned Lodge No. 167, Earned; Parkerville Lodge No. 168, Parkerville; McPherson Lodge No. 172, McPhersori; Belle Plaine Lodge No. 173, Belle Plaine; Western Star Lodge No. 174, Smith Center; Kirwin Lodge No. 175, Kirwin; Prairie Queen Lodge No. 176, Clyde; Burr Oak Lodge No. 178, Burr Oak; Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 179, Kinsley; Burrton Lodge No. 182, Burrton; Mountain Slope Lodge No. 186, Oberlin; Pittsburg Lodge No. 187, Pittsburg; Newahcuba Lodge No. 189, Stockton; Henri Lodge No. 190, Tonganoxie; Walnut Valley Lodge No. 191, Ness City; Royal Lodge No. 192, Lyons; Galena Lodge No. 194, Galena; Hays Lodge No. 195, Hays; Madison Lodge No. 196, Madison; Canton Lodge No. 197, Canton; Blue Hill Lodge No. 198, Lucas; Anthony Lodge No. 200, Anthony; Delphos Lodge No. 202, Delphos; Sumner Lodge No. 203, Caldwell; Downs Lodge No. 204, Downs; Friendship Lodge No. 208, Haven; Fulton Lodge No. 210, Fulton; Olive Branch Lodge No. 212, Colony; Twin Grove Lodge No. 213, Severy; Walnut City Lodge No. 215, Rush Center; Corner Stone Lodge No. 219, Little River; Lebanon Lodge No. 221, Scandia; St. Bernard Lodge No. 222, Dodge City; Joppa Lodge No. 223, Leon; Anchor Lodge No. 224, Williamsburg; Siloam Lodge No. 225, Topeka; Vulcan Lodge No. 229, Walnut; Ninneseah Lodge No. 230, Kingman; . Long Island Lodge No. 231, Long Island; Greenleaf Lodge No. 232, Greenleaf; Terhple Lodge No. 237, McCune; Urbana Lodge No. 239, Urbana; Linwood Lodge No. 241, Linwood; Miltonvale Lodge No. 242, Miltonvale; Marmaton Lodge No. 245, Moran; Whiting Lodge No. 250, Whiting; Galva Lodge No. 251, Galva; Oakley Lodge No. 253, Oakley; Ionic Lodge No. 254, St. John; Milan Lodge No. 255, Milan; Westmoreland Lodge No. 257, Westmoreland; Morton Lodge No. 258, Cheney; Beattie Lodge No. 259, Beattie; Mulberry Lodge No. 261, Mulberry; Attica Lodge No. 262, Attica; Mount Zion Lodge No; 266, Nortonville; Mistletoe Lodge No. 269, Conway Springs; Armourdale Lodge No. 271, Kansas City; Unity Lodge No. 273, Clearwater; Black Diamond Lodge No. 274, Weir; Windom Lodge No. 276, Windom; Barney Lodge No. 279, Dighton; Alpha Lodge No. 282, Jetmore; Preston Lodge No. 283, Cimarron; Argonia Lodge No. 285, Argonia; Lotus Lodge No. 286, Blue Mound; Oak Lodge No. 287, Lebanon; Gyrus
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
32T
Lodge No. 288, Hope; Emerald Lodge No. 289, Lakin; Paradise Lodge No. 290, Plainville; Beulah Lodge No. 291, Bunker Hill; Glasco Lodge No. 292, Glasco; Highland Lodge No. 296, Green; Apollo Lodge No. 297, Ellis; Samaria Lodge No. 298, Wilson; Cable Lodge No. 299, Arlington; Fargo Lodge No. 300, Liberal; Hamilton Lodge No. 301, Hamilton; Albert Pike Lodge No. 303, Wichita; Avon Lodge No. 305, Westphalia; St. Thomas Lodge No. 306, Colby; Kansas Lodge No. 307, Herington; Alden Lodge No. 308, Alden; Syracuse Lodge No. 309, Syracuse; Hancock Lodge No. 311, F t . Leavenworth; Santa Fe Lodge No. 312, Sublette; Severance Lodge No. 313, Severance; Norcatur Lodge No. 317, Norcatur; Vermillion Lodge No. 320, Vermillion; Caney Lodge N o . 324, Caney; Horton Lodge No. 326, Horton; Arcadia Lodge No. 329, Arcadia; LaCrosse Lodge No. 330, LaCrosse; Rob Morris Lodge No. 332, Preston; Allen Lodge No. 335, Allen (def.); Formoso Lodge No. 336, Formoso; Frederick Lodge No. 337, Frederick; Leoti Lodge No. 340, Leoti; Holyrood Lodge No. 343, Holyrood; Ashlar Lodge No. 344, Riley; Edna Lodge No. 345, Edna; Moundridge Lodge No. 346, Moundridge; Spivey Lodge No. 347, Spivey; Scammon Lodge No. 351, Scammon; Marquette Lodge No. 353, Marquette; Summerfield Lodge No. 354, Summerfield; Wellsville Lodge No. 356, Wellsville; Alta Vista LodgeNo. 357, Alta Vista; Turon Lodge No. 358, Turon; Sylvan GroveLodge No. 359, Sylvan Grove; Geneseo Lodge No. 361, Geneseo; Powhattan Lodge No. 363, Powhattan; Valley Center Lodge No. 364,. Valley Center; Bonner Springs Lodge No. 366, Bonner Springs; Plains Lodge No. 367, Plains; Stohrville Lodge No. 368, Bluff City; Roger' E. Sherman Lodge No. 369, Kansas City; Maple Hill Lodge No. 370, Maple Hill; Macksville Lodge No. 371, Macksville; Delavan Lodge No. 375, Delavan; Grand View Lodge No. 376, Bucklin; Waldron Lodge No. 377, Waldron; Zenda Lodge No. 378, Zenda; Buffalo Lodge No. 379, Buffalo; White City Lodge No. 380, White City; Wilsey Lodge No. 382, Wilsey; McDonald Lodge No. 383, McDonald; Tyro Lodge No. 386, Tyro; Emmett Lodge No. 387, Emmett; Spearville Lodge No. 388, Spearville; Natoma Lodge No. 390, Natoma; Saffordville Lodge No. 395, Saffordville; Wakefield Lodge No. 396, Wakefield; Lindsborg Lodge No. 397, Lindsborg; Mullinville Lodge No. 399, Mullinville; Melody Lodge No. 400, Ottawa; Wakarusa Lodge No. 402, Wakarusa; St. Francis Lodge No. 404, St. Francis; Kensington Lodge No. 405, Kensington; Arma Lodge No. 408, Arma; Haviland Lodge No. 409, Haviland; Climax Lodge No. 411, Climax; Wilmore Lodge No. 412, Wilmore; Perry Lodge No. 415, Perry; Sharon Springs Lodge No. 417, Sharon Springs; Codell Lodge No: 418, Codell; Delia Lodge No. 419, Delia; Lecompton Lodge No. 420, Lecompton; Selden Lodge No. 423, Selden; Claflin Lodge No. 424, Claflin; Turner Lodge No. 425, Turner; Burdick Lodge No. 429, Burdick; Goff Lodge No. 430, Goff; Minneola Lodge No. 431, Minneola; Deerfield Lodge No. 432, Deerfield; Bestor G. Brown Lodge No. 433, Wichita; Overland
328
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Park Lodge No. 436, Overland Park; West Gate Lodge No. 438, Kansas City; Beaumont Lodge No. 439, Beaumont; Rexford Lodge No. 442, Rexford; Kanorado Lodge No. 443, Kanorado; Stanley Lodge No. 444, Stanley; Hutchinson Lodge No. 445, Hutchinson; Satanta Lodge No. 446, Satanta. MASONIC DISTRICTS.
At the last Annual Communication charters were issued for new lodges at Allen, Bendena, Johnson, Rexford, Kanorado, Stanley, Hutchinson, and Satanta, and they were assigned to the following districts: Allen Lodge No. 335 placed in District No. 27. Bendena Lodge No. 440 placed in District No. 1. . Johnson Lodge No. 441 placed in District No. 74. Rexford Lodge No. 442 placed in District No. 71. Kanorado Lodge No. 443 placed in District No. 71. Stanley Lodge No. 444 placed in District No. 5. Hutchinson Lodge No. 445 placed in District No. 41. Satanta Lodge No. 446 placed in District No. 74. CHANGES IN DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTERS.
Owing to vacancies in the office of District Deputy Grand Master which occured during the year in several of our districts, the Grand Master appointed the following brethren for the unexpired term: District No. 34 District No. 66 District No. 74
LAUREN D . RIGG LLOYD D . L E R O Y BYRON FOWLER
Leon ...Washington Ulysses
GRAND REPRESENTATIVES NEAR OTHER GRAND LODGES. During the year the following brethren were appointed as Grand Representatives of our Grand Lodge near other Grand Lodges: Indiana
RUDOLF H . HORST
Missouri New York Ohio South Australia
CHARLES L . WOODS ALBERT C . BURDICK CHARLES L . MINOR WILLIAM HENRY ESSEX..:
West Virginia
PARE H . LORENTZ
South Bend Rolla Lowville Springfield Adelaide
Buckhannon
GRAND REPRESENTATIVES NEAR OUR GRAND LODGE. On account of non-attendance at our Annual Communications it was deemed expedient to make some changes in our Grand Representatives and the following brethren were therefore recommended and in due time commissions were received:
1925-26.
•
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
Alberta
PAUL M . MARTIN
Chile... Connecticut .-. District of Columbia
FRED ROY ALFORD CLARENCE R . ATEN FERRIS M . HILL....
Georgia Idaho Minnesota
GLICK FOCKELE STEPHEN A. D. GEAUQUE CLARENCE E . FARNSWORTH
Nebraska Nevada New Jersey North Carolina Victoria Wisconsin
EARL T . PYLE THEODORE H . DOHRER GUY W . BROWN R. NELSON LONG CLARENCE M . CROSBY GuY R. CuRRiER
329
Highland
Fort Scott Dodge CityEmporia LeRoy Manhattan Hoisington
Clay Center Arkansas City Beloit Hoxie Saint Francis Kensington
INDEXING PROCEEDINGS.
In accordance with the usual custom the Annual Proceedings of our Grand Lodge for 1925 were indexed and which completes the work to date. ADDITIONAL MUSEUM CASES.
The over-taxed cases in our library and museum justified the purchase of two additional ones, which no doubt will provide accommodations for additions along these lines for possibly two or three years. STEEL TRANSFER CASES.
To provide necessary room for correspondence and documents of various kinds it was necessary to purchase five cases of four drawers each. This additional space will no doubt furnish necessary accommodations for_^several years. DECORATIONS IN GRAND LODGE BUILDING.
In 1921 the offices of the Grand Master, Council ol Administration, Grand Secretary and Assistant, the rotunda and the large and small work offices were painted and decorated, leaving the remainder of the building to be given attention.later. In 1923 the library, including the mezzanine floor, the up-stairs halls, rotunda and offices of the Grand Chapter, Grand Council and Grand Commandery were painted and decorated, leaving the basement and the book rooms of the offices up-stairs to be finished later. As it is almost nine years since the building was completed the walls in these book rooms had become badly soiled and after giving the matter careful thought it was deemed best to have them painted during the summer. This work was done in an excellent manner and the interior of the building has now been painted throughout, except the basement, and what is called the unloading and packing room upstairs.
330
PMOCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
HISTORY OP LODGES.
Your Grand Secretary once more appeals to our lodges which have not already done so, to furnish historical sketches of the lives of the brethren who were the promoters in the establishment of their lodge, as well as a complete history surrounding the first steps taken to establish the same, and furnish pictures, by-laws, notices of meetings and other important matter of this kind, which will eventually be of inestimable value to the Craft of the several lodges in this jurisdiction. During the year your Grand Secretary made another appeal to the lodges, as indicated in the following communication: The Grand Lodge has provided special filing cases in the Library and Museum for no other purpose than furnishing a safe place for every lodge to deposit historical information. These beautiful cases contain a series of drawers, each one of which bears the number of the particular lodge to which it is assigned. Since these cases were installed eight years ago, your Grand Secretary has annually, through his report, called this matter to the attention of the lodges. It is to be regretted, however, that but few lodges have taken advantage of this opportunity to build up a history of their lodge which would reflect groat credit not only upon the present generation but on those who will follow. The pioneers in a majority of our lodges have answered the final summons: in other lodges they are fast passing away, and it is to these brethren we must look, very largely, for much valuable informattion concerning the establishment and early history of their lodges. This reference is a serious proposition and should be given immediate attention and not be delayed by indifference on the part of some committee. In the selection of a committee for this purpose, great care should be taken to see that none are appointed who cannot give the subject the attention it deserves and act quickly. The Masters should be at the head of, or at least cooperate with, this committee and see to it that it properly functions From past experience much of this work has been neglected on account of the failure of the committee appointed to carry forward the work. It is not too late for every lodge in tliis iurisdiction to compile definite and reliable historical data relative to the conditions wliich prompted the few brethren to meet and eventually secure the estabUshment of their lodge, and give a brief account of those who were the promoters, together with a statement as to their business, profession or trade, and any outstanding cr djstinctit'e characteristics they may have possessed. To this should be added an account of the building in which they first met, and other historical information. In addition to this, By-Laws, programs of every kind and description which have been Issued by the lodge, as well as pictures, both interior and exterior, not only of the present building in which the lodge is located but also of all buildings in which the lodge has held its communications, giving the dates, as nearly as possible, of their occupancy. Fiftieth Anniversary Programs are particularly important and should be placed on permanent file in the archives of the Grand Lodge. Do not overlook the importance of sending In small announcements and other information of that kind, which may seem to be of little or no consequence a t this time, but which wiU eventually prove to be of great Interest to the members. Without doubt, much of this material can be found in possession of your own members, particularly the older ones and I feel quite certain they will gladly cooperate and contribute their mite to perpetuate the history of your lodge. In view of the fact that the Grand Lodge meets In the city of Topeka next February, it is highly important that this matter be given immediate attention
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
331
in order that the brethren in attendance at that time may not find the particular drawer assigned to their lodge vacant. In the past, when Grand Lodge has met in Topelia, many of the brethren have tieen very much humiliated to find that the receptacle provided for their lodge contained practically nothing. The foregoing is submitted in the hope that it will receive Immediate attention. Where lodges have already complied with the above, this communication will apply only to the extent of sending in additional contributions, such as programs, pictures, and the like.
It is sincerely hoped that these appeals will not be disregarded, but on the contrary, that the brethren will take hold of this work and see to it that their lodge complies with these suggestions at the very earliest moment. CONFERRING DEGREES IN LESS THAN THE REQUIRED TIME.
Attention is again called to the matter of conferring degrees where the necessary lawful time has not elapsed between the first and second, and second and third degrees. In posting u p the historical registry it was found the following lodges violated Section 6 of ArticleVI of our Constitution in this particular: Oskaloosa Lodge No. 14, Oskaloosa; Altoona Lodge No. 118, Altoona; Dexter Lodge No. 156, Dexter; Soldier Lodge No. 240, Soldier; Ashland Lodge No. 277, Ashland. REDUCED RAILROAD FARE.
As a matter of record only your Grand Secretary announces that the railroads have granted us a rate of one and one-half fare for this Annual Communication. LIST OF REGULAR LODGES.
Your Grand Secretary would ask for the necessary appropriation to purchase sufficient copies of the List of Regular Lodges to furnish all our lodges during the present year. It is customary to supply these pamphlets to our lodges every two years and as this was done in 1924 the time has arrived when another edition should be purchased. MEMBERS OF DEFUNCT LODGES.
Under Section 62, as amended in 1924, your Grand Secretary herewith submits the names of the following members of defunct lodges, as indicated under the several heads, who have neglected to pay to the Grand Secretary the amount they were owing their lodge at the time the charter was surrendered or revoked, and the accrued Grand Lodge per capita taxes, and are therefore subject to suspension at this Annual Communication: Star Lodge No. MARQUARD.
69, Hanover.—ADOLPH
H . KOENIG;
HENRY
Allen Lodge No. 335, Allen.—HUGH L . BROCK, JAMES D . CLAPP, MiLTON N . FROST, PAUL PIKET, CHARLES W . THORNLEY.
332
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February;
BOOKS OP ANNUAL RETURNS.
In submitting a report last year covering errors found in the Books of Annual Returns which were sent in to the Grand Secretary for verification and correction covering the years 1919 to 1923, special mention was made of the Book of Annual Returns from Wetmore Lodge No. 53 being the only one which was absolutely void of errors. In some. manner another book under the same head—that of Emerald Lodge No. 289 of Lakin, was omitted. Reference is paricularly made to this over-sight on account of the many years of service of their venerable and faithful Secretary, Brother FRANCIS L . PIERCE, who is now closing his thirty-fifth year, and whose picture appeared in our 1923 Proceedings, at which time he was serving his thirty-third consecutive year as Secretary. .
CARD FORM OF OFFICIAL RECEIPT.
Under the authority of the Grand Lodge, through the report of the Committee on Jurisprudence one year ago, a standard form of card receipt for dues was prepared, being worded the same as the paper receipts, and a communication was mailed to all lodges under date of August 28, 1925, stating that these card form of receipts were now printed and ready for distribution and that lodges could use which ever style they preferred. TRANSCRIPT OF TRIALS.
The following transcripts have been sent up and turned over to M.'.W.\ ELRICK C . COLE, chairman of the Committee.on Jurisprudence, for review and report at this Annual Communication: Appeals from the decision of Mulvane Lodge No. 201 of Mulvane; Mt. Vernon Lodge No. 145 of Belolt, the case having been sent to this lodge on a change of venue from Phillipsburg Lodge No. 184, and which was ordered by the Grand Lodge; Robinson Lodge No. 159, Robinson; Brookville Lodge No. 209, Brookville; Long Island Lodge No. 231, Long Island; Rosedale Lodge No. 333, Rosedale. EDWARD W. OSGOOD.
The Grand Secretary included with his report at the Annual Communication in 1923, the pictures of the three oldest Secretaries in our jurisdiction, one of whom was W.-. EDWARD W . OSGOOD, Secretary of Leavenworth Lodge No. 2. The line of these distinguished brethren is now broken as Brother OSGOOD, who was serving his fiftieth consecutive year as Secretary of that lodge, passed hence on May 3, 1925. His remains were laid away in beautiful Mount Muncie cemetery at Leavenworth, in the presence of many of the brethren, some of whom had been neighbors and personal
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
333
friends for more than half a century. Your Grand Secretary joined with the brethren in Leavenworth in paying our last respects to this venerable Mason. AMENDMENTS TO LAWS.
From time to time amendments to our laws have been printed and liberally distributed among the lodges and others interested. During the past year your Grand Secretary deemed this matter to be of sufficient importance to have all amendments enacted since the publication of our present code in 1913 printed in consecutive or chronological order under the several heads of amendments to Constitution and By-Laws, as well as the Decisions of the Grand Masters. After the work was completed a copy was mailed to all lodges, District Deputy Grand Masters, Grand and Past Grand Officers and others interested. The Secretaries of all lodges were requested to paste these amendments in their proper places in the copy of the laws in possession of their lodge, and the District Deputy Grand Masters were requested to see that these instructions were followed on the occasion of making their official visits. PURCHASE OP BONDS.
During the year $6,000.00 of our funds were invested in Fourth Liberty Loan Bonds, a list of which appears in the report of the Grand Treasurer. CERTIFICATES FOR TRANSFER—DIMITS.
There is a doubt in the minds of many of our brethren concerning the legality of By-Law 170, relative to the transfer of membership based on Section 2 of Article V and Section 5 of Article VI of-the Constitution, and By-Law 115 of the Grand Lodge laws. Section 2 of Article V specifically provides that every petitioner for Letters of Dispensation shall produce satisfactory evidence of dimission from the lodge of which he was last a member. By-Law 170 provides that Certificates for Transfer may be used for the purpose of signing a petition for Letters of Dispensation. This is in direct conflict with Section 2 of Article V of the Constitution. By-Law 115 provides for the granting of a certificate of dimission and the necessary proceedings before the lodge can grant the request. When such request is made, it may be orally or in writing at any Stated Communication, and if the brother applying therefor is not an elective officer, has no charges pending against him and is clear on the books the request may be granted upon a majority vote. If, however, any brother give notice, of the desire to prefer charges against the applicant action shall be deferred not exceeding thirty days in which to file the charges. Section 5 of Article VI of the Constitution provides that a member not holding an elective office, against whom no charges are pending and
334
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
who is under no pecuniary liabilities to his lodge, is entitled to a dimit when a majority of the members sustain his application. The note under this section of the Constitution provides that the vote of the lodge dimits a member and cannot be reconsidered: the certiiicate issued by the secretary is merely evidence of dimission. In view of the above if under By-Law 170 the granting of a certificate carries with it full authority to issue a dimit later on, but of the same date as the issuance of the certificate, the brother's membership must of necessity terminate when the certificate is granted. It therefore appears from the foregoing that to transfer membership other than in the manner provided for in the Constitution and By-Law 115, it will be necessary to amend the Constitution and this By-Law. LODGE FUNDS.
Our Grand Lodge has always provided a standard form of record book in which the treasurer is expected to keep a correct account of the money, received from the secretary, and likewise a record of the warrants drawn against the treasury. It appears, however, that in many lodges the treasurers keep no record book whatever, but depend on the ordinary method of depositing funds in the bank and drawing against them, either through a checking system or instructing the bank to honor the lodge warrants. In other instances, the secretary does not turn the funds over to the treasurer, but deposits them occasionally in the bank to the account of the treasurer. It also appears that frequently the secretary deposits all the funds in the bank under his own name and at times during the year hands the treasurer his check for moneys deposited. The above manner of handling the funds has demonstrated that it is dangerous and in some instances has resulted in the misappropriation of large amounts of lodge money. METHOD OF PAYING GRAND LODGE DUES.
Notwithstanding the adoption by the Grand Lodge of a standard form of record books and blanks to be used by all lodges, which includes a form of warrant for the payment of all claims against a lodge, it is found that in the payment of Grand Lodge dues many personal checks of secretaries are used, indicating that not only the per capita tax but the settlement of all bills against the lodge is paid in the same manner. This naturally raises the question whether all money received by the secretary is paid over to the treasurer and whether the treasurer is paying out moneys of the lodge on the order of the Worshipful Master with the consent of the lodge. The new warrant is in practically the same form as the drafts now used by banks, indicating that it is drawn on the treasurer, and pay-
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
335
able at a certain bank in which the funds are kept, thereby granting to every lodge an up-to-date business system for keeping and protecting the funds of the lodge. The practice of paying Grand Lodge dues by personal checks of the secretaries has grown to an extent where the method of handling the funds of such lodges should receive consideration at the hands of the Grand Lodge. ILLEGAL SUSPENSIONS.
From the annual reports for 1925 it appears that a large number of members were reported suspended for non-payment of dues at a time other than that provided for in Sections 124 and 125 of the Grand Lodge By-Laws. Section 125 was amended last year providing that the second notice should be ordered within sixty days after the Stated Communication next preceding St. John's Day in December (the 27th). The dates of many of the suspensions for the past year indicate that the second notice was not ordered sent within the sixty days. In all such cases where the suspension was manifestly illegal some action should be taken by this Grand Lodge authorizing the Grand Secretary to order such names restored to the roll of members and the lodges interested required to pay all back dues and assessments. HISTORY OF GRAND LODGE.
Your Grand Secretary has made an appeal to our lodges for a number of years to prepare historical sketches of the early history of their organizations, as well as assembling historical data such as by-laws, programs, pictures, not only of their present quarters but wherever possible other buildings in which they have held their Communications. This is not only of great importance to the local lodge, but is equally so to the Grand Lodge. The earliest history of the Grand Lodge was compiled by R.". W.'. Brother ERASMUS T . CARR, who served as Grand Secretary from 1861 to 1870. His sketch of the lodges in the Territory of Kansas at the time of the formation of our Grand Lodge, is printed as an introduction to Volume I, Proceedings of Kansas, 1855 to 1865. i=\^ The next compilation of the early history of Masonry in this jurisdiction was prepared by your present Grand Secretary in 1905 and was submitted to the Grand Lodge at its Semi-Centennial Celebration held in the city of Topeka, February 22, 1906, and was published as a souvenir edition. While both of the above are of untold value to the Masons of Kansas yet they furnish only the foundation stone on which we should build the history of Masonry in this jurisdiction. As evidence of the importance of our Grand Lodge taking immediate steps looking toward the preparation of a history of Masonry in Kansas it is only necessary to call attention to the fact that every
336
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
pioneer, as well as those of the first generation of Masonry in this jurisdiction, have passed away. We must therefore look to the few of the second generation who are now living. Of this generation we have but few who were in touch with the affairs of the Grand Lodge in the early days who could furnish information from which to prepare a history outside of that which appears in our printed record. Without further comment this subject is submitted to the Grand Lodge for such action as they may deem best. QUESTIONABLE DATES OF HOLDING ANNUAL ELECTIONS.
Section 6 of Article V of the Constitution of the Grand Lodge provides that the annual election of officers of Lodges shall be held at the Stated Communication next preceding St. John's Day in December. Notwithstanding the reports heretofore made on this subject by the Grand Secretary, a number of our Lodges have disregarded the law in holding their annual elections on a date other than that authorized by the Grand Lodge. From the annual reports showing the time for holding the Stated Communications, the following Lodges appear to have held their annual election on the wrong date and the subject is herewith submitted for such action as the Grand Lodge may deem best.
Osage Valley No. 24, Osawatomie Delphos No. 202, Delphos Urbana No. 239, Urbana Lane No. 339, Lane Olive No. 35t), Elgin Elkhart No. 422, Elkhart
Elections held. December 3 December 1 January 8,1925 December 10 December 2 December 7
Should have been held. December 17 December 15 December 17 December 24 December 16 December 21
Secretaries of the following lodges failed to enter on their annual reports the date on which they held their annual election: Eldora No. 28, Mapleton; Seneca No. 39, Seneca; Halstead No. 46, Halstead; Mackey No. 48, Effingham; Shawnee No. 54, Shawnee; Wamego No. 75, Wamego; Luray No. 153, Luray; Mountain Slope No. 186, Oberlin; Henri No. 190, Tonganoxie; Garfield No. 285, Leonardville; Webb No. 275, Meade; Ashland No. 277, Ashland; Beulah No. 291, Bunker Hill; Comanche No. 295, Coldwater; Avon No. 305, Westphaha; Norwick No. 319, Norwich; Oneida No. 323, Oneida; Rob Morris No. 332, Preston; Scammon No. 351, Scammon; Delavan No. 375, Delavan; Arma No. 408, Arma; Turner No. 425, Turner; Minneola No. 431, Minneola.
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
337
Secretaries of the following lodges failed to report the time for holding their Stated Communications: Halstead No. 46, Halstead; Wamego No. 75, Wamego;. Muscotah No. 116, Muscotah; Sedgwick No. 139, Sedgwick; Fraternal No. 170, Linn; Greeley No. 211, Greeley; Stafford No. 252, Stafford; Ashland No. 277, Ashland; Beulah No. 291, Bunker Hill; Oneida No. 323, Oneida; Rob Morris No. 332, Preston; Scammon No. 351, Scammon; Turner No. 425, Turner. DATES OF THE ISSUANCE OP CHARTERS.
During the past year your Grand Secretary has carefully reviewed the records of the Grand Lodge with a view of ascertaining the correct dates on which the charters of all our lodges were granted, and wherever necessary changes of dates have been made in the Synopsis of Returns as they appear in the advance reports before Grand Lodge and in the Proceedings subsequent to this Annual Communication.' In the earlier history of the Grand Lodge there was not the importance attached to giving a correct date concerning certain transactions of our Grand Lodge that is exercised today and we therefore find that a great many charters do not bear the date on which they were actually authorized by the Grand Lodge. In a number of instances it will be noticed that the dates as published in the Proceedings of this Annual Communication do not correspond with the dates on the charters; however, those listed this year in the Synopsis of Returns can be depended upon as the actual date on which every Warrant of Constitution was granted by the Grand Lodge. A number of lodges have celebrated the Fiftieth Anniversary of their lodge on dates other than that which is historically correct, and as time advances many more of these meetings will occur and it is highly desirable that they be held on the correct date. GRAND S E C R E T A R Y ' S CERTIFICATE.
During the year the following Grand Secretary's certificate was issued: No. 819. PAUL PYKET, Allen Lodge No. 335, Allen, Kansas. OFFICIAL CIRCULARS.
During the year the following communications have been issued: No. 303. Official circular Annual Communication Grand Lodge, 1925. No. 304. Identification certificate and instructions to ticket agents in connection with application for reduced rates. No. 305. Communication relative to amendments to laws, and enclosing a complete set.
338
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
No. 306.
Communication advising lodges relative to card form of receipt for dues.
No. 307.
Memorial for M.-.W.'. JAMES H . MCCALL.
No. 308.
Communication relative to lodges furnishing a history of the establishment of their lodge. No. 309. Communication relative to mailing second notice concerning payment of annual dues. No. 310.
Memorial for M.-.W.-. WILLIAM I. STUART. ANNUAL REPORTS.
Reports have been received from all lodges in this jurisdiction and all Grand Lodge dues paid. While this is in a measure a high compliment to the secretaries of the lodges, yet it is accompanied with a sense of regret that this condition was not attained by every lodge complying with the laws of the Grand Lodge. To accomplish this your Grand Secretary had to resort to the telephone, telegraph and an almost untold number of appeals by letter to a number of the secretaries. The greater portion of these appeals were to secretaries whose reports or remittances were in error and had been returned for correction. As reported heretofore, these secretaries are the REAL cause of delay and annoyance to your Grand Officers and there should be some provision in our law regulating the prompt return of incorrect reports and remittances. The following lodges failed to transmit their reports on or before January 10th and are therefore deprived of representation at this Annual Communication: Arcana Lodge No. 31, Doniphan. Mountain Slope Lodge No. 186, Oberlin. Westmoreland Lodge No. 257, Westmoreland. Unity Lodge No. 273, Clearwater. Sharon Springs Lodge No. 417, Sharon Springs. Rob Morris Lodge No. 332, Preston. Waldron Lodge No. 377, Waldron. A complete summing up of the membership as noted by the summary following, shows our net gain of 2,133 to be 643 less than one year ago. This decrease is almost wholly due to the number raised as it will be observed that there were but 3,562 raised in 1925 as against 4,095 the year previous. It is especially interesting to note the comparison of changes in membership in the past two years. In 1924 there were 833 admissions, in 1925, 878; in 1924 there were 188 restorations, in 1925, 165; in 1924, 1,103 dimissions, in 1925, 1,103; in 1924, 844 deaths, in 1925, 839; in 1924 there were 557 suspensions, in 1925, 547.
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
339
Section 95 of the Grand Lodge Laws, providing for the payment of the annual per capita tax on or before January 20th, was adopted nineteen years ago, at a time when we had but little more than 28,000 members on the rolls. Since that time the membership has increased and at the close of the past year, as shown by the reports, we have more than 80,000 members. For your Grand Secretary to check this great number of names, as well as all changes in membership, making a total of more than 100,000. names, adding to the records many thousand entries, handling a vast correspondence and getting all necessary copy ready for the printer in time to be piit in shape for submission to the Grand Lodge has almost become a physical impossibility, and especially so when these deferred payments more than double the work necessary in handling such reports and completing the Grand Lodge records. With our modern system of paying money through banks and other commercial channels the withholding of the payment of Grand Lodge dues for ten days after the time required for transmitting the annual reports is uncalled for and only tends to tie up the work in the office of the Grand Secretary and make it almost impossible to close the accounts and get the necessary information in the hands of your Grand Master and the committees for presentation to Grand Lodge. The question of additional help has no bearing on the subject whatever, as but one person can work upon the same record book at the same time; therefore it is not a question of additional clerical services, but one of handling the accounts and records of the Grand Lodge. Under the laws of the Grand Lodge all moneys paid out of the •treasury must be authorized.by the lodge at a Stated Communication, except for charity and the payment of Grand Lodge dues and any special assessments, which can be paid without authority of the lodge and the Master has full authority to countersign an order upon the treasurer. Therefore, the Grand Lodge per capita tax and any special assessments can be paid out of the treasury without waiting for a Stated Communication of the lodge. Your Grand Secretary therefore recommends, a change in the law which will require the payment of the Grand Lodge per capita tax and assessments on or before January 10th of each year.
340
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SUMMARY FOR 1925. Number members December 31, 1924
78,041
Increase. Number Number Number Number Number Number Number
initiated passed raised admitted restored omitted last report members lodges U. D
Number Number Number Number Number
dimitted died suspended .• expelled erroneously reported
3,664 3,599 3,562 878 165 7 23=4,635 Decrease.
Net gain Number members December 31, 1925
1,103 839 546 11 3=2,502 2,133 80,174
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
341
ESTIMATED REVENUE AND EXPENSES FOR THE ENSUING YEAR.
Revenue. Fifty cents per capita on 78,041 Charter fees Miscellaneous Amount from Grand Chapter, Grand Council and Grand Commandery toward maintenance of building
$39,040 50 20 00 3,500 00 1,775 00
Expenses. Assistant to Grand Secretary 3,500 00 Committee allowance (By-Law 49) 150 00 Expenses Grand Lodge Communication 500 00 Expenses and per diem of Lecturer 1,500 00 Grand Secretary's incidentals 1,200 00 Grand Treasurer's bond premium 87 50 Grand Secretary's bond premium 10 00 Grand Master's contingent fund 1,000 00 Grand Master's salary 800 00 Grand Treasurer's salary. 100 00 Grand Secretary's salary 1,800 00 Grand Secretary's honorarium 1,200 00 Grand Master's apron , 61 50 Grand Officers' portraits 50 00 Historical Registry and Abstract 300 00 Library furniture, binding, etc 1,000 00 List of Regular Lodges : 160 75 Mileage to Representatives (By-Law 51) 3,000 00 Mileage and expenses (By-Laws 49 and 50) 1,600 00 Minor salaries (By-Law 48)..-. 150 00 Office and Library Building 2,500 00 Printing Annual Proceedings 3,200 00 Postage and express 600 00 Private Secretary, Grand Master 600 00Salary Chairman Committee on Correspondence (By-Law 49) 300 00 Stationery and Printing 800 00Stenographic and Clerical help 3,000 00 Taxes 3,000 Oft
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1925-26.
GBAJSfD LODGE OF KANSAS.
No. 395 396 397 ; 398 399 400 401...-. 402 403 404 405 406...... 407 408. 409 410 411 412 413 414 , 415 416 417 418 419 420 421 422 423 424 425 426 427 428 429 430 431 432..... 433 434 435 436 437 438 439 440 441 442 443 444 445 446 U. D. Kingsdown
;
Grand Lodge Dues. $ 68 00 100 00 157 00 54 00 47 00 150 00 66 00 116 00 ; 69 00 87 00 106 00 84 00 64 00 138 00 89 00 ; 44 00 60 00 53 00 60 00 63 00 91 00 612 00 63 00 65 00 67 00 66 00 67 00 70 00 39 00 44 00 63 00 -. 31 00 48 00 35 00 33 00 42 00 47 00 40 00 231 00 58 00 37 00 74 00 68 00 65 00 29 00 27 00 18 00 27 00 19 00 46 00 119 00 25 00 9,012 00
349
Fees (3W
Raisings.
10 20 165 25 20 15 45 45 5 10 10 5
00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00
30 105 55 30
00 00 00 00
Total. 68 00 110 00 222 00 79 00 62 00 180 00 126 00 136 00 79 00 92 00 126 00 104 00 74 00 203 00 104 00 84 00 65 00 68 00 80 00 83 00 126 00 627 00 93 00 90 00 72 00 86 00 87 00 95 00 59 00 49 00 83 00 46 00 68 00 55 00 48 00 42 00 57 00 60 00 396 00 83 00 57 00 89 00 113 00 110 00 34 00 37 00 28 00 32 00 19 00 76 00 224 00 80 00 30 00
$17,815 00
$97,827 00
$ $
10 65 25 15 30 60 20 10 5 20 20 10 65 15 40
00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 5 00 15 00 20 00 20 00 35 00 15 00 30 00 25 00 5 00 20 00 20 00 25 00 20 00 5 00 28 00 15 00 20 00 20 00 15 00
350
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SCHEDULE " B . "
Being amount returned by subordinate lodges for the year ending December 31, 1924: Grand Lodge Fees on No, Name. Dues. Raisings. Total . 5 Washington $ 298 00 $ 70 00 $ 368 00 82 Tuscan 54 00 20 00 74 00 89 Home '..... 77 00 35 00 112 00 196 Madison 104 00 60 00 164 00 218 Landmark 88 00 88 00 278 Cosmos 144 00 25 00 169 00 334 Oak Hill 82 00 5 00 87 00 379 Buffalo 87 00 20 00 107 00 394 Coats 100 00 75 00 175 00 Total
$ 1,034 00
$310 00
$1,344 00
SCHEDULE " C . "
Being amount dispensation fees received from the following lodge: U. D. U. D.
Name. Kingsdown
Location. Kingsdown
Amount. $20 00
SCHEDULE " D . "
Being amount received account of charter fees for the year ending December 31, 1925: No. 335 440 441 442 443 • 444 445 446
Name. Allen Bendena Johnson.: Rexford Kanorado Stanley Hutchinson Satanta Total
:
Amount. $ 20 00 20 00 20 00 20 00 20 00 20 00 20 0 0 ' 20 00 $160 00
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
SCHEDULE
351
"E."
Being amount received account of contributions to the Endowment Fund of the Kansas Masonic Home: Cherokee Lodge No. 119 Burdick Lodge No. 429 Jacob Lund, member Lafayette Lodge No. 16 William Ralston, member Sterling Lodge No. 171 Fred Ball, member Kaw Lodge No. 272 Walter L Ferguson, member Kaw Lodge No. 272 Total
;
$25 10 7 2 2 12
00 00 79 50 00 00
$59 29
SCHEDULE
"F."
Being amount received account bond investment for the year ending December 31, 1925: Interest, School District No. 12, Ottawa County $ 5,0 Interest, Spring Township, Harper County 50 Interest, Fourth Liberty Loan Bonds 977 Interest, Spring Township, Harper County, less exchange of $1.00 11 Interest, Board of Education, City of Larned 100 Interest, School District No. 50, Brown County. 105 Interest, School District No. 79, Greenwood County 37 Interest, Spring Township, Harper County., 25 Interest, Fourth Liberty Loan Bonds 1,105 Bonds Nos. 17, 18, 19, 20, School District No. 12, Ottawa County.., , 2,000 Bonds Nos. 18, 14, Spring Township, Harper County 1,000 Bond No. 13, School District No. 79, Greenwood County.... 500 Interest, School District No. 79, Greenwood County 25 Interest, School District No. 50, Brown County 105 Interest, Board of Education, City of Larned 100 Total
00 00 50 50 00 00 50 00 03 00 00 00 00 00 00
$6,191 53
352
PnOCEEDJNGS
OF THE
February,
ToPEKA, KANSAS, January 21, 1926. ALBERT K . WILSON, Grand Secretary, In account with T H E M . - . W / . GRAND LODGE OP KANSAS. £)j.
CASH ACCOUNT.
Received from lodges, as per Schedule " A " $ 97,827 00 Received from lodges, as per Schedule " B " 1,344 00 Received as per Schedule " C " 20 00 Received as per Schedule " D " 160 00 Received as per Schedule " E " 59 29 Received as per Schedule " F " 6,191 53 Received account unexpended portion Grand Master's contingent fund (Loucks, 1925) 57 42 Received account Sample Standard Blanks, Lodges Nos. 87, 121, 192, 207, 209, 251, 277) 313, 344, 413, 428.. 11' 00 Received account certification to Life Membership Certificates 51 00 Received account fees and dues from members of defunct lodges 17 00 Received account overpayment of mileage: Lenexa Lodge No. 135, $1.97; Madison Lodge No. 196, $.63; Fred E. Brooks, $3.81; Philip Eugene Stotler, $3.50 9 91 Received account special dispensation fees, (Strain, 1924) 25 00 Received account special dispensation fees, (Loucks, 1925) 250 00 Received account payment for lost Ciphers, Lodges Nos. 106, 113, 291, 323, 343, 372, 379 140 00 Received account sale Historical Cards, Benevolent Lodge No. 98 4 25 Received account refund from Grand Commandery for 100 envelopes and 200 pieces of cardboard 8 15 Received account Book of Annual Returns 3 00 Received account sale of waste paper 4 48 Received account payment for List of Regular Lodges, Lodge No. 220 1 00 Received account loan from Merchants National Bank, Lav/rence, Kansas 10,000 00
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
353
Received account penalty for infringement of jurisdiction, Virginia Lodge No. 315, $30.00; Advance Lodge No. 114, $20.00; ordered paid to Endowment Fund, Masonic Home, by Grand Master $ Received account daily balance interest Received from Grand Chapter, R. A. M., account maintenance Office and Library Building '. Received from Grand Council, R. & S. M., account maintenance Office and Library Building Received from Grand Commandery, K. T., account maintenance Office and Library Building Total
50 00 367 51 850 00 350 00 575 00
$118,376 54
ToPEKA, KANSAS, January 21, 1926. T H E M.-. W . ' . GRAND LODGE OP KANSAS,
In account with ALBERT K : WILSON, Grand Secretary. 1926. Jan. 21.—Paid W. F. March, Grand Treasurer, since last report $118,376 54 Fraternally submitted, ALBERT K .
WILSON,
Grand Secretary.
2
4 4
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Feb. Feb.
Fob. Fob. Feb. Feb. Fob. Fob. Fob. Fob. Fob. Fob. Feb. Feb.
Fob Feb.
4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 17 17 17 17
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2
Feb.
4
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Feb.
2
Feb.
1925.
o
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8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29
7 •
C
Bon S. Paulon, Committee Allowance
2 3 4 5
Jordan Electric Company
.John F. Strlckrott Sullivan Art Store
Ellis & Martin
Southwostern Bell Tel. Co....
Otto R. Senders, Committee AUow-
Elrlck O. Cole, Committee Allowance George F. Beezley, Committee Allow-
Robert H. Montgomery, Committeo
In Favor of
1
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Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar.
51 52 53 54 55 50 57 58 59 00
43 44 45 40 47 48 49 50
Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar.
12 12 12 12
02 03 04 05
Mar. 12 01
5 5 5 5 S S 5 5
Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar.
Mar. 5 42
Mar. 2 41
Mar. 2 40
Mar. 2 39
Feb. 20 Feb. 20 Feb. 26 Feb. 27 Mar. 2
Fob. 20 32 Feb. 26 33
Feb. 19 31
Feb. 17 30
Becktold P r i n t i n g & Book Mfg. Co....| Ellis & M a r t i n , L i b r a r y F u r n i t u r e , Binding, e t c Charles A. I^oucks Ciiarles A. L o i c k s , P r i v a t e Secretary to Grand Master F . H . Wilson ! A. B . Burge Green Scales Albert K, Wilson R a y R u t h r a u l l , E x p , G r a n d Lodge Com'munication M r s . B . S. G u n n , Spl. Appr. Co. of Administration R o b e r t P . McCollocli, Spl. Appr. Co. of A d m i n s t r a t i o n J o n a t h a n J . Wingflold, Spl. Appr. G r a n d Lodge K a n s a s Bankers Surety Co., Grand T r e a s u r e r ' s Bond P r e m i u m Western Union Tele. Co Postal Telograph-Cablo Co Southwestern Bell Tel. Co •Albert K. Wilson Barlus R o m s t e d t Sullivan A r t Store L i b r a r y Bureau... Tlie Lilley C o m p a n y , G r a n d M a s t e r ' s Apron American Railway E x p . Co T o p e k a iSdison C o T o p e k a Edison Co T o p e k a Tee C o m p a n y T o p e k a P u r e W a t e r Co C i t y W a t e r Works Hayes Produce Company Otis E l e v a t o r C o m p a n y Albert K. Wilson I Albert K. Wilson, L i b r a r y F u r n i t u r e , Binding, etc Ivetcheson Printing Co., Printing Ann u a l Proceedings Crane & Company Crane & Company T o p e k a Transfer & Storage C o J o h n F . Striclcrott 179 56
2 00
61 50
87 50
220 52
150 00
80 00
375 00
52 80 600 00 300 00 150 00
$ 1,000 OOi
07 351 50 oo' 25 00
18 OOi 5 00,
9 50:
2 3 12 4 10 7
8 oo;
57 85
4 0 03
121 901
0 04
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94 20 15 40 1 60 40 8 30: 3 18 4 30
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Salaries.
Gr. Master's Contingent Fund.
Incidentals.
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Stationery and Printing.
Postage and Express.
Office and Library Building.
Expenses of Lecturer.
'jtjBtijqaji
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soNiasaoouj
998
Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. May May May May May May May May May May May May May May May May May May May May May May
103 104 105 lOG 107 108 109 110 111 112 113 114 115 116 117 lis 119 120 121 122 123 124 125 126 127 128 129 130
102
94 05 96 97 98 99 100 101
1„ 131 15 132 15 133 15 134 15 135 15 13G
15 15 15 15 15 15 15 23 23
Sullivan Art Store .lolin F. StrlcUrott..: Binory Record Preserving Co Crano & Company Topeka Pure Water Co Topeka Tent & Awning Co...: ;.. Harvey O. Davis Koteheson Pi'lnting Co., Printing Annual Proceedings .J. H. Tatscli, Library Furniture, Binding, etc Albert K. Wilson Western Typewriter Co Remington Typewriter Co Pantagrapli Ptg. & Stationery Co Harvey O. Davis Albert K. Wilson .lordan Electric Company Stanford M. Smart Harvey O. Davis F. H. Wilson A. B. Burge Green Scales Topeka Edison Company Topeka Edison Company Topeka Ice Company George W. Stansfleld H. E. .Jullon, Master John F. Strlckrott Topeka Transfer & Storage Co '.,., Southwestern Bell Tel. Co American Railway Exp. Co Stanford M. Smart Stanford M. Smart Harvey O. Davis Henry L. Woodard, Secy Western Union Tele. Co ,Iohn F. Strlckrott Citizens National Bank, Spl. Appr. Co. of Administration Albert K. AVilson N. E. Keller Sullivan Art Store Crane & Company Topeka Pure Water Co Bailey-Reynolds Chandelier Co 1,029 25
9 50
2,704 70
300 00 150 00
00 50 00 95
10.00 10 90 21 00
20 00 3 82 15 00
20 17 1 15
5 00 43 03 1 00
31 50 7 50 5 00
50
6 23
10 25
4 95
10 00
00 56 40 60 50
40 9 50
80 14 20 1 12
3 35
40 23 06 $
75 44 58 14 72 50
76 83 56 90
70 00
77 20
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157 158 159 100 101 102 163
J u n o 13 104 J u n o 13 105 J u n e 13 106
Juno J uno J uno Juno June J line Juno
1925. M a y 16 137 M a y 16 138 139 M a y IG 140 M a y 25 141 M a y 25 142 M a y 25 143 144 J u n o 2 145 146 147 J line 2 148 J u n e 2 149 J u n o 2 150 J u n e 2 151 J u n o 2 152 J une 2 153 J Lino 2 154 J une 2 155 J u n o 2 150
"3 Q
1
Librarian, Gr. l^odgo of Pennsylvania, L i b r a r y l^'iirniture, Binding, etc..
Alfred C. Stryker, Secy
T h o m a s G. F i t e h , Sec'y. Spl. Appr.
F. H . Wilson
In Favor of
$
7 00
30 00
CO
$
00 00 00 00 00 00
10 00
200 25 450 300 300 150
CO Cii
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WARRANT ACCOUNT—Continued.
$
25 50 50 25 05
14 00 1 45 0 15
20 00 10 00 3 50
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:167 :168 :109 :170 :171 !172 173 174 175 : 170 :177 .178 :179 :180 :181 :182 :183 :184 :185 :180 :187 188 189 « 190 9 :191 9 :192 9 193 9 194 195 9 :190 9 :197 9
25 ;198 25 :199 2 5 ;200 2 5 :201 25 i202 2 5 :203 2 5 ;204 2 5 ;205 2 5 ;206 2 5 ;207 2 7 :208
July July July July July July July July July July July
J u l y 31 ;209 J u l y 31 :210
10 19 19 19 10 19 19 19 26 20 26 26 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2
June •Tune June Juno June Juno June June June June Juno June July July July July July July July July July July July July July July July July July July July
. .
American Multigrapli Sales Co
Citizens N a t i o n a l B a n k , Spl. Appr.
F . H. Wilson .
Albert K. Wilson....
Partridgc-Scotford S t a m p & Stencil Co :
V. H . Wilson
•
5,171 80
300 00 150 00 100 00
300 00 150 00 100 00
11 50 00 50
3 50 2 80
2 50 72 0 92
20 25
3 14 15 3
. 7 00 2 50 8 35
20 00 11 75 35 6 00 $
1 50
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Aug. 4 224 Aug. 4 225 Aug. 4 220 Aug. 4 227 Aug. 17 228 Aug. 17 229 Aug. 17 230 Aug. 17 231 Aug. 17 232 Aug. 2.5 233 Aug. 25 234 Aug. 25 235 Aug. 25 230 237 Sept. 1 238 Sept. 1 239 Sept. 1 240 Sept. 1 241 Sept. 1
1025. J u l y 31 211 J u l y 81 212 J u l y ai 213 J u l y 31 214 J u l y 31 215 Aug. 3 210 Aug. 3 217 Aug. 3 218 Aug. 3 219 Aug. 4 220 Aug. 4 221 Aug. 4 222 Aug. 4 223
•2
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Sullivan A r t Store Kctcheson P r i n t i n g Co F . H . Wilson A. B . Burgc A. T h o m p s o n Green Scales American R a i l w a y E x p . Co Missouri Valley Guide C o Topoka Pure Water Co C i t y W a t e r Works T o p e k a Edison C o m p a n y
L i b r a r y Bureau, L i b r a r y F u r n i t u r e , Binding, e t c $ Library Bureau B u r k o Engraving Co Southvvostern Bell Tel. Co Albert K. Wilson Tlio Charles Mueller Floral Co Albert Iv. Wilson
D. H. Forbes
T o p o k a Edison Co Cliarlos A. Loucks William F r a n k M a r c h Albert K . Wilson Albert K. Wilson
C o n t r a l - T o p c k a P a p e r Co Ci'ano & C o m p a n y
In Favor of
178 25
o e
$
00 00 00 00
300 00 150 00 100 00
200 25 450 300
to
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WARRANT ACCOUNT—Continued.
?
2 50
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9 25 90 10 00
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. .. . . ..
•
1 o
o
b
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03
Library Bureau, Library Furniture,
2 204 2 205 2 200 2 207 2 20K 2 209 2 270
2 271 2 7^9. .•) 273 .1274 .5 275 270 . (' i) 277 7 278
7 f 1( 2( 2( 20
Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct.
Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct.
Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct.
279 280 281 282 283 284
Albert K. Wilson, Chr. Committee on
John F. Strickrott
Robert P. McCoIloch
. .
Thomas G. Fitch, Secy.. Spl. Appr.
Albert K. Wilson F. H. Wilson
B. W . Kraff
Southwestern Bell Tel. Co
Sept. 2 242 Sept. 2 24b Sept. 2 244 Sept. 2 24.'j Sept. 2 24(5 Sept. 2 247 Sept. 2 24K Sept. 4 249 Sept. 4 2.M) Sept. 4 251 Sept. 24 252 Sept. 24 2fiH Sept. 24 254 Sept. 24 255 Sept. 24 250 Sept. 24 257 Sept. 24 258 Sept. 24 259 Sept. 24 200 Sept. 24 201 Sept. 24 202 Sept 2y 203
20 00
35 00
300 00
300 00 150 00 100 00
5 00
10 50
0 07 8 85 4 19
2 50 3 50
15 00 9 77
14 45 1 00
11 50
2 00
'
1 50 1 75
4 85 1 25 150 00
27 00
5 98
1 44 3 35 1 GO
40 1 35 10 50
85 00 1 40 40
1 95
440 eo 1 00 2 10 25
$
01 58
170 78
143 53
CO
Co
•^
o
o b n
315 9 316
Nov.
Nov.
Oct Oct Oct Oct Oct Oct. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov.
Oct Oct
Nov.
28.5
u 3
20 286 20 287 288 289 26 290 26 291 26 292 20 293 26 294 26 295 3 290 3 297 3 298 209 3 300 3 301 3 302 3 303 3 304 3 305 3 30G 307 3 308 309 310 311 312 313 314 5
a 1925.
to
3
•e
H a r v e y O. D a v i s
William Franlc Marcli Albert K. Wilson Albert K. Wilson Ellis & M a r t i n . L i b r a r y F u r n i t u r e ,
A. W. W h i t s i t t
J o r d a n Electric C o m p a n y Albert K. Wilson
Albert K. Wilson
F . L. Peacock, Gr. Sec'y B o n d P r e m . . $ F.H.Wilson
Albert K. Wilson
In Favor of
•
13 00
10 00
§
to
to 3 O
i
200 25 450 300
00 00 00 00
100 00 150 00
.300 do
_to
CO
3
•Ok
'=H o
s ec
WARRANT ACCOUNT—Continued.
S
30 00 00 45 40
7 80
20 00 85
9 5 14 2 5
e
to
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to
c
e/3
$
6 70
.gr
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to'S
c c . to to i^
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$
1 2 1 27 20 6
92 40 60 60 40 87
85 00
39 4 50
to •a a s
$
92 30
07 75
76 66 84 25 71 60
P
H 13!
•^
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Co
b
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to O O
M . L. T r u b y
C o u n t y Treasurer, Shawnee C o u n t y .
G-. D . Wilkinson. L i b r a r y F u r n i t u r e ,
C a p p e r Fmgraving C o m p a n y , G r a n d
Albert K. Wilson
D e c . 17 354
Doc. 17 355
Dec. 19 356
G. D . Wilkinson, Ijibrary F u r n i t u r e ,
3 337
Dec.
C o u n t y Treasurer, Shawnee C o u n t y ,
T . G. F i t c h , Secy., C h a r i t y F u n d C o u n t y Treasurer, Shawnee C o u n t y ,
F . H . Wilson
F . H . Wilson
Stanford M . S m a r t
338 339 340 341 342 343 344 345 340 347 348 349 350 351 352 353
3 330
Dec.
Dec. 3 Dec. 3 Dec. 3 Dec. 3 Dec. 3 Dec. 3 Dec. 3 Dec. 3 Dec. 3 Dec. 3 Dec. 3 Doc. 9 Doc, Dec. 99 Dec. 9 Dec. 11
9 317 9 318 9 319 •24 320 24 321 24 322 '24 323 '24 324 •24 325 •24 326 '24 327 '24 328 '24 329 '24 330 '24 331 24 332 '24 333 H 334 3 335
Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Dec. Doc.
24 98
9 00
00 00
38 9'5
2,842 40
54 92
3,500 OC
300 00 150 00 100 00
00 90 55 75 30 50 90 50
5 9 1 6 10 3 2 0
95 5 00 19 42 7 00
•
6 00
7 00
• 11 34 13 50
7 65
S
100 00
i 52
2 40
1 60 67 80 19 35
8 86 20 66 1 80 80
85 00
28 29
72 70
o
o b o
b
S3
3
2 375 2 370 2 377 378 4 379 4 380 381 e 382
307 308 309 2 370 371 2 372 373 2 374
J a n . 10 383
Jan.
Jan. Jan.
Jan. Jan. Jan.
Jan.
Jan.
Jan.
192G.
Doc. 20 360
1925. 357 D e c . 24 3.58 Doc. 24 359 300 D e c 24 301 Dec. 24 362 D e c . 24 363 Dec. 24 304 Dec. 24 365
o
3
Favor of
Co
Partridgo-Scotford
S t a m p & Stencil
Southwestern Bell Tel. Co T o p e k a Ice C o m p a n y Ebon E . M a c L e o d . C h r
American R a i l w a y E x p . Co T o p e k a Transfer & Storage Co.. Library F u r n i t u r o , Binding, etc..
A. K. Wilson. Spl. Appr. Gr. Master.. Albert K. Wilson T o p e k a P u r e W a t e r Co R e m i n g t o n T y p e w r i t e r Co Crano & C o m p a n y
A. R. Jackson K. O. Sliow Case Wks. Co., L i b r a r y F u r n l t u r c , Binding, etc. $ W . F. Marcli. Gr. Treas., Spl. Appr.
City W a t e r W o r k s
F . H . Wilson A. B . Burgo D. D. Wright
In
13 23
15 00
10,000 00
380 00
•5
S
200 00
300 00 150 00 77 50
W3
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to
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to ^
WARRANT ACCOUNT—Concluded.
S
30 25
12 90
20 00
u C
K
to
S
12 79 2 08
2 85 2 05 2 37
2 85 22 00
c e
c o .
$
3 02
$
1
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1 00
92 40 1 SO 10 94
10 00 3 20
85 00 5 90
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Wilson
T. G. Fitch, M a s o n i c H o m e F u n d .... T. G. Fitch, Spi. Appr. Co. of A d m
J a n . 21 401 J a n . 21 402
00 00 00 00 00 00
3 35 2 50
20 00 2 50 10 50 32 62
85 00
S
11,700 00
674 71 S • 427 50
6,540 34
94,344 86 1,000 00
S
106 38
Sio'i 40
$ 15 63
1,200 00 800 00 600 00
$
345 09
2,000 00
S
171 84
1,500 00
S 100,210 49 S 11,272 50 $ 1,000 00 $ 1 , 0 9 3 62 S991 40 S584 37 $ 2 , 3 4 5 69 $ 1 , 3 2 8 16
17,810 00 . 9 75 59 29
40.087 00
20 00 4 l 25
25 450 300 300 150 100
tVoucher No. 93 cancelled and therefore not included in totals.
A m o i m t in excess of appropriation....
A m o u n t a p p r o p r i a t e d l)y G r a n d Lodge or other legal autliority A m o u n t authorized b y Council of
T. G. Fitch, M a s o n i c H o m e F u n d .... T . G. Fitcli, T a x on Worlc, Masonic
T . G. Fitch, M a s o n i c H o m e F u n d
Albert iv. Wilson. Historical Registry
D. D. Wright
F. H
A l b e r t K . Wilson
396 J a n . 21 397 J a n . 21 398 399 J a n . 21 400
J a n . 16 384 J a n . Ifi 385 386 387 388 389 390 J a n . 10 391 392 393 394 .Tan. 16 J a n . 16 395
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Net income in General Fund. Expended by order of G.\ L:. for regular appr'ns provided by law. Expended by order of G.'. Lodge for special purposes. Expended by order of G.'. M.'. and Council of A dministra~ tion.
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— o e o o o c o ~ j o c n o o r f « . c o » - - b o c n K o r ^ c o c ^ t o b o ^ o c o c n o o 4 ^ ^ 0 - r f .
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Unexpended balance of year s income.
998
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Total
$1,696,218.63
$1,696,218.63
©This includes $10,000.00 paid Masonic Home for loan made in 1905. @This amount includes an appropriation from the General Fund to the Masonic Home of 55,000.06. (Dxhese amounts werefirsttransferred to the Charity Fund, and subsequently to the Masonic Home Fund, together with 32,429.89 from the Charity Fund, making entire amount up to that date $34,666.41 transferred to the Home. (4)ln addition to this amount S2,353.91 was transferred to the Charity Fund from the General Fund during 1903, by order of the Council of Administration. (5)This amount includes $2,353.91 retransfcrred from Charity Fund to General Fund, by order of Grand Lodge. (See page 158, Proceedings 1904.) ©This amount includes $5,000.00 transferred from Charity Fund to General Fund. (See Proceedings 1905, page 348.) (7)This amount includes $10,000.00 borrowed from the Masonic Home, and $5,000.00 donated by the Masons of Topeka. (8)This amount includes the receipt of and the payment to the Grand Treasurer of $3,000.00 borrowed during settlement of accounts of the late Albert Sarbach, and $16,358.99. paid by The Fidelity and Deposit Company, of Baltimore, Maryland. ©These amounts include $24,700.00 invested in bonds. ©This amount includes $10,000.00 donated to the Masonic Home. (iJ)This includes $57,650.00 borrowed and special assessment account new Masonic Grand Lodge Building. (i2)These amounts include $173,248.21 contributed to Masonic Home Rebuilding Fund. (j3)These amounts include $30,035.00 raising fees 1921; $20,998.00, 1922; $22,065.00, 1923; $20,475.00, 1924; $17,810.00, 1925. i (3)This amount includes $147,088.00 Special Assessment for additions to Masonic Home. ] (i5)These items include a $10,000.00 loan to c over deficit of expenses for 1925. Total net receipts for thirty years .-.$1,631,535.50 , Total expenditures and investments $1,096,218 63 Total excess over income 64,683.13
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368
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February^
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
LAWRENCE, KANSAS, December 10, 1924.
At the request of Lawrence Lodge No. 6 and Acacia Lodge No. 9,. Lawrence, Kansas, the M.'.W.'.Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication on the 10th day of December, A. D. 1924, A. L. 5924, in the city of Lawrence, for the purpose of dedicating the Masonic Temple in that city. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: M.'.W.'. W.". W.'. W.-.
ELMER F . STRAIN RuFUS E. MBLVIN CLARENCE E . BIRCH ELIJAH M . OWEN
R.-. W.'. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH
Grand Master. as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden. Grand Treasurer.
Bro. CLITUS B . HOSFOKD Bro. CHARLES A. RICHARD
as Grand Secretary. as Grand Chaplain.
W.'. W.'. Bro. Bro.
as Grand Senior as Grand Junior as Grand. Senior as Grand Junior
JOHN H . ROBINSON ERNEST H . BALCO HARRY B . SPARKS FRANK A. SKOPSTAD
W.-. DAVID M . HORKMANS
Deacon. Deacon. Steward. Steward.
as Grand Marshal.
W.'. HUGH MEANS
as Grand Sword Bearer.
Bro. JAMES I. GLENDINNING W.'. WILLIAM H . EASTMAN
as Grand Pursuivant. as Grand Tyler.
The M.'.W.'. Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the First Degree of Masonry in one of the small lodge rooms on the second floor of the Temple, after which the Grand Lodge accompanied by a number of Past Masters and brethren marched to the large lodge room on the main floor where the Temple was dedicated in accordance with the Ancient Ceremonies. M.-.W.'. WILLIAM L . BURDICK then delivered an address suitable to the occasion, following which the Grand Lodge was closed in Ample Form. ELMER F . STRAIN,
Attest:
Grand Master. CLITUS B . HOSFORD,
as Grand Secretary.
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
369
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
FULTON, KANSAS, March 13, 1925.
At the request of Fulton Lodge No. 210, of Fulton, Kansas, t h e M.-.W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the Odd Fellows Hall a t Prescott, Kansas, on March 13, A. D; 1925, A. L. 5925, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new First Baptist Church, in the city of Prescott, Kansas. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: W.-. FRANK H . N I L E S
as Grand Master.
W.-. GEORGE G . MILLER W.'. DANIEL T . BUNTON Bro. WILLIAM H . CORDES
as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden.
Bro. AUGUST HOFFMAN
as Grand Treasurer.
Bro. RAY H.- WOODS Bro. LAWRENCE B . MOSS
as Grand Secretary. ...as Grand Chaplain.
Bro. EDWARD SINGLETON Bro. EARL MAYFIELD
as Grand Senior Deacon. as Grand Junior Deacon.
Bro. WALTER M . SUTHERLAND
as Grand Marshal.
Bro. HARRY HOUGLAND Bro. HALSEY HARKNESS
as Grand Senior Steward. as Grand Junior Steward.
Bro. WILLIAM CARSE
as Grand Tyler.
The M.'.W.". Grand Lodge was • opened in Form on the first degree of Masonry. The Grand Lodge then repaired to the public street, formed in Grand Procession and marched to the site of the new First Baptist Church, where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity, followed by a splendid address given by our Brother, Rev. G. R. HUME, Pastor, The First Baptist Church, Prescott, Kansas. The Grand Lodge again formed and marched to the Odd Fellows Hall, where the M.'.W.". Grand Lodge was closed in Form on the first degree of Masonry. FRANK H . N I L E S ,
Attest:
as Grand Master. RAY H . WOODS,
as Grand Secretary.
370
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
PITTSBURG, KANSAS, April 11,
1925.
The M.'.W.'.Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of| Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the Masonic Temple of Pittsburg Lodge No. 187, A. F . & A. M., Pittsburg, Kansas, on the 11th day of April, 1925, for the purpose of laying the cornerstone of the new Protestant Hospital. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: W.'. GEORGE F . BEEZLEY
as Grand Master.
W.-. FRED M . HOFFMAN Bro. WALTER HIGDON Bro. EDWARD V. GORRELL
as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden.
Bro. EDGAR C . WEBBER Bro. WILLIAM W . BEINE Rev. and Bro. CLYDE J . ASKINS
as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary. as Grand Chaplain.
Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro.
as as as as
WILLIAM E . ROBERSON AUGUST J. TESSMBR JOHN G . SIMMS HARRY C . WRIGHT
W.-. DWIGHT T . ELGIN
Grand Grand Grand Grand
Senior Junior Senior Junior
Deacon. Deacon. Steward. Steward.
as Grand Marshal.
Bro. DAVID H . MORGAN
as Bearer of Great Lights.
Bro. ADOLPH W . SCHIBFELBBIN
as Grand Tyler.
The M.-.W.".Grand Lodge was opened in Due Form on the first degree of Masonry. The Grand Lodge then marched to the site of the new Protestant Hospital, where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity, Brother, the Rev. EMERY H. GIVEN was the orator for the occasion and delivered a most appropriate address along educational lines. The Grand Lodge then returned to the Masonic Temple, and was closed in Due Form on the first degree of Masonry. GEORGE F . BEEZLEY,
Attest:
as Grand Master. WILLIAM W . BEINE,
as Grand Secretary.
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
371
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
HUTCHINSON, KANSAS, April 28, 1925.
At the request of Reno Lodge No. 140, and Hutchinson Lodge No. 445, of Hutchinson, Kansas, the M.'.W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the Hall of Reno Lodge No. 140, at Hutchinson, Kansas, on the 28th day of April, A. D. 1925, A. L. 5925, at 2:00 P. M., for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new Grace Hospital, in the city of Hutchinson. The M.'.W.'.Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry, with the following officers: M.-.W.-. CHARLES A. LOUCKS R.-. W.-. JOHN W . NBILSON • W.-. CLARENCE-W. PAYNE....as W.-. CHESTER E . LYMAN as W.-. HENRY S. ZiNN ....as
Grand Master. Deputy Grand Master. Grand Senior Warden. Grand Junior Warden. Grand Treasurer.
W.-. ODIE L . BATEMAN
as Grand Secretary.
Bro. W.-. W.-. W.-. W.-.
as Grand Chaplain. as Grand Senior Deacon. Grand Junior Deacon. as Grand Senior Steward. as Grand Junior Steward.
GUY W . WIMMEK SAMUEL S. GRAYBILL JOHN S. RIGG..... JOHN H . PARGETER ALVEENE B . ROGERS
Bro. ERNEST L . WALDORF
W.-. W.-. W.-. W.-.
as Grand Orator.
JAY C . BIGGER :....as Grand SAMUEL H. SiDLiNGER.as Bearer CHARLES V. BROUGHTON as Bearer ALFRED E . NOOMAN as Grand
Marshal. of Great Lights. of Book of Constitution. Sword Bearer.
W.-. CHARLES W . HARMONY.as Grand Tyler.
The Grand Lodge marched to the site of the new Hospital building where the corner-stone. was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity, followed by an address given by Bishop ERNEST L . WALDORF. The Grand Lodge then returned to the Hall of Reno Lodge No. 140 and was closed in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. CHARLES A. LOUCKS,
Attest:
Grand Master. ODIE L . BATEMAN,
as Grand Secretary.
372
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
CONWAY SPRINGS, KANSAS, May 5, 1925.
Upon the request of Mistletoe Lodge No. 269, of Conway Springs, Kansas, the M.-.W.". Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the Masonic Hall at Conway Springs, Kansas, on the 5th day of May, A. D. 1925, A. L. 5925, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new Presbyterian Church in that city. The several stations and places were filled by the following brethren: M.-.W.-. W.-. W.-. W.'.
CHARLES A. LOUCKS LLOYD-BISHOP BENJAMIN F . WEST EDWARD F . ANDERSON
Grand Master. as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden.
Bro. JAMES E . MATHES W.'. HENRY L . GAMES Bro. JOHN F . BUHALTS
as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary. as Grand Chaplain.
W.'. Bro. Bro. Bro.
as as as as
ALVIN A . W I S E LEON HOLLOWELL JOHN FINLEY JOHN A. RIGGS
W.-. ALBERT BOWLING....
W.-. W.'. Bro. R.-.^W.-.
EDWARD L . PEPPER JAMES A. JENKINS ALBERT B . KIRK PERRY E . MILLER
Grand Grand Grand Grand
Senior Junior Senior Junior
Deacon. Deacon. Steward. Steward.
as Grand Marshal.
as Grand as Bearer as Bearer as Grand
Sword Bearer. of Great Lights. of Book of Constitution. Tyler.
The M.'.W.'. Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. The Grand Lodge then formed in Grand Procession and repaired to the site of the new Presbyterian Church, where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity, followed by a very impressive address by Bro. and Rev. HARRISON RAY ANDERSON, Pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Wichita, Kansas. The Grand Lodge then returned to the Masonic Hall where it was closed in Ample Form. CHARLES A. LOUCKS,
Attest:
, HENRY L . GAMES,
as Grand Secretary.
^ Grand Master,
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
37S
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
CANEY, KANSAS, May
15,
1925.
At the request of Caney Lodge No. 324, of Caney, Kansas, t h e M.-. W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the Masonic Hall at Caney, Kansas, on May 15, 1925, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new Christian Church in the city of Caney, Kansas. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: R.'. W.-. CHARLES N . FOWLER
as Grand Master.
W.-. DELBERT BROOKS Bro. CHARLES C . BOWEN W.-. FRANK G . KEISER
as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden.
Bro. JAMES A. KING Bro. HERBERT V. KING Rev. GEORGE P. CLARK
as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary. as Grand Chaplain.
Bro. BERTIE E . MAHON Bro. ARTHUR C . ROPER
as Grand Senior Deacon. as Grand Junior Deacon.
Bro. WALTER C . MEEKER
as Grand Marshal.
W.-. HARRISON R . NOBLE Bro. JOHN W . REYNOLDS
as Grand Senior Steward. as Grand Junior Steward.
W.-. CHARLES S. LINGLE
as Grand Tyler.
The Grand Lodge was opened in Due Form on the first degree of Masonry. The Grand Lodge then marched to the site of the new building where the' corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity. The Grand Lodge then returned to the Masonic Hall, wherejt was closed in Due Form. CHARLES N . FOWLER,
Attest:
as Grand Master. HERBERT V. KING,
as Grand Secretary.
374
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
COTTONWOOD FALLS, KANSAS, May 27,1925.
Upon request of Zeredatha Lodge No. 80, of Cottonwood Falls, Kansas, the M.\ W.". Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and AcceptedMasons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the Masonic Hall at Cottonwood Falls, Kansas, on May 27, 1925, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new Masonic Temple now under course of construction in the city of Cottonwood Falls, Kansas. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: M.-. W.-. CHARLES A. LOUCKS
W.-. MORTON A. HOUGHTON •Bro. ERNEST MCKENZIE R.-. W.-. FERRIS M . HILL Bro. G. FREDERICK SILER Bro. WILLIAM B . PENNY Bro. R. FRANK PORTER
Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro.
ROY K . MAYBELL JOHN MANN, J R . EDWARD D . FORNEY ROBERT B . FREW
W.-. CHARLES A. REMY Bro. OWEN D . JONES
Grand Master.
as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. Grand Junior Warden. as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary. as Grand Chaplain.
as Grand as Grand ...as Grand as Grand
Senior Junior Senior Junior
Deacon. Deacon. Steward. Steward.
as Grand Marshal. . as Grand Tyler.
The Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. The Grand Lodge then repaired to the site of the new Temple, where the corner-stone was laid in the presence of a large number of the brethren and citizens, according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity. An address appropriate to the occasion was delivered by Bro. WALTER W . AUSTIN, as Grand Orator. The Grand Lodge then returned to the Masonic Hall, where it was closed in Ample Form, after which a basket luncheon was held in the Lodge Hall and dining room instead of at the Park as planned; a heavy rain having made the Park arrangements impossible. CHARLES A. LOUCKS,
Attest:
Grand Master. WILLIAM B . PENNY,
as Grand Secretary.
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KAN^SAS.
375.
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
HIAWATHA, KANSAS, May
16,
1925.
A Special Communication of the M.-. W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was held in Hiawatha, Kansas, on the 16th day of July, A. D. 1925, A. L. 5925, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new Court House in Brown County, at Hiawatha, Kansas. The M.'.W.-. Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry in the Hall of Hiawatha Lodge No. 35, with the, following brethren filling the several stations: M.-.W.-. R.-. W.-. Bro. Bro.
CHARLES A. LOUCKS BENJAMIN B . NORRIS as HERBERT C . WASSELL....as KEEVER E . WHARTON....as
W.-. WILLIAM G . KELLEY W.'. FRED R . DOREI
Grand Master. Deputy Grand Master.. Grand Senior Warden.. Grand Junior Warden..
as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary,
Bro. and Rev. ROY N . HILLYER ....as Grand W.-. GEORGE C . McKNiGHT..as Grand Bro. CHARLES SNODGRASS .as Grand Bro. DANIEL PFEIFFER as Grand Bro. HARRY M . PFEIFFER as Grand
Chaplain. Senior Deacon. Junior Deacon. Senior Steward. Junior Steward.
Bro. RALPH H . LOVE
as Grand Marshal.
Bro. T. E. JOHNSON
as Grand Sword Bearer.
Bro. FRANK IDOL.
as Grand Pursuivant.
M.-.W.-. HENRY F . MASON W.-. RAYMOND A. NEVIN
as Grand Orator. as Bearer of Book of Constitution.
Bro. WILLIAM M . WHISTLER..as Grand Tyler.
The M.-.W.-.Grand Lodge then formed in Grand Procession and marched to the site of the new Court House where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies in the presence of many brethren and assembled friends. M.-.W.-.HENRY F . MASON, Grand Orator for the occasion, then spoke to the assembly and delivered an excellent address. M.-.W.-.ELMER F . STRAIN, Past Grand Master, then spoke for a few moments. The M.-.W.-. Grand Lodge then returned to the Masonic Hall, and was closed in Ample Form. CHARLES A. LOUCKS,
Attest:
Grand Master. F R E D R . DOREI,
as Grand Secretary.
376
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
TROY, KANSAS, September 29,
1925.
Upon request of Troy Lodge No. 55, of Troy, Kansas, the M.-. W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the Hall of Troy Lodge No. 55, at Troy, Kansas, on September 29, 1925, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new Masonic Temple, now under course of construction in the city of Troy, Kansas. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: M.".W.-. W.". Bro. Bro. Bro.
HENRY F . MASON WILLIAM A. GARVIN JOHN L . HAGAN CHARLES MARBLE, J R CHARLES V. NORMAN
as Grand Master. as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden. ;...as Grand Treasurer.
Bro. EMIL C . WINZER Bro. SAMUEL TWOMBLY
as Grand Secretary. as Grand Chaplain.
Bro. W.\ Bro. Bro.
as Grand as Grand as Grand as Grand
LOUIS LARSON IRA CHAPPLE CHARLES F . BLEVINS HARRY FOLSCHE
W.'. GLENN I. HACKNEY Bro. WILLIAM N. ANDERSON
Senior Junior Senior Junior
Deacon. Deacon. Steward. Steward.
as Grand Marshal. as Grand Tyler.
The Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. The Grand Lodge then repaired to the street and marched to the site of the new Temple, where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity in the presence of a large number of the Craft, and many citizens of Troy,Kansas, and surrounding cities. An address appropriate to the occasion was delivered by M.". W.". ORESTES MITCHELL, Grand Master of Missouri. The Grand Lodge then returned to the Masonic Hall where it was closed in Ample Form. HENRY F . MASON,
Attest:
as Grand Master. EMIL C . WINZER,
as Grand Secretary.
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
377
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
COTTONWOOD FALLS, KANSAS, October 23, 1925.
At the request of Zeredatha Lodge No. 80, Cottonwood Falls, Kansas, the M.'.W.".Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication on the 23rd day of October, A. D. 1925, A. L. 5925, in the city of Cottonwood Falls, Kansas, for the purpose of dedicating the Masonic Hall in the new Masonic Temple. The several stations and places were filled by the following brethren: M.'.W.-. W.-. W.'. R.'. W.'.
CHARLES A. LOUCKS MORTON A. HOUGHTON HENRY H . GIESE FERRIS M . HILL
Grand Master. as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. Grand Junior Warden.
W.-. J U N E B . SMITH W.-. GEORGE ROBERTSON W.'. CHARLES A. REMY
W.\ W.". W.-. W.'. W.'. W.'.
as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary. as Grand Marshal.
ROY K . MAYBELL JOHN MANN, J R RAY A . HUMISTON GLENN K . WOODRING DUDLEY DOOLITTLE EDWIN M , SCOTT
Bro. HAROLD MILLER
;
Bro. CRAIG DRUMMOND
as Grand as Grand as Grand as Grand as Grand ....as Grand
Senior Deacon. Junior Deacon. Senior Steward. Junior Steward. Orator. Chaplain.
) ^^ g^^^^^^ ^^ ^j^^ ^odge. [
Bro. EDWARD B . REMY
as Bearer of Great Lights.
Bro. OWEN D . JONES
as Grand Tyler.
The M.'.W.'. Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry and the hall was then dedicated in accordance with the Ancient Ceremonies. Brother DUDLEY DOOLITTLE delivered an inspiring and instructive address, following which brief talks were made by M.-.W.". CHARLES A. LoucKS, Grand Master, and R.-.W.'. FERRIS M. HILL, Grand Junior Warden. The Grand Lodge was then closed in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. CHARLES A. LOUCKS,
Attest:
• GEORGE ROBERTSON,
as Grand Secretary.
Grand Master.
378
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
JOHNSON, KANSAS, December 8,
1925.
Upon request of Johnson Lodge No. 441, of Johnson, Kansas, the M.'.W.'.Grand Lodge of Ancient, Fiee and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the Masonic Hall of Johnson Lodge No. 441, at Johnson, Kansas, on December 8, 1925, by M.-.W.-. CHARLES A. LOUCKS, Grand Master, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new Stanton County Court House, at Johnson, Kansas. The several stations and places were filled by the following brethren: M.-.W.-. W.-. Bro. Bro. Bro.
CHARLES A. LOUCKS CLARENCE J. STEWART....as ALFRED L . SMITH as GARRELT C. MlLLSAP....as RAY J. SHETLAR as
Grand Master. Deputy Grand Master. Grand Senior Warden. Grand Junior Warden. Grand Treasurer.
Bro. JAMBS H . BERRY as Grand Secretary. W.-. CHARLES D . HICKOK as Grand Chaplain. Rev. and Bro. ISAAC IRA GORBY. as Grand Orator.
Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro.
VIRGIL C . STEWART EARL E . DEAN JOHN V. COCKRUM'. ARCHIE B . CAVE
W.-. HAERY E . WALTER
Bro. LORREN E . JARVIS W.-. WILLIAM E . PATTON W.-. JAMBS A. CARTER W.-. FRANCIS L . PIERCE: Bro. HERBERT W . STUBBS
as Grand as Grand as Grand as Grand
Senior Junior Senior Junior
Deacon. Deacon. Steward. Steward.
as Grand Marshal.
as Grand Sword Bearer. :.as Bearer of Great Lights. as Bearer of Book of Constitution. Grand Pursuivant. as Grand Tyler.
The M.'.W.'.Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. The Grand Lodge then repaired to the public street, formed in Grand Procession and marched to the site of the new Court House building where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity, in the presence of a large number of the brethren and the public. Rev. and Brother ISAAC IRA GORBY, of Holly, Colorado, acted as Grand Orator, and delivered a very able and instructive address on the theme of Citizenship.
1925-20.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
'
379
A list of historical papers, coins, etc., were deposited in a sealed copper box and placed in the corner-stone by the acting Grand Treasurer, and an enumeration of this list of items read before the audience by the acting Grand Secretary. The M.'.W.". Grand Lodge then returned to the Masonic Hall and was closed in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. CHARLES A. LOUCKS,
Attest:
Grand Master. JAMES H . BERRY,
OS Grand Secretary.
380
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
VALLEY CENTER, KANSAS, December 10, 1925.
At the request of Valley Center Lodge No. 364, of Valley Center, Kansas, the M.\W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the Masonic Hall at Valley Center, Kansas, on December 10, 1925, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the Masonic Temple, in the city of Valley Center, Kansas. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: R.-. W.'. FEKRIS M . H I L L
W.-. EUGENE S. TALCOTT Bro. WILLIAM 0. MAGEE W.'. WALTER S. COOPER...: W.-. GEORGE W . FISHER..,. Bro. WILLIAM WELLER Bro. and Rev. JESSE CLYDE FISHER
as Grand Master.
'.
as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden. as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary. as Grand Chaplain.
W.'. EDGAR L . BELDBN W.'. ADRIA P . WRIGHT
as Grand Senior Deacon. as Grand Junior Deacon.
W.-. GEORGE R . DAVIS
as Grand Marshal.
W.'. JOSEPH A. ADAMSON Bro. ISAAC M . EVANS Bro. CHARLES W . SIMMONS
as Grand Sword Bearer. as Grand Senior Steward. as Grand Junior Steward.
W.'. LOUIS BRIGHT Bro. FRANK VALLANCE
as Grand Pursuivant. as Grand Tyler.
The Grand Lodge was opened in Due Form on the first degree of Masonry. The Grand Lodge then repaired to the public street and marched to the site of the new building, where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity. An address appropriate to the occasion was delivered by M.-.W.'.RICHARD E . BIRD. The Grand Lodge then returned to the Masonic Hall, where it was closed in Due Form. FERRIS M . HILL,
Attest:
as Grand Master. WILLIAM WELLER,
as Grand Secretary.
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
381
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
MONTEZUMA, KANSAS, December 19, 1925.
Upon request of Ensign Lodge No. 413, of Ensign, Kansas, the M.'. W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the School Building a t Montezuma, Kansas, on the 19th day of December, A. D. 1925, A. L. 5925, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new Montezuma Rural High School Building. The several stations and places were filled by the following brethren: M.-.W.". W.\ Bro. Bro.
CHARLES A. LOUCKS...: Grand Master. WILLIAM B . JONES as Deputy Grand Master. WILLIAM G . DAVIS as Grand Senior Warden. BENJAMIN L . YOUNG as Grand Junior Warden.
Bro. ALEX. 0 . HAMILTON Bro. FRED E . PEAT
as Grand Treasurer.. ...as Grand Secretary.
W.-. CHARLEY B . ERSKINE ....as Grand Chaplain. Bro. GLEN J. NUGENT as Grand Senior Deacon. Bro. FRED E . VANCE....: as Grand Junior Deacon. Bro. CLARENCE J. LUND
as Grand Marshal.
Bro. HARRISON E . RALL as Grand Senior Steward. Bro. EWDARD W . THOMPSON..as Grand Junior Steward. Bro. A. R. MANN as Principal Architect. W.'. CARL MILLER
• Bro. JOHN MILLER, J R Bro. JOHN VANG Bro. ALEX. MONTGOMERY
as Grand Orator.
as Bearer of Great Lights. as Bearer of Book of Constitution. as Grand Tyler.
The Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry and marched to the site of the new Rural High School Building where the corner-stone of that building was laid according to the rules of our Ancient Craft, in the presence of sixty-five brethren and a large concourse of citizens. W.-. CARL MILLER, of St. Bernard Lodge No. 222, delivered.a very interesting and instructive address on the subject of "Education and Citizenship". Music was rendered by the Cimarron Band and by St. Bernard Masonic Quartet. The Grand Lodge then returned to the School Building and was closed in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. CHARLES A. LOUCKS,
Attest:
Grand Master. FRED E . PEAT,
as Grand Secretary.
382
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
FORT SCOTT, KANSAS, January 25, 1926.
Upon request of Rising Sun Lodge No. 8, of Fort Scott, Kansas, the M.". W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the Masonic Hall, Fort Scott, Kansas, on January 25, 1926, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new Episcopal Church Building. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: W.'. R E I D DARLING
as Grand Master.
Bro. CLAUDE F . YOUNG Bro. JESSE C . BRIGGS Bro. C. BERT SMITH
as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden.
Bro. JOHN C . HILL W.'. FRED R O Y ALFORD Bro. SUMNER WALTERS
as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary. as Grand Chaplain.
Bro. JEREMIAH S. TURLEY Bro. EDMUND J . LLOYD
as Grand Senior Deacon. as Grand Junior Deacon.
Bro. WILLIAM D . MITCHELL
as Grand Marshal.
W.'. FRANK W . DAVIS W.'. CHARLES E . CORY
as Grand Senior Steward. as Grand Junior Steward.
Bro. GEORGE GAUGELL
as Grand Tyler.
The Grand Lodge was opened in Form on the first degree of Masonry. The Grand Lodge then repaired to the public street and marched to the site of the new building, where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity. The brethren then repaired to the auditorium of the church and listened to an address by Bishop JAMES W I S E of the Episcopal Church. The Grand Lodge then returned to the Masonic Hall where it was closed in Form. R E I D DARLING,
Attest:
as Grand Master. FRED R O Y ALFORD,
as Grand Secretary.
1925-2G.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
383
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
FORT SCOTT, KANSAS, January 25, 1926.
Upon request of Rising Sun Lodge No. 8, of Fort Scott, Kansas, the M.'.W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in that city on the 25th day of January, 1926, for the purpose of dedicating the new Masonic Hall. The several stations and places were filled by the following brethren: W.'. RBID DARLING
Bro. CLAUDE F . YOUNG Bro. JESSE C . BRIGGS Bro. C. BERT SMITH
as Grand Master.
as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden.
,
Bro. JOHN C . HILL W.'. FRED ROY ALFORD W.". MARVIN DARLING
as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary. as Grand Chaplain.
Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro.
as as as as
CHARLES W . WILLIAMS ERNEST F . WILLIAMS JOHN W . PARTON ANDREW J. BAHNEY
Grand Grand Grand Grand
Senior Junior Senior Junior
Deacon. Deacon. Steward. Steward.
Bro. WILLIAM D . MITCHELL
as Grand Marshal.
Bro. EDGAR E . PRYE W.-. WALTER S. H U F F
as Grand Sword Bearer. as Bearer of Great Lights.
Bro. WALTER MOBERG
1
Bro. LESTER H . LOWE
[^^ G^^„^ Taper Bearers.
Bro. ADOLPH B . KONANTZ Bro. NORMAN I. MILLER
J
W.-. SAMUEL O . SPENCER
[ as Bearers of the "Lodge".
Bro. GEORGE GAUGELL
)
Bro. HARRY E . SEELEY Bro. JEREMIAH S. TURLEY
as Grand Pursuivant. as Grand Tyler.
The M.'.W.'. Grand Lodge was opened in Form on the first degree of Masonry in a room apart from the new lodge room. The Grand Lodge repaired in Grand Procession to the lodge room where the Ancient and impressive Ceremonies were performed in the presence of a number of visiting brethren. These ceremonies were then followed by a program presided over by Brother W. F. JACKSON. An address was delivered by. Brother JOHN H . CRIDER. A history of the lodge was given by Brother CLAUDE
384
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
F. YOUNG. Other short addresses were made by brothers present, the whole program being interspersed with a fine musical program. After this the Grand Lodge again repaired in Grand Procession to the place of convening and was closed in Form on the first degree of Masonry. K E I D DARLING,
Attest:
as Grand Master. F R E D R O Y ALFORD,
as Grand Secretary.
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
385
REPORT OF LIBRARIAN.
R.-. W.-. ALBERT K . WILSON, Librarian, presented his annual report as follows, which was referred to the Committee on Reports of Grand Officers: To the M.: W.\ Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: During the past year it has been the pleasure of your Librarian to add a number of very valuable, rare Masonic works to our Library— books which have long since been out of print, and indeed are not available to those who are making collections for private libraries. Before referring to other important additions to our library and museum the rare books are first listed for your information, and are as follows: The Natural History of Staffordshire.
ROBERT PLOT, Oxford,
1686. The New Book of Constitutions. JAMES ANDERSON, 1738.
Long Livers: A Curious History. EUGENIUS PHILALETHES, 1722. The Spirit of Masonry. WILLIAM HUTCHINSON, Third Edition, 1802. The Way to Things by Words, and to Words by Things, etc. Also Two Essays * * * the other on the Real Secret of the Freemasons. London, 1766. The Freemason's Pocket Companion. Edibrugh, Second Edition, 1763. The Freemason's Pocket Companion. London, 1764. Ahiman Rezon. Abridged and Digested. Pennsylvania. 1783. Ahiman Rezon, or Help to a Brother. By LAURENCE DERMOTT, DubUn, Fourth Edition. 1780. The History of the Most Noble Order of the Garter. London. ELIAS ASHMOLE.
1715.
Recueil Precieux de la Maconnerie Adonhiraihite.
Philadelphia,
1787. Des Mysteries D'Isis. P. T. BOULAGE, Paris, 1820. Masonic Miscellanies in Poetry and Prose. STEPHEN JONES, London, 1797. Illustrations of Masonry. A New Edition. 1781. WILUAM PRESTON.
The Freemason's Monitor.
THOMAS SMITH W E B B , Albany, New
York. 1797. The New Freemason's Monitor or Masonic Guide. JAMES HARDIE, First Edition, New York, 1818. The Freemason's Monitor. WEBB. New York, 1802 Edition. The Freemason's Monitor. WEBB. Salem, 1818 Edition. The True Masonic Chart or Hieroglyphic Monitor. Second Edition. JEREMY CROSS; New Haven, 1820.
386
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Les Provinciales, or the Mystery of Jesuitisme. The second edition with large additionals. London, 1658. Diary of Elias Ashmole; 1774 edition. Thoughts in Prison. WILLIAM DODD. London, 1794. From time to time during the year we received the following books and in most instances they came to us complimentary from the Grand Jurisdiction issuing the same, and we take this opportunity of expressing our thanks for these additions to our valuable library: Twenty volumes miscellaneous publications issued by the Masonic Service Association. Templar Masonry—What is it. Grand Commandery of Michigan. The Answer. Grand Commandery of Michigan. The Indian Style of Architecture.
By CHARLES MASON REMEY.
The Universal Consciousness of the Baha'l Religion. Ancient Documents Relating to the A. and A. Scottish Rite. With Annotations by JULIUS F . SACHSE, Librarian, Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. History of Freemasonry in Wyoming. By ALFRED JAMBS MOKLER.
1924. Diamond Jubilee, Grand Lodge of California. 1925. Proceedings Supreme Council, Scottish Rite, Northern Jurisdiction. 1924. Memorial Volume, Seventy-fifth Anniversary, Grand Chapter of Illinois. 1924. Masonry Defined. ALBERT G . MACKBY and other authorities. Report of the Tuberculosis Sanatoria Commission, Grand Lodges of Texas, Arizona and New Mexico. Souvenir Album, Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. Pamphlet by the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania on the occasion of the visit to their jurisdiction of ALBERT ROBBINS, Past Grand Warden, Grand Lodge of England. 1925. The John Smith Home for Boys. Pennsylvania, 1925. Opening Exercises of the Thomas Rankin Patton Masonic Institution for Boys. 1925. Report of the Board of Masonic Relief. Massachusetts. 1924. Volume No. 1, Masonic Home Messenger. Georgia. New Method of Masonic Education. By JOHN J. LANIER. Monitor of Ceremonies and Information. Grand Commandery of Wyoming. Masonic Charity Foundation. Connecticut. 1924. Proceedings Grand Secretaries Guild. 1924. The Comacine Masters. By OSSIAN LANG, New York. Golden Jubilee Dinner, Grand Lodge of Manitoba. 1925. Freemasonry in Utah. Argentine Lodge No. 3. 1925. Freemasonry in Utah. Wasatch Lodge No. 1. 1925.
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
387
Some Persona] Views Concerning Membership in the Masonic International Association. By TOWNSEND SCUDDER, Past Grand Master, New York. Why the Grand Lodge of New York Withdrew from the Masonic . International Ass6ciation. By WILLIAM A. ROWAN, Grand Master, Grand Lodge of New York. Report in Typewritten Form of the Recommendations of the Tuberculosis Sanatoria Commission, Grand Lodges of Texas, Arizona and New Mexico. The Masonic Relief Association. United States and Canada. 1923. Address by Brother ABRAHAM M . BITLER, Grand Master, Pennsylvania. 1923. Reprint of Proceedings of the Grand Council of R. & S. M. of Tennessee. 1847-1865. Annals of Masonic Home. Pennsylvania. 1923. Masonic Bulletins issued by the Masonic Service Association. Freemasonry in Manitoba. 1864-1925. Two beautifully arranged scrap books concerning the Triennial Conclave of the Grand Encampment held in Seattle, Washington, 1925. Arranged and presented by Brother HARRY M . WASHBURN, member of Topeka Commandery No. 5. Four large volumes, comprising the Holy Bible, printed in German in the year 1731. These books contain hundreds of magnificent engravings which in point of workmanship and art cannot be equalled today. This series of books was the property of our late Brother, Doctor CHARLES HBDINGER, a member of Canton Lodge No. 197, Canton, Kansas. Prior to his death Brother HEDINGER requested that these books be deposited with the Grand Lodge, as they would there receive proper care and be preserved for future generations. To appreciate this magnificent gift one must see the books. Your Librarian has endeavored to secure complete information concerning the life of Brother HEDINGER, but up to the present time has only been able to obtain the following: He was born on a boat in Vienna, Italy, in 1841, his father being a sea faring man, and a German by birth. His mother was an Italian. Brother HEDINGER was educated in Germany and was a participant in the Student Rebellion, after which he was compelled to flee from the country. Coming to America he became a physician in the United States Army and is said to have been the last survivor of the Seminole War. He served through the Civil War and in the Regular Army, stationed in Kansas after the war closed. He was captured by the Indians, who were in the act of burning him at the stake when he was rescued by the United States Cavalry. It is said that at the time of his death he was the only survivor of the Green River Expedition. He practiced medicine in Wamego, Kansas, later in Chase County, and more than thirty years ago located in Canton, where he practiced
388
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
medicine until two o'clock of the day of his death, which occurred December 13, 1918. At the time he passed away he was a member of Canton Lodge No. 197, McPherson Chapter No. 48, Royal Arch Masons, and Garfield Commandery No. 18, of McPherson.
Many of the members of this Grand Lodge are more or less familiar with the National Geographic Magazine, which is now issuing its forty-ninth volume. This magazine stands alone as the highest type of a descriptive and artistic publication, covering items of interest and pictures not only of the civilized but the most remote parts of the earth. It is embellished with the highest class of pictures which are both interesting and instructive. The descriptions of places and conditions of life are so realistic that even those who are not permitted to travel can secure, through this channel, a comparatively thorough knowledge of things, not only as they now are, but the physical and natural conditions which existed several thousand years ago. It is also complete in every detail as to the various inhabitants on land and sea, describing their mode of living, habits, religions and other characteristics. While this magazine is not Masonic, yet it is indirectly associated with the history of Freemasonry, covering, through description and pictures, many of the ancient structures which were erected during the early history of the Guilds, which subsequently became operative Masonic organizations and eventually Symbolic Masonry. The only complete set of this work so far as your Librarian has been able to ascertain, is now owned by the National Geographic Society, publishers of the National Geographic Magazine, and in consideration of these books being placed in our Grand Lodge Library they have made a special price on the complete set, bound in half Morocco for $2,000.00. While this may seem extravagant, yet when we consider that during the past twenty-five years our Grand Lodge has spent only about $400.00 for books, and prior to that time it is very doubtful whether any of the funds of the Grand Lodge were ever used in purchasing books or publications of any kind, and the further fact that this is the only complete set of this work obtainable, your Librarian considers that the price quoted is indeed very reasonable and would recommend that the proposition be accepted. It must be borne in mind that of the thousands of books and Masonic publications in the library they have been donated to the Grand Lodge or furnished in exchange for our Proceedings. MUSEUM DEPARTMENT.
In the museum department of our library we have added a great many articles, most of which are rare and with advancing years become more and more important to the Craft. The listing of such articles is
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
•
389
deferred until such time as we will issue a complete catalog of the library and museum. In conclusion your Librarian would again call attention to the importance of employing an expert Librarian who will possess the necessary qualifications to take entire charge of the work of indexing all books, periodicals, magazines, addresses, orations and other publications which have been added since the work of indexing ceased about twenty years ago. Our accumulation of Masonic literature and material for the museum is increasing to such an extent that it furnishes steady employment for an indefinite time for a Librarian. It is to be regretted that up to the present time your Librarian has been unable to secure the services of some one competent to take up this important work; however, it is hoped that the present year may see this work go forward to an extent whereby the Craft generalUy throughout the jurisdiction may profit by means of a circulating Masonic library. Fraternally"submitted, A L B E R T J K . WILSON,
Librarian.
390
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE '
February.
REPORT OF COUNCIL OF ADMINISTRATION. R.-.W.-. F E R R I S M . H I L L , S e c r e t a r y of t h e Council of
A d m i n i s t r a t i o n , submitted t h e following report, which, on motion of R.-.W.-. J O H N W. N E I L S O N , was a d o p t e d : WICHITA, KANSAS, February 26, 1925.
The meeting of the Council of Administration of the M .•. W.'. Grand Lodge of A. F . & A. M. of Kansas was held at the close of the Grand Lodge. All members present. M.-.W.-. R.-. W.-. R.'. W.-. R.\ W.-.
CHARLES A. LOUCKS, Grand Master. JOHN W . NEILSON, Deputy Grand Master. CHARLES N . FOWLER, Grand Senior Warden. F E R R I S M . HILL, Grand Junior Warden. ORGANIZATION.
CHARLES A. LOUCKS, elected President. FERRIS M . HILL, elected Secretary. M.-.W.-. WILLIAM EASTON HUTCHISON was elected as a member of
the Masonic Home Board to succeed himself for a term of four years. BUSINESS.
The Masonic Home Board was authorized to dispense Masonic charity in the same manner as heretofore for the ensuing year. Moved and carried that the sum of $150.00 be paid W.-. Brother ROBERT P. MCCOLLOCH for his services in preparing the Special
Address for 1925. Moved and carried that the Grand Secretary be authorized to draw a warrant on the Charity Fund for the $10,000.00 donated to the Endowment Fund of the Masonic Home, by the Grand Lodge. The Council approved the action making Crane & Company, of Topeka, the official printers of all record books and blank forms. N O further business appearing the Council adjourned. NOVEMBER 12, 1925. The erection of a monument to Captain SMITH and Major VANDER-
SLICE in the cemetery a t Highland was approved by the four members of the Council and the work ordered done. F E R R I S M . HILL,
Secretary.
1925-26,
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
391
REPORT OP P R E S I D E N T MASONIC HOME BOARD.
M.-.W.-. CHARLES A. LOUCKS, President, submitted the following report, which, on motion of R.". W/. CHARLES N. FOWLER, was adopted: To the M:. W:. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: Pursuant to the By-Laws of The Kansas Masonic Home, I herew t h present my report as President of that corporation. As there seems to be a misunderstanding or a lack of knowledge on the part of some of the brethren as to the nature of this organization, reference is made to the Annual Proceedings of this Grand Lodge for the year 1904 for a complete history thereof. But may I say. The Kansas Masonic Home is a civil corporation, organized and existing: under and by virtue of the laws of the State of Kansas relating tO' charitable corporations? It is governed by a Board of Directors consisting of nine members, eight of whom shall be Master Masons, andione a member of the Order of the Eastern Star. The Board is chosen as follows: Four thereof shall be members of the Council of Adminisstration of this Most Worshipful Grand Lodge; four thereof shall beelected by said Council of Administration, and one thereof by the Grand Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star of the State of Kansas. So while the Home is in fact a civil corporation, it will also be seen that it is under the absolute control of this Most Worshipful Grand Lodge. I shall not attempt to make a detailed account of the financial transactions. For such information, you are referred to the report of the Secretary. It will be observed, however, that the income from all sources for the year ending December 31, 1925, was $156,471.64. Of this amount $47,841.24 was credited to the Endowment Fund, making that fund on January 1, 1926, $231,906.96. The regular income, consisting of Grand Lodge per capita tax, Order of the Eastern Star per capita tax, and interest, amounted to $59,708.21. Our expenses for maintenance, including funeral and cemetery expenses, and taxes, was $52,939.99. It will be seen, that the Board has been able to keep the expenses well within the normal income for the year, and that the per capita cost per member was $26.50 less than last year. Our investments in mortgages and bonds amount to $227,950.00. Interest collected during the year amounted to $13,951.26. The average rate was about six and one-half per cent. In the Secretary's report attention is called to the item of $2,099.38 charged to the McAlister Land Account. The explanation of this item is found in the matter of the McAlister will, further reference to which may be of interest: Brother FRANK P. MCALISTEK, late a resident of Lakin, Kansas, and a member of our Emerald Lodge No. 289, died March 17,1924, leav-
392
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
ing a will by which he bequeathed to The Kansas Masonic Home the bulk of his estate, which consisted of about 5,200 acres of land in. Kearny County, Kansas, and personal property. After providing certain gifts aggregating some $4,000.00 to one or more churches and cemetery associations, and an annuity of $50.00 per month to his sister, Mrs. ANNA FESLER, for her life time, the remainder of the estate was given to the Home. The will was probated in Kearny County, Kansas, in due time, and shortly afterwards, Mrs. ANNA FESLER, the sister, and sole heir at law, brought suit in the District Court of Kearny County, Kansas, to set aside the will. This action came on for trial in June, 1925, the interests of the Home being represented by Brothers WILLIAM EASTON HUTCHISON and ELRICK C . COLE.
The suit was compromised before
trial, and by the terms of the settlement a decree was entered upholding the will in all particulars, The Kansas Masonic Home undertaking on its part to pay Mrs. FESLER the sum of $1,250.00 by way of defraying her litigation and personal expenses, and the further sum of $50.00 per month during her lifetime. These payments have been made in accordance with the agreement of settlement, and this with our expenses, in connection with the suit, constitute the charge item in the Secretary's report before referred to. The Board of Directors had all confidence in the validity of the will, but were moved to make the settlement out of consideration and good will toward Mrs. FESLER. She was found upon investigation to be a worthy woman, residing in Daleville, Indiana, and then about seventy-four years of age, and in very moderate circumstances. By the terms of a former will, her brother had bequeathed her an annuity for her lifetime of $100.00 per month, and it was found by the Board that an allowance of this sum would add materially to her well-being in her declining years, and it was deemed to be in accordance with Masonic principles to yield some further compensation to Mrs. FESLER from the residuary estate. A fuither benefit derived from the settlement is this, that the expense of prolonged litigation has been saved and the title of the Home to the estate has been fully confirmed and set at rest. The estate is at this time being administered by Brother H. E. HEDGE, of Lakin, executor and trustee under the will, and in a report handed to me by Brother HEDGE, dated January 21, 1926, it is stated t h a t all legacies have been paid except the annuity, cf $50.00 per rhonth to Mrs. FESLER, and monthly payments on this have been made to date. The real estate is intact, is clear of inc{imbrance, and is leased at an annual rental of $2,000.00 per annum. The land is for the most part grazing land. However, several hundred acres are suitable for farming. It is used as a cattle ranch. The report indicates that there is something like $8,000.00 in personal estate on hand, consisting largely of money on deposit. I t would appear that the income from the estate would soon inure t o the benefit of the Home, and that the time is not far distant when the Home may come into the full possession of the principal.
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
393'
The incident of the MCAHSTER will brings up for mention the general subject of bequests. Brother MCALISTER at the time of his death had neither wife nor children, and no relatives having especial claim to his bounty. He knew of our Home and something of the work it was doing, and he had determined a number of years before his death to give to the Home the bulk of his estate. There are without doubt many well-to-do Masons without families or near relatives who would like to leave some portion of their estates to the use of the Home, and doubtless many others who would be moved to do so if they had a more intimate knowledge of the Home and of the commendable progress it has made and is making in its high mission. I commend the subject to the favorable consideration of Masons having means to bestow in the interests of charity, and submit the foliowing as a suitable form of bequest: " I give, devise and bequeath to The Kansas Masonic Home at Wichita, Kansas, the sum of Dollars To have, to hold, use, invest, enjoy and dispose of as may seem best to the Board of Directors of said The Kansas Masonic Home." (Or " T o be placed in the Endowment Fund of said institution and to be invested and reinvested for the benefit of said Endowment Fund by the Board of Directors of said The Kansas Masonic Home. The proceeds, thereof, to be used for the benefit of the Home but the principal to be kept as a part of said Endowment Fund and never to be expended by the Home or by the Directors thereof.") (If it be real estate that is to be donated, the description of the land or town lots with all the improvements thereon should be described in the paragraph. Of it if be bonds or other securities they might be described in lieu of the money in the same paragraph. The will including such a clause or paragraph as this or these should be witnessedby at least two witnesses, neither of whom are members of any branch of the Masonic Fraternity.) The report of the Committee on Finance shows the same balances as are exhibited in the reports of the Secretary and Treasurer, and is as follows: Your Committee on Finance have carefully checked vouchers and abstracts of account of the Secretary and find books accurate, neat and correct. We have examined all loans and bonds, also insurance policies. The books of the Secretary show as follows: Balance January 1, 1925 $ 15,761 65 Receipts 156,471. 64 $172,233 29 Disbursements 159,924 36 $ 12,308 93 Error, April, 1924 10 Ck. Paid by Treas.—Listed $12,309 03 Sec'y., 1926...: 50 00 $ 12,259 03
394
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
We have also examined the books and cancelled checks of Treasurer and moneys properly account for. TREASURER.
Balance January 1, 1925 Receipts
$ 15,926 156,350 $172,277 156,271 $ 16,005 3,867 • $ 12,138 121 $ 12,259
Disbursements—Checks paid Outstanding checks Sec'y- Remittance listed January, 1926
75 64 39 78 61 58 03 00 03
EMMA M . VIETS, JOHN W . NEILSON, F E R R I S M . HILL. MEMBERSHIP.
Membership, January 1, 1925 Admitted during year Restored Deaths during year Dischared during year Membersonroll, Dec.31, 1925 Absent Admitted, not entered Members present, Dec. 31, 1925....
Men. 59 20 79 13 66 1 65 3 62 6 65
Women. Boys. Girls. Total. 39 52 59 209 8 1 0 - 6 44 .... 4 .... 4 47 66 65 257 4 1 .... 18 43 65 65 239 1 19 10 31 42 46 _ 55 208 3 .... 2 8 89 46 53 200 3 1 .... 10 36 45 53 190
I t will be observed that our membership at the close of the year was one less than at the beginning. However, since the close of the year several applications have been received and approved, and the number of members has been considerably increased. The average age of the old people who died during the year is eighty years. The average age of the boys discharged is sixteen years; that of the girls twenty years. The difference will be accounted for largely by the fact that some of our younger boys were discharged at the request of their mothers or other relatives who expected to be able to properly care for them. In two cases their expectations failed, and, therefore,. four of the boys thus discharged were returned to the Home.
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
395
It is worthy of consideration that of the number who in the past few years have attained suitable age, and having finished high school or made satisfactory progress in their school work and have been discharged from the Home, one is teaching in the State Teachers College in Emporia at a salary of $1,600.00 per year. One was graduated from a nurse's training school and is now married. Oiie was graduated from the Domestic Science Department at Pittsburg, and after having taught very successfully for two years, is now married. One is teaching commercial branches in the High School at Beloit at $1,550.00 per year. Others are working in offices or filling important positions here and there and are reported as doing well. It may be that many of those who are naturally looked upon as being more or less particularly interested in The Kansas Masonic Home have a rather vague and indefinite idea of the scope and nature of its ministry. There may be some who take it for granted that when people are admitted there consequently their every need is to be well provided for, that they are to receive every possible care and consideration, and that all of this is to be accomplished without any problem, friction or confusion. Intimate contact with the management of the Home will reveal, as is shown in the report of the House Committee for the past year, that problems do arise. If every member of our Fraternity could realize that this is a fact, and that some of the problems are serious and puzzling, it would bring about such a spirit of sympathetic cooperation as would assist materially in promoting the general welfare of the Home. While it would be out of place to go into a detailed account of these matters here, we may indicate that perplexing problems arise in dealing with the old people who are members of the Home. Usually due to age and infirmity, necessary rules and regulations seem irksome, and misunderstandings and dissatisfactions arise. Members of the Home and the Lodge or Chapter that recommended them for memship sometimes forget the terms of the agreement under which they were admitted. In view of this situation, the Board of Directors at the Annual Meeting in January, last, adopted a-recommendation made by the House Committee that in addition to the requirements that had heretofore obtained, adult members be required to sign papers in duplicate showing the obligation of their Lodge or Chapter, so that these bodies, having been furnished with a copy of the contract, may not plead ignorance of its terms and conditions nor of their obligations in respect thereto. Perhaps it is needless to say that puzzling questions of discipline arise in connection with the young people. These problems are such as arise in any average home in our land, but the larger number of children and young people in our Home multiplies the number of problems. It taxes the resources of the management to find suitable employment for the boys who are old enough to do some work. It is realized that the right sort of employment- will not only furnish wholesome and needed
396
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
exercise, but it will give the boys a training that will stand them in good stead in later years. Gardening furnishes one of the best means we have of meeting this need. We have been somewhat handicapped for want of irrigation facilities. The success that has been realized in this enterprise, as shown by the Superintendent's report and emphasized by the House Committee, encourages us to hope that suitable irrigation facilities may be provided, and that we may be able to extend our gardening operations. Another matter that has occasioned much thought is that of purchasing the necessary supplies for the Home. A studied effort is now being made in the hope of solving this problem". All of these problems, of course, must be dealt with as they arise, and we are happy to say that the management for the past year has met these problems, and if they have not always solved them to the satisfaction of all concerned, they have dealt with them in such a way as we feel will meet with the hearty approval of the Fraternity at large. There remains one other matter to be mentioned in this connection which causes us much concern. That is, the present incapacity of the Home to provide for the college training of our young people who are fitted to receive such training and who desire it. Would it not be a worthy and commendable undertaking if a number of our brethren would contribute from $500.00 to $1,000.00 each to a loan fund which could be used to provide college education for our young people? There are many and varied elements of human interest found in the atmosphere of our Home. Especially attractive is the buoyancy of the young life; and an effort is made to meet the need of both young and old in the matter of recreation and pleasure. We are especially fortunate in having the sympathetic cooperation of the Masonic Bodies and the Order of the Eastern Star in Wichita, as well as that of many other organizations and individuals. A record of events shows that picnics and outings of various kinds, circuses, shows and entertainments have been enjoyed by both young and old. To our friends who contributed to these pleasures or in any way made them possible we are deeply grateful. Our library, which within the past year has been increased to over thirteen hundred volumes, furnishes choice reading matter. It is now properly catalogued and well arranged, and should claim some attention from every visitor to the Home. Daily Chapel exercises at the Home together with Sunday School and Church Services in the city have ministered to the spiritual needs of our children and those of our old people who were able to attend. Although there have been instances of sickness and death, sorrow and sadness, the Matron reports the members. of the Home generally healthy and happy. This is especially true of the children. As has been noted by all who have visited the Home from time to time, there has been a steady improvement in the plant and grounds. We are pleased to note that, as the Superintendent shows in his report, this past year has been the best in the history of the Home thus far.
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
397
In the maintenance of the Home,-the women of the Order of the Eastern Star have nobly and faithfully shared our burden of responsibility. Not only in the matter of financial and material assistance, but in every way they could they have contributed to the successful operation of the Home. For this we are deeply grateful. In conclusion, I wish to make mention of the cooperation and faithful and efficient service of the employees of the Home. Some of these people have been in the service of the Home for several years. I desire also to express my appreciation of the services of the Superintendent and Matron, who deserve great credit for maintaining high standards of living and noble ideals and purposes in the Home. It is a privilege to be associated in a worthy enterprise with such people as compose the membership of the Board of Directors of our Kansas Masonic Home, and I am grateful for having had the privilege of serving as a member of that body. To those with whom I have been associated in this work I desire to express my thanks and my appreciation for their cooperation. The one regret that I have is that I have not been in a position to give to the work the time and attention that an enterprise of the- magnitude and importance of our'^Home demands and has a right to expect from its chief officer. Fraternally][^submitted, CHARLES A. LOXJCKS,
President.
398
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
R E P O R T OF SECRETARY OF MASONIC HOME.
M.-. W.-. THOMAS G . FITCH, submitted the following report, which, on his motion, was received and ordered printed in the Proceedings: To theM.: W.-.Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: I have the honor to present herewith excerpts from my report t a the Board of Directors of the Kansas Masonic Home at its annual meeting on January 22,1926: To the Board of Directors of the Kansas Masonic Home: Within the year ended December 31, 1925,1 received in cash items $156,471.64 from the following sources: Raising Fees Endowment $20,475 00 Endowment Donations 27,253 74 $ 47,728 74 Grand Lodge Relief, 1924 Grand Lodge Relief, 1925
$ 2,001 50 3,560 00
Mortgage Loans, Paid Mary A. Hepler Music Fund Refund Maintenance Account Clothing, etc O. E. S. Christmas Fund $ 1,427 86 O. E. S. Fruit Fund 1,444 35 0 . E. S. Furnishing Fund 350 00 Morse Land Acct. (Rent 1924—part 1925) Nels Nelson Land Acct. (Rent 1925) Sallie A. Payne Land Acct. (Rent 1925) Lobdell, Stuart, Interest (Library Fund). Guardian Funds Miscellaneous Receipts
5,561 50 36,500 00 40 00 35 08 3,222 21 708 124 180 34 1,271 1,357
.'.
37 65 00 00 84 04
Regular Income. Grand Lodge Per Capita Eastern Star Per Capita..; Interest Loans Interest Balances
$13,95126 873 00
$39,020 50 5,863 45 14,824 26
59,708 21 $156,471 64
All of which has been remitted to the Treasurer of the Home as per carbon copies of letters of transmittal herewith and as shown by receipts from him. For your information and in order that permanent record may be made Endowment Donations item is composed of the following: From Organizations. Raising Fees for 1924 $ 20,476 00M.-.W.-. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M., of Kansas 10,000 00 M.-.E.-. Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Kansas.... 10,000 00 M.'.111.'.Grand Council of Royal and Select Masters of Kansas 1,500 00
1925-26.
'
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
399
Grand Commandery Knights Templar of Kansas Christ•mas, 1924; Order Eastern Star of Kansas Army Bodies A. & A. S. R., Fort Leavenworth Jefferson Lodge No. 84, Winchester, Contribution Virginia Lodge No. 315, Savonburg, Penalty Advance Lodge No. 114, Florence, Penalty A. K. Wilson, Gr. Sec'y Certifying Life Memberships
694 77 1,854 72
50 8 30 20 75
From Estates by Bequest. Anna R. Johnson, Deceased, Belleville, Kansas i William Mclnteer, Deceased, Minneola, Kansas,... John Campbell, Deceased, Pittsburg, Kansas Nathan Schloss, Deceased, Kansas City, Mo., Bal. Estate Estate Lovinda Moore, Deceased, Member at Home, Bal. Estate
Estate Estate Estate Estate
651 06 1,000 00
500 00 200 00 50 19
From Members and Friends. Mrs. Louise H. Haskell, Member Home Family $ Howard S. Lathrop, Marysville, Kansas E. H. Alesdorf, Siloam Lodge No. 225, Topeka Roy Crawford, Topeka Consistory, A. & A. S. R., Topeka.. B. C. N. Stott, Burrton Lodge No. 182, Burrton, Kansas... Chas. Edwin Smith, Member Wichita Consistory, A. & A. S. R Add Estate W. K. Martin, Deceased Member Home Family—Transferred to Endowment
00 00 00 00 00
500 2 1 100 12
00 00 00 00 00
5 00
$ 47,728 74 112 50
Making Total Receipts for the Year On January 1, 1925, the Endowment Fund was.
$ 47,841 24 184,065 72
On January 1, 1926, the Endowment Fund was
$231,906 96
Within the year warrants were drawn in the sum of $159,924.36, which were charged to the following accounts: Mortage Loans made $ 92,400 00 Accrued Interest on same 1,623 19 $ 94,023 19 Grand Lodge Relief Morse Land Account Payne Land Account Nelson Land Account Leighty Land Account McAllister Land Account Guardian Funds Real Estate and Improvements... Insurance Funerals and Cemeteries Furniture and Fixtures O. E. S. Christmas—Fruit Maintenance Miscellaneous Total
3,560 214 87 76 270 •'..... 2,099 1,332 1,370 5 864 1,194 2,756 52,069 1
00 36 55 18 07 38 04 75 71 25 16 21 03 50
$159,924 36
400
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
The charge to Real Estate and Improvements is for the balance due C. A. Baker on his plumbing contract paid in February, 1925. In the Furniture and Fixture Account will be found $1,000.00 for purchase of an automobile for the Home. Included in the item of Maintenance, which is about $1,250.00 less than for the year 1924, will be found expense items as follows: Secretary's Office $ 625-00 Director's Expense 309 25 Home Physician 800 00 Bonus Mr. & Mrs. Snell 300 00 Bonus Anna Cowles ; 60 00 Treasurer's and Secretary's Bonds 87 50 Safety Deposit Box Rent 35 00 Inspector of Heating 50 00 Total
$2,266 75
In the items of expenditure the McAllister Land Account is the only new one. This represents the amount of our advancements to protect the interest of The Kansas Masonic Home by reason of the bequest of Brother Frank P. McAllister, deceased. This particular case has engaged the personal interest and attention of Directors LouCKS and HUTCHISON. A full record of the case will be found in the files of the Secretary and on the acount books of the Home. You will observe that the item of maintenance for the year 1925 was $52,069.03 or $1,251.90 less than for the year 1924. Summary of accounts for the year follows: January 1, 1925—Balance in Treasury Receipts for 1925 Total December 31, 1925—Paid in Warrants in year January
1, 1926—Balance in Treasury Total
Total balance of Home Accounts follows: Debit Balances. Treasurer Mortgage Loans Morse Land Account Leighty Land Account Beck Land Account McAllister Land Account Payne Land Account Real Estate and Improvements Furniture and Fixtures Maintenance Funerals and Cemetery Insurance Miscellaneous Expense
$ 15,761 65 • 156,471 64 -.
$ 172,238 29 $ 159,924 36 12,308 93 $172,233 29
$ 12,308 227,950 1,994 359 7 2,099 1,343 500,054 38,449 588,257 9,509 9,217 574
93 00 48 21 25 38 01 92 94 00 98 81 86
$1,392,126 77
1925-26.
GBAND
LODGE OF KANSAS.
401
Credit Balances. Interest O. E. S. Per Capita Endowment K. M. H. Special Fund Knights Templar Building Fund Nelson Land Account Mary A. Hepler Music Fund Grand Lodge Per Capita Grand Lodge Donations Building Fund 0 . E. S Building Fund Lodges Furnishing Fund O. E. S: Morris Educational Fund Lobdell-Stuart Library Fund Guardian Fund Miscellaneous Receipts
$117,956 11 73,448 15 231,906 96 116 00 50 00 49 31 1,045 00 532,056 80 59,666 41 35,000 00 329,651 01 5,712 56 100 00 1,068 94 1,575 65 2,723 87 $1,392,126 77 The above accounts date from the inception of the Home. The total of $227,950.00 is invested in First Mortgage Farm Loans and Bonds. A summary of the Loan Account is as follows: Loans on Hand, January 1, 1925 $172,050 00 Loans Paid in 1925 36,500 00 $135,550 00 Loans made in 1925 92,400 00 Loans on hand, January 1, 1926 ., $227,950 00 Of this amount $ 2,000 .00 draws interest at 4 %. 1,300 00 draws interest at 4 } ^ % . 14,650 00 draws interest at 5 J^%. 123,000 00 draws interest at 6 %. 36,200 00 draws interest at 6]4%. 48,300 00 draws interest at 7 %. 2,500 00 draws interest at 7}4%. $227,950 00 In the year we collected $13,951.26 in interest on loans or an approximate average of 6J4%Financial statement, January 1, 1925: Cash on hand Mortgage Loans Morse Land Account Wm. Leighty C. M. Beck Sallie A. Payne Ion Estate Bokey Estate Comer Property Jacob W. Boltz Mayeth
'.
$ 15,761 65 172,050 00 $2,488 59 7 1,435 432 1,100 39 100 51
49 14 • 25 46 34 19 96 85 00
5,744 68 $193,556 33
402
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Liabilities. Endowment Fund Hepler Music Fund Morris Educational Fund Lobdell-Stuart Library Fund Guardian Funds Balance General Fund
$184,065 1,005 100 1,034 3,367 3,983
72 00 00 94 60 07
$ 193,556 33 Financial Statement, January 1,, 1926: Assets, Cash on hand Mortage Loans Morse Land Account Leighty Land Account Beck Land Account Payne Land Account McAllister Land Account Bokey Estate Comer Property Ion Estate Boltz Estate Leota Magill McDonald Estate
$ 12,308 93 227,950 00 $1,994 359 7 1,343 2,099 1,162 39 416 141 51 37
48 21 25 01 38 09 96 61 05 09 50
7,651 53 $247,909 46
Liabilities. Endowment Fund Hepler Music Fund Morris Educational Fund Lobdell-Stuart Library Fund Guardian Fund K. M. H. Special Fund Balance General Fund
$231,906 1,045 100 1,068 3,423 116 10,248
Balance, to credit of General Fund, Jan. 1, 1925, was Balance to credit of General Fund, Jan. 1, 1926, was
$247,909 46 3,983 07 10,248 66
Showing a gain of
$
96 00 00 94 90 00 66
6,265 59
Annual cost of Maintenance at the Home since 1917 follows: 1918 1919 1920 1921
$24,676 36,447 40,913 39,782
75 61 71 65
1922 1923 1924 1925
$42,770 46,148 53,320 52,069
27 49 93 03
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
403
By months for years ended November 30, 1924 and 1925 warrants charged to Maintenance Account were as follows: December January February March April May June July August September October November
1924. $ 4,591 51 5,318 51 4,257 51 4,659 13 3,848 72 3,074 56 3,609 05 3,186 50 4,006 98 4,050 26 5,415 84 5,210 08
1925. $ 4,749'94 6,300 95 5,035 83 4,183 63 4,135 47 3,592 13 3,374 45 2,777 61 3,034 66 3,843 41 4,835 54 3,938 66
General Expenses
$51,228 65 2,092 28
$49,802 28 2,266 75
Total
..$53,320 93
$52,069 03
Superintendent's report shows average membership of the Home Family since 1917 as follows: 1918........ 94 1919........100
1920........1131^ 1921.......128
1922.......154 1923........161
1924........174 1925.......186
At present of the 208 names on the roster of the Home 190 are actually in the Home. Per Capita cost based on above averages shows as follows: 1918....$262 50 1919.... 364 47
1920....$360 47 1921.... 310 80
1922....$277 78 1923.... 286 64
1924....$306 44 1925.... 279 94
This includes all expense items of the Home and of Administration, in fact all items save those charged to Real Estate, Furniture and Fixtures and Funerals and Cemetery. It will be observed that the average membership in the Home was increased from 174 in 1924 to 186 in 1925 and that the Per Capita cost per member was reduced from $306.44 in 1924 to $279.94 in 1925. The records shows our regular income for 1925 to have been $59,708.21, and our expenses for actual Maintenance to have been $52,069.03. If to the item of Maintenance we should add the Funeral and Cemetery item of $864.25 and Insurance of $5.71 we would have a total of $52,939.99, leaving us a net balance for the year, $6,769.22. This is the first time in a number of years we have had any such credit. However, this would have been impossible had it not been for our interest collections. Also a part of our income for the year consisted of the proceeds from the sale of cows in August from which we realized $939.39 and the sale of the old sectional boiler in December from which we realized $250.00.
404
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Our income for the year 1926 may be estimated as follows: Grand Lodge Per Capita $40,000 O. E. S. Per Capita 6,000 Interest on Loans 14,000 Interest on Balances 1,000 Total
00 00 00 00
$61,000 00
Expenses for the year 1926 probably will not be a great deal more than for the year 1925. Material saving may be made on account of the use of gas as fuel. Expenditures made on behalf of the M.'. W.'. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M., of Kansas for the year ending November 30, 1925, was $3,560.00 which amount has been repaid to us by the Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge as heretofore shown. We have insurance in force as follows: FIRE.
Main Buildings. National Liberty Ins. Co. of N. A Philadelphia Milwaukee American Central American Central
Expires. 6-15-29 6-15-29 11-25-29 6-24-29 6-24-29 11-28-29
Amount $5,000 00 5,000 00 5,000 00 5,000 00 5,000 00 2,500 00
$27,500 00
Chapel. American Central
1-9-30
$5,000 00
$ 5,000 00
Barn and Contents. j^ational Liberty
:. 6-20-29
$7,000 00
$ 7,000 00
Total Fire on Buildings
$39,500 00
Furniture—Main Buildings. American Central 7-26-27 Central States 7-26-27 Home 7-26-27 American Central 6-24-29
$ 500 500 1,000 4,000
00 00 00 00
$ 6,000 00
Furniture—Isolation Cottage. Phoenix 6-26-29
$1,000 00
$ 1,000 00
Fixtures—Laundry. Aetna
$1,000 00
$ 1,000 00
6-24-26
Total Fire Boiler and Accident. Hartford Steam'Boiler Co. 9-1-26
$ 8,000 00 $47,500 00
$15,000 00
$15,000 00
1025-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
405
TORNADO.
Buildings. Expires. Amount. Rhode Island 2-18-29 $10,000 00 Camden Fire 2-18-29 10,000 00 National Liberty 2-18-29 30,000 00 American Central 2-12-29 10,000 00 Aetna 2-18-29 25,000 00 American Central 2-18-29 10,000 00 Hartford 2-18-29 10,000 00 Phoenix 2-18-29 15,000 00 Ins. Co. of N. A 2-18-29 15,000 00 Central States 2-18-29 10,000 00 American Insurance.. 2-18-29 10,000 00 National 2-18-29 10,000 00 Niagara 2-18-29 15,000 00 New Hampshire 2-18-29 15,000 00 Niagara 2-18-29 15,000 00 Star 2-18-29 15,000 00 Philadelphia 2-18-29 10,000 00 Eagle Star 2-18-29 10,000 00 Home Fire & M 2-18-29 20,000 00 London Assurance.... 2-18-29 20,000 00 Marquette Nat.-. 2-18-29 10,000 00 Commercial Union.... 2-18-29 20,000 00 Providence Wash 2-18-29 - 10,000 00 Firemen's Ins 2-18-29 10,000 00 Total
$335,000 00
Above covers tornado insurance on all the buildings on the Home grounds, and is written upon the basis of 90% co-insurance. Completed papers in all mortgage loans including insurance policies, duplicate of receipts for all monies received and letters of transmittal of same together with all books of account of the Secretary, duly balanced are herewith presented with this report. Fraternally submitted, THOMAS G . FITCH,
Secretary.
406
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON REPORTS OF GRAND OFFICERS. M.-. W.-. B E N S . P A U L E N ,
chairman,
presented
the
following report, which, on his motion, was adopted: To the M:. W:. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: As required by the laws of the Grand Lodge the address of the Grand Master and the reports of other Grand Officers have been submitted t o your Committee for distribution of the various subjects to the appropriate Standing Committees. The address of the Grand Master indicates that he was in close touch with the affairs of the lodges during the past year and devoted much time in an endeavor to advance the interests of the Craft throughout the jurisdiction. We recommend to the careful consideration of the Craft the instructive words contained in the preface to his address. Among the various topics we find the following which need no reference to a committee, as they come within the province of the Grand Master, or are sanctioned by our laws or authorized by the direct action of the Grand Lodge: Grand Orator. Lecturers. Special Committee. Standards. ' Special Address. Grand Representatives. Foreign Relations. Corner-stones and Dedications. District Deputy Grand Masters. District Meetings. Application for Setting Aside Judgment. The Masonic Home. Invitations. Absence from the Grand Jurisdiction. Condition of Masonry.
>
The action of the Grand Master dealing with the following topics is in full accord with the expressed policy of this Grand Lodge as enunciated from time t o time in years past: Solicitation of Funds. Special Dispensations. Elections at Other Than Right Time. Lodge Entertainments.
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
407
To the Committee on Jurisprudence is referred the following; Questions of Jurisdiction. Discipline. Lodge Trials. Decisions. Recommendations. To the Committee on Chartered Lodges and Lodges Under Dispensation we refer the following subjects: Lodges Instituted. Lodges Under Dispensation. To the Committee on Necrology is referred the subject of "Necrology". To the Committee on Finance and Property we refer the subject of "Charity". GRAND TREASURER'S REPORT.
We recommend that the usually well prepared report of the Grand. Treasurer be referred t o the Committee on Finance'and Property. GRAND SECRETARY'S REPORT.
The Grand Secretary's Report comes to your Committee in its usual form, the various items of interest being segregated and placed under topics. The following subjects, being largely a matter of permanent record in the archives of the Grand Lodge, need no reference to any committee: Proceedings 1925. Historical Registry and Abstract. Charters Issued. Lodges Under Dispensation. Masonic Districts. Changes in District Deputy Grand Masters. Grand Representatives near other Grand Lodges. Reduced Railroad Fare. Books of Annual Returns. Edward W. Osgood. Amendments to Laws. Official Circulars. Exhibit " T " .
408
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
To^the Committee on Chartered Lodges and Lodges U. D. we refer the following subjects: Restoration of Charters. Indexing Proceedings. History of Lodges. Card Form of Official Receipts. Dates of the Issuance of Charters. Annual Reports. Questionable Dates of Holding Annual Elections. To the Committee on Finance and Property is referred the following topics: Additional Museum Cases. Steel Transfer Cases. Decorations in Grand Lodge Building. Lists of Regular Lodges. Purchase of Bonds. Estimated Revenue and Expenses for the Ensuing Year. Report of Librarian. All Financial exhibits showing receipts and payments to the Grand Treasurer. We recommend the following subjects be referred to the Committee -on Jurisprudence: Conferring Degrees in Less Than the Required Time. Members of Defunct Lodges. Transcript of Trials. Certificates for Transfer—Dimits. Lodge Funds. Method of Paying Grand Lodge Dues. Illegal Suspensions. Also to the Jurisprudence Committee that portion of the subject "Annual Reports" dealing with Section 95 of the Grand Lodge Laws. The subject of "History of Grand Lodge", in the opinion of your Committee, is an unusually important one and as it does not come within the province.of any of the Standing Committees, your Committee would recommend that it be referred to a Special Committee of three,^to be appointed by the incoming Grand Master, to report at the next Annual Communication. Fraternally submitted, B E N S. PAULEN, JAY B . K I R K , JAMES F . AYRES,
DWIGHT E . COOK, GEORGE HARMAN, Committee.
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
409
R E P O R T - O F COMMITTEE ON NECROLOGY.
Bro. and Rev. FRED E . BROOKS, chairman, submitted the following report, which, on motion was adopted by a rising vote, followed by an invocation by Brother and Rev. JOHN WESLEY BATES: To the M:. W:...Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: " The Scythe is an emblem of Time, which cuts the brittle thread of life, and launches us into eternity. Behold! what havoc the Scythe of Time makes among the human race." So reads the lecture of the degree of a Master Mason. It is therefore fitting that we pause for a few moments to remember reverently those who have been cut down during the past year and gathered into the land where their fathers have gone before them. To thus remember them is to find ourselves linked by indissoluble ties to the past and to the future, and to realize the entire body of Masonry is united in common joys and sorrows. Let us remember first of all the death that occured so recently in the immediate official family of this Grand Lodge, when, February 10th, GUY DONALD DICKEY, Grand Junior Steward, was stricken by the all-devouring Scythe. A young man, in the bloom of early manhood, just finishing his first year as a Grand Officer, and with all the prornise of a useful life! He was born at Leoti, Kansas, September 5, 1901, and was therefore but twenty-four years of age. On his twentyfirst birthday he applied to Leoti Lodge No. 340 to be initiated into the Mysteries of Masonry. He was given the Entered Apprentice degree October 9, 1922; was passed to the degree of a Fellow craft November 6, and raised to the degree of a Master Mason December 4 of the same year. The following year he served his lodge as Senior Deacon, and was promoted each year, serving in 1925 as Master. He was also a member of the Salina Consistory and of the Isis Shrine. Brother DICKEY spent his short life in Leoti, with the exception of a year he served in the United States Navy during the World War. Educated in the schools of his home town, he engaged in the mercantile business there in 1921 and continued in it until his death. He leaves to mourn his loss his wife, MARGARET DICKEY, his father W. C. DICKEY,
D . D . G . M . of the 58th District, one brother, two sisters and his aged grandmother. Funeral services were conducted at Leoti, February 12, 1926, by the Grand Lodge, and at the grave a Rose Croix ceremony was used by the Salina Consistory. I t is gratifying to know that more than one hundred Masons attended this service, members being present from every lodge in the district, thus emphasizing the high esteem in which this young and promising brother was held.
410
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Two other conspicuous deaths occured in our jurisdiction last year. They were the deaths of M.'.W.-. WILLIAM INGRAM STUART, of Hiawatha, and M.-. W.'. JAMES H . MCCALL, of Wichita.
Brother STUART was called by the Grim Messenger November 27, 1925. He had been in failing health for two years, suffering from pernicious anaemia, and every possible effort was made to prolong his life, but in vain. He leaves a long and distinguished Masonic . record. Beginning his work July 16, 1887, in Troy Lodge No. 55, he steadily advanced, serving that Lodge as Master in 1895. In the Grand Lodge, he began with the office of Grand Senior Deacon in 1914, and successively occupied the elective stations, serving as Grand Master, with eminent credit to himself and to the welfare of the Fraternity, in 1918. During the absence of M.'. W.-. Brother CHARLES E. LoBDELL from this jurisdiction during 1917, he being in Washington on important business of the war, Brother STUART actually served as Grand Master for two years. They were eventful years, and in the stress and excitement of warfare, the Head of our Craft had to exercise not only great care in administering the laws and safeguarding the Landmarks and Traditions of the Fraternity, but vigilance in requiring their enforcement. That he did his arduous task faithfully and well . is recognized by the Craft today. He also served most helpfi;lly on many of the important committees of our Grand Lodge. Brother STUART was a judge of the Northeast district of Kansas for twenty-four years, retiring from the bench with an honorable record. As jurist he was unrelenting in strictly adhering to the statutes of the Commonwealth, having in mind at all times his obligations to uphold the laws of the land, but through all the long years of faithful service as judge he never forgot the frailty of human nature or became callous, and many instances are recalled where in meting out punishment he tempered it with mercy. Brother WILLIAM I. STUART was born January 25, 1861, at Ridgeway, Hardin County, Ohio, the son of Scotch and English Quaker parents. He was educated in the common schools of Ohio, and when seventeen years of age moved to Thayer County, Nebraska. Two and a half years later he came to Doniphan County, Kansas, where he resided until 1912, when he moved to Hiawatha. Funeral ser\ices were conducted Sunday, November 29th, under the auspices of his own lodge, Troy No. 55, with R.\W.-. FERRIS M . HILL, Grand Junior Warden, acting as Master. M.-.W.-. Brother JAMES H . MCCALL died in the city of Wichita, where he had lived for abouty thirty-eight years, August 11, 1925. At the time of his death he was next to the oldest living Past Grand Master in years of service, having been Grand Master in 1895. He too leaves a noteworthy Masonic record. He was made a Mason in Flushing Lodge No. 298, of Flushing, Ohio, in 1875: was admitted to Wichita Lodge No. 99, November 7, 1887, and served as its Master in 1888. In the Grand Lodge he served
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
411
as Grand Marshal in 1889 and 1891, and during the succeeding years he filled the elective offices, finishing as Head of the Craft in 1895. During his active life he gave assistance as a member of important committees. The same year he served as Grand Master he purchased and published a periodical known as the Kansas Freemason, and through its columns he strongly advocated the founding of a Masonic Home. Brother MCCALL was born near Morristown, Belmont County, Ohio, July 22, 1849, one of a family of eleven children. His great grandfather, JOHN MCCALL, and his grandfather, ALEXANDER MCCALL,
distinguished themselves in the early struggles for American liberty. He was not blest with educational advantages. A few months he spent in a log school house, and only eight months in Franklin College. He worked on a farm until 1874, when he invented and patented a sheep shearing machine, with which he traveled extensively for eleven years in the United States and Canada. Wichita Lodge No. 99, of which he had been a member for thirty^ six years, accompanied his remains to their last resting place. T h e services were conducted by Fast Masters of the lodge, assisted by R.-.W.-. FERRIS M . H I L L .
In addition to these three brothers whose life has merited special mention, our Craft suffered 839 deaths during 1925. The experience of PHAROAH and the ancient Egyptians at the time of the Passover becomes true for our lodges: "For there was not a house where there was not one dead." Turning our attention reverently to the reports from other Grand Jurisdictions, we find that the dark robed angels have been equally busy elsewhere. How closely does this experience of mortality bind the lives of all Masons together! Time does not permit of more than a brief mention of these brothers who are mourned among their friends as our intimate companions are mourned among us. The reports show that thirty-one Past Grand Masters, two Grand Secretaries and three Grand Treasurers have been called by the death angels. Among these it is of extreme interest to note Brother HENRY ROBINSON, Grand Treasurer of the Grand Lodge of Florida. He began his service in 1877, a time that only a few of us can remember, and served continuously for forty-six years, a life-long evidence of the permanence and continuity of Masonic building. We should also note the death of M.-.W.-. WILLIAM A. CLARK, Past Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Montana. He was the last of three great mining magnates of the state, and of the four leading capitalists to whom the commonwealth is indebted for its mining development. It is reported that the life of Brother CLARK, from 1862, when he drove an ox team across the prairie, is almost identical with the history of the city of Butte and of the larger interests of Montana. Still another we should remember is M.'.W.'. GEORGE WESLEY ATKINSON, Past Grand Master and Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of West Virginia. He served as Grand Master in 1876, and then twenty years as Grand Secretary. He was
412
. PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
Governor of West Virginia, 1897 to 1901, and later United States District Attorney. He was also an author of note. Thus we are again reminded that death is no respecter of persons and that nothing is more certain or common than the tolling of the funeral bells. Among those we mourn were doctors and lawyers, musicians and manufacturers, farmers and teachers, authors and bankers and merchants, each serving society in his own chosen craft. To the bereaved relatives and friends of them all we extend our sympathy; and to GoD, our one Almighty Parent who gave us the gift of their life and service, we return a devout thanksgiving. How comforting it is at such times as this that we can turn to the Landmarks with serenity and confidence, and refresh our jaded memories with the answer we whispered to the question, " I n whom do you put your trust? " Nothing of permanent value is ever lost with GOD. Spiritual ties remain unbroken by death and the grave. What is there that can bring more hope and inspiration when a young life like Brother DICKEY is cut down, than the faith that he shall have opportunity to complete it in the Celestial Lodge above; or when an aged veteran of four score is taken, ripe with service and wisdom, that his soul is too valuable to cease to exist? Brethren of the Grand Lodge, this is a. hope we can rejoice in together and with vigor commend it to bereaved families everywhere. There are material forces at work making it difficult to believe in personal immortality. The difficulty is in the quality of the forces themselves. Immortality rests not upon material, but upon moral values; not upon the shortness and uncertainty of our earthly life, but upon the certainty of the Eternal GOD; a Supreme Spiritual Being we can address in the words of the Psalmist: "Before the mountains were brought forth or ever Thou hadst formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting, Thou art G O D . " When the infinite value of the human soul and the moral purposes of the universe are kept' uppermost in our thinking, according to the definitions of the Great Light of Masonry, belief in immortality is resting upon its surest foundation. The enemy death has never yet been allowed to say the last word when confronted by the creative energies of personal moral worth. As an illustration, let me refer to a scene in a drama, entitled, "The Next Religion," in which immortality supported by another than personal moral value crumples and fails in the critical moment.
STEPHEN TRAME is a teacher of religion and
law, a gospel of science whose truth he holds will breed a sturdier faith in people. His wife, however, does not share his views of such a frigid faith, with its far-off impersonal GOD, which brushes aside the hope of immortality as a mere sentiment. Through the generosity of disciples a temple is built for the propagation of the new religion. The son, WILFRED, writes the music for the dedication ceremony, seeking to capture the melody of the old faith and set it to the alien words of the
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
413
new. Just before the service begins, the son is killed by a fanatic in the vestibule, and his body lies on the floor covered with flowers from the altar. On one side stands the father, with his cold religion of law;, on the other, the mother, white and magnificient in her faith in the religion of holy love. STEPHEN, seeking to console his wife, says, "But he is not dead, MARY; he will live in his music and his " "Stop your words," cries the mother. "Can I embrace his music and feel its heart beating against mine? Will it give me kiss for kiss? There must be people of all ages in heaven. Yes, that is why children die that heaven may not lack little ones and so be less heaven. Is there not time enough and space enough and power enough to set all these blunders straight? Are there not stars enough, universes enough? Or do you think that I cannot wait a million years and journey a million miles if only to hear WILFRED once more say, 'Mother'? I tell you that the great live world will never take your religion, and that even if you delude all the male population the mothers would rise up and tear it to pieces!" And so it is that in the same breath that we say, " I believe in GOD," with its accompaniment of personal moral worth, we can also add, "And in the resurrection of the dead." The'proper Masonic thoughts of death are not gloomy and foreboding, but among the most inspiring that we may cherish. "Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of JUDAH hath prevailed" (Rev. 5:5). " More home-like seems the vast unknown. Since they have entered there; To follow them were not so hard. Wherever they may fare; They cannot be where GOD is not. On any sea or shore; Whate'er betides. Thy love abides. Our GOD, for evermore." —John White Chadwick. Fraternally submitted, FRED E . BROOKS,
Committee.
CALL FROM LABOR TO REFRESHMENT. The Grand Master called the M.-.W/. Grand Lodge from labor to refreshment until 2:00 P. M.
414
PROCEEDINGS OF THE
February,.
AFTERNOON SESSION.
February 24, 1926. The Grand Master called the M.-.W.-. Grand Lodge from refreshment to labor at 2 P. M. WEDNESDAY,
RECEPTION OP M.-. W.". B R O T H E R THOMAS W. WELLINGTON, GRAND MASTER OF IOWA.
The Grand Lodge was honored at this Communication by a visit from the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Iowa, in the person of M.'. W.-. Brother THOMAS W . WELLINGTON. Proper announcement was made that our distinguished guest was in waiting, whereupon the Grand Master appointed the following Past Grand Masters as a reception committee: M.-.W.-. ELMER F . STRAIN, M.-.W.-. PERRY M . HOISINGTON and M.-.W.-. THOMAS L . BOND.
- The committee retired and in due time escorted M.-.W.-. Brother WELLINGTON into the Grand Lodge where he was introduced to our Grand Master who extended to him a cordial welcome and with the assistance of the brethren greeted him with the Grand Honors of Masonry. Brother WELLINGTON'S response was eloquent and interesting and in conclusion he expressed the greetings of the Grand Lodge of Iowa to the Grand Lodge of Kansas. ORATION.
The
M.-. W.-. Grand Master introduced Brother DUNLAP, Professor of English Literature, University of Kansas, who delivered the following oration, and, on motion of R.-. W.-. JOHN W . NEILSON, a rising vote of thanks was extended Brother DUNLAP, and the oration was ordered printed in the Annual Proceedings: CHARLES G .
1925-26.
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Most Worshipful Grand Master and Brethren: The historicity of Free Masonry has long since been satisfactorily established by rigid research and scholarly investigation. Much learning and ingenuity have been expended in an endeavor to trqce Masonry to its remote origins. That it has a far off beginning is accepted; that its origins go back into the dim past is most probable. That it is age-old we all know. The study of origins is most alluring and enticing to antiquarians and to the investigator after truth. The lure of the unknown ,and the unseen, the fascinating possibility of follomng a clue to its original source, and the absolute delight in t h e search, make an irresistible appeal to the historian of Masonry that is most difficult to resist. But the study of origins is attended with many difficulties. There are pitfalls, there are false clues, there are delusive channels that lead nowhere. False enthusiasm and ardent imagination may make the investigator see resemblances where none exist, or the resemblance may be so vague and indefinate as to fail to carry conviction as to its real value. He who searches for origins in any topic must keep a close and firm grasp upon the concrete, the actual, the obvious. He must not allow his fervor, his ardor for discovery, to give him a false vision, or a perverted perspective. Masonry welcomes searchers into Masonic history, and spurs them on with a God-speed, and a cheer of encouragement in their arduous and important endeavors to find the sources, the springs, the hidden beginnings of the institution in which we are all so vitally interested. Mere antiquity means little. Nothing is interesting because of age, but it cannot be denied that the known historical age of Masonry is an undoubted clue to the firm hold which the institution has upon the modern world. Masonry comes from the dim past, crowded with traditions, myth, ritual and associations, and it is so enriched with these, that it suggests reverence, and naturally and easily evokes it from its devotees. Masonry will persist, and remain stable, with such a basis for its existence.
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One of the avowed purposes of the Masonic Institution is to make its votaries wiser, and consequently happier. There could be no loftier ideal, nor nobler purpose than this. If Masonry succeeds in this, it becomes a real ethical force, for happiness in this world is as important as sunshine or rain. A happy man is a good man. Happiness and evil do not go together. To accept the world with gladness, to do one's work with joy, to meet unflinchingly the logic of events, with undisturbed composure, this is a serenity and placidity which comes only from happy people. To make one wiser implies the opening up of new vistas, the broadening of the horizon, the replacing of old, worn-out ideas by newer and better ones. It also implies the readiness to abandon a favorite idea if it be found to be untrue and effete. We cling with great tenacity to favorite doctrines and cherished ideals. The wise man is eager to abandon these if they be found to be untrue. • A man has made a real conquest over himself when he can give up a long cherished idea which he has discovered to be erroneous. Masonry aims to help a man to such a freedom as this. To be wise is to have a reliable background in our thinking and in our attitude towards life and its questions. A background is obtained by reading, and meditation, and by facing the issues, whatever they may be, unafraid, because the truth can bring no terror to the man whose feet are based upon the eternal verities. Truth is a rock of vantage, and only a coward fears to face facts as they are. " T h e truth shall make you free", said the greatest of teachers. The attentive ear, the willing mind, the unprejudiced attitude, indicate growth in wisdom. Without question, one of the finest ideals of Masonry is this endeavor to help men to this newer attitude toward life, by freeing their minds from prejudice, by relieving them from old errors, and outworn beliefs, by showing them vistas undreamed of before. After all, life is a series of endeavors, a pathetic blending of successes and failures, of hope and of despair, of joy and of sorrow, and the Mason who is endeavoring to
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attain wisdom, accepts these mutations of life, quietly, yes, gladly, because with his belief in GOD, he need "fear no danger", because this is GOD'S world and we are His creatures, and the immutable and tremenduous laws that govern the universe are dominated by the divine hand. This acceptance is the highest wisdom, and the reverent Mason, struggles through life to attain it. Here is a philosophy of life which will stand the white light of investigation. If it be good to live by, it will certainly be good to die by. This, of itself, glorifies Masonry, and gives it a real distinction. But, remember. Masonic wisdom may not be imparted. It has no value until it is experienced by one's nature, and is made dynamic in the expansion, and in the development of character. To attain wisdom, one must have light, so Masonry has based its ethical principles upon that volume, which is indeed, " A lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path". The great teacher said, " I am the light of the world", so His teachings radiate that light of which He is the source. Masonic light does not cease to yield its emanations when one has attained full Masonic knowledge, but it' continues to radiate its effulgence as long as one seriously and honestly studies the great volume from which many of its most important teachings are derived. Masonry is a stimulus to the study of the Bible. Masonry makes certain specific claims. One of these is, that it is a progressive institution. That is certainly a high claim, and a lofty ideal. If it be, in reality what it claims to be, a progressive institution, it must also help to make its votaries progressive. It really does this by holding before them lofty standards, sublime teachings, and great truths. It does this further, by urging upon its adherents a study of science, which enables man to know in a systematic way something of the records of the great and enduring work of GOD as exhibited in nature. Masonry would have its votaries to be well-informed men, students of the great immutable laws by which the universe is governed, and by which the planets are dominated in their stupenduous revolutions in space.
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This means that Masonry has a supreme belief in education. This is one of its finest claims. It urges men to read, to learn something of the wonderful heritage of thoughts and ideas which have come down to us from the past. If we are progressive, we must be readers. History, literature, poetry, essays, fiction, art, science, the surprising growth and development of our complex modern life, these may be ours if we are progressive, in the truest way, and upholders of the highest Masonic ideals. In • other words. Masonry would urge its adherents to make the most of this interesting world by learning its resources that we may add to the joy of living, and gain the unqualified pleasure which comes from knowing the best which has been said and done in the world. Masonry would have its followers to be men of enlightenment, who take advantage of the wonderful resources of modern times for the expansion and dissemination of knowledge. This is Masonry's grand ideal. If we fall short of attainment, the blame is ours. Masonry admonishes, and points the way, by urging us to our highest endeavor to be participators of the fuller life. Think of the great list of men of distinction who have graced Masonry and made it significant. The roll is long, and in the list will be found names of men who have attained repute in many fields of human activity, but most significant of all, is it, when we dwell upon the unnumbered hosts of plain men, ordinary, work-a-day men, who by the very regularity of their lives, and the eveness of their endeavors and demeanor, have, perhaps, done most of all, to make Masonry what it is, an institution for men, irrespective of rank or class, or caste, or type. These are the men, who by the very orderliness of their careers, their regular devotion to the everyday duties, their attention to the monotonous details of ordinary life, have made this world what it is. It is not the remarkable history, it is not the wonderful ritual, that makes Masonry great,—no, it is the men who exemplify these principles and tenets in their lives and deeds. Principles alone, history alone, ritual alone, are colorless and dead, of no weight or authority until
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they have been vitalized and made dynamic in the throbbing lives of men in this panoramic whirl of existence which we call life. In other words, Masonry becomes valuable only when it is translated into human terms. Masonry is no isolated thing, a system remote and apart from human life. I t comes into existence only when it becomes a part of the lives of men, and qualifies and modifies that best part of men, the expression of their lives and thoughts which we call character. After all, the real measure of a man is not his estate, or his financial rating, but that something which is above rubies and the gold of OPHiR, the only permanent element in human life—character. Masonry does not claim to be a religion, nor does it ever usurp or take the place of religious teachings. No greater error than this could be suggested. Without question, it does aid religion by bringing to men's minds high principles of living and noble ethical ideals. Masonry is a wonderful ethical system, phrased in a time-honored ritual of remarkable beauty, distinguished by elevated language, and noble expression, with elaborate symbolism, traditions, history, myth, fact, with teachings of positive and permanent value. This ritual is doubtless the result of years of accumulative experience, and has proven its right to be perpetuated in positive and in permanent form. Conduct is the visible, outward expression of character. The inner life of man, his secret thought, his vague, undefined ideals, and his unexpressed eniotions, reveal themselves in conduct. The man who endeavors to exemplify Masonry in his daily dealings with his fellow-men, gains much in securing an enlarged idea of conduct, because Masonry builds up the inner man, it is edifying, it enlarges the vision in an expanded view of human contact and human relationship, it warns of pitfalls, it suggests resources for the advance ment in growth and for the development of that intangible thing which we call character. The influence of Masonry upon its votaries in this important field, is the most significant expression of its positive value.
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Masonry rises or falls by the exemplification of its principles and teachings in our every day life, in our dealings with men in ordinary affairs, in business transactions, in the commonplaces, as well as in the great crises of existence which try men's souls and test their spiritual values. Masonry is not a theory, a group of beautiful teachings isolated from all human relationships. We are Masonry, and it exists only as we live it in our ordinary, daily dealings with our fellow-men. It is most significant to observe while Masonry is such an ancient institution, it is, a t the same time, so modern, so universal in its appeal, so readily adapted to our present times and conditions, so fitted to aid in our modern strenuous period. The teachings are so general, so universal, that they adapt themselves readily to all periods. The truths taught are what we may call universal truths, hot local, or temporary, but undisputed truths, about which we need not argue, which may be accepted without gainsaying or questionings. As they make an appeal to all men, the truths taught are simple, obvious, easily apprehended, and striking. The great light of Masonry is the Bible, the most important and significant book in the world. The great moral truths accepted today are largely Bible truths which have been found to be adapted to our human needs. The Bible should be a great guide-book to Masons. Our professions are in vain unless this be so. The great translation of the Bible, the so-called Authorized Version, or KING JAMES' version, made in 1611, is without doubt, one of the greatest, if not the greatest prose work in our great literature. It came into existence during SHAKESPEARE'S period, and it exhibits in a striking way the characteristics which distinguish the great works of literature which came from the Elizabethan period. The vocabulary is rich and varied, containing for the most part words that are readily understood, with an occasional archaic word retained from an older translation. This wonderful translation has been in use for more than three hundred years, and is as popular today as it ever was. For verbal felicities, as well as for beauty of phrasing it is a worthy
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companion on the library shelves of SHAKESPEARE himself. The translation possesses great dignity and stateliness, and throughout in the language there is fine restraint. The translation exhibits many passages of great beauty and sublimity. What could be simpler, and at the same time more eflfective as language than "Consider the lilies of the field, they toil not neither do they spin?" Many passages could easily be isolated to exhibit the wonderful variety of forms of literature in this book. Perhaps for solemn beauty and perfect metrical cadence, the unforgetable, wonderful passages so familiar to all Masons is unsurpassed, "Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them". The exquisite lines, "or ever the silver cord be loosed, or the golden bowl be broken, or the pitcher be broken at the fountain, or the wheel broken at the cistern", haunt the memory on account of the sheer beauty of phrasing. How fortunate it is that the Masonic ritual is embellished with so many great passages taken from the Bible. This has helped to glorify the ritual, and to give it a permanent value in the memory of all Masons, not only on account of the teachings, but also for the beautiful languages in which the teachings are expressed. Masons owe a special allegiance to this book which is a light indeed, as its rays are reflected in many of the teachings which are found in the ritual. Masonry makes an appeal to men. The scholar, the student, the man of high rank, as well as the man of low degree, the toiler, the man of leisure, "all sorts and conditions of men", find gratification and satisfaction in the uplift that comes with Masonic knowledge. All are brought together and harmonized by these bonds of brotherhood which are exhibited and exemplified by Masonic teachings. Masonry is for men. What a many-sided contradiction man is,—now tempestuous, now serene, now exalted, now debased, now strong, now weak. In an exalted reflective mood, SHAKESPEARE puts into HAMLET'S mouth
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these unforgetable words: " W h a t a piece of work is a man! how noble in reason! how infinite in faculty! in form and moving how express and admirable! in action how like an angel! in apprehension how like a god! the beauty of the world! the paragon of animals!" • To such a complicated being as man, Masonry makes its appeal, with its endeavor to furnish a philosophy of life, which is not mere theory and speculation, but which is practical, real, livable, which will stand the wear and tear of everyday life. The Masonic ritual brings with it many ancient, shadowy traditions. Traditions are precious to men, and they are held in high regard and esteem, because they bring with them some of the most important and significant memories of the past. It is by tradition that the noble deeds and events of the past are preserved. Traditions hallow the past and make it revered. How far these traditions have their roots in fact, historians and scholars will perhaps never know, but we do know that they are firmly rooted in the consciousness of thousands of votaries of the Craft. It is, as a matter of fact, of small importance whether the traditions be based on a slender historical foundation or not, as they have stood the test of many years, and are found to be of the same spiritual value as actual history itself. In a very significant and satisfying way, in some parts of Masonry, tradition is actually as satisfying as historical fact. The ritual may have in it some mythical elements. It is impossible to isolate these parts, as after all myth and history in primitive times, are sometimes hard to separate. The astonishing thing is, that these shadowy elements are illuminated by high imagination, and sometimes by solemn beauty, and even sublimity. The solemn things of life, and even of death, may sometimes be made effective to us, and unforgetable through mythical history. One may question the authenticity of the sources, but one never questions the solemnity of the lesson, or the uniqueness of the occasion. The results are just as effective, the lessons'just as significant, the memory just as -permanent, the imaginative
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effect just as vivid, as though the actual facts were before us in undoubted form. Life would be sterile and commonplace indeed, without such glimpses occasionally of such high, exalted imaginings. Beside all this, the riutal has in it, the accretions and the accumulations of many valuable and tried principles of practical and homely ethics, which have been found to be of value in the commonplace as well as in the more strenuous crises of life. These principles are so obvious, their application so real, their value so apparent that their unquestioned adoption is easy. It is not an unfair definition to say that Masonry is a fragmentary ethical system, highly symbolical, illuminated and made dramatic by striking scenes and situations of unusual interest, based on Biblical history, traditions, and myth. It is secret, because secrecy is an element that obviously helps men to bind themselves as a unit into a world-wide organization, held together by unbreakable ties in a common and universal ritual. One of the most surprising thoughts about Masonry is its universality. Wherever organized society exists, in all quarters of the world. Masonry is found. This, of itself, is a feature which glorifies and exalts the institution. I t is, indeed, a world organization, with ramifications into all parts of the civilized universe. This shows its wonderful vitality, and its adaptability to meet conditions and situations which confront men of different races, and types, and varying degrees of education and culture. The future of Masonry is tremendous. The possibilities for growth are illimitable. Masons have a right to be proud of Masonic history, but they have a larger right to be proud of the institution as it is today, with its enormous possibilities for advancement. Perhaps that which is Masonry's highest achievement and its crowning glory, is its recognition of the brotherhood of man, man as man, not man as elevated by social rank, or prestige or financial consideration. I t casts aside all the barriers which have been erected by rank, or caste, or class, or social position, and accepts man
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as he is, and emphasizes, above all other things, that which is paramount and enduring, character. The brotherhood of man, philanthropic love, that which binds us to our brothers all over the world, gives us a renewed confidence in life. This is not mere rhetoric, these are not idle words or fulsome phrasing of flattery, but it is plain and sober fact, and upon this immovable basis. Masonry rests. It must stand or fall by this. Great buildings, and show and pageantry, will pass away into oblivion, but this surprising tenet of Masonry will endure. More and more in these latter days has the brotherhood of man been called to the attention of an eager world. The ancient question, "Am I my brother's keeper", has been answered. The trend of modern thought shows that the whole world is meditating upon this important question. Is the brotherhood of- nations a vision of poets and political theorists, or is it a workable hypothesis, capable not merely of abstract expression but of being put into political and practical form? Is brotherhood just a word to bandy about and conjure with, to help to make a pretty phrase, or a wellsounding period? Is it a word of undefined significance, a word of loose, vague, inexact application for poets and phrase-makers to play with? Does it voice sincerity? Has it a fundamental idea back of it? Here is food for reflection. This large question is worth our best thought. As Masons we have had high ideals placed before us. We are the living representatives of a theory. Let us conisecrate ourselves anew, and dedicate our better natures to t h e lofty ideals embodied in the ancient traditions and teachings of that institution which depends for its good repute and for its perpetuity upon us whose lives must represent visible Masonry to the world, ever remembering, that as we live, so will Masonry be judged.
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PORTRAIT IN OIL OF R/. W/. ALBERT K. WILSON, GRAND SECRETARY. Immediately following the Oration, W/. Brother WILLIS COATBS, Past Master of Orient Lodge No. 51, of Topeka, and of which lodge the Grand Secretary is a member, asked permission to address the Grand Lodge, which was granted. In offering his remarks Brother COATES first stated that he was acting as the representative of Orient Lodge No. 51, Topeka Lodge No. 17, Golden Rule Lodge No. 90, Siloam Lodge No. 225, Topeka Chapter No. 5, Zabud Council No. 4 and Topeka Commandery No. 5, all of whom were interested in paying honor to our present Grand Secretary, R.-.W.'. Brother ALBERT K . WILSON. He then called attention to the long and faithful years of service of Brother WILSON as Grand Secretary and Grand Recorder of the several Grand Bodies of Kansas, and also to the sincere desire on the part of the Fraternity of the city of Topeka to place in the beautiful Masonic Grand Lodge Building a portrait in oil of this distinguished brother as a memorial to the Fraternity in this city in particular, and to the Craft in general throughout the Grand Jurisdiction, and he took great pride in stating that this desire had now been realized and on behalf of the several bodies of this city, as indicated above, a life sized portrait in oil of our Grand Secretary had been painted by one of our most distinguished artists, GEORGE M . STONE, and he had the pleasure and honor of presenting this to the Grand Lodge. The words expressed by Brother COATES were highly complimentary to the Grand Secretary and his faithful stewardship during all his years of service, and from the rapt attention given the speaker it was evident they met with the hearty approval of all members present. Immediately following the conclusion of his remarks, the painting, which had been hung in the front of the gallery and immediately over the Grand East, was unveiled, to the delight of the Grand Lodge, as evidenced by the tremendous applause following. The surprise to the Grand Lodge was insignificant compared to that of the Grand Secretary who for the time being could only make proper acknowledgement of the compliment by remaining silent. The M.-.W.'. Grand Master, Brother CHARLES A. LouCKS, in accepting this gift on behalf of the Grand Lodge, expressed in a most touching manner the feeling of love and respect for the Grand Secretary and of the high esteem in which he is held by the Craft, not only in this Grand Jurisdiction, but throughout all parts of the universe where the Light of Freemasonry shines. He gave assurances that this gift would occupy a place in the rotunda in the main entrance to the Masonic Grand Lodge Building, beside that of the beautiful painting of our first M.\W.-. Grand Master, Brother RICHARD R . REES, which
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had been presented to the Grand Lodge one year ago by the Fraternity of the city of Leavenworth. His remarks, Uke those of Brother COATES, touched the heart of the Grand Secretary in a manner never before experienced by him in his many years of service in the Fraternity. The Grand Master in concluding his remarks, tempered the pathetic part of this occasion with a slight touch of mirth, in quoting the following words from OLIVER GOLDSMITH'S " T h e Deserted Village": "And still they gazed, and still the wonder grew, That one small head could carry all he knew." The Grand Master then called upon the Grand Secretary for remarks and after the Grand Lodge had again expressed its feehngs in prolonged applause, he arose and after making due acknowledgment of the great honor which had been conferred upon him in having his portrait hung in the Grand Ledge Building, and especially so while he was alive and eould appreciate the many kind expressions of good will, friendship and brotherly love heard on every side, he referred to the lives and character of the pioneers of Masonry in this Grand Jurisdiction, particularly emphasizing the faithful services and virtues of his immediate predecessor, M.-.W.-. JOHN H . BROWN. In referring to that distinguished Craftsman he called attention to his portrait which hangs on the wall in one of the most prominent places in the Grand Lodge Library, yet today there is scarcely a single visitor to that magnificent building who even stops to examine this likeness^ although Brother BROWN at the time of his death occupied the same position and commanded the same love and respect as your present Grand Secretary. Referring further to the life and services of Brother BROWN he called attention to his early association with the pioneer of Fremasonry in the Grand Jurisdiction of Iowa, R.". W.'. THEODORE SUTTON PARVIN, who was serving his fifty-seventh year as Grand Secretary a t the time of his death, June 28, 1901. These two brethren, with a few other zealous Masons, carried the Light of Freemasonry to an almost undiscovered country and we today are enjoying the heritage left by such brethren as these, who in establishing the Great Light of Masonry founded it upon the Ancient Charges and Landmarks of the Fraternity. In referring to the' early companionship of Brothers BROWN and PARVIN he stated that this occasion was enhanced in value because we had with us at this Annual Communication M.'.W.-. Brother THOMAS W . WELLINGTON, present Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Iowa. Proper tribute was also paid to others of our forefathers in Masonry, whose services to the Craft are now only a memory to the very few, and the permanent records of the Grand Lodge are all that remain, to tell the story.
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In conclusion Brother WILSON expressed the hope that when he laid down the working tools of life his record would be such that there would be no cause for regret on the part of his brethren who had so signally honored him by placing this magnificent work of art where it could be seen by future generations. The painting in question is 30x40 inches in size, and the frame is all gold leaf, highly ornamented and eight inches in width.
SPECIAL ADDRESS.
The following Special Address, to be delivered during the year at all District Meetings and subsequently in all Lodges, and which had been prepared by authority of the Grand Lodge and on instructions from the M.'. W.". Grand Master, was delivered by W.'. ROBERT P. McCOLLOCH:
SYMBOLS AND SYMBOLISM. "Freemasonry is a beautiful system of morals veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols." BRETHREN:
In former addresses we studied the fundamentals of our Craft, examined the Landmarks, and sought to discover the origin of Freemasonry. We now come to a consideration of Masonic Symbols, and an inquiry as to their origin and purposes. The subject is too big to be intelligently covered in one address. It is also obvious that for a proper understanding of our particular symbols there must be some knowledge of symbols and the science of symbolism in preparation for a discussion of those which, in the remote past, were selected from the mass as adapted for the illustration of our moral code. The history and development of the human race is best understood by a study of symbols. It is also manifest that to comprehend Freemasonry, one must comprehend the masonic symbols and signs, and apprehend the truths veiled in its allegories. The symbols of Freemasonry are the keys to its philosophy. It is regrettable that, in this
REPRODUCTION OF THE
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A L B E R T K. W I L S O N , G R A N D SECRETARY A N D G R A N D R E C O R D E R
PRESENTED TO THE GRAND LODGE FEBRUARY 24, 1926 ALSO
PICTURE OF THE BRASS PLATE ACCOMPANYING THE PORTRAIT.
ALBERT K. WILSON
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day, so little time is given to the study of these things. Many of the brethren, proficient in the work, have little information and less appreciation of the signs and symbols which they communicate to candidates. They fail to realize that each one of these is a concrete and visible expression of an abstract and concealed truth. This incident may be in point: A man passing by where a massive building was being erected, observed men working in stone. To three of the workmen he addressed the question, " W h a t are you doing?" One replied, " I am earning a day's wage." Another said, " I am shaping this stone." But the third answered, " I am building a temple." Of the three, only one had vision. He saw a temple in the stone. Very much like these workmen are Masons; skilled in the work and lectures, but lacking perception of the profound truths which are visibly expressed by signs and symbols. It is not given to everyone who observes signs and symbols, to immediately know their meaning. But to him who makes thoughtful and diligent search, there comes the revelation of truth thus illustrated. Hence it follows that Masons are urged to a systematic study of these, and the beautiful allegories by which Masonic principles are made plain. The symbol and the allegory have such important functions in masonic ritualism and education that the meaning of each should be clearly understood. As used in Freemasonry, the symbol is a material object by which a moral truth is expressed and impressed. Thus, in masonic instruction, the plumb of the artisan is presented as representative of the virtue of rectitude. The allegory, a narrative having a literal and a figurative meaning, is employed to convey the idea of that admirable virtue. Integrity. An example of its use is found in the Third Degree, and in the narrative relating to HIRAM ABIF. The primitive man thought before he spoke. He had ideas, wants, emotions, aspirations. For these he must have a means of expression. He found it in a language of signs, gestures, symbols. The spoken word was of long growth, evolved from these. And these constitute a universal language in which is discovered a common human
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nature. And herein it is made clear that, in the last analysis, the human race has a common and a harmonious mind. This fact, attested by the primitive religious symbols' found in every land, is the basis upon which rests the hope and belief that somehow, at some time, humanity •will find its way to a state of society in which discord will give place to harmony and the Era of Universal Brotherhood be ushered in. The First Man, whether springing full-formed from the hand of GOD, or struggling upwards through periods of evolution, was a religious creature. The universal mind is, above all other things, a religious mind. The primitive man did, from the beginning, recognize a power or personality above and beyond him. And he worshipped. An exercise in imagination should make this clearer. Picture yourself as the First Man. You are seeing your first sunrise: The amazing splendor sends you to your knees in adoration. You are seeing your first sunset. As the shadows lengthen, you fall prostrate in fear. The moon rises. Stars are in the skies. You are somewhat cheered, but strangely moved by these wonders. It is beyond all understanding, but it is inevitable that you have the consciousness of a power or personality controlling all these things. Days come and go; years pass, revealing to"you Nature in all her beneficient, beautiful, terrifying moods, until you come to believe, as succeeding generations come to believe, that there is a maker and ruler of the universe. And you make symbols to represent your GOD, as men after you will do when they vision their GOD. And for your symbols, you take the natural wonders which you have seen to express your GOD and His attributes, bowing before these, worshipping the Creator through His creations. This is precisely what Primitive Man did. It is sometimes asserted that particular peoples of ancient times were the custodians of religion. In a limited sense, that is true. But, from the beginning, primitive religion was the common property of every nation, kindred, tribe, as is abundantly proven by the symbols and the picture language of all people of antiquity.
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It is reasonable to assume that the first symbols were such as the primitive man selected to represent his deity. Step by step, others were added until the man was able to express the "things" of his time by emblems and rude sketches on smooth surfa;ces of wood and stone. These became fixed, generally understood, and were transmitted from father to son, multiplied by generation after generation, culminating in a system incorporating and representing all the religion, philosophy, wisdom, the arts and learning of the remotest times. And while it has been found t h a t ancient peoples made use of different symbols to. express deity, and further, that some of the ancients used such symbols as would indicate a worship of many deities, yet the investigations of students disclose a certain harmony, and that although there was in some parts of the ancient world worship of numerous deities, these were subordinate to the One Deity who was, in the concept of the ancients, as in our own, the Grand Architect of the Universe. Freemasonry, rightly understood, is a religious institution. Belief in• the existence of GOD is requisite to admission into our fraternity, and the first essential to such admission. But Freemasonry is in no sense a religion of sect or creed. By signs, symbols and allegories, coming down from immemorial time,. Freemasonry seeks to inculcate the religious idea. As one of our profound thinkers—MACKEY—says: " I t (Freemasonry) admits men of every creed within its hospitable bosom, rejecting none and approving none for his peculiar faith. Its religion is t h a t general one of nature and primitive revelation, handed down to us from some ancient and patriarchal priesthood, in which all men may agree and in which no men differ."Symbols, considered generally, were early reduced to a system, the Science of Symbolism being the result. This science has long engaged the serious thought and searching investigation of great scholars. Volumes have been written dealing with this primitive language, and every succeeding century brings many new and clearer revelations of the history of the race from the beginning.
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One writer has aptly said: "The origin of the science of Symbols is lost in the night of time, and seems to connect itself with the Cradle of Humanity; the most ancient worships submitted to its law, the arts of Design, Architecture, Statuary and Painting were born under its influence, and the primitive writing is also one of its applications." This statement appears to establish two facts of importance: First, that Freemasonry is of very ancient origin, since it makes use of ancient symbols; and second, that Freemasonry, originating in the Building Art, made the implements of that Art its agents for the symbolic expression of its religious philosophy and moral code. As tangible evidence of the age of our Craft and of its symbols, and of their derivation from age—old peoples, —there stands in Central Park, New York City, an obelisk known as "Cleopatra's Needle." Its companion is in London. When the obelisk now in our American city was taken down, preparatory to its shipment to this country, there was discovered in the pedestal upon which it had stood for centuries, an apron, a trowel, a trestle-board and two ashlars—emblems of Masonry, witnesses that in the country said to be the cradle of civilization the symbols, ceremonies and rites known to and practiced by us were familiar to and performed by the learned Egyptians. Add to the testimony of this venerable shaft the, symbolism of Freemasonry as this is uncovered in the ruins of cities of old Chaldea, Assyria, India, Greece, Rome; add to all this the more recent discoveries made in prehistoric cities of our own land, and there is presented the undeniable evidence of the existence of Freemasonry from immemorial time and that, by the use of symbols, it taught men of all ages the fundamental and eternal truths. Closely akin to the symbols of common acceptance among men are the allegories common to all mankind. These, as the symbols, have to do with the universal ideas of GOD, the so.ul, immortality. They are, in many cases, expanded symbols, appearing with the beginning of spoken language. They are defined to be narratives having a literal as well as a figurative meaning. It has been said
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that they do not essentially differ from symbols; but that is not entirely true. Dr. MACKEY distinguishes between them by saying that they do not differ in purpose, but do differ in character. He points this out, so far as they relate to Freemasonry, by reference to the legend of the Third Degree, which, of itself, teaches the lesson of restoration to life, and contrasting that legend with the Sprig of Acacia, a symbol early established as expressing the immortality of the soul. It was by the use of the allegory that much of the knowledge of the ancient world was transmitted from generation to generation, first by the the picture language, and then by the spoken and written word. The allegory was the basis of the earliest religions and philosophies, and of that which we call "The Mysteries." In both Greek and Roman mythology large use was made of the allegory, and Jewish priests and prophets inculcated their doctrines by its use. The Man of Galilee taught by parables, or allegories. One of the best examples of its use in modern times is BuNYAN's "Pilgrim's Progress," a production which enriched the literature of the world. The Bible is largely allegorical. In Symbolic Masonry the choicest portion of the ritual is the legend of KING SOLOMON'S Temple, a constant stimulant and enduring method for the building of composite and individual Masonic character. This discussion of symbols generally will be of value if by it, we shall begin to see that Freemasonry is an idea, rather than a ritual; a system of Truth, founded upon an Operative Art; that it is not to be understood by what is termed "the Work," but by that concealed in the Work; that everything material in it has a spiritual interpretation ; that in it there is the exactness of form and order as knits it to the oldest of sciences. Geometry, and reflects the harmony of Creation. Thinking upon these things, finding new truth in Masonic symbols and allegories, we shall come to know a thing that some Masons appear to have forgotten: There is but one Freemasonry, it consists of three degrees, and is Symbolic Freemasonry. This being so, it should be constantly held in mind and always strongly affirmed. The whole subject of
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symbols and allegories belongs, exclusively, to Symbolic Masonry. Such terms as "higher degrees," "higher Masons," are misleading. They are not only in bad taste but also indicate a lack of knowledge upon the part of the brother who gives expression to them. We should get the fact, and grip it, that Symbolic Masonry stands independent and alone, sufficient and supreme in itself. Any claim asserted to other kinds of Masonry is a confession that the brother making the claim has failed to understand the symbolism and the allegories of the Craft. Freemasonry, as we know it, is the product of an Art, or Craft. It is a system of morals evolved from an Operative Art, its philosophy being explained by the implements of that Art and by allegories. It is the incorporation of all knowledge of all time having to do with the teachings, traditions, principles of the visible universe, human nature, government, humanity, all set in right relation and taught by an art of Symbolization as practiced from the most ancient times. As the science of geometry is the basis on which operative masonry has always rested, so is it the science from which speculative masonry derives its most important symbols, among these, the forty-seventh problem of Euclid. If we take time to think these things through, pursuing the subject as we may and should, there will come to each of us a marvelous revelation, and one of which we may have had but meager knowledge. If we direct our thought to the proposition that Masonry and Geometry are one, this will be demonstrated:—The Lodge, in its degrees, conforms to the Order of the Universe; its forms and situation, to the earth; its "work" to the principles of Geometry; all symbolically represented and explained. This being granted, nothing "new" can be added to Masonry. Any innovation introduced into the "body of Masonry" would fail. Masonry is exact, perfect, complete, as is the science of numbers. Its order is fixed, unchangeable, even as that of the material universe. In pure Masonry there can be no change either of symbolism or allegory. Any attempt to distort the Fraternity, or to use it for the sponsoring of other societies or organizations, would create discord
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and impair the harmony so essential to the propagation and growth of masonic idealism as it is demonstrated by symbols and allegories. There is a marked distinction between Symbolic Freemasonry and that which is sometimes referred to as "Bigher Degrees" and properly denominated "Capitular" and "Cryptic" degrees. Symbolic Masonry, has always consisted of three degrees only. These degrees, because illustrated by symbols, give it the distinctive name. Instruction in its mysteries is by use of a symbolism made up of the working tools of the ancient operative Craft. Also, its allegories, myths and legends are used symbolically, and so interpreted, make direct appeal to the receptive mind. By them, as one has well observed, "spiritual things are better understood and make the deeper impression." The significant difference between Symbolic Masonry and the Capitular and Cryptic degrees is this: The former presents Masonic philosophy; the latter. Masonic history and its related traditions and legends. By its system of symbolism, the former gives to the eye visible sign.of hidden truth and thus impresses the mind and heart. The latter, dealing with masonic history and historical legends and traditions, illustrates these by the ceremonies and lectures of its degrees. To fasten in the mind the events of masonic history is the purpose of these degrees, and this is done by spectacular pictures, dramatic situations, impressive and beautiful scenes. Some may claim this has symbolic character, but it remains true that its sole design is to convey that which is masonic history, rather than the masonic philosophy as it is explained only by the symbols and allegories of the Craft. This excursion into a study of symbolism generally, with suggestions of Symbolic Masonry, may stimulate desire for more knowledge of the signs, symbols, allegories of the ancient craft. We may at some future time enter that inviting field and there learn the messages of the symbols. But, let it be understood, "A man cannot absorb Masonry; he must learn it." The royal road to the Royal Art is a hard road, but a safe one. Mere attendance
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on the communications of the lodge will not do. To become an accomplished craftsman, one must know the ritual and, beyond this, must comprehend that for which the ritual stands. It is because too many of the brethren lack in knowledge of the symbolism that there is loss of masonic ideas, power, influence. The history of the Craft has engaged the thought of our students and authors to the detriment of its philosophy. One fault of today is the hurried manner in which the "work" is communicated, the apparent carelessness, even lack of dignity in conferral of degrees. Our minds should therefore be directed to this fact: Freemasonry is not a mere fraternity. It is a Craft, ancient and honorable, common to all men in all ages, evidence of which is found in every land. And above all this. Freemasonry is a speculative science, founded upon an operative art, a system of philosophy having its inception in the mind of primitive Man, who gave it visible expression and appeal by certain signs and symbols which, appearing in every land, in all time, has come to us unchanged and unchangeable, a type of the eternal. Masons have neglected the study of the Craft in its symbolic form. To induce that study present day scholars and authors are concentrating effort. They seek to lift Symbolic Freemasonry out of the realm of mere fraternalism, and place it in the sphere where it rightly belongs. In that sphere it is supreme as a revelation of the fundamental things of life, immortality, the soul, GOD.' Here it is found to conform to the orderly processes of nature. Here it is synonymous with geometry. It is of this sphere that a profound student observes:' " It is the order of creation; that is, the Divine Order, which Masonry celebrates and imitates; and without it. Masonry, in its sublime sense as symbolical or speculative, would be without occupation or object." Brethren, if we will but enter upon a comprehensive study of our symbols and allegories with open and eager minds, we shall find an amazing well of Truth from which to draw living water to the refreshment and invigoration
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of our souls. And—as a final word^we shall come to know that Symbolic Masonry is one of the highways along which mankind may travel to brotherhood, and onejof the gateways leading unto GOD.
CALL FROM LABOR TO REFRESHMENT. The Grand Master then called the M.-.W.-. Grand Lodge from labor to refreshment until 7:15 p. M.
EVENING SESSION.
February 24, 1926. The Deputy Grand Master called the M.-.W.-. Grand Lodge from refreshment to labor at 7:15 P. M. WEDNESDAY,
EXEMPLIFICATION OF THE WORK. In accordance with an invitation extended to Orient Lodge No. 51, the Third Degree was exemplified in full dramatized form, in Representative Hall, under the direction of W.-. HARVEY 0. DAVIS, Lecturer.
CALL FROM LABOR TO REFRESHMENT. The Deputy Grand Master then called the M.-.W.-. Grand Lodge from labor to refreshment until 9 A. M. Thursday.
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MORNING SESSION.
February 25, 1926. The M.". W.". Grand Lodge was called from refreshment to labor by the M.-. W.-. Grand Master at 9 A. M. THURSDAY,
REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEE.
M.-. W.'. JOHN MCCULLAGH, chairman of the special committee appointed a t the last Annual Communication presented the following report, which, on his motion, was adopted: To the M.:W:.
Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas:
To this Committee at the last Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge was referred the following subjects: Lodge Trials. Balloting. Courtesies Exchanged. Physical Qualifications. The subjects will receive consideration in that order. LODGE TRIALS.
The subject of "Lodge Trials" has occupied the attention of the Committee over a long period of time and to it we have given t h e most earnest consideration. We have come to the conclusion that in our method of proceeding in lodge trials there is absolute necessity of change. As now conducted lodge trials are a source of unnecessary and undue contention and have a strong tendency toward disruption. Our research upon the subject has been extensive almost to the point of being exhaustive and we do not hesitate to recommend that our procedure be changed to a hearing of the evidence and a trial before a commission to be composed of five members and to be appointed b y . the Grand Master. We have carefully considered what we believe to be the intent of the last Grand Lodge in the reference of this matter and construe the reference to be so full as to permit the suggestion by this committee of a code of procedure upon the subject of "Lodge Trials" and we
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therefore attach hereto, as an addenda, a suggested code of procedure expressly making it a part of this report as fully as though embodied herein. Your committee unanimously recommends the change in the form of lodge trials as set forth in said addenda, and further recommends that this portion of our report be forthwith referred by the Grand Master to the Committee on Jurisprudence for their immediate consideration and report to the Grand Lodge at this Communication. BALLOTING.
Your committee feels that while the method of balloting is not a Landmark, the custom so long in use of requiring a separate ballot on each petition is so universally understood that a departure from this requirement, while it would in a few cases serve the convenience of some of our larger lodges, would result in laxity and carelessness. Any benefit which might result would not justify any change in this long established custom and we therefore recommend that no change be made. COURTESIES EXCHANGED.
We have carefully considered the subject of conferring degrees as a courtesy on the request of a lodge in another Grand Jurisdiction or within our own jurisdiction and are of the opinion that the petition should be received and acted on at a Stated Communication by the unanimous consent of the members present. It should not be necessary for a ballot to be spread thereon. The legal effect of objection when the petition is presented is equivalent to the use of the black cube. The right of objection affords every needed safeguard in the case of one who has already been elected by secret ballot. We therefore recommend this subject be referred to the Committee on jurisprudence with instructions to submit the necessary legislation. PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS.
We have given consideration to this subject and are of the opinion t h a t not only the Constitution but the accepted Landmarks of Masonry make it impossible to receive the petition of one who has a bodily defect or physical disability and any change in the Constitution would be a violation of the Ancient Landmarks. As Masons, we are charged that •"The Ancient Landmarks of the Fraternity entrusted to our care "we are carefully to preserve and never suffer them to be infringed •or countenance a deviation from the established usages and customs of t h e Fraternity." The Ancient Charges specify and as Masters of Lodges we have admitted the fact and assented thereto, that " i t is not in the power of any man or body of men to make innovations in the body of Masonry." We hold that it is not within the power or jurisdiction of the
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Grand Lodge or any other Masonic Body to make changes or introduce innovations in the Landmarks of Masonry. The physical qualifications of a candidate for the Mysteries of Masonry is not a subject of legislation; We therefore recommend that no further consideration be given the matter. Fraternally submitted, JOHN MCCULLAGH, RICHARD E . BIRD, CHARLES N . FOWLER,
Committee.
ADDENDA.
RULES OF PROCEDURE IN MASONIC TRIALS, APPEALS AND PUNISHMENTS. 130. Rules of Procedure in Masonic Trials.—Whenever a Brother shall be accused of any offense, which, if proved, might subject himlto reprimand, or to expulsion or suspension from the rights and privileges of Masonry, the proceedings in the premises shall be conducted agreeably to the rules of procedure in Masonic Trials, Appeals and Punishments. 131. Construction and Application of Rules of Procedure.—The Riiles of Procedure in Masonic Trials, Appeals and Punishments, shall be liberally construed with a view to promote their objects and to give ample protection to every one in his rights. Its provisions shall not be applicable to suspension for non-payment of dues, or to controversies between Masons, except in cases not cognizable and relievable by the laws of the country in which they may be, or in cases involving some law or custom of Masonry. 132. Offense Against the Body of Masonry.—An offense against the Body of Masonry is a wrong which may consist of any omission of Masonic duty specifically enjoined, or the commission of any act that may be derogatory to the reputation of Masonry. No accusation shall lie against any Mason on account of any disagreement of a pecuniary nature merely, between himself and a brother. 138. Jurisdiction.—Every proceeding shall be bas.ed upon jurisdiction of the person, or subject of the action, and no action shall proceed ex parte until it shall appear that the accused has been personally or constructively served with summons in the manner hereinafter prescribed, unless he.be restrained of his liberty, except for insanity, and unable voluntarily to appear.
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134. Limitation of Action.—No accusation shall lie against any Mason for any offense committed before he petitioned for the Mysteries of Masonry, or for any offense committed more than five years before the charges shall be presented, unless the offense has been concealed or its perpetrator unknown. The presentation of charges and the proceedings thereon shall not affect a Mason's standing until sentence has been pronounced. 135. Who May be Punished.—A Master Mason under sentence of suspension, as well as all other Master Masons, may be charged, tried and expelled, if found guilty. Entered Apprentices and Fellow Crafts may be charged, tried, and, if found guilty, punished in the same manner, and to the same extent, as Master Masons, subject only to the rule that accountability may and should be limited by the degree of light received. 136. Duties of Wardens.—The Senior Warden, who superintends the Craft during the hours of labor, shall report any Mason who may be guilty of an offense during the period of his superintendence. The Junior Warden, who superintends the Craft during the hours of refreshment, that is, during the period intervening the Communications, shall report any Mason who may be guilty of an offense during the period of his superintendence. 137. Charges and Specifications—Accuser .—The accusation shall be made in writing, with specifications of the offense, under the signature of a Master Mason, and given in charge to the Master, who shall call upon his Lodge to act upon the accusation, at a Stated Communication thereof, except as provided by By-Law 142. 138. Charges and Specifications—Form.—The caption of an ac-cusation shall be substantially: "Charges and Specifications against Brother A. B., a Member of Lodge No. . " The formal part of the charge shall be: "Charge ." If more than one offense be alleged and different in nature, the charges shall be numbered: "Charge I ," " Charge II ," and so on to the last. The formal parts of a specification shall be as follows: "Specification. In this:" And it shall conclude, "Contrary to the precepts of Freemasonry." If there be more than one accusation under a charge, the .specifications shall be numbered "Specification I. In this," and so on. 139. Charges and Specifications—Entertainment.—If the Lodge, "by a majority vote of its members present, determine that the charges be •entertained, the accusation shall be given in charge to the Grand Secretary, who shall, under the direction of the Grand Master, transmit the •same to the Chairman, or Chairman pro tempore, of the Board. 140. Charges and Specifications—Summons.—The accused shall be served with an attested copy of the charges together with a summons to appear at a time and place to be named in said summons and make such answer to the charges and accusations as he may desire. The summons shall be served upon the accused fourteen days, at least, before the return day thereof. Such appearance may be made in person before the Chairman, or Chairman pro tempore, or by filing an answer in writing with such Chairman.
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141. Service of Summons.—If the residence of the accused be unknown, the Commissioners may proceed to examine the charges and accusation ex parte; but if known and out of the State, a summons shall be sent him, by mail or otherwise, thirty days at least before the time appointed for his appearance. The service and the return thereof shall be according to regulations to be made by the Commissioners, and, when so made, shall be conclusive. 142. Jurisdiction for Discipline.—If the accusation does not come within the provisions of Section 3 of Article VIII of the Constitution, or if it be presented to the Grand Lodge, such accusation and specifications shall be given in charge to the Grand Secretary, who shall, under the direction of the Grand Master, transmit the same to the Chairman, or Chairman pro tempore, of the Board and, if the Board of Commissioners shall determine that the charges require investigation, the Board shall thereafter proceed in the same manner as above required. 143. Failure to Entertain Charges—Appeal.—A Lodge or Brother aggrieved by the failure of a Lodge to determine that the charges require investigation may appeal to the Grand Master, who may, in his discretion, cause the charges to be transmitted to the Chairman, or Chairman pro tempore, of the Board, and the Board shall thereafter proceed in the same manner as above provided. 144. Place for Trial—Who May be Present—Testimony Reduced to Writing—Pledge of Witnesses.—The examination upon the charge and accusation shall be had at some convenient place and time to be designated by the Commissioners, of which due notice shall be given, and no visitors shall be admitted except as counsel or witnesses. Unless otherwise ordered by the Commissioners, the testimony may be taken by the Chairman, or Chairman pro tempore, or any member designated by him, who shall reduce the same to writing, to be submitted to the Board. Witnesses, if Masons, shall testify on their honor as such. Other witnesses shall be pledged to tell the truth upon their obligations and honor as a man and as a citizen before their testimony is taken. 145. Counsel.—Any Brother duly authorized may appear as counsel in support of, or in opposition to, the charges during the taking of the testimony and in the argument of the cause. 146. Record of Proceedings—Punishment—Mandate—Right of Appeal—Time for Sentence.—The Commissioners shall keep a record of their proceedings and upon the completion of the trial shall make their findings of fact and conclusions of law and assess the punishment which may be either reprimand, suspension or expulsion, which said findings of fact and conclusions of law, together with the transcript of the evidence and a declaration of the penalty assessed, shall forthwith be transmitted to the Grand Secretary. Thereupon the Grand Secretary shall, by registered mail, send a mandate, under the seal of the Grand Lodge, to the subordinate Lodge that originally acquired penal jurisdiction over the Brother, setting forth the decision of the Commissioners in the case and shall also send by registered mail to the last known address of the accused Brother a copy of such mandate. The Lodge and the accused Brother shall both have a right of appeal to the Grand Lodge at any time within thirty days from the time of the mailing of the mandate by the Grand Secretary. If no application for a new trial is made and if no appeal is taken from the decision of the Commissioners within the thirty days, the decision shall become final and the Master of the Lodge at its next regular Communication, or as soon thereafter as shall be possible, shall pronounce sentence as provided by the terms of the mandate sent by.the Grand Secretary.
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147. Costs and Expenses for Trial.—As a part of their judgment in each case the Commissioners shall assess the necessary costs and expenses of the case against either the Lodge or the accused as may in their judgment seem just and equitable: Provided, That the Lodge in which the charges shall have been preferred shall be liable for the collection of all costs: And, Provided Further, That said costs shall not include any fees or expenses of the Commissioners. Neither an application for a new trial, nor an appeal to the Grand Lodge shall be considered until all assessed costs shall have been paid. 148. Application for New Trial.—After a trial has terminated* the accused found guilty, and the punishment determined, the accused, upon receiving the announcement of the result as provided herein, may, within ten days thereafter file with the Grand Master ah application in writing for a new trial. If the accused file his application as herein provided sentence shall be suspended while the apphcation for a new trial is under consideration by the Grand Master, and such application while under such consideration shall also toll the statute which provides thirty days' time in which appeal may be taken. The only grounds upon which a new trial may be ordered by the Grand Master are: (1) Accident or surprise against which ordinary prudence could not have guarded, and by reason of which the accused was prevented from having a fair trial; (2) newly-discovered evidence, not cumulative in its nature, material to the defense, and which the accused could not, by the exercise of ordinary diligence, have produced at the trial. The application shall be addressed to the Grand Master and shall set forth with particularity the facts upon which it is based. The unsupported statements of the accused shall not be sufficient, but he may attach to his application any testimony not used at the trial which he may deem competent and material, but such testimony shall be subscribed by the witnesses who may give the same, under the same pledge that they would be required to take at a trial before the Commissioners. A copy of such application and testimony shall be furnished to the Lodge by the accused. Within ten days after such application shall have been filed with the Grand Master, the accuser shall have the right to refute any statement made in such application, or in the testimony attached thereto, by copies of records or the testimony of witnesses given under a pledge as above set , forth. If the Grand Master award a new trial, he shall so notify the Lodge and the accused, and the case shall then stand for trial at the convenience of the Commissioners of Trials. If the Grand Master refuse a new trial, he shall notify the Lodge and the accused of such refusal. 149. Proceedings for Appeal.—If any party be aggrieved by any ruling or proceeding, or by any finding or decision of the Commissioners of Trials, he may appeal therefrom to the Grand Lodge within the time and in the manner following: At least ten days before the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge at which such appeal shall stand for hearing, as hereinafter provided, and within thirty days after such ruling or decision shall have been made, or such proceeding determined, he shall file a notice in writing with the Grand Secretary that he appeals to the Grand Lodge from such a ruling, determination or decision. If such ruling, determination or decision shall have been made more than thirty days before the first day of the next Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge, such appeal shall stand for hearing at such Annual Communication; otherwise it shall stand for hearing at the next ensuing Annual Communication of said Grand Lodge. If the party aggrieved give notice of his intention to appeal, and within thirty
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days file his notice of appeal with the Grand Secretary, the sentence shall be stayed until the appeal has been heard. Upon receiving notice of appeal the Grand Secretary shall transmit the case and all records thereof to the Chairman of the Committee on Jurisprudence. 150. Appeal—Action by Grand Lodge.—Upon appeal the Grand Lodge may affirm or reverse the case, mitigate or set aside the punishment, dismiss the appeal, or remand the action for a new trial or for further consideration. If the case be affirmed or the appeal dismissed, the decision remains in full force. If the case be reversed the reason therefor shall be briefly stated, and the cause shall proceed as may be required by the Grand Lodge. If the Grand Lodge find the punishment to be inadequte or too severe, it shall proceed to fix the same and the Master of the Lodge shall pronounce sentence as ordered. 151. Vacation of Judgment.—At any time within three years from the date of fixing the punishment against a brother for ah offense against the Body of Masonry, the ;iccused may apply to the Grand Master for an order setting aside the judgment and permit him to plead to the charges and specifications upon which he was found guilty and sentenced. Such application shall not be granted by the Grand Master until it shall be made to appear: (1) That the accused had no actual notice or knowledge that such charges and specifications had been filed in such Lodge against him, before judgment nor until within six months next preceding the time of making such application; (2) that the accused has a valid defense to such charges and specifications upon the merits. If the Grand Master in his discretion allow such application, he shall order the judgment to be vacated and shall prescribe a tinfie within which the accused shall appear and plead to the accusation, and thereafter the case shall proceed in the same manner, and subject to the same rules, as in other actions after plea.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON CORRESPONDENCE.
R.-. W.-. ALBERT K . WILSON, chairman, stated the Report on Correspondence had been prepared, printed and would appear in the Annual Proceedings. On motion of R.-. W.-. CHARLES N . FOWLER the report was adopted. REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON CHARTERED LODGES AND LODGES U. D. W.-. ELLSWORTH B . SEWELL, J R . , chairman, presented the following report, which, on his motion, was adopted: To the M.: W.: Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: Your Committee approached its work with some degree of apprehension but found the labors made comparatively easy due to the efficiency and thoroughness of the Grand Secretary's office.
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While it is impossible to review the entire year's correspondence, the matters requiring its attention were laid before it in such shape that the actual work was small. It is the custom of this committee to call to your attention the more noticeable errors occuring in the annual reports. This is not done entirely with the idea of chastisement but in the hope of improvement in subsequent years. Errors occur in all lines of work and may in a measure be excused but indifference such as practiced by some of our Secretaries has reached the point where we feel that unless improvement is shown, some drastic remedy must be applied in the near future. Certain lodges make errors that are particularly noticeable and in order that the offending ones may know of their mistakes, we are listing them as follows: LODGE ANNUAL REPORTS.
Differences in names and initials: Nos. 3, 5, 6, 8, 12, 16, 17, 19, 22, 29, 30, 33, 38, 89, 41, 43, 44, 47, 51, 56, 62, 68, 69, 71, 74, 76, 79, 80, 96, 107, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 117, 118, 120, 122, 132, 138, 141, 142, 145, 147, 150, 151, 155, 164, 167, 169, 170, 175, 177, 180, 193, 195, 196, 199, 202, 206, 209, 212, 213, 215, 222, 223, 234, 235, 236, 243, 256, 258, 267, 270, 273, 278, 284, 292, 296, 307, 322, 329, 336, 340, 341,. 344, 351, 353, 360, 361, 374, 377, 379, 391, 396, 398, 402, 404, 407, 408, 412, 417, 418, 422, 427, 437. Initials or abbreviations used: Nos. 22, 56, 71, 87, 96,119,122,130, 139, 151, 160, 168, 169, 170, 212, 221, 257, 267, 285, 293, 302, 313, 315, 337, 344, 348, 351, 874, 377, 379, 395, 409, 412, 425, 429, 445. Names not in alphabetical order on roll: Nos. 19, 44, 111, 132, 141, 151, 169, 193, 215, 256, 258, 351, 377, 380, 391, 408, 427. Names not in alphabetical order under work: No. 351. Incomplete list of officers: Nos. 87, 115, 181, 428. Filing space omitted: Nos. 79, 162, 291. Seal used: No. 109. Not signed by Secretary: Nos. 67, 162, 278. Special mention: No. 71 took names out of alphabetical order; No. 267, roll out of order; Nos. 351, 377, 408, 410, Secretary does not use middle initial in signing report. It was necessary to resort to telegrams to secure returns from the following lodges: Eldora No. 28, Oketo No. 25, Arcana No. 31, Nickerson No. 43, Xenia No. 47, LaCygne No. 61, Americus No. 109, Muscotah No. 116, Signal No. 141, Farmers No. 166, Mountain Slope No. 186, Blue Hill No. 198, Twin Grove No. 213, Landmark No. 218, Westmoreland No. 257, Morton No. 258, Armourdale No. 271, Unity No. 273, Brainerd No. 280, Horace Nor 352, Waldron No. 377, Coats No. 394, Wilmore No. 412, King David No. 416, Sharon Springs No. 417, Elkhart No. 422.
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Particular difficulty was encountered with Eldora No. 28 and Blue Hill No. 198. The Secretary of No. 198 in response to a telegram asking if his report had been mailed merely answered, " n o " . About all that can be said in his favor is that he paid for the message. The work of the Grand Secretary is growing by leaps and bounds and a very large part of it is occasioned by useless errors and carelessness of incompetent Secretaries. More care should be exercised in the filling of this important office and so far as possible, a brother should be selected who has some office and detail experience. Many of the errors in the annual reports can be traced to failure in keeping the lodge records. We would therefore suggest that t h e District Deputies make a more careful inspection of the Book of Annual Returns, Ledger, and Minute Record and where they find them incomplete, insist that the Secretary bring them up-to-date and present them for further inspection not later than thirty days following their visitation. More promptness in the returning of the annual reports would greatly lighten the work of the Grand Secretary. On January 8th over seventy per cent of the reports were still out. A large number of the reports are received in such shape that they must be returned for correction and although a letter accompanies them requesting their prompt return, the result is very discouraging. Unless this evil can be corrected, we are of the opinion that in the near future it will be practically impossible for the Grand Secretary to prepare an accurate report for our meeting. This is a matter that all District Deputies should impress on the Secretaries and make plain to them the necessity of giving these reports preferred handling. Every set of reports include a request that all remittances be made payable to ALBERT K . WILSON, Grand Secretary, and nearly one-half are received omitting the words, "Grand Secretary". This necessitates the separation of all checks and those improperly made must be endorsed by hand, whereas a stamp endorsement is used on the others. QUESTIONABLE DATES FOR HOLDING ANNUAL ELECTIONS.
It is regrettable that lodges coming under the above subject show a decided increase this year and we recommend that the Grand Secretary be authorized to communicate with these lodges and where it is found that they have violated the Constitution, that they shall apply to the Grand Master for a Special Dispensation, hold another election, and pay the usual fee of $5.00. A few Secretaries failed to enter the date of holding their annual election and we suggest that the Grand Secretary take this up with the Masters and if any elections were held on other than the proper date that they shall be required to secure a Dispensation, hold another election, and pay the usual fee.
446
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
LODGES DENIED REPRESENTATION.
Each year, a certain number of lodges, through indifferent Secretaries, fail to send their annual report within the allotted time and are by law denied representation at our meeting. This list this year is: Arcana No. 31, Doniphan; Mountain Slope No. 186, Oberlin; Westmoreland No. 257, Westmoreland; Unity No. 273, Clearwater; Rob Morris No. 382, Preston; Waldron No. 377, Waldron; Sharon Springs No. 417, Sharon Springs. STATED COMMUNICATIONS.
The following lodges failed to report the date of holding their Stated Communications and are.subject to censure: Halstead No. 46, Halstead; Wamego No. 75, Wamego; Muscotah No. 116, Muscotah; Sedgwick No. 139, Sedgwick; Fraternal No. 170, Linn; Greeley No. 211, Greeley; Stafford No. 252, Stafford; Ashland No. 277, Ashland; Beulah No. 291, Bunker Hill; Oneida No. 323, Oneida; Rob Morris No. 332, Preston; Scammon No. 851, Scammon; Turner No. 425, Turner. ANNUAL DUES.
Your committee have carefully considered the question of the payment of Grand Lodge dues on or before January 10th and feel that this is the most important topic submitted to them for consideration at this Annual Communication, and in our opinion is of vital importance to this Grand Lodge. As stated by the Grand Secretary, with our modern system of paying money through banks and other commercial channels there is absolutely no reason why lodges cannot transmit their per capita taxes and assessments with their annual reports, and when it is remembered that the law granting lodges the privilege of paying their Grand Lodge dues on or before January 20th was established almost twenty years ago and when we had a membership of less than twenty-eight thousand it can be readily understood that with our present membership of over eighty thousand and the natural increase each year, some action must be taken to assist the Grand Secretary in the preparation of the endless tables and reports incidental to the Annual Communication. ~ Your committee therefore heartily recommends that the law be amended providing for the payment of the annual per capita tax and any assessments on or before January 10th. RESTORATION OF CHARTERS.
Your committee notes with interest that a number of lodges have taken advantage of the oft repeated suggestion of the Grand Secretary and filed their charters in the archives of the Grand Lodge for safe keeping.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
447
The certified photographic copies of these charters, nicely framed and ready for placing on the walls in the lodge room, answers all practical purposes, leaving the original where it will be safe from destruction by fire or water, or being misplaced or lost, as in a number of cases in the past. INDEXING PROCEEDINGS.
We note-with unusual interest the report of the Grand Secretary concerning the annual posting up of the index of our Grand Lodge Proceedings. The value of such an index can be more readily appreciated when we take into consideration that this is the Seventieth Annual Communication of this Grand Lodge, during which time sixty-nine Annual Proceedings have been printed, beginning with the year 1856. Therefore, to secure any particular information concerning the transactions of the Grand Lodge in all these years would be a difficult matter without it; in fact this excellent index, which discloses every transaction of the Grand Lodge as well as all other matters of interest, is indispensible. HISTORY OP LODGES.
Your committee wishes to stress the importance of the subject of "History of Lodges" to which attention has been called by the Grand Secretary for a great many years. The proposition contemplates the preparation of an historical record of each lodge, together with a biographical sketch, so far as possible, of the brethren who were instrumental in establishing Masonry in their locality. In addition to this the importance of securing pictures, not only of the building in which the lodges are now located, but those where the Communications were previously held, is again called to the attention of our lodges. Lodges are no exception to the Grand Lodge and each one should strive to make Masonic history, but this can only be done by the individual members and with the hearty cooperation of the lodge as a whole. The first generation who assisted in the formation of the oldest lodges has long since passed off the scene of action, but some of the second and a number of the third generation are alive and not only from their own knowledge but from what they learned from the forefathers of Masonry they can do much toward the preparation of a history of their individual lodges. This work should be followed up by the District Deputy Grand Masters who as a matter of pride in their own districts should see to it that this work is carried forward in each and every lodge in their respective districts. Your committee sincerely hopes that this work will be carried forward as rapidly as possible.
448
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
CARD FORM OF RECEIPTS.
Under the head of "Card Form of Receipts" we notice the Grand Secretary has prepared such a form and during the year a great many of our lodges have ordered this style of receipt for dues. It is understood, however, that lodges are at liberty to use the paper receipts if they prefer them to the card form. It is therefore a question of choice only, leaving it with each lodge to use their best judgment. DATES OP THE ISSUANCE OF CHARTERS. '
It is with no small degree of interest that we call attention to the subject "Dates of the Issuance of Charters" as reported by the Grand Secretary. Your committee realizes that in the earlier days there was not the same degree of importance attached to matters of this kind as there has been of later years and while we realize that the actual dates on which charters were issued by the Grand Lodge are not reflected by the printed Proceedings, yet they were so entered and therefore became the permanent and official record of this Grand Lodge, and it is therefore imperative that we use the printed Proceedings as the basis for establishing dates of the issuance of "Warrants of Constitution. The engrossing of the charters in the earlier days did not, in many instances, reflect the correct date on which they were authorized; therefore, there is a seeming conflict in many cases between the dates as shown in the printed Proceedings of the Grand Lodge and the charters themselves. In order to correct these differences as far as possible, the Grand Secretary has now entered in the permanent records, under the head of "Synopsis of Returns" the dates of all charters as they appear in the printed Proceedings. We therefore recommend that the action of the Grand Secretary be approved. NEW LODGES.
On March 10,1925, a Dispensation was granted to twenty brethren in Kingsdown, Ford County, Kansas. Twenty-five communications have been held, the first on March 20th and the last on December 28th. Six candidates were initiated, passed and raised, and three names were added to the Letters of Dispensation, making a total membership of twenty-nine. Their transcript is in good shape and your committee can see no reason why they should not prosper. We therefore recommend that a Charter be granted and that the lodge be known as Kingsdown Lodge. Fraternally submitted, ELLSWORTH B . SEWELL, J R . , JOSEPH C . HART, FRANK D . MATHIAS,
Committee.
X925-20.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
449
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON JURISPRUDENCE.
M.-. W.-. ELRICK C . COLE, chairman, submitted the following report, which was adopted section by section, except the appeal of FRANK V. HOYT from the action of Mt. Vernon Lodge No. 145, Beloit, which was not approved, and the report was then adopted as a whole with the exception noted above, the amendments to the By-Laws and the proposed amendments to the Constitution receiving the required two-thirds vote: To the M:.W.: Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: Your Committee on Jurisprudence begs leave to submit the following report: Your committee has had under consideration the following appeals and beg leave to make report on same as follows: The appeal of CHARLES S. BIXBY from the sentence of expulsion • rendered on a plea of guilty, by Osage Valley Lodge No. 24, of Osawatomie, Kansas. This appeal only referred to the severity of the punishment inflicted upon Brother BIXBY. The charge was onfe of embezzlement of large sums of money, and by agreement of counsel and the lodge a plea of guilty was entered on one count involving a payment of $1,100.00. Your committee is of the opinion that under the circumstances of the case no less a punishment could have been inflicted in justice to all parties, and they recommend the affirmance of the same. The appeal of F. A. BOMBECK from the conviction and sentence of expulsion by Robinson Lodge No. 159. We have considei-ed the record in full and listened to argument of counsel representing the accused and the accuser, and we can see no reason for any change in the disposition of this case and therefore recommend that it be affirmed. The appeal of WALTER W . SCOTT from Long Island Lodge No. 231. I n this case the accused was charged with having in his possession intoxicating liquors and being intoxicated and entered a plea of guilty. We have carefully examined this record and have had before us brethren representing the lodge as well as the accused, and we have reached the conclusion that, under all the circumstances, the punishment was too severe for the oflFense to which he plead guilty and we would therefore recommend that the sentence of expulsion be set aside and that a sentence of suspension be substituted therefor. We do this because it is our belief that Brother ScoTT has had a lesson which will be of service to him and we desire to give him an opportunity to make good in his community. The appeal of RuB A. THOMAS from the decision and sentence of Mulvane Lodge No. 201, said sentence being of expulsion. We have carefully examined all the files in this case, together with transcript
450
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
of the evidence, and the committee is of the opinion that the trial was in all respects in accordance with law, that the verdict was a proper one, and recommended the affirmance of the punishment inflicted. The appeal of N E L S E . ENGSTROM from sentence of expulsion by Brookville Lodge No. 209. Your committee has carefully examined all the proceedings in this case, together with transcript of the evidence,, and find that the charges were in proper form, trial proceeded in accordance with Masonic law, that the verdict is sustained by the evidence and that the punishment inflicted is proper and therefore recommend the affirmance of the same. Appeal of Rosedale Lodge No. 333 from the acquittal of A. E. BELCHER. Your committee has given this case very careful attention and carefully read the transcript of the proceedings and evidence adduced before the lodge. The charges in this case were violation of the prohibitory liquor law, both as to the possession of intoxicating liquor and the manufacture of the same. The evidence with regard to these charges was plain and conclusive and was practically not denied. The accused had been previously tried in the state court for the same offense and had been found guilty on three counts, sentenced to jail and fined in the City Court of Rosedale. An appeal had been taken from this conviction to the District Court and a trial and conviction had by a jury, and yet in spite of the clear evidence of these facts and of the finding of the liquor in the possession of the accused and the statement by his wife in his presence that she was sorry this had happened, that E D was about to sell what he had on hand and quit the business, the jury, composed of about 200 members of Rosedale Lodge, refused to convict the accused by a vote of about 100 guilty and 100 not guilty. Your committee is of the opinion that this case calls for drastic action on the part of the incoming Grand Master. No lodge should be permitted under the circumstances of this case to take the position of openly standing as the sponsor of a violator of the State law. We recommend that this verdit be set aside and that action to be taken with regard to the discipline which should be given to Rosedale Lodge be left to the sound discretion of the incoming Grand Master, and that a new trial be had at such time and place as the Grand Master directs. Appeal of CHARLES O . MORRIS from the sentence of expulsion by Wichita Lodge No. 99. This case from a strictly legal standpoint is not properly before your committee, as no Notice of Appeal had been filed as provided by Masonic Law until since the opening of this Grand Lodge. But in view of certain -circumstances the committee has felt that it desired to give to the accused every opportunity to be heard, notwithstanding this failure upon his part. It appears that the service of Summons in this case could not be made personally upon the accused within the state of Kansas and the lodge proceeded regularly and in the proper manner to make service by registered letter containing a copy of the charges, mailed to his last known post office address. The accused did not receive these charges in time to appear for trial
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
451
but about the last of December, 1924, or early in January, 1925, he received notice from the Secretary of Wichita Lodge No. 99 of his expulsion by that lodge. This notice was sent in answer to a letter received from the accused enclosing a check for his dues, which check was returned. Some correspondence was had at that time with regard to the conditions surrounding the accused and his relationship to the lodge but he made no active effort for some eight or ten months, although directed to do so by the Secretary of the lodge and the chairman of this Jurisprudence Committee, toward placing himself in a position to be properly heard before your committee. We have carefully examined the evidence in the case in which the accused stood charged with breaking up the family of a brother Master Mason and alienating the affections of his wife. The testimony is clear and positive. At this hearing, the accused appeared personally before the committee and made a statement of his contention with regard to the charges but his statement was not of such character as to cause your committee to feel that any injustice had been done to him by the action of Wichita Lodge No. 99. We therefore recommend that the sentence be affirmed. In this case we desire to say that Brother OTTO R . SOUDBRS, a member of this committee, being a merriber of Wichita Lodge No. 99, did not sit or take any part in the decision. In the matter of the appeal of FRANK V. HOYT from the action of Mount Vernon Lodge No. 145, of Beloit, acquitting W. C. SMITH on charges preferred by the accuser. This case originated before Phillipsburg Lodge No. 184, and an appeal was had from the action of that lodge at the Communication of 1925 of this Grand Lodge. Your Committee on Jurisprudence at that time recommended with regard to said appeal that the verdict of acquittal be set aside and the case remanded for trial at such time and place as the incoming Grand Master should direct. It was the opinion of your committee at that time that a trial had at some lodge outside of the home of the parties interested and away from any prejudice which might exist either for or against the accused might be beneficial for the interest of Masonry. The Grand Master, under the recommendation of the Grand Lodge, directed the trial to be held in Mount Vernon Lodge No. 145, of Beloit. The evidence adduced at this trial was practically the same as that given at the former trial of the case. There were present at the trial 104 members and the vote upon the guilt or innocence of the accused was 48 guilty and 56 not guilty. A large number of witnesses gave testimony and there was evidence which would sustain a verdict of guilty and there was evidence which would sustain a verdict of acquittal. It is impossible for your committee to say whether justice has been fully done in this case or not, but we are convinced that no further trial of the case would bring about any different result, nor do we think any further trial of the case would be in the interests of Masonry. We therefore recommend that the verdict be confirmed. In addition to the above appeals, there has been placed in the hands of the chairman of this committee a letter and request to appeal
452
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
a matter which has heretofore come before this Grand Lodge and under the circumstances this committee feels that it has no jurisdiction to consider or pass upon the same. CONFERRING DEGREES IN LESS THAN THE LAWFUL TIME.
There has again been referred to your committee the subject of conferring degrees in less than the lawful time, both by the Grand Master and Grand Secretary. This same subject has been before your committee a number of times, and it was recommended one year ago that the subject be referred to the incoming Grand Master. As this seems to be a repeated offense by some of our lodges each year your coriimittee would recommend that all lodges which violated the law in this respect during the past year be required to pay the same amount of fees as that called for when a special dispensation is issued waiving time, and that the Grand Secretary be authorized to require the several lodges interested to comply with this recommendation. Your committee believe, however, that if this practice continues a more drastic regulation should be adopted by the Grand Lodge and therefore recommend that that subject be left for consideration at the next Annual Communication. TRIALS IN LODGES.
Your committee have considered that portion of the address of the Grand Master concerning lodge trials and we find that his action was in accord with Masonic custom, and we therefore approve of the same. DISCIPLINE.
The subject of discipline as reported by the Grand Master is in full accord with the laws of the Grand Lodge and the prerogatives of the Grand Master, and we therefore approve of the same. QUESTIONS OP JURISDICTION.
We have also given careful consideration to the question of jurisdiction as submitted by the Grand Master and we find that his action was in full accord with the regulations of this Grand Lodge, and therefore approve of his action. MEMBERS OF DEFUNCT LODGES.
The subject of members of defunct lodges as reported by the Grand Secretary has been referred to your committee, and we find that under Section 62 of the Grand Lodge By-Laws the members as reported by the Grand Secretary are subject to suspension and we so recommend.
19-25-26
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
•
.453
CERTIFICATES FOR TRANSFER—DIMITS.
Your committee have also had under consideration the subject of certificates for transfer—dimits, as reported by the Grand Secretary, and on account of the limited time to give this important matter the attention it so well deserves we would recommend that it be referred to the incoming Committee on Jurisprudence with instructions to submit a report at the next Annual Communication. ILLEGAL SUSPENSIONS.
Your committee have given most careful consideration to that portion of the report of the Grand Secretary concerning illegal suspensions, and in view of the amendment to Section 125 one year ago your committee would recommend that the Grand Secretary be fully authorized to restore to the roll of members all names where the action of the lodge in reporting them suspended was not in full accord with the By-Laws of this Grand Lodge, and the lodges interested be required to pay all back dues on such members.. LODGE FUNDS AND METHOD OF FAYING GRAND LODGE DUES.
Your committee have given most careful thought and consideration to the subjects of "Lodge Funds" and "Method of Paying Grand Lodge Dues" as contained in the Grand Secretary's report, and we believe they are of vital importance to all lodges and deserve consideration at the hands of this Grand Lodge. The natural disposition of the day is to resort to the line of least resistance and it would seem that this, in a measure, is applied in the matter of handling the funds of many of our lodges. A standard form of record books has been adopted by this Grand Lodge for use by all lodges, and until a change is authorized by the Grand Lodge in any of these forms they should be used by all lodges alike. If we grant to one lodge the privilege of selecting their own forms for keeping records, then we must of necessity grant the same privilege to all; hence in a short time our system of uniform accounts would be demoralized, and records kept in a haphazard and careless manner. Further than this, there is great danger in allowing the Secretaries and Treasurers to handle the funds and keep the accounts according to their likings, regardless of the system provided by the Grand Lodge. It is the duty of the Secretary to promptly turn over all funds' to the Treasurer, making proper record on the books provided for this purpose and it is likewise the duty of the Treasurer to receipt for these funds, make proper entry on the standard form of record book and pay them out absolutely on a lodge warrant of the standard form and none other. All such funds should be kept in the name of the lodge and only be paid out on warrants signed by the Secretary and approved by the Master.
454
•
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
The practice of Secretaries and Treasurers depositing lodge funds with their personal accounts, or depositing them in their own name separate from their personal accounts is most dangerous and must not be tolerated longer. In view of conditions as reported by the Grand Secretary your committee would recommend that the incoming Grand Master make a survey of conditions throughout the jurisdiction and take such steps as are necessary in seeing that the Grand Lodge law covering the use of standard forms and record books is strictly enforced.
There has been referred to your committee that portion of the Grand Master's address recommending a change in our laws making the term of Grand Representatives three years instead of five. Your committee are in hearty accord with the recommendation and recommend that By-Law 37 be changed so as to read as follows: 37. Grand Representatives.—The Grand Master may appoint a Grand Representative to reside near each Grand Lodge in correspondence with this Grand Lodge, who shall have the rank of Past Grand Junior Warden of this Grand Lodge, and shall hold his office for three years, and report annually to the Grand Master upon the condition of Masonry in the Grand Jurisdiction to which he is accredited. Your committee have given careful thought to the recommendation o f t h e Grand Secretary that the annual per capita tax and any assessments of lodges shall be paid on or before January 10th instead of January 20th of each year. Your committee realize that the time has come when the Grand Secretary must be allowed all time possible to check the annual reports and make necessary preparations for preparing reports to be submitted to the Grand Lodge annually, and we therefore recommend that Section 95 of the By-Laws be amended to read as follows: 95. Grand Lodge Dues.—Every Lodge working under a warrant of constitution shall pay annually to the Grand Lodge a per capita tax of one dollar ($1.00) on its roll of membership, as the same appears on the Annual Report of the Lodge for the preceding year, and any special assessment. This per capita tax shall not be assessed against the members, but shall be included in the account for annual dues, and be paid out of the General Fund of the Lodge. Any Lodge which neglects or refuses to pay its annual per capita tax or any special assessment on or before the 10th day of January in each year, or which shall fail or neglect to make and transmit to the Grand Secretary its annual report on or before the 10th day of January in each year shall not be entitled to representation in the Grand Lodge following such failure.
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
455
Your committee has had under consideration the subject of "Communications" as reported by the Grand Master, and beg leave to report the following By-Law: 175. Communications Between Lodges.—All comniunications fromi a subordinate Lodge in this Jurisdiction to a Lodge in another Grand Jurisdiction upon the subject-matter of Masonic membership or the conferring of degrees, or upon the subject of any grievance against an individual member or Lodge, shall be sent through the Grand Master or Grand Secretary, and no Lodge in this jurisdiction shall respond tO' a communication from a Lodge or individual in another Grand Jurisdiction upon these subjects without first referring the matter to the Grand Master or Grand Secretary. ALLOWANCES FOR SCHOOLS OF INSTRUCTION AND DISTRICT MEETINGS.
Under the above head your committee recommends that By-Law 52 be amended so as to read as follows: 52. Allowances for Schools of Instruction and District Meetings.— The Lecturers designated by the Grand Master, and no other, shall be allowed eight dollars per diem and their actual and necessary expenses while actually engaged in holding schools of instruction and district meetings and their necessary expenses for transportation; said, per diem and expenses, or either thereof, to be paid by the Grand Lodge.. LODGE TRIALS.
Your committee have had under careful consideration the subjects of lodge trials and courtesies exchanged, as reported by the Special Committee appointed one year ago, and beg leave to submit the following report: The report on lodge trials contemplates an entire change in the method of conducting Masonic trials and in the opinion of your committee the suggested procedure, as outlined in the report, will result in much benefit to the Craft in general and to lodges in which charges, are preferred in particular. We therefore recommend that the report of the committee on this subject be approved, and that the law as submitted by them be the proper form of procedure in all Masonic trials in the future. In order, therefore, to put this into effect, your committee offer the following recommendations: That a new By-Law be adopted, to be known as 34 (a), and to read as follows: 34 (a). Commissioners of Trials.—The Grand Master is annually to appoint a Board of five Past or Present Masters of Lodges, to be styled Commissioners of Trials; but he may in his discretion appoint a Special Board of Commissioners for the trial of any given cause. The first-named of said Boards shall be the chairman thereof, and three members shall constitute a quorum. A single member may take testimony. In the absence of the chairman, the Board shall elect a chairman pro iem,pore.
456
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
We also recommend the adoption of a new By-Law to be known as 176, and to read as follows: 176. Allowances for Commissioners of Trials.—The Commissioners of Trials shall receive for their services the sum of ten dollars per diem and all necessary traveling expenses while actually engaged in the performance of their duties. Said amounts when approved by the Chairman, to be paid out of the General Fund of the Grand Lodge on the order of the Grand Master. That By-Law 58 be amended by eliminating the words "in the absence of the Grand Master, he shall preside at all lodge trials in his district (unless for good cause the Grand Master shall specially appoint some Past Master to discharge such duties), a n d " and will .then read as follows: 58. Dislrid Deputies.—The Grand Master is hereby authorized to appoint not less than fifty District Deputy Grand Masters, who shall be Masters or Past Masters, and residents of their respective districts. The boundaries of such districts and any changes therein, shall be fixed by the Council of Administration. Said District Deputies shall receive no compensation for their services, except that the Lodges visited . shall pay the necessary traveling expenses and provide entertainment. Each District Deputy shall visit each Lodge in his district at least once each year; he shall not be charged with ritualistic instruction, but shall be the personal representative of the Grand Master in his district, and inspector of the work, lodge property and records; he shall also arrange for and hold in his district at least one general meeting each year at such place as may be designated by the Grand Master, to which meeting all the Lodges of his district shall be invited. He shall make report of his doings on.blanks furnished for that purpose, and additional special reports when requested by the Grand Master. The District Deputy Grand Masters shall hold a conference at the Annual Communication of the M.'. W.-. Grand Lodge, unless otherwise ordered by the M.". W.'. Grand Master, and said District Deputy Grand Masters attending the conference shall receive the same mileage allowed the representatives of his Lodge: Provided, however, That they vdo not receive mileage under some other provision of the law. That By-Laws Nos. 130 to 168 inclusive of the present (1913) edition of the Laws of Masonry be and are hereby repealed. That Forms Q, R, S, V, W, X, Y and Z be amended so as to con^ form to the present law. We further recommend that any and all laws or regulations in conflict with this form of procedure of trials be repealed. COURTESIES EXCHANGED.
Your committee have also given careful consideration to the subject of courtesies exchanged, as reported by the Special Committee, and we are of the opinion that this law should be changed so that in all cases where requests are made by one lodge to another for the advancement of candidates, the required four weeks for investigation
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE OF KANSAS.
457
and the spreading of a ballot be dispensed with, and we therefore recommend that the law be changed in accordance therewith. However, as this change requires some amendments to the Constitution it will be necessary that final action be deferred until our next Annual Communication and the Grand Secretary is hereby directed to engross the necessary changes in the Constitution and submit the same to the lodges in the same manner and within the time provided by Section 7 of Article VIII of the Constitution. DECISIONS.
•
Your committee recommends the approval of Decisions 1 t o 7, both inclusive, made by the Grand Master. Fraternally submitted, ELRICK C . COLE, JOHN MCCULLAGH, JOHN M . KINKEL,
CHARLEY B . ERSKINE, OTTO R . SOUDBRS, Committee.
ELECTION OF GRAND OFFICERS.
The hour having arrived for the election of Grand Officers, the M.\ W.'. Grand Master announced the following tellers: JAY B . KIRK, NO. 38; BRYANT E . THURSTON, No. 113; PAUL B . H O F F M A N N , No. 343; WILLIAM J. BAUERLE, NO. 433; ROBERT H . BEACH, No. 12; GLICK FOCKELE, No. 27; RALPH E . THORPE, N O . 289; JAMES H . TRICE, No. 77; EDMUND L . FOULSTON, N O . 267; WILLIAM B . PENNY, N O . 80; WILLIAM E . SAUNDERS, NO, 333; GEORGE HARMAN, N O . 2 1 ; HOMER T . HARDEN, N O . 99; MARION M. MILLER, N O . 26; ROY H . CLOSSEN, NO. 102.
The election resulted in the selection of the following officers: R.-. W.-. JOHN W . NEILSON, N O . 113 R.-. W.'. CHARLES N . FOWLER, NO. 60 R.-. W.-. FERRIS M . HILL, N O . 12 W.'. GEORGE F . BEEZLEY, NO. 93
Grand Master. Deputy Grand Master. _Grand Senior Warden. Grand Junior Warden.
R.-. W.'. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH, N O . 9
Grand Treasurer.
R.-. W.*. ALBERT K . WILSON, N O . 51
Grand Secretary.
458
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
PLACE OF MEETING—1927. W.-. O T T O R . S O U D E R S , on behalf of t h e Masonic Bodies of Wichita, extended a cordial invitation t o t h e M.". W.'. G r a n d Lodge t o hold t h e n e x t Annual Communication in Wichita. On m o t i o n t h e i n v i t a t i o n was accepted.
PRESENTATION OF JEWEL. M.-. W.-. W I L L I A M E A S T O N H U T C H I S O N on behalf of E m e r a l d Lodge N o . 289, Lakin, t h e home lodge of t h e G r a n d M a s t e r , and other neighboring, lodges, presented M.". W.-. C H A R L E S A. L O U C K S with a beautiful P a s t Grand M a s t e r ' s jewel, together with a n engrosssed list of t h e n a m e s of t h e donors.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON FINANCE AND PROPERTY. W.'. E A R L T . P Y L E , c h a i r m a n , s u b m i t t e d t h e following report, which, on his motion, was a d o p t e d : To the M.:W.: Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: To this committee was referred that part of our Grand Master's address under the subject of Charity; the Grand Treasurer's Report, and portions of the Grand Secretary's report as follows: Additional Museum Cases, Steel Transfer Cases, Decorations in the Grand Lodge Building, List of Regular Lodges, Purchase of Bonds, Estimated Revenue and Expenses, all financial exhibits showing receipts and payments t o ' Grand Treasurer; also the report of the Librarian. We approve the expenditures for charity, the purchase of cases for the Museum, steel transfer cases, decorations in the Grand Lodge Building, and the purchase of bonds, and are including an appropriation for the List of Regular Lodges. The committee has made an examination and audit of the accounts of the Grand Lodge and find the reports of the Grand Treasurer and Grand Secretary correct as rendered. Cash on hand at the close of the year was Thirty-five thousand eight hundred sixty-nine dollars and three cents ($35,869.03), which was on deposit in the Merchants
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
459
National Bank, of Lawrence, Kansas, to the credit of R.\ W.'. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH, Grand Treasurer, as evidenced by certificate of deposit signed by V. K. HOOVER, President, which is attached hereto, made a part of this report, and reads as follows: "MERCHANTS NATIONAL
BANK,
LAWRENCE, KANSAS, February 1,
1926.
This is to certify that there is in this bank today, to the credit of W. F. MARCH, Grand Treasurer, A. F. & A M., the sum of thirty-five thousand eight hundred sixty-nine dollars and three cents ($35,869.03). (Signed) V. K. HOOVER,
(Seal)
President."
It is gratifying to report that all lodges within this GrandJurisdiction made their 1925 remittances before the close of the Grand Secretary's books. The Grand Secretary's untiring efforts have, at last, brought the desired results and it is hoped that Schedule " B " may be entirely eliminated from future reports of the Grand Secretary. BONDS.
Bonds amounting to sixty-two thousand seven hundred dollars ($62,700.00), with all unmatured interest coupons attached are in the hands of the Grand Treasurer, and were inspected by the committee. A recapitulation of the bond account is as follows: Bonds on hand March 1, 1925 Purchased during 1925...
$ 58,200 00 6,000 00
Total chargeable to Grand Treasurer $64,200 00 Spring Township, Harper County, bonds 13 and 14, paid in 1925 $ 1,000 00 School District No. 79, Greenwood County, bond No. 13, paid in 1925 500 00 Bonds in the hands of the Grand Treasurer, close of 1925 account 62,700 00 $64,200 00 A total of two thousand six hundred ninety-one dollars fifty-three cents ($2,691.53) interest, accrued on the bond investment for the year ending December 31, 1925. This amount was collected and properly accounted for.
460
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
DISPENSATIONS.
Eighty-two Special Dispensations were issued during the year, thirty-four of which were issued without fee, and fifty at a fee of five dollars each. ' -. Total Revenue from dispensations $250 00 One dispensation was issued to establish a new lodge at Kingsdown. Revenue from this source $20 00 KBPOET OP LIBRARIAN.
Our Grand Secretary, who is likewise Librarian, submits an interesting report, showing in detail a list of books added to the Grand Lodge Library during the past year, and includes with this report a reference to the valuable museum department which in importance is • scarcely second to the Library itself. One cannot help but be impressed with the importance of the Grand Lodge Library and Museum when viewing this wonderful collection of Masonic knowledge contained in the thousands of publications. Masonic histories, digests, and works along these lines. In support of many important historical features recorded in books and manuscripts, are almost endless Masonic relics, jewels and decorations of various kinds, which, increase in value as time advances and one cannot help but realize, after those of us who are now making Masonic history in this jurisdiction will have passed away, this wonderful collection will be prized beyond measure by those who follow us. We note with interest the recommendations of our Librarian to purchase a complete set of the National Geographic Magazine. So far as our Librarian was able to ascertain there is but one complete set of this work obtainable and that has been assembled by the National Geographic Society, and at the request of our Librarian is being held until after this Communication of the Grand Lodge. The work consists of forty-nine volumes and the price is two thousand dollars, which includes the cost of binding. In view of the fact that during the past twenty-five years the Grand Lodge has spent, not to exceed four hundred dollars on the purchase of books and other publications for our Grand Lodge Library, and prior to that time a very small amount, if any, and also in view of the fact that this is the only complete set of this publication available, we recommend an appropriation of two thousand dollars for this purpose.
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
461
REVENUE AND EXPENSES.
Revenue. The estimated revenue from all sources for the ensuing • year is $44,335 50 Expenses. The expenses for which we recommend appropriations at this Communication are as follows: Assistant to Grand Secretary $3,600 Committee allowance (By-Law 49) 150 Expenses Grand Lodge Communication 500 Expenses and per diem of Lecturer 1,500 Grand Secretary's incidentals 1,200 Grand Treasurer's bond premium 87 Grand Secretary's bond premium 10 Grand Master's contingent fund 1,000 Grand Master's salary 800 Grand Treasurer's salary 100 Grand Secretary's salary 1,800 Grand Secretary's honorarium 1,200 Grand Master's apron 61 Grand Officers' portraits 50 Historical Registry and Abstract 300 Library furniture, binding, etc 1,000 List of Regular Lodges 160 Mileage to Representatives (By-Law 51) 2,662 Mileage and Expenses (By-Laws 49 and 50) 1,388 Minor Salaries (By-Law 48) : 150 Office and Library Building... 2,500 Printing Annual Proceedings 3,200 Postage and express 600 Private Secretary to Grand Master 600 Salary Chairman Committee on Correspondence (By-Law 49) 300 Stationery and Printing 800 Stenographic and Clerical Help 8,000 Taxes 3,000 Special Appropriation, co,mplete set of National Geographic Magazine 2,000
00 00 00 00 00 50 00 00 00 00 00 00 50 00 00 00 75 87 15 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00
462
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
PROPERTY.
The Grand Lodge property is in first class condition. Elsewhere in this report we made mention of the purchase of additional equipment and the redecoration made during the year, and as the major portion of the credit for the excellent condition of our Grand Lodge Building is due to our Grand Secretary, it would be complimentary to our Right Worshipful Brother if each and every brother in attendance at this Communication would show his appreciation by making a visit to the building. Fraternally submitted. EARL T . PYLE, HOMER B . FINK, MOSES H . COLE,
LUCIAN L . CONSTANT, RICHARD W . EVANS, Committee.
1925-20.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
463
INSTALLATION.
M.-.W.-. PERRY M . HOISINGTON, assisted by M.-.W.-. WILLIAM EASTON HUTCHISON, as Grand Marshal, duly installed the following Grand Officers: M.-.W.-. JOHN W . NEILSON St. John's Lodge jSo. 113, Concordia.
Grand Master
R.-. W.-. CHARLES N . FOWLEH Deputy Grand Master Salina Lodge No. GU, Salina. R.-. W.-. FERRIS M . HILL Grand Senior Warden Emporia Lodge No. 12, Emporia. R.-. W.-. GEORGE F . BEEZLBY Grand Junior Warden Girard Lodge No. 03, Girard. R.-. W.-. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH Acacia Lodge No. 0, Lawrence.
Grand Treasurer
R.-. W.-. ALBERT K . WILSON Orient Lodge No. hi, Topoka.
Grand Secretary-
The M.-.W.-. Grand Master announced the following appointive Grand Officers: Bro. and Rev. FRED E . BROOKS Grand Chaplain Sniitliton Lodge No. 1, (residence. Marysvilie).
W.-. JAY B . KIRK
Grand Senior Deacon lola Lodge No. 3S, lola.
W.-. GLICK FOCKELE.... Grand Junior Deacon Nooslio Lodge No. 27, Le Roy. W.'. ALVA L . SWEARINGEN Kaw Lodge No. 272, Kansas City.
Grand Marshal
W.-. WILLIAM B . PENNY Grand Sword Bearer Zeredatlia Lodge No. 80, Cottonwood Falls. W.-. CLARENCE R . ATEN Grand Senior Steward .St. Bernard Lodge No. 222, Dodge City. *W.'. FRANK D . SPERRY .....Grand Junior Steward Ellswortii Lodge No. 14C, Ellswortli. W.-. HOMER T . HARDEN Wichita Lodge No. 0!), Wicliita.
Grand Pursuivant
W.-. W. AMER BURNETT Mountain Slope Lodge No. 180, Oberlin.
Grand Tyler
*Not present at time of Installation and tlierefore not installed.
464
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
STANDING COMMITTEES.
The M.'. W/. Grand Master announced the appointment of the following committees for the ensuing year: On Credentials.—ROBERT H . MONTGOMERY, N O . 63, Oswego; PHILIP EUGENE STOTLER, No. 3 (residence, R. F. D. No. 2, Bethel); ROY H . CLOSSBN, N O . 102, Coflfeyville; RICHARD W . EVANS, N O . 222,
Dodge City; GEORGE W . MCCLELLAND, NO. 17, Topeka. On Reports of Grand Officers.—BEN S . PAULEN, N O . 95, Fredonia; JOSEPH D . FELL, NO. 113, Concordia; FRANK E . DAVIS, NO. 3 (residence, Kansas City, Mo.); DwiGHT E. COOK, N O . 16, Manhattan; FRANK C . CURRY, NO. 12, Emporia. On Finance and Property.—EARL T . PYLE, No. 134, Clay Center; HOMER B . F I N K , No. 225, Topeka; MOSES H . COLE, N O . 206,.Harper; LUCIAN L . CONSTANT, N O . 173, Belle Plaine; RICHARD H . CRAVENS, No. 60, Salina. On Jurisprudence.—ELRICK C . COLE, N O . 15, Great Bend; JOHN MCCULLAGH, N O . 194, Galena; JOHN M . KINKEL, NO. 140 (residence, Topeka); CHARLEYB. ERSKINE, NO. 283, Cimarron; OTTO R . SOUDERS, N O . 99, Wichita. On Chartered Lodges and Lodges V. D.—ELLSWORTH B . SEWELL, JR., N O . 51, Topeka; CLARENCE E . FARNSWORTH, NO. 331, Hoisington; JOHN DAVIS, NO. 129, Belleville. On Correspondence.—ALBERT K . WILSON, NO. 51, Topeka. On Necrology.—HENRY
WALLENSTBIN, N O . 303, Wichita.
SPECIAL COMMITTEE. On History of Grand Lodge.—ALBERT K . WILSON, NO. 51, Topeka; BENJAMIN F . H E I S , N O . 2, Leavenworth;
PAUL M . MARTIN, N O . 1,
Highland. COMMISSIONERS OF TRIALS. CHARLES N . FOWLER, N O . 60, Salina; RICHARD E . BIRD, N O . 303,
Wichita; JAMES A. CASSLER, No. 172, McPherson; FRANK D. SPERRY, No. 146, Ellsworth; J. FORREST AYRES, No. 232, Greenleaf.
GRAND
1925-26.
LODGE
OF
465
KANSAS.
VOTE OP THANKS.
M.-. W.'. ELRICK C, COLE, moved that a vote of thanks be extended the brethren of Topeka for the courtesies shown, and for the lunches and meals prepared for the visiting brethren, and to the Scottish Rite Bodies for the use of the dining-room in the Temple. Motion was adopted. READING OF JOURNAL. The journal was then read by Brother LEON L . CouSLAND, Patmos Lodge No. 97, official stenographer, and approved. CLOSING
CEREMONIES.
The M.-.W.-. Grand Master then closed the M.-.W.-. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas in Ample Form.
Grand Master.
ATTEST:
JUA/J^.^^^^^^^ Grand Secretary.
466
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
MASONIC DISTRICTS, AND LIST OF DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTERS FOR 1926. .
District No. 1 District No. 2 District No. 3
PAUL M . MARTIN RAYMOND A. N E V I N *JOHN H . CLARKE
Highland Hiawatha Leavenworth
District No. 4
*ARMON P. VAUGHN
Kansas City
District No.
5
District No. 6 District No.
7
District No. 8 District District District District District District District District District District District District District District District District District
No. No. No. No^ No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No: No.
9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25
HERBERT E . JULIEN
A. DAVID FOX CHARLES F . TRINKLE
FRED ROY ALFORD EDGAR T . FOSTER J O H N F . WYATT A. PHILLIP LAPHAM CHARLES P. BRADING GEORGE 0 . FOSTER EDWARD C . STARIN JAMES A. CAMPBELL EDWIN C. EAGLES ENOCH E . BROOKS.: LEWIS W . DAVIS IRVIN L . OTTO JAMES M . LAYTON *WILLIAM' P. ROOT GEORGE BURNS CLICK FOCKELB ....JAMBS H . BEEGLE *STEPHBN A. D. GEAUQUE
Olathe
Louisburg LaCygne
Fort Scott Colony Galena Wetmore Atchison Lawrence Holton Humboldt Thayer Peru Elk City Marysville Irving Topeka Carbondale LeRoy Neodesha Manhattan
District No. 26
EMIL KRATOCHVIL
District District District District
ORVAL E . MOON EDMUND L . FOULSTON IVAN E . GENTRY JAMES W . WERTS
Emporia Moline Winfield Republic
ROY H . WISE ROY G . SHEARER
Plainville ...Abilene
No. No. No. No.
27 28 29 30
District No. 31 District No. 32 District District District District District District
No. No. No. No. No. No.
38 34 35 36 37 38
JAMES A. CASSLBR HARRY K . LORENZ CLAUDE O . CONKEY *EDGAR W . INGRAM PERRY E . MILLER DAVID A. NYWALL
District No. 39
GUY W . BROWN
District No. 40 District No. 41
CHARLES S. LOCKLIN CHESTER E . LYMAN
Clay Center
McPherson El Dorado Newton Wichita Wellington Formoso
Beloit Marion Hutchinson
GRAND
1925-26.
LODGE
OF
District No. 42 District No. 43
WILBUR M . BENBFIEL LEWIS G . JENNINGS
District No. 44
WILLIAM C . ROGERS
District No. District No. District No. District.No. District No.
45 46 47 48 49
District No. 50 District District District District
No. No; No. No.
51 52 53 54
467
KANSAS.
Kingman Anthony-
Long Island
JOSEPH E . BREAKEY JOSEPH H . LEISENRING .....CLARE C . CAVIN RALPH C . STEINER JAMES T . FOWLER
;
Downs Ellis LaCrosse Lyons Arcadia
RoscoE E. PETERSON
Larned
BENJAMIN H . FLYR JOSEPH C . HART.... CLARENCE M . CROSBY R. NELSON LONG
Oakley Lakin St. Francis Hoxie
Kensington
District No. 55
GUY R . CURRIER
District No. 56
JAMES G . BENNETT
District No. 57.... District No. 58
RUEL V. BUTCHER GILBERT C . LENZ
Cimarron Scott City
District No. 59 District No. 60
JOHN B . FLEMING BARLUS ROMSTEDT
Hamilton Ottawa
District No. 61
EARL W . RAY
District District District District District District District District District District District District District
No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No.
62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74
District No. 75
Haviland
Wilsey
HARVEY B . BRBNEMAN ELMER S. NANCE J. HARRY RILEY BERT WILLIAMS GEORGE H . CLASEN GEORGE H . MOSS PAUL B . HOFFMANN THOMAS R . CAUTHERS EDWARD S. IRWIN CARL G . EDDY *CHESTER A. BUELL JOHN W . SCHAFER JAMES B . PORTER
JAMES H . TRICE
Macksville Oswego Winchester Havensville Washington Miltonvale Holyrood Ashland Liberal Colby Topeka Eskridge Hugoton
Medicine Lodge
SPECIAL ADDRESSES.
No.
*Postoffice Addresses.
3 214 Pottawatomie St. 4 4161 Cambridge. 21 2808 Ohio. 25 Box 86, K. S. A. C. 36 403 Kaufman Bldg. 72 Care Missouri Pacific Ry. Co.
468
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
LIST OF DISTRICTS. DISTRICT NO.
Location. White Cloud Highland Troy...., Wathena Severance Bendena
DISTRICT NO.
Hiawatha Hamlin Morrill Powhattan Horton Sabetha Robinson
DISTRICT N O .
1.
Name. White Cioud Smithton Troy Wathena Severance Bendena
No. 78 1 55 64 313 440
2.
Hiawatha Hamlin Morrill Powhattan Horcon Sabetha Eobinson
35 185 373 363 326 162 159
DISTRICT NO. 3.
Leavenworth ...Leavenworth .... 2 Leavenworth King Solomon... 10 Leavenworth Hiram....68 Ft. Leavenworth ..Hancock 311 Lansing Nine Mile 49 Boling Boling 365 Easton Easton 45 DISTRICT No.
4.
Kansas City Wyandotte 3 Kansas City Armourdale 271 Kansas City Kaw 272 Kansas City *E. E. Sherman..369 Kansas City Ben Hur 322 Kansas City Rosedale 333 Kansas City West Gate 43S. Bonner Springs Bonner Springs 360 Wliite Church Delaware 96 Piper Piper 385 Turner Turner 425 *Roger B. Sherman. DISTRICT No.
Olathe Gardner Edgerton Shawnee Lenexa Spring Hill..... Overland Park Stanley
5.
Olathe 19 Gardner 65 Palestine 127 Shawnee 54 Lenesa .-...135 Spring Hill 50 Overland Park..436 Stanley.. 444 Peace Paola Osage Valley Equity...!......!
DISTRICT No.
LaCygne Pleasanton Mound City Blue Mound Xenia Parker
No. 108 8 92 216 398 210 28 115 268
9.
Lane 339 Greeley 211 Delphian 44 Avon 305 Olive Branch ..,,212 Kincald 338 Richmond 426
DISTRICT N O .
Scammon Columbus Galena Baxter Springs Weir
10.
Scammon Prudence Galena Baxter Black Diamond
351 100 194 71 274
DISTRICT N O . 11.
Whiting Netawaka Wetmore Centralia Corning GolT
.Whiting Volar Star.. Wetmore.... Home Nemaha Gofl DISTRICT N O .
Doniphan Effingham Muscotah Atchison Atchison Huron Potter
243 37 24 131 61 88 33 286 47 341
Circlevilie Holton Soldier Mayetta Hoyt Denison
31 48 116 5 158 72 4
13.
Lawrence Acacia De Soto Linwood Doric Palmyra Henri Perry Locompton
DISTRICT N O .
.250 .130 ,. 5389 13 430
12.
Arcana Mackey Muscotah Washington Active Huron Kickapoo DISTRICT N O .
7
LaCygne Eureka Mound City Lotus Xenia Parker.,..
.'.
8.
Name. Memphis Rising Sun Devon Hiattville Hepler Fulton Eldora Excelsior Bourbon
DISTRICT No.
Lane Greeley Garnett Westphalia Colony Kincaid Richmond
Lawrence Lawrence De Soto Linwood. Eudora Baldwin Tonganoxie Perry Lecompton
DISTRICT NO. 6.
Louisburg Paola Osawatomie Fontana
Location. Garland Fort Scott Devon Hiattville Hepler Fulton Mapleton Uniontown Bronson
6 9 40 241 83 23 190 415 420
14.
Circleville Holton Soldier Mayetta Hoyt Denison
20 42 240 393 ' 327 372
GRAND
1925-26.
DISTRICT N O .
Location. Moran La Harpe Ida Humboldt .Savonburg
DISTRICT N O .
DISTRICT N O .
Sedan Elgin C e d a r Vale Edna Cotfeyvllle • Caney Tyro Independence Cherryvale Elk City
91 25 259 354 234 39 323
20.
85 169 112 67 320
21.
Topeka Orient SUoam Auburn.... Dover Wakarusa M a p l e Hill
DISTRICT N O .
Lyndon Osage City Burlingame Carbondale Overbrook Scranton
19.
Sutton Blue R a p i d s B l u e Valley ...Frankfort Vermillion...
DISTRICT N O .
Topeka Topeka Topeka Auburn Dover Wakarusa M a p l e Hill
IS.
Marysville Oketo Seattle Summerfleld Axtell Seneca Oneida......:
DISTRICT N O .
Waterville Blue E a p i d s Irving Frankfort Vermillion
136 350 355
Edna .345 Keystone.. .102 Caney ..324 ...Tyro ..386 Fortitude 107 Cherryvale........l37 Carson 132
DISTRICT NO.
Marysville Oketo Seattle Summerfleld Axtell Seneca Oneida
Location. Yates Center N e o s h o Falls Le Roy Grldley Burlington
17 51 225 32 138 402 370
Fredonla..New Albany F a l l River Coyville Neodesha Altoona Benedict Buffalo
DISTRICT N O .
DISTRICT N O .
Howard E l k Falls Longton Moline Grenola
'.
Republic Scandla Belleville Narka Cuba Munden
122 134 296 334 396
27.'
12 109 193 395 80 152 335
28.
Hope Meridian Longton Moline Canopy.;:
DISTRICT N O .
Wlnfleld..... Burden Dexter M a p l e City. A r k a n s a s Oity
235 75 16 344 166
26.
Clifton Clay C e n t e r Highland Oak Hill Wakefield
Ion. 126 26 267 248
29.
Wlnfield Clinton Dexter Maple City Crescent
DISTRICT N O .
101 141 79 70 62 407
25.
Emporia Emporia Americus Amerlcus Hartford Hartford SaftordvlUe SaffordvlUe C o t t o n w o o d Falls..Zeredatha Lebo Lebo Allen Allen
22.
Euclid Signal Corinthian Carbondale Rldgeway Scranton
24.
Garfield Wamego Lafayette Ashlar Farmers
DISTRICT N O .
Clifton Clay Center Green O a k Hill Wakefield
No. 144 S2 27 314 66
C o n s t e l l a t i o n .... 95 New Albany 81 Greenwood 163 .Coy^'ille 57 Harmony 94 Altoona 118 .....Benedict 403 BufEalo 379
DISTRICT N O .
L e o n a r d vlUe Wamego Manhattan Riley Randolph
23.
Name. Gllead Tuscan Neosho Hebron Burlington
DISTRICT N O .
76 239 103 416 149
17.
Vesper Olive Chautauqua
DISTRICT N O .
DISTRICT N O .
No. 245 325 38 29 315
16.
Erie Urbana Cedar King David Thayer
469
KANSAS.
15.
Name. Marmaton La Harpe lola; Pacific Virginia
Erie Urbana Chanute Chanute Thayer
LODGE OF
110 233 156 342 133
30.
Republic Lebanon Belleville Narka Cuba Munden
123 221' 129 349 362 12&
470
PROCEEDINGS
OF
THE
DISTRICT N O . 31.
Location. Lincoln Sylvan Grove Lucas Luray Natoma PlainviUe Codell
DISTRICT No.
Newton Halstead Peabody Florence Burrton White Water Wichita Wichita Wichita Wichita Mulvane Clearwater Valley Center Cheney Moimt Hope Sedgwick
:Randall Jewell Mankato Burr Oak Formoso Salem Oak DISTRICT N O .
Minneapolis Barnard Delphos Glasco Simpson Belolt Scottsville
304 11 87 178 336 228 287
39.
Minneapolis Saltville Delphos Glasco Sincerity Mt. Vernon ...ScottsvlUe
143 59 202 292 214 145 249
DISTRICT N O . 40.
74 439 151 223 97 30 434 401
35.
Newton..., Halstead.. Halcyon.-.. Advance.. Burrton..., Brainerd..
DISTEICT No.
197 251 172 276 397 346 353
34.
Mystic Tie Beaumont Douglass Joppa Patmos Towanda Rosalia Latham
No. 173 150 157 165 203 255 269 285
DISTRICT N O . 38.
Randall Jewell Mankato Burr Oak Formoso Esbon Lebanon
33.
Canton Galva McPherson Windom Lindsborg Moundridge Marquette
DISTRICT No.
Augusta.... Beaumont Douglass Leon El Dorado Towanda Rosalia Latham
Location. Name. Belle Plaine Belle Plaine Wellington Wellington South Haven Haven Oxford Oxford Caldwell Sumner Milan Milan Conway Springs....Mistletoe Argonia Argonia
32.
Benevolent 98 Bennington 180 Enterprise 437 Union 7 Sallna.... 60 Solomon City...105
DISTRICT No.
Canton Galva McPherson Windom Lindsborg Moundridge Marquette
DISTRICT N O . 37.
Name. No. Lincoln 154 Sylvan Grove....359 Blue Hill 198 Luray 153 Natoma 390 Paradise 290 Codell 418
DISTRICT N O .
Abilene Bennington Enterprise Junction City Salina Solomon
February,
..142 ..•46 ..120 ..114 ..182 ..280
36.
Sunflower 86 Wichita 99 Albert Pike 303 BestorG.Brown 433 Mulvane 201 Unity 273 Valley Center....364 Morton 258 Mount Hope 238 Sedgwick 139
Gypsum Herington Delavan Hope White City Marion Burdlck
Gypsum City....328 Kansas 307 Delavan 375 Cyrus 288 White City 380 Center..... 147 Burdick 429
DISTRICT N O . 41.
Arlington Turon Hutchinson Hutchinson Haven Nlckerson Pretty Prairie
Cable 299 Turon 358 Reno 140 Hutchinson 445 Friendship 208 Nickerson 43 Pretty Prairie....428
DISTRICT N O . 42.
Kingman Norwich Splvey Zenda Cunningham
Nlnnescah Norwich..... Splvey Zenda .Cunningham.
230 319 347 378 427
DISTRICT N O . 43.
Anthony Harper Attica Waldron Freeport Bluff City
Anthony... Harper Attica Waldron... Freeport..., Stohrville..
.200 .206 .262 .377 .389 .368
GRAND
1925-26.
DISTRICT N O .
LODGE OF
DISTRICT N O .
44.
Location. Name. No. Almena Naphtali 310 Long Island L o n g Island 231 Norton Norton 199 Norcatur Norcatur 317 Oberlin. M o u n t a i n Slope 186 Jennings..... Jennings 360 Lenora Lenora 181 DlSTKICT N o . 45. Glen E l d e r Glen E l d e r ,.294 Cawker City Cawker City 125 Downs Downs 204 Osborne Saqui 160 Alton Occidental 207 Stockton Newahcuba 189 DISTRICT N O .
Russell Hays Ellis B u n k e r Hill Wa-Keeney
DISTRICT N O .
L a Crosse McCracken Rush Center Ness City
47.
48.
.Geneseo 361 Frederick 337 C o r n e r Stone ...219 Alden 308 Sterling 171 Royal 192 Chase 247
DISTRICT N O .
Girard Cherokee Pittsburg Mulberry Arcadia Arma Walnut Farlington
DISTRICT N O .
DISTRICT N O .
15 167 217 331 424
Dighton Scott C i t y Leoti Horace
50.
283 222 38» 413 282 431 447
58.
Barney Anthem Leoti Horace DISTRICT N O .
2'.);f 2(),5332: 370. 399409' 39*
57.
Preston St. B e r n a r d Spearville Ensign Alpha Minneola Kingsdown
DISTRICT N O .
Eureka Madison Severy Hamilton Climax Toronto
281 348 414
55.
Kiowa Kilwinning R o b Morris G r a n d View Mullinville Haviland Coats '
DISTRICT N O .
Cimarron Dodge City Spearville Ensign Jetmore Minneola Kingsdown
51.
54.
Gaylord ;...183 Kirwin 175 Logan 264 Western S t a r ....174 Phillipsburg 184 ....Kensington 40,1
DISTRICT N O .
Greensburg Pratt Preston Bucklin MuUinville Haviland Coats
93 119 187 261 329 408 229 124
Oakley 253 Wallace 318 Gove City 302 Grainfleld 381 Quinter 410 Sharon S p r i n g s . 4 1 7
53.
Millbrook Hoxie Morland
Gaylord Kirwin Logan Smith Center Phillipsburg Kensington
No. ....316. 30O 28924a 432^
Atwood 104 McDonald 383 Saint Francis ...404
DISTRICT N O .
Hill C i t y Hoxie Morland
52.
Name. Coolidge Syracuse Emerald Tyrian Deerfleld
DISTRICT N O .
Atwood McDonald Saint Francis
50.
G r e a t Bend Larned EUinwood Hoisington Claflin
DISTRICT N O .
Oakley Wallace Gove Grainfleld Quinter Sharon Springs
Location. Coolidge Syracuse Lakin Garden City Deerfleld
49.
Girard Cherokee Pittsburg Mulberry Arcadia Arma Vulcan Godfrey
Great Bend Lamed Ellinwood Hoisington Claflin
177 195 297 291 148
.La Crosse 330 McCracken 58 Walnut City 215 W a l n u t Valley ..191
DISTRICT N O .
Geneseo Frederick Little R i v e r Alden Sterling Lyons Chase
46.
Russell Hays Apollo Beulah Wa-Keeney
471
KANSAS.
279 284 340 352
59.
Fidelity Madison Twin Grove Hamilton Climax Woodson
100 190 213 301 411 121
472
PROCEEDINGS DISTRICT NO.
LocaHon. WellsvUle Ottawa Ottawa Pomona Melvem • Williamsburg Waverly Quenemo
DISTRICT NO.
Oswego Altamont Chetopa Parsons M o u n d Valley McCune
64.
• 14 21 84 236 256 266
65
66.
Frontier Fraternal Dirlgo Greenleaf.
DISTRICT N O .
Concordia Clyde Jamestown M i l t o n vale
. 63 . 69 . 73 .117 218 237
Havensville 34 Onaga 188 Westmoreland .257 Emmett 387 Fostoria 392
DISTRICT No.
Washington Linn Haddam Greenleaf.
220 252 254 371 391 179
63.
Oskaloosa Valley FaUs Jefferson Meriden Lyra M t . Zion
DISTRICT No.
.Havensville •Onaga ^Westmoreland Hmmett Fostoria
62.
Adams Altamont.. Chetopa Parsons Landmark Temple
DISTRICT No.
Oskaloosa Valley Falls. Winchester Merlden .McLouth Nortonville
61.
Lewis Stafford Ionic M a c k s ville SyUia Mt. Moriah
104 170 226 232
Location. Ellsworth Brookvllle Wilson Holyrood
113 .176 227 242
68.
Name. '...;.Ellsworth Brookville.... Samaria Holyrood DISTRICT NO.
Ashland Coldwater Protection Wilmore
DISTRICT No.
Meade Liberal Plains
DISTRICT No.
277 295 384 412
70.
Webb.., Fargo.. Plains..
Colby Goodland Selden Rexford Kanorado
No. 146 209 298 343
69.
Ashland Comanche Protection Wilmore
..275 .300 .367
71.
St. Thomas........306 Goodland 321 Selden 423 Rexford 442 Kanorado 443 DISTRICT N O .
72.
Silver L a k e Lake 50 St. M a r y s Pottawatomie.... 52 T o p e k a ( N o r t h ) . . . . G o l d e n Rule 90 Boss ville Hesperian Ill Delia Delia 419 DISTRICT No.
Alma Eskridge Alta Vista Dwight Harveyville
DISTRICT N O .
Sublette Hugoton Elkhart Ulysses. Johnson Satanta
73.
Alma Eminence !....Alta Vista Dwlght Harveyville
;
161 205 357 374 421
74.
Santa Fe Hugoton Elkhart Ulysses Johnson Satan ta
DISTRICT N O .
67.
St. J o h n ' s Prairie Queen.. Jamestown Miltonvale
February,
DISTRICT N O .
No. 356 18 400 41 22 224 244 270
Council G r o v e .. 36 ParkerviUe 168 Wllsey 382
D I S T R I C T No.
Lewis Stafford St. J o h n M a c k s ville Sylvia Kinsley
60.
Name. Wellsville Ottawa Melody McKlnley Melvem Anchor Waverly ....Quenemo
DISTRICT No.
Council Grove Parkerville Wilsey
OF THE
312 406 422 435 441 446
75.
Medicine Lodge....Delta 77 Lake City M e d i c i n e Valley260 Eazelton Charity 263 Kiowa Cosmos 278
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LODGE OF
KANSAS.
489
490
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
COMPLETE SUMMARY FOR 1925.
Number of lodges "working under charter, 1925 Number of lodges chartered
446 1
Number of lodges working under charter, 1926
447
Number members December 31, 1924
78,041
Increase. Number Number Number Number Number Number Number
initiated passed raised admitted restored omitted last report members lodges U. D
Number Number Number Number Number
dimitted died suspended expelled erroneously reported
•..,.3,664 3,599
'
3,562 878 165 7 23=4,635
Decrease.
Net gain Number members December 31, 1925
1,103 839 546 11 3=2,502 2,133 80,174
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
491
E X P E L L E D , 1925. McKinley Lodge No. 41.—LEONARD W . STREIT, May 12, 1925. Golden Rule Lodge No. 90.—JOHN W . WALDRON, September 25,1925. Patmos Lodge No. 97.—WILBUR R . BOCARD, November 5, 1925. Frontier Lodge No. 104.—JOHN H . SPARKS, December 8, 1925. Halcyon Lodge No. 120.—JOHN H. BEIGHLE, JR., November 16, 1925. Crescent Lodge No. 133.—VICTOR E . CREIGHTON, October 7, 1925. Anthony Lodge No. 200.—ARTHUR J . HARRISON, February 2, 1925. Sumner Lodge No. 203.—COE F . ROBERTSON, February 19, 1925. Lewis Lodge No. 220.—LORENZO P. WEAVER, September 9, 1925.
SUSPENDED FOR UNMASONIC CONDUCT, 1925. Wyandotte Lodge No. 3.—NATHAN A. YADON, December 12, 1924. Altamont Lodge No. 69.—ALBERT W . FOSTER, January 10, 1925. Fortitude Lodge No. 107.—CLEON J. MOON, January 30, 1925. Newton Lodge No. 142.—HOWARD L . PARKHURST, June 10, 1925. Russell Lodge No. 177.—ADAM G . MAI, June 16, 1925. Mulvane Lodge No. 201.—RUE A. THOMAS, March 4, 1925. Joppa Lodge No. 223.—FRANK MATHENY, October 12, 1925. Long Island Lodge No. 231.—JOHN F . SKELTON, October 1, 1925;
23 59 71
98 308 335 161 310 09 357 207 118 109 200 329 285 133 299 408 277 5 158 262 164 32 74 234
No.
Baxter Springs..
Axtell
Arkansas City....
Alta Vista
Allen
Location.
Saltville
Mystic Tie Axtell
Washington
Cable
Allen
Name of Lodge.
Stated Communications.
Cherokee
Butler
Crawford Clark
. Crawford
Wabaunsee....
Olin R. Strowig Earl S. Brown *Perry L. Putnam Ferdinand C. Stuewe Orvillo C. Timnions EarlE. Todd Ewald E. Schade *Otto H. Fritsche
Masters.
•Samuel W. Connor
Clerance J. Pickering
Hugh P. Hartley Monday on or before®.... William M. Caughoy Roy R. Peterson 1st and 3d Monday
Williard E.Johnston 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Wednesday .... Paul D. Brown *Harold D. Garwood Stanley E. Ayres Ernest W. Mack, Jr.. 1st and 3d Friday
2d and 4tli Monday 2d and 4th Thursday
1st and 3d Wednesday ....
1st and 3d Saturday ... Tuesday on or bef. ®SK .. Jacob E. Bamesberger I r a W . A. Kern Thomas H. Davenport
1st and 3d Thursday Wabaunsee.... 1st and 3d Monday
County.
Hewit Taylor. Thomas E. McCurry. Floyd L. Bumgarner.
Joseph F. Davenport. William R. Hanna. Charles L. Liston. Arthiu' B. Eliot. Samuel G ardner. Charlie B. Daily. tWilUamM. Tliistle. fOharles P. Bradlng. Marcellus W. Short. Silas R. Horton. Carl H. Moore. Edwin C. McCray. William Berry.
Eoy G. Shearer. Daniel B. Lawson. Prank J. St. Bennett. Jerry B. Fields. tLeo L. Klino. Isaac McCarty. John M. Hyde. Harry R. Markham. Elmer A. Do Bolt. Nova H. Brown.
Secretaries.
NAMES OF LODGES, MASTERS AND SECRETARIES FOR THE YEAR ENDING DECEMBER 31,1926.
O
O
O O
1^
Roland S. Weaver. Charles S. Wilcox. William A. Crews. Harry C. Sleeper. Guy W. Brown. Jesse M. Clementson. Harry L. Orendorff. George F- Watts. William J. Lewis. William W.Kendall. Albert D. Sparr. tMiles B. Baxter. William L. Burnam. Rodney S. Boatwright. Albert E. Halsey. George H. McCaustland. Alfred C. Stryker. Walter B. Hoke, Charles A. Truesdell. Hoyt B. Remy. William Sinclair. William M. Scott. Patrick H. O'Brion. John Swanson. Robert Clark. Herbert V. King. J. Walter Coons. George Burns. Amon R. Rodgers. Edgar J. Clark. Howard F. Hightowor. Guy S. Jeflcrs. William H.Powell.
Frank E. Maxwell James W. Wasson Denver Curtis Cusey.. George A. Gfregg Melvin R. Guard Arthur J. Albers Wilham H. Cauble *Goorge M. !Divelbess.. Charles H. Boyd OrinL. Short W. Nelson Uamill *William D. Kendell... Riley Williiimson Robert B. /LUderson.... Oscar F. Oliion WilhamF. Trimble.... Harvey M. Lillie Frank H. Bioko Edgar L. Gann Carl Albert Johnson... Wyatt C. Vnikin Leslie F. D'.ckerson.... BertE.Eaks Roy G. B WiUlams... Harold A. Hammond.. Charles C. Bowen Albert J. Wjller Charles H. Widau Henry Schoen Melvin E. IJhrader Charles E. Drumm Ferd C. Johnson Victor E. McGinley....
Marshall 11st and 3d Wednesday ... 1st and 3d Tuesday Butler 1st and 3d Wednesday... Sumner 1st and 3d Wednesday... Republic 1st and 3d Monday Mitchell 2d and 4th Wednesday. Doniphan 1st and 3d Monday Wilson 2d and last Wednesday. Ottawa 2d and 4th Tuesday Linn 2d and 4th Monday Marshall 2d and 4th Tuesday Harper Leavenworth. 1st and 3d Saturday Wyandotte ... 1st and 3d Monday Wednesday or on bef. ®. Bourbon Friday on or before ®... Saline 1st and 3d Thursday Ford 1st and 3d Thursday Wilson 1st and 3d Thursday Russell 1st and 3d Thursday Cowley 2d and 4th Tuesday Morris 1st and 3d Wednesday Osage 2d and 4th Monday Coffey 2d and 4th Tuesday Jewell 1st and 3d Thursday.... Harvey
1st and 3d Thursday Sumner Montgomery. 2d and 4th Tuesday McPhcrson... 1st arid 3d Tuesday 2d and 4th Saturday.... Osage 1st and 3d Wednesday Mitchell Chautauqua, 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Monday Nemaha 1st and 3d Wednesday Neosho 2d Monday Neosho
Beaumont Belle Plaine Belle Plaine Belleville Belleville Beloit Mt. Vernon Bendena. Bendena Benedict Benedict Bennington Bennington Blue Mound Lotus Blue Rapids Blue Rapids Bluff City Stolirville Boling Boling Bonner Springs. Bonner Springs. Bronson Bourbon Brookville Brookville Bucklin Grand View Buffalo Buffalo Bunker Hill Beulali Burden Clinton Burdick Burdick Burlingame Corinthian Burlington Burlington Burr Oak Burr Oak Burrton Burrton
Caldwell Caney Canton Carbondale.... Cawker City.. Cedar Vale Centralia Ctianute Chanute
203 324 197 70 125 355 89 103 416
Sumner Caney Canton Carbondale.... Cawker City.. Chautauqua... Home Cedar King David...
Beattie.
Beattie Beaumont
259 439 173 129 145 440 403 180 286 169 368 365 366 268 209 376 379 291 233 429 79 66 178 182
Cn
o
b
O
73 283 20 424 134 273 122 411 176 394 418 102 303 295 212 100 113 269 316 13 80 36 57 362
247 258 119
No.
Cuba
Stated Communications.
Wilson Republic
Hamilton
*Oscar S. Pipkin Alcxandor C. W^allacc Eoy O. Carl Roy F. O'Brien DeoPribble
Masters.
William G. Haxton. William C. Price. Hush H. Barr.
Secretaries.
1st and 3d Wednesday.. 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Alfred G. Benyskek 1st and 3d Monday
2d and 4th Tuesday 1st and 3d Saturday
T. Edwai'd Stafford.
George R Thomason.
Herman A. Pracger. Floyd I. Shoaf. George G. Griffln. 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Edward J. McQuillen, Sr .. Frank L. Seclig. 2d and 4th Saturday George 0. Welch 1st and 3d Thursday .lohn F. Randolph. 1st and 3d Monday Arthur E. Hornoy. William R. Powell. William T. Weavorling 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Benjamin F. Zimmerman.. William L. Marcy. Max W. Smith J. Lawton Stanley. Oral F. Goodeli Obadiah R. Stilwell. 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Tuesday
1st and 3d Tuesday Sedgwiclc 2d and 4th Tuesday Crawford Montgomery.. 1st and 3d Saturday 3d Thursday Labette 2d and 4th Wednesday.. 2d and 4th Monday
County.
Clay Sedgwiclt Clifton Clay Greenwood Prairie Queen.... Cloud Pratt Codeii Montgomery.. St. Thomas Comanche Olive Branch Anderson Cherolfee Cloud
Claflin Clay Center
Cliotopa
Name of Lodge.
Cotton'd Fails.. Council Grove .. Council Grove ..
Conway Springs
Codell Cofleyvlllo Colby
Clyde
Clifton
Claflin Clay Center .
Cherokee
Location.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Continued.
o
a to
h
to o o
45 127 345 48 97 350 132 120 422 217 297 140 387 12 413 437
31 151 138 204 374
432 375 419 202 372 40 92 156 279
.
Enterprise
Ellis
15lgin Ellc City Elk Falls Elkhart
D wight
Dodge City
Do Soto
Cunningham
Enterprise
Olive
Edna
Dwight
Douglass
St. B e r n a r d
Delia
Cunningham Wednesday.. Thursday W e d n e s d a y .. Tuesday Tuesday
W i l b u r A. Lash
E r n e s t C. G r a y Henry E. P i t t o n *Jamcs C. M c G e o •William O. Stutz * H a r r y K. Lorenz T h o m a s E . Fralick Francis M . S t e w a r t Josepli C. Ilrown H a r r y W. ^.dams William Bock O r a H . Aldj.-ich E l m o r e W e b b Brodie.. •William T. Jenkins R o b e r t H . IBeacli *Glen J. Nui?ent Oscar E . Londene
Julian W. Wells *Elvin W. Stice Charles P . AFhite Alva S. A d a m s Wesley Sore *Homer T. Orrick S a t u r d a y on or before ® *G. Wesley Smitli 1st and 3d T u e s d a y * S a m u e l J . Waldorf 1st a n d 3d T u e s d a y WilhamB. Martin E d w a r d O. Thompson.. S a t u r d a y on or before ® Jedediah P . Ashcraft.... 1st a n d 3d S a t u r d a y O t h a V. Jev'Oll 2d T h u r s d a y * S e t h B . Kemble 1st and 3d F r i d a y N a t h a n F. W i n t e r s 1st a n d 3d T h u r s d a y •Benjamin F . Meyers....
2d a n d 4 t h 1st a n d 3d 1st a n d 3d 1st a n d 3d 1st and 3d
1st a n d 3d T h u r s d a y
Leavenwortli.. S a t u r d a y on or bef. ®=.... M o n d a y on or before®.. 1st and 3d T u e s d a y Labette 1st and 3d M o n d a y 1st a n d 3d Tliursday Butler C h a u t a u q u a .. 1st and 3d W e d n e s d a y .. M o n t g o m e r y . . 2d and 4 t h M o n d a y . . Elk 1st and 3d F r i d a y 1st and 3d M o n d a y Morton L a s t Wednesday 1st and 3d F r i d a y ElUs 1st and 3d M o n d a y Ellswortli P o t t a w a t o m i e 1st and 3d S a t u r d a y 1st and 3d F r i d a y 1st and 3d T h u r s d a y Dickinson 2d and 4 t h M o n d a y
Ford Doniphan . Butler Shawnee
Kingman
fLloyd Coberly. P e r r y E . Wolfloy. Clarence E . Kailenborgci'. Franlc M . Marsli. fLcon L . Cousland. Joiin V. Fralick. R o b e r t H . Wliite. N e w t o n Hill. William J. Blackburn. Orville A. Keeler. Arthur Fauteux. Charles D . M c l l r e e . Clarke S. Pool. Charles W . Cleaver. Fred E . P e a t . William O. Strain.
Willis E . Benjamin. •• J o h n D . Harknoss. H e r m a n B . Miller. Harry P. Dean. Clarence E . M c C l a r r e n . Charles B . Wiard. George A. Van D y k e Chester E . Snyder. Jolin H . Schloreck. Richard W. Evans. F r a n k L. Brenner. Thomas M. Downey. R o b e r t Lindsay. Charles B . Bates. t G e o r g e K. D a y .
Franli Price.
01
>.
o
o
b t-s O b
Cl
o
05 108 44 183 361
194
330 311 8 392 07 337 95 389 210
103 124 114
83 100
76 22S
No.
Garden City
Name of Lodge.
Fulton
Constellation
Fidelity
. . Erie Salem
Ft. Leavenworth Fort Scott
Erie
Location,
Stated Communications. Paul M. Cory Walter B. Bradley William A. Haltcs George A. Gerstenberger.... Swausey E. Anderson
Masters.
and and and and
3d 3d 3d 3d
Anderson ... Smith Klce
*Ray S. Pauley
Monday ... Robert L. Gillian Wedne.'irin.v .. Guy H. Ditto Thursday Daniel T. Bunton Tlrarsday
.'
1st and 3d Thursday ,,, Reginald C. Patterson 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3cl Thursday Saturday on or before®.. •Robert B. Rubendall 2d and 4th Wednesday.. Warren E. Need
Cherokee 1st and 3d Wednesday .. McPherson ....
1st 1st l.st ]st
Pottawatomie 2d and 4th Saturday
Greenwood .... 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Thomas C. West Tuesday on or before®.. Crawford Willis E. Taylor 2d Tuesday *Ealph Mathews John S. Magnusson 1st and 3d Monday Leavenworth.. 1st and 3d Thursday Clement H. Wright
2d and 4th Wednesday.. 2d and 4th Tuesday Wabaunsee .... 1st and 3d Monday 2d and 4th Tuesday Greenwood.... 1st and 3d Tuesday
County.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Continued.
James A. Williams. Joseph R. Million. John H. Vaughn. Harmon M. Martin. John H. Stratman.
Jesse B. Bonder. Harry H. Ingalls.
Charles D. Pritchard. Ora S. Wood. James C Riggs. tLee Smith. David A. Nywall. William A. Weikamp. Fred Roy Alford. John E. Curl. O. Carl Prathcr. George H. Nodurft. William O. Starns. Prank A. Gass. Harry L. Woods.
Daniel P. Mills. Edward E. Duncan. Leo J. W^hlto. John D. Adams. Hugh B. Lamb.
Secretaries.
I
o
o
b
O
"13
1^
John J. Muth. John J. Micrau. Leonard U. Thrall. Lawrence E. Shum. Horace A. Leo. Charles R. Baysinger. Claude H. Earl. H. Grant Astle. Walter C. Richardson. Henry H. Beck. Charles W. Reeder. William M.Pfafif. Jasper N. Chambers. Fred M. Thompson. James V. Routh. Luther L. Hassenpflug. William H. Hargls. Joyce F. Blackman.
1 281
Highland Hill City
HiattvlUe...
MlUbiook
Havensville
Havensvillo
34 409
263 398 307
Hartford Harveyville
3d 3d 3d 3d 3d 3d
Doniphan
1st and 3d Monday,,
Thursday on or before ® Pottawatomie 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st Monday Ellis 1st and 3d Tuesday Monday on or bef. ®= .. Crawford 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Dickinson 2d and 4th Saturday,....
Wabaunsee....
Washington.... 2d and 4th Tuesday ,. 1st and 3d Thursday Greenwood .... 1st and 3d Thursday 2d and 4th Wednesday.. 1st and 3d Wednesday ..
and and and and and and
Ray W. Mclvenzie John V. Haanah Robert B. I'iatt Jerry li. Sherrer *Harry Russell Adolph R. IJlitzing Court H. Houseworth... Marion E. Henderson... Roy Channel •Jesse O. Scf.ntlin Alfred Havsmann Harry R. Barnes Thomas B. Lincoln Russell J. Patterson George H. lEIowell Charles M. Holman Robert H. Thomas Willard Brown...
Harvey ville
Great Bend
Glen Elder Goff
1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st
Larkin B. Davidson. Sophus Nutland. Eugene F. Pound. Arley H. Fltzwater. CamlUo W. Jupe. Lawrence O. Maxwell Valie L. Robertson. Clarence F. Heaton. Frank S. Gerhold. Charles J. Reboul. Allen M. Beverly. Carl Kaucher. Homer C. Hunt. David D. Stuart. J. Willis Manon.
Crawford Cloud..'. Mitchell
William L. M:orris Wednesday .. Marion C. Pratt Charles J. Munger Thursday Glen Elder N'alentine Hart Tuesday Gotr Wednesday .. Leo J. Schis'.er Richard H. Mendenhall Tuesday Reginald S. Hass Tuesday •Grainfleld Joseph E. McMuUon Great Bend Monday or or before ®.. William P. Breedlovo Anderson 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Oriol F. Newton HigViland Clay Washington.... 1st and 3d Wednesday .. William E. ::.ittle Oliver M. Smith 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Charles E. Schul Elk Henry E. Miiller 2d and 4th Friday Coffey James E. D:ickerson 1st and 3d Tuesday Gypsum City'....
Glrard
421
226 46 301 185 206
93 292 294 430 321 302 381 15 211 296 232 293 248 314 328
CD
1^
Co lien
o
tq
t) o
tr^ o
0
271
443
227 360 282 11 441 7
Blue Valley .
Hoyt
Holyrood
Name of Lodge.
Kansas City ....... Armourdale Kansas City
Junction City....
Jennings
Independence....
Hutchinson
29 72 140
88
Hoyt
Location.
352 326 155 348 327
343 288
42
No.
2d and 4th Tuesday
2d and 4th Tuesday
1st and 3d Thursday ,. 1st and 3d Tuesday . .. 2d and 4th Wednesday.. 1st and 3d Tuesday
1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Thursday
Stated Communications.
Homer G. Bearnes *Willard E. Perrell Bearl Conner Alexander K. Hader Thomas B. Clark Roscoe B. Hatch James L. Prier Guy 0. Buskirk Thomas E. Mawdsloy Edwin P. Jones Harold T. English
Carl A. M Ekblad Claude E.-Butrum
Masters.
Oscar W. Hall •Thomas B. Webb *Charles W. Johnson
Lyle V. Bumgardner 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Monday . 1st and 3d Monday.. Roy Sorem 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Ferris E. Pence *Charles J, Stewart 2d and 4th Saturday James E. Vandervort 1st and 3d Thursday
1st and 3d Tuesday Wyandotte .... 1st and 3d Friday •Wyandotte .... 1st and 3d Thursday
Hodgeman
Cloud
Keno
1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Montgomery.. 2d and 4th Tuesday Clarence A. Hubbard Allen 1st and 3d Tuesday 2d and 4th Saturday . .. J. Frank Wells
Allen
Elli.
Ellsworth Dickinson
County.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGBS-—Continued.
.'
Alva D. Mangus. tJames E. Porter. tRobert W. Radford.
William R. Ansdell. Edw. D. Heatherington. Walter E. Sniith. Powell G. Price. James H. Berry. Charles H. Gove.
James M. Jacoby. Clark C. Thomas.' Jolm F. Hoyt.
Ralph B. Call. Ora Morgan. Joseph M. Wanasok. Alfred A. Peterson. Charles E. Landis. Ralph D. Hill. Holly M. Miller. Allyn S. Chandler. Ale.tander Loe. Cuthbert B. Combs. Lester E. Morrow. Oliver M. Anderson. Odio L. Bateraan Otto Painter.
Secretaries.
'<
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H
o•^
Co
M
o
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"^
CO 00
330 61 325 260 289 339 49 167 401 6 g 2 10 68 287 152 420 135 181 223 235
369 438 405 338 230 447 179 278 175-
272
Leavenwortli Leavenworth Leavenworth
Kingsdown
K a n s a s City Kansas City Kansas City Kansas City Kansas City Kensington
Butler
Leavenworth..
Allen
Phillips
Ford Edwards
Garfield
Butler
Leavenworth.. Leavenworth King Solomon.... Leavenworth.. Leavenworth.. Oalr Cofley
N i n e Mile
Medicine Valley
Mt. Moriah
Wyandotte.... W y a n d o t t e .... W y a n d o t t e .... R. E . Sherman.. W y a n d o t t e .... W y a n d o t t e ... "West G a t e Smith Kensington Anderson
f A r t h u r H . Strickland. t P r a n k McDougall. fWllliam E . Saunders. tFrod H. Mertel. , t C l a r e n d o n Greenwood, J r . G u y R. Currier. R a l p h E. Smith. Virgil E. Reed. F r e d W. Hiss. O t t o A. M c K i h i p . R o b e r t T. Ishmael. John Garrett. John W. McCormick. P . B . Leivy. J o h n E . Garvey. F r e d Lake. Francis L. I'ierce. Marion M c M u t t . Charles L. Cherrie. H e r b e r t L. Ames. 1. R o l a n d Ferguson. Clarence B . Birch. P a u l A. Lange. fCharles E . C a r t . t E l m e r McCool. t J o s e p h F . Seymour. J a m e s L. Felton. T h o m a s L. Lewis. Bert D. Baughman. P e r c y L. Jones. R o b e r t A. R i c h m o n d . A r t h u r L. M a r k s . Almon H . Chaffee.
,.. *Glen L. Cowger *Fred Workemtine •George A. B.'. S t u r h a h n 1st a n d 3d F r i d a y *John L. W c o d s 2d and 4 t h S a t u r d a y 2d and 4 t h Wednesday.. *Everett Dillon J C Woods 2d and 4 t h T u e s d a y Herbert D. Henderson 1st and 3d M o n d a y 1st a n d 3d W e d n e s d a y .. Cliflord G. M i n e r 2nd a n d 4 t h M o n d a y . . . . F r a n k O liigels Solomon Hoge 2d a n d 4 t h T u e s d a y 2d and 4 t h Wednesday.. Solomon A. H e m p l e R. P a u l Royce 2d a n d 4 t h F r i d a y Claude C. Oonard 2d a n d 4 t h T h u r s d a y R o y G. M c C a r t y 1st a n d 3d M o n d a y 1st, 3d and 5 t h T h u r s d a y W a l t o n A. R a n s o m 2d S a t u r d a y D o n a l d W. Skinner 1st and 3d T u e s d a y R a l p h E . Thorpe... 2d a n d 4 t h T h u r s d a y William O. H e n d e r s o n 1st and 3d M o n d a y *William R. D o h r n 1st a n d 3d W e d n e s d a y .. Solon E . B^orgess 2d and 4 t h T u e s d a y J. E d . R a n k i n 2d M o n d a y G u y M . Pennock...-. 2d T h u r s d a y Edward Hope 1st a n d 3d M o n d a y *Joseph R. Shawhan 2d and 4 t h T h u r s d a y .... *Daniel Reilly 1st and 3d T h u r s d a y *Angelo N . Alonzo 1st a n d 3d W e d n e s d a y .. R a y m o n d C. Guise 1st a n d 3d F r i d a y Reid M c K i n l e y 1st and 3d F r i d a y F r e d H . Niice S a t u r d a y on or before®.. E d w a r d B r a d s h a w Clarence E . P a l m e r 2d and 4 t h T h u r s d a y Charles F . Sliriver 1st and 3d S a t u r d a y 1st a n d 3d W e d n e s d a y .. Charles B . M e y e r s
1st and 3d T h u r s d a y
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16
101 192
27
No.
MarysvlUe
Maple City
Manhattan
Long Island
Long Island
Maple City
Blue Hill
Corner Stone
Name of Lodge.
Little River
Linn
Location.
Wichita Coflev Edwards
Don C. Campbell. Howard S. Daniel. Victor L. Krig. Jolm I. Brandenburger.
Harvey B. Bronoman. W. Earl Shaffer. tStephen A. D. Geauquo. Warren H. Vinlng.
Secretaries.
• Ezekicl F. Stephens 2d and 4th Monday Stafford Greenwood .... 1st and 3d Tuesday James W. McCoUoch Riley 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Saturday on or bef. ®=.. Wabaunsee.... 1st and 3d Thursday Saturday on or bef. ®=.... Ist'Friday McPherson .... 2d and 4th Tuesday . Paul W. Kirkpatrick Marshall
Masters.
H. Raymond Green. George W. Schlatter. George W. WeUs. Earl L. Smith. . Ivan D. Lyon. George A. Nelson. Clarence A. Johnson. Howard W. Howsmon. Albert J. Reed. Francis C. Troup. Cecil W. Starr. Marion M. Miller. James H. Bunco. William E. Ekcy. Opie O. Mowory. Gerald 0. Drydon. Patrick A. Dickcrson.
Stated Communications.
2d and 4th Monday Wihiani A. Harris 1st and 3d Tuesday ' 2d and 4th Wednesday.. William H. Quipp 1st and 3d Monday 2d and 4th Thursday McPherson .... 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Washington.... Saturday on or before®.. Elmer Meyer Archie T. Meinko Leavenworth.. Charles E. Ward 2d and'4tli Tuesday,,, David A. Ridgley Phillips 2d and 4th Tuesday Phillips 1st and 3d Thursday Elk Dan G. McKay 1st and 3d Thursday Walter M. Bralv 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Thursday Frank W. Lee 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Wednesday .. George W. Anderson 1st and 3d Thursday
County.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Continued.
o
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349 390 94 82 191 130
399 201 128 116
346 218 238 261
393 58 237 383 250 172 275 77 22 236 255 242 143 431 267 245 414 373 33
McCracken
Minneapolis
Neosho Falls
Widnut Valley....
Mound City ,, ., Mound City Moundridgo Moundridge Mound Valley.... Mount Hope Mount Hope Mulberry
Minneapolis
McPherson Webb Medicine Lodge Delta
McPherson
McCracken
Woodson
Republic
1st and 3d Saturday 1st and 3d Monday 2d and 4th Wednesday.. 1st and 3d Monday 2d and 4th Tuesday
Robert L. Bever John Chriistensen Albert L. Wells Floyd H. Lynn Edwin M. Fisher *Theodore J. Christensen
I.oEoy Mooro Edward J. Fletcher Crawford Louis G. Siiainke Arthur E. !L;arson Fred B. Ccx William T. Vesper McPherson .... Alex E. "Wilson Meado 1st and 3d Tuesday , James A. Jordan Barber •Howard K. Woodbury.. 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Thursday John York 1st and 3d Thursday ,, , Henry E. IMhkins Charles G. Fury 1st and 3d Friday Cloud 2d and 4th Wednesday.. Oliver E. Idurdick Clark 2d and 4th Tuesday Otis F. Bolinger .Elk 2d and 4th Tuesday Eoy Croft Allen Saturday on or bef. ®«.... William O. McKlnley... Joseph M. Nichols ;... 1st and 3d Tuesday Charles A. Snodgrass.... Jolm W. Potter *Eoy M. Smith McPherson .... 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Frank N. Watson Sedgwick Wednesday on or bef.®= Carl D. Adams 2d and 4th Tuesday Thomas S. Wintlo Crawford 1st and 3d Wednesday .. LaVern Kirby 1st and 3d Wednesday ., *Herman Garrett 2d and 4th Wednesday.. Edward J. Brosh 1st and 3d Thursday Hans J. Lassen, Jr
2d and 4th Thursday .,, 2d and 4th Tuesday 2d and 4th Monday 2d and 4th Wednesday.. Thursday on or after®..
Albert Bever. Hugh P. Richards. James A. Songer. Mount O. Dulinsky. Hayes Floyd. Elmer B. Johnson.
Charles C. Kelly. John I. Edwards. Thomas R. Landes. Oscar A. Brown. Jesse F. Pyle. Homer J. Ferguson. Ormond Hamilton. Oscar T. Thom. Oscar E. Hendrix. Robert E. Anderson. Philip J. Casselman. Jesse E. Shay. Edward W. Lenander. Walter S. Wright. Harry E. Long. John J. Boman. Albert liobler. Ray H. Mickey. Charles W- IQngsbiu'y. Ivy B. Gray. Marvin O. Mayginnis. William A. McCormick. R. Worth Sinilie. Abraham Peters. Sam F. Kimble. .Will H. Strnad. William H. Comer. '
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334 253 186 25 19 188 323 141 24 160 14 63 18 400 62 436 165
Parker
Overland Paris .. Overland Park .. Oxford Oxford
Oslialoosa
Osawatomie
Olieto Olatlie...
Clay
Oak Hill
Oak Hill
1st and 3d Thursday Thursday on or before ® 2d and 4th Wednesday.. 1st and 3d Thursday
2d and 4tli Tuesday
Stated Com,munications.
1st and 3d Monday 2d and 4th Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Saturday
Franklin
Linn
1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Mountain Slope 1st and 3d Tuesday Oketo .... 1st and 3d Monday Olathe 2d Thursday.. Pottawatomie 1st and.3d Wednesdaj;.. 1st and 3d Wednesday .. 1st and 3d Wednesday .. 1st and 3d Thursday Osage Valley 2d and 4th Thursday Osborne 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Thursday
Kingman
• County.
Norton '. Mount Zicn
New Albany
81 142 43 317 199 266 319
Name of Lodge.
Norton Nortonville Norwich
Location.
No.
Charles E. Vail
Robert G. Cox Thomas M. Copeland
Masters.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Con^inMed.
William C. Dysart.
Ralph O. Taylor.
William H. Price.
Secretaries.
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Plains
162
Rush Center
Riley
Walnut City
Butler
Riley
J. Drex Burke
2d and 4th Wednesday.. Gail F. Wallis 1st and 3d Tuesday
1st and 3d Wednesday .. K. Neil Pfuetze 1st and.3d Thursday Walter H. PoUey 1st and 3d Thursday Grant D. Piotzman 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Harold Goble 1st and 3d Tuesday Solomon E. Anderson
Riley
304 166 123 44« 426 344 159 434 111 915 177
Paul C. Gar;it Charles E. Iletrick
Cniford L. Flumb
*Clair O. L. Dunbar
1st and 3d Thursday 2d and 4th Monday
1st and 3d Tuesday 2d and 4th Tuesday Saturday on or before®. 2d and 4th Satiu-day., 2d and 4th Monday 1st and 3d Tuesday 2d and 4th Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday
Phillips Wyandotte .... 2d and 4th Saturday Crawford 1st and 3d Thursday
Pratt Rob Morris Pratt . Pretty Prairie.... Pretty Prairie.... Comanche .,.
Pratt
Potter...;
Phillipsburg
Phillipsburg
Tuesday on or before ® *Morrill H. B:enning 2d and 4th Monday 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Tuesday
270 410
168 117 120 415 184 385 187 367 290 88 41 4 3R3 265 332 428 384
George B. Moore.
Earl- L. Barrett. . William M. Hungerford. James W. Werts. Milton A. Ellis. David P. Graham. Joseph A. Meyer. Jesse A. Pettey. William H. Anderson. Charles E. Van Vleck. Frank U. Kershner. Arthur L. Boyd.
Charles E. Miller. Claude W. Roesch.
tJohn H. Amos. Robert F. Hume. David W. Sterling William E. Cain. Fred A. Kelley. William A. Dresser William W. Heine. Robert A. McPhee Earl T. Gillespie. Charles V. Porter. Leonard L. Jones. Samuel S. Parker. tCharles W. Loyd. Oran L. Miller. Lawrence P. Millspaugh. Sidney F. Dofforn. Merit Bachman.
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395 60 446 315 351 221 284 249 407 136 139 423 39 313 213 417 54 50 214 174 240 105 157 388 347 56 252 444
No.
Name of Lodge.
County.
Stated Communications.
Saffordville
1st and 3d Thursday . 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Tuesday Allen 1st and 3d Thursday Cherokee 1st and 3d Wednesday .. 1st and 3d Monday Scott Scott City 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Mitchell Soottsville 2d and 4th Tuesday 2d and 4th Monday Chautauqua .. 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Tuesday l.st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday Doniphan 2d Sat. and 4th Wed Greenwood .... 2d and 4th Tuesday . Twin Grove 1st and 3d Thursday Sharon Springs.. Sliaron Springs.. Wallace 1st and 3d AVodnesday .. 1st and 3d Thursday , Mitchell.: 1st and 3d Thursday Smith 1st and 3d Tuesday Smitli Center .... Western Star 2d and 4th Thursday Soldier 2d and 4th Tuesday Solomon City .... Dickinson 1st and 3d Tuesday Soutli Haven 1st and 3d Thursday Ford Kingman........ 1st and 3d Wednesday .. 1st and 3d Monday.. Spring Hili Stafford Stafford 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Tuesday Stanley Johnson
Location.
*Watson B. Planner
*Charlcs H. Nesselrode
Wiilard E. Mattmiller
Edward Dunkleberger Lee E. Clark
• Masters.
NAMES OF OfFitERS AND LODGES—Continued.
Glenn H. Wagner,
George H. Marty.
tHarry V. Cochran.
Floyd W. Carter.
Bryan McKinley. Wilbur H. Cheney.
Albert E. Morey.
William G. Taylor.
Secretaries.
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402 148
Trego
Valley Center.... Valley Center.... Sedgwick Valley Falls VaUey Falls Vermillion
364 21 320
Tyro
Tyro
Urbana
Troy
Troy
Orient Topeka (No.) .... Golden Kule
Tonganoxle
James A. Carter. Gus Kerlee. tEUjah A. Reeves. Eugene S. Talcott. John C. Burkort. Joseph H. Jolmson. Forest G. Joss. Arthur S. Keraus.
•Roy E. Cari;er Milo Miller Roy Likens •Louis B. Muma Elbert G. Boughner.. Smith Van Gilder Eoscoe S. Collins William B. Dillinger.
Edwin C. Eagles. William Heynen. tGeorge W. McClelland. tEvan Davis. tJames H. Murrell. tBurl J Snow. E. Francis Armstrong. Napoleon L. Reed. Emil O. Winzer. Harry E. Campbell. Frederick R. Frank. Herman S. Tuttle.
William A. Walt 2d and 4th Monday James M. IViott Leavenworth.. 1st Sat. and 3d Thurs 1st and 3d Wednesday .. •George H. Carothers *Ivor E. Davis 1st and 3d Friday *Eoy M. Slaybaugh... 2d and 4th Thursday •Ernest R. Ambrose... 1st and 3d Thursday George L. Curtis Woodson 1st and 3d Monday Joel E. Davis Butler John L. Hagen Doniphan 1st Mon, and 2d Sat Willey R. Buie Wyandotte.... 1st and 3d Thursday Edward GrE.gg •Harold H. "NFagner... Montgomery.. 2d and 4th Friday
1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday
1st and 3d Tuesday 2d and 4th Monday
Hugo H. Rauschelbacli. Alfred E. Post. James H. Hammitt. Bert Levett. George M. Unger. John J. Miller. Walter H. Keller. Stanley E. Raflety. John W. Coleman. William E. Fatten.
Charles W. [Davis Howard A. Hear Owen J. Gabbert Alford E. McElvain. Carl F. Cooper Frank McCoy James M. Kendall Joseph Novak *Glenn C. MoConib... Carlton B. (Jrissom...
Cheyenne Stafford Pottawatomie.... Pottawatomie Newahcuba Haskell Santa Fe Summerfleld Summerfleld Sylvan Grove.... Sylvan Grove.... Sylvia Sylvia Hamilton
Sterling
435 115 239
149 190 17 51 90 225 121 30 55 425 358 386
171 404 254 52 189 312 354 359 391 309
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75 104 85 64 244 274 150 356 257 305 53 96 380 78 280 250 86 99 303 433 224 412 382 2U8
229
396 377 318
No.
Wakefield
Name of Lodge.
Clay
County1st and 3d Tuesday
Slated Communications. *Elmer D. Male
Masters.
Walnut
Monday on or bof. ®»=i .. Crawford Monday on or before ©.. Pottawatomie 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Charles L. Blanchard Washington Washington.... 2d and 4th Thursday David J. Welch *Albin J. Truhlicka 1st and 3d Thursday Doniphan 1st and 3d Saturday Coirey *J. Paul Campbell .. 1st and 3d Tuesdav Weir Black Diamond.. Cherokee 2d and 4th Thursday 2d and 4th Monday Wellsvillo Wellsville Franklin 1st and 3d Monday Westmoreland.... Westmoreland.... Pottawatomie 2d and 4th Monday Avon Westphalia Anderson Tuesday on or before®.. John E. EUis Saturday on or bef.®==.... White Church.... Wyandotte .... 1st and 3d Saturday White City 2d and 4th Friday White City Morris White Cloud White Cloud Doniphan 1st and 3d Wednesday .. White Water Brainerd 1st and 3d Tuesday.: Butler Whiting Whiting Tuesday on or bef. ®=.... Frank E. Cleland Wichita Sunflower Sedgwick 2d and 4th Tuesday Wichita Sedgwick...:.... 1st and 3d Monday Wichita Sedgwick Albert Pike 2d and 4th Wednesday.. Wichita Bestor G. Brown 1st and 3d Thursday *Clyde S. Shelley Anchor 1st and 3d Thursday Williamsburg 1st and 3d Thursday Comanche Wilsey Wilsey 1st and 3d Monday Ellsworth 1st and 3d Wednesday ..
Wakefield
Location.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Concluded.
George E. Kennedy. Roger C. Tompkins. Herman C. Walter.
Walter R. Pace. Irving P. Belden. tWlUiam H. McCoin. tJoseph L Kirk. tBenjamin F. Dunlsin. tLylo H. Plant.
George M. Johnston. Claude J. Wood. tChester A. Barnard. Royal F. Smith.
Perry E. Miller.
Fred F. Clobridge.
Angus T. McMillan.
tWilliam D. Starling. Herbert W. Snyder.
Secretaries.
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MASTERS. No. * Address. 2—739 W a l n u t . 3 ^ 1 1 2 5 Cleveland Ave. 5—527 Commercial St. 10—016 9 t h Ave. 17—177 Kellam. 22—Olivet. 25—Marysville, R. F . D . N o . 2. 28—Blue M o u n d . 3 2 — T o p e k a , R. F . D . N o . 1. 40—Lcnape. 47—Bronson, R. F . D . N o . 4. 48—Monrovia. 49—Leavenworth, R.F.D.No.2. 51—413 W. 14th St. 53—Netawaka. 54—Alerriam. 56—Bucyrus. 6 8 — F o r t L e a v e n w o r t h , 100 B . M e a d e Ave. 80—Strong C i t y . 8 5 — B a r n e s , R. F . D . N o . 1. 86—316 S h e r m a n Ave. 90—293 Chester Ave. 92—Redfleld, R. F . D . N o . 2. 96—Bethel, R. F . D . N o . 1. 9 7 - 0 1 1 Hill. 99—327 N . Lawrence. 130—Holton. 1 3 1 — R o u t e N o . 1. 138—517 M o n r o e St., T o p e k a . 156—-Cambridge. 158—212 N . 9 t h St. 168—Kelso. 180—Minneapolis. 183—Harlan. 201—Derby.
MASTERS. No. *Address. 2 0 6 - —Duouoin. 2 0 7 - —Bloomington. 2 2 5 - - 8 1 2 Lincoln St. 244- —Agricola. 2 5 8 - —Garden Plain. 2 7 1 - - 9 2 4 S. Ferree. 2 7 2 - —1611 F r e e m a n Ave. 3 0 3 - —Scottish R i t e T e m p l e . 3 1 3 - —Leona. 3 1 9 -- M i l t o n . 3 2 2 - —1265 M e t r o p o l i t a n Ave. 3 3 3 - - 4 1 7 0 C a m b r i d g e St. 3 3 5 - —Admire. 3 4 2 -- D e x t e r . 3 4 5 --Angola. 3 4 0 - —Hcsston. 3 4 7 -- R a g o . 3 5 2 - —Tribune. 3 6 4 - —Maize. 3 6 5 - - L e a v e n w o r t h , 1117 Spruce 3 6 9 - - 7 2 3 Greely Ave. 3 7 4 - - R o u t e N o . 1. 3 7 5 - - W h i t e City, R . F . D . N o . 4. 3 8 5 --Basehor. 3 8 6 - -Jefferson, R . F . D . N o . 1. 3 8 7 --Onaga. 3 9 1 --Zenith. 3 9 2 --Flush. 3 9 6 - - R . F . D . N o . 4. 413--R. F. D. 4 2 6 --Princeton. 4 2 8 --Castleton. 4 3 3 - -1529 N . Holyoke. 4 3 8 - - 1 9 6 8 N . 2 8 t h St. 441--Hatton. 4 4 4 --Kenneth.
iAnd two weeks thereafter.
Kingman
SECRETARIES. JVo. -^Address. 2—603 Olive. 3—Masonic Temple. ,5—605 K a n s a s Ave. 10—420 D e l a w a r e St. 10—Box 86, K. S. A. C. 17—Masonic T e m p l e . 4.5—Box 75. 47—Bronson, R. F . D . I<o. 2. 5 0 — T o p e k a , R. F . D . N o . 6. 51—1400 T o p e k a Ave. 68—2006 S. 4 t h St. 86—205 Caldwell-Murdock Bldg. 90—1228 N . Harrison St. 9 6 — B e t h e l R. 1. 97—Box 23. 9 9 — P . O. Box 255. 1 3 1 — R o u t e N o . 3.
SPECIAL ADDRESSES. No.
SECRETABIES. fAdrircss. 158- - 1 1 7 N . 7 t h St. 168- - W h i t e C i t y . 225- —Masonic T e m p l e , R o o m B . 239- - T h a y e r , R. F . D . N o . 1. 271- - 2 1 9 N . 20th. 272- - 1 8 2 5 W a s h i n g t o n B l v d . 303- - S c o t t i s h R i t e T e m p l e . 310- - C a l v e r t . 322- - 1 6 2 9 S. 29th St. 333- - 3 9 4 4 H u d s o n R o a d . 351- -Columbus. 363- - H i a w a t h a , R . F . D . N o . 4. 36.5- - L e a v e n w o r t h , R . F . D . N o . 3 . 309- -3021 N . 22nd St. 374- - R o u t e N o . 1. 396- - B o x 87. 4 3 3 - - B o x 963. 4 3 8 - -430 M i n n e s o t a Ave.
Clare S. Lockwood.
2d and 4th Wednesday.. R a l p h M . H a r d e r
Zenda
378
Zenda
F r e d C. C a n n a d y .
1st a n d 3d W e d n e s d a y .. C l a u d e E . B r o o k s
Yates Center
144
Woodson
t R o b e r t H. M a r s h a l l .
. ... Winfleld
J. H a r r y Riley. U r b a n A. M y e r s . David 0 . Watts.
S a t u r d a y on or before®.. *Leroy D . Ha.yes
Wlnfleld
T h u r s d a y on or before ® George W . Swoyer R u d o l p h D. Shilling M c P h e r s o n .... 1 st and 3d S a t u r d a y Louis F . H e y d e c k e r 1st and 3d T h u r s d a y .. .
47
84 276 110
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Owen J. Wood,,, Hugh P. Farrelly. Ben S. Paulcn John McCullagh. . *John A, FerreU,,, EbierF. Strain,. Charles A, Loucks John W, Neilson, Charles N, Fowler Hugh P, Farrelly, Ben S, Paulen John McCullagh, . *John A. FerreU,,. Richard E. Bird.. Charles A, Loucks John W. Neilson.. Charles N. Fowler Ferris M.Hill
Ben S. Paulen John McCullagh... Mohn A. FerreU Richard E. Bird.... Elmer F. Strain...-. John W. Neilson... 'Charles N, Fowler,. Ferris M. Hill Georse F.Beezlev...
Gr. Senior Warden. Gr. Junior Warden.
F. March F, March F, March F. March F, March F, March F. March F. March F. March
Grand Treasurer.
•Deceased. tDimittcd and removed from this jurisdiction. || Suspended. tin 1879 the time for holding the Annual Communication was changed from October to February, and no Communication was held in 1880. §Annual Communication postponed from February 18-19, 1920, to March 17-18, 1920, account of influenza. ''Clayton Lehman elected, but declined to accept and Charles N. Fowler was appointed.
*Wm. I.Stuart..,, Owen J. Wood Hugh P. Farrelly. , Ben S. Paulen John MoCuIlagh.. Eichard E. Bird.., Elmer F. Strain.., Charles A. Loucks John W. Ncilson..
Topeka. Wichita Topelca. Wichita Topeka. Wichita Topeka. Wichita Topeka
1918 1919 51920 1921 1922 1923 1924 1925 1926
Master. Deputy Gr. Master.
M.'.W.'.Gr.
Place oj Meeting.
Date.
ELECTIVE GRAND OFFICERS FROM ORGANIZATION TO PRESENT TIME—Concluded.
Aa-ert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson, Albert K. Wilson, Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson,
Grand Secretary.
ta
o
Co
O
O
GRAND
1925-26.
LODGE
OF
511
KANSAS.
ALPHABETICAL LIST OF LODGES. Name. Acacia Active Adams Advance Albert P i k e Alden Alien Alma Alpha Altamont Alta Vista Altoona Americus Anclior..... Antliem Antliony Apollo Arcndia . Arcana Argonia Arma Armourdale AsMand Aslilar Attica Atwood Auburn Avon Axtell
No. 9 158 63 114 303 308 335 161 282 69 357 118 109 224 284 200 297 32G 31 285 408 271 277 344 262 164 32 305 234
Barney... 279 Baxter....; 71 Beattie..: 259 Beaumont 439 Belie P l a l n e 173 Belleville 129 Bendena 440 Benedict 403 Benevolent 98 Ben H u r 322 Bennington 180 Bestor G. Brown..433 Beulah 291 Black Diamond....274 Blue Hill 198 Blue R a p i d s 169 B l u e Valley 112 Boling 365 B o n n e r Springs ....366 Bourbon 268 Brainerd 280 Brookville 209 Buffalo 379 Burdick 429 Burlington 66 B u r r Oak 178 Burrton 182 Cable Caney Canopy Canton Carbondale Carson C a w k e r City....: Cedar Center Cliarity Chase Chautauqua Cherokee Cherryvale Chetopa
299 324 248 197 70 132 125 103 147 263 247 355 119 137 73
Location. Lawrence. Atchison. Oswego. Florence. AVichita. Alden. Allen. Alma. Jetmore. Altamont. A l t a Vista. Altoona. Americus. Williamsburg. S c o t t City. Anthony. Ellis. Ai.^oHi'^
Doniphan. Argonia. Arma. Kansas City. Ashland. Riley. Attica. Atwood. Auburn. Westphalia. Axtell. Dighton. B a x t e r Springs.
Bendena. Benedict. Abilene. K a n s a s City. Bennington. Wichita. B u n k e r Hill. WeirLucas. Irving. Boling. B o n n e r Springs. B'ronson. White Water. Brookville. Buffalo. Burdick. Burlington. B u r r Oak. Burrton. Arlington. Caney. Grenola. Canton. Carbondale. E l k City. Cawker City. Chanute. Marion. Hazelton. Chase. C e d a r Vale. Cherokee. Cherryvale. Chetopa.
No. Name. Location, Circloville .... 20 Clrcleville. Claflin ....424 Claflin. Clay Center ....134 Clay C e n t e r . Chfton ....122 Clifton. . Climax . . . 4 1 1 Climax. Clinton ...233 Burden. Coats ....394 C o a t s . Codell ....418 Codell. Comanche ....295 C o l d w a t e r . Constellation..,. .... 95 F r e d o n i a . Coolidge ; ....316 Coolidge. .... 79 B u r l i n g a m e . Corner Stone.... ...219 L i t t l e R i v e r . Cosmos ....278 l i i o w a . Council Grove.. .... 36 Council G r o v e . CoyWlle .... 57 Coyville. Crescent ...133 Arkansas City. rinhn. .-^62 C u b a . Cunningham ....427 C u n n i n g h a m . Cyrus..... ....288 H o p e . ....432 Deerfleld. Delavan ....375 D e l a v a n . Delaware .... 96 W h i t e C h u r c h . Delia ...419 Delia. Delphian .... 44 ' G a r n e t t . Delphos ....202 D e l p h o s . Delta ... 77 M e d i c i n e L o d g e ...372 Denison. D e Soto ... 40 D e Soto. Devon ... 92 D e v o n . Dexter ...156 D e x t e r . 226 H a d d a m . Dirigo ... 83 E u d o r a . Doric Douglass ...151 Douglass. ...138 D o v e r . Downs ...204 D o w n s . Divight ...374 D w l g h t . Easton..; Edna Eldora Elkhart Ellinwood Ellsworth Emerald
... 45 ...345 ... 28 ...422 ...217 ...146 ...289 ...205 ...387 ... 12 ...413 ...437 ...131 ... 76 ...101 ... 88 ...115
Easton. Edna. Mapleton. Elkhart. ElUnwood. Ellsworth. Lakin.
Frederick Freeport Friendship Frontier Fulton
...300 ...166 ...106 ...336 ...107 ...392 ... 67 ...170 ...337 ...389 ...208 ...104 ...210
Liberal. Randolph. Eureka. Formoso. Independence. Fostoria. Frankfort. Linn. Frederick. Freeport. Haven. Washington. Fulton.
Galena Galva Gardner
...194 ...251 ... 65
Galena. Galva. Gardner.
Emporia Ensign Enterprise Erie Euclid Eureka Excelsior Fargo Farmers Fidelity Fortitude Fostoria Frankfort
Emmett. Emporia. Ensign. Enterprise. Fontana. Erie. Lyndon. Pleasanton. Unlontown.
512 Name. No. Garfield :...235 Gaylord 183 Geneseo 361 Gilead 144 Girard 93 Glasco..' 292 Glen Elder 294 Godfrey 124 Gofl.: 430 Golden Bule 90 Goodland 321 Gove City 302 Grainfleld 381 Grand View 376 Great Bend 15 Greeley 211 Greenleaf 232 Greenwood 163 Gypsum City 328 Halcyon 120 Halstead 46 Hamilton 301 Hamlin 185 Hancock 311 Harmony 94 Harper 206 Hartford 193 Harveyville 421 Haven 157 Havensville 34 Haviland....: 409 Hays 195 Hebron 314 Henri 190 Hepler 398 Hesperian Ill Hiattville 216 Hiawatha 35 HigUand 296 Hiram 68 Hoisington 331 Holton 42 Holyrood 343 Home 89 Hope 155 Horace 352 Horton 326 Hoxie 348 Hoyt 327 Hugoton 406 Huron 72 Hutchinson 445 Ionic 254 lola 38 Jamestown.. 227 Jeflerson 84 Jennings 360 Jewell •. 11 Johnson 441 Joppa 223 Kansas 307 Kanorado 443 Kaw 272 Kensington 405 Keystone 102 Kickapoo •.... 4 Kilwinning 265 Kincaid 338 King David 416 King Solomon 10 Kingsdown 447 Kiowa 293 Klrwln 175 LaCrosse 330 LaCygne 61
PROCEEDINGS Location. Leonard ville. Gaylord. Geneseo. Yates Center. Girard. Glasco. Glen Elder. Farlington. Goff. North Topeka. Goodland. Gove. Grainfleld. Bucklin. Great Bend. Greeley. Greenleaf. Fall River. Gypsum. Peabody. Halstead. Hamilton. Hamlin. Ft. Leavenworth. N eodesha. Harper. Hartford. Harveyville. South Haven. Havensville. Haviland. Hays. Gridley. Tonganoxie Hepler. Rossville. Hiattville. Hiawatha. Green. Ijeavenworth. Hoisington. Holton. Holyrood. Centralia.. Howard. Horace. Horton. Hoxie. Hoyt. Hugoton. Huron. Hutchinson. St. John. Ida. Jamestown. Winchester. Jennings. Jewell. Johnson. Leon. Herington. Kanorado. Kansas City. Kensington. Coffeyville. Potter. Pratt. Kincaid. Clianute. Leavenworth. Kingsdown. Greensburg. ICirwin. LaCrosse. LaCygne.
OF THE
Name. Lafayette LaHarpe Lake Landmark Lane Larned Latham Lawrence Leavenworth Lebanon Lebo Lecompton Lenexa Lenora Leoti ; Lewis Lincoln Lindsborg Linwood.. Logan Long Island Longton Lotus Luray Lyra
February, No. 16 325 50 218 339 167 401 6 2 221 152 420 135 181 340 220 154 397 241 264 231 26 286 153 256
Location. Manhattan. LaHarpe. Silver Lake. . Mound Valley. Lane. Lamed. Latham. Lawrence. Leavenworth. Scandia. Lebo. Lecompton. Lenexa. Lenora. Leoti. Lewis. Lincoln. Lindsborg. Linwood. Logan. Long Island. Longton. » ~ Blue Mound. Luray. McLouth.
Mackey 48 Macksville 371 Madison 196 Mankato 87 Maple City 342 Maple Hill 370 Marmaton 245 Marquette 353 Marysville 91 Mayetta 393 McCracken 58 McDonald 383 McKinley 41 McPherson 172 Medicine Valley....260 Melody 400 Melvem 22 Memphis 108 Meriden 236 Meridian 126 Milan 255 Millbrook 281 Miltonvale 242 Minneapolis 143 Minneola 431 Mistletoe 269 Moline 267 Morland 414 Morrill 373 Morton 258 Mound City 33 Moundridgo 346 Mountain Slope...186 Mount Hope 238 Mount Moriah 179 Mount Vernon 145 Mount Zion 266 Mulberrv 261 MulUnvllle 399 MiUvane 201 Munden 128 Muscotah 116 Mystic Tie 74
Efflngbam. Macksville. Madison. Mankato. Maple City. Maple Hill. Moran. . Marquette. Marysville. Mayetta. McCracken. McDonald. Pomona. McPherson. Lake City. Ottawa. Melvern. Garland. Meriden. Elk FaUs. Milan. Hill City. Miltonvale. Minneapolis. Minneola. Conway Springs. Moline. Morland. Morrill. Cheney. Mound City. Moundridge. Oberlin. Mount Hope. Kinsley. Beloit. Norton ville. Mulberry. MuUin ville. Mulvane. Mtmden. Muscotah. Augusta.
Naphtali Narka Natoma Nemaha Neosho Newahcuba New Albany
Alniena. Narka. Natoma. Coming. Le Roy. Stockton. New Albany.
310 349 390 13 27 189 81
1925-26. Name. No. Newton 142 Niclserson 43 Nine Miie 49 Ninnescah 230 Norcatur 317 Norton 199 Norwich 319 Oak 287 Oak Hiii 334 Oakley 253 Occidental 207 Oketo 25 Olathe 19 Olive 350 Olive Branch 212 Onaga 188 Oneida 323 Orient 51 Osage Valley. 24 Oskaloosa 14 Ottawa 18 Overland Park 436 Oxford 165 Pacific 29 Palestine 127 Palmyra 23 Paola 37 Paradise 290 Parker 341 Parkorville 168 Parsons 117 Patmos 97 Peace 243 Perry 415 Phillipsburg 184 Piper 385 Pittsburg 187 Plains 367 Polar Star 130 Pottawatomie 52 Powhattan 363 Prairie Queen 176 Preston 283 Pretty Prairie 428 Protection 384 Prudence 100 Quenemo 270 Quinter 410 Randall 304 Reno 140 Republic 123 Rexford 442 Richmond 426 Ridgeway 62 Rising Sun 8 Robinson 159 Rob Morris 332 R. E. Sherman 369 Rosalia 433 Rosedale 333 Royal 192 Russell 177 Sabetha 162 Saflordville 395 Salem 228 Sallna 60 Saltville 59 Samaria 298 Santa Fe 312 Saqui 160 Satanta 446 Scammon 351 ScottsvlUe 249 Scranton 407 Sedgwick 139 Selden 423 Seneca 39 Severance 313 Sharon Springs ....417
GRAND
LODGE OF
Location. Newton. Nickerson. Lansing. Kingman. Norcatur. Norton. Norwich. Lebanon. Oak Hill. Oakley. Alton. Oketo. Olathe. Elgin. Colony. Onaga. Oneida. Topeka. Osawatomie. Oskaloosa. Ottawa. Overland Park. Oxford. Humboldt. Edgerton. Baldwin. Paola. Plain ville. Parker. Parkerville. Parsons. El Dorado. Louisburg. Perry. Phillipsburg. Piper. Pittsburg. Plains. Netawaka. St. Marys. Powhattan. Clyde. Cimarron. Pretty Prairie. Protection. Columbus. Quenemo. Quinter. Randall. Hutchinson. Republic. Rexford. Richmond. Overbrook. Port Scott. Robinson. Preston. Kansas City. Rosalia. Kansas City. Lyons. Russell. Sabetha. SaffordvlUe. Esbon. Sallna. Barnard. Wilson. Sublette. Osborne. Satanta. Scammon. Scottsville. Scranton. Sedgwick. Selden. Seneca. Severance. Sharon Springs.
KANSAS.
Name. Shawnee Signal Siloam Sincerity Smithton Soldier Solomon City Spear vllle Spivey Spring Hill St. Bernard Saint Francis St. John's St. Thomas Stafford Stanley.. Sterling Stohrville Sumner Summerfleld Sunflower Sutton Sylvan Grove Sylvia Syracuse Temple Thayer Topeka Towanda Troy Turner Turon Tuscan Twin Grove Tyrlan Tyro Ulysses Union Unity Urbana Valley Center Valley Falls Vermillion Vesper Virginia Vulcan Wakarusa Wa-Keeuey Wakefield Waldron Wallace Walnut City; Walnut Valley Wamego Washington Wathena Waverly Webb Wellington Wellsville Western Star AVest Gate Westmoreland Wetmore AVhite City White Cloud Whiting Wichita Wilmore Wilsey Windom Winfleld Woodson Wyandotte Xenia Zenda Zeredatha
513 No. 54 141 225 241 1 240 105 388 347 56 222 404 113 306 252 ..444 171 368 203 354 86 85 359 391 309 237 149 17 30 55 425 358 82 213 ;.246 386 435 7 :273 239 364 21 320 136 315 229 402 148 396 377 318 215 191 75 5 64 244 275 150 356 174 438 257 53 380 78 250 99 412 382 276 110 121 3 47 378 80
Location. Shawnee. Osage City. Topeka. Simpson. Highland. Soldier. Solomon. Spearville. Spivey. Spring Hill. Dodge City. Saint Francis. Concordia. Colby. Stafford. Stanley. Sterling. Bluff City. Caldwell. Summerfleld. Wichita. Waterville. Sylvan Grove. Sylvia. Syracuse. McCune. Thayer. Topeka. Towanda. Troy. Turner. Turon. Neosho Falls. Severy. Garden City. Tyro. Ulysses. Junction City. Clearwater. Urbana. Valley Center. Valley Falls. Vermillion. Sedan. Savonburg. Walnut. Wakarusa. Wa-Keeney. Wakefield. Waldron. Wallace. Bush Center. Ness City. Wamego. Atchison. Wathena. Waverly, Meade. . Wellington. Wellsville. Smith Center. Kansas City.' Westmoreland. Wetmore. White City. White Cloud. Whiting. Wichita. Wilmore. Wilsey. Windom. Winfleld. Toronto. Kansas City. Xenia. Zenda. Cottonwood Falls.
514
PROCEEDINGS
OF
THE
February,
LIST OF LODGES BY COUNTIES. Location.
County,
Name.
AUen
No.
20 38 325 245 315
lola
212 44 211 338 305 6 158 48 72 4 116
Potter Muscotah
Olaflin
Delta Claflin
Great Bend Hoisington
Hoisinf-'ton
ii^
Fort Scott
Fulton
263 278 260 77 424 217 15
331 268 92 8 210 108 216 28 115 47 185 35 326 373 363 159
Butler
74 439 151 97 401 223 434 30 280
White Water
Elgin
Saflfordville
80 396
Olive
355 350 136
Scammon Saint Francis
Saint Francis
71 100 194 351 274 404
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE OF
515
KANSAS.
L I S T OF LODGES BY COUNTIES—Continued, County. Clark..
Location.
Name.
No.
Minneola Ashland Clay Center.... Clifton Green Oak Hill Wakefield
Minneola Ashland Clay Center Clifton Highland Oak Hill Wakefield
431 277 134 122 296334 396
Cloud..
Clyde Concordia Glasco Jamestown Miltonvale
Prairie Queen.... St. John's Glasco Jamestown Miltonvale
176 113 292 227 242
CoBey..
Burlington Griuioi' Lebo LeRoy Waverly
Burlington Lebo Neosho Waverly
152 27 244
Comanche..
Cold water Protection Wllmore
Comanche Protection Wllmore
295 384 412
Cowley..
Arkansas City, Burden Dexter Maple City Winfleld
Crescent Clinton Dexter Maple City Winfield
133 233 156 342 110
Crawford..
Arcadia Arma Cherokee Farllngton Girard Hepler McCune Mulberry Pittsburg Walnut
Arcadia Arma Cherokee Godfrey Girard Hepler Temple Mulberry Pittsburg Vulcan
329 408 119 124 93 398 237 261 187 229
Decatur..
Jennings Oberlin Norcatur
Jennings Mountain Slope Norcatiu-
360 186 317
Dickinson..
Abilene Enterprise Herington Hope Solomon
Benevolent Enterprise Kansas Cyrus Solomon City....
98 437 307 288 105
Doniphan..
Bendena Doniphan Highland Severance Troy Wathena White Cloud...
Bendena Arcana Smithton Severance Troy Wathena White Cloud
440 31 1 313 55 64 78
Douglas.,
Baldwin Eudora Lawrence Lawrence Lecompton
Palmyra Doric Lawrence Acacia Lecompton
23 83 6 9 420
Edwards..
Kinsley Lewis
Mt. Morlah Lewis
179 220
Olay...
66 ^%
A
516
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
LIST OF LODGES BY COUNTIES—Continued.
County. Elk..
Ellis Ellsworth Finney Ford
Franklin..
Geary Gove Graham I
Grant Gray Greeley Greenwood
Hamilton.. Harper.....
Harvey,.
Haskell Hodgeman.,
Location. Elk Falls Grenola Howard Longton Moline Elhs Hays Ellsworth Holyrood Wilson
.'.
G arden City.. Bucklin Dodge City.... Kingsdown Spearville Lane Ottawa Ottawa Pomona Richmond Wellsville "Williamsburg.. Junction City Gove Grainiield Quinter Hill City Morland Ulysses Cimarron Ensign Horace Climax Eureka Pall River Madison Severy Hamilton Coolidge Syracuse Anthony Attica Bluff City Freeport Harper Waldron Burrton Halstead Newton Sedgwick........ Satanta Sublette Jetmore
Name.
No.
Meridian Canopy Hope Longton Moline
126 248 155 26 267
Apollo Hays. Ellsworth Holyrood Samaria Tyrian
297 195
Grand View. St. Bernard. Kingsdown.. Spearville....:
376 222 447 388
Lane Ottawa Melody McKinley.... Richmond... Wellsville Anchor Union
339 18 400 41 426 356 224
Gove City... Grainfleld Quinter
302 381 410
Millbrook Morland Ulysses Preston Ensign Horace Climax Fidelity Greenwood.. Madison Twin Grove, Hamilton Coolidge....'... Syracuse Anthony Attica Stohrville Freeport Harper Waldron Burrton Halstead Newton Sedgwick Satanta Santa Fe Alpha
281 414
146 343 298 246
435 283 413 352 411 106 163 196 213 301 316 309 200 262 368 389 206 377 182 46 142 139 446 312 282
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE OF
517
KANSAS.
L I S T OF LODGES BY COUNTIES—Continued. County.
Name.
Location.
No.
Jackson,.
Circlevllle.. Delia Denison Holton Hoyt Mayetta Netawaka.. Soldier Whiting
Circleville.. Delia Denison Holton Hoyt Mayetta Polar Star.. Soldier Whiting
20 419 372 42 327 393 130 240 250
Jefferson..
Meriden Norton ville.. Oskaloosa McLouth Valley Falls.. Winchester... jr'erry
236 266 14 256 21 84
Jewell..
Burr Oak.. Esbon Formoso.... Jewell Manliato.. Randall....
Meriden Mt. Zion Oskaloosa Lyra Valley Falls.. Jefferson i-erry Burr Oak.. Salem Formoso.... Jewell Mankato.. Randall
178 228 336 11 87 304
Johnson..
De Soto Edgerton Gardner Lenexa Olathe Overland Park.. Shawnee Spring Hill Stanley
De Soto Edgerton Gardner Lenexa Olathe Overland Park.. Shawnee Spring Hill Stanley
40 127 65 135 19 436 54 56 444
Kearny
Deerfleld.. Lakin
Deerfleld.. Emerald...
432 289
Kingman..
Cunningham.. Kingman Norwich Spivey Zenda
Cunningham.. Ninnescah Norwich. ' Spivey Zenda
427 230 319 347 378
Kiowa..
Greensburg.. Haviland Mullin ville...
Kiowa Haviland Mullin ville..
293 409 399
Labette..
Altamont Chetopa Edna Mound Valley.. Oswego Parsons
Altamont.... Chetopa Edna Landmark... Adams Parsons
69 73 345 213 63 117
Lane
Dighton..
Barney.
279
Leavenworth..
Boling Easton Fort Leavenworth.. Lansing Leavenworth Leavenworth Leavenworth Linwood Tonganoxie
Boling Easton Hancock Nine Mile Leavenworth.... King Solomon.. Hiram Linwood Henri
365 45 311 49 2 lO 68 241 190
Lincoln..
Barnard Lincoln Sylvan Grove..
Saltvllle Lincoln Sylvan Grove..
59 154 359
518
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
LIST OF LODGES BY COUNTIES—Continued. County.
Location.
Name.
No.
Lilnn..
Blue Mound.. La Cygne Mound City.. Parker Pleasanton
Lotus La Cygne Mound City.. Parker Eureka
286 61 33 341 88
Logan..
Oakley..
Oakley..
253
Lyon...,
Allen Amerlcus., Emporia... Hartford..
Allen Amerlcus.. Emporia... Hartford...
335 109 12 193
Marlon..
Florence.. Marion.... Peabody..
Advance.. Center..... Halcyon..
114 147 120
Marshall..
Axtell Beattie Blue Rapids.. Frankfort Irving Marys ville Oketo Summerfield.. Vermillion..... Waterville
Axtell Beattie Blue Rapids.. Frankfort Blue Valley... Marysville Oketo Summerfield.. Vermillion Sutton
234 259 169 67 112 91 25 354 320 85
McPherson..
Canton Galva McPherson... Moundridge.. Windom Marquette Lindsborg
Canton Galva McPherson.... Moundridge.. Windom Marquette Lindsborg
197 251 172 346 276 358 397
Meade..
Meade.. Plains...
Webb.. Plains..
275 367
Miami...
Fontana Loulsburg Osawatomie.. Paola
Equity Peace Osage Valley.. Paola
131 243 24 37
Mitchell..
Belolt Oawker City.. Glen Elder Simpson Scottsville
Mt. Vernon.... Cawker City.. Glen Elder Sincerity Scottsville
145 125 294 214 249
Montgomery..
Caney Cherryvale GoffeyvlUe Elk City Independence.. Tyro
Caney Cherryvale.. Keystone Carson Fortitude Tyro
324 137 102 132 107 386
Morris..
Burdick Council Grove.. Delavan Dwight Parkervllle White City Wilsey
Burdick Council Grove.. Delavan Dwight Parkervllle White City Wilsey
429 36 375 374 168 380 382
Morton..
Elkhart..
Elkhart..
422
1925-26.
GRAND LODGE OF
519
KANSAS.
LIST OF LODGES BY COUNTIES—Continued. County.
Name.
Location.
Goff
GofE
No,
89 13 430 323^ 162 39 53
Erie
103 416 76 149 239
Ness City
191 181 199 rr<
70' 101 22: 141' 62270*
4or
Phillips
257 Pratt
Pratt
Reno 445 Turon
Turon
358
520
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
LIST OF LODGES BY COUNTIES—Continued. County.
Name.
Location.
No. 129 362 128 349 123 221
Rice
308 247 337 361 219 192 171
Garfield
Riley Riley
235 16 166 344
Codell
Codell
290 189 418
Walnut City
330 58 215
Rush Bunker Hill
Blue Hill
291 198 153 177 209 328 60 284
Scott City.
Albert Pike Bestor G. Brown
258 273 238 364 86 99 303 433 300 32 138 111 50 17 51 90 225 402
Topeka (North) Hoxie
348 423
Goodland
321 443
Smith Smith Center
Oak "Western Star
183 405 287 174
1925-26;
GRAND
LODGE OF
521
KANSAS.
L I S T OF LODGES BY COUNTIES—Concluded. County.
Name.
Location.
Stafford St. J o h n
Stafford
No. 371 252 254 441 406
Belle P l a i n e Caldwell
Belle P l a i n e
Oxford Wellington Colby
285 173 203 269 255 201 165 157 15U
306 442 148
M a p l e Hill
M a p l e Hill
161 357 205 421 370 318 417 232 226 170 104 340
"Wichita Altoona Buffalo
118 403 379 57 95 94 81 82 121 144
Roger E . Sherman Piper "White C h u r c h
366 3 271 272 322 333 369 438 385 425 96
Big Springs
Auraria
Allen
Location.
Wheaton
Lecompton
Denver City
Allen
Location.
Sedgwicl£
County.
Pottawatomie..
McPherson
Allen
Name.
Opolis
L e a v e n w o r t h . . . Adeipha Geary Douglas 1870
1868 1858
1860
1866
Disp. BeVtl.
Feb. Oct. Feb. Feb. Oct. Oct.
1891 1807 1891 1887 1859 1800
9 Oct. 19. 1857
15, 1861
18, 15, 18. 16, 18, 10,
Chartered.
37 Oct
335 62 253 285 26 30
No.
Remarks.
CHARTERED.
(DEFUNCT.)
J a n . 3, 1912 Oct. 14, 1861 Oct. 2 1 , 1863
Oct. 2 1 . 1869
1, 1923 j Consolidated w i t h M t . H o p e
Remarks.
( D r o p p e d from roll a c c o u n t or< ganizaticn G r a n d Lodge of ( Colorado in 1862. > ( D i s p e n s a t i o n issued a s Big Oct. 16, 1867 < Springs Lodge, b u t n a m e after( w a r d s changed t o Shawnee.
Mar.
Charter Revoked.
j N o meetings were held, a n d dispensation was r e t u r n e d ) to the Grand Master.
TDlspensation was r e t u r n e d t o G r a n d M a s t e r , ^ I t h a s l a t e < m e n t t h a t owing t o t h e lodge being located so n e a r (.Auraria Lodge, it was deemed b e s t t o h a v e . b u t one lodge.
I M a s t e r r e p o r t e d t h a t n o meetings h a d been held, a n d 1 owing t o absence of m e m b e r s , a n d need of s u i t a b l e r o o m , I dispensation was r e t u r n e d .
Charter Surren de'red.
1887 1898 1904
1881 1884
1900
1859
Disp. Bev'k'd.
CHARTERED LODGES
18991868 1857 1878 1884 1868 1885 1896 1903
1860
1857
Denver
Leavenworth.;.. D e l a w a r e
1923
Disp. Issued.
1863
Allen
Name.
Coffey
Countv-
DEFUNCT LODGES.
LODGES UNDER DISPENSATION, BUT NEVER
o
Co
to
o o
to
Oi
Golden City..
Golden City
16
20 21, 18 21
1865
26 Oct. 16 1867 13 Oct. 18 1858
Leavenworth... Landmark...
Lecompton..
Leavenworth
1862
34 Oct. 21 50 Oct. 16 1866
1882 1883 1859 1876
Feb. Feb. Oct. Oct.
15 22 18 18
69 216 25 170
34 Oct. 16, 1860
122 Oct. 16. 1872
46 Oct. 17
Leavenworth.... Cavalry
Indianola..
1860
18, 18 21,
1889 .1898 1890 1874 1876 1886 1874 1870 1874 1858 1894
20 17 19 21,
18. 1891
67 Oct. 20 1868 301 Feb. 15 1
337 Feb. 313 Feb. 325 Feb. 325 Feb. 1.53 Oct. 164 Oct. 164 Feb. 148 Oct. 87 Oct. 152 Oct. 12 Ont. 353 Feb. 20 Oct.
Leavenworth
Hiawatha High Prairie Ida
Alpha..
Fort Gibson
Star Triune Leavenworth.... High Prairie.. Ida
Rising Sun..
Fort Scott
Washington
Frankfort.. Lily
Pottawatomie.. Blaine Bluff City Bluff City Ford Bucklin Cato Chautauqua .... Cedar Vale Chautauqua .... Myrtle Butler Whitewater... .\sMar Wyandotte Composite BreckenridKe.... Emporia Enterprise Elk Creek
Frankfort Freeport
Blaine Blufl City Bluff City Bucklin Cato Cedar Vale... Cedar Vale Clifford Clinton Edwards ville Emporia Enterprise Elk City
("Consolidated with Westmoro•(land Lodge No. 257. May 18, (.1894. Feb. 18, 1897 Feb. 19, 1903 j Charter issued direct by Grand j Lodge, February 17. 1808. Sept. 21, 1896 j Consolidated -nith Godfrey . 1883 .Ian. .17, 1S94 j Consolidated with Hal: yon 1 Lodge No. 120, Oct. 18. 1876. Mar. 22, 1879 Oct. 15, 1879 Oct. 21, 1863 Feb. 16, 1910 (Records fail to show county In Oct. 21, 1863 (.supposed to be in Jackson. Oct. 18, 1876 i Consolidated with Bluff City ! Lodge No. 313, June 18, 1892. f Consolidated with Bourbon •< LodgeNo. 8,and name changed (,to Rising Sun Lodge No. 8. 1 Dropped from roll accoimt or•< ganization Grand Lodge Ind. (Ter. inl878. 1 Dropped from roll account or<(radoin ganization 1862.Grand Lodge OoloMay 9, 1919 Dec. 17, 1883 Dec. 17, 1892 Dec. 17, 1881 (LocationchangedtoSilverLake, Oct. 17. 1877 •(Oct. 21. 1868. Name changed (to Great Light, Oct. 20. 1869. ) Consol. with King Solomon ) Lodge No. 10, Oct. 18, 1876. (•Dispensation issued as Land•{ mark Lodge, but charter Issued Oct. 19, 1870 (.in name of St. John's Lodge. Oct. 17, 1865 to
Co
o b
b
C5
County.
Name.
Coffey
Miami
Atchison.. Linn Jefferson..
Paola
Pardee..
Paris PerryvlUe..
Franklin,.
Paris Perry
Lincoln
Miami
Ottumwa
Ottawa
VaUey.,,. Astra Mission Osage Valley.,,.
Douglas., Osage Neosho... Miami
Ottumwa..
VaUey
Douglas.,
N. Lawrence.. N. Lawrence Olivet Osage Mission... Osawatomle
Ottawa
Magnolia
Harvey,..,
Nevada
Newton
Nevada Olty..
Montgomery... Liberty Marion Llnconville McPherson. Phoenix Miami Loulsburg Loulsburg Lyons Bice Lyons Montana Labette.... Evergreen Monticello Johnson.., Monticello Mt. Pleasant Atchison.. Mt. Pleasant..., Neosho.Bapids. Lyon Neosho Bapids
Liberty Llnconville Lindsborg
Location.
Chartered.
Feb. 15, 1888
Feb. 21, 1895 Jan 13, 1888
Charter. Revoked.
1
j Name changed in 1870 to Ionic I Lodge. r Dropped from roll account or-{ganization Grand Lodge of (.Colorado in 1862. j Consolidated with Newton ! Lodge No. 142. June 28, 1901. ) Consolidated with Lawrence ( Lodge No. 6, Oct. 18,1876.
j Consol. with Keystone Lodge ) No. 102, March 22. 1918. First disp'n issued April 7, 1864, recalled by G.-. M.-., second Sept. 27, 1864.
Remarks.
22 Oct. 21, 1862 Oct. 18, 1871 52 Oct. 16, 1867 Oct. 17, 1877
I Lodge.
36 Oct. 15. 1861 231 Feb. 20, 1884 30 Oct. 16, 1867 30 Feb. 16. 1882 Mar. 5, 1887 20, 1902 Feb. 20. 1908 363 Feb. Oct. 20, 1870 J a n . " i 9 r i 8 9 7 92 (Disp'n issued as Osawatomle Oct. 21, 1863 J. Lodge, but chartered as Osage 24 Oct. 18, 1859 (.Valley Lodge. f Consol. with Franklin Lodge ^No. 18, Nov. 24, 1906, as Oct. 17, 1872 128 (Ottawa Lodge No. 18. ) Charter revoked Oct. 21,1863, Oct. 18, 1858 11 Oct. 18, 1871 } but restored Oct. 16. 1866. j Consolidated with Faola Lodge Oct. 21, 1874 69 I N O . 37, Oct. 18, 1876. i Dispensation issued as Lincoln •< Lodge, but chartered as Center 69 Oct. 21, 1868 Oct. 17. 1871
18, 1879
20, 1875
6, 1894
5, 1888
1, 1896
Charter. Surrendered.
Oct. 17, 1872 Feb. 20, 1889 Jan. Feb. 19, 1885 Dec. Oct. IG, 1879 Dec. Feb. 17, 1881 Oct. 19. 1871 Oct. 16, 1866 Oct. Oct. 17, 1867 77 Oct. 21, 1869 Oct.
123 315 253 180 192 80 43 58
No.
CHARTERED LODGES (DEFUNCT)—Concluded.
o H
o
to
8
to o
to
Saline
Franklin
Salt Lake City..
Pratt
Mt. Moriah
Owen A. Bassett Pomona Richflcld John H. Brown...
367 138 303 216
Feb. Oct. Feb. Feb. 17. 16, 15, 22,
70 Oct. 21, Saratoga 216 Feb. 18, Feb. 22. Perfect Square.... 220 39 Oct. 18, 152 Feb. 15, Leavenworth.... IS Oct. 18, 108 Oct. 19, 15 Oct. 18, 59 Oct. 17, Timber Ridge.... Leavenworth... Blooming Grove.. 41 Oct. 21, Trading Post 181 Oct. 16, Olive Twin Falls Greenwood 243 Feb. 19, Valley Center.... Ark Virginia City 43 Dec. 20, Virginia City .... Walton 323 Feb. 19. Walton Wlnfleld 58 Feb. 20, Wlnfleld
Pittsburg Pomona Blchfleld Salina
1883 1874 1887 1905
Jan. 24, 1902
Sept. 15. Oct. 21, Jan. 6, Dec. 10,
Sept. 3, 1887
1890 Aug. 5, 1895 1889
1864
1886 1883 1863 1882 1859 1871 1858 1867 1863 1879 1885
1868
1904 1872 Nov. 16, 1901 1888 Feb. 17, 1892 1894
Feb. 18, 1885 1 Montana in 1866. f Consol. with Adelphi Lodge ^No. 110, Feb. 19. 1903, as (Wlnfleld Lodge No. 110.
(Dropped from roll account or-
N o record of disp'n having Oct. 21, 1863 /Ibeen issued.
Feb. 17. 1892 Feb. 20, 1908 Oct. 20, 1875
( Consol. with Salina Lodge No. 1 60, April 29, 1907. (Dropped from roll account or.{ganization Grand Lodge of (Utah in 1872.
j Consolidated with Pittsburg 1 Lodge No. 187, July 29,1911.
to
en
It.
o
o t) o ts
ft
526
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
GRAND LODGES I N CORRESPONDENCE WITH T H E GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS; ALSO T H E NAMES AND ADDRESSES OF GRAND SECRETARIES. Alabama Arizona
GEORGE A. BEAUCHAMP GEORGE J. ROSKRUGE
Montgomery. Tucson.
Arkansas
FAY HEMPSTEAD
Little Rock.
California Colorado Connecticut
JOHN WHICHER WILLIAM W . COOPER GEORGE A. K I E S
San Francisco. Denver. Hartford.
_ ,
.
Delaware
JOHN F. ROBINSON
„
fP. 0 . Box 1227, jwilmington.
District of Columbia....J. CLAUDE KEIPER
Washington.
Florida Georgia Idaho Illinois Indiana
Jacksonville. Macon. Boise. Decatur. Indianapolis.
WILBER P. WEBSTER FRANK F . BAKER...; CURTIS F . P I K E OWEN SCOTT WILLIAM H . SWINTZ
Iowa
CHARLES C , HUNT
Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland
ALBERT K . WILSON FRED W . HABDWICK JOHN A. DAVILLA CHARLES B . DAVIS GEORGE COOK.
,,
„
,
Massachusetts
„ , ^^
Cedar Rapids. Topeka: Louisville. New Orleans. Portland. Baltimore.
f209 Mas. Temple,
FREDERICK W . HAMILTON..-^ J , ^
Michigan
Lou B. WINSOR
Grand Rapids.
Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana
JOHN FISHEL EDWARD L . FAUCETTB FRANK R . JESSE LUTHER T . HAUBERG
St. Paul. Meridian. St. Louis. Helena, Box 896.
Nebraska Nevada
LEWIS E . SMITH { ? o T i . Temple. EDWARD D . VANDERLiETH....Reno.
New Jersey
ISAAC CHERRY
New Mexico
ALPHEUS A. K E E N
New York
ROBERT J . K E N WORTHY.... |j^g^^°YorkVity.
North Carolina North Dakota _. Otio Oklahoma Oregon
WILLIAM W . WILLSON Raleigh. WALTER L . STOCKWELL..: Fargo. XI o T rP.O.Box755, HARRY S. JOHNSON jcincinnati. W M . M . ANDERSON Guthrie. D. RuFUS CHENEY Portland.
{
Trenton. Albuquerque.
Pennsylvania
JOHN A. PERRY
Philadelphia.
Rhode Island
S. PENROSE WILLIAMS
Providence.
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
527
South Carolina South Dakota
O. FRANK HART GEORGE A. PETTIGREW
Columbia. Sioux Falls.
Tennessee Texas
STITH M . CAIN WILLIAM B . PEARSON
Nashville. Waco.
"Utah
SAM H . GOODWIN
Salt Lake City.
Vermont Virginia
HENRY H . ROSS CHARLES A. NESBITT
Burlington. Richmond.
Washington
HORACE WALTER TYLER
Tacoma.
West Virginia Wisconsin
GEORGE S . LAIDLEY W M . W . PERRY
Charleston. Milwaukee.
Wyoming
'
JOSEPH M . LOWNDES
Alberta
S. Y. TAYLOR
British Columbia
W. A. DEWOLF-SMITH
Canada
W M . MCGREGOR LOGAN
^
^
Casper.
Calgary. (P. O. Box 910, j ^ ^ ^ Westminster. Hamilton.
rCasilla2867,
<^hile
AGUSTIN T . PALMA
jsantiago.
Colombia
ALLAN GOMES CASSERES....-^ g^^.^.^^^
Costa Rica, C. A
GEORGE F . BOWDEN
CApartado 61, -JJ^
......San Jose.
Cuba
AURELIOMlRANDAALVAREzKp^j.^^^'^j ^3
Ecuador
NICOLAS AGUIRRE BRETON....Guayaquil.
England
P. COLVILLE SMITH
("Freemason Hall,
"^London
Guatemala
IRVING STAHL
Honduras
S.HERNANDEZ YHERNANDEZ.Tegucigalpa. (Freemason Hall,
Ireland Manitoba
HENRY C . SHELLARD
JAMES A. OVAS
Mexico (York G.-.L.-.)CHARLES I. ARNOLD
Guatemala, C. A.
-j j^yj^^jj
Winnipeg.
f P. 0 . Box 1986. •{ j^jg^ico City.
New Brunswick
J. TWINING HARTT
New South Wales
DAVID CUNNINGHAM
| cagtiereagh St.
St. John
New Zealand
GEORGE BARCLAY
I Auckland
Nova Scotia
JAMES C . JONES
Panama
D. LESLIE SASSO
Halifax. (Apartado 350,
f P. O. Box 1144,
(Panama.
528
PROCEEDINGS
„
OF THE
„
February,
„
,
Peru
LUIS F . DE LAS CASAS
(Apartado No. 587, jLima
Philippine Islands
NEWTON C . COMFORT
(P. 0 . Box 990, ) Manila
Prince Edward Isl ^ „. Puerto Rico
ERNEST KEMP . ^ r„ JOSE G . TORRES
Quebec
W. WALTER WILLIAMSON..,.| Montreal
Queensland Salvador, C. A
CHARLES H . HARLBY JOAQUIN ZALDIVAR
Brisbane, Box 675. San Salvador.
Saskatchewan
W. B. TATE
Regina.
Scotland
DAVID REID
South Australia
CHARLES R . J. GLOVER
Tasmania
W. H. STRUTT
Charlottetown. fP- O. Box 747, "JSan Juan f P. O. Box 3172,
Edinburgh.
Adelaide. f 117 Macquarie St., JHobart.
Victoria
WILLIAM STEWART
Melbourne.
Western Australia
J. D. STEVENSON
Perth.
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
529
GRAND REPRESENTATIVES OF T H E GRAND LODGE O F KANSAS NEAR OTHER GRAND LODGES. Alabama
,
Alberta Arizona Arkansas
R.'. W . - . J O H N P H I L I P MELVIN
Tuscaloosa.
British Columbia
Calgary. Douglas. Camden. (Vancouver M.'.W.-. ANDREW IVfcC. CHEERYjggg Rich JA ot
California ^ , Canada
System not recognized. „ „ , „ , , „ R.-. W.-.R. H. SPENCER
Chile
R.-. W.-. MAXIMIANO FLORES
Colombia
R.-. W.-.ViRGiLio DE LA CRUZ
Colorado
R.-. W.-. WILLIAM H . SANFORD
Connecticut Costa Rica
R.'. W.-. HOWARD A. MIDDLETON....Broad Brook. R.-. W.-.ADOLFO CANAS San Jose.
Cuba
Delaware
R.-. W.-.S. J. BLAIR M.'.W.-.JAMES H . BARRETT M.'.W.-.Louis BAUERLBIN
(Box 97, Trenton, (Ontario (Santiago, i Casilla 2895 TApartado 72, •JBarranquilla. Denver.
R.-. W . - . F E L I X V. PREVAL
Havana.
;.M.'. W.-. A. VICTOR HUGHES
{ Ecuador
Wilmington. Washington, Masonic Temple.
M . ' . W . - . J U A N MOLINARI
Guayaquil.
Florida
R.-. W.-.HARRY B . MINIUM
Jacksonville.
Georgia „ ,
R.-. W.-.P. T. MCCUTCHEN „ „ „
Franklin. (Pasaje Aguirre
Guatemala
SAMUEL E . F R A N C O
-iNo.S.Guatemala.
Honduras...
R.'. W.-.FEDERICO C . CANALES
Idaho
M.'.W.".SHERMAN M . COFFIN
England
Illinois Indiana Iowa
Boise. (Chicago, M.-.W.-. GEORGE M . MOULTON.J-gg VJ state St
.....R.-. W.-. RUDOLF H . HORST System not recognized.
South Bend.
Ireland
R.'. W.'.RICHARD, WALSH
Kentucky Louisiana
System not recognized. R.-. W.-.HENRY S . WESTON
Shreveport.
Maine Manitoba Maryland
.R.-. W.-.ARCHIE L . TALBOT R.'. W.-.JABEZ MILLER R.-. W.'. JACOB ROHRBACK
Lewiston. Winnipeg. Frederick.
Massachusetts
System not recognized.
Mexico (York G.".L.-.)R.-. W.-.JOHN I. NEWELL Michigan
R.-. W . - . W M . H . GALLAGHER
Dublin.
(Apartado No. 40, ITampico Allegan.
(St. Paul,
Minnesota
R.-. W.'. MONTREVILLE J.BBOWN-^ g^g 545^ g^ g
Mississippi
R.'. W.-.ROBERT W . HINTON, jR...Lumberton.
g
530 Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Brunswick New Jersey
New Mexico New South Wales New York New Zealand North Carolina North Dakota Nova Scotia... Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Panama Pennsylvania Philippine Islands Prince Edward Isl Puerto Rico Quebec Queensland Rliode Island Salvador Saskatchewan....
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
R.". W. • . C H A R L E S L . WOODS RoUa. M.\ W. . ROBERT J. HATHAWAY Glendive. Hastings. R.-. W.'. H E N R Y H . H E I L E R R.'. W.'. CHARLES A. THOMPSON ....Pioche. R.-. W.' . GESNER A . TAYLOR Dorchester. 149 Prospect St., R.'. W.-. ARTHUR POTTERTON (Jersey City. System not recognized. R.-. W.''.ALFRED J. BURBIDGE Sydney. Petersburg. R.;. W.'.SIDNEY M O R S E fP. 0 . Box 2, R.-. W.'.EARNEST WARNES JGreymouth. Chapel Hill. R.-. W.'. M . C. S. N O B L E S Churchs Ferry. R.-. W.'. H A N S A. M O E Halifax. R.-. W.-.. J O H N G . MITCHELL Springfield. R.-. W.: CHARLES L . M I N O R R.'. W.. MAHLON F . MANVILLE ....Ada. Portland. R.-. W.'.WALTER O . H A I N E S Colon. R.'. W.. .ABRAHAM FRANKBL System not recognized. f City Hall, • . H A R V E Y A. BoRDNER....|j^j^„ii^ R.'. W.'
R.". W..WILLIAM G . MCDONALD..Montague. R.-. W.'. FEDERICO VALL-SPINOSA.San Juan. Quebec. M.-.W, '.-ED'WARD A . EVANS ("Brisbane, R.'. W..JAMES C . ROBERTS JAdelaide St. R.". W.. J O H N R . D E N N I S ;..R.-. W,. CARLOS D'AUBUISSON R.'. W..W. M. MARTIN
Providence. San Salvador. Regina.
fThe Frond, "[Uddingston. ( Adelaide,
Scotland
R.-. W.-.J. S. M. GRIEVE
South Australia
R.-. W.'. WILLIAM HENRY ESSEX-j ( R.-. W.'.ARTHUR V. WILLIAMS R.-. W.'.JAMES B . VAUGHN
South Carolina South Dakota Tasmania Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Victoria
Bank of Adelaide, King William St. Charleston. Castlewood.
, , f Collins St., R.'. W.'. D A V I D W . W A T S O N jnobart. R.'. W.'.HALLUM W . GOODLOE Nashville. Jefferson. M.-.W.''.WILLIAM CLARK Salt Lake City. M.-.W.''.ARTHUR C . WHERRY Burlington. M.-.W.' . H E N R Y H . Ross . f 74 Moor St., R.-. W.- .EDWARD THOMAS Apps.-jpj^.^
Western Australia
Richmond. R.-. W.'. H E N R Y M . BOYKIN R.'. W.'. W A L T E R J. THOMPSON ....Tacoma. f Wesley Manse, R.-. W.- .FRED S. FINCH I Midland Junct.
West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming
R.-. W.- . P A R E H . LORENTZ M.-. W.-. DAVID HARLOWS System not recognized.
Virginia Washington
Buckhannon. Milwaukee.
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
531
GRAND REPRESENTATIVES OP OTHER GRAND LODGES NEAR T H E GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS.
Alabama Alberta Arkansas
W.-.JOHN M . KINKEL W.-.PAUL M . MARTIN W.-. CLAYTON LEHMAN
Topeka. Highland. Newton.
Arizona British Columbia
W.'.W. AMER BURNETT W.'. A. PHILLIP LAPHAM
Oberlin. Wetmore.
California Canada
M . ' . W . - . W M . EASTON HUTCHISON W.'. HUBERT H . HUBBARD
Garden City. Galena.
Chile
W.-.FRED ROYALFORD
Fort Scott.
Colombia Colorado
W.'. ELLSWORTH B . SEWELL, JR W.'. LAUREN D . RIGG
Topeka. Leon.
Connecticut Costa Rica Cuba
W.\ CLARENCE R . ATEN R.-. W.-. CHARLES N . FOWLER W.-.ROY H . CLOSSEN
Delaware
W.-. ELMER S . NANCE
Dodge City. Salina. Coffeyville. Oswego.
Dist. of Columbia..R.-. W.-.FERRIS M . HILL
Emporia.
Ecuador England
W.-.JAY B . KIRK R.-. W.-.ALBERT K . WILSON
lola. Topeka.
Florida
M.-.W.-.ELMER F . STRAIN
Georgia
W.'. GLICK FOCKELE
Guatemala Honduras
W . ' . L U C I E N L . CONSTANT ...W.". FRANK T). SPERRY
Idaho
Topeka. Le Roy.
Belle Plaine. Ellsworth.
W.'.STBPHBN A. D. GEAUQUB ......Manhattan.
Illinois
M.-.W.-.HUGH P . FARRELLY
Chanute.
Indiana Ireland
M . ' . W . - . O W E N J. WOOD W.-.JOHN DAVIS
Topeka. Belleville.
Kentucky
System not recognized.
Louisiana
W.-. HOMER T . HARDEN.
Maine
M.-.W.-.RICHARD E . BIRD
Manitoba Maryland
W.-. HARRY B . GRAHAM W.-. MOSES H . COLE
Massachusetts Mexico (York")
System not recognized. „, . „ „^
Q . T . •)
{-....R.-. W.-.ALBERT K. WILSON
Michigan
Minnesota Mississippi....: Missouri
W.-. GEORGE T . MOHRBACHER
Wichita.
Wichita. ..Haven. Harper.
^
,
Topeka.
Marysville.
W.-. CLARENCE E . FARNSWORTH....Hoisington. W.-.EDWIN C . EAGLES Thayer. M.-.W.-.PERRY M . HOISINGTON NeWton.
Montana
W.-. JAMES H . BEEGLE
Neodesha.
Nebraska Nevada
W.-.EARL T . PYLE W.-. THEODORE H . DOHRER
Clay Center. Arkansas City.
New Brunswick
W.-. HARRY E . PEACH
Emporia.
New Jersey New Mexico
W.-. GUY W . BROWN System not recognized.
Beloit.
532
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
New South Wales W / . H A R M O N J. BOWER New York R.-. W.-. GEORGE F . BEEZLEY.... New Zealand
W.'.FRANK E. DAVIS
February. Norton. Girard. Ic^oow ^\i. -al [6422 WyandotteSt. Hoxie. Wichita. Galena. Concordia. Great Bend. Cimarron. McPherson.
North Carolina W.-.R. NELSON LONG North Dakota .....W.-.BRUCE GRIFFITH Nova Scotia M.-.W..JOHN MCCULLAGH Ohio W.'.JOSEPH D . F E L L Oklahoma.... M.'.W.-. CHARLES E . LOBDELL Oregon W.-. CHARLEY B . ERSKINE Panama W.-. JAMES A. CASSLBR Pennsylvania System not recognized. Philippine Islands .W.-.ROY G . SHEARER Abilene. Prince Edward Isl W . ' . M A R I O N M . MILLER Longton. Puerto Rico M.-.W.. WILLIAM L . BURDICK Lawrence. Quebec W.'. CHARLES W . MILLER, JR....Hays. Queensland M.-.W.-.ELRICK C . COLE Great Bend. Rhode Island R.-. W . - . W M . FRANK MARCH Lawrence. Saskatchewan W.-. JOHN B . FLEMING Hamilton. Scotland W.-. HARVEY O . DAVIS Anthony. South Australia W.-. RICHARD W . EVANS Dodge City. South Carolina W.-. OTTO R . SOUDEES Wichita. South Dakota M.-.W.-.CHARLES A. LOUCKS Lakin. Tasmania. M . - . W . - . B E N S. PAULEN Fredonia. Tennessee W.-. EAKL B . HOPPER ...Ness City. Texas M.-.W.-.GILES H . LAMB Yates Center. Utah W.-. HAYES FLOYD Ness City. Vermont M.-.W.-.HENRY F . MASON Garden City. Victoria W.-. CLARENCE M . CROSBY St. Francis. Virginia W.-.BARLUS ROMSTEDT Ottawa. Washington W.-. STANFORD M . SMART Zenda. Western Austraha M.-.W.-.THOMAS G . FITCH Wichita. West Virginia M.-.W.-. JOHN W . NEILSON Concordia. Wisconsin W.-. GUY R . CURRIER. Kensington. Wyoming System not recognized.
APPOI TIVE GRAND OFFICERS, 1925. (1) FRED E. BROOKS, Grand Chaplain; (2) GEORGE F. BEEZLEY, Grand Senior Deacon; (3) JOHN S. RIGG, Grand Junior Deacon; (4) BAYARD J. LONG, GraDd Marshal; (5) EMERSON B. WELLS, Grand word Bearer ; (6) CIlAllLIE E. CALE, Grand Senior teward; (7) G. DONALD DICKEY, Grand Junior Steward; (8) FRANCIS L . PIERCE , Grand Pursuivant; (9) W. AMER B URNETT, Grand Tyler.
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH —OF—
M.-.W.-. CHARLES ALTON LOUCKS, GRAND MASTEB OF MASONS OP KANSAS, FEBBTJAKY 26, 1925, TO FEBRUARY 25, 1926.
BY H E N R Y F . M A S O N , P.-. G.-. M .-.
. CHARLES ALTON LOUCKS was born at Beaver Center, Crawford
County, Pennsylvania, June 12, 1873. At six years of age he came with his parents to Lakin, Kansas, where he has lived ever since. He is therefore familiar with the hardships and toil of pioneer life. He has seen the barren cattle range of that era develop into the present fertile fields of the Arkansas valley. And he has been a potent factor in the transformation. Always a public spirited citizen he has contributed an abundant share in the upbuilding of his city and county. His father, W. P. LOUCKS, was a justice of the peace of Kearny County from a time before its organization, when the nearest district judge was at Newton, and his court was practically one of last resort. Nearly all the lawyers of the territory comprising the seventh congressional district practiced before him and learned to value his judicial fairness and the sound good sense that characterized his decisions. His mother, it is of interest to note, was for.some years the matron of a Masonic Home for children at Springfield, Ohio, and endeared herself to Masons and others by her kindhearted and efficient administration. He was married in 1889 to Miss RHODA D . LONG, and their home at Lakin fills the highest ideals of American life. CHARLIE, as he is universally known, has not himself held or sought public office but as a deputy has so often had the management of various county offices as to have acquired a familiarity with them that makes him a very Nestor of local records. If the term is a suitable one to describe a real estate broker of the highest personal and business character he has been a "realtor" since a time long prior to the coinage of the word. He has also long been interested in banking and has been president of the Kearny County Bank for some fifteen years. If in the course of an active career any one has ever for a moment questioned his absolute integrity or suspected him of a departure from the code of Christian or Masonic morals I have never heard of it, and I have known him intimately for practically forty years. That he is
534
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
without enemies and has the friendship and good will of all with whom he has been brought in contact is not due to any negative quality in his character for he is a man of profound convictions to which he religiously adheres, as becomes a member of the Presbyterian Church. He has faithfully discharged all the duties, large and small, that have fallen upon him in his Masonic relations as well as in all other connections. The demands upon his time have ever been numerous and insistent, but he permits no call of duty or friendship to go unanswered. He well illustrates the truth of the adage that if you want a thing done it is good poHcy to entrust it to a busy man. The scope of his Masonic acquaintance has naturally been widely extended by his service as Grand Master for the past year, and Masons throughout the state have learned to appreciate him as his old. friends have always done. He tried to get into the active military service during the World War, and being denied that privilege tendered himself for Y. M. C. A. work, and was accepted, spending nearly a year with headquarters at Paris in charge of the Bureau of Civilian Employees, an experience that naturally broadened his outlook, and brought to him real distinction. His administration as the head of the Order is nearly at an end. He will soon join the ranks of the Past Grand Masters, but we know his zeal for Masonry will suffer no abatement and he will be found in the future as in the past doing earnestly and energetically whatever duty lies before him, and responding cheerfully to every call made upon him. MASONIC RECORD. EMERALD LODGE No.
289,
LODGE. LAKIN, KANSAS:
Initiated, February 2, 1895. Passed, March 2, 1895. Raised, April 20, 1895. Senior Deacon, 1896. Junior Warden, 1897. Senior Warden, 1899. Master, 1900. Senior Deacon, 1902, 1905, 1906, 1907. Treasurer, 1909, 1910, 1911, 1912, 1913, 1914, 1915, 1916. 1917, 1918, 1919, 1920, 1921, 1922, 1923, 1924, 1925. GRAND LODGE:
Grand Junior Steward, 1903. Grand Senior Steward, 1909, 1910. Grand Senior Deacon, 1922. Grand Senior Warden, 1923. Deputy Grand Master, 1924. Grand Master, 1925. District Deputy Grand Master, 1904, 1905, 1906, 1907.
1925-26.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
535
Commitlee Service. Committee on Necrology: Member, 1906. Committee on Finance and Property: Chairman, 1911, 1912, 1913, 1914, 1915, 1916, 1917, 1919, 1920. CHAPTER. GARDEN CITY CHAPTER No.
83, GARDEN CITY, KANSAS:
Mark Master, November 28, 1902. Past Master, November 28, 1902. Most Excellent Master, December 15, 1902. Royal Arch, December 26, 1902. High Priest, 1917. Received the Order of High Priesthood at Wichita, Kansas, February 20, 1917. GRAND CHAPTER:
Commitlee Service. Committee on Finance and Property: Member, 1914, 1915, 1919, 1920; Chairman, 1921, 1922, 1923, 1924. Committee on Chartered Chapters and Chapters U. D.: Member, 1917, 1918. COUNCIL. WICHITA COUNCIL N O . 12, WICHITA, KANSAS:
Royal Master, February 15, 1909. Select Master, February 15, 1909. Super Excellent Master, February 15, 1909. Dimitted, April 12, 1921. DODGE CITY COUNCIL N O . 16, DODGE CITY, KANSAS:
Admitted, September 7, 1921. GRAND COUNCIL:
Committee Service. Committee on Necrology:
Member, 1914; Chairman, 1919.
COMMANDERY. DODGE CITY COMMANDERY, No.
35,
DODGE CITY, KANSAS:
Red Cross, November 3, 1903. Knights Templar, November 3, 1903. Knights of Malta, November 3, 1903. Dropped 1906 account signing Petition for Letters of Dispensation for new Commandery at Garden City, Kansas.
536
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
GARDEN CITY COMMANDERY N O . 50,
February,
GARDEN CITY, KANSAS:
Charter Member. Commander, 1909. Prelate, 1914. GRAND COMMANDERY:
Grand Captain of the Guard, 1912. Grand "Warder, 1913. Grand Sword Bearer, 1914. Grand Junior Warden, 1915. Grand Senior Warden, 1916. Grand Captain General, 1917. Grand Generalissimo, 1918. Deputy Grand Commander, 1919. Grand Commander, 1920. Committee Committee Committee Committee
Committee Service. "on Finance and Property: Member, 1909, 1 9 l l . on Commanderies U. D.: Member, 1910. on Jurisprudence: Member, 1922. on Triennial Affairs: Member, 1923, 1924, 1925.
SCOTTISH RITE, WICHITA.
Lodge of Perfection, May 5, 1924. Chapter Rose Croix, May 6, 1924. Council Knights Kadosh, May 7, 1924. Consistory, May 8, 1924. MYSTIC SHRINE.
Member Isis Temple, Salina, Kansas.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE
ASSOCIATION O F PAST GRAND MASTERS OF THE
M.-. W.-. GRAND LODGE OF A. F. & A. M. OF KANSAS.
TOPEKA, KANSAS, February 23, 1926. The twenty-second Annual Meeting of the Association of Past Grand Masters of the M.'.W.". Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas was held at the Executive Mansion in the city of Topeka at 7 P. M. of the above date. The following members were present: M. .w.M. .w.M. .w.M. . W / M. .w.M. . W / M. .w.M. .w.M. .w.M. .w.M. .w.M. .w.M. .w.-
PERRY M . HOISINGTON THOMAS G . FITCH THOMAS L . BOND HENRY F . MASON WILLIAM EASTON HUTCHISON.... ELRICK C . COLE WILLIAM L . BURDICK GILES H . LAMB OWEN J. WOOD HUGH P. FARRELLY
,
Grand Grand Grand Grand Grand Grand Grand Grand Grand Grand
Master, Master, Master, Master, Master, Master, Master, Master, Master, Master,
1901 1904 1906 1908 1912 1913 1915 1916 1919 1920
B E N S . PAULEN
Grand Master, 1921
JOHN MCCXJLLAGH ELMER F . STRAIN
Grand Master, 1922 Grand Master, 1924
538
.
February,
PROCEEDINGS OF THE
M/. W/. OWEN J. WOOD, presiding as Venerable President, opened a Table Lodge; upon motion M.-. W/. CHARLES A. LOUCKS, Grand Master of the M.-.W.-. Grand Lodge of Kansas, was unanimously elected to membership; and the attributes of the Association were conferred upon him by the Venerable President. Messages of regret were received from M..: W/. MARION K. BRUNDAGE and M.-.W.-. CHARLES E . LOBDELL. Succeeding the social pleasures of the evening, a number of subjects of importance to the Craft were discussed and considered, and tribute was paid to the memory of M.-.W.-. JAMES H . MCCALL and M.-.W.-. WILLIAM I. STUART.
The Venerable President announced that under the Constitution M.'. W.-. HUGH P. FARRELLY succeeded to the office of Venerable President, and M.-. W.-. CHARLES A. LOUCKS became Steward, for the ensuing year. On motion M.-.W.-. ELRICK C . COLE was chosen Worthy Secretary for the ensuing year. The Table Lodge formally closed until their regular annual meeting in February, 1927; unless sooner convened by the President. ELRICK C . COLE,
Secretary.
JAMES H. M c C A L L B o r n , J u l y 2 2 , 1849 D i e d . A u g u s t 1 1 , 1925 G r a n d M a s t e r , 1895
WILLIAM
I. STUART
B o r n , J a n u a r y 2 5 , 1861 D i e d , N o v e m b e r 27, 1925 G r a n d IVlaster, 1918
3(n iJl^mnrmm. games 1H« imcCall M.'.W.\ (Sranii JMaat^r in 1B95
Born Julv 22, 1849
Bied Bugust 11, 1925
3ln m^mnmm. Umuiiam Ifngram Stuart M.\W.\(&tmh
MBBUV
in 1913
ISorn January 25, 1861
Bled IRovcmber 27, 1925
3(n iM^mnrmm.
Sacred to the imemorv of
<i!>ur :03eloved Dead witbitt this JTurisdiction*
S^atijfl iurtng tl|e f^ar 1925. • Leavenworth No. 2.—James P. Dobbs, Jan. 26; Clarence C. Goddard, Feb. 27; William Hargreaves, Oct. 12; Hubbard A. McFarland, June 15; Edward W. Osgood, May 2; Lorenzo D. Phelps, April 2. Wyandotte No. 3.—Thomas A. Shaw, Jan. 8; Birton A. Jackson, Feb. 10; Samuel I. Davidson, March 13; Samuel Moore, March 14; Fred C. Kaufman, May 7; Daniel W. Vaughn, July 1; Fred August Bobrink, July 17; John H. Pieron, Aug. 26; Andrew Meixner, Jr., Aug. 29; Benjamin Frank MikeseU, Sept. 19: Adolph George, Sept. 24; Jacob H. Borden, Oct. 11; Charles M. Burton, Oct. 23; OUie F. Fisher, Nov. 17; Frank Brodey, Dec. 27. Washington No. 5.—John E. Addley, March 23; Hiram W. P. Bears, Sept. 14; Charles W. Jackson, Dec. 5; Sidney S. Olinger, March 15; Charles N. Seip, Sept. 30; Claudius D. Walker, Dec. 11; George WykofCv Oct. 6. Lawrence No. 6.—Albert Becker, Dec. 31; Eugene T. Gallagher, Sept. 20; Edgar Klein, Aug. 16; John C. Moore, Oct. 27; Frank A. Skofstad, March 9; Harold B. Sparks, Sept. 14, 1924; Herman D. Wliitman, Jan. 2. Union No. 7.—Chester Alois Bauer, Jan. 17; Charles T. Guy, Oct. 14; William Karth, May 23; James Mullis, Oct. 9; Fred J. Phillips. .Tune 10; Thomas Stanley, April 11; George B. Smith, Oct. 2; Frederick W. Webking, Feb. 11. ' Rising Sun No. 8.—Douglas L. Avery, April 17; William E. Brook, May 9; Alfred Carpenter, Dec. 25; Charles F. Dorey, Aug. 7; Peter Holms, Nov. 9; Sherman A. Pitcher, Jan. 27; Edward A. StinhoH. Nov. 19. Acacia No. 9.—Clark Bouldin, Jan. 22; Charles D. Craig, Dec. 27; John M. Henry. Nov. 3; Hugh H. Keckley, Oct. 8; Harvey M. Light, Nov. 24; Delbert W. Perkins, Feb. 9; Joseph A. West, July 10. King Solomon No. 10.—Eifle H. Smith, Jan. 12; Edwin J. Holman. March 21; Alexander C. Wright. March 27; William H. Hamner, Feb. 15; Martin T. Ivy, Aug. 27; Herman Seidel, Dec. 28. Emporia No. 12.—Charles C. Brannon, Feb. 5; Harry O. Fish, March 5; Henry W. Giger. Sept. 30; EoscoeL. Hershberger, Aug. 10; William T. McCarty, Oct. 30. Oskaloosa No. IJf.—^Ford W. Quiett, Oct. 3. Great Bend No. 15.—^Charles V. Brinkman, .Tune 24,; Kobert L. Harvey, June 28; Joseph B. Howard, July 8; Andrew G. Langham, March 3; Wells Thompson, Feb. 15; Arthur B. Willcutt, May 9. Lafayetle No. 16.—Isaiah G. Hacker, Aug. 14; Warren Knittle, Jan. 3; Henry J. Waters, Oct. 26. Topeka No. 17.—Elmer B. Ames, Oci. 13; John E. Chambers, April 26; Debroses C. Dibble. Oct. 18; Nels J. Holum. Aug. 19; Edgar P. Hutchings, Sept. 7; William A. Morton, May 16; Stewart L. Nelson, July 2; Eobert G. Eeynolds, Aug. 3; Eobert E. Reynolds, July 15; Charles E. Sutherland, Feb. 19; Frank C. Thompson, Aug. 17; Orrin E. Walker, Jan. 20; William B. Whitton, Oct. 2; William H. Wilson, Dec. 9.
DEATHS—Continued. Ottawa No. 18.—Jesse H. Branson, .Tune 3 ; Paul C. Kankin, June 30; Harvey L. Remloy, March 13. . Olathe No. 19.—"Wilber F. Bailey, Oct. 27; Frank M. Bookout, May IG; SaniuelH. Hounokl, Sept. 8. • Melvern No. 22.—Carl B. Hallam, Feb. 21; Waldo McMuUen, July IG; Roy C. Goldsmith, June 0. Palmyra No. 23.—Thomas B. Trotter, Jan. 11; William A. Quayle, March 9. Osage Valley No. 21/'.—Morris A. Bishop, Ajjril 20; William H. Davis, Dec. 11; Benjamin L. Prief, Sept. 28. Oketo No. 25.—Ezra T. Smith, Doc. 27. Lonqton No. 26.—Alby J. McCurry. Jan. 14; Benihard Riderburg, Oct. 11. Towancla No. SO.—Cass C. Coston, March 29; Stephen E. Corey, Sept. 15; Alfred H. Gunn, April 8. Mound City No. 33.—Jacob G. Wortman, April 26. Hiawatha No. 3,5.—Andrew .7. Anderson, Oct. 30; Ednnmd B. Edgerton, Sept. 20; Leonidas Meeker, March 20; William E. Shale, June 23. Council Grove No. 36.—William D. Williams, .Tan. 7; Frank E. Pirtle. April 10; Peter J. Potts, Nov. 12; Samuel Illk, Dec. 17. Paola No. 37.—Demetrius E. Butts, Oct. 1: David F. Dunn, Feb. 24; William B. Henson, June 19; Edwin W. Mitchler, April 21. lold No. 38.—Henry C. Fitch, June 21; Roy Foster, Nov. 13; J. Hoover Kerr, March 9. Seneca No. 39.—William W. McBride, May 2: Melville R. Connett, July 21; Rufus M. Emery, Sept. 10. DeSoto No. 1,0.—Albert M. Walker, Dec. 3. McKinley No. 1,1.—Ross W. Bowers, ,Tan. 3 1 ; Millard F. Laurence, July 22; Russell Little, Nov. 10; James H. Neely, Sept. 25; Martin E. Peebles, April 30. llolton No. 1,2.—J. M. Jjong, Dec. 11; Jesse E. McCorkle, Dec. 28; James S. Williamson, Dec. 27; S. W. Wheeland, July 13. Nickerson No. 1,3.—Milton M. McCormick, July 9 jMicheal Norton, Dec. 15. Delphian No. 1,1,.- William Oscar Knight, Jan. 7; Lebbeus D. Walrad, Oct. Easton No. //S.- -Samuel S. Hulett, May 30; Henry M. Preston, June 16. lialktead No. 1,6.—Cyrus Hinkson, Jan 11; Chris Oltinan, March 25; D. Ralph Parker, April 9; Charles Bierschboch, May 19.' Mackey No. l,S.- -W. Nelson Reece, Sept. 25; Isidore Ebert,Dec. 30.
DEATHS—Continued. Lake No. 50.—Jerorhe Alowers. April 17; AVilliam H. Reicherter, Sept. 17: Joseph H. Fowler, Sept. 25; Frank Bridgford, Oct. 11; Boljert A. Richards, Nov. 23. Orient No. 51.—Lewis D. Applegate, Oct. HI ; Horatio A. Black, Feb. 5; Jacob W. Boltz, Dec. 19; Ednnmd E. Chapman, Sr., March U; James E. Corcoran. Aug. 29; Levi Eugene Harrison, Nov. 12; Gustavo A. Hnebener, Sept. 14; John .lones, Nov. 6; AV^illiani H. Jones, Oct. 24; J\idson Linden, Fell. 4; A'littic Alonroe Lawson, July 19: John T. M a y , ' A'larch 20; Charles E. Nelson. Nov. 14; Fred L Richards, March 22; Frank 1'. Rude. April 29; Lee Otis Sanderson, May 20; Charles J. Snyder. Sept. 1: Richard Wilson, .lul> 19. Follawalomie No. 52.—George M. Hyett, May 4. Shawnee No. 5Ji.—AVilliam E. Staggs, Dec. 9. Troy N'o. S.5.—Cornelius Culp, Rr., Nov, 1,5; AVilliam J, Stuart Nov. 27. Coyville N'o. 57.—AViUiam F. Findley. June 12. McCracken No. 5S.—Charles D. Kittle. July Kj. SalinaNo. 60.—Charles Henry Harno, July 20; AVindold Scott Harvey, July 2.5: Henry Charles Low. Nov. 21; Mark Jiangs Palmer, Jan. 11 ; Charles Manes Todd. Oct. 4. Ridyrway No. 02.—Joseph H. Cox. Jan. 12; David Loroy Tvner, April 2.5. Adams No. fi.'i.—Scott Taylor. March 31. Watliena No. 6Ji.—Arthur J. Axlund. April 4; George F. Ehglish, .luly 14; Henry Gardner, July 1.5. Gardner No. 65.—A\'. Scott Gloyd. April 7; Charles N. Neidigh, Aug. 24. Burlinqlon No. 66.—George C. AVorster, Dec. 20: TsaacB. Rhinehart. Aug, (i; George H, AVhitehill, March 10; Oliver P. Mauck, Dec. 28. Frankfort No. 67.—Charles AA". Blodgett. Aug. 1,3; George R. Carver, Sept. 20; Charles E. McKee, Nov, 2; Eli M. Puntney. March 24. Hiram A'o. OS.—.Tamos J. Connors. Feb. 20: Eddie E. Nichols, April 9; James Gray, May 19; AA'illis T. Parker, Oct, 10. Baxter No. 71.—AA^hiam R. Clark, May 2; Robert R. Heap, Jan. 7. Chelopa No. 73.—Frank M. Keeler, Jan. 17; Edward S. Lane, Dec. 11. Mys'tic Tie No. 71,.—Harry Tj. Black. Aug. 3; Charles A. Brower, Nov. 14; George F. AVillianis. Sept. 1.5; Paul Ij. AVilliamson, Sept, 4, Wame'jn No. 7.-).—Frederick Ginder, Nov. S; George Houdyshell, Jan. 11; H, Francis Hutchison, Aprils; Richard M. Pemberton, Aug. 20. Delta No. "7.—Simeon Ewalt, June 24.
DEATHS—Continued. Corinthian No. 70.—William Carey, Sr., March 24; James M. Lee, Oct. 12. Zeredatha No. 80.—Henry P. Gillett, Sept. 0. New Albany No. 81.—Junius K. Clift, Dec. 29. Doric No. 83.—Mile M. Lindamood, Jan. 16. Jefferson No. 8Ji.—Fred B. Edgerton, Nov. 20; Henry Humfrevillo, Sept. 0; Earl L. McKolvy, Feb. 15; Thomas Schuchart. May 24. Sunflower No. 86.—.Tohn F. Klopf.'itein, June 21; Chester Latham. Jan. 26; .Tames E. Lewis, June 26; Franklin Payne, Oct. 14; Corydon W. Root, Dec. 2; William Smith. Aug. 24; Parkman S. Warren, April 27; James Whlttington, July 3.
A, L. K. S.
Eureka No. 88.—Grovcr C. Beatty, Aug. 28. Home No. 89.—Thomas M. Durland, June 12. Golden Rule No. 90.—Robert Edmund Bunncr, ,Tan. 26; Peter L. Reynolds, March 30; Earl Bryan Norstorf, April 3; .Toseph J. Hanlon, May 25; William Green, June 8; John A. Bright. June 20; William Weir, July 8; Albert Andrew Graham, July 13; William Robert Smith, Oct. 26, Marysville No. 91.—Alexander Schmidt, Nov. 7, Devon No. 92.—Joshua Green, March 11. Girard No. 93.—Gustave Goodkind, Nov. 7; John M. Higgle, Nov. 15; David G. McGiffln, Nov. 8; William C. McMillan, Feb. 10; Thomas L. Smith, March 15. Harmony No. 9li.—Byron H. Wager, Jan. 17; Windfleld S. Gla.'sscock, July 24; William Martinson. Oct. 16; Charles G. Yehle, Nov. 24. Constellation No. 95.—William S. Cady, Oct. 17; Charles W. Graves, Dec. 21; William P. Maxey, Jan. 18; Jay H. Rissler, Dec. 12; George E. Satterlee, Nov. 1; Abraham L. Schwartz, May 1. Delaware No. 96.—George H. Pope, Sept. 1; J. W. Perry, Oct. 13. Patmos No. 97.—George K. Lewis, June 28; M, Irvin Morgan, June 17; Carl Augustus Lee, Dec, 21. Benevolent No. 98.—Edward A. Gray, Aug. 11; Ralph G. Irey, June 6: Frederick A. Smith, Nov. 29; Joseph Spangler, Nov. 15. Wichita No. 90.—Samuel B. Amidon, May 8; Emmett .T. Seattle, June 22; Marcus J. Bowdish, .Tune 10; Joseph Brubacker, Nov. 7; Merritt A. Carvin, Oct. 2; Edgar F. Casad. Nov, 28; Alfred C. Evans. Feb. 1; George W. Forbes, Feb. 4 Howard H. Horner, May IS; Joseph L. Johnson, Feb. 15 Buford G. Kreutel, Aug. 16; Robert O. Loosley, Sept. 14 Cornelius B. Ludlam, July 25; James H. McCall, Aug. 11 William A. Minnlck, April 30; Frank P. Purnell, Nov. 29 Milton H. Rudolph, March 20; John J. Sloan, Sept. 28 Edward C. Smith, Oct. 26; Willis L, Taylor, March 10.
DEATHS—Continued. Prudence No. 100.—Hurlburt A. Scovell. Sept. 6. Euclid No. 101.—Dow Busenbark, Dec. 17. Keystone No. 102.—James M. Gentry, July 3 1 ; F. B. McBride, July 28; Clarence E. Messer, March 20; Algren M. Ragle, June 15; Frank N. Skinner, March 26; Theadore Stamm, June 28. Cedar No. 103.—Richard E. Williams. Jan 13; Ernest C. Biirris, Jan. 15; Daniel W. Blair, Jan. 31; John G. Kilrain, March 1; Charles F. Low, May 17; Abraham Oberndorf, May 30; Edward .T. Shaw, June 7; James M. Jones, July 25; Frank S. Brooks. Sept. 8; Robert C. Rawlings, Dec. 7; Merida A. Whitson. Dec. 2(5. Fidelity No. 106.—Roland H. Darden, June 2; William H. Evans, Aug. 20; George A. Gordan, Oct. 30; James F. Huffman, Aug. 23; Samuel Holmes, April 8; Harry V. Purkable, May 23. Forli'ude No. 107.—A. M. Horstick, Jan. 1: Frank H. Brothers, Feb. 22; Henry O. Ewers, March 14; Harrison G. Hooser, June 24; Edward B. Bishop, Aus;. 2 1 ; Daniel Painter, Sept. 22; Wesley H. Curlis, Dec. 31. Winfield No. 110.—Andrew B. Cann, March 13; John W. Craine, Jan. 6; Alpha O. Ebright, May 6; Ernest Hensley, July 16; William S. Holden, Jan. 14; Joseph A. Hudson, June 4; William H. Perry, Aug. 10; William W. StiSE, Dec. 23. Hesperian No. HI.—Walter C. Bond, Oct. 13. St. John's No. 113.—Victor Farris, Aug. 27.; Thomas C. McCasey, Jan. 5; Frank A. McDonald, April 8; Ethan A. D. Parker, Nov. 2; Charles Skinner, April 22. Adtance"No. 111).—Morris M. Ginett, Sept. 24; William B. Klipstein, Oct. 29; Edward Jcnes. Dec. 11. Excelsior No. 115.—John B. Duerson, Feb. 25; C. Bruce Palmer, Jan. 19. Muscotah No. 116.—J. F. Preston, July 14. Parsons No. 117.-^Alfred S. Knarr, Jan. 29; William H. Maddocks, Feb.,27; Charles Wlrth, Jr., May 1; William Scott, June 19; Thomas R. Clark, July 7; Charles A. Lambert, Nov. 7; George E. Tift, Oct. 15; Alpha O. Brown, Oct. 20. Cherokee No. 119.—Fred N. Chadsey, April 27; Frank M. Montee, May 4; William E. Turkington, Oct. 13. Halcyon No. 120.—Stephen D. Mehew, Feb. 20; John J. Noll, No*. 17; Frank H. Prescott, May 13; Lorlng E. Sawtelle, Sept. 22; Robert B. Slaymaker, July 1; Frank N. West, Aug. 11. Cawker City No. 125.—Angelo Colson, Jan 2; Daniel P. Simpson, Sept. 9. Meridian No. ISO.—Allen Pumpelly, Aug. 26. Palestine No. 127.—Jacob L. Sturm, Feb. 11; Fred H. Mcintosh, Aug. 23. Belleville No. 129.—Harry L. Kent, Nov. 21; Earl A. Stanfleld, Feb. 13; Franklin C. Wilbert, April 27.
DEATHS—Continued. Crescent No. 133.—Walter B. Bethel. .Ian. 11; George S. Hartley, Feb. 10; George H. .Saunders, March 23; Martin Berry, July 14; Edward Marshall, Sept. 24; Corwin A. Meek, Nov. 14. Clay Center No. 1.34.—Harry R. Slmmard, March 10; John A. Parrell, July 10. Lenexa No. 135.- -Ei)hron Towner, Jan. 22. Vespcr No. 13a.- -Frank H. Chamberlain, Jan. 5. Chernivalc No. 137.—Alexander H. McCcnnell, Feb. In; William C. J^cgan, March 18; Charles A. Mitchell, July 11; John W. Saner, Sept. 16; George Fairley, Oct. 30. Sedgwick No. 130.—Joseph S. Tucker, Nov. 11. Beno No. 11,0.—Frank Buckley. Sept. 20; Wilham S. Coston, Aug. 21; Evander L. Craig, June 15; .Tohn C. Curran. June 11; Albert E. Hager, Dec. 24; George A. Hay, May 3; David Hulfman, March 31; William C. Jacobs, April 24; Robert B. Johnston, May 2; Adelbert R. Alichelstctter, Nov. 20; Edwin B. Payne, April 4; Xi. Howard Pitrson, March 12; Lincoln Stewart, Oct. 28; Lee A. Sublette, July 1,S; Melvin E. Way, Sept. 9; Edward Barnvelle, Dec. 1.5. Signal No. IJ/l.—Oliver P. Christman. April 17; Peter Mallot. April 13. Newton N'o. IJfZ.—Benjamin Franklin Evans, March 22; Robert B . Fleming, April IS; George E. Hollinger, Sept. 10: Albert M. Holm, Sept. 18; Milton T. McGraw, Aug. 3; Agustus A. Mlncrt, Aug. 2; Charles Rittenhouse, Sept. 10: William N. Shirley, Jan. 2o; .loseph Somers, Dec. 31; Henry F. Trees, April 14; John Watts, Jan. 10. Minneapolis No. lJ/3.—George W. Devebess, .Tan. 18; .Tames Gard,'May ,5; Jacob Geiser, May 10; Thomas C. Davis, Sept. 2. Alt. Vernon No. llji)..—William Butterworth, April 8: .Joseph P. Oadden, March 8; Chelcy W. Gulp, Dec. 12; George T. Donahoo, June 12; Arthur W. Rawlin, Aug. 10. Ellsworth No. 1J,G.—Nelson Brunner, Oct. 5; ,Tohn Cizek, April 12; Herman F. Hoesman. Jan. 19; William B. I'ayne, Feb. 28; Edward W. Wellington, Feb. 18. Center No. IJ,?.—Horace G. Kyle, Feb. 27; Samuel Burkholder, Jime 23. Wa-Keenev No. IJ/S.—Samue! Conley, Dec. 1. Wellington No. ISO.—Samuel M. Dick, Dec. 16; Peter E. Hall, July 24; William J. Logan, June 10; William M. Martin, March 13; Francis Jv. Bobbins, Dec. 26; Clem Spruance, May 11; WinHeld S. Varner, Oct. 21; Stephen D. Waynick, Sept. 3. Douglass No. 1,51.—Thomas R. Purcell, Jan. 4; James P. Bare, July 20; George A. Upton, Nov. 3. Lebo No. 152.—Harvey Wise, May 31; Charles F. Lusk, Aug. 17; Thorp B. Jennings, Dec. 7. Luray No. 153.—John Olson, July 28.
DEATHS—Continued. Lincoln No. 154.—Edward J. Byan, Sept. 3; Frank C. Lewis, Sept. 4. Hope No. 155.—Thomas M. Brackman, Oct. 21; Jesse A. Benson, July 19; George S. Clark, ]May 31. Dexter No. 156.—Maurice H. Taylor, March 4; John W. Cochran, Nov. 15. Active No. 158.—James E. Gofl, Dec. 15; Charles A. Seber, Jan. 8. Sagui No. 160.—Francis L. Smith, Aug. 23. Sabetha No. 162.—Edmond E. Williams, Nov. 7. Greenwood No. 163.—William A. Landrum. Feb. 7; Herman E. North, July 31. Aiwood No. 16J,.—Henry Wimer, April 28. Ldrned No. 167.—William F. Hall, March 28; Calvin E. Cade, March 23; Edward G. Wickwire, Sr., Oct. 3. ParkerviUe No. 168.—Alexander G. Leitch, Dec. 20. Blue Ravids No. 160.—Samuel W. Gilson, Oct. 24; Frederick L. Stauffer, July 15. Fraternal N'o. 170.—Fred J. Kandall, Jan. 2. Sterling No. 171.—George W. Dalbey, Dec. 16, 1024; Albert L. Mincer, July 14. McPhetson No. 172.—Arvine A. Bass, May 25; Jacob Strouse, , May 30. Belle Plainc No. 173.—Yewell Griffith, Nov. 2. Weiiern Star No. 174.—James H. Mcllvajn, July 29. Kirwin No. 175.—AVilliam W. Strout, Sept. 27. Prairie Queen No. 176.—Orlanzo V. Perry, Sept. 14. Russell No. 177.—Harry L. Pestanna, March 14; WilHam E. Banks, April 20. Mt. Moriah No. 179.—Lester R. Johnson, Jan. 31; Peter H. Johnson, March 27; Konstantina Schwarz, Sept. 3. Bennington No. 180.—Lewis B. Nickles, March 11; James B. W61verton, Oct. 7. Lenora No.. 181.—Joseph P. Cundell, Aug. 2fi, 1922; Wesley D. Turner, Aug. 12. Burrlon No. 182.—Wilham P. Osborne. Juno 11; Andrew J. Saltzman. June 25; B. N. C. Stott, .Tan. 18, 1922. Gaylord No. 183.—William E. Young, Jan. 7; Nathaniel Holmes, May 1; Napoleon B. Draper, July 26. Mountain Slope No. 186.—Levi H. Tilton, Sept. 2. Pittsburg No. 187.—Charles M. Adney, March 18; Vernie Lee Beshears, June 23; Samuel G. Bouhvare, March 13; John Andrew Hanson, Dec. 3; Theodore G. Hill, July 8; William Jenkins, June 9; Adam W. Peck, Sept. 1.
DEATHS—Continued. Onaga No. 1S8.—Mats S. Olson, Jan. 30; Henry H. Benton, Aug. 6. Walnut Valley No. 191.—James Andrew Paull, Nov. 27; James Edward Tift, Sept. 15. Royal No. 192.—Robert Dinsmore, .July 3; Albert C. Epps, Oct. 27; August H. Springmeyer, Feb. 17; William Schmidt, Aug. 6. Hartford No. iSS.^Jolan W. Bray, June 21. Galena No. 19Jf.—Clarence Bailey, March 23; William Stephens, Nov. 18. Hays No. 195.—Joseph H. Middlekauff, Aug. 29; .lohn B. Cave, Dec. 30. Canton No. 197.—James C. Wilson, Jan. 17; KU S. Maltby, May 5. Blue Hill No. 198.—William E. Crawford. March 2; Alfred F. Torrence, Nov. 20; Leroy R. Wing, May 15. Norton-No. 199.—Frederick S. Hazelton, Dec. 23. Anthony No. 200.—Lannes Ney Schultz, Aprl 3; Joseph W. Greene. April 17; Frank Floyd Davis, Aug. 4; Joseph A. Mathein, Dec. 19. Mulpane No. 201.—John T. Fahnestock, Jan. 22. Delphos No. 202.—Dana J. Hale, Sept. 23; David Mortimer, Oct. 23. Sumner No. 203.—Thomas W. Paulson, June 8; John D. Schaefler, Aug. 22. Downs N'o. 204.—Peter E. Arnold, June 20; Gecrge Tamm, Nov. 12. Harper No. 206.—James W. Felkell, May 9; Lynn C. Myers, Aug. 10. Occidental No. 207.—David J. Sparks, July 17. Friendship No. 208.—George H. Thorp, .July 15. Brookville No. 209.—Emil Renard, Oct. 22. Fulton No. 210.—.Tohn W. Hazlebaker, Feb. 6; Edgar W. Inskeep. Aug. 17; Adolphus.O. Tippie, March 11. Greeley No. 211.—Elias F. Grandon, Jan. 9; Henry Gerhold, Nov. 26. Oliee Branch No. 212.—Charles E. Meissner, Aug. 21; Philip H. O'Harra, Nov. 20; Andrew Toothman, May 12. Twin Grove No. 213.—Henry Cottrell, May 8; Archibald Carson, July 28. Sincerity No. 21k.—Ira H. DufEy, July 10. miinwood No. 217.—Edward S. Bock, Sept. 29. Landmark No. 218.—Samuel F. Conrad, . Lewis No. 220.—David Gil)son, June 18.
DEATHS—Continued. Lebanon No. 221.—Albert Schlapback, Jan. 24. SI. Bernard No. 222.—Henry J. Gyles, Feb. 3; Henry Rau, Nov. 22; Walter E. Rose, Sept. 10. Joppa No. 223.—Phil J. Cook, Alay 15; Clyde L. Seed, Aug. 22. Anchor No. 22i.—Martin F. Scharf, Sept. 5; Joseph W. Timberlake, Oct. 2. Siloam No. 225.—James C. Allison, Aug 9; McClelland Bishop, Dec. 1.5; Prank E. Brain. July 31; Robert G. Brown. June 15; Edward Gaylord, Juno 25; George W. Hunt, Dec. 29; John H. Parkinson, Jan. 23; Ernest S. Rice, Jan. 27; Elrick C. Sharp, March 10; Joseph H. Snow, April 22; Joseph H. Stanton, .Tuly 24; Willis D. Storrs, Oct. 5; John E. Torrington, Dec. 19; Lawrence S. Woolverton, July'20. Jamestown No. 227.—Robert M. Barton, April 6; Simeon K. Mann, March 19. Ninnescah No. 230.—Peter A. Becker, Nov. 16; J. Wesley Cookson, June 27; George M. Frisbie, May 20; Jonathan McFall, April 7. Long Island No. 231.—Van Buren Shields, July 10. Clinton No. 233.—Robert Ogilvy, Nov. 28. Axlell No. 23Ji.—Ernest Mack. Sr., May 2; Samuel S. Simpson, Oct. 29. Garfield No. 235.—John C. P. Byarlay, May 26; Peter Mordstrom, Dec. 30. Meriden No. 236.—Harlan B. Rippetoe, March 20; Harvey W. Carter, Oct. 18; George Kampman, Nov. 26. Temple No. 237.—Murat H. Powell, June 15. Mount Hope No. 238.—David F. McCormick, Jan 3; John H. Merryfleld, June 7. Soldiet No. 2y;0.^Silas Cochrell, Aug. 4; Lemuel Gardner, Nov. 2. Linwood No. 241.—Anthony Wayeth, Jan. 12. ' Miltonvale No. 242.—John B. Morris, Jan. 4; Morgan J. Bailey, Oct. 3. • Peace No. 2^3.—Alexander Beamer, .June 4; Lee Lafayette, April 18; James B. Trammel!. May 29; .William Walton, March 4. Waterly No. 244.—Charles O. Gwyn, June 13. Marmaton No. 245.—William H. Carleton, May 11. Tyrian No. 246.—Frank N. .4.ndrews, Dec. 13, 1924; Lester A. Dockum, Aug. 12. Chase No. 247.—Thomas E. Nichols, Feb. 1; Samuel Sanderson, June 25. Scottsmlle No. 249.—William T. Daniels, April 13. Whi'dng No. 250.—Andrew Brown, June 13; James L. HoUis, May IS.
DEATHS—Continued. Galva No. 2.51.—Eobort B. Russell, April 2; William H. Brook, Dec. 24. Stafford No. 2.52.—Eobert.l. Clinkscalc, Feb. 8; David O. Wright, March 1(5; .loan B. Clino. April 2:i: Frank Jenkins, May 28; Ambros Allen, June 12; Frederic D. Macv, Aug. 8; George W. Akers, Oct. 10. Ionic No. Z.'ili.—William Dixon, Feb. 7; Pendleton O. Gray, Aug. 29; Cornelius S. Mace, March 24. Milan No. 2.55.—Thomas M. Derington, Aug. 12. Lyra No. S.'iO.—William C. Miller, April 17. Westmoreland No. 257.—John W. Arnold, Jan 20; Nathaniel Comfort, Feb. 11; Solonian Mosicr, Aug. 17. Morion No. 258.—George Moran, April 23; Jerome B. Miller, Oct. .5. Bealtic No. 2.59.—Henry C. Boggs, March 21; Joseph W. Bell, Dec. 7. Mulberry N'o. 261.—Fritts Christian. Dec. 24; Alexander Reeves, March 10; Lewis J. Gilliam, March 11, 1923. Attica No. 202.—Franklin P. Hilton, Fob. 20. Logan No. 264.—Charles H. Elliott, May 17; Peter Hansen, March 15. Kilwinning No. 265.—.John F. Keyes, Jan. 21; Gilbert Nirison, Feb.. 15; Andrew R. Schulze, Aug. 10. Mount Zion No. 266.—John Weishaar, Feb. 8; Joseph A. Alurray, May 9; John C. Whitmer, Nov. 6. Molina No. 267.—Harry R. AVebb, I'eb. 23; James ' K . Gill, Dec. 30. Mistletoe No. 269.—Louis M. Washburn, June 28; John C. Thornbro, July S. Quenemo No. 270.—Frank C. White, June 6. Armourdale No. 271.—Harry F. Bittlinger. Oct. 2; Michael C. ' Burns, March 17; Lctson B. Cowden, March 19; Henry Hoffman, May 21; Phillip Kopf, June 21; Albert E. Lambert, Dec. 17; Benjamin F. Oswald, Sept. 29: Henry A. Parsons, Feb. 15; Oscar A. AVeiss, April 23. Kaw No. 272.—Fred J. Carson. July 2. 1024; Charles S. Green, March 14; Charles Hagan, July 28; Fred P. Lorflng, Feb. 9. Black Diamond No. 271/.—Joseph H. Bennett. April 23; Fred M. Hatton, June 27; Harry P. Weir, July 10. Windcm No. 276.—Clause G. Holgerson, Oct. 21. Ashland No. 277.—Edward O. Palmer, Jan. 17; John J. Dorsey, June 20. Cosmos No. 278.—Andrew Olson, Dec. 12. , Brainerd No. 280.—Frank G. Cunningham, March 3. Millbrook No. 281.—Walter Gish, Aug. S; Guy R. Gish, NTov. 15. Alpha No. 282.—George B. Okeson, Jan. 22.
DEATHS—Continued. Preston N'o. 283.—Arthur E. Lutiier, Nov. 27. Anthem No. Z8Jf.—James W. Erwin, April 8; Arthur B. Lasley, Oct. 5; Scott Spaulding, Feb. 13. Lotus No. 286.—A. Green Dye, Jan. 8; Lewis J. "White, May 24. O k No. 287.—Marion L. Lockwood, Feb. 12; B. Pearn Hatch, June'11. Emerald No. 289.—George F. Johnston, Nov. 9. Beulah No. 291.—Frank M. Grabtree, June 7; Walter H. Sellens, Oct. 28; Aaron H. Thomas, Nov. 12. Glasco No. 292.—George W. Hussey, Jan. 13. Comanche No. 295.—Charles W. Burt, Sr., May 31; Alfred Hall, July 20; Columbus McCuUoch, Nov. 9. Highland No. 296.—Ernest Heinen, March 12. Samaria No. 298.—Wenzel Gregor, May 27. Fargo No. 300.—John P. Scott, April 25; Albert Lee Jones, July 2; James G. Ault, Nov. 5. Hamilton No. 301.—Frank M. Newman, Feb. 17; Wilham A. Samuels, March 19; Elmer E. Swisher, July IS. Alberl'Pike No. 303.—Paul Aurell, Aug. 22; Leander Barnabas, Feb. 1; James F. Bennett, Jan. 31; Albert H. Bolte, Feb. 12; > "George W. Bristow, Dec. 23; Seynrour B. Coble, Jan. 29; Robert J. Collins, Nov. 7; Otto E. Elgert, July 3; Charles H. Husted, Oct. 11; John y . Jenkins, April 25; Elmer C. Lavender, June 10; Robert .1. Magill, Aug. 23; Ike S. Morgan, May 12; Lee Orr, July 1; D r u e U . R u c k e l . O c t . i l ; Tid T. Scudder, Feb. 5; Edwin I. Spencer, July 20; Jesse "VV. Vaniman, Jan. 2; George W. L. Wolfe, Feb. 11; Arthur L. Wright, May 8. Avon N'o. 305.—Jacob Hatten, June 25; Martin G. Hooten, Nov. 2; Alonzo M. Reynolds, July 29. St. Thomas No. 306.^Asa M. Smith, Nov. 5. Kansas No. 307.—William L. Gufley, Aug. 7; Harry C. Weiss, April 8; Evard Yoimg, Oct. 29. Syracuse No. 309.—Pa,t. Murphy, Jr., March 27. Naphtali No. 310.—Leslie A. Lovejoy, June 9; Ira H. Reeves, Jtine 18. Hancock No. 311.—Frank Walters, April 23; Hugh P . Bayne, April 24; Henry Kirby, June 15; John J. Malcolm, .luly 11; Ezra Bond Fuller, Sept. 17; Charles Hert, Nov. 13; Holland Rubottorn, Nov. 15;' Allen J. Coughenour, Nov. 21. Santa Fe No. 312..—Henry Johnson, May 10. Hebron No. 31lf.—George P. Wheeler, April 12. Virginia No. 315.—James W. John, May 5; Samuel H. Braden, Nov. 28. Coolidge No.' 316.—Harry S. Crittenden, Dec. 22; Martin K. Mead or, —• '.
DEATHS—Continued. Norcalur No. 317.—Jesse J. Pool, Dec. 8. Wallace No. 31S.—Nathan Proudfltt, Oct. 17. Goodland No. 3Z1.—John A. Knight, Nov. 2; Eollin E. "Webster, Nov. 16; Goodyear C. H. Moore, Dec. .3. Ben Ilur No. 322. — Gilbert H. Carr, Aug. 25; Charles B. Dodson, Oct. 26; James Sweeney, Oct. 30; Abraham "Williamson, Jan. 24; James F. Williamson, April 2. Caneu No. 32Jf.—John A. Swanson, Dec. 24, 1924. La Ilarpe No. 325.—John E. Bacon, May 23. Ilorton No. 326.—Jacob McEuen, Dec. 31; Harry M. Mitchell, July 9. Iloyt No. 327 -Franklin H. Chase, .Tan. 11; Sidney Hederick, Oct. 12. Arcadia No. 329.—John D. Bell, Aug. 18. Jloisington No. 331.—McClelland Elmore, March 22; Edward W. Hall, April 10; G. Louis Koch, Sept. 3. Rosedale No. 333.—John H. Ableshouszen, Jan. 24. Oak Hill No. 334.—Arthur G. Schillman, Oct. 24; Alonzo L. Clark, Dec. 15, 1924. Formosa No. 336. -HoUis K. Hoyt, Feb. 19. Frederick No. 337 —Chris Jansen, March 21. Kincaid No. 338.—Samuel P, Aldridge, Jan. 6: Charles W. Hegwood, Dec. 28, 1924. Lane No. 339.—Frank A. McDowell, Sept. 27. Maple City No. 3.^2.—Alfred Wilson Bailey, March 22; William Truman Wise, Nov. 26. Tlolyrood No. 343.—Abraham Lonnon, .Tune 10. Ashlar No. 344-—Paul E. Holmes, Sept. 1. Ediia No. 345.—Stephen Milton Milholland, .Tune 14. Spivey Nc. 347.'—.Tohn S. Hartshorn, July 15. Scammon No. 351.—Frederick Green, Aug. IS. Horace No. 352.—Johii R. Powell, Aug. 26. Marquette No. 353.—Franklin D. Funk, Dec. 12. Summerfield No. 354-—George Frank Blume, March 1; George Craven, June 18; Murray V. Larkin, Jan. 28 Frank Thomas, .Tune 3. Chautauqua No. ,35.5.—Erie M. Staplecon. April 12 James R. Marsh, April 30; James A. Montgomery, Sept. 16. WellsviUc No. 356.—Thomas R. Heath, Nov. 28; Walter A. Lytle, Nov. 12. Alta Vista No. 357. — Charles R. Ely, June 17; Andy McArthur, April 16. Sylvan Grove No. 359.—Levi Leach, May 3. Jennings No. 360.—David R. Mulford, Feb. 17; AViUiam H. Potts, Jan. 12.
DEATHS—Continued. Geneseo No. 361.—"William B. Eoche, Dec. 3. Cuba No. 362.—Charles D. Turner, Oct. 11. Powhattan No. 36S.—Jacob Slianer, Dec. 23. .Valley Center No. 361).—Daniel E. Boone, March 19; John A. Davidson, April 25; Edward G. Taylor, June 4; Elmer M. Crabtree, Oct. 18; James A. Beatty, Nov. 14; Julius N. Hoefgen, Dec. 18; Thomas O. Woofenden, • . Baling No. 365.—James "VV. Mvillins, March 30. Bonner Springs No. 366.—Guy B. Oliver, March 7.• Roger E. Sherman No. 369.—William F . Loese, Jan. 4; James Newton Myers, March 0; Russell F. Stokes, March 10; George B. Baxter, May 27; Claude M. Simpson, Aug. 28. Macksville No. 371.—Arch Campbell, July 27. Dwight No. 371/.—William A. Nordeen, Dec. 2. Waldron No. 377.—Mart. L. Gully, June 28;. Milo Thomas, • June 15. Zenda No. 378.—Henry Leclercq, Feb. 10. White City No. 380.—Russell L. Weirich, Jan. 13. Wilsey No. 382.—Charles R. Whiting. Dec. 16. Piper No. .385.—John Rogers, Nov. 19. Sylvia No. 391.—Daniel C. Martin, Nov. 23. Mayetla No. 393.—John Buche, June 23. Saffordville No. 395.—Tandy H. McKee, April 5. Lindsborg No. 397.-—Isaac F. Tudor, Aug. 31. Melody No. 1,00.—^Samuel M. Campbell, Feb. 17; William Kiler, Aug.'2. Latham No. hOl.—Samuel S. Wright, April 20; John F. Cornstock, Aug. 19. Hugoton No. 406.—Michael L. Leonard, Oct. 26; George E. Massey, June 16. Scranton No. 407.—Charles Bolton, July '3. Haviland No. 1,09.—George N. Harvey, June 12. Ensign No. 413.—Oscar K. Nugent, Jan. 23. Perry No. 415.—Frederick K. Eyestone, Feb. 5. King David No. 416.—Delmer B. Hickey, Aug. 7; Charles E. Larrick,'May 27; Joseph H. Light, March 20; Cassius M. McGown, Sept. 20; Jay McGufley, Nov. 2. Lecompton No. 420.—Charles L. Kuhn, Oct. 14. Turner No. 4^5.—Charles W. Hancock, July 1. Pretty Prairie No. 428.—Samuel G. Demoret, Feb. 17; James W. Stevens, April 13. Johnson No. 441.—Charles Helnleh, Aug. 21. Hutchinson No. .445.—Floyd Brumbaugh, March 7; John H. Bean, Dec. 14.
^
3ln ilpmnnam.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF AI.ABAMA. Died December 22, 192'].
(George fWurray, PAST GRAND MASTER OF ALBERTA. Died January 12, l!)2o.
iSirljariS ^enhsrsan
©aijlor,
PAST GRAND MASTER OF ARKANSAS. Died January 26, 1925.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF ARKANSAS. Died June 29, 1925.
3ln m^monam.
George W, <Ho0; PAST GRAND MASTER OF COLORADO. Died Jaimary 4, 1925-
Srnsot Se2j0U0 Sffoat^r, PAST GRAND MASTER OF COLORADO. Died Scpiciiiber 21, 1925.
Valjn 2f^ttra §uiartuio«t, PAST GRAND MASTER OF CONNECTICUT. . Died April 24, 1925.
Sfsnry Robinson, GRAND TREASURER OF FLORIDA. Died November 9, 1924.
^m
in ilpmnnam.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF FLORIDA. Died April 25, 1925.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF FLORIDA. Died May 4, 1925.
PAST GRANDMASTER OF INDIANA. Died March 29, 1925.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF IOWA. Died September 15, 1925.
3lat il^mnrtam.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF LOUISIANA. Died February 21, 1925.
Alttnza
®l|0tttaa §tpbbtna,
PAST GUAND MASTER OF MINNESOTA. Died November 12, 1924.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF MINNESOTA. Died March 30, 1925.
• PAST GRAND >IASTER OF MISSOURI. • Died April 28, 1925.
3ln H^mnrtant.
PAST GRAND TREASURER OF MONTANA. Died December 17, 1924.
iHiUtam Anhvsms
dark,
PAST GRAND MASTER OF MONTANA. Died March 2, 1925.
Cornelius T^eh^^B^ Hr., GRAND SECRETARY OF MONTANA. Died July 31, 1925.
lfni|w Adam i£I>rl|arJit, PAST GRAND MASTER OF NEBRASKA. Died November 1, 1925.
Jn iHemoriam.
Euarta Cnrneltua §t0UcnB, PAST G R A N D TREASURER OF N O R T H DAKOTA. Died September 1, 1925.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF NOVA SCOTIA. Died January 30, 1925.
If. iJSurraa ffiavuBon, PAST GRAND MASTER OF NOVA SCOTIA. Died May 27, 192S.
Allen
Anlircuia,
PAST GRAND MASTER OF OHIO. Died March 35, 1923.
Jin iifmortam. ^ o r a c ^ A- Uruin, PAST GRAND MASTER AND GRAND TREASURER OF OHIO. Died May 13, 1925.
)l9alt0r ©tjnmaa lUilltamaon, PAST GRAND MASTER OF OREGON. Died March 2, 1925.
^0or00 A. Kol^naton, PAST GRAND MASTER OF SOUTH DAKOTA. Died August 30, 1925.
^ijavltB
Sl^uifa Sirorkuiaij,
PAST GRAND MASTER OF SOUTH DAKOTA. Died October 5, 1925.
Jn iH^mortam.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF TENNESSEE. Died August 22, 1923.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF TEXAS. Died May 18, 1925.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF VIRGINIA. Died May 14, 1925.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF WASHINGTON. Died December 23, 1924. '
Jin il^mortatn.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF WEST VIRGINIA. Died January 30, 1925.
Valjn iMnrgan ©oUina, PAST GRAND MASTER OF WEST VIRGINIA. Died February 10, 1923.
Ssnrgp lUealcji Atkinson, PAST GRAND MASTER AND PAST GRAND SECRETARY OF WEST VIRGINIA. Died April 4, 1925.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF WYOMING. Died January 3, 1925.
APPENDIX.
REPORT ON CORRESPONDENCE. BY A L B E R T
To the M:.W.-.Grand
K . WILSON, CHAIRMAN.
Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas:
The following report, embracing a review of the Proceedings of other Grand Jurisdictions, is submitted in the hope that it will be read in every lodge in our jurisdiction. The writer has endeavored, as far as possible, to confine the report to excerpts from the Proceedings of other jurisdictions, not only in this country but from those abroad, and with whom we are in fraternal relations. A summing up of the membership, as shown in the statistical tables at the close of this report, shows the net gain in membership in the United States is less than it was for the previous year. This decrease would indicate a lack of interest and which naturally raises the question as to the cause. We cannot consistently say that it is due to hard times or scarcity of money, as conditions along those lines are practically the same as they have been for a number of years. . It is true that social affairs of the day, together with a desire for incessant amusement, has something to do with the question, but does it materially reduce the number seeking Masonic Light? While we deplore the loss in net gain as compared with the previous year, yet one may consistently raise the question whether this is not for the best interests of the Craft at large. For several years and until very recently the additions to our membership were almost marvelous, as we advanced by leaps and bounds, but there now comes the after-crop and we are confronted with a condition, the truthfulness of which cannot be questioned —was this for the best interests of our time honored Fraternity? If we are to judge the sincerity of the motive which induced so many to knock at our doors, from the viewpoint of attendance at lodge Comr munications and the interest taken along other lines to build up the Fraternity, we must of necessity admit that in many cases we were
152
CORRESPONDENCE—INTRODUCTION.
February,
simply adding names to our rolls of members and not making Masons. In alluding to this subject we refer particularly to our own jurisdiction. However, we have no doubt it likewise applies to others, as human nature is much the same the world over. This naturally raises the question whether those seeking "Light" were actually prompted " t o solicit the privileges of Masonry by a favorable opinion conceived of the Institution, a desire for knowledge, and a sincere wish of being serviceable" to their fellow-creatures? Also, whether the beautiful and instructive lessons taught by symbols had the desired effect upon their minds and hearts? - The foregoing questions are prompted because of conditions which exist today. We frequently find in attendance at the Communications of the lodge scarcely more than a quorum, notwithstanding the fact that the lodge carries upon its rolls the names of several hundred members, and indeed, in some instances it runs into the thousands. Even if a notice is issued that Work is to be done at a certain Communication, it adds but little in the matter of attendance unless such notice is coupled with the information that a meal is to be served either prior to or after the meeting, and while in many cases it is hard to get sufficient workers to fill the stations, yet when the hour arrives for the serving of the meal the brethren seem to literally spring up from all quarters of the Temple and flock to the dining room, and after having satisfied the "inner man," and while enjoying a good cigar, a very large majority will leave for their homes or places of amusements, with no thought of the good they could accomplish by being present and encouraging the officers with at least their moral support, and thus lend a helping hand toward the upbuilding of the Fraternity. We are taught that Masonry should not interfere with our daily vocations or any obligations we owe to.our Creator, our country, our neighbor, or ourselves, yet this does not apply to the total exclusion of the duties we owe to our lodge and to the Craft in general. It should be borne in mind that the success of a Masonic lodge depends wholly upon the interest taken by its members, and while the individual brother is to a certain extent at fault for this apparent apathy, yet a certain amount of responsibility rests on the shoulders of those who are placed in high authority and to whom we look for •guidance and counsel. While the whole responsibility does not rest upon the shoulders of a Grand Master, yet the amount of enthusiasm and interest which he puts
1925-26.
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153
into his efforts will be reflected in the enthusiasm and interest exhibited by the officers of the local lodges, and which naturally will have the desired influence on the individual members and will result in creating a desire on the part of good men to become members of our Ancient Craft. As will be noted from the following report we have quoted b u t little from the preface to the address of the Grand Masters for the reason that in many instances this portion of their report was void of anything of a constructive nature, being limited to an acknowledgment of the honor conferred upon them one year previous, ah apology for not having carried out their good intentions when elected to the high office of Grand Master, and extending a welcome to the brethren assembled. We find in some of the Proceedings considerable space devoted to addresses of brethren who are propagating outside organizations. In years gone by this was known as the "carpet-bagging system." Tothe notion of the writer such practice is extremely dangerous, as any "smooth talker'.' or one who is capable of influencing his audience, cani lead Grand Lodges to do that which under ordinary conditions theywould decline to do. We look upon such efforts as being detrimental; to the best interests of the Fraternity, as it is not a hard matter toimpose upon the sincere Mason who has absolute confidence in his. brethren, and who believes that Masonry really stands for something. We still have an element in some of our Grand Lodges who are' disposed to use the influence of the Grand Lodge in advancing theinterests of outside societies which have presumed to predicate their membership on the Masonic fraternity. We also have those who are seeking the influence of the Grand Lodge for the advancement of organizations which cannot even predicate their membership on Masonry. As a matter of information we might say that there are now more than thirty of these two classes of organizations. Fraternally submitted, ALBERT K . WILSON,
Chairman. To the notion of the writer, who is likewise Grand Secretary, there is an excellent opportunity for improvement in the arrangement of some of the Proceedings of other jurisdictions. In a very few instances the Proceedings consist of a verbdtim et literatim report of the trans-
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CORRESPONDENCE—ALABAMA.
February.
actions of the Annual Communication. Not only is this done, but it is printed in such form and so condensed and void of any spacing between subjects that one must of necessity waste much time t o find out what is actually done. With but few exceptions the reports of committees are thrown in regardless of order; in other words, if an important committee, such as t h a t on laws or jurisprudence, presents several reports they are scattered through the journal instead of being placed in such order that one subject will be followed immediately by the others. In other instances the report of the Committee on Reports of Grand Officers or Doings of Grand Officers, is placed almost at the close of the Proceedings instead of being the first one-following the reports of the Grand Officers. The use of initials and t h e omission of the letter or post office address of Grand Officers is a common error and is not in keeping with a formal report of this kind. A few Grand Secretaries fail to print on the outside back cover of the Proceedings the names and addresses of the Grand Officers, particularly the Grand Master, Grand Secretary and chairman of the Committee on Correspondence, and the place and date for holding the next Annual Communication. A decided improvement could be made in the running heads at the top of the pages of the Proceedings and Report on Correspondence, where they simply carry the word "Proceedings," without indicating the jurisdiction. The word "Proceedings" in this instance does not carry with it any information, but if it be coupled with the name of the jurisdiction it makes that portion of the journal quite valuable.
ALABAMA —1924. Lodges, 578; members, 52,369; net gain; 2,243. A Special Communication was held on May 2*i, 1924, in Birmingham, for the purp3se of paying the last honors to their Grand Junior Warden, Brother ALBERT L E S U I B R E E S E .
The Annual Communication occurred on December 2, 1924, in t h e city of Montgomery.
DUNCAN C . CARMICHAEL, M . - . W . - . Grand
Master. Brother JOHN P H I L I P M E L V I N , our Grand Representative, was
present. Our Alabama brethren are not unmindful" of the importance of the position of Grand Representative as we notice that three com-
1925-26.
CORRESPONDENCE—ALABAMA.
155
missions were revoked where the one holding the office had not been in attendance for three successive years. The Grand Master, among other things, has the following to say in the preface to i i s address: "We are aU here to do that, which in our judgment, will be of thu greatest benefit to the whole Craft and not to any particular Lodge, district or individual. If we approach our duty with this In mind no serious error will be committed and no Lodge or brother will have any right to complain at any action here taken. It is my judgment that the greatest hindrance to progress and to the development of real brotherhood is that men from timidity or from suspicion Induced by false rumor, or a natural mcllnatlon not to mix with their fellows, remain strangers to each other. We want to get away from all this and let's begin now by touching elbows with all the brethren, giving each other the handclasp of friendship and brotherly regard, telling each other who we are, and passing judgment on no one until we know all the facts, or at least make inquiry to ascertain the facts, fiom each viewpoint. Such an attitude will obviate many misunderstandings and give us that faith in human nature and in our ownselves that will add much to the sum total of human happiness and our own peace of mind. Frankness in dealing one with the other, and especially in statements made, win go a long ways In bringing about that mutual confidence and esteem that must be the basis of all Brotherhood. These observations are trite, but practical, and In my opinion, are needed to be often Impressed upon our minds and hearts If we are to maintain Intact the principles and purposes of our great Order, for it often happens that want of thought upon, and attention to the simple things that underlie organizations and human life bring disaster to the body politic and the individuals that go to make it up.
The Grand Master includes in his address a report concerning the annual meeting of the Eastern Star. The writer assumes t h a t either this organization is recognized by the Grand Lodge of Alabama as a regular and legitimate Masonic Grand Body, or the Grand Master is disposed to southern hospitality and has a weakness for the ladies. Under the subject of Masonic Home the Grand Master states that they now have 350 members and all seem happy and satisfied. Attention was called to the importance of the brethren in attendance visiting the Home and meeting. the family during their stay in Montgomery. In conformity to their custom the Grand Master addressed a communication to the lodges,.calling attention to the great responsibility of maintaining the Home and recommended liberal contributions. We note that in this instance over $4,500.00 was raised. Under "Decisions" the Grand Master ruled t h a t when an objection is made to the advancement of an Entered Apprentice and the lodge over-rules the objection and confers the Second Degree, the same brother cannot object to the Master Mason's degree being conferred. He also ruled t h a t where an objection is made after one degree is conferred, which holds good for three months, and further objection is made either by the same or some other brother, the lodge
156
COBBESPONDENCE—ALBERTA.
February,
may require him to prefer charges. The above no doubt will be interesting in view of our own law on this subject. Our Alabama brethren, and the good ladies of the Eastern Star, evidently have a sort of "double r i n g " program as we note that the Grand Lodge was called to Refreshment for the purpose of receiving the most distinguished lady of the Eastern Star, and her remarks are made a part of t h e Proceedings. As the remarks are purely local we refrain from quoting them in this report. The writer may twit our Alabama brethren a little on their weakness for the ladies, but we are strong for them in the matter of their Masonic Home. Fifty-two pages of the Proceedings are occupied with one of the best reports concerning that institution which we have ever had the pleasure of reviewing. Of course this is nothing new as a similar report is submitted to their Grand Lodge annually. We sincerely hope that our reference to this subject will come to the attention of our own Masonic Home Board. We notice, however, t h a t a resolution was presented t o abolish the present Board of Trustees and elect a Board of Managers. The Committee on Jurisprudence were of the opinion that it would not be for the best interests of the Grand Lodge and the Board remains as it was. After some discussion the resolution was withdrawn, although we are of t h e opinion that the proposed change would be a good one, either in Alabama or in Kansas. Brother F E E D WALL submits the usual Report on Correspondence and includes a review of our 1924 Proceedings. DUNCAN C . CARMICHABL, M.-. W . ' . Grand Master, Dothan. GEORGE A. BEAUCHAMP, R . - . W / . Grand Secretary, Montgomery. F R E D W A L L , Correspondent, Athens.
Next Annual, Montgomery, December 1, 1925.
ALBERTA —1925. Lodges, 139; members, 12,350; net gain, 333. Edmonton, June 10, 1925.
HORACE P . REID, M . ' . W . ' . Grand
Master. M.\ W.". Brother S. J. BLAIR, our Grand Representative, was present. The following few words taken from the preface to the Grand Master's address suggests to the writer the quoting of a remark made by one of our own Grand Masters during his term of office, when he stated,, in referring to some of our lodges, "They may not love me but they certainly will respect m e " : In the performance of my duties, I may not in ali cases liave given the decisions you would like, or performed, the acts, in a manner you would always
1925-26.
CORRESPONDENCE—ALBERTA.
157
approve, but I can assure you brethren that any mistakes I may be guilty of were not mistakes of the heart. U n d e r " R i t u a l s " t h e G r a n d M a s t e r h a d t h e following t o s a y : It has been drawn to my attention on several occasions that books designated as copies of the " Work'' are offered for sale in book stores and are being purchased by any who maj desire them. Those who are guilty of commercializing Masonry in this way are contemptible masons and are not worthy of membership in the Order. There is not a member, no matter how uninformed he may be, who can plead ignorance of what is right in dealing with this question. It is the duty of every brother into whoso possession any such book may come, to immediately hand the same to the irV .-.M .•. of his lodge, who in turn should forward it to the Grand Secretary. T h e subject of " P u b l i c i t y " also was c o m m e n t e d on in t h e following w o r d s : In the early part of our year a request was received from one of our daily newspapers, for information for publication, from our Grand Lodge office, regarding the foundation and early history of our ledges and of Grand Lodge. The following paragraph is in effect my reply to this request' "Inasmuch as all matters pertaining to the Fraternity are brought before its membership through well defined mediums, under the direct supervision of its own officials, it has been the practice of the Craft in tliis jurisdiction and generally throughoiit the world, to refrain from publicity through any other channel " I must here make reference to the reports of many of our District Meetings which appeared, with entirely too much detail, in the pviblic press. Those concerned with the publishing of newspapers are in no way to blame, but I fear that some of our own members are totally lacking in respect to what is Masonic practice in the giving out of information'which is for the members of the Craft alone and in which others can not possibly be interested. All information that is of vital interest to members of the Craft" will undoubtedly be placed before them by the proper method and I consider the giving out of information in the manner referred to, a grave Masonic misdemeanor. U n d e r his rulings was one t o t h e effect t h a t t h e first degree m u s t be conferred on a c a n d i d a t e b y t h e lodge in which he is elected, or in other words, a lodge in Alberta cannot r e q u e s t a n o t h e r lodge t o confer t h e first degree on one of their accepted candidates. T h e G r a n d Secretary presented his t w e n t i e t h a n n u a l report, which is brief a n d a little out of t h e ordinary as he lists t h e n a m e s of t h e lodges whose by-laws were approved b y t h e G r a n d Master, as well as a m e n d m e n t s t o local by-laws, which consumes a b o u t t w o pages of t h e Proceedings. Concerning t h e history of lodges, t h e Librarian h a d t h e following t o say on this s u b j e c t : Two of our lodges have presented to Grand Lodge bound copies of their history since their formation as a lodge. For these and other reasons, we are led to conclude that our lodges are taking an increasing interest in the intellectual side of Freemasonry and are making an honest effort to become better informed as to the history, purposes and aims of our institution.
158
CORRESPONDENCE—ARIZONA.
February,
This is a matter which the writer has been presenting to our own lodges for a number of years, and while the result has not been what we had. hoped for, yet we are making progress. From the report of the Committee on Condition of Masonry, we are pleased to quote the following: We would respectfully say, to the Worshipful Masters of our lodges, impress upon your young members in the degree of Entered Apprentice, the teachings, the beauties and the service expected of a Mason: in the degree of Fellow-Craft, impress upon him the lessons that open up a study of the world, and all things contained, and make him feel at the end of this degree that he is in a Holy Place: in the third degree, fully impress upon him that honorable conduct, courageous action, unwavering virtue, tried and true, are essentials to a passport to the realms of eternal life. Let all this work be done, with that distinct deliberation, that the candidate of average intelligence gets every word and every lesson intended. When he has finished Ills degree, give him a little work to do, place good Masonic literature at his disposal. Your attendance problem, will then be solved. Better men, and better Masons will be the result. Referring to the system of district meetings the following will be interesting to our readers: Doubtless the most interesting part of the reports submitted to us by the District Deputies was that which referred to the establishing in many lodges of the nucleus of libraries. The education of the Craft along Masonic lines is one of the out-standing necessary features in the Masonic life today. Your Committee trust that in the very near future a good Masonic library will be found in every subordinate lodge throughout the jurisdiction. The Report on Correspondence was submitted by M.-.W.*.Brother F. S. SELWOOD, chairman of the committee, and we are under obligations for a review of our 1924 Proceedings. NORMAN E . CARRUTHERS, M . * . W . \ G r a n d Master, Lacombe. S. Y. TAYLOR, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Calgary. Next Annual, Alberta, June 9, 1926.
ARIZONA—1925. Lodges, 3 5 ; members, 5,688; net gain, 244. Phoenix, February 10, 1925. OTIS J. BAUGHN, M . - . W . - . Grand Master. Our Grand Representative, M.'. W.'. Brother JAMES H E N E Y BARRETT, was present. The Grand Master submits an interesting preface to his address, from which we are pleased to quote the following: Masons should be the outstanding men of their respective communities. They should be leaders In thought and in action in all movements for the uplift of humanity and the placing of not only Masonry but also the daily lives of the people everywhere on a higher moral plane. They should by their everyday
1925-26.
CORRESPONDENCE—ARIZONA.
159
actions prove conclusively to the whole world that no man can become a Master Mason without in truth and in fact having become a better man. You may call me cld-fashioned, and perhaps I am, but it does seem to me that there is a marked difference between the rigor of the, social and moral conventions of my youth and of today. If I be not mistaken, there has been a steady lowering of such standards and of the bars of such conventions evfr since the great world war. Stunned by the awful spectacle of a conflict for supremacy which surpassed the wildest dreams of mankind in its tearing asunder of all the highroads and pathways of peace and morality, the nations of the world today seem unable to get back to a position where civilization as a whole can reestablish itself in the former well-ordered paths of moral cleanliness. Particularly does it seem to me that our Nation and our State have suffered in this respect. Our youth is rebellious of proper restraint and "brazenness" sometimes seems to be the watchword of the hour. As Masons, my brethren, have we not a mighty task before us, and yet ought we not to undertake it with a song in our hearts and a grim determination to succeed? With all the vigor and force at our command, shall we not in our respective communities challenge the progress of vice and immorality? Let us frown upon those things which make for looseness of the social and moral conventions, and by our voice and our action properly encourage the reestablishment of this State and Nation in the pathway of proper moral restraint. Such a course I conceive to be our duty, and such a cause I suggest as entirely worthy of the highest aims of this venerable institution. " So mote it be."
.Under the head of "Masonic Service Association" he has the following to say: That other Grand Jurisdictions are growing weary of contributing to the maintenance of the Association is shown by the fact that the Grand Lodge of California, at its last Annual Communication, withdrew from membership therein. California will manage and finance its own program of educational work among its subordinate lodges, believing that far better work and much better results will be obtained thereby. In this connection it seems to me that if we develop our study club idea, we can furnish the Craft something really worth while at much less expense.
The Committee on Masonic History in Arizona submitted the following, which may serve in a measure as a suggestion to some of our own lodges who are "weary in well doing:" Your Committee on History of Masonry in Arizona begs to report that crablike it is progressing backward. The report submitted in 1924 showed that there were missing the histories of five lodges. Since then two new lodges were created U. D. Each delinquent lodge has been duly notified and requested to present its history in time for this session, but only one lodge complied with the request Your Committee, however, is a firm believer in the saying that "time, patience and perseverance will accomplish all things." It is, therefore, recommended that the Committee be continued in existence another year with authority to print such portions of the history as it may deem advisable.
The Grand Lodge paused in its deliberations and laid the cornerstone of the new Masonic Temple in the city of Phoenix. The Proceedings contain a picture of the brethren grouped around the stone.
160
CORRESPONDENCE—ARKANSAS.
February,
The likeness is excellent and we doubt not the Grand Secretary could name each of the brethren assembled for this ceremony. The Grand Lodge received and introduced as distinguished visitors two members from what is known as the Pacific Grand Lodge, with jurisdiction over Sonora, Sinaloa and lower California of the Republic of Mexico. One of the brethren, among other things, had the following t o say: But to attain the ends of Masonry, as we understand them, we are yet in a very reduced number, and wo need to extend our relations and activities and seek the cooperation of all Masonic bodies outside of our jurisdiction. We need to ascend to higher planes and have clearer understanding of our destiny.
We wonder what it is all about; however, time will tell the story. There is no Report on Correspondence. CLEMENT H . COLMAN, M . . W . - . Grand Master, Yuma. GEORGE J. ROSKRUGE, R . . W . - . Grand Secretary, Tucson.
Next Annual, Tucson, February 9, 1926.
ARKANSAS —1924. Lodges, 561; members, 35,952; net gain, 2,840. Little Rock, November 18, 1924.
F . W. HARRIS,
M.-.W.'.
Grand Master. M.-. W.-. Brother Louis BAUERLEIN, our Grand Representative,
was present. We take pleasure in quoting the following from the Grand Master's address: We congratulate ourselves that though the business interests of Arkansas have suffered by great depression during the past year, and the minds of the people have been agitated b y the industrial and political problems, that natm-ally arise when our national election year arrives, but by the strict adherence to tho Ancient Landmarks, and the established usages of our profession, we avoid the storms which wreck other societies and continue unabated our work of benevolence. We stand therefore, on a platform broad enough and strong enough to hold all good men; but let it be remembered that those that come to us must come of their own accord and not by our solicitations. Our prospects are net proclaimed from the rostrum, pulpit, housetops, or streets, but should be exemplified in our dailj life and conduct as taught by the Holy Bible, the Great Light of Masonry, Make it then the man of your council and the meditations of your thoughts.
While the Grand Master was unable to visit all the lodges we note t h a t he was able t o visit almost one hundred. An excellent showing and speaks well for his administration. Under "Decisions" he ruled t h a t the degrees could only be conferred upon one candidate at a time, except the Second Section of the First and Third Degrees.
1925-26.
CORRESPONDENCE—BRITISH
COLUMBIA.
161
Referring to the Masonic Service Association he had the following to say: During the year I have received a number of letters from this association's oSBcials. This Grand Lodge withdrew from this association at its last session. I answered advising them of this fact. Due to our withdrawal 1 declined to answer any further communication.
He was called upon to take up the charters of four of their lodges. In one case the Master refused to obey the instructions of the Grand Master in the matter of disciplining their unruly members, stating t h a t he was afraid of assault and personal abuse. The Grand Master, however, was big enough for the task and went in person • to the lodge and removed its charter. The report of the Board of Trustees of the Masonic Home shows they now have ninety-eight members in that institution. Of this number we note t h a t eighty-eight are boys and girls. A splendid showing for Arkansas. There is no Report on Correspondence. STORM 0 . WHALEY, M . ' . W . ' . G r a n d Master, Sulphur Springs. FAY HEMPSTEAD, R.-.W.-.Grand Secretary, Little Rock.
Next Annual, Little Rock, November 17, 1925.
BRITISH COLUMBIA —1925. Lodges, 115; members, 13,393; net gain, 618. Kamloops, June 18, 1925.
STEPHEN JONES, M . - . W . - . Grand
Master. M.". W.\ Brother ANDREW M C C . CHEERY,
our Grand Repre-
sentative, was present. The Grand Master begins his address with the following words: It is my great privilege to welcome you today to the Fifty-fourth Annual Communication of our Grand Lodge in this good City of Kamloops, the '*Inland Capital" as it has been so often called. It is not the first time that we have gathered in this city. By a strange co-incidence our Twentieth Annual Communication was held here exactly thirty-four years ago today, day for day, on the 18th and 19th of June, 1891; and it is a matter of congratulation t o ourselves that M.'.W.-. Brother A. MCKEOWN (the twelfth to hold the high office of Most Worshipful Grand Master) who presided at that meeting in 1891, is yet in our midst and with us here again today.
The following from the preface to the address of the Grand Master touches the life of every Mason and we therefore take pleasure in quoting it: At each Annual Communication of our Grand Lodge, there is a touching reminder to the living of those with whom we shall never again meet here. I t Is fitting that we pause before entering upon the work of this Communication, to reflect upon t h e beautiful example, the upright lives and the sterling virtues
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CORRESPONDENCE—BRITISH
COLUMBIA.
February,
of those gone hence during the past year and to pay our tribute to their worth and to the lasting benefit the world has received because they have lived amongst us. We mourn their loss, but we would rejoice in their advancement. H e m a d e five rulings d u r i n g t h e y e a r a n d we refer t o three of t h e m as follows:- T h e first w a s a d e c l a r a t i o n t h a t t h e result of t h e b a l l o t , h a v i n g been d e c l a r e d b y t h e M a s t e r , m u s t s t a n d . H e also r u l e d t h a t o n e who h a d lost a leg a b o v e t h e k n e e , or r i g h t h a n d b e t w e e n t h e elbow a n d t h e wrist, w a s n o t eligible t o receive t h e degrees. W e t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g his r u l i n g n u m b e r 5, as a m a t t e r of i n f o r m a t i o n t o a few of our o v e r - z e a l o u s b r e t h r e n : It is not proper for a Constituent Lodge to endeavor to secure the appointment of any Brother to the oflBce of District Deputy Grand Master. This Is a prerogative of the Grand Master and under no circumstances should pressure be brought to influence his desires. F r o m h i s subject of " B r i t i s h E m p i r e Service S q u a d r o n " n o t e t h e following:
we
My first official service was that of attendance a t a joint Commimication of the Lodges of District No.-1, on 23rd June last, when they welcomed over 200 of the Brethren serving on this Squadron, at the Masonic Temple, Victoria. In the history of the nations of the world, the British Navy has long been a dominating factor both in war and in peace. It was one of the controlling forces throughout the Great War. And In the ranks of the Navy are foimd great numbers of our Brethren. Our Freemasonry too has a most intimate connection with Great Britain. Indeed aU EngUsh-speaking Freemasonry finds its origin in the Motherland, while the Warrants of all Regular Lodges of many other races and tongues are traced back to that same source. Hence our delight in an opportunity to pay due honor to the representatives of o^xe Craft aboard this famous Squadron, on the occasion of its visit to this Province. F r o m h i s subject of " A r m i s t i c e D a y " w e t a k e pleasure in r e p r o d u c i n g t h e following: The commemoration of Armistice Day, 11th of November, has become an arnual event with the Lodges of No. 1 District, and was last year most fittingly observed. On this occasion as your Grand Master it was my privilege to deliver t h e address, and to place a wreath on the Memorial Tablet which graces the walls of the Masonic Temple in Victoria, in sacred remembrance of our Brethren who heard the call of duty and of honor at a time when response to that call meant the safety of the world, and of whose passing from us it is well said— "Remembrance is not despair, grief is not without hope," " No star goes down, but climbs in other skies." Since the signing of the Armistice on the 11th of November. 1918, we have lived in times of world travail, in a generation wherein the nations of the earth have suffered and struggled to recover from the effects of war madness, begim in unbridled ambition and ending in widespread bereavements, affecting almost every family. We do well to consider that high spiritual purpose out of which sprang all this sacrifice; which gathered men of every condition and thought into the common bond of a fraternal xmion; which created and increased in heairt and In mind the desire for service, and which gave hope for a destiny which would carry each in faith, sincerity and usefulness through time into eternity.
1925-26.
CoBBESPONDENCE—BRITISH
COLUMBIA.
163
" The wish that of the living whole No life shall fail beyond t h e grave. Derives it not from what we have The likest GOD within the soul." The passing into eternity of so great a multitude of t h e young, the true and the brave Is but one more of the mysteries of the Great Architect and Creator, who, passing over the mystery and leaving it to us unsolved, provides us with Its key in Eternal Hope. "Oh, yet we trust that somehow good Will be the final goal of ill. Of pangs of nature, sins of will. Defeats of doubt, and stains of blood. That nothing walks with aimless feet. That not one life shall be destroyed Or cast as rubbish to the void. When GOD has made the pile complete." This living faith, this strong and certain hope for here and for hereafter, is the privilege and pleasure of every member of the Craft, and in that faith we live and work and end our days; and while we say "Hail and Farewell" to those who leave \is, in their passing we add to that the words "till we meet again in the Providence of GOD." I n submitting his conclusion he had the following to say and we take pleasure in quoting it: Freemasonry teaches the Fatherhood of God and the Brotherhood of Man; It insists upon respect for constituted authority, and obedience to the law. Freemasonry unites men of every country, creed, sect and opinion in high and common aim. Therefore it is our duty as Freemasons who have been taught the true meaning of friendship, of brotherly love, and of cha;rity, to uphold the law, and in our daily lives, in our transactions with our fellow men, to so act and to so live, that the world may point to us as loyal and model citizens. No man is perfect, b u t as Freemasons, If we adhere to the teachings of the Volume of the Sacred Law given us by the Great Architect of the Universe, we shall be all the happier as individuals om'seives, while at the same time the Craft to which we belong will continue to enjoy increasingly high honor and respect. At this time a great responsibility rests upon us; there is a great and insidious disregard for law throughout the land, a state of things demanding our most serious thought. The exemplification in the lives and actions of the Brethren of the precepts and the principles of Freemasoni y will do much for the re-establishing of conditions leading to a proper respect for law and regard for upright living. T h e Grand Secretary presents an interesting report and we note t h a t their jurisdiction is no exception in the matter of securing annual reports from all the lodges, as he found one delinquent which of course destroyed a very commendable record. As a cure for this neglect he recommended the following: I submit for the consideration of Grand Lodge the suggestion that a monetary penalty be imposed on Lodges failing to make retiirns by the constitutional date. This is done by a number of Grand Lodges, some imposing a straight penalty of ten per rent of the Lodge's fees, and others a penalty of $1.00 for every day that the Lodge is delinquent. His recommendation was adopted by the Grand Lodge. We believe this is an excellent plan and indeed so recommended it t o
164
CORRESPONDENCE—BRITISH
COLUMBIA.
February.
our own Grand Lodge some years ago,, but the brethren were disposed to t r y out our present law a little further; then if it showed no improvement, to adopt something of this kind, but as yet it has not been done. He called attention to their custom of sending copies of their Proceedings to their Masters, Wardens and Past Masters, and presented the following recommendation which was adopted: I t is a well-known fact that many of these are not read, and I venture the suggestion that the number sent out be restricted. The Grand Lodge of England sends its Proceedings only to those who register their names with the Grand Secretary as being desirous of receiving them, and who pay a fee of five shillings. I do not suggest the imposition of any fee, but I am of the opinion that the transactions should/be sent only to those who express a desire to receive them.
In our own jurisdiction we furnish but one copy of our Proceedings to each lodge, one to each Grand Officer, and to all Past Grand Masters. Of course the usual three copies to each Grand Lodge is supplied. We note a slight discrepancy in his tabular statement wherein he reports the membership of 1923 as 12,743 while the Proceedings one year ago showed it as 12,775. The Proceedings are embellished with half-tones of the several buildings in which their Kamloops Lodge held their-meetings from the organization up to the present time. The pictures are indeed interesting. The last one, however, is an up-to-date structure, reflecting great credit on the members of this lodge. We take it that our British Columbia brethren are not disposed to allow their Benevolent Fund to lag, as indicated from the following words taken from the report of the Committee on Grand Master's Address: We heartily commend the Grand Master's remarks on the Benevolent Fund. I t is imperative that a capital sum of not less than 8250,000.00 should be built up without delay. We recommend that owing to the increasing demands on this fund, a special committee be formed by each Lodge to see that, so far as possible, the quota of $10.00 per member be collected during the coming year.
Another interesting Report on Correspondence is prepared by their Grand Secretary, Brother W. A. DEWOLF-SMITH, and we are
under obligations for a review covering almost five pages of his report. Referring to our Past Grand Masters' Association, he had the following to say: It seems that in Kansas there Is a Past Masters' Association—or an association of Past Masters—which meets just before the Grand Lodge does. The association cordially Invited the Grand Master to attend its meeting this year, but while appreciating the courtesy he felt compelled to decline. I t appears that the association has gradually resolved Itself into a Board of Genera Purposes, and at its meetings the Address which the Grand Master Is to deliver on the following day is discussed.
1925-26.
CORRESPONDENCE—CALIFORNIA.
165
Brother SMITH made an excellent guess as the Association is, in effect, a Board of General Purposes; however, it is self-constituted and not authorized either by law or appointment in our Grand Lodge. As our British Columbia brethren practice dual membership Brother SMITH does not agree with our Grand Lodge in opposing this system. Our objections to the practice of allowing brethren to become members of more than one lodge at the same time are many and various, and consist, among other things, of the following; Human nature is the same throughout the civilized world and careless secretaries are found in every portion of the world wherever there is a Masonic Lodge. It necessarily follows t h a t where a brother is a member of more than one lodge, one of the secretaries will neglect to report his name to the Grand Lodge, or will drop his name without showing cause,' or he may be suspended for non-payment of dues and dropped from the rolls in the original lodge, but continued on the other. As time goes on these complications increase, and we venture a guess that our good brethren of British Columbia do not now absolutely know how many members of the Fraternity belong to their lodges. This, however, is a matter which could be discussed more satisfactorily between Brother SMITH and the writer of this report, who happens likewise to be the Grand Secretary. We feel very highly complimented at his reference to our report and can say this without any disposition to the "scratch my b a c k " proposition. ALEX M . MANSON, M.-.W.-.Grand Master, Victoria.
W. A. DEWOLF-SMITH, R.-. W.'. Grand Secretary and Correspondent, New Westminster. Next Annual, Victoria, June 17, 1926.
CALIFORNIA —1925. Lodges, 532; members, 115,517; net gain, 7,341. San Francisco, October 13, 1925.
DAVID JOHN REESE, M.-.W.-.
Grand Master. As this review is prepared from an advance copy of the summary of the Proceedings of the Grand Lodge we are able to give but little of the detail information of the transactions at this Communication; however, we are pleased to include this reference in this report, rather than make it a part of our 1927 Proceedings, which would be rather late. From the Grand Master's remarks, in submitting his annual message, we are pleased to quote the following: As you have welcomed me to your hearts and your homes and your Lodges during this year, so I now welcome you here to this seventy-sixth annual com-
166
COBBESPONDENCE—CALIFORNIA.
February,
munication of Grand Lodge as the delegates of your respective Lodges and hence as the representatives of tlie Fraternity at large. 1 welcome you because through you the great heart of Masonry comes here to express its needs and its desires and its purposes and to demand of the wisdom here congregated and aggregated such measures as may tend to its larger development; I welcome you because through you and your counsels and wisdom we may know what is best to be done. I welcome you whether yoxi be the aged veterans whose days are lengthening toward evening or the stripling who now hesitatingly enters the councils of the Craft. And it is my hope that this meeting may in every respect bring such encouragement to your labors, such enthusiasm and zeal, that you will not alone carry home to your respeciive.Lodges an interest that will be contagiousiy fruitful, but also that you will be induced to return again and again to this fountain of Masonic inspiration.
We are sure the following, taken from the subject of "Condition of the Craft" will be interesting to our brethren and we therefore quote it in full: It is customary to make use of that time honored phrase, "There is peace and harmony and prosperity among the Craft.'.' I presume the expression is as true at this time, as it ever has been in our Masonic history, and yet I frankly confess that there is not now and has not been at any time during my administration absolute peace and harmony. There is prosperity and I am not quite sure that there is not too much prosperity. We have grown so fast: we have taken in so many new and young members, that these members have failed to grasp the vision and purpose of Masonry, have failed to understand that Masonry is builded upon a foundation peculiar tc itself. I t should be our purpose to hold firm and true to our time honored standards. It is not enough that a candidate bring no discredit upon this institution of ours; rather should we insist that he reflect credit upon our Fraternity when we admit him to membership. With the great growth of the Fraternity this year we have not had a corresponding increase in interest or in attendance. I t is evident, grievously evident, that hundreds, yes thousands of men who have petitioned for the degrees have petitioned merely because they must have the prerequisite of Masonic membership in order to reach the playground of Masonry. Once there they are never heard of again save as dues payers and as names on the roster of some Lodge. I am convinced that we cannot make Masons too fast, but I am also convinced t h a t we are making members too fast. But notwithstanding this rather discouraging aspect of our present situation, notwithstanding a note of discord here and there, it is pleasant to note that the great heart of Ma;sonry is still staunch and true; that good men and Masons all over this State are carrying on In an endeavor to bring about better education, higher morals, better social conditions, and are exemplifying the teachings of Freemasonry in their daily walk and Ufe. And this is our work and mission, brethren. If we can raise but one brother who is worthy and well qualified, a credit to the Fraternity and an honor to the Craft, we have accomplished more for humanity than rubber" stamping a hundred and making them Masons in name only.
Under the head of "Good Citizenship" among other things he had the following to say: Masonry means good citizenship. Through all of its lessons and obligations and charges winds the thread of loyalty to country; obedience to law; support of constituted authority; good citizenship. And I cannot conceive of a good Mason who is not first and above all else a good citizen.
Their system of making an investigation of the moral fitness of candidates to be received into their lodges is out of the ordinary, and
1925-26.
COBRESPONDENCE^CALIFOBNIA.
167
we are pleased to quote the Grand Master's words under the head of' '' Investigating Committees ": Section 9fl and Section 100 of our Constitution, referring to the appointment and duties of investigating committees, may be correct in theory but fail to work out in practice. It is very gratifying to note that many Lodges of the State are particularly active in the matter of investigating the character, reputation and standing of peticloners for degrees. Instead of the constitutional committee of three, no one of whom knows the other members of the committee, and none of whom are known to any members of the Lodge except the Master and Secretary, Masters of Lodges are now using so-called advisory committees, to which petitions are referred, and which advisory committees go thoroughly into every phase of the petition, holding open meetings and calling the petitioner before them and making due inquiry of him. This may not be in accordance with our Constitution, but it is serving as a means of preventing unfit and unworthy applicants to receive the degrees in our Lodges. The secret committee of three is not functioning in very many of the Lodges. There is a situation which obtains with such committees which is not satisfactory or advisable. We believe that the section providing that the names of the members of the committee shall not be made known except to the Master and the Secretary is not necessary and is inadvisable, and, therefore, recommend that such provision be stricken from the Constitution, and that provision be made for the appointment of advisory investigating committees as now obtain in many of the large Lodges and in Lodges having concurrent .lurisdiction in this State. Under the head of "Degree T e a m s " he had t h e following to s a y : A few years ago there came into being certain organizations of Masonic ritual enthusiasts, all of whom were employees or members of the same industrial, professional, or public organizations, so-called degree teams whose purpose originally was to confer the degrees of Masonry upon candidates who were members of their said organizations. The original plan of degree teams was undoubtedly rightly conceived and well carried out. There was a desire on the part of the Brethren who filled the official positions in these so-called degree teams not alone to confer the degiee upon their associate as a tribute to him but also in such a manner as would bring credit to the Fraternity in the rendition of accurate and perfect work. But in the past year or two degree teams have sprung up like mushrooms after a spring rain, and every organization which can furnish an excuse for a degree team is now represented in the field of Masonry. There' are degree teams in every industrial association, in every professional occupation, in every governmental and public association. There are so many degree teams that Lodges, in responding to requests for permission for these so-called degree teams to confer the degrees, do not And opportunity to have the degrees conferred by their own officers. In fact, degree teams have become so common that "more and more innovations have been introduced, each degree team evidently trying to vie with other degree teams in attracting attention to itself by means of the innovations which are introduced. My attention has been called to the fact that these degree teams, in many instances, have been cheapening our ritualistic work and have, in fact, been making the conferring of degrees a matter of competition; and while I verbally remonstrated upon several occasions, I felt called upon finally to issue an order directed to the Inspectors of the respective Masonic Districts, this order being Incorporated in the following bulletin which is submitted for your approval at this time. If this order be approved by the Grand Lodge, it will become directory and mandatory upon the Lodges of this .lurisdiction. In an order issued to their Inspectors, which corresponds with our District D e p u t y Grand Masters, he called attention to a communication issued by their Grand Master in 1921 forbidding degree teams from
168
CORRESPONDENCE—CALIFORNIA.
February,
doing the Work unless they received a certificate of qualification from the Grand Lecturer. He further states that this order was not made mandatory, neither was it approved by the Grand Lodge, and therefore no specific regulation was enforced. The summing up of this order provided that their Inspectors should warn all lodges that degree teams and the officers thereof should not practice frivolity, innovations, not introduce extraneous ceremonies. Some of them also adopted a plan for competitive first degree work among the lodges in San Francisco, believing that such competition would lend credit and dignity to the Work. The Grand Master was opposed to this plan, believing that competition or competitive contests were Masonically unethical and issued his order forbidding its practice. Under the subject of "Aprons for Past Grand Masters" he had the following to say: I t has appealed to me that the brethren who have served tliis Grand Lodge In the years that have passed as Grand Masters should- have some regalia designating their rank as Past Grand Masters, such regalia to be worn on the occasion of Grand Lodge communications and at such other times as may seem fitting. Ail Grand Officers at this time are provided with proper regalia, to be worn on official occasions, and it seems just and proper that Past Grand Masters, who have given their service in behalf of this Grand Lodge, should be similarly equipped. It is my recommendation that the Grand Secretary be authorized and empowered to provide each Past Grand Master with a suitable apron, of a design to be selected by him, such apron to be the permanent possession of the Past Grand Master,
We are pleased to inform our California brethren that this has been the practice in our own Grand Jurisdiction for many years and at the time the Grand Master is installed he is presented with this beautiful decoration. We cannot close our reference to this portion of the Proceedings without quoting the following under the subject of "Our Grand Secretary:" Without the aid and cooperation of the Grand .Secretary of this Grand Lodge the Grand Master's year would be most difficult and ineffective. Only those who have experienced a year's association with JOHN WHICHER, can know him and love him as Grand Masters have done. His wiiUngness to assume responsibility, his gracious and accommodating cooperation, his helpfulness in all matters, have been a source of great comfort and relief to your Grand Master. Our Grand Lodge is most fortunate in having a man of his ability, information and capacity in the office of Grand Secretary. He linows his Masonry whether It be law, custom, usage, records, history, tradition or esoteric information and his long familiarity with men and affairs, with Masons and Masonry, mal^e him invaluable to Grand Lodge. His long years of service, his absolute integrity, his Icindly sympathetic disposition, gives to the Grand Secretary's office a gracious personal feeling and a sense of security and safety that is of untold value.
The writer, having had the personal acquaintance of JOHN WHICHER for a number of years, heartily endorses every word the
Grand Master says concerning this faithful servant.-
1925-26.
CORRESPONDENCE—CANADA.
169
The Grand Secretary's report, as usual, is interesting from beginning to end and we cannot refrain from calling attention to t h a t portion of his report under "Masonic Service Association," in which he states that the Executive Secretary of that Association was notified by him of the withdrawal of their Grand Lodge from membership and that with this notice a check for more than $5,000.00 accompanied the same, being the full amount due from the Grand Lodge of California. We regret that we are unable to make any reference to the Report on Correspondence as that portion of the Proceedings has not yet reached our hands. ALBERT E . BOYNTON, M . - . W . \ G r a n d Master, San Francisco. JOHN WHICHER, R . \ W . ' . Grand Secretary, San Francisco. JESSE M . WHITED, Correspondent, San Francisco.
CANADA-1925. Lodges; 510; members, 105,339; net gain, 3,243. Hamilton, July 15, 1925.
R.-.W.'. JOHN A. ROWLAND, Acting
Grand Master. The Grand Secretary announced that owing to absence from home their Grand Master would not be able to attend this Annual Communication. Our Grand Representative, R. H. SPENCER, was present.
The Grand Master had the following to say in the preface to Ms address: For another and an especial reason should we be the more delighted to join in this annual gathering and to share in its work and its pleasures, because we are again meeting in the birth-place of this Grand Lodge. Seventy years ago there was held in this city a convention of delegates deputed to consider t h e expediency of establishing an independent Grand Lodge of Canada. At that convention, held in the fall of 185-5, the forty-one lodges there represented formally constituted themselves. " T h e Grand Tjodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Canada," and solemnly declared its objects, " t o form perfect fraternal union and harmony, establish order, ensure tranquilUty. provide for and promote the general welfare of the Craft and secure to the fraternity of Canada all the blessings of Masonic privileges." How those purposes and hopes have been realized and fulfilled all of you understand who know the history of our Craft in this jurisdiction. As some one has said, it is hard for the Mason of to-day, who has known no other conditions and surroundings than those which he enjoys and who can in imagination only catch a faint breath of the atmosphere in wliich lived his predecessors of seventy years ago, to realize the vast difference between now and then in all those intangible advantages which we possess and they lacked. But all can clearly see many of those outward and arresting signs of Masonry's advance, an advance which has not stopped or lagged but has continued tlirough these years with steady and unswerving pace.
As a hint to some of our own lodges we are pleased to quote the following from the subject of "Libraries:"
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CORRESPONDENCE—CANADA.
February,
1 should like to reiterate the opinions which I expressed last year as to the value of libraries In constituent lodges. No lodge need be. or should be, without a few books of Masonic value to which the members may have access. The cost of two or three standard volumes is not much, while the energizing and stimulating effect of their perusal, especially by the younger Masons, can not be calculated.
Under "Benevolence" the Grand Master had the following interesting words to say: Freemasonry is not a benevolent institution. I t is not organized as such, and such is not its purpose. The obligation to relieve the needs of a Brother in distress is primarily the obligation of the individual member and of the lodge to which the Brother belongs. I t is, moreover, a duty that can neither be •evaded nor delegated. Grand Lodge is ready and will always be ready to assist where assistance is required. But no effort of Grand Lodge, however great it may be, can ever take the place of the direct personal interest of the private lodge, of the word of encouragement and sympathy from a Brother to a Brother, •of the relief that is' given with a "covered hand," that appears upon no balance sheet, and that is received without any sense of humiliation. And a private lodge that seeks to pass on to the benevolent fund of Grand Lodge an undue portion of its responsibilities is not only acting unfairly to the other lodges, tout is an enemy to its own best interests, for Masonry in a lodge which neither knows nor practises charity, like faith without works, is a thing that is dead. F r o m t h e report of t h e B o a r d of Benevolence we observe t h a t almost $5,000.00 of their funds w e n t t o benevolence. This m o n e y was d i s t r i b u t e d t h r o u g h t h e c h a i r m a n of t h e c o m m i t t e e , with t h e a p p r o v a l of t h e G r a n d M a s t e r . F r o m t h e report of t h e B o a r d on Condition of M a s o n r y we are pleased t o q u o t e t h e following: Where Masonry has been cheapened by the influx of undesirable members the influence of these is soon reflected in the local or the general attitude of the Craft towards those essential principles which inspired the founders of the Order and upon which its best ideals have been based. An easy and thoughtless laxity in admitting members is quite as harmful as the unfair use of the ballot which results in the rejection of suitable material because of private rancor or iJersonal spite. The superflrial student of Masonry who tlilnks so little of the Order that he is willing to open the door to all comers deals the institution just as deadly a blow as the member who allows Ills personal piques and prejudices to dethrone his better judgment. One lets the worst material in and the other keeps the best material out. One is misled by a shallow breadth of view that would reduce the Masonic lodge to the level of a common meeting place, and the other is-obsessed with a narrowness that would retain the privileges of the fraternity only for him.'!elf and for the few who have been intimately associated •with him, and who are sharers of his own distorted outlook on the problems of life. The only safe course and the one which has ever been taught and practised by the protectors of the Craft is to consider the moral and mental fitness of the candidate. If he is one to whom the teachings of Masonry will be congenial, and whose general conduct is in line with its traditional ideals, then he should be taken in. If on the other hand his^daily life is not in accord with our moral lessons, and if Ills peculiarities of disposition are such as to make him the centre from which trouble and bickering and discord are sure to come, then he has no place in a Masonic lodge. I t is a mistake to suppose that moral fitness alone should be the test; sound judgment should also exercise its proper weight in the determination of eligibility. The man whose mental makeup is so warped that he cannot live peaceably with his neighbors, and whose constant pin-
1925-26.
CORRESPONDENCE—COLORADO.
171
pricking and love of acrimonious discussion is so great that the lodge to which he belongs becomes a forum for the exploitation of his personal idiosyncracies. should never have been admitted a member. Referring to their District Deputies they had the following to say: The District Deputy who is to malte a success of his work should have certain outstanding qualifications for ills duties but no substitute has yet been found that will satisfactorily take the place of good common sense. Sections 66 to 77 of the Constitution explain the powers and duties of the District Deputies and the newly elected representative of the Grand East should give these the most careful study so that he may preserve a proper balance between his own prerogatives and the recognition due to the rulers and members of the constituent lodges. The Deputy who thinks more of his powers than of his duties and who. "drest with a little brief authority," loves to make a display of arbitrary power, will soon find himself the possessor of a fruitless crown and a barren sceptre. And yet there arise occasions .where firmness is the only alternative left, and where after all other reasonable means have been exhausted the District rulers must show themselves to be. The Report on Correspondence was prepared by Brother WILLIAM N . PONTON and he includes an interesting review of our 1925 Proceedings. Referring to the question of "Physical Qualifications" as presented by M / . W.". Brother STRAIN, he had the following to say: No where in the United States Jurisdictions have we seen the question of phyiical QuaHflcalions more ably and more fully treated, and as the sentiments accorded with the decisions of our own Grand Lodge and of 1 his reviewer's advocacy while Grand Master, * * * * * JOHN A. ROWLAND, M.-.W.-.Grand Master, Toronto. WILLIAM M . LOGAN, R . - . W . \ Grand Secretary, Hamilton. WILLIAM N . PONTON, Correspondent. Next Annual, Fort Williams and Port Arthur, July 21, 1926.
COLORADO —1924. Lodges, 157; members, 30,251; net gain, 1,050. Denver, September 16, 1924. J E S S E C . W I L E Y , M.-.W.-.Grand Master. Brother WILLIAM H . SANFORD, our Grand Representative, was present. From the address of the Grand Master we notice t h a t he was obliged to call attention to the practice of some of their members acting as solicitors for so-called Masonic publications, or securing signatures to petitions addressed to Congress, representing t h a t the Masonic Fraternity endorsed such publications and petitions. Dealing with this subject, we quote the following: This Grand Lodge will not assume to regulate the actions of any one as a private citizen; but its laws prohibit Masons, in any Masonic capacity, from presenting petitions to the civil authorities. All Lodges and all members of Lodges will therefore take due notice and govern themselves accordingly.
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CORRESPONDENCE—COLORADO.
February,
Under t h e subject of "Non-Masonic Organizations" he made t h e following statement as t o t h e attitude of their Grand Lodge on this question: Neither t h e Grand Lodge of Colorado nor any of its constituent Lodges will presume t o dictate t o the members of the Fraternity whether or not they shall be associated with non-Masonic organizations; unless it later should develop that such non-Masonic organizations are attempting to interfere with he workings of the Craft. On the other hand, the Masonic Fraternity will not willingly permit such non-Masonic organizations to attach themselves to the Institution, particularly when such action leads to dissatisfaction, dissension and confusion in the Fraternity. Masonry does not assume to regulate or interfere with any outside matter. To the foundation stone of Masonry is due its long life and great usefulness, in that it has never permitted any discussion in its lodge room of subjects not concerning Masonry that might develop into a controversy. We are not concerned with' any other organization and will not allow any other organization t o interfere with the orderly work of Masonry. Where the interests of Masonry are involved as against the interests of non-Masonic organizations, there can be no divided allegiance. The Grand Lodge was not unmindful of their faithful Past Grand Master CROMWELL TUCKER, who has been confined to his home on account of ill health for a number of years. A committee was appointed to call upon him and in due time they made a report to Grand Lodge. The writer takes this opportunity of expressing his personal sympathy for Brother TUCKER whom he has known for more than forty-two years—in fact Brother TUCKER served as an examining committee when t h e writer made his first Masonic visit in Colorado. This occured in the old hall on the soiith-east corner of Fifth and Holliday Streets. . M.". W.-. Brother CiiASE WITHEOW, who served as Grand Master of Masons in Colorado in 1866, speaking for the Grand Representatives present, made a very interesting talk from which we take pleasure in quoting the following: The tenets of the Masonic Fraternity teach Brotherly Love, Fellowship, and above all. Charity. Charity for our own fauits and foibles, as well as that of others, the protection of our own rights by the respect by us of the rights of • others. In the present age, selfishness has been one of the great controlling factors. We have apparently lost all consideration for the welfare of others. Is it not worth an effort on the part of the Fraternity to do something to conciliate, something to induce the contending parties each of them, to give way a little, to make concessions for t h e purpose of estabUshing peaceful conditions, in place of hate and destruction. Brother STANLEY C . WAKNER submitted the usual Report on Correspondence, which includes a review of our 1924 Proceedings. WILLIAM N . VAILE, M . \ W . ' . G r a n d Master, Denver. WILLIAM W . COOPER, R . \ W . " . G r a n d Secretary, Denver. STANLEY C . WARNER, Correspondent, Denver. Next Annual, Denver, September 15, 1925:
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CORRESPONDENCE—CONNECTICUT.
173
CONNECTICUT—1925. Lodges, 120; members, 42,906; net gain, 1,700. Hartford, February 4, 1925.
W I N T H R O P BUCK, M.-.W.".Grand
Master. During the year eight Emergent Communications were held and we anticipate where ceremonies of dedication and laying corner-stones were performed, a good time generally was had, as we note that a chicken dinner was served on one of these occasions. At the Annual Communication our Grand Kepresentative, Brother HOWARD A. MIDDLETON, was present.
There were in attendance a number of distinguished Craftsmen, among them the Grand Masters of the jurisdictions of Vermont, New Jersey and Rhode Island. We are pleased to quote the following from the Grand Master's address: As the time approaches for me to leave the duties and responsibilities of the geat office with which you entrusted me a year ago, the question keeps recurring "have I fought a good fight? Have I kept the faith?" We look back today upon one hundred thirty-six years of existence of this Grand Lodge. Many Grand Masters have come and gone. Have we maintained the high standards set by our predecessors? Shall we transmit their ideals unimpaired to succeeding generations? The numbers have increased but better still the idea is growing that the making of a Mason does not end but rather begins when he has had the Sublime Degree conferred upon him.
In his report concerning other jurisdictions we find an account of a meeting of Grand Lodge officers of north-eastern United States, held in New York City. The moving spirit in this case, it seems, was the Grand Master of New York, M.'.W.'. Brother TOMPKINS. The purpose of the meeting seems to have been that of allowing the Grand Master of New York to clear away, as far as possible, t h e atmosphere surrounding their Grand Lodge in connection with their affiliation with the so-called International Conference held in Switzerland. I t would no doubt have been the part of wisdom if our New York Gra*nd Master had called a conference of this kind before their Grand Lodge mixed up in this unseemly affair. Thirteen pages of the Proceedings are consumed in listing official visits during the year. I t seems the Grand Master is disposed to be unbiased as he makes a full report concerning his attendance a t several meetings of the Order of the Eastern Star. We find no fault whatever with the Grand Master so far as being courteous to the ladies and taking part in the exercises of the Eastern Star, b u t we rise to ask what place a report of this kind has in a Grand Master's address concerning Symbolic Masonry.
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CORRESPONDENCE—COSTA
RICA.
February,
He reports the existence in their jurisdiction of a number of Past Masters' Associations, which he believes are prodiictive of some good. He also reports the formation, this year, of a Past Grand Masters' Association. Just how productive of good this organization will be time alone will tell. The so-called chain prayer received attention at his hands in the following words: During the year we have learned that that old and wide-spread superstition which impels a man to copy a so-called prayer and pass it on to nine of his brethren was still in existence. We have spoken in no uncertain terms regarding it and we hope that by a process of publicity and education it can be wiped out.
Their Grand Secretary, Brother GEORGE A. K I E S , submitted his usual interesting report and it appears that, he is having trouble with the loss of Rituals just as they do in all other jurisdictions. Why not follow the custom in Kansas and secure receipts for Rituals from every lodge in the jurisdiction every year, and require the payment of $20.00 for every copy lost, or take up the charter of the lodge failing so to do. That is the way we do business in Kansas in takin? care of our Ciphers. We take issue with Brother K I E S as t o his membership. One year ago he reported the membership as 41,206 and this year, 42,906, indicating their net gain was 1,700, while in his report he stated their net gain was 1,648. Through the report of the Committee on Finance the revenue from their lodges will consist of a per capita t a c of $2.50 and $10.00 for every initiation and affiliation, the latter, together with 15 cents of the per capita tax, is to be turned in t o their Masonic Charity Foundation. Brother GEORGE A. K I E S , their Grand Secretary, writes t h e usual Report on Correspondence and we are granted almost three pages of his excellent review. WALTER T . ARNOLD, M . ' . W . ' . G r a n d Master, Meriden. GEORGE A. K I E S , R . \ W . ' . Grand Secretary and Correspondent,
Hartford. Next Annual, Hartford, February 3, 1926.
COSTA RICA—1922-1923. Lodges, 5; members, 275; net gain, 22. We have before us the journal of their Proceedings for 1922 and 1923, dating from February 24, 1922 to January 11, 1924. Our Costa Rica brethren make a serious mistake in the preparation of their Proceedings as they fail absolutely to give a single address of any of their Grand Officers, n^t excepting their Grand Master and Grand Secretary.
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CORRESPONDENCE—DELAWARE.
175
I t would seem that their Proceedings would be of little consequence t o the average Correspondent a s ' the entire volume is printed in Spanish. Fortunately, the writer of this report can read their language reasonably well, but it would be much better if our good brethren of Costa Rica would have some one well versed in the English language prepare a sort of brief of their Proceedings. The Grand Master submits an interesting report, but it contains nothing but purely local matters—nothing of a general or constructive nature. There is no report of their Grand Secret iry, showing receipts and disbursements, or a synopsis of returns, all of which would be of very great interest to other Grand Jurisdictions. We will hope for better things from our Costa Rica brethren in the future. We notice that Grand Representatives were present on behalf of the Grand Lodges of Belgium, Dresden, Turkey and Liberia, as well as those from several jurisdictions in the United States. These Proceedings are so late that the writer does not feel justified in making any general review of their actions. I t would seem that their Proceedings should be issued more promptly as a journal of this kind, even though issued in small pamphlets, is more desirable than one two or three years old. OSCAR VALVEEDE CARRANZA, M.-.W.-.Grand Master. GEORGE F . BOWDEN, R.-.W.-.Grand Secretary, San Jose.
DELAWARE —1924. Lodges, 22; members, 5,860; net gain, 145. Wilmington, October 1, 1924.
EDWARD W . COOCH, M.-. W.-.
Grand Master. We regret to notice the absence of our Grand Representative at this Communication. The Grand Master offers the following few words of admonition in presenting his annual address: You are now assembled to pass upon the work of the year about to close, and to outline the work of the years to come. Many and varied subjects will have your attention. Many differences of opinion will no doubt be held. I t is the privilege of every member of this body to express his views. In doing this, let us ascribe to every brother as high a motive as we claim for ourselves. Let us look to the Supreme Architect for guidance. Let brotherly love prevail.
Referring to the reception of the Grand Representatives he has the following to say: For the first time in recent years, and perhaps in the history of this Grand Lodge, the Grand Bepresentatlves of our Sister Grand Lodges, have been received by us as duly accredited representatives, which in fact they are. In making this departure from our custom, I was influenced by the knowledge
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CORRESPONDENCE—DELAWARE.
February,
that the friendship and fraternal regard of the several Grand Jurisdictions, one for the other, is ever growing closer and stronger, and in this closer, stronger fellowship, Delaware Masonry has had its full share. The reception today is a slight token of the high regard in which we hold the Jurisdictions with whom we are in fraternal correspondence. Without such fellowship, we would be isolated and alone. With it, we are united and universal. We are pleased t o note the following decision in answer to a question as t o whether a lodge has a right t o attend denominational Divine Services and call a meeting for t h a t purpose: Attending divine services in a denominational church is not Masonic Labor, and it is therefore, improper to open a Lodge for that purpose, to wear the regalia of the Lodge or to talte its paraphernalia. This however, does not prevent individual Masons from attending such services in a body. We likewise take pleasure in quoting the following ruling, which is in thorough accord with our own laws and regulations: When an applicant has been elected to receive the degrees of Masonry, and by subsequent information, it is learned that he has an artificial foot, the election of the applicant is void, he cannot be given t h e degrees, and his initiation fee must be returned. We find in his recommendations one providing for setting aside the sum of $100.00 for the present year, and $50.00 each year hereafter for the purchase of a Masonic library. We also note that this recommendation, which was referred t o their Committee on Jurisprudence, did not bear fruit as the subject was laid over until the next Annual Communication in order t h a t it might be more fully considered. This seems rather peculiar to t h e writer as our Grand Lodge began the work of assembling books for a Masoriic library immediately after it was organized and we now have one of the best Masonic libraries in the world. The following, taken from the Grand Master's conclusion, will no doubt be interesting to our readers: All this has lead me to believe t h a t the Institution has possibilities of which it is itself but barely conscious. Aroused and united, its force could hardly be overestimated. Who knows but that t h e Supreme Architect has preserved it throughout t h e centuries for tlie purpose of carrying out some great design not yet displayed upon His trestle-board. To the constituent Lodges, I leave this message, Keep up the interest! Give the new members instructions for their labors. If differences arise, endeavor to settle them for the best interest of Masonry and in a way that will leave no lasting scars. To the Fraternity as a whole;—Practice the teachings of Masonry in your daily contact with your fellows. There is nothing wrong with our ritual. There is nothing wrong with the Institution itself. The fault Ues with the member who is not and never was a Mason. To my mind, our serious fault is the lack of cohesion. Masonry does not claim to be an aid t o business advancement, or a stepping stone to political progress. But there are many ways that we can lighten a brothers burden, guard his reputation, and aid in his laudable undertakings. Remember that each member is a part of the building material of which the Temple of Masonry Is constructed. Strike at or injure a stone here or a timber there and the
1925-26.
CORRESPONDENCE—DISTRICT
OF COLUMBIA.
Ill
whole edifice itself is weakened and less able to withstand the storms, should we ever be in need of its protective shelter. Strengthen, repair and beautify the several stones and timbers, and the building, as a whole will be correspondingly improved. If Masonry is not what you want it to be, the fault may be with you.
• Brother THOMAS J. DAY presented the Report on Correspondence, but in a somewhat abridged form. We are, however, under obligations for a review of our 1924 Proceedings. CHARLES D . BIRD, M . - . W . - . G r a n d Master, Edge Moor. JOHN F . ROBINSON, R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary, Wilmington.
THOMAS J. DAY, Correspondent.
(Address not given.)
Next Annual, Wilmington, October 7, 1925.
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA —1924. Lodges, 34; members, 22,113; net gain, 981. The first Stated Communication of the year .was held March 8, 1924, at which time M.-.W.-. Brother
CHARLES F . ROBERTS,
Grand Master, presided. At this Communication the so-called unwritten portions of t h e Work of the three degrees was exemplified. We take it that this Communication was called for no other purpose. The next Stated Communication was held May 14, 1924. They were assisted in the opening ceremonies by the Scottish Rite choir. Kansas has the best of our District of Columbia brethren in that we have our own chorus which is in no wise related to the Scottish Rite, arid we are therefore independent of calling on some outside organization for our music. We note that they received as a distinguished visitor a Grand Master of a Provincial Grand Lodge in South Africa, working under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Netherlands. As that Grand Lodge does not seem to be listed among those jurisdictions to whom the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia have extended recognition, we rise to ask how our good brethren at the seat of government extended these honors at this Communication. Under the head of "Retirement of Grand Secretary" we quote the following concerning the relinquishment of the responsibilities of the office of Grand Secretary by our old time friend and brother, ARVINE W . JOHNSTON: WHEREAS, For many years cf Brother JOHNSTON'S incumbency of the oflBce of Grand Secretary he was very inadequately compensated: Therefore, be it Resolved, That if, for the reasons stated, it becomes necessary for him to ask for retirement, he be retired with the title of Grand Secretary Emeritus and with compensation as now received by him for the remainder of his life, in deference to his long, faithful and distinguised services t o the Craft in this jurisdiction and the high regard and esteem in which he is held by the Fraternity.
178
CORRESPONDENCE—DISTRICT
OF COLUMBIA.
February,
Alas, alas, how true it is t h a t the actual worth of a brother such as ARVINE W . JOHNSTON is not appreciated until he either dies or is
compelled, on account of physical infirmities to relinquish the office. I t is then that the good brethren turn toward this distinguished brother their side of sympathy and offer as an excuse for their years of indifference a monetary consideration in the way of an increase, in salary, knowing full well that at most t h e Grand Lodge will not lavish very much of its funds on the good brother as his lease on life is too short. The writer of this report has watched this proceeding in Grand Lodges for more than forty years, and without fear of contradiction, can state that in no instance parallel with this one has the retiring Grand Secretary ever been half compensated for his services, but the one who succeeds him and profits by that which he has sown reaps the harvest, and his salary is immediately placed where it should have been to the benefit of his immediate predecessor many years before. I n offering this comment we make no exception in our own case of thirty-two years of continuous service as Grand Secretary, b u t the shadows have lengthened to an extent where even an offer of increased compensation would be refused and we are therefore willing to take our place along-side of ARVINE W . JOHNSTON, JOHN R . PARSON, CALVIN W . PRATHER, and others.
A Special Communication was held June 30th for the purpose of formally receiving the resignation of Grand Secretary JOHNSTON and
appointing and installing his successor. The Annual Communication was held
December 17, 1924.
CHARLES F . ROBERTS, M.-. W.-. Grand Master. '
We regret to note the absence of our Grand Representative at this Communication. The following is taken from the address of the Grand Master: I t is improbable that anyone elevated t o that high ofBce ever came to the end of his term with the satisfaction of knowing that he had accomplished all that he set out to do. The essentials cf Masonry are not subject to change and, doubtless for this reason, changes, however desirable, in practice and methods are difflcult to inaugurate and J have found that frequently the necessary education, preliminary to these changes, can scarcely be accomplished within the short period of the year during wliich our Grand Masters hold offlce. If in regard to many of the things that I have proposed I have not succeeded in getting beyond t h e stage of preparing the ground and sowing the seed, it was because the preparatory worli was so extensive that time was lacking within which to develop and harvest the crop.
The Grand Master is not wholly satisfied with their present system of Masonic employment, as reflected in the following: The efflcient functioning of the Masonic Employment Bureau is a matter to which I have given frequent and careful consideration diu-ing the past year. I believe it should remain, as it is at present, an agency of the Grand Lodge and under its control. For that reason I do not think that the proposal recently made for a Board of Directors composed of one representative from each lodge, each Eastern Star chapter and one from each of all other contributing allied bodies would provide a practical working management. Such a board
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OF COLUMBIA.
179
would be composed of from 80 to 100 members and its size alone would defeat its purpose. A small managing or executive committee appointed by the Grand Master would be much more efacient. Representation thereon of other grand allied Masonic bodies, contributing to the support of the bureau, could be provided, if thought desirable, of which I am not convinced. It is generally believed that a larger and more active employment bureau should be maintained, and it would tend toward greater efBciency if the ofiBce of the bureau could be located in the Masonic Temple, but the lack of available space renders this latter impracticable at present. I believe and recommend that full power to effect an enlarged reorganization of the bureau along lines that shall seem most desirable and practicable should be granted to the Grand Master. This proposition, without doubt, is most commendable and if some of our Grand Lodges would devote more time and attention to this proposition instead of the Don Quixote-wind-mill educational proposition it would be Masonry in operation. The Grand Master favors the so-called Masonic clubs, but issues a word of caution t h a t their activities be confined to certain channels. The writer cannot distinguish where the difiference comes in between a Grand Lodge recognizing all sorts and various kinds of so-called Masonic clubs and the other thirty or more organizations predicating their membership on the Masonic fraternity, all of which claim to possess meritorious features and are organized for the " u p - l i f t " of humanity. We are pleased to quote the following from the Grand Master's conclusion: Times change arid men change with them. Grand Masters come and go, with varying ideas of the relative values of matters In which our Fraternity is concerned. What appeared important to me may not be so regarded by my successors, but we have the comforting assurance that the policies, principles and ultimate purposes of Freemasonry are fixed and that necessarily the efforts of all are directed toward the same worthy end. Under such conditions energetic cooperation in the larger things will always produce the desired results and. if we couple with fraternal unity of action a respect for and a broad tolerance of the views of others, we shall reap the reward that follows upon conscientious effort. That such may be our lot as a Grand Lodge, as constituent lodges, and as individual Masons, and that the Grand Master of the Universe may bestow upon each brother an abundant measure of health, happiness and prosperity, Is my earnest wish. Fraternal recognition was extended to a Grand Lodge known as t h a t of the Grand Lodge of Romania. We know nothing whatever about this Grand Lodge, b u t we presume it is all right. Brother GEOEGE W - BAIKD, Past Grand Master, submits t h e usual Report on Correspondence, which includes a review of our 1924 Proceedings. Referring t o t h e position taken by our Grand Master, M.\W.'. Brother B I R D , concerning the endorsement of political bills and the like by the Grand Lodge, Brother BAIRD says: The national, as well as the state legislatures have a good sprinkling of Masons, whose fealty to the laws, resolutions and edicts of their Grand Lodges should be as binding as on the humblest member.
180
CORRESPONDENCE—ENGLAND.
February,
The writer is located in the Grand Lodge Building which faces our State House square, and in his long years of service has never known of an instance where a man's Masonry cuts any figure with his politics, or influences him in the least one way or the other in t h e state legislature. They are simply politicians and nothing more. This statement is rather strong, yet the writer ventures even to go further and say that this statement applies not only to those in our ' legislative halls but from the governor down. ROY FULKERSON, M . ' . W . - . Grand Master, Washington. J. CLAUDE K E I P E R , R . ' . W . " . Grand Secretary, Washington. GEORGE W . BAIRD, P.-. G . ' . M.-. , Correspondent, Washington.
UNITED GRAND LODGE OF ENGLAND. Lodges, 4,005; members, 320,000; net gain, . A Quarterly Communication was held on December 3, 1924. The Provincial Grand Master submitted the following report concerning the death of their distinguished brother. General Sir L E E STACK, v/ho was assassinated in Egypt: Brethren, you will no doubt expect before we proceed to the business on the notice paper, some allusion to be made to the tragic event which a fortnight ago excited horror and indignation throughout the civilized world, and caused a grievous loss to His Majesty the King and all his subjects. Ycu will also expect that an opportunity should be afforded you of expressing your feelings as Freemasons, and the feeUngs of all those whom you represent, in regard to the untimely death of the District Grand Master of Egypt and the Sudan, our late R :.'W.: Brother General Sir LEE STACK. That opportunity will be given to you In a formal resolution which I a m about to submit in anticipation of yoxir wishes. I need not dwell upon the circumstances in which our late brother In Masonry was foully done to death by a band of assassins, the very fate which befell the prototype of all true Freemasons. I t will suffice to say that the reasons for exceptional action on the part of Grand Lodge are similar to those which Influenced you a t the death, during t h e War, of another ruler in the Ci aft. our late Brother Field Marshal LORD KITCHENEB. I n each of these cases, the death of a leading Freemason has been a matter of national grief and a loss profoimdly affecting the destinies of the Nation and t h e Empire. At every Quarterly Communication the Board of General Purposes has the melancholy duty of reporting the death of a number of Grand Officers, who have been conspicuous by their devotion to the Craft and, In many cases, distinguished In pubhc life. But Grand Lodge'has always held—and I submit rightly held—that resolutions expressing regret are inappropriate to ordinary mortality In an association so vast and widespread as English Freemasonry. The death of the late SIRDAK, however. Is a matter of such moment to the Nation and the Empire, in the circumstances of the present time, that loyalty and patriotism aUke compel us to place on record our sentiments as Freemasons in regard t o that grievous misfortune. We may reflect with pride that the man, whose high character and brilliant ability made him the indispensable guardian of British honor, British interests, and of oiu" great responsibilities towards the world In Egypt and the Sudan, was a Freemason and one t o whom our M.'.W.-. Grand Master had recently confided a most important trust. It Is little more than six months ago that the Grand Secretary went out to Egypt to Instal Brother General Sir L E E STACK, who was then
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181
Deputy District Grand Master, as District Grand Master, and to confide to his zealous charge the fifteen Lodges in Egypt and the Sudan. The loss t o the District seems to be well nigh irreparable, and our sympathy goes out to the Brethren who were looking up to him as their ruler; while we ourselves are deeply sensible of the loss to the Craft as a whole. But uppermost in our feelings, as men and as Masons; is sympathy for the lady to whom the supreme bereavement came in circumstances of such appalling horror, and for all those who were nearest and dearest to Brother Sir L E E STACK. It is, therefore, to Lady STACK and her family that, as Freemasons, we offer that heartfelt sympathy and condolence, which we feel in common with all our fellow countrymen. Referring to the duties of a Secretary, in submitting all correspondence to the Master, the Provincial Grand Master had the following to, say: What I say is that, while no Secretary of a private lodge has any right whatever to withhold from his Worshipful Master any communication of any kind, whether printed or written, received from the Grand Lodge of England, it is a positive duty, t o which the Master has pledged himself, to make himself acquainted with those decisions. You have it in the Ancient Charges which are read to every Master on his installation, and under "which he solemnly promises to strictly conform to every edict of Grand Lodge. How can he do that if the reports of the Quarterly Communications are kept from him? (hear, hear!) What I always suggest is that Secretaries should n o t neglect the duty of submitting for the perusal of the Worshipful Master before the meeting of the lodge everything they receive from Grand Lodge or Provincial Grand Lodge. The Worshipful Master should then make it. his business to convey that information In his own language to the brethrenof the Lodge. The mere reading of extracts often has a soporific effect (laughter); but if the Worshipful Master exercises those talents which he usually possesses—or certainly ought to possess If he has been made the Master of his Lodge—he can make it interesting at once by conveying the information to the brethren in his own words and thereby carrying out his duty of instructing all brethren in Masonry (applause). The question is that the report of the Board of General Purposes be received, adopted, and entered on the Minutes. The next Quarterly Communication was held March 4, 1925. At this Communication the Grand Master was elected for the ensuing year. Following this the ceremony of presenting a portrait of the Provincial Grand Master occured, which marked a special epoch in the history of the Grand Lodge. The portrait was that of the Rt. Hon. LORD AMPTHILL who for thirty-two years has filled the office of Provincial Grand Master for Bedfordshire, and fifteen years as Provincial Grand Master of the Grand Lodge.
182
CORRESPONDENCE—FLORIDA.
February,
FLORIDA—1925. Lodges, 250; members, 25,871; net gain, 1,643. Jacksonville, April 21, 1925. T . T. TODD, M.-. W.-. Grand Master. We note the Grand Master's name appears in the official roster of Grand Officers and under his likeness with initials only. This may be in accordance with the wishes of the Grand Master, but we are^disposed to consider it out of the ordinary and not in keeping with general Masonic custom. We also note that a large majority of the names entered in the Proceedings are with initials only. Even the name of our own Grand Representative, Brother HARRY B . MINHJM, appears in
the list of Representatives present with initials only. The Grand Master uses the term "Order" in speaking of the Fraternity. His address is good and we take pleasure in quoting the following: You will be delighted to learn that at no time in the history of our Grand Lodge have we been so favorably situated. The bonds of indebtedness on this building have been retired with the exception of $14,000 in Home securities. The property of our Home a t St. Petersburg is entirely clear of incumbrance. The majority of our Lodges are functioning splendidly, with substantial balances to their credit. The future is indeed bright for Masonry, for it Is founded upon principles which insure its perpetuity, and composed almost wholly of men of sterling character striving for the success of its missions, proud of their identity with it and jealous cf its good name. The foundation is well laid and we have only to continue to build, until the resplendent beauty of our Temple will reflect aroxmd the world, proclaiming us the benefactors of mankind and the defenders of virtue and justice.
Referring to their District Deputy Grand Masters he has the following kind words to say concerning their services: In a personal letter I have expressed to each one of them from whom I have received a report, my sincere appreciation of the services rendered the Grand Lodge and myself, and am adding this testimonial of my deep gratitude to them, that it may appear in the printed Proceedings,
He is not unmindful of the absence of their distinguished Brother, M.'. W.'. SILAS B . WRIGHT, who was confined to his home on account
of illness.
M.\ W.\ Brother WRIGHT has been chairman of the Com-
mittee on Correspondence for a number of years; however, at the time he was stricken only a small portion of his report had been prepared and that part of his work is printed in these Proceedings. A note by the Grand Secretary at the end of this brief review states that on April 25th, two days after the close of the Annual Communication, Brother WRIGHT passed away. We feel that Florida- has lost one of its best members and one whose services will be greatly. missed from their councils. The Grand Master is strong for the Masonic Service Association, even to the extent of derogating the beautiful ceremonies of the lodge,
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183
or at least the following words would rather indicate such a feeling, and to the thinking Mason it would mean nothing more or less than setting aside the symbols and allegories for the advancement of an accumulation of modern ideas being carpet-bagged throughout the country: I would not have you think that the actual conduct of lodge affairs and the conferring of degrees are not interesting and most instructive, but each meeting is a repetition of the one preceding it, and we could hardly criticize our members who are not ofBcers of the lodge or actually .engaged in the degree worls, should they miss a meeting at times.
Under the subject of "Chain Prayer" he has the following to say: There seems to be no doubt but that the original sender has designs on Masonry, and that he circulates this splutter with the intention of causing trouble and confusion. If this were not true, he would have discontinued the practice after the first denunciation in an Edict issued by Grand Master YOBK, but the practice continues and I would recommend that the recipient of a copy make an immediate effort to trace it to the original sender and thus put a stop to It.
He rendered twenty-one decisions, some of which are quite interesting. One lodge requested permission to install their officers in the parish house of the Episcopal Church. The Grand Master refused their request on the ground that the lodge room was the only proper, place to hold an installation. Owing to forced circumstances one of their lodges asked permission to hold their Communications on the ground floor; The Grand Master stated that owing to long practice of-meeting in upper rooms they would have to make other arrangements. Another lodge received four applications from Gypsies claiming residence within the jurisdiction of the lodge. The Grand Master advised them this was largely a question with the investigating committee. We wonder that there were not at least seven applications so that our Gypsey brethren might carry a lodge along with them in their travels over the country. ' Upon inquiry the Grand Master granted permission for one of their lodges to receive and act on a petition from an applicant who had been rejected in a Pennsylvania lodge. Now we will expect to see the "fur fly." The installation of their Grand Treasurer, Grand Secretary and Grand Chaplain, who were re-elected, and several appointive officers who were retained. Was omitted as it seems to be the custom in that jurisdiction to install an officer only once so long as he retains the same position. LAMAR G . CARTER, M . \ W . " . G r a n d Master, Gainesville. WiLBER P. WEBSTER, R . \ W . ' . Grand Secretary, Jacksonville. E L Y P . HUBBELL, Correspondent, Bradenton.
Next Annual, Jacksonville, April 20, 1926.
184
CORRESPONDENCE—GEORGIA.
February,
GEORGIA —1924. Lodges, 680; members, 70,267; n e t gain, 2,923. M a c o n , O c t o b e r 2 8 , 1924.
JAMES D . HAMRICK,
M.-.W.-.Grand
Master. • • T h a t p o r t i o n of t h e ceremony incident t o t h e opening of t h e G r a n d Lodge is certainly w o r t h y of being q u o t e d a s it refers t o one of t h e m o s t r e m a r k a b l e Masonic records of a n y M a s o n i n a n y jurisdiction: That beloved veteran of seventy Masonic and ninety-one natural years, M.'.W.;. Past Grand Master JAMES W . TAYLOR, received an ovation of love from the brrand Lodge when he answered present for the sixty-fifth consecutive annual roll call of the Grand Lodge. , Brother P . T. M C C U T C H E N , our Grand Representative, was present. F r o m t h e address of t h e G r a n d M a s t e r w e a r e pleased t o q u o t e t h e following: Our great Order is a constant inspiration to unity of piu-pose, fraternity of action. We are boimd together for a common piu-pose—mutual advancement' and mutual benefits. As the spokes of a wheel become nearer to each other as they approach the hub, the source of motion, so may be found in our Union the key to greater power, broader vision, and a more exalted outlook on life. It is the men who lead useful lives, quietly doing life's duties, who make good homes, thus making good communities and good states, who, unseen and well-nigh unknown work out their existence in bettering and uplifting those about them. Those are the men who are truly great: and this standard requires neither wealth, prestige nor applause. The vast majority of us may live up to this standard and become justly entitled to the respect of our fellow men. May we ever remember that each of us Is a free-born, Gon-created, GoDfearing, integral part of Masonry, and that its vigor and benefits are in large measures dependent upon our individual, practical application of its teachings In our dally lives and duties. Someone has well said: " T h e present generation of Masons are in no wise responsible for the past; they may be largely responsible for the future; but the entire responsibility of the present rests with them." There must be an exact correspondence between our professions and our actions; otherwise we shall be found teaching that which is not supported by oiu' deeds. It is not so much what a Mason professes, as what he does, that furnishes the standard of measurement appUed by the world at large, and the living question which confronts us today is: " W h a t are the fruits of Freemasonry in the lives and conduct of those who profess it? "
* * * * * * Every Mason shall aim to be a perfect workman, building with the utmost care the temple of his own life, a temple whose corner-stone is virtue and purity of heart, upon which he builds by the cultivation and improvement of all his reasoning faculties and intellectual powers. If Freemasons fail to build their lives into beautiful temples, it is not for the lack of a perfect pattern, plan and precedent. Their faith teaches them that the perfect pattern is not of the world, nor in themselves, but in the mind of •he Supreme Grand Master.
1925-26.
CORRESPONDENCE—GEORGIA.
185
Masonry Is, above all things, a study of that pattern. In its symbolism every Mason may find the perfect plan—the perfect precedent revealed in the perfect man—the Master of Israel, the superintendent of building, the real Prince of the Tabernacle. He builds in vain who builds by any other pattern. Work according to this alone is good work, square work, such work as wo are authorized to receive. He who thinks that he has accomplished all there is to be learned in t h e entire field of intellectual and moral teachings of Masonry, deceives himself. The most experienced among us had gained but a superficial view, while h e who had learned the simplest lessons taught by the tenacity of the Acacia, h a s linked his soul to the Infinite, built a temple thereon whose comer-stone Is taken from the quarries of Eternal Truth, and whose timbers are stronger than the cedars of Lebanon. They now have a fully equipped print shop at their Masonic Home and from which is issued a Masonic paper known as The Messenger. The Grand Master makes a strong appeal for funds to carry on the work of their Home. In covering this subject, among other things, he has the following to say: Yoiu: Home stands in crying need for funds to carry it on and the Board has been compelled to refuse admission to children that applied for entrance into the Home. Shall we refuse admission to some and care for others? Surely not. Your educational fund is below what a generous and warm-hearted Mason, would wish it to be, and what is in keeping with the high ideals and spirit of Masonry that believes in the enlightenment and education, one of the cardinal virtuea. of this great Fraternity. :.. We sincerely hope the appeal of the Grand Master will be heeded and that they may be as successful in increasing the funds for this purpose as we are in Kansas. The Grand Master undoubtedly was a busy man in the matter of visiting lodges as it requires six pages to enroll his visits. From the report of the Committee on General Welfare we quote the following interesting words: Yoiu- committee is of the opinion that the conferring of degrees is only the initiatory step in the making of Masons. The time was when the latter development was crude and the Masonic student had to work out for himself much information which Is now a t hand almost for the asking. I t has simply been a matter of evolution. In previous years there was not a sufficient demand for what might be termed as text books, to justify their preparation, but now times havechanged. The day of Masonic literature has dawned, and to fail to follow up the completion of degree work is almost criminal, if considered in the light of duty. Besides, it Is a delightful task, both to teacher and student. Masonic books are to be had at prices comparable to the cost of every day novels, and a library may be installed in a lodge with but the outlay of a few dollars. Some of our lodges have already Installed them, and your Committee would reconimend this as another field of opportunity for the Educational Committee, and would urge our subordinate lodges to appoint a Committee to Investigate and install a Masonic library. Brother RAYMOND DANIEL presents the Report on Correspondence, and from his introduction we quote the following: The word "Involution," while primarily signifying taking-In, gathering-in, or blending or merging, goes beyond the mere interpretation of things in their
186
CORRESPONDENCE—IDAHO.
February,
necessary relations: hence, if any person or thing Involves another, they must go'tbgether by and in an indissoluble connection. The greatest asset that Freemasonry possesses today, in addition to its glirlfled principles, is its reunion of thought. There was a time, we shudder af the memory, when our beloved Fraternity faced the danger of a revolution within itself. I t was when the influences of the "War were making their impifessions upon advocates of innovations, of meddling in political affairs, of creating themselves and the Fraternity into a rehgious oligarchy as dangerous as that which they sought to combat. They were the would-be sowers of a new wind that would have but reaped the whirlwind. "While a few such unwise proponents still exist, as they will always exist, the Noblemen of the Craft are renewing their belief in and allegiance to the principle that the achievements of Freemasonry lie In the acknowledgment of GOD as the Supreme Factor and in concern and care for all mankind. Out of t h e dangers of Masonic Revolution has come the involution of Brotherhood—the containing within brotherly love all the relations in which we are involved m t h the world. In the Involution of Brotherhood, the Freemason has a dual duty and responsibility—to his Fraternity and to the TiVorld, which we will call the Public. As Freemasons, we are well aware of the duty we owe to the Institution. Oftentimes we lightly accept certain expressed precepts that " we are the stewards of ali'mankind." Yet the more we fulfill our duty to Freemasonry in the development of educational and benevolent ideals, the more we are recognizing the obligation that we owe t o the Public. We regret to note that our suggestion to the Grand Secretary of Georgia did not bear fruit as t h e outside back cover of the Proceedings .remains blank, and in order to ascertain "who is the present Grand Master and Grand Secretary, we must hunt through the Proceedings from beginning to end. We, however, are unable to state the date sthd place for holding the next Annual Communication, although we have no doubt this information is contained in the Proceedings. •TAMES D . HAMRICK, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Carrollton. FRANK F . BAKER, R . - . W . ' . Grand Secretary, Macon.
IDAHO —1924. Lodges, 7 7 ; members, 9,500; n e t gain, 3 6 5 . L e w i s t o n , S e p t e m b e r 9, 1924. V I C T O R P E T E R S O N , M . ' . W . - . G r a n d
Master. B r o t h e r S H E R M A N M . G O F F I N , our G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e , was present. I n referring t o t h i s A n n u a l C o m m u n i c a t i o n being t h e first one h e i ^ in L e w i s t o n , t h e G r a n d M a s t e r h a d t h e following t o s a y : This is the first time that the Annual Commimlcation of the Grand Lodge has been held in Lewiston. About sixty-one years ago, on November'26, 1863. the Grand Lodge of Wastilngton chartered Lewiston Lodge No. 10, the first In laiBo; a;tthls place. That lodge did not long survive. Its Charter had been given up before this Grand Lodge was organized. Lewiston was then an outfitting place for miners, with a small and changing population. I t Is now one of the
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most substantial and important cities in Idaho. It is a pleasure to welcome you here, to the Fifty-seventh Annual Communication of this Grand Lodge. You will like Lewiston, and I trust that you will feel that you have beeii benefitted by your attendance at the session.
One of their lodges elected a brother as Master who at the time was confined to his home by illness. The installing officer went to the home of the brother and there installed him. The Grand Master ruled that the installation was irregular and void and it was therefore necessary to install this brother at a subsequent Communication. He was asked whether it was permissible to remit the fees for the degrees to a minister for services rendered. His answer of course was in the negative. Under their law there is no discrimination' as to fees because of a man's business or profession. He ruled that a lodge had a legal right to receive a petition for the degrees from one who had lived the required length of time within the jurisdiction of the lodge, notwithstanding the fact that he had been rejected in a lodge in another jurisdiction. Another lodge asked whether it was proper to endorse a civic society for commendable law enforcement, or to start a movement for the closing of a Sunday picture show. His answer was in the negative based on a statement that it might bring the lodge into partisan politics. Under the subject of " T h e Craft," we take pleasure in quoting the following: During and immediately following the World War, the increase in membership was phenomenal. The growth now is more normal. The rapid growth did not signify that character was not closely investigated. But the sudden Influx of a large number of new members, not grounded in the philosophy of the Institution, brought new problems. In places there was a tendency toward direct action on the issues of the day. Some Masonic Bodies in the country went so far as to endorse measures pending in Congress. Because of t h e size and influence of the Fraternity, there are those who would make it appear that their particular society, measure or belief is favored by " t h e Masons," thereby hoping to win popular favor. They are mistaken. Masonry does not concern itself with the political or religious Issues of the day. Its field is the human heart. Founded on love of GOD and for our fellow men, it impresses on the mind of the initiate the need of clean living and upright action. It unites good men and true of every country, sect and opinion, but it leaves them free In their poUtical and religious beliefs. With the return of normal growth, we can hope that the tendency toward entering fields that are foreign to us will disappear.
A Special Committee has been appointed to revise their funeral service. As such a service is almost a Landmark we are wondering what the outcome of the proposition will be and what form they propose to use for this service. On the second day the corner-stone of the new Science Hall of the University at Moscow was laid by the Grand Lodge. We notice, however, the ceremony was performed after the Grand Lodge was called
188
CORRESPONDENCE—IDAHO.
February,
to Refreshment. Are we to understand t h a t our Idaho brethren perform ceremonies of this kind without opening a lodge? We take pleasure in quoting the following from the report of this occasion: This is the first occasion in the history of the Grand Lodge of Idaho when the Grand Lodge in Annual Communication lias suspended its routine labors and turned aside for a time to perform this ancient and impressive ceremony of laying the corner-stone of a public building. And the day will always mark an important event in the history of the Grand Lodge of Idaho, as well as that of the University of Idaho, for the welfare of that institution should and doubtless does touch the heart and pride of every Mason throughout the state. —The-Report on Correspondence was submitted by Brother JOHN W. SHORE and in its preparation he follows the lines laid down by his worthy predecessor, R.". W.'. Brother GEORGE E . KNEPFER. We take pleasure in quoting the following from Brother SHORE'S introduction: Neither have I occupied much space in listing the visitors at the Annual Communications of the various Grand Jurisdictions. As a matter of fact, the distinguished visitors in a good many cases were the same brethren who were occupied for one reason and another in making a more or less extended tour of the various Grand Jurisdictions and in some cases their remarks were repeated with slight variations from time to time in their travels. The new feature which has come up in the foregoing Proceedings is the almost universal apprehension which is expressed by Grand Masters and others with regard to: (1) the quality of the newmembersUp; (2) the reasons, good or otherwise, which actuate these new members in seeking admission to the Order, and (3) the influence of the ever-increasing number of organizations which are being hitched on to the body of Ancient Craft Masonry. 1 have deemed it my duty to present such things as I believe are of interest to the brethren with all possible impartiality, and have, therefore, refrained from injecting too much of my own personal views, and possibly my own personal bias, into the comments, which are almost inevitable in order to compile an intelligent and readable narrative. We are under obligations for an excellent review covering our 1924 Proceedings. FRANK KNOX, M . \ W . ' . Grand Master, Emmett. CURTIS F . P I K E , R . \ W . - . Grand Secretary, Boise. JOHN W . SHORE, Correspondent, Boise. i'
Next Annual, Pocatello, September 8, 1925.
1925-26.
CoBBESPONDENCE—ILLINOIS.
189
ILLINOIS-1925. Lodges, 979; members, 279,596; net gain, 8,222. Chicago, October 13, 1925.
RICHARD C . DAVENPORT, M . - . W . - . •
Grand Master. All Grand Officers were present with the exception of their Grand Senior Warden, Brother Louis L. EMMERSON, who wired a message of
greetings from South America. They had as an honored guest M.-. W.-. Brother ORESTES M I T -
CHELL, Grand Master of Missouri, who addressed the Grand Lodge
in an interesting manner. We take pleasure in quoting the following from the preface to t h e Grand Master's address: The Craft is working harmoniously, and from the number of temples being built and the increase in membership as shown by the returns to the Grand Secretary we may conclude that Masonry in Illinois is still In a flourishing condition. I have had the pleasure of visiting many lodges throughout the state and in each have been most cordially received. The fraternal spirit and interest manifested indicate that both the lodges and their ofBcers are interested in t h e work and ready to conform to our laws and customs. In most cases where t h e law has been violated it has been more through ignorance than intention, which gives fresh emphasis to the ever-present need for study of our Masonic jurisprudence.
Under "Decisions" we find one wherein the Grand Master granted permission for one of their members to become a "joining member" of a lodge in Argentine, South America, working under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of England, which meant practically dual membership. He ruled, however, that while he could become a joining member in that jurisdiction he must continue to pay his annual dues in t h e Illinois lodge. The decision was referred to the Committee on Jurisprudence, who reversed the Grand Master's decision, stating t h a t under their Law membership could not be retained in both lodges. The Grand Master was advised that a Master of one of their lodges was conducting himself in a manner unbecoming a Mason and an officer of a lodge, whereupon the Grand Master commissioned the Deputy Grand Master to visit the lodge and remove this brother from office. Under the head of "Character of Lodge Entertainment," t h e Grand Master had the following to say: Many of our Masters seem to have a rather distorted idea of the kind of entertainment the members of their lodges desire. Several cases have been brought to my attention during the year of proposed entertainments not in keeping with the dignity of the fraternity. In one instance a lodge planned to give a banquet and dance in a well-known cafe, on Sunday night. In other cases entertainments of a vulgar nature were proposed. One lodge gave an extremely undignified entertainment but was promptly disciplined when knowledge of it reached this ofllce. In the other cases the entertainments were cancled at my order.
190
COBEBSPONDENCE—ILLINOIS.
February,
Good wholesome entertainment in a lodge a t the proper time Is very desirable. Masons must realize, however, that our fraternity is a dignified and honorable institution, founded upon ideals of respect and reverence, and will not tolerate questionable entertainment or desecration of the Sabbath Day. The following, taken from the report of their Committee on Jurisprudence, explains itself and as this is one of the many commercial and social propositions which have either directly or indirectly crept into the Masonic family it is submitted as a matter of information to our readers: The M.'. W.-. Grand Master has handed to us the prospectus of an incorporated insurance company, and requests our opinion in regard to it. On the cover page of this prospectus we find the following inscription: "United Low Twelve Clubs, Inc." The definition of imited is given as follows: "'United' —joined, combined together,-made o n e " ; and we find this significant statement, " F o r members of A. F. & A. M., Eastern Star, True Kindred, Order of Builders and DeMolay." Inside the cover page we find this statement: "Permanent offlces, when completed. United Masonic Temple, Randolph near State St., Chicago, Illinois." On page 4 in spealdng of the proofs of death we find the following: " D u e proofs of death. All that is required is for the Master or Matron, together with the Secretary of the lodge or chapter, to witness the signature of the beneficiary, attach the seal of the lodge or chapter, and the money can be collected from our regular bank or this office. The draft is signed by the officers of the insurance company when you receive it." On page 8 appears the following question and answer: "Q. What is the United Low Twelve Clubs? Ans. I t is an organization exclusively for members of A. F. & A. M., Eastern Star, True Kindred, Order of Builders and DeMolay." On page 11 the following question and answer appear: " Q . If a member of the United Low Twelve Cliibs dies what is necessary for the beneficiary to do to collect the claim? Ans. Sign a sight draft which is in their possession, have the signature witnessed by t h e Secretary, Master or Matron of t h e lodge or chapter, and cash it the same as you would a check." Your Committee regards this not only as a clear violation of both the letter and spirit of Codes 715, 716 and 717, but as an iU-advised and thinly veiled attempt to commercialize Masonry and use it to exploit every organization that claims any relation to Ancient Craft Masonry. This great fraternity must be on its guard. I t is already surrounded by satellites basking in Its reflected glory. They a,re increasing from year to year. I t is true that Masonry does not recognize any of them as a constituent part of itself; it simply tolerates their claims and sheds its glory t o be reflected by them. I t permits its members to enter them so long as their aims are good; and such members enter as individuals, leaving their Masonry in their Masonic lodges. This M .•. W .•. Grand Lodge may have no right to set aside a charter granted by legal authority authorizing a company t o exploit it and its members as well as every organization which claims kin to it, but it clearly has the right, and should exercise it without hesitation, to say t o all Masons under its jurisdiction, you shall take no part in it. We regret that time will not permit of a more extended review of these Proceedings; however, the printer is pulling his hair and yelling for final copy and we must close with' only a brief reference to the Report on Correspondence prepared by Brother ELMER E . BEACH. I n his review we find a short report dealing with our 1925 Proceedings and we take this opportunity of correcting'him in the-statement t h a t cordial relations between our Grand Lodge and' t h a t of New
1925-26.
CORRESPONDENCE—INDIANA.
191
Hampshire have been restored. Brother BEACH evidently failed to read what we had to say last year on this subject very carefully; otherwise he would have noted that conditions in this particular have not changed in the least and so far as we are personally concerned we have lost all interest in the subject. RiCHAED C. DAVENPORT, M.-.W.-.Grand Master, Harrisburg. OWEN SCOTT, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Decatur. ELMER E . BEACH, P . - . G . - . M . - . , Correspondent, Chicago.
Next Annual, Chicago, October 12, 1926.
INDIANA —1925. Lodges, 557; members, 124,102; net gain, 3,129. Indianapolis, May 26, 1925.
J. L E E DINWIDDIE, M.-.W .-.Grand
Master. In the "Foreword" we find an interesting address by Brother ROBERT C . BALTZELL, Judge of the Federal District Court. . I t is
customary to hold an open meeting prior to the Annual Communication, at which some brother is invited to deliver an address, which in this case fell to the lot of Brother BALTZELL.
We are pleased to quote
the following from his excellent oration: During my short life I feel that I have had no greater honor than that bestowed when the Grand Master invited me to address you upon this occasion. A body of men gathered together for a purpose such as that for which we are assembled represents, in my opinion, the best class of citizens we have In our country. We are taught that we are first prepared to be a Mason In our heart, and, that being true, after we have taken the various obligations necessary to make of us a Master Mason, we are certainly better men and better equipped for the duties of life than we were prior to the time we took such obligations. There is nothing more beautiful than a company of men brought together by a solemn pledge to guard each other's good name and to maintain the purity of the home. There are human vultures going about for no other purpose than to tear down and destroy the good name of a brother, but the Masonic Order steps In and says to those human vultures: " T h u s far shalt thou go and no farther." A Mason Is pledged to protect the home of a brother from the attack of a moral assassin, and, In fact, to aid and assist any worthy brother In distress; and not only that, for If our Order were only an order of friendship which brings together strong, upright and noble men, working together for a common good. It would still be a sacred shrine, for friendship is one of the noblest emotions that dwells in the breast of mankind. I t is unselfish and imfalUng—a thing so Bacred that wealth can not buy, power command, nor death destroy, and the more firmly we are bound by the ties of frlendsliip and love, the more farreaching will be our influence and the more good can we do in this life.
We regret to note the absence of our Grand Representative at this interesting Communication'. The' Graiid Master" siibriiits' a' business-like' address, but' gives no op'portiiriity to quote from the preface-as he makes only the commo'nplace reference to the honor conferred upon him and the like.
192
COBRESPONDENCE—INDIANA.
February,
During the year he sent to the Sojourners' Club, at Ft. Bayard, New Mexico, the sum of $500.00 to help in defraying the expenses of • t h a t organization. . Under the head of "Applications for Endorsements" we quote the following, and are almost tempted to ask our printer to use black face type in printing these remarks which were as follows: I have received a great many applications from various persons and organizations, reauesting the endorsement of the Grand Lodge upon their enterprise. I have invariably declined to accede t o their requests. Some of them are possibly worthy, but it was simply a scheme to get business from Masonic Ledges and Masters by the endorsement by the Grand Jurisdiction of Indiana. I t is my judgment that it is not good practice, or a good policy for a Grand Lodge to endorse any movement of this kind, or any movement that is not safely within the Landmarks of Masonry. We trust they will be read in every lodge in our own jurisdiction. He was asked to lay corner-stones on Sunday, which requests were promptly declined for the same reasons. as given in our own jurisdiction under like circumstances. One of their lodges desired to know if a brother who had carried a dimit for more than two years had a right to sit in a lodge. To this the Grand Master replied that such brother could not legally sit in one of their lodges as their regulations provided that one carrying a dimit for two years or more could not visit lodges in their jurisdiction. He was asked for an opinion as to whether it was proper to use the social rooms on nights when lodge was in session. We take pleasure in quoting his answer as it will be of interest to many of our own lodges: I answered tba.t all social rnnins shcjld be dark en nights v.^hcn Ledge is in session, and it is the duty of the Worshipful Master t o see that this is done, and to do any and all other things that are for the best interest of the Order and the Lodge over which he presided. A member who says if he cannot play cards in the social room he does not care to attend Lodge, is surely lacking in Masonic spirit. If card playing is lu'gher or more important to him than Masonry, it surely can make but little difference to Masonry whether he is there or not. Masonry is higher than card playing, and a Mason should attend Lodge for what he may do for Masonry, and what it, in return, may do tor him. The following few words from his conclusion will no doubt be appreciated by our readers: Brethren, Masonry is engaged in a bigger field of labor today than ever before, and needs bigger, better Masons now than ever in the annals of history, and you who can, and will, a service render, are doing the will of Him who gave you life, health and povrer to do. Then, when in Memory's Garden you are plowing, plow deep a furrow that will reveal the memory of the Mother, whose prayers ascended to GOD above your play and prattle at her knee, that you might grow and become a big broad-minded, manly man. Then plow another furrow in the Garden of Memory, deep and wide, that wUI reveal the memories of your Mother Lodge, where, while at the Altar, prayers of the earnest, faithful Mason, were offered to GOD, that you might grow Masonically, and become a big, broad, true-minded, manly Mason.
1925-26.
CORRESPONDENCE—IOWA.
193
From the Grand Instructor's Report we feel that the following is worthy of being quoted: I have found that the need of instruction is not confined to the small Lodges, for in many of them great interest and zeal is shown; in many of the Lodges of large membership, on the other hand, I found a lack of interest on the part of the officers and members. This lack of interest is sometimes shown by the officers not being proficient in the Work and depending on Past Masters to do the Ceremonial Work; in others a lack of interest is shown by violations of Masonic Kules. If a strict conformity to the General Eegulations Is not enforced by a Lodge the dignity of the Fraternity can not be upheld in that comimmity. Each Lodge is bound by the terms of its charter to observe all the laws, rules and regulations of the Grand Lodge, and any Lodge that does not conform faithfully to these laws, rules and regulations deserves a penalty commensurate to the seriousness of its violation of them. In a few of the Lodges visited in the last year I found WorsUpful Masters who could not confer any of the degrees and depended on Past Masters to do all this for them. No Lodge ever should select an oflicer who can not, or will not, perform the duties of his office. It is no lienor to the officer and is a great detriment to the Lodge.
They adopted a law providing for the transfer of membership, similar to that employed in our own jurisdiction. Having passed through the experience, we realize full well just what Brother SWINTZ has before him during the present year. We tried the same proposition . for several years and the damage done our records under the law, which was practically the same as that adopted by our Indiana brethren, can never be repaired. Experience, although a bitter dose, resulted in the law as we now have it and we would be pleased to furnish a copy of our law on this subject to our Indiana brethren. M.'. W.'. Brother ELMER F . GAY prepared their Annual Review
of Proceedings; however, we regret he found no space for Kansas. ALBERT W . FUNKHOUSER, M.'.W.-.Grand Master, Evansville. WILLIAM H . SWINTZ, R.-.W.". Grand Secretary, Indianapolis. ELMER F . GAY, P . - . G . ' . M . - . , Correspondent, Indianapolis.
Next Annual, Indianapolis, May 25, 1926.
IOWA —1925. Lodges, 555; members, 85,707; net gain, 1,836. Davenport, June 9, 1925.
ERNEST ROBERT MOORE, M . ' . W.".
Grand Master. We find as one of the frontispieces to this volume a halftone of the New Masonic Temple at Davenport, in which the Grand Lodge held its Communication. The Grand Lodge was opened in " D u e F o r m " by the Deputy Grand Master, after which the Grand Master was presented in a formal manner.
194
COBBESPONDENCE—IOWA.
February,
An address of welcome was extended by the mayor of the city. Brother L o u i s E . RODDEWIG, and we take pleasure in quoting the following from his remarks: Masonry has always stood supremely in the belief of GOD,—in our Country as defined by our Forefathers and as laid down by the Constitution of the United States, and of the Golden Rule, in its dealing with its fellowmen; tolerance, law and order, and respect for constituted'authority and its ideals wlU always continue to be a part of its grand and noble teachings. The hours, the days, the weeks, the months, yea the years that the grand men of this distinguished body have so unselfishly devoted to uplifting, educating, and enlightening mankind to see the light and inculcate the Fatherhood of GOD and promulgate the Brotherhood of Man, will live forever,—always carrying out the principle of putting more into life than you expect to take out. The response was made by the Deputy Grand Master, R.-. W.'. Brother F R E D G . HANSEN, and among other things he had the following to say: Freemasonry, its philosophy, its history and its wonderful record of achievement, all tend toward the enlightenment of the people and the betterment and upbxulding of the human family. I t teaches a morality and inculcates in its ritualism the development of the intellect so that men begin to reason and refiect. When men reason and think, they begin to differ. So we expect that in this Grand Lodge there will be differences of opinion, and it is perhaps well that it be so, because only the unenlightened masses are unanimous in their opinions, and then only because they do not think, neither do they reason. m * * * * * Masonry, my brethren, is founded upon the great and noble principles of Truth and Justice; right living and clear thinking, and I am impressed with the thought that Masonry's greatest opportunity still lies within itself, the duty of so educating and elevating its votaries that, in his dally life, each will be a living exponent and embodiment of all that is just and upright in Masonry. Not by strength of numbers, but by the strength of character of the individual Mason may we hope for success, and I urge, my brethren! that in this Grand Lodge you bo actuated only by those higher and nobler thoughts so that your Judgments and enactments here may refiect credit upon you, upon the brethren you today represent, and also have a wholesome and beneficial influence upon the community at large. The Grand Master in submitting his annual address, among other things, offers the following as a justification for his acts during the year, and which in a large measure is reflected in the addresses of most Grand Masters: If I have, even in a minor measure, maintained the high ideals of these men and directed my efforts to maintain and forward what they have so well planned, I am content. Permit me to say that no plan of theirs or labor of mine would be of value without the fine spirit and active co-operation of the whole Craft. A desire to do and a wilUngness to unselfishly serve has been evident in every part of the Jiu-isdiction. He made the following recommendation concerning the Masonic Service Association of the United States, which was adopted: To the end that this matter shall receive proper attention, and in a proper Masonic spirit, I recommend that authority be given t o the incoming Grand Master, acting with the approval of an Advisory Committee, to be appointed
1925-26.
COBBESPONDENCE—IOWA.
195
by Mm, to continue such membership, or to consummate our withdrawal under notice heretofore flled by me.
He speaks in very high terms concerning their own Masonic Service Committee and recommends its approval by the Grand Lodge. To this committee is assigned the duty of arranging for lectures and addresses throughout their jurisdiction, as well as the dispensing of reading matter. We take it that this is quite similar to our formal address, which is read annually at our district meetings and subsequently in every lodge. To our notion this is so far ahead of the Masonic Service Association of the United States that there is not even a comparison, and this is the feeling among our own brethren. For a number of years the Grand Secretary has issued bi-monthly what is known as "The Bulletin." The Grand Master believes t h a t it is worthy of being published monthly, and the Grand Lodge acquiesced in his recommendation. We are very much pleased to note this change in the issue as we consider it a very valuable pamphlet. The writer was somewhat surprised at the Grand Master's brief reference to their late Grand Secretary, Brother NEWTON R . PARVIN, and we quote it in its entirety, as follows: The death of Brother NEWTON K . PARVIN created a vacancy In the office of Grand Secretary, which it became my duty to fill. Having full confidence In the character and the ability of Brother CHARLES C. HUNT; Deputy Grand Secretary, I named him to fill the unexpired term. He has performed and Is performing the work most satisfactorily. With the advent of new management in this ofQce, it may now be advisable to adopt more modern accounting methods and policies. The attention of the proper authority, or authorities, should bo turned to this, for by simple changes and rearrangements better service can be given and operating expense materially reduced. If the power is not already so vested, there should be given to the Grand Lodge Trustees the authority to counsel and direct the Grand Secretary In the employment of help, the salaries to be paid, and in the arrangement and co-ordination of the work both In the office of the Grand Secretary and in the Library.
We had anticipated a formal reference to this distinguished Craftsman which would stand alone as a masterpiece, not only to his efficiency, but also for the long years of faithful and conscientious service rendered their Grand Lodge. He served as Grand Secretary for the past twenty-four years, and performed similar duties in that office for twenty-three years prior to the time he was elected to that exalted station. His life as a Grand Secretary is also linked with that of his father, who served in that office for fifty-seven years, making eighty-one years of combined official service to the Grand Lodge of Iowa, and to this is to be added his twenty-three years as clerk and Deputy, making all told one hundred four years of service rendered the Grand Lodge of Iowa by himself and his father. As will be noted from the above, the Grand Master in covering this subject, first announces the appointment of si successor to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Brother PARVIN; then without com-
196
CORRESPONDENCE—IOWA.
February,
ment assumes that with the change of management in this office it might be well to adopt a more modern accounting system, and suggests that this matter be called to the attention of the proper authority or authorities for necessary changes and rearrangements for better service, with a material reduction in operating expenses. In measuring the value of a Masonic Grand Lodge Library and Museum, such as that possessed by the Grand Lodge of Iowa, the weighing of the sheckles should not be considered. This great library, which is distinctly the creation of Brothers THEODORE SUTTON PARVIN and NEWTON RAY
PARVIN, is and has been known to the Masonic world for many years, and is recognized as the most complete in the world, and therefore great honor is due the memory of these two brethren. The writer of this report is now closing his thirty-second year as Grand Secretary, having assumed this responsible office at a time when our Grand Lodge had no records and no library, and in fact we were not even possessed of a desk or an ink well, yet we are vain enough, from our own point of view, to believe that the equipment and records are the most complete of any Grand Jurisdiction in the world, to say nothing of our valuable library and museum, as well as the splendid fireproof building in which the offices are located. We realize, however, that when the present incumbent will have relinquished the office, decided changes will doubtless be made in the system, but we sincerely trust that they will be made only after due deliberation and allowing ample time to elapse before a Grand Master will even make such a recommendation. We assume that a Grand Master speaks for the Craft in his own jurisdiction and in matters of this kind the words of a Grand Master are more forceful and effective than the report of any committee or the words spoken by any individual member. We note that the recommendation of the Grand Master was disposed of by the Committee on Grand Master's Address as follows: The Grand Master's suggestion of economy in tlie administration of the affairs of the ofBce is in harmony with liis many wise suggestions.
We are unable to judge whether this brief reference in the report of the committee meant an approval of his suggestions, or a disapproval, or whether it was a case of "passing the buck." We find as a preface to this volume of t h e Proceedings a halftone of the Grand Master, M.-.W.-. Brother ERNEST ROBERT MOORE, and
immediately following it, five pages are devoted to a biographical sketch of this distinguished brother. Later on in the Proceedings we find a splendid likeness of Brother PARVIN, prefaced by a brief, one page, biographical sketch. Under the head of "Grand Orient of France" the Grand Master recommends that fraternal relations with that body be suspended, which recommendation was approved by the Grand Lodge. We are pleased to inform our brethren that the Grand Lodge of Kansas has never recognized, as regular, any of the so-called Grand Orients or Grand Lodges of France, and we respectfully refer our readers to the
1925-26.
CORRESPONDENCE—IOWA.
197
special report of this committee on that subject as contained in our 1919 Proceedings. Upon the recommendation of the Grand Master their law was changed providing for the transfer of membership from one lodge to another in exactly the same form as that adopted by our own Grand Lodge several years ago, except a brother cannot petition for membership until after a residence of six months within the jurisdiction of a lodge, and only a two-thirds vote is required to elect. Under this law the transfer of membership is left absolutely between the two lodges interested, and we have no doubt that our Iowa brethren will find out in a short time just as we did, that this system is a snare and delusion and is only conducive of mixing up the membership in the various lodges by means of duplication brought about through the carelessness of secretaries, and there will be no end of grief in the office of the Grand Secretary, to say nothing of his inability to make a correct report to Grand Lodge concerning their membership. If our Iowa brethren will amend their law as we did, requiring that all such transfers be made-through the office of the Grand Secretary, they will have no trouble, but of course it adds considerable work to the Grand Secretary and his assistants. We are pleased to quote the following from the Grand Master's conclusion: Let all understand the great purposes of Masonry. Let all hold fast to its fundamental principles. Let all realize that membership carries not only privilege but responsibility. Let all remember that while privileges are common to the Craft, responsibilities are personal. Let it not be truthfully said that we are selfish or self-centered but that every noble thought and precept taught us shall be carried into our lives to make in our communities for better manhood and higher and more appreciative citizenship. Only by so doing can we be justified to ourselves and to the world. Brother CHARLES C . HUNT, the new Grand Secretary, presents
an interesting report, along the same lines as those of his immediate predecessor. In his report he refers in a very complimentary manner to Brother PARVIN.
Brother HUNT, like Brother PARVIN, is Librarian
as well as Grand Secretary, and presents a most interesting report. Under the head of " T h e Parvin Library" we learn that the private library of Brother PARVIN was presented to the Grand Lodge by Mrs. PARVIN. We note the gift was accepted by the Trustees, with the comment that it was constantly used for reference by Brother PARVIN in carrying on his efficient work as Grand Secretary. We are pleased to4earn that there is to be published a memorial catalog to Brother PARVIN, from the date of the last issue in 1883. In the report of the Committee on Library, we take it that Brother HUNT will retain the present assistants in this department as indicated in the following: The Librarian has indicated his desire to retain the experienced assistance that has been a t his disposal since January of this year. The present budget allows for this. We recommend that the request of the Grand Librarian on this
198
CORRESPONDENCE—lo
WA.
February.
subject be granted. SpeciaUzed assistance is essential to the carrying out of the aims and ideals of the Library. Our highly valued institution can only reach the maximum efficiency when it has capable workers at its disposal as co-operators in the great task in this modem house of light. The Committee on Fraternal Dead refers in a very complimentary manner to their late Grand Secretary, Brother PARVIN, and we are pleased to quote the following: The Masonic Library, of which we are so justly proud, was foimded by his father. At the death of the father the mantle fell on the son. who has carried the work ably forward. Such men do not die. The dust returns to the earth, as it was, and the spirit returns to GOD who gave it. If the spirit that enjoys and suffers; fails and succeeds; struggles and rests; anticipates and accomplishes lives with GOD who gave it it little matters about the body. There is a place as yet imseen and in(''experienced where these great spirits are living. Brother PARVIN was not simply a member of a Masonic Lodge he was a true Mason. The finest of Masonry gripped liim and was reflected from his great soul in noble living. The passing of this honored and honorable brother made earth poorer and heaven richer. We are somewhat surprised at the signatures of the Grand Master and Grand Secretary at the close of the journal, being submitted with ', initials only. This is unusual and we scarcely believe is in good form when used in an official way in connection with a formal report. M.'.W.'. Brother Louis BLOCK again presents one of his excellent reviews of the Proceedings of other Jurisdictions. His "Foreword" is interesting throughout and we are almost tempted to quote it in full, .but in justice to other jurisdictions we must be satisfied with only a •.portion. Concerning " T h e Design of the Masonic Institution" he has the • following to say: ^ There is no man who does not now and then keenly realize how greatly he needs to know what those things really are with which he has most com,•• monly to do. Most of us arc too often inclined to be content with the outward seeming, •the mere surface of things. Or we may be satisfied to accept what some one "else tells us about a thing, and let it go at that. "We are all apt to take things . p r e t t y much for granted and to saunter along our easy way until some new experience strikes us wide awake to the fact that there is something beneath and beyond, that imtil then we had never known was there. =The Mason who has thought the least about the matter is the one who is "the readiest to tell you he knows all about what Masonry means, what it stands for, what it is really trying to do. '. If old SOCRATES should come back to earth and go poking around among us seeking light on the question " What Is Masonry? " he would surely and quickly •^ accumulate such a vast variety of answers as would drive him to some solitary ' corner in the effort to recover from his stupefaction and confusion of mind. There be far too many Masons who have either never penetrated to the heart and core of the matter or have long ago forgotten what they found at the '" journey's end. Then again all of us tend to get "rusty," not only in the ritual, but, what is far more to be regretted, in the great themes the ritual strives to teach. In fact there is no one of us, from the youngest Entered Apprentice in the Northeast corner of the lodge to the greybeard who bears the Great Lights in
1925-26.
CORRESPONDENCE—IOWA.
199.
funeral procession, who would not be greatly helped by taking his Masonry out, now and then, dusting it off, and taking a good square look at it in the eflort to learn what it really is. Now there may be many places to which one might go for his answer to the question " W h a t Is Masonry?" but it would seem that the obvious place to go would be to the institution itself. It has its own clear-cut, positive, outspoken answer to this question, an answer as ancient as the institution itself. Listen:— "The design of the Masonic Institution is to make its votaries wiser and better and consequently happier." You've heard that before? Of course, over and over again. But just what does it mean"! Now, before we go on to try to answer this question let us recall to mind a certain curious fact about Masonry, and that is that it deals with the propounding of truths of a nature so peculiar as to permit of their being promulgated only in a certain singular way. The principles of Masonry are Uving, breathing things, and cannot be presented with the cold, hard precision of mathematical propositions. Masonry scarce ever comes directly at a subject. She travels toward her goal by indirection, suggests by symbol, and propounds by parable. The teachings of Masonry are of such a nature that they can properly be presented only by what WHITTIBK SO eloquently calls: " T h e picture writing of the world's grey seers. The myths and parables of primal years."
In referring to an incident which occured in one of their lodges when the Grand Master was making an official visit, we quote the following: Here is what actually happened not long since in a certain lodge not a thousand miles from here.. The Grand Master was paying the lodge an official visit. He had been duly received and welcomed, conducted to the East, and seated beside a leading Past Master of the lodge. He returned the gavel to the Master of the lodge and the work proceeded. "Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth—" Said the G.-.M.-. in an undertone to the P.-.M.-.: "Linten to this, for I want to ask you some ^ucsMons." "All right." * * * " in the day when the keepers of the house shall tremble and the strong men shall bow themselves—•" G.-. M.-. to P.-. M .-.: " What does that mean ?'' P.-.M.-. to G.-.M.-.: " I don't know." * * * "and those that look cut of the windows be darkened, and the doors shall be shut in the streets, when the sound of the grinding is low—" G.-.M.-. to P.-.M.-.: " What does mat mean? " P.-.M.-. to G.-.M.-.: " I don't know." * * * "and the almond tree shall flourish, and the grasshopper shall be a burden, and desire shall fail." G.-.M.-. to P.-.M.-.: " W h a t does that mean?" P .-.M.-. to G .-.M.-. (irritably) " I don't know. I never did know! I haven't the slightest idea what any of it means!" Many, many times he had recited it—many more he had heard it recited. Yet to him it meant no more than does a Latin prayer to a worshipper who knows no tongue but English, no more than does the whirr of the Chinese prayer-wheel to the coolie who can't read. Now, the writer has concerned himself "with tilings Masonic from " t h e days of his youth" until now when for him Life's descending sun has begun to sink in the West. He has striven earnestly to realize the meaning of the immortal words of that solemn recitative and believes he has some small conception of their significance. Yet he knows full well that even he has fallen far short of exhausting their meaning and feels sure the day will never come for him when he can truly say that he has sucked their sweetness dry.
2,00
CORBESPOND^NCE—IpWA.
February,
Verily we need all of us to be Initiated again, this time not of words, but of ">Vater and the Spirit," in order that we may realize that Masonry is after all never a thing "terrestrial," noreven yet verbal, b u t ever more "celestial" and eternally spiritual. Near the close of a long and eventful Masonic life, after years of painstaking research and study, after many months of meditation. Brother ALBERT EiKE, of revered and sainted memory, put Into these carefully considered words his conclusion as to the meaning of Masonry:— "Masonry is a continuous advance by means of the instruction contained in a series of degrees, toward the Light, by the elevation of the celesti£d, the spiritual, and the divine, over the earthly, sensual, material and human in the nature of man." •yea, my brother, it is that, just that, and nothing less than that, that is " t h e design of the Masonic Institution," for only so can a man be made "wiser, better, and consequently, happier."
His review includes a very liberal allowance of space for our 1924 Proceedings, granting us almost five pages of his report. We take this opportunity of correcting Brother BLOCK in his statement that the report of the Grand Secretary shows that the Grand Lodge had ordered the constituent lodges to store their charters with the Grand Lodge and accept in their places photographic copies. , The Grand Lodge has never ORDERED lodges to surrender their charters, or rather return them to the Grand Lodge for safe keeping, but has RECOMMENDED that this be done as a matter of precaution against the loss of the original document either through carelessness, fire or water. It is gratifying t o report that a large number of our lodges have taken advantage of the suggestion. In a number of instances lodges have been destroyed by fire, but their charter, having been filed in the Grand Lodge fireproof building, was saved and to furnish a certified photographic copy was an easy matter. peferrring to the New Hampshire matter he had the following comment to offer: We agree with Brother WILSON that perhaps New Hampshire was lacking in a proper spirit of courtesy, but nevertheless It was Kansas who lost its temper to such an extent that it cut " t h e tie that binds." A hard answer never turneth away wrath.
This to the writer is conclusive, and as indicated in his report one year ago, that Brother BLOCK has never read all of the Kansas side of this controversy; otherwise, we are satisfied he would change his mind concerning Kansas losing its temper. Our Grand Masters, dealing with this subject, have gone a distance far beyond "the length of their cable tow" and in each instance have received a blow on both cheeks at the hands of the Grand Masters of New Hampshire. They have not been accorded even ordinary courteous treatment. THOMAS W . WELLINGTON, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Fort Madison. CHARLES C . HUNT, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Cedar Rapids. Louis BLOCK, P . - . G . - . M . - . , Correspondent, Davenport.
Next Annual, Des Moines, June 8, 1926.
1925-26.
CORRESPONDENCE—KENTUCKY.
•
201
IRELAND-1924. Lodges, 650; members, 50,000; net gain, . Dublin, December 27, 1924. The Deputy Grand Master first offers an apology for the absence of their Grand Master who was u n able to attend this Communication on account of absence from the country. He then refers to the death of a number of distinguished brethren,, paying proper respect to the memory of each. He then reports the resignation of their Grand Senior Warden,. LORD RATHDONNBLL. The vacancy was filled by the advancement of their Grand Junior Warden, Sir WILLIAM GOULDING.
Referring to their Bi-Centenary Celebration the Deputy Grand Master had the following to say: Next year; as you all know, the Grand Lodge of Ireland celebrates its bicentenary. I t is a very proud thing to think of, that this our Grand Lodge has lasted undisturbed and unshaken for so long a period as two full centuries. I t Is a claim which no other Grand Lodge in the world, not even the Grand Lodge of the mother of Masonry across the Channel can sustain, because in Ireland, with the exception of a trivial difference of opinion between a few lodges and those in authority which only lasted for a short time, just about one hundreii years ago, we have remained an absolutely united Grand Lodge (applause). Long may we continue to do so, and from what I have seen in the past two years: I think 1 may say that the spirit of imity in Masonry over the whole of Ireland! was never stronger, if as strong, as it is today (hear, hear).
He reports having extended the office of Past Senior Grand Warden of Ireland to His Royal Highness, the PRINCE OP WALES.
This in
commemoration of their Bi-Centenary. During the year seventeen new lodges were organized. The Rt. Hon. The EARL OP DONNOUGHMORE, K . P., M.-. W.-.
Grand Master. HENRY C . SHELLARD, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Dublin.
KENTUCKY-1924. Lodges, 613; members, 72,603; net gain, 1,577. Louisville, October 21, 1924.
ALPHEUS E . ORTON, M.-. W . - .
Grand Master. The Grand Master, among other things, had the following to say in submitting his annual address: To you, my brethren, who have labored year after year in this Grand Lodge, and by your earnest efforts erected this wonderful edifice, may I express the hope that this Communication may be a means of adding another link in that chain that binds us in the service of humanity; and may I ask for your wise counsel and guidance, that our work may be carried on with only one thought in mind, as to who best can work and best agree.
202
CORRESPONDENCE—KEN'TUCKY.
February,
The Grand Master required one of the members to erase from his automobile a Masonic emblem. In another instance a brother had been tried, convicted and was serving a ten year sentence in prison, yet the lodge found him " n o t guilty" but stated that he had been suspended for non-payment of dues. The Grand Lodge has what is termed a "Million Dollar Committee," who are endeavoring to raise that amount for the construction of a new Masonic Home building. The report on this subject indicates that progress has been made and that the matter is well in hand. We also note that one of their members. Brother ROBERT A. TYLER, left practically his entire estate amounting to approximately $400,000.00 to the Masonic Widows' and Orphans' Home, which amount will be placed in their Endowment Fund. The writer wishes this would come to the attention of every Mason in our own jurisdiction. The Home is now housing 201 girls and 226 boys. The committee, however, states that the buildings are full and over-flowing, children are on the waiting list and applications still coming in. There are thirty-six widows who fill the building provided for them and others are waiting for admission. The Grand Master decided that a dimit constituted a waiver of jurisdiction. The Committee on Jurisprudence, however, did not agree with him and held that under their law a dimit did not constitute a waiver, and a brother, therefore, petitioning for membership -on dimit must apply to the lodge in whose jurisdiction he resides. This is an unusual statute and we believe if our Kentucky brethren will look into the question of the rights of Master Masons they will find that a law of this kind is in opposition to the privileges acquired iby one when he is Raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. The Report on Correspondence is again presented by M.\ W.\ Brother WILLIAM W . CLARKE, and includes a brief review of our 1924 Proceedings. H. M. GRUNDY, M.-.W.-.Grand Master, Springfield. FRED W . HARDWICK, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Louisville. WILLIAM W . CLARKE, P . - . G . \ M . \ , Correspondent, Owensboro.
Next Annual, Louisville, October 20, 1925.
1925-26.
COBBESPONDENCE—LOUISIANA.
203
LOUISIANA —1925. Lodges, 268; members, 34,497; net gain, 1,283. New Orleans, February 2, 1925. PRENTISS B . CARTER, M.-. W . \
Grand Master. Our
Grand
Representative,
R.-.W.". HENRY
S . WESTON, was
present. We take pleasure in quoting the following from the preface to the address of the Grand Master: We meet here as the chosen representatives of the tiilrty-flve thousand Free and Accepted Masons in the State of Louisiana. I n all of our deliberations, in everything that we do at this session, we should keep an eye single to the good of the Craft, the benefit of Mankind, and the Glory of GOD. Time has worked many changes and the duties of a Mason today are far more serious and important than, perliaps ever before. We are the sub-structure upon which rests the weight and responsibility for. the perpetuity not only of the Masonic Fraternity, but of the universal doctrine of freedom of speech, freedom of thought, and freedom of religious worship. In this great American Republic of ours, there are many insidious foes working to undermine and to overthrow the grand structure which our fathers bullded and cemented with their blood. I t is our duty both to GOD and to Man, to see that the efforts of these enemies of universal freedom are not successful in their efforts.
The Grand Master varies a little in the usual custom in the matter of reporting official visitations as under this head it appears that he. made an official visit to the Grand Lodge of Mississippi, the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, and last to a ceremonial of the Shrine. He assumed rather a unique position in the matter of ordering all lodges where trials were held, to send in a transcript of the trials, to be laid before the Committee on Appeals and Grievances, regardless of whether an appeal was taken or not. This may not be in accordance with their laws; however, we consider it a mighty good practice. Like many others he consumes considerable space in reporting a list of cases where special dispensations were refused. We consider this portion of a Grand Master's address absolutely useless. He breaks the record in the matter of rulings, as we note that he made fifty-six during his administration. Just as a note of warning to our own members, fearing like conditions may arise in our own jurisdiction, we quote the following from a communication addressed to the lodges by the Grand Master: I t has come to my notice that the Tuberculosis Hospital Association of Masons, with headquarters at Alexandria, Louisiana, represented by Dr. OLIVER J. MILLER, Medical Director, is writing letters to the lodges of the State, advising of the calling of an agent who is to visit them; presumably for the purpose of procuring subscriptions or donations from the lodges; the Grand Lodge has never sanctioned any such proceedings, or authorized the writing of letters to the Constituent Lodges, and no institution has the right to circularize the lodges except upon permission and authorization of the Grand Lodge.
204
CORRESPONDENCE—LOUISIANA.
February,
Here is something excellent, under the head of "Recommendations," and we quote it for the benefit and advice of our own lodges: I find that a great many lodges have fixed their dues so low that they have nothing left after paying their Grand Lodge dues and their per capita tax to the Orphanage, with which to care for their own alnicted and dependent ones. They are constantly calling on the Grand Master for relief which they should be in a position to render themselves. I am of the opinion that if a man's Masonry Is not worth fifty cents per month to him, that ho should not remain a member of the Order, because he is getting nothing out of it, and giving nothing to it, and is a liability rather than an asset to his lodge. The Grand Master was of the opinion that the English language only should be used in their lodges, notwithstanding the fact that in 1854 an agreement was entered into between the Grand Lodge and certain foreign speaking lodges in the city of New Orleans permitting them to Work in the Scottish Rite and use foreign, language, as set forth in said Concordant, they being required, however, to conform to the signs, words, obligations and modes of recognition of the York Rite Grand Lodge. This subject has been referred to a special committee in t h e hope t h a t a satisfactory adjustment may be made with the lodges speaking other than the English language. They were honored at this Communication with the presence of M.-. W.-. J. S. MACEWING and R.-. W.'. Brother JAMES A. OVAS, Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Manitoba. Grand Master M A C EWING delivered an excellent address from which we take pleasure in quoting the following: The first charter ever Issued for a Grand Lodge to meet upon Canadian soil was issued from the city of Boston, in what is now your State of Massachusetts, to what was tlie government of Nova Scotia in about 1740. In 1760 there arrived on the site of what is now our city of Montreal, the 227th regiment of British Infantry, bringing with them a charter from the Grand Lodge of Ireland, for a lodge known as the Lodge of Social and Military Freedom. This lodge, being a military lodge, accompanied the regiment, and for quite a wliile it was stationed in your United States. MACKTE. your famous writer. Masonic writer, states that it was this lodge which conferred the Mark Master degree upon General GEORGE WASHINGTON. Lodges in those days often conferred what are sometimes called an outside degree, and. with such a noted writer as authority, supported by tradition, the evidence held by this regiment and the lodge, it is b u t proper that we accept the statement as being true. We do know that, at one time during the Kevolutionary War, the chest belonging to this lodge was captured by the United States forces, but was returned to the regiment by GEORGE "WASHINGTON under a flag of truce. From the remarks of Brother OvAS we quote the following: Not far from the center of the American Continent, about midway between the Atlantic and the Pacific oceans, about midway between the Gulf and the Arctic Circle, snow clad in winter, but sweet in summer, beautiful in her sun, stands Winnipeg, the city of the plains, the gateway of our Northwest, the capital of our Province of Manitoba, and the seat of the Grand Lodge of which we have the honor to represent here this afternoon. Nowhere, brethren, is the handclasp stronger, and nowhere does the smile last longer, and nowhere does the sun shine brighter, and nowhere does the snow fall whiter, and so, Most
1925-26.
•
CORRESPONDENCE—LOUISIANA.
205
Worshipful Grand Master and brethren, from my city of the plains I bring you greetings and well wishes, and I join \\ith my. Most Worshipful Grand Master in my deep appreciation of the cordiality and reception you have accorded us this afternoon. We are pleased to quote from the oration of Brother Rev. ROBERT H. HARPER, Grand Chaplain, the following: Now sec how the vein of gold runs through all the earth—see how the radiant glint of light ever leads the Mason on. In the first degree, see how the morn, in "russet mantle clad," walks lightly "o'er the dew of yon high eastward hills." For thus truly is it written in one of the monitors concerning the symbolism of the first degree: " T h e First, or Entered Apprentice degree of Masonry is intended, symbolically, to represent the entrance of man into the world in which he is afterwards to becorhe a living and thinking actor. Coming from the ignorance and darkness of the outer world, his first craving is for light—not that physical light which springs from the great orb of day, but that moral and intellectual light which emanates from the primal Source of all things —from the Grand Architect of the Universe—the Creator of the sun and of all that it Illumines. Hence the great, the primary object of the first degree is to symi>olize the birth of intellectual light in the mind; and the Entered Apprentice is the type of unregenorate man, groping In moral and mental darkness, and seeking for the light which is to guide his steps, and point him to the path which leads to duty and to Him who gives to duty its reward." The second degree finds the candidate still seeking light and with the light which he has already received learning the use of the working tools and acquainting himself more fully with the designs by which he is to build his own temple of character. So we find the monitor saying concerning the Fellow Craft: "The Entered Apprentice is to emerge from darkness to light; the Fellow Craft is to come out of ignorance into knowledge. This degree, therefore, by fitting emblems, is intended to typify these struggles of the ardent mind for the attainment of truth—moral and intellectualtruth—and above all that divine truth, the comprehension of which surpasseth human understanding, and to which, standing in the ^Middle Chamber, after his laborious ascent of the winding stairs, he can only, approximate by the reception of an Imperfect, yet glorious reward in the revelation of tliat 'hieroglyphic light which none but craftsmen ever saw.' " The tliird degree finds the Mason attaining unto the full vision of the light, unto a full vision of all Iiigh- and noble things, and learning the greatest of all lessons—learning how to die. For in this degree the vail Is drawn aside and man is given a vision of eternif^y, as he becomes the chief actor in one of the greatest dramas the world ever knew and as he is lifted a t last into everlasting light and love. As the charmed light of eternity from another world falls fair and full upon his face, ho learns to prefer death to dishonor and to look the last enemy In the face unafraid. So it is not without significance that when we lay our brother away and the rough clods of the valley are cast upon his lifeless remains, though we exclaim, "Alas, my brother!" we clothe him with the badge of innocence and purity, we deposit a sprig of acacia, and we lay him with his still face toward the East from whence the light has ever come and from which we fancy it will break in splendor on the resurrection morn. And so because of this, because of the empty grave on the slope of Mount Moriah, our thought can wander tlirough eternity and beat itself into life and hope against the bars and barriers of time.
Our Louisiana brethren are •what we ordinarily term "long" on Masonic clubs and it seems that they really regret that there is not a Masonic club in every hamlet in their j'urisdiction. We are fearful that our Louisiana brethren will go to seed on this subject and eventu-
206
CORRESPONDENCE—MAINE.
February,
ally forget that there are Symbolic lodges in their state. As a fitting climax to the committee's report on this subject we quote the following: As a legal proposition, no social club has the right to use the name Masonic In connection with its title unless the same shall be authorized by the Grand Lodge. Their Grand Secretary, Brother JOHN A. DAVILLA, submits the usual Report on Correspondence, and in it he reviews our 1924 journal. Fraternal consideration is given to the more important matters before the Grand Lodge. HANEY B . CONNER, M.-.W.-.Grand Master, St. Joseph. JOHN A. DAVILLA, R . \ W . ' . Grand Secretary and Correspondent,
New Orleans. Next Annual, New Orleans, February 1, 1926.
MAINE—1925. Lodges, 206; members, 42,981; net gain, 425. Portland, May 5, 1925.
DAVID E . MOULTON, M.-.W.-. Grand
Master. It seems that their distinguished Craftsman, R.-. W.-. ARCHIE L E E TALBOT, and who is our Grand Representative near their Grand Lodge, was unable to attend this Communication on account of a broken leg. A telegram of greeting was sent him by order of the Grand Lodge. We sincerely hope he will overcome his affliction and again be restored to good health. Under the head of "Condition of the Fraternity" attention is called to the fact that the State of Maine has more Masons to the population than any other state in the Union, the percentage being 5.6. An excellent showing, and our brethren t)f that jurisdiction are to be congratulated. He further states, however, that twenty-five per cent of the present membership came into the Fraternity within the past five years. Under "Decisions," and simply as a matter of showing what an exalted idea some of our members have of the Fraternity; we quote the following: "Can a lodge allow a brother to use its hall for his marriage service?" 1 replied that the lodge should not allow the use of Its hall for such service; that Masonic hedls are dedicated to Masonic purposes and the marriage ceremony could hardly be construed as Masonic. Under " Chain Letters" he has the following to say: These perennial nuisances, like the letters in behalf of the "Fair Spanish Prisoner" refuse to die a natural and well merited death. Your Grand Master has been importuned to issue an edict against the chain letter, but the matter seemed too inconsequential to warrant that amount of attention.
1925-26.
CORRESPONDENCE—MAINE.
207
If every Mason who receives such letters will throw thein into the waste basket where they belong, these relics of ignorance and superstition will soon cease to annoy.
Their distinguished guest, M.-. W.-. Brother CHARLES H . CALLAHAN, Grand Master of Virginia, spoke in behalf of the George Washington Masonic National Memorial Association. Brother CALLAHAN was one of the early pioneers in this cause and we have no doubt his talk was very interesting. The Grand Lodge decided, by resolution, to withdraw from the Masonic Service Association. Our congenial friend and brother, CHARLES B . DAVIS, again presented one of his interesting reports. Among other things he reports progress on their card index. Brother ASHLEY A. SMITH presented the Report on Correspond-
ence, and as a preface he submits an interesting dissertation on "Youth and Masonry. Give the Youngsters a Chance!" Kansas for 1924 receives attention at his hands and we are under obligations for more than three pages of his excellent review. One year ago the writer, in referring to the action of their Grand Lodge relative to making Masons of those who had lost a portion of their limbs, had the following to say: We wonder what he (JOSIAH DRTJMMOND) would say today to his brethren of Maine who have provided by legislation, that it is proper to make Masons • of those who had lost a portion of their limbs and are supplied with artificial ones?
To this comment Brother SMITH takes up the question on the defensive and states that he thinks JOSIAH DRUMMOND would say, if alive, that * * * " t h e principle of the old operative guilds, was hardly progressive and consistent, with our speculative Masonry of modern days, which insists that 'it is the internal,' that is, the moral and spiritual values-of manhood and character, 'and not the external' qualifications that we are to weigh and scan and act accordingly." If JOSIAH DRTJMMOND were alive and would take this position it would be in direct opposition to his expressed convictions i;o the writer in the city of Washington in 1899, at which time the undersigned had the pleasure of a long visit with Brothers DRUMMOND and THEODORE SUTTON PARVIN of Iowa along these very lines.
Conditions
as they exist today were not only pictured at that time, but even as early as 1894^ at a little meeting in the office of the writer of this report, were forcasted by such brethren as S. STACKER WILLIAMS of Ohio, STATON of Kentucky, HEDGES of Montana, and others who were most prominent in Masonry at that time. Since the beginning of the World War sentiment has, in a very great measure, warped the better • judgment of many Grand Lodges and they have permitted innovations in customs which have existed for so long a time in the Fraternity that they have almost become Landmarks, much to the detriment of
208
CORRESPONDENCE—MANITOBA.
February.
the Institution. However, to the writer the shadow is now growing too long to take up matters of this kind for discussion, leaving these questions to the younger generation who must put on the armor and defend our time honored Institution which in a great many instances is being converted into merely a stepping-stone to so-called "higher degrees,"."Masonic organizations," "clubs," and the like. Brother SMITH'S report is high class throughout and we only wish that all of our brethren might have an opportunity of reading it from beginning to end. DAVID E . MOULTON, M.-.W.-.Grand Master, Portland. CHARLES B . DAVIS, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Portland. ASHLEY A. SMITH, Correspondent, Bangor.
Next Annual, Portland, May 4, 1926.
MANITOBA —1925. Lodges, 100; members, 11,400; net gain, 322. Winnipeg, June 10, 1925.
JAMES S . MACEWING, M.-.W.".Grand
Master. We find as a frontispiece an excellent likeness of their Grand Master, M.'. W.-. Brother ALBERT L . CROSSIN, and this is followed
with a copy of the program of their Golden Jubilee dinner, which celebration occured the day prior to the meeting of the Grand Lodge. Then follows an interior picture of the office of the Grand Secretary, with their worthy and faithful Grand Secretary, Brother JAMES A. OvAS, sitting at his desk. On tbe occasion of the celebration remarks were made by a number of members and visitors; however, the commemoration ceremony, which was the leading feature of this meeting, was delivered by M.". W.\ Brother SAMUEL P . MATHESON, Primate of Canada. Our Grand Representative, R.'. W.-. Brother JABEZ MILLER, was
in attendance at the Annual Communication. In the address of Grand Master MACEWING we find the following interesting words concerning their'Grand Lodge: Fifty years ago on tlie 12th of May, 1875, the Fast Masters, 'Worshipful Masters and "Wardens of the three Lodges, then meeting in the Province, met in convention and formed themselves into the Grand Lodge of Manitoba. The three original Lodges which thus formed our Grand Lodge were Prince Rupert's Lodge, Lisgar Lodge and Ancient Landmarlr Lodge, and the total membership in the Province at that time did not exceed two hvmdred members. From this small beginning Grand Lodge has grown until at the present time we have one hundred Constituent Lodges and approximately twelve thousand members. It was indeed a momentous occasion for Freemasonry in this Great West, and the brethren of those days must have been endowed with great faith and vision to accept the responsibility of forming a Grand Lodge in a territory which
1925-26.
CORRESPONDENCE—MANITOBA:
209
spread from the Great Lakes to the Rocky Mountains, but this vision and faith in the future of our country has been typical of the men connected with this Province from the days of the Selkirk Settlers down to the present time.
But one ruling was made during the year, which reads as follows: That no business shall be transacted and no degree or any part of a degree shall be conferred on a candidate in any room other than the regular Lodge room in which the Charter of the Lodge is continuously displayed.
Under the subject of "Lodge Notices" he had the following to say: Masters jointly with the Lodge Secretaries are largely responsible for their form and substance. They furnish a living link between the Lodge and its members, resident and otherwise. Many of our Lodges are to be commended on the efforts made to make these attractive, especially when you consider the various handicaps under which they labor. In other cases carelessness and a lack of proper pride result only in a bald document, neither interesting nor attractive. Good paper, clear type, historical data, such as date of Dispensation and issuance of Charter, names of principal Grand Lodge and all Lodge Officers, fitting reference to any specially interesting features of the immediate past meeting or the coming one for the benefit and encouragement of absent brethren and the information of those outside the length of their "cable-tow," might well be commended. At the same time a tendency to lower the dignity of such a notice by including items of a frivolous nature, "domestic" comments or flippant allusions should be carefully avoided. A good Lodge secretary is a "gem of purest ray serene," such are "born, not made." If you have a good one, hang on to him, and if a poor one, make a change. Some may be paid too much, many are paid too little. An' ideal secretary will neither feel that he is the whole Lodge nor attempt to run it his way, but will in all things pay deference to the Master for the time being and be a power for good in the Lodge.
Newspaper publicity is given attention, and we take pleasure in quoting his remarks on that subject: Within the past few years there are many signs wliich point to an increasing desire on the part of many Lodges to secure a cheap publicity by having inserted in newspapers lists of oiBcers elected or write-ups of social happenings. Individuals break into print with matter which had better be left unsaid. Freemasonry was never intended to be a popular institution in the common meaning of that word, but in response to the clamor of some brother, " What is Freemasonry doing? " we find publicity courted, not shunned, for fear our time-honored fraternity will not receive due credit or the public forget our existence. Constantly we hear the cry that this order and that order are doing something we never attempted, and that we must mend our ways and become up-to-date, or in otherwise-^advertise. Can we not in some way bring our brethren to realize that the purpose of Freemasonry is to teach the individual to do these things, and that being accomplished Masonry has attained its objective. Must we forsooth join in parades and publish om- doings in order to let the world know where we stand. Brethren, the world does know where we stand, and that almost every movement for the betterment of each community, no matter under what name organized, is headed and fostered by Masons. That In short is all the public need to know and all they should know. Every brother upon his initiation is supposed to have read to him that clause in our Lodge by-laws which forbids the imparting to the profane of any
210
CORRESPONDENCE—MANITOBA.
February,
information concerning what takes place in the Lodge, but it would appear as thovgh to many this article has become a dead letter. Legislation will not cure all our ills and no great harm has been done so far, but this is a liberty which may develop into license, and 1 would strongly urge that no information or matter for. newspaper publication touching Freemasonry or concerning our Lodge or Grand Lodge activities be given out by any member until the same has been approved by our Grand Master or Grand Secretary, - For the information of some of our own brethren who are constantly talking "Masonic Education," we take pleasure in quoting the following: Let us all read more, but let us read not only to increase our own knowledge, but especially that we may be able to instruct others. Do not absorb only, but also impart. Lodges and members frequently enquire as to where they shall secure interesting matter for Lodge discussions. To all such I would recommend the addresses of our Grand Masters and Grand Chaplains, also that reservoir of Masonic interest—Fraternal Correspondence. You may not approve—I may not agree with much that other Grand Lodges do, but reading the same will widen your outlook and broaden your vision, while you will also be daily increasing in Masonic knowledge. To Masters I would say; Memorize the "Work." read your Lodge bylaws, study the Constitution, not overlooking our Ceremonial, and then extend your horizon by dipping deeply into the rich treasure-house of our Grand Lodge library. Then you may become in deed and in word "Master," wliich means "Teacher." To the brethren generally I would also say "go thou and do likewise." From his conclusion we are pleased t o copy the following words: "Wearing the Compasses of your Grand Mastership (worn worthily I hope and with credit to this Grand Lodge), I have travelled approximately 14,000 miles, visiting in our own and Sister Jurisdictions. I t has been my endeavor to translate into actions my appreciation of the honor otir Grand Lodge saw fit to bestow upon me, and by giving as much of my time as I could to the fast Increasing duties and responsibilities pertaining to the oflBce to express my gratitude. So much that should be done and so little time to do it. In memoralizing their Golden Jubilee it was proposed at the last Annual Communication that all lodges subscribe to their Benevolent Fund. I t appears from the report that almost $45,000.00 was subscribed for this purpose. This speaks well for our Manitoba brethren. The Grand Secretary presents his usual excellent report and we note a co-incidence in his summing up of membership which is out of the ordinary. Their net increase brought their membership to an even" 11,400, and the increase of three lodges, places an even 100 lodges on their rolls. R.-. W.-. Brother Rev. WILLIAM A. CUNNINGHAM, Grand Chaplain, delivered what we consider a very scholarly address, and we regret t h a t space will not permit of quoting more than the following: Few realize tlie service of the science of numbers to the faith of men in the morning of the world. It was almost his first hint of law and order in life when he sought to find some kind of key to the mighty maze of things. Living in the midst of change and seeming chance, he found in the laws of numbers a path by
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which to escape the awful sense of life as a series of accidents in the hands of a capricious power. Surely it was not unnatural that a science whereby men obtained such glimpses of unity and order in the world should be sacred among them, imparting its form to their faith. Having revealed so much, numbers came to wear mystical meanings in a way quite alien to oiu- prosaic habit of thinking—faith in our day having betaken itself to other symbols. One of the first to follow this hint was PYTHAGORAS, of whom we know so little and would like to know so much. He was a lofty and noble figure, albeit half-hidden in myth, and only a few of his words have come down to us. He perceived in all the multiplicity of experience, to wlilch witness has been borne by HERACLITUS. a rhythmic march—a movement, but with disciplined step and the reasonable soul of music in It. One of his few sayings that remain, sums up his vision: " All things are in numbers, the world is a living Arithmetic in its development—a realized Geometry in its repose." If you take the snowflake and look at it under a glass, you will see what filled that ancient thinker with wonder. It is an exquisite example of the geometry of GOD—squares, circles, triangles, pentagons, hexagons, paralellograms, more exact and delicate than the deftest hand could trace. Throw a pebble into a still sheet of water, and immediately there arises an ever widening series of concentric circles. The mountains in their strength stand fast, forever held in their places by a parallelogram of forces, and the stars swing round their vast orbits as noiselessly as a dew-drop is poised on a flower. Such is the structure of the universe, and it is no wonder that PYTHAGORAS saw in these signs and designs, everywhere present, the thought-forms of the Eternal Mind; else they would not be the natural self-sought forms of matter. Nature is a realm of numbers, and the frolic architecture of a snowflako is a lesson in geometry. Music moves with measured step, using geometrical figures, and cannot free itself from numbers without dying away into discord. From PYTHAGORAS this insight passed to PLATO, whose opulent genius gave eloquent exposition to the Doctrine of Numbers. When asked by a pupil what GOD does, he replied, " G O D geometrizes continually," and he was often wont to say that geometry, rightfully understood, is the knowledge of the Eternal. Over the porch of his Academy at Athens he inscribed the words, "Let no one who is ignorant of Geometry enter my doors," meaning that Us . teaching rested upon the science of numbers. What PLATO and PYTHAGORAS saw, modem science confirms. HENRI FABRE said, "Geometry, that is to say, the science of harmony in space, presides over everything. We find it in the arrangement of a fir-cone, as in the arrangement of an Epelra's living web; we find it in the spiral of a snail shell, in the chaplet of a spider's thread, and in the orbit of a planet; it is everywhere as perfect in the world of atoms as in the world of immensities. And this universal geometry tells us of a Universal Geometrician, whose divine compass has measured all things. Brother J. C. WALKER RBID, Grand Senior Warden, prepared the
usual Report on Correspondence, including a review of our 1925 Proceedings. ALBERT L . CROSSIN, M.-.W.-.Grand Master, Winnipeg. JAMES A. OVAS, R.-.W.-.Grand Secretary, Winnipeg. JAMES S . MACEWING, P . - . G . ' . M . ' . , Correspondent, Treherne.
Next Annual, Winnipeg, June 9, 1926.
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CORRESPONDENCE—MARYLAND.
February,
MARYLAND —1924. Lodges, 118; members, 31,297; net'gain, 808. Semi-Annual Communication held at Baltimore, May 13, 1924. WARREN S. SEIPP, M.-.W.-.Grand Master.
The Grand Lodge was opened according to their usual custom, by the Deputy Grand Master, after which the Grand Master was received, being accompanied by the Grand Marshal, Grand Pursuivant and Grand Director of Ceremonies. This part of the opening was augmented by music. At this Communication they received as an honored guest Brother Sir ALFRED ROBBINS, Past Junior Grand Warden of the United Grand
Lodge of England. A cordial welcome was extended to this distinguished brother and in due course of time he was made an honorary Grand Senior Warden of the Grand Lodge of Maryland, and presented with the jewel of his office. The Grand Lodge of Maryland proposes to build a Masonic Home, and to meet the necessary expense they have secured the services of a brother who proposes to raise the amount needed and thereby relieve the membership of any special tax for this purpose. We will look forward with interest to the outcome of this proposition. The Annual Communication was held in Baltimore on November 18, 1924, and we note the absence of our Grand Representative. The Grand Master in submitting his address first refers to the death of their Grand Lecturer, Brother CHARLES H . BURNS, who passed
away during the year. M.'. W.'. Brother SEIPP has the happy faculty of saying a great deal
in a few words, multum in pareo, and in expressing a matter of interest to the Craft he does so in a very few words as indicated by the following taken from his address: Brethren, peace and concord should prevail at all times. When the true spirit of Masonry guides, no other incentive is necessary to the membership to attend lodge, and to the offlcers to put forth their best efforts to instruct, enlighten and encourage the brethren. A well posted Master is never confronted with the problem of empty benches, and 1 honestly believe that it is worth the time of any man to make what some call a sacrifice but what I esteem a privilege • to "go through the chairs." This is not the place to enlarge upon this subject, but any line officer should not handicap his lodge by clogging the machinery. Masters should be particularly careful to see that no member goes unscathed who violates the civil or moral law, nor who transgresses the laws of honor and manhood. Remember the dignity and high ideals of our fraternity. Be more concerned with teaching the brethren rather than raising a large number of candidates. Look well to the outer door, and do not overlook the fact that it should swing outward as well as inward, and should our good name be traduced, do not forget t h a t the honor and good name of Masonry is in your keeping.
From the Grand Lecturer's report we quote the following which will be of interest to our members: A total number of 179 Lodges of Instruction were held throughout the State and at convenient times and were available to all County Lodges. The schools
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were held at regular Intervals'so that every lodge, if it so desired, could attend. Approximately 1500 ofllcers and members of the different lodges availed themselves of these meetings and as a result thereof a decided improvement has manifested itself in the ritualistic work, as well as in conducting routine lodge business. Brother HENRY BRANCH submitted an interesting Report on
Correspondence, including a review of our 1924 Proceedings. He calls attention to the absence of their Grand Representative, W.'. Brother MOSES H . COLE, and in explanation the writer will say that Brother COLE'S absence was due to death in his family, and it is the first Communication of the Grand Lodge he has missed for many years. He is one of our most faithful members. WARREN S. SEIPP, M.-.W.-.Grand Master, Baltimore. GEORGE COOK, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Baltimore. HENRY BRANCH, Correspondent, Leesburgh, Virginia.
Next Annual, Baltimore, November 17, 1925.
MASSACHUSETTS —1924. Lodges, 312; members, 120,119; net gain, 4,534. Quarterly Communication held in Boston, March 12, 1924. DUDLEY H. FERRELL, M.-.W.'. Grand Master.
^ We find as a frontispiece to this volume an excellent steel engraving of their late Past Grand Master, M.'. W.'. Brother EVERETT C . BENTON, who was called from labor to eternal refreshment February 4, 1924. I t was the pleasure of the writer to have had the personal acquaintance of Brother BENTON for many years and we fully realize how he will be missed from the councils in that jurisdiction. He was indeed a "war horse" in Masonry, congenial, always thoughtful of others and what we ordinarily term a "hale fellow well met." His remains were laid to rest on February 7th by the Grand Lodge, and from the long list of distinguished Craftsmen present we take it that the brethren of Massachusetts loved and respected this great man and Mason. At the Quarterly Communication they were honored with the presence of the Grand Masters of Connecticut and Vermont, as well as a distinguished visitor in the person of R.\ W.\ Sir ALFRED ROBBINS,
President of the Board of General Purposes of the United Grand Lodge of England. We take pleasure in quoting the following few words from the preface to the address of the Grand Master: The real revelation of Masonry has never been in the abstractions of its philosophy, but in the character of those who have drunlc deep of its wisdom and culture, and bravely championed its purposes. Among this splendid company, memory today counts that Brother who, though dead, shall live with us in the inspiration of never to be forgotten service.
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February,
Under the subject of "Character of Masonry" his words are so thoroughly in keeping with the true spirit of the Craft that we feel justified in quoting the following: As Masons we are in duty bound not only to acquaint' ourselves with the character of our institution, but to use all skill and every ability to proserve that character. In this day of the world, when the multiplication of Ufe'a relationships seems to forecast possibility of an overwhelming perplexity, we are driven to a self-examination that proves or disproves the legitimacy of our claim to a place among the determining forces of society. As we have said to you before. Masonry cannot avoid this necessity for self-examination, and we believe that each of us Is concerned as never before in order that the ancient integrity of our institution shall bo preserved and that the traditional character of our association shall be a reality as well as a public profession. Thus we are anxiously laboring to prove to ourselves the authenticity of our idealism. We are continually seeking reassurance that the heart of Masonry is soimd; that its character Is as substantial today as in the old days when the highways for institutional enterprise were not so numerous, and the guideposts were not so confusing and seemingly contradictory in directions given. This is a task belonging to each Mason and for his own sake as well as the sake of the Craft should not be ignored. But this is not all. The duty that devolves upon us in the care for our character, mighty as the obligation may be, does not represent the completeness of our responsibility. We must be concerned not only for the character of Freemasonry but also for its reputation. We must not forget that Freemasonry is a public institution and at all times is open to examination by society. What value is there in our knowing that the heart of Masonry is sound if the public does not know it. Sometimes the pubUc has grave doubts and rightly so. We base our judgment of the institution upon an intimate knowledge of Its philosophy, an understanding of its principles and purposes, and while we often see evidences of labor that could hardly obtain the approbation of the Master we discoimt the value of this in comparison with the unchanging wish of Masonry itself. Lacking the intimacy of our companionship with the heart-throbbing ambitions and aspirations of the Fraternity, society a t large can judge us only by the things we do and the practices we seem to favor; and by some strange legerdemain in communication, what is done in a Lodge that is seemingly or actually inconsistent with the dignity of our profession becomes public property and a topic of critical conversation, as easily and quickly as similar practices which, without shame are forced upon public attention. Certain phases of our practice which lead to this mistaken judgment of our Fraternity we bring to your attention today. As you listen, do not assume that the circumstances about to be related are common among the Brethren. We are glad to say that the condition is rare, but the fact that it exists at all gives us a hint of danger and compels us to the precaution of studied attention lest it increase.
The writer does not intend to reprint the entire address, but in view of conditions generally we feel certain that his remarks under the subject of "Entertainments" will be interesting to our readers and we therefore quote the following: The other matter that not only involves our reputation but affects the very essentials of our character as an institution has two phases almost equally Important, but which we may with profit consider separately. The lighter hours of our association as Brethren when feasting and fun are the items on the program are as essential and helpful as the more serious times when together we labor for a deeper understanding of the ideals and purposes of our profession. Let us see to It that nothing is introduced into these hours of refreshment that will dissipate their benefit. Again, it is not a common
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practice (but its occurrence even once would be once too often), but it sometimes happens that after or before the Lodge assembles for the working of one of the degrees an entertainment is provided for the company assembled which supplements the hospitality provided in a bountiful dinner. Brethren, I give it you strictly in charge to see to it that this entertainment Is In no sense Inconsistent with the serious business that has gone before or Is to follow. Questionable jokes, songs of doubtful significance, are both a poor preparation for and valueless as a supplement of the reception or witnessing of a Masonic degreeNo one should be better fitted for enjoyment than a Mason and no one should know better than a Mason that real fun is clean. I t is the business of those who govern the Lodge to see to It that nothing distinguishes the hour of refreshment but what is fit company for the inspiration and aspiration of the Ideals and labors of our more serious endeavor. The other phase of Lodge practice to wUch we have already made indirect reference is the matter of addresses made before the Lodge either during the hour of refreshment or wltUn doors that are tiled. It is practically a universed custom to select a speaker, invite him to come, and leave the selection of topic and the formulation of subject matter entirely to him. As a general rule this may be a safe procedtu'e, but there are enough exceptions to the rule to warrant us in' discarding tbis practice. I am more than ever confirmed in the opinion that Section 338 of the Grand Constitutions which forbids any Lodge from encouraging, promoting or permitting the delivery of any Masonic lectures which have not been authorized by the Grand Lodge is interpreted in too Umited a fashion. In these days when Masonry's operative genius amid the formation and application of Ufe's essential principles is being given equal rank with the speculative conferments of which we have long been cognizant, any lecture that seeks to define this operation, tMs practical application, must of neces.sity be considered Masonic even though it smacks not of ritual and confines itself to the affairs of common social intercoiirse and procedure. And how easy it is for those who have not learned restraint, whose Masonic education has not yet brought them an understanding of the fact that our idealism permits no association with bigotry or prejudice—how easy, I say, is it for such to laimch' forth into a passionate negation of something that is none of our business as a Fraternity, giving the impression that we are here to destroy the material, the stuff that time will care for, when our only task is to build that spiritual' structiu'e within which there is shelter for the noble hopes, the unselfish practices, the virtues and the faith of the world. I t would be well if the Masters of our Lodges developed the practice of acquainting themselves with the subject matter to be presented by lecturers whom they invite; many a false impression upon new members would not then be made, the real piu'pose of our association would not be clouded; it would be impossible for any poUtical, sectarian, or religious dogma to Invade those portals within wMch they could never, in very nature of the case, be anything but stranger.
And now harken, ye sons of the thirty or more societies or organizations who have presumed to float around the country under the banner of Masonry, to what our brethren in Massachusetts have done in this regard.
Under the guiding hand of M.'. W.'. Brother PRINCE,
the Grand Lodge sustained him in a recommendation that all so-called Masonic clubs in their jurisdiction should drop the name "Masonic." We are pleased to note that the orders of the Grand Lodge have been obeyed. The next Quarterly Communication was held on the 11th day of June, 1924. Dealing with the influence of the Craft on the public the Grand Master has the following few words to say:
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COBBESPONDENCE—MASSACHUSETTS.
February,
An Institution such as ours with a record of continued existence for almost two hundred years natiu'ally attracts the attention of the public and intangibly exerts an Influence in the determination of public ideals. When to this powei-, resident in such historic integrity, you find added a present virility, an undoubted and compeUing vitality, then you have a measure of influence upon the associations of men of such profound character that' not only are w e impelled to proud reflections upon our honorable position, but we are compelled to a serious analysis of the responsibility and duty which in consequence rest upon
Concerning the "Grand Constitutions" we quote the following: When a Master is presented with the Grand Constitutions he receives what every other Master receives and the admonition given liim is not for his particular case alone. The advice should be heeded. From tliis time on, it is the intention of your Grand Master to have each District Deputy Grand Master confer with every Master-elect in his District, go over with him the various provisions of the Constitutions and Regulations affecting the practice of the Lodge, its rights and privileges, and the duty and prerogatives of the Master therein. In this fashion the presiding officer and the Lodge will each be saved from possible embarrassment consequent upon the employment of improper procedure.
An interesting subject under the head of "A Momentous Decision" was made a part of his address and the following will no doubt be interesting to our readers: The history of organizations shows one of two things. Either they accommodate themselves to whatever changes come, they expand their effort to meet an increased duty or else they lapse into the oblivion which adherence to an unchanged and antiquated conventionality always brings. Now, for Freemasonry the experience similar to that possible for any other institution, awaits. We can, today, say that we want no change in oiu- effort; that we will be satisfied within the compass of our present measure of endeavor. But will the time be satisfied? We owe life something and we cannot deny it. I dream rather of Masonry making the other decision, a decision to try the adventure of greater service because the need of the time is more pressing. I vision a tomorrow that shares a Masonic understanding possessed by every man who bears the Masonic title. This will be the result of the education given liim, superimposed upon ritualistic instruction. I see the Fraternity equipped to care for those who are not asking alms, but only a chance to provide for their own wants. My thoughts lead me into a tomorrow whose glory is our ability to care fully for all whose hands have grown palsied with age or sickness and who, amid the competitions of life, have no refuge except within the fortress of real Masonic benevolence. The dream wiU come true if you Brethren say it shall. The hope of your Grand Master and those associated with him in administering the affairs of the Craft has been amply explained throughout the jimsdiction. He was asking nothing for himself but all for Freemasonry. His hope for tomorrow, his dream of Masonry's greater service with all that it demanded of the Brethren he dared to place in your hands because he had faith in the reality of your Masonic profession.
The next Quarterly was held September 10, 1924. At this Communication they were honored with the presence of M.'.W.'. EDWARD W. COOCH, Grand Master of Masons in Delaware. (We trust the printer will not mistake the first letter of his surname and get it mixed with the " H " box.)
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The Grand Master, among other things, has the following to say in the preface to his address: May I remind Masters and Wardens that the ritualistic work to whlcb they will necessarily devote much of their time is not a production for the entertainment of those who have already received the degrees. It is. an offering that is made to the candidate. Make it with all the sincerity of which you are capable, all the enthusiasm which a real belief in the principles enunciated should create. It is all new to the candidate. And for him who has heard then words again and again—for him cilso—it has a new and deeper meaning, a stronger appeal, a fresh interest when the manner of its presentation represents; an eager and vital conviction. Let us not overlook the dignity which the routine and monotonous always possesses. The same thing, done in the same way is never wearisome unless we become the victims of indifference. ^• About Masonry there is something ever fresh, ever vital. I always think of it as forever youthful, ready to dare the greater things in order to enthrone truth and brotherhood in life. Therefore its appeal is ever new to its disciples; each offering of duty is attractive. So whatever the days ahead may bring for us to do, let us at least endeavor to measure up to the standards already set; and if perchance we are fortunate to go beyond them, well and good.
The so-called chain letters receives his attention and we are pleased to quote the following: In view of the revival of this persistent nuisance I am constrained againto order the Brethren to refuse it their encouragement. As far as I know thereIs no prayer so peculiar as to deserve the title Masonic, and if the prayer were sufficiently exclusive to set Masons apart for the special favor of the Deity,.it would deserve the title less. Further, the whole practice smacks of ignoranc'eand superstition and is extraordinarily out of place in this age of insight and. knowledge. . r
"Semi-Masonic Organizations" are also included in his address; as follows: Brethren, in the growth of American Masonry, there has developed and' stiU is developing a situation which causes the careful observer a definitemeasure of concern. There have come into being in Massachusetts as well ^s In every other jurisdiction a number of organizations which because of certain requirements of membership are related by the public mind to the name Masonic. These bodies have been aptly designated by an unbiased analyst as "semi-Masonic" or "pseudo-Masonic." To the existence of these Organizations per se we have no objections. I t is possible that our temperament as a people has encouraged these social constructions. It may be that the size to wlilch our individual Lodges have gro^vn has produced what is regarded as a legitimate reason for the establishment of these other groupings. Be that as it may, they are here regardless of the presence or absence of any necessity as a basis for their existence. What concerns me is not that they are, but rather the measure of value which the Masons who are members thereof place upon them, i n other words, if there is enjoyment or profit in such associations it is perfectly legitimate" for the members of our Craft to appropriate the same if they wish. But it must never be forgotten that in the scale of values such groupings have a particular place nor can they usurp the places held by other groupings. I t becomes a matter of concern to the administrators of the Craft when it is observed that Masons, as they sometimes do, substitute in the seat of sovereign Interest a pseudo-Masonic body for one that is recognized as purely Masonic. Nothing, Brethren,, can usurp either the prerogatives or the conferments of the Masonic institution, and since the latter is essential to membership in the
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CORRESPONDENCE—MEXICO.
February,
.other organizations referred to, it becomes and should forever remain the object of primary Interest. As time goes on I trust that the criticisms of Master Masons, namely, that they care nothing for the Lodge and have no time for its labors because of their absorption in semi-Masonic organizations, will lose its validity. Wo must continually remind ourselves that faithfulness to the duty imposed upon us by our membership in a Lodge is the first matter of our concern, and a careful regard for what we owe Masonry is paramount when compared with the invitations which other interests present to us. In short, if it is within your power, do not allow the Brethren to neglect the Lodge in order to further other organizations, membership in which is dependent upon their Masonic afflliation. The next Quarterly was held December 10, 1924, and at this Communication the Grand Master submitted a brief address concerning only local matters dealing with their own jurisdiction. DUDLEY HAYES FERRELL, M.-.W.-.Grand Master, Lynn. FREDERICK W . HAMILTON, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Masonic Temple, Boston.
MEXICO —1924. Lodges, 15; members, 938; net gain, 21. City of Mexico, March 17, 1925. ERNEST P H . HERIVEL, M.-.W.'. Grand Master. R.-.W.-. Brother J. I. NEWELL, our Grand Representative, was present. (Initials not ours.) Under "Conditions in this Jurisdiction" the Grand Master has t h e following to say: Masonry within our Jurisdiction has progressed tranauiUy and favourably since our last Annual Conummlcation. Eeturns from subordinate lodges show an increase in membership, and reports which have reached me from the District Deputy Grand Masters indicate a healthy and vigorous condition in the greater part of our lodges. It is not, however, only by the size of our membership t h a t our condition Is to be judged, but by the spirit of wllUngness and deterTuination to cairy on our great work to the limit of our capacities; and 1 think I can say that this spirit is being manifested in our lodges today to a greater •extent than ever before, and on the whole, conditions are such as to give every reason for elation. Peace and Harmony have prevailed amongst the lodges and the brethren, and nothing has occured ivithin our lodges to interrupt the steady, forward march of York Rite Masonry. As a matter of Information to our readers we quote the following in regard to the so-called Grand Lodge of the Pacific: The Grand Lodge of the Pacific was formed by lodges under charter of -Valle de Mexico In the States of Sonora, Sinaloa and Lower California, and it has been making great efforts to obtain recognition from American Grand Lodges. No action was taken on Its request for recognition a t the last annual communication of the Grand Lodge of California, but the matter will be brought up for comment and recommendation at the next communication, and I may say that various members of the Grand Lodge of California are Inclined to
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favoiu- Its recognition. I have been unofiacially informed that a t the last annual communication of the Grand Lodge of Arizona recognition was extended to this Grand Lodge of the Pacific. F r o m a n historical point of view concerning M a s o n r y in Mexico we s u b m i t t h e following from t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s a d d r e s s : With respect to Valle de Mexico. I was asl£ed some time ago if I had any objections to meeting unofBcially a member of City of Mexico Lodge No. 35, to talk over the present situation between the two Grand Lodges, with the hope of arriving a t some basis for oflcial negotiations. I replied that I was quite willing to hold such conversations, but as the gentleman requesting these interviews could not get away from Mexico City, I offered to have him meet some of oxu" members in this City. Upon his assenting, I aslied Brothers ARNOLD, CuMMiNGS and JAMBS to interview him,—-with the understanding that such conversations were absolutely unofficial,—-and they most willingly undertook the task. I t appears that the only object was to endeavor to pave the way for recognition of Valle de Mexico by this Grand Lodge, without oBterlng to make any concessions, and with the intention of still keeping among their members men who had been suspended or expelled by the York Grand Lodge of Mexico. As no basis could be arrived at which could lead to further and official negotiations, the matter has been dropped. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r proposed t h a t a limit b e placed o n t h e t i m e a newly m a d e M a s o n could petition for t h e so-called higher degrees. T h e G r a n d Lodge, however, t h r o u g h its proper committee, were of a different opinion, a n d therefore nothing w a s done. T h e R e p o r t on Correspondence contains a review of o u r 1 9 2 2 , Proceedings. W e a r e somewhat a t a loss t o u n d e r s t a n d w h y a later edition w a s n o t reviewed as our 1923 Proceedings were mailed o u t in M a r c h , 1923. M A K C U S A . L O E V Y , M . - . W . ' . G r a n d M a s t e r , Mexico C i t y . C H A R L E S I . ARNOLD, R . - . W . - . G r a n d Secretary, Mexico City.
Next Annual, Tampico.
( N o d a t e given.)
MICHIGAN —1925. Lodges, 4 8 5 ; m e m b e r s , 143,317; n e t gain, 4,343. Grand Rapids, M a y 26,1925. B E N J. HENDERSON, M.-.W.'.Grand Master. After t h e b r e t h r e n h a d assembled in t h e a u d i t o r i u m of t h e Masonic T e m p l e t h e y listened t o a brief b u t very interesting address of welcome b y P a s t M a s t e r F R E D L O C K E , city m a n a g e r of G r a n d R a p i d s , a n d we a r e pleased t o quote t h e following from h i s t a l k : I feel that this is one of the big moments in my life; big because I am one of^that Brotherhood which owes its allegiance t o this Grand Lodge; big because I am privileged and honored in the duty of welcoming you to this city, to its people, and to Its communal life. Yoiu: visit here will be a big event in the life of the city, of its citizens, and of its Masons, because of the great fundamental princlpleswhlch we hold in common, principles that we must understand and
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which we must apply regardless of our positions in life, our social or our fraternal relationships. Masonry takes its lessons from the great builders. Its mission is to build. I t aims to build Manhood, Character and Good Citizensliip. I t is, therefore. Most Worshipful Sir, altogether fitting that you are gathered in this city, because, for the most part, we are builders here. We contribute most of our efforts t o the greatest of aU constructive work, the Home. We build the things that make for home betterment; make the home more durable, more beautiful. AVe build the things which make for the welfare of mankind, comfort and contentment. And in doing this we add. Worshipful Sir, to our own happiness and to oior net worth in the scale of human achievement.
From the response by the Grand Master we clip the following: Grand Eapids is noted as being one of the strongest Masonic cities in the Grand Jurisdiction of Micliigan. Your facilities for taking care of a function such as this are unsurpassed anywhere in Michigan. And I am sure that I speak for the unanimous membership of this Grand Lodge when I say that we are alwajs glad to get back to Grand Eapids, for it always seems hke getting back home (Great applause).
Their "war horse" R.-. W.-. Brother Lou B . WINSOR, called to the floor of the Grand Lodge M.-.W.-. Brother ROBERT P . ANDERSON, better known as " B O B " ANDERSON, and in a most befitting manner
presented him with a Past Grand Master's jewel to replace a corresponding decoration which had been stolen from his grip as he journeyed to Cahfornia.
In concluding his remarks. Brother WINSOR spcke as
follows: Now, BOB, for heaven's sake, be careful of tills Jewel, for I do not want to do this again (Laughter). There you are. B O B : That is just as good as the other one—and cost a lot more money (Laughter and applause).
In accordance with their time honored custom the Grand Secretary called their roll of honor, which consists of the names of their Past Grand Masters who had laid down the working tools of life. We note the list now consists of fifty-one names. Brother WILLIAM H . GALLAGHER, our Grand Representative, was
present. The Grand Secretary announced that all Past Grand Masters, with the exception of four, were present at this Communication. This is not only a remarkable occurrence but is an index to the interest shown by those brethren who have had conferred upon them the highest honor within the gift of the Craft. The Grand Lodge then directed the Grand Secretary to send a telegram to each of the four distinguished brethren who were unable to be present. An unusual incident occured during their deliberations in receiving as a distinguished visitor a brother who seemingly had never received any of the special honors in Freemasonry, but was just a brother. He is a member of Abitibi Lodge No. 540 of Ontario, Canada, and his name is J. 0 . MCKERROW.
This lodge is located 1,000 miles
north of Grand Rapids. Grand Master HENDERSON made a trip to
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that far off section of Canada and was accompanied by Brother MCKEREOW. We must be content with quoting the following few words from the talk made by this brother: I was given a task, some time ago, to secure a representative of a Grand Lodge in the United States to come over to Canada to speak to what we call "American Night." Knowing the many friends that I have in the State of Michigan, and having always felt that it was about the warmest state of the United States (applause). I felt that the proper one to come was the Grand Master of the State of Michigan. I put the idea up to some of my Masonic friends in your state, and I will say to you. Brethren, that I got kind of " soft-pedal stuB"—"Layoff." However, you have got to get something when you go after it, and when it came to the last moment, and I had no time to secure anyone else, I took the telephone and I called up Most Worshipful BrothM" HENDERSON. I said: "This is Brother MCKEREOW speaking, from North Bay, Canada." He says, " W h o ? " and "Where?" (Laughter), and I repeated it. "Where is t h a t ? " Then I told him where it was, and I said, " I do not want you to come here, but I want you to go 232 miles north of here" (Laughter). North Bay is 250 miles north of Toronto, and we wanted him to go to visit Abitibi Lodge No. 540 at Iroquois Falls, which is 232 miles north of North Bay. "Now, (I said), you may think that that is beyond Hudson's Bay, or beside the North Pole, but it isn't. If you will come up here we will show you that we have a real country." Then I promised Brother HENDEHEON that if he would come that I would meet him at Toronto, which I did. And I must say that when I went to Toronto to meet Brother HENDEEEON I met a real brother (applause). You of the fraternity in Michigan have a great deal to be proud of in having as your Grand Master, Bight Worshipful Brother HENDERSON. He came up there: he was received, and he was welcomed, and everybody in that country, and particularly Abitibi Lodge, is talking about him yet. I have to bo in Iroquois Falls on Saturday night of this coming week (that is 1,000 miles north of here), and the first greeting when I get off the train will be, "When have you seen Brother HENDERSON?" Everybody is still talking about him. The Grand Master submits a very brief preface to his address, from which we quote the following: . The past year has been a strenuous one for the Grand Master, but, on the whole, a very happy one: coming into contact and forming friendships with the members of the Craft in every section of the state, is full compensation for the time and energy spent. I have tried to make my administration one of constructive building, and, if it meets with the approval of the fraternity, I am well repaid. The few disagreeable tasks that fall to the lot of the Grand Master, have, in the past year been satisfactorily and happily adjusted, so that peace and harmony reign supreme throughou't the entire iurisdiction. The year has been one of steady and prosperous growth; our gain in membership satisfactory: the Angel of Death has passed by our Grand Lodge Family this year, but many of our Brethren have gone from their labors on earth to everlasting refreshment in the Paradise of GOD. Let us ever cherish their memories and be inspired thereby to great and noble deeds. Under the head of "Masonic Grand Council" he reports the formation of a Masonic Grand Council of Michigan, composed of the presiding officers of their Grand Lodge, Grand Chapter, Grand Council, Grand Commandery and Scottish Rite. We do not know the exact purposes for which it is organized but will watch for the outcome.
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CORRESPONDENCE—MICHIGAN.
February,
Under the head of "Good of the Order" we quote the following as it is along the same line of thought which the writer has presented to the Grand Lodge and lodges in this jurisdiction for almost a third of a century: I have visited lodges who had no safe or any place to keep their records but a wooden cupboard in a wooden building. If the records of the lodge at Fredericksburg, Virginia, had been so kept, we would not today have any authentic record of GEOBGE WASHINGTON'S entrance into Masonry. If the records of Alexandria Washington Lodge at Alexandria, Virginia, had been kept that way, we would have no record of GEORGE WASHINGTON having been the first Worshipful Master.
From the Grand Secretary's report we learn for the first time that he, like the writer of this report, was subjected to a major surgical operation from which he seems to have entirely recovered. In referring to the kindness shown him by his brethren we take pleasure in quoting his words: I shall never forget the kindness of my brethren during my illness. Beautiful flowers adorned my sick room, coining from lodges all over the state, hundreds of letters were received from my beloved brothers, filled with expressions of sympathy and the assurance of the prayers being uttered in my behalf, and I am of the flrm belief that I owe more to these prayers for my recovery than to the skill of the doctors and nurses, though I had the best in that Une to be obtained. Oh, my beloved brethren, I do not know how I can ever repay you for the loving interest you took in my welfare. I can only pledge you my renewed efforts of service to the Craft I love so well. Thanks to my faithful secretary, I do not tliink that the work in the Grand Secretary's office suffered materially during my absence in the hospital as everything appeared to be in good shape upon my return.
We know just what it all means, Brother WINSOR, and no one but
you and I can fully appreciate these tokens of remembrance in our sad hours and when we were in a position where it seemed there was no help. A proposed amendment to their laws was submitted, which provided that lodge rooms could only be occupied by the Eastern Star, White Shrine of Jerusalem and the Order of DeMolay. The proposition was referred to their Committee on Jurisprudence who made an adverse report. They felt that the Grand Lodge had already made an exception in allowing the Eastern Star to occupy their lodge rooms and they had therefore gone as far in this direction as they should go. The writer thinks the committee were absolutely right, not only from principle but if they permitted the White Shrine and DeMolay to meet in the lodge rooms what would they do about the other twentynine organizations, basing their membership either directly or indirectly on Symbolic Masonry? A notable event was the transfer of $30,000.00 from their General Fund to their Outside Relief Fund. They not only appropraited the above amount for outside relief, but also made a special assessment of fifteen cents per capita to raise money for this same purpose.
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Brother WILLIAM H . GALLAGHER submits his second report as
Correspondent, and he includes a liberal review of our 1925 Proceedings. If Brother GALLAGHER'S report concerning our Proceedings could be
sent to every lodge in our own jurisdiction they would have a complete summing up of the transactions of our Grand Lodge, in addition to some excellent remarks by the writer of the Michigan Report on Correspondence. The entire report is interesting, all of which is greatly appreciated. ARTHUR J. Fox, M.-.W.-.Grand Master, Almont.
Lou B. WlNSOR, R.-.W.\ Grand Secretary, Grand Rapids. WILLIAM H . GALLAGHER, Correspondent, Allegan.
Next Annual, Kalamazoo, May 25, 1926.
MINNESOTA —1925. Lodges, 297; members, 58,092; net gain, 2,183. St. Paul, January 21, 1925. JAMES D . MARKHAM, M.-.W.-.Grand
Master. Brother MONTREVILLE J. BROWN, our Grand Representative, was
present. From the preface to the Grand Master's address we are pleased to quote the following: Life is such that the pleasant things all too often conceal beneath the surface the trials we all must endm-e, before a real accomplishment is to be enjoyed, as a result of the mingled joys and sorrows. We, lilie our much loved North Star State, are made up of Uttle creelcs, rivulets, springs, rivers and lakes, that have given t o it, its name, to wiiich so many of the world's choicest manhood have come flocliing; many to remain for all life's time, wWle others come to see and enjoy these waters, healthful cUmate and invigorating influences, that put into our manhood the well known activity we possess.
Concerning our duty as citizens, which is an important factor in Freemasonry, we quote the following: But what help will you give to the same courts, when you fail to preserve and defend this our land, by yom- failure to cast your ballot which you are entitled to do and should do, as much as any soldier obeys his superior officer? You cannot be deported, but should you escape your clear duty by your neglect of the right of franchise, one of the most valuable rights you possess? Such neglect is what has been and is ailing our land today. We shoiild awaken each other to our true responsibility in this regard, else some day we may find ourselves awakened by a more serioiis situation. .^
The Grand Master suggested the propriety of having the Grand Lodge make ample provision for assistance during his term of office. Attention was called to the fact that with practically three hundred lodges and fifty-eight thousand members the work incident to the
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office of Grand Master was considerable, and means should be provided to take care of these matters. We notice, however, that the Grand Lodge, through the Special Committee to whom the subject was referred, did not agree with the Grand Master, believing that the system of District Inspectors should answer the purpose. Possibly that is all right in Minnesota; however, in Kansas, where we have seventy-five District Deputy Grand Masters, we make a liberal allowance for the employment of necessary stenographic help and incidental expenses for the Grand Master. Of course we have 450 lodges and practically 80,000 members. This volume of the Proceedings contains one of the most complete reports of their Masonic Home it has been the pleasure of the writer of this report to examine. I t contains fifty-five pages, and seems to be complete in every detail. Every item of receipts and expenses, donations, and the like, is set out in full. This report is worthy of the attention of any other jurisdiction having under their charge a Masonic Home. ^ Their experience with the Masonic Service Association, from which they withdrew one year ago, shows that their expenses in connection with this enterprise was from $4,000.00 to $6,000.00, in addition to the annual dues to the Association which were approximately $3,000.00 per annum. ^ Through the report of the Committee on Jurisprudence their law was amended providing for a system of transfer of membership. I t is the old story and under the regulation as adopted by their Grand Lodge, will be the source of constant annoyance and confusion and to a very great extent destroy the record of their membership. If this plan is to be carried out the Grand Lodge would do well to furnish Brother JOHN FISHEL with two additional expert clerks or stenographers. The oration at this Communication was delivered by Brother CHARLES H . MAYO, one of the most distinguished surgeons in the world. I h e name of MAYO Brothers of Rochester is almost a household one throughout t h e length and breadth of this country and names of members of this kind certainly add luster to the Fraternity. We regret that space will not permit of quoting at least a portion of his excellent address. The Report on Correspondence was presented by Brother EDMUND A. MONTGOMERY, chairman, and we are under obligations for an excellent review of our 1924 Proceedings. HAYDEN FRENCH, M . - . W . \ Grand Master, Ortonville. JOHN FISHEL, R.-.W.'. Grand Secretary, St. Paul. EDMUND A. MONTGOMERY, Correspondent, Minneapolis.
Next Annual, January 20, 1926.
'
•
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CORRESPONDENCE—MISSISSIPPI.
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MISSISSIPPI —1925. Lodges, 386; members, 34,700; net gain, 1,392. Jackson, February 24, 1925.
GEORGE D . RILEY, M.-.W.'.Grand
Master. ^ A sort of musical program, interspersed with addresses, constituted the proemial.
Brother GEORGE B . POWER acted as Master of Cere-
monies and we quote from his preliminary remarks the following, not because it is a Masonic gem, but rather to show that even the greatest of men make their mistakes: We have over 1000 members in our one lodge, in which peace and harmony prevail. ' We have for our mayor a Mason and a past potentate of Wahabi Temple of the Mystic Shrine. Associated with him on the council Is another pastj potentate of Wahabi Terhple, and associated with them is still a third Master Mason and a member of Wahabi Temple. Eecently we selected a city executive committee, one of whom is a p a s t ' potentate of Wahabi Temple, another one of whom is the wife of a past potentate of Wahabi Temple, and the third one of whom is a member of Wahabi Temple, of course all being loyal Master Masons.
-Why an organization such as the Shrine should either directly or indirectly be connected with a function under the supervision of a Grand Lodge of Symbolic Masonry is more than we can understand. The brethren were extended a cordial welcome by the mayor of the city of Jackson, as well as the Governor of the state, both of whom are members of the Craft. A response to the words of welcome was made by M.-.W.-. Brother HENRY CLAY YAWN, chairman of their
Committee on Correspondence. As usual, our Mississippi brethren were not unmindful of the once was "weaker" sex, as we find, as a part of these preliminaries, an address by the Grand Matron of the Eastern Star. A response was made to this by their Senior Grand Warden, Brother T. Q. ELLIS, and he certainly is an artist when it comes to passing out bouquets t o the ladies. I t would be a pleasure to quote more of his very mirthful remarks, but we must be satisfied with the following: I t is written that man was created and placed in the garden of Eden. He was surrounded by everything that nature could give him to entertain him and make him happy—the life-giving siinshine, the glory of the starry firmament, the bursting buds and blossoms, the babbling of the brooks, the singing of the birds, his cheek forever kissed by the gentle breeze laden with t h e perfume of the flowers: but in the midst of all this glory and peace—this beauty and sublimity man was dissatisfied and unhappy—he was lonesome (.Laughter). Then the Almighty Creator, In His infinite wisdom sent him a companion— woman—and so well has she filled that mission as companion that throughout all the subsequent ages it is not recorded that man has ever again been lonesome when woman was in spealdng distance of him (.Laughter). But H e who created the countless stars; who set the numberless worlds whir'ing in their eternal orbits; who filled infinite space with light and form did not attempt to create woman until He had had some previous experience. So He created all
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CORRESPONDENCE—MISSISSIPPI.
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things else first, and having a knowledge of the job H e was about to undertake. He rested (Laughter). and as the Sacred Word is .silent further on the subject we wll! give woman the benefit of the doubt as to whether He has since rested ILaxiQhter). Woman gave us home, ah, Home sweet Home. Upon that word there drop th( sunshine of boyhood days and the shadow of tender sorrows and the reflections of ten thousand fond memories. Home—When 1 see that word upon the printed page, or when I hear H spoken, it seems to rise and leap and flash and sparkle and pray and sing and weep. I t glitters like a Jewel, it twinkles Uke a star, it sings like an angel, it glows like a sunset, it blazes Uke the noonday sun. If some misguided lexicographer, urged on by a spirit from beneath were t o attempt to cast forth that word from our language, T think that children would rush out and cover It with garlands cf wild flowfcrs; 1 think the wealthy would hide II beneath a mass of sparkling jewels and kings would conceal it beneath their crowns; and when HEHOD had searched its life from Bethlehem to Egypt, and had given up the search as a vain one, I think tha- some bright, balmy, sunshiny day. It would emerge from the flowers, arise from the jewels and breathe forth from the coronets, and all the world would read !t as rich and beauteous and fair and resonant as before—Home, sweet Home. Brother ROBERT W . HINTON, J R . , our Grand Representative, was present. The Grand Master prefaces his address in the usual manner, expressing his appreciation of the honor conferred the year previous and making proper allusion to a review of the work done during his term of office. He then delivers a brief discourse on law enforcement, making direct reference to the so-called boot-legging, and we take pleasure in quoting the following few words as a conclusion to that portion of his remarks: An American Mason Is one who believes in the Holy nible, the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution of the United States, the public schools and the supremacy of the law over all other beliefs, creeds or edicts. And the purpose of Masonry is to make men understand more perfectly their relationships and obligations to GOD and their fellow men that He may be glorified and that manhood may be purified and magnified. He refers to the passing away of their Past Grand Master, CHARLES H. BLUM.
Under the head of "Lodges Destroyed b y Storm" he lists the names of two b u t fails to indicate whether their halls were destroyed through that medium or not. He directs attention, however, to the importance of lodges carrying insurance, stating that more than two hundred in their jurisdiction do not carry any protection. He rendered the following decision in answer to a question relative to a lodge turning out in public for a school parade: I was asked to rule on the question as to whether a Masonic Ledge could participate in a school parade with a Masonic float. 1 rultd that public processions other than through respect for the presence or memory of some distinguished member of the Fraternity are forbidden. He also covered a similar question in regard t o picnics in the following words:
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I was asked to rule on the question as to whether a Lodge could repair t o ' a remote Island tor a Masonic picnic and for the purpose of conferring degrees. I ruled that they could have the picnic but that they could not confer t h e degrees outside of the Lodge Hall. H e likewise expressed his views in regard t o chain l e t t e r s a s follows: The Grand Lodge has repeatedly condemned the practice of writing chain letters. I mention this because every once in a while we have an epidemic of chain letters, and I take this occasion to ask that you follow the instruction cf the Grand Lodge by destroying every chain letter and ignoring the request therein. T h e n as a conclusion he takes a w h a c k a t t h e l o t t e r y p r o p o s i t i o n : AU forms of lottery, raffle, and games of chance in connection with Masonic enterprises or entertainments, either direct or indirect are unmasonic and not permissible. This includes the selling or buying of tickets that entitle the holder to a chance a t something, and the selUng or buying of something, with or without value, and giving or receiving tickets that entitle the holder to a chancejto win something. T h e y are n o t unmindful of b r e t h r e n who are afflicted with t h e d r e a d disease tuberculosis, as indicated in t h e following: In compliance with Chapter 304, Mississippi Laws of 1924, a contract was entered into with the State Board of Health which provided for the erection of a buUding by the Grand Lodge on the grounds of the State Tubercular Sanatorium, according to plans approved by the Superintenden' of the Sanatorium, and that the building should be known as the Masonic Unit. I t further provided for the furnishings, the conditions on which patients are to be received, the management, etc., all of which will be covered fully by the committee's report. We are indebted to Brother FEED LOTTEEHOS for the writing of the contract. I have received several requests from other Grand Jurisdictions for information concerning the contract with the State, the building, the cost, etc. The building has been completed and arcopted by the committee. With the exception of our Masonic Homes no wcrk of Mississippi Masons is comparable to this. GOD speed the day when the needs of ALL M E N , outside, as well as Inside our ranks, shall be ministered to commensurate with His will. We may rejoice even now over the promised yield of fruit from our labors in this our first unit, which is under the suprvision of Dr. HENRY BOSWELI-, a real Mason at heart who will use his skill to restore our brothers to health. From the Grand Secretary's report we note that he has changed the membership as reported one year ago from 33,308 to 33,317 in order to force a balance. We mention this as the writer is striving each year to publish a correct synopsis of the membership of all Grand Lodges and unless the Grand Secretaries give a correct report of their membership it is a mighty hard thing for the writer to prepare correct statistical tables. The ghost of physical disqualifications still appears in this jurisdiction as we notice the Committee on Jurisprudence were called upon to pass on this question where a party who had lost his right hand desired to petition for the degrees. Both the Grand Master and the committee, however, ruled t h a t he was not eligible.
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At their evening session the Grand Master called upon several distinguished visitors for remarks, and we take pleasure in quoting the following few words for no other purpose than emphasizing the point brought out concerning the so-called "big Mason," and so-and-so having honored Masonry: We are honored this evening by the presence of several, should I say big Masons—no, because there are no big Masons, there aie no little Masons, just Masons. Shall I say men who have honored Masonry—no. Masonry honors all men. But we have with us some dislinguished guests this evening, those who have proven their ability to best work and best agree, as we are taught In Masonry, and we arc glad t(.' have them. A few months ago I had the pleasure of sitting in the Grand Lodge of California, and while there 1 met a Brother and invited him to Mississippi's Grand Lodge, t am glad that he is here. He Is a man who was raised in Mississippi, went to another state and became her Grand Master.
A resolution was introduced authorizing the Grand Secretary t o provide uniform badges for members of the Grand Lodge and that he shall likewise have an official program printed for the Communications. We wonder how it will be possible for the Grand Secretary or any one else to check up on the badge proposition when Grand Lodge closes and what is to be done where a certain number have been misplaced or lost. We predict an abundance of grief for the Grand Secretary. In our own jurisdiction we always have a complete program printed and copies sent to every lodge and Grand Officer at least six weeks before the Annual Communication. The Proceedings contain another excellent Report on Correspondence prepared by M.'. W.\ Brother HENRY CLAY YAWN, and we
are grateful for a liberal and fraternal review of our 1924 Proceedings. We are pleased to quote the following from his preface to the report: The question what can be done to cure the evil of rushing to higher degrees? Is one that .=eems to be pretty general among the Grand Lodges. Several plans have been suggested to cure the evil, but the one most frequently suggested (and it has been adopted by several Grand Lodges) is to exact a pledge from the applicant for the M. M. Degree, that he will not petition for membership in any other Body claiming tc be Masonic, under twelve months; or that he be placed on probation for a certain period, and that during that time he can not apply for membership In these Orders. Others claim that no Grand Lodge has a right to make such exactions of a Master Mason; that no restrictions can be legally or morally imposed upon his actions so long as they are within the palo of civil, moral or Masonic law. That this position is correct your correspondent hasn't a doubt. THOMAS Q . ELLIS, M.'.W.-.Grand Master, Water Valley. EDWARD L . PAUCETTE, R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary, Meridian. W. C. WALKER, Correspondent, Houston.
Next Annual, Meridian, February 23, 1926.
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MISSOURI —1924. Lodges, 659; members, 109,897; net gain, 2,856. St. Louis, October 21,1924. JOSEPH S . MCINTYRE, M.-. W / . Grand Master. Prior to the opening of the Grand Lodge the members and others were entertained by the children from the Masonic Home. The program consisted of music, both vocal and instrumental, and recitations. After the Grand Lodge had been opened the mayor of the city, Brother HENRY E . K I E L , extended the brethren a cordial welcome. Among the distinguished visitors we note the name of our own Grand Master, M.-.W.-. Brother ELMER F . STRAIN, (not ELMER K . STRAIN as indicated in these Proceedings). We are pleased to quote the following from the preface to the Grand Master's address: Like the day and the night, like the seed-time and the harvest, like the tides of the ocean and like the seasons of the >ear, our annual communications almost trip on the heels of each other, sc surely and so rapidly do they follow. I t has been a busy year, but the happiest one of my entire life—happy because the service which I have sought to render has been received by the Craft with the fullest cooperation, with the greatest charitj toward me and the utmost eagerness on the part of the Craft to do anything and everything to ftortber the welfare of Freemasonry in this Jurisdiction. Referring to " F i t Material for the Building," the Grand Master has the following to say: What do we care about the antiquity of our Fraternity? What does it matter whether our ancestors did or did not paiticipate in the building of KING SOI-OMON'F Temple? Neither pedigree n r r anceftry can make any institution or individual great. Not what Freemasonry was yesterday, or a thousand years ago, but what it is today and what it shall bo tomorrow, and likewise what is each of us today and what we shall be tomorrow, these are the all-impoitant questions to the good Freemason and the true man everywhere. We should elect to our Fraternity only those men who are good and true, and then the symbolic story of the ritual in the various degrees should be given to the candidate in a sincere and earnest manner by only those sincere and earnest Freemasons who exemplify out of the lodge, in their daily hves, a t home and in business, the sublime lessons and truths which are intended t o be taught the candidate. Unless we stand before the candidate as clean and true men, the language of the ritual will be as sounding brass and tinkling cymbals, falling on deaf ears because the candidate, knowing us, will likewise know t h a t the ceremony is mere hollow mockery. We cannot honestly ask the candidate to wear his apron spotless unless we keep our own aprons clean from the stain of sin in this Ufe. The tree is cut down when it ceases to bear good fruit, and so it will be with Freemasonry and all other human agencies. Progress, therefore, must be the guiding star of Freemasonry. Science tells us gold may be made from mercury, sugar from linen, and that shortly the rays of the sun will be transformed directly into sugar without going through the beet at all. Thus the world m.oves and so it must be with our Brotherhood. While we must hold fast to the fundamentals of our Fraternity and never siurender the ideal for the material, yet to be a living, growing force in the world, we must make our ideals
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practicable a n d must teach and Uve, both within and without the lodge room, at home and in business, those eternal truths which constitute the bulwark of Freemasonry. Under the head of "Masonic Reading" the Grand Master believes t h a t -every initiate should be given a book dealing with Masonic subjects. Why not adopt the plan of Kansas by presenting to each brother when Raised to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason one of our Masonic Monitors? If a brother is inclined to be a Masonic student the starting point will be from the Monitor. Referring to their faithful Past Grand Master, M . \ W . \ Brother C. C. WOODS, we quote the following from the Grand Master's remarks under the head of "Fraternal Correspondent:" I, therefore, recommend that M.'.W.-. Brother C. C. WOODS be retired with the title of Fraternal Correspondent Emeritus for life on the full salary of S750.00 per year, which, after all, is only a pittance for the work done in that ofHce, and likewise, I recommend that R.'.W.\ Brother MATHER be allowed S750.00 for t h e work which he has heretofore done in assisting Dr. WOODS in this work. We sincerely hope t h a t Brother WOODS may be spared to our brethren of Missouri for years to come and that he may have the pleasure of seeing what others say concerning the action of other Grand Lodges. While the following may be considered a digression, yet we feel certain it will be interesting reading and we therefore submit it for what it is worth to our brethren, as the life of this brother is indeed most wonderful and is worthy of the perusal of the readers of this report: • On the 1st day of June. 1924, accompanied by Eight Worshipful Deputy Grand Master ORESTES MITCHELL and Right Worslilpful Brother GEORGE L . MARKLEY, I visited at Breckenridge, Missouri, Brother Jos. S. HALSTEAD, who is in all probability the oldest Freemason in the world, having reached his 106th birthday on the fourth day of last March. I found him frail in body, but alert in mind. H e received u s m t h great cordiality and it was a genuine pleasure to see how very much he appreciated our visit. H e was born on the fourth day of March, 1818, during the administration of JAMES MADISON and all of the Presidents of the tJnited States except the first four have been sworn into office on his birthday. He became a Freemason in 1842 and has belonged continuously to the order since that time. He was personally acquainted with HENRY CLAY and at one time attended his family as physician. He was able to recall having heard General LAFAYETTE deliver an address in 1825. Mrs. HALSTEAD IS also alive and has passed her 95th birthday. At the time of the birth of Brother HALSTEAD in Louisville, Ky., Missouri had not yet been admitted to the Union. Brother HALSTEAD made four trips from Kentucky to Missouri on horseback prior to the Civil War. He began the practice of medicine In Kentucky, but came to Missouri in 1841 and began the practice of medicine at Eichmond, but after one year, returned to Kentucky where he practiced medicine until 1860. One of the most precious relics which Brother HALSTEAD exhibited to us was the walking cane of HENRY CLAY which had been presented to Dr. HALSTEAD by Mrs. CLAY after the death of her husband. Brother HALSTEAD told, with a great deal of pride, of a former visit to him by Dr. JOHN D . VINCIL while he was Grand Master of this Grand Lodge.
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In connection with the above the Proceedings contain a splendid' half-tone of this venerable brother and Mason, in whose presence is a likeness of Grand Master MCINTYRE who is paying him a visit.
The brethren had the pleasure of listening t o an excellent oration delivered by R.-. W.'. and Reverend Brother RUSSEL HENRY STAFFORD
and from which we take pleasure in quoting the following: First, then, the Ritual, and all our Masonic associations, emphasize the high principle of human brotherhood. I t is not that we are brothers only t o fellow-Masons; by our relations of actual fraternity with them we are taught to contemplate the truth, so often obscured by prejudice and strife, that we are brothers to all men. (Applause.) Within the Fraternity itself this is a most inclusive bond. For Masonry has never heeded the barriers of tongue, of race, or of man-made creeds, by which mankind is too much divided into quarreling sects and warring peoples. On every side, in every dispute of any magnitude, there are to be found Masons. And, when the law of Brotherly Love shall be practiced as Masonry enjoins it, then disputes will be reduced to a minimum both of numbers and of acerbity. Further, ivithin the Lodge we see the clearest exemplification that I know of anywhere of that social equality which true Brotherhood presupposes. In many a Lodge it has happened that the Worshipful Master in the East was, on the ladder of life outside the Lodge Room, a subordinate of the tiler at the door, or the least conspicuous brother in attendance at the Lodge meeting. We do not ask whose son a man is, nor yet how much money or how conspicuous a place in the community he possesses; king and carpenter are on the one level of personal rectitude and Fraternal devotion, within the chambers of Masonry. A man who has marked and inwardly digested this feature of our procedure will never, in his relations beyond our portals, be contemptuous of other men on the ground of mere accidents of fortune. Masonry stands for brotherhood; and, in a world riven with antagonisms and embittered with hatreds unworthy of the family tie which unites all sons of ADAM, it is a sufBcient justification in itself of Masonry that it stands as a conspicuous and uncompromising example and proponent of all-inclusive human brotherhood. We are slaves of habit in all the little physical activities that we do. We have also mental habits, methods of thinldng; we have all kinds of habits. And this is the most dangerous one: to get your judgment so tied up that it works by habit. If you have done that, you are positively dangerous to civlUzation, because you are no longer able to arrive at a sane conclusion on any possible problem connected with the progress of civilization. Judgment should be free; judgment means reaching the right conclusion, given a certain condition, certain surrounding circumstances, certain facts: but there are people who exercise their judgment first and then seek for surrounding facts and conditions to confirm it. That is another name for thinking by prejudice. Just because you reached a conclusion based on certain conditions twenty years ago and have never since opened your mind to new conditions and new circumstances, you may be a slave to the habit of judgment. The Report on Correspondence by Brother C. C. WOODS is, as
usual, interesting throughout. In his introduction he refers to several matters of importance and from which, under the head of "Higher Degrees" we quote the following: From most of our Grand Jurisdictions there conies a note of regret, if not of strong complaint, that Ancient Craft Masonry no longer commands that respect and veneration which is really its due. i t is the foundation and mother of all. Strictly speaking, there are no "higher degrees," and we say this with
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COBBESPONDENCE—MONTANA.
February,
all possible respect for other bodies In which we enjoy membership. But we cannot consent that the Lodge should be considered as a mere ante room or introduction to that which is esteemed higher and better, and he who hurries through the sacred precincts of the Lodge room without beholding the form and beauty thereof, and steadily looking to the plume and the fez which loom up before his Imagination, is not likely to become a Freemason in the highest sense of that term. Our 1924 Proceedings are carefully reviewed, all of the more important matters being nicely covered with but few comments. ORESTES MITCHELL, M.-.W.-.Grand Master, St. Joseph. FRANK K . JESSE, R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary, St. Louis. A.RTHUB MATHER, Correspondent, Ferguson. Next Annual, St. Joseph, October 27, 1925.
MONTANA—1924. Lodges, 133; members, 19,887; net gain, 454. Great Falls, August 20, 1924. C. S. BELL, M.-.W.-. Grand Master. M.-. W.-. Brother ROBERT J. HATHAWAY, our Grand Representative, was at his post of duty. The Grand Master was very fair concerning the disposition of the various subjects referred to the Grand Lodge as noted by the following few words: The various recommendations and opinions I shall set forth herein are my sincere views of what I believe to be of good for our beloved Institution, and it is my desire that t h e various committees considering these several matteirs shall not hesitate to bring forth their views without fear or favor, but be guided by the same motives I have in view in presenting them to you. The " r u s h i n g " of candidates has become somewhat acute and Montana has restricted the right of a newly made Mason to petition for any other degree within a certain length of time and on this subject the Grand Master has the following to say: • One of t h e best moves made in recent years to Improve the quality of Masons was t o compel all brothers to wait one year after being raised before applying for any other branch of recognized Masonry in Montana. I have talked with many high-minded Masons, who are pleased to say that Montana Masonry now has a better chance to improve. Many of the candidates have told me that they appreciate what the Grand Lodge has done for them in that instead of rushing through the so-called higher degrees they have had a chance to better understand more about the three degrees than they would have had, had they been permitted to advance hurriedly. From some quarters comes opposition to this beneficial law or order. No one should object to. obstruct or hinder in any way the things which are helping Masonry in general. We are not making Masons only for the almighty dollar nor to rush them through the Masonic quarry. We want them to be read men and real workers in the field of Masonry. There are some members who think
1925-26.
CORRESPONDENCE—MONTANA.
23a
that the Grand Lodge of Montana has no authority to make such a law. I want to tell you that the Grand Lodge of Montana still retains the right to run its owni business and to dictate to its members by making such laws as are for its better-' ment. I hope that this Grand Lodge will forver maintain this law, and I am sur& it would be of great benefit to the members who have the right viewpoint of Ancient Craft Masonry. The Grand Master is extremely liberal under the term " c h a r i t y " as we note that he contributed to several causes other than Masonic and he further recommends a number of other contributions of a similar character; however, we notice that in the request for relief for German children who are starving in Germany he declined the request, stating that their funds were Umited and that money for such cases should be used nearer home. We take pleasure in quoting the following under the subject of " A Common Grievance," as this is a matter frequently discussed in. our lodges: There is something wrong in several of the smaller lodges, in that when a candidate is black-balled, it seems to be the custom of certain brothers to attempt to ferret out the brother exercising his right. Right now, I wish to say that the greatest care should be exercised in casting the ballot. Great harm may be done to the lodge by letting in poor material. Great harm may be done to the candidate, if black-balled without proper cause. I have heard that it is common in some Lodges, when a candidate has been rejected, for the friends of the petitioner to start an immediate quest to attempt to ferret out who cast the black-ball. In their search to learn the "guilty party," as they consider It, they suspect everybody in the Lodge and make it generally disagreeable for many innocent members. Another common grievance is that in some Lodges it is comnaon to mix business, politics and reUgious matters other than what we were taught within the walls of the Lodge room. I can not conceive that a man who bears membership in a Masonic Lodge would so far forget himself. All of this is wrong doing, and will soon disrupt the Lodges wherein it applies, and I hope that the incoming Grand Master will discover the guilty parties early in his year and immediately sever their membership. It comes to me too late for proper action. Many members of this Fraternity discuss Masonry in meetings that are not Masonic, and even talk Masonry on the street in the presence of the profane. Many are not careful in this regard and in a measure, solicitation is the result. If we think we must let the world know that we are members of a Masonic Lodge, let it be shown by our daily life and in our correct deportment, not only at home but wherever we may be. We likewise take pleasure in quoting the following from the subject of "Masonic Emblems:" Firstly, my impression, according to our Masonic Code. I find that J r o m its reading, the square and compasses is the property of Ancient Craft Masonry, and under the control of the Grand Lodge of Montana, within the borders of the state. My attention has been called to the use of our emblem at places and times wherein Ancient Oraft Masonry was in no way connected. A certain Shrine Temple, having in charge local dances, advertised "Masonic Dances." It is true that the attendance was confined to Masons and their ladies, yet the public took it for granted that the Masonic Lodge or Lodges were giving the dances. We cannot say, as might have been in vogue in times gone by, " T o ' hell with the public." We must reaUze that the public sometimes gets the
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CORRESPONDENCE—MONTANA.
February,
wrong impression and Masonry suffers, as the result. Ancient Craft Masonry should not be held responsible for what some Shriners might do at a dance. J 3 The Club House at one of the college buildings in Bozeman wanted to use the square and compasses on the club building. The brother asking permission was requested not to use ii>. I hope he complied. The Mutual Rocky Mountain Club, advertising Boulder Lodge, formerly Camp Kerwin, on the Boulder River, near Big Timber, advertised to the public, using a Coat of Arms as an emblem, on which was the square and compasses. Upon writing to them at Contact PostofBce, I received a reply from their Assistant General Manager, 62 State Street, Rochester, N. Y., stating that they had discontinued the ad and that the property near Big Timber and the property at Pahaska, formerly Buffalo Bill's hunting lodge, were recently purchased by the Mutual Rocky Mountain Club and both places will be run as strictly Masonic propositions after this year, open to club members only. A De Molay council gave a dance and at the top of their ad in the paper was displayed the Masonic Square and Compass. This is a line mess, when children and their sponsors do not know better than to do such a thing. The ad with the Masonic emblem only appeared once. I recommend that this Grand Lodge promulgate some law with teeth in it, to prevent the incorrect method of using the emblem commonly used in what we term Blue Lodge affairs. In view of our own policy on the subject of physical qualifications we take pleasure in quoting the following: Much controversy has arisen regarding physical defects of applicants for the degrees of Masonry. My theory is, that we should live up strictly to the letter of the law and I have so ruled in the seveial requests to permit the accepting of applications "wherein the applicant was crippled in such a way that he could not comply with our Code. Leaving the matter to the judgment of the Worshipful Master of the Lodge itself is cowardly and oftentimes results in the admission of imfortimates who may later become charges upon the Lodges. We are not responsible for the condition of cripples and should not let •our thoughts of kindness run away with us. Let us not violate our obligation. To the best of our knowledge we do not call to mind a single in:stance in the Proceedings of any Grand Lodge where so much space was wasted as that occupied in printing an address delivered before their Grand Lodge on an educational bill presumably before Congress. 'This address consumes fifteen pages and we venture a guess that the Ibill in question, if it were printed in the Proceedings, would not occupy :as much space as this subject. We are possibly a little old fashioned, !but we are still of the opinion that making Masons at heart is a much better proposition than to try to do so through laws. The Report on Correspondence by M.'.W.-. Brother H. S. H E P N E E includes a review of our 1924 Proceedings. The report is somewhat brief, but is excellent as far as it goes. HARLON L . HART, M . ' . W . \ Grand Master, Helena. CORNELIUS HEDGES, J R . , R . ' . W . - . Grand Secretary, Helena. H . S. HEFNER, P.'. G.'. M . - . , Correspondent, Helena. Next Annual, Missoula, August 19, 1925.
1925-26,
COBBESPONDBNCE—N
EBRASKA.
235
NEBRASKA —1925. Lodges, 290; members, 40,287; net gain, 702. Omaha, June 9, 1925. ROBERT R . DICKSON, M . - . W . ' . Grand Master. The Past Grand Masters were received and welcomed by the Deputy Grand Master. They were introduced by Past Grand Master HENRY H . WILSON, and we are pleased to quote the following from his remarks, although we would much prefer to have quoted his talk in full, but must draw the line and be satisfied': I am very happy to present to you some of the Past Grand Masters of Nebraska—a very rare collection of old fossils. We have here a rare museum In genealogy. The oldest in point of service is Brother THTJMMEI. who spent his tadpole stage in the black soil of northern Illinois. He soon developed amphibian characteristics, enablini; him to leave the swamps of his native state for the highlands and fresh air of Nebraska. He became fossilized in 1876 when he passed Into the museum of Past Grand Masters of Nebraska. The oldest among them in point of years is my friend. Brother DAVIDSON, who first saw the light in 1847, also in the swamps of Illinois; he reached his fossillzation much later in life when he also passed into our museum of fossils of the Grand Lodge of Nebraska in 1893. Then further down the list is Brother FEENCH, our beloved Grand-Custodian. I t is said that some men are born great and others are born in Ohio: and if Brother FRENCH had remained in Ohio instead of becoming a fossil in our museum, he doubtless would have been a candidate for the Presidency of the United States. Next we have Brother WHITING, a neighbor of mine. It is said that Brother WHITING seldom takes a bath, perhaps because he was born in 1850 in Bath (New York state). He became fossilized rather late In life and it was not until 1910 that he took his place in our museum of fossils. If any of you should discover moss on his back, It is not due entirely to his age, he is simply a mossback democrat. Following this part of the program the Deputy Grand Master appointed a commitee of Past Grand Masters to wait on the M.'.W.'. Grand Master and conduct him to the lodge room. This procedure is not exactly according to American custom; however, it lends dignity to the occasion and possibly induces a little more respect for our Grand Masters among some of our members who are disposed to work the Democratic proposition overtime. The Grand Master then read his annual address, from which we are pleased to quote the following: Many important questions will be presented for your consideration and decision, and it is the right and duty of every brother to express his views on all matters coming before this Grand Lodge. This is your Grand Lodge; the responsibility is yours; you are the representatives of your respective lodges. The success or failure of this communication rests upon your shoulders, and you will be derelict In your duty to your lodge if you do not attend every session. Many of the brethren are apt to shirk and seek to avoid the responsibility for that which is done, and charge th6 mistakes made to the Grand Lodge instead of assuming responsibility therefor. I, therefore, beseech you that you attend every session, and assume your share of the great responsibility that rests upon this Grand Lodge. I have faith In you, and If you honestly, fearlessly.
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CORRESPONDENCE—NEBRASKA.
February.
and conscientiously exercise your best judgment, I Ifnow that the results of your deliberation.? will reflect honor and credit to the Fraternity. My brethren, viewed in the light of existing conditions. Masonry in this jurisdiction has made wonderful progress the past year. Our brothers have been prompted by the high idealism that the Fatherhood of GOD and the Brotherhood of Man are above and superior to all other things on earth. We are living in a new age of thought, action, inspiration, and opportunities; many believe that we have left the moorings of our fathers and that we are sailing on unknown seas in an unknown bark, piloted we know not where, yet in spite of existing conditions, 1 feel that we are appioacliing the dawn of a new day, a new era, one in which men will see and understand each other in a different and clearer light, realizing that man's first duty to mankind will be human service, and that the greatest of all strength is the strength of unity, and that man's duty to man, to his country, and to his GOD is to be the paramount issue of tMs new day and age. Under the head of "Masonic Education" their special committee has prepared an illustrated lecture or discourse, as notedj^from^the following taken from their report: Brother SHEPHERD has been actively engaged in tliat work,'^and has delivered his illustrated lectuie to many of the lodges in the jurisdiction. I t is a wonderful lecture, dealing with the early history of Masonry in our country, and the activities of Masons in the laying of the foundation and establishment of our government. Brother SHEPHERD'S personal knowledge and acquaintance with the many historic places, enable.? him to vividly portray the Revolutionary period. It not only reflects the early Masonic history of our country, but it is patriotic, educational, and practical, and is especially adapted to present times and conditions. I t demonstrates what a few men can do with riglit and justice on their side, and what could be accomplished by us if we were united as were the early founders of our Fraternity. This is a movement in the right direction and if continued, great will be the good that will follow, not only to the Fraternity, but to our citizenship at large. The writer personally regrets to note the retirement of their faithful, competent and well beloved Grand Secretary, FRANCIS E . WHITE. The writer knows full well that Brother W H I T E is pretty well advanced in years, but he is certainly one of the youngest, if not the youngest old man we have ever known. The Grand Lodge, however, is to be congratulated in making him their Grand Secretary Emeritus, and we trust that Brother WHITE may be spared to his brethren in Nebraska for many years to come, as his counsel and advice will be invaluable. • Past Grand Master JOHN A. EHRHARDT, chairman of the Committee on Correspondence, was unable to prepare the usual report on account of illness and the work fell on the shoulders of W.\ Brother FRANK L . HAYCOCK, and we find before us an excellent review of the various Proceedings, including our own for 1925. From the preface to his report we are pleased to quote the following few words, knowing they will be appreciated b y our readers: I t is with feelings of sorrow and regret that the conditions under which I am called upon to assume this task arise through the reluctance of my'old friend and co-worker, Fast Grand Master JOHN A. EHRHARDT, to again attempt the work.
1925-26.
CoBBESPONDENCE—NEVADA.
237
The nerveless grasp of working tools, the dimness of trestle-board Unes, sooner or later command us one and all to desist from labor and enjoy a well earned rest. I have been called from the ranks of the non-commissioned, as it were, to perform for this committee work heretofore intrusted to those of larger experience and better equipped. My aspirations to distinction are entirely appeased if 1 may deserve the title of "Brother" among three million Masons. I shall make no apology now or hereafter for the result of my efforts. If one gives the best of himself, it should preclude the necessity for defense of his work, however poor it may seem. JOHN WRIGHT, M . \ W . ' . G r a n d Master, Lincoln. LEWIS E . SMITH, R . - . W . ' . Grand Secretary, Omaha. FRANK L . HAYCOCK, Correspondent. Next Annual, Omaha, June 8, 1926.
NEVADA —1925. Lodges, 23; members, 2,687; net gain, 58. Reno, June 10, 1925. EDWARD A. DUCKER, M . - . W.-. Grand Master. They were honored at this Communication with the presence of the Grand Master of California, M.-.W.-. DAVID J. R E E S E . When introduced to the Grand Lodge Brother R E E S E was deeply affected, being a native of the state of Nevada. His remarks were interesting throughout and especially his reference to his home state and the general conditions surrounding that section of the country in his earlier life. Among other things he had the following to say: That old, far-famed Nevada spirit of hospitality, cordiality, courtesy, friendliness, generosity and good will; the memories of which I have carried with me through all these long years, characterizes this reception and greeting, and has affected me to a greater degree than I have been affected in many, many years. In concluding he spoke as follows: We have knelt at our sacred altars and have dedicated our lives to the cause of oiu- order. But, after all, the real purpose to which we have given ourselves and dedicated our lives is our American love of liberty and equality— that same love of liberty and equaUty which induced our Masonic forebears to found and dedicate this great country of ours. Those early leaders left to us the parting message that beyond our country's matchless civilization, beyond her peerless institutions, beyond her wonderful and inspiring history, we should first glorify the greatness of manhood; and may we be ever conscious of the fact that the blood of those early leaders flows through our veins and that their mantles have fallen upon our shoulders. And may we carry on until we have a new temple of liberty, to be the hope and inspiration of this people, until we have a new republic modeled after the repubUc of GOD in Heaven, whose pillars are Justice, Liberty, Truth and Brotherly Love. The Grand Master in presenting his address was not unmindful of the goodness of the Grand Architect of the Universe in preserving
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CORRESPONDENCE—NEVADA.
February,
the ranks of their official family during the past year and so expressed himself in a very pleasing manner. These remarks were followed with a blessing invoked by their Grand Chaplain. I t seems our Nevada brethren have a law almost unto themselves, if not wholly so, concerning rejected candidates, as we note from the following under the subject of "Dispensations:" On June 9, 1925, I granted dispensations to Wadsworth Lodge No. 25 to receive and act upon the jjetitions of GEORGE L . HOLLEY and GEORGE H .
HoLLEY, rejected applicants, the reasons satisfying me, the members of the Lodge having been given due notice, and the vote of the Lodge thereon being unanimous. The following question and answer is interesting to say the least and as a matter of information we take pleasure in quoting it: • In withholding my approval from an amendment to by-laws of a constituent lodge providing as follows: No petition for degrees shall be received by this Lodge when the petitioner has passed his fiftieth birthday at the date of the petition, I held: A man who has attained the age of twenty-one years or more, and is in full possession of all his mental faculties, if he is otherwise eligible, may petition for and receive the degrees of masonry. Age does not disqualify. The Grand Master was not unmindful of his duties to the lodges as we notice five pages of his excellent address are necessary in recording his visits.. Under the head of "Obedience to L a w " we are pleased to quote the following: One of the great landmarks is respect for, and obedience to the civil law and the government of the Country where a Mason resides. The landmark makes no distinction as to the kind or character of laws that should be respected and obeyed. I t embraces all laws. Kespect for and obedience to all the laws of our Country, great or small, popular or unpopular, are therefore attributes of a true Mason. Any one who disagrees with this disagrees with the supreme law of Masonry. Good citizenship demands an observance of the same rule of conduct. Not only will the true Mason be obedient to all laws—he will also use his best endeavors to influence others to do likewise. Their faithful Grand Secretary, Brother EDWARD D . VANDERLIBTH, has the following to say under the head of "History of Lodges," and as we are greatly interested in this same proposition, to which we are annually calling the attention of our lodges, we quote it as an auxiliary to our efforts: Again the attention of the Lodges is called to the great importance of preparing a historical sketch of each Lodge. Let It be a brief story of its organization, of what led up to its establishment, of its accomplishments, of the Craftsmen who paved the way, and of the stalwart workers and leaders who followed. Pictures of the buildings in which the Lodge has met would add to the interest, and we feel assured that the Grand Lodge would be glad to Incorporate all such sketches in the annual volumes of Proceedings. This should be done before the pioneers have passed away. A Committee of one wouJd best handle this matter and every Lodge should see that it is done.
1925-26.
COBBESPONDENCE—NEW
BBUNSWICK.
239
The Report on Correspondence is again the handiwork of their Grand Secretary, Brother EDWARD D . VANDERLIETH, and we are
under obligations for his fraternal reference to our 1924 Proceedings. CHARLES L . YOUNG, M.-.W.-.Grand Master, Lovelock. EDWARD D . VANDERLIETH, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary and Corre-
spondent, Reno. Next Annual, Reno, June 10, 1926.
NEW BRUNSWICK —1924. Lodges, 44; members, 5,739; net gain, 365. Moncton, August 28, 1924.
LEBARON WILSON, M.-.W.-.Grand
Master. Our Grand Representative, R.-.W.-. Brother G E S N E R ' A . TAYLOR,
was present. The Grand Master first announced that this Communication was called in accordance with a resolution passed at the Grand Lodge in August last, in anticipation that the new Masonic Temple, then being erected, would be completed. He complimented the Craft on their attendance on this occasion and then immediately proceeded to dedicate the new building. Following the ceremony the Grand Lodge resumed their seats and listened to an excellent address by their Very Worshipful Brother, the Rev. C. GORDON LAWRENCE.
We are pleased to quote the follow-
ing few words from his address: Today, as members of an Ancient and Honourable Fraternity, we have assembled with our brethren of the City of Moncton to join with them in the dedication of this stately building. In accordance with our venerable traditions it has now been dedicated with Corn, Wine and Oil in the name of JEHOVAH to Freemasonry; in the name of the Holy Saints JOHN to \'irtue; and to Universal Benevolence in the name of the whole Fraternity. As KING SOLOMON by Us act of dedication set apart to the glory of JEHOVAH the great Temple wUch he had erected, so have we today separated this building and set it apart from all unhallowed, ordinary and common use, and it will remain, we trust, throughout its history a place where free men of good morals and sound judgment may dwell together in unity, aiding each other in satisfying the GoD-given desire for Light,' encouraging by their enlightened lives all who help in the building up of good habits and healthy homes in a great Empire.
The Grand Master presented a very interesting address, from which we are pleased to quote the following: During my two years as Grand Master of this Jurisdiction I have been impressed with the fact that we give too much thought and time to the material things and not enough to the teachings of this great Fraternity. The sentiment throughout the Masonic world today is a greater exemplification of the Masonic teachings of Brotherly Love, KeUef and Truth, and a desire to render service to our feUow man and the moral advancement of the world. The teaching of Freemasonry must be full of burning fervor so as to create a desire In the heart
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CORRESPONDENCE—NEW
BRUNSWICK.
February,
of every member to express these teachings in actions. We should not consider that Masonry is an Institution from which we expect to receive, but we should put forth every effort towards the advancement and betterment of Mankind, and thus make this world recognize that Masonry has that end in view.
Under "Physical Disqualification ' 'we quote the following, purely as a matter of information to our own readers: In two cases, intending applicants for degrees had a stiff knee joint which prevented them from properly kneeling. They were otherwise very desirable candidates. As early as in 1873 it was stated by our then Grand Master, " T h a t a person is ineligible unless he is physically competent-to fulfil aU the requirements of our ritual." This view has been followed a number of times since and approved by Grand- Lodge;. and I accordingly decided that inability to kneel is a disqualification.
Under "Charter Members" he had the following to say which is in full accord with the views of the writer, and the position always taken in answering the question as to who constitutes charter members of a Masonic lodge: In connection with the issuing of the Warrant to Fownes Lodge the question arose as to who were entitled to be named in it as Charter Members. An impression prevailed that brethren joining the Lodge when it was "set to work" under Dispensation would be so entitled. My direction was that those only who had signed the original petition, in answer to which the Warrant was granted, should be named in it.
The Grand Lodge of New Brunswick heretofore has been in fraternal correspondence with the York Grand Lodge of Mexico. The Committee on Foreign Relations, however, at this Communication recommended that recognition be withdrawn and that none of the Grand Lodges of Mexico be recognized. In acting on the report of the committee, an amendment was offered t h a t further action on this subject be deferred until the next Annual Communication. We are pleased to note that the amendment was adopted. Our Grand Lodge is now and has always been in fraternal correspondence with'the York Grand Lodge of Mexico and we have had no cause to change our minds, being perfectly well satisfied that the York Grand Lodge of Mexico is the legitimate one in that district. GEORGE D . ELLIS, M.-.W.*.Grand Master, St. John. J. TWINING HARTT, R . - . W . ' . Grand Secretary, St. John.
Next Annual, St. John, August 27, 1925.
1925-26.
CORRESPONDENCE—NEW
JERSEY.
241
NEW JERSEY —1925. Lodges, 226; members, 82,827; net gain, 4,358. Trenton, April 23, 1925.
ANDREW FOULDS, J R . , M . - . W . - . Grand
Master. These Proceedings start off with a record of sixteen Emergent Communications held during the year. M.'.W.-. Brother ARTHUR POTTERTON, our Grand Representative,
was present. At the conclusion of the opening prayer, to the tune of "Old Hundred" the following was sung: Great GOD, we sing that mighty hand By wMch supported still we stand. The opening year Thy mercy shows; Let mercy crown it till it close. In scenes exalted or deprest Be Thou our joy, and Thou our rest; Thy goodness all our hopes shall raise, Adored through all our changing days.
The Grand Master was extended hearty congratulations and the best wishes of the brethren in Grand Lodge assembled, this being his twenty-eighth wedding anniversary. Expressions of good will were confirmed by sending a floral remembrance to the wife of the Grand Master. We are plea'sed to quote the following from the preface to the address of the Grand Master: BRETHREN—Sincere thankfulness to the Supreme Arcliltect of the Universe for His manifold blessings fills our hearts as we gather in our annual communication and again acknowledge our dependence upon Him for every good and perfect gift. . A condition of harmony and prosperity prevails throughout our Grand Jurisdiction, our Lodges are in excellent condition and the indications of continued growth and prosperity are aU about us. No Grand Master ever had a more loyal, earnest and wilUng staff of associates than those who have served the Craft with me during the past year; the District Deputies have been untiring in their zealous labors on behalf of the Fraternity and those who have served on committees and in other capacities have faithfully discharged their duties with great ability. Particular mention is due our Eight Worshipful Grand Secretary. Brother ISAAC CHERRV, and his associates, for the eiDcient and careful handling of the work of that office.
Fraternal relations were withdrawn from the Grand Orient of France upon the recommendation of the Grand Master. In reporting this subject it seems that his communications to the Grand Orient requesting a report concerning the recognition of the so-called Regional Grand Lodge, or Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite Univeral Freemasonry, which had invaded the jurisdiction of Pennyslvania, were ignored and this in
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CORRESPONDENCE—NEW
JERSEY.
February,
connection with the final report from the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania justified him in recommending t h a t relations with the Grand Orient be withdrawn, and his recommendation was approved by the Grand Lodge. For the information of our own brethren we are pleased to say t h a t our Grand Lodge never extended fraternal relations to any socalled Masonic Grand Body in France, and this was made plain in no uncertain terms through the report of the Committee on Correspondence in 1919. We quote the following from his subject of "Costumes in Degree Work:" Several requests having been received for permission to wear costumes In degree work. I referred the matter to the Committee on Eitual. That Committee has submitted to me the following opinion, which I approve: "Your committee are of the opinion tliat the wearing of costumes adds neither to the dignity nor impressiveness of our ceremonies and we feel that some costumes might even have the opposite effect. We, therefore, are of the opinion that It is not desirable that costumes be worn in our lodges, but that the brethren should wear t h e generally accepted style of clothing and should be properly clothed with an apron and with head uncovered." It is not intended to prohibit the use of costumes in lodge work, but rather to discourage the general adoption of costumes. Under the head of "Games of Chance, Soliciting Funds and Chain Letters" the Grand Master issued the following order: I do hereby order that the use of emblems and symbols of the Craft upon any gambling device or game of chance is unmasonic and is prohibited: that lodges, clubs and associations composed of members of the fraternity shall not solicit funds in any manner, except from their own members, mthout the approval of the Grand Master, and I do further order that the sending by members of the Craft of chain letters containing a hope of reward or threat of misfortune is prohibited. Under the head of "Political Activity Censured" he had the following to say: One of our Lodges, in its oflicial publication, urged that the members participate actively in a partisan political primary contest, and give their support to certain members of the lodge. Upon having the matter brought to my attention, I sent for those who were responsible for the notice and, being unable to obtain a satisfactory explanation, I caused the lodge to be summoned in emergent communication. As no member of the lodge attemped to repudiate the notice, the offense thus became chargeable to the entire membership and was a lodge offense. However, as the brother directly responsible apologized for his act, I felt that censure was a sufficient punishment and I accordingly adopted that course. This matter might well have been omitted from any mention but for the fact that one of the Past Masters of the lodge asserted there in no express prohibition of political activity In our written law. From time immemorial it has been our proud boast that no subject of race, creed or partisan politics is or may be permitted to enter oiu' tiled doors; that around our altar all good men may gather in harmony and that brother may meet brother without fear of partisan disputes and controversy. The discussion of religious and partisan questions in our lodges is unmasonic and prohibited.
1925-26.
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MEXICO.
243
Brother ERNEST A. R E E D prepared that portion of the Report on
Correspondence covering the Proceedings of our 1924 journal. The report is somewhat brief, but a few of the more important transactions are considered. RALPH E . LUM, M.-.W.-. Grand Master, Chatham. ISAAC CHERRY, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Trenton.
Next Annual, Trenton, April 21, 1926.
NEW MEXICO —1925. Lodges, 56; members, 6,421; net gain, 258. Silver City, February 16,1925. JOHN W . TURNER, M.-. W.'. Grand
Master. They were honored with the presence of R.-.W.'. Brother LLOYD CHAMBERLAIN HENNING,
Grand
Junior
Warden
of Arizona,
and
Brother WILBUR KEITH who with three other brethren from Texas,
were present as the representatives of the Masonic Service Association. In extending a welcome to the brethren present the Grand Master had the following to say in the preface to his address: Those of us who have been in attendance upon these Communications from year to year, feel always a pleasurable anticipation in meeting old acquaintances, renewing old friendsliips and in welcoming the Brethren who are coming among us for the first time. It is to these Bretliren that I desire especially to extend such a greeting as will make them feel at home and one of us. Their rights and privileges are just the same as ours, and their responsibilities are just as great. They are a part of this Grand Lodge and as such, should feel equally privileged to participate in all its deliberations and equally responsible for all actions taken at this Communication. It is my judgment that the greatest liludrance to progress and to the development of real brotherhood is that men from timidity, or a natural Inclination not to mix with their fellows, remain a t a distance. We want to get away from all this and let's begin now by giving each other the hand clasp of friendship and brotherly regard, telling each other who we are.
He reports that their Committee on Masonic Relief expended more than $6,000.00 in nineteen of their lodges, as well as the Sojourners' Club. The latter is stationed at Fort Bayard and is worthy of the most favorable consideration on the part of the Grand Lodge. Under "Masonic History and Research" we are pleased to quote the following as the writer has endeavored for a number of years to impress the importance of this subject on the minds of our own brethren: I want to especially commend the activities of this Important Committee. This relates to the preserving of important Masonic historical data for the benefit and information of those of future generations. The early days of Masonry in New Mexico reveal, as in the development of every other commonwealth, the close association of free government and the Masonic teachings. I, therefore, feel that this Grand Body should make suitable provisions to finance
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MEXICO.
February,
the work of this Committee in the searching for and compilation of all Masonic history in this Grand Jurisdiction. I feel that an appropriation should be made a t this time to carry on this important work. T h e q u e s t i o n of a Masonic H o m e a n d school is now u p p e r m o s t in t h e m i n d s of our N e w Mexico b r e t h r e n a n d t h e G r a n d M a s t e r recomm e n d e d t h e a p p o i n t m e n t of a c o m m i t t e e t o negotiate for options on suitable sites. W e are pleased t o q u o t e t h e following from t h e r e p o r t of t h e C o m m i t t e e o n Masonic E d u c a t i o n a l Service, although as a m a t t e r of fact it h a s n o t h i n g w h a t e v e r t o d o w i t h t h e so-called Masonic e d u c a tional proposition, b u t is simply a n interesting incident in connection w i t h t h e h i s t o r y of M a s o n r y in t h a t jurisdiction: An incident believed to be worthy of mention, and more particularly for its interest historically, was the excursion conducted under the auspices I of Eddy Lodge No. 21, Carlsbad, on August 3, 1924, to the Carlsbad Cavern ", National Monument, where the Most "Worshipful Grand Master, JOHN W . TuKNEK, and Brother WILBUH KEITH and his corps of speakers viewed with awe, admiration and amazement some of the creations of the Supreme Architect of the Universe. Leaving Carlsbad at six o'clock A. M., and traveling twenty-six miles in a southwesterly direction, the entrance to the Caverns was reached a t ten o'clock. More than one hundred persons were assembled to witness the wonders of this underground world. All members of the Fraternity were invited to join the Masonic party, as we were hailed throughout the day, and the descent via an iron bucket holding two persons, supported by a steel cable, consumed two minutes' travel to a depth of 170 feet below the surface. Toiches were lighted and the journey began under the leadership of Brethren from Eddy Lodge, whose frequent visits into the Caverns qualified them for this arduous task. Jagged trails, mountainous passes.and deep ravines met the eye of the wanderer as the torches collectively were held out to reveal the mysteries of Mother Earth. After the first one-half mile, the party welcomed its arrival at Kings' Palace, or "Shinav's Wigwam," as it hereafter wiU be designated, where lunch was served from the haversacks of tl(e burden bearers to the guests. This great "room," as large as a city block andjjvarying in height from nothing to 150 feet, revealed with the aid of powerful flares carried for the occasion, a myriad of the most delicately formed lace-like stalactites (ceiling), while giant, solidly formed soldiers of stalagmites (floor) were seen to be stationed at intervals about the. rectangular shaped wonder world. Cool, pure water running through crevices in the stalagmatic formations quenched the thirst of the already tired and weary travelers. Journeying on through the beauties indescribable, the party soon reached one approach to the "Big Room," where, it is said, there is no end. Oiu' rendezvous for the time being was a "room" of three sides, floored with thick limestone paving which permitted the Brethren, with ample space for all-purposes, to "meet upon the level." Resting as we were, and aided again by the lights from the flares, our vision became flxed some three hundred feet distant upon giant stalagmites said by geologists to be at least flfty million years old; slim, tall Totem Poles, so-called, and a ceiUng effect, some 150 feet in width, disclosing and unfolding in blood orange hues a flgiu-e similar to a gigantic lace curtain suspended from a monster theatre stage. Here, now in the darkness and silence of night, except for the ever-faithful torch,—surrounded by the awe-inspiring creations of GOD'S handiwork,—was assembled In true Masonic form, the flrst Fraternal order ever to set foot in Carlsbad Caverns a t an elevation of 785 feet below the surface, and more than three-fourths of a mile from the entrance shaft! The Masonic emblem taken from one of the Texas cars was carried into the caverns and iinfolded from a
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stalactite in " T h e East," where presided the Most Worshipful Grand Master of the Jurisdiction of New Mexico, Brother JOHN W . TURNER ; Brother STEBLINQ P. SADLER, of Dallas, Texas, in the West, and VICTOR L . MINTEB, of Eddy Lodge No. 21, Carlsbad, in the South; and the Brethren sat about the " L o d g e " according to custom. A photograph excellently executed was made by Brother BAY T . DAVIS, also of Eddy Lodge No. 21, Carlsbad. The party journeyed on Into the realms of wonderment, exploring each new scene with silence and the realization then as never before of Masonry's- teachings of the beauties and glories of the handiwork of the Supreme Grand Master of the Universe. The travelers, tired and worn, finally reached the surface over new circuitous trails, but only to flnd'that darkness was approaching and that a night of seven hours already had been spent in the bosom of nature. T h e s t o r y is illustrated b y a n excellent picture of t h e C a v e r n . F r o m t h e r e p o r t of t h e C o m m i t t e e on Jurisprudence we notice t h e G r a n d T r e a s u r e r a n d G r a n d Secretary are t o close their accounts a n d m a k e t h e i r r e p o r t s a s of December 31st. T h e writer, h a v i n g served a s G r a n d Secretary for t h e past t h i r t y - t w o years, has h a d considerable experience along t h e s e lines, a n d in view of t h e above legislation we a r e wondering h o w t h e s e G r a n d Officers can m a k e a r e p o r t on possibly ninety-five p e r cent of t h e receipts which are received A F T E R J a n u a r y 1st, a s t h e i r G r a n d Lodge meets in F e b r u a r y . I t would look a s if t h e financial r e p o r t s of their G r a n d Treasurer a n d G r a n d Secretary would h a v e t o b e covered in a r e p o r t one year later or one year after t h e receipt of t h e funds. T h e r e is no review of Proceedings, t h e chairman. B r o t h e r L u c i u s D I L L S , s t a t i n g t h a t owing t o impaired h e a l t h a n d other m a t t e r s he w a s unable t o dp this work. J A F F A M I L L E R , M . \ W . " . G r a n d M a s t e r , Roswell. A L F H E U S A . K E E N , R . ' . W . ' . Grand Secretary, Albuquerque. J O H N M I L N E , Correspondent, Albuquerque.
N e x t A n n u a l , Roswell, F e b r u a r y 15, 1926,
NEW SOUTH WALES-1924. Lodges, 4 3 7 ; members, 55,269; n e t gain, 4,631. Special C o m m u n i c a t i o n , J u l y 4, 1923. W I L L I A M T H O M P S O N , M.". W.-. G r a n d M a s t e r . A t t h i s C o m m u n i c a t i o n t h e G r a n d Director of Ceremonies m a d e d u e p r o c l a m a t i o n of t h e re-election of t h e present G r a n d M a s t e r , a n d he in t u r n a n n o u n c e d t h e a p p o i n t m e n t of his D e p u t y , R.'.W.*. B r o t h e r JOHN GOULSTON.
T h e G r a n d M a s t e r delivered his address, i n which h e stated t h a t he h a d h o p e d t o h a v e t h e privilege of installing a succcessor. I n t h i s connection we q u o t e t h e following: I had hoped tonight to have had the privilege of installing my successor. For some time I have expressed my desire to relinquish office, but my intentions have always been over-borne by the representations of active members of this
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WALES.
February.
Institution, who have applied strong pressure to induce me to remain. In the years that are past, I often realized that the sacrifice was a heavy one, because, as far as remoteness of residence is concerned, 1 w£is perhaps more inconveniently situated than anyone in this room tonight; but I look forward to this coming year with more equanimity, as I am now living within a few hundred yards of this Temple, and will be able to attend to the duties of my otilce at much greater convenience t o myself. Our Grand Representative, Brother A. J. BURBIDGE, was present. The fostering of numerous societies and organizations predicating their membership on Masonry throughout the United States, and which we regret to say are sometimes sponsored by a few Grand Lodges, does not meet the approval of our New South Wales brethren, as indicated by the following, and to which the writer, in conformity with the policy of our own Grand Lodge, says " a m e n : " Another thing that has raised its foul head in this community Is the organization called the Ku Klux Klan. Already we are inclined to admit too many American ideas, and tills particular brotherhood is a purely American organization, and one that is doing very reprehensible work in that country. The other night I ascertained that a Brother, at one of our Lodge bantiuets, had publiciiy recommended the establishment here of the Ku Klux Klan, saying that they Svere about to form branches all over the State, and that all Masons should make a special point of joining this organization, seeing that In America at least 90 per cent', of its members were Masons. Let any Mason for one moment consider the meaning and object of a body of men who set themselves above all law. They constitute themselves the judge, the jury and the law. They meet during the hours of midnight, arrayed in masks and long white sheets —you have no doubt seen many pictures of them in this garb. Consider how utterly opposed is such lawlessness to every principle of Masonry—a body of men who are bound, above all people, to uphold law and good order in society! Willie we have men speaking on behalf of this particularly obnoxious body under cover of a Masonic Lodge, there is a risk of some thoughtless Brethren being attracted by tlie arguments of these individuals, but I sincerely trust that every Master and Past Master will do all he can to obviate the risk of the Ku Klux Klan being brought to the front. The Brother who made the speech referred to said it was greatly admired in America, but I have gone through the last reports, and note that in fourteen American Jurisdictions a most stringent warning has been issued against any Masons associating themselves with It, under no less a penalty than expulsion. AVe need to takethese things in time, before they assume too formidg,ble proportions, and we can do that by'sedulously putting down any attempt to introduce such an organization amongst us. The Report on Correspondence is again presented in topical form and we were somewhat amused at a reference to Kansas as the subjects quoted in this portion of the report should be credited to some other jurisdiction, as Kansas had nothing whatever to do with them. The writer evidently got us rhixed with some other jurisdiction. JOHN GOULSTON, M.-.W.-.Grand Master. DAVID CUNNINGHAM, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Sydney.
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CORRESPONDENCE—NE
W YORK.
247
NEW YORK —1925. Lodges, 956; members, 311,270; net gain, 12,236. New York City, May 5, 1925. WILLIAM A. ROWAN, M . - . W . - . Grand Master. As a preface to this volume we find two excellent likenesses, b u t our good brother ROBERT JUDSON KENWORTHY, Grand Secretary, overlooked one very important matter in connection with these pictures and that was the omission of the names of the brethren represented, as we cannot for the life of us make out the names FROM T H E SIGNATURES. Our Grand Lodge was honored with the presence of R.\ W.'. Brother SIDNEY MORSE, as Grand Representative. The Grand Master occupies a very limited amount of space in presenting his annual address; however, we are pleased to quote the following few words from the preface: The foundations of our institution, upon which we have bullded, and upon which our forefathers in the Craft builded, remain secure, inviolate and undisturbed, and with unfaltering faith In the promise that the "Foundation of GOD standeth sure," we face the future with a firm and steadfast resolve that they shall ever so remain. "Except JEHOVAH build the house, they labor In vain that build it." As evidence of the wonderful work being done in their Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hospital we are pleased to quote the following: Some Idea of the service rendered in the Hospital may be had from the fact that from the opening of the Hospital on June 6.' 1922, to March 10, 1925, there were 1,322 cases cared for, including 274 surgical cases. In 1923 the average number of members in the Hospital was 57; for the first eleven months of 1924. the average number was 70. In December, the Infirmary in the Home was closed, and the patients transferred to the Hospital: on March 10, 1025, there were 137 members in the Hospital, the capacity of which Is 232. This being a day when every possible effort is being put forth to secure the endorsement of a Grand Lodge of Masons, we take pleasure in quoting the position taken by Grand Master ROWAN concerning what is known as the Masonic Outlook: The Chairman of the PubUcation Committee, R ..W.-. HABOLD J. RICHARDSON, Deputy Grand Master, has given a great deal of time and effort in connection with this publication, and his report will inform you as to what has been accomplished. Believing this publication should be kept entirely free from controversial matters, and propaganda of all kinds, and should never become known as an "Administration organ," I have adopted that attitude, and set what I trust may become a precedent. I hope the publication may refrain from anytlilng in the nature of criticisms of other jurisdictions, and their Grand Masters. Fragmentary views concerning the affairs of other jurisdictions may lead to well-meant, though unfair, reflection of interests and motives.
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CORRESPONDENCE—NEW
YORK.
February,
Masonry will make its progression upon its fundamental principles; individuals, and individual policies, are as "ships that pass in the night." The Maiont' Outlook has a great opportunity to hold up the beacon of the time-tried fundamentals of the Craft. In carrying on such a constructive conservative *asl£, I hope it will receive the support of all New York Masons. The Grand Master leaves no room for two interpretations of his remarks under the head of "Educational Service," and the following few words will not be amiss as a matter of information to our readers: There is need of Masonic education up to a certain point, but the demand for Masonic education Is far from being commensurate with the need. The problem is to bring the two more closely to a common level. 1 have stated on several occasions, and 1 restate here that, in my judgment, the social features should be urged more than the educational, and that the latter would develop more readily as somewhat of a natural result. Years ago the Grand Lodge extended fraternal relations to the Grand Orient of Belgium and it is now discovered that this so-called Grand Lodge does not require a belief in GOD or have the bible on its altar. The Grand Master therefore issued his Edict, severing intercourse with it. His action was approved by the Grand Lodge in the following resolution submitted by the Committee on Correspondence: Resolved, That the action of the Grand Master with reference to the Grand Orient of Belgium be, and heieby is, approved, and that the cancellation and vacation of our relations with the Grand Orient of Belgium be. and hereby is, ratified and confirmed. Under the head of " Masonic International Association," which is a self-constituted sort of clearing-house for Masonry throughout the universe, among other things the Grand Master has the following to say: The Association was the result of an attempt to work out a closer worldbrotherhood amongst all Freemasons. Only a few jurisdictions, some of whom are clandestine, have shown an interest in it. None of the regular jurisdictions of Great Britain, Ireland, C^anada. Australasia, or the United States, save New York, became members. Inasmuch as these last named jmlsdictions comprise the great majority of the regular Masons of the world, it is self-evident that a closer world-brotherhood cannot be established through a partly clandestine minority of less than three (.3%) percent of the regular Masons of the world. The Asscciatiou disregarded the objects for which it wa- formed, concerned itself in matters with which it had nothing to do, and in reference to which it was without power. Furthermore, some of its members are clandestine according to our laws and standards, in that they do not have the reqtdrements of a belief In GOD, and do not have the Bible on their Altar, and are not recognized by this Grand Jurisdiction, and until these disabilities are removed must be and remain clandestine to every member of this Jurisdiction, without regard to rank or station. The Grand Lodge of New York became a member of this Association, but in due time fully realized a mistake had been made, and under date of August 29, 1924, withdrew. In dealing with this subject their Judge Advocate had the following to say:
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YORK.
,
. 249-
It is therefore my opinion that before the Grand Lodge of the State of New York, or any of its duly accredited representatives, may hold MasonicIntercourse or enter into any engagements alTeeting or incidental to Masonry as accepted by the Grand Lodge of the State of New York with foreign bodlesor Grand Lodges, it is prerequisite that such a lodge or Grand Lodge must meet every requirement which the Grand Lodge of New York considers necessary for official recognition, and that such recognition has actually been granted b y the^ Grand Lodge of New York. Past Grand Master, M / . W / . S. NELSON SAWYER, in referring to>
the Judge Advocate's opinion, expresses his views in the following words: When in May, 1D23, we attempted to associate ourselves with this socalled Masonic International Association, a number of the members of which are not Masonic at aU according to our standards, we \'iolated our own constitution, and the action so attempted is au absolute nulUty. I t could. In my judgment, have been lawfully taken cnly after such amendment of the constitution as would waive om- present requirements and raise the ban against non-belief and clandestinlsm, both of which are fully represented in that Assorciation.
The story is a long one, but it is summed up in the following which was adopted with practically an unanimous vote: Resolved, That the action taken by the Grand Master by withdrawing the Grand Lodge cf New York from membership in the Masonic Service Association be and the same hereby is approved; Further Raolved, That the recommendation of the Grand Master that everything involving future action with reference to the Masonic Service Association be left, for the present, in the hands of the Grand Master to deal with as in his judgment may best serve the interests of the Craft in this Juris • diction, and meanwhile to join any conference of Grand Masters looking toward an arrangement to act as a imit in an emergency; any such action or actions taken by him to be reported by him to Grand Lodge at its next annual communication.
From the report of the Judge Advocate we take pleasure in quoting the following dealing with Grand Lodge and Lodge property, as this is a question which frequently arises in our own jurisdiction and the views of our New York brethren on this subject will no doubt be appreciated: The relation of the property rights of the Grand Lodge to those of chartered Lodges and the management of and dealings in the property of chartered Lodges, continues to be one of the principal activities of the Grand Master's offlce. Lodges as associations which are not incorporated have their several rights and liabilities which should not be confused with the rights and duties of a Lodge under its charter. The charter is the authority which empowers a Lodge t o work masonicaUy and in so doing does not grant civil rights or privileges. J n consequence, many of the questions addressed to the Grand Lodge require the advice of local counsel, rather than the attention of the Grand Master. The policy of the Grand Lodge should continue to be that of refusing to advise or direct the internal affairs or incidental business of chartered Lodges unless the same become the subject of complaint or appeal to the Grand Master or involve property in which the Grand Lodge may have some Interest or right.
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COBBESPONDENCE—NEW
YOBK.
February.
M.-.W.'. S. NELSON SAWYER, Chairman of the Committee on
Foreign Correspondence, submitted a special report from which we Quote the following as their standard formula in extending recognition to other Grand Lodges: Resolved, That before a recommendation of fraternal recognition of a foreign Grand Body may be submitted, it shall be ascertained by the Committee on Foreign Correspondence— T. That such Grand Body has been formed lawfully by at least three just and duly constituted Lodges, or that it has been legahzed by charter or other valid act issuing from the Grand Lodge of New York or from a Grand Body in fraternal relations with this Grand Lodge; I I . That it is a responsible Independent, self-governing organization with sole undisputed and exclusive authority over the symbolic Lodges of its jurisdiction, and not in any sense whatever subject to, or dividing such authority with, a Supreme Coimcil or other Power claiming ritualistic or other supervision or control; III. That its membership is composed of men exclusively, and that it entertains no Masonic relations with mixed Lodges or bodies admitting women into their fellowship; IV. That it adheres, in principle, to the Ancient Landmarks, traditions, customs, and usages of the Craft, as set forth in t h e Constitutions adopted by the Grand Lodge of England in 172.3; V. That it meets in particular, the following tests which the Grand Lodge of New York considers essential to acceptance of a foreign Grand Body into its fellowship: (1) Acknowledgment of a belief in GOD the Father of all men, (2) Belief in Immortality, (3) Presence of the Three Great Lights of Masonry in the Lodges while at work, chief among them the Sacred Book of the Divine Law, (4) Exclusion of controversial political and sectarian religious discussions from the Lodges and from all meetings held under the auspices of a Lodge. VI. While the Grand Lodge of New York claims exclusive jurisdiction in the territory in wliich it is the Supreme Masonic authority, it recognizes that the law of exclusive territorial jurisdiction, while firmly established in the United States and many other countries, is not universally accepted and does not constitute an Ancient Landmark of the Universal Craft. To the end that no unwarranted impediment may exclude from our fellowship such Grand Bodies as are sharing the same territory with others by mutual consent, we shall accept such mutu.al consent as entitUng the several Grand Bodies included therein to fraternal consideration, providing the applicant for recognition does not presume to extend its authority into, or presume to establish Lodges in, a territory occupied by a lawful Grand Lodge, without the expressed assent of such supreme governing body.
In his formal report we take pleasure in quoting the following words from the preface: Occasionally it has been said that our reviews are severely condensed. They are. I n no other way would it be possible to present in comparatively few pages a record of the trend of Masonic thought and action the world over. The reviews include decisions rendered on serious and puzzling questions of Masonic law; memoranda of changes in membership and administration; reference to Improved methods for making the benevolences of the Craft accomplish the greatest amount of good; indications of dangers threatening regular Masonry from without and within; evidences, in many quarters, of a renewed determination to uphold the fundamental principles of the Craft, to resist departures
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therefrom, reafBrmlng particularly the Fatherhood of GOD as a necessary condition for the promotion of the brotherhood of man, and also checking influences which would persuade the Lodges to occupy themselves with contentious political questions more or less subtly introduced. All these and other matters are noted as they appear in the various Proceedings which have come to us during the year. T h e Proceedings of K a n s a s for 1924 receive fraternal consideration a t his h a n d s , a n d while h i s r e p o r t is excellent t h r o u g h o u t , y e t i t is too limited in space. W e t a k e as a n illustration our own Proceedings for 1924, which contain several i m p o r t a n t m a t t e r s , which, if p r o p e r reference were m a d e t o t h e m in this report, would n o d o u b t b e of i n terest t o t h e readers in general a n d those in N e w Y o r k in particular. W I L L I A M A. R O W A N , M . - . W . ' . G r a n d Master, N e w York C i t y . . R O B E R T JUDSON KENWORTHY, R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary,
Masonic
Hall, N e w Y o r k City. S. N E L S O N S A W Y E R , P . \ G . " . M . - , , C o r r e s p o n d e n t , P a l m y r a .
NEW ZEALAND —1924. Lodges, 270; m e m b e r s , 22,790; n e t gain, 1,470. Auckland,' N o v e m b e r 26, 1924. J O H N R U S H W O R T H , Viscount Jellicoe of Scapa, M . ' . W . ' . G r a n d Master. W e regret t o n o t e t h e absence of o u r G r a n d Representative, a l t h o u g h we n o t e t h a t h e was n o t unmindful of his duties a n d conveyed our greetings b y letter t o t h e G r a n d Lodge. F r o m t h e address of t h e Provincial G r a n d M a s t e r we q u o t e t h e following: In the past human achievements have been of slow growth. Today there is added speed in every avenue of activity: in the coming years there will be an ever-quickening jpace along all lines of development. Amidst all the change and hurrying, not only individuals but institutions are being judged hastily and sometimes unfairly. Freemasonry is being so judged sometimes by our individual failures. This is not right. Individual judgment is never perfect. lit is ever prone to look upon the apparent and to overlook the actual—and so Freemasonry is judged as I have remarked by individual failures which are apparent, but the great silent and unseen work of the Craft Is overlooked. Time is the only impartial judge, and It is judging Freemasonry kindly. A t t h i s C o m m u n i c a t i o n a choice of G r a n d M a s t e r was m a d e w h i c h resulted in t h e selection of M.-.W.-. Brother W I L L I A M F E R G U S O N MASSEY.
T h e appreciation of t h e valuable services rendered b y H i s E x c e l lency V I S C O U N T J E L L I C O E , is expressed in t h e following words; The early departure of His Excellency VISCOUNT JELLICOE from this Dominion has been a matter of great regret to the members of Grand Lodge, and the Board of General Purposes, acting upon what is believed to be the universal desire of New Zealand Freemasons, resolved that some token of appr»-
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COBBESPONDENCE—NEW
ZEALAND.
February,
elation of the Grand Master's services to the Fraternity should be presented to him before Ills departure. It was felt that every Lodge on the Register should be afforded an opportunity of contributing to this object, as the Board was convinced that t h e value of the gift would be greatly enhanced in His Excellency's estimation b y the fact of its being a united expression of regard and esteem. A very generous response has been made by the Lodges, and it is proposed to present LORD JELLICOE with a full dress suit of regalia and a handsome breast jewel. The presentation will talce place at a banquet to be held in Christchurch on Monday, the 20th October. The Proceedings contain a picture of the jewel presented this distinguished brother, on which is inscribed the words "VISCOUNT JELLICOE, Grand Master, 20th Oct. 1924." In the bar at the top, in relief, are the letters " N . Z." and at the bottom "1922-4." The pendant consists of a wreath supported by the compasses. The salary of the Grand Secretary was increased from £550 to £600 per annum. The writer has noted t h a t with great regularity salaries of new Grand Secretaries are always raised, and we wonder why the services of the old and faithful ones are not recognized until they are either too old for service or die. From the address of the Grand Master we are pleased to quote the following: I have often thought that as Freemasons we have many pilvlleges, and at the same time we have serious responsibilities. We belong to what we believe to be the oIde.st organization on earth today—an organization founded for the good not only of its members, but also for the good of humanity. I t is quite true that its origin is lost in the mists of antiquity, but it is evident that its principles have been banded dcwn from time immemorial. There are no politics in Freemasonry, no sect, no creed; but our guide is contained in the Volume of the Sacred Law, where we are told In its pages to meditate upon it day and night, and so to observe the tilings that are written therein, that thereby we may prosper and have good successs. We are asked to notice and to act up to the Golden Rule: " Do unto others as you would that others should do unto you." We are directed to bear one another's burdens, to practice charity and benevolence. We axe expected to avoid envy, slander, and tale-bearing. We are asked to encourage peace on earth and good-wUl between men in our everyday life. We are to lead clean lives. No man is perfect, but as Freemasons if we endeavor to live up to the teachings of the Sacred Law as given to us by the Great Architect of the Universe, we shall be all the happier as individuals, and, in consequence, the Craft to which we belong will be looked up to, honored and respected. There is no Report on Correspondence. WILLIAM FERGUSON MASSEY, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Wellington. GEORGE BARCLAY, R . ' . W . ' . Grand Secretary, Auckland. Next Annual, Dunedin.
(No date given.)
1925-26.
CORRESPONDENCE—NORTH
CAROLINA.
253
NORTH CAROLINA—1925. Lodges, 458; members, 40,609; net gain, 954. Raleigh, January 20, 1925. J. LEGRAND EVERETT, M.-.W.-. Grand
Master. As a frontispiece to this volume we find a likeness of the newly elected Grand Master, M.-.W.'. Brother LEON CASH; however, we are
curious to know why they use the 33° following his name. I t would rather indicate that a man must be a 32° Mason before being eligible to the office of Grand Master. To say the least, it is not in good taste and scarcely in keeping with the dignity of Ancient Craft Masonry. : As a preface to the Proceedings proper we find a likeness of their Junior Grand Deacon, Brother J. F. RHEM, who died during the year. In this instance they use as a prefix, his professional title, " Doctor." . We note that our Grand Representative was not in attendance at this Communication, neither was he present one year ago. Might we ask what has become of the Kansas Grand Representative? In submitting his annual address the.Grand Master acknowledges with thanks the honor conferred upon him, but has nothing to offer in the way of constructive advice in presenting it. In their jurisdiction they maintain what is known as the "Oxford Orphanage," "WILLIAM J. H i x Memorial Hospital," "Masonic and
Eastern Star Home." In referring to the former the Grand Master has the following to say: I am convinced, too, that the great body of Masons in this Grand Jurisdiction are realizing more and more their individual responsibilities towards these dear fatherless and motherless little ones in our care, and I hope the time Is not far distant when each will feel that it is his duty not only to visit the Institution at least once a year, b u t to contribute to it substantially from his means.
Their Masonic Educational Loan Fund now amounts to $25,000.00, and has been distributed among twenty-two of the colleges of the state. Under the head of "Appeals for Aid" we take pleasure in quoting the following: Permit me to say just here that 1 am convinced some of oiir lodges spend too much for entertainment and pleasure and too little for charity, thereby creating the thought in the minds of the profane that a Masonic lodge is simply a place for amusement. I t is wrong—a grievous wrong, my brethren, that will work untold harm if we permit it to continue. One of the fundamental principles of our great Fraternity is charity—to help the needy and distressed. We should practice what we teach, for the greatest good that we can do in this world is the service we render to suffering humanity. I, therefore, urge each subordinate lodge to arrange its finances so that it will include not only the dues to the Grand Lodge, but Ukewise so much for charity, entertainment, and the necessary Incidental expenses; and that it permit no more of its income to be spent for the last two combined than it does for charity.
254
CORRESPONDENCE—NORTH
CAROLINA.
February,
Under "Recommendations" he suggested that the salary of the Grand Secretary be Increased to $4,000. The Committee on Finance, however, recommended an appropriation of $3,600.00 only. We wonder, therefore, if the good recommendation of the Grand Master fell by the way-side. An Interesting oration was presented by Rev. W. H. FRAZER, President of Queen's College, and we take pleasure in quoting the following from the same: But the development of a well-rounded individuality is not the whole task of the forces wliich make for the welfare of human society. In order to be a dynamic cf human society, one must express his life thus developed, in the terms of service. Self hood developed and held in reserve, is a worthless self-hood, so far as the positive contribution to the welfare of human society is concerned. I am not preaching this evening, but I do want to quote to you a definition applicable to the point which I am trying to make, and a definition of the life which reaches its highest expression: '' Whosoever shall save his life shall lose it, and whosoever shaU lose his life for my sake shall find it." There must be the readiness to pour life out in the terms of service, if we are to become a power In human society. There is no place in the social organism for the unproductive, which is the same as saying for the inactive self. The man who is inactive and nonproductive never contributes to the members of the community in which he lives in power, welfare, development, and happiness. And let me say in passing that there are two great classes of human society: those who push their energies out into the channels of service and those who restrain their energies within the limits of themselves. When MOSES, the lawgiver, was coming down from the mountain upon the occasion of that second visit for the purpose of receiving the outline of the tabernacle and for the first time the Ten Commandments engraved upon stone, JOSHUA met him afar up the mountainside, and as they wended their way through the coves, afar down the valley from below a great shout arose, and .TosHiiA said " There is the noise of war in the camp," but the great veteran leader shook his head and s a i d , " I t Is not the voice of them that shout for the mastery, nor the voice of them that cry from being overcome, but the voice of them that sing that 1 do hear." He drew a, fundamentuin divisionit, separating mankind into two great classes: those who are shouting for the mastery or are crying out because they have been worn in the performance of the task on the one hand, and those who loudly sing as they sidestep the great conscious duties and responsibilities of life on the other hand. Masonry, in its strategic position must insist upon every man being a producer of goods and a positive benefactor to mankind. Our North Carolina brethren, through the death of Justice WALTER CLARK, Chairman of their Committee on Jurisprudence, lost one of their strongest members and best advisors. Brother J. EDWARD ALLEN submitted the usual Report on Correspondence, including a review of our 1924 Proceedings. Under the head of " H o w were you Prepared" we take pleasure In quoting the following: In all sorts of circumstances this question is going to be asked of, or about you. Even in Masonry, it is asked you. There are three kinds of Masonic preparation. There is first, heart-preparation; that of the will and the emotion. Every Mason must Indispensably have this. Next, there is body-preparation. As In all else of Masonry, this symbolizes such a preparation as will enable U3 adequately, as did the heart preparation enable us gracefully, to bo of use to our fellow-man. "The Perfect Youth" was he who originally was alone eligible
1925-26.
CORRESPONDENCE—NORTH
DAKOTA.
255
to Masonry, He it is who today, in fact or in symbolic figure, is able to "best work and best agree" in making society what Masonry would have it be. Such a service cannot depend on externals, or anything which is "shallow." The third preparation is that of the mind. No matter related to all Masonry is receiving so much thought, so much deep, concentrated attention from the most eminent of scholars, as this. Its every-day name is Masonic Education, the fitness of which term we shall not here discuss. The unprecedented rush of petitioners to seek admission to Masonry immediately after the "world war left Masonry with much of Untempered Mortar to prepare for its use: and t h e process of preparation is what we are now thinking of. Many are the divergent views that we find concerning this important matter, called Masonic Education. Some hold that the status of the "extraneous degrees" which are so popular today, causes a renewed emphasis on Masonic fundamentals, which is approximately another phrase of equivalent value, to be also of reduplicated importance. We think there is perhaps much of truth in this. Therefore, a number of Grand Lodges make it mandatory that every newly raised Mason shall devote himself to the degrees of Symbolic Masonry for a year, prior to seeking admission to any extraneous organization based on membership as a Master Mason. We believe the general idea behind this requirement is not a bad one. The only trouble with it is, that it does not carry with it any assistance of a very definite or even positive nature. A number of jurisdictions also require mastery of the ritual of the Master Mason's degree. There is much of good also in this. But we, without claiming to be versed in Masonic landmark and constitution, feel that the enforcement of such a requirement as a prerequisite to recognition as in good standing in a Master Mason's lodge, occupies a place which is extremely doubtful among the accepted fundamentals of Masonry. Moreover, such an exercise is of value only within the limits which circumscribe the value of any other memory-exercise, no matter of how great value be the material used. We believe in such work, both for the child and the youth, and also for the Mason in manhood. But we believe this has value as a mediate, and not a final, objective, in the process of Masonic Education. We are not propagandists, nor do we present schematic outlines. But it occurs to us that in a field as unlimited as Masonic study, the important matters are selection, organization and concciitration. LEON CASH, M.-.W.".Grand Master, Winston-Salem. WILLIAM W . WILLSON, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Raleigh. J. EDWARD ALLEN, Correspondent, Warrenton. Next Annual, Raleigh, January 19, 1926.
NORTH DAKOTA —1925. Lodges, 124; members, 15,070; net gain, 37. Grand Forks, June 16,1925. THEODORE S. HENRY, M.-. W.-. Grand Master. We are fortunate in having an opportunity of reviewing the 1925 Proceedings of our North Dakota brethren as our report would have been closed minus this report had it not been for the kindness of their Grand Secretary, Brother WALTER L . STOCKWELL, who favored us with the gathered signatures of the journal which later will be bound in the regular form.
25fi
•
CORRESPONDENCE—NORTH
DAKOTA.
February,
Our Grand Representative, Brother HANS A. MOE, was present.
After the customary invocation and singing of "America the Beautiful," the Grand Master "declared" Grand Lodge opened for the dispatch of business. The Colors were then presented at the altar, the Grand Master "uncovered" and the brethren stood at attention during the singing of the Star Spangled Banner. After this the usual Honors were extended to M.-.W.'. Brother HARLON T . HART, Grand Master of Montana. They likewise did honor to M.'. W.'. Brother SAM A. ERICKSON, Junior Warden, and Past Grand Master M.-. W.'. Brother THOMAS MORRIS of Minnesota.
Under direction of the Grand Master the Grand Secretary received and extended a welcome to all t t e brethren present who had been Masons for fifty years or more. The Grand Master in submitting his address, among other things, had the following to say: It is with a heart overflowing with love and veneration for this great fraternity and with gratitude and affection towards my brethren that I open this TMrty-Sixth Annual Communication. I cannot help reflecting upon the happiness that has been mine the past year in doing a little something to keep the beacon light of our teachings before the eyes of the Masons of this jurisdiction.
Under the head of "District Meetings" we are pleased to quote the following: The district meetings in the spring were held for a different purpose. It was necessary that we obtain some concrete evidence and first-hand knowledge of the result of the year's program, to keep in touch with the work done and also to let the lodges and officers know that, after we had instituted and started a program of practical service and education, we had not forgotten them and their accomplishments. I believe the more Interest the Grand Lodge takes in the constituent lodges the better and greater work the lodges will do. Let us help them to help themselves; let us help them understand Masonry; let us show them how to practice and exemplify Masonry. One of the Grand Lodge's principal fvmctions is the spreading of Masonic Light and this can be done only through its branches, the constituent lodges.
Under "Decisions" we quote the following: A member in good standing who was compelled by intimidation or fear to request a demit should.be restored to membership and the demit cancelled. I beUeve thoroughly in the protection of the individual brother in his rights and privileges as a Mason; he is entitled to justice and brotherly love. If it is believed that he has committed a Masonic offense, the Courts of our order are always open where he may obtain justice. I am utterly opposed to forcing Masons out of a lodge except after a fair trial.
Under the head of "Recognition of European Grand Lodges" the Grand Master recommended the appointment of a special committee to give this subject careful consideration and report their findings at the next Annual Communication. We will look forward with a great deal of interest for this report, and especially so if our good friend and Brother STOCKWELL is a member thereof, which he certainly should be.
1925-26.
CORRESPONDENCE—NORTH
DAKOTA.
257
From the Grand Master's conclusion we are pleased to quote the following: I could not close this address without ackowledging the courtesies and kindnesses extended to me by my unselfish and loyal co-workers: Our Grand Secretary STOCKWELL whom I have come to know and love; my dear comrade and pal Bro. WM. J. HUTCHESON, our Service and Educational Director, with whom I have travelled hundreds of miles throughout this State by rail and by automobile, and to whom I have become so closely attached; then I shall always remember those men in the field, the twenty-two district deputies each of whom has been a loyal, industrious and practical assistant, and has made this year so pleasant for me. What more could any Grand Master desire than the friendship and companionship of such men as these.
The Grand Secretary, Brother STOCKWELL, submits his fifteenth
report, which fact deeply impresses the mind of the writer with that portion of our Ritual where we say "Behold how swiftly the sands of time are passing!" It seems only yesterday since the writer first met their late Grand Secretary, Brother FRANK J. THOMPSON, yet it is
almost thirty-two years. The report indicates that all reports from the lodges were received with the exception of one and as a penalty for being tardy they were fined $5.00. The monetary consideration in this matter, to the notion of the writer, will be more effective than any other form of punishment; Our own Grand Lodge should adopt something of this kind. A fitting reference is made to the passing away of Brothers NEWTON R. PARVIN, Grand Secretary of Iowa, and JoH^f M. COLLINS of West
Virginia. An excellent report concerning their library is made a part of the printed Proceedings. However, we are inclined to believe that this report should have been signed by Brother STOCKWELL instead of the lady who is his assistant in this part of the work. We are not unmindful of the respect due to the weaker sex and the writer is old fashioned enough to adhere to those finer sensibilities which were practiced more extensively when he was a young man than they are to-day; therefore the above comment is not offered because it was a lady who signed the report, but it would have been made if it had been signed by one of the brethren of that jurisdiction. His conclusion is very interesting and we are pleased to reproduce it for the benefit of our readers: Brethren, we cannot conclvide this report without giving expression to the deep feeling of gratitude which is ours that we have been permitted to share In this great work. In no matter how humble a capacity. That the spirit of Masonic service Is an ever growing tide In this jurisdiction none can doubt who is so situated as to see Its many manifestations, nor does it seem that carrying on the advance movement for adult education is by any means the least important work which this Grand Lodge Is doing. Here available to every thinking brother, is the best that has been thought and written throughout the years and Indeed the best that is being thought and written today. This is our task,— to make easily available the best literature the world aflcrds for those who are striving onward and upward to higher things, not seeking to make of their minds a mere storehouse of facts but rather a factory in which related subjects may be
258
CORRESPONDENCE—NORTH
DAKOTA.
February.
so reconstituted into that which will benefit themselves and their fellowmen, that life will be sweeter and better for all concerned; and the world inevitably, a better place in which to live. I t is never old fashioned to love the good books which will lead to this end.
Like a number of other Grand Jurisdictions our North Dakota brethren are now called upon, to make special investigations concerning the action of the so-called Grand Orient of France, which has invaded the jurisdictions of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. North Dakota, like a majority of other Grand Lodges, extended the hand of fellowship to the Grand Orient while our country was in the midst of the World War, and when sentiment absolutely controlled and warped the judgment of many Grand Lodges. Notwithstanding a full report was before their committee concerning the Grand Orient recognizing a self-constituted so-called Grand Lodge which has invaded the jurisdiction of Pennsylvania and New Jersey they withheld final action until the next Annual Communication. We do not mean to be cruel, but we cannot refrain from directing the attention of the Grand Lodges which recognized the Grand Orient and other so-called Grand-Lodges in France, to the action of our Grand Lodge in 1919. From the subject of "Topical Outline" presented by the Committee on Correspondence we are pleased to quote the following: I t is not probable that we will ever get rid of the term "Higher Degrees" or that many within the Craft will ever get to know that there is no such thing as a higher plane than the level of equality on which we all stand. The desire to take additional degrees and to be the holder of sounding titles will always persist and we shall reach the time when the question mil not be under discussion. One Grand Master suggests making the Lodge so interesting by study discussions and research that the members will not need to seek elsewhere for entertainment and information. In other Grand Jiuisdictions an attempt t o curb aspirants for advancement is in the form of restrictive legislation, requiring proficiency in certain lectures or work, or that a prescribed time must elapse between taking the Master Mason Degree and petitioning for the degrees in the Chapter or-Scottish Rite. This is largely a moot question. Some men -will become Masons. A whole lot will never be anything but Joiners.
The Committee on Trials conclude their report with the following words which are worthy of being made a part of this report: I t is with the greatest humility that your committee tenders this report. Perhpas the only unpleasant duty to be performed at this Grand Session has fallen to our lot. We have done our work willingly to assist you. Most Worshipful Sir, and the Brethren, in arriving at a just determination of these unfortunate situations, but we can frankly say that we have reluctantly, to say the least, assumed a duty which calls upon us to deal with what we consider one of mail's priceless possessions, his Masonic Eights.
The Report on Correspondence was again presented by Brother GEORGE H . PHELPS and with it he includes a review of our 1924 Pro-
ceedings. THEODORE S . HENRY, M.-.W.-.Grand Master, Valley City. WALTER L . STOCKWELL, R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary, Fargo. HENRY H. PHELPS, Correspondent, Bowbells.
1925-26.
CORRESPONDENCE—NOVA
SCOTIA.
259
NOVA SCOTIA—1925. Lodges, 79; members, 9,962; net gain, 383. Halifax, June 10, 1925.
JAMES HENRY
WINFIELD,
M.-. W . - .
Grand Master. We first note that a Lodge of Sorrow was held on November 17, 1924, in memory of the brethren who had departed this.life during the year, and especially their M.-. W.-. Brother WILLIAM MEDFORD CHRISTIE. The address was delivered by Brother Rev. W. W. JUDD,
and we are pleased to quote the following from his excellent oration: Who are these like stars appearing over memory's horizon tonight? These are they who have passed through the tribulations and tests, the joys and sorrows, the failures and triumphs of life into a greater life beyond. I want to picture them as they passed through the veil, as moving forward into a glorious existence of further service and triumph, as stepping forward with joy on their faces, with the sense of victory in their hearts, ivith a shout of expectation at the widening scenes before them. I want you to think of them as having been greeted into those bright, though to us, mysterious, regions with the sound of the trumpet. What is death to which they have gone? I like to think of the old philosopher, SOCRATES, discoursing with his friends on Death. If nothing more, he was a t least fearless for he concluded that the great mysterious Beyond could hold no worse evils than were around him here, and perchance, there might be greater goods and wider knowledge; and so he concluded that it was worth while to die as he could find nothing worse and he might find something better. In one particular at least, he passed some of his ancient contemporiaries, for, said he, when asked "How shall we bury you?" " I n any way you like, but you must first get hold of me." He knew that the body is not the self, the " 1 " of which we talk. Death can touch and crumble my house of clay, but it cannot touch me.
* * * * * * And, again. Death is a part of the natural order. " I t is as natural as sunset or as rising dawn; as natural as birth and as full of hope and expectation.;' Sometimes I think there are Masons who would leave their pliilosophy at that, the natural order. But nature is only the expression of GOD, an outward and visible sign of the Great Spiritual Being, the Father of all. Who is more even than a Great Architect of this wonderful imlverse. And as such, death, though a natural order, is ordained by a wise and lo\'lng GOD! It is a step onward and upward in a spiritual life of progress that is eternal. Sometimes, as Senior Deacon, when I have been privileged to give the Lecture on " T h e Winding Stair," 1 have been struck m t h the deadness of the philosophy of the five human senses. Even in the progress through the Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences, I have wondered if the author of that ritual was not bound down too touch to the world of sense: his geometry seems to be only for this mundane sphere: his music seems to delight only the senses: his astronomy Bcems directed only to obtaining knowledge of the worlds about, vast and numberless though they be. But 1 cannot think that knowledge stops there, and in that lecture there are hints that its author was ready to step onward t o a higher flight of stairs, a stair not made with bands, eternally leading to the vaster and freer world of the Spirit. " How nobly eloquent of Deity is that celestial sphere!—spangled as It is with the most magniflcient heralds of His infinite glory. Those stars speak to the whole universe; for there is no .speech so barbarous but their voice Is
260
CORRESPONDENCE—NOVA
SCOTIA.
February,
beard among them. 'For the very heavens declare the glory of GOD and the firmament showeth His handiwork.'"
* * * * * * Just as "numberless worlds are around lis, which roll through the vast expanse," just as on any night we may view the infinite vault of heaven with Its hosts of stars, just so are we impressed with the suggestions of the measureless depths still unknown, and the measiu'eless possibiUties still to be reached. Nay, more (and this is the important fact), we realize that we have within us the possibility of encompassing that knowledge, of reaching those heights, of seeing GOD face to face. The opportunity is to be given us, I believe. The next step after the seven gives it. That next step is the greatest of all a,)D]d yet the least, the most profound and yet the most simple. We call it 'death.' " Death Is the necessary incident in life to win through, to progress in that search for knowledge, truth, love and lifel" A t t h e A n n u a l C o m m u n i c a t i o n t h e G r a n d M a s t e r s u b m i t t e d his a d d r e s s from which we a r e pleased t o quote t h e following few words: Brethren, let each one of us go forth from this assembly determined hereafter to practise in our lives those gfeat principles of brotherhood and charity which form the foundation stones of our institution, so that our precept and example may be the leaven which will ultimately spread through the whole community to unite all men in the bonds of a universal brotherhood. This is no idle dream—it is a practical posslbiUty, and on the shoulders of us who have seen the true light is placed a real responsibility. May the great Architect of t h e Universe prosper our endeavours and assist us in our efforts to disseminate the truths and principles we stand for, as well as to live them. Referring t o t h e F r e e m a s o n s ' Hall in Halifax, a m o n g other t h i n g s he h a d t h e following t o s a y : During the year, the new buUding, which is to form the home of our Masonic Brethren of the City of Halifax, as well as this Grand Lodge, has been completed, and on April 30th I had the pleasure, a t a Special Communication of Grand Lodge, of dedicating this room to the service of Masonry in accordance with out ancient customs. The brethren of Halifax are to be congratulated on the success of their efforts. The building stands forth four-square to the world as an example of what may be accomplished by zeal and industry. It is an edifice of which we may all be proud; chaste, and still noble in its architectural features, and provided with adequate accommodation for all the various requirements of the Craft for many years to come. L a t e r on in t h e Proceedings we find t h a t t h r o u g h t h e proper comm i t t e e t h e G r a n d Lodge is t o p a y $2,500.00 p e r year r e n t for q u a r t e r s in t h i s s t r u c t u r e . F r o m t h e r e p o r t of t h e C o m m i t t e e on J u r i s p r u d e n c e concerning t h e recognition of other G r a n d Lodges we learn t h a t t h e committee first divided t h e G r a n d Lodges w i t h which t h e y are n o t now in fraternal relations i n t o t h e following classes: (1) Those which are clearly entitled to recognition but about whom sufScient information has not in the past been available t o comjnittees. (2) Those whose organization is not that of a sovereign Masonic body. (3) Those whose ritual Is not such as we can recognize. (4) Those whose constitutional foundation Is abhorrent to. what Nova Scotia recognizes to be fundamental in Masonry. T h e n follows a formula which we are pleased t o q u o t e in its ent i r e t y in o r d e r t h a t our r e a d e r s m a y u n d e r s t a n d t h a t t h e r e q u i r e m e n t s
1925-26.
CORRESPONDENCE—NoviA
SCOTIA.
261
in our Grand Jurisdiction are very largely the same as those of other jurisdictions: Fraternal recognition may be extended to a Grand Lodge when it appears to the satisfaction of this Grand Lodge, a committee having first considered and reported thereon: 1. That such Grand Body has been formed lawfully by a t least three just and duly constituted lodges, or that it has been legaUzed by a valid act issuing from The Grand Lodge of Nova Scctia, or from a Grand Body in fraternal relations with this Grand Lodge. 2. That it is an independent, self-governing, responsible organization with entire, undisputed and exclusive dogmatic and administrative authority over the Symbolic Lodges within its jurisdiction, and not in any sense whatever subject to, or dividing such authority with, a Supreme Council, or other Body claiming ritualistic or other control. 3. That it makes Masons of men only. 4. That it requires conformity to the following, which The Grand Lodge of Nova Scotia considers necessary in a Masonic Body: (a) Aclfnowledgment of a belief in GOD the Father of all men. (b) Secrecy. (c) The Symbolism of Operative Masonry. (d) The division of Symbolic Masonry into the three degrees practiced in Nova Scotia. (e) The legend of the Third Degree. (f) That its dominant purposes are charitable, benevolent, educational and for the worship of GOD; and that it excludes controversial politics and sectarian religion from all activities under its auspices. (g) The Sacred Book of the Divine Law, chief among the Three Great Lights of Masonry, indispensably present in the lodges while at work. 5. That it occupies exclusively territorial jurisdiction or else shares-the same with another by mutual consent; and that it does not presume to extend its authority into, or presume to establish lodges in a territory occupied by a lawful Grand Lodge, without the expressed assent of such supreme governing Masonic Body. Referring to the so-called Latin-American Grand Lodges the committee had the following to say: These Latin-American Grand Lodges are constantly accused of being political. Those which we have investigated are no more political than our own Masonic bodies before and during the American Revolution. The principles of liberty, equality and fraternity were taught in our lodge rooms and then the Brethren as citizens, though not as Masons, put these principles into practical effect in their civil lives. PAUL EEVEEE did not make his famous ride as a Master Mason, but as a citizen. General WAEKEN did not fight at Bunker Hill as a Mason, but as a patriot. WASHINGTON did not lead the soldiers of the Bevolutlon as a Mason, but as an officer duly authorized by organized government. Yet the principles which actuated their public lives were taught in their Masonic lodge rooms. In the Report on Correspondence prepared by their Grand Secretary, Brother JAMES C . JONES, we find a review of our 1925 Proceedings. The report is somewhat brief, but covers several of the more important transactions of the Grand Lodge at that Communication. ARTHUR JAMES DAVIS, M . ' . W . \ G r a n d Master, Halifax. JAMES C . JONES, R . ' . W . ' . Grand Secretary and Correspondent, Halifax. Next Annual, Halifax.
(No date given.)
262
CORRESPONDENCE—OHIO.
February,
OHIO -1924. Lodges, 601; members, 187,701; net gain, 7,913. Cincinnati, October 15,1924. CAMPBELL M . VOORHEES, M.-. W.-. Grand Master. We notice that the Grand Lodge was first opened in " D u e " Form and then it was again opened later on in " A m p l e " Form. We wonder whether it is necessary to open the Grand Lodge of Ohio twice lest they be imposed upon by the Cerneau. An excellent small half-tone of the Grand Master is inserted at the preface to his address. He looks a business man and from the brevity of his introductory remarks we believe this is a fact as he consumed scarcely more than six lines as a preface. Under "Necrology" he pays tribute to the memory of two Past Grand Masters—ISAAC KINSEY and
EDWIN LEWIS LYBARGBR,
and
concludes the subject with a very proper and befitting reference to the death of their faithful Grand Secretary, R.-. W.'. JACOB HENRY BROMWELL. The writer established his first personal acquaintance with him twenty-six years ago while Brother BROMWELL was serving as representative from Ohio in Congress. The friendly relations established at that time continued and when opportunity presented itself we always enjoyed a visit, exchanging ideas concerning our duties as Grand Secretary. Ohio has indeed lost a wonderful man and Mason. The Grand Master offers a semi-apology for not visiting more lodges; however, from the list recorded in his address we feel he made good in every respect. Their newly elected Grand Secretary recommends the compilation ' of a card index system for their membership, believing it will require about 750,000 cards. Being familiar with this class of work, having passed through the experience more than thirty years ago, we venture a guess that the membership of the state of Ohio from the organization of the first lodge up to the present date will require more than two million more cards than the Grand Secretary suggested. The preparation of this work will, without doubt, require the services of several thoroughly' competent people for a term of not less than five years. The proposition, however, is an excellent one and this work cannot be started too soon. Speaking for our own jurisdiction we cannot understand how it is possible for any Grand Lodge to transact their business in a proper manner without an historical record of the membership. Under the laws of the Grand Lodge of Ohio lodges are only permitted to meet in rooms jointly with the Chapter, Council, Commandery and Scottish Rite of the Northern Jurisdiction. Some good and over-zealous brother, however, proposed to amend their law and permit lodges to meet in the same room with an organization known as the DeMolay. This good brother evidently "sensed" the members of the Grand Lodge and withdrew his motion. Referring to the with-
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drawal the chairman of the committee, Brother ALLEN ANDREWS, of-
fered the following remarks which we are pleased to quote: While I am on the floor, I would just like to say, on my own responsibility, that nearly every year some very enthusiastic and well-meaning Brother comes before this Committee with some worthy cause or organization which are very meritorious and doing a great work for good and the uplifting of humanity, and they say that, therefore, the Masonic Fraternity should foster it and to attach it to Masonry. In the very nature of things usually that cannot he done. We, all of us here, are in perfect concord in fostering and forwarding tlje cause of Freemasonry or we would not be here. We all agree on that. But the very moment we undertake to hitch some good cause onto that very likely some of us will not agree with you and thereby we simply sow discord and dissension among ourselves, and we would lose our identity as a Fraternity of Freemasons and we might become a sort of an army of crusaders, fostering a great many things and dissolving our organization. For instance, you know the Methodist Church is a splendid thing, and if we had them come before our Committee someone might say that he thought the Baptist Church 1.= a better one and another one would say he thought that the Episcopal Church should be taken up. One might think that the Democratic party was a good institution and he would like to let it make its headquarters in Masonic Hail. At once a good many of 'xs would take an opposite view. I t would not work at all
The Proceedings contain excellent half-tones of their Masonic Home, including the several other buildings, all of which are an index to the spirit of charity and love for those who are unable to provide for themselves. The Report on Correspondence was again prepared by M.\ W.'. Brother O. P. SPERRA and without any comments whatever he begins
the report, headed as usual with Alabama. Kansas for 1924 receives attention at his hands and in a brief but very interesting manner sets out the more important transactions of our Grand Lodge at t h a t Communication. JAMBS B . RUHL, M.-.W.-.Grand Master, Cleveland. HARRY S . JOHNSON, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Cincinnati. 0 . P. SPERRA, P . - . G . ' . M . - . , Correspondent, Ravenna.
Next Annual, Columbus, October 21, 1925.
OKLAHOMA —1925. Lodges, 437; members, 66,662; net gain, 3,869. Tulsa, February 24, 1925.
HENRY S . JOHNSTON,
M.-.W.-.Grand
Master. The most distinguished member in attendance was their venerable Past Grand Master and Grand Secretary Emeritus, M.'. W.'. JOSEPH SAMUEL MURROW, who served their Grand Lodge as Grand Master
almost a half century ago. His brethren were not unmindful of the services he had rendered the Grand Lodge as an up-to-date picture of Brother MuRROW is made a part of the Proceedings. Brother M. F . MANVILLE, our Grand Representative, was present.
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COBBESPONDENCE—OKLAHOMA.
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We take pleasure in quoting the following from the preface to the Grand Master's address: While I have been more than willing to give to little things the attention recLuired,.and have kept before me the time-honored standard that the proper management of details is in truth the test of administrative success, yet my yearning to carry to the brothers the philosophy symbolry and mission of Masonry has over-shadowed all my other motives and Influenced my activities. I felt t h a t my promotion to the "Oriental Chair" was a summons of the Craft—a command of the brethren—to conscientiously and faithfully study the several arts, parts and points of the hidden mysteries of Freemasonry, and t o endeavor to read aright and interpret to the workmen the designs on the ti-estleboard. He has the following to say in regard to the duties a lodge owes to their candidates: Masonry's first task is to teach her pupils self-knowledge, sound laws of personal conduct, and correct rules of adjustment with their fellows. It teaches that man's flrst duty Is to reconstruct his own life. I t reveals to him his own nature and shows that GoD is his Father. By allegory and legend. Masonry admonishes that though he search North, South, East and West, true happiness and real satisfaction can not be found in or from external sources. All worldly and external honors, glories and rewards are but substitutes. In the heart alone can t h e true word be spoken, and only after completion of self-mastery. I t can only be uttered in the presence of the three sovereigns or Grand Masters of the heavenly kingdom, namely. Wisdom, Power and Beauty. Concerning Masonic duty he has the following to say: My brethren. Masonic duty and prosperity Ues in the way of teacMng and defending the people. May we teach them to detect the charlatan, the impostor, and the demagogue, to know the sign of the wise, the able, the honest, the faithful, and the true, to appraise at their high worth the precious history and the taws and constitution of our own beloved America. To know that the only abiding honor in heaven or on earth is in labor, that labor is the sign of nobility, the emblem of GOD, the Master Workman, the Master Architect, the Mcister Builder. And finally. Masonry must teach by example as well as by pi-ecept that he alone is wise who is juit. Referring to their "County Masonic Organizations" which in a great measure correspond to our district meetings, we quote the following: ARISTOTLE, the noble Greek philospher, said that " Man is a social animal." This was true in his day, and is true today. Man is a gregarious animal, and grows broad and full and strong if allowed to dwell in the company of his fellows, and the soul of man expands to higher and greater concepts when allowed to bask in the sunshine of the smiles, approbation and kindliness of his fellow creatures. He recommended that the appropriation for use of the Grand Master be increased from $1,800.00 to $3,600.00. The Finance Committee, however, increased the amount to $2,400.00 only. He was not unmindful of the services rendered the Grand Lodge by their faithful Grand Secretary and in accordance with his suggestion his salary was increased to $4,200.00 per annum.
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Under the head of " Non-Attendance" we feel quite certain that, his words as quoted will be appreciated by our membership: A comparison of former living conditions with those of today discloses what appears to me to be the underlying cause. I t lives in the total change and r e versal of social conditions. The family is basic in the stability, well-being, and security of all government. The family unit is the foundation for the structure of government. A government with a foundation of happy, contented families is like unto a. house builded upon a rock—the shifting of the sands affects it not a t aU. In the past, family life in America was filled with domestic activity; t h e family produced, manufactured, saved and preserved its own food, raiment,: conveniences and comforts of life. Their own entertainment and amusement, were largely performed within the family or by the congregation of a few famlUes. and rested upon the personal responsibility of each participant. Coiu-tship and marriage were conducted in and around the home. Ministration and nursing for the sick and distressed were personal on the part of near relatives and neighbors. Community singing, church activities and lodge attendance were in the nature of co-operative home and neighborhood activities, a mere enlargment on the expressions of mans' social and religious nature. In truth, the influence of the home shed their halo over the activities of life and the sweet compelling memories of its early associations beneficially touched the rugged activities of after years like the ever-living presence of Heaven here below. Lodge organizations are fraternal, and each lodge a rneans of greater personal service. On the high plane of friendship, lodge service is the father-motherprinciple socialized. You love the one who has nursed you in sickness, you love the face that has bent over you in tenderness, and the hand that has administered to you, and he who has thus offered his time, help, strength and service, loves the one whom he has served. The lodge, the church, the family, these three, a trinity, divine and powerful, human, sympathetic and companionable. Men rejoice in activity, and remain faithful to that alone which they serveApostasy to the home, the church, to patriotic sentiment and the observance o r national holidays in the spirit of patriotism, as well as dereliction to the lodge, are based upon and grow out of, professionalizing those activities and ministrations designed by an all-wise Creator to be used as the instrumentalities of His discipline and training for the human heart. The social call has been substituted for visits and for companionship. Conversation is a lost art. Entertainment and music have been professionalized, and are furnished almost solely by hired performers. Even home music has been professionalized until the untrained members of the family are expected t o remain discreetly silent. Nursing the sick and administering charity are being transferred to t h e paid nurse, the salaried ofBcial, the organized and ofBccred institutions. T h e home is asking the school to take its job off its hands. In short, the tendency of the times which transfers every service to the community or to the paid employee has invaded the lodge and left the average Mason with nothing to do in Masonry except to sit by and witness the conferring of an occasional degree. Let there be not less than three practice on each candidate, and with this system properly in vogue and extending even to the men believing themselves to be too busy to teach the work, the non-attendance evil will practically disappear.
By order of the Grand Lodge a likeness of their Grand Secretary, M.'. W.'. Brother WILLIAM M. ANDERSON, is made a part of the Proceedings. To the writer Brother ANDERSON looks the part of a "corn
fed" individual rather than the way he appeared the last time we met.
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CORRESPONDENCE—OREGON.
February,
which was possibly fifteen years ago. He looks hale and hearty and we wish for him -many years of good health and faithful service. They declined t o continue longer as members of the Masonic Service Association, but instead of a final withdrawal allowed the matter to rest in accordance with the following words, being a part of the report of the committee on that subject: I And yet we are of the opinion that the management of the Association by the present Executive Secretary will never be able to imite the Grand Lodges tn this common union and purpose. We therefore doubt the advisability of our participating in the National organization for the coming year, unless the Executive Commission wlU recognize the condition above stated, and change the management of the executive office by securing another Secretary. We therefore recommend that, instead of making a final withdrawal, the Grand Lodge authorize this Committee to withdraw or continue its membership in the Masonic Service Association of the United States, as conditions developed by the Executive Commission In the future may warrant. M.-. W.-. Brother THOMAS CHAUNCEY HUMPHRY submits the usual
Report on Correspondence, including a review of our 1924 Proceedings. His report is interesting throughout and we particularly appreciate his reference to our own jurisdiction. GILBERT B . BRISTOW, M . - . W . ' . G r a n d Master, Roosevelt. WILLIAM M . ANDERSON, R . - . W . ' . Grand Secretary, Guthrie. THOMAS C . HUMPHRY, P.-.G.-.M.-., Correspondent, Hugo.
Next Annual, Guthrie, February 23, 1926.
OREGON —1924. Lodges, 161; members, 26,825; net gain, 1,494. Portland, June 11, 1924.
GEORGE T . COCHRAN, M . - . W . - . Grand
Master. Our Grand Representative, Brother W. O. HAINES, was present.
We regret that we were unable to include a review of these Proceedings in our 1924 report, but they did not reach our hands until December 16, 1924. These Proceedings are unusual in one respect, and indeed so far as the writer is able to call to mind they are in a class by themselves as there is nothing in the journal of the Proceedings to show that the Grand Lodge was ever- opened. Under the subject of "Club House at Eugene" we quote the following from the address of the Grand Master: During the past year, the members of the Craftsman Club at the University of Oregon secured a parcel of land, and had the same deeded to the Grand Lodge. They thereupon secured plans and spedflcatlons and took bids for the construction of a building, all of which came within the appropriation of our Grand Lodge. The contract was let for the construction of the building, and has been signed
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by the Grand Master, and the comer-stone of the buUdlng was laid by the Grand Lodge on May 24, 1924. This is one of the first steps toward the recognition of Masonry in higher education in this state.
The closing remarks seem to us to be a new channel for the socalled higher education in Masonic affairs. He made an assignment of the week beginning November 11th as father and son week and issued an official circular accordingly. As a matter of information to the Craft in our own state we quote the following under the subject of "Educational Fund:" Our student loan fund is now being utilized to its fullest extent. We have not made any loans to any Institution outside of the University of Oregon and the Oregon Agricultural College. Almost the full amounts allowed to these institutions are taken up, and already some of the students are beginning to pay back their loans. Loans have been made to twenty-six students. Ninety orphan children have been aided during this year from the income of the educational fund, to the extent of 89,087.50. This work is real constructive work. The benefits of it cannot be measured in dollars and cents, but if we, as a fraternity, carry it on in the proper spirit and in the proper manner, its benefits will be manifested in good characters throughout our state. The income now is hardly sufBcient to do all the work that should be done by this fimd. As a matter of fact, the irreducible principal of the educational fund should be increased to $500,000, and I recommend that ways and means be devised for the increase of the fund to this sum. There is now $213,528.60 in the educational fimd, and $6,000 in the loan fund. To start the increase, I recommend that $15,000 in bonds be transferred from the general fund to the educational fimd, and that the irreducible principal of the educational fund be placed at $225,000, and the loan fund remain the same as it now is, and the balance of the educational fund be considered as expendable income.
An excellent oration was delivered, from which we quote the following: In Masonry's relation to religion, we find a mighty river of influence reaching back into the mountains of time, meeting many obstacles in its onward course, yet ever traveling forward, bearing on its bosom the everlasting truth of the Fatherhood of GOD. In ages past, men have stood upon the great divide that separated their eartly existence from their state of being in the Great Beyond, . grasping in one hand the slender thread of life and with the other reaching out and groping in the limitless expanse of eternity. . Nuggets of gold as vast as the earth and as numberless as the hordes of stars that deck the evening sky, wordly wealth and honor or the plaudits of the multitude, were as nothing compared with the peace and joy they sustained, by holding fast in their hearts, with a boundless faith their Masonic ideals. So stand we today. Masonry is today as it was in the yesterdays, and as it will be in the tomorrows. Masonry is unchanging—imchanging in that the truth never chainges, and Masonry is the truth. T h e G r a n d Secretary, in referring t o U n i t C of their M a s o n i c H o m e t a k e s t i m e b y t h e forelock as indicated in t h e following few •words: Unit C of our great Masonic home has been completed] at a cost of $93,765.87. Believing that the time is not far distant when the home wiU have to pay taxes along with church property. I would recommend that a depreciation of 2 % to 3 % on the buildings and 10 % on the furniture be charged off each year.
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CORRESPONDENCE—PENNSYLVANIA.
February,
and would like to have this referred to the ftnance committee for consideration and report.
A resolution was adopted memoralizing Congress to make a suitable appropriation for the erection of a permanent monument to the memory of LEWISTON CLARK, who made an early expedition to the
great northwest in 1804. Our good brethren of Oregon no doubt meant well in adopting such a resolution but we believe they would have been more successful if they had placed this matter in the hands of a few of their best politicians, as the writer is of the opinion that it is only through sucli channels that anything can be secured either from a state or national legislature. There is no Report on Correspondence. OLIVER P. COSHOW, M.-.W.-.Grand Master, Salem. D. R u p u s CHENEY, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Portland. DAVID P . MASON, Correspondent, Albany.
Next Annual, Portland, June 10, 1925.
PANAMA —1924. Lodges, 6; members, 400; net gain, 131. At their Communication of June 14, 1923, under the head of "Correspondence" they refer to the recognition of their Grand Lodge by the Grand Lodge of Kansas, and also mention our withdrawal from the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire. The Communications are very frequent, indeed almost as much so as some of our larger lodges. VICTOR JESURUN, M.-.W.-.Grand Master, Panama. D. L E S L I E SASSO, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Panama.
PENNSYLVANIA —1924. Lodges, 541; members, 199,840; net gain, 6,181. A Quarterly Communication was held in Philadelphia, March 5, 1924. The first order of business was a report by Past Grand Master Brother ABRAHAM M . BEITLER, stating t h a t Brother JOHN SMITH had
turned over to the Grand Lodge a total of $250,000.00 for the erection and furnishing of a Home for boys on the grounds of the Masonic Home at Elizabethtown. The Grand Lodge also received as a memorial to Brother WILLIAM LUTHER GORGAS the sum of $50,000.00, the interest of which is to be
applied to the maintenance of their Home. The brethren of Lancaster County have collected and will turn over to the Grand Lodge the sum of $95,000.00 to be used in the
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CORRESPONDENCE—PENNSYLVANIA.
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erection of a building a t their Masonic H o m e a t Elizabethtown, said building t o be known as t h e L a n c a s t e r C o u n t y Memorial. I n this connection we q u o t e t h e following words from t h e G r a n d Master, which refers t o a gift, paralleled only b y t h a t of t h e widow's mite: You have listened tonight to the presentation, to this Grand Lodge for use in our Masonic Homes work, of two very large gifts. I t is my privilege at this time in just a few words to announce a gift equally large of its kind. A gift from Brother GEORGE BLAIR, of Lodge No. 158, Philadelphia, who died January 16, 1924, leaving one-fourth of his estate for the use of the Orphanage of the Masonic Homes at Elizabethtown, the sum of $200. I mention this gift simply because I hope that the Brethren of Grand Lodge will not feel that because they are not flnancially able to give large sums of money that the small gifts will not be welcomed. Such is not the case. Let us hope that the time will come when it will be the custom of our Brethren when through with their journey in this world they will at least pass on a part of their savings, even so small, for the maintenance of that splendid work at Elizabethtown. I also wish to announce that I received yesterday from the Brethren of Blair County, the sum of one thousand (31,000) dollars for the Endowment Fund of the Homes at Elizabethtown, which is to have a special ear mark for . the maintenance of the Blair County Memcrial. F r o m some r e m a r k s m a d e b y t h e G r a n d M a s t e r we are pleased t o quote t h e following: A Mason's good standing in the Fraternity is always dependent upon his obedience to the Rules, Regulations and Edicts of this Grand Lodge, and it is quite clear that the Brethren responsible for the matters complained of are answerable as Masons for their conduct. At t h e Quarterly Communication of J u n e 8, 1924, proper t r i b u t e Is paid t o t h e m e m o r y of B r o t h e r G E O R G E J. W A L E N T A , who served t h e G r a n d Lodge as District D e p u t y G r a n d M a s t e r for a n u m b e r of years, a n d t o Brother W I L L I A M B . M E R E D I T H , who served in t h e s a m e capacity for more t h a n fifty years. A r e m a r k a b l e record and w o r t h y of a p e r m a n e n t record. Quarterly Communication September 3 , 1 9 2 4 . T h e G r a n d M a s t e r , •referring to what we ordinarily t e r m a " P a s t M a s t e r ' s N i g h t " has t h e following to say: In many of our Lodges throughout the Jurisdiction I find a growing custom to set apart one meeting night each year, when the Worshipful Master acting for the Lodge, seeks to honor the Past Masters by fUUng both the elective and appointive offices with those who in years past have served as Master of their Lodge. This beautiful custom is not only a well merited tribute to those who in the past have rendered faithful and efficient service in the Lodge, but one which will contribtite much toward keeping in closer touch with the Lodge those who, by reason of their years of experience, should be a valuable asset to every Lodge. I see no objection to this custom, nor to a proper notice of the same appearing in the notice for the meeting, provided nothing is done which is not In keeping with the dignity of the Fraternity. T h e next Q u a r t e r l y was held December 3, 1924. A t this C o m m u n i c a t i o n a full r e p o r t concerning t h e Masonic H o m e s was s u b m i t t e d .
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February.
This report is complete in every detail and shows conclusively that the business affairs of that institution are in excellent hands. The Annual Communication was held December 27, 1924. It seems the jurisdiction of Pennsylvania is being invaded by an organization styling itself "Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite Universal Freemasonry." This organization has been taken under the wings of the Grand Orient of France. This calls to mind the report made by the writer of this report concerning so-called Masonry in France, and which appears in our 1919 Proceedings. So far as Kansas Masonry is concerned we have never been associated with or contaminated by any of these so-called Grand Lodges, many of which were extended official and fraternal recognition by many Grand Lodges during the sentimental period of the war. From the address of the Grand Master we are pleased to quote the following: We are happy to report that we have enjoyed a year of prosperity both from a numerical as well as a financial viewpoint, and best of all, there prevails throughout our borders a marked spirit of unity and harmony which is finding its best expressions in an endeavor to press onward and upward toward the realization of those liigh ideals as taught by oiu' Ancient Institution. This is evidenced not only by the loyal services being rendered by the officers and members of our Lodges, nor by reason of the widespread benevolence on the part of our Lodges, but by the earnest desire for a_ deeper knowledge of Freemasonry, including its history, symbolism, morals, ethics and philosophy. On occasions like this, however, we do well to bear in mind that in a large measure we are inheritors of the noble endeavor and glorious achievement of those who in years gone by have labored diligently to lay the broad foundation and erect the superstructure of Masonry, which we are today privileged to safeguard and carry on. Living, therefore, a t a time when we witness on the part of many a desire for change and innovation, we can do nothing better to renew our faith in the high ideals of Masonry and its Ancient Landmarks, than to study the lives and characters of those early leaders "of oiu' Fraternity, such as BENJAMIN FRANKLIN, JOHN BANNISTER GIBSON, GEORGE M . DALLAS, JAMES
MiLNOR, RICHARD VADX, CLIFFORD P. MACCALLA and a host of other who have
shed lustre on the name and character of Pennsylvania Freemasonry. Under " Recommenders" he has the following to say: Both frorh experience and observation I am prompted to conclude that too much laxity exists among the Brethren regarding their duties in this important phase of our work, and which is constantly resulting in doing harm to the Craft. The confidence rightfully placed by the Lodge upon the integrity of the recommenders ought to inspire such a pride and sense of responsibility as to preclude the signing of a petition for initiation and membership, unless the petitioner Is so thoroughly known that the recommender can attest not only to knowing him in a general sense, but that he can and does certify to his high moral character, his good standing in his community, his ability to earn an honest livelihood and his fitness to be made a Mason. So grossly has this fundamental duty been violated, both maliciously as well as by reason of ignorance as to duty, that numerous cases have come to my attention for discipline, and where the facts seemed to justify I directed the Lodges to prefer charges against the transgressors for un-Masonlc conduct.
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Likewise,' under "Investigating Committees" we quote the following: If recommenders and Investigating Committees do their full duty, they will bring tc the Lodges an intelligence that wiU enable them to act in accordance with Masonic custom and will tend to promote a spirit of confidence that will In turn argue well for the harmony and prosperity of the Lodge, as well as preserve the Craft from in.iury. Let me, therefore, again urge upon all the paramount importance of this work, and let those in authority see to it that the members are fully informed as to their duties before entering upon their work, to the end that when a report comes before the Lodge it may feel assured the facts averred are in accordance with the principles as taught by our Fraternity. THE
BALLOT.
If recommenders " k n e w " the man whose petition they sign, and if time and care is given by the committee appointed to make the necessary inquiry, comparatively little use will be found for a right use of the blackball. " T h e use of the blackball is a right secured to every Master Mason, which he should be permitted to exercise mthout supervisory interference or questioning by any Brother." It is not only the greatest protection we have to safeguard the Fraternity when rightfully used, but on the other hand, in the hands of one who is unworthy to wear the badge of a Mason, it not infrequently works a very great injury to a Lodge, by denying admittance to those who are in every way worthy and thus the Craft is made to suffer. I t has already been decided that " t h e ballot is not to be polluted by petty malice," and one who thus wields the power which Masonry gives him, and excludes from our Lodges those against whom there is no other objection, has been declared by Grand Lodge " t o violate his obligation, to be a foe to Masonry and false to every principle of duty and right, and unfit to belong to the Craft." So general has become the use of the blackball in some Lodges that it may almost be said they have ceased to function. Grand Lodge, by its solemn act, confers by its Warrant the right to disseminate Masonic light, and when a Lodge so far forgets its sacred duty and ceases to confer upon those worthy, the prayer of their petition, it would seem to be the part of wisdom and our plain duty to Uft such a Warrant and place it in the hands of Brethren who will, in a conscientious manner, use the authority so given in accordance with the Ancient Usages, Customs and Landmarks of our Fraternity.
Outside organizations are referred to in the following words: • At present the chief offenders are to be found in many of the so-called Masonic clubs, a number of which have recently sprung into existence, and most of which lack the funds necessary to give adequate support with the result they are tempted to engage in practices to raise funds that are either unlawful or unbecoming a body of Masons, or has been the case in some instances, both. A Mason's good standing in the Fraternity is always dependent upon his obedience to the Bules, Regulations and Edicts of this Grand Lodge, and it is quite clear that the Brethren responsible for the matters complained of are answerable as Masons for their conduct. Grand Lodge can afford to take no other position, and I shaU not hesitate to take drastic action, if necessary, in order to protect the fair name of the Fraternity against that which may prove to be a menace. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r also p a y s his respects t o Masonic periodicals, a s shown in t h e following: During the past year there have been received in the Grand Master's ofBce many complaints which show a tendency to commercialize Freemasonry.
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CORRESPONDENCE—PENNSYLVANIA.
February,
I t covers life insurance, subscriptions principally for Masonic publications and books, mainly exercised against new initiates, and it is alleged that even threats are made to stop advancement unless the subscription is forthcoming. I t has come to my attention recently that a general advertising company has circularized all the Lodges in this Jurisdiction for information as to officers, addresses, and phone numbers. T cannot say too strongly that all these matters are strictly unmasonic, and any specific case where assistance has been given to these outside life insurance companies or book agencies and publications enabling them to prey upon new initiates will be summarily dealt with, and the Secretaries of IjOdges should be thoroughly conversant, as also the members, that the furnishing of any information concerning the Lodge to any publication or any company not authorized by Grand Lodge is prohibited.
Under the head of " T h e Masonic International Association" he has the following to say among other things: • The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania is willing and anxious to promote a friendly feeling between Masons hailing from every country, provided in so doing we are not called upon to sacrifice that which we always have, and I trust always will regard, as fundamental, a firm belief in GOD. While it may be possible to gather about a conference table and plan for a Masonry that wiil be universal in its character, it is difDcult to comprehend just how the differences between the Freemasons who do believe in the existence and full recognition of the Great Architect of the Universe and those who do not, can be bridged so as to afford those composing the Association a common ground upon which to work. As for the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, we have always refrained fiom holding fraternal relations with any Grand Lodge which does not agree with our fundamental belief in the Fatherhood of GOD—a position from which it is not likely to recede.
Referring to the Masonic Service Association we quote the following: While we are firm in our belief that there is a field of usefulness for this organization, wo cannot but voice our belief that it has gone far afield in its varied activities. This thought was suggested by Pennsylvania on the floor of the conference and found a ready response in the minds of others.
Under "Masonic Education" we quote his remarks in full: All things considered, we have made gratifjing progress in the organization of our Lecture Corps and in promoting Masonic education witliin this Jurisdiction. The Lecture Corps is functioning. Masonic literature is being supplied, and Masonic libraries are in circulation. Great cart has been exercised in the selection cf lecturers, only literature approved by the Committee on Lectures has been sent to Lods-'es, and the libraries, though small, afford a comprehensive knowledge of the History, Symbolism, Morals and Pliiloscphy of the Craft. The Committee''s bulletins ar.e helpful to the Masonic student, and if but cursorily read, give elemental information concerning the origin and development of Freemasonry within our Jurisdiction. I t is already apparent that the work of the Committee on Lectures will so supplement the work of Schools of Instruction as t<. improve^ because bettter interpreting it, the Ritualistic labors of our Lodges. I ara convinced that between Schools of Instruction In the Bitualistic work and the Committee on Lectures in educational undertakings, there should be the closest co-operation possible; and to this end I bespeak every assistance all Officers of the Grand Lodgi. can render, in whatever way they may be able to give it, that the educational movement in this Jtu-isdiction accomplish in the largest degree possible the undertaking cf the Grand
1925-26.
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Lodge clearly to define what Masonry is and what it means to b( a Mason. Brethren, we are bmlding today as never before, laying foundations on which the super-structure of the Freemasonry cf the future within this Jurisdiction shall securely rest.
The Report on Correspondence was presented by Brother THOMAS F. PENMAN and it includes a reference to our 1924 Proceedings. SAMUEL M . GOODYEAR, M.-.W.-.Grand Master, Philadelphia. JOHN A. PERRY, R . - . W . ' . Grand Secretary, Philadelphia. THOMAS F . PENMAN, Correspondent, Philadelphia.
Next Annual, Philadelphia, December 27, 1925.
PHILIPPINE ISLANDS—1925. Lodges, 92; members, 6,788; net gain, 103. Manila, January 27,1925. WENCESLAO TRINIDAD, M.-.W.-.Grand
Master. Brother HARVEY A. BORDNER, our Grand Representative, was in
attendance. We are pleased to quote the following from the Grand Master's address: As I shall set forth in detail farther ahead in this message, our Lodges have this year been busily engaged in perfecting their proficiency in the ritual. At the same time, realizing that our activities are not limited to the tyled Lodge, they have also been carrying on constructive work in the world without. Notwithstanding the hard times we have experienced, various Lodges with buildings of their own have relinquished parts of these free of charge for use by public schools and libraries. One of these activities is the organization of a corporation for the construction and'operation of a hospital for crippled children of poor parents. A number of hospitals of this kind are at present doing truly humanitarian work in the United States, and I appeal to the humane sentiments of all Masons of this jurisdiction and invite them to help along the good work recently Initiated here in order that it may grow and prosper and become a monument to the Influence of Masonry In the Philippine Islands.
The Grand Secretary presents an interesting report, including a table showing a comparison of the number of lodges and the additions and changes in membership since 1919. This exhibit shows a general increase during the past seven years. Of course the greatest amount of work accomplished was during the years 1921 and 1922. It seems that some of their lodges were in the habit of taking up collections at the close of each Communication for the purpose of raising a charity fund. The Committee on Jurisprudence ruled that in their opinion such collection should not be taken up except in cases of special emergency and recommended that the Grand Master issue an Edict accordingly. It seems that what is known as the Temple of SOLOMON in Manila,
and in which one of their lodges holds its Communications, is owned by a
274
CORRESPONDENCE—PHILIPPINE
ISLANDS.
February,
corporation composed entirely of Master Masons. This corporation granted permission to an organization known as the National Grand Lodge of the Supreme Council of the 33° of the Philippines to occupy. this Temple. The lodge interested submitted the matter to the Grand Lodge who in turn authorized the appointment of a committee of Past Grand Masters to take the matter up with this corporation. I t would seem to the writer that our Philippine brethren have troubles enough of their own in fighting illegal and irregular so-called Masonic bodies without having this unfortunate incident thrust upon them by their own members. Past Grand Master GEORGE R . HARVEY prepared the usual Report on Correspondence and in his introduction we take pleasure in quoting the following few words concerning the matter of " Investigation of Petitioners," believing it is worthy of thought on the part of our Grand Lodges: There is still much anxiety as to the care that should be taken in the investigation of petitioners, but greater liberality is being shown in the admission of men having physical defects. The deaf and the dumb are still without the pale, but the blind and the lame are sometimes admitted. There is no uniformity of opinion or action in such cases.
He grants us a liberal amount of space in reviewing our 1924 Proceedings. We are somewhat amused at his comment on the severed relations between our Grand Lodge and that of New Hampshire, in which he uses the following words, after making reference to conditions as they now exist: One jurisdiction certainly cannot dictate to another the terms under which visitors from the one may be admitted to the lodges of the other.
If our good Brother HARVEY will analyze the proposition suggested by him he will discover the fact that if such a policy were carried out by each Grand Lodge then the Grand Lodge of Kansas would have to make a law authorizing the Grand Secretary to carry a supply of blank diplomas and certificates as required by every other regular Grand Lodge throughout the world and when any one of our 80,000 members desired to visit a lodge in another Grand Jurisdiction it would be necessary to make application for the particular form required by the Grand Jurisdiction in which the brother expected to visit. Even if this were done it would not be practicable as members frequently desire to visit lodges in other jurisdictions where they had no expectation of going-before leaving their home. Why should Kansas be called upon to furnish the prescribed form of New Hampshire or why should one of our brethren visiting the Philippine Islands be required to secure one of their standard forms of documentary evidence before attempting to visit one of their lodges? No, Brother HARVEY is on the wrong track and we fear he has not read the full report concerning the unfortunate condition now existing between these two jurisdictions. One should always be very careful in expressing an opinion in a matter of
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EDWARD
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275
as much importance as this and have the subject well in hand before doing so. Brother HARVEY also takes exception to the writer's comment one year ago wherein he referred to the action of their Grand Lodge in congratulating General WOOD on having received his 33°. We have the utmost respect for Brother WOOD and we certainly have the same regard for the Grand Lodge of the Philippine Islands as we have for all other regular Grand Lodges, but we cannot side step the position taken by our Grand Lodge that outside matters have no place in a Grand Lodge of Symbolic Masonry; in other words it would have been just as appropriate for the Grand Lodge of the Philippine Islands to have congratulated General WOOD on having been made a member of the Shrine or some of the other numerous organizations claiming to be a part of Freemasonry. When the writer was honored with the 33° it was received on account of years and years of faithful service in Scottish Rite Masonry and was indeed an "Honorary" degree. To-day, conditions are different and this honorary degree is now conferred on the basis of so many in proportion to the candidates upon whom the degrees are conferred. With all due respect to General WOOD as a soldier and statesman it must be admitted that if the receiving of the 33° was now based on services in Scottish Rite Masonry he would never have been honored with the degree. Of course this statement does not carry with it an intimation that the honorary 33° is not in a great measure conferred upon those who are worthy and well qualified. CHRISTIAN WILLIAM ROSENSTOCK, M.-.W.".Grand Master, Manila. NEWTON C . COMFORT, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Manila. GEORGE R . HARVEY, P.-. G.-. M . - . , Correspondent.
Next Annual, Manila, January 26, 1926.
PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND—1925. Lodges, 15; members, 1,169; net gain, ——. Charlottetown, June 24, 1925.
WILLIAM C . LAWSON, M . \ W . ' .
Grand Master. Kansas was represented at this Communication by R.'. W.'. Brother WILLIAM G . MCDONALD.
The Grand Master in referring to their celebration of the Fiftieth Anniversary of their Grand Lodge had the following to say: I do not propose to enter into an historical review of the formation of Grand Lodge, nor give a detailed statement of the good work done by it during the 50 years of its existence as that branch of our proceedings is to be dealt with by R .-.W.'. Bro. GEO. "W. WAKEFORD, Past Deputy Grand Master. When we shall hear the past reviewed and become familiar with the conditions under which our Grand Lodge was formed, the very material progress during the first half century of its existence and Its present flourishing
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February,
condition will be a source of joy and satisfaction to all. But in the midst of our rejoicing it is most fitting that we should pause for a moment and reflect that in the short space of time since the organization of this Grand Lodge all of the members composing our first Grand Body save one, Bro. BRADFORD D , HowATT, P. M., who was a t that time affiliated with True Brothers Lodge, Crapaud, but who now is in membership in St. Andrew's Lodge, Montague, and who we trust will be in attendance today, have passed over the river and into the dark vaUey of the shadow of death. I t Is for us in beginning the second half century of our existence to rededicate our Uves to all that is great and good and true and to realize more fully our responsibilities as Masons so that we may be found ready and anxious t o contribute our part in these strenuous times to our country's welfare and in the amelioration of the community in wliich we Uve. When our time comes to be removed by death from the Lodge below and we seek admission into the Lodge above may the record of our lives and conduct be such that it may be recorded of us that we have well and faithfully carried on the work so auspiciously inaugurated by our brethren 50 years ago. Fraternal recognition was extended to the Grand Lodge of Guatemala which subject was up for discussion one year ago, but postponed for one year. The Grand Master it not unmindful of the importance of the records of their Grand Lodge, and recommends that a safe be purchased in which to keep these documents. JOHN F . MARTIN, M.-.W.-.Grand Master, Eldon. ERNEST K E M P , R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary, Charlottetown. Next Annual, Charlottetown, June 23, 1926.
QUEBEC —1925. Lodges, 80; members, 13,703; net gain, 497. Montreal, February 11,1925. ALLAN P. SHATFORD, M.-.W.'. Grand Master. M.'. W.'. Brother E . A. EVANS was present as the representative of our Grand Lodge. The Grand Master has the following to say in the preface t o his address: I t has been a period of lights and shadows, of progress and depression, of hiUs and valleys but GOD is a God of the valleys as well of the hills. "Shall we receive good from the Hand of the Lord and shall we not also receive evil? " Are there not mcral uses of adversity as well of prosperity? I t sometimes happens that we learn more in the hours of darkness than in the full glory of the . noonday, so we gratefully acknowledge the leading cf GOD in all the events of the past year and pray His mercy upon our failure to make the best use of our opportunities. The Grand Master, under the head of "Grand Secretary" reports t h a t this officer hereafter will devote his full time to the office. I t would seem that this is a wise move on the part of the Grand Lodge of Quebec as their jurisdiction is now of such size t h a t to properly
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look after the duties devolving upon a Grand Secretary it will require all of his time. Under the subject of "Form and Spirit" and "Are you a Mason?" we cannot refrain from quoting the following, feeling confident that these remarks will be appreciated by all of our readers: There are few organizations, if any, wherein spirit and form are mora continually present than in Masonry. I t is consequently subject to those misuses and abuses which characterize the conduct of man where these two manifestations of life are evident. Where will you go to find a loftier and sweeter spirit than Masonry in Ideal exhibits? And where will you discover a more complicated and multiplied display of forms? Our ideas are aU veiled In allegory and symbols. Our ethics are cast in metaphor and figure. Our Bltual is one long and wondrous skein of intricate forms. Like the meshes of a net they cross and re-cross one another continuously. What wonder if men get lost or confused in this maze of mysteries! Yet it is of the very essence of our Order that we should keep spirit and form in their due proportion. It is of primary importance that we recognize the superiority of spirit over form but it Is almost of equal significance that we learn the true value of forms. The spirit can only be manifested in external shape but bow often does the form choke the Spirit or hinder its fullest revelation? Man has always been making the mistake of holding the form after the Spirit has been released from it, or he has run the risk of discarding the form before he has fully grasped and understood the Spirit. The temptation in Masonry is to over-stress the form. There are brethren who wear regalia and exhibit the ornaments who are void of the Spirit of Masonry. There are excessive ritualists who mil spUt hairs over a word or accent while all the while they are wholly unmindful of the Spirit enshrined in the form. Cases have been known where "good men and t r u e " have been barred from a lodge because of some trifling difference in a password or grip. This is surely to caricature Masonry. Have we not all known brethren who were moved by the. highest and fullest Spirit of Masonry and yet were profoundly unlettered in the use of forms? I want to urge, with what force I may have, the paramount importance of the Spirit of Masonry while at the same time giving to form its proper value. One sometimes hears brethren express the desire that Masonry should ally itself to certain movements in the social and political world. They would tie it to a definite party of reform or seek to secure its support for some needed cause. One can understand this desire and in a measure sympathize with It. We live in an age of Service Clubs—^Socleties that are pledged to a welldefined effort of philanthropy. Men are asking '' What is Masonry doing? Why does not your organization endorse some deflnitely good work? Have you helped any institution or supported any beniflcience? " Criticism is rife because Masonry has not backed any needful cause. I t would, however, be fatal to the central principle of our Order if Masonry allied itself to any of the many forms of human service. All societies are more or less partizan and Masonry by its very Charter and character cannot identify itself with partizanship. She stands for universal fellowship and must eschew all partial causes, even at the price of suspicion and misunderstanding. Masonry is a Spirit, first, last and always. I t is the Spirit of human friendship. It rises above all sectional feelings, all racial differences. It has only one dogma—the Fatherhood of GOD. Masonry is not a religion nor a political society. She must refuse to identify herself with any Church, however noble, or with any patriotic organization, however widespread. She has often been accused of religious bias and National prejudices because of the weaknesses of her members, but in her real character she cannot be sectarian or sectional. She stands not so much for tolerance as for fraternity. She seeks to bind men of all races, creeds and parties together. She is of all regligions where GOD, the Great Creator and Father, is recognized. Any effort to identifj her exclusively with one form of religion or race would destroy her mlssioiu
278
CORRESPONDENCE—QUEENSLAND.
February,
AKE YOTJ A MASON.
That question, so frequently asked, demands something more than being versed in ritual or the exchange of secret grips. If all you have to give in response to it is a whispered word or a pressure of the fingers, a sign or an offered jewel, then you have learned little of what it means to be a Mason. For Masonry in its deeper aspect is of the soul and mind, it is to see in your fellowman, whether he be learned or ignorant, whether he be black or white, whether he hails from West or East, a friend and brother, one whom you can love and servo. The question you will ask lilm, if you be a true Mason, is not " W h a t is your creed?" but " W h a t is your need?" You will see in him the same high aspirations and the same weaknesses that you discover in yourself. The thought of exploiting him will never darken your soul, the hope of claiming him for the highest will radiate your heart and flush your mind m t h promised victory. If you have t h e Spirit of Masonry you will be able to detect the jewel of character under t h e most unattractive dress: you will recognize a brother under the swarthiest skin. Being yourself filled with the Masonic Spirit of Charity youwill make excuses where others condemn, you will love where others only admire, you will serve while others talk. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r called a t t e n t i o n t o t h e fact t h a t this Comm u n i c a t i o n r o u n d e d o u t t h e fiftieth year since t h e question of jurist diction w a s satisfactorily settled with t h e G r a n d Lodge of C a n a d a , awhich t i m e t h e y h a d t w e n t y - t h r e e lodges. T h e R e p o r t on Correspondence was p r e p a r e d b y M.'. W.'. B r o t h e r E . T . D . C H A M B E R S . I n s t a r t i n g his review we notice t h a t serious illness interfered more or less w i t h t h e p r e p a r a t i o n of h i s report. W e sincerely h o p e t h a t h e is again restored t o health a n d will be w i t h t h e b r e t h r e n of Quebec for m a n y years t o come. W e a r e grateful for a brief review of o u r 1924 Proceedings. W I L L I A M J. E W I N G , M . - . W . ' . G r a n d M a s t e r ,
Richmond.
W. W. WILLIAMSON, R . - . W . \ Grand Secretary, Montreal. E. T . D . CHAMBERS, P . - . G . ' . M . - . , Correspondent, Quebec.
N e x t A n n u a l , M o n t r e a l , F e b r u a r y 10, 1926.
QUEENSLAND - 1 9 2 4 . Lodges, 317; members, 20,000; n e t gain, 1,000. Q u a r t e r l y C o m m u n i c a t i o n was held J u n e 6, 1923. I n reviewing t h e s e Proceedings it is necessary t o go b a c k t o t h e journal of t w o years ago a n d for t h a t reason we a r e obliged t o m a k e this review v e r y brief. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r , referring t o visits, h a s t h e following t o s a y : 1 am convinced that the visits of Grand Lodge Officers to the more remote Lodges in the country have been far too few and altogether irregular. Grand Lodge can only discharge its duty to the Country Lodges by arranging that every Lodge shall receive a t least one visit annually from a Grand Lodge OfBcer of rank and qualifications sufficient to represent the Grand Master. A t a Special C o m m u n i c a t i o n held J u l y 17, 1923, w e q u o t e t h e following from t h e reference t o t h e installation of their G r a n d M a s t e r :
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Preceded by the acting Grand Herald, Director of Ceremonies, two Standard Bearers, and accompanied by R .."W.: Bros. E. G. WHITE and A. STIRLING, bearing the Grand Master's apron, collar, jewels, and gauntlets, M.'.W.'. Bro. CHARLES STUMM, tlie Grand Master-elect, entered and was presented for investiture and installation. T h e G r a n d Master, referring to t h e subject of " C o n s e c r a t i o n " has t h e following t o s a y : In our beautiful and solemn consecration ceremony, you will remember there is presented, in accordance with ancient custom, at the completion of every important undertalting, a vessel of oil, as a symbol of peace and unanimity, JIas each brother during the past year presented his vessel of oil. And what is more important, does he propose to contribute oil diu'ing the coming year. Tlie vessel of bitterness and uncharitableness should find no part in the worlt of laying the foundations and raising the super-structure of our Masonic Temple of Union. I am in the habit of telling the foundation members of every lodge I consecrate that they are engaged in framing and forming the standard of their lodge, that it will be a high standard lodge, or a moderate lodge, or an indifferent lodge, according to the measure of their regard for and practice of the principles and traditions and teachings of Freemasonry. Q u a r t e r l y C o m m u n i c a t i o n M a r c h 5, 1924. Concerning t h e d e a t h of R.-. W . \ B r o t h e r J. R. H . L E W I S , President of t h e B o a r d of B e n e v o l ence, t h e D e p u t y G r a n d Master has t h e following t o say: Throughout his Masonic career, the outstanding feature was certainly his devotion and activity in Masonic benevolence. In his capacity as President of that Board, for which he was undoubtedly pre-eminently suited, he was ever ready to listen in a most sympathetic and fraternal manner to all those who have been visited by misfortune; who were afflicted by sickness: to the widow and the orphan: and in every case he gave his time freely, and there was no limit to his sympathy. T h e r e is no R e p o r t on Correspondence. I n concluding t h e review of Queensland, and as this is a y o u n g jurisdiction, we v e n t u r e t o suggest t h a t t h e y include with t h e P r o ceedings t h e n a m e s a n d addresses of their G r a n d M a s t e r a n d G r a n d Secretary. T h i s information is not contained in t h e Proceedings j u s t reviewed.
RHODE ISLAND —1925. Lodges, 40; m e m b e r s , 17,623; net gain, 591. T h e Semi-Annual Communication was held in Providence, N o v e m ber 17, 1924. T h e first order of business was t h e a n n o u n c e m e n t of t h e d e a t h of their G r a n d Tyler, W.'. B r o t h e r C H R I S T O P H E R H E N R Y A L E X A N D E R , aged eighty-six. T h e n e x t w a s t h e report of t h e C o m m i t t e e on J u r i s p r u d e n c e , r e ferring t o t h e address of t h e Grand M a s t e r s u b m i t t e d a t their A n n u a l C o m m u n i c a t i o n M a y 19, 1924.
280
CORRESPONDENCE—RHODE
ISLAND.
February,
Under t h e head of "Dual Membership" we quote the following from the report of this committee: The Grand Master states that " t h e records In the hands of the Grand Secretary relative t o membership do no include those members who hold dual membership in our bodies." At the Seml-Annual communication of Grand Lodge, November 19, 1923, Article VII, Sec. !', which provides for annual returns, was amended by adding to the information heretofore required, the following, " t h e names of those admitted holding dual membership, with the date thereof." Tt would seem that enforcement of this regulation as amended should give the information desired, without further legislation.
, Our readers can readily understand just what dual membership means when we consider the carelessness of a great many secretaries even in submitting their annual reports where dual membership is not recognized. Of course Rhode Island has no possible means of knowing what their actual membership is except in a general way. The Annual Communication was held in Providence, May 18, 1925.
HENRY C . DBXTEK, M . - . W . - . Grand Master.
The preface to the Grand Master's address covers less than twelve lines. Nothing of a constructive nature is submitted and reference is made only to the present Communication, the growth not being so large as it was a few years previous, and to the passing away of some of their brethren annually. He reports having attended the One Hundred Seventy-fifth Anniversary of their St. Johns Lodge No. 1 of Newport. During the year he attended a celebration at the Naval Training Station, the cornerstone of the Administration Building having been laid by the Grand Lodge June 5, 1819. They have a Masonic Home Fund of approximately $40,000.00 and in accordance with the legislation it was provided that " When the Fund shall amount to fifty thousand dollars a Special Committee shall be appointed by the Grand Master to determine whether the fund is suflBcient to establish a Masonic Home, and whether it is expedient to do so at that time, and report their findings to Grand Lodge." The Grand Master in commenting on this proposition had the following to say: We well know that fifty thousand dollars is a sum entirely inadequate to either build, establish or maintain a Masonic Home. It would therefore seem prudent for the present to amend the said paragraph by striking out the words "fifty thousand dollars'" and substitute in lieu thereof the words "one-hundred thousand dollars." I would recommend that the Committee on Jurisprudence be instructed to submit an amendment covering same either at tills Annual Communication or a t tbe Seml-Annual Communication of November next.
We regret to note the absence of our Grand Representative from this Communication. We notice that a report was made by two delegates attending the convention of the Masonic Service Association, which contained a recommendation that the Grand Lodge continue as a member. The
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report was referred to the Committee on Finance but we find nothing; in their report touching on the subject. The new Grand Master had the following to say concerning his, policy during the coming year: I have told the ofHcers with whom I expect to be associated and I tell youi that It is ever to be borne In mind that Grand Lodge is a Governing Body. I t is the supreme body, made up of representatives of all Lodges in this jurisdiction together with their Past Masters, wliich supreme body Is to make th© laws for the welfare and government of all the Lodges in the jurisdiction. By advice and counsel Grand Lodge is to assist the subordinate Lodges,, but primarily It is a Governing Body. ; To govern wisely with the least use of authority—to render justice tempered' with kindness—and to inspire progress after thoughtful coimsel will perhaps, summarize the general aims I have In view. We likewise quote a portion of his remarks under " My P l a n s : " ' In the first place a twelve months tenure of oflSce with three summer months practically inactive with the subordinate Lodges, is a very short period In wliich to formulate a constructive policy and make It effective in practice. The Seml-Annual meeting of Grand Lodge comes within three months of the time the Lodges convene for work In the Fall and the next regular meeting of Grand Lodge marks my retirement from ofHce, when I must give an account of my stewardship and I can only leave recommendations. We submit the foregoing for what it may be worth to our brethren who have had experience along these lines. There is no Report on Correspondence. HOWARD KNIGHT, M.-.W.-. Grand Master, Providence. S. PENROSE WILLIAMS, R . ' . W . - . Grand Secretary, Providence.
SASKATCHEWAN —1924. Lodges, 177; members, 12,796; net gain, 404. Prince Albert, June 18, 1924. J. W. MACNEILL, M.-. W.-.Giand Master. R.-. W.-. Brother W. M. MARTIN, our Grand Representative, was present. The Grand Master reports that one of their lodges, upon admission of one of the members that he had committed an unmasohic offense, suspended him. This action was referred to the Grand Master who declared the act of the lodge unconstitutional. We quote the following from the Grand Master's conclusion, believing it will be of interest to our readers: The twenty-four inch guage, which reminds us of the division of t h e day, and, incidentally, the divisions of our life, surely teaches us that work is the allotted task of man. To work for the harmony of, and foi-'the strength and support of our noble Institution: to work to perpetuate her usefulness: to work t o increase, develop and extend her benevolence: t o work to make manifest that Masonry is a system of morality: t o work t o prove that Masonry
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COBBESPONDENCE—SASKATCHEWAN.
February,
has an ideal, a goal, a purpose and that her position is now, and will, hereafter, •be justilied. How can that be done? How can that be attained? Masonry is a grouping of individuals, and it is by the growth and development of the separate persons, who, when united, form this Institution, that the Ideal for which the Institution stands, can be accomplished. I t is always lool<ing towards the development of the individual. To give him strength of mind and heart to meet the problems of daily life for lumself: to enable him to differ with his brother man, and yet to grant that man credit for equal sincerity witli lilmself: to differ with his brother Mason in the affairs of the world, in business, in politics, but to leave those differences at the door of the Lodge and meet him on the level inside its tiled recesses: also to enable him to cut loose from all offendings which tends to lessen liis prestige and influence. In short, she teaches him that "self-reverence, self-knowledge, self•control, these three alone, lead life to sovereign power." In these days of pleasure-seeking I would finally appeal to you, my brethren, •as the sane and sensible portion of the community, to spread the doctrine that the middle chamber, where the wages are allotted, is not a chamber of pleasure, but one of service. Let me impress upon you that the watchword of this Institution should be duty and service: that the building of a Masonic character and of a Masonic personality is not to bo attained by pleasure-seeking, but by work, and by the performance of the duty that lies before us, and that it is in •our everyday work that our Masonic influence is going to be most felt, and that • the performance of our everyday task is a Masonic duty, to be done efficiently, cheerfully and faithfully. Let me impress this upon you with all the earnestness a t my command— •be not envious of the pleasure-seeker: his wages will be unsatisfying. A greater truth was never said than that you cannot have success and a good time too. [t is only by diligence and perseverance, by the conftant use of the working 'tools, will we attain to that physical, moral, spiritual and intellectual status which will entitle us to the approbation of the Great Architect rf the Universe. "The world is the workshop, we are, my brethren, the workmen. The most imj)ortant work is nod doing the big, spectacular things, as so many think, but the common-place dutfes which confront us daily. B r o t h e r T A T E , t h e G r a n d Secretary, h a s t h e following t o s a y In concluding his excellent r e p o r t : I t goes without saying that much of the work of the office is of a character that cannot be brought Tiitliin the scope of a formal report. My ideal has been to make the office a "Clearing House" for Masonry in Saskatchewan and if, in your opinion, my objective has in any measure been attained during the past year, I assure you that any assistance I have been able to give in the way of advice or information has been cheerfully and gladly rendered.
The Report on Correspondence contains a review of our 1924 Proceedings. D. A. KINGSBURY, M . - . W / . Grand Master. (No address given.) W. B. TATE, R . - . W / . Grand Secretary. (No address given.)
Next Annual, Saskatoon, June 17, 1925.
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CORRESPONDENCE—SASKATCHEWAN.
283
SASKATCHEWAN —1925. Lodges, 179; members, 12,969; net gain, 173. Saskatoon, June 17, 1925. D. A. KINGSBURY, M.-.W.-. Grand Master. R.'. W.\ Brother W. M. MARTIN, our Grand Representative, was present. We are pleased to quote the following from the preface to the Grand Master's address: Those of us who have attended these Annual Communications for years have come with pleasant anticipations of renewing old friendships and strengthening anew the attachments formed. But each year there are many new^ faces seen and to those of you who are newcomers, active officers of our Constituent Lodges, we would especially offer a cordial welcome. We trust that you will take part in and be helped by our deliberations, so that your own zeal for Masonry, which has brought you here, may be increased and you may be even better fitted to inspire the Brethren of your various Lodges on your return. U n d e r " D e c i s i o n s " we a r e pleased t o q u o t e t h e following, as t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s ruling is so u n u s u a l a n d n o t i n accord w i t h t h e w a y w e h a n d l e m a t t e r s of t h i s k i n d : A complaint was received from Sharon Lodge No. 170 a t Bateman regarding the initiation of one ROBERT EARLEY by Morse Lodge No. 93 at Morse. Upon investigation it was found that the candidate was clearly the material of Sharon Lodge. 1 instructed the Grand Secretary to inform the brethren of Morse Lodge that the Brother was an irregularly made Mason and that a dispensation must be obtained to heal the irregularity of his being made in Morse Lodge while the material of Sharon Lodge and as I believed the invasion of jurisdiction was unintentional I only required that they remit to Sharon Lodge through the Grand Secretary's office one-half of the initiation fees paid by the Brother. He had the following to say under the subject of "Lodge Rooms:" I would here lilce to emphasize what has often been urged by others regarding the urgent need for Lodge Homes owned by the Craft and used exclusively by them. The sense of being a t home, promotes comfort and will aid very materially in keeping up the interest of t h e members and promoting regular attendance. Both Norquay and Glenside are sliining. examples of what may be done by the forethought and unselfish labor of the brethren. Decoration and furnishings need not be elaborate or costly but such as will give the "homey" feeling. This feeling inspires the officers and enables them to do their very best work and so impress the candiate entering the portals that he shall become an active and enthusiastic Mason., His reference to equipping lodge rooms in a comfortable and home like manner is of great importance and a lodge can well afford to make the place of meeting one of comfort as well as a place to acquire true Masonic knowledge. We quote in full his words under the head of " Opportunities and Responsibilities:"
284
CORRESPONDENCE—SASKATCHEWAN.
February,
Brethren, we have been created free will agents and when brought into our Lodges we still retain our freedom. We are taught many valuable lessons and are free to choose to obey. No one can compel obedience but too many take the vows lightly and do not seriously consider their responsibilities. We have great and splendid traditions, to which we refer with pride. United we have great power. We should do our utmost t o maintain these lofty ideals, t o use our powers in doing the worthwhile great things. Our country needs the leavening influence of our teachings so that the home may be held sacred; that laws may be observed and that we as a people may grow up a mighty nation, cherishing the fundamental beliefs, Fatherhood of GOD and Brotherhood of Man. One writer has said, " The home is the most powerful agency in the development of Character." We believe that all our interests and activities should centre in the home There is a decided tendency to ignore this fact and throw on other institutions, i.e., the school and the church, the responsibilities that are Inherent In the home. Let me say that no institution, however well organized, can take the place of the home. This involves definite responsibilities on those who. of their own free will and accord enter into a covenant for home building. Some of these responsibilities are obvious and are for the most part readily and cheerfully discharged. " H e that provideth not for his own is worse than an infldel." Every Mason will admit that. Other responsibilities are not so readily admitted among men. They ought to be deflnitely accepted by. the Fraternity. The home cannot exist and function, no matter how well the material side be looked after, unless it be established in the beauty and strength of morality. At our entrance into Masonry, we wtro given a white lambskin to impress upon us the necessity for a pure life. Elsewhere wo are taught t o hold sacred the home life of our brethren and to revere pure and holy womanhood. These obligations must be regarded as sacred. Every child has the right to demand to be well born, not perhaps in the sense of blue-blooded ancestory, but in not having to start life under handicap of physical or mental disability, due to the lapse of a parent who declined to take his responsibilities seriously. The child has the right to expect to be reared in a good home, not necessarily a luxurious home, but a home in which the "Charities of father, son and brother" are hold dear. As the child grows we should see to it that the school he niust attend keeps ever before him lofty ideals of service and citizenship so that the characters of those who presently are to do the world's work and shape the world's life, may be established in uprightness and integrity. Thus may we do our part to establish the nation, not onl.'i in the strength but In t h e beauty of true morality.
They hold district meetings quite similar to our own, the state being divided into sixteen districts, while ours is composed of seventyfive. In the Report on Correspondence we find a fraternal reference t o our 1924 Proceedings. GILBERT SWAIN, M . ' . W . - . G r a n d Master, Saskatoon. W. B . TATE, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Regina.
Next Annual, Regina, June 16, 1926.
1925-26.
COBBESPONDENCE—SCOTLAND.
285
SCOTLAND —1925. Lodges, ; members, ; net gain, . At the Annual Communication held in Edinburgh on December 3, 1924, they were honored with the presence of His Royal Highness, T H E PRINCE OP WALES.
In receiving this distinguished visitor, the
Grand Master spoke as follows: Right Worshipful and Noble Sir, the brethren have already given you a token of welcome in the enthusiasm with which your visit here inspires them, but they have left it to me to express in a few words the greeting which they would like to convey to you. First, we welcome you as our rightful and honourable Prince—(applause)—a most distinguished member of our Koyal House, and we, as Freemasons, yield to no other association of citizens in our loyalty to our noble and honoured King. (Applause.) But our tribute to-day. Sir, is one more of personal loyalty and personal affection to yourself. (Applause.) We esteem you as being a pattern and an example of what a good Freemason should be. (Applause.) You have already undertaken official duties in the Grand Lodge of England, both in the Grand Lodge and recently as Provincial Grand Master of one of the Provinces. But it is not particularly to those official duties that I wish to refer to-day. I t is to the character and the abounding energy which you always display on behalf of others less happily placed than yourself, the sportsmanship, the good comradeship, and above all. If I may say so, Sir, your smile. (Applause.) Those characteristics have endeared you t o every heart in the whole of the British Empire, and we look up to you as an example of a Freemason, a leader whom we love to follow. (Applause.) This is your first visit to us as Scottish Freemasons, but it is not the first visit which has been made by one of your name and one of your title. Several of your predecessors have visited us and held office In this Grand Lodge, but I would refer only in that respect to your honoured and respected grandfather—(applause) —who, in 1870, as EDWAHD, Prince of Wales, undertook the responsibility of Patron of the Scottish Craft. Sir, it is not my privilege to-day to hand over to you the mallet of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, but we look forward to that day—perhaps it may be my successor in office who will have that privilege. (Applause.) There is, however, one other visit to which I would refer, not from its similarity but from its contrast with the proceedings of to-day. Over 600 years ago there was a visit of an EDWAKD, a King and a Prince, EDWARD the First, if I may use the Latin phraseology, "EDWARDUS Primus MalleuF Scotorum"—(laughter)—which being interpreted is, "EDWARD the First, the Hammer of the Scots." Sir, in those days it was a BRUCE who had the privilege and the opportunity of being leader of the Scots. (Applause.) To-day before you lies his sword, an emblem which has been handed down throiigh generations of my family as an honoured and treasured heirloom. (Applause.) That sword stands as a symbol and an emblem of what we in Scotland always look up to and admire in our Great King of those times, a King who gave us freedom and who gave us the Scottish characteristic • of the privilege of being Independent. (Applause.) Sir. 1 have no thoughts of wielding this sword against the EDWARD Prince who comes hee to-day. (Laughter.) We remember with honour and pride the battle-cryr which has been Immortalised by our national poet — "Wha, for SCOTLAND'S King and Law, FREEDOM'S sword will strongly draw; Freeman stand, or Freeman fa'. Let him follow me!" I raise this sword once more, an emblem of freedom, truth, and honour. In which you have associated yourself so closely with many of your fellow
286
CORRESPONDENCE—SCOTLAND.
February.
subjects, particularly during the events of the late War—(applause)—and by this emblem I think we may be encouraged in the paths of duty. (Applause) And with loyal hearts we may join, one and all, in a slight variation of some other lines in that same song— "Now's the day, andnow's the hour!' See approach PKINCE EDWARD'S power
Peace and harmony!
(Applause.)
Sir, it is not my privilege (and I am sure you would not wish to take it from me) that I should band over to your special keeping this sword—(laughter) —but in place of that I wish in the name of Grand Lodge, the brethren assembled here, to hand over to you this Jewel of Honorary Membership of our Lodge, and I now ask you to allow me to invest you, and to greet you as a Brother amongst us. (Applause.) The Grand Master Mason then placed roimd His Royal Highness's neck a Jewel bearing the following inscription:—"Presented as a token of Honorary Membership by tho Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Scotland to Right Worshipful Brother H. R. H. T H E PUINCE OF WALE.S, K . G . . K. T., etc., Prince and Great Steward of Scotland, on the occasion of his visit. 3rd December 192'»." The Grand Master Mason—"Brethren, I would ask you as loyal Freemasons, to salute our newly-made Honorary Memi^cr with the sign of Master Masons." , The brethren then saluted His Royal Highness as Master Masons. Brother H. R. H. T H E PniN'CE OF WALES, then said—"Most Worshipful Grand Master Mason, Grand Wardens, and brethren, I thank you very sincerely for the honour t h a t you have conferred on mo to-night in making me an Honorary Member of the Grand Lodge of Scotland—(applause)—and also for the very kind words that you. Most Worshipful Grand Master Mason, have addressed to me, and for the jewel that you have just given me. 1 feel that it is a great privilege that I should be hero with you to-night at the installation of your successor as Grand Master Mason of Scotland—(applause)—and have my Honorary Membership conferred on me by you, who have occupied this most honourable position for the past three years." (Applause.) The Rt. Hon. T H E EARL OF STAIR, M . ' . W . - . Grand Master. DAVID R E I D , J. P., R.-.W.-.Grand Secretary, Edinburgh.
SCOTLAND —1925. Lodges, ; members, ; net gain, — Quarterly Communication held in Edinburgh, May 7, 1925. The R t . Hon. T H E EARL O F STAIR, M.-.W.-.Grand Master.
The first business transacted was the presentation of a Past Grand Master's jewel to the retiring Grand Master, Brother LORD ELGIN.
In
presenting this decoration the Grand Master had the following to say: The Most Worshipful Grand Master Mason—"Brethren, the first business to-day is to carry out your instructions given a t the last Grand Lodge Meeting, and that is to present a Past Grand Master's Jewel to Brother LORD ELGIN, our Immediate Past Grand Master. (Applause.) I t is a great pleasure to me to do this, but it would be a greater pleasure to see somebody else doing it—(laughter)—in many ways. LORD ELG.N. as I have said before, during the three years In which he occupied the post of Grand Master Mason, set a standard which I
1925-26.
COBRESPONDENCESOUTH
AUSTRALIA.
287
think is a t least as high, if not higher, than any that has been set by ills predecessors. (Applause.) And therefore I think nobody is more thorouglily fitted to be adorned with the Jewel which I now wish to place round his neck, and we hope we will see it there for many years to come. (Applause.) In doing so, I think I should like on behalf of aU the Freemasons under the Scottish Constitution, to congratulate him on the honour which the King has recently conferred on him. (Applause.) His Majesty could hardly have chosen anybody to represent him more suited than one who has been tested in the way in which ouv Past Grand Master has been." (Applause.) T h e jewel is described in t h e following l a n g u a g e : [The Jewel which was supplied by Brother ARTHUR J. EAMSAY, Grand Jeweller, is made with 18-carat gold back and platinum front, set with diamonds and sapphires. In the centre is the figure of Saint ANDREW with Cross in front, modelled in relief of 18-carat gold, set on a concave dark blue enamel ground. The connecting chains are of platinum, and the compasses, square, and segment of circle of 18-carat gold, with the points of the compasses and the blade of the square platinum fronted. The following inscription is engraved on the back:— " T h e Right Honourable THEEARL OF ELGIN AND KINCARDINE, C . M . G . ,
D. L., J. P., Grand Master Mason of Scotland, 1922-23-24."] Further than the above no special business was transacted except reports from the Provincial Grand Masters. The Rt. Hon. T H E EARL OF STAIR, M.-.W.-.Grand Master. DAVID REID, J. P., R.-.W.-.Grand Secretary, Edinburgh.
SOUTH AUSTRALIA —1925. Lodges, 112; members, 11,727; net gain, 676. The half-yearly Communication was held October 15, 1924. The new Temple to be erected is to cost £117,987. We doubt not that when the building is completed it will be a credit to our South Australia brethren. The next half-yearly Communication was held October 15, 1925. We are pleased to quote the following under the head of "Undue Publicity" from the Grand Master's address: And now, brettiren, I wish to make a remark or two upon quite a different topic. I t has seemed to me that reports of Lodge meetings and gatherings immediately connected with Lodge meetings appear with greater frequency in the non-Masonic press than they did. This, In my view, is wholly undesirable. (Hear, hear.) There is, when reports are supplied t o what in this connection I may term the profane press, a very grave risk that matters may be communicated which, for a Mason to commimicate, would be a Masonic offence. I trust that W. M.'s wiU do what they can to discourage such reports. It is not in this Jurisdiction alone that attention has been called to this tendency. I n 1918 the Board of General Purposes of the Grand Lodge of England expressed its grave disapprobation of it. A communication wliich may with propriety be made to a Masonic journal may yet be wholly inappropriate for the public press, cause misimderstandlng, and injure the Craft. (Hear, hear.)
288
CORRESPONDENCE—SovTH
CAROLINA.
February.
Royal Arch Masonry receives the following commendation from the Grand Master: Since my election as Grand Master 1 have taken, on the advice of M .-.W.-. Brother PIPER, another Degree. I have become a Royal Arch Mason and (enabled by the courtesy of my private Chapter and t h e regulations of that Order) I have been installed as Supreme head of the Royal Arch. In that, I followed the example of my predecessors in the offlce of Grand Master and the advice of M.'.W.". Brother PIPER. I am convinced their example and the advice of M :.y} :. Brother PIPEB were good. I t is well that the links between the Orders should be maintained. I recall how, in this room in 1919, M.'.W.-. Brother GRUNDY advised every Master Mason to take that degree and advised, still more strongly, brethren who are preparing for the Master's Chair to take that degree. I, brethren, as strongly advise those brethren who can give the extra time—net very great—to attendance at Royal Arch Chapters to take it. M.'. W.'. Brother GRUNDY gave good reasons for his advice. I shall not repeat them: they are recorded in the proceedings of this Grand Lodge, but I would add one other. I am convinced that by becoming Companions of that Order you tend to consolidate the forces of Freemasonry. Members of the Private Chapter are usually drawn from different Lodges. In their Chapters they work together. Parochial isolation is not possible and the lesson is quickly learnt that loyalty to the Lodge—the unit—can exist with loyalty and effort on behalf of the sum total—the Great Order to which we belong.
The Annual Communication was held April 15, 1925. Justice THOMAS SLANEY POOLE, M.-.W.". Grand Master.
At the time for election of Grand Master the Deputy nominated the present Grand Master, who was elected amidst the applause of his brethren. Their Grand Master occupies a government position, being acting Chief Justice. In the Review of Correspondence we firid a review of our 1924 Proceedings. At the conclusion of the review the writer refers to the undersigned as R.'. W.'. Brother EVANS. We have no objections to the name "EvANS," but prefer to make no change at this time of life. Justice THOMAS SLANEY POOLE, M.'.W.'.Grand Master, Adelaide. CHARLES R . J. GLOVER, R . ' . W . ' . Grand Secretary, Adelaide.
SOUTH CAROLINA—1925. Lodges, 287; members, 29,440; net gain, 723. Charleston, March 11, 1925. CHARLES K . CHREITZBERG, M.-. W.V
Grand Master. What is termed the "Minutes of an Occasional Lodge" was heldl in the city of Charleston, November 21, 1924, to make " D r . ROBERTWILSON a Mason at sight." We are unable to make out from theminutes whether this was really a Communication of the Grand Lodge or one of the local lodges; however, it seems that most of the Grand Officers filled the various stations, but as officers of a lodge and not t h e Grand Lodge.
1925-26.
CORRESPONDENCE—SOUTH
CAROLINA.
289
The minutes state that a lodge of Master Masons was closed in short form, yet there is nothing in the minutes to show that a ilodge of any kind had ever been opened. Be that as it may, the brethren then proceeded to confer the First Degree on their candidate, although there is nothing to show that a lodge of Entered Apprentices was ever opened. The minutes then state that a lodge of Entered Apprentices was closed in short form and a lodge of Fellow Crafts opened in short form and the candidate was then passed to the Degree of a Fellow Craft. This degree was then closed and lodge reopened (whatever that is) •on the Master's Degree. To the readers of this report the writer can only say that so far as he is concerned he can furnish no information as to what is meant by a "short form" in Symbolic Masonry, neither can he explain why this particular candidate was selected to receive the three degrees in this manner. We now rise to ask what is the Masonic standing of their candidate? Where is his membership? How can his name be legally entered on the roll of any lodge or Grand Lodge? We again note the absence of our Grand Representative from this Gommunication although it was held in the city which was his last known address at this office. The Grand Master in extending a welcome had the following to say: I particularly welcome the representatives from the small Lodges,—those Lodges like the " Lodge over SIMPKINS' Store," which are dispensing true Masonic light and knowledge without the embellishments of ornate fittings, gorgeous robes, and illustrated lectures. LINCOLN said " G O D must love the common people—^He made so many of them." Masonry loves, and sWnds by, and depends upon, country Lodges. Masonry, also, "expects every man to do hia duty," and the Lodge that works and strives to fulfill its destiny under adverse circumstances and in unattractive surroundings is the Lodge in which Masonry thrives.
The chain letter fraud received attention at the hands of the Grand Master, and in commenting on the subject he has the following to say: I am depending on the good sense of the representatives here assembled to tell the boys back home to disregard these letters. I t is a slur on the fraternity to think we are simple enough to believe good luck will follow obedience to this hair-brained scheme. Masons are not superstitious and are not to be fooled by any such absurd nonsense.
Under the head of "Circular Letters" we quote the following: I consistently refused to approve the circulation of begging letters. Quite a number of these came to me from outside the State, and two or three from our own members. In two cases. Lodges asked aid in rebuilding on account of Are. They carried no insurance because the rate was too high. My position was that It was a matter of cold-blooded business. The Lodge deliberately decided to carry its own risk, and, therefore, when a loss occurred, it was not fair to distribute this loss over the entire Jurisdiction.
290
CORRESPONDENCE—SOUTH
CAROLINA.
February,
The Grand Master granted his special dispensation for a lodge to receive the application of a young man who was not yet tv.'enty-onc years old. The matter went to the Committee on Jurisprudence who very properly disapproved of his action. We often wonder why Grand Masters will make mistakes of this kind when they are surrounded by experienced brethren who would put them right if they were consulted. Mistakes of this kind do not reflect a great deal of credit upon the administration of a Grand Master. M.-. W.-. Brother JAMES L . MICHIE, one of the most careful and
studious writers of the Reports on Correspondence, had the following to say in his special report concerning the so-called "Grand Lodge Oriental Santiago De Cuba:" We have examined the voluminous papers submitted witli this Application, and find nothing therein tliat would justify us in recommending that Fraternal Recognition be extended to this so-called Grand Body. We find no force in the attempt to show an analogy between a Cuban Province and an American State. Cuba is not a Federal Government, the Cuban Republic is more like the French Republic, divided into Subordinate Provinces, not into Sovereign States, or Commonwealths. The Grand Lodge of the Island of Cuba terms the Grand Lodge Oriental a schismatic Body, and has warned Grand Lodges from extending Fraternal Recognition. The Lodges that organized tlie Grand Lodge Oriental formerly owed allegiance to the Grand Lodge of Cuba, and claim to have withdrawn therefrom, and have set up a Grand Lodge of their own. We are in Fraternal Relations with the Grand.Lodge of Cuba, we think it would be an act of discourtesy to extend Fraternal Recognition to the Grand Lodge Oriental.
M . \ W.\ Brother JAMES L. MICHIE again submits the usual Report on Correspondence which includes a review of our 1924 Proceedings. We note that Brother MICHIE stated in his report that he would refer the remarks of the writer of this report concerning the absence of our Grand Representative from their Grand Lodge to their Grand Master. In view of the fact that the representative was again absent from their Grand Lodge we wonder whether Brother MICHIE forgot to report the fact to the Grand Master or whether the Grand Master did not consider it of sufficient importance to give the subject any attention. Brother MICHIE is well aware that the writer of this report is of the opinion that the whole Grand Representative system is a snare and delusion, an office without any special honor and taken as a whole is a huge joke. CHARLES K . CHREITZBERG, M.-.W.-. Grand Master, Rock Hill. O. FRANK HART, R.-.W.-.Grand Secretary, Columbia. JAMES L . MICHIE, P.'. G . \ M.'. , Correspondent, Darlington.
Next Annual, Charleston, March 10, 1926.
1925-26.
CoBBESPONDBNCE—SOUTH DAKOTA.
291
SOUTH DAKOTA —1925, Lodges, 172; members, 19,296; net gain, 331. Sioux Falls, June 9, 1925.
FREDERICK TREON, M.-.W.'.Grand
Master. Several "Occasional Grand Lodges" were held during the year for the purpose of laying corner-stones and constituting lodges, as well as three for the purpose of conducting the last sad rites over the remains of their Past Grand Masters, M.'.W.'. Brothers JAMES LEWIS, ROBERT HENRY MCCAUGHEY and FRANK ADELBERT BROWN.
At the Annual Communication the Grand Master submitted the usual address, from which we are pleased to quote the following: For more than a quarter of a century our beloved Grand Secretary has lived here, and under his personal guidance and efforts we have seen a set of records built up, and a Grand Lodge library grow, until it stands fourth in size, of its kind, in the world. And through his untiring endeavors has been built a library and office building, the second of its kind in the United States, at so small an expenditure of money that I am sure it could not be duplicated'for a much larger amount. The generous gift of the lots by Sioux Falls' masons first made the building possible—a splendid fireproof structure, that mil ever remain an honor to this grand body, and a credit to the arcliitect. Commodious and so arranged as to care for the future growth of the library it is a thing of beauty, magniflcient yet without ostentation. You have seen it. Examine It again! I t is yours. Your small assessments have paid for the structure.
He varies a little from the trodden paths of Grand Masters in that he criticises the voters of this country who fail to exercise their right of franchise. He even goes to the extent of stating that in 1920 in their own state the number of votes cast was 182,237 and there were 139,646 slackers. He further states that in 1896 eighty per cent of the eligible voters went to the polls and voted; in 1900, seventy-three per cent; in 1908, sixty-six per cent; in 1912, sixty-two per cent; in 1920 less than fifty per cent. We old timers have always preached the doctrine in Freemasonry that neither politics nor religion should enter our lodge room. Possibly the above rnay not be considered politics; however, the criticism calls for some comment and to the writer the fault lies in the fact that the professional politicans and the public press have the affairs of our country so thoroughly in hand that a large per cent of the voters are discouraged and feel that all their efforts put forth at the polls against these two elements are of no consequence. The writer of this report, however, is not guilty of neglect of his duty in this respect as he always votes at every election unless away from home. Under "Recommendations" the Grand Master suggested that lodges in college cities be required to obtain the consent of the home lodge where students live or have been living before receiving or balloting upon petitions. Strange as it may seem the Committee on Jurisprudence disapproved of his recommendation.
292
CORRESPONDENCE—SOUTH
DAKOTA.
February,
Their faithful Grand Secretary, Brother GEORGE A. PETTIGREW, presents another of his interesting reports. Under the head of " Degrees by Courtesy" we quote the entire story, knowing that it will be of great interest to our Kansas readers: Commencing soon after the close of the World War, there has been what we term in the west a "milling a b o u t " of the people, resulting in many requests for conferring degrees by courtesy, both on outside Lodges and Lodges in this jurisdiction. The correspondence relative to such matters was turned over to me by the Grand Master, with the result that forty-eight requests have been made to confer degrees b y outside Grand Jurisdictions, and twenty-live to receive degrees in this state. " T h e conferring of degrees for another lodge as a matter of courtesy is a custom which has traditional approval, and manifests the cordial and brotherly fraternalism wliich happily characterizes the friendly relations existing between Grand Lodges. However, the reasons why it is wise to insist that a man receive his first degree in the lodge which has elected him are so self-evident and convincing that no discourtesy may be discovered in such a regulation." Past Grand Master WOOD of Illinois brought up this subject and to support his recommendation presented the following: "First, the identification of a man coming into a strange community is a difflcult matter, especially in the larger cities and towns of the state. Before a candidate has received t h e first degree he cannot prove himself to the lodge; when he has received some of the work the matter of identification is simplified. Second, too often a lodge is petitioned for the degrees by a man about to change Ids residence to another town, solely for the benefit that may be derived from his status as a Mason In the new locality. If the change of residence Is permanent, certainly it Is worth while to wait the required length of time and havo his membership originate in the lodge wliere he lives. If the change is temporary I fail t o see what inconvenience might arise from waiting for the candidate's return to be initiated. Third, if a candidate were to receive his first degree in a lodge in a distant community or in another state it woifid materially curtail the right of objection which rests with the members of the lodge electing him." The Grand Lodges of California, Wyoming, Indiana, Colorado, New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania have laws wUch do not permit the conferring of the Entered Apprentice degree by any Lodge other than the one electing the candidate, either for their own or outside Grand Jurisdictions. I would recommend that a law of this nature be adopted by this Grand Lodge. The brethren of South Dakota have just completed what they term a " G r a n d Lodge Library"-and from the picture, which is made a l-art of these Proceedings, we have no doubt it is a magnificient structure and a credit t o the Masons of that jurisdiction. We take exceptions, however, to the following words taken from the first paragraph of the report of the committee dealing with this subject: "There is but one other of its kind in the world t h a t is used solely for Grand Offices and Library; the one at Cedar Rapids, Iowa." This statement is rather surprising to the writer in view of the publicity which our Masonic Grand Lodge Building has received at the hands of the writers of the Reports on Correspondence throughout the world, to say nothing of the excellent pictures of both the exterior and interior of our building as shown in our 1918 Proceedings. Kansas claims to have the most ornate Masonic Grand Lodge Building in the world—absolutely fire-proof; indeed, those who are competent t o judge claim it is the
1925-26.
CORRESPONDENCE—SOUTH
DAKOTA.
293
only actual classic structure west of Washington, D. C. In view of these facts the writer is somewhat surprised at the statement of this committee. One should always be siire of their grounds when they make a statement of this kind which takes in the entire globe. Brother JAMES B. VAUGHN, our Grand Representative, was present a t this Communication. Through the report of the Committee on Jurisprudence it was decided that a petition for affiliation could only be received from a resident of the state of South Dakota. While this is not the law of Kansas, yet the writer is of the opinion that it is a mighty good one and should be practiced in every other Grand Jurisdiction. As a clincher on requests for conferring the Entered Apprentice Degree on elected candidates in other lodges, the following law was adopted: SEC. 183. No Lodge of this state shall confer the Entered Apprentice degree upon any candidate, except those elected by it to lecelve the degrees. A Lodge may, at the duly authenticated request of a constituent Lodge of this, or any other Grand Jurisdiction, confer the Fellow Craft or Master Mason degree, either or both, upon a candidate of the requesting Lodge. M.'. W.'. Brother CHARLES L . BROCKWAY again prepared the Review
of Proceedings and we are grateful for a report of our 1925 journal. He refers to the recommendation of our Grand Master concerning the burial service; however, the Grand Master's suggestions received favorable comment at the hands of a special committee, but they were not approved by the Grand Lodge. Therefore, we will have no change in our present burial Ritual. The Grand Master referred particularly to portions of our ceremony which might be omitted where inclement weather or other conditions made it expedient to shorten the service. Brother BROCKWAY'S report as usual, is full of gems of Masonic knowledge and we only regret that space will not permit of our quoting from other reviews than that of Kansas. JOHN K . KUTNEWSKY, M.-.W.-.Grand Master, Redfield. GEORGE A. PETTIGREW, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Sioux Falls. CHARLES L . BROCKWAY, P.-.G.-. M . - . , Correspondent, Sioux Palls.
Next Annual, Yankton, June 8, 1926.
294
CORRESPONDENCE—TENNESSEE.
February,
TASMANIA —1925. Lodges, 40; members, 3,346; net gain, 131. Annual Communication held at Launceston, February 28, 1925. A brief report was made by the Board of General Purposes in which they referred to the death of M.-. W.-. Brother R. S. SCOTT and R.-. W.-. Brother JOHN HAMILTON, Grand Secretary.
We quote the following few words of interest from the Grand Master's address: It is gratifying to hear that in some Lodges a genuine attempt has been made, in accordance with the wishes I expressed, to afford the Brethren instruction and enlightenment in Masonic history and the aims of oiu: Institution, apart from the Ritual ceremonials; no doubt these efforts have been greatly appreciated, and i t is sincerely hoped that such laudable endeavours will be continued, and the practice become more general than a t present. HENRY L . D ' E M D E N , M.-.W.-.Grand Master. W. H. STRUTT, R . - . W . ' . Grand Secretary, Hobart.
TENNESSEE —1925. Lodges, 473; members, 47,658; net gain, 2,314. Nashville, January 28,1925. HOWELL E . JACKSON, M.-.W.-.Grand
Master. We are pleased t o note the presence at this Communication of our Grand Representative, Brother HALLUM. W . GOODLOE.
As an introduction to his address the Grand Master has the following to say: Another year has passed with its sowings and its reapings; its cradle songs and its funeral dirges; its sunshine and its shadow. The Great Architect of the Universe has been very good to us, his cUldren. He has blessed us and prospered us. We have been spared many ills and sorrows and calamities that might have been visited upon us and have received manifold blessings from His beneficent goodness Few of His children deserve the many good tilings which He so graciously and freely bestows upon us all.
The Grand Master evidently subscribed to the old custom of "making Masons at sight" as he reports having "healed by proclamation a brother irregularly Passed and Raised." He also ruled in another case where a brother had received the Third Degree upon request before the original lodge had elected him to receive that degree—and in order to heal this irregular act he required the original lodge to elect the brother to receive the Third Degree and then reobligate and Raise him. Dealing with the Masonic Service Association the Grand Master recommended that their Grand Lodge withdraw from this organization. The subject was referred to the Committee on Ways and Means;
1925-2B.
CORRESPONDENCE—TENNESSEE.
295
however, before they submitted their report the Grand Lodge was addressed by the Executive Secretary of the Association, Brother RANDALL, which no doubt resulted in influencing the committee in
reporting that they continue their membership and recommended t h a t an appropriation be made for that purpose. We are still of the opinion that the carpet-bagging system, whether it be the Masonic Service Association or not, is out of harmony with the dignity and underlying high principles of the Craft. It requires ten pages of the Proceedings to enroll the rulings of the Grand Master. This is only equaled by the three hundred fortysix decisions rendered by the Grand Master of Texas. Under the head of "Washington Memorial" the Grand Master has the following to say: It has taken us five years to raise $8,000.00, about eighteen per cent of our quota or less than one-fifth. At this rate it will take us over twenty years longer to raise the balance. Let us give our attention to this subject and devise ways and means to raise our quota and discharge oiur obligation in this matter within a reasonable length of time.
We presume this is one of the so-called higher educational propositions and the Grand Lodge of Tennessee must raise the remaining eighty-two per cent regardless of any other matters which may require financial assistance in conducting the affairs of their Grand Lodge. Under "Masonic Funerals" the Grand Master has the following to say: Several complaints have come to me through the year about the lack of attendance of the brethren a t Masonic funerals. One Lodge reported that; even after every member of the Lodge had been notified for the purpose of conducting the funeral of a deceased brother, only two members showed up, the "Worshipful Master and the Tiler. This is a deplorable example of the bad condition which seems to be prevalent throughout the state. Our members generally fail to pay any attention to calls for attendance upon the burial of a former brother. It-is an act of Charity and Brotherly Love, about which we talk so much, to see that a departed brother is interred decently. If we continue to disregard our duty in this respect, it would be better to discontinue entirely Masonic burial services than to have them so neglected or performed in such sUpshod manner, with so few Masons attending, as thus to bring the Fraternity into disrepute. i I have no doubt but that this subject has been brought to the attention of the Fraternity from time to time, but even so, I again urge every Mason in the state, even if at some sacrifice to himself, to do his duty in paying the last sad rites over the remains of a departed brother Mason. ;
The Grand Lodge was honored with the presence of M.'.W.'. Brother JAMES S . MACEWING and R.-.W.-. Brother JAMES A. OVAS,
Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Manitoba. Half-tones of these distinguished brethren are included in these Proceedings. The Committee on Jurisprudence sustained the Grand Master ih his ruling that a Masonic hall should not be used for a meeting of the Ku Klux Klan. Exception was taken to this portion of their report
296
COBBESPONDENCE—TEXAS.
February.
and it was amended by a motion to non-concur in the report and that the ruling having reference to this subject be stricken from the records. We note, however, it was not stricken from the records. The Report on Correspondence was presented by M.'.W.'.Brother HENRY A. CHAMBERS and he includes a review of our 1924 Proceedings.
We desire, however, to correct his statement that the Special Address was delivered by the Grand Master as it was prepared and delivered as usual by W.'. Brother ROBERT P. MCCOLLOCH, who has rendered a
similar service for the Grand Lodge for several years. CHARLES W . POLK, M.-.W.-.Grand Master, Millington. STITH M . CAIN, R.-.W.". Grand Secretary, Nashville. HENRY A. CHAMBERS, P . - . G . ' . M . - . , Correspondent, Chattanooga.
Next Annual, Nashville, January 27, 1926.
TEXAS —1924. Lodges, 967; members, 128,880; net gain, 6,001. Waco, December 3,1924. Gus A. BRANDT, M.-. W.-. Grand Master. An address of welcome was extended by the mayor. Brother THOMAS P. STONE.
We note in his remarks a reference to an organi-
zation known as the Certificate Men's Association. We do not know what it is all about as this is the first time the writer has ever heard of it; We presume, however, that it is one of the numerous societies predicating their membership on Masonry. We note the absence of our Grand Representative from this Communication. We notice the Grand Lodge was "duly opened" instead of opened in "Ample F o r m " which is the general custom. We notice that one of their Past Grand Masters was not unmindful of his official duties as Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of Valle de Mexico as he addressed the Grand Lodge in their behalf, conveying the greetings to the brethren. The above is an echo from the turmoil which resulted in Texas recognizing this so-called Grand Lodge instead of what we, as Kansas Masons term, the only legitimate Grand Lodge, known as the York Grand Lodge of Mexico; in other words we consider the Grand Lodge Valle de Mexico a spurious and illegal organization. From the preface to the Grand Master's address we are pleased to quote the following: To beUeve that one could discharge all the duties that fall to the office of Grand Master, exacting and multitudinous as they are, without error and without fault, would be to expect that which is not to be obtained in t U s world. Couseciuently it is with a full appreciation of my many shortcomings, with a realization of the fact that in many instances I may have only approximated the truth, t h a t a t times an Incomplete understanding may have veiled the motive of an act which to me seemed clear, that I respectfully submit the following report
1925-26.
CORRESPONDENCE—TEXAS
.
297
for your considerate action, knowing that none expect to find here that u n faltering and consummate justice that we may expect to see administered ia. the Court of GOD'S High Chancery. We felt a little amused at the Grand Master's remarks under t h e head of "Proceedings to be Read in Lodges." We tried this in Kansasmany years and experience taught us that it was a waste of energy and printer's ink. If a lodge has a REAL Master, and as we sometimes say in Kansas " a n honest to GoD Master," he will read the more important transactions of the Grand Lodge to his brethren without being called upon to do so by the Grand Lodge. As evidence of "side-stepping" the ancient regulations concerning physical qualifications we quote the following under the subject of "Physical Defects of Candidates:" There is apparent carelessness, in many cases, where lodges fail to ask for the necessary permission of the Grand Master before balloting on candidatea who show physical defects. In many cases the candidate has been given one or more degrees before his defect has been discovered. In others, he has been elected and a ruling is; asked for just before he is to be initiated. In still other cases a candidate has, been given the degrees and minor defects entirely overlooked. All officers of subordinate lodges should understand that any physical defect: should be passed upon by the Grand Master to establish the eligibility of thecandidate to receive the degrees and that this should be done before any stepis taken in the actual conferring of the degrees. Furthermore, when application is made to this office for a ruling the p r o cedure is often faulty, occasioning much delay and adding to our already heavy labor. In all cases the lodge should first have received the petition of the candidate who shows physical defects. The secretary should then be instructed by the lodge to write the Grand Master for his ruling thereon. I t should be stated in the letter that the lodge has already received the application of the petitioner, that Ills name is Mr. A. B., that he shows the following defects and here should come a detailed description of the defects. The name of the applicant must always be given that our records may be complete. In cases where the applicant, has suffered the loss of an eye, the certificate cf a competent physician should, be attached to the letter of the lodge to show whether or not the loss of one eyewill affect the vision of the other. The recommendation of the District Depnty Grand Master, where it is convenient to secure it, is always an advantage. Where the petitioner is afflicted with some disease or of an age that is uncommon, the statement as to whether or not he may ever become a charge to the lodge should not be overlool^ed. We might add as a matter of information t h a t this regulation is extremely mild compared to some other jurisdictions where they refer matters of this kind to a duly qualified physician. Under the head of " T h e Gavel Club at Legion" we take pleasure in quoting the following: The Gavel Club membership is made up of some 115 Masons, about onehalf of them being victims of tuberculosis; the remainder being drawn from t h e personnel and employees of that institution. It was through the efforts of Brother KEITH, as the representative of the Committee on Masonic Service and Education, that this building was erected, without cost to this Grand Lodge. In my opinion it is a very deserving and
298
CORRESPONDENCE—TEXAS.
February,
commendable enterprise. The Gavel Club building is the first Masonic Welfare Center t o be established in Texas, and, while it will he maintained especially for the use and benefit of our imfortunate brethren who have been stricken with this dread disease, the faciUtles will be open to all patients at the hospital for ex-service men and their friends and relatives who visit there from time to time. The building is well furnished, equipped with a ladies' rest room, reception hall and library. All this has been done without cost to the Grand Lodge: the money having been voluntarily subscribed by individual Masons and a few individual lodges. The Grand Master, we believe, has broken all records in the number of decisions rendered during his administration as we notice there were three hundred forty-six and it required forty-six pages of the Proceedings to list the same. In addition to this it requires nine pages to report the various subjects under the head of "Invasion of Jurisdiction." During the year the Grand Master made 103 visits to the lodges. We take it t h a t he was a busy man and in conducting the affairs of the Grand Lodge he was quite conservative and seemed t o hew close t o the line in the matter of complying with their laws and regulations. In conclusion he had the following to say: As Masons, we are taught to labor and that the world itself wiU be an eternal witness of the acts that we have done; that wo are noblmen of GOD'S patent, and that our escutcheons and quarterings are to be found in Heaven's great book of Heraldry. But if this be so, if we are to record accomplishments worthy of such a record, we must preserve Masonry as the realm of peace and by our actions demonstrate the power of gentlendss, which is too little seen in the world today. From none are the accomplishments and fruits of service withheld. Masonry admonishes ns that he is a barren tree indeed that lives and spreads and encumbers the ground, yet leaves not one seed to generate after him. Consequently, if we are able to lend the slightest impulse to any great and laudable design, if we by association with other good men are enabled thereby to advance the cause of enlighten ment and humanity and civic progress, that will be pur measure and will, just as truly as for the greatest, " b e our sufficient, even though it be our sole reward." . A great Roman has reminded us that in no respect do men so nearly approach the Deity as when they confer benefits on man and that this shoxUd •be a guide for those who set a right value upon a high and unsullied renown, and who, if they are ever to contemplate their future and eternal state, must not ;glve up their hearts to the praise of the crowd nor fix their hopes on such rewards as human power can bestow, but must raise their eyes to higher prospects. The Report on Correspondence was prepared by M.'. W.'. Brother S. M. BRADLEY. He extends to Kansas a fraternal review of our 1924 Proceedings. GuiNN WILLIAMS, M . \ W . ' . Grand Master, Decatur. WILLIAM B . PEARSON, R.-.W.". Grand Secretary, Waco. S. M. BRADLEY, P . - . G . \ M."., Correspondent, Denton. Next Annual, Waco, December 2, 1925.
1925-26.
COBRESPONDENCE—UTAH.
299
UTAH —1925. Lodges, 25; members, 4,734; net gain, 232. Salt Lake City, January 20, 1925.
JAMES WILLIAM COLLINS,
M.".W.\ Grand Master. Our Grand Representative was not present. The Grand Master in presenting his annual address extends the usual welcome to the brethren and admits that no one can fully realize the wonderful privileges and opportunities afforded a Grand Master until he has visited all the lodges in their jurisdiction. Under these circumstances he states that their lodges in almost every instance,' are prosperous and that peace and harmony prevail. Under the head of "Annual Returns" he has the following to say: Realizing that many jurisdictions gain much Imowledge and information from the annual returns, I have requested the Committee on Returns of Lodges to make a careful study of these returns and to compile data which viiW doubtless prove interesting to the members of the Grand Lodge here assembled. This Committee will malte its report at the proper time.
This recommendation is all right as far as it goes; however, no committee is as competent to prepare data of this kind as the Grand Secretary. I t might work in Utah on account of the small number of lodges, but in a jurisdiction like Kansas it would be an ignominious failure. • Through the recommendation of the Grand Master the Grand Lodge now assumes jurisdiction over all Masonic clubs or similar organizations for social purposes. As there are now upwards of forty organizations similar to their Masonic clubs we venture a guess that the Grand Lodge of Utah will soon be obliged to establish a bureau to deal with these matters and pass judgment on the merits of each. The Grand Secretary presents an interesting report; however, he overlooks one important matter and that is a summary of membership. We would respectfully refer him to the summary as shown on page 200, Proceedings of the Grand Lodge of Kansas for 1925. The Grand Lecturer recommended that in future all Masters be required to pass a satisfactory examination in the laws and Ritual before they could hold office. This is an old fashioned recommendation and it met the same fate as many of its predecessors. Not adopted. The Report on Correspondence by Brother SAM HENRY GOODWIN,
their Grand Secretary, contains a review of our 1924 Proceedings. For the information of a few of our brethren who take issue with the writer in the matter of printing the prayers of the Grand Chaplain, which he has always maintained was not in good taste, we quote the following from Brother GOODWIN'S report: Prayer of the Grand Chaplain printed in full. We are still looking for a Grand Chaplain's prayer that is not saturated with the fragrance of the print shop, or wrapped in the swaddling clothes of self-consciousness. We have
300
CORRESPONDENCE—VERMONT.
February.
found—in rare instances—printed prayers, and once in a great wlille a Grand Lodge Prayer, that leaves no suggestion of a barrier between the common Father of us all, and His children, but not often. Why should we be diffident in the presence of our Father? Are we? And is it because we are not very well acquainted with Him? or do not associate with Him often enough to feel a t ease in His presence? Something troubles us, at all events. BENJAMIN ROGERS HOWELL, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Salt Lake City. SAM HENRY GOODWIN, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary and Correspondent, Salt Lake City. Next Annual, Salt Lake City, January 19, 1926.
VERMONT —1925. Lodges, 103; members, 18,682; net gain, 226. Burlington, June 10, 1925. CHRISTIE B . CROWELL, M.-. W . ' . Grand Master. Kansas was ably represented at this Communication by their faithful Grand Secretary, Brother HENRY H . ROSS. The Grand Master has but few words to offer in submitting his annual address, from which we take the liberty of quoting the following: As we look into each others faces and clasp the hands of brethren tried and true it seems hardly possible that since we last met another twelve months have passed beyond recall and that the days of our years are so much nearer their close. But though the slow steps may be a little slower and the gray heads a little grayer the fires of fraternal friendslilp burn all the brighter as time passes on and the pleasures of brotherhood here realized which have come to fill so large a place in our hearts and lives bring us Iccener satisfaction from year to year as we 'meet in Annual Communication, and prove no small incentive to efficient service during the montlis which intervene. Their faithful Grand Treasurer, Brother CHARLES W . W H I T COMB, who has served in that capacity for thirty-seven years, was obliged to decline to serve longer. Be that as it may. Brother W H I T COMB has indeed left an enviable record and we have no doubt his services have been appreciated by the Craft in that jurisdiction. The Grand Master recommended t h a t the custom of issuing memorials be renewed as this practice had of late years not been followed. To give our readers some idea as to the care taken by our New England brethren in the matter of looking after their lodge paraphernalia, we quote the following: Bear this in mind also: Where lodge rooms are to be used by Chapters of the Eastern Star, the Masonic paraphernalia with the exception of the altar Bible, and electric fixtures, should be stored under lock and key during such occupancy and never left exposed to criticism and remark. This paraphernalia, is for our use alone and should be kept sacred for such purpose.
1925-26.
CORRESPONDENCE—VICTORIA.
301
Two of the Grand Master's recommendations fell by the wayside as indicated in the following taken from the report of the Committee on Jurisprudence: Second; With respect to the recommendation of the Grand Master that whenver a candidate for initiation and admission to any lodge in this State comes from another jurisdiction under waiver, fees for his admission shall be the same as fees- for admission to the lodge in the jurisdiction from whence he came, would be in violation of Article XX'I of the By-Laws, in that said Article fixes a minimum fee for initiation and advancement and leaves all other fees to the regulation of the individual lodge. Third: With respect to the recommendation of the Grand Master that One Dollar (Si) be collected of each new candidate and the same be forwarded to the Grand Secretary, to be in turn forwarded to the Gfeorge Washington Memorial Association, woiild be in violation of Article VII of the By-Laws, wliich provdes that each lodge shall return S3, to the Grand Secretary for each initiation during the year, and this recommendation would, in effect, mal<e t h e amount demanded S4 instead of S3. Our Proceedings for 1924 receive attention at the hands of M.\ W.'. Brother ARCHIE S . HARRIMAN, who writes the Report on Correspondence. His review is interesting throughout and we appreciate his reference to the writer of this report. CHRISTIE B. CROWELL,.M.-.W.-.Grand Master, Brattleboro. HENRY H . ROSS, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Burhngton. ARCHIE S . HARRIMAN, P . - . G . ' . M . - . , Correspondent, Middlebury. Next Annual, Burlington, June 9, 1926.
VICTORIA—1924. Lodges, 324; members, 34,583; net gain, 4,251. Melbourne, March 26, 1924. T H E EARL OF STRADBROKE, M . - . W . ' . Grand Master. Referring to the chain letter proposition the Board of General Purposes had the following to say: The attention of the Board has been directed t o the revival of Chain Letters and Prayers, which has caused considerable annoyance to members of the Fraternity. The attention of subordinate Lodges has again been drawn to the pronouncement of the M.'.W.'. Grand Master, issued in August, 1917, and it Is expected tliat every member of the Craft will recognize the necessity of destroying such letters, so as to effectively stop this practice. Brother EDWARD THOMAS APPS, our Grand Representative, was present. The Report on Correspondence contains a review of our 1924 Proceedings. T H E EARL OP STRADBROKE, M.'.W.'.Grand Master. WILLIAM STEWART, R.-.W.-.Grand Secretary, Melbourne.
302
CORRESPONDENCE—VIRGINIA.
February.
VIRGINIA—1925. Lodges, 352; members, 45,561; net gain, 1,931. Richmond, February 10, 1925.
CHARLES H . CALLAHAN, M . ' . W . - .
Grand Master. Referring to the establishment of their own Grand Lodge the Grand Master has the following to say: The Declaration of Independence was only two years old when amid the dash of arms of that mighty and unequal struggle for American freedom a devoted band of fraternal patriots assembled In the provincial village of Williamsburg, dissolved their allegiance to foreign jurisdictions and asserting the inalienable rights of free men founded the Grand Lodge of Virginia. How far away that scene appears amid the splendors of the Craft's expanding influence today. Exalted by continued service t o humanity, loyalty to country and reverence for GOD, it enjoys now the fullest measure of public approval in all its honored life. Happy in our present condition and sanguine of future success we can look back with grateful hearts through the intervening years to those stirring times and devoted men, who gathered amid the clouds of Revolution, organized our present Grand Lodge and with fervent zeal dedicated it to the Godly mission for which it serves. W e t a k e pleasure i n quoting t h e following words from his excellent a d d r e s s , k n o w i n g full well t h a t t h e y will b e a p p r e c i a t e d b y our readers: We have just emerged from a transitory period of temendous import. The anxiety and nervous tumult consequent upon the recent' World War aroused unusual interest in fraternallsm. Men of all classes sought consolation and support in fraternal fellowship and association. Such a condition is not unusual, indeed it is a common occurrence in every period of great social and political disturbance and it takes years for such upheavals to strike a balance and restore the public mind to a state of normal peace and quiet. The fraternal atmosphere has, I think, materially cleared and our institution has in a large measure settled down to its pre-war status of calm and deliberate life. Improved by the unusual experience I believe that out of this mental agitation has grown a more intimate relation between the individual members of the Order, as well as a more profound sense of obligation towards each other. From observation and personal contact with a large number of our Lodges, whose memberships have been materially increased in the last decade, I am certain that if we discreetly utilize tliis leavened force, an institution of more potential power for good will be the inevitable result. We must, therefore, be alive to the imperative needs of the situation. Those in authority should Immediately take advantage of the rare opportunity presented, commandeer this vitalizing influence, and by example lead it into new spheres of useful activity. The seed is sown and we can reap the harvest. This, however, cannot be accomplished without an effort, but it can and will be accomplished by united purpose and persistent labor. I make no daim to super-intelligence, have no light to guide my actions but the lamp of limited experience and the salutary advice of trusted friends. I am not endowed with prophetic or even penetrating vision of an unusual nature, but I am convinced after calm and unbiased reflection that Masonry In Virginia has reached its apex of useful service unless we direct our actions to enlarged fields of fraternal enterprise a n d ' practical philanthropy. Masonry becomes dignified and Impressive by a lilgh standard of profidency in the work. I t becomes robust, strong and attractive by the assodatlon
1925-26.
CORRESPONDENCE—VIRGINIA.
303
and good fellowship of its members, but its life blood, indeed, its very soul, Is the ennobling spirit of charity. This is the eternal fountain from which It draws Its nourishing food and inspiration and without which it becomes a withered leaf, a useless member of society unworthy of our support and protection. The member who wiU not contribute to the relief of a distressed worthy brother or affUcted dependent, if financially able to do so, is a defaulter in Masonic principles, a veritable parasite, which saps the strength from the body of the instit\ition and should be eradicated at the first opportunity. The spirit of Masonry la its broadest sense is a divine exaltation of the soul, a priceless gift from GOD to man and cannot be computed in dollars and cents or by the standard of any other circulating medium. Practical philanthropy, I conceive. Is the asent or temporal means to apply this indefinable spirit to man's physical uses in the most beneficent and effective manner. I t is, therefore, not a profound secret, that the very foundation upon which our institution stands is found and best expressed in those uplifting tenets of brotherly love, relief and truth, and If we fail in a true sense to exemplify these virtues in our body politic, as well as our individual lives, then we fail in the great mission of the institution and stand out as a nugatory influence in any community. Exultant claims of superiority and exceptional worth for our order are but sounding brass and tinkling cymbals unless supported by concrete evidence of efficient service to mankind in either a moral or practical sense. Euphonious phrases alone never relieve a widow's want, nor will high sounding platitudes stop the cravings of a hungry man. Comfortable surroundings and wholesome social intercourse stimulate interest in Lodge meetings and should not be discountenanced or discouraged in any Masonic community. Tills, however, should not and dees not alter the fact that the relief of distress, the protection of the widow and orphan and the kind and sympathetic ministrations to those who have a just claim upon our affections is the solvent and indisputable guarantee of our merit, and the best assurance of posterity's favor. Indeed, it is by a strict adherence to and an exemplification of these virtues that we can obtain the enduring approbation of the world at large, and the eternal blessing of a just Providence. I would not have you opine, my Brethren, that I am charging you with shortcomings or casting doubt upon the character of your Masonry. Personal experience in the discharge of my official duties, as well as extensive inquiry, convinces me that nowhere in all Masonry's varied field of activity can be found a more wholesome, sacrificial devotion to its interest and righteous purposes, than is today being exemplified in pur revered and historic jurisdiction. A great host is moving forward, armed with the true spirit of benevolence, mlling and anxious to battle want and afflicition within its ranks. An intrepid fraternal legion has caught the vision which duty and service inspires, a wholesome. Godly aspiration for nobler things in fraternal life. There is no want of zeal, no want of enthusiasm, but an exultant, determined purpose to put •Virginia in the very forefront of Masonic enterprise of the most advanced and constructive character and I congratulate you upon this awakening, this onward and upUfting spirit which will crown the present with glorious achievement and go down to the future as a testimonial of our fidelity to trust. T h e foUo-wing -words, t a k e n from his reference t o " Masonic E d u c a t i o n " is in t h o r o u g h h a r m o n y w i t h t h e position t a k e n b y our G r a n d M a s t e r s on this subject: I t matters not then how capable and zealous these faithful servants of the Grand Lodge may be in the discharge of their duties, unless the officers of the Lodges voluntarily present themselves for instruction the work of the Lecturers and the Deputies Is devoid of practical results. In this event and in all instances where at least the stationed officers do not equip themselves for their respective ' duties a drastic remedy should be supplied and vigorously enforced for the good of the Fraternity. I have, therefore, taken the liberty to recommend some
304
C0RItESPOIvDE?,-CE—VIRGINIA.
February,
legislation along this line, which 1 hope will meet j'our approbation and prove effective. From his conclusion we take the following: Freemasonry is as mysterious in its operations as it is in its origin. Directed by an unseen power its spirit hovers alike around the lowly cottage and the palatial mansion. It woos men from every walk of life, regardless of social caste, inherited station or commanding power. I t appeals to the monarch on his throne or the peasant in liis hut. I t was with WARREN, POTNAM, PRESCOTT and HEATH at Bunker Hill, with "WASHINGTON, KNOX, MARSHALL and L A -
F AYETTE a t Valley Forge and at Yorktown. I t tempered the heart of FREDERICK the Great and drew NAPOLEON and WELLINGTON together in mysterious friendship amid the carnage of Waterloo. It aroused the spirit of mercy in the breast of Bed Jacket and BRANDT to stay the tomahawk and quench the burning fagot of the savage. An irresistible, undying force for good it sweeps on and on with the varying scenes of the world's progress, now bending low under the depressing influence of superstitious hate to rise again on the crescendo of public approval. In its mysterious way it digs deep into the consciences of men when least expected and arouses the noblest impulses of the heart indeed, it approaches each individual in a different garb, it refracts its light through varied prisms. The Report on Correspondence was again prepared by the "war horse" of Masonry in Virginia, Brother JOSEPH W . EGGLESTON, and in it he includes a review of our 1924 Proceedings. His report covers absolutely every transaction in our Grand Lodge at that Communication worthy of mention. It is evident t h a t Brother EGGLESTON reads the Proceedings carefully before making his findings. It too frequently happens that some of the writers of the reports review the Proceedings hastily and occasionally get the transactions of one Grand Lodge mixed with another. Brother EGGLESTON took us at our word in our review of 1924 concerning the GEORGE WASHINGTON matter and has indeed prepared a very interesting summing up of this subject, and we take pleasure in quoting it: November 4th, 5752, .Received from Mr. GEORGE WASHINGTON for his entrance £2, 3s. Od. March 3d, 5753. GEORGE WASHINGTON passed Fellow Craft. August 4th, 5753, GEOBGE WASHINGTON raised Master Mason. This old Lodge was the first place in wliich any record could be found by HuGHAN of England of the conferring of the Royal Arch as a degree. On that occasion the Royal Arch Lodge was opened and the Master called Right Worshipful Grand Master. After the degree had been conferred on a team of three it says " Royal Arch Lodge being Shutt Entrcd Ajiprcntices Lodge opend." Ink economy seems to have been thought to be of more importance than spelling. There are several instances in which WASHINGTON was recorded present before he moved to Mount Vernon. According to our system of dual Membership he remained a member of Fredericksburg Lodge all his Ufe though he later became also a member and for two years Master of Alexandria Lodge,, which latter buried him with Masonic honors. CHARLES H. CALLAHAN, M . - . W . ' . Grand Master, Alexandria. CHARLES A. NESBITT, R . ' . W . ' . Grand Secretary, Richmond. JOSEPH W . EGGLESTON, P.-,G.'. M . \ , Correspondent, Richmond. .
Next Annual, Richmond, February 9, 1926.
1925-26.
CoBBESPONDENCE—WESTERN
AUSTRALIA.
305
WESTERN AUSTRALIA-1924. Lodges, 102; members, 6,493; net gain, 483. Quarterly Communication held in Boulder, August 23, 1923. We believe the following under the head of "The Necessity for Economy" is worthy of reproduction as it applies to a very large extent to many lodges in our own jurisdiction: Two years ago. when delivering my quarterly address in this hall, I referred to the need for economy in the administration of the affairs of the private Lodges, and pointed out that their combined subscription income fell short of meeting ordinary expenditure by £2,400. The Grand Secretary has supplied me with a set of figures for the past 12 months, which indicate very clearly that not only has there been no improvement but the position has actually become worse. These figures show that the total dues received by Lodges amounted to £11,857; initiation and joining fees, £5,552; while the amount expended on the festive board was £4,814: absorbing the whole of this nonrecurring revenue—the initiation fees—with the exception of £738. The total Improvement in the financial position of the Lodges is £2,091, showing that they have been compelled to use £3,461 of their income from new admissions t o enable them to "carry on " The dues outstanding amount to no less than £4,183, which does not indicate good and efficient management. As I pointed •out two years ago, the boom period which the Craft is passing through, is not being taken advantage of to create reserves against the lean period which in all. probability is to follow. I would advise responsible officers of Lodges to carefully consider whether their present subscription income is on a scale sufficient tojmeet all reasonable requirements, and if they find it inadequate to take whatever steps they consider necessary to have the position remedied. The cost of maintaining a Lodge has increased in every direction, with the exception of Grand Lodge dues, and, while a subscription of two guineas was probably sufiBcient to meet the requirements of some Lodges prior to the war, such a sum must be altogether insufficient now. Quarterly Communication at Bunbury, February 26, 1924. In the preface to the Grand Master's address, among other things, he has the following to say: The young men who are knocking at the doors of Freemasonry in their thousands have conceived a high opinion of our ancient Craft, and desirous of learning as much about it as possible. I t is, therefore, the duty of the elder brethren and the officers of the Lodge to shoulder the responsibility of teaching them what true Freemasonry means, and what it stands for. If they perform this duty faithfully there is no fear that this 50 per cent, of youth so recently added to our members will form a true foundation on which to erect the Masonic edifice of the future. Clean living, straight dealing, kindness in trouble—'these are the simple attributes of our old Freemasonry. We consider the following under the head of " The Craft and Politics" excellent advise and an important subject which should be strictly adhered to by all lodges: Quite recently the Grand Lodge of England thought it proper, in view of the approaching general elections, to remind Lodges and brethren of the injunction of H. R. H. T H E DUKE OF SUSSE.K, when, as Grand Master in 1820, he warned the Craft that all subjects of a political nature were strictly excluded from discussion at Masonic meetings as being in strict accordance with long
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established Masonic tradition. In Western Australia we have been particularly free from any offence against this law of the Craft, and I would urge upon brethren the necessity of a close observance of this ancient landmark of the Order which covers Festive Board gatherings as well as Lodge meetings. I t has long been the proud boast of Freemasonry t h a t it has no politics, and that it does not interfere m t h the political convictions of any of its members. On the contrary, it brings together men who very often are kept apart by religion and politics. In the words of the Ancient Charge— '' Masonry is the centre of union between good men and true, and the happy means of conciliating friendship amongst those who must otherwise have remained at a perpetual distance." On no account, therefore, must any attempt be made to bring the Craft into the political arena, but this does not prevent a Freemason from taking an intelUgent Interest in the affairs of his country. He cannot remain indifferent to what his country is doing, or what legislation it is enacting. On the contrary, it is his duty to be well informed so that he may do his part in maintaining those ideals for which Freemasonry stands, and which are the foundation of all good government. The Annual Communication was held at Perth on May 2, 1924, and we are pleased to note that our Grand Representative, R.\ W.'. Brother Rev. FRED S. FINCH, was present. The Proceedings again contain an interesting Report on Correspondence, and our Proceedings for 1923 are reviewed by Brother A. . C. MCCALLUM.
CHARLES OWEN LEAVER RILEY, M . - . W . ' . Grand Master, Perth. J. D. STEVENSON, R . - . W / . Grand Secretary, Perth.
WESTERN AUSTRALIA —1925. Lodges, 102; members, 6,870; net gain, 377. A Quarterly Communication was held in Kalgoorlie, August 28, 1924. The Grand Master in submitting his address, had the following to say: My first words must be those of thanks to you, Brethren of the Goldflelds, for welcoming us with flowers and music. I t is a pleasant change from the conditions under which I first visited the Fields when water was too precious to be used for growing flowers I must also express my sincere thanks to the Goldjlelds' Lodges, and the Goldflelds' Brethren generally, for the kind messages sent to me on the occasion of my 70th birthday. Those messages, together with the splendid reception given to me in Perth, flUed my heart with gratitude. At the Perth gathering we had a good representation of Scottish Brethren, just as we have here to-night, and for the friendship they have always shown to me, personally, I am really deeply grateful. 1 am glad to have with us to-night the Grand Secretary, looking well after his recent severe Illness. I will now refer to the business of the past quarter. Under the subject of "Initiation of Candidates Area of Residence," we quote the following:
outside their
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307
In the early years of Grand Lodge it was laid down as a rule that,'when a candidate was nominated in a Lodge outside his area of residence, enquiry should be made at the Lodge meeting in the district in which he resided In order to ascertain If they knew of any good reason why he should not be admitted to the Craft, This rule, which seems to me to be an excellent one, is not always acted upon and the neglect frequently leads to some little feeling between Lodges which might otherwise easily be avoided. When a candidate is nominated in a Lodge away from the district in which he resides, there'is generally some reason for this, and the Lodge into wliich he is being introducedlhasa right to know it. I again commend this to the notice of all Masters. pJli^l/l
Proficiency in preceding degrees receives attention at his hands in the following words: At different times various Inspectors of Working have called attention to the practice of candidates answering the questions alternately, instead of separately, when called upon to show their proficiency in the previous Degrees. It has been pointed out that instead of the candidate answering eleven questions before being Passed, or nine before being Kaised, he might actually be called upon to answer one only. Therefore, by no stretch of imagination, could he'be said to have proved himself proficient within the meaning and intention of the Kitual. I very strongly recommend that every candidate, before being Passed or Raised, shall by himself answer the whole of the questions set-down in*the examination.
From an interesting topic under the head of "Statement for Candidates," we are pleased to quote the following: At the Australian Masonic Conference held in Melbourne at^the end"'of 1921, it was recommended that a statement should be prepared setting out^the nature, character and purpose of Freemasonry, and the qualification for membersliip, and that such statement should be placed in the hands of every candidate before, he signed the nomination form. A statement was duly prepared and approved by Grand Lodge. It was then Issued to the Lodges with instructions, which included a direction to the Master, to fill in the candidate's name before issue. It has come to the knowledge of the Grand Secretary that'this rxUe is not always acted upon, and that frequently the candidate knows notMng of its existence until some time after his admission to the Craft. As this statement is rightly regarded as being of supreme importance, it becomes Imperative that It shall be read by evey candidate before he finally completes his petition for membership. Copies can always be had at the Grand Secretary's oflBce.
As a business proposition and in which we believe many of our own lodges will be interested, we quote the following under the'head of "Lodge Economies:" Three years ago, at the Quarterly Communication held at the Boulder, I referred to the necessity of Lodges exercising economy in the management of their affairs, and I am afraid I must again issue a word of warning to such Lodges as may be in need of it. I expresssed the opinion in 1921 that the average Lodge should be able to carry on with the revenue derived from the members' annual dues, and that initiation and joining fees—which might be classed as "extraordinary revenue"—should be used for the purpose of creating a reserve fund, or Special Charity Fund. I am of the same opinion still, and so are a great many of the Grand Masters throughout the world who seemed determined to keep this phase of Lodge finance prominently before the Lodges of their respective Jurisdictions. We have passed through the booin period which followed the war, and I am rather afraid that Lodges-—or at least many of them—have
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February,
failed to take full advantage of their buoyant revenue to malie provision for the lean period which is nearly sure to foUow. Last year oui" Lodges received in initiation and joining fees a sum of approximately £5,000, of which about £3,000 was used to meet the requirements of ordinary expenditure. I think we should have done better, and the reason for our failure is not far to seek. Very few Lodges have raised their annual subscriptions, although quite a number have raised their initiation fees. The cost of maintaining a Lodge, like the cost of maintaining anything else, has gone up considerably, but no definite steps seem to have been taken by those Lodges who are compelled to use up their initiation fees each year. In the neighbouring Jurisdiction of South Australia they have raised the minimum initiation fee in the metropoUtan area to £10 10s., and in country districts to £8 8s., and I think most of us will agree that these figures are reasonable enough.
Referring to the death of their venerable and faithful Grand Secretary, we are pleased to submit the following: I have to announce to Grand Lodge the death of B.'.W.'. Bro. JOHN HAMILTON, the Grand Secretary of Tasmania, who passed away at the ripe old age cf 91. H e was the veteran Freemason of the Island Jurisdiction and has been Grand Secretary as long as we can remember. Although not engaged in active Craft work of recent years, he stUl held the ofBce of Grand Secretary which the Grand Lodge was pleased to permit on account of his long and meritorious service.
Parodies on the Ritual receives attention at his hands in the following words: I t has been reported to me that in some Lodges a popular form of entertainment at the festive board is for a brother to deliver some parody on certain parts of the ritual, most frequently the investiture of a Steward. I have seen a few of these, and, while they may afford amusement to some brethren, I cannot too strongly condemn the practice as being un-masonic and calculated to bring about a lack of reverence for our dignified and beautiful ritual and its ceremonies. I need say no more but would ask the brethren to peruse our Antient Charge No. 6, Section 2, which was designed to regulate the conduct of Freemasons at the festive board. It enjoins the brethren " t o enjoy themselves in innocent mirth * * * not doing or saying anything offensive * * * not to do anything that would blast our harmony and defeat our laudable purpose."
At their Quarterly Communication held in Perth, February 26, 1925, the Grand Master had the following to say concerning their Widows', Orphans' and Aged Freemasons' Fund: As the chairman of this fimd I desire to remind the brethren that the books will close in less than a month's time, when I hope the results will be found quite equal to former years. The caUs on the fund are increasing steadily every year, and now the time has arrived when the Board finds itself unable to meet all the demands under the rules as they at present stand, and are asking Grand Lodge for wider spending powers. It cannot be too often repeated that we are a young Constitution, mainly comprised of young men, and that the older we grow the more claims we are likely to have. I t is all to the credit of the Craft everywhere that the Masonic Chaiities are being splendidly supported, and In England last year the two Schools and the Old People's Institution had a combined income of £333,000, a most remarkable result, considering the period of depression through which the Old Land has been passing. 1 would ask the brethren of the jurisdiction to assist the Charity Stewards in their unselfish labours by giving freely and generously.
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309
The subject of Italian Masonry is given consideration at the hands of the Grand Master in the following words at their Annual Communication, held in Perth, on May 28, 1925: For some time past the brethren may have noticed in the daily press frequent allusions to the position of Freemasonry in Italy, and the attacks on the institution by Signer MUSSOLINI, the Premier. The latest information we have is the attempt to have a law enacted whereby the Craft will be brought under the Illegal Institutions Act, which aims at the suppression of all secret societies. At this distance we are at some difDculty in properly understanding the Italian situation, and as we have never recognised the Grand Orient of Italy, and consequently never had any direct Masonic connection with that country, we have little or no first hand knowledge. We know that Freemasonry was founded in Italy by the Grand Lodge of England nearly two hundred years ago, and made wonderful growth, especially in Southern Italy and Sicily. Having been transplanted from England it grew up in EngUsh form with English characteristics, but later Pope CLEMENT X I I , excommunicated it, and afterwards the excommunication was confirmed by BENEDICT XIV. These Papal Bulls in all probability threw the Craft into open revolt against the Church of Rome, and it became strongly anti-clerical, and I am afraid strongly political as well. I t must be admitted, however, that included in its ranks were many of Italy's finest patriots, notably MAZZINI and GARIBAL-DI, as well as other men who cherished profoundly their civil and political liberties. There are probably about 40,000 Freemasons in Italy to-day under two separate organisations, one entitled the National Grand Lodge of Italy, which is said to follow the an'tient landmarks very closely, and the other more numerous and more militant in open and bitter hostility with the clerical powers. As we are not sufficiently well informed regarding the present day position of the Craft in Italy, it would be unwise to ofl'er any criticism, but it furnishes an object lesson to us in Australia as to what is likely to happen to Freemasonry should it meddle m t h religion and politics. We regret to note that our Grand Representative was not present at this Communication. An excellent review of other Proceedings by several brethren is made a part of these Proceedings and we note a splendid reference to our 1924 Proceedings compiled by Brother A. C. MCCALLUM. The report throughout shows conclusively that the reviewers of the Proceedings are thorough in every respect, as each of the brethren writing his share of the report reads not only the particular Proceedings he is reviewing, but likewise those of other jurisdictions and hence a cross reference is made in each report. M . - . W . - . Brother, Most Rev. CHAS. OWEN LEAVER RILEY, Archbishop of Perth, Grand Master. J. D. STEVENSON, R.-. W.'. Grand Secretary, Perth.
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February,
WEST VIRGINIA-1924. Lodges, 166; members, 32,224; net gain, 1,206. Bluefield, November 13, 1924. FRED C . STEINBICKER, M.-. W.-. Grand Master. Brother JOHN M . COLLINS, our Grand Representative and who is their faithful Grand Secretary, was at his post as usual. The Grand Master rendered a number of decisions, some of which are rather amusing and for the edification of our readers we quote the following: Any one minus his left hand cannot petition for Masonry. The Order of the Eastern Star has no place in a Masonic funeral procession. In answer to a question whether it was possible for the Grotto to meet in a lodge room he answered t h a t the Grand Lodge had passed on this question and that this organization could not be permitted to meet in any lodge room in their jurisdiction. Under "Permission Refused" we take pleasure in quoting the following: Under date of April 7,1924,1 received an inquiry from GEORGE I. BRAMMER, Secretary, Huntington Lodge No. 53. A. F . & A. M., inquiring if it would be permissible for the De Molay Boys to meet in the Blue Lodge Room. After a thorough investigation of all the circumstances in connection with the Order of De Molay, I concluded that since there are a t the present time a t least eight or ten new organizations that are claiming some sort of Masonic relationship or connection with some of its appendant orders, or in some manner under the protection or sponsorship of the appendant orders of Masonry and realizing that Free Masonry must finally accept the responsibility for all of these many newly created organizations, that I am pursuaded that I would not be acting for the best interests of Masonry would I give my consent to any of these organizations to meet in the Lodge Rooms of our Subordinate Lodges in this Jurisdiction and must therefore conclude that the order of DeMolay Boys cannot meet in your Blue Lodge Room. He has the following to say under the subject of "Recommendations:" In checking over the reports I received from the several District Deputy Grand Masters, I find a number of instances where the Officers are not proficient in the degree work. • I t seems t o me there is hardly any excuse for this condition to exist. With our very proflcient corps of Deputy Grand Lecturers always willing to give their time, when called upon by any Lodge in the Jurisdiction, it would appear that every Lodge would seek such service from these Deputy Lecturers, as they might need. I also notice from these reports, that only a few of the Lodges in this Jurisdiction, have increased the dues since our last meeting. It is almost impossible to understand why any Lodge could attempt to run its affairs on yearly dues of two or two and one-half dollars per year. No Lodge in this jurisdiction can afford to collect less than five or six dollars for dues per year.
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I t was proposed, through a resolution, to make the purchase or having in one's possession any intoxicating liquors a Masonic offense. It also provided that any lodge knowingly electing such a person should forfeit its charter. When the resolution was acted upon t h e proposition was defeated by a vote of 41 for, to 94 against, - We often wonder why Masonic lodges assume to make laws and pass resolutions which are specifically provided for in the laws of the land? In other words, why borrow trouble. Their faithful Past Grand Secretary, Brother GEORGE W . ATKINSON, prepared the usual Report on Correspondence and we cannot refrain from quoting his entire "Foreword" knowing full well it will be interesting to our brethren: Some years ago our Grand Lodge adopted the following ianrfmorfcs of Freemasonry, as the' essential requirements of the Craft and it is needless to say that we are still adhering to them, and so far as I can now see, there is. no apparent likelihood that we shall ever retreat, or change them: The first Landmark and the foundation stone of our Ancient Institution,. Is the belief in one ever-living GOD, the Great Creator of the Universe, a " Being: without beginning of days or end of Life." (Heb. vii., 3.) The second Landmark is a belief in the immortality of the soul. That; man is an immortal spirit clothed with a body of flesh, which is laid aside atdeath. " I t is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a. natural body, and there is a spiritual body." (I Cor., xv., 44.) The third Landmark naturally follows, viz., the Brotherhood of m a n — "Honor all men. Love the Brotherhood." (I Pet. li., 17)—with its sacred; lessons of Faith, Hope and Charity; its principal tenets of Brotherly Love,. Kelief and Truth, and culminating in the Fatherhood of the Divine Humanity Symbolized by Wisdom. Strength and Beauty. Fourth. The principles embodied in the Ancient Charges and involved in the Universal Laws, Ceremonies, Esotery and Symbolism of Freemasonry, characteristically illustrated in part by Temperance, Fortitude, Prudence and Justice; Hearing, Seeing, Feeling, Smelling and Tasting; Corn, Wine and Oil; Youth, Manhood and Age; are doubtless unquestionable Landmarks. Fifth. Grand Lodge Sovereignty and Supremacy within its own jurisdiction, with the inherent right to determine for itself and designate to its Subordinates and all other Masonic Bodies built upon its foundations and using its laws and esotery, that which is and that which is not regular and Masonic, Is now as it should be, very generally conceded to be a Landmark. Sixth. Although the esoteric teachings of Freemasonry are admitted t o be Landmarks, yet it is also true that by careless transmission and in an iconoclastic desire for ill-timed and ill-considered improvements, its Rituals have in some cases been transposed, and in other instances very important feaitures have doubtless been entirely lost. The Masonic student of the future may, however, by careful study through its sj'mbolism, discover and bring to light many of its lost characteristic features now hidden in the letter of its history and lessons as portrayed in its ancient manuscripts and repeated b j Dr. ANDERSON.
In this connection the discoveries of our Eminent Brothers SIDNEY T . KLEIN —noted in his papers on " T h e Great Symbol"—and the Historical Eesearches of EDWARD CONDER, J R . . both of the Quatuor Coronati Lodge' of London, England, is an evidence of the important progress that has already been made in this study. Seventh. That'membership in a Lodge from first to last is voluntary is a well known Landmark, and that the rights of an Entered Apprentice as a Mason to membership and to vote and participate in Lodge affairs, is also un-
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•questionably an Ancient Landmark, and so conceded, by HUGHAN, GOULD, DRUMMOND, and the late ALBERT PIKE, and other eminent Masonic scholars. The following poem, which breathes the true Masonic Spirit, was written as a; counterpart of the poem entitled " L e t Me Live Beside the Boad, and Be a Friend to M a n , " and carries out the same beautiful sentiments, which conveys the doctrine and principles taught by Freemasonry. Here is the poem* LET ME WALK WITH T H E CEOWD I N THE ROAD.
'Tis only a half truth the poet has sung Of the "house by the side of the w a y ; " Our Master had neither a house nor a home. But He wallsed with the crowd day by day. And 1 think when I read of the poet's desire. That a house by the road would be good; But service is found in its tenderest form When we walk with the crowd in the road. So, I say, let me walk with the crowd in the road. Let me seek out the burdens that crush. Let me speak a kind word of good cheer t o the weak "Who are falling behind in the rush. There are wounds to be healed, there are brealis we must mend. There's a cup of cold water to give; And the man in the road by the side of his friend Is the man who has learned to live. T h e n tell me no more of the house by the road There is only one place I can live— J t ' s there with the men who are toiling along, "Who are needing the cheer I can give. I t is pleasant to live in the house by the way And be a friend—as the poet has said— But the Master is bidding us, "Bear ye their load. For your rest waiteth yonder ahead." I could not remain in the house by the road And watch as the toilers go on, 'Their faces beclouded with pain and with sin. So burdened, their strength nearly gone. Til go to their side. I'll speak in good cheer, I'll help them t o carry their load; And I'll smile a t the one in the house by the way. As I walk with the crowd in the road. Out there in the road, that goes by the house "Where the poet is singing his song, I'll walk and I'll work midst the heat of the day, And I'll help falling brothers along— Too busy to live in the house by the way. Too happy for such an abode. And my heart sings its praise to the Master of all, "Who is helping me serve in the road.
In his excellent report he grants us more than three pages covering a Teview of our 1924 Proceedings. CLYDE T . DUTTON, M.-.'W.'.Grand Master, Parkersburg. JOHN M . COLLINS, R.-.'W.-. Grand Secretary, Charleston. GEORGE "W. ATKINSON, P . - . G . ' . M . ' . , Correspondent, Charleston.
Next Annual, November 11, 1925. (Place not designated.)
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WISCONSIN —1925. Lodges, 297; members, 54,827; net gain, 2,463. Milwaukee, June
9, 1925.
FRANK JOHNSON, M . - . W . \ Grand
Master. We take pleasure in quoting the following from the address of the Grand Master: Every year that we come together in these annual sessions, some of the faces that we have been accustomed to see are missing, faces with which we have become familiar and whose owners wc have learned to love, respect and admire, and who we sadly miss on these occasions. We are missing on this occasion some of our brethren who would' be more than pleased to be present, who are not able to be here on account of sickness or other unavoidable reasons, and we can assure them that they are missed and enquired after, and that their sorrow and regret in not being able to be present is no more than ours in not being able to meet, exchange greetings and associate with them as usual.
Among other questions asked the Grand Master was one whether it was proper to confer part of the first degree, on several candidates on one evening and finish the job at a later date. Of course the Grand Master answered in the negative. He was also asked whether a candidate could demand a change of the word "Swear" to "confirm'" and this was likewise answered " N o . " Another case was submitted where a brother who had previously taken out his dimit cast his ballot when a lodge was acting on a petition for membership. The question was raised as to the legality of the ballot; however, the Grand Master held that after the result had been declared by the Master it must stand. Under "Masonic Funerals" he had the following to say: These services should be conducted in conformity to the Masonic Monitor of this Grand Lodge. I t should be noted that the Masonic services should be completed at the grave, the commitment made there, and no services given there after the Masonic services are completed. If other services are desired or given they should be before the Masonic services. Brother DAVID HARLOWE, our Grand Representative, was present.
An excellent report concerning their Masonic Home is made a part of the Proceedings. It is interesting throughout, including a descriptive plate showing the use of the various funds expended from time to time for this institution. We are pleased to quote the following from the report of the Committee on Masonic Research: Our wonderful ritual is a repository in which are stored treasures of great value. We must first become thoroughly familiar with this ritual as it has been handed down to us, and then give it our most earnest thought and study in an endeavor to obtain the benefits we can surely expect from such a comprehensive
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system of morality. True it is "veiled" and there are indeed, "hidden mysteries," but the intellectual, moral and spiritual thought necessary to an analysis of the ritual is the very process which is necessary in using the tools and implements of architecture and geometrical symbols to build our Temple of Character, That this great Fraternity is not functioning to its capacity is too evident to need discussion. To bring it to a greater efHciency is the most serious problem which confronts us. I f appears to your committee that a more adequate conception of Freemasonry is a starting point for greater efficiency. To spread this better conception it is necessary to have talks by well informed brethren, and we most earnestly urge Masters of Lodges to have lectures given by brethren who can inspire a higher conception of Freemasonry. Every Worshipful Master ought to deliver at least a few talks each year on the symbolism and philosophy of Freemasonry. He is expected to give the Craft proper instruction. Until every Master really does qualify as being able to expound the symbolism and philosophy of Freemasonry and understands that which he professes to teach, we cannot expect efficiency.
A review of our 1925 Proceedings are made a part of the Report on Correspondence prepared by M.\ W.", Brother ALDRO JENKS.
Re-
ferring to the severing of fraternal relations by the Grand Lodge of Kansas with New Hampshire, he has the following to say: We are pleased to note by the Grand Master's address that arrangements satisfactory to both Grand Lodges are under way so that it is certain that fraternal relations will shortly be resumed.
As a matter of information we will say that the Grand Master of New Hampshire paid no more attention to our Grand Master's communication than did. Grand Master AFRICA when the difference of
opinion as to proper documentary evidence first came up several years ago. The facts are the Grand Masters of New Hampshire have been discourteous to the extreme and so far as the writer is concerned the time has passed for him to even hope or wish that fraternal relations with New Hampshire should be restored. Brother JENKS also ventures the statement that the requirement of
documentary evidence is as old as the installation ceremony. We do not expect to enter into an argument in this report, but in justice to the position taken by our Grand Lodge, and in support of the statement of the writer that the requiring of documentary evidence was of recent. origin will say that the old and ancient documents, and which are even at this time issued by Grand Lodges in foreign jurisdictions, are not of the kind or character as the American forms of documentary evidence; in other words, if each Grand Lodge were to comply with the position taken by the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire every Grand Lodge would be compelled to have a law authorizing their Grand Secretary to carry in stock various forms of documentary evidence issued by Grand Lodges with which they are in fraternal correspondence and where a brother desired to visit a lodge in any other Grand Jurisdiction he would be obliged to apply to the Grand Secretary of hisown jurisdiction for the specific form applicable to that Grand Lodge. Such a procedure of course would be impracticable as it is seldom where a brother is going away from home that he anticipates before
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hand visiting any lodge. Therefore, he would not be possessed of t h e required document in order to mingle with his brethren. We might add much more; however, the above must suffice for the present. FRED J. MARIBN, M.-.W.'.Grand Master, Milwaukee. WILLIAM W . PERRY, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Milwaukee. ALDRO JENKS, P .•. G .'. M .•., Correspondent, Dodgeville. Next Annual, Milwaukee, June 8, 1926.
WYOMING-1924. Lodges, 43; members, 7,207; net gain, 334. Laramie, August 27, 1924. J. W. STUCHELL, M.-.W.-.Grand Master. We are pleased to quote the following from the Grand Master's address: Masonic activities in some localities have been almost wholly confined to the making of Masons. We must awaken to the larger opportunities of this day and in our own safe, sane, intelligent American way meet the new problems that are confronting us—and with rnalice toward none, and with friendship for all, fulfill the mission of this Fraternity. Every Mason should contribute his bit to the welfare of the community in which he lives, and stand for the integrity of the law and obedience to the constituted authority. 1 sometimes wonder if we are not altogether too lenient with some who hold membership with us, and who, by their own acts, either break the law or flirt so close to the edge of the troubled waters as to endanger the peace and harmony of the lodge itself in some communities. Let us not be timid about these matters, lest by our silence we may be judged as giving consent. Under "Decisions" the Grand Master ruled that Yellow Stone Park was distinctly within their jurisdiction as it was embraced within the specific lines as provided in the act of admission of the state of Wyoming to the Union. During the deliberations the Grand Master introduced Brother MELVILLE C . BROWN, the only member now living within the jurisdiction who was present at the organization of the Grand Lodge fifty years ago. , We quote the following from Brother BROWN'S remarks: I happen to be today the only one left of those who were present a t the formation of our Grand Lodge in 1874. There were representatives present from each of the four lodges then existing in Wyoming. The second session of the Grand Lodge was also in Laramie. The third session was in Cheyenne, and, fortunately, I was in attendance at each of these sessions. Now, today, I am feeling a little worn out and am unable to say much t o you of interest. I t has been said that man's conscience or spirit is greater than a city. I want to say to you that a man who lives up to his obligations as a Mason cannot be otherwise than a good man. I know it has happened to me. I am here now as some sort of a representative of this first and oldest organization. I am getting old and feeble. My time is not long to be with you, but I want to say in these, my last days, that
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February,
my heart goes out to Masons everywhere and under all conditions. I know, as I shall go down to the dark valley and across the river,, that warm and gentio hands will be reached out to greet me, hands of Masons whom I have known for years and years in this world. I t cannot be long until I must pass away. I t cannot be long until I go down into the dark valley t o cross the river t o the evergreen shore, and I know I shall meet many warm and gentle friends who will pilot me across the river and greet me on the evergreen shore. I will not detain you longer. I will say "farewell and GOD be with you."
The Proceedings include a historical sketch of the Grand Lodge and a program followed on Wednesday, being the Fiftieth Anniversay of the Grand Lodge. As an introduction to this subject we find an excellent likeness of the first seven Grand Officers, followed by one of Brother BROWN, the only member now living in the jurisdiction who was a part of the organization. Then follows as a heading to the historical sketch a picture of one of the famous ox teams, hitched to an old fashioned prairie schooner. The sketch is interesting throughout; however, as it appeals more to the local membership than outside, we refrain from quoting any portion of it. The Report on Correspondence was prepared by the Grand Secretary, Brother JOSEPH M . LOWNDES, and includes a review of our
1924 Proceedings. JOHN I E A KIRBY, M.-.W.-.Grand Master, Buffalo. J0SBI>H M. LOWNDES, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary and Corres-
pondent, Casper. Next Annual, Sheridan, August 19, 1925.
317
COBBESPONDENCE—APPENDIX:
1925-26.
M E M B E R S H I P GRAND LODGES. Statistical table showing membership of Grand Lodges. Compiled by E.-.W.-. ALBEUT ' K . WILSON, for the Kansas Committee on Correspondence. February. 1926.
Grand
Lodge.
Ohio
Utah
Total U. S
No. of Lodges. 578 35 561 534 157 120 22 34 250 680 77 979 557 555 547 613 268 206 • 118 312 485 297 386 659 133 290 23 226 56 956 458 124 601 437 161 •54;i 40 287 172 473 967 25 103 352 265 166 297 43 16,226 1
Year.
1924 1925 1924 1925 1924 1925 1924 1924 1925 1924 1924 1925 1925 1925 1925 1924 1925 1925 1924 1924 1925 1925 1925 1924 1924 1925 1925 1925 1925 1925 1925 1925 1924 1925 1924 a924 1925 1925 1925 1925 1924 1925 1925 1925 1924 1924 1925 1924
Membership. ' • • " •
•
52,369 • 5,688 '35,952 • 115,517 30,251 • 42,906 • 5,860 • 22,113 25,871 , 70,267. 9,500 279,596 : 124,102 85,707 80,174 72,603 34,497 42,981 31,297 120,119 143,317 • 58,092 34,700 109,897 19,887 40,287 2,687 82,827 6,421 311,270 40,609 15,070 : 187,701 66,662 26;825 199,840 17,623 29,440 19,296 47,658 128,880 4,734 18,682 45,561 42,807 32,224 54,827 7,207 3,082,401
Net Gain. 2,243 244 2,840 7,341 1,050 1,700145 981 l;643 • 2;923 365 8,222 3,129 1,836 2,133 1;577 1,283 425 808 4,534 4,343 2,183 1,392 2;S56 454 702 58 4,358 258 12,236 954 37. 7,913 3,869 .1,494 -6,181; 591 723 331 2,314 6,001 232 226 1,931 1,206 2,463 334 111,062
Net Loss.
318
COBBESPONDENCE—APPENDIX.
February,
OTHER GRAND LODGES RECOGNIZED BY THE GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS. Grand Lodge.
Chile
Mexico (York G .'.IJ .•.)
No. of Lodges.
Year.
139 115 510 68 12 S 153 6 4,005 15
1925 1925 1925 1923 1925 1923 1922 1924 1924 1925
12,350 13,393 105,339 4,000 600 275 12,275 475 320,000 650
1924 1925 1924 1924 1924 1924 1925 ' 1924 1924 1925 1925 1924 1925 1924 1924 1925 1924 1925 1925 1925 1925
50,000 11,400 938 5,739 55,269 22,790 9,962 400 , 1,900 6.788 1,169 4,800 13,703 20,000 182 12,969 260,000 11,727 3,346 34,583 6,870
676 131 4,251 860
650 100 15 44 437 270 79 6 15 92 15 52 80 317 6 177 867 112 40 325 102
Membership Last Beport.
Net Gain. 333 618 3,243 22
322 21 365 4,631 1,470 383 131 103
289 497 1,000 577
Total Membership... U. S. Totals-
8,829 16,226
1,003,892 3,082,401
19,923 111,062
Grand Total
25,055
4.086.293
130.985
Net Loss.
CORRESPONDENCE—APPENDIX.
1925-26.
319
CONSOLIDATED STATISTICAL A P P E N D I X . Prepred by ALBERT K . WILSON, Grand Secretary and Grand Recorder,
Kansas Correspondent, February, 1926. Grand Lodge. 52,369 5,688 35,952 115,517 30.251 42,906 5,860 22,113 25,871 70,267 9,500 279,596 124,102 85,707 80,174 72,603 34,497 42,981 31,297 120,119
15,488 1,306 8,044 23,646 8,038 16,152 2,065 6,611 7,948 19,158 2,702 86,410 33,019 23,944 21,723 20,287 9,140 17,398 9,494 40,724
143,317 58,092 34,700 109,897 19,887 40,287 2,687
45,810 16,462 7,729 35,706. 4,839 8,228 645 5,886 19,328 1,973 69,906 8,133 4,168 77,224 14,420 6,951 59,117 8,817 6,629 6,380 11,039 42,951 1,202 5,982 16,765 8,520 11.913 23.444 2,143
82,827 0,421 311,270 40,609 15,070 187,701 66.662 26,825 199,840 17,623 29,440 19,296 47,658 128,880 4,734 18,682 45,561 42,807 32,224 54,827 7,207
Ohio
Utah.;
Totals General
Grand
Chapter
General
Grand
Council
Grand Chapter.
3,082,401
905,507
Grand Council. 5,495 552 1,525 8,748 2,426 10,488 1,699 1,745 6,140 23,427 19,533 7,387 6,551 5.059 1,985 8,349 4,919 15,544 15,754 3,169 4,217 11,800 919 3,415 134 3.726 3,930 12,701 1,829 848 43,447 5,072 2,097 14,857 5,853 4,403 • 1,414 2,721 37,259
Grand Comd'y. 8,867 802
2,685 12,501 4,791 6,164 3,429 4,768 8,547 1.646 34,894 13.032 12,543 14,571 10,140 2,984 9,444 4,636 26,375 15,296 7,660 4,175 16,747 2,708 4,551 302
3,526 7,121 1,344 36,490 4,981 2,336 32,684 7,200 3.804 40,456 4,124 3,722 4,903 18,160 794
1,946 2,810 8,106 323,999
3,711 7,219 4,437 6,785 10,199 1,491 439,745
11502 1,046
Grand Encampment Sub-
1,611
United States Totals Foreign Totals
3,082,401 1,003,892
907,009 138,928
325,045 1,655
441,356 15,921
Grand Totals
4.086.293
1,045,937
326,700
457.277
320
CdBBESPONDENCE—APPENDIX.
February,
F O R E I G N GRAND BODIES. Grand Lodge.
Chile
:.
12.350 13,393 105,339 4,000 600 275 12,275 475 320,000
Gt and Chapter. 2,752 2,549 25,315
70,000
650
50,000 11,400 Mexico (York Grand Lodge)....
Totals Grand Totals
938 5,739 55,269 22,790 9,962 400 1,900 6,788 1,169 4,800 13,703 20,000 182 12,969 260,000 11,727 3,346 34,583 6,870 1,003,892 3,082,401 4.086,293
15,000 1,610
Grand Council.
Grand Comd'y. 11,813
272
727
,
4,108
656
1,573 3,414 3,627 2,690
3,351 481 2,637 3,275 654 138,928 907,009 1,045,937
1,655 325,045 326,700
15,921 441,35& 457,277
PROCEEDINGS
M;.W;. GRAND LODGE ANCIENT; FREE AND-ACCEPTED MASONS
KANSAS. SEVENTY-FIRST ANNUAL COMMUNICATION, H E L D IN THE CITY OF WICHITA, KANSAS, February 23 and 24, A. D. 1927, A. L. 5927.
VOLUME XX, PART 3. M.-.W.-. CHARLES N. FOWLER, Grand Master, Salina. R.-. W.-. ALBERT K. WILSON, Grand Secretary, Topeka.
Published by Order of the M .-.W.-. Grand Lodge.
1927.
JOHN
W.
NEILSO
GRAND l\1ASTER,
February 25 , 1926, to Februat·y 24. 1927.
GRAND OFFICERS FOR 1927. M.-.W/. CHARLES N . FOWLER R.-. W/. FERRIS M . HILL R.-. W.'.GEORGE F . BEEZLBY R.;. W.-.JAY B . KIRK
Grand Master Salina. Deputy Grand Master ..Emporia. Grand Senior Warden..Girard. Grand Junior Warden..lo\a.
R/. W.-. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH
Grand Treasurer
R.-. W.-.ALBERT K . WILSON..:
Grand Secretary
Bro. and Rev. JOHN WESLEY BATES..Grawd Chaplain
W.-. JOHN M . KINKEL W.-.PERRY E . MILLER W.-. ROBERT LENON W.-. WILLIAM E . CAIN W.'.LAUREN D . RIGG W.'.R. NELSON LONG W.-.HOMER T . HARDEN W.-.W. AMEB BURNETT
Grand .Grand Grand Grand ..Grand Grand Grand .Grand
Lawrence.
Topeka. Salina,
Senior Deacon....Topeka. Junior Deacow..Wellington. Marshal Salina. Sword Bearer Perry. Senior Steward..heon. Junior Steward.HoKie. Pursuivant Wichita, Tyler... Oberlin.
PLACE OF MEETING—1928. The seventy-second Annual Communication of the M.'. W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas, will be held in the city of Topeka, Kansas, on the fourth Wednesday, being the 22nd day of February, A. D. 1928, A. L. 5928, at 9 o'clock A. M.
PRBSS OF KHTOHESON PRINTING CO. I.EAVENWORTH, KANSAS.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE
ML.-. W.-. GRAND LODGK —OF—
A. F . & A. M. OF KANSAS.
SEVENTY-FIRST ANNUAL COMMUNICATION. February 23, 1927. The M.-. W.". Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas convened in Annual Communication in the Scottish Rite Temple, in the city of Wichita, Kansas, Wednesday, the 23rd day of February, A. D. 1927, A. L. 5927, at 8:30 A. M. WICHITA, KANSAS,
GRAND OFFICERS PRESENT. M.'.W.-.JoHN W. NEILSON... R.-. W.". CHARLES N . FOWLER R.-. W.'. FERRIS M . HILL R.-. W.-. GEORGE F . BEEZLEY
Grand Master Concordia. Deputy Grand Master ..Salina.. Grand Senior Warden ..Emporia.. Grand Junior Warden..Girard.
R.-. W.-. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH.Grand Treasurer
R.-. W.'.ALBERT K . WILSON Grand Bro. and Rev. FRED E . BROOKS....Grond W.-.JAY B . KIRK Grand W.'.GLICK FOCKELE Grand W.'.ALVA L . SWEARINGEN Grand W.-. WILLIAM B . PENNY Grand W.'. CLARENCE R . ATEN Grand W.'.FRANK D . SPERRY Grand W.'.HOMER T . HARDEN Grand W.'.W. AMER BURNETT Grand
Lawrence.
Secretary Topeka. Chaplain Topeka. Senior Deacon....lola. Junior Deacon ..he "Roy. Marshal Kansas City. Sword Bearer Cottonwood Falls. Senior Steward ..Dodge City. Junior Steward.Ellsworth. Pursuivant Wichita. Tyler Oberlin.
OPENING CEREMONY.
A constitutional number of lodges being represented, the M.'. W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was opened in Ample Form, after an invocation of divine blessing by Rev. FRED E . BROOKS, Grand Chaplain.
570
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February;
OPENING PRAYER.
O GOD, again we desire gladly and humbly to acknowledge Thee ,as the Author of life and the Maker of all things. In holy love Thou dost create, sustain and order them all. They come into being at Thy command; they endure because Thou hast established them for ever and ever. O GOD, Thou art our GOD! Thy goodness leads us to repentance. We confess unto Thee our proneness to error, our inclination to evil and our slothfulness in doing good. In the pride of our hearts we have exalted ourselves, boasting that the genius of our minds and the might of our own hands hath gotten us gain. In Thy Mercy, 0 GOD, forgive us, and by the blessedness and joy of Thy forgiveness enable us more and more to seek Thy truth and to walk in Thy way. We beseech Thy gracious blessing upon this Grand Lodge. I t is erected to Thee, O GOD. It is dedicated to the holy Saints JOHN. Thy greatest gift to man, the Holy Bible, as our spiritual Trestle Board, is in our midst, pointing out our whole duty to Thee and to each other. Therefore, do Thou take complete charge of this Grand Lodge and have Thy perfect way with us. May our M.\ W.". Grand Master, especially, have the assurance of Thy favor in the discharge of the duties of his office, and likewise all associated with him in the performance of their work. May our thought and care for the widow and orphan be affectionate, kind and generous. May our judgment of men and Masons be always tempered with mercy, yet faithful to the ideals of our Order. Should moments of irritation and passion arise, may patience still be ours and the grace of self-control. In the discussion of any measure, if the way be not clear before us, grant that we may patiently wait before Thee until Thou dost incline Thy face and the desired direction is given. Finally, 0 GOD, having been our guide and stay in the past, do Thou now unite our wills in cheerful obedience and our hearts in sympathy and love, that we may help advance the ideals of Masonry everywhere. And do Thou, 0 Blessed Lord, continue the work of Thy salvation, until there shall ascend from the great human family the universal chorus of praise: Praise ye the Lord. Praise ye the Lord from the heavens: praise Him in the heights. Praise ye Him, all His angels: praise ye Him, all His hosts. Kings of the earth, and all people: princes, and all judges of the earth: Both young men, and maidens: old men, and children: Let them praise the name of the Lord; for His name alone is excellent; His glory is above the earth andheaven. Amen and Amen!
1926-27.
GRAND LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
571
WELCOME TO VISITORS. T h e M.-. W.-. G r a n d M a s t e r e x t e n d e d a c o r d i a l i n v i t a t i o n t o all M a s t e r M a s o n s in good s t a n d i n g t o a t t e n d this Annual Communication. EXPRESSION OF SYMPATHY TO M.-.W/. OWEN J. WOOD. On motion, t h e G r a n d Secretary w a s instructed t o conv e y t h e s y m p a t h y of t h e G r a n d L o d g e t o M.-. W.". O w E N J. W O O D , who was unable to attend this Annual Comm u n i c a t i o n o n a c c o u n t Of illness. INTRODUCTION OF GRAND REPRESENTATIVES.
The Grand Secretary called the roll of Grand Representatives near the Grand Lodge of Kansas, who were introduced by W.-. ALVA L . SWEARINGEN, Grand Marshal, and were welcomed by the M.". W.". Grand Master. Suitable acknowledgment of the reception accorded them was made by M.-. W.-. CHARLES A. LOUCKS, Grand Representative of South Dakota. REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON CREDENTIALS.
W.-. ROBERT H . MONTGOMERY, chairman, submitted the following report, which, on motion, was adopted: To the M:. W:. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: Your Committee on Credentials begs leave to report the following members and representatives present and entitled to seats in this Grand Lodge: GRAND OFFICERS.
M.-.W.-. JOHN W . NEILSON R.-. W.-. CHARLES N . FOWLER R.-. W.-. FERRIS M . HILL R.-. W.-. GEORGE F . BEEZLEY
Grand Master. Deputy Grand Master. Grand Senior Warden. Grand Junior Warden.
R.-. W.-. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH R.-. W.-. ALBERT K . WILSON Bro. and Rev. FRED E . BROOKS
Grand Treasurer. Grand Secretary. Grand Chaplain.
W.-. JAY B . KIRK W-'. CLICK FOCKELE
Grand Senior Deacon. Grand Junior Deacon.
W.-. ALVA L . SWEARINGEN
Grand Marshal.
W.-. WILLIAM B. PENNY W.-. CLARENCE R . ATEN W.-. FRANK D . SPERRY
Grand Sword Bearer. Grand Senior Steward. Grand Junior Steward.
W.-. HOMER T . HARDEN W.-. W. AMER BURNETT
Grand Pursuivant. Grand Tyler.
572
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SUB-OFFICERS.
Bro. CHARLES M . HARGER
Grand Orator.
Bro. FREDERIC H . WILSON
Assistant to Grand Secretary.
Bro. LEON L . COUSLAND
Official Stenographer.
Bro. WILLIAM J. BOND
Assistant Grand Tyler.
W.-. HARVEY 0 . DAVIS W.-. STANFORD M . SMART
Lecturer. Lecturer.
Year of
PAST GRAND MASTERS.
5^^^.^^
M . - . W . - . P E R R Y M . HOISINGTON M.-.W.-. THOMAS G . FITCH M.-.W.-. THOMAS L . BOND M.-.W.-. HENRY F . MASON M.-.W.-. WILLIAM EASTON HUTCHISON M.-.W.-. ELRICK C . COLE M.-.W.-. WILLIAM L . BURDICK M.-.W.-. G I L E S H . LAMB
1901 1904 1906 1908 1912 1913 1915 1916
M.-.W.-. B E N S. PAULEN
1921
M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-.
1922 1923 1924 1925
JOHN MCCULLAGH RICHARD E . BIRD ELMER F . STRAIN CHARLES A. LOUCKS DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND M A S T E R S .
District No.
District No. PAUL M . MARTIN RAYMOND A. N E V I N HERBERT E . JULIEN P R E D ROY ALFORD...; EDGAR T . POSTER J O H N F . WYATT A. PHILLIP LAPHAM GEORGE O . FOSTER EDWARD C . STARIN -JAMES A. CAMPBELL EDWIN C . EAGLES ENOCH E . BROOKS
1 2 5 8 9 10 11 13 14 15 16 17
XiEwis W. DAVIS
18
WILLIAM P . ROOT GEORGE BURNS GLICK FOCKELE JAMES H . BEEGLE,.... IVAN E . GENTRY ROY H . W I S E ROY G . SHEARER JAMES A. CASSLER J O E L DAVIS CLAUDE O . CONKEY
21 22 23 24 29 31 32 33 34 35
EDGAR W . INGRAM PERRY E . MILLER DAVID A. NYWALL CHARLES S . LOCKLIN WILBUR M . BENEFIEL L E W I S G . JENNINGS JOSEPH E . BREAKEY CLARE C . GAVIN RALPH C . STEINER
36 37 38 40 42 43 45 47 48
RoscoE E. PETERSON
50
BENJAMIN H. FLYR JOSEPH C . HART CLARENCE M . CROSBY R. NELSON LONG GILBERT C . LENZ JOHN B . FLEMING BARLUS ROMSTEDT HARVEY B . BRENEMAN ELMER S . NANCE BERT WILLIAMS PAUL B . HOFFMANN JAMES B . PORTER JAMES H . TRICE
51 52 53 54 58 59 60 62 63 65 68 74 75
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE OF
KANSAS.
573
GRAND REPRESENTATIVES. Alabama W.'.JoHN M. KINKEL. Alberta W . ' . P A U L M . MARTIN. Arizona W.'.W. AMER BURNETT. British Columbia W.'.A. PHILLIP LAPHAM. California M.'.W.-.WILLIAM EASTON HUTCHISON. Chile W . - . F R E D ROY ALFORD. Colombia W.-.ELLSWORTH B . SEWELL, J R . Colorado....; W.-.LAURBN D . RIGG. Connecticut W.-. CLARENCE R . ATEN. Cuba W.-.RoY H. CLOSSEN. Delaware W.-.ELMER S. NANCE. District of Columbia R.-. W . . F E R R I S M . HILL. Ecuador W.-.JAY B. KIRK. England R.-. W.-.ALBERT K . WILSON. Florida M.-.W.".ELMER F . STRAIN. Georgia W.-.GLICK FOCKELE. Guatemala W.-.LUCIEN L . CONSTANT. Honduras W.-.FRANK D . SPERRY. Illinois R.-. W.-. CHARLES N . FOWLER. Ireland ° W.-.JOHN DAVIS. Louisiana W . ' . H O M E R T . HARDEN. Maine M.'.W.-.RICHARD E . BIRD. Maryland W.-. MOSES H . COLE. Mexico (York Grand Lodge) R.-. W.-.ALBERT K . WILSON. Michigan W.-.GEORGE T . MOHRBACHER. Minnesota .W.-. CLARENCE E . FARNSWORTH, Mississippi W . - . E D W I N C . EAGLES. Missouri M . - . W . - P E R R Y M . HOISINGTON. Montana :.... W.-.JAMES H . BEEGLB. Nebraska W.-.EARL T . PYLB. New Brunswick: W.-. HARRY E. PEACH. New York R.-. W.-.GEORGE F . BEEZLEY. North Dakota W.-.BRUCE GRIFFITH. Nova Scotia.. M.-.W.-.JOHN MCCULLAGH. Ohio W.-.JOSBPH D. FELL. Panama W.-.JAMES A. CASSLER. Philippine Islands W.-.ROY G. SHEARER. Prince Edward Islands W.-. MARION M . MILLER. Puerto Rico M.-.W.-.WILLIAM L . BURDICK. Quebec W.-. CHARLES W . MILLER, J R . Queensland M.-.W.-.ELRICK C . COLE. Rhode Island R--. W..WILLIAM FRANK MARCH. Saskatchewan W.-.JOHN B . FLEMING. Scotland W.-.HARVEY O . DAVIS. South Australia.... W.-. RICHARD W . EVANS. South Carolina W.-.OTTO R. SOUDERS.
574 South Dakota Tasmania Tennessee Texas Vermont Victoria Virginia Washington West Virginia Western Australia
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
M - . W / . C H A R L E S A. LOUCKS. M . W . - . B B N S. P.AULEN. W.-. HUBERT H . HUBBARD.
:.
M .W.-. G I L E S H . LAMB. M, .W.-. HENRY F . MASON.
M M.
W.-. CLARENCE M . CROSBY. W.-.BARLUS ROMSTEDT. W.-. STANFORD M . SMART. . W . - . J O H N W . NEILSON. .W.-. THOMAS G . FITCH.
PAST MASTERS. FRED T . N Y E No. BENJAMIN F . H E I S P H I L I P EUGENE STOTLER. HOLMES W . HAVILAND .... JAMES E . PORTER THOMAS B . W E B B CHARLES L. HIXON D E R B Y SHARPE ELIJAH M . OWEN CLARENCE E . BIRCH JAMES E . VANDERVORT.... WALTER S. H U F F LiNDLEY L . L E F L E R PAUL A. LANGB JOHN H . PARKER D A N I E L REILLY EARL E . FAWCETT ALBERT H . THOMAS ERNEST V. LINDAMOOD... WILLIAM H . HARRISON... ROBERT H . BEACH DwiGHT E . C O O K ARTHUR J . RHODES JAMES W . MCCOLLOCH.... GEORGE W . MCCLELLAND NATHAN B . THOMPSON .... HOMER C . ANDERSON F R E D A. BOUCHER GEORGE M . KLUSMIRE .... GEORGE HARMON CLAUDE C . PATTERSON.... MARION M . MILLER FRANK D . MATHIAS J O H N H . OSBORN GEORGE M . COPLIN
2 2 3 3 3 3 5 5 6 6 7 8 8 9 9 10 12 12 12 12 12 16 16 16 17 17 17 18 20 21 24 26 29 29 37
SEAMAN A. ELLIS No. L E O N . GISH JOHN V. HANNAH WILLIAM R . DOHRN CARL F . MATTMILLER EDGAR D . MAY EDWARD J. FLETCHER RICHARD H . CRAVENS . JOSEPH H.'COFFMAN ROBERT H.MONTGOMERY RAYMOND L . DELONG JOHN M . PLEASANT JOSEPH F . SEYMOUR ELZA W . R E E L WINSTON Z . M C K E A N OLIVER M . ANDERSON CHARLES 0 . VARNER CHARLES A. REMY MARK F . BIVINS CHARLES I. MORRIS JAMES B . D E V I E R HARRY E . ATCHISON STANLEY H . GRAHAM ELBERT S. SLAGLE WILLIAM D . GRIMES E L D O N J. COULSON WALDEMAR VONRIESEN... WALTER R . BREEDING GEORGE T . MOHRBACHER RAY N . HARDIN ERNEST L . BROWN GLEN CHAMBERLAIN FRED W . SMITH OTTO R . SOUDERS JAMES F . MCCOY
38 38 46 49 50 51 58 fiO 62 63 63 66 68 68 68 72 74 80 81 86 86 86 86 86 86 86 91 91 91 93 95 99 99 99 99
1926-27.
GRAND
CHENAULT C . GENTRY No. ROY H . CLOSSEN ARTHUR L. SEVERANCE.... CASPER P. SWANK LEROY E . SAWIN JAMES C. MORROW ALVA CARPENTER JAMES M . JACOBY ELLIS FINK LOUIS F . HEYDECKER IVAN E . GENTRY JOHN R . FORBES JOSEPH D . PELL MARCELLUS B . ATKISSON MYLES P . PEMBER HARVEY R . R E E D THOMAS L . EADES EDWARD J. MCQUILLEN .. VERNON H. BRANCH HERBERT 0. KELLY JOHN DAVIS RALPH MATHEWS P. MARION STEWART HARRY L . B U R N E T T EARL T . PYLE JOHN S. RIGG JOHN M . KINKEL ALBERT O. JUSTICE ARTHUR C . BROWN JOHN A. HETZEL RAY A . COOK OLIVER E . MURDICK EARL L . MAGATHAN CLARENCE J. WELLS GEORGE B . DEAN CHARLES R . ALGER SOLOMON U . DUNFIELD.... OPIE O. MOWREY WILLIAM L . BUNTON CLARENCE E . THOMPSON BERTINE P . WALKER RICHARD E . THOES FERDINAND C . STUEWE.... ELMER E . MEYER ANDERS SORENSEN WILLIS M . ALDRIDGE LUCIAN L . CONSTANT
LODGE OF 99 102 102 103 104 104 105 107 110 110 110 113 113 115 117 117 121 122 125 128 129 131 132 133 134 140 140 141 141 142 142 143 147 150 150 151 152 153 153 155 160 161 161 170 172 172 173
KANSAS.
WILBUR C . MARKLEY No. JOHN E . STOWELL LEANDER M . PACE JOHN SWANSON GEORGE W . TROUT CARL F . COOPER GEORGE W . SUGGS ADOLPH R . KLITZING HUBERT H . HUBBARD FRANK A. K I L E JOHN J. RECHT ROBERT P . MCCOLLOCH .. HARVEY O . DAVIS HERMAN GARRETT MOSES H . COLE CLARENCE H . WESTFALL OWEN F . JONES GROVER C . BRITTAIN OBADIAH R . STILWELL GEORGE C . LEINEN CHARLES R . HERALD CHARLES E . WARD RICHARD W . EVANS EDWARD 0. THOMPSON... CLARENCE G . NEVINS WILLIAM E . OTT LAUREN D . RIGG ARLEY M . KISTLER JOHN A. DIXON SAMUEL ALEXANDER WILLIAM C. CARTLIDGE... HOMER B . FINK ELISHA G. MINARD BURPEE E . THOMPSON CLIFFORD G . MILLER JAMES F . AYRES CLEVELAND T . MARTIN... CHESTER A. CARTER LOUIS M . TRISSELL MARTIN H . GRANT BENJAMIN F . ZOOK OSCAR S . PIPKIN HARVEY S. MCINTOSH CHARLES R . MAWDSLEY .. CHARLIE E . CALE HENRY L . GAMES JOSEPH H . JONES
575 173 179 180 182 187 189 193 193 194 197 199 200 200 201 206 206 206 207 212 214 217 219 222 222 222 222 223 223 223 225 225 225 227 230 230 232 236 246 246 251 255 258 258 265 267 269 269
576
PROCEEDINGS
EDWARD F . ANDERSON . . . N O . BENJAMIN F. WEST HARRISON D . BURCHELL.. • IRA SCOTT JOSEPH C . CORFMAN D O N S . FARMAN ALFRED A. PETERSON HARRY J. JACKMAN J. LAWTON STANLEY
269 269 273 275 280 284 288 290 295
AusTA L. PARSONS
295
HADDOCK W . LANE HENRY WALLENSTEIN...... BENJAMIN F . DUNKIN GEORGE M . LOWRY BRUCE GRIFFITH KENNETH M . KIER GEORGE B . CARTWRIGHT.. JAMES A. CLARK HENRY G . SEELYE WILLIAM A. THOMPSON.... F R E D M . THOMPSON MARION E . WELCH RUSSELL J. PATERSON EARL S. BROWN WILLIAM A. WEIKAMP .... ROBERT LBNON RALPH D . H I L L BEARL CONNER JAMES W . CLELAND CURTIS R . WILLIAMS CHARLES E . HETRICK P E T E R H . BESTHORN DANIEL C . BAER WILLIAM J . CROSBY
300 303 803 303 303 303 303 303 303 307 307 307 307 308 311 321 326 326 327 328 332 343 346 347
OF THE
February,
ROBERT B . PORTER No. EARL H . ADAMS FREDERICK C . LARSBN .... RANSOM STEPHENS J E S S E GUY BATCHELOR..., E U G E N E S. TALCOTT J O E DEMAIN WILLIAM C . BECKER RALPH M . HARDER CHARLES HIBBSCH STANFORD M . SMART BENJAMIN F. SHOOP ROGER C . TOMPKINS CLAUDE J. BROWN OSCAR A. BROWN EMORY E . FLEMING HARVEY A. THOMAS EDSON J. LUNGER RALPH HARROUFF ANDREW 0. BARNES WAYNE C . ALFORD ABRAHAM PETERS EDWARD H . FROMME BAYARD J. LONG GEORGE T . BROWN DAVID C . KAY L A V E L L E C . HICKS CLYDE S . SHELLEY EDGAR W . INGRAM JAMES A. CARTER WILLIAM KIMBALL FRANK W . SQUIER... CLARENCE J. STEWART .... ADOLPHUS F . BENNETT...
347 354 359 362 362 364 371 371 378 378 378 379 382 382 383 384 389 393 394 398 399 399 399 409 412 414 424 433 433 435 439 439 441 447
LODGE REPRESENTATIVES.
Smithton No. 1.—ROY A. NOLL, M . , proxy for S. W.; PAUL M . MARTIN,
proxy for J. W. Leavenworth No. 2.—CHARLES
R . MOORE, M . ; RAYMOND E . BIBEE,
S. W.; BENJAMIN F . H E I S , proxy for J. W. Wyandotte No. 3.—DAVID
H . VANCE, M . ; .CHARLES W . ANDERSON,
S. W.; ROY V. HOWLETT, proxy for J. W.
Washington No. 5.—SAMUEL J. W.
W . CONNOR, proxy for M., S. W. and
Lawrence No. 6.—JAMES NAISMITH, M . , proxy for J. W.; JOHN J. KiSTLER, S. W.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
577
Union No. 7.—JAMES SANDERLIN, M . , proxy for J. W.; JAMES E . LANG, S . W . Rising Sun No. 8.—CLAUDE F. YOUNG, M . ; JESSE C . BRIGGS, S . W . ; CHARLES W . WILLIAMS, J. W. Acacia No. 9.—ERNEST E . FELLERS, M . , proxy for J. W.; SAMUEL HURWITZ, S. W . King Solomon No. 10.—WAYLAND W . BENNETT, M . ; DEWITT T . WRIGHT, S. W . ; WILLIAM T . WAHLER, J. W. Jewell No. 11.—ELNATHAN Emporia
B . GRAY, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
No. 12.—FRED
J. BROWN, M . ; EARL R . WEIMER, S . W . ;
JOHN A. MYERS, J. W. Great Bend No. 15.—CHARLES
S. DORFSHAFFER, M . , proxy for S. W.;
WILLIAM G . JONES, proxy for J. W. Lafayette No. 16.—HERBERT
W . BATCHELOR, S . W . , proxy for M. and
J. W. Topeka No. 17.—PERCY
L . R E E D , M . ; SCOTT E . KELSEY, S. W . ;
GEORGE E . SEYBOLD, J. W. Ottawa No. 18.—FRED
A. BOUCHER, proxy for M.; BARLUS ROMSTEDT,
proxy for S. W.; JOHN P. KELLER, proxy for J. W. Olathe No. 19.—ELMER
L . GALLAWAY, M . , proxy for S. W.; WARREN
H. RoSENBURY, proxy for J. W. Circleville No. 20.—GUY NELSON, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Valley Falls No. 21.—HERBERT
A. MURRAY, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Palmyra No. 23.—FRANK
W . KERNS, M . , proxy for S. W. and S. W.
Osage Valley No, 2Jf.—BRUCE
V. DICKEY, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Longion No. 26.—HOTCHKISS
MORGRIDGE, J R . , M . , proxy for S. W.
and J. W. Pacific No. 29.—JOHN
H . OSBORN, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Towanda No. 30.—ANDREW
.
J. RALSTON, M . , proxy for S. W.; CHESLEY
' N. HAWK, J. W. Arcana No. 31.—FRANK
CASE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Hiawatha No. 35.—WILLIAM
F . HARRIS, S. W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
Council Grove No. 36.—GEORGE R. THOMASON, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Paola No. 37.—JAMES F . BRANDON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. lola No. 38.—GLENN
A. FREEMAN, M . , proxy for J. W.; SEAMAN A.
ELLIS, proxy for S. W. Seneca No. 39.—ALBERT
^
W . WARD, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
De Soto No. JfO.—WILLIAM H . D E N T , M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. McKinley No. Ifl.—LYLE
D . JOHNSTON, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
578
PROCEEDINGS
HoUon.No.
Jf2.—WILLIAM
OF THE
February,
F . THROCKMORTON, M . , proxy for S. W.
and J. W. Easion No. U5.—JOSEPH Xenia No. ^7.—CHRIS Mackey No. iS.—J.
P. HALL, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
B . PRITCHETT, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. RALPH SCHURMAN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Nine Mile No. U9-—WILLIAM R . DOHRN, proxy for M., S. W. and J.W. Lake No. 50.—CARL
F . MATTMILLER, proxy for M., S; W. and J. W.
Orient No. 51.—CHESTER
L . WOODINGTON, M . ; EVAN DAVIS, proxy
for S. W.; HUGH B . MCGRATH, J. W. Wetmore No. 53.—DAVID
C . EBELMESSER, J R . , S. W . , proxy for M.
and J. W. Shawnee No. 5i.—THOMAS
W . DAVIS, proxy for M.;
MAURICE W .
BARTLESON, proxy for S. W. and J. W. Troy No. 55.—GLENN
I. HACKNEY, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
McCracken No. 58.—SILAS
H . SULTZER, M . , proxy for J. W.; EDWARD
J. FLETCHER, proxy for S. W. Salina No. 60.—VICTOR
H . B . NORDLUND, M . ; DONALD R . MAXWELL,
proxy for S. W.; THOMAS P. BUSH, proxy for J. W.
La Cygne No. 61.—Dow D. GOWING, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Ridgeway
No.
62.—CLIFFORD
C . O'BRYHIM,
M . , proxy for J. W.;
CHARLES B . VINCENTT, S . W . Adams No. 63.—WILLIAM
A. FOSTER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Wathena No. 6If.—ERNEST
J. SCHOLZ, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Gardner No. 65.—CARL
HARRIS, M . , proxy for J. W.;
BISHOP G .
•HAYDEN, S. W . Burlington No. 66.—FLOYD S . ECORD, M . , proxy for'S. W. and J. W. Frankfort No. 67.—ALLEN Hiram No. 68.—JOSEPH
P . HARTMAN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. F . SEYMOUR, proxy for M.; ELZA W . R E E L ,
proxy for S. W.; WINSTON Z . M C K E A N , proxy for J. W. Altamont No. '69.—CLARENCE
H . KESSLER, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Carbondale No. 70.—THEODORE
O . W E H R L E , M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Huron No. 72.—OLIVER
M . ANDERSON, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Chetopa No. 73.—ROLLYN
J . CONDERMAN, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Mystic Tie No. 7i.—GEORGE
H . SPILLMAN, M . ; EARNEST C . SKILES,
S. W.; ANDREW L . MCDONALD, J . W . Wamego No. 75.—WILLIAM Erie No. 76.—ABIJAH
E . SMITH, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
W . CAMPBELL, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Delta No. 77.—RAYMOND
S . BENEFIEL, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
579
While Cloud No. 78.—SULLIVAN TRACY, M . ; ROY M . GREEN, proxy for S. W. and J. W. Corinlhian No. 79.—HARRY T . BBALE, M . ; JAMES L . MILLER, S . W . ; ROBERT D . OLIVER, J. W. Zeredatha No. 80.—HENRY H . GIESE, M . ; FRANK C . MAILEN, proxy for S; W.; CHARLES A. REMY, proxy for J. W.
New Albany No. 81.—MARK F . BIVINS, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Doric No. 83.—OTTO A. DURR, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Sulton No. S5.—GEORGE E . DEAN, M . , proxy for S. W.; CHARLES L. HALL, J. W. Sunflower No. 86.—SAMUEL
J. FALLEY, M . ; HARRISON O . BYERS,
proxy for S. W.; BENJAMIN F . H U L L , J. W.
Mankato No. 87.—WARREN H . VINING, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Eureka No. 88.—W. CHESTER KAY, M . , proxy for J. W.; JAMES C . EPLEY, S . W . Golden Rule No. 90.—CLARENCE
E . MAUNEY, M . ; RUDY F . NASH,
S. W.; WILLIAM C . WELLS, J. W . Marysville
No.
91.—ORVILLE
M . WALTON, M . ; FRANK J. OLSON,
proxy for S. W.; EDGAR C . BENNETT, proxy for J. W. Devon No. 92.^-LAWRENCE L . RITCHIE, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Girard No.
93.—FRANK
E . WHITAKBR,
M . ; WILLIAM C . VEATCH,
proxy for S. W.; A. FRANK JOHNSON, J R . , proxy for J. W. Harmony No. 9^.—EMIL W . SHARPE, M . , proxy for J. W.; GEORGE F . HYNDS, S. W .
-
Constellation No. 95.—GUY H . DITTO, proxy for M.; WILLIAM 0 . STARNS, J. W., proxy for S. W. Patmos No. 97.—DUANE
FISK, M . ; WILBER E . ROBBINS, proxy for
S. W.; LEON L . COUSLAND, proxy for J. W.
Benevolent No. 98.—WILLIAM K . PHILLIPS, S. W . , proxy for M.; EARL H . MYERS, J. W . Wichita
No. 99.—CHARLES M . ULSH, M . ; RAYMOND G . SHELLEY,
S. W,; MONTE J. SWEET, J. W.
Prudence No. 100.—JAMES I. SANDERS, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W. Keystone No. 102.—WILLIAM R . MCNEICE, J. W., proxy for M.; WILLIAM GULLEY, S . W .
Cedar No. 103.—CASPER P. SWANK, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Frontier No. iOi.—JOHN V. HEPLER, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W. Solomon City No. 105.—ALVA CARPENTER, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Fortitude No. 107.—CHARLES H . MCWHIRT, J. W., proxy for M.; L E W I S S . GECKELER, proxy for S. W.
580
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Winfield No. 110.—WALTER D . GUY, M . , proxy for S. W.; THOMAS W. RouTSONG, proxy for J. W. Hesperian No. 111.—ANTHONY L . R U F F , M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. St. John's No. lis.—JOHN R . FORBES, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Advance No. IH.—HERMAN
L . HAASIS, M . ; W . RUFUS ICE, S . W . ;
GEORGE W . KIDDOO, J. W.
Excelsior No. 115.—MARCELLUS B . ATKISSON, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Muscotah No. 116.—LLOYD TRIAL, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Parsons No. 117.—CLARENCE E . MAIN, M . , proxy for J. W.; WALTER C. SEHET, proxy for S. W. Cherokee No. 119.—JOSEPH F . ELCHERT, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W. Halcyon No. 120.—JESS D . SHRIVER, S. W . , proxy for M.; ARCHIE C . THOMAS, J. W .
Woodson No. 121.—JOHN M . CABLE, M . , proxy for J. W.; ABRAHAM L. CABLE, proxy for S. W. Clifton No. 122.—EDWARD J. MCQUILLEN, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. . Godfrey No. I2i.—OscAR ANDERSON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Meridian No. 126.—LEE LINDLY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Palestine No. 127.—WILLIAM A. CHAPLIN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Munden No. 128.—WILLIAM F . HUDSON, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W. Belleville No. 129.—EARL A. W E I L , M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Equity No. 131.—ERNEST THORNTON, S. W . , proxy for M. and J. W. Carson No. 132.—DANIEL
S. OTEY, M . ; GEORGE H . TAGGART, S. W . ;
ROBERT H . STEPHENS, J. W. Crescent No. 133.—CHARLES
R . GILLILAND, M . ; JOHN W . RANKIN,
S. W.; WILLIAM B . ECKLEY, proxy for J. W.
Clay Center No. iSlf.—CONRAD
G . JOHNSON, M . , proxy for S. W.;
CLAYTON P . ANDERSON, J. W.
Lenexa No. 135.—HIRAM S . SEIGRIST, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W. Ves-per No. 136.—WILLIAM R . GRAHAM, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Cherryvale No. 137.—ROY H. SHAW, S. W . , proxy for M.; GEORGE E. VANCE, proxy for J. W. Reno No. luO.—IVAN
W . JONES, M . ; RUSSELL H . MILLER, S . W . ;
A. L E W I S OSWALD, J. W. Signal
No. J ^ J . ^ A L B E R T
O . JUSTICE, proxy for M.;
ARTHUR C .
BROWN, proxy for S. W.; PHILIP BURD, proxy for J. W.
Newton No. Ii2.—ROY ALDERTON, J. W.
C . MOLZEN, M . , proxy for S. W.; JOHN T .
1926-27.
GRAND
Minneapolis
LODGE
No. H.3.—RALPH
OF KANSAS.
581
B . LARSON, proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. Gilead No. IH-—WILLIAM
L . CAPPS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Mi. Vernon No. 11,5.—ROY
C . BAKER, M . , proxy for J. W.;
WILLIAM
C. BROWN, J R . , proxy for S. W. Ellsworth No. 11,6.—JAMES A. FORREST, S. W . , proxy for M. and J. W. Center No. 11,7.—ROBERT
M . SALLEE, S. W . , proxy for M.; ROSS ELLIS
CHAPMAN, J. W. Wa-Keeney No. 11,8.—EDWARD R . KEKAUS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Thayer No. 11,9.—WILLIAM
A. WALT, M . , proxy for J. W.;
EDWIN
C. EAGLES, proxy for S. W. Wellington No. 150.—WILLIAM
A. TRIGG, S . W . , proxy for M. and
J. W. Douglass No. 151.—ARTHUR
W . SCOTT, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Leho No. 15Z.—SOLOMON U . DUNFIELD, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Luray No. 153.—WILLIAM
H . LINDSAY, M . , proxy for J. W.; O P I E O .
MowREY, proxy for S. W. Lincoln No. 151,.—WALTER
J. Moss, M.; DENNIS L . SHEETS, S . W . ; -
IVAN D . LYON, proxy for J. W. Hope No. 155.—CLARENCE
E . THOMPSON, proxy for M.;
HENRY H .
JoBEs, S. W.; JAMES S. MCMILLAN, J. W. Haven No. 157.—WILLIAM
J. ZIMMERMAN, M . ; ELMER F . LALICKEB,
S. W.; NORMAN HALL, proxy for J. W. Active No. 158.—THOMAS
S . BRADING, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Robinson No. 159.—Louis
FEVERBACHER, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Saqui No. 160.—GEORGE
E . HOBBIE, S. W . , proxy for M.;
EDWARD
JOHNSON, J. W. Alma No. 161.—FELIX
ITZ, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Sabetha.No. 162.—ELMER
0 . BROWN, S. W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
Atwood No. 161,.—CHARLES A. FOSTER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Farmers No. 166.—ELMER
A. NORDSTROM, M . ; ALBERT V. SCHWARTZ,
S. W.; CHARLES A. HELLER, proxy for J. W. Lamed No. 167.—HARRY
F . GROVE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Blue Rapids No. 169.—C. EARL MCATEE, M . , proxy for J. W . ; EDWARD • DOLEN, S. W. Fraternal No. 170.—HARRY Sterling No. 171.—CHARLES
L . FARIS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. W . DAVIS, M . ; ROY 0 . JOHNSON, .prpxy
for S. W.; HUGO H . RAUSCHELBACH, proxy for J. W. McPherson No. 172.—GRANVIL J. W.
.•
E . HAGSTROM, M . , proxy for S.- W. and,
582
PROCEEDINGS
Belle Plaine
No. 173.—EARL
OF THE
February,
F . CLARK,' M . ; CHARLES A. MOODY,
S. W.; JESSE C . WALTON, J. W. Western Star No. 17Jf.—LEVERETT J. W.
G . W O L F E , M . , proxy for S. W. and
'
Kirwin No. 175.—ISAAC H. HiCKMAN, M., proxy for S. W. and J. W. Russell No. 177.—JOHN
D . STEINLE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Burr Oak No. 178.—ERNEST
G . ROYER, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
Mt. Moriah No. 179.—JOSEPH
M . WORK, M . , proxy for S. W.; WALTER
C. REEDER, proxy for J. W. Bennington
No. 180.—GEORGE
F . WATTS, proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. Lenora No. 181.—RALPH
A. CRANS, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Burrton No. 182.—HERBERT
M . GRUBBS, M . , proxy for J. W.; CLAUDE
- W. MCDAVITT, S . W . Gaylord No. 183.—TRUMAN Phillipsburg
J. STEWART, M . , proxy for S. W. and J . W.
No. 18i.—WILBUR
L . FAUBION, M . , proxy for J. W.;
HARRY C . STONEMAN, proxy for S. W. Hamlin No. 185.—JERRY
L . SHERRER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Mountain Slope No. 186.—RAY DYER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Pittsburg No. 187.—EDWARD
V. GORRELL, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Onaga No. 188.—KARL
S . MCGREW, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Newahcuba No. 189.—GAY LITTON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Walnut Valley No. 191.—MARCUS
T . TALLY, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Royal No. 192.—WILLIAM
D . SANGSTER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Hartford No. 193.—JOHN
V. GILMORE, M . ; MAKIUS J. LALONETTE,
S. W.; ADOLPH R . KLITZING, proxy for J. W. Galena No. J9^.—WILLIAM M . SENTER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Hays No. 195.—WILLIAM
C . WAGNER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Madison No. 196.—CLAUD
M . BOLER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Canton No. 197.—WALTER
J. LINSEMEYER, M . ; JOHN J. EHMAN, S . W . ;
STANLEY W . SMITH, J. W. Blue Hill No. 198.—RALPH
GILBREATH, proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. Norton No. 199.—FRANCIS Anthony
No.
G . KENNEDY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
200.—BENJAMIN
S. BALDWIN,
M . , proxy for S. W.;
CLARENCE E . HOOPES, J. W. Mulvane No. 201.—LESTER
A. CARR, M . ; CHARLES C . MOON, S . W . ;
THEODORE C . CONKLIN, proxy for J. W. Downs No. 20U.—CHARLES
M . GAYLOR, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
, 1926-27.
GRAND
Harper No. 206.—IVEN
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
583
O . BERG, S . W . , proxy for M.; CLAUD C .
BRYANT, J. W.
Occidental No. 207.—CLARENCE L . BARNT, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Greeley No. 211.—WILLIAM H . COMBS, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W. Olive Branch No. 212.—OBADIAH R . STILWELL, proxy for.M., S. W. and J. W. Twin Grove No. 213.—HUGH T . FERGUSON, M . , proxy for J. W.; EDWIN G . ARNOLD, S . W .
Sincerity No. 2H.—LEWIS E . GUIPRB, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Ellinwood No. 217.—LEONARD HELD, M . , proxy for S. W.; EDWARD SESSLER, J. W.
Corner Stone No. 219.—JOHN BERWICK, M . , proxy for J. W.; CHARLES E. WARD, proxy for S. W. Lewis No. 220.—HARRY E . WILSON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Lebanon No. 221 .^-EDWIN T . OLSON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. St. Bernard No. 222.—WILLIAM C . FAY, M . ; TOM STAUTH, S . W . ; CECIL E . DAVIS, J. W .
Joppa No. 223.—LAUREN
D . RIGG, proxy for M.; CHARLES M .
NIXON, S . W . ; CHARLES T . DIXON, J. W.
Anchor No. 22i..—LEE
C . STEELE, M . , proxy for J. W.; GERALD L .
TODD, S . W . Siloam No. 225.—SIDNEY
S . JANES, M . ; B . HAROLD GROFF, S . W . ;
GEORGE L . WEIGAND, J. W.
Dirigo No. 226.—RALPH H . BURT, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W. Jamestown No. 227.—CALVIN R . NOBLES, S. W . , proxy for M. and J. W. Ninneseah No. 230.—FRANK
M . YEOMAN, M . ; WILLIAM H . MCCLURE,
S. W.; VIRGIL E . R E E D , proxy for J. W.
Long Island No. 231.—BYRON E . MILLER, M . , proxy for J. W.; GLEN C. POTTS, proxy for S. W. Greenleaf No. 232.—CLYDE B . SCOTT, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Garfield No. 235.—MANNO J. ARENTS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Temple No. 237.—THOMAS R . LANDES, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Urhana No. 239.—ROY EWEN, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W. Soldier No. 2i0.—KARL J. JOHNSON, M . , proxy for S. W.; CARL E . BAERTCH, J. W.
LinwoodNo. 2^1.—HOWARD W . HOWSMON, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. . Miltonvale No. 2^2.—HENRY M . MOSS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Peace No. 2U3.—H. EARL YOUNG, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Marmaton No. 21,5.—JOHN J. BOMAN, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Tyrian No. 21,6.—E. L E E KEMPER, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W.
584
PROCEEDINGS
Chase No. 2^7.—WARREN
OF THE
February,
C . MCFARLAND, J. W., proxy for M. and
S. W. Scottsville No. 21,9.—ANSON MANN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Galva No. 251.—WALTER Stafford No.
P. GRANT, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
252.—S,. FLOYD PEACOCK, M . , proxy for J. W.; ROY
GERE, S. W . Oakley No. 253.—JOHN
D . VAWTER, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Ionic No. 251t.—RALPH
Lyra No. 256.—FRED Westmoreland
B . JORDAN, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
R . COX, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
No. 257.—MELVIN
J. W.
O . H I L L , S . W . , proxy for M. and
•
Morton No. Z58.—ELWOOD
C . YODER, M . , proxy for S. W.;
STEELE
R. NORTHCUTT, J. W. Beatlie No. 259.—GEORGE
F . SCHOLZ, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W.
Logan No. 261,.—JAMES M . CHESTNUTT, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Kilwinning
No. 265.—CHARLES
F . ZIMMERMAN,'M., proxy for S. W.;
CHARLES R . MAWDSLEY, proxy for J. W. Mount Zion No. 266.—CHARLIE
M . COON, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Moline No. 267.—HUDSON Bourbon No. 268.—JOHN Mistletoe No.
FUHRER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. H . BOWERS, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
269.—WALTER
E . APPLETRAD, J. W., proxy for
M.;
CHARLES R . RIGGS, proxy for S. W. Quenemo No. 270.—ELMER
E . WILEY, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W.
Armourdale No. 271.—HAROLD
N . NICHOLS, S . W . , proxy for M. and
J. W. Kaw
No. 272.—JOSEPH
H . WEBER, M . , proxy for S. W.;
HARRIS
HARRINGTON, J. W.
Unity No. 273.—JOHN R. SENTER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Black Diamond No. 271,.—PETER H . WHITE, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Webb No. 275.—WILLIAM T . GRAY, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Cosmos No. 278.—VERNON
C . MBRRYMAN, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Barney No. 279.—HAROLD
B . MUNSON, M . ; JOHN H . SCHIERECK, proxy
for S. W.; WILLIAM B . MARLIN, proxy for J. W. Millbrook No. 281.—IVAN
R . MORT, proxy for M. and S. W.; WILLIAM
C. MCCORMICK, J. W. Alpha No. 282.—CLARENCE Preston No. 283.—DEE
JONES, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
PRIBBLE, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Anthem No. 281,.—GEORGE
C . ABEL, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
1926-27.
GRAND
Argonia No. 285.—HARRY Oak No. 287.—HAROLD
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
585;
G . HADLER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
A. VANDERVORT, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Cyrus No. 288.—ALFRED
A. PETERSON, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Emerald No. 289.—ABRAM K . BROWN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Paradise No. 290.—LBROY
.
A. EADS, M . , proxy for J. W.; EARL T .
GILLESPIE, proxy for S. W. Beulah No. 291.—FRANK
H . HOKE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Glaseo No. 292.—JOSEPH
H . COOL, M . , proxy for J. W.;
MERTON'
FLETCHER, S. W . Kiowa No. 293.—ROBERT
E . SCHULZ, M . ; JOHN F . BERTRAM, proxy
for S. W.; CLAUDE H . BECKETT, J. W. Glen Elder No. 291,.—JOHN
B . BEELER, M . ; RICHARD L . MOORE,
S. W.; ALFRED L . MORE, J. W. Comanche No. 295.—OWEN
M . OSBOURN, M . , proxy for S. W.;
KARL
G. EHRLICH, J. W. Highland No. 296.—GUY H . BYARLAY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Apollo No. 297.—CHARLES
A. BAUGHER, S . W . , proxy for M.; ROBERT
G. MARKELL, proxy for J. W. Samaria No. 298.—JAMES
R . TRUITT, M . , proxy for J. W.; ARTHUR A.
JELLISON, proxy for S. W. Cable No. 299.—LOYD
A. POWELL, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Fargo No. 300.—WILLIAM
A. NAYLOR, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
Hamilton No. 301.—MERLE
B . BEEVERS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Gove City No. 302.—HENRY
A. SPIKER, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Albert Pike No. SOS.—PERRY S. W.;
D . BAKER, M . ; VERNETTE H . COBB,
CHARLES F . LATCHAW, J. W.
Avon No. 305.—HARRY
F . SUMMERS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
St. Thomas No. 306.—WILBUR
G . WARNER, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Kansas,No.
307.—VICTOR
C . KINGSBURY, M . ; THORNTON D . SCOTT,
proxy for S. W.; FORD M . D U K E , proxy for J. W. Alden No. 308.—FRANK
C . MILLS, M . ; RAYMOND J. ENGEL, proxy
for S. W.; EARL S . BROWN, proxy for J. W. Syracuse No. S09.—KIRKLAND
F . WADDELL, M . , proxy for J. W.-;
CHARLES R . DOLLINGS, S . W . Naphtali No. 310.—TULLY Hancock No. 311.—FRED
S . M . WOLF, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.JENSEN, M . ; EDWARD D . T H U R M A N . S . W . ;
HARRY M . BAFFORD, J . W . Santa Fe No. 312.—ZEDDIE
F . SPROUT, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Severance No. 313.—ALVIN
M . DENTON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Coolidge No. 316.—HARRY
A. LAUBACH, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
586
PROCEEDINGS
Norcatur No. 317.—SAMUEL J. W. Wallace No. 318.—WALTER
OF THE
Februaiy,
H . HATCHER, proxy for M., S. W. and E . DAVID, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Norwich No. 319.—JOHN E . FIESER, S. W.; IVAN L . STROUP, J. W. Vermillion No. 320.—DAVID J. W.
M . ; HARRY A. ZIMMERMAN,
L . ANDERSON, M . , proxy for S. W. and
Goodland No. 321.—ERNEST B . DANIELSON, M . ; LEONARD A. THOMPSON, S. W.; OLIVER S . LONG, proxy for J. W. Ben Hur No. 322.—HENRY J. W. Oneida No. 323.—WAYNE E. MOSEK, S. W.
WORKENTINE, M . , proxy for S. W. and
H . ANDERSON, J. W., proxy for M.; ERNEST
La Harpe No. 325.—ALPHA
A. HOLDEMAN, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Horton No. 326.—OSCAR L . KISTLER, M . ; JESSE R . FRANKLIN, S. W . ; CLYDE M . MCMANIGAL, J. W. Hoyt No. 327.—JAMES
W . CLELAND, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Gypsum City No. 328.—DAVID
W . BISHOP, J. W., proxy for M. and
S. W. Arcadia No. 329.—JOSEPH
D . PETTET, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
La Crosse No. 330.—RODNEY
TORREY, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
Hoisington No. 331.—CLARENCE
E . FARNSWORTH, proxy for M., S. W.
and J. W. Roh Morris No. 332.—EDWARD E . FORD, M . ; JAMES M . BARCUS, S . W . ; FLOYD WILLIAMS, proxy for J. W. Rosedale No. 333.—DEAN
E . DAVIS, M . , proxy for J. W.;
WILLIAM
E . SAUNDERS, proxy for S. W. Oak Hill No. 33U.—NEAL Allen No. 335.—GEORGE
D . LYNE, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. H . REABURN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Formosa No. 336.—DAVID
A. NYWALL, proxy for M.;
CHARLES L .
DYAS, S. W . , proxy for J. W. Frederick No. 337.—EMIL
BADRAUN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Kincaid No. 338.—HERBERT
D . HENDERSON, proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. Leoti No. 3JfO.—WILLIAM C . DICKEY, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Holyrood No. 31,3.—JOHN W . CUMMINS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Ashlar No. 3H.—MERTON
L . OTTO, M . ; BLAINE DODSON, S. W . ;
AUGUST E . SCHATTENBUEG, J . W . Edna No. 3U5.—OSCAR FROMAN, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Moundridge No. 31,6.—-HARRY G . VETTER, M . ; DAVID L . HARDER, S. W.; OTTO H . ROLLER, J. W.
1026-27.
GRAND
LODGE
Narka No. 31t9.—ANTON C . Horace No. 352.—FRANK A. Marquette No. 353.—ALBERT Summerfield No. 35Jt.—EARL Wellsville No. 356.—ELLIS
OF KANSAS.
58T
CERNY, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. MOORE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W, H . NELSON, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W . H . ADAMS, proxy for M., S. W. and J. "W,
P . ADDY, M . ; VERYL C . SHEPPARD, S . W . ;
WILLIAM O . COLLINS, J. W.
Alta Vista No. 357.—PAGE JOHNSON, M . , proxy for J. W.; GEORGE A. SiZEMORE, proxy for S. W. Turon No. 358.—ALVA B . GEESLING, S. W . , proxy for M. and J. W. Sylvan Grove No. 359.—FREDERICK C . LARSEN, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Geneseo No. 361.—JOHN E . MOCK, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W. Cuba No. 362.—ARTHUR F . STBFANEK, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Powhattan No. 363.—EARL F . BARTLEY, S. W . , proxy for M. and J. W. Valley Center No. 36^.—HARRY H . SULLARD, M . , proxy for J. W.; CHARLES W . RICKARD, S. W .
Baling No. 365.—WILLIAM D . KENDELL, M . , proxy for J. W.; GEORGE W. HOBBS, S. W. Bonner Springs No. 366.—HOUSTON E . BOAZ, S. W . , proxy for M . ; JOHN C . DAVID, proxy for J. W.
Plains No. 367.—JOB
C . BENSON, M . , proxy for J. W.; CLAYTON
GEISINGER, S. W .
Stohrville No. 368.—CLEM LIVBNGOOD, M . , proxy for J. W.; AUBREY T. STEWART, S. W .
Roger E. Sherman No. 369.—ALBERT L . LOWDER, M . , proxy for S. W . and J. W. Maple Hill No. 370.—LEANDER E . JONES, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W. Macksville No. 371.—ALBERT J. BOCK, M . ; GUY W . ROTHROCK, proxy for S. W.; FRED MCREYNOLDS, J. W.
Morrill No. 373.—RAY H . MICKEY, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Dwight No. 37lf.—KARL S . DAY, M . , proxy for J. W.; HENRY W . SHAFER, S. W .
Delavan No. 375.—ELVIN W . STICE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Grand View No. 376.—MERTON R . ANDERSON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Zenda No. 378.—DEE RICKARD, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Buffalo No. 379.—BENJAMIN F . SHOOP, proxy for M.; WILLIAM FINLEY, proxy for S. W.; FRANCIS SALES, proxy for J. W.
Grainfield No. 381.—PAUL C . STUBBS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Wilsey No. 382.—CLAUDE
J. BROWN, proxy for M.; ROGER C . T O M P -
KINS, proxy for S. W.; FLOYD F . EARLYWINE, proxy for J. W.
588
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
McDonald No. 383.—JAY T . JACKSON, M . ; JOHN F . HOWARD, proxy for S. W.; THOMAS F . TRAMMELS, proxy for J. W.
Protection No. 38i.—EMORY
E . FLEMING, M . , proxy for J. W.; JESSE
J. EDMONSTON, S. W .
Piper No. 385.—FRED A. H E I N , M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Spearville No. 388.—CORWIN H . MCMAHAN, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W. Free-port No. 389.—CLYDE BOND, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Natoma No. S90.—WALTER L . VOGBLGESANG, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Sylvia No. 391.—JOHN W . COLEMAN, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Fosloria No. 392.—ELMER F . MODIN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Mayetta No. 393.—LEONARD L . SMITH, M . , proxy for J. W.; EDSON J. LUNGER, proxy for S.' W. Coats No. 39Jt.—RALPH HARROUFF, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Saffordville No. 395.—OLIVER
M . NEVITT, M . ; JOHN A. OBLEY, S . W . ;
ARTHUR D . SELVES, proxy for J. W.
Wakefield No. 396.—VEKNON S. ENGBL, proxy for M.; ROY A. WOODBURY, S. W., proxy for J. W. Lindshorg
No.
397.—FRANK M. SHIELDS, M . ; HARRIS A. BAKER,
proxy for S. W.; HARRY A. STRECKER, proxy for J. W. Mullinville No. 399.—HENRY H . SHERER, M . , proxy for S. W.; CHARLES H. SHERER, J. W.
Melody No. UOO.—W. GUY SNEDAKER, proxy for M.; GEORGE W . COIN, proxy for S. W.; RICHARD C MARCELL, proxy for J. W.
Wakarusa No. J,OZ.—HARLAND R . MOODY, J. W., proxy for M'. and S. W. Benedict No. Jf03.—EBNER EVANS, S . W . , proxy for M.; HARRY H . TEMPLEMAN, proxy for J. W. Saint Francis No. J,OJt.—HENRY W.. DAUM, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W. . Hugoton No. Jf06.—LEONARD H . SMITH, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Scranton No. 1,07.—HUGH R . COFFMAN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Arma No. U08.—JAMES BARNES, M . , proxy for J. W.; J O E MOROZZO, S. W. Haviland No. 1,09.—ADRIAN T . MCNUTT, M . ; BAYARD J . LONG, proxy for S. W.; THEODORE R . BRYANT, proxy for J. W.
Quintet No. 1,10.—CECIL CALVERT, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Climax No. 1,11.—JOHN H . LUNSFORD, M . , proxy for S. W.; ROBERT E. SEARS, proxy for J. W. . Wilmore No. 1,12.—CLARENCE O . MASTERSON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
i92ti-27
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
589
Ensign No. JflS.—GLENN J. NUGENT, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Morland No. ^H.—ROY BAIRD, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Perry No. ^15.—DALE STARK, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. King David No. 1^16.—FRANK V. SAUNDERS, S. W . , proxy for M.; HENRY E . FLICKINGER, proxy for J. W.
Sharon Springs No. Jfl?.—EDWARD L E E CARTER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Codell No. JflS.—FLOYD L . DOUGHERTY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Delia No. Jfl9.—HOWARD E . HOUCK, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Lecompton No. 1,20.—JOHN M . WATTS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Selden No. .1,23.—YLARnY F. SLOAN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Claflin No. ^21,.—HERMAN A. PRAEGBR, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Turner No. Jf25.—J. RHINLBY HARBOUR, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Minneola No. i.31.—GEORGE H . LUTZ, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Deerfield No. U32.—WILLIS E . BENJAMIN, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W. Beslor G. Brown No. 1,33.—WILLIAM J. BAUERLE, M . ; ELMER C . BEEZLEY, S. W . ; LYLB H . PLANT, J. W.
Rosalia No. 1,31,.—THEO M . GLENN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Ulysses No. 1,35.—HERBERT W . STUBBS, M . , proxy for S. W.; JAMES A. CARTER, proxy for J. W. Overland Park No. 1,36.—WILLIAM A. B. PARRY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. West Gate No. 1,38.—MELVIN C . ONSEN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Beaumont No. 1,39.—JAMBS C . SQUIER, M . , proxy for S. W.; FRANK W. SQUIER, proxy for J. W. Bendena No. 1,1,0.—ALTON L . DUTTON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Johnson No. 1,1,1.—JOHN B . COCKRUM, M . ; GARRETT C . MILLSAP, S.W.; ORIN H . NORTON, proxy for J. W.
Rexford No. 1,1*2.—CHARLES E . MINNICK, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Kanorado No. 1,1,3.—ROBERT BIGHAM, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Hutchinson No. 1,1,5.—ERNEST C . FRIESBN, M . ; WILLIAM E . EAGLEN, S. W.; OLIN H . TAYLOR, J. W. Satanta No. 1,1,6.—LEWIS O . STANLEY, M . ; CHARLES S. R E N O , S . W . ; PRESSLEY M . FINER, proxy for J. W.
Kingsdown No. 1,1,7.—ARCHIE L. SissoN, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
590
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
RECAPITULATION.
Grand Officers present Past Elective Grand Officers present Past Masters present
15 13 230
(Exclusive of any Grand or Past Elective Grand Offlcers or District Deputy Grand Masters.)
District Deputy Grand Masters present Representatives of Lodges present
45 507
(Exclusive of any Grand or Past Elective Grand Officers, District Deputy Grand Masters, or Past Masters.)
Total representation in Grand Lodge Grand Representatives present Number of Lodges represented '. Number of Lodges not represented Total number of Lodges on rolls
810 56 351 96 447
Fraternally submitted, ROBERT H . MONTGOMERY, P H I L I P EUGENE STOTLER, ROY H . CLOSSEN,
RICHARD W . EVANS, GEORGE W . MCCLELLAND, Committee.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
591
STANDING COMMITTEES.
The M.'.W.'. Grand Master announced the appointment of the following revised list of Committees: On Credentials.—ROBERT H . MONTGOMERY, No. 63, Oswego; PHILIP EUGENE STOTLER, NO. 3 (residence, R. F. D. No. 2, Bethel); ROY H . CLOSSEN, N O . 102, Coffeyville;
RICHARD W . EVANS, N O . 222,
Dodge City; GEORGE W . MCCLELLAND, NO. 17, Topeka. On Reports of Grand Officers.—BEN S. PAULEN, NO. 95, Fredonia; JOSEPH D . FELL, N O . 113, Concordia;
RANSOM STEPHENS, N O . 433,
Wichita; BERTINE P. WALKER, N O . 160 (temporarily residing at Topeka); ELISHA G . MINARD, NO. 227, Jamestown. On .Finance and Property.—EARL T . PYLE, NO. 134, Clay Center; HOMER B . FINK, NO. 225, Topeka; MOSES H . COLE, NO. 206, Harper; LUCIAN L . CONSTANT, NO. 173, Belle Plaine; RICHARD H . CRAVENS, No. 60, Salina. On Jurisprudence.—ELRICK C . COLE, No. 15, Great Bend; JOHN MCCULLAGH, NO. 194, Galena; JOHN M . KINKEL, N O . 140 (residence, Topeka); OTTO R . SOUDBRS, N O . 99, Wichita. Ore Chartered Lodges and Lodges U. D.—ELLSWORTH B . SBWBLL, JR., NO. 51, Topeka; CLARENCE E . FARNSWORTH, NO. 331, Hoisington; JOHN DAVIS, N O . 129, Belleville. On Correspondence.—ALBERT K . WILSON, N O . 51, Topeka. Ore Necrology.—HENRY
WALLBNSTEIN, N O . 303, Wichita.
SPECIAL COMMITTEE. Ore History of Grand Lodge.—ALBERT BENJAMIN F . H E I S , N O . 2, Leavenworth;
Highland.
K . WILSON, NO. 51, Topeka; PAUL M . MARTIN, N O . 1,
MASONIC GRAND LODGE BUILDING , TOPEKA ,
}' .\~ S A S .
(An exclusive Office, Library ancl Museum BuUding, containing also OJllces of Grand Chapter. Grand Coundl t\lld Grand
Commancl ~ ry ) .
592
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
GRAND MASTER'S ADDRESS.
M.-. W.-. JOHN W . NEILSON delivered the following address, which, on motion of R.-. W.-. FERRIS M . HILL, was referred to the Committee on Reports of Grand Officers: To the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas: BRETHREN:
Right joyously I welcome you to the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Master Masons of the great State of Kansas. The year just passed, with its duties and responsibilities, has enlarged my appreciation of the science and art of Freemasonry as a real factor In human progress. I am reminded that our principles and tenets are rooted in the wisdom of antiquity; that our Order has marched down the centuries without a single deviation from its course. Like the mighty Nile which flows through a thousand miles of waste and desert land without a single tributary, the stream of Masonry has moved along undiluted by ingraftment or any form of alloy. Our Great Lights, shining down the avenues of time, symbolize the plan laid out by the Great Architect of the Universe, and reveal the laws and principles which govern our work. The mighty force and importance of this symbolism are the marvel of the ages. The human mind has conceived no finer idealism. This graphic system of object lessons is the Alpha and Omega of human achievement. The Mason of today is actuated by the same purpose, is trained in the same lessons and arrives at Masonic goals by the interpretation and application of the same symbols as his brethren of past centuries. For ages past they have made Masons great men, and great men, Masons. The art of Masonry is the practice of Masonry, the science of Masonry is the knowledge of Masonry. Operative and speculative Masons acquire skill as the physician acquires skill in his practice, or as a painter or musician attains mastery of his art. Every lodge is a whole, and in every detail is symbolic. The understanding of these details makes clear to us the concepiton of KING SOLOMON'S Temple in all its grandeur, with its matchless architecture, its wealth of material and perfection of furnishings. The miracle of assemblage of material and craftsmen, conceived in the Councils of Infinite Wisdom, symbolizes the Temple in the Heavens whose maker and finisher is GOD, and is the place where all true Masons shall dwell throughout eternity. The neophyte, on entering our temple should have the feeling of entering a building made glorious through its architecture and the noble work of Master Artisans. Masonic work and devotion n Kansas has erected a wonderful structure. The masses of men are the quarry, from which comes the strong enduring material. Every one of the mass has more or less
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
593
possibilities as a rough ashlar. Under the true craftsmanship of workers and masters one may be fitted as a perfect ashlar and be accorded a place in the magnificent masonry of our temple. Each year, from the territorial days of the State, another complete course of perfect ashlars has increased the height of our noble edifice. Now we have laid the Seventy-first course and our symbolic building towers, as a spiritual skyscraper over the ruins of centuries. The neophyte has sensed its beauty and has knocked at our doors in increasing numbers. The mother has been glad to have her sons kneel at our sacred altar. The world believes in Masonic integrity. With faith and hope and works, our temple is as steadfast as the Blazing Star in the center of our checkered pavement. Some of our ancient brethren, once had the ambitious project of building a tower at Babel which should reach the heavens. But their plan was unauthorized and uncharted. They soon fell into confusion of ideas and of speech, and were scattered over the face of the earth. Our temple is building under the sanction of the Grand Master of the Universe. The orders are laid out on the trestle board of life, wherein we find instructions for the perfection of each and every spiritual temple and the merging of all into the universal temple of Deity. Brethren, Masonic principles and Masonic character must further permeate the complex fabric of our lofty civilization. Freemasonry must stand as an irrestible bulwark against the onsweeping tide of selfishness, greed and corruption that is lapping at the foundations of civilization. NECROLOGY.
Little did we think a brief five years ago, when, in his Annual Address he spoke of his rugged health, that the portals of the Heavenly Temple would so soon swing open for our beloved Past Grand Master, HUGH P.
FARRELLY.
The final summons came on the morning of November 17, 1926, and he relinquished the working tools of life to join the Grand Lodge above. He was stricken down at the meridian of life, when his keen legal mind, good judgment and broad human sympathy were of inestimable value to the Craft, to his Community and to the State. We extend our meed of praise and offer our profound sympathy to those whose loss is immeasurable and irreparable. During the year 927 Brothers from our Jurisdiction have ascended the steps, drawn aside the veil and entered the portals of the Celestial Temple above, " Think of them living on, as dear In the land of there, as the land of here." When the shadow of the vacant chair darkens so many homes, we need a message of comfort and to all who mourn we would say, "Beyond death there is life."
594
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
INSTALLATION.
W.-. FRANK D . SPERRY, of Ellsworth Lodge No. 146, who was
appointed Grand Junior Steward, was not present at the time of installation of officers at the last Annual Communication. On March 15th, at a regular Communication of Ellsworth Lodge No. 146, District Deputy Grand Master PAUL B . HOFFMANN, installed Brother SPERRY, and due report was made of said action. LODGE CONSTITUTED.
At the last Annual Communication, the Grand Lodge authorized a charter issued to Kingsdown Lodge No. 447, at Kjngsdown. The charter was issued and the lodge was duly constituted on March 13, 1926, by District Deputy Grand Master RUEL V. BUTCHER, of Cimarron, and report made as required. LODGES U N D E R DISPENSATION.
On February 26, 1926, Letters of Dispensation were issued to several brethren at Chapman to form a new lodge. Brother HARVEY O . DAVIS, Lecturer, set them to work and the lodge starts under auspicious circumstances. Letters of Dispensation for the establishment of a new lodge at Grinnell, Kansas, were issued March 26, 1926, and Brother STANFORD M. SMART, Lecturer, set them to work and remained several days instructing the officers. List of officers of tfie above ledges will be shewn in the report o f the Grand Secretary. CHARTER DESTROYED.
On June 11, 1926, the Grand Secretary was authorized to issue a duplicate charter to Lenora Lodge No. 181 to replace the original destroyed by fire, June 5, 1926. ELECTIONS ERRONEOUSLY HELD.
Notwithstanding the fact that the attention of the lodges has been repeatedly called to the law governing time of holding annual elections, five lodges, Olive No. 350 of Elgin, Lane No. 339 of Lane, Osage Valley No. 24 of Osawatomie, Delphos No. 202 of Delphos and Elkhart No. 422 of Elkhart, held elections at other than the time provided by law. Such elections were held as irregular, a Special Dispensation issued, and a new election ordered. In each instance elections were promptly held and report of such action, accompanied by the required fee of $5.00, was forwarded to me.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
595
LECTURERS.
On March 1, 1926, I issued commissions re-appointing W.'. Brothers STANFORD M . SMART, of Zenda Lodge No. 378, and HARVEY
O. DAVIS, of Anthony Lodge No. 200, Lecturers. Brother GRAFTON D . WHITAKER was appointed Lecturer for Wyandotte County. That the lodges appreciate the patience, proficiency and kindly criticism of our Lecturers is evidenced by the numerous commendatory letters received by me following the District Meetings and Schools of Instruction. In addition to instructing at his quota of District Meetings, Brother DAVIS held Schools of Instruction at the following places: Hiawatha, Corning, Chapman, Wichita, Scott City, White Cloud, Wallace, Rosalia, Dighton, Garden City, Lakin, Syracuse, Waldron, Leavenworth and Hazelton. Brother SMART held Schools of Instruction at Florence, Grinnell, and Arlington. GRAND ORATOR.
In conformity with By-Law No. 21, it was my duty and pleasure to extend an invitation to Brother CHARLES MOREAU HARGER, of
Benevolent Lodge No. 98, Abilene, to prepare and deliver an oration at this Communication of the Grand Lodge. The invitation was accepted and Brother HARGER, who has an enviable reputation as a writer, is entitled to your considerate attention. This address will be given at 1:30 P: M. today. GRAND L O D G E HISTORY.
Few of the pioneers in Kansas history, which is analogous with early Masonic history, are left to tell the story of the trials and vicissitudes, the joys and sorrows of those who led the van in the great tide of immigration which flowed into Kansas subsequent to the establishment of the Territory. That this early Masonic history might not go unrecorded there have been repeated suggestions made that a committee be appointed to undertake this important work, and in conformity with the action of the Grand Lodge in 1926 a special committee consisting of our of Grand Secretary, ALBERT K . WILSON, Brother BENJAMIN F . H E I S ,
Leavenworth Lodge No. 2, and Brother PAUL M . MARTIN, of Smithton Lodge No. 1, were appointed. As this work will entail an enormous amount of research, it has not been possible for our Grand Secretary, with his multiplicity of other duties, to undertake the work this year. Believing that we owe it to our posterity to preserve our wonderful history, it is my recommendation that our Grand Secretary, on account of his personal knowledge of early Masonic events and because he has
596
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
Februaryi
access to all our printed records, be appointed to compile this history and that he be given additional clerical help, thus relieving him of the routine work of the office. I also recommend that a sufficient sum be appropriated to make this possible. ANNOUNCEMENTS.
At 7:00 p. M. the children of the Masonic Home will give a musical program for our entertainment. At 7:15 the Grand Master, as President of the Masonic Home Board, will present his report on the Masonic Home, to be followed immediately by the exemplification of the Master Mason degree in dramatized form by Norwich Lodge No. 319, under direction of Brother STANFORD M . SMART, Lecturer.
At 8:30 tomorrow morning the Grand Lodge will resume labor, after which W.'. Brother ROBERT P. MCCOLLOCH will deliver the usual annual Special Address, the subject being "Symbols." I t is expected that all members will be present at that hour. GRAND REPRESENTATIVES NEAR OUR GRAND LODGE.
Brother DAVID A. NYWALL of Formoso Lodge No. 336 was recommended on April 8, 1926, as Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of Oklahoma near the Grand Lodge of Kansas. Brother CHARLES J W E B B of Siloam Lodge No. 225 was recommended on May 17,1926, as Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of Canada near the Grand Lodge of Kansas. Brother HUBERT H . HUBBARD of Galena Lodge No. 194 was recommended on May 17, 1926, as Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of Tennessee near the Grand Lodge of Kansas. Brother CHARLES N . FOWLER of Salina Lodge No. 60 was recommended on November 22, 1926, as Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of Illinois near the Grand Lodge of Kansas. Brother AUSTIN J. PAIGE of St. John's Lodge No. 113 was recommended on November 22, 1926, as Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of Costa Rica near the Grand Lodge of Kansas. GRAND REPRESENTATIVES NEAR OTHER GRAND LODGES. On September 27, 1926, J. GABRIEL PINA ROCA was commissioned
Grand Representative of our Grand Lodge near the Grand Lodge of Ecuador. On December 20, 1926, ENEY F . YIELDING was commissioned
Grand Representative of Kansas near the Grand Lodge of Alabama. FOREIGN R E L A T I O N S .
Many requests have been forwarded through the Grand Secretary's office to lodges in other Grand Jurisdictions to confer degrees for Kansas lodges and there have been several requests received by lodges
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
597
in Kansas to confer degrees for lodges in other Grand Jurisdictions; all of which have been cheerfully and promptly complied with. SPECIAL DISPENSATIONS.
During the year there have been seventy-seven Special Dispensations issued all of which have been forwarded to the Grand Secretary's office. Of this number there were thirty-eight granted authorizing the conferral of degrees waiving statutory time and the usual fee of $5.00 was collected for each one, excepting in the cases of Arma Lodge No. 408, Arma, and Washington Lodge No. 5, Atchison, which were returned not used. Five Dispensations were issued to lodges to elect and install officers on account of elections erroneously held and a fee of $5.00 collected. The remaining number of Dispensations were issued for the purpose of filling vacancies in office, and for the installation of officers absent at the regular time for installation. Many requests for Special Dispensations were denied, as reasons given did not justify the issuance of same. CORNER-STONES AND DEDICATIONS.
During the year the Grand Lodge has been convened in Special Communication on ten occasions for the purpose of laying cornerstones and dedicating a Masonic Temple as shown by the following: On March 17th, to lay the corner-stone of the Masonic Temple at Atwood. On April 17th, to lay the corner-stone of the County High School at Leoti. On April 28th, to lay the corner-stone of the Decatur County Court House at Oberlin. On April 29th, to lay the corner-stone of the Rural High School at Norcatur. On May 10th, to lay the corner-stone of the Rural High School at Brookville. On August 9th, to lay the corner-stone of the Wyandotte County Court House at Kansas City. On August 16th, to lay the corner-stone of the Krst Methodist Church at Towanda. On August 17th, to lay the corner-stone of the High School at Bazine. On September 20th, to dedicate the new Masonic Temple at Atwood. On October 4th, to lay the corner-stone of the Masonic Temple at Hutchinson. With the exception of laying the corner-stone of the County High School at Leoti, which was conducted by Past Grand Master CHARLES
MAl E TRANCE TO B lLDlNG. Showing High Iron Feneo, tho two Columns and Bronze Light Standard
598
'iPBOCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
A. LoucKS, and laying the corner-stone of the High School at Bazine, which was conducted by W/. EARL B . HOPPER, your Grand Master was present and officiated at these ceremonies. UNVEILING MONUMENT.
On June 7, 1926, it was my privilege to convene the Grand Lodge in Special Communication, with eight of the Grand Lodge officers present in the hall of Smithton Lodge No. 1 at Highland, Doniphan County, for the purpose of performing the solemn and impressive ceremony of unveiling a monument erected by the Grand Lodge to the memory of two pioneers in Kansas Masonry, R.-. W.'. JOHN W . SMITH, our first Deputy Grand Master, and R.". W.-. DANIEL VANDER-
SLICE, our first Grand Junior Warden. This monument replaced a bronze shaft that was erected by the Grand Lodge and Smithton Lodge No. 1, in 1878, but which had failed to withstand the action of the elements; The members of the Council of Administration in 1925 were of the unanimous opinion that this hallowed spot should be fittingly marked, and authorized Grand Secretary ALBERT K . WILSON to have erected a suitable memorial. All the lodges of the County were represented and in the presence of these brethren, numbering about one hundred and seventy-five and a large concourse of friends, an appropriate ceremony was performed as a tribute t o the memory of these faithful craftsmen whose devotion and vision made possible the organization of our Grand Lodge, and whose courage and determination carried it on. While this granite shaft shall endure it will remind us of the priceless heritage of devotion and love for Kansas Masonry as exemplified in the lives of Brothers SMITH and VANDERSLICE. INVITATIONS AND VISITS.
It is proverbial that " T h e best laid plans gang aft agley," and this has proven true this year regarding the official visits of the Grand Master, for with the exacting and daily attention that must be given to the affairs of the office of Grand Master, it is becoming increasingly difficult to respond to many of the courteous invitations extended by our lodges and also by other Grand Jurisdictions. Whenever distance and the time at my disposal permitted, I counted it a privilege and a great pleasure to accept the hospitality and courtesy that were so freely extended. Invitations were received from the Grand Masters of Iowa, Nebraska and Missouri to attend their Annual Communications, all of which were regretfully declined. It was necessary to forego the pleasure of attending the dedication of the new Masonic Temple in Detroit, Thanksgiving Day. This is considered one of the most beautiful Masonic Temples in the world and the greetings of the Kansas Masons were extended to the Detroit brethren on this "red letter d a y " in Michigan Masonry.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
599
An invitation from the Grand Master of Oregon.to attend the Seventy-fifth Anniversary of the organization of their Grand Lodge on September 15th, was, of necessity, declined. It was a memorable meeting with a large attendance including one hundred brethren who had been Masons for fifty years or more. It was my good fortune, during a visit in Des Moines, Iowa, at Christmas time, to attend a Communication, in company with Grand Master HARRY M . BELT, of Capitol Lodge No. 110, celebrating their Past Master's night. Your Grand Master was accorded a very courteous reception by the five hundred Master Masons present. One of the outstanding meetings of the year, in which the Grand Lodge participated, was the Communication of Orient Lodge No. 51, on March 13, 1926, when the Work was conferred on a candidate, whose accession brought the roll of membership to the two thousand mark. The Work, in dramatized form, was exemplified by Past Masters of Orient Lodge in a most efficient and impressive manner, making this meeting an inspiration to all who had the privilege of attending it. Several invitations to attend Stated Communications were received and accepted, also meetings held in honor of Past Masters, or in the celebration held in honor of brethren who had been Masons fifty years or more. It was a matter of great personal regret that it was impossible for me to attend the celebration at Lawrence on March 9th, of the fiftieth Masonic birthday of our Grand Treasurer, R.'. W.". WILLIAM PRANK MARCH.
On October 18, 1926, Blue Rapids Lodge No. 169 celebrated the Fiftieth Anniversary of the organization of their lodge, and a most enjoyable afternoon and evening were spent in rerniniscences and song. Not the least enjoyable part of the entertainment was a splendid banquet which was served to about 200 Masons and their families. On August 26th, I visited Antiquity Lodge U. D. at Chapman and had the pleasure of witnessing the conferral of the Master Mason degree upon the son of Brother VICTOR L . OWENS, Master of this lodge. The appropriate equipment and the excellence of the work done by Antiquity Lodge U. D. augurs well for the future when they will no doubt be received in full membership in our Masonic family. FINANCING TEMPLES.
There comes a time in the life of every ambitious man when he outgrows his habitation and reaches out for better and larger accommodations; so it has been with many of our lodges over the State: magnificent temples, beautifully furnished and splendidly equipped, have gratified this laudable ambition, but in too many instances the " p a y as you go" plan has been relegated to the background and lodges have become so involved in debt that it is proving not only burdensome to the. members but detrimental to the lodge as a whole.
600
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
We point with pride to our beautiful edifices, but this erection of costly temples should not be undertaken until a substantial sum has been accumulated for their building and equipment. Perhaps the most serious trouble, arising in our lodges the past year or two, is the result of improper and inadequate plans for financing their undertakings and in addition to the Architect's plans being passed upon, I believe the manner of financing new temples should be under the observation and with the approval of the Grand Master. Unsatisfactory results have followed the issuance of life memberships in return for funds advanced to finance building projects. At least the certificate plan should be adopted rather than the blanket mortgage plan, for by the former plan all feel a personal interest in the undertaking and consider their stock as an investment for their own personal good and for the good of the Fraternity in their locality. COURTESIES EXCHANGED.
Under the above heading the Grand Secretary, in his report, gives in detail the action taken to avoid making any change in the Constitution regarding the elimination of the ballot upon petitions for advancement, on request, which was proposed by Past Grand Master ELMER F. STRAIN, in his annual address. With the approval of the Special Committee to whom this subject had been referred, and the approval of the Jurisprudence Committee and the Grand Master, the Grand Secretary did not take the steps necessary to amend the Constitution. If this meets with the approval of the Grand Lodge final action should be taken at this Annual Communication. SURVEY OF RECORDS AND FUNDS.
At the last Annual Communication following the suggestions of the Grand Secretary, and upon recommendation of the Committee on Jurisprudence, the Grand Master was instructed to make a survey and report upon the manner of keeping lodge records and funds. Based upon the reports received from the District Deputies, it was found that, 5 Secretaries did not keep a Cash Book. 2 Secretaries did not keep a Ledger. 12 Secretaries did not keep an Historical Record. 13 Secretaries did not keep Book of Annual Returns to date. 3 Secretaries did not use Standard Forms. 16 Treasurers did not keep a Cash Book. 4 Treasurers did not deposit funds in name of the lodge. 12 Lodges did not have books audited during the year. 48 Lodges did not have Auditing Report spread upon the minutes. 180 Lodges are carrying members on their rolls who are more than two years in arrears for dues.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
601
In all cases these delinquencies were called to the attention of the.Masters of the lodges and they were directed to see that our rules were enforced. To correct negligence on the part of the Secretaries and Treasurers the District Deputy should act in an advisory capacity at the time of his visit and upon receipt of the District Deputies' reports, the incoming Grand Master should continue this survey that the number of lodges violating these regulations should be minimized. ILLEGAL SUSPENSIONS.
On June 12, 1926, the Grand Secretary submitted a question and asked for a ruling concerning the suspension of members for nonpayment of dues in 1925, based on the Second Notice having been sent out subsequent to April 9, 1925, on which date the Annual Proceedings for 1925 were issued and which contained amended Section 125, requiring that hereafter all Second Notices should be sent out within sixty days after the Stated Communication next preceding St. John's Day in December. After giving the subject careful thought and submitting the question to M.'.W.'. ELEICK C . COLE, Chairman of the Committee on Jurisprudence, for his opinion, I ruled that the Amendment to Section 125, requiring that the order for the Second Notice for payment of dues should be made within sixty days after the Stated Communication next preceding St. John's Day in December, became effective on April 9, 1925, which was the date the Proceedings were promulgated and any suspensions based on Second Notices sent out after April 9, 1925, were illegal and all such names should be restored to the roll of members and Grand Lodge dues paid on them for 1925. ILLEGAL BALLOT.
Minneapolis Lodge No. 143 balloted upon a petition for the Mysteries of Masonry after having lost jurisdiction over the petitioner by reason of his removal from the State. Held that election was illegal and directed that the fee be returned to the petitioner. Brainerd Lodge No. 280, at Whitewater, balloted upon a petition at an adjourned meeting. Held that ballot was illegal, that petition be again referred to an investigating committee and take the course of an original petition. Ballot was taken on a petition for the Mysteries in Wakarusa Lodge No. 402 and result was unfavorable on account of one negative ballot. Second ballot was ordered, resulting favorably, but count showed all present had not cast ballot. Third ballot was taken and reported not clear, and petitioner declared rejected. Held that petitioner was elected on second ballot and that the third ballot was illegal.
602
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SOCIAL ACTIVITIES.
The wording of Decision No. 108 regarding dancing is very concise and definite, but during the year there have been brought to my attention several instances of apparent violation or evasion of this law. Replies to inquiries regarding the participation or sponsoring of this form of entertainment by the lodges have invariably brought denials of infringment of the law and further investigation showed that by subterfuge these entertainments were held. The only effective penalty which the Grand Master may impose for violation of our law is the arresting of the charter, and under present social conditions it appears that the offense does not justify such a severe penalty, and I believe this subject should receive further consideration of the Grand Lodge. JURISDICTION.
On August 16, 1926, information was received through the Grand Secretary's office, that Wichita Lodge No. 99 had received an incomplete petition for the Mysteries of Masonry and conferred the Entered Apprentice Degree upon ELMER E . BENTZ, whose place of residence was in doubt. In view of a claim of original jurisdiction and an objection from Tyrone Lodge No. 361 of Tyrone, Oklahoma, an order was issued •denying further advancement to Brother BENTZ. Hope Lodge No. 155 of Howard, received the petition of THEODORE R. PLATZ, a legal resident of Emporia, thus being guilty of invasion of jurisdiction, and an order was issued to Hope Lodge No. 155 to remit the initiation fee to the Secretary of Emporia Lodge No. 12, the membership of the petitioner to remain in Hope Lodge No. 155. DISCIPLINE.
Rosedale Lodge No. 333 incurred the censure of the Grand Lodge by their failure to convict A. E. BELCHER, a member of this lodge, for violation of the prohibitory law. The Jurisprudence Committee recommended that the verdict of acquittal be set aside and a new trial ordered, which was done and a reprimand was administered to Rosedale Lodge. In case of the appeal of WALTER W . SCOTT from the sentence of
Long Island Lodge No. 231, the Grand Lodge, by adopting the report of the Jurisprudence Committee, ordered that the sentence of expulsion be changed t o a sentence of suspension and Long Island Lodge was duly notified of this action. On account of an error in wording the report of the Jurisprudence Committee on the appeal of R U E A. THOMAS of Mulvane Lodge No. 201, the Grand Secretary was directed to inform the lodge that the sentence stands as suspension instead of expulsion.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
603
Past Grand Master LOUCKS recommended that conditions existing in Washington Lodge No. 5, Vermillion Lodge No. 320, Shawnee Lodge No. 54 and Brainerd Lodge No. 280 be referred to the incoming Grand Master for final disposition. Regarding the first two named the instruction and advice given by Brother LouCKS settled their difficulty and nothing has developed to require additional attention by the Grand Master. In the case of Shawnee Lodge No. 54, the trouble was not abated and after numerous conferences and much correspondence, the Grand Master, accompanied by Deputy Grand Master FOWLER, made an official visit to this lodge and again reviewed their difficulties but no drastic action was taken as we received the assurances of every one present, representing a large majority of the resident members, that they would work in peace and harmony. One in authority should refrain from exercising that authority until the situation becomes intolerable and every means of amicable settlement are exhausted, and this is especially'true when such drastic action results in the dissolution of an organized lodge, but when all conciliatory means are exhausted no half way decision is conceivable and the issue resolves into the following which must be conceded before there can be peace: The settlement of every question upon the basis of a free acceptance of that settlement by all concerned. The consent of all members to be governed in their conduct toward each other by the principles taught in our Masonic law. There must be a strict observance of the law, based upon the consent of the governed and sustained by an harmonious organization. For several years there has been dissension existing in Brainerd Lodge No. 280 at Whitewater. During the first few months of this, year it appeared that through the counsel and advice of Past Grand Master LouCKS and District Deputy Grand Master GLEN CHAMBERLAIN, the difficulty had been satisfactorily settled; however, the smoldering fires of strife and discord broke out anew and in spite of the help and admonition given these brothers by District Deputy Grand Master CLAUDE O . CONKEY the contention continued.
The proceedings in the lodge were known and discussed by the public, an illegal ballot was taken and an irregular meeting held, charges and counter charges were rife and un-Masonic conduct continued without abatement. Following information submitted to me by the District Deputy . Grand Master and other brothers who were interested, I made a personal visit to this lodge, accompanied by District Deputy Grand Master CLAUDE O . CONKEY, and it was found that an amicable settlement was impossible.
604
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
Believing that t h e discord and dissension existing justified such action, the following order was issued: CONCORDIA, KANSAS, November 20, 1926.
To the Worshipful Master, Wardens and Members of Brainerd Lodeg No. 280, A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: From information given me concerning dissension existing in Brainerd Lodge No. 280, it appears that the interests of the Craft will be best served by the suspension of work in this lodge. Therefore: I t is my order that, effective November 16, 1926, the Charter of Brainerd Lodge No. 280, A. F . & A. M., at Whitewater be arrested. It is further ordered that the Charter and official ciphers be placed in the custody of the Grand Secretary at Topeka and that the funds and equipment of this lodge be placed in the custody of Brother PAUL E . ROSS, of Whitewater.
This order to remain in force until the next Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge. °
J O H N W . NBILSON,
Grand Master. EXTRANEOUS ORGANIZATIONS.
During t h e year the Grand Master has been the recipient of voluminous correspondence from several associations and organizations, national and local in scope and purposes, and while recognizing the educational and altruistic spirit that actuates them, has, without exception, replied, that owing to the attitude and avowed intention of non-participation in these organizations by our Grand Lodge, no recognition could be accorded by him. FLORIDA RELIEF.
Immediately following the destructive hurricane along the east coast of Florida on September 18, 1926, the Grand Lodge of Kansas, through the Grand Secretary, proffered aid by wire to the Grand Master of Florida, for relief of' brethren and their dependents in the stricken area. Supplementing this telegram the Grand Master extended sympathy and assured the Florida, brethren that Kansas stood ready and willing to render financial assistance. After the survey of existing conditions was made, the Grand Master of Florida issued an appeal for aid. In accordance with our proffered assistance and in response to this urgent call for hel^ in aiding the needy members of the Masonic fraternity in Florida, a warrant for one thousand dollars was forwarded to Grand Master GARY B . FISH, with the request that this sum should be expended by him in aiding destitute Masons in that jurisdiction. The above action was taken by and with the consent of the Council of Administration and awaits your sanction.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
605
GRAND LODGE RELIEF.
From this fund, on my order, Warrant No. 394 for fifty dollars was drawn December 9th for the temporary relief of Brother WILLIAM F . KRAGER, a member of Magnolia Lodge No. 20 of Columbus, Ohio, but residing at that time in Minneapolis, Kansas. I commend the Minneapolis and Salina brethren for their assistance in this case and hope you will approve my action. Brother KRAGER has now made application for admission to the Hospital at the Ohio Masonic Home. COMMISSIONERS OF TRIALS.
In conformity with the legislation enacted at the last Annual Communication of this Grand Lodge regarding lodge trials, the following were appointed Commissioners of Trials: CHARLES .N. FOWLER, Salina Lodge No. 60.
RICHARD E . BIRD, Albert Pike Lodge No. 303. JAMES A.. CASSLER, McPherson Lodge No. 172. FRANK D . SPERRY, Ellsworth Lodge No. 146. J. FORREST AYRES, Greenleaf Lodge No. 232.
This Commission, with commendable dispatch and efficiency, prepared and assembled the necessary blanks for the proper functioning of the law, and the wisdom of the change in procedure in lodge trials has been fully demonstrated during the past year by the elimination of publicity, by overcoming the effect of undue influence and by securing an unbiased decision in the verdict. It is asked, " I s it enough that we act wisely, justly and swiftly when an imposter has been discovered and our temple profaned?" Though our aprons may be unspotted and our ashlars perfect, the building may be pointed at with derision because some workman has erred, but recognizing our responsibility, a friendly admonition may prove of greater service to the Craft than the rendering of a judgment. Let us seek to prevent the evil, that the cure may not be needed. In the adoption of the law governing change in procedure of Trials and Punishments, no provision was made relative to the disposal of any report made by the Commissioners of Trials. I, therefore, recommend that By-Law 34 (a) be amended making provision for the presentation and proper disposition of a report of their proceedings. I wish especially to thank the members of this Commission, who at great personal sacrifice have rendered such signal service to the Craft. DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTERS.
Among the appointments to which every Grand Master gives the most anxious thought are those of his own District Deputies. Since there are nearly 450 lodges it is a physical impossibility for the Grand Master to visit and keep in personal touch with them all.
606
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
The District Deputies are his immediate and personal representatives, the eyes and ears of the Grand Master, and to them he delegates certain of his powers. Each must visit, at least once during the year, every lodge in his district and make prompt report of same. These reports come in during the entire year and their study is one of the Grand Master's chief tasks. In no sense is the consideration they receive perfunctory. They are read and studied with care and invariably they lead to some correspondence with the Masters, commendatory, if possible, or if necessary, severely critical, but whether one or the other, always in a spirit of kindness and sympathy, urging renewed effort with suggestions for improvement of unsatisfactory conditions. In some instances a second visit was made by the District Deputy who gave help, support and advice as needed. As proof of the earnestness and exceptional work of the seventy-five District Deputies, I am pleased to report that every lodge in the jurisdiction has received an official visit from a District Deputy. Some of the constructive plans carried out and which have proven very beneficial are: 1. Under supervision of the District Deputy a District Conference of Masters and Secretaries was held at which various problems of an executive and clerical nature were discussed. 2. A summary of the instructions to the District Deputies, which were of interest to the local lodges were issued to the Master. 3. Another secured and forwarded to the Grand Master reasons for the absence of officers from District meetings. 4. A very excellent plan for imparting concise accurate Masonic information is followed by one of our lodges and I can heartily recommend its adoption as a means of Masonic education. At Communications when there is no regular work, assignments are made to several brothers to rehearse the Work Lectures of the degrees and during the ceremony of closing lodge, all oflicers are advanced one station. During the Communication, a typewritten set of questions answerable by reference to our printed laws, are presented and discussed. The questions were prepared by a member, thoroughly conversant with our laws, and much good has resulted from this method and in many lodges would be preferable to the topical or lecture method of, instruction. Any of these plans could be profitably adopted by others. On account of the removal of Brother HARRY K . LORENZ, from the Grand Jurisdiction, the office of District Deputy 'Grand Master of District No. 34 became vacant and Brother JOEL E . DAVIS of Towanda Lodge No. 30 was appointed to fill the vacancy and he has proven an especially efficient District Deputy Grand Master. It is through the District Deputies that the Grand Master keeps his finger upon the pulse of the Craft. Obviously therefore, the success of his administration must very largely depend upon the good judgment of his District Deputies.
1926-27.
•
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
607
The personal association, brief as it has been, has created a spirit that has manifested itself in an aroused enthusiasm and stimulated loyalty and devotion and I desire to express my most profound thanks and appreciation to all for their kindly co-operation and helpfulness. DISTRICT MEETINGS.
The purpose of our District meetings and the beneficial results obtained have justified the fondest hopes of those instrumental in their development, for they have led to greater proficiency and increased precision in our esoteric work. Attendance upon these meetings, not only by the officers but by as large a number of members as possible is eminently desirable. There is a dignity and importance that attaches to a well attended meeting, and interest and enthusiasm are inspired by the contacts of such a meeting. The interchange of ideas, the renewal of acquaintanceship, the meeting of Grand Lodge officers who are in attendance and the discussion of Masonic subjects, together with the scrupulous attention paid to ritualistic details by the Lecturer, all tend to a better comprehension of the tenets of the Craft. It is impossible for an inactive member to really represent Masonry, however mere attendance is of questionable value and while the attendance at some of the District meetings the past year has been somewhat disappointing, without exception, the zeal and interest manifested has been most gratifying and reflects a spirit that is encouraging. Following the receipt of the reports of the Lecturers on the District meetings, where non-attendance and unsatisfactory work were reported, the Grand Master wrote the Masters of these lodges and in many cases the Secretary also, requesting an excuse for their absence and their inability to properly exemplify the Work. In the large majority of cases satisfactory replies were received and in several instances the lodge, either on its own initiative or upon order of the Grand Master, secured the services of a Lecturer who held a School of Instruction, at the expense of the lodge. The following is a summary of the Lecturer's reports: Number Number Number -Number
of of of of
District meetings held lodges (including U. D.) lodges represented lodges not represented
Attendance. Total number of Officers of lodges Officers present Officers absent Members present exclusive of Officers Officers present Total attendance at District meetings
75 449 422 27
4,490 2,586 1,904
5,014 2,586 7,600
ROTUNDA.
608
PROCEEDINGS
OF
THE
Average attendance at each meeting Average attendance from each lodge Percentage of total membership in attendance
February.
113 17 9.47
The following lodges were not represented at their District meeting: Location. No. Location. No. Corning 13 Mulberry 261 Quenemo 270 Oskaloosa 14 Havensville 34 Bunker Hill 291 Waterville 85 Gove 302 Hoyt 327 Florence 114 Bennington 180. Kincaid 338 Oberlin 186 Denison 372 Bucklin 376 Onaga 188 Dwight 378 Tonganoxie 190 Alton 207 Emmett 387 Hepler 398 McCune 237 Perry 415 Soldier 240 Clafiin.. 424 Linwood 241 McLouth 256 Oskaloosa, Kincaid, Denison and Soldier were also absent from the District meetings in 1925. DECISIONS.
Many requests for rulings were made and were answered by citations to our laws. The following questions were submitted and answered as follows: "Can any part of a Masonic building, such as a room, furnishings, pipe organ, etc., be designated as a memorial to the memory of a deceased Brother? " Answer: "Yes." "Can a Master revoke the action of a lodge?" Answer: " N o . " "Can a brother prefer charges in a lodge of which he is not a member? " Answer: " A brother can not prefer charges in a lodge other than his own." APPROPRIATIONS BY COUNCIL OF ADMINISTRATION.
Trial
Commission.
The Grand Lodge, by its action at the last Annual Communication placed the matter of trials and punishments in the hands of a Commission of five to be appointed by the Grand Master and designated the compensation and expense allowance to be paid the members of this Commission.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
609
However, the necessary appropriation to cover these expenditures was not made and on March 26,1926, with the approval of the Council of Administration, the Grand Secretary was authorized to draw warrants during the year for this purpose to an amount not exceeding $5,000.00. Of this amount only $1,348.95 has been required to meet all expenses of the Trial Commission, the balance remaining in the General Fund. Monument. By and with the consent of the Council of Administration on May 11, 1926, the sum of twelve hundred dollars was appropriated for the purchase and erection of the Smith-Vanderslice Monument at Highland, which was authorized in 1925. Equipment. On April 12, 1926, with the approval of the Council of Administration, two hundred thirty-one dollars was appropriated for the purchase of steel equipment for the Masonic Library in Topeka. Painting. At a meeting of the Council of Administration held in Great Bend, May 11, 1926, the Grand Secretary was authorized to have the basement and north-west room of the Grand Lodge Office Building in Topeka, painted and five hundred eighty-six dollars was appropriated for this purpose. RECOMMENDATIONS.
By reference to our Grand Treasurer's report it will be seen that the cash balance in our General Fund is $30,371.64. In addition to this we have invested in interest bearing bonds $61,200.00. The fixed income of the Grand Lodge is of such a character that this balance can be reduced without endangering its resources. I, therefore, recommend that $52,000.00 of our U. S. Fourth Liberty Loan Bonds be transferred to the Endowment Fund of the Kansas Masonic Home. For many years our Grand Lodge has required a raising fee to be paid for each man.who is made a Master Mason, such fee becoming a part of the Endowment Fund of the Kansas Masonic Home. With this in view, and in fairness to the Craft throughout this jurisdiction, who have for many years contributed to the building and maintenance of the Home, I recommend that all applicants for affiliation from other Grand Jurisdictions, shall pay a sum equal to our raising fee, same to be placed in the Endowment Fund of the Home.
610
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
Changed conditions and increased demands upon the Grand Master's Contingent Fund render the present allowance of $1,000.00 inadequate and I recommend that the amount be increased to $1,500.00. CONDITION OF THE CRAFT.
Between the First Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge at Leavenworth, on March 17, 1856, with representatives from 3 lodges, having a total membership of 76, to the Seventy-first Annual Communication today, with representatives from 447 lodges, having a membership of 82,165, lies seventy years of eventful Masonic history and it is meet that we should consider the responsibilities and opportunities of our heritage. The challenge of Kansas Masonry to our youth should be, that from their hearts as well as from their lips, shall ascend a pledge of loyalty and devotion to our Craft. We must maintain those standards of conduct and loyalty to Masonic virtues which gave our predecessors moral fibre and constructive leadership and enabled them to fashion the cornerstone upon which rests our Masonic edifice of today and which we must not allow to disintegrate. The multiplicity of interests, both social and business, is proving a deterrant to lodge attendance and there is no situation of more vital concern to those of us who are interested in the future of Masonry than the lack of attendance at lodge meetings; there should also be an effort made to minimize the losses in membership due to suspension and to restore as many as possible of those who have been dropped from the rolls. By reference to the Grand Secretary's report you will note that the returns show a net gain of only 1,991 for 1926, as compared with an average gain of 2,756, for the past four years. While numbers are not a criterion of the real strength of an organization, to some extent this is reflected in the accessions to our membership. The thoughtful, earnest petitioner will be influenced more by the charity that has been dispensed, by the humanitarian service that has been performed or by the moral or patriotic influence that has been exerted than he will by the number of names that are on our rolls. A wise leadership inspired and upheld by those on the side-lines is essential to the proper functioning of every organization, religious, political or fraternal, and no lodge can achieve its full purpose without leadership of the highest type. Only those especially endowed by nature and who are willing to qualify to do the work well should be placed in positions of honor and trust. It is for the membership to decide what that leadership shall be. While no man, powerful though he be, can stand alone, the conduct of the affairs of .the lodge rests primarily in the hands of the Master.
1926-27.
GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS.
611
If he presides with dignity and firmness, with impartiality and courtesy, his manner and bearing will impart the proper atmosphere and tone to the entire lodge session. One of the fifteen articles in the old Charges for the Master reads as follows: " The Master ought to be wise and discreet and should undertake no work that he cannot perform and complete." An appropriate admonition for the present day officers who fail to make sufficient preparation for their work. To correct the situation some jurisdictions follow the practice of assigning the full work of the degree to each of the three highest officers, while others require the newly elected officers to pass a satisfactory examination in the ritualistic and monitorial work before installation. In order to increase knowledge of, and promote uniformity in monitorial work, it is the custom of many of our lodges to present a " Shaver Monitor " to each brother when raised to the Sublime Degree of a Master Mason. This Monitor was compiled by our Past Grand Master WILLIAM M . SHAVER, who was a distinguished ritualist and
Masonic scholar. It is prized not only as a gift, but enables the brother to have in his possession a copy of our lectures and ceremonies which should be committed so that when occasion presents itself, he can discharge his duties in a manner creditable to himself and the Craft. • These Monitors can be purchased at a very nominal sum through the Grand Secretary, who has also prepared a very beautiful and fitting talk to be used at the time of the presentation of the Monitor. CONCLUSION.
The years that have passed have been ever-changing years: Scenes and conditions are changing; old faces disappearing, new ones taking their places. Only a few of those of yester year remain—among them our beloved Grand Secretary, R.-. W.'. ALBERT K . WILSON, who
has answered Grand Lodge roll call forty-four times and who is just completing his thirty-third year as our Grand Secretary; and our Grand Treasurer, R.-.W.-. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH, who is attending
his thirty-second Annual Communication of this Grand Lodge and who, this year celebrated his Fiftieth Masonic birthday. They may well be called Veterans of our Grand Lodge. Figuratively and literally the work of our Grand Secretary has developed from pages, to chapters and volumes and it is due to his never ending labor and devotion that we have, today, records second to none in the galaxy of Grand Jurisdictions. Only through close association with our Grand Secretary can one gain an adequate conception of the amount of painstaking endeavor behind each.separate task and I wish to express my gratitude for the wise counsel and unfailing courtesy which he has invariably extended to me.
612
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Appreciating the encouragement and assistance given me by my other associate officers I wish to extend my thanks to all for their fealty, friendship and courtesy. My year's work has been lightened by their ready co-operation and loyalty and has stimulated me to greater efforts in behalf of the Craft. KIPLING says, " When the shadows lengthen, one contrasts what he had intended to do in the beginning with what one has accomplished," and in my case, I feel that I have been extravagantly rewarded for doing that which has lain clearly at hand. Recognition by one's equals arid betters is a reward of which any man may be proud and I confess to no small degree of pride and am deeply grateful for the signal distinction which the Masons of Kansas have conferred upon me. The truth of the statement that I am worthy of the honor rests with you. This expression of my gratitude is more than a mere act of courtesy. I thank you for elevation to a high place in our Fraternity, •for the help and encouragement given me in the past, but far more than preferment or power, I appreciate the friendships that are mine and that will remain as happy memories through life. When I surrender the gavel to my successor, tomorrow, I shall do so with a peculiar sense of satisfaction that always accompanies the performance of a task that, in prospect holds many difficulties, but fortunately for me, this has been a year when there has been a kindred craftsmanship and community of interest shown, and all have worked toward the same ultimate end^—The Good of the Craft. JYaternally submitted, JOHN W . NEILSON,
Grand Master.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
613
REPORT OF COUNCIL OF ADMINISTRATION.
R.-. W.-. GEORGE F . BEEZLEY, Secretary of the Council of Administration, submitted the following report, which, on motion of M.-. W.-. ELRICK C . COLE, was adopted: WICHITA, KANSAS, February 23, 1927.
To the M:. W:. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: The Council of Administration submits the following report: The first meeting of the Council of Administration was held in the Masonic Grand Lodge Building at Topeka, February 25, 1926. All members; as follows, were present: M.-.W.-. JOHN W . NEILSON, Grand Master. R.-. W.-. CHARLES N . FOWLER, Deputy Grand Master. R.-. W.-. FERRIS M . HILL, Grand Senior Warden. R.-. W.'. GEORGE F . BEEZLEY, Grand Junior Warden. Organization was effected by electing the following officers: M.-.W.-. JOHN W . NEILSON, President. R.-. W.-. GEORGE F . BEEZLEY, Secretary.
M.-.W.-. THOMAS G . FITCH was elected to succeed himself as a member of the Masonic Home Board for the four-year term. . M.-.W.-. ELMER F . STRAIN was elected to fill the unexpired term of the late M.-.W.-. WILLIAM I. STUART.
The Masonic Home Board was authorized to dispense Masonic charity in the same manner as heretofore for the ensuing year. The sum of $150.00 was appropriated and ordered paid to W.-. ROBERT P. MCCOLLOCH for his services in preparing the Special Address for 1926. No further business was transacted at this meeting. The Grand Master, in his report, has fully covered all other matters considered by the Council of Administration at other meetings. GEORGE F . BEEZLEY,
Secretary.
614
PROCEEDINGS OF THE
February,
GRAND TREASURER'S REPORT. . R.-.W.-. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH, Grand Treasurer, submitted the following report, which, on motion of R.-.W.-. CHARLES N . FOWLER, was referred to the Committee on Reports of Grand Officers: To the M:. W:. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: The following report of the receipts and disbursements of Grand Lodge funds is fraternally submitted: LAWRENCE, KANSAS, February 1,
1927.
WILLIAM FRANK MARCH, Grand Treasurer, In account with T H E M.-. W . ' . GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS. GENERAL FUND.
Receipts. 1926. Mar. 1.—Balance on hand $ 24,514 29 Received from Grand Secretary as per receipts Nos. 1 to 58 105,784 06 $130,298 35 Disbursements. 1926-1927.—Warrants paid Nos. 1 to 437 except Nos. 314, 388 and 394....$ 95,496 75 Transferred to Charity Fund.... 4,429 96 Balance on hand 30,371 64
130,298.35
CHARITY FUND.
Receipts. 1926. Mar. 1.—Balance on hand $ 11,354 74 Transferred from General Fund.... 4,229 96
15,784 70
Disbursements. 1926-1927.—Warrants Nos. 314,388 and 394..$ 4,542 29 Balance onlhand 11,242 41
15,784 70
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
615
I have in my hands the following bonds purchased by the Council of Administration: School District No. 79, Greenwood County, bearing 5 % interest: No. 15, dated July 1, 1911, due July 1, 1927 $500 00 School District No. 50, No. 7, dated Jan. No. 6, dated Jan. No. 5, dated Jan. No. 4, dated Jan. No. 3, dated Jan. No. 2, dated Jan. No. 1, dated Jan.
Brown County, bearing 6 % interest: 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1933 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1934 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1935 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1936 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1937 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1938 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 193:)
$500 500 500 500 500 500 500
00 00 00 00 00 00 00
Board of Education, City of Lamed, bearing 5% interest: No. 33, dated Jan. 1, 1914, due July 1, 1933 No. 34, dated Jan. 1, 1914, due July 1, 1933..... No. 35, dated Jan. 1, 1914, due July 1, 1933 No. 36, dated Jan. 1, 1914, due July 1, 1933
$1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000
00 00 00 00
U. S. Savings Certificates, {Purchased at $960.00): No. C 528640, due July 10, 1927 : No. C 528656, due July 10, 1927 No. M 71728, due July 10, 1927
$ 100 00 100 00 1,000 00
U. S. Fourth Liberty Loan Bonds bearing ^14% interest, as shown in report of 1926: 1 Bond $ 5,000 00 44 Bonds, $1,000.00 each 44,000 00 - 6 Bonds, $500.00 each 3,000 00 Total
$61,200 00 Fraternally submitted, WILLIAM FRANK MARCH,
Grand Treasurer.
616
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
GRAND SECRETARY'S REPORT. R.-. W.-. ALBERT K . WILSON submitted the following report, which, on motion of R.-. W.'. CHARLES N . FOWLER, was referred to the Committee on Reports of Grand Officers: To the M.: W:. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: For your consideration at this Annual Communication your Grand Secretary herewith submits his report: PROCEEDINGS 1 9 2 6 .
The Annual Proceedings for 1926 were printed and distributed within the usual time after the close of our last Annual Communication. HISTORICAL REGISTRY AND ABSTRACT.
Our historical registry and abstract books were posted up to date during the year from the 1925 reports. CHARTERS ISSUED.
At the last Annual Communication a charter was authorized for the formation of the following new lodge: Kingsdown Lodge No. U'!'-—On March 13, 1926, R.-.W.-. RUEL V. BUTCHER, Special Deputy Grand Master, consecrated, dedicated and constituted this lodge, with the following officers: FRANK O . INGELS
Master
JAMES E . TORRANCE CHARLES M . GROSS
Senior Warden Junior Warden
VBLMA S . HALEY F R E D W . HISS
Treasurer Secretary
LOUIS A. CAIN JOHN F . HITZ
Senior Deacon Junior Deacon
ROY C . HALEY EARL GROSS
Senior Steward •.
ALBERT A. HAAG
Junior Steward Tyler
LODGES UNDER DISPENSATION.
Antiquity Lodge, at Chapman, Dickinson County.—Dispensation issued February 26,1926. Officers: VICTOR L . OWENS, Master; JOHN A. ANDERSON, Senior Warden; ARTHUR H . LONG, Junior Warden,
Grinnell Lodge, at Grinnell, Gove County.—Dispensation
issued
March 26, 1926. Officers: ARTHUR M . WEIR, Master; DELL A. BORAH, Senior Warden; WILLIAM A. SHIRKEY, Junior Warden.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
617
BINDING VOLUME XX.
This year's Proceedings completes Volume X X and it will therefore be necessary that an appropriation be made covering the cost of binding this volume. HALL BURNED.
On June 5, 1926, the hall of Lenora Lodge No. 181 of Lenora, together with its contents, was destroyed by fire. They were furnished with a Book of Annual Returns, copies of the Proceedings, laws, set of sample standard blanks, and other necessary blanks and records. This lodge had failed to send in their original charter and it was burned. A certified copy, therefore, was engrossed under date of July 23, 1926, and sent the lodge. The minute book and ledger were not destroyed. RESTORATION OF CHARTERS.
During the year the charters of the following lodges have been properly restored wherever necessary, and certified photographic copies made, framed and. sent to each lodge, the original being placed on file in the archives of the Grand Lodge: Lawrence Lodge No. 6, Lawrence (copy); Melvern Lodge No. 22, Melvern (copy of original); Burlington Lodge No. 66, Burlington; Sutton Lodge No. 85, Wateryille; St. John's Lodge No. 113, Concordia; Ellsworth Lodge No. 146, Ellsworth; Dexter Lodge No. 156, Dexter; Haven Lodge No. 157, South Haven (copy of original); Sabetha Lodge No. 162, Sabetha; Farmers Lodge No. 166, Randolph; Greeley Lodge No. 211, Greeley (copy of original); Jamestown Lodge No. 227, Jamestown; Clinton Lodge No. 233, Burden; Soldier Lodge No. 240, Soldier; Tyrian Lodge No. 246, Garden City; Kilwinning Lodge No. 265, Pratt; Anthem Lodge No. 284, Scott City; Gove City Lodge No. 302, Gove; Wallace Lodge No. 318, Wallace; LaHarpe Lodge No. 325, LaHarpe; Horace Lodge No. 352, Horace; Chautauqua Lodge No. 355, Cedar Vale; Jennings Lodge No. 360, Jennings; Fostoria Lodge No. 392, Fostoria; Scranton Lodge No. 407, Scranton; Rosalia Lodge No. 434, Rosalia; Ulysses Lodge No. 435, Ulysses; Bendena Lodge No. 440, Bendena; Johnson. Lodge No. 441, Johnson; Kingsdown Lodge No. 447, Kingsdown. COMPLETE LIST OF CHARTERS FILED.
The list of all lodges whose charters have been placed on file in the archives of the Grand Lodge is again submitted in order that we may have a continuous permanent record covering this subject: Smithton Lodge No. 1, Highland; Leavenworth Lodge No. 2, Leavenworth; Kickapoo Lodge No. 4, Potter; Washington Lodge No. •5, Atchison; Lawrence Lodge No. 6, Lawrence; Union Lodge No. 7, Junction City; Acacia Lodge No. 9, Lawrence, (copy of original);
618
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
King Solomon Lodge No. 10, Leavenworth; Jewell Lodge No. 11, Jewell; Emporia Lodge No. 12, Emporia; Oskaloosa Lodge No. 14, Oskaloosa; Great Bend Lodge No. 15, Great Bend; Lafayette Lodge No. 16, Manhattan; Topeka Lodge No. 17, Topeka; Ottawa Lodge No. 18, Ottawa; Olathe Lodge No. 19, Olathe;' Grasshopper Falls (Valley Falls) Lodge No. 21, Valley Falls; Melvern Lodge No. 22, Melvern (copy of original); Palmyra Lodge No. 23, Baldwin; Osage Valley Lodge No. 24, Oswatomie; Oketo Lodge No. 25, Oketo; Pacific Lodge No. 29, Humboldt; Towanda Lodge No. 30, Towanda; Arcana Lodge No. 31, Doniphan; Auburn Lodge No. 32, Auburn; Mound City Lodge No. 33, Mound City; Havensville Lodge No. 34, Havensville; Hiawatha Lodge No. 35, Hiawatha; Council Grove Lodge No. 36, Council Grove; Paola Lodge No. 37, Paola;' lola Lodge No. 38, lola; DeSoto Lodge No. 40, DeSoto; Holton Lodge No. 42, Holton; Nickerson Lodge No. 43, Nickerson; Delphian Lodge No. 44, Garnett; Easton Lodge No. 45, Easton; Nine Mile Lodge No. 49, Lansing; Lake Lodge No. 50, Silver Lake; Orient Lodge No. 51, Topeka; Pottawatomie Lodge No. 52, St. Marys; Wetmore Lodge No. 53, Wetmore; McCracken Lodge No. 58, McCracken; Saltville Lodge No. 59, Barnard; Salina Lodge No. 60, Salina; LaCygne Lodge No. 61, LaCygne (copy, original burned); Adams Lodge No. 63, Oswego; Wathena Lodge No. 64, Wathena; Burhngton Lodge No. 66, Burlington; Frankfort Lodge No. 67, Frankfort; Hiram Lodge No. 68, Leavenworth; Altamont Lodge No. 69, Altamont; Carbondale Lodge No. 70, Carbondale; Baxter Lodge No. 71, Baxter Springs; Mystic Tie Lodge No. 74, Augusta; Wamego Lodge No. 75, Wamego; Erie Lodge No. 76, Erie; Delta Lodge No. 77, Medicine Lodge; Corinthian Lodge No. 79, Burlingame; Zeredatha Lodge No. 80, Cottonwood Falls; New Albany Lodge No. 8i, New Albany; Doric Lodge No. 83, Eudora; Sutton Lodge No. 85, Waterville; Sunflower Lodge No. 86, Wichita; Eureka Lodge No. 88, Pleasanton; Home Lodge No. 89, Centraha; Golden Rule Lodge No. 90, North Topeka; Marysville Lodge No. 91, Marysville; Girard Lodge No. 93, Girard; Constellation Lodge No. 95, Fredonia; Patriios Lodge No. 97, El Dorado; Benevolent Lodge No. 98, Abilene; Wichita Lodge No. 99, Wichita; EucUd Lodge No. 101, Lyndon; Keystone Lodge No. 102, Coffeyville; Cedar Lodge No. 103, Chanute; Frontier Lodge No. 104, Washington; Fortitude Lodge No. 107, Independence; Winfield Lodge No. 110, Winfield; Hesperian Lodge N o . I l l , Rossville; Blue Valley Lodge No. 112, Irving; St. John's Lodge No. 113, Concordia; Advance Lodge No. 114, Florence; Muscotah Lodge No. 116, Muscotah; Parsons Lodge No. 117, Parsons; Halcyon Lodge No. 120, Peabody; Clifton Lodge No. 122, Clifton; Republic Lodge No. 123, Republic; Meridian Lodge No. 126, Elk Falls; Palestine Lodge No. 127, Edgerton; Carson Lodge No. 132, Elk City; Crescent Lodge No. 133, Arkansas City; Clay Center Lodge No. 134, Clay Center; Cherryvale Lodge No. 137; Cherryvale; Dover Lodge No. 138, Dover; Signal Lodge No. 141,
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
619
Osage City; Newton Lodge No. 142, Newton; Minneapolis Lodge No. 143, Minneapolis; Gilead Lodge No. 144, Yates Center; Mt. Vernon Lodge No. 145, Beloit; Ellsworth Lodge No. 146, Ellsworth; Center Lodge No. 147, Marion; Thayer Lodge No. 149, Thayer; Wellington Lodge No. 150, Wellington; Douglass Lodge No. 151, Douglass; Lebo Lodge No. 152, Lebo; Luray Lodge No. 153, Luray; Dexter Lodge No. 156, Dexter; Haven Lodge No. 157, South Haven (copy of original); Active Lodge No. 158, Atchison; Robinson Lodge No. 159, Robinson; Saqui Lodge No. 160, Osborne; Sabetha Lodge No. 162, Sabetha; Greenwood Lodge No. 163, Fall River; Oxford Lodge No. 165, Oxford; Farmers Lodge No. 166, Randolph; Larned Lodge No. ,167, Larned; Parkerville Lodge No. 168, Parkerville; McPherson Lodge No. 172, McPherson; Belle Plaine Lodge No. 173, Belle Plaine; Western Star Lodge No. 174, Smith Center; Kirwin Lodge No. 175, Kirwin; Prairie Queen Lodge No. 176, Clyde; Burr Oak Lodge No. 178, Burr Oak; Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 179, Kinsley; Burrton Lodge No. 182, Burrton; Mountain Slope Lodge No. 186, Oberlin; Pittsburg Lodge No. 187, Pittsburg; Newahcuba Lodge No. 189, Stockton; Henri Lodge No. 190, Tonganoxie; Walnut Valley Lodge No. 191, Ness City; Royal Lodge No. 192, Lyons; Galena Lodge No. 194, Galena; Hays Lodge No. 195, Hays; Madison Lodge No. 196, Madison; Canton Lodge No. 197, Canton; Blue Hill Lodge No. 198, Lucas; Anthony Lodge No. 200, Anthony; Delphos Lodge No. 202, Delphos; Sumner Lodge No. 203, Caldwell; Downs Lodge No. 204, Downs; Friendship Lodge No. 208, Haven; Fulton Lodge No. 210, Fulton; Greeley Lodge No. 211, Greeley (copy of original); OUve Branch Lodge No. 212, Colony; Twin Grove Lodge No. 213, Severy; Walnut City Lodge No. 215, Rush Center; Ellinwood Lodge No. 217, Ellinwood; Corner Stone Lodge No. 219, Little River; Lebanon Lodge No. 221, Scandia; St. Bernard Lodge No. 222, Dodge City; Joppa Lodge No. 223, Leon; Anchor Lodge No. 224, WilUamsburg; Siloam Lodge No. 225, Topeka; Jamestown Lodge No. 227, Jamestown; Vulcan Lodge No. 229, Walnut; Ninnescah Lodge No. No. 230, Kingman; Long Island Lodge No. 231, Long Island; Greenleaf Lodge No. 232, Greenleaf; Chnton Lodge No. 233, Burden; Temple Lodge No. 237, McCune; Urbana Lodge No. 239, Urbana; Soldier Lodge i^o. 240, Soldier; Linwood Lodge No. 241, Linwood; Miltonvale Lodge No. 242, Miltonvale; Marmaton Lodge No. 245, Moran; Tyriah Lodge No. 246, Garden City; Whiting Lodge No. 250, Whiting; Galva Lodge No. 251, Galva; Oakley Lodge No. 253, Oakley; Ionic Lodge No. 254, St. John; Milan Lodge No. 255, Milan; Westmoreland Lodge No. 257, Westmoreland; Morton Lodge No. 258, Cheney; Beattie Lodge No. 259, Beattie; Mulberry Lodge No. 261, Mulberry; Attica Lodge No. 262, Attica; Kilwinning Lodge No. 265, Pratt; Mount Zion Lodge No. 266, Nortonville; Mistletoe Lodge No. 269, Conway Springs; Armourdale Lodge No. 271, Kansas City; Unity Lodge No. 273, Clearwater; Black Diamond Lodge No.
620
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
274, Weir; Windom Lodge No. 276, Windom; Barney Lodge No. 279, Dighton; Alpha Lodge No. 282, Jetmore; Preston Lodge No. 283, Cimarron; Anthem Lodge No. 284, Scott City; Argonia Lodge No. 285, Argonia; Lotus Lodge No. 286, Blue Mound; Oak Lodge No. 287, Lebanon; Cyrus Lodge No. 288, Hope; Emerald Lodge No. 289, Lakin; Paradise Lodge No. 290, Plainville; Beulah Lodge No. 291, Bunker Hill; Glasco Lodge No. 292, Glasco; Highland Lodge No. 296, Green; Apollo Lodge No. 297, Ellis; Samaria Lodge No. 298, Wilson; Cable Lodge No. 299, Arlington; Fargo Lodge No. 300, Liberal; Hamilton Lodge No. 301, Hamilton; Gove City Lodge No. 302, Gove; Albert Pike Lodge No. 303, Wichita; Avon Lodge No. 305, Westphalia; St. Thomas Lodge No. 306, Colby; Kansas Lodge No. 307, Herington; Alden Lodge No. 308, Alden; Syracuse Lodge No. 309, Syracuse; Hancock Lodge No. 811, Ft. Leavenworth; Santa Fe Lodge No. 312, Sublette; Severance Lodge No. 313, Severance; Norcatur Lodge No. 317, Norcatur; Wallace Lodge No. 318, Wallace; Vermillion Lodge No. 320, Vermillion; Caney Lodge No. 324, Caney; La Harpe Lodge No. 325, La Harpe; Horton Lodge No. 326; Horton; Arcadia Lodge No. 329, Arcadia; LaCrosse Lodge No. 330, LaCrosse; Rob Morris Lodge No. 332, Preston; Allen Lodge No. 335, Allen (def.); Formoso Lodge No. 336, Pormoso; Frederick Lodge No. 337, Frederick; Leoti Lodge No. 340, Leoti; Holyrood Lodge No. 343, Holyrood; Ashlar Lodge No. 344, Riley; Edna Lodge No. 345, Edna; Moundridge Lodge No. 346, Moundridge; Spivey Lodge No. 347, Spivey; Scammon Lodge No. 351, Scammon; Horace Lodge No. 352, Horace; Marquette Lodge No. 353, Marquette; Summerfleld Lodge No. 354, Summerfleld; Wellsville Lodge No. 356, Wellsville; Alta Vista Lodge No. 357, Alta Vista; Turon Lodge No. 358, Turon; Sylvan Grove Lodge No. 359, Sylvan Grove; Jennings Lodge No. 360, Jennings; •Geneseo Lodge No. 361, Geneseo; Powhattan Lodge No. 363, Powhattan; Valley Center Lodge No. 364, Valley Center; Bonner Springs Lodge No. 366, Bonner Springs; Plains Lodge No. 367, Plains; Stohrville Lodge No. 368, Bluff City; Roger E. Sherman Lodge No. 369, Kansas City; Maple Hill Lodge No. 370, Maple Hill; Macksville Xiodge No. 371, Macksville; Delavan Lodge No. 375, Delavan; Grand View Lodge No. 376, Bucklin; Waldron Lodge No. 377, Waldron; Zenda Lodge No. 378, Zenda; Buffalo Lodge No. 379, Buffalo; White City Lodge No. 380, White City; Wilsey Lodge No. 382, Wilsey; McDonald Lodge No. 383, McDonald; Tyro Lodge No. 386, Tyro; Emmett Lodge No. 387, Emmett; Spearville Lodge No. 388, Spearville; Natoma Lodge No. 390, Natoma; Fostoria Lodge No. 392, Fostoria; Saffordville Lodge No. 395, Saffordville; Wakefield Lodge No. 396, Wakefield; Lindsborg Lodge No. 397, Lindsborg; Mullinville Lodge No. 399, Mullinville; Melody Lodge No. 400, Ottawa; Wakarusa Lodge No. 402, Wakarusa; St. Francis Lodge No. 404, St. Francis; Kensington Lodge No. 405, Kensington; Scranton Lodge No. 407, Scranton; Arma Lodge No. 408, Arma; Haviland Lodge No.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
621
409, Haviland; Climax Lodge No. 411, Climax; Wilmore Lodge No. 412, Wilmore; Perry Lodge No. 415, Perry; Sharon Springs Lodge No. 417, Sharon Springs; Codell Lodge No. 418, Codell; Delia Lodge No. 419, Delia; Lecompton Lodge No. 420, Lecompton; Selden Lodge No. 423, Selden; Claflin Lodge No. 424, Claflin; Turner Lodge No. 425, Turner; Burdick Lodge No. 429, Burdick; Goff Lodge No. 430, Goff; Minneola Lodge No. 431, Minneola; Deerfield Lodge No. 432, Deerfield; Bestor G. Brown Lodge No. 433, Wichita; Rosalia Lodge No. 434, Rosalia; Ulysses Lodge No. 435, Ulysses; Overland Park Lodge No. 436, Overland Park; West Gate Lodge No. 438, Kansas City; Beaumont Lodge No. 439, Beaumont; Bendena Lodge No. 440, Bendena; Johnson Lodge No. 441, Johnson; Rexford Lodge No. 442, Rexford; Kanorado Lodge No. 443, Kanorado; Stanley Lodge No. 444, Stanley; Hutchinson Lodge No. 445, Hutchinson; Satanta Lodge No. 446, Satanta; Kingsdown Lodge No. 447, Kingsdown. MASONIC DISTRICTS.
As a matter of convenience it was found' necessary to make the following transfer of lodges from one district to another: Mount Hope Lodge No. 238 from District No. 41 to District No. 36. Brainerd Lodge No. 280 from District No. 36 to District No. 35. At the last Annual Communication a charter was issued for a new lodge at Kingsdown and it wa;s assigned to District No. 57. CHANGE I N DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTERS.
Owing to a vacancy in the office of District Deputy Grand Master which occurred during the year, the Grand Master made the following appointment: District No. 34
JOEL E . DAVIS
Towanda
GRAND REPRESENTATIVES NEAR OTHER GRAND LODGES. During the year the following appointments were made as Grand Representatives of our Grand Lodge: Alabama Eucador
ENEY F . YIELDING J. GABRIEL PINO ROCA
Florence Guayaquil
GRAND REPRESENTATIVES NEAR OUR GRAND LODGE. Upon the recommendation of our M-.'.W.\ Grand Master the following appointments of Grand Representatives were made during the year: Canada
;.CHARLES J W E B B
Costa Rica
AUSTIN J. PAIGE
Illinois Oklahoma Tennessee
CHARLES N . FOWLER DAVID A. NYWALL HUBERT H . HUBBARD
Chicago, 111.
Abilene Salina Formoso Galena
622
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
INDEXING PROCEEDINGS.
In accordance with the usual custom the Annual Proceedings of our Grand Lodge for 1926 were indexed and which completes the work to date. PORTRAITS OF PAST GRAND MASTERS.
Your Grand Secretary is striving to secure framed portraits of all Past Grand Masters to be hung on the walls in the Grand Lodge Building. During the past year several have responded to the request and these, added to those already contributed, make a total of thirty pictures. We are fortunate in having pictures of all our Grand Masters in the several volumes of our printed Proceedings. ADDITIONAL MUSEUM CASES. "
During the year two additional document museum cases have been purchased to meet the needs of this department in the Grand Lodge Library and Museum. , STEEL FILING CASES.
It was necessary to procure two commodious steel filing cases for storing stationery and other supplies. PAINTING BASEMENT OF GRAND LODGE BUILDING.
By authority of the Council of Administration the basement of our Grand Lodge Building was painted during the summer. This completes the interior decorations of this structure. HISTORY OF LODGES.
Continuing the subject of gathering data for compiling a history of all.lodges in this jurisdiction your Grand Secretary addressed another communication along the lines of those promulgated during the past few years, and it is gratifying to report that a number of our lodges have followed the suggestions and sent in not only a brief history of the organization of their lodge, but likewise pictures, programs and other information along these lines. In the communication sent out during the past year the lodges were advised as to just what had been sent in for this purpose. Too much importance cannot be attached to this subject, as now is the opportune time for lodges to furnish information along these lines, which in a few years cannot possibly be secured as all the older members will have passed away. Particular credit is due Brother BENJAMIN F . MCDANIEL, Past Master of Dexter Lodge No. 156, for one of the most complete and well arranged histories of any lodge in this jurisdiction. The sketch was accompanied by pictures and a copy of their By-Laws for 1879.
1920-27.
GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS.
623
Similar credit is due Brother NOAH F . SHAW, Past Master of Paradise Lodge No. 290 of Plainville, for an excellent sketch not only of the conditions which brought about the organization of their lodge, but likewise a brief biographical sketch of all the original members. Your Grand Secretary feels that the time has come when the necessary preliminary steps should be taken in classifying the material sent in from the lodges so that a complete report can be submitted to Grand Lodge annually. Therefore, at the close of this year such report should be made in order that due credit may be given the lodges which have complied with this oft repeated request of the Grand Secretary to establish a foundation on which a history of each lodge could eventually be compiled. COURTESIES EXCHANGED.
At the Annual Communication in 1925 M.-.W.-. Brother ELMER F. STRAIN submitted for consideration the feasibility of eliminating the petition, the ballot and the four weeks time for the consideration of all petitions for advancement as an act of courtesy where the candidate had been elected in some other lodge and had received none or only the first and second degrees. This subject was refered to a special committee, who submitted a report at the next Annual Communication (1926), expressing the opinion that in their judgment the petition should be received and acted on at a Stated Communication by the unanimous consent of the members present and that it was not necessary for a ballot to be spread thereon. They recommended that this subject be referred to the Committee on Jurisprudence with instructions to submit the necessary legislation. At this same Communication the Committee on Jurisprudence submitted the following report, which was adopted: Your committee have also given careful consideration to the subject of courtesies exchanged, as reported by the Special Committee, and we are of the opinion that this law should be changed so that in all cases where requests are made by one lodge to another for the advancement of candidates, the required four weeks for investigation and the spreading of a ballot be dispensed \^^th, and we therefore recommend that the law be changed in accordance therewith. However, as this change requires some amendments to the Constitution it will be necessary that final action be deferred until our next Annual Communication and the Grand Secretary is hereby directed to engross the necessary changes in the Constitution and submit the same to the lodges in the same manner and within the time provided by Section 7 of Article VIII of the Constitution. Your Grand Secretary, in preparing the necessary change in the Constitution to put into effect the recommendations of the Special Committee and the Committee on Jurisprudence, found that no change in the Constitution was necessary for the elimination of the four weeks time between the reception of a petition and the ballot thereon;
ROTUNDA.
624
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
however, in order to eliminate the spreading of the ballot the Constitution would have to be amended. Believing that it was the desire of the Grand Lodge to eliminate the four weeks rather than the spreading of the ballot, and in view of the fact that but two slight changes have been made in our present Constitution since its adoption forty-two years ago, your Grand Secretary felt justified in submitting the matter to the M / . W / . Grand Master, the members of the Special Committee and to the Chairman of the Committee on Jurisprudence, M.".W.'. Brother ELRICK C . COLE, for consideration as to the advisability of allowing the Constitution to remain as it is without any change whatever, but amending our laws, decisions and notes to the extent of eliminating the four weeks delay in receiving and acting on a petition for advancement accompanied by a request from some other lodge. This suggestion met with the approval of those interested and your Grand Secretary therefore refrained from carrying out the recommendation of the Committee on Jurisprudence, and the question is again presented to the Grand Lodge for final action at this Annual Communication. CONFERRING DEGREES IN LESS THAN THE LAWFUL TIME.
In posting up the historical registry it was found that the following lodges had conferred degrees in less than the lawful time, not allowing the four weeks to elapse between degrees: Delphian Lodge No. 44, Garnett. Patmos Lodge No. 97, El Dorado.Madison Lodge No. 196, Madison. Ulysses Lodge No. 435, Ulysses. In accordance with the action of the Grand Lodge one year ago your Grand Secretary collected the $5.00 fee in each of these cases. This fee was also collected from the lodges which were reported last year as having violated Section 6 of Article VI of the Constitution, in not allowing the required four weeks to elapse between degrees. REDUCED RAILROAD FARE.
As a matter of record only your Grand Secretary announces that the railroads have granted us a rate of one and one-half fare for this Annual Communication. LIST OF REGULAR LODGES.
Soon after the close of the last Annual Communication the 1926 copy of the List of Regular Lodges was sent each lodge.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
625
TRANSCRIPTS OF TRIALS.
During the year the following transcripts of trials have been received and transmitted to the Chairman of the Committee on Jurisprudence where an appeal was taken from the decision of the Commissioners of Trials: Marysville Lodge No. 91 against GEORGE T . MOHRBACHER, •>-EDGAR R . FULTON and JOHN E . RILEY; Newton Lodge No. 142 against
CARL W . HAMILTON; Tyrian Lodge No. 246, Garden City against CHARLES
S. FINELLO; Rosedale Lodge
No. 333 against
ALLEN
EDWARD BELCHER, and CHARLES R . ROSS; Hesperian Lodge No. I l l ,
Rossville, against LEON E . DANN; Mankato Lodge No. 87, Mankato, against JAMES E . MANUEL. CONSTITUTION AND BY-LAWS.
Since the publication of our 1913 laws there have been added forty-six by-laws and twenty-four decisions. Some of these by-laws ha!ve been amended several times and in view of the new law on Trials and Punishments, adopted one year ago, it is highly important that a new edition of our laws be published. We now have only a very limited number of copies on hand and as the work of preparing a new edition, submitting it to t h e ' Grand Lodge for action, and the publication of the same will require several years it is highly important that the printing of a new edition in the near future be given due consideration. As our present code of laws it very complete it will require but few changes or amendments; however, there should be a recodification in order that the law be made more specific in certain places and more readily understood by our members. There should not, however, be any general revision or amendments to these laws. In view of the fact that it will require possibly two years to prepare a new edition your Grand Secretary would recommend that a committee of two be appointed, with instructions to present a revision of our laws at the next Annual Communication if the work be completed; otherwise, at the following Annual Communication. CERTIFICATES FOR TRANSFER—DIMITS.
The following subject was presented to Grand Lodge one year ago through the report of the Grand Secretary, and referred to the Committee on Jurisprudence, who recommended that the matter be deferred until the next Annual Communication: There is a doubt in the minds of many of our brethren concerning the legality of By-Law 170, relative to the transfer of membership based on Section 2 of Article V and Section 5 of Article VI of the Constitution, and By-Law 115 of the Grand Lodge laws. Section 2 of Article V specifically provides that every petitioner for Letters of Dispensation shall produce satisfactory evidence of dimission from the lodge of which he was last a member. By-Law 170 provides that Certificates for Transfer may be used for the purpose
626
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
' February,
of signing a petition for Letters of Dispensation. This is in direct conflict with Section 2 of Article V of the Constitution. By-Law 115 provides for the granting of a certificate of dimission and the necessary proceedings before the lodge can grant the request. When such request is made, it may be orally or in writing at any Stated Communication, and if the brother' applying therefor is not an elective officer, has no charges pending against him and is clear on the books the request may be granted upon a majority vote. If, however, any brother give notice of the desire to prefer charges against • the applicant action shall be deferred not exceeding thirty days in which to file the charges. Section 5 of Article VI of the Constitution provides that a member not holding an-elective office, against whom no charges are pending and who is under no pecuniary liabilities to his lodge, is entitled to a dimit when a majority of the members sustain his application. The note under this section of the Constitution provides that the vote of the lodge dimits a member and cannot be reconsidered: the certificate issued by the secretary is merely evidence of dimission. In view of the above if under By-Law 170 the granting of a certificate carries with it full authority to issue a dimit later on, but of the same date as the issuance of the certificate, the brother's membership must of necessity terminate when the certificate is granted. It therefore appears from the foregoing that to transfer membership other than in the manner pro-vided for in the Constitution and By-Law 115, it will be necessary to amend the Constitution and this By-Law, REPORT OF ILLEGAL SUSPENSIONS.
From time to time your Grand Secretary has reported the illegal suspension of members where the lodges failed to comply with the law. Based on these reports the Committee on Jurisprudence has repeatedly cautioned the lodges to be careful and act only according to the regulations. One year ago this subject was again presented and referred to the Committee on Jurisprudence who recommended that the Grand Secretary be fully authorized to restore to the rolls the names of all members where the action of the lodge in reporting them suspended was not in full accord with the By-Laws of the Grand Lodge, and the lodges interested be required to pay all back dues on such members. Section 125 concerning suspension for non-payment of dues, .was amended in 1925 requiring that the order (the second notice) shall be made within sixty days after the Stated Communication next preceding St. John's Day in December. This amended law became effective on April 9, 1925, when the Annual Proceedings were promulgated. A number of lodges issued the second notice after that date, and the question was raised whether such suspensions were legal. The question was submitted to the M.". W.\ Grand Master and the Chairman of the Committee on Jurisprudence who ruled that all suspensions based on any second notices issued subsequent to April 9, 1925, were illegal as the new law requiring that such order (second notice) shall be made within sixty days after the Stated Communication next pre-
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
627
ceding St. John's Day in December became operative on that date (April 9, 1925). In order to ascertain whether or not the suspensions reported in the 1925 reports were legal your Grand Secretary took the matter up with each lodge interested and in all cases where the lodge admitted that the second notice was sent after April 9, 1925, he directed that the names of such members be restored to the roll and back Grand Lodge dues paid. The lodges affected by this order are the following: Smithton Lodge No. 1 .....Highland. Lawrence Lodge No. 6 Lawrence. King Solomon Lodge No. 10 Leavenworth. Jewell Lodge No. 11 Jewell. Emporia Lodge No. 12 ..Emporia. Lafayette Lodge'No. 16 Manhattan. Valley Falls Lodge No. 21 Valley Falls. Melvern Lodge No. 22 Melvern. Palmyra Lodge No. 23 Baldwin. Auburn Lodge No. 33 Auburn. Havensville Lodge No. 34 Havensville. Nickerson Lodge No. 43 Nickerson. Easton Lodge No. 45 Easton. Lake Lodge No. 50. Silver Lake. Saltville Lodge No. 59 Barnard. Salina Lodge No. 60 Salina. Baxter Lodge No. 71 Baxter Springs. Delta Lodge No. 77 Medicine Lodge. Corinthian Lodge No. 79 Burlingame. Sunflower Lodge No. 86 Wichita. Eureka Lodge No. 88 Pleasanton. Wichita Lodge No. 99 Wichita. Cedar Lodge No. 103 Chanute. St. John's Lodge No. 113 Concordia. Muscotah Lodge No. 116 Muscotah. Parsons Lodge No. 117 Parsons. Altoona Lodge No. 118. ....Altoona. Cherokee Lodge No. 119 Cherokee. Cawker City Lodge No. 125 Cawker City. Equity Lodge No. 131 Fontana. Crescent Lodge No. 133 Arkansas City. Gilead Lodge No. 144 Yates Center. Lebo Lodge No. 152 Lebo. Larned Lodge No. 167 Larned. McPherson Lodge No. 172 McPherson. Belle Plaine Lodge No. 173 .'. Belle Plaine. Prairie Queen Lodge No. 176 Clyde. Kussell Lodge No. 177 Russell. Hartford Lodge No. 193 Hartford. Hays Lodge No. 195 Hays. Madison Lodge No. 196 Madison. Fulton Lodge No. 210 Fulton. Olive Branch Lodge No. 212 Colony. Sincerity Lodge No. 214 Simpson. Walnut City Lodge No. 215 Rush Center. Garfield Lodge No. 235 : Leonardville. Meriden Lodge No. 236 Meriden. Linwood Lodge No. 241 Linwood. Peace Lodge No. 243 Louisburg.
628
PROCEEDINGS
Canopy Lodge No. 248 Scottsville Lodge No. 249 Stafiord Lodge No. 252 Milan Lodge No. 255 Medicine Valley Lodge No. 260 Kilwinning Lodge No. 265 Black Diamond Lodge No. 274 Beulah Lodge No. 291 Comanche Lodge No. 295 Samaria Lodge No. 298 Albert Pike Lodge No. 303 Goodland Lodge No. 321 Arcadia Lodge No. 329 LaCrosse Lodge No. 330 Lane Lodge No. 339 Olive Lodge No. 850 Maple Hill Lodge No. 370 Macksville Lodge No. 371 Dwight Lodge No. 374 Buffalo Lodge No. 379 Protection Lodge No. 384 Tyro Lodge No. 386 Hepler Lodge No. 398 Seranton Lodge No. 407 Arma Lodge No. 408 Haviland Lodge No. 409 Harveyville Lodge No. 421
OF THE
February, Grenola. Scottsville. Stafford. Milan. Lake City. Pratt. Weir. Bunker Hill. Coldwater. Wilson. Wichita. Goodland. Arcadia. LaCrosse. Lane. Elgin. Maple Hill. Macksville. ..Dwight. Buffalo. .- Protection. Tyro. Hepler. Scranton. Arma. Haviland. Harveyville.
INFORMATION CONCERNING THE TIME OF MAKING ORDER -FOR SECOND NOTICE.
With a view of fully advising all lodges concerning the amendment to Section 125 of the Grand Lodge Laws, adopted February 26, 1925, requiring that the order for the issuance of the Second Notice shall be made within sixty days after the Stated Communication next preceding St. John's Day in December, the Grand Secretary issued the following communication: To the Master, Wardens and Brethren of all Lodges in this Jurisdiction: BRETHREN: Section 125 of the Grand Lodge By-Laws as amended at the Annual Communication held in the city of Wichita, February 25-26, 1925, reads as follows: " A member, in arrea/s for one year's Lodge dues, shall be deemed guilty of neglect of his Masonic duty, and, by a two-thirds vote of the members present at any Stated Communication of his Lodge, may be suspended from all the rights and privileges of Masonry, and when any member shall be in arrears for two or more years it shall be the duty of the Lodge to take action and suspend or excuse him: Provided, however, That no member shall be suspended for the non-payment of dues until he shall have had thirty days' notice of such intended action from the Secretary, under the order and seal of the Lodge, by personal service or by registered letter mailed to him at his last known post office address, the registry receipt or returned letter to be evidence of sufficient service. Such order shall be made within sixty days after the Stated Communication next preceding St. John's Day in December."
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
629
The only change made in the above Section 125 was the addition of the words "Such order shall be made within sixy" days after the Stated Communication N E X T P R E C E D I N G St. John's Day in December." Under this amendment the Second Notice, Form N, must be sent within sixty days from the date of your Annual Communication and only on order of the Lodge; provided, however, that the First Notice was sent as provided in Section 124 adopted in 1920, and a report made at the Annual Communication. This Second Notice gives the brother thirty days in which to pay his dues. Therefore, any action taken toward the suspension of a brother must be within ninety days from the date of your Annual Communication. Any attempted suspension by a lodge based on a Second Notice issued later than sixty days after your Annual Communication, is illegal and all such names will be ordered restored to the rolls and back dues paid. Bear in mind the Annual Communications, at which time officers are elected and chosen, must be held at the Stated Communication N E X T PRECEDING St. John's Day in December. However, the officers so selected may be installed at the time of election, or at any time ON OR BEFORE December 27th. Fraternally yours, ALBERT K . WILSON,
Grand Secretary. SECTION 52, BY-LAWS, INCOMPLETE.
At the last Annual Communication Section 52 of the Grand Lodge Laws, providing for allowances for Schools of Instruction, was amended to read as follows: Allowances for Schools of Instruction and District Meetings.—The Lecturers designated by the Grand Master, and no other, shall be allowed eight dollars per diem and their actual and necessary expenses while actually engaged in holding schools of instruction and district meetings and their necessary expenses for transportation; said per diem and expenses, or either thereof, to be paid by the Grand Lodge. There should be added to this, the last clause of the old law, reading as follows: "or the lodge or lodges in the discretion of the Grand Master." PAYMENT OP MILEAGE BY THE GRAND SECRETARY.
Notwithstanding repeated warnings that the Grand Secretary has no authority to issue checks in payment of mileage to Grand Lodge there are always a certain number of representatives who fail to draw their mileage at Grand Lodge, and subsequently write the Grand Secretary requesting him to mail their check. As a matter of expediency in closing the accounts the Grand Secretary has complied with such requests, but in view of the fact that this practice is growing attention is called to the following report of the Council of Administration, adopted by Grand Lodge in 1921, and notice is hereby given by the Grand Secretary that hereafter no mileage will be paid by him after the close of Grand Lodge: In the past, our Finance Committee and Grand Secretary have been greatly annoyed and somewhat embarrassed, by some members.
GRAND MASTER 'S OFFICE.
630
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
who are inclined to devote their Grand Lodge trip to pleasure or their own private business. At our last Communication, this matter was referred to the Council of Administration, which directs me to say, and it may be made part of the record: No member of this Grand Lodge will be paid any mileage, unless he is present and attends the several sessions thereof, except for good cause, he is excused in writing, signed by the Grand Master. No payments for mileage will be made previous to the usual time, unless so excused, and not afterwards, except under the same rule. The Deputy Grand Master will assist the Grand Master in the discharge of this duty. If you have a good excuse, see him; if not, don't mention it. CHARTERS OF LAWRENCE LODGE NO. 6 AND ACACIA LODGE NO. 9, OP LAWRENCE.
During the year it was discovered that the above lodges were working under what was supposed to be copies of their original charters, but your Grand Secretary discovered when the charter of Lawrence Lodge No. 6 was placed in his hands to be filed in the archives of the Grand Lodge that this document was not a copy of the original charter in any manner whatever. I t developed that the names of the officers were not those to whom the original charter was issued, neither was the date that on which the Grand Lodge granted the warrant, July 14, 1856, but it contained the names of the three principal officers of Lawrence Lodge who served in 1873 and the charter is likewise dated October 17, 1873, the date on which the Grand Lodge authorized the issuance of a copy of the original charter which had been destroyed by fire in June, 1873. Upon further investigation the Grand Secretary found that the charter of Acacia Lodge No. 9 of Lawrence was of the same character exactly, not being a copy of the original, but contained the names of the o,*Rcers of this lodge in 1873, and bearing date of October 17, 1873, which is the date the Grand Lodge authorized the issuance of a copy of their original charter. . It therefore appears that both lodges, during the past fifty-three years, have been working under no authorized Warrant of Constitution, neither have they had a copy of the original charters which were destroyed by fire in June, 1873. The charters turned over to your Grand Secretary should be cancelled and placed on file in the museum of the Grand Lodge, to which should be attached a history of these old documents, and the Grand Secretary should be authorized to issue to these lodges certified copies of the original charters. BOOK OB INSTRUCTIONS TO DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTERS.
Since the adoption of our present system of District Deputy Grand Masters there have been issued from time to time three manuscript sets of instructions to these officers.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
631
The information contained in these instructions was primarily intended for the brother who was a new officer, and therefore had little knowledge of his duties. Owing to the many changes in our laws your Grand Secretary decided it would be advisable to revise these instructions and add such others as might be deemed expedient, and have them printed in book form. This was accordingly done and on July 1, 1926, one copy was sent to each District Deputy Grand Master, accompanied by a letter, requesting them to acknowledge receipt as soon as the book reached their hands. It is to be regretted that in a number of instances it required several letters from the Grand Secretary before an acknowledgment was made of the receipt of this valuable book, and out of the seventy-five District Deputy Grand Masters but twelve of them expressed an opinion as to the value of the contents, the ease with which ready reference can be made to the subjects therein contained, or the artistic work of the printer and binder. TIME FOR PAYMENT OF GRAND LODGE DUBS.
At the last Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge Section 95 of the By-Laws was amended, changing the time for paying the annual per capita tax or any special assessments from January 20th in each year to January 10th. In order that all lodges might have ample notice the following communication was mailed to each on April 24, 1926: To the Masters, Wardens and Brethren of all Lodges in this Jurisdiction: M Y DEAR BROTHER:—You are hereby notified that the Grand Lodge, at its last Annual Communication held in the city of Topeka, February 24-25, 1926, amended Section 95 of the Grand Lodge Laws to read as follows: "95. Grand Lodge Dues.—Every Lodge working under a warrant of constitution shall pay annually to the Grand Lodge a per capita tax of one dollar ($1.00) on its roll of membership, as the same appears on the Annual Report of the Lodge for the preceding year, and any special assessment. This per capita tax shall not be assessed against the members, but shall be included in the account for annual dues, and be paid out of the General Fund of the Lodge. Any Lodge which neglects or refuses to pay its annual per capita tax or any special assessment on or before the 10th day of January in each year, or which shall fail or neglect to make and transmit to the Grand Secretary its annual report on or before the 10th day of January in each year shall not be entitled to representation in the Grand Lodge following such failure." The amendment to the above section simply changed the time for paying the annual per capita tax and any special assessment from January 20th to January 10th; in other words, the annual report, as well as the dues and any special assessment shall be transmitted to the Grand Secretary on or before January 10th of each year. The failure of any lodge to comply with the above law deprives them of mileage and representation at the Grand Lodge. This notice is being mailed to both the Master and Secretary of all lodges in our jurisdiction in order that all concerned may be
632
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
fully informed so that the annual report, with the per capita tax and any special assessment, will be transmitted on or before January 10th of each year. Fraternally yours, ALBERT K .
WILSON,
Grand Secretary. In addition to the above, the usual notice concerning the' time for submitting the annual report and paying the Grand Lodge dues, as well as a display notice in large type, was forwarded with each blank annual report. From the above it will be noted that due notice has been given the secretaries, all officers and members of the lodges, and all District Deputy Grand Masters. HISTORY OF GRAND LODGE.
One year ago, through the report of the Grand Secretary, a Special Committee of three was appointed to begin the work of compiling a history of Masonry in this jurisdiction. Your Grand Secretary was appointed Chairman of this committee, but owing to his imany other official duties it has not been possible to give this subject the attention it so we!! deserves. Without doubt the Grand Secretary, because of the easy access to the records, is the logical person to do this work and for that reason he alone should be appointed as the committee so that when his other duties will permit he can devote some time to this work. It is a task which will require considerable time as it will entail a vast amount of correspondence and labor in securing information which is not now a part of the written records. But few of the early pioneers are left to tell the story and in the preparation of this history one important feature which should not be overlooked is the personal knowledge which the one who is assigned to this task should have of much of the early history of the Craft in this jurisdiction. REVISION OF EXHIBIT " T . "
Your Grand Secretary has deemed it wise to make some changes in Exhibit " T " believing it will more easily be understood and reflect the total expenditures annually so that one can see at a glance the amount of money received by the Grand Lodge each year and the disposition of the same through the various appropriations based on the laws governing the same. Where the amount indicates an excess of the receipts for any given year it does not mean that the natural expenses of the Grand' Lodge amounted to more than the receipts, but is due to investments or special appropriations for extraordinary purposes.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
633
DONATION TO THE MASONIC HOME.
On January 7. 1927, your Grand Secretary received a communication from Brother IRA D . OSBOENE, Secretary, Spivey Lodge No. 347, transmitting one $500.00 United States government bond, bearing i}>i% interest, due in 1928, being a contribution made to the Endowment Fund of the Kansas Masonic Home by Brother JACOB I. SNYDER, a charter member of Spivey Lodge, but who is now residing at Home Lake, Colorado. This bond was promptly forwarded to M.'. W.". Brother THOMAS G. FITCH, Secretary of the Kansas Masonic Home. BONDING LODGE TREASURERS AND SECRETARIES.
In 1920 your Grand Secretary suggested the desirability of all lodge Treasurers and Secretaries being bonded through the Grand Lodge, giving in detail the method by which this could be accomplished and the rate of premium on the same. This subject was referred to the Committee on Finance and Property who recommended that the subject be left with the individual lodges. Inasmuch as under the Constitution " a lodge holds its funds and property in trust for Masonic uses, and the Grand Lodge, being the common head of the Craft, is the legitimate successor to the trust," your Grand Secretary believes the time has come when this subject should receive more serious thought and consideration on the part of the Grand Lodge and therefore recommends that it be referred to the incoming Grand Master, who with the other members of the Council of Administration, shall take such action as they may deem best. DISREGARD OF GRAND LODGE LAWS RELATIVE TO MANNER IN WHICH THE FUNDS OF LODGES ARE KEPT AND PAID OUT.
At the last Annual Communication, in referring to the above subject, the Committee on Jurisprudence submitted the following, which was adopted by Grand Lodge: " It is the duty of the Secretary to promptly turn over all funds to the Treasurer, making proper record on the books provided for this purpose and it is likewise the duty of the Treasurer to receipt for these funds, make proper entry on the standard form of record book and pay them out absolutely on a lodge warrant of the standard form and none other. All such funds should be kept in the name of the lodge and only be paid out on warrants signed by the Secretary and approved by the Master. "The practice of Secretaries and Treasurers depositing lodge funds with their personal accounts, or depositing them in their own name separate from their personal accounts is most dangerous and must not be tolerated longer."
634
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Your Grand Secretary noted with care the various forms used by lodges in paying their annual per capita tax and out of the total payments 181 plainly indicated that the funds were neither being kept nor dispensed according to law. Each year the number of cases of misappropriation of lodge funds is increasing, which indicates that the law concerning the keeping and dispensing of the moneys of lodges is being violated. While it is not expedient to list any number of the many forms used in payment of Grand Lodge dues, yet as an illustration attention is called to the following: One remittance was issued by a Building and Loan Association; another was in the form of a check signed by the Senior Warden; a number were checks issued by business firms; a large number of individual checks signed only by the brother having the account in the bank in his own name; other remittances were made over the signature of the Secretiary, indicating that he was in charge of the funds of the lodge; other!? were signed with the name of the Treasurer, by the Secretary, indicating that the Secretary could check out lodge funds. This practice is not confined to the small lodges alone, but enters into the financial affairs of the larger lodges as well. ILLEGAL ELECTIONS.
It appears from the annual reports from the following lodges that the annual election was held on a date other than that provided in Section 6 of Article V of the Constitution of the Grand Lodge, namely, at the Stated Communication next preceding St. John's Day in December:
Circleville No. 20, Circleville Pacific No. 29, Humboldt Santa Fe No. 312, Sublette King David No. 416, Chanute
Elections held. December 27 December 7 December 27 December 27
Should have been held. December 13 December 21 December 13 December 13
1926-27
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
635
NO DATE o r ELECTION GIVEN.
The Secretaries of the following lodges failed to enter on the annual report the date when their annual election was held: Union No. 7, Junction City. King Solomon No. 10, Leavenworth. Lafayette No. 16, Manhattan. Valley Falls No. 21, Valley Falls. Eldora No. 28, Mapleton. Towanda No. 30, Towanda. Carbondale No. 70, Carbondale. Clay Center No. 134, Clay Center. Wa-KeeneyNo. 148, Wa-Keeney. Sumner No. 203, Caldwell. Walnut City No. 215, Rush Center.
Chase No. 247, Chase. Whiting No. 250, Whiting. Stafford No. 252, Stafford. Mulberry No. 261, Mulberry. Alta Vista No. 357, Alta Vista. Ciiba No. 362, Cuba. Powhattan No. 363,Powhattan. Denison No. 372, Denison. Seldon No. 423, Seldon. Claflin No. 424, Claflin. Beaumont No. 439, Beaumont.
NO DATE FOR HOLDING STATED COMMUNICATIONS.
The Secretaries of the following lodges failed to enter on the annual report the time for holding their Stated Communications: Union No. 7, Junction City. Lafayette No. 16, Manhattan. Valley Falls No. 21, Valley Palls. Melvern No. 22, Melvern. Towanda No. 80, Towanda. Halstead No. 46, Halstead. Clay Center No. 134, Clay Center. Sumner No. 203, Caldwell.
Greeley No. 211, Greeley. Soldier No. 240, Soldier. Chase No. 247, Chase. Stafford No. 252, Stafford. Alden No. 308, Alden. Cuba No. 362, Cuba. Denison No. 372, Denison. Grand View No. 376,'.Bucklin.
GRAND S E C R E T A R Y ' S CERTIFICATES.
During the year the following Grand Secretary's certificates were issued: No. 820. JOHN B . D E W E E S , Lyons Lodge No. 192, Lyons,'Kansas. No. 821. GEORGE GRIMSLEY, Allen Lodge No. 335, Allen, Kansas. No. 822. WILLIAM P. WELLS, Allen Lodge No. 335,?Allen, Kansas. OFFICIAL CIRCULARS. •
During the year the following communications have been issued: No. 311. Identification certificate and instructions to ticket agents in connection with application for reduced rates. No. 312. Official circular Annual Communication Grand Lodge, 1926. No. 313. Advising lodges regarding amendment to By-Law 95,— changing time for paying Grand Lodge per capita tax and any special assessments.
636
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
No. 314.
Advising lodges regarding amendment to By-Law 125 relative to time for sending out Second Notices and the suspension of members thereunder. No. 315. Communication relative to lodges furnishing a history of their lodge. No. 316. Communication relative to party by name of Stanley, claiming membership in Abingdon Lodge No. 48 of Abingdon, Virginia, imposing on the Craft. ANNUAL REPORTS.
At the last Annual Communication Section 95 of the Grand Lodge By-Laws was amended requiring the payment of the annual per capita tax on or before January 10th instead of January 20th as heretofore. This change in our law evidently did not work a hardship on the lodges as all annual dues and fees were received on or before January 10th except from two lodges—Spring Hill Lodge No. 56 and Altoona Lodge No. 118. The annual reports were all received within the time provided by law except four, namely: Kickapoo Lodge No. 4, Potter. Salem Lodge No. 228, Esbon. Meriden Lodge No. 236, Meriden. Virginia Lodge No. 315, Savonburg. One year ago seven lodges failed in this particular. Your Grand Secretary has withheld credentials from tH? above lodges. Although the summary of membership and membership tables reflect the reports submitted by all lodges, this was not accomplished without the usual trials and tribulations. Telegrams, telephone service, appeals to Masters and District Deputies were necessary in order to accomplish this. While this is true so far as receiving reports is concerned your Grand Secretary again calls attention to the fact that the REAL culprit is not the Secretary who requires almost imperative orders from his Master or the Grand Master to secure his report, but the one whose report is among the first received, found in error and when sent back ior correction is not returned until the Grand Secretary has exhausted •every possible avenue of authority to have it returned. Our present law does not reach such Secretaries and in the judgment of your Grand Secretary the time has come when we should have some regulations covering such cases. The above conditions apply not only to reports returned for correction, but also the return of remittances where the amount sent with the report is either more or less than shown by the annual report.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
637
It will be observed from the summary following that our net gain was 1,991, which is 142 less thaii last year, bringing the present membership up to 82,165, The increase is due somewhat to illegal suspensions in 1925, as practically all these names were ordered restored to the rolls by the Grand Master. The number of suspensions reported last year was 546 while this year it has increased to 689. Without doubt more than a majority of these reported suspensions are again illegal and without doubt will be ordered restored to the rolls. These illegal suspensions are based on a failure of the lodges to comply with Section 125 in ordering the second notice sent within sixty days after the Annual Communication. This section of our law should be further amended making it mandatory upon lodges to take definite action at the time provided by law, and either remit the dues or suspend the delinquents. SUMMARY FOR
1926.
Number members December 31, 1925
80,174
Increase. Number Number Number Number Number Number Number
initiated passed raised admitted restored omitted last report...: members lodges U. D
Number Number Number Number Number
dimitted..! died suspended expelled erroneously reported
3,530 3,337 3,385 858 151 228 43=4,665 Decrease.
Net gain Number members December 31, 1926
•.
1,036 927 689 19 3=2,674 1,991 82,165
638
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
ESTIMATED REVENUE AND EXPENSES FOR THE ENSUING YEAR.
Reve Fifty cents per capita on 80,174 Charter fees Miscellaneous Amount from Grand Chapter, Grand Council and Grand Commandery toward maintenance of building
$40,087 00 40 00 2,500 00 1,775 00
Expenses. Assistant to Grand Secretary $ 3,600 00 Binding Volume XX 1,200 00 Committee allowance (By-Law 49) 150 00 Expenses Grand Lodge Communication 600 00 Expenses and per diem of Lecturer 2,000 00 Grand Secretary's incidentals 1,500 00 Grand Treasurer's bond premium 87 50 Grand Secretary's bond premium 10 00 Grand Master's contingent fund 1,000 00 Grand Master's salary 800 00 Grand Treasurer's salary 100 00 Grand Secretary's salary 1,800 00 Grand Secretary's honorarium 1,200 00 Grand Master's apron 61 50 Grand Officers' portraits 50 OO Historical Registry and Abstract 300 00 Library, furniture, binding, etc 1,000 00 Mileage to Representatives (By-Law 51) 3,000 00 Mileage and expenses (By-Laws 49 and 50) 1,600 OO Minor salaries (By-Law 48) 150 00 Office and Library Building 3,000 00 Printing Annual Proceedings 3,500 00 Postage and express .' 1,000 00 Private Secretary, Grand Master 600 OO Salary Chairman Committee on Correspondence (By-Law 49) 300 Oo Stationery and Printing '. 1,000 Oo Stenographic and Clerical Help 3,000 Oo Taxes 2,500 Co
1926-27.
GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS. SCHEDULE
639
"A."
Being amount returned by subordinate lodges for the year ending December 31, 1926: Grand Lodge Grand Lodge No. Dues and Fees. No. Dues and Fees. 1.. ......................... :.. :... $ 142 00 53 .................................. $ 97 00 2.................................. 480 00 54.................................. . 162 00 55.................................. 129 00 3.................................. 2,451 00 4.................................. 111 00 57.................................. 79 00 58.................................. 191 00 5.................................. 405 00 6.................................. 6W 00 59.................................. 142 00 7 ............... :.................. 718 00 60 ...... :........................... 1,370 00 61.................................. 111 00 8.................................. 956 00 9.................................. 766 00 62.................................. 212 00 63.................................. 176 00 10.................................. 450 00 64 ............................ :..... 164 00 11.................................. 117 00 12.................................. 1,075 00 65.................................. 130 00 66 .................................. · 210 00 13.................................. 99 00 14.................................. 141 00 67.................................. 160 00 15.................................. 325 00 68.................................. 373 00 69.................................. 57 00 16.................................. 968 00 17.................................. 1,229 00 70.................................. 161 00 71.................................. 348 00 18 .... -............................. 439 00 72.................................. 99 00 19.................................. 365 00 81 00 73.................................. 104 00 20 ............ :..................... 74 .............................. :... 465 00 21.................................. 103 00 22.................................. 131 00 75.................................. 224 00 76.................................. 199 00 23.................................. 235 00 77.................................. 234 00 24.................................. 537 00 25.................................. 78 00 78.................................. 112 00 79.................................. 222 00 26.................................. 125 00 27.................................. 107 00 80.................................. 301 00 81... .......................... :.... 38 00 28.................................. 124 00 82.................................. 61 00 29.................................. 192 00 30.................................. 322 00 83.................................. 87 00 84.................................. 127 00 31.................................. 42 00 32 ........... :...................... 8600 85.................................. 94 00 86.................................. 1,480 00 33.................................. 107 00 34.................................. 90 00 87.................................. 125 00 35.................................. 307 00 88.................................. 191 00 89.................................. 95 00 36.................................. 270 00 90 ............................... :.. 37.................................. 362 00 888 00 38.................................. 529 00 91.................................. 312 00 92.................................. . 98 00 39.................................. 172 00 93................................. 291 00 40.................................. 179 00 41.................................. 80 00 94.................................. 328 00 95.................................. 317 00 42.................................. 409 00 43.................................. 124 00 96.................................. 144 00 44.................................. 228 00 97.................................. 1,138 00 45.................................. 87 00 98.................................. 411 00 46.................................. 97 00 99.................................. 1,882 00 100.................................. 233 00 47.................................. 83 00 101.................................. 165 00 48.................................. 105 00 726 00' 102 ....................... ;.......... 49.................................. 143 00 103.................................. 697 00 50................................... 207 00 51.................................. 2,474 00 104.................................. 158 00 105.................................. 144 00 52.................................. 103 00
COUKCIL OF ADMINISTRATION ROOM.
640
PROCEEDINGS OF THE
Grand Lodge No. Dues and Fees. 106 .................................. $ 382 00 107.................................. 860 00 108.................................. 68 00 109.................................. 117 00 110.................................. 626 00 111.................................. 164 00 112.................................. 103 00 113.................................. 355 00 114.................................. 259 00 115.................................. 77 00 116.................................. 105 00 117.................................. 727 00 119.................................. 232 00 120.................................. 302 00 121.. ............... :................ 165 00 122.................................. 116 00 123.................................. 74 00 124.................................. 45 00 125.................................. 135 00 126.................................. 55 00 127.................................. 102 00 128.................................. 76 00 129.................................. 270 00 130.................................. 82 00 131.................................. 90 00 132.................................. 102 00 133.................................. 865 00 134 ................... ~.............. 304 00 135 ............... :.................. 120 00 136 ... :.............................. 270 00 137.................................. 279 00 138.................................. 88 00 139.................................. 130 00 140.................................. 965 00 141.................................. 189 00 142.................................. 729 00 143.................................. 172 00 144................................. 253 00 145......................... ........ 300 00 146.................................. 280 00 147.................................. 302 00 148 .............. ;................... 232 00 149.................................. 110 00 150 .... ;............................. 611 00 151.................................. 300 00 152.................................. 161 00 153 ............... :.................. 89 00 154.................................. 234 00 155.................................. 130 00 156.................. ............... 164 00 157.................................. 114 00 158.................................. 512 00 .159.................................. 128 00 160.................................. 263 00 161.................................. 143 00 162.................................. 228 00
I No.
February •.
Grand Lodge Dues and Fees. 163 .................................. $ 66 00 164.................................. 315 00 165.................................. 209 00 166.................................. 119 00 167 ................................. : 360 00 168.................................. 70 00 169.................................. 191 00 170.................................. 67 00 171.................................. 292 00 172.::............................... 316 00 173.................................. 132 00 174.................................. 243 00 175.................................. 183 00 176.................................. 167 00 177.................................. 255 00 178................................... 74 00 179.................................. 204 00 180.................................. 93 00 181.................................. 135 00 182 .............. ;................... 145 00 183.................................. 137 00 184.................................. 231 00 185.................................. 109 00 186.................................. 213 00 187.................................. 1,524 00 188.................................. 227 00 189.................................. 142 00 190.................................. 141 00 . 191.................................. 203 00 192.................................. 271 00 193.................................. 160 00 194.................................. 169 00 195.................................. 269 00 196.................................. 231 00 197 ...... :........................... 209 00 198.................................. 113 00 199.................................. 258 00 200.................................. 203 00 201.................................. 194 00 202.................................. 81 00 203.................................. 205 00 204.................................. 181 00 205..................... ............ 164 00 206.................................. 196 00 207.................................. 142 00 208................................. 103 00 209.................................. 105 00 210.................................. 118 00 211.................................. 76 00 212.................................. 197 00 213.................................. 121 00 214.................................. 90 00 215.................................. 76 00 216.................................. 85 00 217................................. 112 00 218.................................. 122 00
1926-27.
GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS.
Grand Lodge No. Dues and Fees. 219 .................................. $ 179 00 220.................................. 90 00 221.. ............ :..... ,............. 134 00 222.................................. 585 00 223.................................. 187 00 224.................................. 114 00 225.................................. 1,272 00 226.................................. 71 00 227.................................. 97 00 228.................................. 64 00 229.................................. 109 00 230.................................. 218 00 231......................... ........ 73 00 232.................................. 140 00 233.................................. 192 00 234.................................. 130 00 235.................................. 72 00 236.................................. 234 00 237.................................. 166 00 238.................................. 139 00 239.................................. 62 00 240.................................. 97 00 241.................................. 78 00 242.................................. 104 00 243.................................. 154 00 244.................................. 115 00 245.................................. 127 00 246.................................. 283 00 247.................................. 70 00 248.................................. 71 00 249.................................. 95 00 250.................................. 85 00 251.................................. 110 00 252.................................. 232 00 253.................................. 156 00 254.................................. 188 00 255.................................. 65 00 256.................................. 169 00 257.................................. 104 00 258.................................. 160 00 259.................................. 106 00 260.................................. 101 00 261.................................. 171 00 262 ................................ ~. 101 00 263.................................. 146 00 264.................................. 127 00 265.................................. 286 00 266.................................. 138 00 267.................................. 189 00 268.................................. . 133 00 269.................................. 218 00 270.................................. 155 00 271................................... 750 00 272..................................953 00 273.................................. 132 00 274.................................. 189 00
641
Grand Lodge No. Dues and Fees. 275 .................................. $ 138 00 276.................................. 44 00 277.................................. 150 00 278................................. 165 00 279.................................. 93 00 280.................................. 92 00 281................................. 129 00 282 ..... ,............................ 108 00 283 ............................... :.. 155 00 284.................................. 111 00 285.................................. 76 00 286.................................. 91 00 287.................................. 179 00 288............................ ..... 86 00 289.................................. 108 00 290.................................. 184 00 291.................................. 112 00 292.................................. 104 00 293.................................. 120 00 294 ....................... :.......... 130 00 295.................................. 140 00 296.................................. 70 00. 297.................................. 243 00 298.................................. 139 00 299.................................. 109 00 175 00 300.................................. 301.................................. 153 00 302.................................. 59 00 303.................................. 2,970 00 304.................................. 51 00 305.................................. 87 00 175 00 306... ............................. ~. 307.................................. 383 00 308.................................. 8500 309... ............................. :. 170 00 310.................................. 192 00 311.................................. 644 00 312.................................. 64 00 ·313.................................. 90 00 314.................................. 142 00 315.................................. 192 00 316~................................. 43 00 317.................................. 88 00 318...................... ........... 113 00 319 ................. :................ 140 00 320.................................. 83 00 321.................................. 320 00 322.. ............................... 632 00 323.................................. 92 00 324.................................. 269 00 325.................................. 100 00 326.................................. 388 00 327.................................. 167 00 328.................................. 99 00 329.................................. 120 00 330.................................. 168 00
642
PROCEEDINGS OF THE
Grand Lodge No. Dues and Fees. 331...: .............................. $ 238 00 332.................................. 111 00 333.................................. 551 00 334 ............... :.................. 95 00 335.................................. 59 00 336.................................. 135 00 337.................................. 57 00 338.................................. 193 00 339 .............. :................... 89 00 340.................................. 76 00 341.................................. 193 00 342.................................. 62 00 343.................................. 118 00 344.................................. 163 00 345................................. 163 00 346.................................. 77 00 347.................................. 87 00 348.................................. 109 00 349.................................. 111 00 350.................................. 114 00 351.................................. 183 00 352................................. 82 00 353.................................. 158 00 354.................................. 76 00 355.................................. 134 00 356.................................. 124 00 357.................................. 118 00 358.................................. 123 00 359.................................. 180 00 360................................. 144 00 361................................. 104 00 362.................................. 210 00 363..................................101 00 364................................. 290 00 \365.................................. 69 00 366.................................. 287 00 367.................................. 72 00 368.................................. 81 00 369 ......................... :........ 863 00 370.................................. 98 00 371.................................. 186 00 372.................................. 67 00 373................................... 94 00 374.................................. 110 00 375.................................. 50 00 376.................................. 141 00 377.................................. 63 00 378.................................. 61 00 379.................................. 117 00 380.................................. 75 00 381.................................. 63 00 382................................... 88 00 383.................................. 163 00 384.................................. 192 00
I No.
February,
Grand Lodge Dues and Fees. 385 .................................. $ 113 00 386.................................. 65 00 387.................................. 91 00 388.................................. 105 00 389.................................. 80 00 390.................................. 129 00 391.................................. 113 00 392.................................. 70 00 393.................................. 110 00 394 ........... :...................... 138 00 395............. .................... 80 00 396.................................. 175 00 397.................................. 199 00 398.................................. 69 00 399................................. 52 00 400.................................. 169 00 401.................................. 127 00 402.................................. 141 00 403.................................. 86 00 404.................................. 137 00 405.................................. 114 00 406.................................. 106 00 407.................................. 92 00 408.................................. 175 00 409.................................. 107 00 410.................................. 76 00 411................................. 75 00 412.................................. 49 00 413.................................. 70 00 . 414.................................. 85 00 415.................................. 92 00 416.................................. 719 00 417................................. 84 00 418.................................. 78 00 419.................................. 82 00 420.................................. 78 00 421................................. 133 00 422.................................. 95 00 423.................................. 62 00 424.................................. 50 00 425.................................. 88 00 426.................................. ·66 00 427.................................. 90 00 428.................................. 64 00 429...................... ........... 61 00 430.. ............................... 97 00 431.................................. 47 00 432.................................. 65 00 433.................................. 447 00 434.................................. 81 00 435.................................. 61 00 436.................................. 169 00 437 ......... ;........................ 87 00 438.................................. 121 00
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
No. 439 440 441 442 443 444 445
Grand Lodge Dues and Fees. $ 33 00 69 00 24 00 38 00 36 00 80 00 294 00
OF KANSAS.
No. 446 447 u.D. Antiquity u.D. Grinnell
643
Grand Lodge Dues and Fees. $ 60 00 47 00 90 00 5 00 $98,820 GO
SCHEDULE
"B."
Being amount dispensation fees received from the following lodges: U. D. U. D. U. D.
Name. Antiquity Grinnell
Location. Chapman Grinnell
Total
Amount. $20 00 -20 00 $40 00
SCHEDULE
"C."
Being amount received account of charter fee for the year ending December 31, 1926: No. 447
Name. Kingsdown
Amount. $20 00 SCHEDULE
"D."
Being amount received account bond investment for the year ending December 31, 1926: Interest, Spring Township, Harper County $ 25 Interest, Fourth Liberty Loan Bonds 1,104 Interest, Bonds 1 to 7, School District No. 50, Brown County 105 Interest, Bonds 33 to 36, Board of Education, City of Lamed : 100 Interest, Bonds 14 and 15, School District No. 79, Greenwood County 25 Interest, Bonds 15 and 16, Spring Township, Harper County.. 25 Interest, Fourth Liberty Loan Bonds 1,105 Interest, Bonds 33 to 36, Board of Education, City of Lamed.. 100 Interest, Bonds 1 to 7, School District No. 50, Brown County 105 Interest, Bond 15, School District No. 79, Greenwood County 12 Bond No. 14, School District No. 79, Greenwood County.... 500 Bonds 15 and 16, Spring Township, Harper County 1,000 Total
00 97 00 00 CO' 00 03 00 00 50 00 00
$4,207 50
644
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
TOPEKA, KANSAS, January 20, 1S27. ALBERT K . WILSON, Grand Secretary, In account with T H E M.'. W / . GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS. 23r
' ' ^ ^ ^ ACCOUNT.
Received from lodges, as per Schedule " A " $ 98,820 GO Received as per Schedule " B " 40 00 Received as per Schedule " C " 20 00 Received as per Schedule " D " 4,207 50 Received account Sample Standard Blanks, Lodges Nos. 2, •41,104,118,139,158,186,293,361,393,400,402,420 13 00 Received account certification to Life Membership Certificates '. : 13 25 Received account fees and dues from members of defunct lodges 26 OO Received account overTpayment of mileage: Ben S. Paulen, $3.59; Minneapolis Lodge No. 143, $6.92 10 51 Received account special dispensation fees, (Loucks, 1925) 10 00 Received account special dispensation fees, (Neilson,.1926) 185 00 Received account payment for lost Ciphers, Lodges Nos. 38, 94, 181, 260, 297, 416, 422, 430 160 00 Received account Books of Annual Returns 9 00 Received account sale waste paper 6 86 Received account penalty for conferring degrees out of time: Lodges Nos. 14, 44, 97, 118, 156, 196, 240, 277, 436 45 00 Received account refund from The Lilley Company (apron case) 9 18 Received account daily balance interest 433 76 Received from Grand Chapter, R. A. M., account maintenance Office and Library Building 850 00 Received from Grand Council, R. & S. M., account maintenance Office and Library Building 350 00 Received from Grand Commandery, K. T., account maintenance Office and Library Building 575 00 Total
$105,784 06
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
645
ToPEKA, KANSAS, January 20, 1927. T H E M.-.W.'. GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS,
In account with ALBERT K . WILSON, Grand Secretary. 1927. Jan. 20.—Paid W. F. March, Grand Treasurer, since last report $105,784 06 Fraternally submitted, ALBERT K .
WILSON,
Grand Secretary,
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KANSAS.
647
6
25
Jan.
J a n . 25
25
2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 6
0 25
0 26 6 27
Jan.
Fob. Feb. Fob. Feb. Feb. Feb. Fob. • Feb. Feb. Feb. Fob. Fob.
Fob.
Fob. Fob.
7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24
Bon S. Paulon, C o m m i t t e e Allowance E a r l T. Pylo, C o m m i t t e e Allowance.... Elrick C. Colo, C o m m i t t e e Allowance Ellsworth B . Sewell, J r . , C o m m i t t e e
R i c h a r d E . Bird, Spl. Appr. Co. of
Charles N . Fowler, Spl. Appr. Co. of
Albert K. Wilson
D. D. Wright
F r e d E . Brooks, C o m m i t t e e AUow-
Robert H. Montgomery, Committee
1
In Favor of
2 3 4 5
to u
1
1926. J a n . 25
O
U
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•o 3
$ 30 75
22 68
s
8 u C
$
. 00 00 00 00
25 25 30 20 25 50 50
00 00 00 00 00 00 00
26 00
25 10 25 40
'3 to
*
WARRANT ACCOUNT.
$
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35 20 00 GO
S
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2 50
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$
2 98
0,
1 60 40 7 75 20 15 78 00
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15 15 15 15 15 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 27
34 35 3() 37 3H 3!) 40 41 42 43 44 45 4(i 47
50 51 52 53 54
3 59
.S 00 :t til : -! 62 H 03 H 04 3 65
Alar
Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar
Keb. 27 5»i Keb. 27 57 Keb. 27 58
Feb. 27 55
Keb. 27 Keb. .27 Keb. 27 Keb. 27 Feb. 27
Fob. 27 49
Feb. 27 48
Feb. Keb. Keb. Pnb. Keb. Keb. Keb. Keb. Fob. Keb. Keb. Fob. Keb. Feb.
KBb. 15 32 Feb. 15 33
Kob. 15 31
F'fib. (i 29 iH'ob. 15 30
Fob.
A. W . W h i t s i t t Sullivan A r t Store T o p o k a P u r e W a t e r Co D o u b l e d a y Pago & Co., L i b r a r y furn i t u r e , binding, etc American M u l t i g r a p h Sales Co T h e Lilley Co., G r a n d M a s t e r ' s Apron D . A. M c M u U e n B. W . Kraft Albert K. Wilson F . H . Wilson John F. Strickrott J o h n W . Noilson J o h n W . Noilson, P r i v a t e Secretary.. F . H . Wilson A. B . Burge R e m i n g t o n T y p e w r i t e r Co Crano & C o m p a n y J o h n P . Strickrott Green Scales W . P . M a r c h , Gr. T r e a s . , Mileage t o R e p r e s e n t a t i v e s (By-Law 51).. W . F . M a r c h , Gr. T r e a s . , Mileage & Expenses (By-Laws 49-50) E r n e s t R. Ambrose, Chr., Expenses G r a n d Lodge Communication.. American R a i l w a y E x p . Co Albert K. Wilson T o p e k a Edison C o Topeka Edison Co C r o s b y B r o t h e r s Co., L i b r a r y furnit u r e , binding, etc S t a n d a r d Mailing M a c h i n e Co John F. Strickrott Albert IC. Wilson R o b e r t P . McColloch, Spl. Appr. Co. of Administration R o b e r t P . McColloch, Spl. Appr. Co. of Administration P o s t a l Telegraph-Cable Co Sullivan A r t Store R o m s t c d t Greenhouse T o p e k a P u r e W a t e r Co T o p e k a P u r e W a t e r Co T o p e k a Edison C o 9 60
1.50 00
27 50
500 00
1,388 15
2,662 87
61 83
29 50
600 00 300 00 150 00
$ 1,000 00
00 50 48 56 50
25 14 00 10 60 2 40
2 77 7 50 9 31
7 50
10 37 1 9 2
45 27 9 50
2 85 6 25
98 00
$
1 44 350 00
40 19 30
73 SO 40.
80
Co
o b la o
It.
to
1
In Favor of
8 19 19 19 19 19
78 79 80 81 82 83
Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar. Apr.
26 26 26 26 26 26 26 2
87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94
M a r . 19 84 M a r . 19 85 M a r . 19 86
Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar.
City Water Works T h e LlUoy Co
K, R. E b e y
ICansas B a n k e r s S u r e t y Co., G r a n d Treasurer's Bond Premium P . H . Wilson
Albert K. Wilson, L i b r a r y furniture,
C o n t r a l - T o p e k a P a p e r Co Albert K. Wilson
1926. M a r . 3 66 67 M a r . 3 68 69 .1. C. Darling Co Mar. 8 70, M a r . S 71 M a r . 8 72 M a r . 8 73 M a r . 8 74 M a r . 8 75 M a r . 8 76 M a r . 8 77 K e t c h e s o n P t g . Co., P r i n t i n g Annual
VI
•a 3
S
87 50
2 OS
182 24
il
u
c .
3
WARRANT
$
300 00 150 00 125 00
60
a S'o ^e s v-O
$
AccotNT—Continued.
00 24 66 50
50 00 90 50 90 66
9 IS
7 10 5 2
10 5 14 3 6
2 00
[a
$
4 50
1 00
1 50
s e
s: e .
S
4 02
$
1
85 00 34 35 18 00
40
3 55
2 00 1 60
"•.•S 3
to t; CO f 1
H tt!
o
Co
to >. o
o
ft) o
(35
7 113
Apr.
Apr.
7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 21 21 21 21 21 21 21 21 21 21 21 21 21 21 24
7 112
Apr.
Apr. Apr. Apr. A pr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr.
2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 7
114 115 IIG 117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124 125 12G 127 128 129 130 131 132 133 134 135 136
90 97 98 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 111
2 95
Apr.
Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr.
F. H. Wilson
Stanford M . S m a r t
.John F . S t r i c k r o t t
Albert K. Wilson. .
.1. C. Darling Co
Albert K. Wilson.. .
. . .
F r e d Heis M o n u r n e n t Co., Spl. Appr.
H o r n e r - L o y c P r i n t & Bbx Co., Spl.
J. C. Darling Co C r a n e & C o m p a n y . Spl. Appr. Co. of
N . E . Keller
Charles N . Fowler, Spl. Appr. Co. of
1,200 00
18 00
5 85
224 99
500 00
'
gpo og
15 03 50 00 00 50
17 , 8 3 3 4 1 5 2 160
RO 25 50 10 35 45 76 50 05
75
7 50 60 2 00 24 60
4 43 12 3 21 10
30
5 00 1 60
60 00 60 00 00 SO
14 63
61 13 50
11 16 1 63 3 35
$
79 34 SO 18 81 55
82 28
as en
Co
o
o b o
b
May May
May
May May May
Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apri Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. May May
144 145 140 147 148 149 150 151 152 153 154 155 150 157 ( 158 159 0 100 0 101 102 f 103 104 ( 105 0
29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 30 30 6 C
Albert K. Wilson
L e a v e n w o r t h Floral Co
Sullivan A r t Store
Soxithwestern Bell Tel. Co
C e n t r a l - T o p e k a P a p e r Co Crane & Company
D, 0 . Coe J o r d a n Electric Co T o p c k a Edison Co
Albert K. Wilson
Appr.
George W. • H u t c h i s o n ,
Spl.
N a t i o n a l Geographic Society, Library
Apr. 20 143
Favor of
Apr. 20 142
K. E . Ebey
In
Ketchoson P r i n t i n g Co., P r i n t i n g An-
4:1
137 138 139 140 141
1026. Apr. 24 Apr. 24 Apr. 24 Apr. 24 Apr. 24
3 to to
1
2,000 00
3 GO
$ 2,994 04
to
e
3
00
$
150 00 100 00
"3 .
to
0
<e s
VS
00 . „
$
WARRANT ACCOUNT—Continued.
5 2 46 5 1 1
07 30 15 50 50 33 00 95 13 00 05 50
1 00 1 19 35 3 3
c
e S
$
2 75
50 95
se
c e .
S 18 33
1=
$
0
4 2 18 4
75 00 35 05
85 00
$
50 80 74 10
55 93
CT31
«S to 3
o
b »^ o
o o
05
6 lOG G 107 0 1G8
G 1G9 0 170 G 171 G 172 G 1V3 G 174 G 175 G 176 G 177 1ft 178. 1ft 179 15 180 16 181 15 182 15 183 15 184 '2 ft185 25 180 2ft 187 25 188 25 189 25 190 25 191 25 192 25 193 2ft 194 25 195 ft 19G ft 197 ft 198 ft 199 ft 200 5 201 ft 202 5 203 5 204 5 205 5 200
5 207
May May May
May May May May May May May May May May May May May May May May May May May May May May May May May May May .June June June June June June June June June June June
Juno
R a l p h F . M o o r e , Spl. Appr. Co. of
R a l p h F . M o o r e , L i b r a r y furniture,
Southwestern Bell Tel. Co
Albort K. Wilson
A l b e r t ' K . Wilson
City Water Works
231 00
06 00
K. R. E b e y
300 00 200 00 2ft 00
300 00 150 00
43 50
IGO. 75
450 00
F . H . Wilson
Albort K. Wilson
William F . M a r c h
Albert K. Wilson
B. W . Kralf
J. L . Oowell D . H . Forbes
P a n t a g r a p l i P r i n t i n g & Sta. Co.. List
00 00 00 41 13 80 2 50 21 00 41 19 25
20 12 5 20
10 00
7 00 10 92 4 60
14 00
4 50
0 00
12 69
2 82 00 00 (JO 20 25 18
10 80 1 50 1 60
3 50 4 90 23 75
85 00
1 00
24 2 1 52 30 33
b
o
GRAND SECRETAlW'S OFFICE.
~
";os
.<:
.,
~...
1 225 I 220 I 227
1228 1229 1230 1 231 8232
1224
July
July .July July July July July July July
Jlmo 25 218 .Juno 25 210 Juno 2.5 220 July 1 221 July 1222 July 1 223
.Juno 17215 .Juno 17 210 .Juno 25 217
.Juno 17 214
:luno 17 212 .JUIlO 17 213
.Juno 10 209 .Juno 10 210 Juno 17 211
1!)20. .Juno 8208
~
<;
<\)
'"'" .....
;os
-ci<\) <\)
'" " ~
:::::
~
Charlos N. Fowler, Cllr., Spl. Appr. Co. of Administration . 1) 500 00 ... Albert K. ·Wilson ...... . Sullivan Art Store ................................. . Albort K. Wilson, Library furnituro. binding, etc ............... . 3 05. Albort K. Wilson ................................. . Crane & Company. :;pl. Appr. Co. of Adlninistration ......................... . 7 10 .. Paul l\1. Martin, Spl. Appr. Co. of Administration ........... . 120 92 .. Topeka Edison Co ......... .. ................ 1<. II. Wilson ........................... . $ B. W. Kraff, Spl. Appr. Co. of Adnlinistl'aLion .. ". . ... " ........ . 580 00 . .K. H. Ebey ............... . A. H. Burgo . G reon Seal OR ........................ .. KetchoRon Printing Co .... .. C"ane & Compmly ................................ . Ye Trapp Print Shop. Spl. Appr. Co. of Administration ..................... . 0.5 (;3. ~'red IIois 1',lonument Co .. BpI. Appr. Co. of Adminis(;mtion 44 00 ... Southwestern Bell '1'01. 00 .. Tho LiJley Co ............... . John ]<'. Strickrott .... .. City 'Water 'Vorks ......... .. Topeka Pure 'Vater Co .fordan Eloctric Co ............................ . Gem Grocory & Moat Market............ .. ................ . F. II. Wilson ........................................ ..
In Favor of
.; ;os c<\)
00
6S 00 150 00 ..
aoo
tJ)
<;'"
...
.:;l
.;
"
'..:8><'
~~;:l
~
...."'.,'" ~.~~
WARRANT ACCOUNT-Continued.
$
50 7.5 2 00
2 00 ........... .
J4 85 12 ():J 2 50
5 00
::I 50
597 :::::::::::::::
4 75 .. I 20 .. 2 00 .. 2 55 ..
85 00
2.'> 25 2.'^ 2fi 25 25 25 25
Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug Sopt Sept
H( 2 2
•M
M:
•M:
258 25U 260 •2iil 202
18 18 IS 18 18
Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug.
263 264 265 206 26V 268 26!) 2V0 2V1 2V2 2V3 2V4 2Vft 2VB
R 233 8 234 S 235 Iti 23(3 1(1 23V 1(1 2 3 8 ](i 2 3 0 24 240 24 2 4 1 24 242 2(i 2 4 3 2(i 2 4 4 2(i 2 4 5 2(i 2 4 6 30 247 HU 2 4 8 ;^o 22 45 90 :«) 80 251 •M) 2 5 2 4 253 4 254 4 255 4 256 4 257
.Tlllv .hilv .lulv .llllv July July J lily July July July July July July July July .TubJuly July July July Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug.
H
R
F
K
Ebey
Wilson
Wilson
R
15 b o y
F
H
Wilson
Albert K. Wilson, Library
K
furniture,
B . W . K r a f T , S p l . A p p r . C o . of Acl-
H
F
2 00
2 1 8 5i)
00
300 00 150 00
50 00
450 00 300 00
25 on
200
300 00 150 00 100 00
50
35
8
35 40
2 50 3 50
2 60 5 00
1 44 2 50
8
20 00 1 25
1 00
3 60
5
1
51
51
4 80
540
$
99
9 45
50
80
85 00 4 98 1 50
21 90
1 60 1 CO
85 00
3
2 5 65
1 60 1 6 64 3 SO
:
OJ
Co Si
t!^ i.
>»•
o t) O ta
trl
>
fe
Ci
M
M
CI
h^
v. u 3
1
Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct.
1 300 1 301 1 302 1 303 4 304 4 305 4 30G 4 307 e 308
0 Q 1926. Sept. 2 277 Sept. 2 278 Sept. 2 279 Sept. 2 280 S e p t . 2 281 Sept. 2 282 S e p t . 2 283 Sept. 9 284 S e p t . 9 285 Sept. 9 280 S e p t . 9 287 Sept. 20 288 Sept. 20 289 Sept. 20 290 S e p t . 25 291 Sept. 25 292 Sept. 25 293 Sept. 25 294 Sept. 25 295 Sept. 25 296 Sept. 25 297 298 Sept. 25 299 Oct. 1
'•-1
CO
3
•«
Crosby Brothers Albert K. Wilson
Balpli F . M o o r e , L i b r a r y furniture, $ binding, e t c Albert K. Wilson
F . H . Wilson A. B . Buijge
Albert K. Wilson
D. H. Forbes
In Favor of
42 00
cj
(u C
3 o
$
300 00 150 00
300 00
02
V.
to
(
."8
$
WARRANT ACCOUNT— Continued
21 84
2 50 9 28
8 00
98 3 50 20 00
7 80 2 50
e
•a
60
S
1 19
230 00
Si
•1?
c e
•a s o .
$
6 29
200 00
3 86
Sw
C3 *0
S
C3)
5
•
4 30 2 75 G 30 76
16 50 1 60
85 00
i 05
80
21 55
1 60 1 00 45
•a 3iC
$
152 70
^ 3
05
to
O
Q
to
ts
.O O tq
*T3
05
23 324 •23 325 '23 320 23 327 23 328 23 329 23 330 25 331
Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct.
Oct. 2.'> 332 Oct. 2.') 333 Oct. 21) 334 N o v 3 335 N o v 3 330 N o v 3 337 N o v 3 33S N o v 3 339 N o v 3 340 N o v 3 341 N o v 3 342 N o v 3 343 N o v 3 344 N o v 3 345 N o v 3 340 N o v 3 347 N o v 3 348 N o v 3 349 N o v 3 350
13 31fi 13 317 18 31S 1<) 319 19 320 1!) 321 10 322 I'J 323
Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct.
Oct. 13 315
Oct. fi 309 Oct. (i 310 Oct. (>311 Oct. () 312 Oct. (>313 Oct. 13 314
N . W . Mull
D . H . Forbes
Albert K. Wilson
00 00 00 00
200 25 450 300
23 00
J o h n W. Neilson William F M a r c h
furnitiu-e,
300 00 150 00
100 00
Library
181 30
15 00
1,000 00
R. C. Burge
F . H. Wilson A. B . Burge. A. K. Wilson,
Albert K. Wilson
B u r r o u g h s Adding Macliine Co.. L i b r a r y furniture, binding, etc..
C a r y B . Fish, G r a n d M a s t e r F . & A. M. of Florida, C h a r i t y Fund.... P a u l Harrison, P r i n t i n g Annual P r o -
Albert K. Wilson
25 8 85 6 50 10 25
20 00
2 50 5 00
8 35 15 SO 2 34
5 30
1 25
3 2 1 13 12
40 45 00 60 80 50 66
90 85 00
1 00 20 95
2 00 40
,
55 03
64 54
158 84 76 67
S3 70
163 54
CD
Cn
to S^
>.
o >^ >!
&]
to
o
b
ft)
u 3
1
Secretary's
N a t i o n a l Geographic Society, Library
N o v . 15 362
N o v . 20 363 N o v . 20 364
Dec.
1 374
G r a h a m - S h i p - B y - T r u c k Co., Lilirary
City Water Works
B . C. Burgo
F . H . Wilson
C o u n t y Treasurer, Sliawnee C o u n t y ,
N o v . 15 361
365 366 367 368 360 370 371 372 373
C o u n t y Treasurer, Shawnee C o u n t y ,
20 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24
C o u n t y Treasurer, Shawnee C o u n t y ,
N o v . 15 358 N o v . 15 350 N o v . 15 360
Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov.
Albert K. Wilson N a t i o n a l Geographic Society, L i b r a r y
15 15 15 15
Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov.
Grand
H o m e r T . H a r d e n , L i b r a r y furniture.
F . L." Peacock,
In Favor of
354 355 356 357
6 353
Nov.
1026. N o v . 3 351 N o v . 6 352
Q
•S
Co
3
$
15 00
10 00
2,190 02
40 88
57 46
3 00
127 89
10 00
c c
S O
$
300 00 150 00 100 00
W3
'3
S
WARRANT ACCOUNT—Continued.
6 30
10 SO 1 76
15 00
K
e
to
$
K
Si
.11
«.
81
Si
$
C3>
2 00
0 00
100 00
7 15
42
12 25 21 05
§2.a
$
•
•
131 50
H ^
W .3
"^
o
(3
to o o
381 382 383 384 385 386 387 388 (G>389
0 390 <i 391 (i 392 (i 393 '.U) 394 395
Doc. Doc. Doc. Dec. Dec. Dec. Dec. Doc. Doc.
Doc. Doc. Dec. Doc. Doc. Doc.
C r a n e & Co., L i b r a r y furniture, bind-
Dec. 15 400
Dec. 22 401 Charlos N . Fowler, C h a i r m a n , Spl. Appr. Co. of Administration.... Doc. 22 402 Albert K. Wilson Doc. '22 403 Dec. 22 404 Dec. 22 405 Dec. 22 4()(i . . . . Doc. 2S 407 F . H . Wilson Dec. 2H 408 Dec. 23 409 R C Burge Dec. 28 410 Dec. 23 411
Albort K. Wilson, L i b r a r y furntiure.
Teachenor-Bartljorger E n g r a v i n g Co., L i b r a r y furniture, binding, etc.. C a p p e r E n g r a v i n g Co., G r a n d Offl-
T. G. Fitch, Secy.. C h a r i t y F u n d T. G. Fitch, Secy., M a s o n i c H o m e
A. R. .lackson K, C. Show Case W k s . Co., L i b r a r y furniture, Ijinding, etc.
Doc. l.'i 397 Doc. 15 3U8 Doc. 15 .399
Dec. 15 390
1 380
4 4 4 4 4 4 4
R. L. Polk & Co., L i b r a r y furniture.
1 378 1 370
Doc. Dec.
Dec.
C a p p e r E n g r a v i n g Co., G r a n d Offl-
1 375 1 370 1 377
Doc. Dec. Doc. '
500 00
25 00
2 75
17 SO
120 35
50 00
8 50
3,492 29
550 00
12 00
24 98
300 00 150 00 .125 00
40 43 89 80
42 28
42 00 13 11 5 00
2 50
11 10 5 1
2 50
11 87 50
86 25
30 00
100 00
2 40 21 95
5 49 40
64 80 1 60 2 85
80
0)
o b' o ta o
b
S)
J a n . 19 430
J a n , 17 434 J a n . 19 435
430 431 432 433
17 17 17 17
Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan.
Jan.
.Ian. .Ian. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan.
5
Is;
413 413 414 415 416 417 3 418 419 420 421 17 422 17 423 17 424 17 425 17 426 17 427 17 428 429 17
1027.
P
>-<
to
•a 3
John F . Strickrott Tliomas G. Fitch, Secy., Homo Fund T h o m a s G. F i t c h , Secy.,
Masonic
Masonic
C r a n e & C o m p a n y , L i b r a r y furniture.
R. C. Burgo K. R. Eboy, Historical Registry &
Albert K. Wilson Albert K. Wilson F . H . Wilson
Albert K. Wilson
In Favor of
S 4 75
5 35
41,082 50
v.)
3 o S
$
00 00 00 00 00 00 00
60 00
200 25 450 300 300 160 125
03
«0
O
«a o 3
S
WARRANT ACCOUNT—Concluded.
2 50
60
24 30
10 55
C
•S
e
S 12 70
7 40
ee .
S
3 34
ft,
I&.
e "
S
100 00 80 23 50
i (io
76 20
2 52
8 90
'"Hz s
•s a s
•a z
o
o
>,
o o is 0
Jan.
19 437
A m o u n t in excess of appropriation....
Amount appropriated by Grand Lodge or o t h e r legal authority.. A m o u n t a u t h o r i z e d b y Council of
T. G. F i t c h , Secy., T a x on W o r k , E n dowment Fund Masonic Homo 16,925 00
S
2.55 09 $
4,219' 12
70,683 81
441 00
12,000 00
1,000 00
$
211 46 i
1,200 00
394 73 i Va 21
800 00 GOO 00
S
280 96 $
2.500 00
103 24
1,500 00
S 80,647 84 S 11,559 00 $ 1 , 0 0 0 00 S 1,411 46 S1,194 73 S610 21 $ 2 , 2 1 3 04 $ 1 , 3 9 6 76
Co
to
o
o b
b
662
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
Februarj-,
PROCEEDINGS OF THE
M.-. W.-. GRAND LODGE A. F . & A. M. OF KANSAS.
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
UNVEILING OF T H E SMITH-VANDERSLICE MONUMENT.
HIGHLAND, KANSAS, June 7, A. L. 5926.
A Special Communication of the M.-. W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas, was held in Highland, Kansas, on Monday, June 7th, A. L. 5926, for the purpose of unveiling the monument erected by the Grand Lodge to the memory of our first Deputy Grand Master, R.-.W.-. JOHN W . SMITH, and our first Grand Junior Warden, R.-.W.-. DANIEL VANDEKSLICE. • GRAND OFFICERS PRESENT.
M.-.W.-. JOHN W . NEILSON Grand Master Concordia. W.-. JAY B . KIRK as Deputy Grand Master...Tola. R.-. W.-. FERRIS M . HILL Grand Senior Warden ....Emporia. R.-. W.-. GEORGE F . BEEZLEY Grand Junior Warden... Girard. Bro. FRANK P. BLAIR as Grand Treasurer Highland. R.-. W.-. ALBERT K . WILSON Grand Secretary Topeka. Bro. and Rev. FRED E . BROOKS Grand Chaplain Marysville. W.-. ALVA L . SWEARINGEN ....as Grand Senior Deacon ...Kansas City. W.-. EARL E . FAWCETT as Grand Junior Deacon ....Kansas City, Mo. Bro. ROY A. NOLL as Grand Marshal Highland. W.-. EDWARD C. BmCHFiELD.as Grand Sword Bearer Highland. R.-. W.-. PAUL M . MARTIN as Grand Senior Steward...Highland. W.-. ROBERT H . THOMAS as Grand Junior Steward....Highland. W.-. WILLIAM H . HARGIS Bearer of Bible Highland. W.-. JOHN F . WARD
Bro. W.-. Bro. W.-.
JOSEPH L . ALLEN BENJAMIN F . HEIS FRANCIS M . PEARL W. AMER BURNETT
Bearer of Constitutions..Highland.
as Grand Grand Grand Grand
Pursuivant Architect Orator Tyler
Highland. Leavenworth. Hiawatha. Oberlin.
Bro. JORDAN DALLAS BLEVINS....Assistant Grand Tyler....Highland.
1020-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
663
LODGES REPRESENTED.
Smithton Lodge No. 1, Highland. Arcana Lodge No. 31, Doniphan. Troy Lodge No. 55, Troy. Wathena Lodge No. 64, Wathena. White Cloud Lodge 78, White Cloud. Severance Lodge No. 313, Severance. . Bendena Lodge No. 440, Bendena. A constitutional number of lodges being represented, the M.". W.*. Grand Master opened the M.-. W.". Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons in Ample Form at 11:45 A. M., on the first degree of Masonry, in the Hall of Smithton Lodge No. 1, after an invocation of Divine blessing by the Grand Chaplain. The brethren then repaired to the auditorium of Highland College, where they were given full instructions by the M.'. W.". Grand Master, concerning the proper Honors to be given during the unveiling ceremonies. The Grand Secretary then informed the brethren that lunch would be served at once in the dining room of the College, and requested the brethren to reassemble in the auditorium immediately after the meal. On returning to the auditorium the Grand Marshal, Brother NOLL, gave full instructions concerning the formation of the procession, and likewise informed the older brethren that automobiles had been provided for them directly across the street from the College buildings, where they would go at once and be taken to the place of the unveiling. The procession was then formed in regular order and moved east on the main street two blocks from the Masonic Hall, and thence south about one mile to the Highland Cemetery. At the outer edge of town the Grand Officers were taken in automobiles to the cemetery in advance of the procession, and there awaited the brethren who on entering the cemetery, opened order in the usual way, and the Grand Officers then proceeded through the lines to the platform specially erected for this occasion. The exercises began promptly at the time appointed by the M.-. W.-. Grand Master—1:30 P. M. The day was ideal and one could not hope for more favorable conditions surrounding the entire ceremony. The brethren forming the several committees as indicated below, had carried out every instruction from the Grand Secretary, and there remained absolutely nothing to do in this particular after the Grand Officers and brethren reached Highland:
664
PROCEEDINGS
Executive Committee:
OF THE
February,
PAUL M . MARTIN.
Entertainment: JOSEPH L . ALLEN. Music: CHARLES C . W E B B .
Unveiling, Photographs and Refreshments: ROBERT H . THOMAS. Meeting Grand Officers: CHARLES I. SMITH. Grand Lodge Aprons and Property: WILLIAM M . BOONE. Official Souvenir Programs: PAUL H . GUTHRIE. Platform:
EDWARD C . BIRCHPIELD.
Marshal: ROY A. NOLL. Care Old Members: ALLEN L . MARTIN. Badges: JAMES S . TURRENTINE. Registry: JOHN L . H O W E .
Place of Meeting:
DONALD A. MCMULLEN.
This occasion, being held at the same time as the Commencement Exercises of Highland College (established in 1857), many of the older members and others interested were present. Among these distinguished visitors was Brother HOWARD I. VANDERSLICE, who received his degrees in Smithton Lodge No. 1 many years ago and is still a member. Brother VANDERSLICE is a grandson of DANIEL VANDERSLICE,
one of the brethren to whose memory the monument was erected. While Brother HOWARD I. VANDERSLICE is not a resident of Highland, yet he has lost none of his interest for the old mother lodge, and has its welfare a t heart, if possible, more than any resident member because three generations of his family first saw the "light" of Masonry in old Smithton Lodge. Immediately preceding the exercises the M.-.W.-. Grand Master made a few remarks pertinent to the occasion, emphasizing the wonderful history of the establishment of Smithton Lodge in the North-East Corner and paid special tribute to the distinguished brethren whose memory was being memoralized on this occasion. At the conclusion of the oration the Grand Secretary addressed the Grand Officers, other members and visitors, reciting his personal relations with the Craft in this jurisdiction for almost forty-five years, as well as his close association with Smithton Lodge No. 1. He called attention to the fact that with the exception of himself there were possibly only two others present who had the personal acquaintance of R.'. W.'. Brother DANIEL VANDERSLICE, and his son,
THOMAS J. VANDERSLICE, who was also, during his life, an honored member of Smithton Lodge, and whose remains now rest within a short distance of his distinguished father. He also stated that but one Brother present had the personal acquaintance of R.'. W.\ Brother JOHN W . SMITH, that being Brother EDWARD C . BIRCHFIELD, who assisted in the necessary preparations for this ceremony and likewise served as Grand Sword Bearer at this Communication. In referring to the lives of the two distinguished brethren whose resting place is now marked in enduring granite, he spoke of the
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
665
harships endured by those two patriarchs who established Masonry in the North-East Corner-when conditions made it necessary for them to go on foot or horse-back over pathless ground to meet with their brethren on a high hill, low dale, cave on the banks of the Missouri River, or in small dwellings, compelling the families to visit the neighbors during the Communications. Notwithstanding the hardships endured in the days of 1854 and 1855, these associations seemed a pleasure to Captain SMITH and Major VANDERSLICB, not because of any anticipated glory to be derived from their efforts, but because they were helping establish, in an almost undiscovered country, an organization founded upon truth. They well knew that the underlying principles of the Masonic fraternity were the very foundation stones of good citizenship and the establishment of a proper form of government. Their labors, therefore, were not in any manner mercenary or a wish for wordly honors, but were prompted only by a sincere desire tocarry forward the banner of Freemasonry. The following is the complete program, copies in pamphlet form being handed to the brethren as they left the cemetery:
--;
crbe
Monument erected b:y
~nost
OOlorsbipful
free
an~ accepte~
;--
of ancient, {tnasons of 1I\ansas
(l)ran~ lo~ge
to the memory
0/
R:.W :. JOHN W. SMITH, first Deputy Grand Master, and
R:.W:. DANIEL VANDERSLICE, first Grand Junior Warden. (The Inscription is a reproduction of that contained on the first monument, It being deemed best, from an historical point of view, to repeat the old Inscription.)
CEREMONY of
Unveiling the Monument Erected to the Memory of R.-. W.-. JOHN W. S M I T H , FIRST DEPUTY GRAND MASTER,
and R.-. W.-. D A N I E L VANDERSLICE, FIRST GRAND JUNIOR WARDEN,,
holh charier members of Smithton Lodge No. 1.
Conducted by the M/. W/. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M., of Kansas*, in the Cemetery at Highland, Kansas, June 7, 1926.
GRAND O F F I C E R S F O R 1926. M/.W/.JOHN W. NEILSON
Grand Master
Concordia.
R.\ W.'. CHARLES N , FOWLER
Deputy Grand Master ..Sa.\ma.
R.-. W.-. FERRIS M . HILL
Grand Senior Warden ..Emporia.
R.-. W.-. GEORGE F . BEEZLEY
Grand Junior H'arden..Girard.
R/. W.". WILLIAM FRANK MARCH ..Grand Treasurer
Lawrence.
R.\ W.-.ALBERT K . WILSON
Topeka.
Grand Secretary
Bro. and Rev. FRED E . BROOKS ....Grand Chaplain W . ' . J A Y B . KIRK
Marysville.
Grand Senior Deacon....lola.
W.-.CLICK FOCKELE
Grand Junior Deacon..Le Roy.
W.'.ALVA L . SWEARINGEN
Grand Marshal
Kansas City. Cottonwood Falls.
W.-. WILLIAM B . PENNY
Grand Sword Bearer
W.'. CLARENCE R . ATEN
Grand Senior Steward .."Dodge City.
W . ' . F R A N K D . SPERRY
Grand Junior
W.'. HOMER T . HARDEN
Grand Pursuivant
W.'.W. AMER BURNETT
....Grand Tyler
Steward..Ellsworth. Wichita. Oberlin.
^ I R S T O F F I C E R S S M I T H T O N LODGE, 1854. •JOHN W . SMITH
Master.
E. H. RINEHART
Senior Warden.
DANIEL VANDERSLICE
Junior
Warden.
W. P . RICHARDSON
Treasurer.
JOHN H . WHITEHEAD
Secretary.
JAMES H . MERRILL
Senior Deacon.
GRANDERSON R . WILSON
Junior Deacon.
JOSEPH CRIPPEN
Tyler.
R:. W:. JOHN W. SMITH, /:Irst Master of Smithton Lodge No. 140, Missouri charter, now No.1, Kansas_charter, and first D eputy Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Kansas.
R :. W : . D ANI EL VANDERSLICE, fir t Junior Warden of Smithton Lodge No. 140, Missouri ch ar ter, now No. I, Kansas charter, and first Grand Jun ior Warden of t he Grand L odge of Kansas.
Ea.t vlow of new monument.
Smith · Vanderslice Monument at'ccted jOintly by Smithton Lodge No and the Grand Lodge In 1878,
HISTORICAL. In 1878 the Grand Lodge and Smithton Lodge No. 1 erected a magnificent shaft as a memorial to the first Deputy Grand Master of the Grand Lodge and first Master of Smithton Lodge No. 1, R.-. W.-. Brother JOHN W. SMITH, and the first Grand Junior Warden of the Grand Lodge and first Junior Warden of Smithton Lodge No. 1, R.-. W.-. Brother DANIEL VANDERSLICE. This monument withstood the elements for almost a half century but during the past few years it was necessary to have certain repairs made. The elements, however, finally triumphed over the work of man and it was decided that the Grand Lodge should erect a lasting and durable monument to the memory of these distinguished brethren. This has been done and a magnificent granite monument is now ready to be unveiled in the presence of all who are privileged to attend this ceremony. In view of the importance of the ceremony of unveiling this monument it is highly important that mention be made of the lives of these two Masonic veterans and founders of Freemasonry in northeastern Kansas, as almost all who knew them personally have long since laid down the working tools of life. The story can best be told by quoting the following from the history of Smithton Lodge No. 1, prepared by your present Grand Secretary in 1905-1906, and which appears in the Semi-Centenniial Proceedings of the Grand Lodge:
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JOHN W. SMITH. For some years prior to his death Brother SMITH was engaged in business in Keokuk, Iowa, and devoted most of his time traveling through the several States selling goods. During these years he lost none of his interest, in old Smithton Lodge, or his love for his coworker in Masonry in the early days. Brother DANIEL VANDERSLICE. It seems that there was a mutual understanding between these venerable Masons that they should be laid side by side in their final resting place when called upon to render ah account of their stewardship here on earth. As evidence of this, the following extract is taken from a letter written to Brother VANDERSLICE on April 16, 1877, which seems to have been the last letter ever written by Brother SMITH to his old friend: "Since my last visit my mind is unsettled, like a ship at sea without a rudder, sensible of my condition that my sands are run and that I must hunt some place to lie down and die. For a number of times of late my mind has centered about the old mother lodge, and I desire to spend my last days there, and as I have been identified with your family for twenty-five years, to whom I feel an attachment above all others of my extended acquaintances, I desire to be buried as near your grave as might be consistent, a request I believe you granted several years ago. "Since I last saw you I have thought this matter over in my private meditations. You and I, Major, can't stay here much longer, so must go the way of all flesh, and go soon. My faculties are failing rapidly, and as I am the older I may go first, and should you go first, where is there left of Masons in that vicinity of our own kind people with whom I could enjoy myself? " I n my secret meditation alone, looking back at my past life of comfort and happiness, and now considering my present lonely condition, why should I exercise my
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mind about my temporal destiny here on earth, where I may go, where I may die, or where I shall be buried, since by GOD'S decree I have no kindred ties left to shed a tear for me. So then it matters not what disposition is made of this old corporeal frame of mine; it matters not where the'body is laid, even in a potter's field, so the spirit is redeemed through the merits of our Saviour. "If I should have enough to feed this old body of mine and bury it, it is all that I want, and to owe no man anything."
" I am tired of this traveling life, and am getting too old and feeble for a life of this kind, and have decided to settle down the few remaining days allotted me on this transitory stage. I think of coming back to my old home there to end my career in this lower tabernacle. * * * I may take a deep interest in the completion and decoration of the new hall, and should I be successful in collecting the debts due me, possibly I may appropriate as much as $1,000 in the enlargement of the hall by extending an addition, running on pillars to suspend it. * * * I have one special request to make, in which as a lodge all members are interested, and I'd like you to urge the necessity of Smithton Lodge No. 1 sending a delegate to the Grand Lodge—the: Master or some other shrewd and prudent officer—to guard and protect its identity."
"On the morning of December 18, 1877, an old man, walking with a cane in each hand, was seen nearing the Mississippi & Tennessee Railroad, at Memphis, Tenn. He was observed to falter, hesitate, and finally to lean against a fence near the sidewalk for support. A few moments more and he was seen to fall; a policeman near by went to assist him, and found that he was lifeless. A coroner's inquest was held and a verdict rendered that his
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disease was of the heart. Upon his breast, concealed, was a Knight Templar's emblem, a maltese cross, upon which was the words, 'in hoc signc ninces,' a wreath, cross and triangle; upon his person were found letters andpapers which indicated his name to be JOHN W . SMITH, and that he was • a Freemason. The facts were communicated to the Secretary of the Masonic Relief Board, who at once took charge of the body and had it packed in ice for preservation; dispatches were sent, and it was ascertained that he had not a living relative upon the face of the earth. It was also found that he was a member of Smithton Lodge No. 1, of Highland, Kansas. Word was sent to the officers of the lodge. It was their wish that he be brought home for burial, but at that time it seemed impossible, and he was buried in the masonic burial ground at Elmwood, near Memphis. The Master, Bro. F. M. NELSON, assisted by Bro. Rev. Dr. J. K. COLEMAN, of Brooklyn, N. Y., performed the ceremony at the grave. "Although he was buried with masonic honors, still his brothers of Smithton Lodge No. 1, and more especially Bro. D. VANDBRSLICE, greatly desired that his remains be brought and laid at rest near the lodge which he had instituted and over which he watched with more than parental care. "Word was sent to the officers of the Grand Lodge, and through their instrumentality the body was disinterred, placed in a metallic casket, and sent by express to Highland, where it arrived January 24, 1878, and the next day the remains were taken to M. E. Church, where a sermon was. delivered by Rev. S. F . NESBIT, after which the Master, assisted by Past Master R. M. WILLIAMS, of White Cloud Lodge, read the beautiful burial service at the grave. "Bro. SMITH was born in Rockingham County, Va., in 1791; was made a Mason in Virginia, in 1816; he moved from there to Missouri, and in 1853 he came to Kansas, since which time he has been the intimate friend of our venerable Bro. D. VANDBRSLICE, they both being Knight Templars.
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"Of Bro. SMITH'S early life little is known. He had a family, the last of whom was killed at the battle of Gettysburg, and while conveying the body from the battlefield he himself was wounded. It was his desire that at his death his body should be laid in the cemetery near Highland. " 'And when the hour of death shall come, And darkness seal my closing eye, May hands fraternal bear me home. The home where weary Masons lie.'
"His wish has been gratified, and now from the window in the East of the lodge room, may be seen the mound of earth which covers the remains of the founder of Smithton Lodge No. 1, JOHN W . SMITH.. "'There's a world where all are equal. We are hurrying to it fast; We shall meet upon the level there. When the gates of death are past, We shall stand before the Orient, And our Master will be there, To try the blocks we offer, By His own unerring square.'
" H e was born in Rockingham County, Virginia, in 1791, was married, had two sons and one daughter, all of whom are dead; none are left to mourn for him; he has been sixty-two years a Master Mason, and while such has traveled through all the States and Territories of the United States, the Canadas, and some parts of Europe, visiting masonic lodges, and wherever he went giving and receiving masonic information. Bro. SMITH was the founder of this (Smithton) lodge; his fostering care never relaxed, and he deemed it his imperative duty to expunge every appearance of evil."
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DANIEL VANDERSLICE. "R.: W.-. DANIEL VANDERSLICE, as the records of our Grand Lodge show, was one of the charter members of Smithton Lodge No. 1 and the first Grand Junior Warden. In the organization of the Grand Lodge he was an important factor, and his counsel aided much in the conservative legislation which placed our Grand Lodge upon a high plane where it has ever remained. Brother VANDBRSLICE, like Brother SMITH, was not only an enthusiastic Mason and a loyal supporter of Smithton Lodge at its inception,, but he continued so through the balance of his life, and when the awful summons came he was found faithfully performing his work in the quarries of Masonry. "Brother VANDERSLICE was born in Reading, Pennsylvania, February 10, 1799. His ancestors came from Holland. He removed to Scott County, Kentucky, about 1820, and was engaged as an apprentice to a manufacturer of paper. About 1825 he edited and published the Georgetown Gazette. After this he entered into mercantile business a t Georgetown, and subsequently engaged in the same business with his son, THOMAS J. VANDERSLICE, at Great Crossing, Kentucky. He was appointed an instructor in the Public Indian School at White Sulphur Springs, Kentucky, under RICHARD M . JOHNSON, and remained until the school was disbanded. He was then appointed Indian Agent to remove the Chickasaw Indians from Mississippi to the Indian Territory. This was done.in 1837. In 1853 he removed with his family to the Territory of Kansas, and was Indian Agent a t the Nemaha Agency, having in charge the Iowa, Sac, Fox and Kickapoo Indians. This agency was located near the northeast corner of Kansas, and near the old Presbyterian Mission, which is between the towns of Highland and Highland Station. Brother VANDERSLICE retired as Indian Agent in 1861 and removed to his farm near the old mission, where he lived until February
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5, 1889, when, at the summons of the Grand Master above, he was called from his labors here on earth to eternal refreshment in the abode prepared for the blessed. "Smithton Lodge No, 1, with the conventional funeral ceremony of the fraternity, laid him to rest beside the grave of Brother JOHN W . SMITH, whom he loved so well, and Mother Earth drew the curtain which forever hid from view all that remained of the true friend, the loving husband, the kind and devoted father, and the loyal Mason. "The Grand Lodge and Smithton Lodge N o . l has erected a bronze monument to the memory of these two pioneers of Masonry of. Kansas. While it marks their temporary resting place here on earth, yet the memory of these noble characters lives and flourishes as an example for us to follow in building our future moral and masonic life."
In view of the expressed wish that they might lie side by side in mother earth, and the further fact that their lives were so closely allied, it is only befitting that one monument should be erected for both, and as a token of the love and respect due the memory of these Masonic patriarchs for the services rendered to the Craft in its infancy, this monument, which you see here today and which we are here assembled to unveil, was erected to replace the one destroyed by the elements. ALBERT K . WILSON,
Grand Secretary.
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February,
UNVEILING M O N U M E N T . {Prior to beginning the ceremony, the Grand Master will here offer such remarks as he deems proper and necessary.) MUSIC. CEREMONIES. The M.*. W.". Grand Lodge being now assembled in Highland Cemetery, at the monument of our lamented Past Deputy Grand Master JOHN W . SMITH and Past Grand Junior Warden D A N I E L VANDERSLICE, the M.-.W.-. Grand Master said:. "Brother Grand Senior Warden, the Grand Lodge of the State of Kansas having been assembled at this place for the purpose of unveiling the monument erected by the Masons of Kansas to the memory of our deceased Past Deputy Grand Master JOHN W . SMITH, and Past Grand Junior Warden, D A N I E L VANDERSLICE, it is my order that the Grand Lodge of Kansas now proceed to the performance of that important ceremony. This, my will and pleasure, you will communicate to the Grand Junior Warden, that the Brethren of the Grand Lodge may have due notice thereof, and govern themselves accordingly." The Grand Senior Warden then said: "Brother Grand Junior Warden, it is the order of the M.\ W.'. Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Kansas, that this Grand Lodge do now proceed with the solemn and interesting ceremonies of unveiling the monument erected to the memory of our deceased Past Deputy Grand Master, JOHN W . SMITH, and Past Grand Junior Warden, DANIEL VANDERSLICE.
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"This you will report to the Brethren, that they, having due notice thereof, may govern themselves accordingly." The Grand Junior Warden then responded: "Brethren, take due notice thereof, and let it be accordingly so done." The Most Worshipful Grand Master then ordered the Grand Secretary to make the proclamation. The Grand Secretary responded: "Brethren, and all who are present, take notice that this is the order of the Most Worshipful Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Kansas, that he will now proceed to unveil the Monument erected to the memory of our late distinguished Past Deputy Grand Master and Past Grand Junior Warden of the Grand Lodge of Kansas. You will conduct yourselves in harmony with the solemnity of the hour." (Twice repeated.) The R.-. W.-. Grand Chaplain of the Grand Lodge of Kansas, offered the following prayer: PRAYER.
Almighty and Eternal GOD, our Creator, our Preserver, and our Light; we ask Thy blessing upon us and on the work which has called us together for a time in this body-home of the dead.- Thou hast given us our life, with blessings and mercies without number, and hast done all things needful to make our sojourn here pleasant in giving glory to Thee, our Father, and in doing good to man, our Brother. And Thou has given us Thy word to be a light to our path in life, that we may see Thy will and our way in the use of our blessings; and hast clearly told us that Thou, the Eternal Spirit, hast made man the
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Februray,
visible receiver of so much of that service which we justly owe Thee, and which we can fully pay only in a life of humble faith in Thee, as our Father, and of love to man, as our second self. For these great blessings we magnify Thy glorious name, and that abounding grace which has ever been ours,, when truly sought, in the time of need. And we thank Thee, 0 Heavenly Father, that Thou, who art the source of all good, didst put into the hearts of Thy people to bear good will to man, and, through man, to honor Thee, and not only to work, man by man, for their fellows, but to unite together in a covenant— even the Masonic covenant—that they might do more good, and do it better than by personal labor alone. We thank Thee that Thou hast blessed the Institution of Freemasonry so abundantly, in giving her so many who have bound themselves together, as a society, to be a friendly aid to each other, and hast raised up individuals who, in the life of Thy holy religion, have been lights in the world, and, in the practice of our rites and rules, have been true exponents of our principles, and, by their example, have shown us that the way to honor is open to all who put their trust in Thee, and who, by gaining knowledge, by action and faithful labor, and by a strict adherence to the tenets of our Masonic profession, make themselves worthy. And we thank Thee that Thou hast put it in the heart of the Masonic Fraternity of this Jurisdiction to raise this cenotaph to the memory of our worthy Brethren, that, while their virtues may be on perpetual record, all of us may be encouraged to walk in that path of life which Thou hast marked out as the way to honor with Thee and with man; so that, when our labors on earth are done and our past life is as a unit, examined by man, we may be found worthy to be held in honor as servants who have-well done, and as truly live in the memory and the hearts of those we leave behind, as does our late Past Deputy Grand Master and Past Grand Junior Warden, to whom, in testimony of our love and esteem, we, as the Grand Lodge of Masons, have raised this cenotaph.
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Grant, Heavenly Father, that our hearts may be solemnized by the occasion which has brought us into this receptacle of the dead, and that we be caused to remember our own mortality and our accountability to Thee for our use of our life and its blessings, and the uncertainty of the hour when we shall be called into Thy presence to answer for the deeds done in the body, and to be eternally rewarded or punished, according as they have been good or evil. May we all look to Thee more and more, as children to their fathers. May we be more holy and. devoted to Thy service. May we be more faithful in the fulfillment of our plighted vows to Thee, to live for Thy glory and for man's happiness; and to our Lodge, in labor and prayer for our Brethren, and in sustaining and cherishing, or reminding and aiding and warning him, that he may walk worthy of his full vocation. May our whole Society live and love as Brethren. May we daily be doing more good to man, and, through that good, be daily honoring Thee more and more. May Thy blessings rest on the Grand Lodge and on all of its Subordinates. And may we, as a Society, daily draw nearer to Thee in purity, in faith, and in love. And wilt Thou, 0 Merciful Father, give us grace, while in this place, surrounded by the monuments to the dead, to feel the importance of a holy life and of preparation for our death, and to vow to redeem our misspent time. Give us wisdom to erect our moral edifice in accordance with the designs drawn upon Thy trestle board. Give us strength to do our duty, and to walk uprightly in our several stations in life, before Thee and before man. And when our work on earth shall be finished, and Thou shalt bid Thy Recorder to summon us to Thy presence, and Thy Tyler shall draw near; when the Mallet of death shall be ready to fall on us, that we may be borne away to the sepulchre of our fathers, may we be enabled to look back upon lives of holiness and love in Thy service and of faithfulness to all plighted vows; and in the full assurance in the merits of Him whom Thou hast promised should bruise the serpent's head, may we
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-
February,
be taken to Thy presence in that house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. Our Father who art in Heaven, hallowed by Thy name. Thy Kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. Lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever.—AMEN. SO mote it he.— Amen. MUSIC—FUNERAL D I R G E . (During the singing the monument was unveiled.) The Most Worshipful Grand Master then said: "Brethren assist me in giving the Grand Honors." The. Brethren repeat with the Grand Master the following words, accompanied by the Grand Honors: "Their spirits to GOD; their memory in our hearts; their bodies to the earth." After which the Most Worshipful Grand Master said: "Brother Grand Architect, have you faithfully completed the work entrusted to your care by the Grand Lodge of Kansas?" The Grand Architect replied: " I have. Most Worshipful Grand Master, and it is with heartfelt pride and gratification that I now return through you to the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Kansas the implements of architecture, with which it was your pleasure to invest me, and now having com-pleted the work, it gives me pleasure to say, if we have
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used them to your satisfaction, and the work is approved, we, and those whom you associated with us, will have earned a reward which no time can efface, and which is only commensurate with the great love and veneration we bear to the sainted dead, to whose memory we have humbly endeavored to erect this shaft to your satisfaction." Then said the Most Worshipful Grand Master: " I receive with proud gratification the implements of architecture with which you were invested, and with which you have accomplished a work in a measure so satisfactory and pleasing to the Grand Lodge of Kansas, and I will now proceed, with the aid of my officers, t a test the same." MUSIC. The Grand Master (after having given the Square to the Deputy Grand Master, and the Level to the Grand Senior Warden, and the Plumb to the Grand Junior Warden) said: "Right Worshipful Deputy Grand Master, what is the Jewel of your office?" The Deputy Grand Master replied: " T h e Square, Most Worshipful Grand Master." Then said the Most Worshipful Grand Master: " I t is my order that you descend and apply the Square to those parts of the monument that should be square, and report to me." The Deputy Grand Master replied: " I have applied the Square, Most Worshipful Grand Master, and it affords me pleasure to say that the Craftsmen have well done their duty."
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The Most Worshipful Grand Master then said: "Brother Grand Senior Warden, what is the proper Jewel of your office?" The Grand Senior Warden replied: " T h e Level, Most Worshipful Grand Master." The Most Worshipful Grand Master then said: " I t is my order that you descend and apply the Level to those parts of the monument which should be level,, and report to me." The Grand Senior Warden replied: " I have applied the Level, Most Worshipful Grand Master, to those parts of the monument which should . be level, and the Craftsmen have done their duty." The Most Worshipful Grand Master then said: "Brother Grand Junior Warden, what is the proper Jewel of your office?" The Grand Junior Warden replied: " T h e Plumb, Most Worshipful Grand Master." The Most Worshipful Grand Master then said: " It is my order that you descend and apply the Plumb to the several edges of the shaft and report to me." The Grand Junior Warden replied: " M o s t Worshipful Grand Master, I have appUed the Plumb to the several edges of the shaft, and find that the Craftsmen have done their duty."
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The Most Worshipful Grand Master then said: "Brother Grand Architect, having full confidence in your skill in the Royal Art, it remains with me now t o finish the work." The Grand Master then descended to the monument, and with the Gavel struck it three times, and said: "This is true work—Square work—just such work as was ordered for the Masons of Kansas, and in the name of the Institution of Ancient, Free and Accepted M a sonry, and by the authority of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Kansas, I now solemnly dedicate t h e Cenotaph to the memory of R.-.'W/. JOHN W . SMITH, our Past Deputy Grand Master and R.-. W/. D A N I E L VANDERSLICE, our Past Grand Junior Warden. Brethren,, you will salute it accordingly." MUSIC. ORATION. W.'. Brother FRANCIS M . PEARL, Past Master Hiawatha Lodge No. 35, delivered the following address: Most Worshipful Grand Master and Brethren—Ladies and Gentlemen: We are assembled today in Special Communication to pay final and lasting tribute to the memory of two of our venerable craftsmen who have been felled by the ruthless setting maul of death and called to the reward which is promised by the Grand Master of the Universe to those who by purity of life and rectitude of conduct inherit thoseheavenly mansions prepared for His faithful servants from the foundation of the world. Today we unveil the cold and inanimate granite that is to m a r k and guard the last resting place of the mortal remains of the venerable JOHN W . SMITH and DANIEL VANDERSLICE, who have fought
the
good fight, who have run their course and who kept the faith. Here among the unnumbered dead lie the remains of the first Worshipful Master of Smithton Lodge No. 1, and the first Deputy Grand Master of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free a n d
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Accepted Masons of Kansas, and the first Junior Warden of Smithton Lodge No. 1, and the first Grand Junior Warden of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Kansas. In congregating here to pay our just and lasting tribute to these distinguished craftsmen we exemplify what every Mason has been taught in his travels toward the East: that is, that the internal and not the external qualifications of a man is what Masonry regards; here in the midst of a peace which passeth all understanding the Fraternity of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons have reared an enduring monument to commemorate the virtues, the labors and the life of those hardy pioneers whose attentive ear received the sound from the instructive tongue and whose faithful breasts treasured the mysteries of Masonry and transmitted unimpaired to generations then unborn the excellent tentes of our institution. The thought that I would imprint on the memory of you who honor us with your presence is that the thing we are doing today to perpetuate the remembrance of these pioneers in the Masonic Vineyard is a tribute that the wealth of the world'cannot purchase. Has it ever occurred to you that the things of this world that are worth while are unpurchasable when measured in the terms of dollars and cents? The sweet and charming things, the polished intellect, the cultured mind, the graces that adorn and ennoble a life are placed so high on the ladder of fame as to be beyond the reach of everything except service. Measured by the ordinary standards these venerable craftsmen possess little of the goods of this world, but in the realm of service they were millionaires. They were diffusing Masonic Light to the uninformed years before most of us here today were born and in generations yet to come the true craftsman will make his pilgrimage to this shrine of Masonry to pay his tribute of respect to the memory of the pioneers of our fraternity who by the use of the tools and im:plements of architecture were able to print on the memory wise and :serious truths which became the rule and guide to their conduct in all ^future transactions with mankind. In my quest of information concerning these hardy pi9neers, I -was told that but little is known of the early life of JOHN W . SMITH. . In a letter to his friend and brother whose memory we honor today he vouchsafed the information that he had buried a wife and two sons : and that when the Grim Reaper cut the brittle thread of life and Uaunched his immortal soul into eternity, he would be the last of his :generation; that there was not on earth to mourn his departure one rsoul related to him by kindred ties. Do you wonder then that he "expressed the hope that when at last the working tools of life should iall from his trembling grasp and he should stand before the great white throne trembling and alone to answer to the King of Kings for the deeds done in the flesh that "his corporeal frame might be laid to rest as near that of his friend and co-worker as was consistent" and that these two worthies should return to their parent dust and
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OF KANSAS.
685
sleep the sleep that knows no waking amid the scenes of their fraternal labors! Of Brother VANDEESLICE we are not wanting in information. He was U. S. Indian agent in .charge of the Great Nemaha Agency in the Northwest part of Doniphan County and had seen many years of service in the Indian department. It is passing strange that these venerable craftsmen should have come to the Territory in the same year. 1853, VANDERSLICE from Kentucky, SMITH from Virginia. Brother SMITH had passed the meridian of life and was in his sixty-third year while Brother VANDERSLICE was in his fifty-fourth, and what a fortunate thing it is that the cradle of Kansas Masonry was rocked by the hand and directed by the hearts of men of mature age and sound and conservative judgment. In the annals of the Grand Lodge mention is made of the fact that Brother VANDERSLICE by his sound and conservative judgment wielded a great influence in framing legislation for the government of the Craft. At the first meeting called for the purpose of organizing the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Kansas, there were but two lodges responded. Smithton No. 1, represented by Brother SMITH as Worshipful Master, and Brother VANDERSLICE as Junior Warden, who also held the proxy for the Senior Warden. The other chartered lodges were Leavenworth and Wyandotte, and as Wyandotte did not respond to the call for the convention to organize a Grand Lodge the matter went over to the. following year, but in 1856, and on the 17th day of March, another convention was held at Leavenworth and the record shows that JOHN W . SMITH offered, arid the convention adopted the following resolution: "RESOLVED, That the action of a convention held at this place on the 27th day of December last, for the organization of a Grand Lodge, be approved by this convention, and that as some doubts have been entertained as to the entire regularity of the proceedings of that convention, on account of there not being a full delegation in attendance from all the chartered Lodges in the territory, we now proceed to organize a Grand Lodge of Kansas, and that the Grand Master-elect at that convention proceed now to open a Grand Lodge." Following the passage of the foregoing resolution it was resolved that the charters take numbers in the order in which their present charters are numbered by the Grand Lodge of Missouri and that motion was made by Brother VANDERSLICE and thus was preserved to Northeast Kansas, the distinction of being the cradle of Masonry in the stirring days of 1854, 1855, 1856; and Smithton Lodge No. 1 preserved her identity as the pioneer lodge of this Grand Jurisdiction. There is one thought on which I desire to focus your minds today and to me it is a very important one. In the commercialism of the present day, ideals seem to be lost sight of and the mad race for material things seems to have captured the center of the stage. So far as I have been able to observe no free people have ever as yet builded a monument or erected a statue to the GoD of MAMMON. I
686
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
have a lawyer friend who had occasion to go to Washington to attend a session of the Supreme Court of the United States. He took his sixteen year old son with him feeling that from an educational standpoint the trip would be worth while. After getting located at their hotel and on the morning of the day the father was to appear before the Supreme Court, he said to his son, "Which would you prefer to do, go with me to the Supreme Court or spend the day touring the City looking for the monuments erected to the memory of the wealthiest men of our country?" The boy said he believed he'd take a tour of the city in search of the monuments and thus spend the day. When they met at the hotel for their evening meal the father asked his son what he had found and who were the wealthy men in whose memory the people had built monuments and erected statues and the boy answered and told of his day's journey and named a number of monuments and statues he had inspected and said, " b u t father in every instance, I made inquiry as to the wealth of the man whose monument I was admiring and they told me the man concerning whose monument I inquired was not a rich man at all but that measured in dollars and cents the man whose memory was so honored was a poor man and that the monument had been erected to his memory in recognition of the services he had rendered to his fellow creatures." Let us take a survey of our immediate neighborhood if you please and ask whose memory we find most revered? Is it the man with the largest accumulation of wordly goods, or is it the man or woman who have rendered the greatest service to the community in which they lived. I venture to answer my own question by saying that the memory of men and women who have passed on is revered and perpetuated on account of the service they have rendered to the community. Look back over the history of our country and I ask whose forehead is it that is kissed by the sun and whose shoulders are above the clouds and I venture the assertion that it is the forehead and shoulders of the men and women who have rendered the greatest service to the Nation, the State and the Community in which they live. No, my friends, a people cannot be bribed, fame never rests its wings by placing its feet on the dollar mark; to be great is to be good, and to be good one must be serviceable, and he who would perpetuate his name to posterity must embalm in acts of charity and deeds of pure beneficence. We have taken time off today and journeyed hither to draw aside the curtain and unveil this monument erected to the memory of these venerated brethren who by their labor and their sacrifices transmitted unimpaired the ancient landmarks of this honorable Institution. Our brethren builded better than they knew. It is recorded that at the institution of the three lodges which formed the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Kansas, the combined membership of the three was twentyseven, and now the roster contains a membership of 80,174.
1920-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
687
One cannot appreciate the services rendered the craft by these venerated brethren unless one turns the hands on the dial of time back to the years of 1854 and 1855. We had no transportation facilities then neither had we any public roads nor means of communication and very few buildings. The first communication of the lodge was held on a high hill in the southeast part of the county overlooking the Missouri River near what is now called Bellemont. A burr oak stump served as an Altar and the Tyler armed with the proper implement of his office and mounted on horse-back warned of the approach of cowans and eavesdroppers. Other communications were held in dug outs and at the homes of the brethren and when you consider that settlements were few and far between and most settlers had but a one-room house and the inmates of the family had to be taken to the neighbors and remain until lodge was closed, and that some of the brethren had to travel as many as twenty-five miles to attend meetings, you can better appreciate the services rendered the Fraternity by these devoted craftsmen. Delegates to the Grand Lodge which convened at Leavenworth were as much as a week making the trip and it was necessary to delay the opening of the Grand Lodge until a quorum arrived and no one knew when that would be, since there were no means of communication such as we now enjoy. Such, brethren, are the circumstances under which these venerable craftsmen performed their labor, and we honor ourselves and our Fraternity by our presence here today to unveil this beautiful monument and perpetuate for all time the remembrance of such characters. If it is given to the souls of just men made perfect to look down from their heavenly mansions and know what is transpiring here on this terrestrial sphere, we can imagine the satisfaction with which our departed friends view the ceremonies in which we are here engaged. It is passing strange that we reserve the flowers for the funeral and the words, "Well done thou good and faithful servant" until the eye can no longer behold the beautiful things we place on the bier nor the ear receive the sound of the encomiums that are pronounced over the body that once housed an immortal soul. The men in whose honor we are here today did not know, nor little did they think they were doing anything out of the ordinary. They were just plain Masons who went about their daily avocations doing the things their hands found to do with no thought that they were perpetuating themselves in the annals of Masonry and that in due time their virtues and their services would be perpetuated in enduring granite. Nothing that we here today do or say can add to the fame or the glory of these men. Their accounts were closed and the record made up when their immortal souls winged their flight to the Grand Lodge above. Time has only emphasized the value of their services to the Fraternity and added to the magnitude of their labors and now after
688
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
more than three score and ten years their lives and their labors, like the path of the just lighteth more and more unto the perfect day.
Benediction by the Grand Chaplain.
At the conclusion of the ceremony the Grand Lodge returned to the Masonic Hall where it was closed in Ample Form. JOHN W . NEILSON,
Grand Master, Attest: ALBERT K . WILSON,
Grand Secretary.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
689
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
ATWOOD, KANSAS, March 17, 1926.
Upon request of Atwood Lodge No. 164, of Atwood, Kansas, the M.'.W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Conimunication in the Hall of Atwood Lodge No. 164, at Atwood, Kansas, on March 17,1926, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new Masonic Temple, now under course of construction in the City of Atwood, Kansas. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: M.'.W.-. W.'. Bro. Bro.
JOHN W . NEILSON PAUL BROWN CHARLES FOSTER JOHN T . BEARLEY
W.'. ELMER S . MULLEN Bro. SILAS R . HORTON
Grand Master. as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden. as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary.
Bro. and Rev. JAMES H . STRAYER..as Grand Chaplain. Bro. JAKE J. MILLER
Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. M.'.W.'.
CLINTON H . PATTON WILLIAM L . BEARLEY BUEL W . RICHARDS : PRESTON BAYLOR ELMER F . STRAIN
as Grand Marshal.
as as as as as
Grand Grand Grand Grand Grand
Senior Deacon. Junior Deacon. Senior Steward. Junior Steward. Orator.
W.'. WILLIAM CORRELL
as.Grand Pursuivant.
W.-. WILLIAM R . BEARLEY W.'. JONATHAN T . SHORT..... W.'. P. P. INNES
as Bearer of Great Lights. as Bearer of Book of Constitution. as Grand Sword Bearer.
Bro. WILLIAM HAYNES W.'. CHARLES H . BROWN
as Principal Architect. as Grand Tyler.
The Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. The Grand Lodge then repaired to the public street and marched to the site of the new Temple, where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity, in the presence of a large assemblage of the Craft and a large number of citizens of Atwood, Kansas, and surrounding cities. M.'.W.'. ELMER F. STRAIN, Grand Orator for the occasion, delivered an impressive and instructive address. Music was rendered by the Atwood Junior Band, the choir of the Atwood M. E. Church and a male quartette.
690
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
The Grand Lodge then returned to the Masonic Hall and was closed in Ample Form on the fijst degree of Masonry. JOHN W . NEILSON,
Attest:
Grand Master. SILAS R . HORTON,
as Grand Secretary.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
691
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
LEOTI, KANSAS, April 17,
1926.
At the request of Leoti Lodge No. 340, Leoti, Kansas, the M.\W.\ •Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the Masonic Hall at Leoti,. Kansas, oh the 17th day of April, A. D. 1926, A. L. 5926, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new Wichita County Community High School Building. The M.'.W.'. Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry, with the following officers: M.\W.'. W.-. Bro. Bro.
CHARLES A. LOUCKS WILLIAM C . DICKEY WILLIAM R . GORSUCH LLOYD MATHES
as as as as
Grand Master. Deputy Grand Master. Grand Senior Warden. Grand Junior Warden.
W.". ALBERT J. GREEN Bro. H. RAYMOND GREEN Bro. MARCELLUS A. GIBBS
as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary. as Grand Chaplain.
Bro. A. M. VANCE W.-. DALE F . CARTER Bro. GALEN A. ROBISON
as Grand Orator. as Grand Senior Deacon. • as Grand Junior Deacon.
Bro. CLARENCE H . SIMON
Bro. Bro. W.-. W.\ W.-.
SAMUEL F . ASKEY MERRILL V. MOORE ARTHUR L . WALK HARRY L . GORSUCH W M . D . J. WHITCHURCH
W.-. MUREL S. MUSSER
as Grand Marshal.
as Grand Senior Steward. as Grand Junior Steward. as Bearer of the Great Lights. as Bearer of Book of Constitution. ..as Grand Sword Bearer. as Grand Tyler.
The Grand Lodge then repaired to the public street, formed in Grand Procession and marched to the site of the new Wichita County Community High School Building, where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity, followed by a splendid address given by- Brother A. M. VANCE of the Hays State Teacher's College, Hays, Kansas. The Grand Lodge then marched to the Masonic Hall where remarks were made by Brothers H. L. GORSUCH, W . M . GLENN, A. M. VANCE, W . B . WASHINGTON and Past Grand Master CHARLES A.
692
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
LouCKS, after which the M / . W / . Grand Lodge was closed in Ample Form on the fi.rst degree of Masonry. CHARLES A. LOUCKS,
Attest:
as Grand Master. H. RAYMOND GREEN,
as Grand Secretary.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
693
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
OBERLIN, KANSAS, April 28, 1926.
Upon request of Mountain Slope Lodge No. 186, of Oberlin, Kansas, the M.'.W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the lodge room at Oberlin, Kansas, on the 28th day of April, A. D. 1926, A. L. 5926, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new County Court House. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: M.'.W.'. W.". W.*. Bro.
JOHN W . NEILSON HERMAN G . GRAGERT FOREST G . REDMAN HERMAN H . CLAUSEN
Grand Master. as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden.
W.'. HENRY L . MURPHY Bro. RALPH MCLAUGHLIN Bro. ROBERT A. ANDERSON
as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary. as Grand Chaplain.
Bro. L. A. KIPPLINGER W.\ HOMER A. MURLIN Bro. LoYD E. VERNON
as Grand Orator. as Grand Senior Deacon. as Grand Junior Deacon.
Bro, WILLIE L E R O Y HAYS
as Grand Senior Steward.
Bro. GUY C . ALLEN
as Grand Junior Steward.
W.\ W. AMER BURNETT
Grand Tyler.
The Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. The Grand Lodge then marched to the site of the new County Court House where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of tlhe Fraternity. The address was deivered by Brother L. A. KIPPLINGER. The Grand Lodge then returned to the lodge room and was closed in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. JOHN W . NEILSON,
Attest:
Grand Master. RALPH MCLAUGHLIN,
as Grand Secretary.
694
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
NoRCATUR, KANSAS, April 29,1926. Upon request of Norcatur Lodge No. 317, of Norcatur, Kansas, the M.'.W.*. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the lodge room at Norcatur, Kansas, on the 29th day of April, A. D. 1926, A. L. 5926, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new Rural High School Number Four Building. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: M.'.W.-. W.*. W.". Bro.
JOHN W . NEILSON JACOB R . BETTS GEORGE M . CLELAND WILLIAM H . AREHAET
Grand Master. as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden.
Bro. JESSE W . POOL Bro. FRANK B . NELSON Bro. OSCAR G . BROWN
as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary. as Grand Chaplain.
Bro. CHARLIE C. CLELAND Bro. PATRICK J. MELLON
as Grand Senior Deacon. as Grand Junior Deacon.
Bro. WILLIAM L . HAYES
as Grand Marshal.
Bro. MEETON E . IRVIN Bro. SAMUEL H . JONES
as Grand Senior Steward. as Grand Junior Steward.
W.-. W. AMER BURNETT Bro. EDGAR B . ALLBAUGH
Grand Tyler. as Grand Orator.
The Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. The Grand Lodge then marched to the site of the new Rural High School where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity in the presence of many of the brethren and a large concourse of citizens. The addresses were delivered by Brother EDGAR B . ALLBAUGH on behalf of the Masonic Fraternity, and Mr. HARRY R . ANDERSON representing the Board of Education. The Grand Lodge then returned to the lodge room and was closed in. Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. JOHN W . NEILSON,
Attest:
Grand Master. FRANK B . NELSON,
as Grand Secretary.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
•
695
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
BROOKVILLE, KANSAS, May
10,
1926.
By request of Brookville Lodge No. 209, of Brookville, Kansas, the M.'.W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas, was convened in Special Communication in the lodge room at Brookville, Kansas, on the 10th day of May, A. D. 1926, A. L. 5926, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new Rural High School Building. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: M.'.W.'. JOHN W . NEILSON R.'. W.'. CHARLES N . FOWLER Bro. WILLIAM G . HINES Bro. PHILIP C . LINDQUIST
Grand Master. Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden.
W.'. CARL A. JOHNSON Bro. ALBERT E . HALSBY Bro. JOHN W . BATES
as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary. as Grand Chaplain.
Bro. ERNEST W . LINDQUIST Bro. CLYDE L . HARRIS
as Grand Senior Deacon. as Grand Junior Deacon.
W.'. ALBERT O. CASZEWSKI
as Grand Marshal.
Bro. STANLEY W . LEWIS Bro. ALBERT Q. PLUMMER
as Grand Senior Steward. as Grand Junior Steward.
Bro. EDWIN S. ROOT, J R
as Grand Tyler.
Bro. P. C. SoMERViLLE
as Grand Orator.
The Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. A procession was then formed and the officers and brethren present marched to the site of the new Rural High School Building where the corner-stone of that building was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity. After an interesting address by Bro. P. C. SOMERVILLE the Grand Lodge again formed in procession and returned to the Masonic Hall, and was closed in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. JOHN W . NEILSON,
Attest:
Grand Master. ALBERT E . HALSEY,
as Grand Secretary.
GRAND SEC RETARY 'S PRIVATE OFFICE.
696
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
KANSAS CITY, KANSAS, August 9, 1926.
By request of the County Commissioners of Wyandotte County, and the Masonic Lodges of Wyandotte County, Kansas, the M.'. W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in the Scottish Rite Temple, in Kansas City, Kansas, on August 9, 1926, at 3:00 P. M., for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new Wyandotte County Court House. The M.'.W.'. Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry, with the following officers: M.'.W.'. R.'. W.'. W.'. W.'.
JOHN W . NEILSON....:...; CHARLES N . FOWLER D. CLARKE KELLY FRED WORKENTINE
W.'. CHARLES W. JOHNSON W.'. GLEN L . COWGER Rev. and Bro. CHARLES A. PINCH
W.'. CLARE O . L. DUNBAR W.'. EVERETT DILLON W.'. ALVA L . SWEARINGEN
Grand Master. Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden. as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary. as Grand Chaplain.
as Grand Senior Deacon. as Grand Junior Deacon. ...Grand Marshal.
W.'. GEORGE STURHAHN W.'. WELBY R . BUIE W.'. CHARLES H . HANCE
as Grand Sword Bearer. as Grand Senior Steward. as Grand Junior Steward.
W.'. JOHN L . WOOD W.'. W. AMER BURNETT
as Grand Pursuivant. Grand Tyler.
W.'. RILEY WILLIAMSON W.'. D E A N DAVIS
1 |
W.'. GEORGE W . HULL
} Bearers of Columns.
W.'. JOSEPH J. STOTLER Bro. HENRY WOESTBRMYER
| J
W.'. R. A. DROWN
1 g^^^^^^ ^^ ^^^ ^^^^^^
W.'. WILLIAM H . W E N T E
W.'. ALBERT C. COOKE
Bearer of Great Lights.
W.'. THOMAS B . W E B B
Bearer of the Constitution.
The Grand Lodge then repaired to the site of the new Court House where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity, after which the Grand Lodge returned to the Scottish Rite Temple and was closed in Ample Form. JOHN W . NEILSON,
Attest:
Grand Master. GLEN L . COWGER,
as Grand Secretary.
1920-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
69T
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
TowANDA, KANSAS, August 16, 1926. Upon request of Towanda Lodge No. 30, Towanda, Kansas, theM.'. W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas, was convened in Special Communication in the Masonic Hall at Towanda, Kansas, on the 16th day of August, A. D. 1926, A. L. 5926, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new Methodist: Church. The several stations and places were filled by the following brethren: M.-.W.'. M.-.W.-. Bro. Bro.
JOHN W . NEILSON THOMAS G . FITCH FRED BENTLEY HERMAN L . MONTEI
Grand Master. as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden.
Bro. NAPOLEON L . REED
as Grand Secretary.
W.\ JOEL E . DAVIS W.-. PETER POORBAUGH
as Grand Senior Deacon. as Grand Junior Deacon.
W.'. GLEN CHAMBERLAIN
as Grand Marshal.
W.'. ANDREW J. RALSTON Bro. CHESLBY N . HAWK
as Grand Senior Steward. as Grand Junior Steward.
Bro. and Rev. FRED W . CONDIT
as Grand Orator.
W.-. EUGENE S. TOLCOTT
as Bearer of the Great Lights.
W.-. HOMER T . HARDEN W.-. WILLIAM R . GREEN
Grand Pursuivant. as Grand Tyler.
The Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry, and marched to site of the new Methodist Church, where the corner-stone of that building was laid according to the rules of our Ancient Craft, in the presence of a number of visiting brethren and a large concourse of citizens. The address was delivered.by Bro. and Rev. FRED W . CONDIT.
The Grand Lodge then returned to the Masonic Hall, and was closed in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. JOHN W . NEILSON,
Attest:
Grand Master. NAPOLEON L . R E E D ,
as Grand Secretary,
698
PROCEEDINGS
SPECIAL
OF THE
February,
COMMUNICATION.
N E S S CITY, KANSAS, August 17,
1926.
Upon request of Walnut Valley Lodge No. 191, A. F. & A. M., of Ness City, Kansas, the M.'. W.\ Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the lodge room at Ness City, Kansas, on the 17th day of August, A. D. 1926, A. L. 5926, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new High School Building at Bazine, Kansas. The several stations and places were filled by the following brethren: W.'. EARL B . HOPPER
as Grand Master.
W.". EDWIN M . FISHEE as Deputy Grand Master. Bro. MARCUS T . TALLY as Grand Senior Warden. Bro. ANDREW F . ScHOEPPEL..as Grand Junior Warden. Bro. OLIVER L . LENNEN Bro. HAYES FLOYD
Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro.
as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary.
EDWARD L . BRANDNER..as Grand Chaplain. HENRY W . JOHNSON as Grand Senior Deacon. TURNER A. KACKLBY as Grand Junior Deacon. JOHN C . HOLLENBECK....as Grand Marshal. WARREN L . FERGUSON ..as Grand Senior Steward. LORIN B . FERRELL as Grand Junior Steward. H. F . WHITTEN Principal Architect. STEPHEN A. WHITLEY Bearer of the Book of Constitutions. WILLIAM R . PHILLIPS ....as Grand Tyler.
The Grand Lodge was opened in Form on the first degree of Masonry, and marched to the site of the new High School Building •where the corner-stone of that building was laid according to the rules of our Ancient Craft, in the presence of thirty-two brethren and a large concourse of citizens. The address was delivered by OLIVER L . LENNEN.
The Grand Lodge then returned to the lodge room and was closed in Form on the first degree of Masonry. EARL B . HOPPER,
Attest:
as Grand Master. HAYES FLOYD,
as Grand Secretary.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE OF KANSAS.
69*
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
ATWOOD, KANSAS, September 20, 1926.
Upon request of Atwood Lodge No. 164, of Atwood, Kansas, theM.\W.-. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened' in Special Communication in that city on t h e 20th day of September, 1926, for the purpose of dedicating the new Masonic Temple. . The several stations and places were filled by the following brethren: M.-.W.-. W.-. Bro. Bro.
JOHN W . NEILSON C. M. CROSBY CHARLES FOSTER JOHN T . BEARLEY
W.-. ELMER S. MULLEN Bro. SILAS R . HORTON
Grand Master. as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden.. as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary.
Bro. and Rev. J. H. STRAYBR Bro. CLINTON H . PATTEN Bro. WILLIAM L . BEARLEY Bro. BuEL W. RICHARDS Bro. PRESTON BAYLOR
as Grand Chaplain. as Grand Senior Deacon.. as Grand Junior Deacon. as Grand Senior Steward. as Grand Junior Steward.
M.". W.'. ELMER F . STRAIN W.-. PAUL BROWN
as Grand Orator. as Grand Marshal.
W.-. L. C. HICKS W.'. JOHN R . METTLER
as Bearer of Great Lights. )
W.-. ORAL FRANKLIN
> Grand Taper Bearers.
W.-. P . P . INNES
)
W.-. A. G. PETERSON W.-. WILLIAM CORRELL
1 !
W.-. GKOVER L . LOAR W.-. J. T. SHORT
' J
W.-. CHARLES H . BROWN W.-. W. AMER BURNETT
as Grand Pursuivant. Grand Tyler.
„^
^
., .,
!• Bearers of the "Lodge."
The Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry in a room apart from the new lodge room. The Grand Lodge repaired in Grand Procession to the lodge room on the main floor of the new temple, where the building was dedicated in accordance -with the Ancient Ceremonies, in the presence of a large assemblage of brethren and citizens of the community and from surrounding towns.
700
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
M.'. W.'. ELMER F . STRAIN, Grand Orator, delivered a very pleasing and instructive address. Several excellent musical numbers were rendered during the program, at the close of which the Grand Lodge repaired in Grand Procession to the place of convening and was closed in Ample Form on the first .degree of Masonry. JOHN W . NEILSON,
Attest:
Grand Master. SILAS R . HORTON,
as Grand Secretary.
192G-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
701
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
HUTCHINSON, KANSAS, October 4, 1926.
Upon request of Reno Lodge No. 140, of Hutchinson, Kansas, the M.'.W.". Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas, was convened in Special Communication in the Hall of Reno Lodge No. 140, at Hutchinson, Kansas, on October 4, 1926, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the Masonic Temple now under construction in the City of Hutchinson, Kansas. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: M.".W.\ W.'. Bro. Bro.
JOHN W . NEILSON EDWIN P. JONES IVAN W . JONES RUSSELL H . MILLER
W.-. ALBERT H . FOELTZEK W.-. ODIE L . BATEMAN Bro. and Rev. FRED E . BROOKS
Bro. Bro. W.'. W.-.
A. LEWIS OSWALD GEORGE M . RUSH CLARENCE R . ATEN FRANK D . SPERRY
Grand Master. as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden. as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary. Grand Chaplain. -
as Grand as Grand Grand Grand
Senior Junior Senior Junior
Deacon. Deacon. Steward. Steward.
Bro. CHARLES A. CONKLING
as Grand Marshal.
W.\ SAMUEL H . SIDLINGER
as Grand Sword Bearer.
W.-. HOMER T . HARDEN Bro. WILLIAM H . S. BENEDICT
Grand Pursuivant. as Grand Tyler.
The M.\W.'. Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. The Grand Lodge then formed in Grand Procession with W.'. Brothers SAMUEL S . GRAYBILL, ALFRED E . NOONAN, CLARENCE W . PAYNE, HENRY S, ZINN and GUY C . GLASCOCK carrying the Tuscan,
Doric, Ionic, Corinthian and Composite columns, W.'. Brothers J. HENRY ROBERTS and JOHN H . PERGETER the Celestial and Terrestrial
Globes, W.-. Brother THOMAS R . ROSS as Light Bearer. The Grand Lodge marched to the site of the new Temple where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity, followed by a very impressive and instructive address by M.'. W.-. ELRICK C . COLE, of Great Bend, Kansas. We had as honorary guests for the occasion M.'.W.'. THOMAS G . FITCH, R . - . W . ' . ALBERT K . WILSON, Grand Secretary, W.-. H E N R Y
702
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
WALLENSTEIN of Wichita, Kansas, and M/.W.-. PERRY M . HOISINGTON
of Newton, Kansas. The Grand Lodge then returned to the Hall of Reno Lodge No. 140, where it was closed in Ample Form. JOHN W . NEILSON,
Attest:
Grand Master. O D I E L . BATBMAN,
ae Grand Secretary.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE OF KANSAS.
703
REPORT OF LIBRARIAN.
R.-. W.-. ALBERT K . WILSON, Librarian, presented the following report, which was referred to the Committee on Reports of Grand Officers: To the M:. W:. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: The work in the Library and Museum during the past year has been along the same lines as that of the past, except no indexing whatever has been done other than the Proceedings of our own Grand Lodge. Additional help has recently been added to the office thus permitting the work of cataloging and indexing the library to be taken up and carried forward along the lines established by our late Brother THEODORE H . MORRISON.
Since the death of Brother MORRISON no
indexing has been done, largely on account of not being able to secure the necessary assistance; however, we are fortunate now in being able to turji this portion of the work over to one of the employes of the office who has been in close touch with the library for nine years. As this work progresses it is hoped that in due time a circulating department can be established, permitting brethren who are interested to secure valuable reading matter on Masonic subjects. During the year there has been added to the library a number of valuable books, most of them gifts to the Grand Lodge, but in some cases they could only be secured by purchase through the publishers. Among this collection is a complete set of the Geographic Magazine which your Librarian was authorized to purchase at the last Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge. We are to be congratulated on securing this wonderful series of magazines, being complete from its first issue. There are only two or three complete sets of this work in existence and the Society doubts whether another complete set could be secured at any price. Great care should be taken by the Grand Lodge in the future to see that none of these valuable books are taken out of the Library. The additions to the Library are as follows: The Story of the Past Two Hundred Years. Grand Lodge of Ireland. Proceedings of " T h e Mutuals." Seattle. July 28, 1925. Proceedings Supreme Council. Southern Jurisdiction. 1925. Report Masonic Relief Association United States and Canada. 1925. Masonic Footprints. By Bro. A. B. HARPER. England. A History of the Cryptic Rite of Freemasonry in Oklahoma. By CHARLES C . CREAGOR.
1925.
Pamphlet Concerning Masonry in the Philippine Islands. 1926. An Introduction to Freemasonry. By H. L. HAYWOOD. Masonic Year Book. 1926. The Masonic History Company.
704
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE .
February,
Address delivered at Dedication of Masonic Home for Orphans. Louisiana. 1925. The Necessity of the Royal Craft. By WILLIAM F . KUHN. 1921. Proceedings Sixteenth Annual Convention Washington National Memorial. 1926. Proceedings Supreme Council Northern Jurisdiction. 1925. Georgia's Masonic Secretaries' Association. 1926. Proceedings Bi-Centenary Festival. Grand Lodge Ireland. 1925. The Story of the Thirty-sixth Triennial. Seattle. 1926. The Lost Books of the Bible. 1926. Holy Bible. Translated from the Latin Vulgate. New Testament translated 1582. Old Testament, 1609. Presented by SAMUEL E . FERGUSON, member Olathe Lodge No. 19, Kansas. Fac simile of the Constitutions of Free-Masons, ANDERSON. 1734. Centennial Exercises. Grand Council of Massachusetts. 1926. Digest Masonic Law. New Mexico. 1926. Masonic Law. Grand Lodge New Mexico. 1922. Freemasonry in the Kingdom of Romania'. 1926. Life Story of James Millikin. By ALBERT R . TAYLOR, First President of the James Millikin University of Illinois. Proceedings Grand Imperial Council Red Cross of Constantine. 1926. Constitution of the Grand Lodge of Honduras. 1923. History of Freemasonry and Concordant Orders. Edition 1923. Historical Notes Grand Lodge Valle de Mexico. 1924. Genealogy Carruth Family. 1926. The Story of Freemasonry. Masonic History Company. 1926. The Customs of Mankind. 1925. Masonic Charity Foundation. Connecticut. 1926. Pillars of Masonry. By Brother A. B. HARPER. England. Merseyside Masters. Masonic Manual of Alabama. 1924. Masonic Rezon. South Carolina. 1922. Copies of the laws of the following Grand Jurisdictions: Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin. Masonic Code-Quiz. Illinois. 1917. Fragments of Templar History. Minnesota. Thirteen volumes Kipling's Works, to be added to the McFarland Library.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
705
In addition to the above, we have received, in exchange for our Proceedings, a large number of Masonic magazines, periodicals, addresses, orations and Masonic sketches of various kinds. Among the books of special importance added to the Library during the past year and worthy of special mention is that presented by Brother F . C. BEINDORF, a member of Pasco Lodge No. 173 of Pasco, Washington, but now residing in Atchison, Kansas—a copy of the Dr. Martin Luther Bible, printed in 1684 at Luneberg, Germany. This book has passed from one generation to the next in Brother BEINDORF'S family. The museum department -has been greatly enhanced during the year by the addition of many rare and valuable articles, purely of a Masonic character, all of which have been properly labeled and filed in our museum cases. Among this collection might be mentioned particularly one of the earliest makes of a "Low Twelve Bell," manufactured and presented to Smithton Lodge No. 1 in 1871 by our late Past Deputy Grand Master, JOHN W . SMITH, first Deputy Grand Master of the Grand Lodge and first Master of Smithton Lodge No. 1. During the summer your Librarian found this old relic still in use by Smithton Lodge No. 1 and felt that in view of its historical nature it should be placed in our Grand Lodge Museum. With this in view it was suggested to the brethren of Smithton Lodge that they place it on file in the Grand Lodge Library, and accept in its place one of the modern tube bells, which suggestion met with the hearty approval of the members of the lodge and at the time of the unveiling of the new monument to the memory of Brothers SMITH and VANDERSLICB the old bell was replaced with a beautiful modern tube bell, on which had been etched the following inscription: DONATED BY THE GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS JUNE 7, 1926 TO SMITHTON LODGE N O . 1, TO REPLACE ORIGINAL BELL
PRESENTED THE LODGE BY ITS FIRST MASTER, JOHN W . SMITH.
ORIGINAL NOW IN THE GRAND LODGE LIBRARY.
Credit is due the Lilley Company through their Kansas City manager, W.". Brother EARL E . FAWCETT, Past Master of Emporia Lodge No. 12, for the part they took in furnishing the tube bell, including the engraving, without any cost.
706
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
Febrvmrjv
Your Librarian has withheld the work of binding many volumes on account of the cost, which has increased several hundred percent during the past twenty years. The time has come, however, when much of this material must be properly cared for and with that in view it is the opinion of your Librarian that we had better resort to a fullcloth binding, rather than the more substantial quarter leather which has been the style used in the past. This portion of the work will be taken up from time to time so that eventually all the material now on hand will be indexed and placed on the shelves in the library. Fraternally submitted, ALBERT K .
WILSON,
Librarian,
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
707
REPORT OF SECRETARY OF MASONIC HOME BOARD.
M.-. W.-. THOMAS G. FITCH submitted the following report, which, on motion of R.-. W/. FERRIS M . HILL, was received and ordered printed in the Proceedings: • To the M:. W:. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M.of
Kansas:
I have the honor to present herewith excerpts from my report made to the Board of Directors of the Kansas Masonic Home at its annual meeting in the city of Wichita, Kansas, on Thursday, January 20, 1927: To the Board of Directors of the Kansas Masonic Home: Within the year ended December 31, 1926, I received in cash items $162,321.10 from the following sources: Raising Fees Endowment Endowment Donations
$ 17,810 00 10,668 14
Grand Lodge Relief Grand Lodge Relief Refund Mortgage Loans Paid O. E. S. Christmas Fund O. E. S. Fruit Fund O. E. S. Music Fund
$ 1,715 00 1,432 84 12 00
O. E. S. Furnishing Fund S. A. Payne Land Account :.... Morse Land Account Nelson Land Account Lobdell-Stuart Library Fund Funeral and Cemeteries Refund Real Estate and Improvements Refund Gas Company Deposit Monument Account Refund of Advancement Guardian Funds Miscellaneous Receipts .•
$ 28,478 14 3,492 29 25. 00 55,100 00 3,159 84 375 00 1,501 10
685 70 34 102
39 00 00 16
339 44 500 00 5,030 29 203 06
Regular Income. Grand Lodge Per Capita. Eastern Star Per Capita Interest Loans Interest Bank Balances Total
$40,087 00 6,081 25 $ 16,448 51 608.63
17,057 14
63,225 39
•.....$ 162,321 10
All of which has been remitted to the Treasurer of the Home as per carbon copies of letters of transmittal herewith and as shown by receipts from him.
708
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
For your inforrnation and in order that permanent record may bemade. Endowment Donations is composed of the following: From Organizations. Raising Fees, 1926 $ 17,810 00' Order Eastern Star for 1926 2,640 83 Grand Commandery, Knights Templar Christmas, 1925 .. 853 75 Cherokee Lodge No. 119, Cherokee, Kansas 25 00 Burdick Lodge No. 429, Burdick, Kansas 10 00 Longton Lodge No. 26, Longton, Kansas 10 00 Benevolent Lodge No. 98, Abilene, Kansas, for H. C. Huber, of Gate City Lodge No. 525, Kansas City, Missouri 25 00A. K. Wilson, Grand Sec'y, Certifying Life Memberships 59 50Estate Estate Estate Estate
From Estates by Bequest. • Louis Miller, Topeka Consistory Charles Mills, Wichita Lodge No. 99 Sarah Margaret Cummins Frank S. Brooks, Member of Home Family
$
From Members and Friends. Roy Crawford, Topeka Consistory $ W. I. Ferguson, Kaw Lodge No. 252, Kansas City, Kansas.. F..M. Heath, Beloit, Sale Father's K. T. Coat Jacob Luma, Lafayette Lodge No. 16, Manhattan, Kansas Wm. Ralston, Sterhng Lodge No. 171, Sterling, Kansas Fred Ball, Kaw Lodge No. 272, Kansas City, Kansas E. H. Alesdorf, Topeka Consistory Chas. Edward Smith, Wichita Consistory
4,725 , 1,875 -279 24 100 12 10 7 2 2 1 5
0000 11 66. 00' 00' 00-. 79' 50 0000 00-
$ 28,478 14, To which must be added transfers of balances from Estates of Members of the Home Family. Estate Jacob W. Boltz... Estate J. L. Toepfer
621 75 49 27
Making total accretions for the year On January 1, 1926, the Endowment Fund was
$ 29,149 16 231,906 96
Making Endowment Fund on January 1, 1927
$261,056 .12
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
709
Within the year warrants were drawn in the sum of $168,149.66, charged to the following accounts: Loans made $ 95,000 00 Accrued Interest on same 1,498 15 $ 96,498 15 Grand Lodge Relief Leighty Land Account •. Morse Land Account Payne Land Account Nelson Land Account McAllister Land Account Beck Land Account O. E. S. Christmas, Fruit, Music, includes $116.00 from 1925 Real Estate and Improvement Insurance Funerals and Cemeteries Maintenance Furniture and Fixtures...-. Guardian Funds Lobdell-Stuart Library Fund Monument Advance, Refunded later Mary A. Hepler Music Fund, Music Lessons Miscellaneous Total
;
3,492 63 236 32 92 600 47
29 75 19 25 10 00 59
3,275 1,505 126 1,081 56,205 1,450 2,713 179 500 45 4
84 59 11 95 31 84 46 24 00 00 00
$168,149 66
In the Furniture and Fixture debit of $1,450.84, will be found $945.00, paid in exchange for new automobile, full credit having been given for payment on the one purchased in 1925. Also $184.75 for markers for rooms, $68.20 for window shades, and $252.89 for rugs. In the Real Estate and Improvement debit of $1,505.59 will be found $1,105.29 for gas burners, $308.00 for trees and shrubbery, and $92.30 for sidewalks. Included in the item of Maintenance will be found items as follows: Secretary's Office $ 573 00 Director's Expense 367 25 Home Physician 800 00 Bonus Mr. & Mrs. Snell, 300 00 Bonus Anna Cowles 60 00 Secy.. & Treas. Bonds 87 50 Safety Deposit Box 35 00 $
2,222 75
All of above accounts have been reported upon heretofore, with reference to origin and reason for carrying with the exception of the Monument Account. In November, 1926, payment was due the contractor on this account and $500.00 was advanced from our Treasury. This amount was refunded in December, 1926, from The Kansas Masonic Home Special Fund.
710
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
•
February,
It will be observed that $45.00 was paid from the Mary A. Hepler Music Fund for Music lessons, being the first payment from the earned interest on this account. Also, $179.24 was paid from the earned interest on the LobdellStuart Library Fund—this for books. The total cost of maintenance for the year 1926 is shown as $56,205.31 as against $52,069.03 in 1925. Detailed account of Disbursements by Superintendent charged to Maintenance Account: Plumbing $ 498 36 Furniture and Fixtures 54 85 Repairs 441 65 Salaries and Wages 12,774 05 Hospital and Drugs 1,319 91 Laundry and Soap 570 15 Automobile 360 92 Telephone and Telegrams 151 01 Light 1,895 98 Fuel 4,034 91 Water 761 49 Groceries 13,948 22 Meat 4,219 01 Barbering and Street Car Fare 993 90 Dry Goods, Clothing and Shoes 7,650 46 Table and Bed Supplies 234 71 House Supplies 1,116 08 School Supplies and Office 1,274 24 Power 734 60 Stock Hay and Feed 350 27 Garden and Orchard 309 44 Miscellaneous 288 35 Total General Expense
$ 53,982 56 2,222 .75
Total Maintenance Disbursed for Funerals and Cemeteries Insurance Real Estate and Improvements Furniture and Fixtures Lobdell-Stuart Library Fund Music Fund and Miscellaneous
$ 56,205 1,081 126 1,505 1,450 179 49
31 95 11 59 84 24 00
$ 60,598 04 All of above represents expenditures for which we will not be recompensed in money. Summary of Accounts for the year follows: January 1, 1926.—Balance in Treasury $ 12,308 93 Receipts for 1926 Total December 31, 1926.—Paid in Warrants in 1926 January 1, 1927.—Balance in Treasury Total
162,321 10 $174,630 03 $ 168,149 66 6,480 37 $174,630 03
192G-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
Trial Balance of Home Accounts follows: Debit Balances. Cash in Treasury Morse Land Account Mortgage Loans and Bonds Wm. Leighty Land Account Real Estate and Improvements Mrs. C. M. Beck Land Account Maintenance Funeral and Cemetery Furniture and Fixtures Insurance McAllister Land Account Miscellaneous Expense Credit Balances. Interest O. E. S. Per Capita Endowment Fund Knights Templar Building Fund Nels Nelson Land Account Mary A. Hepler Music Fund Grand Lodge Relief Grand Lodge Per Capita Grand Lodge Donations Building Fund O. E. S Building Fund Lodges Furnishing Fund, O. E. S Morris Education Fund Lobdell-Stuart Library Fund S. A. Payne Land Account Miscellaneous Receipts Guardian Fund
711
$
6,480 1,545 267,850 422 501,221 54 644,462 10,489 39,900 9,343 2,699 578 $1,485,049
37 28 00 96 07 84 31 77 78 92 38 86 54
$133,319 79,529 261,056 50 27 1,060 25 572,143 59,666 35,000 329,651 6,087 100 923 125 2,926 3,356 $1,485,049
76 40 12 00 21 00 00 80 41 00 01 56 00 70 84 93 80 54
Above items are for total in each fund since establishment of the Home. The total of $267,850.00 is invested in First Mortgage Farm Loans and Bonds. As a matter of fact, in addition to $267,850.00 invested, we may with propriety add the total of the following items in which our money is invested, and upon which we will eventually realize: Morse Land Account $ 1,545 28 Leighty Land Account 422 96 Beck Land Account 54 84 McAllister Land Account 2,699 38 Bokey Estate 1,262 48 Comer Property 455 95 Ion Estate...-. 402 02 Leota Magill 1 09 C. M. Thomas 79 53 J. M. Dunfield 1 28 A. P. and Laura Davis 22 00 Morse Guardian Account.. 28 50 G. W. Sommers .^_ 8 50 Total $ 6,583 82
MONUME
T ERECTED ON THE fA 0
IC HO 1E CEMETERY LOT . WICHITA.
712
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
We also own the eighty acre tract in Washington County from the Nels Nelson Estate, worth about $2,400.00, not carried on our books as a cash item. Likewise the Beck lots in San Antonio, Texas, worth perhaps $1,200.00 at this time. In the year, we have perfected title to the Comer property in Anthony, Kansas, and after payment of Mrs. Comer's funeral expenses, our interest should be worth $700.00. We also hold in trust $500.00 in Liberty Bonds for Mrs. Mary E. McFarland, $100.00 for Mrs. Mary E. Thomas, and $480.00 in savings accounts assigned to us by Amanda M. Bateman. Any balances upon death to be applied in payment of funeral expenses, and remainder, if any, to be credited to the Endowment Fund of the Home. As stated, the Wm. Leighty mortgage has been foreclosed, the land has been sold, and we will realize full interest and costs of foreclosure. Other than this, we have no delinquent interest on our loans. All taxes for 1925 and prior years upon lands mortgaged to us have been reported as having been paid—this in response to our inquiries in August, 1926. In the year we collected $17,057.14 in interest on loans, an approximate average of 6.05%. Loans on hand, January 1, 1926 $227,950 00 Loans paid in 1926 55,100 00 $172,850 00 Loans made in 1926 95,000 00 Loans on hand, January 1, 1927 $267,850 00 Of this amount $ 2,000 00 draws interest at 4 % 1,300 00 draws interest at 4 M % 13,800 00 draws interest at 5 J^% 203,650 00 draws interest at 6% 26,200 00 draws interest at 634% 18,400 00 draws interest at 7% 2,500 00 draws interest at 7J4% Financial Statement, January 1, 1927: Cash on hand Loans Morse Land Account Leighty Land Account Beck Land Account McAllister Land Account Bokey Estate Comer Property Ion Estate Leota Magill A. M. Thomas J. M. Dunfield A. P. and Laura Davis Morse Guardian Account G. W. Sommers Total
."
$ $ 1,545 422 54 2,699 1,262 55 402 1 :.. 79 1 22 28 8
6,480 37 267,850 00
28 96 84 38 48 96 • 02 09 53 28 00 50 50 6,583 82 $280,914 19
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
713
Liabilities. Endowment Fund Hepler Music Fund Morris Educational Fund Lobdell-Stuart Library Fund Guardian Fund Balance General Fund
$261,056 1,060 100 923 5,235 12,538
Total
12 00 00 70 56 81
$280,914 19
Balance to credit of General Fund January 1,1926 was Balance to credit of General Fund January 1,1927 was Showing Gain of
.$ 10,248 66 12,538 81 $
2,290 15
Details with reference to all of above items have been reported upon heretofore. The amounts to be paid to us on settlement of the Morse Land Account and that of the Ion Estate will be considerably more than as above shown for interest will be computed and added. 1919 1920 1921 1922
Annual cost of Maintenance at the Home since 1919 follows: $36,447 61 1923 $46,148 40,913 71 1924 53,320 39,782 65 1925 52,069 42,770 27 1926 56,205
49 93 03 31
By months for years ended November 30,1925 and 1926, warrants charged to Maintenance Account were as follows: 1925. 1926. December $ 4,749 94 $ 3,731 66 January 6,300 95 4,117 61 February 5,035 83 4,170 68 March 4,183 63 4,123 72 April 4,135 47 4,784 11 May : 3,592 13 4,369 57 June 3,374 45 4,198 83 July :.... 2,777 61 4,111 37 August 3,034 66 4,391 89 September 3,843 41 5,876 99 October 4,835 54 4,952 95 November 3,938 66 5,153 18 General Expenses Total
$49,802 28 2,266 75
$53,982 56 2,222 75
$52,069 03
$56,205 31
714
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Superintendent's report shows average membership of the Home Family since 1919 as follows: 1919 1922 1925 100 154 186 1920 1923 161 1926 192 113^ 1921 128 1924 174 At present of the 232 names on the roster of the Home 207 are actually in the Home. Per Capita cost based on above averages shows as follows: 1919 ..$364 47 1921. $310 80 1923. $286 64 1925....$279 94 1920 .. 360 47 1922.. 277 78 1924.. 306 44 1926.... 293 25 This includes all expense items of the Home and of Administration, in fact all items save those charged to Real Estate, Furniture and Fixtures and Funerals and Cemetery. It will be observed that the average membership in the Home was increased from 186 in 1925 to 192 in 1926, and that the per capita cost per member was increased from $279.94 in 1925 to $293.25 in 1926. Our income for the year 1927 may be estimated as follows: Grand Lodge Per Capita Eastern Star Per Capita Interest on Loans Interest on Balances
$41,000 6,300 17,200 1,000
Total
00 00 00 00
$65,500 00
Expenses for the year 1927 will probably not be a great deal more than for the year 1926. The larger average membership in the family will doubtless reduce the per capita. Expenditures on behalf of The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas for the year ended November 30, 1926, were $3,492.29, which has been repaid to us through the office of the Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge as hereinbefore shown. We have insurance in force as follows: Main Buildings. Expires. National Liberty 6-15-29 Ins. Co. of N. A 6-15-29 Philadelphia 11-25-29 Milwaukee 6-24-29 American Central.... 6-24-29 American Central.. .11-28-29
Amount. $ 5,000 00 5,000 00 5,000 00 5,000 00 5,000 00 2,500 00
$27,500 00
Chapel. American Central....
1-9-30
$ 5,000 00
$ 5,000 00
6-20-29
$ 7,000 00
$ 7,000 00
Barn and Contents. National Liberty
Total Fire on Buildings
$39,500 00
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
Furniture—Main Buildings. American Central.... 7-26-27 Central States 7-26-27 Home 7-26-27 American Central.... 6-24-29 Furniture—Isolation Cottage. Phoenix 6-26-29 Fixtures—Laundry. Aetna 6-24-27
$
OF KANSAS.
500 500 1,000 4,000
715
00 00 00 00
$ 6,000 00
$ 1,000 00
$ 1,000 00
$ 1,000 00
$ 1,000 00
$ 8,000 00
Total Fire Boiler and Accident. Hartford Steam Boiler Co
$47,500 00
9-1-29
$15,000 00
$15,000 00
TORNADO.
Buildings. Expires. Rhode Island 2-18-29 Camden Fire 2-18-29 National Liberty 2-18-29 American Central 2-18-29 Aetna.-. 2-18-29 American Central 2-18-29 Hartford 2-18-29 Phoenix 2-18-29 Ins. Co. of N. A 2-18-29 Central States 2-18-29 American Insurance..2-18-29 National 2-18-29 Niagara 2-18-29 New Hampshire 2-18-29 Niagara 2-18-29 Star 2-18-29 Philadelphia 2-18-29 Eagle Star 2-18-29 Home Fire & M 2-18-29 London Assurance ....2-18-29 Marquette Nat 2-18-29 Commercial Union....2-18-29 Providence Wash 2-18-29 Firemen's Ins 2-18-29 Total..
Amount. $10,000 00 10,000 00 30,000 00 10,000 00 25,000 00 10,000 00 10,000 00 15,000 00 15,000 00 10,000 00 10,000 00 10,000 00 15,000 00 15,000 00 15,000 00 15,000 00 10,000 00 10,000 00 20,000 00 20,000 00 10,000 00 20,000 00 10,000 00 10,000 00 $335,000 00
Above covers tornado insurance on all the buildings on grounds and is written upon the basis of 90 % co-insurance. Completed papers in all mortgage loans including policies, duplicate of receipts for all moneys received and transmittal of same together with all books of account of the duly balanced are herewith presented with this report.
the Home insurance letters of Secretary,
Fraternally submitted, THOMAS G .
FITCH,
Secretary.
716
PROCEEDINGS OF THE
February,
R E P O R T OF C O M M I T T E E ON REPORTS OF GRAND OFFICERS.
M.-. W.-. B E N S. PAULEN, chairman, presented the following report, which, on his motion, was adopted: To the M:. W.: Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: Pursuant to Section 31 of the Grand Lodge Laws your Committee on Reports of Grand Officers have carefully reviewed the several annual reports of the Grand Officers and herewith submit the following: GRAND M A S T E R ' S ADDRESS.
The prefatory to the Grand Master's address brings out some beautiful thoughts worthy of consideration on the part of the Craft, and deserves a careful reading in all lodges in this jurisdiction. It is evident that he had a full knowledge of the responsibilities devolving upon him during the past year and that every possible efifort was put forth to maintain peace and harmony. Your Committee first call attention to a number of subjects which require no reference to any special or standing committee, as they are either authorized by the action of the Grand Lodge, sanctioned by the laws or come within the province of the Grand Master or Council of Administration: Installation. Charter Destroyed. Lecturers. Grand Orator. Announcements. Grand Representatives. Foreign Relations. Corner-stones. Invitations and Visits. District Meetings. In dealing with the following subjects the Grand Master again •expressed the policy of this Grand Lodge as set forth from time to time heretofore: Elections Erroneously Held. Special Dispensations. Extraneous Organizations. To the Committee on Jurisprudence is referred the following subjects: Courtesies Exchanged. Illegal Suspensions. Illegal Ballot.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
717
Social Activities. Jurisdiction. Discipline. Commissioners of Trials. Decisions. To the Committee on Chartered Lodges and Lodges Under Dispensation: Lodges Constituted. Lodges Under Dispensation. Survey of Records and Funds. To the Committee on Finance and Property is referred the following subjects: Florida Relief. Grand Lodge Relief. Appropriation by Council of Administration. Recommendations. To the Committee on Necrology is referred the subject of "Necrology." Several subjects are embraced in the admirable address of the M.'.W.'. Grand Master which cannot properly be referred to any of the Standing Committees, and we therefore recommend that a Special Committee of three be appointed to whom shall be referred the following topics: Grand Lodge History. Unveiling Monument. Financing Temples. District Deputy Grand Masters. Condition of the Craft. GRAND TREASURER'S REPORT. We recommend that the usually well prepared report of the Grand Treasurer be referred to the Committee on Finance and Property. GRAND SECRETARY'S REPORT. The report of the Grand Secretary covers not only statistical tables and financial exhibits, but likewise a large number of important matters which should receive attention at the hands of this Grand Lodge.
WORK ROOM. Looking North.
718
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
The following subjects need no special reference to any committee: Proceedings 1926. Historical Registry and Abstract. Charters Issued. Hall Burned. Complete List of Charters Filed. Masonic Districts. Change in District Deputy Grand Masters. Grand Representatives. Indexing Proceedings. Portraits of Fast Grand Masters. Reduced Railroad Pare. List of Regular Lodges. Time for Payment of Grand Lodge Dues. Grand Secretary's Certificates. Official Circulars. To the Committee on Jurisprudence is referred the following subjects: Courtesies Exchanged. Conferring Degrees in Less than the Lawful Time. Transcript of Trials. Constitution and By-Laws. Certificates for Transfer—Dimits. Report of Illegal Suspensions. Information Concerning the Time of Making Order for Second Notice. Section 52, By-Laws, Incomplete. Payment of Mileage by the Grand Secretary. Bonding Lodge Treasurers and Secretaries. Disregard of Grand Lodge Laws Relative to Manner in Which the Funds of Lodges are Kept and Paid Out. Amendment to Section 125, under subject of "Annual Reports." To the Committee on Chartered Lodges and Lodges Under Dispensation is referred the following subjects: Restoration of Charters. History of Lodges. Lodges Under Dispensation. Charters of Lawrence Lodge No. 6 and Acacia Lodge No. 9, of Lawrence. Illegal Elections. No Date of Election Given. No Date for Holding Stated Communications. Annual Reports.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
719
To the Committee on Finance and Property is referred the lowing: Binding Volume XX. Additional Museum Cases. Steel Filing Cases. Painting Basement, Grand Lodge Building. Estimated Revenue and Expenses. All financial exhibits, showing receipts and payments to the Grand Treasurer. As in the case of several subjects set forth in the Grand Master's address and which your Committee feel should be referred to a Special Committee we believe the following subjects from the Grand Secretary's report should also be referred to the Special Committee to be appointed by the Grand Master: Book of Instructions to District Deputy Grand Masters. History of Grand Lodge. Revision of Exhibit " T . " Donation to the Masonic Home. Librarian's Report. Fraternally submitted, B E N S. PAULEN, JOSEPH D . FELL, RANSOM STEPHENS,
BERTINE P. WALKER, ELISHA G . MINARD, Committee.
•
A P P O I N T M E N T OF SPECIAL COMMITTEE.
In accordance with the recommendation of the Committee on Reports of Grand Officers, the Grand Master announced the following Special Committee: ELMER F . STRAIN, CHARLES A. LOUCKS and GEORGE 0 . FOSTER. REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON NECROLOGY.
W.". HENRY WALLENSTEIN, chairman, submitted the following report, which, on motion, was adopted by a rising vote, followed by an invocation by Brother and Rev. JOHN WESLEY BATES: To the M:.W.:Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: From out the almost impenetrable and unyeilding past, Hoary Legends, Hieroglyphs, Biblical, Religious and profane history record and recount the construction and erection of the countless tombs of
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. PROCEEDINGS
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Caliphs in the Nile Valley; hundreds of wonderous Mausoleums along the Apian way—the Majestic Pyi'amids of Egypt; The Great Pantheon in the heart of Paris; and Westminster Abbey in London, all signalizing the marvelous creative Power of Man's Genius and symbolizing the Love, Gratitude and Adoration of Grief stricken Nations or Subjects. In every Era of man's existence, in every station of Life, whether Monarch or Peasant, rich or poor, high or low, have they vied with one another in their unceasing endeavor to bestow upon their beloved dead, whose ardent Love was to them the light of their soul arid whose beautiful memory was indelibly impressed upon the tablets of their minds, some visible token of deepest reverence, some perpetual tribute of their everlasting affection and unending devotional esteem. Following in the footsteps of our ancient ancestors; guided and directed by their holy and sacred example, we are brought to the profound realization that the thoughts of the past are the law of the present, and that their Ideals of Love and Duty are ineffaceably stamped upon our own Generation, impelling us as Masonic Brethren, at least once each year, reverently to remember those, our Brethren, who have gone out of our lives into the Everlasting Mansion of the Silent. Since the meeting of our Most Worshipful Grand Lodge one year ago, the souls of 927 co-workers in our Vineyard of Humanity have answered the mandatory Call of that ruthless messenger—Death. We could not, if we would, add anything to the just and eloquent tributes which were paid them, when they were summoned to that Everlasting Garden of Eternity, by those with whom they lived and who knew their many excellent characteristics; those with whom they labored within and without the lodge, exemplifying in their daily lives, the altruistic teaching of our Ancient Brotherhood—Men in every walk of Life, of generous souls, of noble impulses—-Men who had come to understand that life holds many responsibilities; many duties to be performed—Men who realized that acts of beneficence and affection, and occasions for the exercise of the Divine Virtues of forgiveness and loving kindness, would promote Brotherly love and happiness. Men who visualized and comprehended above all, that GOD's Law of right and justice must be obeyed and that by their exertion and compliance to this Law, there would ultimately be progress and advancement toward perfection. Men who firmly believed that here, we must become fit to live The Life hereafter, and in it find content, and that they who do so and by their examples, incite and urge others also, so to live, are true benefactors of humanity and indeed worthy of Immortal Honor. For these men, our Brothers, most of whom are unknown to us but whose many reputed deeds of kindness, whose nobleness of soul and mind, whose generous impulses to relieve the widow and orphan, and who aimed to bring joy and sunshine into the lives of their neighbors and friends, we, as Masons, will build no perishable monuments or
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mausoleums, but in our heart of heaits, we will erect an enduring monument of Love, which shall forever exalt and magnify them as exemplars of duty and righteousness. Let us not, however, lay the flattering unction to our souls, that only we, their Brethren, have builded a shaft of honor and love to perpetuate their useful lives—they also, with whom these loved ones walked in life, sadly remember that only their bodies have died, that their spirits hve and will live on forever in the land of undisturbed peace and perfect happiness—every act of goodness they performed, every true and beautiful word they spoke, will be treasured by them, and become an incentive to nobler deeds, by which the living honor the Dead. To them, much more than to us, their passing was an irreparable loss and in their lamentations, we can easily imagine their saying: We miss them so, The ones that go— Try as we may Thru grief to say: "Ah well, 'tis best;" The voice comes broke And when we choke The tears back in the throat, behold. The heart brims over many fold:— We miss them so, The loved who go: And when we try Just not to cry; To bravely tread our way alone The loved ones dead, the sweet ones flown. Rise in the memory and we say: "Oh, Father, bring them back today." We miss them so. The loved that go: Each place they sat, some cloak, some hat, Some sword, some trinket, favorite chair;— Day after day we see them there. Or think we do, and think we hear Loved voices falling soft and clear:— How can we help it then but weep O'er the dear dust of those who sleep. To those most bereaved, to those whose hearts are most sorely stricken, and to us, also, who but knew them as Masonic Brethren, life teaches a wonderous lesson, the true worth of which is that many hearts of friends should be saddened and many eyes drop tears when
722
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OF THE
February.
it ends; that the poor should have a good word to speak for us and thankful recollections of some acts of charity and loving kindness performed, and prayers to our Father in Heaven that these may in His merciful judgment outweigh our many frailties and errors. Thus the teachings of our Great Order endeavor to persuade us to live and so are we constrained to believe, lived they our dearly beloved Brethren, whose fraternal thoughts with our own, were so closely commingled. It has been said—"Everything has its use"—It is the part of a noble and generous spirit to bear patiently the sorrows and crosses of life and see with equanimity, the coming of death with its vnried aspects—Dreary and sorrowful to those whose lives prosperity has made pleasant; mild, if not genial, to those of adverse fortunes. As the years creep upon us, we, more and more, in memory and dreams go back to the scenes that were familiar to us in childhood and youth. We again clasp the hands of old friends, whose faces we see in the dusk of the evening and in the silent watches of the night. Jubilantly, we remember our apparently inseparable friendship and shamefully do we recall some petty quarrel, making us both inexpressibly miserable and unhappy, then when the clouds of disagreement had vanished and the sunlight of affection again brightened our days, we keenly realized that there must be, and is some good, in everyone. We knew that none are so unfortunate, so much to be pitied, so unwise as they who are the slave of their revenges and their malice—but that. Love is the health of the soul and hate its worst disease. The icy fingers of death were also laid upon the heart of our own beloved M.. W.'. Past Grand Master HUGH P . FARRELLY, upon whose honored shoulders had rested the Purple of our Fraternity, he having answered the inevitable Call, November 17, 1926. On a farm in Green County, 111., Brother FARRELLY first saw the light of day, September 2, 1858. Here he attended Public School in the winter months and later graduated from the Greenfield High School. At the age of twenty-one, he chose school-teaching as a temporary profession and to his many duties, added the study of law under the instruction of Hon. HENRY C . WITHERS of Carrolton, 111. In 1885,
after passing a regular examination before the Supreme Court of Illinois, he was admitted to the bar and in 1887 he began the practice of law in Chanute, Kansas. On June 2, 1885, Brother FARRELLY was married to Miss ELA F . ROBINSON of Carrolton. Both were consistent and prominent members of the Methodist Church, holding themselves ever in readiness to assist in every religious endeavor which benefitted all with whom they came in contact. Brother FARRELLY was an able and brilliant lawyer of statewide reputation. He was chosen as a member of a very important commission to codify the laws of our commonwealth. Associated
1926-27.
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OF KANSAS.
723
with him in this arduous task, were ex-senator CHESTER I. LONG and FRED DUMONT SMITH.
The commission received general commenda-
tion for its work and their findings were adopted by the Legislature of the State. Toiling zealously in the ranks and faithfully upholding the Ancient Landmarks of Masonry, Brother FARRELLY, after years of able and conscientious labor, was signally honored by the Masonic Fraternity by selecting him as its Most Worshipful Grand Master. This exalted station he filled with both credit to himself and his brethren. He will ever be remembered as a good citizen and an ardent Mason. Under the auspices of his own Lodge, Cedar No. 103, he was laid to rest in Chanute in the presence of his family, friends and Brethren. The Grand Lodge was represented by our beloved M..W.\Grand Master, Brother JOHN W . NEILSON, and others who had served with Brother FARRELLY during his term of administration as head of the Graft in Kansas. "Peace to his ashes,— " May GOD ever have him in his Holy Keeping." During the year, in twenty-three sister jurisdictions of our own fair land and Canada, from coast to coast, and from the far northwest to the Gulf, representing twenty-two states and one Dominion, eighteen M.-.W.'. Past Grand Masters, twelve M.'.W.". Grand Masters, two R.\W.\ Senior Grand Wardens, two R.'.W.'. Grand Treasurers, one R.'. W.-. Grand Registrar, and one W.'. Grand Tyler, in the very blossom of manhood, at the high noon of their glorious careers, passed into the Great and Eternal Mystery which Faith's unerring compass points to, as the Celestial abode of Everlasting Peace. To live in the hearts of those we leave behind, is not to die, so indeed must feel the Brethren with whom these Brethren labored as Masonic servants of humanity, bearing the Lamps of light and learning into the unenlightened recesses of men's souls and brightening the sunless and shadowy caverns of their Hves without which happiness and contentment would be but an idle dream. With unwavering trust in GOD, these exalted leaders of distinguished and distinguishing attributes and characteristics, the personification of altruism, constantly and unceasingly toiled in their Masonic church of human service and with sympathetic hearts and genial dispositions, they taught the true philosophy of our Fraternity: " T h e Fatherhood of GOD and the Brotherhood of Man." Brotherhood, what a word to conjure with; how little understood and appreciated, how little comprehended and valued—Brother-. hood—synonym for toleration—Duty, Justice and Righteousness; the foundation stone upon which the superstructure of our Noble Craft is.builded; true Brotherhood which gives to every man the right to worship GOD according to the dictates of his own conscience.
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, PROCEEDINGS
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February,
Masonic Brotherhood which erects a platform upon which all moral and upright men may m.eet—upon the Level and part upon the the Square. Such Brotherhood was the conception of those recognized leaders whose precepts and examples will long linger in the mansion of memories of their co-workers, like fragrant keepsakes— "'Tis the human touch in this world that counts, The touch of your hand and mine, For it means much more to the sorrowing heart Than shelter or bread or wine. For shelter is gone when the night is o'er. And bread lasts only a day. But the touch of the hand and the sound of the voice Live on, in the soul alway." Gratefully and fervently do we thank our Heavenly Father for the useful lives of these brethren, whose works will live after them and whose monuments are builded int he hearts of their Brethren. Believing this, let us say with the Poet: "When all is done say not the Day is O'er And that thro night I seek a dimmer shore Say ralther that my noon has just begun I greet the dawn and not the setting sun When all is done—
" They sleep as gently as they lived; and high Among the trees and underneath, where blow The swelling buds, the Green Earth seems to know And grieve—and hush—softly say: Good-Bye And all who love them, where the Blossoms bend Lean low to hear all Nature whisper 'Friend.' " With an almost supernatural reverence and an awe inspiring feeling of sanctity, devoutly contemplating the infinite wisdom and Beneficience of GoD; believing in the Immortality of the soul; raising our voices with heartfelt adoration and gratitude towards Him who doeth all things for the best, we meditate on the Divine teaching of His Book of Books, the Holy Scriptures, endeavoring with our finite minds to penetrate the inconceivable mystery of Life and Death. Mystified and Bewildered, we cry out— Oh, Lord, what is man that Thou takest knowledge of Him! Man is like unto Vanity; his days are as a shadow that passeth away; in the morning he flourisheth, in the evening he is cut down and withereth—Thou turnest- man to contrition and saith: Return ye
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children of men—oh, that they were wise; that they would consider their latter end. Oh, Father of Mercy; GOD of the spirits of all flesh, who dispenseth life and takest it away; who lowerest into the Grave and leadest the soul into Eternal Life; Thou hast appointed our days that we may sanctify our lives on Earth and prepare ourselves for Life Everlasting. Man is feeble and perishable, scarcely ushered into Life, he begins his pilgrimage to the Grave. Thousands moisten their morsel of bread with tears and the sweat of ceaseless toil 'til their fondest hopes vanish in Death— The eye of man was never satisfied with seeing; endless are the desires of the heart; No mortal' ever had enough riches, honor and wisdom when death ended his career— Man devises new schemes on the grave of a thousand disappointed Hopes— Discontent in the palace and the hut, rankling alike in the breast of the prince and the pauper.— - Death finally terminates the combat, and grief and joy are all ended— The grave levels all distinctions and makes the whole world kin— not affrighted, but with undying Faith in an all wise being, the Father of all Humanity, can- we confidently and hopefully express the reassuring and invigorating words of the ancient peer— Why art thou cast down, my soul. Why disquieted in me? Feel'st thou not the Father nigh. Him whose heart contains us all? Lives no GOD for thee on high, Loving while his judgments fall? Look above! GOD is love! Why art thou cast down, my soul? To the skies Turn thine eyes; Every tear on earth that flows, GOD the world's great Ruler knows. Was thy head in sorrow bending 'Neath the dreaded reaper's blight, When thy loved ones were descending In the darkness of death's night? Have no fear! GOD is near!
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Be consoled my soul, in GOD, Tears take flight For in light Walk thy dead on Heaven's shore, Blessed, blessed, evermore! Ever shall thy dead be living— From the Darkness of the tomb GOD, thy Father, mercy-giving. Takes them to his heavenly home. Wilt thou trust GOD, the Just? Soul, my soul be strong in GOD. GOD'S with thee Eternally! Then thy hopes shall be fulfilled And thy heart's pain shall be stilled.
Brethren, the day is close at hand when the great change shall come for us also. May we always remember that the influence of the words and deeds of those who have lived, though dead,, control man's destines— Thus unconsciously we obey the dead whether for weal or woe. The desire to do something that shall benefit the world is the noblest ambition to be attained by man— May we all so live and act that our memories shall deserve to be honored among men. Fraternally submitted, HENRY WALLENSTEIN,
Committee.
CALL FROM LABOR TO REFRESHMENT. The Grand Master called the M.-.W.-. Grand Lodge from labor to refreshment until 1:30 p. M.
WORK ROOM .
Showing Steel Letter Files, Annual Report File Cases, Historical Registry
Cas~,
Etc,
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'
727
AFTERNOON SESSION.
WEDNESDAY, February 23, 1927. The Grand Master called the M.-. W.-. Grand Lodge from refreshment to labor at 1:30 P. M. ORATION.
The
M.'. W.". Grand
Master introduced Brother of Benevolent Lodge No. 98, Abilene, who delivered the following oration, which, on motion of R.-. W.-. CHARLES N . FOWLER, was ordered printed in the Annual Proceedings: CHARLES MOREAU HARGER,
Most Worshipful Grand- Master and Brethren: We are assembled today in two capacities. We are here as individuals, each with his personal relation to society, his visions, his responsibilities—and perhaps his anxieties. But we are here also as Masons, members and representatives of a great brotherhood whose honorable annals, reaching back through the centuries, reflect broad principles of right living, of fraternity, of truth, and embrace the very groundwork of human advancement. Because we are individuals, each has his own philosophy of life, his ambitions, his code of behavior. Because we are Masons, educated in the ritual of the craft, with its lessons of sturdy manhood, its precepts of more than legendary value and its commands to maintenance of high ethical standards in our association with our fellow men, we owe to that relationship an ever-faithful loyalty. Humanity has ever witnessed a conflict between two forces. One seeks to exalt the power of the individual; the other promotes the collective influence of the mass. Primitive man sought the shining heights of regal glory, the kingly prerogative of undisputed rule. ALEXANDER, CAESAR, CHARLEMAGNE and all that arrogant galaxy of
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•
February,
despots stalking through the later ages represented individualism incarnate. For them existed only the throne and the scepter, regardless of the fate of subjects who lay down lives and fortunes at their bidding and whose sacrifices stain the pages of history. Gradually at first, but more rapidly in modern times, powers of the monarch have been transferred to the people while the number and variety of our activities have evolved for us a vaster responsibility than our forefathers ever knew. Like most human institutions in these days, the social conflict has been swept by change. Once direct arid simple, it has become bewilderingly subtle and complex. To serve the real or fancied needs of this new era has arisen a multitude of organizations under the guise of association, commission, club, board, union or bureau, each with its oflficership and elaborate program and with a membership which often has but a dim idea of what is sought to be accomplished. These relate to service, to charity, to religion, to labor, to finance, to education, to world affairs, to government and to a myriad of other objects which appeal to their promoters. Therein crowd-psychology frequently takes the place of •personal initiative and there is developed sometimes a trustful faith that merely by organizing can we solve the problems of society. The pendulum has swung far. While in every community numberless organizations have been formed, lived a hectic period of activity and passed peacefully into oblivion, multiplied others have taken their places. It is a current complaint that we as a people are over-organized and that valuable time and energy are wasted in Ihe multifarious duties connected with conducting formally the many new groups seeking support. The effect on the community of such over expansion is to weaken individual responsibility. The citizen assigns his duties toward society to a committee or to an officership; he adopts resolutions and goes home confident that the work is accomplished. He relaxes his own vigilance in the fond belief that others, duly elected to official position, will fulfill whatever obligations may be
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imposed. If he attempt to give attention to all the organizations to which he belongs, he sometimes becomes confused as to the direction in which he is tending and sighs for a readjustment of our civic and social life to a simpler procedure. Masonry stands in the midst of this complex division of society with its history and its standards, built into the fabric of life with a permanence that tells of the wisdom of the fathers and of the intelligence that moulded its form. The world needs this stabilizing force. The cry of the times is for permanency and we have in every department of life's activities a demand that there shall be some established order, one that shall remain firm no matter where lead the evanescent tides of emotion or the vagaries of the public taste. Herein lies the value of our order to the community for it stands today where it stood yesterday, unchanged in its teachings and umodified in its ideals. Masonry was a pioneer in the furtherance of the idea of brotherhood. It was a trail blazer in the onward progress of men. Our fathers looked to it as a vital factor in upbuilding of character and it has retained that position throughout all its history. Masonry is unaffected by the varying moods of custom, nor does it depend for its force upon rituals or legends. Its members realize that these are but the symbols of the inner faith that animates the soul and are but the established emblems of the higher good to which its teachings tend and its precepts command. Today is not as other days. The conditions that surround us are not those that faced our fathers. We see a world rent not alone with differences as to material things but one seething with the dreams of visionaries put forth as the decisions of judgment. These latter in their trial are unworkable; they come from sources that are either uninformed or are animated by emotionalism rather than by rationalism. We hear much of service—that comprehensive term which stands for making better citizens, lifting higher
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February.
the ethical standards of business, assisting youth to reach strong and worthy manhood and womanhood, making the path of the discouraged easier and shedding abroad a saving Christian grace. Sometimes this is wisely wrought; sometimes it possesses badly planned enthusiasm. Yet this very enthusiasm has its value for it is far easier to tone down than to build up. The citizen who is eager to do something may be guided in paths that accomplish worthy ends; the citizen who is involved in a maze of lethargy is of little use to himself or to anyone else. The world should not complain of too much energy; it has only to seek how that energy may be directed into right channels and be given a sane, firm leadership. What has Masonry as its basis for a position as this stabilizing and guiding force in modern civilization? Is it merely antiquity? The world is not concerned so much with what happened two or three thousand years ago as it is with things that are happening today. It lives in the present and we as Masons are a part of this time and interested in the things of these days. Masonry takes pride in its long record and in its •eminence as a factor in progress, but it does not base its claimi to the respect and honor of mankind merely on the fact that it is old. What it does recognize is that it ever has been a lifting power in the world, a factor in right living and good citizenship. This is our glory. It is the •element that binds us together, and makes for strength of manhood. Form and ceremony, we realize, are but symbols and evidences of the things of the spirit. They are the visible and outward measure of our brotherhood. They indicate the source of our fraternity and as such teach their valuable lessons and their cherished reminders of the beginnings of our order. Because we have these forms we are bound into a closer union and are able as Masons to accomplish greater things through the power of our united front and to shed abroad a finer influence for good. Added to that we have instilled into our hearts unbending adherence to the Ancient Landmarks.. Laid
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down in the tenets of our order is the great principle that whatever may be our personal affiliations or our personal relations to society, when we enter the sanctuary of our order we are brothers in fact and in deed. Here is no rank. The prince and the peasant are equal; power and place and circumstance are departed. All men are on a common ground and bound to act with one accord in whatever we as a body undertake. This is fundamental in Masonry. It is the one factor that stands out above all others and makes possible the accomplishment of the splendid service we have given to the world. It is not fitting to boast of our charities; all men should have charity. But we can point with satisfaction to the tender kindness we have extended to those who needed the care of brotherhood. We can recall the noble charities we support. In every community arerecords of helpfulness extended to brothers in distress.. Futher than that. Masonry has reached out its hand tothose who are unfortunate everywhere. The world and all its people are its concern. Its position of leadership is attained by this unity of action, by men gathered under one banner. It has come because members meet on a level, each as the equal of every other, joining hands to carry on the task of the common good. Hence is Masonry recognized as a vital force in civilization today. It has through all its years lifted higher the standards of human experience. It has taken note of the things that have to do with a fine life around us. I t operates as a unit in all its undertakings and refuses tO' bend its course at the behest of fashion or the mandate of caprice. Staunch, serene it stands, a tower of strength to its multitude of followers. Upon it our faith may rest, confident that this refuge in a bewildered world will not fail. The winds of criticism may blow, storm and strife of temporary upheaval may rage—but the everlasting power of Masonry remains unchallenged and undisturbed.
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Never before did the world need as now this firm and sturdy guidance, a force that changeth not with the tides of emotion but holds inviolate its basic principles of sound ethics. The children of men are ever seeking a panacea. They hail with acclaim new prophets, new affiliations, new dispensations, hoping, and perhaps believing, that these will ibring an end to all ills, establish a Utopia and shed unending happiness upon earth. But older than any vision of these days, thoroughly tested in their procedure and in the effectiveness of their teachings are the Ancient Landmarks set up by our fathers and embedded in the hearts of every Mason. Here is the true foundation on which to build. Upon it is perfected a structure that meets its builders' present needs, that fulfills life's demands and that showers upon humanity its manifold blessings. To hold firmly to the teachings of the past, to meet courageously the conditions of the present—that is the faith of the Mason. To do this it is not necessary that we forfeit our individuality. Perhaps we have as citizens sometimes surrendered too much of our personal responsibility and relied too implicitly on the machinery of government to do the things we ought to do for ourselves. Wisdom adjures us not to sacrifice the personal initiative. Just where lies the fine line that divides individualism -from surrender to the crowd is difficult to determine. Life holds for each its own interpretation. The course of least resistance tempts us to ignore the call of humanity, :follow our own inclinations, live within ourselves, re-ceiving all, giving nothing. On the other hand it is possible -so to become obsessed with the idea of public service as to •overlook the duties one owes to himself and to his family; -one may be so active looking after the public that he fails to care for his own soul. The ultimate effect on the in'dividual is about as undesirable in one class as in the 'Other, while neither represents truly the obligation laid upon us as citizens.
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We do owe a duty to our fellowmen; we also owe a duty to ourselves and to our familes. He is wise who so balances his philosophy of life that he gives to both these obligations an attention commensurate with his ability and his position. We are told that the "kingdom of GOD is within you" but it is equally true that the kingdom of this world is within you—life's finest experiences are subjective rather than objective, and it lies within ourselves to decide their direction. Every influence that extends our power to fortify ourselves against temptation and wrong leadership makes of us better citizens, better sons, better husbands, better fathers—it is the gift of gifts. May we not visualize a philosophy of life in which personality shall have its full expression and every hallowed tradition be perpetuated but which by uniting in such procedure as calls for mass movement shall accomplish the larger good and reflect upon ourselves worthy honor? The very structure of Masonry leads to this end. Its very basis tends to the strengthening of character by labor rightfully directed; never has its course deflected from the clearly outlined way. Blending with the teachings of our fathers all that wisdom and kindliness and courage can give is the path to accomplishment of our highest ideals. Shines as a beacon light one clear star, aglow with constancy and faith, alive with the gleam of good will, purity and hope, the emblem of those Ancient Landmarks always true to the soul's most earnest aspirations, the symbol of faith and permanence and truth, ever guiding into a safe and propitious haven. In his wisdom SOLOMON admonished us "Remove not the Ancient Landmarks which thy fathers have set.".These were not immovable monuments of form; they were vital and visible signs pointing to dutiful labor for humanity, to the application of our hearts and souls to the problems and obligations put upon us. Masonry lives and ever will live true to these Ancient Landmarks. It is inspired by the teachings of the centuries. And built upon such inspiration it so directs its
BASEMENT FILES. Pal·tilll View of Steel Stacks, Sho wing System of Filing Annual Proceeclings. Etc.
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February,
efforts as t o fulfill its mission in t o d a y ' s world as a stabilizing power for h u m a n i t y ' s guidance. Holding fast to the teachings of our craft and keeping before us t h a t vision w i t h o u t which we are told " t h e people p e r i s h " , the future holds for our order a yet nobler destiny, a n d fulfillment of all our aspirations.
REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEE. M.-. W.-. E L M E R F . S T R A I N , c h a i r m a n of t h e Special C o m m i t t e e appointed b y t h e G r a n d M a s t e r in accordance with t h e r e c o m m e n d a t i o n contained in t h e r e p o r t of t h e C o m m i t t e e on Reports of G r a n d Oflficers, presented t h e following report, which, on motion, was a d o p t e d : To the M:. W:. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: The several subjects treated in the address of the Grand Master, and the report of the Grand Secretary and Librarian specifically referred to the undersigned, have had consideration and the following report is offered: HISTORY OF GRAND LODGE.
Grand Lodge History referred to by both the Grand Master and Grand Secretary is very important. Too long it has been a mere matter of consideration. If Masonry in Kansas is and has been worth while, and we think we can modestly say it has been important, then the written record of its birth and life should be set down with painstaking care. Our procrastination has continued until the work will be difficult, and the collection of necessary data accomplished only by laborious eilort. No more wisdom was visible in the selection of our first Most Excellent Grand Master, KING SOLOMON, to build the Temple, than is in evidence when the Grand Master recommends our Grand Secretary for this work. Those who are familiar with the work of this •willing and faithful servant, and know of the lengthening years of his youth, realize that we should lighten the already heavy load rather than add to it. Believing that it is the ardent desire of the Grand Lodge that this story be prepared by our ranking Mason we urge the approval of the recommendation. Further, that succeeding Councils of Administration be authorized and directed to expend such sums and provide such additional help as may in their judgment be necessary or desirable.
1920-27.
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OF KANSAS.
SMITH-VANDBRSLICE
735
MONUMENT.
The unveiling of the monument to Brothers SMITH and VANDERSLICE was a fitting tribute to the memory and worth of two of our early artisans. Symbolically it had its equal compliment to the lives of all those early craftsmen who wrought with these Brethren. Their work was well and faithfully done, so may we transmit this great work to posterity. Succeeding Masters, members of this Grand Body, District Deputy Grand Masters of Highland District, and similar officers in jurisdictions where other Monuments are located should see that every care is given them. FINANCING MASONIC TEMPLES.
The Grand Master sounds a fitting note in reference to financing Temples. Home owning is a laudable ambition among Masons and Lodges. Wise planning in architecture and finance are equally important. A regulation upon this subject would be paternalistic and objectionable, however, all lodges should realize the experience that is available to them without cost through the Grand Lodge Officers. We recommend that all lodges submit their plans as to building and finance for the consideration of the Grand Master. DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTERS.
The District Deputy is necessary and- the office important. His work is bad if he be swelled with his importance and authority, or good if he in humility realizes that he is the local KING SOLOMON and must lead the Craft so that neither envy, discord, nor confusion may interrupt. Let we who are in the ranks honor the District Deputy Grand Master as we do his chief, and may you who receive this honor, know that to be great is to be good. CONDITION OF THE CRAFT
MONITOR.
The condition of the Craft is not alarming, but it is affected, and to an extent its purpose is deflected, by the spirit of the times. Every Master shouldtake this section of the address to his heart; pray over it; analyze himself; consider the pledges made at his coronation; and when he is sure that his talent is ready for complete consecration to the purposes of Masonry, carry it to his Lodge with all the zeal of his inspiration. Responsibility rests equitably and equally upon leaders and members. Co-operate. The Monitor contains the vital principles of Masonry,—every Mason should own and use it. See ye to it. BOOK OF INSTRUCTIONS TO DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTERS.
The Book of Instructions to District Deputies is convenient, complete, creditable. Its use .might profitably be extended beyond those for whom it was prepared. We thank the Grand Secretary for this added service.
736
February,
PROCEEDINGS OF THE EXHIBIT
T.
All lodges should know something as to the use that is made of their taxes. Revised Exhibit " T " (revised for thirty-three years) is a ready answer to nearly every question, and is an appreciated improvement. DONATION TO MASONIC HOME.
The contribution of Brother SNYDER to the Endowment Fund of of our Masonic Home is doubtless due to activity by Spivey Lodge to build up the fund. As we voice our thanks let us resolve to go back to our lodge and work for similar action by those who are able, either by direct gift, provision in wills, or through insurance. REPORT OF LIBRARIAN.
All should read the report of the Librarian that we may have a little vision of the treasures there. Making our members Masons is our imperative duty. Education is the only way, the stomach is only remotely connected with the intellectual system. If the circulating idea advanced can be worked out it will help those who feel unable to buy our literature, but desire it, and Masters will be enabled to bring added interest to lodge meetings. The efforts to catalogue and index the library are commended; doubtless it will be promptly completed and kept up to date. Fraternally submitted, ELMER F . STRAIN, CHARLES A. LOUCKS, GEORGE 0 . FOSTER,
Committee.
REPORT OF C O M M I T T E E ON CORRESPONDENCE.
R.-. W.-. ALBERT K . WILSON, chairman, stated the Report on Correspondence had been prepared, printed, and would appear in the Annual Proceedings. On motion of R.-. W.-. CHARLES N . FOWLER the report was adopted.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE OF KANSAS.
737
SPECIAL REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON CORRESPONDENCE.
R.-. W.-. ALBERT K . WILSON, chairman, submitted the following special report, which, on motion of R.'. W--. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH, was adopted: To the M:. W:. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: VERA CRUZ.
Under date of September 25, 1926, a formal request was received from the United Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons in the territory of Vera Cruz, requesting fraternal recognition. Your committee gave careful consideration to this matter, making a thorough investigation through reliable sources, and are convinced that we cannot, in justice to the policy of our Grand Lodge and the formula adopted, extend official reccgnition to this Grand Lodge. It appears that this Grand Lodge is endeavoring to establish fraternal relations with the Grand Lodge Valle de Mexico, which organization is not recognized by our Grand Lodge. It also appears that the Grand Lodge of Vera.Cruz estabhshed lodges outside of their own jurisdiction,- and in territory already occupied by a regular Grand Lodge. In addition to the above it is reported that this Grand Lodge is taking an active part in the religious controversy in that country, and your committee feel that our Grand Lodge cannot consistently extend fraternal relations with any Grand Lodge where interference in political and religious matters is permitted. We therefore recommend that their request for reccgnition be denied. Fraternally submitted, ALBERT K . WILSON,
Chairman.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON CHARTERED LODGES AND LODGES U. D. W.-. ELLSWORTH B . SEWELL, J R . , chairman, presented the following report, which, on his motion, was adopted: To the M.: W:. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: It is with pleasure that your committee is able to report a very noticeable improvement in the reports received by the Grand Secretary from the various lodges. Not only was the general character of the work much better but the year's correspondence indicates a disposition of willingness on the part of the officers which is gratifying.
738
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
The impression prevails that this committee delights in criticism, but we would be only too happy to report a perfect year and as we stated last year, it calls attention to errors and short-comings only with the idea of improvement. It passes over minor mistakes most of which appear unnecessary if ordinary care and judgment had been used. In most cases of errors in annual reports,, the errors would not have occurred had the officer making the report rechecked it. LODGE ANNUAL REPORTS.
The customary list of errors in annual reports are as follows: Diilerences in names and initials: Nos. 3, 5, 8, 10, 12, 13, 16, 22, 25, 28, 29, 30, 31, 33, 35, 36, 39, 43, 44, 46, 47, 49, 51, 54, 62, 66, 67, 68, 70, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 82, 93, 94, 96, 102, 106, 109, 111, 112, 113, 115, 116, 117, 120, 122, 130, 132, 133, 138, 139, 141, 142, 144, 147, 150, 151, 155, 160, 162, 169, 170, 175, 184, 187, 191, 192, 193, 195, 203, 206, 212, 213, 215, 219, 222, 228, 232, 234, 235, 239, 240, 241, 242, 243, 246, 247, 248, 252, 258, 259, 260, 267, 268, 273, 277, 278, 281, 290, 296, 302, 307, 308, 310, 313, 314, 318, 319, 321, 330, 341, 342, 344, 351, 352, 353, 354, 359, 361, 367, 374, 376, 379, 380, 384, 385, 390, 391, 396, 402, 407, 408, 410, 415, 419, 422, 427, 429. This list contains 68 lodges which were included in the report last year as making the same mistakes and indicates an indifference on the part of some of our Secretaries which is inexcusable. Initials or abbreviations used: Nos. 3, 8, 13, 24, 29, 33, 56, 62, 69, 71, 79, 82, 85, 87, 93, 112, 120, 130, 135, 139, 151, 153, 163, 213, 218, 221, 232, 234, 239, 240, 248, 257, 280, 337, 341, 344, 353, 362, 365, 368, 379, 390, 391, 401, 402, 410, 421, 427. Eleven of these lodges were in last year's list. Names not in alphabetical order on rolls: Nos. 28, 47, 62, 248, 258, 324, 341, 374, 398, 418, 422. Names not in alphabetical order under work done: Nos. 145, 188, 324. Incomplete list of officers: Nos. 27, 141, 165. Filing space omitted: Nos. 7, 30, 203. Seal used: Nos. 62, 82, 120, 431. Not signed by Secretary: No. 288. Ditto marks used: No. 348. Mutilated report: Nos. 101, 399. The report from No. 399 was in a deplorable condition, and we sincerely hope that its Secretary will make an effort toward improvement. SPECIAL MENTION.
No. 13 scratched out a name and renumbered the report. Nos. 4, 19, 310 changed alphabetical order fromMast year and a great many differences were found in names. No. 98 cut out pages 39 and 40 from the report.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
739
No. 351 scratched out names and re-wrote. No. 138 failed to fill out recapitulation. No. 218 used initials and changed the alphabetical order from last year. No. 24 failed to follow instructions when its report was returned ior correction and the Secretary is censured for his remarks to the Grand Secretary. LODGES DENIED REPRESENTATION.
The list this year is unusually small and we look forward to the time in the near future when this item may be eliminated from the report. Only four lodges are denied representation for failure to send intheir annual report within the time limit and are: Kickapoo Lodge No. 4, Potter. Salem Lodge No. 228, Esbon. Meriden Lodge No. 236, Meriden. Virginia Lodge No. 315, Savonburg. Credentials are denied Spring Hill Lodge No. 56 and Altoona Lodge No. 118, owing to their remittances for annual fees and dues not being forwarded as prescribed by the law. REPORTS RETURNED FOR CORRECTION.
One of the Grand Secretary's greatest problems is closing his books in time for this meeting and the chief obstruction is the lodge which furnishes an incorrect report and when it is sent to them for correction, fails to return it promptly. We penalize a lodge for failure to forward its report within the time limit, but an incorrect report in some instances is worse than no report at all, and we feel that some action should be taken to remedy these cases. ILLEGAL ELECTIONS.
The Grand Secretary submits a list of twenty lodges which apparently held their annual elections on a date other than that authorized by the Constitution of the Grand Lodge. This is an annual occurrence and indicates either great carelessness on the part of the Secretary in failing to report the correct date, or a lack of knowledge of the Grand Lodge Laws on the part of the Master. Your committee would therefore again recommend that in all cases where the elections were held at a time other than specified by law, that proper appUcation be made to the Grand Master for a Special Dispensation and another election held, and that the usual fee of $5.00 be charged therefor.
740
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
NO DATE OF ELECTION GIVEN.
i t appears from the Annual Reports that twenty-two Secretaries failed to report the date on which they held their annual election for 1926. We recommend that the Grand Secretary take this matter up with each lodge and where the election was held at a time other than that authorized by law, they be required to make application for a Special Dispensation and hold another election, and that the usual $5.00 fee be charged for such Dispensation. NO DATE FOR HOLDING STATED COMMUNICATIONS.
Notwithstanding the careful manner in which the annual reports are printed, providing ample space for entering all information required by the Grand Secretary, we find that sixteen Secretaries neglected to enter the date for holding their Stated Communications. This information is highly important as it is made a part of the Annual Proceedings. LODGE CONSTITUTED.
The new lodge at Kingsdown was constituted March 26th by District Deputy Grand Master, R.-. W.-. RUEL V. BUTCHER. SURVEY OF " R E C O R D S AND FUNDS.
We have carefully examined that portion of the Grand Master's address under this subject and most heartily agree with his recommendation that the incoming Grand Master continue this survey in order that the laws of the Grand Lodge may be strictly complied with in keeping the proper form of records and enforcing the requirements concerning the payment of lodge dues, as well as the proper handling of the funds. Your committee is convinced beyond question of doubt that a large portion of the errors in the annual reports are occasioned by failure to keep lodge records properly and as we recommended last year, the District Deputy Grand Master should check these important records carefully and where they are incomplete, insist that the officers make the necessary corrections submitting them to him for inspection promptly. RESTORATION OF CHARTERS.
The importance of this subject is very forcibly brought to your attention in the Grand Secretary's report under the heading "Charters of Lawrence Lodge No. 6 and Acacia Lodge No. 9." This is an instance where two of our strong lodges have been working for over a half a century with no authorized warrant of constitution. We are indeed fortunate that the records of the Grand Secretary have been so efficiently kept that we are able to remedy this trouble by issuing certified copies of the original charters. We recommend that the present charters of No. 6 and No. 9 be turned over to the Grand Secretary for
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE OF KANSAS.
741
cancellation and that he be authorized to issue to these lodges certified copies of the original charters. We have no way of-determining how many of our lodges may be in the same predicament as the Lawrence lodges, and the only safe thing to do is to take the matter up with the Grand Secretary and arrange for restoration. HISTORY OF LODGES.
Notwithstanding the fact that the Grand Secretary, and your committee have emphasized the importance to each lodge of compiling • a history, a great many have paid no attention to this subject, and as the earlier generations are fast passing away, it will not be an easy matter to assemble the necessary information in a few years to come. Lodges should not only prepare a brief history of the lodge, including a sketch of the life of each of the founders, b u t should place on file pictures, whenever possible, of the buildings in which the lodge has met from time to time as well as interior pictures of the lodge room. We, therefore, recommend that this be given attention by each lodge and that each and every District Deputy Grand Master'cooperate in this work. NEW LODGES.
On February 26th, the Grand Master issued a Dispensation to twenty-six brethren in Chapman, Dickinson County. Since that time, they have lost one member by death, and have raised eighteen making a total membership of forty-three. They have held thirty-six communications and their transcript is in good shape. While the indebtedness is rather heavy, yet with their membership it is not excessive and we therefore recommend that a charter be granted and that the lodge be known as Antiquity Lodge. A Dispensation was granted March 26th to eighteen brethren in Grinnell, Gove County. One candidate was raised, making a total membership of nineteen. We recommend that a charter be granted and that the lodge be known as Grinnell Lodge. Fraternally submitted, ELLSWORTH B . SEWELL, J R . , CLARENCE E . FARNSWORTH, JOHN DAVIS,
Committee.
742
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
REPORT OF COMMISSIONERS OF TRIALS.
R.-. W.'. CHARLES N . FOWLER, chairman, presented the following report, and on his motion, that part of the report having to do with Jurisprudence was referred to the Committee on Jurisprudence and the rest of the report was adopted: To the M:. W:. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: In accordance with By-Law 34-A which was adopted at the last Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge and which provides that the Grand Master shall appoint a Board of five past or present Masteris of lodges to be styled Commissioners of.Trials, the following brethren were appointed: R/.W.-. CHARLES N . FOWLER, Chairman, Salina, Kansas; M.-.W.-. RICHARD E. BIRD, Wichita, Kansas; W/. JAMES A. CASSLER, McPherson, Kansas; W/. FRANK D . SPERRY, Ellsworth,
Kansas, and W.-. J. FORREST AYRES, Greenleaf, Kansas. This Board met for organization at Salina, Kansas, March 28, 1926, with all members present. Regulations, forms and record of trials were adopted for the government of the Board and are now on file in the Grand Secretary's office. The Board, being organized, entered at once upon its duties under the Rules of Procedure in Masonc Trials, Appeals and Punishments adopted at the Annual Communication February 25, 1926. Testimony has been taken and verdicts rendered in a number of cases, all of which has been done without influence, sentiment, partiality or publicity. Verdicts have been rendered and punishment assessed solely upon the testimony as viewed by the Commissioners. There can be no argument as to the practicability of this procedure. The desire on the part of the Board to do justice both to the accuser and the accused cannot be questioned. The absolute elimination of all dissention which was the result of nearly every lodge trial, doing away with all publicity, sentiment or influence, have proven conclusively that our new Trial Procedure Law. is a success beyond our greatest expectations. Under this procedure there is no longer any excuse by which our lodges can justify themselves for neglecting to rid Masonry of those who, without shame, trample under foot the great principles and high ideals of the institution, a thing which, under the old system became almost impossible. More and more the lodges found themselves helpless. The record of our Police Courts, jails and the ever increasing colony of Masons in our penitentiaries is a disgrace, subjecting the Fraternity to the contempt and detestation not only, of all good Masons but of all good citizens. With justice to all and malice toward none, let us write upon the pages of history in this Grand Lodge an honest endeavor at least to clean up our soiled linen and rid ourselves of those who disgrace the
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
743
institution, and for whom we must continually make apology. Our list of libertines, home-breakers, wife deserters, bootleggers and criminals is altogether too long. " T o soothe the unhappy, to sympathize with their misfortunes, to compassionate their miseries and to restore peace to their troubled minds" does not include winking at crime and lawlessness. Masonic charity should cover many faults and imperfections, and should be exercised to the limit; but when all exertions fail and persuasion and good counsel are of no effect justice to the Masonic Order demands that action be taken. And when found guilty after due trial, these offenders should be crossed off for unworthiness and the Fraternity relieved of the burden. "The year's experience and observation suggest a few changes in some sections of the law, mostly in phrases which are somewhat indefinite and which may at some future time be the cause of misunderstanding. Masonic law should be specific. It is therefore recommended: Sec. 137 line two, that the word "over" be substituted for the word "under". Sec. 139 line two, after the word "charges" add "and specifications". Sec. 140 should be changed to read as follows: 140. Charges and Specifications—Summons.—The accused shall be served with a summons to which shall be attached a copy of the charges and specifications, commanding him to appear and plead thereto at the time and place named in said summons, and make such answer to the charges and specifications as he may desire. The summons shall be served upon the accused, fourteen days, at least, before the return day thereof. Such appearance may be made in person before the Chairman, or Chairman pro tempore, or by filing an answer in writing with such Chairman. Sec. 144 line two, add the letter " s " to the word "charge". Line three substitute the word "specifications" for the word "accusation". Sec. 146 line nineteen, substitute the word " s t a t e d " for the word ' regular". Strike out the words, "or as soon thereafter as shall be possible", and substitute the words, "after the expiration of the thirty days referred to". Sec. 149 line six, strike out the words, "after such ruling or decision shall have been made or such proceeding determined", and substitute the words, "from the date of the mailing of the mandate by the Grand Secretary". Line ten, strike out the words, "ruling, determination or decision" and substitute the word, "mandate". Line ten, strike out the word "made", and substitute the word "mailed". Line sixteen, after the word " d a y s " add "from the date of mailing the mandate".
LIBRARY A "D MUSEUM . L ooking N!lrth. showing portion or Stllel BQo15 S1;acks.
744
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Sec. 150 should be changed to read: 150. Appeal—Action by Grand Lodge.—Upon appeal the Grand Lodge may affirm or reverse the case, mitigate or set aside the punishment, dismiss the appeal, or remand the action for a new trial or for further consideration. If the case be affirmed or the appeal dismissed, the decision remains in full force. If the case be reversed, the reason thereforshall be briefly stated and the cause shall proceed as may be required by the Grand Lodge. If the Grand Lodge find the punishment to be inadequate or too severe, it shall proceed to fix the same, and the Master of the Lodge shall pronounce sentence at the first Stated Communication following the receipt of the notice from the Grand Secretary setting forth the decision of the Grand Lodge, and the punishment becomes effective from the date of such notice from the Grand Secretary. Fraternally submitted, CHARLES N .
FOWLER,
Chairman.
CALL FROM LABOR TO REFRESHMENT. The Grand Master then called the M.-.W.-. Grand Lodge from labor to refreshment until 7:15 P. M.
E N T E R T A I N M E N T — C H I L D R E N OF THE MASONIC HOME.
In accordance with the announcement of the M.'. W.*. Grand Master in his address, the children of the Masonic Home rendered a delightful and entertaining musical program just prior to the evening session of the Grand Lodge. As evidence of the interest in our Masonic Home the brethren applauded the children most heartily, both as they entered the room and at the conclusion of the program.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
745
EVENING SESSION.
February 23, 1927. The Grand Master called the M.-.W.-. Grand Lodge from refreshment to labor at 7:15 P. M. WEDNESDAY,
REPORT OP P R E S I D E N T
MASONIC HOME BOARD.
M.-.W.-. JOHN W . NEILSON, President, submitted t h e following report, which, on motion of R.-. W.-. GEORGE F . BEEZLEY, was received and a rising vote of thanks was extended the M.-. W.-. Grand Master, and on motion of M.-.W.-. THOMAS G . FITCH it was ordered printed in the Annual Proceedings:
Officers—19Z6. M.-.W.'.JOHN W . NEILSON President Concordia. M.-.W.-.THOMAS G . FITCH First Vice-President Wichita. EMMA M . VIBTS, O . E . S Second Vice-President ..Kansas City. M.-.W.-.THOMAS G . FITCH Secretary Wichita. M.-.W.-.PERRY M . HOISINGTON...Treaswrer Newton. Board of Directors. M.-.W.-. JOHN W . NEILSON R.-. W.-. CHARLES N. FOWLER R.-. W.-. FERRIS M . HILL R.-. W.-. GEORGE F . BEEZLEY M.:.W.-. THOMAS G . FITCH.. M.-.W.-. PERRY M . HOISINGTON M.-.W.-. WILLIAM EASTON HUTCHISON M.-.W.-. ELMER F . STRAIN EMMA M . VIETS, P. G. Matron O. E. S
Concordia. Salina. Emporia. Girard. Wichita. Newton. Garden City. Topeka. Kansas City.
746
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
To the M.: W:. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: The greatest duty incumbent upon us, as Masons, is the care of the aged and orphan, and for this reason we should feel gratified, that under the direction of the Grand Lodge, we have built and maintain here in Wichita, our splendid Masonic Home, knowing that the protection and care of these members of our family will bring to us, at last, the peace and satisfaction of a labor of love. Life has given to some of us her prose selections, but whether it be for the little ones facing the sunrise, or for the older members, "going down the valley one by one", the great heart of Kansas Masonry embraces them all, and it is not without justifiable pride that we bring to you the 1926 report which represents as far as words and figures can, the things that are being accomplished at the Home. ESTABLISHMENT OF HOME.
The credit for the initial movement to establish a Masonic Home in Kansas is due to the Grand Chapter Order of the Eastern Star, when in 1881 the subject was presented to their Grand Chapter. Continued efforts from that time until 1892 resulted in the appointment of committees from the 0. E. S. and all the Masonic Grand Bodies and a joint meeting was held in Clay Center on Thanksgiving Day, when plans were inaugurated. The first meeting of the Board of Directors was held on May 8, 1893, but it was not until June 10, 1896, that their plans were consummated by the purchase of the ROBERT E . LAWRENCE property comprising a residence and fifteen acres of land in West Wichita, for $21,000. Five Thousand ($5,000) dollars of this amount was paid by the Masons of Wichita. On December 22, 1916, fire destroyed the Home, but scarcely were the ruins cold till plans were formulated for building a larger and better Home. On March 22, 1917, the plans for the new building were approved. On February 19, 1919, the new Home was dedicated in accordance with the time honored custom. The total value of the present buildings and grounds is over $500,000. We are thankful for men and women of such vision who became leaders in a movement that has not been content with mere preachment but distinguished by actual accomplishment. Our organization extends its hand in sympathy, helpfulness and true friendship and responds in the affirmative to the inquiry, " A m ' I my brother's keeper?" ORGANIZATION OF BOARD.
The Kansas Masonic Home Board, a corporation, was organized in 1893 with seventeen members, but in 1897 this number was reduced to a Board of nine members, eight of whom are Master Masons and one a member of the Order of the Eastern Star.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
747
By virtue of their offices the Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Grand Senior Warden and Grand Junior Warden are members of this Board. The Order of the Eastern Star is represented on the Board by Past Grand Matron, Miss EMMA M . VIETS, who has served continuously since 1916. The other members of the Board are: Past Grand Master THOMAS G. FITCH, First Vice-President and Secretary of the Board and a Director since 1897; Past Grand Master PERRY M . HOISINGTON, Treasurer of the Board and a member since its organization in 1893; Past Grand Master WILLIAM EASTON HUTCHISON, now serving his
eighteenth year on the Board; Past Grand Master ELMEE F . STRAIN, who was elected as a Director in 1926. The annual meeting of the Board of Directors is held on the third Tuesday in' January of each year and a stated meeting is held immediately after the Grand Lodge Communication in February for the election and qualification of Officers and Directors. Special meetings are held at call of the President, and visits by individual members and committees enable the Board to keep in close, personal touch with the management and conditions at the Home. MAINTENANCE OP HOME.
No feature, of our Institution so beautifully typifies the spirit of Masonry as does the work of making for both old and young, a real Home in all that the word implies, and the Masons and Order of the Eastern Star of Kansas are making this possible by payments to our General Fund as follows: Fifty (50) cents per capita, annually from each Master Mason. Ten (10) cents per capita, annually from each member O. E. S., and this sum is augmented by interest on investments of our Endowment Fund and interest on daily balances in our General Fund. The growth of the Fraternity and the increased demands on our Home facilities make ever increasing needs,—and the needs are increasing faster than our membership. Under present conditions this problem for increased revenue can be met only by added contributions to our Endowment Fund, through donations or bequests. The Endowment Fund which is now $261,056.12 is invested in good securities, interest from which has averaged a little over six per cent the past year. Members of the Fraternity can leave no finer memorial than to arrange perpetually for the care and education of some brother's son or daughter either by direct contributions, provisions in wills, or provisions through insurance policies. ALBERT PIKE says, " W h a t we have done.for ourselves alone dies with us; what we have done for others, remains and is immortal."
'748
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
ENDOWMENT FUND.
January 1, 1926—Balance on hand Raising fees ($5.00 each) Bequests Received from O. E. S Received from other organizations Donations Grand Secretary's Certificates Transferred from estates of members
$231,906 17,810 6,903 2,640 923 140 59 671
96 00 77 83 75 29 50 02
January 1, 1927—Total Endowment Fund
$261,056 12
The total cost of maintenance the past year was $56,205.31, an average of $293.25 per member in the Home. This amount shows the actual cost of living at the Home, plus the cost of management, but does not include items charged to real estate, furniture and fixtures, funerals and cemetery. Those of you who were members of the organization at the time the Home was estabhshed have up to the present contributed $21.10 toward its maintenance. This includes $3.60 per capita which was contributed to re-build the Home and the Special Assessment of $2.00 to build additions later. Think of it,—in thirty years a trifle over ^20.00 from each Master Mason for our Masonic Home. SUMMARY OP REGULAR INCOME AND DISBURSEMENTS.
The following is a summary of the regular income and disbursements of the Home for the year, a detailed report of which is shown in the Secretary's report: Receipts. •Grand Lodge per capita •O. E. S. per capita .Interest on investments -Interest on daily balances
$40,087 6,081 16,448 608
Total
00 25 51 63
$63,225 39 Disbursements.
Maintenance and general expense J'urniture, Funerals, Insurance, ments, etc
$56,205 31 Improve4,392 73
$60,598 04 $ 2,627 35
T h e above shows that our fixed income last year exceeded our disbursements by only $2,627.35.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
749
There has been no appreciable reduction in the cost of living and our family has increased, so we are of the opinion that a most excellent showing has been made by our Superintendent and Matron, Brother and Sister SNELL, in maintaining our Home on so high a plane, with such comfort and care at a minimum cost. I wish to commend them for their faithful service and loyalty to the Home, which I believe is being made as ideally homelike as possible. GRAND LODGE RELIEF.
Following the ancient custom of tithing, one-tenth of our Grand Lodge revenue is set aside for a Charity Fund, to be used for the relief of destitute Master Masons, their widows and orphans and is dispensed through the Masonic Home Board by direction of the Council of Administration. During the past year nineteen Master Masons, their widows and orphans have been beneficiaries of this fund to the extent of $3,492.29. Appropriations from the Grand Lodge Relief Fund are made contingent upon an equal amount being contributed by the lodge making the application for assistance for a member. The maximum amount allowed from the Grand Lodge Relief Fund in any individual case is $25.00. ADMISSION.
The Home is maintained for dependent Masons in good standing in this jurisdiction and dependent wives, widows and children of such Masons, also for members of the 0. E. S. and their children. Applications require full information as to Masonic record, physical and mental condition, personal habits, financial circumstances, ownership of property and inability or refusal of relatives to furnish support. In the latter connection we have found that though devoted parents make a home for their children, these children will occasionally think it impossible to care for the parents. There is need of a knowledge on the part of the Craft of the purpose and rules of the Home. In order to preserve a " Home " there must be certain requirements concerning the character and capacity of its members, and a cheerful compliance with the rules prescribed by the Board. Applicants for admission to the Home must hold continuous membership of not less than five years in Lodge or Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star immediately prior to making application. Children are admitted between the ages of four and fourteen. Admission is limited to those who are in such financial condition that they have the fraternal right to ask and receive relief from the Fraternity, and in all such cases the Home gladly extends its shelter and protection.
Soutbeast View.
LIBRARY AND MUSEUM.
750
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SUMMARY OF MEMBERSHIP.
Members. Number December 31, 1925 Received during 1926...
Men. 65 25
Women. Boys. Girls. Total. 42 46 55 208 10 13 7 55
Total
263
Died Withdrawn.. Absent on leave or not yet entered
Men. 14 3
Women. Boys. Girls. Total. 10 24 4 7
5
10
8
2
25
56
Total members in Home Adiriinistrative officers and employees
207 21
Total on rolls—December 31, 1926
228
Among the adult members there are six married couples. The average age of those who died was 76 years 9 months. The average age of men now in Home 70 years. The average age of women now in Honie 76 years. The average age of boys now in Home 12 years. The average age of girls now in Home 13 years. There have been 669 members admitted since the Home was established. Number admitted in 1922 1 40 Number admitted in 1923 38 Number admitted in 1924 42 Number admitted in 1925 45 Number admitted in 1926 55 SPECIAL FUNDS.
Christmas and Fruit Funds. Through the generosity of the Eastern Star Chapters, Lodges, and other Masonic Bodies and individuals, it has been possible to continue our holiday and birthday celebrations and gifts, entertainments and other recreations which add to the education of the children and the pleasure of all. The following shows a summary of these funds which have been accumulating for several years:
192G-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
751
Receipts. January 1, 1926, Balance on hand, cash Balance on hand, bonds Received interest on loan Received Grand Secretary O. E. S Received cash from other sources.!
$ 2,725 9,000 360 3,179 720
71 00 00 59 60
Disbursements. Bonds purchased Entertainment Radio and grafanola repairs Treats Flowers and funeral expenses Tobacco Music^ Toys Fruit Honor pins Class pictures Boy Scouts Books and magazines Sunday School money Christmas and Birthdays Cash—Christmas Monument and markers Picture of monument Balance on hand
$ 3,000 39 33 125 58 386 43 30 78 4 15 31 182 26 512 410 9,990 3 1,017'
00 05 10 12 50 21 09 30 50 . 50 00 80 50 00 11 00 00 00 12
$15,985 90
$15,985 90
In addition to cash donations to the Special Funds there were received 8,523 quarts of canned fruit, 9 boxes and 8 barrles of apples, 62 pounds of groceries, some meat and eggs and hundreds of gifts including articles of clothing, bedding, table linen, furniture, books, hospital supplies, toys, flowers, candy, ice cream, pictures and magazine subscriptions. All the holidays are appropriately observed, but Christmas, the best day of all the year, was an especially happy one. Two weeks before Christmas, the assembly room was converted into Santa Claus' headquarters and from here gifts were distributed to every member of the Home. Perhaps the birthday celebrations come next to Christmas in pleasurable anticipation. At the close of the month all the children whose birthdays have occurred during that month are seated together at the dinner table and given a special birthday meal and gifts. This plan is also followed for the old people.
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Through the aid of our Special Fund and the kindness and generosity of local organizations and citizens of Wichita, the Home family has had picnics, parties, bus and auto rides and entertainments. Many of the children have participated in the activities in the schools and churches. Several of our boys and girls belong to the local organizations of Boy Scouts, De Molay and Job's Daughters. Music Fund. At present the income from the Music Endowment Fund is not sufficient to give special training in music. One of the members of the Home has given nine of the children lessons the past year. However, an unknown donor has very generously contributed $500.00 to be called the Home Music Fund, and I am sure after the program we have heard tonight, we will all make an effort to increase this fund to such proportions that the giver will have the satisfaction of knowing that from this beginning, there will grow a permanent music fund, the income from which will give talented, deserving children the advantage of a musical education. I wish we might at this time give proper recognition and express our appreciation of this gift, but the Biblical admonition "Let not your right hand know what your left hand doeth", must apply. Furnishing
Fund.
Since the rebuilding of the Home, forty-nine rooms have been furnished, wholly or in part by different organizations and individuals. There have also been donated two Memorial windows and a carpet for the chapel, a clock, hnens, book cases, a Victrola, and play ground equipment. During the past year $375.00 was contributed to the Furnishing Fund. Lobdell-Stuart Library Fund. The earned interest on the Lobdell-Stuart Library Fund, amounting to $179.24 was used for the purchase of books. MONUMENT.
By accumulation in the several Special Funds, during the past few years, there was amassed a surplus of $9,000.00 which has been invested in securities at a good rate of interest. It has been the opinion of those administering this fund that when it reached sufficient proportions a monument should be erected on the Masonic Home lot in Maple Grove Cemetery in Wichita, and the graves appropriately marked.
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In consequence, a meeting of the Board of Directors was held on July 16th, and the Executive Committee was instructed to have plans and specifications drawn and secure bids for'the erection of a suitable memorial. This was done and on September 29th, a meeting was held and four bids were received. The contract for the erection of the monument was awarded the lowest bidder, the Quiring Monument Works of Wichita. It is a polished granite column thirty feet high, on a massive base, suitably inscribed and each of the ninety-six graves is furnished •with a suitable marker. The monument is now in place and will be unveiled some time in May by the Grand Chapter Order of the Eastern Star, who contributed the major portion of the fund that made the erection of this beautiful memorial possible. Curbing and walks have been laid and the lot will be beautified by the planting of flowers and shrubs. INFIRMARY.
The advancing age and infirmity of our increasing Home family will soon demand an addition to our infirmary building at a probable cost of $25,000.00. Since the balance in our General Fund is not sufficient to build this addition and there is no present prospect of reducing our operating expenses, it seems probable that this condition will need to be met by the Grand Lodge. A head nurse, who was employed during the year, with the assistance of a night nurse and two helpers, has cared for as many as twenty-five patients at times. There are now twenty-three old people and one child in the infirmary, where they are receiving every care our Home physician and nurses can give them. The Order of the Eastern Star has started an Endowment Fund to assist in the building of a hospital in the future. Let us be as faithful to the ideals of our organization in adversity as in prosperity, in sorrow and trouble as in happiness and joy. In this will be found the true significance of our teachings. EDUCATION.
The children of school age attend the public schools of Wichita, and are making satisfactory progress. They are enrolled as follows: Boys. Girls. Number in grade schools 31 34 Number in junior high school 11 14 Number in high school 7 6 Our boys and girls are leaders both in scholarship and athletics. In the High School two students last semester received three A grades
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out of a possible four. In athletics three boys were leaders in gymnasium work, and one boy is on the foot-ball squad and also plays second violin in the HigH School Orchestra. In Church recreational work one of our girls is Captain of the Basket Ball Team and another Captain of the Volley Ball Team. In the Junior High School one girl received six, one five and one three A grades. In Junior High School athletics two boys are Captains of gymnasium teams, one boy President of his class. A girl is VicePresident of the Girl. Reserves and two girls have been Editors of their Class Paper.Our finances have been sufficient to permit the boys and girls, even though past the age limit for discharge, to remain in the Home, if they showed a disposition to complete their High School course. The Home has no funds to assist the High School graduates in obtaining a college education, but through the generosity of indi-vdduals and local organizations several of our students have had the benefit of a higher education. Three girls who graduated last year are now in Teacher's Training School at Emporia. Two girls will graduate this year, one will take nurse's training in Topeka, and the other wishes to fit herself for a teacher. Since 1919 fifteen girls and one boy have graduated from High School. Of this number thirteen have taken cultural or vocational training in higher institutions of learning. REPAIRS AND IMPROVEMENTS.
In general the buildings and grounds are in excellent condition and as the regular employees made necessary repairs on laundry equipment, water pipes and bath room fixtures, there has been little outlay for these items. In the fall of 1925 a change was made from coal to gas for fuel, and in addition to increasing effective operation, a saving of over $2,500.00 has resulted by the installation of gas burners. An irrigation plant has been proposed and will probably be installed for use in our garden and on our lawn and trees. In spite of unfavorable weather conditions there was an abundant supply of fresh vegetables from the garden for Home use during the summer and there was also a fine crop of turnips and parsnips stored for winter use. Bermuda has proven to be the best grass for our soil and climatic conditions and the grounds adjoining the buildings are now well seeded except the front lawn which has been plowed and is ready for seeding this spring. The planting of small cedar and pine trees on our grounds -was done successfully by the Wichita Nurseries Company last spring with a present loss of but three trees.
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CLOSING.
The closing of the year 1926 marked the Thirtieth Anniversary of the establishment of our Masonic Home. Enriched by the experiences and wisdom of these years, we find a recompense for our work in the help given the aged and indigent who have been unable to carry on, and have sought solace, rest and comfort in our Home. We also appreciate our opportunity to so train our children in their formative years that they may become men and women to whom we can point with pardonable pride and say, "These were our children." The Home Board feels deeply the responsibility of standing as sponsors for so large a' family but by a cheerful compliance with our rules and the spirit of harmonious co-operation that has prevailed this responsibility has been a pleasure and not a burden. By smoothing the rugged pathway with acts of kindness, true charity and benevolence, we are helping to make the lives of others brighter, happier and better and we can truly say, " H e has lived most who has lived in the hearts and lives of his fellow man." Fraternally submitted, JOHN W .
NEILSON,
President.
EXEMPLIFICATION OF THE WORK.
In accordance with an invitation extended Norwich Lodge No. 319, the Third Degree was exemplified in full dramatized form, in the Scottish Rite Temple, under the direction of W.". STANFORD M . SMART, Lecturer.
CALL FROM LABOR TO REFRESHMENT. The Grand Master then called the M.-.W.-. Grand Lodge from labor to refreshment until 9:00 A. M., Thursday.
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MORNING SESSION.
February 24, 1927. The M.-. W.'. Grand Lodge was called from refreshment to labor by the M.-. W.-. Grand Master at 9:00 A. M. THURSDAY,
R E C E P T I O N OF R.. W/. ALBERT R. DAVIS, DEPUTY GRAND MASTER, AND M.-.W.-. LEWIS E. SMITH, GRAND SECRETARY OF THE GRAND LODGE OF NEBRASKA.
Announcement was made that R.*. W.-. Brother ALBERT R. DAVIS, Deputy Grand Master, and M.-.W.-. LEWIS E . SMITH, Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Nebraska were in waiting to pay a visit to the Grand Lodge of Kansas. The Grand Master thereupon appointed M.-.W.'. Brothers ELMER F . STRAIN, PERRY M . HOISINGTON and WILLIAM EASTON HUTCHISON, to wait upon these distinguished guests and escort them into the Grand Lodge. In due time they were presented and introduced to the M.-.W.-. Grand Master, who extended to them a most cordial welcome and with the assistance of the brethren greeted them with the Grand Honors of Masonry. Interesting responses were made by these distinguished Craftsmen. SPECIAL ADDRESS.
•
The following Special Address, to be delivered during the year at all District Meetings and subsequently in all lodges, and which had been prepared by authority of the Grand Lodge and on instructions from the M.-.W.'. Grand Master, was delivered by W.-. ROBERT P. MCCOLLOCH.
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SYMBOLS. BRETHREN:
Having taken a survey of symbols common, to mankind we can confidently say they are of great antiquity, originating with the First Man, used as the first method of expressing and conveying emotions, ideas, thoughts. They are the basis of all languages. So universal has been their use that the science of symbolism developed, one of such interest and importance as to have engaged the attention of eminent scholars of all times. Symbols are closely interwoven with everything which concerns human life and conduct. All philosophy, religion, political relations, scientific propositions are capable of expression by the use of them. For example; the circle is an emblem of eternity; the cross, of religion; the flag, of government and country. Freemasonry, a speculative science founded on an operative art,- employs the implements of that art as symbols expressive of its profound philosophy. The use of these implements in this relation is evidence of the antiquity of Freemasonry and of the implements thus employed. It is indeed a remarkable fact that the tools of the artisan, the invention of which and the names of the inventors are lost in the mists of time, appear as emblems of a Craft, the age of which runs beyond the memory of man. While this address will deal more specifically with the symbols of the first degree of Freemasonry reference should be made to such symbols as appear in the three degrees, and which are designated as the Great Lights. These are the Bible, the Square, the Compasses. The Bible, as understood in Masonry, is that book, or writings, which reveal to Masons, universally, the will of GOD. By this symbol is expressed Divine Truth.. And, as was observed in a former address, whatever book or writings reveal to a particular people the will of GOD; gives the Divine Light; is, to the Craft of that people, a Great Light, to have place as indispensable on the Masonic altar.
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If, for example, a lodge is made up exclusively of Jews, the Old Testamient is to be that Light. For the adherents of MOHAMMED, the Koran is that Light, as is the Vedas to the Brahman, the Book of Kings to the Chinese, the Old and New Testament to Christians. By such a symbol, sacredly kept, reverently believed in, do Masons, everywhere, attest faith in the One GOD, Grand Architect of the Universe. "Into the bosom of the one great sea Flow streams that come from hills on every side, Their names are various as their springs. And thus in every land do men bow down To one great God, though known by many names. The mighty Being we would worship now. What though the six religions loudly shout That each alone is true, all else is false? Yet when in each the wise man worships God, The great almighty One receives the prayer." Another of the Great Lights is the Square. It is the Mason's symbol of morality. So appropriate is it in this relation that both within and without the bounds of the fraternity it has become of general acceptance. There is a difference among Masons as to the, particular kind of a square to be used as the symbol. In France the carpenter's square is used. American Masons more closely follow tradition and history in the use of the stonemason's "trying square", a tool with which the operative mason tests the exactness of the sides of a stone and proves the edges to have corresponding angles. There is positive evidence that this square of the stonemason was employed by our ancient operative brethren as the proper symbol. In the year 1830 an architect reconstructing a very old bridge near Limerick, Ireland, came upon a brass square of this description which had long lain under the foundation-stone of the bridge. It bore upon its surfaces the date of 1517, and these words:
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" I will strive to live with love and care—upon the level— by- the square." But, whatever may be the difference of opinion as to the sort of a square to be used, it is yet true that wherever Masonry is found there the square is present as the Mason's emblem of morality. The Compasses constitute the third Great Light. They are the Mason's symbol for virtue and the virtuous life. To him they are the measure of a true man. SHAKESPEARE must have had this symbol in mind when he wrote: " To thine own self be true • And it follows as the day the night, Thou canst not then be false to any man." This symbol is personal in its application, admonishing every Mason to conquer his passions and curb his desires. So shall he be a free man, rightly performing his duties to GOD, properly meeting his obligations to all men, and more especially his brother Mason, and cheerfully rendering to government that which belongs to it. In masonic philosophy the Square and Compasses have been long and intimately associated. Indeed, they are seldom seen apart. They have become the peculiar emblem of a Master Mason. So wide-spread is the knowledge of these as essentially and distinctly masonic emblems that they have received judicial notice and determination. In the year 1873 a manufacturer of flour in our country sought to use the square and compasses as a trade-mark. His application was denied, the basis for the adverse ruling being that these constituted a masonic symbol, in fact the best known of the symbols of the fraternity, and that the use of the emblem as a trade-mark would be in the nature of a deception, would give a wrong impression to the public, a thing to be avoided in affairs of business. In all human society there is, of necessity, a lodgement somewhere, in someone, of power and authority.' In Freemasoiiry these are lodged in the Master, the symbol being the Master's Mallet. The evolution of this instrument of power is curious and yet well authenticated. Beyond question it originated in
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the remotest periods. It is discovered in the mythology of the Nordic folk, where it appears as the Hammer of Thor. That it was derived by this folk from the Greeks is well established, as in Grecian mythology the same instrument was the badge of power of the God, Zeus. The Greeks got it from the Egyptians, who in turn received it from the peoples before their time, so that mythology, legend, tradition, history, unite to stamp the instrument as a universal symbol of ultimate authority. In the evolution it came to be used in courts and legislative assemblies, and in the hands of- the judge or presiding officer, its raps called to order and announced final decision. One writer has aptly said this of the Mallet: " I n early ages the Mallet was a signal by which Gothic courts were convened, and in districts where judges had ordered tribunals to assemble it was carried about among the inhabitants who, upon seeing the emblem of judicial authority, immediately assembled at the designated place. The custom of governing judicial bodies, legislative assemblies, stock exchanges and similar gatherings, comes from the same idea of authority; the sound of the mallet is only the re-echo of the same power in former centuries, made with the Hammer of Thor." Where this insignia of power had origin can only be conjectured, but, in one form or another, it has been used for more than three thousand years before the Christian Era. Proof of this comes from references to it, pictures of it, appearing on the walls of ancient temples and shrines of Assyria, Egypt, China, Thibet, India; in the Catacombs of Rome, on the Cyclopean walls of Peru and the forest rocks of pre-Columbian America. As a symbol of power in Freemasonry it was doubtless coeval with the beginnings of the fraternity. Its use in Masonry is as the distinct and sole symbol of power and authority. No Master is installed until his Mallet is in his hand and he informed that it is the necessary badge of his authority in his Lodge; that without it in his possession he is impotent to preserve order, transact business, govern the Craft. The Mallet is the token by
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which it is recognized that a Master has rightfully obtained and rightfully holds possession of his Lodge. Among the symbols of the first degree there is one of exceptional beauty and significance. It is the Lambskin, or White Leather Apron. This symbol, with its attendant lectures, is the most impressive of any occurring in the entire symbolism of the Craft. It stands for that condition in life which should be lived in order that all virtues may have systematic development and desirable perfection. Innocence, as it is presented in Masonry by the apron, commends itself to all right-thinking men as the proper relationship which should exist between man and man, and between man and GOD. It is the first symbol to be shown and explained to the initiate, as it is also the one with which he never parts. In a distinct manner it attaches itself to the individual Mason. In every degree the apron is present, with its many lessons, so that in progress through the mysteries there are frequent references to this emblem as the "distinguished badge of a Mason". Let no one imagine the apron, as a masonic symbol, to be a modern invention. Abundant proof exists of its very early use as such. In a former lecture reference was made to the discovery of a masonic apron in the pedestal upon which, for centuries, had rested the obelisk known as Cleopatra's Needle. There is also reliable evidence of the use of the apron as a badge of distinction by all the nations of antiquity, and especially of its use in all religious rites. Freemasonry, a universal religious philosophy, is generally credited with having, from the earliest periods, invested its candidates and members with this insigne of distinction. In ancient Persia and in Hindustan, this custom prevailed, as it likewise did in Egypt and Ethiopia. Out of such use there doubtless grew up the Jewish idea of investing the priests of the temple with aprons of pure white linen, some richly adorned with gold and ornamented with priceless jewels. Certainly all this would clearly indicate that Freemasonry is either the base of all systems of religion, or very early incor-
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porated in them, with the apron as the crowning symbol in the forms and ceremonies of worship of the ancient world. It must indeed be a calloused mind that is not deeply moved by the ceremony of investure with the Mason's Apron. The emblem is .calculated to awaken the thought of the lamb as the universal symbol of innocence^ and the spotless white of the apron brings the suggestion of purity. When, therefore, the apron is represented as of ancient and honorable origin; one worn by prince and peasant with pleasure and dignity; worn by the best men of all generations; to be worn by the Mason in life; to be his even in death; there should be borne in upon the candidate the high resolve to "So live, that when thy summons comes to join The innumerable caravan that moves To the pale realms of shade, where each shall take His chamber in the silent halls of death, Thou go not, like the quarry-slave at night, Scourged to his dungeon, but sustained and soothed By an unfaltering trust, approach thy grave Like one who wraps the drapery of his couch About him, and lies down to pleasant dreams." In our search for the origin of speculative Masonry, we discovered its base to be operative Masonry. In the speculative form, the working tools of operative masons become the working tools of the Craft, used as symbols to impart lessons designed to mold masonic character and build spiritual temples. It is singular how the simple tools of the artisan so admirably lend themselves to the •exposition of spiritual truth and the building of spiritual life. How striking is the twenty-four-inch gauge of the •operative mason when it becomes a working tool of the .Speculative Mason! In the operative art this tool is used to measure dimensions of stones to be placed in buildings. In the Speculative Science it becomes the symbol of time, teaching the life to be lived, day by day, in right
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service for GoD and fellow-man, in useful vocation, and with due regard for body and soul, finding strength and enthusiasm in proper refreshment and peaceful sleep. Thus does the gauge of the artisan appeal to us as the symbol of time, well ordered and well spent. The common gavel is a working tool of the Entered Apprentice. In this capacity it must not be mistaken for that one known as the Master's Mallet; The common gavel is well described as a sharp-edged tool which, viewed from the front, has the exact shape of the gable end of a building, and from which it derives its name. Observe, now, how aptly it becomes a symbol in Speculative Masonry. . You may be watching an operative mason a t work. Before him lies a rough stone. Taking his stone-mason's hammer, or gavel, he strikes the stone, with the sharp edge of the tool. Chips fly here and there. Gradually the stone assumes the desired form and is. lifted and placed in the rising structure where it fits with, exactness into the place appointed for it. What a symbol, this, for the contemplation of t h e Speculative Mason! How natural and how excellent t h e lesson. As thus the artisan breaks corners from rough stones that they may be fit for the builder's use, so should the Speculative Mason rid himself of the vices and superfluous things of life, that his body may be the better fitted, as a living stone, for " t h a t spiritual building, 'that House not made with hands', eternal in the heavens." The trestle-board is exclusively a symbol of the Entered Apprentice degree. I t has sometimes been confused with the tracing-board, but they are not to be in any way associated. The trestle-board has but one office in Masonry, while the tracing-board is a part of t h e furniture of the Lodge, and used in every degree. I t appears as a floor covering, or carpet, in which are wrought many symbols. A study of the trestle-board will mark it out as of highest importance in the building art. The architect has in mind the thought of a magnificent temple, a majestic castle, a beautiful cathedral, a unique bridge. H e
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places upon the trestle-board the particular design which is in his rnind. The builder follows his plan thus shown. Then appear, in material form, the wonderous temples and monuments of the ancient world, the cathedrals and castles of medieval times, as so conceived, designed and erected. And today, the massive structures that lift high heads in modern cities, the graceful and sturdy bridges that span great rivers, the palaces of the rich, the dwellings of the common people, all are the result of some architect's dream, made visible and useable by reason of designs upon the trestle-boards. And what is suggested to the speculative mind by these things? That the Grand Architect of the Universe has His trestle-board and upon it has drawn the rules and designs for the building of such spiritual edifices as will be acceptable to Him. From this it follows that, in Freemasonry, the trestleboard is the symbol of the law of the one GOD which is discovered in nature and in His revelations. It is interpreted in many religious systems, since Freemasonry has universal application in matters of religion. Freemasonry stands for religion as against all forms of irreligion. By the trestle-board Freemasonry declares belief in the one GOD, Grand Architect of the Universe, and •excludes from its communion all men who do not affirm belief in this essential doctrine. It is not concerned about •creeds, dogmas, particular forms of the faith. It merely in^sists upon the acceptance of that faith as necessary to membership in the Fraternity. Christian, Jew, Mohammedan have many points of disagreement, yet since they •all acknowledge the one GOD and find the will of the Creator in nature and the sacred writings of their peoples, they are united as children of the one Father, and recognize in the trestle-board proof of their common Father's designs for the building of their characters. The Rough Ashlar and the Perfect Ashlar are the contrasting symbols of this degree. In a material way, the former is a stone as it comes from the quarry; the latter the same stone as it comes from under the cunning hands
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of a. skillful workman. Symbolically they respectively teach the "ages of man". At first, ignorant, fearful,uncouth, vulgar, vicious; then the awakening of spiritual forces within him, the urge for the higher and better things. The rising gradually, by meditation, comparison, symbolism, to more excellent planes of life and action. The broadening view of responsibility and accountability. The grasping of ideas of Divinity. The acceptance and practice of the virtues as they are defined and clarified in the philosophy of Freemasonry. It is a somewhat curious fact that at an earlier period in the history of the Fraternity, the Perfect Ashlar was not given as a symbol. The place it now occupies was then held by what was termed the "Broached Thurnel". This had the form of a cube with a pyramidal apex. In the field of operative masonry it was a model for apprentices by which to learn the principles of their art. In the symbolism of the Craft it served the same purpose of instruction to the Entered Apprentice as does the Perfect Ashlar of our day. There is one symbol, first appearing in the Entered Apprentice degree and recurring in the subsequent degrees, which may be said to transcend in importance all others. It is that of " L I G H T " . It encompasses and illuminates all the others and is, of itself, the very essence of Speculative Masonry. The initiate, in utter darkness, is, suddenly, in the light. There is at once a physical reaction from dread to relief. But that feeling becomes of small account as, by the light, symbol upon symbol is revealed to him and he is brought to understand something of the spiritual principles and ideals for which these stand. Light had a large place in the religious systems and the mysteries of ancient peoples. It was then, and it now is in Speculative Masonry, a symbol of Divinity. Light was to the ancients an object of adoration. By the contemplation of physical light, they arrived at a crude idea of GOD as the source of knowledge, wisdom, truth. It was entirely natural that, looking thus upon physical light.
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they conceived of its opposite, darkness, as the source of evil. Out of these views grew the thought of the two, light and darkness, as contending for mastery in the world. All age-old systems of philosophy and religion rested on this proposition. Reverence for light as the emblem of the Eternal Principle of Good, dominated the religious rites and ceremonies, and such ceremonies were used in the initiation into the mysteries. By the use of it as contrasted with darkness, the neophyte came to such knowledge of the Divine Truth as was possessed by the wise men, philosophers and priests of antiquity who, in the sacred and secret chambers of the temples and tombs, communicated that knowledge to him. The symbols we have studied in this address, those belonging to the Entered Apprentice degree, and others occurring in all the degrees of Freemasonry, are as old as man, and designed to lead him to knowledge, wisdom, truth. Since the beginning of time they have elevated and glorified human life. But always there have been antagonistic principles at work which have hindered the acceptation and incorporation of the ideals represented by these symbols in individual and collective thought and action. One of the foremost educators and scholars of the present day, president of an American university, has asked this pertinent question: "Can men learn?" Discussing the question, this authority observes that the insights and teachings of the great prophets and seers of the race go unread and unheeded, while false teachers, leaders for the passing moment, proclaim empty but attractive theories which impress and mislead the masses and then go on their way to be forgotten, the harm having been done. He insists, that in our day of unexampled progress in science, discovery, intelligence, there is but slight proof of any considerable advance towards the spiritual attitude of man to man. These observations deserve serious consideration by Masons. The symbols described in this address are the visible signs of spiritual truths. Such truths, if energized, change characters and lives. If they are pre-
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sented in the right way to the right individuals, they will . operate as dynamic forces for good in individual and collective life. In order that they may thus bqcome effective, there should be the less of making members of lodges, and more of the making of Masons. Masonry regards no man for his position or possessions, alone. These are not to be ignored or despised, but do not constitute the controlling factors for admission to the Fraternity. Entrance there depends essentially upon character. This requirement may be sometimes too lightly regarded. Physical fitness is esteemed necessary, and with this, there should be the requirement of intellectual and spiritual health. Zeal for increase in membership should not overshadow the material to be received. Rightly chosen, the human material is made up into selected groups in every community, and these, united with other groups constituting the body of Masonry, exhibit the philosophy of the Craft. These are, in very fact, living symbols, known and read of men. Masonry should give answer to the question, "Can man Learn?" As men come out of darkness into masonic light and by that symbol learn the law of the true life, they should let the Hght shine forth, illuminating other lives with a radiance akin to the Divine Light which "lighteth every man that cometh into the world."
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R E P O R T OF COMMITTEE ON JURISPRUDENCE.
M.-. W.-. ELRICK C . COLE, chairman, submitted the following report, which, on his motion, was adopted, the amendments to the By-Laws receiving the required twothirds vote: To the M.: W:. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: Your Committee on Jurisprudence, having considered the various subjects referred to it, submit the following report: COURTESIES EXCHANGED.
The above subject has held the attention of the Grand Lodge and of various committees for some time, and at the last Annual Communication was referred to this committee which, in substance, reported that it would be necessary to make certain changes in the Constitution in order to obtain the desired results, and therefore that the committee could not at that time make report. After the close of the last Annual Communication, the Grand Secretary, who has a permanent objection to any change in the Constitution, corresponded with the Grand Master and others interested in the subject, and it is believed that a solution has been reached rendering any amendment to the Constitution unnecessary. We believe that the real object intended to be gained by an amendment to the existing law upon that subject was that time might be saved in a matter which was purely one of courtesy, and having in view that idea your committee recommends as follows: That By-Law No. 103 be amended so as to read as follows: 103. Petitions—Committee of Investigation.—When a Petition for the Mysteries of Masonry, or for Advancement when accompanied by a " W a i v e r " of Jurisdiction, or by a " R e q u e s t " from another Lodge, or for Membership, shall have been formally received, the Master shall refer it to a Committee of Investigation, to consist of three members, who shall be indifferent brothers, to be selected by him from the membership of the Lodge. In not less than four weeks, except in case of Petition for Advancement on "Request" of another Lodge, each member of this Committee shall make an oral report, in person or through some other member of the Committee, unless excused by order of the Master, and in the event of such excuse, a new Committee shall be appointed. In no event shall any one demand from such Committee, or from any member thereof, the reason for its conclusion, or the facts upon which it is based. All Petitions for Advancement upon " Request" of another Lodge, either within or without this Grand Jurisdiction, shall be referred to a Committee in the same manner and under the same conditions as a Petition for the Mysteries of Masonry, or for Advancement when accompanied by a "Waiver" of Jurisdiction, or for Membership; however, the report of the Committee on the Petition for Advancement when accompanied by a "Request", may be made and the ballot spread at the same Communication at which it is presented.
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OF KANSAS.
769
And that By-Law No. 100 be amended so as to read as follows: 100. • Petitions for Advancement—Contents and Disposition.—In all applications for advancement, upon "Waiver" or "Request", by a sojourner, or an actual resident, who has removed from the jurisdiction of the Lodge (whether within or without this Grand Jurisdiction) in which he was accepted as a candidate, a petition shall be required, and such petition shall state: (1) The name, number and location of the Lodge which accepted his petition; (2) the degrees received; (3) whether the petitioner is a sojourner or an actual resident; (4) whether the Lodge accepting him as a candidate is still in existence, and if it be, whether it "waived" jurisdiction or "requests" the advancement of the petitioner, evidence of such "Waiver" or "Request" to be attached to the petition; (5) whether or not the petitioner has ever been rejected as an applicant for any of the degrees of MasDnry by any Lodge, and, if so, the location of such Lodge and the date of such rejection; (6) the period of his present residence, if an actual resident. Petitions for Advancement upon waiver, whether by a sojourner or an actual resident, must pursue the same course as an original petition for the Mysteries of Masonry, and in the event that the Lodge which accepted his petition has become extinct, no petition for Advancement shall be received until the applicant shall have gained the residence required of a petitioner for the Mysteries of Masonry! To carry into effect the above sections it will be necessary that the following be annulled and your committee so recommends: Decision No. 46 by Past Grand Master CLARK, 1895. Notes by Committee on Revision, 1898, under the head of "Proceedings"; 1913, under the head of " T i m e " . SECTION 5 2 , BY-LAWS, INCOMPLETE.
Your committee recommends that Sec. 52 of the By-Laws be amended so as to read as follows: 52. Allowances for Schools of Instruction and District Meetings.— The lecturers designated by the Grand Master, and no other, shall be allowed eight dollars per diem and their actual and necessary expenses while actually engaged in holding schools of instruction and district meetings, and necessary expenses for transportation; said per diem and expenses or either thereof, to be paid by the Grand Lodge, or the Lodge or Lodges at the discretion of the Grand Master. REVISION OF CONSTITUTION AND BY-LAWS—GRAND LODGE.
Under the above head our attention is called by the Grand Secretary to the necessity for a revision of our Laws and the appointment of a committee for that purpose. Your committee recommends that the incoming Grand Master appoint a committee of two to make such revision and report when the work in completed.
770
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
SOCIAL ACTIVITIES.
Under the above heading the Grand Master calls attention to violations of both the letter and spirit of the By-Laws and Decisions regarding the use of lodge rooms and buildings. Your committee is of the opinion that the By-Laws and Decisions themselves fully cover the question and that the Grand Master has full power to compel obedience in such caseS. LODGE DUES—SUSPENSIONS.
We recommend that By-Law No. 125 be amended so as to read as follows: 125. Lodge Dues—Suspension.—A member, in arrears for one year's Lodge dues, shall be deemed guilty of neglect of his Masonic duty, and, by a two-thirds vote of the members present at any Stated Communication of his Lodge, may be suspended from all the rights and privileges of Masonry, and when any member shall be in arrears for two or more years it shall be the duty of the Lodge to take action and suspend or remit his dues: Provided, however, That no member shall be suspended for the non-payment of dues until he shall have had thirty days' notice of such intended action from the Secretary, under the order and seal of the Lodge, by personal service or by registered letter mailed to him at his last known pest office address, the registry receipt or returned letter to be evidence of sufficient service. Such order shall be made within sixty days after the Stated Communication next preceding St. John's Day in December. CERTIFICATES FOR TRANSFER
DIMITS.
The report of the Grand Secretary, under the above heading, to the effect that there is a doubt in the minds of many of our brethren concerning the legality of By-Law No. 170 relative to the transfer of membership, has received very serious consideration by your comniittce. We are unable to say that in our opinion By-Law No. 170 is in conflict with the Constitution. DECISIONS.
There has also been referred to your committee the following decisions made by the Grand Master during the past year: 1. Can any part of a Masonic building, such as a room, furnishings, pipe organ, etc., be designated as a memorial to the memory of a deceased brother? Answer: Yes. We recommend the approval of said decision. 2. Can a Master revoke the action of a Lodge? Answer: No. We recommend the approval of said decision.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
771
3. Can a brother prefer charges in a Lodge of which he is not a member? • Answer: A brother cannot prefer charges in a Lodge other than his own. We recommend that the above decision be approved. COMMISSIONERS OF TRIALS.
Your committee desires to heartily approve the selection made by the Grand Master of the first Commissioners of Trials under the new system of disposing of difficulties in subordinate lodges. We are satisfied that the change in policy has been for the good of Masonry in this Grand Jurisdiction, and believe that a continuation of the same work which has been performed by the present Commission will continue to improve the morale of the Craft in Kansas. It has been found necessary to make a few changes in certain portions of the law on this subject, and we therefore recommend the following: 137. Charges and Specifications—Accuser.—The accusation shall be made in writing, with specifications of the offense, under-the signature of a Master Mason, and given in charge to the Master, who shall call upon his Lodge to act upon the accusation, at a Stated Communication thereof, except as provided by By-Law 142. Line two. That the word "over", be substituted for the word "under". This section will then read as follows: 137. Charges and Specifications—Accuser.—The accusation shall be made in writing, with specifications of the offense, over the signa-' ture of a Master Mason, and given in charge to the Master, who shall call upon his Lodge to act upon the accusation, at a Stated Communication thereof, except as provided by By-Law 142. 139. Charges and Specifications—Entertainment.—If the Lodge, by a majority vote of its members present, determine that the charges be entertained, the accusation shall be given in.charge to the Grand Secretary, who shall, under the direction of the Grand Master, transmit the same to the Chairman, or Chairman pro tempore, of the Board. Line two. After the word "charges" add "and specifications". This section, when amended, will read as follows: 139. Charges and Specifications—Entertainment.—If the Lodge, by a majority vote of its members present, determine that the charges and specifications be entertained, the accusation shall be given in charge to the Grand Secretary, who shall, under the direction of the Grand Master, transmit the same to the Chairman, or Chairman pro tempore, of the Board. 140. Charges and Specifications—Summons.—The accused shall be served with an attested copy of the charges together with a summons to appear at a time and place to be named in said summons and make such answer to the charges and accusations as he may desire. The summons shall be served upon the accused fourteen days, at least, before the return day thereof. Such appearance may be made in person before the Chairman, or Chairman pro tempore, or by filing an answer in writing with such Chairman,
772
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
Fobruary,
Sec. 140 be amended to read as follows: 140. Charges and Specifications—Summons.—The accused shall be served with a summons to which shall be attached a copy of the charges and specifications, commanding him to appear and plead thereto at the time and place named in said summons, and make such answer to the charges and specifications as he may desire. The summons shall be served upon the accused, fourteen days, at least, before the return day thereof. Such appearance may be made in person before the Chairman, or Chairman pro tempore, or by filing an answer in writing with such Chairman. 144. Place for Trial—Who May be Present—Testimony Reduced to Writing—Pledge of Witnesses.—-The examination upon the charge and accusation shall be had at some convenient place and time to be designated by the Commissioners, of which due notice shall be given, and no visitors shall be admitted except as counsel or witnesses. Unless otherwise ordered by the Commissioners, the testimony may be taken by the Chairman, or Chairman pro tempore, or any member designated by him, who shall reduce the same to writing, to be submitted to the Board. Witnesses, if Masons, shall testify on their honor as such. Other witnesses shall be pledged to tell the truth upon their obligations and honor as a man and as a citizen before their testimony is taken. Line three. Substitute the word "specifications" for the word "accusation". When amended this By-Law will read as follows: 144. Place for Trial—Who May be Present—Testimony Reduced to Writing—Pledge of Witnesses.—The examination upon the charges and specifications shall be had at some convenient place and time to be designated by the Commissioners, of which due notice shall be given, • and no visitors shall be admitted except as counsel or witnesses. Unless otherwise ordered by the Commissioners, the testimony may be taken by the Chairman, or Chairman pro tempore, or any member designated by him, who shall reduce the same to writing, to be submitted to the Board. Witnesses, if Masons, shall testify on their honor as such. Other witnesses shall be pledged to tell the truth upon their obligations and honor as a man and as a citizen,before their testimony is taken. 146. Record of Proceedings—Punishment—Mandate—Right of Appeal—Time for Sentence.—The Commissioners shall keep a record of their proceedings and upon the completion of the trial shall make their findings of fact and conclusions of law and assess the punishment which may be either reprimand, suspension or expulsion, which said findings of fact and conclusions of law, together with the transcript of the evidence and a declaration of the penalty assessed, shall forthwith be transmitted to the Grand Secretary. Thereupon the Grand Secretary shall, by registered mail, send a mandate, under the seal of the Grand Lodge, to the subordinate Lodge that originally acquired penal jurisdiction over the Brother, setting forth the decision of the Commissioners in the case and shall also send by registered mail to the last known address of the accused Brother a copy of such mandate. The Lodge and the accused Brother shall both have a right of appeal to the Grand Lodge at any time within thirty days from the time of the maiUng of the mandate by the Grand Secretary. If no application for a new trial is made and if no appeal is taken from the decision of the Commissioners within the thirty days, the decision shall become final and
1920-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
773
the Master of the Lodge at its next regular Communication, or as soon thereafter as shall be possible, shall pronounce sentence as provided by the terms of the mandate sent by the Grand Secretary. Line nineteen. Substitute the word "stated" for the word "regular", strike out the words "or as soon thereafter as shall be possible" and substitute the words "after the expiration of the thirty days referred t o " . This By-Law will, when amended, read as follows: 146. Record of Proceedings—Punishment—Mandate—Right of Appeal—Time for Sentence.—The Commissioners shall keep a record of their proceedings and upon the completion of the trial shall make their findings of fact and conclusions of law and assess the punishment which may be either reprimand, suspension or expulsion, which said findings of fact and conclusions of law, together with a transcript of the evidence and the declaration of the penalty assessed, shall forthwith be transmitted to the Grand Secretary. Thereupon the Grand Secretary shall, by registered mail, send a mandate, under the seal of the Grand Lodge, to the subordinate Lodge that originally acquired penal jurisdiction over the Brother, setting forth the decision of the Commissioners in the case and shall also send by registered mail to the last known address of the accused Brother a copy of such mandate. The Lodge and the accused Brother shall both have a right of appeal to the Grand Lodge at any time within thirty days from the time of the mailing of the mandate by the Grand Secretary. If no application for a new trial is made and if no appeal is taken from the decision of the Commissioners within the thirty days, the decision shall become final and the Master of the Lodge at its next Stated Communication, after the expiration of the thirty days referred to shall pronounce sentence as provided by the terms of the mandate sent by the Grand Secretary. 149. Proceedings for Appeal.—If any party be aggrieved by any ruling or proceeding, or by any finding or decision of the Commissioners of Trials, he may appeal therefrom to the Grand Lodge within the time and in the manner following: At least ten days before the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge at which such appeal shall stand for hearing, as hereinafter provided, and within thirty days after such ruling or decision shall have been made, or such proceeding determined, he shall file a notice in writing with the Grand Secretary that he appeals to the Grand Lodge from such a ruling, determination or decision. If such ruling, determination or decision shall have been made more than thirty days before the first day of the next Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge, such appeal shall stand for hearing at such Annual Communication; otherwise it shall stand for hearing at the next ensuing Annual Communication of said Grand Lodge. If the party aggrieved give notice of his intention to appeal, and within thirty days file his notice of appeal with the Grand Secretary, the sentence shall be stayed until the appeal has been heard. Upon receiving notice of appeal the Grand Secretary shall transmit the case and all records thereof to the Chairman of the Committee on Jurisprudence. Line six. Strike out the words "after such ruling or decision shall have been made or such proceeding determined" and substitute the words "from the date of the mailing of the mandate by the Grand Secretary". Line ten. Strike out the words "ruling, determination or decision " and substitute the word "mandate".
774
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Line ten. Strike out the word " m a d e " and substitute the word "mailed". Line sixteen. After the word " d a y s " add "from the date of the mailing of the mandate". When amended this By-Law .will read as follows: 149. Proceedings for A-ppeal.—If any party be aggrieved by any ruling or proceeding, or by any finding or decision of the Commissioners of Trials, he may appeal therefrom to the Grand Lodge within the time and in the manner following: At least ten days before the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge at which such appeal shall stand for hearing, as hereinafter provided, and within thirty days from the date of the mailing of the mandate by the Grand Secretary he shall file a notice in writing with the Grand Secretary that he appeals to the Grand Lodge from such a ruling, determination or decision. If such mandate shall have been mailed more than thirty days before the first day of the next Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge, such appeal shall stand for hearing at such Annual Communication; otherwise it shall stand for hearing at the next ensuing Annual Communication of said Grand Lodge. If the party aggrieved give notice of his intention to appeal, and within thirty days from the date of mailing the mandate file his notice of appeal with the Grand Secretary, the sentence shall be stayed until the appeal has been heard. Upon receiving notice of the appeal the Grand Secretary shall transmit the case and all records thereof to the Chairman of the Committee on Jurisprudence. 150. Appeal—Action by Grand Lodge.—Upon appeal the Grand Lodge iriay affirm or reverse the case, mitigate or set aside the punishment, dismiss the appeal, or remand the action for a new trial or for further consideration. If the case be affirmed or the appeal dismissed, the decision remains in full force. If the case be reversed the reason therefor shall be briefly stated, and the cause shall proceed as may be required by the Grand Lodge. If the Grand Lodge find the punishment to be inadequate or too severe, it shall proceed to fix the same and the Master of the Lodge shall pronounce sentence as ordered. Sec. 150 be amended to read as follows: 150. Appeal—Action by Grand Lodge.—Upon appeal the Grand Lodge may affirm or reverse the case, mitigate or set aside the punishment, dismiss the appeal, or remand the action for a new trial or for further consideration. If the case be affirmed or the appeal dismissed, the decision remains in full force. If the case be reversed, the reason therefor shall be briefly stated and the cause shall proceed as may be required by the Grand Lodge. If the Grand Lodge find the punishment to be inadequate or too severe, it shall proceed to fix the same, and the Master of the Lodge sliall pronounce sentence at the first Stated Communication following the receipt of the notice from the Grand Secretary setting forth the decision of the Grand Lodge, and the punishment becomes effective from the date of such notice from the Grand Secretary. APPEALS.
Your committee has had under consideration various appeals and makes the following report: In the appeal of Mankato Lodge No. 87 vs. JAMES E . MANUEL; we recommend that the decision be affirmed.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
775
In the appeal of Hesperian Lodge ISTo. H I of Rossville vs. LEON E . DANN; we recommend that the decision be affirmed. In the appeals of A. E. BELCHER and CHARLES R . ROSS of Rose-
dale Lodge No. 333 from conviction by the Commission; we recommend that the decision of the Commission be approved. In the case of Tyrian Lodge No. 246 vs. CHARLES S. FINELLO; we recommend that the conviction be affirmed. In the appeal of CARL W . HAMILTON from the action of the Commission on the accusation of Newton Lodge No. 124; we recommend that the action of the Commission be affirmed. Appeal of Marysville Lodge No. 91 from the acquittal of JOHN E . RILEY. Your committee have carefully examined the record in this case and recommend that the decision of the Trial Commission be set aside and the case remanded for further hearing. Appeal of Marysville Lodge No. 91 from the decision in favor of GEORGE T . MOHRBACHER. Your committee have given very careful consideration to the record in this case and recommend that the action of the Trial Commission be set aside on each count and the whole cause remanded for further hearing. Appeal of EDGAR R . FULTON from the decision of the Trial Commission's sentence of guilty in the case of Marysville Lodge No. 91. Your committee having given the above appeal careful consideration are unable to find any just reason for changing the finding of guilty of the Trial Commission, and therefore recommend that the same be approved. ILLEGAL SUSPENSIONS.
Your committee has had under consideration a portion of the address of the Grand Master contained under the above heading, and we recommend the ratification of the action of the Grand Master in that regard. ILLEGAL BALLOT.
Your committee has had under consideration under the above heading, three decisions made by the Grand Master as follows: Minneapolis Lodge No. 143 balloted upon a petitioner for the Mysteries of Masonry after having lost jurisdiction over the petitioner by reason of his removal from the state, held: " T h a t election was illegal and directed that the fee be returned to the petitioner." We recommend the approval of the action of the Grand Master upon this question. Brainerd Lodge No. 280, at Whitewater, balloted upon a petitioner at an adjourned meeting, held: " T h a t the balloting was illegal, that petition be again referred to an investigating committee and take the course of an original petition." Your committee recommends that the action of the Grand Master upon that subject be affirmed.
776
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Ballot was taken on petition for the Mysteries of Masonry in Wakarusa Lodge No. 402, and result was unfavorable on account of one negative ballot. Another ballot was ordered, resulting favorably, but count showed all present had not cast ballot. Third ballot was taken and reported not clear, and petitioner declared rejected, held: " T h a t petitioner was elected on second ballot and that third ballot was illegal." Your committee recommends that the action of the Grand Master be affirmed. JURISDICTION.
Under the above heading the Grand Master reports that on August 16, 1926, information was received through the Grand Secretary's office that Wichita Lodge No. 99 had received an incomplete petition for the Mysteries of Masonry, and conferred the Entered Apprentice Degree upon ELMER E . BENTZ, whose place of residence was in doubt. In view of a claim of original jurisdiction and an objection from Tyrone Lodge No. 361, of Tyrone, Oklahoma, an order was issued denying further advancement to Brother BENTZ. your committee recommends the approval of the above action of the Grand Master. Hope Lodge No. 155, of Howard, received the petition of THEODORE R. PLATZ, a legal resident of Emporia, thus being guilty of invasion of jurisdiction, and an order was issued to Hope Lodge No. 155 to remit the initiation fee to the Secretary of Emporia Lodge No. 12, the membership of the petitioner to remain in Hope Lodge No. 155. Your committee recommends approval of the action of the Grand Master. DISCIPLINE.
Your committee has had under consideration the action of the Grand Master with regard to Rosedale Lodge No. 333 in administering a reprimand for the action of said lodge for the failure to convict A. E. BELCHER, a member of said lodge, and we recommend the approval of the action of the Grand Master. We further recommend the approval of the action of the Grand Master in the case of the appeal of WALTER W . SCOTT from the sentence of Long Island Lodge No. 231, and further recommend the approval of the action of the Grand Master in correcting the error in the report of the Jurisprudence Committee at the last Annual Communication on the appeal of R U E A. THOMAS of Mulvane Lodge No. 201. REVOCATION OF CHARTER OP BRAINERD LODGE NO. 2 8 0 , WHITEWATER.
We have given special attention to the action of the Grand Master relative to Brainerd Lodge No. 280, of Whitewater, and we heartily approve of the order of suspension issued by him as to that lodge. We further recommend that the charter of said lodge be revoked.
192G-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
777
. BONDING LODGE TREASURERS AND SECRETARIES.
Your committee recommends that the above subject, which is one that has engaged the attention of this body on different occasions, be referred to the incoming Grand Master, who, with the other members of the Council of Administration, shall have power to take such action as they may deem best. Fraternally submitted, ELRICK C . COLE, JOHN MCCULLAGH,
OTTO R . SOUDERS, JOHN M . KINKEL,
Committee. ELECTION OF OFFICERS.
The hour having arrived for the election of Grand Officers, the M.'. W.'. Grand Master announced the following tellers: JOHN R . FORBES, N O . 113; PAUL B . HOFFMANN, No. 343; ROY G . SHEARER, N O . 98; B E N JAMIN H. FLYR, NO. 253; VICTOR H . B . NORDLUND, No. 60; STANFORD M . SMART, N O . 378; JOHN S. RIGG, No. 140; JAMES H . TRICE, NO. 77; GLENN A. FREEMAN, No. 38; EDWARD V. GORRELL, NO. 187; ERNEST C . FRIESEN, N O . 445; HAROLD N . NICHOLS, N O . 271.
The election resulted in the selection of the following officers: R.-.W.'.CHARLES N . FOWLER R.-.W.-. FERRIS M . HILL R.-.W.-. GEORGE F . BEEZLEY W.'.JAY B . KIRK R.-.W.'. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH R.-.W.'. ALBERT K . WILSON
Grand Master Deputy Grand Master... Grand Senior Warden GrandJunior Warden ..Grand Treasurer Grand Secretary
SaUna. Emporia. Girard. lola. Lawrence. Topeka.
PLACE OF M E E T I N G FOR 1928.
The Masters of the four Topeka Lodges, W.'. Brothers PERCY LOWE R E E D , NO. 17, CHESTER L . WOODINGTON, No. 51, CLARENCE E . MAUNEY, N O . 90, and SIDNEY S. JANES, N O . 225, extended a cordial invitation to the
M.'. W.\ Grand Lodge to hold the next Annual Communication at Topeka. On motion the invitation was accepted.
778
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
PRESENTATION OF JEWEL.
W.-. JOSEPH D . FELL, on behalf of St. John's Lodge No. 113, Concordia, the home lodge of the Grand Master, presented M.-.W.-. JOHN W . NEILSON with a beautiful Past Grand Master's jewel. REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON FINANCE AND P R O P E R T Y .
W.-. EARL T . PYLE, chairman, submitted the following report, which, on his motion, was adopted: To the M.: W.: Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: To this committee was referred that part of our Grand Master's address relating to Florida Relief, Grand Lodge Relief, Appropriations by the Council of Administration, and Recommendations; the Grand Treasurer's Report; and that part of the Grand Secretary's Report referring to Binding Volume XX, Additional Museum Cases, Steel Filing Cases, Painting of the Basement in the Grand Lodge Building, Estimated Revenue and Expenses, and all financial exhibits showing receipts and payments to the Grand Treasurer. The comrnittee heartily approves the action of the Grand Master in extending relief to our Florida brethren, also his action in subscribing to the relief of Brother WILLIAM F . KEAGER, a member of Magnolia Lodge No. 20 of Columbus, Ohio. APPROPRIATIONS BY THE COUNCIL OP ADMINISTRATION.
Your committee approves the action of the Council of Administration in appropriating funds to cover expenses of the Trial Commission, the purchase and erection of the Smith-Vanderslice monument at Highland, the purchase of steel equipment for the Masonic Library in Topeka, and the painting of the basement and the northwest room of the Grand Lodge Office Building in Topeka. The committee has included in its recommendations an appropriation to defray expenses of the Trial Commission for the current year. It is suggested that payments from this fund be covered by warrants issued in the usual manner. RECOMMENDATIONS.
The committee heartily approves the Grand Master's recommendation that $52,000.00 of our U. S. Fourth Liberty Loan Bonds be transferred to the Endowment Fund of the Kansas Masonic Home, and recommends that the transfer be arranged on April 15, 1927. Interest due- on that date to be collected by the Grand Lodge and accounted for through its General Fund in the usual manner.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
779
Your committee approves the recommendation of the M.'.W.v Grand Master, that the Contingent Fund of the Grand Master be increased from one thousand to fifteen hundred dollars ($1,500.00). BINDING VOLUME XX.
An appropriation of $1,200.00 is recommended to cover the cost of binding Volume X X . The committee has made an examination and audit of the Grand Lodge accounts and find all funds properly accounted for except an amount of $150.00 transferred to the Charity Fund from the General Fund,4ue to an oversight in including $1,500.00 received in payment of Bond 14, School District No. 79, Greenwood County, and Bonds 15 and 16, Spring Township, Harper County, in the total used in arriving at the amount to be transferred from the General to the Charity Fund. This will be adjusted in the current year's accounts. The Grand Treasurer has on hand, forty-one thousand six hundreds fourteen dollars and five cents ($41,614.05). The amount is on deposit: in the Merchants National Bank of Lawrence, Kansas, to the credit of WILLIAM FRANK MARCH, Grand Treasurer, A. F. & A. M., as shown
by the records of the Bank, and certified to by V. K. HoovBR, President, under the seal of the Bank. The certificate of deposit is attached hereto, made a part of this report and reads as follows: MERCHANTS NATIONAL BANK LAWRENCE, KANSAS, February 1, 1927.
This is to certify that there is in this bank today, to the credit of W. F. MARCH, Grand Treasurer, A. F. & A. M., the sum of forty-one thousand six hundred fourteen dollars and five cents ($41,614.05). (Signed)
V. K. HOOVER
(Seal) President. The committee notes with regret that two lodges failed to make remittances within the time prescribed by law, and are denied representation in the Grand Lodge. BONDS.
Bonds amounting to sixty-one thousand two hundred dollars ($61,200.00) with all unmatured interest coupons attached are in the hands of the Grand Treasurer, and were inspected by the committee. A recapitulation of the bond account is as follows: Bonds on hand at the close of 1925 accounts $ 62,700 00 Bond No. 14, School District No. 79, Greenwood County, paid in 1926 $ 500 00 Bonds 15 and 16, Spring Township, Harper County, paid in 1926 1,000 00 Bonds in the hands of the Grand Treasurer at the close of 1926 accounts 61,200 00 $62,700 00 Interest amounting to $2,707.50 accrued on the bond investment and $433'.76 on daily balances, was collected and properly accounted for.
780
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
DISPENSATIONS.
Seventy-seven Special Dispensations were issued during the year; two dispensations were issued to establish new lodges at Chapman and Grinnell. Revenue from dispensations, 1926 $225 00 Revenue from two dispensations issued by Grand Master LouCKS after close of 1925 accounts 10 00 Total revenue from dispensations $235 00 REVENUE AND EXPENSES.
Revenue. The estimated revenue from all sources for the ensuing year is $44,402 00 Expenses. The expenses for which we recommend appropriations at this Communication are as follows: Assistant to Grand Secretary $ 3,600 00 Binding Volume XX, Annual Proceedings 1,200 00 Committee allowance (By-Law 49) 150 00 Expenses Grand Lodge Communication 600 00 Expenses and per diem of Lecturer 2,000 00 Expenses of Trial Commission 1,500 00 Grand Secretary's incidentals 1,500 00 Grand Treasurer's bond premium 87 50 Grand Secretary's bond premium 10 00 Grand Master's contingent fund 1,500 00 <5rand Master's salary 800 00 Grand Treasurer's salary 100 00 Grand Secretary's salary 1,800 00 Grand Secretary's honorarium 1,200 00 Grand Master's apron 61 50 Grand Officers' portraits 50 00 Historical Registry and Abstract 300 00 -Library, furniture, binding, etc 1,000 00 -Mileage to representatives (By-Law 51) 3,273 68 Mileage and expenses (By-Laws 49 and 50) 1,577 19 Minor salaries (By-Law 48) 150 00 Office and Library Building 3,000 00 Printing Annual Proceedings 3,500 00 Postage and express 1,000 00 Private Secretary to Grand Master 600 00 Salary Chairman Committee on Correspondence (By-Law49) 300 00 Special Appropriation Council of Administration, 500 member's aprons, Grand Lodge 500 00 Stationery and printing 1,000 00 Stenographic and clerical help 3,000 00 Taxes 2,500 00
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
781
PROPERTY.
The property of the Grand Lodge is being maintained in excellent •condition under the personal supervision of our Grand Secretary. Fraternally submitted, EARL T . PYLE, HOMER B . FINK, MOSES H . COLE,
LUCIAN L . CONSTANT, RICHARD H . CRAVENS, Committee.
INSTALLATION.
M.-. W.-. ELMER F . STRAIN, assisted MCCULLAGH, as Grand Marshal, duly
by M.-. W.-. JOHN installed the fol-
lowing Grand Officers: M.-.W.-. CHARLES N . . FOWLER
Grand Master
Salina Lodge No. 60, Salina.
R.-. W.-. FERRIS M . HILL
Deputy Grand Master
Emporia Lodge No. 12, Emporia.
R.'. W.". GEORGE F . BEEZLEY
Grand Senior Warden
Girard Lodge No. 9.S, Girard.
R.'. W.". JAY B . KIRK
Grand Junior Warden lola Lodge No. 38. lola.
R.-. W.-. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH
Grand Treasurer
Acacia Lodge No. 9, Lawrence.
R.'. W.'. ALBERT K . WILSON
Grand Secretary
Orient Lodge No. .51. Topeka.
The M.-. W.'. Grand Master announced the following appointive Grand Officers: Bro. and Rev. JOHN WESLEY BATES
Grand Chaplain
BrookviUe Lodge No. 209, (residence, Salina).
W.'. JOHN M . KINKEL
Grand Senior Deacon
Reno Lodge No. 140, (residence, Topeka).
. W.-. PERRY E . MILLER
Grand Junior Deacon
Wellington Lodge No. 150, Wellington.
W.'. ROBERT LENON
Grand Marshal.
Goodland Lodge No. 321, (residence, Salina).
*W.-. WILLIAM E . CAIN
Grand Sword Bearer
Perry Lodge No. 415. Perry.
W.'. LAUREN D . RIGG
Grand Senior Steward
Joppa Lodge No. 223, Leon.
W.-, R. NELSON LONG
Grand Junior Steward
Hoxie Lodge No. 348, Hoxie.
W.\ HOMER T. HARDEN
Grand Pursuivant
Wichita Lodge No. 99, Wicbita.
W.". W. AMER BURNETT
Grand Tyler
Mountain Slope Lodge No. 186, Oberlin. *Not present at time of Installation and therefore not installed.
782
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
i-ebruary.
STANDING COMMITTEES.
The M.-. W.-. Grand Master announced the appointment of the following committees for the ensuing year: On Credentials.—ROBERT H . MONTGOMERY, N O . 63, Oswego; PHILIP EUGENE STOTLER, NO. 3 (residence, R. F . D. No. 2, Bethel); RICHARD W . EVANS, NO. 222, Dodge City; ROY G . SHEARER, NO. 98, Abilene; GUY W . BROWN, NO. 145, Beloit. On Reports of Grand Officers.—ELMER F . STRAIN, N O . 51, Topeka; JOHN W . NEILSON, N O . 113, Concordia;
FRANK E . DAVIS, N O . 5
(residence, Kansas City, Mo.); HERBERT R . HULL, N O . 175, Kirwin; LUCIAN L . CONSTANT, -NO. 173, Belle Plalne. On Finance and Property.—EARL T . FYLE, NO. 134, Clay Center; MOSES H . COLE, N O . 206, Harper;
RICHARD H . CRAVENS, N O . 60,
Salina; HENRY S. BUZICK, J R . , NO. 359, Sylvan Grove; HERBERT E . JuLiEN, No. 19, Olathe. On Jurisprudence.—ELRICK C . COLE, N O . 15, Great Bend; JOHN MCCULLAGH, N O . 194, Galena; OTTO R . SOUDERS, N O . 99, Wichita; GEORGE O . FOSTER, N O . 6, Lawrence; CLAUDE O . CONKEY, N O . 142,
Newton. On Chartered Lodges and Lodges U. D.—ELLSWORTH B . SEWELL, JR., N O . 51, Topeka; JOHN DAVIS, N O . 129, Belleville; HAROLD T . ENGLISH, NO. 445, Hutchinson. On Correspondence.—ALBERT K . WILSON, N O . 51, Topeka. On Necrology.—FRANCIS
M . PEARL, NO. 35, Hiawatha.
SPECIAL COMMITTEES. On Revision of Laws.—ALBERT K . WILSON, N O . 51, Topeka; ELRICK C . COLE, No. 15, Great Bend. On History of Grand Lodge.—ALBERT K . WILSON, NO. 51, Topeka.
COMMISSIONERS OF TRIALS. JAMES A. CASSLER, N O . 172, McPherson; RICHARD E . BIRD, No.
303, Wichita; FRANK D . SPERRY, N O . 146, Ellsworth; J. FORREST AYRES, NO. 232, Greenleaf; FERRIS M . HILL, NO. 12, Emporia.
1920-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
783
VOTE OF THANKS.
M.-. W.-. ELRICK C . COLE, moved that a vote of thanks be extended the brethren of Wichita for the courtesies shown. Motion was adopted.
READING OF JOURNAL. The journal was then read by Brother LEON L . CouSLAND, Patmos Lodge No. 97, official stenographer, and approved. CLOSING CEREMONIES.
The M.-.W.-. Grand Master then closed the M.'.W.-. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas in Amole Form.
/
Grand Master.
ATTEST:
Grand Secretary.
j
~ez~anlne
Floor.
LIBRARY AN D MUSEUM.
View on SCC911d or
784
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
MASONIC DISTRICTS, AND LIST OF DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTERS FOR 1927.
District District District Distri ct
No. No. No. No.
1 2 3 4
Distr: ct No. 5 Distri ct No. 6 Distri ct N o . 7 Distri ct No. 8 Distri ct N o . 9 Distr: ct N o . 10 Distr: ct No. 11 Distri ct N o . 12 Distri ct No. 13 Distri ct No. 14 Distr ct No. 15 Distr: ct N o . 16 Distr: ct N o . 17 Distr: ct No. 18 Distr: ct No. 19 Distr: ct No. 20 Distri ct No. 21 Distri ct No. 22 Distr ct No. 23 Distr: ct No. 24 Distr ct No. 25 District No. 26 Distri ct No. 27 Distr ct No. 28 Distri ct No. 29 Distr ct No. 30 Distr ct No. 31 Distr ct No. 32 Distr ct No. 33 Distr ct No. 34 Distri ct No. 35 Distri ct No. 36 Distri ct No. 37 Distr ct No. 38 Distr ct No. 39..... Distri ct No. 40 Distri ct No. 41
PAUL M . MARTIN RAYMOND A. NBVIN BENJAMIN P. H E I S *THOMAS B . W E B B
Highland Hiawatha Leavenworth Kansas City
HERBERT E . JULIEN CLAUDE C . PATTERSON....: CHARLES F . TEINKLE
Olathe Osawatomie LaCygne
FRED R:OY ALFORD EDGAR T . FOSTER JOHN F . WYATT A. P H I L L I P LAPHAM SAMUEL W . CONNOR CLARENCE E . BIRCH
JAY B . BENNETT JAMES A. CAMPBELL EDWIN C . EAGLES ENOCH E . BROOKS L E W I S W . DAVIS WALDEMAR V. R I E S E N JAMES M . LAYTON •...*JAMES NELSON GEORGE BURNS GLICK FOCKELE JAMES H . BEEGLE JA'MES W . MCCOLLOCH
EMIL KRATOCHVIL WILLIAM B . PENNY HIRAM A. GILMORE IVAN E . GENTRY... JESSE GUY BACHELOR
ROY H . W I S E RICHARD H . CRAVENS
JAMES T . GRiFFiNGi WILLIAM H . ANDERSON RAPHAEL A. COOK
*ELDON J. CouLSON HENRY L . GAMES DAVID A. NYWALL
OLIVER E . MURDICK BYRON W . OLIVER JOHN S . RIGG
Fort Scott ."
Colony Galena Wetmore Atchison Lawrence
Circleville Humboldt Thayer Peru Elk City Marysville Irving Topeka Carbondale LeRoy Neodesha Manhattan
Clay Center Cottonwood Falls Howard Winfield Cuba
Plainville Salina
McPherson Rosalia Newton
Wichita Conway Springs Formoso
Tescott Herington Hutchinson
1926-27.
Distr: ct Distr: ct Distr: ct Distr ct Distr! ct Distri ct Distr; ct Distr: ct Distri ct Distri ct Distri ct Distr: ct Distri ct Distri ct Distri ct District Distri ct Distri ct Distr: ct Distri ct Distri ct Distr ct Distr ct Distr: ct Distri ct Distr ct Distr: ct Distr ct Distri ct Distr: ct Distr ct Distr: ct Distr: ct Distr ct Distr ct
GRAND No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No.
42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
785
WILBUR M . BENEFIBL LEWIS G . JENNINGS JOHN J. RECHT JOSEPH E . BREAKEY WILLIAM E . DILLINGER CLARE C . CAVIN RALPH C . STEINER JAMES T . FOWLER
Kingman Anthony Norton Downs WaKeeney LaCrosse Lyons Arcadia
No. 50
RoscoE E. PETERSON
No. 51 No. 52 No. 53
BENJAMIN H ; FLYR JOSEPH C . HART.. CLARENCE M . CROSBY
Oakley Lakin St. Francis
No. 54 No. 55
DAVID C . KAY GUY R . CURRIER
Morland Kensington
No. 56
JAMES G . BENNETT
No. 57
CLARENCE G . NEVINS
No. 58
GILBERT C . LENZ
No. 59 No. 60
JOHN B . FLEMING BARLUS ROMSTBDT
Larned
Haviland
Dodge City Scott City Hamilton Ottawa
No. 61
GEORGE R . THOMASON
Council Grove
No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No.
HARVEY B . BRENEMAN ELMER S. NANCE CLEVELAND T . MARTIN BERT WILLIAMS ELMER E . MEYER GEORGE H . MOSS PAUL B . HOFFMANN J. LAWTON STANLEY
Macksville Oswego Meriden Havensville Linn Miltonvale Holyrood Coldwater
62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69
No. 70
IRA SCOTT
No. 71
THOMAS V. SLOAN
No. 72
*C0LLiNS A. ZIMMERMAN
No. 73 No. 74
No. 75 No. 76
CHARLES H . ZINN PRESSLEY M . FINER
JAMES H . TRICE.: *DEAN E . DAVIS
SPECIAL ADDRESSES.
No. 4 21 36 72 76
*Postoffice Addresses. 1125 Cleveland Ave. 1159 College Ave. 1431 Otis Ave. 825 N. Jackson St. 1902 W. 47th St. Terrace.
Meade Selden
Topeka ...Eskridge Satanta
Medicine Lodge Kansas City
786
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
LIST OF DISTRICTS. DiSTHICT No 1. Location. Name. White Cloud White Clo>id Highland Smithton Troy Troy Wathena Wathena Severance.. Severance Bendena Bendena DISTRICT No.
Hiawatha Hamlin Morrill Powhattan Horton Sabetha Kobinson
DISTRICT N O .
No. 78 1 55 64 313 440
2.
Hiawatha Hamlin Morrill Powhattan Horcon Sabetha Robinson
35 185 373 363 326 162 159
DISTRICT N O . 3.
Leavenworth Leavenworth .... 2 Leavenworth King Solomon.... 10 Leavenworth Hiram 68 Ft. Leavenworth ..Hancock 311 Lansing Nine Mile 49 Boling Boling 365 Easton Easton 45 DISTRICT No.
4.
Kansas City Wyandotte 3 Kansas City Armourdale 271 Kansas City Kaw 272 Kansas City *R. B. Sherman..369 Kansas City West Gate .438 Bonner Springs Bonner Springs 366 White Church Delaware 96 Piper Piper 385 *Eoger E. Sherman. DISTRICT No.
Olathe Gardner Edgerton Lenexa Spring Hill Stanley
DISTRICT N O .
Loulsburg Paola Osawatomie Fontana
5.
Olathe Gardner Palestine Lenexa Spring Hill.. Stanley
.. 19 .. 65 ..127 ..135 .. 56 ..444
6.
Peace Paola Osage Valley Equity
243 37 24 131
Location. Garland Fort Scott Devon Hiattville Hepler Fulton Mapleton Uniontown Bronson
LaCygne Eureka Mound City Lotus Xenla Parker
liane : 339 Greeley 211 Delphian 44 Avon.. 305 Olive Branch ....212 Kincaid 338 Richmond 426
DISTRICT N O .
Scammon Columbus Galena Ba.xter Springs Weir
10.
Scainmon 351 Prudence 100 Galena ...194 Baxter 71 Black Diamond 274
DISTRICT N O . 11.
Wliiting Netawaka Wetmore Centralia Corning Goff
Whiting i'olar Star Wetmore Home Nemaha Gofl DISTRICT N O .
Doniphan Effingham Muscotah Atchison Atchison Huron Potter
250 130 53 89 13 430
12.
Arcana Mackey Muscotah .Washington Active Hiu'on Kickapoo
3) 48 116 5 158 72 4
DISTRICT N O . 13.
Lawrence Lawrence De Soto Linwood Eudora Baldwin Tonganoxie Perry Lecompton
Lawrence Acacia De Soto Lin wood Doric Palmyra Henri Perry Lecompton
DISTRICT N O .
61 88 33 286 47 341
No. 108 8 92 216 398 210 28 .115 268
DISTRICT N O . 9.
Lane Greeley Garnett Westphalia Colony Kincaid Richmond
DISTRICT N O . 7.
LaCygne Pleasanton Mound City Blue Mound Xenla Parker
8.
Name. Memphis Rising Stm Devon... Hiattville Hepler Fulton Eldora Excelsior Bourbon
Circleville Holton Soldier Mayetta Hoyt Denison
6 9 40 241 83 23 190 415 420
14.
Circleville Holton Soldier Mayetta Hoyt Denison
20 42 240 393 327 372
GRAND
1926-27.
DISTRICT N O .
Location. Moran La Harpe lola Humboldt 8avonburg Erie Urbana Chanute Chanute Tliayer
DISTRICT N O .
Sedan Elgin Cedar Vale Edna Coffey ville Caney Tyro Independence Cherryvale Elk City
DISTRICT N O .
Marysvllle Oketo Seattle Summerfleld Axtell Seneca.. Oneida
136 350 355 ..345 ..102 ..324 ..386 107 137 132
19.
Marysville Oketo Seattle Summerfleld Axtell Seneca Oneida
DISTRICT N O .
Watervllle Blue Kaplds Irving Frankfort Vermillion
76 239 103 416 149
18.
Edna Keystone.. Caney Tyro Fortitude Cherryvale Carson
91 25 259 354 234 39 323
20.
Sutton Blue Rapids Blue Valley Frankfort Vermillion
85 169 112 67 320
DISTRICT N O . 21.
Topeka Topeka Topeka Auburn Dover Wakarusa Maple HiU
Topeka Orient Siloam Auburn Dover Wakarusa.. Maple Hill
DISTRICT N O .
Lyndon Osage City Burlingame Carbondale Overbrook Scranton
Location. Yates Center Neosho Falls Le Roy Gridley Burlington
.. 17 .. 51 ..225 .. 32 ..138 ..402 370
Fredonia New Albany Fall River Coy ville Neodesha Altoona Benedict Buffalo.
25.
DISTRICT No.
DISTRICT N O .
DISTRICT N O .
Republic Scandia Belleville Narka Cuba Munden
12 109 193 395 80 152 335
28.
Hope Meridian Longton Moline Canopy
Winfleld Burden Dexter Maple City Arkansas City
122 134 296 334 396
27.
Emporia Emporia Americus Americus Hartford Hartford ; SaftordvlUe Saflord ville Cottonwood Falls..Zeredatha Lebo Lebo Allen. Allen Howard Elk Falls Longton Moline Grenola
235 75 . 16 344 166
26.
Clifton Clay Center Highland Oak Hill Vi^akefield
155 126 26 267 248
29.
Winfleld Clinton Dexter ..Maple City Crescent
DISTRICT N O .
101 141 79 70 62 407
24.
Garfield Wamego Lafayette Ashlar Farmers
DISTRICT No.
Clifton Clay Center Green Oak Hill Wakefield
No. 144 82 27 314 66
Constellation.... 95 New Albany 81 Greenwood 163 Coyville ; 57 Harmony 94 Altoona .-..118 Benedict 403 Buffalo 379
DISTRICT N O .
Leonard ville Wamego Manhattan Riley Randolph
22.
EucUd Signal Corinthian Carbondale Ridgeway Scranton
Name. Gilead Tuscan Neosho Hebron Burlington
DISTRICT No.
17.
Vesper Olive Chautauqua
DISTRICT N O .
DISTRICT N O . 23.
No. 245 325 38 29 315
16.
Erie Urbana Cedar King David Thayer
787
KANSAS.
15.
Name. Marmaton La Harpe lola Pacific Virginia
DISTRICT N O .
LODGE OF
110 233 156 342 133
30.
Republic Lebanon BellevlUe Narka Cuba Munden
123 221 129 349 362 128
788
PROCEEDINGS
OF
THE
DISTRICT NO. 31.
Location. Lincoln Sylvan Grove Lucas Luray Natoma Plainvllle Codell
DISTRICT N O . 37.
Name. No. Lincoln 154 Sylvan Grove....359 Blue Hill 198 Luray 153 Natoma 390 Paradise 290 Codell 418
DISTRICT N O .
Abilene Bennington Chapman Enterprise Junction City Salina Solomon
LocaHon. Name. Belle Plaine Belle Plaine WeUlngton Wellington South Haven Haven Oxford Oxford Caldwell Sumner Milan Milan Conway Springs....Mistletoe Argonia Argonia
32.
DISTRICT N O .
Benevolent 98 Bennington 180 Antiquity 280 Enterprise 437 Union 7 Salina 60 Solomon City..105
Canton Galva McPherson Windom Lindsborg Moundridge Marquette
Randall Jewell Mankato Burr Oak Formoso Esbon Lebanon
197 251 172 276 397 346 353
Minneapolis Barnard Delphos Glasco Simpson Beloit Scottsville
Augusta Beaumont.... Douglass Leon El Dorado Towanda Rosalia Latham
Mystic Tie Beaumont Douglass Joppa Patmos Towanda Rosalia Latham
DISTRICT No.
Newton Halstead Peabody Florence Burrton
34.
35.
Newton Halstead ......Halcyon Advance Burrton DISTPICT No.
Wichita Wichita Wichita Wichita Mulvane Clearwater Valley Center Cheney Mount Hope Sedgwick
74 439 151 223 97 30 434 401
142 46 120 114 182
36.
Sunflower 86 Wichita 99 Albert Pike 303 BestorG.Brown 433 Mulvane 201 Unity 273 Valley Center....364 Morton 258 Mount Hope 238 Sedgwick 139
Gypsum Herington Delavan Hope White City Marion Burdick
143 59 202 292 214 145 249
40.
Gypsum City...328 Kansas 307 Delavan 375 Cyrus 288 White City 380 Center 147 Burdick 429
DISTRICT No.
Arlington Turon Hutchinson Hutchinson Haven Nickerson Cunningham
304 11 87 178 336 228 287
39.
Minneapolis Saltville Delphos Glasco Sincerity Mt. Vernon Scottsville
DISTRICT No. DISTRICT No.
No. 173 150 157 165 203 255 269 285
38.
Randall Jewell Mankato Burr Oak Formoso Salem Oak DISTRICT No.
DISTRICT N O . 33.
.Canton Galva McPherson Wlndom Lindsborg Moundridge Marquette
February
41. .
Cable Turon Reno Hutchinson Friendship Nickerson Cunningham
299 358 140 445 208 43 427
DISTRICT N O . 42.
Kingman Norwich Spivey Zenda Pretty Prairie
Ninnescah 230 Norwich 319 Spivey 347 Zenda 378 Pretty Prairie...428
DISTRICT No.
Anthony Harper Attica Waldron Freeport Bluff City
43.
Anthony Harper Attica Waldron Freeport Stohrville
200 206 262 377 389 368
GRAND
1926-27.
DISTRICT N O .
Location. Almena Long Island Norton Norcatur Oberlln Jennings Lenora
No.
DISTRICT N O .
Russell Hays Ellis B u n k e r Hill Wa-Keeney
47.
48.
Geneseo 361 Frederick 337 C o r n e r S t o n e ....219 Alden 308 Sterling 171 Royal 192 Chase 247
DISTRICT N O .
Glrard Cherokee Pittsburg Mulberry Arcadia Anna Walnut Farlington
DISTRICT N O .
DISTRICT N O .
15 167 217 331 424
Dighton Scott City Leoti Horace
56.
283 222 388 413 282 431 447
58.
Barney Anthem Leoti Horace DISTRICT N O .
293 265 332 376 399 409 394
57.
Preston St. B e r n a r d Spearville Ensign Alpha Minneola Klngsdown
DISTRICT N O .
Eureka Madison Severy Hamilton Climax Toronto..
.....281 348 414
55.
Kiowa Kilwinning Rob Morris G r a n d View Mullinville Haviland Coats
DISTRICT N O .
Cimarron Dodge City SpearviUe Ensign Jetmore Minneola Klngsdown
51.
54.
Gaylord 183 Kirwln 175 Logan 264 Western S t a r . . . . 1 7 4 Phillipsburg 184 Kensington 40.'>
DISTRICT N O .
Greensburg Pratt Preston Bucklin Mullinville Haviland Coats
93 119 187 261 329 408 229 124
Oakley 253 Wallace 318 Gove C i t y 302 Grainfleld 381 Grinnell 448 Quinter 410 Sharon Springs..417
53.
Millbrook Hoxie Morland
Gaylord Kirwln Logan S m i t h Center Phillipsburg Kensington
No. 316 309 289 240 432
Atwood 164 McDonald 383 Saint F r a n c i s ...404
DISTRICT N O .
Hill City Hoxie Morland
52.
Name. Coolidge Syracuse.... Emerald..' Tyrlan Deerfleld
DISTRICT N O .
Atwood McDonald Saint Francis
50.
Great Bend Larned Bllinwood Hoisington Claflin
DISTRICT No.
Oakley Wallace Gove Grainfleld GrinneU Quinter Sharon Springs
Location. Coolidge Syracuse Lakln Garden City Deerfleld
,49.
Girard Cherokee Pittsburg Mulberry Arcadia Arma Vulcan Godfrey
Great Bend Lamed Ellinwood Hoisington Claflin
177 195 297 291 148
L a Crosse 330 McCracken 58 Walnut City 215 W a l n u t Valley ..191
DISTRICT N O .
Geneseo Frederick Little R i v e r Alden Sterling Lyons Chase
294 125 204 160 207 189
46.
Russell Hays Apollo Beulah Wa-Keeney
DISTRICT N O .
L a Crosse McCracken Rush Center Ness City
DISTRICT N O .
No. 310 231 199 317 186 360 181
45.
Glen E l d e r C a w k e r City, Downs Saqui Occidental Newahcuba
789
KANSAS.
44.
Name. Naphtali Long Island Norton Norcatur M o u n t a i n Slope Jennings Lenora
DISTRICT
Glen Elder Cawker C i t y Downs Osborne Alton Stockton
LODGE OF
279 284 340 352
59.
Fidelity Madison Twin Grove Hamilton Climax Woodson
106 196 213 301 4H 121
790
PROCEEDINGS DISTRICT NO.
Location. Wells ville Ottawa Ottawa Pomona Melvem WlUlamsburg Waverly Quenemo
DISTRICT NO.
Oswego Altamont Chetopa Parsons M o u n d Valley McCune
14 21 84 236 256 266
65.
66.
Frontier Fraternal Dlrigo Greenleaf.
DISTRICT NO.
Concordia Clyde Jamestown M i l t o n vale
64.
104 170 226 232
67.
...St. J o h n ' s 113 Prairie Queen....l76 Jamestown 227 Miltonvale 242
68.
Name. Ellsworth Brookville Samaria Holyrood DISTRICT No.
Ashland Coldwater -Protection Wilmore
DISTRICT No.
Meade Liberal Plains
DISTRICT N O .
277 ;295 384 412
70.
Webb Fargo Plains
Colby Goodland Selden Kexford. f. Kanorado
No. 146 209 ......298 343
69.
Ashland Comanche Protection Wilmore
..275 .300 ..367 71.
St. T h o m a s Goodland Selden Rexford Kanorado
DISTRICT N O .
.. 63 .. 69 ,. 73 .117 218 237
Havensville 34 Onaga 188 Westmoreland .257 Emmett 387 Fostoria 392
DISTRICT NO.
Washington Linn Haddam Greenleaf.
220 252 254 371 391 179
Location. Ellsworth Brookville Wilson Hoiyrood
63.
Oskaloosa Valley Falls Jefferson Meriden Lyra M t . Zion
D I S T R I C T No.
Havensville Onaga Westmoreland Emmett Fostoria
62.
Adams Altamont.. Chetopa Parsons Landmark Temple
DISTRICT NO.
Oskaloosa Valley F a l l s Winchester Meriden McLouth Nortonville
61.
X^ewis Stafford Ionic Macksville Sylvia Mt. Moriah
February.
DISTRICT N O .
No. 356 18 400 41 22 224 244 270
Council G r o v e .. 36 Parkervllle 168 WUsey 382
D I S T R I C T No.
Lewis Stafford St. J o h n Macksville Sylvia Kinsley
60.
Name. 'Wellsvllle Ottawa Melody McKinley Melvem Anchor Waverly Quenemo
DISTRICT NO.
Council G r o v e Parkervliie Wllsey
OF THE
306 321 423 442 443
72.
Silver L a k e Lake 50 St. M a r y s P o t t a w a t o m i e . . . 52 T o p e k a ( N o r t h ) . . . . G o l d e n Rule 90 Ross ville Hesperian Ill Delia Delia 419 DISTRICT N O .
Alma Eskridgo Alta Vista Dwight..: Harveyville
DISTRICT N O .
Sublette Hugoton Elkhart Ulysses Jolinson.. Satanta
73.
Alma Eminence.. A l t a Vista.. Dwight Harveyville 74.
Santa Fe Hugoton Elkhart Ulysses Johnson S a t a n ta DISTRICT N O .
.161 ..205 .367 .374 421 312 406 422 435 441 446
75.
M e d i c i n e L o d g e ....Delta 77 Lake City M e d i c i n e Valley260 Hazelton Charity 263 Kiowa Cosmos 278 DISTRICT
Kansas City Kansas City Overland P a r k Shawnee Turner
No.
76.
Ben H u r 322 Bosedale 333 .Overland P a r k . . 4 3 6 Shawnee 54 Turner 425
STATISTICAL TABLES.
792.
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1926-27.
LODGE OF
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806
PROCEEDINGS
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1926-27.
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LODGE OF
KANSAS.
807
808
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
COMPLETE SUMMARY FOR 1926.
Number of lodges worldng under charter, 1926 Number of lodges chartered
447 2
Number of charters revoked, Brainerd No. 280..:
449 1
Number of lodges working under charter, 1927
448
Number members December 31, 1925 Increase. Number initiated Number passed Number raised Number admitted Number restored Number omitted last report Number members lodges U. D
80,174 3,530 3,337 3,385 858 151 228 43=4,665
Decrease. Number Number Number Number Number
dimitted died...: suspended expelled erroneously reported
Net gain Number members December 31, 1926
•.
1,036 927 689 19 3=2,674 1,991 82,165
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
809
EXPELLED, 1926. Great Bend Lodge No. 15.—FRED I. HOUSER, Feb. 12; CHARLES G . MORRISON, Sept. 18,1922; GEORGE B . NASH, Feb. 12; RICHARD S. TAYLOR, July 23. Osage Valley Lodge No. 24.—CHARLES S . BIXBY, May 7, 1925. Shawnee Lodge No. 54.^—LYNN M C D . BRUSH, Jan. 6.
Salina Lodge No. 60.—JACK C . C . SPRINGER, July 19. Hiram Lodge No. 68.—OTHO MELTON, Oct. 2 1 . Golden Rule Lodge No. 90.—RUDOLPH B . GAINES, Aug. 12. Marysville Lodge No. 91.—JOSEPH R . WASSER, Aug. 17. Hesperian Lodge No. H I . — W I L L I A M D . PENDLETON, Jan. 1. Wellington Lodge No. 150.—HARVEY A. WYNN, Sept. 26. Lebo Lodge No. 152.—BENTON A. MCCAULEY, NOV. 5. Dexter Lodge No. 156.—ARTHUR D . RADCLIPF, Feb. 2. Robinson Lodge No. 159.—FRANK A. BOMBECK, Dec. 11, 1925.
Brookville Lodge No. 209.—NILS E . ENGSTROM, June 5, 1925. Joppa Lodge No. 223.—CLAUDE E . JONES, Jan. 16. Long Island Lodge No. 231.—EMMETT E . BOWERS, July 15; WALTER W. SCOTT, Dec. 3, 1925.
Roger E . Sherman Lodge No. 369.—FRANK R . WAITLEY, Feb. 16. Claflin Lodge No. 424.—WILLIAM H . MACABE, Jan. 15.
SUSPENDED FOR UNMASONIC CONDUCT, 1926. Sutton Lodge No. 85.—GEORGE S. JEWELL, July 15.
Belle Plaine Lodge No. 173.—CHARLES B . LAMBE, July 21. Sumner Lodge No. 203.—WILLIAM M . FORD, NOV. 18. Anthem Lodge No. 284.—ALBERT R . EPPERSON, Jan. 6. Parker Lodge No. 341.—LESTER C . BROWNBACK, Valley Center Lodge No. 364.—WILLIAM HENNING, Dec. 6.
Protection Lodge No. 384.—FELIX C . LINDSEY, June 17.
23 59 71
310 69 357 207 118 109 200 329 285 133 299 408 277 5 158 262 164 32 74 234
98 308 335
No.
Baxter Springs..
Axtell
Arkansas City....
Allon .
Location.
Saitville
Axtell
Washington
Cable
Amerlcus
Alta Vista
Allen...
County.
Stated Communications.
Masters.
Cherokee
Douglas
Butler
Crawford Clark
Crawford
Wilson
'. Wabaunsee....
Dlcliinson Rice
Benjamin S. Baldwin Joseph D. Pettet
George H. Spillman
Edwin C. McCray. William Berry.
Floyd N. Cossman. William M. Tliistle. tCharles P. Brading. Marcellus W. Short. Silas R. Horton.
Roy G. Shearer. Raymond J. Engel. Frank J. St. Bennett. Jerry B..Fields. Orville C. Timmons. Scott Graham. John M. Hyde. Harry R. Markham. Elmer A. De Bolt. tNova H. Brown. Lewis G. Jennings. Michael Gutman. William R. Hanna. Charles L. Listen. Arthur B. Eliot.
Secretaries.
•Frank W. Kerns Hewlt Taylor. 1st and 3d Tuesday Monday on or before®.... Clemeth C. Abercrombie.. Thomas E. McCurry. Floyd L. Bumgarner let and 3d Monday Roy R. Peterson
1st and 3d Tuesday
*Thomas S. Brading 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Wednesday .... •Charles Foster
2d and 4th Thursday . 1st and 3d Monday
1st and 3d Wednesday .... Charles R. Gilliland
1st and 3d Tuesday
1st and 3d Saturday
Raymond B. Miller 1st and 3d Tuesday.,.. Frank C. Mills 1st and 3d Thursday........ ....... Fehx Itz Wabaunsee.... Norton Tully S. M. Wolf. 1st and 3d Tuesday
Name of Lodge.
NAMES OF LObGfiS, MASTERS AND SECRETARIES FOR THE YEAR ENDING DECEMBER 31,1927.
00
ft: ft
o
O 0)
tl
o
S3
o
103 416
355 89
203 324 197 70 125
209 376 379 291 233 429 79 66 178 182
366 268
365
169 368
259 439 173 129 145 440 403 180 286
Canton Carbondalo Cawker City Cedar Vale Centralla Chanute
Carbondaie Cawker City Chautauqua Home Cedar King David
Robert Clark. Charles E. Flautt. J. Walter Coons. George Kirkner. Claude W. Simpson. Edgar J. Clark. Howard F. Hightower. Guy S. Jeflers. William H. Powell.
Caldwell
1st and 3d Thursday Montgomery.. 2d and 4th Tuesday McPherson.... 1st and 3d Tuesday 2d and 4th Saturday Mitchell 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Chautauqua.. 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Wednesday.. 2d and 4tll MOPday ,.„„
Loy E. Viele Lionel G. Parsons Walter J. Linsomeyer.. Theodore O. Wehrle.... Albert F, Green Firman J. McCormick James O. Darr Cleo V. Dalton Charles C. Lacy
Roland S. Weaver. Charles S. Wilcox. William A. Crews. Harry C. Sleeper. Guy W. Brown. Jesse M. Clementson. Harry L. Orendorfl. George F. Watts. William J. Lewis. William W. Kendall. Albert D. Sparr. tMiles E. Baxter. William L. Biu-nam. Charles Meyer. Albert E. Halsey. Joseph F". McCarty. Alfred C. Stryker. Walter E. Hoke. Charles A. Truesdell. Hoyt B. Remy. Gerald A. Waddle. William M. Scott. Patrick H. O'Brien. John Swanson.
1st and 3d Wednesday .... Joseph C. Chase James C. Squier Belle Plaine Belle Plaine 1st and 3d Wednesday.... Earl F. Clark BeUeville Republic 1st and 3d Wednesday... Earl A. Weil Boloit Mt, Vernon 1st and 3d Monday Roy C. Baker Mitchell Doniplian. 2d and 4th Wednesday.. *Alton L. Dutton Benedict 1st and 3d Monday Alva F. Redmond Bennington Bennington 2d and last Wednesday.. Richard J. Arbutlmot. Blue Mound 2d and 4th Tuesday • Charles H. Boyd Blue Eapjds Blue Kapids Marshall 2d and 4th Monday C. Earl McAtce Bluff City *Clem Livengood 2d and 4th Tuesday Leavenworth.. 1st and 3d Saturday *William D. Kendell Bonner Springs.. Bonner Springs.. Wyandotte .... 1st and 3d Monday Howard L. Wright Wednesday or on bef. ®.. Robert B. Anderson.... Friday on or before ®.... Oscar F. Olson Buclilin Grand View Merton R. Anderson.... Ford 1st and 3d Thursday *Burr Knaus Buffalo Buffalo 1st and 3d Thursday Bunker Hill Boulah Frank H. Hoke 1st and 3d Thursday Burden William A. Brooks 1st and 3d Thursday Burdick Burdick William Atkinson 2d and 4th Tuesday Burlingame Corinthian 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Harry T. Beale Floyd S. Ecord Coffey 2d and 4th Monday Burlington Burr Oak 2d and 4th Tuesday Frank E. Stanton Burrton 1st and 3d Thursday *Herbert M. Grubbs
Marshall Butler
Co
Co
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o
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•b
57
316 13
176 394 418 102 306 295 212 100 113
134
137
No.
Claflin Clay Center Unity Clifton
iVome of Lodge.
Stated
Communications.
Clay
Bice Sedgwick
1st a n d 3d T u e s d a y
.
1st a n d 3d T u e s d a y . 1st a n d 3 d T u e s d a y 2d a n d 4 t h T u e s d a y M o n t g o m e r y . . 1st a n d 3d S a t u r d a y 3d T h u r s d a y 2d a n d 4 t h Wednesday.. 2d a n d 4 t h M o n d a y
County.
Charles W . Mitchell Rollyn J . Conderman W a l t e r C. B e a n J o s e p h C. Hill H e r m a n A. P r a e g e r
• C h e s t e r G. Hedges Elwood C. Yoder
Masters.
J o h n R. Senter 1st a n d 3d W e d n e s d a y .. Dale Barleen Clay 2d a n d 4 t h S a t u r d a y J o h n H . Lunsford Greenwood Climax Raymond Domino 1st a n d 3 d T h u r s d a y P r a i r i e Queen.... Cloud 1st a n d 3d M o n d a y *James P . Norrls Pratt 2d a n d 4 t h F r i d a y F l o y d L. D o u g h e r t y Codell Codell M o n t g o m e r y . . 1st a n d 3 d W e d n e s d a y .. Aurelius P . I r v i n St. T h o m a s Owen M . Osbourn 1st a n d 3d F r i d a y Comanche . 1st a n d 3d F r i d a y Herbert Henderson Anderson Olive B r a n c h John W. Hamilton 1st a n d 3d T u e s d a y , 1st a n d 3d M o n d a y . . Frederick B . Comer Cloud William Cline C o n w a y Springs H a r r y A. L a u b a c h 2d a n d 4 t h T u e s d a y Hamilton B r y a n J . Clemens... 1st a n d 3d S a t u r d a y C o t t o n ' d Falls . Council G r o v e . Council G r o v e . 1st a n d 3d W e d n e s d a y .. • A l b e r t E . E w i n g Wilson CoyviUe
Clay C e n t e r
Location.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Continued.
Ira M . Hassler. William G. H a x t o n . WiUlam C . Price. Hugh H. Barr. Ovid J. Goodwin. Sigmund Lehman. R e u b e n Sherwood. John T. Reutter. Merl J. Watson. F l o y d I . Shoaf. George G. Griffln. E d w a r d J . McQulUen. N a t h a n C. S m i t h . John F . Randolph. Arthur E. Horney. William R. Powell. Almon M . Baker. Ray H. Crumly. J. L a w t o n Stanley. O b a d i a h R . Stilwell. Orin O. Gordon. J o h n R. Forbes, H e n r y L. G a m e s . Joseph H . Conard. J o h n G. Robinson. William B . P e n n y . George R. T h o m a s o n . H o p s WlUoughby.
Secretaries.
*<
P
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O
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1^
Co O
t) fe! o
o
SI
^5
Leavenworth,. Saturday on or bef. ®=... Carl F. Hall Monday on or before ®. William A. Chaplin... Johnson *James C. McGee 1st and 3d Tuesday Labette J. Ralph Schurman... 1st and 3d Monday Atchison 1st and 3d Thursday.... Duane Fisk Butler Chautauqua . 1st and 3d Wednesday *Alva C. MuU Daniel S. Otey Montgomery. 2d and 4th Monday Lee Lindly 1st and 3d Friday Elk Bert R. Zimmerman. 1st and 3d Monday Morton •Leonard Held Last Wednesday Barton Ora H. Aldrich 1st and 3d Friday EUIs John W. Kincaid 1st and 3d Monday Ellsworth Pottawatomie] 1st and 3d Saturday .... Matthew M. Rezac ., Fred J. Brown Ist and 3d Friday Lyon 1st and 3d Thursday..., Benjamin L. Yoimg.. Gray
Easton Palestine.... Edna Mackey Patmos Olive Carson Meridian... Elkhart Ellinwood.. Apollo Ellsworth... Emmett Emporia Ensign
Easton Bdgerton.... Edna Efflngham.. El Dorado.. Elgin Elk City Elk FaUs.... Elkhart ElUnwood... ElUs Ellsworth... Emmett Emporia Ensign
45 127 345 48 97 350 132 126 422 217 297 146 387 12 413
2d and 4th Wednesday. Glen E. Steward *Elvin W. Stice 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Wednesday . Howard E. Houck Stewart V. Reynolds.. 1st and 3d Tuesday Silas W. Peterson 1st and 3d Tuesday W. Harvey Dent 1st and 3d Friday Saturday on or before ® •Ralph Hutcherson Ralph L. Daniel 1st and 3d Tuesday.... Harold B. Munson 1st and 3d Tuesday.... William C. Fay 1st and 3d Friday Saturday on or before ® *Frank Case Arthur W. Scott 1st and 3d Saturday . Edward S. Riley 2d Thursday Nathan F. Winters.... 1st and 3d Friday Karl S. Day 1st and 3d Thursday.
Kearny Morris Jackson Ottawa Jackson Johnson Bourbon Cowley Lane Ford Doniphan.. Butler Shawnee Osborne.... Morris
Deerfleld Delavan DeUa Delphos Denison De Soto Devon Dexter Barney St. Bernard.. Arcana Douglass Dover Downs Dwight
432 375 419 202 372 40 92 156 279 222 31 151 138 204 374
Deerfleld Delavan Delia Delphos i)enison De Soto Devon Dexter Dighton Dodge City.. Doniphan Douglass Dover Downs Dwight
Arthur F. Stepanek.. George L. Hart
Ist and 3d Monday.... 1st and 3d Thursday..
Republic... Kingman..
Cuba Cunningham..
Cuba Cunningham..
362 427
Lloyd Coberly. Perry E. Wolfley. Clarence B. Kallenberger. Frank M. Marsh. Leon L. Cousland. John V. Fralick. Robert H. White. Newton Hill. Theodore Z. Smith. Orville A. Keeler. Arthur Fauteux. Charles D. Mcllree. Clarke S. Pool. Charles W. Cleaver. tEUsworth V. Bryan.
Elmer R. Eyman. John D. Harkness. Charles E. Reynolds. Harry P. Dean. Clarence E. McClarren. Charles B. Wlard. George A. Van Dyke. Chester E. Snyder. John H. Sciiiereck. Richard W. Evans. Frank L. Brenner. Thomas M. Downey. Harry F. Boyer. Charles B. Bates. John E. Olson.
T. Edward Stafford. Roy E. Huffman.
. CO
00
o 0 o ft o
§
194 251 246 65 108 44 183
163 124 114 131 336 311 8 392 67 337 95 389 210
437 76 228 205 83 106
No.
Garden City .,
Ft. Leavenworth Fort Scott
Fall River
Erie
Location.
Fulton
Constellation .
Fidelity
Erie
Name of Lodge.
Stated Communications.
Otto A. Durr .. Edward H. Dix
Hugh E. Whipkey Abijah W. Campbell. Walter B. Bradley
Masters.
3d 3d 3d 3d
Monday Wednesday .. Thursday *Clyde Bond Thursday *Bay H. Woods
Anderson Smith
1st and 3d Thursday .... 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday .... Dew H. M. Stiles Saturday on or before®.. *Truman J. Stewart
Cherokee 1st and 3d Wednesday,.. McPherson .... 2d Thursday
1st and 1st and 1st and 1st and
*Ivenneth R. McDaniel 2d and 4th Saturday 1st and 3d Monday Donald K. Balch Leavenworth.. 1st and 3d Thursday . ,. Claude F. Young Pottawatomie 2d and 4th Saturday *Elmer F. Modin .
Greenwood .... 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Tuesday on or before ®.. Crawford
Dickinson
2d and 4th Monday 2d and 4th Wednesday.. 2d and 4th Tuesday Wabaunsee .... 1st and 3d Monday 2d and 4th Tuesday Greenwood .... 1st and 3d Tuesday
County.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Continued.
Harmon M. Martin.
Joseph R. Million.
Harry L. Woods.
Donald R. Smith.
Fred Roy Alford. Charles R. King. O. Carl Prather
William E. Bogart. Ora S. Wood. James C. Riggs. fLee Smith.
Lee J. White. Fred i. Papenhausen.
William O. Strain. Daniel P. Mills.
Secretaries.
o
b
o
00
216 35
195 263 398
208 34
193
301 185
296 232 293
15 211
302
430
361 93
Hiawatha
Havensvilie
Harveyville
Greensburg
Great Bend
Hiattville Hiawatha
Havensvilie
Harveyville
Gypsum City ....
Great Bend
Gofl
Glasco
Geneseo
2d and 4th Wednesday 1st Wednesday 1st and 3d Wednesday . 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Wednesday .. 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Tuesday
1st and 3d Tuesday
1st and 3d Wednesday .. 2d and 4th Friday
Everet G. Shellenberger.. Prank E. Whitaker Joseph H. Cool John B. Beeler Valentine Hart Ernest B. Danielson Lloyd J. Tustin Paul C. Stubbs *Charles S. Dorfshafler ... George E. Mahaffy Guy H. Byarlay Clyde B. Scott Robert E. Schulz Joseph J. Marshall Joseph A. Draper Arthur M. Weir Francis A. King
Ira J. Shaffer Washington.... 2d and 4th Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday Thomas J. Dreese Merle B. Beevers Greenwood .... 1st and 3d Thursday 2d and 4th Wednesday.. Jerry L. Sherrer Brown 1st and 3d Wednesday .. *John Titus 1st and 3d Friday *John V. Gilmore *Basll L. Franklin Wabaunsee .... Thursday on or before ® Harry B. Graham Arthur Marcoux Pottawatomie 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Tuesday Adrian T. McNutt...; 1st Monday William C. Wagner... Ellis 1st and 3d Tuesday *Ormonde D. Hanna... Barber Monday on or bef. ®= .. Thomas B. I^incoln... Crawford 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Victor C. Kingsbury.. Dickinson ... 2d and 4th Saturday Harry O. Armstrong.. Bourbon 1st Tuesday Francis M. Pearl Brown
Elk Coffey Gove
Monday or or before ®. Anderson 1st and 3d Wedne.sday .. Clay Washington.... 1st and 3d Wednesday ..
Rice : Crawford Cloud Mitchell Nemaha
John J. Muth. Ernest H. Huebert. Leonard U. Thrall. Laurence E. Shum. Horace A. Lee. Charles R. Baysinger. Theodore C. Moser. H. Grant'Astle. Walter C. Richardson. Roy H. Cassingham. Charles W. Reeder. Lawrence E. Maddox. Jasper N. Chambers. Fred M. Thompson. Emory B. Armstrong. Luther L. Hassenpflug.
J. Willis Manon.
John F Wiggins. Larkin B. Davidson. Sophus Nutland. Eugene P. Pound. Arloy H. Fitzwater. Camillo W. Jupe. Lawrence O. Maxwell. Valie L. Robertson. Clarence P. Hcaton. Frank S. Gerhold. Charles J. Reboul. Allen M. Beverly. Carl Kaucher. Homer C. Hunt. David D. Stuart.
Co
t^
ta o "a
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0
Si
Junction City....
227 360 282 11 441 7
443
Independence... Fortitude lola Blue Valley
Hoyt
Kanorado
Hutchinson
Pacific
Hoyt
Cyrus
107 38 112
Smlthton MillbrOok
Name of Lodge.
Hutcliinson Hutchinson
Highland Hill City
Location.
1 281 331 42 343 288 352 326 155 348 327 406 29 72 140 445
No.
Sherman
Hodgeman
Cloud
Masters.
1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Monday ..
2d and 4th Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday 2d and 4th Tuesday
1st and 3d Tuesday
1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Wednesday .. 2d and 4th Saturday 1st and 3d Thursday ,
Raymond W. Mahanna.... *CliarIes H. Dunnington....
1st and 3d Monday Roy A. Noll 2d and 4th Saturday 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Thursday William F. Tlirocitinorton 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday. . William C. Gillett 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Wednesday..
Staled Communications,
Montgomery.. 2d and 4th Tuesday 1st and 3d Tuesday Allen 2d and 4th Saturday Marshall
Allen
Ells
Ellsworth Diclfinson Greeley
County.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Continued.
Alva D. Mangus.
Ralph D. Hill.
Joseph M. Wanasek.
William H. Hargis.
Secretaries.
la
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Oi
to o o ft ft
00 05
287 152 420 135 181
2 10 68
330 61 325 260 289 339 49 167 401 6 9
405 338 230 447 179 278 175
Leavenwortti Leavenworth Leavenworth
Kensington
Kansas City Kansas City
333
369 438
Kansas City Kansas City Kansas City
3 271 272
Butler
.•
Franltlln Leavenworth..
Allen
Norton
Leavenworth.. Leavenworth King Solomon.... Leavenworth.. Leavenworth.. . Smith Oak Cofley Douglas
Nine Mile
Medicine Valiey
Phillips
Wyandotte .... Wyandotte .... Wyandotte.... Wyandotte.... Wyandotte.... R. E. Sherman.. Wyandotte .... Wyandotte... West Gate Smith Kensington Anderson Kingman Ford Mt. Moriah
Wyandotte ArmourdEile
2d and 4th Thursday 1st and 3d Monday 1st, 3d and 5th Thursday 2d Saturday 1st and 3d Tuesday 2d and 4th Thursday 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Wednesday 2d and 4th Tuesday 2d Monday 2d Thursday 1st and 3d Monday 2d and 4th Thursday .... 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Wednesday .. 1st and 3d Friday 1st and 3d Thursday Saturday on or before®..
1st and 3d Friday 1st and 3d Tuesday 2d and 4th Wednesday.. 2d and 4th Tuesday . . 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Wednesday .. 2nd and 4th Monday.... 2d and 4th Tuesday 2d and 4th Wednesday.. 2d and 4th Friday
1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Thursday
tJames E. Porter. tOrlo E. Durant. fArthur H. Strickland. tFrank McDougall. tWilliam E. Saunders. fFred H. Mertel. fClarendon Greenwood, Jr. Guy R. Currier. Ralph E. Smith. Clifford G. Miller. Archie L. Sisson. Otto A. McKiUip. Robert T. Ishmael. John Garrett. Herman E. Schwartzkopf. Pasha B. Leivy. John E. Garvey. James M. Williams. Francis L. Pierce. Marion McNutt. Charles L. Cherrie. Herbert L. Ames. Charles H. Cowles. tClarence E. Birch. Paul A. Lange. tCharles E. Cart, tJoseph J. Parker. tJoseph F. Seymour. James L. Felton. Edward R. Evans. John M. Taylor. Percy L. Jones. Robert A. Richmond.
*David H. Vance •George K. Laundy *Joseph H. Weber *Henry Worlcentine •Dean E. Davis •Albert L. Lowder •Melvin C. Onsen Elmer J. Cronn •Marl M. Collins Frank M. Yeoman Charles M. Gross Joseph M. Work Vernon C. Merryraan.. Isaac H. Hickman Harvey P. Forney Dow D. Gowing Alpha A. Holdeman Russel B. Lake Abram K. Brown Oscar N. Clark •Antone Hansen Harry F. Grove Willie E. Crabtree •James Naismlth Ernest E. Fellers... •Charles E. Moore •Wayland W. Bennett... •Arall H. Boyer Harold A. Vandervort. John W. Jones John M. Watts Edward Bradshaw Chester M. Larson
00
Co
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So
(0
?
371 196 16 87 342 370 28 147
220 300 154 307 170 241 219 264 231 26 243 198 153 101 192
235 340
223
No.
Maple Hill
Manhattan
Long Island Longton
Long Island
Maple City Maple Hill. Bldora
Euclid
Blue Hill
Corner Stone
Garfield Leoti
Name of Lodge.
Little River
LeonardvlUe ...
Location. 1st and 3d Saturday 1st and 3d Wednesday 2d and 4th Monday
Stated Communications.
2d and 4th Monday Albert J. Bock Staflord Greenwood .... 1st and 3d Tuesday Claud M. Boler Riley 1st and 3d Friday •Frank A. Blakslee 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Saturday on or bef. ®....*Fred C. Minor •Albert W. Phillips Wabaunsee.... Bourbon Saturday on or bef. ®=.... James Danely Marlon 1st Friday Clive H. Jarvis
Edwards
Arthur L. Marks.
Secretaries.
Howard Adams. Don C. Campbell. WiUiam H. Blacklm.
Warren H. Vining.
Harvey B. Brencman. H. Lee Foster.
William E. Bkey. Opic 0 . Mowrey. Gerald 0 . Drydeii. Patrick A. Dickerson
Arthiu- L. Walk. George W. ScWatter. Harry E. Wilson George W. Wells. Earl L. Smith. Ivan D. Lyon. George A. Nelson. Frank M. Shields Clarence A. Johnson. Howard W. Howsmon. Charles Davidson Robert G. Shumwav. Francis C. Troup. J. Miller Chestnutt.. *Bvron E. Miller Baron O. Jordan. Hotchkiss Morgridge. Jr.... Paul J. Foster.
Lloyd Mathes
Perry D. Pettit
Masters.
2d and 4th Wednesday.. 1st and 3d Monday 2d and 4th Thursday.... McPherson .... 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Washington.... Saturday on or before®.. Leavenworth.. Rice 2d and 4th Tuesday 2d and 4th Tuesday Phillips 1st and 3d Thursday , . Phillips 1st and 3d Thursday . Elk 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Thursday Howard W. Markle 1st and 3d Tuesday Russell William H. Lindsay 1st and 3d Wednesday .. 1st and 3d Thursday Rice
Butler Riley Wichita
County.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Continued.
o
b
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00
t—1
00
349 390 94 82
399 201 128 116
346 218 238 261
383 256 172 275 77 22 236 255 242 143 431 267 245 414 373 33
58 237
353 91 393
McCracIcen
Minneapolis
Neosho Falls
Tuscan
Mound City Mound City Moundridge Moundridge Mound Valley.... Mount Hope Mount Hope
Minneapolis
McPherson Webb Medicine Lodge Delta . .
McPlierson
McCracken
Marysville
Woodson
1st and 3d Saturday 1st and 3d Monday 2d and 4th Wednesday.. 1st and 3d Monday
McPherson.... 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Wednesday on or bef.®= Sedgwick 2d and 4th Tuesday Crawford 1st and 3d Wednesday .. 1st and 3d Wednesday .. 2d and-4th Wednesday.. 1st and 3d Thursday
McPherson .... 2d and 4th Tuesday 1st and 3d Tuesday 2d and 4th Thursday 2d and 4th Tuesday Rush 2d and 4th Monday Crawford 2d and 4th Wednesday.. Thursday on or bef.®.... Jcflerson McPherson .... 1st and 3d Tuesday . . Barber 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Thursday .. 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Friday Cloiid 2d and 4th Wednesday.. 2d and 4th Tuesday Clark 2d and 4th Tuesday Elk Saturday on or bef. ©=.... Allen 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Friday
Adolph W. Blecha Norman J. Akors Emil W. Sharpe Guy C. McKinley
WiUiam Carstensoh Orville M. Walton Leonard L. Smith Silas H. Sultzer Carl Liebig Jay T. Jackson Fred R. Cox Granvil E. Hagstrom. Alex R. Wilson Raymond S. Beneflol.. Robert E. Numbers.... George L. Jolmson George W. McClure... Henry M. Moss David T. Wooster •George H. Lutz Hudson Fuhrer William O. McKinley. Roy Baird •Clarence Masters Howard Glenn Doty... Harry G. Vetter Don Q. Aber Arthur H. Schowalter Otis Smith Henry H. Sherer Lester A. Carr Edward J. Brosh Lloyd Trial Albert Bever. Fayette E. Weldon. James A. Songer. Sheppard A. Williams.
Victor L. Krig. John I. Brandenburger. Charles C. Kelly. John I. Edwards. Thomas R. Landes. Oscar A. Brown. Jesse F. Pyle. Edison F. Kubin. Ormond Hamilton. Oscar T. Thom. Frank E. Jones. Robert E. Anderson. Phillip J. Casselman. Harry F Weelborg. Edward W. Lenander. Walter S. Wright. Harry E. Long. John J. Boman. Albert Kobler. Ray H. Mickey. Charles W. Kingsbury. Ivy B. Gray. Marvin O. Mayginnes. William A. McCormlck. Homer B. Kirk. Ernest E. French. Theodore C. Conklin. George W. Strnad. William H. Comer.
00
to
>-,
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Oketo . . Olathe ...
25 19 188 323 141 24 160 14 63 18 400 62
16S
Oak Hill
334
County.
Kingman
Clay
John W. Petty
Marcus T. Tally
Masters.
2d and 4th Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Monday
Silas J. Nichols
William C. Ahlf Clifford C. O'Bryhim
Albert G. Patrick
Karl S. McGrew *Fred N. Bieri
Ralph B. Medlln
1st and 3d Thursday Thursday on or before ® •Clinton E. Carper 2d and 4th Wednesday.. 1st and 3d Thursday
2d and 4tb Tuesday
1st and 3d Tuesday
Stated Communications.
1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Mountain Slope 1st and 3d Tuesday Marshall 1st and 3d Monday 2d Thursday Pottawatomie 1st and 3d Wednesday .. 1st and 3d Wednesday .. 1st and 3d Wednesday .. 1st and 3d Thursday Osage Valley 2d and 4th Thursday 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Friday
Mount Zlon
Walnut VaUey.... Jackson Polar Star New Albany Wilson
Name of Lodge.
Overland Park .. Overland Park .. Oxford
Osawatomie
Norton ville Norwich
Netawaka New Albany
Location.
319
142 43 317 199
191
No.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Continued.
Alfred Owens.
Clyde J. Cordts.
Frank A. Jones.
Eli B. Roadhouse.
Francis W. Irwin. Guy C. Allen. Charles T. Guise. Warren H. Rosenbury. Elmer E. Hines. Jacob S. Anderson.
tJames T. Ray. Charles N. Wooddell. Fred L. Auker. John D. Rasure. .
Hayes Floyd.
Secretaries.
ft
o
Co
o
b
8to
O
^3
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00
426 344 159 434 111 215 177
304 166 123
270 410
384
265 332
385 187 367 290 88 41 4
117 120 415
37 341
Rush Center
Riley
Walnut City
Rush Russell
Butler
Riley
Jewell Riley Republic
Charles E. Miller. Claude W. Roesch. Earl L. Barrett. fWillard L. Kjellin. James W. Werts. Wylie V. Carswell. David P. Graham. Joseph A. Meyer. Jesse A. Petty. William H. Anderson. Cassius H. Siegle. Frank U. Kershner. Arthur L. Boyd.
William O. Poston Cecil Calvert Lee J. Nichols Elmer JA. Nordstrom.... Orville W. Albertson... Gladeth P. Bastin Charles A. Smith Merton L. Otto Louis Peuerbacher Theo M. Glenn Anthony L. Ruff *Kim West J. David Steinle
1st and 3d Wednesday .. 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Wednesday .. 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Friday 1st and 3d Friday 2d and 4th Wednesday.. 1st and 3d Tuesday
George M. CopUn. Charles E. Vail. tJohn H. Amos. fHarvey R. Reed. Harold H. Brindley. William E. Cain. Fred A. Kelly. tWilliam A. Dresser. William W. Belne. John H. Hiatt. Eari T. Gillespie. Charles V. Porter. Leonard L. Jones. Joseph M. Smith. tCharles W. Loyd. Oran L. Miller. Lawrence P. Millspaugh. tPorter Gump. Atlee M. Edmonston.
1st and 3d Thursday 2d and 4th Monday
James F. Brandon Edward C. Redding 1st and 3d Saturday Tuesday on or before ® Clarence A Gordon •Clarence E. Main 2d and 4th Monday Labette Andrew P. Fost 1st and 3d Monday Dale Stark 1st and 3d Tuesday Jefferson Wilbur L, Faubion Phillips Phillipsburg Phillipsburg *Fred A. Hein Wyandotte.... 2d and 4th Saturday Piper Piper Edward V. Gorrell 2d Thursday Crawford *Joe C. Benson 1st and 3d Thursday Plains Plains LeRoy A. Eads 1st and 3d Friday W. Chester Kay 1st and 3d Tuesday Edward J. Neely Franklin 2d and 4th Tuesday Saturday on or before®. Arthur L. Baughman... Potter Quillian I. Lewis Powhattan Charles F. Zimmerman 2d and 4th Monday Pratt Pratt 1st and 3d Tuesday Edward E. Ford Rob Morris Pratt 2d and 4th Tuesday Daniel V. Warren Pretty Prairie.... Pretty Prairie... 1st and 3d Thursday Emory E. Fleming.. Comanche
Co
>^
o
ta
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to
162 395 60 446 315 351 221 2S4 249 407 136 139 423 39 313 213 417 54 50 214 174 240 105 157 388 347 56 252
No
Name oj Lodge.
County.
Stated Communications.
Masters.
1st and 3d Thursday Oliver M. Nevltt 1st and 3d Monday Victor H. B. Nordlund 1st and 3d Tuesday .. 1st and 3d Thursday, Allen Earnest G. Boo 1st and 3d Wednesday .. *Ernest O. Vanorsdall Cherokee 1st and 3d Monday .. Edward T. Olson 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Scott Scott City Mitchell 2d and 4th Tuesday Scottsville Scottsville.... Hugh R. Coflman 2d and 4th Monday . William B. Graham Chautauqua .. 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Tuesday Selden 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday Albert W. Ward Doniphan . 2d Sat. and 4th Wed ,, Twin Grove Greenwood.... 2d and 4th Tuesday . 1st and 3d Thursday Sharon Springs.. Sharon Springs.. 1st and 3d Wednesday . Fred A. Mitchell 1st and 3d Thursday . Silver Lalie Mitchell Smith 1st and 3d Tuesday Leverett G. Wolfe Smitti Center.... Western Star 2d and 4th Thursday Soldier 2d and 4th Tuesday Solomon City .... DIcljinson 1st and 3d Tuesday . William J. Zimmerman .... Soutli Haven 1st and 3d Thursday ... Ford 1st and 3d Wednesday .. * William D. Duckworth Kingman *Durah W. Watts 1st and 3d Monday Spring Hill Spring Hill S. Floyd Peacock Stafford Stafford Stafford
SaffordviUe
Location.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Continued.
Harrel Thomas. John L. Ament.
Ernest L. Ogle.
Frank M. Duckworth. Reuben A. Vanderwilt.
Earnest C. Scott.
Jack R. Houston. tCarl Fuhrken. Charles H. Ferguson.
George R. Moore. Frank L. Grimwood. Charles N. Fowler. Charles P. McDonald. William G. Taylor. Ralph S. Bennett. Albert R. Morey. James B. Morris. C. Fred Lipke. Bryan McKinley. Wilbur H. Cheney. W. Howard Cadle.
Secretaries.
>^
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00 ^3
Ulysses Excelsior.. Urbana
Valley Center.. Valley Falls Vermillion
Wakarusa
Uljsses Uniontown.. Urbana
Valley Center.. Valley Falls Vermillion
Wakarusa
435 115 239
364 21 320
402
Thayer Henri Topelca Orient Golden Rule.. Siloam Woodson Towanda Troy.... Turner Turon Tyro
Thayer Tonganoxio... Topelfa Topeka Topclca (No.; Topelia Toronto Towanda Troy Turner Turon Tyro
149 190 17 51 90 225 121 30 55 425 358 386
Stanley Sterling St. Francis Ionic Pottawatomie.. Newahcuba Santa Fe Summerfleld .... Sylvan Grove .. Sylvia Syracuse
Stanley Sterling St. Francis St. John St. Marys Stocliton Sublette Summerfleld ... Sylvan Grove . Sylvia Syracuse
444 171 404 254 52 189 312 354 359 391 309
I Shawnee,
|»Benjamin H. Galbreath.... Forest G. Joss.
Eugene S. Talcott. John C. Burliort. Joseph H. Jolmson. •Harry H. Sullard Herbert A. Murray.. David L. Anderson..
1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Wednesday 1st and 3d Thursday I 1st and 3d Saturday
James A. Carter. Milo Miller. John A. Ewen. Herbert W. Stubbs.. Irl Miller John F. Dawson
2d and 4th Wednesday. Saturday on or before®. 1st and 3d Thursday
Grant Bourbon.. Neosh9....
Sedgwick.. Jefferson... Marshall...
Edwin C. Eagles. William Heynen. tGeorge W. McClelland. tEvan Davis. tJames H. MurroU. tBurl J. Snow. E. Francis Armstrong. Napoleon L. Reed. Glenn I. Hackney. Charles S. Wilson. Frederick R. Frank. Herman S. Tuttle.
William A. Walt John N. Broadiick *Percy Lowe Rood *Cliester L. Woodington .. *Clarence E. Mauney •Sidney S. Janes John M. Cable Andrew J. Ralston Charles Marble, Jr *John R. Harbour Ernest G. Walker William W. Cottingham..
Glenn H. Wagner. Hugo H. Rauschelbach. Hulbert G. Lockard. James H. Hammitt. Bert Levett. George M. Unger. John J. Miller. Edward M. Wagner. Stanley E. Raflety. John W. Coleman. William E. Patton.
2d and 4th Monday 1st Sat. and 3d Thurs 1st and 3d Wednesday 1st and 3d Friday 2d and 4tli Tliursday 1st and 3d Tliursday 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st Mon. and 2d Sat 1st and 3d Thursday.... 1st and 3d Saturday .... 2d and 4th Friday
1st and 3d Tuesday....; *Oscar H. Anes 1st Thursday Charles W. Davis 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Chase H. Day 1st and 3d Monday Harry T. Austin 1st Wednesday * Arthur Holvorson 1st and 3d Tuesday Gay Litton 2d and 4th Monday *Zeddie F. Sprout :... 1st and 3d Thursday Walter L. Larmore 1st and 3d Thursday Joseph Kulicli 1st and 3d Tuesday Thomas C. Downs 1st and 3d Thursday Kirkland F. Waddell.
Neosho Leavenworth. Shawnee Shawnee Shawnee Shawnee Woodson Butler Doniphan Wyandotte ... Reno Montgomery.
Johnson Rice i Cheyenne Stafford Pottawatomie RooliS Haskell Marshall Lincoln Reno Hamilton
Co
o
to o
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0
274 150 356 257 305 53 96 380 78 250 86 99 303 433 224 412 382 2U8
229 75 104 85 64
148 396 377
No.
Crawford Pottawatomie Washington...
Trego
County.
Doniphan Coffey Black Diamond.. Cherokee
Wa-Keeney Walsefleld
Name of Lodge.
Wllsey. WUsoa
. .
White Church.... White City White Cloud Whiting Wichita Wichita Wlclilta WlcUta Williamsburg
Sedgwick
Doniphan
Wyandotte....
Wllsey
Ellsworth..
Wichita Sedgwick Albert Pike Bestor G. Brown Sedgwick
White City White Cloud Whiting
Weir.. Wellington Franklin Wells ville WellsvlUo .. Westmoreland.... Westmoreland.... Pottawatomie Anderson
Washington
Walnut
Wakefield
Location.
Masters.
1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Tuesday , Roscoe A. S. NlemoUer .... 1st Wednesday Walter E. David 1st and 3d Monday Monday on or before ®.. Elra S. Robison 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Ray HiU, Jr John E. GlUett 2d and 4th Thm-sday 1st and 3d Thursday Ernest J. Scholz 1st and 3d Saturday David D. Duffy 1st and 3d Tuesday 2d Thursday William P. Murrell 2d and 4th Monday Ellis P. Addy 1st and 3d Monday,. 2d and 4th Monday Tuesday on or before ®.. Saturday on orbef.®"=,... •Lawrence R. Moore *Henry F. Woestemeyer .... 1st and 3d Saturday 2d and 4th Wednesday,. George G. Leonard 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Tuesday on or bef. ®«=.... Harry G. Fish *Samuel J. Falley 2d and 4th Tuesday •Charles M. Ulsh 1st and 3d Monday 2d and 4th Wednesday.. *Perry D. Baker •Wiliam J. Bauerle 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Thursday Clarence 0 . Masterson 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Wednesday .. -James R. Trultt
Stated Communications.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Concluded.
Irving P. Belden. fWilliam H. McCoin. tJoseph L. Kirk. tBenjamln F. Dunkln. tCiyde S. Shelley. Jesse A. Whltsitt. David F. HolUman. Roger O. Tompkins. Arthur A. Jellison.
George M. Johnston. Claude J. Wood. tChoster A. Barnard. Koyal F. Smith.
Donald H. Swezey. Herbert W. Snyder. Celesto M. De TiUa. James E. Miller. John L. Baxter. Frank C. Bamer. Franklin S. Adams. Fred F. Clobridgo. Ernest A. Farrow. Gabriel Anderson. Clarence J. Wells. Charles A. Smith.
Secretaries.
O
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00 N)
Kingman
MASTERS. No. *Address. 342—Dexter. 345—Angola. 347—Duquoin. 350—Peru. 351—West Mineral. 352—Tribune. •364—Wicluta, R. F. D. 9. 365—Leavenworth, 1117 Spruce. 367—Kismet.. 368—Manchester, Okla. 369—2966 Hiawatha Ave. 370—Paxico. 373—Sabotha. 375—White City, R. F. D. 4. 378—Spivcy. 379—Benedict, R. F. D. 385—Basehor, R. F. D. 1. 389—Argonia, R. F. D. 3. 392—^Olsburg, R. P. D. 1. 394—Pratt, R. F. D. 2. 402—Topeka. R. F. D. 2. 421—Burlingame, R. 4. 425—Muncie. 431—Dodge City. 433—Box 944. 438—955 Sandusky. 440—Atchison, R. P. D. 6. 444—Belton, Mo.
SPECIAL ADDRESSES. SECRETARIES. No. •^Address. 2—603 Olive St. 3—Masonic Temple. 6—2305 Vermont St. 10—713M Spruce St. 16—Box 86, K. S. A. C. 17—Masonic Temple. 47—Bronson. 50—Topeka,' R. 6. 51—1400 Topeka Ave. 68—2006 S. 4th St 86—205 Caldwell-Murdock Bldg. 90—1228 N. Harrison. 96—Bethel. 99—Box 255. 109—R. 2. 117—Box 342. 142—106 E. Broadway. 158—116 N. 7th St. 166—Garrison. 168—White City. 225—Room B. Masonic Temple. 271—1106 Garfield Ave. 272—1825 Washington Blvd. 303—Scottish Rite Temple. 313—Denton. 322—1629 S. 29th St. ^33—3944 Hudson Rd. 363—Hiawatha, R. 4. 365—Leavenworth. R. F. D. 3. 369—3021 N. 22nd St. 385—1206 Spruce St., Leavenworth. 413—Cimarron. 428—Castleton. 433—Box 963. 438—302 Huron Bldg. 441—Manter.
Clare S. Loclfwood.
Fred C. Cannady.
1st and 3d Wednesday .. 2d and 4th Wednesday.. *Deo Rickard
tRobert H. Marshall.
J. Harry Riley. Rudolph D. Shilling. David O. Watts.
Saturday on or before®..
Thursday on or before S •Herbert G. Boyd Eric H. Rosen McPherson.... 1st and 3d Saturday Walter D. Guy 1st and 3d Thursday
MASTERS. No. *Address. 131—R. 1. 142—600 Main St. 158—809 Spruce St. 164—Ludell. 182—R. 2. 183—Harlan. 193—R. 3. 206—R. F. D. 210—Proscott. 215—Nekoma. 217—Great Bond, R. F. D. 6. 225—619 W. 15th St. 231—Prairie View. 247—Lyons. 263—Corwin. 271—1005 Reynolds Ave. 272—731 State Ave. 303—Scottish Rite Temple. 305—Mont Ida. 312—Oopeland. 313—Denton. 317—Kanona. 322—1265 Metropolitan Ave. 323—Bern. 327—Elmont. 333—1902 W. 47th St. 334—Miltonvale. 338—Mildred.
Zenda i^And two weeks thereafter.
378
MASTERS. No. * Address. 2—117 Third Ave. 3—1131 Cleveland. 6—1700 Mississippi. 7—Fort Riley. 10—236 Fifth Ave. 15—Route 6. 16—303 Poyntz Ave. 17—1617 Grove St. 23—R. F. D. 3. 31—Atchison, R. 6. 47—Bronson. 49—Leavenworth. National Military Home. 51—State Hospital. 52—R. F. D. 2. 53—Notawaka. 56—Bucyrus. 57—Fall River, R. F. D. 68—1230 Kiowa St. 72—Lancaster. 84—McLouth. 86—2604 E. Second St. 90—1139 Brooks Ave. 92—Fort Scott, R. 3. 96—Bethel. 99—449 N. Market. 109—R. 1. 117—1523 Gabriel.
Yates Center
GUead
Wlnfield
144
47
84 276 110
00 en
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>^ >^ •^ to >^
o b la o
Leavenworth ......... *R. R. ReeB .......... Leavenworth ......... *R. R. Rees .......... Leavenworth ......... *R. R. Rees .......... Lawrence ....... _.... *R. R. Rees .......... Atchison ............ *G. H. Fairchild ...... Topeka .............. *Jacob Saqui. ........ Topeka ............. *Jacob Saqui. ........ Topeka ............. *Jacob Saqui. ........ Topeka ........... :. *Jacob Saqui ......... Topeka ............. *Jacob Saqlli ......... Topeka ............. *M. S. Adams ...... '.. Leavenworth ......... *M. S. "dams ........ Lawrence ............ *John H. Brown ...... Leavenworth ......•.. *John H. Brown ...... Atchison ............ *John H. Brown ...... Topeka ............. *John M. Price ....... Fort Scott ........... *John M. Price ......• Lawrence ............ *0. A. Bassett ........ Leavenworth ......... *0. A. Bassett ........ Topeka ............. 'Isaac B. Sharp ....... Emporia ............ *Jacob D. Rush ....... Topeka ............. *John Guthrie ........ Atchison ............ *E. D. HiIIyer ........ I,ca\·enworth ......... *J. D. McCleverty .... .................... *J. D. McClcverty .... Topeka ............. *William CowgiH ...... Topeka ............. -William Cowgill ..•.. Topeka ............. "George S. Green ......
1883
1882
tl880 1881
1875 1876 1877 1878 1879
1874
1873
1872
1871
1870
1866 1867 1868 1869
1865
1863 1864
1862
1860 1861
1859
1858
1857
1856
Gr. Senior Warden.
Gr. Junior Warden.
Grand Trea8urer.
Grand Secretary.
*J. S. Hedfield ........ *C. K Holliday ....... *C. K. Holliday ....... *C. K. Holliday ....... 'C. K. Holliday....... *C. K. Holliday ....... *C. K Holliday....... *E. A. Smith ......... *E. A. Smith ......... *C. C. Kellam .....•.. 'John M. Price ....... *G. W. Hogeboom ..... *Jacob D. Hush ....... *Isaae B. Sharp ....... *Isaac B. Sharp ....... *John Guthrie ........ *John Guthrie ....... ' *E. D. Hillyer ........ *D. Byington ......... 'William Cowgill ...... *William Cowgill ...... *A. D. McConaughy ... -Samuel R. Peters ..... *J. Jay Buck ........ ,
*A. Griffin ............ *M. S. Adams ........ *J. F. Bliss ........... *0. W. McAlIaster .... *0. W. McAllaster .... *M. S. Adams ........ *J. C. Hicbmond ...... *E. D. Hillyer ........ *C. C. Kellam ........ "G. W. Hogeboom ..... *G. W. Hogeboom ..... *J. L. Philbrick ....... *Isaac B. Sharp ....... *J. W. Peck .......... *J. W. Peck .......... *B. J. F. Hanna ....... *David Broc·kway .... : *John A. Anderson .... *J. D. MeCleverty .... *A. D. McConaughy ... *A. D. McConaughy ... "George S. Green ...... *George S. Green ...... *Abram H. Ellis .......
tJ. W. H. Watson ..... *W. F. Johnson ....... *W. F: Johnson ....... *John A. Chase ....... *John A. Chase ....... *J. C. Watson ........ *E. D. Hillyer ........ *J. '1'. Lanter ......... *G. W. Hogeboom ..... *J. D. Rush .... : ..... *J. L. Philbrick ....... *J. W. Peck .......... *J. W. Peck .......... *John Guthrie ........ "John Guthrie .... : ... *W..H. Smallwood .... lin. E. Torrington ..... *J. D. McCleverty .... ok. D. McConaugby ... *M. M. Miller ........ *M. M. Miner ........ *Samuel·n. Peters ..... *J. Jay Buck ......... *James M. Keck ......
*Christian Beck ....... *Christian Beck ....... *Christian Beck ....... 'Christian Beck ....... *Christian Beck ....... *Christian Beck ....... *Christian Beck ....... *Christian Beck ....... *Christian Beck ....... *Christian Beck ... , ... "Christian Beck ....... "Christian Beck ....... -Christian Beck ....... *Christian Beck ....... *Christian Beck....... *Christian Beck ....... *Christian Beck ....... *Christian Beck ....... *Christian Beck ....... *Christian Beck ....... 'Christian Beck ....... "Christian Beck ....... *Christian Beck ....... *Christian Beck.......
*Charlcs Mundc •. *E.T. Carr. *E. '1'. Carr. *E. '1'. Carr. *E. T. Carr. 'E. '1'. Carr. *E. '1'. Carr. *E. '1'. Carr. *E. T. Carr. *E. T. Carr. "E. T. Carr. *John H. Brown. *John H. Brown. *John H. Brown. *John H. Brown. *John H. Brown. *John H. Brown. *John H. Brown. *John H. Brown. >John H. Brown. *John H. Brown. *John H. Brown. *John H. Brown. 'John H. Brown.
*G. H. Fairchild ...... *C. Hornsby .......... *E. T. Carr ........... *Christian Beck ....... *Charles MundeC'.
*J. W. Smith ......... *Matt R. Walker ...... *D. Vanderslice ....... *Be~erlin Beck ........ *C. T. Harrison. *Jacob Saqui. ....... , fWilliam McMath ..... *Christian Beck ....... *Wm. Y. Roberts ..... *Charles Mundec. *Jacob Saqui. ........ *C. Hornsby .......... *J. W. Smith ......... *Christian Beck ....... *Charles Mund..,.
M:.W:. Gr. Ma8ter. Deputy Gr. Ma8ter.
Placs 0/ Meeting.
Dau.
ELECTIVE GRAND OFFICERS OF THE GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS FROM ITS ORGANIZATION.
1884 Law~ence ............ *J. Jay Buck ......... *Abram H. Ellis ....... *M. M. Miller ........ 1885 Emporia ............ *M. M. Miller ........ *Silos E. Sheldon ...... *Henry C. Cook ....... 1886 Topeka ............. *Silas E. Sheldon ..... 'Henry C. Cook ....... 'Watson M. Lamb .... 1887 Atchison ............ *Henry C. Cook ....... *Watson M. La~b .... 'George C. Kenyon .... 1888 Junction City ........ *Watson M. Lamb .... *George C. Kenyon .... *J. C. Postlethwaite ... 1889 Wichita ............. *Geor.lle C. Kenyon .... *J. C. Postlethwaite ... *A. M. Callaham ...... 1890 Salina ............... *J. C. Postlethwaite ... *A M. Callaham ...... *David B. Fuller.... 1891 Fort Scott........... *A. M. Callaham ...... *David B. FuUer ...... *Wm. D. Thompson ... 1892 Leavenworth ......... *David B. Fuller ...... *Wm. D. Thompson ... tGeorge W. Clark ..... 1893 . Hutchinson .......... *Wm. D. Thompson ... tGeorge W. Clark ... " *James H. McCall ..... 1894 Topeka ............. tGeorge W. Cl,ark ..... *James H. McCall ..... *Chiles C. Coleman .... 1895 Topeka ............. 'James H. McCalL .... *Chile~ C. Coleman .... *WilIiam M. Shaver ... 1896 Wichita ............. 'Chiles C. Coleman .... 'Wiijiam M. Shaver ... *Mauriee L. Stone ..... 1897 Salina ............... *William M. Shaver ... 'Maurice L. Stone ..... 'Henry C. Loomis... .. 1898 Wichita ............. 'Maurice L. Stone ..... 'Henry C. Loomis. . . .. Charles J Webb. . ... 1899 Leavenworth ......... *Henry C. Loomis... .. Charles J Webb. .. .. Perry M. Hoisington. 1900 Topeka. . . .. . . . . .... Charles J Webb ..... Perry M. Hoisington. 'Thomas E. Dcwey .... . 1901 Wichita. . ........... Perry M. Hoisington. 'Thomas E. Dewey .... *Bestor G. Brown. . . .. 1902 Fort Scott ........... *Thomas E. Dewey .... 'Bestor G. Brown..... Thomas G. Fitch ..... 1903 Wichita ............. 'Bestor G. Brown ..... Thomas G. Fitch ..... 'Samuel R. Peters ..... 1904 Topeka... .......... Thomas G. Fitch ..... 'Samuel R. Peters..... 'Thomas L. Bond ..... 1905 Wichita ............. *SamueI'R. Peters..... Thomas L. Bond ..... *E. W. Wellington..... 1906 Topeka....... ...... Thomas L. Bond ..... 'E. W. Wellington..... Henry F. Mason ..... 1907 Wichita ............. 'E. W. Wellington ..... Henry F. Mason ..... 'Fred Washbon ....... 1908 Topeka ............. Henry F. Mason ..... 'Fred Washbon ....... M. K. Brundage ...... 1909 Wichita ............. *Fred WashOOn ....... M. K. Brundage ..... Alex. A. Sharp.'. 1910 Hutchinson .......... M. K. Brundage ..... Alex. A. Sharp ....... W. E. Hutchison ..... 1911 Kansas City ......... Alex. A. Sharp ....... W. E. Hutchison ..... Elrick C. Cole ....... 1912 Topeka. . . . ..... . ... W. E. Hutchison. .. .. Elrick C. Cole ....... *C. H. Chandler. . . . .. 1913 Wichita ............. Elrick C. Cole ....... *C. H. Chandler ...... Wm. L. Burdick ...... 1914 Topeka ............. *C. H. Chandler ...... Wm. L. Burdick ...... Giles H. Lamb.'. 1915 Wichita ............. Wm. L. Burdick ...... Giles H. Lamb ....... Charles E. Lobd·lll .... 1916 Topeka ............. Giles H. Lamb ....... Charles E. Lobdell .... *Wm. 1. Stuart ....... 1917 Wichita ............. Charles E. Lobdell .... *Wm. 1. Stuart ....... Owen J. Wood .. "". *Silas E. Sheldon ...... 'Watson M. Lamb .... 'George C. Kenyon .... *J. C. Postlethwaite ... *A. M. Callaham ...... *David B. Fuller ...... *Wm. D. Thompson ... tGeorge W. Clark ..... 'James H. McCall ..... 'Chiles C. Coleman .... *William M. Shaver ... 'Maurice L. Stone ..... *HentIY C. Loomis ..... Cha;les J Webb ..... Perry M. Hoisington. 'Thomas E. Dewey .... 'Bestor G. Brown ..... Thomas G. Fitch ..... 'Abram H. Ellis.... . Thomas L. Bond ..... 'E. W. Wellington ..... Henry F. Mason ..... *Fred Wash!:on ....... M. K. Brundage ..... Alex. A. Sharp ....... W. E. Hutchison ..... Elrick C. Cole ....... 'C. H. Chandler ...... Wm. L. Burdick.... . Giles H. Lamb ....... Charles E. Lobdell .... *Wm. 1. StU",!. ...... Owen J. Wood ....... *ijll~ll P. FIII'relly .... 'Christian Beck ....... 'Christian Beck ....... 'Christian Beck ....... *Christian Beck ....... *Christian Beck ....... *Christian Beck ....... *Christian Beck.. 'Christian Beck ....... IIR. E. TOI;rington. IIR. E. Torrington. !lR. E. Torrington. IIR. E. Torrington. .. .. IIR. E. Torrington. .. . I!R. E. Torrington. .... IIR. E. Torrington. .. .. IIR. E. Torrington. .. .. IIR. E. Torrington. .. . IIR. E. Torrington. .. .. IIR. E. Torrington. .. .. 'Albert Sarbach ....... 'Al!:ert Sarbach... .. .. 'Albert Sarbach... . ... 'Albert Sarbch ....· 'Albert Sarbach ....... 'Albert Sarbach ....... *Albert Sarbach..... W. F.March..... W. F. March...... W. F. March. . . ... .. W. F. March ........ W. F. March ........ W. F. M"'ch ........ W. F. March ........ W. F. March ........
'John H. Brown. 'John H. Brown. *John H. Brown. *John H. Brown. *John H. Brown. *John H. Brown. *John H. Brown. *John H. Brown. *John H. Brown. 'John H. Brown. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Al\;ert K. Wil,son. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson . Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilaon.
1923 1924 1925 1926 1927
1918 1919 51920 1921
Date.
*Hugh P. Farrelly Ben S. Paulen
*John A. Ferrell John McCuIIagh Richard E. Bird Richard E. Bird Charles A. Loucks Elmer F. Strain Charles A. Loucks.... John W. Neilson Charles A. Loucks.... John W. Neilson Charles N. Fowler John W. Neilson... Charles N. Fowler FerrisM. Hill Charles N. Fowler . . . FerrisM. Hill........ George F. Beezley....
John McCullagh
•Hugh P. Farrelly
JayB. Kirk
John W. Neilson "Charles N. Fowler FerrisM. Hill
*John A. Terrell Richard E. Bird
Ben S. Paulen
Master. Deputy Gr. Master. Gr. Senior Warden. Gr. Junior Warden.
*Wm. I. Stuart Owen J. Wood *HughP. Farrelly
M:.w:.Gr.
W.F.March W. F. March W. F. March W. F. March W.F.March W.F.March W. F. March W.F.March W.F.March W.F.March
Grand Treasurer.
•Deceased. fDimittcd and removed from this jurisdiction. |1 Suspended. }In 1879 the time for holding the Annual Communication was changed from October to February, and no Communication was held in 1880. §Annual Communication postponed from February 18-19,1920, to March 17-18,1920, account of influenza. °Clayton Lehman elected, but declined to accept and Charles N. Fowler was appointed.
Wichita
Wichita
Wichita
Place of Meeting.
ELECTIVE GRAND OFFICERS ^ROM ORGANIZATION TO PRESENT TIME—Concluded.
Albert K. Wileon. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. WiUon. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson.
Grand Secretary.
t>i
o
b
tg
o ts
Hi
00
00
GRAND
1926-27.
LODGE
OF
829
KANSAS.
ALPHABETICAL LIST OF LODGES. Name. Acacia Active Adams Advance Albert Pilce ,Alden AUen Alma Alpha Altamont Alta Vista Altoona Amerlcus Anchor Anthem Anthony Antiquity Apollo Arcadia Arcana Argonia Arma... Armourdale Ashland Ashlar Attica Atwood Auburn Avon Axtell
No. 9 158 63 114 303 308 335 161 282 69 357 118 109 224 284 200 280 297 329 31 285 408 271 277 344 262 164 32 305 234
Location. Lawrence. Atchison. Oswego. Florence. "Wichita. Alden. Allen. Alma. Jetmore. Altamont. Alta Vista. Altoona. Amerlcus. Williamsburg. Scott City. Anthony. Chapman. . Ellis. Arcadia. Doniphan. Argonia. Arma. Kansas City. Ashland. Kiley. Attica. Atwood. Auburn. Westphalia. Axtell.
Barney 279 Baxter 71 Beattie 259 Beaumont 439 Belle Plaine 173 Belleville 129 Bendena 440 Benedict 403 Benevolent 98 Ben Hur 322 Bennington 180 Bestor G. Brown..433 Beulah :....291 Black Diamond....274 Blue Hill 198 Blue Eapids 169 Blue Valley 112 BoUng 365 Bonner Springs ....366 Bourbon 268 Broolcville 209 Buffalo 379 Burdick 429 Burlington 66 Burr Oak 178 Burrton 182
Dighton. Baxter Springs. Beattie. Beaumont. Belle Plaine. Belleville. Bendena. Benedict. Abilene. Kansas City. Bennington. Wichita. Bunker Hill. Weir. Lucas. Blue Rapids. Irving. Boling. Bonner Springs. Bronson.' Brookville. Buffalo. Burdick. Burlington. Burr Oak. Burrton.
Cable Caney Canopy Canton Carbondale Carson Cawker City Cedar Center Charity Chase Chautauqua Cherokee Cherryvale Chetopa
Arlington. Caney. Grenola. Canton. Carbondale. Elk City. Cawker City. Chanute. Marion. Hazelton. Chase. Cedar Vale. Cherokee. Cherryvale. Chetopa.
299 324 248 197 70 132 125 103 147 263 247 .355 119 137 73
Name. Circleville Clafiin Clay Center Clifton Climax Clinton Coats Codell Comanche Constellation Coolidge Corinthian Corner Stone Cosmos Council Grove Coyville Crescent Cuba Cunningham Cyrus Deerfleld Delavan Delaware DeUa Delphian Delphos Delta Denison De Soto Devon Dexter ; Dirigo Doric Douglass Dover Downs Dwight Easton Edna Eldora Elkhart EUinwood Ellsworth Emerald... Eminence Emmett Emporia Ensign Enterprise Equity Erie Euclid Eureka Excelsior Fargo ; Farmers Fidelity Formoso Fortitude Fostorla Frankfort Fraternal Frederick Freeport Friendship Frontier Fulton Galena Galva Gardner Garfield
No. 20 424 134 122 411 233 394 418 295 95316 79 219 278 36 57 133 362 427 288 432 375 96 419 44 202 77 372 40 92 156 226 83 151 138 204 374 45 345 28 422 217 146 289 205 387 12 413 437 131 76 101 88 115 300 166 106 336 107 392 67 170 337 389 208 104 210 194 251 65 235
Location. Circleville. Claflin. Clay Center. Clifton. Climax. Burden. Coats. Codell. Coldwater. Fredonia. Coolidge. Burlingame. Little River. Kiowa. Council Grove. Coyvllle. Arkansas City. Cuba. Cunningham. Hope. Deerfleld. Delavan. White Church. Delia. Garnett. Delphos. Medicine Lodge. Denison. De Soto. Devon. Dexter. Haddam. Eudora. Douglass. Dover. Downs. Dwight. Easton. Edna. Mapleton. Elkhart. EUinwood. Ellsworth. Lakin. Eskridge. Emmett. Emporia. Ensign. Enterprise. Fontana. Erie. Lyndon. Pleasanton. Uniontown. Liberal. lliandolph. Eureka. Formoso. Independence. Fostorla. Frankfort. Linn. Frederick. Freeport. Haven. Washington. Fulton. Galena. Galva. Gardner. Leonard ville.
830 Name.
Gaylord Genesee Gilead Girard Glasco Glen E l d e r Godfrey Goff Golden B u l e Goodland Gove City Grainfleld G r a n d View Great Bend Greeley Greenleaf Greenwood Grinnell Gypsum City Halcyon Halstead Hamilton Hamlin Hancock Harmony Harper Hartford H a r v e y ville Haven Havensville Haviland Hays Hebron... Henri Hepler Hesperian Hiattville Hiawattia Highland Hiram Hoislngton Holton Holyrood Home Hope Horace Horton Hoxie Hoyt Hugoton Huron Hutchinson Ionic lola Jamestown Jefferson Jennings Jewell Johnson Joppa
PROCEEDINGS No.
Location.
.183 361 144 93 292 294 124 430 90 321 302 3S1 376 15 211 232 163 448 328
Gaylord. Geneseo. Yates Center. Girard. Glasco. Glen Elder. Farlington. Goft. North Topeka. Goodland. Gove. Grainfleld. Bucklin. Great Bend. Greeley. Greenleaf. Fall R i v e r . Grlnnell. Gypsum.
120 46 301 185 311 94 206 193 421 157 34 409 195 314 190 398 Ill 216 35 296 68 331 42 343 89 155 352 320 348 327 406 72 445
Peabody. Halstead. Hamilton. Hamlin. Ft. Leavenworth. Neodesha. Harper. Hartford. H a r v e y ville. South H a v e n . Havensville. Haviland. Hays. Gridley. Tonganoxie. Hepler. Ross ville. Hiattville. Hiawatha. Green. Leavenworth. Hoisington. Holton. Hclyrood. Ceiitralia. Howard. Horace. Horton. Hoxie. Hoyt. Hugoton. Huron. Hutchinson.
254 38 227 84 360 11 441 "...223
fit. J o h n . lola. Jamestown. Winchester. Jennings. Jewell. Johnson. Leon.
Kansas Kanoradi) Kaw Kensington Keystone Kickapoo Kilwinning Kincaid King David K i n g Solomon ICingsdown Kiowa Kirwin
307 443 272 405 102 4 265 338 416 10 447 293 175
Herington. Kanorado. Kansas City. Kensington. Coffey ville. Potter. Pratt. Klncaid. Chanute. Leavenworth. Kingsdown. Greensburg. Kirwin.
LaOrosse
330
LaCrosse.
OF THE Name. LaCygne Lafayette LaHarpe Lake Landmark Lane Larned Latham Lawrence Leavenworth Lebanon Lebo Lccompton Lenexa Lenora Leoti Lewis Lincoln Lindsborg Lin wood Logan L o n g Island Longton Lotus Luray Lyra
February, No. 61 16 325 50 218 339 167 401 6 2 221 152 420 135 181 340 220 154 397 241 264 231 20 2S6 153 256
Location. LaCygne. Manhattan. LaHarpe. Silver L a k e . M o u n d Valley. Lane. Lamed. Latham. Lawrence. Leavenworth Scandia. Lebo. Lecompton Lenexa. Lenora. Leoti. Lewis. Lincoln. Lindsborg. Lin wood. Logan. Long i s l a n d . Longton. BlUf M o u n d . Luray. McLouth.
Mackey 48 M a c k s ville 371 Madison 190 Mankato 87 Maple City 342 M a p l e Hill .•i70 Alarmaton 245 Marquette 353 Marysville 91 Mayetta 393 McCracken 58 McDonald 383 McKinley 41 McPherson 172 Medicine Vallev....200 Melody 400 Melvern 22 Memphis 108 Meriden 236 Meridian 120 Milan 255 Millbrook 281 M i l t o n vale 242 Minneapolis 143 Minneola 431 Mistletoe 269 Moline 267 Morland 414 Morrill 373 Morton 258 Mound City 33 Moundridge 346 M o u n t a i n Slope...186 Mount Hope 238 M o u n t Moriah 179 M o u n t Vernon 145 M o u n t Zion 266 Mulberry 261 Mullinville 399 Mulvane 201 Munden 128 Muscotah 116 Mystic Tie 74
Effingham. MacKsville. Madison. Mankalo. ISiaple C i t y . M a p l e Hill. Moran. Marquette. Marysville. Mayetta. McCracken. McDonald. Pomona. McPherson. Lake City. Ottawa. Melvern. Garland. Meriden. E l k Falls. Milan. Hill City. M i l t o n vale. Minneapolis. Minneola. C o n w a y Springs Moline. Morland. Morrill. Cheney. M o u n d City. Moimdridge. Oberlin. Mount Hope Kinsley. Beloit. Nortonville Mulberry. MuUinvilleMulvane Munden. Muscotah Augusta.
Naphtali Narka Natoma Nemaha Neosho Newahcuba New Albany
Almena. Narka. Natoma. Coming. Le R o y . Stockton. New Albany.
310 349 390 13 27 ri89 81
GRAND LODGE OF
1926-27 Name. Newton Nickerson Nine Mile Nlnnescah Norcatur Norton Norwich Oak Oak Hill Oakley Occidental Oketo Olathe Olive Olive Branch Onaga Oneida Orient Osage Valley Oskaloosa Ottawa Overland Park Oxford Pacific Palestine Palmyra Paola Paradise Parker Parkerville Parsons Patmos Peace Perrv Phillipsburg Piper . Pittsburg Plains Polar Star Pottawatomie Powhattan Prairie Queen Preston Pretty Prairie Protection Prudence Quenemo Quinter Randall Reno Republic Rexford Richmond Ridgeway Rising Sun Robinson Rob Morris R. E. Sherman Rosalia Rosedale Royal Russell Sabetha SafTordville Salem Salina Saltville Samaria Santa Fe Saqui : Satanta Scammon Scottsville Scranton Sedgwick Selden Seneca Severance Sharon Springs
No. 142 43 49 230 317 199 319 287 334 253 207 25 19 350 212 188 323 51 24 14 18 436 165 29 127 23 37 290 341 168 117 97 243 415 184 385 187 367 130 52 363 176 283 428 3S4 100 270 410 304 140 123 442 426 62 8 159 332 369 433 333 192 177 162 395 228 60 59 298 312 160 446 351 249 407 139 423 39 313 ....417
Location. Newton. Nickerson. Lansing. Kingman. Norcatur. Norton. Norwich, Lebanon. Oak Hill. Oakley. Alton Oketo. . Olathe. Elgin. Colony. Onaga. Oneida. Topeka. Osawatomie. Oskaloosa. Ottawa. Overland Park. Oxford. Humboldt. Edgerton. Baldwin. Paola. Plainville. Parker. Parkerville. Parsons. El Dorado. Loulsburg. Perry. Phlllipsburg. Piper. Pittsburg. Plains. Netawaka.. St. Marys. Powhattan. Clyde. Cimarron. Pretty Prairie. Protection. Columbus. Quenemo. Qulnter. Randall. Hutchinson. Republic. Rexford. Richmond. Overbrook. Fort Scott. Robinson. Preston. Kansas City. Rosalia. Kansas City. Lyons. Russell. Sabetha. Saffordville. Esbon. Salina. Barnard. Wilson. Sublette. Osborne. Satan ta. Scammon. Scottsville. Scranton. Sedgwick. Selden. Seneca. Severance. Sharon Springs.
831
KANSAS.
Name. No. Shawnee 54 Signal 141 Siloam 225 Sincerity 241 Smithton 1 Soldier 240 Solomon City 105 Spearville 388 Splvey 347 Spring Hill 56 St. Bernard 222 Saint Francis 404 St. John's 113 St. Thomas 306 Stafford 252 Stanley 444 Sterling 171 Stohrville :....368 Sumner 203 Summorfield 354 Sunflower 86 Sutton 85 Sylvan Grove 359 Sylvia 391 Syracuse 309 Temple 237 Thayer 149 Topeka 17 Towanda 30 Troy 55 Turner 425 Turon 358 Tuscan 82 Twin Grove 213 Tyrian 246 Tyro 386 Ulysses 435 Union 7 Unity 273 Urbana 239 Valley Center 364 Valley Falls 21 Vermillion 320 Vesper 136 Virainia 315 Vulcan 229 Wakarusa 402 Wa-Keeney 148 Wakefield 396 Waldron 377 Wallace 318 Walnut City 215 Walnut Valley 191 Wamego 75 Washington 5 Wathena 64 Wa%'erly 244 Webb 275 Wellington 150 Wellsville 356 Western Star 174 West Gate 438 Westmoreland 257 Wetmore 53 White City 380 White Cloud 78 Whiting 250 Wichita 99 Wilmore 412 Wilsey 382 Wlndom 276 Winfleld 110 Woodson 121 Wyandotte 3 Xenia Zenda Zereriatha
47 378 80
Location. Shawnee. Osage City. Topeka. Simpson. Highland, Soldier. Solomon. Spearville. Spivey. Spring Hill. Dodge City. Saint Francis. Concordia. Colby. Stafford. Stanley. Sterling. Bluff City. Caldwell. Summerfleld. Wichita. Waterville. Sylvan Grove. Sylvia. Syracuse. McCune. Thayer. Topeka. Towanda. Troy. Turner. Turon. Neosho Falls. Severy. Garden City. Tyro. Ulysses. Junction City. Clearwater. Urbana. Valley Center. Valley Falls. Vermillion. Sedan. Savon burg. Walnut. Wakarusa. Wa-Keeney. Wakefield. Waldron. Wallace. Rush Center. Ness City. Wamego. Atchison. Wathena. Waverly. Meade. Wellington. Wellsvllle. Smith Center. Kansas City. Westmoreland. Wetmore. White City. White Cloud. Whiting. Wichita. Wilmore. Wilsey. Windom. Winfleld. Toronto. Kansas City. Xenla. Zenda. Cottonwood Falls.
832
PROCEEDINGS
OF
THE
February,
LIST OF LODGES BY COUNTIES. County. Allen
Name.
Location.
No. 20 38 326 245 315
lola
212 44 211 338 305 5 158 48 72 4 116
Potter
Clafiin
Delta Claflin
Hoisington Fort Scott Eldora
263 278 260 77 424 217 15 331 268 92 8 210 108 216 28 115 47 185 35 326 373 363 159
Butler EI Dorado
74 439 151 97 401 223 434 30
SaflordvlUe
80 395
Elgin
Olive
355 350 136 71 100 194 351 274
Weir Saint Francis
404
1926-27.
GRAND LODGE OF
833
KANSAS.
LIST OF LODGES BY COUNTIES—Continued. Location.
County.
Name.
431 277
Clark. Olay.
Cloud
No.
Clifton
Clifton
Oak Hill Wakefield Clyde
Oak Hill Wakefield Prairie Queen
134 122 296 334 396 176 113 292 227 242 66 314 152 27 244 295 384 412
Winfield
Maple City Winfield
133 233 156 342 110 329 408 119 124 93 398 237 261 187 229
Pittsbiirg Walnut
360 186 317 98 280 437 307 288 106
Troy
Troy
White Cloud
White Cloud
440 31 1 313 55 64 78 23 83 6 9 420
Lewis
179 220
834
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
LIST OF LODGES BY COUNTIES—Continued.
County.
Name.
Location.
No.
Elk..
Elk Falls.. Grenola... Howard... Longton... Mollne
Meridian.. Canopy Hope Longton... Moline
126 248 1S5 26 267
ElUs
Ellis... Hays.. Ellsworth.. Holyrood.. "Wilson
Apollo.. Hays
297 195
Ellsworth.. Holyrood.. Samaria....
146 343 298
Finney Ford
Garden City.. Bucklln Dodge City.. Kingsdown... Spearville
Franklin..
Lane Ottawa Ottawa Pomona Richmond Wellsville Williamsburg... Junction City.. Gove Grainfleld.. Grinnell....: Quinter Hill City.. Morland...
Tyrian.. Grand View.. St. Bernard.. Kingsdown.... Spearville Lane Ottawa Melody McKinley.. Richmond.. Wellsville... Anchor Union Gove City.. Grainfleld... Grinnell Quinter
302 381 448 410
Millbrook.. Morland
281 414
Ulysses Cimarron.. Ensign
Ulysses.. Preston.. Ensign...
435
Horace... Climax Fidelity Greenwood.... Madison Twin Grove.. Hamilton...... Coolldge... Syracuse.. Anthony.... Attica Stohrville.. Freeport.... Harper Waldron.... Burrton Halstead.... Newton Sedgwick... Satan ta.... Santa Fe.. Alpha.......
352
Ellsworth
Geary.. Gove....
Graham Grant Gray Greeley Greenwood,
Hamilton.. Harper
Harvey Haskell Hodgeman
Horace.. Climax Eureka Fall River.. Madison Severy Hamilton... CooUdge.. Syracuse.. Anthony Attica Bluff City.. Freeport Harper AYaldron Burrton Halstead Newton Sedgwick... Satan ta.. Sublette.. I Jetmore..
246 376 222 447 388 339 18 400 41 426 356 224
283 413
411 106 163 196 213 301 316 309 200 262 368 389 206 377 182 46 142 139 446 312 282
1926-27.
GRAND LODGE OF
835
KANSAS.
LIST OP LODGES BY COUNTIES—Continued. County.
Location.
Hoyt
Name.
Hoyt
Mt. Zion Valley Falls
Valley Falls
No. 20 419 372 42 327 393 130 240 250 236 266 14 266 21 84 415 178 228 336 11 87 304
Esbon
De Soto
De Soto
Olathe
Olathe
Spring Hill
Spring Hill
40 127 65 136 19 436 64 66 444 432 289 427 230 319 347 378 293 409 399 69 73 345 218 63 117
Edna
Lane
279 Boling
365 45 311 49 2 10 68 241 190
Saltville
59 164 369
Fort Leavenworth
Svivan Grove
836
PROCEEDINGS
OF
THE
February,
L I S T OP LODGES BY COUNTIES—Continued. Countv.
Location.
Name.
No.
Linn..
Blue Mound.. La Cygne Mound City.. Parker Pleasanton
Lotus La Cygne Mound City.. Parker Eiu-eka
280 61 33 341
Logan..
Oaliley,
Oakley..
253
Lyon....
Allen Amerlcus.. Emporia..., Hartford..
Allen Amerlcus.. Emporia... Hartford...
336
Marlon..
Florence.. Marlon.... Peabody..
Advance.. Center Halcyon..
114 147 120
Marshall..
Axtell Beattie Blue Rapids.. Frankfort Irving MarysvlUe Oketo Summerileld.. Vermillion Water ville
Axtell Beattie Blue Rapids.. Frankfort Blue Valley... MarysvlUe Oketo Summerfleld.. Vermillion Sutton
234 259 169 67 112 91 25 354 320 85
McPherson..
Canton Galva McPherson... Moundrldge,. Windoni Marquette Lindsborg
Canton Galva McPherson.... Moundridge.. Windom Marquette Lindsborg
197 251 172 346 276 358 397
Meade..
Meade.. Plains...
Webb.. Plains..
275 367
Miami..
Fontana Louisburg Osawatomie.. Paola
Equity Peace Osage Valley.. Paola
131 243 24 37
MitcheU..
Beloit Cawker City., Glen Elder Simpson Scotts ville
Mt. Vernon.... Cawker City.. Glen Elder Sincerity Scotts ville
145 125 294 214 249
Montgomery..
Caney Cherryvale Cofleyville Elk City Independence.. Tyro
Caney Cherryvale.. Keystone Carson Fortitude Tyro
324 137 102 132 107 386
Morris..
Burdick Council Grove.. Delavan Dwight ParkerviUe White City Wilsey
Burdick Council Grove.. Delavan Dwight ParkerviUe White City Wilsey
429° 36 375 374 168 380 382
Morton..
Elkhart..
Elkhart..
422
8S
109 12 193
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF
837
KAA'SAS.
L I S T OF LODGES BY COUNTIES—Continued. County.
Name.
Location,
Gofl
Erie
Goff
King D a v i d
Walnut Valley Norton
No.
89 13 430 323 162 39 53 103 416 76 149 239 191 310 181 199
Euclid
79 70 101 22 141 62 270 407 207 204 390 160
Ottawa
180 202 143
Pawnee
167
PhlUlpB
176 264 231 184 387 392 34 188 52 75 257
Pratt
394 265 332
Pratt
164 383
BawUns Bene
Cable Hutchinson Pretty Prairie Sylvia Turon
Sylvia Turon
299 208 140 446 43 428 391 .368
838
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
LIST OF LODGES BY COUNTIES—Continued. Location.
County.
Name.
No. 129 362 128 349 123 221
Republic
Sterling
308 247 337 361 219 192 171 235 16 166 344
Codell
Codell
290 189 418 330 58 215 291 198 153 177 209 328 60 284 258 273 238 364 86 99 303 433 300 32 138 111 50 17 51 90 225 402 348 423 321 443
Western Star
183 405 287 174
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE OF
839
KANSAS.
LIST OF LODGES BY COUNTIES—Concluded. County.
Name.
Location.
Stafford,
Macksville Stafford St. John
Macksville Stafford Ionic
No. 371 252 254
Stanton
Johnson
Johnson
441
Stevens.
Hugoton
Hugoton
406
Sumner.
Argonia Belle Plaine OaldwoU Conway Springs Milan Mulvane Oxford Scuth Haven Wellington
Argonia Belle Plaine Sumner Mistletoe Milan Mulvane Oxford Haven Wellington
285 173 203 269 255 201 165 157 150
Thomas
Colby
St. Thomas
Rexford
Rexford
306 442
Wa-Keeney
Wa-Keeney
Alma Alta Vista Eskridge Harvey vllle Maple Hill Wallace Sharon Springs.. Greenleaf Haddam Linn Washington
Alma Alta Vista Eminence Harvey ville Maple Hill Wallace Sharon Springs Greenleaf Dirigo Fraternal Frontier
Trego Wahaunsee.
Wallace Washington..
148 161 357 205 421 370 318 417 232 226 170 104
Wichita..
Leoti
Leoti
340
Wilson
Altoona Benedict BulTalo Coyville Fredonia Neodesha New Albany
Altoona Benedict Buffalo Coyville Constellation Harmony New Albany
118 403 379 57 95 94 81
Woodson..
Neosho Falls Toronto Yates Center
Tuscan Woodson Gilead
8^ 121 144
Wyandotte..
Bonner Springs.. Kansas City Kansas City Kansas City Kansas City Kansas City Kansas City Kansas City Piper Turner White Church
Bonner Springs Wyandotte Armourdale Kaw Ben Hur Kosedale Roger B. Sherman West Gate Piper Turner Delaware
366 3 271 272 322 333 369 438 385 425 96
Alien
Location.
Wheaton
Opolis
Allen
Location.
County.
Chikaskla
Alien
Name.
Pottawatomie.. Wheaton
L e a v e n w o r t h . . . Adelpha
1870
1868 1858
1860
1866
Disp. Bel'ii.
g
37
335 62 253 285 26 30
No. 1891 1867 1891 1887 1859 1860
15, 1861
18, 15, 18. 16, 18, 16,
Oct. 19. 1S57
Oct
Feb. Oct. Feb. Feb. Oct. Oct.
Chartered.
Remarks.
J a n . 3 , 1912 Oct. 14, 1861 Oct. 2 1 , 1863
Oct. 2 1 , 1869
( D r o p p e d from roll a c c o u n t or-
j Consolidated w i t h M t , H o p e 1 L o d g e N o . 238, F e b . 2,1894,
Remarks.
( C o l o r a d o in 1862. 1 Dispensation issued as Big Oct. 16, 1867 < Springs L o d g e , b u t n a m e after(wards changed to Shawnee.
1, 1923
Charter Revoked. Mar.
(DEFUNCT.)
j N o meetings were be)d, a n d dispensation was r e t u r n e d i to the Grand Master.
( A u r a r i a Lodge, it was deemed b e s t t o h a v e b u t one lodge.
("Dispensation was r e t u r n e d t o G r a n d M a s t e r , w i t h a s t a t e -
( M a s t e r r e p o r t e d t h a t no meetings h a d been held, and •J owing t o absence of m e m b e r s , a n d need of s u i t a b l e r o o m , (dispensation was r e t u r n e d .
Charter Surrendered.
1887 1898 1904
1881 1884
1900
1859
Disp. Bev'k'd.
CHARTERED LODGES
1899 1868 1857 1878 1884 1868 1885 1896 1903
1860
1857
Denver
Leavenworth,...
1923
Disp. Issued.
1863
Allen
Name.
Coffey
Counly.
DEFUNCT LODGES.
LODGES UNDER DISPENSATION. BUT NEVER CHARTERED.
to o
b
I
to o
^3
o
00
20 17 19 21 18, 18 21 20 21 18 21
Feb. Feb. Oct. Oct.
15 22 18 18
26 Oct. 16 13 Oct. 18
Leavenworth.... Landmark...,
Lecompton...
Leavenworth
34 Oct, 21
69 216 25 170
M a y 9, 1919 Dec. 17, 1883 Dec. 17, 1892 Dec. 17, 1881
Oct. 18, 1876
Oct, 21, 1863
with
Halcyon
(.rado in 1862.
fConsolidated with Bourbon •< LodgeNo. 8,and name changed ( t o Rising Sun Lodge N o . 8. 1 Dropped from roll account or< ganization Grand Lodge Ind. (.Ter. in 1878. (Dropped from roll account or-
(Consolidated with Bluff City
(.supposed to be in Jackson.
(Records fail to show county in
j Consolidated
j Charter issued direct by Grand 1 Lodge. February 17, 1868. J Consolidated with Godfrey 1 Lodge N o . 124, Mar. 26, 1894.
fConsolidated with Westmore•( land Lodge N o . 257, M a y 18, (.1894.
1862
f LocationchangedtoSilverLake, Oct. 17, 1877 •< Oct. 21, 1868. N a m e changed (.to Great Light. Oct. 20. 1869. (Consol. with King Solomon 1866 1 Lodge N o . 10. Oct. 18.1876. r Dispensation issued as Land1867 Oct. 19, 1870 -< mark Lodge, but charter issued (.in name of St. John's Lodge. 1858 Oct. 17, 1865
1882 1883 1859 1876
34 Oct. 16. 1860
122 Oct. 16, 1872
46 Oct. 17, 1865
60 Oct. 16
Lecompton
1860
Feb. 18, X897 1889 1898 Feb. 19, 1903 1890 Sept. 21,.1896 1874 1876 . 1883 1886 Jan. 17, 1894 1874 1870 Mar. 22, 1879 Oct. 15, 1879 1874 1858 Oct. 21, 1863 1894 Feb. 16. 1910
67 Oct. 20 1868 301 Feb. 15 1888
Leavenworth.... Cavalry
Indianola
Star Triune Leavenworth.... H i g h Prairie Ida
Golden City,
Feb. Feb. Feb. Oct. Oct. Feb. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Feb.
20 Oct. 16
313 325 325 153 164 164 148 87 152 12 353
337 Feb. 18 1891
Leavenworth
High Prairie Ida
Golden City
Rising Sun...
Fort Scott
Alpha
Frankfort Lily
Frankfort
Elk City
Washington
Bluff City.... Bluff City.... Ford Bucklin Cato Chautauqua .... Cedar Vale... Chautauqua .... Myrtle Butler Whitewater., Ashlar Wyandotte Breckenridse... Composite.... Emporia Enterprise.... Elk Creek....
Bluff City Bluff City Bucklin Oato Cedar Vale
Clifford Clinton Edwards vlUe
Pottawatomie.. Blaine
Blaine
00
to
>^
o >^
ts
o b n
§
So
Paris
Olivet
Location.
Name.
Coffey
16, 17, 19, 16, 17, 21,
Paris Perry
Osage Valley
22 Oct. 2 1 , 1 52 Oct. 16,
69 Oct. 21
69 Oct. 2 1 ,
11 Oct. 18,
12S Oct. 17,
Oct. 18,
F e b . 16, F e b . 20, Oct. 20,
Valley
30 363 92 24
30 Oct. 16,
Valley
231 F e b . 20,
36 Oct. 15,
Oct. Feb. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct.
Charter Revoked.
( F i r s t d i s p ' n issued April 7, < 1864. recalled b y G.-. M.-., (second Sept. 2 7 , 1 8 6 4 .
1 Consol. w i t h K e y s t o n e Lodge ( N o . 102. M a r c h 22, 1918.
Bemarks.
1879 Dec. . 6 , 1894 1881 F e b . 2 1 , 1895 1871 J a n 13, 1888 1866 Oct. 20, 1875 1867 F e b . 15, 1888 j N a m e c h a n g e d in 1870 t o Ionic 1869 Oct. 18. 1879 ( Lodge. f D r o p p e d from roll a c c o u n t or1861 ( C o l o r a d o in 1862. 1884 ' Consolidated with Newton ( L o d g e N o . 142. J u n e 2 8 , 1901. 1867 ) Consolidated with L a w r e n c e 1 Lodge N o . 6, O c t . 18, 1876. 1882 M a r . 5, 1887 1902 F e b . 20, 1908 1870 J a n . . 19, 1897 ( D i s p ' n issued as Osawatomle 1859 Oct. 2 1 , 1863 (.Valley Lodge. (Consol. w i t h Franlilin Lodge 1872 •^No. 18, N o v . 24, 1906, as (.Ottawa Lodge N o . 18. 1858 Oct. 18, 1871 j C h a r t e r revolted O c t . 2 1 , 1863, I b u t restored O c t . 16, 1866. 1874 i N o . 37, Oct. 18, 1870. j Dispensation issued as Lincoln 1868 Oct. 17, 1871 1 Lodge. 1862 Oct. 18, 1871 1867 Oct. 17, 1877
5 , 1888
253 F e b . 19, 1885 Dec.
Charter Surrendered.
1, 1896
Chartered.
123 Oct. 17, 1872 315 F e b . 20, 1889 J a n .
No.
180 192 86 43 M t . Pleasant 58 N e o s h o Rapids.... 77
Montgomery.... L i b e r t y
County.
CHARTERED LODGES (DEFUNCT)—Concluded.
•
1
O
^
Cn
to
o o
Pratt
Saline
J o h n H . Brown...
Owen A. Bassott Pomona...! Richfield
WlnQeld
Walton Bralnerd..
Walton AVhitG W a t e r
Butler
Virginia City..
Virginia C i t y
Mt. Moriah Saratoga Perfect S q u a r e . Seneca...' Leavenworth.... Springdale Stanton Zion Tecumseh T i m b e r Ridee.... Leavenworth.... Dick Eees Trading Post Blooming Grove. Twin Falls Olive Greenwood Ark
Salt L a k e City..
Kichfleld
Pittsburg Feb. Oct. Feb. Feb.
17. 16, 15, 22,
F e b . 18, F e b . 22, Oct. 18, F e b . 15, Oct. 18, Oct. 19, Oct. 18, Oct. 17, Oct. 21, Oct. 16, Feb. 19, 1886 1883 1863 1882 1859 1871 1858 1867 1863 1879 1885
58 F e b . 20, 1889
15. 21, 6, 10,
1883 1874 1887 1905
5, 1895
J a n . 24, 1902
Sept. Oct. •Ian. Dec.
323 F e b , 19, 1890 Aug. 280 F e b . 16, 1887
43 Dec. 20, 1864
216 220 39 152 18 108 15 59 41 181 243 Sept. 3, 1887
1904 1872 N o v . 16, 1901 1888 F e b . 17, 1892 1894
70 Oct. 2 1 , 1868
367 138 303 21G
F e b . 24, 1927
F e b . i s , 1885
having
(Consol. with Adelphl Lodge ^ N o . 110, F e b . 19, 1903, as 1 Winfleld Lodge N o . 110.
i M o n t a n a in 1866.
( D r o p p e d from roll account or-
of dlsp'n Oct. 2 1 , 1863 I(bNeoe n record issued.
F e b . 17, 1892 F e b . 20, 1908 Oct. 20, 1875
( Consol. w i t h Salina Lodge N o . 1 60, April 29, 1907 D r o p p e d from roll a c c o u n t or< ganization G r a n d Lodge of (.Utah in 1872.
j Consolidated with P i t t s b u r g 1 Lodge N o . 187, J u l y 2 9 , 1 9 1 1 .
Co
o t) o
b
to
844
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
GRAND LODGES I N CORRESPONDENCE WITH T H E GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS; ALSO THE NAMES AND ADDRESSES OF GRAND SECRETARIES. Alabama Arizona
GEORGE A. BEAUCHAMP GEORGE J. ROSKRUGE
Montgomery. Tucson.
Arkansas
FAY HEMPSTEAD
Little Rock.
California Colorado Connecticut
JOHN WHICHER WILLIAM W . COOPER GEORGE A. K I E S
San Francisco. Denver. Hartford.
-r, ,
r
I^elaware
JOHN F . ROBINSON
T. ^
(F.O. Box 1227, jwilmington.
District of Columbia....J. CLAUDE KEIPER
Washington.
Florida Georgia Idaho Illinois Indiana
WILBER P. WEBSTER FRANK F . BAKER CURTIS F . P I K E OWEN SCOTT WILLIAM H . SWINTZ
Jacksonville. Macon. Boise. Decatur. Indianapolis.
Iowa
CHARLES C . HUNT
Cedar Rapids.
Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland
ALBERT K . WILSON FRED W . HARDWICK JOHN A. DAVILLA CHARLES B . DAVIS GEORGE COOK
Topeka. Louisville. New Orleans. Portland. Baltimore.
,,
„
,
Massachusetts
„^ „
-
f209 Mas. Temple,
FREDERICK W . HAMILTON..^ g^g^.^^^
Michigan
Lou B . WINSOR
Grand Rapids.
Minnesota Mississippi Missouri ^Montana
JOHN FISHEL EDWARD L . FAUCETTE FRANK R . JESSE LUTHER T . HAUBERG
St. Paul. Meridian. St. Louis. Helena, Box 896.
Nebraska Nevada
LEWIS E . SMITH
{Smahfa^^' '^^'"^^^'
New Jersey
ISAAC CHERRY
j Trenton.
New Mexico
ALPHEUS A. K E E N
New York
fMasonic Hall, ROBERT J. KENW0RTHY....|j^g^ York City.
fl43 E. State St., Albuquerque.
North Carolina North Dakota
WILLIAM W . WILLSON WALTER L . STOCKWELL ,, ^ ^
Raleigh. Fargo. m Ceotral Office Bide.,
Ohio
HIRAM S . JOHNSON
jcincinnati.
Oklahoma
W M . M . ANDERSON
Guthrie.
Oregon Pennsylvania
D. RUFUS CHENEY JOHN A. PERRY
Portland. Philadelphia.
'
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
845
Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota
S. PENROSE WILLIAMS O. FRANK HART GEORGE A. PETTIGREW
Providence. Columbia. Sioux Falls.
Tennessee Texas
STITH M . CAIN WILLIAM B . PEARSON
Nashville. Waco.
Utah
SAM H . GOODWIN
Salt Lake City.
Vermont Virginia
HENRY H . ROSS JAMES M . CLIPT
Burlington. Richmond.
Washington
HORACE WALTER TYLER
Tacoma.
West Virginia Wisconsin
GEORGE S . LAIDLEY W M . W . PERRY
Charleston. Milwaukee.
Wyoming
JOSEPH M . LOWNDES
Casper.
Alberta
S. Y. TAYLOR
British Columbia
W. A. DEWOLF-SMITH
Canadia/.
W M . MCGREGOR LOGAN
XT,
Calgary. (P. O. Box 910, -j j ^ ^ ^ Westminster. Hamilton.
fCasilla2867,
Chile
AGUSTIN L PALMA
jsantiago.
Colombia
MIGUEL A. GARCIA
JBarranquilla.
Costa Rica, C. A ^ , Cuba Ecuador
GEORGE F . BOWDEN San Jose. T ^ ^ (Havana, JOSE F.. CASTELLANOS j Apartado 72. Luis W. GARCIA MoRENO....Guayaquil. (Freemason Hall,
England
P. COLVILLE SMITH
fApartado 61,
1 London.
Guatemala
EDWARD B . COFFEY
Honduras
S.HERNANDEzYHERNANDEZ.Tegucigalpa. (Freemason Hall,
Ireland
,
Manitoba
HENRY C . SHELLARD
JAMES A. OvAS
Mexico (York G.-.L.-.)CHARLES I. ARNOLD
Guatemala, C. A.
j Dublin.
Winnipeg. f P. O. Box 1986, (Mexico City
New Brunswick
J. TWINING HARTT
St. John.
New South Wales
DAVID CUNNINGHAM
| Castiereagh St.
New Zealand
GEORGE BARCLAY
j Wellington
Nova Scotia
JAMES C . JONES „ , „
Panama
D. LESLIE SASSO
fP. O. Box322, Halifax. (Apartado 350,
-"IPanama.
846
PROCEEDINGS
Peru
MANUEL YABAR DAVILA.
^ . .,. . ^ , , Philippine Islands Prince Edward Isl
^. ^ ^ NEWTON C . COMFORT ERNEST KEMP
T,
r,.
r
^
OF THE
February,
jApartado No. 587, (Lima. ( P . O . Box 990, [Manila Charlottetown. fP- O- ^OX 747,
m
Puerto Kico
JOSE G . TORRES
Quebec
W. WALTER WILLIAMSON.... j ]y[ontfeal
Queensland
,
•
CHARLES H . HARLBY
.
„
,,
„
1 San Juan fP. 0 . Box 3172, Brisbane, Box 675.
fSan Salvador,
Salvador, C. A
CARLOS MUNOZ BARILLAS, jj^j^^^^i^ t e m p l e .
Saskatchewan
W. B. TATE
Scotland
THOMAS G . WINNING
South Australia
CHARLES R . J. GLOVER
Regina. Edinburgh.
Adelaide. f 117 Macquarie St., i jjoi,art
Tasmania
W. H. STRUTT
Victoria
WILLIAM STEWART
Melbourne.
Western Australia
J. D. STEVENSON
Perth.
GRAND
1926-27.
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
847
GRAND REPRESENTATIVES OF THE GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS NEAR OTHER GRAND LODGES.
Alabama Alberta Arizona Arkansas British Columbia California Canada Chile Colombia Colorado Connecticut Costa Rica Cuba Delaware
,
Florence. R.-. W.-. E N E Y F . YIELDING Calgary. R.-. W.-.S. J. BLAIR .JAMES H . BARRETT Douglas. M.'. W..LOUIS BAUERLEIN Camden. M.-. W.(Vancouver, M.-.W.- .ANDREW M C C . CHEERY | g 2 2 Richards St. System not recognized. (Box 97, Trenton, R.-. W.-.R. H. SPENCER jontario. (•Santiago, R.-. W.-
.MAXIMIANO FLORES
jcasiUa 2895.
R.-. W.fApartado 72, R.-. W.-.ViRGiuo DE LA CRUZ ..iBarranquilla. Denver. R.-. W.-.WILLIAM H . SANFORD . HOWARD A. MIDDLETON....Broad Brook. R.-. W..ADOLFO CANAS San Jose. R.-. W.-. F E L I X V. PRBVAL. Havana. M.-. W.- • A. VICTOR HUGHES Wilmington. (Washington, |Masonic Temple. Districtof Columbia ..M.-. W.-.T. JOHN NEWTON 1 %l. Guzman & Hijos, Ecuador R.-. W.-.. J.. GABRIEL PINO ROCA.. < Apartado Uira "(j", ( Guayaquil. England ...Jacksonville. Florida R.-. W.-.HARRY B . MINIUM .P. T. McCuTCHEN Franklin. Georgia R.-. W.(Pasaje Aguirre -JNo.S.Guatemala. Guatemala R.-. Wv.SAMUEL E . FRANCO... Honduras Idaho Illinois Indiana lo-wa Ireland Kentucky Louisiana Maine Manitoba Maryland Massachusetts
Rosa de R.-. W.-,.FEDBRICO C . CANALES... (Santa (_Copan. Boise. M.-.W.-.SHERMAN M . COFFIN (Chicago, M.-.W.- .GEORGE M . MouLTON.jggn Mich. Ave. South Bend. R.-. W.-.RUDOLF H . HORST System not recognized. (Dublin. 7 Emor < g^. g Q R ^ R.-. W.-.RICHARD WALSH System not recognized. Shreveport. R.-. W.-.HENRY S . WESTON Lewiston. R.-. W.-..ARCHIE L . TALBOT Winnipeg. R.-. W.-..JABEZ MILLER Frederick. R.-. W.-..JACOB ROHRBACK System not recognized.
848
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
T T XT Mexico (York G.-.L.-.)R'- W/ .JOHN I. NEWELL Michigan R / . W.' Minnesota
February,
fApartado No. 40, •< T,
•
•
(^ i ampico.
. W M . H . GALLAGHER
Allegan.
New Jersey
R / . W.' .MONTREVILLEj.BROWNleJg s t h ' s t . S. E. R/. W.'•.ROBERT W . HINTON, jR...Lumberton. R / . W. •. CHARLES L . WOODS RoUa. M / . W :•. ROBERT J . HATHAWAY Glendive. R.'. W. •.HENRY H . H E I L E R Hastings. R.-. W/. CHARLES A. THOMPSON ....Pioche. R/. W.' . G E S N B R A . TAYLOR Dorchester. r49 Prospect St., R.". W/.ARTHUR POTTERTON jj^^^^y ^^^^
New Mexico New Soutii Wales New York
System not recognized. R/. W/ .ALFRED J . BURBIDGE ...R/. W.'.ALBERT C . BURDICK
Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Brunswick
New Zealand
R/. W/,. EARNEST
Sydney. Lowville.
fP. O. Box 2, WARNES
{oreymouth.
North Carolina North Dakota Nova Scotia Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Panama Pennsylvania
R.-. W/.M. C. S. NOBLES Chapel Hill. .....R/. W.' .HANS A. M O E Churchs Ferry. R/. W.'. J O H N G . MITCHELL Halifax. R.-. W.•. CHARLES L . M I N O R Springfield. R.-. W.'. M A H L O N F . MANVILLE ....Ada. R/. W. •.WALTER 0 . H A I N E S Portland. R/. W.- .ABRAHAM FRANKEL Colon. System not recognized. . _ f City Hall, Philippine Islands R.'. W.'•.HARVEY A. B O R D N E R . . . . | J ^ ^ J J J J ^ Prince Edward Isl Puerto Rico Quebec Queensland
R.-. W/.WILLIAM G . MCDONALD..Montague. R.-. W'.FEDERICO ; VALL-SPiNOSA..San Juan. M/. W.'•.EDWARD A. EVANS Quebec. ^ „ fBrisbane, R/. W.'.JAMES C . ROBERTS (Adelaide St.
Rhode Island Salvador Saskatchewan
R.-. W/.JOHN R . D E N N I S R.-. W.'.CARLOS D'AUBUISSON R/. W /.W. M. MARTIN
Scotland
R/. W.-.J. S. M . GRIEVE
Providence. San Salvador.
Regina.
f The Frond,
juddingston.
( Adelaide, South Australia
:..R/. W.•. WILLIAM
HENRY ESSEX I ( W.' .ARTHUR V. WILLIAMS W.'•.JAMES B . VAUGHN
South Carolina South Dakota
R/. R/.
Tasmania
^ „r ^r R.\ W/..DAVID W . W A T S O N
Tennessee Texas
R/. W/.HALLUM W . GOODLOE M.-.W/. WILLIAM CLARK
Bank of Adelaide, King William St. Charleston. Castlewood.
fCoUins St., jnobart. Nashville. Jefferson.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE OF
849
KANSAS.
Utah Vermont
M W.-. ARTHUR C . WHERRY M W.'. HENRY H . ROSS
Victoria
R.". W.'.EDWARD THOMAS APPS..• \Fitzroy.
Virginia
R.' W.-.HENRY M . BOYKIN
Salt Lake City. Burlington.
C74 Moor St.,
Washington
Richmond. R.-. W.'. WALTER J. THOMPSON ....Tacoma.
Western Australia
R.-. W . - . F R E D S . F I N C H .
West Virginia Wisconsin
R.". W . ' . P A R E H . LORENTZ M.".W.-. DAVID HARLOWS
Wyoming
System not recognized.
(• Wesley Manse, (Midland Junct. Buckhannon. Milwaukee.
850
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
GRAND REPRESENTATIVES OF OTHER GRAND LODGES NEAR THE GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS. Alabama W / . J O H N M . KINKEL Alberta r W / . P A U L M . MARTIN Arkansas W.-.CLAYTON LEHMAN Arizona W.-.W. AMER BURNETT British Columbia W.-. A. PHILLIP LAPHAM California M / . W . - . W M . EASTON HUTCHISON Canada
M.-.W.-.CHARLES J W E B B
Topeka. Highland. Newton. Oberlin. Wetmore. Garden City. ] Q^.'
^Q'TII ^''
Chile ; W.-.FRED ROY ALFORD Fort Scott. Colombia W.•. ELLSWORTH B . S E WELL, JR Topeka. Colorado W.'.LAUREN D . RIGG Leon. Connecticut W.-.CLARENCE R . ATEN... Dodge City. Costa Rica W.-.AUSTIN J. PAIGE Abilene. Cuba W.-. ROY H . CLOSSBN Coffeyville. Delaware W.-. ELMER S. NANCE Oswego. Dist. of Columbia..R.-. W.-.FERRIS M . HILL Emporia. Ecuador R.-. W.-.JAY B . KIRK Tola. England R.-. W.-.ALBERT K . WILSON Topeka. Florida M.-.W.-.ELMER F . STRAIN Topeka. Georgia W.-. CLICK FOCKELB Le Roy. Guatemala W . - . L U C I E N L . CONSTANT Belle Plaine. Honduras W.-. FRANK D . SPERRY Ellsworth. Idaho W.-. STEPHEN A. D . GEAUQUB Manhattan. Illinois M.-.W.-.CHARLES N . FOWLER Salina. Indiana M.-.W.-.OWEN J . ' W O O D Topeka. Ireland W.-.JOHN DAVIS Belleville. Kentucky System not recognized. ' Louisiana W.-. HOMER T . HARDEN Wichita. Maine M.-.W.-.RICHARD E . BIRD Wichita. Manitoba W.-. HARRY B . GRAHAM Haven. Maryland W.-. MOSES H . COLE Harper. Massachusetts System not recognized. Mexico (York " ) „ „ , . „ „^ „ G- L - ) N - R - ' - W . - . A L B E R T K . WILSON Topeka. Michigan W.-. GEORGE T . MOHRBACHER Marysville. Minnesota W.-. CLARENCE E . FARNSWORTH....Hoisington. Mississippi W.-. EDWIN C . EAGLES Thayer. Missouri M.-.W.-.PERRY M . HOISINGTON Newton. Montana W.-. JAMES H . BEEGLE Neodesha. Nebraska W.-.EARL T . PYLE Clay Center. Nevada W.-. THEODORE H . DOHRER Arkansas City.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
851
New Brunswick W / . H A R R Y E . PEACH Emporia. New Jersey W . ' . G U Y W . BROWN Beloit. New Mexico System not recognized. New South Wales W.'.HARMON J. BOWER Norton. New York R.'. W.-.GEORGE F . BEEZLEY Girard. •»T rr , 1 .^T .r^ ^ ^ f KansEs City, Mo., New Zealand W.-.FRANK E . DAVIS ^^^^^ Wyandotte St. North Carolina W.".R. NELSON LONG Hoxie. North Dakota W.-. BRUCE GRIFFITH Wichita. Nova Scotia M.-.W.-.JOHN MCCULLAGH Galena. Ohio W.-.JOSEPH D . FELL Concordia. Oklahoma W.-.DAVID A. NYWALL Formoso. Oregon W.-. CHARLEY B . ERSKINE Cimarron. Panama W.-.JAMES A. CASSLER McPherson. Pennsylvania System not recognized. Philippine Islands W.-.RoY G. SHEARER Abilene. Prince Edward Isl W.-. MARION M . MILLER Longton. Puerto Rico ....M.-.W.-.WILLIAM L . BURDICK Lawrence. Quebec W.-. CHARLES W . MILLER, JR....Hays. Queensland M.-. W.-.ELRICK C . COLE Great Bend. Rhode Island R.-. W.-. W M . FRANK MARCH Lawrence. Saskatchewan W.-.JOHN B . FLEMING :..Hamilton. Scotland W.-. HARVEY O . DAVIS Anthony. South Australia W.-. RICHARD W . EVANS... Dodge City. South Carolina W.-.OTTO R . SOUDEBS Wichita. South Dakota M.-.W.-.CHARLES A. LoucKS Lakin. Tasmania M.-.W.'.BEN S. PAULEN Fredonia. Tennessee W.-.HUBERT H . HUBBARD Galena. Texas M.-.W.-.GILES H . LAMB Yates Center. Utah W.-.HAYES FLOYD ...Ness City. Vermont M.-.W.-.HENRY F . MASON...... Garden City. Victoria W.-. CLARENCE M . CROSBY St. Francis. Virginia W.-.BARLUS ROMSTEDT Ottawa. Washington W.-.STANFORD M . SMART Zenda. Western Australia M.-.W.-.THOMAS G . FITCH Wichita. West Virginia M.-.W.". JOHN W . NEILSON Concordia. Wisconsin....' W.-.GuY R. CURRIER Kensington. Wyoming System not recognized.
APPal TTIVE GRAND OFFICERS, 1926. (2) JAY B. KIRK, Grand Senior Deacon ; (3) GLICK Fo KELE, Gmnd ,ltUlior D eacon; (4) ALVA L. SWEARINGEN, Grand Marshal ; (5) WILLIAM B. P ENNY, Grand Sword Bearer; (6) CLAHENCE R . ATEN , Grand ellior teward; (7) FRANK D. SPERRY, Grand Junior Steward; ( ) HOMER '1'. HAnD EN, mnd Pursulvant ; (9) W. AMEn BUHNETT, Grand Tyler. (1) FRED E. BnOOKS, Gmlld C haplain;
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH —OF—
M.-. W/. J O H N W. N E I L S O N , GRAND MASTER OF MASONS OF KANSAS, FEBRUARY 25, 1926, TO FEBRUARY 24, 1927.
B Y THOMAS G. FITCH, P.-.G.-.M .
It is with mingled feelings of pride and pleasure the writer undertakes the work of preparation of a biographical sketch of one whom he has known so long and so favorably. More than a quarter of a century ago this acquaintance was formed and with it a friendship that has been continuous. Likewise, his relationship with others who have been active in Masonic and business affairs has been equally pleasant. He enjoys the respect and esteem, as well as confidence of all with whom he has been brought in contact, and it is merited. His geniality, fairness and regard for the rights of his fellowmen. Masons or profane, have endeared him to all of them. The services performed by our distinguished brother have been so many, it would be indeed difficult to enumerate them in a short sketch. M.-. W.". Brother NBILSON enjoys the benefit of good health and a good physique attained from right living and sturdy ancestry. He was born at Paris, Iowa, November 14,1872. His father, JAMES NEILSON was born near Glasgow, Scotland, and his mother MARIA E . HALL near Lima, Ohio. Both of his parents are now enjoying the benefits of well spent lives and reside at Pomona, California. The family moved to Concordia, Kansas, in 1883, and in 1889 returned to their former residence in Iowa. Our Brother NEILSON received his early education in the rural schools of Kansas, and after returning to Iowa he entered the High School at Council Bluffs, and later he entered the School of Pharmacy of the Iowa State University. He was married to ESTELLA A. BRADFORD in 1897, and the union was blessed with one daughter, MILDRED B . NEILSON, now
Mrs.
MILDRED B . BRANTINGHAM, of
Des
Moines, Iowa. Brother NEILSON and wife have been residents of Concordia, Kansas, since 1894.
854
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
In 1899, he engaged in business with GEORGE A. LAYTON, under the firm name of LAYTON & NEILSON, as retail druggists. This partnership at Concordia continues until this time, although Mr. LAYTON is not now actively engaged in the business. Our brother has also enjoyed the benefit of business and civic relationships of importance. He has been for twenty-five years a director of the Concordia Building and Loan Association, and has been director, secretary-treasurer of the Home Lumber and Goal Company since 1920, .also he has been a member of the Board of Education of the City of Concordia for fourteen years and for five years of that time president of the board. An able and indefatigable worker in all lines, he has received well merited recognition. M.'. W.-. Brother NEILSON received his Lodge, Chapter and Commandery degrees in the Concordia bodies, but the Council degrees in Zabud Council No. 4, of Topeka, from which he dimitted to affiliate with Hiram Council No. 10, now of Concordia. He received the Scottish Rite degrees in the bodies of that Rite in the Valley of Wichita, Kansas. He is a member of Isis Temple of the Mystic Shrine at Salina, and has been received and designated a member of St. Augustine Conclave, Knights of Red Cross of Constantine, at Topeka, Kansas. It is now a matter of history that our brother became an active and enthusiastic worker in the Masonic Bodies and it is but natural that in due course of time he served at the head of the Lodge, Chapter, Council and Commandery in his home town. Early in his Masonic career he manifested interest in the affairs of the several Masonic Grand Bodies, and as a result, after years of service in all, as shown by his record, after advancing regularly through the lines, he enjoys the unique and unusual distinction of having, after election, presided over the M.'.E.\ Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons; the M.\ 111.". Grand Council of Royal and Select Masters; the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar, all of Kansas, and now he has attained the summit by having, after election, presided over the M.-. W.-. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas at its last Annual Communication in Wichita in 1927. Our distinguished brother has also been the recipient of national Masonic honors. Having been elected in the General Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons.in 1918 as Grand Master of the Second Veil, he has been regularly advanced and is now serving as General Grand Captain of the Host. It goes without saying that our brother has served on many important committees as will- be hereinafter shown, and his work has been careful, dependable and thorough. Thus, in brief is the record of some of the events of a useful and successful career both in business and Masonry. M.-. W.'. Brother NEILSON has a record possessed by few and of which he may well be proud.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
855
Those who know him hope and trust he may be spared for many years to enjoy the benefits of his labors, and be enabled to add to his record by intensity of devotion and activity in the future. It may well be said of him that the world is better because he has lived. MASONIC RECORD. ANCIENT CRAFT MASONRY. ST. JOHN'S LODGE N O . 113,
CONCORDIA, KANSAS:
Initiated, June 16, 1899. Passed, July 21, 1899. Raised, October 6, 1899. Junior Deacon, 1900. Junior Warden, 1901. Senior Warden, 1902. Master, 1903, 1904. GRAND LODGE:
Grand Senior Steward, 1903. Grand Junior Deacon, 1904. Grand Junior Warden, 1923. Grand Senior Warden, 1924. Deputy Grand Master, 1925. Grand Master, 1926. District Deputy Grand Master, 1904, 1917. Committee Service. Committee on Grievances and Appeals: Member, 1905. Committee on Credentials: Member, 1906, 1907, 1908, 1909, 1910. CAPITULAR. CONCORDIA CHAPTER N O . 45, CONCORDIA, KANSAS:
Mark Master, November 24, 1899. Past Master, November 24, 1899. Most Excellent Master, February 17, 1900. Royal Arch, February 19, 1900. Master Second Veil, 1901, 1913, 1914, 1915, 1916, 1920, 1921, 1922. Principal Sojourner, 1902, 1910. Scribe, 1903. King, 1904. High Priest, 1905. Master Third Veil, 1919. Secretary, 1923.
?56
PROCEEDINGS GRAND
OF THE
February,
CHAPTER:
Grand Captain of the Host, 1911. Grand Scribe, 1912. Grand King, 1913. Deputy Grand High Priest, 1914. Grand High Priest, 1915. District Deputy Grand High Priest, 1910. Committee Service. Committee on Chartered Chapters: Chairman, 1907, 1908, 1909. Committee on Finance and Property: Member, 1902, 1903; Chairman, 1910. Committee on Necrology: Member, 1905. Committee on Credentials: Member, 1906. ORDER OF HIGH PRIESTHOOD.
Received Order of High Priesthood, February 15, 1905. CRYPTIC. ZABUD COUNCIL N O . 4, TOPEKA, KANSAS:
Royal Master, February 18, 1902. Select Master, February 18, 1902. Super Excellent Master, February 18, 1902. Dimitted, March 26, 1908. HIRAM COUNCIL N O . 10,
CONCORDIA, KANSAS:
Admitted, April 16, 1908. Master, 1908, 1909, 1910, 1911. Recorder, 1912, 1913, 1914, 1915, 1916, 1917, 1918, 1919, 1920, 1921, 1922, 1923, 1924, 1925, 1926. GRAND COUNCIL:
Grand Custodian of Work, 1909. Grand Marshal, 1910. Grand Captain of Guard, 1911. Grand Principal Conductor of Work, 1912. Deputy Grand Master, 1913. Grand Master, 1914. Committee 1908. Committee Committee Committee 1924. Committee
Committee Service. on Credetnials: Member, 1903; Chairman, 1907, on Finance and Accounts: Member, 1904. on Necrology: Chairman, 1921. on Reports of Grand Officers: Member, 1923, on New Councils: Chairman, 1925.
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
857
CHRISTIAN KNIGHTHOOD. CONCORDIA COMMANDERY N O . 42,
CONCORDIA, KANSAS:
Red Cross, April 14, 1900. Knights of Malta, April 21, 1900. Knights Templar, April 21, 1900. Junior Warden, 1902. Captain General, 1903, 1904, 1905, 1920. Generalissimo, 1906. Commander, 1907. Prelate, 1908, 1909, 1910. GRAND COMMANDERY:
Grand Warder, 1911. Grand Sword Bearer, 1912. Grand Standard Bearer, 1913. Grand Junior Warden, 1914. Grand Captain General, 1915. Grand Generalissimo, 1916. Deputy Grand Commander, 1917. Grand Commander, 1918. Commiitee Service. Commitee on Credentials: Member, 1907. Committee on Commanderies U. D.: Member, 1908. Committee on Necrology: Member, 1909. Committee on Chartered Commanderies: Member, 1910. Committee on Tactics and Ceremonies: Member, 1919. Committee on Reports of Grand Officers: Chairman, 1922. Committee on Triennial Affairs: Member, 1924; Chairman, 1924, 1925, 1926.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE
ASSOCIATION O F PAST GRAND MASTERS OF THE
M.-.W.-. GRAND LODGE OF A. F. & A. M. OF KANSAS.
February 22,1927. The twenty-third Annual Meeting of the Association of Past Grand Masters of the M.-. W.". Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas, was held at the Wichita Club in the city of Wichita, at 7 p. M. of the above date. The following members were present: WICHITA, KANSAS,
M. .W.-. .w.M. .W.: .w.M. .w. M. .w. M. .w. M. .w. M. .w. M. .w. M. .w. M. .w. M. .w. M. .w.
PERRY M . HOISINGTON THOMAS G . FITCH '. THOMAS L . BOND HENRY F . MASON WILLIAM EASTON HUTCHISON ELKICK C . COLE WILLIAM L . BURDICK GILES H . LAMB
•.
...Grand Grand Grand Grand Grand Grand Grand Grand
Master, Master, Master, Master, Master, Master, Master, Master,
1901 1904 1906 1908 1912 1913 1915 1916
B E N S . PAULEN
Grand Master, 1921
JOHN MCCULLAGH ELMER F . STRAIN CHARLES A. LOUCKS
Grand Master, 1922 Grand Master, 1924 Grand Master, 1925
1926-27.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
859
Owing to the death of the Venerable President, M.-.W.-. HUGH P. FARRELLY, the vacancy in that office was filled by M.-.W.-. B E N S. PAULBN, who opened the Table Lodge. Upon motion M.-.W.-. JOHN W . NEILSON, Grand Master of the M.-.W.-. Grand Lodge of Kansas, was unanimously elected to membership, and the attributes of the Association were conferred upon him. Messages of regret were received from M.-.W.-. MARION K. BRUNDAGE, M.-.W.-. CHARLES J W E B B , and M.-.W.-. ALEX A. SHARP.
Succeeding the social pleasures of the evening, several questions of importance were discussed, and a beautiful tribute to the deceased Venerable President was paid, by his warm friend, M.-. W.-. GILES H . LAMB, a copy of which accompanies this report. Under the constitution, M.-.W.-. JOHN McCULLAGH succeeds to the office of Venerable President, and M.-.W.-. JOHN W . NEILSON to the office of Steward for the ensuing year. On motion, M.'.W.". ELRICK C . COLE was chosen Worthy Secretary for the ensuing year. The Table Lodge formally closed until the annual meeting in February, 1928, unless sooner convened by the President. ELRICK C . COLE,
Secretary.
HUGH P. FARRELLY, Born, September 2, 1858, Green Co., Illinois Died, November 17, 1926, Chanute, Kansas Grand Master, 1920
860
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
REMARKS BY M.-.W.'. GILES II. LAMB.
Venerable President: As I stand here tonight and look into your happy faces, my heart is sad because of the absence of our Most Worshipful Brother HUGH P. FARRELLY, whose high privilege it would have been to preside over this banquet tonight. For more than a third of a century I was proud to call him my friend and brother. We served our respective counties as County Attorney during the same period of time and often consulted each other in the affairs of our respective offices. We were each elected to the State Senate in 1896, he as a Democrat and I as a Republican. Brother FARRELLY never allowed politics to interfere with his friendships. He was then in the zenith of his power. His eye was keen, his look lofty, and his step proud. He could tread the floor of any assembly with unsurpassed dignity, yet without hautiness. He was an able lawyer, a strong, vigorous advocate, but always fair, he disdained to win by treachery or deceit. He was devoted to his profession, and loved his county. His GOD, his wife, his home, his church, and the Masonic lodge were his solace and refuge in the storms of life. He brought to the Grand East a ripe experience and unswerving devotion to the fraternal principles of Freemasonry. The last time I saw him, a few months before his death, he was broken in health, yet buoyant in spirit. We talked of our long acquaintance, our firm friendship, how our lines of life had crossed and recrossed each other many times; our days of service together in the State Senate, in the Masonic Grand Lodge, and in the Court Room. He was no longer concerned about politics or the affairs of state. He talked of the wife and the home that he loved, of the church, of GOD, and Heaven. Then the old light came back to his eyes, and he said, " I especially want to attend the next banquet of Past Grand Masters, they say I am to be the Venerable President and preside as such at that meeting; won't it be funny to be addressed as Venerable? " He was then fast hurrying to that "world where all are equal," but he did not realize it. A few months later I stood with my Masonic brethren by the side of the casket that contained all that was mortal of Brother FARRELLY. AS I listened to the words of Most Worshipful Grand Master NEILSON at his bier, I thought how often Brother FARRELLY had said the same words for other departed Masons. Brother FARRELLY is gone, and my heart is sad because he is not here. GOD bless his memory, and GOD bless his wife, the companion of his youth, in her loneliness and .sorrow. With unfaltering step he entered that house not made with hands. His life was four square and his heart was pure gold.
2ln ii^mnmm.
M.\W.\(&Ymh Masttt in 1920
:fi3orn S e p t e m b e r 2, 1858
2)iecl fRovember 17, 1926
3ln m^mnrtam.
Sacred to the imemory of
©ur tBeloved Dead within this Ifurisdiction.
i^atlja Suring tl|f f^ar 192fi. Smilhlon No. 1.—William H. Onstott, April 7. Leavenworth No. 2.—Charles J. Cameron, Nov. 10; John Casker. Oct. 31; John R. Gamble. Dec. 31; William Peters, April IG; William W. Sturgess, Nov. 9. Wyandotle No. 3.—Marcus H. Peterson, Jan. 6; Thomas J. Hinton, March 27; Edgar Forgy Serviss, April 6; Clyde F. Clift, April Id; Nathan E. Walthall. May 21; Earnest P. Eich,M;ay27; William J. Hayes, Juno 3; Guy C. McCarroll, June 19; Winflold Freeman, July 5; Arthur H. Stevens, July 19; John C. Smith, Aug. 0; Joseph B. Speck, Aug. 27; Joseph D. Flanders. Aug. 29; Clinton Angevine, Dec. 5; Joseph A. Crossler, Dec. 21. Kickapoo No. Ji.—Robert E. Brown, Aug. 25; James W. Smith, Aug. 10. Washington No. 5.—Joseph R. Baker, May 22; George T. Bolman, Feb. 25; Michael G. Heald, May 29; William Kiff, June 28; Albert McNaughton, Sept. 4; Robert Alan Walker, April 19. Lawrence No. 6.—Charles DeForest, Sept. 29; Russell D. Elliott, Dec. 24; James I. Glendinning, Feb. 28; Theodore N. Hansen, April 0; James H. Hill, April 23; Samuel P. Moore, Feb. 15; William H. Robinson, Dec. 4; Walter B. .Slack, March 8; Benjamin Urbansky, July 14; Oscar H. Williams, April 18; Francis H. Martling. Dec. 24. Union No. 7.—Walter Buford, Fob. 17; Otto J. Mescke, Feb. 12; Benjamin D. Pierce. Nov. 4; Lars P. Phillipson, Feb. 9; Charles C. Rehfeld, Sept. 14; James Roddy, Dec. 7. Rising Svn No. S:—Vespian V. Hedges. Feb. 21; Benjamin F. Cooper, Aug. 0; William F. Hawkins, June 18, 1925; Charles A. Benliam, , 1925; William Allen Preston. Nov. 8; Edward C. Gates, Nov. 22: John R. Marshall, Nov. 11; Edward E. Dix, Dec. 15; Charles Maupin, Dec. 22. Acacia No. 9.—William L. BuUene, July 31; Florence A. Ewing, June 12; Clarence Z. Kelso, Feb. 7. King Solomon No. 10.—Mickel P, Mickelson, Jan. 23; Joseph H. Langworthy, March 30: Glenn G. Hines, June 11; Christian A. Gaiser, July 25; Charles L. Andrus, Oct. 4; Cyrus S. Sprague, Oct. 29; George I. Brown, Nov. 6. Emporia No. 12.—Walter Birdsell, March 11; Edward E. Bittman, Nov. 29; Samuel E. Busser, Sept, 17; Washington E. Dunkerley. Jan. 28: W^illiam Hood. June 29; George G. Jacobs, Nov. 18; William H. Keller, March 3; Thomas G. Killingsworth. Jan. 22; Frank A. Miller. March 20; Warren G. Paddock. Jan. 5; John M. Parrington, May 10; James H, Pearson, Dec. 10; Fred Searcey, Oct. 29. Nemaha No. 13.—Joel T. Sanders, Aug. 22. Oskaloosa No. H.—Eli C. Thorp, Nov. 22.
DEATHS—Continued. Great Bend No. IS.—Ezekel McBrlde, Feb. 17; Roy R. Johnson, Feb. 24; Fred Zutavern, Feb. 28; Martin Weirauch, May 2; Christian F. Willner, July .31; Ransom W. Emerson, Aug. 11; Fred M. Busch, Oct. 7; L. Vernon Graves, Nov. 5; John C. Gregory, Dec. 19. Lafajjette No. 16.—Charles W. Barber, May 26: Frank M. Emmons, Dec. 10; William L. Hofer, April 3; Louis Johnson, March 9; Robert H. Kidd, Feb. 4; Edmond B. McCormick, Jan. 15; John J. Smith, Jan. 27; John W. Wilholt, Nov. 28, 1925. Topeka No. 17.—Robert D . Blaine, April 2 1 ; Henry W. Burdick, Dec. 14; Bryan E. Cookinham, May 16; George W. Dailey, March 7; William S. Furman, April 16; Thaddeus R. Hopkins, Feb. 17; Thomas O. Jones, Feb. 23; Bernard Kelly, March 18; Ernest R. Ridings. Dec. 6; .Silas L. Seabrook, Jan. 15; John B. Sims. May 2; Samuel W^ood, Dec. 1. Ottawa No. 18.—Darius R. Henderson, Jan. 25; Samuel F. Beeler, Feb. 1; Edgar J. Shinn, Feb. 2. Olathe No. 19.—William W. Lindsey, Oct! 15. Valley Falls No. 21.—Max Boyer, May 14. Melvern No. 22.—Guy Francis Farley, Sept. 27. Osage Valley No. Zk.—Fred R. Bates, Aug. 23; William A. Bedell, June 27; William Cooper, June 23. Longton No. 26.—George E. Fitzgibbons, .Tune 10; Archibald W. Nichols, July 5; John H. Reddick, Dec. 11; Jacob Weidlein, Feb. 2. Pacific No. 29.—John Thompson, March 12; Lymen S. Smith, Dec. 14. Towanda No. 30.—William E. Johnson. May 24. Hiawatha No. 35.—Edward A. Smith, Dec. 23. Council dove No. 36.—James Monroe Miller, Jan. 20; Hugh Stewart, Jan. 27; John N. Pemberton, Feb. 17; Benjamian W. Bozman, March 3; James Jasper Weakley, March 6; Arthur B. Wood, Sept. 8; Charles W. Crimm, Oct. 11; James H. C. Finney, Nov. 5. Paola No. 37.—James Davison, Dec. 11; William H. Harris, Oct. 16; Peter J. Morrison, May 25; Burroughs L. Sperling, Nov. 15. Tola No. SS.—Altes H. Campbell, May 24; Ernest S. Eakin, Feb. 2 1 ; John C. Piester, Feb. 20. Seneca No. 39.—Daniel .1. Firstenberger, March 27: Raymond H. Nichols, Dec. 3; William G. Rucker. Sept. 29. McKinlcy No. Jfl.—Cliarles L. Crow, Nov. 20. liolton No. JfS.—Isaac O. Cross. Jan. 8; Klllian C. Green, April 29; T. Preston Heidrick. June 24; C. Chapin North, Jan. 10; Isaac T. Price, Dec. 27. Nickerson No. 1/3.—Aaron Jeffers, Feb. 8; Ross C.' Whiteside, Oct. 27. Delphian No. 1,1,.—John B. Thornton, Oct. 11; Alex Taylor, Nov. 21.
DEATHS—Continued. Xenia No. Ii7.—John E. Farrel, April 19. Mackey No. JfS.—Orville O. Moore, April 29; Rolla F. Bowman, May 16; Walter T. Ferres, May 29; "William McAdam, Aug. 9; William Gilbert Harman, Sept. 6. Nine Mile No. J,9.—.Joseph R. Williams, Oct. 10. Orient No. 51.—Mason K. Barber, Feb. 25; Franklin Barnes, Sept. 24; William R. Fish, Sept. 15; Ira Lee Gerbericlf, Mar. 30; Charles Edward Hughes, Aug. 8; John F. Jones, Nov. 30; Charles Edward Manning, Feb. 27; John W. Morgan, Nov. 2; Thomas Scott Morrison, May 1; Edwin A. Mclntyre, Nov. 30; William Herman Peters, May 11; Paul Rossdeutscher, Aug. 4; George W. Scott, Oct. 18; Harry E. Shumway, April 17; George A. Sumpter, Feb. 13; John C. Taupert, Sept. 20; Horatio Sites Spencer, Dec. 27; Henry L. Winey, Aug. 15. Pottawatomie No. 52.—James E. Hyett, Feb.-26. Wetmore No. 53.—Samuel C. Barnes, Nov. 24. Troy No. 55.—Frederick S. Moscr, June 18; Albert L. Perry, May 6. Spring Hill No. 56.—Absolum N. Protzman, ; Claybourne W. Reynolds, Sept. 13; George N. Samuels, Aug. 20. Coyville No. 57.—James E. Harris, .Jan. 5; James Steele, Juno 30. McCracken No. 58.—John A. Wagner, Feb. 8; John T. Ward, April 26. Sallmlle No. 50.—John W. Gattis. Juno 19. Salina No. 60.—John Watkins Brown, Nov. 15; Ray A. C. Buchheister, Aug. 13; William L. Cannon. Oct. 30; Herbert D. Myers, May 25; John De Witt Riddell, Jan. 4; Charles H. Shultice, Aug. 16; William L. Thcisner, April 27; Philip Arthur Weisgerber, July 27; James P. White, March 20. La Cygne No. 61.—Thomas W. Marshall, Aug. 18; Thomas H. Cartmell, Dec. 16. Adams No. 63.—Daniel A. Coate, Aug. 6; Adam Woodford, Aug. 19. Gardner No. 65.—C.C. Knox, March 30; Minter F. Bray, Aug. 18; William J: McClintock, Doc. 2. Burlington No. 66'.—William M. Pilcher, Sept. 13; Mots Weisdorfer. May 11. Frankfort No. 67.—George Van A'leit, June 28. Hiram No. 68.—John A. Syfritt, April 16; Joseph M. Abeles, July 3 1 ; Oliver A. Mengcs, Aug. 9; Samuel Donaldson, Sept. 24. Altamont No. 69.—William L. Hudgcn, Aug. 1. Carbondale No. 70.—Arthur Waetzig, April 14; Robert B. McKee, Oct. 24. Baxter No. 71.—James p . Goodwin, Sept. 22. Chetopa No. 73.—Charles A. Lennington, May 5; William Shaeffer, Sept. 2.
DEATHS—Continued; Myilic Tie Nu. Hi.—Andrew J. Ryan, Nov. 3; Charles A. Viets, July 22; WamofjO No. 75.—William Myers. Sept. 4: Chester A. Smith, Sept. 14; AVilliam H. Buzzard, Dec. 20. Brie No. 76.—Joseph A. Wells, March 17; Lewis R. Kyle, July 2; Logan H. AVells, Dec. 23. Delia No. 77.—Charles F. E. Read, April 10. While Cloud No. 78.—John H. Lynds, Nov. 15. Corinthian No. 79.—Stephen Armstrong, Aug. I(i; Joseph P. Bolton. Feb. 3; William Hayson, Aug. 2; Henry C. Hepworth, Feb. 22; Samuel Kirchner, Feb. 19; Charles W. Wood, March 28. Zeicdalha No. 80.—James G. Burton, March C; Franklin T. Johnson, Feb. 5; Emmett B. Johnston, April G. New Albany No. 81.—John D. Gardner, Dec. 22. Tuscan No. 82.—Thurlow W. McCullough, March 22; Abram M. Irwin, Dec. 22. Doric No. 83.—Sampson American, ; Albert W. Armstrong, Juno 10. JeJJerson No. SJ/.—Virgil A. Stewart. Feb. 7. Sullon No. So.—Carlos S. Baker. Nov. 4; John D. Flannery, Feb. 27; Henry L. S. W. ]\unz, March 2(1; Rudolph Summers, May 1. SvnP.ower No. SB.—Glen A. Ausburn. April 10; Lloyd E. Best, Oct. 27; Jacob H. i3rown, March 3 1 : James W. Cave, April 2G; Edward Deadman. April 17; John C. Dunn, Sept. 20; Carl S. iSvorctt. March 21; Grant Hibargor, Sept. 26; Jesse L. Leiand, Nov. 28; William A. Schauner, .Tuly 15; Charles M. Thornbtirg, Feb. 7; Martin L. Wiand, Dec. 30. Mankato No. 87.—James W. Farrell, Sept. 9. Eureka No. 88.—William M. Brown, Feb. 31; Alfred L. Humphrey, March 14. Home No. 89.—William J. Granger. May 13; Charles S. King, Dec. 14. Golden Rule No. 90.—William Spain Bergundthal. March 20; Roy Edward Nelson. March 28; John William Edwards. April 4; Ama.so Meharry Petro. July 4; Martin Jesse Sanders, July 25; Evans Harold Shearer. July 27; Charles William Nisbet. Nov. 7 ; Herbert Edwin Johnston, Nov. 23; Thomas William McGce, Dec. 15. Maiysville No. 91.—Daniel Branscomb, Oct. 29; Benjamin H. Moon, Dec. 20. Devon No. 92.—John L. Kepley, Oct. 7; Jehu C. Fisher. Dec. 8. Girard No. 93.—Marion Coulter, Feb. 7; Ludwig Frerking, Dec. 20; Lewis L. Threewit, July 3. Harmony No. 9!i.—Richard M. Jones, March 29; Alva O. Crawford, Nov. 1.
DEATHS—Continued. Conslellation No. gr,.—Richard M. Case, Feb. 20; John L. Tpepfer, Feb. 26. Delaware No. 96.—Qscar Trueb, Sr., Oct. 13. Patmos No. 97.—James Charters, Nov. 2, 1925; Samuel B . Ciflord, July 9; Leonard Harsh, June 2; Charles Lafyet't Hedde, July 31; Thomas'H. Kcplinger, Sept. 15; Clarence Jacob Kroh, Nov. 29; Ora X. McClellan, Sept. 29; Strother Gaines Pottle, Nov. 4; Frenn Leslie Preston. Nov. 26; George B. Rhodes, Feb. 22; Edward D. Stratford, Jan. 22; "Wilbur E. Turner, D.ec. 31, 1925. Benevolent No. 98.—James D. Adams, July 30; Charles E . Zacharias, July 6. ' ' Wichita N'o. 99.—August Anderson, Dec. 13; Adelbert W. Charter, July 9; James A. Christopher, March 29; Albert E. Dubber, April 18; Joseph W. Hendoe, Feb. 27; Alexander C. Houston, • March 12; Joseph W. Marlor. Sept. 2'9; Richard L. Marx, July 30; Charles Mills, July 22; Albert A. Nixon, Feb. 26; Arthur S. Parks, Jan. 21; Dennis E. Peck, July 22; Herman Philipp, March 23; Alexander C. Reveley, Feb.' 19;' Horace W. Reynolds, Sept'. '27; George A. Shupp, June 3;' Henry C. Sliiss, Aiig. 3; Frank W. 'Waits, June 29; Clarence R. 'Watson, June 10. Prudence No. 100.—Davenport Hascltine, Oct. 31; "Winfleld S. 'King. April 8; J o h n ' E . Megenity, March 17; Emery B. Older, Feb. 6; James H. Ozment, Dec. 10; Elmore R. Pattyson, Jan. 1; Samuel K. Stauffer, Aug. 31. •Keystone No. i02.^^John T. Chambers, Dec. 20; Alexander G. Gartley, Feb. 27; Arthur L. Ingraham, Nov. 1; Frank McClellan, April 17; Fred L. Plunkett. July 22; Charles F. Orchard, Sept. 19; Thomas J.'Stewart, April 12. " " Cedar No. 103.—Arthur Carter, April 10; Peter Farrell, May 11; Hugh P. Farrelly, Nov. 17; James P. Ferguson, Aug. 26; Julian E. Flint, May 10; Henry A. Koch, April 16; Louis M. Peterson, Aug. 31; Ben W. Sharp, Feb. 1; Edgar "Waller, May'22.' ' • ' ' Frontier No. 104.—Lyman P. Dewey, Feb. 13; Martin A. Schropp, Dec. 12; David E. Ballard, Dec. 29. Solomon City No. 105.—James B. Anderson, April 18; Benjamin F. Dice, May' 25; ' Meh-in H. Lantz, Aug. 6; Henry Parmenter, Nov. 24. ' ' Fidelity No. iOfi.—Jacob "W. Miller, Jan. 23; "William M. Henderson, May 2; L. Harvy Johnson, Sept. 10. Fortitude No. 107.—Elmer A. Bess, May 17; Joseph B. E. Cates, Aug. 20; Horace G. James. June 20; Cyrus B. McClurg, Jan. 30; Hector R. Nicolas, July 1; Warren H. Robb, Feb. 1; George R. Simons, June 22; OleO. Strand, March 22. Winfield No. 110.—Henry M. Barr. Dec. 24; Alexander P. Bertram, March 29; Albert H. Havens, March 27; James Jordan, May 17; J. Frank Martin, May 1; Ivan R. Robinson, June 16; John W. Skinner, Nov. 8. Hesperian No. 111.—John "W. Alexander, Dec. 31; Timothy H. Ernest, May 16; Louis C. Korner. Jan. 14; Hiram L. Miller, Feb. 11; Adrian C. Sherman, April 6.
DEATHS—Continued. Blue Valley No. 112.—Orson R. Fortes, June 7; Edwin Reddington, May 7. St. John's No. 113.—Mahlon M. Warren, Jan. 24; Ale.xander McMillan, Feb. 27; David T. Votaw, Dec. 7. Advance No. llJf.-—Wallace Vlack, Sept. 6. Excelsior No. 115.—William J. Boler, Dec. 10. Muscolah No. 116.—Frank Bayington, Jan. 10; Samuel M. Rogers, Nov. 30. Parsons No. J;7.—Micajah A. Arnett, Oct. 2,3; Alex Baird. Aug. 24; Amos Caldwell, Feb. 17; Harvey W. Craft, April 30; William H. Dearth, Jan. 4; Charles B. Fessenden, Jan. 13; Frank Nagle, Oct. 30; Frank B. Russell, April 20; Andrew Fenbrook, March 27; George E. S. Walker, Aug. 31. Altoona No. 118.—Benjamin C. Brown, Feb. 12; Elmer E. Harbert, July 13. Cherokee No. 119.—John E. Pendleton, April . Halcyon No. 120.—John Bruce, Nov. 24; Richard A. Armstrong, March 18; Richard R. Griggs, Sept. .5. Woodson No. IZl.—Jefferson Huff, Jan. 31; Frank Hall, Feb. 28. Clifton No. 122.—Henry Klein, March 1; John Woodruff, Sept. 8; August Wangerein, July 1. Cawker City No. 125.—William N. Bourne, Nov. 22; Frank M. Gates, March 8; Edwin G. Mason, May .5; Ulysses G. Smith, June 26. Palestine No. 127.—Thomas S. Greer, April 2; Samuel H. Jameson, July 11. Belleville No. 129.—H. Albert Paulsen, July 8; Ole Sorenscn, Sr., Nov. 14. Polar Star No. 130.—John B. Burd, Jan. 1; John B. Schaffer, Sept. 27. Carson No. 132.—John Monfort, Oct. 3. Crescent No. 133.—William C. Adams, March 20; Arthur H. Fitch, June 9; Charles N. Hunt. Feb. 4; James T. Hight, Sept. 19; Alexander F. Hill, March 1; Albert McNeil, Feb. 27; Robert V. Maynard, Dec. 26, 1925; Earl G. Newman, Oct. 30; Thomas B. Oldroyd, Dec. 28, 1925; Charles M. Pfisterer, Dec. 25. 1925; Walter S. Peck, Jan. 3; Lawrence D. Wimpey, Sept. 27; Solomon Wimer, Dec. 18, 1925. Clay Center No. ISJ).—Ira A. Flood, Aug. 1; Alfred Held, Jan. 21; Uriah E. Nead, Aug. 28; Hy. W. Stackpole, Feb. 17. Lenexa No. 135.—Ezra Edwards, April 1. Vesper No. 136.—Charles H. Inglefleld, Jan. 23. Cherryvale No.-137.—Allen Dale Hileman, Jan. 17; James S. Leach, May 30. SedgtDick No. 139.—Nial V. Napier, July 23; William H. Thomas, March 30.
DEATHS—Continued. Beno No. HO.—John B. Baird, June 4; Moses P. Davis, April 6 Clayton T. Haines, Sept. 22; Martin Hoagland, June 23 Llewellyn B. Jones, Nov. 24; Thomas J. Neal, April 27 Leon B. Nussbaum. March 18; Lee George Read, April 8, Horace L. Scott, March 23; Ellsworth B. Shelley, April 14; Levi H. Tuttlo, Aug. 29. Signal No. HI.—Frank G. Hunsicker, Nov. 19; .Roger Jenkins. Oct. 1. Newton No. HZ.—Marion F. Bair, April 22; Augustus Carter, June 5; Daniel Clingingsmith, Jan. 20; Anson B. Conrad. Jan. 6; Walter T. Growl, March 10; Robert Day, April 30; Julius Proese, Dec. 9; Thomas N. Hanson, May 9; Lorin G. Harlan, Aug. 20; John Robert Pruitt, Oct. 16; Charles L. Schriver, April 17; William R. Scott, Dec. 20. Minneapolis No. US.—Charles Erbentrout, March 15; Elijah K. Raper, April 8; Lewis A. Henry, Nov. 2. GUead No. IJ/Ji.—Adolphus Singleton. Dec. 29. Mt. Vernon No. i.i5.^John Mehl. March 27; AVilliam C. Hoflmeister, May 5; William Musser, May 10; Edmond N. Daniels, July 21. Center No. IkT.—William W. Walker, Feb. 11; Fred J^ewis, June 3; James A. Stewart, Dec. 24. Wa-Keeney No. US.—Joshua H. Acre. July 20; Truman B. Hays, June 30: Washington Mattingly, Nov. 25. Thayer No. H9.—Aaron G. Bardwell, Aug. 19. Wellington No. 150.—John G. Beard, June 15; Christian Keuneke, May 5; James Lawrence, Feb. 5; John George Penniwell, May 22; Benjamere F. Ryan, Sept. 20; Hov\ard A. Sawyer, Sept. 8. Douglass No. 151.—James McCreery, Jan. 25; George E. House. Feb. 4; James A. Barkalow, March 7; Cecil E. Wakefield, April 9. Lebo No. 152.—Nelson L. Grovor, Oct. 27. .Lincoln No. 154.—Jerome Ackerman, March 31; Joseph H. McFarland, Feb. 5; George L. Webb, March 8. Hope No. 1.55.—Robert P. Baughman, Feb. 25; James A. Jackson, Feb. 19; Charles F. Osborn, June 13. Dexter No. 156.—A. Lincoln Branson, Aug. 10; William S. Lefler, July 30; John W. Searle, Oct. 19. Haven No. 157.—Isaac B. Ellison, Dec. 9. Active No. 158.—Leonard Ashcroft, March 24; Samuel G. Gueirrler, May 13; Deuel D. Johnson, Fob. 5. Alma No. 161.—Samuel H. Reber, Sept. 1. Sabetha No. 162.—Daniel Fixley, Feb. 13; Nathan S. Smith, May 10; Frank H. Erwin, Oct. 12. Greenwood No. 163.—Charles D. Pritchard, June 20. Oxford No. 165.—Frank Welter, July 7. Lamed No. 167.—Glenn E. Compton, Aug. 23; Alva J. Moore. Oct. 27.
r DEATHS—Continued. Blue Rapids No. 169.—John E. Griffith, Nov. 26; Josiah S. Hasljell, Nov. 11; Markel C. Moorhead, Nov. 23; Henry Stanley, Aug. G. Fraternal No. 170.—Anthony Jones,. Fob. 17; Nathaniel J. Bishop, March 3; George W. Loup, June 15; C. E. Bobbins, Oct. 30. Sterling No. 171.—Sylvester T. Baker, .Tan. 16; Oscar B. Beckham, Aug. 19; William A. English, Nov. 1; Jesse J. Leatherman, Jan 5; Herman L. Millard, Aug. 13; Herman W. Rose, April 20; Henry Swartz, Jan. 26; John J. Welty, Dec. 9. • -. McPherson No. 172.—John A. Clawson, Feb. 25; George W. Jones, April 20; Calvin D. Riddell, Oct. 19; Merrill Wecden, April 25; Robert M. Wilson, May 22. Belle Plaine No. 173.—Ira O. Wheeler, Jan. 4; Joseph Dull, May 30; W^illiam L. Carter, Nov. 29; George W. Harrison, Dec. 29. Kirwin No. 175.—Gilman Carle, Sept. 17; Nathan S. Ewing, Aug. 11; Walter H. Hugunin, Feb. 16. Prairie Queen No. 176.—George Raymond Gregg, Jan. 14; William B. Cranmer, Dec. 12. Bussell No. 177.—Charles E. Hall, May 22; Joel Hart Cole, Nov. 3. Burr Oak No. 178.—Eugene M. Etter, July 10; Charles N, Gleason, Aug. 11; Burrett W. Lathrop, Oct. 1. Mi. Moriah No. 179—Max Heller, May 12; Benjamin Ely, Aug. 27; Abraham h. Peters, Sept. 2. Bennington No. 180.—William T. Markley, Aug. 20; Willis S. Ford, Nov. 23. Lenora No. 181.—John Bashford, March 16; Edwin L. McDaniel, July G; Albert L. Bruden, July 9; Robert Anderson, Dec.' 30. Burrton No. 182.—Alfred J. Hill, Feb. 8; Harvey F. Zimmerman. June 28. .. • Gaylord No. 183.—Marion F. Fleming, Dec. 19; Henry Jacobs, Nov. 11; Harvey D. Pratt, Nov. 28. Philtipsburg No. ISJ/.—Winfleld S. Aumiller, April 4; Charles Morrison, May 26. Hamlin No. 185.—Lorenzo E. Harding, June 18. Mountain Slope No. 186.—Alphus C- Banta, Aug. 2. Pittsburg No. 187.—Harrison H. Bolew, .Sept. 13; Arthur J. Carlson, Sept. 24; Frank D. Courtney, Oct. 22; George W. Epps, Sept. 9; Frederick W. Henry, June 10; Keith W. Heppert. Aug. 18: Robert H. Klock, April 16; Forest Prutt, April 4; J. Sylvester Rogers, Jan, 21; Hewell Thomas, Nov. 12. Onaga No. 188.—Daniel E. Brown, April 1; Walter E. Force, April 1; Charles A. Grutzmacher, April 27. Newahcuba No. ISO.—Alvin Walker, March 2; Samuel B. Parks, April 13; Charles E. Parmer, Oct. 15.
DEATHS—Continued. Henri No. 190.—Samuel H. Ward, .Jan. 0. Royal No. 192.—Alexander D. Swisher, March 16; Dale P. Wohlfcrd, Feb. 12. Hartford No. 193.—Gilbert Lee Dary, April 25; Charles E. Cole, Sept. 20; Robert L. Mahaffey. Oct. 9. Galena No. 19^.—Frank Le Cortis McKinney, May 16; Barton Eugene Ryan, June 21; Edger Willis Burr, July 13; Zemry H. Lowdermilk, Aug. 12. Hays No. 195.—William Schrenkler, Jan. 13. Canton No. 197.—Charles E. Barnes, July 29. Blue Hill No. 198.—Charles A. Lee, Jan. 26, 1025. Norton No. 199.—Herschel A. Bower, March 15; William B. Rogers, May 28; Harry A. Johnson, Aug. 18. Anthony A^o. 200.—Henry Krider, March 30: Francis M. Evans May 9; John Schmoker, Aug. 26; William Law, Sept. 3 Travers Herbert Barrett, Oct. 5; Henry P. Lease, Oct. 13 C. Freemont Cronk, Oct. 20. Delphos No. 202.—Thomas T. Lievallen, March 3. Sumner No. 203.—Daniel .1. Baker, Jan. 24; Herman DollofI, July 30; John T. Jones, Oct. 8; William Lasell, Feb. 16; William H, Munger, April 27. Downs No. 20//.—Fred Will Skinner, Nov. 3; William Henry Charles, Dec. 3. Eminence No. 205.—James Corrans, May 1; Eldin W. Parmiter, Nov. 18. Harper No. 206.—William O. Lechner, Sept. 11; Predric W. Lechner, Sept. 17. Occidental No. 207.—Richard Benwell, Dec. 6; William Forman, July 9; George G. Hahn, July 7; • Fred W. Higgins, April 7; John B. Taylor, April 13; William G. Thomas, Jan. 25. Friendship No. 208.—James S. Williams, May 1. Twin Grove No. 213.—William M. Davis, May 19; William R. Dixon, Dec. 8; William J. Philips, .Tan. 10; Joseph C. Stine, Sept. 14. Sincerity No. 2H.—Willard Senters, June 11. Walnut City No. 215.—George W. Cooley, Oct. 19. Corner Stone A'o. 219.—George M. Cowie, Aug. 5; Neeley Faye Troy, Aug. 27. Lewis No. 220.—Joseph W. Bridges, June 23; Frank P. Smith, May 23. Lebanon No. 221.—James A. Glenn, Oct. 15. St. Bernard No. 222.—Edward A. Coe, Aug. 26; Harley E. Pendleton, Jan. 16. Joppa No. 223.—Elias A. Jones, July 17; Thomas R. Pipes, June 24.
DEATHS—Continued. Anchor No. ZZJf.—James M; .Richael, March 29; John W. Barnes, July 14. SHoam No. 225.—Samuel D. Cooper, June 6; Philip Eastman, Nov. 29; Robert M. Hunter. Dec. 15; Lewis Kingman, Aug. 13; James M. Shellabarger, March 8; Roy Watson Stewart, Jan. 9; Frederick A. Strickrott, Sept. 3; Menzo W. Van Valkenburg, Jan. 25; Frank C. Webb, Jan. 13; Harry W. Wilt, May 29. Dirigo No. 226.—James W. Oliver, Nov. ,5. Vulcan No. 229.—James P. Woodworth, Feb. 14; Henry H. Stout, Aug. 17; Francis M. Wax, Oct. 12: Ninnescah No. 230.—Samuel D. La Fuze, May 27; John A. Wilson, Oct. 22. Greenleaf No. 232.—Hirarri C. Huntoon, April 21; James W. Nuttle, July 12; Roy M. Dean, Aug. 3. Clinton No. 233.—Thomas Ferguson, Sr., Feb. 1; Daniel A. Holland, March 7. Axlell No. 2 3 V ^ J a m e s A. Hankerson, April .5; .Tames Richardson, Oct. 2; Samuel S. Anderson, Nov. 24. Meriden No. 236.—Cornelius M. England, March 22. Temple No. 237.—Albert Gaddis, Jan. 31; .Tesse Benton Traylor, Nov. 11. Mount Hope No. 238.—Walter S. Pratt, June 10. Miltonvale No. 2Jf2.—Frederick Koster. March 23; WlUlam A. Farr, Oct. 4. Peace No. 21)3.—Harry L. Brown, Aug. 8; J. Clint Wood, July 7. Waverly No. 24Jf.-—William H. Harrison, July 24; William H. Lathram, Dec. 6; John Munz, Nov. 4. Marmaton No. Zli5.—Hubert G. Colcord. April ,5; William J. Rumbel, June 8; Lester I. Simpson, Sept. 1. Tyria-n No. 2^6.—Amos R. Jessup, Nov. 28; Le Roy G. Mott, Aug. 27. Chase No. 2^7.-—Silas H. ColTman, March 17. ScoHsville No. 2J,9.—William H. Freas, May 17; Mathlenus A. Gupton, Sept. 7. Stafford No. 252.—Levi Guthrie, May 14. Oakley No. 253.—Samuel D. Silverwood, April 30. Ionic No. 251).—Augustin E. Boland. Jan. 6: William R. Crebo, June 11; A. Calvin Glasscock, jNIarch 29. Milan No. 255.—David Zook, June 6. Westmoreland No. 257.—Lyman L. Badgley. April 3; Albion R. Deming, June 20. Beattic No. 259.—Oliver Button, Oct. 23. Mulberry No. 261.—George McVeigh, Sr., Jan. 14; Zoe Lukenbill, Jan. 16; Lee J. Sloon. Sept. 2.5.
DEATHS—Continued. Attica No. 262.—James A, Moore, Jan. 6; Karl R. Garver, April 2. Charity No. 263.—Jacob B. Best, July 16; James W. Tyson, Jan. 15. • Logan-No. 2'6Jt.—Herrick P. Andrews, Aug. 5; Hiram P. Clark, Dec. 16; "Willis M. Dunning, Jr., Sept. 10. Kilwinning No. 265.—Henry A. Bartjer, June 4; William H. Bates, March 4; Wilbur Hashbarger, Dec. 22; Charles M. Hatflelcl, Oct. 28; Nathaniel E. Reynolds, June 21.Mount Zion No. 266.—Perry Brunstetter, March 9; Walter Moxley, April 2. Bourbon No. 268.—William R. Smith, March 1; .Tames E. Vick, March 31; Carrie A. Marvin, Aug. 30; .John R. Anderson, Dec. 14. Mistletoe No. 269.—John P. Dall, April 27; Ralph W. Blakely, Sept. 8. Quenemo No. 270.—Englebert H. Erbar, Jan. 1; James A. Williams, Feb. 20. Armourdale No. 271.— Charles Gettler, Nov. 9; Harry A. Haug, March 22; John O. Milner, Dec. 3; George T. Pennell, Dec. 26; Alfred A. Yontz, March 28. Kaw No. 272.—Andrew S. Broaddus. Jan. 15; AI Elsworth Bryson, April 14; John M. Ferrell, March 29; Charles H. Rider, Dec. 13. BJacfc Diamond No. 27h-—Frank Bolinger, Feb. 27; William B. Smith, Feb. 11. Windom No. 276.—Charles A. Day, May 13. Ashland No. 277.—Albert B. McNickle, Feb. 10; Lam"in A. Lucas, Oct. 2. Cosmos No. 278.—William L. Laughman, Sept. 24. Braintrd No. 280.—Alexander Hewitt, April 22; Lester S. Naylor, Oct. 14. Milbrook No. 281.—Corwin L. Maulsby, July 21; Jehu McCoy, Aug. 4; James Peterson, Oct. 6. Alpha No. 282.—David Carr, April 15; David G. Curtiss. Aug. 14. Preston No. 283.—George Hewes, June 21. Lotus No. 286.—Stephen Balyeat, July 3; A. T. Brook, Dec. 19; Frank C. Libby, Dec. 23. Oak No. 287.—John M. Allen Oct. 17; Joseph N. Elsqn, Nov. 23. Cyrus No. 288.—William G. Murphy, March 19; Stephen W. Toby, Sept. 7. Emerald No. 289.—H. Charles Nicholls, Feb. 28; Edmond S. Snow, June 30. Paradise No. 290.—Cyrus A. Reed, Jan. 2; Charles J. Deighan, Feb. 4; Casey G. Cochran, May 30; Lebbiens P. Stewart, Oct. 10.
DEATHS—Continued. Beulah No. 291.—William A. Bauck, Sept. 18. Kiowa No. 293.—Cloyd M. Ei.xon, Aug. 17. Glen Elder No. 291,.—George L. Rarick, Aug. 1.3. Comanche No. 205,—James V. Hyatt, Jan. 23. Highland No. 206.—Clarence H. McArthur. Dec. 14. Apollo No. 297.—Robert Woodard. March 1,5. Cable No. Z99.—John Martin, April 9. Fargo No. 300.—William Robert, March 20. Albert Pike No. 303.—Isaac T. Ault, Feb. ,5; Albert S. Barr, Nov. 20; Charles L. Bergenthal, Feb. 5; Treadwell C. Coffman, Feb. 27; George M. Dickson,.Nov. 17; Cliarles E. Diehl, Dec. 25; Clinton C. Dunn, Oct. 1!); William H, Hulbert. June 17; Samuel G. Humphreys. Jan. 13; James T. McCiamrock, Feb. 21; John Mayes, Jan. 22; Charles Mosbacher, Feb. 2: Albert S. Orr, May 6: William W. Pearce, Jan. 3; Oscar F. Pfeifer, Sept. 28; Charles E. Rhoads, April 16; James C. Robb, March 27; Edwin A. Rosser, May 5; William A. Rutledge, March 16; George P. Sears, Dec. 17; Frank F. Severance, Jan. 7; Fred A. Smith, April 14; Charles R. Swisher, June 21; Leon W, Taylor, June 21; George B. Van Arsdale, March 0; Charles Youngheim, Nov. 11. St. Thomas No. 306.—Charles T. Adkisson, June 22; John M. Johnson, Dec. 15. Kansas No. 307.—Perl R. Barton, May 1; Augustus Pohlroan, Dec. 7; John Elmer Riley, Feb. 19; Laurence J. Tripp, July 26. Alden No. 308.—Solon Gray, May 1. Syracuse No. 309.—William F. Daggett, June 14; John T. Thompson, Dec. 1. Naphtali No. 310.—William L. Booth, Oct. 10; Albert Fisher, Sept. 21; Charles V. Shields, Aug. 26, Hancock No. 311.—Philip H. Bagby, March 10; Charles H. Barth, Dec. 5: Charles Lowenheimer. Jan. 31; Herbert L. Nagel, April 12; Frederick Power, Sept. 15; Henry G. Stahl, Dec. 8. Severance No. 313.—Alfred L. Fenton, July 2.3; John H. Johannes, Dec. 15. Hebron No. 31lf.—M. Hurst Redfearn, Jan, 21. Norcatur No. 317.—William W^allace, Feb. 20; William A. Ford, April 18. Wallace 'No. 318.—Grant Prentice, Jan. 7. Goodland No. 321.—William J. Adams, Jan. 25; Saul Mackey, June 28; William Baker, June 29; Harry Porch, Aug. 0. Ben HUT NO. 322.—Louis G. Eike. Juno 20; Russell Matney, April 29; Millard F. Weddle, Oct. 21; Scott Wilson, Dec. 5.
DEATHS—Continued. Cancy No. 321,.—Walter R. Kent, July 4; Howard H. Burns, Sept. 12. La Harpe No. 325.—Levi Hcnshaw Gorrell, .June 23. Horlon No. 326.—William H. Hockman, Oct. 9; Stepen A. Moore, Feb. 27; Lemuel O. Murphy, Aug. 2; Gaylord A. Strait, June 4. Gypsum City No. 328.—William M. Reese, Aug. 30. lioisinglon No. 331.—Thomas C. Burton, March 15. Rob Morris No. 332.—Jerry B. Haynes, Feb. 2. RosedaU No. 333.—Frank Beard, Oct. 7. Oak Hill No. 33J,.—Nickolas Schitlman, Feb. 3; Cloyce V. Simmons, May 28. Kincaid No. 338.—Edward L. Moore, March 20; Charles W. Sinclair, April 14. Lane No. 339.—James W. Kitchen, Jan. 20. Lcoti No. 31,0.—Guy Donald Dickey, Fob. 10. Parker No. 31,1.—Sherman Huff', Oct. 19. Mapie Cliy No. 31,2.—Harrison D. Cooper, March 1.5. HolyroodNo. 31,3.—William N. Lewis, Dec. 19. Edna No. ,9^5.^Alvin R. Hendra, March 28; David D. Ray, Oct. 17. Moundridge No. 31,6.—Doc B. Moore, Feb. 4. Spivey No. 31,7.—.John Jones, Dec. 11. Narka No. 31,9.—William F. Shipman, Dee. IS. Olive No. 350.—Leo Glenn Colpitt, Aug. 13. Scammon No. 351.—Ale.\andcr Roid, Jr., Jan. 8; Edgar O. Cousc, April 26; Sylvester Duffleld, Sept. 9; George S. King, Oct. 20, 1924. Margvclle No. 353.—Eric Erickson, June 14; David McDonald, Nov. 24; Pete Kumli, Jan. 13; Ernest O. Smith, April 13, Alia Vista No. 357.—Oscar E. Lomer, April 5. Turon No. 358.—Baxter E. Cole, Feb. 27; .Tames O. Harris. April 4; Roy D. Mattley, May 27; Frederick O. Blaine, July 11; John F. Walker,^Aug. 16. Sylvan Grove No. 359.—Edwin C. Pugh, July 1. Cuba No. 362.—H. R. Davidson, July 27; A. L. Singleton, Oct. 10, Valley Center No. 361,.-—Isaac M. Evans, Oct. 27; James L. Fitzgerald, June 25; Hugh B. Marshall, April 21; Lemuel O. Musgrove, Feb. 23. Bonner Springs No. 366.—Charles C. Hines, July 19; William K. Washburn, Jr., Aug. 11; John H. Kane, Dec. 29.
I
DEATHS—Continued. Plains No. 367.—John Homer Jerrell, Sept. 19. Roger E. Sherman No. 369.—William F. Gibbons, March 13; Charles Wesley Gross, June 21; John C. Hopkins, Sept. 19; Walter Sheridan Johnston. Oct. 1; William Marmon, Feb. 3 ; Charles S. Sutton, Fob. 5; William F. Stubenrauch, June 24. Macksville No. 371.—George F. Cragin, March 4; James Edward Cook, June 6. Denison No. 372.—Lester M. Werts, March 7. Dtldvan No. 375.—Henry P. Martin, May 13; William D. Garr, Jan. 10. Grand View No. 376.—James B. Miller, Sept. 21. Zenda No. 378.—George K. Suit, March 13. Buffalo No. 379.—John L. Barrlnger, Sept. 23. White City No. 380.—Robert L. Herhold, Feb. 27; Daniel E. Morris, March 3. Wilsey No. 38B.—Owen S. Andrews, Nov. 29. McDonald No. 383.—Thomas G. Cocks, Aug. 6; Charles Williams, April 5. Piper No. 385.—George D. Gale, March 8. Freeport No. 389.—Alfred J. Hilliard, Jan. 9; John W. Denny, Jan.29. Natoma No. 390.—Napoleon B. Clouse, Nov. 26; James Hubert Roe, Feb 18; Jefferson Davis Wood, Nov. 8. Sylvia No. 391.—George A. McPherson, March 5. Fostoria No. 392.—Bert C. Burdick, Feb. 27. Mayetta No. 393.—Clarence Marshall, May 10. Coats No. S9.}.^Charles A. Shrader, ; Alvin E. Smith, Feb. 28. Lindsborg No. 397.—Eric B. Ericson, Oct. 6; Thomas L. Olson, June 6. Melody No. iOO.^J. Arch McCandless, Oct. 10. Saint Francis No. JiOJi.—Taylor J. Robertson, Oct. 21; Jacob Uplinger, Feb. 22. 'Kensington No. 1)05.—Chris Wiljiamson, June 16; Homer Mook, Nov. 29. Hugoton No. 1,06.—Herbert p . McGill, Oct. 16. Scranton No. 1,07.—William H. Harris, Jan. 30. •Arma No. 408.—William Reeves, March 16; Henry Forsyth. March 28; John Morrison, Sept. 10. Hafiland No. 1,09.—Leslie D. Mitchell, May 11. Morland No. 1,11,.—John Dawson, April 25.
DEATHS—Continued. Perry No. il5.—John L. Shirley, Oct. 23. Kmg David No. 1,16.—Charles Crist, Jan. 1; Edward P. Elliott, July 26; Charles M. Manley, Nov 5; William K. Mathis, March 9; Earl S. Young, Feb. 6. HarveyviUe No. Ji21.—George Henry Hawks, June 8; Orison C. Miller, June 13. Cunningham No. 427.—Henry A. Scott, Dec. 13. Burdick No. J,Z9.—John August Carlson, May 26. Goff No. iZO.—William M. Sourk, March 5. Rosalia No. Jf3i.—Frank Luttgerding, Aug. 3. Enterprise No. !,ZT.—Earl J. Bothwell, Dec. 15. West Gale No. J,3S.—Theodore E. Vielhauer, Oct. 7. Antiquity U. D.—Axel E. Sandborn, Oct. 19.
3ln iH^mnrtaitt.
'AST GRAND MASTER OF ALARAMA. Died April 22, 1920.
(Ssnjamtn SUloytt Katttps, PAST GKAND MASTER OF COLORADO. Died Mny 27, 1920.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF COLORADO. Died September 16, 1920.
Sfarry C l t n t o t t ^ c o f t e l l i , GRAND JUNIOR WARDEN OF CONNECTICUT. Died June 2, 1920.
BH
Jit M^mnnam.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF DELAWARE. Died November 12, 1925.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF DELAWARE. Died December 13. 1925.
^tatQs
Mnsseii 3(0*100,
PAST GRAND MASTER OF DELAWARE. Died January 23, 1926.
Albert m. 0ltlcl)H0t, PAST GRAND MASTER OF FLORIDA. Died May 16, 1926.
3ln ilfmoriattt.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF GEORGIA. Died December 15, 1925.
Albert )33tlaon (Sortion, PAST GRAND MASTER OF IDAHO. Died June 10, 1926.
JVrtljwr E. laioad, PAST GRAND MASTER OF ILLINOIS. Died February 8, 1926.
flason HenkB ^ i b l a c k , PAST GRAND MASTER OF INDIANA. Died January 3, 1926.
3n Uli?mnnam.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF INDIANA. Died April 29, 1926.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF IOWA. Died December 22, 1925.
Sari 13Sortl|tngtim W^at^tts^ PAST GRAND MASTER OF KENTUCKY. Died November 21, 1925.
Adolpi; CSuatau MxckHy GRAND TREASURER OF LOUISIANA. Died December 15, 1925.
Jn HJ^mnrtant.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF MAINE. Died SepteiTiber ;"», 1926.
PAST GRAND TREASURER OF MONTANA. Died October 6, 1925.
Voljn IE. Catncrott, GRAND MASTER OF NORTH CAROLINA. Died March 28, 1926.
Alcxattti^r (Sarrlaa STaglor, PAST GKAND MASTER OF NORTH DAKOTA. Died October 11, 1926.
L
3)n Ii^m0nam. 9001 Cau0 Clore, PAST GRAND MASTER OF OHIO. Died March 5, 1926.
CliarlsB i£tvaxn JlSoIuprtnn, PAST GRAND MASTER OF OREGON. Died September 21, 1920.
3oI|n Wilbtriarts
Cram,
GRAND REGISTRAR OF SASKATCIIEM'AN. Died February 8, 1926.
Kotftt f99tltan §t)aui, PAST GRAND SECRETARY OF SASKATCHEWAN. Died March 25, 1926.
Jn ilftttDrtattt.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF TENNESSEE. Died July 5, 1926.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF TENNESSEE. Died October 27, 1926.
UStUtatn Col«mb«0 ^atfieJJi, SENIOR GRAND WARDEN OF TEXAS. Died July 9, 1926.
Uirijarb (FiinmaB Ualkw Sukr, Jr.. PAST GRAND MASTER OF VIRGINIA. Died March 8, 1926.
3ln il^mortam.
. P A S T G R A N D M A S T E R OF W A S H I N G T O N . D i e d D e c e m b e r 25, 1925.
Aluin SH^otttaa OTcbb, PAST G R A N D MASTER OF
WISCONSIN.
D i e d April 18, 1926.
iHotfn *^. Cnrscot, PAST GRAND MASTER AND PAST GRAND T R E A S U R E R OF M'ISCONSIN. D i e d M a y 13, 1926.
P A S T G R A N D M A S T E R OF W I S C O N S I N . Died A u g u s t 28, 1926.
APPENDIX.
REPORT ON CORRESPONDENCE. BY A L B E R T
To the M.:W.-.Grand
K . WILSON, CHAIRMAN.
Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas:
Your Committee are pleased to include with this report a review of the Proceedings of all other Grand Jurisdictions with which we are in fraternal relations, except six South and Central America countries, which have published no Proceedings of recent years. This is the first time during the past twenty-six years that any jurisdiction in this country has shown a net loss in membership. It will be noticed from the table at the close of this report that three jurisdictions show a loss. While the remainder show a total net gain of 79,127 (except our own jurisdiction, the annual reports not yet being due) it is 39,935 less than last year. With no disposition on the part of the writer to analyze this proposition with a view of ascertaining the cause for such an enormous decrease in net gain, it is safe to presume that two features enter into this question: First, a lack of attendance on the part ol the members , whose interests, in many cases, are in outside societies or associations predicating their membership on Freemasonry. Second, the great desire on the part of the younger element of today for amusement. Masonry is not now and never has been a place of amusement, neither was it ever intended for that purpose. This being the case it necessarily follows that many who knocked at our doors during the "rush years" did so without a full understanding of the purposes of our time honored institution. For this reason we can in a large measure, account for the non-attendance and lack of interest of many in the lodges. In all cases where but few members other than the officers attend the Communications of the lodge, the number of petitions received are in proportion to the number of members who take an interest in their
324
COBBESPONDENCE—INTRODUCTION.
February.
lodge as against the number who do not. This being the case, it would necessarily follow that if more members attended their lodge and manifested a greater interest in the great principles of Freemasonry there would be more knocking at our doors for admission. The report following embraces a number of subjects which the writer believes will be of importance to our lodges from two points of view: First, that of placing before them what the Masonic world is doing outside of our own jursidiction, either in support or opposition to the many outside organizations seeking recognition at the hands of Ancient Craft Masonry, some of which are organized for purposes of amusement, while others partake of the nature of self-constituted educational, relief or memorial associations. Second, the selection of portions of reports of Grand Masters, orations and addresses, as well as the more important legislation of Grand Lodges, which should appeal to the brother who is desirous of being informed as to what is being done in other Grand Jurisdictions. I t is to be regretted from our point of view, and as noted in this report, that a few Grand Lodges are lending their endorsement to outside organizations, based wholly on sentiment, which naturally increases the interest in such organizations to the detriment of Ancient Craft Masonry. Fraternally submitted, ALBERT K . WILSON,
Chairman.
In the early history of Masonry in this jurisdiction we were pestered with what we termed the carpet-bagging Mason. This individual was nothing more or less than an ordinary book agent, selling to the members such of his wares as appealed to the purchaser.- This class has long since passed away; however, there has grown up in recent years another class who are not selling books, but by word of mouth are striving to induce Grand Lodges to become subscribers to or join a self-constituted organization or association upon payment of a certain amount of money, but preferably the placing of an assessment upon its membership. These brethren in riiost instances are self-invited guests, some of whom have been honored in their own jurisdictions with the highest office within the gift of their brethren. Speaking for our own jurisdiction, such brethren, in deference to their rank, have been granted the floor of our Grand Lodge, but with
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—INTRODUCTION.
325
a distinct understanding that they could not offer their wares to our brethren. By this means our Grand Lodge has remained absolutely independent and aloof, not giving countenance to any of these educational, relief or memorial organizations or associations.
Basing our judgment on the purposes and objects of Ancient Craft Masonry as laid down by the fathers, the right of any Grand Lodge t » assess their members for carrying on the work of these various organizations, created at the suggestion of a few individuals without any authority from a Grand Lodge, can be questioned. I t is true that such associations, after being organized, have received the endorsement and financial assistance of a number of Grand Lodges, brought about through solicitation and propaganda.
We note the Grand Lodge of Oklahoma, with several others,^ withdrew from the Masonic Service Association, and Past Gran(fe^ Master THOMAS CHAUNCEY HUMPHRY, Chairman of the Committee-
on Correspondence, in commenting on the matter, had the followingto say: During the last Masonic year there has been quite a change in the sentiment of a number of Grand Jurisdictions In regard to the membership in the Masonic Service Association, and a number of States have withdrawn their membership from the same. I t Is quite Interesting to see an account of .Grand Officers and friends of the M. S. A. leaving their own States and attending the Grand Communications in other States, after disappointment has been sounded against remaining members of the M. S. A. These visitors administer the anodynes to the sick and give encouragement to the weals and urge them t o remain witUn the Association; and they.use good judgment on their part because every Grand Jmisdictlon that they can hold fast. Is just so many hundreds or thousands of dollars for the Association.
While our Grand Lodge has never deviated from the provisions of our Constitution or the Ancient Landmarks and Regulations, including the Gothic Constitutions—York—concerning physical qualifications, yet the question has been raised occasionally whether these requirements could not be modified.
326
CORRESPONDENCE—iNTBODucTioN.
February,
In order to definitely settle this question the subject was referred to a special committee who reported one year ago, as follows: We have given consideration to this subject and are of the opinion that not only the Constitution but the accepted Landmarks of Masonry make it Impossible to receive the petition of one who has a bodily defect or physical disability and any change in the Constitution would be a violation of the Ancient Landmarks. As Masons, we are charged that "The Ancient Land• marks of the Fraternity entrusted to our care we are carefully to preserve and never suffer them to be infringed or countenance a deviation from the established usages and customs of the Fraternity." The Ancient Charges specify and as Masters of Lodges we have admitted the fact and assented thereto, that "it is not in the power of any man or body of men to make innovations in the body of Masonry." We hold that it is not within the power or jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge or any other Masonic Body to make changes or introduce innovations in the Landmarks of Masonry. The physical qualifications of a candidate for the Mysteries of Masonry is not a subject of legislation. We therefore recommend t h a t no further consideration be given the matter.
The report was unanimously adopted and this question, therefore, is definitely settled so far as the Grand Lodge of Kansas is concerned.
The flood of sentiment so prevalent for several years from the time of our entry into the World War carried with it the endorsement of several foreign Grand Lodges by a number of Grand Lodges in this country. This was particularly true in extending recognition to one of the so-called Grand Lodges of France, and most jurisdictions which did so are now placed in the somewhat embarrassing situation of severing relationship. This question was given most careful thought on the part of this Committee, who submitted a full report in 1919, and it appears in our Proceedings for that year. Without a single exception our Grand Lodge has declined to recognize any of these bodies.
Some reviewers have made complaint because our Annual Proceedings are not indexed. In explanation the writer will say that our Proceedings are bound every three years and each volume contains a complete and well arranged index, covering the three years, hence we do not feel justified in indexing each year's journal.
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—INTRODUCTION.
327
We might add further that the arrangement of our Proceedings is such that an index anniially is not necessary. The reports of the Grand Officers are always followed with the report of the committee on distribution and the several reports of the other committees are arranged in the same order each year, and in case one committee submits several reports they are placed in consecutive order so that one reviewing our Proceedings can, when reading the Grand Master's address, very easily refer to any one of the reports of the committee and learn what disposition was made' of that particular subject. The most unsatisfactory Proceedings for a Correspondent to review are those which the writer terms ,a "lazy m a n ' s " compilation, being nothing more or less than a complete verbatim report as transscribed by the stenographer. If all Proceedings were arranged in this manner it would be a physical impossibility for the writer of the Keport on Correspondence to review such Proceedings annually, unless his entire time were devoted to this one task.
The writer scarcely believes that this is an opportune time to fully cover the subject of what is termed a Grand Masters' Conference, as it is, as it were, yet in its infancy, although efforts have been put forth along this line for several years, yet we feel that our readers are entitled to some information on the subject at this time. It now seems from the report of the meeting held in Chicago on November 17, 1925, that twenty-six of the Grand Jurisdictions were represented—^fourteen by Grand Masters. In reviewing the Proceedings of other Grand Lodges we fail to find any authority given any of the Grand Masters to attend such conference; therefore we presume that the Grand Masters, as well as Past Grand Masters and others who attended, .did so of their own volition, based no doubt on a notice that such meeting would be held. In extending recognition to another Grand Lodge one of the basic requirements of every regular Grand Lodge is sovereignty and independence of control by any other body. It certainly would not be consistent for a Grand Lodge to make such requirement of others and ignore the proposition themselves. If we are really sovereign and independent then why should any self-constituted organization even presume to discuss matters over
328
CORRESPONDENCE—INTRODUCTION.
February,
which each Grand Lodge, in its sovereignty and independence, has undisputed right and control? We refer specifically to the following subjects, which among others, wei-e discussed at this Conference: "Jurisdictional Sovereignty"; "Transferring Membership"; " T h e Relation of Grand Lodges to Masonic Boards of Relief"; "An Annual Conference." The tenure of office of a Grand Master in this country with possibly two or three exceptions, is one year, and we know full well that the average brother who is being advanced to the Grand East gives but little attention to the duties and responsibilities of a Grand Master until he is elected to that office; therefore it necessarily follows that if a conference of this kind' were in keeping with the sovereignty and independence of Grand Lodges the ability of most Grand Masters to deal with subjects of as much importance to the whole Craft might consistently be questioned. From our many years of service as an officer and student of Freemasonry we know full well that but little time is devoted to the study of the fundamental principles. Landmarks and Traditions of Ancient Craft Masonry, and this remark is made with all due respect to the brethren who have been permitted to wear the purple of the Fraternity. By referring to the permanent records the writer finds the reports of several meetings of Past Grand Masters, beginning with that held in Chicago in 1859. These meetings at first were known as a "Masonic Congress," but later " Grand Masters' Conference." In these meetings it was always emphasized that these gatherings did not contemplate, either directly or indirectly, the formation of a sovereign or supreme Grand Lodge. Notwithstanding the fact that such assurance has been made a part of the minutes of these meetings we find the subjects discussed at each gathering tend more and more toward the formation of a central power or control of Ancient Craft Masonry. This is particularly emphasized-by the fact that at the last conference it was stated that annual meetings of this kind would bring about a better understanding of our "interjurisdictional problems." In the sovereignty and independence of Grand Lodges the term "interjurisdictional problems" is unknown, as the comity between Grand Lodges absolutely precludes anything of this kind. In the practice of this comity one Grand Lodge respects the laws and decisions of another Grand Lodge, though not bound by the law of precedence to do so—"its source is a sentiment of reciprocal regard founded on identity of position and similarity of institutions."
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—ALABAMA.
329
ALABAMA —1925. Lodges, 582; members, 53,990; net gain, 1,621. Montgomery, December 1, 1925. DUNCAN C . CARMICHABL, M.'.W.-. Grand Master. Brother JOHN P H I L I P MELVIN, the Grand Representative of Kansas, was present. At this Communication they record as distinguished visitors the names of the Grand High Priest of the Grand Chapter, the Grand Master of the Grand Council and the Grand Commander of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar. Prom the preface to the address of the Grand Master we are pleased to quote the following: Our field of endeavor is just as extensive or just as narrow and limited as we care to make it. If we wish to limit its scope so as to conform to the narrow views and small ambitions for human service, then Masonry's field of endeavor becomes small indeed. If, on the other hand, we choose tobroaden the avenues of our minds and lay aside some of our pet preconceptions, thus rendering ourselves more receptive to the better human impulses, we can greatly extend the province of our endeavors. We ought never to forget that the mere fact that we are Masons may be taken by the rest of the world to mean that we are at least endeavoring to be good men and goqd citizens; and we should always remember that we wear the badge of Masonry of our own free will and accord. We cannot urge as an excuse for our shortcomings that any of us were unduly influenced. Everywhere there is a tendency to lay stress upon the fact that more Is expected of a man because he is a Mason, and we ought to promote and encourage this tendency by li'S'ing up to these expectations. . A petition for the degrees of Masonry ought to be the equivalent of an announcement to all the world that the applicant expects to endeavor to live a proper life, assume Ms full duty of citizenship, and be fair and square in all his dealings with mankind.
In America we have no government imposed by Divine right, and we make our government in our own image. Even the Constitution which so many are seeking so strenuously to exalt to the position of Divine right is but t h e wise work of wise men. Our country, with all that it represents of hope in the world. Is now and will continue to be just what we make it. Its institutions of religious liberty, of constitutional rights, integrity of the law, while the most precious possessions of the human race, do not emanate from government, but have their abiding place with the people. They arise out of the consecration of the father, the love and sacrifice of the mother, and the devotion of the childhood of the land. They are the products of an honest, earnest, tireless effort that goes into the rearing of the family altars and the building of the sacred homes of our great country. Our duty is plain. The Grand Master refers to the death of their Past Grand Master JAMES ANDREW BILBO, which occurred December 22,1924. ^ He expresses the appreciation of the Craft for the work of the ladies of the Eastern Star in co-operating with the members at the Masonic Home.
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CORRESPONDENCE—ALABAMA.
February,
He recommends that the charters of three of their lodges be revoked. It is noted that the whole roster of new officers in the first one were either bootleggers or moon-shiners. The next case seems to be something of a serious nature, but the particulars of the charges are not mentioned. We venture to wonder whether horse stealing had anything to do with the second case. During the year an official communication was issued concerning the attaching of outside organizations to the coat tail of the mother of Freemasonry, and likewise the subject of lodges giving circuses, carnivals and the like. Concerning the latter the Grand Master had the following to say: Relative to circuses, carnivals, fairs, fashion shows, gambling devices, etc., we have the following law: "Unless approved by resolution of the Grand Lodge, the use of the word Masonic in connection with any organization, business, publication, advertising device or other scheme, constitutes a Masonic offense, punishable as may be determined by Masonic law and usage." Under this resolution we forbid the use of the word Masonic in connection with any of the affairs mentioned in your letter. I want to assure you of my desire to be of service in restricting the use of the term Masonic in these connections and of my willingness to aid you in bringing a restrictive use of the Blue Degrees as a prerequisite for membersliip in other organizations.
He is heartily in sympathy with the practice of giving each brother, when raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason, a copy of the Holy Writ. Of course this practice will do no harm, but the writer is inclined to believe it is tainted too much with the "premium" proposition. Our Alabama brethren have a snug balance of almost $25,000.00 in the general fund. Their law was amended providing that a petition could be received for the degrees from one who had been rejected in another lodge, providing three years had elapsed since the date of his rejection, and that he was not still a resident within the jurisdiction of the lodge rejecting him. We wonder what our Alabama brethren will do in a case of this kind where the rejection occurred in Pennsylvania? Five of their lodges neglected to vote on a proposition to amend their Constitution and on motion the matter was referred to a special committee. The committee reported that two of the lodges were unable to secure a quorum; another one voted unanimously for the amendment but the Secretary " t h o u g h t " he mailed it to the Grand Secretary, but all of our readers know the story of what " I thought" once did; three of.the lodges failed to have a representative before the committee and it was recommended that the Masters of these lodges be summoned to appear at the next Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge. We find another of their excellent reports concerning the Masonic Home, which occupies fifty-three pages of the Proceedings, but the report is well worth the expense and we commend its excellent form to other Grand Jurisdictions, not excepting our own. Among the
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331
various things in this report we observe that the Christmas offering amounted to almost $1,300.00. We find in the report of the Committee on Appeals a case where an old brother seventy-eight years of age, now residing in Oklahoma, desired to unite with a lodge in that jurisdiction, but the records of the lodge of which he was formerely a member (the charter having been revoked) showed that he stood suspended for non-payment of dues. The committee recommended that a dimit be granted, free of charge. We rise to ask when and how was the good brother restored? Through the Committee on Jurisprudence we find the following transfer of property of a defunct lodge, by a quit claim deed from the Grand Lodge to another lodge, and as the circumstances are rather unusual we quote it for the benefit of our readers: Your Committee on Masonic Jurisprudence, to which was referred the resolution that the property of the defunct lodge known as George "Washington Lodge No. 24, be granted to Amity Lodge No. 54, beg leave to report favorably thereon, and we recommend the adoption of the following resolution: Be It Resolved by the M.-. W.-. Grand Lodge A.-. F.-. & A.-. M.-. of Alabama that the property, both real and personal, belonging to the M.'.W.-. Grand Lodge by virtue of the fact that it was once the property of George. Washington Lodge No. 24, be conveyed by proper deed to Amity Lodge No. 54, and that the M.'. W .•, Grand Master be, and he is hereby authorized, to execute in the name of the M .•. W.-. Grand Lodge A.-. F.-. & A.'. M.'. of Alabama proper quit claim deeds of conveyance to tlie property when the description is known, above referred to, the same to be attested- by the Grand Secretary' and the seal of the Grand Lodge thereto attached. Concerning t h e endorsement of a Masonic journal, we quote t h e following from t h e report of t h e C o m m i t t e e on J u r i s p r u d e n c e : Your Committee on Masonic Jurisprudence to which was referred t h e resolution endorsing the Southern Masonic Journal, beg leave, to report unfavorably thereon, as it is the opinion of your committee that the Grand Lodge should not lend its endorsement to any business or enterprise over which it has not complete control.
If the reason for refusing to endorse this journal is based on t h e fact that the Grand Lodge had no control, then how could our good brethren of Alabama endorse so many outside organizations predicating their membership on Masonry, as their Grand Lodge certainly has no control over such societies? Through the same committee they extended the hand of sympathy to the brethren in Italy, which we presume is all right as the Grand Lodge of Alabama extended fraternal relations t o such Grand Lodge. The report of the Committee on Correspondence was again presented by Brother FRED WALL,.and is worthy of the perusal of any Ma-
son and especially the brethren of their own Grand Jurisdiction. In reviewing our own Proceedings for 1925 we fear he did not follow up the New Hampshire proposition in our Proceedings; otherwise he would not have stated that he was pleased to learn that the
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CORRESPONDENCE—ALBERTA.
February,
strained relations between Kansas and New Hampshire were disappearing. No, v.'e have gone far beyond the "cable tow's" length, and so far as Kansas is concerned the incident is forever closed. OLIVER D A Y STREET, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Guntersville. GEORGE A. BEAUCHAMP, R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary, Montgomery. F R E D WALL, Correspondent, Athens.
Next Annual, Montgomery, November 30, 1926.
ALBERTA —1926. Lodges, 145; members, 12,672; net gain, 322. Banff, June 9, 1926.
NORMAN E . GARRUTHERS, M.-.W.". Grand
Master. M.'.W.'. Brother S. J. BLAIR, our Grand Representative, was
present. Speaking of conditions in their jurisdiction we quote the following from the preface to the Grand Master's address: The report of the Grand Secretary on membership shows that on December 12th, 1925. our numbers totalled 12,672. Not only has our numerical increase been eminently satisfactory—and in this particular we are the least concerned— but healthy and vigorous growth has taken place in all lines of Masonic activity. Our meeting places today are comfortable, well-furnished rooms, in many cases the property of the subordinate lodges. The ritualistic work is most uniform, our constitution and ceremonials have been carefully revised: our benevolent fund, invested in Government bonds, has reached the sum of $107,000. With all this praiseworthy record, I. as a member of this Grand Lodge since its inception, would be dissatisfied were I not fully convinced that a large percentage of our membership realize more fully as the fleeting years pass by, our real duties to GOD, our country and to one another.
We take pleasure in repeating his words concerning their faithful Grand Secretary, Brother TAYLOR: So many kind things have been said in connection with our Grand Secretary by my predecessors, that I am a t a loss to express in words hitherto vinused my deep appreciation for his kindness and consideration to me during the past year. His knowledge of things Masonic is profound. His judgment is sincere, and the neatness and dispatch with which he carries on the work of the Grand Secretary's olBce is very gratifying. I regret that during the past six months his health has not been such as we had hoped for. 1 sincerely trust that with a well deserved holiday he will regain his accustomed health.
Their Grand Secretary, Brother TAYLOR, presents his twenty-first
annual report, giving a detailed account of the more important transactions of his office. The Committee on Charters and New Lodges made a favorable report on the issuance of charters for six new lodges. The Committee on Jurisprudence ruled that charges should be preferred against a member of one of their lodges who had defaulted in
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CORRESPONDENCE—ARIZONA.
333
a trust of a financial nature, and had left the country and was actually a fugitive from justice. The question was raised because the brother's dues were paid to date. We regret to note that there is no reference to our jurisdiction in the review of Proceedings. T. F . ENGLISH, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Calgary. - S. Y. TAYLOR, R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary, Calgary.
Next Annual, Calgary, June 8, 1927.
ARIZONA—1926. Lodges, 35; members, 5,901; net gain, 213. Tucson, February 9, 1926.
CLEMENT HENRY COLMAN, M.".W.".
Grand Master. M.-.W.'. Brother
JAMES HENEY BARRETT, our Grand
Repre-
sentative, was present. The Grand Master in presenting his address, had nothing outside of the ordinary to submit, but from the following words we take it that his heart was in the work: I little thought that my year of service would terminate so quickly, and In the performance of the functions of my office 1 have endeavored to give due consideration to the many matters submitted to me, and I am thankful that He who watches over us all, has guided,me safely through my term and has permitted me to assemble with you today in this our Forty-fourth Annual Commimication. Brethren, in greeting you here today a t the opening of this annual session I congratulate you on the unity and goodfellowship, which prevails throughout our jurisdiction and the progress and prosperity of the Craft.
A special dispensation was granted to Kaibab Lodge No. 25 of Utah to make a pilgrimage under what is termed the Kaibab Caravan Association to the Kaibab Forest in the territory of Arizona, north of the Grand Canyon. This has become an interesting event in the history of the Craft of Utah and unless one is familiar with the natural conditions of the Grand Canyon and the country surrounding it they might wonder why a Lodge in Utah should journey to Arizona to .hold this Communication. From a complete report on the subject submitted several years ago we take it that this trip is a most enjoyable one and very conducive to good fellowship among the brethren who are permitted to participate. We note that their Wayfarers' Club at Whipple Barracks made appeals to other jurisdictions for financial aid without the consent of the Grand Master, resulting in a number of inquiries being received as to whether it had the Grand Master's official sanction. In all such cases it is reported that he gave the appeal his hearty approval. In our jurisdiction appeals of this kind can only be made after the matter has
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CORRESPONDENCE—ARIZONA.
February,
been given due consideration by our Grand Master and his consent is given. Their District Deputy Grand Masters we assume are selected from the Past Masters as indicated by the following in the report of their Grand Lecturer: I wish t o call attention of the Masters and representatives present that it is necessary t h a t a majority of the Masters agree upon a Past Master for the office of Deputy Grand Lecturer and send their recommendations to the Grand Lecturer who will then malte the appointment. Promptness in submitting recommendations will enable your Deputy to start working first of the year, instead of months late.
As a matter of interesting reading we are pleased to quote the following from
the
oration delivered
by
M.'.W.'. Brother
JAMES
MALOTT:
To every Mason who thinks or studies along Masonic lines there comes a time when he asks himself, not only What is Masonry? but Why is Masonry? No one has y e t been able to speak with absolute authority upon either of these subjects, since the origin of the fraternity is so shrouded in mystery that no man can refer to any known document and say definitely: " This is the purpose of Masonry." For this reason each individual Mason is free to hold his own conception of Masonry and to interpret it to the best of his ability. The field covered by our ritualistic teachings is so broad that the greatest of our Masonic students differ, not only in their ideas of what Masonry teaches, but In their conceptions of what it is, and the individual interpretations of Masonry depend largely upon the particular field of thought in which the student is interested. To those who are primarily interested in religion. Masonry makes its deepest impression as a religious organization; to those who are interested in morality and ethics, t h e moral teachings of Masonry are of the greatest importance; to those who are interested in the practical welfare of mankind, the teachings of our fraternity with reference to the relations between men carry the deepest appeal. So far as Ancient Masonry is concerned, we have opinions, conjectures and theories. We do know, however, that operative Masons were more or less organized for mutual welfare in a society which has become the Masonic Fraternity of today. From the first known Masonic document, dated about 1390, we conclude that, at that time, the fraternity was an organization of operative Masons who were closely aftUiated with the Catholic Church. Next we can refer to the Harleian Manuscript, dated about 1G70, from which we learn that the craft had ceased to be Catholic in character, although it was still distinctively a Christian organization. We also know that, in some lodges at least. Masonry had ceased to be entirely operative by that date. • The ^vritten history of Modern Masonry—in fact. Modern Masonry itself, may be said t o begin with the organization of the Grand Lodge of England in 1717. No doubt all of you are familiar with that great event when four London lodges met together, organized a Grand Lodge, elected a Grand Ma.ster, and claimed jimsdiction over all lodges within ten miles of London; and how thereafter their jurisdiction broadened until that Grand Lodge became the source of Alasonlc iurisdiction for the Grand Bodies of the entire world. Shortly after the creation of the Grand Lodge it took a step which changed the entire course of Masonry in my opinion. - T h a t step was the change in the charge on GOD and religion. Theretofore Christianity, in Its theological sense, had been a test or a qualification for Masonic membership. Unless you were a Christian, you could not become a Mason. Thereafter, however, the craft broke away from religious qualifications and placed the fraternity upon a broader
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basis, where we could include all religions and oppose none. We accepted each qualified individual, irrespective of his religion, so long as he believed in the existence of a Supreme Being and the immortality of the soul. By reason of this change Masonry ceased to be a inere sectarian organization and was able to develop into the all Inclusive fraternity that It is today. This great change was not without opposition in the craft. In fact it was one of the principal causes of the great schism which culminated in the organization of a rival Grand Lodge. That breach was not healed until 1813. But on St. John's Day, 1813, there was a reconciliation and merger of the so-called "Moderns" and "Ancients" and the offending article was finally adopted by both bodies as follows: " Let a man's religion or mode of worship be what it may. he is not excluded from the Order, provided he believes in the Glorious Architect of Heaven and Earth and practices the sacred duties of Morality." Today the Modernist, the Fundamentalist, the Gentile, the Jew and the Mohammedan can gather in our lodge rooms, each knowing full well, not only that his right to worship his GOD in his own way will never be impugned by a brother but that right will be protected by the strength of our whole fraternity. We notice that our brethren of Arizona have officially recognized what is known as The Grand Lodge Pacifico, claiming jurisdiction over lower California and the States of Sonora and Sinaloa. The Grand . Master of Arizona it seems paid an official visit to this Grand Lodge and at this Communication of the Grand Lodge of Arizona they received as their distinguished guest the Grand Master of the Pacifico Grand Lodge, and his address although delivered in Spanish, was translated and is made a part of the Proceedings, occupying ten pages. The Committee on Masonic Sanatorium at Oracle submitted a very interesting report and we quote the following, believing the information contained therein may be of value to our readers: A short time ago, we physicians well remember how every case of tuberculosis, curable and inciu-able, was advised to seek a change of climate. However, though a great deal is attributable to climate in aflecting a cure, other agents are also important,—such as good food, a contented mind, absolute rest and medical attention and direction. One expert states that it is his opinion that purity of air is the most important factor in all good climates for tuberculosis; and that is found in elevated regions, in the desert, and on the seas. Another says,—"Climate comes far down the scale in curative properties," yet adds, "enjoyable summers and delightful winters act at night as a tonic cool air bath from which the patient comes forth in the morning rejuvenated." Climate, as defined by medical men, is the sum total of the atmospheric conditions which increase or decrease the physiological functions of the body. The invalid seeks a place where it is cool in summer and warm in winter. One does not look in the gloom of the forest for pure air; nor in the slums of the city, but on the open hilltops in the sunlight. After years of observation, we are convinced that all things being equal, the climate or region best suited for the greatest number of tubercular patients Is where there is an abimdance of sunshine, a moderate elevation, equable temperature—not too hot or too cold—an absence of humidity, and purity of air. The Grand Lodge owns property at Oracle and it is their purpose to make this an important spot for those afflicted with tuberculosis.
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COBBESPONDENCE—ARIZONA.
February.
Climatic conditions must be most satisfactory as indicated by the folloTOng v/ords from this report: These qualities we beUeve are found at Oracle, Arizona. It has a moderate elevation of 4,502 feet, a mean annual rainfall of 19.55 inches, greatest In July and August, when the delightful rains are as refreshing as a good night's sleep. The temperature over twenty years' observation shows the highest mean 73.7 and the lowest mean 50.
A member of their Grand Lodge known as W.'. Brother Rev. J. RocKWOOD JENKINS, submitted a resolution to the effect that the present funeral service had become "increasingly unsatisfactory"; that it was too long and contained many expressions not consistent with the deeper principles of Masonry and the truth of immortality and that it does not fulfill its purpose in bringing consolation to the bereaved; also, that lodges are even compelled to cut portions of the service and make changes in the wording, the better to meet the needs of^the occasion. Then this good brother goes further and suggests that there was no necessity of regularly opening and closing a Lodge of Master Masons to perform this service and after all this, he recommends that a committee be appointed to revise the funeral service and report at the next Annual Communication. To our absolute astonishment we find that the recommendation was adopted and he was made chairman of such committee. With no disrespect for this distinguished minister who submitted the proposition we cannot refrain from saying that in the opinion of the writer his action is in full accord and an index with the so-called progressive spirit in many of our Grand Lodges, and illustrates beyond a question of doubt that a few good brethren of this kind will soon undermine the whole structure of Ancient Craft Masonry. To the notion of the writer there is nothing more beautiful in our ceremonies than the funeral service, and of course it would be absolutely ridiculous to perform this ceremony unless the lodge was opened and closed in the usual manner. Of course we anticipate that when our good brother makes his report his ceremony will be of such a character that it will not require the services of the officers of a Lodge, but no doubt will be put in the hands of some preacher, and according to local custom it will be at a cost of so much per. NELSON C . BLEDSOE, M.". W.". Grand Master, Bisbee. GEORGE J. ROSKRUGB, R.*. W . ' . Grand Secretary, Tucson.
Next Annual, Phoenix, February 8, 1927.
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CORRESPONDENCE—ARKANSAS.
337
ARKANSAS—1925. Lodges, 560; members, 35,550; net loss, 402. Little Rock, November 17, 1925. STORM O . WHALEY, M.-. W . - . Grand Master. Brother Louis BAUERLBIN, our Grand Representative, was present. We regret to show in our statistical tables at the close of this report that Arkansas had a net loss of 402 in their membership, which we are satisfied is an error, yet we cannot go back of the returns and the result as obtained from the synopsis of returns shown on page 147 of their 1925 Proceedings. The 1924 Proceedings showed a membership of 35,952 while these Proceedings show a membership of 35,550, being a net loss of 402. If, however, you take the increase and deduct from it the decrease for 1925 it would show a net gain of 1,048, which added to the membership of 1924 would show a membership of 37,000. The Grand Master presents a very interesting address and as a matter of information to our own brethren we take pleasure in quoting the following: Brethren, another year book has been written in each of our lives since last we assembled. Some of Its pages have been blotted with unerasible tear marlis, other with quivering letters, but many of the pages have been printed in golden characters of good deeds, chapters are filled with the love of little children, the deep respect of neighbors and friends; and poems of praise and thanksgiving to a kindly GOD who has allowed us the allotted time and strength to complete the volume. Each of us has the volume locked In our Inner heart today, but In your countenance and mine is reflected the synopsis of the year's story, be it kindly or sad. While Death had slashed some bitter heart tearing gashes among us that seem to be unhealing and unbearable, yet we are forced to push on and gather more closely, hold on and prize each other more dearly as we all move along the endless escalator toward a common doom.
The Federation of Labor, which has been subjected to the most hellish, insiduous, undermining propaganda since the war, has beaten off this bloodsucking python and has driven it back into the dark seas of Russia from whence it came, and where It can best thrive in darkness and ignorance. We have learned that we cannot tear the arm of Labor from the body of Capital, for each would be useless without the other. I believe that Masonry can claim a large credit In this country for the stabilizing horse sense that has kept our many half-digested, partially-fermented, newly American population from becoming menaces to peaceful government. I beUeve that the year has brought an awakening as to law enforcement. We are realizing that the hardened criminal Is a mad dog that must be killed or penned up and that he as quickly bites the friendly hand of sentimentality so often extended to him as he appreciates it. More consideration and solace is offered some hardened criminal than is given some educator who has broken his body and Impoverished his familj' In training generations of our boys and girls. At last the public has changed Its views regarding law enforcement, but we must admit that the change has been largely from selfish reasons. As the old saying goes, " I t depends upon whose ox Is gored," and the red hand of crime has clutched so many homes and communities since the war that the
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CORRESPONDENCE—ARKANSAS.
February,
spirit of righteous resentment is aroused, and I predict that the next few years will witness a period of law enforcement that may swing even to ths ostrcmc of harshness, for the country has been pricked and nettled with unpunished crime. Referring to the Eighteenth Amendment he offered the following in defense of his own" jurisdiction and we are certainly favorably inclined to this distinguished Craftsman in standing up for his own state: I believe that we are coming into a better attitude toward the 18th Amendment. The drinking among our young people, wliich a year or two ago flourished so widely, has begun to wane—the tlirill of forbidden fruit has died away with the first unpleasant taste and our young people's admiration for clean, wholesome bodies as well as alert, active minds has saved them. Only the lounge lizard persists in carrying his hip flask, and maybe that is Nature's way of allowing him to work his own destruction, with the least lost motion for the rest of us. I always feel sorry when anyone springs one of these Arkansas stories— it is such a reflection. I mean I feel sorry for the ignorance of the person, as it is such a reflection upon his lack of knowledge of the marvelous resources of Arkansas. The wise old financiers of the East and North are meeting each other at every turn of the road in Arkansas on quiet scouting trips in which they hope to get in while the larger things are still open to the forward-looking business men of the country. May I give you this slogan which I have coined, to carry back home with you and pin in your hats?: "California yesterday, Florida today and Arkansas tomorrow," and may I add that the time is past low twelve and tomorrow is already dawning. So much for our material development. Among other things he has the following to say concerning Arkansas Masonic Standing: ' Arkansas Masonry has another heroic figure in the person of Brother FAY HEMPSTEAD, " T h e Poet Laureate of Freemasonry," who has interpreted in verse the real spirit and purpose of Masonry. He is .the Dean of the Grand Secretaries of American Grand Jurisdictions, having served this Grand Lodge as Grand Secretary for a period of 44 years. In fact, he began his duties the year I was born. I have often drawn upon the reservoir of his ripened experience and have found it inexhaustible and always awaiting. I am deeply indebted t o him for his priceless advice and assistance throughout the year and the patient and kindly manner in which he has extended me every possible aid. Two years ago death claimed Past Grand Master GEORGE THORNBURGH and our Grand Jurisdiction was stunned with grief at the bitter loss. He had given his splendid life to the moral uplift of the State and fought for the cause of temperance far back there when its recruits were few. He was probably the most loved Mason in Arkansas. As an old personal friend and co-worker as Grand Secretary and Grand Recorder, the writer does not wish to take away any of the laurels bestowed upon FAY HEMPSTEAD, but according to the records he only served forty-two years, including the present year, unless he was elected and installed for the years 1899, 1901 and 1903, as these years are not listed with the others in the table showing the elective officers. Therefore we must also pay homage to our good
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—ARKANSAS.
339
Brother ALPHEUS A. KEEN, Grand Secretary of New Mexico, who is now serving his forty-second consecutive and uninterrupted year as Grand Secretary. Our Arkansas brethren are much interested in the Baptist State Hospital as we infer from the following covered in the Grand Master's address: I suggest that this Grand Lodge set forth more clearly just what is contemplated in our agreement with the Baptist State Hospital of Little Rock, for the care of medical and surgical patients referred t o it by the Grand Lodge through its Grand Master. The present resolution has proven to be very unsatisfactory in that many have interpreted it to mean that we will care for all sorts of chronic.and incurable diseases, also some have taken it in the light of a home for the aged and feeble. All of which cases have our utmost sympathy, but It would be impossible for the Grand Lodge to care for its aged members in a hospital at $2.00 per day. I have, during my year, construed the law to mean that we undertake to care for those who are in need of emergency treatment, of a medical or surgical nature. I have been forced t o refuse many applicants, most of them chronic sufferers from incurable diseases, or aged and dependent Brothers without homes. As a conclusion to his address he had the following to submit under the word "Closing": This brings to a close my labors for the year. During my term of office if there has been anything near and dear to my heart, it has been a desire to give to every boy and girl in Arkansas a chance to better his lot and to build his future. Your future and mine, so far as to whether we are good citizens or not, is already settled. It was determined back in those formative years from 12 to 20. The future of Arkansas depends upon what your boy or girl and mine are thinking about today, and what they are thinking about depends upon where they are, who tiiey are with and what tiiey are doing. We have provided well for the orphan and afllicted children of our State; and through our Pension Fund and Hospital Service have provided refuge for our unfortunate brethren; but have we not a duty to perform for your children and mine? To see that every boy and girl in Arkansas remains in school until he finishes a good high school course, at least. You reply we have our compulsory school laws—let's not discuss laws, let us talk like the big family that we are. whose children are playing about our feet and whose future depends upon whether you and I go to sleep or not. Run the film of your neighborhood tlirough your mind. What is Brother JIM BROWN'S 14-year old boy doing out of school this year? Will he ever go back again? Does .TIM realize that whether tiis boy goes back to school this fail determines forever his future? The parting of the ways has come. Not one pupil out of several hundred ever returns to school after missing one year. The Chairman of the Cornmittee on Correspondence, Brother A. B. LITTLE, refers to the Grand Lodge of New York withdrawing fraternal relations with Belgium and the writer might add that it would not be a bad plan to note a few more withdrawals on the part of the New York Grand Lodge within the next few years. He also notes that the only Grand Lodge now recognizing the so-called Valle de Mexico is Texas. The writer is not greatly surprised.
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CORRESPONDENCE—ARKANSAS.
February,
From the Gran d Orator's address we take pleasure in quoting the following: Masonry, as a working organization, as well as an instructive institution, with a distinct, well-defined mission to fulfill in its world-wide undertakings, has been, for generations, subjected to due examination and strict trial, by both friend and foe, and every investigation of its claims. Its labors, or its merits, has not only failed to find anything worthy of condemnation, but has rather called forth commendation from aU who have at heart the best Interests of the human race In the advancement of its culture and comfort, as well as Its peace and prosperity; and as long as Masonry is true to itself, faithful to its trust, loyal to its laws, rules and regulations, and continues to fulfill its mission in accordance with Its obligation, it will ever stand approved by all who are interested In the cause of a common humanity. Masonry has a mission as noble and ennobling as any mission of human origin ever entrusted to man; and in all ages of the past it has accomplished its mission, both for its own credit and for the benefit of mankind. The mission of Masonry-is to build, and Masons have been builders from time immemorial. Building is their profession—it always has been, is now and ever must be their profession; and the work they have left, as a record of the past, tells, In language intelligible and terms unmistakable, that they honored their profession; and the imperishable fame they won by their labors in the operative art is a silent and impressive admonition to all who are engaged in the speculative science of Masonry today, to go and do likewise in erecting a temple more durable than s t o n e ^ a temple composed of Uvely stones, wherein every social and moral virtue dwells. These builders gradually wrought a change for the better in all society. Civillzation was advanced, nations better organized, laws enforced, cities built, protected by walls of solid masonry, comfortable residences, stately palaces, • splendid theaters, magnificent temples, beautiful cathedrals, and Impregnable fortresses arose in every land under the labor of the Craftsmen, as a result of their undertaking, and all designed to promote the safety, comfort, convenience and general welfare of every community where they wrought, as well as to exhibit culture, refinement, permanence and progress of every department of society. The noble, the learned, and the wealthy took a deep interest in the labors of the Craft, and loaned their influence, talent and money to the promotion of the work in architecture.
The voice of Masonry not only appeals to the individual life in the upbulling of character; to the man's religious thought in the broadest toleration, and yet with greatest emphasis; to the state in sustaining law and order; but it recognizes as one of its special fields of missionary endeavor the relief of want and woe and suffering, and looks upon the worthy distressed brother, his widow and orphan as its chief concern, teaching that those who would stand highest in love to GOD must prove his claims by practical love to man. The aged and distressed brother, when the storm and stress of life have come, with eyes dimmed, with the natural strength abated, vfith ears dulled by age and Infirmity, when the silver cord may be almost loosed, the golden bowl nearly broken, the pitcher frail at the fountain, or the wheel unsteady at the cistern, may feel the gentle but mighty arm of a great fraternity upon which he may lean with absolute security. CLAUD L . HILL, M . - . W / . Grand Master, Arkadelphia. FAY HEMPSTEAD, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, Little Rock.
Next Annual, Little Rock, November 16, 1926.
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—BRITISH
COLUMBIA.
341
BRITISH COLUMBIA —1926. Lodges, 117; members, 13,965; net gain, 572. Victoria, June 17, 1926.
ALEX M . MANSON, M.-. W.-. Grand
Master. We regret to note the absence of our Grand Representative at this Communication. We are pleased to quote the following from the Grand Master's address: Why do Lodges meet? Is It for the piirpose of merely making in a mechanical way Freemasons—of adding to the numerical strength of the Craft? Surely not. I t is for a far nobler purpose. A rap comes upon the outer door, a stranger seeks admission to our Lodge, his name is given to us and we refer his request to a committee,—a committee charged with a great responsibility. No other committee appointed by the Lodge has so important a duty as the Committee of Enquiry. Into its hands is given the duty of protecting the Lodge and t h e whole Fraternity. What is it to seek—perfection? No, not that. That were useless. What then? Simply this, to ascertain whether it can find in the heart of the stranger good character and in his mind a willingness to have liis character moulded to richer, better things. The stranger must come under the tongue of good report. It will not do for the committee to report to the Lodge t h a t i t can And nothing against the stranger. This is a day of gambling, a day of taking, chances, but this is no place to take a chance. With pains and diligence the c o m mittee must search as far afield as occasion may require to learn the truth*. Only when it has searched in most diligent and faithful fashion can it come t o the Lodge with the report which to the Lodge is due. And withall the c o m mittee must be fair to the stranger, must remember that he is formed of justi the same clay as we, subject to all the human frailties and with a heart just as< .sii.sneptihle of wounding as is ours. There must be fairness, but if there is; doubt then clearly the benefit of the doubt must be given to the Lodge. The stranger may rap again at a later date but the Lodge for its own sake and for the sake of the Fraternity must see to it that it only accepts a stranger who cornea under the tongue of good report. The committee, having discharged its d u t y faithfully,—if the Lodge has confidence that it has done so,—then'the report should not be lightly thrown aside. True it is that we vest in each individual member of the Lodge the prerogative of saying whether or not the stranger shall be admitted. No one may question the exercise of that prerogative, a n d yet, standing before the altar, choosing as between the dark and the white* in the secret place, we should choose without malice and without pettiness and with an eye single to the welfare of the Craft. The choice of the dark from motives of pettiness or malice, from any improper motive, is the wielding of the cowardly stiletto of the assassin. Brethren, I can only say to you, as eminent and illustrious predecessors of mine in this Grand Lodge and Grand Masters throughout the world have said to the Fraternity in years gone by,—the prerogative of the ballot is one that should be exercised in the utmost good conscience, and, having been exercised, the book is closed. What has been done is not a matter for the street. A Freemason's tongue should never be loose, and, least of all, should it be loose with regard to the business of the Lodge, and in particular with regard to the exercise of the ballot.
The Grand Master disapproved of the use of the word " M a s o n i c " in connection with a club. He was called upon to reprimand one of their lodges for passing a ballot containing no black cubes.
342
CORRESPONDENCE—BRITISH
COLUMBIA.
February.
He was likewise called upon to consider the physical qualification proposition as one of their lodges wanted to know whether a candidate who was unable to kneel was eligible. One of their Junior Wardens preferred charges against a member; however, the lodge declined to entertain the same and thereupon the Junior Warden appealed t o the Grand Master who ruled that the lodge erred and directed that the charges be reconsidered. The Committee on Grand Master's address, however, ruled that the remedy for neglect of the lodge to do its duty did not lie with the Grand Master but with the Grand Lodge. The following few words, taken from the report of the Grand Historian, refers to a subject to which the writer of this report as Grand Secretary has given special attention for a number of years and we are pleased to report that progress is being made and we are now fast gathering Masonic data so that a complete history of each lodge in our jurisdiction may eventually be compiled: Your Historian once more malies an earnest appeal to every one of our Lodges in this Jurisdiction to send something to their Grand Historian to show that work beyond that of our Masonic ritual and benevolence has been accomplished during the year, the recital of which may urge others to go and do likewise.
The Grand Lodge was not umihdful of the illness of their Grand Organist who for many years has served in that capacity in the Grand Lodge and adopted a resolution of sympathy expressing hopes for his speedy recovery. The financial estimates s h o w that with a niembership of about 14,000 they pay their Grand Secretary $2,000.00 per annum. Their Grand Secretary, Brother W. A. DEWOLF-SMITH, prepared the usual Report on Correspondence and in it we note a kindly reference to our 1925 journal. He refers to the address of Grand Master STRAIN, referring particularly to his allusion to physical qualification. We call attention to the findings of our Special Committee in the 1926 Proceedings on this subject which forever settles the question of physical qualifications so far as our jurisdiction is concerned. We will not depart from the Landmarks of Freemasonry. Brother STRAIN'S recommendation concerning changes in the funeral service did not meet with favorable action and we will therefore continue to lay away the remains of our brethren with what we have always termed the beautiful burial service. D. W. SUTHERLAND, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, Kelowana. W. A. DEWOLF-SMITH, R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary and Correspon-
dent, New Westminster. Next Annual, New Westminster, June 23, 1927.
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—CALIFORNIA.
343
CALIFORNIA —1926. Lodges, 555; members, 122,412; net gain, 6,895. San Francisco, October 12, 1926. ALBERT E . BOYNTON, M.-. W.-. Grand Master. Our review of California is based, as heretofore, on an advance summary of their Proceedings and not from the regular annual publication. The writer prefers to do this rather than review their Proceedings for our 1928 Proceedings. We are therefore unable to make any reference to the Report on Correspondence or the disposition of various subjects by the committees. • From the preface to the Grand Master's address we- quote the following: * * * pride in that my brethren elevated me to the exalted station of Grand Master and that they have so cordially and whole-heartedly co-operated with me and supported me In my endeavors to keep the ship of Freemasonry on an even keel; pride In the evident ambition of my brethren to sustain the reputation of our venerable Institution for the practical application of our avowed virtues of brotherly love, relief, and truth; pride in the splendid men who have In the year been added to the rolls of our membership; pride in the applied Masonry evidenced in your hearty support of our two visible and noble monuments to Service, the Masonic Homes, one for the care of the bodies and the solace of the souls of our aged brethren, their wives, widows and mothers who, through fickle fortune, have been deprived of home; and the other for the children who have been bereft of their natural guardians. In which Home the fraternity is engaged in the God-given work of building character and good citizenship. More than even all this, I am proud of the quiet and unostentatious work of relief conducted by our Lodges and our brethren to those who are In need and concerning whom the public knows naught. This work is necessarily like a light hidden under a bushel, but it illustrates the finest characteristics of Freemasonry and constitutes an enduring monument greater than marble, not visible except through the eyes of the hearts of those whose sorrows and distresses have been assuaged by the helping hand and the open purse. Under the head of "Condition of Masonry" he had the following to say: The condition of Masonry within the jurisdiction, in the main. Is good. We are prospering probably as never before, both in material resources and In the character of our novitiates. We are living in an age of marvelous scientific development and in a land favored above most of the earth, and Peace and Plenty are smiling at our doors. The blessings which have been showered upon us should make us rejoice as with DAVID of old: " T h e Lord Is my shepherd, I shall not want. He maketh me to lie'down In green pastures; He restoreth my soul. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell In the house of the Lord forever." Under the head of "Politics in Masonry" he refers to the issuance of printed slips prior to their last state primary, addressed to members of the Craft, soliciting their votes for certain candidates, listing their names in the communication. The matter came before the Grand
344
CORRESPONDENCE—CALIFORNIA.
February,.
Master who deplored the fact that such methods had been adopted and from his remarks we quote the following: In tJie first place, it was a reflection on tlie intelligence of the voters to whom it was sent. Secondly, the list did not contain the names of all the candidates who are members of the fraternity and it did contain the names of somewho are not members. Thirdly, the Master should have known that no Lodge is justified in attenaptlng to advance the interest of any candidate or group of candidates for public offlce. The Old Charges of 1722 respecting the behavior of Masons have ever been a safe guide, and the injunction that we are '-'resolved against all" politics, as what never yet conduced to the welfare of the Lodge, nor ever will," is a doctrine which must not be infringed. The duty of a Mason to take an intelligent interest in all affairs relating to the public weal is, of course, obvious. As a citizen, he should give careful consideration to the fitness of a ca,ndidate for public offlce, and this consideration should go to the individual worth and-ability of aspirants for public favor. The circular sent out by the Master of the Lodge was a plain and unmistakable intimation' that none but Masons should be voted for at the primary election, without regard to the competency or moral worth of any candidate, thus rightly, in the minds of non-Masons, placing the Masonic fraternity in a most unenviable light as being supporters of men merely because of their affiliation with our Craft; U n d e r t h e same head he refers t o an over-zealous secretary t o one of t h e highest officers in their s t a t e s e n d i n g out circular letters addressed t o t h e Masonic bodies a n d affiliated organizations, extolling t h e virtues of his c a n d i d a t e because he w a s a M a s o n . T h e G r a n d M a s t e r felt justified in issuing a c o m m u n i c a t i o n t o t h e M a s t e r of t h e lodge of which t h e c a n d i d a t e was a m e m b e r . F r o m his communication on t h i s subject we q u o t e t h e following: It is extremely unfortunate that a candidate for public offlce should .permit matter of the sort to be sent out, for it is highly un-Masonic and generally results in a reaction against such candidate. No Mason having regard for the tenets of our Institution should use or attempt to use his membership in a Lodge to further his political ambitions. As Master of the Lodge in which this candidate is a member, I direct that you call this matter to the attention of the campaign manager and of the brother himself. I assume that a mere intimation of the impropriety will be sufficient. A Mason has no right to subordinate Masonry to his business or political interests and you should make this very clear to the two offending bretliren.
The Grand Master was likewise called upon to pay his respects to the so-called Masonic insurance vender and in no uncertain terms spoke against this practice in their jurisdiction. His objection was not so much against the merits of insurance but against the practice of some agents in securing business. We quote but one paragraph from the Grand Master's letter: A concrete case is that of a present member of a Lodge in California who received his first degree December 10, 1925; the second, January 21, 1926, and the third, May 20, 1926. On or about January 22, 1926, he was approached by an agent who solicited insurance in yoiu- company from this Fellow Craft, receiving therefor the sum of $16.40 and givng a receipt on which was written "Policy to be dated February 16, 1926." This Fellow Craft was led to believe
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—CALIFORNIA.
345
that the Insurance thus solicited was authorized by the Masonic fraternity. As soon as he discovered that the company using same was not so connected, he ordered that thei policy be discontinued. He likewise was called u p o n t o p a y his respects t o t h e l o t t e r y a n d raffle fiend. T h i s subject is so reprehensible t o t h e average good Mason t h a t we pass it up w i t h o u t further c o m m e n t s . Under t h e head of " R i g h t of M a s t e r t o Refuse P e t i t i o n " we quote t h e following: I am firmly of the belief that the election and conferring of the degrees in this instance would have brought odium on the Craft, and that I would have been justified, in that event, in suspending the charter of the Lodge and ordering charges preferred against the Master. I advised the Master to that effect. At a subsequent stated meeting, the investigating committee reported adversely on the petition and the obnoxious petitioner was declared rejected. Our law distinctly states that " N o Lodge * * * shall receive an application for the degrees of Masonry unless the applicant be * * * of moral conduct'* and recommended by at least two members of the Lodge. In the case of this pugilist, I believe the Master should not only have refused to permit the petition to go before the Lodge, but that it was his duty to order his Junior Warden to prefer charges of un-Masonic conduct against the two members of his Lodge who so far forgot their obligations to the fraternity as to sponsor and recommend a notorious character whose membership would be a stench in the nostrils of all decent Masons and make a laughing-stock of California Masonry. We consider t h e following few words from t h e subject of " S u s p e n sion for N o n - P a y m e n t of D u e s " w o r t h y of repetition and we s u b m i t it as a m a t t e r of good advice t o our own lodges: There is only one valid reason why any member should be suspended for non-payment of dues, and that is that the member desires to definitely withdraw from all Masonic work and interest. The Master should appoint a committee composed of members who have a knack of reaching the hearts—and purses—of men, and who will, personally or by letter, interview every delinciuent member and impress upon such member that his Lodge is the best Lodge in the jurisdiction, and this without disparagement to any other Lodge; that there should be a pride in the membership; that, if the brother is ill or out of employment or otherwise in distress, the dues will be remitted and a receipt issued to him for the amount of the delinquent dues. Or, if it be ascertained that the brother may be living beyond his means or has developed some bad habit that entails the expenditure of too much money, to encourage him into a better mode of living. Some of our larger and more prosperous Lodges' work on this plan with satisfactory results.
Under the head of "Co-operative Masonic Service Bureaus" he reports having appointed a committee of three as per the action of their Grand Lodge in 1924, to investigate relief and employment matters and report at the next Annual Communication their findings and recommendations. The appointment was based on the following resolution, adopted by the Grand Lodge: Resolved, that the Grand Master appoint a Board of Control for Boards of Relief and Employment Bureaus, consisting of five members, one to serve three years, two to serve two years and two to serve one year, and each Grand Master shall appoint the successors to those whose terms expire, said successors to serve for a period of three years.
346
CORRESPONDENCE—CANADA.
February,
This proposition contemplates a general supervision over boards or relief and employment bureaus. We believe the proposition is a good one and in view of the wonderful growth of lodges and membership in our own jurisdiction such plan would be advisable. The Grand Lodge, however, changed the number t o five instead of three and the committee is styled a Board of Control over and supervision of the activities of all boards of relief and employment bureaus. GEOKGE L . JONES, M . - . W . ' . Grand Master, Nevada City. JOHN WHICHER, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, San Francisco. JESSE M . WHITED, Correspondent, San Francisco.
CANADA-1926. Lodges, 512; members, 107,676; net gain, 2,337. Fort William and Port Arthur, July 21, 1926. JOHN A. ROWLAND, M.'.W.'. Grand Master. We regret to note the absence of our Grand Representative at this Communication. Addresses of welcome were extended to the brethren by the mayors of both cities. From that delivered by the mayor of Fort William we are pleased to quote the following: We are proud of our City, and hope that during your visit with us you may have the opportunity of learning something of our history. Here it was, In early days, the noble redman skimmed our waters in his birch bark canoe, and here at the mouth of our majestic Kaminlstiquia. centuries ago, he bartered his pelts for the necessities of life, brought to our shores by the adventurous representatives of the great fur companies. Legends of the by-gone days are very dear to our people. On a summer evening as we look out over the dreamy blue of our great inland sea, with its rugged shores crimsoned by the last rays of the setting sun and we listen to the stories of the Sleeping Giant, the Thunder Eagle and old Mount McKay, we dwell in the memories and the magic of the past, and full expression is given to fancy and imagination. May I wish for you that while you mingle with us you may catch something of the lure and the charm which begets in us a passionate love for our native shores.
* * * * * *
You have already seen our elevators, and it may be of interest to you to know that our Twin Cities boast a larger grain storage capacity than any. other port in the world. At the commencement of my address I made reference to the golden west, and when I tell you that in one crop year there passed through our elevators here three hundred and eighty-two million bushels of grain from the western field, you will probably better understand the reference; also when I tell you that on different occasions a lake freighter built at our Port Arthur shipyards moved out from our wharves earring a cargo of over 500,000 bushels of wheat or the product of 25,000 acres of land on the basis of 20 bushels per acre, you will realize something of our importance as a shipping centre. From the one delivered by the mayor of Port Arthur we are pleased to quote the following: One can go back to 1678 to the visit here of such Intrepid explorers and pioneers as DULUTH and L A TOIRCETTE who founded the first fur trading fort
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE— CANADA.
347
on the North Shore of Lake Superior. The present city of Duluth is named after DULUTH who journeyed there from here; and so on down to 1800 when this was one of the most important points maintained by the Hudson's Bay Company, when fur traders ruled with Iron hand and bloodshed; also the rivalries between them and competitors; of the founding of Fort WUllam on the banks of the Kamlnlstlcima Biver, an Indian name meaning a river of many mouths; down to 1870, when the Red Elver Force under Sir GARNET WOLSBLEY, which Included PRINCE ARTHUR OP CONNAUGHT, later DUKE OF CONNAUGHT,
himself a Mason of high degree, and naming the present Port Arthur after him; to September 1883 when the first Manitoba wheat was shipped by the vessel Erin, a 10,000-bushel cargo, in itself a momentous occasion; as well as the arrival of the first small cargo of coal for western consumption In 1882; the story of the Silver Islet, the founding of Shunlah Masonic Lodge some fifty or sixty odd years ago; the coming of the C. P. and C. N. Rys., the whole period Is filled with legend and historical and Industrial romance of intense Interest, but time will not permit of Indulgence in them here. The Grand Master, among other things, had the following to say in presenting his annual address: Once more we are assembled to review the work for the Masonic year t h a t has just closed and In the light of the knowledge and experience it has brought to lay our plans for the year t o come. I t is a familiar thought that we are living In strange and perplexing times. The old order Is breaking down; a new one is struggling to take its place. And I sometimes think that out of the chaos and confusion of these recent years there Is emerging, slowly, perhaps, but surely and into a clearer light, something that bears a strange and striking likeness to what we call the Spirit of Masonry.
To repeat a familiar phrase, the past year has been one of peace, of hariiy and of progress. The feverish excitement of the post-war period has given way to more sane and well-ordered activity In Masonic affairs. I t used to be said of a great British statesman that he could give to his budget speeches the charm of a romance. I am not the possessor of that happy power and I shall therefore content myself with laying before you as a matter of Interest and for the purpose of comparison a few statistics only, and refer you for a more complete record of pur growing membership and material wealth to the detailed reports of the Grand Secretary and the Grand Treasurer. The Grand Master ruled that a candidate should receive his first degree in the lodge in which his application is accepted. The Committee on Jurisprudence, however, amended it slightly to the effect that this be the policy of the Grand Lodge unless in case of urgent necessity the Grand Master may use his own judgment. The Grand Master made the following rulings, which were approved by the Grand Lodge: That a ballot, wherein a brother voted who was not a member of the lodge, was invalid. A blind man is ineligible to receive the degrees. The Secretary of a lodge must not allow access to his mailing list or books to any unauthorized person.
348
CORRESPONDENCE—CANADA.
February,
We quote in full the following ruling as a matter of information to our readers: If a brother, suspended for non-payment of dues, tenders the amount due at the time of his suspension plus the dues which he would have paid in the meantime if he had been in good standing, the lodge must accept the amount and restore him, and no resolution is necessary.
It seems from the following that they permit members to receive a dimit even though they are not clear on the books: A demitted member who is indebted for dues to the lodge in which he took his demit, is not eligible to affiliate with any other lodge while the dues remain unpaid. T h e i r G r a n d Lodge e x t e n d e d f r a t e r n a l recognition t o t h e Y o r k G r a n d Lodge of Mexico. We are s o m e w h a t surprised, however, t h a t t h e y exchanged Grand R e p r e s e n t a t i v e s with one of t h e so-called G r a n d Lodges of F r a n c e . W e t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following from t h e report of t h e C o m m i t t e e on Condition of M a s o n r y : If our present position is an enviable one it has been reached only by the exercise of constant vigilance, and it follows that only by a continuance of a similar care can our status be maintained and-our stability and prosperity for the future be assured. Let us not dream that having reached the heights already attained we can rest with any degree of security, or that we can even temporarily abandon the watch towers from which we may discern the warnings of danger within, or of foes without. And now, as always, the greatest menace is not from our exposure to external opposition, but rather from the weaknesses inherent in an organization which can hardly hope to achieve perfection so long as it draws its members from among human beings. We can do much to help or hinder, but our greatest peril must .always be from the influence of those who are Masons in name only, and who find it more expedient to drag Masonry down to their own level than to elevate themselves to a conformity with its higher standards of truth and morality. An inquiry into the condition of Masonry at home would be incomplete if it disregarded the movements and tendencies that affect Masonic tiiought and practice in other fields of labor, and which sometimes exert a pressure, more or less perceptible, on om' own development. While wc often hear of the universality of Masonry it wotild be a misinterpretation of the term if it were understood to apply to a complete uniformity In methods and rituals, and an identical prospect along the pathway of furture expansion. In this jurisdiction we claim to have followed the lead of the Mother Grand Lodge of England, and to have kept within the bounds so well established by that Grand Lodge and by those of Scotland and Ireland. But there is a so-called Masonry wliich has chafed under the restraining discipline of the old charges and regulations, and has wandered far afield into the by-paths of political and religious controversy. In general, the Grand Lodges of the English speaking world have maintained a unity of spirit and of tradition, and have enjoyed a record of almost continuous fraternal intercourse. But even among these there are noticeable divergences in practice and policy, so that a certain atmosphere may be said to have arisen that is peculiar to each jurisdiction. But in essentials there is agreement, and in non-essentials there is considerable liberty of action. The distinctive features are those that have grown up as a result of racial or temperamental differences. I t can hardly be contended, for instance, that the Masonic bodies of the British Isles, of Canada, of Australasia, and of the United States of America, are identical in development, or in outlook, but the
1926-27.
CoBBESPONDENCE—CANADA.
349
differences are merely local indications of national characteristics, and are not serious departures from the original plan. If one were to be allowed a measure of freedom in defining its broad outlines, it might not be out of place to say that the Masonry of England is differentiated from the others by its air of dignified seclusion, by its emphasis on the social side of the Order, by its conservative adherence to the original plan of Craft Masonry, by its refusal to accord official recognition or approval to concordant or auxiliary societies, and by its princely grants for the education of the young, and for the care of the aged and indigent. The English Lodge has usually a small membership, and its place of meeting is seldom notable for pretentious appearance, but a sense of magnitude is subordinated to the cultivation of a more intimate relationship among Lodge members, to the exercise of a generous benevolence, and to the amenities of social intercourse. In the United States of America a Masonry quite different from that of the old land has developed. There we find a tendency to elaborate expansion and to the growth and fostering of auxiliary organizations; a rema,rkable numerical strength throughout the country and a surprisingly large membership in some of the constituent Lodges; a fondness for palatial and costly temples; a rather dangerous inclination in some cases towards taking sides in public questions that border closely on the political: and a very commendable use of great wealth in the building and maintenance of Masonic homes and hospitals. With a sovereign Grand Lodge in each State of the Union it was only to be expected that minor differences would arise, but in general there is a very harmonious co-operation among the Grand Bodies and the Masonry of the United States has every reason to be proud of its consistent and substantial growth, and of its many splendid achievements in promoting the best ideals of Masonic teaching. The Masonry of Canada has inherited much from the Mother Grand Lodges from which it derived its origin, but it has undoubtedly been influenced In the gradual growth of its distinctive character by the facilities for fraternal Intercourse with the Masonry of the United States. We have had the opportunity of learning not only from the steady prudence of the parent, but also from the enterprising vigor of her progeny; we have profited by the lessons of experience of both old and new, and we have tried to cultivate in due proportion the vigilant caution that guards against dangerous innovation, and the forward vision that prevents a lapse into indolence and inactivity. • Outside the English speaking world there exists a great diversity in the outward observances of the organizations which have adopted the name of Freemasonry, and in the tendencies towards digression from the original plan. The policy and practice of the Order in some countries are so different from what we have learned to regard as legitimate that we should not be over anxious when we learn that its attitude towards Church and State has engendered opposition, and in some cases has led to measures of reprisal. Where Masonry has entered the turmoil of party politics and of sectarian disputes it has suffered the penalty of being regarded as a political or sectarian machine, controlled by ambitious schemers and malcontents, and even by revolutionary agitators.
The Report on Correspondence was prepared by Past Grand Master WILLIAM NISBET PONTON, and we take pleasure in quoting
the following from his "Prelude": The chronicles of the craft, the facts and factors in another year of service, have been dictated to Time's stenographer, who has recorded and broadcasted not merely the clarion call to action, but also the honored roll of those who, having served that we might share, have passed beyond the veils terrestrial, and who now know what the mission and ministry, the mastery and mystery of Masonry, really mean to all enlightened men of good will to whom the Golden Bule has been Magna Oharta and sure guide to safe haven.
350
CORRESPONDENCE—COLORADO.
February,
I am privileged once more to present to the Brethren a comprehensive summary—a circumspective survey—of the thoughts, transactions and activities of our Sister Sovereign Jurisdictions who with "us, through contact, achieve t h e larger unities, and broaden our devotion without lowering its intensity. In potency —in promise—in performance, we realize together that we have a firm foundation, an authoritative background and a cosmos for the future of immeasurable potentialities, if we think and thank, pray and praise, use and amplify the good, and ungrudgingly contribute to the sum of human happiness, with wisdom, understanding, and largeness of heart, under the Master of Life. We who write, we who read, these reviews, will gather, I feel sure, that it is our universal desire to draw more closely together in loyalty of understanding and in fellowship of action, that we may make a chain of well-forged links on the anvil,,not of weak and watery sentimentality: that our traditions be dynamic, that our working tools be not toys; that one increasing purpose may run through our age and generation, and that above all we will not "drop the Pilot." So doing, so aspiring, we who have obeyed the command in Numbers XV-38, and have " p u t upon the fringe of the borders of our garments a ribband of blue," may justly claim t o be among those who, thoroughbred here, hope t o be thoroughbred there,—GOD'S gentlemen here and in the Grand Lodge above. In his review of our 1926 Proceedings he makes a brief reference to practically every transaction at that Gommunication. Dealing with the Report on Correspondence, prepared by the writer, he quotes liberally from comments made concerning other Grand Jurisdictions. Brother PONTON'S report is all that one could expect in a review of this kind and we have no hesitation in saying that it furnishes his readers with full information as to the transactions in other Grand Lodges. JOHN A. ROWLAND, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, Toronto. WILLIAM M . LOGAN, R . \ W.-. Grand Secretary, Hamilton. WILLIAM N . PONTON, Correspondent. Next Annual, Guelph, July 20, 1927.
COLORADO —1925. Lodges, 159; m e m b e r s , 31,159; n e t gain, 908. D e n v e r , S e p t e m b e r 15, 1925. W I L L I A M N . V A I L E , M . - . W . - . G r a n d
Master. W e find t h e n a m e of our G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e missing from t h e roll of those present a t t h i s C o m m u n i c a t i o n . T h e G r a n d M a s t e r s u b m i t s t h e following in t h e p r e s e n t a t i o n of his a d d r e s s : I t is customary for retiring Grand Masters to acknowledge their indebtedness to their associate Grand Officers and to the several committees of the Grand Lodge. In my case such acknowledgment is far more than the usual recognition of loyal assistance; it is a sincere tribute of gratitude to those who actually performed my own work during my absence and who lOn account of my own inexperience assisted me to function as Grand Master during my presence. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r w a s obliged t o delegate t o t h e D e p u t y G r a n d M a s t e r t h e performance of his duties from N o v e m b e r 21st t o M a y 6 t h , on account of his absence from t h e s t a t e .
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—COLORADO.
351
He pays tribute to the writer's old time personal friend and brother. Past Grand Master MARSHALL H. DEAN, in the following words: I desire to pay an especial tribute to the diligence of Most 'Worshipful Brother MARSHALL H . DEAN, of the Denver Masonic Board of Relief. He has been exceedingly energetic and painstaking in the investigation of cases and most sympathetic in their treatment. Doctor DEAN, while a resident of Glenwood Springs, extended a needed helping hand in a professional way to a member of the family of the writer, and which forever placed him under obligations to Brother DEAN.
Under the head of "English Work" we quote the following: I t has been brought several times to my attention that the sign' of the Third Degree is given differently in the jurisdiction of our Mother, the Grand Lodge of England, than in the United States, but that in England the sign used here is taught as a matter of Masonic instruction to traveling Masons. I recommend an investigation of this subject by the Custodians of the Work with a view to ascertaining if Lodges in this Jurisdiction might advantageously supplement their instruction by a demonstration of the sign as given in England. Our good brother need not go so far away from home to find quite a difference in the matter of giving the signs, as he can learn this by visiting a few of his neighboring Grand Jurisdictions. Like our own jurisdiction he was appealed to for help in a commercial publication called " A Masonic Directory", and in dealing with the subject we quote the following, which includes a quotation from the address of the Grand Master of Ohio: I have had occasion to pass upon a rs'^uest b^^ the publishers of a so-C8jllecl Masonic Directory, for information relative to the names and locations of Masonic bodies, the publishers offering to give these books to Masonic Lodges in this jiu'isdlction for free distribution among their members. I have felt obliged to refuse such requests, on the ground that they would be necessarily used for advertising purposes and would to a greater or less extent involve a commercialization, of Masonry. I have been gratified to learn that sanction for such publications has also been refused by some of my colleagues, the Grand Masters of other Masonic jurisdictions. The Grand Master of Ohio issued his edict upon the subject in following language, and I recommend similar action by this Grand Lodge; " T h e giving of information or data, or negligently permitting it to be done by ofBcers or members of a Subordinate Lodge, F. &L A. M., of Ohio, from which a Masonic Roster or Directory is to be compiled for commercial ptu*poses, knowing the purpose for which said information or data Is to be used or when.facts are apparent from which such use may be inferred, is hereby declared to be in violation of the fundamental principles of Free Masonry, contrary to the best interests of the Order, and unmasonic conduct." U n d e r t h e h e a d of " O r g a n i z a t i o n s Building U p o n F r e e m a s o n r y " we cannot refrain from quoting t h e entire t o p i c : Masonic Grand Lodges have from time to time forbidden their members to belong to some other designated organization on the ground that such membership has been deemed Incompatible with the duties and obligations of a. Mason, or that it would, by creating distinctions, impair the harmony of the Craft, or that it would create outside interests which while basing their appeal
352
CORRESPONDENCE—COLORADO.
February,
upon their kniship to Masonry would nevertheless be beyond its jurisdiction and might therefore become a source of danger or weakness to our Institution, An example of such prohibitions is our rule forbidding membership in the organization commonly known as the "Grotto." This rule, adopted by this Grand Lodge on September 20, 1920, is as follows: " T h a t no Master Mason, a member of any Lodge under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Colorado, shall become a member by petition or otherwise of the so-called Mystic Order of the Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Bealm (or Grotto); and any Master Mason who shall become a member of said so-called Mystic Order of the Veiled Prophets of the Enchanted Eealm (or Grotto) shall be subject to Masonic discipline." And yet the Grotto is not deemed to be objectionable in itself. The reason for our rule is thus succinctly stated in the annual address of Grand Master HASLETT P . BURKE in 1921, republished by Grand Master MARSHALL H . VAN
FLEET in the following year: " N o countenance should be given to new organizations which seek to build upon Freemasonry." There are other organizations which possess many virtues but which Grand Lodges have declined to sanction because by forming adjuncts or side issues to Masonry they sap its strength, directing the interest of its members into collateral channels. The order of DeMolay has been regarded as of this character, and my predecessors, not disputing the generally beneficial result of its teachings, have consistently advised against its recognition. With these precedents I have come to be in hearty accord, though I must confess that I entered upon the duties of my office with doubts more than half resolved in favor of the DeMolay. My recommendation is that the previous action of this Grand Lodge and of its previous Grand Masters with respect to both the Grotto and DeMolay, be approved and continued.
So far as our own Grand Jurisdiction is concerned we have experienced but little trouble through what was known as the Ku Klux Klan, neither has the writer taken any interest in this organization or ever been approached upon the subject, and in quoting the following from the Grand Master's, address we do so because the proposition submitted is based absolutely upon the underlying principles of our time honored .institution: Let me, in all candor and sincerity, ask you this question: Entirely aside from its effect in the community at large has our confidence in each other as Masons been increased or diminished since the Klan came among us? " T r u t h , " we tell the Entered Apprentice, "is a divine attribute, and the foundation of every virtue. To be good men and true, is the first lesson we are taught in Masonry. On this theme we contemplate, and by its dictates endeavor to regulate our lives and conduct. Hence, while influenced by this principle hypocrisy and deceit are unknown among us, and sincerity and plaindealing distinguish us." And yet there is not a man in this room who has not heard denials of Klan membership uttered by men, including brother Masons, whom he knew to be Klansmen. Mendacity on this subject has been so common that we have almost grown t o tolerate it, but this condition simply means that the Klan has made a lack of confidence among Masons which has changed us from a traternity to a house of suspicion. Can we expect the public to believe that "hypocrisy and deceit are unknown among u s " when we practice it among ourselves? Do "sincerity and plain-dealing distinguish u s " if the public knows that some of us make statements having one meaning to the ear which receives them, and another and opposite meaning to the tongue which utters them?
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—COLORADO.
353
In the kindliest spirit possible I desire to ask you, my brothers, and especially those of you who still belong to the Ku Klux Klan, if you can conscientiously Say to yourselves that the practices of that organization are really consistent with the tenets of Freemasonry which I shall now quote to you: When we install the Deacons of a Masonic Lodge we tell them: " I n yo\ir reception of candidates be particularly careful to impress upon them the dignity of our Institution and the high standard of its teachings." The Senior Deacon, if he is a man worthy of Us post, carries this thought with him when he interrogates the candidate who has not yet knocked for t h e first time upon the door of a Lodge: " D o you seriously declare, upon your, honor," he inquires, " t h a t you are prompted to solicit the privileges of M a sonry by a favorable opinion conceived of the institution, a desire for knowledge,, and a sincere wish of being serviceable to you fellow-creatures? " Unless the candidate can answer that question with a positive " I d o , " his Masonic career is ended before it has begun. If he is, as the Investigating committee has reported him to be, a man of sufHcient education and Intelligence, to understand and value the teachings of Masonry, he realizes in that moment, that he has seriously declared his wish not be to serviceable to a limited group of iiis fellow creatui-es and iiiimlcal to others, but serviceab'o to all. Tho question as asked is not limited to a set or clique or society or even to the Lodge, of which he is about to become a member or the great Fraternity of which It is a part. .The question and its answer apply to all mankind, and that appli-. cation is abundantly emphasized by the lectures which follow. Very soon after being first brought to light and before the completion of his initiation we require his close attention while we inform liim that " a Lodge is said symbolically to extend in length from East to West, in breadth from North to South, in height from the earth to the highest Heaven, in depth from the "surface to the center'." And we tell him that " a Lodge is said to be of these vast dimensions to denote the universality of Masonry, and to teach us that- a' Mason's charity should be equally as extensive." Siu-ely, unless the.ancient charges and lectures of Masonry are mere empty verbiage, such language is not consistent with a theory which would limit a Mason's charity to those of his own race, religion and social group, and which wovild encourage him in a career of active hostility to men of other races or religious beliefs. We drive home, at every stage of our work our ideal of good-will to mankind. We talk eloquently about brotherly love and tell the Entered Apprentice that by its exercise 'Iwe are taught to regard the whole human species as one family, the high and low, the rich and poor; who, being created by one Almighty Parent and inhabitants of the same planet, are to aid, support and protect each other. "On this principle," the lecture continues, "Masonry unites men of every country, sect and opinion, and conciliates true friendship among those who might otherwise have remained at a perpetual distance." This particular part of our Entered Apprentice lecture is an abridgment of one of the ancient charges, approved by the Grand Lodge of England, March 25, 1722. How long they were actually used before that time we do not know. The ancient c h a r g e " Concerning GOD and Beligion" from which the foregoing is adapted, has been, by my first official order, read to every Entered Apprentice during the past Masonic year. I t is, in part, as follows: " Though in ancient times"—-that is, in times which were ancient in 1722— "Masons were charged in every country to be of the religion of that country or nation, whatever it was, it is now"—that is, two hundred and three years ago— "thought more expedient only to oblige them to that religion in which all men agree, leaving their particular opinions to themselves, that is, to be good men and true, or men of honor and honesty, by whatever persuasions or denominations they may be distinguished, whereby Masonry becomes the center of the union and the means of conciliating true friendsliip among persons that must have remained at a perpetual distance."
354
CORRESPONDENCE—COLORADO.
February,
We tell the Entered Apprentice that "Justice is that standard or boundary of right which enables us to render to every man his just due without distinction." What does "without distinction" mean? Certainly in the United States of America it must at least mean that there shall be no different recognition of the rights of the Catholic, the Jew and the Protestant, any more than there shall be a different recognition of the rights of the rich and poor. There can be no such thing as justice to this group with denial of justice to that group. This would be a contradiction in terms. Justice must be general, it must be free, it must be equal—or it isn't justice. And so we tell the initiate that this virtue "is not only consistent with divine and human laws, but is the very cement and support of civil society; and as justice in a great measure constitutes the really good man, so it should be the Invariable practice of every Mason never to deviate from the minutest:principles thereof." And we conclude the lecture of the First Degree by saying, " There are three great duties which, as a Mason you are charged to inculcate— to GOD, your neighbor and yourself * * *; to your neighbor in acting upon the square and doing unto him as you wish he should do unto you." Well, Brothers, that is pretty old advice, and it comes from Authority which Masons were wont, in the past, to regard as the highest. I t is the Golden Rule. Who Is meant by "neighbor" in our statement of this underlying principle of human conduct? . Does it mean only our fellow-member of the Masonic Lodge? Masons did not think so, formerly. Does it mean only a fellowKlansman? Ah, Brother, if that is your conception of the Golden Rule you have changed the gold to brass. Our "neighbor" is our fellow-man.
It will be noted that in this he brings out forcefully the duties of the Mason and this does not only apply to this particular organization but likewise to any others, as Symbolic Masonry consists of the degrees of Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft and Master Mason, as established by the fathers, stands alone and has no connection or affiliation with so-called coordinate or kindred bodies. The Committee on Jurisprudence in dealing with this subject, offered the following, which was adopted: This Grand Lodge cautions Masons in this jurisdiction against any organization which tends to disrupt the harmony of the Craft. If t h i s r e c o m m e n d a t i o n m e a n s a n y t h i n g we fear t h e G r a n d Master of Colorado will " h a v e his h a n d s f u l l " in forbidding b r e t h r e n from becoming m e m b e r s of some of t h e n u m e r o u s organizations now pred i c a t i n g t h e i r membership on Ancient Craft M a s o n r y . T h e writer h a s on. his desk a list of a b o u t thirty-five s u c h societies. F r o m t h e oration delivered b y R.'. W.'. B r o t h e r R E U B E N W . H E K SHEYwe are pleased t o quote t h e following: Freemasonry has been built upon a safe and sane foundation: one which has stood for ages and wlU stand for more ages to come, just as long as the material used in its construction is of enduring quality and the principles upon which it rests are those that build up and do not tear down. Masonry always has and always will stand alone, without the help of any other material aid than that of good men and true, who believe in GOD, who hold that all men are created with equal opportunity, who believe that every person is entitled to live, think, and act as he may himself determine so long as he obeys the laws of his-Creator and of his country. If the average Mason would stop to ponder for a moment, he would realize that Masonry and its teachings are amply sufficient for the government of
1926-27.
CoBBESPONDENCE—CONNECTICUT.
355
himself toward all things spiritual and material. The majority of us, unfortunately, are always looking for something new, something novel, something different. Why not stick to the old?—it is inexhaustible in its resources for mind and heart, if we will but seek its treasures. T h e R e p o r t o n Correspondence w a s again s u b m i t t e d b y B r o t h e r STANLEY C . W A R N E R , a n d from his preface we quote t h e following: The loyalty spellbinders seem to have had their day and deem i t no longer necessary to give vocal expression to that fealty to our Government which has always been one of the landmarks of our Order. Some lip loyalty may have been necessary during the disturbed conditions, but surely Masonry has not further need t o assert from its housetops its allegiance to a government which its members a century and a half ago were so instrumental in creating. Some of t h e m e m b e r s of t h e R o u n d Table accuse B r o t h e r W A R N E R of writing a large p o r t i o n of his r e p o r t with t h e scissors. T o s u c h t h e writer can only say t h a t h e certainly does a mighty good job of clipping as his r e p o r t s a r e v e r y interesting a n d his selections a r e of t h e m o s t i m p o r t a n t t r a n s a c t i o n s of t h e G r a n d Lodges. T o k n o w B r o t h e r W A R N E R personally is t o love h i m a s a good Mason, a jolly c o m p a n i o n and. one whose h e a r t is in his work in t h e several branches of M a s o n r y . FRANK G . M I B I C K , M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Pueblo. W I L L I A M W . C O O P E R , R.-. W.-. G r a n d Secretary, Denver. STANLEY C . W A R N E R , Correspondent,
Denver.
N e x t A n n u a l , S e p t e m b e r 2 1 , 1926.
CONNECTICUT—1926. Lodges, 120; m e m b e r s , 44,181; n e t gain, 1,275. H a r t f o r d , F e b r u a r y 3, 1926.
W A L T E R T . ARNOLD, M.-.W.-.Grand
Master. Brother
HOWARD
A.
MIDDLETON
was
present
as
our
Grand
Representative. T h e y were h o n o r e d with t h e presence of several distinguished b r e t h r e n from t h e G r a n d Jurisdiction of N e w Jersey, n o t a b l y t h e G r a n d Secretary, R.-.W.-. B r o t h e r ISAAC C H E R R Y . T h e G r a n d M a s t e r in presenting his a n n u a l address e x t e n d s a welcome t o t h e b r e t h r e n a n d concludes his preface with t h e following words: The swiftly moving progress of- time brings a longing and fruitless desire for the friendships and emotions of the past, and we cast our dimmed eyes in , vain for the faces of those so dear who were with us such a short time ago. We most humbly bow to thewill of the Great Architect of the Universe, yet on such occasions as this we yearn for the voice that is still. U n d e r " N e c r o l o g y " he refers t o t h e d e a t h of their P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r , B r o t h e r J O H N H E N R Y S W A R T W O U T , w h o died a t t h e i r M a s o n i c
Home.
356
CORRESPONDENCE—CONNECTICUT.
February,
We note the Grand Master has a " w a r m side" for the ladies of the Eastern-Star as indicated in the following words: • ' The Order of the Eastern Star makes no d a l m upon afttliatiou with the •Masonic Fraternity, yet they have graciously and generously co-operated with us in.our work at the Masonic Home at Wallingford and have frequently and materially assisted the lodges in constructive work. The principles of their order Inculcate Fidelity, Constancy, Loyalty, Faith and Love. They are governed by a code of by-laws framed, by themselves. Among the members are those dearest to us and are constantly engaged in the kindest acts for the benefit and Improvement of humanity. To such an organization we should lend our support and protection. , • Upon the completion of the new Masonic Home, less than seven years ago, the Order of the Eastern Star voluntarily assumed,the.task and. expense of equipping t h e hospital part of that building. They equipped and furnished It with every modern utility and although for the accommodation of only a few they contributed more than ten thousand dollars for the purpose, and since the' original Installation the Grand Chapter has maintained the entire equipment. From time to time abundance of bedding, linen, clothing, furniture and supplies are sent to the hospital by the chapters, all having taken an active part- in t h e work. Our storage shelves are kept filled with choice home made jellies and preserves. This kind of support and assistance hasno unit of measure. From the report of the Grand Secretary, Brother KiES, we quote the following, which to a very large extent applies in our own .jurisdiction: ' I would again remind the brethren that itbey are not living up'to their privileges as t o use of the Library. With exception of one or two individual brethren and just one of the Lodges, it has been unused except by the Grand Secretary. The next topic is interesting because it applies in our own jurisdiction: [ '. , ' , ' Up to time of writing this report, I failed to receive a transcript of notes of the stenographer employed at last Annual. But, following my usual custom, I took my own minutes and completed the printer's copy for the proceedings six days after close of Grand Lodge. Mailing of the completed books began about June 20. The question of securing a competent stenographer, who of necessity must be a male more than twenty-one years of age and a Mason, is a serious proposition and particularly in view of the fact that a majority of the chairmen of committees do nothing with their reports until the eleventh hour and then call for the services of a gilt edge stenographer to take their dictation, run off the report and have it in the hands of this particular brother in time to be presented to Grand Lodge. The usual Report on Correspondence was presented by their Grand Secretary, Brother GEORGE A. K I E S , and we are honored with three pages of his excellent report. Referring to the writer's urgent request for lodges to prepare historical sketches, Brother KiES is pessimistic as to the outcome. If Brother KiES were at our Grand Lodge Building for a few minutes we would convince him that our
1926-27.
CoBBESPONDENCE—COSTA RICA.
357
labors are not in vain and we would show him some of the most interesting sketches and other data, including pictures and the like, which one could hope to receive. He indicates a very optimistic view concerning the Kansas-New Hampshire matter, trusting that fraternal relations will soon be re- . stored. We appreciate his interest; however, our good brethren of New Hampshire prefer to do business without including Kansas on their visiting list. ARTHUR N . NASH, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Pawcatuck. GEORGE A. K I E S , R.*.W.". Grand Secretary and Correspondent,
Hartford. Next Annual. Hartford, February 2, 1927.
COSTA RICA—1924-1925. Lodges, 5; members, 285; net'gain, 10. These Proceedings cover the several Communications of their Grand Lodge held during the years 1924 and 1925. The Communications of 1924 were those of February 29th, being their first Quarterly, followed by a second Quarterly on May 30th and a third on August 29, 1924. Nothing of general importance was transacted at any of these Communications, but a brief report was submitted setting forth the more important correspondence which was largely of a local character. The Annual Communication was held October 28, 1924, and we regret to note that our Grand Representative was not present. At this Communication the elective Grand Officers were chosen by ballot, but nothing further was done. However, on December 26th they held a second session of their Annual Communication, at which the Grand Master announced the appointive officers and the chairmen of the several committees. All Grand Officers were then installed. The first Communication in 1925 was that of a Special held on June 14th. Several other Communications were held, but nothing of a general character was considered, hence we have nothing to report. At the Annual Communication held on November 27th the elective Grand Officers were chosen and we note that Brother GEORGE F . BowDEN was re-elected Grand Secretary, yet at the next Communication, held,,on December 28th, he appears as their Grand Treasurer. We assume, however, this was a mistake of the printer and we therefore continue to carry his name as Grand Secretary. -
SERGIO CARBALLO ROMERO, M . - . W - ' - Grand Master. GEORGE F . BOWDEN, R.-.W-'- Grand Secretary, San Jose..
358
COBBBSPONDENCE—CUBA.
February,
CUBA—1923-1925. Lodges, 171; members, 13,272; net gain, 997. This volume of the Proceedings begins with a Quarterly Communication held on July 22, 1923, and concludes with their Annual Communication held March 22, 1925. ' In addition to the above a number of other Communications were held, listed as follows: Quarterly, November 25, 1923; Special, March 2nd and April 6, 1924; Annual of 1924; Quarterly, August 3, 1924; Quarterly, November 23, 1924; Annual, March 22, ,1925. We will omit any reference to the 1924 Communications and therefore make mention of the 1925 Communication alone. AH- Grand Officers were present, with Brother LISARDO MUNOZ SANUDO, Grand Master. They were honored with the presence of several Past Grand Masters and District Deputy Grand Masters. The election of officers was held at this Communication apd as a matter of interest to our own readers will say that their election is quite different from that held in the Grand Lodges of this country. They publish the names and number of votes cast for each officer, and after the votes have been cast for all, the Grand Master then makes his proclamation, announcing the names of those who received the largest number of votes for any one office. Immediately thereafter, these officers are installed in the regular manner. The Grand Secretary submits an interesting report, listing the various Communications held during the year, and concludes with a financial table, showing the receipts for the year. Brother F . DE P. RODRIGUEZ presents a brief review of several Proceedings. He also submits an informal report dealing with the National Masonic Research and other similar organizations in this country. He also submits with it an interesting account of Masonic conditions not only in this country, but in England, beginning with a reference to the 1723 Anderson Constitutions. His report in this respect should be printed in English as well as Spanish as but few of us are able to read their language. Then follows a report of the District Deputy Grand Masters and the other Grand Officers. His review of Proceedings includes a reference to our 1922 journal. We are at a loss to understand why the Proceedings up to and including 1925 should not have been included in this report. He comphments the writer by making friendly reference to his reivew of other Proceedings. CARLOS M . PINEIRO, M.-.W.-. Grand Master, Havana. AuRELio MIRANDA ALVAREZ, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Havana.
Next Annual, Havana, March 28, 1926.
1920-27.
CoBRESPONDENCB—DELAWARE.
359
DELAWARE —1925. Lodges, 22; members, 5,912; net gain, 52. Wilmington, October 7,1925.
CHARLES D . BIRD, M.-.W.V Grand
Master. Brother A. VICTOR HUGHES responded for Kansas at this Com-
munication. They were honored with a number of visitors from lodges in other jurisdictions. Among the honored guests wenotice the name of R.'. W.'. SAMUEL M . GOODYEAR, Grand Master of Pennsylvania and likewise
his Grand Treasurer and Grand Marshal; Virginia was represented by M.-.W.-. Brother
CHARLES _C. CALLAHAN and New Jersey
by
M.-.W.-. Brother RALPH E . LUM, Grand Master, and M.-.W.-. Brother FRANK C . SAYRS, a Past Grand Master. ' i n e Drecnreii iistenyu uu^a^snuru—uui/ »juoix»oi3k3~j G r a n d M a s t e r , from which we q u o t e t h e following: The business meeting of the Grand Lodge is the source from which the progress and success of our order emanate, for here we adopt new methods of procedure, authorize the expenditure of our funds, and in fact dictate the whole policy of our various enterprises. You have been selected by yourLodges to represent them a t this important meeting and I would caution each, one to weigh carefully all matters that are presented here for your decision.. The power you possess is even greater than that of the Grand Master, for you; enact the laws from which he Is bound, by sacred promises, not to deviate. There will be presented during the Session propositions which will, n o doubt, receive sound argument for and against, and in passing judgment, I ask that you vote for the welfare and success of our order as you see it. You ' will be delighted to learn that at no time in the history of our Grand Lodge have we "oeen so favorably blessed.
While his address is brief, yet we note that he visited all of their lodges. Their Code was amended to the extent of requiring that every Master and Warden should have, at some time during the previous twelve months, read the Constitution, Code and Standing Regulations of their Grand Lodge. Referring to the Masonic Service Association the committee to whom the subject was referred concluded its labors in the following words: Masonic education is needed. The educational matter disseminated by the Association is highly instructive and valuable. B u t it is of little value unless it can be effectively used. Do the Masons of Delaware want it? If so, then this Grand Lodge must take actions which will bring results.
The Report on Correspondence was submitted by Brother THOMAS
J. DAY and we find a brief but well selected report of our 1925 Proceedings. JAMES P. PIERCE, M.-.W.-. Grand Master, Milford. JOHN F . ROBINSON, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Wilmington. THOMAS J. DAY, Correspondent, Wilmington.
Next Annual, Wilmington, October 6, 1926.
360
CORRESPONDENCE—DISTRICT
OF COLUMBIA.
February,
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA —1925. Lodges, 34; members, 22,700; net gain, 587. Washington, December 16, 1925. R O E FULKERSON, M.-.W.". Grand Master. An official welcome was extended to a rather mixed company of distinguished brethren, all of whom we take for granted, are officially recognized by the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia. We refer to the Grand Commander of the Grand Commandery, Grand Patron of the Eastern Star, Grand Commander of the Scottish Rite and several Past Grand Masters of other jurisdictions. We notice the absence of the representatives of a number of organizations or societies started during the past few years and who predicate their membership on Freemasonry. We presume no formal invitations were sent out or they would have had a better representation along these lines. The Grand Master begins his address with the following words: I come before you tonight, without pride or humility, to tell you the story of the year, its aims, and what measure of success we have won in striving to attain our ambitions; to make recommendations and to offer suggestions. I t seems unnecessary to discuss the eternal verities of Masonry. Masonic principles are as eternal as t h e everiasting hills. They are today as they have ever been. Bather is it my purpose in this report to tell how those principles have been applied during the period just coming to a close. A Masonic year tells a story of idealism crystalized into action, or, allowed to lie dormant, still but a theory. Whatever tale this year tells you can best judge at the end of this purposely brief report. Under the heading of " P r e p a r a t i o n " we feel justified in quoting the entire subject, knowing full well that it will be appreciated by our readers: You are preparing to become a Freemason. How are you preparing? You have the ambition to put upon your breast =a tiny pin, representing the Square and Compasses; an ambition to be known ' -as a Master Mason; an ambition to join the great Fraternity of which, per•haps, your father was a member; an ambition to be one of that large brother?h6od of which you may have heard so much and of which you know so little. So you asked a friend, whom you knew to be a Freema.son, how to proceed. 'He gave you a petition to fill out and sign. You were asked to declare your 'belief in GOD, and probably your friend explained to you that " G O D " here imeans the Supreme Architect of the Universe, call Him by what name you will. 'He may be to you GOD, or JEHOVAH, or ADONAI, or BUDDHA, or ALLAH
*
*
*
it makes no difference to Freemasons by what name you call Him, so there is "Within you the humble acknowledgment that you are a creature of His, and t h a t He reigns over the heavens and the earth. I t is all very simple. The other questions are of a practical and mundane character, and give you no hint of what a degree may be, in what sort of a ceremony of Initiation you will participate, what kind of a fraternity Freemasonry is. And so there was no hint given you in the paper you signed as to what sort of preparation you should make to become a Freemason. Freemasonry Jealously guards her reputation, which is of humility and self-effacement as well as of secrecy and good works.
1926-27.
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OF COLUMBIA.
361
Freemasonry does not advertise herself. While her contacts with the world are numerous and commonplace, she works so silently, so quietly, that the world knows little of her labors. You seldom hear Freemasonry discussed in public, and references to Freemasonry In the literature of all countries are so cunningly concealed, that you, and all others not members of the Craft, have almost nothing to guide you as to what you should do to and for yourself before you take your Entered Apprentice Degree. But if you seek, you shall find, in Freemasonry as well as elsewhere. If the friend to whom you went for your petition is a well-informed.Freemason—and not all good Freemasons are as well-informed, or as articulate about what they know, as you might like—he will tell you certain things. In case he can not or will not speak, some of those things are set down here. You asked a friend to take your petition into his lodge. His lodge is his Masonic home. Around it cluster all those happy memories, all those beautiful thoughts, all those heart-searching experiences, which go with the word "home". You asked him, therefore, to pay you the compliment of taking you into one of the sacred places of Ms life; in the hope that it will be, and the implied promise that if admitted it shall be, to you one of the sacred places of your life. "yoii asked not a stranger, OUT; a jrienw, lor uiiitt. rtinTiiia iiiou n^pl'j *»ao vxj direct you to express yoiu'self as to your belief in GOD. I t does not take a very clever man to see that with such a beginning—the call of friendship, the sacredness of home, and the belief in GOD—Freemasonry is not a joke, not a foolish fun organization, not a club of "good fellows"; not an organization to join as one would a Board of Trade, for business purposes. I t is obvious to any one who thinks, that Freemasonry must be dignified, beautifiU, impressive, that it must have a real meaning, a real part to play in a man's life. Therefore, Brother-to-be, make your preparations to become a Freemason as you would prepare for any other great and ennobling experience of life. When your petition was signed and delivered, the matter was out of your hands. The lodge assigned a committee to ascertain if you are worthy, from their standpoint, to be of the lodge. Your name was voted on, in due time. You were elected. Now you are notified to present yourself at the West Gate for initiation. When you go, go clean in mind, in body and in heart. Take from your mind and cast away forever all thought that there is a "lodge goat" awating you, or that your friends are going to "have fun with you." In the Shrine, the Grotto and the Tall Cedars of Lebanon, yes. These are fun-loving organizations which cast aside solemnity and spend most of their evenings in laughter and play. But in a Master Mason's lodge, never! There is not a word spoken, an action performed, which can hurt your dignity or your feelings; there is no torture, physical or mental, to degrade you or Freemasom-y. There is no "horse-play" or other unhappiness awaiting you. What is done with you has a meaning; the part you play is symbolic, and Intended to make a "deep and lasting impression on your mind" of truths, the full understanding of which makes you a better man. P u t all fear from your mind; remember that it is among friends you go, and that the first question they asked you was of yoiu' belief in a common Father; men do not start thus who begin to play a joke. Go clean in body, as you would go clean to a christening or a baptism. Nor resent this instruction here; there is intended no insinuation that you are not always dean. But go made clean expressly for this ceremony; thougli you have just come from the bath for the evening, go once more and bathe with the thought that you are preparing now for a great step, that the water which laves your body is also, symbolically, cleansing yotu- mind and heart. Put on your freshest linen, and let its spotlessness be symbolic of that spotlessness your thoughts should have. For if you neglect these things you will be sorry,
362
CORRESPONDENCE—DISTRICT
OF COLUMBIA.
February.
afterwards; what Freemasonry does to you is done to you, not your brethren that will be, and Freemasonry will mean more to you as you approach her Altar humbly and purified. Finally. Brother-to-be. go with an humble and a contrite heart. If it is in your power to do so. put from your heart all evil. If you have an enemy, make an effort to forgive him before you enter the portals of the Temple. If you have done a sin, do your best honestly to regret it before you pass through t h e West Gate. If you have wronged any one. make up your mind to right the wrong; you will be the happier man later in the evening if you do. And, just before you leave your home, go alone in a quiet room, and, all unashamed, get upon your knees before that Goo in AVhom you believe, and ask His blessing upon what you are about to do. Pray humbly for the wit to understand what you are to hear. Ask that it may be given to you to be a good Freemason, to be a brother to others who will be brothers to you, a real workman in the quarry, erecting to Him a Temple not made with hands. So shall you become an Entered Ajjprentice with the greatest benefit to your brethren, and real joy to yourself. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r was a s k e d for a ruling as t o w h e t h e r or n o t t h e loss of a portion of t h e t h i r d finger of t h e right h a n d was such a physical defect as t o disqualify t h e applicant for t h e degrees. H e m a d e a t h o r o u g h i n q u i r y , even t o t h e e x t e n t of m a k i n g a personal i n v e s t i g a t i o n of t h e h a n d in question, a n d held t h a t he was not p h y sically disqualified. W e wonder w h e t h e r t h e G r a n d M a s t e r was j u s t a n o r d i n a r y G r a n d M a s t e r or a physician. We a r e pleased t o q u o t e t h e following under t h e subject of " T h e Acacia F r a t e r n i t y " : Not connected with the club movement, but conducted along somewhat similar lines and having like aims, is the Acacia Fraternity, composed of students, faculties and alumni of various colleges and universities. This organization has 3H active chapters and is doing good work in promoting closer ties between our brethren who are students in colleges or universities and in afTording them mutual aid in their social, business and scholastic endeavors. It has been my privilege as Grand Master to see at first hand some of their activities. Their high ideals as members of a great Fraternity, together with, their mental training, combine t o make them an efficient organization, well worthy of our approval and encouragement. Most of them are at the formative period of their lives and the influence of Masonic associations at such a time is potent for good, and lasting in its effect. The writer is one of the oldest alumnus of the Acacia Fraternity; was one of the committee to prepare its early Constitution, By-Laws and Ritual and has been in close touch with its workings since its organization. While its membership is strictly confined to members of the Symbolic Lodge they have never, either directly or indirectly asked for the sponsorship of any Grand Lodge, neither have they asked for official recognition, but their activities have been along the lines laid down by the fathers in the early history of the Craft. The active members are those who are seeking an education in the larger universities and colleges of this country and the rules and regulations governing the Acacia are based on the Landmarks, customs and high ideals of the Fraternity.
1926-27.
COBBESPONDENCE—DISTRICT
OF COLUMBIA.
363
T h e G r a n d M a s t e r concludes h i s ' a d d r e s s w i t h t h e following: I can not say it for myself as KIPLING has said it for all who try—and fail to do all they try So I leave with you. as a valedictory, and to my successor as an encouragement, this: When 1 was a King and a Mason. A Master, proven and skilled. I cleared me ground for a Palace. Such as a King should build. I decreed and dug down to my levels. Presently under the ."iit. I came to the wreck of a place. Such as a King had built. "When I was a King and a Mason. In the open noon of my pride. They sent me word from the darkness. They whispered and called me aside; "iriey ^aiu "x iie eiiu is luruitiucii. They said " T h y use is fulfilled. Thy palace shall stand as that other's. The spoil of a King who shall build." I called my men from my trenches, My quarries, my wharves and my sheers: All I had wrought I abandoned To the faith of the faithless years. Only I cut on the timber— Only I carved on the stone. "After me cometh a Builder; Tell him I too. have known." Their a n n u a l base ball game n e t t e d t h e m $17,156.11, all of which is t o b e t u r n e d over t o t h e Masonic H o m e , t o be used in t h e cons t r u c t i o n of a children's building. T h e Proceedings contain a likeness of their late P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r , M . \ W . ' . B r o t h e r H A R R I S O N D I N G M A N , w h o laid d o w n t h e working tools of life during t h e p a s t year. T h e usual St. J o h n ' s D a y C o m m u n i c a t i o n w a s held December 28, 1925, a t which our G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e w a s n o t present. M.". W.". G E O R G E W . B A I R D p r e p a r e d t h e usual R e p o r t on Correspondence which includes a review of our 1925 Proceedings. -
SYDNEY R . JACOBS, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Washington.
J. C L A U D E K E I F E R , R . ' . W . ' . G r a n d Secretary, W a s h i n g t o n . G E O R G E W . B A I E D , P.-. G.-. M . . , C o r r e s p o n d e n t ,
Washington.
364
CORRESPONDENCE—ECUADOR.
February,
ECUADOR —1921-1822-1923-1924=1923. Lodges, 7; members, 385; net loss, 90. The tansactions are only referred to in a very brief manner, and cover nothing but local conditions in their lodges—-nothing of interest to the Craft at large. It is to be regretted that our Ecuador brethren do not include with their Proceedings the addresses of their Grand Officers. The Proceedings are embellished with a picture of the Grand Lodge Temple, which no doubt is a beautiful building. HERMAN B . PARKER, M . - . W . - . Grand Master. MIGUEL A. JIJON, R . - . W . ' . Grand Secretary, Guayaquil.
UNITED GRAND LODGE OF ENGLAND —1925. Lodges, 4,105; members, 330,000; net gain, 10,000. We take pleasure in quoting the following from the Proceedings of their Quarterly Communication held December 2, 1925: "We, the Members of the Fraternity known as the Antlent. Free and Accepted Masons of England (including the Supreme Order of the Holy Eoyal Arch) by our representatives in Grand Lodge assembled, do venture humbly to express our respectful and profound sympathy with Your Majesty in the sorrow caused by the death of Her late Majesty, QUEEN ALEXANDKA. "While we share the feelings of grief and veneration in the hearts of all Your Majesty's loyal subjects, we, as Freemasons, have special reasons for sorrow a t the passing of the Queen Mother. Her late Majesty for very many years, first as consort of our late Most Worshipful Grand Master, His Royal Highness ALBERT EDWARD, Prince of Wales, afterwards as consort of His Majesty KING EDWARD VII, Protector of our Order, and then until now, had been Chief Patroness of the Boyal Masonic Institution for Girls, displaying an active Interest in the welfare of both that Institution and the Royal Masonic Institution for Boys, which has resulted in the accomplishment of great good. " I n thus expressing our deep regret, we would ask leave to assure Your Majesty of our sustained loyalty to Your Throne and Person; and to add the constant prayer of each Member of our Fraternity, dwelling in every portion of Your Majesty's Empire, that, under the blessing of Almighty GOD, Your Majesty may continue to reign happily for many years over a loyal, prosperous, and contented people." Brethren, for the past twelve days the shadow of grief has brooded over the Nation. There is no home in England, no British home in any part of the world, in which the death of QUEEN ALEXANDRA has not caused a feeling of real sorrow, and of heartfelt sympathy with His Majesty the King. As citizens of England, we have all, in one way or another, already paid our tribute of respect to the memory of the adored Queen who has passed away. We have all beard or read the eloquent and moving words in which leaders of the nation In every sphere of life have expressed the universal admiration of that beautiful and noble life which the late Queen Mother dedicated to the service of her fellow creatures. I shall not presume to repeat that which has been said by the great men who have spoken for us all, but, perhaps, 1 may add a few words to Indicate the thoughts which particularly occur to us, as Freemasons.
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—ENGLAND.
365
We have always thought of QUEEN ALEXANDRA as of one whose heart was distinguished by the characteristic of charity, the virtue which, as Freemasons we most admire.. By charity, we do not mean only the charity that gives, but the greater charity, the charity that thinks no evil, the charity that suffers long and is kind, the charity that bears all things, believes all things, hopes . all things and endures all things. We shall also think of her as one who frotn the beginning renoimced her own pleasure in order to make herself more extensively serviceable to her fellow creatures. In cherishing the memory of the beautiful life which won t h e affection and admiration of the millions who knew the name of QUEEN ALEXANDRA, we shall feel proud, and, above all,' thankful to Almighty GOD that we have been privileged to record that name among the Patronesses of Freemasonry, together with that of the great and good QUEEN VICTORIA. Nothing can be more precious to a Nation than a high ideal of womanhood, and great indeed is the good fortune that GOD has granted to oiu- Country in that three Queens in succession have for ninety years held up such an Ideal t o the people in whose hearts they have reigned and are reigning. Let us reflect with gratitude on all that those who look t o "this sceptred isle; this blesseid plot, this realm, this England," as their home or the home of their fathers," owe'to'tne'exainpie"uT^uc;cii\ TrcVvi^Zii, QTTi^zir ALEXANDRA, and our gracious QUEEN MARY.
Meanwhile, as Freemasons,
whenever lose sight of the allegiance due to the Sovereign of their native land, let us think with respectful and heartfelt sympathy of His Majesty the King. '
Under the subject "Women and Freemasonry" we quote the following: There is another matter, M.'.W.-. Pro Grand Master, on which Brethren should at once know where we stand Attention has been calledjslnce the last meeting of the Board to .the publication in extensively circulated newspapers of an advertisement of a so-called "Order of Ancient Free and Accepted Masonry for Men and Women," about which it is announced that it "works on regular masonic lines, uses orthodox rituals, and preserves the ancient customs and established landmarks of Freemasonry." This unauthorized body has a London habitation and a name; but at the London address given in the advertisement no information can be obtained as to its organization or officership, i n any case, it clearly comes within the category of those unauthorized pseudo-Masonic bodies named to Grand Lodge by the Board at the Quarterly Communication of 2nd March, 1921, in a report then adopted nemine contradU rente by Grand Lodge. I, therefore, will renew the assurance given at that time that the Board will continue to exercl.se its disciplinary powers towards any member of a Lodge working under the English Jurisdiction, who violates his ObUgation by being present at or assisting in assemblies professing totbe Masonic which are attended by women.
As evidence of their strict methods of handling the funds of the lodges we quote the following, which was s.ubmitted and adopted: All monies received for, or on behalf of, a Lodge shall be, without undue delay, handed to the Treasurer, who shall at once deposit the same in an account in the name of the Lodge at a bank to be approved by resolution of the Lodge. The Treasurer shall make such payments as are duly authorized or are sanctioned by the Lodge. All cheques must bear the signature of the Treasurer and, if the Lodge so resolve, of at least one other member of the Lodge. H e shall regularly enter a complete record of all monies passing through his hands In the proper books of account, which shall be the property of the Lodge, and which, together with all Lodge funds and property in his possession, shall be transferred to his successor upon Investiture. He shall prepare a statement of accoimts annually, at a date to be determined by the members showing the
366
CORRESPONDENCE—ENGLAND.
February.
exact financial position of the Lodge, which statement shall be audited by a Committee appointed by the Lodge, after which it shall be submitted to the members for their consideration not later than the second regular meeting after the date to which the accounts are made up. His books shall be produced for inspection in open Lodge, or on other suitable occasion, if required by a resolution of the Lodge.
From the Proceedings of the Quarterly Communication held March 3, 1926, we take pleasure in quoting the proclamation of the Deputy Grand Director of Ceremonies, concerning the election of their Grand Master: Be It known, that the Most High, Most Mighty, and Most Illustrious Prince, ABTHCB WILLIAM PATRICK ALBERT, Duke of Connaught and Stratheam,
Earl of Sussex, Knight of the Most Noble Order of the Garter, Knight of the Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle, Knight of the Most Illustrious Order of St. Patrick, Great Master and First and Principal Knight Grand Cross of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath, Knight Grand Commander of the Most Exalted Order of the Star of India, Knight Grand Cross of the Most Distinguished Order of St. Michael and St. George, Knight Grand Commander of the Most Eminent Order of the Indian Empire, Knight Grand Crossof the Royal Victorian Order, Knight Grand Cross of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, one of His Majesty's Most Honourable Privy Council, Field Marshal In the Army, &c., &c., &c., has been elected Most Worshipful Grand Master of the United Fraternity of Antient, Free and Accepted Masons of England for the ensuing year, whom may the Great Architect of the Universe long preserve.
The following concerning the liquor question in connection with Masonry may be of interest to our readers: It will be especially noticed that the introduction of liquor into a Lodge is dealt with, not only in relation to its effect under the [new IJcensingl Act, but also from a purely Masonic point of view. I t having been brought to the attention of the Board of General Purposes that on more than one occasion, at the Installation of a Master, wine was being Introduced for the purpose of drinking his health, I am directed by the Board t o point out, what cannot be too widely known, that such a practice is contrary to that feeling of Masonic propiiety which holds the Lodge to be a sacred place, and to remind the Brethren that the appropriate occasion for showing such courtesy to the Master, is at the subsequent Installation Banquet. An undertaking having been given to the Government authorities that the introduction of liquor into a Lodge would not be tolerated, it Is earnestly desired by the Board that especial care be taken to prevent any violation of the undertaking. This will apply equally to Lodges meeting on licensed premises, as to those meeting elsewhere; for the Board feels that it would be unfair to require conformity to Masonic propriety in one case, and not in the other.
It will be noted from the above that this applies of course to lodges in session, regardless of the place where they assemble. The following will also prove of interest to our brethren: The Board holds this practice to be contrary in spirit to the injunction laid down by its predecessors in 1902, and subsequently accepted by Grand Lodge; and it, therefore, desires to make clear its meaning that the consumption of any intoxicating liquor by the members of the Board of Installed Masters, while it is still open for the purpose of Installation and all Master Masons are necessarily excluded therefrom, is contrary to the best Interests of Freemasonry. This does not affect In the slightest degree the extent of refreshment for Brethren,
1926-27-.
CORRESPONDENCE—FLORIDA.
367
either during or after the Board of Installed Masters has been closed, every Brother being at liberty to use his own discretion as to what refreshment he takes outside the Lodge-room at any period. What is condemned now, as it "was in 1902. is the practice of intoxicating liquor being introduced into a Lodgeroom, or into any adjoining room, not available for the use of the Brethren ;generally, while the Board of Installed Masters is still open, and, therefore, before the most sacred and solemn ceremony in Freemasonry Is completed. • A t t h e A n n u a l G r a n d Festival of April 28, 1926, formal a n n o u n c e m e n t was m a d e of t h e r e t i r e m e n t of Sir F R E D E R I C K H A L S E Y as D e p u t y Grand M a s t e r . This w a s b r o u g h t a b o u t on account of t h e a d v a n c e d years of this distinguished Craftsman. T o fill this v a c a n c y t h e G r a n d M a s t e r a p p o i n t e d R.". W.'. B r o t h e r Colonel F I E N N E S S T A N L E Y W Y K E -
HAM CORN.WALLIS. A t t h e t i m e of t h e installation, of t h e newly a p pointed D e p u t y G r a n d M a s t e r t h e G r a n d M a s t e r spoke as follows: T r.^,.Hioiiy ornAAf. vmi in thp. hieh. nn.'sition in which I have had the honour of investing you. You have been a loyal and worthy Mason of many years standing, and have been for 21 years Provincial Grand Master for Kent. I feel convinced that you will support me in the same manner as your predecessor has done. In Sir FREDERICK HALSEY we have lost a great and distinguished Mason, and one who for 23 years held the important position of Deputy Grand Master. I am sure that we shall always remember his services to the Craft, and we shall wish him still long life (Applause). I now have great pleasure in placing you in your seat as Deputy Grand Master. (Loud applause.) The Grand proclamation:
Director of Ceremonies t h e n m a d e t h e following
Be it known that Right "Worshipful Brother FIENNES STANLEY WYKEHAM CoRNWALLis, of Llnton Park, in the County of Kent, Commander of the Most E.<celieut Order of the British Empire, in the Commisiion of the Peace and a Deputy Lieutenant for the County of Kent, Colonel retired of the Queen's Own West Kent Imperial Yeomanry, Chairman of the Kent County Council, Provincial Grand Master for the Province of Kent, Past Grand Warden of the United Grand Lodge, has been appointed and installed R .•. W .•. Deputy Grand Master of the United Fraternity of Antient, Free and Accepted Masons of England for the ensuing year.
FLORIDA—1926. Lodges, 2 5 3 ; members, 27,398; n e t gain, 1,527. J a c k s o n v i l l e , April 20, 1926.
LAMAR G . CARTER,
M.-.W.-.Grand
Master. We note t h e absence of o u r G r a n d Representative a t this C o m munication. F r o m t h e preface t o t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s address we t a k e pleasure in quoting t h e following: Let us, for the moment, permit our minds in retrospective mood to go back over the almost completed century of time, since this Grand Lodge was organized, to the year 1830 when the few members composing the three Particular Lodges in the State decided to form a Grand Lodge, and sent their representatives to Tallahassee, where they met in the Hall of ,Iackson Lodge No. 1. and formed the M..W.'. Grand Lodge of Florida, with Governor JOHN
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COBBESPONDENCE—FLORIDA.
February.
P. DUVAL as the first Grand Master. Can you visualize the inconveniences and the time necessary to make a trip from Quinny or Marianna, where the other two Lodges were located, to Tallahassee, over the sand roads and clay hjlls in buggies or. on horseback? The Brethren .who were leaders of the Craft in those days were filled with zeal and determination and to them, we of this day and time owe a debt of gratitude for their untiring and persistent efforts to advance the cause of our beloved fraternity. "They builded better than they knew." Under the head of "Necrology" the Grand Master refers to the passing away of their distinguished Past Grand Masters, M.\W.'. SILAS B. WRIGHT and REGINALD COOPER. Speaking of Brother WRIGHT in connection with his work as the writer of the Report on Correspondence, he had the following to say:' His intimate.knowledge of Masonic Jurisprudence and of the origin and foundation of Masonic Bodies throughout the world, made Brother WRIGHT a Nationally, if not an Internationally, known iigure, and his correspondence reports made for this Grand Lodge have been quoted and favorably commented upon by Masonic writers from every Grand Jurisdiction. \ The Grand Master ruled that it was absolutely necessary that the corner-stone of a building be placed in the north-east corner to be laid with Masonic ceremony. The Committee on Jurisprudence, however, disapproved of his ruling, stating that when occasion required the Grand Master could permit the corner-stone to be laid in another corner' of the structure. Recognition was extended to the York Grand Lodge of Mexico and likewise to the Grand Lodge of Panama. From the oration we are pleased to quote the following: Man is never so close to GOD as when he kneels, spiritually naked, at the altar of Masonry to ask the aid of the Architect of the Universe to help him to build .himself into the great temple, to erect in his heart the emblems of Masonry. If he is humble and sincere he will rise from his knees with the humble gratitude of one to whom GOD has been good, expecting the glory of the light of Masonry soon to shine upon him. We are engaged in building temples In ourselves. We use the letter " G " to denote geometry, but in its greatest significance it symbolizes GOD. Ours is a philosophy of Deity which attempts to reach out to know GOD, and in knowing Him to know eternal life. In this age of materialism the knowledge of the existence of GOD is losing its hold on men. In Russia, for example, a determined effort is being made to crush out all religion, giving in return nothing but the expectation of an endless night. In this age of materialism it behooves the Craft to cherish the great doctrine of GOD and immortality. Brother E L Y P. HUBBELL presented the usual Report on Correspondence and we are grateful for a liberal review of our 1925 Proceedings. GARY B . FISH, M . ' . W . ' . Grand Master, Sarasota. • WiLBER P . WEBSTER, R.-. W . ' . Grand Secretary, Jacksonville. ELY P. HUBBELL, Correspondent, Bradenton. Next Annual, Jacksonville, April 19, 1927.
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—GEORGIA.
369
GEORGIA-1925. Lodges, 680; members, 69,821; n e t loss, 446. M a c o n , O c t o b e r 27, 1925.
JAMES D . HAMRICK,
M.-.W.'.Grand
Master. So far as we are able t o learn from a careful perusal of t h e a d d r e s s of t h e G r a n d M a s t e r we are inclined t o believe t h a t our G r a n d R e p r e sentative, Brother P . T . M C C U T C H E N , was present. T h e Communication w a s opened with a s o m e w h a t lengthy i n vocation b y their Grand Chaplain. I n calling t h e roll of P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r s silence w a s t h e o n l y response when t h e n a m e of M.-.W.'. B r o t h e r J A M E S W . TAYLOK w a s called. Thereupon P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r N . H . BALLARD spoke as. follows: Most Worshipful Grand Master and brethren, for the first time in 65 years Most WorsUpful JAMES W . TAYLOR fails to respond. His has been an experience with this Grand Lodge that has never been paralleled by any member of this Grand Body. He has boon all these years a guide for each of us as we come in. He has been here each year to guide us by his wisdom and his counsel, and cheer us by his inspiration and his influence. In every mountain range there stands out a peak above all others; lessor hills nestle close up against the mountain and look up to the larger peak for inspiration and lean against it for support and so it has been with him. In Masonry, he stands towering like a peak above us all, and we younger ones have leaned against him for support and looked up into his face for inspiration. As he lays on his bed of sickness this morning, his heart is with us, and the heart of this Grand Lodge is with him at Ills home in Luthersville. I move you. Sir, that the Grand Secretary be instructed to send a telegram of sympathy, expressing om' regrets at his inability to be present. . L a t e r on i n t h e Proceedings we find a splendid likeness of D o c t o r T A Y L O R , w h o passed t o his reward on D e c e m b e r 15, 1925, a t t h e a g e of n i n e t y - t h r e e . A remarkable m a n with a wonderful Masonic record. For sixty-five years he never missed a Comrnunication of his G r a n d Lodge a n d for more t h a n fifty years a Convocation of his C h a p t e r . H e served t h e G r a n d Lodge of Georgia as i t s G r a n d M a s t e r i n 1896. F r o m t h e preface t o t h e address of M.-.W.\ B r o t h e r JAMES D . H A M R I C K we a r e pleased t o quote t h e following: Someone has said: "Show me the man who can hold on where others let go; who pushes ahead where .others turn back; who firmly stands up where other.s retreat; who knows no such words as 'can't' or ' give up,' and I will show you a man who wiU win in the end, no matter what barriers oppose, no matter what obstacles confront." Such a man we would have every Mason be, t h e tenacious type who can and will hold on where others are letting go. This thing we call " sticktoitiveness" is greatly needed these days when so many dasb hither and yon, blinded by the false glamor of life in much the same way as the: moth is blinded by the glare of the light. In the vain pursuit of pleasure many are forgetful of the permanent values in life. In a nervous, dissatisfied state o r mind, we are apt to let go that which we have and take up with something new and untried. All men appreciate the fine pioneer spirit which makes for progress, but there is a wonderful difference between the initiative and energy of the pioneer and the fickleness and imcertainty of those wavering ones who a r e continually letting go.
S70
CORRESPONDENCE—GEORGIA.
February,
The courage and faith of the pioneer led to the discovery of new lands, blazed the way across our continents, explored the polos, the depths of the waters, the contents of the earth, and the very sky that spreads above us. It forced our own grand Order into being and has carried it onward and upward through the decades amidst trials and disappointments, struggles and sacrifices, t o its present strong position.
During the year eight of their lodges were burned and of this number b u t three had any insurance. The question might consistently be raised whether Grand Lodges should not compel- all lodges to carry sufficient insurance to protect them in case of loss by fire or water. From his conclusion we are pleased to quote the following: My brethren, you who represent the magnificent body of Georgia Masons, let us this d a y consecrate our lives anew to the service of humanity and GOD. Let us be ready for the trials and struggles that lie out before us. Let us be prepared to meet all emergencies. Let us fill our hearts with love for the Masons of our Grand Jurisdiction. Let us drive away darkness with light. Let us aid the helpless and uplift the fallen. Let us put sunshine into broken hearts. Let us wipe away the tears on the ruddy cheek. Let us cheer the afflicted and saddened ones. Let us make the aged and decrepit Master Mason, his wife, his widow, and our Masonic orphans feel the sunshine of the Great Order, " T h e Brotherhood of man and the Fatherhood of GOD."
We note from the Report of the Historian that but few of their, lodges have sent in their histories. We know just what this means as the writer, who likewise is Grand Secretary, is working along these lines in our own Grand Jurisdiction and while we have attained considerable success, yet there are many indifferent and careless officers who seem t o seek honor more than render service and are not obeying the instructions of the Grand Lodge. The Historian of Georgia is carrying on this work in exactly the same manner as the writer, his requests for data consist of historical information of the early members, photographs and the like. The Report on Correspondence was again v^Titten by Brother RAYMOND DANIEL and we are under obligations for a splendid review
of our 1925 Proceedings. We might add a word, however, concerning his reference to the differences between our Grand Lodge and that of New Hampshire, by saying that the proffered hand was not only refused, but we received a smite on the other cheek. Brother DANIEL kindly refers to our suggestion that the names and addresses of the Grand Officers, Chairmen of the Committee on Correspondence and date and place for holding the next Annual Communication be printed on the outside back cover of the Proceedings. We notice, however, that the suggestion by the undersigned and the reference to the matter by their own Correspondent did not bear fruit. W. S. RICHARDSON (initials not ours), M.-.W.-. Grand Master, Atlanta. FRANK F . BAKER, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, Macon.
We presume that Brother RAYMOND DANIEL was again appointed Chairman of the Committee on Correspondence.
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—IDAHO.
371
IDAHO-1925. Lodges, 78; members, 9,761; net gain, 261. Pocatello,
September
8, 1925.
FRANK
KNOX,
M.-.W.-.
Grand
Master. We fail to find the name of our Grand Representative' at this Communication. The Grand Master in submitting his address has nothing t o offer other than making due acknowledgment of the honor conferred upon him one year previous and extending a welcome t o t h e brethren at this Communication. The address is one of the shortest the writer has thus far reviewed this year as it occupies only twenty pages, ten of which are devoted to decisions, t w o to the Order of DeMolay, t w o to Special Dispensations and one on approval of lodge by-laws. The Grand Secretary submits an interesting report and we are pleased to note that his card index is posted up t o date. From our own knowledge of the value of an index to the membership we appreciate just what it means to our Idaho brethren. An excellent oration was delivered by Brother J. G. ELDRIDGE, from which we quote the following: The astronomer's • measure of distance shows how powerless we are to grasp the infinitely great. Light travels 187,000 miles per second. A simple calculation gives the distance that light travels in a year^some six trillion miles (if that means anything to you), and for convenience this "light-year" is taken as the yardstick in speaking of the inconceivable distances of the fixed stars from the earth and from each other. Yet recent discoveries and actual measurements show that a certain remote section of the Milky Way is no less than 200,000 light years distant from the earth; in other words, a beam of liglit shot forth from that light-cluster at the time of the birth of CHRIST will not arrive ut)on the earth until nearly 2,000 centuries more have elapsed. And the GOD whose Wisdom and Power created and controls the Infinitely Large in His Universe is no less marvelous beyond all comprehension in the realm of the Infinitely Small. If the molecules of water in a tumbler were enlarged merely to the size of grains of sand, we should have material enough to build a highway three miles wide and seven hundred feet deep from New York to San Francisco. Yes, a Mason believes in GOD as the Great Architect of the Universe, but who can be satisfied with that conception? Not merely that Supreme Wisdom and Power which in tlie distant past devised and wound up the clockwork of the universe, but the Father, who here and now, moment by moment, is interested in the cluldren of His love,—He is the GOD of Masonry. No pagan religion, no system of philosophy ever taught such a GOD. But "without such a belief in Him, life is miserable, the world is dark." With this belief, man is ennobled into the likeness of the Divine Image; he feels that he is not a puppet pulled by the strings of a blind, merciless Fate, but that he is formed by the Father for a purpose, and the working out of that purpose is the goal of human life. T w o brethren, members of their lodges, petitioned and were admitted t o membership in a lodge in Alberta without first terminating their membership with the Idaho lodges. This, of course, constitutes
372
COBBESPONDENCE—IDAHO.
February,
dual membership, which the Grand Lodge of Idaho does not practice and tlie Committee on Jurisprudence to whom the subject was referred, directed that charges be preferred against both these brethren for unmasonic conduct in violating the laws of their Grand Jurisdiction. The Report on Correspondencej prepared by Brother JOHN W . SHORE, includes a reference to our 1925 Proceedings and he quotes that portion of Grand Master STRAIN'S address on Masonic Trials. As a matter of information to Brother SHORE the writer will say that our whole system of conducting Masonic trials has been changed and as will be noted in our 1926 Proceedings. W I L L H . GIBSON, M.'. W . ' . Grand Master, Mountain Home. CURTIS F . PIKE, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Boise. JOHN W . SHORE, Correspondent, Silver City.
Next Annual, Boise, September 14, 1926.
IDAHO —1926. Lodges, 88; members, 10,008; net gain, 247. Boise, September 14, 1926.
W I L L H . GIBSON, M.-. W.-. Grand
Master. Brother SHERMAN M . COFFIN, our Grand Representative, was
present. We take the following from the preface to the Grand Master's address: Masonry must continue to inculcate its higli ideals into the minds and hearts of the Craft if it would continue to be a factor in the solution of the every-day problems of life. To bring men to a full realization of their obligations t o themselves and toward their fellows as a prime purpose for the existence of the Masonic institution. No institution can solicit nor long retain the active support of thinking men unless it have a forward-looking, constructive, energizing program worthy of the best thought of the age. Such ideals Masonry has always adhered to, and just so long as we hold aloft its banner and maintain its principle and precepts unsullied, just so long ivUl Masonry continue to be a mighty power for good among men. This conception of Masonry I am persuaded to believe has taken a Arm hold upon the Craft throughout our Jiu-isdiction, and I am pleased to assure you that the true spirit of Masonry is generally prevalent, and that the great tenets and teachings of our Ijeloved fraternity were never more appreciated by the rank and file of our membership than they are today.
Under the head of "Education" the Grand Master states that they arranged a definite program of activities at the various district meetings. The matters brought to the attention of the brethren on these occasions are listed as Masonic education; the securing from every lodge representation at this Grand Lodge session; the completion of the subscription due the Washington Memorial Fund; and the consideration of the tuberculosis proposition. The Grand Master states the meetings were largely attended and that a number of valuable and
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—ILLINOIS.
373
instructive papers were read. This is quite unlike our practice in Kansas as we allow no subjects to be brought before our district meetings except a formal address prepared each year and a talk by one of our Grand Officers. The main portion of these meetings consists of an exemplification of a portion of the work and lectures under the immediate supervision of one of the Lecturers. In the annual report of their Grand Secretary reference is made to the death of their Past Grand Master, Brother ALBERT W . GORDON. One year ago the Grand Lodge of Idaho extended fraternal recognition to the Grand Lodge of Denmark and in due time a formal notice to this effect was sent that jurisdiction. In reply they received a letter from the Grand Secretary of Denmark stating that their Grand Lodge refused to accept the proffered hand. The writer is pleased to say that so far as Kansas is concerned we are to be congratulated in never extending or offering to extend fraternal relations to any of the many, many European Grand Lodges other than the United Grand Lodges of England, Ireland and Scotland. A resolution was presented and referred to their Committee on Jurisprudence which contemplated extending fraternal recognition to the Mystic Shrine and the Grotto. Strange as it may seem the Committee on Jurisprudence not only accepted the resolution but likewise amended their law formally recognizing the above organizations and granting to all members the privilege of joining the Grotto and the Shrine. The writer has a list of more than thirty-five other organizations predicating their membership on Freemasonry and will be willing to furnish a copy to any of our sister Grand Lodges who care to extend fraternal recognition to any or all of them. The Report on Correspondence was prepared by Brother JOHN W. SHORE and we are under obligations for a very brief review of our 1926 journal. HENRY P. GLINDEMAN, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, Coeur d'Alene. CURTIS F . P I K E , R . - . W . ' . Grand Secretary, Boise. JOHN W . SHORE, Correspondent.
Next Annual, Coeur d'Alene, September, 1927.
ILLINOIS—1926. Lodges, 993; members, 285,965; net gain, 6,369. Chicago, October 12, 1926. RICHARD C . DAVENPORT, M.-.W.'i Grand Master. The Grand Lodge of Kansas was ably represented at this Communication by Past Grand Master M.-.W.-. Brother GEORGE M . MOULTON,, who according to his usual custom, made due report following the close of Grand Lodge.
374
CORRESPONDENCE—ILLINOIS.
February,
Prior t o t h e formal opening of G r a n d L o d g e t h e b r e t h r e n were e n t e r t a i n e d 'oy t h e B o y s ' a n d Girls' B a n d a n d Chorus of their Illinois M a s o n i c H o m e of L a G r a n g e . A t t h e conclusion of t h e e n t e r t a i n m e n t p r a y e r was offered b y t h e G r a n d Chaplain, after which B r o t h e r O W E N SCOTT, G r a n d Secretary, offered t h e following few words t o t h e m e m o r y of their late P a s t Grand Master ARTHUR E . WOOD:
Length of life should not be measured by years but by achievement. By the wealth of benellts he has brouglit to mankind, Euisox, at slightly less than fourscore years, is immeasurably older than METHUSKLAH; reputed to have lived to the age of 969 years. WASHINCTON iind LINCOLN, each lived less than the allotted three-score years and ten, stand in the world's hall of fame crowned as benefactors. In the humbler circles of life men should bo measured by things done in service to mankind. Among these AIITHUK E . WOOD deserves a prominent place. Called a t the age of sixty-two his deeds entitle him to rank as one who had "served his follow men." Ho was modest and unassuming. He did not strive to reach beyond the average good citizen. In the struggle of life he was a winner. We are pleased to quote the following from Grand Master RICHARD C. DAVENPORT'S annual address: It is with pleasure that 1 again report the harmonious condition of the fraternity in Illinois. With one thousand lodges and a membership of 2S.'>,740 there have been comparatively few cases requiring disciplinary measures. The work of the year has been very interesting. Many problems of a serious nature have been presented, and I have endeavored to dispose of them to the best of my ability. U n d e r t h e head of " N e c r o l o g y " he s p o k e as follows: It has pleased the Groat Creator in His inscrutable wisdom to, visit our fraternity in a most solemn and impressive manner. Since the last meeting of the Grand Lodge one year ago. death, that great severer of the fondest and holiest of human ties, has claimed several of our most cherished and efficient brethren. Brother ARTHUR E . WOOD, our Junior Past Grand Master, answered the call February 8, 1920. He needs no eulogy from me. An imperishaljlo monument is built up to his memory witliin the heart of every member of this organization, and upon that tablet are inscribed his worth and his virtues. His great • devotion to the principles of the Craft, his amiable and unchanging courtesy. his pleasing personality, his fidelity and brotherly love, made him one of the great pillars of Masonry and the idol of the fraternity in Illinois. •'Life's labor done Serenely to his final rest he passed. While the soft memories of his virtues yet Linger like sunset hues when Tliat bright orb has'set."
Under the head of "Masonic Home" he refers to the addition to the hospital at the Sullivan Home. The cost for this additional improvement was $100,000.00, of which the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons donated one-half. I t certainly speaks well for Royal Arch Masonry in Illinois.
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—ILLINOIS.
375
As we are now t r y i n g o u t t h e Trial Commission proposition in o u r own jurisdiction t h e following words under t h a t head are t a k e n f r o m the Grand Master's address: Tlie wisdom of conducting trials by commission is being realized more and; more each year. The brethren selected for this duty are chosen because of their .peculiar fitness for the task. Serving on a trial commission frequently entails a great amount of personal sacrifice, and the brethren who imdertake this important duty render a service to the craft that should not be underestimated. It is to these brethren who have so willingly served me in this capacity that I wish now to extend my sincerest thanks. U n d e r " D e c i s i o n s " he ruled as follows concerning ,an elected petitioner moving out of t h e jurisdiction: l A case was presented in which an elected petitioner of an Illinois lodge moved to Texas'betore the first degree could be conferred upon him. Six years later he petitioned for the degrees in a lodge in Texas. The question arose as to whether or not the Illinois lodge still retained personal jurisdiction over the applicant. The first part of Code No. 4:5.5 defmes as perpetual the personal jurisdiction of a lodge over its members and its unfinished work. The latter part of this code describes the limitations of the personal jurisdiction of a lodge over its rejected material. In my opinion an elected petitioner who has received no degrees is unfinished work of the lodge. I advised the Illinois lodga that in electing the petitioner it had thereby acquired perpetual jurisdiction^ This decision is in full accord with our own regulations. One of their lodges presumed to confer t h e first a n d second d e grees on a candidate who h a d lost his right leg below t h e knee. TheG r a n d Master, upon proper investigation, found t h e lodge was guilty of a flagrant violation of their laws and immediately deposed t h e Masterand suspended him from all t h e rights and privileges of M a s o n r y . One of their newly m a d e Masons was so t h o r o u g h l y i m b u e d with t h e high ideals of t h e f r a t e r n i t y t h a t he prepared a n d published a n article entitled " T h e Confession" which was a t r a v e s t y on a certain' portion of t h e ritual. W h e n t h e m a t t e r reached t h e ears of t h e G r a n d Master he a p p o i n t e d their Junior G r a n d W a r d e n t o m a k e an i n vestigation, which resulted in t h e young m a n a d m i t t i n g his guilt, b u t pleaded t h a t he be n o t given t h e extreme penalty. T h e G r a n d Master,, however, as an evidence of his m a r k of disapproval, suspended t h e brother from all t h e rights and privileges of Masonry. T h e following few words from t h e subject of " F i n a n c i n g M a s o n i c T e m p l e s " is quite apropos to present conditions in our own j u r i s diction a n d we therefore feel justified in quoting it: It is a splendid thing for a lodge to own its home, if It is able to do so. This, however, can only be accomplished by cooperation and a carefully thought out plan of financing in keeping with its ability to pay. Most of the temples are being financed in the dignified and business-like manner which is necessary to. insure success. In a few cases, however, I have been appealed to for advice by brethren who stated that the lodge had undertaken the erection of a temple practically without giving any serious thought to the future of the lodge or t o how its obligations could be met. One lodge is at present in grave danger of losing its temple because it overestimated its ability to finance the undertaking. Others are experiencing extreme difflculty in meeting their payments.
376
CORRESPONDENCE—ILLINOIS.
February.
This condition naturally leads to dissatisfaction in the lodge. A lack of interest is manifested, and the burden falls on a few. In order to meet payments undignified entertainments and schemes which tend to impair the good name •of Masonry are proposed. In one instance a temple association was renting Its hall to another organization for the purpose of giving Sunday dances. This practice was immediately discontinued when brought to the attention of the <Srand Master. Lodges should realize that the Grand Lodge will not tolerate this method of raising funds for any purpose. While I doubt the advisability of the Grand Lodge attemiJting to regulate the amount of money that a lodge should invest In building, yet I would urge that lodges be careful not to let their enthusiasm lead them into an undertaking whicii will be an embarrassing situation for many years. Under the head of " Class Presents " the Grand Master offered the following: The custom of classes giving presents to their Master has become so distasteful that in my opinion something should be done to stamp out this periiicious practice. I can see no good in the custom, and much harm. The honor bestowed on ••a brother by his election to the office of Master and the personal gratification which is his in being of service to the lodge should be sufficient reward for his 'labors. But the custom of presenting gifts has created a spirit of competition among the Masters of lodges. Each strives to raise just as many candidates as possible during the year. The object, of course, is that his present from the class many be a little more handsome than his neighbor's or his predecessor's. The practice also causes many brethren who would make excellent Masters to -liesitate to accept preferment. In my opinion this custom is in reality a cleverly designed plan of evading t h e spirit of Code No. 316. While the offenders would not admit that It is in • any way an assessment, yet there is sufficient proof in tlie well known fact that one who fails to contribute is practically ostracized, often embarrassed, and even :insulted. Not only are brethren raised during the year approached, but even •candidates have been asked to contribute. JHe concluded his address with the following few lines, being a tribute to his friends: ""Life is sweet because of the friends we make, And the things which In common we share. We want to live on, not because of ourselves. But because of the people who care. It is giving and doing for somebody else: On this all life's splendor depends. And the joy of this world when we've summed it all up Is fotmd in the making of friends." The brethren were called upon to listen to an oration which to t h e notion of the writer of this report would have been a splendid address before an assemblage of college or high school students, as it deals absolutely with the subject of duties to our country and loyalty to t h e constituted authoi'ities and a strict adherence to the underlying principles of our government. It does not in any manner partake of a Masonic character. The writer assumes that an address of this kind is not necessary before a Grand Lodge of Masons as we are safe in presuming that all
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—ILLINOIS.
377
good Masons are likewise good citizens, as we are t a u g h t in our ceremonies. We t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following from t h e r e p o r t of t h e C o m m i t t e e on Obituaries: "Life," how strong and serious the word, and yet our life is Ijut a transient moment, a whisper on the road of time, an existence but for a moment wlien compared with nature and time immutalile. It is but a short, short journey, for the average life in itself comprehends but 3500 weeks of existence. I t is a journey in the path of time, but such a short, short journey, a journey but for a day, and that journey begins in the glories of the light of the morn of childhood, an impression of the noonday sun of youth and manhood, and a dark somber closing of age, as the night shades fall. Just a comparative moment, and but a passing flash of time from the great unknown beginning to the great unknown ending; a step between two great eternities. We are but transient sojourners and we go from place to place, for tliis earth is not a permanent abode, and we are not under the great plan designed to rest here and so we journey on and on to that abiding place which our faith persuades us is forever fixed, and the journey's end. It is the permanent and abiding place of the soul, eternal in the lieavens. We begin this journey as we begin all journeys, with enthusiasm, with joy and hope, and like all other journeys, when tired and fatigued we stop and rest and refresh ourselves, and then we press on with renewed and added strength to the end and eternal rest; to that rest that those who follow the precepts of our faitli is the rest promised to the people of GOD. T h e y were h o n o r e d with t h e presence of their distinguished citizen, B r o t h e r F R A N K O . L O W D E N , w h o addressed t h e G r a n d L o d g e a n d from his r e m a r k s we a r e pleased t o quote t h e following: Then there was another reason I wanted to visit you, even if it must be a brief visit. You know, sometimes as we grow older, we become a little bit depressed over the trend of things. We see clouds in tlie sky and we wonder if all is well with the world and those who dwell upon it. At such a time, there Is no place on earth where I can derive so much strength, so much inspiration and so much of the new hopefulness for the future of our beloved land, as in a Masonic body looking into the faces of my brethren. My coming here this morning was not to inspire you or strengthen you, but 1 am here getting inspiration for myself. I shall bo just a little bit surer of the future of humanity, of the future of our nation and I shall have just a little bit more courage for facing .my problems because of this precious privilege of looking into your faces this morning, and gathering strength for the morrow. I thank you, my brethren, 1 thank you with all my heart for the warmth of your welcome, and for the brotherly and tlirilling sympathy, if I may use that expression and word, that you have extended to me this morning. M.". W.'. Brother ELMER E . BEACH submitted the usual Report on
Correspondence, including a review of our 1926 Proceedings. DAVID D . KING, M . ' . W.-. Grand Master, Chicago. OWEN SCOTT, R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary, Decatur. ELMER E . BEACH, P . . G . " . M . - . , Correspondent, Chicago.
Next Annual, Chicago, October 11, 1927.
378
CORRESPONDENCE—INDIANA.
February,
INDIANA —1926. Lodges, 559; members, 126,215; n e t gain, 2,113. I n d i a n a p o l i s , M a y 2 5 , 1926.
ALBERT W . FUNKHOUSER, M.-. W . ' . .
Grand Master. T h e G r a n d Lodge was opened with music b y R a p e r Choir, which is associated with Raper C o m m a n d e r y N o . 1, K n i g h t s T e m p l a r . . B r o t h e r RUDOLF H . H O R S T , o u r G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e , was in attendance. T h e r e p r e s e n t a t i v e of t h e G r a n d Lodge of P a n a m a spoke in b e half of his jurisdiction a n d as a m a t t e r of information for oui readers we q u o t e t h e following: The failure of Illinois to recognize them is due largely to a report made about eight years ago. The basis of the refusal was due to the fact that the Grand Lodge of Panama can not show a direct pedigree from the Grand Lodge of England, But neither can the Grand Lodge of Scotland, nor the Grand Lodge of Ireland, show any such pedigree, and, as I am informed, the Grand Lodge of Illinois itself is wanting in its ability to do so. The Grand Lodge of Illinois has its roots in Scotland as well as in England. The second consideration is on account of the .Scottish Rite pedigree. This, of course, is a matter of opinion, but it should be remembered that all of the Latin Supreme Councils came originally from France at a time when the Grand Orient of France was a legitimate Masonic body, and this in turn derived direct and by charter from the Grand Lodge of England. The Grand Lodge of Panama has cultivated fraternal relations with seventeen Grand Lodges during the past year and now has fraternal relations with seventy Grand Lodges of foreign jurisdictions which include the united Grand Lodge of England and the Grand Lodge of Scotland. There are eight subordinate Lodges constituted under the Jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Panama and one Lodge working under dispensation. One Lodge is composed solely of distinguished citizens of Chinese Colony. Five of the Lodges work in Spanish and three in English. The ritualistic work in the Lodges of Panama is done both in English and Spanish, and the work is very similar to that of Massachusetts. The Masonic Order in the Canal Zone is under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, and there is much intercourse between the Masons of the Canal Zone and the Republic of Panama, and the work becomes more or less alike. T h e G r a n d Master in presenting his a n n u a l address expresses t h e opinion t h a t t h e position of G r a n d M a s t e r is s o m e w h a t of a j o b a n d we q u o t e t h e following w o r d s : The conscientious and efficient discharge of the duties of Grand Master in Indiana is a man-sized job. A year's honest effort has proven to me how easy it is to make mistakes and how hard it is to be always right. I am sure that you will be charitable with my shortcomings, and generous if I have helped somewhat. U n d e r t h e head of " N e c r o l o g y " h e m a d e proper reference t o t h e passing a w a y of M.'. W.'. B r o t h e r
M A S O N J B N K S N I B L A C K a n d we
q u o t e t h e following few w o r d s : The life of Judge NIBLACK has been one continuous endeavor in the interest of Iris country and his fellow citizens. He had a big heart and a strong mind. He was a delightful companion and a loyal friend. The influences of his
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—INDIANA.
379
life are all for good. He lived out of the Lodge room what he had been taught on the inside of it, and transplanted the principles of brotherly love, relief and truth into his daily life, and died one of the best loved citizens of Indiana, and easily the first citizen of liis native city. T h e Grand Secretary reported t o t h e G r a n d Master t h a t several lodges held their elections a t an improper time. T h e only p u n i s h m e n t inflicted b y t h e G r a n d M a s t e r was t o confirm t h e elections. I n K a n s a s we do business in an entirely different way, as we require such lodges t o back up, hold a n o t h e r election and pay a fee of $5.00 for a special dispensation. T h e G r a n d Master h a d t h e following to r e p o r t concerning lotteries: A number of Lodges in the s.aine city arranged to rafale an automobile, and sold "chances" through a committee called ."St. .lohn's League."- My attention was called to the matter, and I directed that the money be refunded for the tickets sold and the whole matter be dropped. This was promptly done. I call attention to the matter so that other Lodges in the future may take notice and refrain from such immoral, undignified and illegal practices. We anticipate t h e offending lodges are among t h a t class k n o w n as "progressives". . • Under t h e subject of " M a s o n r y , Morals a n d t h e L a w , " he h a d t h e following t o s a y : The character and efficiency of Freemasonry is determined by the character and efflcienc.v of the individual Master Mason. Therefore, a petition for our degrees should not be accepted from any man unless he is a moral, upright man, and a loyal, law-abiding citizen. The only danger we need apprehend will be from within and not from without our Order. The assaults of our traditional enemies we can view with monumental calm,'but we will do well to carefully gxiard our own gates. Duty, honor and gratitude requires each of us to preserve the good name of the Fraternity unsullied. This must be our constant care. "VVe can best serve by example rather than by precept. We are pleased t o q u o t e t h e following tew words from his conclusion: My prayer, my hope, is that through the future ages this Brotherhood niay continue to administer to the every-day human needs, to reach out and touch the human heart, and to smooth the rough, stony places along the dear familiar paths of life where men and women walk and toil and suffer. Their G r a n d Secretary, B r o t h e r W I L L I A M H . SWINTZ, presents another of his complete a n d well prepared reports, from which one can gather almost a n y information desired concerning either m e m b e r ship or finances. We quote t h e following from t h e G r a n d Lecturer's report, knowing full well it will be appreciated b y our own readers and especially in view of t h e policy of our G r a n d Lodge requiring t h a t n o t only t h e ceremony b u t all sections of t h e Lecture shall be given in full a t t h e same Communication a t which t h e b r o t h e r receives his degree:
380
CORRESPONDENCE—INDIANA.
February,
In a very few of the Lodges visited I found that Section 105 of the General Regulations had been ^aolated. I refer to the practice of "short forming"the ceremonies. The principal violation was the omission of the second and third sections of the lectures or the postponement of these lectures to some future date, when the candidate was informed that he might receive these lectures with a "class of candidates." In one of t h e Lodges whore tills practice evidently has prevailed many years, one of the members told me he did not receive the lectures in his Lodge., and did not know that there were any such lectures in Masonry, until he heard them recited in a Lodge in a distant state some fifteen years after he had received his degrees. F r o m t h e report of t h e C o m m i t t e e on Distinguished D e a d i n Other Jurisdictions, w e are sure t h e following portion of their r e p o r t will be of i n t e r e s t to o u r own b r e t h r e n : I t is not in an arbitrary decree of GOD, but in the nature of man that a veil shuts down on the facts of tomorrow. By this veil, which curtains evidence, we are taught, to live in today. Yesterday is dead and gone: tomorrow is yet unborn and to some of us it may never come. Today is here with its duties. The mystery of our being, the necessity for action, the relation of cause to effect, the dependence of one thing upon another, the mutual influence and affinity of all things, assures us that life is for a purpose to which every outward thing doth point. Each of us must perform an important part in life's work. Every man has a mission t o perform: a mission which looks to the perfect man, school, church, state, nation, and world, and to the advancement of which each, in his individual capacity, is to contribute his full share. I t is our duty to return to the world an equivalent for that which we receive. These splendid institutions whicli have come into our hands by our advent into this world, are ours, to add to. to make perfect, and to hand down to future generations, in a more ])erfect form. We must be wise in Time, that we may be happy in Eternity. This life Is like a school, the purpose of wliich is to train, discipline and fit us for the future life. Many men worry too much about what the future has in store for them, about the future life, and fail to take advantage of the opportunities at hand: to thoroughly fit themselves for that life. It is better that we give more attention to how we live, do and act here, and have less concern about the future world. GOD expects man to do his whole duty here, and teaches us that none of us liveth unto himself alone. No man feels himself a man who is not doing b man's business. A man without employment Is not a man! A man is a body and soul in action. Activity is the life of us aU. To do and bear, is the duty, of life. We die, but we leave behind us an influence that survives, and every man who has passed beyond has left behind him influences for good or for evil that will never exhaust themselves. And none of us realize what influences we are creating about us and how many are imitating our lives. Therefore, how Important it is in this life that we become not responsible for the evil conduct of others. The first and paramount aim of religion is not to prepare for another world, but to make the best of this one; or, in other words, to make this world better, wiser and happier. M.-.W.'. Brother ELMER F . GAY prepared the usual Report on
Correspondence, in which we note with interest a very concise and well prepared reference to our 1925 Proceedings. WILLIAM C . GEAKB, M.-.W.". Grand Master, Fort Wayne. WILLIAM H . SWINTZ, R.-. W . ' . Grand Secretary, Indianapolis. ELMER F . GAY, P , ' . G.'. M.-. , Correspondent, Indianapolis.
Next Annual, Indianapolis, May 24, 1927.
1926-27.
COBBESPONDENCE—IOWA.
381
IOWA —1926. Lodges, 558; members, 89,928; n e t gain, 4,221. D e s Moines, J u n e 8, 1926.
THOMAS W . WELLINGTON, M.-. W.-.
G r a n d Master. This volume comes t o u s in its usual well prepared and artistic form. I t is evident t h a t t h e G r a n d Secretary, B r o t h e r C H A R L E S C . H U N T , is following in t h e footsteps of his t w o illustrious predecessors. As a preliminary t o t h e opening of t h e G r a n d Lodge t h e b r e t h r e n were first entertained with moving picture films of t h e P a s t ' G r a n d M a s t e r s of t h e G r a n d Lodge. A n address of welcome w a s extended b y t h e M a y o r of t h e city, t o which an a p p r o p r i a t e response was m a d e b y t h e D e p u t y Grand Master, B r o t h e r E A R L P E T E R S , a n d from his r e m a r k s we quote t h e following: The fact that Masonry is of ancient origin is not the real cause of its greatness. To claim its place in our government because of the long years that it has survived would be as unsound as to say that a man is great because he has lived to an advanced age, or to exalt a person of medium ability because he may have a brilliant line of ancestors. It is because of the high ideals and uplifting principles for which it stands that it has during all the years since its organization been able to withstand the ravages of time. I t has seen many other organizations flourish and prosper for a time, only to gradually lose their influence, and finally cease to exist. Many of these organizations have long since been forgotten, or if remembered, only as something that existed in the long ago. The ideals for which Masonry stands today are not a new departure, but it has advocated these same principles from the time we have any authentic record of its workings. Because of these high principles and objects it not only has survived the centuries, but as it has gone down the corridor of time it has increased in strength and in usefulness until today it is outstanding in its efforts to make not only its own members, but all other citizens of this Republic, better and more useful members of society. Its membership is not taken from aiiy one class of persons, but comprises men from all walks and stations in life, and its usefxilness extends over many lines of activities. Not the least important of these activities is its endeavors to secure a more loyal, a more enthusiastic, and a more patriotic citizenship. T h e addres of M.-.W.". T H O M A S W . W E L L I N G T O N , t h e retiring G r a n d Master, indicates t h a t he was alive t o t h e interests of t h e Craft a n d w a s n o t unmindful of t h e obligations a s s u m e d w h e n a d v a n c e d t o t h e highest office within t h e gift of Ancient Craft Masonry. W e are pleased t o q u o t e t h e following from his preface: We come from every city, town, village and hamlet of this magnificient commonwealth. Why have we come here? Why has the farmer from his fresh turned field, the mechanic from his bench, the merchant from his counter, the Judge from his Temple of Justice, the Divine from his sacred altar—why have these men from all walks of life gathered about our sacred altar of brotherhood? If any hope of selfish benefit or gain brings us hither, disappointment wiU be our lot. We have come here in the interests of an altruistic, unselfish brotherhood. We have come here to be serviceable to our fellowmen.
382
CORRESPONDENCE—IOWA.
February.
We cannot be too often reminded of the purpose of our Order and the plan by which that purpose is accomplished. What is Masonry? What is its paramount purpose? I t requires belief in and dependence upon GOD, but it is not a theology; it teaches the most exalted moral precepts and holds high the standard of character-building, b u t it is not a religion; it encourages the social virtues and teaches the loftiest precepts of that di\ine virtue, charity, but these are but means to an end. May we not say then that Masonry is a uniting of all these virtues into one great purpose, and that purpose is to create a brotherhood of GoD-fearing, upright men who are actuated by a consuming desire to be of service to their fellowmen? The plan by wliich we attain this brotherhood is found in our ritualistic ceremonies, and no Mason has a right to deny those teachings nor to seek to change them. He has promised to conform to all our ancient established usages and customs of the Fraternity. When a Worshipful Master is installed in ofBce he admits that it is not In the power of any man or body of men to make innovations In the body of Masonry. Those who teach destruction and call it progress—who advocate tearing down our sacred landmarks and call it Improvement—should lay no claim to a knowledge of those eternal and unchangeable principles upon which this Fraternity rests. They love to quote a part of that sentence which says, "Masonry Is a progressive science * * *." The completed sentence makes the meaning clear, "and as we advance in knowledge our obligations * * * increase." In the same sense arithmetic Is a progressive science. Masonry has lived through the ages because it has ever recognized the immutability of those fundamentals upon which brotherhood must ever rest. 1 have no desire to give you the impression that the future of our fair state looks dark or hopeless. But we would do well to recognize that for three or foiu* years Iowa has been reaping the inevitable results of the unwise speculation and inflation of war times. The economic situation is not good. This situation, however. It not hopeless. The greatest agricultural commonwealth with its productive soil and enlightened population will again be restored to prosperity. But as members of this Grand Lodge and men who are Interested In its success and prosperity, it is your duty to recognize that the present situation demands the utmost economy in the administration of its affairs. This Grand Lodge should heed the warning against extravagance. I t should avoid entering upon any ambitious project which might call for increased expenditure. On the other hand, I would not have you impair our worthy activities by unwise parsimony.
Under the head of "Visitations" we notice his reference to visiting the Grand Lodge of Kansas. This occasion we assure Brother WELLINGTON, was a most pleasant one in connection with our Annual Com-
munication. Under this same head, after referring to his visits to the Grand Lodges of Missouri and Kansas, he offered the following words: In both of these Grand Lodges I found the spirit of Masonry burning brightly. The landmarks are being preserved, our ancient teachings are not forgotten and the work of brotherhood is reaching a glorious fruition.
We take the following from his subject of "General Grand Lodge" knowing full well it will be appreciated by our own members: I am prompted to discuss this subject somewhat at length by the fact that so few seem to realize the danger which threatens. Everywhere men who understand how undesirable and destructive would be the results of the establishment of a General Grand Lodge are heard to say that there is no likelihood that any such action will be seriously considered. But we must awake and
1926-27.
COBBESPONDENCE—IOWA.
383
realize that the few proponents of this project are spreading propaganda at every opportunity. A number of publications have espoused the cause. Does anyone suppose that there would be no danger that a General Grand Lodge might not wander far afield while waiting for another World War? My brethren, let me say that I am convinced that no greater calamity could befall our Fraternity in the United States than would result from the establishment of a General Grand Lodge. The several Grand Lodges of the United States are now bound together by our ancient laws, customs; and landmarks. The most pleasant relations exist among them. It is realized by the leaders of Masonry that a general organization endowed with any power at all would inevitably lead to discord and strife and contention and dissatisfaction and confusion. In Iowa there are 86,000 Masons. 550 lodges. Do we need some superorganization to lead our footsteps aright, to dictate to us the wording of our ritual, to force upon us laws and customs unfitted to our experiences? Referring t o t h e N a t i o n a l Masonic Tuberculosis S a n a t o r i a Association he h a d t h e following, a m o n g other things,, t o s a y on this s u b ject: We are all agreed that we must not neglect our worthy brothers who are afflicted with this dread disease, and are in need of financial assistance, wheresoever their residence may be. But before we become members of such an organization as this we should well consider the facts, and ascertain whether this is the most advantageous manner of relieving their distress. Not all of these cases are located in New Mexico, nor would we be justified in sending all cases to New Mexico or to any other state. Most of these cases can be better cured in our own state. Our Grand Charity Fund can better provide for the necessities of these cases and provide hospital service in hospitals already established, for such cases as required than can be provided by this or any other association.
As to the Masonic Service Association of the United States our Iowa brethren seem to be out on a limb, as the Advisory Committee, to whom the question as to the advisability of withdrawing was referred, could not fully agree and the matter for the time being went by default. Brother WELLINGTON had the following to say in his conclusion: Let me repeat t h a t the paramount purpose of this Fraternitj^ is brotherhood, and in that word as we use it is wrapped up all those sublime virtues taught by the sages: trust in GOD, faith, hope, charity, fidelity, devotion to right and duty, unselfish service to one's fellowmen. We cannot have true brotherhood unless we follow the precepts which define it. The practice of these virtues also creates good citizenship. Our Fraternity has been builded strong and enduring by those who grasped the genius of brotherhood and have upheld the high ideals of citizenship. We need not be ashamed of the record of American Masons in their love and-devotion to our flag and our Constitution. We believe in peace, but we do not believe in that pacifism which would leave this country defenseless before a rapacious world. As citizens of the most beneficial government ever established among men we will always be ready to defend it against foes from without or foes within. Not one principle of human liberty and security shall be torn from our Constitution. Not one star shall be erased from that azure field.
Ll
384
CORRESPONDENCE—IOWA.
February,
The Committee on Grand Master's Address, referring to the subject of "General Grand Lodge" had the following to say: We are in hearty accord with his opinions as e.xpressed in relation to the subject of a General Grand Lodge. Jt would seem that this Jurisdiction, with its 86,000 Master Masons and with a background of over three-quarters of a. century of sound development and brilliant achievement, ought to be entirely able to conduct efficiently its own affairs independently of other supervision from any source.
We notice our Iowa brethren are attempting to improve on their system of transfer of membership through the certiiicate of good standing channel. In Kansas we know just what this means as our jurisdiction was the first one to attempt any such procedure. We now have it on a working basis, although the labor involved and the expense attached thereto, so far as any merits of the proposition are concerned, is throwing away good money. Summing up this method of transfer of membership it means nothing more or less than protecting, in most instances, the undesirables who happen to get into the fold. Much more could be said on this subject but in view of the amount of space we have already taken in' our Iowa review, and that which will follow, we must refrain from further comment. We take pleasure in quoting the following as this same question comes up sometimes in our own jurisdiction: A lodge gave assistance to one of Its members residing In a noighhcrlng state, but did not authorize payment of the mortuary expenses. Funeral arrangements were made by the widow who received some life insurance. When the widow failed to pay the account the lodge was i-cquested to pay it. Held, that the lodge was not liable. This decision is also along well recognized lines and is approved. However, the border line between liability and non-liability Is often dim. Carelessness in expression may give countenance to the claim. Whenever accommodations are asked by a lodge In behalf of one of Its brothers, care should be used to make It clear just how far the lodge will obligate and the highest ideas of Masonic honor should characterize the relation.
The Report on Fraternal Correspondence was again prepared by Past Grand Master Brother Louis BLOCK and his "Foreword" under the head of " T w o Masonic Essentials" appeals so strongly to the writer that he has taken the liberty of quoting it almost in its entirety. To those lodges reading the Report on Correspondence from time to time at their Stated Communications and for the benefit of the brethren we are sure this excellent and well prepared article will be of great interest: From time Immeorlal we have been taught that Masonry consists of a course of ancient hleroglj'phlcal, and moral instruction taught according to ancient usages by types, emblems and allegorical figures. Our English forefathers defined it as " a beautiful system of morality veiled In allegory, and illustrated by symbols." The great MACKEY wrote of it as " a system of morality, by the practice of which its members may advance their spiritual interest." He also declared it to be " a slcence which Is engaged in the search after Divine Truth, and which employs sgmbolism as its method of instruction."
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—IOWA.
385
Our own Iowa Monitor tells us that "Freemasonry" is a thing in which " t h e attentive ear receives the sound from the instructive tongue" and one in which "Tools and implements of architecture have been selected by the Fraternity to imprint on the memory wise and serious truths." The justly famous SIMON'S Monitor inserts in this paragraph after the word "architecture" the phrase "symbolic emblems most expressive" Both Monitors agree that this is done in order that there may be "transmitted unimpaired," through a succession of ages, "the excellent tenets of our institution." All of which would seem quite clearly to indicate that Masonry is at bottom an institution for teaching—for instruction. A certain great Masonic scholar, student, thinker, philosopher and leader, recognized as such the round world over, one Brother ALBERT PIKE, after years spent in exhaustive research and profound reflection, enlarging and elaborating upon these other definitions, solemnly declared Masonry to be " a continuous advance by means of the instruction contained in a series of degrees, toward the light, by the elevation of the celestial, the spiritual, and the divine over the earthly, sensual, material and human in the nature of man." "We believe that each and every Mason, who has in all sincerity of purpose faithfully tried both to think out, and to live out, his Masonry will perforce concede that PIKE at least was far from wrong, if not wholly right. If PIKE be right then Masonry must be recognized as being at once one of the noblest and one of the most indispensable of all human institutions. Not only is Masonry an institution for teaching, but its teaching is to be done in a certain particular way all its own—a way that strikes the novice as most strange and singular withal—not the way of direct statement, but by the way of indirection, which consists in tlie use of "types," "emblems," "symbols," and "allegorical figures." Now just what do these words mean? Before a discussion, an argument or a debate can be of profit to any one, those taking part must define their terms. Otherwise they may very soon find themselves talking about two entirely different things, and no one will get anywhere. We make a big mistake when wo so often take for granted that we know what words mean—often because we are too lazy to look them up. Misunderstandings due to this mistake lie at the bottom of many a quarrel, not only between friends and families, but between peoples and nations. EMERSON has said that " a mutual understanding is ever the firmest chain." Suppose then, before going any further, we make clear in our own minds the meaning of the words we are about to use. Perhaps we shall find that a simple recourse to the dictionary will prove a source not only of solution, but of salvation as well. Salvation may be "free," but most of us have by this time found that if we are to get much of it, we must dig for it. A look in the "big book" tells us that the word " t y p e " conies from a Greek word that means "the mark left by a blow"—doesn't mean a thing itself, but a sign of some other thing. The word "emblem" comes from two other Greek words which moan "laid in," "inlaid," or "imbedded" as a mark or a sign of something. The word "symbol" is defined as " t h a t wliich stands for something else." I t also comes to us from the Greeks—from two words meaning " t o put or throw together," that is to suggest one thing by associating it with another. The word "allegory" also comes from the Greeks—from two words which mean " t o speak of one thing under the guise or irnage of another," that is, apparently to say one thing, but really to mean another. A ."figure" we are told is a certain something which stands for, re-presents (i. e., presents again to our eyes) not itself, but the thing for which it stands. Now, you say, this is all elementary. Well and good. Suppose it is. Then, at least, we have the satisfaction of knowing that it at least is true—not. mere guess-work. Let us not forget that the great themes of life and death, are all "elemental" things. We need to get back to these elemental things. I t is a process that steadies us, secures us and in the end saves us.
386
CORRESPONDENCE—lo
WA.
February,
It is these things we have just been defining that the Craft have strung into strands, like pearls upon a string, to make what we call the " r i t u a l " and "lectures" of our institution. A " r i t u a l " is defined as " t h e form or forms of conducting worship" edso " a form of ceremonies observed by an organization." The word "ceremony" comes from a Latin word signifying the outward forms used to give expression to an inward religion, and is defined as " a series of acts of a symbolical character, prescribed by custom or authority, for the conduct of important matters." Now the ritual concerns itself not only with teaciiing, but-mth the teaching of certain moral and spiritual truths. I t typifies man's effort to get away from the terrestrial and to climb into the realms of the celestial. It cannot teach its lessons by the exact and mathematical methoPs of the chemist or physicist. The things it seeks to teach are of such a nature that they can only be imparted by making a powerful appeal to the imagination. Emblems'and symbols must be used, pictures and parables employed. Yet wherever the imagination must be resorted to, there always remains the danger that it will run wild. For this reason the ritual must be a thing fixed, rigid, and regular. The ritual is the rail upon which the train of thought must run to reach one definite goal—that and no other. I t is the wire upon which must run the current of illumination that is to kindle a certain clear light in the chambers of a mind where before there was darkness. I t is bad enough for us to be compelled to teach moral and spiritual truths by the more or less uncertain and vague methods of types, emblems and symbols, by means of aUegory and allusion. Yet all through the ages man has been able to find no better way. The Master himself found nothing quite so powerful as the parable for imparting the kind of lessons that Masonry strives to teach. And after all as we shall perhaps presently see, there is in this very vagueness a certain advantage. A little reflection will clearly show that not only would our ritual lose all its significance, but the very continuity of Masonry itself would be menaced, if the symbols that make up the ritual did not slay put. So the first requirements of the ritual is that its words, signs and symbols must remain yesterday, today and forever the same. For else we shall pretty soon find it teaching all sorts of wild things that are not, nor ever were. Masonic. This is all the more vital in a day like the present wherein we find so many schemes and notions, so many fads and fancies, trying to cloak themselves with the respectable garb of our ancient and honorable fraternity, for, verily, there seems to be no end to the variety of wild asses that strive to strut beneath the Lion's skin. But the most vital thing of all. so far as the ritual is concerned, is that it should be made to become part and parcel of the Individual Mason. I t should be so beaten and hammered into him, go ground and drilled into him, as to make it a part of the fiber and thread of his inmost being. I t should be so molded and mixed into his make-up that should he be suddenly shot out of sound slumber in the middle of the night, and a line from the lectures lunged at him, he would automatically reply with the right response. He should be soaked in it to the very saturation point. There is only one way to do that thoroughly and well and that is nol from a book or a " cypher " but by the old fashioned method of "from mouth to ear." This old method not only makes an indelible impression on the mind of the neophyte, but it at the same time serves to refresh and crystallize the recollection of the communicator as well. The preservation of the purity of our ritual, and the lessons it teaches demands that this work be done with the utmost accuracy and precision. It simply cannot be too well done. This means hard work for both teacher and pupil, especially for the teacher. Yet it is the only way. There are two things that are absolutely required In a good Masonic worker:—first, he must know his lines, and, second, he mu.st know what they mean, so he can impart them understandlngly and feelingly. The first great Masonic essential is that the Mason should know his ritual.
1926-27.
COBBESPONDENCE—IOWA.
387
We, in Iowa, have great cause for congratulation in the fact that here tills first great essential is being well cared for. The work has been thoroughly organized by a Board of Custodians, whose ripe e.xperience and long years of faithful service has well fitted them for it. and they have had the unflagging support of a band of over two hundred devoted District Lecturers who have tolled tirelessly at the patient, unremitting drudgery which that sort of work demands. No one can witness the Iowa lodge work or hold converse with an Iowa Mason without recognizing the rich results that this work has achieved. But there is another side to the picture. The Mason must not only know his ritual, but he must come to know what that ritual really means. We have already referred to the fact of the apparent vagueness of Masonry's teacliing arising from the figurative form that her instruction invariably takes, to the fact tliat her truths are not boldly and plainly stated, but merely suggested, hinted at, alluded to, half-veiled in moving mist, cloudy, seen a t first "as through a glass darkly." It sometimes seems as though it were purposely made so, in order that both neophyte and master might be made to seek and grope his way to the light. Things that are not quite clear at the outset but are a bit puzzling somehow seem to arouse OMt curiosity and interest. They awaken a hunger to know, and when once we have worked out the solution we value them because they made us work and dig. Obvious things don't stir up much interest, and are too often not really worth while. Yet hidden and concealed though it may be, the meaning is there, and to bring it to light Is at once the Mason's task and his joy. If he fails to find it. his Masonry must remain forever a vain and empty farce. "A thing full of sound and fury signifying nothing!" And he will get at that meaning just in proportion to the industry with which he studies, thinks, imagines and reasons. Every bit of Masonic history, tradition, philosophy and learning that he brings to bear upon the ritual will cause it to glow more and more with the light of meaning. If any one doubt the truth of this statement let him satisfy himself with tills simple experiment:— Let him take any emblem, any symbol, any Une from the ritual or lectures, the name of any historic, or legendary place, or person, named therein and lock up the words, or names, in MACKEY'S Encyclopaedia of Freemasonry, and then having done tliis go back to his ritual, or lecture, and he will find that not only do these things mean more to liim, but that those that were apparently void and meaningless have now taken on a meaning. The further he pursues his search into books and libraries the more of real Masonry he will have, the more of a Mason he wiU himself become. That is one of the reasons why we Masons have a cyclopaedia, books of history, biography, tradition, lectures, essays, not to speak of a wonderful poetry all our own. That is why we build libraries and collect and circulate books, as does no other fraternity on earth. That is why all down the ages men of wisdom have allied themselves with the Order. That is why the wise and the studious, from the great KING SOLOMON down to the prophets of our present day, have been proud to proclaim their allegiance to our institution. Masonry is no shallow thing—it is a deep and a wonderful tiling, a thing in every way worthy the mind of man. It is with the rendition of the ritual very much as It is with the making of music. There must be no false notes, the performance must be mechanically exact, technically perfect, but just as mechanical precision never made reat music, just so it cannot make heart-stirring, soul-moving. Masonic work. It takes a grasp of the meaning to do that. The reason so many of us do not like classical music Is that we are compelled so often to hear it played by a performer who can form no adequate conception of what the composer p u t into it, who has not even a poor glimpse of the story he was trying to tell. Just so a dolt and a dunce can never make the dry bones of the ritual live, never bring out the divine fire that smolders back and behind the word, ready
388
CORRESPONDENCE—lo
WA.
February.
to burst Into flaming glory at the touch of the hand of some master of the meaning. For, as Grand Master KOE FULKERSON, of Washington, has so aptly said, " Words hate meanings." He puts it most powerfully in these words:— " I t is not possible to make a good American from a foreigner merely by teaching him to recite the Constitution of the United States and the Declaration of Independence. He has to know what they mean, how they came to be, who created them. He must know something of the story, something of the ends, aims, ideals of the United States before he can declare, in truth and sincerity, *I am an American.' "Similarly, knowing the ritual does not make a Mason; if a man mouth aU the words perfectly and does not know their meaning, he is not a Mason, though he be in good standing—aye, even an officer of his lodge. "Study; education; books; periodicals; learning; knowledge; Insight; reflection * * * these are the pass words to real Masonry, these the real distinguishing rnarks by which one brother may know another from those who do but w^ear the pin and pay the dues, all unknowing what Masonry really means!"
'
* * * * * *
And what a wonderful message the ritual has for the Mason when once he grasps its meaning! I t proclaims with a voice whose power stirs the very soul that a man should be valued not for what he has, but for what he is; that no brother of the mystic t i e ^ m u c h less the loved ones he leaves behind—shall ever suffer for want of food, shelter, or clothing, for friendly sympathy, or from inability to face the battle of life armed by the strong and sure sword of an education;— that a man should share what he has with the bereft brother who has not, never knowing how soon he, himself, may become that same bereft and distressed brother;—it proclaims the doctrine of the universal and world wide Sonshlp of Man under the divine Fatherhood of GOD, that doctrine of a human brotherhood t h a t overleaps the barriers of creed, of color, of race, and of blood, and "conciliates true friendship among men that might otherwise have remained at a perpetual distance"; a teaching that persists in presenting, as a principle the truth that the Great Architect is forever and always a Creator, and never a-Destroyer, that in all his vast universe there is no death, but only "Life following life forever"—a faith in his goodness, so comprehensive, so complete, so staunch and so steadfast that it regards as veriest sacrilege the simplest suggestion that He would tolerate any such thing as death;—that what we call death is after all only the door through which we escape from the prison of the body into that Summerland, where lies the "Father's house" of "many mansions," and over all, and in it all, and through it all, an insistent and everlasting emphasis on the spiritual over the material, that irradiates and illuminates it, even as does the May sun the mists of morning, with a freshness, a brightness, a divine refulgence that bends the knee, bows the head, and makes one thank GOD for His own great gift of Being! All these are hidden away in our great Masonic ritual, waiting for each Mason to discover and possess them for his very own, provided only he will but take the two great steps without the taking of which he can never find them at all, wliich are, fust, to know his ritual, and, second, to come to know what it means.
The report includes an excellent account of the Proceedings of our Grand Lodge as shown in our 1925 journal. Almost five pages of this excellent report are given to the Sunflower jurisdiction. HARRY MILTON BELT, M . - . W . ' . Grand Master, Des Moines. CHARLES C . HUNT, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Cedar Rapids. LOUIS BLOCK, P.'.G.". M . ' . , Correspondent, Davenport.
Next Annual, Council Bluffs, June 14, 1927.
1926-27.
COBBESPONDENCE—IRELAND.
389
IRELAND —1925. Lodges, 700; m e m b e r s , 50,000; n e t gain, . Dublin, D e c e m b e r 28, 1925. T h e Proceedings are embellished with a splendid likeness, in detail, of Freemasons Hall in Dublin. T h e building seems t o be a home-like s t r u c t u r e and we d o u b t n o t it w o u l d be interesting t o us across t h e w a t e r to visit our brethren in t h i s place. T h e D e p u t y G r a n d M a s t e r , as usual, s u b m i t t e d a message from t h e M.'.W.'. G r a n d M a s t e r of their G r a n d Lodge. We n o t e a reference t o t h e d e a t h of their late Senior G r a n d W a r d e n , B r o t h e r Sir W I L L I A M G O U L D I N G . T h e D e p u t y G r a n d M a s t e r states t h a t B r o t h e r G O U L D I N G h a d been a close personal friend of his for some forty years, b o t h in a n d out of Masonry. U n d e r t h e head of " A n Historic Y e a r " t h e D e p u t y G r a n d M a s t e r reported t h a t their B i - C e n t e n a r y Celebrations were a h a p p y c u l m i n a tion of several years of w h a t might be described as " y e a r s of s t o r m a n d .stress." T h e proceedings of t h a t memorable week h a v e been compiled and can be obtained in book form. W e quote the following from his r e m a r k s on this subjegt: Here we had representatives from all Grand Lodges of .the world that mattered, all we are in amity with, and all we recognise, because those wlio didnot send personal representatives were represented by those to whom the taslr of representation at our Grand Lodge has been delegated. They all seemed tO' be imbued with a thorough Masonic brotherly feeling, and I may tell you. that since they dispersed to England, Scotland, and the four corners of theworld I have been the recipient of very many letters from Bretliren who were: here, and one and all express their admiration of what they had seen, and theirgrateful thanks to us here in Ireland. More especially were they impressed! by tha't magnificent Service wliich was held in our great Cathedral of St. Patrick, and for wliich a great deal of our thanks are due to the outgoing Junior Grand Chaplain (Very Rev. DEAN KENNEDY), and the present Junior Grand Chaplain (Rev. Precentor D. F. R. WILSON). I do not think anyone lias any feelings except those of gratitude to DEAN KENNEDY. His tliree years of office have come to an end, and I should like to pay a tribute to liim for the way he has supported me on all occasions. You will bo glad to hear, those of you who do not already know it, that as a result of that Service another distinguished cleric has joined the Order. I allude to the-Very Rev. the Dean of St. Patrick's. We are glad to welcome him as a Brother Mason (applause). Personally I wish to convey to you all that I as the nominal chief organiser and you as Brethren that you owe to that splendid Committee which carried out the work of the Bi-Centenary (hear, hear). Words really are perfectly inadequate to express my thanks, because I am fully conscious of the fact that, while I could to very little personally more than suggest—for man is only mortal, and cannot do more than a certain amount of work—a great deal of the credit of success would come to myself, and if it were a failure I should get the discredit. I may say that the question of failure never entered into it, because we had some dozen men who were prepared to give up the whole of their time, trouble, and ability to make it the great success it was. I ask these Brethren to accept again my most sincere thanks, and the Grand Master also said that he would like his thanks repeated to them for all they had dona (applause).
390
CoBBESPONDENCE—KENTUCKY.
February,
From his subject of "Masonry in Ireland" we are pleased to quote the following: For Instance, you heard ad nauseam t h e charges brought against us of Irreligion and of a wish t o subvert the powers that be. Now who, whether he agreed ivith us or not, could see that magnificent service in St. Patrick's Cathedral, where some 3,000 Masons gathered together to do homage to and to give thanks to the Great Architect of the Universe, and say we were irreligious? Who could see that representative gathering of men and statesmen who assembled on that occasion and say we were out to subvert the order of society? I t is ridiculous, and I think that has been felt by, a t any rate, the men of any weight in this new State of ours. I think that they see that Freemasonry is an asset to any Stated instead of its being a danger or a disadvantage. A Society like ours, based on the principles of loyalty to GOD and to the State, is the very greatest asset which any State can have within its borders. We do not interfere in politics, but we are the strongest supporters of the State, and it is our boimden duty as Masons to support law and order as against anarchy and confusion. That is one of the first principles of Masonry, and any State posrsessing a strong Grand Lodge has, as I said, a most valuable asset within its borders. The Rt. Hon. T H E EARL OF DONNOUGHMORE, K . P., M/.W.'. •Grand Master. HENRY C . SHELLARD, R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary, Dublin.
KENTUCKY—1925. Lodges, 614; members, 72,072; net loss, 531. Louisville, October 20, 1925. H. M. GRUNDY, M.-.W.-. Grand Master. Their M.'. W.'. Past Grand Master, Brother PETTIT, was conducted to a seat of honor at the left of the Grand Master, as the oldest living Past Grand Master present. Three brethren who were present at the laying of the corner-stone of their Widows and Orphans' Home, October 19, 1869, were present a t this Communication and were introduced by M . \ W . \ Brother W. W. CLARKE. Brother CLARKE, in presenting these brethren, had the following to say: Brethren of the Grand Lodge, it is a source of pride to me when I can stand in the presence of this band of brethren working together for the good of humanity, for the uplift of religion and for the spread of a sane civilization. But, my brethren, in all t h e great work that you have performed in the history of this Grand Lodge, organized, I believe, in 1800, there is none greater than the establishment of the Masonic Widows and Orphans' Home, which was the first Home of its kind established by a fraternal order upon the face of this broad earth upon which we live. I t is the pioneer work of that kind. And all over this great country of ours and in distant lands, other organizations and other Grand Lodges are following in the path blazed by the Grand Lodge of Kentucky.
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—KENTUCKY.
391
From the preface of the Grand Master's address we take the following: We see in the near future a home, sufHcient to care for the widows and orphans of our deceased brothers. We give expression to our thanks to the Masons of Kentucky for their hearty support in this most worthy cause. I t was here, a little more than fifty years ago, that a small army of Masons built the first home of the kind In the world. Patterned after it, similar institutions have been built in almost every State of the Union. Lofty aspirations and high ideals still arise in the hearts of all Kentucky Masons, and no one believes"that the home for our widows and orphans will be permitted to suffer for support as long as the tenets of our order leave their Impress upon the hearts of the Craft in this State. Our hearts overflow with joy as we begin t o see the accomplishment of the years of labor and effort. To-day we will lay the cornerstone of this home which will shelter our dependants for generations to come and stand as a monument to Kentucky Masonry. Looking backward a period of more than a hundred and twenty years of the history of our Grand Lodge, we are delighted with the progress it has made. We catch an inspiration that bids us to look into the future with greater hope. • So, let us face the years to come with renewed pledges to wisely and properly do our part. 1 trust that no action of this grand body will hinder its progress, but, on the other hand, will assist in all its worthy undertakings. In referring to "Electioneering" the Grand Master had the following to say: I call your attention to Sec. 16 (page 16) of the Constitution, prohibiting electioneering in any way for any ofiSce of the Grand Lodge, or in the subordinate lodges. Anyone guilty of such an offense is ineligible to office, either in'the Grand Lodgeor in a subordinate lodge. Too many violations of this section of the Constitution are permitted in our lodges to-day. From the following it appears t h a t the Grand Master was a law abiding citizen and proposed to enforce the Statutes: At the last meeting of the Grand Lodge a resolution was presented by Past Grand Master JAMES E . WILHELM, and was adopted, making it a Masonic offense for any brother to purchase or possess intoxicating liquors or narcotic drugs, except in accordance with the laws of the country. My attention has been called during the year several times to Lodges whose members have violated this regulation, and no charges have been preferred, nor has any notice been taken of'these offenses. i n some cases members have been convicted in the Federal Court of making and possessing intoxicants, and even then the Lodges have paid no attention. I call this to your attention so that you may have knowledge of this law and see that it is not violated. We find a good half-tone of their Grand Secretary, Brother F R E D HARDWICK facing the first page of his report. Brother HARDWICK'S picture prompts one who Uves in Kansas to say that he looks as if he were "corn-fed". The corner-stone of the Masonic Widows' and Orphans' Home on the Shelbyville Road, Jefferson County, was laid on October 20, 1925, by the Grand Lodge. .The principal address on this occasion
392
COBBESPONDENCE—KENTUCKY.
February,
w a s delivered b y t h e G r a n d M a s t e r a n d we quote t h e following from his t a l k : Someone has said this is the era of Masonry's popularity, this is the epoch of Masonry's opportunity, this is the day of Masonry's responsibility. This is true, indeed. Masonry to-day is more popular tlian ever before. Our membership increases every year. There never was a greater opportunity than now to do a great work. Our rcsponsitjiiitics are even greater because our opportunities are greater. If we neglect this great Order that you and I love, this Order that is caring for the widow, educating the orphan and taking care of the old Mason wlio is not able to care for himself, must suffer and you and 1 are to blame. Each of us has a duty to perform. The glory and the usefulness of any organization, dci)ends upon the individual members. Then if Masonry is to function to its greatest efficiency, it is up to you and me to give to it the best we liave, and become a part of that wlilcli is promoting the principles it promulgates. In all ages its achievements have been great, but it seems tliat in the dispensation of an all-wise Providence, it has lieen reserved for this our own country and tliis our own age to mark its greatest advancement as to membership and its influence for the jjrinciples it has ever recognized and advocated. To-day we have millions of the best and truest men on earth as members of this great Fraternity whose influence is felt in every, walk of life, in every phase of progress, influence for good in the consideration of all questions of community, state and nation. To-day duty calls; the pathway our feet should tread is clearly marked. Hear the call, brothers! Be Masons, strong in heart and mind, with a determination like those tjack yonder a half a century ago, and liuild this home. Carry it to an early completion. Let no action of this Grand Body delay its progress. Our K e n t u c k y b r e t h r e n are building u p a million dollar fund for t h e benefit of their H o m e a n d w e find t h a t their cash balance on ha'nd a t t h e t i m e of m a k i n g their last r e p o r t , was over one-half million. C e r t a i n l y a splendid showing for our b r e t h r e n of t h a t jurisdiction. W e t a k e this o p p o r t u n i t y of calhng t h e a t t e n t i o n of t h e G r a n d S e c r e t a r y t o t h e address uf'Trie writer of this report, who likewise h a p p e n s t o b e Grand Secretary, a n d as shown on page 189 of their P r o ceedings. H e has the G r a n d S e c r e t a r y located a t Seventh a n d J a c k son. W e m o v e d from t h o s e q u a r t e r s t o t h e present G r a n d Lodge p r o p e r t y t w e n t y - o n e years a g o ; therefore if B r o t h e r H A R D W I C K desires t o enter t h e special a d d r e s s it should be " M a s o n i c G r a n d Lodge Building". T h e Proceedings of K a n s a s for 1925 receive a t t e n t i o n a t t h e h a n d s of B r o t h e r W I L L I A M W . C L A R K E , w h o writes t h e R e p o r t on Corresp o n d e n c e . H e refers t o t h e K a n s a s - N e w H a m p s h i r e proposition a n d as a m a t t e r of information t h e writer will s a y t h a t t h e proffered h a n d of b r o t h e r l y love and affection was n o t only declined b y our N e w H a m p s h i r e b r e t h r e n b u t we received a smite on t h e other cheek. •
G. A L L I S O N H O L L A N D , M . - . W . - . G r a n d M a s t e r , Lexington. F R E D W . H A R D W I C K , R . - . W . - . G r a n d S e c r e t a r y , Louisville. W I L L I A M W . C L A R K E , P . - . G . ' . M . - . , C o r r e s p o n d e n t , Owensboro.
N e x t A n n u a l , Louisville, October 19, 1926.
1926-27.
CORBESPONDENCE^LOUISIANA.
393
LOUISIANA —1926. Lodges, 269; members, 34,905; n e t gain, 408. N e w Orleans, F e b r u a r y 1, 1926.
HANEY B . CONNER, M.-. W.-.
Grand Master. I n opening this volume we first find a half-tone of their Masonic H o m e for O r p h a n s a t Alexandria. W h e n one looks a t a picture of this k i n d t h e y c a n n o t help being impressed with t h e t h o u g h t t h a t Masonic c h a r i t y is t h e foundation stone upon which our whole organization rests. I t is indeed t h e spirit of M a s o n r y exemplified in a m a t e r i a l way. This H o m e was dedicated on J u n e 24, 1925, a n d from t h e address of B r o t h e r L E E E . THOMAS we are pleased t o q u o t e t h e following: The Masonic order is no artificial idol of a departed age, no ineffectual bauble born in superstitious darkness and religious dismay, no pretentious relic of despair born in the captivity and dragged forth from the ruins of the dark ages. No, my friends, it is the happy reverse of all this. I t is the embodiment of all that would be perfect in the spirit and aspirings of man. It is an institution whose duty it is to stoop to the unfortunate, to hear their every cry and to help them, to rescue and relieve. Majestic from its mercy, venerable from its antiquity, uplifted without pride, and lovely even in its frown. AVhat matters it to us here whether this Order of the Square, the Level, and the . Plumb, comes from the Syrians or the Chaldeans or the Egyptian priects, or from the Hebrew land of Kings and prophets, or from Grecian Academy. I care not whether the mysterious pyramids still testify of its eternity, for you know and I know that this, our faith, is a sublime and practical moral force and this force is the parent of all others. This great Order of ours stands as one of the bulwarks for the preservation of humanity and has been recognized down the ages as having played its part in the preservation of government of th'e people and the exaltation of the highest ideals of citizenship. A t t h e A n n u a l Communication we find on referring t o t h e list of G r a n d Representatives present t h a t K a n s a s was minus their a m bassador. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r h a d t h e following t o s a y in presenting his annual address: Three hundred and sixty-five days have passed since last wo met; tlu-ee hundred and sixty-five days of opportunity t o serve GOD and man; days of opportunity to study and observe Freemasonry at work in its great process of opening the eyes of mankind to the fact that "All men are created free and equal,"—that intolerance and bigotry arc removed in proportion to the extent that Masonic principles, whether recognized as such or not, are instilled in the hearts and minds of the individual members of society. N e x t t o t h e record m a d e b y t h e G r a n d M a s t e r of Texas in 1924 this r e p o r t of t h e G r a n d M a s t e r of Louisiana s t a n d s second in t h e n u m b e r of rulings a n d decisions rendered, as t h e r e were eighty-eight, occupying t h i r t y - t h r e e pages. Practically all of t h e m are answering questions of a local n a t u r e and which we h a v e no d o u b t are covered in their laws. T h e question, therefore, m i g h t be consistently raised
394
•'
CORRESPONDENCE—LOUISIANA.
February.
whether the Masters, during Brother CONNER'S administration, were a success in reading and posting themselves on Masonic law. • The following request, denied by the Grand Master, may be of interest to our readers: During the month of November a request came to me relative to permitting a member of the Order of' the Eastern Star to solicit SI.00 contributions to raise a fund of S&O.OOO.OO to lift a mortgage on the home of a Brother Master Mason and his wife. I replied that while the motives were very commendable, the purpose was one that could not be imdertaken by the Grand Lodge or by constituent lodges or by all combined as the lady in question is not applying for relief due to the lack of necessities of life, but is asking payment of the mortgage.
We submit one, concerning "Masonic Clubs" with no comment, other than to say "Consistency thou art a jewel": During the year the Masonic Drug Club of New Orleans was organized. This matter was called t o my attention by one who thought that it was commercializing Freemasonry. Upon investigation, I found that it was holding under the National League of Masonic Clubs, that it was organized for social purposes only and that there was no commercial clement in it. I therefore consider it in the same class with a Square and Compass Club, the Salesman's Square and the Masonic Club of New Orleans, all of which have received our approval.
We might add that in addition to the organizations mentioned above there still remain about thirty-three more which we anticipate might come under the same head and receive the same favor. On January 31, 1926, the Grand Lodge laid the corner-stone of the new Masonic Temple in New Orleans, and from the picture of this structure it certainly is one of the finest in this country. Our brethren of Louisiana are to be congratulated on the construction of this wonderful edifice. Brother JOHN A. DA VILLA again presents the Report on Correspondence. His report throughout indicates that he overlooks nothing of importance when reviewing the Proceedings of other jurisdictions— in fact we wonder sometimes just how he does it. We dislike disappointment under the most favorable circumstances and especially when something is said following a compliment which rather seems to put a "dampener" on the proposition; however, we cannot miss this one. He refers to our Deputy Grand Master, Brother CHARLES A. LOUCKS and who served as our Grand Master in 1925, as
Grand Orator at our Annual Communication held in Wichita in 1925. Brother LouCKS is deserving of any such compliment; however, in justice to the REAL orator we must say that this address was delivered by Brother RICHARD J. HOPKINS. J. PAUL HALLER, M . \ W . ' . Grand Master, New Orleans. JOHN A: D A VILLA, R . ' . W.". Grand Secretary and Correspondent,
New Orleans. Next Annual, New Orleans, February 7, 1927.
1926-27.
CoBBESPONDENCE—MAINE.
395
MAINE—1926. Lodges, 206; members, 43,485; net gain, 504. Portland, May 4, 1926. DAVID E . MOULTON, M . - . W . - . Grand Master. Brother ARCHIE L E E TALBOT was present as our Grand Representative. We are pleased to announce this to our brethren as Brother TALBOT was prevented from attending the Grand Lodge of Maine last year on account of an accident. The Grand Master in presenting his address had the following to say: It is said that in ancient Egypt, at all important gatherings each guest upon arrival, was reminded in some way of the brevity of life and the certainty of death. In like manner as we meet in Annual Communication, we are reminded by the absence of those whose faces we were accustomed to see, how brittle is the thread of life and how temporary is our sojourn here. Let us bow in gratitude to the Supreme Grand Master that we are privileged to meet once more in fraternal coimsel and the more earnestly resolve t o devote our remaining years to the service of GOD and our fellow men. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r , u n d e r t h e subject of " Degrees b y C o u r t e s y , " h a d t h e following t o s a y : Many requests are still being made to our Grand Secretary for conferring the degrees by courtesy of other jurisdictions and our sister states have been most gracious In granting them. Nevertheless it seems to me that circumstances are rare when a foreign lodge should be called upon to confer all three degrees, and unless the candidate is able to get at least one of them in his own lodge, it is questionable If that is where he belongs. I suggest that a regulation be adopted, to the effect that no request for conferring degrees by courtesy be made unless the candidate has received his Entered Apprentice degree in his own lodge. In conformity with this recommendation the Committee on Amendments to the Constitution recommended that a standing regulation be adopted requiring t h a t at least the Entered Apprentice degree be conferred by the electing Lodge before entertaining a req\)f st by the lodge to have the degrees conferred by courtesy in a lodge in another Grand Jurisdiction. Under "Floor W o r k " he had the following to say: While our ritual, so rich in its symbolism and splendid in its language, affords great opportunity for dramatic effect, we should never lose sight of the fact that its purpose Is to inculcate the moral precepts rather than to exhibit dramatic ability; to appeal to the higher nature rather than the spectacular; to the substantial rather than the superficial. Nothing should be introduced to detract from the lessons intended to be taught and it is a grave question if the time has not arrived to consider a change in nowise to affect the ritual, but which wUl restrict to some extent the floor work in the third degree. Certainly as the work is performed in many of our lodges, the dramatic feature completely overshadows the great lesson intended to be inculcated, and for that reason alone Is fairly subject to criticism. There is another aspect of the matter, however, which has been forcibly called to our attention by a recent incident in one
396
CORRESPONDENCE—MAINE.
February,
of our local lodges, sufficient in itself to raise grave question as to the propriety of the work as at present conducted. T would therefore suggest that the matter be referred to our Committeo on Jurisprudence for careful consideration and report in the hope that some improvement may bo suggested. T h e words in his conclusion are w o r t h y of t h e perusal of a n y M a s o n a n d we t a k e pleasure in quoting t h e m : In some closing addresses, Grand Masters have most eloquently discussed the beauties of Masonry and pointed out the great benefits to mankind that must follow if it would adapt itself to modern conditions and exert its mighty influence in the general uplift of scciety. 1 confess that as Grand Master, I have had no such aspirations. It. during my term of office, the Ancient Landmarks have been preserved, I am content. No act of mine has contributed or will contribute to the reformation of Masonry in an attempt to adapt it to the present age or time. In my conception, it is not an order or society susceptible to amendment or change. It has not, nor ever should have, any connection with so called schools of reform, however meritorious these may be» any of which may well" adapt themselves to changes in the conditions which they attempt to control. "Masonry is an Institution, and its Usages, Customs, Laws and Ancient Rcgnlations are fixed and unalterable." It is not within the power, and should never be the attempt of any body of men to make innovations therein. They make Masonry what it is, and when they are changed there is no Masonry. The only progress that is permissible is a better understanding of the nature of Masonry and a more perfect knowledge of its sublime truths. I have no sympathy for the individual Mason who is not ready and willing to do his, full duty as he sees it in all civil, social and religious matters. He is not a good Mason if ho fails to do so, but I have no good word for the misguided Alason who thinks it necessary and proper for Masonry as an organization, to give its support to the same civil, social, and religious cause, for the very good reason that some other Mason equally conscientious and eager to discharge his duties in like matters may feel that a contrary action should be taken. Each should act as his conscience directs and neither has any right to commit t h e institution as such to the support of 'any plan or program in any cause, however meritorious. Masonry was-lianded down to us by our forefathers as a sacred trust. We received it as Ancient Craft Masonry, and so it should ever remain, free and unadulterated. In the words of our illustrious Brother M.'.W.'. .losiAH H. DRU.MMOND in closing his oration on the Seventy-fifth Anniversary of this Grand Lodge, words again repeated by our lamented Brother M.'.W.-. ALBRO E . CHASE at its Centennial Anniversary, " A S you love Masonry, whatever betide, come prosperity, or come adversity, adhere with unflinching tenacity to the ancient usages of the Craft.", Brother ASHLEY A. SMITH presents the Report on Correspondence;
however, we note the absence of any reference to the Grand Jurisdiction of Kansas. We are somewhat at a loss to understand why Brother SMITH did not review our 1925 Proceedings as his last refer-
ence to this jurisdiction was the journal for 1924. Our 1925 Proceedings were mailed to all jurisdictions during March of that year and those for 1926 were mailed out early in April, 1926. DAVID L . WILSON, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Bath. CHARLES B . DAVIS, R.-. W . ' . Grand Secretary, Portland. ASHLAND A. SMITH, Correspondent, Bangor.
Next Annual, Portland, May 3, 1927.
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—MANITOBA.
397
MANITOBA-1926. Lodges, 100; members, 11,653'; net gain, 253. "Winnipeg, June 9, 1926. ALBERT L . CROSSIN, M . ' . W . ' . Grand Master. R.-. W.'. Brother JABEZ MILLER, our Grand Representative, was present. The brethren at this Communication were honored with the presence of M.-.W.'. JOHN A. ROWLAND, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Canada, (Ontario). From the preface to his address the Grand Master had the following to say among other things: Last year our vision was retrospective. Witli pride and satisfaction we contemplated a half-century of achievement and paid tribute to the courage and faith of the pioneer Masons of Manitoba, once again gratefully acicnowledgIng that the rugged figure of the pioneer is one of the noblest in a nation's history. Today we attempt to visualize the tasks of the future in the knowledge t h a t the complexities of our civilization with its means of rapid communication are creating problems unknown in past generations. The incoming of strange peoples, unfamiliar with British ideals, the new political groupings, the amazing impatience of the electorate and the mob spirit it engenders— these things are disturbing and suggest the breakdown of old faiths. Amidst such movements stands our great brotherhood holding by the eternal, unchangeable truths of life and welcoming into its membership all honest, truehearted men; a unifying force in our national life and a powerful agency for the nurture of good will amongst men. If these ideals are piu'sued steadily for a generation by the craft in this Province, Free Masonry will have wrought a work which will endure for all time and for which our children's children will call us blessed. Referring to the more important and serious matters in connection with the Fraternity he had the following to say: Brethren, Masonry is a spiritual force. Today's discussions will soon he forgotten but the influence of our association here will abide. The friendships formed, the sympathies received and given, the clear understanding obtained of the character and quality of ovir fellow citizens; such memories as these will refresh the soul and sweeten life throiigh all the years to come. Such is the ministry of Free Masonrj'. A philosopher has said: "Ignorance and bungling with love are better t h a n wisdom and skill without. There may be courtesy, there may even be temper, and wit, and talent, and sparkUng conversation, there may be goodwill even—and yet the humanest and divinest faculties pine for exercise. Our life without love is like coke and ashes. Men may be pure as alabaster and Parian marble, elegant as a Tuscan villa, sublime as Niagara, and yet if there is no milk mixed with their wine at their entertainments, better is the hospitality of Goths and Vandals." He is heartily in favor of visits among lodges, as expressed in these words: Most heartily do I commend the growing custom of inter-Lodge visits, especially the interchange of visits between city Lodges and those meeting in rural parts. These visits evidence the essential unity of the craft—that we are
398
CORRESPONDENCE—MANITOBA.
February,
one in spirit and purpose—create new and precious friendships and discover to the untravelled Mason that other Lodges than his own are doing excellent work. No Lodge should consider the year's activities complete which has not made at least one visit to a sister Lodge and preferably a Lodge at a considerable distance. I can testify that these visits have been to me amongst the most inspiring and refreshing experiences of my Masonic life. H e is n o t unmindful of tlie question of s a n i t a t i o n as indicated in t h e following: It is my earnest conviction that one of the first requirements of a prosperous Lodge is a well ventilated Lodge room—a plentiful supply of fresh air is essential to clear-headedness. Cleanliness may be next to godliness, but godliness cannot be cultivated without oxygen. Drowsiness in church it is now known is caused by foul air and hot always by bad preaclilng. Sudden lapses of memory on the part of ofBcers, incoherency in an extended address, lack of interest on the side benches—all may be attributed to the overheated, poisonladen atmosphere in which the ordinary Lodge functions. With slight effort every Lodge can assure itself a sufficient supply of fresh air, adding to the comfort of the members and the efficiency of the work and substantially reducing "flu" cases. Referring t o initiates coming into t h e f r a t e r n i t y he h a d t h e following t o s a y : As each new group of initiates comes Into the Order, a i-e-statement of sound doctrine is required. The most sacred duty a Mason has to perform is in the use of the ballot and the injunction to regard this duty as a trust cannot be too often repeated. To use a black ball carelessly, maliciously or spitefully is to injure the Lodge, besrnirch your own soul and wound a brother man. Personal feelings must not be allowed to influence your actions here. The only justification for the employment of a black ball is that one's conscience warns one that the applicant is unworthy. Masonry is no exclusive social club.. It is a universal brotherhood to which we welcome every true GOD-fearlng man who freely and voluntarily offers himself a candidate to partake with us of its mysteries and privileges on his declaration of his sincere msh to render himself more extensively serviceable to liis fellow creatures. T h e G r a n d Secretary's r e p o r t is interesting t h r o u g h o u t as we note h e covers t h e more i m p o r t a n t m a t t t e r s which required his a t t e n t i o n , i n c l u d i n g a v e r y complete s u m m i n g up of t h e m e m b e r s h i p . B r o t h e r OvAS, however, is an old h a n d at t h e business and he is always r e a d y a n d willing t o furnish t h e Craft in his jurisdiction w i t h such inform a t i o n as will be of t h e greatest interest. T h e R e v i e w of Proceedings of other jurisdictions is covered in a splendid r e p o r t p r e p a r e d b y B r o t h e r J A M E S S . M A C E W I N G , P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r , a n d we are pleased t o quote t h e following from his i n t r o duction: Grand Lodges as a whole are devoting much time, energy and money to the perennial problems of Masonic benevolence. The erection and maintenance of Homes has been a general solution so far. Grand Lodges are now finding out that these are expensive to erect and costly to maintain. A fixed overhead has to be met irrespective of the number of Inmates, and in addition there is the problem of securing a suitable Superintendent and staff. I t is also recognized that the atmosphere of such a building can never equal that of an honest-to-goodness home.
1926-27.
CoBBESPONDENCE—MARYLAND.
399
While Homes or their substitutes are an absolute necessity for the bedridden and helpless, it must be conceded that when able to look after themselves no adult will be as happy as in their own home or amongst their own people. As for children, no Home at its best can provide a suitable environment for developing our future citizens. One Jurisdiction is considering the sale of their Home arid reverting to stated monthly payments. Others are increasing their accommodations or erecting new buildings. Some are discussing relieving the congestion in their Homes by suggesting that lodges endeavor to accommodate their unfortunate in their own community. This would enable the lodge to supervise their comfort, while Grand Lodge would undertake compensation. One very noticeable feature of all Grand Lodge Communications is the gradual encroachment upon the liberties of the Constituent Lodge. While it is true that cliqiies in individual lodges will sometimes forget Masonic obligation, yet 1 do not believe it is the part of msdom on the part of Grand Masters or Grand Lodges to make our lodges the equivalent of a "rubber stamp".
He favors us with a splendid review of our 1926 Proceedings. He ventures to ask the writer, as Grand Secretary, to enlighten him on what is termed by us as a " Grand Secretary's Certificate." In explanation the writer will say that a' Grand Secretary's Certificate is in eflfect the same as a dimit, being issued by the Grand Secretary to all members of defunct lodges; in other words, when the charter of a lodge is surrendered or revoked all members in good standing and who are clear on the books or who subsequently pay the amount due to the Grand Secretary are issued a Grand Secretary's Certificate and with this they are permitted to petition for membership in the same^manner as if the document issued were a regular dimit. J. C. WALKER R E I D , M.-.W.-. Grand Master, Underbill. JAMBS A. OVAS, R.-. W.". Grand Secretary, Winnipeg. JAMES S . MACEWING, P . - . G . - . M . - . , Correspondent, Treherne.
Next Annual, Winnipeg, June 8, 1927.
MARYLAND —1925. Lodges, 118; members, 32,055; net gain, 758. Semi-Annual Communication held in Baltimore, May 12, 1925. WARREN S . SEIFP, M:. W.: Grand Master.
In accordance with their custom the Deputy Grand Master convened the Grand Lodge, opening it in Due Form and then received the Grand Master in proper form, accompanied by music. The first paragraph of the Grand Master's address reads as follows: Providence has dealt kindly with us during the past six months. Not a single Officer or Past Grand Officer has received the summons from the Grim Keaper—and financially the Grand Lodge is in better condition than it has ever been. If nothing should occur to prevent the even tenor of our way. In a very short while, we may devote our time and our energies to real constructive work.
400
CORRESPONDENCE—MARYLAND.
February,
Referring to the proposed Masonic Home he had the following to say: The Masonic Home problem has taken many turns during the past term .and at present, we have collected about $82,000 wliich, with the exception of a few hundred doUars has been invested. Figuring on the contributions from the Fraternity, our average at this writing is about $1.66 per capita. There is much work to be done. Everyone is asked to co-operate to the utmost. The amount of funds in hand may warrant the Board of Trustees in presenting concrete plans in some form at the annual communication. There has been offered for sale, nearly the whole state of Maryland and each particular location presenting very forceful arguments as to. why his should be selected. The building of a homo is in itself no small matter, but the maintenance Is far more important and for this reason, the Board of Trustees has been giving an enormous amount of time to the project. "We want to build slowly and we hope, securely. Referring t o the Ritual he h a d the following to say: The constant changing of personnel in the Lodges as in the outlying districts, weaken our ritual, but in my opinion, when a man is sick he needs a nurse and skillful attention and we hope that this will be forthcoming to such an extent that the patient will not only survive; but have his youth "renewed and health and vigor be injected into the Lodge.
Looking upon the more sober phase of life the following remarks are worthy of reproduction in our Proceedings: We all know that our beloved Fraternity is the story of human life and as we pass this way but once, it is not surprising that many of us gather flowers along the way; others seem satisfied vfith weeds, and many gather absolutely nothing on the journey of life and come to its end with empty hands, depending upon their more fortunate fellows for the help that they may need. Flowers are admired by all, loved by some and adored by others. To one the bloom is pretty, to another beautiful, to another it is the visible expression of an unseen power. Many persons are content with viewing the blossoms, perfectly satisiied to bask in their beauty and fragrance; other take real pleasure from the planting and tending, and aiding to bring forth the flowers and fruit; still others delight in the propagating and giving to the world new varieties. Each is doing in his own way, according to Ills ability, something to give pleasure to the world, but behind it all, whether it is the bloom, or the plant, or the root, it is the rain and the sunshine and the life-giving power of the Great Creator of all things without which all else would be naught; thus it is with Masonry— to some the flower will attract but a passing glance, others will linger over its fragrance and beauty, others will dig in the soil and willingly give of the toU and labor necessary to bring the flower to perfection realizing that behind it all is the unseen power which gives it life and that the rain and the sun and the labor are the cares and attention necessary to its well being. If all of our members could only be brought to realize the wonderful fruit of the labor of love that Is to be the reward for the work and cultivation necessary to bring our symbols and ritual to a perfect understanding that we may not only enjoy the beauty of the bloom, but to grow with the plant, becoming more firmly established year after year, absorbing its very life-giving qualities, and passing them on to others, how different our Fraternity would be and what a wonderful meaning it would have for all of us, and how different the understanding and interpretation of our ritualistic beauty, which buds, blossoms and bears fruit to each individual according to his ability.
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—MARYLAND.
401
T h e Annual C o m m u n i c a t i o n w a s held N o v e m b e r 17, 1925, a t which C o m m u n i c a t i o n we are pleased t o see t h e n a m e of B r o t h e r J A C O B R O H R B A C H as our G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e a m o n g t h o s e present. Referring t o t h e Masonic Service Association he h a d t h e following to say: Brethren, some few years ago, the Masonic Service Association of the United States was formed. I t was distinctly stated at that time that the purpose of that Association was to overcome diiRculties that had arisen during the world war whereby forty-eight jurisdictions could not receive recognition, not having a single head, as had other associations of the United States. It was stated at that time while a national Grand Lodge was not contemplated, that all of the Grand Lodges were in\'ited to join an organization t h a t would give them representation should occasion require. A certain per capita tax was levied; viz.: Ave cents per capita—and about thirty-eight of the fortyeight Grand Lodges went into the organization. The United States was divided Into districts, with certain officials representing the Association in them. The Idea of the organization and the purpose as explained to this Grand Lodge at the time we went into it was that this per capita tax was to be the basis of a fund that was to be created for immediate use should a calamity, disaster or misfortune overtake any of our sister jurisdictions, and should occasion like the recent war arise that we would be banded together into an organization that would at least have some official representation of the Grand Lodges who were members. That, in a nut shell was the purpose of the Association when it was started and that is the basis, as I. recall it, on which this Grand Lodge voted and entered as a member of that Association. Unfortunately the Brother who was Chairman of the Executive Committee slipped and the whole machine went in the ditch and it appears that the ideals that were built by the organizers were lost. The organization as it now exists was placed in other 'hands and today it is publishing a series of pamphlets that should have been received by every Lodge in this jurisdiction. If the Lodge has not received them, I am very sure that the Secretaries have, because I have been assured by the Secretary of the Association that they were mailed. Those pamphlets wore to have been read before the Lodges. Then a year or so ago the Association decided to publish the Master Mason. I want to say that it is one of the best publications for Lodge members we have in the United States today, and is well worth $1.50 of your money. The point is this: I asked the Board of Managers at our meeting in October, for advice, and after discussing the matter in the Board of Managers and the way in which they had been spending our money and not receiving what we considered as value received—costing somewhat over $1500 a year—we reached the conclusion that we would present to this Grand Lodge the question of our withdrawal from that Association. On the strength of the discussion in the Board of Managers which was by no means official, I, as Grand Master, sent this letter to the Executive Secretary of the Masonic Service Association, addressing him as such: "Maryland will pay the 1025 assessment, and will withdraw from the Masonic Service Association," at once. Now, the thing that brought that to a head was that they had sent out a proposed amendment to their By-Laws whereby the Grand Lodges who are members of said association were to be forced to pay certain fees at certain times and could only withdraw after having paid those fees and we felt that the Grand Lodge of Maryland was not in a position to be dictated to. Brother HENRY BRANCH submits the usual Report on Corres-
pondence and although rather brief he covers the more important matters of legislation in the several jurisdictions.
402
COBBESPONDENCE—MASSACHUSETTS.
February.
In reviewing our 1925 Proceedings he directs attention t o the question of "Physical Qualification," and now as a matter of information we refer Brother BRANCH to that subject in our 1926 Proceedings, which we believe forever settles that question so far as our Grand Lodge is concerned. The proSered hand of brotherly love was not accepted by our New Hampshire brethren, but on the other hand, we received the same treatment as heretofore. WARREN S. SEIPP, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Baltimore. GEORGE COOK, R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary, Baltimore. HENRY BRANCH, Correspondent, Leesburg, Virginia.
Next Annual, Baltimore, November 16, 1926.
MASSACHUSETTS —1925. Lodges, 312; members, 122,324; net gain, 2,205. The first Quarterly Communication was held March 11, 1925. R.-. W.-. CURTIS CHIPMAN, acting Grand Master.
The acting Grand Master first calls attention to the absence of the M.'. W.". Grand Master who at the time of this Communication was on a tour of visitations among their overseas lodges. • At this particular time he was in the Canal Zone, from which place he sailed for Chile, where he visited their District Grand Master. A full report of his extended visits is submitted to the Grand Lodge after his return. Proper reference is made under the head of "Necrology" to the death of their Past Grand Master, M.-. W.". EDWIN B . HOLMES, who was the Senior Past Grand Master of that jurisdiction. A proposition looking toward the sale of their present property for $1,500,000.00 and the erection of a new Temple was given careful consideration by the Grand Master and several committees, but the proposition did not meet with the approval of a majority of the members of the Grand Lodge and the subject was therefore indefinitely postponed. The next Quarterly Communication was held June 10, 1925. The Grand Master, M.'.W.-. Brother DUDLEY H . TERRELL, was present at this Communication and presented an interesting report. Concerning the Philippine question he cautioned the brethren that the socalled "Gran Logia Nacional de Filipinas" was irregular and their brethren should not hold Masonic intercourse with them. From the address of the Grand Master a t their Quarterly Communication of September 9, 1925, we are pleased to quote the following: What seems to lis to be one of the tragedies of time in its passing, is the separation between friends and Brethren which it often compels. I t Is not an uncommon experience t o find upon the arrival of tomorrow, that today's friend has
1926-27.
CoBBESPONDENCB—MASSACHUSETTS.
403
gone from our side out into the great unknown, along the edge of which we daily walk. Yet to this experience we never become accustomed and, of the loss involved, only time, contradicting itself, can bring understanding or if not un- ' derstanding. at least, it gives to us in our relations to the loss, the delicate adjustment of peace. The second mark of interest which a survey displays is the very evident awakening of the Brethren themselves to a broader vision of Masonry, to a deeper plumbing of its depths of meaning and a broader measure of the obligations it imposes as Avell as the privileges it confers. . I do not believe there ever was a time when the Brethren not only expected but demanded more from our association, and sketched with less vagueness the duties wliich such a Brotherhood must acknowledge in order to maintain its integrity and justify its existence. Perhaps it is the requirement of an ordered social existence more clearly revealed because of an assertive, and self-evident social disorder t h a t has produced this new attitude on the part of the Brethren. But whatever the cause may be, the result cannot be denied. We speak of Masonry today not as a mystical system of philosophy, Avorking by curious ceremonies and secret means to create for its own members a certain benefit. I t is not an exclusive organization with a liability selfishly measured. 'Tis true its first duty is to those who have pledged their loyalty and dedicated themselves to its principles. But that duty, even, is not performed until its social obligation is met; until the Mason, with vision illuminated by the instructions in his Liodge, mind eQuipped with the wisdom of Masonic word and life, and with soul fiUed Avith the larger knowledge of eternal truth, is able and anxious to take his place among his fellow men a willing servant of the public good, a fearless champion of social justice. Masonry, like any similar system of moral philosophy embodied in an organization of individuals, such as constitute the Grand Lodge and subordinate Lodges of Massachusetts, is either one of the assets or one of the liabilities of the.life that men must live together here upon the earth. Let us beware le.st we think too much about ourselves for oiu'selves and measure our effectiveness in ter.rns of selfish benefit, yet we cannot afford to do less than think of ourselves anxiously and continually if this self-interest is translated in terms of social enrichment. Masonry is not justified if the only measure of its achievement is the preservation of its own life.
From the address of the Grand Master at the Quarterly Communication of December 9, 1925, we are pleased to quote the following: How confusing is time in the various fashions of its appearance. Upon leaden feet it sometimes seems merely to crawi; again, upon wings, it speeds with inevitable swiftness upon its errand of gathering the material from which is woven the destiny of man. In prospect, the hoxu-s always seem long, the counted days are many, the years stretch out to a dim and distant horizon. In retrospect, the days and years lose their expansive proportions; what was the vast emptiness of great open spaces is now but a crowded little portion of the ages; a new horizon has taken the place of the old, for time has passed; we have been permitted either to play with or use its opportimities, we have been denied no adventure of striving. . The marvel of what has been is t h e swiftness of its coming and going; the perplexity of it, is the place to which we must assign it in our record of effort. 2S"o one, therefore, can survey t h e prospects of life without being led to a serious consideration of the fashion in which its opportunities should be regarded; for, whatever oiu- fancy may tell us, it yet remains the verdict of experience that the day is short, time does n o t •walk but fly, and we dare be nothing but alert, ever ready for any duty lest when time has passed we find ourselves companioned by regrets, conscious
404
COBBESPONDBNCE—MEXICO.
February,
that into the past from which there is no return there have gone privileges and opportunities that would have made us happier and other men richer had we not ignored them. T h e u s u a l S t a t e d C o m m u n i c a t i o n was held D e c e m b e r 28, 1925, a t w h i c h t i m e t h e G r a n d S e c r e t a r y p r e s e n t e d his r e p o r t a n d t h e G r a n d Officers were installed. F R A N K L . SIMPSON, M . ' . W . \ Boston. FREDERICK W . HAMILTON,
Grand Master, Masonic R.-.W.-. Grand
Secretary,
Temple, Masonic
Temple, Boston.
MEXICO —1925. Lodges, 15; members, 904; n e t loss, 34. T a m p i c o , April
9, 1925.
M A R C U S A. L E O V Y ,
M.-.W.-. Grand
Master. T h e frontispiece is a likeness of their p r e s e n t G r a n d Master, M.'. W.'. J O H N I. N E W E L L , who is likewise r e p r e s e n t a t i v e of our G r a n d L o d g e n e a r t h e Y o r k G r a n d Lodge of Mexico. W e feel highly h o n o r e d in h a v i n g s u c h a distinguished b r o t h e r as our a m b a s s a d o r . T h e G r a n d M a s t e r , a m o n g other t h i n g s , h a d t h e following t o s a y in s u b m i t t i n g his a n n u a l a d d r e s s : If permanent good can come from this future years alone can tell. In my efforts to promote peace and harmony I have ever been ready to give my services, as an example to others. Have acted uprightly and helping and encouraging everyone by words of good counsel. By cultivating Brotherly Love, the foundation and the capstone, the cement and the glory of our Ancient Fraternity, the past year has been one of great quietness. By exercising great care in receiving new material our future stability is guaranteed. Our future looks bright, as our internal condition is healthy. U n d e r " M e m b e r s h i p " we q u o t e t h e following: Wo regret some will not pay until drastic remedies are employed; but the remedy is curative, and the patients will either pay up or not be a "cancer" on the body of Freemasonry. The time to apply the remedy Is when the debt is not large and the patient unable or unwilling to pay. By paying promptly the suspended member automatically reinstates himself. I n t h e m i d s t of t h e address we find a half-tone of t h e Masonic T e m p l e a t T a m p i c o , t h e construction of which looks q u i t e a bit like o u r buildings in t h e s t a t e s . Concerning h a r m o n y a m o n g t h e several branches of M a s o n r y he h a d t h e following to s a y : In regard to Recommendation No. 3, of Past Grand Master HERIVEL. I And a splendid spirit of harmony among all the different branches of York Rite Masonry. No unseemly haste is being shown in soliciting for these degrees. We know our candidates are coming to us not m t h the intention of hurrj'ing through the Lodge and jumping to bodies of liigher degrees, they are being taught that .-Ancient Craft Masonry is the very soul of Freemasonry.
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—MEXICO.
405
We quote the following with a word of warning: In many Jurisdictions wlien applications for demits are made, same a r e granted or approved, but the "certificate" is not granted until the applicant has affiliated with another regular Lodge, and in the interim Provisional Certificates are issued, showing the standing of the petitioner. I recommend a similar method be adopted in our Jurisdiction. Wherk the petitioner has been elected and affiliated, then and then only is the regular Demit issued and sent to the Secretary of the Lodge receiving the new member, this demit in addition to having the names of the Lodge and signed by t h e Secretary with the seal of tlie Lodge should bear a notation, tliat the Lodge is a regular Lodge under the Jurisdiction of the York Grand Lodge signed by the Grand Secretary and bearing the seal of the York Grand Lodge. The plan of transferring membership in several of the states, based on the issuance of a certificate of good standing, is always confined to lodges within the jurisdiction where such certificates are issued and are not issed to brethren who desire to join a lodge in some other state or country. Therefore, if our Mexico brethren desire to adopt something of this kind we take the liberty of cautioning them against issuing certificates to be used in other countries or states, as it will cause extreme embarrassment. From the subject of "Masonry in France" we feel certain the following will be interesting to our own brethren because of the position taken by our Grand Lodge several years ago in declining to recognize any of the so-called Masonic Grand Bodies in France: In the degree work the candidate is sent to the Chamber of Reflection.. Among other questions he is asked, as an E. A. have you any religious belief? What is it? Do you practice your religion? Are you sure that the observance- ' of your religion is compatible with you participation in the work of Free-masonry? They also ask,—What do you understand of the character and' utility of marriage? What ol)ligatioiis are incumbent on a man by reason of his paternity after marriage? What do you think of abortion? What do youi think of infanticide? What do you consider is the duty of the parents to thechild? Especially as regards its education? Have they right to maltreat their child? Has the father and the mother the right to impose upon their child their opinions? Their religion? What do you thinlt of suicide? It is almost incredible to us that these should be considered as the tenets and principles of Masonry, but we can show the book and the questions as issued by the Grand Orient of France and in use today. Its a farce; its a profanation of the term Masonry. Yet this is -what the Scottish Kite Supreme Bodies of the United States fraternize with when they go to Europe every little while. In what they term Second Voyage they ask the candidate. Do you believe instruction (education) aids in the freedom of conscience? What do you think is the meaning of Freethinker? What is the Fatherland? What is a citizen? Has he natural rights or does he receive his rights through law? What do you think of duehng? Of the death penalty? Of War? etc. In the obligation of the E. A. they state,—On this book of the Freemasons Laws (Constitution) {sur ce livre de la Lot des francsmacons). Nowhere is t h e Holy name of " G O D " used or the Supreme Being. At anotlier part they refer to the fact that " A l t h o " wc do not admit actually (actuallement) any womeni for initiation in Masonry yet we honor them for their virtues and we love t o recall their memories. In the F. C. degree they ask the candidate what is t h e meaning of the letter " G . " He replies,—It is the monogram of gravitation, of
406
COBBESPONDENCE—MEXICO.
February,
geometry, of generation, of genius and of (gnose). So tiiis is Masonry in France. Some other day when there is more time I will give some further translations and explain the ceremonies as used in that Jurisdiction.
* * * * * * Teach them every day should be our day. Little acts of kindness, every day should be our aim. That, in the final test, is what counts. Its not the big duties that we are expected to perform, but the every day littles courtesies and kindnesses that take so little time and require so Utile energy. At home; in business; in the Lodge. Ttiey give a savour sweet and lasting to all we do, and create perfect contentment in our own bosoms. The balmy odour of sweet flowers is not more pleasing. Practice Little acts of kindness and your symbolic wages will soon grow larger. As you practice honesty in thouglit and deed,.good conduct, cleanliness in person and mind, learn to practice kindness also. Its power is great and the returns prodigious, for you will be Happy. All the Grand Jurisdictions now know that altho' they are sovereign and independent, yet they are also interdependent one with another. The exchanging of Representatives; the revision and observations on Fraternal Corresjpondenco; the conferring of degrees one for the other; the acceptance of demits •and certificates of membership; the relief given to worthy Brothers in distress: membership in the Masonic Relief-Association; the universal acceptance of the observance and adherence to the Ancient Landmarks and customs of the Craft; are gradually bringing about a certain standard which un\vritten is accepted •as the Law. We would fraternally refer the York Rite Grand Lodge to our 3'roceedings for 1919. The Proceedings contain a brief Report on Correspondence, but there seems to be no name attached to either the Alpha or Omega, and we are therefore unable to give credit to the compiler. • He reviews our 1924 Proceedings and from it we quote the following: In this a matter of great importance in Mexico. The Supreme Council A. A. S. R. has never acknowledged the absolute freedom of G. Lodges in fact. They have issued decrees to this effect but have never observed same. Whenever the S. Council 33rd., will refrain from interfering with Symbolic Masonry then Masonry will be, what it should be, free and sovereign, and its blue lodge members need not be afraid of losing their standing thru' some unmasonic interference of Scottish Rite Bodies. This is what the foreign element in Mexico has ever endeavored to make effective but so far they have been unable to do so. JOHN I. NEWELL, M . . W . ' . Grand Master, Tampico, Tamps. CHARLES I. ARNOLD, R . ' . W . ' . Grand Secretary, Mexico City. Next Annual, Mexico City. (No date given.)
MEXICO —1926. Lodges, 15; members, 907; net gain, 3. Mexico City, April 1; 1926. JOHN I. NEWELL, M . - . W . - . Grand Master. Our Grand Lodge was honored with the presence of M.'. W.\ J O H N I. NEWELL, Grand Master, as our Grand Representative. The following is taken from the preface to his address: Other Grand Lodges exist far outnumbering ours in subordinate Lodges and Individual membership. Long and firmly established, wealthy and re-
1926-27.
.
CORRESPONDENCE—MEXICO.
407
nowned, they serenly follow the paths their fathers trod before them, and from many of them we receive the hand of good fellowship and the word of good cheer, to speed us calmly on our way to the same Eternal Goal. Yet though few in numbers and unimposing in strength as we may seem to be, we have kept the faith and followed the precepts of Freemasonry through troubled times and upon all occasions. It is a fine thing to be a member of this Grand Jurisdiction, which has made its way safely through years of anxiety and of troubles,'without yielding to foes or whining to friends. It is flm^ t o ijnow that those who wish us well and esteem our labors grow daily more numerous, and that those who do not yet accord to us their full confidence are gradually inclining to do so. U n d e r t h e h e a d of " R e c o m m e n d a t i o n s " we notice one wherein their Sonora Lodge N o . 12 asked t h e G r a n d M a s t e r for a ruling in a case where a b r o t h e r holding a dimit from a lodge working u n d e r t h e jurisdiction of t h e G r a n d Lodge of Coahuila desired t o petition t h e i r lodge for m e m b e r s h i p . T h e G r a n d M a s t e r recommended t h a t his dimit be received a n d if elected t h e lodge should administer t o h i m t h e obligation of t h e T h r e e Degrees with an o a t h of affiliation u n d e r which he was t o swear allegiance a n d obedience to their G r a n d L o d g e . T h e m a t t e r was referred t o t h e C o m m i t t e e on Jurisprudence to s u b m i t a report a t t h e next A n n u a l C o m m u n i c a t i o n . B r o t h e r S T E P H E N M O T T A prepared t h e usual R e p o r t on Correspondence a n d from his introduction we are pleased t o q u o t e t h e following: Your Committee notes in many Jurisdictions a tightening-up in the care of financial matters,—the prompter payment of dues and the collection of amounts pending. A very large number it appears have been suspended for n. p. d. It is incredible how many "slack" members are in the Fraternity,—never paying until " d u n n e d " repeatedly. This is not right. So much is given for the small amount of dues, everyone should hasten to pay promptly each year. We know of Jurisdictions where the small amount of $4.00 or $5.00 is assessed for dues. An automobile ride costs almost that much. Why not give up such a small evanescent pleasure for one time in order to pay promptly the dues pending and help the Ijodges in their great and glorious work of building the House of the Lord. W e fail t o find a n y review of t h e Proceedings of t h e G r a n d Lodge of K a n s a s a n d we notice in his list of Proceedings reviewed t h a t K a n s a s . is omitted. T h e writer, who is likewise G r a n d Secretary, is a t a loss t o u n d e r s t a n d w h y a copy of t h e Proceedings of t h e G r a n d L o d g e of K a n s a s was n o t s u b m i t t e d t o t h e writer for a review as it is our c u s t o m t o send four copies of our Proceedings t o each G r a n d Jurisdiction. C. C. J A M E S , M.-.W.". G r a n d Master, Mexico City. C'. I . A R N O L D , R . - . W . ' . G r a n d Secretary, Mexico City.
408
CORRESPONDENCE—MICHIGAN.
• February,
MICHIGAN —1926. Lodges, 489; members, 146*255; net gain, 2,938. Kalamazoo, May 25, 1926.
ARTHUR J. Fox, M.-. W.-. Grand
Master. We are not often indined to quote the prayer offered by the Grand Chaplain, b u t we make an exception once in a while and the invocation offered by the Grand Chaplain of Michigan, Brother WILLIAM H . GALLAGHER, and who is our Grand Representative, is worthy of being quoted: Grant unto us. oh Lord, in all our problems, in all our charitable ventures, in all our difficulties, in all our deliberations, iJower to think, to say, and to do such things as are right; and may the words of our mouth, and the meditations of our hearts, be always acceiJtable not only in the sight of man, but in Thy sight, oh Lord, our strength and our Redeemer. Amen.
Preceding the address of the Grand Master we find a half-tone of that distinguished brother, but we do not consider the likeness as up to the standard. From the preface to his excellent address we take pleasure in quoting the following: You who are hero for the first time, we trust, will gather new ideas and a knowledge of the working of a Grand Lodge session, taking back with ycu a new spirit of your duties as members and officers of your respective lodges. We are here to render a report of our stewardsliip as officers for the past, and present such matters as are deemed best and "most useful for our Masonry diu-ing the coming years. The year has been 'an enjoyable one, although filled with strenuous duties, and if I have rendered some service which will be lasting to the Craft, and it has met with your approval, then I shall fool amply repaid for this busiest and happiest year in all my life.
During the year the Grand Master divided their jurisdiction into fifty-nine districts and appointed an equal number of personal representatives who were assigned the duty of visiting each lodge in their respective district and make due report on forms prepared for that purpose. This in effect is the same as our District Deputy system. Under, the head of. "Bequests for the Benefit of the Masonic Home" he reports having received a part of an offering made by RAYMOND BBARDSLEY, the total amount of which is about $135,000.00. They also received for the same purpose, through the estate of BENJAMIN GODKIN, a little more than $2'7,000.00.
In his conclusion he refers to the illness of their Grand Secretary during the year; however, we are pleased, to note that he is again enjoying good health and we trust will so continue for many years to come. The Grand Master concludes his excellent address with the beautiful words expressed by GEORGE W . EGAN, and which we take pleasure in quoting:
192B-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—MICHIGAN.
409
WHAT CAN WE DO? We cannot run this old world. We cannot change a law of the universe, nor control the planets as they roll in their orbits to the end of time. The glory of the sun and the grandeur of the stars are beyond our ken or comprehension. We cannot add to the fragrance of the rose nor detract from the beauty of the inmost tints of the lilac blossom. Witli nature and nature's GOD we poor weak creatures can little interfere, nor are we of much moment or consideration. But to the lives of our fellow men we are all in all. How much love, joy and sunshine, peace, happiness and glory, we could bring to the hearts of those about us if we could but try, if we could displace selfishness by generosity, slander by praise, lies by truth, hatred by love, and tear from our bosoms the demons of greed and jealousy, avarice and ignorace, we could make this old world a fit habitation for Goo's noblest handiwoi-k: and by lives of righteousness bring tears of joy to the eyes of Him who broke bread with beggars, slept in the bush and sweat blood in the garden of Gethscmane, that the thieves, crooks and grafters of this planet might have a chance for eternal life. T h e report of t h e Board of Control of their Masonic H o m e consumes twenty-eight pages of t h e Proceedings and is w o r t h y of t h e perusal of not only t h e m e m b e r s of t h e Craft in Michigan b u t likewise all who are interested in this wonderful work of charity. W e regret t h a t space will not p e r m i t of q u o t i n g practically t h e entire r e p o r t as a m a t t e r of information t o t h e Craft in general. Simply as a m a t t e r of suggestion t o our own lodges we take pleasure in quoting the following from t h e r e p o r t of t h e Committee on Jurisprudence: It is a regrettable fact that many of the constituent lodges In this Grand Jurisdiction do not fl.x the annual dues of the members at a sum which will provide for the actual expenses of the lodge. The By-Laws of every lodge should provide for the payment of sufliciont dues by its members to pay Its ruiming expenses, so that the degree fees can be used where IVlasonic law intends they shall be—for charit.v. It is the* common law of Masonry that fees received by constituent lodges for conferring degrees constitute a charitable fund and should be used for that purpose only. However, the law in this Grand Jurisdiction is well settled that a constituent lodge has the right to manage its own affairs provided it does not conflict with the law of Grand Lodge. Among other m a t t e r s we n o t e t h e adoption of t h e following, which would indicate t h a t our Michigan b r e t h r e n in Grand Lodge assembled t a k e formal action on requests for recognition from outside organizations predicating their m e m b e r s h i p on Masonic affiliation: No Mason within the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge shall promote or organize any order or society, nor'become a member of any order or. society hereafter ijromoted, organized, or established in this Grand Jurisdiction, whose qualification for membership shall be Masonic affiliation, unless such order or society shall have received the formal approval of this Grand Lodge. We have on our desk a list or more t h a n forty such organizations a n d if our Michigan b r e t h r e n are i n t e r e s t e d we would be pleased t o compare notes in order t h a t t h e y m a y give official consideration t o all these societies and t h e r e b y avoid a n y feeling of partiality.
410
CORRESPONDENCE—MICHIGAN.
February,
We are pleased t o find in these Proceedings not only a likeness of their faithful Grand Secretary, R.-. W/. Brother Lou B. WINSOR, but a well prepared biographical sketch, prepared and submitted to Grand Lodge by Past Grand Master GEORGE L . LUSK. It requires fourteen pages to record this wonderful record of Brother WiNSOR. We quote the following from the remarks made by Brother WINSOR when this sketch was submitted: Oh, my Brethren, there is a wealth of happy memories that come to me in connection with my Masonic life. But it is not because of all the Jewels that have been pinned upon my breast, or the Ust of honors, the reading of which has taken Past Grand Master LOSK about half an hour. But it is the many numerous friends that I have made in coming here year after year for these forty-four years (Applause). There are none here who were in the first session of Grand Lodge that I attended in the City of Kalamazoo forty-four years ago. The Grand Lodge at that time was composed of 38G members. I recently took occasion to check' them ui), for my own satisfaction, in order to see how many were still living. Out of the 386 members of the Grand Lodge at that time there is not a single Past Grand Master alive today; there is not a single Grand Lodge ofHcer of that time alive. Out of aU the 38G members that comprised that Grand Lodge there are just five now living, so that you can see that I am quite an old relic. The inmost recesses of my heart have been deeply touched tonight, and I am at a loss to know whether to try to dam up the tears that are in my voice and heart, or to let them flow. I am certainly very, very happy at this delightful ovation which you have accorded mo, my dear brethren. I do not feel that I am worthy of it, but it is my ambition, and the only ambition that I have in life, to render the very best service that is in me to our beloved Masonic Institutions. How much better it is to pay such honors to the living rather than to the dead; in other words, we are heartily in favor of placing the bouquets in the hands of the faithful who are yet alive rather than laying them on the casket. Brother WILLIAM H . GALLAGHER, Grand Chaplain, and who is likewise Chairman of the Committee on Obituaries, presented a most interesting report on that subject and we are pleased to quote the following: We are all going "hence," brethren; but whither are we going? Men are quarreling learnedly today about whence man came. Discussing instead of quarreling, I presume I should say; and yet. at the same time, the discussions seem to take on the character of a bitter controversy. No doubt it is really worth while to know whence and how we came. But surely our origin is not of as much consequence as our destiny. Whatever are now, or may be in the futxu-e, the dicta of scientists about the origin of man,—as far back as Ufe can be traced, always beyond that point leading Into the realms of the unknown, Into those mysterious regions beyond the ken of man, always, I say, back of that point stand the impressive, reverent, authoritative first words of Genesis —the Books of Origins—"In the beginning * * * GOD." Under an amendment to their laws each lodge hereafter is required to pay to the Grand Lodge before the 10th day of January each year, $1.00 on each person initiated, and for each Master Mason who is a
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—MICHIGAN.
4 H
m e m b e r of t h e lodge a t t h e close of t h e year, 25 cents for general expenses of t h e G r a n d Lodge; 40 cents for t h e m a i n t e n a n c e of t h e Masonic H o m e a n d Hospital, a n d 35 cents for outside relief, t o b e expended b y t h e Board of Control of t h e Masonic H o m e . We s u b m i t t h e above n o t only as a m a t t e r of information t o our own b r e t h r e n , b u t as a warning t h a t t h e time is n o t far d i s t a n t when our own G r a n d Lodge m u s t increase t h e a n n u a l per capita t a x . B r o t h e r W I L L I A M H . GALLAGHER, for t h e t h i r d time, presents t h e usual R e p o r t on Correspondence a n d in it we find an excellent review of our 1926 Proceedings. B r o t h e r GALLAGHER could n o t refrain from commenting on t h e half-tone of our nine appointive officers of t h e G r a n d Lodge as t h e y appear i n our 1926 Proceedings a n d tor t h e benefit of our b r e t h r e n whose faces are n o t in t h e " b a l d - h e a d e d " class, we q u o t e t h e following: A cut of the Appointive Grand OfBcors precedes, almost immediately, the record of those who arc to memory dear, but who have passed out of life, , Portraits of nine good looking men. The prevailing style with respect to hair on the face is in evidence, nearly all have "bald," faces. One, the Grand Junior Deacon sports a mustache; the Grand Pursuivant has mustache and chin whiskers. I t is questionable whether these hirsute appendages affect the mental capacity. W e m i g h t s a y as a m a t t e r of information t o B r o t h e r GALLAGHER t h a t our G r a n d P u r s u i v a n t , W.'. B r o t h e r F R A N C I S L . P I E R C E , who is a d o r n e d with a m u s t a c h e a n d chin whiskers, is one of our oldest a n d most faithful members in this jurisdiction a n d is now serviiig his t h i r t y - s i x t h consecutive year as Secretary of his lodge. H e is Secret a r y of t h e lodge of which t h e retiring G r a n d Master, M . . W.'. B r o t h e r LoucKS, is a member. B r o t h e r GALLAGHER concludes his r e p o r t in t h e following words; The Jurisdiction of Michigan is indebted to the Correspondent of Kansas for a most excellent review of its transactions as recorded in the Proceedings of 1925. Michigan's Correspondent takes a bit of Kansas' Correspondents praise to himself; for, after three years of experience at this new work, he is glad to refer to his first and second year as " M y salad days; when I was green in judgment." T o t h e above t h e writer can only say t h a t B r o t h e r GALLAGHER need offer no " I f I should chance t o fall below D E M O S T H E N E S a n d C I C E R O " as his work as G r a n d Chaplain, C h a i r m a n of t h e C o m m i t t e e on Necrology a n d writer of t h e R e p o r t on Correspondence shows conclusively t h a t he is t h e r i g h t m a n in t h e r i g h t place a n d a valuable m e m b e r of t h e Grand Lodge of Michigan. C H A R L E S A. DONALDSON, M . - . W . ' . G r a n d M a s t e r , G r a n d R a p i d s . L o u B . WiNSOR, R.-. W.'. G r a n d Secretary, G r a n d Rapids. W I L L I A M H . G A L L A G H E R , C o r r e s p o n d e n t , Allegan.
N e x t Annual, G r a n d R a p i d s , M a y 24, 1927.
412
CORRESPONDENCE—MINNESOTA.
February,
MINNESOTA —1926. Lodges, 304; members, 59,586; net gain, 1,494. St. Paul, January 20, 1926.
HAYDEN FRENCH, M . - . W . - . Grand
Master. Kansas was represented at this Communication by Brother MONTREVILLE J. BROWN.
The Grand Master in presenting his annual address had the following to say: The slow,- solemn, unceasing march of time has added another epoch to the centuries of the past,—another year that slowly but surely draws us nearer, ever nearer to the undiscovered country from whence no traveler returns, nearer to the celestial Lodge above, where our brethren have gone before us. What labor of Icvo,—what record of fraternal kindness,—of ])atriotism,— of loyalty to GOD, our Countr'y, our neighbor, our Fraternit.v, and oin' loved ones-has been added to the.old. perhaps musty pages of the past? Have we fuUlUed our solemn obligations to our brother, his mother, sister, daughter? Have we given honor to wiiom honor is due,—fraternal love to our brethren and kindred,—reverence to Almighty GOD,—comfort to the afliicted and those that mourn,—Charity to those In destitution and want,? My brethren, if we have deferred or neglected, in any way, the important duties which, as Masons, we are in duty bound to perform, then our whole duty is not done,—our spiritual temple is unfinished.—our working tools lie scattered upon the ground,—the roll of the workmen has been called, and some there be that have not answered.
Under "Lodge Publications" the Grand Master authorized the printing and promulgating of two Masonic periodicals. The term used by the Grand Master is to the effect that he "authorized" the pubHcation. We mention this as it is a httle out of the ordinary and the question might be raised as to the authority of a Grand Master to sponsor any business proposition. We note in the Grand Secretary's introduction to his report that this is the nineteenth effort.
We congratulate JOHN and hope that
he may be spared to submit many more reports to his Grand Lodge. Past Grand Master WALTER L . STOCKWELL of North Dakota was
present and spoke in behalf of the work of the Masonic Service Association of the United States. Brother STOCKWELL knows full well the views of the writer and the policy of our Grand Lodge, all of which are diametrically opposed to the carpet-bagging proposition in Freemasonry. This we emphasize by stating that our Grand Masters have repeatedly refused to allow brethren such as Brother STOCKWELL to
talk on this subject before our Grand Lodge as we deem it an outside organization and that we have no right, as a Grand Lodge, to extend recognition or lend support to any of these numerous orders, organizations and societies predicating their membership on Freemasonry. Brother LuciAN H. BUGBEE delivered an interesting talk before
the Grand Lodge and we take pleasure in quoting the foUowng:
1926-27.
CoBBESPONDENCE—MISSISSIPPI.
413
In every nature there are two windows. One of them opens out upon the fair and lovely garden of the soul full of shelter and of fountains, where long vistas of truth and beauty stretch away to blend with the ideal. Here have sat all the good, the wise and the great of human history, for it is the window of inspiration. Here sat MOSES when he caught his vision splendid of divine ideals—the pattern shown him on the mount, which he embodied in the codes and legislation of his people. Here sat JOHN, the seer of Patmos, when he dreamed of that city "which four-square lieth above the mists and fogs andclouds of earth, toward which we turn our eager faces to taste its joys and hear its holy mirth."
Here sat HOMEB and DANTE and MILTON and SHAKESPEARE
when they heard words pacing along the old Appian Way of eloquence. Here sat MICHAEL ANGELO when there crowded into his mind the daring and brilliant conceptions which he chiseled in marble and flung in color upon the walls and ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. As Masons we have all lingered here as we sat in the tiled recesses of the Lodge and watched the work of the order which embodies, Uke pictures on the screen, the symbols and Ideals of life's deepest significance. But beautiful as all this may be, there is that other window which looks out upon the noisy, busy street of human life, where the cry of the dependent and oppressed, the plea of lonely little children, the stifled sob of the aged and broken hearted smite up against our ears. "We may be enraptured with our vision. We may deny any man's right to rob us of that vision. We may lock the door and bar the windows but these ceaseless cries of human need and pain and weariness will smite through all our selfishness. They will not let us be. B r o t h e r E D M U N D A. MONTGOMERY presents t h e usual R e p o r t on Correspondence, including a reference t o our 1925 Proceedings. W e rise, however, t o correct B r o t h e r M O N T G O M E R Y in his s t a t e m e n t t h a t t h e differences b e t w e e n K a n s a s a n d N e w H a m p s h i r e h a v e been adjusted. If h e will again refer t o t h e r e p o r t of G r a n d M a s t e r S T R A I N a n d t h e special r e p o r t of t h e undersigned, as C h a i r m a n of t h e C o m m i t t e e on Correspondence, h e will find t h a t t h e differences were n o t a d j u s t e d ; however, we did again offer t h e h a n d of b r o t h e r l y love b u t as usual it was refused b y our N e w H a m p s h i r e b r e t h r e n . A L B E R T F . PRAY, M . - . W . ' . Grand Master, Minneapolis. J O H N P I S H E L , R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary, St. Paul. E D M U N D A. M O N T G O M E R Y , C o r r e s p o n d e n t ,
Minneapolis.
N e x t A n n u a l , St. P a u l , J a n u a r y 19, 1927.
MISSISSIPPI —1926. Lodges, 3 8 8 ; m e m b e r s , 35,500; n e t gain, 800. M e r i d i a n , F e b r u a r y 2 3 , 1926.
THOMAS Q . E L L I S ,
M.-.W.-.Grand
Master. P r e l i m i n a r y exercises were held presided over b y B r o t h e r J A M E S F . H I L L , S u p e r i n t e n d e n t , Meridian M a s o n i c H o m e . T h e p r o g r a m consisted of vocal a n d i n s t r u m e n t a l music, addresses a n d t h e like.' T h e address of welcome extended t o t h e G r a n d Lodge on behalf of t h e local lodge is quite interesting a n d we t a k e pleasure i n q u o t i n g t h e following:
414
CORRESPONDENCE—MISSISSIPPI.
February.
We have a Masonic Temple where the Blue lodges, York Kite bodies and Order Eastern Star meet and we claim that ours are the prettiest lodge rooms in the whole South—we cordially invite you to visit them as they will be open at all hours for inspection. After mentioning all other Masonic institutions of which wc are justly proud, I now want-to call your attention to something, that is dear to t h e heart of each and every Mason in the state, and that is our beautiful Masonic Home for girls. This afternoon you will have an opportunity of visiting t U s wonderful institution where you will be accorded a hearty welcome and you may see for yourself what those two noble characters. Brother and Sister HiLi.., are accomplishing with our girls. Brother ROBERT W . HINTON, J R . , the Representative of the Grand Lodge of Kansas, was present. The address of the Grand Master is termed "Roses and T h o r n s " . . Rather unusual; however, as will be noted from quotations from his interesting address the term is quite appropriate. In the preface to his address he. has the following to say: In this city where true Fraternity and its by-product, hospitality, seem indeed to be at Meridian height, it is my great pleasure to welcome you to this the One Hundred Eighth annual communication of our Grand Lodge. To our Past Grand Masters—Masonry's war horses; to our active Grand Officers—Masonry's masterpiece of human machinery; to our representatives of subordinate lodges—Masonry's Hope; and to the visiting brethren within our gates—our guests, I would say: You're You're You're You're You're
as welcome as the sunshine that drives the clouds away, as welcome as the restful night that ends the restless day. as welcome as the dew drops that kiss the flow'rs to Ufe, as welcome as the kindly words that end the bitter strife. as welcome as the wife's deep sleep when lodge don't close 'till late— (The good old, nice old, friendly clock that stops at half past eight.) Then just call up all the welcomes that memory's tho'ls will lend And they're but half the welcomes we here to you extend.
Betuming t o my home one year ago with the duties and responsibilities of the office of Grand Master resting heavily upon me, but m t h a light heart thrilled with a prophetic vision of the busiest and happiest year of my life, my gaze fell upon FRANK L . STAUNTON'S happy lines: "This old world we're livin' in Is mighty hard t o beat; 'Tis true the roses have their thorns, But ain't the roses sweet?" He refers to the death of their Past Grand Master, Brother ALFRED H . BAYS, J. J. HARALSON, a member of the Board of Directors of the Masonic Homes, and Brother GEORGE T . TEUNISSON, a member of their Board of Custodians. At the conclusion of his reference to the brethren who laid down the working tools of Masonry during the year he had the following to say: In this moment of sad reflection one might be prompted to classify as Thorns, the official acts accompanying the realization and recognition of this exacting toll of the all-devouring Scy the of Time. But when comes the wonderful thought that the privilege was ours to enjoy with some of them an association
1926-27.
GOBBESPONDENCE—MISSISSIPPI.
.415
intimate enough to ripen into deep, rich friendships; when we realize that each was OUR BROTHER, and that even as we mourn their going we are conscious of their presence by influence and good works that cannot die; when our faith in Immortality is strengthened by that communion of spirits which the materiaUst can no more experience than he can understand—LO! these experiences are beautiful ROSES. Good judgment was shown in the following words under the head of "Letters of Introduction from Grand Master": I declined to write a letter of introduction to officers of subordinate lodges, to be presented by the Secretary of the Natchez Protestant Orphans' Home, in connection with the solicitation of fimds for that homo. Although not Intended directly as such, it would nevertheless have had the efl'ect of an appeal from the Grand Master, which procedtu'e would have been irregular. W e congratulate t h e G r a n d Master in his good j u d g m e n t dealing-with t h e subject of " I t i n e r a n t L e c t u r e r s " as shown b y t h e following,which was a p p r o v e d b y t h e G r a n d Lodge: My attention was directed to the activities of a zealous, though misguided brother, who had established schools of instruction in the ritualistic work, in several lodges, requesting me to officially recognize his schools, a n d , authorize him to issue certificates of proficiency in the work—or to recommend that the Grand Lodge do tliis. After a thorough investigation which included a personal Interview with this brother and with Masons in the affected district, I ordered the discontinuance of these schools. I had discovered conflict and its accompanying confusion in the introduction of a system other fhan that recognized by the Grand Lodge, viz. " T h e Deputy system" which unquestionably has brought order out of chaos so far as uniformity of the work is concerned—• the result of many years of sacrificial service rendered by our Grand Lecturers and their faithful deputies. I ruled that any brother who travels and lectures, imless identified with our recognized system, violates Section 36 of the By-Laws which forbid itinerant lecturers. He was requested to make a ruling on the question as to whether a team designated as "Scottish Rite Blue Lodge T e a m " could visit other lodges for the purpose of conferring either of the three degrees. His answer was as follows: No. Fraternal visitations, including the conferring of degrees, one lodge for another, are inspirational and deserving of encouragement, but such activities should have their origin and inception in the Lodge only and should be under direct supervision of Lodge officers using their regular Lodge Teams. Such visitations should have as their objective only the promotion of interest In so called "Blue Lodge" Masonry and should not have in view—even as a secondary consideration, actively or by implication—the promotion of interest In any other Rite or Body. We believe the time is now at hand when the members of the "Round Table" should give careful consideration to this very subject, as these so-called Scottish Rite Teams are notably on the increase throughout the land, not excepting our own jurisdiction. It is a well known fact t h a t their object is to solicit petitions for the Scottish Rite degrees. The principle is wrong if we as Craft Masons are to practice those things taught by the fathers.
416
CORRESPONDENCE—MISSISSIPPI.
February.
He was asked whether it was proper to hold a dance in any part of a Temple or building used by the lodge. The following is his answer: No. While Masonry does not attempt to shape the opinion or convictions of any brother with reference to this form of entertainment, true Masonic principle and practice accord respect to the convictions of any portion of Its membership, where disregard and disrespect for such convictions would not in the least serve to advance or promote the best interests of the Institution. H e s u b m i t s a brief b u t very i n t e r e s t i n g r e p o r t concerning their M a s o n i c H o m e s a t Meridian a n d C o l u m b u s . I n this r e p o r t he s t a t e s t h a t their lodges were called upon for a C h r i s t m a s d o n a t i o n a n d t h e s u m t o t a l of these offerings was a l m o s t $5,000.00. A wonderful collection a n d t h e good b r e t h r e n of Mississippi are t o be c o n g r a t u l a t e d on their generosity a n d we t h i n k it would be well for some of t h e o t h e r jurisdictions t o read this portion of t h e a d d r e s s of G r a n d M a s t e r ELLIS.
W e a r e pleased t o quote his conclusion w h i c h is as follows: Brethren, the record is before you; it stands, as such, for all time. No word or act of mine can change it. Thus far we have travelled over its rather stumbling course, and have discovered no THORNS! If any part of it is worthy of your commendation, then indeed beautiful roses will have become more fragrant and more beautiful. If, on the other hand this record, or any part of Its, fails to merit your approval, your frown will be the frown of Justice, and bacli of it will be that same spirit of Brotherhood that Is productive of smiles, and such frowns do not niake Thorns of Hoses, but rather, FADED ROSES. Then can it be that the sagos and poets were mistaken? Do all roses really have their thorns? Brethren, I surrender the gavel, disappointed in that I have been unable to render service commensurate with the great trust reposed in me—AH! A THOEN AT LAST! So much I should like to have done— so little I was really able to do—MORE THORNS! Our present relationship is soon to cease; 'tis the decree of Time. This thought might produce a Thorn but for the fact that yonder in the Grand West is a man's man, and never has the mantle of authority fallen upon broader shoulders; never has that mantle been more worthily worn than when It shall grace the form of him whom I have learned to love with all the ability given me to love. And from the Grand South there comes another one of GOD'S noblemen to whom honor came as a reward of service. I wonder if I shall ever be able to make him realize just what his friendship, "liis counsel, his words of commendation have meant to me during this, the most trying year of my life. Yes, my great love for our Fraternity and my great joy in the knowledge that the gavel of authority is so soon to be wielded by such as they make the experience of my passing, a BEAUTIFUL ROSE, and I repeat with STAUNTON: "This old world we're U^in' in Is mighty hard to beat; 'Tls true the roses have their thorns, • B u t ain't the roses sweet? " Brother W. 0 . WALKER presented the usual Report on Corres-
pondence which includes a review of our 1925 Proceedings. He refers to Grand Master STRAIN'S report on "Lodge Trials" the outcome of
which is shown through the report of a Special Committee in our 1926. Proceedings. Through this report, which was adopted, all lodge trials are held before a commission and the lodge is not permitted to hear
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the testimony or evidence as to the guilt or innocence of the brother who has been charged. He also refers to Grand Master STRAIN'S reference to "Physical
Qualifications" and we likewise refer him to our 1926 Proceedings, in which we have settled, for all time, this question. JOHN R . TALLY, M.-.W.-. Grand Master, Hattiesburg. EDWARD L . FAUCETTE, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Meridian. H. C. YAWN, P . ' . G . ' . M . - . , Correspondent, Lumberton.
Next Annual, Hattiesburg, February 15, 1927.
MISSOURI —1925. Lodges, 662; m e m b e r s , 111,969; n e t gain, 2,072. St. Joseph, October 27, 1925. O R E S T E S M I T C H E L L , M . - . W . - . G r a n d Master. Among t h e n u m b e r of distinguished guests we note t h e G r a n d Masters of A r k a n s a s a n d Iowa, also t h e G r a n d M a s t e r of t h e G r a n d Council, G r a n d High Priest of t h e G r a n d C h a p t e r a n d G r a n d C o m m a n d e r of t h e G r a n d C o m m a n d e r y , a n d R.-.E.-. Sir ISAAC H . H E T TINGER, G r a n d Senior W a r d e n of t h e G r a n d E n c a m p m e n t of K n i g h t s T e m p l a r of t h e United S t a t e s of America, together with M.-. P.-. B E R T S. L E E , General G r a n d M a s t e r of t h e General G r a n d Council of t h e United States. We are pleased t o quote t h e following from t h e preface t o t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s address: The work outlined upon the Trestle Board was for good; the outlines were traced there in the dim long ago, and have been transmitted down through the generations by a kindly Providence for our use in uplifting and bringing happiness to mankind, and for us to preserve and pass on to the generations yet unborn. How well I have wrought, J cannot say, but this I do know: I would be happier at this the close of my term of office, if I had been able to render much greater service than I have, and if I but knew that my feeble efforts have resulted in a little good. Freemasonry, throughout the ages, has been a great steadying agency in the affairs of men and nations. It has always advocated the highest ideals for the guidance of its initiates in both private and public life, and it must have had a beneficent influence on mankind, or it could and would not have sur^ v e d the assaults of the ages, during which great empires have risen and fallen and have been almost forgotten. Its siu'vlval and growth is no doubt attributable to the fact that it is builded upon a solid rock—Reverence for GOD—its first great attribute. Its second great attribute is advocating that every man is in truth his brother's keeper—the brotherhood of man. It is therefore a great apostle of right living, charity, kindness, tolerance and love. Its beneficent results are obtained by conservative thinking and acting, free from radicalism. Freemasonry naturally stands for good citizenship and work. There is always work for the good citizen to do. The field of endeavor is boundless— ' in the church, school, community, state and nation. Organized society and constitutional government depend upon the thoughful and conservative citizen
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for their organization, support and preservation. are also thus protected.
February,
The liberties of the people
1 believe in the United States of America as a government of the people, by the people, for the people; whose just powers are derived from the consent of the governed; a democracy in a republic; a sovereign nation of many sovereign states; a perfect union, one and inseparable; established upon those principles of Freedom, Equality, Justice and Humanity for which American patriots sacrificed their lives and fortunes. I therefore believe it Is my diity to my country to love it; to support Its Constitution; to obey its laws; t o respect Its flag; and to defend it against all enemies.
Considerable of the Grand Master's address Is devoted to the subjects of Flag Day, Public'Schools, Masonic Service Association in the United States, George Washington Masonic National Memorial and DeMolay. M.-. W.'. Brother JOSEPH SHELBY MCINTYRE was appointed as a
special representative of the Grand Master in making a visit to England and from his report to the Grand Master we quote the following:" This annual investiture is very formal, rather long drawiifout, and most impressive. Only two Grand Lodge Officers are elected, the'Grand Master and the Grand Secretary, while all the remaining ones are appointed by the Grand Master. The present Grand Master, an uncle to the King, is' serving his twenty-flfth year. The investiture consists of the announcement by the Grand Director of Ceremonies of the name of the appointee, together with a recital of all his Masonic honors, political and social titles: the investment with the badge or jewel of that particular office, and t h e proclamation of the Grand Master. There are sixty-one officers of the United Grand Lodge of England, of whom six are Senior Grand Deacons, six are Junior Grand Deacons, and tw^elve are Assistant Grand Directors of Ceremonies. In addition to the regular officers, the Grand Master announced a list of sixty-eight on whom honorary ranks had been conferred this year. These honorary ranks ranged from Past Grand Warden to Past Grand Pursuivant. The entire proceeding required almost two hours. We then repaired to the ba,nquet hall, where for two hours more I enjoyed the good food, the'appropriato toasts, rare humor and common sense talks. An address was delivered by R.\ W.\ Brother HAROLD L . REEDER
and from it we quote the following: For you and me, who live In this present generation. It Is difficult to realize that there ever was a time when t o be known as a member of the Craft was to be branded as somebody undesirable. However, we need to remind ourselves that we are enjoying the privileges of Freemasonry because those who went before us blazed a trail through a trackless forest, and encountered and overcame obstacles that threatened, at times, the very existence of the fraternity. We are here tonight not through any inalienable right; we are here because that privilege has been granted to us by brethren who exemplified to society the principles of sacrificial living. And in the deep recesses of our souls there well up feelings of gratitude t h a t we are permitted to follow In this noble succession. Over one hundred years of history in this State have demonstrated the fact that there is no external force or institution which is capable of overthrowing this great fraternity. Men may misunderstand her, as they have In the past;
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men may malign her, as they have in days gone by; men may misrepresent her:, as they have in previous years; but like an impregnable fortress she rears her head to the heavens impervious to the attaclis of.external influences. An'd Freemasonry lives today, a permanent Institution for righteousness, because of her basic fundamentals. It is my purpose, therel|ore. Most Worshipful Grand Master, to consider, in a brief way, these Masonic Fundamentals, To one who has studied the history of the Craft; ,to one who has experienced the thrill wliich comes from sympathetic contact with Ins brethren in the work of the Fraternity, it is quite apparent that the first great fundamental, the first statement in our creed, is an unfeigned belief in.the one living and true GOD. " I believe in GOD the Father Almighty, .Maker of Heaven and Earth" can be enunciated sincerely by every honest man who'has pledged liis allegiance to the tenets of Freemasonry. Whatever may be our Church afllliations; whatever may be the content of our religious thinking; whatever may be our conception of creed or conduct, we. as Ancient Craft Masons, believe in GOD. We believe in the Supreme Architect 'of the Universe; we believe in the Master Overseer of Life; we believe in the Qrand High Priest of Heaven and Earth. We believe in the Supreme Architect—in Him Who draws upon the trestle board the plan of our individual life and the life of our Institution, and who, by the Omniscience of His power, is able to see the completed temple before the cedars are felled, or the stones he^vn from the quarries. We believe in the Master Overseer—in Him before Whoni every craftsman must; stand to be adjudged as to his workmanship in the Quarry of' Life, whether it be good work and true work, and whether he who wrought it is entitled to wages. We believe in the Grand High Priest of Heaven and Earth—in Him Who stands personally for His people in the Holy of Holies, making atonement for the children of men.
Belief in GOD, belief in vital friendship between men—these are not only fundamental, they are also apparent to the members of the Craft. There are other credal beliefs, however, which are basic to our great Institution", which are not so apparent to the rank and file of the Craft, and yet they are vital to the very life of the Fraternity. And so, as the tliird fundamental of Freemasonry I suggest this: we believe in the right of every man to worship GOD according to the dictates of his own conscience. We cannot, we dare not impose on any man the mode or the form of his reverent attitude toward the Supreme IBeing. As Freemasonry is not a political forum, nor a social clubj nor an organization requiring degrees of wealth or education, neither is it a religious cult. And he who claims such for it is egregiously in error as to our laws and constitutions. Freemasonry is a fraternity founded upon truth, and the breadth of its charity, and the depth of its philosophy and the permanency of its far-flung influence are exemplified by the fact that around our sacred Altar may kneel together Protestant and Jew and he who claims no religious afliliation. One of the darkest pages in the annals of history is that which depicts man's inhumanity to man in the realm of religious toleration. How si range it is that those who, on the one hand, have been so zealous for their own individual religious convictions, have been, on the other hand, so Intolerant of those who did not happen to share tlieir belief. JOHN CALVIN was one of the outstanding characters of the Sixteenth Centiu'y, and a greatreligious reformer; yet JOHN CALVIN was guilty of burning SEKVETUS at the stake near Geneva, because SEKVETUS dared to worship GOD according to the dictates of his own conscience. MABTIN LUTHER was the father of the Reformation and protestantism; yet MARTIN LUTHER persecuted Protestants in Germany who dissented from his views. The Netherlands unitedly repelled the persecutions of the Catholic PHILLIP II, and then began the dissensions in which men of opposing views religiously among the Protestants fought one another. PRINCE MAURICE leading one section which put to death the venerable
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February,
JOHN BARNEVELDT and sent to prison the Netherlands' greatest historian, H0GO GROTIOUS, upon the charge that he supported religious toleration. England kept JOHN BUNYAN in prison for twelve long years because he would , not support the established Cliurch. And the most shameful page in American history is that which records the persecution of honest citizens because they dared to worship GOD according to the dictates of their own conscience. We, as Ancient Craft Masons, fundamentally believe in the right of every man to worship GOD after the dictates of his own conscience. An o r a t i o n was delivered b y B r o t h e r J O H N F . C A S K E Y a n d space will only p e r m i t of q u o t i n g t h e following: • T will tell you what we need in America' it is an appreciation of the fact that the purpose of law is to provide the largest liberty for us all. There is no use for us to beguile ourselves into thinking that law is something that takes away men's liberties. Law is sometliing to aid in providing the privileges of liberty for all men; not a few men. And we are never going to check the wave of lawlessness that is in our country until we, and men Hire us, stand up and say that we will obey the law; and if it happens to be a law that is unwise it will pass the way of all the other chaff and straw and dust, but that which is just and true and right will abide. And we will be stronger because we have been courageous enough to even personally inconvenience ourselves in obedience to it. One y e a r ago t h e G r a n d Lodge ordered t h a t notice be served on t h e Masonic Service Association of t h e U n i t e d States t h a t t h e G r a n d Lodge of. Missouri w i t h d r e w their m e m b e r s h i p . Five m e m b e r s of t h e G r a n d Lodge, with t h e G r a n d M a s t e r as Chairman, c o n s t i t u t e d a c o m m i t t e e t o a t t e n d a meeting of t h e Masonic Service Association i n St. Louis, b u t for some reason withheld serving t h e notice ordered b y t h e G r a n d L o d g e , a n d we q u o t e t h e following report m a d e b y t h e m a t this C o m m u n i c a t i o n : While we were empowered under certain conditions to withdraw the notice of our withdrawal as a Grand Lodge from membership in the association, yet as we were not a unit as to the expediency of. such action, we now refer the question of our membership in the Masonic Service Association of the United States back to the Grand Lodge for its action. We wonder if our Missouri b r e t h r e n were influenced in a n y w a y b y t h e presence of M.'. W.'. B r o t h e r A N D R E W L . R A N D A L L , who was
present a t this C o m m u n i c a t i o n , as we notice no action was t a k e n , either t o a d o p t or reject their r e p o r t . F r o m t h e report of t h e C o m m i t t e e on Jurisprudence we q u o t e t h e following by-law as a m a t t e r of interest t o our readers: Masonic Emblems and the Word Masonic—Use of Prohibited. Any Freemason using the word "Masonic" or any other term, sign or symbol of Freemasonry for commercial or other business enterprises, shall be deemed guilty of un-Masonic conduct; provided, that this section shall not apply to Masonic books, journals or periodicals or a legitimate trade in Masonic supplies, ornaments or jewelry; and, provided, that any Freemason engaged in the business of publishing any Masonic book, journal or periodical who permits the printing of any advertisement in any such publication, using the word "Masonic" or any other term, sign or symbol of a Freemason for commercial or other business enterprises, the use of which is prohibited by the Grand Lodge By-Laws, shall be deemed guilty of un-Masonic conduct.
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421
The Report on Correspondence was presented by Brother ARTHUR MATHER and we are under obhgations for a fraternal reference to our 1925 Proceedings; however, we would correct him in referring to our M.-.W.'. Brother LouCKS being re-elected. The Grand Master for the present year (1926) is M.-.W.-. JOHN W . NEILSON of Concordia; Brother LOUCKS served in 1925 and Brother STRAIN in 1924. WILLIAM W . MARTIN, M.-.W.-. Grand Master, Doniphan. FRANK R . JESSE, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, St. Louis. ARTHUR MATHER, Correspondent, Ferguson. Next Annual, St. Louis, October 26, 1926.
MONTANA—1925. Lodges, 133; members, 19,975; net gain, 88. Missoula, August 19, 1925. HARLON L . HART, M . - . W . ' . Grand Master. M.-.W.-. Brother ROBERT J. HATHAWAY, the representative of Kansas, was present. Brother WILLIAM H . BEACOM, mayor of. the city of Missoula, delivered the address of welcome to the Grand Lodge and from it we quote the following: Words cannot express how wonderfully pleased I am to have this privilege. Is there any person who would dare to suggest that it is not possible that MISSOULA might some day be the Hub of the Universe! We arrive here in t h e morning and we look out on the sides of Old Jumbo, and we see the dewdrops. sparkling as diamonds upon the opening flowers. We look across this beautiful valley, rich in nature's golden harvest,— look where you may, and you will, find it everywhere. There is something in the atmosphere in this community that seems to get hold of men, and it is a good thing to see Doctor SPOTTSWOOD. and Father HARRINGTON going down the street arm in arm; a filial feeling t h a t we all enjoy. Now, in eventide, when the sunset glows with rubies, we ask you to. look to the western horizon and see the grandest sunset that was ever seen in any country. The boast of that sunset! Nowhere else in the world have I ever seen such coloring as the Supreme Architect spreads tipon the western horizon. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r consumed b u t little space in t h e Proceedings in presenting his address t o G r a n d Lodge as b u t eleven lines were used, a n d t h e y consist in extending a welcome t o t h e b r e t h r e n a n d directing a t t e n t i o n t o t h e program before t h e m a t t h i s C o m m u n i c a t i o n . Therefore we h a v e n o t h i n g t o quote from t h a t portion of his address. U n d e r " C o n d i t i o n of t h e C r a f t " he had. t h e following t o s a y : • Recently there have been an unusually large number of suspensions for non-payment of dues. Had all the Lodges been doing their positive duty in the past few years and suspending members for this reason at the proper time, there would not have been such an accumulation this year and the year's record would have made a better appearance. This Grand Jurisdiction has
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February >
experienced what practically all Jurisdictions have experienced in the past few years, especially the year following the war, when we added to our roster mernbers that we were unable to assimilate. We acquired members but not in all cases Master Masons. Tliis year the reaction has taken place. Your Grand Master is not alarmed however; this condition will adjust itself, as Jhe numerous suspensions recently will indicate. After all, what we have . always strived for is quality and not quantity. "We must forever bear in mind that the value and usefulness of our beloved fraternity does not depend upon numerical strength so much as upon the character of the individuals that compose it.
He seems perfectly satisfied with the action of their Grand Lodge concerning brethren petitioning for other degrees, as indicated in the following few words: It has been surprising and at the same time very satisfying to me during the year, to hear the remarks of Brethren in all parts of the State, expressing their delight that this Grand Lodge took the action it did requiring all Brothers to wait one year after being raised to the degree of Master Mason before applying for further degrees. Personally, I would regret to see tills Grand Lodge ever rescind this action and believe that if the proposition to repeal the law was ever ' submitted to a vote of the Masons of Montana it would be defeated by an overwhelming majority. H e refers t o t h e bequests of their P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r >CL.*RK, in t h e following words:
Brother
I would be remiss in my duty were I not to make mention of the princely •gift of our departed Past Grand Master, M.'. W .•. Brother \VM. A. CDARK. who5 bequeathed to this Grand Lodge the sum of 325,000.00, to be invested in -safe securities and the interest derived therefrom to be used in the maintenance «of our Masonic Home.'
As a word of caution he had the following to say: I t has been called t o my attention that certain Lodge Secretaries have piade a practice of advising Chapters of the Eastern Star of the suspension of Brothers for non-payment of dues. While we love, respect and appreciate that worthy institution and should do all that we can to promote their good .^ork, please do not forget that this would be properly termed an offense and be just cause for report to the Grand Lodge and subsequent strenuous action py that body. This is one of the matters, secrets of Masonry if you please, that has no place outside of your Lodge room. In November I was asked by the Master of one of our Lodges if it was permissible for the Lodge as a body to.attend Divine Worship wearing Masonic regalia, tills Lodge having been invited to do so by the Pastor of a church. I replied that it was not permissible. There appears to be nothing in our regulations pertaining to this matter and I therefore take this opportunity of cautioning the Lodges.
Through a resolution presented to Grand Lodge the following amendment to their laws was adopted: BE IT RESOLVED, that a section to be numbered 17a be added to Article I I I of the Penal Statutes, the same to read as follows: A member of a Lodge in this Jurisdiction who shall have been convicted of a. felony in any State or Federal Court shall be deemed suspended from all the
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rights and privileges of Masonry as of the date of the entry of the flnal judgment of his conviction. He shall not be re-instated to any of the rights and privileges of Masonry within one year from the date of his release from imprisonment pursuant to the judgment, and then only after his -appUcation for restoration to membership, reference of the application to, and report by, an investigating committee, and a unanimous ballot in his favor by the Lodge of "vvhich he was a member when suspended. If the Lodge be then In existence; if the Lodge be defunct, then he may be restored to the rights and privileges of Masonry only by the unanimous vote of the Grand Lodge in his favor. This section is retroactive as well as prospective in operation.
The Grand Lodge proposes to be rather strict in the matter of issuing proxies for Grand Lodge as will be noted by the following, which was adopted: "Whenever the Master, Senior Warden or Junior Warden of a Lodge cannot attend the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge, he may grant a proxy in writing to some member of such Lodge to act in his stead, but he must issue the proxy at least two days prior to the Annual Communication, notifying the other officers of granting the proxy. W e find a n excellent likeness, accompanied b y t h e u s u a l m e m o r i a l , of their late M / . W.-. Brother WILLIAM A. CLARK and R.". W / . CORNELIUS HEDGES, J R .
The Report on Correspondence was prepared by M.\ W.'. Brother H. S. HEFNER and we are grateful to him for a fraternal review of our
1925 journal. He adds an "Amen" word for the position taken by the Grand Lodge of Ka.nsas in the New Hampshire matter. EDWARD W . SPOTTSWOOD, M . ' . W : ' . Grand Master, Missoula. LUTHER T . HAUBERG, R.'. W . \ Grand Secretary, Helena. H. S. HEFNER, P.-. G.-. M.-., Correspondent, Helena.
Next Annual, Butte, August 18, 1926.
NEBRASKA—1926. Lodges, 291; members, 40,937; net gain, 650. Omaha, June 8, 1926. JOHN WRIGHT, M . - . W . - . Grand Master.
As an item of news to our readers we observe that the Deputy Grand Master opens the Grand Lodge in " D u e Form," after which the Grand Chaplain offers the usual invocation, and then the Grand Master is introduced, received with the Grand Honors and takes his station. We are unable to find anything in these Proceedings indicating whether our Grand Representative was in attendance at this Communication or not. The Grand Master in submitting his annual address, among other things, had the following to offer: How swiftly passes time and how.suddenly we find even the busiest year of our life drawing to a close. In accordance with the established custom W8
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February,
are assembled in this the sixty-ninth annual communication of our dearly beloved Grand fjodge. We are met to again acknowledge to the Supreme Architect of the Universe the loving care and guidance which has directed all our affairs; to again mingle one with another and by precept and example to encourage the brotherhood of man, to again renew the vows and to again pledge our faith and allegiance to the performance of every obligation which we as Masons owe to all mankind.
* * * * * * Early in my Masonic career I conceived a great respect and a loving regard for the men who were in the early days instrumental in providing for this Grand Jurisdiction a substantial and lasting institution. Their msdom, valor, and foresight have been emphasized on many occasions during the past year and it has been my jjleasurc to recommend to many of the brethren the continuance of the examples they have left for us. A m o n g t h e several r e c o m m e n d a t i o n s m a d e we notice one proposing a m e t h o d of transfer.of m e m b e r s h i p b y m e a n s of certificates of good s t a n d i n g or something of t h e Itind, until t h e brother has been elected a n d t h e n t h e regular dimit is issued. This subject goes over for a n o t h e r y e a r . If our good b r e t h r e n of N e b r a s k a care to enter i n t o t h e fild of transfer of membership in t h i s w a y we will be pleased to furnish t h e m a copy of our law on this subject, which is t h e outcome of n u m e r o u s changes, a n d we believe it is as nearly perfect ES it is possible t o m a k e this system of transfer, a l t h o u g h t h e writer with m a n y of our m e m b e r s of Grand Lodge is opposed to a n y such ] Ian of changing m e m b e r s h i p from one lodge t o a n o t h e r . We are eld ftshioned enough t o believe t h a t an honest a n d u p r i g h t Mason need have no fear of p r e s e n t i n g his dimit where a c h a r g e of m e m b e r s h i p is desired. U p o n his recommendation t h e G r a n d Lodge is to issue a card form of receipt. K a n s a s has issued an official receipt for a great m a n y years, b u t i t is not recognized b y t h e G r a n d Lodge of N e w H a m p s h i r e . We therefore w a r n our N e b r a s k a b r e t h r e n t h a t should any of their m e m b e r s a t t e m p t to visit a lodge in t h a t jurisdiction, using their official card form of receipt, t h e y m a y receive t h e same t r e a t m e n t we did in K a n s a s when our b r e t h r e n were denied admission t o N e w H a m p shire lodges. N o , K a n s a s is not in fraternal relations with N e w H a m p shire. I n concluding his address t h e G r a n d M a s t e r h a d t h e following t o say: Finally, my brethren, let us all see to it that we continue to practice by precept and e.'cample, the great tenets of our Masonic profession, let us resolve here and now as never before to stand to and abide by, to help, aid and assist every worthy cause, let us resolve that no aim is too lofty but that by the practicing of these virtues we may attain to our highest ideals, let us be known as GOD fearing and GOD serving men, loyal and obedient to the laws of the land in which we live and true and faithful to our better selves. An excellent oration was delivered b y W.'. B r o t h e r G. FRANK R E A V I S a n d w e are pleased t o q u o t e t h e following, although if space p e r m i t t e d we would have used more of this excellent address: AVe, as individuals sit in judgment on our fellows; we demand the right to dictate the manner of their lives. We complain and criticize if their conduct
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CORRESPONDENCE—NEBRASKA.
425
does not comport with our standards; we have fashioned a garment pleasing to us. which we insist that men of all statures shall wear. Our road is not only the best road but it is the only safe road and we complacently direct all of our associates along its pleasant and peaceful way. It does not concern us except to excite us to indignation that they may have other roads of their own, more pleasing and more profitable to them. We have no sympathy with those whose heredity, environment and circumstance differing from ours have directed them in other ways. We are intolerant of all ways save our own. of all conduct not in harmony with that of our adoption. Such an attitude is provincial and is dictated entirely by a lact^ of understanding. No one ever asked for the privilege of being born into this world, he just found himself here, blessed or cursed by inheritances from a long Hnc of ancestors. One is the victim of evil impulses that came in with his first garments, he did not ask for them any more than lie asked for his life. Another finds correct conduct the easiest way. It would be as difficult for him to be other than good as it would be for the one to be anything but bad. Yet we demand that they wear the same garments of morality and have not the slightest sympathy for the unfortunate if through the curse of heredity he falls below the standard of the naturally good man. Selfishness, always a hard taskmast;er, demanding of its servants the commission of many offenses against individual rights and the rules of organized society, seems to have come into its own Its dominance is apparent in all walks of life, from the affairs of the most unimportant individual to substantially all international relationships. If one were to judge the future by the present, it would be quite liopeless, but there is one thing the ages have shown and that is that the heart of humanity is sound. Otherwise, civilization would not have progressed, otherwise mankind would hav'e retrograded to the elemental. Given that condition, that is to say, assume the love of fair play, the insistence on the observance and protection of individual rights as a controlling impulse of humanity then, by so assuming, you predict a result not in harmony with the recklessness and selfishness and indifference that lies upon the surface but only upon the surface of the present. Do these observations seem out of harmony and inappropriate to the hour? I do not seek to speak of Masonry concretely, I prefer to speak of those things to which Masonry should give some attention if it is to foreclose its greatest possibility. "Behold how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity," was not restricted to a given group when it was uttered nor should we as Alasons so restrict it now. It is not enough that this ancient order of ours whose membership comprises the elect in intelligence, character and influence, should contribute to the happiness and welfare of its members, for speaking gnerally. it fails if it does not enlarge that contribution to the fullest extent of its possibility. Brethren cannot dwell together in imity when indifferent to individual rights. Groups, classes, sections, nations cannot permit intolerance and selfishness to inspire their conduct and expect anything else than irritation and controversies as a result. Treaties and league covenants will continue scraps of paper and though the heart cries out "Peace" as its most passionate hope, there is no peace so long as the causes which produce war are permitted to function. I cannot accept the conclusion that we have justified our existence as an order by a service restricted to membership. The potentialities of Masonry with its selected personnel, with its far fliing line stretching across the civilized world, are incalculable if utilized to full capacity. I do not judge success by accomplishment but rather by contrasting accomphshment with possibility. One with inferior mental eqiupment who employs it to the utmost though his accomplishments be relatively small, is a greater success than is one with rare mental attainments who achieves greatly,
426
COBBESPONDENCE—NEVADA.
February,
though less than he would have, had he used his talents to their greatest possibilities. One who plays a poor hand well though he loses, justifies his life more than one who plays^a good hand indifferently though he wins.
Brother FRANK L . HAYCOCK includes with his Report on Correspondence a review of our 1926 Proceedings. Brother HAYCOCK compliments the writer, who is likewise Grand Secretary, for the scope of his report and accepts as a compliment the remarks the writer made concerning Brother WHITE. EDWIN D . CRITES, M.-.W.-. Grand Master, Chadron. LEWIS E . SMITH, R . \ W . \ Grand Secretary and Correspondent,
Omaha. Next Annual, Omaha, June 7, 1927
NEVADA —1926. Lodges, 23; members, 2,721; net gain, 34. Reno, June 10, 1926.
CLARENCE L . YOUNG, M.-.W.'. Grand
Master. We regret to note the absence of our Grand Representative at this Comrnunication. Just before closing the first session the Grand Lodge accepted an invitation from the brethren of Reno to join them and their families the next day in a box lunch picnic. This social feature is most commendable and while we realize that it would not be practical in our own jurisdiction on account of the large membership of our Grand Lodge, we know full well that where the membership is not so large an occasion of this kind is a most enjoyable one and leads to good fellowship among the brethren, to say nothing of the desirable association with the fair sex. On the afternoon of the first day the Grand Lodge performed the ceremony of laying the corner-stone of the Nevada State Historical and Exposition Building. The Grand Lodge on this occasion was escorted by DeWitt Commandery No. 1, Knights Templar. Addresses were delivered by Governor J. G. SCRUGHAM and the mayor of the city of Reno, E. E. ROBERTS, who are both members of the Craft. The formal address, however, was presented by Brother EDWARD A. DUCKER, Justice of the Supreme Court of that state, and from this excellent address we are pleased to quote the following: Centuries were consumed by the Fraternity In rearing those wondrous churches and cathedrals which adorn not only the continent, but the Island which gave birth to the present system of science, and wherever the beautiful order of archltectvu-e, the Gothic Is observed, the Mason is reminded that it originated with oiu- ancient Brethren and is a gift of the Craft to the Church. The magnificent temple of SOLOMON was the work of the Jewish builders, . and such was their skill and ingenuity that there was "neither hammer nor ax, nor any tool of iron heard throughout the house while In the building." " N o workman's steel, no ponderous axes rung; Like some taU pine t h e noiseless fabric sprung."
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—NEVADA.
427
In surpassing beauty, and matchless excellence it rose proudly on the mount and was dedicated by the visible glory of the King of Kings. "We love to indulge in the traditions which connect the Fraternity with those ancient Jewish builders, and to contemplate the history of those operative Masons who succeeded them as the world grew older. And hence it is that the Craft now practicing speculative Masonry plants the corner-stone, which In symbolic meaning, is the foundation of the entire structure. It is laid with rites and ceremonies of ancient origin. Tliey come down to us from the centuries that are gone where the gray dawn of history is stiU mingled with the mystery and romance of tradition; when the facts of life began to be established among the legends of old. Out of the East they came when man began his struggles with barbarism, paganism, ignorance and fear, and to move towards the light under the guidance of Omnipotent Love. His urge of destiny to populate the inhabitable portions- of the globe and build thereon a civilization looking toward the Divine plan, are symbolized by these rites. They speak to the present with its glorious achievements, with its countless monuments of man's capacity for energy and culture of the past, with, its first frail corner-stone of knowledge. They speak of Him "whose counsel runs along the line of ages and to whom a thousand years are as one day." Build! Build! Build!—has been the inspiring theme and constant endeavor of inan in his great adventure on this terrestrial sphere; building on the ashes or foundations of yesterday better and more enduring things: building character by slow degrees; building edlllces and temples with unremitting toil; building faith in himself and in tlie goodness of GOD. HOW slow has been his march when measured by time—yet how imposing and majestic when told by the exploits which cover the vast field of human endeavor! Gradually liis better nature has made way among the meaner passions of life. In every age the good man and true has more than lield his own "with the bad man's injustice, building something strong for his children to tread upon and reach forward for the sustaining power of truth. Often he has risen froin the lowest earth of ignorance to "the brightest heaven of invention." In each decade of years some new astronomer has peered with greater vision among the stars, some bold "COLUMBUS has pushed a httle further from the shore." So mankind has advanced, building as he came over Chaldean plains and past Babylonian palaces;, in Grecian.climes and in Roman lands; In the sylvan shades of lordly forests and majestic solitudes of boundless plains, Into the heart of continental Europe, and acorss to those English Isles set in silver seas. He built the Magna Charta there, overshadowed by far as a gift to his race all the material evidences of his toil. The failure of the British throne, and those standing near it, to apply its principles abroad, lost them an empire in this Western World, then the far-flung outpost of man's conquest over nature and himself. The Magna Charta and the Constitution of the United States, centuries apart, erected by the intellectual toil, sacrifice and devotion of the millions who are dead, tower along the track of human progress stronger and more enduring than all the pyramids of Egypt. They are corner-stones which speak of aspirations attained and secured—secured beyond the power of evil men to destroy or impair. Monuments of civilization, religious liberty and civil freedom are sustained by these stones of the builder. Dreams they were centuries ago, when force ruled and ignorance prevailed among the masses of men. Realization of dreanis now and the glory of Christian nation's long struggling to be free
The Grand Master recommended that their Grand Lodge retain their membership in the Masonic Service Association; however, the Grand Lodge took an opposite view and disapproved of his recommendation.
428
CORRESPONDENCE—NEVADA.
February,
He likewise recommended that no action be taken looking toward joining the National Masonic Tubercular Sanatoria Association. He also recommended that all initiates be presented with a copy of the Holy Bible. The committee disapproved of this recommendation. He likewise recommended that some provision be made in their regulations so that a brother can petition for the degrees in the Eastern Star immediately after receiving the third degree. This act contemplated making an exception in their law which does not permit a newly made Master Mason to join some other society predicating its membership on Masonry for one.year after the date they are raised. The Grand Lodge disapproved of his recommendation and the ladies, therefore, will be obliged to wait on these brethren until the expiration of the time limit, the same as the almost innumerable organizations claiming to be a part and parcel of the Masonic fraternity. The Grand Master made a careful survey of the Lodges relative to the use of the Masonic Service Association material and was very much disappointed to learn that ninety per cent of the lodges are not deriving the benefits intended. Through the committee on Ritual it was recommended that the Grand Lodge adopt a uniform system relative to the reception of Grand Lodge Officers. Our standard form in Kansas might be of some assistance to our Nevada brethren. Likewise our ceremony of laying corner-stones. The salary of the Grand Secretary was increased to $900.00 and the writer of the Report on Correspondence was allowed $400.00. In the report of the Ccmmittee on Jurisprudence we find a formula concerning the laying of foundation or corner-stones and in it we notice that the inscription on the stone shall contain the name of the Grand Master. We fear from our own experience many, many years ago, that it is not desirable to follow this practice, in fact we have no regulations on this subject, but we do not, under any circumstances, engrave the name of the Grand Master on a corner-stone and in fact no reference whatever is made to the stone being laid by the Grand Lodge of Masons except in buildings to be devoted to Masonic purposes only. The Report on Correspondence was again presented by Brother EDWARD D . VANDERLIETH and we are under obligations for a review of our 1925 Proceedings. • WENDELL H . CHURCHYARD, M . ' . W.-. Grand Master, Yearington. EDWARD D . VANDERLIETH, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary and Correspondent, Reno. Next Annual, Reno, June 9, 1927.
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—NEW
BRUNSWICK.
429
NEW BRUNSWICK - 1 9 2 5 . Lodges, 44; m e m b e r s , 5,963; n e t gain, 224. St. J o h n , A u g u s t 27, 1925.
GEORGE D . ELLIS,
M.-.W.-.
Grand
Master. Prior t o t h e A n n u a l Communication t h e b r e t h r e n repaired t o T r i n i t y C h u r c h where Divine services were conducted b y their G r a n d Chaplain, assisted b y t h e Rector of t h e C h u r c h . F r o m t h e sermon of Brother L A W R E N C E , t h e G r a n d Chaplain, we t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following: For .character is the result of conscious effort continued from day to day. That which you most desire in the depths of your inmost heart is the plan by which you shape your building. Set your affection on things which are base and unworthy and your character becomes a wall of unlovely type. Set your affection on things above, on the unseen values of eternity, on truth ^^^ light and justice, and the built-up wall of your character mil proceed along lines that please the eye of the Master. The stones which enter Into that wall are thoughts and words and deeds. As a wise and skillful builder rejects some of the stones that are brought t o him as unfit to have a place in his building, so you ought often to reject many a thought that is suggested, to refrain from repeating much that is told you, and to abstain from many deeds which by the thoughtless and profane are performed to our knowledge every day. A wall of masonry is not just a chance accumulation of stones and mortar. It is a studied and carefully planned arrangement executed with attention to every detail. Good character in man is not a wild and natural growth. I t is only developed imder careful discipline. The standard of righteousness is as unvarying as the Plumb. Virtue is as exact as the angle of the Square. Our determination t o be good and true must be as continuous and unbroken as the Level line which stretches far beyond the bounds of space to the realms of eternity. Let no one suppose that it does not matter what he believes, or how he speaks, or what he does; for thoughts, words, and deeds are the building material of his character. B r o t h e r G E S N E R A. TAYLOR, our G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e , w a s present a t this Communication. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r presents a very brief, detailed report a n d we cannot feel t h a t -it is t o be classed as a n address. H e first extends a welcome t o t h e b r e t h r e n a n d states t h a t i t w a s his privilege t o visit m a n y of t h e lodges during his t e r m of office. H e t h e n refers t o t h e d e a t h of a n u m b e r of brethren in their own jurisdiction, a n d referring t o t h e following m a t t e r s which will no d o u b t b e of interest t o our readers: The most notable event in England is the completion of a fund of more than £850,000, for the erection of a great Masonic Temple in London which is to be a centre for the activities of the Grand Lodge of England and a memorial to the English Masons who fell in the Great War. This great fund has .been raised by voluntary contribution without calling upon the funds of Grand Lodge for assistance, and without interfering in any way with the very generous contributions which our English brethren make to Masonic charities. The Grand Lodge of Ireland has this year celebrated with fitting, ceremonies the two hundredth anniversary of its organization. I regret that I
430
CORRESPONDENCE—NEW
BRUNSWICK.
February,
was'imable to accept the invitation to witness these ceremonies. Freemasonry in New Brunswick Is deeply indebted to Irish Masonry.
* * * * * *
Several Lodges of the Eastern Star exist in this province and each of them, 1 believe, meets in the local Lodge room. This Order is favourably received in Scotland, but has been sternly banned by the United Grand Lodge of England and the Grand Lodge of Ireland. The Sister Jurisdiction of Nova Scotia has likewise discouraged it. Grand Lodge may feel inclined to deal with this subject. The use of our Private Lodge rooms is greatly to be deprecated-
From the Grand Secretary's report we take the following: No fewer than twenty-one of our Lodges, by their By-Laws, provide that the Festival of Saint JOHN THE EVANGELIST, December 27, sliall be a regular Communication for the purpose of installing officers. Such a By-Law is authorized by section H "of Private Lodges." The use of the word regular is perhaps unhappy for in some instances it is taken to mean that ordinary business may be brought up. Such a view is, however, incorrect. The only business wliich the Lodge can do, apart from the installation, is to confirm that part of the December minutes which relates to the election of Master,' Treasurer and Tyler.
We are pleased to quote the following under the head of "Presentation of Portrait" and particularly in view of what transpired in our own Grand Lodge at our last Annual Communication when a painting, in oil, of the writer of this report was unveiled, to his surprise, before the brethren: I t is a privilege for me. a t tills Fifty-Eighth Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of New Brunswick, to present, on behalf of the officers and members of Carleton Union Lodge, No. 8, as a token of their esteem and regard for him, tliis portrait of Right Worshipful Past Grand Master D. C. CLARK. One June 6, 1S78, DANIEL C . CLARK was received as an apprentice in the Ma-
sonic Order, and on August 1 of the same year he received the degree of Master Mason. Bro. CLARK'S grandfather was a charter member of the Carleton Union Lodge, joining It In 184G, while his son, Bro. CLARK'.S father, was a life-long member and for many' years held the office of Junior Warden. Bro. CLARK was elected Worshipful Master for the years 189.'')-9(i'. During the years 1917. 18 and 19 he was Grand Master of this Grand Lodge, and to the excellent performance of his duties all present' can testify. He represented the Grand Lodge at the peace celebration of The United Grand Lodge of England in London in 1919. This portrait will be a reminder of liim and his excellent record for future ages, and I know that I express the thoughts of all members of not only Carleton Union. Lodge, but all the Masonic Orders in tlie city and province, when T wish that he be spared to be with us for many years to come, to give us the benefit of his sage advice and counsel. GEORGE D . ELLIS, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, St. John. J. TWINING HARTT, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, St. John.
Next Annual, St. John, August 26, 1926.
1926-27.
CoBRBSPONDENCE—NEW
JERSEY.
•
431'
NEW JERSEY-1926. Lodges, 226; members, 86,230; net gain, 3,403. Trenton, April 21, 1926. RALPH E . LUM, M . - . W . - . Grand Master. M.\ W.'. Brother ARTHUR POTTBRSON, the representative of the
Grand Lodge of Kansas, was present. As usual our New Jersey brethren had the privilege of extending the usual courtesies and entertainment to a large number of distinguished Craftsmen from the following jurisdictions: Massachusetts, Delaware, Connecticut, Rhode Island, North Carolina, Texas and District of Columbia. Of course Texas was represented by the Secretary of the Masonic Service Association of the United States who we have no doubt was looking after the interests of that organization. The Grand Master, among other things in the preface to his address, had the following to say concerning things in their jurisdiction: The year, Masonically, has been one of peace and prosperity. The extensive growth, both in members and new lodges, so significant and Insistent the past several years, continues unabated. Tins condition presents serious problems for consideration, and to them reference will later be made. .We are continuously grateful to the Giver of Every Good and Perfect Gift that there abides the willingness to give beyond our capacity or readiness to receive.
Under "Foreign Relations" he submitted, among other things, the following after directing attention to an error made by their Grand Lodge in extending recognition several years ago to what is known as the Grand Orient of Haiti: Some men have lodge consciousness, some have a State-wide consciousness, but, praise be! in this day and age an increasing number of men are instancing the all-pervading, all-inclusive Masonic, consciousness. This design appearing at this time on life's trestle board is of more than passing significance and Importance. Armaments and treaties may preserve national tranquility in a war-weary world. Scars, however, soon heal; lessons are soon forgotten; and in the end the only stabilizing force malting for permanent peace and abiding good will is the active, radiant influence of Brotherhood. Bullets, gas and shells may do the killing, but hates, jealousies, envies, antagonisms and sinister designs for dominion and control are the causes that set the destructive agencies In action. The internal mechanism, the management of its own affairs, the policies, rituals and full government of each sovereign Grand Lodge, may well be left severly alone by each other Grand Lodge. The spirit of Masonry, however. Its universal fundamental teaching of the spirit of sincere true Brotherhood as the active cementing force and power on this earth is all-inclusive, allpervading and all-powerful.
Of course the Grand Lodge at this Communication withdrew their fraternal recognition of the Grand Orient of Haiti. He refers to the salary of their Grand Secretary, Brother ISAAC CHERRY, and recommended that his salary be increased. We are
432
CORRESPONDENCE—NEW
JERSEY.
February.
pleased to say that this subject was referred to their finance committee, who recommended that his allowance be increased to $7,000.00. The recommendation was adopted. From his conclusion we take pleasure in quoting the following: I desire to restate and unqualifiedly record the truth I have repeated in so many of your lodges, that Masonry differs utterly from every other organization of which I have read, studied or heard. It is, to be sure, clobcly akin to the ancient wisdom religion, in which the good, the true and the beautiful were studied as one; in which religion, science and art were fundamentally one; and its symbolism and method are ancient beyond reckoning. Those, however, who mistake Masonry for another social organization are in error— though it teaches brotherhood, fraternity, co-operation and good fellowship. Those who regard it as a beneficial organization are quite mistaken—though its benefits, materially, mentally and spiritually, are great indeed. Those who feel that it takes the place of a church are apt to stray In darkness, though in truth it teaches man so to live that lie may prove his divine heirship. Those who regard it as an aid to business cheat themselves and delude others. What then is this Masonry.of ours? Books, many of them, have been written on its symbolism, its allegories, its tenets, ritual, method, form and teachings. They have, however, touched but the hem of its garment. One who but licks the skin must forever miss the flavor of the orange. One may thoroughly study biology and learn a vast range of facts dealing with form and externals, yet miss entirely the miracle of the inbreathing of the spirit of life. Perhaps it is only the few intelligent, courageous, intrepid, energetic, searching yearners for the inner secret, for the germ of life hidden beneath the outer husk, who catch the glimpse of the Promised Land. There are enough of them, however, practical, consistent, useful pilgrims, to be a source of encouragement. I know of none who has not been rewarded far beyond belief by conscientious Masonic study and meditation. Initiation may then become a fact, not a mere gesture or stunt performed. And'the way Is then opened to the second step. The mind actually prepared for a wider and more extended range of thought may better hope to comprehend the liberal arts and sciences and their true significance. As all the works of the Almighty are made in number, weight and measure, and as man is a fragment of these works, there is no room for chance, luck, chaos or confusion in his life save as he willfully introduces it there. Additional treasures of science and knowledge may in the second degree be gathered by one who has learned that humility is the beginning of wisdom and that though knowledge may be gathered through the head, ivisdom must come from the heart. When the spirit moves on the waters of life the process has in every age, clime and time been known as three-fold. Books have been written on the number three and more will yet be told. Brahma. Vishnu, Siva, Osiris, Isis, Horus, Father, Son and Holy Ghost, find their counterpart in every civilization yet discovered. The process of creation, preservation and transformation (or regeneration), is illustrated and illuminated in the second degree for him to whom the attentive ear is not a mere matter of words. That lovely degree teUs Ulso that GOD geometrizes and points the way to an understanding of the harmonious order and beauty of the Groat Law in which we live and move and have our being. As the first degree prepares the body, and the second the mind, so the third presently brings that which human wisdom alone will not suffice to teach —for the human may not teach and inform the divine. And this great degree of Masonry shows man that he has a body, yet is not a body; has a mind, yet is not a mind; that the body is a temple, the mind an instrument, yet that they are creations; while He in His divine right is a Creator and survives.
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—NEW
MEXICO
433
Words and symbols mean to us only that which we understand by them— and none can comprehend for another. Every change of apron or lights; every symbol, movement and legend of our work, is pregnant with meaning to the awakened consciousness. I t teaches a thousand lessons, all going t o establish a great, fundamental, eternal unity. And that, when realized, tells us that there is no truth more broad, deep and abiding than brotherhood. One increasing purpose runs through all of Masonry and all of life— one Creator and one Great Law connotes, implies and necessitates all men as brothers. This we know, but to transmute this knowledge into action, to make t h a t which is sound theory, good practice, demands character, courage, cheer and unceasing endeavor. The Masonic principles of light and liberty guided, directed and inspired those who were drawing great and significant designs on the map of this new world one hundred and fifty years ago. The principles are unchanging and the need to-day as great as ever. Ignorance, bigotry, sectionalism, race hatred, selfishness, greed, indifference, inertia and cruelty are rufHans as ready as ever to slay the Master workman. T h e C o m m i t t e e on Correspondence in this jurisdiction is allowed $500.00. As a comparison a n d in justice t o t h e one who will succeed t h e writer of this r e p o r t w h o is n o w serving h i s t h i r t y - t h i r d year a s Grand Secretary, we will s a y t h a t t h e salary allowed t h e G r a n d Secret a r y if $1,800.00, a n d for his services as C h a i r m a n of t h e C o m m i t t e e on Correspondence, $300.00. T h e membership in b o t h jurisdictions is practically t h e same, a l t h o u g h K a n s a s has almost twice a s m a n y lodges as N e w Jersey. T h e R e p o r t on Correspondence was p r e p a r e d b y B r o t h e r R O B E R T A. S H I R R E F S , a n d we a r e pleased t o find a splendid review of our 1925 Proceedings. W I L L I A M B . M A C K E Y , M:.W.:
Grand Master, Trenton.
ISAAC C H E R R Y , R . - . W . - . G r a n d Secretary, T r e n t o n . R O B E R T A. S H I R R E F S ,
Correspondent.
N e x t Annual, T r e n t o n , April 20, 1927.
NEW MEXICO—1926. Lodges, 5 6 ; m e m b e r s , 6;555; n e t gain, 134. Roswell,
February
15, 1926.
JAFFA
MILLER,
M.-.W.-.
Grand
Master. T h e y h a d as a distinguished guest M.-.W.-. B r o t h e r E D R . B R Y A N , Grand M a s t e r of t h e G r a n d Lodge of Texas. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r , among other things, h a d t h e following t o s a y as a concluding p a r a g r a p h in t h e preface t o his address: 1 wish to announce, thus early in this address, that there is notliing to startle or annoy you in what is to follow. The printed record of our work for the year will disclose something of activity, with something of the quiet life here and there, in the individual Lodges, as we have found it in the other years. There has been no disturbance, either among ourselves or as to other Grand Jurisdictions. No problem of the year has been embarrassing. The labors of your Grand Master have thus been made loss burdensome. Better than that, they have been made an aggregation of pleasures.
434
CORRESPONDENCE—NEW
SOUTH
WALES.
February,
Under his "Rulings, Decisions and Opinions" we find several that are quite interesting in view of our law on physical qualification. One query was whether a lodge could confer the degrees on a man who had lost his right arm, and another was whether they could confer the degrees on one who had lost a limb. In both cases the Grand Master refused permission. However, one lodge came to the front with a question as to whether one who had lost the first three joints of his index finger was eligible and in this case the Grand Master answered in the affirmative. The following one, however, is rather interesting: A lodge wanted to know whether they could make a Mason of a man who had lost his leg at the knee but who possessed an artificial limb, with good control of the same. To this query the Grand Master answered in the affirmative. It is truly unfortunate that in the other two cases the men who desired to receive the degrees had not purchased artificial limbs and qualified thernselves in their use. We note from the report of the Masonic Relief Fund that $7,733.81 was dispensed for charity and relief during the past year. Through the report of the Committee on Jurisprudence the law concerning dues and fees was amended whereby each lodge is required to pay annually $1.50 for each member on the rolls; $1.00 for each member for the benefit of the Masonic Home Fund; $1.00 for the National Masonic Tuberculosis Sanatoria Association Fund; $1.00 for each member for the Masonic Relief Fund, making a total per capita of $4.50. In addition to this the Grand Lodge requires for each dispensation for election of officers, $5.00; for each dispensation for installation of officers, $5.00; for each dispensation for other purposes, $5.00, and for each initiation, $10.00. We refer to the above in order that our own brethren may understand that our per capita tax of $1.00, out of which 50 cents is paid to our Masonic Home and ten per cent of the balance goes into our Charity Fund, is quite small compared • with what our New Mexico brethren are doing to relieve distress and comfort those who are sick and afflicted with dread diseases. HERBERT B . HOLT, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, Las Cruces. ALPHEUS A . KEEN, R.-. W . \ Grand Secretary, Albuquerque.
Next Annual, Las Cruces, February 21, 1927.
NEW SOUTH WALES —1925. Lodges, 437; members, 59,071; net gain, 3,802. A Special Communication was held on July 23, 1924, at which the. newly elected Grand Master was installed. From the address of the installing Grand Master we are pleased to quote the following: And now t o you, my Brethren, I would like t o say just one little word of farewell. After my ten years' occupancy of the Chair, the time has a t last come when we must part, and to you, therefore, my Brethren here assembled, and
1926-27.
COBBESPONDENCE—NEW
SOUTH
WALES.
435
to the many thousands of my Brethren scattered from one end of this farflung jurisdiction to the other, every one of whom I count as my friend, I not only tender my gratitude and thanks, as T- have done on previous occasions, for the many kindnesses and courtesies that have been shown me, but to-night I also say "Farewell." 1 am leaving this proud eminence that I have occupied for so long—the Chair of Grand Master of this wonderful Grand Lodge of New South Wales. I leave it with a certain sense of relief, for I have found its duties very heavy. And now, stepping down from the summit, I can only pursue my course along that pathway sloping to the West that all alike must sooner or later tread with rapid feet. But I do not go empty-handed: I take "with me a treasure-chest filled to overflowing with precious jewels of which no one can rob me, and I trust I may long be spared to linger sometimes by the roadside, and lovingly count those gems—my pearls of memory.
Following the installation the Grand Master submitted the usual address and from it we take the following: One thing, however. Brethren, I can promise you—that no Grand Master who has occupied this position will have tried harder than I shall to give his best and be worthy of the sacred, trust that you have reposed in mo, and with GOD'S help I hope to be not unworthy to follow in the footsteps of my distinguished predecessors. From the bottom of my heart I thank you all, and I pray that the Great Architect of the Universe in His Goodness will give me wisdom and judgment to carry out the duties of ray office to the honour of the Craft and the satisfaction of my own conscience. Speaking of their William T h o m p s o n Schools t h e retiring G r a n d Master spoke as follows: Every Mason's heart is happy to-day when we think of the William Thompson Schools at Baulkham Hills, wliicli were founded by our retiring Grand Master. Every educational and training facility needed has been provided to fit and prepare our Orphan Children to take their places in society when they leave the Schools for the outside world. From the William Thompson Masonic Schools there will go out to the world in the coming years young men and women who have been inculcated with the principles of Freemasonry, and prepared in body and mind for association with their fellows, and who will help society with that good which always comes from leading useful and upright lives. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r t h e n spoke of their Charles KoUing College a t Moss Vale, concluding with t h e following p o e m : A Mason's charity should be as free As the wild bird that skims the wind-tossed sea; Its only limits, those that prudence makes; Holding him happier who bestows than takes; Its only object, to bring snift relief To those oppressed by woe or bowed by grief, • To smooth a wrinkle from the brow of care. And make the world more beautiful and fair.
Immediately following the installation ceremony M.". W.'. Brother WILLIAM THOMPSON was made the recipient of several gifts as indi-
cated by the following: The presentation I am about to makes comes straight from the hearts of your Brethren, and is of a fore-fold character. The first presentation I will make is that of a Grand Master's Jewel, on wliich is inscribed—
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"Presented to M.'. W.-. Bro. WILLIAM THOMPSON by the Brethren of the
United Grand Lodge of New South Wales, in appreciation of his inestimable services as Grand Master from 1914 to 1924." This. M.-.W.'. Bro. THOMPSON, is the most beautiful Jewel that money could buy, because we recognised -that nothing less would be worthy of you. It was made by one of our Brother Masons, and 1 am sure you will value it for all time, and take pleasure in wearing it, not only for its intrinsic beauty, b u t as a memento of your years of ofBce. Again, we felt that you might like to have something to carry with you every day of your life to remind you of us—not that you want reminding— and we would like you to accept this handsome wristlet watch, so that whenT ever you look at the time you may remember the hours of happiness you spent in the Chair of this Grand Lodge. * * * * * * And last of all I present to you this wallet.- I t contains some very large notes, and is a gift from the Brethren of practically every Lodge in New South Wales. We ask you to spend tlus money as you think fit for the benefit and pleasure of Mrs. THOMPSON and yourself. And now let me express what is uppermost in the heart of every Mason in New South Wales to-night—a fervent prayer that GOD will bless both you and Mrs. THOMPSON, and that you may be spared for very many years of health and happiness. His good wife was not forgotten by the brethren, all of which is explained in the folio-wing words: We felt, too, that we would like to include Mrs. THOMPSON in this presentation, because we all recognise that she has ably seconded you in your promotion of the interests of this Grand Lodge. I personally know of sacrifices she has made on more than one occasion, so that you might keep an engagement made some weeks previously. With your permission I will give the Brethren one instance. Some three or four years ago Mrs. THOMPSON had to undergo a very serious operation, and, although the matter was urgent, she absolutely refused to have that operation performed until the Grand Master had paid a series of visits to some Country Lodges that he had promised to attend. I ask you to accept on her behalf this beautiful diamond ring, which I am sure she will wear with a very great deal of pleasure. Brother THOMPSON made due acknowledgment and if space permitted we would be pleased to quote his remarks. Brother A. J. BURBIDGE, our Grand Representative, was present as usual. At the Quarterly Communication of September 10,1924, the Grand Master delivered the usual address. He first refers to the installation of their Grand Master at that time, in these words: I desire t o take this opportunity of thanking you all for the magnificent expression of your goodwill and fraternal regard in connection with that wonderful ceremony in the Sydney Town Hall on the 23rd July, when nearly 4000 Brethren from every part of this State, and many distinguished Brethren from the other States in Australia and the Dominion of New Zealand, assembled to •do me honour as j'Oiir Grand Master. I t left an impression on my heart that will remain with me while life lasts. Under the head of " O b i t u a r y " he lists the names of R.".W/. Brother JOHN HAMILTON, Grand Secretary, who died August 17, 1924.
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' Brother H A M I L T O N was G r a n d Secretary of t h e Grand Lodge of T a s mania. T h e Grand M a s t e r in s u b m i t t i n g his message was not unmindful' of t h e dignity of t h e office of a G r a n d Secretary, as shown b y t h e following r e m a r k s , which were a d o p t e d : I have pleasure now in asking Grand Lodge to confer the rank of Past Grand Warden on V ..W.-. Bro. D. CUNNINGHAM, G. S. There are many reasons why I think this should be done. This Grand Lodge stands out as the most important Grand Lodge in .^ustraUa in the number of members, Lodges and funds, yet our Grand Secretary has a lower rank than any Grand Secretary in any Grand Lodge of Australia or New Zealand. The prestige of this Grand Lodge demands, I think, that he sliould hold the rank of a Past Grand Warden. Then, it is often necessary to send the Grand Secretary to the country in his official capacity, and it is rather awkward that he should hold a lower rank, as he does at present, than the District Grand Inspectors of Workings. A detailed r e p o r t of all G r a n d Inspectors of Workings is m a d e a p a r t of t h e Proceedings a n d it requires fifty-three pages of this v o l u m e t o record these m a t t e r s . F r o m t h e r e p o r t of t h e T r u s t e e s of t h e William T h o m p s o n M a s o n i c Schools we note t h a t t h a t i n s t i t u t i o n now provides for 144 children,—96 boys and 48 girls, a n d 45 girls are now awaiting admission. F r o m t h e r e p o r t of t h e C o m m i t t e e on Correspondence we q u o t e t h e following as it applies t o our own library a n d m u s e u m : Existing libraries and museums are being extended; and new ones founded^ There seems to be a great need for museums for the preservation of Masonic" relics, regaUa, tools, jewels and documents which otherwise are liable to be~ lost or destroyed. The educational influence of such' museums is gradually being recognized. Masonic charities and educational foundations are more extensive than ever. To train the young and comfort the old, is n e t the principal aim of Freemasonry, but even if Freemasonry had done nothing to benefit the world beyond its works of charity and education, it would have more than justified its existence. We also, q u o t e t h e following from the same report because i t applies so a p t l y t o m a n y m e m b e r s in our own jurisdiction: Brethren, especially new brethren, frequently complain that they do not know where to turn for the means to make daily progress in the acquisition of masonic knowledge. We venture to think that if they will study the Volume of the Sacred Law, the Book of Constitutions, and the Proceedings of the United Grand Lodge of New South Wales (with special attention to the Grand Masters' Addresses and the Reports of the Committees on Foreign Correspondence), they will realise that the difBculty is not to find information, but to assimilate it. Masters of Lodges sometimes find themselves in want of work, a conditipn which a conscientious Mason always deplores. With these reports to hand, a Master can always instruct even if he cannot employ his brethren. T h e usual formal r e p o r t is s u b m i t t e d b y t h e entire c o m m i t t e e , b u t being presented in a topical form m a k e s i t impossible for t h e writer to read t h e entire r e p o r t as he is n o t possessed of t h e necessary t i m e
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to do this and we anticipate that this applies to many other brethren writing the Reports on Correspondence. The reports by jurisdictions are much more desirable as it is a physical impossibility for all the writers to read the complete reports. JOHN GOULSTON, M.-. W.-. Grand Master. DAVID CUNNINGHAM, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, Sydney.
NEW YORK —1926. Lodges, 967; members, 320,985; net gain, 9,715. New York City, May 4, 1926.
WILLIAM A. ROWAN, M . - . W . ' .
Grand Master. We are pleased to find our Grand Representative, R.'.W.'. ALBERT C. BxjRDicK, was listed among those present. The Grand Master follows the usual eastern custom of brevity in submitting his address as we notice it required less than nine lines to introduce the various topics. He announces the Communication •of the Grand Lodge, returns thanks to the Almighty for His care over the Craft during the past year and seeks His guidance in their deliberations. During the year he was called upon and performed twenty-three •ceremonies, which consisted of constituting new lodges, dedicating new halls and similar ceremonies. He and other Grand Officers made the usual annual visit to their Masonic Home at TJtica, where they were entertained with a musical program rendered by the children Under the head of "Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hospital" we are pleased to quote the following as a matter of information to our readers: There were 342 patients cared for at different periods during tlie year, 65 of whom were operated upon. On March 31st, last, there were 147 patients in the Hospital. During the past year radios have been placed in all of the •wards, and on every floor, which helps to relieve the monotony, and adds cheer to the lonely and distressed. The Grand Lodge is now taking care of 155 of those who are not in condition to be given relief in the communities in which they live. They now have 510 individuals in the Home and Hospital, in addition to the 155 being cared for elsewhere, making a total of 665. In addition to this they are now providing for the care of nine cases of tuberculosis. Much has been said by Grand Masters in other jurisdictions concerning the George Washington Masonic National Memorial proposition; however, to t h e notion of the writer none of these reports have made it quite as plain as that of the Grand Master of New York and the report of the committee to whom this subject was referred,
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and as a matter of information to our own brethren we quote the following: From Grand Master's Address: T H E GEORGE WASHINGTON MASONIC NATIONAL MEMORIAL ASSOCIATION.
According to the report of the President of the Association, the movement to build a memorial in the form of a fireproof building to house the reUcs owned by Alexandria-Washington Lodge No. 22, was started sixteen years ago; the Memorial originally was to cost S100,000. By 1916, the Association was committed to a Temple to cost not less than SoOO.OOO; in 1920, this was increased to $1,000,000; later, this amount reached S2,200,000; and anally, it is estimated the Temple will cost 54,000,000, to which should be added an Endowment Fund of $1,500,000, making the toal cost $5,500,000. The Memorial originally planned to cost $100,000 was to house the relics owned by Alexandria-AVashington Lodge No. 22; the Memorial now being erected, to quote from the report of tho President of the Association,- Past Grand Master of Pennsylvania, AI.-.W.'. Louis A. WATBES, "will not only house the invaluable relics that have been owned and so religiously cared for by Alexandria-Wasliington Lodge, but it will represent the Soul of Freemasonry. and will be the mecca for Masons from all over the civilized world. It will not only be a Memorial to WASHINGTON, the Mason, but a striking monument to the Fraternity we love. It will not only be national in character, but international—indeed world-wide.'' Witli the increase from the plan to house certain relics to the Memorial as just -described in the quotation from Past Grand Master WATRES, there necessarily followed an increase in size of both grounds' and building, and the adoption from time to time of enduring materials to insure the permanence of the structure, with proper maintenance, through -the ages, hence the various increases in estimated cost. Yision and planning is one thing, while the means to bring the vision and ' planning to fruition is another proposition. The method adopted in the beginning to produce the necessary means was $1.00 per capita for the Masons of the .United States. Up to the last meeting this method remained unchanged, with the exception of an early arrangement of an Honor Roll of $100" per member. From 1918 to 1925—^seven years—there has been paid into the Treasury $1,662,000, which, .according to the report referred to, on the basis of $1.00 per capita, leaves $1,500,000 still to be paid. Of the $1,500,000 remaining unpaid on the per capita basis, this Jurisdiction is obligated in the sum of $73.762, which amount is the difference between $1.00 per capita of our membership as of December 31, 1924, and the sum we have paid m. However, when we have paid our quota on this basis, and all other jurisdictions have done likewise, the Association will still require $2,500,000 to complete the building, and provide a Maintenance Fund of $1,500,000. This, however, is on the basis that the estimated cost of $5,500,000 will not be exceeded. To remove this question and have a firm figure estabUshed, the Directors have directed that bids be secured for the completion of the work; we will be informed of the definite figure as soon as it is ascertained. As I understand it, the problem confronting the Association is not only to secure the $2,500,000, and have the various jurisdictions pay their quota on the basis of $1.00 per member, but how to get sufficient funds in hand immediately to keep the work going; it will require, according to the report, $500,000 to carry the \fork to June 1, 1927. From the Treasurer's report, there was in the Building Fund on February 16, 1926, the sum of $69,870.09. The plan adopted at the last session of the Association to cover the entire situation is, (1) to secure bids for completion, in order to have a firm figure to work to; (2) to continue the collection of $1.00 per capita, not only on the present membership, but also from each addition thereto, to provide the Endow^, ment Fund of $1,500,000; (3) to offer 100 Brethren of the United States the'
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privilege of subscribing and paying for a blocli of S25,000, the purchasers to be extended such recognition as the Board of Directors deem proper. It is from these bloclts that the Association expects to secure the necessary funds to keep the work in progress. * * * Should tills appeal prove uninter.osting to some of the Craft for one reason or another, I would add for the consideration of such that this undertaking has reached the point where the good name of the Fraternity must be preserved; it is no longer a question of what has been done, or what should bo done, so far as the building Is concerned, or whether or not you have an interest in the building of this Monument to Brother GEORGE WASHINGTON, but the question is whether in some way wo will meet so much of . the ultimate cost as may be properly allotted to us in order to keep the Ciaft of this Jurisdiction free from reproach either froni within or without the membership here or elsewhere. Contributions to this Fund in this Jurisdiction are voluntary: developments have made them in a sense mandatory.
From Committee's report: The Committee on the George Washington Masonic National Memorial Association is pleased to report that marked progress has been made in the premises during the last year. The brethren of our jurisdiction have paid into this fund the sum of 8262,508.00, all of which has been forwarded to the treasurer of the Association at Washington; and over and above this amount, the committee on May 7, 1926, had received the sum of §4,173.7.5, making a grand total of $266,681.75 paid by this jurisdiction. Construction on the temple has progressed to include the exterior walls clear up to the elevation 50 with cornice all around the building, also mezzanine floors, interior partitions, marble columns in auditorium, and the placing of roof arches over entire building, except imder base of tower. The total expenditures up to February 22, 192G, including cost of real estate, landscaping, excavating and foundation, with architects' fees, laying cornerstone, and all expenses, amount to the sum of $1,845,862.09. There has been received by the treasurer of the Association of the several grand jurisdictions from all sources up to February 16, 1926, the sum of $1,904,824. The Association adheres absolutely to our rule that no contract can be made until the money therefor is in the treasury; we are not in debt, and, in order to continue the work uninterruptedly—which is by far the cheapest, the best and the most satisfactory way to proceed—^we must raise the sum of about $500iO00 this year. Although we have estimates from the architects a3 to the cost of the completed building, and feeling that we should have formal bids based on working plans, we have called for bids. Estimates are not always correct; actual bids give tangible information. When the bids are received the information will be furnished all the Craft as rapidly as possible. The estimates amount to about the sum of $4,000,000. So far as we have gone, the actual expenditures are running under the estimates. To the cost of building and furnishings should be added a sum of, say, $1,000,000 or $1,500,000 as an endowment—that the structure and siu'roundlngs may always bo kept in condition to the end that our fraternal message of human brotherhood may be passed along from generation to generation for all time. I t is surprising to note how the enterprise has grown and been enlarged in the hands of the Association since its inception. The idea was conceived sixteen years ago, when a number of Grand Masters assembled at Alexandria, Virginia, and looked over the valuable keepsakes and memorabilia of Washington, at this time owned by the Alexandria-Washington Lodge No. 22, housed in the old lodge room there. This idea has grown and developed "like the rise of the Mississippi. At its source one must stoop and gather away the pebbles to find it. It gradually grows broader and broader, bears on its ample bosom the navies of a mighty republic, mis a gulf and divides a continent." At flrst, the cost of the proposed memorial was to be $100,00, and was simply to furnish a fireproof building to house the articles. The site then
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selected was near Christ Church, which WASHINGTON attended. Later, brethren of broader vision purchased the knoll on Shooters Hill on "WASHINGTON'S old farm. The whole vicinity of Shooters Hill witliln a radius of forty miles speaks volumes as to the activities of "WASHINGTON and his co-patriots at the time of the formative period of our government. From its summit can bo seen the Dome of the Capitol of the United States, the Washington shaft in the city of Washington, the Lincoln Memorial, Arlington, and other interesting places; and when the memorial is completed, from its top can be seen the tomb of WASHINGTON at Mount Vernon, as well as many other historic places. The site is ideal for the purpose, and has grown from two to thirty-six acres. In 1916, when the idea began to grow in the minds of the brethren in charge, they saw that the enterprise would not only be a monument to WASHINGTON, the Mason, but to the Masonic fraternity as well; and, realizing the far-reaching effect of the project, decided to build not for the day but for the future; and that the idea was large enough to build here and around this place and this environment a meeting place for all Masons from wheresoever they might hail— a place for each and all afflliatod bodies in Masonry. So they decided to increase the cost $500,000. Then, in 1920, the subject having grown in the minds of men, the cost was increased to $1,000,000. In 1922 to $1,500,000. Then, as the signiflcance of our undertaking became more apparent, the figure rose to $2,200,000. Then, as the vision became clearer, it was decided to build of granite, which increased the cost $500,000 more; and so it has grown; and today the estiniated cost of what we propose to build is about the sum of $4,000,000. We are now morally sure that when the structure is completed it will accentuate and reflect the great significance, the power and the glory of our fraternity. The plans now adopted are final and are complete in all details. During all this time the Association has confined its financial plan to $1.00 per capita for each Mason in the United States, there being about 3,200.000. Our financial vision has not kept pace with our ideas of building. We have been thinking in too small figures. To complete our designs, we must think in larger denominations. The directors have given this part of our undertaking much thought and are of the opinion that the work must not stop, but must be carried on to the finish. We shall continue to accumulate the dollar per member; and we also now ask for one dollar per each new member from every Lodge. AVe think this plan must be followed tintil the whole project is completed. We are also asking contributions from the affiliated bodies—grand, supreme and subordinate. From these sources we are receiving encouragement. We have received $10,000 from the Knights Templar Triennial Convention; $30,000 from the Northern Jurisdiction of the Supreme Council; we have a pledge of $5,000 from the General Grand Chapter, with $3,000 paid in; and from the Shrine we have the pledge of the sum of $150,000 in five annual payments, with $30,000 already paid.
Referring to their "Fellowcraft Clubs and Square Clubs" he had the following to say: A Fellowcraft Club is of the nature of a wheel within a wheel, although in a few cases it is a question as to whether or not the Fellowcraft Club has become the wheel. In one case recently brought to my attention, all of the active members belong to the Fellowcraft Club; in another, nearly all of the members of the Lodge belonged. This cannot but eventuate in harm to the Lodge. There were several cases this past year where Fellowcraft Clubs did, in the name of the Lodge, that which the Lodge could not do. It is not fair to condemn all for the faults of a few, but I see no reason why there should be any activities of a Lodge that is not under the supervision of an ofiHcer of the •Lodge. Some of these Clubs. I believe, are formed by the younger members in order to have more freedom, forgetting that the Club in no way gives them any more privileges than the Lodge, unless they abuse those privileges, and
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abuse must eventually lead to thejr elimination; certainly so when membership in them becomes inconsistent with membership in a Masonic Lodge. Square Clubs draw their membership from various Lodges, members of the same vocation coming together in a social way, and in this respect something is to be said in their favor, so long as they confine themselves to this purpose, but when they become federated with a National Organization, they are entering upon a dangerous path, likely to feel the power of organization, and look to the organization, rather than to the authority of their origin in Masonry. While it is well for the members of the Craft of the various jurisdictions to come in personal contact with each other, it must be kept in mind that there is ever present with them the supreme authority of their own Jurisdictions. Keeping this in mind, and also the further fact that, no matter what organization a member of the Craft may become a member of, local. State or National, such membership in no way reduces or modifies his obligation as a Master Mason, may assist in avoiding pitfalls, and bring a realization that the member can no more avoid the authority of his Jurisdiction than he can gain freedom from his duty toward that Jurisdiction. While there has not come to my attention any specific instance in this aspect of the case, I feel tills warning is timely. To turn to another aspect, that of lack- of recognition of authority: My attention was called less than two weeks ago to a very grave incident in which both Fellowcraft Clubs and Square Clubs are seriously involved; just how many of. each I have not learned as yet, but jointly there weie twenty-one organizations reprpsented, and their representatives attached the naine of their organization to a message to three United State Senators, urging their action on a matter pending in the United States Senate. They may have felt they had distinguished precedent for this, but there is a prohibition against such action higher than the act of any organization, higher even, than our Constitution, the "Landmarks." As citizens, each individual was free to sign the message, but to preface the message with a statement that they were Masons assembled in mass meeting is in violation of and inconsistent with their membership in a Masonic Lodge. The occurrence is under investigation, and without doubt will be followed by such action as will insure no further transgression. Under the head of "Retirement of R.'.W.-. HORACE W . SMITH,"
their Grand Lecturer, we note that on account of advancing years and physical condition he had been retired as Grand Lecturer Emeritus on a salary of $2,000.00 per year. We quote the concluding paragraph under this head and are pleased to note that the proposition was unanimously adopted: GOD in His providence, if we live, reaches out His finger and touches us all, and the feet begin to falter, the shoulders begin to bow, and, more and more, life is an effort. Now, brethren, when a man has served his GOD, served his fellowman and served Freemasonry as has our Grand Lecturer, Bight Worshipful Bro. SMITH, I say it is not a favor, but it is a duty which we owe to him and ourselves to protect his declining years when but for that which he has done he would have doubtless been able to have saved and protected them for himself.
We regret that space will not permit of quoting other important topics considered at this Annual Communication, but we must be consistent and allow space for other jurisdictions. From the preface to the Report on Correspondence we take pleasure in quoting the following: The varying interpretations presented of the mission and objects of Freemasonry, and as to what are the limits within which the Craft seeks to realize
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these, yield food for open-minded reflection; wliile gratification and inspiration will be found in the discovery that the essential elements of Masonry are the same everywhere. True Masonry is universal in that it is adapted to every land and clime, and need not yield up one iota of its central thought to gather in the best of every race, and unite them in a great brotherhood seeking to exemplify in thought and conduct the will of Him who is Oiu' Father. We find in this r e p o r t a brief reference t o t h e t r a n s a c t i o n s of o u r Grand Lodge as shown in our 1925 Proceedings. H A R O L D J. R I C H A R D S O N , M . - . W . - . G r a n d M a s t e r , Lowville. ROBERT JUDSON KENWORTHY, R.-. W . ' . Grand Secretary, Masonic
Hall, N e w Y o r k City. S. N E L S O N S A W Y E R , P . - . G . - . M . - . , C o r r e s p o n d e n t ,
Palmyra.
We cannot refrain from offering a suggestion to Brother KENWOKTHY in connection with the preparation of his excellent journal and that is t o add with the list of Grand Officers on the outside back cover, the date for holding the next Annual Communication.
NEW ZEALAND-1925. Lodges, 270; members, 23,887; n e t gain, 1,097. D u n e d i n , N o v e m b e r 25, 1925. R. H . R I C H M O N D , D e p u t y a n d Acting G r a n d Master, presiding. Concerning t h e opening of t h e G r a n d Lodge a n d as a m a t t e r of information t o our own readers we q u o t e t h e following: Members of Grand Lodge having assembled in Burns Hall, Dunedin, at 10 A. M. on Wednesday, 25th November, 1925, the Yery Worshipful the Grand Director of Ceremonies announced that Right Worshipful Bro. E. H. RICHMOND, Deputy Grand Master, was in attendance, and called upon the Worshipful Brethren to receive him, whereupon Right Worshiijful Bro. RICHMOND, as Acting Grand Master, accompanied by Grand Offlcers and Past Grand Officers as herein recorded, entered the hall and proceeded to the East. The R.'.W.'. the Acting Grand Master having taken his seat, the Grand Wardens' chairs were filled by R..W.-. Bro. C. W. NIELSEN (Senior Grand Warden) and R .-.W.-. Bro. W. R. RUSDEN (Junior Grand Warden). Other Grand Officers were conducted to their respective stations, and Grand Lodge was opened in ample form. Following t h i s t h e G r a n d M a s t e r addressed t h e G r a n d Lodge in a m o s t touching m a n n e r concerning t h e great loss t o their E m p i r e t h r o u g h t h e d e a t h of Q U E E N A L E X A N D R A .
D u r i n g t h e year t h e y suffered t h e loss of t h e i r G r a n d M a s t e r , M.-.W.'. W I L L I A M F E R G U S O N M A S S E Y a n d t h e D e p u t y G r a n d M a s t e r h a d t h e following t o s a y in presenting his r e p o r t : Before [proceeding with the business of Grand Lodge, it is altogether •fitting that I should refer to what is uppermost in the mind of every brother present, namely, the loss of our late Grand Master, M.-.W.-. Bro. WILLIAM FERGUSON MASSEY. I t is universally admitted that in choosing Bro. MASSEY as our Grand Master we selected one of the most worthy brethren this Grand Lodge has ever had to preside over it—and we have had many able and dls-
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tlnguished brethren to flU t h a t liigh position. The kejiiote of his life was service. H e carried into practice the teachings of our antient charges. I n fact, his zeal for his country alone prevented him from coming long ago into prominence as a Freemason. He was a man willing to accept the responsi»>ilities of office, forgetting the honours—a man devoid of self-seeking; his first care the good of the Empire. Devoted t o duty, regardless of self, he spent himself in the service of the country he loved, and that country and the Empire are immeasurably riclier in everything that is worth while for his life of service and devotion.
Under the head of "Election of M.'.W.'. Grand Master" we quote the following: M..W.'. Bro. J. .1. DOUGALIJ, P.'. G .'. M . . , proposed the election of Bro. His Excellency General .Sir CHARLES FEKGUSSON, Bart. During his period of residence in New Zealand as Governor-General, His Excellency had given strong evidence of his capacity as an administrator, and also his humanity as a man. When he was approached on the subject. Sir CHARLES had been exceedingly diffident on the question of accepting such a high station in Freemasonry, and had taken up the position that as he was new to the office of Governor-General, his first duty was to learn his duties in that capacity before taking up any added responsibility. Subsequently, however, he had given his assent, and given it in a whole-hearted manner. He (M..W.'. Bro. DOUGALL) was confident that Grand Lodge would have in His Excellency a very eminent Grand Master, and one whom the brethren would learn to esteem very highly. T h e G r a n d Master-elect w a s t h e n a n n o u n c e d , a d m i t t e d a n d int r o d u c e d t o t h e G r a n d L o d g e . I n response t o t h e welcome he spoke as follows: His excellency said he wished to thank Grand Lodge from the bottom of his heart for the honour it had conferred tipon him, arid for the welcome just extended to him. At the present moment he would not say more, but he wished to assure the brethren how greatly he appreciated his election, and how earnest would be his endeavour to merit the confidence they had placed in him. During t h e year t h e r e w a s credited t o t h e account of t h e Widows a n d O r p h a n s a n d Aged M a s o n s ' F u n d more t h a n $43,000.00, which certainly s p e a k s well for a jurisdiction of a b o u t 23,000 m e m b e r s . T h i s fund w a s a u g m e n t e d during t h e year b y bequests a m o u n t i n g t o several t h o u s a n d dollars. T h e C o m m i t t e e on Necrology, a m o n g o t h e r things, h a d t h e following t o s a y concerning t h e d e a t h of their G r a n d Master, M.'. W / . Brother MASSEY:
The Board of General Purposes places on record its sense of the severe loss suffered by the Masonic fraternity generally in the death of their Most Worshipful Grand Master, WILLIAM FERGUSON MASSEY, on 10th May, 1925,
and tenders its respectful sympathy to the widow and family of our late Brother. Our late Most Worshipful Grand Master had reached his exalted rank, not only in. Freemasonry but as the foremost citizen of New Zealand, by his unflagging energy and capacity for work, his singleness of purpose, and his devotion to duty, spread over a life-time of magnificent service to King, Empire, and Craft.
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—NORTH
CAROLINA.
445
We likewise quote the following from the same report, referring to the death of their second Grand Master, M . . W.'. Brother MALCOLM NiccoL, who at the time of his death was eighty-one years old and who served as Grand Secretary from 1900 to 1921: He was one of the pioneers of the Order and an outstanding figure in the history of Freemasonry in this Dominion. The part taken in the advancement of the Craft in the early days and the great services rendered by our departed Brother in connection with the formation of Grand Lodge, while not generally known amongst many present-day Freemasons, were of immense value. His subsequent work as Grand Secretary during a period of over 20 years also helped very considerably towards the present prosperity of Grand Lodge, and is deserving of every acknowledgment. There is no Report on Correspondence, CHARLES FBRGUSSON, M.-.W.-. Grand Master, Wellington. GEORGE BARCLAY, R . - . W . ' . Grand Secretary, Wellington. Next Annual, Wellington.
NORTH CAROLINA-1926. Lodges, 448; members, 41,334; net gain, 725. Raleigh, January 19, 1926. LEON CASH, M.-.W.-. Grand Master. We again repeat last year's comment—that our Grand Representative was again absent. The facts are the Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of Kansas near the Grand Lodge of North Carolina is a huge joke. From the preface to the Grand Master's address we quote the following: Under favorable conditions we stand again a t the open door-way of a New Year, and note an hour that extends a beckoning hand for better Masonic service. Our hearts are gladdened when we see present the old famihar faces of those who, by their regular attendance and unstinted and unselfish service, for many years, have set a high goal for Masonic endeavor, and have made this Grand Lodge great. They are landmarks of Masonry, whose leadership we are glad to follow. And we welcome just as gladly those fine young men who are here for the first time, erect and clear-eyed; who are full of rich promise;, who bring us their vision splendid, their high purposes, new plans and generous enthusiasm; and who will bring those visions, piu-poses, and plans to a timely fruition. We welcome you all and bid you enjoy with us and with each other the abundant fellowship and fraternal comradeship of this occasion. May brotherly love prevail and every moral and social virtue cement us. Under the head of "Masonic and Eastern Star H o m e " the Grand Master states t h a t he attended three meetings of the directors and referring to that institution, among other things, he had the following to say: The Home was never in better conditon. When Bro. JOHN J. PHOENIX was elected Secretary and Treasurer, a new set of double entry books were installed, and an audit just made of the year's work shows a well-financed and
446
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February,
carefully managed institution. A budget has been prepared for this year and everything is being done in a business-Ulie way. I want to see tlie subordinate lodges show more interest in this worthy institution. A good way for them to start showing this would be to comply with the law by having a Masonic and Eastern Star Home Committee appointed . in eacli lodge, and then let the committees get busy.
He suggests that a history of North Carolina Masonry be compiled, stating that a Past Grand Master of Tennessee suggested that the Grand Lodges of North Carolina and Tennessee unite in having a joint Masonic history prepared of the two states covering the period up to 1813. The Historical Committee of the Grand Lodge of Tennessee has been collecting data for three years for this history and we have no doubt the history of the two jurisdictions, because of their early Masonic relations, would be of inestimable value not only for the present generation but for those who will follow. Under the head of "What Does Masonry Mean to u s " we are pleased to quote the following: " A Mason is a peaceable subject to the Civil Powers, wherever he resides or worlis, and is never t o be concerned in Plots or Conspiracies against the Peace and Welfare of the Nation." So reads the Ancient Charge; and Masonry has ever been an ardent champion of tlie constituted authority of self-government. Today we flad these principles being undermined by disregard and disrespect of law by men of both lilgli and low degree. Whole-hearted respect for the law of the land is a fundamental requirement of every Mason, and it is a Masonic duty to combat tlie enemies of our constitutional government. Masonry is Organized Patriotism. The whole history of mankind shows that there is no substitute for brotherllness. Professions of brotherhood in a Masonic lodge are of no avail unless " they are put intopractice in daily life. It is the task of each individual Mason, In his contemplation of national, state and local problems, to apply these ageold, unselfish and fundamental principles revealed in the ritual. If Freemasonry stands for anything at all it stands for service. Our predecessors laid the foundation of this democracy, and we are tied by the same bonds of obligation to protect our Republic and the principles for wiiich it stands. Freemasons are builders, men engaged in constructive undertakings, and you as one of them cannot stand back and merely watcli your fellow-workers. You believe in brotherhood, not as a platitude, but as a reality to be applied In daily life—and brotherhood implies service.
The Grand Master had the pleasure of introducing Brother L. A. BiCKLE of Stokes Lodge No. 132, who is now ninety-one years old, and represented his lodge in Grand Lodge fifty-one years. Brother BiCKLE is a Past Grand Chaplain of the Grand Lodge of North Carolina. The old brother was received with applause, which was justly his due. We notice the Grand Lodge was entertained with an address by the Secretary of the Masonic Service Association, and which consumes twelve pages of their printed Proceedings. As a matter of history we quote the following from the Report of the Committee on Correspondence, prepared by Brother J. EDWAKD
ALLEN. We cannot, however, refrain from calling attention to an error in his statement that the Grand Lodge of Missouri established three
1926-27.
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447
lodges in K a n s a s , as t h e y established five; three h a d been chartered a n d two were working u n d e r t h e Missouri dispensation when our G r a n d Lodge was organized. We also direct his a t t e n t i o n t o an error in stating t h a t t h e G r a n d Lodge of Colorado was formed w i t h one lodge from K a n s a s a n d t w o from N e b r a s k a , as t h e G r a n d Lodge of K a n s a s dropped three of t h e lodges established in Colorado from their rolls on account of t h e organization of t h e Grand Lodge of t h a t jurisdiction. However, t h e article is interesting and we t a k e pleasure in quoting it in full: The reader must not think, in what follows in this essay, that this is " a n other case where iSTorth Carolina is just claiming all that is in sight." As a matter of fact we are going to set forth merely what was compiled by other brethren several years ago, and In no way connected with North Carohna's affairs. If It loolcs like we claim too much, the truth is that we are not claiming anything, but merely compiling the work done outside of this State. North Carolina is solely responsible for the establishment directly of the Grand Lodge of Tennessee, with eight lodges, in 1813. Tennessee In turn is responsible for the establishment of the Grand Lodge of Missouri, in 1821, with three lodges. Missouri next established lodges which formed the Grand Lodge of New Mexico, in 1877, with four lodges; of Kansas, In 1856, with three lodges; of Iowa, in 1844, with four lodges. Carrying out the lino, Iowa is responsible for the lodges forming the Grand Lodge of North Dakota and of South Dakota,.in 1889. It is thus seen that seven of the American Grand Lodges trace their line exclusively to North CaroUna. Further, we find that Mississippi starts in 1818 m t h two Tennessee lodges and one from Kentucky, the major portion of her ancestry being from us. The Grand Lodge of Alabama was organized in 1821, with nine lodges, one of these being from Georgia, two from South Carolina and the other six from Tennessee and North Carolina. The major portion of her descent is therefore from us. The Grand Lodge of IlUnois was formed In 1818, of six lodges, four of which were from Missouri, and therefore descended from us. The sources of tliis body are chiefly from us. In like manner the Grand Lodge of Wisconsin, formed in 1843, began with two from Missouri and one from Illinois. This was, therefore, almost entirely from North Carolina sources. Also, Nebraska, formed in 1857 from one Missouri lodge, one Iowa lodge and one Illinois lodge. Is almost entirely of North Carolina sources. The Grand Lodge of Nebraska was formed in 1857 of one Iowa lodge, one Missouri lodge and one from Illinois. About.eight-ninths of its beginnings are, therefore from North Carolina sources. The Grand Lodge of Colorado was formed in 1861, of three lodges; one from Kansas, and two from Nebraska. Very little of its sources was other than from North Carolina. In 1874, two Colorado lodges and one from Nebraska formed the Grand Lodge of Wyoming, Its origins are, therefore, almost entirely from our sources. In Uke manner, the Grand Lodge of Montana, formed in 1866 from two Colorado lodges and one Kansas lodge, has little other than North Carolina sources; and also Utah is in much the same class, having been formed by one Montana lodge, one from Colorado and one from Kansas. Thus it will be seen that ten Grand Lodges: Mississippi, Alabama, Nebraska, Wisconsin. Illinois, Colorado, Wyoming, Montana and Utah, sprang from sources almost all of which are of North Carolina origin, in addition to the first seven mentioned, whose origin is exclusively from, us. But we have not finished the story. The Grand Lodge of Minnesota, formed in 1853 of three lodges, is of one from Wisconsin, one from Ohio, and
448
CORRESPONDENCE—NORTH
CAROLINA.
February,
one from Illinois. North Carolina sources are strongly in evidence there. Of the four lodges which in 1838 formed the Grand Lodge of Arkansas, one was from Tennessee and another from Alabama, the other two were from Louisiana. Thus one-third of the sources of the Arkansas Grand Lodge are of North Carolina origin." The Grand Lodge of Oklahoma was formed in 1874 of three lodges from Arkansas; Indian Territory separated in 1892, and merged again on receiving joint statehood. Thus this Grand Lodge shows the same North Carolina sources as Arkansas. T h e Grand Lodge of Florida was formed in 1830 of one Alabama lodge, one from Tennessee and one from Georgia. North Carolina sources, therefore, predominate. Only one of the lodges which in 1850 formed the Grand Lodge of California came from Missouri, tracing back to our origin; the others are from Louisiana, the District of Columbia, New Jersey and Connecticut. Two California lodges and one from Missouri formed, in 1851, the Grand Lodge of Oregon; and, therefore, here our sources are more prominent, being from one direct line and one much diluted. Washington and Idaho sprang directly from Oregon, in 1853 and 1867. respectively. Our sources are, therefore, noticeable In these two bodies. Likewise, the Grand Lodge of Arizona was formed in 1862 of five lodges: one from New Mexico, with direct descent from us, and four from California, with a trace of our origin. The Grand Lodge of Nevada was formed in ISB,? of eight California lodges, showing the same trace. The Grand Lodge of Texas was formed in 1812, of three Louisiana lodges. We have no part in the origins of this body, therefore, except that a no less reliable Brother than Past Grand Master CHARLES COMSTOCK, Grand Historian of the Grand Lodge of Tennessee, who knows as much Masonic history as anybody, tells us that the presiding officer at the occasion of the formation of the Grand Lodge of Texas was a North CaroUna Mason. I t is thus seen that Florida, Minnesota, Arkansas, Oklahoma, California, Oregon, Washington, Nevada, Idaho and Arizona have a noticeable portion of their American Masonic sources in North Carolina. These ten added t o the others mentioned earlier, make twenty-seven Grand Lodges in the United States, in which the American Masonic sources are in whole or in part from North Carolina: seven come from us exclusively, in ten other North Carolina sources are in the lead, and in still another group North Carolina sources are distinctly and perceptibly felt. Our people have gone to all parts of the earth. I t seemed to this writer, as he rode In the parade of tens of thousands of Knights Templar from all parts of our country at the Seattle Triennial last July, that more of the "sideUners" shouted to North Carolina, " I ' m from that state," than gave this shout to any other visiting state.
Our Proceedings for 1925 are carefully reviewed and many of the more important matters of reports and legislation are quoted. His report is excellent throughout. JOHN E , CAMERON, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Kinston. WILLIAM W . WILLSON, R . - . W . ' . Grand Secretary, Raleigh. . J. EDWARD ALLEN, Correspondent, Warrentown.
Next Annual, Raleigh, January 18, 1927.
1926 27.
CORRESPONDENCE—NQBTH
DAKOTA.
449
NORTH DAKOTA —1926. Lodges, 124; members, 15,254; net gain, 184. Bismarck, June 26, 1926.
THEODORE B . ELTON, M . ' . W . " . Grand
Master. Our Grand Representative, Brother HANS A. M O B , was present. They received as a distinguished guest M.'.W.'. Brother EDWARD W. SPOTSWOOD, Grand Master of Montana. The Grand High Priest, M.'. E.-. Companion WILLIAM W . SHAW, was likewise extended the
usual Honors. The next order of business was the reception of all Masons who had been a member for fifty years or more. The first in this list is M.'.W.'. Brother GEORGE H . KEYES, Past Grand Master, now living
his eighty-first year and sixty years a Mason. The Grand Master in presenting his annual address had nothing special to offer and therefore confined himself to an expression of gratitude for the honor conferred upon him by the brethren one year ago and like most Grand Masters he was inclined to believe that he had failed to give to these duties and responsibilities the attention they deserve. Much is said among the membership today concerning the advisability of a regulation making it mandatory on all newly raised brethren to perfect themselves in the lecture of the third degree before being permitted to enjoy the unlimited privileges of a Master Mason in good standing. Our jurisdiction has never assumed to place any such restrictions upon the brother after he has once been raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason, and as a matter of information to our brethren interested in this subject we quote the following taken from the Grand Master's address: At tho annual communication of tlie Grand Lodge lield in .Tune, 1920, legislation was enacted maldng it obligatory upon all Master Masons raised after July 1, 1920, to pass a satisfactory oxaminatioa upon tlie lecture of the Master Mason Degree. This legislation was strengtliened in 1922 by the adoption of a report of the Jurisprudence Committee, and as tiie matter now stands all newly raised brethren are not only barred from voting, liolding office in the lodge or demitting therefrom, but tliey are not entitled to a current dues card until such examination has been passed. It is my understanding that a number of lodges accept dues from the newly raised bretlu'cn prior to the issuance of a card of proficiency and pay the Grand Lodge per capita upon tliem as members. The matter was brouglit to my attention a short time ago and I requested the Secretaries of the constitutent lodges to give me the total nuraljer of Master Masons raised since July 1, 1920, and the number wlio have not yet passed a satisfactory examination upon the lecture .of the Master Mason degree. "With 32 of the 127 lodges in the jurisdiction not yet heard from, I And that 3407 Master Masons have been raised since July 1, 1920, and that of this number 842 have not yet passed an exatoination upon the lecture of the Master Mason degree. The law apparently is incapable of enforcement, and with nearly a thousand brethren raised in tMs jurisdiction who are not yet entitled to be
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CORRESPONDENCE—NORTH
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February,
considered as Master Masons, I would respectfully recommend that the legislation be repealed. It is my humble opinion that Masonic education will do more toward making these bretliren real Masons than drastic legislation of this character will ever accomplish. This subject was referred to the Committee on Jurisprudence, who submitted the following report, which in effect places the responsibility on the Master, thereby relieving the lodge: The investigation of the Grand Master and his report with reference to the passing of the examination of tlie lecture of the Master Mason's degree reveals an unsatisfactory state of affairs. If tliis condition continues there will soon bo an alarming number of brethren who have been raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason in tliis jurisdiction who cannot be considered in any respect as Master Masons under our present legislation, even to the holding of a current dues card. The purpose of this legislation was commendable in that its intent was the education of newly raised brethren, but it has evidently failed in the accomplishment of its object. We recognize the value of each newly raised brother learning the Master Mason's lecture, but believe the responsibility of doing this should bo placed directly upon the Worshipful Master of the Constituent lodge. We recommend that the by-laws be amended, placing this responsibility directly upon the Worshipful Master and that it shall be his duty to fix a date when such brother shall appear for examination on this lecture, and if for any good reason such brotber cannot appear in open lodge then the examination may bo conducted by the Worshipful Master or before any other Master Mason appointed by Mm. We recommend the repeal of all penalties applicable to the newly raised brother, and that all Master Masons raised prior to this date, and who have, not passed such an examination, be declared healed. I t will be noted from the above,.that since the adoption^of this., law in 1920, 3,407 Master Masons were raised, and out of that number 842 were never required to pass the examination as provided in their law. This means that about twenty-five per cent under this regulation are enjoying all the privileges of a Master Mason notwithstanding this law, or are deprived of voting, holding office in a lodge or dimitting therefrom and are not entitled to a card receipt for dues. i From the conclusion to the address of the Grand Master we quote the following, including three verses of poetry which we have quoted in previous reports, but we feel it is worthy of reproduction: Masons are and also have been builders—builders in the true sense^of the term. Masonry is over building for the best there is in life. Building for friendship, morality and brotherly love, building for character in every community, building not for itself alone, but building for those who must follow after. This spirit of Masonry is beautifully expressed in the following lines: "An old man going a lone highway Came at the evening, cold and gray, To a Chasm vast and deep and wide. The old man crossed, in the twilight dim. The sullen stream had no fear for him, But he turned when safe.on the other side, And built a bridge to span the tide.
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"'Old man,' said a fellow pilgrim near, 'You are wasting your strength m t h building here: Your journey will end with the ending day; You never again will pass this way; You've crossed the chasm deep and wide; Why build you this bridge at eventide?' " T h e builder lifted his old gray head, 'Good Friend, in the path I've come,' he said, . 'There followetb after me today A youth whose feet must pass this way. This chasm that has been as naught to me, To that fair haired youth may a pithfall be; He, too, must cross in the twilight dim. Good friend, I am building this bridge for him.'" R.'.W.'. B r o t h e r W A L T E R L . STOCKWELL, their G r a n d S e c r e t a r y , s u b m i t s a n o t h e r of his excellent reports, which contains m u c h information of more i m p o r t a n c e t h a n is ordinarily s u b m i t t e d b y a G r a n d M a s t e r . I n concluding his r e p o r t he had t h e following t o say, which shows a record of service of which B r o t h e r S T O C K W E L L m a y well be proud: Last year we gave this orally. We refrain from any lengthy preachment at this time. We are profoundly grateful to our brethren for the continuance of your favor and confidence. The years are passing. It is thirty-four years since we first attended this Grand Lodge. At that time we little thought it would ever be our privilege to have any part in its work or history. Nearly half that number of years we have been your Grand Secretary. Twenty-four years ago you honored us with an election as Grand Master. In all these years we have had one aim and ambition and that was to make Freemasonry a more Influential factor in the Uves of our members and incidentally help raise the standards of manhood and citizenship in our commonwealth. How much has been accomplished we do not presume to say. History alone will reveal. We have done what we could. B r o t h e r G E O R G E H O V E Y P H E L P S s u b m i t t e d t h e R e p o r t on F r a t e r n a l Correspondence, including a review of our 1925 Proceedings. T h e writer of this report two years ago (Proc. 1925) felt justified in defending t h e position t a k e n b y t h e G r a n d Lodge of K a n s a s in t h e N e w H a m p s h i r e m a t t e r and again referred t o this subject, s t a t i n g a t t h a t t i m e t h a t so far as Kansas was concerned t h e incident was closed. T h e writer of t h e N o r t h D a k o t a Correspondence R e p o r t c o m m e n t e d as follows: "If, as he says ' t h e incident is closed' w h y discuss it further? T h e r e should be a s t a t u t e of limitations passed fixing t h e t i m e within which post m o r t e m examinations can be m a d e . " W e t a k e it t h e comment is more personal t h a n otherwise a n d we therefore are placed in a position where w e m u s t , in justice t o our r e p o r t of t w o years ago, say t h a t we can see n o j u s t cause for the r e m a r k as t h e s t a t e m e n t was truthfully m a d e two years a g o — t h a t so far as K a n s a s was concerned t h e N e w H a m p s h i r e incident was closed. Therefore we feel t h a t t h e reference of t h e N o r t h D a k o t a corr e s p o n d e n t is entirely uncalled for. W e m e a n t a t t h a t t i m e j u s t w h a t we s a i d — t h a t so far as our jurisdiction was concerned t h e h a n d of
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SCOTIA.
February.
brotherly love would have to be extended by New Hampshire as all such proffers on our part had been ignored. We further feel that the suggestion made by our North Dakota correspondent—"that a statute of limitations" be fixed within which post mortem examinations can be made is not in good taste and the remark is certainly not justified by any action taken by the Grand Lodge of Kansas through its Chairman of the Committee on Correspondence. FRANK C . FALKBNSTEIN, M . - . W . ' . Grand Master, Bottineau. WALTER L . STOCKWELL, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, Fargo. GEORGE HOVEY PHELPS, Correspondent, Bowbells.
Next Annual, Minot, 1927.
NOVA SCOTIA - 1926. Lodges, 80; members, 9,744; net loss, 218. Halifax, June 9, 1926.
ARTHUR JAMES DAVIS, M . - . W . ' . Grand
Master. Brother J. G. MITCHELL, our Grand Representative, was present.
In our statistical tables this year it will be noted that the Grand Lodge of Nova Scotia had a net loss of 218, which is due to the fact that the Grand Secretary of Nova Scotia last year, on page 277 of the 1925 Proceedings, reported the subscribing membership as 9962. Of course the writer assumed this to be correct, but it now appears that the membership at that time was 9,662, and this accounts-for an apparent loss, while as a matter of fact they had a net gain of 82. The Grand Master's address contains the following: I esteem it a pleasure indeed to welcome each and every one to this our Sixty-flrst Annual Communication, where brotherly love should reign supreme. There are many reasons why we as men and Masons should love and respect Masonry; but the principal one is because it stands for everything that tends towards the building up of manly men, good, broad minded, square acting men. We may be weals:, tiut Masonry is strong. We may be timid, but Masonry is fearless. We may grow weary—Masonry needs no rest. We may lose heart—Masonry knows not despair. Therefore, with Masonry to' support, to sustain and to encourage, we can conquer, even as BUDDHA subdued the evil spirit in the days long before the smile of a loving Christ lighted up the darkness of the world. We need stalwart Masons, so steadfast in the faith that they mil uphold the teachings of the Craft at all times in and out of the Lodge room. Masons, who will see the inner meaning of the obligations of Masonry and who will carry out those obligations with charity to all—not only in the spirit of charity as we use that word todaj-, but also in the sense in which ST. PAUL used it, and as moderji translators use it, to mean love and good will. I urge you to think of these things for I earnestly believe that "Love and good will" are the key note to all the teachings of our Divine Master. I t is not what we can get out of Masonry that will count—rather it is what you tlu"ough the collective influence of the Lodge can give to the community In which you live. Masonry has high ideals, so that we can always command and retain the respect of our friends and neighbors.
* * * * * *
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—OHIO.
453
• Naturally, the outstanding memories are woven aroimd District Aleetings, for the impressions left in my mind of them are very vivid, and I have thought much about them of late because, in my opinion, the hope of the future success of our Order lies very largely in these District meetings, drawing together the men of a large section for the discussion of their difficulties: and problems. Under such circumstances enthusiasm for Masonry must grow with the increasing knowledge of its value and the individual attending thesereunions will return to his home lifted up with the thought that he has r e ceived as well as given something that may add to the common good. T h e G r a n d Secretary's r e p o r t is very brief; however, it c o n t a i n s a complete showing of t h e membership a n d receipts for t h e previous, year. Recently t h e G r a n d Lodge of N o v a Scotia a d o p t e d t h e dual m e m bership plan a n d t h e C o m m i t t e e on Jurisprudence h a d t h e following to offer on this subject: Now that we have "dual membership" in this .Tiu'isdiction it is probable that from time to time this same question will arise and if the decisions of the Grand Master affecting same, and with which the Board agrees, are upheld and this Report adopted by Grand Lodge this matter should be definitely settled thereby preventing the necessity of Grand Masters being aslied similar questions in the future. Of this the Subordinate Lodges, and particularly the Masters, should talce notice and .govern themselves accordingly. T h e Proceedings again contain an excellent R e p o r t on Correspondence p r e p a r e d b y B r o t h e r J A M E S C . J O N E S , a n d in it we find a splendid review of our 1926 Proceedings.' B r o t h e r J O N E S seems t o h a v e culled from our j o u r n a l all of t h e more i m p o r t a n t t r a n s a c t i o n s of t h a t . Communication. ARTHUR JAMES DAVIS, M . \ W . ' . Grand Master,
Halifax..
J A M E S C . J O N E S , R . ' . W . ' . G r a n d Secretary a n d C o r r e s p o n d e n t , Halifax. N e x t Annual, Halifax.
( N o date given.)
OHIO-1925. Lodges, 605; members, 193,461; n e t gain, 5,760. C o l u m b u s , October 2 1 , 1925.
JAMES B . RUHL, M.-.W.-.
Grand
Master; T h e officers a n d m e m b e r s were escorted from their h e a d q u a r t e r s t o t h e Masonic T e m p l e b y t h e local commanderies, after which a lodge of M a s t e r M a s o n s w a s opened in D u e Forrn. We a r e pleased t o quote t h e short b u t inspiring p r a y e r of t h e i r G r a n d Chaplain: Almighty GOD, we make oiir earnest prayer that Thou wilt keep the United Steites in Thy Holy protection, that Thou wilt incUne the hearts of the citizens to cultivate a spirit of subordination and obedience to government, and entertain a brotherly affection and love for one another and for their feUow citizens
454
CORRESPONDENCE—OHIO.
February,
of the United States at large; and finally t h a t Thou wilt most graciously be pleased to dispose us all to do justice, to love mercy and to demean ourselves with that charity, humility, and pacific temper, which were the characteristics of the Divine Author of our blessed religion, and without a humble imitation of whose example in these things we can never hope to be a happy Nation. Grant our supplication, we beseech Thee, through JESUS CHRIST, our Lord. Amen. So mote it be. A m o n g t h e distinguished visitors is listed t h e n a m e of t h e G r a n d C o m m a n d e r of t h e G r a n d C o m m a n d e r y , t h e G r a n d M a s t e r of t h e G r a n d Council and t h e G r a n d High P r i e s t of t h e G r a n d C h a p t e r . M.'. W.'. B r o t h e r J A M E S B . R U H L p r e s e n t e d his address a n d from it we q u o t e t h e following: Numerically we have been prosperous in that we have had substantial growth in membership, although the Masonic year is a month shorter than in the years heretofore, the close of the Grand Lodge year having been changed from August 31st to July 31st, yet the net gain numbers Five Thousand Seven Hundred Sixty Master Masons, and we now have a membership of One Hundred Ninety-Three Thousand Four Hundred Sixty-One in good standing. We do not speak boastfully of our continued prosperity, but with pardonable pride, for we feel that in all the years it has been deserved. A Special Communication of t h e G r a n d L o d g e was held for t h e p u r p o s e of conducting t h e last sad rites over t h e i r late P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r A L L E N A N D R E W S . P r o p e r reference is also m a d e t o t h e d e a t h of M.-.W.-. B r o t h e r H O R A C E A. I R V I N , P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r and G r a n d T r e a s u r e r of t h e G r a n d Lodge. U n d e r t h e subject of " F r a t e r n a l Visitations of District L e c t u r e r s , " -*he~Grand-Master-had-the following-to-say-: '•— It has been reUably brought to the Grand Master's attentipn that there is, ^n certain sections of the State, a violation of Section 85 of the Code. Some of these violations have been of long standing, that is of other years, and others •only recent, showing an increase in number. Our Code specifically sets forth •what Bodies may meet in a Lodge Room, and it does not include the Order of DeMolay. An amendment was offered to said Section 85 at the last Annual Grand Communication to include the Order of DeMolay (see pp. 81 and 82, Proceedings of 1924), but it was withdrawn at the same session (see pp. 98 and 99). leaving said Section 85 as it was before such amendment was offered. The Grand Master would not be misunderstood in this matter. The Order of DeMolay is very meritorious and doing a great and good work. It is the breaking of Masonic Law and not an organization to which I am directing your attention. Under Section 85 of the Masonic Code of the Grand Lodge of Ohio, no Subordinate Lodge shall permit its Lodge Rooms to be used jointly, except as therein provided. No provision is made for the Order of DeMolay—hence it can not meet there. Any further violation will be regarded as a willful breaking of Masonic Law and will be considered cause for arresting the Charter of the Subordinate Lodge offending.
* * * * * * It is not given to all men to bear arms in the Nation's defense, but every man may cherish his country's flag with a devoted love, and in all his endeavors be obedient to his country's laws—the laws of his State and the laws of his City. Obedience to law is particularly enjoined upon all Ma.sons—and the breaking of laws. National, State and Municipal, is a Masonic offense which should have the earnest attention of every Subordinate Lodge in this Grand Juris-
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—OHIO.
455
diction. Worshipful Masters and Wardens presiding are hereby enjoined t h a t in the event that any member of his Lodge shall break the law, whether by lottery, raffle, games of chance, \'iolacion of the prohibition laws or otherwise, that for any and all violations of law, each and every Lodge in this Grand Jurisdiction shall cause charges to be preferred, a just and fair trial given, and upon conviction, full and adeuuate punishment, in good faith, shall be inflicted.
It is evident the Grand Master was not unmindful of the responsibilities resting upon him in the high office to which he had been elected as it requires ten pages of the Proceedings to record his visits during the year. The Grand Master during the year was asked whether their lodges could sponsor the Order of DeMolay and his reply was as follows: Your letter of March 7, 1923, received and I note the contents. Replying thereto will say that no Subordinate Lodge under the jurisdiction of the M.'. W.'. Grand Lodge F. & A. M., of Ohio may sponsor for a new Chapter of the DeMolay, or for any other Order conferring degrees. I call your attention to Section 5 of our Code, especially Note 2 on page 103, as follows: "Lodges of Master Masons, Subordinate to the Grand Lodge of Ohio, can confer no other degrees of Masonry than those of JSntered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason." Then again I would call your attention to a resolution on page 81 of the Code, as follows; " T h a t any Brother conferring the so-called 'Side Degrees,' is in all cases, a proper subject of Masonic discipline." Note 4 on the same page says, "Lodges of this Jurisdiction are forbidden, under any pretense whatever, to permit their halls to be used for the purpose of conferring the so-called "Side Degrees." It is a well settled principle that you may not do Indirectly that which is forbidden directly in the Code. If you become sponsor of an Order of the DeMolay, you are indirectly conferring such degrees as they'may have. Their degrees are entirely foreign to the Degrees of a Subordinate Lodge F. & A. M., and it wiU be my ruling that a Subordinate Lodge under this Grand Jurisdiction can not act as such sponsor. I wish to be understood in this regard that I am deciding purely from a legal standpoint and bear no ill will whatever against the Order concerning which you speak.
He pays his respects to those attempting to use the records of the Grand Lodge for commercial purposes in the following language: For many years there has been much unfavorable comment on the great variety of dues receipts issued by our respective Subordinate Lodges, none of them indicating that the Issuing Lodge was under the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge. Foreign Jurisdictions were at a loss to determine whether the receipt presented by a visiting Brother was issued by a Lodge regularly constituted by this Grand Lodge. Because of this great variety of forms, impostors are prompted to print a receipt of their own wording and offer it as evidence of their good standing, and the Lodge to which it is presented has no way of determining whether it Is legal or not. Such an incident actually happened while the matter of uniform dues receipt was being considered with the Secretaries of our Subordinate Lodges. An impostor presented a spurious receipt to a Philadelphia Lodge, purporting that he was a member of our Kilwinning Lodge No. 356, and asked for aid. During the investigation of his case it was shown that the receipt was fraudulent. The man was arrested and convicted, and is now serving a term in a Pennsylvania prison.
456
COBBESPONDENCE—OlilO.
February,
There are a number of incidents where our Brethren have been denied permission to visit Lodges in otlier Jurisdictions tjecause their receipts did not certify their Lodges were worliing under our Grand Lodge. Considering the number of impostors and clandestine Masons, such precaution is entirely proper and indicates the real need of a uniform receipt, with a certificate on the reverse side showing validity of membership and alfording convenience and economy to our Brethren. A subject of great interest in our own jurisdiction is t h a t of a card index s y s t e m which t h e writer had t h e pleasure of compiling when he was first elected G r a n d Secretary t h i r t y - t h r e e years ago a n d we are pleased t o q u o t e the G r a n d S e c r e t a r y ' s r e m a r k s on t h a t subject: Last year a card index system of tlie entire membership of Subordinate Lodges was recommended for the Grand Secretary's office, but failed to meet with your approval. A year's contact with the details of this office still further convinces me that such a system must bo provided. My office lias been greatly chagrined on account of its inability to furnish information wliich should have been at once available, but which it was imjiossibie to give at all because this modern business facility was lacking. Our membership has assumed proportions that demand a change in the method of keeping its record if that record is to be efficiently and economically maintained, and from which it will be possible to obtain information with promptness and dispatch. The Grand Secretary's office should not be denied the privilege of keeping pace with the growing needs of our membership, nor should the Grand Lodge hesitate to keep its' business affairs on a parity with modern business practices. The plan is substantially the same as was proposed last year, excepting the membership of the State alone will be indexed and this will require about half as many cards and consequently the expense will be less than was estimated at that time. Frankly I have. been„so„confldent_y.ou_would-now-approve this-recom.mendation, I have made no provision for the making of a duplicate set of the Eeturns for 1925 as has been the custom for many years. . W e are pleased t o n o t e t h a t t h e G r a n d Lodge has a d o p t e d his r e c o m m e n d a t i o n and authorized t h e p r e p a r a t i o n of such an index from t h e beginning of t h e present fiscal year. As t h e old saying goes, a half loaf is better t h a n none a t all; however, we believe t h e G r a n d Lodge of Ohio could well afford t o employ t h e necessary clerical help a n d s t a r t t h i s work from t h e foundation, j u s t a s we did in K a n s a s . M.-.W.'. Brother J O H N R . F L O T R O N , P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r of Ohio, 'visited our Masonic G r a n d Lodge Building d u r i n g t h e past winter and w i t h o u t d o u b t would sanction t h e suggestion of t h e writer as t o t h e .proper m a n n e r of s t a r t i n g this i m p o r t a n t record of m e m b e r s h i p . • T h e C o m m i t t e e on Jurisprudence concludes their r e p o r t w i t h t h e following words which are indeed apropos in t h e selection of b r e t h r e n "for t h e i m p o r t a n t offices in a local, as well as a Masonic G r a n d B o d y : ' - Those of us who are near to the actual organization of Masonic Bodies, find the most difficult of all tasks the procuring of the services of men lilghly 'qualified to carry on its work, and we should at all times exercise great care ''riot-to'create a spirit in any of our Masonic orgainlzations which would pre^vernt-'bighly- qualified members from rendering to Freemasonry tlie aid, support, and guidance which it needs.
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—OKLAHOMA.
457
A special committee was appointed t o investigate t h e organization and program of t h e Masonic Service Association of t h e United S t a t e s and t o r e p o r t one year hence. W e note t h a t B r o t h e r A N D R E W L . R A N D E L L was present a t this Communication. M.'. W.-. 0 . P . S P E R R A prepared t h e usual R e p o r t on Correspondence, including a review of our 1925 Proceedings. • H e refers t o t h e r e p o r t of P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r STRAIN on " P h y s i c a l Q u a h f i c a t i o n " which subject was referred t o a special committee a n d their r e p o r t appears in our 1926 Proceedings, which r e p o r t was a d o p t e d a n d we believe will settle t h a t question for all t i m e t o come in our jurisdiction. EARL STEWART, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Ironton. H A R R Y S . J O H N S O N , R . - . W . - . G r a n d Secretary, C i n c i n n a t i .
0 . P . S P E R R A , P.-. G . . M . . , Correspondent, R a v e n n a . Next Annual, Cincinnati, October 20, 1926.
OKLAHOMA —1926. Lodges, 437; members, 69,673; n e t gain, 3,011. Guthrie, F e b r u a r y 2 3 , 1 9 2 6 . G I L B E R T B . B R I S T O W , M . - . W . - . G r a n d Master. Interesting r e m a r k s extending a welcome t o t h e G r a n d Lodge were offered b y B r o t h e r F R A N K M C G U I R B , a n d we t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following: AVe see today much error'and sin in the world. This error and this sin can be rectified as soon as men come to realize that GOD is not a mere far-away thing,—that GOD is a Being, that GOD is understanding, that GOD is something that may be seen on every side, in every part of nature, in every revelation of astronomy, GOD is heard and seen by those who have the eyes to see and the understanding to understand. GOD has called upon the people to understand Him as He is, not as something cruel, inhuman and unjust, but as loving, as kindly to us. His children; and that is my conception of the Masonic GOD. The Masonic GOD is one of love, one of justice, one of impartiality, one who wouldn't do a wrong to any of His children and to give to that GOD inhuman characteristics of cruelty, of impartiality, of injustice or of actual crime, to me is a rife perversion of every idea of Deity itself. Brother M A H L O N F . M A N V I L L E , our G r a n d Representative, was present. T h e G r a n d Master, in his preface, among other things h a d t h e following t o s a y : The Office of Grand Master is one of great responsibility and power and when one realizes the great power that is in his hands he becomes really frightened for fear he may exercise his power in an unworthy manner. I have made mistakes, many of them, and may have exercised the power reposed In the ofSce of Grand Master arbitrarily; but I want to assure you here and now that whatever I have done I have believed from the bottom of my heart that It was for the good of our order. I have worked for you as I would want one to work for me, were I to employ him, and that is what I figure you brethren did -when you elected me to the office of Grand Master, You expected, and rightly
458
CORRESPONDENCE—OKLAHOMA.
February,
too, that I would give you the very best effort that I was capable of, and whether or not I have done that is for you to decide. I have traveled 24,474 miles in the State this year and with the exception of the trip made with the Grand Secretary, I have driven my own cars, the Grand Lodge pajang only for the oil and gas burned in the cars. I have not visited as many lodges as I would have lilsed to have visited but if I had visited a lodge every day, including Sunday, it would take alijiost a year and a half to visit every lodge in the State. I have visited 304 Lodges and have met the brethren in District meetings from a majority of the Lodges in the State, but have confined my visits almost exclusively to t h e smaller Lodges of the State. Coming from a small Lodge myself I realize what the need of the little Lodge is, and have tried in my visits to help the fellow, who in my opinion really needs help. I look upon the Lodges of the State as a large family. The littlo Lodges being the younger members of the family wliile the Lodges of the larger cities are the older members and it is only natural for one to try to assist the smaller members of the family rather than the larger one who is amply able to take care of himself. Referring to the Masonic Service Association the Grand Master summed the proposition up in the following words, which are scarcely susceptible of two meanings: When you made your Grand Secretary the Executive Secretary of the Masonic Service you practically took him out of the Grand Secretary's office to attend to the Masonic Service duties imposed upon him, and his salary is $4,200 per year. The per capita tax that we pay is 5 cents per member or in round numbers $3,500 per year. We also pay all expenses of the members of the Committee when called to attend meetings, as. well as when on speaking tours. For this we receive the "Master Mason," a splendid magazine, and the "Short Talk Bulletins," one copy of each of which is sent to every lodge in the tale. 1 have heard many deflnitions of "Masonic Service," one of which was, "proficiency in the Esoteric work," another, "something that you know less about', after listening two hours to explanation by a learned brother, than you did when he began," but to mj'- mind the real definition is, "Masonic Duty," and I am quite sure that you bretlu-en will do your duty without having to pay some organization to allow you to do so. The writer, supported by the policy of our own Grand Lodge, does not favor or lend support to this Association any more than he does to the other thirty-five or forty organizations, most of which predicate their membership on Freemasonry. Grand Lodges are able to take care of their own business affairs and it illy becomes the Masonic Service Association or any other kindred society to suggest or attempt to dictate their legislation or policy. The proposition is so absurd that one can only exclaim "Oh Lord, how long!" The Grand Master was asked whether an applicant who has a stiff knee was disqualified from receiving the degrees. He side-stepped the question by stating that if he was unable to assume all the proper positions he was disqualified. We refer to this as it will be interesting to our own readers in view of our strict adherence to the Ancient Charges and Landmarks of Freemasonry. The Grand Secretary's report is interesting and well prepared, but lacks a very important feature and that is a summary of the member-
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—OKLAHOMA.
459
ship, including the number of lodges on their rolls. This is a matter which really deserves the consideration of the Grand Secretary and we hope that " M O S B " will respond to the prayers and petition of
the undersigned. Under the head of "Masonic Home" we find an interesting article and from it we take pleasure in quoting the following, knowing full well that many of our readers will be interested because of their love for our own institution: Oh, my brethren, let us stop worshipping idols! Let us forget the building, In all its excellent details. Let us forget the furniture, the rocker for which our lodge paid. Put out of our minds forever the name plates on the door and rocker, which our vanity demanded must be there. The Book of the'Law says: " L e t us make man in our image, after our likeness!" "And the Lord GOD formed • man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into liis nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul." Let us as Masons look back of this idol we worship—look back of the building and furniture. Let us find that soul Into which GOD breathed the breath of life—let us consider the human soul for which our building was built and our furniture supplied. Let us Masons scrape the paint, varnish and glitter from the idol we worship, and come into contact with the living soul, created by GOD in His own image, that stands back of our idol. "Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not, for of such is the Kingdom of Heaven." A splendid oration was delivered by Brother WILLIAM SHELLEY ROGERS and we take pleasure in quoting the following from the same: .Many brilliant and consecrated Masonic Intellects, delving into History, legendary, mythological and authentic, have traced the Origin of Freemasonry to many sources. I t seems to l)e coeval with the Human Race. I t is certain that Operative Freemasonry has existed as an actual building institution thru a long course of centuries. But when there were no more Religious I5difices to be built, no more Catherdrals to be erected, interest of both Operative and Honorary members died out, and gradually, after 1717, Operative Masonry wasted away and died, and with it perished that mysterious Secret of Gotlilc Architecture, to the inestimable loss of the world. The architects of today, like the Master Masons who have lost the True "Word, can but use a substitute. About the year 1717 Operative Masonry, having finished its labors so nobly and beautifully executed thru the ages, surrendered the scepter, laid aside the Purple Robe, and descending the Throne passed into the profound silence of the grave with its inscrutable Secret forever enclosed in the motionless heart of the last Master. On the grave of Operative Masonry, with its signs and symbols running thru the mists and the mysteries of the centuries, with its history dating even further back than the monumental lilstory of Egypt extends, there was founded that splendid system of Pure Mora,lity and exalted Philosophy, Speculative Masonry, a t whose shrine we worship a t this hour, whose profound precepts and pure doctrines are veiled in Allegories and concealed in Symbols, the work-' Ing tools of Operative Freemasonry.
* * * * * * There is lying across our path of National progress the dangerous Chasm of Irrellglon, False Religion, Atheism, Doubt, Infidelity and Fatalism. Across this vast chasm Masonry must build the bridge of the True Religion, the Unity of GOD and Man's Personal Responsibility to Him. Not the religion of the Pagans with no hope of Immortality; not that of Mohammedanism and its Paradise of Physical Luxury; not that Religlo-Polltical Hierarchy or Papacy,
460
CORRESPONDENCE—OKLAHOMA.
February.
Catholic or Protestant, that assumes to be the earthly mouthpiece of GOD, that forgives sins, presuming to tell men what they shall think and believe, reducing free men to a condition of mental and spiritual servitude thru Ignorance. Superstition and Fear, and so seeking to subvert the principle of Separation of Church and State: not that intolerant institution that boldly issues its bulls against Freemasonry, anathematizing Masonry and excommunicating Masons as heretics: nor that acting tliru Dictator Mus.soLiNi, which banishes Masonry and Masons from Ital.v. confiscating their property and that of their nonresident friends and sympathizers, while Masonry circulates subscription lists to raise funds with which to finance its eleemosynary institutions.
* * * * * * The Hebrews wandered away from GOD. and today they arc a scattered people without a Nation and without a Flag: the Greeks refused to accept GOD and today we can but say: "Tlie Grandeur that was Greece;" the Romans prostituted Keligion and mocked GOD, and today we can but say, "the Glory that was liome," for they like all Nations that have repudiated GOD, have passed into the silence of Iiistory. And so, Ma'sonry, requiring no sectarian belief, adopting the good of all Moral Codes, that of MANU. ZOKOASTER, CONFucajs. MOSES and MOHOMET. to which it has added the New Law taught by Him who preached and was hated at Capernaum, and who suffered upon the ignominious cross crying the agonized cry of the betrayed and forsaken, jealously guards the Ancient and Primitive Truth and Religion revealed to man in the beginning: that Fatherhood that allows man to worship his GOD according to the dictates of his free and enlightened conscience—that Brotherhood which before it adopts the slogan of the universal brotherhood of man, first demands to know the manhood of the brother—which says not "Brother, what is your creed?" But "Brother, what is your need?" T h e R e p o r t on C o r r e s p o n d e n c e w a s again prepared b y M . ' . W / . THOMAS CHAUNCEY H U M P H R Y
(Brother
H U M P H R Y , please n o t e t h e
spelling of t h e name) a n d a fraternal reference is m a d e t o t h e G r a n d Lodge of K a n s a s for 1925. W e c a n n o t refrain, however, from directing his a t t e n t i o n t o his m i s u n d e r s t a n d i n g as t o t h e conditions between our G r a n d L o d g e and N e w H a m p s h i r e as t h e r e h a s been no process of " k i s s a n d m a k e u p , " a n d w e would s u g g e s t t h a t B r o t h e r H U M P H R Y again r e a d w h a t G r a n d M a s t e r S T R A I N said in his address, and likewise w h a t t h e writer s a i d in his special r e p o r t t o G r a n d Lodge. B r o t h e r S T R A I N ' S offer t o extend t h e fraternal h a n d w a s n o t only refused, b u t he received t h e usual r e b u k e on t h e o t h e r cheek. C L A U D E A. S T U R G E O N , M . - . W . - . G r a n d M a s t e r , McAlester. WILLIAM M . ANDERSON, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary,'Guthrie. THOMAS C . HUMPHRY, P . - . G . - . M . - . , Correspondent, Hugo.
N e x t A n n u a l , M u s k o g e e , F e b r u a r y 8, 1927.
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—OREGON.
461
OREGON —1925. Lodges, 164; members, 28,038; net gain, 1,213. Portland, June 10, 1925. OLIVER P. CosHOW, M.-.W.-. Grand
Master. We regret to note the absence of our Grand Representative at this Communication. The Grand Master has the following to say in submitting his annual address: Upon assuming the Grand East a year ago I expressed the aspiration of advancing the interest of our order. I t was then my hope that the Grand Lodge would have a. constructive and successful year. To what extent this aspiration and hope have been gratified, the record of our worli will reveal. The year has been one marked with harmony and peace among the craft, as a rule. I t has been a year of growth, both in numbers and in service.
The Grand Master, under the head of "Joining Members" favored the dual membership proposition. The Grand Lodge, however, took a different view of the proposition and through their Committee on Resolutions made an adverse report. Dual membership is all right providing that particular jurisdiction has no interest in keeping track of their membership as it absolutely wipes out the possibility of a Grand Secretary keeping account of the membership and being able to report annually the number of members borne on the rolls. In fact there is but one element in the dual membership proposition and that is twaddling sentiment. Under the subject of "Physical Qualifications" the Grand Master ruled that one who had lost his right hand but could use an artificial hand "dexterously," as well as one who was totally blind, was not eligible to receive the degrees. . The Grand Lodge of Oregon is falling in line in the matter of preparing a history of Masonry in their jurisdiction. This work has been accomplished in a number of the eastern Grand Lodges, but farther west it has been neglected. So far as our own jurisdiction is concerned we began this work in 1905 and completed the history of the first fifty years for our Semi-Centennial Celebration in 1906. From the oration delivered at this Communication we are pleased to quote the following: Freemasonry is not, in a specific sense, an altruistic or an eleemosynary institution; but it is the obvious intent and purpose of Freemasonry that all Masons shall be benevolent, charitable and tolerant toward their fellowmen. Devotion to family, loyalty to friends and brotherly love and the. practice of charity among Masons are axiomatic in Masonic teaching. But Masonry also teaches that men of every race and of every clime are one great family, created by one Almighty Father and united by the bond of imlversal brotherhood. Masonry further teaches that as the form of the Lodge denotes the universality of the institution, so should a Mason's charity be equally extensive. Masonry, therefore. If its declarations be not meaningless, is far more than an exclusive
462
COBBESFONDENCE—OREGON.
February,
fraternity seeking the mutual and common welfare of its members. It is to the credit and glory of Masonry that its practice has conformed, in notable degree, to its professions concerning the solidarity of the human race. AVhile it has ever disdained to resort to proselytism, it has always welcomed into its ranks worthy and honorable men irrespective of race and creed and opinion. And as Masons are taught to live in harmony and unity and arc admonished to square their actions by the Square of virtue and morality, so Masonry envisions the reign of peace and good will among men and hopefully looks forward to the universal acceptance of the Golden Rule. Masonry holds fast to its faith in human botterment and social progress and places its hope and trust In the growth and prevalence of the ameliorating sentiment of benevolence and the harmonizing spirit of toleration. Charity, as taught and enjoined by Masonry, is not the mere dole of almsgiving; it is charity in the larger and better sense of Not what we give, but what we share. For the gift, without the giver, is bare. Charity should bo truly helpful, constructive and beneflcial. It should bless both him who gives and him who receives, and, above all else, it should minister to the self-respect and independence of the recipient and help liim to help himself. I t is very gratifying, my brethren, that Oregon Masons are directing their institutional measures of relief and charity in that spirit and with that purpose. For thus is true Masonic charity inculcated by example as well as by precept. . « * * * « * It has been well and forcefully said that "all higher motives, ideals, conceptions, sentiments in a man are of no account if they do not come forward to strengthen lilm for the better discharge of tho duties which devolve upon him in the ordinary affairs of life." The principles and ideals of Masonry, therefore, have real value and power in the individual Mason's life only so far as they enable liim to recognize and discharge the duties of the fundamental, relationships of human existence. If a Mason has merely superficial interest in the institution, if his Masonic-activities are perfunctory, if his knowledge of Masonry is practically limited to that which he receives as an occasional onlooker at initiatory ceremonies or to that which results from mere ritualistic proficiency , if he does not comprehend the actual and potential relation of Masonry to individual improvement, to social progress, to civic welfare and to spiritual development, he will, perforce, fail to imbibe the true spirit and to apprehend the real purposes of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masonry. Masonry oilers no magic formula for the solution of life's problems, no royal secret for the acquisition of wisdom, no potent tallsrnan for the attainment of happiness. It relies solely upon those available means and those practical methods which conduce to truer manhood, to liigher purpose and t o fuller achievement, and which help and strengthen in the discharge of the paramount duties t o self, to others, to coimtry and to GOD. To be true to one's better self, to do unto others what one would that others should do unto him, to 'love one's fellowmen sincerely," to 'love one's country with a respect, tender, holy and profound," to "love GOD with all one's heart and soul and mind and strength and one's neighbor as one's self"—that, in epitome, is the real essence, the true intent and the ultimate purpose of the tenets and doctrines of Freemasonry.
We take the following from an excellent Report on Necrology, believing it will be interesting to our readers: We see distinctly vast store houses of knowledge all around us in nature, with the stores locked and the keys almost witliin our grasp, but so far out of reach tiiat we can never hope to possess them in the present life. We behold ten thousand suns and planets, with their unlimited treasures of scientific
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—OREGON.
463
information, though by aid of our best earthly facilities we are enabled barely to view their shining surfaces; and as we peer intently through our glasses to learn, is possible, more of their hidden mysteries, they twinkle provokingly at our puny efforts, and mock derisively the abrupt limits of our circumscribed powers. I t is therefore self evidently false and absurd to say that the real student of science would not m s h to know as much a t least, about the glorious Pleiades, the burning Aldebaran, the cold Bootes, or the dazzling SIrius as he loiows about his own earthly planet, could such knowledge, by any possibility be obtained; while the true scientist would welcome with joy even the faintest hope, the dimmest prospect, of an achievement so transcendent as some means by which a mere fraction of such knowledge could be gained. Yet, all this immeasurable knowledge and inconceivably more, is held out to the scientific investigator in the single conception of the immortality of the soul and what it implies. As a proof that a knowledge of these secrets of the distant worlds suspended in space, now so completely beyond our grasp, is intensely desirable, we have only to observe with what eager and almost sleepless vigils the astronomer watches through lus telescope the indistinct surface of our poor frozen moon, trying to catch a glimpse of some yet undiscovered crater or mountain peak, and thus to unravel a trifle more of her available but almost useless secrets, and which at best leave the mind in the wretchedness of confused .uncertainty! Look how he scans the rings of Saturn, or puzzles over the problems involved in the moons of Mars! And witness with what cheerfulness he spends his thousands of dollars and months of precious time in trying to solve the comparatively trifling problems of the existence of an inter-Mercurial planet! And even then, what a contemptible supply of knowledge does he acquire with all this wear of nerve and strain of intellect! A single glance of the soul's immortal telescope, If there be any truth in the hypothesis of a future life, would unfold ten thousand such problems, which must remain hidden from man throughout the endless cycles of earthly generations, if death is to end all. 'Yet, astonishing to con- • template, our greatest investigators of nature and most industriously interested seekers after her hidden treasures of knowledge, wliile realizing their own puny efforts, seem to take not the slightest interest In, or to have the least desire for, the rational proof of the possibility of a state of being wliich will so absolutely open to the mind all these now unsearchable mysteries! On the contrary, they even earnestly and almost bitterly oppose every argument which tends to demonstrate the probability of such a glorious consummation. The Grand Lodge paused long enough to receive a committee from the Grand Chapter of the Eastern Star. This seems to be a growing habit in some Grand Jurisdictions and we fraternally refer the proposition to our English brethren. The Grand Lodge of Oregon formally withdrew recognition from the Grand Orient of France. This was another case of sentiment and we can consistently say " I told you so," and refer to the action of our Grand Lodge in 1919. The Report on Correspondence was prepared by M.\ W.'. Brother DAVID P. MASON, and in it we find an excellent review of our 1925 Proceedings. Commenting on the writer's position to withhold comment, preferring to quote liberally from Grand Masters' addresses, orations and reports, he had the following to say: This is the position most correspondents take now, but when we wrote our first report 15 years ago, only two correspondents beside ourselves refrained from "back talk." Most of it was friendly repartee.
464
CORRESPONDENCE—PANAMA.
February,
The writer can only exclaim: Alas, Brother MASON, conditions in^Masonry are not what they were in our earlier days, as we were not then confronted with the almost innumerable "isms", associations, clubs and the like, all predicating their membership on Ancient Craft Masonry. Within the writer's recollection, which goes back almost forty-five years, we distinctly call to mind that the presence of cards in any lodge room or ante room in our jurisdiction was sufficient cause for the arrest of a charter. Today such practice is extremely mild compared with other practices in and about a Masonic Lodge, all of which afford excellent opportunity for comment, yet it would only result in bringing about abuse and unkind remarks from some Correspondents, who are disposed to put an entirely different construction upon our time honored institution, believing it is a stepping-stone to all sorts of outside organizations and purposes for which it was never intended. PERCY R . KELLY, M . - . W . ' . Grand Master, Albany.
D. RuFUS CHENEY, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Portland. DAVID P . MASON, Correspondent, Albany.
Next Annual, Portland, June 16, 1926.
PANAMA —1925. Lodges, 8; members, ; net gain. I^The Annual Communication was held in Panama,"June'lO, 1924, with VICTOR JBSURUN as Grand Master. The Proceedings are void of any synopsis or summary of membership and we are therefore unable to include that information with this report. It would seem that our Panama brethren would strive to imitate the forms used in other Grand Lodges in the matter of preparing statistical tables. I t is particularly important with a Grand Lodge so young as the Grand Lodge of Panama. Several Communications were held during the year, but nothing transpired of importance, other than to their own jurisdiction. A Communication was held on February 11, 1925, with Brother VICTOR JESURUN presiding. At this Communication the election of Grand Officers took place and the Proceedings list the names of the brethren for whom votes were cast, indicating how many were received by each. Another Communication was held on March 2, 1925, and March 7, 1925. VICTOR JESURUN, M.-.W.-. Grand Master, Panama. D. LESLIE SASSO, R.-. W.'. Grand Secretary, Panama.
1926-27.
COBBESPONDENCE—PENNSYLVANIA.
465
PENNSYLVANIA —1925. Lodges, 559; members, 204,111; net gain, 4,271. A Quarterly Communication was held March 4, 1925, at which a brief report from the Grand Secretary was submitted and likewise reference made to a bequest from Brother SAMUEL DAVt s. The report from the Committee on By-Laws was likewise received and adopted. The next Quarterly Communication was held June 3, 1925. The Grand Master read a deed of gift from Mrs. KATE E . SELL, widow of E.". W.'. Past Grand Master JOHN S . SELL, who died December 24, 1922. The provisions of the will are as follows: Know all men by these piesenls. That I, KATE B . SELL, widow of JOHN S .
SELL, deceased, desiring to erect a building on the grounds belonging to the Eight Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania, and Masonic Jurisdiction Thereunto Belonging, at Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania, as a memorial to my deceased husband, do hereby give to the Eight Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania, and Masonic Jurisdiction Thereunto Belonging, the sum of one hundred thousand (SIOO.OOO) dollars to be used and applied by the Committee on Masonic Homes of the said Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania, and Masonic Jurisdiction Thereunto Belonging, in erecting a Chapel on the Grounds at Elizabethtown, in accordance with plans to be approved by me, and under a contract awarded to the lowest responsible'bidder. And 1 further covenant, undertake, promise and agree, that I will, upon the completion of the said building pay to the said Eight Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Most Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania, and Masonic Jursidiction Thereunto Belonging, the further sum of twenty-five thousand dollars ($2.5,000), to be expended in equipping and furnishing the said building for religious services. The said gifts are made upon the understanding that the said building shall be designated (and marked with an appropriate tablet) as the JOHN S. SELL MEMORIAL CHAPEL, and that it shall be open for religious services to the
Ministers of any and all Churches. A remarkable donation for a deserving cause. The gift was by resolution, in proper and complimentary terms, received by the Grand Lodge. On September 2, 1925, another Quarterly Communication was held and reference is made to the Anniversary of the Grand Lodge of Ireland and the Masonic Festival of the United Grand Lodge of England. The latter proposition contemplates the erection of a memorial Masonic Temple at a cost of one million pounds. The Grand Lodge, desiring to have some part in this enterprise, appropriated $1,000.00. Of course this contribution was not requested, but the Grand Lodge expressed a desire to be permitted to join in a small way in this splendid enterprise.
466
CORRESPONDENCE—PENNSYLVANIA.
February,
The next Quarterly was held December 2, 1925. The question of constructing a new Masonic Temple was taken up at this Communication and the summing up, in the form of a resolution, is as follows: Resolved, That the Grand Officers be, and they are hereby authorized and directed, to select a suitable location as a site for the erection of a new Masonic Temple, and purchase said site on behalf of the Grand Lodge at such price and on such terms as In the judgment of said Grand Officers they may deem proper, and for the best interests of the Grand Lodge. And be it Further Resolved, That the Commissioners of the Sinking Fund of the Grand Lodge be, and they are hereby authorized, and directed, with the approval of the Committee on Finance, and the Grand OfBcers, to pay over to the Grand Secretary, on the request of the Grand Officers, the amounts required for the purchase of such site as may be determined by the unanimous vote of said Grand Offlcers. And be it Further Re'olced, That the Grand Secretary and the Grand Treasurer be, and they are hereby, authorized and directed to make payments on account of the purchase of such site upon the request, and approval, of the said Grand OfBcers. The report on the library shows that the expenses during the past year were a little over $12,000.00. I t contains a list of all donations received during the past year. We notice from the report of their Masonic Home that they now have in the library at that institution over 13,000 volumes. The Home family represents sixteen denominations of worship, and we take it that proper services are provided from time to time for all of them. On December 19, 1925, an Emergent Communication was held, a t ' w h i c h ' t h e GraM'MasteT exeixised his p'reFo'gffiv^e^by'liiaK^^ Mason at sight and for the information of our readers we quote the following: An Entered Apprentice Mason's Lodge was opened, when GEOKGE WHAB- . TON PEPPER was introduced and received the first degree in Freemasonry. The Entered Apprentice Mason's Lodge was closed, and a Fellow Craft Mason's Lodge was opened, when GEORGE WHARTON PEPPER was again introduced and passed to the degree of a Fellow Craft Mason. The Fellow Craft Mason's Lodge was closed and a Master Mason's Lodge was opened, when GEORGE WHARTON PEPPER was introduced the third time, and raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason. The Annual Communication was held December 28, 1925, at which time the Grand Master presented his annual address and we are pleased to quote the following from his preface: From a small beginning in 1730, like the tiny acorn, we have grown until today our Fraternity stands in all the splendor of an acknowledged monarch, deep rooted in the historic soil of our Commonwealth, with its branches reaching out and touching the remotest corners Proud of the splendid history and the equally splendid work accomplished during its almost two centuries of active and zealous endeavor, but prouder still of the fact that we have kept faith with those pioneers who laid for us the foundations of Masonry in Pennsylvania, as well as those who have followed in
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—PENNSYLVANIA.
467
their footsteps, in adhering strictly to the fundamentals of Masonry and its Ancient Usages, Customs and Landmarks, we turn to register on CLIO'S scroll the record of the passing year. Of outside organizations he has t h e following to s a y : In my address of a year ago the attention of Grand Lodge was called to the many outside organizations formed within the Jurisdiction and predicated upon Masonry as a necessary qualification to membership, together with the consequent problems attending this situation. Without in any wise reflecting upon organizations of this character now in the field, I am clearly of the opinion the time has come to halt further development along tliese lines. It is my thought that the time is ripe for the enactment of regtilatory measures that will deny to members the right to accept membership in any outside organizations, predicating its membership on Masonry, excepting any such of these organizations as may at this time be in existence, unless permission for the creation of such organization shall have first been obtained of this Grand Lodge. This would put a stop to a growing tendency which is calculated to weaken the influence of Masonry and leave tothe future the solution of problems that may arise because of the existence of organizations already formed and now in operation. T h e subject of " A t h l e t i c s " will no d o u b t be interesting t o o u r Kansas Masons and we are pleased t o quote t h e following: All forms of clean athletic sports are to be admired and in the proper time and place deserve to be encouraged. It would seem, however, that as a nation we are running wild on the subject with the result that they are finding their way into our Lodges. Recently I was obliged to call a halt on a number of Lodges which had formed, in a given District, a Masonic Bowling League. The use of the word "Masonic" or the name "Freemasonry," it has been repeatedly decided by my predecessors, is not permitted for outside functions by any social club or association, and I do not believe from my knowledge of the rivarly which generaly prevails in such contests that the spirit of brotherly love and goodfeUowship will be either maintained or promoted. The whole tendency will be to engender a class spirit Injurious to the welfare of the Lodges and this clannish spirit in many cases will lead to other problems which will sooner or later be reflected in the Lodges. All in ail I can see no good resulting from such forms of amusement, nor the necessity of connecting the name of our Fraternity therewith. I have, therefore, decided that such organizations are clearly contrary to past decisions and must be strictly forbidden. The G r a n d Lodge is not unmindful of t h e B i - C e n t e n a r y of M a sonry in this c o u n t r y as indicated from t h e following r e p o r t on t h a t subject: Grand Lodge should keep prominently in the foreground the date of the birth of authorized Masonry in the United States, June .5, 1730, marking the issuance of the first Grand Lodge Warrant Ijy ttie Grand Lodge of England and embracing New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. While it is doubtless true that this date may not mark the origin of the earliest Masonic Lodges, j'et it does fix the period of time when there was formed a regular system of Masonic control. While the day may seem somewhat afar off. its importance is of such magnitude that it would seem to be the part of msdom to anticipate its approach, thus giving to the Masonic student time in which to make proper research and suitable preparation for a worthy celebration of such an epoch making event—A Two Hundredth Anniversary.
468
CORRESPONDENCE—PENNSYLVANIA.
February
Under Masonic Education the Grand Master had the following to say, among other things: We now have a corps of one hundred lecturers, representative members of their professions and vocations, many of them having enviable records of Masonic service. These Brethren are rendering invaluable service to this Grand Lodge in bringing to the Lodges the measure of Masonic truth that will result in increased interest in the Fraternity. During the year these lecturers have responded to numerous calls to service and from reports of Masters and Secretaries we learn that the attendance on the part of the Brethren was increased, the interest marked and the demand for further lectures general. Lodges should remember that these authorized lectures are only to be <lelivered within tyled doors, and not during the hour of refreshment. Brethren, this service is at your command, without cost, save that of the barest expense. T h e need is very apparent generally throughout the Jurisdiction and I know of no better or more effective way to create and maintain interest in our Lodges than by combining with our present program of work and refreshment, that of education, thereby not only giving to the membership an intelligence that will make them more responsive to duty, but will tend to develop our younger Brethren for future leadership. As a matter of historic information concerning their magnificent Temple we quote the following: The present Temple was dedicated in 1873 at which time our entire membershJp was but 37,546, with sixty-two Lodges being located in Philadelphia. Today our membership is a little over 200,000 with eighty-two Lodges meeting in this Temple. Many of our Lodges are entirely too large and yet we cannot urge an increase in the number of Lodges unless we have increased facilities In which to house them. Further, - Grand Lodge has long since outgrown this room and should as early as practicable provide a suitable room in which to transact its business. _ _ Grand Lodge" was never so well situated financially to provide a new place of meeting, without placing any burden on the Craft. Let us hope, therefore, that appropriate action will be taken at an early date and that the new Temple when finally erected, will, in addition to its increased accommodations, be in every way a beautiful monument to Masonry in this Grand Jurisdiction. The Grand Master reports the names of five rejected applicants who have since received their degrees in some other jurisdiction. This is made necessary because the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania maintains perpetual jurisdiction over rejected material and where another Grand Lodge receives a petition and confers the degrees on such rejected applicant the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, through the address of the Grand Master, submits a list, which is a notice to all Lodges of Pennsylvania not to admit any of these to membership or as a visitor. An interesting conclusion was presented and we quote the following as a part thereof: Let us resolve, as never before, to be loyal to the teachings of our great Fraternity and remember that just in proportion to our knowledge and practice •of Masonry, will we be examples of its virtues, manifesting in our daily living a right relationship toward all things that tend to the building up of a healthy home life, a generous support of the church of our choice and an abiding faith in our Government In its every endeavor to uphold and maintain constituted law and authority.
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—PHILIPPINE
ISLANDS.
469
Unlike any other Grand Jurisdiction, their Annual Proceedings, contain two addresses, one from the retiring Grand Master and one from the newly elected Grand Master. Brother THOMAS F . PENMAN presented the usual Report on Correspondence and we notice he has referred to the address of Grand Master STRAIN concerning the Kansas-New Hampshire matter, and . after quoting the same he has the following to say: The next move Is up to New Hampshire. It would seem that with a. mutual desire for conciliation, there should be no trouble to get tcgether andl dispose of the matter in a manner satisfactory to both parties. " L e t it be done; with speed!"
We regret to say that the proffered hand of brotherly love was. not only not accepted but the Grand Lodge of Kansas received a smite on the other cheek. He also refers to Grand Master STRAIN'S reference to "Physical Qualifications" and we can only refer him to our 1926 Proceedings where the question, we believe, is settled for all time to come and Kansas remains just where it always has been, a strict adherer to' the Ancient Charges and Landmarks of the Fraternity. He feels that the writer of this report should inform himself on the subject of the Klan endeavoring to graft itself onto the Masonic organization. No, we do not agree with Brother PENMAN for several reasons: First, we are too old to take up any new quarrels and second; so far as our jurisdiction is concerned the Klan never gave us very much trouble and at present is practically a dead issue. The writer knows nothing about this organization and cares less. The policy of; our Grand Lodge in matters of this kind is to remain silent. WILLIAM H . HAMILTON, R . . W . . Grand Master, Philadelphia., JOHN A. PERRY, R.-. W . ' . Grand Secretary, Philadelphia. THOMAS F . PENMAN, Correspondent, Philadelphia.
Next Annual, Philadelphia, December 27, 1926.
PHILIPPINE ISLANDS —1926. Lodges, 99; members, 6,837; net gain, 49. Manila, January 26, 1926.
CHRISTIAN W . ROSENSTOCK, M . . W . - .
Grand Master. Kansas was represented by Brother HARVEY A. BORDNER, a n d
who is likewise Grand Standard Bearer of the Grand Lodge. We notice our Philippine brethren are in fraternal relations with the Grand Lodges of Spain and Switzerland, as well as one in Bavaria, and still it anything worse, the Grand Lodge of Italy. As we are in fraternal relations with the Grand Lodge of the Philippine Islands we feel warranted in suggesting that the question of continuing their fraternal relations be thoroughly investigated.
470
CORRESPONDENCE—PHILIPPINE
ISLANDS.
February,
The Grand Master submits his annual report and we are pleased to quote the following: Not many years ago, a Masonic I-odge was looked upon »1th much distrust by many residents of this country, owing to the antagonism of Church and State in days gone by. This feeling continued during manj^ years, especially among the women, who were more under the influence of the clergy than the men, and for a time many of our brothers had their troubles and found it hard to convince their wives, sisters, mothers and daughters, that Masons are really human beings, working for the general good of humanity, and not demons, with the single purpose to destroy order and authority and to kill the Church. Our friends in America and other Occidental countries would hardly believe the many amusing tilings that were told about Masons in the PhJlippines in the days of yore. Many of our older brothers assembled here today will, no doubt, recall personal experiences with the female members of their families. All this, T am pleased to say. is fast becoming a thing of the past. Many of our lodges are now holding public installations. These public meetings usually include musical programs and dancing. It is very gratifying to me to tell you that these meetings are well attended by the women of the communities where our lodges are located, as well as by men who are not members of our Fraternity.
They adopted the following resolution which might well be imitated by other Grand Lodges: I'esolved, That the use of the word " P R O P A N E " in either English, or Spanish, when reference is made to persons not Masons, has no proper place in -modern Masonry, and is hereby condemned and prohibited.
The Grand Master is interested in the erection of Masonic Temples ^nd has the following suggestion to make: In order that the lodges which desire to build their own temples may have the necessary aid and advice. I recommend that the Grand Lodge authorizes the formation of a permanent comrnittee on building plans for Masonic Temples. This committee should prepare, or have prepared, several standard plans for Masonic Temples, with the necessary speciflcations and estimates of costs in the different parts of the Philippines. Suggestions could be made by this committee concerning the flnancing of such undertakings and legal forms could be furnished for use as models in organizing Temple Associations, such as forms of constitutions and by-laws, mortgage forms, mortgage bond' forms, building contract forms, etc.
He speaks of the use of Masonic titles in the following way: The attention of this Grand Lodge is called to the unauthorized use of the word "Masonic" in connection with the names of societies, clubs and other organizations. The Grand Lodge is the Supreme Masonic authority in the Philippine Islands and it is improper for any society or organization to prefix the word *' Masonic" as part of its name without the authority or consent of the Grand Lodge. No society, club or organization of any kind, even though it be composed entirely of Masons, should include the word "Masonic" in its name without authority from this Grand Lodge. I recommend that the action of the brethren who incorporated " T h e Masonic Hospital for Crippled Children," in using the word "Masonic" as a part of the name of that institution, be approved by the Grand Lodge, and that authority be granted for continuing the use of the word "Masonic" in the name of that corporation.
1926-27.
COBBESPONDENCE—PHILIPPINE
ISLANDS.
471
Under "Clandestine Masonry" we quote the following: When these clandestine bodies were first organized, our Grand Lodge was very much concerned, and ah effort was made to suppress them. This effort only served to spur on the activities of our imitators. During the past two years we have left them alone, and I believe that interest in tliem is now on the wane.
* * * * * * • When the misguided members of these local clandestine lodges go into foreign countries, and they realize that they are not received as regular Masons, they will walie up to the fact that their organization is only a local club or society, falsely representing itself to be masonic, and that their associations are therefore limited to their own members. As this fact becomes known among them and as tlie non-masons where these spurious bodies are worliing learn the difference between the genuine and the imitation, such clandestine lodges will naturally dry up and fade away.
Concerning the practice of professional thirty-third degree teams doing work in a Symbolic Lodge, he had the following to say: It has been brought to my attention that on occasions, when degrees have been conferred in some of our lodges by special teams composed of members of the Scottish Kite Bodies, programs and invitations were printed showing that the teams were composed of Thirty-third Degree and K.C.C.H. Masons, or Masons of other degrees and titles foreign to those used in SymboUc Lodges. I do not believe that this practice should be permitted in this Jurisdiction, and I recommend that this Grand Lodge take action in disapproval thereof. •
The following resolution concerning the promulgation of a Ritual was adopted: RESOLVED, That the Grand Master instruct the Custodians of the Work to prepare in triplicate keys to our rituals, one in English and one in Spanish, clearly setting forth the position and movements of the oflBcers and other details of the ceremonies of the three degrees. That as soon as these keys have been prepared, the Grand Master shall order one copy of each turned over to himself, one copy to the Grand Secretary, and one to the Grand Lectiu-er, for safekeeping. After such distribution, it shall be absolutely forbidden to any of the three custodians of said rituals to make any correction in the same should an error be discovered, except in the presence and with the consent of the three, and then such corrections shall be made in all copies.
The newly elected and installed Grand Master addressed the Grand Lodge and we take pleasure in quoting the following from his address: Masonry seeks no quarrel with any one, and it shall be our efforts, in our relations with the outsiders, to settle whatever difficulty, may arise by the application of the same principles of brotherly love, truth and justice that we would apply to Internal questions, whenever consistent vntb the fundamental principles, tenets and dignity of the Craft in general and of our sovereign grand jurisdiction in particular. But we shall always stand Arm and uncompromising, both in Internal as well as in external affairs, .in the defense and preservation of those fundamental principles and tenets as expressed and expoimded in our constitution, regulations and ancient landmarks. Such Is the mission of Ancient Craft Masonry everywhere, and particularly here: to prepare men Individually, so that they In turn may shed the benefl-
472
CORRESPONDENCE—PRINCE
EDWARD
ISLAND.
February.
cent rays of the light it diffuses in their individual and everyday contact with the rest of mankind: to make of its members men who will always subdue their passions to the dictates of their reason; fearless men of conviction, who mil ever be'ready to support the cause of right and justice and condemn the wrong wherever it may be found; men who, with faith in GOD and a firm belief in those self-evident truths taught within our lodges, will go forth and preach them outside, in words as well as in deeds. These fundamental concepts and tenets of Free Masonry should ever guide us in the continuation of the magnificent work already performed here by those who have preceded us. T h e R e p o r t on Correspondence w a s p r e p a r e d b y Brother G E O R G E R. H A R V E Y a n d we a r e pleased t o find a reference t o our 1925 Proceedings. H e comments on our K a n s a s - N e w H a m p s h i r e proposition, although h e states t h a t t h e w a y it w a s presented b y this committee was precisely as he u n d e r s t o o d it heretofore. W e will n o t assume t o a r g u e t h e proposition with our good b r o t h e r , b u t only refer him to a more- careful reading of t h e w r i t e r ' s r e p o r t dealing with t h e N e w H a m p s h i r e m a t t e r a n d we believe t h a t he will t h e n " a b o u t f a c e " a n d t a k e a n opposite view t h a n t h a t expressed in this review. FRANCISCO A. D E L G A D O , M . . W . - . G r a n d M a s t e r , Manila. N E W T O N G . GOMFORT, R . ' . W . - . G r a n d Secretary, Manila. GEORGE R . HARVEY, P . . G . - . M . . , Correspondent.
N e x t A n n u a l , Manila, J a n u a r y 2 5 , 1927.
PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND-1926. -Lodges, 15; members, 1,177; n e t gain, 8. A Special C o m m u n i c a t i o n w a s held in C h a r l o t t e t o w n , April 2 1 , 1926, for t h e purpose of a t t e n d i n g t h e funeral of their late P a s t Grand Master,
M.-. W . \ E D W A R D W I L L I A M M A C K A Y .
T h e Annual Communication w a s held a t Charlottetown, 23,1926.
JOHN F . MARTIN, M.-.W.-. Grand
June
Master.
B r o t h e r W . G. M C D O N A L D , o u r G r a n d Representative, was present. F r o m t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s address we a r e pleased t o q u o t e t h e following: During my year of ofBce as your Grand Master I have come short of satisfjing myself in the performance of my duties and obligations through hlnderances which were unavoidable, bu6 I have done the best I could under the circumstances. I visited all the Lodges in the Jurisdiction excepting two, and was received on every occasion with the honours and courtesy due to the position of Grand Master. I found the Lodges in a prosperous and healthy condition and though a lull might be anticipated after the e.xcitement connected with the celebration of our semi-centennial celebration last year, it is pleasing to find that we have made a net gain tliis year in our membership.
* * * * * *
I have had no official decisions to render! This satisfactory condition has been in no small measure due to the diligence and tact of our very efficient R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Bro. Capt. ICEMP, who keeps such a watchful eye
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—PRINCE
ED WARD
ISLAND.
473
upon the compass and sees that the work of his highly important office is always done in ship shape. Altogether we liave much reason to be grateful to our Heavenly Father for all the mercies and beneftts which have come from His bountiful hand to cur lovely Island home during the year that is past. We have had peace within our borders and plenty in our stores. But while peace practically prevails over the world there is a seething unrest in many lands that give cause for serious concern. "We hail with joy the efforts Ijeing put forth by good and wise men in endeavoring in many ways to secure the peace of the world, and trust that the time is rapidly drawing near "when war's drums will beat no longer, and men shall learn the art of war no more." Would that the sublime principles of Masonry might prevail in the councils of every iiation and that its rulers would submit ttiemselves to Divine guidance acting on the belief in the Fatherhood of GOD and the Brotherhood of Man, realizing that notliing but an acceptance of the inspired teachiug of the Book of Books can heal the maladies of this sin-cur.=ed world. In observing the state of society around us we see much to be regretted. We deplore the disregard for law and the decadence of morality noticeable in too many instances. The mad rusli for pleasure, the unwholesome struggle for riches and the craving for the gratification of every desire of the heart are leading many from the paths of honour and rectitude. Is there no way in which we as Masons can help the youth of our land escape the snares and allurements wliich encounter them on every hand? T h e G r a n d Lecturer, in p r e s e n t i n g his report, h a d t h e following to say: I t was noticeable, however, lodges whose officers attended lodges of instruction or degree practices were able to execute the degree with a smoothness and precision that was highly commendable to the lodge. I would strongly recommend that previous to any degree work that tlie officers meet and under the guidance cf a well informed Past Master, and practice carefully the work to be done. It lequires constant attention to detail and expression to fully bring out the great beauty that is in Masonic Ritual. I find not a little diffidence among some members of the craft in visiting sister lodges being afraid that they might fail to prove themselves or pass a very poor examination. This difficulty would be partially overcome if a t Lodges of instruction or in lodge assembled, particular attention was paid at intervals to the correct procedure in regard to the examination of Master Masons for the instruction not only of the brethren who may visit other lodges but also of the younger Past Masters who may be called upon to conduct such examination.
There is no Report on Correspondence. JOHN M . NICHOLSON, M.-. W . \ Grand Master, Summerside. ERNEST KEMP, R.-. W . ' . Grand Secretary, Charlottetown.
Next Annual, Kensington, June 22, 1927.
474
CORRESPONDENCE—QUEENSLAND.
February
QUEENSLAND-1925. Lodges, •—; members, ; net gain, . At the Quarterly Communication held in Brisbane, June 4, 1924, M.'.W.'. Brother R. N . F. QUINN was duly elected Grand Master.
At the Special Communication of July 16, 1925, the Grand Master elected was installed. g^ Under an amendment to the Constitution the Grand Master may appoint Assistant Grand Superintendents of Workings who correspond, in a measure,^ to our District Deputy Grand Masters. We take the following from the report of their Board of General Purposes: Next year the Board will have to consider very seriously what means they propose to adopt at the Installation of the Grand Master, so that when it Is all over it may be looked back upon as being a huge success. Surely, it is not too much to ask all members of Grand Lodge and the brethren to attend the Installation ceremony of the Grand Master once a year, no matter who the occupant of that high ofHce may be. After all, it must be remembered and recognised tliat he is the Grand Master Mason of Queensland and is therefore a member of every one of your Lodges.
The following amendment to their laws was adopted: A candidate for initiation shall not, except under dispensation, which may be granted by the Grand Master under exceptional circumstances, be initiated at the meeting at which he is ballotted for, but may be initiated at the next regular meeting of the Lodge, or at any meeting subsequent thereto, provided it is held witliin 12 months of his election.
*
* * * * *
I t is also unfair to the candidate to bring him along and keep him in waiting outside, as has occurred on more than one occasion, and for the Lodge then to decide not to admit him, and to send Mm away home again.
The writers of the Reports on Correspondence would greatly appreciate it if the Grand Secretary of Queensland would include with his Proceedings a synopsis of returns, or at least a summary of membership, together with the name and address of the Grand Master and Grand Secretary. As their Proceedings now stand one must read the journal from beginning to end to secure sufficient information on which to base a report, and then the writer who prepares the tables, as shown at the end of this report, must write to secure information concerning the membership in Queensland.
1926-27.
CoBBESPONDENCE—QUEBEC.
475
QUEBEC —1926. Lodges, 82; members, 14,152; net gain, 449. Quebec, February 10, 1926.
WILLIAM J. EWING, M.-.W.-. Grand
Master. M.\ W.\ Brother E. A. EVANS, our Grand Representative, was
present. We quote the following as a preliminary to the opening of their Grand Lodge: R. Wor. Bro. "VV. C. HAGAR, Deputy Grand Master, having taken his position and ascertaining that the various stations in Grand Lodge were occupied, and that a constitutional number of Lodges were represented, called Grand Lodge to order, whereupon the Most Worshipful the Grand Master, preceded by his Grand Director of Ceremonies and District Deputy Grand Masters, and accompanied by the Most Worshipful the Past Grand Masters present, entered, and having assumed his chair, the Grand Lodge was opened i n AMPLE FOIiM.
Frorii t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s interesting address we t a k e pleasure in quoting t h e following: I would especially welcome those brethren who, to-day are meeting ^vith us for the first time, and request them to follow closely all our Proceedings, and make themselves familiar'with the workings of Grand Lodge, so that when they will be called upon to take a more responsible part in our counsels, they will find themselves fitted to do so. I would also remind them that they are the future rulers of the Craft, and that no man can properly rule, unless he has first learned to obey.
The Grand Master attended two of their annual church services, which seems to be a custom in that jurisdiction. At these services, neighboring lodges are invited and join with the local brethren in attending the service. Rather peculiar it seems to the writer that a Grand Master should formally report attendance at the dedication of a Shriner's hospital. May. we venture to ask by what right and under what authority a Shrine can usurp any of the ceremonies prescribed by Ancient Craft Masonry, most of which have been practiced for several hundred years. One might ask whether the participants are really Masons first or Shriners first. A proper respect for Ancient Craft Masonry would have prompted the powers that be in the Shrine to have invited the Grand Lodge of Quebec to have performed this ceremony. Apropos to this subject we are pleased to quote the following from the Grand Master's conclusion: Masonry is but a form of Service, and should be judged, not so much by the progress It is making, either numerically or financially, as by the amount of SERVICE it is rendering, 1st, to those composing its membership, 2nd, to the community in which it is placed, and 3rd, to mankind in general.
476
CORRESPONDENCE—QUEBEC.
February,
Under the subject of "Builders of Destiny" the Grand Chaplain delivered a most scholarly address, and we take pleasure in quoting the following: How large the work of the mason bulks in the picturesque legends and folk-lore of pre-historic timas. NI.MKOD. the mighty hunter before the Lord who built the oldest cities of Assyria. The men of Shinar, who on the Babylonian plain, reared an edifice of ambition and defiance of the Great Architect himself and left behind them nothing but the story of Baljel. Then, as the dawn of history begins, we find its first} records written in the indestructible masonry of those Egyptian Kings whose work, for its stability and massive strength, is still the wonder of the world. Taught by the craftsmen of Egypt and of Tyre, the men of Tsrael reared that splendid Temple in which there centre so many of the traditions of our craft—a shrine of the pure and ethical monotheism—belief in one Great, Supreme and Holy Artificer and Ruler of the Universe, which, inherited from ancient Israel has become the foundation stone of our modern civilization. Then, greatest of all for beauty and for charm, the creative genius of the Greeks produced tliose works which exiiibit the ne plus ultra of the builder's art, which are the three great architectural orders of which are commended to the study of the initiate in our speculative craft. All tliat is beautiful, impressive and abiding in modern architecture has Ijeen evolved from the work of these ancient builders, the pioneers of masonry. Of all the handiwork of man, that of the mason is the most abiding. The work of the artificer in wood and iron, the w'ork of the painter and the decorator, all this has disappeared under the ravages of decay and fire and flood and the destroying hand of man. But the work of the mason, wrought in solid stone, has survived where that of all other craftsmen has vanished. It is the most fundamental, the most stable and enduring of the works of man. Our craft of speculative masonry has, therefore, as t!ie l)asis of its precepts and researches, a very ancient, strong and abiding foundation. " A peculiar system of morality, veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols," it takes the principles, appliances and traditions-of operative masonry—traditions which are traced back through ages of association to the earliest legends of the craft—and, taking these, applies them to that which is the noblest constructive work of man, the building of character—a work in which he may cooperate—nay, must, if he would hope for success, with the Great Arcliitect of the Universe Hiniself. Man is the architect of his own character and destiny. He builds his house of Ufe—the principles, the habits, which are the true home of the soul, the abode wherein it dwells and from which it comes forth to work for the good will of self and of mankind. Of that house, man is the architect. W e are pleased to n o t e t h a t P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r B r o t h e r E . T. D . • CHAIMBERS was able, to p r e p a r e t h e u s u a l R e p o r t on C o r r e s p o n d e n c e , being his t h i r t y - n i n t h effort. F r o m his i n t r o d u c t i o n we are pleased t o q u o t e t h e following: That Freemasonry remains true to her mission of the moral betterment, not only of her initiates, but also of the world at large, needs no further evidence than that supplied by the lives of her representative men and the teachings and conduct of her recognized leaders. No bodies or members of the Craft anywhere can drift away from its tenets without placing themselves completely without its pale. A striking illustration of tills fact is furnished by the Grand Orient of Belgium, wliich by abandoning the essential Masonic requirement of a belief in GOD, and by removing from its Altars the Volume of the Sacred Law, has completely cut itself off from any and all connection with the Craft and has Justly earned for itself the repudiation of all legitimate Freemasonry. .4nd thus must it ever be so long as Masonry remains true to itself and to the GOD-given principles upon which it is founded
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—RHODE
ISLAND.
477
The Proceedings of our own Grand Lodge for 1924 and 1925 are included in his report. WILLIAM J. EWING, M . \ W . - . Grand Master, Richmond. W. W. WILLIAMSON, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, Montreal. E. T. D. CHAMBERS, P..G.-. M . - . , Correspondent. Next Annual, Quebec, February 9, 1927.
RHODE ISLAND-1926. Lodges, 40; members, 18,059; net gain, 436. The Semi-Annual Communication was held in Providence, November 16, 1925. HOWARD KNIGHT, M.-.W.-. Grand Master. We take it the Grand Master is an up-to-date business man judging from the following words taken from the preface to his address: If it is the desire of this Body to act promptly upon the matters which will be brought before you today, then great progress can be made. If on the other hand there Is a tendency to delay or postpone the issue then the work that has been done the first six months will probably go for naught. I would remind you that a body of this size, handling matters of great importance such as Grand Lodge has to consider cannot practically discuss details before the Grand Body assembled. Matters of detail must be referred to committees in whom you have confidence and the favorable recommendations of these committees should in most instances be acceptable to Grand Lodge. To the Masters, Wardens of the Subordinate Lodges who are assembled In Grand Lodge .by virtue of their office, to all Past Masters, regular members of Grand Lodge as well, I want to particularly remind that there is no member or group of members that has any more rights in Grand Lodge than any other member or group. In other words we are meeting in this assembly upon the level and every man is entitled to his opinion. There may be some matters brought before this Grand Body today that will not meet with the approval of the entire membership. There will be matters which will not meet with my entire approval, but before we start I want to remind you that this .Grand Body is supreme and whatever this Grand Body decides is our Masonic law and that law or mil or pleasure will be enforced. So let us show in our Body that we abide by the will of the majority no matter what our personal feeUngs may be and adhere to that standard of justice and right which as a Masonic Institution we profess to uphold. While such remarks would not be appropriate in our own Grand Lodge, yet we think they would be extremely valuable in some of our " s i s t e r " Grand Lodges judging from the amount of time required in transacting a very small amount of business. Among his recommendations we note one to the effect that dimits be issued to Entered Apprentices and Fellow Crafts. The Committee on Jurisprudence, however, disapproved of the plan.
478
COBBBSPONDENCB—RHODE
ISLAND.
February.
In an amendment to their Constitution we find one providing for]a card form of receipt, the description of which corresponds exactlyito our own. We here caution our Rhode Island brethren that in order^to avoid humiliation, their members be advised that this form of receipt will not be accepted in the Grand Jurisdiction of New Hampshire, as Kansas has learned from their own experience. If the brethren of Rhode Island desire to visit in New Hampshire they must first secure the blank form required in that jurisdiction; then request their Grand Lodge to approve this particular form and when a brother from a Rhode Island lodge desires to visit in New Hampshire he will make formal application to the Grand Secretary for one of the New Hampshire certificates or diplomas. This probably will raise the question as t o conditions existing between the Grand Lodge of Kansas and New Hampshire and in order to set at rest any question we will say that we are not in fraternal relations with that jurisdiction, all on account of their disregard for the comity which should exist and has always existed between Grand Lodges. We notice that our Rhode Island brethren have been more charitable than New Hampshire as in this same article of their Constitution they have made the following provision: Every visitor who is a member of a Lodge in a foreign Jurisdiction not requiring a similar identification card as a prerequisite to admission sliall present to the Tyler a receipt showing that Us dues have been paid to wltlila one year from date of presentation, or, if liis IjOdge does not require tlie payment of dues, a certiflcate or diploma showing him to be in good standing in his Lodge, before being admitted to the 'Lodge.
" The writer feels. However, that in justice to the good brethren of New Hampshire it should be understood that the unfortunate conditions existing between the Grand Lodge of Kansas and that of New Hampshire must be laid upon the shoulders of Past Grand Master AFRICA as he alone is responsible for this unfortunate affair. The facts are that this brother later on realized his mistake but lacked that true Masonic spirit which prompts one Mason, when a mistake is made, to rectify it as far as possible. The One Hundred Thirty-sixth Annual Communication was held in Providence, May 17, 1926.
HOWARD KNIGHT, M.'.W.-.Grand Master.
We note the absence of our Grand Representative at this Annual Communication. At this Communication the Grand Master submitted a lengthy report, giving in detail all important matters which came to his attention and upon which he deemed it proper to make a report. He was called upon to render a decision concerning their card form of receipt in which he ruled that the presentation of this card was sufficient proof to examine the brother. Under the head of "Procedure for Examination and Introduction of Visitors" we feel that the formula submitted by the Grand Master will be of interest to our readers, although in most respects and in the wording it corresponds very largely to that of our own jurisdiction:
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—RHODE
ISLAND.
479
The keynote of the procedure of examination is that it is a conference of brethren, in which two groups, one, of one member and one, of two, each satisfy each otlier of their mutual brotherhood. The instant the examining committee is satisfied that the visitor is a regular mason, in good standing, courtesy, brotherly regard, and good manners require that they should say so, and introduce him to the Master? Charity of thought, toleration, kindness and courtesy, are all Masonic virtues, and there is no better place where they can be practised, than a t the door of your Masonic home, for the benefit of the stranger who would refresh himself a t y o u r Altar. The visitor having applied for examination, the .Tunior Warden will appoint a committee of not less than two brethren, who will provide themselves with the Holy Bible, Square, Compasses, and Apron and proceed to the examining room with the visitor. Tliey will request him to sign his name, together with the name of his Lodge on a card provided for that purpose, and then ask for his credentials for comparison, first satisfying themselves that such credentials as he may present are from a Lodge within a Grand Jurisdiction that is recognized by this Grand Jurisdiction. The committee, together with the visitor, shall then place their right hand on the open Bible and repeat together the Tyler's Oath as follows: I do hereby and hereon, solemnly and sincerely swear, that I have been duly initiated, passed and raised, to the subUme degree of Master Mason, in a just and lawfully constituted Lodge of such; that 1 do not now stand sust)ended or expelled, and know of no reason why I should not hold Masonic communication with my brethren. So help me GOD. After this the committee shall ask the visitor such questions as they may deem necessary to thoroughly satisfy themselves, by customary examination,that the visitor is a Master Mason and when so satisfied, will conduct the visitor to the door and give an alarm. When the alarm is answered, the committee will announce a visitor in waiting, whereupon, the Master will order that he be admitted. The chairman of the committee will conduct the visitor to the Altar and salute the Master and will introduce him as follows: Worshipful Master, I have the pleasure of introducing to you and to the members of Lodge No Brother a member of Lodge of The Master will reply as follows: Brother it gives me great pleasure to welcome you to Lodge, and I trust that you will visit with us as often as you find opportunity. I will ask Brother to conduct you to a seat and charge him to see that you are made comfortable during your visit with us this evening.
We note from the report of the Finance Committee that the Grand Secretary's salary for the incoming year is to be $2,500.00, and that of the Grand Treasurer $300.00. They also recommended an appropriation of $2,000.00 for use of their Grand Master. I t is proposed to retire their Grand Treasurer and Grand Secretary, which action, however, we take it will not occur until the next Communication. There is no Report on Correspondence. WILLIAM L . SWEET, M . ' . W.-. Grand Master, Providence. S. PENROSE WILLIAMS, R . \ W.-. Grand Secretary, Providence.
480
CORRESPONDENCE—SASKATCHEWAN.
February,
SASKATCHEWAN —1926. Lodges, 180; members, 13,091; net gain, 122. Regina, June 16, 1926. GILBERT SWAIN, M.-. W.-. Grand Master. R.-. W.'. Brother W. M. MARTIN, responded as the Grand Repre-
sentative of our jurisdiction. The Grand Lodge extended the usual Honors and words of welcome to M.'. W.-. Brother C. ENSOR SHARP, Past Grand Master of the
Grand Lodge of British Columbia, and we are pleased to quote the following words from Brother SHARP'S remarks: As we know Masonry expects great things of the brotherhood and these things the Mason Is anxious, nearly always, to fulfill, but he sometimes fails. The cause of failure is chiefly lack of knowledge and understanding of the inner teaching of the Craft, and how it should apply to the life of the Freemason. Few Lodges have time to take up the study of Freemasonry, and very few Masons find time or inclination to study it by themselves and for themselves. Yet we should do so as a duty, and If we do it, we are surprised to And how much there Is in Masonry that we never suspected, and how wonderfully Its teachings can help our daily lifei No one can be a true Mason who has not got the spirit of vision, that Is of seeing beyond the merely material things of life, and finding everywhere something that will uplift the visionary and make him helpful to the Great Architect of the Universe and his fellowmen. Masonry begins to teach this vision by making use of the beauty, the drama, and the philosophy of Greece which are still the standard in this present eentiu-y of beauty, drama and philosophy. Here the Mason learns that nothing beautiful is helpful unless seen with pure eyes—that is the first great step In the spirit of Masonic vision. Then she goes ori to point out that vision is a spiritual thing, that it is a thing that can'hold and bind a man. be his reUgion, for "religion" simply means "binding" or "holding". To teach this great truth she takes the religious action of the Hebrew race, which for 4000 years has given witness to a life penetrated through and through with an Intensity of religious feeling. All Hebrew poetry, history, education, and home and public life alike is inspired with religious feeling and that feeling is a passion for worship of the Great Architect of the Universe and a life of brotherhood and helpfulness. That then is our greatest help to being true Masons. In proportion as a Mason lives by it so he shows the glory of Masonry. His attitude towards the Great Architect of the Universe gives him a value in social life that is always uplifting, for It silently points out that man at his best is a friend of God. His attitude towards ills fellowman leads others to see that we are not here for ourselves but for others, that happiness lies in forgetfulness of self and that life Is only really productive when our personal joy is to help others.
We quote the following from the Grand Master's remarks in presenting his annual address: I t is appropriate that we should meet in the Capital City of Regina on this anniversary. Inasmuch as this City is the permanent headQuarters of our Grand Lodge. The progress made by this Grand Lodge during the past year, has been a source of great satisfaction to myself, and I am sure to all of you. This progress is more or less due t o general conditions that prevail throughout this province. Last year we were blessed with a bountiful harvest, ' which re-acted in such a manner, that a remarkable Improvement In almost every phase of life and activity was shown; and it would appear that oiu- fair province of which we are also justly proud, is about to enter upon a period of
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—SASKATCHEWAN.
481
renewed prosperity and development. With the betterment of general conditions, is shown a remarkable growth In Masonic interest throughout our Grand Jurisdiction, and the seekers after Masonic Light are very much on the Increase. To those deemed worthy it is our duty and our privilege to accord a kindly welcome. We have many blessings and benefits to be thanliful for during the past year, and our expressions of thanks to the Most High, should be profoundly sincere and reverent, remembering always that He alone is the source of all wisdom, as well as the fountain of every blessing.
His address consists wholly of references to local matters and we therefore resort to quoting the following from his conclusion:. In conclusion brethren, let me exhort you to carry on the good work of Freemasonry in the future, with even greater zeal than you have done in the past. Let us carry the principles and teachings of our beloved Graft down through the years to come. We as Masons have a great mission to perform; we can do much to restore the equilibrium of the universe. It Is our duty to do this, and further it is our individual duty to find for ourselves how best we can severally accomplish this end. Since the end of the great war, the civilized world has been more or less in a turmoil. Various schemes have been advanced by recognized authorities to ameliorate all dlfflciUties and differences that have arisen, but in some respects we do not appear to be getting much closer to real solid, permanent peace. It is my opinion that we as Masons in the practice of our ideals throughout our dally life, and by the religious performance of our teachings and lessons can do much to solve the problems which have been so much before the public during the past years, and which problems are before us today. It is our duty as Masons to recognize the principal lesson of Freemasonry, The Fatherhood of GOD and the Brotherhood'of Man; it Is our Duty to do unto others as we would have thorn do unto us. That duty will cause the employee to render to the employer "the very best service for the expected reward." It will also make the employer consider the employee on the same basis as himself, and bind these two dominant factors of the world more closely together. Thus employer and employee will more nearly reaUze that peace and happiness in this 'ife are far more valuable than riches. If this could be accomplished in the true sense of the word, most of the difficulties that beset our present age would vanish and the Influence that Freemasonry can give to this universe, would be what we all anticipate it eventually will be, the responsible means of finding "Peace, Perfect Peace" for each and every one cf us. We as Masons have a' great trust to fulfill; we are not confined to any one race, creed, or religion, we are universal. Because of this we can and must take our place in the world and carry forth our ideals and precepts always, and become a leavening influence for good-whenever and wherever the opportunity presents Itself, and, brethren, that opportunity is before us always. Let us be Masons in every sense of the word. M.-.W.-. Brother W. B . T A T E , their G r a n d Secretary, presents his usual complete' and interesting report, including a s t a n d a r d form of s u m m a r y of membership. T h e Proceedings contain a likeness of their P a s t Grand Secret a r y , B r o t h e r J. M.. SHAW, who was called upon to lay down t h e working tools of life on March 25, 1926. TTndei- t h e head of " E x p e n d i t u r e s " in t h e report of t h e Finance C o m m i t t e e we are pleased t o note t h a t their G r a n d Secretary is paid $3,000.00 per year and an allowance of $1,800.00 is made for his assistant. This is as it should be with a membership of more t h a n
482
CORRESPONDENCE—SCOTLAND.
February.
13,000. Compared with our own jurisdiction, with a membership of over 80,000, the Grand Secretary is paid $1,800.00 as a salary. The Review of Proceedings w:as prepared by Brother W. M. THOMSON, and we are grateful for a review of our 1925 Proceedings. W. J. SMITH, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, Shaunavon. W. B. TATE, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, Regina. Next Annual, Moose Jaw, June 15, 1927.
SCOTLAND —1926. Lodges, 8 7 5 ; m e m b e r s , 260,000; n e t gain, . A Q u a r t e r l y C o m m u n i c a t i o n was held on August 6, 1925. T h e r e seemed t o b e a m i s u n d e r s t a n d i n g concerning t h e action of their M o t h e r Kilwinning L o d g e N o . 0, in a d m i t t i n g candidates, judging from t h e following:
X,
There was submitted a letter, dated 1st August 1925, from the Provincial Grand Secretary of Ayrshire, stating that at Quarterly Communication of that Provincial Grand Lodge held on 31st July last, it was resolved "that, according to the Interpretation by the Provincial Grand Lodge of Grand Lodge Law No. 174, Lodge Mother Kilwinning, No. 0, had not committed a breach of that Law in connection with the admission of a candidate, and regret was expressed that the interpretation by Provincial Grand Lodge should be a t variance with the Interpretation by Grand Lodge. Having in view that, a t Quarterly Communication of Grand Lodge held on 7th May last. Grand Lodge confirmed the resolution of Grand Committee of 19th March 1925 under which the Provincial Grand Lodge of Ayrshire was Instructed to deal with Lodge Mother Kilwinning, No. 0, for not complying with the terms of Grand Lodge Law No. 174, in connection with the admission of a candidate. Grand Committee is of opinion that the Provincial Grand Lodge of Ayrshire are guilty of disrespect to Grand Lodge in not complying with the terms of that resolution, and that it was ultra vires of Lodge Mother Kilwinning, No. 0, and the Provincial Grand Lodge of Ayrshire to arrogate to themselves the right of placing another construction on Grand Lodge Law No. 174. I t w.as accordingly resolved that the Provincial Grand Lodge of Ayrshire be instructed to deal forthmth with Lodge Mother Kilwinning, No. 0, for not compljing with theterms of Grand Lodge Law No. 174, and to report to the next meeting of Grand Committee on 22nd October 1925. At this Communication it was unanimously resolved to recommend to Grand Lodge the election of Brother The Rt. Hon. T H E EARL OF STAIR, for Grand Master. • The next Quarterly Communication was held November 5, 1925. Referring to the death of QUEEN ALEXANDRA we quote the following: The brethren being upstanding, the Grand Master Mason said—" Brethren, since our last meeting of Grand Lodge a very serious loss has been sustained by the whole country and everybody in it. I move that a vote of condolence be sent from Grand Lodge to His Majesty The King on the great loss which he and
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—SCOTLAND.
483
the Boyal Family and the whole of the country have sustained In the death of Her Majesty QUEEN ALEXANDRA." The following telegram was sent to the Secretary of State for Scotland:—• T H E SECRETARY OF STATE FOR SCOTLAND, DOVER HOUSE, LONDON.
The Freemasons under the Scottish Constitution a t home and abroad assembled in Grand Lodge on Saint Andrew's Day humbly offer their deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolence to His Majesty on the death of the b o loved Queen Mother. DAVID REID, Grand Secretary. FREEMASONS' HALL, EDINBURGH.
A c o m m i t t e e was appointed t o t a k e into consideration t h e secretarial work of t h e G r a n d Lodge Office a n d t h e following is t a k e n from the r e p o r t of t h a t c o m m i t t e e : It was intimated to the Committee that owing t o the state of Grand Secretary's health he was willing to place his resignation in the hands of Grand Lodge. The intimation was received ^vith great regret, and the Committee desire to place on record their high appreciation of the valuable services rendered by Brother DAVID REID as Grand Treasurer for eleven years and as Grand Secretary for twenty-flve years, and that an expression of their regret at Ms being laid aside should be conveyed to him. After full consideration, and in view of the valuable services rendered by Brother DAVID REID to Freemasonry in general and the Grand Lodge of Scotland in particular. Brother W. STEVENSON COCHRAN moved that Grand Lodge be moved to accept his resignation, and to retain his services during his, lifetime in an advisory capacity, at full salary, payable half-yearly in advance. He further moved (1) that a Special Committee be appointed with instructions to advertise for applications for the appointment. I t is indeed gratifying t o t h e writer, a n d t h e Grand. Lodge of Scotland is t o be congratulated, in retaining t h e services of B r o t h e r D A V I D R E I D on full salary during t h e remainder of his life. H i s counsel a n d advice, if he is permitted t o remain with t h e b r e t h r e n , will be invaluable. L a t e r on in t h e Proceedings we n o t e t h e following concerning t h e selection of a successor t o B r o t h e r R E I D : He reported that, after careful consideration and discussion, the Special Committee had unanimously agreed to suggest that Grand Committee should recommend Grand Lodge to appoint Brother THOMAS GIRDWOOD WINNING, Solicitor, Hawick, Master of Lodge St. John. Hawick, No. I l l , as Grand Secretary, in terms of Minute of 30th November 1925. The report was approved. Brother THOMAS GIRDWOOD WINNING was introduced to the Committee,
and in answer to The Most Worshii>ful Grand Master Mason, indicated that If appointed by Grand Lodge on 4th February, he would be able to undertake duty on an early date thereafter.
484
CORRESPONDENCE—SCOTLAND.
February,
From t h e address of the Grand Master we are pleased to quote the following: Not gold, but only men, can make A people great and strong; Men who. for truth and honour's sake. Stand fast and suffer long. Brave men who work while others sleep. Who dare while others fly— They build a nation's pillars deep, And lift them to the sky. Brethren, we are proud of the growing Influence and growing strength of Scottish Masonry, and we are determined to carry on our labours in such a way that the growth of that influence and strength shall be continued in years to come. Brethren, I call upon you to be upstanding and to drink heartily to the toast of " T h e Grand Lodge of Scotland," coupled with the name of our Most Worshipful Grand Master, one of the biggest-hearted men who ever occupied the Masonic Throne of Scotland. A Communication was held on February 4, 1926, at which we note that our Grand Representative, Brother JAMES S. M . GRIEVE, was present. At this Communication the selection of Brother THOMAS GlRDWOOD WINNING as Grand Secretary, was confirmed. Edinburgh, May 6, 1926. The Rt. Hon. T H E EARL OF STAIR, M.'. W.'. Grand Master. At this Quarterly Communication the Proceedings start off with the following remarks by Brother The R t . Hon. T H E EARL OF ELGIN AND KINCARDINE, which are of a mirthful nature and no doubt will be appreciated by our readers: Brethren, I think that probably Grand Lodge has never met in conditions such as we are experiencing to-day. I t is not a time for making speeches, but I wish to say that I hope that we, as Freemasons, individually and collectively, will do everything we can to promote that spirit which we always look up to in our Craft as the spirit which influenced the Craftsmen in old days. I t influenced them to go without scruple and without diflidence to the Middle Chamber because of the confidence which was displayed between the different parties. I trust that that same spirit may be abroad in oiu' country to-day and may help the different parties, who do not see eye to eye at the present moment, to come to that Middle Chamber and to speak as man to man and settle their differences as the ancient Craftsmen did In the days gone by. (Applause.) We notice there is no reference in these remarks to an Eighteenth Amendment. The following, having reference to the Eastern Star, was submitted and adopted, and we herewith quote the report which includes an expression of the policy of not only Scotland, but England and Ireland: The General Grand Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star was organised a t a Convention of delegates in America on 15th and 16th November 1876. as stated in the Constitution of the Order.
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—SCOTLAND.
485
As amended In 1925, the following declarations appear;— On the fifteenth and sixteenth days of November A.D. 1876, the General Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star, was legitimately organised by a convention of delegates of Independent Grand Chapters, and after tlie manner analogous to the General Government of the United States of America. This proceeding had become essential to the future of a system which was already dear to thousands of Freemasons and their families, by means of degrees known as the "Eastern Star,"—sometimes called '*The Adoptive Rite of Freemasonry." With tlie origin of these degrees this declaration villi not deal; sufBce to place on record the fact that through various methods of propaganda an Order has arisen which promised beneficence to the near female relatives of the members of the Ancient and Honourable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons, as well as to itself. Wherever it is stated, whether in Constitution, Ritual, General Regular tlons or otherwise, that eligibility for membership in the Order of the Eastern Star, shall consist of "affiliated Master Masons in good standing in a Masonic Lodge; their wives, daughters, legally adopted daughters, mothers, widows. sisters, and half-sisters, who shall have attained to at least the age of eighteen (18) years," it is also provided as of perpetual obligation that the '-Masonic Lodge" referred to shall be a regular Lodge of regular Freemasonry, wheresoever dispersed. They also have, amongst others, the following Landmarks:— Its obligations are based upon the honor of those who obtain its secrets, and are framed upon the principle that whatever benefits are due by Masons to the wives, daughters, mothers, widows, and sisters of Masons, reciprocal duties are due to the Brotherhood. The degrees carmot be conferred unless a brother in good standing shall preside. He may call upon the Worthy Matron to assist in conferring the^ degrees. There was later established a Supreme Grand Chapter of the Order ir^ Scotland at a Convention of all the Chapters of the Order of the Eastern Star Im Scotland held at Glasgow on 20th August 1904, at which Sister LAURA B . HART,. M.W.G.M., of the General Grand Chapter, presided. All the Chapters of theOrder within the Biitlsh Dominions, etc., were formed into this .SupremeGrand Chapter, having exclusive jurisdiction within the British Empire and o r the Colonies and Dependencies thereof, excepting those upon the Continenti of North America. It was also enacted that thelandmarks. Constitution, andJ Laws of the Order shall be adopted as the landmarks of the Grand Chapter then formed, and the rituals to be used under the constitution were to be those used by the General Grand Chapter of America. Another Agreement was entered into as the result of resolutions passed at the Triennial Assembly in 1919, under which it was stated that the whole of Europe and Africa, except the British Dominions therein, shall be regarded as joint territory, and it further declared that the only ritual to be used either in a Grand or Subordinate Chapter was the ritiial in use by the General Grand Chapter: also that a corresponding member of the Ritual Committee be appointed from the Supreme Grand Chapter of Scotland, and that all matters in dispute between the Supreme Grand Chapter of Scotland and the General Grand Chapter should be adjudicated upon by a joint Committee of the Committee of foreign relations of General Grand Chapter and Grand Committee of the Supreme Grand Chapter of Scotland. It will thus be seen that the body operating in Scotland is doing so with the same ritual and under the same powers as the body in America. There is no doubt that the General Grand Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star in America still hold connection with Freemasonry essential. The following rule appears in their Proceedings for 1925:— Queflinn—Does the widow of a Mason lose her Masonic connection if she marries a man who is not a Mason?
486
COIiRESPONDENCE—SCOTLAND.
February,
Answer—'When a lady becomes the wife of a man not a Mason she gives up her right as the widow of the Mason, and is not eligible to become a member of the Eastern Star. and several Instances appear in previous Proceedings from which it is quite evident that enquiry was being made at Masonic Lodges regarding the standing of brethren. At the Annual Meeting of the Supreme Grand Chapter of Scotland held in Glasgow on 18th March 1922, it was unanimously passed that the words i'in good standing" be deleted from the Constitution and Initiation forms. The Initiation form states that the applicant is the wife, daughter, mother, sister, or widow of , a Master Mason of Lodge , No. , respectfully petitions to receive the degrees of the Order, etc. The matter was before the Grand Lodge of England.in 1921, when it •was decided that "no Freemason is entitled to attend any non-Masonic meetng at which Masonry by direct implication is introduced, or to participate in .any ceremony which is quasi-Masonic or is held under some pseudo-Masonic and unauthorized auspices. The Secretary, or any member of a Lodge, who . :gives to anyone outside, and particularly to a non-Mason, information on Masonic matters known to him because of his Masonic connection commits a breach of discipline which, when proved, will be severely dealt witli." The Grand Lodge of Iieland also at a meeting in 1022 passed the following resolution:— " No member of any Lodge under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Ireland shall be a member of or attend any meeting of any body or Society which requires Freemasonry as a basis of or qualiflcation for membership, except of such bodies as are included in the calendar published annually by the authority of Grand Lodge. If any Lodge or member of a Lodge shall give .any information as to the standing of a member in reply to an enquiry from any such non-recognised body, it shall be deemed to be immasonic conduct and •may be dealt with accordingly." In 1923 the Grand Lodge of Canada refused an offlcial application for recognition of the Order of the Eastern Star. At a meeting of the Supreme Grand Chapter of Scotland, held in Glasgow, on 21st October 1922, the following motion was unanimously passed:— " I n view of the action already taken by the United Grand Lodges of England and'Ireland against the brothers (under their jurisdiction) who are members of the Order of the Eastern Star, it is advisable that a Special Committee be appointed to go into the whole question of the relationsliip of members of the Order of the Eastern Star to the Masonic body, with powers to bring forward a motion to deal with the matter. The Committee to be formed as follows:—The M.W.G.P., Past Grand Patrons, District Grand Patrons, W.A. G.P., Grand Secretary, and eight brothers to be appointed by the Supreme Grand Chapter." And at a meeting of that Committee, held on 4th November 1922, the following motion was passed:— '' After considerable discussion as to the position of our Order in various parts of our jurisdiction the M.W.G.P. moved that tlie members of the SubCommittee appointed by the Grand Lodge of Scotland, who are not members of our Order, be invited to attend a Chapter Meeting to see for themselves the work of our Order. This was seconded by Brother "WILLIAM FALCONER, P.G.P., and unanimously agreed to." Nothing has been done by this Committee since they were appointed until recently. On 27th April 1926, the Committee were privileged to attend a meeting of the Order of the Victoria Chapter No. 1, when every facility was given the Committee to see the work of the Chapter. The Committee beg to report that there is nothing in the work of the Chapter as practised in Scotland associating it with the Masonic Order. At the same time the Committee consider that the Order of the Eastern Star by insisting on their members being
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—SOUTH
AUSTRALIA,
487
connected with the Masonic Order and claiming that they are "co-workers" with Freemasonry are putting forward a claim which has never been considered • or recognised. The whole community are co-worlcers in the interests of their fellowmen, but each does that work in the way he thinks best. "Co-workers" is applied to organisations that deliberately work together, and one organisation should not state that they are co-workers with another without the sanction and approval of that other organisation. There are about 250 Chapters under the jurisdiction of the Supreme • Grand Chapter of Scotland of the Order of the Eastern Star, and it Is claimed there are about 73,000 members. The Victoria Chapter was chartered In Glasgow in 1874, and the 100th Chapter was chartered in 1920. At the present time there are 270 Chapters under the jurisdiction of the Supreme Grand Chapter of Scotland of the Order of the Eastern Star. From these figures will be observed the rapid growth in the number of Chapters, and these have been started in various towns in Scotland, and Queensland, New /^ealand. South Africa, Victoria, and New South Wales. The Committee have given much consideration to the question of what action, if any, should be taken by Grand I^odge in connection with this matter. In view of the fact that for over fifty years they have permitted their members without question to join the Order of the Easterta Star It is not thought that it would be reasonable to-immediately debar them. In the opinion of the Committee the Order of the Eastern Star has been long enough in existence to stand on the foundation it has built without any suggested patrimonial support from other organisations with which they have no connection. In fact, they claim that they are an internal organisation, not connected with any other secret order. The Committee consider that a certain time might be given to the Order of the Eastern Star to alter their Constitution in such a way that no reference be made to their having any connection with Freemasonry, and that there be no necessity for the presence of a Master Mason a t their ceremonies, and failing their doing so within a reasonable time, then we could adopt other methods to prohibit Freemasons from using their connection with the Masonic Craft as an essential ground for their connection with the Order of the Eastern Star. The Rt. Hon. T H E EARL OF STAIR, M . - . W . ' . Grand Master. THOMAS G . WINNING, R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary, Edinburgh.
SOUTH AUSTRALIA —1926. Lodges, 112; members, 12,458; net gain, 731. In the report of the Australian Masonic Conference the question of uniformity of modes of recognition was taken up and among other things it was decided to obtain from the Grand Secretary of the United Grand Lodge of England the official modes of recognition which obtained in that Constitution and that the Grand Lodge of Australia be recommended to adopt the same. This question contemplates a uniformity of signs, tokens and words in the various degrees. Other questions came up in their Australian Masonic Conference, including the question of intervals between the degrees, qualification of candidates, lodge meeting places, minimum fees and dues; uniformity of ritual, limitation of membership, admission of visitors,
488
CORRESPONDENCE—SOUTH
AUSTRALIA.
February,
reciprocity in Grand Ranli a n d visiting b y u n a t t a c h e d or unfinancial brethren. I t looks t o the writer as if t h e t i m e is n o t far a w a y when our A u s t r a l i a n b r e t h r e n will i n d e e d h a v e a S u p r e m e G r a n d Lodge, as t h e propositions t o which reference is m a d e a b o v e , when considered by a n y self-constituted organization, t a k e s a w a y i n h e r e n t rights of a G r a n d L o d g e a n d our b r e t h r e n i n t e r e s t e d a r e " w a n d e r i n g from t h e fold." A t t h e Half-Yearly C o m m u n i c a t i o n of October 2 1 , 1925, t h e G r a n d M a s t e r , among other t h i n g s , h a d t h e following t o s a y : I have found also tiiat some brethren thinli that the son of a Freemason may, notwithstanding that he has not reached the full age of 21 years, be admitted, and that Masters have the right to initiate them. Many of you. of course, know that this is not so, but lest some of you should have this wrong view, I think it well to say that no such right exists. What does exist is a discretion in the Grand Master to grant a Dispensation from the general rule and to permit the son of a Freemason to be admitted to the Order, though he may be still a minor. "Without that Dispensation it Is wrong to thus admit him. The discretion Is an unfettered discretion, but it is one that should be exercised by the Grand Master on principle and not merely as a matter of course nor from caprice, and if I am asked to grant any such Dispensation some sound reason must be given why it should bo done. T h e a r r a n g e m e n t of t h e Proceedings is o u t of t h e ordinary as m a n y t h i n g s t o which reference i s m a d e i n their B o a r d of General P u r p o s e s does n o t seem t o be disposed of l a t e r on in t h e transactions of t h e i r G r a n d Lodge. I t is therefore r a t h e r difficult for t h e busy writer of t h e Report on C o r r e s p o n d e n c e t o s u b m i t a very comprehensive s t a t e m e n t as t o t h e t r a n s a c t i o n s of t h i s G r a n d Lodge. W e n o t e o u r G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e w a s n o t present a t their A n n u a l C o m m u n i c a t i o n of April 2 1 , 1926. T h e R e p o r t on C o r r e s p o n d e n c e includes a review of our 1925 Proceedings, prepared b y our G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e , B r o t h e r W I L L I A M H . E S S E X . T h e report is t o o brief t o cover t h e transactions of our G r a n d L o d g e a n d to t h e notion of t h e writer is of little or n o conseq u e n c e so far as advising t h e Craft in t h e i r jurisdiction of w h a t is being d o n e in t h e G r a n d Jurisdiction of K a n s a s . Justice THOMAS SLANBY POOLE, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, Adelaide. CHARLES R . J. GLOVER, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Adelaide.
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—SOUTH
CAROLINA.
489
SOUTH CAROLINA-1926. Lodges, 290; members, 29,503; n e t gain, 63. Charleston, M a r c h 10, 1926. C. K. C H R E I T Z B E R G , M . - . W . - . Grand Master. We again repeat with considerable humiliation t h a t our G r a n d Representative was n o t present. T h e writer h a s been obliged to call a t t e n t i o n to this m a t t e r for a n u m b e r of years, b u t for some reason there seems t o be no disposition on t h e p a r t of our good brethren of South Carolina t o recommend some other b r o t h e r for this office and one who will a t t e n d t h e Communications. If no recommendations are received we give t h e assurance t h a t no further reference will be m a d e t o t h e absence of our G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e in any future reviews. After t h e reception of their distinguished visitor, M.'. W.'. Brother H E R B E R T C . RORICK, P a s t Grand M a s t e r of N e w Jersey, a telegram was read announcing t h a t t h e G r a n d M a s t e r h a d been g r a n t e d life membership in his home lodge. W e t a k e pleasure in quoting t h e following from t h e preface to t h e G r a n d Master's address: The past year has been one of responsibility, but at the same time a year of unalloyed pleasure and satisfaction to me. At one time the thought came to me to presume upon the generosity of the brethren by asking them not to reelect me, but to give the customary second year to one of our most worthy brethren, who, having reached the chair of Deputy Grand Master, was forced by financial readjustments to leave our Grand Jurisdiction, but later returned and tooli his place as one of the humblest of the brethren. You forestalled me by electing him .lunior Grand Warden, and in due time, Deo volente, will have the honor and iileasure of jiresiding over the Craft. For all of which. I am truly thankful. I would have gladly served a friend, but at the sacrifice of what I have found to be one of the happiest years of my Ufe. T h e G r a n d Master, under t h e head of " E d u c a t i o n a l p r o g r a m " informed t h e Grand Lodge t h a t he h a d invited an eminent minister t o address t h e m a t this Communication. L a t e r on we note t h a t this portion of t h e program was carried out. W e quote t h e following from t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s address under t h e head of " G e n e r a l Grand Lodge," and likewise a copy'of the original notice and resolution t o which reference is m a d e in t h e above. We have no d o u b t this will be of great interest t o our readers: We are indebted to our friend, J. CLAUDE KEIPEE, Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, for the original notice and resolution, copies of whicli are shown on the inserts. These documents are more than a hundred years eld and prove that the idea of a General Grand Lodge is not a new one. Experience has proven that our brethren legislated wisely at that time. I agree with the opinion then expressed that there is no necessity for a General Grand Lodge, although I am heartily in favor of a common meeting place for the interchange of views as afforded the Grand Lodges through the Masonic Service Association. I am fully satisfied that our brethren may rest content that a General Grand Lodge will not be established.
490
COIiBBSPONDENCE—SOUTH
CAROLINA.
February
To the M :. W:. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free-Masons of South-Carolina. The Committee, to whom was referred the Communication of the proceedings of "a number of members of the Society of Free-Masons, from various parts of the United States, composed of Members of Congress and strangers assembled at the Capitol In the city of Washington. 9th of March, 1822, recommending the establishment of a General Grand Lodge of the United States." REPORT: That they have seriously reflected on the important subject committed to their investigation; that they have also derived much satisfactory information from the luminous and minute details of the various arguments which naturally suggests themselves from a careful examination of the proposed establishment, contained in the reports of many of the Committees of the Grand Lodges of other States: That your .Committee are sensibly impressed with the conviction that the establishment of a Grand Lodge in each State, under whose jurisdiction, superintending care, and vigilance, the several subordinate Lodges are placed and fostered, is amply sufficient for all the valuable and interesting purposes of the Masonic Order: That as it does not appear to your Committee any necessity exists for the establishment proposed, in order to promote or advance the interests of the Craft: so, also, would they deprecate.even the possibility, if not the probability, of its producing in any degree, however remote, the least injury to Masonry generally, by its diversion of the parental vigilance of the State Grand Lodges, towards the focus of the General Grand Lodge; by the impeding multiplication of its duties and concerns; by its alienation by distance, from the local concerns and character of the several subordinate Lodges, as well as the Grand Lodges themselves of the respective States; by its breaking in upon the funds of the several State Grand Lodges, which could be applied so much more cheerfully to the endearing claims of charity; or in any other view, creating difQculty or disadvantage, to the present felicitous situation of the Masonic Order. Your Committee, therefore, beg leave to recommend the following resolutions: Resolved, That the establishment of a General Grand Lodge of the United States, and t h e calling a Masonic Convention for the purpose of instituting and organizing the same, as proposed, is, in the opinion of this Grand Lodge, unnecessary and unadvisable. Resolved, That the Corresponding Grand Secretary be requested to transmit copies of the foregoing Report and Resolution, to the respective Grand Lodges throughout the United States, and a copy of the same to WILLIAM W . SEATON, Esq. at the City of Washington, agreeably to the request contained in the communication referred to your Committee. Respectfully submitted by HENRY H. BACOT. S. G.W. WILLIAM WALLER, J. G. W. R I C H A R D W. COGDELL, C. G. S. Committee. Charleston, So. Ca. 23d December, 5822. CHARLESTON, May l, A. D. 1823, A. L. 5823. DEAR SIR:
Agreeably to a resolution of the M.W. Grand Lodge of Ancient Free-Masons of South-Carolina, passed at an adjourned communication, held on the 23d December, 5822, I have the honour herewith to transmit a copy of a report made by the Committee to whom was referred the Communication of the proceedings of " A number of memibers of the Society of Free-Masons from various parts of the United States," &c. recommending the establishment of a General Grand Lodge of the United States. . With sentiments of respect, I remain, Yours, J. A. JOHNSON, M. D., Corresponding Grand Secretary.
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—SOUTH
CAROLINA.
491
We note from t h e G r a n d Secretary's r e p o r t which consumes b u t one page of t h e Proceedings, t h a t their lodges a r e being supplied w i t h copies of t h e Master Mason Magazine which is published b y t h e Masonic Service Association. B r o t h e r J. L. MiCHiE, C h a i r m a n of t h e C o m m i t t e e on Correspondence, s u b m i t t e d t h e following special r e p o r t which was a d o p t e d : Various communications were received from Foreign Grand Lodges in Foreign Languages, wliich, one being translated, proved to contain nothing that would interest us. As to -the communication from the Grand Lodge of New York re severing Fraternal Relations with the Grand Orient of Belgium, we are glad to say that our Grand Lodge never did extend Fraternal Recognition to the Grand Orient of Belgium, so there is nothing for us to do. As to the resolutions passed by the Conference of Grand Masters held in Chicago on 17th November, 1925, re the action of the Grand Orient of France in taking "under its wings" the Regional Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, otherwise known as "The Ancient Accepted Rite Universal Freemasonry," authorizing it to establish Lodges of Free Masons in all the States that do not Fraternally Recognize the Grand Orient of France, we beg to state that our Grand Lodge does not Fraternally Recognize the Grand Orient of France, so here again there is notliing for us to do. I t gives t h e writer considerable pleasure t o revert t o t h e P r o ceedings of t h e G r a n d Lodge of K a n s a s for t h e year 1919 in which we find a special report concerning F r e n c h M a s o n r y prepared b y t h e writer of this report. We therefore cannot help b u t exclaim: " W e told you s o ! " • F r o m t h e address delivered b y . t h e one specially invited b y t h e G r a n d Master, we quote t h e following: I said Masons want to know more about Masonry. If Masonry has ever diverted or perverted,—if our Craft should ever be turned aside to the right or the left from its cotirse of wise, constructive service to mankind, it will be brothers who do not know the purpose of Masonry. They do not know what Masonry has been, and they may learn something different from what it has been. There are many conditions of our National Ufe that try us sorely. In diflferent parts of the country good and true Masons have been attempting to use Masonry for ends, which, if it becomes the common habit of the Craft, will destroy it. I t will never do to use Masonry as a weapon to fight anything. Masonry is not to divide men, but to help them to discover one another. There are tliree needs in America, as I see it, and Masonry can do something no other organization can do to serve America,—and after living abroad for nearly five years I came back with a belief in my country as I believe in GOD. If Masonry goes wrong everything is lost. If America loses the right way there will be no civilization worth talking about, and my opinion is that where anything needs to be done for America it is the job of Freemasons to do it. We want to heal ourselves of the intolerance and lawlessness that is among us. There is not a man among you who has children in the teens tliat is not puzzled each day over what they will do next. They fill us with terror as to what they do, and we see how they throw aside all standards that we know are true and trustworthy.
While the writer agrees in a ineasure with this distinguished brother yet we are inclined to believe that he stresses too strongly
492
CORRESPONDENCE—SOUTH
DAKOTA.
February.
certain m a t t e r s which really d o n o t come u n d e r t h e original purposes of Ancient Craft M a s o n r y . T h e Review of Proceedings of Sister Jurisdictions w a s again prepared b y M . . W . - . B r o t h e r J A M B S L . M I C H I E a n d is certainly u p t o t h e s t a n d a r d . H e g r a n t s liberal space t o all jurisdictions, playing favorite t o none and we are u n d e r obligations, so far as our jurisdiction is concerned, for a v e r y interesting review of our 1925 journal. C H A R L T O N D U R A N T , M . - . W . - . G r a n d Master, M a n n i n g . O. F R A N K H A R T , R . - . W . - . G r a n d S e c r e t a r y ,
Columbia.
J A M E S L . M I C H I E , P . - . G . - . M . - . , Correspondent,
Darlington.
N e x t A n n u a l , Charleston, M a r c h 9, 1927.
SOUTH DAKOTA —1926. Lodges, 174; members, 19,632; n e t gain, 336. Y a n k t o n , J u n e 8, 1926. J O H N K . K U T N E W S K Y , M . . W . - .
Grand
Master. Our G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e , B r o t h e r J A M E S B . V A U G H N , was present. F r o m t h e address of welcome dehvered b y Brother W I L L I A M F . SARGENT on behalf of S t . J o h n ' s Lodge N o . 1, we are pleased t o q u o t e t h e following: Many ATasonic writers inform us that jMasons and Masonry were very prominent in the early, formulative period of our nation. In fact Masons have always been prominent in the affairs of this country. Fifty-two of the flfty-flve immortals who signed the Declaration of Independence had worn the lambskin apron and felt the points of the compasses upon' their breasts. Our first president—as have been many presidents since—was a faithful and active Mason. Every commanding general from Lexington to Yorktown had sought the lost word in the lodge of the widow's son. It is, therefore, but natural that the world a t large should be interested in the proceedings of our different Grand Bodies. How can it be otherwise? for as the Israelite was commanded to wear upon his outer garment a ribbon of blue to remind him of the first great commandment, "Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself," so by the presence of this color in all the Degrees, every brother is constantly reminded that in his breast the virtues of Truth and Love should be as extensive as the blue vault of Heaven. His very name reminds him that he is a builder, whose primary duty is to enlarge his mind and soul by the acquisition of new Ideas, and thus extend hif usefulness to his fellowmen. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r in presenting his address makes proper reference t o t h e d e a t h of their P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r s during t h e year—M . - . W . ' . Brother G E O R G E A. JOHNSTON, CHARLES L . BROCKWAY and JOHN L . TURNER.
T h e following m a y b e of i n t e r e s t t o o u r readers a n d we therefore q u o t e i t : On June 22, 1925, I received through our Grand Secretary a complaint from a Deputy State Sheriff saying that liquor had been carried into the lodge room at Miller during a firemen'.' convention there. I took the matter up with
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—SOUTH
DAKOTA.
493
St. Lawrence Lodge and found that they had given permission to the rooming committee to use their lodge room as sleeping quarters for members of the firemen's tournament, and in order to give the matter due consideration, I visited St. Lawrence Lodge on August 7th and learned that one of the firemen had carried booze into the lodge room,—in fact, was a bootlegger while he was there. I understand this man "has since been sentenced to the penitentiary for attempted bank robbery. The members of the lodge were in no way responsible for the conduct of the firemen. They did everything they could to prevent their lodge room from being used in any way or for any purpose except for sleeping the firemen. It was a plain case of guests taking advantage of the hospitaUty of the lodge. One of their lodges asked t h e G r a n d M a s t e r for a ruling as t o t h e right of t h e lodge to receive a petition for t h e Mysteries from a young m a n who, was born with a crippled right h a n d . T h e G r a n d M a s t e r s t a t e s t h a t t h e question p a r t i c i p a t e d some correspondence w i t h t h e secretary of t h e lodge, including an outline of t h e h a n d , which was given careful s t u d y . T h e result of this investigation w a r r a n t e d t h e G r a n d M a s t e r in deciding t h a t this p a r t y could n o t receive t h e degrees. We refer t o t h e above only as a comparison between conditions t o d a y a n d as t h e y existed thirty-five or forty y e a r s ago when m a t t e r s of t h i s k i n d n o t only did n o t reach t h e G r a n d M a s t e r , b u t likewise were never b r o u g h t before t h e lodge. I n those d a y s t h e b r e t h r e n knew full well t h a t under t h e L a n d m a r k s and Ancient Charges persons-so u n f o r t u n a t e as this were not material for t h e degrees of Symbolic M a s o n r y . B r o t h e r GEORGE A. P E T T I G R E W , their faithful G r a n d Secretary, presents a very complete report covering t h e more i m p o r t a n t m a t t e r s which came before him during t h e year a n d a m o n g t h e m we n o t e one u n d e r t h e head of " M e d a l s " and we q u o t e t h e following: When the matter of presenting medals to Brethren who had been members of the Fraternity for fifty years, was brought before this Grand Lodge two years ago, no one had a suspicion that in this young State of ours there would be more than fifteen or twenty who would be entitled to one. But since then, fifty-six have been issued which has exhausted the first Installment and I now have on hand applications for nine more. W e fear a similar action on t h e p a r t of our G r a n d Lodge would m a k e it necessary t o increase our per capita. A splendid oration was delivered b y B r o t h e r C H A R L E S S . H A L L a n d we t a k e pleasure in quoting t h e following: If we are going to be true leaders of light we must have in mind the enlargement of the human life, physical, social, moral and spiritual. We must be actuated by that Christian motive which says "serve." Anything which has a tendency to shackle the human body or bind the human spirit shoiild not find its place in the lives of those who would be leaders of light. Such problems as the slavery question, the open saloon, unrestricted child labor and many others have no place now in our national make-up. We must free ourselves from ignorance, prejudice, intolerance, fear, envy, hate and in fact all other passions of the mind which tend to destroy. Let us not look upon our fellow man as so many human beings, but rather as those who are striving for those excellencies which constitute the glory of
494
COBRESPONDENCE—TASMANIA.
February,
human existence. Give us more citizens who are morally courageous, honorable, fair-minded and public spirited. Sometimes the gravest danger is not from the criminal for each community is alive to that grave problem, but it may be from the easy-going contentment, the moral un-enlightoned and handto-mouth ideals of a vast number of respectable citizens.
*
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You should realize the opjjortunity which Is yours to mold the character of future citizens and show them the way towards the goal of a Justifiable and honorable ambition for higher and better things. These who finish high school and begin employment are at a very critical age where they may be diverted from the ways of right thinking and right doing and might adopt. If nothing worse, an indiflerence towards life and their work, They are at that plastic age where co-operation, sympathy, help and intelUgent direction will make t h e m ' most valuable assets and useful citizens. It Is only our simple duty to supplement the home with character training and character building. The shop and ofllce can and must take the place of the college for those who are unable to pursue any educational opportunities beyond the high school. Owing to the death of M.-.W.-. Brother CHARLES L . BROCKWAY the Report on Correspondence was prepared by Brother ARTHUR H . TUFTS, and we find in it a reference to our 1925 Proceedings. We are at a loss, however, to understand how Brother TUFTS became confused in the name of the writer with that of the WILLIAMS family. We are willing to forgive him this time but caution him not to repeat the offense. LEONARD M . SIMONS, M.-.W.'. Grand Master, Belle Fourche.. GEORGE A. PETTIGEEW, R . ' . W . ' . Grand Secretary, Sioux Palls. ARTHUR H . TUFTS, Correspondent, Sioux Falls. Next Annual, Aberdeen, June 14, 1927.
TASMANIA —1925. Lodges, 40; members, 3,434; net gain, 88. Two Special Communications were held, one for the purpose of dedicating a hall and the other for laying the corner-stone of a new Temple. The Half-Yearly Communication was held at Hobart, August 29, 1925, with M..W.-. Brother HENRY L , D'EMDEN, presiding. Referring to the death of their Grand Senior Warden, R.. W.'. Brother STEER, the following, among other sympathetic references, was adopted: That we, the Grand Master, Officers, and Members in Grand Lodge assembled, desire to place on record our high appreciation of the long and meritorious service given to the Craft by our esteemed Rt. Wor. Brother ARTHUR V. STEER, Senior Grand Warden, who was called to his rest on 10th July. 1925. And we extend to his widow and family our heartfelt sympathy in their hour of trial. Our long and close association with our dear Brother will always remain a pleasant memory, and we pray the Almighty Architect to comfort his dear ones In their sorrow.
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—TASMANIA.
495
The following is presented for the purpose of emphasizing the disadvantages arising from the practice of dual membership: A Lodge asked advice as to the position regarding a Brother excluded for non-payment of Dues in one Lodge, and at same time was in good financial standing in his Mother Lodge. The Board ruled that the Brother's standing in his Mother Lodge is not affected by his exclusion for non-payment of Dues in another Lodge. U n d e r t h e h e a d of "Admission of C a n d i d a t e s " we q u o t e t h e following which will no d o u b t be s o m e w h a t surprising to our own readers: No person shall be made a Freemason without having been proposed and seconded at one regular Lodge, and balloted for at a regular meeting to be held at a period of not less than three months after the meeting at which such person was proposed, which ballot shall not take place unless his name, age, jirofession or occupation, and place of abode, with the names of his proposer and seconder, have appeared on each summons sent to all members of the Lodge for each regular meeting held between the dates of the regular meeting at which he was proposed and the date on wliich he is balloted for, and no such person shall be balloted for and Initiated on same day except as provided for in Reg. 154. Except by dispensation from the Grand Master, no member of a Lodge shall be eligible to propose or second the nomination of a candidate for Initiation unless he has been a Master Mason for a period of not less than two years and has- personal knowledge of the candidate for a period of not less than one year and is prepared to vouch for his character and fitness to become a Freemason. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r had t h e following to s a y a t t h e close of t h i s Communication: At the close of the current half-year, you will be called upon to again elect a Grand Master, and as I then will have completed a fifth y-ear in that position, I desire the Members of Grand Lodge in the meantime to seriously consider the matter, with a view to the nomination of a Brother capable and willing to fill the exalted position to which I have been elected during the past five years. I would not for one moment have you think that I have ceased to appreciate the honour of being Grand Master, but I have no desire to outstay my welcome, and I am of opinion that In the best interests of the Craft an opportunity should be afforded some other Brother to occupy the highest honour within your power to bestow, and for this reason I trust the nomination will receive the consideration it deserves at your hands.
A Special Communication was held October 14, 1925, at which time several splendid orations were delivered and we take pleasure in quoting the following: This symbolic reference of the corner stone of a material edifice to a Freemason is well known to you, and when we look at the qualities that are required to constitute a well-tried, true, and trusty corner stone, it will show that the ceremony of the north-east corner of the Lodge was intended to convey, through the squareness of its surface and its cubical form, and the peculiar finish and fineness of the material, the necessity of Integrity and stability of conduct, of truthfulness and uprightness of character, and of purity and holiness of life. Corn, wine, and oil are the Masonic elements of consecration, and the adoption of these symbols is supported by the highest antiquity. Corn, wine, and oil were the most important productions of Eastern countries, they constituted the wealth of the people, and were esteemed as the supports of life.
496
CORRESPONDENCE—TASMANIA.
February,
and the means of refreshment. DAVID enumerates them as among the greatest blessings that we enjoy, and speaks of them as "wine that maketh glad the heart of man, and oil to make his face shine, and bread which strengtheneth man's heart." The Tabernacle in the Wilderness and all its holy vessels were, by Gon's express command, anointed with oil, AARON and his sons were set apart for the priesthood with the same ceremony, and the prophets and Kings of Israel were consecrated to their ofiBces by the same rite. Hence, Freemasons' Lodges, which are but Temples to the Mcst High, are consecrated to the sacred purposes for which they were built by strewing corn, wine, and oil, and thus does this mystic ceremony instruct us to bo nourished with the hidden manna of righteousness, to be refreshed with the Word of the l^ord, and to rejoice with Joy unspeakable in the riches of Divine grace, and Is also to remind us that In the pilgrimage of human life we are to impart a portion of our bread to feed the hungry, to send a cup of our wine to cheer the sorrowful, and to pour the healing oil of consolation into the wounds which sickness has made In the bodies or affliction has rent In the. hearts of our fellow travellers.
* * * * * * It Is a part of the eternal plan of the Great Creator that every human life should be a life of Industry, a life of good deeds, a life of usefulness to his fellow man, living not so much for himself as for others, a life dedicated and devoted to making others happy, a life from which selfishness has been eradicated, and In its stead glow love and compassion for those around him. And as year follows year with such unceasing rapidity let us take into account the passing hours as we should and £is taught by our Masonic obligations and duties. We know, both by experience and education, that as Time destroys the speculations of man it confirms the judgment of Nature and in the beautiful expressive language of our Ritual, "There will come a time, and the wisest knows not how soon, when this transitory scene shall be changed and Death, the great leveller, will end all."
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And lastly I see in this great Society of men, which to-day Is marking an Important step In its history here in this district, a "Force making for Intellectual Advancement." It expects of Its members abiUty to appreciate Its symbols, it urges a dally advancement in Masonic knowledge and as a moral science, receptivity to assimilate its great principles of human conduct. Can this be of little account? I think not, and this gathering this afternoon bears witness to the fact that we regard Masonic knowledge of such value that we seek to place above this stone a worthy building wherein the members of the Fraternity In this district shall find a proper atmosphere and have a Masonic home worthy of so great and honourable an Institution. It Is no idle boast that Masonry claims to be an intellectual as well as a moral force, and any member in its ranks who has made no attempt to study its history and lawfully penetrate its wonderful mysteries has missed much of the helpfulness that this great Fraternity confers upon its members. HENRY L . D ' E M D E N , M / . W . - . Grand Master. W. H. STRUTT, R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary, Hobart.
1920-27.
CoBBESPONDENCE—TENNESSEE.
497
TASMANIA —1926. Lodges, 4 1 ; m e m b e r s , 3,529; n e t gain, 95. H o b a r t , F e b r u a r y 27, 1926.
HBNEY L . D'EMDEN, M.-.W.-.
Grand
Master. I m m e d i a t e l y after t h e opening of t h e G r a n d Lodge t h e G r a n d M a s t e r referred t o t h e d e a t h of M.-.W.'. B r o t h e r L i e u t e n a n t - C o l o n e l J.^H. R O O M , after which t h e following was a d o p t e d : That this Grand Lodge, assembled in Annual Communication, desires to place on record its appreciation of the long and valued services given to the Craft by our esteemed Brother, J. H. ROOM, and we desire to extend our sympathy to the members of his family in the great loss they have sustained by^his death. His association with Freemasonry in Tasmania will always be a pleasing memory, and we pray that every possible comfort will be vouchsafed to his relatives in their sorrow. T h e following a m e n d m e n t t o t h e C o n s t i t u t i o n w a s u n a n i m o u s l y adopted: Unless a Dispensation be granted by the Grand Master on the recommendation of the Board of General Purposes, a Brother shall not be eligible for election to. the Office of Treasurer, Secretary, Deacon, Inner Guard, or Tyler of a Lodge until such Brother has been a Master Mason for a period of two years, nor to the OfBce of a "Warden of a Lodge until such Brother has been a Master Mason for a period of at least Ave years. C L A U D E E . W . J A M E S , M.-.W.'. G r a n d M a s t e r . W. H . S T R U T T , R . ' . W . ' . G r a n d Secretary, H o b a r t ,
TENNESSEE —1926. Lodges, 4 7 3 ; m e m b e r s , 49,264; n e t gain, 1,606. Nashville, J a n u a r y 27, 1926. C H A R L E S W . P O L K , M.-.W.-.Grand Master. B r o t h e r H A L L U M W . GOODLOE, our G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e , was present. T h e G r a n d Master, a d m i t t i n g of t h e responsibilities of his high office, h a d t h e following t o s a y in t h e preface t o his a d d r e s s : I have found that the ofBee of Grand Master is one of great responsibility and that it has demanded my very best effort. I have kept in mind throughout the year that I owed to the Brethren of the state a debt of gratitude for the high honor conferred upon me and I have executed the affairs of the Grand Lodge to the best of my ability without fear or favor. Referring t o t h e Masonic Service Association t h e G r a n d M a s t e r leaves t h e question of continuing membership i n this organization with B r o t h e r R A N D E L L , (who is a t t h e head of t h e Masonic Service Association) t h e W a y s a n d Means C o m m i t t e e a n d t h e b r e t h r e n of t h e G r a n d Lodge, m a k i n g no r e c o m m e n d a t i o n w h a t e v e r .
498
CORRESPONDENCE—TENNESSEE.
February,
Later on in the Proceedings we find that this subject was not even referred to a committee, but a motion was made that the Grand Lodge join the Masonic Service Association and pay its dues. While this proposition is a family affair with our good brethren of Tennessee, yet it seems rather inconsistent that they should assume further financial obligations, in view of the report made by their Grand Master in 1925 concerning their efforts to raise their promised amount for the Washington Memorial proposition. His report at that time showed that but eighteen per cent of the amount pledged had been raised and it took five years to raise this amount, leaving a balance of eighty-two per cent still due the Association. The method employed by the promoters of this Association receives attention at the hands of this committee in the preface to this report. Under the head of "Suspension" the Grand Master had the following to say and is worthy of careful reading on the part of our own lodges: After a long and tedious investigation of conditions existing at Perry Lodge No. 325. I found that Brother W. J. LOVELESS who was Master of that lodge and had been for many years and who had served the Grand Lodge in a splendid manner in years past had become so arbitrary as to refuse to let the business of the lodge be carried on in a manner harmonious to Masonic law. One W. J. BATES along with 29 others had been suspended for nonpayment of dues in an irregular manner and without due notice. Tlie other 29 had been restored t o membership without proper procedure. Brother BATES' petition for restoration was refused together with his money by Brother LOVELESS as Master on several occasions. I t developed that the trouble between Brother LOVELESS and BATES was of a political nature. 1 remonstrated with Brother LOVELESS but to no avail, after which I was advised by good and reliable disinterested Masons t h a t it would never be possible for Perry Lodge No. 325, to operate in a peaceful and harmonious way so long as Brother LOVELESS was in cliarge. I therefore suspended Brother LOVELESS from his office as Master and from the privileges of Masonry for one year. In my Investigations of this case I became more thoroughly convinced than ever that no man should be continued in office as Master for any great length of time, as it has a tendency to cause him to become autocratic and arbitrary to the detriment of the welfare of the lodge. I commissioned Brother C. B. JONES of Waverly, Tennessee, to attend this lodge regularly as my proxy and I am happy to state that he reports to me that peace and harmony again prevail and the lodge is on its feet and doing good work. Everything I desired has been accomplished and I am satisfied that his punishment has been stifflcient. I therefore recommend that Brother LOVELESS be restored.
The Grand Secretary presents a complete report, but in no place does he inilicate the number of lodges on their rolls. Of course one can count them from the list of lodges, but it is much more desirable to furnish t h a t information in connection with his recapitulation. The Report on Correspondence contains a review of our 1925 Proceedings and Brother CHAMBERS, who prepared this portion of the
report, refers at length to several important subjects presented to our
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—TEXAS.
499
Grand Lodge by M.-.W.'. Brother STRAIN, among them being tliat relating to Lodge Trials and Physical Qualifications. ANDREW E . MCCULLOCH, M.-.W.-. Grand Master, Maryville. STITH M . CAIN, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Nashville. C. H. SMART, Correspondent, Nashville.
Next Annual, Nashville, January 26, 1927.
TEXAS —1925. Lodges, 978; members, 132,774; net gain, 3,894. A Special Communication was held on May 20, 1925, for the purpose of conducting the funeral of their Past Grand Master WILLIAM H. NICHOLS.
The Grand Lodge convened at Waco, December 2, 1925, at 9:30, with GUINN WILLIAMS, Grand Master, after which a program, specially
prepared for this occasion, was presented. Several addresses of welcome were extended to the brethren. Our .Grand Representative was not present at this Communication. Immediately following the opening of the Grand Lodge, all Master Masons in good standing for more than forty years were formally received by the Grand Master. At the conclusion of this list we quote the following remarks, referring to two of their distinguished members: Brother J. C. KIDD, Past Grand Treasurer, Past Grand High Priest, etc., etc., etc., 80 years of age (jilus); has been a Mason 53 years; has attended this M.'.W.'. Grand Lodge 50 years, missing only one or two meetings; if he had served in all of the Masonic offices to which he has been elected consecutively, instead of concurrently, he would have served Masonry 221 years; he is a t present Treasurer of six Masonic Bodies in Houston. Brother D. ROBERTIJON, 87 years old: has been a Mason 66 years. I n . extending a welcome t o these distinguished Craftsmen G r a n d M a s t e r h a d t h e following t o s a y :
the
Brother Masons: I, as Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Texas, wish to say to you, GOD bless you. You are an inspiration to us younger boys; you have set a light for us to follow, and may these years of your coming to this Grand Lodge be many, that you may add to the great ser^nce that you have done in the past. We welcome you, brethren.
The Grand Master in presenting his address offered the following: which we are sure will be interesting to our own brethren: My travels over this Grand Jurisdiction have taken me from Red River to the Rio Grande; from Dalhart to Brownsville, and from El Paso to Texarkana. At many places visited. I have been confronted with the questioni from Brother Masons. " How can we stop the factional and unjust blackballingin our lodges?" or "How can we stop this or that trouble which has been i n jected into subordinate lodges?" The looseness with which the governmental
500
CORRESPONDENCE—TEXAS.
February,
affairs of some of our lodges are being handled is appalling and the consideration given to the enforcement of Masonic law is even worse, in that, in a number of. places where the local lodge has attempted to discipline a member the same has resulted in factional strife and total disregard of the spirit of brotherhood and t h e obligation to the Craft. I have, in all things, endeavored to be tolerant and just during my ad•ministration as Grand Master. I have preached toleration and the virtues of Freemasonry before more than 30,000 members of our Order this year, and in all fraternal love. I have declared that, in my opinion, if a Mason does not love and regard the Masonic Fraternity with more reverence than he does any other organization or fraternity in existence, except the Church of the Living •GOD, then he should disassociate himself from his Masonic brethren and continue his activities in the organization of his choice, let that be what it may. I t has been embarrassing and humiliating to your Grand Master on several occasions to be confronted with the statement that local lodges have become dormant, and a reflection, as well as a burden, upon the communities in which they ar.e located by reason of the members choosing other institutions in which to spend their time, money and activities. On such occasions I have c9nsistently labored to the best of my ability with our Masonic brethren, calling their attention to the purposes of Masonry, its usefulness to the community, State a n d Nation and reminding them of their obligations and duty to the Craft and especially emphasizing the Masonic teachings with reference to brotherhood and tlie call for harmony and united service to humanity: I have also urged upon them the great lessons and teachings of our Ancient and Honorable Order. My conception of Freemasonry is expressed very forcibly on page 20 of the Grand Lodge Laws of 1921, from wliich I quote the following: " T h e purposes of this Grand Lodge are to advance the moral and social interests of its membership: to foster good citizenship, honest industry and upright living; to cultivate the exercise of charity in its best and broadest sense: to assist the widows and orphans of its deceased members; to stimulate friendship, harmony and brotherly love; and generally to promote in its own way the happiness of mankind—it is a Fraternity of good men linked together by indissoluble bonds, to accomplish these noble purposes, eschewing all interest in factional politics and sectarian religion and free from the dictation of both." After having visited about one-third of the local bodies of this Grand Jurisdiction and coming in personal contact with a large part of the membership, I am convinced that there are tliousands of members of Masonic lodges who have a wrong conception of Freemasonry and little knowledge of its objects and purposes. I have been forced to defend the purposes of ttiis Grand Lodge on many occasions when I would be confronted with the question, " D o you not believe that it is time for the Masonic Fraternity to actively engage in politics?" I regret to say that, in my opinion, there is a growing tendency on t h e part of some members of our Fraternity to have Masonic Lodges-participate actively in politics and unless this tendency is checked. Masonry will pay a greater price for such activity than it has, and is paying, for permitting outside matters to become injected into its internal affairs contrary to the declared purposes of this Grand Lodge. The brotlu'eu who have talked to me -appear to be honest in their views but. in my judgment, are misled as to Masonic ideals and teachings. Masonry is no longer a serious matter with many members of the Order. I t has been, and is being, exploited by such members in business of different Tiatures and kinds and many of the brethren have by promoters of business and •organizations been led to believe that it was their duty as Masons to take an Interest in .such business institutions or join such organizations: and many brethren have been thus deprived of their money only to find themselves a member of an organization which has no relatlonsMp or connection with Masonry, or to become interested in a business of questionable character. On all
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—TEXAS.
501
such occasions I have earnestly admonished the brethren that, under no circumstances, should Masonry be exploited for personal gain in either a business or an organization by any member of the Craft, and that such use or exploitation of Masonry is contrary to' Masonic law and against the ancient, usages and customs of the Fraternity and, while I have done this with firmness, it has been with a spirit of toleration and brotherly love. Under t h e head of " C a u s e s of Dissension" t h e G r a n d M a s t e r quotes t h e following from t h e transactions of their G r a n d L o d g e i n 1921: Your committee condemns, in unmeasured terms, any statement by anyone, anywhere that Freemasonry is in any way responsible for or associated with the Ku Klux Klan. We unhesitatingly declare that the use of Masonry n an effort to buid up or sustain the Klan or any other organization is a Maonic offense and should be severely dealt with. We direct t h e a t t e n t i o n of our readers t o t h e l a t t e r p a r t of t h i s report wherein t h e G r a n d Lodge n o t only includes t h e K l a n b u t a n y other organization; in other words, it means t h a t Ancient C r a f t M a s o n r y s t a n d s alone and recognizes no organization or society o t h e r t h a n t h e Symbolic t h r e e degrees. Under t h e head of " U s e of t h e Word ' M a s o n i c ' " he s u b m i t s t h e following: My attention was called to the use of the word "Masonic" in the name of "El Paso Masonic Hospital Association" at El Paso, Texas. Upon my visit to EI Paso, I held a brief conference with some of the brethren relative to the matter. I found that El Paso, prior to the founding of this institution, hadl but one hospital—that operated by the Catholics; that many of the Masonss and Masonic bodies of El Paso are interested in this institution, and that same~ has, and is, filling a long-felt and needed place in said locality. I do not find;', that this Grand Lodge has ever authorized or given to the bodies at El Paso,, or to any of the brethren interested, the right to use the word "Masonic" in; the riame of said hospital. There are people over the State who, by use of thea name, have been of the opinion that the institution was a creature of the M a sonic Grand Lodge. To what extent such opinion exists, I do not know. My investigation and information convinces me that the institution is not one of purely charitable natiirc. I procured a copy of the charter of said institution! and have filed same with the Secretary of this Grand Lodge. I have no desire to interfere with the work of said hospital, but I do ask, however, for the. benefit of Masonry, that this Grand Lodge approve or disapprove its title i a connection with the use of the word "Masonic" in its name. Referring t o B r o t h e r P E A R S O N , their Grand Secretary, t h e G r a n d M a s t e r offered t h e following kind words: One of the greatest privileges and pleasures of my life has been the year through which I have just passed as Grand Master of Masons of Texas. It has been the greatest honor that has ever been, or ever will be, conferred upon me, and In doing my bit in the name of the Masonic Fraternity of this Jurisdiction I have had the full and united support of many brethren, none of whom havebeen more faithful and true in his efforts to serve the Grand Master than Right. Worshipful Brother W. B. PEARSON, our Grand Secretary. Brother PEARSON has gone out of his way to serve the Grand Master; he has traveled during hot summer days to bo present at Special'Communications, returning home at the midnight hour in order to be at his desk the following day. This Grand . Lodge numbers among its officers or members no more loyal or devoted brother than our Grand Secretary, whose reputation as such extends throughout the
502
CORRESPONDENCE—TEXAS.
February, •
Nation. To him I am deeply grateful for liis support, cooperation and confidence, and this Grand Lodge is to be congratulated on having such a man in the position he occupies. F r o m his conclusion we t a k e t h e following: We are mindful of the great service that our institution rendered in the early days of this, our Nation, and particularly at the time of the formation of tliis, the greatest Government of the world. We are also mindful of the great work and service rendered by the illustrious early day Masons of this, our beloved State, and in behalf of Texas' own .Jurisdiction, I call your attention t o tlie responsibilities that rest upon us, the present day Masons, In carrying forward the great principles of Truth, Justice, Liberty, Equality of Opportunity and Equal Rights of Humanity, and more especially the great obligation of Charity as taught by the symbolism of this, our noble Order. T e n decisions were rendered d u r i n g his a d m i n i s t r a t i o n , all of "which were of a local n a t u r e a n d n o t h i n g therefore is q u o t e d from this p a r t of his address. A resolution was offered b y one of t h e m e m b e r s , providing for t h e s e t t i n g aside and a d o p t i n g of M o t h e r ' s D a y as a M a s o n i c day, a n d t h a t each lodge observe such d a y w i t h a p p r o p r i a t e service. T h e resolut i o n w e n t t o a special c o m m i t t e e w h o of course m a d e an adverse r e p o r t . H o w long, Oh Lord, h o w long! Y'^ T h e R e p o r t on Correspondence w a s again p r e s e n t e d by M.'. W.v B r o t h e r S. M . BRADLEY and we are grateful t o h i m for a review of our 1925 Proceedings, in which h e q u o t e s m o s t of t h e i m p o r t a n t m a t t e r s which came before the G r a n d Lodge a t t h a t C o m m u n i c a t i o n . Referring t o M . . W.'. B r o t h e r S T R A I N rendering b u t t h r e e decisions we q u o t e t h e following: A rather remarl^able feature of Grand Master STRAIN'S address is that he 'reports only three decisions, and these are only construction of Masonic Law •in Kansas. Compared with Texas, this is like a mole hill by the side of a mountain. In Texas the Grand Master makes anywhere from 50 to ,100 decisions, none of which decide anything, but are only answers to questions which could be answered by reference t o the Monitor, or some pre\'lous decision. We are glad to know that Brother STRAIN believes the report on Foreign Correspondence is worth reading. W e do n o t mean t o be u n k i n d , b u t would call t h e a t t e n t i o n of B r o t h e r B R A D L E Y t o t h e n u m b e r of decisions rendered b y their G r a n d M a s t e r in 1924, which was 346. E D . R . B R Y A N , M.-. W . ' . G r a n d M a s t e r , M i d l a n d . W I L L I A M B . PEARSON, R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary, Waco.
W . M . F L Y , Correspondent. T h e writer h a s devoted almost a half h o u r in a n endeavor t o find w h e n a n d w h e r e t h e next Annual C o m m u n i c a t i o n will be held, b u t gives it u p as a b a d j o b . We also fail t o find t h e address of t h e C h a i r m a n of t h e C o m m i t t e e on Correspondence. As t h e writer has suggested a n u m b e r of t i m e s , t h e placing of t h e n a m e s a n d addresses of t h e G r a n d Officers, C h a i r m a n of t h e C o m m i t t e e on Correspondence a n d t h e d a t e a n d place for holding t h e next A n n u a l on t h e outside back cover is a l m o s t indispensible and we c a n n o t u n d e r s t a n d w h y B r o t h e r P E A R S O N does n o t fall in line on t h i s i m p o r t a n t m a t t e r .
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—UTAH.
503
UTAH —1926. Lodges, 25; m e m b e r s , 4,818; n e t gain, 84. Salt L a k e City, J a n u a r y 19, 1926. B E N J A M I N R O G E R S H O W E L L , M.*. W.'. G r a n d Master. M.-.W.". Brother A R T H U R C . W H E R R Y , our Grand Representative, was present. T h e G r a n d Master, in announcing t h e order of business, concluded with t h e following: Brethren, the mother of all of the higher degrees in Masonry is here holding her Annual Communication. I think we all enjoy hearing from the heads of the various children, if I may so speak, of this mother of ours. 1 am going to ask all these gentlemen to say a word to you. This would indicate t h a t t h e G r a n d Lodge . of U t a h is r a t h e r prolific; however, as his reference is only m a d e to t h r e e other o r g a n i zations we anticipate conditions are n o t quite as b a d as one m i g h t imagine from his r e m a r k s . G r a n d Master B E N J A M I N R . H O W E L L s u b m i t t e d an address dealing almost wholly with local m a t t e r s , leaving t h e writer of t h i s report b u t little t o quote. A half dozen lines covers his r e m a r k s in extending a welcome t o t h e b r e t h r e n . Referring t o visitations, he m s n t i o n s a joint form which we t a k e t o mean t h a t t h e y held a meeting similar t o our district meeting, a n d on this subject he h a d t h e following t o s a y : These joint visitations were all very enjoyable. There was a large attendance a t all of them and a large attendance always makes for enthusiasm. I doubt, however, whether outside of Ogden and Salt Lake, where the officers of the constituent Lodges have ready access to the officers of the Grand Lodge, the same Lodges ought to be included in joint visitations every year for the reason that the attention that can be given to the affairs of each Lodge Is necessarily lessened in proportion to the number visited and it is my experience that in each Lodge there are matters of importance that the ofBcers of the Lodge wish to discuss with the Grand Lodge officers and the Grand Lodge officers owe it to the ofQcers of the several constituent Lodges to afford opportunity on the occasion of these annual visitations for the giving of such advice as may be either desired or necessary. H e further refers t o t h e m e a n s of visiting the^lodges in r e m o t e p a r t s in t h e following words: The automobile enables the Grand Lodge officers to visit even the remotest of the constituent Lodges with a minimum expenditure of time, but I share with some of our Past Grand Masters the feeling that sometimes our visitations are all too hurried. We fulfill the letter of the law and it is my observation that both the Grand Lodge officers and the Brethren of the Lodges enjoy the visitations very much. Yet if there were more time on these occasions for friendly interchange of opinion, the Grand Lodge officers might become better' acquainted throughout the State and the Craft might benefit in many ways. On the other hand the Grand Lodge officers are without exception men who are busy with their own affairs and while they have been very generous In attending the
504
COBBESPONDENCE—UTAH.
February,
visitations, it is too much to aslt of them to devote more tliaii the absolutely necessary time to this portion of the. Grand Lodge work. In justice it must also be said that the brethren of the constituent Lodges are also busy with their 6wn affairs, arid where, for instance, the Grand Lecturer has been a member of the Grand Lodge visitation party and has proffered instruction in the Ritual in the afternoon before the meeting, there has been very little or no response because, as stated, the officers and members of the Lodge are apparently too busy with their own affairs to avail themselves of such opportunities. H e refers to the noted " K a i b a b C a r a v a n " in the following w o r d s : Kaibab Lodge No. 25 made its usual pilgrimage to Kaibab Forest and through the courtesy of the Grand Master of Arizona hold a special meeting in the Kaibab Forest on the night of July 21, 192.'j. I was unable to attend but delegated Past Master E. M. QUALTDOUGH of Acacia Lodge No. 17 to act as my representative. He reports a most inspiring meeting. The brethren of Kaibab Lodge deserve a great deal of credit for the initiative and energy they have shown in this and other affairs. Although it is ne.xt to the youngest Lodge in the state it has already done much good work, due, as good Masonic work always is due, to concerted effort by the members. H e brings o u t a good t h o u g h t in connection with Masonic funerals a n d we feel justified i n q u o t i n g his w o r d s : My observation is that our Fraternity often makes a very poor impression upon the public upon practically the only occasions when it appears in public, namely, at funerals, because- of thoughtlessness on the part of the brethren and lack of familiarity on the part of the officers and brethren with the funeral ritual. I am of the opinion that Grand Lodge should recommend to tl:.e constituent Lodges that their officers and members at convenient times rehearse the funeral ceremonies contained in the ritual both for use at the public funeral ceremonies and at the grave, until both officers and members are thoroughly familiar with the service and the various signs and movements which are a jiart of it. 1 would not go so far as to suggest that each lodge designate some Past Master regularly to officiate on all such occasions, but such a suggestion might not be amiss. The brethren also ought to be cautioned by their officers to refrain from smoking on such occasions and from loud conversation or laughter ' while the members are in view of the public. A word concerning Secretaries of lodges is included in his address which reads as follows: I observe from the Lodge returns that in at least one case a very young Mason has been elected Secretary of his Lodge. The Secretary of a Lodge . might be likened to the hub of a wheel. If he is the right kind of man he is the center of lodge activities and is usually retained in office as long as he is willing to keep the job. The Secretary can be and nearly always is the Master's most trusted and valued lieutenant. There may have been particular reasons for the choice in this case but it seems to me that Lodges ought to exercise great care in the selection of a Secretary and that generally speaking he ought to bo a seasoned member of the Craft.
While his suggestion concerning Stewards is not followed very often, yet it is a good proposition and worthy of favorable consideration on the part of any lodge: The suggestion has been made a number of times in the past few years that it would be well to have a t least one of the Stewards a Past Master so that the neophyte at our door might be assured such a reception as would
102(5-27.
COBBESPONDENCE—UTAH.
505
leave with him pleasant memories of the minutes devoted to preparation for our initiatory ceremonies. I am in hearty accord with this suggestion and hope that some of our Lodges will try the plan and see whether it is as good in practice as it seems to be in theory. In this" connection may I also say that it seems to me that the brotherly custom that prevails in many if not all of our Lodges of advancing a brother "once appointed to the line as .lunior Steward, each year during good behavior and without the scrutiny of his qualifications as they would have were he not in line, is all wrong. The elective officers of a Lodge, as well as the appointive ones, should be chosen for their qualifications successfully to govern the Lodge and to perform their respective functions in the Lodge and should not be advanced except for merit. The Report on Correspondence was again presented by R.". W.'. Brother SAM HENRY GOODWIN, their Grand Secretary, and his remarks, forming a preface to the report are excellent and the writer feels justified in quoting them in their entirety: There are two matters, frequently referred to in the following reviews, concerning which an additional word may not be amiss. The present writer has often observed that the beginnings of things have a perennial interest—a charm and fascination—for thoughtful people. And where no distinct highway can be discovered winding back through the mists to the genesis of far-off events; no blazed trail to guide otir restless feet, we are so constituted that we proceed to fabricate one—and to pronounce it "good." And it is good, as far as it goes. AH progress has been made possible; all accretions of human knowledge have come as a result of working from the known into the unknown. If illustrations of this fact were necessary, they could be supplied in abundance from the broad field of science. From the first day when man lifted his face from the clod and looked up, a longing for knowledge concerning the beginnings of things—for an explanation of observed phenomena—has increasingly gripped his imagination and engaged his attention. Away back yonder, at a point in time long since obscured by an impenetrable bank of fog—^the kindly dust of countless centuries—the oriental mind grappled with this subject. Pondering on things seen, and puzzling over the riddle-of the universe and of existence, a solution was finally reached that has satisfied many, which some unknown thinker put into the majestic language later given place as the opening words of the Great Light; "In the beginning GOD created the heaven and the earth." This same characteristic of man. the insatiable desire to know why. and when, and where things seen had their beginning—expressed by HESIOD twentyflve hundred years ago—has not been absent from any quest for knowledge that has marked man's upward progress through unrecorded millenniums to the present moment. In view of these considerations the fact need occasion no surprise that thoughtful Craftsmen, planting their feet on the outer edge of credible Craft history, have set out in an endeavor to penetrate the mists which shut them • from the beginnings of our Fraternity. Nor is it any cause for wonder that these venturesome path-finders return with findings so dissimilar. Necessarily, where'there are no clearly-marked courses to follow, the evaluation and Interpretation of the hints and fragments of facts discovered in the broad, uncharted field of the past differ widely, as men differ. In this situation we find no just grounds for criticism. Let this prospecting for facts go forward; the genuine metal of ascertained Truth is bound to be uncovered, and in "paying" quantities.
506
CORRESPONDENCE—UTAH.
February,
But out of this preliminary work—sometimes in spite of it—conditions have arisen to which the present writer would voice his earnest protest: indeed he has not hesitated to express his dissent, with emphasis, in the reviews which follow. Brethren who assume the role of teachers, in addresses and orations, continue to give currency to utterly absurd, fantastic and unsupported theories concerning the beginnings of Craft history. And this is done, usually, without so much as a suggestion of any qualiflcation. This is inexcusable. "Wo profess to be seekers after Truth. Yet we propagate, or permit and applaud the propagation of absolutely false and wholly misleading accounts of our origin. "Wily should any man, if in his right mind, assert that Masonry had a beginning "ceoval with the dawn of creation"? that it existed "before the morning stars sang together and all the sons of GOD shouted for joy"? Or why declare that it has been found that Masonry was practiced in the Garden of Eden, or foolishly if not blasphemously afBrm that members of the Trniity were the three offlcers of the first Lodge!! In the opinion of the present writer a man who can stand unblushingly, in the presence of his peers and give voice to such absurdities. Is sick—he should have the sympathetic attention of a skilled "nut"-doctor! Personally, we prefer the Mormon prophet's story of the origin of our society as it appears in his "Holy Scriptures, Translated and Corrected by the Spirit of Revelation." He tells us that satan made CAIX a "Master M a h a m " so that he might slay his brother ABEL and escape the consequences of his crime. (Gen. 5:14-16, 35, 37.) But why disseminate such unmitigated nonsense? There is so much in our history, and symbolism, and philosophy, and rituals, that is beautiful, and sane, and elevating, that could be presented, why should we have our intelligence insulted and our eyes filled with dust from the stirring of such worthless rubbish! If tliese irresponsible excursions into the "land of no-where" concerned, or affected, only those who undertake them, the situation would be different. But such is not the case. Often the atrocious caricatures of Craft history referred to above, come from men who have been honored by the Fraternity, and who, presumably, are men of sound sense and wisdom, and who have given time to study, and research, and meditation, and hence their words carry weight with the inexperienced and uninformed Mason. That is the pathetic, deplorable feature of the situation. Brethren of the Bound Table, have we no responsibility in tills matter? Why should we speak only "smooth things." and "prophesy deceits" by our silence, wlien we meet with such burlesques of our honorable Fraternity? Why not try tiie pillory, and make it so high that HAMAN'S " t r e e " would seem like a trellis for garden peas beside it? The second matter we had thought to consider in this connection lias to do with "Landmarks." Better, perhaps, with that calm, inexplicable assurance with which so many brethren use this term as though it represented a definitely known quantity: sometlilng within specific, exact and universally accepted boundaries. Space limitations, however, warn us that this subject must go over until next year. In the meantime, we may cherish the hope that by reviving the Terminalia, and by regularly, and with fitting reverence, invoking the aid of the god of boundaries, we may be duly and truly prepared to discuss this important subject with discrimination, clearness and moderation.
Kansas for 1925 is favored with four pages of his excellent report. He refers to the report of the writer submitted to our Grand Lodge one year ago concerning the Kansas-New Hampshire matter and wonders " w h a t particular manufacturers or compilers of 'landmarks' he had in mind." Brother GOODWIN ventures to say that we surely' did not refer to MACKEY. That is just to whom we did refer and we
1920-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—VERMONT.
507
direct B r o t h e r G O O D W I N ' S a t t e n t i o n t o t h e F o u r t e e n t h L a n d m a r k as prescribed b y t h a t distinguished Masonic scholar. W e fear B r o t h e r G O O D W I N d i d n o t carefully read t h e r e p o r t s u b m i t t e d b y t h e u n d e r signed t o our G r a n d Lodge one year ago. We are n o t dealing w i t h m a n u f a c t u r e d goods of a n y kind, neither a r e we juggling t h e compilations of t h e so-called Masonic scholars, m a n y of w h o m a r e t a k i n g a d v a n t a g e of exploiting their own ideas of Craft M a s o n r y t h r o u g h t h e Masonic Service Association of t h e U n i t e d States, b u t we a r e dealing with t h e very foundation principles of M a s o n r y as established b y t h e fathers. F u r t h e r reference t o this subject will b e found in t h e introduction t o this report. F R E D M O R G A N N Y E , M . ' . W . - . Grand Master, Ogden.
SAM H E N R Y GOODWIN, pondent, Salt L a k e City.
R.-. W . - . G r a n d Secretary
a n d Corres-
N e x t Annual, Salt Lake City, J a n u a r y 18, 1927.
VERMONT —1926, Lodges, 1 0 3 ; members, 18,942; n e t gain, 260. B u r l i n g t o n , J u n e 9, 1926.
CHRISTIE B . CROWELL,
M.'.W.'.Grand
Master. Our G r a n d Representative a n d ' their G r a n d Secretary, R.". W.'. H E N R Y H . R O S S , r e s p o n d e d for our j u r i s d i c t i o n .
T h e G r a n d M a s t e r introduced his address in t h e following w o r d s : Assembled in our 1.33rd Annual Communication it is a pleasure to-extend to each of you cordial fraternal greetings, hoping that success and prosperity have attended your steps during the past year and that the same peace and harmony wliich has characterized our gatherings in years past may prevail during tiie coming session. Again we owe to the Great Creator of the Universe tlie praise and gratitude of our hearts for a year unmarked by untoward events. Our way has been smooth and our journeying tranquil and pleasant. Our official ranks are unbroken and we trust they will remain so for a long time to come. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r referred t o t h e subject of t h e " P a s t M a s t e r ' s Degree," a n d concluded with t h e following recommendation which was a d o p t e d : I. recommend that hereafter no Master elect be allowed to preside over his lodge until the law above quoted has been complied with and duplicate reports-have been mailed by the Secretary of the Past Masters' lodge conferring the degree upon him to the Grand Master and Grand Secretary, which reports shall give the names of the Master elect, the ofBcers conferring the degree and the number of the Past Masters present when the degree is conferred. T h e resolution presented one year ago permitting t h e Order of D e M o l a y t o u s e t h e lodge room, w a s b r o u g h t u p a t this C o m m u n i cation a n d t h e G r a n d Lodge decided t h a t n o exceptions would be m a d e a n d therefore t h e use of t h e lodge room w a s denied t h i s organization.
508
CORRESPONDENCE—VERMONT.
February.
W e a r e pleased t o q u o t e t h e following words from his conclusion: Brethren I wonder if we are open to the criticism of being content to float about in the eddy of indifference when the current of Masonic life, activity and thought should have carried us on to higher and better things, to larger fields . of usefulness and service. Ignorance may be bliss but it is far from folly to be informed regarding the Masonic progress of the day and the various organizations bearing the approval of the fraternity which have come into being during the last few years. AVe cannot stand aloof indefinitely and continue to hold up our heads among pur brethren round about. The time has gone by, if it ever was. when Masons can proudly consider themselves as considerably better than the average run of men and by so doing justify failure as good citizens. More and more insistent comes the demand for deeds in the place of words and less and less are claims taken at their face value and respect given to traditional virtue and merit claimed by the descendants of those whose possession of those ciualities in ample measure distinguished them among their brethren. There is no surer way to dry up s.vmpathy. kindness and regard than indulgence in that feeling of superiority which is the natural result of dwelling upon past performance or record. Others care nothing for alibi and not much more for history and we face the ever-growing demand that organizations as well as men be judged according to achievement. Our mission is service and that implies and demands far more than good ritualistic ceremony or excellent floor work. These are well and the emphasis ])laced upon them is well bestowed but they are too highly valued if they are regarded as anything more than the means to an end and that end is the bringing of the elect and through them those whom in some degree they influence into a place of larger outlook on the great problems of life, of deeper sympathy with our brothers In need, of high resolve to do our part in making the world a cleaner, brighter, and better place in which to live. Such is the nature of our engagement as Master Masons and to these duties we are bound by the most solemn ties. Another a t t e m p t was m a d e t o commit t h e G r a n d Lodge t o m e m bership in t h e Masonic Service Association of t h e United S t a t e s ; however, t h e proposition w a s laid over until t h e next Annual Communication. M.-..W.-. B r o t h e r A R C H I E S . H A R R I M A N s u b m i t t e d t h e usual R e p o r t on Correspondence a n d we observe t h a t it is u p t o full s t a n d a r d . H e gives t o our jurisdiction almost four pages of his excellent review. We n o t e , however, t h a t his prediction concerning t h e admission of t h e D e M o l a y t o t h e i r lodge r o o m s — t h a t t h e y w o u l d ' w i n — w a s n o t in accord w i t h t h e action of their Grand Lodge a t t h e C o m m u n i c a tion j u s t reviewed. W e do n o t m e a n t o b e cruel, b u t t h e o p p o r t u n i t y was t o o good t o let i t pass b y . F R E D E R I C K H . B A B B I T T , M . . W . - . G r a n d M a s t e r , Bellows Falls. H E N R Y H . R O S S , R . - . W . - . G r a n d Secretary, Burlington. A R C H I E S . H A R R I M A N , P . . G.-. M . - . , C o r r e s p o n d e n t , M i d d l e b u r y .
N e x t A n n u a l , Burlington, J u n e 15, 1927.
i926s27.
CORRESPONDENCE—VICTORIA.
509
VICTORIA—1925. Lodges, 324; m e m b e r s , 38,392; n e t gain, 3,809. A Q u a r t e r l y C o m m u n i c a t i o n was held in M e l b o u r n e , M a r c h 18, 1925. B r o t h e r E D W A R D T H O M A S A P P S , our G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e , w a s
present. T h e G r a n d Secretary's report precedes t h e address of t h e G r a n d Master a n d from it we learn t h a t their library is handled t h r o u g h membership, which h a s now reached 362. T h e y a r e now proposing t o establish a traveling library for t h e use of c o u n t r y lodges. F r o m t h e G r a n d Master's address we t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following: I have had especial reason lately to know how true is the feeling of Brotherly love which exists amongst Masons by the many expressions of sympathy extended to LADY STBADBROKE and myself on our recent bereavement, both by the Lodges and by individual Brethren, and it has made me realise that, though I am thousands of miles away from my old home, I am living in a land where I am very fortunate in having many friends. It is Indeed an honor to find oneself the head of this grand Institution, to be able to say, as on the three preceding years, that there is every indication of the continuation of the great progress being made that I have noticed ever since my arrival in Australia. We now have a membership of over 40,000. which big number has been arrived at by the initiation of over 4,000, and the aSaiiation of over 2,000 Brethren during the last twelve months. There have been a number of resignations and deaths, too many resignations, I think, and as I have said on previous occasions, in my opinion the reasons for so many resigning are that, owing to the great number of initiations, there is great repetition of the work at the Lodge meetings, and the opportunities for the newly-initiated Brethren being appointed to ofBce seem to be very remote. I am glad to hear that the suggestion that lectures on Masonic History should be given from time to time has been taken up with success.
Tlie ciuestion may be naturally asked, " W h a t position does our everextending institution occupy in the affairs of the general community?" Institutions, like abstract terms, may not always be comprised within the limits of mere definition. We feel very often what we cannot express. Masonry does, however, lay down rules of conduct, and does seek to indicate the proper relative position to be taken up in dealings with others. Masonry also seeks to place moral law above mere mechanical achievement, and to bridge the gulf between principles and their actual application. Alasonry has a distinctive feature in its charitable objects and incentives. I do not think the Brethren would ever be content with merely meeting in their Lodges and then dispersing. I have on previous occasions indicated the necessity of Brethren equipping themselves with knowledge of Masonic history and tradition: true knowledge strengthens the character; our Kitual and teachings enshrined therein are better understood when we know the historical setting and when their full meaning and significance is explained. But, after all, the corner stone of Masonic structure is Charity in its broadest and most genuine sense, and as the word Is translated now in the more recent editions of the Volume of the Sacred Law, by the word Love; there is charity of Tolerance, the charity of the recognition of the opinions of others, and the charity involved in assisting others less for-
510
CORRESPONDENCE—VICTORIA.
Kebmary.
tunate than ourselves. The charitable impulses of the Brethren are most praiseworthy. The Masonic Homes in Punt Road demonstrate the anxiety of the Brethren to bring hapi>iness into the lives of the aged and infirm. Should we not extend these charitable impulses? Probably it would not be too much to say that an organisation becomes permanently stable and secure in proportion to the institutions connected with it. f^nglish Freemasonry is a typical example of this proposition. The great institutions there of the Girls' and the Boys' Schools, the Homos and the annuities for the aged, and tlie Masonic Hospital, emphasise how our iSnglish Freemasonry, has established itself in tlie life of the community. It is always advisable to have some definite purpose and some concrete aim as our desire. The English institutions liad small beginnings, but the tiny rivulet grows into the large flowing river. Before I leave this territory may I ask you to deliberate upon the founding of an institution such as 1 have referred to. For instance, Worshipful Brother RUSPINI in 1788 founded the Masonic Girls' School at Clapliam, near London, in quite a humble way—now it is one of the brightest gems of Masonic Charity. I t should be clearly emphasised that such schools here would not in any way compete with tho schools already in existence, but to train young people in a Masonic atmosphere for some years would necessarily he conducive to developing good members of the community. The Masonic schools in England are run on a very higli level, and in a return I received two days ago 1 noticed that for the Cambridge examination, which is a fairly severe test as to the l^nowledge of the scholars, where as the average throughout the whole country of those that passed was 50 per cent, of those who had entered, the average of one of these Masonic sciiools during the last four years was 95 jicr cent., and at the last examination, out of 41 of those who entered, 10 gained honors and 17 distinctions. The Grand .Secretary continues to cai-ry out his duties with an urbanity that is not to be disturbed by any upheaval, however volcanic, and the quickness with which he transferred all the arrangements for this evening's ceremony hero from the Town Hall on the recent disastrous fire tliere calls for admiration, while the Grand Director of Ceremonies has carried through all the ceremonial procedure excellently. A Q u a r t e r l y C o m m u n i c a t i o n was lield in M e l b o u r n e , J u n e 7, 1925.
Brother
EDWARD THOMAS APPS,
our
Grand
Representative,
was a t his post of d u t y . T h e R e p o r t of t h e B o a r d of General P u r p o s e s was presented a t t h i s C o m m u n i c a t i o n a n d we quote therefrom t h e following: The Board deprecates the growing tendency to publish in the daily press reports of Lodge Installations and other Masonic functions, and urges Masters and Secretaries to use every effort to supress the publication of Masonic news in the public press, and refer such news to the Masonic Journal. .Special attention is directed to Ride 179 of the Book of Constitutions. A n o t h e r Q u a r t e r l y C o m m u n i c a t i o n w a s held S e p t e m b e r 16, 1925, B r o t h e r E D W A R D T H O M A S A P P S , our G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e , r e s p o n d -
ing on behalf of K a n s a s . T h e G r a n d Master A m e r i c a n fleet:
h a d t h e following
t o s a y concerning t h e
The visit of the American Fleet was an event of international importance. There were very many Brethren from the Fleet who accepted the hospitality of this Grand, Lodge. The entertainment given to them on the evening of Friday, 31st July, was well attended by both officers and men, who were most
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—VICTORIA.
511
anxious to express their appreciation. The outing to Nathania Springs was most enjoyable, giving the American Brethren a welcome opportunity of getting some glimpses of Victorian b^'sh landscape scenery. The visitation of these Brethren will serve in every way to strengthen the Masonic ties of friendsliip and be most helpful in increasing the good understanding between the Empire and United States. We quote from t h e r e p o r t of t h e Board of General P u r p o s e s t h e following, which m a y seem r a t h e r queer t o our own b r e t h r e n : The attention of the Board has been directed to the existence of certain irregular bodies styling themselves Masonic, such as the "Order of the Eastern Star," to which women are admitted as members, and which, by adopting phraseology and formulae used by the Craft, have led some to believe that they are duly constituted Masonic bodies. The Board feels that it is its duty to make it clearly understood that such bodies are in every respect irregular. They have no connection whatever with, and have been formed without authority from this Grand Lodge. The Board has recommended the M..W.'. Grand Master to issue a iironouncemcnt on this matter. I n view of w h a t t r a n s p i r e d a t our own G r a n d Lodge a t t h e l a s t Annual C o m m u n i c a t i o n we q u o t e t h e following r e m a r k s from t h e M.". W.'. P r o G r a n d Master, following t h e presentation of his p o r t r a i t in oils: The time is now approaching when those affectionate Masonic ties which connected all Freemasons in this Territory with the M.'.W.'. Grand Master will soon be severed. In tlie course of a few months the M .•. W.\ Grand Master will betake himself to his old home County of Suffolk, where he is held in such high regard and esteem. It was felt by all of us that it would be particularly apt and appropriate that some permanent memorial should remain with us to remind us (if sucli were necessary) of the great services that the M .'. W .*. Grand Master has rendered to Freemasonry in this Territory. From time Immemorial manldnd has endeavoiu'ed to put into definite expression, either in marble or on canvas, some enduring remembrance of distinguished men who have rendered signal service to their country or its institution. If you visit the great galleries of the world you will find numerous artistic expressions of men and women who have devoted their lives in benefiting the communities in which they may happen to reside. Can one ever forget the wonderful portrait of Mona Lisa painted by that genius, LEONARDO DA A'INCI. some four himdred years ago? Mona Lisa, with her enigmatic, dark inscrutable smile, is one of the glories of the Louvre. All students of literature know the affectionate friendship between the great Sir JOSHUA KEYNOLDS and that equally great Englishman, Dr. SAMUEL. JOHNSON, with all an Englishman's prejudices, good nature, integrity and solidity of purpose. Hence the wonderful portrait of Dr. JOHNSON by Sir. JOSHUA is painted not only with great artistic skill, but expressive of how the great artist also was actuated by a loving con amore with his subject. It was therefore singularly apt and appropriate that Freemasons should employ the best artist they could find in Victoria, Mr. JOHN LONGSTAFF, to paint a portrait of the M.'.W.'. Grand Master to express our appreciation, esteem and affection for him, not only as the representative of His Majesty the King, not only as the M.-.W.'. Grand Master, but also as a gentleman who has fine Instincts, a keen sense of duty, and an ever present desire to be always at the service of the community in which he moved. Hence, there was a universal wish that there should be some permanent, enduring expression of him, so that when he left Australia we should have a perpetual reminder of our regard and esteem for him. We received our M.'. W.'. Grand Master into Victoria with abundant and exuberant delight, and we will part with him with great regret.
512
CORRESPONDENCE—VIRGINIA.
February,
We all feel that he has formed an ever-continuing link between Australia and the homeland of Great Britain. As our Grand Master he has successfully carried out his duties, and as Governor of this State he has endeared himself to all sections of the community. I have been asked to be the medium of asking the M.'."VV.". Grand Master to graciously accept this portrait from the Freemasons of Victoria as some slight expression of our indication of our goodwill and affection towards him, and how we valued the ideals he had set before us.
The next and last Communication held this year was on December 16, 1925, at which our Grand Representative, Brother EDWARD THOMAS APPS, was present. Dealing with the death of the late QUEEN ALEXANDRA the Grand
Master offered the following: I t is with great sorrow that 1 arise to submit a resolution of sympathy from the Brethren in this Province in regard to the death of QUEE.V ALEXANDRA. We wish to e.xpress our deep and respectful sympathy with His Majesty the King, Her Majesty the Queen, and the members of the Eoyal Family, and we, as loyal subjects, do feel sincerely and truly the loss the whole Empire has sustained by the death of our beloved Queen Mother. Those of us who have lived In England have been acquainted with the extraordinary affection In which the Queen Mother was held in the hearts of the people. What she has done in the cause of charity is well known. Eose Day, wliich Her Majesty Inaugurated, has become an institution, not only in the homeland, but in other parts throughout the Dominions beyond the seas. I know that you will all support this resolution from the depths of your hearts. The resolution is:— " T h e United Grand Lodge of Freemasons of Victoria desires to express and record its deepest regret a t the death of Her Majesty Queen Mother ALEXANDRA, who, with unfailing tact, courtesy, and true gentleness of disposition created for herself an ever-enduring affection throughout the whole of the Empire, in this way strengthening .the link binding the British people into a set purpose of a united national endeavour. "This Grand Lodge further desires to express its staunch and unwavering loyalty to the Throne, and its fixed determination to maintain those principles essential to Empire development and consolidation." T h e usual Report on C o r r e s p o n d e n c e was s u b m i t t e d , which includes a review of our 1925 Proceedings. T H E E A R L OP S T R A D B R O K E , M . - . W . ' . G r a n d M a s t e r . W I L L I A M STEWART, R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary, Melbourne.
VIRGINIA—1926. Lodges, 352; members, 47,331; net gain, 1,770. Richmond, February 9, 1926.
CHARLES H . CALLAHAN, M.-. W.-.
Grand Master. We take pleasure in quoting the following from the preface to the Grand Master's address: To the observant and critical mind speculative Freemasonry, which began In a distinct sense with the organization of the Grand Lodge of England, furnishes the most remarkable record of achievement in the history of temporal Institutions. Born in an humble environment and in an age of dire superstition It has come down to us through the turbulent and transitory scenes of two
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centuries bearing a message of liope and good will towards men. Conscious of Its exalted mission, with a righteous contempt for its traducers and clothed in the mantle of high purpose, it stands out in all lands where religious freedom obtains among the leading benefactors of mankind outside of the church of GOD. It challenges no man's political or religious affiliations, wages no campaign for supremacy among its contemporary fraternal orders and in an exemplification of its cardinal virtues and a conservative application of true benevolence seeks to render unselfish service to the cause of humanity. "God moves in a mysterious way His wonders to perform." This great truth is as apparent in modern as in ancient times, in temporal as in Divine affairs. With celestial wisdom He inspired an awkward youth from Hanover to sound the tocsin of alarm which drove a faltering people to war for American independence. He selected a provincial from the borders of Truro to subdue the legions of an arrogant monarch, divide the English Empire and erect a mighty republic in a wilderness. He chose a recluse from the pastoral scenes and pineclad hills of Fairfax County to draft the noblest chart of liberty ever conceived by mortal man and to model the basic law of America's first republic. He called from the carefree easy life a stripling barrister to regulate commercial and international law, define the limits of a great nation's legislative body and its Chief Executive by an adroit and wise application of judicial power. These are but a few of Virginia's great apostles of liberty chosen by.the Supreme Architect of the Universe in a time of imminent danger to lead the way to the political emancipation of a peace loving people and the establishment of a future world power on the benign principles of justice and equal rights. As we look back through the dim vistas of the past, to the birthday of our speculaitive institution we are forced to the conclusion that this same Omnipotent and All Wise influence selected as His instrument JAMES ANDERSON, the humble Scotch prelate, to collate and compile those enduring principles upon which our order is founded as a part of the Divine concept in the onward march and moral uplift of the human race. This my brethren is a brief outline of rriy conception of the profound and unsolved mystery which explains the constant growth and triumphant career of Freemasonry and I believe it will survive and continue to prosper as long as we merit the approval of Onmipotent GOD and faithfully practice the tenets of our profession. Under t h e h e a d of " M a s o n i c E d u c a t i o n " we feel constrained t o quote t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s words, believing this subject is w o r t h y of t h e consideration of all other G r a n d Lodges: In some localities in Virginia T have found a marked deficiency in Masonic education of almost every character and particularly in the ritualistic work. How to overcome these embarrassing conditions, so far as they relate to the ritual, without excessive cost to the Grand Lodge, is a problem which demands and to some extent has received our serious consideration. AVhen we consider the size of Virginia and the scattered condition of its outlying lodges and then compare our facilities for teaching the work with other jurisdictions we can perhaps in a measure realize the utter futility of our present plan and how utterly impossible it is for our Grand Lecturer and his five assistants or division lecturers (who as they receive only small compensation necessarily operate in confined limits) to keep the jurisdiction up to a proper standard of proficiency. North Carolina with fewer lodges and a smaller Masonic population more compactly located than ours has nine paid Grand Lecturers constantly employed to teach the ritual and one additional. Professor AVICKER, of Elon College, devotes a part of his time to giving instructions on symbolism. Tennessee, with a Masonic population about the same as Virginia, has tliree regular Grand Lecturers and I am informed Is not satisfied ^vith this limited number. A large number of other jurisdictions in addition to those named have taken advanced steps to improve their ritualistic conditions and in this Mary-
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land perhaps leads the way and has for years. We perhaps in a measure fail to consider the important fact that Virginia has considerably more than doubled her Masonic population in the last fifteen years while we have made absolutely no preparation to meet tlie increased demands for instruction. It is therefore a matter of great importance that we settle on some practical system or plan to co-ordinate our forces and call all available talent to active service as teachers. We have held several meetings of the District Deputies which will be later referred to more extensively. At these meetings much valuable information concerning this particular-subject was obtained. After carefully weighing all the testimony as it were I am convinced, and in this opinion the Grand Lecturer concurs, that we must do one of two things if we wish to improve our ritualistic condition and maintain it at a high standard and that no time must be lost in adopting one or tlie other of these plans. We must either employ regular paid assistants to the present Grand Lecturer at large expense or establish schools in the various districts and urge the Lodges to send at least their stationed officers to these schools of instruction. The Grand Lodge at its last Grand Annual Communication adopted a recommendation of the Grand Master that no brother can be installed as Master of a Lodge until he shall have received the degree of Past Master and shall have received from the Grand Lecturer or a division lecturer a certificate certifying that he is qualified to confer all the degrees. This law becomes effective in December, 1926. Our Grand Lecturer informs me that the above requirement has greatly stimulated interest in the study of the ritual and is vital to the future development of ritualistic education in our Jurisdiction. Nevertheless it is our bounden duty to provide adequate and convenient facilities for instructing the officers affected and those who will be later. In the event that we adopt and carry out the plan which will be recommended and which provides for the establishment of schools of instruction in various localities much of our trouble will be overcome and ample opportunities given the officers of every Lodge in the State to learn the work at liniiited cost and without great inconvenience. When these schools are organized at convenient points and those entrusted with the important duties of conferring the degrees and presiding over and governing the Lodges fail to attend then all such officers are manifestly deficient in Masonic zeal and interest in the welfare of their Lodge and should not be elevated to the East. We are pleased to s t a t e , however, t h a t t h i s proposition has already been considered by our own G r a n d Lodge a n d for a n u m b e r of years we h a v e been putting forth every effort possible to bring to t h e att e n t i o n of t h e Craft t h e beautiful lessons t a u g h t in Ancient Craft M a s o n r y . At each of our a n n u a l district meetings (seventy-five in n u m b e r ) we have not only a talk from one of t h e Grand Officers, b u t t h e b r e t h r e n are permitted t o listen t o a scholarly address prepared u n d e r t h e direction of t h e G r a n d Lodge. This address is first delivered before G r a n d Lodge a n d t h e n at each district meeting and finally it is r e a d in e v e r y lodge. We t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following few words from t h e subject of " M a s o n i c L i t e r a t u r e " : Many of the so-called Masonic publications of today possess little, if any, merit from either a literary or educational standpoint. Most of such publications are purely commercial enterprises operated for selfish gain and are generally of an inflammatory or sensational character. To subscribe to such literature encourages radicalism, a spirit foreign to the true purpose of Freemasonry and should be avoided with the utmost care.
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W e are pleased t o q u o t e t h e following from t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s conclusion: Bj- united and constant effort I believe we liave passed tlie zone of stagnant IndifTerence. Let us not turn baclt to tiie days of apathy, but strive to attain t h e meridian of success. We are climbing the heights ofnobler purpose to a broader sphere of usefulness, let us press on the summit that we may look down from the crest of achievement upon fields of activity rich and redolent ^vith t h e fruits of our labor. With a courage unfaltering and a zeal undiminished, let us bear the banner of Masonry, the symbol of virtue and of honor, triumphant in every line of constructive service that the generations coming on may look upon this era with a sense of unfeigned gratitude and with one accord acclaim "Well done, thou good and faithful servant, thou hast been faithful over a few things I will make thee ruler over many things, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord." Through the report of the Committee on National Masonic Service Association the Grand Lodge decided to refrain from becoming a member thereof. Later on in the Proceedings we note the following report of t h e Committee on Jurisprudence concerning the promulgation of w h a t might be termed "Masonic knowledge" among the Craft in t h a t jurisdiction: Each District Deputy Grand Master shall recommend to the Grand Master two Master Masons in his district who may be appointed by the Grand Master as Masonic speakers, who shall serve during tlie current Masonic year, and to each of whom there shall be issued a commission under seal of t h e Grand Lodge and signed by the Grand Master. The Masonic speakers shall visit each Lodge for which they are commissioned as often as they are requested •by the District Deputy Grand Master, but not less than twice in each year, and deliver lectures on such subjects as are hereinafter provided for. Said Masonic speakers shall receive no compensation for their services within' their own districts, but the Lodge visited by them shall pay their actual expenses. If any of said Masonic speakers are invited by the District Deputy Grand Master of another district or by a Lodge mthout his own district, the said Masonic speaker shall be entitled to receive such compensation as shall be agreed upon between him and said Lodge. The Grand Master may causei to be prepared, from time to time, the subject of the lectures limited to Masonic matter to be delivered by said Masonic speakers, together with such data as he may deem necessary or advisable, which subjects and data shall be distributed by the Grand Secretary to each Masonic speaker, with a copy to each District Deputy Grand Master. The Grand Secretary shall prepare and mail to each Lodge a list of the several Masonic speakers, giving their names, addresses and the Masonic district to which each one belongs, showing tha Lodges within each district. The usual high standard Report on Correspondence is again presented by M.-. W.'. Brother JOSEPH W . EGGLESTON and we are under obligations for a review of our 1925 Proceedings. We regret to say, however, that our New Hampshire brethren refused to accept t h e extended hand of brotherly love and reconciliation offered by M.". W.'. Brother STRAIN. This is another evidence of the Masonic spirit manifested by the representatives of the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire.
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W h a t a wonderful help i t would b e t o t h e b r e t h r e n w h o write t h e R e p o r t s on Correspondence if B r o t h e r N E S B I T T would p r i n t on t h e o u t s i d e back cover of his Proceedings t h e place a n d date for holding t h e n e x t Annual C o m m u n i c a t i o n , a n d i t would be even better if he would p r i n t t h e names a n d addresses of t h e G r a n d Officers a t t h e s a m e place. W. B . B E A C H , M . - . W . - . G r a n d M a s t e r , Danville. C H A R L E S A. N E S B I T T , R . - . W . - . G r a n d S e c r e t a r y , R i c h m o n d . J O S E P H W . EGGLESTON, P.-.G.-. M . - . , Correspondent, Richmond.
N e x t Annual, R i c h m o n d , F e b r u a r y 8, 1927.
WASHINGTON —1925. L o d g e s , 269; m e m b e r s , 44,780; n e t gain, 1,973. H o q u i a m , June 16, 1925; R O B E R T C . M C C R O S K E Y , M.-.W.-. Grand Master. W e r e g r e t t o n o t e t h e absence of o u r G r a n d Representative a t this Communication. T h e G r a n d Representatives were f o r m a l l y received a n d t h e G r a n d H o n o r s were given. F r o m t h e address of welcome delivered b y W.-. B r o t h e r G E O R G E G. W A R E , on behalf of H o q u i a m Lodge N o . 64, although he is a m e m ber of a N e b r a s k a lodge, we t a k e p l e a s u r e in quoting t h e following: Just pause there. Try to tliink what I thought five years ago when I arrived here and was given one year only in wliich to live. The thought came Into my mind that these waters tliat are lapping the sliores of Grays Harbor are exactly the identical waters which thrashed themselves against the rockbound shores of Britain before the advent of JULIUS CAESAH; that these are the same identical waters that spent themselves on the Island of Malta and that bore upon their bosoms the scows which carried from Joppa the timber to erect KING SOLOMON'S Temple!
Times have changed; men have changed; customs have changed; shore lines have changed; but it is the same old emblem of instability which ebbs and flows twice every twenty-four hours down here in Grays Harbor that ebbed and flowed from the time that GOD Almighty sent forth His flat o'er primeval chaos. Sil lux el lux tuU! Lot there be light, and there was light. I n t h e preface t o t h e message of t h e G r a n d Master he extends a welcome t o t h e new m e m b e r s , as follows: To those of you who meet with us for the first time, it is our wish that you . may feel at home and that you freely participate in our deliberations. Remember that those who have been the active workers in Grand Lodge must soon pass on, leaving the work In your hands. U n d e r t h e subject of " F r a t e r n a l Visits t o Foreign J u r i s d i c t i o n s " he r e p o r t s a visit accompanied b y several o t h e r G r a n d Officers, t o t h e G r a n d L o d g e of Oregon, where t h e y witnessed t h e conferral of t h e M a s t e r M a s o n degree b y t h e Policemen's T e a m of P o r t l a n d . We h a v e
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h e a r d and read of all m a n n e r of so-called degree teams, b u t this is t h e first instance where we ever heard of a " p e a c e officers'" t e a m . Under the head of r e c o m m e n d a t i o n s , he s u b m i t s t h e following: In my travels and visits over the jurisdiction this past year, I have been impressed with the fact that a large majority of our Lodges are not operating on a sound financial basis. In most of the Lodges in this jurisdiction, not only are the dues used to pay the running expenses, but also a part or all of the fees collected from candidates petitioning for the degrees are used for such purposes. This is not sound business; and as a Masonic Lodge is not only ^ fraternal organization, but also a business one, the finances of a Masonic Lodge should be run in a business manner. I feel that a Lodge should pay all of its ordinary expenses out of the dues, and that the fees for the degrees should be used as a reserve fund and for charitable piu'poses. H e concludes his address in t h e following words: Freemasonry is not only an idealistic institution, but it is also a commonsense one. I think that it is the common-sense side we have been neglecting. Idealism may carry us on for awhile by its own momentum, but there must be a basic foundation of common-sense before any idealistic institutioQ can endiire. Therefore, let us not forget this fact, and apply the rule of common-sense to ' the working of our every-day Masonic lives. As a result. Freemasonry in this Jurisdiction should make greater strides than ever before. F r o m t h e G r a n d Secretary's r e p o r t we notice t h a t in accordance with t h e action of t h e G r a n d Lodge one year ago the proper c o m m i t t e e h a s purchased a site for a new H o m e a t Zenith a n d plans are now u n d e r w a y for this excellent m o n u m e n t of charity, all of which speaks well for our Washington b r e t h r e n . U n d e r t h e subject of " S p e a k e r s ' B u r e a u " we quote t h e following^ although we are only half h e a r t e d in t h e m a t t e r of selecting so m a n y speakers, as great care should be t a k e n t o see t h a t such brethren a r e n o t advancing t h o u g h t s and ideas which are not in accoird with t h e policy of their G r a n d Lodge, or in keeping with t h e teachings of t h e institution: The Speakers' Bureau is well begun. Forty-seven splendidly equipped men and Masons have volunteered their services as speakers. They are willing to address Lodges on prepared subjects, some for short talks, others for longer addresses, on the different phases of Masonry. Other speakers are available on topics of general educational interest. In response to direct requests, we have furnished speakers for 130 Masonic meetings, and our speakers are now booked as far ahead as November. These meetings have ranged in attendance from 30 to • 800, making a total in attendance of 10,000. (This does not include the audience, both visible and invisible, who heard Dr. HAYWOOD'S address at the Shrine Auditorium on the night of March 29.) Illustrated Lectures We have also furnished illustrated lectures, lanterns and slides for some twenty Masonic meetings, and more than forty Lodges have been represented at these meetings. The subjects of these lectures are "Civilian Patriots of the American Eevolutlon" and "Military Patriots of the American Revolution." Both of which not only Inspire patriotism, but point out the very Important part which Masonry played In the forming of our national government.
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February,
A splendid and touching address concerning the life of their late Past Grand Master Brother RALPH CLAPP MCALLASTER, was prepared and read by M/.W.'. Brother JAMES H . BEGG. A splendid oration was delivered by W.'. Brother ARTHUR W . DAVIS, and we are pleased to quote a part thereof: Life is the soul, aspiring. Who are we? Where did we come from? What are we here for? Whither are we going? These are questions which have perplexed men from civilization's dawn. Apparently we have not gone far, for the world today is agitated and upset with metaphysical abstruse and bewildering discussions concerning them. Have we evolved from the jelly-fish, by regular ascent, through the invertebrate, the flsh, the amphibia, the reptile a n d the mammal, or came we forth, full-fledged, a creation of the Most High? Are we here, mere animals, to fight for our daily bread, to plunder and crowd our fellows, to gather about us an extraordinary share of this world's goods, or will our lives be measured by certain, fixed rules of conduct—certain and fixed, because laid down and established by a Power that sways the Universe? Are we single-celled jelly-flsh, swimming about in humanity's endless sea, or lazy reptiles, crawling on our bellies over our less fortunate fellows, to live, flght and die, or have wc an immortal spirit " T h a t will survive the grave and • flourish in Eternal Spring?" An abtruse discussion of the Science or Philosophy involved in these -questions leads only to doubts and misgivings—rather do I choose to approach the meaning and mission of life through the GOD-spark that has glowed in •every human breast. Manliind has, in all ages, longed for the Infinite. A divine Impulse has ever caused men to "Lift up their eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh their help." Religious conceptions existed during all periods of Egyptian history. Endowed temples were their outward manifestations. In Assyria and Babylonia, the Great Scmetic Melting Pot, the people were very 'religious—all their wars were carried on in the names of their Gods. The Hindoos worshipped their. God. Brahma; the Persians, Mithra: the Greeks, Adonis and Apollo. All searchers for truth follow a common path, the earliest vemblems of antiquity betray the kinship of the human mind with the Eternal. GOD is, GOD in the beginning. GOD now. GOD always. ^Masonry is founded on that great truth—the oneness and love of G O D — tliat He is the Commander-in-Chief of a universe that operates with perfect harmony. A GOD of unity, and love, inspires the hope that mankind too will some day approach that same unity and love and that it will live in a world free from discord. With that belief goes the other Truth, that is common to Christian, Mohammedan, the followers of Confucius and Buddha—that the soul is immortal. I t is not claimed that these truths originated in Masonry or that Masonry is the only force which has served to keep them alive. The truths themselves are of divine origin—they reveal themselves naturally because of the GOD in man. Humanity, stamped with an Immortal spirit, as a tree brings forth fruit, finds expression of that spirit in its Ijelicf in a GOD of beneficence and love. Masonry, recognizing these fundamental truths, seeks to foster and promote them by creating an atmosphere of unity and love among all earth's peoples. The Report on Correspondence was prepared by Brother EDWIN
H.-VANPATTBN, who was called upon to do this work following the sudden death of M.'.W.'. Brother RALPH C . MCALLASTER. VANPATTEN in his " P r e l u d e " had the following to say:
Brother
The newly installed Grand Master, M.'.W.-. Bro. MORTON GREGORY, has asked me to write a short review of the proceedings of other Grand Juris-
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dictions, so that they mlglit appear in the printed proceedings of 192.5. i t is with tear and trembling that I have acceded to his proposal, and while I shall undertake to do the best that I can under the circumstances. I fully realize the difficulty of any one, especially on such short notice, trying to measure up to the standards set by Brother MCALLASTEK. who has been in the work for some thirteen years, and who has made for himself an enviable position at the "Round Table." where sit so many able men. The breadth of view, the keen insight, and clear style of our lamented Brother MCALLASTER, together with his kindly utterances and exceptional ability, make it very difficult for any one to follow him in the office of reviewer without subjecting liimself to unfavorable comment. Kansas is favored with three pages of his report in which he has referred to most of the important matters which came before our Grand Lodge in 1925. MORTON GREGORY, M.-.W.-. Grand Master, Tacoma. HORACE W . TYLER, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Tacoma. EDWIN H . VANPATTEN, P.-. G.•. M . - . , Correspondent. (No address given.) Next Annual, Spokane, June 15, 1926.
WESTERN AUSTRALIA —1926. Lodges, 124; members, 7,270; net gain, 400. A Quarterly Communication was held in Boulder, August 27, 1925. The Grand Lodge was opened by the Deputy Grand Master, R.'. W.'. Brother A. C. MCCALLUM. In submitting his address he first refers to the absence of their Grand Master, due to a recent illness. On behalf of the absent Grand Master the-Deputy was requested to convey his hearty good wishes and express his appreciation for the many inquiries made about his health and for the many messages received. Under the head of "Grand Lodge of Ireland" we are pleased to quote the following: Early Freemasonry in Ireland is shrouded in mystery, arid how long it existed before the Grand Lodge era no one knows, but ample evidence is forthcoming to prove its great antiquity. An old brass Square was discovered many years ago in an ancient bridge in Limerick, on which was inscribed a Masonic phrase—"I will strive to live with love and care upon the level b j ' the square," together with the date 1507. There is a tablet on the walls of the Carrickfergus Church announcing that the work was begun in 1614 by THOMAS PAPS, Freemason. There are tombstones in Antrim erected to the memory of Freemasons and dated as far back as 1626. Trinity College, Dublin, possesses two manuscripts, one dated 1688, making it clear that the Fraternity was then known to the College Students; the other, dated 1711, purports to be a Masonic ritual and is said t o be the earliest known of its kind.
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It seems the Grand Lodge has supervision over the question of lodges erecting halls, as indicated from the following under "Authority to Borrow Money:" The Board has approved of an application on the part of the Mundaring Lodge, No. 90, for permission to borrow the sum of £.500 for the erection of a new Hall. Of the sum proposed to bo borrowed, at least £200 will be raised by the issue of debentures and the balance by an advance from the bank or other mortgagee in accordance with the provisions of Rule 199, B. of C.
We think the plan is excellent and hope our own Grand Lodge in the near future, will consider this proposition. The next Quarterly Communication was held November 26, 1925. M.-. W.-. Brother C. O. L. RILEY, the Grand Master, had recovered
from his sickness and was able to preside at this Communication. From the preface to his address we quote the following: I knew from practical experience of many years, the kindness of the brethren, arid that they would make every possible excuse. 1 also knew that any business was perfectly safe in the hands of the Grand Secretary; and I knew in the third place that the kindness of the Deputy Grand Master would compel him to do everything that he possibly could to carry on the work of the Grand AJaster; and here I would like to say that I am under a very deep debt of gratitude to him. Of course you will, all of you. quite understand that It is easy to feel what you think, but it is very difflcult, for a man at all events, especially of a Northern nation—we are not Southerners—to say what we really would like to say. However, while 1 was ill, I received a very large number of communications 'from various Lodges and various members of Lodges, all of them wishing me a speedy return to health. Some of you sent me flowers, some of you sent me beautiful fruit, and there was one brother who came regularly every week, who brought me flowers to cheer me up, he brought me eggs to make me stronger, and milk, not only of hiiman kindness, but from his own cow, to help me in my weakness; and so you see there are compensations. When you get ill, that is the time you find out who are your friends, and that is the time when friendship really counts; and so I am very grateful to you all, and I am delighted to be here again with you this evening. T h e n e x t Quarterly w a s held F e b r u a r y 2 5 , 1926. U n d e r t h e h e a d of " U n d e r - A g e C a n d i d a t e s " t h e G r a n d M a s t e r submits t h e following, which we q u o t e believing it will be i n t e r e s t i n g t o our readers: Two years ago I addressed Grand Lodge on this subject, and in my remarks I expressed the hope that no under-age candidate would be nominated without the Master being first assured that a Dispensation would be granted to permit of bis initiation. I am pleased to say that my wishes in tliis respect have been almost invariably complied with, but as the number of applications has increased instead of decreased, I have been obliged to refuse a great many requests. As all candidates are required to be of "mature years and sound judgment," I do not consider it wise or in the best interests of the Craft to exercise my dispensing powers in favour of those who are mere boys, with a boyish outlcok on life. There are exceptions, of course, where yoxmg men are qualified to shoulder responsibilities earlier than others, and such I am always prepared to consider, but as a rule lads under twenty-one should be obliged to wait. While the question of age has never been considered as one of the landrnarks of the Order, it was provided for in the earlier Constitutions. In t h e Regulations of 1663 the age was set down at twenty-one, but In the English
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AUSTRALIA.
521
Constitution of 1723 the age was twenty-five, with power to the Grand -Master to grant a Dispensation to initiate at a lesser age without such lesser age being deflnod. The Irish Constitution of 1730 made the age twenty-one and gave the Grand Master the same dispensing powers as the English Grand Master. Scotland, until a decade or so ago, had the age fixed at eighteen. It is now twenty-one, but the son of a Scottish Master Mason may be initiated at eighteen hy Dispensation. At the present time in England, Ireland and Queensland it is not necessary that the under-age candidate shovild be the son of a Freemason, but it is so in South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales, New Zealand and Western Aiistialia. In Tasmania no person under the age of twenty can be admitted. In America the age of twenty-one is strictly adhered to. and no Dispensation to initiate at a lesser age is lawful. On the Continent of Europe the prevailing age is twenty-five, although in some jurisdictions it is fixed at twenty-one. I give Grand Lodge this information in order to correct the impression tliat a Dispensation has only to be applied for to be granted. At this Communication the Grand Lodge re-elected their present Grand Master, M.-,W.-, Brother C. O. L. RILEY for the twenty-second time. A remarkable record. Since the organization cf this Grand Lodge in 1900 but three other brethren have served as Grerd Msster. The Annual Communication was held in Perth, May 25, 1926. C, O. L. RILEY, M.-.W.-. Grand Master. We consider the following under the head of "Behaviour in the Presence of Strangers not Masons" worthy of reproduction, knowing full well that many of our readers will appreciate it: This is the heading of our Antient Charge, No. 6, Section 4, of the old Constitution dated 1723, and is reprinted to-day in practically all the regular Constitutions of the world. From the reports of some of the District Inspectors it would seem that the injunction of our old Brethren is just as necessary to-day as it was two centuries ago. The Charge runs as follows:— "Y'ou shall be cautious in your words and carriage, that the most penetrating stranger sliall not be able to discover or find out what is not proper to be intimated; and sometimes you shall divert a discourse, and manage it prudently for the honour of the worshipful fraternity.". According to the Inspectors' reports already referred to this advice is frequently disregarded, more especially in the country districts where Lodges have been established during the past fe'w years. The indiscretions complained of are usually associated with discussions in public places respecting candidates who have been nominated for membership and sometirres with direct reference to those who have been withdrawn or rejected on the ballot. All such discussions in such places are highly improper, not to say unmasoric, and I trust Masters of Lodges will do their utmost to stamp out this bad practice, and even, if necessary, to take proper steps to discipline the offending brethren. What takes place in the Lodge concerns the Lodge only, and it is a grave injustice to the candidate, whether his character be good or bad, to pei mit any knowledge of his unsuccessful application going forth to the outside world. It is to be regretted that our Grand Representative was not in attendance at this important Communication, which comment was likewise made in our last report. In the Report on Correspondence our 1925 Proceedings were reviewed by Brother A. C. MCCALLUM.
522
CORRESPONDENCE—WEST
VIRGINIA.
February.
In closing'this review the writer cannot refrain from suggesting to their faithful Grand Secretary, Brother J. D. STEVENSON, that it would be a valuable addition to their Proceedings if he printed on the outside back cover the name and post office address of the Grand Master and Grand Secretary and the date and place for holding their next Quarterly Communication. C. O. L. RILEY, M . - . W . - . Grand Master. J. D. STEVENSON, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Perth.
WEST VIRGINIA—1925. Lodges, 166; members, 32,976; net gain, 752. Parkersburg, November 11, i925.
CLYDE T . BUTTON, M.-.W.-.
Grand Master. Our Grand Representative, Brother PARE H . LORENTZ, was pres-
ent. The Grand Master, in the preface to his]]address, among other things, had the following to say: The year now ended has been a strenuous one—the most strenuous of my life, and yet interspersed with many pleasures, many privileges; a year full of labor for, and service to, the Fraternity we love. But whatever labor and service I have been able, humbly to perform, has been but an exempUflcation of the labor and service manifest throughout the State. I have been profoundly Impressed with the fidelity of the officers of the subordinate lodges, generally, the District Deputy Grand Masters, the Deputy Grand Lecturers, and indeed the Graft in general; with their high regard for the Fraternity, and the principles Inculcated in our teachings. They are the ones who are building the Fraternity, and to them should go the credit.
The Grand Master refers to the death of their late Grand Secretary, M-.-.W.-. JOHN M . COLLINS, and stated that after careful thought and consideration he appointed M.-.W.'. Brother GEORGE S . LAIDLBY,
and likewise retained the services of Brother COLLINS' daughter.
He had the following to say concerning chain letters: During the year, we have learned that the Graft has been annoyed by that old wide-spread superstition, in which a Brother is importuned to copy a so-called prayer, and pass it on to nine of his Brethren, with threats of dire consequences should he break the chain. We have spolcen in no uncertain terms regarding it, and hope that by the process of publicity and education. It may be eliminated. Such letters have no offlcial sanction of the Fraternity. or any Body thereof.
At the afternoon session on the second day the first order ofbusiness was paying due respect to the memory of three of their Past Grand Masters, M.-.W.-. Brothers JOHN W . ARBUCKLE, JOHN M . COLLINS and GEORGE W . ATKINSON. The writer of this report for a
great many years had the personal acquaintance of M.-.W.'. Brother
i92(i-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—WEST
VIRGINIA.
523
ATKINSON who was Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of West Virginia at the time the writer of this report was first elected Grand Secretary thirty-three years ago. Brother ATKINSON served as Grand Secretary and Governor of his state, leaving behind a most honorable record. The writer takes pleasure, therefore, in quoting the following from the tribute paid the mernory of this good man and Mason: He was twenty years Grand Secretary, and thirty-five years Chairman of Committee on Foreign Correspondence and merited the fame accorded him as one of the greatest in the Masonic Jurisdictions of the United States. We shall surely miss him and iiis faithful, guiding and instructive counsel in Grand Lodge. He never failed in trying to teach true Friendship. Morality. Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth. I knew him in his young manhood, buoyant in his active, earnest, hopeful spirit. There he stands with his long black hair. He is tall and straight as an Indian, and as safe and trustful in his friendships. Brave, handsome and true. Duty was a sublime word to him, and neither threat nor danger could drive him from honor's path. He feared neither man nor devil. His conscience was captive to Almighty GOD alone. For about forty years 1 have enjoyed close association with Brother ATKINSON : and have been for many years a member of his Committee on Foreign Correspondence. He has been a GAMALIEL to me in Masonic affairs. I t has been delightful to serve with him. He was neither a fanatic nor a hypocrite. He was an evident embodiment of the tenets of our universal Fraternity, and was perforce a true Brother, a good citizen and an honest man. He made his creed his deed in practice, Brotl:er ATKINSON'S works in the cause of Friendship. Morality and Brotherly Love will remain as a beacon monument to his memory endeared in our hearts. A man of very genial temperament. With positive belief without intolerance: zealous without hysteria: prudent and temperate without political demagogism; dignit.v without pretense; religious responsibility without interference with other men's consciences. His courtesy and invariable kindliness won and held a host of friends. Brother ATKINSON had a varied career. A boy u])on a farm. A y^outh in a printing office. A teacher in the public school. A learned and successful lawyer. A district attorney. A United States Marshal. Representative in Congress. Governor of his State. .\nd a judge upon the bench of the Federal Court.
' * * * • • • When his body was deposited in the keeping of mother earth, there were flowers, there were religious and musical offerings, and there were tears. The farewell of the living In customary tribute to the dead. 1 could not be in person at the interment of Brother ATKINSON, but in spirit 1 stood among the mourners in sorrow on the day of their grief. But now. upon the intangible and unseen catafalque around which w'e here solemnly' hold these memorial ceremonies. I lay a wreath of flowers of sentiment and affection, with admiration, esteem, personal devotion, praise and Brotherly Love, in honor and reverence of Brother ATKINSON.
The Report on Correspondence was prepared by a new hand at the business, Brother LEWIS N . TAVENNER, Past Grand Master. His "Foreword" refers to the work of bis immediate predecessor, M.\ W.-. Brother ATKINSON. AS one of the members of the Mutuals we extend to Brother TAVENNER a most cordial welcome and trust that his work
524
CORRESPONDENCE—WISCONSIN.
February.
in writing the Report on Correspondence will be a pleasure rather than one of hard labor. Our 1925 Proceedings are reviewed in this report and we are complimented in his reference to the undersigned. A. B. C. BRAY, M . ' . W . . G r a n d Master, Ronceverte. GEORGE S. LAIDLEY, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, Charleston. LEWIS N . TAVENNER, P.-. G.'. M.-. , Correspondent, Parkersburg. Next Annual, Martinsburg, November 10, .1926.
WISCONSIN —1926. Lodges, 301; members, 56,987; net gain, 2,160. Milwaukee, June 8, 1926. FRED J. MARIEN, M.'.W.-. Grand Master. Our Grand Representative, Bro. DAVID HAKLOWE, was present. The Grand Master consumes but ten lines of space in submitting his annual address. We are pleased, however, to quote the following from the second subject under the head cf "Acknowledgment": Throughout the history of more than sixty centuries. j\Iasonry has been the Warden of a priceless talisman which has brouglit not only to those who have possessed it, l)ut to those witli whom these have come into contact, a refining influence. Masons of all times have represented, and Masons of today, everywhere represent the best in civic and patriotic endeavor. Fidelity to home and loved ones, patriotism and righteous living are the result of adherence to Masonic teachings. Masonry has been the pulse beat in the onward march of civilization. The founders of Freemasonry erected, quietly and efRcientily, a magnificent physical temple to the Sublime JEHOVAH. Repealed destruction of that physical temple did not in the least thwart the growth of speculative Masonry, which has held fast to the faith. Martyrs gave their lives for that faith. In the Age of Chivalry, in the great crusades to recover the Holy Land from the Turk, Alasons storined the citadels of infidelity. Not only were the Aloslem strongholds conquered, but then were broken down the barriers of intolerance between the various nations of Europe, whose soldiers mingled in those idealistic campaigns. In more modern times. Masons, who had learned that all, from the youngest Entered Apprentice to the Master who presides in the East, the ruler and his humblest subject, the learned and the unlearned, are equal in the eyes of the law, founded this great coxmtry of ours, dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal and are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights, among which are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Learning and culture, fostered by our Craft, have pointed the way to the very heights of scientific and artistic attainment. From the beginning unto the present. Masons have been measured on the level of equality, by their squareness, and on the perpendicular of their faith. As long as these tests are rigorously observed. Masonry will serve as a leaven which shall permeate and raise the whole lump of humanity to greater heights.
CORRESPONDENCE—WISCONSIN.
525
Referring t o " M a s o n i c Trials b y C o m m i s s i o n " he h a d t h e follow-, i n g t o say: Masonic trials by commission have in my opinion resulted in great good to the Craft. Thereby has been avoided the cumbersome, unduly lengthy trial by the brethren of the subordinate Lodges who were within the length of the cable tow. Brethren of good judgment and learning, who are unswayed by sentiment, have been selected by your Grand Master to constitute commissions for the trial of cases in which charges have been duly preferred against Masons for violation of their obligations and Masonic laws. From close observation I believe that trial by commission has resuJted in the conviction and punishment of Masonic offenses which might otherwise. in a trial by a subordinate Lodge, have been unjustly condoned. H e was asked by one of their lodges whether it would be proper i o r a lodge t o hold membership in a c o m m u n i t y memorial hospital. Of course his answer was in the negative. A n o t h e r lodge w a n t e d t o know if t h e y could use a p a r t of t h e funds of their lodge t o purchase i n s t r u m e n t s for a boys' b a n d . T h i s was answered in t h e negative. If these lodges are so a m p l y provided w i t h funds why not t u r n t h e m over for t h e benefit of t h e Masonic H o m e ? Another lodge wanted to hold a C o m m u n i c a t i o n " i n t h e p a s t u r e of their Senior W a r d e n . " T h e claim was m a d e t h a t t h i s g r o u n d possesses a n a t u r a l a m p h i t h e a t e r protected from observation. Of course t h e G r a n d M a s t e r refused t h e request. If some of our w o r t h y b r e t h r e n of t h e p a s t a n d who have long since responded t o t h e final call, were t o read this portion of our review we fear t h e y would exclaim " H o w long, Oh Lord, how l o n g ? " T h e G r a n d Master is heartily in favor of presenting a bible t o each c a n d i d a t e when raised. H e says it is w o r t h considering t h e effect when t h e bible is b r o u g h t into a home where t h e great L i g h t of M a s o n r y has never lighted t h e p a t h of life. We can scarcely imagine a case where a lodge would elect one to receive t h e degrees of Symbolic M a s o n r y who does n o t possess or have in his home a copy of t h e H o l y Scriptures. We are r a t h e r inclined to believe t h a t t h e reference r a t h e r reflects upon t h e class of m e n who are being received into t h e F r a t e r n i t y . T h e C o m m i t t e e on Jurisprudence r e c o m m e n d e d t h e a d o p t i o n of a ruling b y t h e Grand Master t h a t a lodge could n o t d o n a t e a n y of its funds t o a Young Men's Christian Association for t h e purpose of building a dormitory. T h r o u g h t h e report of a special committee on t h e W a s h i n g t o n Memorial proposition it was r e c o m m e n d e d t h a t an assessment of $1.00 per capita be levied on t h e members in good s t a n d i n g as of D e c e m b e r 31, 1926. T h e G r a n d Lodge, however, t o o k a different view of t h e proposition a n d recommended an appropriation of $5,000.00 t o be paid in t w o yearly installments, instead of assessing t h e m e m b e r s . T h e R e p o r t on Correspondence was again p r e p a r e d b y B r o t h e r ALDRO J E N K S and is as usual up t o t h e s t a n d a r d . We regret, however.
526
CORRESPONDENCE—WYOMING.
February.
to find no reference to the Grand Lodge of Kansas. We anticipate our Proceedings did not reach his hands in time to be included with this report, although they were mailed on April 21, 1926. D. H. MooNEY, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, Oconto. WILLIAM W . PERRY, R.-. W . ' . Grand Secretary, Milwaukee. ALDRO JENKS, Correspondent, Dodgeville.
Next Annual, Milwaukee, June 14, 1927.
WYOMING-1925. Lodges, 45; members, 7,469; net gain, 262. Sheridan, August 19, 1925.
JOHN IRA KIRBY, M.-.W.-. Grand
Master. The address of t h e Grand Master is supported by his likeness. He first extends a welcome to all attending this Communication, after which he makes a touching reference to the death of their Past Grand Master Brother EDWARD P. STAHL, and likewise their Grand Tyler, who passed away during the year. The Grand Master made the following ruling which was approved by the Grand Lodge: A non-afflliate Mason who has secured a demic from his former lodge and fails to afflUate with some other lodge or reinstate his membership in the former lodge within one year from the date of his demit, shall be debarred from all rights and privileges. However, your lodge may receive his application for affiliation accompanied by said derjiit, after the brother has resided within the jurisdiction oT your lodge for the period of one year.
They evidently have a regulation requiring all lodges to ask for authority to construct a new building or home for their Communications as such authority was requested from the Grand Master during the year, and after giving it careful consideration he granted it. The Librarian reports that photographs of all their Past Grand Masters have been secured and are hung on the walls of the Grand Lodge Library. The negatives have been placed in a vault so that in case of accident to the pictures themselves a reproduction can be had from these negatives. Brother JOSEPH M . LOWNDES, their Grand Secretary, submitted the usual Report on Correspondence, which includes a review of our 1925 Proceedings. FRANK S . KNITTLE, M.-.W.-. Grand Master, Douglas. JOSEPH M . LOWNDES, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary and
pondent, Casper. Next Annual, Casper, August 18, 1926.
Corres-
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—WYOMING.
527
WYOMING —1926. Lodges, 4 5 ; m e m b e r s , 7,723; n e t gain, 254. We first n o t e a m o n g several Special Communications, one held in Lander, A u g u s t 2 1 , 1926, for t h e purpose of dedicating a memorial on t h e site of W y o m i n g Lodge N o . 28 a t South Pass, one of t h e oldest lodges in t h e s t a t e a n d t h e second lodge organized—Cheyenne N o . 16, now Cheyenne N o . 1, being t h e first. This old lodge was located about thirty-six miles s o u t h of L a n d e r on t h e ridge of t h e W i n d r i v e r range of m o u n t a i n s . At this Communication there were b u t two m e m bers present who belonged t o t h e lodge when i t was located in S o u t h Pass in 1869. Casper, S e p t e m b e r 8, 1926. F R A N K S . K N I T T L E , M . ' . W . ' . G r a n d Master. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r consumes only five lines as a preface t o his address a n d therefore we h a v e nothing t o q u o t e from t h a t source. He first refers to special dispensations issued during t h e year, t h e W a s h ington Memorial proposition. Masonic Service Association, a n d Tuberculosis Sanatoria. Under t h e head of " C l a n d e s t i n e L o d g e s " he h a d t h e following-to say: I beg to refer for appropriate consideration and action a circular letter attached hereto, received from WALTER L . STOCKWELL, Secretary of the Conference of Grand Masters, held at Chicago, in November, 1925, reporting the attempted invasion by the Grand Orient of France, through the institutions of new lodges and by other means, of all those Grand Jurisdictions of the United States that have refused recognition to said Grand Orient. This subject was referred to t h e C o m m i t t e e on J u r i s p r u d e n c e who reported as follows: Upon consideration of the circular letter received from WALTER L . STOCKWELL, Secretary of the Conference of Grand Masters, held at Chicago, in November, 1025, reporting the attempted invasion by the Grand Orient of France of all those grand jurisdictions in the United States that have refused recognition of said Grand Orient through the means of organizing or instituting new lodges and otherwise, we find it unnecessary for any action to be tat^en by this Grand Lodge with respect to the resolutions mentioned in said circular letter as adopted by said conference of Grand Masters, since this Grand Lodge has never recognized the said Grand Orient of France; and no reason therefore appears for the adoption of the resolution in which it is suggested that lodges heretofore recognizing said Grand Orient shall withdraw said recognition. I n t h e r e p o r t of t h e C h a i r m a n of the C o m m i t t e e on Correspondence a t this C o m m u n i c a t i o n we find a m o n g other things t h e following in . regard t o t h e meeting of t h e G r a n d Masters, a n d particularly call a t tention t o t h e closing w o r d s — t h a t the conference was "for t h e p u r pose of discussing Masonic problems of common concern," a n d t h a t " t h e meeting is n o t in a n y sense t o be a General G r a n d B o d y : " The Grand Master of Illinois issued a call for a conference of Grand Masters to be held at Chicago on November 17, 1925, the day before the meeting of the
528
CORRESPONDENCE—WYOMING.
February.
Masonic Service Association. Many attended this session and a resolution was unanimously adopted endorsing the idea of an annual conference of Grand Masters to which all the Grand Jurisdictions of the United States are to be invited. The meeting is not in any sense to be a General Grand Body, but only a conference for the purpose of discussing Masonic problems of common concern. In view of the foregoing, the writer of this report ventures to ask the promoters of this conference of Grand Masters what is meant by the statement that this meeting was in no sense to be considered a General Grand Body, in view of the fact t h a t the Secretary of that meeting issues an official circular over his signature as Secretary of the meeting of Grand Masters, cautioning certain Grand Lodges against the action of the Grand Orient of France; in other words, under what instructions or authority did our good Brother STOCKWELL issue such a proclamation. A splendid address was dehvered by Brother EDWARD D . EDWARDS and as a matter of interest to our readers we are pleased to quote the following portion: Generations have come and gone, dynasties have been founded and have crumbled to ruin, but Masonry, resting securely upon the foundation rock of morality and brotherly love, defies the storms of ignorance, bigotry, and prejudice, and stands forth as a fortress and haven of refuge for the sons of men. But the fact that Masonry is of ancient origin is not the primal cause of its greatness. To claim a place for Masonry solely for its having lived in the ages past would be as sheer folly as to exalt a fool simply because he came of noble ancestry. The reason that Masonry has survived the centuries is because its holy principles have gone down the corridors of time, giving hope and kindling love in the aching hearts of men. Just as long as Masonry helps the weak, comforts the widow, and dries the tear upon the cheek of the orphan, will the light of eternal youth glitter upon its majestic brow. The Masonic fraternity comprises men in all walks of life, in all conditions and stations of being. I t has no master head but GOD, and no wordly allegiance but country. I t is free from all orthodox entanglements, and within its ranks there is no bigotry or creed. It excludes no man of character and holds no brief against those whom it does not invite into its councils. Its institutions are based upon the cardinal virtues and its affairs are conducted upon a high constitutional plan. I t believes every man to be innocent until he is proven guilty, and holds its own members more strictly accountaljlo than those who do not wear its insignia. The Fatherhood of GOD, the Brotherhood of man. the moral law, and the hope of a life everlasting. Out of this simple faith grows the philosophy which Freemasonry teaches in signs and symbols, in pictures and parables. Stated freely, stated sympathetically, it is that behind the ijageant of nature, in it and over it, there is a Supreme Mind which initiates, impels, and con. trols all. That behind the life of man and its pathetic story in history, in it and over it, there is a righteous will, the intelligent conscience of the Most High. In Bhort, that the first and last thing in the universe is mind; that the highest and deepest thing is conscience and that the final reality is the absoluteness of love. Higher than t h a t faith cannot fly, deeper than t h a t thought cannot go. When the spirit of this order has its sway upon earth, as at last it certainly will, society will be a vast league of sympathy and justice, business a system of human beneficence; the home will be more holy, the laughter of childhood more joyous, and the temple of prayer mortised in simple faith.
1926-27.
CORRESPONDENCE—WYOMING.
529
Evil, injustice, bigotry, greed, and every vile and slimy thing that defiles liumanity will skulk into the darkness, unable to endure the light of a juster, wiser more merciful order. Industry will be upright, education prophetic, and religion not a shadow, but a real presence, when man has become acquainted with man and has learned to worship GOD by serving Us fellows. When Freemasonry is victorious every tyranny will fall, every Bastile crumble, and man will be not only unfettered in mind and heart, but free of heart to walk erect in the light and dignity of truth. Masonry is permanent because it is founded upon everlasting fundamentals, and it is the province of Masonry and the duty of Masons to grapple with eternal principles. It would seem from the following resolution, which was ado pted by the Grand Lodge, that our Wyoming brethren are becoming tire d of the practice of the Washington Memorial authorities in raising t h e price of the construction of this edifice: We. your Committee on Finance, beg to report that the Grand Jurisdiction of Wyoming has paid to the George Washington Masonic National Memorial Association the sum of 56,276.52 and has twice paid the entire estimate that would be required of this Grand Jurisdiction to fulfill Wyoming's quota. Each yearly meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Memorial Association the estimates are raised and it would seem that the end is not in sight. We do not recommend the appropriation of any more funds until it is evident that the Memorial will be completed at a cost of S4,000,000.00 and that this quota will be met by all Grand Jurisdictions of the United States. For further information on this subject we refer our Wyoming readers to our review of the Proceedings of New York in this volume. The Keport on Correspondence was prepared by the Grand Secretary, Brother JOSEPH M . LOWNDES, and we are grateful for a review of our 1926 Proceedings. 0 . O. NATWICK, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Wheatland. JOSEPH M . LOWNDES, R.-. W . \ Grand Secretary and Correspondent, Casper. Next Annual, Thermopolis, August 24, 1927.
530
CORRESPONDENCE—APPENDIX.
February,
MEMBERSHIP GRAND LODGES. Statistical table showing membership of Grand Lodges. Compiled by R.'.W.-. ALBETIT K WILSON, for the Kansas Committee on Correspondence. February. 1927. Grand Lodge.
Florida Georgia Idaho
Ohio
Texas Utah
Total U. S
No. of Lodges.
Year.
582 1925 1926 35 1925 560 1926 555 1925 159 1926 120 1925 22 1925 34 1926 253 1925 680 1925 88 1926 993 1926 559 1926 558 1926 449 1925 614 1926 269 1926 206 1925 118 1925 312 1926 489 1926 304 1926 388 1925 662 1925 133 1926 291 1926 23 1926 226 1926 56 1926 967 1926 448 1926 124 1925 605 • 1926 437 1925 164 1925 559 1926 40 1926 290 1926 174 1926 473 1925 978 1926 25 1926 103 1926 352 1925 269 1925 166 1926 301 1926 45 16.258 1
Membership. 53,990 5,901 35,550 122.412 31,159 44,181 5,912 22,700 27,398 69,821 10,008 285,965 126,215 89,928 82,165 72,072 . 34,905 43,485 32,055 122,324 146,255 59,586 35,500 111,969 19,975 40,937 2,721 86,230 6,555 320,985 41,334 15,254 193,461 69,673 28,038 204,111 18,059 29,503 19,632 49,264 132,774 4,818 18,942 47,331 44,780 32,976 56,987 7,723 3.163.519
Net Gain. 1,621 213 6,895 908 1,275 52 587 1,527 508 6,369 2,113 4,221 1,991 408 504 758 2,205 2,938 1,494 800 2,072 88 650 34 3,403 134 9,715 725 184 5,760 3,011 1,213 4,271 436 63 336 1,606 3,894 84 260 1,770 1,973 752 2,160 516 82.497
Net Loss.
402
446
531
1,379
531
CORRESPONDENCE—APPENDIX
1926-27.
OTHER GRAND LODGES RECOGNIZED BY THE GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS. Grand
Lodge.
Chile Cuba,...;
Mexico ( Y o r k G . - . L . - . )
No. of Lodges. 145 117 512 73 10 5 171 7 4,105 15 3 700 100 15 44 437 270 80 8 15 99 15 52 82 317 6 180 875 112 41 324 124
Year.
1926 1926 1926 1926 1926 1925 1925 1925 • 1925 1926 1926 1925 1926 1926 1925 1925 1925 1926 1926 1924 1926 1926 1924 1926 1924 1926 1926 1926 1926 1926 1925 1926
Membership Last Report. 12,672 13,965 107,676 4,898 816 285 13,272 385 330,000 650 178 50,000 11,653 907 5,963 59,071 23,887 9,744 400 1,900 6.837 1,177 4,800 14,152 20.000 548 13,091 260,000 12,458 3.529 38,392 7.270
Net Gain.
Net Loss.
322 572 2,337 898 216 10 997 90
10,000 178 253
224 3,802 1,097
31
218;
49 8 449
366 122 731 183 3,809 400
Total U. S. T o t a l s
9.059 16,258
1,030,576 3,163,519
27,023 82,497
1,379
Grand Total
25.317
4.194.095
109,520
1,71&
339
532
CORRESPONDENCE—APPENDIX.
February,
CONSOLIDATED STATISTICAL APPENDIX. Prepred by ALBERT K . WILSON, Grand Secretary and Grand Recorder,
Kansas Correspondent. February, 1927. Grand Lodge.
-Ohio
"Utah
Totals General General Grand
Grand Grar.d
Chapter
Grand Chapter.
5.3.990 .5,001 .35,.550 122,412 31,159 44.181 5.912 22,700 27,398 69,821 10,008 285,965 126,215 89,928 82,165 72,072 34,905 • 43,485 32,055 122,324
15,384 1,305 8,047 24,744 8,064 16„531 2,068 6,558 8,448 18,516 2,097 88,997 33,361 23,800 21,755 20,546 9,350 17.731 9,716 41,518
146,255 59,586 35,500 111,969 19,975 40,937 2,721 86,230 6,555 320,985 41,334 15,254 193,461 69,673 28,038 204,111 18,059 29,503 19.632 49,264 132.774 4,818 18.942 47,331 44,780 32,976 56,987 7.723
46,799 16,839 7.683 35,776 4,857 8,322 655 5,895 19,931 2,074 71.576 8.279 4,124 78.825 14.108 7,209 59,778 8,817 0,459 6.370 11,237 43,289 1,241 5.987 17.439 9.397 12.008 24.427 2.143
3,103.519
920.SOO
Grand Council. 5,049 552 1,548 9,390 2,454 10,758 1,699 1,827 6,198 24,280 19,924 7,314 0,688 4,909 1,964 8.617 4,965 15,649 15,758 3,117 4,152 12,483 919 3,383 136 3,729 4,075 12.872 1,943 801 44.501 4,990 2,098 15.065 5,853 4,360 1,414 2,780 38,231
Grand Comd'y. 8,638 802
2,777 13,231 4,771 0,341 3,445 5,021 8,521 1,073 35,560 13,275 12,502 14,590 10,142 3,211 9,516 4,692 26,529 15,629 7,774 4,247 16,938 2,671 4,643 302
3,501 7,364 1,396 37,184 5,110 2,343 33.451 7,426 3,938 41,573 4.210 3.749 5.074 18,509 813
1.891 3,018 8,047 330.129
3,719 7,324 4,735 6,924 10,008 1,541 448,059
1,502'
Council
1.040
Encampment Sub-
1,611
Grand Totals
3.163,519 1,030,576
922.302 139,823
331,175 1.710
449,670 16,214
4.194,095
1.062.125
332,885
465,884
533
CORRESPONDENCE—APPENDIX.
1926-27.
FOREIGN GRAND BODIES. Grand Lodge.
Chile
. .
12,672 13.965 107,676 4,898 816 285 13,272 385 330,000 . 650 178 50,000 11,653
M e x i r o (Yorlc G r a n d Lodge)....
907 5,963 59,071 23,887 9,744 400 1,900 6.S37 1,177 4,800 14,152 20,000 548 13,091 260,000 12,458 3,529 38.392 7,270
Grand Chapter. 2,840 2,630' 25,650
70,000
Grand Council.
Grand Comd'y.
327
12,106
727
4,108
15,000 1,632 656 1,596 3,414 3,389 2,651
3,417 602
*2,557 3,775 670
Totals
1,030,576 3,163,519
139,823 922,302
1,710 331,175
16.214 449.670
Grand Totals
4,194,095
1.062,125
332.885
465,884
*No record of membership kept.
INDEX TO VOLUME XX. 1925-1927.
PAGE
Absence of Grand Master from State Acacia Lodge No. 9, Lawrence, Copy of Original Charter 630, Addresses— By ^V.: Robert P. McCoUoch for District Meetings 133, 427, By W.'. Francis M. Pearl, at Unveiling of Smith-Vandcrslice Monument Advancement in Another Lodge—Requirements, Decision No. 46 Annulled Allen Lodge No. 335—(Defunct) Property of Lodge Return of unexpended balance of funds 32, Allen Lodge No. 335—(New) Dispensation Issued Charter Granted Constituted Allowance— For Commissioners of Trials, By-Law No. 176 For Schools of Instruction and District Meetings, By-Law No. 52 313, 455, 629, Alphabetical List of Lodges 221, .511, Amendments to By-Laws Printed Annual Addresses of Grand Masters— M.-.W.-. Elmer F. Strain M.-.W.-. Charles A. Loucks M.-.W.-. John W. Neilson Annual Reports, Grand Secretary's Report coneerning 68, 338, Antlciuity Lodge No. 280— Dispensation Issued 594, Charter Granted Appeal—Action by Grand Lodge, By-Law No. 150 Amended 744, Appeals— Americus Lodge No. 109 165, 311, Anthony Lodge No. 200 BrookviUe Lodge No. 209 Corner Stone Lodge No. 219 165; .311, Henri Lodge No. 190 Hesperian Lodge No. I l l Long Island Lodge No. 231 449, Mankato Lodge No. 87 Marysville Lodge No. 91 Mount Vernon Lodge No. 145 Mulvane Lodge No. 201 Newton Lodge No. 142 Osage Valley Lodge No. 24
314 740 756 683 769 52 159 44 158 321 456 769 829 333 25 299 592 636 616 741 774 452 165 450 452 311 775 602 774 775 451 449 775 449
ii
INDEX
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XX. PAGE
Paola Lodge No. 37 Patmos Lodge No. 97 Phillipsburg Lodge No. 184 164, Reno Lodge No. 140 Robinson Lodge No. 159 Rosedale Lodge No. 333 450, Tyrian Lodge No. 246 Wichita Lodge No. 99 Appointive Grand Offlcers— Installed 172, Portraits 242, Arthur, Ross M., Suspended from Office Assistant to Grand .Secretary, Salary Increase .' Association of Past Grand Masters, proceedings at annual meeting 246, Attendance at Annual Communications, recapitulation of 23, Ballot, Illegal Balloting, Collective Beaumont Lodge No. 439— Constituted Bendena Lodge No. 440— Dispensation Issued Charter Granted .Constituted Binding Volume XX, Proceedings Biographical Sketches— M.-.W.-. Elmer F. Strain M.-.W.-. Charles A. Loucks M.-.W.-. John W. Neilson Blank Forms and Record Books Bond, Grand Treasurer, Premium increased Bonding Lodge Treasurers and Secretaries Bonds Purchased Book of Instructions to District Deputy Grand Masters.... Books of Annual Returns Brainerd Lodge No. 280. Whitewater— Grand Master's Address, 1926 Charter Arrested Charter Revoked Buffalo Lodge No. 379— Grand Secretary's Address, 1925 Charter Arrested Secretary Suspended from Office Report of Committee on .Turisprudence Burial Service— Jurisdiction, Decision of Grand Master Short Form of Service Bushong, Petition for Charter, refused By-Laws, Amendments Printed By-Laws, Revision of Constitution and By-Laws, Adopted— 34 (a). Commissioners of Trials 174. Dues and Dimits 175. Communications Between Lodges 176. Allowances for Commissioners of Trials
165 165 311, 452 165 449 602, 775 775 165, 450 463, 532, 307, 57,
781 852 452 163
537, 858 297, 590
......601, 775 36, 173, 438 44 44 157 321 617, 779
56, 122, : 633, 630, 719, 52,
243 533 853 163 65 777 333 735 332 314 603 776 68 306 307 452
38 37, 121, 166 160 333 625, 718, 769 455 162 455 456
INDEX
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XX. PAGE
By-Laws, 37. 48. 52.
Amended— Grand Representatives Salaries ..52. 57, Allowances for Schools of Instruction and District Meetings 313, 455. 029, 58. District Deputies 95. Grand Lodge Dues 339. 100. Petitions for Advancement—Contents and Disposition 103,. Petitions—Committee of Investigation 125. Lodge Dues—Suspension 57, 163, 637, 130 to 151 inclusive. Rules of Procedure in Masonic Trials, Appeals and Punishments (1926) !430-443, 137. Cliargcs and Specifications—Accuser 743, 139. Charges and Specifications^—Entertainment 743, 140. Charges and Specifications—Summons 743. 144. Place for Trial—Who May be Present—Testimony Reduced to Writing—Pledge of Witnesses 743, 140. Record of Proceedings—Punishments—Mandate—Riglit of Appeal—Time for Sentence "43, 149. Proceedings for Appeal 743, 150. Appeal—Action by Grand Lodge 744, 109. Forms and Record Books •. 56, 122, 170. Transfer of Membership 33, 172. Fees for Certificates 50, By-Laws, proposed Amendment— 34 (a). Commissioners of Trials 605, 95. Grand Lodge Dues 35, 115. Dimission—Certificate 333, 453, 625, 170. Transfer of Membership 333, 453, 625, By-Laws, Repealed— 130 to 168 inclusive (1913 Edition). Rules of Procedure in Masonic Trials, Appeals and Punishments Card Form of Official Receipt 57, 162, 332, Certificate for Transfer—Dimits, Proposed change of Constitution and By-Laws 333, 453, 625, Charges preferred by other than member of Lodge, Decision of Grand Master 608, Charges and Specifications—Accuser, By-Law No. 137 Amended 743, Charges and Specifications—Entertainment, By-Law No. 139 Amended 743. Charges and Spocifications—Summons, By-Law No. 140 Amended 743, Charity, Amount expended for Charter Arrested, Buffalo Lodge No. 379 300. Charter Burned. Copy for Freeport Lodge No. 389 Charter Destroyed, Lenora Lodge No. 181 594, Charter Lost, Copy for Rosedale Lodge No. 333 Charter Refused. Lodge at Bushong Charter Revolted, Brainerd Lodge No. 280 Chartered Lodges and Lodges U. D., Report of Committee on 152, 443. Charters. Correct Dates of Issuance 337, Charters Filed in Archives of Grand Lodge 46, 325, Charters Granted— Allen Lodge No. 335, Allen Antiquity Lodge No. 280, Chapman Bendena Lodge No. 440, Bendena : Grinnell Lodge No. 448, Grinneil Hutchinson Lodge No. 445, Hutchinson
454 163 769 456 454 769 768 770 455 771 771 771 772 772 773 774 163 162 163 717 162 770 770 456 448 770 770 771 771 771 302 452 45 617 45 160 776 737 448 617 158 741 157 741 160
r iv
INDEX
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XX. PAGE
Johnson Lodge No. 441, .Jolinson Kanorado Lodge No. 443, Kanorado Rexford Lodge No. 442. Rexford Satanta Lodge No, 446, Satanta Stanley Lodge No. 444. Stanley Charters Lost— Freeport Lodge No. 389 Rosedale Lodge No. 333 Charters of Lawrence Lodge No. 6 and Acacia Lodge No. 9 Charters Restored 45. Commissioners of Trials— Appointed 464, Allowance for, By-Law No. 176 Appropriation for Expenses By-Law No. 34 (a), Adopted By-Law No. 34 (a), proposed Amendment Report of. Committee, Duty of. Subject to Discipline, Decision of Grand Master Committee on Revision, 1898, Notes under head of "Proceedings" " T i m e " annulled Committee on Correspondence, Reviews See Committees, Special, Appointed 173, 300, Committees, Standing— Appointed 173, Serving 24, Communications between Lodges, By-Law No. 175 Complete Summary of Membership 200, Conferring Degrees in Less than the Required Time..50, 162,307, 314, Constitution and By-Laws, Revision of 625, Constitution, proposed Amendment— Amendments proposed governing courtesy requests for degrees 456. 600. Sec. 2. Art. V. Lodges U. D.—Petition 333. 453, Sec. 5. Art. VI. Membership and Dimission 333. 453, Contingent Fund, Grand Master, increasing Ooplin, George M., installed Grand Senior Steward Corner-stone, Decision of Grand Master , Corner-stones Laid— At Atwood, Masonic Temple At Baldwin, Mulvane Science Hall, Baker University At Brookville, High School At Caney, Christian Chiu-ch At Conway Springs, Presbyterian Church At Cottonwood Falls, Masonic Temple At Fort Scott, Episcopal Church At Fulton. First Baptist Church At Hepler, High School. At Hiawatha, Court House At Hutchinson, Grace Hospital At Hutchinson, Masonic Temple '. At Johnson, Court House At Kansas City, Court House At Kansas City, Masonic Temple At Kansas City, Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Building At Lebanon, Community Hall At Leoti, High School At McCune, School Building At McPherson, First Congregational Church
1.58 169 159 160 159 31 31 630. 740 324, 617 605, 782 450 609, 778 455 605, 717 742 312, 457 and 769 Appendix 464, 782 464, 298, 313, 490, 331, 718.
782 591 455 808 625 769
623. 625, 625, 610,
768 770 770 779 27 39 689 98 695 373 372 374 382 369 103 375 371 701 378 696 101 97 95 691 102 99
INDEX
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XX.
v PAGE
At Melvern, School Building 100 At Montezuma, High School 381 At Ness City, High School 698 At Norcatur, High School , 694 At Oberlin, Court House 693 At Parsons. High School 108 At Pittsburg, Protestant Hospital 370 At St. Francis, Court House 96 At Towanda, Methodist Church 697 At Troy, Masonic Temple 376 At Valley Center, Masonic Temple 380 At Wellington, Christian Churcli 104 At White Church, School Building 107At Wichita, Masonic Temple 109 Correspondence Committee, Special Report on Grand Lodge of New Hampshire 152 Correspondence Committee, Special Report on United Grand Lodge of Vera Cruz 737 Correspondence, Report of Committee on 152, 443, 736 Correspondence Reviews See Appendix Council of Administration, report of 390, 613 Council of Administration, Special Appropriations 608, 778 Counties, List of Lodges by 224, 514, 832 Courtesies Exchanged— Address of Grand Master, 1925 • 27 Special Committee Appointed 123 Report of Special Committee 438 Report of Committee on Jurisprudence 456, 768 Address of Grand Master, 1927 , 600 Report of Grand Secretary, 1927 623 Credentials, Report of Committee on 6, 279, 571 Dancing in Lodge Buildings Davis, Albert R., Deputy Grand Master of Nebraslia, Reception of Davis, Harvey O., Appointed Lecturer Deaths, list of 255, Decision No. 46. Advancement in Another Lodge—Reciuirements, nulled Decision No. 106. Dues and Dimits, Repeal of Decisions of Grand Masters— M.-.W.-. Elmer F. Strain M.-.W.-. Charles A. Loucks M.-.W.-. John W. Neilson Dedication of Masonic Halls— At Cottonwood Falls At Fort Scott .. At Lawrence At McDonald Defunct Lodges, list of 232, Defunct Lodges, Suspension of Members 51, 162, Degrees Conferred by Request— Recommendation of Grand Master Special Committee Appointed Report of Special Committee Report of Committee on Jurisprudence Address of Grand Master, 1927 Report of Grand Secretary. 1927 Degrees Conferred in Less than the Required Time..50, 162, 307, 314,
34. 162 756 300, 595 545, 865 An76935, 162 38, 163 312, 457 608, 770 377 383 368 105 522, 840 331, 452 27 123 438 456, 768 600 623 331, 625
INDEX
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XX. PAGE
De Soto Lodge No. 40, Office of Master Declared Vacant 307, 452 Dickey, Guy D., Grand Junior Steward, death of 409 Diniits, Certificate for Transfer, Proposed change of Constitution and By-Laws 333, 453, 625, 770 Discipline— Brainerd Lodge No. 280 603 Buffalo Lodge No. 379 306 Council Grove Lodge No. 36 307 De Soto Lodge No. 40 307 Halcyon Lodge No. 120 307 Halstead Lodge No. 46 307 Hebron Lodge No. 314 307 Holyrood Lodge No. 343 307 Horace Lodge No. 352 32 Klncaid Lodge No. 338 306 Long Island Lodge No. 231 602, 776 Mulvane Lodge No. 201 602 Muscotah Lodge No. 110 307 Osage Valley Lodge No. 24 307 Kosedale Lodge No. 333 '....002, 776 Scammon Lodge No. 351 306 Severance Lodge No. 313 308 Shawnee Lodge No. 54 603 Vermillion Lodge No. 320 603 "Washington Lodge No. 5 603 Xenia Lodge No. 47 308 Dispensations Issued for New Lodges— Allen Lodge, at Allen ". 44 Antiquity Lodge, at Chapman 594, 616 Bendena Lodge, at Bendena 44 GrinncU Lodge, at Grinnell 594, 616 Hutchinson Lodge, at Hutchinson 45 Johnson Lodge, at Johnson 44 Kanorado Lodge, at Kanorado 44 Kingsdown Lodge, at Kingsdown 302, 324 Rexford Lodge, at Roxford 44 Satanta Lodge, at Satanta 45 Stanley Lodge, at Stanley 45 Dispensations. Special, issued -. .28, 302. 597 District Deputy Grand Masters— Appointed 328, 606, 621 Book of Instructions furnished 630, 719, 735 By-Law No. 58, District Deputies. Amended 456 Grand Master's Address, concerning 29, 303, 605 List of, and Districts 175, 466, 784 Present at Annual Communication..... 7, 280, 572 Report of Special Committee, concerning 166, 735 Districts, Masonic— Changes in 48, 328, 621 List of 177, 468, 786 District Meetings— Allowances for Schools of Instruction and District Meetings, By-Law No. 52 : 313. 455, 629, 769 Attendance 303, 607 Date and Place of Meetings 29 Grand Master's Address, concerning 29, 303, 605 Referred to Special Committee 121 Report of Special Committee 166 Special Addresses for 133, 427, 756
L
INDEX
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XX. PAGE
Donations to Masonic Home— By Grand Lodge. SIO.OOO By Grand Lodge. U. S. Fourth Liberty Loan Bonds. S52,000...;..6O9, By Bro. Jacob I. Snyder, U. S. Government Bond, $,500..'. 633. 719. Dues and Dimits— By-Law No. 174 adopted Decision No. 106 repealed 35, Dues, Grand Lodge— Method of Paying 334, Proposed Amendment to By-Law No. 95 35, 162, 339, 446, Communication to Lodges regarding By-Law No. 95 Dunlap. Charles G.— Appointed Grand Orator Address as Grand Orator Duty of Committee. Decision of Grand Master 312.
161 778 736 162 162 453 454 631 300 414 457
Election of Grand Officers 168, 457, 777 Election of Officers In Lodges— Illegal 67, 156, 302, 336, 445, 594 Date not Shown on Annual Report 67,.336, 635, 740 Elective Grand Officers from Organization 218, 508, 826 Enterprise Lodge No. 437— Constituted 43 Exemplification of Work at Grand Lodge 147. 436, 755 Exhibit " T " , Revision of 632, 719. 736 Exhibit " T " , Table showing receipts and disbursements 82, 366, 646 Expelled, list of 201, 491, 809 Expenses and Revenue, estimated 66, 341, 638 Expenses, Commissioners of Trials, Appropriation for 609, 778 Expense of Trials, Decision of Grand Master 312, 457 Extraneous Organizations 604 •*i
Farrelly. Hugh P.— Death of 593. Memorial Page '. Fees for Certificates, By-Law No. 172 Amended 50. Fees for Degrees, Decision of Grand Master Filing Gases purchased Finance and Property, report of Committee on 169, 458, Financial Tables, Grand Secretary's Report 70, 342, Financing Temples 599, 717, Fitch, Thomas G.. Secretary Masonic Home Board, report of 113. 398. Florida Relief 604. Forms and Record Books, Blank .-. 56, 122, Fowler, Charles N.— Selected and Installed Grand Junior Warden Report as Grand Master during aljsencc of Grand Master and Deputy Grand Master Freeport Lodge No. 389— Hall Burned : Charter Burned... Copy of Charter Funds, Lodge, Manner in which kept and paid out 334, 453, Funds, Sohcltation of. Funds, Survey of Records and Funeral Service— Jurisdiction, Decision of Grand Master Short Form of Service, 37, 121,
722 861 163 39 622 778 639 735 707 778 163 27 317 49 31 45 633 302 600 38 166
INDEX
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XX. PAGE
Funeral Services for M.-.W.'. Edward W. Wellington Furniture—• Filing Cases Purchased Historical Filing Case Purchased Museum Cases Purchased
110 622 49 622
Grand Lodge Building— Exterior and Interior Views Throughout Proc. 1927 Decorations in 329 Painting Basement 622 Grand I^odgo Dues— Method of Paying 334, 453 Proposed Amendment to By-I^aw No. 95 35. 162, 339, 446. 454 Communication to Lodges regarding By-Law No. 95 631 Grand Lodge, History of 335, 408, 464, 595. 632. 717, 719. 734. 782 Grand Lodge of New Hampshire— Grand Master's Address, 1925 34 Special Report. Correspondence Committee 152 Grand Lodges and Grand Secretaries, list of 236. 526. 844 Grand Master absent from State 314 Grand Master's Address. 192.5— Allen Lodge No. 335 32 Associate Officers ^ 39 Balloting 36 Courtesies Exchanged 27 Decision No. 106 35 Decisions 38 District Meetings 29 Domestic Relations,—New Lodges: Lost Charters 30 Foreign Relations 34 Funeral Service 37 Grand Lodge Dues 35 Grand Orator 30 Grand Representatives 28 Lecturers 30 Lodge Trials 35 Masonic Home 27 Membersliip. Growth 31 Miscellaneous 38 Necrology 26 Personal 39 Physical Qualifications 37 Social Affairs 34 Special Committee 36 Special Communications 28 Special Dispensations 28 Standards 31 Transfer of Membership 33 Grand Master's Address, 1926— Absence from the Grand Jurisdiction :... 314 Application for Setting Aside Judgment 311 Charity 302 • Conclusion 315 Condition of Masonry.. 314 Corner-stones and Dedications 302 Decisions 312 Discipline 306
INDEX
TO VOLUME
XX.
ix PAGE
District Deputy Grand Masters District Meetings Elections at other ttian right Time Foreign Relations Grand Orator Grand Representatives Invitations Lecturers Lodge Entertainments Lodge Trials Lodges Instituted Lodges Under Dispensation Masonic Home Necrology Questions of Jurisdiction Recommendations Solicitation of Funds Special Address Special Committee Special Dispensations Standards Grand Master's Address, 1927— Announcements •. .Appropriations by Council of Administration Charter Destroyed Commissioners of Trials Conclusion Condition of the Craft Corner-stones and Dedications Courtesies Exchanged Decisions Discipline ^. District Deputy Grand Masters District Meetings Elections Erroneously Held Extraneous Organizations Financing Temples Florida Relief Foreign Relations Grand Lodge History Grand Lodge Relief Grand Orator Grand Representatives near other Grand Lodges Grand Representatives near our Grand Lodge Illegal Ballot Illegal Suspensions Installation Invitations and Visits Jurisdiction Lecturers Lodge Constituted Lodges Under Dispensation Necrology Recommendations Social Activities Special Dispensations Survey of Records and Funds Unveiling Monument Grand Master's Contingent Fund, Increasing
;
:
303 303 302 301 300 301 314 300 304 311 302 302 304 300 305 313 302 301 300 302 301 596 608 594 605 611 610 '... 597 600 608 602 605 607 594 604 599 604 596 595 605 595 596 596 601 601 594 598 602 595 594 594 593 609 602 597 600 598 610, 779
X
INDEX
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XX. PAGE
Grand OfHcers— Elected 168, 457, Elective, since organization 218, 508, Installed 172, 463, Postofflce Addresses of. 2, 276, Present at Annual Communication 6, 279, Grand Officers' Reports, report of Committee on .120, 406, Grand Orator Appointed .• 30. 300. Grand Representatives— Appointed and Commissioned .". 48. 328. 596. By-Law No. 37 Amended 313. Introduced and Welcomed 5. 279. Of Kansas near other Grand Lodges 239. 529. Of other Grand Lodges near Kansas 241. 531. Present at Annual Communication 7. 281. Grand Secretary's Certificates Issued 65. 337. Grand Secretary's Report. 1925— Additional Historical Filing Case Allen Lodge U. D..... Annual Election Annual Reports Assistant to Grand Secretary Binding Proceedings .Blanlts and Record Boolcs Bond of Grand Treasurer Boolcs of Annual Returns Card Form of Official Receipts •. Change in Districts Charters Issued Conferring Degrees in Less than the Required Time Copies of Charters to Rosedale Lodge No. 333 and Freeport Lodge No. 389 ,. : Estimated Revenue and Expenses for the Ensuing Year Exhibit " T " Fees for Certificates Financial Tables Grand Representatives near other Grand Lodges , Grand Representatives near our Grand Lodge Grand Secretary's Certificates Halls Burned; Historical Registry and Abstract History of Lodges Illegal Suspension of Members for Non-Payment of Dues James M. McFarland Library List of Regular Lodges , Lodges Under Dispensation Masonic Districts , Members of Defunct Lodges Official Circulars Official Stenographer Oil Painting of Richard R. Rees Paradise Lodge No. 290. Plalnvllle Proceedings 1924 Reduced Railroad Fare Restoration of Charters Special Communications, Minutes of Summary for 1924 Transcript of Trials Warrant Account ,..,......,....,..,....,
777 826 781 568 571 716 595 621 454 571 847 850 573 635 49 52 67 67 57 43 56 65 52 57 48 43 50 45 66 82 50 70 48 48 65 40 43 49 57 59 51 44 48 51 65 52 62 58 43 50 45 95 69 58 84
INDEX
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XX.
xi PAGE
Grand Secretary's Report, 1926^—• Additional Museum Cases 329 Amendments to Laws ' 333 Annual Reports 338 Books of Annual Returns 332 Card Form of Official Receipt 332 Certificates for Transfer—Dimits 333 Change in District Deputy Grand Masters 328 Charters Issued 321 Conferring Degrees in Less than the Required Time 331 Dates of the Issuance of Charters 337 Decorations in Grand Lodge Building 329 Edward W. Osgood 332 Estimated Revenue and Expenses 341 Financial Tables 342 Grand Representatives near other Grand Lodges 328 Grand Representatives near our Grand Lodge 328 Grand Secretary's Certificate '. 337 Historical Registry and Abstract 321 History of Grand Lodge 335 History of Lodges 330 Illegal Suspensions 335 Indexing Proceedings 329 List of Regular Lodges 331 Lodge Funds 334 Lodge Under Dispensation 324 Masonic Districts 328 Members of Defunct Lodges 331 Method of Paying Grand Lodge Dues 334 Official Circulars : 337 Proceedings 1925 321 Purchase of Bonds 333 Questionable Dates of Holding Annual Elections ° 336 Reduced Railroad Fare 331 Restoration of Charters 324 Special Communications, Minutes of 368 Steel Transfer Cases 329 Summary for 1925 340 Transcript of Trials 332 Grand Secretary's Report, 1927— AdditionalMuseum Cases 622 Annual Reports 636 Binding Volume X X 617 Bonding Lodge Treasurers and Secretaries 633 Book of Instructions to District Deputy Grand Masters 630 Certificates for Transfer—Dimits 625 Change in District Deputy Grand Masters 621 Charters Issued 616 Charters of Lawrence Lodge No. 6 and Acacia Lodge No. 9 of Lawrence.. 630 Complete List of Charters Filed 617 Conferring Degrees in Less than the Lawful Time 624 Constitution and By-Laws 625 Courtesies Exchanged 623 Disregard of Grand Lodge Laws Relative to Manner in which the Funds of Lodges are Kept and Paid Out 633 Donation to the Masonic Home 633 Estimated Revenue and Expenses • 638 Financial Tables '. 639
xii
INDEX
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XX.
' PAGE
Grand Representatives near other Grand Lodges Grand Representatives near our Grand Lodge Grand Secretary's Certificates Hall Burned Historical Registry and Abstract History of Grand Lodge History of Lodges Illegal Elections Indexing Proceedings Information Concerning the Time of Making Order for Second Notice List of Regular Lodges Lodges Under Dispensation Masonic Districts No Date for Holding Stated Communications No Date of Election Given Official Circulars Painting Basement of Grand Lodge Building Payment of Mileage by the Grand Secretary Portraits of Past Grand Masters Proceedings 1926 Reduced Railroad Fare Report of Illegal Suspensions., Restoration of Charters , Revision of Exhibit " T " Section 52, By-Laws, Incomplete Special Communications, Minutes of Steel Filing Cases Summary for 1926 Time for Paymentof Grand Lodge Dues Transcript of Trials! Grand Senior Warden's Report, 1920—(As Grand Master) Courtesies Extended Special Dispensations Issued and Proper Returns Made Special Dispensations Refused Grand Treasurer's Bond Grand Treasm-er's Report 41, 319, Great Bend Lodge No. 15, Lodge Trial, Remanded 311, Grinnell Lodge No. 448— Dispensation Issued 594, Charter Granted
621 621 635 617 616 632 622 634 622 628 624 610 621 63.5 63.5 03S 622 629 622 616 624 626 617 632 629 662 622 637 631 625 317 317 317 05 614 452 610 741
Harger, Charles M.— Appointed Grand Orator 595 Address as Grand Orator 727 Hiawatha Lodge No. 35, Conditions in 32, 301 Hill, Ferris M., apfjointcd and installed Grand Senior Deacon 27 Historical Filing Case, additional purchased 49 Historical Registry and Abstract 43, 321, 616 History of Grand Lodge 335, 408, 404, 595, 632, 717, 719, 734, 782 History of Lodges 49, 122, 160, 330, 447, 022, 741 Holyrood Lodge No. 343, Master Suspended from Oflice 307, 452 Hopkins, Richard J.— Appointed Grand Orator 30 Address as Grand Orator 123 Horace Lodge No. 352, accepting petition of Nebraska reject 32 Hutchinson Lodge No. 445— Dispensation Issued... 45 Charter Granted 160 Constituted 323
INDEX
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XX.
xiu PAGE
Illegal Ballot 601, Indexing Proceedings 329, 447, Illegal Suspension of Members— Referring to 57, 163, 335, 453, 626, 637, Ruling of Grand Master regarding By-Law No. 125 Communication from Grand Secretary to Lodges regarding Second Notice Installation of Grand Officers 172, 463,
775 622 775 601 628 781
.lewels Presented— M :.W .: Elmer F. Strain M.-.W.-. Charles A. Loucks M.-.W.-. John W. Neilson .lohnson Lodge No. 441— Dispensation Issued Charter Granted Constituted Jurisdiction— Bourbon Lodge No. 268 and Virginia Lodge No. 315 Fidelity Lodge No. 106 and Advance Lodge No. 114 Hope Lodge No. 155 and Emporia Lodge No. 12 Wichita Lodge No. 99 and Tyrone Lodge No. 361, Oklahoma Jurisprudence, Report of Committee on 161,
305, 305, 602, 602, 449,
Kanorado Lodge No. 443— Dispensation Issued Charter Granted Constitvited Kincaid Lodge No. 338, disciplined Kingsdown Lodge No. 447— Dispensation Issued Charter Granted Constituted
302, 324 448 594, 616
Lamb, Watson M., P.-.G.-.M.-.— Death of. Memorial Page Report of Committee on Necrology Lawrence Lodge No. 6, Copy of Original Charter Lecturers— Appointed Per Diem and Expen.ses, By-Law No. 52 Referring to Lehman, Clayton, Declined Office of Grand Junior Warden Lenora Lodge No. 181, Hall and Charter Destroyed Librarian's Report— Report of Librarian Referred to Special Committee Report of Special Committee Library, James M. McFarland Lodge Dues—Suspension, By-Law No. 125 Amended 57, Lodge Funds, Manner in wliich kept and paid out Lodge Representatives present at Annual Communication Lodge Trial Continued, Decision of Grand Master Lodge Trial Remanded—Dismissed, Decision of Grand Master
168 4.'j8 778 44 158 322 452 452 776 776 768
44 159 322 68, 306, 452
:
26 249 149 630, 740 300, 595 455 30, 121, 166 27 594, 017 I l l , 385, 122, 167, :59, 122, 163, 637, 334, 453, 10, 285, 313, 312,
703 719 736 167 770 633 576 457 457
xiv
INDEX
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XX. PAGE
Lodge Trials— Change in System recommended 35 Special Committee Recommended 36 Special Committee Appointed 173 Report of Special Committee 437 Rules of Procedure in Masonic Trials, Appeals and Punishments. 439 Report of Committee on Jurisprudence 455 By-Law No, 34 (a), Commissioners of Trials. Adopted 455 Charges preferred by other than member of Lodge, Decision of Grand Master 608. 770 Lodge Trials, Commissioners of. Appointed 464, 782 Lodges, Alphabetical List of 221, 511, 829 Lodges and Ofllcers. list of 202, 492. 810 Lodges by Counties, list of 224, 514, 832 Lodges Constituted— Allen Lodge No. 335, AUen 321 Beaumont Lodge No. 439, Beaumont 44 Bendena Lodge No. 440. Bendena 321 Enterprise Lodge No. 437, Enterprise 43 Hutchinson Lodge No. 445, Hutchinson 323 Johnson Lodge No. 441, Johnson 322 Kanorado Lodge No. 443, Kanorado 322 Kingsdown Lodge No. 447, Kingsdown 594, 616 Rexford Lodge No. 442, Rexford 322 Satanta Lodge No. 446, Satanta •. 323 Stanley Lodge No. 444, Stanley 323 West Gate Lodge No. 438, Kansas City 44 Lodges Defunct, list of '. .....232, 522, 840 Lodges, List of Regular .....51, 331, 624 Lodges, Masters and Secretaries, list of 202, 492, 810 Loucks, Charles A.— Annual Address as Grand Master 299 Biographical Sketch 533 Portrait Frontispiece, Proc. 1926 Report as President Masonic Home Board 391 March, William Frank, Grand Treasurer, report of. 41. 319. G14 Martin, Paul M., installed Grand Junior Deacon 27 Masonic Building, Memorials, Decision of Grand Master 608, 770 Masonic Districts— Changes in '.....48, 328, 621 List of 177, 468, 786 Masonic Grand Lodge Building— Exterior and Interior Views Throughout Proc. 1927 Decorations in 329 Painting Basement 622 Masonic Halls Dedicated— At Atwood. September 20. 1926 , 699 At Cottonwood Falls, October 23, 1925 377 At Fort Scott, January 25, 1926 383 At Lawrence, December 10, 1924 368 At McDonald, September 24. 1924 105 Masonic Home— Entertainment by Children at Annual Communication 744 Report submitted by M.-.W.-. Elmer F. Strain 147 Masonic Home Board— Report of President 391. 745 Report of Secretary 113, 398, 707
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XX. PAGE
Masonic Home Endowment Fund— Contribution by Grand Lodge of $52,000, U. S. Fourtli Liberty Loan Bonds 609, 708 Donation of $10,000 by Grand Lodge 161 Donation of $500 U. S. Government Bond by Bro. Jacob I. Snyder ..633, 719, 736 Masonic.Temples, Financing ..599, 717, 735 Master cannot revoke action of Lodge, Decision of Grand Master 608, 770 Masters and Secretaries, list of : 202, 492, 810 McCall, James H.— Death of 300, 410 Memorial Page 539 McCoUoch, Robert P.— Address for District Meetings 133, 427,- 756 Appropriation of $150 for preparing address 390, 613 McFarland, James M., Library— Grand Secretary's Report, 1925..; 59 Referred to Special Committee 122 Report of Special Committee 167 Membership, Complete Summary of 200, 490, 808 Members of Defunct Lodges, Suspension of 51, 162, 331, 452 Memorial Pages.. .' 253, 543, 863 Mileage, Payment of by Grand Secretary 629 Minutes Approved 174, 465, 783 Miscellaneous— Grand Master's Address, 1925 38 Subjects referred to Special Committee 121 Report of Special Committee 167 Monitor, For Presenting to Candidates 611, 735 Monument Erected on Masonic Home Cemetery Lot, Wichita (Illustration) 710 Monument, Smith-Vanderslice— Grand Master's Address, 1927 .' 598 Special Communication Grand Lodge, Unveiling Monument 022 Pictures, Old and New Monument 666-668 Portraits, John W. Smith and Daniel Vanderslice 668 Special Committee Appointed 717 Report of Special Committee 735 Mulvane Lodge No. 201, Trial of Rue A. Thomas, sentence corrected 602 Muscotah Lodge No. 116. Master reprimanded 307, 452 Museum Cases, Additional purchased... 329, 622 National Geographic Magazine, Purchase of Complete Set 388, 460, 703 Necrology, Report of Committee on 148, 409, 719 Neilson, John W.— Annual Address as Grand Master , 592 Biographical Sketch 853 Jewel Presented 778 Portrait Frontispiece, Proc. 1927 Report as President Masonic Home Board 745 New Hampshire, Grand Lodge of— Grand Master's Address,. 1925 34 Special Report, Correspondence Committee 152 New Trial, Dismissed, Decision of Grand Master 312, 457 OfQcial Circulars Issued Official Receipt, Card Form Official Stenographer, Salary Olathe Lodge No. 19, Conditions in Opening Ceremony
65, 337, 635 57, 162, 332, 448 52, 163 32, 301 3. 277, 569
xvi
INDEX
TO VOLUME
XX. PAGE
Orations— By Richard J. Hopkins 123 By Charles G. Dunlap 414 B y W / . Francis M. Pearl at Unveiling of Smith-Vanderslice Monument 683 By Charles M. Harger 727 Organizations, Extraneous 604 Osgood, Edward W., death of 332 Paradise Lodge No. 290. Plainville, pamphlet report 58, 156 Parkhurst, Charlie, suspended from office 307, 452 Past Grand Masters' Association, proceedings 240, 537, 858 Past Grand Masters present at Annual Communication 0, 280, 572 Past Masters present at Annual Communication 8, 282, 574 Payment of Mileage by Grand Secretary 629 Pearl, Francis M., Oration at Unveiling of Smith-Vanderslice Monument... 683 Petitions—Committee of Investigation, By-Law No. 103 Amended 768 Petitions for Advancement—Contents and Disposition, By-Law No. 100 Amended 769 Petition for Charter direct to Grand Lodge, Bushong, refused IGO Physical Qualifications— Grand Master's Address, 1925 37 Special Committee Appointed 173 Report of Special Committee 438 Special Dispensation Refused 317 Pictures of Masonic Grand Lodge Building, B.xterior and Interior Views Throughout Proc. 19Z7 Place for Trial—Who May Bo Present—Testimony Reduced to Writing— Pledge of Witnesses, By-Law No. 144 Amended 743, 772 Place of Meeting 168, 458, 777 Portraits— Appointive Grand Officers 242, 532, 852 M.'.W.'. Charles A. Loucks Frontispiece, Proc. 1SZ6 M. Frontispiece, Proc. 1027 •.w . John W. Nellson M . •.w . Richard R. Rees, Portrait in Oil 63 R.- . w John W. Smith .• 668 M . •.w , Elmer F. Strain Frontispiece, Proc. 1925 R.• Daniel Vanderslice....' 668 . w R., Albert K. Wilson, Portrait in Oil 426 . w Portraits of Past Grand Masters. Concerning 622 Prayer at Opening of Grand Lodge 4, 278, 570 Proceedings for Appeal, By-Law No. 149 Amended 743, 773 Proceedings, Notes by Committee on Revision, 1898, Annulled 769 Raising Fee, Applicants for Membership from other Grand Jurisdictions... Recapitulation of Attendance at Annual Communication 23, 297, Record of Proceedings—Punishment—Mandate—Right of Appeal—Time for Sentence, By-Law No. 146 Amended 743, Records and Funds, Survey of. Reduced Railroad Pare 50, 331, Rees, Richard R., Oil Painting— Grand Secretary's Report, 1925 Subject Referred to Special Committee Report of Special Committee Picture of Painting Report of Commissioners of Trials
609 590 772 600 624 62 122 166 63 742
INDEX
TO VOLUME
XX. PAGE
Report of Committees— On Chartered Lodges and Lodges U. D 152, 443, On Correspondence 152, 443, On Correspondence, Special Beport on Grand Lodge of New Hampshire On Correspondence, Special Report on United Grand Lodge of Vera Cruz On Credentials 0, 279, On Finance and Property 169, 458, On Jurisprudence 161, 449, On Necrology 148, 409, On Reports of Grand Officers 120, 406, Report of Committees, Special— On Balloting On Boole of Instructions to District Deputy Grand Masters On Condition of the Craft—Monitor On Courtesies Exchanged On District Deputy Grand Masters On District Meetings On Donation to Masonic Home, Bro. Jacob I. Snyder , On Financing Masonic Temples On Funeral Service On History of Grand Lodge On History of Lodges On James M. McFarland Library On Lecturers On Librarian's Beport On Lodge Trials Addenda—Rules of Procedure in Masonic Trials, Appeals and Punishments On Miscellaneous On Oil Painting, M / . W / . Richard R. Rees On Physical Qualifications On Revision of Exhibit " T " On Unveiling Smith-Vanderslice Monument Beport of Council of Administration 390, Report of Grand Secretary 43, 321, Report of Grand Treasurer 41, 319, Beport of Librarian ..Ill, 385, Report of President Masonic Home Board 391, Beport of Secretary Masonic Home Board 113, 398, Eeports of Grand Officers, report of Committee on 120, 406, Requests to Confer Degrees, Courtesfes Exchanged— Address of Grand Master, 1925 Special Committee Appointed Report of Special Committee Report of Committee on Jurisprudence 456, Address of Grand Master, 1927 Report of Grand Secretary, 1927 Restoration of Charters 45, 324, Retiu-ns, Synopsis of 184, 474, Revenue and Expenses, Estimated 66, 341, Revision, Comnxittee on, 1898, Notes under head of "Proceedings" and " T i m e " Annulled Revision of Constitution and By-Laws ...> 625, Revision of Exhibit " T " 632, 719,
737 736 152 737 571 778 768 719 716 438 735 735 438 735 166 736 735 166 734 166 167 166 736 437 439 167 166 438 736 735 613 616 614 703 745 707 716 '27 123 438 768 600 623 617 792 638 769 769 736
INDEX
TO VOLUME
XX. PAGE
Bedford Lodge No. 442— Dispensation Issued Charter Granted Constituted Kosodale Lodge No. 33.3— Charter Lost Copy of Charter New Trial Ordered
44 159 322 31 45 450, 602
Salaries, By-Law No. 48 Amended 52, 57. 163 Satanta Lodge No. 446—• Dispensation Issued 45 Charter Granted 160 Constituted 323 Scammon Lodge No. 351, disciplined 68, 306, 452 Secretaries of Lodges, list of 202, 492, 810 Severance Lodge No. 313. Master reprimanded 308, 452 Shawnee Lodge No. 54. Grand Master's Address concerning 314, 602 Smart, Stanford M.. appointed Lecturer 300, 595 Smith, John W., (Smith-Vanderslice Monument)— Grand Master's Address, 1927 .598 Special Communication Grand Lodge, Unveiling Monument 662 Pictures, Old and New Monument 666—668 Portraits, .lohn W. Smith and Daniel Vanderslice 668 Special Committee Appointed 717 Report of -Special Committee 735 Smith, Lewis E., Grand Secretary of Nebraska, Reception of 756 Snyder, Jacob I., Donation to Masonic Home Endowment Fund 633 Social Affairs 34, 162, 304, 602, 770 Special Addresses by W.-. Robert P. McColloch... 133, 427, 756 Special Appropriations, Council of Administration 608 Special Committees— Recommended 36, 121, 408, 595, 632, 717, 734 Appointed 123, 173, 300, 464, 719, 782 Reports of 166, 437, 734 Special Communications of Grand Lodge— At Atwood, laying corner-stone 689 At Atwood, dedication of Masonic Temple 699 At Baldwin, laying corner-stone 98 At Brookville. laying corner-stone. 695 At Caney, laying corner-stone 373 At Conway Springs, laying corner-stone 372 At Cottonwood Falls, laying corner-stone 374 At Cottonwood Falls, dedication of Masonic Hall 377 At Ellsworth, funeral service for M.-.W.-. Edward W. Wellington 110 At Fort Scott, laying corner-stone 382 At Port Scott, dedication of Masonic Hall 383 At Fulton, laying corner-stone 369 At Hepler, laying corner-stone 103 At Hiawatha, laying corner-stone 375 At Highland, unveiling Smith-Vanderslice Monument 662 At Hutchinson, laying corner-stone -. 371 At Hutchinson, laying corner-stone 701 At Johnson, laying corner-stone 378 At Kansas City, laying corner-stone 97 At Kansas City, lajing corner-stone 101 At Kansas City, laying corner-stone 696
INDEX
TO VOLUME
XX.
xix PAGE
At Lawrence, dedication of Masonic Temple 368 At Lebanon, laying corner-stone 95 At Leoti, laying corner-stone 691 At McCune, laying corner-stone 102 At McDonald, dedication of Masonic Temple 105 At McPherson, laying corner-stone 99 At Melvern, laying corner-stone 100 At Montezuma, laying corner-stone 381 At Ness City, laying corner-stone 698 At Norcatur, lajing corner-stone 694 At Oberlin, laying corner-stone 693 At Parsons, laying corner-stone 108 At Pittsburg, laying corner-stone 370 At St. Francis, laying corner-stone 96 At Towanda, laying corner-stone 697 At Troy, laying corner-stone.... 376 At Valley Center, laying corner-stone 380 At "Wellington, laying corner-stone 104 At White Church, laying corner-stone 107 At Wichita, laying corner-stone 109 Special Dispensations Issued 28, 302, 597 Sperry, Frank D., installed Grand Junior Steward 594 Standing Committees— Appointed 173, 464, 782 Serving 24, 298, 591 Stanley Lodge No. 444— Dispensation Issued 45 Charter Granted 159 Constituted 323 Stated Communications, Time not shown on Annual Reports..67, 337, 635, 740 Statistical Tables— Alphabetical List of Lodges 221, 511, 829 Complete Summary 200, 490, 808 Defunct Lodges 232, 522, 840 Elective Grand Officers from Organization :218, 508, 826 Exhibit " T " 82, 366, 646 Expelled, list of 201, 491, 809 Grand Lodges and Grand Secretaries 236, 526, 844 Grand Representatives near Kansas 241, 531, 850 Grand Representatives near other Grand Lodges 239, 529, 847 Lodges by Counties 224, 514, 832 Lodges, Masters and Secretaries 202, 492, 810 Suspended, list of 201, 491, 809 Synopsis of Returns 184, 474, 792 Stuart, William I.— Death of 300, 410 Memorial Page 541 Strain, Elmer F.— Annual Address as Grand Master 25 Biographical Sketch 243 Jewel Presented 168 Portrait Frontispiece, Proc. 1925 Report concerning Masonic Home 147. Sub-Offlcers present at Annual Communication 6, 280, 572 Summons for Accused in New Trial, Decision of Grand Master 312, 457 Suspended, list of 201, 491, 809
XX
INDEX
TO VOLUME
XX. PAGE
Suspension of Members, Illegal,— Referring to " 57, 163, 335, 453, 626, "637, 775 Ruling of Grand Master regarding By-Law No. 125 601 Communication from Grand Secretary to Lodges regarding Second Notice 628 Synopsis of Returns ..184, 474, 792 Taylor, Roy H.. removed from office 307, 452 Telegrams Received— From M.-.W.-. William I. Stuart 5 From M.'.W.'. Marion K. Brundage 5 From R.-. W.-. Walter O. Haines 278 Telegrams Sent— To M .-.W.-. William 1. Stuart 4 To M .-.W.-. Perry M. Hoislngton 4 To M.-.W.-. Marion K. Brundage 5 Time, Notes by Committee on Revision, 1898, Annulled 769 Transcript of Trial, Decision of Grand Master 312, 457 Transcript of Trials sent Committee on Jurisprudence 58, 332, 625 Transfer Cases Purchased 329 Transfer of Membership, By-Law No. 170 Amended 33, 162 Trial Continued, Decision of Grand Master 313, 457 Trial Remanded—Dismissed, Decision of Grand Master 312, 457 Trials— Change in System Recommended 35 Special Committee Recommended 36 Special Committee Appointed 173 Report of Special Committee 437 Rules of Procedure in Masonic Trials, Appeals and Punishments.. 439 Report of Committee on Jurisprudence 455 By-Law No. 34 (a). Commissioners of Trials, Adopted. 455 Charges preferred by other than member of Lodge, Decision of Grand Master 608, 770 Tri.als, Commissioners of. Appointed 464, 782 Troutfetter, Frank C Installed Grand Junior Steward 27 Unveiling Ceremony, Smith-Vanderslice Monument— Grand Master's Address, 1927 Special Communication Grand Lodge, Unveiling Monument Pictures. Old and New Monument ." Portraits. John W. Smith and Daniel Vanderslice Special Committee Appointed Report of Special Committee
598 662 666-668 668 717 735
Vanderslice, Daniel, (Smith-Vanderslice Monument)— Grand Master's Address, 1927 598 Special Communication Grand Lodge, Unveiling Monument 662 Pictures, Old and New Monument 666-668 Portraits. John W. Smith and Daniel Vanderslice 668 Special Committee Appointed 717 Report of Special Committee 735 .Vera Cruz, United Grand Lodge of. Special Report of Correspondence Committee 737 Vermillion Lodge No. 320, Grand Master's Address concerning 314 visitors Welcomed 5, 278. 571 Vote of Thanks— To Wichita 173. 783 To Topeka 465
INDEX
TO VOLUME
XX.
xxi PAGE
Warrant Account Washington Lodge No. 5, Grand Master's Address concerning Washington Memorial Bible Wellington, Edward W., P.-.G.-.M.'.— Death of Funeral Services Memo'rial Page Keport of Committee on Necrology Wellington, Thomas W., Grand Master of Iowa, Introduced WeUs, Emerson B., installed Grand Sword Bearer West Gate Lodge No. 438— Constituted •Whltaker. Grafton D., appointed Lecturer Whitewater; Brainerd Lodge No. 280— Grand Master's Address, 1926 Charter Arrested Charter Revoked Wilson, Albert K.— Committee on Correspondence, report of Committee on Correspondence, Special reports of Correspondence Reviews Grand Secretary, reports of Librarian, reports of .Portrait in Oil Witness, Incriminating Testimony, Decision of Grand Master Wood, Owen J., Expression of Sympathy Work Exemplifled before Grand Lodge Xenia Lodge No. 47, reprimand
84, 3f54, 648 314 315 26 110 251 150 414 27 44 595 314 603 776 152, 443, 736 152, 737 Sec Appendix 43, 321, 616 H I , 385, 703 425 313, 457 571 147, 436, 755 308, 452
PROCEEDINGS
M;.W;. GRAND LODGE ANCIENT, FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS
KANSAS. SEVENTY-SECOND ANNUAL COMMUNICATION, HELD IN THE CITY OF TOPEKA, KANSAS, February 22 and 23, A. D. 1928, A. L. 5928.
VOLUME XXI, PART 1. M.-.W.-. FERRIS M. HILL, Grand Master, Emporia. R.-. W.-. ALBERT K. WILSON, Grand Secretary, Topeka.
Published by Order of the M.-.W.'. Grand Lodge.
1928.
GRAND OFFICERS FOR 1928. M ,W.-. F E R R I S M . H I L L R.-. W.-. GEORGE F . BBEZLEY
Grand Master Emporia. Deputy Grand Master ..Girard.
R.-. W.-. JAY B . KIRK R:. W.-.JOHN M. KiNKEL
Grand Senior Warden .loia. Grand Junior Warden.Topeka.
R.-. W.-. WILLIAM FRANK MABCH. Grand Treasurer Lawrence. R.-. W.-. ALBERT K . W I L S O N Grand Secretary ..Topeka. Bro. and Rev. F R E D E . BROOKS Grand Chaplain Topeka. W.'. J. FORREST AYRES Grand Senior DeacoK... Greenleaf.
W.'. RoscoE E. PETERSON
Grand Junior Deacon ..Larned.
W.-. BENJAMIN F . H E I S Grand Marshal Leavenworth. W.-. GROVER C . UKBANSKY ...Grand Sword Bearer...'..St. Marys. W.-. CLARENCE M . CROSBY ...Grand Senior Steward ..St. Francis. W . - . J O S E P H C . HART Grand Junior Steward..hakin. W.-. HOMER T . HARDEN...-. Grand Pursuivant Wichita. W.'.W. AMER BURNETT Grand Tyler Oberlin.
PLACE OF MEETING—1929. The seventy-third Annual Communication of The M.-.W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas, will be held in the city of Wichita, Kansas, on the third Wednesday, being the 20th day of February, A. D. 1929, A. L. 5929, at 9 o'clock A. M.
Ketcheson—Leavenworth.
CHA RLES NEWTON FOWLER GRAi'lD l\iASTER,
February 24, 1927, to February 23 , 1928.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE
JVI.-.W.-. GRAND LODGE —OF— A. F . & A. M. OF KANSAS.
SEVENTY-SECOND ANNUAL COMMUNICATION. TOPEKA, KANSAS, February 22, 1928. The M.-.W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas convened in Annual Communication in Representative Hall, State Capitol, in the city • of Topeka, Kansas, Wednesday, the 22nd day of February, A. D. 1928, A. L. 5928, at 8:30 A. M. GRAND OFFICERS PRESENT. M.-.W.-.CHARLES N . FOWLER Grand Master R.\ W.'. FERRIS M . HILL Deputy Grand Master R.-. W . ' . G E O R G E F . BBEZLEY Grand Senior Warden R.-. W . ' . J A Y B . KIRK Grand Junior Warden R.-. W.. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH...Grand Treasurer R.-. W . - . A L B E R T K . WILSON Grand Secretary Bro. and Rev. JOHN WESLEY BATES..Grond Chaplain W.'. JOHN M . KINKEL Grand Senior Deacon W.". PERRY E . MILLER Grand Junior Deacon W.-. ROBERT LBNON Grand Marshal W.-. WILLIAM E . CAIN Grand Sword Bearer W.'.LAUREN D . RIGG Grand Senior Steward W/. R. NELSON LONG Grand Junior Steward W.-. HOMER T. HARDEN Grand Pursuivant W.-. W. AMER BURNETT Grand Tyler
Salina. Emporia. Girard. Tola. Lawrence. Topeka. Salina. Topeka. Wellington. Salina. Perry. Leon. Hoxie. Wichita. Oberlin.
OPENING CEREMONY.
A constitutional number of lodges being represented. The M..W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was opened in Ample Form, after an invocation of divine blessing by Rev. JOHN WESLEY BATES, Grand Chaplain.
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
OPENING PRAYER.
Almighty GOD, in Whom we live and move and have our being, we adore Thee as the one GOD and Father of us all, in Whose name we present our adoration, our thanksgiving, and our supplications. We now reaffirm our trust in Thee, and express our heart of gratitude for life, health, food, raiment and shelter, and graciously acknowledge that all these good gifts we daily receive from Thy bountiful store-house of grace. We are thankful to Thee for the joy of our homes, the benefits of our schools, the blessing of our commonwealth, the brotherhood of man, the Holy Bible, the privileges of the Church and the hope of life eternal which are our inheritance. We are glad for the high ideals of Masonry that through Thy providence has survived the Centuries and whose holy principles have come down the corridors of time, giving hope, and kindling love in the hearts of men, helping the weak, comforting the widow, and blessing the orphan. On this day of memory and of national reflection, as we think of the Father of our Country, the Illustrious WASHINGTON, we thank Thee for the timely life of this soldier, hero, patriot, statesman and Mason and the part he had in the founding of our government. Continue to bless and prosper our nation which is established upon the foundation principles of freedom, equity, justice and humanity, for which American patriots sacrificed their fortunes and lives. We beseech Thee to defend our land from the secret power and open shame of great national sins; from dishonesty and civic corruption; from cruelty and the spirit of violence; from intemperance, the source of many crimes and much sorrow. Grant America may always stand for that which is holy, lofty, good. Guide by power Divine our Chief Executive and all in authority in our national affairs. Help us as Masons to perform our duty to our Country; to love it with all our heart; support its Constitution; to obey its laws; to respect its flag, and to defend it against all enemies. We ask Thy special benediction to rest and remain upon every session of this Grand Lodge ofMasons of Kansas. Direct our M.'. W.\ Grand Master and all other officers and representatives of this Body in the performance of their respective duties. May all that is thought, said and done redound to Thy honor and glory and the advancement of every interest of Masonry to the ends of the earth. Let the light of Thy presence fall upon our pathway. Even now may we behold Thy strength and beauty. Keep us from every form of vanity and pride. Deliver us from the lust of display. May we be more concerned to be honored of GOD than of men. Set our minds upon
1927-2S.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
5
things that are above and help us to rise beyond everything that is mean, sordid and selfish to the better life. Impart unto us a spirit of simplicity and lowliness, so we may apprehend Thy glory for His name's sake. Amen. WELCOME TO VISITORS.
The M.-.W.'. Grand Master extended a cordial invitation to all Master Masons in good standing to attend this Annual Communication. TELEGRAM.
The following telegram was received from R.'. W.'. 0. HAINES, Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of Kansas near the Grand Lodge of Oregon: WALTER
ALBERT K . WILSON, Grand Secretary,
Topeka, Kansas. Please convey to Grand Master and Grand Lodge best wishes from Grand Master and Brethren of Oregon for a most pleasant and successful Communication. WALTER O . HAINES,
Grand Representative.
LETTER FROM R.-.W.-.WILLIAM H. GALLAGHER.
An interesting letter from Rev. and Bro. WILLIAM H . Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of Kansas near the Grand Lodge of Michigan was read by the Grand Secretary, and on motion it was ordered that proper mention be made of this communication in the printed Proceedings, and the thanks of the Grand Lodge be extended to our distinguished brother. GALLAGHER,
February,
PROCEEDINGS OF THE
INTRODUCTION OF GRAND REPRESENTATIVES. The Grand Secretary called the roll of Grand Representatives near the Grand Lodge of Kansas, who were introduced by M.-. W.-. OWEN J. WOOD, Grand Representative of Indiana, and were welcomed by the M.-. W/. Grand Master. Suitable acknowledgment of the reception accorded them was made by W.'. JOHN M . KINKEL, Grand Representative of Alabama. REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON CREDENTIALS.
W.-. ROBERT H . MONTGOMERY, chairman, submitted the following report, which, on motion, was adopted: To The M.:W.:Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: Your Committee on Credentials begs leave to report the following members and representatives present and entitled to seats in this Grand Lodge: GRAND OFFICERS.
M -.W.-. CHARLES N . FOWLER R.-. W.-.FERRIS M . HILL R.-.W.-. GEORGE F.. BEEZLEY R.-. W.'. JAY B . KIKK
Grand Master. Deputy Grand Master. Grand Senior Warden. Grand Junior Warden.
R.-. W.'. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH R.-. W.'.ALBEKT K . WILSON Bro. and Rev. JOHN WESLEY BATES
Grand Treasurer. ...Grand Secretary. Grand Chaplain.
W.-. JOHN M . KINKEL W.-.PERRY E . MILLER
Grand Senior Deacon. Grand Junior Deacon.
W.-. ROBERT LENON
Grand Marshal.
W.-.WiLLiAM E. CAIN W.'.LAUREN D . RIGG W.'. R. NELSON LONG W.'.HoMER T. HARDEN
Grand Grand Grand Grand
W.'. W. AMER BURNETT
Grand Tyler.
Sword Bearer. Senior Steward. Junior Steward. Pursuivant.
SUB-OFFICERS.
Bro. LARKIN D . BOWERS
Grand Orator.
Bro. FREDERIC H . WILSON
Assistant to Grand Secretary.
Bro. LEON L . COUSLAND
Official Stenographer.
Bro. WILLIAM J. BOND
Assistant Grand Tyler.
W.\ HARVEY O . DAVIS W.-. STANFORD M . SMART
Lecturer. Lecturer.
Bro. GRAFTON D . WHITAKER
Assistant Lecturer.
1927-2S.
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
Year of PAST GRAND MASTERS. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-.
g^^^-^^
PERRY M . HOISINGTON THOMAS G . PITCH WILLIAM EASTON HUTCHISON ELRICK C . COLE WILLIAM L. BURDICK G I L E S H . LAMB OWEN J. WOOD
1901 1904 1912 1913 1915 1916 1919
M.-.W.-. B E N S. PAULEN
1921
M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-.
1922 1924 1925 1926
JOHN MCCULLAGH ELMER F . STRAIN CHARLES A. LOUCKS JOHN W . NEILSON DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTERS.
District No. PAUL M . MARTIN RAYMOND A. N E V I N BENJAMIN F . H E I S THOMAS B . W E B B HERBERT E . JULIEN FRED ROY ALFORD EDGAR T . FOSTER JOHN F . WYATT A. PHILLIP LAPHAM CLAUDE C . B A C O N . . . CLARENCE E . BIRCH JAY B . BENNETT '. LEWIS W . DAVIS WALDEMAR V. R I E S E N JAMES M . LAYTON JAMES NELSON CLICK FOCKELE JAMES H . BEEGLE JAMES W . MCCOLLOCH EMIL KRATOCHVIL JAMES T . GRIFFING WILLIAM H . ANDERSON RAPHAEL A. COOK HENRY L . GAMES DAVID A. NYWALL
1 2 3 4 5 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 18 19 20 21 :....-..23 24 25 26 33 34 -...35 37 38
District No. OLIVER E . MURDICK BYRON W . OLIVER JOHN S . RIGG LEWIS G . JENNINGS JOHN J. RECHT JOSEPH E . BREAKEY WILLIAM, E . DILLINGER JAMES T . FOWLER BENJAMIN H . FLYR CLARENCE M . CROSBY DAVID C . KAY GUY R . CURRIER CLARENCE G . NEVINS JOHN B . FLEMING BARLUS ROMSTEDT GEORGE R . THOMASON ELMER S. NANCE CLEVELAND T . MARTIN GEORGE H . MOSS PAUL B . HOFFMANN J. LAWTON STANLEY..: CHARLES H . ZINN PRESSLEY M . FINER JAMES H . TRICE DEAN E . DAVIS
,
39 40 41 43 44 45 46 49 51 53 54 :.55 ...57 59 60 61 63 64 67 68 69 73 74 75 76
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
GRAND REPRESENTATIVES. Alabama W.-.JoHN M. KINKEL. Arizona , W.'.W. AMER BURNETT. Arkansas W.". CLAYTON LEHMAN. British Columbia W.'. A. P H I L L I P LAPHAM. California M.-.W.'.WILLIAM EASTON HUTCHISON. Colorado • W . ' . L A U R E N D . RIGG. Connecticut W.. CLARENCE R . ATEN. Cuba W . . ROY H . CLCSSEN. District of Columbia R.-. W.. FERRIS M . HILL. Ecuador R.-. W.. JAY B . KIRK. England -..R.'. W.-.ALBERT K . WILSON. Florida M.'.W.'. ELMER F . STRAIN. Georgia W.. CLICK FOCKELE. Guatemala W.-.LUCIAN L . CONSTANT. Honduras W.'.FRANK D . SPBRRY. Illinois M.-.W.-.CHARLES N . FOWLER. Indiana M.'.W.. OWEN J. WOOD. Ireland W . ' . J O H N DAVIS. Kentucky W.'.ROBERT H . MONTGOMERY. Louisiana W . ' . H O M E R T . HARDEN. Maryland W.. MOSES H . COLE. Mexico (York Grand Lodge) ...R.'. W.. ALBERT K . WILSON. Missouri M.'. W . ' . F E R R Y M . HOISINGTON. Montana W . . J A M E S H . BEEGLE. New Brunswick W . ' . H A R R Y E . PEACH. New Jersey W.'.GuY W^ BROWN. New York R.'. W.-.GEORGE F . BEEZLEY. New Zealand W . - . F R A N K E . DAVIS. North Carolina W.'.R. NELSON LONG. Nova Scotia : . . M . ' . W . ' . J O H N MCCULLAGH. Oklahoma W.'. DAVID A. NYWALL. Oregon W.. CHARLEY B . ERSKINE. Panama W.', JAMES A. CASSLER. Philippine Islands W.'. ROY G . SHEARER. Puerto Rico M . ' . W . . W I L L I A M L . BURDICK. Queensland M . ' . W . . E L R I C K C . COLE. Rhode Island R.'. W . . WILLIAM FRANK MARCH. Salvador W.'.BENJAMIN F . HEIS. Saskatchewan W . ' . J O H N B . FLEMING. Scotland W . ' . H A R V E Y O . DAVIS. South Australia W.'. RICHARD W . EVANS. South Carolina W . ' . O T T O R . SOUDERS. South Dakota M.'.W.-.CHARLES A. LOUCKS. ' Tasmania M . ' . W . ' . B E N S. PAULEN. Tennessee • W . . H U B E R T H . HUBBARD.
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
Texas
OF
KANSAS.
M.-.W.-.GILES H . LAMB.
Victoria
W.-. C L A R E N C E M . C R O S B Y .
Virginia
W.-. B A R L U S R O M S T E D T .
Washington
W . - . S T A N F O R D M . SMART.
West Virginia Western Australia
M.'.W.-.JOHN W . NEILSON. M.-.W.-.THOMAS G . FITCH. PAST MASTERS. 2
BERT W . KRAFF
CHARLES R . MOORE BENJAMIN F . H E I S
2 2
GEORGE M . EAGLE
17
F R E D A. B O U C H E R
18
HOLMES W . HAVILAND....
3
JAME.S E . P O R T E R «
3
LLOYD R . HERSHEY W I L L I A M L. W I L K I N S O N . .
19 19
EARL C . YOAKUM CHARLES L . HIXON.
4 5
E L M E R L . GALLOWAY H E R B E R T A. M U R R A Y
19 21
FRANK E . DAVIS
5
VIRGIL P . MURRAY
21
LANDON C . ALLEN GEORGE O . FOSTER
6 6
GEORGE HARMAN FRANK D . MATHIAS
21 29
CARL H . MOORE PAUL MADDEN
32 32
F R E D T . N.YE
No.
No.
17
D A V I D PASSON
6
JAMES NAISMITH
6
JAMES SANDERLIN LINDLEY L . LEFLER
7 8
WILLIAM DICKSON
32
HENRY W . MAUNEY
82
CLAUDE F . YOUNG
8
JOHN H . PARKER
9
FRANCIS M . PEARL WILLIAM H . WOODS
35. 36
P A U L A. L A N G E ALBERT M . CURRY
9 9
GEORGE M . COPLIN
37
S E A M A N A. E L L I S
38
ROBERT H . STEWART
9
ERNEST E . FELLERS WILLIAM H . EASTMAN
9 9
N E D C. MATHEWS ALBERT W . WARD
39 39
CLARENCE H . LUTZ....,
42
CHARLES W . GARRISON...
44
WALTER E . BUELL
47
CHESTER E . JOSS EVAN DAVIS
51 51
JOHN H . CLARKE . H A R R Y E . PEACH W I L L I A M H . H A R R I S O N ...
10 12 12
CHARLES G . W E S T
12
EARL E . FAWCETT ALBERT H . THOMAS
12 12
H E N R Y NoTHDORF
14
IVOR E . DAVIS
51
E L L S W O R T H B . S E W E L L . .. EDGAR D . M A Y
51 51 51
14
CLINTON D . HART
DAVID C . WAUGH
14
F R A N K L . S T E V E N S '.
51
B'RICK P . D A V I S
14
W I L L I A M F. R O O T
51
DWIGHT E . COOK
16
WILLIAM R . CARRIE
51
F R E D G . KIMBALL GEORGE W . MCCLELLAND
16 17
CHARLES W . SPRENG J O H N A. S T E I N M E Y E R
51 52
JAMES B . DONCYSON NATHAN B . THOMPSON . .
17 17
GROVER C . URBANSKY
52
JAMES S . FITZGERALD
53
PERCY L . REED
17
H O M E R C. A N D E R S O N
17
REGINALD MILLER V E R N O N T . N I C H O L S O N ....
54 56
JOHN HOSKINSON
•
10
PR^
EDIJS •as OF THE
No. 58 60 62 63 68 68 69 70 70 72 73 76 79 79 79 79 80 83 90 90 90 90 90 90 90 90 O. PoRTis DAVIS 90 90 CLARENCE E . MAUNEY.... 90 HENRY G..BUECHNER CHESTER A. BUELL 90 ALBERT E . ANDREW 90 HORACE D . MILLER 90 LYNN R . BRODRICK 91 W I L B E B E . ROBBINS 97 ROY G . SHEARER 98 OTTO R . SOUDERS 99 ALFRED WILLIAMS 99 THEODORE P. PERRY 102 •ROY H . CLOSSEN 102 JAMES M . J A C O B Y 107 ELLIS F I N K 110 HAROLD P. SMYTH 113 H A R V E Y R. R E E D 117 117 M I L E S J \ PEMBER OLIVER E . RHOADES 129 JOHN DAVIS 129 CHARLES B . HUDDLESTON ROBERT G . KIMBALL WALTER D . MILLER ROBERT H . MONTGOMERY JOSEPH F . SEYMOUR ELZA W . R E E L ARTHUR J. WHITMORE FRANK E . BLOOD ISRAEL E . BBIGGS OLIVER M . ANDERSON SIGMUND LEHMAN RALPH C . HENDERSON HARRY T . BEALB CHARLES E . SCOTT OPHER L . ENGLE WILLIAM A. HAWKS CHARLES A. REMY CRILEY E . CORY FERDINAND VOILAND JAMES H . MURRELL WILLIAM NELSON ROBERT C . CALDWELL CHARLES E . VAN VLECK.. JAMES ALLEN WERNER G . OPPERMAN... RAY B . RAMSEY
IRVING P. BBLDEN HARRY L . BURNETT JOHN W . COPELAND ARTHUR D . CONRAD EARL T.. PYLE J E S S E W . LEWIS ALBERT 0 . JUSTICE JOHN A. HETZBL CHARLES F . HUTTON JOHN M . BOYD CLAUDE 0 . CONKEY GUY W . BROWN THOMAS H . SMYTH FRANK D . SPERRY RALPH E . POWERS HARVEY G . LOWRANGE.. CLARENCE J . WELLS EDWARD R . EVANS GEORGE E . KAUFMAN JOHN B . R U L E WERNER B . LEVIN FERNANDO J. LEDOUX.... LOUIS FEUERBACHER JAMES W . BELL BERTINE P . WALKER RICHARD E . THOES OLCOTT W . LITTLE JERRY B . FIELDS CHARLES A. HELLER JAMES A. CASSLER GEORGE G . HULTQVIST...
LuciAN L. CONSTANT... LEVERETT G . WOLFE...... HERBERT R . HULL FRANK R . STANTON JOHN E . STOWBLL RICHARD J. ARBUTHNOT SIDNEY R . COLE OSCAR F . LOHOEFENER... GEORGE W . TROUT OSCAR E . R I P F E L WILLIAM C . ALLAN GEORGE M . BYAL PASCHAL W . LUNDY GEORGE W . SUGGS CHRISTIAN W . RICH
February,
No. 130 133 133 134 134 136 141 142 142 142 142 145 145 146 147 149 150 152 158 158 158 158 159 160 160 161 161 161 166 172 172 173 174 175 178 179 180 184 1'86 187 189 190 191 191 193 193
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE OF
HUBERT H . HUBBARD No. 194 HARVEY O. DAVIS 200 ROBERT P. MCCOLLOCH .. 200 ROBERT C . DAY 205 MOSES H . COLE 206 CLARENCE R . ATEN 222 WILLIAM J. DAVIES 222 EDWARD O. THOMPSON... 222 RICHARD W . EVANS 222 SIDNEY S. JANES 225 VICTOR S. BOUTWELL 225 FRANK S. CRANE 225 SAMUEL ALEXANDER 225 GEORGE W . BAINTER 225 WILLIAM C . CARTLIDGE... 225 SADLIER J. HODGINS , 225 HOMER B. F I N K 225 J. FORREST AYRES 232 EDGAR L. GANN 233 GEORGE L . JOHNSON 236 ALFRED H . CARMAIN 244 CHARLES F . HARBESON... 252 ALVA L . SOICE: 252 ASA O. GERE 252 JOSEPH C . CHASE 259 CHARLES B . BRAYMAN 261 PAUL C . GAEST 265 HUDSON FUHRER 267 LLOYD BISHOP 269 ARTHUR H . STRICKLAND.. 272 ALVA L . SWEARINGEN 272 FRANCIS P. STRICKLAND .. 272 JEREMIAH GRINDROD 272 HARRISON D . BURCHELL.. 273 WILLIAM JOBLING 275 VICTOR L . OWENS 280 CHARLEY B . ERSKINE 283 ROBERT TELFER ' 288 NOAH F . SHAW 290 JOHN B . BBELER 294 CHRISTIAN C . KILLIAN .... 296 WILLIAM A. NAYLOR 300
RoscoB T. NICHOLS
300
BENJAMIN F . DUNKIN GEORGE M . LOWRY HARRY F . SUMMERS
303 303 305
KANSAS.
WILLIAM I. THOMPSON . . . N O . JOHN E . ELLIS JACOB P. SCOTT HARRY E . WALTER GEORGE GETTY BERTON J. BROWN WILLIAM A. WBIKAMP E . GLENN ROBISON JOSEPH H . CONARD WILLIAM P. PORTER CHARLES R . PETERSON ... FRANK MCDOUGALL OSCAR L. KISTLER JONATHAN SCHMITTER WILLIAM R . BUCHANAN .. GEORGE A. H. STURHAHN WILLIAM F . GUNTER MILES J. KEETON EARL H. ADAMS LEWIS G . GIPPLE T. EDWARD STAFFORD CHARLES K E S L L E E C. CHRISTENSON CHARLES C . MCMURRAY. JOSEPH F . DEMAIN JOHN D . HARKNESS CHARLES HIEBSCH OSCAR A. BROWN WILLIAM H . BROWN EDSON J. LUNGER ABRAHAM PETERS BAYARD J. LONG JESSE O . SCANTLIN DAVID C . KAY WILLIAM H . POWELL.. HENRY E . FLICKINGER .... HOWARD E . HOUCK EMERSON B . WELLS CHARLES A. WELLS JOHN M . WATTS CHARLES O. HAWKS LAVELLE C . HICKS MELVIN C . ONSEN ROBERT BIGHAM OTTO E . PERRY HAROLD T . ENGLISH ERNEST C . FRIESEN
11 305' 305 307 309 309 310 311 314 316 316 321 322 326 328 329 333 334 338 354 357 362 362 363 369 371 375 378 383 387 393 399 409 409 414 416 416 419 420 420 420 421 424 438 443 444 445 445
12
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
Kebruary.
LODGE R E P R E S E N T A T I V E S . Smilhton No. 1.—JOSEPH
L . ALLEN, M . , proxy for J. W.; PAUL M .
MARTIN, proxy for S. W. Leavenworth No. 2.—CHARLES
R . MOORE, M . ; CHARLES E . CART,
proxy for S. W.; ORVILLE R . HOBBS, J. W. Wyandotte No. 3.—CHARLES
W . ANDERSON, M . ; WILLIAM J. RONEY,
S. W.; ROY V. HOWLETT, J. W. Kickapoo No. h-—W. ROGER MARTIN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Washington No. 5.—GEORGE A. BLAKESLEE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Lawrence No. 6.—JOHN
J. KISTLER, M . ; GEORGE D . WALL, S. W . ;
IVAN BENSON, J. W. Union No. 7.—JAMES
E . LANG, M . , proxy for J. W.;
ROLAND V.
BLANCHARD, S. W . Rising
Sun No. 8.—JESSE
C . BRIGGS, ^.;
CHARLES W . WILLIAMS,
S. W.; ERNEST WILLIAMS, proxy for J. W. Acacia No. 9.—SAMUEL
HURWITZ, M . ; ROBERT C . ARDREY, S. W . ;
RALPH R . HOWARD, J. W. King Solomon No. 10.—DEWITT
T . WRIGHT, M . ; JOHN H . CLARKE,
proxy for S. W.; VALENTINE A. HANK, J. W. Jewell No. 11.—ELNATHAN Emporia
B . GRAY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
No. 12.—EARL
R . WEIMBR, M . ; JOHN A. MYERS, S. W . ;
WILLIAM G . ROBERTS, J. W. Nemaha No. 13.—PRANK
HANNUM, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Oskaloosa No. H.—WILLIAM
A. PAYNE, M . ; HENRY NOTHDORF, proxy
for S. W.; DAVID C . WALL, proxy for J. W. Great Bend No. 15.—PRICE
BONDURANT, S . W . , proxy for M.;
GRANT
JONES, proxy for J. W. Lafayette No. 16.—HERBERT J. W.
W . BATCHELOR, M . , proxy for S. W. and
-
Topeka No. 17.—SCOTT E . KELSEY, M . ; GEORGE E . SEYBOLD, S. W . ; JOSEPH J. DOWNIE, J. W. Ottawa No. 18.—JAMES
C . DAUGHERTY, M . ; WILLIAM T . GILLILAND,
S. W.; F R E D A. BOUCHER, proxy for J. W. Olathe No. 19.—GEORGE
F . GILLIAM, M . ; BRITTON A. POWELL, S. W . ;
DWIGHT R . BROWN, J. W. Circleville No. 20.—JOSEPH
C . HILL, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Valley Falls No. 21.—EMIL
0 . GUTSCH, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Palmyra No. 23.—BEN
F . LARNER, M . ; ARTHUR M . GARDNER, proxy
for S. W.; BURK W. HuGHES, J. W. Osage Valley No. 2i.—LEROY
O ' B R I E N , M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
1027-28.
GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS.
13
Neosho No. 27.—ORAL LESLEY PERKINS, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W. Towanda No. 30.—NAPOLEON L . REED, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Auburn No. 32.—CLARENCE
R . BAXTER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Havensville No. 3U.—JOHN HARRIS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Hiawatha No. 35.—WILLIAM
F . HARRIS, M . ; ROSCOE T . NICHOLS,
S. W.; JOHN M . JOHNSON, J. W. Council Grove No. 36.—GEORGE J. W.
R . THOMASON, proxy for M., S. W. and
.
Paola No. 37.—FRED F . RUSSELL, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W. lola No. 38.—FRANK
H . LINDSLY, proxy for M. and S. W.;
SEAMAN
A. ELLIS, proxy for J. W. Seneca No. 39.—HARLEY
E . WILCOX, M . ; JOHN J. VANARTE, S. W . ;
FLOYD S . CARPENTER, J. W. De Soto No. UO.—LEO S. LARGE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. McKinley No. kl.—MAX
D . ROBERTS, M . , proxy for J. W.;
WILLIAM
EVEY, S. W . Holton No. i.2.—CHARLES
A. COCHERELL, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Delphian No. U.—SAMUEL
B . STONE, M . ; GEORGE W . BARNDT, proxy
for S. W.; WILLIAM P. STILES, proxy for J. W. Easton No. Jt5.—ALBERT F . ROBINSON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Xenia No. i.7.—WALTER
E . BUELL, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Mackey No. US.—ERNEST
WILDE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Lake No. 50.—RAYMOND
R . NEISWENDBR, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Orient No. 51.—LYMAN
A. CORLIS, M . ; HUGH B . MCGRATH, S. W . ;
SHERMAN T . BOURASSA, J. W. Wetmore No. 53.—DAVID
C . EBELMBSSER, JR., M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Spring Hill No. 56.—CHARLES
E . KELLY, M . , proxy for J. W.; FRANK
W. COLE, S . W . McCracken No. 58.—HENRY
0 . CURTIS, M . , proxy for J. W.;
PERCY
GRUMBEIN, proxy for S. W. Salina No. 60.—J. RALPH PAYTON, M . ; CHARLES A. BROOM, S . W . ; DONALD R . MAXWELL, J. W. La Cygne'No.
61.—EARL
L . VANCE, M . , proxy for J. W.;
WALTER
E . WILLIAMS, M . , proxy for J. W.;
ARTHUR
CLINE, S . W . Adams No. 63.—GLENN
M . FRAZIER, proxy for S. W. 6J,.—ANDREW
MCPHERSON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Gardner No. 65.—BISHOP TURNER, i. W.
WathenaNo.
G . HAYDEN, M . , proxy for S. W.; R O Y
14
PROCEEDINGS
Burlington No. 46.—MARK PlERSON, S. W. Frankfort No. 67.—LEW
OF THE
February,
N . LATHROP, M . , proxy for J. W.; RAY S. A. LITEL, S . W . , proxy for M.;
ALLEN P.
HARTMAN, proxy for J. W. Hiram No. 68.—DEITRICH
A. HASHAGEN, M . ; JOSEPH F . SEYMOUR,
proxy for S. W.; LEONARD OHLHAUSEN, J. W. AUamont No. 69.—CHARLES Carbondale No.
T . SCOTT, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
70.—EVERETT
C . JACKSON,
M . , proxy for S. W.;
WALTER WIDAU, J. W. Huron
No. 72.—OLIVER J. W. .
M . ANDERSON, proxy for M., S. W. and •
Chetopa No. 73.—MARVIN
R . TETER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Mystic Tie No. 7Jf.—ERNEST
C . SKILES, M . , proxy for J. W.;
EDWIN
C. M C C R A Y , proxy for S. W. Wamego No. 75.—FRANK Erie No. 76.—ELVIN
A. PIXLBY, S . W . , proxy for M'. and J. W.
D . LAMB, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
White Cloud No. 78.—SULLIVAN
TRACY, M . , proxy for J. W.; RAYMOND
PRBBBLE, proxy for S. W. Corinthian No. 79.—JAMES L . MILLER, M . ; ROBERT D . OLIVER, S. W . ; D O L F B U E K , J. W. Zeredatha No. 80.—ROY
K . MAYBELL, M . ; FRANK MAILEN, proxy for
S. W.; RAYMOND A. HUMISTON, J. W. Doric No. 83.—WILLIAM
W . CARTER, M . ; CRILEY E . CORY, proxy for
S. W.; ALFRED C . EISELE, J. W. Jefferson No. 8i.—-JAMES
G . SHELDON, M . , proxy for J. W.;
CHARLES
PERRY, proxy for S. W. Sunflower No. 86.—GEORGE
R . PARROTT, M . ; HARRISON O . BYERS,
proxy for S, W.; GLEN THOMAS, J . W . Mankato No. 87.—EMERY
B . BEAM, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Eureka No. 88.—JAMES
C . EPLEY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Home No. 89.—CHARLES
DRUMM, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Golden Rule No. 90.—RUDY
F . NASH, M . ; WILLIAM C . WELLS, proxy
for S. W.; HOWARD H . HUFFMAN, proxy for J. W. Marysville No. 91.—ALBERT
F . HARTWICK, M . ; EDGAR C . BENNETT,
proxy for S. W.; FRANK J. OLSON, proxy for J. W. Devon No. 92.—CLIFFORD
A. REDMAN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Girard No. 93.—-RoY G. MESSENGER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Harmony No. 9U-—GEORGE F . HYNDS, M . , proxy for S. W.; JOHN L . EDWARDS, proxy for J. W. Constellation No. 95.—GEORGE A. VERCHERE, M . , proxy for S. W.; IRA M . F I N K , proxy for J. W.
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
15
Delaware No. 96.—CHESTER A. BARNARD, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Patmos No. 97.—WILBUR E . ROBBINS, proxy for M. and J. W.; TOM A. JACKSON, proxy for S. W. Benevolent No. 98.—WILLIAM K . PHILLIPS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Wichita No. 99.—RAYMOND G . SHELLEY, M . ; MONTE J. SWEET, S . W . ; JOHN N . F R E E , J. W. Prudence No. 100.—IJEO C . COXEY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Keystone No. 102.—JOHN W . HOWELL, J. W., proxy for M.; R O Y H . CLOSSEN, proxy for S. W. Cedar No. 103.—DEAN M . CARSON, M . , proxy for J. W.; EVERETT R . LLOYD, S. W . Frontier No. 101,.—HERMAN C . WORSCHOW, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Solomon City No. 105.—CHARLES C . AREY, M . , proxy for J. W.; GEORGE W. LANK, proxy for S. W. Fidelity No. 106.—JACOB I. MCMICKELL, M . , proxy for S. W.; JOSEPH W. LOEBEL, J . W . Fortitude No. 107.—LLOYD L . HUGHES, M . , proxy for J. W,; L E W I S W. GECKLER, proxy for S. W. Memphis No. 108.—FORREST
D . GREENFIELD, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Winfield No. 110.—OLIVER
E . BAILEY, M . , proxy for J. W.; WILLIAM
C. HILL, S . W . Hesperian No. 111.—AARON
E . STOVALL, M . , proxy for J. W.;
DICK
W. ANDERSON, S. W . St. John's No. 113.—JOHN
W . NEILSON, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Advance No. lilt-—WILLIAM
R . ICE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Parsons No. 117.—WILLIAM
L . HESTAND, M . , proxy for J. W.; CLAUDE
E . KINZIE, S . W . Cherokee No. 119.—JESSE
I. ESTER, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Halcyon No. 120.—ARTHUR
J. STARR, proxy for M. and S. W.;
MERVIN
L. CARSON, proxy for J. W. Clifton No. 122.—HoMER L. W E B E R , M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Re-public No. 123.—CHARLES
F . LAYTON, M . , proxy for J. W.; WALTER
H. POLLEY, proxy for S. W. Cawker City No. 125.—HENRY
BOESKOOL,
M . , proxy for S.
W.;
CHARLES VASTERLING, proxy for J. W. Meridian No. 126.—HARRY L . NEELAND, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Palestine No. 127.—ARTHUR M. HASTINGS, S . W .
E . ROBERTS, M . , proxy for J. W.; ALPHEUS
16
PROCEEDINGS OF THE
Munden No. 128.—RALPH
February
E . HANDLEY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W
Belleville No. 129.—OLIVER
E . RHOADES, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W
Equity No. 131.—EDWARD
F . HERATY, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W
Carson No. 132.—GEORGE
H . TAGGART, M . ; ROBERT H . STEPHENS
S. W.; PAUL E . PINKSTON, J. W. Crescent No. 133.—JOHN
W . RANKIN, M . ; EARL A. VOORHIS, S. W .
FRANK O . HERBERT, J. W . Clay Center No. 13U.—HARLEY
.
J. CLEVENGER, M . , proxy for S. W.
GEORGE S . SLADE, J. W. Lenexa No. 135.—ALTA
E . DAVIS, M . ; ROGER H . STEPHENSON, S. W .
WILBUR E . WALTERS, J. W. Vesper No. 136.—JESSE
W . LEWIS, proxy for M. and J. W.; WILLIAM
R . GRAHAM, proxy for S. W. Sedgwick No. 139.—AUGUST
H . MAEDER, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Reno No. lUO.—RUSSELL
H . MILLER, M . , proxy for S. W.;
GEORGE
M. R U S H , J. W. Signal No. HI.—CHARLES
L . ASHCRAFT, proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. Newton No. Ik^.—GEORGE •
D . DESCHNER, M . ; JOHN T . ALDERTON,
S. W.; CLAYTON A. YOUNG, J. W.
Gilead No. IH-—HARRY
R . MERRILL, S. W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
Mt. Vernon No. i i 5 . — F R A N K A. SLACK, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Ellsworth No. H6.—LEO
RUDD M C K I N N E Y ,
M . , proxy for S. W.;
FRANK STOUT, proxy for J. W. Center No. H.7.—WINFIELD
F . SHAHAN, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Wa-Keeney No. H8.—REN
A. HINSHAW, M . , proxy for J. W.; WILLIAM
E. DILLINGER, proxy for S. W. Thayer No. 1J,9.—HARVEY
G . LOWRANCE, proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. Wellington No. 150.—CLARENCE
J. W E L L S , proxy for M., S. W. and
J. w. Douglass No. 151.—NEIL
; B . ANTHONY, M . , proxy for S. W.; CLARENCE
E. M C K I N L E Y , proxy for J. W. Lebo No: 152.—GWILYM
R . EVANS, M . , proxy for S. W.; JOSEPH R .
EVANS, proxy for J. W. Lincoln No. 15i..—DENNIS
L . SHEETS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Haven No. 157.—JAY HILTON, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Active No. 158.—LESLIE
W . LONG, M . ; WALTER A. HOY, S . W . ;
GEORGE A. MCKINNEY, J. W. Robinson No. 159.—CHARLES Saqui No. 160.—GEOEGE
J. ELLIS, M . , proxy ior S. W. and J. W.
D . HOBBIE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
1927-28.
GRAND
Alma No. 161.—JAMBS
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
17
K . MCCLURE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Sabeth No. 162.—LOYD J. COBUN, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W. Atwood No. 161t.—SILAS R . HORTON, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Oxford No. 165.—MARSHALL
O . SWAIM, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Farmers No. 166.—ALBERT
V. SCHWARTZ, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Lamed No. 167.—EDWIN
E . JACOBS, M . , proxy for J. W.; BENJAMIN
H. SOOBY, S. W. Parkerville No. 168.—FRANK
W . PARKER, proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. Blue Rapids No. 169.—EDWARD Sterling No. 171.—FRANK
DOLEN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
E . ROSE, M . ; GEORGE H . SUTTON, proxy for
S. W.; ROY O. JOHNSON, proxy for J. W.
Belle Plaine No. 173.—JESSE J. W.
C . WALTON, proxy for M., S. W. and
Western Star No. 17U.—ARCHIE E . TILTON, M . ; L . GLENN WOLF, proxy for S. W.; ELTON L . POUNDS, proxy for J. W. Kirwin No. 175.—ARCHIE
R . COGSWELL, M . , proxy for J. W.; CHARLES
C. GOETZ, S. W. Prairie Queen No. 176.—GUY LITTON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Russell No. 177.—STEPHEN
C . HERRICK, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Burr Oak No. 178.—FRANK R . STANTON, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Mt.'Moriah No. 179.—LEWIS M . SCHRADER, proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. Bennington No. 180.—RICHARD
J. ARBUTHNOT, proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. Lenora No. 181.—CHARLES
E . PERSONETT, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Burrton No. 182.—CLAUDE
W . MCDAVITT, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Gaylord No. 183.—ROY F . SANTNER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Phillipsburg No. 18lt.—FRED W . WESTON, M . , proxy for S. W. and
. J. W. Hamlin No. 185.—DANIEL PFEIFFER, M . ; CLARENCE R . JONES, S . W . ; CHARLES T . EVANS, J. W. Mountain Slope No. 186.—HERMAN H . CLAUSSEN, M . , proxy for J. W.; OSCAR P. LOHOEFENER, proxy for S. W. Pittsburg No. 187.—WILLIAM
E . ROBERSON, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W.. Onaga No. 188.—HARRY
G . TOTTEN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
18
PROCEEDINGS
Newahcuba No. 189.—SAKFORD
OF THE
February,
S . SMITH, proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. Henri No. 190.—WALTER
G . DENHOLM, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Walnut Valley No. 191.—ROY
C . TAYLOR, M . ; GEORGE M . BYAL, proxy
for S. W.; PASCHAL W . LUNDY, proxy for J. W. Royal No. 192.—WILLIAM
D . SMITH, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Hartford No. 193.—MARVIN
J. LALONETTE, M . ; CHARLES B . SHULL,
S. W.; ELMER RICH, J. W. Galena No. 191f.—GEORGE
R . MCCULLAGH, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Hays No. 195.—-CLIFFORD R . MORRISON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Madison No. 196.—WESLEY
EUGENE TAYLOR, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Canton No. 197.—JOHN
J. EHMAN, M . ;
CHARLES W . HAGER, proxy
for S. W.; GEORGE E . BOOTH, J. W. Blue Hill No. 198.—LAWRENCE
GILBRBATH, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Norton No. 199.—HARRY V. KNAPP, M . , proxy for J. W.; JOHN J. RECHT, proxy for S. W. Anthony No. 200.—-EDGAR W . F O X , M . ; HARVEY 0 . DAVIS, proxy for S. W. and J. W. Mulvane No. 201.—THEODORE
C . CONKLIN, proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. Bel-phos No. 202.—ALVA S . ADAMS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Sumner No. 203.—CLARENCE
PECK, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Downs No. 201t.—JAMES O . HARRISON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Eminence
No. 205.—WILLIAM
MONTGOMERY,
M . , proxy for J. W.;
WILLIAM R . LOGAN, S. W . Harper No. 206.—IVAN
0 . BERG, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Brookville No. 209.—ERNEST
W . LINDQUIST, proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. Olive Branch No. 212.—JOHN
W . WILKINSON, M . , proxy for J. W.;
OBADIAH R . STILWELL, proxy for S. W. Twin Grove No. 213.—JAMES
HERBERT DRAKE, J. W., proxy for M. and
S. W. Walnut City No. 215.—THOMAS
E . GOUGH, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Corner Stone No. 219.—HARRY
L . PETERSON, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Lewis No. 220.—HARRY
L . BRIDGES, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
St. Bernard No. 222.—TOM STAUTH, M . ; CECIL E . DAVIS, S . W . ; JAMES M . AIKIN, J. W.
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
19
Joppa No. 223.—CHARLES F . SHRIVER, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Anchor No. 22k.—GERALD LLOYD TODD, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Siloam No. 225.—-B. HAROLD GROFF, M . ; DEAN S . SMITH, proxy for S. W.; WILLIAM A. HARSHBARGER, J. W.
Dirigo No. 226.—RAY W . MCKENZIB, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Vulcan No. 229.—ROY ROBINSON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Ninnescah No. 230.-^WILLIAM H . MCCLURE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Long Island No. 231.—^JENNINGS D . NEAR, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W. Greenleaf No. 232.—MAX L . STEELE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Clinton No. 233.—CHARLES W . RYAN, M . , proxy for J. W.; EDGAR L . GANN, proxy for S. W. Axtell No. 23^.—OSCAR W . OLSON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Garfield No. 235.—^FRED L . BIGELOW, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Meriden No. 236.—GEORGE L . JOHNSON, M . , proxy for J. W.'; CLEVELAND T. MARTIN, proxy for S. W.
Temple No. 237.—LEWIS T . COOK, M . , proxy for J. W.; ROBERT D . BAKER, proxy for S. W. Urhana No. 259.—JOHN A. EWBN, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Soldier No. 2^0.—MiLTON E. MAYER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Linwood No. 2Ifl.—CHARLES H . HARRIS, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Miltonvale No. 21f2.—WILLARD J. BROWN, M . , proxy for S. W.; GEORGE H. MOSS, proxy for J. W. Peace No. 2Jf3.—ALBERT YOUNG, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Waverly No. 2kk.—JACOB H . MOORE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. • Tyrian
No. 2^6.—E. L E E KEMPER, M . ; CARL H . ENGLAND, J. W.,
proxy for S. W. Whiting No. 250.—IRVING P. BELDEN, proxy for M. and S. W.; EDWARD B. PATTERSON, proxy for J. W. Galva No. 251.—GUY H . ASH, S. W . , proxy for M.; WALTER J. COLLINS, proxy for J. W. Stafford No. 252.—ROY 0 . GERE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Oakley No. 253.—HARRY B . WOOD, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Ionic No. 25If.—JAMES H . HAMMITT, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Lyra No. 256.—JESSE F . PYLB, proxy for M.; FRED R . COX, proxy for S. W.; WILLIAM S. PYLE, J. W. Westmoreland No. 257.—MELVIN
O . HILL, M . ; W . BERT HART, S. W . ;
CHARLES GRUTZMACHER, proxy for J. W.
Morton No. 258.—STEELE J. W.
R . NORTHCUTT, S. W . , proxy for M. and
20
PROCEEDINGS
Beattie No. 259.—JOSEPH
OF THE
February,
C . CHASE, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Mulberry No. 261.—ALBERT
CAMERON, M . ;
CHARLES B . BRAYMAN,
proxy for S. W. and J. W. Charity No. 263.—DELMAR Logan No. 26U.—FRANK Kilwinning
D . HOSLER, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
L . NICHOL, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
No. 265.—CHARLES
R . MAWDSLEY, proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. Mount
Zion No. 266.—CLARENCE S . MOYER, M . , proxy for S. W.; THOMAS A. CORKILL, proxy for J. W.
Moline No. 267.—Louis
.
H . CARVIN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Bourbon No. 268.—CLAUDE
F . CLEMMINGS, proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. Mistletoe No. 269.—KYLE
TRUBBLOOD, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Quenemo No. 270.—ELMER Armourdale
WILEY, S. W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
No. 271.—HAROLD
N . NICHOLS, M . , proxy for S. W.;
JAMES B . JEWELL, J. W. Kaw No. 272.—CAHL
G. RALSTON, M . ; HARRIS HARRINGTON, S . W . ;
RuFus S. CRAVENS, J. W. Unity No. 273.—HARRISON D . BURCHELL, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Webb No. 275.—HARRY L . F E B , proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Cosmos No. 278.—HARRY Antiquity
E . CROW, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
No. 280..—VICTOR L . OWENS, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Millbrook No. 281.—ALVIN
L . LAW, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Alpha No. 282.—-HARRY CRAGHBAD, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Preston No. 283.—ALLEN
G . CHAPLIN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Anthem No. 28i.—HARRY
C . SHARPE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Argonia No. 285.—HENRY
E . STEHLE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Oak No. 2S7.—ORRIN W . STORY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Cyrus No. 288.—WILLIAM R . WARING, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Emerald No. 289.—BARKLEY E^ WILLOUGHBY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Paradise No. 290.—HENRY S . THOMAS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Beulah No. 291.—WALTER
E . H O K E , proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Glasco No. 292.—MERTON
FLETCHER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Kiowa No. 293.—HENRY
W . ZENTZ, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W.
Glen Elder No. 29^.—RICHARD L . MOORE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Comanche No. 295.—JAMES H . ALLDERDICE, M . ; KARL G . BHRLICH, S. W.; J. LAWTON STANLEY, proxy for J. W.
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
Highland No. 296.—KARL J. W. Apollo No. 297.—CHARLES
OF KANSAS.
21
G . VAN SICKLE, M . , proxy for S. W. and A. BAUGHER, M . , proxy for J. W.;
ARTHUR
FAUTEUX, proxy for S. W. Samaria No. 298.—OTTO
DEISSROTH, M . ; ARTHUR JELLISON, proxy
for S. W.; ALEX ANSCHUTZ, proxy for J. W. Cable No. 299.—ARTHUR B. ELIOT, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Fargo No. 300.—ARTHUR J. BARRETT, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Hamilton No. 301.—PHIL
D . PIATT, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Gove City No. 302.—CLAUDE
THOMAS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Albert Pike No. 303.—VERNETTE
H . COBB, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Avon No. 305.—CHARLES
W . SCHARFF, M . ; GEORGE L . LIZER, S . W . ;
THOMAS L . ART, proxy for J. W. St. Thomas No. 306.—ARTHUR
A. HAMILL, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Kansas
No. 307.—THORNTON
D . SCOTT, proxy for M. and J. W.;
CHARLES S. FORBES, S . W . Alden No. 308.—RAYMOND
J. ENGEL, proxy for M.; LAWRENCE W .
FAIR, S. W . , proxy for J. W. Syracuse No. 309.—CHARLES R. DOLLINGS, M., proxy for S. W. and J. W. Naphtali No. 310.—LEO L . KLINE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W Hancock No. 311.—EDWARD
D . THURMAN, M . ; HARRY M . BAFFORD,
S. W.; RussEL P. REEDER, J. W. Santa Fe No. 312.—CORBIN
C . KIMBS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Severance No. 313.—LESLIE
L . RUDEBAUGH, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Virginia No. 315.—HENRY
C . PENNINGTON, M . , proxy for J. W.; BRUCE
B . STALNAKER, S . W . Coolidge No. 316.—CALVIN
C . R E E D , M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. .
Norcatur No. 317.—CHARLIE
C . CLELAND, S . W . , proxy for M. and
J. W. Wallace No. 31S.—LAWRENCE O . STANLEY, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Vermillion No. 320.—PETER
H . HYBSKMANN, M . , proxy for S. W. and .
J. W. Goodland No. 321.—LEONARD
A. THOMPSON, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Ben HUT No. 322.—JAMES A. MCCANLESS, M . ; ARTHUR R . ECKMAN, S. W.; CHARLES T. LAKIN, J. W.
22
PROCEEDINGS
Oneida No. 323.—ERNEST
OF THE
February,
E . MOSER, M . , proxy for S. W.; RALPH J.
WOOD, J. W. La Harpe No. 325.—JOHN
E . GARVEY, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Horton No. 326.—JESSE R. FRANKLIN, M.; CLYDE M . MCMANIGAL, S. W.; OSCAR L . KISTLER, proxy for J. W. Hoyl No. 327.—JEFF
WILLIAMS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Gypsum City No. 328.—JONATHAN
SCHMITTER, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Arcadia No. 329.—WILLIAM
A. HARRIS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
La Crosse No. 330.—RODNEY
TORREY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Rosedale No. 333.—THOMAS
M . SWINNEY, M . ; RALPH N . BOWSER,
proxy for S. W.; WILLIAM E . SAUNDERS, proxy for J. W. Oak Hill No. 33k.—WILLIAM
F . GUNTBR, proxy for, M., S. W. and
J. W. Allen No. 335.—ARTHUR
E . BATES, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W
Formoso No. 336.—CHARLES
LISTON DYAS, M . ; EARL E . BROWN,
S. W.; DONALD K . BALCH, proxy for J. W. Frederick No. 337.—HARRY
B . MUXLOW, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W.
Kincaid No. 338.—ESTEL
W . DIXON, S. W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
Leoii No. 3U0.—WILLIAM
C . DICKEY, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Holyrood No. 3U3.—JAMES M . BAKER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Ashlar No. 31tlt.—BLAINE
DODSON, M . ; AUGUST E . SCHATTENBURG,
S. W.; STEVEN A. SARGENT, J. W. Moundridge No. 31)6.—WALTER
P. REGIER, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Spivey No. 3U7.—ARTHUR H . HUFPORD, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Hoxie.No.
31(8.—HARLEY
C . HUMPHREY, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Olive No. 350.—JOHN
V. FRALICK, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Scammon No. 351.—JAMES
MOON, S. W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
Horace No. 352.—WILLARD
E . FERRELL, M . , proxy for S. W.; ALBERT
E. SMITH, J. W. Marquette No. 353.—RAY A. DRESSLER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Wellsville No. 356.—VERYL
C . SHEPPARD, M . ; CARL G . D E T A R , S . W . ;
DAVID W . BATDORF, J. W. Alia
Vista No. 357.—MAURICE
HARDENBROOK, M . ; CARL H . M C -
LAUGHTEN, S . W . ; F R E D H . DODGE, proxy for J. W. Jennings
No. 360.—CARLETON
F . MELLOR, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Geneseo No. 361.—CLARENCE
J. W.
E . BARNUM, M . , proxy for S. W. and
1927-28.
GRAND
Cuba No. 362.—CHARLIE
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
23
J. HOUDEK, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Powhattan No. 363.—KEEVER
E . WHARTON, proxy for M.; CECIL R .
FLETCHER, proxy for S. W. and J. W. Valley Center No. 361t.—CHARLES W . RICKARD, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Baling No. 365.—GEORGE
W. HOBBS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Bonner Springs No. 366.—HOUSTON
E . BOAZ, M . , proxy for J. W.;
JOHN C . DAVID, S. W . Plains No. 367.—CLAYTON
GEISINGER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Siohrville No. 368.—AUBREY
T . STEWART, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Roger E. Sherman No. 369.—GEORGE
W . JEWELL, M . , proxy for J. W.;
GEORGE "W. JOHNSON, S . W . Maple Hill No. 370.—WARNER
ADAMS, M . ; J A M E S ' W .
THOMPSON,
proxy for S. W.; HOWARD ADAMS, proxy for J. W. Macksville No. 371.—CLAUDE E . COMMONS, M . ; FRED MCREYNOLDS, S. W.; JOSEPH F . DEMAIN, proxy for J. W. Morrill No. 373.—GLENN E . FAUCETT, M . , proxy for J. W.; RAY H . MICKEY, proxy for S. W. Dwight No. 371.—HENRY W.-SHAPER, M . ; JOHN B . OLSON, proxy for S. W.; ROY MORGAN, J. W. Delavan No. 375.—MARVIN
L . HODSON, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Grand View No. 376.—GuY E. WARNER, M . , proxy for S. W.; THOMAS E . VINCENT, J. W . Zenda No. 378.—RALPH
M . HARDER, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Buffalo No. 379.—ELIJAH
L . FOLLMBR, M . ; WILLIAM M . FINLEY,
proxy for S. W.; FRANCIS E . SALE, J. W. Grainfield No. 381.—MERRITT Wilsey No. 382.—ORAN
YALE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
L . EDWARDS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
McDonald No. 383.—HARRY
E . ARCHER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Protection No. 38J,.—JESSE J. EDMONSTON, M . , proxy for J. W.; PAUL F. CRUM, S . W . Piper No. 385.—GEORGE A. STEPHENSON, M . , proxy for J. W.; JULIUS HARVEY POULSEN, S. W . Emmett No. 387.—-W. RUSSELL COX, M . , proxy for S. W.; CARL W . PAGE, J. W. Spearville No. 388.—CORWIN H. MCMAHAN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Freeport No: 389.—GRANT
BURTON, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Natoma No. 390.—WILLIAM
W H I T E , J. W., proxy for M. and S. W-
Sylvia-No. 391.—ROBERT
J. YUST, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
Mayetta No. 393.—EDSON
J. LuNGER, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
24
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Coats No. 39]t.—CARL F . HERTLEIN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Wakefield No. 396.—ROY A. WOODBURY, M . , proxy for J. W.; SAMUEL F. HEINEN, proxy for S. W. Lindsborg No. 397.—DAVID M . ELVING, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Mullinville No. 399.—JOSEPH W . COSSELL, M . , proxy for J. W.; ABRAHAM PETERS, proxy for S. W.
Melody No. 1,00.—W. GUY SNEDAKER, M . , proxy for J. W.; WILLIAM H. RAMSEY, S. W .
Wakarusa No. 1,02.—JUNIUS H . FOLTZ, proxy for M.; WAYLAND B . PERRY, proxy for S. W.; NEVIN M . FOLTZ, J. W.
Benedict No. 1,03.—EBNER EVANS, M . , proxy for J. W.; HUBERT I. KIRK, proxy for S. W. Kensington N6. 1,05.—JEROME H . SCOTT, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Hugoton No. 1,06.—HUGH S. SMILEY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Scranton No. 1,07.—HUGH R . COFPMAN, M . ; EUGENE M . YOUNG, proxy for S. W.; WILLIAM URISH, J. W.
Arma No. 1,08.—JOE MOROZZO, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Haviland No. 1,09.—PHILIP H . PHILLIPS, M . , proxy for J. W.; EAKL H. SWAIN, S . W .
Quinter No. 1,10.—CECIL CALVERT, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Climax No. 1,11.—JOHN H . LUNSFORD, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Wilmore No. 1,12.—-HARVEY MANAHAN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Ensign No. 1,13.—CLARENCE J. LUND, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Morland No. 1,11,.—JOHN LEWIS BLAZIER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. ' Perry No. 1,15.—WILLIAM
E , CAIN, proxy for M.; ARTHUR C . ELSWICK,
S. W.; JAMES LEGER, proxy for J. W.
King David No. 1,16.—WILLIAM H . POWELL, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Sharon Springs No. 1,17.—GuY EMERY WOODHOUSE, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Delia No. 1,19.—CHARLES E . MITCHELL, M . , proxy for S. W.; ROY W . LEWELLING, J. W. Lecornpton No. 1,20.—GEORGE
F . BAHNMAIER,
M.;
BENJAMINE O .
KELLOGG, S. W . ; FREDRICK B . HILL, proxy for J. W.
Harveyville No. 1,21.—LEO L . SHAW, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Elkhart No. 1,22.—HARRY W . ROBERTS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Selden No. 1,23.—ORLAND E . HANSHAW, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Claflin No. 1,21,.—GROVER C . GILSTRAP, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Turner No. 1,25.—JOSEPH N . HEARIN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Richmond No. 1,26.—LEE E . KASERMANN, M . , proxy for J. W.; DAVID P. GRAHAM, proxy for S. W.
1927-2S.
GRAND
Burdick No. J,29.—FRED
LODGE
OF K.ANSAS.
25
B . JOHNSON, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W.
Goff No! hSO.—WILLIAM
H . FUND, M . , proxy for S. W.;
HARRY K .
BROWN, J. W. Deerfield No. J,32.—WILLIS Bestor G. Brown
E . BENJAMIN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
No. J,33.—ELMER
C . BEEZLEY,
M . ; GEORGE B .
WiNGARD, proxy for S. W.; CHARLES HIEBSCH, proxy for J. W. Rosalia No. U3U-—ALBERT E . ANDERSON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Ulysses No. U35.—HARRY
H . CALDWELL, M . ; RICHARD H . JOYCE.
proxy for S. W.; CLAIR BANKS, proxy for J. W. Overland Park No. J,36.—E. LEROY KNOX, M . , proxy for J. W.; HARVEY C. PHILLIPS, S. W . West Gate No. USS.—GEORGE T. WRIGHT, M . ; WILLIAM C . FRYE, S. W . ; LACY C . HAYNES, J. W. Bendena No. UW-—ROBERT
A. MYERS, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Rexford No. ItUZ.—HARRY E . HANSHAW, M . , proxy for S. W. anci J. W. Kanorado No. H3.—JESSE Stanley No. Hi-—OTTO Hutchinson
M . HARMON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. E . PERRY, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
No. Uli5.—WILLIAM
E . EAGLEN, M . ; OLIN H . TAYLOR,
S. W.; WILLIAM D . P. CAREY, J. W. Satanta No. J,i6.—CHARLES
S. RENO, M . , proxy for J. W.;
PRESSLEY
M. PiNER, proxy for S. W. Kingsdown No. 1,1,7.—VELMA S . HALEY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Grinnell No. UU8.—EDGAR J. PETERSON, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. RECAPITULATION.
Grand Officers present Past Elective Grand Officers present Past Masters present
15 12 259
(Exclusive of any Grand or Past Elective Grand Officers or District Deputy Grand Masters.)
District Deputy Grand Masters present Representatives of Lodges present
50 519
{Exclusive of any Grand or Past Elective Grand Offlcars. District Deputy Grand Masters, or Past Masters.
Total representation in Grand Lodge Grand Representatives present Number of Lodges represented Number of Lodges not represented Total.number of Lodges on rolls Fraternally submitted, ROBERT H . MONTGOMERY, ALVA L . SWBARINGEN, RICHARD W . EVANS, •
...855 51 354 94 448 ROY G . SHEARER, GUY W . BROWN, Committee.
26
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
STANDING COMMITTEES.
The M.'.W.-. Grand Master announced the appointment of the following revised list of Committees: On Credentials.—ROBERT H . MONTGOMERY, N O . 63, Oswego; ALVA L . SWEARINGEN, N O . 272, Kansas City; RICHARD W . EVANS, N O . 222, Dodge City; ROY G . SHEARER, N O . 98, Abilene; GUY W . BROWN, NO. 145, Beloit. On Reports of Grand Officers.—ELMER F . STRAIN, NO. 51, Topeka; JOHN- W . NEILSON, N O . .113, Concordia;
FRANK E . DAVIS, N O . 5
(residence, Kansas City, Mo.); HERBERT R . HULL, NO. 175, Kirwin; LuciAN L. CONSTANT, NO. 173, Belle Plaine. On Finance and Property.—EARL
T . PYLE, NO. 134, Clay Center;
MOSES H . COLE, N O . 206, Harper;
RICHARD H . CRAVENS, N O . 60,
Salina; HERBERT E . JULIEN, NO. 19, Olathe; JOHN DAVIS, NO. 129, Belleville. ' On Jurisprudence.—ELRICK C . COLE, N O . 15, Great Bend; JOHN MCCULLAGH, N O . 194, Galena; OTTO R . SOUDERS, N O . 99, Wichita; GEORGE O . FOSTER, N O . 6^ Lawrence; CLAUDE O . CONKEY, N O . 142,
Newton. On Chartered Lodges and Lodges U. D.—ELLSWORTH B . SEWELL, JR., N O . 51, Topeka; JOHN DAVIS, No. 129, Belleville; HAROLD T . ENGLISH^ N o . 445, Hutchinson. On Correspondence.—ALBERT K . WILSON, No. 51, Topeka. On Necrology.—FRANCIS
M . PEARL, NO. 35, Hiawatha.
SPECIAL COMMITTEES. On Revision of Laws.—ALBERT K . WILSON, N O . 51, Topeka; ELRICK C . COLE, NO. 15, Great Bend. On History of Grand Lodge.—ALBERT K . WILSON, NO. 51, Topeka.
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
27
GRAND MASTER'S ADDRESS..
M.-.W.-. CHARLES N . FOWLER delivered the following address, which, on motion of M.-.W.'. CHARLES A. LoucKS, was referred to the Committee on Eeports of Grand Officers: To The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas: BRETHREN:
How vain and presumptuous it is on my part to attempt to add anything new to a subject as old as Masonry, one upon which the most profound philosophers and scholars have written throughout centuries. It is not my purpose to speak of the origin or great antiquity of this age-old institution. The fact that it has existed for so many centuries does not interest us so much as do the' reasons for its existence. What concerns us most of all is its future and how long will it continue. What a vision those patriarchs and philosophers of old must have had when the institution of Freemasonry was born! Founded as it is upon a solid rock, protected by Landmarks unchanging and unchangeable. Masonry is an institution in which men of every country, sect and opinion may meet together in a common cause and walk hand in hand as true brethren. Masonry has no creed. As an organization it is not concerned in the political, religious, philosophical, social, educational or scientific beliefs of its members. Masonry gives . to every man the right to think on these things as his conscience may dictate. It not only gives him the right to think for himself, but tries to impress upon him that it is his duty to do so. It does, however, require a belief in the one GOD, Supreme Ruler of the universe, the brotherhood of man, and the immortality of the soul. Masonry is not a religion but is distinctly religious. It teaches its initiates in the most impressive manner in its power by symbols, ceremonies and lectures that he owes a duty to GOD and his fellowman; that his soul is immortal. If these teachings are accepted in the proper spirit, men will think and investigate for themselves, and when men think earnestly they are led to seek for truth and, by the aid of that Great Light in Masonry, come to know their full duty to GOD, their duties and obligations to their fellowmen in this life, and what preparation is necessary for life eternal. Freemasonry has, during all the centuries, been content to build on the solid rock foundation laid by our forefathers and continue to impart its noble and sublime principles of Faith, Hope and Charity taught by the theological ladder which JACOB in his vision saw ascend-
28
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
ing from Earth to Heaven; the tenets of our profession, brotherly love, relief and truth, the cardinal virtues, temperance, fortitude, prudence and justice, and the erection of that great temple in which we live, and which upon its completion becomes a spiritual building in which we shall forever dwell. By and through the teachings of the institution and its mighty and silent influences. Masons always and everywhere have been the foe of tyranny and usurpation of power, the defenders of justice, right and truth, and the enemies of intolerance, oppression, bigotry, fanaticism and all the other evil influences that oppress and crush humanity. Our great Order has never in all its history cast a shadow upon a home, never wounded a human heart, and never wronged a human soul. It is never deaf to the cry of the needy, never blind to the wants of the deserving, and its broad and noble heart promptly responds to the call of the erring or a cry for help from any human soul. It is one of the mighty forces today working for the upbuilding of the race of men. I t stands for the brotherhood of man in its highest and noblest sense, and for the home around which cluster the tenderest and best sentiments of the human heart. It is like the spirit of liberty enlightening the world, the fountains in the desert watering a favored spot of earth and imparting fertility; like the temple of truth standing foursquare to every wind that blows, its every act and principle all in harmony with the highest plans of human thought, aspiration and life. Through all its history, it has pursued the even tenor of its ways with charity to all and malice toward none. It has left a record of nothing but benefits and blessings wherever it has touched a life, a community, a state or a nation. Why then this cry for so-called modernism? Are we not satisfied with the glorious history of the past? Is it not enough that we continue to build upon the original foundation so carefully and wisely laid? The safety valve, the bulwark of this great institution during all the ages has been that we have adhered strictly to the beaten path and turned neither to the right nor left, always of one mind and one purpose whatever might be our belief or creed; always adhering strictly to the Landmarks, usages and customs of the Fraternity upon which all men of every country, sect and opinion agree. The fall of nations, religions, political parties and organizations can be summed up in three words, "differences in opinion". The breakers are just ahead. The trend of Masonry is toward those things that do not concern Masonry: the turning aside from the original plan of Masonry, the sponsoring of outside organizations which presume to build on the Masonic institution; the approval or disapproval of things that do not concern us as an organization; the tendency to drift Into political or religious questions, and numerous other matters upon which men differ in opinion. These things are incompatible with the purposes of our institution, and are the rocks upon which we will become shipwrecked if we continue to drift with the tide and the general tendency
1927-2S.
GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS.
29
of the present day which seems to be a desire for something different, for a change from the old to so-called modern in every activity of life; in government, religion, education and society. It is almost astounding to note in some jurisdictions the trend away from the original plan of Masonry. Let us, my brethren, in this jurisdiction never stray from the straight and narrow path which leads straight down the annals of time from the organization of our beloved institution to a never ending eternity. If we do this. Masonry will still survive when all other organizations now in existence, before which questions come iipon which men differ in opinion, have faded.from the memory of men. NECROLOGY.
During one short year 992 of our brethren in this jurisdiction have been called to eternal rest. Their places are vacant and many hearts are full of sorrow. It is hard to reconcile our sorrow and console ourselves with the thought that we must submit to the will of Him who doeth all things well. The Mason's faith in GOD and belief in the immortality of the soul should give him strength beyond what the mere stoic possess and enable him to say, " T h y will, oh my Father, and not mine be done". All members of our official household are still permitted to labor and serve. We are again, however, forcibly reminded that we are born to die, and that death regards not one's honors in this life. M.-. W.'. CHARLES J W E B B , Grand Master in 1900, died January 3, 1928; M.-. W.'. HENRY FREEMAN MASON, Grand Master in 1908,
died May 4, 1927. The designs upon the trestle board of their lives were completed. The Master said, "Come thou good and faithful servant. Thou hast been faithful over a few things I will make thee ruler over many". And heeding His summons, they wrapped the drapery of their couch about them and lay down to pleasant dreams. And I heard a voice from Heaven saying'unto me "Write, Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from henceforth: yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors, and their works do follow them." And one of the Elders said unto me "Who are these that are arrayed in white robes, and whence came they? " And I said, "Venerable thou knowest. These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb; therefore are they before the Throne of GOD and serve Him day and night in His Temple and He shall lead them to the living springs of Truth and GOD, even our GOD, shall wipe away all tears from their eyes." A suitable memorial has been prepared by the Committee on Necrology.
30
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
INSTALLATION OF GRAND SWORD BEARER.
Since W / . Brother WILLIAM E . CAIN of Perry Lodge No. 415 was not installed at the Annual Communication, a commission was issued March 5, 1927, to District Deputy Grand Master CLARENCE E. BIRCH, authorizing him to install Brother CAIN. This duty was performed by Brother BIRCH May 17th, in Perry Lodge No. 415. LODGES CONSTITUTED.
At the last Annual Communication charters were granted to Antiquity Lodge No. 280 at Chapman, Kansas, and Grinnell Lodge No. 448, located at Grinnell, Kansas. These lodges were duly constituted. This subject will be reported in full by the Grand Secretary. LODGES UNDER DISPENSATION.
Letters of Dispensation for the forming of a lodge at Whitewater,^ Kansas, were issued under date of May 16, 1927, to PAUL ROSS, Master, L E W I S S . FOSTER, Senior Warden and RALPH C . MERTZ,
Junior Warden. tary's report.
Further details will be shown by the Grand SecreAPPOINTMENT o r GRAND ORATOR.
The appointment of a Grand Orator is a matter of concern t o the Grand Master. To secure the services of one who has the ability and who has made an extensive study of Masonry is no small task. The annual oration is part of the records of the Grand Lodge and should be of such a character as to uphold the dignity of the institution. I have appointed Brother LARKIN B . BOWERS, President of the Kansas Wesleyan University, Salina, Kansas, who will deliver the oration. GRAND REPRESENTATIVES
APPOINTED.
The usual appointments of Grand Representatives near other Grand Lodges have been made. I have also recommended a number of brethren for appointments as representatives of other Grand Lodges near this Grand Lodge, full record of which will appear in the Grand Secretary's report. REVISION OF LAWS.
At the last Annual Communication the Grand Master was authorized to appoint a Committee on Revision of Laws. I therefore appointed the following brethren: R.-. W.-. ALBERT K . WILSON and M.-. W.-. ELRICK C . COLE.
. This committee has- done much work during the year and will submit a partial report at this Communication. It is not possible at this time t o submit revised By-Laws on account of amendments t o
1927-28.
GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS.
31
the Constitution. I therefore recommend that this committee be continued until the work of revision is completed. As this committee has under consideration all necessary changes in our laws, I deem it unnecessary to recommend any changes in laws at this time. SPECIAL DISPENSATIONS.
A total of eighty-four Special Dispensations were issued during the year, and are classified as follows: To confer degrees waiving statutory time, 42; to elect and install officers account illegal election, 4; to hold election on date other than time of Annual Communication, 2; to elect and install officers account vacancies, 36. The amount collected has been paid to the Grand Secretary. CORNER-STONES.
Special Communications of the Grand Lodge were called for the purpose of laying corner-stones. Full record of these Communications will be shown under the heading of "Special Communications" in the printed Proceedings. March 22, 1927, First Presbyterian Church, Liberal, Kansas. April 7, 1927, Masonic Temple, Jetmore, Kansas. May 24, 1927, Masonic Temple, Ottawa, Kansas. July 12, 1927, Asbury Protestant Hospital, Salina, Kansas. August 4, 1927, School Building, Medicine Lodge, Kansas. August 9, 1927, School Building, Leon, Kansas. September 5, 1927, Hospital, Dodge City, Kansas. September 28, 1927, Court House, Coldwater, Kansas. December 28, 1927, Court House, Cimarron, Kansas. I am under obligation to W.". Brother HARVEY 0 . DAVIS, who was
in charge of the ceremony at Medicine Lodge; to R.". W.'. Brother FERRIS M . HILL, at Leon, Dodge City and Coldwater, Kansas, and to M.'. W.". CHARLES A. LOUCKS, at Cimarron, Kansas. DEDICATIONS.
On October 20, 1927, the Masonic Temple at Jetmore, Kansas, was dedicated with ancient ceremonies, M.-. W.\ ELRICK C . COLE
acting as Grand Master. On October 27, 1927, the Masonic Temple at Salina, Kansas, was dedicated by me. This ceremony was a great personal pleasure, this being my home city and the temple upon which the Craft have labored more than seven years and of which I have been the Secretary of the Building Association. To the Masons of northwest Kansas this was a joyful occasion, and this beautiful building stands as a monument to their loyalty and generosity, and is the admiration of all who behold it.
32
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SURVEY OF LODGES.
During the year a survey of lodges was made. Much valuable information was assembled for the purpose of record. This information was secured through a Special Report placed in the hands of the District Deputies. This report contained sixty-five questions covering such subjects as blanks, records, files, deposits, funds, lodge rooms, rent, insurance, taxes, ownership, indebtedness, bonds, mortgages, fees, dues, by-laws, monitors, history of lodges, and many other matters of importance. This data has been tabulated and is now in the hands of the Grand Secretary for record and reference. I shall only refer to a few of these subjects. The report shows the funds of 9 lodges not kept in the name of the lodge; 57 not using standard form of warrant; 13 Secretaries do. not turn over funds promptly to Treasurer as required by law; 9 Secretaries deposit funds in their own name in violation of the law; 1 Treasurer keeps funds in his own account. 214 lodges rent halls in which to hold meetings. The amount of taxes paid in 1927 was $52,175.00. The report shows 1802 life or honorary members. Dues charged: 1 Lodge $ 1 50 27 Lodges 2 00 1 Lodge 2 30 1 Lodge 2 40 37 Lodges 2 50 1 Lodge 2 60 3 Lodges 2 75 1 Lodge 2 80 123 Lodges 3 00 1 Lodge 3 25 21 Lodges 3 50 1 Lodge 3 60 1 Lodge 3 75 73 Lodges 4 00 1 Lodge 4 50 106 Lodges 5 00 1 Lodge 5 25 22 Lodges 6 00 1 Lodge 7 00 1 Lodge 8 00 2 Lodges 9 00 3 Lodges 10 00 20 lodges no record. It is almost beyond belief to know that after years and years of instruction and urging on the part of the Grand Secretary, every Grand Master and the District Deputies, there are still Treasurers and Secretaries who persist in violating the laws of the Grand Lodge in the matter of turning over funds to the Treasurer,
1027-28.
GBAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
33
keeping funds in the name of the lodge and paying them out on standard form of warrant. Masters of all lodges should inform themselves as to how funds are handled and if not in accordance with the law it is their duty to see that they are, even to reporting any violations to the Grand Master when necessary. Violation of these laws might become a serious matter in adjusting a loss with the Bond Company should one occur. OFFICIAL VISITS.
I have received many kind invitations to visit lodges, and, as far as possible, have accepted, and, without exception, have been shown every courtesy. One of the pleasures connected with the office of Grand Master is the visits he makes among the lodges. However, the executive duties of the office, together with visits he is called upon to make in an official capacity, make it almost impossible to enjoy the privilege of visiting lodges other than where necessity demands his presence. I wish to express my sincere thanks to each and every lodge which extended me an invitation to visit them. • REQUESTS TO CONFER DEGREES.
The usual requests from other jurisdictions to confer degrees upon accepted candidates as a courtesy have been received, and, in every case, gladly complied with as have all requests made by this jurisdiction to confer degrees upon our candidates, for which I hereby express my thanks. RULING.
Suspensions for Non-Payment of Dues. It has come to my attention that there have been many cases of illegal suspensions for non-payment of dues during the year 1926. This is mostly caused by a misunderstanding and misinterpretation of Sections 124 and 125 of the Grand Lodge laws, which laws are not sufficiently explicit. This situation has made it necessary for me to make a ruling covering this subject. By-Law 124 of the Grand Lodge laws provides as follows: "Lodge Dues—Duly of Secretary.—The Lodge dues shall be payable annually, unless oftener required by the By-Laws, at the Stated Communication next preceding St. John's Day in December. N o t less than thirty days before such Stated Communication, the Secretary shall notify each merhber of the amount of his Lodge dues for the current year, and any arrears for previous years, by mailing a notice, under seal of t h e Lodge, in a sealed envelope with return address thereon, to each member. At the Stated Communication first above mentioned, the Secretary shall report the name and address of each member then in arrears for Lodge dues. This report shall show the arrearages by years, and the aggregate sum owing by each."
34
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
This By-Law clearly shows the duty of the Secretary. By-Law , 125 provides: "Lodge Dues—Suspension.—A member, in arrears for one year's Lodge dues, shall be deemed guilty of neglect of his Masonic duty, and, by a two-thirds vote of the members present at any Stated Communication of his Lodge, may be suspended from all the rights and privileges of Masonry, and when any member shall be in arrears for two or more years it shall be the duty of the Lodge to take action and suspend or excuse him: Provided, however. That no member shall be suspended for the non-payment of dues until he shall have had thirty days' notice of such intended action from the Secretary, under the order and seal of the Lodge, by personal service or by registered letter mailed to him at his last known post office address, the registry receipt or returned letter to be evidence of sufficient service. Such order shall be made within sixty days after the Stated Communication next preceding St. John's Day in December." Under these Grand Lodge By-Laws, any member two years in arrears for dues at the time of the Annual Communication in December must be served with lawful notice. Form " N " , within sixty days from the date of the Annual Communication. The member shall have thirty days' notice from the date of mailing Form " N " in which to pay his dues, and Form " N " should specify the first Stated Communication after the expiration of the thirty days from the date of mailing Form"N" as the date on which the lodge will take action. While By-Law 125 does not specifically so state, it is a well established fact and custom of jurisprudence to analyze the purpose and intent of the authority which framed any particular statute. The purpose and intent of the authority framing this statute based on the second notice, together with long established custom, makes it imperative t h a t the lodge take action at the first Stated Communication after the expiration of the thirty days' notice. It is therefore ruled: "Within sixty days after the Annual Communication, lawful notice must be given each member who is two years or more in arrears for dues. This notice (Form " N " ) must be served in person or mailed by registered letter to the last known post office address of such member. Such notice must specifically state the date on which action will be taken by the lodge, which date shall be the first Stated Communication after the expiration of the thirty days from the date of mailing or serving such lawful notice. Suspension for non-payment of dues at any other time is illegal and members so suspended shall be restored to the roll of members." This ruling applies to all cases of suspension for non-payment of dues in 1926, where such suspension does not come within this interpretation of the law. Advancement—Status of Membership. JOHN D . O ' B R I E N was made an Entered Apprentice March 3, 1924,
in Burlington Lodge No. 77 of Burhngton, Colorado. He subsequently moved to Goodland, Kansas. A request was made by the
1927-28.
GBAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
35
lodge at Burlington, through the proper procedure, for Goodland Lodge No. 321 to confer the Fellow Craft and Master Mason degrees on their Brother O'BRIEN as a courtesy. Petition for advancement was made in the usual form, the brother regularly elected, and the Fellow Craft degree conferred. It appears some time elapsed before Brother O'BRIEN received his Master Mason degree, and during the interim he asked for and received a Fellow Craft dimit from Burlington Lodge No. 77, which procedure is authorized by the Grand Lodge of Colorado. The Master Mason degree was later, conferred by Goodland Lodge No. 321, based on the original petition for advancement, accompanied by the formal request issued by Burlington Lodge. Burlington Lodge was so notified, but they refused to recognize Brother O'BRIEN as a member of their lodge, claiming that all connection with that lodge terminated with the issuance of the dimit, which action was confirmed by the Grand Master of Colorado. Based on the above, and in view of the fact that the Grand Master of Colorado fias refused to set aside the action of Burlington Lodge in granting a dimit while a formal request to a lodge in another Grand Jurisdiction was pending, and, in justice to Brother O'BRIEN, I made the following ruling: That while our Grand Lodge does not authorize the issuance of a so-called dimit to Entered Apprentices or Fellow Crafts, such a dimit partakes of the nature of a "Waiver of Jurisdiction", which comes within the province of our law, that in this case the dimit in question served the purpose of a "Waiver of Jurisdiction", and that Brother O'BRIEN was therefore a member of Goodland Lodge from the date he received his third degree. DISCIPLINE.
Washington Lodge No. 5—Active Lodge No. 158, Atchison. Soon after my election as Grand Master, reports came to me that a controversy of long standing existed between certain members of Washington Lodge No. 5 and Active Lodge No. 158 of Atchison, Kansas. After much correspondence with those interested on both sides of the controversy, I became fully convinced that the trouble was of a personal nature, one in which the members as a whole were not interested, and not one of a Masonic character. However, it had grown to such proportions that the brethren of these lodges began to take an active interest. Masonry in the lodges at Atchison was beginning to suffer, and some action must be taken. It is unnecessary here to go into detail in regard to this matter. The District Deputy Grand Master, R.-.W.". Brother SAMUEL W . CONNOR, feeling that on account of his connection with this unfortunate affair, his usefulness to the Grand Lodge in the capacity of District
36
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Deputy Grand Master had ceased, on June 24th requested that he be relieved of his duties. This was accordingly done on June 25th. On July 1st, I ordered the two lodges interested to meet in Special Communication, Wednesday evening, July'6th, at which Communication I should visit them. I also requested the Deputy Grand Master, R.-. W.-. F E R R I S M . H I L L , and the Grand Senior Warden, R.-. W.;.
GEORGE F . BEEZLEY, to be present on that occasion. After consultation with those- interested, we came to the conclusion that all attempts at reconciliation would be of no avail, and that the interests of Masonry in general, and the lodges at Atchison in particular, demanded that some definite action be taken. I therefore exercised the Grand Master's prerogative. No. 16, under the Constitution, declared a vacancy in the office of Secretary of Washington Lodge No. 5, and of Master and Secretary of Active Lodge No. 158, ordered an election to fill these vacancies, and installed the new officers. All correspondence covering this subject has been preserved and will be placed in the hands of the proper committee. Master, Shawnee Lodge No. 5^. In the course of correspondence made necessary by conditions existing among certain members of Shawnee Lodge No. 54, I received a letter written by W.". FEED A. MITCHELL, Master of that lodge, under date of June 17th. In this letter language was used of such character as plainly to constitute contumacy and contempt for constituted authority. To a great degree it is immaterial who the individual may. be occupying the office of Grand Master of Masons of Kansas. Individuals will come and go, but the dignified position of Grand Master will remain and that position must be treated with courtesy by all Master Masons. The present Grand Master holds no personal enmity toward Brother MITCHELL, and in order that no injustice might be done, an opportunity was offered him in a letter from me dated July 12th, of making due apology, or of being cited to appear before this Annual Communication. This letter was treated with silent contempt. Therefore on November 14th, Brother MITCHELL was notified to appear at this Annual Communication on February 22nd then and there to be heard and make answer to the citation of the Grand Master in accordance with Section 3, Article VIII, of the Constitution. Removal of Secretary of Moline Lodge No. 267. On receipt of reliable information that the Secretary of Moline Lodge No. 267, Brother HARRY E . LONG, had left for parts unknown, taking with him the funds of the lodge, I removed him from office and issued a dispensation authorizing the election and installation of a Secretary.
1927-28.
-
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
.
37
CHARTER ARRESTED.
M.\ W.'. JOHN W . NEILSON, in his address, made reference to long existing dissension among members of Shawnee Lodge No. 54, of Shawnee, Kansas. The conditions existing in this lodge are of long standing and have been a source of worry and anxiety to those in authority for several years, almost exhausting the patience of several Grand Masters. I have been personally in touch with the situation for several years, and was present last year with Grand Master NEILSON at a meeting of the members of this lodge, when solemn pledges were made to work together in peace and harmony. It was the hope that all differences were settled and forever forgotten, but, alas, it was not to be. Early in the year trouble broke out anew. Faith is lost in sight, hope ended in disappointment, the patience of the Grand Master became exhausted. Believing it for the best interests of Masonry, and deeming it a waste of time and effort to labor longer with the members of this lodge for peace and harmony, I, accordingly, on March 24th, ordered R.-. W.'. HERBERT E . JULIEN, District Deputy Grand Master, for . the Fifth District, to proceed to Shawnee and arrest the charter of Shawnee Lodge No. 54. On March 28th, Brother JULIEN performed this duty, and placed the property and funds in the hands of Brother CRIST NIEMAN of the Shawnee State Bank. The charter, seal and official ciphers were transmitted to the Grand Secretary. A financial statement was also prepared by Brother JULIEN, and has been placed in the hands of the Grand Secretary. It is my opinion that, under present conditions, a successful lodge cannot be maintained at this point and I recommend that the charter be revoked. SPECIAL APPROPRIATIONS.
On account of the arrest of the charter of Shawnee Lodge No. 54, it became necessary for the Grand Lodge to advance some money to meet current bills and obligations. These obligations consisted principally of interest accumulating on notes given for the purpose of erecting . a Masonic Temple in which the lodge had an equity of about $6,000.00 which upon revocation of the charter becomes the property of the Grand Lodge. The Council of Administration, on April 6th, authorized the Grand Secretary to expend an amount not to exceed $600.00 for this purpose. At the last Communication of the Grand Lodge, the charter of Brainerd Lodge No. 280 was revoked, making it necessary t h a t the Grand Lodge meet the outstanding obligations. The Council of Administration on April 6th authorized the expenditure, by the Grand Secretary, of $400.00, or so much thereof as might be necessary for
38 .
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
this purpose. Inasmuch as Letters of Dispensation have been issued authorizing the formation of a new lodge at Whitewater this amount has been returned to the Grand Lodge. CONFERRING DEGREES IN LESS THAN THE LAWFUL TIME.
The following lodges violated the Constitution of the Grand Lodge in conferring degrees in less than the lawful time: Active Lodge No. 158. Prairie Queen Lodge No. 176. In order to heal, as far as possible, the violation of the law, I issued dispensations waiving statutory time in each case, required the payment of a fee of $5.00, and administered a reprimand to the officers who were responsible. OUTSIDE ORGANIZATIONS AND BUSINESS ENTERPRISES.
During the year the usual requests for recognition have been received from outside organizations predicating their membership, either directly or indirectly, on Ancient Craft Masonry, and likewise requests from business enterprises for recommendation and authority to solicit among the membership of our lodges. It has been a long estabhshed custom and policy of our Grand Lodge not to recognize extraneous organizations, or recommend anything of a business or commercial character whatever. The record of the past has proven the wisdom of this policy. I have therefore refused all such requests. PROPAGANDA.
Almost at the beginning of my administration, information came to me that our lodges were being flooded with letters and circulars purporting to come from an organization known as the National Masonic Tuberculosis Sanatoria Association. Our Grand Lodge has spoken in no uncertain terms as to its policy in regard to this organization, and while there may be merit in the work they are undertaking, and Masons should ever be ready to help, aid and assist our unfortunate brethren, we do not believe the plan as now organized by this Association a feasible one and have steadfastly refused to endorse or join in the proposition in any manner whatever. This fact being known to the officers of the organization, there can be but one conclusion: that is an effort on their part to make a direct and unauthorized appeal to the sentiment of the membership of this Grand Lodge in order to force recognition without the courtesy of asking permission to do so. The following letter was therefore mailed to all lodges:
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
•
39
" F R O M T H E GRAND EAST
March 8, 1927. To the Master, Wardens and Brethren of' all Lodges in this Jurisdiction. BRETHREN:
It has come to my knowle'dge that our lodges, as well as individual members, are receiving communications and printed circulars concerning a proposed National Masonic. Tuberculosis Sanatoria Association, which have not been approved or sanctioned by our Grand Lodge or your Grand Master, and all lodges and members are warned to disregard these or any other appeals of a similar nature. In this connection attention is called to the repeated warnings sent our lodges from time to time to disregard all appeals or requests for financial assistance unless they had the approval of your Grand Master. The communications and printed matter are in the form of propaganda emanating from the above Association, supported by a selfconstituted organization known as the Masonic Service Association of the United States, located at Washington, D. C , which Association is not recognized either directly or indirectly by our Grand Lodge. It would be well for all lodges to notify their members wherever possible, as our jurisdiction is now being flooded with these circulars and communications. Fraternally yours, CHARLES N . FOWLER,
Attest:
-
Grand Master."
ALBERT K . WILSON,
Grand Secretary. RELIEF.
Following reports of great devastation to lives and property by flood in Arkansas, Mississippi and Louisiana during the latter part of April, our Grand Lodge, through the Grand Secretary, wired the Grand Masters of these jurisdictions offering financial assistance for the relief of brethren in the territory affected. Telegrams were received from these Grand Masters advising prompt relief was necessary and that whatever we might do in the way of financial assistance would be gratefully received and properly disbursed through them. In response to the urgent need, on April 28th, vouchers were issued as follows: EDWIN F . GAYLE, Grand Master, Louisiana W. M. KEMP, Grand Master, Arkansas •JAMES H . JOHNSON, Grand Master, Mississippi
$1,000 00 500 00 1,000 00
with instruction that these amounts be used by them in relieving the distress of our brethren in the stricken area. Lengthy telegrams were received also from the Masonic Service Association of the United States. Our Grand Lodge is not now, and never has been, in sympathy with the Masonic Service Association, preferring to maintain our sovereignty. Therefore, in keeping with the
40
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
unqualified policy of our Grand Lodge, all contributions from this Grand Lodge should be dispensed through the Grand Masters of the affected jurisdiction. In cases of disaster such as this, I wish to reaffirm the position taken by Past Grand Master BESTOR G . BROWN at the time of our flood disaster in 1903. Brother BROWN took the position that those who lost their property in the fiood were in a corresponding situation with one whose home or business had been destroyed by fire or otherwise; that Masonic charity in its broadest sense did not contemplate rehabilitation of property, but it contemplated providing food, clothing and shelter for those who were destitute. Masonic charity is coming more and more to be misunderstood and abused. There are those among our membership who seem to feel the institution should assist them in business, loan them money when needed, and, if they are unfortunate, that it is the duty of Masonry to set them on their feet and restore them to their former situation. This is entirely foreign to the fundamental principles of Masonic charity or Masonic duty. If this conception of Masonry is allowed to prevail, we shall be compelled to establish and maintain an insurance department and conduct a regular banking business. TRIAL COMMISSIONERS AND MASONIC TRIALS.
Our law provides that the Grand Master shall appoint five Past or Present Masters of lodges to act as Commissioners of Trials. The following named brethren were duly appointed: W.-. J.^MES A. CASSLER, McPherson, Kansas. M.-.W.-. W.-. W.'. R.-. W.-.
RICHARD E . BIRD, Wichita, Kansas. FRANK D . SPERRY, Ellsworth, Kansas. J. FORREST AYRES, Greenleaf, Kansas. F E R R I S M . HILL, Emporia, Kansas.
These brethren have performed every duty assigned them with but one object in view, the dispensing of Masonic justice to all without fear or favor, sentiment, influence or prejudice. When this is done we need have no fear for the success of our trial procedure law. It is not to be supposed that any court of justice, civil, military or fraternal, will ever reach the state of perfection, and it is to be expected that appeals will be taken as in other courts. This has been wisely provided for in our law. During the year, a question has arisen as to whether a witness in a Masonic trial must submit to cross-examination. While crossexamination may be, and perhaps is, a fundamental right in civil jurisprudence, we are without power to enforce such a ruling or procedure upon a witness who is not a member of the Fraternity, nor can we compel them to testify at all. Testimony of the profane in a Masonic court must of necessity be voluntary, and a witness not a Mason cannot be forced to submit to cross-examination.
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
41
It is the opinion of your Grand Master that witnesses who are Masons may be compelled, not only to give testimony, but submit to cross-examination, and that a refusal to do either, after being served with lawful summons, constitutes an offense against the Body of Masonry and is subject to discipline. The Commissioner in charge at the time of taking testimony occupies relatively the same position as a judge on the bench and should always bear in mind that a Ma. sonic trial should, and must, have but one purpose, the dispensation of fair, honest, impartial Masonic justice to both accuser and accused. Demurrers, motions to dismiss, amendments, continuances, unnecessary objections, cross-examination for the purpose of confusing witnesses or technicalities have no place in a Masonic trial. It was my pleasant duty to have had a part in framing our trial procedure law, and to have had the honor of being the first Chairman of the Commissioners of Trials. It is my earnest hope that our Masonic court be always one in which trials may be had, verdicts rendered and punishment administered with dispatch and without unnecessary delay. While the Grand Master is clothed with authority to order a new trial, I cannot conceive of a case wherein he would be justified in using this prerogative inasmuch as our law provides for appeal to the Grand Lodge. Very few weak points have developed in our trial procedure law since its adoption two years ago. As has always been the case, the officers of lodges are not sufficiently informed in trial procedure. All lodges have been furnished a complete copy of the trial procedure law and the officers should familiarize themselves with its requirements. One of the most frequent difficulties has been to impress the lodges that, under the law, they are compelled to furnish a stenographer, that both the accuser and the accused are entitled to counsel and that such counsel must be a Mason. Probably the greatest difficulty experienced by the Commissioners is the fact that, in preferring charges, lodges endeavor to confine themselves to one or two charges and specifications when, in fact, they have much evidence in their possession which could be embodied into a number of charges and specifications. The result is that the lodge experiences a great amount of difficulty in presenting the evidence upon the charges and specifications, or attempts to convict of conduct unbecoming a Mason on evidence which is not competent under the charges and specifications. All known acts of misconduct which can be substantiated by e\'idence should be included in the charges and specifications. It should be the policy of the Grand Lodge to carefully analyze any proposed changes or amendments in the law to the end that it may not become top-heavy and littered with that well developed and well known disease, "too much law".
42
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SPECIAL TRIAL COMMISSIONERS.
At the last Annual Communication the following cases were remanded for retrial: Marysville Lodge No. 91 vs. GEORGE T . MOHRBACHER. Marysville Lodge No. 91 vs. JOHN E . RILEY.
By-Law No. 34 (a) provides that the Grand Master may appoint special Commissioners to try any specific case. As the personnel of the Commissioners of Trials had been changed very little this year, I deemed'it for the best interest of all concerned, that a special commission be appointed to try these two cases, and therefore appointed R.-.W.-.GEORGE F . BEEZLEY, R . - . W . - . F E R R I S M . H I L L and W . - . H E N R Y
S. BuziCK, J R . These brethren accepted the responsibility and I wish to thank them for the service rendered. DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTERS.
To appreciate fully what the service of the District Deputy means to the Grand Lodge and to the Grand Master, one must be placed in a position of responsibility where he must depend on the ability, loyalty and faithful service of the Deputy in each district. This is especially true with the office of Grand Master. Through the Deputy he must keep in touch with the lodges. Through the official visits of these officers he is informed as to matters of records, work and general conduct of the lodges. He is also subject to the call of special duty. He must preside at district meetings, is responsible for proper arrangements being made and is largely responsible for the success or failure of these meetings. Firmly believing that, if either the lodges or the Grand Master were to receive any benefit from the official visits of the Deputy, these visits must be made during the early part of the year, I asked each brother before appointing him if he would complete the visits to the lodges in his particular district by July 1, 1927. I am, indeed, pleased to be able to report all but twelve lodges were officially visited by that date. These twelve were included in three districts and the Deputies in these districts gave ample excuse for their failure. Many Deputies have visited lodges twice during the year. What institution other than Masonry could command the time, ability, sacrifice and loyalty of seventy-six busy men who compose the District Deputies of this jurisdiction? The answer can only be understood and appreciated by those who really know the real underlying principles of this great institution. Masonry was not founded or built on selfishness, greed, or personal ambition, but upon love, service and sacrifice. He is a poor Mason and has no conception, of the real purposes of Masonry who does not love GOD, his country, his home, his lodge and his neighbor. The latter includes, not only our brethren of the Mystic Tie, but the whole of mankind, for all humanity is our neighbor. Nor can
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
43
one enjoy or appreciate Masonry without a desire to serve wherever and whenever opportunity may present itself and a willingness to sacrifice his time, his ability and his purse, if need be, for all that is good, just and true. I wish here to pay homage and express my thanks to each and every District Deputy who served me so well and faithfully during the year, without the hope of fee or reward. These brethren have proven themselves Masons who feel and appreciate that Masonry means service, and "what can I put into this great institution rather than what can I take out". As a matter of information and with the thought the subject might be of interest, I have kept a careful record of the number of members present at the time of the official visits of the District Deputy. This record shows, on the part of the membership in general, a lack of interest in things Masonic and of vital interest to their own particular lodge. The visit of the District Deputy is perhaps the most important meeting of the year and deserves greater interest on the part of the membership. Out of a total of over 82,000 Master Masons in Kansas there were 11,565 present at these important meetings, an average of 25, while the average membership of the lodges is 183. This is not a record of which we may be proud. DISTRICT MEETINGS.
District meetings were held in each of the seventy-six districts. A new plan for these meetings was adopted this year. None of the officers of the lodges had advance information as to what part of the Work they would be called upon the exemplify. This plan was a radical departure from that formerly used. I felt we were not getting information as to the true conditions and the quality of Work being done by the individual lodges. Under the old system, advance notice was given the officers as to the particular Work which they would be required to do. My observation was that the officers in many lodges did not realize their responsibility. In many cases they would appear at the meetings in time for their particular part of the program feeling, that when it was over their responsibility had ended, and that they were free to leave the hall, or even to return to their homes. Under the new plan no officer knew when he might be called upon. In order that the officers might be prepared, I mailed a letter to the Master of each lodge immediately after the Annual Communication, advising what the plan was and what would be expected of the officers. In this lettei" I enclosed a copy of the form to be .used by the Lecturer in his report of the district meeting. The success of the plan surpassed all expectations and was received by the officers of nearly all lodges with enthusiasm and hearty cooperation. They vied with each other in an endeavor to do the best work possible and our district meetings were full of interest and enthusiasm. The plan worked per-
44
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
fectly in sifting out the officers of lodges doing inefficient work. No criticism has been made on any officer or set'of officers who have attended the meetings and done the best they could, be it good or bad. Our district meetings are not to criticise, but to be helpful. The inefficient officers who did the best they could are to be commended, but not to be excused for their inefficiency in the Work of their particular office. Masonic honors should be the reward for work and no Mason should accept the honors or responsibilities of an officer of a lodge unless he fulfills his duties as such. During the year I mailed a letter, through the District Deputies, to the lodges advising if proper showing was not made by the officers, especially in attendance, the Lecturer would be sent to their lodge and they would be required to exemplify the three degrees. This has been strictly adhered to. I have kept a careful record of the attendance of officers at all district meetings and here submit a tabulated report. Out of a total of 449 lodges there were in attendance: Masters, 382; Senior Wardens, 325; Junior Wardens, 332; Treasurers, 184; Secretaries, 298; Senior Deacons, 325; Junior Deacons, 284; Senior Stewards, 263; Junior Stewards, 206; Tylers, 185. Of 4,490 officers 2,821 attended the meetings. There was not a single district in which all the officers were present. The best showing was made by District No. 6 with 35 officers.present out a total of 40. District No. 54 holds the honor of being a close second, with 23 present out of a total of 30. Nos. 72 and 46 are tied, with 40 present out of 50, with Nos. 20 and 28 in a close race to tie them, with 39 present out of 50. The poorest showing was made by District 14, with but 18 present out of a total of 60, with Nos. 17 and 19 running a close second for the cellar honors. I do not have before me records of former years, but feel certain this year compares favorably with others. This record shows we have not yet realized the limit of efficiency which might be accomplished by our system of district meetings. Too many trivial excuses are given by officers for not attending. In order that I might have a record of these excuses I issued a blank report requiring the Master of each lodge to submit the excuses of all officers not attending the meetings. It would be interesting and rather . amusing were these excuses to be tabulated. Were the officers as familiar with other parts of the Work as these excuses would imply they are with a certain phrase of the Charge in the first degree, there would be no further need for district meetings. This part of the Charge refers to appearance at regular meetings and is not to be used as an excuse in any event, particularly for not attending district meetings, as notice is given long enough in advance to allow each officer to be relieved from his regular duties in order that " Masonry might not interfere with his necessary vocations". Although possible, I am of the opinion there is not an officer in any lodge in Kansas who could not arrange to be absent from his regular vocation for a half-day were he to make an earnest endeavor to do so. Sickness of ones self, or family,
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
45
or unavoidable accidents should be the only excuse acceptable and the only one offered by an officer who has accepted the honor and responsibility of any office in a Masonic lodge. If he is not willing to serve and sacrifice, he should accept neither the honor nor the responsibility. I wish to recommend most earnestly the new plan to my successor. BONDING LODGE FUNDS.
On recommendation of the Committee on Jurisprudence, adopted at the last Annual Communication, the subject of bonding Treasurers and Secretaries was referred to the incoming Grand Master who, with the other members of the Council of Administration, was authorized to take such action as they might deem best. As this subject was one that would of necessity require much correspondence and consume months of time, I began at once the work of assembling the necessary data. The first important step was to decide the class of bond most desirable and then to select a well established reliable bonding company that would agree to write such a bond. The Council of Administration was unanimously of the opinion that a fidelity bond with a rider attached covering depository liability, which would not only cover the office of Treasurer and Secretary, but also protect the funds of the lodge in case of the failure of a bank in which they were deposited, was the only desirable one. The matter was taken up with the Cravens Agency of Salina, Kansas, who are agents for six of the leading bonding companies in the United States. This firm advised that the Fidelity and Deposit Company of Maryland, located at Baltimore, would write a bond of the character desired to be known as a Schedule Bond: in other words, one bond covering all lodges in Kansas in which the depositories were approved by them. It was decided that the amount of this bond should be $450,000.00, to be proportioned as nearly as possible according to the membership of each lodge, and that the premium should be paid from the general fund of the Grand Lodge. A schedule was prepared showing the amount proportioned to each lodge and is attached to and made a part of the contract. Months were consumed and endless correspondence was necessary to secure from the Masters of the 449 lodges the information required. It was the old, old story of procrastination. It was necessary for the Bonding Company to know where thefunds of each lodge were deposited and have in their possession a copy of the last statement of such depository in order that they might approve or not approve such depository. Enough information had been secured and depositories approved by July 1st that it was thought justifiable to proceed, and the bond was written to be effective July 1, 1927, covering the funds of all lodges whose depositories had been approved. At this date, January 19th, the last lodge has just reported.
46
PBOCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Approval of the depositories of 424 lodges has been secured and the funds of these are protected in the amount shown by the schedule. The funds of the 25 lodges where depositories were not approved by the Bonding Company have no protection as far as the Grand Lodge and this bond is concerned. The total amount of the Schedule Bond is therefore reduced from $450,000.00 to $429,000.00. The total amount of premium is $1,582.50, for which warrants have been drawn. This bond is the highest form of fidelity bond issued by any bonding company. The fidelity feature of the bond is almost unlimited. Additions or changes in the schedule are accepted without application, either in amounts larger or smaller, as the case may be. The only requirement is a notice to the Company that a new lodge has been created or a new position covered. The bond covers any acts of dishonesty, collusion, larceny, theft or wrongful abstraction, wilful misapplication of funds, or any other act of fraud. The depository feature is one of great importance as it covers the funds in case of the failure of any bank in which such funds have been deposited of which the bonding company shall have given its written approval. There is one important requirement which should not be overlooked, and some system should be devised whereby those in authority might know it had been complied with. The bond specifically states, " T h e employer (which in this case is the Grand Lodge) shall make a careful inspection and audit of the books and accounts pertaining to each position covered, at least once in every twelve months while the bond is in force". This requirement is covered by By-Law No. 85 which provides for the appointment of a Committee on Finance who shall examine the reports of the Treasurer and Secretary. This By-Law, however, is not specific and should be amended or a new By-Law adopted specifically requiring the appointment of this committee by the Master at the time of installation. This committee should audit the books and accounts of the Treasurer and Secretary on some specific date, and the report be immediately transmitted to the Grand Secretary after its adoption by the lodge, in order that a record may be had that the committee has performed its duty. Another requirement of the Company is that they must be notified of any loss within ten days. A circular letter has been mailed to the Secretary of each lodge coming under this bond notifying them of this fact, with instruction to immediately notify the Grand Secretary in case of loss. Lodges whose funds are not protected under this bond should be required to deposit their funds in banks which secure the approval of the bonding company. Secretaries of lodges should be required to notify the Grand Secretary immediately in case of change in the depository. In this immense task I have had the cooperation and assistance of W.'. Brother RICHARD H . CRAVENS, for which I desire to express grate-
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
47
ful appreciation. If the good accomplished is commensurate with the labor involved, I shall feel repaid. The Bond and files are now in the hands of the Grand Secretary. The following is a list of lodges covered by this bond, together with the amounts and names of the depository: Lodgi e
Name of Depository. Location. Amount. No. 1 $ 1,000 First National Bank Highland 2,000 Wulfekuhler State Bank Leavenworth 2. Kansas City 3 10,000 Exchange State Bank 1,000 The Farmers State Bank Potter 4 2,000 The Exchange National Bank Atchison 5 Lawrence 2,500 Merchants National Bank 6 2,500 The Central National Bank Junction City 7 3,000 Citizens National Bank Fort Scott 8 2,500 The Merchants National Bank 9 Lawrence 2,500 Wulfekuhler State Bank Leavenworth 10 Jewell City 11 250 The First National Bank 5,000 The Citizens National Bank Emporia 12 Corning 18 250 The Farmers State Bank 1,000 State Bank of Oskaloosa , Oskaloosa 14 2,000 Citizens National Bank Great Bend 15 3,000 First National Bank Manhattan 16 5,000 Farmers National Bank Topeka 17 2,000 The Kansas State Bank Ottawa 18 1,500 The Johnson Co. Savings & Loan Assn.Olathe 19 Circleville 20 250 Farmers State Bank Valley Falls 21 250 Citizens State Bank 1,000 Melvern State Bank Melvern 22 1,000 The Peoples State Bank Baldwin City 2a 2,000 The American State Bank Osawatomie 24 Oketo 25 250 Oketo State Bank LeRoy 27 250 First National Bank Mapleton 28 250 Citizens State Bank 1,000 Humboldt.National Bank 29 Humboldt Atchison 81 250 The City National Bank Auburn 32 250 Security State Bank Mound City 33 250 Union State Bank Havensville 84 250 The Havensville State Bank 1,500 The Morrill and Janes Bank .Hiawatha 35 1,500 Farmers & Drovers Bank Council Grove 86 1,500 Miami County National Bank Paola 37 2,500 Allen County State Bank lola 88 1,000 The National Bank of Seneca Seneca 39 1,000 DeSoto State Bank DeSoto 40 Pomona 41 250 Citizens State Bank 2,000 The Kansas State Bank Holton 42 1,000 Nickerson State Bank .• Nickerson . 48 1,000 National Bank of Commerce Garnett 44 Easton 45 250 Easton State Bank Halstead 46 250 Halstead Bank... Mapleton 47 250 Citizens State Bank 48 250 Farmers & Merchants State Bank Effingham 1,000 Manufacturers National Bank Leavenworth 49 1,000 Silver Lake State Bank Silver Lake 50 Topeka 51 10,000 The Central National Bank St. Marys 52 250 First National Bank
48
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Lodge Name of Depository. Location. No. Amount. Wetmore 53 $ 250 The First National Bank Shawnee State Savings Bank Shawnee 54 Troy 55 250 The First National Bank... Spring Hill 1,000 The State Bank of Spring Hill 56 Coyville 57 250 The Coyville State Bank McCracken 1,000 Citizens State Bank 58 Barnard 1,000 The First National Bank..., 59 Salina 5,000 The Farmers National Bank 60 La Cygne 1,000 Linn County Bank 61 La Cygne State Bank La Cygne 1,000 Kansas State Bank Overbrook 62 Oswego 1,000 . The American State Bank 63 Wathena 1,000 Fruit Growers State Bank 64 Gardner 1,000 Farmers Bank 65 BurUngton 1,000 The Peoples National Bank 66 Frankfort 1,000 The Citizens National Bank 67 1,500 The Leavenworth Savings &' Trust Co. Leavenworth 68 69 250 The Labette County State Bank....;...Altamont Carbondale 1,000 Carbondale State Bank 70 Baxter Springs 1,500 The Baxter National Bank 71 Huron 72 250 The Huron State Bank 1,000 Chetopa State Bank Chetopa . 73 Augusta 2,500 First National Bank 74 1,000 The Kaw Valley State & Savings Bank..Wamego 75 Erie 1,000 The Bank of Erie 76 Medicine Lodge 1,500 The Home State Bank 77 First State Bank White Cloud 78 250 Burlingame 1,000 The First National Bank 79 ...CottonwoodFalls 1,500 The Exchange National Bank 80 Fredonia 81 250 Wilson County Bank Neosho Falls 82 250 Farmers State Bank Eudora 83 250 Kaw Valley State Bank Winchester 1,000 The Bank of Winchester 84 Waterville 85 250 The Citizens State Bank 5,000 Wichita State Bank Wichita 86 Mankato 1,000 The State Exchange Bank 87 Pleasanton 1,000 Bank of Pleasanton 88 Centralia 89 250 Citizens State Bank of Centralia Topeka 3,000 Kaw Valley National Bank 90 1,500 Exchange Bank of Schmidt & Koester.Marysville 91 Fort Scott 92 250 The Citizens National Bank 1,500 The First National Band of Girard....Girard 93 Neodesha 2,000 First National Bank 94 Fredonia 2,000 Wilson County Bank 95 The Peoples National Bank Kansas City 1,000 96 El Dorado 5,000 The Citizens State Bank 97 Abilene 2,000 The Farmers National Bank 98 Wichita 7,500 The Fourth National Bank 99 Columbus 1,500 The Columbus State Bank 100 The Lyndon State Bank Lyndon 1,000 101 Coffeyville 3,000 The Condon National Bank 102 2,500 The Bank of Commerce Chanute 103 Washington 1,000 The Washington National Bank 104 Solomon 1,000 The Solomon National Bank 105 Eureka 1,500 The First National Bank 106 Independence 3,000 Independence State Bank 107
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
Lodge Name of Depository. Location. No. Amount. Garland 108 $ 250 Home State Bank Americus 109 250 Americus State Bank Winfield 2,500 The Winfield National Bank 110 Rossville 1,000 Peoples State Bank 111 Irving 112 250 Irving State Bank 2,000 The Farmes & Merchants State Bank..Concordia 113 Florence 1,500 Florence State Bank 114 Uniontown 115 250 The Union State Bank Muscotah 116 250 Farmers & Merchants State Bank Parsons 3,000 The First National Bank 117 Neodesha 1,000 First National Bank 118 Cherokee 1,000 The First Nat'l Bank ot Cherokee 119 Peabody 1,500 First National Bank 120 Clifton 1,000 The First National Bank 122 Repubhc 123 250 Citizens State Bank 124 250 The Farmers & Miners State Bank....Girard 1,000 Farmers & Merchants State Bank Cawker City 125 Elk Falls 126 250 Elk Falls State Bank Edgerton 127 250 The Edgerton State Bank Munden 128 250 Munden State Bank Belleville • 1,500 The First National Bank 129 Netawaka 130 250 Citizens State Bank: Fontana 131 250 The Fontana State Bank Elk City 132 250 The First National Bank Arkansas City 3,000 The Home National Bank 133 Clay Center 1,500 The Peoples National Bank 134 Lenexa 135 250 Farmers State Bank Sedan 1,500 The First National Bank 136 Cherryvale 1,500 The Peoples State Bank 137 Dover 138 250 Dover State Bank Sedgwick 1,000 Sedgwick State Bank 139 Hutchinson 5,000 The State Exchange Bank 140 Osage City 1,000 Osage County Bank 141 Newton 3,000 Kansas State Bank 142 Minneapolis 1,000 Citizens National Bank 143 Yates Center 1,500 Yates Center State Bank 144 Beloit 1,500 The Beloit State Bank 145 Ellsworth 1,500 Citizens State Bank 146 Central National Bank Ellsworth 1,500 The Trego County State Bank Wa-Keeney 148 Thayer 149 250 Thayer State Bank 2,500 The First National Bank Wellington 150 Douglas 1,500 The Exchange State Bank 151 Lebo 1,000 Lebo State Bank 152 Lincoln 1,500 Salina Valley Bank 154 Dexter 1,000 Farmers & Merchants State Bank 156 South Haven 1,000 South Haven Bank 157 Atchison 2,000 The Exchange National Bank 158 Robinson 159 250 The Bank of Robinson Osborne 1,500 Exchange National Bank 160 Farmers National Bank Osborne Alma 161 1,000 Alma National Bank Sabetha 1,500 National Bank of Sabetha 162 Fall River 163 250 Bank of Fall River Atwood 1,500 The Rawlins State Bank 164 Oxford 1,000 Farmers & Merchants State Bank 165
49
50
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Lodge Name of Depository. Location. No. Amount. Randolph 166 $ 250 State Bank of Randolph Larned 2,000 The First State Bank 167 Blue Rapids 1,000 The State Bank of Blue Rapids 169 Linn 170 250 The Exchange State Bank Sterling 1,500 Citizens State Bank 171 1,500 The McPherson & Citizens State Bank McPherson 172 Belle Plaine 1,000 The Valley State Bank 173 Smith Center 1,000 First National Bank 174 Kirwin 1,000 The Farmers State Bank 175 Clyde 1,000 The. Exchange National Bank 176 1,000 Russell State Bank Russell 177 "178 250 The Jewell County National Bank Burr Oak 1,000 Kinsley Bank Kinsley 179 Bennington 180 250 The Farmers State Bank 1,000 Exchange Bank Lenora 181 Gaylord 1,000 The First National Bank 183 Phillipsburg 1,500 The First National Bank 184 Hamlin 185 250 The Bank of Hamlin 1,000 First State Bank Oberlin 186 7,500 The National Bank of Pittsburg Pittsburg 187 Onaga 188. 1,000 Onaga State Bank Tonganoxie 1,000 The First National Bank 190 Ness City 1,000 National Bank of Ness City 191 Lyons 1,500 The Lyons National Bank 192 Hartford 1,000 Farmers State Bank 193 Galena 1,000 Citizens Bank of Galena 194 Hays 1,500 First National Bank 195 Madison 1,000 The Farmers State Bank 196 Canton 1,000 State Bank of Canton. 197 Lucas 1,000 The First National Bank 198 Norton 1,500 The First National Bank 199 Anthony 1,500 The First National Bank 200 Mulvane 1,000 The Mulvane State Bank 201 Delphos 202 250 The State Bank of Delphos First National Bank Delphos 203 1,500 The Stock Exchange Bank Caldwell Downs 1,000 The State Bank of Downs 204 Eskridge 1,000 State Bank of Eskridge 205 Harper 1,000 First National Bank of Harper 206 Alton 1,000 The Farmers State Bank 207 .....Haven 208 250 The Citizens State Bank Brookville 209 250 Brookville State Bank 1,000 The Bank of Fulton Fulton 210 Greeley 211 250 Bank of Greeley 1,000 The First National Bank Colony 212 Simpson 214 250 Simpson State Bank Rush Center 215 250 Citizens State Bank Ellinwood 217 250 The Peoples State Bank Mound Valley 218 250 The Peoples State Bank 1,000 Citizens State Bank Little River 219 Lewis 220 250 Home State Bank 1,000 Farmers & Merchants Bank Scandia 221 2,500 First National Bank Dodge City 222 1,000 Farmers State Bank Leon 223 1,000 Williamsburg State Bank Williamsburg 224 5,000 The Merchants National Bank Topeka 225
1927-28.
No. 226 227 228 229 230 231 232 238 234 235 236 237 238 239 240 241 242 243 244 245 246 247 248 249 250 251 252 253 254 255 256 257 258 259 260 261 262 263 264 265 266 267 268 269 270 271 272 273 274 275 276 277 278 279 280 281
GRAND
Amount. $
250
250 250 250 1,000
250 1,000 1,000 1,000
250 1,000 1,000 1,000
250 250 250 250 1,000 1,000 1,000 1,500
250 250 250 250 250 1,500 1,000 1,000
250 1,000 . 250 1,000
250 250 1,000
250 1,000
250 1,500 1,000 1,000
250 1,500 1,000 2,500 5,000
250 1,000 1,000
250 1,000 1,000
250 250 1,000
LODGE
OF 'KANSAS.
51
Name of Depository. Location. The Citizens State Bank Haddam The Jamestown State Bank Jamestown The State Bank of Esbon Esbon The Farmers State Bank Walnut First National Bank Kingman Farmers State Bank Long Island Greenleaf State Bank Greenleaf State Bank of Burden Burden The First National Bank of Axtell Axtell Farmers & Merchants State Bank Leonardville State Bank of Meriden Meriden McCune State Bank McCune First National Bank Mt. Hope Allen State Bank Erie State Bank of Soldier Soldier The Lawrence National Bank Lawrence The Drovers State Bank Miltonvale The First National Bank Louisburg The First National Bank.... Waverly The Peoples State Bank Moran Garden City National Bank Garden City Farmers State Bank , Chase The Grenola State Bank Grenola The First National Bank... Beloit The State Bank of Whiting Whiting Farmers State Bank .Galva Farmers National Bank..' Stafford The First National Bank at Oakley....Oakley The First National Bank St. John Milan State Bank Milan Bank of McLouth McLouth The Farrners State Bank Westmoreland The Citizens State Bank Cheney First National Bank Beattie The First State Bank ..Lake City Miners State Bank Mulberry Attica State Bank Attica The State Bank of Hazelton Hazelton The First National Bank Logan The Citizens State Bank Pratt The First National Bank Nortonville The First National Bank Moline The Bank of Bronson Bronson First National Bank Conway Springs Quenemo State Bank Quenemo The Armourdale State Bank Kansas City The Commercial National Bank Kansas City The State Bank of Clearwater Clearwater Citizens Bank of Weir Weir The Meade State Bank Meade Windom State-Bank ,Windom The Stockdrawers National Bank Ashland Bank of Kiowa Kiowa First National Bank Dighton Chapman State Bank Chapman The American State Bank Hill City
52
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Lodge Name of Depository. Location. No. Amount. Jetmore 282 $ 250 :Farmers State Bank Scott City 250 'Citizens State Bank 284 Argonia 250 :Farmers & Merchants State Bank 285 Blue Mound 250 :Farmers State Bank 286 Lebanon 1,000 .Lebanon State Bank 287 Hope 250 :First National Bank 288 Lakin 250 :Kearny County Bank 289 250 :Bunker Hill State Bank Bunker Hill 291 Glasco 250 'The First National Bank 292 1,000 'The Farmers National Bank Greensburg 293 Glen Elder 1,000 'The Traders State Bank 294 Coldwater 1,000 1Coldwater National Bank 295 ' Green 250 'The First National Bank 296 Wilson 1,000 'The Wilson State Bank 298 Arlington 1,000 'Citizens State Bank 299 Liberal 1,000 'The Citizens State Bank 300 Hamilton 1,000 'The Hamilton State Bank 301 Gove 250 :Exchange State Bank...... 302 Wichita 303 10,000 'The Fourth National Bank Westphalia 250 1State Bank of Westphalia 305 Colby 1,000 :Farmers & Merchants Bank 306 Herington 2,000 :Bank of Herington 307 Alden 250 .Alden State Bank 308 Syracuse 1,000 'The Valley State Bank 309 Almena 1,000 •'The Almena State Bank 310 The First National Bank Almena Ft. Leavenworth 2,500 .Army National Bank 311 Sublette 250 'The Santa Fe State Bank 312 Severance 250 :Bank of Severance 313 Grldley 1,000 'Citizens State Bank 314 Savonburg 1,000 'The Savonburg State Bank 315 Syracuse 250 'The Valley State Bank 316 Norcatur 250 'The First National Bank 317 Wallace 250 'The Wallace County Bank 318 The Norwich State Bank Norwich 1,000 ' 319 Vermillion 250 1State Bank of Hamilton 320 Goodland 1,500 'The First National Bank 321 Kansas City 2,500 :Industrial State Bank 322 Oneida 250 iState Bank of Oneida 323 Caney 1,500 'The Home National Bank 324 La Harpe 250 'The First National Bank 325 2,000 :Bank of Horton Horton 326 Hoyt 1,000 Hoyt State Bank 327 Gypsum 250 ^Gypsum Valley National Bank 328 1,000 :Home State Bank Arcadia 329 1,000 'The Farmers&MerchantsStateBank.Rush County 330 Hoisington 1,000 :Peoples State Bank... 331 Preston 250 :State Bank of Preston 332 Kansas City 333 2,000 'The Rosedale State Bank Oak Hill 250 1State Bank of Oak Hill 334 Allen 335 250 !State Bank of Allen Frederick 250 :Frederick State Bank 337 Kincaid 338 1,000 'The Bank of Kincaid Lane 250 :Lane State Bank 339 Leoti 340 250 'The First State Bank Centerville 341 1,000 'Centerville State Bank The Parker State Bank Parker
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
Lodge No. Amount. Name of Depository. 342 $ 250 :Farmers & Merchants State Bank 343 1,000 'The Bank of Holyrood 344 1,000 'The Riley State Bank 345 1,000 'The First National Bank of Edna 346 Citizens State Bank 250 250 iState Bank of Kingman 347 250 'The Hoxie State Bank 348 349 1,000 :State Bank of Narka 351 1,000 'The Scammon State Bank 352 250 :First National Bank 353 1,000 'The Farmers State Bank 355 1,000 'The Citizens National Bank 356 250 'The Wellsville Bank 357 250 Alta Vista State Bank 358 1,000 :Farmers State Bank 359 1,000 'The Sylvan State Bank 360 The State Bank of Jennings 250 361 250 The Citizens State Bank 363 250 The Bank of Powhattan The Valley Center State Bank 1,500 364 365 250 First National Bank First National Bank 366 1,500 367 Plains State Bank 250 368 250 The State Bank of Bluff City 369 3,000 The Home State Bank 370 250 The Stockgrowers State Bank 371 1,000 Farmers & Merchants State Bank 372 250 Denison State Bank 373 250 Citizens State Bank 374 Farmers State Bank 1,000 Delavan State Bank 375 250 377 250 Waldron State Bank 378 250 Zenda State Bank 379 . 250 The State Bank of Buffalo 380 250 The First National Bank 381 250 Citizens State Bank 382 250 Wilsey State Bank 383 Farmers State Bank of McDonald 1,000 384 Protection State Bank 1,000 386 Tyro State Bank : 250 387 250 First National Bank 388 250 The First National Bank 389 250 Freeport State Bank 390 250 First National Bank 391 250 State Bank of Sylvia 392 250 The Fostoria State Bank 393 250 Exchange State Bank 395 250 Saffordville State Bank 396 1,000 The Bank of Wakefield 397 1,000 Commercial State Bank 398 Hepler State Bank 250 399 250 First State Bank -400 State Bank of Ottawa 1,000 401 250 Peoples State Bank 402 The Wakarusa State Bank 1,000 403 250 Benedict State Bank
53
Location. Dexter Holyrood Riley Edna Mound Ridge Kingman Hoxie Narka Scammon Tribune Marquette Cedar Vale Wellsville Alta Vista Turon Sylvan Grove Jennings Geneseo Powhattan Valley Center Leavenworth Bonner Springs Plains Bluff City Tyro Maple Hill Macksville Denison Morrill Dwight Delavan Waldron Zenda Buffalo White City Grainfield Wilsey McDonald Protection Tyro St. Marys Spearville Freeport Natoma Sylvia Fostoria Mayetta Saffordville Wakefield Lindsborg Hepler Mullinville Ottawa Latham Wakarusa Benedict
54
PMOCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
Lodge No. Amount. Name of Depository. Location. 404 $ 250 Cheyenne County State Bank St. Francis 407 250 Security State Bank Scranton 409 250 First National Bank Haviland 410 250 Quinter State Bank Quinter 411 250 The Climax State Bank Climax 412 250 Wilmore State Bank Wilmore 413 250 The Peoples State Bank Ensign 414 250 Morland State Bank Morland 415 250 Bank of Perry Perry 416 3,000 First National Bank of Chanute Chanute The Bank of Commerce ...Chanute 417 250 Citizens State Bank Sharon Springs 418 250 The Codell State Bank Codell 419 250 Delia State Bank Delia 420 250 State Bank of Lecompton Lecompton 421 250 The Krst National Bank Harveyville 422 250 The First National Bank Elkhart 423' 250 Farmers State Bank Selden 424 250 Citizens State Bank Claflin 425 250 Turner State Bank Turner 426 250 First National Bank Richmond 427 250 First National Bank Cunningham 428 250 State Bank of Pretty Prairie Pretty Prairie 429 250 Farmers State Bank Burdick 430 250 The First National Bank Goff 431 250 Peoples State Bank Minneola 432 250 Deerfield State Bank : Deerfield 433 1,500 Union National Bank Wichita 434 250 The Rosalia State Bank Rosalia 435 250 Grant County State Bank Ulysses 436 250 Overland Park State Bank Overland Park 437 250 The Dickinson County Bank Enterprise 438 250 The.Home State Bank Kansas City 439 250 The Beaumont State Bank Beaumont 440 250 Bendena State Bank Bendena 441 250 The Johnson State Bank Johnson 442 250 Rexford State Bank Rexford 443 250 First National Bank Kanorado 444 250 State Bank of Stanley Stanley 445 1,000 Citizens Bank '. Hutchinson 446 250 Satanta State Bank : Satanta 447 250 Kingsdown State Bank Kingsdown 448 250 Grinnell State Bank Grinnell U.D. 250 Peoples State Bank White Water $429,000
Total Amount of Policy. SPECIAL ADDRESS.
The special address of W.'. Brother ROBERT P. McCoLLOCH will be given this evening at 7:15 o'clock in Representative Hall. The subject this year is, "The Spirit of Masonry". These special addresses are coming to be appreciated more each year, not only by the Grand Lodge, but among the membership at large. They are, of necessity, of an educational character and should
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
55
be so considered. To those who appreciate the deep worth-while things of Masonry, they are an inspiration. To those who care for nothing but to be entertained, they are, of course, uninteresting. Give us more Masonic students and less of those who merely desire to display the insignia. EXEMPLIFICATION OF THE WORK.
On November 23rd, I extended an invitation to Siloam Lodge No. 225 of Topeka to exemplify the third degree before the Grand Lodge. The invitation was accepted November 29th, and this lodge will exemplify the third degree this evening in Representative Hall. A full attendance of representatives is desired, and an invitation is extended to all Master Masons to be present. INVESTMENTS.
On July 27th, I was advised by the Grand Secretary that U. S. Savings Certificates amounting to $1,200.00, had been paid and that we could safely invest $5,000.00 in Government bonds, which met with my approval. Fourth Liberty Loan Bonds were purchased and voucher was issued for $5,258.73 to cover purchase price and accrued interest. DRAMATIZED WORK.
During the year, I received information that thirty-eight lodges were doing Work in the dramatized form, and I am reliably informed that some of these lodges are not adhering strictly to the adopted form of this Grand Jurisdiction. I would recommend that all lodges doing Work in this form, which have not received instruction from the Lecturer, and any other lodge hereafter desiring to use the dramatized form, be required to secure instruction from the Lecturer in order that the Work may be uniform and correctly rendered as adopted by this Grand Lodge. DEGREE TEAMS.
It has come to the knowledge of your Grand Master that there is a growing tendency to organize or establish professional so-called teams for the purpose of exemplifying the third degree, either in the standard or dramatized form. In a few cases these teams are organized independent of the officers of the particular lodge, and, either upon solicitation or invitation of some other lodge, they make a pilgrimage to exemplify the Work for disportment and other purposes. On first thought this practice might not be considered harmful and even to be ot benefit in stimulating interest among the members. However, a study of conditions and results does not bear this out.
56
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
Febraary.
The officers of our lodges must, of necessity, be chosen from all walks of life, and the very nature of .our institution is such that it is neither possible nor to be expected that they shall be specialists in conferring degrees, and the after result of an exemplification of the Work by a team or officers who are specialists leaves a feeling of embarrassment among the officers who realize their inability to do Work of the same character. It also creates a spirit of comparison and criticism on the part of the members. Investigation also leads to the conclusion that a large majority of these organized teams, while possibly not openly so, are indirectly used for the purpose of propaganda for either the York or Scottish Rite, and the rivalry in some locations is quite pronounced. All of which, in my opinion, is contrary to the purpose and intent of the law as well as the established customs and dignity of symbolic Masonry. At the time of the adoption of the dramatization of the third degree upon the recommendation of Past Grand Master, M.'. W.'. WILLIAM M . SHAVER, February 16, 1898, it was made pkin in his report on this subject that-its use was left optional with the lodges, thereby granting to every lodge the right to so confer the third degree. There was no authority granted or implied for any lodge to confer the dramatized, or any other portion of the ritual in any place other than their own particular lodge room, and it certainly did not contemplate that self-constituted degree teams would be created for itinerant, or other purposes, and assume authority not granted to lodges. After carefully reviewing this subject, taking into consideration the report of M.'. W.'. Brother SHAVER, your Grand Master takes the position that neither tradition, custom, nor the Constitution of the Grand Lodge contemplates that authority for conferring the several degrees can be delegated to any others than the regular officers in each and every lodge. However, where conditions warrant, the Master may, in case of a vacancy, invite some member or visiting brother who is a member in good standing in some other lodge, to fill such vacancy and assist in doing the Work. The rapid increase in the organization of these special degree teams and the ever increasing number of lodges being visited by them each year calls for some specific action on the part of the Grand Lodge, and I recommend that, hereafter, it be unlawful for any set of officers or so-called team to exemplify or confer any of the degrees in any lodge other than their own, except by permission of the Grand Master. IMPROVEMENTS AT THE KANSAS MASONIC HOME.
A number of years ago the Kansas Masonic Home Board erected a building separate from the main building of the Home to be used for isolating contagious diseases which might appear among the members of the Home. This was a wise provision as there are so many children in the Home at all times.
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
57
It later became necessary, on account of the increasing membership, to convert this building into a hospital to use for those of our Home members who needed medical and hospital attention. This building was therefore attached to and made a part of the main building and a second story added to provide the necessary rooms for hospital purposes. This, of course eliminated this building as an isolation cottage and since that time there has been no building where contagious cases could be isolated. We have been extremely fortunate that no disease of a serious nature has developed, there being at the present time 127 children on the rolls. This condition has been a source of much concern to those having the responsibility of the health of so many dependent upon them for proper care. It is indeed very important, and the Masons of Kansas cannot further delay in providing a building suitable for this purpose when it is in our power to remedy conditions. Several years ago, a fine barn was erected at the cost of about $20,000.00 in which to house the home dairy herd and was used for that purpose until about two years ago when a complaint was made by the surrounding neighborhood and the enforcement of a city ordinance which compelled us to dispose of the herd. This building has been unused since that time and the Board has planned to remodel this barn into an isolation cottage which can be used as an addition to our hospital in case of need, and when not used for isolation purposes. An architect was employed to report as to the feasibility of this plan, a rough sketch was prepared, showing it to be practicable in every way, not only in filling the great need, but in strict harmony with the architectural plan of the Home. The estimated cost of remodeling the building and fully equipping it will be about $20,000.00. The Masonic Home Board feels this important matter should not be delayed. Knowing the Masons of Kansas have never failed to meet an emergency, the Board felt justified in proceeding with plans and specifications. At the annual meeting, January 18th, bids were taken and a contract authorized in order that the work might be completed early this Spring. An investigation shows that with an appropriation of $5,000.00 by the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons for this purpose the Grand Lodge could appropriate approximately $4,000.00 from the Charity Fund and meet the balance by turning over from our invested funds the necessary amount to complete the cost of remodelling and equipping the above named building into an isolation cottage and hospital, and I so recommend. OUR MASONIC HOME.
The annual meeting of the Masonic Home Board was held at Wichita, Kansas, January 18, 1928, with all members present. Reports were received from the Secretary, all committees, the Superintendent and Matron. The Secretary's report will be submitted to the Grand Lodge today.
58
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
The Charity Fund of the Grand Lodge, which Is disbursed through the Home Board, shows a total of $4,702.50 paid out during the year ending December 31, 1927. The number of cases now being cared for outside of the Home is 22. During the year there have been 61 applications for admission to the Home approved by the Committee on Admission and Discharge. The average age of these: Men, 70 years, 9 months, 13 days; women, 68 years, 9 months, 10 days; boys, 10 years, 3 months; girls, 9 years, 8 months. There have been 22 deaths, all among the old people, divided as follows: 18 men, 4 women. There have been extensive repairs to buildings and improvements on grounds. The stucco has been repaired, pergolas rebuilt, many window sashes and frames repaired and all the exterior of buildings repainted with two coats. The front lawn was planted to Bermuda grass which made a good stand and will improve the appearance of the grounds very materially. Your Grand Master feels that he expresses the sentiment of the entire Board, in reporting that we have a competent Superintendent and Matron, with dependable and loyal assistants, all working together in harmony and endeavoring to carry out the policies of the Board and the wishes of the Grand Lodge. How the heart of every Mason in Kansas should swell with pride, and how thankful he should be that he has an opportunity of aiding and assisting his unfortunate brethren, their wives, widows and children in such a Home as they have provided and are supporting at Wichita, Kansas! The chief stones in the Temple of Freemasonry are Friendship, Fraternity, Charity and Brotherly Love. Many of our old people are far beyond the allotted three score and ten. In nearly every case they are quiet, inoffensive and orderly. They sit alone and think of the past, of the days when they could hold their own in the battle of life, picturing again and again the home, the fireside, the friends, the children and the days that were full of action. The wrinkled faces light up with a smile. Then comes the thought of old age, ill health, misfortune, ingratitude on the part of those for whom they have sacrificed. The smile fades and a feeling of loneliness and sorrow grips the heart. The loneliness of old age, when men are forced from active life and the association of friends, .is enough, without illness, misfortune and the ingratitude of those we love. The one bright spot in the lives of the old members of our Home is the thought that those of our great organization, who are more fortunate 'than they, have not forsaken them when they are old and dependent; that the Masons of Kansas will carry on, and that Masonic Friendship, Fraternity, Charity and Brotherly Love is not an empty dream, but a reality. There are at present 140 old people and 127 children on the rolls, a total of 267. Can we realize what is being accomplished? It all seems so distant and so unreal unless our own household or immediate
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
59
friends have been touched, or one has been in close touch as a member of the official family. Our Masonic Home is the most important work before the Masons of Kansas. Our obligations are constantly increasing. The applications each year for admission are more than for the year previous. Our Home is now crowded. We must begin to prepare for the inevitable. We must begin now to look into the future, and be prepared to meet the conditions which are bound to come and which even now are upon us. We must begin now to plan for new buildings. The first and most important step is the raising of the necessary funds to meet the emergency. When we erect new buildings we should plan for the future. It is estimated that the cost of building and equipping new buildings such as we should erect, is in the neighborhood of $450,000.00. When the plans are made, they will, of course, be submitted to the Grand Lodge for their information. There is but one way in which to meet the situation which confronts us, an assessment upon the membership. In the opinion of your Grand Master, to distribute this assessment over a term of five years is a better plan than to wait until we are face to face with the immediate need, and then make an assessment to cover the necessary amount. Therefore, for the purpose of establishing and erecting necessary buildings to provide accommodations for the increased demands on our Masonic Home, I recommend that a special assessment of $1.00 for each member borne on the rolls of the lodges be made annually for five years, including the year 1928, and that said assessment shall be paid with the annual dues and fees to the Grand Lodge and turned over to the Masonic Home at such time and under such conditions as the Grand Lodge may hereafter direct. It can be done; it will be done; it must be done, and the Masons of Kansas will do it. They have never failed to meet a situation, and they never will. Men build a road of Masonry Across the hills and dales Unite the prairie and the sea. The mountains and the vales. They cross the chasm, bridge the stream, They point to where the turrets gleam. And many men for many a day • Who seek the heights shall find the way. Men build a road of Masonry, But not for self they build; With footsteps of humanity The hearts of men are thrilled. This music makes their labor sweet: The endless tramp of other feet. The thought that men shall travel thus An easier road because of us.
60
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
We build a Home for Masonry With other men in mind; We do not build for you and me, We build for all mankind. We build a Home!—remember men Build not for Now, but build for Then, And other men who walk the way Shall see the home we build today. Who builds a Home for Masonry, Though small or great his part, However hard the task may be. May toil with singing heart. For it is something, after all. When muscles tire and shadows fall. To know that other men shall bless The builder for his faithfulness. ILLEGAL TRIAL.
On November 6, 1926, charges were preferred by Parker Lodge No. 341 against Brother LESTER C . BROWNBECK, a member of that lodge. Notice was served by the lodge on the accused who was at that time confined in the State Penitentiary at Lansing. Trial was had before the lodge December 4, 1926, and the brother expelled. Under our law governing trial procedure, all trials must be held before the Commissioners of Trials. Ruled: The trial of Brother BROWNBECK was illegal and he must be restored to the roll of membership. DECISIONS.
Jurisdiclion—Haskell
Institute.
During the year, the question arose concerning the right of the lodges in Lawrence to receive petitions from persons associated with and located on the Haskell Institute Reservation. My decision is largely predicated on the practice of the lodges in the City of Leavenworth receiving petitions from men stationed on the United States Military Reservation at Fort Leavenworth prior to the chartering of Hancock Lodge No. 311 on February 20, 1889, which lodge is located at the Post. Prior to this, lodges in the City of Leavenworth received petitions from men stationed at the Post. This was based on Section 2, Article VI, of the Constitution. Union Lodge No. 7, at Junction City, occupies the same position with Fort Riley as the lodges at Leavenworth, before the establishment of Hancock Lodge. While the Haskell Institute Reservation is not
1927-28.
GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS.
61
military, it occupies relatively the same position to the State of Kansas as any other Government Reservation. I therefore rendered the following decision: " A resident at, or on, the Haskell Institute Reservation can legally petition any lodge located in the City of Lawrence, Kansas, unless he has other fixed legal residence, in which case, under Section 2, Article VI, of the Constitution, he can only petition a Lawrence lodge as a Sojourner". Rejected Petitioner—Jurisdiction. Question: A Petition for the Mysteries of Masonry was rejected in a lodge not having jurisdiction. Can he petition in the lodge having jurisdiction in less than six months. , Answer: The action of the lodge first receiving the petition was a nullity. The whole proceeding was illegal, therefore null and void. The candidate may petition the lodge in whose jurisdiction he resides at any time. CONCLUSION.
The year's work is before you. I have appreciated not only the honor, but the opportunity of serving. I desire to express my heartfelt thanks to all who have labored with me and for the almost universal cooperation of all with whom I have come in touch. The Grand Secretary has received the earnest thanks of each Grand Master during his many years of service and to this I desire to add mine. His modesty forbids further personal reference. What is there about Masonry that so commands the time, ability and sacrifice of the high and low, the rich and poor? What mysterious tie binds us together in this great Brotherhood? One writer has said "perhaps it is a golden strand from the great cable-tow of GoD, running from heart to heart; a cable-tow that will eventually encircle the globe, uniting all humanity into one universal family of love". Some are more willing to serve than others. Some have greater opportunity. I love the great institution of Masonry. I have always been willing and shall always be anxious to serve. I thank my brethren for the opportunity. I'd like to think when life is done That I had filled a needed post, That here and there I'd paid my fare With more than idle talk and boast. That I had taken gifts divine. The breath of life and manhood fine. And tried to use them now and then In service to my fellow men.
62
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
I'd hate to think when life is through That I had lived my round of years, A useless kind that leaves behind, No record in this "vale of tears", That I had wasted all my days. In treading only selfish ways And that the world would be the same. If it had never known my name. I'd like to think that here and there When I am gone there shall remain A happier spot that might have not Existed, had I lived for gain. That some one's cheery voice and smile Shall prove that I have been worth while. That I had paid with something fine. My debt to GOD for life Divine. Fraternally submitted, CHARLES N . FOWLER,
Grand Master.
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
63
INTRODUCTION OF BROTHER VALENTINE V. ADAMSON.
During the reading of his address the Grand Master paused for a short time in order to yield the floor to the Grand Secretary for the purpose of introducing possibly the oldest living Mason in our Grand Jurisdiction. The Grand Secretary then introduced to the Grand Master and the Grand Lodge Brother VALENTINE V . ADAMSON, better known as Doctor ADAMSON, now ninetyfive years of age, and who has been a Mason almost seventy-three years. Brother ADAMSON was made a Mason in Nevada, Iowa, in May, 1855, and has the distinction of having lived in four different territories, which later became the states of Missouri, Iowa, Colorado and Kansas. He took an active part in the establishment of Masonry in Jackson County, Kansas, and transferred his membership to Holton Lodge No. 42, of Holton, Kansas, in 1874, thereby being a member of that lodge continuously for more than fiftythree years. This venerable brother and Mason was given an ovation by the Grand Lodge through loud and prolonged applause. In acknowledgment of the welcome extended, Brother ADAMSON made a brief talk, explaining to the Grand Lodge that owing to his advanced age his voice was rather weak, but he wished to express to them his feeling of gratitude for this high honor, assuring them that Masonry to the pioneers and during the trying days of the war meant much more than it does today. Notwithstanding his age Doctor ADAMSON explained that he had a noonday engagement at a hospital and therefore asked to be excused for the balance of the forenoon.
64
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
R E P O R T OF COUNCIL OF ADMINISTRATION.
R.-. W.-. JAY B . KIRK, Secretary of the Council of Ad-' ministration, submitted the following report, which was accepted on order of the Grand Master with consent of the Grand Lodge: WICHITA, KANSAS, February 24, 1927.
To The M:. W:.Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: The Council of Administration met in Wichita, Kansas, at 1:30 P. M., February 24, 1927, with members present as follows: M.-.W.-.CHARLES N . FOWLER, R . - . W . - . F E R R I S M . HILL, R . - . W . - . GEORGE F . BEEZLEY and R.'.W.-.JAY B . K I R K . Organization was
effected by the election of the following officers:
M.'. W.\ CHARLES N .
FOWLER, President, and R.'. W . - . J A Y B . KIRK, Secretary.
The Masonic Home Board was authorized to dispense Masonic charity during the ensuing year in the same manner as has been customary heretofore. M.'.W.'. JOHN W . NEILSON was elected a member of the Masonic Home Board for a term of four years, to succeed M.-.W.-.ELMER F . STRAIN.
. The sum of $150.00 was appropriated and ordered paid to W.'. ROBERT P. MCCOLLOCH for his services in preparing the Special Address for 1927. A new District was created to be known as District No. 76, to be composed of the following lodges transferred from the respective Districts as indicated: Ben Hur Lodge No. 322 transferred from District No. 4. Rosedale Lodge No. 333 transferred from District No. 4. Turner Lodge No. 425 transferred from District No. 4. Shawnee Lodge No. 54 transferred from District No. 5. Overland Park Lodge No. 436 transferred from District No. 5. Antiquity Lodge No. 280 having been granted a charter at the last Grand Lodge Communication, was placed in District No. 32. Grinnell Lodge No. 448, having been granted a charter at the last Grand Lodge Communication, was placed in District No. 51. Pretty Prairie Lodge No. 428 was transferred from District No. 41 to District No. 42. The Grand Secretary was authorized to purchase five hundred members' aprons for the Grand Lodge. JAY B . KIRK,
Secretary.
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
65
ToPEKA, KANSAS, June 16, 1927. On account of the arrest of the charter of Shawnee Lodge No. 54, the Council of Administration on April 6, 1927, authorized the special appropriation of an amount not to exceed $600.00 for the purpose of discharging the outstanding obligations of said lodge. At the last Communication of the Grand Lodge, the charter of Brainerd Lodge No. 280 was revoked. The Council of Administration on April 6, 1927, authorized the expenditure by the Grand Secretary of $400.00, or as much thereof as may be necessary, to discharge the outstanding obligations of said lodge. The Council of Administration met in the ofRce of the Grand Secretary in Topeka, Kansas, at 9:00 A. M., June 16,1927, with members present as follows: M.-.W.-.CHARLES N . FOWLER, R.-.W.".FERRIS M . HILL, R . - . W . - . GEORGE F . BEEZLEY and R.-. W.'. JAY B . K I R K ,
On motion, the Grand Master was authorized to enter into a contract with some responsible bonding company covering a blanket surety bond embracing all lodges in this Grand Jurisdiction in an appropriate amount for each lodge, the details of said contract to be worked out to the satisfaction of the M.'.W.\Grand Master and the R.'.W.-. Grand Secretary. JAY B . KIRK,
Secretary.
66
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
GRAND TREASURER'S REPORT.
R.-.W.-.WILLIAM FRANK MARCH, Grand Treasurer, submitted the following report, which, on motion of W.-. JOHN M . KINKEL, was referred to the Committee on Reports of Grand Officers: To The M:. W.-.Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: The following report of the receipts and disbursements of Grand Lodge funds is fraternally submitted: LAWRENCE, KANSAS, February 1, 1928. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH, Grand Treasurer, In account with T H E M.-. W . - . GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS. GENERAL FUND.
Receipts. 1927. Mar. 1.—Balance on hand $ 30,371 64 Received from Grand Secretary as per receipts Nos. 1 to 88 105,431 89 $135,803 53 Disbursements. 1927-1928.—Warrants paid Nos. 1 to 465 except Nos. 128, 129, 130, 406 and 411 $ 99,693 25 Transferred to Charity Fund.... 4,425 39 Balance on hand 31,684 89 $135,803 53 CHARITY F U N D .
Receipts. 1927. Mar. 1.—Balance on hand $ 11,242 41 Transferred from General Fund.... 4,425 39 $ 15,667 80 Disbursements. 1927-1928.—Warrants Nos. 128, 129, 130, 406 and 411, $ 7,207 50 Balance on hand 8,460 30 $ 15,667 80
1927-2S.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
67
BOND ACCOUNT.
1927. Feb. 1.—Total amount bonds on hand Purchased during 1927 Transferred to Masonic Home Endowment Fund Bond No. 15, Greenwood County, Matured and Collected U. S. Treasury Savings Certificates Collected
$61,200 00 5,000 00
$66,200 00
52,000 00 500 00 1,200 00
1928 Feb. i.—Total amount bonds on hand
$53,700 00 $12,500 00
I have in my hands the following bonds purchased by the Council of Administration: School District No. 50, No. 7, dated Jan. No. 6, dated Jan. No. 5, dated Jan. No. 4, dated Jan. No. 3, dated Jan. No. 2, dated Jan. No. 1, dated Jan.
Brown County, bearing 6 % interest: 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1933 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1934 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1935 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1936 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1937 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1938 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1939
500 500 500 500 500 500 500
00 00 00 00 00 00 00
$ 1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000
00 00 00 00
E01953305 F01953306 G01953307 K01632330 A01632331
$ 1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000
00 00 00 00 00
Total
$12,500 00
Board of Education, City of Lamed, bearing 5% interest: No. 33, dated Jan. 1, 1914, due July 1, 1933 No. 34, dated Jan. 1, 1914, due July 1, 1933 No. 35, dated Jan. 1, 1914, due July 1, 1933 No. 36, dated Jan. 1, 1914, due July 1, 1933
$
U. S. Fourth Liberty Loan Bonds bearing lt)4,% interest, due October 15, 1938, as follows: No. No. No. No. No.
Fraternally submitted, WILLIAM FRANK MARCH,
Grand Treasurer.
68
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
GRAND SECRETARY'S REPORT. R.-.W.-. ALBERT K . WILSON, submitted the following report, which, on motion of R.-.W.•.GEORGE F . BEEZLEY, was referred to the Committee on Reports of Grand Officers: To The M:. W:. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: Under the laws of the Grand Lodge the Grand Secretary is required to render a report covering the more important transactions of his office, and the following is therefore submitted for consideration at this Annual Communication: PROCEEDINGS 1 9 2 7 .
The Annual Proceedings for 1927 were printed and distributed within the usual time after the close of our last Annual Communication. HISTORICAL REGISTRY AND ABSTRACT.
Our historical registry and abstract books were posted up to date during the year from the 1926 reports. CHARTERS ISSUED.
At the last Annual Communication charters were authorized for the formation of the following new lodges: ' Antiquity Lodge No. 280.—On March 17, 1927, R.-. W.-. RICHARD H. CRAVENS, Special Deputy Grand Master, consecrated, dedicated and constituted this lodge, with the following officers: VICTOR L . OWENS
JOHN A. ANDERSON ARTHUR H . LONG HARRY C . MILLER
IRA M . HASSLEB ALLISON D . HASSLER FRANCIS D . BRENNER CHALMERS E . HASSLER THOMAS STAM... JAMES H . FULLERTON
Master
'.
Senior Warden Junior Warden Treasurer
Secretary Senior Deacon Junior Deacon Senior Steward Junior Steward Tyler
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
69
Grinnell Lodge No. U8.—On March 28, 1927, R.-. W.-. BENJAMIN H. FLYR, Special Deputy Grand Master, consecrated, dedicated and constituted this lodge, with the following officers: ARTHUR M . W E I R
Master
D E L L A. BORAH WILLIAM A. SHIRKEY
Senior Warden Junior Warden
JOHN E . BORAH EARL W . DAVIS
Treasurer Secretary
RALPH D . HOLLIBAUGH EDGAR J. PETERSON
Senior Deacon Junior Deacon
Ross L. GALLION
Senior Steward
ALAN W . CHENEY
Junior Steward
TRUEMAN H . PARR
Tyler
LODGE UNDER DISPENSATION.
Whitewater Lodge, at Whitewater, Butler County.—Dispensation sued May 16, 1927. Officers:
is-
PAUL ROSS, Master; LEWIS S. FOSTER,
Senior Warden; Ross C. MERTZ, Junior Warden. VOLUME XX.
Immediately after the issuance of our 1927 Proceedings the unbound copies of our journal for the years 1925, 1926 and 1927 were bound in the customary uniform style, making Volume XX. One copy was mailed to each lodge on September 19, 1927, and to all others entitled thereto. HALLS BURNED.
On August 28, 1927, the building in which Kickapoo Lodge No. 4 of Potter held their Communications was totally destroyed by fire, involving the loss of their charter and practically all the lodge property. Fortunately the charter was a copy of the original which is on file in the archives of the Grand Lodge, and on October 6, 1927, another certified copy was sent this lodge, as well as a file of Proceedings, laws, Book of Annual Returns and necessary blanks. On August 25, 1927, the hall of Mystic Tie Lodge No. 74 of Augusta, Kansas, was destroyed by fire. Most of the property, the photographic copy of their charter and the records were saved. On August 16,1927, the hall of Meriden Lodge No. 236 of Meriden, Kansas, was destroyed by fire, including all their lodge property, except the records. The charter, however, being a copy (the original having been destroyed by fire some years ago) was burned. On September 8, 1927, another certified copy was sent this lodge. The foregoing again emphasizes the desirability of every lodge in our jurisdiction having a fireproof cabinet in which to file their important records. Without doubt there is not a single lodge working under the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge which could not afford t o
70
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
purchase one of these fireproof cabinets as the cost is much less than for the old style safe. They are so constructed that it gives these important records absolute protection in case of fire. MEMBERS OP LATE BRAHSTERD LODGE NO. 2 8 0 SUBJECT TO SUSPENSION.
The following members of late Brainerd Lodge No. 280 have failed to pay their dues and make application for a Grand Secretary's certificate and are therefore subject to suspension at this Annual Communication under By-Law 62 of the Grand Lodge laws: BANKS, NEWTON A. BREISING, FRED., J R . BROOKS, HENRY J. BELFORD, JAMES G . BURDOCK, EARL H . CLINE, IRA E . DuTTON, C. PAUL FITCH, ARTHUR FuQUA, JOHN H .
^
HANSTINE, D A N I E L L . IVES, GRAN F . KILPATRICK, DAVID E . KIRKWOOD, ROBERT G . , J R . MORGAN, EDWARD A. NEIMAN, ISAAC O . PACE, LEANDER M . SHEPPARD, HOWARD F . SPRINGER, WALTER R .
RESTORATION OF CHARTERS.
During the year the original charters or copies of charters (where lost or destroyed) of the following lodges have been properly restored wherever necessary and certified photographic copies made, framed and sent to each lodge, and the original or the copy placed on file in the archives of the Grand Lodge: Lawrence Lodge N o . 6, Lawrence (copy of original); Acacia Lodge No. 9, Lawrence (copy of original); Neosho Lodge No. 27, Le Roy (copy of original); Seneca Lodge No. 39, Seneca; Xenia Lodge No. 47, Xenia; Troy Lodge No. 55, Troy; Ridgeway Lodge No. 62, Overbrook; White Cloud Lodge No. 78, White Cloud (copy of original); Belleville Lodge No. 129, Belleville; Vesper Lodge No. 136, Sedan (copy of original); Reno Lodge No. 140, Hutchinson (copy of original); Wa-Keeney Lodge No. 148, Wa-Keeney (copy of original); Onaga Lodge No. 188, Onaga (copy of original); Harper Lodge No. 206, Harper (copy of orginial); Lewis Lodge No. 220, Lewis; Axtell Lodge No. 234, Axtell; Meriden Lodge No. 236, Meriden (copy of original); Peace Lodge No. 243, Louisburg; Canopy Lodge No. 248, Grenola; Kaw Lodge No. 272, Kansas City (copy of original); Antiquity Lodge No. 280, Chapman; Kiowa Lodge No. 293, Greensburg; Glen Elder Lodge No. 294, Glen Elder; Naphtali Lodge No. 310, Almena; Norwich Lodge No. 319, Norwich; Ben Hur Lodge No. 322, Kansas City; Gypsum City Lodge No. 328, Gypsum; Maple City Lodge No. 342, Maple City; Olive Lodge No. 350, Elgin; Cuba Lodge No. 362, Cuba; Morrill Lodge No. 373, Morrill; Grainfield Lodge No. 381, Grainfield; Protection Lodge No. 384, Protection; Latham Lodge No. 401, Latham; Hugoton Lodge No. 406, Hugoton;
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE OF KANSAS.
71
Quinter Lodge No. 410, Quinter; Morland Lodge No. 414, Morland; King David Lodge No. 416, Chanute; Grinnell Lodge No. 448, GrinneU. COMPLETE LIST OF CHARTERS FILED.
The list of all lodges whose charters have been placed on file in the archives of the Grand Lodge is again submitted in order that we may have a continuous permanent record covering this subject; Smithton Lodge No. 1, Highland; Leavenworth Lodge No. 2, Leavenworth; Kickapoo Lodge No. 4, Potter; Washington Lodge No. 5, Atchison; La'wrence Lodge No. 6, Lawrence (copy of original); Union Lodge No. 7, Junction City; Acacia Lodge No. 9, Lawrence (copy of original); King Solomon Lodge No. 10, Leavenworth; Jewell Lodge No. 11, Jewell; Emporia Lodge No. 12, Emporia; Oskaloosa Lodge No. 14, Oskaloosa (copy of original); Great Bend Lodge No. 15, Great Bend; Lafayette Lodge No. 16, Manhattan; Topeka Lodge No. 17, Topeka; Ottawa Lodge No. 18, Ottawa; Olathe Lodge No. 19, Olathe; Grasshopper Falls (Valley Falls) Lodge No. 21, Valley Falls; Melvern Lodge No. 22, Melvern (copy of original); Palmyra Lodge No. 23, Baldwin; Osage Valley Lodge No. 24, Osawatomie; Oketo Lodge No. 25, Oketo; Neosho Lodge No. 27, Le Roy (copy of original); Pacific Lodge No. 29, Humboldt; Towanda Lodge No. 30, Towanda; Arcana Lodge No. 31, Doniphan; Auburn Lodge No. 32, Auburn; Mound City Lodge No. 83, Mound City; Havensville Lodge No. 34, Havensville; Hiawatha Lodge No. 35, Hiawatha; Council Grove Lodge No. 36, Council Grove; Paola Lodge No. 37, Paola; Tola Lodge No. 38, lola; Seneca Lodge No. 39, Seneca; DeSoto Lodge No. 40, DeSoto; Holton Lodge No. 42, Holton; Nickerson Lodge No; 43, Nickerson; Delphian Lodge No. 44, Garnett; Easton Lodge No. 45, Easton; Xenia Lodge No. 47, Xenia; Nine Mile Lodge No. 49, Lansing; Lake Lodge No. 50, Silver Lake; Orient Lodge No. 51, Topeka; Pottawatomie Lodge No. 52, St. Marys; Wetmore Lodge No. 53, Wetmore; Troy Lodge No. 55, Troy; McCracken Lodge No. ' 58, McCracken; Saltville Lodge No. 59, Barnard; Salina Lodge No. 60, Salina; LaCygne Lodge No. 61, LaCygne (copy, original burned); Ridgeway Lodge No. 62, Overbrook; Adams Lodge No. 63, Oswego; Wathena Lodge No. 64, Wathena; Burlington Lodge No. 66, Burhngton; Frankfort Lodge No. 67, Frankfort; Hiram Lodge No. 68, Leavenworth; Altamont Lodge No. 69, Altamont; Carbondale Lodge No. 70, Carbondale; Baxter Lodge No. 71, Baxter Springs; Mystic Tie Lodge No. 74, Augusta; Wamego Lodge No. 75, Wamego; Erie Lodge No. 76, Erie; Delta Lodge No. 77, Medicine Lodge; White Cloud Lodge No. 78, White Cloud (copy of original); Corinthian Lodge No. 79, Burlingame; Zeredatha Lodge No. 80, Cottonwood Falls; New Albany Lodge No. 81, New Albany; Doric Lodge No. 83, Eudora; Sutton Lodge No. 85, Waterville; Sunflower Lodge No. 86, Wichita; Eureka Lodge No. 88, Pleasanton; Home Lodge No. 89, Centralia; Golden Rule Lodge No. 90, North Topeka; Marysville Lodge No. 91,
72
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Marysville; Girard Lodge No. 93, Girard; Constellation Lodge No. 95, Fredonia; Patmos Lodge No. 97, El Dorado; Benevolent Lodge No. 98, Abilene; Wichita Lodge No. 99, Wichita; Euclid Lodge No. 101, Lyndon; Keystone Lodge No. 102, Coffeyville; Cedar Lodge No. 103, Chanute; Frontier Lodge No. 104, Washington; Fortitude Lodge No. 107, Independence (copy of original); Winfield Lodge No. 110, Winfield; Hesperian Lodge No. I l l , Rossville; Blue Valley Lodge No. 112, Irving; St. John's Lodge No. 113, Concordia; Advance Lodge No. 114, Florence (copy of original); Muscotah Lodge No. 116, Muscotah; Parsons Lodge No. 117, Parsons; Halcyon Lodge No. 120, Peabody; Clifton Lodge No. 122, Clifton; Republic Lodge No. 123, Republic; Meridian Lodge No. 126, Elk Falls; Palestine Lodge No. 127, Edgerton; Belleville Lodge No. 129, Belleville; Carson Lodge No. 132, Elk City; Crescent Lodge No. 133, Arkansas City; Clay Center Lodge No. 134, Clay Center; Vesper Lodge No. 136, Sedan (copy of original); Cherryvale Lodge No. 137, Cherryv le; Dover Lodge No. 138, Dover; Reno Lodge No. 140, Hutchinson (copy of original); Signal Lodge No. 141, Osage City; Newton Lodge No. 142, Newton; Minneapolis Lodge No. 143, Minneapolis; Gilead Lodge No. 144, Yates Center; Mt. Vernon Lodge No. 145, Beloit; Ellsworth Lodge No. 146, Ellsworth; Center Lodge No. 147, Marion; Wa-Keeney Lodge No. 148, Wa-Keeney (copy of original); Thayer Lodge No. 149, Thayer; Wellington Lodge No. 150, Wellington; Douglass Lodge No. 151, Douglass; Lebo Lodge No. 152, Lebo; Luray Lodge No. 153, Luray; Dexter Lodge No. 156, Dexter; Haven Lodge No. 157, South Haven (copy of original); Active Lodge No. 158, Atchison; Robinson Lodge No. 159, Robinson (copy of original); Saqui Lodge No. 160,. Osborne; Sabetha Lodge No. 162, Sabetha; Greenwood Lodge No. 163, Fall River; Oxford Lodge No. 165, Oxford; Farmers Lodge No. 166, Randolph; Larned Lodge No. 167, Larned; Parkerville Lodge No. 168, Parkerville; McPherson Lodge No. 172, McPherson; Belle Plaine Lodge No. 173, Belle Plaine; Western Star Lodge No. 174, Smith Center; Kirwin Lodge No. 175, Kirwin; Prairie Queen Lodge No. 176, Clyde; Burr Oak Lodge No. 178, Burr Oak; Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 179, Kinsley; Burrton Lodge No. 182, Burrton; Mountain Slope Lodge No. 186, Oberlin; Pittsburg Lodge No. 187, Pittsburg; Onaga Lodge'No. 188, Onaga (copy of original); Newahcuba Lodge No. 189, Stockton; Henri Lodge No. 190, Tonganoxie; Walnut Valley Lodge No. 191, Ness City (copy of original); Royal Lodge No. 192, Lyons; Galena Lodge No. 194, Galena; Hays Lodge No. 195, Hays; Madison Lodge No. 196, Madison; Canton Lodge No. 197, Canton; Blue Hill Lodge No. 198, Lucas; Anthony Lodge No. 200, Anthony; Delphos Lodge No. 202, Delphos; Sumner Lodge No. 203, Caldwell; Downs Lodge No. 204, Downs; Harper Lodge No. 206, Harper (copy of original); Friendship Lodge No. 208, Haven; Fulton Lodge No. 210, Fulton; Greeley Lodge No. 211, Greeley (copy of original); Olive Branch Lodge No. 212, Colony; Twin Grove Lodge
1927-28.
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LODGE
OF KANSAS.
73
No. 213, Severy; Walnut City Lodge No. 215, Rush Center; Ellinwood Lodge No. 217, EUinwood; Corner Stone Lodge No. 219, Little River; Lewis Lodge No. 220, Lewis; Lebanon Lodge No. 221, Scandia; St. Bernard Lodge No. 222, Dodge City; Joppa Lodge No. 223, Leon; Anchor Lodge No. 224, WiUiamsburg; Siloam Lodge No. 225, Topeka; Jamestown Lodge No. 227, Jamestown; Vulcan Lodge No. 229, Walnut; Ninnescah Lodge No. 230, Kingman; Long. Island Lodge No. 231, Long Island; Greenleat Lodge No. 232, Greenleaf; Clinton Lodge No. 233, Burden; Axtell Lodge No. 234, Axtell; Meriden Lodge No. 236, Meriden (copy of original); Temple Lodge No. 237, McCune; Urbana Lodge No. 239, Urbana; Soldier Lodge No. 240, Soldier; Linwood Lodge No. 241, Linwood; Miltonvale Lodge No. 242, Miltonvale; Peace Lodge No. 243, Louisburg; Marmaton Lodge No. 245, Moran; Tyrian Lodge No. 246, Garden City; Canopy Lodge No. 248,' Grenola; Whiting Lodge No. 250, Whiting; Galva Lodge No. 251, Galva; Oakley Lodge No. 253, Oakley; Ionic Lodge No. 254, St. John; Milan Lodge No. 255, Milan; Westmoreland Lodge No. 257, Westmoreland; Morton Lodge No. 258, Cheney; Beattie Lodge No. 259, Beattie; Mulberry Lodge No. 261, Mulberry; Attica Lodge No. 262, Attica; Kilwinning Lodge No. 265, Pratt; Mount Zion Lodge No. 266, Nortonville; Mistletoe Lodge No. 269, Conway Springs; Armourdale Lodge No. 271, Kansas City; Kaw Lodge No. 272, Kansas City (copy of original); Unity Lodge No. 273, Clearwater; Black Diamond Lodge No. 274, Weir; Windom Lodge No. 276, Windom; Barney Lodge No. 279, Dighton; Antiquity Lodge No. 280, Chapman; Alpha Lodge No. 282, Jetmore; Preston Lodge No. 283, Cimarron; Anthem Lodge No. 284, Scott City; Argonia Lodge No. 285, Argonia; Lotus Lodge No. 286. Blue Mound; Oak Lodge No. 287, Lebanon; Cyrus Lodge No. 288, Hope; Emerald Lodge No. 289, Lakin; Paradise Lodge No. 290, Plainville; Beulah Lodge No. 291, Bunker Hill; Glaseo Lodge No. 292, Glasco; Kiowa Lodge No. 293, Greensburg; Glen Elder Lodge No. 294, Glen Elder; Highland Lodge No. 296, Green; Apollo Lodge No. 297, Ellis; Samaria Lodge No. 298, Wilson; Cable Lodge No. 299, Arlington; Fargo Lodge No. 300, Liberal; Hamilton Lodge No. 301, Hamilton; Gove City Lodge No. 302, Gove; Albert Pike Lodge No. 303, Wichita; Avon Lodge No. 305, Westphaha; St. Thomas Lodge No. 306, Colby; Kansas Lodge No. 307, Herington; Alden Lodge No. 308, Alden; Syracuse Lodge No. 309, Syracuse; Naphtali Lodge No. 310, Almena;. Hancock Lodge No. 311, Ft. Leavenworth; Santa Fe Lodge No. 312, Sublette; Severance Lodge No. 313, Severance; Norcatur Lodge No. 317, Norcatur; Wallace Lodge No. 318, Wallace; Norwich Lodge No. 319, Norwich; Vermillion Lodge No. 320, VermilHon; Ben Hur Lodge No. 322, Kansas City; Caney Lodge No. 324, Caney; La Harpe Lodge No. 325, La Harpe; Horton Lodge No. 326, Horton; Gypsum City Lodge No. 328, Gypsum; Arcadia Lodge No. 329, Arcadia; LaCrosse Lodge No. 330, LaCrosse; Rob Morris Lodge No. 332,
74
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
Preston; Allen Lodge No. 335, Allen; Formoso Lodge No. 336, Formoso; Frederick Lodge No. 337, Frederick; Leoti Lodge No. 340, Leoti; Maple City Lodge No. 342, Maple City; Holyrood Lodge No. 343, Holyrood; Ashlar Lodge No. 344, Riley; Edna Lodge No. 345, Edna; Moundridge Lodge No. 346, Moundridge; Spivey Lodge No. 347, Spivey; Olive Lodge No. 350, Elgin; Scammon Lodge No. 351, Scammon; Horace Lodge No. 352, Horace; Marquette Lodge No. 353, Marquette; Summerfield Lodge No. 354, Summerfield; Chautauqua Lodge No. 355, Cedar Vale; Wellsville Lodge No. 356, Wells^^lle; Alta Vista Lodge No. 357, Alta Vista; Turon Lodge No. 358, Turon; Sylvan Grove Lodge No. 359, Sylv?in Grove; Jennings Lodge No. 360, Jennings; Geneseo Lodge No. 361, Geneseo; Cuba Lodge No. 362, Cuba; Powhattan Lodge No. 363, Powhattan; Valley Center Lodge No. 364, Valley Center; Bonner Springs Lodge No. 366, Bonner Springs; Plains Lodge No. 367, Plains; Stohrville Lodge No. 368, Bluff City; Roger E. Sherman Lodge No. 369, Kansas City; Maple Hill Lodge No. 370, Maple Hill; Macksville Lodge No. 371, Macksville; Morrill Lodge No. 378, Morrill; Delavan Lodge No. 375, Delavan; Grand View Lodge No. 376, Buckhn; Waldron Lodge No. 377, Waldron; Zenda Lodge No. 378, Zenda; Buffalo Lodge No. 379, Buffalo; White City Lodge No. 380, White City; Grainfield Lodge No. 38i; Grainfleld; Wilsey Lodge No. 382, Wilsey; McDonald Lodge No. 383, McDonald; Protection Lodge No. 384, Protection; Tyro Lodge No. 386, Tyro; Emmett Lodge No. 387, Emmett; Spearville Lodge No. 388, Spearville; Natoma Lodge No. 390, Natoma; Fostoria Lodge No. 392, Fostoria; Saffordville Lodge No. 895, Saffordville; Wakefield Lodge No. 396, Wakefield; Lindsbcrg Lodge No. 397, Lindsborg; Mullinville Lodge No. 399, Mullinville: Melody Lodge No. 400, Ottawa; Latham Lodge No. 401, Latham; Wakarusa Lodge No. 402, Wakarusa; St. Francis Lodge No. 404, St. Francis; Kensington Lodge No. 405, Kensington; Hugoton Lodge No. 406, Hugoton; Scranton Lodge No. 407, Scranton; Arma Lodge No. 408, Arma; Haviland Lodge No. 409, Haviland; Quinter Lodge No. 410, Quinter; Climax Lodge No. 411, CHmax; Wilmore Lodge No. 412, Wilmore; Morland Lodge No. 414, Morland; Perry Lodge No. 415, Perry; King David Lodge No. 416, Chanute; Sharon Springs Lodge No. 417, Sharon Springs; Codell Lodge No. 418, Codell; Delia Lodge No. 419, DeHa; Lecompton Lodge No. 420, Lecompton; Selden Lodge No. 423, Selden; Claflin Lodge No. 424, Clafiin; Turner Lodge No. 425, Turner; Burdick Lodge No. 429, Burdick; Goff Lodge No. 430, Goff; Minneola Lodge No. 431, Minneola; Deerfield Lodge No. 432, Deerfield; Bestor G. Brown Lodge No. 433, Wichita; Rosalia Lodge No. 434, Rosalia; Ulysses Lodge No. 435, Ulysses; Overland Park Lodge No. 436, Overland Park; West Gate Lodge No. 438, Kansas City; Beaumont Lodge No. 439, Beaumont; Bendena Lodge No. 440, Bendena; Johnson Lodge No. 441, Johnson; Rexford Lodge No. 442, Rexford; Kanorado Lodge No. 443, Kanorado; Stanley Lodge No. 444,
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
75
Stanley; Hutchinson Lodge No. 445, Hutchinson; Satanta Lodge No. 446, Satanta; Kingsdown Lodge No. 447, Kingsdown; Grinnell Lodge No. 448, Grinnell. As a matter of expediency, hereafter only the names of the'lodges whose charters or copies of charters have not been filed will be listed in this report. In several instances where the charters were only copies of the original, and in some cases where they were of late issue, your Grand Secretary suggested that they be not filed with the Grand Lodge. A few of the late lodges sent in their charters and a photograph was made of it but the original was returned to the lodge; however, after giving this matter due consideration and with a view of having all original charters, as well as the copies of those where duplicates have been issued, filed with the Grand Lodge your Grand Secretary would suggest that these lodges now send in their charters—whether they be original or simply a copy—and a certified photographic copy will be made, framed and sent to the lodges interested. In this way every lodge will have in their hall a certified photographic copy of their charter, uniformly framed. Through this system not only the charters but the negatives, properly indexed, are on file in the fireproof Grand Lodge Building and in case the copy furnished the lodge is destroyed another can easily be furnished from the negative. It is therefore hoped that the following lodges will comply with the suggestion of the Grand Secretary and forward their charter and that one year hence your Grand Secretary will have the pleasure of reporting that all charters have been sent in: Wyandotte Lodge No. 3, Kansas City (copy of original); Rising Sun Lodge No. 8, Fort Scott (copy of original); Nemaha Lodge No. 13, Corning; Circleville Lodge No. 20, Circleville; Longton Lodge No. 26, Longton (copy of original); Eldora Lodge No. 28, Mapleton (copy of original); McKinley Lodge No. 41, Pomona; Halstead Lodge No. 46, Halstead; Mackey Lodge No. 48, Effingham (copy of original); Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee (copy of original); Spring Hill Lodge No. 56, Spring Hill (copy of original); Coyville Lodge No. 57, Coyville; Gardner Lodge No. 65, Gardner (copy of original); Huron Lodge No. 72, Huron (copy of original); Chetopa Lodge No. 73, Chetopa (copy of original); Tuscan Lodge No. 82, Neosho Falls (copy of original); Jefferson Lodge No. 84, Winchester (copy of original); Mankato Lodge No. 87, Mankato (copy of original); Devon Lodge No. 92, Devon; Harmony Lodge No. 94, Neodesha; Delaware Lodge No. 96, White Church; Prudence Lodge No. 100, Columbus (copy of original); Solomon City Lodge No. 105, Solomon (copy of original); Fidelity Lodge No. 106, Eureka; Memphis Lodge No. 108, Garland; Americus Lodge No. 109, Americus (copy of original); Excelsior Lodge
76
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
No. 115, Uniontown (copy of original); Altoona Lodge No. 118, Altoona (copy of original); Cherokee Lodge No. 119, Cherokee (copy of original); Woodson Lodge No. 121, Toronto (copy of original); Godfrey Lodge No. 124, Farlington (copy of original); Cawker City Lodge No. 125, Cawker City; Munden Lodge No. 128, Munden; Polar Star Lodge No. 130, Netawaka; Equity Lodge No. 131, Fontana (copy of original); Lenexa Lodge No. 135, Lenexa (copy of original); Sedgwick Lodge No. 139, Sedgwick; Lincoln Lodge No. 154, Lincoln (copy of original); Hope Lodge No. 155, Howard (copy of original); Alma Lodge No. 161, Alma (copy of original); Atwood Lodge No. 164, Atwood; Blue Rapids Lodge No. 169, Blue Rapids; Fraternal Lodge No. 170, Linn; Sterling Lodge No. 171, Sterling (copy of original); Russell Lodge No. 177, Russell; Bennington Lodge No. 180, Bennington (copy of original); Lenora Lodge No. 181, Lenora (copy of original); Gaylord Lodge No. 183, Gaylord; Phillipsburg Lodge No. 184, Phillipsburg (copy of original); Hamlin Lodge No. 185, Hamlin; Hartford Lodge No. 193, Hartford (copy of original); Norton Lodge No. 199, Norton (copy of original); Mulvane Lodge No. 201, Mulvane; Eminence Lodge No. 205, Eskridge; Occidental Lodge No. 207, Alton; Brookville Lodge No. 209, Brookville (copy of original); Sincerity Lodge No. 214, Simpson (copy of original); Hiattville Lodge No. 216, Hiattville (copy of original); Landmark Lodge No. 218, Mound Valley; Dirigo Lodge No. 226, Haddam (copy of original); Salem Lodge No. 228, Esbon; Garfield Lodge No. 235, Leonardville; Mount Hope Lodge No. 238, Mount Hope; Waverly Lodge No. 244, Waverly; Chase Lodge No. 247, Chase (copy of original); Scottsville Lodge No. 249, Scottsville (copy of original); Stafford Lodge No. 252, Stafford (copy of original); Lyra Lodge No. 256, McLouth; Medicine Valley Lodge No. 260, Lake City; Charity Lodge No. 263, Hazelton (copy of original); Logan Lodge No. 264, Logan; Moline Lodge No. 267, Moline; Bourbon Lodge No. 268, Bronson (copy of original); Quenemo Lodge No. 270, Quenemo (copy of original); Webb Lodge No. 275, Meade (copy of original); Ashland Lodge No. 277, Ashland; Cosmos Lodge No. 278, Kiowa (copy of original); Millbrook Lodge No. 281, Hill City (copy of original); Comanche Lodge No. 295, Coldwater (copy of original); Randall Lodge No. 304, Randall; Hebron Lodge No. 314, Gridley; Virginia Lodge No. 315, Savonburg; Coohdge Lodge No. 316, Coolidge (copy of original); Goodland Lodge No. 321, Goodland (copy of original); Oneida Lodge No. 823, Oneida; Hoyt Lodge No. 327, Hoyt (copy of original); Hoisington Lodge No. 381, Hoisington (copy of original); Rosedale Lodge No. 333, Kansas City (copy of original); Oak Hill Lodge No. 334, Oak Hill (copy of original); Kincaid Lodge No. 338, Kincaid (copy of original); Lane Lodge No. 339, Lane (copy of original); Parker Lodge No. 341, Parker; Hoxie Lodge No. 348, Hoxie (copy of original); Narka Lodge No. 349, Narka (copy of original); Boling Lodge No. 365, Boling .(copy of original); Denison Lodge No. 372, Denison; Dwight Lodge No. 374, Dwight
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
77
(copy of original); Piper Lodge No. 385, Piper (copy of original); Freeport Lodge No. 389, Freeport (copy of original); Sylvia Lodge No. 391, Sylvia (copy of original); Mayetta Lodge No. 393, Mayetta (copy of original); Coats Lodge No. 394, Coats; Hepler Lodge No. 398, Hepler; Benedict Lodge No. 403, Benedict; Ensign Lodge No. 413, Ensign; Harveyville Lodge No. 421, Harveyville; Elkhart Lodge No. 422, Elkhart; Richmond Lodge No. 426, Richmond; Cunningham Lodge No. 427, Cunningham; Pretty Prairie Lodge No. 428, Pretty Prairie; Enterprise Lodge No. 437, Enterprise. DATA CONCERNING CHARTERS.
In order to emphasize the importance of filing charters in the archives of the Grand Lodge, and as conclusive proof that any argument in opposition to this system is not supported by facts or evidence, your Grand Secretary submits the following information on this subject: Exclusive of copies of charters issued a number of lodges which are now defunct, we have eighty-two lodges, or almost twenty per cent of the total enrollment, working under copies of original charters. Of this number, sixty-two were destroyed by fire; thirteen lodges lost their charters twice; Mount Zion Lodge No. 266 of Nortonville lost both charters by cyclone; Huron Lodge No. 72 of Huron lost three charters by fire; seven charters were lost or misplaced; five lost their original charters in cyclones; two charters were destroyed by water; two were stolen; one was defaced; one destroyed by mice; Lawrence Lodge No. 6 of Lawrence lost their original charter in the Quantrell Raid. The original charter of Mount Zion Lodge No. 266 of Nortonville was lost in a cyclone in May, 1886, and a duplicate copy was ordered issued by Grand Lodge February 16, 1887. This copy was destroyed in a wind storm and another copy issued April 13, 1889. On July 25,1925, the original charter was sent the Grand Secretary, but the Secretary of Mount Zion Lodge was unable to explain when this original charter was found and returned to the Lodge. This original charter was therefore placed on file and a photographic certified copy sent the Lodge. The second copy of the original charter is still missing. BOOKS OF" ANNUAL RETURNS.
At the close of the present year (1928) another five year period will have elapsed since the Books of Annual Returns were last sent the Grand Secretary for verification and correction. I t is therefore recommended that all lodges forward these books to the Grand Secretary, charges prepaid, when called for by him after the 1928 reports have been submitted. Secretaries must not forward these books with their annual reports for 1928, but retain them until they receive instructions from the Grand Secretary.
78
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
MASONIC DISTRICTS.
Owing to the location of the lodges in Districts No. 4 and No. 5, it was found necessary to create a new district to be known as District No. 76, and the following transfer of lodges was made: ;
Shawnee Lodge No. 54 from District No. 5 to new District No. 76. Ben Hur Lodge No. 322 from District No. 4 to new District No. 76. Rosedale Lodge No. 333 from District No. 4 to new District No. 76. Turner Lodge No. 425 from District No. 4 to new District No. 76. Overland Park Lodge No. 436 from District No. 5 to new District No. 76. As a matter of convenience in attending district meetings it was found necessary to make the following change in districts: Pretty Prairie Lodge No. 428 from District No. 41 to District No. 42. At the last Annual Communication charters were granted for the formation of two new lodges, and they were assigned to the following districts: Antiquity Lodge No. 280, to District No. 32. Grinnell Lodge No. 448, to District No. 51. CHANGES IN DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTERS.
Owing to vacancies in the office of District Deputy Grand Masters which occurred during the year, the Grand Master made the following appointments: District No.. 12 District No. 28
CLAUDE C . BACON.. HOLLY M . MILLER
Muscotah Howard
GRAND REPRESENTATIVES NEAR OTHER GRAND LODGES. During the year the following appointments were made as Grand Representatives of our Grand Lodge: District of Columbia ARTHUR L . BRYANT Washington England Illinois
KYNASTON STUDD GLENN GRISWOLD
Kentucky.,.,.
FRANK C . GERARD
Salvador
RAMON QUESADA
South Carolina
M. A. LANFORD
London Chicago
Bowling Green Sonsonate
,•,...Woodruff
GRAND REPRESENTATIVES NEAR OUR GRAND LODGE. Upon the recommendation of our M.\ W.'. Grand Master the following appointments of Grand Representatives were made during the year: Kentucky
ROBERT H . MONTGOMERY
Nevada
P H I L I P EUGENE STOTLER
Salvador Vermont
BENJAMIN F . H E I S HENRY WALLENSTEIN
Oswego Bethel
Leavenworth Wichita
1927-2
GRAND LODGE OF KAKSAS.
79
INDEXING PROCEEDI GS . In accordance with the usual custom, the Annual Proceedings of our Grand Lodge for 1927 were indexed, which brings this work up to date. OIL PAINTING OF M:. W:. OWEN A. BASSETT. The one outstanding figure in the annals of Masonry in this Grand Jurisdiction as a Masonic jurist and scholar is our late Past. Grand Master, M:. W:. OWEN A. BASSETT.
We are indebted to this distinguished brother for our present Constitution, the greater portion of our By-Laws and the notes to Laws, Landmarks, the Fifteen Articles, Fifteen Points, Fundamental
80
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Laws, Constitution of Edward III., and the Ancient Charges and Regulations. His notes of explanation under the various sections of our Constitution and By-Laws have become so valuable to the student seeking Masonic light through this channel that they have almost become landmarks in our jurisdiction. The wonderful knowledge of this profound student of Freemasonry is manifested through his notes under the Landmarks, Ancient Charges and Regulations, and the Constitution and By-Laws of our Grand Lodge. His store-house of Masonic wisdom was not confined to the laws and notes as contained in our present code, but from the time he first entered our Grand Lodge sixty years ago up to the time of his death in 1894, our Proceedings are replete with words of advice and counsel. While Brother BASSETT, through his untiring efforts in behalf of Freemasonry, has left a record seldom equalled by any of the great Masonic students of the ages and which will live forever in the hearts of his brethren, yet to the memory of this wonderful man and Mason there should be in our Grand Lodge Building a reflection of his personal appearance in life and with that thought in mind your Grand Secretary took the liberty of suggesting to Judge BASSETT'S home Lodge—Acacia Lodge No. 9 of Lawrence—that they contribute a life size painting in oil to be placed with that of our first Grand Master, M.'. W.\ RICHARD R . R E E S .
The lodge only needed an intimation of the importance of such a gift and they at once directed that the work be done in a manner befitting the character of this distinguished craftsman. Feeling that the other Masonic bodies in Lawrence might care to participate Acacia Lodge extended an invitation to all, and the following gladly responded: Lawrence Chapter No. 4, Lawrence Council No. 14, DeMolay Commandery No. 4. The painting was completed and permanently placed in our Grand Lodge Building on December 14, 1927. Our Grand Lodge is indebted to these bodies for this magnificent token of respect to the memory of M.-. W.'. Brother BASSETT. HISTORICAL CASES.
During the year two additional historical cases for the use of lodges in filing their histories, pictures, programs and the like, were purchased and added to those already in the Grand Lodge Library. HISTORY OF LODGES.
The work of gathering data and compihng a history of lodges in this jurisdiction has progressed most satisfactorily during the year, and many of our lodges have taken advantage of the suggestion made by your Grand Secretary from year to year and have placed on file
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
81
brief histories of their lodges, as well as pictures, both interior and exterior, of the.building in which their lodge is now located and in some instances structures formerly occupied by them. As a matter of information the brethren are again informed that the Grand Lodge has provided special historical cases for all lodges, and each brother, on visiting the Grand Lodge Building, can ascertain for himself by referring to the particular drawer corresponding in number to that of his lodge, what has been done along the line of "filing information which will form a basis for the preparation of a history of the Fraternity in this jurisdiction. Special credit is due Brother D B W I T T T . WRIGHT for a splendid and complete history of King Solomon Lodge No. 10 of Leavenworth. I t required about two years of Brother WEIGHT'S spare time to prepare this record. It is very artistic, is enclosed in permanent document file shape and is easy of access and well preserved for future use. We have no doubt King Solomon Lodge is proud of this splendid work, which will enhance in value with the years to come. W.-. Brother FRANK P. STRICKLAND, J R . , prepared a history of Kaw Lodge No. 272 of Kansas City, which is one of the most complete that has ever come under the observation of your Grand Secretary. This history is printed in book form and contains 270 pages. It is beautifully.bound in blue cloth with the name, number, and distinguishing emblem of the Craft on the front cover. This book, which represents many months of hard work and research by Brother STRICKLAND, has been dedicated to your Grand Secretary, and his likeness is made the frontispiece. The writer therefore takes this opportunity of expressing his profound gratitude for this high honor. Knowing the Grand Secretary's aversion to the use of his picture for any purpose whatever Brother STRICKLAND resorted to some strategy, and entered into a conspiracy with the Assistant to the Grand Secretary, and secured from him a likeness from which the halftone was made; however, the work done by this brother was so handsomely wrought that it modified the aversion of your Grand Secretary and he cannot help but feel he has been the recipient of a distinguished honor. As the shadows of life lengthen one appreciates more keenly these expressions of brotherly love. The'book is embellished with pictures and sketches of the brethren who have served in the East, as well as some of the other officers of Kaw Lodge. It is arranged in splendid chronological order so that one can take up the record from the very beginning of conditions which brought about the establishment of Kaw Lodge. This book will be found in the Grand Lodge Library and all the brethren who can do so are urged to call at the Grand Lodge Building and see it. Several other histories were also filed, but space will not permit of listing and commenting on each; however, these brethren are also deserving of special credit.
82
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
It was the purpose of your Grand Secretary, as shown in this portion of his report one year ago, to classify all material and submit a complete detailed report at this time, but conditions were such that it made it impossible. A special effort was put forth by the M/.W.'. Grand Master in connection with the duties of his office, to secure much of the material desired for historical purposes as indicated one year ago, but the material sent in was not received in time to be arranged and listed in proper form for this year's report. It is hoped, however, that this important work will be carried on during the present year as the history of the individual lodges is indispensible in preparing a history of the Grand Lodge and the whole Craft in this state. TRANSCRIPTS OP TRIALS.
During the year the following transcripts of trials have been received and transmitted to the Chairman of the Committee on Jurisprudence where an appeal was taken from the decision of the Commissioners of Trials: Orient Lodge No. 51, Topeka, against CARL R . WHITE: appeal by defendant. Golden Rule Lodge No. 90, North Topeka, against CHARLES S. KISTLER: appeal by lodge. Marysville Lodge No. 91 against GEORGE T. MOHRBACHER: appeal by lodge. Marysville Lodge No! 91 against GEORGE T . MOHRBACHER: appeal by defendant. CONFERRING DEGREES IN LESS THAN THE LAWFUL TIME.
In posting up the records it was found that the following lodges conferred the degrees in less than the lawful time and the matter was referred to the M.\ W.'. Grand Master for consideration: Active Lodge No. 158, Atchison. Prairie Queen Lodge No. 176, Clyde. REDUCED RAILROAD FARE.
As a matter of record only your Grand Secretary announces that the railroads have granted us a rate of one and one-half fare for this Annual Communication. LIST OF REGULAR LODGES.
It is customary to furnish our lodges with a copy of the List of Regular Lodges throughout the world every two years, and as the last issued was in 1926 a sufficient appropriation should be made at this time to cover the cost of these books. REPORT OF ILLEGAL SUSPENSIONS.
In posting up the historical registry covering the 1926 reports it was found that a number of lodges reported the suspension of members for non-payment of dues on dates which raised the question of the
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
83
legality of the suspension; in other words, the date of suspension of these brethren was at a date subsequent to the first Stated Communication after the expiration of ninety days from the Annual Communi- , cation. The question was therefore submitted to the M.'. W.". GrandMaster for consideration and he ruled as follows: " Within sixty days after the Annual Communication lawful notice must be given each brother who is two years or more in arrears for dues. This Notice (Form " N " ) must be served in person or mailed by registered letter to the last known post office address of such brother. Such Notice must specifically state the date on which action will be taken by the Lodge, which date shall be the first Stated Communication after the expiration of the thirty days from the date ,of mailing or serving such lawful notice. Suspension for non-payment of dues at any other time is illegal and members so suspended shall be restored to the roll of members." In accordance therewith the following lodges were instructed to restore all such members to the rolls and in submitting their 1927 annual report to include back dues on them for the year 1926: Wyandotte Lodge No. 3 Kansas City. Washington Lodge No. 5 Atchison. Emporia Lodge No. 12 Emporia. Nemaha Lodge No. 13 Corning. Lafayette Lodge No. 16 Manhattan. Olathe Lodge No. 19 Olathe. Eldora Lodge No. 28 Mapleton. Pacific Lodge No. 29 Humboldt. , McKinley Lodge No. 41 Pomona. Troy Lodge No. 55 Troy. Burlington Lodge No. 66 Burlington. Frankfort Lodge No. 67 Frankfort. Hiram Lodge No. 68 Leavenworth. Sunflower Lodge No. 86 Wichita. Girard Lodge No. 93 Girard. Harmony Lodge No. 94 Neodesha. Winfield Lodge No. 110 Winfield. St. John's Lodge No. 113 Concordia. Clifton Lodge No. 122 Clifton. Carson Lodge No. 132 .Elk City. Mt. Vernon Lodge No. 145 Beloit. Blue Rapids Lodge No. 169 Blue Rapids. Sterling Lodge No. 171 Sterling. Bennington Lodge No. 180 Bennington. Lenora Lodge No. 181 Lenora. Pittsburg Lodge No. 187 Pittsburg. Mulvane Lodge No. 201 Mulvane. Twin Grove Lodge No. 213 Severy. Ellinwood Lodge No. 217 Ellinwood. Ninnescah Lodge No. 230 Kingman. Clinton Lodge No. 233 Burden. Tyrian Lodge No. 246 Garden City. Ionic Lodge No. 254 St. John. Bourbon Lodge No. 268 Bronson. Ashland Lodge No. 277 Ashland.
84
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
Preston Lodge No. 283 Argonia Lodge No. 285 Glen Elder Lodge No. 294 Albert Pike Lodge No. 303 Naphtali Lodge No. 310 Hancock Lodge No. 311 Virginia Lodge No. 315 Rosedale Lodge No. 333 Oak Hill Lodge No. 334 Boling Lodge No. 365 Delavan Lodge No. 375 Grand View Lodge No. 376 Natoma Lodge No. 390 Lindsborg Lodge No. 397 Mullinville Lodge No. 399 Wilmore Lodge No. 412 Ensign Lodge No. 413 Perry Lodge No. 415
February,
.Cimarron. Argonia. Glen Elder. Wichita. Almena. Fort Leavenworth. Savonburg. Kansas City. Oak Hill. BoHng. Delavan. Bucklin. Natoma. Lindsborg. MuUinville. Wilmore. Ensign. Perry.
COPIES OF CHARTERS OF LAWRENCE LODGE NO. 6, AND ACACIA LODGE NO. 9 OF LAWRENCE.
In accordance with the action of the Grand Lodge one year ago correct certified copies of the original charters of Lawrence Lodge No. 6 and Acacia Lodge No. 9 were issued and to each was attached the necessary historical certificate. BONDING OP LODGE TREASURERS AND SECRETARIES.
Under the action of the Grand Lodge one year ago this subje_ct was left in the hands of the Council of Administration who in due time affected a blanket bond, and it has been placed on file in the archives of the Grand Lodge. SUBJECTS OVERLOOKED BY THE PROPER COMMITTEE AT THE LAST ANNUAL COMMUNICATION.
In some manner several important subjects presented through the. address of the Grand Master one year ago were overlooked by the Committee on Jurisprudence. On page 605, Proceedings 1927, he recommended an amendment to By-Law 34 (a) making provision for the presentation and proper disposition of a report of the proceedings of the Commissioners of Trials. On page 609, same Proceedings, the Grand Master recommended that a fee of $5.00 be charged for each admission, the same to be placed in the Endowment Fund of the Kansas Masonic Home. MAP OF DISTRICTS.
As a matter of information when desired by any of our brethren the Grand Secretary includes with this report a picture of the state as it is divided into the seventy-six districts.
1927-28.
GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS.
85
GRAND SECRETARY'S CERTIFICATES.
During the year the following Grand Secretary's certificates were issued: No. No. No. No.
823. WILLIAM H . BARKER, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. 824. HERMAN F . BRUHN, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. 825. CECIL E . CASBURN, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. 826. RAYMOND G . CREMER, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 827. JOHN H . CHEW, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 828. JOSEPH C . CORFMAN, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 829. SIDNEY C . CHANEY, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 830. ROY P. CORFMAN, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 831. OTIS A. COLVIN, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 832. CLBO M . CURRY, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 833. EDMUND D . DAVIS, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 834. EDMUND DAVIS, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 835. LEWIS S . FOSTER, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 836. ALBERT L . POSTER, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 837. CLARENCE FOY, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 838. JOHN O . GREEN, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 839. ROBERT HUGUBNIN, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 840. JAMES B . HAZLETT, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 841. ERNEST L . HANSTINE, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 842. HOBART R . HIGDON, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 843. HENRY N . JESSEN, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 844. LEWIS H . JESSEN, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 845. CLEVB JONES, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 846. DONALD B . JOSEPH, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 847. MERTON E . KING, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 848. PAUL R . KING, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 849. JAMES O . KEMPER, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 850. DAVID E . LAMBERT, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 851. WILLIAM H . LAMBERT, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 852. E. FRANK LOUTHER, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 853. JOSEPH MEAD, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 854. HARRY E . MEAD, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 855. CARL W . MORGAN, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 856. Ross C. MERTZ, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 857. HARRY MELLOR, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 858. VANCE R . NEAL, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 859. GEORGE D . NEIMAN, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 860. HARLEY M . NOLDER, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. NO. 861. WADE H . P O E , Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. No. 862. JAMES C . PARKS, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water.
86
PROCEEDINGS
No. No. No. No. No. No.
863. 864. 865. 866. 867. 868.
No. No. No. No. No. No.
869. 870. 871. 872. 873. 874.
No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No.
875. 876. 877. 878. 879. 880. 881. 882. 883. 884.
No. 885. No. 886. No. No. No. No. No.
887. 888. 889. 890. 891.
OF THE
February,
DAVID P. POLAND, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. JOHN E . PANCAKE, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. RALPH B . RYAN, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. PAUL ROSS, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. HARVE S. REYNOLDS, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. CHARLES W . STEIGER, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. JACOB W . STEIGER, Brained Lodge No. 280, White Water. RAY A. SCRIVNER, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. IRVING B . SMITH, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. OSCAR F . SCILLIAN, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. LOYD E . STUTSMAN, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. DANIEL C . THOMPSON, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. EARLE C . WITT, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. LEVI E . ZIMMERMAN, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. MORTON M . BISHOP, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. GEORGE L . BILES, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. FRANK O . BARKER, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. J O B MEAD, J R . , Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. GEORGE O. NEAL, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. FRED NELLANS, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. RALPH WILSON, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. CLARENCE A. GIBBONS, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. GEORGE A. BURT, Perfect Square Lodge No. 220, Scranton. ALBERT G . LAUGHLIN, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. EDWIN W . HAGLUND, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. CLYDE J. KENNEDY, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. ALPHA GATES, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water W;ALTER R . PACE, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. JAMES A. THOMPSON, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water. OFFICIAL CIRCULARS.
During the year the following communications have been issued: No. 317. Memorial for HUGH P. FARRELLY, Past Grand Master: No. 318. Official Circular, Annual Communication, Grand Lodge, 1927. No. 319. Identification certificate and instructions to tickets agents in connection with application for reduced rates. • No. 320. Circular relative to disregarding all appeals for financial assistance unless approved by the Grand Master. No. 321.
Memorial for HENRY FREEMAN MASON, Past Grand Master.
No. 322. Communication regarding complete set of amendments to laws.
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
87
No. 323.
Concerning Volume XX, being the Proceedings of 1925, 1926, 1927. No. 324. Advice concerning the sending of Forms L and N—first and second notices for non-payment of dues. No. 325. Advising lodges regarding bonding of Treasurers and Secretaries. No. 326. Communication in regard to preparing annual report. No. 327. Memorial for CHARLES J WEBB, Past Grand Master. AMERICUS LODGE NO. 1 0 9 .
The history of Masonry in Americus, Lyon County, dates from 1867, when Letters of Dispensation were issued for the establishment of a lodge at that place, and at the Annual Communication that year the Grand Lodge granted a charter under the name of Americus Lodge No. 62. Discord crept into this lodge and the Grand Master arrested the charter in 1869 and at the Annual Communication the same year the charter was revoked. It was not forwarded to the Grand Secretary, however, until in 1871. In this same year (1871) Letters of Dispensation were issued for the establishment of a new lodge in Americus, and at the Annual Communication that year a charter was granted under the name and number of Obedience Lodge No. 109. In 1874 a petition was presented to the Grand Lodge asking that the name be changed from Obedience Lodge No. 109 to Americus Lodge No. 109. This request was given due consideration and in 1875 the name was changed to Americus Lodge No. 109, and the Grand Lodge directed that a new charter be issued as of the date of October 21, 1875. The charter was accordingly engrossed containing the names of the three principal officers of the lodge for the year 1875. and the names of the Grand Officers for the same year were signed to this Warrant. The original charter of Obedience Lodge No. 109 was placed on file in the archives of the Grand Lodge. The Grand Lodge without doubt exceeded its authority in granting a second charter to a lodge which was already in possession of the original Warrant and this is the only instance in the annals of our Grand Lodge where such action was ever taken. A condition in Americus could very consistently have arisen under this action whereby they could have had two lodges, as the first charter was neither arrested, revoked or surrendered, and both were issued under authority of the Grand Lodge. In justice to the Grand Officers and officers of this lodge when it was first constituted your Grand Secretary would recommend that he be authorized to add to the original charter the necessary certificate concerning the change of the name from Obedience Lodge No. 109 to Americus Lodge No. 109 as of date of October 21, 1875, and that a certified photographic copy of the same be sent Americus Lodge.
88
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
NEOSHO LODGE NO. 2 7 , LB ROY.
Letters of Dispensation were issued for the -establishment of a lodge at LeRoy, Kansas, on June 18, 1859, to be known as LeRoy Lodge. On October 18, 1859, a charter was granted under the name of Neosho Lodge No. 27, at LeRoy, Kansas. The Grand Master's address in 1865 shows that he issued a special dispensation to Neosho Lodge, authorizing them to continue their work on account of their charter having been destroyed by fire. There is no record of the date when the charter was burned and so far as the records of the Grand Lodge are'concerned there is nothing to show other than the above, that the original charter was ever destroyed, and there is no mention in the permanent records that the Grand Secretary was ever authorized to issue a copy. On February 10, 1928, the Secretary of Neosho Lodge forwarded their charter to the Grand Secretary to be filed in the archives of the Grand Lodge and a photographic copy sent the lodge. On receipt of the charter it was discovered that it was not a copy of the original charter, but was issued under date of October 18, 1865, and contained the names of the Grand Officers and the names of the three principal officers of the lodge serving for the year 1865 instead of those of 1859. In the lower right hand corner of the charter is a notation of recent years reading "A. K. WILSON, Grand Secretary, claims charter dated October 18, 1859." This was noted by the Secretary upon advice from the Grand Secretary under date of January 1, 1921. Of course the Grand Secretary had no knowledge at that time that their charter was not an exact copy of the original issued on October 18, 1859. In view of the foregoing it is recommended that your Grand Secretary be authorized to issue to this lodge a certified copy of the original charter and that a photographic certified copy of the same be sent the lodge. , ANNUAL REPORTS.
Manner of Paying out Lodge Funds. Notwithstanding the repeated warnings of your Grand Secretary and the law of the Grand Lodge, no attention whatever has been paid by a large number of our lodges to the matter of using the proper form of Order on Treasurer in paying out the funds of the lodge. This statement is based on the forms of remittances received from lodges covering the Grand Lodge per capita tax and fees for the year 1927. Conditions in the matter of using the proper form of remittances are much worse than one year ago. There seems to be a total disregard on the part of most lodges to use the prescribed form authorized by the laws of the Grand Lodge. Conditions in this respect have become acute as evidenced by the numerous forms of remittances used in the payment of Grand Lodge dues, and the subject is again presented to Grand Lodge with a recommendation that some definite action be
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
89
taken to compel lodges to conform to the regulations of this Grand Lodge. This subject was referred to the Committee on Jurisprudence one year ago but received no attention at their hands and as our lodges are almost totally ignoring this provision of our Grand Lodge laws it is highly important that the subject receive attention at the hands of the Grand Lodge. Check for Payment of Grand Lodge Dues Protested, and Notice of Bank Failure. Your Grand Secretary was obliged to personally advance the necessary amount due from Moline Lodge No. 267 and Kiowa Lodge No. 293 of Greensburg, as- these two lodges had been given credit on the records, the business of the year had been closed and the copy was in the hands of the printer. In the case of Moline Lodge No. 267 the Secretary absconded and the check in payment for their Grand Lodge dues was protested, while the bank in which the funds of Kiowa Lodge No. 293 of Greensburg, as shown by their check, were kept, was closed. It is evident that Moline Lodge No. 267 paid no attention whatever to either the Ritual or law in the matter of the Secretary promptly turning over to the Treasurer all moneys received by him. Had this been done and the lodge was using only the standard form of Order on Treasurer, this unfortunate condition would not have occurred. Illegal Elections. In checking the annual reports for 1927 it was found that the following lodges held their election on a date other than the one authorized by Section 6 of Article V of the Constitution of the Grand Lodge: Election held. December December December December
Euclid No. 101, Lyndon Burr Oak No. 178, Burr Oak Dirigo No. 226, Haddam Scottsville No. 249, Scottsville Westmoreland No. 257, Westmoreland December Logan No. 264, Logan December Hugoton No. 406, Hugoton ..December Pretty Prairie No. 428, Pretty Prairie December
7 27 27 27
Should have been held. December 15 December 13 December 13 December 13
12 27 27
December 26 December 13 December 13
27...
December 13
90
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
No Date of Election Given. The following lodges failed to report the date when their annual election was held: Eldora No. 28, Mapleton. ' Holyrood No. 343, Holyrood. Blue Valley No. 112, Irving. Narka No. 349, Narka. Halcyon No. 120, Peabody. Summerfield No. 354, SummerHiattville No. 216, Hiattville. field. Dirigo No. 226, Haddam. White City No. 380, White City. Linwood No. 241, Linwood. Haviland No. 409, Haviland. Mulberry No. 261, Mulberry. Clafiin No. 424, Claflin. Minneola No. 431, Minneola. No Date for'Holding Stated Communications. Reports from the following lodges are minus the information concerning the time for holding their Stated Communications: Nine Mile No. 49, Lansing. Kiowa No. 293, Greensburg. Blue Valley No. 112, Irving. Summerfield No. 354, SummerGreeley No. 211, Greeley. field. Hiattville No. 216, Hiattville. Spearville No.'388, Spearville. Salem No. 228, Esbon. Haviland No. 409, Haviland. Claflin No. 424, Claflin. Lodges Denied Representation. The following lodges failure to pay their Grand Nine Mile Lodge Landmark Lodge
are denied representation on account of Lodge dues and fees: No. 49, Lansing. No. 218, Mound Valley.
Landmark Lodge No. 218 reported that owing to a bank failure they were unable to pay their dues. The Grand Secretary called their attention to the security afforded them on account of the bond furnished by the Grand Lodge, and advised them that they were secured in the amount of $250.00. In view of this condition he suggested that they arrange to meet their Grand Lodge obligation but his suggestion was treated with silence and up to the closing of this report no word had been received from the lodge. The reports and remittances from the following lodges were not received on or before January 10th and they are therefore denied representation: Coyville Lodge No. 57, Coyville. Hiattville Lodge No. 216, Hiattville. Parker Lodge No. 341, Parker. Summerfield Lodge No. 354, Summerfield. Fostoria Lodge No. 392, Fostoria. Hiattville Lodge No. 216 of Hiattville was asleep at their post and the report was transmitted only after appeals were made by the
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
91
Grand Secretary and the District Deputy Grand Master. This lodge should, through proper channels, be made to understand that the laws of the Grand Lodge of Kansas must be obeyed. Summerfield Lodge No. 354 of Summerfield submitted their report only after they had been reminded by the District Deputy Grand Master that the time was past due when their annual return should be made to the Grand Lodge. Fostoria Lodge No. 392 of Fostoria occupies the unique position of being a law unto themselves in the matter of submitting their annual report. On January l l t h the District Deputy Grand Master, upon request of the Grand Secretary, entered into communication by telephone with the Secretary of Fostoria Lodge, calling his attention to his failure to transmit the annual report within the time provided by law. After repeated requests the District Deputy was informed by the Secretary that the report would not be prepared until the evening of January 14th. Both the Grand Secretary and District Deputy were helpless and had to submit to. the dictates of the Secretary of this lodge, who made his word good and the report was therefore not received until January 16th. The advisability of continuing a lodge at this place, is a question which should be given consideration at the hands of the proper committee of this Grand Lodge. The report and remittance from Maple City Lodge No. 342 of Maple City were received within the lawful time but returned for correction on January 13th and the Secretary was urged to make necessary correction and return his report immediately. No attention was paid to this request and on January 17th your Grand Secretary, after a number of attempts, succeeded in reaching the Secretary of this lodge by phone and requested him to make the necessary corrections and return the report at once. The Grand Secretary was advised that the matter would be attended to promptly but the post mark on the envelope indicates that the Secretary failed to keep his promise and the report did not reach the Grand Secretary until the evening of January 19th, and when finally received the remittance was in such shape that it could not be used and was therefore returned for correction, but up to the time of preparing this report it had not been received. The importance of receiving the annual reports from the lodges is of too much consequence to be left in the hands of careless and indifferent brethren and in this instance your Grand Secretary believes that the advisability of continuing this lodge should be referred to the Committee on Chartered Lodges. Concerning our Membership. The summary following shows the smallest net gain during the past sixteen years. Of course there must be taken into consideration the unusually large number of suspensions, there being 241 more than last year, and 65 more deaths.
92
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
SUMMARY FOR 1927.
Number members December 31, 1926
82,165
Increase. Number initiated Number passed Number raised Number admitted Number restored Number-omitted last report Number members lodge U. D Number Number Number Number Number Net Number
Decrease. dimitted died suspended • expelled members Brainerd Lodge No. 280 gain ; members December 31, 1927
3,159 2,843 2,976 859 159 190 32=4,216 947 . 992 929 25 87=2,980 :.. 1,236 83,401
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
93
ESTIMATED REVENUE AND EXPENSES FOR THE ENSUING YEAR.
Revenue. Fifty cents per capita on 82,165 $41,082 Charter fees 20 Miscellaneous 800 Amount from Grand Chapter, Grand Council and Grand Commandery toward maintenance of building. 1,775 Expenses. Assistant to Grand Secretary $ Committee allowance (By-Law 49).. Expenses Grand Lodge Communication Expenses and per diem of Lecturer Expenses of Trial Commission Grand Master's apron Grand Master's contingent fund Grand Master's salary Grand Treasurer's bond premium Grand Secretary's bond premium Grand Treasurer's salary Grand Secretary's salary Grand Secretary's honorarium Grand Secretary's incidentals Grand Officers' portraits Historical Registry and Abstract Library, furniture, binding, etc List of Regular Lodges Lodge bond premium -. Mileage to representatives (By-Law 51) Mileage and expenses (By-Laws 49 and 50).. Minor salaries (By-Law 48) Office ahd Library Building.. Printing Annual Proceedings .-. Postage and express Private Secretary to Grand Master Salary Chairman Committee on Correspondence (ByLaw 49) Stationery and printing Stenographic and clerical help Taxes ,
50 00 00 00
3,600 150 600 1,600 1,200 61 1,500 800 87 10 100 1,800 1,200 1,200 50 600 1,000 175 1,750 3,000 1,500 150 3,000 3,500 800 600
00 00 00 00 00 50 00 00 50 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00
300 1,500 3,000 2,500
00 00 00 00
94
PROCEEDINGS
OF
SCHEDULE
THE
February,
"A."
Being the amount returned by subordinate lodges for the year ending December 31, 1927. No. •1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13..: 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35. 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 '49 50 51 52
Grand Lodge Dues and Fees. $ 138 00 420 00 ; 2,476 00 112 00 353 00 628 00 710 00 904 00 588 00 422 00 104 00 1,158 00 97 00 168 00 344 00 : 836 00 1,196 00 460 00 307 00 76 00 99 00 131 00 242 00 509 00 57 00 151 00 125 00 174 00 184 00 270 00 34 00 85 00 119 00 112 00 297 00 ; 249 00 310 00 473 00 .-. 170 00 137 00 90 00 ; 345 00 114 00 217 00 80 00 115 00 63 00 116 00 : 120 00 185 00 2,370 00 97 00
Grand Lodge Dues and Fees. $ 95 00 133 00 141 00 158 00 75 00 134 00 120 00 1,408 00 122 00 222 00 174 00 .' 149 00 135 00 196 00 164 00 338 00 75 00 137 00 306 00 73 00 ; 108 00 510 00 226 00 191 00 252 00 98 00 194 00 338 00 55 00 61 00 102 00
No. 53. 54. 55. 56., 57. 58., 59.
60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84....: 85 86 87 88
89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102
134 129 1,474 103 153
;
00 00 00 00 00
89 00 844 00 281 00 136 00 292 00 374 00 386 00 • 137 00 1,136 00 404 00 1,943 00 239 00 126 00 720 00
103...-
693 00
104
148 00
GRAND
1927-28.
No. 105 106 107 108 109... 110 111 112 113...' 114 115 116 117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124 125 126 127 128 129 130 131 132 133 134 135 136 137 138 139 140 141 142 143 144 145 146 147 148..... 149 150 151 152 153 154 155 156 157 158 159 160
LODGE
Grand Lodge Dues and Fees. $ 139 00 352 00 877 00 92 00 129 00 672 00 188 00 108 00 353 00 223 00 92 00 90 00 731 00 129 00 203 00 287 00 157 00 117 00 88 00 33 00 106 00 44 00 92 00 76 00 266 00 95 00 88 00 133 00 1,049 00 295 00 116 00 284 00 268 00 98 00 120 00 1,039 00 204 00 703 00 176 00 234 00 306 00 266 00 299 00
;
:
219 109 600 293 147 98 231 144 173 110 568 161 218
00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00
OF
95
KANSAS.
Grand Lodge Dues and Fees.
No. 161 162 163 164 165 166 167 168 169 170 171 172 173 174 175 176 177 178 179 180 181 182 183 184 185 186 187 188 189 190 191...192 193 194 195 196 197 198 199.. 200 201 202 203 . 204 205 206: 207 208 209 210 211 212 213 214 215 216
;.$
;
;
127 249 58 245 186 105 332 68 203 57 331 297 164 264 160 153 204 92 213 112 109 131 115 199 134 173 1,560 173 155 123 220 266 160 185 290 223 183 134 294 219 206 72 215 189 158 258 117 95 106 133 58 186 137 82 75 107
00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00
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98
PROCEEDINGS
OF
THE
February,
Grand Lodge Grand Lodge Dues and Fees. • No. Dues and Fees. $ 157 00 444 ....$ 74 00 107 00 445 :.... 309 00 163 00 446 42 00 57 00 51 00 447 52 00 448 25 00 18 00 u.D. White Water 5 00 52 00 22 00 $98,105 00
No. 436 437 438 439 440 441 442 443
SCHEDULE " B . "
Being amount returned by subordinate lodges for year ending December 31, 1926: Grand Lodge No. Name. Dues and Fees. 56 Spring Hill $152 00 118 Altoona 149 00 Total
$301 00 SCHEDULE " C . "
Being amount dispensation fees received from the following lodge: U. D. Name. Location. Amount. U. D. White Water White Water $20 00 SCHEDULE " D . "
Being amount received account of charter ending December 31, 1927: No. Name. 280 Antiquity 448 Grinnell Total
fees for the year Amount. $20 00 20 00 $40 00
SCHEDULE " E . "
Being amount received account of contributions to the Endowment Fund of the Kansas Masonic Home: Marcus W. Frazier, member Wyandotte Lodge No. 3 $ 5 00 Family of T. D. Achor, late member of Western Star Lodge No. 138, Oklahoma 25 00 Total
$30 00
1927-2S.
GRAND
LODGE SCHEDULE
OF KANSAS.
99
"F."
Being amount received account bond investment for the year ending December 31, 1927: Interest, Fourth Liberty Loan Bonds $1,104 97 Interest, Bond No. 15, School District No. 79, Greenwood County 12 50 Interest, Bonds 33 to 36, Board of Education, City of Larned 100 00 Interest, Bonds 1 to 7, School District No. 50, Brown County '.. 105 00 Interest, Fourth Liberty Loan Bonds 106 25 Interest, Bonds 33 to 36, Board of Education, City of Larned 100 00 Interest, Bonds 1 to 7, School District No. 50, Brown County 105 00 Bond No. 15, School District No. 79, Greenwood County 500 00 United States Savings Certificates 1,200 00 Total
:
$3,333 72
100
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
ToPEKA, KANSAS, January 19, 1928. ALBERT K . WILSON, Grand Secretary, In account with T H E M / . W / . GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS.
2j
CASH ACCOUNT.
Received from lodges as per Schedule " A " $ 98,105 00 Received as per Schedule " B " 301 00 Received as per Schedule " C " 20 00 Received as per Schedule " D " 40 00 Received as per Schedule " E " 30 00 Received as per Schedule " F " 3,333 72 Received account Sample Standard Blanks: Lodges Nos. 73, 75, 77,112,119,120, 122, 157,158, 159, 196,198, 235, 249, 282,318, 320, 366, 404, 408, 428. 442 23 00 Received account certification to Life Membership Certificates 17 00 Received account fees and dues from members of defunct lodges 154 50 Received account special dispensation fees (Neilson, 1926) 20 00 Received account special dispensation fees (Fowler, 1927) 225 00 Received account unexpended portion money advanced Chairman of Commissioners of Trials (1926) 151 05 , Received account unexpended portion money advanced Chairman of Commissioners of Trials (1927) 74 86 Received account unexpended portion Grand Master's Contingent Fund (Neilson, 1926) 11 65 Received account sale waste paper 5 15 Received account engrossing charter Meriden Lodge No. 236 3 00 Received account sale Books of Annual Returns 9 00 Received account work on Books of Annual Returns: Halcyon Lodge No. 120, $4.00; Melody Lodge No. 400, $3.00 7 00 Received account payment for lost Ciphers: Lodges Nos. 57, 118, 261, 310, 337 .' 100 00 Received account balance of fees Edwin W. Haglund, an Entered Apprentice of late Brainerd Lodge No. 280.. 25 00 Received account Raising Fee, Edwin W. Haglund 5 00 Received account late Brainerd Lodge No. 280: cash on hand, $75.10; paid on indebtedness, $303.55 378 65 Received account sale of List of Regular Lodges 1 00 Received account damage to fence (from insurance company) • 49 00
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
101
Received account typewriter (from Grand Council) $ Received account overpayment framing charters..... Received account refund from city of Topeka (fixing sewer) Received account overpayment of mileage: • Adams Lodge No. 63, $3.94; Philip Eugene Stotler, $3.75; Grand Chapter, $8.29 Received account daily balance interest Received from Grand Chapter, R. A. M., account maintenance Office and Library Building Received from Grand Council, R. & S. M., account maintenance Office and Library Building.'. Received from Grand Commandery, K. T., account maintenance Office and Library Building Total
-.
15 00 7 00 .48 83 15 98 480 50 850 00 350 00 575 00
$105,481 89
TOPEKA, KANSAS, January 20, 1928. T H E M.-. W.-. GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS,
In account with ALBERT K . WILSON, Grand Secretary. 1928. Jan. 20.—Paid W. F . March, Grand Treasurer, since last report $105,431 89 Fraternally submitted, ALBERT K . WILSON,
Grand Secretary.
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Totals
1919.. 1920.. 1921.. 1922.. 1923.. 1924.. 1925.. 1926.. 1927.. •
31,312 43 26,240 26 12,861 16 13,499 76 23,211 72 18,956 64 15,810 93 24.514 29 30,371 64 •
50 39 53 47 71 87 54 00 89
2,214,633 44
70,110 78,929 111,098 98,340 249,925 103;745 118,376 105,784 105,431
67 68 98 38 95 90 95 96 39
00,947 75,470 107,419 94,490 245,895 99,002 113,909 101,354 101,006
83 71 55 09 70 91 59 10 50 688,238 81
. 27,902 00 31,460 50 34,291 50 30,137 25 37,072 50 39,020 50 40,087 00 41,082 50 41,700 50
Total
;
Total net income in General Fund Total expenditure.1 Total unexpended portion of net income
81,030 38 2,133,003 00
3,168 3,452 3,678 3,850 4,029 4,142 4,400 4,429 4,425 680,809 10
23,311 85 37,354 91 01,933.30 40,720 71 47,712 29 44,975 83 34,843 37 48,195 13 48,021 11 00 53 16 00 50 60 52 00 50
55 87 99 17 65 59 34 12 09
72,014 88,861 106,780 84,778 250,150 102,748 105,266 95,496 99,733
00 81 95 13 94 52 23 76 20
52,133,603.06 $2,133,003.00
$2,129,025.46 3,977.61
230,940 18 2,129,025 45
13,662 8,786 10,301 1,825 17,020 18,224 20,115 4,219 9,224
52,133,603.00
529,637 30
7,137 11,259 254 95 147,145 527 10,220 2,000 187 136,503 82
4,266 18 3,145 61
5,000 17 1,1,385 10
140,481 43
8,703 30 5,857 35 1,273 30
638 60 9,711 96
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Feb. Feb. Fob. Feb. Feb. Feb. Fob. Feb. Feb. Feb. Feb. Fob.
31 32 33 34 35 3ti 37 38 30 40 41 42
27 28 2H 30
1 1 2 2 2 7
Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar Mar
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2 2 2 2
Feb. Feb. Feb. Feb.
T o p e k a Ice C o m p a n y T o p e k a Edison C o m p a n y . .Jordan Electric C o m p a n y United States IDaily, L i b r a r y Furniture, Binding, e t c Zerclier Book & Sta. Co A. K. Wilson ,Iohn F. S t r i c k r o t t Western Union Tel. C o , B u r r o u g h s Adding M a c h i n e Co..., A. K. Wilson T o p e k a Edison C o m p a n y F . H. Wilson A. B . B u r g e R. O. Burgc Groen Scales Joseph L. Kirk, S e c y , E x p . G r a n d Jjodge Communication Charles N . Fowler Tlie Lilley C o m p a n y , Gr. M a s t e r ' s Apron Charles N . Fowler, P r i v a t e Sec'y... M r s . A n n a M . Applegate, Spl. Appr. Co. of Administration... R o b e r t P . McCoUoch, Spl. Appr. Co. of Administration Ralph F . Moore, L i b r a r y Furnit u r e , Binding, etc T o p e k a P u r e W a t e r Co •lohnson Service C o Crosby Brothers Co J o r d a n Electric Co American Railway E x p . Co Sullivan Art Store Southwestern Bell Tel. Co Ketcheson Printing Co., Printing A n n u a l Proceedings Ketclieson Printing Co Crane & Company T o p e k a Edison C o m p a n y B r a y ' s C a s h Wall P a p e r .lordan Electric C o m p a n y W. F . M a r c h , Gr. T r e a s . , Mileage t o Representatives A. K. Wilson, Gr. Secy., Mileage t o Representatives 16 72
3,256 96
235 84
4 0 00
150 00
85 00
61.50
000 00
15 00
600 00
300 00 150 00 100 00
$ l.-'jOO 00
4 50
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Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar. Mar. Apr. A pr. Apr. Apr.
70 77 78 79 SO 81 82 83 84 85 80 87 88 Si) UO 91 92 03
05 00 07 08 00 70 71 72 73 74 75
1927. M ar. 7 (14
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•d
A. K. Wilson C i t y W a t e r Works J o l m P. S t r i c k r o t t Sullivan A r t Store Zercher Book & S t a . Co T h e liilley C o m p a n y Sullivan A r t Store Cla.son M a p C o m p a n y .John F . S t r i c k r o t t A. K. Wilson Southwestern Bell Tel. Co *.
T o p e k a P u r e W a t e r Co Gem Grocery & M e a t M a r k e t
C a p i t a l Iron W o r k s Co .\. K. Wilson Otis E l e v a t o r C o m p a n y T o p e k a ISdison C o m p a n y .lolin F . .Strickrott •. A. K. Wilson F . D . Sperry K a n s a s i i a n k e r s Surety Co.. Gr. T r e a s u r e r ' s J3ond P r e m i u m F . H . Wilson A. B . Burge R. C. Burge
W . F . M a r c h , Gv. 'I'roas., ISIileagc and expenses $ T o p o k a Transfer & Storage Co
In Favor of
87 50
1,.577 19
o C
S
In
$
300 00 150 00 100 00
"3
'3
to
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$
WARRANT ACCOUNT—Continued.
c
3 00
2 50 5 00 45 12 00 3 50 12 02 12 50 2 25 • 4 10
2 50 5 59 9 45
3 si)
1^
u c
13
.gr
fe'S cc
c o .
S
1 . ( 0 00 80 1 50 2 40 81 11 50
11 00 24 20
1 00 • 9 25 7 50
5
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o
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Cs
C3
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ft!
o o
05
103 104 105 106 107
108 109 110 111 112 113 114 115 110 117 118 119 120 121
122 123 124 125
Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr.
Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. A pr. Apr. Apr.
Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr.
May May
3 131 3 132
Apr. 28 130
Apr. 28 129
Apr. 26 126 Apr. 26 127 A p r . 28 128
Apr.
Apr.
94 95 90 97 98 99 100 101 102
Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr. Apr.
Crane & Company Crano & Company Remington T y p e w r i t e r Co Zercher Book & Sta. Co American Railway E x p . C o .lorclan Electric C o m p a n y T o p e k a Edison C o m p a n y T o p e k a Ice Company..... T o p e k a Transfer & Storage Co., Binding Proceedings General H e a t i n g Specialty Co Sullivan A r t Store A. K. Wilson D e n t o n E n g . & Const. Co A. 1\., Wilson, Library Km'niture, Binding, etc Jolm F . Strickrott Sullivan A r t Store M i m s o n Supply C o m p a n y H a r v e y O. Davis Stanford M . S m a r t .' Crane & Company T o p e k a ESdison C o m p a n y City W a t e r Works A: K. Wilson Ketcheson Printing Co H a r v e y O. I3avis National M a p Company John F. Strickrott Peoples S t a t e B a n k , Spl. Appr. Co. of Administration F. H.Wilson A. B . Burge R. C. Burge K. R. E b e y , Historical Registry & Abstract •. Green Scales T h e Capital Iron W o r k s Co E d w i n F . Gayle, G r a n d M a s t e r , C h a r i t y Fund...: W. M . Kemp, Grand Master, Charity Fund J a m e s H. J o h n s o n , G r a n d M a s t e r Charity Fund Western T y p e w r i t e r Co Crane & Company 1,000 00
500 00
1,000 00
203 05
1 00
80 00
300 00 150,00 100 00
12 (10 5 00
2 50 10 50
10 60 5 05
85 00 00 25
3 00 14 25
""4 40
12 00
7 4 33 1
20 93
0 02
100 00 38 00
29 05 7 30 2 00
"ijv'io
40 70
4 00 00 60 1 60
134 00
78 00 160 58
>^
o
o 0 o
S3
u
1
3 3 3 3 (i
142 143 144 145 146
17 17 17 17 1" 2]
152 153 154 155 156 1.07
M a y 21 158 M a y 2] 159
May May May May May May
IMay 17 149 M a y 17 150 M a y 17 151
M a y G 147 M a y 7 148
May May May May May
1927. M a y 3 133 M a y 3 134 M a y 3 135 M ay 3 130 M a y 3 137 M a y 3 138 M a y 3 130 M a y 3 140 M a y 3 141
•2 3
3
•o
D. H . Forbes Bichard E. Bird, Commissioners of Trials
.1. D . .Joseph, Executor & T r u s t e e , Spl. Appr. Co. of Administration C. A. Alien J a m e s A. Cassler, Commissioners of Trials Crane & Company A. Iv. Wilson T h e Ijilloy C o m p a n y , Spl. Appr.
Western Union Tel. Co
American E a i l w a y E x p . C o Kotcheson P r i n t i n g Co., P r i n t i n g
In Favor of
30 55
187 ,50
200 00
175 00
$ 3,803 28
u
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3 o
tn
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$
WARRANT ACCOUNT—Continued.
7 00 15 87
5 00 3 50
13 80
55 (•>5 5 52
20 75 70 2 50
c
u •a u
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$
o5
7 04
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to O
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160 101 102 103 1C4 165 100 107 108 109 170 171
Crano & C o m p a n y Lelinian H a r d w a r e & I m p . Co.. City Water Works C e n t r a l - T o p e k a P a p e r Co Ciiarles N . Fowler. W . F. M a r c h . A. K.. Wilson A. K. Wilson F . H . Wilson A. B . Burge ' R. C. Burge K. R. Eboy. Historical Registry & Abstract 172 Green Scales May 173 Southwestern Bell Tel. Co June 174 Sullivan A r t Store June 175 A. K. Wilson June 170 J o h n F . S t r i c k r o t t June 177 C r a n e & C o m p a n y Juno 178 Zercher Book & Sta. Co Juno I7i) American R a i l w a y E x p . Co Juno 180 T o p e k a P u r e W a t e r Co Juno 181 N . E . ICeller Juno 182 Johnson & Beck Juno 183 City i c e Comjiany Jinio 184 T o p e k a Edison C o m p a n y June 185 R o n i s t e d t Greenhouses Juno 180 T o p e k a Transfer & Storage Co Jiuio 187 W e s t e r n Union Tel. Co J uno 188 J a m e s A. Cassler, Commissioners June of Trials 189 Sullivan A r t Store June 190 Christ Nieinan, Spl. Appr. Co. of J uno Administration J uno 7 191 Clu'ist Nioman, Spl. A p p r . Co of Administration J u n e 7 192 Christ N l e m a n , Spl. A p p r . C o . of Administration J u n o 10 193 A. K. Wilson J u n e 10 194 A. K. Wilson J u n e 10 195 J o r d a n Electric C o m p a n y J u n e 10 196 A. K. Wilson J u n e 10 197 Crosby B r o t h e r s C o m p a n y J u n e 10 198 Sullivan A r t Store J u n e 10 199 J o h n F . Strickrott J u n e 10 200 J. C. Darling Company
May May May May May May May May May May May M ay
30 00
40 44
145 79
100 15
00 00 00 00 00 00 00
00 GO
200 25 450 300 300 150 100
15 00 81 50
7 5 0 5 2
18 40 00 00 50
3 50
10 40 1 29 8 49
10 7 3 31
2 85
54 28 20
11 6£
300 00
4 09 80 40 10 00 00
3 00 2 00
5 8 1 6
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Stationery and Printing.
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Office and Library Building.
O O
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Expenses of Lecturer. •.tJBtuqa^
Oil
3i/j: JO soNiassooHj
5 225 .1226 ^ 227 n 228 r,229 . •)230 K 231 fi232 5 233 .'i234 235 r, 5 236
William T. Bather, Printing An-
Aug. Aug, Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug.
.3254 H 255 3 256 H 257 H 258 259 a 3 260 3 261 3 262 3 263 3 264 3 265 a266
John I*. Strickrott
July l.-^237 July 15 238 Becktold Company, Printing AnJuly \F, 239 July 1.5 240 .lolm F. Strickrott July 15 241 Richard E. Bird, Commissioners July 15 242 July 15 243 July 15 244 July 15 245 July IR 246 July 2S 247 P. H. Wilson July 2S 248 July 2S 249 R. C. Burge July 23 250 July 2S 251 July 2H 252 Aug. 3 253 Citizens National Ba,nk, Spl.
July July July July July July July JiUy July July July July
5,258 73
29 84
38 15
35 00
200 25 450 300
00 00 00 00
300 00 150 00 100 00
30 8 35 2 50 7 00
5 00
3 50 2 50
75 3 50 3 00 7 85
1 25
35 $
5 31
4 81
81 60 80 00 45
80 1 60 2 00 5 00
100 00 40
1 2 49 24
1 60 1 20 80 2 20 2 85
s^ to
o
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>•
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C5
Sept. 1 287 288 Sept. 1 289 Sept. I 290 Sept. 1 291 Sept. 1 292 Sept. 1 293
Jordi^n Electric C o m p a n y
J o h n F. Strickrott
Water Department A. K. Wilson, Spl. Appr. G r a n d
P. H . Wilson R. C. Burge A. 13. B u r g e
Ferri.s M . Hill, Commissioners of
Aug. 13 274
13 27.'-> 13 270 13 277 13 278 22 279 22 280 22 281 22 282 22 283 284 Aug. 22 285 Aug. 2,5 280
.laine-'i A. Cassler, Commissioners
Aug. 13 273
Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug.
George F . Beezloy, Commissioners
Aug. 13 272
..;
H. S. Huzick, Jr., Commissioners
Ellis & M a r t i n F . H . Wilson
In Favor of
u a Q 1927. Aug. 10 207 Aug. 10 208 Aug. 10 209 Aug. 10 270 Aug. 13 271
to
V)
3
1
S
144 30
117 70
40 10
99 23
84 74
1
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$
300 00 100 00 150 00
CO
'3
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.
S
..
2 5 10 7 7
04 2 5 2
70 00 90 50 00
00 37 50 50
3 03
.
11 i
WARRANT ACCOUNT—Continued.
$
2 10 40 10
3 30 1 00
100 00 40 20 15 4 45
o
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4
o '^
Cfl
til
o
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^
..::::::::::::.;;; ?
1^ CO
:::::;::::::::::: a
•
1
7 7 7 10 16 10
A. K. Wilson
Bccktold C o m p a n y , Binding P r o -
A. K. Wilson, Chr. C o m m i t t e e on
Sept. 21 317 Sept. 22 318 Sept. 22 319
3 320
3 321 3 322 ' 3 323 3 324 3 325 A. K. Wilson 3 320 3 327 White Star L a u n d r y n 328 William T. B a t h e r , P r i n t i n g An-
Oct.
Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct.
Oct.
Willianr H , Wise & Co.. L i b r a r y
Ferris M . Hill, Commissioners of
F . H . Wilson F . H . Wilson
Sept. 21 310
308 309 310 311 312 313 314
A. R. .lackson K. C. Show Case W o r k s Co., L i b r a r y F u r n i t u r e ,
10 20 20 20 20 20 20
Richard E . Bird, Commissioners of Trials F r a n k D . Sperry, Commissioners
M r s . Lizzie Vandenberg, Spl. Appr. Co. of Administration....
Sept. 21 315
Sept. Sept. Sept. Sept. Sept. Sept. Sept.
Sept. 10 307
Sept. Sept. Sept. Sept. Sept. Sept.
299 300 301 302 303 304 30.5 Sept. 10 30C
Sept. 1 294 Sept. 1 295 Sept. 1 290 Sept. 7 297 Sept. 7 298
47 13
803 20
16 85
285 .50
35 50
14 00
54 25
104 50
300 00
300 00 150 00
5 00
1 05
2 05
3 00
2 50
5 00 14 90
$
88 42
50
50
22 00 25
$
5 65
300 00
5 87
4 25
5 25
100 00 80
1 05 21 67
1 10
9 90
$ 147 00
....
i-»
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ts
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21 347 21 348 21 349 21 350 21 351 21 352 21 353 21 354 21 355
Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct.
N o v . 3 350 N o v . H 357 N o v . 3 358
Oct Oct
Oct
Oct Oct. Oct Oct. Oct Oct Oct Oct. Oct. Oct.
11 330
11 331 332 333 11 334 11 335 330 11 337 18 338 14 339 20 340 20 341 20 342 20 343 20 344 20 345 20 34G
Oct
O Q 1927. Oct. 11 329
i
S o u t h w e s t e r n Bell Tel. Co
;
J a m e s F . Ayres, Commissioners
F. H . Wilson R. C. Burgo
A. K . AVilson
Steel F i x t u r e Mfg. Co V. L. Peacock, Apent, G r a n d Secre-
T o p e k a Transfer & Storage Co., P r i n t i n g A n n u a l Proceedings.... $
In Favor of
44 15
10 00
52 74
V)
u
CJ
3
WARRANT
S
200 25 450 300 300 100 150
'3
CO
00 00 00 00 00 00 00
$
ACCOUNT —Continued.
00 50 50 25 25 50
3 41 7 SO 9 55
3 50 1 25
20 00
5 10 2 •1 2 2
u C
"3 c CC
•a c a .
a,
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SO 23 30 3 25
3 30
1 60
100 00
o
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$
157 00
109 00
P
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8
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•13
Kklelity & Deposit Co. of M d . , Spl.
Ellis & M a r t i n , L i b r a r y Furnitiu'e,
362 363 364 36,5 366
3 3 3 3 3
3 367 3 368
Nov. Nov.
3 3.50
N o v . 26 395 N o v . 26 396 N o v . 26 397
N o v . 26 394
N o v . 23 392 N o v . 26 393
l."> 377 1,5 378 1.5 379 1,5 380 1,5 381 1,5 382 17 383 17 384 23 385 23 386 23 387 23 388 23 389 23 390 23 391
F . H . Wilson
F . H . Wiisou County Treas., Johnson County, Spl. A p p r . C o . of A d m i n i s t r a t i o n C. N i e m a n , Spl. Appr. Co. of Ad-
N a t ' l Geograpliic Society, L i b r a r y
F . H . Wilson B . C. B u r g e
"Water D e p t . City of Topelta
C o i m t y T r e a s . . Sha^vnee C o u n t y ,
N o v . 11 376
Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov.
A. K. Wiisou R. H . Fairciiilti Steel I^ixture Mfg. Co C o u n t y Treas., Shawnee C o u n t y ,
N o v . 3 369 N o v . 7 370 N o v . 7 371 N o v . 7 372 N o v . 7 373 N o v . 11 374 N o v . 11 375
a3 360 3()1
Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov.
93 80
88 80
3 00
191 53
2,335 66
70 00
1,576 50
300 00 100 00 150 00
1 50 16 00
6 00
12 00
5 50
4 31 1 31
5 00
$
2 37 5 61
176 46
5 00 1 45 $
1 15 75 20 05 00
9 00 40
ioij 00
26 46 16 87
5 20
23 75
1 60
1 22 4 1
114 93
166 95 172 80
^
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CO
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13 407 13 408 13 409 13 410 14 411 17 412 17 413 17 414 21 41,5 21 410 22 417 22 418 22 419 22 420 22 421 22 422 30 423
Dec. 30 426
Dec. 30 424 Dec. -30 42,5
Dec. Dec. Doc. Doc. Dec. Dec. Doc. Doc. Doc. Dec. Doc. Doc. Doc. Dec. Doc. Dec. Doc.
1927. N o v . 20 398 39!) Dec. 1 400 Doc ] 401 Doc. 1 402 I3ec. a 403 Dec. a 404 Dec. H 405 Doc. :i 400
o
V)
C a p p e r ISngraving Co., Olllcors' I'ortraits
Grand
G e m Grocery & M o a t M a r k e t
A. K, Wilson
F . H . Wilson A. B. Hin-ge R. C. llnrKo
Tliomas G. F i t c h , C h a r i t y Fuiul....
Owen D . L e t t , Mastoi', Oliarity
Ricliai'd E. Bird, Conimissioneis of Ti-ials S
A. K. Wilson
In Favor of
29 00
4,657 50
50 00
27 91
CO
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S
300 00 150 00 100 00
05
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to
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WARRANT ACCOUNT—Continued.
10 85
2 25 9 40 1 25
3 80
•i
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B3
$
45 4 17
3 34
10 31
•a c o .
$
0,
3 79
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8 90 21 65
11 35
41 40 1 00
34 76 32 00
5 it)
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100 00
5
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P
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So o o
Jan. 20 461 Jan. 20 462
Dec. 30 427 Dec. 30 428 Deo. 30 429 Dec. 30 430 Dec. 30 431 1028. Jan. 4 432 Jan. 4 433 Jan. 4 434 Jan. 4 435 Jan. i) 436 Jan. <)437 Jan. il 438 Jan. !) 439 Jan. !) 440 Jan !t 441 Jan. 9 442 Jan. il 443 Jan. il 444 Jan. 0 445 Jan. (1 446 Jan. 1(i 447 Jan. 16 448 Jan. Hi 449 Jan. l(i 450 Jan. l(i 451 •Ian. 1() 452 Jan. l(i 453 Jan. 1(1 454 Jan. 16 455 Jan. Ifi 456 Jan. Iti 457 Jan. 18 458 Jan. 18 459 Jan. 20 460
Stamp
&
J. Forrest Ayres, Commissioners , 34 97 of Trials Thomas G. Fitch, Masonic Home 41,700 50 Fund Thomas G. Fitch, Tax on Work, 14,880 00 Thomas G. Fitch, Tax on Work, Endowment Fund Masonic Home 5 00
A. K. Wilson
K. R. Ebey, Historical Registry &
R. C. Burge
Albert K. Wilson Albert K. Wilson F. H. Wilson
R. H. Pairchild
Partridgc-Scotford
00 00 00 00 00 80 00
69 20
200 25 450 300 300 130 100
12 00 7 00
3 90
2 50 2 35 15 21
i38 5 00 31 25 30 00
05 S 00
2 81
25 29
100 00 8 60 6 00 40
40 1 60 1 50
1 50 81 60
80
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SONiasaOOUd
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
119
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
LIBERAL, KANSAS, March 22, 1927.
The M.\ W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the Masonic Hall at Liberal, Kansas, on the 22nd day of March, A. D. 1927, A. L. 5927, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new Presbyterian Church. The several stations and places were filled by the following brethren: M.-.W.-. W.-. Bro. Bro.
CHARLES N . FOWLER WILLIAM H . FEATHER WARREN ZIMMERMAN ARTHUR J. BARRETT...
Grand Master. . as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden.
W.-. EUGENE W . DAVIS Bro. EARL L . SMITH
as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary.
Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro.
as Grand as Grand as Grand as Grand
LEONARD J. WOLTMAN RAY B . SMITH HERBERT H . HOBBLE WiLLARD G. YOUNG
W.-. HADDOCK W . LANE
Senior Junior Senior Junior
Deacon. Deacon. Steward. Steward.
as Grand Tyler.
The M.-; W.'. Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. The Grand Lodge then formed in Grand Procession and repaired to the site of the new Presbyterian Church where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity, followed by an impressive address by M .•. W.". CHARLES N. FOWLER, Grand Master. The Grand Lodge then returned to the Masonic Hall where it was closed in Ample Form. CHARLES N . FOWLER,
Attest:
Grand Master. EARL L . SMITH,
as Grand Secretary.
120
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
JETMCJRE, KANSAS, April 7,1927.
Upon request of Alpha Lodge No. 282 of Jetmore, Kansas, The M.-. W.-. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the Masonic Hall at Jetmore, Kansas, on April 7, 1927, by M.-. W.'. CHARLES N . FOWLER of Salina, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new Masonic Temple. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: M.-.W.-. CHARLES N . FOWLER R.-. W.-. CLARENCE G . NEVINS W.-. FRANK F . BAILEY W.-. HAYES FLOYD
Grand Master. as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden.
W.-. THOMAS C . WILSON Bro. WALTER E . SMITH W.-. ROBERT M . BOTTING
as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary. as Grand Chaplain!
W.'. W.-. W.-. W.-.
as Grand as Grand as Grand as Grand
ROY SOREM MAURICE A. TEED CHARLEY B . ERSKINE HARRY LEIDIGH
Bro. HARRY Y . BREESE
W.-. W.-. Bro. M.-.W.-. Bro.
JOHN IRVING HARRY GROVE W. H. HANBS ELRICK C . COLE D O N HBIDMAN
Bro. HENRY JOHNSON
Senior Junior Senior Junior
Deacon. Deacon. Steward. Steward.
as Grand Marshal.
as Bearer of Great Lights. as Bearer of Book of Constitution. as Principal Architect. as Grand Orator. as Grand Pursuivant. as Grand Tyler.
The M.-. W.-. Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. The Grand Lodge then repaired to the street and marched to the site of the new Masonic Temple, where the cornerstone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity. The Foundation Ode was sung by the Jetmore Boy's High School Glee Club. M.-. W.-. ELRICK C . COLE, of Great Bend, delivered a very interesting oration for the occasion. W.-. WALTON S. KENYON, of Jetmore, read a short history of Alpha Lodge. The Grand Lodge then returned to the Masonic Hall where M.-.W.-. CHARLES N . FOWLER, Grand Master, gave a short talk on Masonry, after which the Grand Lodge was closed in Ample Form. CHARLES N . FOWLER,
Attest:
Grand Master. WALTER E . SMITH,
as Grand Secretary.
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
121
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
ToPEKA, KANSAS, May 6,1927. A Special Communication of The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in the Masonic Hall, in the city of Topeka, on the 6th day of May, A. D. 1927, A. L. 5927, for the purpose of paying the last tribute to the memory of our beloved Past Grand Master, M.\ W.-. HENRY F . MASON. The Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the third degree of Masonry with the following officers: M.'.W.'. CHARLES N. FOWLER R.-. W.-. FERRIS M - HILL R.\ W.'. GEORGE F . BEEZLEY R.-. W.'. JAY B . KIKK
Grand Master. Deputy Grand Master. Grand Senior Warden. Grand Junior Warden.
W.'. JAMES B . DONCYSON R.'. W.-. ALBERT K . WILSON
as Grand Treasurer. Grand Secretary.
W.'. W.'. M.'.W.'. W.'. W.'. W.'.
Grand as Grand as Grand Grand as Grand as Grand
JOHN M . KINKEL EMERSON B . WELLS ELMER F . STRAIN WILLIAM E . CAIN DAVID M . HORKMANS GEORGE GETTY
W.-. WILLIAM J. BOND
Senior Deacon. Junior Deacon. Marshal. Sword Bearer. Senior Steward. Junior Steward.
as Grand Tyler.
The Grand Marshal then formed the Grand Lodge in procession, after which they repaired to the Episcopal Church where the usual services were conducted by the Dean of the Cathedral. The remains were then escorted by the Grand Lodge to Mount Hope Cemetery where the beautiful Masonic burial services were conducted by the Grand Master in the chapel of the new mausoleum just being completed, and the remains of M.-. W.". Brother HENRY F . MASON were laid to rest in one of its crypts. The Grand Lodge then returned to the Masonic Hall where it was closed in Ample Form. CHARLES N . FOWLER,
Attest:
Grand Master. ALBERT K . WILSON,
Grand Secretary.
122
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
OTTAWA, KANSAS, May 24, 1927.
Upon request of Ottawa Lodge No. 18 and Melody Lodge No. 400 of Ottawa, Kansas, The M.\ W.". Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas, was convened in Special Communication in the Masonic Hall at Ottawa, Kansas, on the 24th day of May, A. D. 1927, A. L. 5927, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new Masonic Temple. The several stations and places were filled by the following brethren: M.-.W.'. CHARLES N . FOWLER R.-. W.'. FERRIS M . HILL W.'. CLARENCE W . MOODY R.-. W.'. JAY B . KIRK
Grand Master. Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. Grand Junior Warden.
W.\ RICHARD C . MARCELL as Grand Treasurer. W.". CHARLES H . MARTIN as Grand Secretary. Bro. and Rev. JOHN WESLEY BATES Grand Chaplain.
W.'. CHARLES J. MOORE W.". FRANK N . CRAWFORD
as Grand Senior Deacon. as Grand Junior Deacon.
W.'. RALPH W . POPE
as Grand Marshal.
W.". W.". W.". W.". W.'.
Grand as Grand as Bearer as Bearer as Grand
LAUREN D . RIGG HAROLD J. LAMB DIBDRICH F . SEEVERS WILLIAM C . HARDING FRED M. BOUCHER
Bro. ULYSSES S. GUYER
Senior Steward. Junior Steward. of Great Lights. of Book of Constitution. Sword Bearer.
as Grand Orator.
Bro. ROY W . STOOKEY
as Principal Architect.
Bro. F R E D R . NUZMAN Bro. GEORGE G . OGDEN
as Grand Pursuivant. as Grand Tyler.
The Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry, and marched to the site of the new Masonic Temple, where the corner-stone of that building was laid according to the Ceremonies of our Ancient Craft, in the presence of a large number of visiting brethren and a large concourse of citizens. The address was delivered by Bro. ULYSSES S . GUYBR of Kansas City, Kansas. The Grand Lodge then returned to the lodge room and was closed in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. CHARLES N . FOWLER,
Attest:
Grand Master. CHARLES H . MARTIN,
as Grand Secretary.
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
123
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
SALINA, KANSAS, July 12, 1927.
Upon request of Salina Lodge No. 60, of SaUna, Kansas, The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the hall of Salina Lodge No. 60, in Salina, Kansas, on .luly 12, 1927, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of Asbury Protestant Hospital of that city. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: M.-.W.-. R.-. W.'. W.\ Bro. Bro.
CHARLES N . FOWLER RICHARD H . CRAVENS VICTOR H . B . NORDLUND CHARLES A. BROOM ' FRED D . JOY
Bro. LAUREN C . HOUSBL Bro. and Rev. JOHN WESLEY BATES
Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro.
THOMAS P. BUSH EARL C . BRANSON HERBERT L . BROWN LEROY ROOT
W.'. ROBERT LENON
Grand Master. ..as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden. as Grand Treasurer. as.Grand Secretary. Grand Chaplain.
as Grand as Grand as Grand as Grand
Senior Junior Senior Junior
Deacon. Deacon. Steward. Steward.
Grand Marshal.
W.'. ALEXANDER BERG
as Grand Sword Bearer.
W.-. LAVBLLE C . HICKS Bro. URIJAH G . LADD
as Grand Pursuivant. as Grand Tyler.
The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. The Grand Lodge then formed in Grand Procession and marched to the site of the new hospital where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity, followed by an address by Dr. KEARNS, Pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Salina, Kansas. The Grand Lodge then returned to the hall of Salina Lodge No. 60, and was closed in Ample Form. CHARLES N . FOWLER,
Attest:
Grand Master. LAUREN C . HOUSEL,
as Grand Secretary.
124
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
MEDICINE LODGE, KANSAS, August 4,1927.
At the request of Delta Lodge No. 77, of Medicine Lodge, Kansas, The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas convened in Special Communication in the lodge room at Medicine Lodge, Kansas, on the 4th day of August, A. D. 1927, A. L. 5927, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new High School Building of District No. 1, of Barber County, Kansas. The M:. W.'. Grand Lodge was opened in Form on the first degree of Masonry, with the following officers: W.-. HARVEY O . DAVIS
W.-. W.\ W.-. Bro.
JANVIER F . SKINNER JOSEPH C . HINSHAW EAYMOND S . BENEFIEL ALBERT L . OER
..as Grand Master.
as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden. as Grand Treasurer.
Bro. OSCAR T . THOM
as Grand Secretary.
W.'. W.-. Bro. Bro.
as Grand as Grand as Grand as Grand
JAMES A. JORDAN L E R O Y E . HOOVLER FRED J. WADSWORTH WILLIAM F . BENEFIEL..
Bro. HARRY A. PALMER W.-. ERVIN E . LAKE
Senior Junior Senior Junior
Deacon. Deacon. Steward. Steward.
as Grand Marshal. as Grand Tyler.
The Grand Lodge then repaired to the site of the new High School Building where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity, after which the Grand Lodge returned to the lodge room where it was closed in Form on the first degree of Masonry. HARVEY 0 . DAVIS,
Attest:
as Grand Master. OSCAR T . THOM,
as Grand Secretary.
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
125
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
LEON, KANSAS, August 9,
1927.
Upon request of Joppa Lodge No. 223 of Leon, Kansas, The M.'. W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in that city on the 9th day of August, 1927, for the purpose of laying the • corner-stone of the new Public School Building. The several stations and places were filled by the following brethren: R.-. W.-. FERRIS M . H I L L
as Grand Master.
W.-. LAUREN D . RIGG Bro. ARLEY M . KISTLER Bro. CHARLES F . SHRIVER
...as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden.
Bro. WALTER C . WESTACOTT Bro. ARTHUR L . MARKS Bro. JOHN RENNER
Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro.
FREEMAN W . SEWARD JOHN A. DIXON FRANK M . TABING WILLIAM MCKAIG
Bro. EARL P. REAGOR
M.'.W.'. RICHARD E. BIRD
as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary. as Grand Chaplain.
:
as Grand as Grand as Grand as Grand
Senior Junior Senior Junior
Deacon. Deacon. Steward. Steward.
as Principal Architect.
as Grand Orator.
Bro. ROBERT J. CABEEN
as Grand Marshal.
Bro. ANTONIO L . NUNES
as Bearer of Great Lights.
W.-. HOMER T . HARDEN Bro. PERRY D . RIGG
Grand Pursuivant. as Grand Tyler.
The Grand Lodge was opened in Due Form on the first degree of Masonry, and marched to the site of the new Public School Building where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ceremonies of our Ancient Craft in the presence of a large body of brethren and a concourse of citizens. A very pleasing musical number was given by the Leon Concert Band. M.-. W.'. RICHARD E . BIRD, as Grand Orator, delivered a very interesting and instructive address after which the Grand Lodge repaired in Grand Procession to the lodge room and was closed in Due Form on the first degree of Masonry. FERRIS M . H I L L ,
Attest:
as Grand Master. ARTHUR L .
MARKS,
as Grand Secretary.
126
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION. DODGE CITY, KANSAS, September 5, 1927.
Upon the request of St. Bernard Lodge No. 222, A. F . & A. M., of Dodge City, Kansas, The M.'. W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the lodge room of St. Bernard Lodge on the 5th day of September, A. D. 1927, A. L. 5927, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the Southeast Protestant Hospital, a t Dodge City, Kansas. The several stations and places were filled by the following brethren: R.-. W.-. FERRIS M . HILL
as Grand Master.
R.-. W.-. CLARENCE G. NEVINS W.-. CHARLEY B . ERSKINE W.-. WILLIAM CARL FAY
as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden.
Bro. GEORGE B . DUGAN W.-. RICHARD W . EVANS Bro. ALEXANDER C . MCKEBVBR
as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary. as Grand Chaplain.
Bro. JAMES M . AIKIN Bro. M E R L E E . SMITH
as Grand Senior Deacon. as Grand Junior Deacon.
W.'. CLYDE E . SMITH
as Grand Marshal.
Bro. GLEN A. GILBERT Bro. ELBY O . LOLLAR
as Grand Senior Steward. as Grand Junior Steward.
-Bro. PHILLIP H . YOUNG Bro. ARTHUR A. MANN
Bro. Gus A. STOTLER
as Grand Pursuivant. as Principal Architect.
as Grand Tyler.
The Grand Lodge was opened in Due Form on the first degree of Masonry in the hall of St. Bernard Lodge. The Grand Lodge then formed in procession and marched to the site of the new Hospital, where the corner-stone of that building was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity, in the presence of a^large number of visiting brethren and citizens of southwest Kansas. Brother OLIVER C. BRONSTON, Pastor of the First M. E. Church, of Dodge City, Kansas, delivered a most interesting address. Grand Lodge then reformed in Procession, returned to the lodge room, and was closed in Due Form on the first degree of Masonry. F E R R I S M . HILL,
Attest:
as Grand Master. RICHARD W . EVANS,
as Grand Secretary.
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
127
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
CoLDWATER, KANSAS, September 28, 1927. Upon the request of Comanche Lodge No. 295, of Coldwater, Kansas, The M.-. W/. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the lodge room at Coldwater, Kansas, on the 28th day of September, A. D. 1927, A. L. 5927, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new Comanche County Court House. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: R.'. W.". FERRIS M . HILL
W.". LAWRENCE A. PEACOCK W.\ GEORGE F . BROWN W.'. OWEN M . OSBOURN W.". AusTA L. PARSONS
as Grand Master.
as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden, as Grand Treasurer.
R.'. W.-. J. LAWTON STANLEY
as Grand Secretary.
Bro. ISAAC L . WEBSTER. Bro. CLARENCE E . DEMUTH Bro. and Rev. H. W. CUMMINGS Bro. KARL G . EHRLICH W.'. ROBERT E . HATCH..'
as Grand as Grand as Grand as Grand as Grand
Bro. FOSTER J. KEESEB
Senior Deacon. Junior Deacon. Chaplain. Senior Steward. Junior Steward.
as Grand Tyler.
The Grand Lodge was opened in Due Form on the first degree of Masonry. The Grand Lodge then marched to the site of the new County Court House, where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity. A very interesting address was delivered by Brother KARL MILLER, after which the Grand Lodge returned to the lodge room and was closed in Due Form on the first degree of Masonry. FERRIS M . H I L L ,
Attest:
OS Grand Master. J. LAWTON STANLEY,
as Grand Secretary.
128
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
JETMORE, KANSAS, October 20,1927. .
At the request of Alpha Lodge No. 282, A. F . & A. M. of Jetmore, Kansas, The M.". W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication on the . 20th day of October, 1927, in the city of Jetmore, Kansas, for the purpose of dedicating the Hall in the New Masonic Temple. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: M.-.W.'. ELRICK C . COLE R.-. W.". CLARENCE G. NEVINS W.-. CHARLEY B . ERSKINE W.'. HAYES FLOYD
as Grand Master. as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden.
W.'. THOMAS C . WILSON Bro. WALTER E . SMITH Bro. WILLIAM C . TEMPLETON
as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary. as Grand Chaplain.
W.'. W.\ W.\ Bro.
as Grand as Grand as Grand as Grand
WILLIAM M . RHEA HARRY M . HALLOWAY HARRY LEIDIGH HERBERT L . AMES
Senior Junior Senior Junior
Deacon. Deacon. Steward. Steward.
Bro. HARRY Y . BREESB
as Grand Marshal.
W.-. RoscoE PETERSON W.-. WALTON S . KENYON
as Grand Architect. as Bearer of the Great Lights.
Bro. GUY R H E A
)
Bro. HARRY CRAGHEAD
> as Grand Taper Bearers.
W.-. CLARENCE JONES Bro. R O Y C . KINGSLEY
) )
Bro. CLYDE D . BLOUNT
[• as Bearers of the "Lodge".
W.\ ROBERT O . BURNS
)
W.'. EDWIN T . WILSON
as Grand Pursuivant.
W.-. ROY SOREM
as Grand Tyler.
The M.'. W.". Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry and the Hall was then dedicated in accordance with the Ancient Ceremonies. M.-. W.-. ELRICK C . COLE of Great Bend, Kansas, delivered a very impressive oration on " L e t There Be Light", to the brethren of Jetmore and many surrounding lodges present. The Grand Lodge was then closed in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. ELRICK C . COLE,
Attest:
as Grand Master. WALTER E . SMITH,
as Grand Secretary.
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
129
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
SALINA, KANSAS, October 27, 1927.
At the request of Salina Lodge No. 60 of SaUna, Kansas, The M.*. W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication on the 27th day of October, 1927, in the city of Salina, Kansas, at 2:30 p. M.", for the purpose of dedicating the new Masonic Temple in that city. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: M.-.W.-. CHARLES N . FOWLER R.-. W.\ FERRIS M . HILL R.-. W.'. GEORGE F . BEEZLBY R.\ W.-. RICHARD H . CRAVENS
Grand Master. Deputy Grand Master. Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden.
Bro. CLARENCE P. BROWN W.\ HENRY WALLENSTEIN Bro. and Rev. JOHN WESLEY BATES
as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary. Grand Chaplain.
M.'.W.'. THOMAS G . FITCH M.'.W.*. THOMAS L . BOND
as Grand Senior Deacon. as Grand Junior Deacon.
W.-. ROBERT LENON
W.'. WILLIAM E . CAIN W.'. LAUREN D . RIGG W.-. VICTOR H . D . NORDLUND W.'. HOMER T . HARDEN W.\ W. AMER BURNETT
Grand Marshal.
Grand Sword Bearer. Grand Senior Steward. as Grand Junior Steward. Grand Pursuivant. Grand Tyler.
The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. The Temple was then dedicated in accordance with the Ancient Ceremony. W.-. Brother DALLAS GROVER delivered an oration on the subject of Freemasonry, Virtue and Universal Benevolence, which was very instructive and appreciated by all present. The Grand Lodge was then closed in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. CHARLES N . FOWLER,
Attest:
Grand Master. HENRY WALLENSTEIN,
as Grand Secretary.
130
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION. CIMARRON, KANSAS, December 28, 1927.
At the request of Preston Lodge No. 283, Cimarron, Kansas, The M.'. W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the Masonic Hall at Cimarron, Kansas, on the 28th day of December, A. D. 1927, A. L. 5927, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new Gray County Court House. The M.'. W.'. Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry, with the following officers: M.'. W.-. CHARLES A. LOUCKS
as Grand Master.
W.'. CLARENCE G . NEVINS Bro. ALLEN G . CHAPLIN Bro. FRANK W . TOLAND
as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. ..as Grand Junior Warden.
W.-. CLARENCE E . MACKEY W.'. REUBEN SHERWOOD
...as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary.
Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro.
JOSEPH S. LUPTON AARON OTT CARREL E . BUTCHER WILEY C . PARKER
W.-. WALTER C . BEAN Bro. WILLIAM BARNES
as as as as
Grand Grand Grand Grand
Senior Junior Senior Junior
Deacon. Deacon. Steward. Steward.
as Grand Tyler. as Grand Chaplain.
Bro. A. N . SMITH
as Grand Orator.
W.-. CHARLEY B . ERSKINE Bro. CLARENCE LUND
as Grand Marshal. as Grand Pursuivant.
W.-. D. CLARENCE DAVIS Bro. H. P. HERTZ
as Grand Sword Bearer. as Grand Architect.
The Grand Lodge then repaired to the public street, formed in Grand Procession, and marched to the site of the new Gray County Court House, where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity, followed by a splendid address given by Brother A. N. SMITH, pastor of the Cimarron Community Church. The Grand Lodge then marched to the Masonic Hall where remarks were made by M.-. W.-. Brother WILLIAM L . BURDICK, Past Grand Master, after which The M.'.W.'. Grand Lodge was closed in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. CHARLES A. LOUCKS,
Attest:
as Grand Master. R E U B E N SHERWOOD,
as Grand Secretary.
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
131
REPORT OF LIBRARIAN.
R.-.W.". ALBERT K . WILSON, Librarian, presented the following report, which was referred to the Committee on Reports of Grand Officers: To The M.: W:. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: Your Librarian can only report continued additions to our library in the way of books, magazines, periodicals and other data, which when indexed and catalogued will prove of great value to the Craft in this jurisdiction. As indicated in this report one year ago your Librarian hoped to begin the work of cataloguing and indexing the library, but with unexpected work thrust upon him in his secretarial duties it was impossible to either give the subject his personal attention or transfer any of the office force to this department without greatly impairing the service. It is barely possible that with the present force this work may be started during the present year; however, the library and museum cannot be made a permanent and useful adjunct to our valuable records in the office of the Grand Secretary until thoroughly competent help has been secured. It is no easy matter to secure the services of one versed in library work and who also has a knowledge of the titles, various branches and language of the Fraternity. Another obstacle in the way of carrying forward the work in the library is that of finances. The present income of the Grand Lodge will not permit of the incurring of additional expenses, and notwithstanding the repeated authority given your Librarian to add necessary help this cannot be done unless we have sufficient revenue to meet the obligations. There is no disposition on the part of your Librarian to become unduly alarmed, yet as a matter of expediency the work of arranging, cataloguing and indexing the library should be done during t h e incumbency of your present Grand Secretary as he alone has full knowledge of the contents of the library and museum. This report is therefore submitted for such action as the Grand Lodge may deem best.' During the year the following have been added to the library: "Origin of Freemasonry" by EDWARD T . SCHULTZ, P. S- G. W. " T h e Mason as a Citizen" by THOMAS EDWARD FREEK. 1926.
" Mackey's Masonic Jurisprudence" by ROBERT I. CLEGft. 1927. "Syllabus of Masonic Study." National Masonic Research Society. "Birth and Growth of the Grand Lodge of England, 1717-1926" by GILBERT W . DAYNES.
132
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Masonic Year Book Grand Lodge of England, 1926. Masonic Year Book Grand Lodge of England, 1927. General Statutes of Honduras. General Statutes of Grand Lodge of Colombia. Constitution of Grand Lodge of Colombia. Masonic Code Grand Lodge of Tennessee. Minutes of Conference of Grand Masters of Masons in the United States, 1927. "Masonry and Tuberculosis". Committee on Masonic Service and Education of Grand Lodge of North Dakota. 1926. Report of Board of Masonic Relief of Massachusetts. 1926 Proceedings Supreme Council A. & A. S. R. Northern Jurisdiction. (115th Annual Meeting.) 1927 Proceedings Supreme Council A. & A. S. R. Northern Jurisdiction. History of Kaw Lodge No. 272, by FRANK P. STRICKLAND, J E .
Ceremony of Laying of Foundation Stone of Masonic Peace Memorial, London, England. Transactions Leeds' Installed Masters' Association, 1925-1926. Minutes Seventeenth Annual Convention George Washington Masonic National Memorial Association. 1927. "Templar Banners." Proceedings Indiana Grand Chapter Order Eastern Star. 1927. Historical Sketch of Cryptic Rite Pilgrimage to Colorado and Pike's Peak, August 6, to 13, 1899. Masonic Services a t Tomb of GEORGE WASHINGTON, December 14, 1899. "History of Scottish Rite Masonry in Chicago" by GEORGE W . WARVELLE.
1907.
"Beacon Lights of History" (8 vols) by Doctor JOHN LORD. "Story of Council Grove on the Santa Fe Trail" by LALLA M . BRIGHAM.
1921.
Presented by GEORGE P. MOREHOUSE.
"Plucky Lindberg" (1st and 2nd editions) by GERALD GAGE. " Masonic Presidents, Vice Presidents and Signers" by WILLIAM BOYDEN.
Fraternally submitted, ALBERT K . WILSON,
Librarian.
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
133
PRESENTATION OF OIL PAINTING OF M.-.W.-. OWEN A. BASSETT.
R.-.W.-. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH, on behalf of Acacia Lodge No. 9, A. F. & A. M., Lawrence Chapter No. 4, R. A. M., Lawrence Council No. 14, R. & S. M., and De Molay Commandery No. 4, K. T., of Lawrence, presented to the M.". W.'. Grand Lodge the portrait in oil of our late Past Grand Master OWEN A. BASSETT, to which reference is made in the report of the Grand Secretary, and in so doing he had the following to say: Judge OWEN A. BASSETT was one of Lawrence's rnost distinguished citizens. He served on the bench several years, and was recognized as a Jurist of profound learning, the possessor of an acute and subtle intellect and of deep erudition. His interpretation of the law was searching and.rigorous. He had a fine sense of equity and justice. As a result of a wonderfully retentive memory, his knowledge of the law was a surprise to all who knew him. He had read very widely, and he seemed never to forget important matters. He was regarded as a jurist of real distinction. He seemed to have had an inborn fondness for Masonry, so when he became a Mason, the same earnestness and zeal which characterized his legal work was found in this newest field. His knowledge of the Masonic Institution was little less than marvelous. Certainly few men can have known Masonry as he did. He knew its traditions, its history, its laws, its minutiae" and its controversaries. He was specially interested in its laws, and anything that involved critical discussion, and fine discriminations, possessing as he did an almost unrivalled legal mind, when he passed upon a mooted point the matter was regarded aspractically settled. He was a man of robust habit, staunch, firm, unflinching, and if found to be in the wrong, always ready to yield if a superior argument was forthcoming. He was simple in his tastes, affable, genial, with a real "genius for friendship". He was in a sense a real mentor, a guide, a philosopher, and in the real sense of the word an unflinching friend. Perhaps the most outstanding characteristic of this man was his surprising encyclopedic knowledge of Masonic usage and law. He seems to have read everything about Masonic law, and most surprisingly, he seems to have remembered all he read, so that when a legal question came up, with his wide reading and with his ability to interpret law clearly and forcibly, his word was regarded as final.
134
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Judge BASSETT, although dead for some years, is still a powerful influence in Lawrence. He is still talked about and still quoted. He is not a mere tradition. He is still loved and his memory is highly revered. It seemed fitting to the Masons of Lawrence that this painting so admirable and life-like should find a permanent place in the Masonic Building. It should stimulate all Masons to a higher regard for Masonic Institutions, and to a profound study of 'Masonry. On behalf of the Masons of Lawrence,-1 present the painting to the Grand Lodge.
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
135
REPORT OF SECRETARY OF MASONIC HOME BOARD.
M.-.W.-.THOMAS G . FITCH submitted the following report, which, on his motion, was received and ordered printed in the Proceedings: To The M:. W.: Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: I have the honor to present herewith excerpts from my report made to the Board of Directors of the Kansas Masonic Home at its annual meeting in the city of Wichita, Kansas, on Wednesday, January 18,1928: To the Board of Directors of the Kansas Masonic Home: Within the year ended December 31, 1927, I received in cash items $239,889.35 from the following sources: Endowment Donations $ 103,541 18 Grand Lodge Relief—A. K. Wilson, Grand Secretary 4,657 50 Grand Lodge Relief Refund 20 00 Mortgage Loans Paid 36,700 00 0 . E. S. Christmas Fund $1,706 75 O. E. S. Fruit Fund 51178 2,218-53 O. E. S. Hepler Music Fund Music Fund, Special Unknown Donor Morse Land Account Leighty Land Account Nelson Land Account Lobdell-Stuart Library Fund—interest Funerals and Cemetery Refund Guardianship Funds Miscellaneous Receipts
,
145 00 500 00 " 544 10 1,300- 00 100 00 33 76 56 13 20,706 22 455 03
Regular Income. Grand Lodge Per Capita Eastern Star Per Capita Interest Loans Interest Bank Balance Total
'.
$21,066 35 479 75
$41,082 -50 6.283 30 21,546 10
68,911 90 $289,889 35
All collections have been remitted to the Treasurer of the Home as shown by carbon copies of letters of transmittal herewith and acknowledged by receipts from him. For your information and in order that permanent record may be made, Endowment Donations is composed of the following:
136
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
From Organizations. M.-.W.-.Grand Lodge, A. F. & A. M. of Kansas $ 52,000 00 • M.-. E.-.Grand Chapter, R. A. M. of Kansas 29,000 00 Raising Fees, 1927 16,925 00 Grand Commandery Knights Templar Christmas, 1926.... 687 81 Grand Chapter Order Eastern Star 1,941 92 Caswell Consistory, A. & A. S. R., Fall Class, 1926 27 70 A. K. Wilson, Gr. Secy., Certifying Life Memberships 4 75 From Estates by Bequest. Estate Charles Youngheim, Albert Pike No. 303 Estate M. E. Greene, Member Home Family
200 00 25 00
From Members and Friends. Jacob I. Snyder, Spivey No. 347, Res. Home Lake, Colo,.$ Massey Children, Members of Home Nancy E. Wartick, Member of Home Roy Crawford, Topeka Consistory, A. & A. S. R Unknown Donor, Arkansas City, Kansas E. H. Alesdorf, Siloam No. 225, Topeka V. Earl Wintermute, Siloam No. 225, Topeka Adolph Vogeli, Hiram No. 68, Leavenworth Total for year On January 1, 1927, the Endowment Fund was
500 1,500 500 200 25 1 2 1
00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00
$ 103,541 18 261,056 12
Making total in the Endowment Fund on January 1, 1928 ..$ 364,597 30 Within the year warrants were drawn in the sum of $230,504.19, charged to the following accounts: Investments made Accrued interest on same Interest Allowance, Hepler Music Fund Interest Allowance, Weller Estate closed Grand Lodge Relief O. E. S. Christmas Fund, 1927 0. E. S. Fruit Fund, 1927 Leighty Land Account Nelson Land Account Beck Land Account. Morse Land Account McAlister Land Account Lobdell-Stuart Library Fund 0. E. S. Furnishing Fund Maintenance Funerals and Cemetery Insurance Furniture and Fixtures Real Estate and Improvements Guardian Funds Total
$ 149,000 00 447 46 $
60 00 114 09 1,706 75 511 78
$149,447 46 174 09 4,702 50 2,218 53 36 51 46 186 600 177 60 63,252 848 66 777 495 7,362
40 79 76 38 00 50 00 42 49 83 32 55 17
$230,504 19
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
137
Included in the item of Maintenance will be found: General Expenses. Secretary's Office $ 704 15 Director's Expense 240 08 Home Physician, 1926 800 00 Employees Bonus, 1926 585 00 Bonds, Secretary & Treasurer .... 87 50 W. D. Snell Services 66 17 Safe Deposit Box 35 00 $2,517 90 Repairs to woodwork Repairs to sash Repairs to stucco Repairs to Chapel Rugs Replaced Shades Replaced Seeding Lawn..:
Repairs and Replacement.'!. $ 480 50 251 22 3,750 10 63 94 869 02 22 35 445 96 $5,883 09
$ 8,400 99
Detailed account of Disbursements by Superintendent charged Maintenance Account: Plumbing $ 418 Furniture and Fixtures 165 Repairs 1,432 Salaries and Wages 10,334 Hospital, Physician and Drugs 4,319 Automobile '. , 786 Telephone and Telegrams..: 110 Light 2,076 Water 1,126 Fuel 4,278 Laundry and Soap 1,920 Groceries 14,305 Meat and Lard 4,009 Barbering and Street Car Fare 994 Dry Goods, Clothing and Shoes 3,740 Table and Bed Supplies • 243 House Supplies 1,150 School and Office Supplies 1,358 Power .^ 811 Stock, Hay and i?eed . 95 Garden and Lawn 324 Miscellaneous 847 Total $54,851 General Expense Items heretofore shown 2,517 Repair and Replacement Items heretofore shown 5,883 Making total charged to Maintenance Account $63,252 To this total we might with propriety add items of legitimate expense charged to accounts as follows: Funerals and Cemetery $ 848 Insurance 66 Real Estate and Improvements 495 Lobdell-Stuart Library Fund 177 Making Grand Total of $64,840
to 68 20 57 59 68 22 70 01. 08 77 74 41 73 70 42 37 80 16 26 90 59 85 43 90 09 42
49 83 55 50 79
138
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Summary of Accounts for the year follows: January 1, 1927.—Balance in Treasury December 31, 1927.—Receipts for year 1927
$
Total
6,480 37 239,889 35
$246,369 72
December 31, 1927.—Paid by Warrants in 1927 December 31, 1927.—Balance in Treasury
...$ 230,504 19 15,865 53
Total
$246,369 72.
Trial Balance of Home Accounts follows: Debit Balances. Treasury Cash Morse Land Account Mortgage Loans Real Estate and Improvements C. M. Beck Land Account .' Maintenance Funerals and Cemetery Furniture and Fixtures Insurance McAlister Land Account Miscellaneous Expense Credit Balances:
Guardian Funds Leighty Land Account Interest O. E. S. Per Capita Endowment Knights Templar Building Fund Nelson Land Account Hepler Music Fund Grand Lodge Per Capita Grand Lodge Donations, original O. E. S. Building Fund A. F. & A. M. Building Fund 0. E. S. Furnishing Fund Morris Educational Fund Lobdell-Stuart Library Fund Payne Land Account Miscellaneous Receipts Music Fund, Special
;
$ 15,865 1,187 380,150 501,716 101 707,714 11,282 40,678 9,410 3,299 578
53 56 00 62 60 73 13 10 75 88 86
$1,671,985 26 $ 16,700 840 154,244 85,812 364,597 50 75 1,205 613,226 59,666 35,000 329,651 6,027 100 779 125 3,381 500
85 64 31 70 30 00 42 00 30 . 41 00 01 56 00 96 84 96 00
$1,671,985 26 Above items represent total in each Fund since establishment of the Home. The total of $380,150.00 is invested in First Mortgage Farm Loans and Bonds. As a matter of fact, in addition to the $380,150.00 so invested we have $2,324.18 due from several items in the Guardianship Fund Account, and upon which we will eventually realize. With the exception of one loan, we have no delinquent interest items. We
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
139
are advised that interest will be paid on this loan within a very short time. All taxes for 1926 and prior years on lands mortgaged to us have been reported paid. In the year we collected $21,546.10 in interest on our investments, an approximate average of 5 67-100 %. We will be fortunate if we average 5 ) ^ % on our investments in 1928. Loans on hand, January 1, 1927 $267,850 00 Loans paid in 1927 36,700 00 Additions to Loan Account in 1927
$231,150 00 149,000 00
Loans on hand, January 1, 1928
$380,150 00
Of this amount "• 2,000 82,800 28,650 234,000 31,200 1,500
00 00 00 00 00 00
draws interest draws nterest draws interest draws interest draws interest draws interest
at at at at at at
4% 4 J^ % 53^% 6% 63^% 7%
Financial Statement, January 1, 1928: Cash on hand Loans Morse Land Account Beck Land Account McAlister Land Account Guardianship Funds
,
'.
Total Endowment Fund Mary A. Hepler Music Fund Morris Educational Fund Lobdell-Stuart Library Fund Music Fund, Special Guardianship Fund Balance in General Fund Total
$ 15,865 380,150 1,187 101 3,299 2,324
53 00 56 60 38 18
$402,928 25 Liabilities.
$364,597 1,205 100 779 500 19,025 16,720
30 00 00 96 00 03 96
$402,928 25
Balance to credit of General Fund, January 1, 1927, was....$ 12,538 81 Balance to credit of General Fund, January 1,1928, was..,. 16,720 96 Showing gain of 1920 1921 1922 1923
$
4,182 15
Annual cost of Maintenance at the Home since 1920 follows: 1924 $53,320 93 $40,913 71 1925 52,069 03 39,782 65 1926 56,205 31 ; 42,770 27 46,148 49 I 1927 ,. 63,252 42
140
PBOCEEDINOS
OF THE
February
By months for years ended November 30, 1926 and 1927, warrants charged to Maintenance Account were as follows: December January February March April May June July August September October November
.'
General Expenses.. Repairs and Replacements Total
1926. $ 3,731 4,117 4,170 4,123 4,784 4,369 4,198 4,111 4,391 5,876 4,952 5,153
66 61 68 72 11 57 83 37 89 99 95 18
1927. $ 4,847 16 4,088 93 4,521 59 4,549 17 4,912 13 4,439 07 4,782 36 3,736 76 4,337 95 4,901 93 4,663 63 5,070 75
$53,982 56 2,222 75 •
$54,851 43 2,517 90 5,883 09
$56,205 31
$63,252 42
You will note that $5,883.09 for Repairs and Replacements has been charged this year to Maintenance Account rather than to Real Estate and Improvements and Furniture and Fixtures as in preceding years. Deducting this $5,883.09 from the Maintenance Debit of $63,252.42 and the actual maintenance cost as compared with previous years will be found to have been $57,369.33 or $1,166.02 in excess of maintenance over 1926 whereas the average number of members was increased from 192 to 197. • Superintendent's report shows average membership of the Home Family since 1919 as follows: 1919 100 1922 154 1925 186 1920 1131^ 1923 161 1926 192 1921 128 1924 174 1927 ...197 At present of the 267 names on the roster of the Home 212 are actually in the Home. Per Capita cost based on above averages shows as follows: 1920 $360 47 1922 $277 78 1924 $306 44 1926 $293 25 1921 310 80 1923 286 64 1925 279 94 1927 321 08 This includes all expense items of the Home and of Administration, in fact all items save those charged to Real Estate, Furniture and Fixtures and Funerals and Cemetery. It wdll be observed that the average membership in the Home was increased from 192 in 1926 to 197 in 1927, and that the per capita cost per member was increased from $293.25 in 1926 to $321.08 in 1927. However for per capita cost of maintenance for comparison with 1926 upon same basis will be found to have been $291.22 excluding debits to Repairs and Replacements.
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE OF KANSAS.
,
141
Our income for the year 1928 may be estimated as follows: Grand Lodge Per Capita $42,000 00 Order Eastern Star Per Capita 6,400 00 Interest on Loans 23,000 00 Interest on Bank Balance .' 400 00 Total
$71,800 00
Expenses for the year 1928 will probably not be much in excess for those of 1927. Expenditures on behalf of the M.'. W.\ Grand Lodge of A. F . & A.' M. of Kansas for the year ended November 30,1927, were $4,702.50. During the years 1925-26 refunds were credited to this account of $45.00 leaving balance due of $4,657.50, which has been repaid to us through the office of the Grand Secretary. We have insurance in force as follows: FIRE.
Main Buildings. Expires. National Liberty 6-15-29 Ins. Co. of N. A 6-15-29 Philadelphia 11-25-29 Milwaukee 6-24-29 American Central.... 6-24-29 American Central...11-28-29
Amount. $ 5,000 00 5,000 00 5,000 00 5,000 00 5,000 00 2,500 00 $27,500 00
Chapel. American Central....
1-9-30
$ 5,000 00
5,000 00
6-20-29
$ 7,000 00
7,000 00
Barn and Contents. National Liberty
..$39,500 00
Total Fire on Buildings Furniture—Main Buildings. American Central.... 7-26-32
$
500 00
Home 7-26-32 American Central.... 6-24-29
1,000 00 4,000 00
$ 6,000 00
Furniture—Isolation Cottage. Phoenix 6-26-29
$ 1,000 00
1,000 00
Fixtures—^Laundry. Aetna
$ 1,000 00.
1,000 00
6-24-28
8,000 00 ..$47,500 00
Total BOILER AND ACCIDENT.
Hartford Steam Boiler Co
9-1-29
$15,000 00
$15,000 00
142
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
TORNADO.
Buildings. Expires. Rhode Island 2-18-29 Camden Fire 2-18-29 National Liberty 2-18-29 American Central 2-18-29 Aetna 2-18-29 American Central 2-18-29 Hartford 2-18-29 Phoenix 2-18-29 Ins. Co. of N. A 2-18-29 Central States 2-18-29 American Insurance..2-18-29 National 2-18-29 Niagara 2-18-29 New Hampshire 2-18-29 Niagara 2-18-29 Star 2-18-29 Philadelphia 2-18-29 Eagle Star 2-18-29 Home Fire & M 2-18-29 London Assurance ,..,2-18-29 Commercial Union,,,.2-18-29 Providence Wash 2-18-29 Firemen's Ins 2-18-29 U. S. Fire N . Y 6- 7-30 Total
Amount. $10,000 00 10,000 00 30,000 00 10,000 00 25,000 00 10,000. 00 10,000 00 15,000 00 15,000 00 10,000 00 10,000 00 10,000 00 15,000 00 15,000 00 15,000 00 15,000 00 10,000 00 10,000 00 20,000 00 20,000 00 20,000 00 10,000 00 10,000 00 10,000 00 $335,000 00
Above covers tornado insurance on all the buildings on the Home grounds and is written upon the basis of 90 % co-insurance. Completed papers in all mortgage loans including insurance policies, duplicate of receipts for all moneys received and letters of transmittal of same together with all books of account of the Secretary, duly balanced are herewith presented with this report. Fraternally submitted, THOMAS G . FITCH,
Secretary.
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
143
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON REPORTS OF GRAND OFFICERS.
M/.W.".ELMER F . STRAIN, chairman, presented the following report, which, on his motion, was adopted: To The M:. W:. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: All men and nations have their peculiar marks and characteristics. Kansas Masonry is noted (and some say notorious), for her steady and insistent adherence to the original plan. Regardless of the views of others it has become great in religious attention to its own business. We may be lonesome, but we are happy in the faith of our Fathers and the Institution as they have handed it down; The preamble to the Grand Master's address is a forcible presentation of the fundamental ethics of Freemasonry, and the fallacy of modernism. We commend his courageous stand and thank him for the years of official service and wish for him many happy and useful years as he comes again to the ranks. There are a number of subjects treated in the Grand Master's address which need no special reference because they are in accordance with law or custom or are within the province of the Grand Master. For easy reference, these are enumerated: Installation of Grand Sword Bearer! Lodges Constituted. Appointment of Grand Orator. Grand Representatives Appointed. Special Dispensations. Corner-stones. Dedications. Official Visits. •Requests to Confer Degrees. Special Appropriations. Conferring Degrees in Less than Lawful Time. Special Trial Commissioners. District Deputy Grand Masters. Special Address. Exemplification of the Work. Investments. Conclusion. Specific reference of other subjects are recommended as follows: Necrology, to the Committee on Necrology.
144
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
To the Committee on Chartered Lodges and Lodges Under Dispensation, subjects headed: Lodges Under Dispensation. Survey of Lodges. Charter Arrested. To the Committee on Jurisprudence, subjects headed: Ruling. Advancement—Status of Membership. Discipline. Master, Shawnee Lodge No. 54. Trial Commissioners and Masonic Trials. Decisions. The recommendation for the continuance of the Committee on Revision of Laws is approved. There are a number of important subjects which cannot well go to any of the. Standing Committees and a Special Committee is recommended for the handling of subjects headed: Relief. Bonding Lodge Funds. Degree Teams. Improvements at the Kansas Masonic Home. . Our Masonic Home. The District Meeting has become an important agency for the improvement of the Work and general conditions. Last year's plan of operation was so unusually successful and so satisfactory to the membership in general, that the record, the Grand Master's plan, and his repoj't upon this subject are referred to the incoming Grand Master. The Grand Treasurer's Report is referred to the Committee on Finance and Property. The Grand Secretary, who occupies the front room in all our hearts, has presented his usual splendid report with reference to the detailed operation of our institution and shown forcibly, directly, and by inference, their important bearing upon our general status. A number of the subjects will require no special reference, being merely carrying out the provisions of the law or custom. These are enumerated as follows: Proceedings, 1927. Historical Registry and Abstract. Charters Issued. Volume XX. Restoration of Charters. Complete List of Charters Filed. Data Concerning Charters.
1927-28.
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LODGE
OF KANSAS.
145
Books of Annual Returns. Masonic Districts. Changes in District Deputy Grand Masters. Grand Representatives near other Grand Lodges. Grand Representatives near our Grand Lodge. Indexing Proceedings. Historical Cases. Transcripts of Trials. Conferring Degrees in Less than Lawful Time. Reduced Railroad Fare. Report of Illegal Suspensions. Copies of Charters, Lawrence Lodge No. 6, and Acacia Lodge No. 9. . . Bonding of Lodge Treasurers and Secretaries. Map of Districts. Grand Secretary's Certificates. Official Circulars. Americus Lodge No. 109. Subjects requiring committee consideration, are referred as follows: To the Committee on Chartered Lodges and Lodges Under Dispensation, subjects headed: Lodges Under Dispensation. Annual Reports. Illegal Elections. No Date of Election Given. No Date for Holding Stated Communications. Lodges Denied Representation. Concerning our Membership. Neosho Lodge No. 27, Le Roy. To the Committee on Jurisprudence, subjects: Members of Late Brainerd Lodge No. 280 Subject to Suspension. Subjects Overlooked by the Proper Committee at Last Annual Communication. To the Committee on Finance and Property, subjects: List of Regular Lodges. Check for Payment Grand Lodge Dues Protested. Estimated Revenue and Expenses. Schedule " A . " Schedule " B . " Schedule " C . " Schedule " D . " Schedule " E . " Schedule " F . " Cash Account.
146
•
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
The following subjects in the Grand Master's address and the Grand Secretary's report, are being handled by this committee by agreement: Outside Organizations and Business Enterprises. The refusal to recognize outside organizations or countenance commercialization of the Fraternity, is in accord with a wise policy and is suitable for the admonition of our constantly changing stream of lodge officers. It is regrettable that knowledge of the structure is so limited by the few who promote these matters, that they will seek to use Masonry for such purposes. The reaction cannot be other than harmful. If the " t u b cannot stand on its own bottom" without using our Institution as a crutch, it is safe and desirable to let it alone. Propaganda. The effort to interest this Grand Lodge in National movements comes annually to the Grand Officers. Regardless of merit in the various propositions, to make them our. business contemplates a changed plan. Innovations mean weakness and decay. We are unanimous upon our plan of building good citizens and caring for those who are not able to meet life's battles. Why change our course. Language to properly express our attitudeuponthese nationalistic questions is easily misunderstood. No offense is intended at any time. Our attitude is that of true brethren toward the work and efforts of others, and our determination to continue unchanged in our own operation is positive and deep seated. The decision was reached after calm deliberation and not by hasty action or superficial thinking. Dramatized Work. The Grand Master's recommendation of instruction for lodges using the dramatized form of Work is approved. Halls Burned. The Grand Secretary's fire warning is well supported by examples. What lodge will furnish the next horrible example? Masters of lodges should handle at home, insure property and protect records. List of Charters Filed. There is a definite call for a large group of lodges to turn in[their charters, or copies of the original, and secure a certified copy without cost. Just a few of the group are, Wyandotte No. 3, Nemaha No. 13, Circleville No. 20, Mankato No. 87, Delaware No. 96, Fidelity No. 106, Alma No. 161, Atwood No. 164, Blue Rapids No. 169, Phillipsburg No. 184, and many others, probably yours. Look the list'over and act.
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
147
Oil Painting of.M.: W.:Owen A. Bassett. This committee speaks the appreciation of this Grand Body for this fine memorial to a great and good brother. When your vote is recorded upon this report the personal touch will be set up and the joy of the donors will be complete. We cannot pass without noting in sadness the absent lodge. Always there will be the regret that one had the opportunity to have a part in this fine work but the deep thinkers were not at lodge. History of Lodges. Too much stress cannot be laid upon this important work. Have your history started this year by the best talent now available; it can be added to at any time, and next year some source of information may be closed by death. FINAL.
Having far exceeded the legal limit of our duty, may we not for the general good ask you to take this Grand Lodge home to your lodge. The meetings can be made more interesting by use of the great volume of important matter available. Notify the brethren that Grand Lodge will be reproduced at the next meeting of your lodge. Hear the Grand Master's address by the best reader you have. If your Secretary is not a second edition of our own "A. K.," secure a Grand Secretary for the report. It will take all the spare time of a year to get started on the good material available and the chairs will be filled and interest renewed. Fraternally submitted, ELMER F . STRAIN, JOHN W . NEILSON, FRANK E . DAVIS,
HERBERT R . HULL, LUCIAN L . CONSTANT, Committee.
A P P O I N T M E N T OF SPECIAL COMMITTEE.
In accordance with the recommendation of the Committee on Reports of Grand Officers, the Grand Master announced the following Special Committee: M.-. W.". JOHN W . NBILSON, R.-. W.-. JAY B . KIRK, and W.-. RICHARD H. CRAVENS.
148
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
REPORT OF C O M M I T T E E ON NECROLOGY.
W.-. FRANCIS M . PEARL, chairman, submitted the following report, which, on motion, was adopted by a rising vote, followed by an invocation by Brother and Rev. JOHN WESLEY BATES, Grand Chaplain: To The M.:W.: Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: It is meet and proper that we should pause in our daily avocations, and on occasions such as this, take note of the work of the Grim Reaper, and pay tribute to those of our brethren who have answered the call, and been summoned to the land where our fathers have gone, before us. It was JOB, I believe, who pronounced the question, "If a man die, shall ho live again," and from that day until the present, that question is one that has occupied the attention of philosophers and sages of all ages. To some, the all devouring scythe of time means the end of man's existence, and to others, the beginning of a new life in another and •different world. Death is just as natural as birth, and all that are born must die. Personally, I accept the teachings of our Fraternity, and firmly believe that there is an existence beyond the grave; that the passing from this world opens the door in the next, and that we shall reap what we have sown. I believe with PAUL, that if death ends all, then of all men we are most miserable. Masons are taught to believe in a Supreme Being, and the Kingdom over which this Supreme Being presides is a place where the souls of just men made perfect, will enjoy unutterable and unspeakable happiness through all eternity. In every degree we are exhorted to keep right with GOD, and our fellownian. We are told that the square of virtue should be the rule and guide in all our transactions with mankind, but if this is the end of all existence, what incentive is there for the observance of such rules? A great craftsman who has gone before, none other than the late WILLIAM JENNINGS BRYAN, in one of his lectures, stated that he could
not conceive of any greater punishment that could be meted out to man than to have to live through eternity in the world to come with those whom we had wronged while here on earth. If those of our brethren who have gone before, who sleep the sleep that knows no waking, have not received the thrilling invitation, " Come Ye Blessed, Inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the Foundation of the World," then are all our ceremonies and obligations sounding brass and tinkling cymbal. During the past year the all-devouring scythe of time has been busy, and many of the Craft have been called to answer the question propounded by JOB, "If a man die, shall he live again." Many of our bright and shining lights have been called, and passed to that bourne
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
.
149
from which no traveler returns. To them the veil has been pulled aside, and they have been permitted an insight into eternity, and have received an answer to that question which those of us who remain, are still considering. Expressing the hope that the most ardent expectations of those who have gone before; those who have been called to their reward, are not disappointed, we pause for a few minutes, to think of them, and to recall their virtues, and inquire of ourselves, if we are ready to open the door to the next world, and close it on this for all time to come. The Master of men has said "That narrow is the gate that leads unto eternal life, and few there are who go in thereat." During the year of 1927 the sickle has been busy in our ranks. They have been called from all parts of the state, and from every condition of life; but few, if any, of the lodges in this Grand Jurisdiction, have escaped the call. Our sympathies are extended to all the bereaved ones, whatever may have been their lot or calling, and it is meet and proper that those who have served in more distinguished stations should receive some special consideration in keeping with the rank attained by faithful and efficient work among the Craft, and let us hope that they have received the welcome plaudit," Well done, Thou Good and Faithful Servant," and that they have entered into the joy of the Lord. The Grim Reaper is no respecter of persons; to Him the scepter of the prince and the staff of the beggar are as one; the power of wealth, the dreams of ambition, the innocence of youth and the charms of beauty are alike victims of His universal dominion. Those who have worn the purple of our Order are victims alike with the humblest Entered Apprentice in the northeast corner. HENRY FREEMAN MASON.
Past Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Kansas, was called May 4, 1927. Brother MASON was born at Racine, Wisconsin, February 17, 1860, and with his parents moved to Madison at an early age, where he was educated in the high school and university of his native state. For a few years he worked in a newspaper office. In 1886, he came to Kansas and began the practice of law at Garden City, where he rose to eminence and was chosen one of the Justices of the Supreme Court where he attained high rank as a jurist, a just judge, and left . behind him an enviable record at both bar and bench. Brother MASON was twice married, but no children were born of either marriage. He died in the city of Topeka, May 4, 1927, at the age of sixty^seven years. He is survived by his widow, LUCY S. MASON.
Brother MASON was a
man of sterling worth, and of unusual attainment. He was initiated in Tyrian Lodge No. 246, at Garden City, Kansas, November 7, 1890, served as Master 1894-1898, and finally attained the purple, rising to the rank of Grand Master, in 1908. He was kind, and unassuming, modest in the extreme, arid gave of his talents as well as his purse, and
150
.
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
none were turned empty away. Funeral services were held at the Episcopal Church, Topeka, in the afternoon of May 6th, and the remains escorted to Mount Hope Cemetery by the Grand Lodge, where the beautiful burial service was conducted by the Grand Master, and laid to rest in the new Mausoleum just completed. The passing of Brother MASON is mourned by all who knew him. CHARLES J WEBB.
Another distinguished craftsman was called from the terrestrial to the Celestial Lodge, January 3, 1928, when our Most Worshipful Brother, CHARLES J W E B B , passed to his reward. He was a native Kansan, born at Nortonville, July 7, 1863, and was the last member of his family, his brother and sister having preceded him some time previous. He was never married, and his nearest surviving relative is a nephew, CHARLES W . WEBB, of Colorado, a son of his brother. For a number of years our distinguished brother was connected with the Santa Fe in the city of Topeka, but severed that connection about twenty-five years ago, and moved to Chicago, where he assumed a responsible position with President E. P. RIPLEY, but later became interested in other business and at the time of his death was "Vice President of the International Seal and Lock Company. At the time of his death Brother W E B B was on board the Ship Sierra, bound for Honolulu. He had been in failing health, and was going to Honolulu for the purpose of spending the Winter, in the hope that his physical condition would be improved. The immediate cause of his death was asthma, which seized him during a violent storm, and which together with kidney and heart trouble, caused his death. The brethren of Hawaiian Lodge No. 21, under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of California, took charge of the remains, and conducted the usual Masonic services. Interment was made at Nortonville, near his old home, where he sleeps the sleep that knows no waking. During the past year twenty-seven other Grand Jurisdictions have been visited by the sickle keen, extending from Delaware on the Atlantic to Oregon, Washington, in the northwest, and including Texas on the Gulf of Mexico, and Grand Masters, Past Grand Masters, Grand Wardens, and various other Grand Officers have been called indiscriminately. They represented every walk of life, and some of them in the very prime and blossom of their young manhood, and at the high noon of life, while still others were passing down the western slope, and passed out and through the golden gate, entered upon that sleep that continues until the heavens shall be no more. They are not dead, but sleeping, and their memory will be forever cherished in the hearts of the brethren with whom they labored, bearing the lamps of light and learning unto the unenlightened resources of men's souls and brightening the sunless caverns of their lives, without which happiness and con- . tentment would be a vain and idle dream. The lives of every one of
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
151
these distinguished and faithful brethren have shed luster upon the institution and the world is better on account of their having passed this way. ALEXANDER MONROE DOCKERY.
He was born in Davies County, Missouri, February 11, 1845, and died in the city of Gallatin, Missouri, December 26, 1926, at the age of eighty-one years. Brother DOCKERY was eminent in more ways than one. He was a skillful and accomplished physician; served his state in the National House of Representatives for a number of years; was Governor of Missouri, and served the administration of President WILSON as Third Assistant Postmaster General. He was active in civic and political life, and was regarded as one of the keenest business men of his day. He entered the Fraternity in 1866, and was elected Grand Master in 1881. His life may be likened unto the path of the just, which lighteth more and more unto the perfect day. GEORGE MAYHBW MOULTON.
Of the Grand Lodge Lodge of Illinois, passed to his reward on July 24,. 1927, having lived out the three score and ten allotted to mortals, and six years grace. He served as Grand Master of the state of Illinois for the years 1901 and 1902, and as a Past Grand Master took an active part in the Grand Lodge, served on the Committee on Jurisprudence a number of years, and at the time of his death was chairman of the Committee on Legislation. For many years Brother MOULTON was Grand Representative of our Grand Lodge and a more faithful Grand Representative was never appointed in any jurisdiction. He took great interest as the Representative of Kansas, and in each year following their Annual Communication always submitted a complete report, and furnished a copy of the advance printed reports of the Grand Officers. In his passing Kansas loses an able and conscientious Representative, and many of the older members of the Craft feel a deep personal bereavement in his passing. EDWARD D. VANDEBUETH.
Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge, A. P. & A. M., of Nevada, and Grand Chapter, R. A. M.^ of Nevada. Brother VANDERLIETH answered the final call December 18, 1926. He came with his parents to Nevada in 1872, and settled at Eureka. He was educated in the public schools of Nevada, and became editor of the Eureka Leader. He was admitted to the Bar, and became District Attorney of Eureka County, and later removed to Carson City, where he became Registrar of Deposits in the United States Mint. He was Secretary to Governor CoLCORD of Nevada, and occupied the position for four years, later becoming Deputy State Treasurer, and later on Referee in Bankruptcy. In 1910 he was exalted to the important station of Grand Secretary of
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the Grand Lodge of Nevada, which honored position he filled until his death. In 1912 he became Grand Secretary of Royal Arch Masons for the same jurisdiction, and remained in both positions until he was called to the Great Beyond. His funeral obsequies were conducted by the Grand Lodge of Nevada, and his remains reduced to ashes, and deposited in the Oakland Cemetery, at Oakland, California. WILLIAM BROMWELL MBLISH.
WILLIAM BROMWELL MBLISH, Past Grand Master of the Grand
Lodge, Free and Accepted Masons of Ohio, was born July 28, 1852, and passed to his final reward, October 22, 1927. JAMES FULLERTON ROBINSON.
Grand Master, A. F. & A. M., of the state of Oregon, 1890-1891, Grand High Priest, R. A. M., 1882-1883, Grand Commander, K. T., 1887-1888. He was born in Henry County, Iowa, December 2, 1846, moved to Oregon in 1872, settling in Eugene, Lane County, where he occupied a leading position among the business msn of that city. He later moved to Portland, which was his home at the time of his death. His is a story of lifelong devotion and service to the works, principles, and ideals of the Fraternity, faithful to the end. Even in his twilight days, when the infirmities of age precluded more active work, he con'tinued to serve the Fraternity as Grand Secretary. His Masonic record affords an example that is worthy of emulation. He passed to his reward December 2, 1926, his eightieth birthday, and was buried December 4th, at Portland, the Grand Lodge of the state of Oregon conducting the last rites at the Scottish Rite Cathedral. The officers of the Grand Chapter and the Grand Commandery of Oregon were in attendance, as were other friends and officers of the various other Masonic bodies with whom he had been associated for years. He was escorted to his last resting place by Oregon Commandery No. 1, K. T., of which he was the first Eminent Commander. GEORGE BOAL ORLADY.
Past Grand Master of Masons of the state of Pennsylvania, passed from labor to refreshment on the 9th day of September, 1926. He was one of the outstanding figures in the affairs in his state, and of his Grand Lodge; he was one of the Justices of the Superior Court of the state of Pennsylvania, and made a record that has been equaled by but few, and had the esteem and admiration of all with whom he came in contact as a Judge and-as a wise counselor. He was a Mason for more than fifty years, and in recognition of his unusual ability he became Worshipful Master of his lodge in the fourth year of his membership. At the close of his administration as Grand Master he became a member of the Committee on Masonic Homes, and continued in active service in its work until his death. His going was peaceful, and without
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pain. On the night of September 9, 1926, after a day of association of family and friends at his home in Huntington, he retired to his couch, and fell into a peaceful slumber, which for him proved to be the sleep that men call death. His record would not be complete, without some reference to the distinguished service rendered to his state. His first public service was as a District Attorney of his native county, and it may be truly said of him that as an attorney he had no specialty, but he filled the full measure of a great lawyer, in all the courts. Upon the creation of the Superior Court of the state of Pennsylvania, in 1895, Brother ORLADY was appointed one of the seven Judges, and was elected in the Fall of 1895, re-elected in 1905, and in 1915 to the respective ten years required by law. Throughout his career as a Judge, he possessed and exercised in a marked degree the quahfications which SOCRATES said should belong to a Judge: " T o hear courteously; to answer wisely; to consider soberly; and to decide impartially." Many of the brethren of this jurisdiction enjoyed a personal acquaintance with Judge OELADY, and his passing is looked upon as a personal bereavement. Hjs life was an inspiration to all with whom he came in contact, and his like will not again soon pass this way. Fraternally submitted, FRANCIS M . PEARL,
Committee.
CALL FROM LABOR TO REFRESHMENT. The Grand Master called the M.-.W.-. Grand Lodge from labor to refreshment until 1:30 P. M.
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AFTERNOON SESSION. WEDNESDAY,
February 22, 1928.
The Grand Master called the M.-.W.-. Grand Lodge from refreshment to labor at 1:30 P. M. R E P O R T OF SPECIAL C O M M I T T E E ON REVISION OF LAWS.
R.-. W:-. ALBERT K . WILSON, chairman, submitted the following report, each proposed amendment to the Constitution receiving the constitutional two-thirds vote and the report was then adopted as a whole by more than a two-thirds vote: To The M:. W:. Grand Lodge of A. ,F. & A. M. of Kansas: Your committee, to whom was assigned the duty of preparing a revision of our laws, herewith submit the following report: . On a careful examination of the present edition of our laws adopted in 1913, and all amendments and additions thereto, it was found that many of our By-Laws are not supported by the Constitution of this Grand Lodge. It should be borne in mind that but three amendments have been made to our present Constitution since its adoption in 1885—one in 1893 providing for the Masonic Home; one in 1907 consolidating committees; and one in 1908 abolishing the Board of Custodians,—and in order to take care of the changed conditions, and that all laws may be based on proper authority it has been found necessary to suggest a few amendments to the Constitution. We assume the authority under which this committee was created through the recommendation of the Grand Secretary one year ago contemplated a revision of our laws to the extent of recommending, if necessary, constitutional amendments, and your committee, therefore, have prepared several amendments to the Constitution, leaving the By-Laws to be presented at the next Annual Communication, as definite action on the proposed amendments to the Constitution cannot be had until one year hence. Your committee can then present the revision of the By-Laws, making them conform to the Constitution as amended. I t is proposed to amend Section 4 of Article I by eliminating representatives by proxy of the Master and Wardens, unless the proxy be held by one of the three principal officers.
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The time has long since passed when the necessary representation in the Grand Lodge requires proxies other than those held by the three principal officers; in other words, if one of the Wardens cannot be present he may be represented by proxy by either the Master or the other Warden. This suggested change is also based on the Regulations of 1721 in which it is specifically provided that every lodge shall have the privilege of giving instructions to their Master and Wardens before the assembling of Grand Lodge as the Master and Wardens are their representatives. The right of Wardens to represent their lodge in Grand Lodge is a prerogative and in 1717 the Body of Masonry surrendered their prerogatives which belonged to every Mason of being represented at the Grand Lodge in the assurance that their rights and privileges would be safely secured by the presence of the Master and Wardens. The present Section reads as follows: SEC. 4. Members.—The members of the Grand Lodge shall consist of: First, The Past Masters, Masters and Wardens of the Lodges; Second, The Past and Present Elective, and Present Subordinate Grand Officers; Third, The representatives by proxy of the Masters and Wardens of Lodges, who only may be so represented. When amended it will read as follows: SEC. 4. Members —The members of the Grand Lodge shall consist of: First, The Past Masters, Masters and Wardens of the Lodges; Second, The Past and Present Elective, and Present Subordinate Grand Officers; Third, The representatives by proxy of the Masters and Wardens of Lodges; such proxy, however, to be only one of the three principal officers, who only may be so represented. It is proposed to amend Section 7 of Article I, eliminating therefrom the words "except, if the Grand Master shall abuse his powers, or commit any offense against the Body of Masonry, he shall be subject to a new Regulation, to be dictated by the occasion." The Section when amended will read as follows: SEC. 7. Retroactive Laws.—In the exercise of its powers, the Grand Lodge shall never apply to any case any Law or Regulation not exisiting at the time the cause of action arose. In the opinion of your committee the interpretation of this Section of the law by Past Grand Master BASSETT, contained in the following note, justifies this recommendation: Kx Post Facto.—Ex post facto laws have ever been unjust and oppressive; they are repugnant to the spirit of Masonry, therefore it is here declared that no law or regulation shall be made retroactive.—BASSETT.
Section 6 of Article III provides as follows: SEC. 6. Grand Secretary.—The Grand Secretary, in addition to the duties which devolve on him by usage, shall make an annual report to the Grand Lodge of the transactions of his office, and render an account of all moneys received, accompanied by the Grand Treasurer's
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receipts therefor. He shall transmit to his successor all the records, books and papers belonging to his office, and execute to the Council of Administration such bond for the faithful discharge of his duties as may be by law required. As no provision is made in this Section of the Constitution authorizing the Grand Secretary to act as Librarian, appoint an Assistant, employ necessary help to carry on the work in his office and the maintenance of the Grand Lodge Building, as well as preparing checks covering mileage and expenses of those entitled to the same at the Annual Communications it should be amended to read as follows: SEC. 6. Grand Secretary.—The Grand Secretary, in addition to the duties which devolve on him by usage, shall act as Librarian and shall make annual reports to the Grand Lodge of the transactions of his offices, rendering an account of all moneys received, accompanied by the Grand Treasurer's receipts therefor, and shall prepare checks covering the mileage and expenses of those entitled to the same, and mileage to the representatives of Lodges and any others as provided by law, and submit them to the Committee on Finance, together with a pay roll setting forth the amount of mileage and allowances. He shall transmit to his successor all the records, books and papers belonging to his office, and execute to the Council of Administration such bond for the faithful discharge of his duties as may be by law required. He shall appoint an Assistant, and employ such other help as may be necessary and expedient in properly conducting t h e affairs of his offices, and in the maintenance of the Grand Lodge Building. In order to provide Constitutional authority for the appointment of several new committees to properly conduct the affairs of the Grand Lodge, Section 5 of Article IV should be amended. What is known as Commissioners of Trials should be designated, under authority of the Constitution, as a Committee on Trials and Punishments, consisting of five members. In our list of committees we should have one to whom could be referred certain subjects which do not, under our present law, come within the jurisdiction of any Standing Committee, and we recommend that one be created to be known as Committee on General Purposes, consisting of three members. The Grand Lodge now possesses a fire-proof building in which is located all the records and other valuable property, all of which should be carefully checked and examined each year and a formal report submitted to Grand Lodge. Your committee would therefore recommend that a new committee be created, to be designated as Committee on Investigation of Records and Property, consisting of three members. This subject should receive the careful attention of the Grand Lodge and a By-Law should be created specifically setting forth, in detail, the duties to be perforihed by this committee, and the character of the report to be made annually. The present Section reads as follows: SEC. 5. Standing Committees.—The Standing Committees of the Grand Lodge shall consist of the following members, to be appointed by the Grand Master at the close of each Annual Communication, and shall continue for one year, subject to such changes in membership as
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the Grand Master from time to time may deem expedient, and be designated as follows: (1) On Credentials; (2) On Reports of Grand Officers; (3) On Finance and Property; (4) On Jurisprudence, consisting of five members each; (5) On Chartered Lodges and Lodges Under Dispensation, consisting of three members; (6) On Correspondence, and (7) On Necrology, consisting of one member each. . We recommend that it be amended to read as follows: SEC. 5. Standing Committees.—The Standing Committees of the Grand Lodge shall consist of the following members, to be appointed by the Grand Master at the close of each Annual Communication, and shall continue for one year, subject to such changes in membership as the Grand Master from time to time may deem expedient, and be designated as follows: (1) On Credentials; (2) On Reports of Grand Officers; (3) On Finance; (4) On Jurisprudence; (5) On Trials and Punishments, consisting of five members each; (6) On Chartered Lodges and Lodges Under Dispensation; (7) On General Purposes; (8) On Investigation of Records and Property, consisting of three rnembers each; (9) On Correspondence, and (10) On Necrology, consisting of one member each. Since the adoption of Section 3 of Article V concerning certain requirements preliminary to the issuance of Letters of Dispensation conditions have materially changed. This Section now reads as follows: SEC. 3. Lodges U.". D.'.—Recommendation.—Before the petition mentioned in the preceding section shall be presented to the Grand Master, it must be recommended by the Lodge nearest to the place where the proposed new Lodge is to be located, and in such recommendation it must be expressly stated: First, That the petitioners are Master Masons in good standing; Second, That they have provided a suitable place in which to hold their meetings; Third, That the Master and Wardens nominated in the petition have satisfactorily exhibited their skill by an exemplification of the Work of Ancient Cr.aft Masonry. I t will be noted that the Lodge or Lodges nearest the location of the proposed new Lodge must recommend the petitioners; have knowledge that the petitioners are Master Masons in good standing; that they have provided a suitable place in which to hold their meetings; that the Master and Wardens have exhibited their skill by an exemplification of the Work. At the time of the adoption of this Section of the Constitution forty-three years ago such requirements were indispensable; however, the increase in population in our state and the added number of Lodges made it necessary for the Grand Master to give this subject closer supervision, and the responsibility was therefore transferred to him. For a number of years past our Grand Masters, before issuing Letters of Dispensation, have first required complete information as to the character of the building in which the proposed Lodge was to be held; whether it was suitably furnished for doing Masonic work in a proper and dignified manner; the number of brethren who were to take part in the organization, as well as the record of their membership, and a cei-tificate from one of the Lecturers that the officers of the proposed Lodge had been instructed and were thoroughly
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qualified to confer all three degrees and deliver the Lectures pertaining thereto. No doubt these requirements will continue indefinitely and it leaves only the question of the consent of the nearest Lodge or Lodges to complete the preliminary requirements before the issuance of Letters of Dispensation, Your committee, therefore; have amended Section 3 of Article V to read as follows: SEC. 3. Lodges U. •. D. -.—CONSENT.—Before the petition mentioned in the preceding section shall be presented to the Grand Master, it must contain the consent of the Lodge nearest to the place where the proposed new Lodge is to be located. Section 6 of Article V now reads as follows: SEC. 6. Officers of a Lodge.—^The Officers of a Lodge shall be: (1) Master; (2) Senior Warden; (3) Junior Warden; (4) Treasurer; (5) Secretary; (6) Senior Deacon; (7) Junior Deacon; (8) Senior Steward; (9) Junior Steward; (10) Tyler. The first five Officers in the order named shall be chosen annually by ballot, at the stated communication next preceding St. John's Day, in December, and installed on or before that day, and shall hold their offices until their successors are installed: Provided, No one shall be eligible to the office of Master until he has been installed and served as Warden. All other officers shall be appointed by the Master immediately after his installation, and shall hold their offices during his pleasure. In the judgment of your committee the law as it now stands should be amended so as to relieve many of our Lodges from holding their Annual Communications and election of officers either on or very close to Christmas day. Each year many Lodges apply to the Grand Master for a special dispensation to hold their annual election at some other time than that provided by the present law on account of its proximity to Christmas. Your committee, therefore, recommend that Section 6 of Article V be amended to read as follows: SEC. 6. Officers of a Lodge.—The Officers of a Lodge shall be: (1) Master; (2) Senior Warden; (3) Junior Warden; (4) Treasurer; (5) Secretary; (6) Senior Deacon; (7) Junior Deacon; (8) Senior Steward; (9) Junior Steward; (10) Tyler. The first five officers in the order named shall be chosen annually by ballot, at the stated communication on or next preceding December 15th and installed on or before St. John's Day, in December, and shall hold their offices until their successors are installed: Provided, No one shall be eligible to the office of Master until he has been installed and served as Warden in this Grand Jurisdiction. All other officers shall be appointed by the Master immediately after his installation, and shall hold their offices during his pleasure. Section 3 of Article VI reads as follows: SEC. 3. Removal of Candidate.—If after a Lodge has accepted a candidate and before any Degree has been conferred on him, or after he has received only one or two Degrees, he shall become a sojourner, or an actual resident within the territorial jurisdiction of another Lodge, the latter may receive such candidate's petition for advancement to all.
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or to such Degree as he may not have previously received: Provided, Such petition shall be accompanied by a request from the former Lodge for the completion of the work: And -provided further, That the Lodge completing the work shall do the same according to the regulations of this Grand Jurisdiction, and as an act of courtesy. The tendency of Lodges to request other Lodges to confer one or more of the degrees on an elected candidate has been growing to such an extent of late years that many Grand Lodges have enacted laws or regulations forbidding their Lodges to confer the first degree as an act of courtesy. Such a law or regulation is certainly in keeping with the dignity and high standing of our time honored Institution, and as our Grand Lodge has always been foremost in such matters it is high time we should adopt a regulation requiring the conferral of the first degree in the Lodge in which the candidate is elected. In Masonry haste is indeed waste, and no condition can be imagined which would justify it in requesting another Lodge to confer the first degree as an act of courtesy. Our regulations now specifically provide t h a t if the candidate permanently moves out of the jurisdiction while the petition is pending the Lodge loses jurisdiction and his petition must be returned. If the candidate contemplates moving out of the jurisdiction immediately or soon after the date when his petition is due for action the Lodge should arrange to confer the first degree as soon as he has been elected. Your committee would therefore recommend that this section be amended to read as follows: SEC. 3. Removal of Candidate.—If after a Lodge has accepted a candidate and conferred upon him at least one Degree, and before the other Degree or Degrees have been conferred he shall become a sojourner, or an actual resident within the territorial jurisdiction of another Lodge, the latter may receive such candidate's petition for advancement to such Degree or Degrees as he may not have previously received: Provided, Such petition shall be accompanied by a request or waiver from the former Lodge for the completion of the work: And provided further, That the Lodge completing the work shall do the same according to the laws and regulations of this Grand Jurisdiction, and if upon request it shall be done as an act of courtesy. Section 5 of Article VI reads as follows: SEC. 5. Membership and Dimission.—A Lodge may receive the.petition of an applicant for membership from any Master Mason in good standing, who shall produce satisfactory evidence that he has been regularly dimitted from the Lodge with which he was last affiliated, or that such Lodge has surrendered its Warrant, without regard to his place or the period of his residence, whether it is within or without the limits of this Grand Jurisdiction. Any member of a Lodge, not at the time holding any elective office therein, against whom no charges are pending and who is not under any pecuniary liabilities to his Lodge, shall be entitled to dimission upon making application therefor at a Stated Communication, if a majority of all the members present shall sustain such application.
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Your committee suggests only a slight change in form so as to include authority for the issuance of Certificates for Transfer of Membership. We therefore recommend that this section be changed to read as follows: SEC. 5. Membership and Dimission.—A Lodge may receive the petition of an applicant for membership from any Master Mason in good standing, who shall produce satisfactory evidence that he has been regularly dimitted from the Lodge with which he was last affiliated, or that such Lodge has surrendered its Warrant, without regard to his place or the period of his residence, whether it is within or without the limits of this Grand Jurisdiction, or when such petition is accompanied by a Certificate of Transfer issued by a Lodge in this Grand Jurisdiction. Any member of a Lodge, not at the time holding any elective office therein, against whom no charges are pending and who is not under any pecuniary liabilities to his Lodge, shall be entitled to a dimit or Certificate of Transfer upon making application therefor at a Stated Communication, if a majority of all the members present shall sustain such application. Your committee have endeavored to set forth, in a concise manner, the necessity for the proposed changes in the several sections of the Constitution and therefore present them for consideration. Fraternally submitted, ALBERT K . WILSON, ELRICK C . COLE,
Committee. ORATION.
The M.-. W.-. Grand Master introduced Brother LARKIN B. BOWERS, President, Kansas Wesleyan University, of Sahna, and a member of Salem Lodge No. 84, Salem, West Virginia, who delivered the following oration, which, on motion of R.-.W.-. GEORGE F . BEEZLBY, was ordered printed in the Annual Proceedings: THE
PERMANENCE OF MASONRY.
Most Worshipful Grand Master and Brethren: In view of the unrest in almost every phase of the organized social life of fhe day, the almost universal prevalence of the social iconoclast and the destructive influences of present-day criticism, which threaten the most sacred of our institutions including the church and the home, I have felt that it would be well for us as Masons to
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look once more to the foundations of our beloved Order. Are we erecting these temples of marble and of brotherhood only to abandon them again as fruitless institutions which simply encumber the social ground? And why should Masonry expect to continue to engage the time and energies of its constituents unless it can prove its worthiness. Masonry as every other institution can live only as it proves its right to live. The permanency of any institution in human society depends upon at least two things, the first of which is its ability to withstand the changes of time and circumstance. This may be done either by adjustment to or by defiance of the changes of time. The second prerequisite of permanency is that of service. No institution can meet the demands of social progress and long remain a part of the social fabric which does not render a definite service to society. A careful study of the history and workings of Masonry shows that it meets all of these conditions of permanency. Its long and notable history is ample evidence of both its ability to meet the changes of time and of the worthy service it has rendered to humanity. However, we are not wanting to preserve Masonry simply for what it has done; and if Masonry is now existing upon the momentum of its past, it must, sooner or later, naturally surrender its place of preeminence as a social institution. It may be well then, as I have suggested, to study the philosophical tenets and practical workings of our Order to see what assurance we may find there of its permanency, or the reasons if any for striving to maintain its existence in the future. In the first place I believe Masonry defies the destructive changes of time and is guaranteed a permanent place in human life because the tenets of its philosophical creed in interpreting life satisfy certain fundamental hungers of the human soul which do not change with the passing years. The first of these fundamental human hungers is the desire for the knowledge of and coiripanionship with the In-
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finite. There is no phase of the teachings of Masonry more stressed than that of its belief in GOD. The first qualification of a Mason is that he believe in the Creator of the universe as the author and ruler of all life. This desire for the Infinite is one of the universal hungers of the race. All men everywhere have-always believed in GOD and have been striving for a greater knowledge of him. Belief in GOD is necessary to satisfy the demands of human intellect and reason. There can be no scientific or rational interpretation of the universe without the acceptance of some sort of ultimate Being or Force which serves as an ultimate cause of all being and as a directing and guiding force in an orderly universe. The soul of man in its desire for consolation and comfort also demands the Infinite in sustaining power and fellowship. After all, our hold upon the Infinite is not through our . powers of reason but through the demands of instinct. We cannot do without GOD. We cannot escape Him. One is constrained to say with the Psalmist: "If I ascend into heaven Thou art there, if I make my bed in hell Thou art there. If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there shall Thy hand lead me and Thy right hand shall hold me." The whole universe joins in praise of Him who is Infinite in wisdom, who reigns over all, undivided and supreme,-—the fountain of all life, the source of all light from whom all blessings flow and in whom all happiness centers. VOLTAIRE once said, "If GOD didn't exist it would be necessary to invent him." Human reason demands Him, all creation sets forth His glory and the heart of mankind refuses to be comforted without Him. The second great hunger of the human soul is the hunger of conscience. All the dissipation and crime which blacken the pages of history do not disprove the assumption that in every soul there exists the fundamental desire for that which is best in life—the hunger for the good. Masonry strives to satisfy this hunger by teaching the supremacy of the moral law. This law written first upon
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tables of stone and then upon the hearts of men becomes the foundation stone of, all that is righteous and best in life. Not that the good is achieved through mere formal obedience to law but that the universe is an orderly universe and law and order are supreme. Law is supreme in the moral or spiritual world as it is in the material universe. Nor does law take away one's liberty or become a hard task master. Law is man's best friend so long as man obeys law. We are free so far as the law is concerned, that is not compelled by the law, but our freedom does not abrogate the law. Because one may choose to take the life of his fellow-man does not make it right to kill. And when GOD utters through his prophets those great fundamental laws of the moral code he is directing the way of conscience and formally setting forth the way of life. Law lights the way for conscience. PAUL, the great Hebrew interpreter of CHRIST to the Gentiles said, "The law is the schoolmaster to bring me to CHRIST." And the Master Teacher himself said he had not come " T o destroy one jot or tittle of the law until all be fulfilled"—fulfilled through obedience to conscience enlightened by law. Every question of life is ultimately brought before this judgment-bar of the soul; and the soul deaf to its appeal must ultimately pay the penalty. Obedience is life; disobedience is death. And when Masonry declares its belief in the supremacy of the moral law, it is helping to light the way of the soul to that which is highest and best in life. The hunger for the highest good in life can be satisfied only through obedience to conscience guided by law. The third primal hunger of the human soul which the teachings of Masonry strive to satisfy is the desire for immortality. This is also another of the universal spiritual hungers of the race. Nothing is more striking in the history of primitive races than the evidences of their belief in immortality, and the burden of the ritualism of the modern church as well as one of the chief concerns of modern theology is that of the question of immortality. We really know but little if anything about immortality yet we believe in it. We can't scientifically prove it;
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neither can it be disproved, and without doubt there is more evidence in nature for it than there is against it. Certainly human reason and our instinctive sense of justice demand it. If the grave ends all for two individuals whose lives are as diametrically opposite in motive and conduct as those of NBRO and PAUL, then the universe is evidently unjust; and, if there is not somehow, somewhere, an opportunity to adjust the inequalities of this temporal life and to realize the hopes, aspirations and ambitions of the soul of man which seemingly does nothing more here than to bud in promise of full fruition at last, then the Creator of the universe has played a trick upon man and life in this world is little more than a farce if not a tragedy. None of us, however, accept such a purely materialistic view of life. We live for immortality. It is the chief instinctive hunger of life, and the hunger of the soul for immortality is the greatest evidence of the capacity of the soul for it, as the hunger of the body for food is the greatest evidence of the capacity and the need of the body for material sustenance. And as material foods satisfy physical hunger and build up the broken and worn tissues of the physical body, so'man's hope of immortality is his chief source of strength and inspiration in face of the harrowing experiences and seemingly fruitless struggles of this present life. We find then that the philosophical teachings of speculative Masonry while not peculiar to Masonry, nevertheless, satisfy certain fundamental hungers of the human soul; and so long as man seeks the infinite, so long as he strives for the good and so long as he hopes for immortality, so long will Masonry, as all other institutions which in any way satisfy these cravings, have a place in human life. The permanence of Masonry is further assured by the fact that it promotes those ideals of individual and social welfare upon which alone a permanent human society can be builded. The first essential of a permanent and lasting society is a free and intelligent citizenship. Freedom of life and
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expression with equality of opportunity are necessary to the highest degree of personal integrity. " T o have freedom is only to have that which is absolutely necessary to enable us to be what we ought to be," said RAHEL. The individual can come to his best only as he can exercise fully and freely the powers of personal initiative and personal choice. Autocracy either political or industrial not only thwarts the development of the individual but prevents him from making his best contribution to society. The individual is the unit of society and the welfare of society depends upon the welfare of the individual. The slave makes only a mechanical contribution to industry, a contribution which might be made by a machine adjusted to the same task, and the slave therefore makes no permanent contribution to social progress. Permanent progress in human society can be made only through the exercise of the fullest degree of individual initiative and freedom of pursuit. Masonry has always been opposed to autocracy of any sort whether of church or of state. Freedom of religion, freedom of expression and freedom of person under guidance of law are fundamental to social welfare and progress. The free citizen must also be an intelligent citizen. Therefore, Masonry has always promoted education. The philosophy and working ritual of Masonry are built about the assumption that man has been endowed by the Great Creator with latent, powers of perception and intellectual mastery superior to those of the rest of the animal kingdom. The first step in Masonry is a step toward the light. The apprentice enters seeking light and his brothers who have gone before him serve as torch bearers on his way. To throw more light on the way of the weary and benighted traveler is the primary function of Masonry. Masonry not only promotes enlightenment within the walls of her own temples but strives also to promote education throughout the commonwealth. Enlightenment is conceived by Masonry not only as essential in protecting the individual from danger but - also in preparing him for the responsibilities in society. From the time of SOCRATES it has"
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been recognized that a permanent democratic state can be built only upon intelligent citizenship. Education has ever been considered the safeguard of democracy. Masonry believes not only in education for democracy but also in democracy in education. If all are to exercise like responsibilities in citizenship all must enjoy equal opportunities to prepare for citizenship. All may not have the same capacity for learning but there can be no true democracy without equality of opportunity in educational advantages. That equality of opportunity upon which alone a democratic state can be builded can be maintained only by giving to each individual equal opportunity to develop every faculty of personality to its highest capacity. But significant as they are, liberty and light are not the last words in Masonry. The great word of Masonry is Brotherhood. And Ex-Chancellor STRONG of the University of Kansas once said that if Masonry had done nothing more than promote the idea of brotherhood, it would have justified its existence. The outstanding obligations of a Mason are to respect the rights of and render service to his brothers in Masonry. It is not enough that a member of society be intelligent and free. In fact, a high degree of intelligence with a like degree of freedom may only serve to make a bad citizen the more dangerous unless the powers thus loosened and set free be guided by the highest ideals of mutual good-will and universal welfare. Man's first and primary problem is that of learning to live with his fellowmen. In so doing his first lesson is.the realization that his brother is entitled to exactly the same rights and privileges as he claims for himself. Much of the cry for what is called "personal liberty" and "freedom of speech" is meaningless and unethical. There is no such thing as freedom to violate a law simply because we dislike that law. The law is the expressed will of society made to protect the mutual rights of its members. In the exercise of one's liberty one must not forget the fact that every other individual is entitled to exactly the same right of expression. Liberty is not to be interpreted as license to follow one's
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impulses regardless of the welfare of others. "There are two freedoms," said KINGSLEY, " t h e false, where man is left free to do as he likes; the true, where a man is free to do what he ought." Freedom, rightly defined, is the privilege society grants the individual to develop his powers to their highest capacity in order that the individual may thereby render, in turn, the largest service to society. When the state or society through public education gives the individual the opportunity for the development of his personal faculties it is not that he may become the more proficient in exploiting his fellows but that he may become the more efficient in serving his fellowmen. One's talent must not be considered simply as the means of one's personal advancement regardless of the welfare of others. One must use his talent in the service of others. A permanent brotherhood of man such as Masonry is striving for can be builded only upon the spirit of sacrificial service. The sacrificial spirit of JESUS of Nazareth revealing the infinite love of GOD must become the basis of human brotherhood. There can be no universal and permanent brotherhood of man apart from the universal Fatherhood of GOD. GOD'S loving and impartial interest in and care for all men regardless of race, color or cast, as the Father of all mankind, must become the foundation of universal brotherhood. After all, love and not struggle is the law of human life. Struggle has its place in the maintenance of individual existence, but progress in human society toward the higher plains of civilized life is by the law of love. Sacrifice and not self-assertion must be-reckoned as the way of human progress. Indeed, sacrifice may be considered the law of all progress from the lower to the higher forms of existence. The dewdrop sacrifices itself to the sunbeam, and through the sacrifice of many dewdrops the mighty sea is produced. The sea in turn gives of itself in vapor which through the course of showers and the refreshing rivers empties itself into the sea again preventing stagnation and death. Thus the sea through giving of itself preserves its own existence.
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In like manner all life enters into a fuller and completer existence through sacrificial love by becoming a part of the larger life. Life begets life, and the more of life the individual contributes to the common life the more of life the individual enjoys. Human society progresses by the same law of loving sacrifice toward its ultimate objective of a Kingdom of the Brotherhood of Man not by the process of eliminating the weak through strife but that form of struggle by which the life of the higher is sacrificed in uplifting the lower. And if inhuman warfare and destructive competition are ever to be done away and peace is to reign supreme throughout the world it will not be by trying to cover up the blemishes of human society by painting the world red with human blood but by bleaching the soul of the world white through the penetrating rays of Infinite Love. Brethren, while Masonry may not be unique in setting forth and promoting these great tenets of human life and welfare, nevertheless we believe we have thus far been describing those fundamental principles upon which a permanent society of human creatures can be builded, and so long as- Masonry continues to stress these fundamental principles of life in its teachings and practices, so long shall Masonry have a permanent place in the life of humankind. Time does not change the fundamental principles and laws of life. The processes and manifestations of life may change, but the laws of life do not change. Let Masonry be concerned with principles and not processes. Let Masonry avoid in the future as she has in the past all partisan and temporal entanglements and continue to place emphasis upon these unchanging laws of human progress and Masonry shall continue to be a permanent institution in human life. As Masons then interested as we are in the future of our Order let us continue to promote the great spiritual values of freedom, justice and loving goodwill; these do not change. The material values of life waste with the using, the spiritual values increase by use.
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Material wealth may take wings and fly away; spiritual riches abide. The contributions of any life to the spiritual welfare of humankind never perish. The body of MosES, stalwart and strong, enduring the hardships of more than the usual span of life, finally yielded to the call of time and his bones were left to decay in an unknown grave on Nebo's mount, but the wisdom of this prophet of righteousness which has become the basis of the world's prejudices, will never perish from the earth. The body of MARTIN LUTHER has mouldered for generations in the tomb at Wittenburg but the soul of LUTHER goes marching on in the majestic strides of the Protestant reformation. The body of WASHINGTON whose memory we revere today, has long since crumbled to dust in the tomb yonder at Mount Vernon, but the liberty loving spirit of this father of democracy lives on in the hearts and lives of all patriotic American citizens. The material contributions made by an institution or civilization to universal progress decay; the spiritual contributions of a civilization remain. The temples of the Nile lie buried beneath the sands of time but the contributions of the Egyptian artisan to science and learning became the foundation stones of future civilizations. Greek Temples of learning have long since crumbled to dust but the Greek teacher will ever be considered the father of philosophy for his contribution to the hunger of the soul for wisdom and truth. The Hebrew left few monuments of his material prosperity but this "chosen people of G O D " shall never perish from the earth because of the rich spiritual heritage he left the world in his interpretation and revelation of the spiritual and eternal values of life. Brethren, these temples of marble we rear today may in time become buried beneath the debris of the ages only to be unearthed by the future archaeologist as interesting relics of a decadent materialistic civilization; but the contributions of our beloved Order to liberty, truth, justice and brotherly love will endure so long as time shall last.
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REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON CHARTERED LODGES AND LODGES U. D.. W.-. ELLSWORTH B . SEWELL, J R . , chairman, presented the following report, which, on his motion, was adopted: To The M:. W:. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: Last year your committee reported a noticeable improvement in the general character of work passing from the subordinate lodges to the Grand Secretary. The year just closed, we regret to state, is not so satisfactory, and it is plainly evident that a great many of our Secretaries are either extremely careless or woefully incompetent. More care should be exercised in filling this important office in the lodge, and a member should have certain qualifications before he is permitted to take charge of the lodge records. Every lodge surely has among its members someone who has had some clerical experience, and, with the help available from the'District Deputy Grand Masters, together with clear instructions issued by the Grand Secretary's office, such a Secretary should be able to submit his annual reports practically free from errors. In a few instances the correspondence shows a lack of even common courtesy on the part of the Secretary. Ignorance can, in a measure, be excused, but discourtesy cannot be countenanced, and unless you as members of your various lodges take steps to correct this evil some charters will surely be arrested. The Grand Secretary's office is burdened with work, and every officer should do all in his power to help eliminate that large amount of unnecessary effort that is expended each year because of inexcusable errors. MANNER OP PAYING OUT LODGE FUNDS.
It is evident that our lodges are paying little attention to our laws on this subject. We hardly see how the present law can be improved, but possibly it will be necessary to apply a penalty for violation, and we therefore recommend that this matter be referred to the committee which is now revising our laws. LODGE ANNUAL REPORTS.
The customary list of errors in annual reports is as follows: Differences in names and initials: Nos. 2, 3, 5, 8,10, 12, 16, 19, 20, 21, 25, 28, 29, 30, 33, 36, 38, 39, 41, 44, 46, 49, 51, 54, 56, 62, 64, 66, 67, 68, 70, 74, 76, 77, 79, 80, 82, 83, 89, 95, 103, 106, 110, 111, 112, 113, 116, 118, 119, 120, 122, 126, 129, 130, 132, 135, 136, 138, 140, 141, 142,
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144, 145, 146, 147, 150, 151, 152, 156, 158, 161, 163, 164, 170, 174, 176, 177, 180, 184, 187, 188, 189, 195, 196, 203, 206, 209, 212, 213, 219, 221, 222, 228, 232, 234, 235, 242, 243, 251, 252, 258, 259, 265, 266, 267, 268, 270, 271, 274, 277, 278, 281, 284, 292, 296, 298, 307, 310, 314, 318, 319, 321, 324, 332, 341, 342, 343, 351, 353, 354, 360, 361, 362, 369, 372, 374, 375, 376, 377, 379, 384, 385, 391, 395, 396, 399, 400, 402, 406, 408, 409, 413, 417, 420, 422, 424, 425, 426, 427, 445. Ninety of the above were included in this list last year, and no doubt if they had corrected their 1926 records.in line with the instructions issued from the Grand Secretary's office they would have been able to furnish a correct report. This list furnishes an excellent opportunity for constructive work. We would suggest that the District Deputy Grand Masters compare this report with last year's, and where they find one of their lodges listed in both year's reports that they ascertain the cause and see that the necessary correction is made. Initials or abbreviations used: Nos. 8, 56, 91, 151, 158, 163, 164, 212, 218, 221, 234, 239, 248, 268, 317, 337, 341, 344, 352, 357, 362, 368, 377, 385, 395, 400, 401, 402, 410, 417, 427. Eighteen of the above were in this list last year. Not in alphabetical order on roll: Nos. 28, 44, 106, 163, 399. Lodge No. 28 made the same mistake last year, and we sincerely hope that its Secretary will make an effort to keep his lodge out of this report in the future. Not in alphabetical order under work done: Nos. 30, 176, 252, 266, 361, 413, 424. List of officers incomplete: Nos. 181, 248, 386. Not signed by Secretary: Nos. 22, 96, 193, 210, 218. Fifing space omitted: Nos. 112, 193, 217, 354, 409, 424. Seal used: Nos. 169, 202, 361. SPECIAL MENTION.
No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. parties. No. No.
24 abbreviations. 82 different order than last year. 112 not in same order as last year. 130 not in same order as last year. 142 two colors of ink used. 158 abbreviations and changes in names. 188 interlined names on roll. 192 not in same order as last year. 201 use of ditto marks. 319 not in same order as last year. 341 use of ditto marks—report made out by two different 354 not in same order as last year. 382 cut pages from report.
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We list below several of the worst reports under the heading, Differences in Names and Initials: , Lodge Lodge Lodge • Lodge Lodge Lodge
No. 66—75 errors. No. 74—42 errors. No. 106—42 errors. No. 158—51 errors. No. 353—27 errors. No. 417—26 errors.
On January 11th, it was necessary for the Grand Secretary to telephone or telegraph the following lodges with reference to their annual reports: Pacific Lodge No. 29, Humboldt. Coyville Lodge No. 57, Coyville. Hiattville Lodge No. 216, Hiattville. Parker Lodge No. 341, Parker. Summerfield Lodge No. 354, Summerfield. Fostoria Lodge No. 392, Fostoria. In the case of Fostoria Lodge No. 392, your committee is of the opinion that the situation requires special attention, and recommends that the charter be suspended until such time as the Grand Master will have made a thorough investigation and report at our next Annual Communication as to the advisability of revoking the charter. Pacific Lodge No. 29, Humboldt, was one of the last to submit its report, and when received it was discovered that the Secretary had omitted his own name from the roll of members. This caused a delay of five days. The Secretaries of Chase Lodge No. 247, and Eureka Lodge No. 88, Pleasanton, lost their annual report blanks and other important papers. The records of Maple City Lodge No. 342, of Maple City, appear to be in a deplorable condition, and your committee recommends that the continuing of this lodge be left in the hands of the Grand Master. We are of the opinion that it will be for the best interest of the Fraternity at large to discontinue this organization. Excelsior Lodge No. 115, of Uniontown, through delay, seriously interfered with the closing of the Grand Secretary's books, in fact, were listed as being denied credentials. They later corrected their error, and credentials were issued. In transmitting their Grand Lodge dues, they failed to use the form as prescribed by law. Proper forms were mailed to them January 7th, but instead of promptly filling out and sending them in, they held them until the 19th. Your committee has repeatedly called to your attention the necessity of providing a penalty to cover cases such as this as they cause more trouble than the lodge which fails entirely to send in its Annual Reports or remittances.
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It is the judgment of the committee that our new law which is now in the hands of a Special Committee, should be framed in such a manner that it will absolutely provide the same penalty in cases of this nature as it does for the lodge whose Secretary fails to transmit his Annual Report and pay the Grand Lodge dues and assessments within the time provided by law. It occurs to us that it might be a good • plan to further provide that the forms for annual returns be mailed under registered cover and returned to the Grand Secretary in like manner. ' LODGES DENIED REPRESENTATION.
Your committee regrets the necessity of calling your attention to an increase in the number of lodges this year that are denied representation at this Communication for failure to pay Grand Lodge dues or to send their Annual Reports within the time limit as provided by law. Those neglecting to pay dues are: Nine Mile Lodge No. 49, Lansing. Landmark Lodge No. 218, Mound Valley. Those failing to transmit their Annual Reports within the legal time are: Coyville Lodge No. 57, Coyville. Hiattville Lodge No. 216, Hiattville. Parker Lodge No. 341, Parker. Summerfield Lodge No. 354, Summerfield. Fostoria Lodge No. 392, Fostoria. We again would suggest to our District Deputy Grand Masters the desirability of calling the Secretaries of the various lodges in their district several days before the Annual Reports are due, and reminding them of the consequences if not mailed on time. DATES OF HOLDING ANNUAL ELECTIONS.
The Grand Secretary submits the usual list of lodges that held their elections on a date other than the one authorized by the Constitution of the Grand Lodge. We recommend that in all cases where the elections were held at a time other than specified by law, that proper application be made to the Grand Master for a Special Dispensation, another election held, and the usual fee of $5.00 be charged therefor. NO DATES OF ELECTION GIVEN.
It appears from the Annual Reports that fourteen Secretaries failed to report the date on which they held their Annual Election for 1927.
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We. recommend that the Grand Secretary take this matter up with each lodge, and where the election was held at a time other than authorized by law, they be required to make application for a Special Dispensation, paying the usual fee of $5.00 for same and hold another election. NO DATE FOR HOLDING STATED COMMUNICATION.
Ten lodges neglected to show on their report the time for holding their Stated Communications. The blanks furnished for annual returns are plain, and there is no excuse for this omission except carelessness. HALLS BURNED.
Three of our lodges suffered the loss of their halls the past year. Some valuable records were burned through failure to provide suitable protection for these documents. A fireproof case can be procured at a very reasonable cost, and your committee feels that any lodge in this Grand Jurisdiction that cannot afford such protection has little claim for consideration on the part of the Grand Lodge in case of loss. RESTORATION OF CHARTERS.
We note with pleasure that a large number of our lodges have forwarded their charters to the Grand Secretary, and we see no good reason why all should not take advantage of this service rendered us by the Grand Lodge. We concur with the Grand Secretary in his recommendation with reference to listing hereafter only the names of lodges who have not filed their charters. Our hope is that next year no list will be necessary. DATA CONCERNING CHARTERS.
We desire to particularly call your attention to this portion of the Grand Secretary's report. It is interesting to note that we have eighty-two lodges working under copies of original charters, thirteen of which have twice lost their charter, and one has had to call on the Grand Lodge for a fourth charter. We are indeed fortunate that our records are such that authentic copies can be made and furnished to the unfortunate lodges. BOOKS OF ANNUAL RETURNS.
Your committee approves the recommendation of the Grand Secretary with reference to sending in the Books of Annual Returns for verification and correction, HISTORY OF LODGES.
This subject has been before us so ihany times in the past that there is little left for us to say. Those of us who belong to the older lodges realize the value of a history. A vast amount of effort has been
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expended in some lodges that could have been saved had their narrative been prepared prior to the death of some of their older members who were familiar with many details of early history. We again strongly urge you to take up this important work, which will be so much appreciated by posterity. Special mention is deserved by Brother D E W I T T T . WRIGHT, of King Solomon Lodge No. 10, and Brother FRANK P. STRICKLAND, J R . , of Kaw Lodge No. 272, for the excellent histories they have prepared for their respective lodges. COPIES OP C H A R T E R S .
We. approve the action of the Grand Secretary in supplying Lawrence Lodge No. 6, and Acacia Lodge No. 9, with certified copies of their original charters. AMERICUS LODGE NO.
109.
That portion of the Grand Secretary's report with reference to this lodge should be of great interest to every member of the Craft. This case emphasizes the necessity of the Grand Lodge adhering strictly to the Constitution, Laws and Regulations of the Fraternity. We recommend that the charter issued to this lodge in 1875 be cancelled, and the Grand Secretary be authorized to add to the original charter the necessary certificate concerning the change of the name from Obedience Lodge No. 109 to Americus Lodge No. 109, as of date of October 21, 1875, and that a certified photographic copy of the same be sent Americus Lodge. We further recommend that the charter issued in 1875 be filed in the Grand Lodge Museum with a proper certificate attached to the margin as a matter of interest to the Craft in the future. NEOSHO LODGE NO. 2 7 .
The Grand Secretary's report covering this subject certainly brings to our attention an unique situation. We recommend that he be authorized to issue to this lodge a certified copy of the original charter, and that a photographic certified copy of the same be sent to the lodge. SHAWNEE LODGE NO. 5 4 .
The Grand Master has outlined to you the conditions existing in the above lodge, and your committee is of the opinion that its continuance will not be a credit to the Fraternity. We therefore recommend that the charter be revoked, and that the closing details be left in the hands of the Grand Master and Grand Secretary.
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SURVEY OF LODGES.
A vast amount of interesting material has been gathered the past year by our survey. We are astounded with the great number of irregularities that apparently prevail. The Grand Master has furnished us, through personal effort, a chart giving the result of the survey, and this chart your committee feels will be the means of correcting many irregularities now existing. It represents a tremendous amount of labor on his part, and is most comprehensive. All lodges are Usted with the exception of twenty-one, and we recommend the continuance of this work until all are included. All Secretaries have been furnised a complete set of approved forms which can be purchased from the official printer at a cost much less than can be secured from local concerns. The use of these forms is not only in accordance with our law, but will greatly lighten the labors of the Secretaries and Treasurers. In the face of all this, we find a great many lodges using improper forms. The question of the proper handling of lodge funds has been brought to your attention numerous times, yet the survey indicates that a great many of our lodges are disregarding the, law, and voiding the bond protection which we recently secured. Our laws are plain on this subject, and must be obeyed. Another interesting section of the survey chart shows 1,802 Life and Honorary members. While there may be instances where it is advisable to issue memberships of this nature, yet, we feel it has been overdone. Your committee dislikes anything that smacks of glory. It should have no place in Masonic circles, and certainly is contrary to our precepts. The great variance in dues should be of interest to every member of the Craft. While the dues of the lodge should be held down to where they are not a burden on the individual member, yet, some of our lodges would greatly improve their condition by raising their dues. A healthy lodge should derive enough revenue from dues to care for all current expenses. Fees can then be turned into a sinking fund for emergencies, or applied on the purchase of a hall. From the survey, it is plain that the lodges with higher dues are more active than those where the dues are insufficient. WHITEWATER LODGE U. D.
Under date of May 16, 1927, the Grand Master issued Letters of Dispensation for the formation of a new lodge at Whitewater, Butler County, to be known as Whitewater Lodge Under Dispensation. The petition was signed by twenty-two brethren and during the term of the Letters the Grand Master authorized the addition of ten names. Conditions surrounding the issuance of Letters of Dispensation for the establishment of a lodge at this place were unusual as it was
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only at the last Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge that the charter of Brainerd Lodge No. 280, located in the same town, was revoked on account of strife and dissention among some of the members. We are informed the Grand Master, after making a thorough investigation, decided that it would be for the best interests of the Craft at large to establish another lodge in this town. The Letters of Dispensation were issued with Brothers PAUL ROSS, a Past Master of the former lodge, as Master; LEWIS S. FOSTER, Senior Warden, and Ross C. MERTZ, Junior Warden. The Letters of Dispensation however, were issued contingent on the proposed officers receiving instructions from one of the authorized Lecturers. The instructions were accordingly given and due report made to the Grand Master. It appears from the transcript that Brother Ross C. MERTZ, selected as Junior Warden, did not fill that office at any one of the fourteen Communications held under the Dispensation. A letter to the Grand Secretary from Brother PAUL ROSS, the Master, states that on account of personal matters Brother MERTZ was unable to fill the office, and that Brother HENRY N . JESSEN had been appointed in his place. We observe, however, from the transcript that out of the fourteen Communications held Brother JESSEN only served as Junior Warden at seven of them, various other brethren being appointed at the other Communications. During the time this lodge worked under the Letters of Dispensation they initiated and passed two and raised one, making their total membership thirty-three. The transcript of the minutes is neatly prepared in typewritten form, and all instructions concerning the keeping of the records have been complied with. These brethren have presented a petition for a Warrant of Constitution which has been referred to this committee. We notice, however, that the three principal officers recommended, with but one exception, are not those appointed by the Grand Master under the Letters of Dispensation and who, under his direction, received instructions from the Lecturer. Brother LEWIS S. FOSTER, who served as Senior Warden under the Dispensation, is recommended for Master, and Brothers HENRY N . JESSEN and CARL C . RIGGS, who are recom-
mended for Senior and Junior Wardens respectively, were not appointed by the Grand Master under the Letters of Dispensation. This is a most unusual procedure as it is the custom, and indeed a necessary one, that the three principal officers who have been appointed and instructed under the Letters of Dispensation should be continued for the first year under the Warrant when the lodge is regularly constituted, and the officers installed. As it seems to be the desire of the brethren to make a change in the three principal officers, and as these newly recommended officers occupy relatively the same position as those nominated and appointed
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in the Letters of Dispensation, it necessarily follows that they should be required t o receive instructions from an authorized Lecturer and serve in the several stations under Letters of Dispensation. Your committee therefore recommend that the Letters of Dispensation be continued until December 31, 1928, with the three principal officers recommended in the petition for a Warrant and that they be required to receive instructions from one of the authorized Lecturers before conferring any of the degrees. Fraternally submitted, ELLSWORTH B . SEWELL, JR., JOHN DAVIS, HAROLD T . ENGLISH,
Committee.
CALL FROM LABOR TO REFRESHMENT. The Grand Master then, called the M.-.W.-.Grand Lodge from labor to refreshment until 7:15 P. M.
EVENING SESSION. V
WEDNESDAY,
February 22, 1928.
The Grand Master called the M.-.W.-.Grand Lodge from refreshment to labor at 7:15 P. M. SPECIAL ADDRESS.
The following Special Address, to be delivered during the year at all District Meetings and subsequently in all lodges, and which had been prepared by authority of the Grand Lodge and on instructions from the M.-. W.-. Grand Master, was delivered by W.-. ROBERT P. MCCOLLOCH:
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T H E SPIRIT OF MASONRY. BRETHREN:
Having taken a survey of Masonry, traced it to original sources, noted its Landmarks, spoken of its Symbols, reviewed its history and growth it may be intersting and instructive to attempt a discovery of its outstanding feature as it may be gathered from our former studies. From its inception and up to the present time it has been the purpose of Masonry to bring about the Brotherhood . of Man. Since the beginning of human history there has been such discord as led to strife, divisions, wars. It is the mission of Masonry to convince men that they are brethren. That the life of one is interwoven with the lives of all. That what the individual is the mass will be. That all progress begins with the individual. The history of the human race is best understood when it is built around an individual who has assumed leadership and given direction to the thought and action of his times. And it is in this way that Masonry seeks to express itself and convey its lessons, building around some such man and from his work drawing out the philosophy it presents as the lessons of such a life. The history of the human race discloses how early strife began, and how often families and peoples engaged in wars. If we take the biblical account of the killing of ABEL by his brother CAIN, or the accounts of feuds and wars engaged in from the earliest times we shall be forced to the conclusion that there has been much more of warfare than of welfare in the minds of peoples even to the present time. Much of the strife and conflict have been because of ideals very different from those of Masonry. It has taken all these centuries for the seed of Masonry to find firm lodgment in the minds and hearts of men. Indeed it may be said that only here and there has Masonry made any
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considerable progress in the effort to realize its ultimate ideal. And this has not been entirely due to outside and opposing influences. Within the Craft there have been disagreements and disputes contrary to masonic tenets. If within the .Body of Masonry there had been the singleness of purpose and thought so necessary to success all Masons would have pressed upon the world the central ideal of the Fraternity. Many of the wars of ancient and modern times would not be. matters of history, but peace and goodwill would have large place in human affairs. It is to the task of bringing peace that Masonry should now dedicate itself. The philosophy of the Fraternity should become active. There has been enough of teaching and preaching and now there should be the putting in action the vital principles of Masonry. If this be done there can be no doubt but that the whole world will experience such harmony as has not been obtained. It is difficult to fasten attention upon thehighest ideal. There are many things "to mar clear vision. There is human nature and the individual interest to chill enthusiasm and obscure the ideal. It will not be until selfishness is banished from individual minds and service becomes the controlling purpose of every member of the Fraternity that the complete ideal will be realized. For every member therefore there is the call for. the cultivation of such principles of the Fraternity as will make for the growth of the Spirit of Masonry. As never before there is presented the opportunity to unify peoples and to unite the nations in a world of high ideals. Whatever difficulties lie in the way of bringing about the desired end can be met and overcome by the banishment of prevalent ideals and the replacement of these by ideas in accord with the Spirit of Masonry. Selfishness must give way to service. Business, finance, commerce and all things thought to be of such vast importance must come to realize that in all dealings there shall be more of fairness, justice, equity. Captains of Industry must become Captains of Goodwill. In all matters of business, politics.
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social life there must be a recognition of the new standards and the putting of these into every department of our complex life. Masonry should stand for men rather than for the places men occupy. Masonry is a genuine democracy and as such recognizes no man for his wealth, talients, position, but for himself. In Masonry character a,lone counts. The task of bringing all men to see this is no light one but it can be accomplished by a faithful adherence to masonic philosophy and a living of lives in accord with that philosophy. The Spirit of Masonry is so necessary for the bringing about of world harmony that its importance cannot be over estimated. It is significant that much thought is being given to it and if it can be clearly shown how much the future of the world depends on it there will be a movement of such size as will indicate an interest of unusual proportions. The thoughtful Mason always has in mind the duties he owes to himself, his community, the state, the world. He is always ready to join himself to any movements having for their purpose the bringing about of better conditions. He notes the changing conditions, adjusts himself to them, joins others having the same views. He seeks to apply the fundamentals of Masonry to present needs. He makes himself an active force in the building up of his community. He exhibits the principles of Masonry in thought and action and thus is able to largely infiuence the people of his locality. Where such a man exerts this influence it is bound to spread to other communities and thus there is realized in some measure that which is so greatly to be desired. If all members of the Fraternity were so minded there can be no doubt but that the most beneficent results- would follow and that quite soon there would be the era of good feeling and good will in all places where the Spirit of Masonry was thus manifested. In this effort the true Mason takes interest in politics but only as the word is used in its largest meaning. He is never a partisan, but always a patriot. Taking the en-
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larged view of governmental affairs and with profound sense of personal responsibility he strives to obtain good government. It is no reflection on others to say that in Masonry as it is lived by such members there is presented a worthy example of good citizenship. But all Masons do not thus realize responsibility. In common with other citizens they fail in the plain duty of attending upon elections of local and general character. Much that is wrong in government could be bettered, perhaps cured, if there could be a full expression at the polls. As matters stand we are governed by minorities. It is one of the grave dangers of our government. It is the duty of all Masons to take part in all elections and to encourage others so to do that the plan and purpose of the fathers may again be the foundations of our free government. There are many causes contributing to the awakening of the Spirit of Masonry. Among these is the growing belief in its philosophy as a means of bringing about unity. Out of this belief there will come a movement that will arouse members to the duty of the hour and bring a large increase in membership. The thought that Masonry can change world conditions for the better will arouse enthusiasm. There will be an eagerness to be of that body exerting such influence in world affairs. And the Craft all 'round the world will feel the touch of the energizing spirit and inaugurate a campaign such as the world has never known. Masonry offers itself for the solution of all problems whether of the individual, the community, the state, the world. With faith in itself it stands ready to prove its value in every time of stress and trial. Wherever the Spirit of Masonry is best manifested there the individual and collective life is of the highest type. There is more of harmony, helpfulness and the appreciation of the better things. Masonry has regard for the home, the community, religion. It seeks to direct into right relations and to elevate, enlarge and make pleasant all that makes up life. And yet it does not seek to in-
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terfere with other agencies, but rather to cooperate with them in building up and enlarging all that enters into human affairs. Masonry has a place in human affairs and if permitted to exercise its full powers will change many of the dangerous situations now disturbing the nations. There will be a new diplomacy in which truth rather than deception will govern. Statesmen will speak and act with broadening views. Organized governments will operate on broader foundations and there will be a world cooperation in matters of general interest. Such a condition, so desirable, is even now the aim and purpose of many leaders as it is of many members of the Craft in all parts of the world. But there are some who will not easily accept the program of Masonry as it is conceived of by those who are striving to bring about the better conditions. Such as these must in some manner be convinced that their interests are identical with all others and that unity is necessary for happiness and the right relationships. Along such lines there must be an educational program. To such a plan there must of necessity be a reviewing of the masonic ideals and a presentation of the needs of the union and cooperation of all the world. There are those who insist that the ritualism of Masonry binds the Spirit of Masonry. Others contend that without the ritualism there could be no spirituality. The better view however is that each has its place and when rightly coordinated are necessary the one for the other. Masonry attracts by its ritualism and by it the Spirit of Masonry is made purposeful. In the effort to bring about the unity of mankind there have been many men of character and distinction who have had much to do with the making of our fundamental laws and the later legislation resting upon them. These men have used their talents for the incorporation into our constitution and basic laws the ideals of our Fraternity and these have been of great value in bringing about better understandings. An examination of our own Constitution will disclose the fact that much of masonic
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philosophy is written into it as basic ideas upon which our form of government rests. In Masonry conduct counts for more than belief. The tenets of the Fraternity are very valuable as such, and yet are of little value except as they are expressed in lives. The reason that Masonry has not had greater influence is because its members have not always carried out in conduct the ideas which are the foundations of masonic philosophy. The coming of the era of brotherhood can only be brought about by the application of these principles to the conduct of Masons in their relations to one another as well as with all men everywhere. Such a desired state has not yet arrived and may not be realized for many years. And yet it cannot be denied that with advancing time Masonry and the Spirit of Masonry will have a larger part in all that concerns human life and action. While the Spirit of Masonry appears to have slow growth there has never been a time when it was not somewhere present as a helpful factor for the advance of civilization. The greatest movements are quiet movements. They are the still small voices that mould humanity. Movements that have within them the elements of excitement and emotion are not of greatest value. After the noise and confusion of many voices have passed away leaving impressions for good or evil there remain as the foundation on which civilization rests the still and quiet voices which guide and control the race in all forward and upward movements. It is not natural for the people of one country to have great love for the people of another country. But if the Spirit of Masonry can be put into the hearts of all peoples there will be a distinct advance toward the time when spears will become pruning hooks and swords, plowshares. While Masonry is not religion and does not claim to be yet it has spiritual influence that is seen and felt. It seeks to lift men out of themselves and to make them regard their fellowmen as brothers and equals. It puts
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emphasis on the Golden Rule. To the cultivation of that spirit it gives approval and the urge to make it dominant in life. Masonry has regard for the dignity of labor. It puts its stamp of approval on all that makes for better homes, better cities, better states. I t raises the man who is weak and makes him strong. -It desires to fill minds with right ideas and so to become useful and valuable in all the relations of life. A great event is after all but the climax of the commonplace. If, today, some force for good is holding attention. it is because of the years of commonplace labor which have thus culminated. The triumphs of Masonry are but the result of a long series of efforts on the part of many men in all parts of the world who have labored to bring about these wonderful and desirable results. I t is the mission of Masonry to achieve such results aiid the duty of every Mason to make his contribution to the high purposes and plans of the Fraternity. In the Spirit of Masonry we discover the real object of the Craft. Originally but few in numbers and these bound together as operative masons it came to be a body of speculative Masons, expressing its philosophy by use of the tools of the artisans as signs and symbols. Being so equipped the speculative Mason is prepared to contend for mastery in the battle between light and darkness. And these two are always fighting for supremacy. Ignorance is opposed to knowledge, truth to error, hatred to love, good to bad. All the philosophy of Masonry is directed to secure the mastery of the good over the bad. In the conflicts of the past the Spirit of Masonry has won some victories. In the conflicts of the present and future this spirit will so take hold of the thoughts and actions of men that with resistless force there will be won the battle which shall eliminate evil from the world. War is a tragedy and so coming to be recognized. The time has passed when it can be said to be popular. It is no longer the sport of kings or of peoples. It has become a thing to be dreaded, a thing of horror. As the young men of America who were in the World War revisited the
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scenes of conflict in France there was the expressed purpose to make impossible a recurrence of the awful thing. Some events make records. Others make history. Such a history making event was that when the four lodges of Masons in London met and organized the Grand Lodge of England. From that time Masonry took on new life and there has been a steady increase in membership, interest, influence. Masonry as a world force may be said to date from that time. It is well to remember that much of hatred results from ignorance. As means of communication multiply people are brought closer together, come to know each other better and there results clearer understanding and fewer causes for quarrels that have so often led to conflicts of many kinds. Masonry has taken account of these conditions and with the forces within itself has. done much to eliminate these from human life. The Spirit of Masonry should be set free, so emancipated it would touch the hearts of all men everywhere and so transform them that much of the evils of the times would disappear, and the nations brought into closer relationships and warmer friendships than have heretofore been known. While this is highly to be desired there are many conflicting elements to be removed before there can be any such degree of harmony as would result from such conditions as might be termed ideal. To the bringing about of these conditions Masons should lend themselves. The present is being proclaimed as the mechanical age. There is a theory somewhat popular that man is but a machine. There are those who insist that there is no spirituality in man. Now, since Masonry stands for spirituality, and for all that makes for the higher and better things of life it must lead the way in a return to the idealism of the fathers and in a protest against the mechanical idea of human life. Man is not a machine but a being endowed with will, mind, emotions, purposes. Masonry should meet the mechanical theory of life with its philosophy of life and its belief that his spirituality is man's crowning glory.
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Out of all the philosophy of the ancients which has enriched the minds of men Masonry has taken the best and adapted it to its peculiar purposes. Thus there has grown up a system of the highest order and one well calculated to bring men into harmony. Every year sees some advance made in the acceptance of this philosophy in all departments of human thought and action. With the ending of the World War there came to all peoples the consciousness that coupled with the loss of the world's young manhood there was the loss of raw and manufactured materials that would have been valuable for the comfort and convenience of mankind. These conditions led to efforts having for their purpose the making of such another such war impossible. The method suggested and adopted may not have been entirely satisfactory, but every where there is the purpose that some way must be found to prevent the recurrence of a like event. To any project looking to the bringing about of an eduring world peace the Spirit of Masonry will lend itself, and operating with other forces will aid in giving impetus to movements for the banishment of conflicts between the nations. There is nothing akin to war that can bring such disaster and ill-feeling and in all plans for future world life there must be injected as the controlling idea the fact of brotherhood as the basis of intercourse. While there will remain the ideal of nationalism there must also be the ideal of internationalism. The two must not conflict but, acting in unison they will constitute the charter for the union of the race. So operating they will eliminate race hatred, race prejudice and bring all peoples to a realization of that which is the purpose of the Creator, that every man is the brother of every other man. Never before were there suggested so many movements for the bringing in of the era of brotherhood. Every community, large or small, should have a part in this great enterprise. While Masonry is recognized as a distinct science and is made up of men who subscribe to particular tenets it has
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within it elements which make it of peculiar value in the realm of life founded on good morals. Its members are charged to be good and true men, living lives of worth in their several communities. Through them the Spirit of Masonry is to find its way until it touches the lives of others and transforms them. Thus it will become a light on the highway of life, a beacon and guide to those who aspire to the fullness of joy that is had by those who serve rather than are served. The Spirit of Masonry if the spirit of true brotherhood. It makes appeal to men os all classes and conditions. It declares the truth of the Scripture that all men are brethren and endeavors to make this truth a very vital thing in the relations one to the other. And with every means it can command it teaches and liv.es the life so highly commendable in the individual and collective scheme of human affairs. It is always to be remembered that Masonry as we know it is the evolution of the speculative from the operative form. It is a system of philosophy in which its great truths are expressed by symbols and signs and allegories are made plain by use of the tools of the artisans as they used them in the construction of the magnificent temples and buildings of the early times. As in these buildings the operative masons expressed their ideal so do Masons of today express their ideals by the use of the simple tools of their ancient brethren. There is a liberty that is designated as liberty under law. That is the order in Masonry. Every Mason is accorded the.largest liberty consistent with the rights of his fellows. The Spirit of Masonry is meant to be a free spirit and to make those possessing it entirely free in the exercise of it, and devoted to the task of securing it for all others who may be in any way enslaved. Such is the conception of the Spirit of Masonry. It is an active energizing force capable of having a large part in the uplift of humanity and the movements looking to a reunion of the races of the world. Wherever expressed it justifies its right to be recognized as necessary for the solution of world problems and the conduct of world
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affairs. Everywhere it should be given opportunity for the making of better conditions, better relations, better life. . To the extension of the fields of its operation every member of the Craft should give the best he has in him.
EXEMPLIFICATION OF THE WORK.
In accordance with an invitation extended Siloam Lodge No. 225, Topeka, the Third Degree was exemplified, in Representative Hall, State Capitol Building, under the direction of W.-. HARVEY 0. DAVIS, Lecturer.
CALL FROM LABOR TO REFRESHMENT. The Grand Master then called the M.-.W.-. Grand Lodge from labor to refreshment until 8:30 A. M., Thursday.
MORNING SESSION.
THURSDAY,
February 23, 1928.
The M.". W.'. Grand Lodge was called from refreshment to labor by the M.-. W.-. Grand Master at 8:30 A. M.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON CORRESPONDENCE.
R.-.W.'.ALBERT K . WILSON, chairman, stated the Report on Correspondence had been prepared, printed, and would appear in the Annual Proceedings.
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SPECIAL REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON CORRESPONDENCE.
R.-.W.-. ALBERT K . WILSON, chairman, submitted the following Special Report on Correspondence, which, on motion of M.-. W.-. JOHN W . NEILSON, was adopted: To The M:. W.: Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: AUSTRIA—VIENNA.
Under date of February 5, 1927, a communication, addressed to your Grand Secretary, was received from the Grand Lodge of Vienna, Austria, requesting recognition as a regularly constituted Masonic Grand Lodge. The communication was referred to your Committee on Correspondence, but there was not sufficient time between the date of its receipt and the Communication of our Grand Lodge in 1927, to permit of a proper investigation and report. In the collection of data regarding the several Grand Lodges of Europe no jurisdiction has such a fund of information as the Grand Lodge of New York, which has been secured through the united efforts of Past Grand Master S. NELSON SAWYER, Chairman, and Brother OssiAN LANG, Secretary, of their Foreign Correspondence Committee. The information assembled by these brethren has been through personal visits made to this and other European countries. In order, therefore, to make a comprehensive report on this request your committee appealed to the good offices of M.\ W.'. Brother SAWYER, who not only furnished the information sought but likewise much valuable data on which their own reports to the Grand Lodge of New York were based. Your committee are under obligations to M.'. W.'. Brother SAWYER, who is resident Justice of the Supreme Court of New York at Palmyra, as we realize that owing to the great distance existing between the location of our Grand Lodge and that of Austria it would have entailed an endless amount of correspondence and even then it-is problematical whether we would have secured such complete data as we now have. The communication making this request indicated that the Grand Lodge of Vienna conformed substantially to the formula required by our Grand Lodge, viz., sovereignty and independence; the use of the Three Great Lights of Masonry; the Holy Bible; Square and Compasses on their altars; a proper reference to the Three Lesser Lights; the teaching of the Symbolism of Freemasonry; the Legend of the Third Degree; and a strict adherence to the Ancient Landmarks, Charges and Regulations of Masonry. Under their regulations Masons are only made after attaining the age of twenty-four; political and religious discussions are not permitted in their lodges; charity is freely dispensed, and in many other respects the general customs of Freemasonry are practiced.
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This Grand Lodge was organized in 1918 by fourteen lodges formerly working under the Constitution of the Symbolic Grand Lodge of Hungary, and a charter issued on January 25, 1919. To these lodges six new ones have been constituted under their own authority. They have a membership of approximately 1,500. Conditions are best explained by quoting the following paragraph from M.'. W.". Brother SAWYER'S letter:
"Returning specifically to your inquiry regarding Vienna, that organization is an offshoot of the former Grand Lodge of Hungary, which after the war was suppressed by the new government. Strange to say that notwithstanding the action taken in Hungary where it had been theretofore permitted, the prohibition which had existed in Austria was not continued; as a result, a number of the brethren residing in that country formed themselves into lodges and ultimately constituted the Grand Lodge of Vienna, consisting, as I now recall, at that time, of fourteen lodges. I am under the impression that same have since been added to, but the data is in the New York office and I am unable to definitely state from recollection. We have been in Vienna every year since 1922, Mr. LANG having visited there as late as March of this year. The lodges are regular, the organization is regular, and the fundamental Landmarks of the Fraternity are fully complied with, as has been demonstrated by our first hand observation." After giving this request careful consideration, based on the foregoing, your committee have the following recommendation to make: A careful review of the history of Masonry in Austria shows that since the establishment of the first lodge in 1742 conditions surrounding Masonry have been most chaotic^odges having been established, existing for a short period and then suppressed. This condition obtained until 1918 when the Grand Lodge of Vienna was created by lodges constituted by and under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Hungary, which has never been recognized by our Grand Lodge as a lawfully constituted Masonic Grand Lodge, recognition having been denied in 1879, and therefore no fraternal intercourse has ever existed between the members of the lodges of that jurisdiction and our own. While the Grand Lodge of Vienna conforms substantially to all the requirements of our Grand Lodge regarding recognition, yet in view of the fact that it is, as it were, a child of a Grand Lodge not recognized by our Grand Lodge, your committee are of the opinion that fraternal recognition should not be extended. EGYPT.
There has been referred to your committee a communication from the National Grand Lodge of Egypt under date of January 2, 1927, requesting fraternal recognition and an exchange of Grand Representatives. We find orl examination of our records that similar communications were received from this Grand Lodge in 1903, 1904 and 1915, but in each instance the committee were unable to secure sufficient information on which to base a report, and therefore none was submitted.
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Knowing that the chairman of the Committee on Foreign Correspondence of New York, M.'. W/. Brother S. NELSON SAWYER, and the Secretary of the Committee, Brother OSSIAN LANG, had made a most searching inquiry concerning conditions in this Grand Lodge, and in order that proper action might be taken on this request your committee entered into correspondence with M / . W / . Brother SAWYER and have the following to submit: From the information at hand it seems there is now a schism in the Grand Lodge of Egypt, brought about through the following circumstances: iDRis BEY RAGHBB, who for many years had served the Craft as Grand Master, although it was believed that his services were to the disadvantage of the Grand I-odge, refused to yield the Grand Mastership. The result of this refusal brought about dissatisfaction, culminating in the election of Prince MOHAMBD ALY; however, the Grand Master refused to give up the office and closed the Grand Lodge before the newly elected Grand Master could be installed, giving as his reason that the Prince was disqualified under their Constitution, he never having served as a Warden. The justice of this position was recognized, and the friends of the Prince proceeded to invest him with the necessary offices in order to qualify him for Grand Master. This condition resulted in creating a new Grand Lodge, with IDRIS BEY RAGHEB as Grand Master of the original Grand Lodge and Prince MoHAMED ALY as Grand Master of the seceding one. We are informed that the IDRIS BEY RAGHEB Grand Lodge was about ready to give up its fight and rejoin the former associates, when the head of the Scottish Rite of the Southern Jurisdiction of the United States took a hand in the controversy and presumed to pronounce the MOHAMED ALY organization clandestine and declare the other organization, headed by IDRIS B E Y RAGHEB, regular. I n the meantime another Scottish Rite, of which we understand there are several in that country, recognized the MOHAMED ALY Grand Lodge, and thus the matter remains up to the present time. In view of these conditions your committee feel justified in recommending that fraternal relations be denied. Fraternally submitted, ALBERT K . WILSON,
Chairman.
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EXPRESSION OF THANKS TO M.-. W.-. S. NELSON SAWYER OF NEW YORK.
On motion of M.-. W.'. ELRICK C. COLE, the thanks of this Grand Lodge were extended to M.-.W.". Brother S.. NELSON SAWYER of New York, for his assistance and courtesies extended this Grand Jurisdiction and especially the chairman of the Committee on Correspondence, R.-.W.-. ALBERT K . WILSON. REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEE.
M.-. W.-.JOHN W. NEILSON, chairman of the Special Committee appointed by the Grand Master, in accordance with the recommendation contained in the report of the Committee on Reports of Grand Officers, presented the following report, which, on his motion, was adopted: To The M:. W.-.Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: The several subjects in the address of the Grand Master, which were referred to this committee have had such consideration as time would permit, and the following report is presented: RELIEF.
This Masonic year has been marked by the greatest floods and attendant devastations in the history of our Country, and in conformity with our Masonic duty to relieve distress, our Grand Lodge, through the Grand Secretary, proffered financial assistance, and on receipt of information from Louisiana, Arkansas and Mississippi that aid was needed, vouchers were issued totaling $2,500.00. We heartily commend and approve the action of the Grand Master in extending aid, and his expression of policy in directing that such relief shall be distributed only through the Grand Master of the affected jurisdictions. BONDING LODGE FUNDS.
By action of the Grand Lodge last year the' Grand Master, with the other members of the Council of Administration, were authorized to take such action as they might deem best regarding the bonding of Treasurers and Secretaries. After months of correspondence in securing the necessary data a surety bond covering not only the offices of Treasurer and Secretary
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but the depository of the lodge funds was obtained, premium being paid frorh the funds of the Grand Lodge. Owing to the time consumed in assembling data, the plan, which appears to be satisfactory, has not had a thorough trial. We therefore recommend that the arrangement as formulated be approved and followed for at least the coming year, thus giving a thorough test of the feasibility and practical application of this guarantee against loss of funds through individuals or bank failures, and that the Secretaries be required to furnish such information as required by the Grand Master to facilitate the operation of the plan. We further approve the action of the Council of Administration in the payment of the premium on the bond from the Grand Lodge funds. DEGREE TEAMS.
The Grand Master's remarks relative to conferral of degrees by special teams deserve serious consideration, and we trust that both • officers and members will be guided by his timely advice. It is expected that all officers be proficient in the duties assigned them, and for this reason we approve his recommendation that it be unlawful for a team to confer the degrees in any lodge other than their own without permission of the Grand Master. MASONIC HOME IMPROVEMENTS.
The compliance with civil law is one of our precepts. For the past several years our facilities for the care of patients afflicted with contagious diseases, and under quarantine, have been wholly inadequate. A building on the Masonic Home grounds that cost $20,000.00 has for the past two years stood idle, because of the enforcement of a city ordinance against the keeping of live stock within the city limits. By the expenditure of $20,000.00, $5,000.00 of which has already been provided for by the Grand Chapter, this building can be remodeled and properly furnished and equipped for use as an isolation cottage or hospital. We coincide with the views of the Masonic Home Board that this building be converted to such use, and approve the recommendation of the Grand Master in appropriating $15,000.00 for this purpose. OUR MASONIC HOME.
The necessity for increased accommodations at the Masonic Home makes it imperative that funds be provided for the erection of additional buildings. Having carefully considered ways and means to meet this emergency the Grand Maste r. has recommended that each Master Mason be assessed $1.00 per.year for the next five years, which, with the interest
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accumulations, will produce a fund sufficient to carry out this building . program. Believing that the cry of the needy will be heard, and the care and education of the orphan will not be neglected, your committee approves the adoption of the recommendation for this special assessment. Fraternally submitted, JOHN W . NEILSON, JAY B . KIRK, RICHARD H . CRAVENS,
Committee.
REPORT OP SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON HISTORY OF GRAND LODGE.
R.-.W.-. ALBERT K . WILSON, chairman, submitted the following report, which, on motion of M.-. W.-. ELRICK C . COLE, was adopted: To The M:. W.: Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: Through the action of'the Grand Lodge during the past two years the writer was assigned possibly the most important task ever required of any member in this Grand Jurisdiction—that of compiling a complete history of the Grand Lodge and the Craft in general in Kansas. It is no little task and it will require almost unlimited time to perform this service. Preliminary to submitting a plan for this work it should be borne in mind that much of the data has already been compiled by your Grand Secretary during his tenure of office, for when assuming the responsibilities of Grand Secretary nothing seemed of greater importance than that of securing pictures and biographical sketches of all our Past Grand Masters, as but a comparative few had been obtained prior to that time. This entailed a vast amount of correspondence, labor and personal interviews with some of the oldest members, all of whom have long since passed away. In a few instances it required more than fifteen years of constant searching to secure some of these pictures; however, the work was completed and this portion of the history is ready. Much of the early history of the Grand Lodge and the first six lodges established in this jurisdiction (three of whom formed the Grand Lodge, namely, Smithton Lodge No. 1, Leavenworth Lodge No. 2, and Wyandotte Lodge No. 3) was compiled by your Grand Secretary and published in the Proceedings of the Senii-Centennjal Celebration held in 1906. A large portion of the historical information published in that volume was secured by personal contact with a
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. number of old brethren and citizens in the northeast portion of our state. In order that the permanent record might contain only authentic data your Grand Secretary visited the various points of interest where Masonry was first planted in the northeast corner, making necessary drawings and maps, all of which now appear in the printed record of our Fiftieth Anniversary. This volume will furnish a vast amount of information to the one preparing a complete history of the Grand Lodge and Masonry in this jurisdiction. Notwithstanding the fact that the work to be accomplished will require much time and in many respects will be quite tedious, yet we have the satisfaction of knowing that the pioneers having the affairs of our Grand Lodge in charge were painstaking and conservative in the matter of preserving all records, and to these valuable documents we can now apply for necessary information on which to coinpile this history. Possibly no portion of this history will be of greater interest to the Craft than memoirs of the brethren who have served as Grand Master, as well as others who were associated with Masonry in this Grand Jurisdiction during the pioneer days, and it is doubtful if there is another brother in this jurisdiction other than the writer of this report, who has had the personal acquaintance of all the Grand Masters since the organization of our Grand Lodge, excepting the first three, and these had passed oh long before he became a Mason. It is therefore most desirable that this portion of our history be taken up first, and with this idea in mind your committee will at once start the work of compiling it. Life is most uncertain, and should the writer not be permitted to complete the task assigned to him there are no doubt brethren who have had the personal acquaintance of many of our Grand Masters who would be willing to lend their assistance in preparing this portion of the history and it is hoped that with the start which has been made the work will now go forward to completion. It has been truly said that procrastination is the thief of time and in no instance in the annals of our Grand Lodge could this be more aptly applied than in the preparation of this history. While your committee are unable to report having accomplished any of the actual work assigned, so far as the preparation of the history proper is concerned, yet a general plan has been outlined on which this work should be carried forward—whether by the one now assigned to this duty or some one else. In order therefore to establish a permanent record or basis for this important task, your committee suggests that in the preparation of this history the plan herewith set forth be followed: Picture of M.\ W.-. Brother RICHARD R . REES, first Grand Master. Title Page. Authorization. This should cover briefly the almost unlimited authority given this committee by the Grand Lodge to prepare this important work.
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Preface. This should explain in detail the purposes for which this history is compiled, including a brief reference to the commonwealth of Kansas and the introduction of Freemasonry into its borders: in other words, it should deal, to a certain extent, in generalities both as to state and Masonic affairs. Introduction. Under this subject there should be a brief resume of the preliminaries in the establishment of the first lodges in Kansas by means of which the Grand Lodge was organized on March 17, 1856, and this should then be followed by a reproduction of " Masonry and the Lodges in Kansas," as prepared by our late Past Grand Secretary, ERASMUS T . GARB, and which was published in the reprint of the Grand Lodge Proceedings for the years 1855-1865. In this brief history should be inserted pictures, as far as possible, of those taking part in the establishment of the first three lodges in Kansas and which subsequently organized the Grand Lodge. Preliminaries to the Organization of the Grand Lodge. This should give, as far as possible, the names of those who first proposed the establishment of a governing Masonic Grand Lodge in Kansas Territory and details as to the means of transportation and the hardships endured by these pioneers of Masonry in this jurisdiction. , Formation of the Grand Lodge. This should include not only a copy of the Minutes of the Convention called for the formation of the Grand Lodge, but likewise the adjourned meeting and the subsequent Convention when the Grand Lodge was actually organized. This portion of the records of the Grand Lodge should be interspersed with reminiscences which of course can now only be secured from those well advanced in years, but who received this information from brethren who were actual participants in the establishment of Ancient Craft Masonry in this state. Following this should be the story of each Communication of our Grand Lodge from its formation up to the present time. This would start with the first Annual Communication, giving in an interesting manner the more important subjects which came before the Grand Lodge, followed by the picture and biographical sketch of the Grand Master who presided, together with pictures and sketches of any other brethren who were active in the affairs of that Communication. Then the more important transactions of the Second Communication should be taken up, pictures and biographical sketches included, and in fact treated in the same manner; and so on down through all the years. History of Constituent Lodges. A history of Masonry in this jurisdiction, in order to be complete, must of necessity contain a brief account of the important: features of our lodges, including those whose charters have been surrendered, revoked, or returned to the Grand Lodge on account of the organization of the Grand Lodges of Colorado, Indian Territory, Montana and Utah. It must be borne in mind that valuable history surrounds many of our older lodges where the towns and places in which they were organized have long since passed out of existence, and it is highly important that a complete record be made of these. Strenuous efforts have been put forth by your Grand Secretary for a number of years to secure from each lodge a history of their organization, including the furnishing of photographs of all buildings in which the lodge met, programs and other data, all of which forms a splendid basis on which to start this important work. The Grand Lodge some years ago had special filing cases made for this data and
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to each lodge is assigned one or more drawers in which it can be filed. Many lodges have complied with the requests and in some instances very artistic and well prepared histories have been filed. A number of lodges, however, have disregarded all appeals, and eventually necessary action will have to be taken by the Grand Lodge to secure the desired information. The foregoing is submitted by your committee with no other thought than furnishing a formula for the preparation of a history of the Craft in this jurisdiction, and in order to place on permanent record a definite plan your committee would recommend that the suggestions covering the method of handling this important work be approved by the Grand Lodge. Fraternally submitted, ALBERT K .
WILSON,
Chairman.
A M E N D M E N T OF BY-LAW No. 9 CHANGING THE T I M E FOR HOLDING THE ANNUAL COMMUNICATIONS OF GRAND LODGE.
M.-.W.-. THOMAS G . FITCH moved that By-Law No. 9 be amended changing the time for holding the Annual Communications from the fourth Wednesday in February to the third Wednesday in February. The motion was adopted, and the M.'. W.". Grand Master referred the subject to the Committee on Jurisprudence to make the required changes in the By-Law. R E P O R T OF COMMITTEE ON JURISPRUDENCE.
M.-. W.-. ELRICK C . COLE, chairman, submitted the following report, which, on his motion, was adopted, the amendment to the By-Laws receiving the required twothirds vote: To The M.: W.: Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: Your Committee on Jurisprudence having had under consideration various subjects submitted to it, begs leave to report as follows: SUSPENSION FOR NON-PAYMENT OF DUES.
Your committee recommends the approval of the ruling of the Grand Master under the above heading fixing the time action must be taken by the lodges.
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ADVANCEMENT—STATUS OF MEMBERSHIP.
Your committee recommends the approval of the ruling of the Grand Master in the case of JOHN D . O'BRIEN, a member of Goodland Lodge No. 321. DISCIPLINE.
Your committee recommends the approval of the action of the Grand Master in the case of Washington Lodge No. 5, and Active Lodge No. 158, of Atchison, Kansas. MASTER SHAWNEE LODGE NO. 5 4 .
Your committee is pleased to report under the above head that in view of the fact that the Master of Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Brother FRED A. MITCHELL, has made ample apology to the Grand Master, and in accordance with the direction of the Grand Master, the incident is to be considered closed. REMOVAL
SECRETARY, MOLINE LODGE NO. . 2 6 7 .
Your committee approves the action of the Grand Master in the removal of the Secretary of Moline Lodge No. 267. ILLEGAL TRIAL.
Your committee recommends the approval of the action of the Grand Master in the case of LESTER G. BROWNBECK, a member of Parker Lodge No. 341. DECISIONS.
Your committee recommends the approval of the decision rendered by the Grand Master under the head of "Jurisdiction—Haskell Institute:" " A resident at, or on, the Haskell Indian Institute Reservation can legally petition any lodge located in the city of Lawrence, Kansas, unless he has other fixed legal residence, in which case, under Section 2, Article VI of the Constitution, he can only petition a Lawrence Lodge as a sojourner." Your committee approves the following decision based on the question submitted: Question: A petitioner for the Mysteries of Masonry was rejected in a lodge not having jurisdiction. Can he petition in the lodge having jurisdiction in less than six months? Answer: The action of the lodge first receiving the petition was a nullity. The whole proceeding was illegal, therefore null and void. The candidate may petition the lodge in whose jurisdiction he resides at any time.
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MEMBERS OF LATE BRAINERD LODGE NO. 2 8 0 .
Under the above heading, in the Grand Secretary's report, is a list of members of the late Brainerd Lodge No. 280, who have failed to pay their dues and make application for a Grand Secretary's Certificate. We, therefore, recommend that said members are hereby suspended for non-payment of dues in accordance with By-Law No. 62 of the Grand Lodge Laws. COMMISSIONERS OF TRIALS.
Your commitee recommends that By-Law No. 34 (a) be amended so as to read as follows: 34 (a). Commissioners of Trials.—The Grand Master shall annually appoint a board of five Past or Present Masters of lodges, to be styled Commissioners of Trials; but he may in his discretion appoint a special board of Commissioners for the trial of any given cause. The first named of said board shall be the Chairman thereof, and three members shall constitute a quorum. A single member may take testimony. In the absence of the Chairman, the board shall elected a Chairman pro tempore. The Commissioners shall make full report of their proceedings which report shall be filed in the office of the Grand Secretary. CHANGING TIME FOR HOLDING ANNUAL COMMUNICATIONS.
Upon the motion of M..W.-. THOMAS G. PITCH, the time for holding the Annual Communications of this Grand Lodge was changed from the fourth Wednesday in February to the third Wednesday in February, and the subject referred to this committee for the necessary changes in the law. We, therefore, recommend that By-Law No. 9 be amended to read as follows: 9. Annual Communications.—The Annual Communications shall be held at such hour on the third Wednesday of February in each year as the Grand Master may appoint, and at such place as may be designated at the preceding Annual Communication, or as the Grand Master may order, and no member, or his representative by proxy, reported present at any Annual Communication, shall absent himself from any session without leave from the Grand Master or Grand Lodge. GOLDEN RULE LODGE NO. 90 VS. CHARLES S. KISTLER.
Your committee has had under consideration the appeal of Golden Rule Lodge No. 90 from a verdict of acquittal in the above case. We have examined the records carefully and have listened to representatives of both the lodge and the accused, and we recommend that the action of the Commissioners be approved. MARYSVILLE LODGE NO. 91 VS. GEORGE T. MOHRBACHER.
Your committee has had under consideration the cross appeals from Marysville Lodge No. 91, and of GEORGE T. MOHRBACHER. In this case at the last session of the Grand Lodge appeal was had by
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Marysville Lodge and your committee at that time were not satisfied with the records in the case. Your committee therefore recommended that the case be returned for a new trial. The Grand Master in his wisdom appointed a special Board of Commissioners to hear and determine the action, which Board found the accused not guilty on one of the charges, and guilty on the other, and assessed the punishment at suspension. From this action of the Commissioners both the lodge and the accused appealed. We have made a careful examination of the records and we recommend that the action of the Commissioners be approved and the appeals denied. Fraternally submitted, ELRICK C . COLE, JOHN MCCULLAGH, OTTO R . SOUDERS,
GEORGE 0 . FOSTER, CLAUDE O . CONKEY, Committee.
SUPPLEMENTAL REPORT—COMMITTEE ON JURISPRUDENCE.
M.-. "W.-. ELRICK C . COLE, chairman, presented the following majority report,.being signed by four members of the committee, which, on his motion, was adopted: To The M:. W:. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: O R I E N T LODGE N O . 51 v s . CARL R. WHITE.
Your committee having had under consideration the appeal of CARL R . WHITE in the above case beg leave t o report as follows: We have carefully examined the records . and transcript of the evidence in the above case, and in our opinion the conviction is justified by the evidence and should be sustained. We therefore recommend the approval of the action of the Commissioners. Fraternally submitted, ELRICK C . COLE, JOHN MCCULLAGH,
GEORGE O . FOSTER, CLAUDE O . CONKEY,
Committee.
ELECTION OF OFFICERS.
The hour having arrived for the election of Grand Officers, the M.'. W.'. Grand Master announced the following tellers: HENRY L . GAMES, No. 269; PAUL M . MARTIN, No. 1; BENJAMIN F . HEIS, No. 2;
CLAUDE F . YOUNG,
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No. 8; EDGAR T . FOSTER, N O . 212; A. PHILLIP LAPHAM, No. 53; CLARENCE E . BIRCH, NO. 6; WALDEMAR V. RiESEN, No. 91; JAMES H . BEEGLE, NO. 94; WILLIAM B. PENNY, N O . 80; DAVID A. NYWALL, N O . 336; JOHN S. RiGG, No. 140; JOHN J. RECHT, NO. 199; JOSEPH E . BREAKEY, N O . 204.
The election resulted in the selection of the following officers: E.'.W.-. FERRIS M . HILL Grand Master ;Emporia. R.-.W.'. GEORGE F . BEEZLEV Deputy Grand Master... Girard. R.-. W.-.'JAY B . KIRK Grand Senior Warden lola. W.'.JOHN M. KiNKEL Grand Junior Warden Topeka. R.-.W.-. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH....Grand Treasurer Lawrence. R.-.W.-.ALBERT K . WILSON Grand Secretary Topeka.
R E T I R E M E N T OF ALBERT K. WILSON, GRAND SECRETARY.
Following the announcement of the Tellers that Brother ALBERT K . WILSON had been unanimously elected Grand Secretary, the Grand Master propounded the usual question, "Brother WiLSON, will you accept?" and in answering the Grand Master's question the Grand Secretary addressed the Grand Lodge as follows: Most Worshipful Grand Master and Brethren: For the thirty-fifth consecutive time I answer this question in the affirmative, but in doing so I feel that the time has come when I should ask this Grand Lodge to relieve me from the responsible duties of Grand Secretary. Thirty-four years ago yesterday I sat in the body of this Grand Lodge, in the northeast corner of this room, and for the first time answered the Grand Master's question whether I would accept the important office of Grand Secretary. Since that time I have each year been re-elected to this office, practically by an unanimous
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vote. In expressing my appreciation of this high honor words fail me, and I can therefore only say from the bottom of my heart that I most sincerely and conscientiously thank the Masons of Kansas for having honored me in a manner seldom equalled by any other member of the Fraternity in this or any other Grand Jurisdiction. When elected Grand Secretary for the first time I was the youngest brother holding that important office in any jurisdiction in the world, while today I am the oldest in years of service with the exception of two, and they are my seniors by only one year. As the members here assembled today are largely of a generation other than those who first conferred upon me this honor, I feel it a duty to recite in a brief manner my experience from the time of my first election up to the present. The brethren who preceded me - as Grand Secretary were indeed among the pioneers of Masonry in this jurisdiction—men of high standing. Masonic students and lovers of the art. In the handling of the affairs of their office they were not unmindful of the importance of preserving all the records and accumulation of Masonic data and published works of various kinds on Freemasonry, but when your present Grand Secretary was elected he found no system of accounts or office or filing equipment for the handling of the mass of records, reports and papers which enter into the history of the Grand Lodge and the lodges in this jurisdiction; indeed, in those days there was neither the equipment nor the means for filing and preserving records that there is today. Therefore, in assuming the office of Grand Secretary it was necessary to begin the assorting of the records and all other matter in connection with the office, placing them in cases and special files for easy access, which necessitated the purchasing, from time to time, of needed equipment. The first and most important work at that time was the compilation of a complete Masonic record of each and every Mason from the establishment of the first lodge in Kansas. For five years this work was carried forward,
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in addition to the many other duties necessary to be performed by the Grand Secretary. At the close of the fifth year the historical registry was completed and placed before the Grand Lodge for examination at its Annual Communication held in the city of Leavenworth. The membership at the time I was first elected was about 18,000, and we now have on our rolls 83,401. The historical registry has been posted up promptly each year and now represents the complete Masonic record of every brother who has ever been reported to Grand Lodge. One of the outstanding features of my official duties and responsibilities was that of preparing historical information and the compilation of the Semi-Centennial Proceedings of the Grand Lodge in 1906. The task of compiling the history of Masonry in northeastern Kansas required my personal efforts in visiting the various points of interest where our first lodges were established and consulting the oldest living Masons and citizens in that part of the state, all of whom have since answered the final call. This important work will be of great value to the one who compiles a history of Ma,sonry in this jurisdiction. In carrying forward the compilation of the records of the Grand Lodge I had in mind the importance of placing them in a building where they would be safe from destruction by fire or water. The attention of our Grand Lodge was called to this important matter, and in 1906 a fireproof building was constructed on the property purchased by the Grand Lodge at Eighth Avenue and Harrison Streets, in the city of Topeka, but in a very few years it was discovered that this building was inadequate to meet the needs of the Grand Lodge, and it was therefore razed and in 1916 and 1917 your present Masonic Grand Lodge Building was erected on the same site, and stands as a monument to the Masons of Kansas for their generosity and as evidence of their appreciation of the importance of preserving the records, books and almost an innumerable collection of valuable Masonic literature, most of which could not be replaced at any price. This structure, facing these Capitol grounds at the northwest corner, is beautiful.
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ornate and was constructed along the lines of the old Roman Ionic style of architecture. Its columns and pilasters are a correct reproduction of the old temples in southeastern Europe and Asia, most of which have crumbled to earth. Whether any other Grand Jurisdiction possesses such a magnificent fireproof structure, and as complete records and Masonic Library as that of our Grand Lodge is left to the judgment of the brethren. As you well know, I have occupied the offices of Grand Secretary and Grand Recorder of the other three Masonic Grand Bodies for many years, and in addition thereto have prepared the Reports on Correspondence for all four. In order to accomplish the latter it was necessary to review the Proceedings at my home in the evening. This work was undertaken because I felt that in my official capacity I could render better service to the several Grand Bodies by having a fuller knowledge of the legislation of the different jurisdictions which can be secured from a reading of the Proceedings, and also by being familiar, not only with the legislation of other jurisdictions but of our own, a better and more comprehensive Report on Correspondence could be submitted for the information of our brethren. I leel that through a kind Providence my life was sparerfr:3even years ago following a serious surgical operation when practically all hope for my recovery had been abandoned by the physicians and my brethren, in order that I might complete certain work, and as the designs laid out on my trestle board as Grand Secretary have now been completed and are ready for the approval of the Master Overseer I am asking to be relieved from the important office I have held for so many years. In retiring from the office of Grand Secretary I feel personally justified in saying that with but one exception this is the forty-sixth consecutive Annual Communication of this Grand Lodge which I have attended. Of those who were Grand Officers and others active in the councils of the Grand Lodge when I first began to attend, and for some years thereafter, all except myself have laid down the working tools of life and answered the final summons.
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With my personal acquaintance with all the Grand Masters except the first three I feel there is an important duty devolving upon me in the matter of assisting in the preparation of a complete history of the Grand Lodge and the lodges in this Grand Jurisdiction, and with my advancing years, if I am to do this work, it is highly important that it be done at the earliest possible moment, and with that in view, and realizing that the preparation of such a work will require considerable tiirie, research, and a vast amount of labor, I must ask that the responsible office of Grand Secretary be placed on the shoulders of another. A special report outlining a plan for this work has already been submitted earlier in this Communication and will appear in the printed Proceedings, and if I am not permitted to take up this work the plan as outlined can be followed by the one delegated to do it. . In conclusion I sincerely hope that whatever good I may have accomplished in this Grand Jurisdiction will forever live in the hearts of my brethren, and that in the future, as in the past, our Grand Lodge and the Fraternity in this jurisdiction will adhere strictly to the Ancient Landmarks, Charges and Regulations, and permit of no innovations, but keep our time honored Institution unsullied and unspotted by the world.
At the conclusion of the Grand Secretary's remarks there was profound silence, and the dimmed eyes of the brethren bespoke the kindly feeling for the one who had endeavored for nearly a half century to counsel them aright, assist them in a better understanding of the underIjnng principles of Masonry, and who at all times and on all occasions defended our Ancient and Honorable Fraternity from imposition, and who sought by words as well as deeds to follow in the footsteps of the fathers.
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EESOLUTION MAKING R.-.W..ALBERT K. WILSON GRAND SECRETARY EMERITUS.
M.-. W.-. Brother ELRICK C . COLE arose and asked permission of the Grand Master to address.the Grand Lodge. This being granted, he then spoke as follows: Most Worshipful Grand Master and Brethren: There is a subject which it appears to me should have the attention of the Grand Lodge, and also that " This is the time" and "here is the place" for such consideration. Perhaps I can best introduce the subject by referring to an ancient Corporal, named MCCARTHY who had served his country faithfully in one of the old time European wars. Relating to a young friend, years afterwards, what he claimed to be one of the important events of his life, he described that just before the battle of Waterloo the D U K E OF WELLINGTON rode along the front of the ranks with anxiety depicted on his countenance, and pausing at the center of. the rank the DUKE inquired, " I s Corporal MCCARTHY in the ranks?" At once the Corporal advanced, and saluting his superior officer, answered " H e is. Sir"; to which the DuKE replied: "Then leave the battle commence". It would indeed seem an odd situation for the Grand Lodge of Kansas to commence its labors in annual session until it was duly ascertained that our most efficient Grand Secretary, A. K. WILSON, was at his post of duty. For thirty-five years he has acted as Grand Secretary of this Grand Body, and during that period of time has been absent from but one session, and that absence was caused by his almost fatal illness. All of us who were present at that meeting will easily recall the feeling of sorrow which we had because of such absence. During all these years there has been no day too long, or too cold, for him to perform his daily tasks, or to give all of his time and faculties for the good of Masonry. As we all know, during many of the past years he has also held a
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similar official position in each and all of the York Rite Bodies of Kansas. The system of records built up by him is acknowledged to be probably the best in use anywhere. He is, perhaps, the one survivor competent to write the history of Freemasonry in Kansas. This morning, succeeding his unanimous re-election, he has advised this Grand Lodge that he must soon step down and let the burdens fall upon younger shoulders. It would indeed show a lack of appreciation of a life time of labor if this Grand Body should permit the occasion to pass without giving an adequate expression of its appreciation for such faithful service. I believe that I speak the feeling of every member of this Body in saying that Brother WILSON be now and here elected- as Grand Secretary Emeritus, and that he receive, during his lifetime, an amount equivalent to the present salary, and honorarium, received by him. For that purpose, and in order that the record may be clear and complete upon this subject, I offer the following resolution, and move its adoption: WHEREAS, Our present Grand Secretary, R.'.W.-.ALBERT K . WILSON, has served this Grand Lodge continuously in that capacity for thirty-four years; and WHEREAS, He has compiled and established an incomparable system of records and accounts, as well as an historical record of each and every member in this Grand Jurisdiction since the establishment of the first lodge, as well as the official records of the Grand Lodge, and largely through his efforts we have erected a magnificent Grand Lodge Office and Library Building; and WHEREAS, During his tenure of office he has secured, gathered and assembled an almost innumerable collection of Masonic historical relics, documents, books and magazines, as well as one of the rarest collections of the oldest known original Masonic works extant; and WHEREAS, He feels that the system of records and accounts are now so thoroughly established that the work can be safely placed in the hands of another without irnpairing, hindering, delaying or in any way affecting the efficiency which has always characterized the work of his office, or in any manner delay or embarrass the Grand Lodge in transacting its usual business; and
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WHEREAS, He feels that his official duties as Grand Secretary and Grand Recorder of all four Masonic Grand Bodies, as well as writing the Reports on Correspondence, have become such a heavy burden that he cannot much longer carry the load ; and WHEREAS, We feel that in view of the fact that he is today practically the only living member who had the personal acquaintance of all Grand Masters of this jurisdiction with the exception of the first three, has been a constant attendant of this Grand Lodge and been in active service for more than forty-five years; and WHEREAS, The preparation of a complete history of this Grand Lodge, as well as that of every lodge, both active and defunct, of this Grand Jurisdiction is of paramount importance to the Craft and he is the only logical one to carry on this important work; and WHEREAS, He feels that in view of the ever increasing work incident to the office and his having lived almost his allotted days the task of carrying the responsibility and performing the arduous official duties of his office has become more than he is physically able to longer assume; now. therefore. Be It Resolved by this Grand Lodge, That our beloved R/. W.". Grand Secretary, ALBERT K . WILSON, at such time as he may elect to relinquish his office, be made Grand Secretary Emeritus, and that his salary and honorarium allowance be paid during the remainder of his life, and that the work of preparing a history of the Craft in this jurisdiction, as indicated above, be placed in his hands and any necessary expenses incurred be authorized from time to time by the Grand Master.
The above resolution was unanimously adopted. PLACE OF MEETING FOR 1929.
W.-. GEORGE W . LOWRY, representing the Masonic Lodges of Wichita, extended a cordial invitation to the M.-.W.'. Grand Lodge to hold the next Annual Communication at Wichita. On motion the invitation was accepted. PRESENTATION OF JEWEL.
W.-. RICHARD H . CRAVENS, on behalf of Salina Lodge No. 60, Salina, the home lodge of the Grand Master, presented M.-.W.-. CHARLES N . FOWLER with a beautiful Past Grand Master's jewel.
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REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON FINANCE AND PROPERTY. W.-. E A R L T . P Y L E , chairman, s u b m i t t e d t h e following
report, which, on his motion, was a d o p t e d : To The M.:W:. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: • To this committee was referred the Grand Treasurer's Report and parts of the Grand Secretary's Report, as follows: List of Regular Lodges. Check for Payment of Grand Lodge Dues Protested. Estimated Revenue and Expenses. Financial Exhibits, Schedules " A , " " B , " " C , " " D , " " E , " and " F " , and Statement of Cash Account. The comrhittee has made an examination and audit of the accounts of the Grand Lodge. All funds were properly accounted for as shown by the report of the Grand Treasurer and the financial exhibits in the report of the Grand Secretary. At the close of the accounts the Grand Treasurer had to his credit as Grand Treasurer, A. F . & A. M., in the Merchants National Bank of Lawrence, Kansas, the sum of forty thousand one hundred forty-five dollars and nineteen cents ($40,145.19), as shown.by the records of the Bank and certified to by F. C. WHIPPLE, Vice President and Cashier. The certificate of deposit is attached hereto, made a part of this report and reads as follows: MERCHANTS NATIONAL BANK.
LAWRENCE, KANSAS, February 1, 1928.
This is to certify that there is in this bank today, to the credit of W. F. MARCH, Grand Treasurer, A. F. & A. M., the sura of forty thousand one hundred forty-five dollars and nineteen cents ($40,145.19). (Signed) F. C. W H I P P L E ,
Vice' President and Cashier.
(Seal.) BONDS.
Bonds amounting to twelve thousand five hundred dollars ($12,500.00) with all unmatured interest coupons attached are in the hands of the Grand Treasurer, and were inspected by the committee. A list of these bonds is shown in the report of the Grand Treasurer. In accordance with action taken at the last Communication of the Grand Lodge, the Grand Treasurer delivered U. S. Fourth Liberty Loan Bonds amounting to fifty-two thousand dollars ($52,000.00) to the Secretary of the Kansas Masonic Home, to be placed in the Endow-
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ment Fund of the Home, and holds receipt No. 2726 dated May 23, 1927, signed Kansas Masonic Home, by Thomas G. Fitch, Secretary, for the same. A recapitulation of the Bond Account is as follows: Bonds on hand at the close of the 1926 account $61,200 00 Purchased 1927 5,000 00 U. S. Fourth Liberty Loan Bonds transferred to Kansas Masonic Home Endowment Fund Bond No. 16, School District No. 79, Greenwood County, retired 1927 United States Savings Certificates paid in 1927 Bonds in the hands of Grand Treasurer at the close of 1927 accounts
$52,000 00
$66,200 00
$66,200 00
500 00 1,200 00 12,500 00
Interest of $1,633.72 accrued on the bond investment and $480.15 on daily balances, was collected and properly accounted for. LIST OF REGULAR LODGES.
An appropriation of $175.00 has been included in our recommendations under the heading of Revenue and Expenses for the purchase of Lists of Regular Lodges. CHECKS FOR PAYMENT OP GRAND LODGE DUES PROTESTED, AND NOTICE OF BANK FAILURE.
That part of our Grand Master's address relative to information obtained through a survey of lodges discloses many irregularities of the handling of lodge funds. A striking example of the result of indifference to the requirements of the Grand Lodge in the handling of funds by the officers of the lodge is found in the case of Moline Lodge No. 267. This committee has no criticism to make in the case of Kiowa Lodge No. 293 as there was no apparent irregularity, but rather an unfortunate circumstance which caused the difficulty. We are glad to report that our Grand Secretary has been reimbursed by both lodges. In the manner of making remittances to the Grand Secretary this committee recommends that all lodges be required to discontinue the use of all forms of remittance except the regular form of warrant.
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REVENUE AND EXPENSES.
Revenue. The estimated revenue from all sources for t h e ensuing year is $43,677 50 Expenses. The expenses for which we recommend appropriations at this Communication are as follows: • Assistant to Grand Secretary $8,600 00 Committee allowance (By-Law 49) 150 00 Expenses Grand Lodge Communication 600 00 Expenses and per diem of Lecturer 1,600 00 Expenses and per diem of Commissioners of Trials 1,200 00 Grand Master's apron 61. 50 Grand Master's contingent fund 1,500 00 Grand Master's salary 800 00 Grand Treasurer's bond premium 87 50 Grand Secretary's bond premium 10 00 Grand Treasurer's salary 100 00 Grand Secretary's salary.. 1,800 00' Grand Secretary's honorarium 1,200 00 Grand Secretary's incidentals 1,200 00 Grand Officers' portraits 50 00 Historical Registry and Abstract. 600.00 Library, furniture, binding, etc 1,000 00 List of Regular Lodges 175 00. Lodge bond premium 1,750 00 Mileage .to representatives (By-Law 51) 2,889 40 Mileage and expenses (By-Laws 49 and 50):.... 1,293 93 Minor salaries (By-Law 48) 150 00 Office and Library Building 3,000 00 Printing Annual Proceedings 3,500 00 Postage and Express 800 00 Private Secretary to Grand Master 600 00 Salary Chairman Committee on Correspondence (By-Law 49) 300 00 Stationery and printing 1,500 00 Stenographic and clerical help 3,000 00 Taxes 2,500 00 PROPERTY.
The property of the Grand Lodge is in its usual excellent condition. All property of lodges which have had their charters revoked has been properly disposed of. Fraternally submitted. EARL T . PYLE, HERBERT E . JULIEN, MOSES H . COLE, JOHN DAVIS, RiCHARP H. CRAVENS, Committee.
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INSTALLATION.
M.-.W.=.ELMER F . STRAIN, assisted by M . - . W . - . J O H N McCuLLAGH, as Grand Marshal, duly installed the following Grand Officers: M.-.W.-. FERRIS M . H I L L Grand Master Emporia Lodge No. 12, Emporia. R.-. W.-. GEORGE P. BEBZLEY Deputy Grand Master Girard Lodge No. 93, Girard. R.-. W.-. JAY B . KIRK Grand Senior Warden lola Lodge No. 38, I d a . R.-. W.-. JOHN M . KINKBL Grand Junior Warden Reno .Lodge No. 140 (residence, Topeka). R.-. W.-. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH Grand Treasurer Acacia Lodge No. 9, Lawrence. R.-. W.-. ALBERT K . WILSON Grand Secretary Orient Lodge No. 51, Topeka.
The M/.W.". Grand Master announced the following appointive Grand Officers: Bro. and Rev. FRED E . BROOKS Grand Chaplain Smithton Lodge No. 1; Highland (residence, Topeka). W.-. J. FORREST AYRES Grand Senior Deacon Greenleaf Lodge No. 232, Greenleaf. *W.-. RoscoE E . PETERSON Grand Junior Deacon Lamed Lodge No. 167,'Larned. W.-. BENJAMIN F . H E I S Grand Marshal Leavenworth Lodge No. 2, Leavenworth. W.'. GROVER C . URBANSKY '.Grand Sword Bearer Pottawatomie Lodge No. 52, St. Marys. W.-. CLARENCE M . CROSBY Grand Senior Steward St. Francis Lodge No. 404, St. Francis. *W.\ JOSEPH C . HART Grand Junior Steward Emerald Lodge No. 289, Lakin. W.-. HOMER T . HARDEN Grand Pursuivant Wichita Lodge, No. 99, Wichita. W.'. W. AMER BURNETT Grand Tyler Mountain Slope Lodge No. 186, Oberlin. •Not present at time of Installation and therefore not installed.
214
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
STANDING COMMITTEES.
The M.-.W.'.Grand Master announced the appointment of the followring committees for the ensuing year: On Credentials.—ROBERT H . MONTGOMERY, No. 63, Oswego; PHILIP EUGENE STOTLER, N O . 3 (residence. Bethel); RICHARD W . EVANS, N O . 222, Dodge City; ROY G . SHEARER, N O . 98, Abilene; GUY W . BROWN, NO. 145, Beloit. On Reports of Grand Officers.—ELMER F . STRAIN, NO. 51, Topeka; JOHN W . NEILSON, N O . 113, Concordia;
FRANK E . DAVIS, No. 5
(residence, Kansas City, Mo.); HERBERT R . HULL, No. 175, Kirwin; LuciAN L. CONSTANT, No. 173, Belle Plaine. On Finance and Property.—EARL MOSES H . COLE, N O . 206, Harper;
T . PYLE, N O . 134, Clay Center; WILLIAM B . PENNY, N O . 80,
Cottonwood Falls; CHARLES E . KESLER, N O . 224, Williamsburg; FRANK D . MATHIAS, No. 29 (residence, Topeka). On Jurisprudence.—WILLIAM L . HUGGINS, N O . 12, Emporia; ELRICK C . COLE, NO. 15, Great Bend; JOHN MCCULLAGH, N O . 194, Galena; OTTO R . SOUDERS, NO. 99, Wichita; GEORGE O . FOSTER, NO. 6, Lawrence. On Chartered Lodges and Lodges U. D.—ELLSWORTH B . SEWELL, J R . , N O . 51, Topeka; JOHN DAVIS, N O . 129, Belleville; WILLIAM A. WEIKAMP, N O . 311, Fort Leavenworth. On Correspondence.—ALBERT K . WILSON, NO. 51, Topeka. On Necrology.—HARRY E . PEACH, NO. 12, Emporia.
SPECIAL
COMMITTEES.
On Revision of Laws.—ALBERT K . WILSON, N O . 51, Topeka; ELRICK C . COLE, NO. 15, Great Bend. On History of Grand Lodge.—ALBERT K . WILSON, N O . 51, Topeka.
COMMISSIONERS OF TRIALS. CHARLES N . FOWLER, N O . 60, Salina; JAMES A. CASSLER, N O . 172,
McPherson; FRANK D . SPERRY, N O . 146, Ellsworth; JAY B . KIRK, No. 38, lola; J. FORREST AYRES, N O . 232^ Greenleaf.
GRAISTD LODGE OF
1927-28.
KANSAS.
215
VOTE OF THANKS. M.-. W.-. T H O M A S G . F I T C H , moved t h a t a vote of thanks, be extended t h e brethren of T o p e k a for t h e courtesies shown. Motion was adopted.
READING OF JOURNAL. T h e journal was then read b y Brother LEON L. CousLAND, P a t m o s Lodge No. 97, official stenographer, and approved.
CLOSING CEREMONIES. The M.-.W.-. Grand Master then closed the M.-.W.-. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas in Ample Form.
"^•^^^iyt^C^
Grand -Master.
ATTEST:
cjfCivl/
JC^^^yOt^^^ Grand
Secretary,
216
PHUCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
MASONIC DISTRICTS, AND LIST OF DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTERS FOR 1928.
Distr: ct Distr: ct Distr: ct Distri ct Distr ct Distr; ct Distri ct Distri ct Distri ct Distri ct Distri ct Distri ct Distri ct Distri ct Distri ct Distri ct Distr; ct Distri ct Distri ct Distr; ct Distri ct Distr ct Distr; ct Distr; ct Distr: Distri ct Distr; ct Distr: ct Distr: ct Distr ct Distr: ct Distri ct Distr; ct Distr: ct Distr; ct Distr; ct Distr; ct Distri ct Distri ct Distr; ct Distri ct
No. No. NO.
1 2 3
No.
4
No. No. No.
5 6 7
No.
8
No. No. No. No. No.
9 10 11 12 13
PAUL M . MARTIN RAYMOND A. NEVIN BENJAMIN F . H E I S
Highland Hiawatha Leavenworth
*THOMAS B . W E B B
Kansas City
HERBERT E . JULIEN CLAUDE C . PATTERSON CHARLES F . TRINKLE
CLAUD F . YOUNG
.,.,
EDGAR T . FOSTER JOHN F . WYATT A. P H I L L I P LAPHAM CLAUDE C . BACON....: CLARENCE E . BIRCH
No. 14
.JAY B . BENNETT
No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No.
JAMES A. CAMPBELL RALPH C . HENDERSON ENOCH E . BROOKS JAMES M. JACOBY WALDEMAR V. RIESEN JAMES M . LAYTON PAUL MADDEN OPHER L . ENGLE E. GLENN ROBISON JAMES H . BBEGLE JAMES W . MCCOLLOCH CHRISTIAN C . KILIAN
15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25.-. 26
No. 27.
WILLIAM B . PENNY
No. 28 No. 29 No. 30
HOLLY M . MILLER EDGAR L . GANN THOMAS E . STAFFORD
No. 31.
No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. ct No.
32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41
ROY H . W I S E VICTOR L . OWENS JAMES T . GRIFFING WILLIAM H . ANDERSON RAPHAEL A. COOK .'. *GEORGE M . LOWRY CLARENCE J. WELLS DAVID A. NYWALL OLIVER E . MURDICK JOHN D . HARKNESS JOHN S . RIGG
Olathe Osawatomie LaCygne
,
Fort Scott Colony Galena Wetmore Muscotah Lawrence
Holton Humboldt Erie Peru Independence Marysville ...Irving Auburn Burlingame Gridley Neodesha Manhattan Green
Cottonwood Falls Howard Burden Cuba
Plainville Chapman McPherson Rosalia Newton Wichita Wellington Formoso Tescott Delavan Hutchinson
1927-28.
District District District District District
GRAND
No. No. No. No. No.
42 43 44 45 46
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
217
RALPH M . HARDER LEWIS G . JENNINGS JOHN J. RECHT JOSEPH E . BREAKEY WILLIAM E . DILLINGER
Zenda Anthony Norton Downs Wa-Keeney
District No. 47
PASCHAL W . LUNDY
District District District District District District
48. 49 50 51 52 53
RALPH C . STEINER JAMES T . FOWLER...... SOLON E . BURGESS BENJAMIN H . FLYR CALTON B . GRISSOM PAUL BROWN
Lyons Arcadia Larned Oakley Syracuse Atwood
District No. 54 District No. 55
DAVID C . KAY ^...LEVERETT G . WOLFE
Morland Smith Center
No. No. No. No. No. No.
District No. 56
PAUL C . GARST
District No. 57
CLARENCE G. NEVINS
District No. 58 District No. 59 District No. 60
HAROLD B . MUNSON JOHN-B. FLEMING BARLUS ROMSTEDT
District No. 61
GEORGE R . THOMASON
District No. 62 District No. 63
ALVA L . SOICB ELMER S. NANCE
District No. 64
HERBERT A. MURRAY
District District District District District District District District District District
No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No.
65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74
District No. 75 District No. 76
Ness City
Pratt
Dodge City Dighton Hamilton Ottawa
Council Grove ...Stafford Oswego
.Valley Falls
KARL S. MCGREW ELMER E. MEYER GEORGE H . MOSS PAUL B . HOFFMANN J. LAWTON STANLEY JOHN H . HIATT ROBERT BIGHAM *FRANK R . CONWELL ...CHARLES H . ZINN PRESSLEY M . FINER
JAMES H . TRICE *DEAN E . DAVIS...-.
Onaga Linn Miltonvale Holyrood Coldwater Plains Kar.orado Topeka Eskridge Satanta
Medicine Lodge Kansas City
SPECIAL ADDRESSES.
No. 4 36 72 76
*Postoffice Addresses. 1125 Cleveland Ave. Care Wichita Flour Mills Co. 1029 North Quincy, 1902 W. 47th St. Terrace.
218
PROCEEDINGS
OF
THE
February,
LIST OF DISTRICTS. DISTRICT
Location. White Cloud Highland Troy Wathena Severance Bendena
NO.
NO.
No. 78 1 55 64 313 440
2.
Hiawatha Hamlin Morrill Powhattan Horton Sabetha Robinson DISTRICT
DISTRICT
1.
Name. White Cloud Smlthton Troy Wathena Severance Bendena
DISTRICT
Hiawatha Hamlin Morrill Powhattan Horton Sabetha Robinson
NO
35 185 373 363 326 162 159
3.
Leavenworth L e a v e n w o r t h .... 2 Leavenworth K i n g Solomon.... 10 Leavenworth Hiram 68 F t . L e a v e n w o r t h ..Hancocli 311 Lansing N i n e Mile 49 BoUng Boling 365 Easton Easton 45 Potter Kickapoo 4 DISTRICT
NO.
4.
Kansas City Wyandotte 3 Kansas City Armourdale 271 Kansas City Kaw 272 Kansas City *R. E . S h e r m a n . . 3 6 9 Kansas City West Gate 438 B o n n e r Springs B o n n e r S p r i n g s 366 W U t e Church Delaware 96 Piper Piper .....'...385 *Roger E . S h e r m a n . DISTRICT
Olathe Gardner Edgerton Lenexa Spring Hill Stanley
DISTRICT
Louisburg Paola Osawatomie Fontana
5.
NO.
NO.
19 65 127 135 56 444
DISTRICT
8.
NO.
DISTRICT N O .
9.
10
Scammon Prudence Galena Baxter Black D i a m o n d
DISTRICT N O .
Whiting.... Netawaka Wetmore Centralia Corning GofT
DISTRICT N O .
61 88 33 286 47 341
Clrclevllle Holton Soldier Mayetta Hoyt Denison
.'
3) 48 116 5 158 72
13.
Lawrence Acacia D e Soto Lin wood Doric Palmyra Henri Perry Lecompton
DISTRICT N O .
250 130 53 89 13 430
12.
Arcana Mackey Muscotah Washington Active Huron DISTRICT N O .
351 100 194 71 274
11.
Whiting P o l a r Star Wetmore Home Nemaha Gofl
Doniphan Efflngham Muscotah Atchison Atchison Huron
243 37 24 131
No. 108 8 92 216 398 210 28 115 ...268
I^ane 339 Greeley 211 Delphian 44 Avon 305 O h v e B r a n c h ...212 Kincald 338 Richmond 426
Scammon Columbus Galena B a x t e r Springs Weir
7.
LaCygne Eureka Mound City Lotus Xenia Parker
NO.
Name. Memphis Rising Sun Devon.. Hiattville Hepler Fulton Eldora Excelsior Bourbon
Lane Greeley Garnett Westphalia Colony Kincaid Richmond
Lawrence Lawrence D e Soto Linwood Eudora Baldwin Tonganoxie Perry Lecompton
6.
Peace Paola Osage Valley Equity
DISTRICT
LaCygne Pleasanton M o u n d City Blue M o u n d Xenia Parker
NO.
Olathe Gardner Palestine Lenexa Spring Hill Stanley
Location. Garland F o r t Scott Devon Hiattville Hepler Fulton Mapleton Unlontown Bronson
6 9 40 241 83 23 190 415 420
14.
Circleville Helton...... Soldier Mayetta Hoyt Denison
20 42 240 393 327 372
GRAND
1927-28.
DISTRICT N O .
LocaHon. Moran La Harpe lola Humboldt SavonlDurg
No. 245 325 38 29 315
16.
Erie 76 Urbana 239 Cedar :..:....103 King David 416 Thayer 149 DISTRICT N O .
Sedan Elgin Cedar Vale
DISTRICT N O .
Edna Coffey vlUe Caney Tyro Independence Cherry vale Elk City
345 102 324 386 107 137 132
19.
Marysville Oketo Beattle Summerfleld Axtell Seneca Oneida
DISTRICT N O .
WatervlUe Blue Bapids Irving Frankfort Vermillion
136 350 355
18.
Edna Keystone..... Caney Tyro..... Fortitude Cherry vale Carson
DISTRICT No.
MarysvlUe Oketo Beattie Summerfleld Axtell •Seneca Oneida
17.
Vesper Olive Chautauqua
91 25 259 354 234 39 323
20.
Sutton 85 Blue Rapids......169 Blue Valley 112 Frankfort 67 Vermillion 320
DISTRICT N O . 21.
Topeka Topeka Topeka Auburn Dover Wakarusa Maple Hill
Topeka.. Orient... Slloam... Auburn.. Dover.... Wakarusa Maple Hill
DISTRICT N O .
Lyndon Osage City Burlingame Carbondale Overbrook Scranton
17 51 225 32 138 402 370
Location. Yates Center Neosho Falls Le Roy Grldley Burlington
Name. Gilead Tuscan Neosho Hebron Burlington
DISTRICT N O .
Fredonia New Albany Fall River Coyville Neodesha Altoona /Benedict.. Buffalo
No. 144 82 27 314 66
24.
Constellation .... 95 New Albany 81 Greenwood 163 Coyville 57 Harmony....: 94 Altoona 118 Benedict 403 Buffalo .379
DISTRICT N O . 25.
Leonard ville Wamego Manhattan Riley Randolph
Garfield Wamego Lafayette Ashlar Farmers
DISTRICT N O .
Clifton Clay Center Green Oak Hill Wakefield
26.
Clifton Clay Center Highland Oak Hill Wakefield
DISTRICT N O .
235 75 16 344 166 122 134 296 334 396
27.
Emporia Emporia 12 Americus Americus...^ 109 Hartford Hartford ;....193 Saffordville Saflordville 395 Cottonwood Falls..Zeredatha 80 Lebo Lebo 152 Allen Allen 335 DISTRICT N O .
Howard Elk Falls Longton MoUne Grenola
28.
Hope Meridian Longton Moiine .....Canopy DISTRICT N O .
Winfleld Burden Dexter Maple City Arkansas City
155 126 26 267 248
29.
Winfleld Clinton Dexter Maple City Crescent
110 233 156 342 133
DISTRICT N O . 30.
22.
Euclid Signal ....Corinthian Carbondale Kidgeway Scranton
219
KANSAS. DISTRICT N O . 23.
15.
Name. Marmaton La Harpe Ida Pacific Virginia
DISTRICT N O .
Erie Urbana Chanute Chanute Thayer
LODGE OF
101 141 79 70 62 407
Republic Scandia BelleviUe Narka Cuba Munden
Republic Lebanon Belleville Narka Cuba... Munden
123 221 129 349 362 128
220
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
DISTRICT N O . 3 1 .
Location. Lincoln Sylvan Grove Lucas Luray Natoma Plain ville Codell
DISTRICT N O .
Name. No. Lincoln 154 Sylvan Grove...359 Blue Hill 198 Luray 153 Natoma .-.390 Paradise 290 Codell 418
DISTRICT N O .
Benevolent 98 ...Bennington 180 Antiquity 280 Enterprise 437 Union 7 Salina GO Solomon City.... 105
Canton Galva McPherson Winriom Lindsborg Moundridge Marquette
Randall Jewell Mankato Burr Oak Forraoso Esbon Lebanon
197 251 172 276 397 346 353
38.
Randall Jewell Mankato Burr Oak Formoso Salem Oak DISTRICT N O .
DISTRICT N O . 33.
Canton Galva McPherson Windom Lindsborg Moundridge Marquette
37.
Location. Name. No. Belle Plaine Belle Plaine 173 Wellington Wellington....;... 150 South Haven Haven 157 Oxford Oxford 165 Caldwell Sumner 203 Milan Milan 255 Conway Springs....Mistletoe 269 Argonia Argonia 285
DISTRICT N O . 32.
Abilene Bennington Chapman Enterprise Junction City Salina Solomon
February,
Minneapolis Barnard Delphos Glasco Simpson Beloit •Seottsville
304 11 87 178 336 228 287
39.
Minneapolis Saltville Delphos :...Glasco Sincerity Mt. Vernon Scottsville
143 59 202 292 214 145 249
DISTRICT N O . 40. DISTRICT N O . 34.
Augusta Beaumont Douglass Leon El Dorado Towanda Rosalia Latham
•.
Mystic Tie Beaumont Douglass Joppa Patmos Towanda Eosalia Latham
74 439 151 223 97 30 434 401
DISTRICT N O . 35.
Newton Halstead Peabody Florence Burrton
Newton Halstead Halcyon Advance Burrton
142 46 120 114 182
DISTRICT N O . 36.
Wichita Wichita Wichita Wiclilta Mulvane Clearwater Valley Center Cheney Mount Hope Sedgwick
Sunflower 86 Wichita 99 Albert Pike 303 BestorG.Brown 433 Mulvane 201 Unity 273 Valley Center....364 Morton 258 Mount Hope 238 Sedgwick 139
Gypsum Herington Delavan Hope White City Marion Burdick....
Gypsum City.. Kansas Delavan Cyrus White City Center Burdick
.328 307 375 288 380 147 429
DISTRICT N O . 41.
Arlington Turon Hutchinson Hutchinson Haven Nickerson
Cable .'. 299 Turon 358 Reno 140 Hutchinson 445 Friendship 208 Nickerson 43
DISTRICT N O .
Kingman Norwich Spivey Zenda Pretty Prairie Cunningham
42.
Nlnnescah.. ..230 Norwich .319 Spivey .347 Zenda .378 Pretty Prairie....428 Cunningham......427
DISTRICT N O . 43.
Anthony Harper Attica Waldron Freeport Bluff City
Anthony... Harper Attica Waldron... Freeport..., Stohrville..
..200 .206 ..262 .377 .389 .368
GRAND
1927-28.
DISTRICT N O .
Location. Almena Long Island Norton Norcatur Oberlin Jennings Lenora
Bussell Hays Ellis Bunker Hill Wa-Keeney
45.
294 125 204 160 207 189
46.
Russell ...Hays Apollo Beulah Wa-Keeney
DISTRICT N O .
La Crosse McCracken Rush Center Ness City
DISTRICT N O .
Glen Elder Cawker City Downs Saqui Occidental Newaiicuba
DISTRICT N O .
177 195 297 291 148
47.
La Crosse 330 McCracken 58 Walnut City 215 Walnut Valley ..191
DISTRICT N O . 48.
Geneseo Frederick Little River Alden Sterling Lyons Chase
Gencseo 361 Frederick 337 Corner Stone ....219 Alden 308 Sterling 171 Royal 192 Chase 247
DISTRICT N O .
Girard Cherokee Pittsburg Mulberry Arcadia Arma Walnut Farlington
DISTRICT N O .
Great Bend Larned Ellinwood Hoisington Claflin
Location. Coolidge Syracuse Lakin Garden City Deerfleld
No. 31B 309 289 240 432
.....Atwood 104 McDonald 383 Saint Francis ...404
DISTRICT N O .
Hill City Hoxie Morland
54.
Millbrook Hoxie Morland
281 348 414
DISTRICT N O . 55.
Gaylord , Kirwln Logan Smith Center Phillipsburg Kensington
Gaylord 183 Kirwin 175 Logan 264 Western Star....174 Phillipsburg 184 Kensington 40ri
DISTRICT N O .
Greensburg Pratt Preston Bucklin MullinviUe Haviland Coats
56.
Kiowa Kilwinning Rob Morris Grand View MuUinville Haviland Coats
293 205 332 376 399 409 394
DISTRICT N O . 57.
93 119 187 ...261 329 408 229 124
Cimarron Dodge City Spearville Ensign Jetmore Minneola Kingsdown
50.
Great Bend Larned EUinwood Hoisington Claflin Oakley Wallace Gove City Grainfleld Grinnell Quinter Sharon Springs
Preston St. Bernard Spearville Ensign Alpha Minneola Klngsdown
DISTRICT N O .
15 167 217 331 424
Dighton Scott City Leoti..... Horace
253 318 302 381 448 410 .417
Eureka Madison Severy Hamilton Climax Toronto
DISTRICT N O . 51.
Oakley Wallace Gove Grainfleld Grinnell Quinter Sharon Springs
52.
Name. Coolidge Syracuse Emerald Tyrian Deerfleld
DISTRICT N O . 53.
Atwood McDonald Saint Francis
49.
Girard Cherokee Pittsburg Mulberry Arcadia Arma Vulcan Godfrey
221
KANSAS.
44.
Name. No. Naphtali 310 Long Island 231 Norton 199 Norcatur 317 Mountain Slope 186 Jennings 360 Lenora 181
DISTRICT No.
Glen Elder Cawker City Downs Osborne Alton Stockton
LODGE OF
58.
Barney Anthem... Leoti Horace
DISTRICT N O .
283 222 388 413 282 431 447 .279 ..284 .340 ..352
59.
Fidelity 106 Madison ...IQe Twin Grove 213 Hamilton 301 ...Climax 411 Woodson 121
PROCEEDINGS
222
OF THE
DISTRICT N O . 60.
Location. WeUs\ille Ottawa Ottawa... Pomona Melvem Williamsburg Waverly Quenemo
Name. WellsviUe Ottawa Melody :...McKinley Melvem Anchor Waverly Quenemo
DiSTBICT No. 61. Council Grove Council Grove Parkerville Parkerville Alta Vista Alta Vista Dwiglit Dwiglit Wilsey Wilsey DISTRICT No.
Lewis Stafford St. John Macks vllle Sylvia Kinsley
DISTRICT N O .
No. 356 18 400 41 22 224 244 270 .. 36 168 357 374 382
62.
X;ewis Stafford... Ionic Macks ville Sylvia Mt. Moriah
February,
220 252 254 371 391 179
Location. Ellsworth Brookville Wilson Holyrood
68.
Name. Ellsworth BrookviUe Samaria Holyrood
No. 146 209 298 343
DISTRICT N O . 69.
Ashland Coldwater Protection Wilmore
Ashland Comanche Protection Wilmore
277 .295 ..384 412
DISTRICT N O . 70.
Meade Liberal Plains
Webb Fargo Plains
..275 ..300 ..367
DISTRICT N O . 71.
Colby Goodland Selden Bexford Kanorado
St. Thomas Goodland Selden Rexford Ka^iorado
306 321 423 442 443
DISTRICT N O . 63.
Oswego ;.... Adams....... Altamont Altamont.. Chetopa Chetopa... Parsons Parsons Mound Valley Landmark McCune Temple
. 63 . 69 . 73 .117 218 237
DISTRICT No.
DISTRICT N O . 64.
Oskaloosa Valley FaUs Winchester.... Meriden McLouth Nortonville
Oskaloosa A'alley Falls Jefferson Meriden Lyra Mt. Zion
DISTRICT No.
14 21 84 236 256 266
DISTRICT N O . 65
Havensville Onaga Westmoreland Emmett Fostoria
Havensville.. Onaga Westmoreland Emmett Fostoria
34 188 .257 387 392
DISTRICT N O . 66.
Washington Linn Haddam Greenleaf.
Frontier Fraternal Dirigo Greenleaf
104 170 ...226 232
DISTRICT N O . 67.
Concordia Clyde Jamestown Miltonvale
St. John's 113 Prairie Queen....176 Jamestown 227 Miltonvale 242
72.
Silver Lake Lake 50 St. Marys Pottawatomie.... 52 Topeka (North)....Golden Rule 90 Ross ville Hesperian Ill Delia DeUa 419 Alma Eskridge Harveyville
DISTRICT N O .
Sublette Hugoton Elkhart Ulysses Johnson Satan ta
73.
.....Alma Eminence Harveyville 74.
Santa Fe.. Hugoton.. Elkhart.... Ulysses.... Johnson Satan ta DISTRICT No.
161 205 421 .312 ..406 .422 ..435 441 446
75.
Medicine Lodge ....Delta 77 Lake City Medicine Valley260 Hazelton Charity 263 Kiowa Cosmos ...278 DISTRICT No.
Kansas City Kansas City •Overland Park Turner
76.
..Ben Hur 322 Rosedale 333 Overland Park..436 Turner 425
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Whitewater
Feb. Feb. Feb. Feb. Feb. Feb. Feb. Feb. Feb. Feb.
28, 1924 2. 4 4 1 26, 1925 3 2 2 26, 1925 3 4 4 26, 1925 26, 1925....... 4 4 4 26, 1925 22 21 19 26, 1925 6 2 2 26, 1925 7 3 4 25, 1926 3 3 1 24, 1927 . . 2 2: 1 1 1
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HARVEY O. DAVIS,
Lower:
STANFORD M. SMART,
LECTU RER. LECTURER.
240
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
COMPLETE SUMMARY FOR 1927.
Number of lodges working under charter, 1927 Number of lodges chartered
448 0
Number of charters revoked, Shawnee No. 54
448 1
Number of lodges working under charter, 1928
447
Number members December 31, 1926
82,165
Increase. Number Number Number Number Number Number Number
initiated passed raised admitted restored omitted last report members lodge U. D
Number Number Number Number Number
Decrease. dimitted died : suspended expelled members Brainerd Lodge No. 280
Net gain Number members December 31, 1927;
3,159 2,843 2,976 859 159 190 32=4,216
947. 992 929 25 87=2,980 1,236 83,401
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
241
EXPELLED, 1927. Washington Lodge No. 5.—JOHN E . HENDERSON, Sept. 19. Union Lodge No. 7.—ALEXANDER DRAVO, Sept. 1. Neosho Lodge No. 27.—WINFRBD D . BANKSTON, Feb. 15. Marysville Lodge No. 91.—EMIL A. HOHN, Aug. 3, 1926; EDGAR R . FULTON, April 27. Cedar Lodge No. 103.—CHARLES T . HIGBY, Feb. 2. Parsons Lodge No. 117.—EARLB E . BARKER, Nov. 28; FRED E . GARRISON, Nov. 28. Crescent Lodge No. 133.—PERCY H . RICHMOND, July 26; WILLIAM M. STRYKER, July 26. Ellsworth Lodge No. 146.—FRANKLIN CLARENCE SMITH, Jan. 17. Haven Lodge No. 157.—ULLMAN RICHMOND, Sept. 6. Prairie Queen Lodge No. 176.—CALVIN LBROY SIMMONS, March 27. Lenora Lodge No. 181.—WOODIE L . TURNER, Feb. 24. Tyrian Lodge No. 246.—CHARLES S. FINELLO, April 4. Glasco Lodge No. 292.—WILLIAM H . SUTTON, July 20. Samaria Lodge No. 298.—ViT HANZLICEK, J R . , Feb. 2; HERMAN C . WALTER, Dec. 7. Albert Pike Lodge No. 303.—ARTHUR H . NOSSAMAN, March 9; JOHN N. RICHARDSON, March 9. Virginia Lodge No. 315.—JESSE A. MOORE, Jan. 14, 1926. Ben Hur Lodge No. 322.—WILLIAM E . HOBFER, Aug. 25. Rosedale Lodge No. 333.—ALLBN E . BELCHER, April 27; CHARLES R . ROSS, April 27. Parker Lodge No. 341.—LESTER C . BROWNBACK, Dec. 17.
SUSPENDED FOR UNMASONIC CONDUCT, 1927. Union Lodge No. 7.—FRANK HOPKINS, E . A., Sept. 1. Fortitude Lodge No. 107.—STANLEY W . BROWN, NOV. 22. Kaw Lodge No. 272.—JAMBS H . MCCAULBY, Aug. 9.
Baxter Springs
Palmyra.. SaltviUe.. Baxter
Ben F. Larner 1st and 3d Tuesday Monday on or before®.... William P. Knauer EarlB. Weiberg 1st and 3d Monday
Barnard
Baldwin
Douglas Lincoln Cherokee...,
23 59 71
William K. Phillips Frank C.Mills Arthur E. Bates James K. McCIure *Leo L. Kline Charles T. Scott Maurice Hardenbrook Paul E. Thompson Ralph F. Russell JakeE. Bamesberger.., Edgar W. Fox William A. Harris Henry EStehle John W, Rankin Steve E. Matties Joe Morozzo Francis M. Mead George A. Blakcslec Leslie W. Long Eugene J. Goulden John T, Bearley •Clarence R. Baxter Ernest C. Sidles Oscar W. Olson
1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday... 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Tuesday 2d and 4th Tuesday 1st and 3d Friday 1st and 3d Friday 1st,and 3d Saturday,, Tuesday on or bef. ® 1st Monday 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Wednesday 1st and 3d Monday 2d and 4th Monday 2d and 4th Thursday .. 1st and 3d Monday 2d and 4th Monday 1st and 3d Thursday.... 1st and 3d Wednesday Tuesday before® 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Friday
Diclcinson... Rice Lyon Wabaunsee Norton Labette Wabaunsee Osborne Wilson Lyon....'. Harper Crawford... Sumner Cowley Reno Crawford..., Clark Atchison Atchison Harper Rawlins Shawnee Butler Marshall
Benevolent,.,. Alden Allen Alma Naphtali Altamont Alta Vista Occidental,.,. Altoona Americus Anthony Arcadia Argonia Crescent... Cable Arma Ashland Washington.. Active Attica Atwood Auburn Mystic Tie.... Axtell
Abilene Alden AUen Alma Almena Altamont Alta Vista Alton Altoona Americus Anthony Arcadia Argonia Arkansas City., Arlington Arma Ashland Atchison Atchison Attica Atwood Auburn Augusta Axtell
Masters.
98 308 335 161 310 69 357 207 118 109 200 329 285 133 299 408 277 5 158 262 164 32 74 234
Stated Communications.
County.
Name of Lodge.
Location.
No.\
Hewit Taylor. Thomas E. McCurry. Floyd L. Bumgarner.
Roy G. Shearer. Raymond J. Engel. Frank J. St. Bennett. Jerry B. Fields. Owen Dragt. Clarence H. Kessler. John M. Hyde. Harry R. Markham. Charles N. Converse. fNova H. Brown. Lewis G. Jennings. Michael Gutman. William R. Hanna. Harry L. Burnett. Arthur B. Eliot. John Short. Jerome C. Berrymaii. AVillianiM. Thistle. Werner B. Levin. ISIarccIIus AV. Sliort. Silas R. Horton. Carl H. Moore. Edwin C. McOray. William M. Berry.
Secretaries.
NAMES OF LODGES, MASTERS AND SECRETARIES FOR THE YEAR^NDING DECEMBER 31,1928.
o
o
13
103 416
355 89
203 324 197 70 125
209 376 379 291 233 429 79 66 178 182
366 268
365
169 368
259 439 173 129 145 440 403 180 286
Mt. Vernon
Bennington
Beloit
Bennington Blue Mound Blue Eaplds Bluff City Marshall
Doniphan
Republic
2d and 4th Monday
Carbondale Cawker City Cedar Vale
Caldwell
Bur dick Burlingame
Buffalo Bunker Hill
Clinton
Grand View . Buffalo
1st and 3d Monday
Mitchell Chautauqua.. 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Monday
Montgomery.. McPherson,... 1st and 3d Tuesday
1st and 3d Thursday
Leavenworth.. 1st and 3d Saturday Bonner Springs.. Bonner Springs.. Wyandotte .... 1st and 3d Monday
Blue Eaplds Stohrville
Belle Plaine
Bello Plaine
Marshall
Clarence Peck Wiley M. Johnson John J. Ehman Everett C. Jackson Henry Boeskool Dougald T. Crabtree Charles F. McGhee Dean M.<!arson Chester B. Shellman
Fred B. Larkin Harold P. Harvey Elmer L. Neptune Oliver E. Rhoades Frank A. Slack *Grover L. Franklin Ebner Evans Carl C. Neilson Howard K. McLaughlin Edward Dolen Aubrey T. Stewart *George W. Hobbs Huston E. Boaz Clarence A. Hamilton William G. Hines Guy E. Warner *Elijah L. Follmer Sherman C. McKown Charles W. Ryan E. David Linde James L. Miller *MarkN. Lathrop Ernest G. Royer Claud W. McDavitt Robert Clark. Charles E. Flautt. Charles V. Ev.ans. Richard F. Kaff. Claude W. Simpson. Edgar J. Clark. Howard F. Hightower. Guy S. Jeflers. WllUam H. Powell.
Charles A. Harry. James W. Wasson. William A. Crews. Harry C. Sleeper. Guy W. Brown. James M. Clementson. Harry L. Orendorff. George F. Watts. Thomas E. Puller. William W. Kendall. Albert D. Sparr. fMiles B. Baxter. William L. Burnam. Charles Meyer. Albert E. Halsey. Joseph F. McCarty. Alfred C. Stryker. Walter E. Hoke. Charles A Truesdell Hoyt B. Remy. tCharles E. Scott. William M. Scott. Vesalius Davis. John Swanson.
Co
o
o t)
280 247 258 119 137 73 283 20 424 134 273 122 411 176 394 418 102 306 295 212 100 113 269 316 13 80 36 57
No.
2d and 4th Thursday.... 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Tuesday 2d and 4th Tuesday 1st and 3d Monday 3d Thursday... 2d and 4th Wednesday.. 2d and 4th Monday
Dickinson , . Bice Sedgwiclc Crawford Montgomery..
Clay.... Sedgwiclc Clay
Stated Communicalions.
County.
William Scliweisberger
Allen G. Chaplin Joseph 0. Hill
Roy H. Shaw
Warren G. McFarland
Masters.
Wilson
1st and 3d Wednesday .. Everett W. Hull
2d and 4tli Tuesday 1st and 3d Saturday
1st and 3d Wednesday .. 2d and 4th Saturday 1st and 3d Thursday Prairie Queen.... Cloud.. *CarI F. Hertlein Pratt 1st and 3d Monday 2d and 4th Monday Codell... Montgomery.. 1st and 3d Wednesday .. •William Guliey St. Tliomas Comanche . . Olive Brancli 1st and 3d Tuesday Cherokee Edward W. Thompson 1st and 3d Monday Cloud
Claflin Clay Center Unity . Clifton ..
Name of Lodge.
Cotton'd Falls . Council Grove . Council Grove .
Conway Springs
Codell
Clay Center
Location,
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Continued.
Hops Willoughby.
William B. Penny.
Obadiah R. Stilwell.
Arthur E. Homey. William R. Powell. tAlmon M. Baker. Ray H. Crumly.
John T. Reutter. Merl J. Watson. Floyd I. Shoaf. George G. GrlfBn. Edward J. McQuillen. Nathan C. Smltli.
Ira M. Hassler. William G. Haxton. William C. Price. Hugh H, Barr.
Secretaries.
*^
Cn O
o
>^
0
to o o
12 413
45 127 345 48 97 350 132 126 422 217 297 146 387
432 375 419 202 372 40 92 156 279 222 31 151 138 204 374
362 427
Elgin Elk City
. .
St. Bernard
Dodge City
Elkhart
Dwlght
Delia
Delia
Cunningham
Leavenworth.. Saturday on or bef. ®=.... Monday on or before ®.. 1st and 3d Tuesday Labette 1st and 3d Monday Atchison 1st and 3d Thursday Butler Chautauqua . 1st and 3d Wednesday . Montgomery. 2d and 4th Monday 1st and 3d Friday Elk 1st and 3d Monday Morton Last Wednesday 1st and 3d Friday EUis 1st and 3d Monday Ellsworth Pottawatomie 1st and 3d Saturday 1st and 3d Friday 1st and 3d Thursday
Doniphan Butler 1st and 3d Friday 1st and 3d Thursday
2d and 4th Wednesday. 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Wednesday .. 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Friday Saturday on or before ® 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Friday Saturday on or before ® 1st and 3d Saturday
Kearny..;. Morris Jackson Ottawa Jackson
Bourbon Cowley
1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Thursday
Republic Kingman
T. Edward Stafford. Roy 15. Huffman. Willis A. Chanoy. Jolin D. Harkness. Howard E. Houck. Harry P. Dean. Clarence E. McClarren. Charles B. Wiard. George A. Van Dyke. Ralph L. Daniel. Charles W. Monroe. Richard W. Evans. Loid Z. Kirby. Thomas M. Downey. Harry F. Boyer. Charles B. Bates. John E. Olson. Lloyd Coberly. Perry E. Wolfley. Clarence E. Kallenberger. Frank M. Marsh. Leon L. Cousland. John V. Prallck. Daniel S. Otey. Newton Hill. Raymond E. Drewry. Orville A. Keeler. Arthur Fauteux. Charles D. Mcllree. Clarke S. Pool. tCharles W. Cleaver. ItElisworth V. Bryan.
•Charles J. Iloudek... William A. Bradley. Willis E. Benjamin *Marvln L. Hodson Charles E. Mitchell Alva S. Adams Silas W. Peterson *Leo S. Large '. •Clifford A. Redman Cass A. Bolack •Edward D. Bradstreet.. Tom Stauth •Richard G. Willmeth... Neil B. Anthony •Lester W. Moran James O. Harrison Henry W. Shafer •Alber F. Robinson... Arthur E. Roberts James I. Wester •Ernest Wilde Walter E. Bertram... Francis E. Barnett... George H. Taggart... •Harry L. Neeiand Harry W. Roberts Bruno J. Dick Charles A. Baugher., Leo R. McKinney... Russell W. Cox Earl R. Weimer Clarence J. Lund
Co to
o >^ t^ ;^
Q
o b
b
ta
183
65 108
194
389 210
No.
Garden City
Ft. Leavenworth
Eskridge
Erie .. .
Location
Gaylord
Constellation
Fidelity
Erie
Name of Lodge.
•Elmer F. Modin Oliver L. Dalton Herman Tunnell 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Wednesday .. George A. Verchere Asa E. Ruby.....'. William H. Cordes 1st and 3d Thursday
Bourbon Anderson Smith
Dwight F. Greenfield
Saturday on or before®.. *Roy P. Santner
1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday
Cherokee 1st and 3d Wednesday .. George R. McCuUagh McPlierson .... 2d Thursday
Pottawatomie 2d and 4th Saturday
Dickinson
Jesse R. Bender. Harry H. Ingalls. Frank H. Laberteaux. James A. Williams. Joseph B. Million. John H. Vaughn. Harmon M. Martin.
Harry L. Woods.
William E. Bogart. Ora S. Wood. James C. Riggs. tLee Smith. David A. Nywall. William A. Weikamp. Fred Roy Alford. tRay S. Pauley. Philip J. Bigham. Emll Badraun. Ira M. Fink.
Secretaries.
Greenwood .... 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Charles R. Donart Crawford Tuesday on or before ®.. *Wmiara R. Ice *Ernest Thornton 2d and 4th Saturday 1st and 3d Monday Edward D. Thurman Leavenwortli.. 1st and 3d Thursday
Masters.
William 0 . Strain. Daniel P. Mills. Earl Vaughn. Lee J. WWte. Fred J. Papenhausen. Ernest J. Thomas.
Stated Communications.
Edward H. Kuster 2d and 4th Monday 2d and 4th Wednesday.. 2d and 4th Tuesday Edward Grauerholz William Montgomery Wabaunsee .... 1st and 3d Monday William W. Carter Jacob I. McMickell Greenwood ....
County.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Continued.
t1
o
Co
n
b
to o
1^
Genesed Glrard Glasco Glen Elder.... Go£f Goodland Gove Gralnfleld Great Bend.. Greeley Green Groenleaf Greensburg.. Grenola Gridley Grinnell Gypsum
Haddam Halstead Hamilton Hamlin Harper Hartford Harvey ville.. Haven Havens ville.. Haviland Hays Hazelton Hepler Herington.... Hiattville Hiawatha
361 93 292 294 430 321 302 381 15 211 296 232 293 248 314 448 328
226 46 301 185 206 193 421 208 34 409 195 263 398 307 216 35
John F. Wiggins. Larkin B. Davidson. Sophus Nutland. Walter E. Keef. Arley H. Fitzwater. Camillo W. Jupe. Lawrence O. Maxwell. Valle L. Robertson. Clarence F. Heaton. Frank S. Gerhold. Charles J. Reboul. Allen M. Beverly. Carl Kaucher. Homer C. Hunt. David D. Stuart. Earl W. Davis. J. Willis Manon. John J. Muth. Paul H. Huebert. Richard L. Mills. Lawrence E. Shum. Horace A. Lee. Charles R. Baysinger. Charles O. Hawks. H. Grant Astle. Walter C. Richardson. Adrian T. McNutt. Charles W, Reeder. Lawrence E. Maddox. Jasper N. Chambers. Fred M. Thompson. Emory B. Armstrong. Luther L. Hassenpflug.
2d and 4th Wednesday.. Clarence E. Barnum Roy G. Messenger 1st Wednesday 1st and 3d Wednesday . Merton Fletcher Richard L. Moore 1st and 3d Thursday William H. Fund 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Leonard A. Thompson. Claude Thomas 1st and 3d Tuesday *Merritt Yale 1st and 3d Tuesday George C. Turner 2d and 4th Friday Monday on or before®.. George E. Mahafly....;.. 1st and 3d Wednesday .. *Karl Van Sickle isl and 3d Wednesday .. Max L. Steele Harold M. Beck 1st and 3d Friday 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Joseph J. Marshall Raymond J. Swltzer 2d and 4th Friday Arthur M. Weir 1st and 3d Monday Jonathan Schmitter 1st and 3d Tuesday Ray W McKenzie 2d and 4th Tuesday John J. Mierau 1st and 3d Thursday Phil D. Piatt 1st and 3d Thursday 2d and 4th Wednesday. Daniel Pfeiffer 1st and 3d Wednesday . *Ivan O. Berg Marlus J. Lalonette... 1st and 3d Friday *Leo L. Shaw 1st and 3d Friday Thursday on or before ® •John R. Debruler John Harris 1st and 3d Tuesday Phillip H. Phillips 1st and 3d Tuesday Clifford R. Morrison.. 1st Monday John A. Circle 1st and 3d Tuesday Monday on or bef. ®" . John A. Attkisson 1st and 3d Wednesday ..] James Tripp *Earl J. Robinson 2d and 4th Saturday. William F. Harris 1st Tuesday
Rice Crawford Cloud Mitchell Nemaha Sherman Gove Gove Barton Anderson Clay Washington.. Kiowa Elk Coffey Gove Saline Washington Harvey Greenwood Brown Harper Lyon Wabaunsee.... Reno Pottawatomie Kiowa ElUs Barber Crawford Dickinson Bourbon. Brown
Goodland Gove City... Gralnfleld Great Bend. Greeley Highland Groenleaf Kiowa Canopy Hebron Grinnell Gypsum City .
Dirigo Halstead Hamilton Hamlin Harper Hartford Harvey ville.. Friendship... Havensville.. Haviland Hays Charity Hepler Kansas HiattvlUe Hiawatha
Goft
Genes6o Glrard Glasco Glen Elder....
is;
o
b
S3
Junction City....
Kanorado
44;i
Independence ...
Hutchinson
Holton Holyrood
Highland Hill City
Location.
227 360 282 11 441 7
107 :i8 112
288 H52 326 155 348 327 406 29 72 140 445
1 281 331 42
No
Kanorado
Blue Valley ,
Hutchinson
Pacific
Hoyt
Holyrood Cyrus
MUtbrook
Name of Lodge
Sherman
Geary
Hodgeman
Cloud
Masters.
.Icsse M. Harmon
and 3d Tuesday and 3d Monday and 3d Monday and 3d Wednesday ,. Elnathan B. Gray and 3d Thursday Garrelt C. Millsap and 3d Thursday
1st and 3d Tuesday
1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st
.1. Frank AVclls
1st and 3d Monday 2d and 4th Thursday... i s t and 3d Thursday Edgar 0 . Clark ... 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Tuesday *AVillard E. Ferrell • 1st and 3d Wednesday.. Frank R. Reid ... 1st and 3d Tuesday Harlev C. Humphrey 2d and 4th Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday . .)eir Williams 2d and 4th Tuesday l.st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Monday Russell H. Miller 1st and 3d Thursday William K. Eaglen 1st and 3d Monday ,.
Stated Communications
Montgomery.. 2d and 4th Tuesday Allen 1st and 3d Tuesday 2d and 4th Saturday Marshall
Stevens Allen
Ellsworth Dickinson Greeley Brown Elk
Doniphan Graham
County.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Continued.
Otto Sworts.
William R. AiLsdcll. Everett J. Bainter. Walter E'. Smith. Powell G. Price. Wesley D. Rorick. Charles H. Gove,
.lames M. .lacoby. ArtliiM' A. Moshor. John F. Hoyt.
William H. Hargis. Harold J. Thompson. Ralph B. Call. Ora Morgan. Joseph M. Wanasek. H. Lambert Hibbs. Charles E. Landis. Ralph D. Hill. Holly M. Miller. Allyn S. Chandler. Alexander l^ec. William Ncathery. Guy O. Bu,i;kirk. Oliver M. Anderson. Odie L. Batemaii. Otto Painter.
Secretaries.
o
o
o p
lb. 00
to
167 401 6 9 2 10 68 287 152 420 135 181
49
330 61 325 . 260 289 339
La Crosso La Cygne La Harpe Lake City liakin Lane Lansing Lamed Latham Lawrence Lawrence Leavenworth.. Leavenworth.. Leavenworth.. Lebanon Lebo Lecompton Lenexa Lenora
3 Kansas City . 271 Kansas City . 272 Kansas City . 322 Kansas City . 333 Kansas City. 369 Kansas City . 438 Kansas City , 405 Kensington... 338 Kincaid 230 Kingman 447 Kingsdown... 179 Kinsley 278 Kiowa 175 Kirwin
•Charles W. Anderson. •Harold N. Nichols *Carl G. Ralston •James A. McCanless... •Thomas M. Swinney... •George W. Jewell George T. Wright Jerome H. Scott Duncan R. Edwards... •William H. McClure... Velma S. Haley •Eugene H. Renfro Clarence C. Pence Archie R. Cogswell Rodney Torrey Earl L. Vance Alpha A. Hokleman Russell B. Lake Barclay B. Willoughby.. David A. Walter Thomas J. Boone Edwin E. Jacobs Art Brannon John J. Kistler Samuel Hurwitz Charles R. Moore Dewitt T. Wright Dietrich A. Hashagen... Orrin W. Story Gwllym R. Evans George F. Bahnmaier... •Alta B. Davis Charles E. Personett
1st and 3d Friday 1st and 3d Thursday. 1st and 3d Thursday Every Thursday 1st and 3d Friday 1st and 3d Tuesday 2d and 4lh Wednesday. 2d and 4th Tuesday 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Wednesday . 2nd and 4th Monday... 2d and 4th Tuesday 2d and 4th Wednesday. 2d and 4th Friday 2d and 4th Thursday 1st and 3d Monday 1st, 3d and 5th Thurs. 2d Saturday 1st and 3d Tuesday 2d and 4th Thursday 1st and 3d Monday..... 1st and 3d Wednesdjiy . 2d and 4th Tuesday 2d Monday 2d Thursday 1st and 3d Monday 2d and 4th Thursday .. 1st and 3d Thursday.... 1st and 3d Wednesday 1st and 3d Friday 1st and 3d Thursday Saturday on or before ® t 2d and 4th Thursday....
Wyandotte . Wyandotte . Wyandotte . Wyandotte . Wyandotte . Wyandotte . Wyandotte . Smith Anderson Kingman Ford Edwards Barber Phillips
Rush Linn Allen Barber Kearny Franklin Leavenworth. Pawnee Butler Douglas Douglas Leavenworth. Leavenworth. Leavenworth. Smith Coffey Douglas Johnson Norton
Wyandotte Armourdale Kaw Ben Hur Rosedale R. E. Sherman. West Gate Kensington Kincaid Ninnescah Kingsdown Mt Morlah Cosmos Kirwin
La Crosse La Cygne.'. La Harpe Medicine Valley Emerald Lane Nine Mile Lamed Latham Lawrence Acacia Leavenworth... King Solomon Hiram Oak Lebo Lecompton Lenexa Lenora
Herman E. Schwartzkoi)!'. Pasha Ben Lcivy. James E. Garvey. James M. Williams. Francis L. Pierce. Marion McNutt. Charles L. Cherrie. Herbert L. Ames. Charles H. Cowles. Clarence E. Birch. Paul A, Lange. Charles E. Cart. Joseph J. Parker. Joseph P. Seymour. James L. Felton. Edward R. Evans. Frank J. Shirley. Percy L. Jones. Robert A. Richmond.
tJames E. Porter. tOrlo B. Durant. fArthur H. Strickland. tFrank McDougall. tWilliam E. Saunders. tFred H. Mertel. tClarendon Greenwood, Jr. Guy R. Currier. Harry C. McConnell. Clifford G. Miller. Arcliie L, Sisson. John E. Stowell. Robert T. Ishmael. John Garrett.
o
o o o
>, to
So
371 196 16 87 342 370 28 147
223 235 340 27 220 300 154 397 170 241 219 264 231 26 243 198 153 101 192
No.
Marlon
Maple City.., Maple HUl
Manhattan..
Long Island
Little River
Leonard vllle
Location.
Maple City Maple Hill Eldora
Euclid
Blue Hill
Long Island
Garfield
Name of Lodge.
Stated Communications.
2d and 4th Monday Stafford Greenwood .... 1st and 3d Tuesday , 1st and 3d Friday Riley 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Saturday on or bef.®= Wabaunsee.... 1st and 3d Thursday Saturday on or bef. ®">.... 1st Friday
Butler Riley Wichita Coffev Edwards
1st and 3d Saturday . 1st and 3d Wednesday 2d and 4th Monday 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Monday . 2d and 4th Thursday McPherson .... 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Washington.... 2d and 4th Tuesday Leavenworth.. Rice 2d and 4th Tuesday Phillips 2d and 4th Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday Phillips 1st and 3d Thursday Elk 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Thursday Rice
County.
George H, Nogle Robert M. Sallea
ClaudeE. Commons Wesley E. Taylor Herbert W. Batchelor
Frank L. Nichol Arthur D. Holllday Henry D. Plummer Frank W. Wilson Lawrence C. GUbreath Fred Good Fred C. Swisher William D. Smith
Archie T. Meinke
Harry L. Bridges Arthur J. Barrett Dennis L. Sheets.... David M. Elving
*Charles M. Nixon *Carl A.Toburen Lewis L. Wilson
Masters.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Continued.
Harvey B. Breneman. Evar M. Johnson. tPeter M. Bushong. Eugene C. Greene. tDana McGill. Howard Adams. Don C. Campbell. Howard S. Daniel.
Edward Storbeck. Patrick A. Dickerson.
Francis C. Troup. Baron O. Jordan. Paul J. Foster. George G. Tronjo. Thomas B. Dlnsmoor.
Arthur L. Marks. Roy H. Walker. Lloyd Mathes. George W. Schlatter. George W. Wells. Earl L. Smith; Ivan D. Lyon. George A. Nelson. Marvin A. Raven. tHoward W. Howsmon.
Secretaries.
o
O
Cn
to
8
•13 S3
Bean S. Lawrence.. Adolph W. Blecha.. Victor R. Parker.... George F. Hynds Clark I. Moore
1st and 3d Saturday 1st and 3d Monday 2d and 4th Wednesday. 1st and 3d Monday
Republic... Osborne... Wilson Woodson..
Narka Natoma.... Harmony.. Tuscan
Narka Natoma Neodesha Neosho Falls..
349 390 94 82
Ray A. Dressier Albert F. Hartwick Harvey B. Jones Henry O. Curtis *Lewls T. Cook Harry E. Archer Ralph W. Edmonds George N. Lonberger.... James A. Oilman James E. Woodward... Lester N. McNabb George L. Johnson James E. Yearout Willard J. Brown Owen b . Lott William A. Smith Louis H. Carvin William O. McKinley.. John L. Blazier Glen E. Faucett •Tohn Z. Kenney Walter P. Regler James J. Oden Homer B. Osborn Albert Cameron Joseph W. Cossell *Charles C. Moon
2d and 4th Tuesday 1st and 3d Tuesday 2d and. 4th Thursday 2d and 4th Tuesday 2d and 4th Monday 2d and 4th Wednesday. Thursday on or bef.®... 1st and 3d Friday 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st Thursday 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Friday 2d and 4th Wednesday. 2d and 4th Tuesday 2d and 4th Tuesday Saturday on or bef. ®=... 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Friday 1st and 3d Friday 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Wednesday . Wednesday on or bef.®= 2d and 4th Tuesday 1st and 3d Wednesday 1st and 3d Wednesday 2d and 4th Wednesday, 1st and 3d Thursday....
McPherson... Marshall Jackson Rush Crawford Rawlins Jefferson McPherson ... Meade Barber Osage Jefferson Sumner Cloud Ottawa Clark Elk Allen Graham Brown Linn McPherson ... Labette Sedgwick Crawford Kiowa Sumner Republic Atchison
Marquette Marysville Mayetta McCracken Temple McDonald Lyra ; McPherson Webb Delta Melvern.' Meriden Milan Mil ton vale Minneapolis.... Minnoola Moline Marmaton Morland Morrill Mound City .. Moundridge.... Landmark Mount Hope.. Mulberry Mullinville Mulvane Munden Muscotah
Marquette Marysville Mayetta McCracken McCune McDonald McLouth McPherson Meade Medicine Lodge Melvem Meriden Milan Mil ton vale Minneapolis Minneola Moline Moran ' Morland Morrill Mound City Moundrldge Mound Valley... Mount Hope Mulberry Mullinville Mulvane Munden Muscotah
353 91 393 58 237 383 256 172 275 77 22 .236 255 242 143 431 267 245 414 373 33 346 218 238 261 399 201 128 116
Albert Bever. Fayette E. Weldon. James A. Songer. Sheppard A. Williams.
Victor L. Krig. John I. Brandenburger Edson J. Lunger. John I. Edwards. Thomas R. Landes. Oscar A. Brown. Jesse F. Pyle. Edison F. Kubin. Ormond Hamilton. Ralph W, Lonker. Frank E. Jones. Wilbur N. Morrison. Eldon E. Dinkins. Martin L. Albertson. Edward W. Lenander. Walter S. Wright. Edmund L. Foulston. John J. Boman. Albert Kobler. Ray H. Mickey. Charles W. Kingsbury. Ivy B. Gray. Marvin O. Mayginnes. William A. McCormick. Homer B. Kirk. Abraham Peters. Theodore C. Conklin. George W. Strnad. William H. Comer.
to
i.
o
ts
o b o
t)
»
166
14
Overland Park.. Overland Park.. Sumner Oxford Oxford
OsawatomJe.,
Oketo Olathe
Clay
Kingman
Norton
1st and 3d Thursday Thursday on or before ® 2d and 4th Wednesday. 1st and 3d Thursday 2d and 4th Friday
2d and 4th Tuesday 2d Tliursday 2d and 4th Tuesday
Stated Communications.
Masters.
2d and 4th Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Monday
Marshall O. Swaim
1st and 3d Monday . 1st and 3d Wednesday .. 1st and 3d Tuesday Mountain Slope Oketo •Joseph E. AVilley 1st and 3d Monday Olattie 2d Thursday Pottawatomie 1st and 3d Wednesday .. 1st and 3d Wednesday .. 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Signal 1st and 3d Thursday Osage Valley 2d and 4th Thursday Osborne 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Thursday Glenn E. Williams 1st and 3d Friday Franklin
Oak Hill
Oak Hill
81
County.
Walnut Valley.... Polar Star ., Jackson New Albany
Mount Zion
Netawaka New Albany
Name of Lodge.
Nortonville
Location.
No.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Continued.
Alfred Owens.
James T. Ray. Cliarles N . Wooddell.
Secretaries.
o o
to
434 111 215 177
426
270
428 384
363 265
88
184 385 187 367
168
37
Walnut City Russell
.
Riley
Eiley
V e r d e t t e G. W r i g h t Albert S. H a i g h Cecil J. F u l t o n William L. H e s t a n d Jesse D . Sliriver Charles T. Miller *Fred Weston : Phillipsburg PhlUipsburg. . *George A. Stephenson.. W y a n d o t t e .... 2d and 4 t h S a t u r d a y Piper William E . Roberson.... 2d T h u r s d a y Clayton Geisinger 1st a n d 3d T h u r s d a y H e n r y S. T h o m a s 1st and 3d F r i d a y J a m e s C. Epley 1st a n d 3d T u e s d a y Max D. Roberts 2d and 4 t h T u e s d a y S a t u r d a y on or before®. W . Roger M a r t i n E a r l F . Hartley 1st a n d 3d S a t u r d a y Powhattan J o h n K. M a g r u d e r 2d a n d 4 t h M o n d a y Pratt James M . Barcus 1st and 3d T u e s d a y Pratt R o b Morris *Nels C. Peterson 2d and 4 t h T u e s d a y P r e t t y Prairie.... P r e t t y P r a i r i e . . . lesse J. E d m o n s t o n 1st a n d 3d T h u r s d a y Comanche F r e d M . Leonard.. J o h n E . Reed Clare T. Jones •Albert V. Schwartz.. Charles F . L a y t o n Harry E.Hanshaw... Lee E . Kasermann.... *Blaine Dodson Charles J. Ellis *Albert E . Anderson.. Aaron E . Stovall T h o m a s E . Gough.... Stephen C. Herrick..
1st and 3d T h u r s d a y 2d a n d 4 t h M o n d a y 1st and 3d Wednesday .. 1st and 3d T h u r s d a y 1st a n d 3d T h u r s d a y 1st and 3d M o n d a y 1st a n d 3d M o n d a y 1st a n d 3d W e d n e s d a y .. 1st and 3d T u e s d a y 1st a n d 3d F r i d a y 1st and 3d F r i d a y 2d a n d 4 t h W e d n e s d a y . . 1st and 3d Tuesday
1st and 3d S a t u r d a y . . . T u e s d a y on or before ® 2d a n d 4 t h M o n d a y 1st and 3d M o n d a y 1st a n d 3d T u e s d a y
| E a r l L. Barrett, tWilliam M . Hungerford. J a m e s W . Werts. William Shanks. tJames P. Haggard. J o s e p h A. M e y e r . Jesse A. P e t t e y . William H . Anderson. Clyde H . Cless. F r a n k U . Kershner. A r t h u r L. B o y d .
Charles E. Miller. Claude W . Roesch.
George M . Coplin. Charles E . Vail. Alfred R. Winter. H a r v e y R. Reed. H a r o l d H . Brindley. William E . Cain. Fred A. Kelly. W a r r e n V. Scott. William W . Beine. John H. Hiatt. E a r l T. Gillespie. Charles V. Porter. L e o n a r d L. Jones. J o s e p h M . Sui'ritte. Keever E . W h a r t o n . Oran L. Miller. Lawrence P . Millspaugh. Wesley C. S c h m i t t . Atlee M . E d m o n s t o n .
o
Doniphan Greenwood ....
Chautauqua..
Allen Cherokee Republic Scott Mitchell
County.
Spring Hill Stafford
Spring Hill Stafford Johnson Stafford' .. .
Twin Grove . Sharon Springs.. Sharon Springs.. Silver Lalce Sha^vneo Mitchell Smith Center .... Western Star Smith Soldier Soldier Solomon City .... Dickinson ...... South Haven Ford
Selden
Virginia
Savonburg
315 351 221 284 249 407 136 139 423 39 313 213 417 50 214 174 240 105 157 388 347 56 252 444
Scott City Scottsvllle
Saffordville
Name of Lodge.
Sabetha Saftordvllle
Location.
162 395 60
No.
2d and 4th Wednesday.. 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Wednesday .. 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Wednesday .. 2d and 4th Tuesday 2d and 4th Monday... 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday 2d Sat. and 4th Wed 2d and 4th Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Thursday, 1st and 3d Tuesday 2d and 4th Thursday 2d and 4th Tuesday 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Wednesday .. 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Thursday
Stated Communications.
Troy 0 . Wheeler. Cecil A. Snodgrass.
Myron F. Robbins. C. Fred Ijipko.
Charles N . Powler. Charles F. McDonald William G. Taylor.
Secretaries.
Elmer F. Lalicker *Corwin H. McMalian •Arthur H. Hufford Charles E. Kelly
Archie E. Tilton
Glenn H. Wagner.
Andrew M. Ludvickson... Charles H. Ferguson. Robert M. Donaldson Ray E. Galley. •Raymond R. Neiswender..
Earl E. Merriweather Harley E. Wilcox
Roy E. Dyer .
Edward T. Olson
Henry C. Pennington
Masters.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Continued.
o
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to
•13
Henri
Shawnee.
402 148
Grant Bourbon Neosho
Valley Center.... Valley Center.... Sedgwick VaUey Falls VaUey FaUs Marshall
T o p e k a (No.) .... Golden E u l e
Tonganoxie
H u g o H . Rauschelbach. H u l b e r t G. Lockard. James H. Hammitt. Bert L e v e t t . George M . Unger. J o h n J. Miller. E d w a r d M . Wagner. Stanley E . Raffety. F r a n k Brownlee. William E . P a t t o n . H a r v e y G. Lowrance. William H e y n e n . t G e o r g e W . McClelland. t E v a n Davis, t J a m e s H . Murrell. IfBurl J. Snow. E . Francis Armstrong. Napoleon L. Reed. Glenn I. H a c k n e y . Charles S, Wilson. Frederick R. F r a n k . Benjamin H . D u n b a r .
F r a n k E . Rose 1st a n d 3d W e d n e s d a y .. R a y I. Starr R. B u r t o n J o r d a n 1st a n d 3d M o n d a y A r t h u r Holvorson Rollin W . D u n a h u g h . . 1st and 3d T u e s d a y Corbin C. Kimes 2d a n d 4 t h M o n d a y H o m e r G. Scoggan 1st a n d 3d T h u r s d a y |*John A. Snodgrass 1st and 3d T h u r s d a y J o i m W . Coleman 1st a n d 3d T u e s d a y Charles R. Dollings 1st a n d 3d T h u r s d a y William A. W a l t W a l t e r G. Denholm.. • S c o t t E . Kelsey * L y m a n A. Corlis •Rudy F. Nash *B. H a r o l d Grofl J. H o w a r d Jones Chesley N . H a w k Louis Larson Joseph N . Hearn....:.. E r n e s t G. Walker •Charles W . Conn
Oscar W . Neil. A r t h u r S. ICeraus.
E u g e n e S. T a l c o t t . Virgil P . M u r r a y . J o s e p h H . Johnson.
•Charles W . Rickard 1st and 3d W e d n e s d a y .. E m l l O. G u t s c h Peter H. Hybskmann.. Louis G. Nichols R e n A. H i n s h a w
Richard H . Joyce. Milo Miller. J o h n A. E w e n .
2d a n d 4 t h Wednesday.. H a r r y H . Caldwell. S a t u r d a y on or before®.. J o h n P . Wells J o h n F . Dawson 1st a n d 3d T h u r s d a y
2d and 4 t h M o n d a y Leavenworth.. 1st Sat. and 3d T h u r s 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Shawnee 1st a n d 3d F r i d a y 2d and 4 t h T h u r s d a y , ., ,. 1st and 3d T h u r s d a y Shawnee 1st a n d 3d M o n d a y Woodson 1st a n d 3d T u e s d a y Butler 1st M o n . a n d 2d Sat. fol. Doniphan W y a n d o t t e .... 1st and 3d T h u r s d a y 1st and 3d S a t u r d a y M o n t g o m e r y . . 2d and 4 t h F r i d a y
Rice .-. Cheyenne Stafford Pottawatomie..'.. P o t t a w a t o m i e Books Newahcuba Haskell Summerfleld Summerfleld Sylvan Grovo .... Sylvan Grove .... Reno Sylvia Hamilton
St. Francis
364 21
115 239
358 386
55
121
51 90
149 190
52 189 312 354 359
171 404
SI
Co
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75 104 85 64 244 274 150 356 257 305 53 06 380 78 250 86 99 303 433 224 412 382 298 84
396 377 318
No.
Pottawatomie WasUngton...
Clay
County.
Doniphan CoHey Black Diamond.. Cherokee
Wakefield
Name of Lodge.
Wllsey Wilson Winchester
Wichita Wiillamsburg
White Church,... White City White Cloud Whiting Wichita Wichita Wyandotte.... Morris Doniphan
Ellsworth Jefferson
Sedgwick Wichita Sedgwick Albert Pike Bestor G. Brown Sedgwick Franklin Comanche
White City White Cloud Whiting
Wellsviiie Wellsville Westmoreland... Westmoreland.... Pottawatomie Anderson
Weir
Washington
Wakefield
Location.
Masters.
Secretaries.
1st and 3d Wednesday . Thursday on or before ® *James G. Sheldon
J. Harry Riley.
1st and 3d Tuesday Herbert W. Snyder. 1st Wednesday 1st and 3d Monday Monday on or before ®.. 1st and 3d Wednesday .. William E. Sinitli Herman C. Worschow 2d and 4th Thursday 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Saturday 1st and 3d Tuesday 2d and 4th Thursday 2d and 4th Monday 1st and 3d Monday Melvin 0. Hiil 2d and 4th Monday Tuesday on or before®.. •Charles W. Scharff Saturday on or bef.(2i=.... David C. ISbelmesser, Jr.... 1st and 3d Saturday •Leslie .J. Walker 2d and 4th Wednesday.. 1st and 3d Wednesday .. '1st and 3d Tuesdav 2d and 4th Tuesday 1st and 3d Monday 2d and 4th Wednesday.. *Vernette H. Cobb 1st and 3d Thursday Gerald L. Todd 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Thursday
Stated Communications.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Concluded.
o
o o
MASTJiKS. No. * Address. 3—527 Washington Blvd. 17—1334 Arter Ave. 25—Liberty, Neb. 31—Troy, ll. F. D. 4. . 32—Wakarusa. 40—Linwood, R. F. D. 45—Lowemont, R. F. D. 47—Bronson, R. P. D. 4. 48—Farmington. .W—N. Topeka, R. V. D. 0. 51—1420 Byron. 00—R. F. D. 3. 84—Mcl^outh. 80—1505 E. 3d St. 00—215 W. Laurent. 92—Ft. Scott, R. F. D. 5. 00—Bethel. 09—123 So. Main. 102—R. F. D. 1. 114—Cedar Point. 122—R. F. D. 3. 120—R. F. D. 1. 131—R. F. D, 1. 135—114 So. Elmwood, iCansas City, Mo.
Zenda Zenda •And two weeks thereafter.
378
GUead
Xenia
Windom Wlnfleld
Yates Center
Wl-dom Wlnfleld
144
47
276 110
2d and 4th Wednesday.. Fred C. Hiebsch
Kingman
MASTERS. A^>. *Address. 138—Auburn. 106—Winkler. 108—White City. 179—Otrerlc. 183—Harlan. 184—Glade. 201—Derby. 206—R. F. D. 208^Hutchlnson, R. F, D. 212—Welda. 216—R. F. D. 1. 223—Augusta, R. F. D. 2. 225—525 Home St. 230—R. F. D. 235—R. F. 15. 2. 237—R. F, D. 3. 271—027 Nebraska Ave. 272—2565 Hiawatha. 279—Sliields. 296—R. F. D. 1. 303—Scottish Rite Temple 305—Burlington, R. F. D. • 310—Calvert. 313—Denton. 322—1634 So. 22nd St.
Clare S. Lockwood.
Fred C. Cannady.
fAlbert A. Brooks.
Rudolph D. Slillling David O. Watts.
MASTERS. SECRETARIES. *Addiess. A'o. "^Address. 333—4320 Rainbow Blvd. 3—Masonic Temple. 334—Longford. 12—Masonic Temple. 330—Montrose. 16—Box 195. 344—Bala. 17—Masonic Temple. 347—Rago. 47—Bronson, B . F. D. 1. 352—Tribune. ' .50—Route 11. 359—Denmark 51—1400 Topeka Blvd. 362—Narka. 79—R. F. D. 1. 86—205 Caldwell-jMurdock BIdg. 364—Wichita. R. F. D. 1. 305—3907 Wesport Ave., Ivansas 90—1228 N. Harrison. City, Kansas 96—Bethel. 309—2508 N. 18th St. 99—Box 255. 375—Herlngton, R. 1. 102—Box 396. 379—R, F. D. 2 109—R. F. D. 2. 381—Orinneli.131—R. F. D. 3. 385—Tonganoxle, R. 5. 106—Garrison. 386—Jefferson. 225—^Masonic Temple, Room B. 388—Bellefont. 241—1234 New Hampshire St., 392—Olsburg. Lawrence. 394—Pratt, R. F. D. 2. 271—1100 Garfield Ave. 421—Eskridge, R. F D . 272—1825 Washington Blvd. 428—Castleton. 303—^Scottish Rite Temple. 433—P. O. Bo.x 944. 313—Denton. 434—Leon, R. 1. 322—1629 So. 29th St. 438—947 Sandusky. 333—3944 Hudson Road. 440—Troy, R. 5. 342—Dexter. 444—Stilwell. 305—Leavenworth, R. F. D. 3. 369—3021 No. 22nd St. 392—Westmoreland. 4l3—^Clmarron. 42 0—Princeton. 433—P. O. Box 903. 438—302 Huron Bldg. 2\0.
SPECIAL ADDRESSES.
1st and 3d Wednesday .. Wayne L. Scott
Saturday on or before®.. *James B. Perry
Woodson
Bourbon
Oliver E. Bailey
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W.F.March W. F. March W. F. March W. F. March W.F. March W.F.March W. F. March W: F. March W.F.March W.F.March W. F. March
Grand Treasurer.
•Deceased. tDimittcd and removed from this jurisdiction. j]Suspeiided. ;in 1879 the time for holding the Annual Communication was changed from October to February, and no Communication was held in 1S80. §.^nnual Communication postponed from February 18-19,1920, to March 17-lS, 1920, account of influenza. "Clayton Lehman elected, but declined to accept and Charles N. Fowler was appointed.
Topeka
Wichita
*\Vm. I. Stuart
1918 1919 §1920 1921 1922 1923 1924 1925 1926 1927 1928
Master. Deputy Gr. Master. Gr. Senior Warden. Gr. Junior Warden.
*Hugh P. Farrelly... . Ben S. Paulen Ben S. Paulen *Hueh P. Farrelly *John A. Ferrell Richard E. Bird Richard E. Bird Elmer F. Strain Elmer F. Strain. Richard E. Bird Charles, A. Loucks John W. Neilson Charles A. Loucks.... John W. Neilson "Charles N. Fowler.... Charles A. Loucks.... Charles N. Fowler.... Ferris M.Hill John W. Neilson. . . Charles N. Fowler.... George F. Beezley.... Charles N. Fowler.... Ferris M. Hill George F. Beezley.... JayB. Kirk Ferris M. Hill George F. Beezley.... Jav B. Kirk John M. Kinkel
M:.W:.Gr.
Dale. Place of Meeting.
ELECTIVE GRAND OFFICERS FROM ORGANIZATION TO PRESENT TIME—Concluded.
Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson. Albert K. Wilson.
Grand Secretary.
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GRAND
1927-2S.
LODGE,
OF
KANSAS.
261
ALPHABETICAL LIST OF LODGES. Name. Acacia Active Adams Advance Albert Pike Alden Allen Alma Alpha Altamont Alta Vista Altoona Americus.. Anchor Anthem Anthony Antiquity Apollo Arcadia Arcana Argonia Arma Armourdale Ashland Ashlar Attica Atwood Auburn Avon Axtell
No. 9 158 63 114 303 308 335 161 282 69 357 118 109 224 284 200 280 297 329 31 285 408 271 277 344 262 164 32 305 234
Barney 279 Baxter 71 Beattie 259 Beaumont 439 Belle Plaine 173 Belleville 129 Bendena 440 Benedict 403 Benevolent 98 Ben Hur 322 Bennington 180 Bestor G. Brown..433 Beulah 291 Black Diamond....274 Blue Hill 198 Blue Kapids 169 Blue Valley 112 Bollng 365 Bonner Springs ....366 Bourbon 268 Brookville 209 Buffalo 379 Burdick 429 Burlington 66 Burr Oak 178 Burrton 182 Cable Caney Canopy Canton Carbondale Carson Cawker City Cedar Center Charity Chase Chautauqua Cherokee Cherryvale Ohetopa
299 324 248 197 70 132 125 103 147 263 247 355 119 137 73
Location. Lawrence. Atchison. Oswego. Florence. Wichita. Alden. Allen. Alma. Jetmore. Altamont. Alta Vista. Altoona. Americus. Williamsburg. Scott City. Anthony. Chapman. Ellis. Arcadia. Doniphan. Argonia. Arma. Kansas City. Ashland. Riley. Attica. Atwood. Auburn. Westphalia. Axtell. DightoUi Baxter Springs. Beattie. Beaumont. Belle Plaine. Belleville. Bendena. Benedict. A bilene. Kansas City. Bennington. Wichita. Bunker Hill. Weir. Lucas. Blue Rapids. Irving. Boling. Bonner Springs. Bronson. Brookville. Buffalo. Burdick. Burlington. Burr Oak. Burrton. Arlington. . Caney. Grenola. Canton. Carbondale. Elk City. Cawker City. Chanute. Marion. Hazelton. Chase. Cedar Vale. Cherokee. Cherryvale. Chetopa.
Name. No. Circleville 20 Claflin 424 Clay Center 134 Clifton 122 Climax 411 Clinton 233 Coats 394 Codell 418 Comanche 295 Constellation 95 CooHdge 316 Corinthian 79 Corner Stone 219 Cosmos 278 Council Grove 36 Coyville 57 Crescent 133 Cuba 362 Cunningham 427 Cyrus 288 Deerfleld 432 Delavan 375 Delaware 96 Doha..... 419 Delphian 44 Delphos 202 Delta 77 Denison 372 De Soto 40 Devon 92 Dexter '. 156 Dirigo .• 226 Doric 83 Douglass 151 Dover 138 Downs 204 Dwight 374 Easton 45 Edna 345 Eldora 28 Elkhart 422 ElUnwood 217 Ellsworth 146 Emerald 289 Eminence 205 Emmett 387 Emporia 12 Ensign •. 413 Enterprise 437 Equity 131 Erie 76 Euclid 101 Eureka 88 Excelsior 115 Fargo 300 Farmers 166 Fidelity 106 Formoso 336 Fortitude 107. Fostoria 392 Frankfort 67 Fraternal 170 Frederick 337 Freeport 389 Friendship 208 Frontier ......104 Fulton 210 Galena 194 Galva 251 Gardner 65 Garfield 235
Location. Circleville. Claflin. Clay Center. Clifton. Climax. Burden. Coats. Codell. Coldwater. Fredonla. Coolldge. Biu'Ungame. Little River. Kiowa. Council Grove. Coyville. Arkansas City. Cuba. Cunningham. Hope. Deerfleld. Delavan. White Church. Delia. Garnett. Delphos. Medicine Lodge. Denison. De Soto. Devon. Dexter. Haddam. Eudora. Douglass. Dover. Downs. Dwight.. Easton. Edna. Mapleton. Elkhart. ElUnwood. Ellsworth. Lakin. Eskridge. Emmett. Emporia. Ensign. Enterprise. Fontana. Erie. Lyndon. Pleasanton. Uniontown. Liberal. Randolph. Eureka. Formoso. Independence. Fostoria. Frankfort. Linn. Frederick. Freeport. Haven. Washington. Fulton. Galena. Galva. Gardner. Leonard vllle.
PROCEEDINGS
262 Name. Gaylord Geneseo Gllead Glrard Glasco Glen Elder Godfrey Gofl Golden Kule Goodland Gove City Gralnfleld Grand View Great Bend. Greeley Greenleaf Greenwood GrinneU Gypsum City Halcyon Halstead Hamilton HamUn Hancock Harmony Harper Hartford HarveyvIUe Haven HavensvlUe Haviland Hays Hebron Henri Hepler.: Hesperian HlattvlUe Hiawatha Highland Hiram Holsington Holton Holyrood Home Hope Horace Horton Hoxle Hoyt Hugoton Huron Hutcliinson Ionic lola Jamestown JeHerson Jennings Jewell Johnson Joppa Kansas Kanorado Kaw Kensington Keystone Kickapoo Kilwinning Klncald King David King Solomon Kingsdown Kiowa Kirwin LaCrosse
No. 183 361 144 93 292 294 124 430 90 321 302 381 376 15 211 232 163 448 328
Location. Gaylord. Geneseo. Yates Center. Glrard. Glasco. Glen Elder. Farllngton. Goff. North Topeka. Goodland. Gove. Gralnfleld. Bucklin. Great Bend. Greeley. Greenleaf. Fall River. Grinnell. Gypsum.
120 Peabody. 46 Halstead. 301 Hamilton. 185 Hamlin. 311 Ft. Leavenworth. 94 Neodesha. 206 Harper. 193 Hartford. 421 HarveyvIUe. 157 South Haven. 34 Havensville. 409 Haviland. 195 Hays. 314 Gridley. 190 Tonganoxle. 398 Hepler. I l l Rossville. 216 HlattvlUe. 35 Hia\vatha. 296 Green. 68 Leavenworth. 331 Holsington. 42 Hoiton. 343 Holyrood. 89 Centralia. 155 Howard. 352 Horace. 326 Horton. 348 Hoxie. 327 Hoyt. ...406 Hugoton. 72 Huron. 445 Hutchinson. 254 St. John. 38 Ida. 227 Jamestown. 84 Winchester. 360 Jennings. 11 Jewell. 441 Johnson. 223 Leon. 307 Herington. 443 Kanorado. 272 Kansas City. 405 Kensington. 102 Coffey\nlle. 4 Potter. 265 Pratt. 338 Kincaid. 416 Ohanute. 10 Leavenworth. 447 Kingsdown. 293 Greensburg. 175 Kirwin. 330 LaCrosse.
OF THE Name. LaCygne Lafayette LaHarpe Lake Landmark Lane Lamed Latham Lawrence Leavenworth Lebanon Lebo Lecompton Lenexa Lenora Leotl Lewis Lincoln Llndsborg Lin wood Logan Long Island Longton Lotus Luray Lyra
February, No. 61 16 325 50 218 339 167 401 6 2 221 152 420 135 181 340 220 154 397 241 .....264 231 26 286 153 256
Mackey 48 Macksville 371 Madison 190 Mankato 87 Maple City 342 Maple HiU 370 Marmaton 245 Marquette 353 Marysville 91 Mayetta 393 McCracken 58 McDonald 383 McKinley , 41 McPherson 172 Medicine Valley....260 Melody 400 Melvern 22 Memphis 108 Meriden 236 Meridian 126 Milan 255 Millbrook 281 MUtonvale 242 Minneapolis 143 Minneola 431 Mistletoe 269 Moline 267 Morland 414 MorriU 373 Morton 258 Mound City 33 Moundridge 346 Mountain Slope..186 Mount Hope 238 Mount Moriah 179 Mount Vernon 145 Mount Zion 266 Mulberry 261 MuUinville... 39& Mulvane 201 Munden 128 Muscotah 116 Mystic Tie 74 Naphtali Narka Natoraa Nemaha Neosho Newahcuba New Albany
310 349 390 13 27 189 81
Location. LaCygne. Manhattan. LaHarpe. Silver Lake. Mound Valley. Lane. Lamed. Latham. Lawrence. Leavenworth. Scandla. Lebo. Lecompton. Lenexa. Lenora. Leoti. Lewis. Lincoln. Llndsborg. Linwood. Logan. Long Island. Longton. Blue Mound. Luray. McLouth. Effingham. Macksville. Madison. Mankato. Maple City. Maple HiU. Moran. Marquette. Marysville. Mayetta. McCracken. McDonald. Pomona. McPherson. Lake City. Ottawa. Melvern. Garland.. Meriden. Elk Falls. Milan. Hill City. MUtonvale. Minneapolis. Minneola. Conway Springs Moline. Morland. Morrill. Cheney. Mound City. Moundridge. Oberlin. Mount Hope. Kinsley. Beloit. Norton ville. Mulberry. Mullin ville. Mulvane. Munden. Muscotah. Augusta. Almena. Narka. Natoma. Corning. Le Roy. Stockton. New Albany.
1927-28. Name. No. Newton 142 Nlckerson 43 Nine Mile 49 Nlnnescah 230 Norcatur 317 Norton. 199 Norwich 319 Oak 287 Oak Hill 334 Oakley 253 Occidental 207 Oketo 25 Olathe 19 Olive 350 Olive Branch 212 Onaga 188 Oneida 323 Orient 51 Osage Valley 24 Oskaloosa 14 Ottawa 18 Overland Park 436 Oxford 165 Pacific 29 Palestine 127 Palmyra 23 Paola 37 Paradise 290 Parker 341 Parkerville 168 Parsons ....117 Patmos 97 Peace 243 Perry 415 Phillipsburg 184 Piper ....385 Pittsburg 187 Plains 367 Polar Star 130 Pottawatomie 52 Powhattan ...363 Prairie Queen 176 Preston 283 Pretty Prairie 428 Protection 384 Prudence 100 Quenemo 270 Quinter 410 Randall 304 Reno 140 Republic 123 Re.iford 442 Richmond 426 Ridgeway 62 Rising Sun 8 Robinson 159 Rob Morris 332 R. E. Sherman 369 Rosalia ....433 Bosedaie 333 Royal 192 Russell 177 Sabetha 162 Saflordville 395 Salem 228 Salina 60 Saltville 59 Samaria 298 Santa Fe 312 Saqui 160 Satan ta 446 Scammon 351 Scottsville 249 Scranton 407 Sedgwick 139 Selden 423 Seneca 39 Severance 313 Sharon Springs ....417
GRAND
LODGE OF
Location. Newton. Nickerson. Lansing. Kingman. Norcatur. Norton, Norwich. Lebanon. Oak Hill. Oakley. Alton. Oketo. Olathe. Elgin. Colony. Onaga. Oneida. Topeka. Osawatomie. Oskaloosa. Ottawa. Overland Park. Oxford. Humboldt. Edgerton. Baldwin. Paola. Plain ville. Parker. Parkerville. Parsons. El Dorado. Louisburg. Perry. Phillipsburg. Piper. Pittsburg. Plains.. Netawaka. St. Marys. Powhattan. Clyde. Cimarron. Pretty Prairie. Protection. Columbus. Quenemo. Quinter. Randall. Hutchinson. Republic. Rexford. Richmond. Overbrook. Fort Scott. Robinson. Preston. Kansas City. Rosalia. Kansas City. Lyons. Russell. Sabetha. Safford ville. Esbon. Salina. Barnard. Wilson. Sublette. Osborne. Satan ta. Scammon. Scottsville. Scranton. Sedgwick. Selden. Seneca. Severance. Sharon Springs.
26.3
KANSAS. Name. Signal Siloam Sincerity Smithton Soldier Solomon City Spoarvllle Spivey Spring Hill St. Bernard Saint Francis St. John's St. Thomas Stafford Stanley Sterling Stohrville Sumner Summerfleld Sunflower Sutton Sylvan Grove Sylvia Syracuse
No. 141 225 241 1 240 105 388 347 56 222 404 113 306 252 444 171 368 203 354 86 85 359 391 309
Location. Osage City. Topeka. Simpson. Highland. Soldier. Solomon. Spearville. Spivey. Spring Hill. Dodge City. Saint Francis. Concordia. Colby. Stafford. Stanley. Sterling. Bluff City. Caldwell. Summerfleld. Wichita. Water ville. Sylvan Grove. Sylvia. Syracuse.
Temple Thayer Topeka Towanda Troy Turner Turon Tuscan Twin Grove Tyrian Tyro
237 149 17 30 55 425 358 82 213 246 386
McCune. Thayer. Topeka. Towanda. Troy. Turner. Turon. Neosho Falls. Severy. Garden City. Tyro.
Ulysses Union Unity Urbana Valley Center Valley Falls Vermillion Vesper Virginia Vulcan Wakarusa Wa-Keeney Wakefield Waldron Wallace... Walnut City Walnut Valley Wamego Washington Wathena Waverly Webb Wellington Wellsville Western Star West Gate Westmoreland Wetmore White City White Cloud Whiting Wichita Wilmore Wilsey Windom Winfleld Woodson Wyandotte
435 ; 7 273 239 364 21 320 136 315 229 402 148 396 377 318 215 191 75 5 64 244 275 150 356 174 438 257 53 380 78 250 99 412 382 276 110 121 3
Ulysses. Junction City. Clearwater. Urbana.
Xenia Zenda Zeredatha
Valley Center. Valley FaUs. Vermillion. Sedan. Savonburg. Walnut. Wakarusa. Wa-Keeney. Wakefield. Waldron. Wallace. Rush Center. Ness City. Wamego. Atchison. Wathena. Waverly. Meade. Wellington. Wellsville. Smith Center. Kansas City. Westmoreland. Wetmore. White City. White Cloud. Whiting. Wichita. Wilmore. Wilsey. Windom. Winfleld. Toronto. Kansas City.
47 Xenla. 378 Zenda. 80 Cottonwood Falls.
PROCEEDINGS
264
OF THE
February.
LIST OF LODGES BY COUNTIES. County, Allen
Location.
Name.
No.
29 38 326 245 31S
lola
212 44 211 338 305
Kincaid
5 158 48 72 4 IIG
Potter
263 278 260 77
Kiowa Delta Claflin
Claflin
;
Hoisington Bronson
424 217 15 331 268 92 8 210
Fort Scott
- 108 216 28 115 47
185 35 326 373 363 159
Butler
74 439 151 97 401 223 434 30
Elgin
Cheyenne
Weir Saint Francis
SaHordville
80 395
Olive
355 350 136
Black Diamond Saint Francis
71 100 194 351 9.74 404
1927-28.'
GRAND
LODGE OF
265
KANSAS.
L I S T OF LODGES BY COUNTIES—Continued County.
Location.
Name.
No.
Ashland Minneola Clay Center.... Clifton Green Oak Hill Wakefield '....
Ashland.... Minneola Clay Center CUfton Highland Oak Hill Wakefield
277 431
Cloud..
Clyde Concordia Glasco Jamestown Miltonvale
Prairie Queen.... St. John's Glasco Jamestown Miltonvale
176 113 292 227 242
Cotfey.
Burlington Gridley Lebo LeRoy Waverly
Burlington Hebron Lebo Neosho Waverly
66 314 152 27 244
Comanctie..
Coldwater Protection "Wilmore
Comanche Protection Wilmore
295 384 412
Cowley.
Arkansas City Burden Dexter Maple City Winfleld
Crescent Clinton Dexter Maple City Winfield
133 233 156 342 110
Crawford..
Arcadia Arma Cherokee Farlington Girard Hepler McCune Mulberry Pittsburg Walnut...
Arcadia Arma Cherokee Godfrey Girard Hepler Temple Mulberry Pittsburg Vulcan
329 408 119 124 93 398 237 261 187 229
Decatur..
Jennings Norcatur Oberlin
Jennings Norcatur Mountain Slope.
360 317 186
Dickinson..
Abilene Chapman Enterprise Herington Hope Solomon
Benevolent Antiquity Enterprise Kansas Cyrus Solomon City....
98 280 437 307 288 105
Doniphan..
Bendena Doniphan Highland Severance Troy Wathena White Cloud...
Bendena Arcana Smithton Severance Troy Wathena White Cloud
440 31 1 313 55 64 78
Douglas..
Baldwin Eudora Lawrence Lawrence Lecompton
Palmyra Doric Lawrence Acacia Lecompton
23 83 6 9 420
Edwards..
Kinsley Lewis
Mt. Moriah Lewis
179 220
Clark.. Clay...
134 122 296 334 396
PROCEEDINGS
266
OF THE
February,
L I S T OF LODGES BY COUNTIES—Continued.
Countv.
Location.
Name.
No.
Elk..
Elk Falls.. Grenola.... Howard... Longton... Moline
Meridian.. Canopy Hope Longton... Moline
126 248 155 26 267
ElUs.....
Ellis... Hays..
297 195
Ellsworth
Ellsworth.. Holyrood.. Wilson
Apollo.. Hays Ellsworth.. Holyrood.. Samaria....
146 343 298
Finney .... Ford
Garden City.. Bucklin Dodge City. Kingsdown.. Spearville
Tyrian.. Grand View.. St. Bernard.. Kingsdown.... Spearville
376 222 447 388
Franklin..
Lane Ottawa Ottawa Pomona Richmond Wellsville Williamsburg... Junction City.. Gove Grainfleld.. Grinnell... Quinter Hill City. Morland..
Lane Ottawa Melody McKinley.. Richmond.. Wellsville... Anchor
339 18 400 41 426 356 224
Union Gove City.. Grainfleld... Grinnell Quinter Millbrook.. Morland
302 381 448 410
Geary.. Gove...
Graham Grant Gray Greeley Greenwood
Hamilton.. Harper
Harvey Haskell Hodgeman
Ulysses Cimarron.. Ensign Horace,. Climax iSureka Fall Biver.. Hamilton... Madison Severy Coolidge.. Syracuse.. Anthony.... Attica Blufif City. Freeport Harper Waldron..... Burrton.... Halstead... Newton.... Sedgwick.. Satanta.... Sublette... Jetmore
246
281 414
Ulysses... Preston.. Ensign...
435
Horace... Climax Fidelity Greenwood.... Hamilton Madison Twin Grove.. Coolidge,. Syracuse.. Anthony.... Attica Stohrville.. Freeport.... Harper Waldron.... Burrton Halstead.... Newton Sedgwick... Satanta... Santa Fe.. Alpha
352
283 413
411 106 163 301 196 213 316 309 200 262 368 389 206 377 182 46 142 139 446 312 282 .
1927-28.
GRAND LODGE OF
267
KANSAS.
LIST OF LODGES BY COUNTIES—Continued. Location.
Countv-
Name.
Delia Hoyt
;
Whiting
Hoyt "Whiting
-.
Mt. Zion Valley Falls
Valley Falls
No. 20 419 372 42 327 393 130 240 250 256 236 266 14 415 21 84 178 228 336 11 87 304
^
De Soto
De Soto
Olathe
Olathe
Spring Hill
Spring Hill
40 127 65 135 19 436 56 444 432 289 427 230 319 347 378 293 409 399
Edna
69 . 73 345 218 63 117 279
Fort Leavenworth King Solomon Henri Saltville
365 45 311 49 2 10 68 241 190 59 154 359
PROCEEDINGS
268
OF THE
February,
L I S T OF LODGES BY COUNTIES—Continued. Name.
Location.
County.
No. 286 61 33 341 88
Oakley
253
Allen
Allen
Hartford
Hartford
335 109 12 193 114 147 120
Axtell
Axtell Blue Valley
Oketo
Oketo
234 259 169 67 112 91 25 354 320 85 197 251 397 368 172 346 276
Plains
Mitchell
275 367
Equity
131 243 24 37
Beloit Glen Elder
Elk City Tyro
White City Morton
Webb
Glen Elder
Tyro
White City Elkhart
145 125 294 249 214 324 137 102 132 107 386 429 36 375 374 168 380 382 422
1927-28.
GRAND LODGE OF
269
KANSAS.
LIST OF LODGES BY COUNTIES—Continued. County.
Name.
Location.
Goff
Erie Thayer
Goff
Erie
No. 80 13 430 323 162 39 53 103 416 76 149 239 191 310 181 199
Euclid
79 70 101 22 141 62 270 407 207 204 390 160 180 202 143 167 175 264 231 184
Phillips
387 392 34 188 52 75257 Pratt
Pratt
394 265 332 164 383
Turon
299 208 140 445 43 428 391 358
270
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
LIST OF LODGES BY COUNTIES—Continued. County.
Location.
Name.
No.
129 362 128 349 123 221
Rice
308 247 337 361 219 192 171
Rltey
235 16 166 344
Riley Codell...
Ashlar Codell
Walnut City Bunker Hill
Blue Hill
418 290 189 330 58 215 291 198 153 177 209 328 60
Scott City
284 258 273 238 364 86 99
303.
433
Fargo Auburn
Golden Rule Hoxie Kanorado Smith Smith Center
Oak
300 32 138 111 50 17 51 90 225 402 348 423 321 443 183 405 287 174
1927-28.
GRAND LODGE OF
271
KANSAS.
L I S T OP LODGES BY COUNTIES—Concluded. Location.
County. Stafford
Stafford St. John
Name.
Stafford..
No. 371 252 254 441 406
Caldwell
Belle Plaine Milan
Oxford
"Oxford
285 173 203 269 255 201 165 157 150 306 442
Colby Rexford
148
Maple Hill
Maple Hill
161 357 205 421 370 417 318 232 226 170 104
Wichita
340
Wilson
118 403 379 57 95 94 81
Buffalo
Buffalo:
82 121 144
Eoger E. Sherman West Gate White Church
366 3 271 272 322 333 369 438 385 425 96
Big Springs
Auraria
Allen Amerlcus
Location.
Burlington
Allen
Location.
Lyon
County.
Allen
Name.
Pottawatomie.. Wheaton
McPherson
Leavenworth...
1870
1868 1858
1800
1866
Disp. Bel'ri.
Feb. Oct. Feb. Feb. Oct. Oct.
18, 15, 18, 16, 18, 16,
Chartered.
C Dispensation was r e t u r n e d t o G r a n d M a s t e r , with a s t a t o -
(DEFUNCT.) Charter Revoked.
Remarks.
j N o meetings were held, a n d dispensation was r e t u r n e d ( t o the Grand Master.
(.Auraria L o d g e , it was d e e m e d best t o h a v e b u t one lodge.
1891 M a r . 1, 1923 1867 Oct. 2 1 , 1869 (Consolidated with M t . H o p e 1891 ( Lodge N o . 238, F e b . 2 , 1 8 9 4 . 1887 J a n . 3 , 1912 1859 Oct. 14, 1861 1860 Oct. 2 1 , 1863 ( D r o p p e d from roll a c c o u n t orOct 15, 1861 37 ( Colorado in 1862. 1 Dispensation issued as Big \ Springs Lodge, b u t n a m e afterOct. 16. 1807 9 Oct. 19, 1857 ( w a r d s changed t o Shawnee.
335 02 253 285 26 30
No.
Remarks.
CHARTERED.
G r a n d L o d g e refused c h a r t e r . ( M a s t e r r e p o r t e d t h a t n o m e e t i n g s h a d been held, a n d s owing t o absence of m e m b e r s , a n d need of s u i t a b l e room, ( d i s p e n s a t i o n was r e t u r n e d .
Charter Surrendered.
1887 1898 1904
1881 1884
1900
1859
Disp. Bev'k'd.
CHARTERED LODGES
1899 1868 1857 1878 1884 1868 1885 1896 1903
1800
1857
Leavenworth....
1923
Disp. Issued.
1863
Allen
Name.
Coffey
County.
DEFUNCT LODGES.
LODGES UNDER DISPENSATION, BUT NEVEK
o
Co
>, o
b
to o o
to -J to
Star Triune
;..
20 21 18 21
21
18 18
20 17 19 21
60 Oct. 16, 1866
Leavenworth.. . Cavalry....
Feb. 15, 1882 Feb. 22, 1883 Oct. 18, 1859 Oct. 18, 1876
34 Oct. 21, 1862
69 216 25 170
34 Oct. 16, 1860
122 Oct. 16, 1872
46 Oct. 17, 1865
67 Oct. 20. 1868 301 Feb. 15, 1888
May Dec. Dec. Dec.
9, 17, 17, 17,
1919 1883 1892 1881
(LocatlonchangedtoSilverLake, Oct. 17, 1877 <Oct. 21. 1868. Name changed (.to Great Light, Oct. 20. 1869. J Consol. with King Solomon i Lodge No. 10. Oct. 18. 1876.
("riie lodge room wa.s on the second floor of the residence of J Oct. 21, 1863 Brother Sanders W.McComas, north of Holton. There was l,no town or village. Oct. 18. 1876 S Consolidated with Bluff City 1 Lodge No. 313, June 18, 1892. rConsolidated with Bourbon •< LodgeNo. 8.and name changed (.to Rising Sun Lodge No. 8. 1 Dropped from roll account or< ganization Grand Lodge Ind. iTer. In 1878. ( Dropped from roll account or•< ganization Grand Lodge Colo(.rado in 1862.
i Consolidated with Halcyon 1 Lodge No. 120, Oct. 18. 1876.
1 Consolidated with Godfrey 1 Lodge No. 124, Mar. 26, 1894.
(•Consolidated with Westmore•<land Lodge No. 257, May 18, (.1894. Feb. 18, 1897 Feb. 19, 1903 j Charter issued direct by Grand
1889 1898 1890 Sept. 21, 1896 1874 1876 , 1883 1886 Jan. 17, 1894 1874 1870 Mar. 22, 1879 1874 Oct. 15, 1879 1858 Oct. 21, 1863 1894 Feb. 16, 1910
18, 1891
20 Oct. 16. 1860
337 Feb. 313 Feb. 325 Feb. 325 Feb. 153 Oct. 164 Oct. 164 Fob. 148 Oct. 87 Oct. 152 Oct. 12 Oct. 353 Feb.
Indlanola..
Ida
Leavenworth... High Prairie..
Washington
Golden City..
Golden City
High Prairie Ida
Alpha..
Fort Gibson
Frankfort.. Lily
Rising Sun..
Marshall
Elk Creek..
Fort Scott
Frankfort
Elk City!
Bluff City Bluff City Bucklln Cato Cedar Vale Cedar Vale Clifford Clinton Edwardsvllle Emporia
Pottawatomie.. Blaine Bluff City Bluff City Ford Bucklin Cato Crawford ChautauQua .... Cedar Vale Chautauqua .... Myrtle Butler Whitewater... Ashlar Wyandotte Composite.. BreckenrldKe... Emporia Dickinson Enterprise..
-.J
Cn
0)
o
n
C3
o
ft
Douglas.. Osage Neosho... Miami
Franklin..
Coffey
Miami
N . Lawrence Olivet Osage Mission... Osawatomie
Ottawa
Ottumwa..
Paola
Miami
Ottumwa..
Ottawa
Osage Valley..
Valley Astra Mission..
VaUey
Douglas..
N . Lawrence
Loulsburg Lyons Evergreen Monticello M t . Pleasant.. N e o s h o Rapids..
Magnolia..
Miami Rice Labette.... Johnson... Atchison.. Lyon
Loulsburg Lyons Montana Monticello M t . Pleasant.. Neosho Rapids.
Phoenix.,
Harvey...
McPherson....
LIndsborg.
Lecompton Liberty Linconville
Newton
Douglas Montgomery.. Marlon
Lecompton Liberty LlnconvlUe
Landmark...'..
Nevada....
Leavenworth..
Leavenworth..
Name.
N e v a d a City
County.
Location. Chartered.
Charter Surrendered.
1, 1896
r D r o p p e d from roll a c c o u n t or•{ganization G r a n d Lodge of ( C o l o r a d o in 1862. S Consolidated with Newton j Lodge N o . 142. J u n e 28, 1901. ) Consolidated with Lawrence I Lodge N o . 6, O c t . 18, 1876.
69 Oct. 21,1874
11 Oct. 18,1858 Oct. 18, 1871
128 Oct. 17,1872
(.Valley Lodge. (Consol. with Franklin Lodge •^No. I S , N o v . 24, 1906, as (.Ottawa Lodge N o . 18. j C h a r t e r revoked Oct. 2 1 , 1 8 6 3 , I b u t restored Oct. 16, 1866. j Consolidated with P a o l a Lodge ( N o . 37. Oct. 18, 1876.
Feb. 16,1882 M a r . 5, 1887 Feb. 20.1902 F e b . 20, 1908 Oct. 20,1870 J a n . ' i g ! 'l897 f Disp'n issued as Osawatomie Oct. 2 1 , 1863•I Lodge, b u t chartered as Osage Oct. 18, 1859
30 Oct. 16,1867
231 Feb. 20,1884
30 363 92 24
I F i r s t disp'n issued April 7, 1864, recalled b y G.-. M . ' . , (second Sept. 2 7 , 1864.
Consol. witli K e y s t o n e Lodge N o . 102, M a r c h 22, 1918.
r D l s p e n s a t i o n issued as L a n d - • •j marlc Lodge, b u t c h a r t e r issued (.in n a m e of St. J o h n ' s Lodge.
Remarks.
Oct. 16,1879 Dec. 6, 1894 Feb. 17,1881 F e b . 2 1 , 1895 Oct. 19.1871 J a n 13, 1888 Oct. 16,1866 Oct. 20, 1875 Oct. 17,1867 F e b . 15, 1888 j N a m e changed in 1870 t o Ionic Oct. 21, 1869Oct. 18, 1879 (Lodge.
36 Oct. 15,1861
180 192 86 43 58 77
Charter Revoked.
Oct. 17, 1865
253 Feb. 19, 1885Dec. 5, 1888
13 Oct. 18, 1858 123 Oct. 17. 1872 31S F e b . 20, 1889 Jan.
26 Oct. 16, 1867 Oct. 19, 1870
No.
CHARTERED LODGES (DEFUNCT)—Concluded.
to
o
Co
o
to
o o ft bj to,
-0
Walton White "Water Winfleld
Virginia City
Trading Post Twin Falls
Richfield
Pittsburg
Paris
Pardee
Mt. Moriah
Butler
Winfleld
Walton
1883 1874 1887 1905
Jan. 24, 1902
Sept. 15. Oct. 21, Jan. 6, Dec. 10,
Sept. 3, 1887
Nov. 16, 1901 Feb. 17, 1892
Oct. 18, 1871
Oct. 17, 1871
17, 20, 20, 22,
1892 1908 1875 1928
(Utah in 1872.
( Consol. with Salina Lodge No. \ 60, April 29, 1907 j Dropped from roll account or-
J Consolidated with Pittsburg 1 Lodge No. 187, July 29,1911.
Feb. 18, 1885 (Montana in 1866.
(Dropped from roll account or-
No record of disp'n having Oct. 21, 1863 j(been Issued.
Feb. Feb. Oct. Feb.
Oct. 17, 1877
I Dispensation issued as Lincoln I Lodge.
323 Feb. 19, 1890 Aug. 5, 1895 Feb. 24, 1927 280 Feb. 16, 1887 fConsol. with Adelphi Lodge i N o . 110, Feb. 19, 1903, as 58 Feb. 20, 1889 (winfleld Lodge No. 110.
18, 22. 18, 16, 15, 18. 19, 18, 17, 21, 16, 19,
1886 1883 1863 1867 1882 1859 1871 1858 1867 1863 1879 1885 Dec. 20, 1864
Feb. Feb. Oct. Oct. Feb. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Feb.
70 Oct. 21, 1868
69 Oct. 21, 1868 Paris 22 Oct. 21, 1862 52 Oct. 16, 1867 Owen A. Bassett 367 Feb. 17. 1904 138 Oct. 16, 1872 303 Feb. 15, 1888 Richfield John H. Brown... 216 Feb. 22, 1894
216 Perfect Square.... 220 39 54 152 Leavenworth.... 18 Zion 108 15 Leavenworth.... 59 Blooming Grove.. 41 181 Greenwood ,. Olive Ark 243 Virginia City 43
Pratt
Saline
Franklin
Jefferson
Atchison
>•
o
o 0
>•
276
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
GRAND LODGES IN CORRESPONDENCE WITH THE GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS; ALSO T H E NAMES AND ADDRESSES OF GRAND SECRETARIES. Alabama Arizona
GEORGE A. BEAUCHAMP GEORGE J. ROSKRUGE
Montgomery. Tucson.
Arkansas
FAY HEMPSTEAD
Little Rock.
California Colorado Connecticut
JOHN WHICHER WILLIAM W . COOPER GEORGE A. K I E S
San Francisco. Denver. Hartford.
Delaware
JOHN F . ROBINSON
(wilmington.
District of Columbia....J. CLAUDE KEIPER
Washington.
Florida Georgia Idaho Illinois Indiana
WILBER P. WEBSTER FRANK F . BAKER CURTIS F . P I K E OWEN SCOTT WILLIAM H . SVVINTZ
Jacksonville. Macon. Boise. Decatur. Indianapolis.
Iowa
CHARLES C . HUNT
Cedar Rapids.
Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland
ALBERT K . WILSON FRED W . HARDWICK JOHN A. DAVILLA CHARLES B . DAVIS GEORGE COOK
Topeka. Louisville.. New Orleans. Portland. Baltimore.
Massachusetts.....
FREDERICK W . HAMILTON.jg^g^^j^
„
„
f P. 0. Box 1227,
„ "„
f209 Mas. Temple,
Michigan
Lou B. WINSOR
Grand Rapids.
Minnesota Mississippi
JOHN FISHEL EDWARD L . FAUCETTE
St. Paul. Meridian.
Missouri
ARTHUR MATHER
Montana
LUTHER T . HAUBERG
Nebraska
LEWIS E . SMITH
Nevada
FRANK D . KING
( Masonic Temple,
{gj. Loyjs
Helena, Box 896.
{ S J a S ' " '^''"^^^' Reno.
("Masonic Temple,
New Jersey
ISAAC CHERRY
New Mexico
ALPHEUS A. K E E N
New York North Carolina North Dakota
f Masonic Hall, ROBERT J. KENWORTHY....-jj^g^ York City. WILLIAM W . WILLSON Raleigh. WALTER L . STOCKWELL Fargo. (m Central Omce Bide.,
Ohio
Oklahoma
-...A Trenton.
HARRY S. JOHNSON
;...WILLIAM M . ANDERSON
..Albuquerque.
(Cincinnati.
Guthrie.
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
^
^
D. RUFUS CHENEY JOHN A. PERRY
Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota
HAROLD L . MCAUSLAN O. FRANK HART GEORGE A. PETTIGREW
Providence. Columbia. Sioux Falls.
Tennessee Texas
STITH M . CAIN WILLIAM B . PEARSON
Nashville. Waco.
Utah
SAM H . GOODWIN
Salt Lake City.
Vermont Virginia
HENRY H . ROSS JAMBS M . CLIFT
Burlington. Richmond.
Washington
HORACE WALTER TYLER
Tacoma.
West Virginia „,. .
GEORGE S . LAIDLEY „, „,
Charleston. f470 Van Buren,
Wisconsm Wyoming
WILLIAM F . WEILER JOSEPH M . LOWNDES
{Milwaukee. Casper.
Alberta
S. Y. TAYLOR
Calgary. I P. O. Box 910, j ^ ^ ^ Westminster.
Canada
^
277
Oregon Pennsylvania
British Columbia
^
OF KANSAS.
f Masonic Temple,
W. A. DEWOLF-SMITH ;......WM. MCGREGOR LOGAN
) Portland Philadelphia.
Hamilton.
f Casilla 2867, Chile
AGUSTIN L PALMA
Colombia
MIGUEL A. GARCIA
JBarranquiUa.
Costa Rica, C. A ^ ,
GEORGE F . BOWDEN ^ „ „
...San Jose. (Havana, j Apartado 72.
^
jsantiago.
fApartado 61,
Cuba
JOSE F . CASTELLANOS
Ecuador
Luis W. GARCIA MORENO....Guayaquil. ("Freemason Hall,
England...
P. COLVILLE SMITH
jLondon
fApartado 312,
Guatemala
FRANZ MEINDL
Honduras
S.HERNANDEzYHERNANDE2.Tegucigalpa. (Freemason Hall,
Ireland
HENRY C . SHELLARD...
Manitoba
JAMES A. OVAS
Mexico (York G.-.L.-.)A. PERCIVAL HUGHES New Brunswick
J. TWINING HARTT
New. South Wales
DAVID CUNNINGHAM
{Guatemala. C. A.
) Dublin.
Winnipeg.
(P. O. Box 1986, (Mexico City St. John. .
j c a S e a g h St.
278
PROCEEDINGS
New Zealand
OF THE
GEORGE BARCLAY
February,
\„j
,,.'
^
'
^Wellington. Nova Scotia
JAMES C . JONES
T,
A
Panama
ANTONIO J.
_
„;r
Peru
MANUEL YABAR DAVILA..jj^j^^^^
„,.,...,,
J
^,
Halifax.
T -T,
(Apartado 350,
BUSTAMANTE..-^p^^^^^^
-r
^
^ ^
(Apartado No. 587, (P. O. Box 990,
Philippine Islands Prince Edward Isl
NEWTON C . COMFORT ERNEST K E M P
) Manila Charlottetown.
« . X,. Puerto Eico..
X ^ r„ JoSB G. TORRES
fP. 0 . Box 747, -^g^^^ j ^ ^ ^ ^
« ^ Quebec Queensland;
TTT « r TTT fP- 0. Box 3172, W. WALTER WILLIAMSON....K Montreal CHARLES H . HARLEY Brisbane, Box 675.
^ ,
1
y-i .
•
Salvador. C. A Saskatchewan Scotland South Australia
^
.
.
^
AMERIGO ORIANI W. B . TATE THOMAS G . WINNING CHARLES R . J. GLOVER
fSan Salvador, {Masonic Temple. Regina. Edinburgh. Adelaide.
„ , »^
f l l 7 Macquarie St.,
Tasmania Victoria
W. H. STRUTT WILLIAM STEWART
s Hobart Melbourne.
Western Australia
J. D. STEVENSON
Perth.
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE OF
279
KANSAS.
GRAND REPRESENTATIVES OF THE GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS NEAR OTHER GRAND LODGES. Alabama
R.". W.-. ENEY F . YIELDING
Alberta Arizona Arkansas
Chile
R.-. W.-.S. J. BLAIR Calgary. M.-.W.-.JAMES H . BARRETT Douglas. M.-.W.-.Louis BAUERLEIN Camden. „ „ (Vancouver, M.-.W.-.ANDREW.McC. CREBRY jg22 Richards St System not recognized. (Box 97, Trenton, R.-. W.-.R. H. SPENCER ) Ontario. (Santiago, R.-. W.-. MAXIMIANO FLORES ) Casilla 28S5
Colombia
R.-. W.-.VIRGILIO DE LA CRUZ ••••|BarranquiIla.'
Colorado Connecticut
R.-. W.-. WILLIAM H . SANFORD Denver. R.-. W.-. HOWARD A. MIDDLETON....Broad Brook.
Costa Rica
R.-. W.-.ADOLFO CANAS
Cuba
R.-. W . - . F E L I X V. PREVAL
Havana.
Delaware
M.-.W.-.A. VICTOR HUGHES
.....Wilmington.
British Columbia California Canada
District of Columbia ..R.-. W.-. ARTHUR L . BRYANT
Florence.
San Jose.
) i gig O S t ° ^ W ( Care L. Gnznun & llijos.
Ecuador
R.-. W.-.J. GABRIEL PINO ROCA.. Mpariado leira "(|",
England
R.-.W.-.KYNASTON STUDD
Florida
R.-. W.-.HARRY B . MINIUM
Georgia
R.-. W.-.P. T. MCCUTCHEN
( Guayaquil. (f'^ Harley St.,
[London, W. 1. Jacksonville.
™nois
Franklin. (Pasaje Aguirre R.-. W.-.SAMUEL E . F R A N C O :-JNo.3,Guatemala. fSanta Rosa de R.-. W.-.FEDERICO C . CANALES....^ • (_Copan. M.-.W.-.SHERMAN M . COFFIN Boise. (Chicago, R.-.W.-. GLENN GRISWOLD | I 2 E . Grand Ave.
Indiana Iowa ^ . ,
R.-. W.-. RUDOLF H . HORST System not recognized. ^ „. „r
f Dublin. 7 Emor
Ireland
R.-. W.-.RICHARD WALSH
^
Kentucky
M.-.W.-.FRANK C . GERARD
Bowling Green.
Louisiana Maine Manitoba Maryland
R.-. W.-.HENRY S . WESTON R.-. W.-.ARCHIE L . TALBOT R.-. W.-.JABEZ MILLER R.-. W.-. JACOB ROHRBACH
Shreveport. Lewiston. Winnipeg. Frederick.
Guatemala Honduras
Idaho
South Bend.
g.
a Q j> j
280
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
System not recognized. ^ ,^ Mexico(YorkG.-.L.-.)M.-. W/. JOHN I . NEWELL. Michigan R.'. W.". W M . H . GALLAGHER
February,
Massachusetts
("Apartado No. 40, JTampicO. Allegan.
New Jersey
fSt. Paul, R.". W.'.MONTREVILLEj.BROWN{go3 g^j^ gt. S. E. R.% W.'. R O B E R T W . HINTON, jR...Lumberton. R.% W.•. CHARLES L . WOODS.: RoUa. M.'.W/,. ROBERT J. HATHAWAY Glendive. R/. W.-,. H E N R Y H . H E I L E B Hastings. R/. W/.CHARLES A. THOMPSON ....Pioche. R/. W.'.GESNER A . TAYLOR Dorchester. ("49 Prospect St., R.'. W.\ARTHUR POTTBRTON jj^^^^y ^ i t y .
New Mexico New South Wales New York
System not recognized. R/. W/. .ALFRED J. BURBIDGE R/. W/.ALBERT C . BURDICK
Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Brunswick
New Zealand.. North Carolina North Dakota Nova Scotia Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Panama : Pennsylvania Philippine Islands
Sydney. Lowville.
fP. O. Box 2, R/. W .EARNEST / WARNES JGreymouth. ChapelHill. R.-. W /. M . C. S. NOBLES Churchs Ferry. ..R/. W / . H A N S A. M O B Halifax. R/. W.-. J O H N G . MITCHELL Springfield. M.-.W.' . CHARLES L . MINOR . M A H L O N F . MANVILLE ...Ada. R.-. W.Portland. R.-. W.'.WALTER O . HAINES .ABRAHAM FRANKEL Colon. R.'. W.System not recognized. . „ fCity Hall, R.-. W.-.HARVEY A. BoBDNER....|j^j^^ij^
-.WILLIAM G . MCDONALD..Montague. Prince Edward Isl R.-. W.Puerto Rico R.-. W.--.FEDERICO VALL-SpiNOSA..San Juan. •.EDWARD A. EVANS Quebec. Quebec M.'. W.„ fBrisbane, Queensland R.'. W.-.JAMES C . ROBERTS (Adelaide St. Rhode Island R.-. W.--.JOHN R . D E N N I S Providence. Sonsonate. Salvador,'. R.-. W.--.RAMON QUESADA -.W. M . MARTIN Regina. Saskatchewan R.-. W.f The Frond, Scotland ....R.-. W.-.J. S. M. GRIEVE juddingston.
South Australia South Carolina
( Adelaide, R.'. W••.WILLIAM HENRY ESSEX I Bank of Adelaide, ( King •Wmiam St. R.-. W.-. M. A. LANPORD Woodruff.
Tasmania
R.-. W.-'.JAMES B . VAUGHN R.-. W.- .DAVID W.WATSON
Tennessee
R.-. W.-.HALLUM W . GooDLOE......Nashville.
South Dakota
Castlewood.
rCollins St., .JHobart.
1927-28.
Texas Utah Vermont Victoria Virginia
GRAND
LODGE OF
281
KANSAS.
M/.W.-. JEWEL P. LIGHTFOOT Ft. Worth. Salt Lake City. M.-.W.' ARTHUR C . WHERRY Burlington. M.-.W.' HENRY H . ROSS . ( • 7 4 Moor St., EDWARD THOMAS Apps.-j-pj^j, R.-. W.-
Washington
Richmond. R.-. W.' HENRY M , BOYKIN R.-. W.-. WALTER J THOMPSON ....Tacoma.
Western Australia
R.-. W . - . F R E D S. FINCH
West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming
R.-. W . \ P A R E H . LORENTZ M.'.W.'.DAVID HARLOWS System not recognized.
f294 Nicholson (Road, Subiaco. Buckhannon. Milwaukee.
282
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
GRAND REPRESENTATIVES OF OTHER GRAND LODGES NEAR THE GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS. Alabama Alberta Arizona Arkansas
:
British Columbia California
R.'. W . - . J O H N M . KINKEL W . - . P A U L M . MARTIN W.'. W. AMER BURNETT W.'. CLAYTON LEHMAN
Topeka. Highland. Oberlin. Newton.
W.'.A. PHILLIP LAPHAM
Wetmore.
M.-. W . - . W M . EASTON HUTCHISON
Garden City.
Canada Chile
W . - . F R B D ROY ALFOKD
Colombia Colorado
W.-. ELLSWORTH B . SEWELL, JR....Topeka. W.-.LAUREN D . RIGG. Leon.
Connecticut Costa Rica Cuba
W.-. CLARENCE R . ATEN W.-.AUSTIN J. PAIGE W.-. ROY H . CLOSSEN
Dodge City. Abilene. Coffeyville.
Delaware
W.". ELMER S. NANCE
Oswego.
Fort Scott.
Dist. of Columbia..M.-.W.-.FERRIS M . HILL
Emporia.
Ecuador England
R.-. W.-.JAY B . KIRK R.'. W.-.ALBEKT K . WILSON
lola. Topeka.
Florida
M.'.W.-. ELMER F . STRAIN
Topeka.
Georgia
W.-. CLICK FOCKELE.!
Le Roy.
Guatemala Honduras
W.'.LUCIAN L . CONSTANT W . . F R A N K D . SPERRY
Belle Plaine. Ellsworth.
Idaho
W.-. STEPHEN A. D. GEAUQUE
Manhattan.
Illinois
M.-..W.-. CHARLES N . FOWLER
Salina.
Indiana
M.". W.'. OWEN J. WOOD
Topeka.
Iowa
System not recognized.
Ireland Kentucky Louisiana
W . - . J O H N DAVIS W.-. ROBERT H . MONTGOMERY W.-. HOMER T . HARDEN
Maine
Mexico.(Yorkj Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana
Wichita.
W.-. HARRY B . GRAHAM W.-. MOSES H . COLE
Massachusetts G.'.L.-.j
Belleville. Oswego. Wichita.
M.'.W.-. RICHARD E . BIRD
Manitoba Maryland
.
Haven. Harper.
System not recognized. ^ . ^ . - . A L B E R T K . WILSON
Topeka.
J W.-. J. FORREST AYRES Greenleaf. W.-. CLARENCE E. FARNSWORTH....Hoisington. W.-. EDWIN C . EAGLES Cherryvale. M.'.W.-.PERRY M . HOISINGTON Newton. W.'. JAMES H . BEEGLE Neodesha.
Nebraska
W.-.EARL T . PYLE
Nevada
W.-. PHILIP EUGENE STOTLER
Clay Center. J
(Bethel.
^'
1927-28.
New New New New New
GRAND
Brunswick Jersey Mexico South Wales York R.'.
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
283
W / . H A R R Y E . PEACH Emporia. W.-.GuY W. BROWN Beloit. System not recognized. W.-.HARMON J. BOWER Norton. W.'. GEORGE P. BEEZLEY Girard. „, „ „ (Kansas City, Mo., New Zealand W.-.FRANK E . DAVIS 16422 Wyandotte St. North Carolina W.'.R. NELSON LONG Hoxie. North Dakota W.-.BRUCE GRIFFITH..... Wichita. Nova Scotia M.-.W.'.JOHN MCCULLAGH Galena. Ohio W.-.JOSEPH D . FELL Concordia. Oklahoma W.-. DAVID A. NYWALL ...Formoso. Oregon... W.'.CHARLEY B . ERSKINE Cimarron. Panama W.-.JAMES A. CASSLER McPherson. Pennsylvania System not recognized. Philippine Islands W.'.ROY G. SHEARER Abilene. Prince Edward Isl W.'. MARION M. MILLER ...Longton. Puerto Rico M.'.W.'.WILLIAM L . BURDICK Lawrence. Quebec W.". CHARLES W . MILLER, JR....Hays. Queensland M.-.W.'.ELRICK C . COLE Great Bend. Rhode Island R.'. W . ' . W M . FRANK MARCH Lawrence. Salvador W.'. BENJAMIN F . H E I S Leavenworth. Saskatchewan W.-.JOHN B. FLEMING Hamilton. Scotland W.-.HARVEY 0 . DAVIS Anthony. South Australia W.'. RICHARD W . EVANS Dodge City. South Carolina W.'.GTTO R . SOUDERS Wichita. South Dakota M.-.W.-.CHARLES A. LOUCKS Lakin. Tasmania : M.-.W.-.BEN S . PAULEN Fredonia. Tennessee W.'.HUBERT H . HUBBARD Galena. Texas M.-.W.-.GILES H . LAMB Yates Center. Utah W.-.HAYES FLOYD... Ness City. Vermont W.-. HENRY WALLENSTEIN Wichita. Victoria W.-. CLARENCE M . CROSBY St. Francis. Virginia W.-.BARLUS ROMSTEDT Ottawa. Washington W.-.STANFORD M . SMART Zenda. Western Australia M.-.W.-.THOMAS G. FITCH Wichita. West Virginia M.-.W.-. JOHN W . NEILSON Concordia. Wisconsin W.-.GuY R. CURRIER Kensington. Wyoming -. System not recognized.
APPOINTIVE GRAND OFFICERS, 1927. (1) JOHN WESLEY BATES, Grand Chaplain ; (2) J OHN M. KINKEL, Grand Senior Deacon; (3) PERRY E. MILLER, Grand .Jnnior D eacon; (4) ROBERT LENON, Grand ]\I[arsha!; (5) WILLIAM E. CAIN, Grand Sword Bearer; (6) LAUREN D. RIGG, Gmnd Senior Steward : (7) R. NELSON LONG , Grand Junior Steward; (8) HOMER T. HARDEN, Grand Pursnivant; (9) W. AMER B URNETT, Grand Tyler.
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH —OF—
M.-. W.-. CHARLES NEWTON FOWLER, GRAND MASTER OF MASONS OF KANSAS, FEBRUARY 24. 1927, TO FEBRUARY 23, 1928.
BY B.-. \V.-. A L B E R T K . WILSON, GRAND SECRETARY.
It is a pleasure as well as an honor for one to be permitted to prepare a sketch of the life of one who has been exalted to the high office of Grand Master of Masons, and particularly where a bond of personal friendship has existed for many years. While the Masonic record of M.-.W.'. Brother CHARLES NEWTON FOWLER as shown in this sketch reflects actual worth and long years of untiring service and devotion to the Craft, yet the unwritten record of his many words of wisdom and advice, and acts of kindness in relieving distress and want will live even longer in the hearts of the brethren than the material evidence reflected in this biography. Brother FOWLER was born at LaPrairie Center, Illinois, July 14, 1872. When but six months of age his parents moved to Ellsworth County and were pioneers in central Kansas. He was married on September 20, 1893, to Miss DoRA WILLIAMS, to which union two children were born, VERNA A., and
LESLIE W .
In early life Brother FOWLER took up railway work, serving in that capacity for about sixteen years, after which he entered the banking business, and subsequently the mercantile business. He continued in this business until 1921 when he was enlisted in Masonic work in the city of Salina and is now occupying the important office of Secretary and Recorder of the Lodge and the other bodies in that city, including the Scottish Rite, of which he is likewise director, and one of the principal workers in the degrees. In this field of work he is equally as patient and painstaking as in all the more important duties and responsibilities of the several exalted stations he has been called upon to occupy in the several Grand Bodies in this jurisdiction.
286
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
MASONIC RECOKD. ANCIENT CRAFT MASONRY. CORNER STONE LODGE N O . 219, LITTLE RIVER, KANSAS:
Initiated, June 12, 1897. Passed, July 10, 1897. Raised, August 14, 1897. Dimitted, October 14, 1899. GENESBO LODGE N O . 361,
GENESEO, KANSAS:
Charter Member. Dimitted, March 13, 19*7. ELLSWORTH LODGE N O . 146, ELLSWORTH, KANSAS:
Adinitted, April 15, 1907. Senior Warden, 1908. Master, 1909. Dimitted, March 21, 1921. SALINA LODGE NO. 60, SALINA, KANSAS:
Admitted, May 2, 1921. Secretary, 1922, 1923, 1924, 1925, 1926, 1927. GRAND LODGE:
Grand Senior Deacon, 1924. Grand Junior Warden, 1924. Grand Senior Warden, 1925. Deputy Grand Master, 1926. Grand Master, 1927. District Deputy Grand Master, 1909, 1910, 1911. Committee Service. Committee on Finance and Property: Member, 1909, 1919^ 1920, 1921, 1922, 1923. Committee on Reports of Grand Officers: Member, 1915. Committee on Credentials: Member, 1918. Special Committee on Lodge Trials—Balloting—Courtesies Exchanged—Physical Qualifications: Member, 1925. Commissioners of Trials: Chairman, 1926.
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
287
CAPITULAR. ELLSWORTH CHAPTER N O . 54, ELLSWORTH, KANSAS:
Mark Master, November 9, 1908. Past Master, November 9, 1908. Most Excellent Master, November 25, 1908. Royal Arch, November 25, 1908. King, 1909. High Priest, 1910. Master Second Veil, 1914, 1916. Master First Veil, 1917, 1919. Principal Sojourner, 1918. Dimitted, April 11, 1921. SAUNA CHAPTER N O . 18, SALINA, KANSAS:
Admitted, May 23, 1921. Secretary, 1923, 1924, 1925, 1926, 1927. GRAND CHAPTER:
Grand Royal Arch Captain, 1918. Grand Captain of the Host, 1919. Grand Scribe, 1920. Grand King, 1921. Deputy Grand High Priest, 1922. Grand High Priest, 1923. District Deputy Grand High Priest, 1913. Committee Service. Committee Committee Committee Committee 1916. Committee Committee
on on on on
Chartered Chapters: Member, 1910. Chapters U. D.: Member, 1911. Finance and Property: Member, 1912, 1913. Reports of Grand Officers: Member, 1914, 1915,
on Credentials: Chairman, 1917. on Jurisprudence: Member, 1924, 1925, 1926, 1927.
ORDER OP 'HIGH PRIESTHOOD:
Received Order of High Priesthood, February 15, 1910. CRYPTIC. • ELLSWORTH COUNCIL N O . 9, ELLSWORTH, KANSAS:
Royal Master, March 20, 1909. Select Master, March 20, 1909. Super Excellent Master, March 20, 1909. Master, 1910. Principal Conductor of the Work, 1911,1912,1913,1916,1917, 1918, 1919.
288
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
GRAND COUNCIL:
Grand Steward, 1911. Grand Custodian of Work, 1912. Grand Marshal, 1913. Grand Conductor of Council, 1914. Grand Captain of the Guard, 1915. Grand Principal Conductor of'the Work, 1916. Deputy Grand Master, 1917. Grand Master, 1918. Committee Service. Committee on Necrology: Member, 1919; Chairman, 1920, 1922, 1925. Committee on Jurisprudence: Member, 1923,1924,1926,1927. GENERAL GRAND COUNCIL:
General Grand Treasurer, General Grand Council, R. & S. M. of the United States of America, 1922,1923,1924,1925,1926, 1927. CHRISTIAN KNIGHTHOOD. ST. ALDEMAR COMMANDERY N O . 33, ELLSWORTH, KANSAS:
Red Cross, January 24, 1910. Knights Templar, February 28, 1910. Knights of Malta, February 28, 1910. Senior Warden, 1910. Prelate, 1911. Commander, 1912, 1913. Captain General, 1917, 1918. Dimitted, March 28, 1921. ASKELON COMMANDERY No. 6, SALINA, KANSAS:
Admitted, May 9, 1921. Recorder, 1922, 1923, 1924, 1925, 1926, 1927. GRAND COMMANDERY:
Committee Service. Committee on Chartered Commanderies and Commanderies U. D.: Chairman, 1924, 1925, 1926, 1927. KNIGHTS OF CONSTANTINE.
Received Red Cross of Constantine in St. Augustine Council No. 7, Topeka, Kansas.
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
,
289
ST. DAVID COUNCIL N O . 58, SALINA, KANSAS:
Charter Member. Viceroy, 1926. Sovereign, 1927. SCOTTISH R I T E .
Thirty-second degree in Wichita Consistory No. 2, November 16,1899. Thirty-third degree at Cedar Rapids, Iowa, November 25, 1911.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE
esr-—
ASSOCIATION OF PAST GRAND MASTERS OF THE
M.-.W.-. GRAND LODGE OF A. F. & A. M. OF KANSAS.
February 21, 1928. The twenty-fourth Annual Meeting of the Association of Past Grand Masters of The M.-.W.-.Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas, was held at the Executive Mansion in the city of Topeka, at 6:30 p. M. of the above date. The following members were present: TOPEKA, KANSAS,
M. .w.-. M. .w.-. M. .w.-. M. -W.M. .w.M. .w.M. .w.M. .w.M. .w.M. • W.M. w •.
PERRY M . HOISINGTON THOMAS G . FITCH
Grand Master, 1901 Grand Master, 1904
WILLIAM EASTON HUTCHISON
Grand Master, 1912
ELRICK C . COLE WILLIAM L . BURDICK GILES H . LAMB OWEN J. WOOD BEN S. PAULEN JOHN MCCULLAGH....' ELMER F . STRAIN CHARLES A. LOUCKS JOHN W . NEILSON
Grand Grand Grand Grand Grand Grand Grand Grand Grand
Master, Master, Master, Master, Master, Master, Master, Master, Master,
1913 1915 1916 1919 1921 1922 1924 1925 1926
A table lodge was opened by M.-. W.-. JOHN M C Upon motion CHARLES M.-. W.-. Grand Lodge of Kansas was unanimously elected to membership and the attributes of the Association were conferred upon him. CULLAGH as Venerable President. N. FOWLER, Grand Master of The
1927-28.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
291
Succeeding the social pleasures of the evening many questions of importance were discussed and beautiful tributes were paid by M.-. W.". WILLIAM EASTON HUTCHISON to the memory of M.-.W/. HENRY F . MASON, and by M.-. W.-. OWEN J. WOOD to the memory of M.-. W/. CHARLES J W E B B .
Under the constitution M.-.W/.ELMER F . STRAIN succeeds to the office of Venerable President and M.'. W.". CHARLES N . FOWLER to the office of Steward for the ensuing year. On motion M.-.W.-.ELRICK C . COLE was chosen Worthy Secretary for the ensuing year. The table lodge was formally closed until the annual meeting in February, 1929, unless sooner convened by the Venerable President. ELRICK C . COLE,
Secretary.
HENRY F. MASON, Born» February 17, 1860, Racine, Wisconsin. Died, May 4, 1927, Topeka, Kansas. Grand Master, 1908.
CHARLES J WEBB, Born, July 7, 1863, Nortonville, Kansas. Died, January 3, 1928, o n ship board enroute t o H o n o l u l u . Grand Master, 1900.
3ln ilpmnmm. Charles J TOIebb fi/.19.-. (Sranii Mmttv in 1900
B O R N J U L Y 7, D I E D J A N U A R Y 3,
1863. 1928.
3ln H^mortam.
M.'.W.\ (^rmh IHaatpr ttt 1908
B O R N F E B R U A R Y 17, D I E D M A Y 4,
1860.
1927.
3(n iH^mnrtam.
Sacred to the IRlemorv of
©ur :JBeloved Dead witbin tbis ITurisdiction.
.
ieatlja iurtng tlje f far 192r. Smithton No. 1.—Charles F. Armstrong, March 7; Prank E. Day, April 4. Leavenworth No. Z.—Fritz Becker, Feb. 16; William W. Brownhill, April 20; Thomas E. Conklin, Dec. 22; Clement Donley, March 12; Thomas F. Kerns, March 16; Julius Melncke, Feb. 15; Harry C. Wiles, Oct. 29. Wyandotle No. 3.—Edward C. Curtis, Jan. 19; Charles C. Abraham, Jan. 31; Joseph M. Lindsay, March 4; John S. Yount, March 18; William P. Butler, April 4; Charles F. Tompkins, April 14; James A. Cable, May 2; Charles BlomQUist, May 14; Joseph T. Caldwell, July 2.3; James A. McClean, Aug. 13; Elie E. Moore, Aug. 29; Thomas H. Mangum, Oct. 9; .Joseph C. Hume, Oct. 11; Henry S. Royer, Oct. 11; Willis J. Byer.s, Oct. 14; Albert O. Woods, Oct. 21; John G. Winters, Oct. 23; Qe Russell, Nov. 11. Kickapoo No. Jf.—Charles C. Cline, Feb. 20. Washington No. !>.—J. Peter Adams, July 17; Hale H. Bayley, July 1; Charles C. Church, Nov. 3; Charles E. Foreman, March 2; Hezekiah C. Gross, Jan. 20; John J. Leapson, April 8; Alexander Macdonald, Dec. 4; James W. Orr, Feb. 6; Birent O. Running. April 7; Charles B. Singleton, Jan. 2. Lawrence No. 6.—Edgar C. Bricken, April 12; William V. Ford, July 6; Owen C. LeSuer, Dec. 13; Myron G. Mahley, Jan. 6; Arthur L. Marks, Aug. 20; Gordon E. McKee, Aug. 10; Ivan P. Parkhurst, Feb. 8; John Tudhope, June 24. Union No. 7.—Harry A. Bowmaster, May 1.5; Thomas A. Bryant, May 30; Phillip L. Crockett, April 28; William B. Fearing, Aug. 24; John H. Gardner, Aug. 4; Erail J. Kuhn, Oct. 23; George S. Spencer, Oct, 12; Charles B. Stebbins, Nov. 24; Sam Weichselbaum, Jan. 31. Bi.Hng Sttn No. 8.—Edward S. Blakeley, Dec. 4; Robert Aikman, Oct. 23; James W. Carr, May 21; Jesse E. Davis, Nov. 29; Isaac G. Mitchell, Sept. 3; Charles A. McMains, Oct. 20; Lamore B. Patterson, June 16. Acacia No. 9.—Warren B. Brown, May 29; Walter J. Canfleld, July 17; Edmund A. Kasold, May 1; Harry T. Lander, Dec. 3; Charles B. McClelland, Sept. 11. King Solomon No. 10.—John H. Case, May 16; James N. Cole, Feb. 3; Edward Fraser, July 9; Henry Graff, Sept. 1,5; Lucrene S. Stewart, Nov. 29. Jewell No. 11.—Frank Irvin Drake, March 9. Empotia No. IZ.—David D. Bailey. .Tune 3; William M. Hollars, April 10; George R. Mcintosh, May 8; Orren Smith, July 23; John S. Watson, Aug. 25; Robert Younggreen, Sept. 25. Nemaha No. IZ.—John E. Cook, Sr., May 23. Oskaloosa No. H.—Frank L. Coleman, Feb. 14; Henry A. Decker, June 2; Joseph Minor Pennington, March 18.
DEATHS—Continued. Great Bend No. 15.—Albert Fankhauser. May-20; John Melmaker, Sept. l.'i: Ernest B. Kussell, May 12; Flavious G. Smith, July 29; Joseph W. Stauffer, Dec. 20. Lafayette No. 16.—William H. Ashton, Oct. 14; Edward C. Converse. Jan. 22; Benjamin O. Coolev, March 1; Noel 1. Hedge, Oct. 29; Clarence J. Reid, Feb. 28; James W. Searson, July 7; George W. Southern, Nov. 19; Hiram C. Temple, Aug. 10; Leander W. Turner, Dec. 27; Joshua N. Wilson, Dec. 1. Topeka No. 17.—Carroll N. Beal, Oct. 29; Daniel H. Branaman May 25; Julius S. Clark, Oct. 11; Allen M. Coville. Jan. 25 Ralph H. Gaw, March 12; Charles O. Hovatter, Nov. 2 Donald D. Longenecker, Sept. IS; Henry S. Montgomery, Dec. 2.5; Solomon E. Richardson, March 21. Ottawa Nn. 18.—Edward P. Hubbard, Nov. 11, 1925; Grove Perkins, March 26; Arthur Cannady, July 27: William H. Stall, Sept. 17: William H. Okerberg, Oct. 5; George F. Kaiser, Dec. 2.5. Circlemlte Nn. 20.—Edward B. Heathman, Aug. 28; George E. Click, Dec. 28. Valley Falls No. SI.—Frank Gragg. April 4; John W. Butts, July 31; .Jesse T. B. Gephard, Aug. 12; Ulysses Grant Simmons, Nov. 30. Palmyra No. Z'i.—William Hobbs, July 1; George A. Shike, Nov. 24; Jerry E. Walker, Jan. 12. Osacje Valley Nn. 24.—Harry Coyne, Sept. 3; Frank L. Holt, May 17; Joseph S. Johnson, Jan. 11; Oscar F. Kemp, Oct. 6; Fred Miller, Jan. S; Walter G. Reyburn, March 14. Oketo No. 25.—Benjamin F. Ausmus. June 21. Longton No. 26.—Elmer C. Riderburg, Feb. 17. Neosho No. 27.—Albert D. Finley, Nov. 20; Perry Willet Jones, Dec. 20. Pacific No. 20.—Andy Wedin, April 22; Lewis Perrenoid, Aug. 14. Towanda No. SO.—l^ee D. Gregg, Feb. 22; Morran A. Evans, Juno 25: I^ouis E. McConnell, Nov. 8. Arcana No. -11.—Louis Clemetson, July 24. Mound City No. 33.—Alfred Latham, Oct. 28; Henry A. Strong, Nov. 29. Hatensville No. 3li.—Charles W. Thompson, March 23; William H. Dav, .Tune .'>; William J. Harries, July 28; George DeLude, Oct. 24; Oliver P . Taylor, Nov. 17. Hiawatha No. 35.—Andrew J. Hathaway, Dec. 12; David H. Knepper, Nov. 25; David Rubert, June 25; Addison Schrack, Feb. 15. Council Grove No. 36.—Lon Walter Britt, Oct. 29: Edwin R. Hotchkiss, May 4: Charles H. Hart, May 16: John T. Jacobs, Dec. 21; Charles Kesterson, Feb. 20: Thomas H. Moore. Dec. IG; Alonzo F. Snodgrass, June 19. Paola No. 37.—Peter Dugan, Dec. 21.
DEATHS—Continued. loja No. 38.—Charles E. Alarsh, Dec. (i; Homer Kussell, Feb. 22. Seneca No. 39.—Ferdinand Cleve, Jan. 3. HoUon No. 42.—Chester A. Hough, April 0; Edmund B. Jones, July 21; William ,1. Kaiil, .Ian. 27; Clarence L. Myers, Oct. 2; Samuel H. Scott, Aug. 20: Henry Sinning, March 17. Nickerson No. JfS.—Frank J. Ahlrich, Julv 26; C. Lee Berry, Nov. 20; J. Newton Elliott, Dec. 9. Di^lphian No. Itk-—Thomas P. Baxter, Jan. 17; Isaac D. Hedges, Feb. I; John W. Millar, March 17. Easton No. Jff).—George M. Stevens, Nov. 22. Halstead No. J,B.—Robert M. Todd, April 14. Xenia No. Jf7.—John M. Chitwood, Oct. . Nine Mile No. J)9.—Frank J. Williams, March 10. Lake No. .50.—Ezra Newton Martin, Feb. 3 ; Walter A. Yount, Feb. 20; Harry V. Cochran, May 3; James H. Forbes, Oct. 4; Everett B. Neiswender, Oct. 3; Walter. L. Luthye, Oct. 31 ; Ambrose P. Howell, Nov. 8. Orient No. 51.—C. G. Cantrell, July 19; Wilhs Coates, Sept. 8; Sylvester Cunningham, Jan. 17; Harmon E. Drum, Aug. 25; Alrron P\ Durkee, June25; Tilton C. Good, Oct. 19; Daniel L. Heaton. Feb. 14; Wilbur M. Holliday, July 27; DickRosseau Hite, Dec. 14; Charles W. Horn, Aug. 28; Charles William Joss, Julv 4; Robert S. Morison, Jan. 20; Henry Otto, Jan. 19; John E. Schmidt, May 27; Harry E. Shaffer, May 21; Jeremiah Shaw. May 18; Charles Sheffield, Aug. 27; Owen L. Smith, Sr., F^eb, .5: Edward A. Thompson, June 4: George A'. Warren, Oct. 6. Pollawalomie No. 52.—Clinton Welsh, March 28; Frank L. Vaughn, May 27. Wetmore No. SH.—William W. Lynn, April 28; James D. Beaumont, July 13. Troy No. .5.5.—James D. Elder, Dec. 3; James R. Sidwell, Oct. 21. Sprinq Hill No. .56.—Charles D. Ziegler, March 2,5; Edgar L. . West, April 2, Coytille No. 57.—Jordan S. Claiborne, March 4. McCracken No. 58.—Edward S. Chenoweth, Sept. 27. SallvilU, No. 59.—Thomas J. McCurrv, Feb. 22; John R. Millar, Oct. 5. Salina No. 60.—Robert L. Anderson, Aug. 30: Edmund H. Armstronp, Jan. 8; John W. Carney, Dec. 10; Moses M. Cook, April 19; John C. Entz, Feb. 6; Frank E. Johnson, Oct. 30; Boyd A. MacDonald, April 19: David C. Metbven, Sept. 19: Clarence .Julius Oberer, .Tan. 23: Frank Wallace Reed, Dec. 11: Thomi'S Watson Roach, Aug. 11: Robert S. See, March LO; Frank A. Smith, Oct. .5; Frank C. York, Dec. 15. La Cygnt No. 61.—Otto R. Price, Dec.26. liidceway No. 62.—Francis M. Jenkins, April 4.
DEATHS—Continued. Adams No. 63.- -Seth M. Canady, June 20; William E. Smith, Oct. 31. Wathena No. 64.—Jacob W. Bauer, Feb. 17; Timothy M. Guy, Nov. 12. Gardner No. 65.—Charles H, Goresline, May 25; James B . Armstrong, Sept. 25. Burlington No. 66.—Thomas Newton Bell, Sept. 25; Jacob Kodney Copple, Nov. 5; Henry Ewing Cowgill, June 15; David Murvin Grimes, Feb. 27; Harvey Thomas d i n g e r , March 5. Frankfort No. 67.—Robert S. McGhie, Oct. 15. Hiram No. 68.- Walter A. Bunch, Feb. 22; William H. Inman, Nov. 29. Carbondale No. 70.—Joseph C. Leach, Feb. 14; ,Tohn Coflman, May 13; Clarence A. Davis, May 31. Baxter No. 71.—Abner W. Abrams, Jan. 9. Huron No. ".2.^-"George Dorssom, June 22. Chelopa No. 73.—Henry Bowen, March 5; John K. Carlyle, • May 27; .Tames M. Lollar, Sept. 9; Wilbur H. Cloud, Dec. 2; JoseiJh A. Stroud, Dec. 13. Mystic Tie No. ~ii.—Roy L. Bailey, Dec. 8; Harold W. Henderson, Sept. 9; Harmon C. Selvage, Feb. 21; Henry B. Walker, Oct. 12. Wamego No. 75.—Abraham Rawson, .Tan. 9; Jesse E. Stewart, June 3; .John L. Brown, July 7. Erit No. 76.- -A. H. Osburn, Aug. 13, 192G; Will T. Allen. Dec. 17. Delta No. 77.-—William Rule, Feb. 26.' White Cloud No. 78.—Louis H. Polil, Sept. 6; Mclntire Byan, Dec. 1. Corinthian No. 79.—Gottfried Schneider. May 24 Warren N. Duffle, July 18; WiUiam H. Mast, Dec. 16. Zeredatha No. 80.—Frank V. Alford, July 8; Asa M. Breese, Aug. 11; J. Harmon Doolittle, Dec. 29; William J. Hill. Sept. 15; William L. Wood, July 18. New Albany No. 81.—Moses E. McCray, May 7. Tuscan No. 82.—Charles S. Sefrite, Oct. 5. Jefferson No. 81/.—Paul Woodrow Curry, Nov. 10; Thomas Harry Graham, June 20. Sutton No. 85.—William E. Barnes, Feb. 6; Lewis Hutchinson, Feb. 6; William Scott, Aug. 11; Henry C. Willson, Aug. 20. Sunflower No. 86.—Frank L. Ayers, Feb. 6; John J. French, Feb. 9; James V. Hazzard, Jan. 24; Horatio S. Irwin, Oct. 11; Lowell D. Kelly, Nov. 2; Jay Miller, May 4;. John H. McGee, June 9; Allen B. Sayles, Mar. 7; Tom Sladek, Nov. 27; Clarence A. Witbeck, May 6. Mankato No. 87.—Richard Whisman, Dec. 14.
DEATHS—Continued. Eureka No. 88.—Jesse A. Naylor, Sept. 23. Home No. 89.—Earl C. Shackleford, Dec. 13. Golden Rule No. 90.—Ellis Dana Smith, Jan. 15; Vernon McK. Marshall, Feb. 5; Oscar G. A^arner, March 1; Joseph Edmund Hanlon, May 30; Charles E. Suit, .luly 2; Justin E. Brown, July 5; Joseph E. Brown, July 24; William M. Clime, Sept. 21: John Lowrie. Sept. 28: Frank H. Parkhurst, Nov, 4; Charles Fountain, Dec. 2; Charles E. Holt, Dec. 31. Marysville No. 91.—Elijah Bentley, Jan. 19: Edward L. Willson, June 6: Loren H. Whan, July 31; Clark Travelute, Dec. 24; Koester W. Broughten, Dec. 26. Devon No. 92.—Artie L. Hayden, Feb. 3. Girard No. 93.—Bennett S. Gaitskill, Oct. 13; Mantford Hicks, Oct. 31; Robert H. McKay, May 11; Aaron T. Roberts, June 6; Frank J. Schatz, Sept. 17; Daniel H. Woolley, MaV 25. Harmony No. 9+.—Arthur C. Sperry, March 30; William B. Dale, Feb. 21; Cash M. Edson, July 13. Constellation No. 9.5.—Jacob W. Paulen, ,lan. 9; Clarence A. Robinson, Feb. 19; Raymond Preston Ohler, Aug. 21; Patrick H. Matthews, Oct. 17; Newton J. Matthews, Dec. 11. Delaware No. 90.—.John A. Wolfe, Sept. 24. Patmos No. 97.—AVilliam Henry Boston, Oct. 29; Thomas William Brett, May 12;t AVilliam Arthur Miller, Oct. 27; Jefferson D. Peters, Feb. 7. 1926; AVilliam Forest Postlewait, July 28; George A. Ramsey, July 7; John Phillip Saam, April, 1925; Myron S. Steere, Jan. 4; Jesse Mitchell W^allace, Sept. 17; Harry T. AVigginton, April 23. Benevolent No. 98.—Charles R. Danford, June 28; AVilliam E. Gleissner, Nov. 21; Brick P. R. Hemphill, June 5; Elias B. Martin, Jan. 27; Sylvester Shearer, Nov. 21. Wichita No. 99.—Ora A. Brown, June 6: Charles AV. Carev, Oct. 22; Warren H. Crippen, Nov. 15; Mott T. Carroll, Aug. 5; J. Waldo Carson, June 10; Arthur H. Douglas, May 5: Milton F. Gregg, April 7; Louis F. Groom, Oct. 6; William H. Kelchner, Feb. 27: Galusha A. King, Dec. 19; Louis V. Koch, Oct. 2; Benjamin F. Loper, Nov. 13; James L. MathJs, May 7; A'^enis Mayall, Oct. 10: Edwin R. B. Mitchell, March 31; Albert B. Moore, March 11; John A. Moore, Jan. 29; Edward S. Rumsey, Oct. 14; William Suhm, Aug. 22; Frank Tyler, June 26; Alfred B. Waters, Dec. 14; George M. AVhitney, Oct. 14. Prudence No. 100.—James P. Campbell, Sept. 22; M. Leslie Macauley, May 10; AVilford H. Trotter, Aug. 27. Euclid No. 101.—W. Findlay Thompson, Oct. 4; Samuel W. Fail, Aug. 12. Keystone No. 102.—George Burghart, Feb. 6; John AV. Glass, Jan. 12; Earl D. Lape, Feb. 18; John S. Lang, Aug. 2; Edward Rammel, April 28; Samuel D. Robertson, Feb, 1; Buckley B. Walters, Feb. 2; Albert S, AValker, Aug. 18.
'^
DEATHS—Continued. Cedar No. 103.—Roscoe C. Anderson, Jan. 30; ,lohn L. Corkwell, .'Vug. 11; Andrew M. Davis, .Sept. 20; Samuel C. Huston, April 2,1; Allen L. Parker, July 3; Jesse F. Shinn, June 27; Edward T. Sweet, July 3. Frontier No. lOlf.—Connie Collins, Aug. 11 : William C. Dollivar, Ma.v 20; .lames G. Groody, Aug. 28; Bradford L. Swan, April 21. Solomon Cily No. /O.5.—Jay Spaulding, April .5; Samuel K. Shenck, June IS. Fidelily No. 106.—Hugh A. Longwell, March 1F<; Joseph M. Gordon, April .5. Fortilude A^o. 107.—Harry M Brent. Jan. 20; Samuel Bowlbv, Aug. 10; John Charles Dent, May 12; William E. Stich, Oct. 4; Frank B. Taggart, Jan. 27. Mcrtxphii No. 108.—John Henderson, Feb. 2(5; Robert O. Rutherford, Jr., March 9. • Americiis No. 109.—John A. Sims, Nov. 20. Winfleld No. 110.— Frank B. Axtell, April 7; George G. Fowler, Dec. 4; .lohn C. Hilton, Feb. 26; John M. Montgomery, March 13; Edmond M. Rice, Dec. 17; William F,. Steinhour, Jan. 0; Francis R. Smith, April 1.5; Harry O. Stanton, Dec. 11. Hesperian No. III.—Calvin O. Day, Sept. 30; Eliphalet J. Howard, Nov. 12. St. John's Nn. 113.—George W. Laman. Sr., Jan. 4; Ogville M. Atwood, Feb. 10; Robert L. Jones, March 7. Advance No. lUi.—Ethan A. Boblitz, March 20. Parsons No. 117.—John E. Davies, JiUv 14: John S. Gray, March 29; Charles N. Hard, March 23; Arthur C. Hume, Nov. 21; Calvin K. Ijeinbach. Apiil .5; William H. McCartney, March 29; Charles Olson, July 30: Frank Parslev, March 23; Joseph S. Pfeilfer, July 25; Frank E. Reinhart, August 26; Stanley J. Tonkin, Oct. 23. Cherokee No. 119.—Charles H. Merriam, Sept. 29; Lemuel B. Williams, Sept. 11. Halcyon No. 120.—James H. C. Brewer, Dec. 15; William F. Brindley, Dec. 22. Woodson No. 121.—George E. Cannon, Dec. 10. Clifton No. IZS.—Carl Marion Worley, June 29. Cawker Cily No. 126.—Donovan Smith, March 0. Meridian No. 126.—William H. Walker, June 19; William F. Book, May 19. Palestine No. 127.—John C. HefHey, May 13; Finnis E. McDaniel, May 14. Bellecille No. 129.—Dan D. Bramwell, July 0; Carsten P. Carstensen, March 25; John W. McCool, Sept. S; John Nealeigh, Aug. IS; S. T. Stevenson, Sept. 20. Carson No. 132.—Arthur M. Crabtree, Oct. 29.
DEATHS—Continued. Crescenl N'o. -ISS.—William IS". Harris, .Ian. 4; Jacob Horbach. Marcli S; George H. Dean, June 20; Edward H. Kirby, Sept. 9; .Zavada B. Lewis, Oct. 15; Jesse H. Stewart, jVlay :30; AVilliam A. Roljcrson, Oct. 17; Cliarles Williams, Nov. 2:<; Lewellyn E. Woodin, Aug. 28; Walter F. Scott, May 10. Clay Center No. ISJi.—Ben.)aminF. Morgan, Feb. 28; David T. Oseribaugli, J lily i:H; Charles D. Osterliout, Dec. 19. Lenexa No. 135.—Henry Gillett, Aug. 26; Harry P. Miclieau, Nov. 25. .Vesper No. 136.—Edd F. Devereaus, April 2; Samuel T. Hartzell, March 7; Albert M. Holston, Jan. 18; David J. Moore, July 20; George W. Sh.arp. May 24; Herman J. Templeton, Dec. 10; Samuel T. Tucker, Sept. 21. Cherryvale No. 137.—William Thompson, .Tan. , 1926; William H. Williamson. Jan. 8; Robert W. Burns, Feb. 5; Martin V. Soule, June 10; .James C. Cunningham, Oct. 20; George M. Seacat, Oct. 28; Joseph C. Witham. Nov. 6. Dover No. 13S.—Frank McDonald, Feb. 27; James D. Corbett, April 27; William J. Mansell, Dec. 2. Reno No. 11,0.—Thurman E. Belford, Oct. 22; Koy G. Briant, Dec. 10; William R. Cody, Nov. 1; Jarries Kelioe, Aug. 24; Felix T. Lefler, March 28; John W. Maguire. May 19; Peter A. Nelson, March 10; .loseph H. Shears, Sept. 25; Harry W. Sullivan, Sept. 12; Learaon J. White,.July IS. Signal No. 11,1.—John Oilman, Sr., Sept. 25; Gilbert P. Pierce, July 12. Newton No. Ilf2.—Luther Marion Baird, Sept. 19; John P. Deschner, Nov. ;i; Amos A. Graybill, May 16; Isaac Kinney. Sept. 1; James McKee, Sept. 'AO; William R. McNeil, Jan. '.i\ ; Thomas Randall, Aug. 3. Minneapolis No. 1J,3.—Albert D. Randall, Jan. 4; James F. Potterf, May 29. Gilead No. m.—John W. Depew, March .31; Thomas E. Wharton, May 17. Ml. Vernon No. 11,5.—Leonidas A. Kis.singer, Jan. 15; M. Roy Randall, Oct. 10; Thomas R. Randall. Nov. 17; James W. Rodgers, March 18; Isaac D. Young, Dec. 10. Ellsworth No. 11,6.—Edward A. Bowles. Jime 3; Nathaniel Harris, Nov. 27; Richard F. Malaby, May 25; Edmund Jacob Martin, Oct. 15; Hiram Schlichting, Oct. 6; Eli L. Sommers, Jan, 18; Thomas B. Wilson, Feb. 1; Harry Work, Dec. 25. Center No. 11,7.—Lewis E. Riggs, April 8; James W. Duncan, June 11. Wa-Keeney No. 11,8.—William D. Austin, Feb. 5; Frank D. Hastings, Oct. 4; James A. Winchester, Oct. 6. Thayer No. 1J,9.—Milton S. Elliott, March 22; John M. Diller, Dec. 16; William C. Higgins, Aug. 13; Loren A. Stall, May 25.
DEATHS—Continued. Wellington No. 150.—Conrad Albright, April 17; Charles H. Barnard, Feb. 6; Edward C. Bethard, Oct. 11; Henry S. Carter, Dec. 12: George H. Hunter, May 25; Orestes E. Osborne, July 9; Earl Ryan, March 3 ; John C. Sylvester, ; May 30; Henry Wagerle, June 23. Douglass No. 151.—Walter H. Douglass, April 6; Walter H. Hartenbower, Oct. 19; James C. McCoy, Dec. 26. Lebo No. 152.—William N. Lewis, Dec. 19. Luray No. 153.—Albert L. Hawliins, Aug. 17. Lincoln No. 15li.—Robert W. Elli.s, Jan. 4; Henry Kerr, Feb. 2.5; Henry M. Hall, March 17; Ashur E. Heller, Aug. 22; Jacob D. Miller, Nov. 24; Lyman J. Dunton. Nov. 25. Dexter No. 156.—Alexander Busey, June 29; Anson B. Moore, Oct. 26; William L. Reynolds, April 17; Samuel AValdorf, Feb. 12. Haven No. 157.—John W. Smith, March 18. AcHre Nc. 158.—Alexander F. Donald, Jan. 3; Fred Shippee, April 4; Duncan B. Kinniburgh, April 6; Edwin L.Hinds, June 22. Robinson No. 159.—John Bengtson, Feb. 24. Saqui No. 160.—Samuel Paul, March 12; Charles W. Eckman, Aug. 22; Edgar O. Henshall, Nov. 4. Alma No. 161.-—George H. Femmel, April 13; John M. Kemper, Jan. 20. Sabetha No. 162.—Ira F. Collins, Nov. 8. Greenwood No. 163.—John H. Tvey, April 13; James E. Robinson, July 20; Wallace M. Taylor, April 19. Atwood No. 16li.—Henry F. Clem, Oct. 2. Oxford No. 165.—Julus Anglo Hudson, Sept. 25; Frank P. Wright, Aug. 15. Far?7iers No. 166.—Lazarus Friedrick, April 30; Louis Kunze, May 29. Lamed No. 167.—James M. Davis, Feb. 20; Howard E. Paris, March 6; George K. Lee, April 2; James P. Reed, July 3; William H. Brinkman, Siept. 8; Fred D. Lloyd, Sept. 13. Blue Rapids No. 169.—Bernard T. Allerdice, Dec. 7; Edward L. Wilson, March 20. Fraternal No. 170.—Simon A. Bennett, Dec. 8; John W. Bennett, Dec. 12. Sterling No. 171.—Elza Potts, Jan. 14; Maurice C. Roy, Aug. 3; William H. Stites, July 21. McPherson No. 172.—Lee M. Trader, Feb. 4; John H. Oakes, July 10; Simon Kern, July 12; Benjamin F. Simpson, Aug. 7. Belle Plaine No. 173.—Robert L. Glover, Dec. 2; Harrison M. Hurt, Jan. 25; Sanford G. Jones, Dec. 5; Moses B?. Kilmer, Sept. 10; Asa J. Teague, Nov. 12.
DEATHS—Continued. • Weilern Star N^o. 17Jf.—David W. Poster, Jan. 4; Ralph D. Muxlow. Oct. 4; William R. Putnam, April 8; George W. Wood, Nov. 2. • Kirwin No. 175.—Aquilla R. Gross, July 7. Prairie Queen No. 176.—William B. Leceister, Aug. 31; Charles E. Haynes, Aug. 2. Russell No. 177.—Francis R. Culbertson, Jan. 4; James C . Smith, April 15. Burr Oak No. 178.—Thomas S. Mendenhall, Feb. 12. Mt. Moriah No. 179.—Charles B. Matteson, Oct. 25; Orley Roy Speirs, March 1. Lenora No. 181.—Hans Peterson, May 22; James S. Goodrich, Aug. 31; Henery Swendener, Nov. 14. Gaylord No. 183.—'RohevX, J. Coats, Aug. 23. Phillipsbvrg No. 18Jf.—Jasper N. Mcllvain, April 27; Albert W. Robertson, Jan. 2. Hamlin No. I S o . ^ J o h n F. Meyers, Feb. 19; Howard Green, Oct. 26. Mountain Slope No. 186.—Millard E. Mix, Jan. 17; Selden 1 Miner, Dec. 21. • Pittsburg No. J8~.—James M. Adams, Aug. 17; Thomas W. Coffey, June 11; .Tesse D. Clemens, Oct. 2; Chester A. Connet, .Tune'6; Othello C. Donahey, Oct. 17; Charles E. Hunter, March 16; Edward H. Klock.Feb. 10; Josiah B. Montonya, Oct. 1; John I. Morrison, Oct. 29; John W. Nichols, Oct. 2; Walter J. Nichols, Oct. 30; Fred H. Robbins, May 2; Shuble M. Shattuck, Aug. 13; Edward F. Sholtz, Oct. 1; Bennett D. Thompson, Jan. 7; Roy Trullinger, April7. Onaga No. 188.—Andrew McClellan, April 27; Samuel E. Lelnbach, Nov. 27. Newahcuba No. i 8 9 . ^ J o h n C. Foster, Jan. 3; Elbert Watson Winters, April 17; Charles F. Farf, May 5; Simon Lewis, Aug. 13. . s Henri No. 190.—Charles W. Phillips, May 8; Rufus C. Nance, Nov. 15. Royal JVo. 192.—.Toseph Beech, Nov. 29; Thomas Ainsworth, Sept. 6; Louis E. Vermillion, Aug. 15. .,. 'Hartford No. 193.—Albert Cummins, March 16.; James W., Edwards, April 20. -. Hays No. ISS.—Edgar S. Beach, Jan. 2; Charles A. Shively, Sept. 8; Robert B. Thomas, Oct. 27; Hill P. Wilson, Aug. 13. Canton No. 197.—Henrv J. Gorsulowsky, Jan. 6; Henry Newton Coons, March 2; Henrv D. Flitcraft, May 21; St. Claire Watts, July 11; Patrick M. Grattan, Nov. 26; John Gard, Dec. 5; Jasper J. Writer, March 23. Blue Hill No. 198.—William E. Ekey, June 28.
1
DEATHS—Continued. Norton No. 199.—Lyman A. Graves, ,luly 23; Henry Oliver, March 28; Jacob D. Thomp.son, March 12. . Anlhony No. 200.—.James .T. Bingham, .Ian. 1; .7ohn W. Olendenin, .Ian. 2.5: Frank l^ivermore, Dec. 6; Adolphus W. M.arteney, .Ian. 20. Mulvnne No. 201.—Nathan H. Bartlett, Nov. 11; William E. Dixon, Nov. 17; Chalky L. Reeder, April 5, Sumner No. Z03.—Carl W. Bownan, Aug. 21 ; Biven T. Franklin. April 22; Columbus Hall, Aug. 29. Downs No. ZOIi.—Alfred M. Cross, Aug. 27; Frank Daniel French, March 2.'5; Alfred .lackson, Nov. 24; George M. Wilson. Doc. 7. Harper No. 200.—Cecil M. Deist. April 1; Ferris O. Mott, April 9; Robert P. Ray. March 29. Occidental No. 207.—Arthur H, Goddard. Oct. 9; Howard H. Hall. Sept. 14; Leo Miller, May 9; Walter L. Stanton, June 24. Biookville No. 209.—Atlee E. Smith, May 8. Fulton No. 210.—Rile L. Harkness, Nov. 29; Sebastian C. Hatton, Oct. 10. Greeley No. 211.—Timothy H. Jones, May 27. Olive Branch No. 212.—Michel Swingley, May 28; Edward F. Ewing, Jan. 22; Peter C. Holzaltel, Dec. 22. Sincerity N^o. 21li.—rJohn Tromble, April 25. Walnut City No. 21a.—Frank A. Conard, May 7; Rudolph L. Frank, March 29. Ellinwood No. 217.—Amos Johnson, Nov. G. Landmark No. 218.—Frank M. Rockafeller, Dec. 8. Corner Stone No. 219.—John C. Bush, June 16; Hugh P. Frye. Oct. 16. Lewis No. 220.—Frank L. Besiline. Sept. 22; Austin B. Jennings, Sept. 18. Lebanon No. 221.—Robert Rickabaugh, March 30. St. Bernard No. 222.—Green A. Dewey. Aug. 23;1 William H. Gould, Jan. 3; Fred W. Lord, Aug. 17. Joppa No. 223.—Jerry J. McCarty, Feb. 20; Peter G. Losh. Oct. 15. Anchor No. 221).—William David Hopkins, Jan. 11. Siloam No. 225.—Samuel S. Beggs, Dec. 26. 1926: Samuel E. Cobb. Nov. 3: Richard S. Durell. April 10; Noble T. Foster. April 2; William S. Fulton, Aug. 23; Jacob B. Furry, May 25; Lee McGrath, Jan. 22; John B. McKee, Jan. 2; Merle C. Paynter, Sept. 19; John M. Wallace. Jan. 27. Salem No. 228.—William H. Huglison. Aug. 19; William A. Mendenhall. June 13; Walter J. Smith. Sept. 7. Vulcan No. 229.—Emmanuel Damerell. Feb. 11; W. Leon Mann. Sept. 24; William Wonn, Sept. 30.
DEATHS—Continued. Ninnescah No. 230.—Edward L. Reed, Dec. 1. Long Island No. 231.—John Parr, March 3 1 ; George Farrell, Sept. 19. Gieenleaf No. 232.—Elwood Armstrong, Oct. 14; Melvin N. Gardner, April 0; Charles C. Moore, Oct. 14. Clinton No. 233—George B. Darlington, June 27; Benjamin E. Sickles, Oct. :iO; Charles A. Tilton, March 9. Garfield No. 235.—William Karrigan, Jan. 1. Mount Hope No. 238.—Beeler Gibbins, May .3; Grover Taylor, July 28; John S. Salmon, Aug. 17. Urbana No. 230.—James T. Likens, Dec. 12. Linwood No. 2!il.—Alfred A. Bowen, Sept. 2:i; Hiram E. Harris, Sept. 26; Leonard O. .SchaiJley, Dec. 17. Millonvalc No. 2fi2.—David Ferguson, June 28. Waecrly No. 2Ji/,.—Charles E. Foster, Feb. 2H; John E. Kelly, Oct. 24; James M. Fanning, Dec. 22. Mannaton No. 2'i5.—Newton G. Brown, Doc. 10; Frank B. Shaw, Dec. 12. Tyrian No. 2Ji6.—Henry B. Burton. Dec. 11; James S. Grigg.s, Sept. 5; Henry F. Mason, May 4; Kobert W. Lynn, July 13. Canopy No. 2'iS.—Eddie T. Hand, Oct. 2.5; Bobert M. Lanyon, Oct. 9. Scotlsville No. 240.— F. Marion Gordon, Aug. 20. Whiting No. 2.50.—Nel.s J. Benthin, Aug. 24. Stafford No. 2.52.—Edward French, March 6; Warner E. Blackburn, Sept. 16; Abraham Sammon, .Ume 2; Joseph C. Charles, Dec. 26; Melvern F. Fowler, Dec. 31. Ionic No. 2.^4.—Jacob C. Koelsch, March 7; John Seelye, Feb. 21. Lyra No. 266.—Robert M. Boyd, Nov. .'>. Wesl7noreland No. 2.57.—John A. Pressler, July 12. Morion No. 258.—Claud E. Gillespie, Dec. R; William St. Clair, Sr., April 19; Waite C. Whitelavv, June 29. Beattie No. 259.—Ben F. McCoy, Dec. 28. Medicine Valley No. 260.—Thomas M. Parr, April 21. Mulberry No. 261.—George S. Bailey, Dec. 16. Charity No. 263.—William L. Welsh, April 20; John G. McAli.ster, June 9; George A. Walker, July 10. Logan No. 261f.—Jacob Fischli, Feb. 19; Richard H. Bundle, Dec. 22. Moline No. 267 -Frank C. Ashley, Oct. IS; Richard W^ Collier, Dec. 11.
DEATHS—Continued. Bourbon No. 208.—Thomas VV. Camac, Dec. 30; William D. Withers, .^iig. 10. Mistletoe No. 269.—.Jacob M. Moomaw, March 11; Edwin Crane, Nov. 19. Armourdalb No. 271.—William H. Briggs, .Tan. 1.3; William C. Haverstick, Nov. 4; Setli A. Matteson, .Ian. 7; Charles A. Miller, Feb. 22; John W. Mobley, April 2.5; Richard N. Tibbits, .Ian. 22. Kaw No. 272—George P. Barthie, July 0; Thomas C. Benson,' Sept. 10; .Andrew Blaine, June 2:i; John H. Gray, Sept. 2; Reuben Silverman, Nov. 1(1; Thomas A. Stewart, Aug. 7; William H. Ward, April 11; John E. White, March 1. Webb No. 27.').—Robert A. Harper, .Tune 4: David Parmlee McCampbell, March 7; James Madison Mathis, Dec. 2. Ashland No. 277.—Daniel K. Snyder, Feb. G; Abraham P. Tilley, .June 27. Cosmos No. 27S.—Harry E. Matthews, Dec. •iO, 1920. Barney No. 270.—Henry E. Tolbert, Jan. 10; William Durr, May 14; James U. McCoy, May 31. Millhrook No. 281.—Nathaniel Crank, Feb. 21; B. F. Poston, May 7. Alpha No. 282.—Charles W. Teed, July 28. Preston No. 283.—John A. Evans. March 14. Anthem No. 28Ji.—James H. Drain, May 1.5. Lotus No. 2S6.—Henry C. Scamon, Oct. 18. Cyrus No. 288.—John Heidenreich, Oct. 31. Emerald. No. 289.—James T. Eyman, Jan. 17; Stephen R. McConnon, March 22; Charles E. Lauck, May 4; Isaiah B. Warthen, Feb. 1.5. Paradise No. 290.—Benjamin F. McCarroll, Feb. 12; James W. Gilbert, Nov. 23. Beulah No. 291.—Arthur Bechtel,- July 29; Ray Cooper, Nov. 9. Glasco No. 292.—James Taylor, Sept. 0; William A. Hillhouse. Dec. 10. Comanche iVo. 29.').—Charles F. Biddle, March 29; John .1. Overstreet, Feb. .5; John E. Todd, April 0. Apollo No. 297.— David R. Stoner, April 17. •Samaria No. 298.—Henry High. April 1.5. Cable No. 299.—Bruce Donaker, Dec. •5; Walter Mclver, May 9. Fargo No. 300.—Abe Shumate, Nov. 23. Hamilton No. 301.—John H. Francis, Oct. 14.
DEATHS—Continued. Albert Pike No. 303.—Orsenus H. Bentley, Jan. 22; John L. Bowdish, Sept. 2; Samuel A. Buckland. Dec. 31, 1926; Samuel S. Carter, Jan. 6; Tipton Cox, April 28; Deming T. Day, Aug. 28; Samuel E. Eaton, Nov. 21; Oliver E. Poulke, Marchfl; Bert M. Grant, Jan. 28; JamesL. Harvey, May 2,5; Prank Kelly, Oct. 9; Augustus G-. McCormick, April 17; Benjamin L. Mann, July 9; Artemas L. Neikirk, Dec. 5; Claude P. Rogers, July 13; Nelson H. Rowley, .fune 7; Raleigh O. Sidles, Oct. 30; Isaac N. Singer, March 18; William Henry Snyder, Oct. 30; Burt L. Whitlock, Nov. 3; Albert G. Whitney, Dec. 8; William S. Woolf, . Oct. 6. Randall No. 30A.—James L. Trussell, March 5. Avon Nc. 30.5.—Clossen C. Scott, Dec. 5. St. Thomas No. .306.—Ernest Boerner, March 17; Severt E. Higgins, May 1. Kansas No. 307.—James L. Alderson, Jan. 2; Maurice E. Dicks, Oct. 5; James Haire, Aug. 29; Albert L. Shuler, Sept. 20; E. Manuel M. Stiles, Sept. 18; Ernest A. Sumner, July 2. Syracuse No. 309.—^Govan C. Mills, Sept. 13; Alfred Pratt, Dec. 4. Hancock No. 311.—Lochlin "VV. CafTey, Jr., Dec. 11; Ernest B. Ellis, Nov. 14; John A. Malterer, Aug. 16; John B. McDonald, March 15; Hans O. Olson, Nov. 14; Max Pollner, May 2; Robert A. Young, Jan. 30. Severance No. 313.—Squire L. Carpenter, Jan. 2. Virginia No. 315.—William W. Moffttt, Sept. 30. Coolidqe No. 316.—James M. Garrity, April 9; John A. Shan. Strom, May 10. Norcalur No. 317.—Edward M. Elliott, Feb. 1. Norwich No. 319.—Samuel D. Adklns, . VermilHon No. 320.—John V. Scott, Jan. 29; John H. Griebe, May 21. Goodland No. 321.—Karl H. Nordman, Oct. 14. Ben Hur No. 322.—Howard N. Calderwood, Nov. 10; John N. Caldwell, Oct. 19; Richard W. Cumraings, J u n e 2 1 ; Thomas L. James, Sept. 9; William Phillips, July 1; Robert J. Treffry, March 21. Oneida No. 323.—Jesse Janey Russell, March 3. Caney No. 32Jf.—Grover C. Shannon, Aug. 4. LaHarpe No. 325.—Fielding P. Stapleton, July.20. Horlon No. 326.—Gus Bitzer, March 15; James C. Braley, March 27; John M. Braley, April 24; Charles W. Bridgeman, Jan. 22; George L. Forbes, Aug. 4; Herman P. Madsen, Oct. 11; Glenn S. Smith, Aug. 13. Hoyt No. 327.—Forrest C. Hummer, Aug. 10; Carl P. Schuster, July 3, Gypsum City No. 328.—Abraham A. Bartells, —; .
DEATHS—Continued. La Crosse Na. 330.—James Benbow, .lime 3; Allen S. Jones, Oct. 9; Alexander Latter, Sept. 13. Hoisinolon No. 331.—George N. Bickncll, Sept. .S. Roiedale No. 333.—Frank J. Abbey, .Tan. 20; AVilliam I. Davis, June 12; Thomas J. Hall, May IS; AVilliam E. Harvey, Dar,. 10; John B. Mackoy, March I; Charles E. McMurray, Feb. 22. Oak Hill No. 33 J,.—H. F . Malcolm, Feb. 7; Robert Fyfe, ?.'ov. 15. Frederick No. 337.—Fred G. Ivoestle, June 2.5. Parker No. 3J,t.—William J. Cantrell, May 1; Rufus W. De.xter, Aug. 1; Forest R. Hime, .lune 1. Maple City No. 3Jt2.—George A. Sutton, Dec. 9. Ashlar No.SH-—Lester L. Johnson, Nov. 22. Moundridae No. 3J,6.—Phillip J. Buehler, Sept. 5; Chris C. Kaegi; April 21. Hoxie No. 3iS.—J. Qinncy Morris, l<"eb. 14. Narka No. SJ/O.—Rommie C. Prather, .Tan. 0. Scammon No. 3ol.—Robert W. Roundtree, June 9, 1925; Marcus Schlanger, Nov. 23. Horace No. 3.52.—Bruce A. Russell, Dec. 6. Marquette No. 3.i3.—Charles Tj. Jury, April 19. Summerfield No. Soli.—Charles Edward Tait, Feb. • ; David C. Dodds, Dec. 18. Chautauqua No. 35i.—John P . Tabler, Aug. 14. Wellsville No. 356.—James H. Perry. July 19. Turon No. .3.58.—George H. Goodenough, Jan. 17; Giles T. Dooley, March 12; Frank M. Colglazier, May 29. Jennings No. 360.—-Charles W. Bainter, June'14; "William "W. Tyrrell, Jan. 8. Cuba No. 362.—J. E. Woodhouse, Jan. .3; FrediSigel Long, March 7; Edward E. Peterka. Dec. 20. Valley Center No. 364.—James H. Ball, Dec. 4; Josh A. Lavender, Aug. 19; Morris B. Scott, Oct. 7; Charles W. Simmons, June 21. Baling No. 365.—Edwin S. Wood, Feb. 18. Bonner SpriuQS No. 366.—Frank T. Walker, April S; Samuel AT. Coleman, April 13; George AT. Elliott, July 12. Roger E. Sherman No. 360.—Edwin F. Bushnell, March 14 Robert A. Drown, Jan. 1; John Harden Divine, Oct. IS Frederick E. Mathews, Aug. 20; Cordie F. Pease, Sept. 4 Thomas M. Russell, March 31; AViley B. Short, April 21 Ira E. ATomack, Nov. 5. Maple Hill No. 370.—-Samuel S. Smith, Oct. IS. Macksville No. 371.—Timothy DeBusk, Oct. 26; Henry D. Green, April 30.
DEATHS—Continued. Morrill No. 373.—Isaac B. Hiatt, July IS. Grand View No. 376.—Gleaveland W. Mills, April 10; Daniel Stewart, March 10. Waldron No. 377.—Joel D. Davis, July 6. Zenda No. 378.—Sylvester C. Wheeler, April 29. Buffalo No. 379.—O. Frank Puckett, June 16. White Oily No. 380.—Arthur J. Butts, March 3. McDonald No. 383.—Alah Green, Jan. 21; George F. Howard, Aug. 22; Daniel S. McCreery, July 6. Frecpoit No. 389.—Simon T. Brooke, Sept. 27. N^alotna No. 390.—Sebastian L. Bowlby, Jan. 13. Sylvia No. 391.—Samuel W. McComb, Dec. 5. Coats No. 39J,.—Claud Keller, Dec. 21. Saffordvillc No. 395.—William A. Albin, May IS. Melody No. JfOO.—Henry L. Stonohill, Aug. 25; Alexander Haggart, Dec. o. Wakarusa No. /f02.-^Thomas J. Reaves, Dec. 13. Hugoton No. Jf06.—William T. Gunn, Dec. 31. Arma No. If08.—Thomas McEwan, Feb. 18; Henry Leigh, Aug. 9. Haviland No. 409.—Daniel E. Winters, Jan. 19; Jeremiah Evans, April 18. Wilmore No. Jil2.—Henry Baker, Sept. 27; Edward C. Hastings, April 30; Jay T. Smith, Oct. 27. Ensign No. J^13.—Newton Green, Jan. . Morland No. iH.—Samuel Herren, Jan. 19. Perry No. klo.—Robert M. McClure, April 20; Ernest L. Raines, June 15. King David Nc. 416.—Hubert C. Defflbaugh, April 24; Robert M. Green, July 20; Lee Osborn, Nov. 0; Isaac N. Phipps, Jan. 20. Sharon Springs No. 1)17.—Howard Cain. Aug. 29. Pretty Prairie No. 428.—Almon H. Barton, April 6. Bestor G. Brown No. 433.—John M. Naramore, Aug. 4; Merton A. Shober, Dec. 7. Rosalia No. 434.—Carl A. Myers, March 31, Ulysses No. 435 —Harry Lee Gapen, Sept. 3. Overland Park No. 436.—Grant J. Couser, June 22. Kanoradc Nc. /(.((.?.—Henry Hartstine, July 24, Hutchinson No. 445.—Samuel S. Graybill, June 5.
3ln iHifmnrtam.
m^antdaa 2Ctrby, PAST GRAND MASTER OF ARKANSAS, Died AujiuBt 20, 1926.
iHacob ©riebsr, PAST GRAND MASTER OF ARKANSAS. Died September 17, 1927.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF COLORADO. Died March 11, 1927.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF COLORADO. Died July 2, 1927.
Jin iH^moriam.
PAST GRAND MASTEK OF COLORADO. I>ied September 29, 1927.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF DELAWARE. I>ie<l December 5, 1926.
if, Paul iEuk^ns, PAST GRAND MASTER OF WELAM'AKE. l>iecl September 6, 1927.
(georgf Majjti^ui
Maultatty
PAST GRAND MASTER OF ILLINOIS. Died .Inly 21, 1927.
Jin iH^mnnam.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF INDIANA. Died June 13, 1927.
Ifant^a 5Be SCalb Clatttblc, PAST GRAND MASTER OF lOM'A. Died November 23, 1926.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF MICHIGAN. Died April 26, 1927.
Antbroae 59. C o u n t r y m a n , PAST GRAND MASTER OF MINNESOTA. Died February 2.3, 1927.
Stt MemBvinm. l$nul H a r r i n g t o n iHSnrpify, PAST GRAND MASTER OF MISSISSIPPI. Died October 1,1927.
Al«xanJ»^r Monrop iSorkery, PAST GRAND MASTER OF MISSOURI. Died December 36, 1926.
§ a m n H M. Slanglyornp, PAST GRAND MASTER OF MONTANA. Died January ^, 1927.
^tsbstick
Cijarlca J3l»bat»r,
PAST GRAND MASTER OF MONTANA. Died June 14, 1927.
b
9n il^mnnatn.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF NEVADA. Died November 8, 1926.
fEtiuiard 3 . fflan&erlictl?, GRAND SECRETARY OF NEVADA. Died December 18, 1926.
iKrank IBBU, PAST GRAND MASTER OF NEVADA. Died February 13, 1927.
ike M . iEobtttaan, PAST GRAND MASTER OF OHIO. .
Died March 24, 1927.
3ln M^mannm.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF OHIO. Died September 11, 1937.
FAST GRAND MASTER OF OHIO. Died October 21, 1927.
SSr^ntrant ©an iBua^n, PAST GRAND MASTER OF OREGON. Died October 20, 1926.
dnnxes ^ulUttatt
SlobtrtBon,
PAST GRAND MASTER AND PAST GRAND SECBETABY OF OREGON. Died December 2, 1926.
LL
31n iE^mortam.
PAST^GRAND MASTER OF PENNSYLVANIA. Died September 9, 1926.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF SASKATCHEWAN. Died February 18, 1927.
Edgar i3. ^rooktttan, PAST GRAND MASTER OF SOUTU DAKOTA. Died March 31, 1927.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF TEXAS. Died October 11, 1927.
3ln il^mortam.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF WASHINGTON. Died December 23, 1926.
iKnI?n M. iMc<EontJ|ag, PAST GRAND MASTER OF WEST VIRGINIA. Died November 2, 1926.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF WEST VIRGINIA. Died June 18, 1927.
iaifiltam Slaylor ]a9orktttan, GRAND MASTER OF WEST VIRGINIA. Died October 17. 1927.
APPENDIX.
REPORT ON CORRESPONDENCE. BY A L B E R T
K . WILSON, CHAIRMAN.
To the M.:W.: Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: The following review of Proceedings includes those of all other Grand Jurisdictions with which we are in fraternal correspondence, except Idaho and nine Central and South American countries. The statistical tables at the close of this report show a net gain in the United States of 51,969 (not including our own jurisdiction, the annual reports not being due at the time this review goes to the printer), while last year the net gain was 81,118. From this it will be observed that our net gain was 29,149 less than one year ago. While this net gain of 51,969 is the smallest within the past twelve years there is nothing alarming when we take into consideration the wonderful Influx during and immediately following the late war, which naturally raised the net increase to the highest peak within the history of the Craft in this country. This Is better explained In the following table, showing the net increase in the United States for each year during the past twelve years: 1916 65,982 1917 72,432 1918 91,950 1919 109,906 1920 185,898 1921 272,145 1922 228,926 1923 139,373 1924 118,796 1925 111,062 • 1926 81,118 1927 51,969 We believe, however, that while we are naturally drifting to a normal condition, yet with the increase in population In this country the showing should be better, and as indicated by the writer one year
4
CORRESPONDENCE—INTRODUCTION.
February,
ago we believe that in a measure the present condition is largely due to a lack of interest on the part of our votaries, which is manifested through attendance at the Communications of the Lodges. There is, of course, to be taken into consideration the importuning of new members to become members of soine of the other organizations presuming to p/edicate their membership on Ancient Craft Masonry, even to the extent of soliciting them before they have received all three degrees, which naturally detracts from the interest in Ancient Craft Masonry. Such practice is reprehensible and a continuance of the same will no doubt, in the course of time, compel Grand Lodges to exercise their inherent right to protect the Masonic affiliation of their members. Fraternally submitted, ALBERT K . WILSON,
Chairman. As the Masonic fraternity has always been recognized and distinguished on account of its formality and dignified methods of conducting its affairs, it certainly is in poor taste for some of its Grand Secretaries to use the rubber stamp method of attaching their signatures to official communications and documents. If the Grand Secretary is too busily engaged in other duties to give the necessary time to properly sign his name to his correspondence the task should be assigned to some responsible assistant.
The last Proceeding reviewed was that of Wyoming and we note the Grand Secretary, like a number of others, indicates the date for holding their Annual Communication by stating that it is to be held on the third Wednesday in August, 1928, leaving the writer of the Report on Correspondence to appeal to a calendar to find out the particular date on which theif annual meeting is held. We look upon this as rather a lazy man's way of doing things as it certainly is not always convenient to the average brother who is.seeking the date for the next Grand Lodge, to have a calendar at hand.
The question of dual or plural membership seems to be uppermost in the minds of some of our brethren and like many other topics of the day is considered from a sentimental rather than a business point
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—INTRODUCTION.
5
of view. It certainly is not based upon the success attained in the few jurisdictions practicing this system; in other words, such jurisdictions have no knowledge whatever as to the number of members oh their rolls, which in itself should be considered of great importance to any Grand Jurisdiction. So far, the writer has been unable to ascertain the advantages, if any, to be derived from such practice. With an experience of almost thirty-five years as Grand Secretary ^ he possesses sufficient knowledge along these lines to justify the statement that the adoption of this dual or plural membership proposition will demoralize, if not totally destroy, the splendid record of membership as now kept by the Grand Lodges of the United States and some jurisdictions outside of this country. We readily understand that in case of sickness or impaired health one seeks relief through a physician or treatment through other sources to remedy the ailment, and it would therefore be extremely foolish to call for this help if we were enjoying the best of health and were physically and mentally properly functioning. Why does not the same theory apply concerning this proposed dual or plural membership proposition? At this day, in all affairs in life—commercial, financial, professional, educational or otherwise—^statistics and correct accounting are indispensible. The day of a haphazard system has passed and it is no less important that in Masonry we should have not only a correct accounting in the fiscal departments, but also an equally correct accounting of the membership. With no disposition to prolong this subject the writer will offer but few comments. In the earliest General Regulations, those of 1723, it was specifically provided that no brother shall belong to more than one lodge within the Bills of Mortality. This Regulation, however, was confined only to lodges in England within a certain geographic district. The custom, however, fell into disuse later on and from that time until the present the United Grand Lodge of England has been absolutely unable to furnish any authentic figures on their membership. The practice of dual membership is followed in the Grand Jurisdictions of Ireland, Scotland and several others, none of which possess any system of tabulating their membership; indeed, it would be impossible for them to do so when we take into consideration the privilege granted members to join several lodges.
6
CORRESPONDENCE—INTRODUCTION.
February.
The writer has noted that in practically all cases where this system is advocated the promoters are defending it on the basis that it will do ho harm. One writer ridicules the idea that a member might hold office in several lodges and thereby have an advantage in voting in Grand Lodge. Under the system of dual membership why should a brother not hold offices in several lodges and be thereby entitled to more than one vote in the Grand Lodge? It is further argued that where a brother is a member of several lodges his suspension or expulsion would apply in all. We rise to answer this by asking a question: How would the other lodges receive this information, not knowing in what other lodges the brother held membership? Further, how many lodges would receive this information even if they knew where the brother's several memberships were held, when you take into consideration the carelessness of the average Secretary? The advocates of this system likewise claim that the practice of dual membership would increase the attendance of lodges rather than have the opposite effect. Taking into consideration the average attendance at Lodge Communications today we leave the question of the judgment of such advocates to the thinking Mason and those who read this report. As a conclusion to this proposition, one writer presumes to say that facts demonstrate that the more lodges a brother belongs to the more constant is his attendance upon all. A more magnificent display of a lack of knowledge of conditions could not be imagined. Another argument in support of this proposition, which is manifestly an injustice to.many Grand Lodges, including our own, is the statement that where a brother moves away from his lodge he must terminate his membership in that lodge before he can become a mernber elsewhere. This statement is not applicable in many jurisdictions today as we have a system of transferring membership by means of certificates so that a brother's membership is protected in the mother lodge, in case he is rejected on his application accompanied by the certificate. This argument is defective in another respect as dual membership would not prevent the rejection of a brother any more than if he were a member of only one lodge. The same system of transferring membership applies in the establishment of new lodges and therefore does not jeopardize the brother's membership.
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—INTRODUCTION.
7
I t is also stated that unless a brother is a member of the particular lodge he desires to visit from time to time he never feels quite at home. If this be true then we must eliminate the claim of the universality of Masoiiry. The writer's experience along these lines is quite to the contrary of the one advocating dual membership. To his personal knowledge many brethren are enjoying the fellowship of members in lodges to which they do not belong, preferring to remain a member of their mother lodge on account of a warm feeling of kinship, or because in that particular lodge they have been made life members or served as Masters. We maintain that the visiting or- attendance upon the Communications of lodges by brethren not members of that particular lodge is the strongest argument in favor of the universality of Freemasonry. Therefore there would be no more advantage to one being a member of two or more lodges than one, or in other words, to carry out the argument in favor of dual membership, one would of necessity have to be a member of all lodges, and then it resolves itself again into the question of the universality of Freemasonry. Another statement concerns groups of employes in factories and the like, forming Masonic clubs, which would not be the case if dual membership were practiced as they would then organize Masonic lodges instead of clubs. This we know to be thoroughly impracticable as places and conditions might be.favorable for a Masonic club but far from suitable for a Masonic lodge. It is also stated that the supreme Masonic authority has no control over clubs and the like, which is not correct as the Masonic scholar well knows that Grand Lodges possess the inherent right to govern and control the Masonic affiliation of members. Reference is also made to members in England forming themselves into lodges according to their profession or business. While this statement is true, yet it must be remembered that such lodges are established not for the purpose of doing Masonic work, but for social and other objects. A member, therefore, under these conditions enjoys the same privilege of visiting other lodges as one who belongs to a working lodge. One writer presumes to say that it is claimed by many that all argument in favor of dual membership is based on sentiment, and frankly admits that such is the case, yet in defense of his argument in favor of this proposition he states that sentiment goes for a good deal in Masonry. We admit that sentiment does go for a good deal in Masonry, but its influence has been toward the demoralization of our
8
CORRESPONDENCE—INTRODUCTION.
February.
time honored Institution rather than its upbuilding. Sentiment, for several years, on account of the late war, flooded our lodges with undesirable material and today the deplorable condition in loss of membership through suspension is the aftermath. One surprising statement made by a supporter of this proposition is that the lodges in the United States have departed from tradition and custom of the rest of the Masonic world. This statement proves beyond a question of doubt that the supporters of this proposition are poorly versed in Masonic history and the Ancient Charges and Regulations of the Institution because there is no more connection between Masonic tradition and custom in deaHng with this subject than there is between the Constitution of the United States and the Bills of Mortality. • As we have been favored with a copy of the Proceedings of the " Conference of Grand Masters of Masons in the United States," held in Washington, February 23, 1927, we feel justified as a matter of information to our readers to again refer to this subject. We find on opening this pamphlet a group picture, presumably taken in the grounds of the White House, and among these distinguished brethren we see a likeness of President COOLIDGE, although as the writer understands it, he is not a member of our Ancient Craft. We anticipate others in the picture were included on account of their official connection with the government and not because they were a part of this organization. The subject of a Conference of Grand Masters is not a new one, as set forth in our report one year ago, but like some of the more contagious diseases, it subsides for a time and then breaks out anew. In earlier times such gathering was termed a Masonic Congress, and while from a Masonic historical point of view it is one of the modern creations, yet the records show that it was started about 1859, almost seventy years ago. It seems the next meeting was held in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1861, to which our Grand Lodge was invited; however, by resolution they declined the invitation. Other meetings were held in 1866, 1888 and 1893, and the present o/ganization, under the name of Conference of Grand Masters of Masons in the United States, came into existence in recent years. ' In the organization of these associations it was always claimed that the purpose for their existence did not contemplate the organization of a
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—INTRODUCTION.
9
supreme or governing Grand Lodge, neither was.it the purpose to attempt an infringment upon the sovereign and undisputed rights of each Grand Lodge. Other assurances along these lines were made as an argumentin favor of, or excuse for the creation of this gathering. The present Conference began in a very modest manner, the occasion being limited very largely to a social gathering, accompanied by the usual festivities. Eventually, however, topics dealing with the more important transactions of the several Grand Lodges were presented and discussed in the meetings. The way having been opened, opportunity was given to those who had spent much of their time of late years in visiting Grand Lodges other than their own (largely for the purpose of advertising and propagating outside organizations), to submit topics looking toward uniform legislation. Among these topics we note one on the subject of uniform receipts for payment of dues, presented by the Grand Master of New Hampshire (a jurisdiction not recognized by the Grand Lodge of Kansas). This brother suggested the appointment of a committee to assemble data on this subject. Such committee was appointed and the brother in question was made chairman. Another topic presented by a brother was that of Interjurisdictional Relief, in which it was suggested that the amount of emergent relief given to be within the discretion of the "acting body". We do not understand the term "acting body" unless it refers to the particular Grand Lodge interested, and in which case they would act according to their own best judgment and require no dictation from an outside and self-constituted organization. Another question presented was along the line of uniform legis-. lation concerning the disciplining of members for unmasonic conduct. Those familiar with Masonic jurisprudence in the several Grand Jurisdictions realize that any proposition looking toward uniformity of law on this subject woiild meet the same fate as any proposed bill in the legislatures of the several states of the Union suggesting a uniform law governing all criminal cases. Another committee was appointed to take up with the several Grand Jurisdictions questions concerning membership and non-payment of dues. Among the questions submitted we note one asking whether a member suspended in one lodge could be elected' to membership in another lodge without first being restored. It is hard to conceive of any body of T H I N K I N G Masons asking such a question.
10
CORRESPONDENCE—ALABAMA.
February,
Another question submitted was whether a suspended member, if elected to membership in some other jurisdiction before being restored would be recognized b y the lodges in our jurisdiction.
The writer
cannot imagine what regulations now existing in any jurisdiction would justify this question as the test oath administered in all lodges where a brother desires to visit would absolutely exclude him from Masonic relations with his brethren. One communication from a committee appointed by this Conference asked whether our jurisdiction would be willing to adopt certain forms prescribed b y t h a t organization. The foregoing is submitted as conclusive evidence that this Conference is tending more and more annually to a supreme or sovereign Grand Lodge.
ALABAMA —1926. Lodges, 579; members, 54,538; net gain, 548. Montgomery, November 30, 1926. OLIVER DAY STREET, M.-. W.-. Grand Master. Our Grand Representative was not present at this Communication. We are pleased to quote the following interesting words from the preface to the Grand Master's address: Another thing I should like to impress upon them is that all the wisdom or knowledge of Masonry is not contained in any one head or number of heads. If often happens that those who are least conspicuous in assemblages like this could offer the most useful suggestions biit for the supposition on their part that the talkative ones know it all. To each member and delegate I wish to say the floor is yours a t all proper times and for all proper purposes. Give us the benefit of your views. Do not hestitate for fear they may not prove acceptable. Grand Lodges have been known to reject what is good. So, if you have any grist, do not hesitate to p u t it into the mill and meanwhile let us all hope that the turn out will be good. What I am trying to get home to you is that this is your Grand Lodge as wall as ours. Still I am not sure that we are doing our duty by those we are receiving. Are we impressing upon them the lessons which Masonry seeks to teach? Are we making it the chief end and aim of Masonry to develop each individual Mason into the very best man possible or are we being distracted by the many reform movements and enterprises commendable in themselves which we see Grand Lodges and Masonic bodies undertaking? Good as these other things are, we should never lose sight of the fact that the chief purpose of Masonry and the chief apology for its existence is to take the living stone in its crude and unpolished state and make of it a stone fit to go into the erection of that house not made with hands. In other words, its chief work is making men. Masonic homes. Masonic schools, Masonic relief work, educational projects et cetera are a t best only incidental. When you have "made a Mason" of a man do not turn him loose and deceive both him and yourself into the idea that the work is complete. Try
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—ALABAMA.
11
to stimulate his interest and curiosity to learn more about the Craft. If you can get these once sufficiently aroused, he will educate himself MasonicaUy. There is not a phase or aspect of human life that is not touched upon and elucidated and beautified by Masonry if only one will labor with sufBcient diligence in search of its hidden lessons. Let us not fail in our duty to the other undertakings of the Craft but surely let us discharge our chief duty which is to make real men of our members. I t seems to be the habit of Grand Masters to place their fingers on the public pulse and then inform the Craft of the worst symptom they think they can find. If I had to venture an opinion as to the most discouraging one I find, it would not be the Increase in murders, highway robberies, boot-legging, or crime in general. It would be the disposition so prevalent and conspicuous everywhere to do the least and poorest work for the most pay. The prevailing watch-word is " G e t by." Interest in an employer's business or pride in the quality of one's own work is with a very large and increasing percentage of the people wholly lacking. The idea is do just enough to keep from getting fired. There is constantly increasing clamor for shorter hours and fewer days work, not in.order to give more time for self-improvement but more time for idleness and joy-riding, and other frivolities, not to say in many instances for dissipation and vice. The experiences of mankind have crystallized into two aphorisms which condemn utterly tliis indolent and shirking spirit. They are "Idleness is the devil's work-shop" and "There is no excellence without great labor." There is nothing in the Bible truer than these sayings. Modern prophets who think differently are not wiser than all the sages of the past. GOD knew how to keep us out of devilment, how to keep us progressing and that is by keeping us at work. The man or nation that falls into idleness is going to fall behind in the race of progress. This slovenly, lazy, frivolous, or indifferent spirit just described gets no encouragement from Masonry. Most of its symbols are implements of labor; its very name is a sjTionym of labor. I t says much for the beauty and dignity as well as utility cf labor, but no where has a word of approval for idleness or for a disposition to slight one's work. Young man, young brother, at a time when everyone else seems bent on pleasure, there could bo no more favorable time for you to w'ork. We notice the Grand Master granted a special dispensation for one of their lodges to mortgage its property for the purpose of remodeling and improving its Temple. This action would indicate that the Grand Lodge of Alabama controls the destinies of their lodges in the matter of ownership of property, which to the writer is a mighty good thing and worthy of imitation in other Grand Jurisdictions, our own not excepted. Seventeen lodges failed to hold their election at the constitutional time and therefore called upon the Grand Mastei- for special authority. Concerning incompetent secretaries, the Grand Master had the following to offer: Much of the correspondence received by me during the year indicates that the only qualifications required by many lodges to be possessed by those chosen as secretary of the lodge are carelessness and incompetency. The ignorance and unfitness of many of these so-called secretaries is truly astonishing. They can neither write, spell, punctuate, nor compose and have not the slightest idea of.form. How they can keep an intelligible minute or a correct record of collections made and the dispositions of the funds or conduct the most meagre correspondence of the lodge is a mystery to me. They may be and no doubt are excellent men and Masons, but this, one of the most important offices in a lodge, should not be committed into the hands of an incompetent brother.
12
CORRESPONDENCE—ALABAMA.
February.
[ have no doubt the death of many a lodge is traceable to an incompetent and unsuitable secretary. Let me impress on the lodges, if possible, that next to the Master and Tiler, the Secretary is the most vital factor in the prosperity of the lodge. I t will be interesting t o our readers t o learn t h a t t h e G r a n d M a s t e r a p p r o v e d t h e physical qualifications of a c a n d i d a t e whose right leg w a s off below t h e k n e e . C o m m e n t i n g o n t h e question t h e G r a n d M a s t e r s t a t e d t h a t t h e petitioner h a d " f a i r " use of a n artificial leg. Such action on t h e p a r t of t h e G r a n d M a s t e r is reflected in s o m e other G r a n d J u r i s d i c t i o n s . However, t o t h e notion of t h e writer t h e m a k i n g of a M a s o n of one w h o is so u n f o r t u n a t e as t o lose a limb r e m i n d s t h e writer of a n old s t o r y wherein a question w a s raised as t o t h e fitness' of a m a n w h o w a s deprived of o n e of his a r m s t o be a s t o n e c u t t e r . T h e q u e s t i o n was s u b m i t t e d t o t h e individual himself w h o replied t h a t h e held t h e chisel i n his m o u t h a n d s t r u c k himself- o n t h e b a c k of t h e h e a d with t h e mallet in preparing t h e stone for i t s i n t e n d e d use. A letter w a s received b y t h e G r a n d S e c r e t a r y from a clergyman of w h a t is k n o w n a s t h e American Catholic C h u r c h , soliciting funds, which was referred t o t h e G r a n d M a s t e r , w h o m a d e reply t h e r e t o as follows: Your letter of August 17th addressed to Mr. GEORGE A. BEAUCHAMP. Montgomery, Alabama, who is Grand Secretary of Masons in Alabama, has been referred to me as Grand Master. Masonry is not a religion or sect or denomination: it is neither Catholic nor Protestant in the narrow sense of those terms. Its spirit is distinctly religious but it is not sectarian nor dogmatic. I t concedes to every man entire freedom of conscience in all matters religious, except our Grand Lodge, in common with most others, exacts a belief in Deity. Masons believe in an entire separation of Church and State. We do not make war on the Roman Catholic Church as a religion but its constant efforts to interfere with political matters meets our opposition. We would and do oppose that in any other church and there are other churches beside the Roman Catholic that are offenders against the wise policy of churches keeping out of politics. 1 fear nearly all of them offend to some extent. It would be contrary to Masonic policy for a Grand Lodge of Masons as a body to contribute money to the promotion of the spread of the doctrines or policy of any church. The most I can do is to say that I have read your letter and the accompanying leaflet outlining the doctrines and policies of your church. As Masons we are not concerned with its doctrines, but its policies, as stated by you, seem to be no where in conflict with sound Masonic principles and practices. AVe are, therefore, well-wishers to your efforts for good wherever exerted. T h e fee from each i n i t i a t e for t h e benefit of t h e M a s o n i c H o m e was raised from $3.00 t o $10.00. T h e proposition was s u b m i t t e d t o t h e lodges a n d t h e v o t e resulted in 424 voting in t h e affirmative, 150 in t h e n e g a t i v e a n d 8 failed t o t a k e action. U n d e r t h e laws of K a n s a s t h e l a t t e r would h a v e lost their c h a r t e r for failure t o v o t e on a constitutional amendment. As an i n t e r e s t i n g a n d pleasing incident a t t h i s C o m m u n i c a t i o n we n o t e t h a t t h e G r a n d Lodge p a u s e d long enough during t h e i r deliberations t o go t o refreshment for t h e purpose of receiving a delegation of an organization designated " Order of t h e R a i n b o w for Girls " . W e stil!
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—ALBERTA.
13
maintain that our southern brethren have a weakness for the fair sex. Brother F R E D WALL prepared the usual Report on Correspondence,
which covers a brief review of our 1926 Proceedings. OLIVER DAY STREET, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, Guntersville. GEORGE A. BEAUCHAMP, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, Montgomery. FRED WALL, Correspondent, Athens.
Next Annual, Montgomery, December 6, 1927.
ALBERTA —1927, Lodges, 147; m e m b e r s , 13,035; n e t gain, 3 6 3 . Calgary, J u n e 8, 1927. T . F . E N G L I S H , M . - . W . " . G r a n d M a s t e r . M.'. W.'. B r o t h e r SAM J . B L A I R , o u r G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e , w a s present. t^-We a r e pleased t o q u o t e t h e following from t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s address: I tender you my hearty welcome to this twenty-second annual communication of our Grand Lodge and I offer you my congratulations that so many of us, who met together a year ago, are once more, through GOD'S infinite goodness, privileged to be here present to exchange the brotherly grip and wish one another future comfort, .happiness and prosperity. Years are passing, age is advancing, but the heart does not feel deadened, nor is the gladness lessened that is felt in shaking each other by the hand again. Some one has written: "Sweet is the liour that-brings us home, When all will spring to meet us; Where hands are striving, as we come. To be the first to greet us." U n d e r " V i s i t a t i o n s " a m o n g other t h i n g s h e h a d t h e following t o say: The number of lodges in the jurisdiction has so increased that it is now practically Impossible for the Grand Master to visit each member of our family during his year, consequently the district meetings to a large extent take t h e place of the old time visits. This, in a way, is to be regretted, especially with regard to the small and weaker lodges, which, as a rule are so situated as to be out of intimate touch with Masonic activities. As a consequence a visit from the Grand Master is of great benefit to them and having that thought in mind, it was my desire and intention to do considerable visiting, but my time was not my own, therefore my visitations were limited.
Under the head of "Home for Aged" he submitted the following: A great many sister Grand Lodges have established and are maintaining homes for their destitute aged. Alberta has been a young man's country, consequently we have not felt a pressing need for an institution of that kind, but t h e time is fast approaching when the need will be felt and I sti'ongly recommend that this Grand Lodge consider the advisability of establishing a foundation that will supply the home when the time arrives. It is understood that this is in no way to interfere with the Benevolent Fund.
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CORRESPONDENCE—ARIZONA.
February,
The Report on Correspondence was presented by Past Grand Master P . S. SELWOOD, and we are pleased to note a reference to our
1926 Proceedings. G. E . CRUICKSHANK, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Hillcrest. S. Y. TAYLOR, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Calgary.
Next Annual, Calgary, June 13, 1928.
ARIZONA—1927. Lodges, 36; members, 6,083; net gain, 182. Phoenix, February 8, 1927. NELSON C . BLEDSOE, M.-.W.-.Grand
Master. M.-.W.-. Brother JOHN HENRY BARRETT, our Grand Represen-
tative, was present. In submitting his annual address the Grand Master among other things had the following t o say: The principles upon which our forefathers builded, remain secure and inviolate, and we firmly face the future -with a fortitude and resolution to keep them intact. Masonry has ever stood for the highest standard of moral ethics and if we are to continue t h e noble work, and be the great moral force which it has been down through the centuries, it must never put its stamp of approval on any questionable thing. There has been a laxity and general letting down of the high standard we have maintained in tlie past, and we should view this condition with grave concern, and correct the evil so far as it exists in our rank and file. Our whole system of society rests upon the morality of the people, and when we find any one of our craft breaking the moral law, he should be expelled from the fraternity, as he has forfeited his right to be called a Malson.
Under the head of "Visitations" we observe that the Grand Master made good his promise when elected that he would visit every lodge in their jurisdiction. He started right as we find that he first began his •visitations with one to his own lodge. No one can question the truth of the following statement concerning representatives attending Grand Lodge and who are present only long enough to get their name on the report of the Committee on Credentials and then leave for some other place or to attend to personal business, or devote their time to amusement: The work of this Grand body is serious and needs careful deliberation. ' I very earnestly condemn the practice of members of this Grand Lodge hurrying away from its meetings to attend some Eastern Star gathering where there is some controversy going on. "Tend to your own knitting-' and we will do extremely well.
The Grand Master recommended an increase in the salary of the Grand Secretary from $50.00 to $100.00 per month. We notice, however, that the Committeaon Finance "passed the b u c k " to the trustees
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—ARKANSAS.
15
of the Grand Lodge, leaving the question entirely with them. This may be very good politics, but a mighty poor way of expressing the wishes of the whole Grand Lodge toward the compensation of a faithful servant. The Grand Master calls attention to several clandestine Mexican lodges operating in their state. They seem to have been chartered by what is known as the Rito National de Mexico Grand Lodge and the Grand Lodge Benito Juarez of Coahulia. We mention these in order that our own brethren may guard against imposition. Under the subject of "Burial Service" we quote the following: Brother JENKINS has prepared a report on the Burial Service. H e has made a very exhaustive study of the rituals used and has outlined a much shorter, and more elastic one. I t is based upon our old Ritual, and has used certain portions of the one used in Massachusetts. The question has arisen, whether it is necessary in all cases to open a Lodge before conducting a funeral. I believe it would be good sense to conduct a funeral at a mortuary chapel or church without opening the Lodge. If the funeral is to be at the Lodge Rooms, by all means, open Lodge first.
We have looked over the Service as submitted by the committee and can only say that to the notion of the writer it is one of the socalled progressive or modern ideas of tearing down the old and sub-: stituting the'new, losing sight of the old ancient expressions and language which is peculiar only to Ancient Craft Masonry. We notice the Grand Lodge was not disposed to adopt the one letter key Ritual as the proposition was defeated when submitted to Grand Lodge. There is no Report on Correspondence. GEORGE E . MCMILLAN, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, Jerome. GEORGE J. ROSKRUGE, R . - . W . ' . Grand Secretary, Tucson.
Next Annual, Tucson, February 14, 1928.
ARKANSAS —1926. Lodges, 559; members, 34,821; net loss, 729. Little Rock, November 16, 1926. CLAUD L . HILL, M . . W.-. Grand
Master. Kansas was represented at this Communication by Brother Louis BAUERLEIN.
We quote the following interesting words from the address of the Grand Master: Upon the canvass of my life, it has written with the blackest ink of sorrow the poems of trouble and dismay, and has pointed out to me a sundered home and a newly-made grave, b u t this dark picture has been thrown into relief, against the beautiful backgrounds quarried from the sacred treasure of truth.
16
CORHESPONDENCE—ARKANSAS.
February.
The first seven months of my official term as Grand Master. I was able to do but very little of what I had planned for a great year's work in the field of Arkansas Masonry, on account of my sick companion, who lingered so patiently for days, weeks and months, in the twilight of two worlds, suffering indescribable agony under the iron tooth of an incurable disease, and on the 19th day of May, 1926, she surrendered all that was mortal to that invisiljle adversary who disarms the victor and vanquished alike. But death held no terror for her. in it all she was the same sweet, patient. self-possessed, faithful BEULAH. and met death as a conquered enemy. Stiortly. after her demise, 1 was called to the evangelistic field in Arkansas, where I have spent most of the year in that work. However, 1 have made many visits among the Lodges throughout the State during the year, and have observed a healthy growth and a splendid progress among the craft in both work and spirit.
Under the subject of "Ideals" he had the following to say: To many people an ideal suggests something vague and indefinite, they think of a fleeting vision or a mystic mirage, they think of air castles and idle dreams, they think of broken pledges, unkept promises and resolutions that have burned up in the fires of jirocrastination, they think of noble intentions that have withered in the fierce heat of practical execution, they think of tears of repentance, that have dried on the cheek of the prodigal son. ere he had taken a dozen steps from the far country toward liis father's house. But an ideal is no such unsubstantial or vanishing quality, an ideal embodies the highest good consistent with the practical possibility of achievement; an ideal refuses to build upon the sinking sand of materialism, rejects matter as the ultimate ground of reality, declines to worship the golden calf, and puts no trust in the things that perish. An ideal pleads not for quantity, not bulk, but value; not matter, but mind; not the immediate, but the eternal; not the symbol, but the thing symbolized; not the machine, but the power that runs it.
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Forty-five years ago today, this Grand Lodge placed a golden pen with a diamond point in the hand of a fine-looking black-haired, brown-eyed, trustworthy young man, with the authority to write its record, year by year. He has been elected to the same office in this Grand Lodge without opposition, and today he enjoys the honor and distinction of holding the office of Grand Secretary longer than any other Grand Secretary of any grand jurisdiction in the world. When he was born in Little Rock. Arkansas, the angels named him FAY HEMPSTEAD and began to sing their fraternal anthems at the window of his soul. He caught the inspiration from their song, seized the pen of opportunity and began to write, and toda.v he bears the title of Poet Laureate of Free Masonry. Though the raven locks of vigorous manhood have been washed in the white of the passing snows, yet his natural strength has not abated and today he sits before us one of the greatest and most intellectual Masonic athletes in the world.
Concerning their "Children's Building at the Tuberculosis Sanatorium", among other things, he submitted the following: « It has been a source of pleasure and pride to visit the building which Arkansas Masonry gave to the tubercular children a t the State Tuberculosis Sanatorium. Kecently I spent an evening there with the committee of Belle Point Lodge, which had in charge and brought to successful completion the Masonic movement resulting in this splendid building. My heart swelled with pride and gratitude when I beheld the new home for the tubercular of Arkansas. We viewed and inspected it from cellar to garret with all of its beautiful modern improvements and means of sanitation, then we were invited into the dining
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—-ARKANSAS.
17
room, where we were entertained with a bounteous collation, followed by interesting addresses. "We were then given an opportunity to see the children inmates' of the institution, and rejoiced to see their apparent progress toward health and restoration. The building and furniture cost approximately 860,000.00, raised and donated by the Masons, and it is unquestionably one of the, if not the best, constructed and equipped buildings for tubercular children in the United States. U n d e r t h e head of " D i s c i p l i n e " t h e G r a n d M a s t e r r e p o r t s a case where one of their m e m b e r s was convicted in a Federal C o u r t for having intoxicating liquor in his possession a n d t h e lodge was n o t disposed t o t a k e action against t h e brother for u n m a s o n i c conduct, b u t t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ordered t h a t this be done a n d in t h e course of t i m e t h e trial was held a n d t h e b r o t h e r a c q u i t t e d . T h e lodge t o o k an a p p e a l a n d t h e C o m m i t t e e on Jurisprudence reported t h a t on account of t h e lack of a complete t r a n s c r i p t t h e y had n o t h i n g on which t o a c t . We therefore presume t h e incident is closed. W e are pleased t o q u o t e t h e following from t h e address Of t h e Grand Orator: It is a truism that you can make a Mason in name by conferring degrees upon him, but Masonic ideals, philosophy and truth must be sown in the heart. The illustrious ALBERT PIKE e.xpressed most admirably the thought I have in mind, he said, "imagine not that you can become indeed a Mason merely by learning what is commonly called the work, or merely by becoming familiar with our traditions. Masonry has a history, a literature and a philosophy. He who desires to understand the harmonious and beautiful proportions of Freemasonry must read, study, reflect, digest and discriminate." Just as our operative brother of the days of yore patiently taught his apprentices and craftsmen to strive upward to the light of knowledge, that in time they might flt themselves for the work of direction and design, so should we endeavor to incite in the liearts of each of our newly made brethren an earnest desire for light upon the subject of Masonry, that in time they may be fitted to take up and direct the great work which Masonry has always done and doubtless will always be called upon to do. Before we can begin to teach others, we, ourselves, must first be prepared by learning; to bestow the light of knowledge upon our fellow man and our brother of the mystic path, we must first acquire that light for ourselves; this process of fitting ourselves and of enlightening others is nothing more nor less than education—-education of all Icinds, if you please, though particularly would I stress the necessity of the education of Masons as to Masonry. T h e r e is no R e p o r t on Correspondence. W . M . K E N T , (Initials n o t ours) M.". W.'. G r a n d M a s t e r , S u l p h u r Rock. F A Y H E M P S T E A D , R . - . W . ' . G r a n d Secretary, L i t t l e Rock. N e x t A n n u a l , L i t t l e Rock, N o v e m b e r 15, 1927.
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CORRESPONDENCE—BRITISH
COLUMBIA.
February,
BRITISH COLUMBIA —1927. Lodges, 119; members, 14,512; net gain, 547. New Westminster, June 23, 1927.
D. W. SUTHERLAND, M.-. W.-.
Grand Master. We regret to note the absence of our Grand Representative at this Communication. From the preface to the Grand Master's address we take pleasure in quoting the following: Nor should we on this, the Diamond Jubilee of Confederation, be unmindful of the many advantages with which the Great Architect of the Universe has been pleased to bless u s ; nor of that heritage bequeathed to us by those who have well and worthily laid the foundation of our national institutions. As Freemasons we should ever strive to inculcate loyalty to our Empire, and a deeper appreciation of our Canadian domain. *
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*
4:
Another encouraging feature is an increasing desire for Masonic Itnowledge. Many of the Lodges during the past year have featured lectures on Masonic subjects. I n urging the need of Masonic knowledge in our i^odges it has often been suggested that educational lectures or essays do not Interest the Brethren. True, many members have no wish to be Masonically educated. They are content to be Freemasons in name only and are satisfied that the monotonous, mechanical repetition of unexplained ceremonies fulfills every requisite and conveys all that is t o be known, yet in every Lodge are to be found Brethren who are asking for something, more than this; who believe that the Craft was destined for wider and better ends: who are earnest seekers after light and knowledge and have entered the Order for the purpose outlined in the Fellow Craft degree. Our personal duty, our personal undertaking as leaders in the Craft, demand that a t least some means of supplying their wishes be placed at their disposal. I note that the present period of transition, succeeding the upheavals of the Great War, is viewed by many zealous Freemasons with a disquieting outlook. But while there is a tendency on the part of the public to cast ofl and dissociate themselves from many of those things which, in the past, we deemed essential, still it is a period of encouragment, a period of reconstruction in which guidance and direction are required from the Church, the Masonic and other allied Orders to a greater extent than ever before. I t is a period when the usefulness of Freemasonry will be tested as it has never been in the past. A new social order is in course of erection, the foreground is strewn with disorganized material and the debris of the old. If we are despondent this is all we may see, but faith in the purposes of the Divine Creator, faith in humanity, and faith in our Institution, will raise our eyes to the new and more glorious structure emerging out of the old order. The past has supplied us with an organization consisting of an army of approximately four million men, selected for their intelligence and moral worth. The possibilities of such a body working together and actuated by a common purpose cannot be over-estimated. If we are true to ourselves and to the Craft we must in the future assume the responsibility of supplying the directing force t h a t will make it a potential factor in remodelling the social fabric, and in elevating the moral and ethical standards of our Country.
He was asked for a ruling as to the elig^ibility for initiation of one who had a stiff knee, another who had lost his left hand, and one who was an Indian. In the first two instances he declared they were
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—BRITISH
COLUMBIA.
19
not eligible, while in the other he ruled t h a t a full-blooded, original American was eligible. One of their lodges asked the approval of a by-law for the purpose of making two classes of non-resident members, namely, those who were raised in the lodge and those who affiliated, giving the former class a preference in the matter of dues. The Grand Master refused to approve such a by-law. We take pleasure in quoting the subject of "Attendance" in its entirety: During the year, I made a survey of the attendance in our Lodges. This compilation is attached hereto as an appendix.. The data contained therein are both interesting and useful, and if followed up every four or five years with a similar survey, it will furnish a useful barometer to the general condition of the Craft. You will note that the average attendance decreases when the* membership exceeds the point where personal touch and comradeship is becoming lost. We are then faced with the paradox that a Lodge may weaken itself by becoming too strong. I arn of opinion that what might be termed ward Lodges should be encouraged. This would be of assistance in the matter of admission of members as well as in the dispensation of necessary relief. In any event it is not well for a Lodge in an outlying District of a large city to have its membership scattered over the entire area of the city. I notice from financial statements to hand that many Lodges required the whole of their initiation fees to meet their current expenditures. No candidate is allowed to join our Order for monetary considerations. The same principle should apply to the Lodge, which should not depend for its existence on the annual increase in its membership. F r o m t h e following, t a k e n from t h e G r a n d Secretary's r e p o r t , i t would seem their lodges a r e n o exception t o our own in t h e m a t t e r of correctly reporting n a m e s from y e a r t o y e a r : In connection with the Returns, I desire to draw attention to the fact that they seemed to contain more errors than in former years, and I would like to urge upon the Lodge Secretaries the desirability of getting the correct names in full, of the members of their Lodges. In a large number of cases, it was found that a Brother returned under "one name in 1925, was returned under a different name in 1920. This requires a considerable amount of unnecessary correspondence in order to secure the correctness of our records. The carelessness of Secretaries in this particular is inexcusable, and the writer assumes that if a brother elected to the office of Secretary does not possess sufficient intelligence to make up a coi-rect report he should, in justice to his lodge, decline to assume this responsible office. It too frequently happens that lodges assume that any one can fill the office of Secretary, while as a matter of fact, so far as the Grand Body is concerned, this officer is of much more importance than even the Master. In connection with the report of the Grand Historian we find pictures of buildings constructed for Masonic purposes, some of which have been replaced with more modern structures. We appreciate the efforts of the Historian as we are working along similar lines in our own jurisdiction.
20
CORRESPONDENCE—CALIFORNIA.
February.
During the deliberations R.-. W.-. Brother C. E. BLANEY presented
the Grand Lodge with a gavel made from stone taken from KING SOLOMON'S quarries which he had procured while he was in Palestine.
This gift was accepted b y the Grand Master on behalf of the Grand Lodge. Their Grand Secretary, Brother W. A. DEWOLF-SMITH, prepared
another very interesting Report on Correspondence and he assigns to our Grand Lodge more than three pages of his report, covering our 1926 Proceedings. Referring to comments of the writer as contained in our 1926 Proceedings concerning the qualification of candidates he had the following to say: We do not agree with t h e view that any man whose character will bear investigation and who can raise the required fee is entitled to admission Into the Fraternity. It is, of course, essential that a petitioner's character be above reproach, but regard should be had to his ability to absorb the teachings and principles of the Institution, and to the motives which prompt him to apply for admission. If proper consideration were given to these requirements, we would probably have fewer members, b u t a larger proportion of Masons. FRANK S. M C K E E , M.-. W.-. Grand Master, Vancouver. W. A. DEWOLF-SMITH, R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary and
Corres-
pondent, New Westminster. Next Annual, Vancouver, June 21, 1928.
CALIFORNIA —1927. Lodges, 563; members, 129,309; net gain, 6,897. San Francisco, October 11, 1927.
GEORGE L . JONES, M.-. W.:
Grand Master. The Grand Master submitted an interesting as well as instructive address, from the preface of which we quote the following: During the year just concluding, I have constantly experienced that great joy which conies from associating with those splendid men throughout the State, who are engaged in the work of this Fraternity; but, in the attempted performance of my duties, I have realized, with great regret, that limitations both of time and ability would not permit me to do many things which the position demands of one who has been selected to fill it. Though many miles were traveled, many hours spent and much thought given in the effort to comply with t h e obligation I took when I assumed the duties of Grand Master, yet I realize that much has been left undone that should have been done.
Under the head of "General Condition" he presents a true picture of conditions along the line of accepting members, which appeals to the writer, and we therefore take pleasure in quoting it: I t is a matter of unlimited satisfaction to be able to report that the general condition of the Craft in this jurisdiction continues good. Peace and harmony have marked the activities of the year, and from the report of the Grand Secretary, you will note the increase in membersMp and in new Lodges. The re-
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—CALIFORNIA.
21
markable growth of Masonry of late years means that the Fraternity is far from the point of stagnation, but what its ultimate effect will be, it is yet too early to determine. If we could be but convinced that we have been making Masons in heart as well as in name, then we could rightfully boast of our augmented rolls of membership and feel that the influx has been for the strengthening and upbuilding of our Institution. May such prove to be the case and may each novitiate demonstrate, by his every act,-that he has become a better man, appreciative in every way. of his duties and his obligation as a Mason. I would quote the words of that splendid man and Mason, Past Grand Master DAVID J. REESE, when he said: "If we can raise but one brother who is worthy and well qualified, a credit to the Fraternity and an honor to the Craft, we have accomplished more for humanity than rubber stamping a hundred and making them Masons in name only." The old admonition to seek quality, rather than quantity, should be carefully heeded in these days of our Masonic prosperity, fcr the admission of unworthy material will weaken the whole structure and tend to produce difficulties and dissensions which thought and care could have avoided. A consideration of the degree work done by the Lodges during the past year has caused me to feet that the "degree-mill" has in some localities been working overtime and that a grave injustice is, perhaps, resulting to both the Fraternity and the new member. It has been well said by our. Grand Secretary that " i t is apparent that some of our Lodges have-lost sight of the genius of Masonry and the reason for their existence, which is to unite and bring to their service a world-wide fraternity of free men, whose mission it is to make men friends, to refine and exalt their, lives, to uphold every noble and redeeming ideal of humanity, 'teaching the Fatherhood of GOD, the brotherhood of man, the moral law, the Golden Rule, and the hope of a life everlasting.' They are bound by every implication of honor to adopt their novitiates as part of the Lodge family, to assist them in a friendly way to enlarge their field of usefulness to their fellows, to help them in the cultivation of friendships among the brethren. But when a Lodge confers, say over two hundred degrees in one year, the inference is inescapable that the brethren have but one aim in view, and that is to enlarge the roster and put money in the treasury." Like most G r a n d M a s t e r s he presents t h e subject of " P h y s i c a l Qualifications" which proposition w a s s u b m i t t e d t o their G r a n d L o d g e one year ago and referred t o t h e C o m m i t t e e on Jurisprudence for a r e p o r t a t this C o m m u n i c a t i o n . T h e G r a n d M a s t e r calls a t t e n t i o n t o t h e action of t h e G r a n d Lodge, a n d we q u o t e t h e following as t h e findings of their C o m m i t t e e on J u r i s p r u d e n c e : The Committee on Jurisprudence reported that it was not desirable to attempt to define by law with any greater particularity than .is already contained in section 94 of the Constitution. The section is concise. The petitioner must have no defect that renders him "incapable of learning the a r t " and he must be "physically able to conform substantially to what the several degrees require of him."
He refers briefly to the subject of- the use of lodge funds, as indicated in the following: I t might be well at this time to again call the attention of the brethren to the limitation which has' been placed on the right of a Lodge to contribute to movements which may be most laudable, but which are not Masonic. I t Is a well-settled rule that the funds of a Lodge cannot be used to assist in any activity which is not recognized as a Masonic one. Thus our Lodges are not authorized to make donations to even so worthy an organization as the Red Cross, though that same limitation does not apply to the Grand Lodge. It will.
22
COBBBSPONDENCE—CALIFORNIA.
February,
of course, be understood that there is nothing to preclude the collection of funds from the members of the Lodge for the assistance of a movement with which the Lodge has properly allied itself, and in this way those brethren desiring to contribute may do so from their own pockets and not out of funds collected for other purposes. The subject of "Politics" receives attention at his hands, and from it we quote the following: The Old Charges of 1722 wisely laid down the proposition that we " a r e resolved against all politics, as what never yet conduced to the welfare of the Lodge, nor ever will," are good law today, and the Grand Lodge of California has repeatedly affirmed t h a t proposition and in strong terms decreed against any participation of Masons as Masons in the political affairs of the country or any subdivision thereof. You win please advise your brethren If so be they do meet for the purpose of forming a political club, that such formation will be looked upon as a plain violation of Masonic usage and custom, and if any brother should persist in any sucli effort, he will be subject to stern discipline. * * * * * * The injection of politics into the Fraternity must be condemned in strongest terms. The brother, who in his desire to advance the interests of some particular candidate for public office issues a letter signed by the writer as a Mason; the Masonic publication which In its pages indorses a candidate for election; or the brother who would induce his lirethren to join a political club composed solely of Masons, is doing that which tends to bring the Fraternity into the political arena and which has ever been condemned. Masonry seeks the preferment of no man in ofUce. I t does urge upon its membership the duty of exercising the privileges of citizenship intelligently, leaving it entirely to t h e individual t o deterrnine how or for whom he shall cast his ballot. Great care must be taken not to Involve the Fraternity in political activities, lest It be said that Masonry has fallen from its high plane to do that which tradition and good judgment have demanded it should avoid. To,elect some particular candidate or to defeat another one, calls for no Masonic action, and he who would have it otherwise counsels a change in our policy which can result only In grave injury t o the Fraternity. Under the head of "District Deputy Grand Masters", which subject was submitted to their Grand Lodge one year ago and was referred to the Committee on Jurisprudence for a report at this Communication, he heartily endorses the proposed adoption of a system of District Deputies; however, the Committee on Jurisprudence took an opposite view, and we quote the following from their report, which was adopted: The unfinished business of 1926 relating to the creation of the offices of District Deputy Grand Masters and Deputy Grand Lecturers, was disposed of by a report of the Committee on Policy and General Purposes that t h e proposal to create such offlces be not adopted. The writer is at a loss to understand how any Masonic Grand Jurisdiction can make a success at handling the affairs of the Craft without the aid of District Deputy Grand Masters. Speaking for our own jurisdiction, our seventy-six District Deputy Grand Masters are indispensible. They are the mouth-piece of the Grand Master and form the link of the chain between the Grand East and the constituent lodges. Our District Deputies conduct a district meeting in each
1927-28.
CoBBESPONDENCE—CALIFORNIA.
23
district every year at which one of the Lecturers takes charge of the School of Instruction and the meeting concludes with the presentation of a special address prepared for these gatherings each year. In addition to the above the District Deputies are in close touch with all their lodges to see that they use nothing but the standard form of blanks and record books adopted by Grand Lodge, and in other respects conform to the Constitution, Laws and Regulations of the Grand Lodge. Through our District Deputies, lodges are cautioned against a breach of the Landmarks or Ancient Charges, and are encouraged to attend Grand Lodge, and keep in close touch with the affairs of the Craft in general. We are therefore at a loss to understand why a jurisdiction of as much importance as that of California would not adopt such a magnificent system and particularly in view of the great distance from the north to the south in their state. Under the head of "Entertainment" the Grand Master had the following to say: I have constantly during the year urged upon the brethren the necessity of not permitting the presentation by Lodges of programs which would tend in the slightest degree to bring reproach upon the Institution, and I have without hesitation condemned the character of entertainment which is too frequently given in gatherings made up of Masons 1 cannot but feel that the high standards of Masonry are being lowered when groups, composed of Masons and meeting at weekly luncheons, will permit the form of entertainment which is heralded through the columns of the newspapers or by circulars, and then presented under circumstances wiiich nullify any contention that such numbers are but artistic efforts. There is grave danger that unless checked, the bad example set will be followed by Lodges, and I therefore recommend that an expression of disapproval of these questionable entertainments be given by this Grand Lodge, with the warning that unless discontinued, further action will be taken against those responsible therefor.
Under their law a lodge is compelled to prefer charges against one of their members who has been convicted in the courts of any crime involving moral turpitude. Referring to this topic the Grand Master concludes with.the following few words: Grand Lodge has spoken in no uncertain terms in regard to this matter, and there should be no hesitancy whatsoever in proceeding in accordance with Its dictates. WILLIAM H . FISCHER, M.-.W.-. Grand Master, Los Angeles. JOHN WHICHBR, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, San Francisco. JESSE M . WHITED, Correspondent, San Francisco.
Next Annual, San Francisco, October 9, 1928.
24
CORRESPONDENCE—CANADA.
Fei.ruary.
CANADA—1927. Lodges, '516; members, 110,549; net gain, 2,873. Guelph,"July 20, 1927. JOHN W . ROWLAND, M . - . W . - . Grand Master. R.'. W.'. Brother R. H. SPENCER, our Grand Representative, was present. The writer notes-under the head of "Distinguished Guests" the names of one Grand Master, several Past Grand Masters, and other brethren possessed of the title of Right Worshipful. Following this list of names we note that a "special introduction" was made of the brother at the head of Scottish Rite Masonry in Canada. We are at a loss to understand why a special occasion was made for an outside organization as against brethren possessing the rank of Most Worshipful and those who had been honored with the highest office within the gift of Ancient Craft Masonry. We are pleased to quote the following from the Grand Master's address: Life is largely a process of forgetting the things we once believed. " I know," said an old man, " t h a t I was very wise when I was young, for I knew so many things t h a t aren't true." We were taught as children to say that CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS discovered America in 1492—and in a large way, perhaps, he did. But the real discovery of America was a matter of centuries and the work of many men—most of them, apparently, of Scottish birth. A hundred years ago, one of these Scotchmen, .IOHN GALT by name, cut down a Maple tree, and around the spot on which the old Maple stood are clustered today the brick and stone and cement, the happy and comfortable homes, the hum of industry, and the movement of commerce that make up the City of Gueiph; and in an outer circle, the smiling and fertile fields that make this part of our Province one of the fairest portions of the earth's surface. I t may be that JOHN GALT is able today, to look down upon the scene that unfolds itself before our eyes; and if he is, his Scottish soul must thrill with pride— if souls in Paradise are allowed to be Scottish, and to enjoy the pleasures of human weakness. Citizens of Gueiph, it was indeed a gracious act that permits us to be here a t this time and generous and kindly has been your treatment of us. We thank you most sincerely. We understand and share your pride in your City, and we express for the century ahead, the hope that "peace may abide within your gates and prosperity within your palaces." Under " R u l i n g s " we take pleasure in quoting the first one, reading as follows: I ruled that a student who had [been in attendance at a university for more than a year might be considered the material of either the Lodge a t his university or of the Lodge where his home is situated. His third ruling will no doubt be interesting to our readers: I refused permission to a Chamber of Commerce to have access to our Masonic records for purposes of a mailing list, and to a Shrine Club to use the Lodge room for a concert.
1927-28.
CoBBESPONDENCE—CANADA.
25
We are pleased to quote the following on the subject of "Candidates", believing his remarks are timely and good: The employment of questionnaires may serve a useful purpose, but I should like to sound a note of warning. When you accept a candidate for admission to your Lodge, you accept him with the intention of making him one of yourselves, and no system of questions however skillfully devised can take the place of a report that is based upon personal knowledge and personal investigation. The time when you rely upon a system is the time when it is most likely to prove a broken reed. Referring to the "Charges to the Candidate in the First D e g r e e " we cannot refrain from quoting his words, knowing full well t h e y will be enjoyed by those who are fortunate enough to read this portion of our report: • There is no finer piece of masonic literature than the Charge to the Candidate in the First Degree. ' It begins by commending to him the volume of the sacred law, it concludes by urging him to devote his leisure hours to the liberal arts and sciences. The first, that he may be taught his duty to GOD, to his neighbour and to himself; the second, that his understanding may be freshened and his strength increased for the performance of that duty. There comes to mind the story of JOHN KNOX. AS he was approaching the end of his life, he gathered round him the students of St. Andrew's and exhorted them "to know GOD and stand by the good cause, and to use their time well." " I would like," said Mr. FROTJDE in his address to the students of the same university, " to read a few words to you out of the same lesson book; for to make us know our duty and do it, to make us upright in act and true in thought and word, is the aim of all instruction which deserves the name. Duty changes, truth expands, one age cannot teach another either the details of its obligations or the matter of its knowledge, but the principle of obligation is everlasting." The consciousness of duty is the elementary force in virtue of which man's moral nature grows. This idea of dtity is the heart and soul of Masonic instruction; the discharge of duty not merely in obedience to the command of a Higher Power, but as the only condition on which the meaning of life can be realized and happiness attained. A system of education is valued scarcely less for the method than for the matter of its instruction. The Greek of classical times thought of the poet as a teacher. It was not because he found in his poetry a treasure house of moral maxims or a system of rules of conduct. He thought of it rather as the source from which he derived every thought that raised his mind above the daily routine, every sentiment that touched his heart with living power. . In this sense Masonry is a great teacher Indeed. It is true that its moral teaching may be elementary and we cannot always be discussing first principles. But the elementary things are the fundamental things of life, and we cannot afford to forget them. In the complexities and perplexities of modern conditions even men of mature age and sound judgment sometimes lose their way. It is only as they come back to first principles that they recover their bearings and regain their sense of direction. In an unusual way Masonry enables us to see ourselves in relation to others, our conduct in relation to eternal principles. It drives away the mists of pride and prejudice and clears the outlook upon the problems of life. It enables us to turn om' eyes from the feeble and flickering lights of human systems to the great light that never grows dim but shines with a clear and steady ray to guide us through all the vicissitudes of human experience. I would not have you believe, and no true friend of Alasonry will pretend, that alone it can suffice for our moral and spiritual needs. To substitute the Lodge-room for the church, to claim for Masonry or any system of morality tha regenerating power of a true religion is to misunderstand the functions of
26
COBRESPONDENCE—CANADA.
February,
both. Masonry, however, has a place. With its fundamental morality and universal symbolism, its sanity and moderation and steadying power. It seems to furnish a common ground upon which thinking men may meet and from which they may move forward to that closer sympathy and truer understanding which is the need of the modern world. For t h e discoveries of science have rewritten the conditions of existence. The barriers that once kept us apart have broken down, and those who were strangers before are neighbours now. But we still dislike and suspect the things we do not understand, and at every turn of the wheel of progress we are brought nearer to the point where safety will be assured only as men and nations arc able to know each other better, and to like and trust each other more. From the report of the Committee on Condition of Masonry we cull the following: Good results appear t o be flowing from the action of Grand Lodge in according to every lodge that has passed the century mark the privilege of wearing gold jewels and trimmings upon its regalia. Respect for our venerable pastmasters has also been awakened -by decorating each of them who has seen fifty years of service in the East with a handsome silver medal. This recognition by Grand Lodge has been greatly appreciated not only by the recipients but also by the lodges to which they belong. I t is not a t all unusual to present the medal upon some special occasion to enable as many brethren as possible to tender their congratulations to the brother so signally honored. I t would be difficult to devise a more useful object lesson for the rising generation of the fraternity than the touching scenes witnessed at these meetings. No higher tribute can be paid t o the craft than the affectionate regard in which it is held by an honored brother in the evening of his life to whom his years have been, "As a lusty winter frosty but kindly." * * * * * * Opening the lodge promptly at the appointed hour, adhering strictly to the established rules of order and the prompt dispatch of business are important factors that go a long way towards relieving the monotony of mere routine. Some lodges have quite successfully adopted the plan of summoning the brethren to meet at the hour of the regular evening meal and a social hour is spent around the table before the opening of the lodge. This is practicable only in lodge rooms equipped with the proper appliances and help for serving a regular meal. I t possesses the redeeming feature of enabling the lodge to close a t a much earlier hour than would be possible if refreshments are served after the closing of the lodge. Past- Grand Master WILLIAM NISBBT PONTON prepared the usual Report on Fraternal Correspondence and we are under obligations for a very liberal amount of his valuable space in a review of our 1927 Proceedings. We note in his comments that he does not agree with the writer in his views and opinions concerning the so-called Masonic Service Association. We do' not mean to be cruel but will only call Brother PONTON'S attention to the trend of this organization and the fact that many of the Grand Lodges which sponsored the same have now withdrawn—even Iowa—which jurisdiction alone created this so-called service association. Brother PONTON also feels that our views on the question of physical qualifications are somewhat narrow, to which we must take exception, as our Grand Lodge always has adhered strictly to the Fundamentals of Freemasonry based on the Ancient Charges and
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—COLORADO.
27
L a n d m a r k s of t h e F r a t e r n i t y . W e are therefore a t a loss t o u n d e r s t a n d his views in classing u s a s " n a r r o w " . W e appreciate B r o t h e r P O N T O N ' S k i n d words concerning t h e writer a n d his r e p o r t a n d reviews. JOHN S . M A R T I N , M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Port Dover. W I L L I A M M . L O G A N , R . - . W . \ G r a n d Secretary, H a m i l t o n . W I L L I AN N . . P O N T O N ,
Correspondent.
N e x t Annual, Windsor, J u l y 18, 1928.
COLORADO —1926. Lodges, 163; members, 32,126; net gain, 967. Denver, September 21, 1926. FRANK G . MIRICK, M.-.W.'.Grand Master. Brother WILLIAM H . SANFORD, Grand Representative of Kanaas, was present. We quote the following few words from the preface to the address of the Grand Master: Standing, as we do, in tlie shadows of the fast receding years, we, as the representatives of the one hundred and forty-seven Masonic Lodges In this Commonwealth, with our substantial and healthy growth in numerical strength and material prosperity, have no small measure of responsibility resting upon us. But, by the grace of Almighty GOD and His blessings, the perfect accord wlilch pervades the Masonic heart and thought of this Grand Jurisdiction, and causes the Masonic life-blood to boat and flow with even and rythmic pulsations, so modifies that responsibility as to make it at once a pleasure and a delight. 4=
^
*
4(
4:
H:
Most Worshipful Brotlier ERNEST L E N E V E FOSTER, Past Grand Master of Masons in Colorado, died at-Denver, September 21, 1925. Brother POSTER was a member of Temple Lodge No. 84, A. F. & A. M. of Denver. He was a man of reticence and silence in public places: modest, simple, and quiet in his tastes, shunning all ostentation. Only those to whom he opened his heart and friendship could estimate the rich treasure of his warm and genial nature, and of his well-stored mind. He possessed a comprehensive and thorough knowledge of philosophical subjects: he was learned in the higher study of the symbolism and significance of Masonic philosophy. He was a great lover of all things beautiful in nature or in art. His nature was so abundantly philanthropic that his charities were only compassed by his means, and yet so unobtrusively did he perform good deeds, that even those who knew him best, knew not the extent of his giving. His name has been written, " N o t u p o n granite, b u t upon the hearts of men." Under the head of "Decisions" we note one that a brother is not entitled to his dimit who has not passed the required examination in the Lecture of the Third Degree. We are inclined to believe that both the Grand Lodge and the Grand Master erred as under our Landmarks and Ancient Regulations no Grand Lodge or other authority can take away the inherent rights of one after he has been raised to the sublime
28
CORRESPONDENCE—CoLOBADO.
February.
degree of a Master Mason, unless for good cause he is tried in a proper manner and punished. Speaking of Masonic Clubs, the Grand Master had the following to say: I feel that I would be false to ray duty as Grand Master, did I not call the attention of the Craft, to t h e alarming growth of Masonic Clubs in our midst. It seems to be all the rage, especially in the large populated centers, to organize clubs, some of them with grotesque names, limiting their membership to Masons only. These clubs are being organized, no doubt, witli good intent, but in most cases are making violent departures from Masonic standards and usages for their amusement and pleasure, such as giving public dances and selling tickets therefor, holding picnics on Sunday, requesting permission to exemplify degrees in their club rooms for practice. The action of these clubs on the public mind is associated with Free Masonry, and blurs the,vision of our ideals.
The Grand Master was inclined to be tender-hearted concerning the admission of those who do not possess the requisite physical qualifications. Referring to two instances in which he refers to the splendid character of these seeking Masonic honor he recommends a modification of their laws so that petitioners of this kind may be accepted. The Committee on Jurisprudence, however, took an opposite view and disapproved of his recommendation. We find in these Proceedings pictures of several Past Grand Masters, including two old-time friends of the writer of this report— M.-. W.'. Brothers CROMWELL TUCKER and ERNEST L E N E V B FOSTER.
The undersigned first became acquainted with Brother TUCKER almost forty-four years ago, at which time Brother TUCKER was chairman of an examining committee when the writer made his first visit to a Colorado lodge. Afi acquaintance was there established which lasted throughout his life time. A warm personal friendship was established with Brother FOSTER more than thirty-five years ago. These two brethren were certainly ardent Masons and worthy of the several honors bestowed upon them by the Craft in Colorado. Brother STANLEY C. WARNER submits another well prepared review of the Proceedings of other Grand Jurisdictions, including our own for 1925. FRANK J. REINHARD, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Golden. WILLIAM W . COOPER, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, Denver. STANLEY C . WARNER, Correspondent, Denver.
Next Annual, Denver, September 20, 1927.
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—CONNECTICUT.
29
CONNECTICUT—1927. Lodges, 120; members, 45,109; net gain, 928. Hartford, February 2, 1927.
ARTHUR N . NASH, M.-.W.-. Grand
Master. Brother HOWARD A. MIDDLETON was present as the Grand Repre-
sentative of Kansas. In submitting his annual address the Grand Master states that it has been a very busy year and as far as it was possible he accepted all invitations from lodges, unless the occasion was purely social. We are somewhat surprised that Connecticut lodges possess any social features at all as in our country and many others the purely social proposition is left to the almost innumerable outside organizations predicating their membership on Ancient Craft Masonry. The Grand Master held eight Emergent Communications, three for laying corner-stones and five for dedicating Temples_. Death entered their official family and took from our Connecticut brethren their Grand Junior Warden, Brother HARRY CLINTON SCOFIELD. We also find reference to their distinguished Brother, W.-. H. WALES LINES, who passed away at his home in Meriden on
January 11, 1927. The writer not only had the personal acquaintance of Brother LINES, but more or less correspondence passed between us for many years prior to his death. We take pleasure in quoting the following from the Grand Master's conclusion: The world without our doors judges us, not by what we claim but by what we do and, if we allow those of our members who brealc the Law to go unpunished, we are casting a blot on the fair name of Masonry in Connecticut. I t is my earnest wish that the officers of every Lodge in Connecticut prefer charges, speedily try, and, if found guilty, adequately punish members who have been convicted by the Courts of criminal acts.
The Grand Master rendered a decision to the effect that Lodges could not assess their members for building purposes-. This decision was based on their law under the head of "Powers of Lodges" which limits them to raising funds for the purpose of charity and its own maintenance. He was asked whether it was proper t o use a lodge room for the purpose of playing cards and giving dancing entertainments. He replied in the affirmative. His answer, however, was in opposition to the expressed policy of their Grand Lodge in 1857 when it was decided that the Grand Lodge was opposed to the practice of connecting dancing with Freemasonry or using Masonic symbols in connection with balls. It seems, however, that the Committee on Jurisprudence approved the decisions of the Grand Master, stating that they were in accord with the rules and principles of Masonic law. I t is evident, therefore, that the action of the Grand Lodge in 1857 was not in accord with the rules and principles of Masonic law.
30
CORRESPONDENCE—CONNECTICUT.
February,
The Grand Master admits that he was officially received as Grand Master by an outside organization predicating its membership on Masonry. He likewise states that several Grand Lodge officers were present and "acted on my suite". Their faithful Grand Secretary, R.-.W.\ Brother GEORGE A. KiES, submits his fourteenth annual report, and of course it covers all matters of importance which developed under his jurisdiction during the year. His statistics and financial tables as usual are very complete. We find a splendid half-tone^ of their late Worshipful Brother HENRY WALES LINES.
The Report on Correspondence was again prepared by their Grand Secretary, Brother GEORGE A. K I E S . He includes with his report a review of our 1926 Proceedings and favors us with three pages. He refers to t h e Council of Administration, which is composed of the four principal officers of our Grand Lodge, and wonders how far their duties extend. As a matter of information the writer will say that our Council of Administration exercises the right of ownership of all Grand Lodge property; can authorize the payment of any amount necessary where conditions arising during the year require prompt attention; have full charge of the Rituals and assignment of districts; in other words, they have the same rights as many Grand Lodges possess where they call a Special Communication to act on some business matters, but of course they have no jurisdiction over ceremonies. His review of our Grand Jurisdiction covers practically all of the more important matters which came before the Grand Lodge. However, we feel justified in quoting the following paragraph, knowing full well that it will be appreciated by our readers: We are glad to find a lifelike reproduction of an oil painting of Brotlier ALBERT K . WILSON, who despite his years is one of the live-wire Grand Secretaries. This was presented to Grand Lodge by seven Topeka Masonic bodies.
We infer from the above that Brother K I E S is laboring under the impression that the writer is well advanced in years, in fact he assumes that he is well along in t h e seventies as he so states in his review in one of the other Masonic Grand Bodies. The writer has always considered Brother K I E S one of his warm personal friends, but the time has come when we feel that this friendship must cease unless he retracts his statement and makes due apology, because the Grand Secretary of Kansas who writes the Report on Correspondence, has not yet reached that age where even the fading light of the seventies has put'in an appearance. I t is true he is old in Masonry as he began serving the Craft when he was twenty-one years of age. THEODORE FOSTER, M . . W . ' . Grand Master, Chester. GEORGE A. K I E S , R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary and Correspondent,
Hartford. Next Annual, Hartford, February 1, 1928.
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—DELAWARE.
31
DELAWARE —1926. Lodges, 22; members, 5,955; net gain, 43. Wilmington, October 6, 1926.
JAMES P. PIERCE, M . - . W . ' . Grand
Master. Brother A. VICTOR HUGHES responded as the Grand Represen-
tative of Kansas. The Grand Master had but a few words to offer in the preface to his address, and we therefore can quote but little; however, we quote the following: I t has been a year in which I have realized more and more that the only real joy in life is found in the service of our fellow men. Masonry offers a field of service which is a challenge to the best t h a t in us lies. I n t h e performance of our duties it should be our high aim to so weld the chain of brotherly love that naught can break it, ever bearing in remembrance that each link is forged with that greatest of all attributes—Charity.
The Grand Master has to his credit twenty-three official visits. He recommended that a bible be presented to each brother when raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason. Are we to infer from this recommendation that bibles are scarce in Delaware? From his conclusion we are pleased to quote the following: Our great Fraternity is like every other great enterprise which has made its place in the world. I t is built on three steps—a, past, a present, and a future. The past is history—^The present, the realm of trial and achievement —The future, the unexplored territory of dreams and ideals. Our past history has been written and can be made neither better or worse; but the present Is with us. I t is our domain of achievement and it rests solely with you, with me, and with each individual Mason to make it what i t should be. The obligation of a Mason Is our willingness to give of our time and our thought toward making this the greatest epoch in our wonderful history. 1 am convinced that today we are on the threshold of the greatest opportunity for service that has ever been our fortune t o meet.
Fraternal recognition was extended t o the Grand Lodges of Queensland, Costa Rica'and the York Grand Lodge of Mexico. M.-.W.\ Brother THOMAS J. DAY, as Chairman, submitted the
usual Report on Correspondence. Kansas for 1926 receives consideration at his hands. HARRY GALBRAITH, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Wilmington. JOHN F . ROBINSON, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Wilmington. THOMAS J. DAY, P . - . G . - . M . - . , Correspondent, Wilmington.
Next Annual, Wilmington, October 5, 1927.
32
COBBESPONDENCE—DISTRICT
OF COLUMBIA.
February,
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA - 1926. Lodges, 34; members, 22,993; net gain, 293. Washington, May 12, 1926. SYDNEY R . JACOBS, M.-.W.-. Grand Master. At this Communication we note recognition was extended to the Grand Lodge of Vienna, although the report shows that the bible is only present on the altar when there is Work and that the initiate is obligated " b y the honest man's word", whatever that may be. The writer will have something to say on this subject in his special report to Grand Lodge. The Annual Communication was held December 15, 1926, with Brother SYDNEY R . JACOBS presiding as Grand Master. The Grand Master, among other things, had the following to say in presenting his report: One of the many splendid things about our brotherhood and the one that heartens its devotees more, perhaps, than any other, is the time and attention that are so largely and cheerfully given to the accomplishment of its altruistic purposes. Its enthusiastic brethren seem to take no accouno of the time that they give to it, and unselfishly toil for the advancement of its high objects. Under these conditions there need be but little wonder'that Freemasonry has made the rapid'strides that i t has. On an enduring basis there is implanted in the human heart a desire to be of ser\'ice to one's fellows, and under natural conditions this desire will, quickly and effectively find an adequate outlet. It is only when the dwarfing influence of undesirable environment and the repressing power of ignorance and distorted vision gain the upper hand that the spirit which manifests itself in a desire for service is destroyed. Fortunate indeed is our lot as brethren of a Fraternity wherein, amid pleasing surroundings and uplifting environment, we find adequate expression for our natural tendency toward good deeds and ample opportunity for service to our fellow-men. The Grand Master is strongly in favor of the transfer of membership proposition and recommends the practice of this system to the Grand Lodge. Having had ten years' experience in our own Grand Jurisdiction we have thus far been unable to discover any advantages from this system of transferring membership from one lodge to another except the protection it gives to a brother's membership in the socalled co-ordinate bodies. Among other things he had the following to say in his preoration: While we should ever be on the alert to take advantage of opportunities and circumstances t h a t may enlarge our field of usefulness, there can be no shutting our eyes to the fact that Freemasonry has for centuries afforded adequate expression of its spirit of brotherhood through the many opportunities that it offers for service t o mankind. To my mind, it is sufficient answer to demands for modification of its purposes and methods to say that if our Fraternity will continue to cultivate in the hearts of its members a strong desire to make t h e world better because they have lived and if it will continue its great charitable and beneficent purposes. It will always be a great power for good and earn for Itself a place in the plan of the Supreme Architect of the Universe. Not the least of our duties as devoted members of the Craft is that of endeavoring to prepare those who shall follow us for the work that will some day
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—ENGLAND.
33
be theirs of upholding its standards and maintaining its honor and prestige. I can conceive of no more fortunate condition for us than one in which the .splendid body of our membership is adequately prepared and efficiently educated to discharge those higher duties that our great altruistic purposes impose upon our membership. I can wish for Masonry no greater good than that, as the need arises, it will And brethren educated and developed to carry forward to triumphant success its unselfish aims and purposes. Under and recognizing the limitations which have been placed upon human ability, let us go forward striving earnestly for the attainment of that condition and the realization of that hope. M.-. W.-. G E O R G E W . B A I R D presents his t w e n t y - s i x t h annual R e port on Correspondence, a n d we are u n d e r obligations for a fraternal reference t o our 1926 j o u r n a l . B r o t h e r BAIRD writes an excellent report, b u t we believe a slight i m p r o v e m e n t could be m a d e b y t h e use of more p a r a g r a p h s , or in other words, p a r a g r a p h i n g his v a r i o u s subjects. GRATZ E . D U N K U M , M . - . W . - . G r a n d Master, Masonic T e m p l e , Washington. J. C L A U D E K E I P E R , R . ' . W . ' . G r a n d Secretary, W a s h i n g t o n . G E O R G E W . B A I R D , P . • . G.•. M .-., C o r r e s p o n d e n t , W a s h i n g t o n .
UNITED GRAND LODGE OF ENGLAND— 1926. Lodges, 4,195; members, 330,000; net gain, . At the Quarterly Communication held December 1, 1926, the Board of General Purposes, among other things, had the following to say: The continued fraternal relations maintained with the Grand Lodges in other countries with which the United Grand Lodge of England has been in constant correspondence, have had within the past few weeks another highly gratifying proof."* A number of Brethren of British nationality residing in Santiago requested from the Grand Lodge of Chile the necessary authorisation to found a Lodge to be named the Prince of Wales Lodge, with the assent of His Royal Highness, previously given to the Brethren concerned, which would act according to the working and ceremonial recognised in the Lodges throughout the English Jurisdiction. The Grand Master of Chile, M.'. W.'. Bro. HECTOR BoccAEDO, has communicated to the M.-. W.-. The Grand Master his decision to authorise the foundation of the Lodge as No. 19 within his Jurisdiction, in order to allow English-speaking Brethren in Santiago to practise Freemasonry in their own language, and to perform the ceremonial in the manner accustomed to be done under the United Grand Lodge of England. The M .. W.-. The Grand Master, through the M.'. W.'. the Pro Grand Master, is responding to this fraternal action by informing the Grand Master of Chile that the steps now taken are regarded as an indication of the warm fraternal feeling entertained by the Grand Lodge of Chile toward our own Grand Lodge, and assuring him that the relations between the two Bodies are established on the most cordial foundation. The Board would venture to join in according to the Grand Master and the Grand Lodge of Chile their belief in the long continuance, of this spirit of Masonic co-operation, and their good mshes for success and prosperity in all their undertakings.
34
CORRESPONDENCE—ENGLAND.
February,
Referring to their Library and Museum they submitted the following information: A list of the inccrcsting additions made to the Grand Lodge Library and Museum since the Board's last Report will be given in the record of the December Quarterly Communication. The outstanding gift received during that period has been a large collection, presented by Mrs. WONNACOTT, widow of the late Librarian of Grand Lodge, of the various MSS. compiled by W.'. Bro. W. WONNACOTT, P. A. G. Supt. Works, which was the labour of many years.[t is not possible, as yet, to give a full list of the contents of this collection, which is all being carefully sorted and classified, but it may be stated that it contains an analysis of the Ancient Charges; an index giving the names of old London Courts, Alleys and Streets, witli the names of the Inns situated therein, where the various London Lodges met; and indices of Country Lodges, Overseas Lodges, and Lodges under the Constitutions of Ireland and Scotland, with general notes. One monumental work of the collection is a Biographical Index of Masons made in different Modern and Antient Lodges, to the date of the Union of Grand Lodges in 1813. And considerable value attaches to the very extensive notes in supplement to and completion of the "Masonic Records, 1717—1894" by the late W.'. Bro. JOHN LANE, F. C. A., P, A. G. D. C , published in 1895 by Grand Lodge, in accordance with a resolution adopted at the Quarterly Communication of 6th June, 1894. When the work of collation and classification is completed, the Board will give Grand Lodge further details concerning this important and very interesting addition to our knowledge of Masonic history, for the handing over of which sincere thanks are accorded to M r s . WONNACOTT.
In referring to the gambling h a b i t which seems to creep i n t o some of t h e lodges, n o t only abroad b u t in our own country, t h e B o a r d h a d t h e following t o say: I think we shall have the whole Craft with us in condemning a system of lotteries or "sweeps." an endeavour to introduce wliich is being made in certain directions within Freemasonry. (Hoar, hear!) On that point we have no doul)t; and, until Grand Lodge decides to the contrary, the Board will take every means of checking what might prove in our opinion to bo a most noxious growth. For the remainder, I will reserve what has to be said until the resolutions arising out of the Report are submitted. A t t h e Q u a r t e r l y C o m m u n i c a t i o n of- M a r c h 2, 1927, a m a r k e d t r i b u t e was p a i d to the m e m o r y of their l a t e R.'. W.'. B r o t h e r R t . H o n . Sir F R E D E R I C K H A L S E Y , Bt., P a s t D e p u t y G r a n d M a s t e r , from which we are pleased t o quote t h e following: Less than three weeks ago our late Brother Sir FREDERICK HALSEY was summoned from this sul)lunary abode to ascend, as we all believe, to the Grand Lodge above. Although his years had exceeded the ordinary span of liuman life, and we knew that his passing could not be long delayed, the inevitable end came as a blow to us all, and has filled us with genuine sorrow, for it seemed as if it was only yesterday that Sir FREDERICK had been among us showing the same cheerful activity and the same wisdom and i^enevolenco for which we had known him for so many years. Tip to tlie last he maintained that noble and unselfish devotion to duty which had been his rule of life, and had made him not only revered but also beloved by all with whom he camo in contact. We may say of him that which can be said only of very few men, namely, that he had many friends and no enemies; and the reason for that was not far to seek. Sir FREDERICK HALSEY never had a tliought of personal gain or advancement. His one idea was to render himself as extensively serviceable to his fellow creatures as his power and opportunities would permit, and such was
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—ENGLAND.
35
the manner and motive of all his activities, that the world knew that he was one whose hand was guided by justice and whose heart was expanded by benevolence. jSfo unkind word ever escaped bis lips, no harsh censure ever crossed his mind, although he was the last man to condone anything that was wrong. He was before all things just, but his well-balanced sense of justice was tempered by a rare human sympathy and a great love of his fellow creatures. His life exemplified the truth of the maxim that "Example is better than precept," for modestly, quietly, and unobtrusively he devoted himself to all the work and duties that fell to his lot in such a way that nobody could doubt that whatever he did was done because he believed it to be right, and whatever he said was said because he believed it to be true. T h e following no d o u b t will be interesting t o our readers: That Grand Lodge, having in March, 1916, decided by resolution to require Brethren of Enemy Country Birth to abstain from attendance at meetings of Grand Lodge, or of a Private Lodge, or any other Masonic meeting until after the Treaty of Peace has been signed and until Grand Lodge shall otherwise determine,* now resolves that any Private Lodge may. by unanimous vote of its Brethren, present and voting, at a regular meeting, after notice on the summons to every Subscribing Member, allow a Brother, or Brethren, of Enemy Country Birth, to resume liis, or their, full membership. *That in order to prevent the peace and harmony of the Craft being disturbed, it is necessary that all Brethren of Gorman, Austrian, Hungarian or Turkish birth, should not, during the continuance of the War, and until Grand Lodge, after the treaty of peace has been signed, shall otherwise determine, attend any meeting of the Grand Lodge, or of a Private Lodge, or any other Masonic Meeting, and that such Brethren be, and they are hereby required by Grand Lodge to abstain from such attendance. Grand Lodce, March, 1916. A Quarterly C o m m u n i c a t i o n was held on t h e 1st d a y of J u n e , 1927, a n d from t h e r e p o r t of t h e Masonic P e a c e Memorial, of which our G r a n d Representative, W.-. B r o t h e r Sir KYNASTOM STUDD, O . B . E . (P. G. D.) is D e p u t y C h a i r m a n , we a r e pleased t o q u o t e t h e following: The original Graud Lodge of England was formed in 1717 by four Lodges, of which three remain to the present time, viz., the Lodge of Antiquity, Xo. 2, the Royal Somerset House and Inverness Lodge, No. 4, and the Fortitude and Old Cumberland Lodge, No. 12. The Committee has gratefully accepted the offer of these three old Lodges to present the Foundation Stone for the new Central Home, thereby forming a unique link between the original Grand Lodge and the great undertaking of the present. A ballot for seats for the Ceremony in the Royal Albert Hall will bo necessary, as already more applications for admission have been received than can be accommodated. Qualified Brethren may still apply for Tickets of Admission up to but not later than June 8th. The whole of the applications received will be subject to a ballot for seats. F u r t h e r reference t o t h e ceremony will be covered in a later r e p o r t . T h e M.".W.\ G r a n d M a s t e r s u b m i t t e d some interesting r e m a r k s a n d from t h e m we are pleased t o t a k e t h e following: We are always pleased to meet one another, and it is a great pleasure to me to find myself once again in the Chair of the Grand Master. (Applause.) Before leaving, T would like to tell you how very much I am looking forward to the 14th of July, when I shall lay the Foundation Stone of our great new Temple, which is to represent our War Memorial to our fallen Brethren. I hope we shall have a very large attendance, and that we may be favoured with the finest of weather, f Applause.)
36
CORRESPONDENCE—ENGLAND.
February,
Concerning their R / . W."". B r o t h e r Sir A L F R E D R O B B I N S , we q u o t e t h e following: The Board has heard with pleasure of the successful progress of the Mission of its President. R.-.W.-. Bro. Sir ALFRED BOBBINS. P. G. W., which he is undertalcing to the District Grand Lodge of South America (S. D.), and to various English-spealcing and English-worliing Lodges in the Argentine Republic, Uruguay, and Brazil, as well as to the Grand Orients of the three Countries mentioned. It is anticipated that this mission will be tlie subject of a more detailed report at a future date. W e are pleased t o n o t e t h a t t h e G r a n d S e c r e t a r y ' s salary was increased t o t w o t h o u s a n d p o u n d s . T h e c e r e m o n y of laying t h e f o u n d a t i o n s t o n e of their wonderful M a s o n i c P e a c e Memorial was performed on T h u r s d a y , t h e 14th d a y of J u l y , 1927. T h e caption in t h e p r i n t e d record reads as follows: A SPECIAL M E E T I N G OF
ANTIENT, F R E E AND A C C E P T E D MASONS OF ENGLAND. Holden at the Royal Albert Hall, Kensington, London, On Thursday, the 14th day of July, 1927, Bii Command of the Most Worshipful The Grand Master, Field-Marshal His Royal Highness T H E D U K E OF COMNAUGHT AND STBATHEARN, K . G., &C., &C., &C., &C..
For the Laying of the Foundation Stone of the Masonic Peace Memorial in Great Queen Street. F r o m t h e a b o v e it will be observed t h a t t h e i r sitting G r a n d Master, M.'. W.'. H . R. H . The D u k e of C o n n a u g h t a n d S t r a t h e a r n , accompanied b y all o t h e r Grand Officers, were p r e s e n t t o t a k e p a r t a n d witness t h e full c e r e m o n y . At t h e conclusion of t h e ceremony t h e G r a n d M a s t e r was addressed b y t h e D e p u t y G r a n d M a s t e r of t h e G r a n d Lodge of I r e l a n d , t h e G r a n d M a s t e r of Scotland, a n d t h e G r a n d M a s t e r of t h e G r a n d Lodge of N e w Y o r k . T h e i r r e m a r k s were v e r y brief a n d referred only t o t h e i m p o r t a n c e of t h e occasion a n d their pleasure a t being able to t a k e p a r t in t h e s a m e . Following t h e s e r e m a r k s t h e G r a n d M a s t e r of t h e U n i t e d G r a n d Lodge of E n g l a n d h a d the following t h e s a y : Brethren, on this great occasion, when we have just laid the Foundation Stone of our New Peace Memorial building, I rejoice that we have advanced so far in our endeavour to commemorate the memory of all our brethren who fell in the Great War. We hope that this great building which is now to be erected will show for all time our gratitude to the Great Architect of the Universe for the blessings that we have received, our affectionate admiration for those who laid down their lives for their King and Country, and our belief that it will ever remain an inspiration to future generations. It is very gratifying to me, as I am sure it must be to you all, t h a t we have with us deputations from the Grand Lodges of Ireland and Scotland and other brethren from overseas. We extend to them a most hearty welcome and we hope that this occasion may further strengthen that bond which so closely binds together our whole Masonic fraternity. On your behalf 1 would like to thank them for coming among us to-
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—ENGLAND.
37
day. and for the good wishes so kindly expressed by the Deputy Grand Master of Ireland, the Grand Master Mason of Scotland, and the Grand Master of New York for the success of our undertaking. To-day marks a very great step forward in the work we set ourselves in 1919. Progress in such an undertaking is necessarily slow, but we are gradually and very surely approaching our goal. I had hoped to have been able to announce to-day that the whole sum I originally proposed had been subscribed; but, in view of the great support which I. knew would be given by the Craft to the Chairmanship of Right Worshipful Brother the PRINCE OF WALES, Provincial Grand Master for Surrey, at the Festival of the Girls' Institution this year; I felt that no special appeal should be issued for tills occasion I am glad to know, however, that nine-tenths of the million pounds has already been promised and that of this amount £725,000 has been received and invested (applause). I would like to add how much I have looked forward to performing tliis ceremony to-day: a n d ! feel that our thanks are due to the Special Committee for their continued labours during the past eight years. It is always to mo the greatest possible pleasure to be amongst my Brethren and I regard the attendance of so many at this ceremony as a mark of loyalty, not only to the Craft but to myself (loud applause), in the position which I have filled with much happiness for the last 27 years. I give my fraternal greetings to you all, and may the Great Arcliitect of the.Universe preserve us and give us strength to carry forward our great ideals (renewed loud applause). A Quarterly C o m m u n i c a t i o n was held on September 7, 1927. T h e first subject of i m p o r t a n c e comes from t h e r e p o r t of t h e B o a r d of General Puiposes concerning t h e Q u a r t e r l y C o m m u n i c a t i o n to be held on September 5, 1928, a n d we t a k e pleasure in quoting it: The Board is authorised to state that the M..W.'. The Grand Master has decided, on the invitation of the Provincial Grand Lodge of Warwickshire, to hold the Quarterly Communication of Grand Lodge on September 5th, 1928, at Birmingham. This will be the second time on which avail has been made of Rule 11 of the Book of Constitutions, empowering the M.*.W.'. The Grand Master to hold the September Quarterly Communication outside London in any year he considers fitting, the first being when Grand Lodge met at Liverpool on September 5th, 1923. The assembly at Birmingham will be of the wider Masonic interest because it will celebrate the 200tli year of the existence of a Provincial Grand Master for Warwickshire. T h e Board also called a t t e n t i o n t o a violation of their rules in t h e m a t t e r of wearing emblems a n d t h e like n o t a p p r o v e d b y t h e G r a n d M a s t e r , a n d t h e subject is best explained b y quoting t h e following: The Board's attention has been drawn with increasing frequency of late to the non-observance of Rule 283 of the Book of Constitutions, which prohibits the wearing, either in Grand Lodge or a Private Lodge, of any Masonic Jewel, Medal, Device, or Emblem which has not been approved by the M .•. W .•. The Grand Master. A custom has grown up in some Lodges, and is in certain directions rapidly increasing, to issue Jewels to Officers as they vacate their Offices or for long service. Though the presentation of a Past Master's Jew^el has been accepted because of long usage, it is not desired that the custom should be extended to Officers generally, unless the Grand Master's permission has been obtained, and this course should be strictly observed. Jewels have been authorised for Founders of Lodges, when the designs have been similarly approved; but these are restricted to the Founders themselves, and are not to be presented to the first Initiates or Joining Members, while a bar descriptive . of the difference between the various recipients is not permitted. A point has further to be noted in connection with the wearing of the Badges issued
38
CORRESPONDENCE—FLORIDA.
February,
by the three great Masonic Institutions at the Annual Festivals. These cannot be worn after the year immediately succeeding the Festival, unless the Grand Master has given special authorisation for permanent use. T h e B o a r d also directed a t t e n t i o n t o t h e practice, in some places, of using t h e M a s o n i c F r a t e r n i t y as a field of profit in selling tickets for races a n d t h e like. F r o m t h e r e p o r t on t h i s subject we q u o t e t h e following: The Board has had its attention drawn by Secretaries of Lodges in various parts of the country to tlie fact that they liad received from the Masonic Hall, Delhi, India, books of tickets for what was described as " T h e Delhi Masonic Club Viceroy's Cup Sweep, 1926." Eighty-five per cent, of the money subscribed was to be divided among the various horses that started, while the remaining 15 per cent. Avas allotted for expenses and a New Masonic Temple Building Fund. Immediately the matter was brouglit to authoritative attention at Freemasons' Hall, a telegram was sent to the District Authorities stating that it was entirely contrary to Masonic rule that such a sweepstake should bo organised, and directing that the tickets should not be circulated. The Board is strongly of opinion that the promotion of sweepstakes or lotteries for alleged Masonic objects is a practice wliich in no form can be allowed; and it feels assured of the support of the Graft generally in this expression of opinion. F u r t h e r a c t i o n s t r e n g t h e n i n g t h e position t a k e n by t h e B o a r d , was taken. W e find in t h i s journal a s p l e n d i d r e p o r t from t h e P r e s i d e n t of t h e i r B o a r d of G e n e r a l P u r p o s e s , R . . W.'. B r o t h e r Sir A L F R E D R O B B I N S , P a s t G r a n d W a r d e n , concerning his mission t o S o u t h America. T h i s extensive t r i p w a s made in behalf of M a s o n r y in t h a t portion of t h e globe, a n d his f o r m a l report would i n d i c a t e t h a t he went i n t o t h e conditions of M a s o n r y in S o u t h A m e r i c a in a m o s t t h o r o u g h m a n n e r . W e regret t h a t space will n o t p e r m i t of p r i n t i n g his report.
FLORIDA —1927. L o d g e s , 254; members, 30,404; n e t gain, 3,006. Jacksonville, April 9, 1927. CAKY B . F I S H , M . - . W . - . G r a n d Master. W e observe t h a t our G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e was again a b s e n t which is a n a n n u a l occurrence. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r h a s n o t h i n g special t o offer in presenting his a n n u a l address o t h e r t h a n t h e u s u a l words of welcome a n d expresses t h e feeling t h a t t h e year h a s been one of gratification and satisfaction to him. L e t t e r s of D i s p e n s a t i o n were issued for t h e formation of a n u m b e r of n e w lodges. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r s t a t e s t h a t he has officially visited all of t h e s e new lodges except one. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r w a s asked w h e t h e r it was proper t o ballot for initiation after degree work. H e answered in t h e affirmative, s t a t i n g t h a t t h e lodge w a s entirely in t h e h a n d s of t h e M a s t e r and as such he
1927-28,
CoBBESPONDENCE—FLORIDA.
39
could have an election for initiation at any time during the Communication. We consider this good, common sense which spells that if a brother has " a n ax to grind" he must remain until the lodge closes. Under the head of "Masonic H o m e " the Grand Master reports that he discovered that they were using gasoline stoves for heating purposes, which he considered dangerous. Steps were immediately taken through the Executive Committee and Trustees, to make a change looking toward the prevention of fire and possibly loss of life. Kansas Masons appreciate this suggestion because in 1916 our Masonic Home was destroyed by fire and in the ruins were found the renaains of five human beings. The Masonic Home was remembered by their late Brother ALBERT W. GILCHRIST with a bequest, probably in the neighborhood of $300,000.00 or $400,000.00. A very complete report concerning the hurricane relief is presented by Grand Master FiSH and from it we observe that the total amount contributed for this purpose was $114,236.97. The Grand Master recommends that on account of the good automobile roads the state be redistricted and that the suggested changes be reported to Grand Lodge one year hence. We quote the following few words from the Grand Master's conclusion: This has been a strenuous year and has taken most of my time, and now that the year Is nearlng Us close, I will relinquish the gavel to my successor, trusting that he and his successors will not have the problems to meet which we have had this year.
We realize that the Grand Master had indeed a strenuous year in view of the terrible hurricane which destroyed so much property and the loss of so many lives during his administration. One of the new lodges works in the Spanish language only, and the committee recommended that they be required to promptly adopt a set of by-laws in conformity with the uniform code and submit them to the incoming Grand Master for approval. We feel warranted in quoting the following from a splendid oration delivered by Major AUGUSTUS E . BARNETT, knowing full well it will be appreciated by our readers: Another day I went to the roclis with a great geologist. He uncovered the foot-prints of a mastodon in the primeval slime, then showed me fossilized forms of living things that had passed through their genesis of gladness and their exodus of sorrow. Turning to the Professor 1 asked him the same question, "How do you account for i t ? " and he answered, "Evolution." Though I find these three words everywliere today in books, magazines and newspapers, I cannot regard them as standing for final caiises. For when you speak to me of law my mind naturally asks, " W h o made it, controls it, sustains it, modifies or over-rules i t ? " When you speak to me of energy my mind naturally Inquires, " Who is back of energy, what or who is behind force? " When you speak to me of evolution I cannot help inquiring, "Who or what is behind the astounding development or unfolding for which the word evolution stands?"
40
CORRESPONDENCE—FLORIDA.
February,
In other words you have not reached the last link in the chain of thought when you come to law, energy or evolution. You do not reach the terminus of thinking until you come to absolute'power, infinite wisdom, goodness higher than the Heavens, deeper than the sea and love boundless as the universe; in other words, to the Eternal Being whose most familiar name is '.' GOD." What comfort the true Mason finds in the profound conviction that in GOD he lives and moves and has his being! All nature takes on a different aspect. TENNYSON was found one day -in Scotland down upon his knees, looking into the abysmal deptlis of a tiny heather bell. BBOWNING says: "Little flower in the crannied wall. As I take thee into my hand, little flower, root and all, Tf T could tell what thou art. Then could 1 toll what GOD and man and all is." 1 often feel that the old pantheistic philosophers were feeling after a truth which this generation has allowed to slip. They believed that every grove was GoD-haunted. that every blade of grass had a soul of deity in it. As they gazed upon the human form divine, watched the fountain playing in the bright noon sunshine, its foam transformed into pearls and its spray into scattered jewels, as they gazed on the old pine tree triinks fringing the mountain's edge, and crimsoned with the glory of the setting sun, they began to sing those songs which have floated down to us through the ages, they said their inspiration was from the gods, and I cannot help thinking that they were largely right, for there is more truth than is commonly supposed in .JOHN TYNDAI-I.,'.S much censured dictum that in the brown clod of nature dwells the promise and potency of all life, for where life is, GOD is and that is why the ocean whispers to us of infinity, that is why the evening landscape breathes on us a heavenly calm, that is why the meanest flower that blows has in it thoughts that lie too deep for tears. W e likewise quote t h e following from t h e s a m e a d d r e s s : No man unless he has become callous to the finest, most delicate, sacred tilings of life, can pass through the successive steps of Masonic initiation and be quite the same man that he was before. I have seen quite a little flippancy and gay frivolity in the candidate. I have heard him crack jokes and say funny things about "riding the goat," climbing greased poles, and branding with hot irons. That was in the ante-room. But when he enters the Lodge room, and the gloomy stillness is broken by the solemn strains of "Nearer, My GOD, to Thee," "Lead. Kindly Light," or "Solemn Strikes the Funeral Chime," and he is reminded that none should enter upon any great or important undertaking without first Invoking the aid of Deity, and that though at other stages he had others to pray for him, now he must pray for himself, by this time all flippancy has vanished, all pride is humbled, and the angel of seriousness, long denied an entrance to the soul, is permitted to enter, and in many cases abides there forever. Hence, painful and galling to the Mason are libellous statements regarding the workings of the Institution. With what contempt he reads in an ecclesiastical sheet that the Masonic Order is atheistic: that profane rites are practiced; that the Sacraments of the Church are travestied, and that SATAN is worshipped. Our defense may bo entrusted to others. The New York Independevl, in this case, acts as our attorney, and avers that, "half of the membership of these organizations are communicants in Christian churches, and that their .life and practice will compare favorably with the other half, not members of such orders." If that is not enough, let the thousands speak who have been cared for and provided m t h temporal necessities by our Lodges. Let widows and orphans testify. Let these myriad testimonies converge and swell and roll in one mighty
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—GEORGIA.
41
thunderous protest against the lying stigma and the foul slander, whether uttered by editor or priest, that our Order is low or debasing, hostile to sound ethics or genuine religion. B r o t h e r E L I P . H U B B E L L presented his second R e p o r t on Correspondence a n d we a r e grateful for a review of our 1926 Proceedings, a t which t i m e M.'. W.-. C H A R L E S A. L O U C K S presided. H e refers t o o u r practice of filing t h e original charters of lodges in our fire-proof G r a n d Lodge Building a n d furnishing in place of t h e original a certified p h o t o graphic copy. As a n evidence of t h e great i m p o r t a n c e of this practice we would call a t t e n t i o n t o t h e fact t h a t n o less t h a n t h r e e of our lodges were destroyed b y fire within t h e last sixty d a y s a n d u n d e r o r d i n a r y circumstances t h r e e . original charters would h a v e been destroyed. W i t h our present s y s t e m it is an easy m a t t e r t o repi'oduce t h e original b y m e a n s of a certified photographic copy, a n d t o t h e average individual it is h a r d t o detect it from t h e W a r r a n t first issued. B E N J A M I N E . DYSON, M . ' . W . ' . Grand Master, Jacksonville.
WiLBER P . W E B S T E R , R . ' . W . . G r a n d Secretary, Jacksonville. E L I P . HuBBELL, Correspondent, T a m p a . N e x t Annual, Jacksonville, April 17, 1928.
GEORGIA-1926. Lodges, 6 4 8 ; m e m b e r s , 68,890; n e t loss, 9 3 1 . Macon, October 26, 1926. W . S. RICHARDSON, M . - . W . ' . G r a n d Master. T h e j o u r n a l of Proceedings is u n u s u a l i n t h a t i t fails t o show t h e place where t h e G r a n d Lodge held its A n n u a l C o m m u n i c a t i o n ; however, t h e title page indicates t h e place a n d therefore t h e needed information is secured t h r o u g h t h a t source. K a n s a s w a s represented as usual b y B r o t h e r P . T . M C C U T C H E N , Grand Representative. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r in s u b m i t t i n g his a n n u a l address first expresses his regrets a t n o t being able t o carry forward t h e work as a n t i c i p a t e d on account of t h e serious illness of his wife. A m o n g other t h i n g s he h a d t h e following t o s a y : The past twelve months in this Grand Jurisdiction has been a season of peace and harmony. Naturally, there have been local perplexing problems and various opinions, but they have been settled amicably, in a spirit of brotherly love, and, in my opinion, properly and for the best. It has not been a, year of loud acclaim—rather it has been a time of the understanding and faithful performance of our various duties. We have progressed in the conduct and operation of our several institutions. Looking back over the period, it seems to your Grand Master that it has been a time for establishing more firmly our foundations—for learning anew the lessons taught by our great association, so that we may be enabled to build more thoroughly for the years to come.
42
CORRESPONDENCE—GEORGIA.
February,
The Grand Master decided that a Master Mason could examine a brother privately for admission as a visitor although he was of the opinion that the better plan would be the appointment of a committee in the regular way. The Committee on Jurisprudence, however, took the view t h a t in all such cases the examination should be made by a committee regularly appointed for that purpose. The Grand Master had the pleasure of introducing Brother ANDREW SHILLING as the oldest Tyler in Georgia, having served his lodge in that capacity sixty years. Speaking of this aged brother the Grand Master related the following: More than seventy years ago, a young German emigrant, a tailor by trade, came to America and settled at the beautiful little town of Perry in Houston County. "When the war came on, lie joined the forces of Georgia and fought in the Confederate Army. After this service, he joined Houston Lodge No. 35, and soon thereafter, was elected their Tyler, and for all these long years he has filled that office faithfully, and Houston Lodge, in appreciation of his long service, furnishes him a room in their Lodge building and daily that faithful old Tyler goes down and opens his tailor shop. When I was Grand Master, in the town of Perry one evening, I was wondering how I was going to get a room and my supper. No hotel? were open but I saw a Masonic sign and a light in the hall, and I said I have never used Masonry before, but surely it will feed a hungry man. So I went up and met the Old Tyler, and said to him: " 1 am N . H. BALLAKD, Grand Master of the Masons of Georgia," and ho looked me up and down, then said, "You're no Grand Master, you don't look like a Grand Master." The following regulation was adopted through the report of the Committee on Jurisprudence, which may be of interest to our readers: Where a candidate is elected to receive a degree in Masonry, and does not present himself within six months thereafter to receive the degree, a new committee on character must be appointed and must make report, the report to be balloted on, and the candidate elected as in the" first instance. T h e u s u a l review was p r e p a r e d b y B r o t h e r R A Y M U N D D A N I E L , a n d we regret t h a t we c a n n o t q u o t e t h e preface t o his excellent review in full; however, we c a n n o t refrain from q u o t i n g a portion, k n o w i n g full well i t will b e enjoyed b y o u r b r e t h r e n : We are unfair if we do not acknowledge that today is " t h e best of times, the age of wisdom, the epoch of belief, the season of Light." We are unjust if . we do not gladly acclaim that, in many ways, the world has advanced, and Is continuing to move on to heights and achievements of wliich man has never dreamed. On the other hand, we face the disasters of smugness and complacency if we do not admit, meet and overcome the dangers of " t h e worst of times, the age of foolishness, the epoch of incredulity and the season of darkness." We stand today by the tomb of a past age and the cradle of a new era. In the grave of the former years our forefathers rest in their calm slumber, wrapped like proud warriors in the sainted flags of heroic battles. In our eager, hectic anticipation of a greater future of material development, we do not maintain suflicicnt remembrance of and reverence for the foundations they established in their season. Too often we appear content to let the dead bury its dead, even interring, unclaimed and unapplied, the precious heritage wrought and left for our prob-
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—GEORGIA.
43
lems and our conduct. Likewise our minds fail to linger upon that immortal question—"If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous d o ? " Continually do we ignore that necessary prayer— "Lord GOD of Hosts, be with us yet, "Lest we forget—lest we forget." So often, we forget xitterly the old when we take on the new. The most optimistic cannot fail to admit that wo are well ^vithin the threshold of a new cycle in which customs, morals and laws are undergoing changes—^^an aluminum age of a desire for lightest things, in which ideals and principles are bartered for temporal gain and vanity. Fundamental and proven laws are disregarded, and there pour out demands for enactment of multitudinous class and special statutes as legislative M A C DUFFS lay on until society shrinks as from a pestilence and, although be damned, cries, "Hold, enough!" We have abandoned the worship and pursuit of ideals in conflicts of selfish interests; sensationalism, rather than logic, is the inspiration, source and criterion of our thought. We have substituted the false doctrine of Nationalism for the principle of Nationality. We presume that each of us, individually, can settle all problems, forgetting that the concern of the people is one. Although such is the analysis of the Present, there remains the steadfast fact that Truth is immutable—that, while we are traveling under the storm billows of suspicion and dissension, on the heights are the radiance of Eternal Principle and the Ideals of the Immortal ages. On account of the fact that Freemasonry is a part of life, the question naturally has arisen in the minds of many as to what part our Fraternity shall play; how it may aid to clarify and adjust the problems of a new epoch and establish the policy of progress that shall bring right and lasting achievements, and not a period dependent upon materi.illzation for its paltry success; how it shall assist in the restoration or enlargement of righteous citizenship, not only for the sake of our members, but for the welfare of our country and the good of humanity. First, let us establish firmly in our minds what Freemasonry is. Such is necessary, for even our Fraternity feels the influence of a period in which all fundamental principles are being attacked, disregarded or forgotten. The ancient charges hold that " n o institution was ever raised on a better principle or more, solid foundation." Tlie lectures of the Fraternity state that the Institution is " a beautiful system of morality—" an organization apart from and above political, religious, social and sectional bickerings and bigotry. It is a far-flung brotherhood which seeks to teach the principle promulgated ' by the distinguished scholar and clergyman—Brother Reverend JOSEPH FORT NEWTON—that "there is only one sin and that is hatred; only one virtue, to love GOD and our fellow man." T h e r e p o r t as usual is prepared in a concise, well a r r a n g e d form, t h e subjects being p a r a g r a p h e d in such a m a n n e r t h a t i t is e a s y t o cull from i t those m a t t e r s which are considered of most i m p o r t a n c e ! Our Proceedings for 1926 are included in his review. A. G. M I L L E R , M.-..W.-. G r a n d Master, Waycross. P R A N K F . B A K E R , R . - . W . - . G r a n d Secretary, M a c o n . RAYMUND D A N I E L , Correspondent.
We conclude this review with the regret that we are imable to find from the journal the date and place for holding the next Annual Communication,
44
CORRESPONDENCE—GUATEMALA.
February,
GUATEMALA —1925-1926-1927. Lodges, 18; members, 402; net loss, 100. Guatemala, January 30, 1926. BERNARDO ALVARADO T . , M.-.W.-.
Grand Master. We are pleased to quote the following from the Grand Master's address: Complete harmony has existed among the Lodges of the Jurisdiction; matters between Lodges which came up for resolution and which might have caused friction between some of them, were handled in the most fraternal manner and the good will of interested Brethren brought about favorable solutions as a logical consequence. Thus, nothing occurred to disturb that harmony which is the support on which our Institution rests. I have taken pains to promote a closer understanding among the Brethren of t h e Jurisdiction and it is a cause for true and sincere satisfaction to me that T am able to inform you that we are on the right road.
*
*
*
*
*
*
It is encouraging to see the Masonic spirit of those Brethren who, some times few in number and conquering great difficulties, labor for the advancement and progress of the Order. In Quozaltenango, as you know, the Brethren own a fine temple; in Mazatenango they are preparing for the construction of their own building, and in Pajapita.work is well advanced on the new temple which the Brethren hope to inaugurate about the middle of the year. Our most decided cooperation is due to our Brethren who in eleven Lodges in the Departments are working for the advancement of Masonry, and at times have to do so in a very unfavorableatmosphore. Among them there are men who travel as far as twenty-four miles on horseback to come,and help along the work of their Lodges, spending a number of dollars for each meeting, and thus giving us a fine example of the one who stands ready to make physical and financial sacrifice to comply with his duties as a Mason.
* * * * * * The Brethren have not forgotten Charity—that great Masonic Virtue. Assistance to Masons and non-Masons has continued with regularity. Over 600 dollars were contributed to .the Red Cross, about 200 dollars to the Babies' Home, and various amounts in many other cases of collective and individual charity. You will find the details in the corresponding statements. "We have not admitted many new members: on the contrary, I have rather endeavored t o restrict the admission of candidates for, as you know, there have been cases where the selection of new material was proceeded with rather carelessly. I have also tried to eliminate those who do not comply with their masonic duties. This labor of selection and elimination is a difficult task which necessarily must develop slowly, but we are progressing very satisfactorily. Our laws are very clear and explicit in determining the share of each in the work, and all there is to do, is to carry them out. Some believe that our legislation is very drastic, but I do not agree with them. Masonry is an insbitution which imposes severe duties and he who cannot comply with them must not continue in the Lodge. In the Masonic Beehive there is no room for drones; there is a place only for those who are ready to labor for the advancement of masonic ide;ds, all of which are conducive to the welfare of mankind. I sincerely hope that t i e Brethren who are charged with continuing the direction of Masonic work m Guatemala, may follow the path laid out. I believe that we may be satisfied with the results already obtained. I t is true that our membership is small, bi't Masonry needs quality and not quantity.
1927-28..
CORRESPONDENCE—ILLINOIS.
45
T h e G r a n d Secretary, R.-.W.'. B r o t h e r E D W A R D B . C O F F E Y , s u b m i t s a n i iteresting a n d complete r e p o r t except a synopsis of r e t u r n s or a table showing t h e n u m b e r of lodges on t h e rolls a n d t h e t o t a l m e m bership. H i s r e p o r t includes a review of t h e several C o m m u n i c a t i o n s held, in which h e s u m s u p briefly t h e transactions a t each C o m m u n i cation. M.^RI0 H . WiLLEMSEN, M..W.". G r a n d M a s t e r . E D W A R D B . C O F F E Y , R . . W . - . G r a n d Secretary, G u a t e m a l a .
HONDURAS —1926. Lodges, ; members, ; n e t gain, '—. T h e A n n u a l C o m m u n i c a t i o n w a s held J a n u a r y 20, 1926, w i t h Brother A N T O N I O B . R A Q U E L , G r a n d Master, presiding. M a t t e r s of a local n a t u r e only a r e reviewed in their Proceedings, and therefore t h e writer h a s b u t little t o report. I t seems a controversy exists between their G r a n d Lodge a n d t h e G r a n d Lodge of Scotland concerning a question of jurisdiction. ANTONIO B . RAQUEL,
M . - . W . - . Grand
Master.
S. H E R N A N D E Z Y H E R N A N D E Z , R , - . W . ' . G r a n d Secretary, T e g u c i galpa,
ILLINOIS-1927. Lodges, 1,006; m e m b e r s , 290,642; n e t gain, 4,677. Chicago, October 1 1 , 1927. D A V I D D . K I N G , M.-.W.-. G r a n d Master. I m m e d i a t e l y following t h e opening of t h e G r a n d Lodge a memorial service w a s held for M.-.W.-. B r o t h e r G E O R G E M . M O U L T O N , P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r , a n d B r o t h e r E M M E T T H O W A R D , Senior G r a n d W a r d e n . T h e r e m a r k s concerning B r o t h e r M O U L T O N were offered b y B r o t h e r B E L L (Proceedings do n o t indicate his given n a m e ) , a n d we are pleased to quote t h e following: I am sure every one of us this morning is bowed in sorrow when we reflect that this good brother has left us for his Eternal-Home. For many years he has been a great power in this Grand Lodge. By his wisdom he has contributed much to the correctness of our procedure. His genial presence has always bid us welcome when we came here, and we have always loolied forward each year to a happy reunion with this distinguished brother. No matter what difficult questions might need solution, the wisdom and experience of this good brother came to our assistance, and added materially to their correct solution. Brother MOULTON had been active in this Grand Lodge for many years. I know we shall miss him, and we all regret that he is gone, but I think we may reflect, - and there is something of selfishness in this thought, that if Brother MOOLTON had been spared to be with us for a few more years, we would profit by his counsel and advice, which we have now lost; but what has he lost?" Had he
46 .
CORRESPONDENCE—ILLINOIS.
February,
remained with us, wo could have used him to our profit. With him, it would only have been continued service, which would have added nothing to the distinction which he had already attained. But he is now gone. His work is done, his race is run, his crown is won. The good man sleeps. He sleeps, not that sleep t h a t knows no waking. He sleeps only in the sense that he has passed through that shadow which separates time from eternity, and has emerged from that shadow to the heights beyond, where he will live in eternal light. AVithhim, this is not extinction, but alteration. I t is not obliteration, butexalta. tion. He has been taken to a field of glory, to a home of eternal rest. X am sure, my brethren, you don't expect me, nor would the Grand Master permit, t h a t I should make any extended remarks today. I therefore shall content rayself, and I know you unite with me, and with our other brethren throughout the state, in expressing our sorrow that tills distingulslied brother is to bo with us no more. We shall miss him here I know, and yet, I know that all good Masons unite in an unfaltering trust that what men call death, is not the end of life. I know that you and I, and all of us, turning our sin stained faces toward high heaven, look onward and upward to that glorified throng, standing on the other shore with hands outstretched, to welcome us to a peace, which shall endure forever.
Brother SCOTT then followed with remarks concerning Brother HOWARD which are limited to a reference to his Masonic affiliation
and his usefulness as a citizen of Quincy. From the address of the Grand Master we quote the following: In response t o the first call for an annual meeting of this Grand I^odge there assembled in the city of Jacksonville on Monday, October 20, 1840, twenty-tiu-ee members of the Masonic fraternity, of which eleven were Grand Lodge officers, seven representatives of lodges and Ave visitors. Apparently there were four lodges represented at this meeting, the total membership of which amounted t o less than one hundred Master Masons. Contrasted with these figures we have the fact that there are gathered here this morning the representatives of more than one thousand lodges and almost 300,000 members of the fraternity. When we try to realize the difference between these two gatherings, not only as to the number of people involved but the vastly Increased complication of interests that have been brought about by the activities of the organization during all these years, the comparison reaches out almost beyond human comprehension. Well may we conclude that we can hope t o succeed in the administration of these vast and complicated interests only under Divine guidance.
Under the head of "Radicalism" we feel the following remarks will be of interest to our readers: Because the great body of our citizenship is composed of law abiding and patriotic men and women, our country has always weathered the storm of ungrounded criticism and of insidious attacks by anarchists, communists and so-called "Parlor Socialists." Tliese extremists seek many disguises to conceal their cunning purpose of weakening the supporting pillars of American principles. An illustration of this is found in the recent effort to disturb the peace and harmony of the entire citizenship of this country under the guise of protesting a trial in the State of Massachusetts of two men who were duly convicted of crime according to the law of t h e land. We have become so accustomed to security in our enjoyment of the blessings of our institutions that there may be danger of our falling to realize that there are in this country today influences tending to radical changes that will endanger the opportunities which those who will come after us are entitled to enjoy and which have been our sacred legacy. We are all, of course, devoted to liberty, but we believe like DANIEL WEBSTEU that "Liberty exists in proportion to wholesome re-
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—ILLINOIS.
47
straint." Undivided allegiance to public authority must be required. The sanctity of our duly constituted tribunals must be maintained. With a citizenship that voluntarily establishes and defends them, the cause of America is secure—without it, all else is of little avail. It is gratifying, as well as fully to be expected, that no such un-American expressions have been heard in our circles, nor uttered by the lips or pens of Masons. But that alone should not satisfy us. Our duty as citizens and Masons is plain. Masonry has ever been concerned with the stability of government, the supremacy of law and the maintenance of peace and order among all classes of society. Our obligation of membership requires fealty to our country. The initiate who comes into our ranks is enjoined at the outset to be exemplary in the discharge of "his civil duties, by never proposing or countenancing any act which may have a tendency to subvert the peace and good order of society; by paying due obedience to the laws under whose protection he lives, and by never losing sight of the allegiance due to our country." The charge to each installed Master demands that as a citizen he shall be "loyal to his government, obedient to its laws, prompt in the duties he owes to society, and a pattern of fidelity in all social and domestic relations," and he solemnly obligates himself " t o be a peaceable citizen and cheerfully to conform to the laws of the country" and " n o t to be concerned in plots and conspiracies against governments but patiently to submit to the law and the constituted authorities" and " t o pay a proper respect to the civil magistrates." T h e subject of "Qualification of C a n d i d a t e s " received a t t e n t i o n a t his hands, a n d we feel justified in quoting his r e m a r k s as t h e y cover t h e question of t h e carelessness of committees in m a k i n g a n investigation of petitioners, which subject is n o t confined t o Illinois: Several years ago the Grand Lodge adopted a new form of petition, the principal thought back of which was to give lodges the benefit of additional information regarding 'petitioners. As the law requires that one who recommends a petitioner must have personal acquaintance with him, one of the new provisions on the petition is that each recommender shall state the length of time he has known the petitioner. Under the circumstances it would be impracticable to place a time limit on this acquaintance, but if the provision is accepted seriously and acted upon conscientiously it cannot produce other than good results. During the year I came in contact with an abstract of testimony in a trial by a commission appointed by my predecessor. It developed in the evidence that one of the brethren' recommending the petition of the accused claimed to have known him one-three-hundred-sixty-flfth of a year, and another for one hour. As a warning to others I am convinced that a lodge permitting its members to make a farce out of the law in this respect should have its charter revoked. H e also touches on t h e question of " P h y s i c a l Qualifications" a n d it would seem from his reference t o t h i s subject t h a t their G r a n d Lodge; h a d been " t i n k e r i n g " more or less for several years with this question. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s r e m a r k s were referred to their C o m m i t t e e on Legislation, who r e c o m m e n d e d a r e t u r n t o t h e original law on t h i s subject, which r e a d s as follows: Every candidate applying for the degrees in Masonry must have the senses of a man, especially those of hearing, seeing, and feeling; be a believer in GOD; a citizen of the United StateS of America; capable of reading and writing in English, and possessing no maim or defect in his body that may render him incapable of conforming to what the several degrees respectively require of him.
48
CORRESPONDENCE—ILLINOIS.
. February,
Of course under their regulations this proposition must lay over for another year. The Grand Master recommended an increase in the allowance to the chairman of their Committee on Correspondence to $1,000.00. The subject was referred to the Committee on Finance, but we find no report made, and, therefore, take it t h a t the salary heretofore paid still governs. The report of the Grand Secretary is limited absolutely to financial exhibits, and therefore the writer has no comments to make. We are unable to reconcile his summary of membership with that of last year as the number of members shown at t h a t time was 285,965, while this year's report states that the membership June 30,1926, was 285,740, a discrepancy of 225. The following amendment was offered to their laws, which under the regulations require that it lay over for another year: The Secretary shall keep detailed minutes or records of all business transacted or work done a t all stated or special meoijings of the lodge, including the totals of receipts and disbursements since the preceding stated meeting, in a permanently bound and paged record book, and these minutes when approved by the lodge, shall be signed by the Master and Secretary. The detailed items of receipts and disbursements shall be entered either in the minute book or in a separate permanently bound and paged cash book. Provided, if entered in detail in the cash book t h e totals must be entered in the minute book. The financial records of the lodge may be kept by a loose leaf system. T h i s regulation is quite similar t o o u r o w n ; however, it cannot be enforced unless it b e done t h r o u g h a s y s t e m of District D e p u t y Grand Masters. F r o m t h e report of t h e Illinois M a s o n i c O r p h a n s ' H o m e we n o t e t h e y n o w h a v e a m e m b e r s h i p of 219, a n d i n t h e r e p o r t of their Illinois M a s o n i c H o m e located a t Sullivan it a p p e a r s t h e y now have 201 members in t h a t institution. A v e r y interesting oration w a s delivered b y B r o t h e r P R E S T O N B R A D L E Y , a n d we take pleasure in q u o t i n g a p o r t i o n thereof: Have you ever thought of why we are a secret body? Have you ever given any thought of why we are a secret body? Have we any moral lessons that the world doesn't have, or doesn't know? Every moral truth of Masonry, every human being in the world ought to know. Do you think we are a craft to establish our own individual righteousness and let all the rest of the world go to pieces? Have you ever thought of why we are a secret body? In the first place, it isn't because we have any secrets. You know that too. It Isn't because we have got a lot of secrets. What are our secrets? A few words, grips, passes and signs. Why are we a secret body? In the first place, every man in this room is a picked man. Now you first choose Masonry, and then Masonry chooses you, and every man on the platform, and in the auditorium is a picked man. That means that there were certain elements that entered into your choice. No fool can be a Mason; some Masons are foolish, but no fool can be a Mason. One of the questions, of course, is, do you believe in a Supreme Being? In an unsectarian, undogmatic way, is that matter left to you? No man is big enough to tell another man what GOD is. You have to experience what GOD IS, in your own soul. That matter gives you certain qualities, certain specifications. I t means that you come with a character. It
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—INDIANA.
49
is not the business of Masonry to make character. Tt is the business of Masonry to preserve character. We are not a reform school. And no man ever, in my judgment, ought to be admitted to Masonry to make him a better man. Masonry Isn't in that business. If you want moral reformation, you ^vill And it in a great agency in human society that is in the business of reformation— the Church. The Church says, whosoever will may come. Masonry says— if you can get by the ballot box. Consequently, these two institutions are antagonistic to each other, and because of that truth, and because we are selected, we keep our work upon a secret basis in order to preserve that selection, that we might be worthy custodians of a great ideal. Do you know if you were to open your ranks to the world, Masonry wouldn't survive a hundred years? If you were to throw open the lodge doors to the public, you wouldn't live ten years, and the ideals you are fighting to preserve would perish. That's what Masonry means to me. I have had only one ambition, for GOD'S sake, for humanity's sake, let's dedicate ourselves at the altar of our craft, that we may have a renaissance in our hearts of what Masonry is, and that in the presence of all disorder, and all decay, and all dissolution and all tragedy of temporary life, there shall bo one star in the world's horizon that shall never fade, because of our loyalty and devotion to the sacred and fundamental law, which if obeyed, will guarantee peace and prosperity, not only to every man, but to the entire world. R.'.W.'. Brother GLENN GRISWOLD, our Grand Representative,
was present. M.-. W.'. ELMER E . BEACH prepared the usual Report on Foreign
Correspondence, and we are under obligations for a review of our 1927 Proceedings. LOUIS L . EMMERSON, M . - . W . ' . Grand Master, Springfield. OWEN SCOTT, R . ' . W/. Grand Secretary, Decatur. DELMAR D . DARRAH, Correspondent, Bloomington.
Next Annual, Chicago, October 9, 1928.
INDIANA —1927. Lodges, 559; members, 127,915; net gain, 1,700. Indianapolis, May 24, 1927.
WILLIAM C . GBAKE, M . ' . W . ' . Grand
Master. From the "Foreword" we find the children of the Home gave one of their usual entertainrrients and the Grand Master explained t h a t a beautiful square and compass made from roses was the personal gift of Mrs. NETTIE RANSFORD, Grand Secretary of the Eastern Star of
that state, and who, for a number of years was Grand Secretary of the governing body of the Eastern Star of the United States. Mrs. RANSFORD was unable to attend in person on account of advanced age,
now being eighty-eight years old. The brethren made a visit to the Masonic Home prior to the opening of the Grand Lodge, and on their return were served a luncheon which closed the preliminary arrangements.
50
CORRESPONDENCE—INDIANA.
February.
An address was delivered by Brother SAMUEL D . JACKSON, of
Summit Lodge No. 170, of Fort Wayne, and we feel at liberty to quote the following from his excellent remarks, knowing they will prove of great value to our readers: You make me rich indeed who compliment me by inviting me to come here this morning, and you give me great honor who listen to me. When I know that I stand this morning within the successive shadows of the great men and Masons who through the years have on these occasions addressed you, that honor becomes a glory and a blessing, and within these shades and in the spirit here manifest I should rather sit and meditate and instead of a speaker be a listener. There is a bit of philosophy abroad which has its motto couched in such language as, " D o n ' t take yourself and life too seriously," and I do not deceive myself that this philosophy of not being too seriously concerned about the problems of life is without its value, but on the other hand, I simply can not understand how men can believe that the living of a life is not a most serious thing, and especially in this modern age. We, average Americans of today, in our more sober moments realize and appreciate, I believe, that the social, moral and political status of our people is what it is made to be by the measure of our demeanor and deportment as members of society: our approval or condemnation of the elements of the moral code by which we will be guided and would have our neighbors guided; by our contribution as sovereign citizens to that public opinion which holds the sway of government. Life must be more to us than the latest motor car at its lowest price and the latest scries of home runs by " t h e king of swat", whoever ho may bo. Life is a tremendous trust, and the living of it an awful responsibility. OMAK IVHAYYAM has said, " t h e moving finger writes, and having writ moves on. Nor all your piety nor wit can cancel half a line nor all your tears wash out a word of it." .So far as our relations with tlio world are concerned, it needs no more demonstration than mere mention to have all informed persons in agreement that whereas a few years ago the United States of America held the highest po.sition of moral leadership ever enjoyed by anygovernment since the dawn of time, today we are scorned and repudiated. Yesterday our star was the brightest in all the galaxy of states. Today we tremble for our very security. On the one hand we want peace, but dare not lay down our arms. On the other hand we want preparedness, but we dare not flaunt our powers before the eyes of foreign nations lest we be misunderstood to say that we have chosen the musket and the sabre as our arbiters. Somewhere there is truth to be applied to this great problem. To And i t and to seek to find it is one task of life. This is serious business, and deserves the most careful study and fervent prayer of all who love their country. Nor are we free from confusion within our own borders. Behold, a constitutional amendment instead of being such that all men pledge their lives, their fortunes and their sacred honor to uphold it, it is thwarted on the one hand and zealously pursued on the other. Legislatures in forty-eight states are meeting year after year, grinding out laws, redefining old crimes, creating new ones. A great passion has grown up among us for legislation that will give flower to certain inalienable and constitutional rights of our citizens and greater freedom on the part of the individual from the encroachments of the law, the government and its offlcers. This passion finds expression in laws passed by groups of legislators seeking to liberate again the people. And on the other hand a passion of resentment has grown up in our midst against what we call a crime wave and those who do thwart and flaunt the law. This passion finds voice through other groups of legislators who seek to tighten the hand of the law, put more teeth in penalties, and by reforms in criminal procedure abridge the processes of criminal justice and bring violators to speedier punishment.
1927-2S.
COBBESPONDENCE—INDIANA.
51
Each of these passions springs from the seedling of truth, but if we claim that we have solved the problem and have a general harmonizing legislative policy in this country and in this state, we boast of what we do not possess. And then again, the passing of the home and the home life is the common wail from the platform, pulpit and the press and all those who love the rustic hearth. And it seems to us that the poet was indeed old fashioned who wrote; " The busy housewife plies her evening care. The children rush to meet their sire's return, And climb his knee the envied kiss to share". The modern triumvirate, the radio, the movie and motor car, all display the torment of their common parent. Mischief, and we hear that the youth of today is the embarrassment of all sane minds. And yet each day brings new laurels to the brow of the youth of our land. The swimming of the dangerously infested waters of the Catalina channel by an unknown Canadian lad, the flying of the Atlantic in air less charted than the sea of COLUMBUS' voyage, and that by a lone intrepid American boy, give vindication to the blind, ambitious youth and prove again that those who are coming on are as good as those who have ?one before. - In a serious consideration of life today, if we were sitting as a political body we could greatly profit by a discussion of what is going to happen to America—to her place in the world and to the ability of her people to govern themselves. If we were sitting as an ecclesiastical body we could do well to consider the results of science, to know whether indeed it is the fruit of Divine Providence: but we sit here as Masons tliis morning, and I deem it not unwise for us for a few minutes to look well to our profession as Masons, to see what we can find of truth to meet all the troubles of men. Operative Masonry is the work of men. Speculative Masonry is the work of GOD. That man is in error who supposes that Free Masonry has ever promulgated or established the principles of Speculative Masonry. Free Masonry as we know it today, based upon the legend of a great enterprise in Operative Masonry, neither created the purposes, principles and truths of Speculative Masonry nor expanded those already established. Free Masonry on the other hand has given convenient expression to the purposes and truths of Speculative Masonry, and has provided a method for making the truths involved understandable to man. . We regret t o note t h a t our G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e was n o t in a t t e n d a n c e a t this i m p o r t a n t C o m m u n i c a t i o n . However, t h e m i n u t e s show t h a t this distinguished Brother, R U D O L P H H . H O R S T , was o u t of t h e jurisdiction, a n d therefore, for t h e first t i m e in m a n y years, w a s not able t o a t t e n d . F r o m t h e i n t r o d u c t i o n t o t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s address we q u o t e t h e following: Masonry today occupies an enviable position in the fraternal life of our beloved state. While the numerical growth has not been unusual, nor in excess of the flush years immediately following the World War, nevertheless it has been steady and substantial, the Subordinate Lodges exercising more care in their acceptance of material than was always the case in former years. This is as it should be, as mere numbers is not always the true measure of the strength and progress of an institution.
The Grand Master issued Letters of Dispensation for the establishment of two lodges. During the year eight new Masonic Temples were dedicated, three of which seem to be outstanding in character—those
52
CORRESPONDENCE—INDIANA.
February,
at South Bend, Fort Wayne and Muncie. These buildings cost more than three-fourths of a million dollars each. The Grand Master was asked whether it was permissible, under the regulations of their Grand Lodge, to permit an outside organization to meet in one of their lodge rooms. We herewith submit his answer, which was approved by the Grand Lodge: To this letter I replied that at the last meeting of the M .•. W .•. Grand Lodge of Indiana, held in M a y , 1926, Section 122 of our General Regulations was amended to read as follows: "Every Lodge is prohibited from using its Lodge room, or permitting the same to be used, for any purpose whatever, except for legitimate Masonic purposes, or for use by the Order of the Eastern Star, for strictly legitimate Eastern Star purposes, under penalty of the forfeiture of its Charter"; that I had no authority to alter, change or modify this provision and that same would have to be strictly observed until such time as the Grand Lodge saw fit, if a t all, to make such change as would permit this organization to use a Masonic Lodge hall for its meetings. T h e a b o v e certainly reflects credit u p o n t h e G r a n d Jurisdiction of I n d i a n a . F r o m his conclusion we t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following: Wo read and hoar much in these days of the new freedom for which many are striving. New forces are being released, new ideas being propagated, and a social condition, new at least to this ago, is being advocated with a continuity of purpose that is having undeniable effect upon the belief, life and conduct of men and women of today. We must not limit this progress toward a new and broader freedom. We must not block it. We must rejoice in it. But we must be prepared for it and with our personal efforts to direct it to a Arm and reasonable foundation. Men and women must become worthy to live in it, and must find in this new freedom the moral equivalent of the past masterful authority. Under this new freedom there is a tendency for the individual to become a law unto himself. It is my opinion that this condition develops more often in an individual who has lost contact with or belief in Divinity. That contact and that belief always have been and always will be the supreme need of all peoples and of all nations. I t is my belief that one of the greatest, if not the greatest, requirements in the upkeep of liberty and the progress of the human race is a permanent, deepseated belief in and reverence for GOD. In Him we live and move and have our being, and may His richest blessings ever rest on this great Fraternity. Brother WILLIAM H . SWINTZ, Grand Secretary, submits another of his complete reports, giving in detail all financial transactions and the record of membex-ship. He is gratified to report that each year the reports of the lodges are coming in better than the preceding year. We take it from this that WILLIAM will have the lodges all in line in the course of a few years, and we trust he may be spared for many years to enjoy this condition. Official recognition was extended to the York Grand Lodge of Mexico, which to the notion of the writer was a wise move. The Committee on Jurisprudence ruled t h a t an organization known as the White Shrine of Jerusalem had no right to occupy or hold its meetings in any lodge hall in Indiana. We call this another crack at the numerous outside organizations claiming relationship to the Masonic Fraternity.
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—IOWA.
53
We a r e pleased t o n o t e t h a t t h e salary of t h e G r a n d Secretary w a s increased t o $5,000.00. While we feel t h a t even a t this salary B r o t h e r SwiNTZ is n o t receiving as m u c h as he deserves in consideration for t h e services rendered, y e t we wonder w h y t h i s favor w a s n o t e x t e n d e d t o GAL SO he m i g h t h a v e enjoyed t h e a d d e d compensation during his life. T h e a n n u a l review was p r e p a r e d b y P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r E L M E R F . G A Y , a n d w e are u n d e r obligations for a brief reference t o our 1927 Proceedings, b u t wonder w h y our 1926 journal was n o t m a d e a p a r t of his excellent report, t h e last K a n s a s Proceedings reviewed being those of 1925. We t a k e exception t o t h a t portion of his report wherein he l o c a t e s t h e Masonic G r a n d Lodge Building in Wichita-instead of T o p e k a . W e feel confident t h e W i c h i t a b r e t h r e n will h a v e no objection t o t h i s change of location, b u t fear t h e T o p e k a b r e t h r e n will n o t feel t h a t way. H e also lists t h e n u m b e r of lodges i n K a n s a s a s 351, while a s a m a t t e r of fact we h a v e 448 real live lodges on our roster. O B I K J. S M I T H , M . ' . W . ' . G r a n d M a s t e r , I n d i a n a p o l i s .
W I L L I A M H . S W I N T Z , R . ' . W . ' . G r a n d Secretary, I n d i a n a p o l i s . E L M E R F . G A Y , P .-. G .•. M .-., Correspondent, Indianapolis. N e x t Annual, I n d i a n a p o l i s , M a y 27, 1928.
IOWA —1927. Lodges, 558; m e m b e r s , 86,541; n e t loss, 3,387. Council Bluffs, J u n e 14, 1927.
HARRY MILTON BELT, M.-. W.-.
Grand M a s t e r . Prior t o t h e A n n u a l C o m m u n i c a t i o n t h e G r a n d Lodge w a s e n tertained in t h e a u d i t o r i u m , a n d we t a k e pleasure in quoting t h e following few words from t h e r e m a r k s of B r o t h e r W . E . M C C O N N E L L , chairm a n of t h e local c o m m i t t e e , a n d t h e reference t o this c e r e m o n y : It so happens that one liundred fifty years ago today, June 14, 1777, the American Flag was born. This is Flag Day and we are going to receive the National colors at the hands of the men who risked their lives for the preservation of that Flag and American liberties in the three last wars of our time. We are going to have those Flags from the hands of the soldiers of the.60's, the soldiers of '98 and the soldiers of '17 and '18. At this point, detachments of Civil War, Spanish-American War and World War veterans, accompanied by the stirring music of a drum and bugle corps, entered the Auditorium and marched through the center aisle to the stage, where the Flags were received and placed in position. This was followed b y a p p r o p r i a t e r e m a r k s a n d words of welcome. Following this, t h e D e p u t y G r a n d M a s t e r convened t h e G r a n d L o d g e a n d i n s t r u c t e d P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r C H A R L E S ' C . C L A R K t o present t h e M.'. W.'. G r a n d M a s t e r , H E N R Y M . B E L T , who was received w i t h t h e
54
CORRESPONDENCE—IOWA.
February,
Grand Honors of Masonry. The Grand Master t h e n ' opened the Grand Lodge in Ample Form. In calling the roll of Past Grand Masters silence followed the calHng of the name of M.'. W.-. JAMES D . GAMBLE, and M.'.W.'. CHAKLES G. CLARK addressed the Grand Lodge and paid a rnagnificent tribute to the memory of that distinguished brother, and we take pleasure in quoting some.of his remarks: If ever there was a fighter in a righteous cause, a zealous supporter of the Masonic Institution in all its phases, it was that splendid, rugged old soldier JAMES D . GAMBLE. I first saw him in 1890 in action. I admired the tremendous way in which he met the problems of that day, and they were serious. And I have seen him at every session of this Grand Lodge, fighting for what he believed to be right, an uncompromising foe of everything that was detrimental not only to Masonic life, but to civic life and the national life. A fine old warrior, a splendid Mason, an upright citizen, fallen in life's battle. And so we pay our tribute to him, and say to him neither good night, nor good bye, but goodmorrow Brother, for we take our place in the generation of the present and press onward, to make way for the generation that is to come. Some day the road will bend for each one of us, as it has bent for him. Surely we want that bend to the road to lead to the rim and glory of the sun—not into the dark, the •eternal dark. Father, we are marching on, watch over us carefully, patiently. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r p r e s e n t s an i n t e r e s t i n g preface t o his excellent a d d r e s s , a n d we t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following: In looking back over a busy, happy year—one filled with a desire to serve— I can see some things that might have been done differently, and maybe some things that were not done t h a t could have been done with just a little more effort or zeal on my part.
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I have called on my able Deputy very little during the year, not because he was unable to attend any of the various functions, but because the lodges have a desire to have and see the Grand Alaster in person, and like some of my recent predecessors. I was constrained to gratify that desire as far as it was possible.
* * * * * * The brethren must understand of course that it is not within human ability to visit all the lodges in this state, and I would here suggest that it would be a good thing to divide the state into districts and have some lodge be host to all the lodges in that district one year, and another lodge the next, inviting the Grand Master to bo present with them upon that occasion. If this idea were carried out, it would enable the Grand Master to meet most of the Masters and ofBcers of the lodges each year and thereby bring about a better \inderstanding and acquaintance. Every lodge has some perplexing problems and a few minutes conversation is worth a ream of letters. 1 hope this may be brought about. The various district and picnic associations are helping to crystalize the idea of group meetings, and I urge that more counties or districts organize. Some one has said, " G e t acquainted with your neighbor, you might like him," and group meetings have that very thing in view: to bring us into closer touch and better understanding with each other. In referring to visitations to their lodges we notice they use the word "inspection". Quite different to the custom in Kansas where we limit the word "inspection" to commanderies and official visits to lodges.
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—IOWA.
55
T h e G r a n d M a s t e r feels highly complimented in having been a p p o i n t e d G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e of t h e U n i t e d G r a n d Lodge of E n g l a n d near t h e G r a n d Lodge of Iowa. H e s t a t e s t h a t he received a beautifully engrossed commission a n d a jewel of office. T h e writer occupies a corresponding position in t h e G r a n d L o d g e of K a n s a s on behalf of t h e G r a n d Lodge of E n g l a n d , a n d distinctly calls t o m i n d the beatuiful h a n d engrossed commission signed b y their l a t e King E D W A R D , w h o a t t h a t t i m e was G r a n d M a s t e r . T h i s commission was accompanied b y a beautiful jewel, specially designed for their G r a n d Lodge, which includes t h e English C o a t of Arms, a s well a s Masonic designs. U n d e r t h e h e a d of " Masonic Service A s s o c i a t i o n " he r e c o m m e n d e d t h a t t h e G r a n d Lodge of I o w a w i t h d r a w their m e m b e r s h i p . T h e r e c o m m e n d a t i o n was s u p p o r t e d b y t h e C o m m i t t e e on G r a n d M a s t e r ' s Address; however, some good b r o t h e r , n o d o u b t friendly t o t h i s Association, proposed t o h a v e t h e question a c t e d u p o n separately b y t h e G r a n d Lodge, a n d no d o u b t in deference t o his wishes this was done. T h e r e c o m m e n d a t i o n of t h e G r a n d M a s t e r , however, was confirmed a n d in a m a n n e r which leaves no d o u b t in t h e minds of t h e m e m b e r s of t h e Craft in Iowa. As a m a t t e r of information we q u o t e t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s w o r d s on this subject: After attending a meeting of the Masonic Service Association at Cliicago on November 17th and i8th, and an opportunity to visit the headquarters of the Association at "Washington, D. C , on February 22nd, 1927, I deemed it advisable to serve notice on that Association of our intention to withdraw from membership therein and gave tlie required three months' notice of our withdrawal subject to the action of this Grand Lodge. This step was taken after very mature deliberation on my part. At the request of the Chairman of the Executive Commission of the Association, I wrote under date of December 1,5th, 1926, suggesting certain changes in the administration and policy of the Association, of which I have received no assurance of consideration. U n d e r " M e m b e r s h i p of G r a n d L o d g e " he h a s t h e following t o s a y : It is sometimes difficult for a brother whom the Grand Master wishes to appoint on a standing committee, and who is not a member of the Grand Lodge, to acquire such membership and thiis qualify as a committeeman by obtaining a proxy from one of the principal officers of his lodge. I believe he should be a member of the Grand Lodge in his own right. T h i s subject w a s referred t o t h e C o m m i t t e e on Jurisprudence w h o r e c o m m e n d e d an a m e n d m e n t t o their C o n s t i t u t i o n which u n d e r their laws m u s t l a y over until t h e n e x t A n n u a l C o m m u n i c a t i o n . T h e p r o posed change eliminates proxies. T h e writer as G r a n d Secretary a n d as C h a i r m a n of a Special C o m m i t t e e on Revision of Laws, h a s provided exactly this same change in our S t a t u t e s . Our action in doing this is based on one of t h e Regulations of 1721, which provides as follows: The prerogative, which belonged to every Mason, to be present at the General Assembly was surrendered under the assurance that he should be represented by the Master and Wardens of his Lodge.
56
CORRESPONDENCE—IOWA.
February,
T h e G r a n d M a s t e r r e c o m m e n d e d t h e adoption of a regulation similar t o t h e E d i c t issued b y t h e G r a n d M a s t e r of P e n n s y l v a n i a , which r e a d s as follows: THERFORB, I, WILLIAM M . HAMILTON. Right Worshipful Grand Master of Masons in Pennsylvania, by virtue of the powers and authorities in me vested, do hereby order, direct and declare, that from and after the date hereof, it shall be unlawful for the members of the lodges in this Jurisdiction to become associated, or in any way identified, with organizations hereafter to be established, which reriuire Masonic afllliation as a condition necessary to membership therein, unless and until authority from this Grand Lodge, for the creation of such organization, shall first have been obtained. T h e writer is unable to find w h a t action t h e Grand Lodge took on this r e c o m m e n d a t i o n . T h e G r a n d Master also r e c o m m e n d e d t h e adoption of t h e G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e system a n d likewise we are unable t o find w h a t action was t a k e n b y t h e G r a n d L o d g e . I t is e v i d e n t t h a t b o t h r e c o m m e n d a tions fell b y t h e wayside, as we notice from t h e concluding p a r a g r a p h of t h e r e p o r t of t h e C o m m i t t e e on G r a n d M a s t e r ' s Address, these w o r d s : " O t h e r subjects are discussed b y t h e G r a n d M a s t e r in his able address, b u t as t h i s r e p o r t is already so e x t e n d e d , we refrain from c o m m e n t i n g on a n y other r e c o m m e n d a t i o n of t h e G r a n d M a s t e r . " T h e neglect of t h i s comiriittee t o t a k e cognizance of t h e s e t w o i m p o r t a n t r e c o m m e n d a tions t o t h e notion of t h e writer is inexcusable a n d we believe in all cases where m e m b e r s a r e , a p p o i n t e d on i m p o r t a n t committees of t h i s k i n d a n d who d o n o t find t i m e or t a k e sufficient interest t o do their work well, t h e y should be s u p e r s e d e d b y b r e t h r e n who are m o r e int e r e s t e d in our cause; a t least t h a t is t h e w a y we do things in K a n s a s , a n d t h i s s t a t e m e n t is b o r n e o u t b y t h e records in our A n n u a l P r o ceedings, and it is n o t necessary t o go b a c k v e r y m a n y years t o learn t h a t we h a d a similar condition a n d a c t e d along t h e very line suggested above. T h e G r a n d Secretary presents an u n a b r i d g e d r e p o r t covering absolutely e v e r y t i n g in detail in connection w i t h his office. T h e r e p o r t is indeed an historical one a n d indicates b e y o n d a question of d o u b t t h a t B r o t h e r H U N T is rendering v a l u a b l e service to t h e Craft in their jurisdiction. W e t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g his conclusion: "Each morning sees some tasli begun, Each evening sees it close: .Something attempted, something done, Has earned a night's repose." Thus I close the report of another year's work. I realize that it gives only an outline of the work actuall.v accomplished- With time fully occupied, tlie year has seemed very short, but the time has also passed very pleasantly, since 1 have had the cooi)eration of so many of our brethren. I wish to extend to them all my heartfelt thanks and appreciation. His r e p o r t a s Librarian is equally as full a n d complete as his r e port as G r a n d Secretary. H e m e n t i o n s a m o n g other things, a clipping b u r e a u . This h a s reference t o i t e m s being t a k e n from t h e public press
1927-28.
COBBESPONDENCE—lOWA.
57
and other printed matter dealing principally with Masonic subjects. While we follow this same practice in our own library, yet we aim to be very careful, as only about one newspaper article out of fifty is reliable and worthy of being placed on permanent record in Masonic Archives. To illustrate: Only a few days ago the wife of a member of the Craft in our own city, and although the brother never held a Masonic office yet he was a man whose reputation was above reproach and his wife one of the most estimable ladies in our community—passed away and the newspaper in announcing her death stated that she was very prominent in Masonic affairs in the city. Of course the good lady was a member of two or three of the ladies' organizations which in a measure predicate their membership on Masonry, but the poor taste of the newspaper is manifested in this article. The Grand Lodge paused in its deliberations to pay proper respect to Brother FREDERIC B . PARKER, R.-. E.-. Grand Commander of
the Grand Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Iowa, The report of the Trustees of the Grand Charity Fund shows that they rendered assistance in 205 cases during the past year and the amount dispensed was more than $57,000.00. Brother JESSE A. WEST, Past Grand Master, presented a complete and interesting report of the Committee on Masonic Sanitarium. It appears from the report that the Grand Lodge of Iowa has now completed a magnificent Masonic Sanitarium for the care of those Masons and their dependents who by reason of their necessities and infirmities cannot be properly cared for by the Trustees of the Grand Charity Fund. The report is embellished with a splendid picture of this institution, as well as complete architectural drawings of the interior, showing the arrangement of the rooms and the plan of the buildings. It appears from the financial reports that our good brethren of Iowa have e.xpended more than two hundred thousand dollars in this magnificent enterprise, which is certainly a lasting monument to the Fraternity in that state. . In the report of their Masonic Service, which is purely an organization within their own Grand Lodge, we notice among other means of disseminating true Masonic Light and Knowledge they have a speakers' bureau and the report on this subject contains a list of fifty-nine names of brethren who at different times addressed the lodges on Masonic subjects throughout their jurisdiction. In Kansas we have a somewhat different plan and we are inclined to believe that our proposition is a little better than that of Iowa as we have an address delivered not only at every district meeting, but in every lodge in the jurisdiction at least once a year. The Grand Lodge again renewed its fraternal relations with what is known as the Swiss Grand Lodge, Alpina. They also reaffirmed their recognition of the Grand Lodge of Egypt, which they formally recognized as early as 1876. The Grand Lodge was called f/om labor for the purpose of unveiling a memorial tablet which had been' placed in the halls of the
58
CORRESPONDENCE—IOWA.
February,
school b y t h e S t a t e B o a r d of E d u c a t i o n , t o t h e m e m o r y of P a s t G r a n d Master H E N R Y WILLIAM ROTHBRT.
T h e unveiling w a s followed b y a
series of magnificent t a l k s a n d we regret t h a t space will n o t p e r m i t of q u o t i n g from all of t h e m . I n t h e r e p o r t u n d e r .the h e a d of " G r a n d Lodge L i b r a r y " we t a k e p l e a s u r e i n q u o t i n g t h e following a s t h e t i m e is n o t far d i s t a n t w h e n t h e G r a n d L o d g e of K a n s a s m u s t t a k e u p this work: One of the most bonoflcial works of the Grand Lodge Library is the Issuance of the traveling library. Any lodge that has not received the benefit to be derived from the use of one of these collections has overlooked an opportunity which is unique in Masonic circles. We are glad to note that the calls for these libraries are increasing from year to year, and would suggest to the 162 lodges which as yet have not made use of this department, that they give this matter careful consideration. A s p l e n d i d report on F r a t e r n a l D e a d was presented b y B r o t h e r C H A R L E S S . P E R C I V A L , a n d we a r e pleased t o quote t h e following from i t : GOD said: "Tiet there be light and there was light." Birth, the beginning of our earthly existence, Is not of our own volition. No choice of time, place, parentage or environment is accorded us. The sentence that all must die, to the youth may seem unnecessarily severe; but as age creeps upon us, the severity of the sentence Is mitigated, and almost lost sight of, in our endeavors t o do something worth while—employing our minds in the appreciation of the beauties of nature, establishing and maintaining friendships: and in an attempt to make our earthly existence abound in love, and scenes worthy our best endeavors. There is a definite standard of living that has to do with our character, reputation and conduct, set down specifically in Masonry. To live morally and uprightly before GOD and of good report before the world, is a strong foundation on which to build. If there is anything lacking in such a life. Masonry has no thought of objecting thereto. Assent to an official creed is not essential within the circle of fellowship, one created by loyalty to the common cause. Tliere may exist differences of opinion, but with that primary loyalty affirmed, such differences need not separate, rather indeed, if the mind be under master control, they may enrich the content of faith and experience. A Mason's first care should be t o avoid the reproach of his own conscience, his next, to escape the censure of the world. If the latter interfere with the former, it ought to be entirely neglected. But otherwise there cannot be a greater satisfaction to an honest mind, than to see those approbations which it gives itself, seconded by the applause of the public. A man is more certain of his conduct when the verdict, which he passes upon his own behavior, is thus warranted and confirmed. Past Grand Master Louis BLOCK prepared the usual Report on Correspondence, and of course it is up to its high standard, which is second to none in this country or elsewhere. He is very kind to include with this report a review of our 1926 Proceedings and for which we are under obligations to him. He makes a slight mistake in the statement t h a t the books listed by the Librarian were presented to the Grand Lodge by our late Brother CHARLES HEDINGER, a scholarly physician of Canton, Kansas. The facts are Brother HEDINGER only presented four large volumes comprising the Holy Bible, all of which
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—IRELAND.
59
is fully set o u t in t h e writer's r e p o r t as L i b r a r i a n of t h e G r a n d Lodge of K a n s a s , a n d as shown on page 387 of t h e 1926 Proceedings. B r o t h e r B L O C K ' S references, however, t h r o u g h o u t a r e n o t only c o m p l i m e n t a r y b u t he h a s t h e h a p p y faculty of selecting only t h e more i m p o r t a n t subjects which come before our G r a n d Lodge. D A V I D R . T R I P P , M . - . W . - . G r a n d M a s t e r , Colfax. .
C H A R L E S C . H U N T , R . - . W . - . G r a n d Secretary, Cedar R a p i d s . L O U I S BLOCK, Correspondent,
Davenport.
N e x t A n n u a l , C e d a r Rapids, J u n e 12, 1928.
IRELAND —1926. Lodges, ; members, ; n e t gain, . Dublin, December 27, 1926. T h e R t . H o n . T H E E A R L O F DONNOUGHMORE, K . P . , M.-. W.'. G r a n d M a s t e r . T h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s report was presented b y t h e G r a n d Secretary, a n d we n o t e in his preface a most touching reference t o their l a t e R.-.W.'. B r o t h e r O L I V E R F R Y , a n d we are pleased t o q u o t e t h e following few w o r d s : I do not know, but I tliink I am not exaggerating when I say that I do not think Grand Lodge will be ever the same to mc without R.'.W.'. Bro. OLIVER FRY. He was one of my first friends in Masonry, and I was always in touch with him. He was a man who never spared himself, but T think he was at the same time the least ostentatious worker that I ever came across. He always had everyting at his finger's end, and the information that he gave you was always prodigally at your disposal. He never forced his knowledge upon you, and I believe that that was one of the secrets of his enormous success. I t was not only that he did everything that he ought to do, but he was always ready to go out of his way to perform any of those extra little duties which, to use a familiar phrase, did so much " t o make the show run well," Take the Boys' School. I remember when I was first elected Grand Master that I wanted to go and see the Boys' School, and to find out a little more intimately than I had known before how it was worked. I asked him to put me in the way of communicating with Brother MOORE, and of my wish to go down there. That was not enough for him. He gave up his day's business and took me there himself. H e would have said that that was a small thing to do, but it illustrated the man. Any extra lubrication that could be provided by him was always there when it was asked for. We have lost a very w arm friend, but we cherish a warm memory of him (hear, hoar). H e also referred t o t h e passing a w a y of R.-.W.'. B r o t h e r W . F . W E L L S , a n d we q u o t e t h e following from his r e m a r k s : A very familiar figure in Grand Lodge, he often found himself in good natured opposition to proposals that were made. He was a man of great courage; he never minded being in a minority. We have many of us been in disagreement with him, but you ^vill agree with me, brethren, when I say that ho never minded people disagreeing with him, and I am quite certain that everything he did was actuated by the highest motives—namely, that he worked for the good of Freemasonry, and he set us an example that we need none of us be ashamed to follow.
60
CORRESPONDENCE—KENTUCKY.
February,
He had the following to say concerning the retirement of their Tyler: I cannot help referring to our sense of loss on the retirement of our late Tyler, Brother FROST. He was Tyler of the Grand Lodge of Ireland for thirtythree years, and he made many friends during that time. He has earned his retirement as very few men have earned it, and I am sure we specially wish him good luck in tlio holiday he is taking, and many years enjoyment of our friendship, which we willingly and prodigally offer to him (applause).
The subject of Masonic emblems for business purposes was presented to Grand Lodge in the following words: Members of the Craft arc strictly forbidden to use the fact of their membership as a means of promoting business or of securing private advantage. They are forbidden to use any of the emblems of Freemasonry on a sign or in any other way on business promises, business correspondence paper, or in connection with any business advertisement. A Masonic Certificate must not be displayed or allowed to be displayed on business premises. .Any breach of this ruling will be considered as un-masonic conduct, and may be dealt with as provided by G. L. Law .'!4. This ruling is not intended to apply to the sale of Masonic articles in Masonic circles or to advertising them in Masonic papers. The Rt. Hon. T H E EARL OF DONNOUGHMORE, K . P., M . . W.-.
Grand Master. HENRY C . SHBLLARD, R . . W / . Grand Secretary, Dublin.
KENTUCKY—1926. Lodges, 5 9 6 ; members, 67,186; n e t loss, 4,886. Louisville, October
19, 1926. . G. A L L I S O N H O L L A N D , M . - . W . - .
Grand Master. Referring t o t h e exercises of t h e d a y t h e G r a n d M a s t e r h a d t h e following t o s a y i n t h e preface t o his a d d r e s s : There is always a temptation in the opening of the Grand Master's address to indulge in flowers of rhetoric, verbal pyrotechnics, and other species of intellectual athletics, that go to prove what can be done with the English language; but of all times, this is one in which the Grand Lodge of Kentucky should be confronted with actual facts, plain statements, and such figures as may be necessary to show the delegated authorities of the subordinate Lodges in Ketucky what is being done in the interest of the widows and orphans of our deceased brothers, and what has actually been, and will be accomplished. To that end, I give you tliis report, speaking only of those things in which you must be strongly interested, and omitting the details of trifling matters that come up from day to day in the lives of all Masons. C o n c e r n i n g lodge d u e s , h e spoke as follows: I find that some of the Lodges in Kentucky have their dues as low as S3.00 per year. jSTo Lodge can decently support itself on dues at that figure. No Lodge should have its dues placed less than S5.00 per year. I recommend to the Grand Lodge that it adopt a law making it obligatory upon subordinate Lodges to fix the amount of dues not loss than S5.00 per annum.
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—KENTUCKY.
61
We refer to this subject as we feel there is a weakness along the same lines in our own jurisdiction. The Grand Master believes the one holding that important office is entitled to financial consideration and because of necessary neglect of his business he should be compensated in fairness to the head of Masonry in that jurisdiction. He believes, however, that this is not the time to adopt any regulations as nothing should be done to interfere with the work of completing and paying for their new Masonic Home. He recommends that each initiate be presented with a bible. To the notion of the writer this proposition is largely tainted with sentiment. We cannot believe that the average petitioner for membership in our Ancient Craft does not already possess a copy of the Holy Writ. The Grand Master established a record in that he rendered fortyfive decisions during his administration. All rulings are of a local nature and would not be of interest to our own readers. From the Grand Master's conclusion we quote the following: Masonry is not artificial, nor is i t the product of ages long gone by. I t had no birth in superstitious error, but has grown from the truth of being and the spiritual aspirations of man. I t s whole purpose is to assist the unfortunate, dry the tears of those in grief, and place upon their faces smiles of happiness. As another has said; " W h a t matters.it to us here whether tiiis Order of the Square, the Level, and the Plumb, comes from the Syrians or the Chaldeans, or the Egyptian priests, or from the Hebrew land of kings and prophets, or from the Grecian Academy, I care not whether the mysterious pyramids still testify of its eternity, for you know and I know that this, our faith, is a sublime and practical moral force and this force is the parent of all others." Masonry teaches the best and noblest traditions, builds upon foundations of provable endurance, and teaches us the everlasting truth that " i t is more blessed to give than to receive." Masonry stands for liberty without license, for righteousness and peace and happiness.
We have not yet reached that period in our understanding of life to reject the idea that death must come to each of us. But when all who are here today shall have passed t o the vast eternity beyond the flight of years; when those who come after us shall look with pleasant eyes upon the Home that will prove a shelter and a shield for the little children that are our especial care; when the bosom swells with love and tenderness for the unfortunate little ones, deprived of father's care and protection and we know that they are enjoying the comforts and pleasures that other children have; and when in all the deep vastness of human energy and human affection we look back upon the strenuous days that have intervened since we were here a year ago, we meet again upon the level, realizing that each one of you joined in the construction of these imperishable monuments to the genius of Freemasonry. We note fraternal recognition was extended' t o several foreign Grand Lodges, and t o the York Grand Lodge of Mexico. Past Grand. Master WILLIAM W . CLARKE presents the usual Report on Correspondence, which includes a review of our 1926 Pro-
62
CORRESPONDENCE—LOUISIANA.
February,
ceedings: His report as usual is up to the standard and interesting throughout. C. S. RANKINS, M . - . W . - . Grand Mastei-, Newport. F R E D W . HARDWICK, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Louisville. WILLIAM W . CLARKE, P.-. G.'. M . - . , Correspondent, Owensboro. Next Annual, Louisville, October 18, 1927.
LOUISIANA —1927. Lodges, 271; members, 35,151; net gain, 246. New Orleans, February 7,1927. J. P A U L H A L L E R , M.-. W,-. Grand Master. We are compelled to report that our Grand Representative was not in attendance at this Communication. This seems to be an annual announcement. Concerning their new Masonic Temple the Grand Master referred to it in the following words in the preface to his address: During t h a t time, our magnificent Temple has been practically completed and now rears Its lofty head to the skies in a section that was once outside of the city boundaries and near the locality where our first lodge was compelled to meet a t a time when Masonry was banned from the community proper. This condition was not changed until Louisiana was admitted to the Union and the Flag of these Great'United States, witli its guarantees of freedom in matters of religious belief and conscience gathered us under Its folds. Under the head of " S t a t e of the Order" he submitted the following: There' were several cases during the year which required prompt and effective handling and in which it was necessary to summon and heal badly disturbed conditions, but in every instance, I have found the brethren ready and \villing to listen to admonition and advice and in the instances mentioned, the meetings closed as the ending of a veritable love feast and with all of them giving assurances that there would be no recurrence of the troubles. The Grand Secretary was my constant companion on all trips throughout the State and I must take this opportunity, en passant, of expressing my appreciation of the many courtesies we have received from the membership during our travels. Under the head of "Prevailing Conditions" we take pleasure in quoting the following: During the year the matter of relief has required much attention and added considerably to the duties of your Grand Master. Many of our membership appeared to be imbued with the idea that the moment adverse conditions are apparent t h a t they have only to call upon their lodges to find a ready response. I do not mean to convey the idea that the unfortunate should not be assisted, b u t merely to correct an erroneous impression that Masonry carries any of the features of a Sick Benefit Association and that the moment one of our brethren meets with misfortune, he should feel that the lodge is his only recourse.
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—LOUISIANA.
63
T h e Grand M a s t e r was r e q u e s t e d t o g r a n t a Special Dispensation t o m a k e a Mason of one who h a d lost half of his left foot. Of course he declined. H e likewise refused a dispensation where t h e one seeking admission had lost a t h u m b on his r i g h t h a n d . T h e writer refers t o these t w o cases simply as a m a t t e r of information to our own r e a d e r s a n d in s u p p o r t of our policy t h a t we will not assume jurisdiction either directly or indirectly over those who do n o t come within t h e provisions of t h e L a n d m a r k s of F r e e m a s o n r y . T h e G r a n d M a s t e r , accompanied b y their faithful G r a n d Secret a r y , B r o t h e r J O H N A. DAVII.LA, a t t e n d e d t h e G r a n d C h a p t e r of t h e Order of t h e E a s t e r n Star, where t h e t h a n k s of t h e G r a n d Lodge were tendered these good ladies for their magnificent gift of $25,000.00 for t h e erection of an infirmary for their Masonic Home. Under " E l e c t i o n e e r i n g " t h e following will no d o u b t be i n t e r e s t i n g : Complaint has come to me that in some lodges marked ballots have been passed in the lodge in the interest of certain members for office, also that previous to election meetings of members have been held in the interest of members for office. This condition has caused dissatisfaction amongst the membership. The Grand Lodge condemns electioneering for office, but does not state what is prohibited and there is consequently a difference of opinion as to what can be done. In order to clear the situation, I suggest the Committee on Law and Jurisprudence draw up a resolution defining electioneering and naming such acts as should bo prohibited in election of officers. T h e G r a n d Secretary again presents one of his concise b u t v e r y complete reports, including a statistical s t a t e m e n t of m e m b e r s h i p . W e find an excellent half-tone of t h e Infirmary for children a t t h e Masonic H o m e , d o n a t e d b y t h e Order of t h e E a s t e r n S t a r . B r o t h e r J O H N A. D A V I L L A , as c h a i r m a n of t h e C o m m i t t e e on Correspondence, presents an interesting b u t very brief r e p o r t . F r o m t h e preface t o this review we t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following: For the past four or five years, Masonic writers have been prone to ascribe the direct losses to a house cleaning condition, due to the mad rush of applicants on the part of those who were about to be called abroad in the service of their country and tojaxness on the part .of investigation committees and found the lapsing to be due to those who were attracted to the Order by personal interest and their very natural apathy when this had been served and it was therefore noted as a healthy condition. K a n s a s receives consideration in a review of our 1926 Proceedings. E D W I N F . G A Y L E , M . - . W . - . G r a n d M a s t e r , L a k e Charles. J O H N A. D A V I L L A , R . \ W . - . G r a n d Secretary a n d Correspondent, N e w Orleans. N e x t Annual, N e w Orleans, F e b r u a r y 6, 1928.
64
COBHESPONDENCE—MAINE.
February,
MAINE —1927. Lodges, 206; members, 43,751; net gain, 266. Portland,
May 3, 1927.
DAVID L . WILSON,
M.-. W.-. Grand
Master. Brother ARCHIE L E E TALBOT, our Grand Representative, was
present. We take the following from the preface to the Grand Master's address: May it be in an attitude of deepest reverence before Him who is the Source of all character, of all wisdom and light, that we assemble here. May wo not be slow to acknowledge with gratitude His mercies to the craft. With utmost humility may we seek His guidance in all our deliberations, that "all our works may be begun, continued and ended in H i m ; " that the spirit of concord, brotherly love and truth may prevail, and that the best interest of the Fraternity may be conserved and furthered.
He pays a fitting tribute to the memory of their Grand Tyler, Brother WINSLOW EMERY HOWELL, who •p4ssed to his final reward
during the year. From the decisions rendered by the Grand Master we take pleasure in quoting the following: Early in the year, I received a letter from a Master of a lodge, soliciting my help for a brother who had become involved in a court proceedings through an automobile accident which resulted in the death of a woman. The request was that I might help our brother who " had been traveling in a foreign country." I replied as follows; "Our Grand Secretary has forwarded your letter to me in which you describe the plight in which Brother finds himself. I am sure it must be a trying experience for him, especially as the death of a woman is involved in the unfortunate accident. But I do not see wherein Masonry can be of any help to him in his dilemma. If the accident was not due to his negligence, I have no doubt the courts will exonerate him. But if ho was criminally negligent, and his carelessness has resulted in such a tragedy, what possible influence could the Grand Master of Masons in Maine exert, to secure his Immunity from the law? I can conceive of nothing that would be any more detrimental to our Fraternity, than to have the impression prevail that the Craft could or would exert any such unwholesome influence. Masonry does not stand for any attempt a t interference with the law of the land, or for any effort to exert an influence to bring about a favorable decision for anyone involved in dealings with that law. AVe must never make of Masonry even the slightest attempt to influence the deliberations of the courts of the land, and if any of our brethren have any thought whatever that the Craft can be used for any such purpose, the sooner their minds are disabused of the idea, the better it will be for them and for the Fraternity. Sincerely, I hope that our brother may be able to clear himself of any violation of law which brought about such a tragedy, and may soon be able to proceed to his home and vocation. If ho needs testimonials of his personal character and worth, why n e t have his friends of your neighborhood, who know hiro and Icnow his worth, wxite them for him. But do not try to bring any Masonic influence to bear in the matter. At the very outset, that would be unmasonlc, and unworthy of the great name we bear as Masons."
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—MAINE.
65
T h e following few words m a y be of interest to our b r e t h r e n , a n d we therefore t a k e t h e l i b e r t y of r e p e a t i n g t h e m : An anonymous letter came from a brother asking me to write to the Master of his lodge and give my opinion of an incident supposed to.have occurred at a meeting. I wrote the Master and said I was not answering anonymous letters. If a brother had any question to ask me. let him write and sign his name to the letter. I wanted to know who I was addressing. The letter came back duly signed and correspondence was entered into regarding the questions asked. The Master had rebuked an officer for preparing a candidate improperly, and his rebuke had been questioned. I wrote that the candidate should have been stopped by the Master the moment he came into the lodge room improperly prepared, and that he was quite right in rebuking those wlio had so prepared him as to make him appear ridiculous. There is no room in our work for such nonsense, and every Master, and indeed every brother, should be greatly concerned to sec to it that the work is performed witli all the dignity and solemnity which is its just due. W e likewise q u o t e t h e following answer, which in itself i n d i c a t e s • t h e character of t h e question a s k e d : The funds of a Masonic lodge can bo used only in defraying the necessary expenses of the lodge and for charitable purposes. They cannot be used for any other purpose. Tlie Order of Rainbow Girls bears no relation whatever to Freemasonry. Tlie funds of the lodge cannot therefore be expended in defraying expenses of that organization.
In answer to an invitation to join the official board of what is known as a National Tuberculosis proposition, the Grand Master had the following to say, which we believe is good common sense and certainly meets with the approval of the writer, as well as being an expression of the policy of our own Grand Lodge: I am animated by a great personal desire to say " y e s " to your telegram inviting me to become a member of the Governing Board of the National Masonic Tuberculosis Sanatoria Association. Our Grand H-bdge has e\'idenced its sympathy with you in your good work by appropriating four hundred dollars for thiscause. But when I thinlf that membership on your Board may possibly involve my asking our lodges to hold public meetings for the purpose of arousing the people to the dangers from tuberculosis, and for the giving of lectures regarding this disease, I And myself unable to say " y e s . " Not because I do not think such work is necessary but i>ecause T think there are agencies already operating for the doing of this service, and because it would be establishing a precedent whereby many other equally important humanitarian movements tiiat might affect our brethren could seek the active aid of the Craft, and thus very worthy interests, having no connection whatever with Masonry, might easily come to demand much time and consideration. If a tuberculosis movement in Masonry, why not a cancer movement? "Why not a movement dealing with a multitude of problems confronting our modern life? And all of them very worthy movements. T can see readily, the door opened to a multitude of movements, all of them extremely worthy, but extraneous to the real cause of Masonry. In the long run, I wonder if more will not be accomplished for all these splendid humanitarian movements, if we apply ourselves steadily and persistently to the development of our Masonic ideals in our individual members. It is splendid to have our Grand Lodge contribute of its funds for the support of the work of relieving physical suffering, but 1 question whether that work is really a Held which Masonry should occupy, when there are magnificent agencies at work already In it. I feel that if Masonry sticks to its task of making
66
CORRESPONDENCE—MAINE.
February,
men "Masons, good and true." it will be making a splendid contribution to the life of the world, and doing much indirectly to encourage the support of all organized effort that looks to the alleviation of the sufferings of humanity.
We take pleasure in quoting the following from the Grand Master's conclusion: Nothing in the way of Innovation has marked our course. While there has been much that would call us'into realms of activity not purely Masonic, we have sought to adhere steadfastly to the Ancient Landmarks. I can conceive of no greater contribution that Freemasonry can make to the life of the modern world than that which it seeks to make in the moulding and shaping of character in its individual members. It is for this cause that it exists, and when it has succeeded in instilling in its individual members the great cardinal virtues of friendship, morality and brotherly love, supported by an unfaltering faith in that Supreme Being before whom all Masons most humbly bow, and sends forth its members to live after this manner before their feilowmen, it has accomplished its work, and made its superlative contribution to the life of the world. He who learns aright these lessons, will not only walk humbly before his GOD; he will also express his Masonic character in an unswerving fidelity to his country's ideals and laws, for Freemasonry is rooted deeply in the sterling virtue of patriotism, and he will give himself in a ready and helpful service to his fellowmen, giving of himself as far as he can "without injury to those having prior claim upon him," for the welfare and uplift of his brother man everywhere. The glory of the Ancient Landmarks can never be preserved better, or more enhanced, than when we, as individuals, are giving ourselves in humble obeisance to our GOD; in patriotic devotion to our country, and in deed of service to our feilowmen. Let us never forgot that the crowning glory of Freemasonry is not in its forms and ceremonies, but in the sterling character it seeks to Implant in the lives of its members. Therefore may we give ourselves anew to the efforts to express that character, that we may thus honor the GOD of our fathers and our GOD : that we may be of real service to our day and generation, and that we may develop within ourselves that quality which will fit us eventually to abide in that "tabernacle not made with hands, eternal in the heavens." B r o t h e r A S H L E Y A. S M I T H s u b m i t s t h e R e p o r t on Correspondence which includes a review of ouf 1926 Proceedings. Referring t o t h e p o r t r a i t of t h e writer, he h a d t h e following t o s a y : A portrait in oil, reproduced in cold photographic print adorns a full page. We see the face of M.'.AV.-. Bro. ALBERT K . WILSON, Grand Secretary and Grand Correspondent, and now and hereafter when we are reading his reviews we shall know what manner of man It Is whose work we have long appreciated and enjoyed.
We offer but one correction to the above and that is the official title of the Grand Secretary is not Most Worshipful, but Right Worshipful only, and the readers as well as the writer of the report for the Grand Lodge of Maine can rest assured that the title now possessed by the one in question is not only all that he desires, but possibly more than he deserves. DAVID L . WILSON, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Bath. CHARLES B . . DAVIS, R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary, Portland. ASHLEY A. SMITH, Correspondent, Bangor.
Next Annual, Portland, May 1, 1928.
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—MANITOBA.
67
MANITOBA —1927. Lodges, 103; members, 11,747; net gain, 94. Winnipeg, June 8, 1927. J. C. WALKEK R E I D , M.-. W.-. Grand Master. R.'. W.\ Brother JABEZ MILLER, our Grand Representative, was present. We congratulate our distinguished Brother MILLER on having reached the high office of Deputy Grand Master. We are pleased to quote the following from the Grand Master's address: . . I do not believe that any Grand Master can lay down the gavel of office feeling that he has accomplished everything that he would like to have done, each can only do his best, and the best of some is necessarily better than the • best of others. I have discharged my duties as Grand Master, to the utmost of my ability, endeavouring to keep in view the high ideals of our Institution, and the necessity for keeping our teachings, and the traditions of Freemasonry, as they so well deserve to be kept, iDut still, at the end of my term of office, cannot but feel that much which I would like to have done, is yet undone. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r m a d e a n u m b e r of visits d u r i n g t h e year, including nineteen t o their own lodges. H e w a s requested t o g r a n t permission t o solicit funds for w o r t h y i n s t i t u t i o n s b u t declined in t h e following w o r d s : As Grand Master I have been asked to recommend to the brethren of tliis Jurisdiction for financial assistance, worthy, institutions which are carrying on good and useful work. I have refrained from doing so, one reason being that such a course might prove detrimental to other equally deserving bodies which had not appealed to us in that manner, another reason is tliat to do so would have a tendency to bring a continuous flood of appeals to all our lodges. Referring t o a compliance with t h e i r laws a n d regulations he h a d t h e following t o s a y : A strict adherence to our Constitution and to our usages and customs, is absolutely necessary for the well-being and protection of the Craft. On reading reports of Annual Proceedings of other Grand Lodges as well as our own, 1 find that a large percentage of the rulings or decisions asked for, are occasioned by want of knowledge of the Constitution. Every brother has or should have a copy of it, and it should be a much more simple matter for brethren to consult our printed rules and regulations, than to write to the Grand Secretary asking what they might very well find out for themselves. I might also point out that Grand Masters cannot issue dispensations for purposes not in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution. Through the report of the Committee on Correspondence they declined to extend fraternal recognition to the so-called National Grand Lodge of Egypt (Scottish Rite) and to the so-called Mexican United Grand Lodge at Vera Cruz and the Valle de Mexico. Their faithful Grand Secretary, Brother JAMES A. OvAS, presents his twenty-seventh annual report, and it is just as good as new. It is brief, but it covers all important matters worthy of being made a p a r t .
68
CORRESPONDENCE—MANITOBA.
February,
of the Grand Lodge transactions. May he live long enough to submit many more of these splendid reports. From the address of the Grand Chaplain we take pleasure in quoting the following: Nations isolated yesterday, ready to spring at one another's throats In the distrust of ignorance, are today vying with each other in ministries of helpfulness, in deed of unheralded valour, and in devotion to common tasks and sacred obligations. To safeguard the priceless heritage of human life and of high spiritual development—for after all our achievements in the mere domain of the material are the visible products of the in\isible workings of the spirit of man—^nations have not refused to pour out their life-blood and treasure, and to be his brother's keeper has inspired mankind to noblest deeds of sympathy, service and sacrifice. To so high a calling are we being beckoned, as men and Masons, as we step across the threshold of the years, and enter that vast temple of the Universe for world-wide service and achievement. In the past thirty to forty years the dwellers in the uttermost parts of the earth have become our next door neighbors, and through the perfections of man's Inventive genius and research day by day and hour by hour the events of distant lands are the common topics of our daily intercourse. Whole continents are in co-operation, arid the nations of the world are in Ijrotherhood. In the days to come, passing from the old order to the new, let us not be unmindful of that priceless heritage of moral and social values, come down to us from spiritual forefathers; and in the ancient landmarks and practices of our beloved Order realize the purpose of that Grand Geometrician, wlio has kept them inviolate through the ages, the expression of the eternal freshness of the rule of spiritual insight and experience, which in lowly ininistries and higli sacramental gifts has placed service to a common humanity at ttie i>innaclG of Greatness. A m o n g o t h e r things, t h e C o m m i t t e e on F r a t e r n a l D e a d h a d t h e following t o s a y : How wise is the apostle when he advises that we should live soberly, not in any degree hurting this body or soul of mine by lax words or impure living. We should live righteously, always being just to those who are our neighbors, not only those who belong to our order but to mankind in every land. We are to love our neighbour as we love ourselves, we are the shepherds seeking straying and lost sheep and bringing them back to the fold, and above ail and beyond all we are to be godly, remembering whose servants we are, and that the eye of the Great Architect is upon us and we are under His direction, and are to follow the plan He has prepared for us. One day there will be a review of each life, those who have been true will hear the Master say, "Well done, enter unto My fold," and those whose lives have not been sober, righteous and godly will be condemned. T h e Review of Proceedings was p r e p a r e d b y B r o t h e r J A M E S S . M A C E W I N G , P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r , a n d from his introduction we a r e pleased t o q u o t e t h e following: Clubs and kindergarten organizations continue to receive a few kind words here and there. However,* with respect to the first, rumblings which indicate that familiarity may not always ripen Into friendship are apparent. One of the fads of the present moment is tlie presentation of a copy of the Bible to each newly raised candidate. The idea is doubtless good in itself, but non-sectarianism is the link which binds Jew and Gentile. Buddhist and Mohammedan, the followers of ZOROASTER and CONFUCIUS, in our Lodges. Free-
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—MARYLAND.
69
masonry and tho Lord's Prayer form a point of contact for all races and creeds —let us keep it that way. Some Chaplains both in Grand Lodge and Constituent Lodges offend when offering up invocations, b u t neither their example nor membership makes it necessary or advisable to deviate from general Craft principals.
We regret that the Proceedings of our Grand Lodge are not made a part of this excellent review. JABEZ MILLER, M . - . W . . Grand Master, Winnipeg. JAMES A. OVAS, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, Winnipeg. JAMES S . MACEWING, P.•. G.". M .-., Correspondent, Treherne.
Next Annual, Winnipeg, June 13, 1928.
MARYLAND-1926. Lodges, 118; m e m b e r s , 32,632; n e t gain, 577. Semi-Annual C o m m u n i c a t i o n held in Baltimore, M a y 2, 1 9 2 6 . W A R R E N S . SEIPP, M.-. W . ' . Grand Master.
T h e G r a n d M a s t e r , b y direction of t h e D e p u t y G r a n d M a s t e r , w a s escorted i n t o t h e b o d y of t h e G r a n d Lodge after it h a d been o p e n e d in D u e F o r m . T h i s is t h e custom of our M a r y l a n d b r e t h r e n . T h e A n n u a l C o m m u n i c a t i o n was held in B a l t i m o r e , N o v e m b e r 16, 1926, presided over b y M.-.W.'. B r o t h e r W A R R E N S . S E I P P . B r o t h e r JACOB R O H R B A C H , R e p r e s e n t a t i v e of t h e G r a n d Lodge of Kansas, was present. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r recommended t h a t some form of d o c u m e n t a r y evidence should be shown before a visitor is examined, preferably a card receipt. In conclusion he h a d t h e following t o s a y : My reward is the friendship and companionship of hundreds of my brevhren who are laboring In the grsab Masonic vineyard of service to our fellow-man. doing and sustaining each his share and according to liis ability, with our eyes on a fixed goal ever striving for the ideals of ou.' dreams, wlien menj will be brothers indeed and in truth, and our fellows may join in our joys and our sorrows, our successes and our failures, our tears and our laughter, ever generous of our faults and shortcomings, remembering all of us are only human, and when this condition prevails. Masonry will have advanced a long way toward the successful culmination of our ideals. May GOD bless and prosper our handiwork. F r o m t h e G r a n d L e c t u r e r ' s r e p o r t we are pleased t o q u o t e t h e following: In a great measure, it is the fault of the Lodge and its members if the government is inefficient. In some of the Lodges visited by me, I have found a prevailing custom of officers being advanced regardless of their proficiency or merit of advancement; needless to say these Lodges are poorly officered and the degrees are conferred by Past Masters or visiting Brethren. In such cases, it naturally follows that the Brethren lose interest, fail to attend, and it is only a question of time until the Charter of such a Lodge will have to be surrendered.
70
CORRESPONDENCE—MASSACHUSETTS.
February,
No lodge should ever select incompetent officers, nor should a member accept office unless he expects to assume the responsibiliiies of such office. I have called the attention of the Lodges during the last year that I found negligent in the collection of dues, to the danger of allowing duos to run beyond the oneyear period; in one instance a Master having vacated the East, paid no dues from the time his successor was installed and in another case a Warden owed three years dues; however, these conditions are being gradually oliminatod. If a member cannot pay one year's dues, it goes without saying that he cannot pay two, three or four years' dues, and will naturally permit himself to be suspended • from membership in his Lodge. Lodges should enforce t h e law and collect its dues annually, for I have found that these members will pay the smaller amount rather than be suspended. T h e Grand Master's recommendation regarding a card receipt "bore fruit in the adoption of the following resolution submitted by a special committee: That Committees appointed to examine visitors to Lodges in this Juris" diction shall iirst demand from the visitor the presentation of a card or certificate under seal of his Lodge stating that he was in good standing at the end of the previous calendar year, or during tho current year. Sliould said card or certificate bear the signature of the visitor he shall be required to identify himself by writing his name in the presence of the Committee who shall compare same with t h e signature presented. The Committee sliall then proceed with the strictness as to oath and examination wliich has heretofore prevailed iin Maryland. 1 -*" The card receipt no doubt will prove to be satisfactory documentary evidence in all jurisdictions except New Hampshire. Brother HENRY BRANCH again presents the annual Review of Proceedings, and we are under obligations for his report concerning our 1926 Communication. WARREN S. SEIPP, M.-.W.". Grand Master, Baltimore. GEORGE COOK, R.'. W.-. Grand Secretary, Baltimore. HENRY BRANCH, Correspondent, Leesburg, Virginia. Next Annual, Baltimore, November 15, 1927.
MASSACHUSETTS —1926. Lodges, 312; members, 124,491; net gain, 2,167. The first Quarterly Communication was held in Boston, March 10, 1926. FRANK L . SIMPSON, M . ' . W . - . Grand Master. We are pleased to quote the following from the Grand Master's address: I t also conveys the forcible suggestion that consideration must shortly be given to the question of adequate physical accommodations for our Quarterly Communications. A survey is now being made to ascertain whether additional space may be had and whether additional seating capacity in this Temple may be obtained, and I hope that the matter will be in such form that recommendations may be made to you at our June Communicacion.
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—MASSACHUSETTS.
71
Under " R i t u a l " he had the following to say: As our educational programs and policies are taking shape and are shortly to be put into full operation, it is a proper time for us to consider whether some revision of our Bitual may not be advisable, and whether it is wise longer to continue as a part, thereof, otherwise than by explanation, some portions which are not to be taken literally, and which may not now have vitality or even value, except for their historic significance. I accordingly recommend the appointment of a Committee to study this question and report its conclusions and recommendations to the Grand Lodge. Under the subject of "Delinquents" he reports the neglect of a number of members to meet their obligations under the assessment made by Grand Lodge in 1925, and recommends that the Grand Master be authorized and requested to cause charges to be preferred against these brethren before the Commissioners of Trials. The writer is old fashioned enough to believe that such drastic action would not have been necessary prior to the late war. Conditions have changed and the refusal of a brother to meet an obligation of this kind, which without doubt was given most careful thought on the part of the Grand Lodge, does not reflect very much credit on our time honored Institution. In this connection the Grand Master quotes the following section from their "Grand Constitutions": A Lodge, or Brother, offending against any Landmark, law, regulation, ; or ancient established custom or usage of the Craft, or of this Grand Lodge, to the breach of which no special penalty is attached, shall, at the discretion of the Grand Lodge, be subject to admonition, reprimand, suspension, or expulsion. Under the head of "External Groupings of Masons" we quote the following: I t is t o be regretted that mistaken ideas of the purposes and aims of our institution or misunderstanding of its ideals or the integrity of its professions have furnished the necessity for such action by Grand Lodges. What seems to me to be equally regrettable is the growth of a spirit of impatience a t restraint, and a sentiment of resistance towards the sovereignty of the Grand Lodge on the part of some of the Brethren whose interest has become too deeply centered in such organizations. Too frequently and too commonly is the notion entertained that such groupings of Masons are at liberty to adopt their own ideas of the interpretations which shall be placed upon the declared purposes of our Institution, and that the Grand Lodge is not concerned so long as the manifestation or interpretation is by the external organization as such, and does not purport to be an official pronouncement of the Grand Lodge. " T h e cohesion of Freemasonry is the important object for wWch Grand Lodges were created, and the end for wliich their wisdom and prudence ought to be exercised. The Craft cannot be torn and rended by internal conflicts without the whole structure tottering towards its fall. The gravest part of this duty of maintaining the cohesion of Freemasonry devolves upon the Grand Lodge • * * . I t is only by the tacit or direct consent of the Grand Lodge that such independent Bodies are permitted to seek for initiates or to make proselytes among the Lodges of its jurisdiction, or that any Mason in Its allegiance is permitted to enter or remain in the ranks of such a Body. When that is cut oft such a Body must die. " When the conduct of such an independent institution disturbs the ancient Landmarks, or interferes with the policy of the Grand Lodge in a way that
72
CORRESPONDENCE—MASSACHUSETTS.
February.
jeopardizes the peace, harmony, or interesos of her Masonic Fraternity, it is clearly the duty of the Grand Lodge to protect her Landmarks and Fraternity adequately to the injury menaced, even by denouncing any further recognition of the Body, and by expelling all of her Masons who remain in the offending Body, should such a course be thought necessary. I t is an old and sound doctrine that there is no Mason within the boundary of the State who is not within the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge, and amenable to it for his conduct." This vigorous language is not my own; it is quoted from a report of a Committee of thi.'! Grand Lodge, adopted by an overwhelming vote of Grand Lodge in .luno Communication, 1882. (See 1882 Mass. 86-87.) While it was apj>lied to Bodies professing to confer Masonic rites and degrees, its application to other groups whoso membership is predicated upon Masonic standing is not open to floubt, and has been affirmed by the highest authority. Such action has l)een taken in recent years by Grand Lodges of determining influence— notal>ly by the United Grand Lodge of England, and by the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. P u b l i c i t y receives a t t e n t i o n a t liis h a n d s in t h e following w o r d s : I liave directed the District Deputy Grand Masters to request you to discourage publicity of the private functions of our Lodges, and to aid me in making a survey of the extent to which publicity of our Lodge meetings is now current. This has been done in order that a study,may be made of the matter of publicity of Masonic aiFairs, not only in the public press, but in publications issued by groups of Masons, as the basis of recommendations which it may be necessary for me to make for action b.v the Grand Lodge. The law touching the matter of publicity has been declared from time to time by this Grand Lodge in a very definite and specific fashion: and from data which I have already received I venture to think that the subject is one upon which the Grand Lodge will deem it advisable to take some action, either by way of literal enforcement, or otherwise, as the Grand Lodge may determine. W e feel justified in quoting m o s t liberally from t h i s excellent a d d r e s s , a n d therefore cannot refrain from s u b m i t t i n g t h e following, t a k e n from his conclusion: These are the times for looking forward. • We are inaugurating new programs and new policies which we believe to be designed for the welfare of traditional Masonry; btit as we look forward, let us not be beguiled from the paths which our forefathers have trod. Let lis not be misled by the specious arguments against tradition and adherence to the customs of the past. There is a value in tradition and there is a value in the old things, especially in Masonry, as there is a delight in old friends. As I read the proceedings of this truly grand old Grand Lodge, I find a vitality and a vigor which I would gladly see in this day. Let us adhere to the Landmarks, and be resolute to protect them from the blighting hand of change and indifference. Let us approach the future with confidence, but with determination that the foundations shall not be weakened. Let us guard well our doors and see that none enter therein who are not duly and truly prepared to undergo that training wliich shall fit them to be of significant usefulness in the advancement of civilization and the welfare of mankind. Masonry aims to train men, to build character, to teach love of GOD and of our fellow men; it aims to arouse in its adherents a passion for that which is good and true; an enthusiasm for enlightened education; a tender benevolence toward those who are in distress. I t seeks to inculcate justice and to stimulate support of organized and civilized society and of orderly government. I t fosters the spirit of resistance of the destructive forces of evil, in whatever guise they may appear; it encourages freedom of conscience and of mind and breathes the spirit of liberty under law.
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—MEXICO.
73
I t has a mission,—^never more indeed than in this day, when selfishness and greed, class hatred and license, are threatening the institutions of civilized society. I t calls for men of high Ideals with the courage to live up to those ideals, not only in the privacy of the Lodge-room, b u t in the affairs of every day life. Its welfare demands the closest scrutiny of the character and ideals of all who may seek admission at our doors, not only that they shall be of good repute b u t that they shall have the desire to be of service t o their fellow men. and the actual or potential capacity to be of such usefulness. PRANK L . SIMPSON, M . - . W . ' . Grand Master, Masonic Temple,
Boston. FREDERICK W . HAMILTON, R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary, Masonic
Temple, Boston.'
MEXICO-1927. Lodges, 14; m e m b e r s , 8 9 3 ; n e t loss, 18. P a c h u c a , April 14, 1927. C . C . J A M E S , M . - . W . - . G r a n d M a s t e r . Our G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e , M.". W.'. J O H N I. N E W E L L , was p r e s e n t .
F r o m t h e records we n o t e t h a t a Special C o m m u n i c a t i o n w a s held on M a r c h 12, 1927, for t h e purpose of dedicating t h e n e w M a s o n i c T e m p l e in t h e C i t y of Mexico. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r offered a few brief b u t interesting r e m a r k s , a n d we t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following: AVc are all proud to bo here on this auspicious occasion and to witness the dedication of our new Masonic Hall. Taking into account the general distressed condition prevailing in the country, the result we see before us in nothing short or marvellous. The members of the Fraternity residing in the City have contributed generously in the purchase of bonds and the brethren of Pachuca, Puebla and El Ore have followed suit. The success of this enterprise is largely due to the untiring efforts of P. G. M. STEPHEN MOTTA, P. G. M. M. A. LOEVY, W.-. Bro. J. E. CAMPBELL and W.-. Bro. E. B. TURNBULL. These four brethren
have l:)Ourne the brunt of the work and have cODtributed with their time, talent and experience and the result we see before us is a lasting monument to their endeavours. "We tender to these four brethren a very liearty vote of thanks. I regret that yf.-. Bro. TURNBULL is unable to be with us tliis evening. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r , a m o n g other things, s u b m i t t e d t h e following w i t h his a n n u a l a d d r e s s : Our associations from year to year have united us in ties of friendstiip which are not easily broken. May these j e s be the more firmly established as we travel the pathway of life! We look forward with no small degree of pleasure as wo anticipate each Annual Communication and the present occasion is no e.KcepCion. Here we meet brethren from the far corners of our Jurisdiction who are united with us in the promotion of Freemasonry and its tenets of brotherly love, relief and truth. One of the greatest disappointments has been my inability to visit all the Lodges in the .Jurisdiction. I had earnestly hoped to have carried out this programme but the depressed business conditions and the general nature of my work, compelled me to confine official visitations to certain Lodges only. Yet wherever I have gone, a hearty welcome has always been extended to me and friendships were made and renewed which have left lasting impressions not easily erased.
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CORRESPONDENCE—MEXICO.
February,
I have had a year full of labour for. and service to, the Fraternity we love. The fidelity of the ofBcers of the subordinate Lodges and the very generous support I have received from the Grand Lodge Officers, are all outward and visible signs of the Intense realizaoion of the Principles of Freemasonry which is being manifested in the whole .furisdiction. We note the Grand Secretary, R.\ W.". CHARLES I. ARNOLD, was absent from the jurisdiction, and W.\ Brother A. P . HUGHES was appointed to serve in his place. The Grand Master had the following to say under the head of "Membership": The recent rulings of t h e Grand Lodge in this particular compel all brethren to pay their dues promptly and, failing to do so without a justifiable causa, they are automatically dropped from the roster. The past, year has been a very strenuous one owing to the unsettled conditions of the country which is passing through a serious crisis and the outlook is still dark. We cannot, however, but appreciate the splendid fraternal spirit which exists both in the Grand Lodge and in the subordinate Lodges. Perhaps never in the history of Freemasonry in Mexico has the feeling been exemplified to such an extent a^ it is to-day. It certainly has never been surpassed. He lists under the head of "Recognition" the names of eight jurisdictions which extended fraternal relations to them during the past year. As evidence that our York Rite brethren are careful in establishing lodges in Mexico we feel justified in quoting the following: A letter was received from Bro. MANUEL G . CANTON of Yucatan, member of Joppa Lodge No. 11, Birkenhead, England, regarding the chartering of a Lodge in Merlda. I wrote t o Bro. CANTON asking for a lis^ of masons a t present re-siding in Merida with full details regarding their masonic standing. In his reply I noted that practically all were Mexican citizens and as there are two Grand Lodges in the Yucatan Peninsula, I informed Bro. CANTON that whilst we were always ready to assist in every way the progress of the fraternity we could not see our way clear t o enter this terri tory unless it be for the establishment of an English-speaking Lodge for the benefit of those who did not understand the Spanish language. No further reply has been received to date. Simply as a matter of enlightenment to our own readers concerning Mexican Masonry, we quote the following: We regret "that as yot we cannot see our way clear to extend recognition to Mexican Grand Lodges. With no antagonism whatsoever existing between us we feel that we cannot associate with them because their conception of Freemasonry is entirely different to ours. Should the Mexican Grand Lodges comply with the fundamental principles as known In England and the United States we would be the first to offer them the hand of friendship. AVe need as reqm'sites, belief in the One Living and True GoD, the presence of the Holy Bible on the altar at all Communications, a strict adherence to the Landmarks, no discussion of religion or poUtics in the Lodge and absence of treaties with so-called higher bodies. We find that most of the British and American Grand Lodges refuse recognition to the Grand Lodges of France, Italy, Spain and others on account of their inability to meet the above requirements. Our stand is not an arbitrary one. I t is simply the effort on our part to uphold undeflled Freemasonry and to associate with brethren who have adopted a similar interpretation as ourselves of the Principles of the Order.
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COBBESPONDENCE—MEXICO.
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T h e G r a n d M a s t e r , referring t o t h e subject of G e r m a n speaking lodges, h a d t h e following t o s a y : A need is gradually growing in Mexico City for a German Speaking Lodge. We have several members of German, Swiss and Austrian nationaUty, who, while fairly proficient in the English language, are sometimes through nervousness or inability to express themselves fluently in a language other than their own, barred from the higher ofBces of the Lodge. These men are excellent masons and it is unfair that the question of language alone should prevent them from wearing the purple of the fraternity. Tentative conversations have been held with several of these brethren but no definite result has yet been reached. I trust when the application is made for a charter that sympathetic attention will be given to their request.
He is not unmindful of the question of what is termed " Masonic Education" as we observe from the following: The question of Masonic Education in our Lodges is perhaps one of the most serious problems which Freemasonry will have to face in the future. The conferring of the degrees, wceli after week and month after month, is apt to become monotonous even when impressively done. A series of lectures on Masonic subjects explaining the symbolism of Freemasonry miglit be initiated with advantage in every Lodge. More use should be encouraged of the Masonic Library wliich every large Lodge in this Jurisdiction now possesses. Hand In hand with the imparting of Masonic knowledge goes the necessity of promoting regular attendance. Many are the suggestions which have been put forward in this respect. Superficial remedies may answer for a time but the lasting one is that the members attend their Lodge regularly because they feel it is a pleasure for them to do so. Taking part in the work is often an incentive to improve attendance. The most successful W. M. is he who can draw out and set to work the greatest number of the members of his Lodge. In every Lodge, however small it may be, there is talent to be found. It may be latent and even unsuspected. The human material is the most valuable possession of a Lodge. Let all be encouraged to take a part in our great and good work. A "something to d o " in the Lodge is an incentive to regular attendance. Each newly made mason might assist in the instruction of candidates. Freemasonry demands from each of Its votaries a life of service or selfsacrifice. The Initiate enters a family, each member of which pledges himself to assist each other. What a noble idea is embodied in these few words. The candidate is told to expect nothing materially for himself but receives the wages of joy and gladness when he perceives that a fellow man is happier through his own unsefish endeavours. The idea of self-sacrifice is impressed upon the candidate from the moment he enters the Lodge. Acknowledging a belief In the Supreme Architect of the Universe from Whom all good is derived, he begins a new life, a new existence. He sets up for himself certain ideals which he should attempt to carry out during the remainder of his life. I often wonder whether we all realize the solemn obligations taken at the altar and whether we think seriously at all times of the step we have taken. Just think for a moment what we solemnly promise to do. Are we doing it? If so, the Influence on the community at large should be keenly felt. Class war would be eliminated. The upheaval now existing In Bussia, China, and other countries can be successfully combated by Masonic principles contained in the single axiom of doing ones duty to GOD and to ones neighbor.
The writer does not wish to be misunderstood, but the term "Masonic Education" is wholly a misnomer in Masonic terms. Masonry teaches by symbols and so-called Masonic orators and those delivering Masonic addresses as a general rule miss this mark and
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COBBESPONDENCE—MEXICO.
February,
wander into an unknown and undeveloped country. If we are to use the term "Masonic Education" then let us confine ourselves to the symbols and the beautiful lessons taught from their application and not t r y to introduce religion and politics. State affairs should never enter the portals of any Masonic Lodge. Masons should be loyal to their country and flag as citizens, but Masonry is universal and we draw no imaginary lines of state or country. We had better get back to the Fundamentals and then we will offer something to our brethren which will interest them and induce greater attendance at our lodge Communications. From the subject of "Good Citizenship and Freemasonry" we take pleasure in quoting the following few words: Freemasonry as it is known to-day is probably the most whole-hearted and selfless offort the world has ever seen. A brotherhood of miUions of men has been brought into being. This l^ody, composed of many of the best men in the universe, cannot fail t o make itself felt in the community. Sometimes there are false impressions about fraternal organizations and the Secrecy which is practiced in the Lodges and is often misunderstood. Personally, I have never heard an obligation uttered which could not be proclaimed to the whole world. If the lessons taught in Masonry were heeded, the obligations taken assured; if the relationships urged were adopted, men would be infinitely better in their human relationships and better citizens would be the result. Fraternity is inherent in men. It is also manifest in the beasts of the field and the birds of the air. I t is our obligation to make the most of it for human betterment. I t more than enters our dail.v life and ministers to thousands of daily charities and fraternal reliefs. In the Lodge Rooms there is moulded what becomes public opinion and contributes to the moving forces of developing civilization. Freemasonry can aid the State in producing good citizens by inculcating into its members the three tenets of our profession—Brotherly Love, Belief and Truth, and exemplifying the four Cardinal Virtues of Fortitude, Temperance, Prudence and JusticL. Brethren who continually keep these attributes in mind during their daily lives and who are sincere in their devotion to the Deity cannot fail to become the best leaders in the community. Our Lodges afford a haven from t h e storm and stress of life, where our ideal of harmony and brotherly love is measurably attained. The granting of Relief should be practiced to the best of our ability. Masonic activity for some generations has been almost wholly confined to the making of Masons. The purpose animating the standard work is the inculcation of the virtues as exemplified in our "beautiful s>stem of morality veiled in allegory and illustrated by symbols." The end is to build well the temple not made with hands by the integration of sound moral character. To select from the quarries of raw materia.l, rough ashlars, worthy and well qualified candidates, to form and shape in the Lodges by means of the working tools of our Craft, perfect ashlars, Master Masons of good character and good will; that is. in part, the noble and glorious work of our beloved Fraternity. L a t e r on a report concerning M a s o n i c E d u c a t i o n was s u b m i t t e d b y B r o t h e r J . S T U M P , a n d we q u o t e t h e following words from t h e s a m e : Among the members of the fraternity there are plenty who can lecture on interesting topics, both profane and Masonic. I t should be every Master's delight to discover these latent talents and put them to work. Unfortunately many Masters consider as their sole obligation to the lodge and its members, the conferring of degrees. It is after the degrees have been conferred that the
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—MICHIGAN.
n
real Masonic AVork begins! The conferring of the degrees is merely our way of preparing the candidate for Masonic Work. To help propagate this viewpoint and bring it to general acceptance will be an important task to any future committee. B r o t h e r M . A. L O E V Y prepared t h e usual R e p o r t o n Correspondence which is excellent t h r o u g h o u t , a n d we note t h a t h e carefully reviews t h e t r a n s a c t i o n s of our G r a n d Lodge a s shown i n o u r 1926 Proceedings. Referring t o t h e writer as their r e p r e s e n t a t i v e , h e h a d t h e following t o s a y : We are pleased to see tliat the R.-. W.'. Grand .Secretary Brother ALBERT K. WILSON was present as the representative of our York Grand Lodge, as well as an Officer in Ms Grand Lodge. He lias served so many years he has been termed One of the Landmarks of Freemasonry in Kansas. E l i m i n t a i n g personal reference we feel t h a t his other r e m a r k s contained i n t h e following will b e of interest, n o t only t o our own b r e t h r e n b u t those i n other jurisdictions w h o r e a d t h i s p o r t i o n of t h e Kansas report: There is no more forcible reviewer than Brother WILSON. He knows Masonry. He knows Masons. He knows men. He is not afraid to express his opinions. His review of District of Columbia and the value of a Real Good Secretary, is strong but every Grand Master and Grand Lodge officer knows well that a Good Grand Secretary is the very foundation for the successful operation and management of a Grand Lodge. Their value is almost invariably realized too late. The salaries are too small for the great amount of detail work and correspondence in the Grand Secretary's office. That office is the Keystone of every Masonic Jurisdiccion. JAMES F . B E R R Y , M . ' . W . - . Grand Master, Pachuca.
A. P E R C I V A L H U G H E S , R . - . W . - . G r a n d Secretary, Mexico C i t y . N e x t A n n u a l , Mexico City, April 5, 1928.
MICHIGAN —1927. Lodges, 497; m e m b e r s , 149,128; n e t gain, 2,873. G r a n d R a p i d s , M a y 24, 1927.
C H A R L E S A. D O N A L D S O N , M . - . W . - .
Grand Master. T h e y were honored a t this C o m m u n i c a t i o n w i t h a n u m b e r of distinguished visitors, a n d i n t h e list we find t h e n a m e s of t h e G r a n d M a s t e r a n d G r a n d Secretary of t h e G r a n d Lodge of C a n a d a , M.-. W.'. B r o t h e r J O H N A . R O W L A N D , a n d R.-.W.'. B r o t h e r W I L L I A M M . L O G A N .
T h e y were i n t r o d u c e d t o t h e G r a n d M a s t e r b y t h a t w a r horse i n M a s o n r y i n Michigan, t h e G r a n d Secretary, R . \ W.". B r o t h e r L o u B . WiNSOR, a n d w e t a k e pleasure i n q u o t i n g a few of his w o r d s : Most Worshipful Grand Master: The happiest event of the past year, for your Right Worshipful Grand Secretary and your Right Worshipful Grand Chaplain, was acting as your proxy in a visitation to the Grand Lodge of
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COBBESPONDENCE—MlCHIGAN.
February.
Canada. We met with them at Port Arthur in the Province of Ontario. We had the time of our lives, and we are deeply grateful that you were not able to go but sent us (Laughter).
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I take great pleasure in presenting to you Most Worshipful Brother JOHN A. ROWLAND, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Canada, accompanied by his Grand Secretary, Eight Worshipful Brother WILLIAM M . LOGAN. The Grand Master was "deluged" with flowers, the first being a remembrance from the Grand Chapter of the Eastern Star. Brother WiNSOR spoke on behalf of the Eastern Star in presenting these posies, and we are pleased to quote his words: I beg your pardon for intruding upon the solemnity of Your August Majesty at the present moment, but my thoughts are filled with remembrances of my association with you during the past year. In accompanying you about the state to the many functions that we attended, my association with you was confined solely to the ride in the car while going from place to place. The moment we arrived at a place you were always surrounded by a galaxy of ladies, and it was impossible t o again get near your "sacred person" until we were proceeding on our way home. I had been taking some satisfaction in the thought that when we got here in these male precincts of Grand Lodge, where no female footstep is ever allowed to enter, that we might have your dear self all to ourselves. But very much to my disappointment there comes to me a t this moment a message from the ladies of MicUgan (Laughter). While they are barred from seeing you on the " T h r o n e " they have insisted on sending you a message (Laughter and applause). This card says that " W i t h these flowers goes the warm love and affection of all the members of the Eastern Star of the State of Michigan".(Applause). Following this, he was presented with a like remembrance on behalf of the Grand Lodge of Wisconsin. This token of brotherly love was presented by M.'. W.'. Brother D. H. MOONEY, Grand Master of Wisconsin. R.-. W.-. Brother WILLIAM H . GALLAGHER, their Grand Chaplain, and who is likewise chairman of the Committee on Correspondence, responded as the Representative of Kansas at this Communication. We take pleasure in quoting the following words from the preface to the address of the Grand Master: I t should be Impressed upon each representative, old or young, that he is here representing his lodge, that he is vested with a trust wliich he cannot evade. We are not here to legislate for ourselves, to foster our own selfish interests or to air our own particular views. We are representing the brotherhood ; a brotherhood of more than 150,000 Free and Accepted Masons. What we think, we think for them. What wo do. we do for them. I hope that in that spirit, every representative will feel free to express himself, free to lay before this communication any thought or suggestion from which we may derive knowledge, inspiration and constructive guidance. The officers who have served you during the past year, have given of their best to safeguard our institution. If we have made mistakes, they have been mistakes of judgment, not of intent. This has been to me one of the happiest years of my life. I have made many new friends, both in and out of our Jurisdiction, whose fellowship and good will I hope to cherish during all my remaining
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CORRESPONDENCE—MICHIGAN.
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days upon this earth. It has been a year full of experience, full of lights and shadows and one that shall always live in my memory as most fruitfiil and nspiring. •
Referring to the question of education, the Grand Master had the following to say on that subject: We are living, brethren, in the most enlightened age in all the history of mankind. People are seelfing Itnowledge as never before. The past is being opened up to us by the students of antiquity. Philosophy is giving away to facts based upon the truth. Knowledge is no longer the property of a select few—it is universal. Masonry is one of the oldest institutions of our civilization. I t came into being long before the days of our first Grand Master, K I N O SOLOMON, and it was only through his works tliat it was given to mankind as a rule and guide by which to labor. We should know more of its origin, its purposes and its symbolism. This Grand Lodge owes it to every Master Mason in our jurisdiction to furnish him the opportunity of Masonic education. There are hundreds of brethren in our lodges who are hungry for Masonic knowledge. Heretofore we have treated the subject passively. Now we must treat it as an active need, as one of the essentials necessary to the continued success of the Order. Man does not prize the things ho receives lightly. Many of our brethren do not prize Masonry because they know so little about it. We confer our degrees, decorate the faithful, conduct our funerals and call it Masonry. But back of this are centuries, thousands of year, of tried and tested principles. It is not Improbable that the first timid attempts on the part of primitive man to establish a cultural society originated around the principles of the builder's art. We have taken that art, we have converted that science as a means by which we communicate the principles of right living to those who become affiliated with our Order. The least we can offer them is the record that has been handed to us, the knowledge that has been accumulated over the years, as an added guide in their labors and as an inspiration for futvu'o achievement.
One of the numerous outside organizations predicating their membership on Masonry, had presumed to use our time honored emblems—the square and compass and letter " G " — i n promoting their interests. The Grand Master was therefore obliged to issue the following Edict: I therefore declare that the use of these emblems, as used by the Free and Accepted Masons of the. State of Michigan, by any other than a Masonic organization, acting under the Jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge and recognized by the Grand Lodge or Grand Lodge itself, is un-Masonic conduct, and any Master Mason using them in other* than Masonic organizations as above defined, will be guilty of un-Masonic conduct and will be subject to all the penalties for that offense. I further order that this edict be spread upon the minutes of each Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of Jlichigan receiving this communication, and same be read at the following two regular meetings after receipt of this communication.
He was likewise compelled to pay his respects to the publishers of some Masonic papers and bulletins, and we take pleasure in quoting his words on this subject: Some of our Lodge bulletins and Masonic papers have in the past carried political advertisements, and some of these advertisements convey the inference of Masonic membership or support; and in order to prevent any further evils
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• CORRESPONDENCE—MICHIGAN.
February.
of this kind, and to maintain the historic and traditional attitude of our institution toward political contests, I deem it necessary to take immediate action. I therefore order that no publication of any kind sponsored, authorized or supervised by a constituent Lodge or representative thereof in this .Jurisdiction, shall hereafter carry in its reading matter or advertisements, any notices of any candidacies for public offlco or discussion of controversial political subjects.
We quote the following which was one of the matters called to the attention of the Grand Master, and while no Edict was issued, yet he made it plain that such practice would not be longer tolerated: I have to report that some of our Lodges in tills Jurisdiction have deemed it necessary to use printed ballots in their last annual communication, which, in •my opinion, is un-Masonic and not in keeping with the best interests of Masonry. I therefore recommend that it become the law of this Grand Lodge that in all elections in the Grand Lodge and in the constituent Lodges no printed or written ballots be distributed, but that the members be given slips of paper upon which nothing has been written, and required to write thereon their choice. I therefore recommend this to the Grand Lodge for its action. H e is i n t e r e s t e d in t h e e d u c a t i o n of M a s t e r M a s o n s ' o r p h a n s , a n d from his w o r d s on t h a t subject we a r e pleased t o q u o t e t h e following: I further recommend that some concerted action be taken by this Jurisdiction with reference to the education of a Master Mason's orphans. It may interest you to know that there has been one will drawn in this State of half a million dollars, the income of which is to be used for the education of Master Masons' orphans, and unless this Grand Lodge does take some action along this line we cannot hope to be favored with bequests of this kind. T h e following applies n o t only t o t h e G r a n d J u r i s d i c t i o n of Michigan, b u t t o all others as well; Believing that every Masonic member in this Jurisdiction has a desire to co-operate in carrying out the ideals of Masonry in every particular, I wi sh to call your attention to what seems to be a growing practice, that of displaying the Masonic insignia or emblem upon the radiator of automobiles or elsewhere, other than as a personal adornment. Wherever I have witnessed this, it has always impressed me that we are commercializing and cheapening the great emblem of our beloved order. T therefore feel that this evil should be done away with, for it is unnecessary for a member of this great institution to show his affiliation in this manner. His action and conduct in his every day life will prove his worth as a Mason far bettor than it can be proven by any insignia or emblem that may be placed upon his automobile or elsewhere. I therefore recommend that the use of the Compass and Square and Letter " G " , the insignia of Free and Accepted Masons, used upon the radiator of an automobile or elsewhere other than as a personal adornment become a Masonic offense in this jurisdiction.
We are pleased to quote the conclusion to his excellent address: As I have repeatedly said in my public utterances as your Grand Master, I now reaffirm: Masonry must stand by those established institutions which have made for the Christian civilization which we enjoy; it must stand by our National traditions and fortify law and order. There is a growing disrespect for much that is soimd and right in our society. There is a lack of reverence among old and young and a tendency to shift responsibility. Ma-
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CORRESPONDENCE—MICHIGAN.
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sonry. more than any other organization on earth. Is founded on the principles of right as against wrong. We cannot talie our Masonic vows without a consciousness that if we live up to those vows we are making a contribution to our society. We should not take our Masonic vows before the altar without taking them into our daily lives. Our civilization is merely an expression of our thoughts, our ideals and our aims. No matter how high and noble these may be, they avail us nothing unless we strive to attain them. Knowledge means little unless we avail ourselves of it. Masonry is an education of the individual. It Is a training ground where we may become bettor men, bettor citizens. Let us look well to our order. It is one of the most priceless possessions of our society. Following t h e submission of t h e a n n u a l report of t h e G r a n d Secret a r y , he offered a few r e m a r k s of an historical n a t u r e , and one m a t t e r is of unusual interest, a n d we therefore q u o t e it: You will note that my report states that this is my forty-fifth consecutive attendance at the Annual Communications of this Grand Lodge, having for several years held the record of being the oldest living member of this Grand Lodge: My first attendance at Grand Lodge was in the City of Kalamazoo in the year 1SS3. I have never missed an Annual Communication from that day to tills (Applause). At that Annual Communication there were on the roll call 340 members. All but five of those have been summoned to The Grand Lodge Above. And, Brethren, I have the great joy today of having assembled four of the five who are living, and now have them with me, and I desire to present thom to you. (The Grand Lodge arose with great applause.) T h i s was followed b y brief r e m a r k s m a d e by t h e several b r e t h r e n t o w h o m he referred, all expressing their pleasure a t being present a n d once more enjoying t h e fellowship of B r o t h e r W I N S O K . R.-.W.-. B r o t h e r W I L L I A M H . G A L L A G H E R , G r a n d Chaplain, presented a very interesting O b i t u a r y R e p o r t , and we regret t h a t space will n o t permit of q u o t i n g m o r e t h a n t h e following few words: Why Masonry should have enemies is beyond comprehension. It is a pacific institution. All its purposes are in the direction of good, first to its devotees and through these devotees, to the community at large. Masonry is not designedly antipathetic to individuals, groups of individuals, associations or institutions. Whatever looks toward the betterment of the race is held in high favor. There are in ideal Masonry no political ambitions that compel intrigues; no ecclesiastical prejudices that begot irritations; no sycophantish regard for prodigious wealth that leads to the under valuation of a competence only, earned by diligent toil of hand or brain, aided by judicious thrift. It is greatly to its credit that Masonry recognizes the fact that it has enemies: and some of us brei^hren love it for the enemies it has made. I n referring t o t h e enemies of M a s o n r y he b r o u g h t t h e question h o m e and referred t o this class within our own r a n k s , having reference t o those who are over-zealous in swelling t h e membership; those who refuse t o do their full d u t y when a p p o i n t e d on a C o m m i t t e e of I n vestigation; those who refuse t o use t h e ballot in accordance w i t h their p r i v a t e knowledge and confirmed convictions. Indeed, his i-eport is interesting t h r o u g h o u t .
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CORRESPONDENCE—MINNESOTA.
February,
The' R e p o r t on C o r r e s p o n d e n c e w a s again prepared b y B r o t h e r W I L L I A M H . GALLAGHER, a n d we a r e u n d e r obligations for a splendid r e p o r t concerning our 1926 Proceedings. H e culls from t h e journal all t h e more i m p o r t a n t m a t t e r s which c a m e before t h e G r a n d Lodge, even t o t h e e x t e n t of m a k i n g reference t o t h e R e p o r t on Correspondence, a n d t h e writer thereof. W e a p p r e c i a t e his k i n d words. G E O R G E W . GRAVES, M . - . W . - . G r a n d Master, Detroit,
L o u B . WiNSOR, R.-.W.-. G r a n d Secretary, G r a n d R a p i d s . W I L L I A M H . G A L L A G H E R , C o r r e s p o n d e n t , Allegan.
N e x t A n n u a l , Detroit, M a y 22, 1928.
MINNESOTA —1927. Lodges, 306; members, 60,742; n e t gain, 1,156. S t . P a u l , J a n u a r y 19, 1927.
ALBERT F . PRAY, M.-.W.-. Grand
Master. W e regret t o note t h e absence of our G r a n d Representative at this Communication. Several y e a r s ago a lodge w a s established a t their S t a t e University, a n d we n o t e from t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s a d d r e s s t h e y now have a m e m bership of 6 2 1 . I n referring t o t h e s u b j e c t t h e G r a n d M a s t e r had t h e following t o s a y among other t h i n g s : A moment's thought will convince you that as time goes on, hundreds, yes, oven thousands, will graduate from this school of Masonry and be of real benefit to the small lodges throughout the State. Its held of effort, outside of ritual work, is large and very important. In assisting those who outer the University, be they Masons or their sons, its membership performs a real service. Its meetings afford an opportunity for students to meet members of the faculty and establish a bond of friendship, the value of which cannot be mcasiu-ed. Its committees encourage the discouraged, influence for the better the wayward, spur t h e laggard to greater efforts, furnish entertainment and a social hour that brings together many who might otherwise fail to reach their goal of graduation. It is hoped that this Lodge will in time be recognized as a Lodge whose jurisdiction for service will be State-wide, and the fraternity at large provide a suitable building housing the Lodge and its clubrooms, as has been done In several other Grand Jurisdictions. Like our own jurisdiction M i n n e s o t a is now passing t h r o u g h t h e experience of establishing a T r i a l Commission. So far as our experience goes i t h a s p r o v e n t o be a success from e v e r y point of view. An a p p r o p r i a t i o n of $500.00 was m a d e for t h e purpose of procuring an oil p o r t r a i t of their H i s t o r i a n , B r o t h e r G E O R G E R . M E T C A L F , which is t o b e h u n g on t h e walls of t h e G r a n d S e c r e t a r y ' s office. T h e felicitations of t h e G r a n d Lodge weie extended t o theii- living Senior P a s t G r a n d Master, M.-.W.-. G I D E O N S . I V E S , w h o reached h i s
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eighty-first milestone on the second day of this Annual Communication. A splendid Report on Correspondence was again presented by Brother E. A. MONTGOMERY, and to him we are under obligations for a review of our 1926 Proceedings. We take this opportunity of correcting Brother MONTGOMERY as to the years of service of the undersigned as he is now serving his thirty-fourth consecutive year as Grand Secretary. WILLIAM R . SMITH, M . - . W . ' . Grand Master, Benson. JOHN FISHEL, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, St. Paul. EDMUND A. MONTGOMERY, Correspondent, Minneapolis.
Next Annual, St. Paul, January 18, 1928.
MISSISSIPPI-1927. Lodges, 387; members, 36,402; net gain, 902. Hattiesburg, February 15, 1927. JOHN R. TALLY, M.-.W.-.Grand Master. Brother ROBERT W . HINTON, J R . , was present as the Representative of the Grand Lodge of Kansas. We quote the following from the Grand Master's address: The usual avocations of life have been laid aside for a season. And for a short period we have left our quiet firesides and the endearments of home, to unite our labors and take counsel together for the noble and glorious purpose of advancing the prosperity of the Institution in this Grand Jurisdiction. The Altar of Masonry around which we have so often met, again invites us to a renewal and confirmation of our pledges of Brotherly Love and Fidelity. As faith in GOD holds the preeminence among the landmarks of Masonry: and since no true Mason ever enters upon any important undertaking without first invoking the blessing of GOD. let it, therefore, be our first duty as an evidence of our faith, and b.v way of affixing our seal to the doctrine that GOD is true, to ofler'up unfco Him united thanksgiving and praise for past mercies and blessings; invoking His divine guidance in all our deliberations so that they may redound to His glory and be promotive of the best interest of the Craft.
Under the head of " T h e Objective Features of Masonry—Our Relative Duty to Each Other and the World, as a Moral Institution", he had the following to say: What have we done and what is our aim in life, are questions more easily askod than answered. Our numerical strength is of no mean order, for it associates among a common Brotherhood the brightest intellects which adorn every profession n the land. "Whilst Masonry does not claim to be a school of reform, yet It does teach that it was instituted to ameliorate the condition of mankind and to make men better. The principles of the Order are pure, its code of morals faultless, and the standard by which all are to be measured who enter the tiled limits of the Lodge is perfection itself.
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February,
Devotion to these principles, a life void of offense towards GOD and man, and a constant approximation to this moral standard are sacred duties wlilch are binding upon Alasons everywhere. . Our mission is: " T o do good to all men as we have opportunity, especially to them whichare of the household of faith." It is true, our private charities have been often distributed with a liberal hand to relieve the distressed. And the response has again and again gone up from our subordinate Lodges and bretliren of the Order, in the form of substantial help, to the widow and the orphan in the hour of need. These facts are commendable and shall not be without their reward. The good fruits of Masonry should not and cannot be confined within the tiled limits of tho Lodge. The lessons taught there should be illustrated in the walk and consecration of Masons when abroad in the world, so that others, seeing our good works, shall be brought to respect our profession and honor . our Institution. What the world demands of lis is deeds, not words. And these we must perform if we would maintain our position as a Moral Institution in the land. As an Institution, therefore, known and recognized among men, we have our work to do. This work must not be left to others; neither must our charities be placed in their hands, by them to be dispensed according to their judgment. The field of usefulness before us is inviting and is already ripe to the harvest—we have but to thrust in tho sickle and reap.. The laborers in the field Masonic are abundant, and tlie fault will bo ours if the harvest is not gathered In. Let us, then, as wise men and Masons, devise liberal things for the future. And let .the designs which shall be drawn upon the trestle-board at this Grand Communication be such whose working out will be for the good of mankind and the advancement of the interests of the Craft, both at home and abroad. U n d e r t h e head of " L o d g e C h a r t e r s M u s t Be D i s p l a y e d " , he h a d t h e following t o s a y : Some of our subordinate Lodges seem not yet to have grasped the idea that our Law requires that the Charter of a subordinate Lodge must be framed and displayed in some conspicuous place in the Lodge room. I have visited a few subordinate Lodges where I found they were still keeping their Charters in a small tin tuijo or box stuck away somewhere in the Lodge room. In all such instances I have specifically informed such Lodges that this Charter must be framed and hung in the Lodge Hall, making obedience to the Law practical and certain. I n K a n s a s we do not entirely follow t h i s practice in t h e m a t t e r of displaying t h e original c h a r t e r on a c c o u n t of t h e danger of loss b y fire. We, therefore, r e q u e s t t h e lodges t o file t h e i r original charters in t h e fire-proof G r a n d Lodge Building a n d receive a certified p h o t o g r a p h i c copy a n d if it is destroyed t h e question of furnishing a n o t h e r copy is a v e r y simple m a t t e r . T h e subject is w o r t h y of t h o u g h t on t h e p a r t of other G r a n d Jurisdictions, provided t h e G r a n d Lodge has a safe place for filing these i m p o r t a n t d o c u m e n t s . • U n d e r t h e subject of " D a n c e H a l l s " , he h a d t h e following t o s a y : While Masonry does not attempt to shape the opinion or convictions of any Brother with reference to whether he engages in dancing or not, but Masonry teaches its votaries to respect the convictions of even the ministry of its membership.' And while it is a known fact that many members of our Institution believe in dancing, many members do not approve of this form of
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entertainment; many of our members are ministers of the Gospel and belong to churches whose discipline forbids this form of amusement. Harmony being the chief strength and support of our Institution, why should we have this peace and harmony disturbed by allowing any part of Masonic Lodge property to be thus used, and run the risk of creating friction, dissension and possibly disruption of its peace and harmony by dedicating any portion of the Masonic building to any purpose that cannot receive the hearty sanction and approval of its entire memljorsliip. In order that the great Masonic love for peace and harmony among its brethren might be preserved and prevail in the subordinate Lodges, without exception, wliere it has been reported to me that a sul^ordinate Lodge was permitting its property used, either gratuitously or for rent, as a dance hall, I liave notified the officers in charge to immediately cease such use or send me their Charter. I am very thankful that it has not been necessary for me to take up a Charter. . , T h e following, u n d e r t h e h e a d of " J o i n t Use of Lodge H a l l s " , will no d o u b t interest our readers: I received a number of inquiries during the year from subordinate Lodges wanting to build Masonic Lodges, the Lodge room to be used jointly with other Fraternities. I have in every instance advised against so doing. I t has always been earnestly urged by Freemasonry not to establish halls jointly with other fraternities, as it is just another chance to disturb the peace and harmony of tlie Lodge by getting into a controversy over the different uses that tile Lodge Halls might be used for. T h e C o m m i t t e e on L a w presented a preface which we are pleased to quote: It is clearly obvious to tlie minds of your committee from many of the questions asked witli reference to jurisdiction, physical (lualiftcations, and other similar points, which in our judgment seek to invade the Landmarks of Free Alasonry. that some of the bretliren are more interested in finding a way around the strict construccion of the law, rather than to accept the plain, stern meaning of Masonic law, to-wit: that every liuman being is not eligible to the rights and benefits of Masonry no matter iiow anxious that human being may be to get into the Lodge. And if we are right in that conclusion wc feel that this policy of straining both the spirit and the letter of the law to get some particular individual into the lodge ought to be discouraged by all well informed brethren. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r reported in full t w e n t y - e i g h t questions a n d his replies t h e r e t o , all of which required t h e consideration of their C o m m i t t e e on Laws. These questions consumed fourteen pages of t h e Proceedings. T h e use of t h e word " P r o f a n e " or " N o n - M a s o n " was disposed of b y t h e Special' Committee in t h e following l a n g u a g e : The word Non-Mason more correctly expresses the idea, particularly since one of the meanings of Profane is "low or common standing," but Profane comes from the Latin word Profanus, pro bafore, and fanutn, temple; hence one of the meanings of Profane is " n o t admitted to the temple; uninitiated, as into rites or mysteries." In the Masonic writings as far back as wc are able to trace the word, "profane" has been used in the sense of "uninitiated."
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CORRESPONDENCE—MISSOURI.
February,
From the introduction to the Report on Correspondence, presented by Brother HENRY C . YAWN, we take the liberty of quoting the following: I bring to you in this, my eighth annual report, my gleanings from the vast and fruitful fields of Masonic thought and activity. While I feel that the sheafs which I have culled and lay at your feet scintillate with beautiful thoughts, clothed in verbiage rich and rare; while the perusal of its inspirational excerpts will lift one's vision to higher planes of Masonic research and endeavor; and while it contains much that is of historical value, acciuainting one with the happenings and worliings among the Craft everywhere, yet I feci that I have left much that is of great value in the quarries where 1 have labored. Liko the bee t h a t distills t h e sweets from l:loom and flower, must leave many behind; like the diver who brings the pearls from depths below, must leave many a gem of purest ray serene in the dark, unfathomed caves of ocean; or like the florist who culls the flowers from bosky dells, must leave some to waste their sweetness on desert air; so 1 have reluctantly turned, with hands full, ;from these mines of uplifting thought and high ideals, with sincere regrets that M could not bring you more or present them to you more tastefully arranged. But, my brethren, if you will but read this report, I am constrained to •believe you will not only have a clearer conception of what is going on In our r great institution but that upon you will burst the liglit of a better day. Our Proceedings for 1926 are covered in this report and we are under obligations for liberal space and for his fraternal reference to Jthe writer. JAMES HENRY JOHNSON, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, Clarksdale. EDWARD L . FAUCETTE, R.-. W . ' . Grand Secretary, Meridian. H E N R Y C . YAWN, P.-. G.-. M.-. , Correspondent, Lumberton. Next Annual, Jackson, February 14, 1928.
MISSOURI —1926 Lodges, 662; members, 113,212; net gain, 1,243. St. Louis, October 26, 1926. WILLIAM W . MARTIN, M .-. W.-. Grand Master. We fail to find the list of Grand Representatives present at this Communication. From the address of the Grand Master we are pleased to quote the following: This small net gain, however, is not alarming, we are growing fast enough. Many Masonic writers feel that the Fraternity is growing too rapidly. The right of an institution to live is not meastired by numbers, but by the good it does. Only those who really have a desire for knowledge and are seeldng an opportunity to be of real service to the generation in which they live are an asset to tlie Fraternity. The world is not interested in numbers, but in deeds. The size of an army does not measure its efBciency. GIDEON of old sent homo the fearful, and reduced his army to only those who swore that they would not sit down to eat bread or even lie down to drink water out of a river so long
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as an enemy remained in the land. Freemasons do not need to worry about tlie size of their army, but they should be gravely concerned about the opportunities of the passing years. I t is well to consider that all the bast work and all the best warfare of the world is done still as it was done in days of old by those men who are more intent on their work than on their wages; who think more about their armor than about their rations; who oat less that they may work more; and who lap up a mouthful and lose not a moment as they pass the river on their way to meet the enemy. Under "Necrology" the Grand Master refers to the death of their M.-.W.-. Brothers DORSEY ALBERT JAMISON and ALGERNON SIDNEY HOUSTON.
Referring to what is termed the Masonic Service Association of the United States, the Grand Master submitted the following recommendation: In view of all the facts, it is my judgment that it would be best for tho Grand Lodge of Missouri to seek other opportunities of service and remain out of the Masonic Service Association of the United States, and I so recommend. I n referring t o t h e subject of " C o u r t e s y D e g r e e s " t h e G r a n d M a s t e r offered t h e following information, which we r e p e a t here for t h e benefit of o u r o w n r e a d e r s : Several requests had to bo denied because courtesy Degrees, especially the first, were not conferred in that .Jurisdiction. The following Grand Jurisdictions will not confer the First Degree: California, Colorado, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Nevada, South Dakota and Wyoming. Pennsylvania does not confer any Degrees, nor do they ask any other .Jurisdiction to confer Degrees for them. Many of our Masonic leaders do not think that oiir Grand Jurisdiction should ask another Grand Jurisdiction to confer the First Degree on one of our candidates. There are many arguments in favor of their position. The Grand Lodge was called from labor for the purpose of dedicating the new Masonic Temple. We note from the report of this occasion that they were honored with a number of distinguished Masons and citizens, and the program indicates t h a t this occasion is one which will mark one of the most important epochs in the history of Masonry in Missouri. In connection with this part of the minutes we find a splendid picture of the new Temple, as well as the mass of persons who were present for this occasion. From the principal address we are pleased to quote the following: In our political order we must confess that good government is the hardest of all problems and has not yet been solved. The old Hebrew theocracy, the Greek city-state, the American democracy have made contributions, but no one has been perfect. Men have dreamed of an ideal society, but Utopias are not realities. Dictators ride new democracies in Europe, claiming that the guidance of the capable Is better than the ignorant blundering of the masses; and In our democracy, which we like to picture as liberty enlightening the world, the voice of the demagogue too often sways the mind of the populace. Masonry has never sought to rule, but it has resisted the usurpation of power by any .tyranny over the lives and consciences of men. It has fought the battles of human liberty; but it must enUst also in the flght for human happiness and social betterment around the world. There is an indisputable connection between
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February.
immortality and political chaos; there is an indisputable connection between a happy people and a successful government. Neither an unhappy nor an immoral i)eople can make a perfect state. T h e n e x t m o r n i n g t h e G r a n d M a s t e r w a s obhged t o m a k e t h e following a n n o u n c e m e n t , which we s u b m i t n o t only as a m a t t e r of int e r e s t i n g r e a d i n g t o o u r own b r e t h r e n , b u t because of t h e personal a c q u a i n t a n c e t h e writer h a d with M.'.W.-. .Brother W I L S O N : I have a very sad announcement to make to you this morning. One of our Past Grand Masters, who was with us yesterday, who took part in the colorful parade, who took part in the proceedings, who wrote the report on the Grand Master's address, who attended the Grand Master's banciuet last night and read a. most oxcellont paper on the passing away of Past Grand Master HOUSTON, passed to liis reward this morning at five o'clock. I refer to Most Worshipful Brother D. AI. WILSON. He went home from the banquet, to the Masonic Homo where he was .staying, about eleven o'clock, and complained of a pain in his shoulder. He went to bed, but was unable to sleep though he changed beds during the night; and about four o'clock he went into the parlor and turned on the lights. Brother THOMPSON got up and went to where he was, and lie complained of great pain. A doctor and a nurse were sent for immtidiately; M .'. W.'. IJro. SHORT was also phoned to come at once; but Bro. WILSON passed away quickly of acute indigestion. His family has been notified; his son will he here at si.\ o'clock. As yet no arrangements have been made but the funeral will be held probably Sunday afternoon, at Milan. I am more than proud about the kind things I said of Bro. WILSON in my address. He has been devoted through the years, one of the most levelheaded men in this Grand Lodge. He was a very modest man, very humble, but his word counted for much, and his judgment was to be prized on any question that came up. He was unselfish, and he devoted much of his time to the good of Masonry. He stood liigh in his home town, and he stood high all over the State of Missouri, and wherever lie was known. He was not a man to accumulate a great fortune; lie didn't try for a great fortune. He was a nian who tried t o do a great deal of good in the community in which he lived, and in the Grand Lodge of tho State of Mis.souri. We will all mourn his going; and it may well be that tho good he has done is a much vaster fortune than any material wealth he could have accumulated. His death will cast a gloom over the plans of this entire Grand r.-odge. I t is indeed with great sorrow that I have to make this announcement this morning.
It was the writer's pleasure to have first formed this acquaintance at the time Brother WILSON served as Grand Master of the Grand
Lodge of Mis.jOuri. Brother ARTHUR MATHER prepared the usual Report on Corres-
pondence, which includes a fraternal reference to our 1926 Proceedings. JOHN PICKARD, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, Columbia. FRANK R . JESSE, R / . W.-. Grand Secretary, St. Louis. ARTHUR MATHER, Correspondent, Ferguson.
Next Annual, Kansas City, October 25, 1927.
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—MONTANA.
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MONTANA —1926. Lodges, 133; m e m b e r s , 20,371; n e t gain, 396. B u t t e , A u g u s t 18,1926. E D W A R D W . SPOTTSWOOD, M . - . W . - . G r a n d Master. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r h a s nothing special t o offer in p r e s e n t i n g his report other t h a n expressing a fraternal welcome t o t h e b r e t h r e n . U n d e r t h e h e a d of " R e c e i p t or T r a v e l i n g C a r d " , h e h a d t h e following to s u b m i t : Another matter presented was that of the failure of the members of lodges to sign their receipt cards. This failure has resulted in loss to lodges' and relief boards in many Instances. It -was recommended that Grand Masters by direct appeal to members or through the secretaries of lodges urge them to sign their cards immediately upon receiving them. The above matters are of importance to tis because, in the first instance, our own .lurlsdiction may be invaded by a clandestine body and we may need the moral support of our sister Jurisdictions in order to combat it. In the second case, because our various !"eli»-f boards are being imposed upon by impostors and unscrupulous members. In individual cases, the loss may be small, but in the aggregate, they amount to a considerable sum. U n d e r t h e h e a d of "Visitations a n d I n s t a l l a t i o n s " he s t a t e s t h a t he visited more t h a n one-third of t h e lodges. -He feels t h a t e v e r y lodge in t h e s t a t e should be visited b y a G r a n d M a s t e r once e v e r y t h r e e years. A s u r v e y was m a d e of all lodge p r o p e r t y in t h e jurisdiction during t h e year a n d t h e G r a n d M a s t e r r e p o r t s t h a t t h e t o t a l e s t i m a t e d value of buildings owned b y lodges and t h e ground on which t h e y are located, was a little more t h a n one and one-half million dollars. T o t h i s t h e r e should be added, for buildings to be erected, almost a n o t h e r half million. T h e G r a n d Lodge has purchased t h e site on which t h e building was located in which t h e first lodge in M o n t a n a was e s t a b l i s h e d — t h a t of Virginia City. I t was in this lodge room t h a t t h e G r a n d Lodge was organized. Virginia C i t y Lodge N o . 43 was c h a r t e r e d on D e c e m b e r 20, 1864, b y t h e G r a n d Lodge of K a n s a s . In 1866 it was d r o p p e d from t h e rolls on a c c o u n t of t h e organization of t h e G r a n d Lodge of M o n t a n a . W e are pleased t o present t h e following from t h e subject of " M a sonic R e a d i n g " : I have advocated at all times reading of Masonic literature by the younger as well as the older members of the fraternity. I t is only by such reading that members can acquire a knowledge of what Masonry is and what it may mean to them. There is an abundant supply of Masonic publications to furnish a fund of information to interest and enlighten all members of the fraternity. It is by such reading that one's interest in lodge work and in lodge associations may be maintained. The officers of lodges should urge the younger members particularly to engage in such reading.
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CORRESPONDENCE—MONTANA.
February,
W e t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following concerning t h e i r M . \ W.'. B r o t h e r M O S E S M O R R I S , who was present a t t h i s C o m m u n i c a t i o n , which h a p p e n e d t o be his sixtieth M a s o n i c b i r t h d a y : Sixty years ago this evening there was a Masonic event of unusual Importance In old Last Chance Gulch. Upon that occasion the revered leader In Masonic history, CORNELIUS HEDGES, raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason that venerable figure now in our midst. MOSES MORRIS SO, to-day, we are having the pleasure of celebrating a Masonic birthday. MOSES MORRIS for sixty years has labored lovingly and eillclontly in the Masonic vineyard. Save ono. he is our oldest Past Grand Master. He is the noblest Roman of them all, and wo congratulate ourselves that today he is celebrating his sixtieth birthday as a Mason within the sacred precincts of this Grand Jurisdiction. T h e writer feels justified in q u o t i n g t h e r e m a r k s of B r o t h e r MoRRlS in full: My dearly beloved Brotlier CALLAWAY Informs you that tliis is the sixtieth anniversary of my Masonic career. Some of you brethren may feel that this must be a mistake, for I am yet a young man, but coming from such a source, I must plead guilty. From 1806 to 1926 seems a long stretch, and when you look forward sixty years appears a long way oft; but loolting back, it seems to me as of yesterday, and as a watch in the night. When a person Is engaged in a work that his heart is in, time passes too swiftly. While not wishing to appear egotistical, I must ask your pardon for making personal allusions. I can truthfully say that those si.xty years have been to me like going to a picnic. . It has been a labor of love, and I never tired. I enjoyed every hour, every day and every year. I t was my greatest joy and pleasure, and an incentive to live, and I thank Heaven for the blessings bestowed on me; for life, health and strengtii to carry on the work. Nothing—meals, sleep, business or anything else, ever kept me from a call of duty, which Masonic teachings impressed on me: and when I look back, I feel I did not do enough, when our Heavenly Father has granted me life to this day and the one hundred and two Masons who were my companions and brothers when the Grand Lodge was formed in 1866, to my great sorrow and grief, not one of those brethren is on earth today. Especially do I lament for that Sainted Soul who first brought me to Light In Masonry and has been a father to mo to his last moment—CORNELI US HEDGES.
I have enjoyed the greatest pleasure and satisfaction, and my gratitude has no bounds, for the kindness and consideration extended to me by each and every past and present Grand Master and brother In the whole Jurisdiction, and for the honors bestowed on me. If I merited your kindness and love, and If I did anything in those years that I labored in the vineyard of Masonry that meets your approbation, I feel that my labors have not been vain nor my strength spent for naught, and my joy is complete, the cup of happiness overflowing; and if the good Lord will grant me life and health, I will continue in the greatest and pleasantest work that can come to man. Bretliron. my heart is full of gratitude and I thank you most sincerely and affectionately, for all your kindness, and for this honor extended to me on my Sixtieth Anniversary.
We have little to offer on the subject of Grand Representatives other than to simply call attention to the absence of the Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of Kansas.
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—NEBRASKA.
91
T h e G r a n d Lodge a d o p t e d a law providing t h a t all b r e h t r e n petitioning for m e m b e r s h i p holding dimits from lodges o u t s i d e of M o n t a n a m u s t h a v e been a n a c t u a l resident of t h a t s t a t e for a t least six m o n t h s preceding t h e filing of their petition. T h e G r a n d Lodge formally w i t h d r e w as a m e m b e r of t h e so-called Masonic Service Association. P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r H . S. H E F N E R p r e p a r e d t h e R e p o r t on Correspondence, including a review of our 1926 Proceedings. W e t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following from his " F i n i s " : Again have wo ended our travels in foreign countries; no, not foreign, but sister lands where those with whom wo came in contact have tlie same ideals, lofty aspirations and hopes as do those among whom we live. Our heart has been saddened time and again when we found the names of many whom we came to know well as the years went by, now inscribed in letters of living gold on the pages of the histories of their lands, and the virtues of their lives enshrined in the memory of their loving comrades, who laid their physical bodies into the bosom of mother earth, but whose spiritual liodies are left as an inspiration to ttie living and coming generations. We dare not name tliem one by one as our lieart becomes surcliarged vvitli emotions of grief—^real and sincere—as we miss che loving chats and liindly banter we had with so many of them in tlie course of nearly two decades. The Almighty Father, whose children we all are, has them in His keeping and their petty trials and tribulations of the earth are ended; we almost envy their glorious existence. JAMES M . CHARTERIS, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Great Falls. LUTHER T . HAUBERG, R.-. W . ' . Grand Secretary, Helena. H. S. HEFNER, P . - . G . ' . M . - . , Correspondent, Helena.
Next Annual, Helena, August 17, 1927.
NEBRASKA -1927. Lodges, 2 9 1 ; m e m b e r s , 41,586; n e t gain, 649. O m a h a , J u n e 7, 1927. E D W I N D . C R I T E S , M.-.W.-. G r a n d M a s t e r . We a r e pleased t o q u o t e t h e following from t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s address: Year by year, the Fraternity extends itself, and becomes more solidly established. Year by year, its legitimate influence is greater. I t is the one means available for the realization, all over the world, of those aspects of internationalism which all agree are desirable, among which may be mentioned universal understanding, peace, good will and confidence on the part of all in the good intentions of their neighbors, which, when realized, will go far toward ameliorating the evils which beset so much of the world. Men everywhere, may meet on the level of Masonic principles, principles which unite all, and with which none may quarrel.
Owing to the death of their Grand Custodian, M.-.W.-. Brother ROBERT E . FRENCH; the Grand Master appointed M.-.W.-. LUTE M .
SAVAGE.
We also observe that the Grand Master in reporting this
92
CORRESPONDENCE—NEBRASKA.
Fehruary,
a p p o i n t m e n t suggests t h a t t h e s a l a r y heretofore paid w a s i n a d e q u a t e a n d r e c o m m e n d e d t h a t it be m a d e n o t less t h a n $2,400.00. This r e c o m m e n d a t i o n is in h a r m o n y wdth t h e universal custom under such c i r c u m s t a n c e s a n d emphasizes t h e fact t h a t it is n o t t h e one who bears t h e b u r d e n of t h e heat of t h e d a y w h o is c o m p e n s a t e d for his labor. T h e e l e v e n t h hour proposition is all r i g h t theoretically b u t when it comes t o t h e question of paying a faithful officer of a Masonic G r a n d B o d y it is a n o t h e r question. W e are wondering w h e t h e r this was m a d e r e t r o a c t i v e t o t h e extent of c o m p e n s a t i n g t h e e s t a t e of B r o t h e r F R E N C H sufficiently t o p a y for erecting a m o n u m e n t t o t h i s wonderful Mason? T h e G r a n d Master refers t o his i n a b i l i t y t o accept an invitation t o a t t e n d o u r G r a n d Lodge i n W i c h i t a , a n d t h e a p p o i n t m e n t of his Deputy,
R.-. W . \ B r o t h e r A L B E R T
R . DAVIS,
w h o was
accompanied
b y t h e i r G r a n d Secretary, M.'.W.-. B r o t h e r L E W I S E . S M I T H . T h e G r a n d L o d g e of K a n s a s w a s highly h o n o r e d in h a v i n g these distinguished b r e t h r e n with us a t t h a t t i m e a n d t h e writer as G r a n d Secretary also t a k e s t h i s o p p o r t u n i t y of expressing his pleasure a t having m e t these b r e t h r e n a n d enjoying a m o s t p l e a s a n t visit d u r i n g their s t a y . A m o n g t h e decisions we find one in which t h e G r a n d M a s t e r passed on t h e physical disabilities of p e t i t i o n e r s , such as t h e loss of a t h u m b , leg, a r m , b o t h a r m s , one leg, o n e foot, stiff k n e e a n d t h e like. H e ruled t h a t t h e s e petitioners were n o t eligible. W e are pleased t o note t h a t t h e h e a d a n d h e a r t were n o t u p for inspection. T h e Grand- Master m a d e t w e n t y - o n e r e c o m m e n d a t i o n s . F r o m t h e r e p o r t of t h e C o m m i t t e e on Doings of G r a n d Officers we a r e pleased t o quote t h e following: . For twenty-six years, your Committee on Doings of Grand Olflcers have promptly received for consideration at the Annual Cominiinication of this Grand Lodge, the annual report of ROBERT E . FRENCH, Grand Custodian . Then cometh the end. I t is sad to reflect, and difficult to appreciate that after passing safely through the dangers incident to childhood and youth, and having arrived a t man's estate in full possession of health and vigor, with mind enriched with knowledge and wisdom, well equipped to give others the benefit of his learning and richly stored mind, and all his rare attainments of mind achieved by years of study and experience, are lost to us. 'Nol Not lost. We are consoled by the thought that all is not lost; the example of his noble life remaining as an incentive for the living to emulate. Thus, we perpetuate the memory of our Distinguished Brother, who, having devoted many years of his useful and busy life to the upbuilding of our beloved Order, has passed out from this life into the Great Beyond, since last we met, leaving liis good deeds to shine as beacons to light the pathway of those whom he left behind. A v e r y intei-esting oration w a s delivered u n d e r t h e title of " T h e Spirit of A d v e n t u r e " ; however, i t is n o t w h a t we t e r m a Masonic a d d r e s s , a n d therefore, in order t o be consistent, we refrain from q u o t i n g a n y portion of i t . T h e R e p o r t on Correspondence w a s p r e p a r e d b y B r o t h e r F R A N K L . H A Y C O C K , a l t h o u g h u n d e r their C o n s t i t u t i o n t h e G r a n d S e c r e t a r y
1927-28.
CoBUESPONDENCB—NEVADA.
93
is C h a i r m a n of t h i s C o m m i t t e e . B r o t h e r H A Y C O C K h a s n o w p r e p a r e d t h r e e reports a n d so far as our own jurisdiction is concerned h e h a s n o t h i n g t o s a y . W e t a k e it t h a t our Proceedings did n o t reach his h a n d s in time t o be included w i t h his review. A L B E R T R . D A V I S , M . - . W . \ G r a n d Master, W a y n e . L E W I S E . SMITH, R . - . W . - . G r a n d Secretary and
Correspondent,
Omaha. N e x t A n n u a l , O m a h a , J u n e 5, 1928.
NEVADA —1927. Lodges, 2 3 ; m e m b e r s , 2,890; n e t gain, 169. Reno, J u n e 9, 1927.
W E N D E L L H . CHURCHYARD, M . - . W . - .
Grand
Master. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r h a d b u t little t o offer in presenting his a d d r e s s , b u t we t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following: Three hundred and sixty-five days have passed since we met; three hundred and sixty-five days of opportunity to study and observe Free Masonry at work in the great process of opening the eyes of mankind to the fact that " All men are created free and equal." U n d e r t h e h e a d of " I n M e m o r i a m " he lists t h e n a m e s of P a s t Grand Masters GEORGE GILLSON and FRANK B E L L , and their
late
G r a n d S e c r e t a r y V.-. W.-. B r o t h e r E D W A R D D . V A N D E R L I E T H . T h e G r a n d M a s t e r was active in t h e m a t t e r of visiting lodges as i t requires five pages t o record t h e m . He very a p t l y refers t o t h e P a s t G r a n d Masters a n d o t h e r s w h o h a v e passed on in t h e following l a n g u a g e : Reliable information points to the fact that a number of the Past Grand Masters and other Masons who helped make the History of Masonry in Nevada are buried in un-marked and unkept graves within our borders, and that it will be but a short time until identification of these resting places will be impossible. I t would appear that this condition, if it does exist, should be corrected. Those of us who are enjoying the privileges made possible by these great and good men, revere their memory and appreciate what they have done for us; we should not be derelict in our duty towards them and I am certain that this Grand Body will find means to properly identify and mark the last resting places of those who have been illustrious in Nevada's Masonic History. T h e a b o v e is coupled w i t h a recomrnendation t h a t a c o m m i t t e e b e a p p o i n t e d t o locate t h e graves of all P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r s a n d o t h e r M a s o n s w h o helped t o m a k e t h e early history in t h a t jurisdiction. H e also r e c o m m e n d s t h a t a c o m m i t t e e be a p p o i n t e d on h i s t o r y t o compile necessary M a s o n i c d a t a concerning t h e Craft i n t h a t s t a t e . I t was suggested t h a t all newly elected a n d installed G r a n d M a s t e r s furnish t h e G r a n d S e c r e t a r y w i t h t h e d a t e a n d place of their b i r t h , t h e i r business activities a n d M a s o n i c history so t h a t at t h e t i m e of their
94
CORRESPONDENCE—NEVADA.
February.
death the Grand Secretary will have on hand data from which to prepare the usual memorial. Quite different from our own jurisdiction as we publish' with each annual Proceedings a biographical sketch of the retiring Grand Master and when the time comes for the preparation of a memorial we can readily refer to the sketch for such information as may be necessary. A spendid oration was delivered by W.". Brother HASEMAN, and we take pleasure in quoting the following:
CHARLES
Modern or Speculative Masonry has evolved naturally from the ancient fraternity of Operative Masons. These were men will versed in the sciences, who saw to it that their initiates studied and mastered the sciences. They were men of thought and knowledge, the medium of progress in thought and knowledge in their age. Modern Masonry inherits much from this ancient Order. We have all of their ancient operative Instruments in the lodge room. To each is assigned a definite moral virtue, which the initiate is encouraged to learn and put into practice. Is it not equally important that we, as modern Masons, cherish and urge progress in that quality most valued by our ancient Bretliren—the power of thought? To become a Master Builder, the ancient initiate must demonstrate his knowledge as a builder. Merely to explain by rote to erect a structure was not sufficient. As he was undertaking the office of superintendent of building, he needs must know and understand the actual construction. The modern candidate, who knocks a t the door of Freemasonry, possesses certain inherent mental ability. H e is admitted and created a Master Builder in the moral virtues advocated by the Order. We, of course, are not justified in demanding that he beconie a practioner in the tenets of the Craft; but, in justice to the fraternity, we should insist and see to it that he improve his mind by a sound study of these tenets. For the man of keen mind, with a thorough knowledge and understanding of these valuable tenets—not one who recites thero in a parrot-like fashion alone—is the man most likely to realize the necessity of putting them into practice. That, my brethren, is the final test of greatness in a Mason. The development of the power of thought and the accumulation of knowledge are necessary and satisfying, but not sufficient. They must be directed into channels that help men to live. They must furnish a complete understanding of the great moral and spiritual duties to GOD and man, and develop into a wisdom that forces the observance of these duties.
* * * * * * Bearing these facts in mind, it becomes clearly Incumbent upon each and every Mason to be even more zealous of this, the greatest of moral forces—Freemasonry. Every member, should attend the lodge meetings more frequently, manifest keener interest in the welfare of the order, spread the teachings of the fraternity abroad, and, above all, he should improve his mind by a conscientioxis study of these great moral \irtues, that he may better appreciate the necessity of putting them into actual practice. Keep the mind active. Give it the opportunity it seeks to grow. It is my judgment that a well trained mind, one that is capable of soimd reasoning, one that recognizes and values truth, is the best assurance of a clear conception of a true philosophy of life, a rational belief in a GOD, and a reasonable interpretation of His various manifestations. Yea; My Brethren, olie thus endowed can, by precept and e.xample. truly "satisfy the world, that by becoming a Mason, he has become a better man."
We note the absence of pur Grand Representative at this Communication.
1927-28.
COBBESPONDENCE—NEW
BBUNSWICK.
.
95
Their G r a n d Secretary, R.'. W.-. F R A N K D . K I N G , prepared t h e usual Report on Correspondence which includes a review of our 1926 Proceedings. V. M . H E N D E R S O N , M . - . W . ' . G r a n d Master, R e n o . F R A N K D . K I N G , R.-. W . " . G r a n d Secretary, Reno. E . A. DuCKER, Correspondent. N e x t Annual, R e n o , J u n e 14, 1928.
NEW BRUNSWICK —1926. Lodges, 44; m e m b e r s , 5,989; net gain, 26. Saint J o h n , A u g u s t 26, 1926. G E O R G E D . E L L I S , M . - . W . - . G r a n d Master. G E S N E R A . T A Y L O R , our G r a n d Representative, was present. I n t h e preface t o t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s address he refers t o t h e d e a t h of their distinguished R.-.W.-. B r o t h e r THOMAS W A L K E R . We n o t e t h e G r a n d M a s t e r was a p p o i n t e d G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e of t h e U n i t e d G r a n d Lodge of E n g l a n d t o succeed B r o t h e r W A L K E R . T h e G r a n d Secretary's r e p o r t is v e r y complete, showing in detail t h e receipts of t h e year a n d likewise t h e changes in membership. W e n o t e one of t h e i r lodges asked permission t o m a k e a M a s o n of one who h a d an artificial foot. Of course t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ruled t h a t this disability precluded this person from being received into t h e Craft a n d t h e ruling was sustained b y their B o a r d . We are pleased to q u o t e t h e following few words from t h e r e p o r t on the Grand Master's address: That Lodges would do well not to accept applicants who are not reasonably sure of remaining in their jurisdiction, for some time at least, after being raised, is a new suggestion; but it calls for due attention. In admitting a candidate, the welfare of the Lodge is to be considered, rather than the welfare of the candidate who is not then a Mason. To admit members who will not be well grounded in the tenets of the Order cannot be to the benefit of the Craft. A t a Special C o m m u n i c a t i o n held on October 24, 1926, at F r e d ericton, we are pleased t o quote t h e following from t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s remarks: The first and only Lodge of Moderns in New Brunswick, known as New Brunswick Lodge, No. 541, on the registry of the Grand Lodge of England, was established in Fredericton in 1789. Four years later there were two Lodges of Antients working here, side by side, under warrants from the Grand Lodge of Nova Scotia, known respectively as Solomon's Lodge, No. 22, and Hiram York Lodge, No. 23. These and other Antient Lodges in the Province claimed to be working, as stated in their warrants, "according to the Old Constitutions granted by His Royal Highness PRINCE EDWIN at York, Anno Domini Nine Hundred Twenty and Six," just one thousand years ago. There is nothing in our present organization which we can defluitely trace to the charter said to have been granted by KING ATHELSTAN in 926, or to the good offices of PRINCE EDWIN, who was the King's half-brother; but
96
CORRESPONDENCE—NEW
JERSEY.
February,
the date unquestionably marks an important event in the history of Operative Masonry. The period wlilch has elapsed since that date we may roughly divide into two—-five hundred years of the growth of Operative Masonry, in the glorious days of the cathedral builders, and Ave hundred years of colonial expansion and the development and spread of Speculative Masonry, in the age now drawing to a close. It is a marvellous tale, full of tantalizing uncertainties, as everyone knows who has tried to read it; b u t thus looking back upon a thousand years of English Masonry, we may well thank GOD and take courage. J A M E S V R O O M , M.-. W . - . G r a n d M a s t e r , Saint Stephen. J . T W I N I N G H A R T T , R . - . W . - . G r a n d Secretary, Saint J o h n . N e x t A n n u a l , Saint John, A u g u s t - 2 5 , 1927.
NEW JERSEY —1927. Lodges, 2 2 6 ; members, 89,597; n e t gain, 3,367. T r e n t o n , April 20, -1927. W I L L I A M B . M A C K E Y , M . - . W . - . Grand Master. M.". W.'. B r o t h e r A R T H U R P O T T E R T O N , our G r a n d Representative, was present. Special greetings were e x t e n d e d b y t h e G r a n d M a s t e r t o M.-.W.'. Brother AUSTIN HALL M C G R E G O R
who h a s been in a t t e n d a n c e
at
e v e r y C o m m u n i c a t i o n of t h e G r a n d Lodge for forty-seven years, a n d t o R.-.W.-. B r o t h e r C H A R L E S B O W D E N , G r a n d Chaplain, who h a s been a m e m b e r of t h e Grand Lodge for fifty years, having missed b u t one Annual Communication during t h a t time. T h e G r a n d Master also' h a d t h e honor of presenting their G r a n d Secretary, B r o t h e r ISAAC C H E R R Y , w i t h a b a s k e t of roses in recognition of his ha-ving served t e n years in t h a t ofHce. U n d e r t h e h e a d of " N e c r o l o g y " t h e G r a n d M a s t e r lists t h e n a m e s of P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r s A L T O N H . S H E R M A N a n d W I L L I A M L . D A N I E L S ;
also t h e D e p u t y Grand S e c r e t a r y a n d C h a i r m a n of t h e Foreign Corresp o n d e n c e C o m m i t t e e , R.-.W.-. B r o t h e r R O B E R T A. S H I R R E F S . T h e G r a n d Master m a d e t h i r t y - t h r e e official visits during t h e year, t o s a y n o t h i n g of a number of visits in o t h e r G r a n d Jurisdictions. T o t h e notion of t h e writer t h e p r o p r i e t y of a G r a n d M a s t e r reporting i n his formal a d d r e s s visits t o outside organizations m i g h t be questioned.. U n d e r t h e head of " G a m e s of C h a n c e a n d Gambling De^/ices", he h a d t h e following to s a y : During the past year four violations of our law^ on this subject came to my attention. I n three instances, it was so-called "Square Clubs" or "Fellowship Clubs," and in the other instance a Chapter of the Order of Eastern Star. In all but one instance, they had proceeded with their plans and arranged for a bazaar or had printed books containing chance tickets on an automobile, all of which were being conducted in the name of Masonry, and in three instances were for the purpose of raising funds to build a Masonic Temple. The other requested permission t o chance off six Hamilton watches, which was in-
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—NEW
MEXICO.
97
tended to increase their treasury for the purpose of holding ladies' niglit and a picnic. Needless to say, permission was denied, and fortunately all were discovered in time to prevent their consummation. 1 am personally of the opinion that if as Masons we cannot afford to iiold ladies' n i g h t o r picnics, we should do without them rattier than disgrace tlie fair name of Masonry by resorting to a lottery and asking the public to pay for our own selfish, personal entertainment. Likewise, I believe if a community desires to erect a Masonic Temple, there should be sufficient interest on the part of our own members to finance it by contributing to its cost, or else be content to deny themselves the pleasure of a new building until such time as they can, and 1 have very little respect for any group of Masons who attempt to excuse themselves by declaring that "any wheels of chance that may be used or chance tickets sold will be under the name and supervision of the Order of Eastern .Star." Conducting a lottery is gambling, and is forbidden by the penal laws of our State, and, of course, is opposed to the laws of Masonry. I, therefore, recommend that charges of Unmasonic Conduct should be preferred against any Master Mason who conducts a lottery in the name of Masonry, or for any Masonic purpose, or who sells tickets or chances liaving any Masonic emblems printed or engraved thereon. T h e s e Proceedings are embellished w i t h pictures of some of their Masonic Temples, every one of which a p p e a l t o t h e writer as being in good t a s t e , dignified a n d in every respect reflecting t h e high s t a n d i n g of t h e F r a t e r n i t y t h e y represent. T h e R e p o r t on Correspondence w a s p r e p a r e d b y t h e i r c o m m i t t e e , consisting of t h r e e m e m b e r s , a n d we a r e u n d e r obligations for a review of o u r 1926 Proceedings. T h e reference t o K a n s a s w a s prepared b y B r o t h e r W I L L I A M S . H U N T , a n d in his conclusion h e pays t h e writer a high compliment in referring t o his m a n y duties as Grand. Secret a r y a n d G r a n d Recorder of all four M a s o n i c Bodies. H e failed, however, t o a d d t h a t h e n o t only fills t h e above offices, b u t likewise writes t h e R e p o r t on Correspondence in all of t h e m . HOWARD R . CRUSE, M . ' . W . - . Grand Master, Trenton.
ISAAC C H E R R Y , R . - . W . - . G r a n d Secretary, T r e n t o n . E R N E S T A. R E E D , P.'. G . . M . - . , C o r r e s p o n d e n t .
N e x t A n n u a l , T r e n t o n , April 18, 1928.
NEW MEXICO —1927. Lodges, 56; m e m b e r s , 6,578; n e t gain, 2 3 . L a s Cruces, F e b r u a r y 2 1 , 1 9 2 7 . H E R B E R T B . H O L T , M . ' . W . - . G r a n d Master. F r o m t h e preface t o t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s a d d r e s s we q u o t e t h e following: The present year also marks the Fifty-ninth Anniversary of Aztec Lodge No. 3, which has the honor of being your host upon this occasion, that Lodge having received its original charter from the Grand Lodge of Missouri on October 19th, 1867.
98
COBBESPONDENCE—NEW
MEXICO.
February,
The preceding calendar year also marked the Seventy-flfth Anniversary of Montezuma Lodge No. 1, of Santa Fe, and the Sixtieth Anniversary of Chapman Lodge No. 2, of Las Vegas. These three constituent Lodges organized this Grand Lodge. *
*
*
*
if
*
"When the Grand Lodge was organized, the total membership of the three constltutent Lodges which composed it, was only 143. At our half-century mile stone, our Grand Lodge is composed of flfty-slx constituent Chartered Lodges, and has one Lodge V. D.; and Its total membership on December 31st, 1926, was 6,.578; and during the intervening years, the true spirit and meaning of Masonry has been taught, developed and practiced, and the sphere of our activities has so broadened that our membership Is actuated by an eager desire to render real service to the Fraternity, and to humanity. Thus hath our growth and strength Increased, until today we occupy a conspicuous position among the Fraternity of our country,' because of our pronounced advocacy of relief work, and tlie organization of the National Masonic Tuberculosis Sanatoria Association, for the purpose of providing a legal, entity to receive and administer funds for the relief and hospitalization of our Brethren and the members of their families who are atnicted with tuberculosis, without regard to Jurisdictional lines. In this connection it Is interesting to note that we have twenty-one surviving Past Grand Masters, who might do well to consider the organization of a Past Grand Masters' Association, In accordance with precedent established by several other Grand Jurisdictions, notably that of our Mother Jurisdiction of Missouri. U n d e r t h e subject of " R u l i n g s , Decisions a n d O p i n i o n s " we find several quite interesting, a n d a m o n g t h e m we n o t e t h e following: A I^odge in Texas was regularly requested, as an act of courtesy, to confer the Fellow Craft and Master Mason Degrees upon a Brother who had been regularly elected to receive the Mysteries by a Lodge of this Grand .lurisdiction; but the Texas Lodge failed to require one lunar month to elapse between the time of the conferring of the Fellow Craft Degree and that of Master Mason, T h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s ruling on t h e above was as follows: Notwithstanding the fact that only about three days intervened between the dates of the conferring of the Fellow Craft and Master Mason Degrees, the Brother, upon whom such degrees were thus conferred, is a Master Mason and entitled to recognition as such within this Grand Jursdiction and elsewhere. T o t h e notion of t h e writer t h e whole question simply hinges on t h e usual p r a c t i c e of c o m i t y b e t w e e n G r a n d Lodges. Texas has n o r i g h t t o inflict t h e i r regulations on t h e G r a n d Jurisdiction of N e w Mexico, neither h a s N e w Mexico a n y r i g h t t o indicate t o T e x a s w h a t t h e y shall do or w h a t t h e y shall n o t do. T h e point a t issue is t h a t of extending a favor in a d v a n c i n g an elected candidate a n d of course it h a d t o be done u n d e r t h e laws of t h e jurisdiction in which t h e degrees were being conferred; otherwise t h a t particular lodge would be obliged t o violate t h e i r own laws if t h e y were t o a t t e m p t t o d o t h e work a c cording to t h e regulations of t h e jurisdiction in which t h e c a n d i d a t e h a d been elected; in other words, when asking a favor one should n o t d i c t a t e t h e t e r m s under which it is to be g r a n t e d .
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—NEW
MEXICO.
99
The following question and the Grand Master's ruling may be interesting to our readers: May public installation of oflBcers of a constituent Lodge'be held outside the Lodge hall and in a public school auditorium? H E L D : jSfo direct inhibition; but opinion expressed that such an installation should be conducted within the duly consecrated and dedicated Lodge hall, and that it would be establishing an unwise precedent to permit the ceremony to be elsewhere conducted. W e consider t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s ruling on t h e a b o v e was t h o r oughly in accord w i t h Masonic principles a n d n o d o u b t in keeping with t h e organic law of all jurisdictions. U n d e r t h e h e a d of " Official V i s i t a t i o n s " we n o t e t h e G r a n d M a s t e r included K a n s a s . T h i s is t h e first i n t i m a t i o n t h e writer h a d t h a t our distinguished b r o t h e r m a d e a visit t o our G r a n d Jurisdiction. T h e i r G r a n d Lecturer sustained serious injury a n d we notice t h e G r a n d Lodge was not unmindful of his services as i n d i c a t e d in t h e following r e c o m m e n d a t i o n , which was a d o p t e d : I, therefore, recommend that Brother KELLY be granted leave of absence for such length of time as may be necessary for the purpose mentioned, and that the expenses of his treatments and his traveling and living expenses necessarily incurred in connection therewith, be defrayed by this Grand Lodge; and that an appropriate resolution to that effect be prepared and reported by the Committee on Accounts, "Ways and Means. Speaking of their venerable a n d faithful G r a n d S e c r e t a r y h e h a d t h e following t o s a y : I cannot too strongly commend the efficiency of the service rendered by oiir Eight Worshipful Grand Secretary, ALPHEUS A. KEEN. Truly have I learned to appreciate more than ever the value of his knowledge of, and familiarity with, our procedure, and his uniformly prompt and courteoiis discharge of his duties which are many and varied, and tlie volume of which has been materially increased during the years of our growth and development, and especially during the past year of activity in behalf of our Sanatoria Association, of which he is the Secretary. Serious consideration should be given to this branch of his duties, and I think he should be admonished, if not required,' to engage the services of another competent assistant, a portion of whose salary could be paid from the treasury of the Association, under a mutual arrangement. "While returning from the Masonic meetings which were held at Chicago in November last. Brother KEEN contracted a-severe cold, which confined him to his home for many weeks after his return, and I really felt very apprehensive about his health, especially because notwithstanding his illness he insisted upon continuing to handle his work from his home. He should be required to shift a portion of his biu'den. I t is too heavy for one man to handle. His present assistant is exceptionally well qualified but in my opinion he should have another assistant In the person of a bookkeeper and well qualified office man.
He recommended the formation of a Past Grand Master's Association for the purpose of promoting the welfare of the Craft in their jurisdiction. It is e-vident their Grand Lodge does not propose that their lodges shall be imposed upon, or at least that seems to be the feeling as ex-
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pressed in a r e c o m m e n d a t i o n m a d e b y t h e G r a n d M a s t e r which r e a d s as follows: I recommend that whenever a constituent Lodge shall extend relief to, or shall pay or guarantee the payment of the funeral expenses of, a Brother from a Foreign Jurisdiction, and after proper effort shall find itself unable to secure reimbursement from the home Lodge or Grand Lodge of the Brother who was the recipient of such relief, that our Committee on Masonic Belief shall be empowered to reimburse such constituent Lodge from the Masonic Relief Fund, and in such event shall immediately request reimbursement by the Grand Lodge of the Grand Jurisdiction from whence came the Brother to whom, or in whose behalf, the relief was extended. F r o m t h e r e p o r t of t h e C o m m i t t e e on O b i t u a r y we are pleased t o q u o t e t h e following: We are deeply moved as we read the record of our own Grand .Turisdiction and see that the Iron Hands of Time have tolled the midnight hour eighty-six times since we last assembled, removing from our midst Brethren that were near and dear to us all, and some whom it seemed that we could not spare. How fully are we brought to realize that we must be ready and prepared to take up the work and assume the duties of those that are called to a place in that Celestial Lodge, t h a t our Masonic edifice here may go on to the completion and fulfillment of the ideals we alllove. B r o t h e r J O H N M I L N E p r e p a r e d the usual R e p o r t on Correspondence a n d we are grateful t o him for a fraternal review of our 1927 Proceedings. B r o t h e r M I L N E ' S r e p o r t n o t only of our own jurisdiction b u t o t h e r s as well is interesting t h r o u g h o u t and he h a s little t o offer in t h e w a y of personal c o m m e n t s . J O H N S . M A C T A V I S H , M . - . W . - . G r a n d Master, M a g d a l e n a . A L P H E U S A . K E E N , R . . W . ' . G r a n d Secretary, A l b u q u e r q u e . N e x t A n n u a l , M a g d a l e n a , F e b r u a r y 20, 1928.
NEW SOUTH WALES —1926. Lodges, 4 3 7 ; members, 62,020; n e t gain, 2,949. Special C o m m u n i c a t i o n held in Sydney, J u l y 8, 1925, for t h e p u r p o s e of m a k i n g t h e p r o c l a m a t i o n of t h e G r a n d M a s t e r a n d t h e i n v e s t i t u r e of t h e G r a n d Lodge officers. F r o m t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s address we are pleased t o q u o t e t h e following: My heart is full of gratitude to you all to-night for the great honour you have conferred on me in unanimously re-electing me as your Grand Master. You have shown me unmistakable evidence of your regard and esteem, which hcis given me confidence to believe that I have carried out my duties to the satisfaction of the members^f this Grand Lodge and the Craft generally. I enter upon this further term of office with a full sense of my responsibilities, and with the fervent hope t h a t with the help of the Great Architect of the Universe, I may be able to advance the welfare of our beloved Institution in this teritory.
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I think the time has arrived when we should have a Museum in connection with this Grand Lodge for the preservation of Masonic Relics, Jewels, Documents, etc. There must be many valuable relics in connection with t h e early history of Freemasonry in this State in possession of Brethren that would be of great educational value to our Institution, and I am confident, if a Museum were established, these would be gladly given into the possession of this Grand Lodge. I.have had personal assurance of that from some of our Brethren. There is always the risk too of valuable relics being lost, or getting into the wrong hands. There are very valuable Museums in the Grand Lodge of England and many other Grand Lodges, which are generally recognised as being of a great educational value and influence to our Institution. The one difflculty I see is the want of space in this Temple, but our beginning would, of course, be in a small way. However, I am referring the matter to the Board of General Purposes for consideration and report. I n t h e list of G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e s we a r e pleased t o n o t e t h a t B r o t h e r A. J. B U R B I D G B , representing Kansas, w a s present. A t t h e Q u a r t e r l y C o m m u n i c a t i o n held in S y d n e y on S e p t e m b e r 9, 1925, we t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following from t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s address: A red-letter day in the history of this Grand Lodge was the entertainment at dinner in this Hall on Thursday the 30th July, of 224 Brethren of all ranks from the American Fleet, then in Sydney Harbour. These included a t least 2.5 Brethren from each battleship in port. There were also present t h e whole of the Grand Lodge Officers and Senior Past Grand Lodge Ofllcers of this Grand Lodge, the Members of the Board of General Purposes; and the Members of the Board of Benevolence. Tlie Toast of "Our Guests" was proposed by myself, and supported by Most Wor. Bro. WILLIAM THOMPSON {Past Grand Master), Right Wor. Bro. E. HUNGERPOBD (President Board of General Purposes) and Very Wor. Bro. F . S. BOYCE (Grand Registrar). I t was responded to hy Oapt. E. THOMP.-JON (Fleet Surgeon, U. S. S. "California"), Comrnander LASH ( U . S. S. "Tennessee"), Chief Gunner GORDON ( U . S. S. "Tennessee"), Lieut. F. L. ALBERT ( U . S. S. "New- Mexico") and Commander Chaplain WiTHERSPOON (U. S. S. "Colorado"). My one regret on this memorable night was the fact that, owing to lack of accommodation, I was not able to extend t h e invitation to many more members of Grand Lodge whom I should have liked to have seen a t the festive board. There were altogether some 700 Brethren of various ranks with'the Fleet. My thanks are due to many of the Lodges in this hall, as well as several in the suburbs, for the lavish manner in which they entertained so many of our visitors. I desire also to thank the President and Board of Directors of t h e Masonic Club for the generous way in which they daily entertained a goodly number of our American Brethren during their fortnight's stay in this city. When leaving Sydney, I sent Capt. THOMPSON ( U . S. S . "California") the following radio:— "Fraternal greetings to yourself and all Masons of t h e Fleet from myself and Grand Lodge of New South Wales. We were happy to meet you and very sorry to part with you. " J O H N GOULSTON, Grand Master."
and received this reply:— "All Masons of the Fleet send you thanks and fraternal greetings. The period of our visit with New South Wales Masons gave aU of us Increased pride in the Craft. • " E D G A R THOMPSON, U. S. S.'California.' "
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Regarding advertisements and circulars the Grand Master had the following to say: My attention has been drawn to certain advertisements that have appeared In the public press in regard to our Institution, and also to certain business circulars that have been sent to the Secretaries of our Lodges, one of which went so far as to offer those oflBcials .50 per cent, commission on any business transacted within the Lodge. I desire to inform the Brethren concerned that these advertisements must cease, and should any further advertisements or circulars come under my notice, it will tje my painful duty to take drastic action in the matter. JOHN GOULSTON, M.-.W.-. Grand Master. (No address given.) DAVID CUNNINGHAM, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Sydney.
NEW YORK —1927. Lodges, 989; members, 329,295; net gain, 8,310. New York, May 3, 1927.
HAROLD J. RICHARDSON,
M.-. W.-.
tJrand Master. R.\ W.". Brother ALBERT C . BURDICK was present and acted as
<jrand Representative of Kansas. From the preface to the Grand Master's address we are pleased to quote the following: That temple is building and built upon, slowly raising its walls of manhood, buttressed on the solid foundations of the sovereignty of the Supreme Architect of the Universe as exemplified in the Holy Bible, crowned by the domes and spires of aspiration toward that wliich is noble, and graced l)y a kindly good will toward all men of every trilje. and kindred, and tongue. Our share of tliat great work in this empire .lurisdiction has reached majestic proportions. We have grown to be such a multitude and so increased in fruitful activities that the maintenance of our Masonic government, through its executive, administrative, and judicial departments demands our wisest statesmanship. No one man. no small group of men, can be adequate for such responsibilities; those responsibilities call for the collective msdomand unselfish co-operation of us all.
Such proposals for constructive changes as will be laid before you in this Annual Communication have been conceived in that spirit. I believe our greatest task to be the proper engineering of our forces, to the end that Freemasonry may discharge its maximum influence in the lives of each individual member and in the world. Engineering, like its sister word machinery, has a hard, metallic sound, and seems vacant of inspiration; yet it is as inspiring to think of as the hopes that make us men, if we keep in mind its purpose, and remember that the efficient management of our organization will make for increased tolerance, charity, sweetness, and good will in the lives of men. Freemasonry is a life to be lived, not a formality to be perfunctorily observed. It is a life to be lived, not a set of empty creeds to which lip service is given. I t is a life grounded in religion, organized in morality, mellowed by good-fellowship, humanized in charity, and dedicated to service. Responsive • to these high sanctions we turn to the duties before us.
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Dispensations were issued for t h e formation of t e n n e w lodges a n d in due t i m e t h e usual t r a n s c r i p t s a n d reports were sent t h e G r a n d Secretary. T h e G r a n d Lodge, as usual, paid its annual visit t o t h e H o m e a t Utica, on J u n e 2 0 t h . Services were held in t h e Daniel D . T o m p k i n s Memorial Chapel. P r o m t h e subject of " F o r e i g n A c t i v i t i e s " we find t h e following t o be of interest a n d w o r t h y of perusal: A Grand Lodge is not sufficient unto itself, nor can it isolate itself from the world-wide Fraternity of Masons. Its duties to the Craft at large are as vital to its health and power as are its obligations within its own jurisdictional boundaries. There is no wall about it, great and high, impervious to outside changes; it cannot possibly ignore the forces and influences that play through it from its sister Grand Lodges, either in America or abroad. In its foreign activities—they are "foreign" in a geograpliical sense only— our Grand Lodge seeks not to iiinder but to help. It never intrudes, for it lends a hand only where it is invited. It works not to gain prestige nor capture glory for itself, but solely to discharge its proper duties to the Craft. Its department of foreign work—under the direction of its Committee on Foreign Correspondence, and administered constantly by a staff employed by that Committee—is a clearing-house of inter-Jurisdictional affairs without which our own domestic interests would he seriously handicapped. The work of that department is not a fad but a fact; not a hobby but a necessity; and without it our Masonry at home would be shorn of much of its vitality. The Foreign Correspondence department carries on its work throughout the year by voluminous correspondence, but there are conditions arising now. and then that call for personal contact or investigation at first hand. In my judgment such conditions have now arisen in some four or Ave countries reciuiring that representatives of our Foreign Correspondence Committee shall visit them. I hope that the Committee will And it in its power to see that this is done as conditions require. Gradually our old dream of a universal brotherhood of Freemasons begins to take shape. After a long gestation period during which all manner of experiments have been made in all parts of the world we have reached a stage where we can clearly see at least two of the principles absolutely fundamental to universality: First, the right to confer the Three Degrees of Masonry in Lodges rests on the authority of Grand Bodies that have derived directly or indirectly from the Mother Grand Lodge organized in London, England, in 1717; and there never can be universality until that fact is everywhere recognized. Second, there can never be universality until the fundamental principles on which Freemasonry was originally organized are everywhere accepted by all Grand Bodies claiming to be Masonic. Among those principles the most important are belief in the Sovereign Grand Architect of the Universe, the open Bible on the altar, and a strict observance of the Landmarks against; participation in matters of political, racial, or religious controversy.
From the subject of "French Masonry" among other things he had the following to say: There are, I understand, four Grand Jurisdictions in France which lay claim to the title Masonic. The oldest of these, the Grand Orient of France, about sixty years ago expunged from its Constitution and Bitual all references to the Supreme Being and all allusions thereto and removed the Bible from its altars. The Grand Lodge of France permits, but does riot require, a belief
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in the Great Architect of the Universe and the use of the Bible, and it also practically has abandoned the fundamental principles of Freemasonry. There is, besides, a Co-Masonic Order, so called, with which the Grand Orient of France entertains official relations and permits at least the male members thereof to visit its Lodges—the Co-Masonics admit both women and men to their Order. There is need of no other argument than the facts, to show that the Grand Orient and the Grand Lodge of France have placed themselves putside the bounds of Freemasonry and that the Co-Masonic Order never was Masonic. There is still another body, known as the National Grand Lodge of France, which some consider the only regular Masonry in France. In order that we may have all the essential facts concerning French Masonry clearly before us, I shall ask the Committee on Foreign Correspondence to make a full investigation and then repori; their recommendations to Grand Lodge ne.it year. T h e question of plural m e m b e r s h i p was covered in t h e Grand M a s t e r ' s a d d r e s s and t h e m a t t e r goes over for final action until t h e n e x t A n n u a l C o m m u n i c a t i o n . T h e G r a n d M a s t e r favors t h e proposition and if it be adopted b y t h e G r a n d Lodge it should relieve t h e G r a n d S e c r e t a r y of much responsibility as it m a k e s t h e keeping of any list of m e m b e r s impossible a n d certainly eliminates wholly t h e possibility of k n o w i n g how m a n y m e m b e r s are on t h e rolls. We need only refer t o one of a very few G r a n d Jurisdictions w h o practice t h e plural m e m b e r s h i p proposition and t h a t is t h e M o t h e r G r a n d Lodge" of t h e w o r l d — t h e U n i t e d Grand Lodge of E n g l a n d , w h o has no conception of t h e n u m b e r of members borne on t h e rolls of their lodges. To t h e notion of t h e writer this proposition c o n t e m p l a t e s t h e beginning of t h e end a n d eventually it will m e a n a confusion of records, t h e restoration of which will be impossible even t h o u g h a t t e m p t s are m a d e to do so in later y e a r s . Referring t o t h e subject of " C l u b s " he h a d t h e following to say: The .situation on clubs remains practically unchanged and the warning issued by my predecessor was timely and good. The social features of Freemasonry are an essential part of the Masonic life and have long been recognized as such. Good Masons joined together in a club will not encroach'upon the principles of the Craft, since they know that the name Masonic belongs to the Craft and to it alone. Moreover, their devotion to Masonry for its own sake will move them to protect it at all times and prevent perversion, misunderstanding or misinterpretation of its laws, to which we are all sworn to give obedience. Those of our membership who would join other organizations called Masonic in order to gain the right to do things un-Masonic are blind to the great Light and deaf to the immutable principles so oft repeated. I admonish such that Grand Lodge imposes the conditions of Lodge membership, and has the inalienable right to enforce them. I wish I could lay down a formula for clubs or rather deflne those which are good and those which are bad. 'Tis trite but true, that those whose activities help the Fraternity itself, its principles and its work for mankind are good and should proceed with their work; those that hinder, obstruct and even play false to the Fraternity should be wiped out forever. Many of our leaders whose hearts are in Masonry, in and of itself, entertain the thought that club activities sap the strength and scatter the efforts of Grand Lodge and of the constituent Lodges by reason of the constant demands put upon the membership. We are pounded too hard and hit too often for things entirely outside the pale of the Craft's welfare, due in large measure, I believe,
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to the individual's desire for self gloriflcation. We are supposed to work together for a common cause. There is nothing in our system which suggests or permits that the Fraternity exists for the individual and not vice versa.
We are pleased to quote the following interesting words from his conclusion: The only problem to require our sagest experience, our ripest statesmanship, is the problem. How is Masonry to do its proper work in the world? There is, I am convinced, a large work for it in our nation. The signs of the time show the possibility of dangerous divisions being opened up across American life, resulting in class being set against class, in religious conflict, an increase of racial prejudice,"and an increasing cynicism as regards our Constitution, our form of national government, and the ideals bequeathed to us by the fathers. It is Masonry's work to support and to inspire the forces that make for unity, and that bind men closer to men, and that bridge over the differences that lead to hatred and strife. It is good for us, when thinking of this theme, to recall the wise and eloquent words of M.'.W.-. ARTHUR S. TOMPKINS. His words were true in 1923; they are true today; 1 recommend them to your careful consideration for the future: " T h e Cornerstone of Freemasonry is the doctrine of the Fatherhood of GOD and'the brotherhood of man, and we are taught in the Great Light, that of one blood made He all the nations of the earth, wherefore all men are Brethren, members of one family and children of one common Father. In the ceremony of dedication, we are taught that Freemasonry is neither bounded by geographical lines, nor.circumscribed by race, creed or time. Toleration is one of the cardinal principles of our Fraternity, and that relates directly to religion and concedes the right of every man to worship GOD freely and according to the dictates of his conscience, and in his own way, and according to the forms and ceremonies of his own church. "This is not only sound Masonic doctrine, but it is pure American doctrine, because freedom in matters of religion is guaranteed by our Federal Constitution; and all good Americans and Masons will deprecate any movement or organization that is calculated to promote and cultivate the spirit of religious and racial hatred and bitterness, and class antagonism. "Masonry should preach and practice the gospel of love and toleration and good will; no Mason should associate himself with any organization whose principles, methods or activities have the effect of fanning, intensifying and keeping alive the tires of religious bigotry, or radical hatred, or class antagonisms." To uphold, and recommend and apply those principles is Masonry's work in the world. How shall Masonry do that work? Shall It multiply wheels- within wheels, seeking by an over-complication of organization to cope with increasing demands? By resorting to novel schemes? By risking itself in new experiments? By turning away from the fundamentals laid down centuries ago in order to embrace strange doctrines? No. Masonry can best do its work by most being itself; by a firmer determination to carry out the trestle-board already drawn; by embodying and exempUfying its ageless ideals of tolerance, equality, charity, and brotherhood, to accomplish which its Lodges are organized, its Bitual is designed, its laws are ordered, and its principles are dedicated.
To set at rest the question of the standard work of that jurisdiction the following resolutions were adopted, through the recommendation of the report of the .Custodians of the Work: 1. Resolved, That all the Lodges in the State of New York shall adhere to the Standard Work and that no characters shall be added or substituted unless such additions or substitutions be authorized by Grand Lodge.
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2. Resolved, That there shall be no dramatization of any portion of the First or Second Degree. 3. Resolved, That the Grand Lecturer hold annual meetings with his Assistant Grand Lecturers for the purpose of giving them proper instructions and that the transportation expenses for these meetings be paid by Grand Lodge. Through the report of the Committee on Correspondence, of which M.'. W.-. Brother S. NELSON SAWYER is Chairman, a charter was granted for the formation of a lodge' to be known as Ibrahim El Khalil at Damascus, Syria. The Report on Foreign Correspondence was prepared by M.'. W.'. S. NELSON SAWYER, and from his " F o r e w o r d " we are pleased to quote the following: One practical subject which stands out before all others, as of greatest present concern to many American Grand Lodges, is the abnormally large loss caused by dimissions and by suspensions for non-payment of dues. Both classes of losses of members, at bottom, are traceable to two causes: One is carelessness in the admission of candidates who lack the qualities essential to a proper appreciation of Masonry; t h e other is inadequate attention, on the part of many Lodges, to keeping their, membership interested in Masonry by a convincing exemplification, in spirit a n d in fact as well as in form, of the teacliings and worthwliileness of the Brotherhood. The report of the Grand Historian for this year, which we have had an opportunity to see, may well be read in connection with the reviews of Masonry in Continental Europe. Open-minded reflection in connection with the reading of the report herewith submitted cannot but strengthen our faith in the universality of Masonry, that its principles are adapted to every land and clime, and that never and nowhere does it have to yield up one iota of its central thought to have and to hold GoD-fearing men of every race and to keep them united in a great brotherhood seeking to exemplify in spirit and conduct the will of Him who is Our Father. The thoughtful study of the report is commended to all Brethren who take their Masonry seriously. Our 1926 Proceedings are included in this splendid report. The writer is under many obligations to Judge SAWYER for information concerning the condition of Masonry in foreign lands. HAROLD J. RICHARDSON, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Lowville. ROBERT JUDSON KENWORTHY, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Masonic Hall, New York City. S. NELSON SAWYER, P.-.G.-. M . - . , Correspondent, Palmyra.
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NEW ZEALAND —1926. Lodges, 270; members, 24,823; net gain, 936. Wellington, November 2, 1926.
CHARLES FERGUSSON, M.-. W . ' .
Grand Master. At this Communication M.-.W.-. Brother General Sir CHARLES FERGUSSON was unanimously chosen Grand Master.
From the following it is evident that the Grand Lodge of New Zealand does not feel justified in printing a Report on Correspondence: The Board has given very careful consideration to this question, and has come to the conclusion that the additional expenditure .which would be incurred would not be warranted at the present time. When the discontinuance of the' Summary of Foreign Correspondence was decided upon in 1910, the Board reported that the saving would amount to about £250, and a t the present juncture, when the Lodges are being earnestly appealed to to raise additional money on behalf of our Annuity Fund, it does not appear an appropriate time to incur additional expenditure upon what cannot be regarded as of great utility. The Board therefore recommends that no action be taken at present. T h e writer feels t h a t t h e m o s t i m p o r t a n t p a r t of t h e Proceedings of a n y G r a n d Lodge is t h e review of t h e t r a n s a c t i o n s of other G r a n d Lodges, a s t h i s j s t h e only channel t h r o u g h which information c a n b e conimunicated t o t h e m e m b e r s . F r o m t h i s r e p o r t our b r e t h r e n g a t h e r some idea as t o w h a t is being d o n e i n o t h e r G r a n d Lodges a n d a b r o a d . W e a r e pleased t o quote t h e following from t h e address of t h e Grand Master: But an even more serious aspect is given to this matter by the fact t h a t from remarks frequently made to me during my visits to Lodges, it appears that considerable difflculty is found in keeping up the interest and activity of some of our younger Brethren, and this, when viewed in conjunction with what . I have just said, gives cause for serious thought. Many young Masons, I am told, drop away, finding, as they say, monotony, and even boredom. You may, perhaps, tliink that I overstate the case: yet I am assured that many earnest and promising young Masons find themselves disappointed in their aspirations and become slack in their attendance. How far, Bretliren, is this true? You, who'are in closer touch with the mass of Brethren than I can claim to be, know best. If, however, it is the fact, what is the cause, and what the remedy? I have no hesitation In saying that the fault must lie in our system. W e must have somehow failed to impress on our Brethren the fundamental object of Freemasonry, which I take to be the moulding of characters, wliich will, by the force of their example and their influence, spread a light in the world and draw mankind closer together. We may have become too stereotyped in our Lodge working, have devoted too much time t o ceremonial, have paid too much attention to the outside of the cup and plattfer, and forgotten that it is to the heart that we must make our appeal. It, may be that in our lectures, papers, and addresses we have become too abstruse and idealistic, and have neglected to point out the practical application of our ideals. We have, perhaps, not spent enough effort in teaching our Brethren that while it is to the Lodge that we come for inspiration, yet the real interest and use of our Craft
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lies outside the Lodge, in our everyday life, in the happiness that it brings us, and in the happiness that we can impart to others; in the personal influence which we are enabled to wield over our fellow men. We who are older men, we on whom is laid the responsibility of guiding and teaching our younger Brethren, must be careful lest in becoming absorbed ourselves in the beauty of our ritual, in the fascination of the working of degrees and of research work, in the interest which our position in the Craft gives us, we forget the yearning of younger minds to l)e something more than spectators and listeners. We must ever remember to lead them on to the underlying meaning of wiiat they see and hear, and to show them that all is designed to teach how all day and every day in their workaday lives we can be active Freemasons by ennobling ourselves and helping and elevating others. CHARLES FERGUSSON, M . - . W . ' . Grand Master,
G E O R G E BARCLAY, R . - . W . - . G r a n d Secretary, Next Annual, Christchurch.
Wellington
Wellington.
( N o d a t e given.)
NORTH CAROLINA —1927. Lodges, 4 4 2 ; m e m b e r s , 41,643; n e t gain, 309. Raleigh, J a n u a r y 18, 1927. R.-. W.-. J O H N H . A N D E R S O N , D e p u t y a n d Acting G r a n d M a s t e r . W e again note here t h e absence of our G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e at t h i s C o m m u n i c a t i o n a n d therefore r e p e a t our c o m m e n t of one y e a r a g o — t h a t so far as t h e G r a n d . R e p r e s e n t a t i v e of K a n s a s near t h e G r a n d Lodge of N o r t h Carolina is concerned i t is a huge joke. T h e u s u a l address w a s s u b m i t t e d b y t h e Acting G r a n d M a s t e r . I n t h e preface he refers t o t h e d e a t h of t h e i r beloved G r a n d Master, M.-. W.-. B r o t h e r J O H N E . C A M E R O N . . I n referring t o this sad incident he h a s t h e following t o s a y : Upon the death of our beloved Grand Master, I assumed the duties of the office with a realization of my shortcomings, but a determination to give to Masonry such devotion of mind and purpose as lay witliin me. If my actions meet with your approval, I shall rest content, or with your disapproval, I can only beg you will consider my shortcomings the action of the mind and not of the heart. I have endeavored to attend as many district meetings and public . gatherings as possible, and lay before the brethren and the people in general the duties and responsibilities of Masonry. In my travels about the State I have met with uniform courtesy and enthusiasm, and have longed for the wisdom of a SOLOMON and the oratory of a DEMOSTHENES that I might impress upon the brethren the liigh duty and responsibility that devolves upon any man who is honored by acceptance into this great fraternity of ours. F r o m t h e subject of " F r a t e r n a l D e a d " we are pleased t o q u o t e t h e following: For the second time since the formation of The Grand Lodge of North Carolina in 1787, we were called upon to mourn the loss of our Grand Master. I t was with heavy hearts we gathered at Kinston and "placed beneath the silent
1927-28.
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109
clods of the valley" all that remained of our beloved Grand Master JOHN EBASTUS CAMERON, who died March 28, 1926.
"His life was gentle and the elements So mix't in him that nature might stand up And say to all the'world 'this was a man.' -' U n d e r t h e head of " S t a t e of t h e Craft", t h e Acting Grand M a s t e r presented t h e following: " Oh wad some power the giftie gie us To see ourselves as other see us It wad frae maney a blunder free us and foolish notion." Brethren, let's quit fooling ourselves and look facts in the face. What is the State of the Craft? We are in the same state of stagnation we have been for years. Here and there we find a bright spot—an Oasis in the desert—but generally throughout the State, Masonry is asleep, and in many places, dead—waiting to be buried. Looking back over the addresses of our Grand Masters in the past, I find in each a hopeful tone—an ever looking forward to a time when things will be better. What is the remedy? Oh, for a MOSES to lead us out of the wilderness of indifference and inaction. But Brethren, we will remain in that wilderness until you and I, and all the brethren, learn once more the lessons of Masonry, and reconsecrate ourselves to the service. Brethren, we are needed to assist in the noble and glorious work of rebuilding the house of the Lord. For the true house of Masonry is the house of the Lord, devoted to the service of humanity, spreading the gospel of brotherly love and affection, assisting the helpless widow and orphan, feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, binding up the wounds of the afflicted, sootliing the troubled heart, and guiding the tottering steps of our less fortunate brothers over the rough and rugged path of life. What say you, brethren? Will you go back home and go to work for Masonry, or "vvill you lapse once more into that state of indifference and inaction, and when you get home remark to each other, "Didn't we have a nice time at Grand Lodge?" The spirit of Masonry should be the controlling factor in all the affairs of life. I t is not a question as to whether it can be made so but a question as to whether you and I will make it so. GOD grant that we may go back home filled with that determination, stimulated with the desire and energy to keep everlastingly at it until we arouse all the Brethren of our lodge to a sense of our responsibilities.
The Grand Orator presents an interesting subject under the title of " T h e Corner-Stone," and from it we are pleased to quote the following: Love is the great need in this world today. When there is the right kind of love in the family, there is no question about authority. Children are afraid to do certain things, not because of any fear of punishment, but because of their love for their parents. When love gets into the school, the spirit of the Czar will disappear and student and teacher will work together in perfect harmony for the common good. When the spirit of love gets into the" people, the religion of JEHOVAH will cover the earth as the waters cover the sea. This spirit will give
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February,
to the American people the real spirit of democracy, and man will learn to trust his fellowman. You and I will refrain from doing this or that because we love to be law abiding, and not for fear we will be punished by the law. May I come back to my first statements. " The human family is replenished from the bottom," and "civilization travels upon the feet of the children." The world of tomorrow depends upon what the mature people of today do for the children. Happy is that people when " A little child shall lead them." But remember the words of the Master when He said. "Whosoever shall offend one of these little ones that believe in me, it is better for him that a millstone be hanged about his neck, and he were cast into the sea."
The Report on Correspondence, which is one hundred per cent throughout, was again prepared by Brother J. EDWARD ALLEN.
We
are pleased to quote the first paragraph of the preface to this splendid review: That which follows in this volume, is prepared for the Masons of North Carolina. I t is presented to them with the hope that therein may be contained something worth the time of such as may read it. Since each individual reader will be equipped with tastes, interests, needs and opportunities different from thoseof each of the other readers, it follows that there is herein contained material of many kinds, each specific portion thereof being intended to make an appeal different from that of other specific portions. If, therefore, the reader may find herein some material whose value he may doubt, let it be remembered that possibly the next reader will have a different estimate. "QUOT HOMINES, TOT SBNTENTIAB." There are 41.000 Masons in North Carolina, all different. Thank GOD for that. Referring t o q u o t a t i o n s from o t h e r Proceedings he h a d t h e following t o s a y , which n o d o u b t will.appeal t o our own b r e t h r e n : No apology is offered either for the extracts from other books, which we have given verbatim and to some length to our readers, or for those expressions of our own personal opinion which may be found in some abundance in the pages before the reader. A wise borrower hath more wisdom than a poor composer; and whosoever hath not made tliis discovery is not wise. In expressions of our own personal opinion concerning matters under discussion, we yield cheerfully •to frequent expressions of the wishes of our membership. Let it be understood that The Grand Lodge of North Carolina, in inviting us to give such expressions of our own views, adopts none of these as its own, whereof we are glad. We expect no reader to change his manner of thinking that he may agree with us; but we expect him to say t o himself. "Possibly this is worth thinking about: I shall compared it with my preformed views and form my own judgments."
Kansas was not overlooked in his report as we notice a liberal reference to our 1926 Proceedings. JOHN H . ANDERSON, M . ' . W . ' . Grand Master, Fayetteville. WILLIAM W . WILLSON, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, Raleigh. J. EDWARD ALLEN, Correspondent, Warrenton.
Next Annual, Raleigh, January 17, 1928.
1927-28.
CoBBESPONDBNCE—NORTH DAKOTA.
Ill
NORTH DAKOTA-1927. Lodges, 126; members, 15,407; n e t gain, 143. M i n o t , J u n e 2 1 , 1927. F R A N K C . F A L K B N S T B I N , M . - . W . - . G r a n d Master. B r o t h e r H A N S A. MoE, our G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e , w a s present. T h e G r a n d Lodge convened u n d e r some difficulty. I n view of t h e fact t h a t t h e C o m m u n i c a t i o n was being held in t h e a u d i t o r i u m of t h e High School i t required considerable t i m e t o get t h e representatives s e a t e d according t o their respective districts a n d t h i s inconvenience was a u g m e n t e d b y considerable delay on a c c o u n t of some of t h e repres e n t a t i v e s being detained, due t o a d o w n p o u r of r a i n j u s t a t t h a t t i m e . T h e usual greetings were e x t e n d e d t o t h e G r a n d H i g h Priest, W.". B r o t h e r F O R R E S T F . V A U G H A N . P r o p e r respect w a s shown a n u m b e r of old timers as indicated b y t h e following t a k e n from B r o t h e r STOCKWELL'S minutes:
This year the Grand Lodge welcomed to its sessions nine brethren who had been Master Masons fifty years or more. Past Grand Master GEORGE H . KEYES, 61 years a Mason, HENRY CADE, 63 years, CLARENCE V. FERGUSON, 52
years, CHARLES E . BOYDEN, 54 years, FREDERICK C-. "WALTHER, 60 years, EGBERT D . SKINNER, 56 years, JOHN
"W. CARROLL, 54 years, PETER
BERGE, 54 years, and ALMON W . PARMENTER, 56 years.
A.
Brother PARMENTER
was not present at this time but was welcomed later. I t was an inspiring sight to have these veterans with us and nothing Is finer than for the Grand Lodge to pay them homage. The youngest in the group was Bro. FERGUSON, 73 years of age, and the oldest was Brother CADE, 86 years of age. The Grand Secretary extended the greetings of the Grand Lodge and they were given the Grand Honors of Masonry. T h e following is quoted from t h e preface t o t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s address: We are here for the purpose of reviewing the work of the past year and to lay plans for the future. At the end of this communication will we be able to point with pride and contemplate with gratitude and satisfied anticipation? I n our deliberations let us not be swayed by our emotions but with cool judgment and a sincere faith in the One Who is over all. U n d e r " N a t i o n a l C a l a m i t i e s " we t a k e pleasure in quoting t h e . second p a r a g r a p h : Notwithstanding the civil turbulence on the opposite side of this particular atom of creation, the world generally has apparently drifted a little nearer to the principle of settling its troubles peaceably. However, America and her Anglo Saxon mother jusliflably think it best to follow the policy as expressed in the picturesque language of one of our deceased statesmen brethren—mth reference to the big stick—until the final arrival of the oft referred to, though we fear yet far off millennium. And though we may be desirous of world peace, let us not be led by false doctrines or effeminate teachings into the idea that universal peace is near at hand. There are too many selfish, ambitious leaders among the ignorant emotional peoples of the world and too much questionable doctrine being promulgated within our own land to justify us in being unprepared to protect ourselves and our government.
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Following t h i s subject an interesting reference was m a d e t o t h e subject of " M a s o n r y ' s Influence," reading as follows: Masonry does not ordinarily work with a blare of trumpets. During the reign of thoughtful quiet it produces its best results, and I personally am convinced that during the passing of the years I have observed many individual instances where, like music. Masonry's quiet power has soothed the savage breast and worked changes toward refinement and culture. Governments are but a company of individuals and if Masonry can refine and ennoble selfish men, what is needed other than the application of Masonic influences in governments to secure univeral peace. Masonry as well as other peace loving influences in this country are delighted that during the past year our friends to the north have joined us in taking steps to unite these two great Anglo Saxon governments with stronger bonds of friendsliip and brotherhood. I t Is unthinkable that public sentiment would permit any serious misunderstanding between them. May the century of friendship of these peoples living side by side for 3,000 miles in peace and love without forts or guns, constitute the needed example to the rest of the world. F r o m t h e decisions r e n d e r e d b y t h e G r a n d Master we n o t e t h a t i t is t h e i r c u s t o m t o allow a n objection t o t h e a d v a n c e m e n t of a c a n d i d a t e t o r e m a i n in effect even t h o u g h t h e objector dies. One of t h e i r lodges, u n d e r t h e circumstances, a d v a n c e d a c a n d i d a t e against w h o m o b jections h a d b e e n filed, a n d t h e objector h a d passed a w a y , b u t t h e G r a n d M a s t e r found u p o n investigation t h a t t h e lodge h a d acted in good faith, a n d he r e p o r t e d t h a t he h a d " h e a l e d " t h e t r a n s a c t i o n . T h i s was a p p r o v e d by t h e G r a n d Lodge, a n d we therefore a s s u m e t h a t our N o r t h D a k o t a b r e t h r e n h a v e a regulation w h e r e b y t h e G r a n d M a s t e r can r e m e d y a n y m i s t a k e s m a d e , by a healing process. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r was asked whether it was n o t masonically unlawful for a lodge t o hold e n t e r t a i n m e n t programs, social dances or lodge b a n q u e t s in t h e lodge hall, provided t h e y were held u n d e r t h e supervision of Masonic Bodies. H e decided it was n o t unlawful, alt h o u g h several influential m e m b e r s h a d filed objection t o such use. I n t h e hope of allaying t h e feeling which existed in t h e lodge t h e G r a n d M a s t e r commissioned his D e p u t y to look i n t o t h e m a t t e r a n d e n d e a v o r t o compromise t h e s i t u a t i o n , b u t his efforts e v i d e n t l y were futile, a n d t h e G r a n d M a s t e r in concluding t h e subject h a d t h e following t o say: This is a country where majorities rule, where decisions of umpires and of courts are frankly and promptly accepted as law until otherwise established, and the brother or individual who refuses graciously to comply and cooperate, besides making himself extremely unhappy, is manifesting a spirit of intolerance, which is extremely un-American. H i s ruling w a s a p p r o v e d b y t h e G r a n d Lodge. H o w e v e r , t h e writer is of t h e opinion t h a t with b u t few exceptions outside of t h e o r d i n a r y business t r a n s a c t i o n s of a lodge, majority rules do n o t a p p l y , as in t h i s case t h e question a t issue was preserving peace a n d h a r m o n y in t h i s p a r t i c u l a r lodge a n d no m a j o r i t y proposition ever governed b y forcing s u c h a n issue.
1927-28.
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T h e following from t h e subject of " A W o r d of C a u t i o n " will no d o u b t be interesting t o our r e a d e r s : Brethren, I have, the past year attended many assemblies, public and quasi-public. Masonic and mixed, and it was left to members of our fraternity in this State to make the only spectacle of intoxication that I remember seeing at such assemblies all year. Lest we forget, may I remind you that the purchase of liquor is commonly considered as flagrant a crime as the sale—and in most sections the vender is known by the unsavory term of boot-legger. In judicial and In most all right-thinking circles, booze is considered a menace to society. If Masons must get drunk why not do it at home where their families can take care of them and enjoy the fun. I think most of you will agree with me that a drunken spectacle in public or private parties is no longer considered good form. True Masonic fellowship and brotherhood are animated by a higher type of spirit(s). Brethren the world measures the character of Masonry by the weak or dissolute member and as I have said to you many times in our assemblies, the world knows our professions of morality and loyalty to high ideals, our professed attitude towards good government and the enforcement of the law and the constitution. Then what must be the measure of their criticism of our works? Our professions whisper our loyalty of heart, and our actions sometimes fairly shout to the world their falsity. When we see a Brother making an unfortunate exhibition of liimsetf we are' almost led to repeat the exclamation of KING SOLOMON on a certain notable occasion, "What, can this be the Master?" T h e writer h a s always m a i n t a i n e d t h a t t h e efforts being p u t f o r t h b y a few G r a n d Jurisdictions t o hold w h a t is t e r m e d a P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r s ' meeting, or b y others a Get Together proposition, t e n d t o create s e n t i m e n t for t h e e s t a b l i s h m e n t of a General G r a n d Lodge, a n d n o t w i t h s t a n d i n g t h e following t a k e n from t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s a d d r e s s under t h e subject of " N a t i o n a l Masonic A s s o c i a t i o n s " we are m o r e firmly convinced t h a n ever t h a t t h e object to be a t t a i n e d is n o t h i n g less t h a n t h a t of a S u p r e m e G r a n d Lodge: The majority of the Grand ijodges of the United States are trying in a general way to get together, not as a General Grand Lodge, but for advisory and helpful purposes. So tolerant and kindly have the Grand Lodges become towards each other that there are only one or two Grand Jurisdictions that refuse to co-operate in one form or another. Prejudice is gradually being laid aside and tolerance and desire for mutual benefit is supplanting it rapidly. As evidence of our views on this subject we note in this excellent address u n d e r " G e n e r a l R e c o m m e n d a t i o n s " one reading as follows: At the Grand Masters' Conferences it has been brought out that many jurisdictions are adopting the policy of refusing to confer the Entered Apprentice Degree by courtesy for reasons that are quite patent; I would recommend the adoption of the same policy by our jurisdiction. I t will be n o t e d from t h e above t h a t t h e G r a n d M a s t e r , based u p o n t h e action of this G r a n d M a s t e r s ' Conference, makes a positive recommendation. As further evidence, we quote t h e next r e c o m m e n d a t i o n : A number of the Grand Jurisdictions have laws retaining either permanent or a term jurisdiction over suspended and expelled members likewise over rejected candidates. This Grand Lodge retains jurisdiction over such cases only
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• February,
while they reside within the State. I t might be a source of protection to Masonry in other jurisdictions if we were to change our policy somewhat. There is a happy tendency through the Conferences of Grand Masters for the jurisdictions to get together on many of these problems. R.-. W.'. Brother WALTER L . STOCKWELL presents another of his
interesting reports as Grand Secretary, from which we take pleasure in quoting his reference to life memberships: We desire to call attention to what seems to us as an abuse of this provision of the Grand Lodge By-laws. This by-law provides that a lodge may elect any brother a life member who has been a Master Mason in good standing for more than thirty years. I t is not mandatory and should not be used except with great care. Life memberships should be given only to those who have served long and well and who have reached that time of life when the productive years are past. Such membersliips ought not to be given to members who are still active and abundantly able to pay their dues. During the year one lodge has elected to Life Membership, ten to fifteen brethren, several of whom have not been Master Masons as long as I have been and who are abundantly able to pay their dues. This we consider violates the spirit of this By-law and seriously reduces the revenues of the lodge and the Grand Lodge. In some instances we have had to refuse to issue Life Certificates because the records show that these brethren have been under suspension for non-payment of dues over a period of several years. The by-law contemplates that a brother shall have been in good standing for thirty years or more. We thoroughly believe in the purpose of this provision, but, we also believe that it ought not to be used except with discretion. W e also t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following words from his conclusion: While this report has been in the process of preparation we have been thrilled by certain marvelous achievements of men and depressed by the failure of others. We have asked ourselves over and over again. Why do men achieve and why do they fail? They achieve when thej' hold fast to the spiritual elements in life. Faith in GOD as well as themselves; consideration for others; courage to face realities; High Ideals.—They fail when they forget that there is a GOD and leave Him and every thing else except self, out of account. Are we putting enough emphasis upon this very important element in our Masonic life and teacliings. We fear that at times we fail to drive home the all important lessons which Masonry intends to teach. In our haste to confer degrees and increase our membership, we are prone to overlook the essential religious and spiritual content of our ritual and lectures. B r o t h e r GEORGE H O V E Y P H E L P S s u b m i t s his fifth r e p o r t as Chairm a n of t h e C o m m i t t e e on Correspondence, a n d from t h e preface t o t h i s splendid review we quote t h e following; If I have made comments, let my readers understand such comments are wholly my own. Grand Lodge by the by-law creating my job, expressly refuses to be bound by anything 1, or any other Fraternal Correspondent, may say. So, just throw your brick-bats at me, remembering that there are over 1.5,000 mighty good fellows in North Dakota none of whom may think as I do. T h e writer does not agree with our good B r o t h e r P H E L P S , b u t on t h e c o n t r a r y he eliminates t h e whole question of personality, r a t h e r pre-
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ferring to express only opinions and comments based on the policy of our Grand Lodge, thereby making the preface to his report subject to review and if necessary criticism of the Grand Lodge. Brother PHELPS grants us a very liberal amount of space in his review, covering the Proceedings of our Grand Lodge for 1926. WALTER H . MURFIN, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, Fargo. WALTER L . STOCKWELL, R.'. W . ' . Grand Secretary, Fargo. GEORGE H . PHELPS, Correspondent, Bowbells. Next Annual, Fargo, June 19, 1928.
NOVA SCOTIA —1927. Lodges, 80; members, 9,820; net gain, 76. Halifax, June 8, 1927. ARTHUR JAMES DAVIS, M . ' . W . \ Grand Master. Brother J. G. MITCHELL, our Grand Representative, was present. Preliminary to the Communication of the Grand Lodge an unusually interesting sermon was delivered by their Grand Chaplain, R.-. W.'. Brother Rev. BRICE D . KNOTT, although to the writer this discourse partakes much more of the nature of a first class address than a sermon. Believing it is worthy of being made a part of this report we are quoting it in full: Whether the first lodges of Freemasons were formed by the Freemen of the Masonic craft, who were engaged in operative masonry, constructing the magnificent temples and cathedrals of the seventeenth century, or whether by the College of Architects who designed the splendid structures of that' period it may be difficult to determine, but this, at least, is true, that those first Free Masons were men who had not only a great love for beautiful proportions in architecture but a greater love for these same qualities as applied to the lives and characters of men. It was the observation of the symmetry and order in nature that led the first speculative masons to study the Divine plan and gather truth therefrom for life's guidance. This same idea has given rise to societies and birth to every useful art in all ages. In those first lodges not only were there men skillful with their hands but .there were men of scholarly and devout minds. They reasoned thus concerning the universe. There are tliree kingdoms, viz., mineral, vegetable and animal. AVhen in a primary condition all are inert matter and can be acted upon integrally by forces differing from themselves in very essential particulars. To minerals we apply the laws of affinity and repulsion. In the vegetable world there is the force of nature. Tn the animal life and tissues there is the force known as vitality. Has any one yet discovered the Ullima Ratio of the chemical law of affinity in the mineral, or the law of vitality in the vegetable and animal worlds— Yet there they are acting and related from the creation of the world. Man belongs to the animal kingdom, is said to be the summit of that kingdom. SHAKESPEARE says, " W h a t a piece of work is man! How noble in reason! How infinite in faculties! In form and moving. How expressive and admirable!
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February.
In action how like an angel—-In comprehension how like a GOD! The beauty of the world! The Poro(;on of animals! A.
B.
He is composed of a series of dualisms. I. He is an organized being. II. He has vitality, whereby his organisms may iierform their proper functions and without which they could not. I. He is a being having vital organs in full operation. II. He possesses a spiritual nature.
His spiritual nature is divided Into:^— C. I. Reason. II. Sentiment. a. He has reasoning faculties whereby he is able to judge as to facts and draw legitimate conclusions therefrom for his guidance in all matters of moment to Ms existence. b. He has an instinctive sense of social relationsliips, whereby he manifests certain qualities distinct from his reason which govern him in his' conduct toward liis fellows and also In regard to himself, wlxich the Masonic writers on ethics have divided Into:
{
I. II. 111.
To his Creator. To his Neighbor. To Himself.
The two positive forces within man, physical and spiritual, are constantly stimulating him to action. Speculative Masonry seeks to foster the processes that stimulate the spiritual by urging man along the path of ethical duty. 1.
His DUTY T O GOD.
From time immemorial men have loved to gather together in associations with some common bond of union. There were the Nazarites in SAMSON'S time, the Reehablties in ISAIAH'S day, the Knight Templars and the Crusaders in the ritualistic age. Back of all these Orders there was a desire to conserve a true conception of GOD. I t was man's supreme resource in his time of need. The belief in a Supreme Power is inherent in every human being; and so thoroughly interwoven with our nature Is this sentiment that it is impossible for anyone, at any period of life, wholly to divest himself of it. Masons are taught to reverence and adore GOD. The GOD as revealed in Holy Writ, especially the GOD of JESUS CHRIST, is the one worshipped by every Mason worthy of the name. To this Holy GOD he makes liis supplication and to Him he looks for succor and guidance in the varied circumstances of life. As he stands at the altar of his lodge with his brethren as witnesses he must aiBrm that his trust is in GOD and if unwilling so to afflrm he cannot receive the confidence and approbation of Masons. I repeat, the first and supreme teaching of Masonry is a realization of GOD in our midst. All ages of moral and spiritual progress have been marked by a sense of GOD. The Jewish people having no brilliancy of aims, philosophy or art, a little nation in a tiny land was raised to a dignity and influence unique among the nation by their consciousness of GOD. At the heart and centre of Israel's worship and witness was the thought of the temple on the hill, with its silent chamber lighted only as on golden cherubim and blood besprinkled mercy seat fell the radiance of the Shekinah of GOD, and when the Jew realized in his history the unfolding of a divine purpose and felt in it the heart beat of an everlasting love he arose t o a new stature and had a message for the whole world. But the glory faded from Judah's hills and to a later generation, busied with tradition and detail, GOD seemed afar off and a new beginning was necessary that man might once more realize his immenence.
1927-28.
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Our Masonic forerunners reverently worshipped GOD. TO them GOD was a reality, not a myth and their desire was to inculcate adoration for the Supreme Architect of the universe and to aver that those who took His name in vain were imperfect members of the craft. Now, ours is not an age of faith. It is an age of physical science when men are weighing the sun, analysing the star light and tracing GOD'S footsteps, but forgetting GOD. It behooves us as Masons to follow our ancient brethren, who founded speculative Masonry at a time when agnosticism was prevalent and who desired to keep alight on the altars of Masonry and in the world the Are of true and reverent devotion to an allwise GOD, in whose image man was made. Every Mason should be able to say:—• " O little heart of mine. Shall pain or sorrow make thee moan, . When all this GOD is all for thee, A Father all thine own? " II.
OTJR DUTY TO C U B NEIGHBOR.
Masonry is not a religion, it is a system of ethics. It does not seek to .usurp the place of the church. It aims rather to aid and support all the ethical teachings of the church. A man should be not less but more religious by his association with this institution. It instils and enforces the sacred duties of brotherly love, relief and truth. It inculcates all the mutual duties and obligations of man to man in all the relations of life.' Of Ruler and Ruled. Master Servant. Employer ' ' Employee. ' • Low. High Rich Poor. Learned Unlearned, Teacher ' Taught. Strong ' • Weak. Parent ' ' Child. Old ' Young. And the Living to the Dying and Dead. In a word it inculcates and enforces the practice of every moral virtue, which man owes to himself, his neighbor and his GOD. Our duty to our neighbor comprehends the thought of Liberty—Equality —Fraternity. All men are, or should be, relatively free. We sum this up in the words of the poet:— " I s true freedom but to break Fetters for our own dear sake And with leaden hearts forget That we owe mankind a debt— No! True freedom is to share All the chains our brothers wear And with hand and heart to be Earnest to make others free." We believe in Equality, not an equality which would make all men equal economically, socially and intellectually. That is absurd, there is no such thing possible but there is such a thing as an equality of opportunity. Men differ intellectually; RUSKIN—SHAKESPEABE. Men diHer in powers. NAPOLEON. ISAAC NEWTON and RHODES. One talented man carries the loads by sheer physical strength. Two talented men work with tools, ten talented men like EDISON mightily surpass their fellows. There is no equality in nature, all flowers are not the same hue, all birds have not the same notes. Out of diversity
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CORRESPONDENCE—NOVA
SCOTIA.
February,
come harmony. Each man makes his contribution. One man loves books, another loves tools, another the brush and another the field. We would not make all men equal but give to each and all an equal opportunity. This would do away with partizanship, bribery, treachery and hypocrisy and ensure fair, square dealing all, 'round. The equality of service as set forth in the story of the good Samaritan is CHRIST'S idea of our relationship to our neighbor. " D o as you would that others should Do always unto you Much may be done by everjone There's work for all to do." OUR DUTY TO OURSELVES.
" Ye are GOD'S building," said PAUL. AS the foundation of a good character Is true religion, so the plan of a good life is divine. An altogether human plan of life is always poor and defective. Man cannot shut GOD out of his life without realizing sooner or later that " He builds too low Who builds beneath the skies. " Man's chief end is to glorify GOD and to develop the divine plan withinhim. I.—In building our Temple of Character we must discharge all duties faithfully at home or abroad. We must have the keystone of love in its place. II.—We must not let difficulties stop us. but use them as stepping stones. "We must learn to subdue our passions and not give rein to them. Every victory won makes us better stones for that invisible Temple not made with hands -eternal in the heavens. III.—^In building character we need help from above. SOLOMON prayed -concerning the temple. Masons should pray concerning the Temple which is their body, that it may be a fit edifice for the Lord GOD to dwell in. Well is it :said, " T o thine own self be true and it must follow as the night the day, thou *anst not then be false to anyone." In the ordinary course of life there are many things we say and do which "belong to the wood, hay and stubble of life, things which are not just wrong in themselves but comparatively worthless in the development of character. The question arises is it worth while to spend this little day of earthly life without proper regard for the materials we are building into the structure of our characters. Let us keep out all defective, worthless material. "For the structure that we raise. Times is with material filled. Our todays and yesterdays. Are the blocks with which we build." Masonry has made its largest contribution to humanity's well being through the faithful translation of its teachings into actions by its myriads of members. Thus in the advancement of civilization in manifold relationships, Masonic duties have played no mean a part and by virtue of the fact that Kings and Potentates have espoused its teachings it is destined to play a still greater part in the coming days in bringing to pass the brotherhood of man and the fatherhood of GOD. Brethren and friends, let us honor our manhood by being true to ourselves, our neighbors and oiu' GOD and we shall thus confer honor upon any institution with which we may be connected.
From the Grand Secretary's report we quote the following: Freemasonry in several parts of this jurisdiction has shown considerable activity during the past year especially the Lodges at River Pliillip, Sydney and Yarmouth. From personal observation I am pleased to report of t h e
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—OHIO.
119
great increase of the enthusiasm and interest shown practically throughout the whole jurisdiction and the desire of so many of our brethren to do his part for the benefit of the community in which he lives, the result of which must rebound to the credit of the Craft in general.
During the year they lost, through death, R.'. W.". Brother JAMES C. LLOYD, Past Grand Senior Warden. The Grand Lodge ordered that the sympathy of the Grand Lodge be conveyed to the family by by the Grand Secretary. The Grand Secretary, Brother JAMES C . JONES, prepared the usual Report on Correspondence and we are under obligations for a most liberal review of our 1927 Proceedings. Brother JONES, in reviewing our journal, culls from it only those matters which will naturally be of interest to their readers. JOHN C . MACKAY, M.-.W.-. Grand Master, Sydney. JAMES C . JONES, R.'. W.". Grand Secretary and Correspondent,
Halifax. Next Annual, (Date or place not given).
OHIO -1926. Lodges, 608; members, 198,265; net gain, 4,804. Cincinnati, October 20, 1926.
EARLE STEWART, M.-. W . ' . Grand
Master. Kansas was honored at this Communication in having present as its Grand Representative Brother CHARLES L . MINOR, who was elected
Grand Master for the ensuing year. As a preface to his address the Grand Master had the following to say: The sands of time have run swiftly since last we met, and it seems but yesterday that we entered upon the discharge of those duties for which we shall now render to you an accounting. The work of the One Hundred and Seventeenth year of our Grand Lodge has been arduous, but pleasant, the duties many, but profitable, and the opportunities for service almost unlimited. It is gratifying to report that the year has been devoid of pestilence or calamity, and thatpeace and harmony have prevailed among the Brethren.
Under the head of "Inspections" he reports that all of their lodges were visited during the year in accordance with their regulations and that the examination showed that the .lodges were proficient in the Ritualistic work and their physical.and financial condition were excellent. He recommended a revision of their code and the preparation of a card index of their membership. Other than the above the Grand Master had nothing to offer in the way of constructive legislation or matters of general interest in the Craft in their own jurisdiction.
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CORRESPONDENCE—OHIO.
February,
F r o m his conclusion we are pleased t o quote t h e following: At this period of my year's worli, now almost finished, 1 have no new preachments to make and no new doctrines to publish. We stand by the Ancient Landmarks. I believe that the finest and best masonic literature is that contained in our Kitualistic and Monitorial lessons. Our Masonic education would be wonderfully fine if we had these lessons all firmly in mind, and our Masonic behavior would be par excellence if we would consistently follow their teachings. Our profession as Masons will mean much to us if we know it thoroughly and practice it daily. F r o m t h e G r a n d S e c r e t a r y ' s excellent report we are pleased t o r e p e a t his w o r d s u n d e r t h e s u b j e c t of " C a r d I n d e x S y s t e m " : During the year a total of S631 was expended for filing cabinets and cards and the new membership of 1024 and 192.5 was card indexed. Many inquiries are made usually by friends or relatives of members deceased perhaps years ago, and sometimes as to where certain persons now hold membership. We receive such refiuests for information almost weekly. We always wish we miglit be able to answer them, but we will never be able to do so unless tlie entire membership of tlie respective Lodges is card indexed. The time required to complete such an index will depend upon tlie amount appropriated for it from year to year. I t will be advisable to have the work completed over a number of years rather than in a limited period. When completed it will be a very valuable and useful record. If it will' only be permitted to card index tlie new membership from year to year from now on, it will be many years before it will answer, in a measure, its intended purpose and even then it will be impossible to give any information about any member prior to 1924. A more liberal allowance for the furtherance of this work is urged. Being confident of your desire to have the records of the Grand Secretary's Office known for completeness, availability, and excellence, your compliance with this recommendation is earnestly solicited. Undfer t h e subject of " D u p l i c a t e C h a r t e r s " we n o t e t h a t two of t h e i r lodges suffered t h e loss of their charters t h r o u g h fire, one of which was issued in 1818. W e refer t o t h i s as a m a t t e r of information t o our own r e a d e r s as i t e m p h a s i z e s t h e i m p o r t a n c e of our c u s t o m in h a v i n g lodges file their original charters in t h e archives of t h e G r a n d Lodge in our fireproof G r a n d Lodge Building, a n d furnishing in lieu thereof a certified p h o t o g r a p h i c copy. Since t h i s custom was a d o p t e d in our j u r i s d i c t i o n several of our lodges h a v e lost t h e i r p r o p e r t y b y fire; however, t h e i r c h a r t e r w a s safe a n d t h e furnishing of a n e w certified p h o t o g r a p h i c copy was a m a t t e r of little t r o u b l e a n d expense. T h r o u g h t h e r e p o r t of t h e C o m m i t t e e on J u r i s p r u d e n c e t h e following resolutions concerning t h e issuance of a uniform receipt for d u e s was a d o p t e d : Resolved, That the Grand Secretary be authorized to cause sufficient copies of said Uniform Receipt to be printed and to endorse thereon a facsimile of his signature; and to furnish to each Lodge making request therefor such uniform receipts at the actual cost thereof. Resolved, That each and every Secretary of a Lodge be required to use said Uniform Receipt in the collection and receipting for dues. T h e writer m i g h t suggest t o our Ohio b r e t h r e n t h a t such official receipts will n o t be recognized in N e w H a m p s h i r e , or a t least t h e y r e fused t o recognize exactly t h e s a m e form of receipt a d o p t e d in our own
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CORRESPONDENCE—OKLAHOMA.
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Grand Lodge many years ago. Therefore fraternal relations do not exist between the Grand Lodges of New Hampshire and Kansas. We are pleased to quote the following from the report of the Committee on Jurisprudence, which no doubt will be interesting to our readers: Every petitioner for initiation, and every applicant for affiliation from another Grand Jurisdiction, and every applicant for afHliation from this Jurisdiction who has been unaiRliated for six months, and also every expelled Brother upon application for restoration shall pay, in addition to the fee of the Lodge petitioned, the sum of eight dollars ($8), which shall be collected by said Lodge and paid annually by it to the Grand Lodge in addition to the Grand Dues above mentioned, and said sum of eight dollars ($8) above mentioned shall be held in a special fund to be used exclusively for the Ohio Masonic Home, and shall be withdrawn only after appropriation made by this Grand Lodge at an Annual Grand Communication. W e q u o t e t h e following concluding p a r a g r a p h of t h e r e p o r t of t h e c o m m i t t e e o n w h a t is k n o w n as t h e Masonic Service Association of t h e United States: Seeing no benefit in joining the Masonic Service Association which could not come to us through our present facilities, and also noting some obvious disadvantages, we recommend that the Grand Lodge of Ohio does not affiliate with the Masonic Service Association. B r o t h e r 0 . P . S P B R R A , P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r , again p r e p a r e d t h e usual R e p o r t on Correspondence in which h e g r a n t s t o u s m o r e t h a n t h r e e pages of his excellent report, covering our 1926 j o u r n a l . CHARLES L . MINOR, M.-.W.-. Grand Master, Springfield. HARRY S . JOHNSON, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Cincinnati. O. P. SPERRA, P.-. G.'. M .•., Correspondent, Ravenna.
Next Annual, Akron, October 12, 1927.
OKLAHOMA —1927. Lodges, 4 3 7 ; m e m b e r s , 71,002; n e t gain, 1,329. Muskogee, F e b r u a r y 8, 1927. C L A U D E A. S T U R G E O N , M.-.W.-. Grand Master. B r o t h e r M A H L O N F . M A N V I L L E , our G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e , was present. W e t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following from t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s address: You are assembled here to pass on the work of the year about to close, and to outline the work of the years to come. Many subjects and problems will have yoiu- attention, many differences of opinions will no doubt be held. It is the right of every brother to express his views if he so desires. In doing so let us ascribe t o every brother as high a motive as we claim for ourselves. Let us hope that the spirit of brotherly love will prevail and that all of our undertakings may be laudable, and that what we do here in the next two days may be for the advancement of Masonry and the best interest of the Craft at large.
122
CORRESPONDENCE—OKLAHOMA.
February,
We take the following from his subject of "Necrology" which we know will be interesting to our readers: • Masonry teaches that death is the last Great Foe to be conquered; that we are born to die, and that all who attain life must.also experience death; that death is the Great Leveler of all human distinctions, and he leads everyone to the door of that house appointed for all living, "where each shall take his chamber in the silent halls of death." Then silence until the last trumpet blows. Masonry also teaches that we are builders while we live this short life— builders of character which shall last always. That the Great Light, which is now open upon our altar Is the trestle board on which is delineated clearly and understandlngly the plans and specifications by which we should build for eternity. That during our short period of three score and ten years here on this earth, we should build the foundation of the superstructure which we would like to complete in the future life after we have.had our awakening.ln that "land that is fairer than day." Masonry clearly teaches that we shall live that life. Masonry also teaches that the supreme goal of life is the attainment of Brotherly Love, the ability to work in harmony and peace with our fellows, as we serve and help and acquit us creditably. Brotherly love is the jewel which should be Indelibly stamped In our hearts, as it is that jewel which will identify and designate each of us as one who is worthy to be raised from this dead level to a living perpendicular, to workii\ that new life where we may continue our service and usefulness, and may have the joy of erecting the superstructure on the foundation we have here laid. In his reference to those who passed away during the year we observe the name of our friend and brother, Judge WILLIAM LEMUEL EAGLETON. T h e writer realizes that the Grand Lodge of Oklahoma has indeed lost, a valuable member. On Wednesday evening the Grand Master presented Past Grand Master JOSEPH SAMUEL MURROW, known to the brethren as " F a t h e r " MuRROW. He served as Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of the Indian Territory in 1877 and 1878 and from 1880 until the consolidation of the Grand Lodges of the Indian Territory and Oklahoma. In 1909 he was Grand Secretary. He was then made Grand Secretary Emeritus and notwithstanding his age is able to attend all the Masonic Grand Bodies in that jurisdiction. The Grand Secretary's report'is well.prepared except in the matter of a summary of membership, as the Proceedings contain nothing of this kind and to ascertain the number of lodges on their rolls it is necessary to review the list of lodges and count them one by one. A splendid oration was delivered by R.-. W.'. SAMUEL H . LATTIMORE and from it we take the liberty of quoting the following: You were presented with the level, and were told that you were traveling upon the level of time to that undiscovered country from whose bourne no traveler returns. The level was, then, a symbol of Time. You held there in your hand just a piece of wood. That wasn't all of the length of the level, but was simply symbolical of the great level out beyond: it was a mere, small, tiny sector or portion of the level. I t symbolized a moment of time, and It was to teach you as a Fellowcraft-that you hold day by day but a moment of time under your control and in your possession. We do not have control of a day; we do not hold a week or a month or a year, but only a moment of time, and the great current of human life is determined by the use that you and I
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CORRESPONDENCE—OKLAHOMA.
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make of these golden moments; just one single moment in our possession and then it is gone forever. And so it was to teach you to prize and to possess and to use the moments as they go by in an unending stream.I t was a symbol of Eternity, because you were told you were traveling upon the level of time to that undiscovered country from whose bourne no traveler returns. There is no end to the level. A traveler upon an absolute level can go on day after day and never return to the starting point. Perhaps you have stood upon some great western plain; every portion of it mile upon mile apparently as level as a floor. You could look back along the rearward road to where it seemed to end a t the horizon and then forward to where the bending skies seemed to meet the uplifted earth, and yet you knew it was just an optical illusion—that the horizon.simply marked the line where the road followed the downward circle of the earth while the level of your vision left the material and went off into the illimitable reaches of the skies. T h e C o m m i t t e e on F i n a n c e r e c o m m e n d e d an a p p r o p r i a t i o n of $2,000.00 for t h e p u r c h a s e of a n automobile for t h e G r a n d M a s t e r . T h e retiring G r a n d M a s t e r was presented with t h e a u t o m o b i l e h e h a d been using d u r i n g t h e year. F r o m t h e r e p o r t of t h e C o m m i t t e e on Necrology we a r e pleased t o q u o t e t h e following: We pause today to honor the memories of our brethren whom the Grand Reaper, Death, has taken from us. We look toward the setting sun, and a t the horizon we dimly see a huge bridge. Its farther approach and the land to which it leads are invisible. As our eyes become focused to the distance we can discern a vast multitude, like a great army, who are gathered on this side and constantly move into its portals and disappear; and yet the numbers who are rushing in to pass across it never diminish, but rather grow in volume. Thus death swallows them up and we see them no more. Centuries upon centuries have rolled, and yet this flowing tide of humanity towards the bridge in the west, to the setting sun, has constantly increased. We still survive, and although most of us have past in years beyond the meridian of life, we are thankful thus to be spared to carry on the work in wisdom, strength and beauty, which our departed brethren have left to us. M.-. W.-. Brother THOMAS CHAUNCBY HUMPHRY prepared the Re-
port on Foreign Correspondence, and we are pleased to note an excellent review of our 1926 journal. EARLE C . FLESHER, M . ' . W / . Grand Master, Edmond. WILLIAM M . ANDERSON, R . \ W.'. Grand Secretary, Guthrie. . THOMAS CHAUNCEY HUMPHRY, P.-.G.'. M . - . , Correspondent, Hugo.
Next Annual, Oklahoma City, February 14, 1928.
124
CORRESPONDENCE—OBEGON.
February,
OREGON —1926. Lodges, 164; members, 28,969; net gain, 931. Portland, June 16, 1926. PERCY R . KELLY, M.-. W.-. Grand Master. The make-up of these Proceedings differs very materially from that of other Grand Jurisdictions, there being no Alpha to the journal; in other words, they fail to show the place where the Grand Lodge was held and the list of Grand Officers in the several stations when the Grand Lodge convened. Brother W. O. HAINES, our Grand Representative, was present. Among other things the Grand Master had the following to say in presenting his annual address: The Masonic order is a society of friends and brothers among whom no contention sliould exist save only that noble contention, or emulation rather, as to who may best serve and best agree, f n this spirit, I address you as your retiring Grand Master. If this conception of our fraternity is effaced, if one a t variance therewith is substituted, it matters not how well your various funds may have been administered, it matters not what splendid temples may have been erected, it matters not how eloquent t h e speeches of your leaders may have been, Masonry i.s a failure. You will seek in vain to find in ritual, monitor or other writings: you will seek in vain to find in dollars, dress or display; you wiU seek in vain to find in form, magnitude or miuiificence the real, the actual, the genuine essence of true Masonry. I t abides only in the hearts and minds of Masons. I t is manifested by the life, t h e work and the character of those who possess it. They live to serve, and their service is one of love. C o n c e r n i n g t h e subject of " L e c t u r e r " h e s u b m i t t e d t h e following: A lecturer imbued with t h e genuine spirit of true Masonry, the Masonry of a pure and contrite heart; familiar with the various activities of the Grand Lodge; versed in the esoteric work, and willing to devote his entire time to his work as Masonic lecturer for this Grand Jurisdiction, could and would, in my opinion, do more to accomplish the purpose I am now discussing than any other agency. His work would not be restricted to any one locality, as is the work of the District Deputy, nor would it suffer interruption as that of every other officer of the Grand Lodge now suffers. Men and brethren, we have provided for our aged members and their wives and widows, we have provided for the cliildren, we are assisting in the schooling of the boys and girls, we have a beautiful and impressive ritual for the neophytes; but I am now pleading for the rank and file of our membership who have no need for financial assistance, who have become surfeited with ritualism and who, in my judgment, are entitled to more, much more, when they attend our communications, than they now receive. I wish that it may be said of me as a summation of my advice as Grand Master that I urged you to make your constituent lodge communications more attractive. I believe that the right kind of a state lecturer could materially arid effectively help you to do that. We notice the Masonic Board of Relief have installed an up-todate system of accounts, which we have no doubt will prove valuable
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not only for the present but in years to come. We also notice that during the year this Board had under consideration 570 cases, distributed among 57 jurisdictions and expended for relief more than $6,000.00. Under the head of "Relief Policy" we are pleased to quote the following: No one has been denied a hearing, regardless of the eventual outcome of the case. No Mason has been turned away hungry because misfortune prevented him from promptly paying his dues. Imposters have been accorded the treatment they deserve and warning circulars sent out in these cases. Relief has been administered to the best of our understanding and ability, with the idea of assisting each unfortunate brother to get bacli on Ills feet, and never in such a manner as to foster unwarranted continued dependence upon charity. In these efforts to assist our more unfortunate brethren to help themselves we have received the valuable co-operation and assistance of the Masonic Service and Employment Bureau. I n t h e r e p o r t on " M a s o n i c E d u c a t i o n " a m o n g other t h i n g s w e find t h e following, which we believe t o be t h e proper m e t h o d for i m parting M a s o n i c information t o m e m b e r s of t h e Craft: We commend the work of the Committee on Masonic Instruction. The result of that committee's activities is proving very beneficial to the Craft. I t s work may be compared with the primary schools of the state. The first step in Masonic education should be knowledge of the ritual. Such knowledge is more than mere mechanical repetition of the secret work. Memorizing the ritualistic work is storing the mind with the very best of thought in tlie choicest language. A mind filled with such lore is to a considerable degree educated Masonlcally. We recommend that the work of that committee be encouraged and enlarged to the greatest extent i)ossible. The next step in Masonic Research and Educationln importance as well as in time, in our estimation, is a thorough knowledge of tlie ancient cliarges, t h e land marks of this Grand J lu-isdiction and the by-laws, knowledge and teaching contained in our Code. The encouragement of this work could well be committed to the District Deputy Grand Masters. Masons should be taught from the beginning of their Masonic career to respect the law. both the moral as incorporated in our manual and the civic as enacted by the legislature of the state. Greater stress should be placed upon the instruction to the candidate as prescribed by our manual and required to be given to the candidate immediately following the charge in the Master Mason degree. Observance of the civic law Is one of the first and most Important duties of every Mason. This duty cannot beover-emphasized to mu- novitiates. M.-.W.-. Brother DAVID P. MASON submitted the Report on Correspondence and we are under obligations for a splendid reference t o our 1925 Proceedings. Brother MASON spares neither time nor space in covering the more important transactions in the various jurisdictions. His work is splendid throughout. EDGAR H . SENSENICH, M.-.W.'. Grand Master, Portland. D. RuFUS CHENEY, R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary, Portland. DAVID P. MASON, P.-.G.-.M.-., Correspondent, Albany. Next Annual, Portland, June 15, 1927.
126
CORRESPONDENCE—PANAMA.
February.
PANAMA —1926-1927. Lodges, 8; members, 355; net loss, 45. Annual Communication held in Panama, June 13, 1925. VICTOR JESURUN, M.-. W.-. Grand Master.
The Grand Representatives of other Grand Lodges were received and welcomed to this Communication. The Quarterly Communication of iVIarch 2, 1925, and a Special Communication of March'7, 1925, to receive the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, were approved. During the year four special dispensations were issued for various purposes. At the Communication held on September 15, 1925, reports were received from all the lodges in that jurisdiction. The annual election of officers was held on February 20, 1926, resulting in the selection of Brother VICTOR JESURUN as Grand Master. We notice in the list of Grand Representatives that of Kansas is missing, which would indicate that Brother ABRAHAM FRANKEL was not at his post of duty. We take the liberty of suggesting to our Panama brethren that they list the names of Grand Representatives who are in attendance at their Communications in order that the jurisdictions they represent may have knowledge as to their jurisdictions being properly represented. VICTOR JESURUN, M . - . W . ' . Grand Master, Panama. D. LESLIE SASSO, R.'. W.-. Grand Secretary, Apartado 350, Panama.
We notice in the list of officers the name of the Grand Secretary is recorded as LESLIE SASSO while in the front of the Proceedings the name appears as D. LESLIE SASSO.
PENNSYLVANIA —1926. Lodges, 559; members, 207,343; net gain, 3,232. A Quarterly Communication was held March 3, 1926.
WILLIAM
M. HAMILTON, R.-. W.-. Grand Master.
The Grand Chaplain, in eulogizing the life and character of their late Brother A. G. CRISWBLL SMITH, among other things had the following to say: Brethren, we never know how much we promise when we say we will serve the Craft with all our strength. But the work is so good that we cannot commit ourselves to it too strongly. The more freely and heartily we make the promise, the more likely we shall be to keep it. The more we help others to do the same, the more we shall help ourselves. Never does a Brother Mason's work become so nearly Divine as when he puts forth his hand to restore, to reclaim, to redeem.
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—PENNSYLVANIA.
127
To break down is the work of a crank or a block-head. To build up and to beautify, to restore and to bless is the work of man in whom the spirit of his Maker dwells. This is the noblest and most needed work in the world; not the suggestion of new doubt and unjust criticism, but the restoration of old faith; not the breaking of a reed that is already bruised, but the supply of a staff that will sustain the weary in life's journey; not the quenching of a flame that has already died into embers, but the kindling of a Are that shall burn with steady light. It is easy to find fault with what others say and throw doubt on what others believe. The world has had too much of that already. The sincere seeker after Masonic Light will not fail in his mission if he will study the useful and important lessons therein conta,ined and thus give some safe arid satisfactory answer to the deepest cry of humanity in- all ages. A Quarterly C o m m u n i c a t i o n was held December 1, 1926, for t h e purpose of holding their a n n u a l election of G r a n d Officers. B r o t h e r W I L L I A M M . H A M I L T O N was again chosen as G r a n d M a s t e r . A t this C o m m u n i c a t i o n detailed r e p o r t s of their c h a r i t y fund a n d bequests were received. As t h e G r a n d Lodge of Pennsylvania a n d their M a s o n i c H o m e h a v e received so m u c h consideration a t t h e h a n d s of m a n y of their b r e t h r e n possessed of large wordly possessions we believe as a m a t t e r of information t o t h e r e a d e r s as well as those who p r e p a r e t h e R e p o r t s on Correspondence, it would be well t o submit, a t t h e close of these splendid reports, a brief s u m m a r y showing t h e a m o u n t of funds u n d e r t h e head of each bequest or donation. F r o m t h e report of t h e C o m m i t t e e on L i b r a r y we quote t h e following: On June 2, 1926, the Sojourners Club, an organization whose membership is composed of commissioned officers of the United States Army, Navy and Marine" Service who are Master Masons, erected a tablet on the building now occupying the site of the Old Tun Tavern in Water Street. This ancient hostelry was famous not only as the meeting place of the first Grand Lodge in America, but also as the place where the first Com;pany of United States Marines was organized in 17S6 by Captain ROBERT MULLIN. The tablet is of bronze and measures thirty-two inches by twenty-two inches and In addition to a representation of the Old Tavern as it has come down to us by tradition and other appropriate Symbols it contains the following Inscription: "On this Site stood the Tun Tavern, where on St. John's Day, June 24, 1732. A Grand Lodge of the Ancient and_ Honorable Society of .Free and Accepted Masons was held. " I n commemoration, this Tablet is erected by the Philadelphia Chapter No. 16, Sojourners Club, June 2, 1926." During t h e year t h e G r a n d M a s t e r received 199 requests for admission to their H o m e . T h e t o t a l m e m b e r s h i p of t h e H o m e , as we t a k e it from t h e report, is 257, listed as follows: M a s t e r Masons, 106; wives, 26; widows, 55; mothers, 2 1 ; minor sons, 40; minor daughters, 9. We note from t h e lecture corps t h a t 98 applications were m a d e for lecturers, 96 of which were furnished b y t h e G r a n d Lodge. T h e y h a v e 104 lecturers on their roster. W e presume all of these b r e t h r e n are proficient in t h e R i t u a l a n d c o m p e t e n t t o i n s t r u c t t h e lodges, which s p e a k s well for t h a t jurisdiction. T h e Annual G r a n d C o m m u n i c a t i o n was held December 27, 1926, a t which t h e officers for t h e ensuing year were installed.
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COMRESPONDENCE—PENNSYLVANIA.
February,
We are pleased to quote the following from the Grand Master's address: The time, on the whole, has been uneventful. Peace and harmony have prevailed throughoiit the entire Jurisdiction, and we have "pursued the even tenor of our w a y s " rejoicing that the teachings of Freemasonry have been so flrnily implanted in the hearts of its followers, that neither envy, discord, nor confusion is permitted to interrupt the universal peace and tranquility which pervades in all of its deliberations. We give praise to Almighty GOD for the many blessings He has permitted us to enjoy, and gratefully acknowledging His goodness and mercy, reverently ask that Us favor may continue to be upon us, to guide and to guard us in all we may have to do.
Under "Initiation of Petitioners" the Grand Master had the following to say: The great influx of petitions a few years ago, however, and the consequent pressure brought upon the Lodges and their officers, by the great increase in the work required of them, and their anxious and, indeed, laudable desire to meet the demands which were made upon them, gave rise to methods which tended to detract much from the dignity wUch should attend the initiation or advancement of a petitioner, and so flx in the mind of the candidate a standard of low degree, by which his future intercourse with the Fraternity would be measured. These practices have largely fallen into disuse, but the one of most frequent occurrence, that of having a petitioner in waiting, while action is being had on his petition, still persists. 1 have long been of the opinion that an interval of a Masonic month should elapse, between the approval and the initiation of a petitioner, but it has been represented that such a requirement would involve some difficulty in the arrangement of schedules of work in busy Lodges, and as any reasonable interval should accomplish the desired result, it is considered sufficient for the District Deputy Grand Alasters to direct their Lodges that a petitioner is not to be Initiated on the date of the approval of his petition. W e are pleased to q u o t e his words u n d e r t h e subject of " A p p e n d a n t Organizations": Complaints have come to the office, of the Grand Master, in such number, during the past year, regarding the grossly unMasonic conduct of certain organizations, whose membership is composed entirely of Masons, that it is evident, if the present conditions continue, that action by Grand Lodge, for their suppression, will become a matter of necessity, in the not distant future. Cases, some of them of a degrading nature, are now under investigation, which, being of wide notoriety, inevitably tend to bring the Fraternity into disrepute, in many minds, while others, based on differences existing within the offending organizations themselves, are considered and are widely quoted as '.•quarrels among the Masons," which will also tend to the establishment of erroneous opinions regarding the Craft. The suggestions of Grand Master GOODYEAR, in his address of a year ago,, that the lime had come when the privilege of accepting membership in organizations of this character which may hereafter be established, should be denied to the Brethren, is being given careful consideration, and will probably come before Grand Lodge in the form of a report from the Committee on Landmarks, to which Committee the question will be referred. The remedy for the existing conditions, and the means for avoiding restrictive legislation, are in the hands of the Brethren themselves, and it is
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confidently expected that, as the seriousness of the situation impresses itself upon them, they will, for themselves, apply such corrective measures, that the necessity for action by Grand Lodge mil be entirely avoided. He called attention to the practice of electioneering for office and in doing so made it plain that this practice would not be longer tolerated. In dealing with the proposition he concluded with the following words: It is. therefore, all the more to be regretted, that an occasion has arisen, when, by the indiscreet conduct of unthinking friends, it became necessary to suggest the impropriety of a Brother continuing as a candidate for official station in his Lodge, and to direct that, in event of his election, he should not be installed therein. A Grand Master resorts to such corrective measures with great reluctance, • and only when the conditions imperatively demand such action, and hence, since the ofBcers and Brethren are so well informed as to the proper procedure, it is hoped there may be no future occasion for criticism. He refers in a touching manner to the death of their distinguished Past Grand Master, Judge GEORGE B . ORLADY. From his remarks we quote the following: For many years Brother ORT^ADY was an outstanding figure in tlie affairs of the State, and of his Lodge and Grand Lodge, and in all of the activities in which he was engaged he tooK conspicuous part, and exerted an influence which was always for good. In the State, as a Justice of the Superior Court, he made a record that has been equalled by but few. and had the esteem and respect of all with whom he came in contact, as a just judge and a wise counsellor. As a member of the Fraternity, and an official in Lodge and Grand Lodge, he made a deep impress on the history of the Craft. He was a Mason for more than fifty years, and in recognition of his unusual ability, he became Worshipful Master of liis Lodge in the fourth year of his membership. He began his work in Grand Lodge in 1890, and in official station and as a member of important Committees, his active service continued until his death. As Right Worshipful Grand Master, his deep research and wide knowledge of Masonic history confirmed, in indisputable manner, the question of the priority of this Grand Lodge in organized Masonry in America, and his efforts to demonstrate the value of frequent conferences of Grand Masters and Representatives of Grand Lodges, which then began, are even now, bearing fruit, and such an organization will, in all probabiUty, be effected in the near future. His reference to the so-called Masonic Service Association is extremely interesting; however, it is an old story and the writer does not feel justified in wasting space, and therefore must content himself with simply stating that the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania withdrew from this self-constituted organization. From the splendid but brief eulogy on their Past Grand Master Brother GEORGE B. ORLADY, we quote the following: Sometime during the silence of that night the loving, compassionate heart of this devoted husband and father, this distinguished and honored jurist, this loyal and beloved Brother in Freemasonry, ceased to beat. With the announcement of the passing of his great soul from its earthly temple to " t h e House not made with hands, eternal in the Heavens," a wave of deep sorrow swept over
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CORRESPONDENCE—PENNSYLVANIA.
February,
the length and breadth of the Commonwealth he served so long and so faithfully, for his stately form, genial smile, hearty greeting and manifold noble and appealing qualities were known and loved throughout its borders. To us, his Masonic Brethren, the loss Is irreparable. We remember him not only as Right Worshipful Past Grand Master of this Grand Lodge, but also as a consistent member of subordinate bodies and a most efficient member of the various committees upon which he served from time to time.
No better illustration of his conception of Freemasonry can be given than to quote his own eloquent description of its essentials: "Freemasonry is not a religion, but with us it is an unincorporated association of men believing that we are under a continuing obligation to pay a rational homage to Deity, and that those who violate not the rules of right written by the Almighty upon their hearts and consciences may be received as Brethren. The world's Great Architect is our Supreme Grand Master and the unerring rule He has given us is that by wliich we work. We believe in and practise a universal religion not circumscribed by sect or sept or faith of men, or licensed by creed; a shoreless communion that accepts men of all climes, nations and tongues, and embraces every religion where belief in GOD exists and fraternal language is spoken * * * . We demand that everyone of our membership shall be a good law-abiding citizen and submit himself to the established government of his country. Next to reverence toward the Supreme Being and a respect for the religion of Ms conscience, the earliest and most Important lesson impressed on the mind of a Freemason Is submission to the government and its laws. Contention in theological and political affairs is banished from our conferences. As men, we assert that religious faith which our reason, and conscience enjoin: As citizens, we adhere to those political principles which our judgment adopts so that liberty may be fostered and injustice avoided." . We regret to note the resignation of Brother THOMAS F . PENMAN, Chairman of the Committee on Correspondence, the absence of whose report will be a sore disappointment to those of us who are privileged to write the annual Report on Correspondence. We also observe t h a t the Librarian presented a report of this kind, which, on motion, was referred to the Grand Master with power to print if he so desired. The report does not appear in the Proceedings and we therefore assume t h a t none was published. WILLIAM M . HAMILTON, R.-.W.-. Grand Master, Philadelphia. JOHN A. PERRY, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Philadelphia. JESSE E . B . CUNNINGHAM, Correspondent, Harrisburg. Next Annual, Philadelphia, December 27, 1927.
1927-28.
CoBBESPONDENCE—PHILIPPINE
ISLANDS.
131
PHILIPPINE ISLANDS—1927. Lodges, 102; members, 6,842; net gain, 5. Manila, January 25, 1927. FRANCISCO A. DELGADO, M . - . W . ' . Grand Master. We regret to note the absence of our Grand Representative, Brother HARVEY A. BORDNBR, who was listed as Grand Standard Bearer at the last Annual Communication. The Grand Lodge was declared to be at recess, after which an address of welcome was .delivered by EUGENE A. GILMORE, ViceGovernor of the Philippine Islands. The Proceedings state t h a t he delivered a brilliant address, in which he welcomed the members of the Grand Lodge of Manila. Immediately following this we notice the Grand Master "declared to be open an Emergent Lodge for the purpose of making the Honorable EUGENE A. GILMORE" a Mason at sight. The story is best told by quoting that portion of their journal: The Grand Master then declared to he open an Emergent Lodge for the purpose of making the Honorable EUGENE A. GILMORE, Vice-Governor and Secretary of Public Instruction of the PhlUppine Islands, a Mason at sight. The three degrees in abbreviated form were then conferred upon the candidate by the M.'.W.*. Grand Master. During the conferring of the degrees various Past Grand Masters assisted in the presentations of apron, tools, modes of recognition, teachings and lectures, and also in delivering charges and congratulations. The youngest Master Mason, as guest of the Grand Lodge, was welcomed and seated on the right of the Grand Master. This w i t h o u t d o u b t is a new d e p a r t u r e i n M a s o n r y as t h e p r a c t i c e of m a k i n g M a s o n s a t sight, which is seldom exercised, is a l w a y s d o n e in a lodge, or in t h e b o d y of t h e G r a n d Lodge. T h e proceedings, t h e r e fore, in t h i s case, of creating " a n E m e r g e n t L o d g e " is certainly a novel idea t o s a y t h e least. F r o m t h e address of t h e G r a n d Master w e q u o t e t h e following from" t h e subject of " C o n d i t i o n s in G e n e r a l " : The dignity and sovereignty of our Most Worshipful Grand Lodge have been zealously guarded and defended in all matters involving the same which came up for solution. The old (though unfounded) prejudices against our Fraternity, existing on the part of some elements in many sections of our country due to misinformation, have been met squarely and dispelled thru all proper means possible, to the extent that now the public gatherings of our Lodges and Brethren in the provinces and in this metropolis as well, are always very largely attended by the best elements of our respective communities, our members are among the leaders of thought and action and our Lodges are more and more being regarded as the true beacon lights for the diffusion of truth, knowledge, morality and charity. The number of our Lodges and membership has had a normal and healthy growth during the year. Cases of reaUy unworthy men being taken into our Fraternity have been very rare indeed, thus showing that members of the Craft in this Jurisdiction are maintaining the true standards as to qualifications.
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CORRESPONDENCE—PHILIPPINE
ISLANDS.
February.
Dispensations were issued for the formation of three new lodges, all of which were in time chartered. They publish in that country a periodical known as the "Cabletow", and under that head we find the following: The Cabletow has been continued during the year and has been a means of disseminating much information and inspiring educational material to our entire membership. The paper goes into the homes of every member of the Lodges of this Grand Jurisdiction. We are justly proud of our efforts in journalIsm and the number of articles that have been copied from the Cabletow in every land and in many languages have spoken perhaps louder than any words of ours could do the value and the quality of the articles and editorials appearing in every issue of the paper. So far there has not been one issue from which some other Masonic publication has not republished one or more articles. One Masonic magazine copied three articles from one of our issues and reprinted same In one of its issues. Nearly all of those reprinting from the Cabhlow give due credit to its source.
Concerning the dress in their Grand Lodge we quote the following resolution which was submitted under the subject of "Proper Dress": Resolved, That it is the sense of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the Philippine Islands, considering the peculiar climatic conditions existing in this Jurisdiction, that the white tuxedo and a white straw hat is just as appropriate for the Grand Officers and Masters and other officers for attendance in all formal ceremonies as the time-honored dress-suit and top hat.
From the Grand Master's conclusion we submit the following: My parting words are that we should all ever endeavor, more and more If possible, to translate into our actual and everyday lives the teachings of our Ancient and Honorable Fraternity. Remember always that we are continually and zealously watched by those who are not with us in thought and action, and that they take advantage of any little or big mistake or misfortune of any individual mason, specially if he be an officer of the Grand Lodge or of a Lodge, in an endeavor to slander and misrepresent our Institution. I t is for this reason that we should be particularly careful in selecting for our officers those only who can stand successfully the minutest scrutiny of friends and foes into their private and public life. We should never forget that— " F a i t h without works is dead; Profession without practice, dead, also; A man's a Mason only when he strives To make his practice quadrate with his creed."
Likewise from the Grand Secretary's report we quote his words under the same heading: We can say with satisfaction that this has been a successful year. The spirit of Masonry has been seen and felt among the brethren and peace and harmony have characterized our attainments. In conclusion It must be stated that we are not unmindful of the loyal and sympathetic co-operation of all the Brethren with the Grand Lodge office, and in consequence it is our desire to record our sincere appreciation and express our grateful thanks for all the services rendered and the large and small acts of duty and love which sum up the total of the year's labors for the Frater-
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ISLANDS.
133
nity we love so much and for which we strive from day to day, with the hope that humanity may improve, and the world be better because of Freemasonry. " If we could push ajar the gates of life And stand within and all GOD'S workings see. We could interpret all this doubt and strife. And for each mystery could find a key." T h e Lecturer, a m o n g other things, s u b m i t t e d t h e following: Ritualistic Work. It gives me great satisfaction to state here that the ritualistic work of our subordinate Lodges is becoming more perfect. The work is now almost uniform in all the Lodges. This has been brought about by the preparation by the Custodians of the Work of a key to our ritualistic work which also explains the positions and movements of the officers and other Brethren conferring the degrees. There is a commendable tendency among our Lodges who have both English and Spanish-speaking members, to organize teams for both languages so that the work may be put on at any moment in either English or Spanish. This is naturally of benefit to all the Brethren and results in the rituaUstlc work being performed with better understanding by all. T h e following resolution was s u b m i t t e d and t h r o u g h t h e r e p o r t of t h e C o m m i t t e e on Jurisprudence was a d o p t e d : Resolved, That any Entered Apprentice or Fellow Craft failing to qualify or present himself for advancement to the next higher degree for a period of twelve months from date of initiation or passing be dropped from the Lodge register, and that portion of the fees corresponding to the degree or degrees not taken be forfeited unless the Lodge shall otherwise direct. We notice a history of M a s o n r y in t h e Philippines is t o be p r e pared and published in " T h e N e w A g e " . While we have n o objections t o t h e merits of t h a t particular publication, yet as a m a t t e r of expediency this subject would be of m u c h more value if printed in one of our Masonic publications of a more general circulation; in other w o r d s , " T h e N e w A g e " is confined t o Scottish Rite members only a n d as i t is printed solely for t h e purpose of building u p t h a t Rite we feel t h a t a n article such as a history of M a s o n r y in t h e Philippines should b e m o r e widely circulated. We are pleased t o q u o t e t h e following few words from t h e i n augural address of t h e G r a n d M a s t e r : Let us give thought to this great opportunity for good work and efficient service to the Craft, which is at hand. Let us reflect seriously on the work which lies before us. Let us put forth our best efforts to obtain and retain a better knowledge and realization of our fraternal duties; let us work with real zeal so that the Lodges of our Grand Lodge may continue to prosper during this present year. Let us bear constantly in mind the precepts of our Order; which is, to be continually at work on the temple of human character.
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We have the opponents of Masonry whose minds are saturated with the idea that the teachings of our Fraternity are irreligious and unmoral, to say the least. We should do what we can to clear their minds of such wrong notions, that they, as well as others outside our Order, may know what Freemasonry stands for. That it labors to better the conditions of humanity from
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CoBBESPONDENCE—PRINCE
EDWARD
ISLAND.
February,
the material and spiritual standpoint; that it leads and it lifts the human family to a higher social a n d intellectual plane. That it honors equally those who work with their hands as those who follow intellectual callings. That it preaches and practices: toleration; respect for our fellowraen and ourselves; liberty of conscience; that it respects the religious faith, as well as the political sympathies of its members, but prohibits all discussions of such subjects in its sessions. That it accepts men of all nationalities and creeds. I t demands absolute tolerance. Masonry believes in and strives for a better and fuller realization of the brotherhood of man and the fatherhood of GOD.
Our Proceedings for 1926 are reviewed and covered in the Report on Correspondence submitted by Brother GEORGE R . HARVEY, Past Grand Master. Brother HARVEY submits an extremely interesting
review and the good brethren of the Philippine Islands are disposed to grant him all the space necessary in this work. JOSEPH H . SCHMIDT, M . ' . W . ' . Grand Master, Manila. NEWTON C . COMFORT, R . ' . W.-. Grand Secretary, Manila. GEORGE R . HARVEY, P.'.G.". M . - . , Correspondent.
Next Annual, January 24, 1928.
PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND—1927. Lodges, 1 8 ; m e m b e r s , 1,197; n e t gain, 20. Kensington,
J u n e 2 2 , 1927.
JOHN
M . NICHOLSON,
M . - . W.:
Grand Master. K a n s a s w a s represented a t t h i s C o m m u n i c a t i o n b y B r o t h e r W . G.
MCDONALD.
T h e G r a n d Master s u b m i t t e d a v e r y i n t e r e s t i n g address, a n d w e t a k e a d v a n t a g e of quoting t h e following from h i s preface: Another year has passed! How significant is this brief and commonplace statement! Another page in the Journal of the Years is about to be turned, and it is for us to ask ourselves frankly and fearlessly just what appears t o our credit in the record of the year that has become a memory, and what have we to carry forward to the spotless surface of the new sheet. The challenge comes to each individual Mason, to each particular Ijodge, and to this Most AVorshipful Grand Lodge as a body; can we justify our Masonic existence? Does our zeal for Masonry a n d our appreciation of its purpose, aims and ideals warrant our gathering today in a mood of self-congratulation, or have our failures outweighed our successes, the debit entries outnumbered the credits? I hesitate. Brethren, to attempt to answer this question of my own asking. I leave it to each Brother t o ponder the thought in his own heart and conscience. Not in any despondent spirit do I suggest this; rather am I hopeful that serious consideration of the immensity of the great institution, and of our responsibilities to it, will stimulate each in the determination to "improve himself in Masonry" and, so doing, to fulfil those great duties which, as Masons, we are charged to inculcate: " t o GOD, our neighbours and ourselves."
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What is this Masonry whose votaries we are? What is this Institution which has made such an appeal to the hearts of men all through the years down to the present, when millions subscribe to its tenets? Many answers have
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been offered to this old question. I should like to quote size. " T h e activity of closely united men." Masonry is the activity of closely united men who, employing symbolical forms borrowed principally from the mason's trade and from architecture, work for the welfare of mankind, striving morally to ennoble themselves and others, and thereby to bring about a universal league of mankind, which they aspire to exhibit even now on a small scale. There are two phrases in this definition which particularly appeal to me, and which I accordingly emphasize. " T h e activity of closely imited men." Masonry is activity, and that with a purpose, an ultimate purpose " t o bring about a universal league of mankind." What possibilities there are in this thoughtl Surely it is no Utopian dream that such a development may come—• when the barriers of misunderstanding between men and nations wiU be broken down. Not a League of Nations but a League of Mankind! And there is a local application of this thought for each one of us. Masons in the true practice of their art "aspire to exhibit even now on a small scale" such a condition.
The Grand Secretary's report is brief, yet very complete and he seems well satisfied with their small net increase. In the evening the Grand Marshal formed the brethren in line, after which they attended Divine Service in St. Mark's Anglican Church. There is no Report on Correspondence. WiLLAiM J. DRAKE, M . - . W . \ Grand Master, Charlottetown. ERNEST KEMP, R . - . W . \ Grand Secretary, Charlottetown.
Next Annual, Port Hill, June 27, 1928.
QUEBEC —1927. Lodges, 84; members, 14,689; net gain, 537. . Quebec, February 9, 1927.
WILLIAM J. EWING, M.-.W.-.Grand
Master. Our Grand Representative was not present at this Communication. Prom the Grand Master's address we quote the following: I would especially request that every new member feel perfectly free to take part in our deliberations, and debates, and be prepared to give to this Communication, the benefit of their counsel and advice, upon the various subjects which will be submitted for your consideration. The EARL OP ELGIN AND KINCARDINE, Past Grand Master of the
Grand Lodge of Scotland, was received in their Elgin Lodge No. 7, on November 1, 1926. On this occasion he was presented with a jewel by Elgin Lodge, and to which presentation he made a suitable reply. During the year the Grand Master was approached by a number of colored Masons residing in Montreal, requesting that he grant a dispensation to form a colored lodge. We consider that the Grand Master
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CORRESPONDENCE—QUEBEC.
February,
handled this matter in a most dignified manner, and we are pleased to quote his words on the subject: I consider that it would be a grave error to recognize any distinction of race or color in this Jurisdiction, and tliat it is contrary to all British Institutions, to so differentiate between races, and I therefore refused to entertain the proposition. F r o m his conclusion we t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following: I t speaks well for I^^'ree Masonry, tliat it is aiile to attract to its banners the outstanding men in every walk of life, and that leaders of thought, religion and business interests, are in many cases, among tlie foremost of our enthusiastic Masons, and I am convinced, that as long as this condition prevails, the future of Free Masonry is assured, and in safe hands.
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The day has gone when one country can live to itself, or wlien any part of our great Dominion can be isolated from the other sections, or refuse to assume its share of the common Ijurdens and aspirations, wliich belong to tlie nation as a whole; and I know of no higher service that we can perform to our country, at this particular period in her history, than that of doing our share in promoting a spirit of tolerance and good will amongst the different races and creeds in this Canada of ours. And furthermore I know of no body of men, who, on account of their peculiar training in the i)rinciples of harmony and i)rotherly love, can do more towards acliieving this aim, than the Masonic Order. Speaking of the neglect of some of their lodges to deliver the lectures the committee on State of Masonry had the following to say: We note a condition or practice brought to our attention liy one of the District Deputy Grand Masters, that some of the lodges, did not or do not give the lectures in the several degrees to the candidates, offering to them as has been frequently done the familiar phrase "Owing to the lateness of the hour, e t c . " : this condition is contrary to oiu" ritual, laws and rules, and must be remedied, in tlie interest of the craft and benefit of our initiates; we bring tills to the attention of the District Deputy Grand Masters, and the sitting Worshipful Masters without any further comment. Brother E. T. D. CHAMBERS, Past Grand Master, presented his fortieth consecutive report as Chairman of the Committee on Correspondence. The writer wonders whether his record is equalled by any other member. This may give opportunity for securing some interesting information concerning the long and faithful service of the writers of this important report. Our 1926 Proceedings are covered in his review, which is interesting throughout. WALTER C . HAGAR, M . ' . W . ' . Grand Master, Montreal. W. W. WILLIAMSON, R . ' . W.-. Grand Secretary, Montreal. E. T. D. CHAMBERS, P . - . G . - . M . ' . , Correspondent. Next Annual, Montreal, February 8, 1928.
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CORRESPONDENCE—QUEENSLAND.
137
QUEENSLAND —1926. Lodges, 334; members, 21,000; n e t gain, 1,000. ' ^ A Special Communication was held in Brisbane, A u g u s t 12, 1925, a n d we a r e pleased t o q u o t e t h e following words from t h e G r a n d Master's address: It is just possible that in our Masonic lives we may forget the elementals, and I would like to leave with you this evening one or two thoughts that are given to us at t h e very threshold of our entry into Freemasonry. We are asked to declare that no mercenary or unworthy motive prompts us to become Freemasons, and we of course by this infer that no such unworthy objects prompt us to continue as Masons. At the same time, we declare that it is our desire to render ourselves more extensively serviceable to our fellowmen. This is the big thought that I would like to see translated into action throughout the Masonic world, of Queensland during my term of office. If we endeavour to practice this thoroughly, if we endeavour to live up to this principle, and to live up to any ideal that is worthy of being an Ideal at all, which is not an easy matter, it follows that there must be brotherly love, and brotherly love also denotes relief, and it is impossible that these two should be dissociated from truth, either in action or in thought. This central thought of service to fellow men I would like you all to carry away with you from this meeting this evening, and endeavour during my year of office to bring acti vely into the life of Freemasonry in the many lodges of this great State. B r o t h e r J . C. R O B E R T S , o u r G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e , was present a t t h i s Communication, a n d w i t h others w a s formally received a n d extended a welcome. A Q u a r t e r l y C o m m u n i c a t i o n was held i n Brisbane, September 2, 1925, a t which t h e report of t h e B o a r d of General Purposes was presented. We find n o t h i n g of a general n a t u r e on which t o comment. At t h e Quarterly C o m m u n i c a t i o n held on December 2, 1925, t h e following was a d o p t e d : The United Grand Lodge of Queensland declares its continued loyalty and submission to His Majesty the King as Sovereign of the British Empire, and respectfully desires to express its profound sorrow and heartfelt sympathy with His Majesty the King, Her Majesty the Queen, His Boyal Highness the Prince of Wales, and all the members of the Eoyal Family in the hour of their tribiilation and in the loss which they and the British Empire have suffered In the passing to rest of her late Majesty Queen ALEXANDRA. At t h e Quarterly C o m m u n i c a t i o n of J u n e 2,1926, M.'. W.'. B r o t h e r C H A R L E S STUMM, K . C , P.-. G.-. M.-., was elected G r a n d Master. C H A R L E S STUMM, M . - . W . - . G r a n d
Master.
CHARLES H . HARLEY, R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary, Brisbane.
138
CORRESPONDENCE—RHODE
ISLAND.
February.
RHODE ISLAND-1927. Lodges, 40; members, 18,291; net gain, 232. At a Special Communication held on October 13, .1926, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the Masonic Building at Riverpoint, we note with interest the following words from Past Grand Master WILBUR A. SCOTT: Masonry is not a religious organization, in the sense that it has a creed or is the creature of a church. And yet, the foundation upon which the cornerstone of Freemasonry is erected is the great and fundamental truth, that GOD is in fact the Father of us all and that we are his children,—The Fatherhood of GOD and the Brotherhood of Man. The strength of Masonry lies in that simple declaration of faith, which permits men of every race, and creed and opinion to gather around its Altars, which allows absolute liberty of conscience and guarantees the equality of men before Goo and before the law. Masonry is not a political organization, in the sense that it interests itself In partisan politics. Wliatever may be said of other groups or organizations of men, it can never be truthfully said of Masonry that there is such a thing as " t h e Masonic Vote"—a vote that can be delivered. There is, thank GOD, such a tiling as the vote of a Mason—of one who has been enjoined to be exemplary in the discharge of his civic duties, to maintain the peace and good order of society, and to pay obedience to the laws of the State and Nation under whose jurisdiction he lives. Masonry is not a beneficial organization in the sense that it guarantees to any man material benefits. I t frowns upon and rejects from its membership, the applicant whose motives are selfish and mercenary. And yet it is in very fact the greatest beneficial and charitable organization in existence today. The world at large knows and api)reciates the fact that millions of dollars are annually expended in our organized charitable enterprises. Ijut it does not know and can never fully appreciate the magnitude of our benevolences. Masonry is not a secret organization. I t has, it is true, its signs, its grips, its ritual, but they predicate no secret policies or teachings. Its principles and tenets are known and published wherever Masons meet, and the Craftsman is willing and glad that all the world shall know of his preferment. The real strength of Masonry lies not in its secrecy, but in its simple faith in GOD,—in its friendsliips and its fellowsliips. The real secret of Freemasonry is its spirit,—the ability to understand and to apply its philosophy. It is only becatise we believe that there can be no Brotherhood of Man without Manhood in the Brother that we restrict our Masonic feliowsliip to those only those whose manhood and character have met the test of Masonry's imerrlng square. Such is the nature of our institution, its faith, its philosophy and its spirit And as we meet today with the sole and firm resolve to perpetuate and strengthen its power and influence, is it not fitting that we pause and ask oiu'selves if we have kept the faith—are we truly builders in the Temple. The Semi-Annual Communication was held in Providence, November 15, 1926. WILLIAM L . SWEET, M . ' . W.-. Grand Master. The Grand Master first announced the death of Brother BYRON A. SMITH, J R . , their Senior Grand Steward. Next followed the report of the Committee on Jurisprudence, dealing with the various subjects which had.been presented at their Grand Lodge at the last Annual Communication.
1927-28.
CoBBESPONDENCE—SASKATCHEWAN.
139
The writer is unable to do these minutes justice as it would require a reference to the 1926 Proceedings. We therefore pass on to the Annual Communication held in Providence on May 16, 1927. At this Communication the Grand Master submitted his usual address, from which we quote the following under the head of " I n Memoriam," concerning the death of their Grand Secretary, R.'.W.\ Brother SYLVESTER PENROSE WILLIAMS, which occurred - on December 18, 1926: Right Worshipful Brother WILLIAMS served the fraternity with "freedom, fervency and zeal" for a period of nearly 54 years. He was elected Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Bhode Island on May 20, 1901, and was re-elected each year up to the time of his death, serving a period of 25 years and 7 months. During all these years he was efficient and faithful to the trust reposed in liim by his brethren. His knowledge of the laws and customs of the Craft was great and his advice and counsel was frequently sought by the officers of subordinate Lodges to whom he gave authoritative information on all occasions. Through the report of the Committee on Correspondence the Grand Lodge extended fraternal recognition to the Grand Lodge of Panama, subject, however, to the approval of the Grand Master. We are at a loss to understand why the Grand Lodge did not do the approving itself. There is no Report on Correspondence. WiNFiELD S. SOLOMON, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, Providence. HAROLD L . MCAUSLAN, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, Providence.
SASKATCHEWAN —1927. Lodges, 187; members, 13,606; net gain, 515. Moose Jaw, June 15, 1927. W. J. SMITH, M.-.W.-.Grand Master. M . ' . W.*. Brother W. M. MARTIN, Our Grand Representative, was present. In presenting his annual address the Grand Master had the following to say: Remembering, as I ever \vill, the crowning honor of my life which was bestowed upon me when you elected me to the Grand East, my first duty is to make such acknowledgment of this trust as the feeble language a t my command will permit. Probaljly I can best do this by saying that the brethren of this Grand Jurisdiction have made it possible for me to render some little service that otherwise I could never have rendered, and unto the end I shall not forget the confidence you reposed in me, and continue to acknowledge my indebtedness to you. jSTor am I forgetful that the gratitude of all is due the Giver of All for the manifold Ijlessings He has bestowed upon us during the past year. The year has abounded with peace and plenty. Throughout the Jurisdiction harmony lias prevailed to a degree not sxirpassed, I believe, in oiir history as a Grand Lodge, so that one is led to entertain the hope that the benign Spirit of Masonic brotherhood is exerting an ever increasing influence on the lives of our members; with grateful hearts may we all return thanks to the Great Arclutect of the Universe for His gifts.
140
CORRESPONDENCE—SASKATCHEWAN.
February,
The Grand Master ruled t h a t a candidate must not be received from the preparation room in which other candidates are waiting. He ruled t h a t a lodge could not close in short form or in other words we presume their Ritual provides for no such performance as a short form for opening or closing. He was called upon to rule that a deaf person could not be received into the Fraternity. One of their lodges was requested to receive a petition from one who had been a Mason in a clandestine lodge in British Columbia. The Grand Master rules as follows, and which we consider quite in keeping with the dignity of the Fraternity: We cannot afford to jeopardise the harmony that exists between these two Grand Jurisdictions by sanctioning the acceptance of tiiis application in view of all the circumstances revealed by the letter of the Grand Secretary of the Grand I^odge of British Columbia. Under the head of "Our Responsibility as Citizens" he spoke as follows: Events are occurring in our Province, especially in some of our larger cities, wliich appear to call for a statement of policy. Every initiate is warned as to his duty to Ixis neighbour in no uncertain language. " T h a t he should act with him on the square, render him every icind office which justice or mercy niay require, relieve Ills distress, sooth his afflictions and do unto liim as he would wish should be done unto himself." That " a s a citizen of the world he should be exemplary in the discharge of his civil duty by never proposing or at all countenancing any act that may have a tendency to subvert the peace and good order of Society" and so on in language familiar to you all. Brethren, a society composed of men who have this standard of citizenship set before them, a society which has ever proudly boasted of its tolera;nce with regard to the religious and political convictions of others, cannot, must not, allow its name to be used as countenancing or being in sympathy with lawlessness, coercion, or restraint of the liberties, rights and privileges of other citizens. Wrongs m a y and do exist. We have no quarter for law breakers, and no respect for organized wrong doing and workers of evil, but we must not aUow our institution to have its fair name Identified as sympathizing with any organization which seeks to right wrongs, real or imaginary, by violence, intimidation or other methods not open to the light of day. You hav^e individually as citizens in our democracy the means of cleaning up evil and righting wrongs in a legitimate way, by the intelligent exercise of your franchise, and we have no quarrel with peaceful, law abiding, citizens who worship GOD at a different altar from that at which most of us bow. We take pleasure in quoting the following from his excellent conclusion : Sixty years ago men lived in a dogmatic age. Today we live in an age of speculation. Truly it maj' be said of our day " a l l old things have passed away, behold all things have become new". Said an eminent psychologist recently: "Today we are witnessing the cumulative effect of past religious criticism, of scientjiflc knowledge and of the wide-spread higher education, all of which have emphasized the material and objective reaUtles and disregard the subjective and personal needs of the individual. The function of faith and of the symbol by which man has raised himself and answered his questions is largely discredited along with his religious beliefs and creeds. A sterile intellectualism entirely occupied with tangible facts and sense objects, has replaced the rich emotional
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—SASKATCHEWAN.
141
and spiritual interest of the past generations, and the realm of the spirit where formerly great conflicts were consciously waged, is now neglected and ignored." The extent to which it is the prerogative of a Grand Masier or of the Craft as an Institution to dogmatize on these matters is very debatable. I t is a wise policy to leave such matters to the individual to conscientiously work out for himself. Might I be permitted to venture thus far, however, in the light of an admitted tendency of our times to discard much that in the past was considered essential and quote the great apostle to the Gentiles and say: " P r o v e all things; hold fast that which is good." And are we not justified in drawing conclusions as to the effect of the modern trend of thought on the life and actions of men in general as tending to affect our own usefulness as ah Institution? May we not even go so far as to say that the " Thou Shalt N o t " of the decalogue has lost much of its restraining influence on the lives of men, and to ask ourselves how such a tendency is likely to affect the Craft in general. As an example of the result of modern conceptions of those things which in the last generation were considered as sacred and inviolable, take the present day regard or disregard for the sanctity of the oath. Ask any aged and experienced jurist if modern spiritual conceptions have tended to cause men to respect their oath and I fear his answer must be that whatever may have been the restraining influences in ages which were more dogmatic than today, now the judge must almost invariably try to arrive a t the truth not by what t h e witness says but by his demeanor, the surrounding circumstances and the general probabilities in similar cases. To an appalling extent there is no regard whatever for the sanctity of the Oath, and let us never forget that t h e Oath, the Oath that is regarded as Sacred, is not only a fundamental bond of our institution; it is the only bond of civilization. Masons as a class are not men who regard the Oath lightly, but Masons might well set as their standard an ideal which would ultimately result in our being able to say that where you found a Mason you found a man who feared GOD and never swore falsely. Brethren, the general lack of spiritual restraint in this day is resulting In a general laxity of conduct inconsistent with the standards of intellectval development of our times. Masonry suffers more from the actions of unrestrained Masons in this age of tolerance than it ever did from any or all its enemies in any age of dogmatism. Men forget that membership in an institution founded on sublime principles and propagating holy ideals calls for a standard of life and conduct consistent with those principles and that every time they indulge in the questionable they drag not only themselves down, but they discredit the Institution.
There is no Report on Correspondence. WILLIAM M . MARTIN, M . - . W . ' . Grand Master, Regina. W. B . TATE, R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary, Regina.
Next Annual, Saskatchewan, June 20, 1928.
142
CORRESPONDENCE—SCOTLAND.
February
SCOTLAND —1927. Lodges, 926; members, 260,000; net gain. A Quarterly Communication was held in Edinburgh, February 3, 1927. At this Communication what is termed as the Grand Committee were selected. There were twenty brethren nominated, the first sixteen receiving the highest vote were declared elected. We notice the Proceedings contain an account of a gift of a diamond brooch as a wedding present to the daugther of the M.\W.'. Grand Master. The Grand Master expressed his appreciation of the gift to his daughter, which was acknowledged by her in a letter to the Grand Secretary. At this Communication the Grand Officers were installed. At the Quarterly Communication of May 4, 1927, the Grand Master Mason first expressed his appreciation and thanks for the beautiful wedding gift to his daughter. His remarks were received with applause. He next extended a welcome to Brother The Rt. Honourable T H E EARL OF STAIR, who had been on a tour abroad for sometime.
We
take pleasure in quoting the following from his remarks: I know that he has done most excellent work abroad for the Craft, and I am going to ask him to give us a short account of the various visits he paid to the Lodges overseas. One of the most pleasing duties I shall have to perform during the time I shall be in this Chair now devolves upon me. On your behalf I have to present our Immediate Past Grand Master with a Past Grand Master's jewel—(applause),—• and, in doing so, I feel that we owe him a very great debt of gratitude for the way in which he ruled over Grand Lodge during his term as Grand Master Mason. I know that he will very much value this beautiful jewel, and I hope that when he wears it he will think of his old friends in Grand Lodge. (Applause.)
In response to the welcome, and in acknowledging the gift, among other things The EARL OF STAIR had the following to say: The jewel will be one of my greatest treasures, and AVIU be treasured by my descendants for many years to come. I hope that I shall have the honour and pleasure of wearing it in the presence of as many friends as I have had during the past two years. (Applause.) I should like to thank you too. Most Worshipful Grand Master Mason and brethren all, for your congratulations on the high ofBco that has been conferred upon me. I t has become almost a habit for His Majesty to confer this honour upon the Past Grand Master Mason of Scotland. (Laughter.) I hope that I may be fortunate enough to carry out the duties as eflficlently as my predecessors have done in the Chair of Grand Lodge and In that high office. The Rt. Hon. T H E LORD BLYTHSWOOD, M.-. W.-. Grand Master. THOMAS G . WINNING, R . - . W . ' . Grand Secretary, Edinburgh.
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—SOUTH
AUSTRALIA.
143
SOUTH AUSTRALIA —1927. Lodges, 133; members, 13,093; net gain, 635. Half Yearly Communication held at North Terra:ce, October 20, 1926. On account of the illness of the Grand Master his address was read by the Acting Deputy Grand Master. The first words expressing his regret at not being able to attend were as follows: Brethren,—^I much regret that my medical adviser thinks it unsafe for me to be present with you tonight, but I am enabled by the courtesy and kindness of the Acting Deputy Grand Master to convey to you what on this occasion I wish to say.
Referring to the brethren who had passed away during the year he had the following to say: It is with sadness that I refer to those faithful Craftsmen who since the April Communication have gone to their long liome, but the feeling of sadness it not untinged "with pride, pride that the Order has kept within its ranks men whose lives are signal examples of fidelity to its principles.
Referring to the Board of General Purposes he had the following to say: You will'observe that the membership of the Lodges under the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge has increased from 12,458 on June 30th, 1925, to 13,093 on June 30th, 1926, an increase of 635 for the year. It is satisfactory to know that our members now exceed 13,000, but the same paragraph discloses a state of affairs which is far from satisfactory and which must give every Treemason food for thought. That increase, 635, is the net increase, and is obtained by deducting from the total additions to the Lodge Registers, the total number of names removed from them. The total additions were no less than 1,385, but 750 names were removed. That is the figure, brethren—the 750 names removed—that cannot be regarded as satisfactory. What are the causes operating to produce that result? First let me say that this figure 750 is not quite so bad at first sight as it would seem to be. The gross Increase of 1,385 is made up, partly of the names of brethren who have joined from some other Lodge in the Jurisdiction—308 thus joined—and no doubt the majority of these ceased to remain members of the Lodges from which they joined; but suppose that the whole 308 are thus accounted for, still, 422 names were removed and lost as members of the Craft within one year. Two causes, which may be alternatives or perhaps act together, suggest themselves to me. Are we making Masons of the right material? Are we making the best use of the material when we have acquired it? I t is of little profit to Freemasonry to Initiate as Candidates, men who after two or three years abandon the Craft. Are we making the best use of the material when we have acquired it? Do we make the best use of meetings for refreshment. I recall the days when I held no oflBce in my Lodge and the days when I made visits to other Lodges. What was the lot of the members who held no oflBce? The majority listened in silence to the Ceremonies. They went to refreshment and listened, without any real opportunity for conversation, to speeches from the time the W.'.M.'. proposed the first toast until they drank in silence the last toast— the toast that ends the evening. And that was called, and is called, the"Festive" Board; and yet, brethren, I have seen it suggested that these meetings for re-
144
CoBRESPONDENCE—SOUTH
AUSTRALIA.
February,
freshment should be made to serve as an opportunity to instruct the brethren on matters Masonic by Addresses and Lecturettes. I t Is not for me to dictate to. Worshipful Masters iij what manner meetings for refreshment shall be conducted but I would Uke to express my own personal opinion that greater opportunity should be given for social intercourse between the brethren. In the atmosphere of brotherliness which there exists friendships may be formed and when formed cemented indissolubly.
At the Annual Communication of April 20, 1927, M.'.W.'.Brother The Hon. Mr. JUSTICE THOMAS SLANEY POOLE was elected Grand
Master, and we are pleased to quote the following words from his message: Brethren, t h e R ..W.-. Deputy Grand Master with that readiness to assist me, which he has always shown has, since I am prevented by indisposition from being with you to-night, promised to deliver to you a message from me, but before I can give that message I should like to correct a statement which has appeared in t h e Press to the effect that I attended the Ceremony wMch was carried out last night, the Dedication of the Way Lodge Room, against my medical adviser's orders. That is not so. I neither did that, nor did I ever say It was so. T h a t I am forced from attending this Communication is t o me a source of keen disappointment, for to-night is the central night of a series of ceremonies which synchronises with the attainment of an object for which for many years, and especially recent years, all members of the Craft have been striving t o attain. At last the Grand Lodge can point to a completed Masonic bxiildlng worthy to form a centre from which "Masonic Light" may radiate throughout the whole jurisdiction.
A magnificent Temple has just been completed at North Terrace and in conformity with Masonic custom it was dedicated in full ceremonial form. We note with much feeling the death of Grand Master POOLE which occured May 2, 1927. From the memorial we quote the following: Those who were privileged to be on terms of intimacy with our late Grand Master will readily agree that he put this precept into practice, with the result that he attained to one of the highest positions to wMch a man might aspire. The adoption of the precept set forth, if too Uterally followed, would probably have the effect of restricting the outlook, but, happily, so far as our late Brother Is concerned, this likely contingency did not materialise. There was nothing t h a t was either distorted or narrow in his outlook on life, but on the contrary his views were marked by toleration, Sympathy, insight, and an abundant vein of wholesome commonsense. His labours as Master of Lodge St. Alban, and as an active member and President of the Masters* and Wardens' Association, fully attest his devotion to our Craft, and yield convincing proof that he was no theorist, but one who lived Masonry, and his views as disclosed in his various studies are full of thought and rich with suggestions, and are the obvious outcome of a brain that was in complete harmony with the aspirations and basic principles of Craft Masonry. Our late Brother's creed was to work and not to dream. R. L. S. tells us that labour is t h e only success, and this principle was a dominant factor In our late Grand Master's life almost to its closing hours. His active participation in the dedication of the Way Lodge Room, could only be regarded as the triumph of mind over matter. Despite his great physical weakness on the occasion referred to, he had clearly made up his mind to discharge an important
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—SOUTH
CAROLINA:
145
duty attached to his high office, and for the time being, compel the body t o be his servant. He utilised his zeal, earnestness, and indefatigable ability in promoting the welfare of the Craft. He seemed to declare that—• "Life is not long enough to let me work As I desire; but all the years will hold Shall I pour forth." The memorial is accompanied by a likeness of this distinguished Mason and one of the Judges of His Majesty's Supreme Court. We imagine the loss of this distinguished Craftsman will be keenly felt by the brethren in t h a t Grand Jurisdiction and we here extend to them our most sincere sympathy. CHARLES R . J. GLOVER, R.-. W . \ Grand Secretary, Adelaide.
SOUTH CAROLINA—1927. Lodges, 293; members, 29,753; net gain, 250. Charleston, March 9, 1927. CHARLTON DURANT, M.-. W.-. Grand Master. Kansas was not honored with a Grand Representative at this Communication. We quote the following from the Grand Master's address: The Masonry of to-day has a great privilege and a tremendous responsibility. In a time when laws are flouted, conventions ignored and all the old moral and religious ideals are being denied, Masonry should be a great steadying and conserving force teaching men to fear GOD and keep His commandments. One atheistic organization with five million dollars in its treasury is endeavoring to establish societies for the spread of atheism in the higher institutions of learning of our Country, and by tracts and otherwise is denying the primary tenet of Masonry—that there is a GOD. The din of the conflict between alcohol and decency fllls our ears. During the last few years the fall of great business institutions caused by adverse flnancial conditions have hurt business, but far greater damage has been caused by the dishonesty of trusted men. While comparatively few, yet such occurrences are entirely too common. Masonry has a mission for such a time as this, a message for men. The Lodge should stand in each community as the meeting place of honest, fearless, GOD-fearing men, striving for righteousness. The possession of such principles and motives has been the cause of its survival through the centuries, and. while possessing them, it will remain immortal. Under the head of " S t a t e of the Craft" he offered the following: An effort is still being made to use Masonry to support political ends, such as the creation of a new cabinet position and the formation of a Federal Department of Education; b u t I am glad to say it seems to be without effect In this jurisdiction. I t is unfortunate for any man to appeal to Masons as such to endeavor to influence legislation, and it is sheer impertinence for any one to urge legislation as the representative of Masons, for no officer and even no Grand Lodge can speak politically for any individual Mason. This is a fundamental of Masonry and should not be ignored or forgotten.
146
CORRESPONDENCE—SOUTH
CAROLINA.
Februarj',
The Grand Secretary submits an extremely brief report covering less than one page. We take exception to his statistics, however, as he shows the membership for 1925 to be 29,530, while the Annual Proceedings foi- t h a t year showed the membership t o be 29)503. From the report of the Educational Director we quote the following interesting subject: Arranging an educational meeting need not be a complicated or difflcult affair. Ordinarily, these meetings should be simple and informal, a number of features readily suggest themselves. The first is that the meeting should be opened with prayer. Should no one present be able to make an extemporaneous prayer, use a prayer from the Ahiman Kezon. Then the Master, or the local secretary might present the presiding officer, who will make a few opening remarks, welcome the audience and state the object of the meeting. A song, or some music might be introduced with good cfTect, and then some brother might give a sliort sketch of tlie liistory of the lodge, or of some of the prominent men who are, or have been its members. The cliairman then introduces the principal speaker, or calls on some brother to make the Introduction, Tin's speaker may be selected by the local committee, or suggested by the Educational Committee, if such suggestion be reciuired. Should the speaker ask, the local committee might suggest a topic for discussion. The lodge might desire a lecture toucliing the antiquity of Masonry, or a discussion of its symbolism, or a discourse upon the great teacliings of Masonry. Suggestions will be welcomed by the speaker, though he should be left free to select his own theme. Music might be introduced at the close of the address, when opportunity might be given for discussion or words of appreciation. The meeting could then be ended with a few words from the presiding officer, followed by the announcement that the meeting was closed. A simple program should occupy about an hour and a half. On special occasions, a more elaborate program can be developed. Special music might be introduced, an entertainment feature miglit be provided, such as a humorous selection or a witty speech, care being taken to see that such a feature is good. Eefresliments might be provided, a fish stew or a barbecue on an occasion of ah annual celebration, or where the public is invited. On such occasions, two, or even three speakers may be used, and sucli other features as will insure an enjoyable as well as a profitable occasion. The local committee must not lose sight of the main object—whicli is instruction, enlightenment, and should not let novel or entertaining features defeat that end. The regular meeting—and tliese educational meetings should be held regularly—should consist largely of instructive addresses and talks, with no "refreshments"—by which is meant banquets, dinners, collations, or sandwiches and coffee. This adjunct may be resorted to occasionally, but generally it should be reserved for the more formal occasions and celebrations. M.-. W.-. Brother JAMES L. MICHIE again submits the Report on Correspondence, which as usual, is up to its high standard. Kansas comes in for a full share in his excellent report. Brother MICHIE is somewhat like the writer of this report. He believes anything worth doing is worth doing well, and in accordance with this policy he covers practically all the important matters which came before our Grand Lodge at that time. CHARLTON DURANT, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, Manning. O; FRANK HART, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, Columbia. JAMES L . MICHIE, P.". G.-. M.-. , Correspondent, Darlington. Next Annual, Charleston, March 7, 1928.
1927-28.
COBBESPONDENCE—SOUTH
DAKOTA.
147
SOUTH DAKOTA —1927. Lodges, 176; m e m b e r s , 19,683; n e t gain, 5 1 . Aberdeen, J u n e 14, 1927.
L E O N A R D M . SIMONS, M . - . W . - .
Grand
Master. A t t h i s C o m m u n i c a t i o n t h e y were h o n o r e d with t h e presence of M.'. W.-. B r o t h e r J O H N P I C K A R D , G r a n d M a s t e r of t h e G r a n d L o d g e of Missouri; M.-.W.'. B r o t h e r F R A N K C . F A L K B N S T E I N , G r a n d M a s t e r of t h e G r a n d Lodge of N o r t h D a k o t a , a n d B r o t h e r W A L T E R L . S T O C K W E L L , G r a n d Secretary of t h e l a t t e r jurisdiction. F r o m t h e address of t h e G r a n d M a s t e r we t a k e pleasure i n q u o t i n g t h e following: The life of the Pioneer is fraught with many trials and difficulties. I t takes strong men to fill the place and accomplish the task. The territory was one of great distances, the means of travel limited, accommodations meager and finances scarce. Yet in spite of all of the difficulties which confront the settler in a new territory, zeal for Masonry brought about the establishment of lodges in the various settlements and it was not long after that these lodges formed the Grand Lodge of the Territory which continued until the admission of the Territory into the Union and its division into the States of North and South Dakota. At this time there was established the two jurisdictions. From this early beginning the institution of Masonry has kept pace with the growth of the State and its influence has been cast for those things which make up the essentials for a growing state in order that its future may be firmly established in the Union of the States. We may well be proud of our place in the Union. 'We have taken a forward step in the cause of education, public health, suppression of crime, construction of highways and means of transportation and the general upbuilding which has come to the nation as a whole in the last decade. With all of these movements Masonry has been identified and its membership has been in the forefront in the pioneer work and we may well take stock as to our present position as a Grand Lodge within the borders of our fair state. We are gathered here at this annual communication in order that we may fraternalize and render an account of the work accomplished in the last twelve months. U n d e r " N e c r o l o g y " t h e G r a n d M a s t e r refers t o t h e d e a t h of t h e i r distinguished M.". W.". B r o t h e r E D G A R D . B R O O K M A N .
Speaking of t h e i r faithful G r a n d S e c r e t a r y t h e G r a n d M a s t e r h a d t h e following t o s a y : I realize more than ever that the loyal service and devotion given t o the order by our Worthy Brother GEORGE can never be overestimated. He has lightened the burden and has been of good counsel at all times and Masonry of South Dakota can never realize the service it has received from the loyal and faithful devotion of its Grand Secretary Brother GEOKGE. " Some seek reward in fame, others in the love of service."
The Grand Secretary's report, as might be expected, was up to the standard, including his concise and well arranged summary of membership. Brother JAMES B. VAUGHN, our Grand Representative, was in
attendance.
148
CORRESPONDENCE—SOUTH
DAKOTA.
February'
The Grand Orator delivered a most interesting talk and from it we are pleased to quote the following: The masonic fraternity represents so much by way of possibility that it Is our heritage to make use of every opportunity, and thus increase the chances of success. I t lies within t h e hands of t h e group to malse anyting they choose, consequently we must maintain the ideal—-"Faith in the Future." We must live to make people human, show mercy and respect for others. Only those men are free who have knowledge of t h e truth. We must have faith and hope in civilization. As one philospher put it, " t h e Hope of humanity lies in educating our boys and girls". It is essential that it be a program of fitting each individual into t h e society i n which he lives. This is necessary that we may become the Society of Tomorrow. Something Is needed to give color and significance and if we will, we can furnish the incentive so that the American liome again comes into Its own, a n d our churches quit the pugnacity over creed and ritual, and then it will be well with us. There have been many authors and writers who have ably expressed beautiful ideals, for instance, MATTHEW AHNOLD in bis essay ".Sweetness and Light", but it must be brought over into life itself. I t is our task to make the best thought prevail. In our modern world we see strife and unrest and if we will turn a listening ear, we can hear t h a t unrest is not so. much physical but moral; as an example, a thinker who in the industrial world is tied to a fool-proof machine is a victim. It is not personal indulgence we want but spiritual ideals we need. The hands of civilization must not be turned back. Dominant purposes or ideals must enable man to see life worth while and realize his ambitions. Faith and service will overcome provincialism." We are debtors to men of all races and creeds, t o the rich and the poor, to men of all ages and conditions. Where should we begin? Everyone here, after a moment's thought, will realize that the answer is—in the home. There can be no substitute for the home. Upon the home life depends both church and state. In fact, every phase of our social order. After the home, we branch out in ever widening circles in, our duties to fellowmen, and we can not afford to ignore the existing relationships. A proposed amendment to their laws was offered by Past Grand Master GEORGE V. AYRES, for the purpose of issuing certificates of good standing in order t h a t a member might transfer his membership to another lodge without first taking out a dimit. Having had considerable experience along this line for several years we realize just how much trouble there is ahead for the Grand Secretary, to say nothing of the damage which will result to their records. If a man is honorable and upright h e need have no fear of being rejected if he desires to change his membership. We may be a little old fashioned in this particular, but t h a t is the kind of Masonry we believe in and not the so-called modern idea of revamping the whole Institution. Brother ARTHUR H . TUFTS submitted the Report on Correspondence, including a review of our 1926 Proceedings. He refers to the writer in most complimentary terms and among other things he had the following to say: The Correspondence Report is again by Brother ALBERT K . WILSON, Grand Secretary and Chairman of Correspondence Committee. We do not see how he finds time outside his work as Grand Secretary to write a correspondence report, much less such an excellent report as he puts out. He must work into the "wee sma' hours". South Dakota is given generous notice.
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—TASMANIA.
149
In reply to the above the writer will say that he not only writes the Report on Correspondence in the Grand Lodge, but likewise in the Grand Chapter, Grand Council, and Grand Commandery, and is Grand Secretary and Grand Recorder of all four bodies. He does not now and never has worked in the "wee sma' hours" but retires regularly about nine o'clock every night except when attending some Masonic meeting, and invariably rises at six in the morning and enjoys three square meals a day. His office closes promptly at five o'clock and no evening engagements are made under any circumstances. He reviews the Proceedings for the Report on Correspondence in the evening before time to retire and sometimes reviews on or two in the morning before going to his office. In this way he accomplishes that part of the work without much hardship. He has been in active Masonic work for more than forty-flve years, having undertaken this work when only twenty-one years of age. He is therefore not " way up " in the seventies as remarked by our mutual friend GEORGE K I E S of
Connecticut when referring to the Kansas Correspondent. GEORGE 0 . GOODMAN, M.-.W.". Grand Master, Millbank. GEORGE A. PETTIGREW, R.-. W . ' . Grand Secretary, Sioux Falls. ARTHUR H . TUFTS, Correspondent, Sioux Falls.
Next Annual, Sioux Falls, June 12, 1928.
TASMANIA —1926. Lodges, 4 1 ; m e m b e r s , 3,542; n e t gain, 13. A Special C o m m u n i c a t i o n w a s held a t F i n g a l , April 17, 1926. A splendid oration was delivered a t t h i s C o m m u n i c a t i o n b y t h e Acting G r a n d Chaplain, B r o t h e r R e v e r e n d F . J . M C C A B E , a n d we t a k e p l e a s u r e in q u o t i n g t h e following: A good Mason should carry the principles of his Order into his own home. I would speak especially of the domestic virtues of Temperance, Soberness, and Chastity. These are virtues wliich have ever been highly prized among Masons. Now you will agree with me that we are passing through an age of moral unrest. No doubt the Great War was a contributing factor. There has grown up a freedom in the relations of the sexes, and a general moral laxity that is most disturbing, and the very foundations of civilisation are being undermined by the Immorality and impurity which are only too prevalent. Divorce, too, is increasing in alarming proportions. I would appeal to all Masons that they strive to their utmost power to uphold the sanctities of the Home, and to preserve the youth of our nation from contamination. And in the wider life of your community and country, what should be your attitude as Masons? We are all bitterly deploring the fact that Tasmania is passing through a period of depression. Money is " t i g h t " ; work is scarce; as a State we are heavily in debt. In consequence, we are in the unhappy position of seeing the departure to other States of some of our finest people. Someone has said that Tasmania's chief export is young men, and this statement is only too true. Now, as Masons, we should be of more service to the community.
150
CORRESPONDENCE—TASMANIA.
February,
Why blame our municipal administration, our civic administration, if we are holding back our contribution to the community, and to the State? There is too much of t h e spirit of "leave i t to the other fellow." This spirit of " d o nothing" means that often the best brains in the community are n o t being used in its service. Let us be up and doing, brethren. I firmly believe that the Most High helps those that help themselves. Where there is service that may be given, where there is work that may be done, who may do it better than a true Mason! There is a critical spirit among us, too, which is utterly alien from Masonic principles. Tliis destructive criticism is all for breaking down—not for building up. Now, Masons should be Builders, whether operative of speculative. I t is comparatively easy to break down—to destroy; it is much harder to build up. If every Mason in the Jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Tasmania would put liis shoulder to the wheel, whether it be in municipal or civic affairs, or in governmental affairs, I venture to say that Tasmania, as a State, would soon be put back on the rails again, and would proceed on its way to prosperity and success, both as a State-of the Commonwealth, and as a part of the great British Empire.
The half-yearly Communication was held August 28, 1926, at Hobart.
CLAUDE E . W . JAMES, M.-. W.-. Grand Master.
The Board of General Purposes submitted their report for the half year ending June, and from it we quote the following which will be of interest t o our readers: The Board has made arrangements with the British and Foreign Bible Society, -through their Launceston Branch, to stock Bibles suitable for presentation to candidates by Lodges in the Jurisdiction. The Bibles will have the Seal of the Grand Lodge of Tasmania embossed on the cover, and will be sold by the Society to. Lodges requiring same.
We are pleased to note that our Grand Representative was present at this Communication. The brethren were not unmindful of the faithful services rendered by their Past Grand Master, M.-.W.-. Brother HENRY L . D ' E M D E N ,
as noted from the following taken from the Proceedings: On behalf of the Brethren of every Lodge in the Jurisdiction, the Grand Master made a suitable presentation to the Immediate Past Grand Master (M ..W.'. Bro. HENRY L. D ' E M D E N ) , who had retired from the Offlce of Grand Alaster of Tasmania six months ago. The presentation took the form of an illuminated Address, enclosed in a Tasmanian Oak Casket, together with a cheque, and a Dinner Service for Mrs. D'EMDEN. The Grand Master, in making the presentation, said that si.K months ago M .'.AV.'. Bro. D ' E M D E N vacated the Offlce of Grand Master, after five years' splendid service to the cause of Freemasonry, and a general desire was felt by the Freemasons of Tasmania that he should not retire without some tangible expression of our deep appreciation of the excellent work carried out by him, not only as Grand Master, but for many years previous as an active Officer of Grand Lodge. During the Ave years of M.'.W.'. Bro. D ' E M D E N ' S reign, there had been a record growth in the number of members, and Lodges, in the Jurisdiction. M.'.W.'. Bro. JAMES said i t gave him great pleasure to be the mouthpiece of the Freemasons throughout the Jurisdiction of Tasmania to present M.'. W.-. Bro. HENRY L . D'EMDEN* wnth the Address, which, perhaps, conveyed more than he could say, together with the beautiful casket, and cheque, as some slight token of the esteem in which Bro. D ' E M D E N is held, and in appreciation of the good work he rendered as Grand Master.
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—TASMANIA.
151
M/.W.'. Bro. D'EMDEN, who was received with applause, said he was comple.tely talien by surprise, and said he did not think he deserved all the good things that had been said of him. He appreciated very much the handsome gifts that had been presented, and on behalf of Mrs. D'EMDEN thanked the Brethren very kindly for their presentation. H e assured the Brethren the five years he had spent as their Grand Master had been the happiest of his Masonic career in Tasmania. The illuminated Address was beautifully engrossed by Wor. Bro. L. W. MEECH, and the handsomely carved Tasmanian Oak Casket was made by Messrs. W. COOGAN and Co.
In connection with this we find in the Proceedings a picture of the engrossed address and the oak casliet to which reference is made in the above. CLAUDE E . W . JAMBS, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Hobart. W. H. StKUTT, R.\W.'. Grand Secretary, Hobart.
TASMANIA —1927. Lodges, 4 1 ; members, 3,651; net gain, 109. Launceston, February 26, 1927. CLAUDE E . W . JAMES, M.-.W.-. Grand Master. From the report of the Board of General Purposes we quote the following: I t is with regret I have to report the death on 24th October of B.-.W.-. Bro. J. F . STUMP, P. D. G. M., who, for many years, was a member of this Board, and whose valuable assistance a t its meetings has been greatly appreciated by the Members and the Craft in general. The Board endorsed with fraternal and heartfelt sympathy the Resolution passed by the Board of Benevolence. This loss no doubt was felt keenly by the whole Craft and as further evidence of the prominence of Brother STUMP we quote the following: That a record be placed on the Minutes, expressing appreciation of the. valuable services rendered by the late President—R.'. W.'. Bro. J. F. STUMP —whose death has deprived Grand Lodge, and the Craft in general, of a very zealous worker. His labour in connection with the Board of Benevolence during the many years he held the position of President will long be remembered. His genial personality and wise judgment endeared him to Members of the Craft in all parts of the Jurisdiction, and they will ever retain pleasing memories of his work amongst them. Oiu- deepest sympathy is extended to members of his family in their sad bereavement. . CLAUDE E . W . JAMES, M.-.W.-. Grand Master, Hobart. W. H. STRUTT, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Hobart.
152
CORRESPONDENCE—TENNESSEE.
February,
TENNESSEE —1927. Lodges, 467; members, 50,022; n e t gain, 758. N a s h v i l l e , J a n u a r y 26, 1927,
ANDREW E . MCCULLOCH,
M.-.W.-.
Grand Master. B r o t h e r H . W . GOODLOE, o u r G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e , was present. I n s u b m i t t i n g his a n n u a l address t h e G r a n d M a s t e r , a m o n g other t h i n g s , h a d t h e following t o s a y : Old friends meet again to renew the ties of friendships already formed, auci to meet new faces and form new ties, while the newcomers join us and become a part of this great body of men who represent the best manhood of this great Commonwealth. We represent fifty tliousand men of every walk of life, and as we enjoy these meetings and take part in the business of this communication we should not fail to remember the Bretiu'en back home, and it is our duty to take back to them, new thoughts, new interest, new energy and new inspiration for the year's work. U n d e r t h e h e a d of " I l l u s t r i o u s D e a d " h e refers t o their l a t e P a s t G r a n d Masters, EDWARD K E L S E Y BACHMAN and WILLIAM H . B U M P U S .
T h e G r a n d M a s t e r refers t o t h e observance of St. J o h n ' s D a y in J u n e , a n d in a c o m m u n i c a t i o n t o t h e lodges suggests t h a t t h i s celeb r a t i o n b e also known a s W i d o w s ' a n d O r p h a n s ' D a y , g r a n t i n g t h e i n d i v i d u a l m e m b e r s an o p p o r t u n i t y of m a k i n g donations t o t h e M a sonic W i d o w s ' a n d O r p h a n s ' H o m e of Tennessee. D u r i n g t h e year t h e G r a n d M a s t e r m a d e 116 official visits. A r e m a r k a b l e record a n d o n e which will always s t a n d t o h i s credit in t h e records of their G r a n d Lodge. U n d e r t h e h e a d of " T h i r d D e g r e e " he had t h e following t o say: In recent years there has been a tendency on the part of a certain class of our membership to rush hurriedly through the degrees in the Symbolic Lodge in order t h a t they may receive the degrees in the so-called higher bodies. Any student of Masonry knows that there is much food for thought in the lessons conveyed in the degrees of the Blue Lodge. And I would be glad to see some promise exacted or statement made by the Petitioner that he will not petition any organization basing its membership on the Masonic Fraternity for at least twelve months after he has received the Third Degree. And I know of nothing, which in my opinion, would be more beneficial to our membership than a requirement for the newly made brother to learn the Lecture of the First Section of the Third Degree. T h e G r a n d Lodge formally extended recognition t o t h e Y o r k G r a n d L o d g e of Mexico. W e c o n g r a t u l a t e our Tennessee b r e t h r e n o n this act. ' T h e G r a n d M a s t e r r e c o m m e n d e d t h a t their law be a m e n d e d p r o hibiting r e q u e s t s upon o t h e r G r a n d Jurisdictions for conferring t h e E n t e r e d A p p r e n t i c e Degree. T h e C o m m i t t e e on J u r i s p r u d e n c e , however, t o o k a n opposite view a n d t h e r e c o m m e n d a t i o n was n o t a d o p t e d .
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—TENNESSEE.
153
His r e c o m m e n d a t i o n t h a t all b r e t h r e n when raised t o t h e sublime degree of M a s t e r M a s o n should commit t o m e m o r y t h e l e c t u r e of t h a t degree did n o t m e e t t h e approval of t h e C o m m i t t e e on J u r i s p r u d e n c e , a n d therefore " d i e d a b o r n i n g " . T h e R e p o r t on Correspondence was p r e p a r e d b y B r o t h e r C. H . SMART, as a successor t o their l a t e distinguished B r o t h e r H . A. C H A M B E R S , whose writings as a compiler of t h e R e p o r t on Correspondence, were a m o n g t h e best. B r o t h e r SMART is a w a k e t o t h e fact t h a t assuming t h e s e responsibilities is s o m e w h a t of a t a s k a n d from his preface t o t h e r e p o r t we quote t h e following: The appointment came to us unexpectedly, without a single exertion on our part or that of any of our friends, to our Icnowledge, and was as unexpected as a cyclone to the average Tennessee town. Our thanks are especially due to M.". W .•. ANDREW G . MCCULLOCH for his confidence in our ability, and we wish to assure him that we fully appreciate the honor conferred. If our efforts in this report meet his approbation, we shall feel perfectly satisfied. If they do not, we will feel that we have endeavored to do our best—and have failed. Our belief has always been that a correspondent should have an opinion—• good, bad or indifferent—and should freely express it. In this manner alone can the happenings in the world of Masonry be made clear. Should a Grand Master make a decision and a correspondent quote it without comment, although it may be wrong from beginning to end, it might be passed by without any particular attention being paid to it. If a correspondent attacks the decision, backs up his objection' with good, sound argument, he will soon And out from the other correspondents whether he is right or wrong. Objection from a correspondent to a custom in another jurisdiction should not be attacked as unlawful, because what is law in one jurisdiction oftentimes is not law in another. Then it is that the law may be attacked for being wrong in principle. Before a correspondent "starts something" he oughtto be reasonably sure that he can hold his own with the best of them. We t a k e it from his excellent review of Proceedings t h a t h e is m a s t e r of t h e situation, has t h e affairs well in h a n d a n d will no d o u b t prepare a r e p o r t which will meet t h e expectations of t h e b r e t h r e n b o t h in a n d outside of their own jurisdiction. B r o t h e r SMART is a w a k e t o t h e fact t h a t it is t h e younger generation who a r e largely t o b l a m e for t h e so-called progressive spirit in M a s o n r y a n d w h o t o a large e x t e n t are disposed t o t r a m p l e under foot t h e L a n d m a r k s , Charges a n d R e g u lations of t h e F r a t e r n i t y . Of course t h e r e a r e exceptions; however, from observation our s t a t e m e n t is n o t t o o broad. H . L E E F O X , M . - . W . ' . G r a n d M a s t e r , Murfreesboro. STITH M . C A I N , R . - . W . - . Grand Secretary, Nashville.
C. H . SMART, Correspondent, Nashville. N e x t A n n u a l , Nashville, J a n u a r y 2 5 , 1928.
154
CORRESPONDENCE—TEXAS.
February,
TEXAS —1926. Lodges, 986; members, 135,800; net gain, 3,026. Waco, December 1, 1926. E D . R . BRYAN, M.-. W.-. Grand Master.
Our Grand Lodge was honored at this Annual Communication in having M.'. W.\ Brother WILLIAM CLARK as its Grand Represen-
tative. The following, submitted by Past Grand Master W. M. FLY, will no doubt be interesting to our readers: I have sought this opportunity to ask for the privilege of delivering in your . presence a message from a member in my own Lodge who could not be present upon this occasion because of liis advanced age. He was 100 years old last March, and was made a Mason before he was 21 years old. (Applause.) So you have it, he has been a Mason sometliing like 78 years. I wanted to announce this in your presence, my Brethren, because it is not always pleasant to look at these Western suns and feel that you are getting so near it, and this is for your encouragement, my Brethren, because you see you are yet young men. Look up, lift tip for many more years, I bid you. (Applause.)
Among other things in submitting his annual address, the Grand Master had the following to say: We might study with profit to oiirselves the history of the pioneers of Te.xas Masonry; the sacrifices they made that you and I might enjoy the privileges of liljcrty and equality as taught and practiced by them, at a time and in a country where it was dangerous to promulgate them. When we remember that it was necessary for these pioneers who first met to discuss the feasibility of organizing a Masonic Lodge, for self protection, to meet in a laurel thicket in a cemetery of a private citizen, we will realize that those men were real Masons, with the courage of their convictions, and imafraid, and the motives actuating them may be well stated in the language of one of the participants: " T h e dangers, therefore, attendant upon an organization of Masons at this time, which was 'trying men's souls', were neither few nor unimportant. But zeal for a beloved institution, a belief that it would be beneficial a t a period when society seemed especially to need some fraternal bonds to unite thera together predominated; all fears of personal consequences were thrown aside, and the resolution to establish a Lodge, as above mentioned, was adopted." *
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*
*
*
*
I have called your attention to the work of these pioneers of Masonry to show you that Masonry was established in Texas through and by sacrifices made by its devotees. The history of the past teaches us that no good thing was ever accomplished, no institution for the uplift and betterment of humanity ever succeeded, no great philanthropic undertaking was ever launched, except by and through the self sacrifice of men. Some may think the day of the pioneer is over; that his work is done, and he has passed into history. I t may be that the pioneers that wrested our fair land from savages, who organized our churches, our schools, and oiu" charitable Institutions and laid the foundation of the present civilization, have wrought well and passed to their reward. But every thinking man must realize that we are as much in need of pioneers today as ever. My brethren, I know of no more capable institution to lead us out of this dark wilderness of materialism than Masonry. While I realize that Masonry is not a reform iDstitution, yet time has demonstrated that the principles upon
1927-28.
CoBBESPONDBNCE—TEXAS.
155
which Masonry is founded are such when Interwoven Into the lives of men, produce the highest state of happiness that can be attained by man here on earth. History Informs us that those men who have guided their lives by the principles of Masonry, from the earliest dawn of civilization to the present time, have been the happiest, rendered the most ser\'ice to mankind, and in a large measure guided the destinies of the human race. We have only to continue to exemplify in our daily lives, in our contact with our fellow men, these sublime principles, in order to bring our people, our nation, back to a simple, sound and sane basis of living. I have recalled to your mind the ideals of Masonry, as expressed by our Grand Lodge, in order that we may examine ourselves and see whether or not we are living up to our great privileges as expressed in these ideals. U n d e r t h e subject of " P h y s i c a l D e f e c t s " t h e G r a n d M a s t e r r e ports h a v i n g g r a n t e d special a u t h o r i t y t o confer t h e degrees on t w o h u n d r e d petitioners who possessed minor physical defects. I n j u s t i fication of his action i t is s t a t e d t h a t all of t h e m were physically able t o practice a n d i m p a r t freely, w i t h o u t artificial or other m e a n s , all t h e rites a n d ceremonies of Ancient Craft M a s o n r y . W e t a k e it f r o m t h e above t h a t certain portions of t h e L a n d m a r k s are deleted as a p a r t of t h e laws of our T e x a s b r e t h r e n . T h e G r a n d M a s t e r a m o n g his decisions, rendered t h e following: where a lodge rejects a n a p p l i c a n t it holds jurisdiction over h i m for five y e a r s unless it is w a i v e d b y t h e lodge in which h e was rejected. W h a t is k n o w n as t h e " W h i t e S h r i n e " is not p e r m i t t e d t o use t h e lodge r o o m s in t h a t jurisdiction. H e also ruled t h a t it was n o t p e r missible t o present a n E n t e r e d Apprentice with a bible i n s t e a d of a l a m b s k i n a p r o n . W e believe t h i s is t h e first t i m e t h e writer h a s ever learned of a n y jurisdiction where it was proposed t o eliminate t h e p r e s e n t a t i o n of a l a m b s k i n a p r o n . H e ruled t h a t in all cases w h e r e t h e funeral ceremony w a s c o n d u c t e d b y a Masonic lodge all p a l l b e a r e r s m u s t be M a s o n s . U n d e r " P r o f a n e S w e a r i n g " he h a d t h e following t o s a y : I t seems to me there is a growing tendency among the brethren to forget that part of the Entered Apprentice lecture which tells him that his duty to GOD is such that he should "never mention His name, but with that reverential awe due by a creature to his Creator." How can a Mason, after receiving the beautiful lessons taught in the Entered Apprentice degree so far forget himself as to take the name of GOD in vain? Gall attention of the brethren to this habit, easily formed, so hard to correct, so useless and thoughtless; and contrary to Masonic teaching. T h e following u n d e r t h e h e a d of " K e e p N o n - M a s o n i c Discussions Out of t h e Lodge R o o m " will no d o u b t be of interest to our r e a d e r s : There seems to be a tendency creeping into all organizations, as an organization, to correct political and other evils, so prevalent at the present timeSuch actions are foreign to Masonry. I t has never been the policy of Masonry, as a body, to attempt a political, ecclesiastical or other reformation. Masons should be ever ready to correct all evil tendencies that are calculated to bring reproach and harm upon their community, state or nation, but they must do it as individuals and not within the walls of a Masonic Lodge. These matters when brought into Masonic Lodges have caused friction and discord in the
156
CORRESPONDENCE—TEXAS.
February,
past, and you are therefore directed in your visits to caution the bretliren not to bring such things into the lodge, but strictly adhere to the ancient landmarks.
A s a matter of interest to our readers we are pleased to quote the following from the oration delivered by Brother J. J. GALLAHER: Masonry Is pure and free, or else a huge tragedy. It is not vital for the purposes of the hour to discuss the exact date when, or the particular circumstances under which. Freemasonry originated. A tradition is just as sacred as an established fact, and we may be well content to adopt the accepted truth, that under the present distinctive name of Masonry this institution, guild, cult or by wliatsoever name it may have been known in past centuries, represents the oldest such association of ideals that history records. And you, who have assembled here today, represent the heart of that institution, at whose right hand has always rested truth and wisdom, at her left love, mercy and tolerance, and within whose domain have ever been nurtured the seeds of universal brotherhood. A fraternity which embodies in its fundamentals those principles which humanize the heart and impel all within its influence to realize duties which no human law teaches and which the development of universal fraternalism alone can stimulate into action. Principles which inculcate the purest practical lessons of morality in a more persuasive manner than any other agency known to history. No other institution was ever built on a firmer foundation than that of ours, which takes the Holy Bible as its corner stone. No other foundation could have sustained the structure. No other influence could have preserved its harmony and peace. Masonry is pure because its principles emanate from the Source of all Purity, Light and Love. I deliberately use the word " p u r e " because it is defined as meaning "real, perfect and complete, without mixture or combination and free from that which may harm, or weaken or destroy." Masonry is free because the principles which it embodies are unconstrained, unconfined and universal. These principles are given to us by that great Creator to whom our institution is erected and extend to men of all nations, of all religions and of all creeds. Wliile Masonry requires of each member a strict adherence to the laws of the country in which he resides, it points him toward that ideal of human development, that foremost thought so forcibly outlined in the great light in Masonry, which teaches, " t h e world is my country." While we in this land of sunshine and freedom are being taught that wc should be faithful to every tradition of the Stars and Stripes, Masonry, the world-wide lover of humanity, is also teaching the members of a thousand lodges in other lands their own lessons of justice and patriotism. May we, in this hour of quiet meditation, attain that certain manhood and forbearance by which we cannot do otherwise than conclude that the principles of a great fraternity, erected to the Supreme Giver and dedicated to His Holy Saints, are not to be selfishly appropriated by any fraternal, political or religious subdivision of GOD'S creatures, but that we owe it to that Supreme Giver to teach these principles universally. We, assembled on this occasion to transact the business of this Grand Communication, are, for the most part, masters and past masters of lodges which compose the greatest Grand Jurisdiction in the \Yorld. We have enjoyed the liighest honors of our local organizations and been vested with the responsibilities and knowledge of the needs and demands of Masonry, .which the experience of the master alone can give. We live imder a government which permits almost unlimited personal liberty, enjoy the blessings of home and fireside, gtiaranteed by a Constitution founded upon the very principles of Ma" sonry, which Constitution extends to all within its domains those rights in the pursuit of happiness almost co-extensive with conscience itself. We, as masters, have with tripping tongues admonished our candidates ever to be mindful of the duties they owe to the Giver of every good and perfect gift. Lest we forget, may we also be reminded that we are ever to esteem Him as the chief good.
1927-28.
COBBESPONDENCE—UTAH.
157
While Masonry is attempting to Iceep pace with developments that go on in dizzy speed around it, it is for Masons, to whom has been entrusted the keeping of the faitli of the Fathers, to not forget that man is the greatest miracle in a miracle-filled world. He does not know where he came from nor where he is going. He does not know when he is going nor how he is to go. I t is certain that he came into the world and that one day he will go from it. But it is equally certain that he will not go until he has lived his day and left his work by which his manhood may be meas\ired.
The Report on Correspondence was prepared by Past Grand Master W. M. FLY, and with it he includes a review of our 1926 Proceedings. M. A. CHILDBRS, M . \ W.-. Grand Master, San Antonio. W. B. PEARSON, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, Waco.
W. M. FLY, P.-. G.-, M .-., Correspondent.
UTAH —1927. Lodges, 25; members, 4,937; net gain, 119. Salt Lake City, January 18, 1927. FRED MORGAN N Y E , M.-. W / .
Grand Master. M.-.W.". Brother ARTHUR C . WHERRY, our Grand Representative,
was present. The Grand Master consumes but a half dozen lines in presenting his annual address. This limited preface consists of an announcement of this being their Fifty-sixth Annual Communication, that the associations of the year have been most pleasant to hirn and he takes pleasure in submitting for the consideration of the Grand Lodge an account of his official acts. Under the head of "Visitations" we note that he visited all the lodges in their Grand Jurisdiction and in most cases was accompanied by a majority of the Grand Lodge officers. Referring to the new Masonic Temple in Salt Lake City, we take pleasure in quoting the following: On July 29, 1926, ground was broken in Salt Lake City for the erection of a new Masonic Temple. No event in the history of our Jurisdiction is more significant of the growth and importance of Masonry in this state than will be the completion of this magnificent temple some time this year. Fully financed, and without bonded indebtedness, this new home of the Masonic organizations of Salt Lake City will represent, when completed, an investment of nearly three quarters of a million dollars. Here also will be the future home of the Grand Lodge of Utah, ample space being provided for the Grand Secretary's office and the Grand Lodge library.
During the year he laid the corner-stone of the new Masonic Temple in Salt Lake City, and likewise dedicated the Masonic Temple at Price.
158
CORRESPONDENCE—VERMONT.
February,
We are pleased to copy that portion of the Grand Master's address under the head of "A Surprise for the Grand Secretary": " Kind hearts arc more than coronets," sings one of the world's great Poets. This has been confirmed and exemplified In many ways and at many times, but never before in any such startling and overwhelming fashion, in your Grand Secretary's experience, as on Christmas morning, last Called to the office on " a matter of business of some importance," as the matter was put over the telephone, and detained there for a short time while everything was being put In readiness, and then accompanied to the front door of the Masonic Temple by a goodly number of interested friends—on the pretext that we were all to • pay a visit to the Crippled Childrens' ward at the Hospital—and then, the surprise. There on the sidewalk, at the foot of the steps, was a fully equipped five-passenger sedan; everything complete. And then the Grand Secretary was told that this was a gift to Mm from his Masonic friends—that was what happened to the Grand Secretary.
The Proceedings are embellished with a number of interesting pictures in connection with the laying of corner-stones, and the dedication of the new Temple at Price. Such pictures may not be considered of very much consequence at this time, but in years to come they will add very much to the importance of the history of Masonry in that jurisdiction. Brother SAM H . GOODWIN, P a s t . Grand Master, presented the
usual Report on Correspondence, and we are under obligations for a splendid review of our 1926 Proceedings. DANA TYRBLL SMITH, M.-. W . ' . Grand Master, Salt Lake City. SAM HENRY GOODWIN, R . ' . W . ' . Grand Secretary and Corres-
pondent, Salt Lake City. Next Annual, Salt Lake City, January 17, 1928.
VERMONT —1927. Lodges, 103; members, 19,263; net gain, 321. Burlington, June 15, 1927.
FREDERICK H . BABBITT, M.-. W.".
Grand Master. The Grand Master consumes but little space and less time in the preface to his address as it requires less than six lines. He is honest in his statement, however, that he will be as brief as possible in giving a complete recital of the activities of his office. He announces a meeting of the Grand Lecturers, district meetings, and calls attention to lack of representation from some of their lodges. In support of this proposition he sent to all lodges a communication urging them to have their representatives attend Grand Lodge. We quote the following from his conclusion: My Brothers, the true Mason Is not made at sight, not In the fullest sense, neither can this great fraternity which with the wisdom of the ages, assumes to teach man's duty to GOD, his neighbor, and himself, dismiss the Neophyte of a
1927-28.
COBBESPONDENCE—VEBMONT.
159
few hours or days as a proficient and qualified free-mason. Much patience, study, reflection, experience and desire are necessary if he is to play his part in the work of the world. The Ritual itself is but the shadow of that great and cohesive •mass of fundamental truths embraced in Masonry's teachings, and to say that a Mason is proficient ^xid qualified merely because he had mentally mastered the language of the Kitual, is to substitute the shadow for the substance, and the forms and ceremonies, for the great and fundamental trutlis of our fraternity. The traditions, the truths, the inspirations of the ages, the promises by our fathers made and kept, the stabilizing and uplifting influence of Masonry in the life of this nation from its earliest days, pointing with unerring finger the true path of freedom, and enlightenment, the GoD-given desire to be of service to GOD and Country must become a part of every true Mason's life. He must know these things if he would be indeed proficient ; he must live them if he would be Qualified. No wind serves him who has no destined port. The destiny of Masonry today as I conceive it is not only to make its votaries nobler and more unselfish, but to so earnestly strive to exemplify these virtues, in their contact with men, as to make the world a saner and sweeter place in which to live, this dear America of ours the best governed and the kindliest land on earth, and the Stars and Stripes throughout the years to come that which it was ever intended to be, the '' Banner of the Free'': "Toiling centuries have struggled, upward on a stony way, Just to set the torch of freedom where it flames aloft today. Shall the children of the ages, fail them in this mighty trust. Let their beacon pale and dwindle, quench its beauty in the dust, Bather we shall hold it higher, shake its splendor through the sky. Searching out each nook and corner, till the things of darkness Die." We are pleased t o n o t e t h a t their G r a n d Lodge extended fraternal recognition t o t h e Y o r k G r a n d Lodge of Mexico. Dealing w i t h t h e subject of plural membership t h e C o m m i t t e e on Jurisprudence h a d t h e following t o say: This amendment in effect provides that a Mason may be a member of a lodge in this jurisdiction and without a dimit or other transfer, may»also become a member of a lodge in another jurisdiction, while retaining his membership in this. In effect this provides for dual membership. The auestion of dual membership is an old one, permitted in some jurisdictions and has been much discussed in this. Our Grand Lodge has thus far refused to recognize such dual membership, and your Committee finds no sufficient grounds for changing that rule or practice at tliis time. In our opinion dual membership would cause more confusion and trouble than its advantage would warrant. We do not think that a Mason shoiUd be permitted to double or increase his right to charity or other masonic privileges by joining different lodges. We see no more reason why a Mason should be permitted to be a member of a lodge in different jurisdictions nay more than he should be permivted to be a member of different lodges in this jurisdiction. The confusion which would arise in case of masonic offense, whereby he might be expelled in one jurisdiction and still retain his membership as a Mason In another, and all the confusion which would follow from dual membership, we think, render it inadvisable that we should adopt such practice. We, therefore, recommend that the amendment be not adopted.
A Special Committee to whom was referred the subject of the Masonic Service Association of the United States one year ago, submitted the following report, which was adopted: This Association is the outgrowth of the World War and was started primarily for the purpose of affording masonic relief in case of war or a public calamity. It has since taken on other functions, more especially educational
160
CORRESPONDENCE—VERMONT.
February,
in their nature. A jurisdiction joining such association is taxed 5 cents per capita on the members in that jurisdiction. This would mean a contribution of between $950 to 31,000 on our present membership. The money thus contributed would be used and paid by this association for the credit of that Association and not as a contribution from the Masons of Vermont. The Grand Master in his address has called your attention to the fact that the cost to the individual lodge of sending representatives to this Grand Lodge has deprived some of our smaller lodges of the privilege of representation; that more money is needed for charitable purposes within our own jurisdiction; that the dues of lodges have generally been largely increased and, in some instances, doubled; that some of the lodges are unable or it is Inadvisable for them to attempt to increase their dues. We have recently contributed S19,000 toward the building of the George Washington Memorial. I t becomes necessary to increase the expense of the Grand Secretary's office. An increase in the per capita tax at.this session has been recommended, which seems unavoidable. The call for funds in the case of the Florida sufferers was greater than our ability to meet, although not greater than the Grand Master's heart to give, and he made such contribution with assurances of further contributions if required. Similar conditions confront us with regard to the floods in the Mississippi Valley, and the Grand Master has asked for authority from this Grand Lodge to make further contribution. We now have through regular channels • and by appeals from the Grand Master greater demands for charity than we can meet. There is no evidence before us that either our Grand Master or the Grand Masters in the afflicted districts, to wit, Florida and the Mississippi Valley, have been derelict, neglectful or inefficient in the handling of all masonic funds and we find n o occasion for Vermont t o t u r n over our charitable funds to any outside organization other than through the regular masonic channels. So much for the expense of joining the Association from the charitable side only. In order to avail ourselves of the educational privileges offered by this Association, which your Committee feel would at best be of doubtful value. It would cost this Grand Lodge, or the Subordinate Lodges in this jurisdiction, more than the contribution already mentioned for charity. Add to this the fact that if this Grand Lodge joined that Association it will be necessary, in order to maintain its dignity and standing in the Association, that representatives be sent to the annual meeting of such Association a t the expense of this Grand Lodge. Above all this Committee is of opinion that the position of the Masonic Service Association is not consistent with the maintenance of the complete sovereignty of independent jurisdictions; that there is no sufficient occasion or demand that this Grand Lodge should join such Association; that the advantages of joining such Association, If any there be, are not commensurate with the cost, and, therefore, this Committee recommends that this Grand Lodge do not join said Association. p Brother ARCHIE S . HARRIMAN, Past Grand Master, again pre-
sents one of his interesting Reports on Foreign Correspondence, this being his fourth review. Judging from his review of our 1926 Proceedings there is little of the transactions of any Grand Lodge which does not come under his observation as he thoroughly touches on all matters which^came before our Grand Lodge in 1926. FREDERICK H . BABBITT, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Bellows Falls. HENRY H . ROSS, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Buriington. ARCHIE S . HARRIMAN, P . - . G . ' . M . - . , Correspondent, Middlebury.
Next Annual, Burlington, June 13, 1928.
1927-28.
COBBESPONDENCE—ViCTOBIA.
161
VICTORIA—1926. Lodges, 324; m e m b e r s , 42,090; n e t gain, 3,698. Quarterly C o m m u n i c a t i o n held in St. Kilda, M a r c h 17, 1926. V.'.W.-. B r o t h e r E D W A R D T H O M A S A P P S , our G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e , was present. T h e B o a r d of General Purposes refers to t h e passing a w a y of M.". W.". L O R D CARMICHAEL, who occupied t h e position of G r a n d M a s t e r from 1909 t o 1912. We t a k e pleasure in quoting t h e following from t h e G r a n d Secretary's report: The exclusions and resignations total 2,095; this number is too large and shows a great necessity for the Lodges to talte more interest in the Brethren when they have attained the rank of a Master Mason, and thereby retain many line characters in the service of Freemasonry. Too much time is devoted to the making of Freemasons. Many Lodges carry out the Initiation Ceremony at a regular meeting and pass and raise Brethren at emergency meetings, when the attendance of Brethren is small and very little interest taken in the work, particularly the Third Degree, which is the most impressive and should be well exemplified. U n d e r t h e subject of " G r a n d M a s t e r " he h a d t h e following t o say: We all regret that the time for the departure of His Excellency the EAHIJ of STRADBROKE, Grand Master, to his homeland is so near. He has endeared himself to every Freemason in this Territory by his close association with the Lodges and his keen interest in every movement for the welfare of the Craft. His successor, M.'.W.'. Bro. W. P. BICE, is well-known throughout the State for long and faithful services to the Institution; and the Brethren generally may be assured that the high traditions set up by his predecessors in office will be well maintained during his term of office. He will be loyally assisted by his officers and members of Grand Lodge. A splendid address w a s s u b m i t t e d b y M.'.W.'. B r o t h e r , His Excellency, T H E E A R L O F STRADBROKE, G r a n d Master, a n d from i t we are pleased t o q u o t e t h e following: After my active association with Freemasonry in this Territory for four continuous years, carefully watching its growth and considering its influence and relative importance in the community, I am impressed with the fact that the strength of every large institution depends on the manner in which it coincides with the requirements of the community. However we may define public opinion, and the words are not readily capable of a limited deflnition, it must, at any rate, be admitted that unless public opinion is in general agree- • ment with an organisation, then it is bound to gradually dwindle out of existence. The great numerical increase in Freemasonry indicates its attractiveness, although numbers are not necessarily an infallible test. Mere popularity is often so ephemeral that enquiry is necessary to discover the age of any organisation and the principles underlying its aims and constitution. Freemasonry has stood the test of time; it has withstood criticism and has come through the fiery furnace of adverse opinion unscathed. Enquiry strengthens and does not impair any genuine belief. After all, in the main, moral incentives predominate. We, in the long run, revere fine types of character who may sometimes be misunderstood—as the greatest very often are— but time generally rectifies wrong judgments. History demonstrates that the world in numerous cases has persecuted its best men.
162
CORRESPONDENCE—VICTORIA.
February,
The main object of Freemasonry is the practical application of sound principles of morality, and to put such principles into action. MATTHEW ARNOLD has finely said: " T h e objects of systems of morality Is to take possession of human life, to save it from being abandoned to passion or allowed to drift at hazard. To give it happiness by establishing it on the practice of notice, and this object they think to attain by prescribing to human life fixed principles of action, flxed rules of conduct." I t is quite clear that unless there had always been a substratum of right thinking and well doing, a civilised community of human society would have been impossible. I t should ever be the operative fundamental principles of Freemasonry to extend and strengthen this substratum. I t was well said by t h e great Roman Emperor, MARCUS AURELIUS, that " E v e r y man is worth just as much as the things are worth about which he busies himself," and as we are busying ourselves about this great institution, which has proved its-value, so may each of us hope to be considered to be of some worth in this world and to be doing something to bring happiness and contentment to others, as well as forwarding the cause of civilisation. F r o m t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s a d d r e s s we t a k e pleasure in quoting t h e following: A recent lecturer in t h e Lodge of Research strongly advocated that Freemasonry In Australia should take a more active public part in political affairs, but I am glad to say he did not receive much support, or even encouragement. May the day never come in Australia when Freemasonry will be used for political purposes, for that will be t h e beginning of the end and we shall bring ourselves to the level of some of the countries of Europe. May we be so united that no one with a suspicion of disloyalty to the Crown or to the laws of this country will receive our support, and then it will not matter to us to what brand of politics, or to what denomination he belongs, for Freemasonry happily draws its membership from all parties and religions. A t t h e Q u a r t e r l y C o m m u n i c a t i o n held in M e l b o u r n e on J u n e 16, 1926, our G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e was n o t p r e s e n t . W e q u o t e t h e following from a c o m m u n i c a t i o n from t h e G r a n d Master, read b y the Grand Secretary: The practice of some Lodges in the Metropolitan area permitting the wives and lady friends of the members being present a t the Festive Board at the conclusion of Lodge meetings is not at all desirable, and I have given tliis matter very serious consideration. The Brethren of the Lodge should not be deprived of their right to have the usual Festive Board, as this is part and parcel of our Institution. If Lodges desire to entertain the ladies a special night should be selected and the usual form of a Ladies' Night carried out, b u t on no occasion should Masonic toasts, or fires, be given at these gatherings. I desire, therefore, that the subordinate Lodges will support my wishes in this direction, and discontinue these gatherings.
The Grand Master not being present the brethren cabled him a message of love and respect. At the Quarterly Communication held in Melbourne, September 15, 1926, our Grand Representative, THOMAS APPS, was present.
R.-. W.'. Brother
EDWARD
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—VIRGINIA.
163
From the report of the Board of General Purposes we take pleaijure in quoting the following, based on a proposition of establishing a Masonic school for the sons and daughters of Freemasons: Having regard to the many opportunities for education offered in this State, the Committee does not see the necessity for establishing an institution in the nature of a school to provide for further educational purposes. The Committee favours the establishing of an Institution to receive under its protection, and to maintain, clothe and educate infant children of Freemasons belonging to this Constitution, who, from circumstances arising from the death, illness, or misfortune of either, or both parents are reduced to, and continue in a position requiring the benefits of the Institution. The Report on Correspondence was prepared by Brother WILLIAM STEWART and from his preface we quote the following: There is an apparent need for young Freemasons to be instructed in the history and practice of Freemasonry, rather than the witnessing of degree work. There are ties which unite each Jurisdiction in one common bond, and it is only right that brethren should know what is going on under lawfully constituted authority. Kansas for 1926 is noted in a brief review. W. P. BICE, M.-. W.-. Grand Master. WILLIAM STEWART, R.-. W . ' . Grand Secretary, Melbourne.
VIRGINIA —1927. Lodges, 3 5 3 ; m e m b e r s , 47,933; n e t gain, 602. R i c h m o n d , F e b r u a r y 8, 1927. B . W . B E A C H , M . - . W . - . G r a n d Master. W e n o t e t h e absence of our G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e from this C o m munication. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r p r e s e n t e d a n i n t e r e s t i n g address a n d from t h e preface w e q u o t e t h e following: Not until memory forsakes me can I forget the deference paid the high office of Grand Master, the real Masonic courtesy extended by every brother with whom I came in contact, and the eager desire to render service. As is the case with every Masonic year, we have had" our sunshine and shadows, our bereavements, our disappointments, as well as some at least of our hopes and aspirations reaUzed. From these we should renew our fortitude and strengthen our resolutions to continue with renewed courage our efforts in behalf of humanity. Placing our hand in that of the Supreme Architect of the Universe for our guidance, realizing with His help we cannot fail. Let us then continue to strive each day that we live to render real service to humanity. Let us so live that when the Angel of Death shall receive the dread mandate to strike us from the roll of the living that opposite our names m a y be written, " H e loved his fellow man." The hand of sorrow was keenly felt by the brethren of this Grand Jurisdiction in the loss of their Past Grand Master, R. T. W. DUKE, JR. ;
164
COBBESPONDENCE—VIRGINIA.
February,
also their Grand Pursuivant, R.'. W.'. JAMES A. PAMPLIN, and R/. W.'.
J. T. MCALISTBR, a member of the Committee on Jurisprudence.
Among the visitations listed we are pleased to quote the following as it is a remarkable incident-in the life of Polk Lodge: July 14th, visited Polk Lodge, No. 61. There I met a fine body of Masons and was advised by the Master that in the seventy-six years of the Lodge's existence, they had never been honored before by a ^isit from the Grand Master Dinner was served on the grounds in the good oldfashioned way. Altogether a delightful day was spent. I was accompanied on this trip by Most Worshipful Brother KERNS and E t . Wor. J. G. HANKINS,
Under "Decisions" we quote the following as it is based on an unheard of procedure in a Master of a lodge, and the ruling of the Grand Master was approved: The ballot for advancement was circulated to test the Masonic proficiency of a candidate and found clear; then spread on his moral fitness. When presented to the east, the master destroyed the ballot without any announcement and declared the baUot on moral fitness postponed until the next stated communication. I decided the whole procedure illegal: that the candidate was rejected and could not apply for advancement until the expiration of six months.
We quote the following decision, believing that the lodge requested to do the work on this candidate was in the right, as under the practice of comity between Grand Lodges the Grand Lodge of Virginia had no right to instruct a lodge in another Grand Jurisdiction under what conditions they should advance one of their candidates as an act of courtesy: Mr. A——— petitioned a Virginia Lodge. Was elected but before he could present himself for initiation was transferred by his company to a sister jurisdiction. The Virginia Lodge requested a Lodge in that jurisdiction to confer the E. A. Degree on this candidate, and not being familiar with the Virginia law they conferred all three degrees, collecting the fees for same, turning them over to the Virginia Lodge. I decided in as much as the Virginia Lodge elected him and received the fees for the degrees, that he was a member in good and regular standing of the Virginia Lodge, provided there were no objections by any member of that Lodge.
He ruled that a student attending college could only petition the lodge in whose jurisdiction he was an actual resident. We submit the above as a matter of warning to some of our own lodges located at the seat of some of our own educational institutions. We quote the following decision as it is based not only on good common sense, but certainly is a just rebuke to the Scottish Rite when assuming to confer degrees, prompted only by a desire to secure petitions: . That it is not permissible for a uniformed degree team of the Scottish Rite Masons to confer the Master Masons Degree in a York Rite Lodge.
This practice is not limited to Virginia.
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—VIRGINIA.
165
The following, under the head of " Masonic Insurance", the writer considers quite interesting and worthy of quoting: I regret having to repeat the warning uttered before regarding Insurance Companies for Masons Only, and wish to call the attention of the Craft to the fact tliat such organizations are in no way identified with, nor have the endorsement of this Grand Ijodge. The insurance may be as sound as any, I cannot say that it is not, but do not get the idea that it has any connection whatever with Masonry. The Grand Lodge of Virginia does not endorse business ventures of any character, nor does it lend its name or influence to any commercial business of any kind. Section 139 of the Methodical Digest forbids this, and it is a violation of this section, in my opinion, for a company of Masons to use the name Masonic in connection with any business enterprise conducted solely for pecuniary gain. I fear some of the representatives of these companies in their enthusiasm promote their own interests at the expense of Masonry, and I feel that action should be taken to prevent or check as far as possible, these tendencies to modernize or commercialize Masonry. F r o m his conclusion we are pleased t o q u o t e t h e following: "We need strenuous Masonic education in Virginia, not only the Ritual needs to be taught but Masonic law needs to be emphasized. I believe we are on the right track, but the task is far too ponderous for one man. Our Grand Lecturer has spent almost the entire year in the field, but his duty is primarily to teach the ritual, but it is our duty as well as our high privilege to help uphold the landmarks and Laws of Masonry, to instil into the Craft those high and sacred tenets, which abound in our ritual, the things that if put into practice in our daily lives will proclaim louder than the words of any orator the wonderful benefits to mankind and the world at large. Dissensions have been numerous in our ranks the past year, which h a s been the cause of much worry and trouble on the part of your Grand Master. This, in my opinion, is due to lack of care in selecting material for Masonic work. We cannot erect a perfect Masonic structure with inferior material. Let's try our hand at moulding and shaping the material we have in hand rather than seek more. As evidence' of their love for Past Grand Master JOSEPH W . EGGLESTON the following resolution was adopted: Resolved, That the Grand Lodge of Virginia in its 149th Annual Communication assembled, desires to give expression to the sense of sorrow felt by all of its members at the absence of Past Grand Master, Most Worshipful JOSEPH W . EGGLESTON, who has given so much of his ability and talent to Masonry in general and to this Jurisdiction in particular, and trusts that the Supreme Architect of the_ Universe may restore him to health, and grant him many years of continued usefulness. Resolved, further. That the Grand Secretary be instructed to send a copy of these resolutions to Most Worshipful Brother EGGLESTON, and to convey to him the assurance of the solicitude and affection felt for him by his brethren. M.'.W.'. Brother JOSEPH W . EGGLESTON prepared the usual Re-
port on Correspondence, which is up to standard. We regret, however, that Kansas was not made a part of this excellent review. JAMES BOWMAN, M . ' . W . - . Grand Master, Roanoke. JAMES M . CLIFT, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Richmond. JOSEPH W . EGGLESTON, P.-.G.-. M . - . , Correspondent, Richmond.
Next Annual, Richmond, February 14, 1928.
166
CORRESPONDENCE—WASHINGTON.
February,
WASHINGTON - 1 9 2 6 . Lodges, 269; members, 46,409; net gain, 1,629. Spokane, June 15, 1926. MORTON GREGORY, M . ' . W.-. d-and Master. We note t h a t Grand Representatives were extended the usual honors; however, we fail to find the names of those who were present, and therefore cannot either credit or discredit the presence of our Grand Representative. A splendid address of welcome was delivered by W.-. Brother ARTHUR W . DAVIS, and we take pleasure in quoting the following: Who are we and what are we here for? Are we selfish men looking for wordly honors? Are we fun hunters or searchers for pleasure? Or Is there something within us that forces our presence hero? Who are we? We are a brotherhood with one belief—one liope—one aim. A belief that tlie making of good men is a contribution to the world's good: one hope—that this society of ours will not only encircle the globe in numbers but in influence: one aim—that all strife shall end by the practice of that truly Masonic virtue "Love one another." What are we here for? Because there is something within us that makes it impossible for us to lie down with the beast or run with the herd; because w'e are something more than a crawling lizard, a peacock, or a grizzly bear—something that forces us to give of our time, our talents and our abilities to help.make this world a decent place for all of us to live in and to make of ourselves, men who are not ashamed of our own images in the mirror. We come here with love in our hearts—smiles on our lips—good cheer radiating from our faces, to review the work of the i)ast year and to plan for a greater service in the years tliat are to come. The Grand Master in submitting his annual message, had the following to say: Let is be first recorded that we are prompt to acknowledge, and attribute to the goodness, power and watchful care of the Supreme Grand Master of the Universe, the manifold comforts and blessings enjoyed since last we met. and may He vouchsafe to us throughout this si.xty-ninth annual commimication ivisdom in all our doings, strength of mind to solve our problems, and the beautiful si)irit of brotherly love and affection to adorn our efforts. Under "Greetings" he spoke as follows: "Behold how swiftly the sands run." The fading glow of the western horizon warns me night comes apace, and yet the work Is not done. Such is life. Such, I presume, has been the experience of all Grand Masters. From every hamlet of this Great Jurisdiction we are gathered, in t h e beautiful city of Spokane, as the representatives of the Constituent Lodges of the Ancient and Honorable Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons. We are here seriously to consider and faithfully t o promote the highest interests of the Craft. Some of you are here, also, to enjoy the smile and grasp the hand of friends of many years. Many are here for the first time. Let those who are long accustomed to our meetings, quickly and heartily greet and welcome the less experienced.
1927-28.
COBBESPONDENCE—WASIIJNGTON.
167
From his subject of "Law and Order" we note the following: The great bxilk of the undermining influence, gnawing at the foundations of our nation, emanates from those whose highest allegiance is pledged to powers not native to our soil. The names of most of them are scarcely pronounceable by the average American. Time and again, this year, my mind has returned to that little red schoolhouse on an Iowa hill, where was burned into my memory the words: "We, the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this constitution for the United States of America." My father told me those words were written by Masons. He said it was for the benefit of all mankind and intended to be a "Government of the people, by the people, and for the people." They had courage to do a daring thing. They were men who believed, as Admiral COONTZ once remarked; "One must stand up whether one is going to get licked or not." When our Masonic forefathers founded this government, they laid on us, their posterity, the duty and high privilege of perpetuating it. There seems to be a growing tendency on the part of people generally to want to obey only such laws as they, individually, approve. Such persons are not thinking straight, and "Straight thinking is necessary to straight doing." "There can be no true liberty mthout law." This nation—any nation —must be law ruled or mob ruled. As men and Masons, as individuals, there is only one course to follow if we are to be worthy of our fathers, if we are to remedy the evils that now confront us. That is the straight forward, manly, honest course.of endeavoring to obey the law—AXJL LAW, and by the force of our voice and the influence of our numbers make it decidedly unpopular to do otherwise.
Under the head of "Condition of the Craft" he had the following to say: I cannot truthfully say "There is peace, harmony and prosperity and all is well with the Craft," therefore, I do not say it. At the same time I do not know that conditions are much different from what they have been since I can remember. There is a so-called prosperity as a result of influx of numbers. Whether it is a bane or a blessing depends. Under the stress of patriotic emotion we failed to fan the wheat sown while Mars was in ascendency. And now in saner hours, we view our fields marred by harmful thistles, and one of these greedy thistles overshadows a thousand stalks of golden grain. They are in our field for what they can get, not what they yield. Even our neighbors, as they pass by, remark, how careless wo have become of late. It is useless to mourn the past. "Let the dead past bury its dead." The value of experience is in its lessons for the future. I t is time now to look the facts squarely in the face and remedy the defects.
We notice one of their lodges so far forget the purposes of our Institution that they installed their officers on Sunday. Of course the Grand Master delivered a reprimand and required them to pay a fine of $5.00 and re-install the officers. A splendid oration was delivered at this Communication, from which we are pleased to quote the following: My study of Freemasonry and my association with hundreds of Masons, particularly this year, have convinced me that there is great need, today, for re-statement of the Fundamental Principles of Freemasonry. I t is time to
168
CORRESPONDENCE—WASHINGTON.
February,
inqxiire with open mind as to the primary purposes of tius venerable institution as originally laid down by our forefathers. To conserve time, to avoid repetition, and to make clear the thoughts to be presented, let me first define a few of the words and phrases to be used. When I use the term "Freemasonry" I refer to what we sometimes call the " Blue Lodge," the "three degrees," "symbolic degrees." Particularly, I do not refer to the so-called "higher degrees" or "rites." I wish to liave you differentiate closely between the "Institution," as such and the " Mason" as an individual, as well as the individual lodge. Tu referring to the terms " moral" and " m o r a l i t y " I would liave you keep in mind the Masonic meaning, which closely relates to ethics. In the last two or three decades there have arisen many fraternal organi zations somewhat similar in outward appearance to Freemasonry. This has led to confused thinking on the part of the uninformed, and, indeed, has misled some of our less informed brethren. As a consequence, by some,.Freemasonry is looked upon simply as one of many fraternal organizations. Unless Freemasonry has something which is different from that possessed by all other institutions on earth—unless Freemasonry has some fundamental principle Wtal to the life of the world and its people—then, I too, like some outside the institution who have spoken, would say there is no justification for its continuation. But I, for one. believe that Freemasonry has a vital underlying fundamental principle, a sublime purpose, which no other institution on earth has. And I am firmly of the opinion that most, if not all, the advancement in civilization has been made because of the exercise of those principles which arc championed by Freemasonry. I must now lay down one fundamental principle. Not the thing in itself, but the concept—the thought—is the greatest thing in the universe. This I lay down as the first and foremost fundamental principle of • Freemasonry. Each man must think for himself. Without this fundamental principle Freemasonry cannot e.xist. No man can be a Mason who does not think for himself. I n my opinion, this one principle alone justifies the existence of Masonry. Inherent in Masonry it is found in no other institution on earth. M.-. W.-. Brother EDWIN
H . VANPATTEN
submitted the usual
Report on Correspondence, which includes a review of our 1926 Proceedings. From a hasty examination of his review of other jurisdictions we feel that his report as a whole covers the more important transactions of all jurisdictions. WALTER F . METER, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Seattle. HORACE W . TYLER, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Tacoma. EDWIN H. VANPATTEN, P.-. G.-. M.-., Correspondent. (No ad-
dress given.) Next Annual, Seattle, June 21, 1927.
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—WESTERN
AUSTRALIA.
169
WESTERN AUSTRALIA—1927. Lodges, 124; m e m b e r s , 7,667; n e t gain, 397. A Q u a r t e r l y C o m m u n i c a t i o n was held in Kalgoorlie, A u g u s t 26, 1926. At this C o m m u n i c a t i o n t h e G r a n d Lodge was opened in F o r m b y t h e G r a n d Secretary, owing t o t h e absenr^e of t h e G r a n d M a s t e r a n d his D e p u t y . W e note t h a t t h e offices of D e p u t y G r a n d M a s t e r and G r a n d Senior and J u n i o r W a r d e n s were filled by b r e t h r e n acting, which would indicate t h a t n o t only t h e G r a n d M a s t e r and D e p u t y were a b s e n t b u t likewise t h e W a r d e n s . U n d e r t h e subject of " M a s o n i c Jubilee of T w o B r e t h r e n " we are pleased t o q u o t e t h e following from t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s a d d r e s s : Wor. Bro. STKICKLAND was initiated on tlie 17th May, 18G5, and B.-.W.-. Bro. HUMBLE on the 20th June. 1856, in the Lodge Hoora of the old Freemasons' Tavern, wliich stood at the corner of St. George's Terrace and William Street, where the Balace Hotel is now situated. The lives of these two brethren stand out as a beacon light to guide the course of tlie younger Ijrethren, who are following in their wake, and Grand Bodge is grateful indeed for the example tliey have set and for all that they have done for'the Craft. Such an liistoric occasion should not be allowed to pass without some record being made in the proceedings of Grand Bodge, so I mention the fact, that it may be an inspiration to the younger Freemasons, as well as the Freemasons yet to be. T h e next Q u a r t e r l y was held in P e r t h , N o v e m b e r 25, 1926. M o s t R e v . C. O. L. R I L E Y , G r a n d Master, presiding. T h r o u g h t h e B o a r d of General Purposes it was r e c o m m e n d e d t h a t t h e G r a n d Secretary's salary be increased from seven h u n d r e d p o u n d s t o eight h u n d r e d p o u n d s , a n d hereafter, by a n n u a l i n c r e m e n t s of fifty p o u n d s t o nine h u n d r e d pounds. T h e writer considers this a deserved compliment t o R.-.W.". Brother J. D . S T E V E N S O N , who has so faithfully served their G r a n d Lodge since its organization t w e n t y - s e v e n years ago. T h e next Q u a r t e r l y was held a t P e r t h , F e b r u a r y 26, 1927. Referring t o a visit t o their s t a t e b y t h e D U K E OP Y O R K , t h e G r a n d M a s t e r h a d t h e following to say relative t o his Masonic connection: I instituted inquiries as to whether it would be possible to extend a Masonic welcome to our distinguished Brother, His Royal Highness, the DUKE OF YORK, on the occasion of his visit to Perth in May next. I have been informed that the Duke is not attending any function outside of those arranged by the Federal and State Governments, so we shall be compelled to forego this pleasure and to content ourselves with presenting an Address, a copy of which I have forwarded to Melbourne for approval in accordance with the conditions published in the press. It may interest the bretliren to know that the DUKE was Senior Grand Warden of the United Grand Bodge of England in 1923, and has been Provincial Grand Master of Middlesex since 1924. U n d e r t h e subject of " E l e c t i o n of G r a n d M a s t e r " , he h a d t h e following t o s a y : Sunday next will mark the Twenty-seventh Anniversary of the establishment of Grand Bodge, and during the whole 27 years I have been in office.
170
CORRESPONDENCE—WESTERN
AUSTRALIA.
February,
having served one year as Grand Chaplain, one year as Senior Grand Warden, four years as Pro. Grand Master, and twenty-one years as Grand Master, a record of which I am very proud, and, needless to say, it is an honour which I have greatly appreciated. The Grand Secretary has been in ofBce for the same number of years, and to his clear-headedness, urbanity, sound commonsense, loyaltj', and last, but not least, his pawky Scotch humour, the great success of our Grand Lodge is mainly due. I have stated on numerous occasions, and I made it very clear last year, that I do not intend Grand Lodge taking it for granted that I will be again elected Grand Master, as later on you will be called upon to elect a brother to preside over you for the ensuing year, and I shall not feel hurt if you desire a younger man in my place. The Grand Master is very modest and the writer notes that in all his remarks dealing with his tenure of office he rather prefers, on account of advancing years, to have some other brother succeed Him. The good brethren of Western Australia, however, feel otherwise disposed, and we are inclined to believe they are doing what is best for the Craft in their jurisdiction as there will always be plenty of good material from which to select his successor when the time comes. The committee of seven on Correspondence has been changed and it now consists of one member only. This is in full accord with the laws of our own Grand Lodge. At this Communication M.-. W.-. Brother CHARLES OWEN LEAVER RILEY was again elected Grand Master. The Annual Communication was held in Perth, May 26, 1927. We again observe from the list of Grand Representatives in attendance that our own was not present. This has become an annual occurrence. We note from the Grand Master's address that he made a number of official visits and likewise consecrated two lodges. - Referring to the D U K E and DUCHESS OF YORK visiting their state we quote the following communication sent to all lodges on this subject: We, the members and Brethren of the Grand Lodge of Western Australia, of Free and Accepted Masons, respectfully beg to tender to Your Royal Highnesses a hearty welcome to this State. We desire to express to Your Eoyal Highnesses our wholehearted and dutiful loyalty to the throne and person of His Majesty our gracious King. We shall ever remember with pride that your revered grandfather, His Majesty the late King EDWABD VII, ruled our Craft in England for more than a quarter of a century, and t h a t when he ascended the throne he graciously took upon himself the title of Protector of the Craft. I t is an added pleasure to know that Your Koyal Highness takes a great personal interest in Freemasonry, and occupies with so much acceptance a high and responsible position in our society, which we beUeve makes for the peace of the world. Among the millions of His Majesty's subjects we yield to none in loyalty to the throne, and in gratitude to Your Royal Highness and Your Illustrious Consort for your kindness in coming to this distant part of the Empire to open our first Federal Parliament in the New Australian capital of Canberra. We all humbly pray to the Almighty that Your Royal Highnesses may have a safe return to t h e Motherland, which we still call by the sacred name of Home.
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—WEST
VIRGINIA.
171
The Report on Correspondence was prepared by Brother JAMBS W. E. ARCHDEACON, Past Grand Senior Deacon, and from his preface
we take pleasure in quoting the following: Both inside and outside of the Empire, the Craft seems prosperous. The membership is greater. The funds have increased. Masonic homes and other philanthropic institutions mark Freemasonry's sedulous practice of " the.greatest thing in the world "—charity. In every Grand Jurisdiction in world, Masons are now doing for the Craft what our antient operative brethren did for religion—• they are erecting temples of their own, and of a character that will add to the architectural beauty of cities and towns, and form a monument to the "system of morality veiled in allegory and illustrated with symbols" as the operativebuilt churches are monuments of faith and devotion to GOD. Olandestlnism seems to be growing less, but on the other hand, too many quasi-Masonic organisations predicate their membership .more or less upon association with Masonry. I fear that indirectly may be traced to some of these, the prevalence in certain quarters to a commercialisation of Masonry, against which Grand Lodges protest without having, apparently, detected its source. A number of Grand Lodges in America are making the violation of the Eighteenth Amendment to the Constitution of the Union (Prohibition) a Masonic offence. American Lodges are conducting a movement towards "purging themselves of moral undesirables. The Masonic Service Association of the United States seems to be just about holding its own as an educational institution, under the aegis of about half of the Grand Lodges. Our American brethren are seriously combatting with tubercular diseases. While, admittedly, American Masonry, as such, enters too frequently into politics, it seems to be awakening to its dangers, and to a realisation of the principle set forth in the Antient Charges. Unfortunately, the same awakening does not seem to have taken place with regard to the other subject mentioned in the same Charge, and on which is based our Masonic ideal of non-aggressiveness in religious matters, as, despite their claim of Masonic tolerance. Masonic orators are found proclaiming a militant antagonism to certain supposed claims and aims of the Latin Church. I n his splendid review we are favored with four pages, covering our 1926 Proceedings. C. 0 . L. R I L E Y , M . - . W . - . G r a n d M a s t e r .
J. D . S T E V E N S O N , R . ' . W . - . G r a n d Secretary, P e r t h .
WEST VIRGINIA—1926. Lodges, 166; members, 33,506; net gain, 530. Martinsburg, November 10, 1926. A. B. C. BRAY, M.-.W.-.Grand
Master. Brother
PARE
H . LORENTZ, our Grand
Representative,
was
preserxt. Tiie Grand Master in submitting his annual address, among other things, had the following to say concerning Freemasonry: Freemasonry, with the exception of the Church of GOD, stands out as the leading benefactor of mankind. It does not attempt to usurp the place of any reUgious sect, yet. Its ideals are so lofty that it condemns and frequently punishes offenses which are not cognizable by civil law nor condemned by public
172
CORRESPONDENCE—WEST
VIRGINIA.
February,
opinion. If one of the profane were to aslc me " w h a t is the ground upon which Masonry stands?" I would unhesitatingly answer: "First, Belief in and reverence for a Supreme Arciiitect ofthe Universe. ..Second, Love thy neighbor as tliyself." Upon tiiese two tenets or principles hang all the teachings of Masonry. H e declined seven r e q u e s t s from churches t o lay corner-stones on S u n d a y , a n d in commenting on t h i s s u b j e c t he h a d t h e following to say: Upon first thought these repeated refusals may appear arbitrary, but, in my opinion, tlie laying of corner stones on' the Sabbath is an innovation and contrary to a very essential section of tlie instruction or lecture in the Second Degree: " I n six days GOD created the Heavens and the Earth, and all tilings therein contained and rested on the seventh. Tlie seventh, therefore, our ancient brethreri consecrated as a day of rest from their labors,'thereby enjoying frequent and stated opportunities to contemplate the glorious works of Creation a,nd to adore their great Creator." The above quotation is not original in this State, or even in the United States. I t is talien, verbatim, from the Prestonian lectures which were accepted by our English brethren previous to 1772. As there is little or no authentic Masonic history extant which was written previous to 1717, the Prestonian lectures must, therefore be classed with our earliest Masonic documents. T h e policy of their G r a n d L o d g e is in a b s o l u t e accord with our own laws a n d r e g u l a t i o n s on this s u b j e c t . W e m i g h t a d d as a word of inf o r m a t i o n t h a t we receive more or less r e q u e s t s from churches t o perform t h i s c e r e m o n y on t h e S a b b a t h a n d in m a n y instances because of our refusal t o g r a n t t h e i r r e q u e s t s t h e y become miffed a n d perform s o m e sort of a ceremony which of course is n o t authorized b y church or o t h e r o u t s i d e regulations. We, as M a s o n s , are not unmindful of t h e H o l y W r i t reading " i n six d a y s " , etc. A p e t i t i o n e r who h a d been rejected t w i c e in one of their lodges s u b s e q u e n t l y petitioned a n o t h e r lodge, neglecting t o s t a t e w h e t h e r he h a d ever p e t i t i o n e d before, a n d received t h e degrees. T h e question w a s t h e n s u b m i t t e d to t h e G r a n d M a s t e r w h o issued his E d i c t declaring t h i s i n d i v i d u a l t o be an irregularly m a d e M a s o n w i t h o u t a n y Masonic s t a n d i n g a n d ordered t h a t his n a m e be s t r i c k e n from t h e rolls of t h e lodge in which t h e y assumed t o confer t h e degrees. T h e following words from t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s conclusion will no d o u b t be i n t e r e s t i n g : Brethren, after all is said. Freemasonry has but one object, viz: The upUft of manliind. Each year the Church of GOD ; our fraternal and our social organizations are attaining so.me success. Let us, as Masons, try to lead the van and carry our standard, with fervency and zeal, toward our objective. T h e G r a n d Secretary's r e p o r t is one of detail a n d t h e various s u b j e c t s are covered in a v e r y brief b u t intelligent m a n n e r . On t h e afternoon of t h e second d a y t h e G r a n d Lodge held a Lodge of Sorrow in m e m o r y of t h e i r P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r JoHN M . M C C O N I H A Y . T h i s service s p e a k s well for t h e G r a n d L o d g e of West Virginia a n d t h e writer r e g r e t s t o say t h a t t o t h e b e s t of his knowledge, which dates
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—WISCONSIN.
173
back about forty-five years, our Grand Lodge has held but one Lodge of Sorrow. We note with surprise the following taken from the Report of the Committee on Chartered Lodges: We note that, notwitlistanding the fact that our Masonic year ends September 30th, some Lodges each year fail to file their reports with the Grand Secretary until Grand Lodge is in Session.
The writer, who happens likewise to be Grand Secretary, is pleased to say that during his thirty-four years of service he has never closed his annual reports with a single annual return outstanding. Our lodges are simply made to understand that if the reports are not in they are not only denied representation but the charter will be arrested immediately. We now come to the second Report on Correspondence prepared by Brother Liswis N. TAVENNER and feel that our greetings and words of welcome to the Mutuals one year ago were not misplaced. His report is well prepared and interesting, although we are inclined to believe that in some cases it is a little too brief. This remark, however, does not have reference to his review of our 1926 jourhal as he has granted us two full pages. WILLIAM TAYLOR WORKMAN, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Echo. GEORGE S . LAIDLEY, R.-.W.-. Grand Secretary, Charleston. LEWIS N. TAVENNER, P.-. G . \ M.-., Correspondent, Parkersburg.
Next Annual, Huntington, November 16, 1927.
WISCONSIN —1927. Lodges, 302; members, 58,826; net gain, 1,839. Milwaukee, June 14, 1927. D. H. MOONEY, M.-.W.-. Grand Master. On account of illness, their venerable Grand Secretary, R.-. W.". WILLIAM W . PERRY was unable to attend. Brother DAVID HARLOWE, our Grand Representative, was pre-
sent. Under the head of Necrology we note their Grand Chaplain, W.". Rev. CHARLES A. ADAMS passed away during the year. Likewise Past Grand Master BERNARD F . KELLER died at his home in LaCrosse on August 30, 1926. The Grand Master ruled that it was not a violation of Masonic law for a Mason to place Masonic emblems on the radiator of his automobile. The Committee oh Jurisprudence, however, disapproved of this decision. Their decision was based on the action of their Grand Lodge in 1923 when it approved a decision of the Grand Master a t
'i74
COBBESPONDENCE—WISCONSIN.
t h a t t i m e in answer t o t h e s a m e q u e s t i o n . as follows:
February,
T h e ruling a t t h a t time was
Freemasons in this jurisdiction are strictly forbidden to display Masonic emblems in any way as an advertisement. T h e C o m m i t t e e , on c o m m e n t i n g on t h e subject, a m o n g other t h i n g s h a d t h e following to s a y : The display of Masonic emblems for advertising purposes is certainly reprehensible and the principle announced in this decision would certainly open the way to an unseemly prostitution of Masonry for advertising purposes. If a person may place a Masonic emblem on the radiator of his car, with equal propriety he could place the Square and Compasses over tlie door of a meat marlfet or a barber shop, thereby bringing discredit upon tlie Institution. T h e w r i t e r most h e a r t i l y agrees w i t h t h e C o m m i t t e e on J u r i s p r u d e n c e a n d even goes further in q u e s t i o n i n g t h e m e n t a l capacity of one w h o claims t o be a m e m b e r of t h e M a s o n i c F r a t e r n i t y who will h a v e t h e poor t a s t e to place a M a s o n i c e m b l e m on an automobile. I t would be j u s t as consistent t o place s u c h e m b l e m on t h e front window of a grocery s t o r e , bank or a n y place of business, profession, or- otherwise. T h e t h i n k i n g M a s o n is justified in questioning t h e motive of one w h o has s u c h a limited conception of t h e purposes of our t i m e honored I n s t i t u t i o n as t o use i t s symbols in t h i s m a n n e r as it means nothing more or less t h a n small knowledge a n d large p r e t e n t i o n s . T h e G r a n d Master ruled t h a t t h e divorced wife of a M a s t e r M a s o n in good standing has no claim on t h e F r a t e r n i t y for assistance. H i s ruling w a s approved. I t seems wonders never cease a s we n o t e t h e G r a n d Master was a s k e d if it w a s proper for a lodge t o e m p l o y a p a i d investigator t o inv e s t i g a t e petitioners for t h e degrees. Of course t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ruled in t h e negative. T h e G r a n d Secretary was r e q u e s t e d b y one of their lodges t o certify t o t h r e e widows' certificates, issued b y one o/ their lodges. T h e q u e s t i o n was s u b m i t t e d t o t h e G r a n d M a s t e r , w h o replied as follows: I directed the Grand Secretary to return the several blanljs unsigned by him as I could see no good reason for their use, as the widow of a Master Mason should have little difficulty in proving her claim shoidd she have reason to do so; further, there is the danger of such documents finding their way into unscrupulous hands and being used for purposes other than those originally Intended. Our Constitution, Laws and Edicts contain the outline of twenty forms which, I consider, suiHcient to cover all the needs of our subordinate Lodges, and no other forms should be used without the permission of the Grand Lodge or the Grand Master. T h e c o m m i t t e e to w h o m w a s referred t h e question of p o r t r a i t s of G r a n d M a s t e r s , reported as follows: Your Committee, to whom was assigned the tasli of completing the rearranging of the portraits of Grand Masters of this Grand Jurisdiction gracing the walls of the Grand Secretary's office, beg leave to report that their worls is finished, and that the line of portraits of Past Grand Masters, beginning with
1927-28.
CORRESPONDENCE—WISCONSIN.
175
Most Worshipful Brother KAVANAUGH to the present Grand Master, arranged according to the years of service, is unbroken. In order that this line of Past Grand Masters may remain unbroken, your Committee recommends that upon election, the Grand Master in the future arrange for a sitting as soon after he is Installed as convenient, the e.Kpense to be borne by the Grand Lodge. T h e G r a n d Lodge of Wisconsin is t o be c o n g r a t u l a t e d on this proposition as it will m e a n m u c h to t h e Craft in their jurisdiction in t h e years t o come. T h e usual Report on Correspondence w a s p r e p a r e d b y M.-.W.'. B r o t h e r A L D R O J E N K S , a n d we are again placed u n d e r obligations t o h i m for a splendid review of our Proceedings, those of 1926 being covered. Referring t o t h e law in our G r a n d Lodge requiring t h a t all correspondence dealing with m e m b e r s h i p in other G r a n d Jurisdictions shall be t r a n s m i t t e d t h r o u g h t h e office of t h e G r a n d M a s t e r or G r a n d Secretary, he h a d t h e following t o s a y : We are unable to determine what was the fate of this recommendation, but such is now the general rule among American Grand Lodges. We can remember, however, twenty-five years ago, when such circumlocution was not required. We cannot observe that any benefit has been obtained by the adoption of this practice. If our good B r o t h e r A L D R O J E N K S occupied t h e office of G r a n d Secretary or G r a n d Recorder he would soon learn t h e i m p o r t a n c e of such a law as in most instances it p r e v e n t s one jurisdiction from apologizing t o a n o t h e r for blunders m a d e b y lodges, a l t h o u g h it is scarcely expected t h a t every lodge is familiar w i t h t h e regulations governing t h e i r G r a n d Jurisdictions. T h e t r a n s m i t t a l of s u c h communications m e a n s b u t little additional work t o a G r a n d M a s t e r or G r a n d Secret a r y a n d certainly prevents confusion a n d serious mistakes. T h e writer seldom quotes c o m m e n t s h a v i n g reference t o his service as G r a n d Secretary or C h a i r m a n of t h e C o m m i t t e e on Correspondence, b u t in this instance, more as a m a t t e r of information t h a n a n y t h i n g else, he t a k e s t h e liberty of quoting t h e following k i n d words: A pleasant incident of the Communication was the presentation to the Grand Lodge of a portrait in oil of their beloved Grand Secretary, a reproduction of which, in black and white, is published. When one thinks of the Grand Lodge of Kansas he very naturally thinks of Bro. WILSON, who has filled the office of Grand Secretary for more than thirty years. The portrait was the gift of the Masonic Bodies of Topeka and will no doubt be cherished by the Grand Lodge. In addition to his ordinary duties as Grand Secretary, Bro. WILSON prepares their Report on Foreign Correspondence. This he does in a very acceptable manner. He is just old-fashioned enough to appeal to the writer, who cannot get used to the new-fangled ideas of the present generation of Masons. T h e writer is now completing his t h i r t y - f o u r t h year as G r a n d Secretary, a n d he is likewise G r a n d S e c r e t a r y a n d G r a n d Recorder of
176
CORRESPONDENCE—WYOMING.
February,
the other three Masonic Grand Bodies, and writes the Reports on Correspondence in all of them. HERBERT W . DIXON, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Menomonie. WILLIAM W . PERRY, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, Milwaukee. ALDRO J E N K S , P.-. G.-. M.-. , Correspondent, Dodgeville, Next Annual, Milwaukee, June 12, 1928.
WYOMING-1927. Lodges, 46; members, 7,925; net gain, 202. Thermopolis, August 24, 1927. O. O. NATWICK, M.-.W.-. Grand Master. We take pleasure in quoting the following from the introduction to the Grand Master's annual report: During a period, when conditions in our nation have been unsettled, it is safe to say that our fraternity has been the most stabilizing influence in America; and unless we deviate from the ancient landmarks and teachings of our order, it will continue to be such until time shall be no more. In this country of religious and political liberty, if our fraternity fails at any time to measure up to its high standard of the past, the fault will be from within and not froni without our gates. Let all of us lay it well to heart, that it is impossible to think Freemasonry, or Uve Freemasonry, without being ever mindful of the great duties we owe to GOD, our country and our fellowmen. Our ancient landmarks and teachings stand today as they stood of yore; and so must they continue to stand. T h e G r a n . i M.i ar-r ^'iriiniited t h e following concerning clandestine lodges, w h i c h subject .vaj poiti-^on^d u n t i l t h e next A n n u a l C o m munication: The matter of taking some action to restrain clandestine lodges from using one name of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons, and displaying on the front of their lodge room the square and compass sign, was submitted to me. The decision in regard to taking any definite action on this proposition should not be made by any one Mason, as it is probable that cleandestine lodges can be restrained from these practices by litigation only, and I mention the matter that our Jurisprudence Committee and this Grand Lodge may give it such consideration as in their judgment they may deem best. Under the head of "Delinquent Lodges," the Grand Master believes that conditions concerning instructions are such t h a t the Grand Secretary.should be required to visit each lodge annually and oftener if necessary. The recommendation was referred to the Committee on Jurisprudence who included with their report a proposition providing for an allowance of $1,200.00 to cover the expenses of the Grand Secretary in the performance of this duty. I t is only a try-out, however, as the action along this line is confined to one year. In view of the limited number of lodges we believe for the present the Grand Secre-
1027-1928.
CORRESPONDENCE—WYOMING.
177
t a r y is t h e best qualified, in all respects, t o carry o u t t h i s work. T h e writer, w h o is likewise Grand Secretary a n d G r a n d Recorder of all Masonic Bodies, assumed a similar responsibility when our District D e p u t y G r a n d M a s t e r system a n d district meetings w a s established, n o t w i t h s t a n d i n g t h e fact t h a t we h a d u p w a r d s of 425 lodges. I t was a h e a v y b u r d e n ; however, t h e benefits derived from establishing t h e system is w o r t h t h e effort. We n o t e from t h e report of t h e T r u s t e e s of t h e Masonic H o m e F u n d t h e r e is more t h a n $52,000.00 t o t h e credit of t h a t a c c o u n t . D u r i n g t h e p a s t year t h e committee expended more t h a n $ 3 , 8 0 0 . 0 0 for charitable purposes. This was a little more t h a n t h e income. We t a k e pleasure in quoting t h e following few words from t h e R e p o r t on Necrology: Nothing of permanent value is lost with GOD. Spiritual ties remain unbrolien by the transition. When the infinite value of the human soul and the moral purposes of the universe occupy our thoughts, then, we realize more than ever that this transition is but one step nearer to perfection. We may not reach it at a single bound, but when the Great Artificer shall unfold to us His plans, then we will know. The well-rounded Mason is fitted for any duty in life. The citizenship of America, and in fact of the world, within and without our tiled recesses, today more than ever before, recognizes the fact, and the badge of a true Mason, the world over, has come to be the sign of a true man. A step at a time, we pass through life, not knowing what the next step may bring to us, whether new joys in this existence, or, whether the veil will be parted and we will be ushered Into the presence of the all-wise Father, but with an abiding faith that whatever is, is for the best, and in good time we will know. We go on doing the best we can with the talents He has given us, sure that we will be rewarded for our efforts, therefore, let our work be well performed, building a good and solid foundation and rearing tlie superstructure of our lives and work, with square materials, well laid that those who see may admire and enjoy, carrying forward the great work of building better and nobler lives. U p o n t h e r e c o m m e n d a t i o n of t h e G r a n d M a s t e r their G r a n d Lodge w i t h d r e w from t h e Masonic Service Association. B r o t h e r J O S E P H M . L O W N D E S , G r a n d Secretary, p r e p a r e d t h e usual R e p o r t on Correspondence, s u b m i t t i n g t h e same w i t h o u t a n y c o m m e n t s . T h e G r a n d Lodge of Kansas for 1927 receives a t t e n t i o n a t his h a n d s a n d t h e writer is u n d e r obligations for his c o m p l i m e n t a r y r e m a r k s covering our jurisdiction. M A R I O N A. K L I N E , M . ' . W . ' . G r a n d M a s t e r , C h e y e n n e . J O S E P H M . L O W N D E S , R . - . W . ' . G r a n d S e c r e t a r y a n d Correspon-
dent, Casper. N e x t A n n u a l , Cheyenne, August 15, 1928.
178
February.
CORRESPONDENCE—APPENDIX.
MEMBERSHIP GRAND LODGES. Statistical table showing membership of Grand Lodges. Compiled by R .•. W .•. ALBERT K . WILSON, for the Kansas Comnuttee on Correspondence. February, 1928.
Grand
Florida
Ohio
Utah
Total U . S
Lodge.
No. of Lodges. 579 .36 559 ,563 163 120 22 34 254 648 88 1,006 559 558 449 596 271 206 118 312 497 306 387 062 133 291 23 226 56 989 442 126 608 437 164 559 40 293 176 467 986 25 103 353 269 166 302 46 16.273
Year.
1926 1927 1926 1927 1926 1927 1926 1926 1927 1926 1926 1927 1927 1927 1927 1926 1927 1927 1926 • 1926 1927 1927 1927 1926 1926 1927 1927 1927 1927 1927 1927 1927 1926 1927 1926 1926 1927 1927 1927 1927 1926 1927 1927 1927 1926 1926 1927 1927
Membership. .54,538 6,083 34,821 129,309 32,126 45,109 5,955 22,993 .30,404 68,890 10,008 290,642 127,915 86,541 83,401 67,186 35,151 43,751 32,632 124,491 149,128 60,742 36,402 113,212 20,371 41,586 2,890 89,597 6,578 329,295 41,643 15,407 198,265 71,002 28,969 207,343 18,291 29,753 19,683 50,022 135,800 4,937 19,263 47,933 46,409 33..506 .58,826 7,925 3,216,724
Net Gain. 548 182 6,897 967 928 43 293 3,006 4,677 1,700 1,236 246 266 577 2,167 2,873 1,156 902 1,243 396 649 169 3,367 23 8,310 309 153 4,804 1,329 931 3,232 232 250 51 758 3,026 119 321 602 1.629 530 1,839 202 63,138
Net Loss.
729
931
3,387 4,886
9,933
179
CORRESPONDENCE—APPENDIX.
1027-28
OTHER GRAND LODGES RECOGNIZED BY T H E GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS. Grand
Chile
Ledge.
:
Guatemala
Mexico ( Y o r k G . - . L . - . )
No. of Lodf/cs. 147 119 519 .73 10 5 171 7 4,195 18 3 700 103 14 44 437 270 80 8 15 102 18 53 84 334 4 187 926 133 41 324 124
Year.
1927 1927 1927 1926 1926 1927 1925 1925 1926 1927 1926 1927 1927 1927 1926 1926 1926 1927 1927 1924 1927 1927 1927 1927 1926 1927 1927 1927 1927 1927 1926 1927
Membership^ Lasl Report^
Net Loss.
Net Gain.
13,035 14,512 110,549 3,574 816 300 13,272 385 330,000 402 178 50,000 11,747 893 5.989 62,020 24,823 9,820 355 1,900 6,842 1,197 4,500 14,689 21,000 132 13,606 260,000 13,093 3,651 42,090 7,667
363 547 2,873
635 122 3.698 397
1,324
15
248 94 26 2,949 936 76 5 20 537 1,000 515
14
45
300 416
Total U . S. T o t a l s
9,268 16,273
1,043,037 3,216,724
14,808 63,138
2,347 9,933
Grand Total
25,541
4.259,761
77,946
12,280
CORRESPONDENCE—APPENDIX.
180
February,
CONSOLIDATED STATISTICAL APPENDIX. Prepared by ALBERT K . WILSON, Grand Secretary and Grand Recorder,
Kansas Correspondent. February. 1928 Grand Lodge.
Ohio
Utah
,
Totals General
Grand
Chapter
General
Grand
Council
Grand Chapter.
.54,.538 6,08;i :U,821 129,30'.) 32,1211 45,109 5,955 22,993 30,404 08,890 10,008 290,642 127,915 86,541 83,401 67,186 35,151 43,751 32,032 124,491
15,229 1,273 8,079 25,499 8,102 . 16,008 2,014 6,439 9,033 17,897 2,719 90,509 33,418 23,727 21,692 19,283 9,313 17,944 9,832 41,860
149,128 00,742 30,402 113,212 20,371 41,580 2,890 89,597 0,578 329,295 41,043 1 5,407 198,205 71,002 28,909 207,343 18,291 29,753 19,083 .50,022 135.800 4.937 19,203 47,933 46,409 33,,506 58,826 .7,925
47,420 17,040 7,018 35,000 4,843 8,383 659 5.875 20,233 2,094 72,412 8,284 4,078 80,170 14,173 7,131 50,925 10,298 6,218 6,297 11,267 43,808 1,274 5,945 17,895 9,418 12,119 25,367 2,226
3,216,724
928,720
Grand CouncU. 5,054 520 1,573 9,002 2,408 10,913 224 1,662 2,062 5,875 25,177 19,8.50 7.015 6.520 4,070 1,904 8,577 4,951 15,630 15.708 3,114 4,183 11,942 963 3,383 136 3,733 4,075 12,991 2,020 871 45,517 4,991 2,131 15,093 5,952 4,188 1,433 2,742 39,185 C 1,800 3,048 9,138 332,788
8,772 823
2,810 13,934 4,771 0,529 3,380 5,462 8,305 1,075 30,010 13,332 12,427 14,033 9,908 3,300 9,707 4,759 26,503 15,824 7,S57 4,123 16,944 2,071 4,009 303
3,510 7,531 1,395 37,526 5,324 2,323 33,874 7,415 3,869 41,906 4,100 3,729 5,186 18,836 853
3.697 7,422 5,200 7,001 10,905 1,549 452,720
1,502 1,046
Grand Encampment Sub-
1,611 3,210,724 1,043,037
United States Totals Foreign T o t a l s Grand Totals
Grand Comd'y.
1
4.2.59.761
930,222 151,083
333,834 2,074
454,331 16,367
1.081.305 1 335,908
470,698
1927-28.
181
CORRESPONDENCE—APPENDIX.
FOREIGN GRAND BODIES. Grand Lodge.
Chile C o s t a R i c a , C. A
13,035 14,.512 110,.549 3,574 816 300 13,272 385 330,000 402 178 50,000 11,747 893 5,989 62,020 24,823 9,820 355 1,900 6,842 1,197 4,500 14,689 21,000 132 13,606 260,000 13,093 3,651 42,090 • 7,667
Grand Chapter, 2,811 2,645 25,815
Grand Council.
Grand Comd'y.
415
12,259
960
4,108
70,000
25,000 1,654 699
1,620 3,596 3,535 2,638
3,556 675 2,568
*
4,150 670
Totals United States Totals
1,043,037 3,216,724
151,083 930,222
2,074 333,834
16.367 454,331
Grand Totals
4,259.761
1.081,305
335,908
470,698
*No record of membership kept.
PROCEEDINGS
M;.W;. GRAND LODGE ANCIENT, FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS
KANSAS. SEVENTY-THIRD ANNUAL COMMUNICATION, HELD IN THE CITY OF WICHITA, KANSAS, February 20 and 21, A. D. 1929, A. L. 5929.
VOLUME XXI, PART 2. M.-.W.-. GEORGE F. BEEZLEY, Grand Master, Girard. M.-.W.-. ELMER F. STRAIN, Grand Secretary, Topeka.
Published by Order of the M .".W.-. Grand Lodge.
1929.
'
FERRIS M . HILL GRAND MASTER.
February 23. 1928. to February 21. 1929 .
GRAND OFFICERS FOR 1929. M.-.W.-. GEORGE P. BEEZLEY R.-. W.-. JAY B . KIRK R.-. W.'.JOHN M. KiNKEL R.-. W.-. J. FORREST AYRES
Grand Master Deputy Grand Master Grand Senior ^Varden ...Grand Junior Warden
R.-. W/. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH....Gro«d Treasurer
M.'.W.-.ELMER F . STRAIN R.-. W.'. ALBERT K . WILSON Bro. and Rev. F R E D E . BROOKS W.'. GEORGE O . FOSTER W.'. PAUL B . HOFFMANN W.'. RUSSELL P. REEDER W.-.PAUL MADDEN W.-.EKNEST C . FRIESEN W . ' . D A V I D C . KAY! W.-.HoMER T. HARDEN W.'.W. AMER BURNETT
Grand Grand Grand Grand Grand Grand Grand Grand Grand Grand Grand
Girard. lola. Topeka. Greenleaf. Lawrence.
Secretary Topeka. Secretary Emeritus..Topeka. Chaplain Topeka. Senior Deacon Lawrence. Junior Deacon Holyrood. Marshal Ft. Leavenworth. Sword Bearer Auburn. Senior Steward Hutchinson. Junior Steward Morland. Pursuivant Wichita. Tyler Oberlin.
PLACE OF MEETING —1930. The seventy-fourth Annual Communication of The M.-. W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas, will be held in the city of Topeka, Kansas, on the third Wednesday, being the 19th day of February, A. D. 1930, A. L. 5930, at 9 o'clock A. M.
KetchesOD—Leaven worth.
PROCEEDINGS OF T H E
IVI. V/..aRAND LODGK —OF—
A. F . & A. M. OF KANSAS.
SEVENTY-THIRD ANNUAL COMMUNICATION. February 20, 1929. The M.-.W.". Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas convened in Annual Communication in the Scottish Rite Temple, in the city of Wichita, Kansas, Wednesday, the 20th day of February, A. D. 1929, A. L. 5929, a t 8:30 A. M. WICHITA, KANSAS,
GRAND OFFICERS PRESENT. M.'.W.'. FERRIS M . HILL Grand Master Emporia. R.*. W.-. GEORGE F . BEEZLEY.. Deputy Grand Master Girard. R.-. W.-.JAY B . KIRK Grand Senior Warden lola. R.\ W.'. JOHN M . KINKEL Grand Junior Warden Topeka. R.-. W.'. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH..Grand Treasurer Lawrence. M.'.W.'.ELMER F . STRAIN Grand Secretary Topeka. R.\ W.'.ALBERT K . WILSON Grand Secretary Emeritus..Topeka. Bro. and Rev. FRED E . BROOKS ..Grond Chaplain Topeka. W.-. J. FORREST AYRES Grand Senior Deacon Greenleaf. W.-. ROSCOE E . PETERSON Grand Junior Deacon Lamed. W.-.BENJAMIN F . HBIS Grand Marshal Leavenworth. W.-.GROVBR C . URBANSKY....Grand Sword Bearer St. Marys. W.\ CLARENCE M . CROSBY....GroTid Senior Steward St. Francis. W.\JosBPH C.'HART Grand Junior Steward Lalcin. W.\ HOMER T . HARDEN Grand Pursuivant .-.Wichita. W.-.W. AMER BURNETT Grand Tyler Oberlin. OPENING CEREMONY.
A constitutional number of lodges being represented. The M.". W.". Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was opened in Ample Form, after an invocation for. divine blessing by Rev. FRED E . BROOKS, Grand Chaplain.
326
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
OPENING PRAYER.
We gladly pause to voice our thanksgiving and praise to Thee, O GOD, Ruler of all nature and Father of the spirits of men; and humbly to acknowledge Thee as our GOD. We adore and bless Thee for our creation, preservation and all the blessings of this life. We return grateful thanks for the gifts of food, clothing and shelter which we daily receive from Thee, and for the affection of family, friends and brothers. We praise Thee for the institution of Masonry, whose badge we so gladly wear, in whose brotherhood our souls have been nurtured, and by whose light we have been guided. Since man does not have it in him to direct his own paths, grant us the open heart and mind, the willing hand, to follow Thee in all sessions of this Grand Lodge. May Thy gracious presence be discerned in all relationships; may Thy knowledge be shed upon all items of routine and business; may the moments of inspiration be accepted as Thy means of wooing our souls to heavenly things, and our solemn thoughts of death and sorrow for departed comrades. Thy way of subduing our pride and quieting our restless spirits. Continue to employ our Most Worshipful Grand Master, and those associated with him in the government of this Body, as Thine own instruments of righteousness in spreading the cement of every moral and social virtue and in making brotherly love prevail among us. We commend to Thy keeping our wives and children. May no sickness call us home, and may no shadow of death come nigh our dwellings in our absence. Grant us freedom from anxiety, and strong determination to discharge our stewardship with patience, industry and zeal. Keep us mindful, our Father, of all duties to our country and to our neighbors. We pray for our United States, our President and representatives; for our state of Kansas, our governor and legislature now in session. We renew our pledge of loyalty to our beloved Flag, and our devout intention to be obedient to our laws. Knally, O GOD, teach us to know and serve Thee aright. Bless and prosper us in all our laudable undertakings, and grant, that all our conduct may tend t o Thy Glory, to the advancement of Masonry, and finally, to our salvation. Amen. WELCOME TO VISITORS.
The M.-.W.". Grand Master extended a cordial invitation to all Master Masons in good standing to attend this Annual Communication.
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
327
L E T T E R FROM GRAND REPRESENTATIVE.
A communication was received from R.'.W/. WALTER O. HAINES, Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of Kansas near the Grand Lodge of Oregon, extending greetings to this Grand Lodge. I N T R O D U C T I O N O F GRAND R E P R E S E N T A T I V E S .
The Grand Secretary called the roll of Grand Representatives near the Grand Lodge of Kansas, who were introduced by W.-. BENJAMIN F . HEIS, Grand Marshal, and were welcomed by the M.-. W.'. Grand Master. Suitable acknowledgment of the reception accorded them was made by M.-.W.-. WILLIAM L . BURDICK. REPORT OF C O M M I T T E E ON CREDENTIALS.
W.-. ROBERT H . MONTGOMERY, chairman, submitted the following report, which, on motion, was adopted: To The M:.W.:Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: Your Committee on Credentials begs leave to report the following members and representatives present and entitled to seats in this Grand Lodge: GRAND OFFICERS.
M.-.W.'.FERRIS M . HILL R.-. W.-. GEORGE F . BEEZLEY R.-. W.-.JAY B . KIRK R.-. W.-.JoHN M. KiNKBL
Grand Master. Deputy Grand Master. Grand Senior Warden. Grand Junior Warden.
R.-. W.'. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH M . - . W . ' . E L M E R F . STRAIN
Grand Treasurer. Grand Secretary.
R.-.W.'. ALBERT K . WILSON
Grand Secretary Emeritus.
Bro. and Rev. FRED E . BROOKS
Grand Chaplain.
W.'.J. FORREST AYRES W.-.ROSCOE E . PETERSON
Grand Senior Deacon. Grand Junior Deacon.
W.'.BENJAMIN F . H E I S
Grand Marshal.
W.'.GROVER C . URBANSKY W.-. CLARENCE M . CROSBY W.-.JosEPH C. HART W.-.HoMER T. HARDEN W.'.W. AMER BURNETT
Grand Grand Grand Grand Grand
Sword Bearer. Senior Steward. Junior Steward. Pursuivant. Tyler.
328
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SUB-OFFICERS.
Bro: WALLACE B . FLEMING
Grand Orator.
Bro. FREDERIC H . WILSON
Assistant to Grand Secretary.
Bro. HERBERT SMITH
Official Stenographer.
W.'. LAUREN D . RIGG
Assistant Grand Tyler.
W.-. HARVEY O . DAVIS W.'. STANFORD M . SMART W.\ CHARLES R . WELLS
Lecturer. Lecturer. Lecturer.
PAST GRAND MASTERS. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-.
M.-.W.-. B E N S . PAULEN M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-. M.-.W.-.
f^^;.°l
P E R R Y M . HOISINGTON THOMAS G . FITCH THOMAS L . BOND WILLIAM EASTON HUTCHISON ELRICK C . COLE WILLIAM L . BURDICK G I L E S H . LAMB
1901 1904 1906 1912 1913 1915 1916
,
1921
JOHN MCCULLAGH RICHARD E . B I R D ELMER F . STRAIN CHARLES A. LOUCKS JOHN W . NEILSON CHARLES N . FOWLER
1922 1923 1924 1925 1926 1927
DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTERS.
District No. RAYMOND A. N E V I N BENJAMIN F . H B I S HERBERT E . JULIEN CLAUD F . YOUNG EDGAR T . FOSTER JOHN F . WYATT CLARENCE E . BIRCH RALPH C . HENDERSON WILLIAM R . GRAHAM WALDEMAR V. RIESEN PAUL MADDEN '. OPHER L . E N G L E E. GLENN ROBISON JAMES H . BEEGLE FRANK A. BLAKSLEE CHRISTIAN C . KILIAN WILLIAM B . PENNY EDGAR L . G A N N THOMAS E . STAFFORD
2 3 5 8 9 10 13 16 17 19 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 29 30
District No. ROY H . WISE... VICTOR L . OWENS JAMES T . GRIFFING WILLIAM H . ANDERSON RAPHAEL A. COOK GEORGE M . LOWRY CLARENCE J. W E L L S DAVID A. NYWALL J O H N S . RIGG R A L P H M . HARDER L E W I S G . JENNINGS JOSEPH E . BREAKEY WILLIAM E . DILLINGER PASCHAL W . LUNDY BENJAMIN H . FLYR DAVID C . K A Y PAUL C . GARST CLARENCE G . N E V I N S HAROLD B . MUNSON
31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 41 .42 43 45 46 47 51 54 56 57 • 58
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
District No. JOHN B . FLEMING BARLUS ROMSTEDT ELMER S. NANCE KARL S. M C G R E W
59 60 63 65
329 District No.
GEORGE H . MOSS PAUL B . HOFFMANN ROBERT BIGHAM JAMES H . TRICE
67 68 71 75
GRAND R E P R E S E N T A T I V E S .
Alabama R.-. W.'-.JOHN M . KINKEL. Arizona W.''.W. AMER BURNETT. California M.\ W. -.WILLIAM EASTON HUTCHISON. Canada W.''.GEORGE 0 . FOSTER. Chile W.' . F R E D ROY ALFORD. Columbia W/ .ELLSWORTH B . SEWELL, J R . Colorado W.' .LAUREN D . RIGG. Cuba W.- . R O Y H . CLOSSEN. Delaware W.' .ELMER S. NANCE. District of Columbia M.-. W.- . F E R R I S M . H I L L . Ecuador R.-. W.- . J A Y B . K I R K . . England R.-. W.- • ALBERT K . WILSON. Florida M.-. W.-. ELMER F . STRAIN. Georgia W.-.. CLICK FOCKELE. Guatemala W. -. LuciAN L . CONSTANT. Illinois M.-.W.- . CHARLES N . FOWLER. Ireland W.'-.JOHN DAVIS. Kentucky W. -. ROBERT H . MONTGOMERY. Louisiana W.- . HOMER T . HARDEN. Maine M.-. W.- .RICHARD E . BIRD. Maryland W.- . MOSES H . COLE. Massachusetts M.-. W.- . WILLIAM L . BURDICK. Mexico (York Grand Lodge) ...R.-. W.-,.ALBERT K . WILSON. Michigan W. . J. FORREST AYRES. Missouri M.-.W. .PERRY M . HOISINGTON. Montana W.-..JAMES H . BEBGLE. Nebraska W. -.EARL T . PYLE. Nevada W.- . WILLIAM B . PENNY. New Brunswick W.''.HARRY E . PEACH. New Jersey W.'-.GUY W . BROWN. New York R.-. W.- . GEORGE F . BEEZLEY. North Carolina W.- . R. NELSON LONG. North Dakota W.- .BRUCE GRIFFITH. Nova Scotia M.-.W.''.JOHN MCCULLAGH. '. DAVID A. NYWALL. Oklahoma W:. CHARLEY B . ERSKINE. Oregon W.. JAMES A. CASSLER. Panama W.. R O Y G . SHEARER. Philippine Islands W.-, MARION M . MILLER. Prince Edward Islands W.-, . EDGAR T . POSTER. Puerto Rico W.-.
330
PROCEEDIWGS
Quebec Queensland Rhode Island Salvador Saskatchewan Scotland South Australia South Carolina South Dakota Tasmania Tennessee Texas Vermont Victoria Virginia Washington West Virginia Western Australia
OF THE
February,
W.-. CHARLES E . KESLER.
M.' . W . - . E L R I C K C . COLE. R.'. W.'. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH. W.-. BENJAMIN F . H E I S . W . - . J O H N B . FLEMING. W.-. HARVEY 0. DAVIS. W.-. RICHARD W . EVANS. W.-. OTTO R . SOUDERS. M.- .W.-. CHARLES A. LOUCKS. M / . W . - . B E N S. PAULEN. W.\ HUBERT H . HUBBARD. M.- .W.-. GILES H . LAMB. W.-. HENRY WALLENSTEIN. W.-. CLARENCE M . CROSBY. W.-.BARLUS ROMSTEDT. W.-. STANFORD M . SMART.
M.-,. W.-.JoHN W. NEILSON. M.' .W.-. THOMAS G . FITCH. PAST MASTERS.
JOSEPH L . ALLEN FRED T . N Y E ASA T . HOGB CHARLES R . MOORE BENJAMIN F . H E I S DAVID H . VANCE JAMES E . PORTER CHARLES L . HIXON GEORGE'O. FOSTER CLARENCE E . BIRCH JAMES SANDERLIN
FliED ROY ALFORD PAUL A. LANGE CHARLES G . W E S T EARL E . FAWCETT ERNEST V. LINDAMOOD ... EARL R . W E I M E R ALBERT H . THOMAS HARRY E . PEACH WILLIAM L . HUGGINS WILLIAM H . HARRISON... NATHAN B . THOMPSON ... SCOTT E . KELSEY GEORGE W . MCCLELLAND HERBERT E . J U H E N MARION M . MILLER CLICK FOCKELE
No.
1 2 2 2 2 3 3 5 6 6 7
8 9 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 ,12 17 17 17 19 26 27
NAPOLEON P. M A R C O U X . N O . N E D C . MATHEWS JOHN V. HANNAH CARL F . MATTMILLER ELLSWORTH B . SEWELL, J R . EVAN DAVIS RICHARD H . CRAVENS RAYMOND L . DELONG ROBERT H . MONTGOMERY JOSEPH F . SEYMOUR CHARLES O . VARNER JAMES L . MILLER CHARLES A. RBMY CLIFFORD O . AVEY HARRY E . ATCHISON CHARLES I. MORRIS WILLIAM NELSON RAY B . RAMSEY COLLINS A. ZIMMERMAN .. JAMES H . MURRELL CLARENCE E . M A U N E Y . . . H E N R Y W . HOYBR DONALD R . SMITH CURT R E L P H
34 39 46 50 51 51 60 63 63 68 74 79 80 86 86 86 90 90 90 90 90 91 95 95
R O Y G. SHEARER CHARLES M . ULSH FRED W . SMITH
98 99 99
1928-29.
GRAND LODGE OF
JAMES F. MCCOY No. OTTO R . SOUDERS CHENAULT C . GENTRY GLEN CHAMBERLAIN ROSS C . MCCORMICK LAURISTON D . WHITTIER HENRY KERNOHAN ARTHUR E . D U M A R S ROY H . CLOSSEN ARTHUR L . SEVERANCE... JOHN E . GILLETT CHARLES C . ARBY REUBEN A. VANDERWILT.. JOSEPH A. FULLER LESLIE E . LOSEY L E W I S N . GIBSON ELLIS F I N K CHARLES FLOYD HARVEY R . R E E D SYLVESTER L . BLAIR ARTHUR J. STARR HOMER L . WEBER JOHN DAVIS OLIVER E . RHOADBS FRANK O. DRUM LESTER W . BURNETT HARRY L . BURNETT DERRELL S . CALL EARL T . PYLB JOHN A. HETZEL WILLIAM S . D I X . . GUY W. BROWN THOMAS H . SMYTH PERRY E . MILLER GEORGE B . DEAN WILLIAM P. MURRELL GEORGE E. KAUFMAN WERNER B . LEVIN RICHARD E. THOES OLCOTT W . LITTLE JAMES A. CASSLER
99 99 99 99 99 99 99 102 102 102 104 105 105 106 107 109 110 116 117 117 120 122 129 129 132 133 133 134 134 142 142 145 145 150 150 150 158 158 161 161 172
LuciAN L. CONSTANT
173
WILBUR C . MARKLBY DENVER. C. CUSBY ELMER L . NEPTUNE HERBERT R . HULL W I L L I S M . HOAG
'
173 173 173 175 175
KANSAS.
LELAND P . CLARKE No. DANIEL WEYRICH EUGENE H . RENFRO CHARLES E . GOODMAN CHARLES E . PERSONETT .. JOHN SWANSON CHRISTIAN G . JORN FOREST G . REDMAN OSCAR E . R I F F E L HENRY W . JOHNSON GEORGE RUMMEL... GEORGE W . SUGGS HUBERT H . HUBBARD MOSES H . COLE CLARENCE H . WESTFALL.. GROVER C . BRITTAIN GEORGE C . L E I N E N EDWIN T. OLSON RICHARD W . EVANS TOM STAUTH CHARLES E . KESLER FRANK M . YEOMAN HUGH K I R K JOHN F . DAWSON MILTON E . MAYER WILLIAM E . TOLAND JOHN L . AMENT ASA OZIAS G E R E ROY G E R E HARVEY S . MCINTOSH HENRY L. GAMES BENJAMIN F . W E S T JAMES A. JENKINS ALVIN A . W I S E :.. EDWARD F . ANDERSON .... HAROLD N . NICHOLS CHARLEY B . ERSKINE HENRY ERVIN STEHLE ROBERT T E L F E R RICHARD L . MOORE VERNETTE H . COBB, HENRY WALLENSTBIN GIFFORD M . BOOTH BENJAMIN F . DUNKIN BRUCE GRIFFITH HENRY G . SEELYE ALVA L . M C D A N I E L
331 177 179 179 181 181 182 186 186 189 191 193 193 194 206 206 207 214 221 222 222 224 230 234 239 240 251 252 252 252 258 269 269 269 269 269 271 283 285 288 294 303 303 303 303 303 303 303
332
PROCEEDINGS
GEORGE M . LOWBRY No. BYRON W . OLIVER WILLIAM E . HAGGARD WILLIAM E . PATTON CHARLES R. DoLLiNfGS... WILLIAM A. WEIKAMP JOSEPH H . CONARD CALVIN C . R E E D GEORGE F . WASHBURN .... VICTOR M . DOZE CHARLES R . P E T E R S O N . . . H E N R Y WORKENTINE OSCAR L . KISTLER P E T E R H . BESTHORN DANIEL C . BAER HARRY G . VBTTER WALTER P. REGIBR WILLIAM M . GLENN MAURICE HARDENBROOK.. JOHN M . H Y D E WARREN E . N E E D EVERETT G . SHELLENBEEGER CLARENCE E . BARNUM B E R T E . PORTER CHARLES K E S L
303 307 307 309 309 311 316 316 319 319 321 322 326 343 346 346 346 352 357 357 361 361 361 361 362
OF THE
February,
CHARLES W . RICKARD No. CHARLES C. SAMUELS GUY E . WARNER CLARE S . LOCKWOOD D E E RICKARD CHARLES HIEBSCH OSCAR A. BROWN CoRWiN H. M C M A H A N . . . LoREN GILLBTT ANDREW 0 . BARNES BAYARD J. LONG PHILLIP H . PHILLIPS ROY BAIRD H E N R Y E . FLICKINGER .... EARL E . MERRIWEATHER LAVELLE C. HICKS J. WiLBER WELLS WILLIS E . BENJAMIN CLYDE S . SHELLEY ELMER C . BEEZLEY WILLIAM J. BAUERLE HERBERT W . STUBBS JAMES A. CARTER WILLIAM KIMBALL ERNEST C . FRIESEN
364 364 376 378 378 378 383 388 394 398 409 409 414 416 423 424 432 432 433 433 433 435 435 439 445
LODGE REPRESENTATIVES. Smiihton
No. 1.—PAUL
H . GUTHRIE, M . , proxy for S. W.;
JOSEPH
L. ALLEN, proxy for J. W. Leavenworth No. 2.—CHARLES
L . HAMMOND, M . ; ORVILLE R . HOBBS,
S. W.; M. L E E HOBBS, J. W. Wyandotte No. S.—WILLIAM
J. RONEY, M . ; JACOB SCHOLL, proxy for
S..W.; CLARENCE C . CRAWFORD, J. W.
Washington No. 5.—GEORGE A. BLAKESLEE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Lawrence No. 6.—^GEORGE D . WALL, M . , proxy for J . W.; Ross H. CLAYTON, S . W . Union No. 7.—ROLAND V. BLANCHARD, M . , proxy for J. W.; SANDERLIN, proxy for S. W.
JAMES
Rising Sun No. 8.—CHARLES W . WILLIAMS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Acacia No. 9.—ROBERT C . ARDREY, M . , proxy for S. W.; ORA H . King
STOCKWELL, J. W. Solomon No. 10.-—WILLIAM T . WAHLER, M . ; VALENTINE A. HANK, S . W . ; VIRGXI. C . LURKER, J. W.
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
333
Emporia No. 12.—JOHN A. MYERS, M . , proxy for J. W.; WILLIAM G . ROBERTS, S . W .
Great Bend No. 15.—PRICE BONDURANT, M . , proxy for J. W.; ALVA H. JOHNSON, proxy for S. W. Lafayette No. 16.—CLARENCE
O . PRICE, M . ; ARTHUR J. ANDERSON,
S. W.; N E I L DOUGHERTY, J. W. Topeka No. 17.—GEORGE
E . SEYBOLD, M . ; ULYSSES U . SHOAF, S . W . ;
MYRON S . KELSEY, J. W.
Ottawa No. 18.—FREDERICK F . DODSON, proxy for M.; BABLUS ROMSTEDT, proxy for S. W. and J. W. Olathe No. 19.—BRITTON A. POWELL, M . , proxy for S. W.; ROY OEVANS, J. W.
Circleville No. 20.—ScOTT H. KLUSMIRB, S. W . , proxy for M. and J. W Valley Falls No. 21.—EMIL 0 . GUTSCH, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Longton No. 26.—GLENN W . SMITH, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Neosho No. 27.—RoY D. FINLEY, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W. Arcana No. 31.—FRANK CASE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Havensville No. 3^.—JOHN HARRIS, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Hiawatha No. 35.—RoscoE T. NICHOLS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Paola No. 37.—FRED L . RAND, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. lola No. 38.—EVERETT L . REMSBERG, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Seneca No. 39.—JOHN J. VON ARB, M . , proxy for J. W.; FLOYD S. CARPENTER, S . W .
De Soto No. JfO.—JOHN A. GIBBNER, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.. Holton No. i2.—IRVIN M . BELCHER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Nickerson No. 1^3.—CLARENCE J. BRYANT, proxy for M.; FRED G . ScHARDiNE, S. W.; FRANK A. MCFARLAND, proxy for J. W. Mackey No. U8.—ESTEL C . FISHER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Nine Mile No. ^9.—RAYMOND E . FULCHER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Lake No. 50.—CARL F . MATTMILLEB, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Orient No. 51.—HUGH
B . MCGRATH, M . ; SHERMAN T . BOURASSA,
S. W.; ISAAC BARNUM, J. W.
Pottawatomie No. 52.—SAMUEL S. SHANNON, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W. Wetmore No. 53.—IVAN LYNN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Troy No. 55.—Louis LARSON, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Spring Hill No. 56.—FRANK W . COLE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. McCracken No. 58.—SCOTT S. YAWGER, M . ; BENJAMIN P. STEINSHOUER, proxy for S. W. ; JOHN I. EDWARDS, proxy for J. W.
334
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
Saltville No. 59.—LEE HARSHBARGER, M . , proxy for J. W.; G. TOWNSEND, S. W. Salina No. 60.—CHARLES
February, WILLIAM
A. BROOM, M . , proxy for S. W.; LAUREN C .
HousBL, proxy for J. W. La Cygne No. 61.—WALTER
P . CLINE, M . , proxy for J. W.;
HOWARD
L. CLARKE, proxy for S. W. Ridgeway No. 62.—FRED
A. VINCENT, M . ; JOSEPH H . COFFMAN, S . W . ;
JOHN A. CORDTS, proxy for J. W. Adams
No. 63.—FAIRFAX
BARNES, M . , proxy for S. W.;
ROY E .
GREER, J. W. Wathena No. 61,.—CHARLES E . HARGIS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Gardner No. 65.—JAMES
A. WILLIAMS, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Burlington No. 66.—RAY S . PIERSON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Frankfort No. 67.—LEW
A. LITEL, M . ; FREDERICK W . KEMPER, S. W . ;
OLIVER L . DALTON, proxy for J. W. Hiram No. 68.—WILLIAM
A. RUMFORD, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W.
Carbondale No. 70.—RALPH Huron No. 72.—GEORGE
H . BADGER, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
EARL STABLER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Chetopa No. 73.—THOMAS D. SHAW, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Mystic
Tie No.
7J,.—FRANK
E . WHEELER,
M . , proxy for J.
W.;
EDWIN C . MCCRAY, proxy for S. W. Wamego No. 75.—FRANK Erie No. 76.—WILLIAM
A. PIXLEY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. E . KNOX, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Delta No. 77.—ARTHUR
A. MARTIN, M . , proxy for J. W.; JANVIER F .
SKINNER, proxy for S. W. Corinthian No. 79.—ROBERT Zeredatha No. 80.—JOHN
D . OLIVER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
MANN, J R . , M . ; RAYMOND A. HUMISTON,
S. W.; FRANK C . MAILEN, J. W. New Albany No. 81.—JOHN
W. FULLER, M . , proxy for S. W.;
CECIL
L. JORDAN, proxy for J. W. Sutton No. 85.—CHARLES
L . HALL, M . , proxy for S. W.; WILLIAM A .
REBOUL, proxy for J. W. Sunflower No. 86.—BENJAMIN
F . HULL, M . ; GLEN THOMAS, S . W . ;
HARRISON O . BYERS, J. W. Eureka No. 88.—HARLAN Home No. 89.—ARTHUR
I. ABBEY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. E . MYERS, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
Golden Rule No. 90.—WILLIAM
C . WELLS, M . ; HOWARD H . HUFFMAN,
S. W.; BEAMER M . NELSON, J. W. Marysville
No.
91.—LUTHER
G . HOWARD, M . ; JOHN I. BRANDEN-
BURGER, proxy for S. W.; FRANK J . OLSON, proxy for J. W. Devon No. 92.—ALTON
E . KILLION, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Girard No. 93.—JAMES
H . LUDLOW, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
335
Harmony No. 9U.—CLARENCE A, MCCULLOUGH, M . , proxy for J. W.; ARTHUR K . REPPERT, S . W . Constellation No. 95.—WILLIAM
0 . STARNS, M . , proxy for J. W.; CURT
RELPH, S. W . Delaware No. 96.—MILTON
E . DINGWERTH, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Patmos
No. 97.—EwiN
L. FALKNER,
M . ; KING HAMER JOLLIFFE,
S. W.; ROBERT M . MCCAULEY, J. W. Benevolent No. 98.—EDDIE Wichita
No.
H . MYERS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
99.—MONTE
J. SWEET,
M . ; JOHN N . F R E E , S . W . ;
CLARENCE L . WALZ, J. W. Keystone
No. 102.—WILLIAM
proxy for S. W.;
O'DAY,
M . ; ARTHUR L . SEVERANCE,
ARTHUR E . D U M A R S , proxy for J. W.
Cedar No. 103.—EVERETT
R . LLOYD, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Frontier No. lOi.—JAMES
E . MCCONCHIE, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Solomon City No. 105.—IVAN R . WOOD, M . ; CHARLES C . AREY, proxy for S. W.; REUBEN A. VANDERWILT, proxy for J. W. Fidelity
No. i06.-:—WILLIAM F . LOVELESS, M . ; JOSEPH W . LOEBEL, proxy for S. W.; RICHARD R . HUMPHREY, proxy for J. W.
Fortitude No. 107.—CHARLES
H . M C W H I R T , M . ; JOHN F . PERDUE,
proxy for S. W.; LEWIS S . GECKELBR, J. W. Memphis No. iOS.—FRANK L . PFEIFFER, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W. Americus No. 109.—JAKE E . BAMBSBEEGER, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Winfield No. 110.—WILLIAM C . HILL, M . ; C . EDWIN GRAHAM, S . W . ; R . ELLIS HUDSON, J. W. Hesperian No. 111.—AARON E . STOVALL, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Blue Valley No. 112.—CLYDE H . WELLS, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W. St. John's No. 113.—JOHN
MARK LAYTON, proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. Advance No. Hi.—WILLIAM
R . ICE, proxy for M.; EARL JAMES, S . W . ;
JACK VAN SICKLE, J. W. Parsons No. 117.—^CLAUDE E . KINZIE, M . , proxy for J. W.; WILLIAM F. ENGLER, proxy for S. W. Clifton No. 122.—MAXWELL
DOLAN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Cawker City No. 125.—FRED
C . SIMPSON, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W.
Meridian No. 126.—JOHN W . RANSOM, M . , proxy for J. W.; MURRAY G. DERRAGE, S . W . Munden No. 128.—GLENN A. STRANSKY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
336
PROCEEDINGS
Belleville No. 1Z9.—JOHN
OF THE
February,
B . NEALEIGH, S. W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
Polar Star No. 130.—RAY
T . SCHAFFER, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Equity No. 131.—HENRY
O . MATHEWS, M . , proxy for J. W.; EDWARD
F . HERATY, S. W . Carson No. 132.—ROBERT
H . STEPHENS, M . ; PAUL E . PINKSTON,
S. W.; THOMAS W . GOODWIN, J. W. Crescent No. 133.—EARL
A. VOORHIS, M . ; FRANK O . HERBERT, S . W . ;
WILLIAM F . SHEA, J. W. Clay Center No. 131,.—GEORGE
S . SLADE, M . , proxy for J. W.;
V.
ROYAL VEBGADES, S . W . Lenexa No. 135.—ROGER
H . STEPHENSON, M . , proxy for J. W.; HIRAM
S. SEIGRIST, proxy for S. W. Vesper No. 136^—MCKINLEY Dover No. 138.—EDGAR
L . JONES, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
W . FISHER, S. W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
Sedgwick No. 139.—MORGAN Reno No. HO.—A.
D . BUSH, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
LEWIS OSWALD, M . ; OSCAR R . SLAVENS, proxy
for S. W.; CALEB L . KIRBY, J. W. Newton No. H2.—JOHN
T . ALDERTON, M . , proxy for J. W.; CLAYTON
A. YOUNG, S . W . Mt. Vernon No. H5.—FRANK Ellsworth No. H6.—JESSE
A. SLACK, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
R . MORRELL, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Center No. 11,7.—Ross E L L I S CHAPMAN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Wa-Keeney
No: H8.—HUGH
R . WONNER, M . ; HERBERT M . LUCAS,
proxy for S. W.; L E E W . HINSHAW, J. W. Thayer No. 1J,9.—HARVEY
G . LOWRANCE, proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. Wellington No. 150.—ALBERT Douglass No. 151.—AUBERT
KABLIN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J= W. D . PITTS, M . ; ALVA F . SCHOOLING, S . W . ;
. KERMIT M . COX, J. W. Leho No. 152.—JACOB
O . WILLIAMS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Lincoln No. 151,.—JOHN
H . GILES, M . ; DORIS M . RALSTON, S . W . ;
IVAN D . LYON, proxy for J. W. Hope No. 155.—CLARENCE
E . THOMPSON, proxy for M. and J. W.;
WILLIAM M . ENDICOTT, proxy for S. W. Haven No. 157.—JAY
HILTON, S. W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
Active No. 158.—WALTER
HOY, M . ; GEORGE A. M C K I N N E Y , S . W . ;
EDWARD B . LEATH, J . W . Robinson No. 159.—JESSE E . LOW, S . W .
A. PETTY, proxy for M. and J. W.; CHARLES
'
Saqui No. 160.—RussELL M. BAYS, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W. Alma No. 161.—HENRY
S . STIERS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Sabetha No. 162.—CHARLES
V. HAYNES, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
1928-29.
GHAND
LODGE OF KANSAS.
337
Atwood No. 16Jf.—VICTOR C . M C C A I N , S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W. Oxford No. 165.—MARSHALL
O . SWAIM, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Lamed No. 167.—BENJAMIN
H . SOOBY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Blue Rapids No. 169.—JAMBS M . SHAW, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Sterling No. 171.—RENE
A. BOURGAIN, M . , proxy for J. W.; JOHN M .
FREDERICK, proxy for S. W. McPherson No. 172.—SORBN SORENSEN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Belle Plaine No. i73.^jESSE C. WALTON, M . , proxy for J. W.; BRADFORD BROOKS, S . W . Western Star No. 17i.—THEODORE A. WENDTLAND, M . , proxy for
S. W. and J. W. Kirwin No. 175.—BERT A. JOHNSON, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W. Burr Oak No. 178.—IRVING A. OVERMAN, proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. Mt. Moriah No. 179.—DONALD
K . KERR, M . ; OTTO A. M C K I L L I P ,
S. W.; L E W I S M . SCHRADBR, J. W. Lenora No. 181.—CARL
E . GEORGESON, M . ; WILLIAM T . SKAGGS,
S. W.; CHARLES E . GOODMAN, J. W. Burrton No. 182.—LLOYD I. BAUGHMAN, M . , proxy for J. W.; M. EDSON WILLIAMS, S . W . Phillipsburg No. ISi.—WARREN J. SWARTOUT, M . , proxy for S. W.
and J. W. Hamlin
No. 185.—LENORA
G . JENKINS, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Mountain Slope No. 186.—J. RALPH CLARK, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Pittsburg No. 187.—JOHN
G . SIMMS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Onaga No. 188.—-LESTER
C . IRWIN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Newahcuba No. 189.—JOHN
J. W.
F . WIELAND, M . , proxy for S. W. and
,
Henri No. 190.—WILLIAM
HEYNEN, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Walnut Valley No. 191.—HOWARD
S. WHITFIELD, M . ; VERNON S .
STROBEL, S . W . ; WILLIAM B . LEVAN, J.- W. Royal No. 192.—JOSEPH
E . T E N E R , S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
Hartford No. 193.—ELMER
RICH, M . ; PETER F . RICH, proxy for S. W.;
VERNON GRIFFITH, . J. W . Galena No. 191,.—WILLIAM T . HAMLET, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Hays No. 195.—HARRY
A. GIRTON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Blue Hill No. iSS.—TEDDIE T . CADE, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Norton No. 199.—WALTER
J. W.
L . HENDRICKSON, M . , proxy for S. W. and
338
PROCEEDINGS
Anthony No. 200.—CLARENCE
OF THE
February,
E . HOOPES, M . , proxy for J. W.; ADEL-
BERT B . BUCK, S . W . Sumner No. 203.—LEONARD L . FISHER, M . , proxy for J. W.; HAROLD A. HAMMOND, proxy for S. W. Downs No. 20i.—NORMAN W . NIXON, M . ; ARTHUR I. HULL, proxy for S. W.;
HARRY W . ORTEL, J. W.
Harper No. 206.—CLAUDE
C . BRYANT, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Brookville No. 209.—ERNEST
W . LINDQUIST, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Fulton No. 210.—HARRY
L . WOODS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Olive Branch No. 212.—CLAUDE
R . LAWRENCE, M . , proxy for S. W-
and J. W. Twin Grove No. 213:—JAMES H . DRAKE, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. WSincerity
No. 2H..—HOLLY
D . PRICKETT, proxy for M.; S. W. and
J. W. Walnut City No. 215.—THOMAS
E . GOUGH, proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. Ellinwood No. 217.—EDWARD
SESSLER, M . , proxy for S. W.;
PAUL
B. VEACH, J. W. Lewis No. 220.—HOSEA C. DEN'NEY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Lebanon No. 221.—DAY
B . GREEN, S . W . , proxy for M.;
CARL G .
ABERG, J. W. St. Bernard No. 222.—CECIL for S. W.;
E . .DAVIS, M . ; ELBY O . LOLLAR, proxy
GLEN A. GILBERT, J. W.
Joppa No.,223.—CHARLES
T . DIXON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Anchor No. 221^.—CECIL O . DRUM, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Siloam
No. 225.—GEORGE
L . WEIGAND, M . ; WILLIAM A. HARSH-
BARGER, S. W.; DEAN STANLEY SMITH, J. W. Jamestown No. 227.—E. LOWELL HOUGHTON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
-
Vulcan No. 229.—ALBERT
L . COGHILL, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Ninnescah No. 230.—GEORGE
W . CURRY, M . ; J O E J. MORRIS, S. W . ;
FRANK M . YEOMAN, proxy for J. W. Clinton No. 233.—JOSIAH
H . N E I L L , M . , proxy for J. W.; ALFRED W .
SKINNER, S . W . Axtell No. 23U.—FRANK
A. WERNER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Temple No. 237.—ERNEST Urbana No. 239.—JOHN
P. CHRISTY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
W . KNETZER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Soldier No. 2i.O.—RAYMOND H . FISKE, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Linwood No. 2Jfl.—OMAR 0 . BROWNING, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Miltonvale No. 21,2.—STANLEY W . LLOYD, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W,
1928-29.
GRAND
Peace No. 2i3.—GLOYD
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
339
MCDOWELL, S . W . , proxy for M.; HOWARD
COOPER, J. W. Marmaton No. 2i5.—CHESTER
A. DICKINSON, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Tyrian No. 2^6.—RALPH W . HOSKINSON, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Chase No. 21,7.—ARLYN D . STEWART, J. W., proxy for M.; JOHN A. MCFARLAND, proxy for S. W. Canopy No. 21,8.—LEONARD L . SNODGRASS, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Stafford No. 252.—HARRY
E . BLEVINS, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W.
Oakley No. 253.—WALTER
E . PRATHER, M . , proxy for J. W.; JOHN R .
MINGLE, S . W . Ionic No. 251,.—WILLIAM C . RADKE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Westmoreland No. 257.—WILLIAM
B , HART, M . , proxy for J. W.; GLENN
H. FRITZLER, SI W . Morton No. 258.—STEEL
R . NORTHCUTT, M . ; JOHN E . SMITH, S . W . ;
WILLIAM C . PRICE, proxy for J. W. Beattie No. 259.—ROLAND
S . WEAVER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Mulberry No. 261.—^R. WORTH SMILIE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Charily No. 263.—FRED
C . MONTGOMERY,
M . , proxy for S. W.;
CHARLES S . WILLIAMS, J. W. Logan No. 261,.—GROVER W . WILLS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Kilwinning
No. 265.—ROY
L . MILLER, M . ; PAUL C . GARST, proxy
for S. W.; FORREST GROSSMAN, proxy for J. W. Mount Zion No. 266.—THOMAS
H . FLEAR, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. ' Mistletoe No. 269.—ANDREW
G . SMALL, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Quenemo No. 270.—ELMER
WILEY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Armourdale No. 271.—CHARLES
H . SMITH, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Kaw No. 272.—RuFus
S. CRAVENS, proxy for M. and S. W.; AARON
T, STUCKEY, J. W. Unity No. 273.—WILLIAM
SCHWEISBERGER, proxy for M. and J. W.;
ALBERT POPP, SR., proxy for S. W. 1^666 No. 275.—FRANCIS
W . BROWN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Ashland .No. 277.—WILLIAM
W . GULP, proxy for M.
and
J. W.;
HARRY B . CHRISTMAN, proxy for S. W. Cosmos No. 278.—PiERSON H. GRISWOLD, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W. Antiquity No. 280.—VICTOR L . OWENS, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Millbrook No. 281.—WILL J. W.
C . MCCORMICK, M . , proxy for S. W. and
340
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Alpha No. 2SJ2.—ROY C . KINGSLEY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Preston No. 283.—GARREL
E . BUTCHER,
M . ; FRANK W . TOLAND,
S. W.; ALLEN G . CHAPLIN, proxy for J. W. Anthem No. 28U.—ROBERT
I. R U T H , M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Argonia No. 285.—LLOYD
B . MITCHELL, M . ; SHERMAN B . JOHNSON,
S. W.; CHARLES F . MERIDITH, J. W. Lotus No. 286.—AUDLEY Oak No. 287.—FRANK
F . BRADLEY, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. A. HART, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Cyrus No. 288.—WILLIAM
R . WARING, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Emerald No. 289.—JOSEPH Paradise No. 290.—JACK
C . HART, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. BENEDICK, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Glasco No. 292.—NORMAN
H . JORDAN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Kiowa No. 293.—CLAUDE
H . BECKETT, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Glen Elder No. 29^.—ALFRED Com,anche No. 295.—KARL
L . MORE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
G . EHRLICH, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Highland No. ;296.—CHRISTIAN C . KILLIAN, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Apollo No. 297.—CHARLES
A. BAUGHER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Samaria No. 298.—JAMES
D . LAMBERT, M . , proxy for J. W.; ARTHUR
A. JELLISON, proxy for S. W. Cable No. 299.—JAMES Fargo No. 300.—RAY
PENNINGTON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. B . SMITH, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Hamilton No. 301.—EUGENE
NOBLE, M . , . proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Gove City No. 302.—RICHARD
H . THOMPSON, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Albert Pike No. 503.—CHARLES F . LATCHAW, M . ; FRED L . LITTLE, S. W.; RICHARD M . ADENAUER, J. W. Randall No. 30i.—JOSEPH
P . STINSON, M . , proxy for J. W.; L E E J.
NICHOLS, proxy for S. W. Avon No. 305.—-GEORGE L . LIZER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. St. Thomas No. 306.—HERBERT
D . RANDELL, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Kansas No. 307.—CHARLES
S. FORBES, M . ; BYRON W . OLIVER, proxy
for S. W.; THORNTON D . SCOTT, J. W. Alden No. 308.—EARL
S . BROWN, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Syracuse No. 309.—JAMES
B . HAMMOND, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Naphtali No. 310.—Louis G. HALL, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Hancock No. 311.—RUSSELL
P . REEDER, M . ; HARRY M . BAPFORD,
S. W.; EDWARD D . THURMAN, proxy for J. W. Santa Fe No. 312.—LEWIS
A. DEMUTH, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W.
Severance No. 313.—WILLIAM
H . SWIM, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W.
Hebron No. 311,.—JOSEPH 0 . MURPHY, J. W., proxy for M. and S. W,
1928-29.
GRAND
Virginia No. 315.—HENRY
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
341
C . PENNINGTON, M . , proxy for S. W.; FRED
H. TEAS, J. W.
Coolidge No. 316.—ORVILLE R . KENDRICK, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Norcatur No. 317.—JACOB R . BBTTS, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Wallace No. 318.—LESLIE I. BURDICK, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Norwich No. 319.—HARRY proxy for S. W.;
A. ZIMMERMAN, M . ; VICTOR M . DOZE,
CLYDE M . DIBBENS, J. W.
Vermillion No. 320.—PETER H . HYBSKMANN, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Goodland No. 321.—MOSES C . PARKER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Ben Hur No. 32^.—ARTHUR R . ECKMAN, M . , proxy for J. W.; HERBERT E. JUSTUS, S. W .
Oneida No. 323.—WAYNE
H . ANDERSON, M . , proxy for J. W.; RALPH
J. WOOD, S. W .
La Harpe No. 325.—ARTHUR E . NICHOLAS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Horton No. 326.—PETER O . CAYLOR, proxy for M. and J. W.; OSCAR L. KiSTLER, proxy for S. W. Gypsum City No. 328.—JONATHAN SCHMITTER, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Arcadia No. 329.—HENRY M . PETERS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. La Crosse No. 330.—WILLIAM A. DREANY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Rosedale No. 333.—^JOHN A. WHITTY, M . , proxy for J. W.; ROY W . SWOPE, S. W .
.
Formoso No. 336.—^EARL L . BROWN, M . , proxy for J. W.; CHARLES E. HOWLAND, proxy for S. W. Frederick No. 337.—MELL F . BLAIR, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Kincaid No. 338.—DAN F . WILLIAMS, S. W . , proxy for M. and J. W. Leoti No. SlfO.—JOHN KELLER, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Holyrood No. 31f3.—FRED W . SHIPLEY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Ashlar No. 3^.—AUGUST E. SCHATTENBURG, M . ; STEVEN A. SARGENT, S. W.;
WALTER H . BOHNENBLUST, J. W.
Edna No. 3U5.—^ISAAC A. BABB, M . , proxy for S. W. and "J. W. Moundridge No. 3Jf6.—DAVID L. HARDER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Hoxie No. 3U8.—IRA L . VINSON, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Narka No. 3.49.—WALTER J. DANIELS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Olive No. 330.—CHESTER C . HOUSTON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Scammon No. 351.—JAMES MoON, M., proxy for S. W. and J. W. Horace No. 352.—THOMAS P . TUCKER, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Marquette No. 353.—FLOYD L . YARNELL, S. W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
342
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Wellsville No. 556.—CARL G . D E TAR, M . ; DAVID W . BATDORF, S . W . ; DONALD E . COUGHLIN, proxy for J. W. AUa Vista No. 357.—CARL
H . MCLAUGHLIN, M . ; MAURICE HARDEN-
BROOK, proxy for S. W.; JOHN M . HYDE, proxy for J. W. Sylvan Grove No. 359.—EDWARD
Jennings No. 360.—CHESTER Geneseo No. 361.—JOHN
NOVAK, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
I . LAW, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
E . MOCK, M . , proxy for J. W.;
HERMAN
L. HANDLIN, S . W . Cuba No. 362.—JERRY
P. HAVEL, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Powhaitan No. 363.—DANIEL
A. ZIMMERMAN, proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. Valley Center No. 36U.—CASSIUS
M . SANDUSKY, M . , proxy for S. W.
and J. W. Baling No. 365.—JOHN
E . PETERS, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Bonner Springs No. 366.—JOHN J. W. Plains No. 367.—CHESTER
C . DAVID, M . , proxy for S. W. and
G . WALLACE, S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
Stohrville No. 368.—CLEM
LIVENGOOD, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Maple Hill No. 370.—HOWARD Macksville No. 371.—FRED
ADAMS, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
MCREYNOLDS, M . , proxy for J. W.; ROLLO
G. ULSH, S . W . Morrill No. 373.—RAY
H . MICKEY, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Dwight No. 371,.—SIDNEY
F . DASHER, M . , proxy for S. W.;
LEWIS
E. EULER, J. W. Grand View No. 376.—THOMAS
E . VINCENT, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Zenda No. 378.—THOMAS Buffalo
D . MCVICKER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
No. 379.—FRANCIS
SALE, M . , proxy for J. W.;
TRUEMAN
FINLEY, proxy for S. W. White City No. 380.—VIRGIL
A. GIRTCH, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Grainfield No. 381.—VALLIE
L . ROBERTSON, proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. McDonald No. 383.—WILEY
R . GAINES, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Protection No. 38i.—PAUL
F . CRUM, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Piper No. 385.—GEORGE
A. STEPHENSON, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Emmett
No. 387.—CARL
W . PAGE, M . , proxy for J. W.;
ARTHUR
TREZISE, S. W . Spearville No. 388.—J. VIVIAN STEWART, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Freeport No. 389.—GRANT
BURTON, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Naioma No. 390.—WILLIAM Sylvia No. 391.—ROBERT
M . W H I T E , S . W . , proxy for M. and J. W.
J. YUST, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
343
Mayetta No. 393.—EDSON J. LUNGER, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W. Coats No. S9i.—EARL
W . MOORE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Saffordville No. 395.—LEE
R . OBLEY, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Wakefield No. 396.—GLENN
E . MALE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Lindsborg No. 397.—ARTHUR
C . OLSON, M . , proxy for J. W.;
DAVID
M. ELVING, proxy for S. W.
MuUinville No. 399.—IRVIN R. FRALICK, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Wakarusa No. ^02.—DENNIS
CLARK, proxy for M., S. W. and J. W.
Saint Francis No. ItOJ,.—BENJAMIN G . HARRISON, M . , proxy for S. W.
and J. W. Kensington No. U05.—ROGER E . GIBSON, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Hugoton No. ^06.—JOHN
A. O ' D E L L , M . , proxy for S. W.; HAROLD
H. HiTCHINGS, J. W. Arma No. ^08.—JOHN
MOROZZO, M . , proxy for S. W.;
THOMAS C .
KLEIN, J. W. Haviland No. U09.—EARL H . SWAIM, M . ; EZRA M . LONG, S. W . ; THEODORE R . BRYANT, J, W. Climax No. lyll.—JOHN H . LUNSFORD, proxy for M. and J. W.; GLENN H. RICE, S . W . Ensign No. U13.—HARRISON E . RALL, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Morland No. Ullt-—HENRY
PRATT, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Perry No. U15.—WILLIAM
E . CAIN, proxy for M. and S. W.;
PAUL
H. GALBRAITH, proxy for J. W. King David No. ^16.—WILLIAM
H . POWELL, proxy for M., S. W. and
J. W. Sharon Springs No. Itl7.—CLARENCE
O . LUTZ, M . , proxy for J. W.;
VOLNEY M . BORST, proxy for S. W. Codell No. il8.—PAUL
NETHERLAND, J R . , M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
Delia No. 1,19.—EVERETT MITCHELL, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Lecompton No. 420.—FREDRICK B . HILL, J. W., proxy for
M. and
S. W. Harveyville No. 1,21.—CHARLES A. TABER, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Elkhart No. U22.—WILLIAM J. BLACKBURN, M . , proxy for S. W. and
J. W. Selden No. 1,23.—FRED
L . STROHWIG, M . , proxy for J. W.; EARL E .
MERRIWEATHER, proxy for S. W.
Claflin No. 1,21,.—JOHN L . HAMILTON, proxy for'M., S. W. and J. W. Turner No. 1,25.—GROVER F . JACKS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Richmond No. 1,26.—EARL L . EDWARDS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J . W. Burdick No. 1,29.—ALBERT R . WALLACE, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Deerfield No. 1,32.—WILLIAM T . KELL, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W.
344
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
Februarj-.
Bestor G. Brown No. i33.—LYLE H . PLANT, M . ; CHARLES HIEBSCH, proxy for S. W.; HARRY JONES, proxy for J. W. Rosalia No. USlt.—HAROLD J. PENDERGRASS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Ulysses No. AS5.—HERBERT W . STUBBS, proxy for M., S. W. and J . W. Overland Park No. 136.—HARVEY C . PHILLIPS, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Enterprise No. i37.—CARL E . MEYER, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. West Gate No. ^5S.—WILLIAM C . F R Y E , M . , proxy for S. W. and J . W. Bendena No. HO.—GROVER L . FRANKLIN, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. Johnson No. W.—GARRELT C . MILLSAP, proxy for M; VIRGIL C . STEWART, S. W . ; JOHN S. WORTMAN, J. W.
Kanorado No. UUS.—GEORGE W . YOUNG, M . , proxy for S. W. and J . W. Hutchinson
No. ii5.—OLIN
H . TAYLOR, M . ; WILLIAM D . P . CAREY,
S. W.; WILLARD J. GRABER, J. W. Satanta No. US.—GEORGE
O . POND, M . ; JAMES S . PATRICK, proxy
for S. W.; CHARLES S . RENO, proxy for J. W.
Kingsdown No. UUf-—FRED W . ' H I S S , M . , proxy for J. W.; ROY C . HALEY, S. W .
Grinnell No. UU8.—JOHN E . BORAH, M . , proxy for S. W. and J. W. RECAPITULATION.
Grand Officers present Past Elective Grand Officers present Past Masters present (Exclusive of any Grand or Past Elective Grand Officers or District Deputy Grand Masters). District Deputy Grand Masters present Representatives of Lodges present (Exclusive of any Grand or Past Elective Grand Officers, District Deputy Grand Masters, or Past Masters). Total representation in Grand Lodge Grand Representatives present Number of Lodges represented Number of Lodges not represented Total number of Lodges on rolls
16 14 195 46 496 767
58 329 118 447
Fraternally submitted, ROBERT H . MONTGOMERY, WILLIAM H . POWELL, RICHARD W . EVANS,
ROY G . SHEARER, GUY W . BROWN, Committee.
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
•
345
STANDING COMMITTEES.
The M.-.W.-. Grand Master announced the appointment of the following revised list of Committees: On Credentials.—ROBERT
H . MONTGOMERY, N O . 63, Oswego;
WILLIAM H . POVSTELL, N O . 416, Chanute; RICHARD W . EVANS, N O . 222,
Dodge City; ROY G . SHEARER, N O . 98, Abilene; GUY W . BROWN, NO. 145, Beloit. On Reports of Grand Officers.—JOHN W . NEILSON, No. 113, Concordia; HERBERT R . HULL, NO. 175, Kirwin; LUCIAN L . CONSTANT, No. 173, Belle Plaine; GEORGE W . SUGGS, NO. 193, Hartford. On Finance and Property.—EARL T . PYLE, NO. 134, Clay Center; MOSES H . COLE, N O . 206, Harper;
WILLIAM B . PENNY, N O . 80,
Cottonwood Palls; CHARLES E . KBSLER, N O . .224, Williamsburg; GEORGE W . MCCLELLAND, NO. 17, Topeka. On Jurisprudence.—WILLIAM L . HUGGINS, No. 12, Emporia; ELRICK C . COLE, No. 15, Great Bend; JOHN MCCULLAGH, N O . 194, Galena; OTTO R . SOUDERS, NO. 99, Wichita; GEORGE O . FOSTER, N O . 6, Lawrence. On Chartered Lodges and Lodges U. D.—ELLSWORTH B . SEWELL, JR., N O . 51, Topeka; JOHN DAVIS, N O . 129, Belleville; WILLIAM A. WBIKAMP, NO. 311, Fort Leavenworth. On Correspondence.—ALBERT K . WILSON, No. 51, Topeka. On Necrology.—HARRY E . PEACH, NO. 12, Emporia. SPECIAL COMMITTEES. On Revision of Laws.—ALBERT K . WILSON, N O . 51, Topeka; ELRICK C . COLE, NO. 15, Great Bend. On History of Grand Lodge.—ALBERT K . WILSON, NO. 51, Topeka.
346
.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE
February,
GRAND MASTER'S ADDRESS. M.-. W.-. FEBRIS M . HILL delivered the following address, which, on motion of W/. HARRY E . PEACH, was referred to the Committee on Reports of Grand Officers: To The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas: BRETHREN:
Again we are privileged to assemble for the Annual Communication of our beloved Fraternity and I extend to all a most cordial welcome. The journey is long and the way sometimes rugged for one who has had the opportunity to stand as an entered apprentice in the North East corner of the Lodge and finally to preside in the Grand East. The lessons taught in the earlier years have been more deeply impressed upon our mind which we believe has been broadened by the contact of their daily use. The Ancient Landmarks of the Order, intrusted to our care have marked the way of progress and we are proud of the fact that they stand unchanged. • "Masonry" just a word, but known even to the world, at large, as a symbol .of strength, "A Wall," "A Foundation deep seated in the earth," or a building, beautiful and massive towering to the skies. For the Master Mason who has been brought to Light and instructed in the great principles of our Fraternity, it has a still more wonderful and a deeper meaning. It stands for a great Fraternity whose dimensions extend from the East to the West and from the North to the South; its height from the Earth to the Heavens, its depth from the circumference to its center and its covering no less than the clouded canopy, or starry decked heaven above, where we all hope at last to arrive by the aid of that theological ladder, which Jacob in his vision saw ascending from Earth to Heaven, the three principal rounds of which denote. Faith, Hope and Charity always bearing in mind the Tenets of our profession. Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth and the practice of the four Cardinal Virtues. ' That we may do this, it is necessary that every Brother take an active interest in his lodge, attend the Communications, refamiliarize himself with Masonic teachings, and carry them into our daily life that the world may know, not only what Masonry is, but the principles for which it stands.
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE OF KANSAS.
347
NECROLOGY.
Time has dealt kindly with our Grand Jurisdiction during the past year. There have been no vacancies created by death in our official family and also all of the Past Grand Officers have been permitted to remain with us. Ten hundred forty brethren, faithful members of the Craft, have been called to their last reward. Brother DANIEL P . BURDICK, Superintendent of our Kansas Masonic Home, received his summons while in Topeka just after the adjournment of a meeting of the Home Board, at which he had been present. A tribute to these departed brethren has been prepared by the Committee on Necrology. INSTALLATION.
Brother ROSCOE E . PETERSON, a member of Lamed Lodge No. 167, having been appointed Grand Junior Deacon and not being present at the time of the installation was installed March 21st, by Brother EDWIN E . JACOBS, Master of Larned Lodge, at my request. Brother JOSEPH C . HART, a member of Emerald Lodge No. 289, Lakin, was appointed Grand Senior Steward and not being present at the time of installation was installed by M.\W.\ CHARLES A. LouCKS, March 6, 1928, in his home lodge. E D I C T O P REVOCATION O F SHAWNEE LODGE NO. 54.
In pursuance of the order of the Grand Lodge that the charter of Shawnee Lodge No. 54 be revoked the following edict was issued April 12, 1928: To the Master, Wardens and Brethren of Shawnee Lodge No. 5^: WHEREAS, the Grand Lodge at its last Annual Communication held in the city of Topeka, on February 22 and 23, 1928, revoked the charter of Shawnee Lodge, this edict is issued in compliance with Section 4 of Article VII of the Constitution, which reads as follows: "Revocation of Warrant.—The Warrant of Constitution of any Lodge may be revoked for such causes and by such proceedings as may be prescribed by law. The declaration of forfeiture shall vest all the property of such Lodge in the Grand Lodge and all of its members. As soon as the forfeiture is declared, the Grand Secretary shall certify the fact to the Grand Master, who shall issue an edict of the revocation and order the Grand Pursuivant to take possession of the Warrant seal, jewels, furniture, records, funds and property of such Lodge and deliver the same to the Grand Secretary; and it shall be the duty of the officers of such Lodge to aid the Grand Pursuivant in the proper execution of the order of the Grand Master." As a matter of expediency and on account of the proper settling up of the affairs of the Lodge and checking the records, the duties devolving upon the Grand Pursuivant have been placed in the hands. of the Grand Secretary. I t is my order that all property, both real
348
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
and personal, be disposed of as may seem to be for the best interest of all concerned. FERRIS M . HILL,
ATTEST:
Grand Master.
ALBERT K . WILSON,
Grand Secretary. The property of the lodge has been disposed of and a full accounting will be given by the Grand Secretary in his report. PETITIONS FOR LETTERS OF DISPENSATION.
Denton. Members of Severance Lodge No. 313, residing in and near Denton have asked for the removal of Severance Lodge No. 313 to Denton, or the granting of Letters of Dispensation for the purpose of forming a new lodge at Denton. The brethren residing in and near Severance object to the removal of the Lodge but are willing that a new lodge be located at Denton. I have therefore requested the Grand Secretary to furnish the brethren of Denton the necessary papers and information that they may apply for Letters of Dispensation. Shawnee. I have had several requests for Letters of Dispensation to form a new lodge at this place, which I have promptly refused, believing that in view of the conditions surrounding the revocation of the charter of Shawnee Lodge No. 54, which was one of the most historic lodges in this Grand Jurisdiction, it would not be wise to create another lodge in this locality at this time. I therefore make no recommendation. APPOINTMENT OF GRAND ORATOR.
Brother WALLACE B . FLEMING, President of Baker University at Baldwin, Kansas, and a member of Palmyra Lodge No. 23, has been appointed to this very important position and I am sure you will agree that no mistake has been made in his selection. The annual oration will be delivered this afternoon. GRAND REPRESENTATIVES NEAR OTHER GRAND LODGES. Vacancies having occurred in the ranks of these brethren it has been my pleasure to appoint others to these important positions and also to recommend a number of the brethren for. appointment as representatives of other Grand Lodges near this Grand Lodge. A record of these appointments and recommendations appear in the Grand Secretary's report.
1928-29.
GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS.
349
CONSOLIDATION OF OTTAWA LODGE NO. 1 8 AND MELODY LODGE NO. 4 0 0 OP OTTAWA.
The brethren of Ottawa Lodge No. 18 and Melody Lodge No. 400 of Ottawa, having made known their desire to consolidate and to continue as one lodge, and having complied with the law, the following Edict was issued, November 8, 1928: EDICT. PROM T H E GRAND EAST.
To the Masters, Wardens and the Brethren of Ottawa Lodge No. 18 and Melody Lodge No. UOO, Ottawa, Kansas: WHEREAS, On the 19th day of October, 1928, Ottawa Lodge No. 18, Ottawa, Kansas, after due notice to all its resident members as required by law, voted to consolidate with Melody Lodge No. 400, Ottawa, Kansas; and WHEREAS, On the 1st day of October, 1928, Melody Lodge No. 400, Ottawa, Kansas, after due notice to all of its resident members as required by law, voted to consolidate with Ottawa Lodge No. 18, Ottawa, Kansas; Now, Therefore, I, FERRIS M. HILL, Grand Master of The M.-. W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas, by virtue of the power and authority in me vested, do hereby order and declare that Ottawa Lodge No. 18 and Melody Lodge No. 400, of Ottawa, Kansas, be and they are hereby consolidated from and after this date, under the Warrant, name and number of Ottawa Lodge No. 18, in accordance with the provision of Section 2, Article VII of the Constitution. It is further ordered that any petitions pending in Melody Lodge No. 400, and any uncompleted work of said Melody Lodge No. 400, belong to and shall be completed in Ottawa Lodge No. 18. It is further ordered that the Master of Melody Lodge No. 400, transmit to the Grand Secretary of The M.-.W.'. Grand Lodge of A. F . & A. M., of Kansas, the Warrant and Seal of said Melody Lodge No. 400. This Edict shall be read a t the first Stated Communication after its receipt and be by Ottawa Lodge No. 18 spread in full on the records of said lodge. Done at the City of Topeka, Kansas, this 8th day of November, 1928. F E R R I S M . HILL, ATTEST:
Grand Master.
ELMER F . STRAIN,
Grand Secretary. REMOVAL O F LODGES.
Huron Lodge No. 72. On September 17th a request from the brethren of Huron Lodge No. 72 was received by the Grand Secretary and referred to me asking permission to move the lodge to a building on the ground floor, until arrangements could be made for a suitable hall. The request was
350
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
granted provided only Stated Communications were held, no degrees conferred and that all necessary precautions be taken to preserve the secrecy of the Fraternity. Removal of Richmond Lodge No. ^26 to Princeton. A request was received from the brethren of Richmond Lodge No. 426 asking that they be permitted to hold the communications of their lodge in Princeton owing to the fact that they were unable to secure a suitable meeting place at Richmond. This request was referred to R.". W.-. EDGAK T . FOSTER, District Deputy Grand Master, who recommended the removal. The request was granted until such time as the Grand Master or Grand Lodge should rule otherwise, it being understood that the removal make no difference in the boundary line of the jurisdiction as the removal was only temporary. WHITE WATER LODGE U. D.
The Committee on Chartered Lodges and Lodges U. D. last year recommended that the Letters of Dispensation, issued May 16, 1927, be continued until December 31, 1928 with the three principal officers recommended in the petition for a Warrant and that they be required to receive instructions from one of the authorized lecturers before conferring any degrees. Accordingly the brethren of White Water were instructed by the Grand Secretary to communicate with Brother CHARLES A. WELLS, Lecturer, and arrange a mutual date for him to visit them and give the officers instruction in the Work and Lectures. A communication was received from the lodge by Brother WELLS asking when a date could be arranged, stating that it had been the custom of the lodge to have the members of the lodge, other than the officers, put on most of the initiatory work, and thus relieve the Master and Wardens of that duty, and if he would expect the recommended officers to be able to give the Work. That if this was the case it would be just as well for him to postpone his visit for a reasonable length of time in order that they might become posted in all sections sufficient to present the Work properly. This letter was referred to me and I immediately informed the brethren that unless arrangements were made with Brother WELLS for him to instruct the regular officers so that they could confer all three degrees and give the lectures, the Dispensation would not be continued and I would proceed at once to close up the affairs of the lodge and take charge of all property. The communication was presented to the lodge at a Stated Communication and they concluded that it would be impossible for the present officers to learn the work and presented the names of an entirely new set of officers, asking that these be substituted for those named in the Petition for Warrant.
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
351
In view of the recommendation of the Committee on Chartered Lodges and Lodges U. D. this request was refused and the lodge was notified that unless the recommendation was complied with on or before May 1, 1928, the Letters of Dispensation would not be continued. No direct reply was received to this communication and on May 10, 1928, I authorized the Grand Secretary to close the affairs of the lodge and ship the property to Topeka. This order was executed. The financial account will be made by the Grand Secretary in his report. RELIEF.
Appeals for relief were received during the month of September from the storm stricken jurisdictions of Florida and Puerto Rico, and following our usual custom that our contribution be dispensed through the Grand Masters of the affected jurisdictions, the following amounts were forwarded to them by wire: Grand Master, Florida, M.-. W.-. Le ROY BRANDON $ 1,000 00 Grand Master, Puerto Rico, M.-. W.-. JOSE GONZALEZ GiNORiO 300 00 Ottawa Lodge No. 18 appealed to the Grand Master to assist them in caring for those made destitute by the flood in their district, and $100.00 was contributed. SPECIAL D I S P E N S A T I O N S .
There have been 116 Special Dispensations issued, twelve of which were cancelled. $270.00 was collected as fees and remitted to the Grand Secretary. They are classified as follows: To elect and install officers on account of election erroneously held 9 To confer degrees waiving statutory time 36 To fill vacancies in office 30 Installation of officers absent at time of regular installation 18 Change of time for holding election 22 To deliver reprimand 1 Many requests were denied. CORNER-STONES.
Requests were made by: Patmos Lodge No. 97, El Dorado, September 17th, to lay the corner-stone of the First Christian Church. Tyrian Lodge No. 246, Garden City, November 27th, to lay the corner-stone of the Court House of Finney County.
352
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Great Bend Lodge No. 15, Great Bend, March 3rd, to lay the corner-stone of the new Masonic Lodge Hall. Kansas Lodge No. 307, Herington, September 18th, to lay the corner-stone of the First Methodist Church. Hoxie Lodge No. 248, Hoxie, June 27th, to lay the corner-stone of the First Christian Church. Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 179, Kinsley, October 19th, to lay the corner-stone of the Court House of Edwards County. The minutes of these Special Communications of the Grand Lodge will be found in the report of the Grand Secretary. I wish to thank M.'. W.-. Brother CHARLES N . FOWLER for presiding at the meeting held in Great Bend, and M.'. W.'. Brother ELRICK C. COLE, at Kinsley. DEDICATION.
The following lodge halls have been dedicated: Great Bend Lodge No. 15, Great Bend, September 19th. Kickapoo Lodge No. 4, Potter, May 22nd. Madison Lodge No. 196, Madison, December 12th. M.-. W.-. Brother CHARLES N. FOWLER having laid the cornerstone of the new hall at Great Bend was requested to be present and complete the work, which commission was executed and I am again indebted to him for this service. INVITATIONS.
Invitations have been received from the Grand Masters of: The Grand Lodge of Arkansas to attend the 87th Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Arkansas. The Grand Lodge of Missouri to attend the 108th Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Missouri. The Grand Lodge of Nebraska to attend the 71st Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Nebraska. The Grand Lodge of Michigan to attend the 44th Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Michigan. The Grand Lodge of Missouri to visit Ivanhoe Lodge No. 446, Kansas City, Missouri, April 12th, at the time they were entertaining "The Good Fellowship Club of the Railway Expressmen of Chicago." None of these most cordial invitations were accepted as they were received at a time when it was impossible for me to attend. Many invitations have been received from the lodges in our own Grand Jurisdiction and in every case, when it could be arranged, were accepted. However, I have taken the liberty to show preference to the smaller lodges as it was my belief that a visit from the Grand East would be an incentive for them to take an added interest in their work. Every courtesy was extended and my only regret is that I could not accept every invitation received.
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
353
FOREIGN RELATIONS.
Requests have been received through the Grand Secretary's office from the Grand Jurisdictions to confer degrees as an act of courtesy, and similar requests have been made by the lodges of Kansas . to other Grand Jurisdictions; all of which have been complied with; with courtesy and dispatch. It has been necessary to call the attention of several Secretaries to the Note on page 92, Grand Lodge Laws, relative to "Communications with Lodges in Other Grand Jurisdictions." I recommend that the Secretaries read that note. DISCIPLINE.
Fostoria Lodge No. 392. The Committee on Chartered Lodges and Lodges U. D., reviewing the report of the Grand Secretary last year, recommended the charter of, Fostoria Lodge No. 392 be suspended until such time as the Grand Master should make a thorough investigation of the situation and report at the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge as to the advisability of revoking the charter. The evening of May 3rd a meeting was arranged in the lodge hall at Fostoria. The Grand Master, Brother FRED H . WILSON, Assistant to the Grand Secretary, and fifteen brethren of the local lodge were present. The meeting was called to order by the Grand Master and explanations were in order. The investigation developed the-fact that the Secretary was at fault, that he resided considerable distance from the lodge, received his mail on a rural route, and was in no particular hurry to answer it, thus causing the delay in transmitting the Annual Report to the Grand Secretary. The brethren were informed that there seemed no reason why a lodge should not prosper in that community, provided a competent Secretary could be secured and who resided in Fostoria. Brother ARTHUR H . AVIS was selected and, the Grand Master declared the charter restored. A lodge of Master Masons was opened, the office of Secretary declared vacant, and a Special Dispensation issued authorizing an election to fill the vacancy. Brother FRED H . WILSON checked their standard forms and record books, and the new Secretary was installed. I have heard no further complaint of this lodge and I, therefore, recommend that Fostoria Lodge be continued. I desire to take this opportunity to state that practically all of the trouble of this nature originates in lodges that insist on electing brethren as Secretaries who reside too far from the lodge. It is very necessary that the Secretary be so located that he may be in close touch with the affairs and the members of the lodge at all times.
354
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Arrest of Charter of Landmark Lodge No. 218. On my return home after being installed as Grand Master one of my first duties was, to forward to the Master of Landmark Lodge No. 218 a check for the sum of $277.26 in full payment of the loss sustained by the failure of the Peoples State Bank of Mound Valley. This being made possible by the bond furnished by the Grand Lodge for the protection of the lodges from just such a misfortune. I asked that he execute a receipt and assignment which was enclosed, at the first Stated Communication of the lodge, and return to me at once that the matter might be closed. On March 23rd, not having received a reply I instructed the District Deputy Grand Master to go to Mound Valley, take up the charter and instruct the Master to communicate with me immediately. The charter was taken up March 25th and on March 27th the receipt and assignment were received, with the statement that they had just neglected to send them in, and on March 31st the District Deputy was instructed to return the charter. Just another case where the officers of a lodge failed to answer communications received from the Grand Officers. Removal of Treasurer of Kiowa Lodge No. 293. On April 27th I was informed that the Treasurer of Kiowa Lodge No. 293 of Greensburg, refused to honor regular lodge warrants or orders on the Treasurer. The Master of the lodge was instructed to order the Treasurer to honor these warrants, or orders, authorized by the Grand Lodge. This the Treasurer continued to refuse to do and on May 12,1928, an order was issued to the Master declaring the office of Treasurer vacant, the present officer being removed because of contumacy. A Special Dispensation was issued, authorizing an election at the next Stated Communication and the vacancy filled. Kingsdown Lodge No. UU7. Kingsdown Lodge No. 447, elected to membership
Brother
CLARENCE H . MCGREGOR, May 23, 1927, notwithstanding the fact
that his dimit was not granted by Emporia Lodge No. 12 until May 6th. The lodge therefore disregarded the required four weeks between the date of the reception of the petition and the ballot and in accordance with the usual custom was penalized $5.00 for the error. This penalty was paid to the Grand Master and has been remitted to the Grand Secretary. Illegal Reception of Petitions by Hiram Lodge No. 68. On August 27th I was informed by the Grand Secretary that Hiram Lodge No. 68, of Leavenworth, had received three petitions and
1928-29.
GRAND
LoD^u LF KANSAS.
355
conferred the degrees on three candidates, notwithstanding they had absolutely no jurisdiction. The information stated that each petition was accompanied by a waiver from Hancock Lodge No. 311 in whose jurisdiction they resided. I t developed, however, that all three had petitioned and been rejected in Hancock Lodge and therefore the waivers were illegal. I, therefore, ordered Hiram Lodge No. 68 to pay to the Endowment Fund of the Kansas Masonic Home the full amount of fees received from these three petitions, amounting to $150.00, the membership of these brethren to remain in Hiram Lodge No. 68 and the money to be paid through the Grand Secretary. I was later informed that one of these petitioners was a clergyman and that the fee in his case had been remitted. I ruled that as the reception of the petition was illegal, so was the remitting of the fee and the full amount, $150.00, must be paid. FIDELITY LODGE NO. 1 0 6 AND HAMILTON LODGE NO. 3 0 1 .
Infringement of Jurisdiction. On January 28, 1928, Hamilton Lodge No. 301 advised M.-. W.-. Brother CHARLES N . FOWLER, Grand Master, that Fidelity Lodge No. 106 had infringed on their rights, having accepted the petitions and conferred the degrees on four candidates who, at the time, resided in the jurisdiction of Hamilton Lodge, being located 3 miles nearer Hamilton than Eureka. This matter was referred to me and by me presented to the officers of Fidelity Lodge who agreed that three of the candidates did reside in the jurisdiction of Hamilton Lodge, but that the fourth had moved into the jurisdiction of Fidelity Lodge at least six months prior to the time he had petitioned. The officers of Hamilton Lodge conceded this and the following order was issued: That Fidelity Lodge No. 106 remit to Hamilton Lodge No. 301 all fees collected from the three petitioners and their membership to remain in Fidelity Lodge No. 106. COMMISSIONERS OF TRIALS, AND MASONIC TRIALS.
The following named brethren have been duly appointed as Commissioners of Trials: M. .w.- CHARLES N . FOWLER, Salina, Kansas.
w.w.W."
JAMES A. CASSLER, McPherson, Kansas. FRANK D . SPERRY, Ellsworth, Kansas. J. FORREST AYRES, Greenleaf, Kansas.
R. .w.- JAY B . KIRK, lola, Kansas. These brethren have served the Craft faithfully and well and are to be commended for the manner in which they have dispensed Masonic justice to all, and I wish to thank them for their cooperation in these unpleasant matters.
356
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
During the year, but one question has .been presented, which was not covered by the law. Two years ago the Trial Commission tried the case of Samaria Lodge No. 298, WILSON, VS. CHARLES F . TRENDLE.
The defend-
and was found guilty and the punishment fixed at reprimand. The usual mandate was mailed the lodge on October 20, 1927, but the Master was unable to administer the reprimand at the prescribed time following the receipt of the mandate, as the brother was away from home. Following this, several communications were sent the lodge asking if the reprimand had been administered, but owing to the continued absence of the brother the lodge was unable to carry out the verdict of the Commission. On February 16, 1928, the Secretary of the lodge asked how long a tirpe would be allowed them before the administering of the repriv mand, as the brother had not yet returned. This question was referred to the Grand Master and although the law provides that if no appeal is taken following the expiration of 30 days from the date of mailing the mandate no legal provision was made for such a contingency. Based wholly on the Grand Master's prerogatiys the only solution to the difficulty seemed to be to instruct the lodge co notify as many of the resident members as possible to be present at their next Stated Communication and explain to them that the brother had been found guilty and was sentenced to reprimand, b u t owing to his absence nothing further could be done until his return, at which time the matter could be taken up with the Grand Master who could then issue a Special Dispensation authorizing the lodge to call the brother before them and be reprimanded in accordance with the findings of the Trial Commission. The lodge was further instructed not t o issue a dimit should the brother request one, until such action had been taken. On May 2nd a request was received from the Secretary of the lodge requesting such dispensation, stating that the brother would be present to receive the reprimand. On June 20th this dispensation was returned stating that the order had not been executed because the brother failed to appear. On October 31st I received a letter from the brother himself stating that he was in Detroit, Michigan, and that it would be very difficult for him to return to his home lodge to receive the reprimand as he was employed there and could not leave, however showing a willingness to do anything in his power to bring the matter to a close. On November 13th the following order was issued to the Master of Samaria Lodge No. 298: That at the next Stated Communication of the lodge, the reprimand, which would have been previously prepared for this case, be read in open lodge and made a part of the minutes of that Communication and written in, in full, thus becoming a part of the records of the lodge, the original sent to the brother in Detroit and a copy to me. This order was obeyed and the matter closed.
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
357
LODGES FAILING TO REPORT ACTION ON AMENDMENTS TO THE CONSTITUTION.
March 13, 1928, a communication from the Grand Secretary was mailed to the Master and the Secretary of every lodge, concerning the proposed amendments of the Constitution, and in each case they were cautioned that under Section 7, Article VIII of the Constitution a report should be made concerning the action of the lodge within six months from the date of the communication. The communication was accompanied by printed copies of the proposed amendments, as well as a blank on which to make the report. The six months expired on September 13th, and twenty-seven lodges having failed to comply with the Constitution of the Grand Lodge, the Masters of such lodges were, on September 24th, summoned to appear before the Grand Lodge at Wichita, February 20-21, 1929, and show cause why the charters of their lodges should not be suspended. They to report to the Chairman of the Committee on Jurisprudence, W.-. WILLIAM L . HUGGINS.
The lodges which failed to report are; Havensville Lodge No. 34, Havensville. Nickerson Lodge No. 43, Nickerson. Troy Lodge No. 55, Troy. Frankfort Lodge No. 67, Frankfort. Solomon City Lodge No. 105, Solomon. Americus Lodge No. 109, Americus. Belle Plaine Lodge No. 173, Belle Plaine. Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 179, Kinsley. Henri Lodge No. 190, Tonganoxie. Lebanon Lodge No. 221, Scandia. Canopy Lodge No. 248, Grenola. Webb Lodge No. 275, Meade. Beulah Lodge No. 291, Bunker Hill. Gove City Lodge No. 302, Gove. Randall Lodge No. 304, Randall. Virginia Lodge No. 315, Savonburg. Coolidge Lodge No. 316, Coolidge. Norwich Lodge No. 319, Norwich. Vermillion Lodge No. 320, Vermillion. Frederick Lodge No. 337, Frederick. Alta Vista Lodge No. 357, Alta Vista. Grand View Lodge No. 376, Bucklin. Hepler Lodge No. 398, Hepler. Haviland Lodge No. 409, Haviland. Selden Lodge No. 423, Selden. Bendena Lodge No. 440, Bendena. Satanta Lodge No. 446, Satanta.
358
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
DISREGARD OF OFFICIAL COMMUNICATIONS.
It has been necessary that the Grand Master write several lodges ordering the Secretary to answer the communications of the Grand Secretary, relative to Sample Blanks and other matters. A communication of this nature was mailed the Master of Urbana Lodge No. 239 and no reply was received. As a final resort t h e District Deputy was ordered to take up the charter of the lodge and the desired result was attained. Due apology was made by the Master and explanations by the Secretary and several members of the lodge. The charter was restored, the Master reprimanded by the District Deputy and the matter closed. REQUESTS FOR SPONSORSHIP DENIED.
The usual number of requests have been made asking that lodges be permitted to sponsor outside organizations and entertainments, all of which have been denied. DONATION OF $9;000.00 TO THE MASONIC HOME. In accordance with the action of the Grand Lodge one year ago, the Grand Treasurer, at my request, turned over to the Kansas Masonic Home, five $1,000.00 Fourth Liberty bonds, and four $1,000.00 Board of Education, City of Larned bonds on April 17, 1928. APPOINTMENT AND INSTALLATION OF GRAND SECRETARY.
The notice of the retirement of R.'. W.'. Brother ALBERT K . WILSON necessitated t h e appointment of a successor, and on June 13th, a communication was addressed to M.\ W.'. ELMER F . STRAIN,
tendering the appointment to him, to take effect October 1, 1928, being the date Brother WILSON had informed me he desired to relinquish the office. Under date of June 14th, the appointment was accepted by Brother STRAIN.
On June 19th, a communication was directed to the members of the Council of Administration advising them of this action, and recommending that the salary of the Grand Secretary be at the rate of $3,000.00 per annum. The recommendation and action of the Grand Master were approved. LYMAN A. CORLIS, Master of Orient Lodge No. 51, Topeka, of which Brother STRAIN is a member, was asked to call a Special Communication of the lodge, Monday, October 1st, 8 P. M., for the purpose of installing Brother STRAIN. Brother STRAIN was installed by the Grand Master. Brother ALBERT K . WILSON, also a member of Orient Lodge No. 51, acted as Grand Marshal.
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
359
Many letters have been received by me from members in our own Grand Jurisdiction, and other Grand Jurisdictions with which we are in fraternal correspondence, expressing regret at the retirement of Brother WILSON, and wishing Brother STRAIN success as Grand Secretary. DISTRICT DEPUTIES.
I have had an unusually good corps of officers filling these offices in the Seventy-six Districts. Every lodge in the state has had an official visit and a report made to the Grand Master, and I have written each lodge, calling attention to any suggestion made by the District Deputy and particularly those lodges which the reports showed had on their rolls members more than two years in arrears for dues, referring them to By-Laws Nos. 124-125, Grand Lodge Law, adopted 1926. I thank these brethren for their cooperation. DISTRICT MEETINGS.
These meetings, held for the instruction of the officers and members of the lodges, were continued on the same plan adopted last year, and the officers of the lodges were not informed as to what part of the Work they would be called upon to exemplify. This plan has been an incentive for the officers to become posted in all the Work and not just one particular part. Under the able direction of our Lecturers, Brothers HARVEY O . DAVIS, STANFORD
M . SMART and CHARLES A. WELLS,
seventy-six
District Meetings were held. Twenty-flve lodges were visited by one of the Lecturers for the purpose of special instruction on account of the officers not being present at the District Meeting, these visits being ordered by the Grand Master. Lodges listed for special instruction on account of non-attendance of officers, are as follows: Havensville Lodge No. 34, Havensville. Xenia Lodge No. 47, Xenia. Gardner Lodge No. 65, Gardner. Sutton Lodge No. 85, Waterville. Devon Lodge No. 92, Devon. Godfrey Lodge No. 124, Farlington. Cherryvale Lodge No. 137, Cherryvale. Hamlin Lodge No. 185, Hamlin'. Newahcuba Lodge No. 189, Stockton. Greeley Lodge No. 211, Greeley. Dirigo Lodge No. 226, Haddam. Salem Lodge No. 228, Esbon. Soldier Lodge No. 240, Soldier. Linwood Lodge No. 241, Linwodd.
360
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
Milan Lodge No. 255, Milan. Medicine Valley Lodge 260, Lake City. Randall Lodge No. 304, Randall. Wallace Lodge No. 318, Wallace. Frederick Lodge No. 337, Frederick. Denison Lodge No. 372, Denison. Hepler Lodge No. 398, Hepler. Latham Lodge No. 401, Latham.' Hugoton Lodge No. 406, Hugoton. Codell Lodge No. 418, Codell. Elkhart Lodge No. 422, Elkhart. MASONIC HOME.
The Annual Meeting of the Masonic Home Board was held in the city of Wichita, Tuesday, January 15th, and reports of the officers in charge received. Owing to the death of Brother DANIEL P. BURDICK, Superintendent of the Home, who passed away October 3rd, the report of Superintendent and Matron were presented by Mrs. MAYME HAINES, Matron. Mrs. HAINES has had entire charge since the death of Brother BURDICK and is to be commended for the able manner in which she has performed this extra service, which she consented to do until a new Superintendent could be appointed. Three special meetings of the Board have been held during the year. At the meeting held in Topeka, January 25th, Brother RALPH D. COTTON, a member of Orient Lodge No. 51, of Topeka, was appointed Superintendent of the Home, and is now in charge. M.'. W . ' . Brother THOMAS G . FITCH, Secretary of the Home Board, will give his usual complete report of the financial condition of the Home. At the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge held in the city of Topeka, 1926, M.-. W.-. CHARLES A. LOUCKS delivered a special report on the subject of the Home. This report was ordered printed in the Proceedings. One year later M.'. W.\ JOHN W . NBILSON had a similar report, with full information, dating from the inception of the Home until that time, which was also printed in the Proceedings. I t has been rather a surprise to learn how few Masters availed themselves of the opportunity to have these splendid reports read to their respective lodges, and when last year, M.'. W.'. CHARLES N . FOWLER, in his address to the Grand Lodge, recommended that a special assessment of $1.00 for each member on the rolls of the lodges be made annually for five years, including the year 1928, these same brethren were the ones to ask, "Why is this necessary." Every effort is made to keep the members posted in regard to this, our "greatest work." This afternoon ah opportunity will be given everyone to visit the Home and I ask that you avail yourselves of it.
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
361
You will find practically every room taken which is the principal reason for the special assessment. Our membership in the lodge is growing, as is the membership of the Home. The call for assistance comes to us and we must respond. Therefore the response must be more funds and more room. The infirmary which has been completed and furnished is now in use. It was a great help during the Flu epidemic this winter. M.'. W.'. Brother CHARLES N . FOWLER further recommended that the special assessment be paid with the annual dues and fees to the Grand Lodge and turned over to the Masonic Home at such time and under such condition as the Grand Lodge might hereafter direct. There have been many suggestions made as to how this money can best be utilized for the enlargement of the Home and they are here presented for your consideration. 1. That the present Home be used for the older members and an entirely new Home be built for the children in some other part of the city of Wichita. 2. That the new Home for the children be built in some city or town other than Wichita, and be operated as an entirely separate institution. 3. That the present Home be enlarged to accommodate more members, both old and young. 4. That the tract of land west of the present building be used for the erection of another unit similar in architecture and design to the present building, one unit to be used for the older members, and the other for the children. It would seem after careful consideration that the fourth plan, or suggestion, made is best adapted to our needs and it has the approval of the members of your Masonic Home Board, and your Grand Master. These are some of the reasons given for the approval of this plan: We already own the land. One Superintendent could care for the entire Home. One heating plant would heat both units. Supplies could be purchased in larger quantities and to a better advantage. One infirmary would care for all the sick. The city schools of Wichita take excellent care of our children, giving them the best of instruction and no tuition is charged. These are a few advantages and there are many more. The time to act has arrived. I, therefore, recommend that the entire amount of the special assessment, as ordered last year, be paid over to the Masonic Home Board at the close of each year and that the Masonic Home Board be instructed to proceed to enlarge the Home, along these lines, and that construction be commenced as soon as in their judgment they deem advisable.
362
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
BONDING LODGE FUNDS.
There has been but little change in the matter of bonding lodge funds, as recommended by M.'. W.'. Brother CHARLES N . FOWLER, last year; however, it was found t h a t the correspondence relative to these matters could be cared for in the Grand Secretary's office to a much better advantage than by the Grand Master, and it was accordingly transferred to Topeka, July 1, 1928, and at the same time the year having expired, and it being time for the renewal of the bond it was recommended that the renewal be made with the same company, "The Fidelity and Deposit Company of Maryland," but through the Topeka agency in order that the work could be centralized. This change was made. The premium paid in 1927 was $1,650.00, this year (1928) $2,062.50, an increase of 25%, the cost of the bond having been increased 2 5 % by the Bonding Company. The wisdom of continuing this practice is a matter which should be given careful consideration at this Annual Communication and your Grand Master would therefore recommend that the subject be referred to the Committee on Jurisprudence in order that the Grand Lodge may express its wishes in the premises. RULING.
When the vote taken by a lodge on a proposed amendment to the Constitution is a tie the Master shall have one additional or casting vote. This ruling was made necessary on account of some lodges sending in a tie vote on the proposed amendments to the Constitution and agrees with Section 4, Article IV of the Constitution relative to voting in the Grand Lodge. QUESTIONS.
Can a lodge legally confer the second or third degree on a brother at a Special Communication called in the afternoon, just 28 days following the conferral of the preceding degree, which degree was conferred in the evening. No. The degree cannot be legally conferred at that time as the statutory time (28 days) would not expire until the hour indicated by the minutes of the communication at which the preceding degree was conferred. Can a Certificate of Transfer be received by a lodge after the expiration of the ninety days, provided it was in the hands of the Secretary of the lodge to which it was to be presented, before the ninety days had expired. No. The Certificate of Transfer, together with the petition, must be presented to the lodge before the expiration of the ninety days. The fact that the petition was in the hands of the Secretary
1928-29.
GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS.
363
had no bearing on the case, and therefore the action of the lodge in accepting the petition was illegal and the applicant must request his lodge to issue a new Certificate. CONFERRING THE DEGREES IN LESS THAN THE LAWFUL TIME.
The following lodges violated the Constitution of the Grand Lodge in conferring degrees in less than the lawful time: Altamont Lodge No. 69, Altamont. Signal Lodge No. 141, Osage City. Hope Lodge No. 151, Hope. Hays Lodge No. 195, Hays. Severance Lodge No. 313, Severance. Hugoton Lodge No. 406, Hugoton. Dispensations waiving the statutory time were issued, and the usual fee of $5.00 collected in each case. RETIREMENT OF R.'. W.'. BROTHER ALBERT K. WILSON.
The following never-to-be forgotten resolution was introduced by M.'. W.-. Brother ELRICK C . COLE at the last Communication of the Grand Lodge: Be it Resolved by this Grand Lodge, That our beloved Grand Secretary, ALBERT K . WILSON, at such time as he may elect to relinquish his office, be made Grand Secretary Emeritus, and that his salary and honorarium allowance be paid during the remainder of his life, and that the work of preparing a history of the Craft in this jurisdiction, as indicated above, be placed in his hands and any necessary expenses incurred be authorized from time to time by the Grand Master." This resolution was unanimously adopted. On May 29th, I received a communication from Brother WILSON with the statement that it was his desire that I arrange for the appointment of his successor, and that he be permitted to relinquish the office of Grand Secretary October 1, 1928. Brother WILSON continued in the active discharge of the duties of his office up until the last moment, and his last official act as Grand Secretary was to sign the two vouchers for the relief of the brethren in Florida and Puerto Rico. I know of no better tribute to pay him than to say, "His work was well and faithfully done." Every letter was answered and filed. Every file in that wonderful office, "built by him," was complete, and his desk was clear. Everything was done, and I am reminded of the time some one said to me, "All is finished." Brother WiLSON is now Grand Secretary Emeritus and may be found in the Grand Master's office in the Grand Lodge Building at Topeka, where he is at work preparing a history of the Craft in this Grand Jurisdiction.
364
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
His knowledge and experience are always at the service of the Craft, and I take this opportunity to personally thank him for his advice and counsel given me during my term of office, and many times before. May he be permitted to remain with us for many years. CONCLUSION.
The work of the year is almost finished and the record is before There is little more to add. I appreciate the honor and opportunity of having served as your leader for the year and shall return to the ranks of my lodge with an earnest endeavor to continue to be of some assistance at any time when called upon. The associations and the friendships formed will be cherished memories and continue, I hope, for many years. you.
"Friendship is a chain of gold, Shaped in GOD'S all-perfect mold; Each link a sraile, a laugh, a tear, A grip of the hand, a word of cheer. As steadfast as the ages roll. Binding closer soul to soul. No matter how far or heavy the load. Sweet is the journey on friendship's road." Fraternally submitted, FERRIS M . HILL,
Grand Master.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
365
REPORT OF COUNCIL OF ADMINISTRATION.
R.-. W.-. JOHN M . KINKEL, Secretary of the Council of Administration, submitted the following report, which was accepted and ordered printed in the Proceedings by the M.-.W.-. Grand Master: MASONIC GRAND LODGE BUILDING.
TOPEKA, KANSAS, February 23, 1928. A meeting of the Council of Administration was called to order by M.-. W.\ CHARLES N . FOWLER, the retiring President. Members present: M.-.W.'. FERRIS M . HILL, R . - . W . ' . GEORGE F . BEEZLEY, R.-.W.-. JAY B . K I R K , R . - . W . - . JOHN M . KINKEL.
The following officers were elected: M.-.W.'. FERRIS M . HILL, President; R.'.W.'. JOHN M . KINKEL, Secretary. The following motions were duly made, seconded and adopted: 1. Special appropriation of $150.00 to W.'. ROBERT P. McCoLLOCH for preparing special address which was delivered by him at the Communication of the Grand Lodge just closed. 2. That during the ensuing year Masonic charity be disbursed as usual through the Masonic Home Board. 3. That $1,650.00, or as much thereof as may be necessary, be appropriated in payment of premium on surety bond, as provided for in the proceedings of the M.'. W.'. Grand Lodge. 4. That there be appropriated an amount sufficient to cover all expenses incident to the dinner given the District Deputy Grand Masters during the recent Communication of the M.'. W.'. Grand Lodge. 5. That $164.50 be appropriated in payment of the interest maturing on indebtedness on the Shawnee Lodge temple. 6. That M.-. W.-. PERRY M . HOISINGTON be elected to succeed himself as a member of the Masonic Home Board for the term of four years, ending in 1932. 7. That the Grand Secretary, with the approval of the Grand Master, be authorized to invite Brother DALLAS GROVER, of Salina, Kansas, to prepare the special address to be delivered at the 1929 Communication of the M.'. W.'. Grand Lodge. 8. That the Grand Secretary, with the approval of the Grand Master, be authorized to have necessary painting done on the outside of the Grand Lodge Building, and the large office room in said building. 9. That the Grand Secretary be authorized to transfer lodges as follows:
366
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Kiekapoo No. 4, from District 12 to District 3. Alta Vista No. 357, from District 73 to District 61. Dwight No. 374, from District 73 to District 61. Adjournment subject to call of the President. JOHN M . KINKEL,
Secretary.
TOPEKA,
KANSAS,
October
1, 1928.
A meeting of the Council of Administration was held in the Masonic Grand Lodge Building in Topeka, on October 1st, at which all members were present. On motion, the action of the Grand Master in sending $300.00 to Puerto Rico, and $300.00 to Florida, to be used in the relief of brethren and their families who were afflicted on account of the hurricane which recently occurred in these places, was approved. On motion, duly seconded, the Grand Secretary was instructed to send an additional $700.00 to the Grand Secretary of Florida, to be dispensed for the same purpose, under the supervision of the Grand Master. On motion the Grand Master was authorized to execute whatever form of deed was necessary in turning over what is known as the Masonic Cemetery in Montana Township, Labette County, formerly owned by Evergreen Lodge No. 86, to Montana Township, in consideration of one dollar ($1.00), provided the Trustees of this Township agree to make all necessary repairs and keep the cemetery in good condition in the future. On motion the action of the Grand Master in appointing M.-.W.'. ELMER F . STRAIN as Grand Secretary to succeed R.'. W.'. ALBERT K .
WILSON, retired, and providing for payment of compensation at the rate of three thousand ($3,000.00) dollars per annum, was approved. Adjournment subject to call of the President. JOHN M . KINKEL,
Secretary.
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
367
GRAND TREASURER'S REPORT.
R.-.W.-.WILLIAM FRANK MARCH, Grand Treasurer, submitted the following report, which, on his motion, was referred to the Committee on Reports of Grand Officers: To The M:. W.: Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: . The following report of the receipts and disbursements of Grand Lodge funds is fraternally submitted: LAWRENCE, KANSAS, February 1, 1929.
WILLIAM FRANK MARCH, Grand Treasurer, In aceounl with T H E M.-. W.-. GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS. GENERAL FUND.
Receipts. 1928 Feb. 1.—Balance on hand $ 31,684 89 Received from Grand Secretary as per receipts Nos. 1 to 91 186,626 80
$218,31169
Disbursements. 1928-1929.—Warrants paid Nos. 1 t o 439 except Nos. 278, 287, -297, 387 and 411 $ 92,550 12 Transferred to Charity Fund.. 4,414 84 Balance on hand 121,346 73 $218,31169 CHARITY FUND.
Receipts. 1928 Feb. 1.—Balance on hand $ Transferred from General Fund...
8,460 30 4,414 84 $ 12,875 14
Disbursements. 1928-1929.—Warrants Nos. 278, 287, 297, 387 and 411 $ Balance on hand
6,298 75 6,576 39 $ 12,875 14
368
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
BOND ACCOUNT.
1928. Feb. 1.—Total amount bonds on hand
$12,500 00
Transferred to Masonic Home Endowment Fund: Board of Education, City of Lamed: No. 33, dated Jan. 1,1914, due July 1, 1933..$1,000 N o . 3 4 , d a t e d J a n . 1,1914, due July 1,1933.. 1,000 N o . 3 5 , d a t e d J a n . 1,1914, due July 1,1933.. 1,000 No. 36, dated Jan. 1,1914, due July 1,1933.. 1,000
00 00 00 00
U. S. Fourth Liberty Loan Bonds: No. E01953305 No. F01953306 No. G01953307 No. K01632330 No. A01632331
00 00 00 00 00
$1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000
1929. Feb. 1.—Total amount bonds on hand
$9,000 00 $3,500 00
I have in my hands the following bonds purchased by the Council of Adniinistration: School District No. 50, .No. . .7,. dated. Jan. No. 6, dated Jan. No. 5, dated Jan. No. 4, dated Jan. No. 3, dated Jan. No. 2, dated Jan. No. 1, dated Jan.
Brown County, bearing 6% interest: 1, 1921, due 1, 00 , Jan. ^ 1933....$500 gPQ PQ 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1934 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1935.. 500 00 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1936.. 500 00 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1937.. 500 00 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1938.. 500 00 1, 1921, due Jan. 1, 1939.. 500 00
Total
$3,500 00 $3,500 00
Fraternally submitted, WILLIAM FRANK
MARCH,
Grand Treasurer.
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE OF KANSAS.
369
FINAL REPORT OF GRAND SECRETARY ALBERT K. WILSON.
R.-. W.-. ALBERT K . WILSON submitted his final report, which, on motion of W/. HUBERT H. HUBBARD, was referred to the Committee on Reports of Grand Officers, and the verses which were read by him were ordered included with the report in the Proceedings: To The M.: W.: Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: Your Grand Secretary herewith submits the following as his thirtyfifth and final report, including receipts and disbursements from the close of his last annual report up to the date of his retirement from this office October 1, 1928: PROCEEDINGS 1928.
The Annual Proceedings for 1928 were printed and distributed within the usual time after the close of our last Annual Communication. HISTORICAL REGISTRY AND ABSTRACT.
The historical registry and abstract books were posted up to date during the year from the 1927 reports. LODGE UNDER DISPENSATION.
White Water Lodge, at White Water, Butler County.—At the last Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge a petition for a charter presented by the brethren of White Water, to whom Letters of Dispensation were issued on May 16,1927, was denied, and through the report of the Committee on Chartered Lodges and Lodges U. D. the Letters of Dispensation were continued on condition that the three principal officers recommended in the petition for a Warrant received instructions from one of the authorized Lecturers before conferring any of the degrees. This requirement was made on account of a change in the three principal officers in the petition from those appointed by the Grand Master under Letters of Dispensation. The brethren of White Water declined to comply with the requirements and the Letters of Dispensation therefore were not renewed and all dimits and Grand Secretary's Certificates were returned t o the brethren who had signed the petition for Letters of Dispensation. The paraphernalia was sent the Grand Secretary and the other personal property was sold to the parties having in charge t h e building in which the Lodge formerly met. In this way the affairs of the Lodge were concluded.
370
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
LATE SHAWNEE LODGE NO. 5 4 .
The charter of this lodge was revoked at the last Annual Communication and as soon as practicable the records were carefully checked by your Grand Secretary and all members owing.dues were notified of the amount and upon receipt of the same the usual Grand Secretary's Certificate was issued. In notifying the members of the amount of their dues they were inforrned that under the law of the Grand Lodge the amount owing should be paid befo're the next Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge, and all members failing to meet this obligation would be suspended. This lodge owned their building, on which there was a mortgage of $4,700.00. The disposal of this real estate was handled by the M.-.W.'.Grand Master. In addition to the records, the paraphernalia was shipped to the Grand Secretary and placed in the Grand Lodge Building. DONATION TO THE MASONIC HOME.
At the last Annual Communication, through the recommendation of M.-.W.-. Brother
CHARLES N . FOWLER, Grand Master, the sum of
$9,000.00 was donated to the Masonic Home, t o be used in remodeling and equipping an isolation cottage. In accordance with the above legislation there was turned over to t h e Masonic Home four $1,000.00 bonds, issued by the Board of Education, City of Larned, bearing five per cent interest, and five $1,000.00 U. S. Fourth Liberty Loan Bonds, bearing 4}^ per cent interest. RESTORATION OF CHARTERS.
During the year the original charters or copies of charters (where lost.or destroyed) of the following lodges have been properly restored wherever necessary and certified photographic copies made, framed and sent t o each lod-ge, and the original or the copy placed on file in the archives of the Grand Lodge: Wyandotte Lodge N o . 3, Kansas City (copy of original); Rising Sun Lodge.No. 8, Fort Scott (copy of original); Longton Lodge No. 26, Longton (copy of original); McKinley Lodge No. 41, Pomona; Mackey Lodge No. 48, EfBngham (copy of original); Spring Hill Lodge No. 56, Spring Hill; Jeflferson Lod^e No: 84, Winchester (copy of original); Mankato Lodge No. 87 (copy of original); Devon Lodge No.92,Devon; Prudence Lodge No. 100, Columbus (copy of original); Fidelity Lodge No. 106, Eureka; Memphis Lodge No. 108, Garland; Americus Lodge No. 109, Americus; Polar Star Lodge No. 130, Netawka; Atwood Lodge No. 164, Atwood; Blue Rapids Lodge No. 169, Blue Rapids; Sterling Lodge No. 171, Sterling (copy of original); Gaylord Lodge No. 183, Gaylord; Hamlin Lodge No. 185, Hamlin; Eminence Lodge
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
371
No. 205, Eskridge; Occidental Lodge No. 207, Alden; Brookville Lodge No. 209, Brookville (copy of original); Hiattville Lodge No. 216, Hiattville (copy of original); Landmark Lodge No. 218, Mound Valley; Dirigo Lodge No. 226, Haddam (copy of original); Salem Lodge No. 228, Esbon; Garfield Lodge No. 235, Leonardville; Stafford Lodge No. 252, Stafford (copy of original); Lyra Lodge No. 256, McLouth; Medicine Valley Lodge No. 260, Lake City; Comanche Lodge No. 295, Coldwater; Coolidge Lodge No. 316, Coolidge (copy of original); Rosedale Lodge No. 333, Kansas City (copy of original); Oak Hill Lodge No. 334, Oak Hill (copy of original); Kincaid Lodge No. 338, Kincaid (copy of original); Hoxie Lodge No. 348, Hoxie (copy of original); Dwight Lodge No. 374, Dwight (copy of original); Sylvia Lodge No. 391, Sylvia (copy of original); Coats Lodge No. 394, Coats; Hepler Lodge No. 398, Hepler; Ensign Lodge No. 413, Ensign; Elkhart Lodge No. 422, Elkhart; Richmond Lodge No. 426, Richmond. CHARTERS NOT YET SENT IN.
The following lodges as yet have not taken advantage of the opportunity of having thefr chapters or copies thereof restored wherever necessary and placed on file in the archives of the Grand Lodge: Nemaha Lodge No. 13, Corning; Circleville Lodge No. 20, Circleville; Eldora Lodge No. 28, Mapleton (copy of original); Halstead Lodge No. 46, Halstead; Coyville Lodge No. 57, Coyville; Gardner Lodge No. 65, Gardner (copy of original); Huron Lodge No. 72, Huron (copy of original); Chetopa Lodge No. 73, Chetopa (copy of original); Tuscan Lodge No. 82, Neosho Falls (copy of original); Harmony Lodge No. 94, Neodesha; Delaware Lodge No. 96, White Church; Solomon City Lodge No. 105, Solomon (copy of original); Excelsior Lodge No. 115, Uniontown (copy of original); Altoona Lodge No. 118, Altoona (copy of original); Cherokee Lodge No. 119, Cherokee (copy of original); Woodson Lodge No. 121, Toronto (copy of original); Godfrey Lodge No. 124, Farlington (copy of original); Cawker City Lodge No. 125, Cawker City; Munden Lodge No. 128, Munden; Equity Lodge No. 131, Fontana (copy of original); Lenexa Lodge No. 135, Lenexa (copy of original); Sedgwick Lodge No. 139, Sedgwick; Lincoln Lodge No. 154, Lincoln (copy of original); Hope Lodge No. 155, Howard (copy of original); Alma Lodge No. 161, Alma (copy of original); Fraternal Lodge No. 170, Linn; Russell Lodge No. 177, Russell; Bennington Lodge No. 180, Bennington (copy of original); Lenora Lodge No. 181, Lenora (copy of original); Phillipsburg Lodge No. 184, Phillipsburg (copy of original); Hartford Lodge No. 193, Hartford (copy of original); Norton Lodge No. 199, Norton (copy of original); Mulvane Lodge No. 201, Mulvane; Sincerity Lodge No. 214, Simpson (copy of original); Mount Hope Lodge No. 238, Mount Hope; Waverly Lodge No. 244, Waverly; Chase Lodge No. 247, Chase (copy of original); Scottsville Lodge No. 249, Scottsville
372
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
(copy of original); Medicine Valley Lodge No. 260, Lake City; Charity Lodge No. 263, Hazelton (copy of original); Logan Lodge No. 264, Logan; Moline Lodge No. 267, Moline; Bourbon Lodge No. 268, Bronson (copy of original); Quenemo Lodge No. 270, Quenemo (copy of original); Webb Lodge No. 275, Meade (copy of original); Ashland Lodge No. 277, Ashland; Cosmos Lodge No. 278, Kiowa (copy of original); Millbrook Lodge No. 281, Hill City (copy of original); Comanche Lodge No. 295, Coldwater (copy of original); Randall Lodge No. 304, Randall; Hebron Lodge No. 314, Gridley; Virginia Lodge No. 315, Savonburg; Goodland Lodge No. 321, Goodland (copy of original); Oneida Lodge No. 323, Oneida; Hoyt Lodge No. 327, Hoyt (copy of original); Hoisington Lodge No. 331, Hoisington (copy of original); Lane Lodge No. 339, Lane (copy of original); Parker Lodge No. 341, Parker; Narka Lodge No. 349, Narka (copy of original); Boling Lodge No. 365, Boling (copy of original); Denison Lodge No. 372, Denison; Piper Lodge No. 385, Piper (copy of original); Freeport Lodge No. 389, Freeport (copy of original); Mayetta Lodge No. 393, Mayetta (copy of original); Benedict Lodge No. 403, Benedict; Harveyville Lodge No. 421, Harveyville; Cunningham Lodge No. 427, Cunningham; Pretty Prairie Lodge No. 428, Pretty Prairie; Enterprise Lodge No. 437, Enterprise. COPY OF CHARTER OF NEOSHO LODGE NO. 27, LE ROY.
In accordance with the action of the Grand Lodge one j'ear ago, as shown on pages 88 and 175 of our 1928 Proceedings, a certified copy of the original charter issued to this lodge was engrossed and a photographic copy furnished under date of May 2, 1928. CHARTER OF AMERIGUS LODGE NO. 109.
In compliance with the recommendation of the Grand Lodge through the report of the Committee on Chartered Lodges and Lodges U. D., the necessary certificate concerning the change of the name of this lodge from Obedience Lodge No. 109 to Americus Lodge No. 109, as of October 21, 1875, was added to the original charter, and a certified photographic copy furnished the lodge. The other charter, issued in 1875, was cancelled and filed in the Grand Lodge museum. This subject was fully covered in our 1928 Proceedings, pages 87 and 175. MASONIC DISTRICTS.
Owing to the revocation of the charter of Shawnee Lodge No. 54 of Shawnee, it was eliminated from the list of lodges in District No. 76. As a matter of expediency the Council of Administration made the following changes in the districts during the year:
192S-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
373
Kickapoo Lodge No. 4 of Potter from District No. 12 to District No. 3. Alta Vista Lodge No. 357 from District No. 73 to District No. 61. Dwight Lodge No. 374 from District No. 73 to District No. 61. CHANGES IN DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTERS.
Owing to the inability of the brethren appointed earlier in the year to continue in the performance of the duties devolving upon them as District Deputy Grand Master, it was necessary to make the following appointments: District No. 17 District No. 25
WILLIAM R. GRAHAM FRANK A. BLAKSLEB
Sedan Manhattan
GRAND REPRESENTATIVES NEAR OTHER GRAND LODGES. During the year the following appointment of Grand Representative of our Grand Lodge was made: Texas
JEWEL P. LIGHTFOOT
Fort Worth
GRAND REPRESENTATIVES NEAR OUK GRAND LODGE.
Upon the recommendation of our M.'. W.". Grand Master the following appointments of Grand Representatives were made during the year: Canada Michigan
...GEORGE O . FOSTER J. FORREST AYRES
Lawrence Greenleaf
Nevada
WILLIAM B . PENNY
Cottonwood Falls
Ohio Quebec
PHILIP EUGENE STOTLER CHARLES E . KESLER
Bethel Williamsburg
INDEXING PROCEEDINGS. .
During the year our 1928 Proceedings were indexed which brings this work up to date. MUSEUM • CASES.
In order to properly file and display the various relics secured during the year it was found necessary to purchase an additional museum case for the Grand Lodge Library and Museum. HISTORICAL FILING CASES.
Owing to the increase in our membership each year the space in our historical registry cases was exhausted and in order to provide ample room for our needs for several years to come a new three section case was ordered.
374
PMOCEEDINCS
OF THE
February.
HISTORY OF LODGES.
During the year several lodges have completed and placed on file historical sketches of their lodges, as well as pictures of both the exterior and interior of their present halls, all of which will prove of inestimable value to the one compiling a history of the fraternity in this Grand Jurisdiction. There are, however, many lodges which have disregarded all appeals of the Grand Secretary, and in order to complete this work it will be necessary for the Grand Lodge to take whatever steps are necessary to secure needed information from them. As your Grand Secretary has been assigned the duty of preparing a history of t h e Craft in this state future references to this subject will appear in his Special Reports annually to Grand Lodge. TRANSCRIPT OF TRIAL.
An appeal having been taken by Brother R. CLAUDE YOUNG, a member of Crescent Lodge No. 133 of Arkansas City, from the decision of the Commissioners of Trials, in the case of Crescent Lodge No. 133 against ALBERT FAULCONER, the transcript and all papers relating thereto, were forwarded to the Chairman of the Committee on Jurisprudence on August 4, 1928. P O R T R A I T S O F R.-. W . ' . B R O T H E R S DANIEL VANDERSLICE AND JOHN W. SMITH, W.". BROTHER THOMAS J . VANDERSLICE AND BROTHER WILLIAM WALKER.
In the work assigned to your Grand Secretary on his retirement from office—that of preparing a history of the Craft in this jurisdiction—no member has taken a greater interest, or rendered more valuable assistance than Brother HOWARD VANDERSLICE, member of Smithton Lodge No. 1 of Highland, son of W.'. Brother THOMAS J. VANDERSLICE, who served that lodge as Master for a number of years and was one of the most active members in our Grand Lodge during his life. W.'. Brother THOMAS J. VANDERSLICE was the oldest son of our
first Grand Junior Warden, R.-. W.\ Brother DANIEL VANDERSLICE, and it is to this grandson of R.'. W.'. Brother VANDERSLICE that the Grand Lodge is indebted for portraits of his grandfather, R.\ W.'. Brother D A N I E L VANDERSLICE; his father, W.\ THOMAS J. VANDER-
SLICE; R.-. W.". JOHN SMITH, Grand Junior Warden in 1858, and
Brother WILLIAM WALKER, who was a charter member of Wyandotte Lodge No. 3 and the Provisional Governor of Nebraska, which included that portion of the country afterwards set aside as Kansas. These pictures were presented to the Grand Lodge during the past year and are now displayed on the walls in the Grand Lodge Library and Museum.
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
375
CONFERRING DEGREES IN LESS THAN THE LAWFUL TIME.
The following lodges conferred degrees in less than the lawful time and after the dates reported had been verified by the Secretary of the lodges interested, the matter was referred to the M/. W/. Grand Master for such action as he might deem best: Altamont Lodge No. 69, Altamont. Signal Lodge No. 141, Osage City. Hope Lodge No. 155, Howard. Hays Lodge No. 195, Hays. Severance Lodge No. 313, Severance. Hugoton Lodge No. 406, Hugoton. Kingsdown Lodge No. 447, Kingsdown. LIST OF REGULAR LODGES.
In accordance with the recommendation of your Grand Secretary one year ago, copies of the List of Regular Lodges were sent out on May 18, 1928. These books should be kept on file in the archives of the lodge in order that they may be referred to at any time and in all cases where a brother presents himself for examination as a visitor. REPORT OF ILLEGAL SUSPENSIONS.
In posting up the historical registry covering the 1927 reports, it was found that a number of lodges reported the suspension of members for non-payment of dues on dates which raised the question of the legality of the suspension; in other words, the date of suspension of these brethren was at a date subsequent to the first Stated Communication after the expiration of ninety days from the Annual Communication. Based on the ruling of the Grand Master one year ago all lodges which failed to comply strictly with the law concerning the suspension of members were instructed to restore all such members to the roll of membership and in submitting their 1928 annual report to include back dues on them for the year 1927. The following is the list of lodges: Washington Lodge No. 5 Atchison. Rising Sun Lodge No. 8 Fort Scott. Lafayette Lodge No. 16 Manhattan. Arcana Lodge No. 31 Doniphan. Nine Mile Lodge No. 49 Lansing. Orient Lodge No. 51 Topeka. Altamont Lodge No. 69 Altamont. Tuscan Lodge No. 82 ,....Neosho Falls. Home Lodge No. 89 Centralia. Halcyon Lodge No. 120 Peabody. Belle Plaine Lodge No. 173 Belle Plaine. Russell Lodge No. 177 Russell. Hays Lodge No. 195 Hays. Greeley Lodge No. 211 Greeley.
376
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
Hiattville Lodge No. 216 Lewis Lodge No. 220 Scottsville Lodge No. 249 Stafford Lodge No. 252 Attica Lodge No. 262 Logan Lodge No. 264 Norwich Lodge No. 319 Parker Lodge No. 341 Zenda Lodge No. 378 Buffalo Lodge No. 379 White City Lodge No. 380 Wakarusa Lodge No. 402
February,
Hiattville. Lewis. Scottsville. Stafford. Attica. Logan. Norwich. Parker. Zenda. Buffalo. White City. Wakarusa.
BONDING LODGE TREASURERS, SECRETARIES AND DEPOSITORIES.
In compliance with the instructions of the Grand Lodge, through the report of the Special Committee to whom was referred the subject of bonding Lodge Treasurers, Secretaries and depositories, a new bond was executed and has been placed on file in the archives of the Grand Lodge. AMENDMENTS TO
CONSTITUTION..
At the last Annual Communication the Special Committee on Revision of Laws submitted a report, suggesting eight proposed amendments to the Constitution, all of which received the required twothirds vote, a full report of which will be found on pages 154 to 160 inclusive of our 1928 Proceedings. In accordance with Section 7 of Article VIII your Grand Secretary sent a copy of the amendments to both the Master and Secretary of each Lodge on March 13, 1928, accompanied by the following communication and form for report: To The Master, Wardens and Brethren of all Lodges in this Jurisdiction. BRETHREN:
At the last Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge held in the city of Topeka, on February 22-23, 1928, through the report of a Special Committee, several amendments to the Constitution were submitted, all of which were sustained by more than the required twothirds vote of all members present and voting. Under Section 7 of Article VIII the proposed amendments shall be engrossed and copies sent the Master and Secretary of each Lodge for action thereon by their Lodge, and each Lodge shall, within six months thereafter, (that is, from the date of this communication) certify its proceedings to the Grand Secretary. In compliance with this section of the Constitution a full report of the Committee, containing the proposed amendments, is enclosed herewith. You will therefore cause this report to be read in open Lodge at a Stated Communication and certify the proceedings to the Grand Secretary in accordance with the provisions of Section 7 of Article VIII. The heavy black face type in each Section, except the subjects, indicates the proposed amendment. Section 7.of Article I, however, simply provides for an elimination and therefore contains no black face type. Due report of the action of your Lodge on each Section shall be made on the certificate enclosed herewith.
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
377
Attention is called to the following Standing Regulation adopted by the Grand Lodge in 1879: Penalty for Neglect or Refusal to Act.—The neglect or refusal of any Lodge to act on any amendment to the Constitution shall be deemed a Masonic offense, which shall subject the Lodge so offending to the penalty of suspension. Fraternally yours, ALBERT K . WILSON,
Grand Secretary. Lodge No
•
R/. W.-. ALBERT K . WILSON, Grand Secretary,
Topeka, Kansas. M Y DEAR BROTHER:
I hereby certify the following is a correct report on the several proposed amendments to the Constitution: No. members voting "YES." Section .Section Section Section Section Section Section Section
4 of 7 of 6 of 5 of 3 of 6 of 3 of 5 of
Article Article Article Article Article Article Article Article
I I III IV V V VI VI
No. members voting "NO."
.
Given under my hand and the seal of the Lodge this., day of , 1928. Secretary. At the expiration of the six months—September 13, 1928—the following lodges had failed to make a report and the list was submitted to the Grand Master for action in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution: Havensville Lodge No. 34, Havensville. Nickerson Lodge No. 43, Nickerson. Troy Lodge No. 55, Troy. Frankfort Lodge No. 67, Frankfort. Solomon City Lodge No. 105, Solomon. Americus Lodge No. 109, Americus. Belle Plaine Lodge No. 173, Belle Plaine. Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 179, Kinsley. Henri Lodge No. 190, Tonganoxie. Lebanon Lodge No. 221, Scandia.
378
PROCEEDINGS
OF
THE
February,
Canopy Lodge No. 248, Grenola. Webb Lodge No. 275, Meade. Beulah Lodge No. 291, Bunker Hill. Gove City Lodge No. 302, Gove. Randall Lodge No. 304, Randall. Virginia Lodge No. 315, Savonburg. Coolidge Lodge No. 316, Coolidge. Norwich Lodge No. 319, Norwich. Vermillion Lodge No. 320, Vermillion. Frederick Lodge No. 337, Frederick. Alta Vista Lodge No. 357, Alta Vista. Grand View Lodge No. 376, Bucklin. Hepler Lodge No. 398, Hepler. Haviland Lodge No. 409, Haviland. Selden Lodge No. 423, Selden. Bendena Lodge No. 440, Bendena. Satanta Lodge No. 446, Satanta. A careful tabulation of the several proposed amendments was made from the reports as they were received and at the expiration of the lawful time for the lodges to take action it was found that of the 447 lodges in our Grand Jurisdiction 420 lodges reported, and as indicated above 27 lodges failed to comply with the law. Of the 420 lodges reporting the result shows the following: Section 4, Article I : 319 for the amendment; 101 against. Section 7, Article I : 409 for the amendment; 11 against. Section 6, Article III: 384 for the amendment; 36 against. Section 5, Article IV: 397 for the amendment; 23 against. Section 3, Article V: 405 for the amendment; 15 against. Section 6, Article V: 419 for the amendment; 1 against. Section 3, Article VI: 410 for the amendment; 10 against. Section 5, Article VI: 415 for the amendment; 5 against. It will be observed from the above that more than two-thirds of all our 447 lodges have agreed to all the proposed amendments. SPECIAL ASSESSMENT FOR THE MASONIC HOME.
In accordance with the action of the Grand Lodge one year ago the following communication was mailed to all lodges on April 16,1928: To The Master, Wardens and Brethren of all Lodges in this Jurisdiction: BRETHREN:
Your attention is called to the action of the Grand Lodge at its last Annual Communication held in the city of Topeka, February 22-23, 1928, approving the recommendation of the Grand Master providing for a special assessment of $1.00 for each member borne on the rolls of the Lodges, as shown in the annual reports for the years 1928, 1929, 1930, 1931 and 1932, for the purpose of establishing and erecting necessary buildings to provide accommodations for the increased demands on our Masonic Home.
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
£79
This assessment shall be paid with the annual dues and fees to the Grand Secretary, and it is optional with the Lodges whether it is paid out of the General Fund or by a special assessment made upon the members. Where Lodges elect to make an assessment upon their members it is not necessary to amend the By-Laws or adopt a resolution as this assessment is made upon the membership by the Grand Lodge, and any member refusing to pay the same is subject to suspension. This assessment contemplates the payment of $1.00 for each member shown on the rolls of the Lodges in their annual reports. This subject will be found under the head of "Our Masonic Home," on pages 57, 58, 59, 194 and 195, Proceedings 1928. Fraternally yours, ALBERT K . WILSON,
Grand Secretary. GRAND S E C R E T A R Y ' S CERTIFICATES.
During the year the following Grand Secretary's Certificates were issued: No. 892. ARTHUR H . PENNER, Brainerd Lodge No. 280, White Water, No. 893. RAY E . WISEMAN, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. No. 894. MAURICE W . BARTLESON, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. No. 895. THOMAS H . CARTER, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. No. 896. CHARLES W . COOLEY, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. No. 897. JAMES B . FAIRHURST, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. No. 898. CARL C . FOSTER, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. No. 899. JOHN H . MEYERS, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. No. 900. FRED W . MITCHELL, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. No. 901. FRED A. MITCHELL, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. No. 902. X. OURAY MEYER, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. No. 903.. CRIST NIEMAN, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. No. 904. GEORGE PIKE, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. No. 905. EARNEST C . SCOTT, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. No. 906. JOSEPH EARNSHAW, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. No. 907. RALPH E . DENHAM, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. No. 908. FRANK F . BUCHANAN, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. No. 909. WILLIAM O . JUSTICE, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. No. 910. LAWRENCE R . PROVOST, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. No. 911. THAD C . BURCH, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. No. 912. RICHARD O . LARSEN, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. No. 913. EDWIN G . BARTHBERGER, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. No. 914. ANDREW M . SMITH, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. No. 915. .A. CRESPO ANDREWS, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. No. 916. WILLIAM F . BUCHANAN, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. No. 917. THEODORE E . COBB, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. No. 918. ELMER E . HITE, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. No. 919. EARLE E . HUGHES, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. No. 921. JAMES K . HUGHES, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. No. 922. CHARLES M . MATTESON, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee.
380
No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No.
PROCEEDINGS
923. 924. 925. 926. 927. 928. 929. 930. 931. 932. 933. 934. 935. 936. 937. 938. 939. 940. 941. 942. 943. 944. 945. 946. 947. 948. 949. 950. 951. 952. 953. 954. 955. 956. 957. 958. 959. 960. 961.
OF THE
February,
REGINALD MILLER, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. MARVIN R. SMITH, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. GiFFORD V. TERRY, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. CHARLES A. TIPTON, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. JOHN H . TRACER, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. J O H N A. KECK, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. WILLIAM H . HEATON, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. GEORGE M . KOEHLER, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. DAVID R . ABBOTT, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. CLAKENCE M . DAVIDSON, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. ROSS A. LEON, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. WALTER 0. QUIRING, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. LOUIS J. YOTZ, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. ROSS B . SMITH, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. LESTER F . BLANTON, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. CHARLES C. B U I E , Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. ADDISON D . FLINN, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. ALBERT T . EDIE, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. GEORGE W . GODDARD, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. WILLIAM FRAZIER, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. DAVID CASE, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. HENRY A. MOHR, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. F R E D A. VORE, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. RAYMOND GODDARD; Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. JAMES A. MUNNS, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. JACOB E . SCHEER, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. RICHARD P. HARDBSTY, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. DAVID H . WHITE, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. JAMES A. TOWNSEND, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. HOWARD K . BEAZBLL, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. JOSEPH M C K E B , Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. THOMAS W . DAVIS, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. GEORGE KENT, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. CECIL R . FARIS, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. FRED A. HILL, White Water Lodge U. D., White Water. ISAAC C . LIGHTFOOT, . Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. FRANK 0. SCHNAITMAN, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. OSCAR DAVIDSON, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. JESSE L . HALL, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. OFFICIAL CIRCULARS.
During the year the following communications have been issued: No. 328. To Grand Secretaries concerning communications between Grand Jurisdictions. No. 329. Identification certificate and instructions to ticket agents in connection with application for reduced rates. No. 330. Form for reporting on amendments to Constitution.
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
381
No. 331. No. 332. No. 333. No. No. No. No. No. No.
Information concerning amendments to Constitution. Proposed amendments to the Constitution. Communication concerning special assessment for the Masonic Home. 334. Communication in regard to name of depository of lodge funds. 335. Communication regarding retirement of R.'. W.'. ALBERT K. WILSON, Grand Secretary. 336. Communication advising lodges their funds were covered by bond provided by the Grand Lodge. 337. Communication relative to preparing annual report. 338. Communication to Grand Secretaries concerning Masonic Homes. 339. Advice concerning suspension for non-payment of dues. RETIREMENT AS GRAND SECRETARY.
In accordance with the wishes of your Grand Secretary as expressed at the last Annual Communication and the action of the Grand Lodge at that time, your Grand Secretary relinquished the office on October 1, 1928, and had the pleasure of assisting at the installation of his successor, M.-. W.-. ELMEK F . STRAIN.
In relinquishing this important office your Grand Secretary takes this opportunity of expressing his appreciation to the Grand Lodge and the brethren of this jurisdiction for the many honors conferred upon him and courtesies extended during his forty-seven years of service in the ranks of Masonry. To be elected to this high office annually by practically an unanimous vote is one of the greatest honors which can be conferred upon any one in any of the several branches of Masonry. In closing this report your Grand Secretary can only express the hope that his efforts in the future in behalf of our Ancient Craft may receive the approval of the members of this Grand Jurisdiction as in the past, and when he is finally called upon to lay down the working tools of life he may receive the commendation—"Well done thou good and faithful servant." To emphasize "How swiftly the sands of time are running" your Grand Secretary would call attention to the fact that but two Grand Secretaries remain in service who were in office at the time he was first elected—R.-.W.-. Brother FAY HEMPSTEAD, Grand Secretary of Arkansas, and R.'. W.". ALPHEUS A. K E E N , Grand Secretary of New Mexico. Both these brethren are not only his seniors in official service, but likewise in years, and no doubt, like the one preparing this report, will soon be called to that "undiscovered country, from whose bourne no traveler returns." On entering the office on the morning following the installation of the new Grand Secretary, the writer was confronted with those who had served under him, some for many years, and after expressing
382
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
their regret at his retirement, they presented him with a beautiful desk set, accompanied by the following verses, composed by Miss BEATRICE BURGE, one of the assistants, and it is herewith quoted by order of the Grand Lodge: To
OUR
"BOSS-MAN".
We have traveled the high road together For many a long, long day. Through storm and through strife And the battles of life, But we've kept the faith alway. We've stood shoulder to shoulder together And made of the fight a game; In the days that were rough We put up a bluff And marched along, just the same. The high road leads now to a pathway. The rough places now are worn smooth; Your laurels are won. But we'll still carry on And thus our faithfulness prove. May the pathway lead out in green pastures, May the laurels you've won never fade. But there's still work for you— Work you only can do— Press on 'til the goal has been made! SCHEDULE " B . "
Being amount returned by subordinate lodges for year ending December 31, 1927: Grand Lodge No. Name. Dues and Fees. 218 Landmark $ 112 00 342 Maple City 95 00 392 Fostoria 64 00 Total $ 271 00 SCHEDULE " C . "
Being amount received account bond investment for the period ending October 1, 1928: Interest, Fourth Liberty Loan Bonds Interest, School District No. 50, Brown County Total
$ 106 25 105 00 $ 211 25
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
383
ToPBKA, KANSAS, October 1, 1928. ALBERT K . WILSON, Grand Secretary, In account with T H E M.-. W / . GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS. Dr.
CASH ACCOUNT.
Received from lodges as per Schedule " B " $ 271 00 Received as per Schedule " C " 211 25 Received account special dispensation fees (Fowler, 1927) 20 00 Received account unexpended portion Grand Master's Contingent Fund (Fowler, 1927) 322 35 Received account Sample Standard Blanks: Lodges Nos. 21, 22, 106, 138, 198, 267, 285 7 00 Received account certification to Life Membership Certificates 11 25 Received account fees and dues from members of defunct lodges 348 00 Received account sale waste paper 6 07 Received account overpayment of mileage: Claude O. Conkey, $3.50; Ralph M. Harder, $10.85; Grand Treasurer, $40.16 54 51 Received account penalty imposed by Grand Master, Hiram Lodge No. 68 150 00 Received account late White Water Lodge U. D 43 96 Received account late Brainerd Lodge No. 280 375 00 Received account advance payment on sale of property of late Shawnee Lodge No. 54..... 50 00 Received account payment for loss of Ciphers; Lodges Nos. 73, 295, 304, White Water U. D 80 00 Received from Grand Chapter, R. A. M., account maintenance Office and Library Building 850 00 Received from Grand Council, R. & S. M., account maintenance Office and Library Building 350 00 Received from Grand Commandery, K. T., account maintenance Office and Library Building 575 00 Total.... ....$ 3,725 39 ToPEKA, KANSAS, October 1, 1928. T H E M . - . W . - . GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS,
In account with ALBERT K . WILSON, Grand Secretary. 1928. Oct. 1.—Paid W. F . March, Grand Treasurer, since last report .-. $ 3,725 39 Fraternally submitted, ALBERT K . WILSON,
Grand Secretary.
31 31 31 31 31 31
*'eb
Feb.
Jan. Jan. Jan. .Ian. Jan. Jan.
4 4
31 31 31 31 31 31 Feb. 4 l<'eb. 4 Feb. 4 Feb. 4
.Tan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan.
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Jan. 31
1928. Jan. 31
Q
a
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1 R o b e r t H . M o n t g o m e r y . Comm i t t e e Allowance E l m e r F . Strain, C o m m i t t e e Allowance 3 E a r l T. Pyle, C o m m i t t e e Allowance 4 Elrick C. Cole, C o m m i t t e e Allowance 5 E l l s w o r t h B . Sowell, Jr., Comm i t t e e Allowance 0 Francis M . P e a r l , C o m m i t t e e Allowance 7 L a r k i n B . Bowers, M i n o r Salaries.. 8 W . Amer B u r n e t t , M i n o r Salaries.. 9 William J. Bond, M i n o r Salaries... 10 J o h n Wesley B a t e s , M i n o r Salaries 11 Leon L. Cousland, M i n o r Salaries 12 Fidelity & Deposit Co., of M a r y l a n d , Spl. A p p r . Co. of Admin 13 American R a i l w a y E x p . Co 14 A. K. Wilson ir, J o h n F . S t r i c k r o t t 10 T h e Lilley C o m p a n y 17 Zercher Book & Sta. Co 18 C r a n e & C o m p a n y 19 K a n s a s Power & Light Co 20 C i t y Ice C o m p a n y 21 T o p e k a P u r e W a t e r Co 22 T h e Lilley C o m p a n y , G r a n d Master's Apron 23 Zercher Book & Sta. C o 24 C r a n e & C o m p a n y
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2 57 2 58 2 59
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William Frank March, Gr. Treas.,
Charles N. Fowler, Commissioners of Trials William Frank March, Gr. Treas.,
J. O. Darling Co
A. K. Wilson, Exp. Annual Com-
29 48
49 50 51 52 53
Topeka Pure Water Co., Exp. An-
20 2i) 2!l 2!) 2<)
Robert 1'. McColloch, Spl. Appr.
45
2(1 40 2<J 47
24
24 44
James A. Gassier, Commissioners of Trials Lizzie Van Denberg, Spl. Appr. Co.
Water Dept. City of Topel^a
R. C. Burge K. R. Ebey
P. H. Wilson
28 23 23 23 23 23 23 23 23
35 30 37 38 39 40 41 42 43
Ferris M. Hill Ferris M.. Hill, Private Secretary to
J. Forrest Ayres, Expenses and
Capper Engraving Co., Grand Olfl-
Southwestern Bell Tel. Co
23 33 23 34
Feb. 29 55
Feb. Feb. Feb. Feb. Feb. Feb.
Feb. Feb. Feb. Feb.
Feb. Feb. Feb. Feb. Feb. Feb. Feb. Feb. Feb. Feb. Feb. Feb.
Ifob. 4 25 Feb. 4 26 Feb. 7 27 Feb. 7 28 Feb. 7 29 Feb. IH 30 Feb. 13 31 Feb. 13 32
1,293 93
2,889 40
500 00
2 40 30 00
150 00
104 50
50 07
41 43
17 80
600 300 150 100 50
00 00 00 00 00
$ 1,500' 00
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A. K. Wilson, Spl. Appr. Co. of Administratiion
K e t c h e s o n P r i n t i n g Co., P r i n t i n g
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J o h n F . Strickrott K a n s a s B a n k e r s S u r e t y Co., Gr.
A. K. Wilson
A. K. Wilson, Spl. Appr. Co. of
B . H a r o l d Groff, C h a i r m a n , E x p . G r a n d Lodge Communication.. .1 P o p u l a r Science M o n t h l y , L i b r a r y
A. K. Wilson
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25 83
220 29
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29 98
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119 120 121 122 123 124 125 126 127
Apr. 23 118
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Binding, etc F. H. Wilson A. B. Burge R. C. Burge K. R. Ebey Green Scales A. K. Wilson Sullivan Art Store Jolin F. Strickrott American Railway Exp. Co Harvey O. Davis Topelta Pure Water Co Kansas Power & Light Co Jordan Electric Co Crane & Company Crane & Company Western Union Tel. Co City Ice Company Homer-Love Print & Box Co John F. Strickrott Machinists Electric Co A. K. Wilson Ed Jordan Jordan Electric Co Kansas Power & Light Co City Water Department Harvey O. Davis Southwestern Bell Tel. Co Sullivan Art Store John F. Strickrott The Lilley Company Harvey O. Davis B. Harold Groff, Spl. Appr. Co. of Administration Ferris M. HUl, Spl. Appr. Co. of Administration Sullivan Art Store F. H. Wilson A. B. Burge R. C. Burge K. R. Ebey Green Scales American Railway Exp. Co Stanford M. Smart Topeka Pure Water Co
Ma;r. 24 85 A. K. Wilson, Library Furniture,
30 40
103 16
1 60
300 150 100 50
300 150 100 50
00 00 00 00
00 00 00 00
90 00 00 00
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5 00 6 18
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2 60 20 25
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80 43 20 1 50
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208 70
79 25
03 00
to
159 75 O
85 60
3 138 5 139
5 140 5 141 142 9 143
144 145 146 147 148 149 150 151 152 153 154 155 156
May May
May May
May
May May May May May May May May May May May May May
10 10 10 10 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18 18
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
128 129 130 131 132 133 134 135 136 137
u
1928. May May May May May May May May May May
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Albert K. Wilson
Albert K . Wilson Albert K. Wilson
Ferris M . Hill
C i t y T r e a s u r e r , Shawnee, K a n s a s , Spl. Appr. Co. of A d m i n i s t r a t i o n A. K. Wilson Southwestern Bell Tel. Co John F. Strickrott J. Claude Keiper, Secy. Library
K e t c h e s o n P r i n t i n g Co.,
Albert K . Wilson C. A. "Wolf
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10 00
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17 50 4 38 7 50
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12 80
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May May May May
157 158 159 160
June June June Juno June June Juno June June June June June June June Juno June Juno June June June June June June June June June June
170 171 172 173 174 175 176 177 178
179 180 181 182 183
184 185 186 187 188 189
190 191 192 193 194 195 196
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 5 5
5 5 5 5 7
11 11 11 11 11 18
19 19 19 19 19 19 19
May 28 167 June 1 168 June 1 169
163 164 165 166
l(i1 May 25 102
18 1« 18 25 25
May May May May May
Printing
Albert K. Wilson
O. Nieman, Spl. Appr. Co. of AdP. H. Wilson
A. K. Wilson
Levi E. Zinamerman, Spl. Appr. Co
Albert K. Wilson
Ketcheson Printing Co.
Albert K. Wilson ...
J. Forrest Ayres, Commissioners of Trials A. K. Wilson James A. Gassier, Commissioners Pantagrapli Printing & Stationery Co. List of Regular Lodges....
R G. Burge K. R. Ebey .
Albert K. Wilson.... F. H . Wilson
2 32
37 50
28 00
160 75
56 36
44 62
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215 216 217
'218
July July July July July July
July
July 7i219 July 7|220 July 7,221 July 7,222 july 10,223
3 207 3 208 3 209 3 210 3 211
July July July July July
1928 June 19 197 June 19 198 Juno 19 199 June 20 200. June 20 201 June 23 202 June 23 203 June 23 204 June 23 205 July 3 206
American Multlgraph Sales Co.. John F. Strickrott Crane & Company Roy T. Fair Fred M. Nellans A. B. Burge R. C. Burge K. R. Ebey Green Scales Frank D. Sperry, Commissioners of Trials Western Typewriter Oo Graham-Ship-By-Truck Co J. C. DarUng Co Crane & Company A. B . Jackson Show Case Works Co., Kansas City, Library Furniture, Binding, Etc The Torch Press Sullivan Art Store American Railway Exp. Co Jordan Electric Co Topeka Pure Water Co Paul Ross, Spl. Appr.. Grand Master Fred M. Nellans, Spl. Appr. Grand Master Edlphone Company Topeka Transfer & Storage Co John P. Strickrott City Ice Company Ferris M. Hlli;.
In Favor of
40 00
256 36
184 00 7 50
14 00
200 00
ISO 00 100 00 50 00
WARRANT ACCOUNT—Continued.
8 15
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July July July July July July
July July July July July July July Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug. Aug.
Sept. 1 263 Sept. 1 264
230 231 232 233 234 235
10 224 10 225 1(1 22() 1(1 22V 10 228 10 229
.liily July July July July July
Library Furniture,
Lizzie V a n D e n b e r g , Spl. A p p r . C o .
Albert K. Wilson Albert K . Wilson F . H . Wilson
R. C. Burge
Southwestern Bell Tel. Co
K. R. E b e y
R . C. Burge
F . H . Wilson F . H . Wilson
B . W . Krafl. Spl. A p p r . Co. of
J. H . Tatsch,
Albert K. Wilson Albert K . Wilson S o u t h w e s t e r n Bell Tel. C o
164 50
257 50
67 50
300 00 150 00
100 00
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300 00 150 00 100 00
25 00 450 00 300 00
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84 85 00
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60 35 00 70
1 98
1 6 2 27
25 281 25 282 25 283 25 284 25 285 25 286 25 287
Sept. 25 288 Sept. 25 289 Sept. 25 290
Sept. Sept. Sept. Sept. Sept. Sept. Sept,
Sept. 22 278 Sept. 24 279 Sept. 25 280
Sept. 22 277
Albert K . Wifion
18 268 18 269 18 270 18 271 18 272 18 273 18 274 18 275 18 276
Sept. Sept. Sept. Sept. Sept. Sept. Sept. Sept. Sept.
Zercher Book & Sta. Co
WUber P . Webster, G r a n d Secy.
K. E . Ebey
Newell A b r a h a m s , General Agent, Lodge Bond P r e m i u m . F . H . Wilson..
J.
Albert K. Wilson, C h a r i t y Fund....
J . F o r r e s t Ayres, Commissioners of Trials .' C r o s b y B r o t h e r Co., L i b r a r y F u r -
Southwestern Bell Tel. Co
Albert K. Wilson, Chr. C o m m i t t e e
6 267
Sept.
In Favor of
J. H. Tatsch, Library Furniture,.
o 3
1
1928. Sept. 1 2 6 5 Sept. 4 266
a Q
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1,989 38
170 00 300 00
92 27
87 00
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G.
Albert K . Wilson.: Albert K. AVilson T h o m a s G. F i t c h , Secy., Masonic
Sept. 25 296 Oct. 1 297
291 292 293 294
Thomas
25 25 25 25
Sept. 25 295
Sept. Sept. Sept. Sept. 11 25
S 14,306 52 S 7,811 94 $ 1 , 5 0 0 00 $
700 00
150 00 S
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394
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
REPORT OF LIBRARIAN.
R.-. W.-. ALBERT K . WILSON, Librarian, presented the following report, which, on motion of R.'. W/. GEORGE F . BEEZLEY, was referred to the Council of Administration with full authority to act: To The M.: W.: Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: In presenting his final report your Librarian, who is likewise Grand Secretary, feels that an explanation is due the Grand Lodge as to the actual conditions, as the library is not cataloged and indexed up to date. At the time of his election the Grand Lodge owned but few Masonic books, such as histories, works on jurisprudence, Landmarks, and many other subjects, but through the care and thoughtfulness of his predecessors there was a large accumulation of Masonic periodicals, magazines, addresses and other data of that kind. This material, however, was not assorted or arranged in an accessible manner and it was therfore necessary t o arrange it in proper order so it would be easy of access for indexing. This was done as soon as practicable and in 1903 a competent librarian
was
employed—Brother
THEODORE H . MORRISON—who
devoted several years to cataloging and indexing all the material on hand, together with the Proceedings of our own Grand Lodge, up to and including the year 1911. Owing to the death of Brother MORRISON on February 17, 1912, this work was suspended and since that time we have been unable to secure the services of one competent to continue the indexing and cataloging of our hbrary. Since that time there has been added to the library thousands of books, Masonic magaziriies, periodicals, addresses, programs and other important printed matter, all of which has been carefully filed and placed in such shape that it is ready for immediate reference when we can secure the services of one competent to take u p the work where Brother MORRISON left off. Full authority has been given your Librarian from tirne t o time by t h e Grand Lodge to employ such help, but with his many other duties and responsibilities he has not been able to make the necessary inquiry looking toward the employment of some one, but the time has now come and under present conditions it is hoped this will be done. Your Librarian is pleased to report, however, that the Proceedings of our Grand Lodge have been indexed up to date. While we have not been able to carry on the work of cataloging the library, yet no opportunity has been overlooked by your Librarian to secure a t all times any valuable or rare Masonic books, periodicals or other material which he felt would enhance the value of either our
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
395
library or the museum and during the past year he has purchased the following very rare and valuable Masonic books, many of which are quite old and out of print: Constitutions of the "Free and Accepted Masons" of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts; Worcester, Massachusetts, 1798. "Histoire des Personnes qui ont vecu plusiers siecles, etc.," D E LONGEVILLE HARCOUET, Paris, 1716.
"The Plain Dealer," 2 vols., original covers, but uniformly rebacked in fine calf. "Geist der Freimaurerei," 1780. (1st German ed). HUTCHINSON.
"Masonic Charges and Lectures," 1880. YARKER. (Only 100 copies printed). "Obelisk.and Freemasonry." WEISSE. (Auto presentation copy to Governor HORATIO SEYMOUR of New York).
"Great Pyramid of Ghizeh." "Masonic Trestleboard."
MOTET.
(Out of print).
MOORE and CARNEGY, 1843.
"Study in American Freemasonry." PRBUSS, 1920. "Freemason and Roman Catholic in the U. S." ELLIS. (Believed to have been suppressed.) "Compass and Square with Symbolism." (For women only). Grand Masters' Conference, 1918. Report of Overseas Mission, 1918. (Original issue.) "History of the Imperial Council, A. A. O. N . M. S." "Masonic Poems." MORRIS. 1864. (First edition.) "Koran of Mohammed." 1821. (2 vols.) "Ancient Mysteries Described." 1823. (1st ed., with plates.) "Freemasonry." Fox. 1872. "Halliwell Ms.,"
HAMBURG.
Ed. 1842.
"House of Solomon." MERZ. "Builders of Man." GIBSON. (Auto, and bookplate.) "Origin of the Royal Arch." OLIVER. "Winter with Robert Burns," 1846. First biography of Burns to mention his Masonic connections. "Burns," Poet Laureate. "Robert Burns."
PEACOCK & MACKENZIE.
"Robert Burns and Freemasonry." WRIGHTV. (Scarce and out of print.) Statutes and Regulations A. & A. S. R. 1859. (Original edition.) A. & A. S. R. 5632. (Original.) "Brief History of the A. & A. S. R." SHERMAN, 1890. In addition to the above the following have been added to our Library during the year: "Oeuvres de Jean Racine." ANGERS. 1836. Proceedings of Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, 1815—1844. (2 vols.)
396
PROCEEDINGS
"Masonic Bookplates."
OF THE
February,
TATSCH and PRESCOTT.
"A Guide t o Literature for Character Training."
STABBUCK and
SHUTTLEWOKTH.
Kansas Facts. Brief History 89th Div. U. S. A. 1917-18-19. Transattions Supreme Council A. & A. S. R. Southern Jurisdiction. 1927. Minutes of the 18th Annual Convention of The George Washington National Memorial Association. 1928. Conference of Grand Masters of Masons in the U. S. 1928. Masonic Charity Foundation of Connecticut. 1927. "Symbolism of t h e Three Degrees." OLIVER DAY STREET. (3 vols.) " T h e Compasses."
SAMUEL PFRIMMER.
' "Pocket Guide to Science." "Practices and Customs of the American Craft." TATSCH. "The Trial of Christ from a Lawyer's Standpoint." FEAD. Statutes of Kansas. 1927. " "Temples of Service."
JAMES E . FREEMAN.
"Masonic Manual and Code." GEORGIA. Proceedings of the Supreme Council 33° A. A. S. R., Northern Jurisdiction, 1928. MUSEUM.
At t h e time your Librarian was elected to the office of Grand Secretary thirty-five years ago no attempt had been made to form or assemble a Masonic museum, and believing such a department was indispensable in maintaining a Masonic Library he began the work of gathering old and rare articles which had been used in the earlier days by the lodges in this jurisdiction, and in addition many other relics of a Masonic character from various-parts of the world. At a reasonably early date all the material forming the Masonic Museum should be properly listed and wherever possible a history of the particular article recorded. The Grand Lodge is to be congratulated in having provided a magnificent fireproof building, properly arranged and equipped not only for the Grand Lodge Library, but the Masonic Museum and without doubt ample space has been provided to meet the needs along both lines for many years to come. Fraternally submitted, ALBERT K . WILSON,
Librarian.
,1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
397
GRAND SECRETARY'S REPORT.
M.-. W.-. ELMER F . STRAIN submitted the following report, which, on motion of R.-. W.'. GEORGE F . BEEZLEY, was referred to the Committee on Reports of Grand Officers: To The M:. W:. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: It is an honor beyond the power of language to express to be called to report the remaining portion of the final year as Grand Secretary of our distinguished and greatly beloved brother, R/. W.'. ALBERT K . WILSON. His voluntary retirement does not diminish the general regret that he should lay down the work which has been so well and faithfully done for thirty-five years. • His faithfulness to duty and his constant loyalty to Symbolic Masonry will stand as an inspiration and a shining example for those who are to follow. There is for us, however, this comfort and joy—his work is a part of our history and out of this service has come a system of Masonic records not surpassed. In addition, he still labors in t h e quarry on a duty long enjoined and which will unquestionably bring to us a needed record and much pride in our forefathers who pioneered in Masonry and statesmanship, from which we can find courage for the efforts necessary to perpetuate the institution upon the solid foundation laid. My appreciation of this call is very great and the service has been a very happy one in that our now Grand Secretary Emeritus has been so gracious and helpful. MASONIC DISTRICTS.
The only change made in districts was Sylvia Lodge No. 391 transferred from District No. 62 to District No. 41. GRAND REPRESENTATIVES NEAR OTHER GRAND LODGES. The following appointments of Grand Representatives of our Grand Lodge were made: Louisiana
WILLIAM M . GUICE, JR
Shreveport
North Carolina
GRADY J. SHEPHERD
Greensboro
GRAND REPRESENTATIVES NEAR OUR GRAND LODGE. Our M.'. W.'. Grand Master recommended the following brethren for appointment as Grand Representatives and in due time commissions were received and transmitted: Massachusetts
WILLIAM L . BURDICK
Puerto Rico
EDGAR T . FOSTER
Lawrence
Colony
398
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
CONSOLIDATION OP OTTAWA LODGE NO. 1 8 , OF OTTAWA, AND MELODY LODGE NO. 4 0 0 , OF OTTAWA.
Under an edict issued by the M.-. W.'. Grand Master dated November 8, 1928, Ottawa Lodge No. 18 of Ottawa, and Melody Lodge No. 400 of Ottawa, were consolidated under the name and number of Ottawa Lodge No. 18. On November 13, 1928, the charter and seal of Melody Lodge was received, and all other property of Melody Lodge was turned over to Ottawa Lodge No. 18, and due acknowledgment was made to this office. MEMBERS OF LATE SHAWNEE LODGE NO. 5 4 SUBJECT TO SUSPENSION.
Under the Grand Lodge laws the following members of late Shawnee Lodge No. 54, having failed to pay their dues and make application for a Grand Secretary's Certificate, are subject to suspension at this Annual Communication: ALDEN, DBLBERT M . ALDEN, WILLIS B . ANDERSON, JAMES F . BOSCHULTE, AUGUST CARL, SAMUEL T . CURRY, CLYDE L . DAVIS, GEORGE L . F I S H E R , OTIS W . F R I S B I E , GLENN H . GEYSELS, JOSEPH R . GILHAM, JOHN W . GILBERT, GEORGE W .
HAMILTON, HENRY J. H I T E , S. WESLEY HORNEK, RAY L . LAKSEN, CHRISTIAN H . LOWRY, CHESTER A. MELLON, HARRY E . MILLER, DEWEY OVERLEY, CHARLES M . PHOENIX, CHARLES T . SANDERS, JOHN W . SULLIVAN, H . BRADLEY VAN W I N K L E , ARTHUR T .
SALE OF PROPERTY OF LATE SHAWNEE LODGE NO. 54. Under our Constitution the Grand Lodge came into possession of the Masonic Temple property at Shawnee, and a tentative agreement for the purchase of the same by the Order of the Eastern Star at Shawnee failed. Under date of October 12th the Grand Master directed the return of $50.00 earnest money paid by the Eastern Star committee, and that we enter into arrangements, through our agent. Brother C. NIEMAN of Shawnee, for the sale of the property. On October 19th I had a conference with Brother NIEMAN and other members of the Star committee and delivered to them voucher for $50.00. This voucher was not cashed and another effort was made by the Star committee to harmonize the differences and take over the property. By direction of and with the authority of the Grand Master another conference was held with this committee at Shawnee under
1928-29.
GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS.
399
date of November 17th, and the committee accepted our proposition to sell them the property subject to a mortgage of $4,700.00 and any and every liability under rental contracts in force with the I. O. O. F., the Rebekahs and other organizations, the purchasers to pay the 1928 taxes, for a cash consideration of $935.65. This latter amount represented the outlay of the Grand Lodge for interest, taxes and other items which had to be met out of Grand Lodge funds, but did not include expenses incurred by Grand Lodge officers in handling. The Eastern Star committee claimed credit for the amount of dues collected by this office as charged against the brethren upon the books of Shawnee Lodge and for which Grand Secretary's certificates were issued. This particular feature was fully discussed and it was agreed by parties to the contract that this amount should go into the Grand Lodge treasury subject to any future action it might take. At the conclusion of the conference the committee returned our $50.00 warrant and $885.65 in cash. The warrant has been cancelled. Subsequently we received from our agent $7.39 as representing the amount remaining in his hands from rentals. REDUCED RAILROAD FARE.
Our Kansas railroads have authorized one and one-half fare for the round trip for this Annual Communication. This is for record, and it might not be inappropriate to enjoin upon the brethren the value of these necessary utilities. GRAND S E C R E T A R Y ' S CERTIFICATES.
The following Grand Secretary's Certificates have been issued: No. 962. No. 963.
JOHN H . COLVIN, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. EDIL H . NELSON, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee.
No. 964. RAY O." NORTHAM, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No.
965. 966. 967. 968. 969. 970. 971. 972. 973.
No. No. No. No. No. No.
974. 975. 976. 977. 978. 979.
ORRIN CLYDE CAMPBELL, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. HOWARD F . RIGGS, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. CLARENCE D . CHEATUM, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. CLARENCE E . BIRD, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. GILBERT W . JONES, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. JOHN C . FAST, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. FRED F . AMORE, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. JOHN ALLEN BARTLESON, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. WALTER CHARLES BARTBERGER, Shawnee Lodge No. 54,
Shawnee. GEORGE B . OWENS, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. HARRY W . PUESER, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. N E I L B . B U I E , Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. CHARLES H . LOOMIS, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. ABRAM PEACHY, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. EDWARD C . ZILLHART, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee.
400
No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No.
PROCEEDINGS
980. 981. 982. 983. 984. 985. 986. 987. 988. 989. 990. 991. 992. 993. 994. 995. 996. 997. 998. 999. 1000. 1001. 1002. 1003.
OF THE
February.
VERNON K . CAMPBELL, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. CARL E . GODDARD, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. L E E A . COX, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. JOSEPH WALTER MCNATT, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee.
JOSEPH A. HERBERT, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. ALBERT J. BLATTMAN, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. GILBERT GARRETT, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. PAUL H . WILLIAMS, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. FREDERICK H . PEACHEY, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. GEORGE BURRESS, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. JOHN D . REYNOLDS, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. WILLIAM N . FOSTER, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. FRANK R . FOSTER, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. SULLIVAN CAMPBELL, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. FRANK A. HARDESTY, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. WINFIELD S . FERGUSON, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. ERNEST B . PETTERSON, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. ERNEST W . SANDERS, Shawnee Lodgs No. 54, Shawnee. BERT C . CLARK, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. ALBERT E . FRASER, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. ELMER F . BIRD, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. RICHARD 0 . DAVIS, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. VIRGIL C. HARTLEY, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. HUGH C . SATTERWHITE, Shawnee Lodge No. 54, Shawnee. ANNUAL REPORTS.'
The annual reports came to us very satisfactorily barring the four lodges whose reports arrived late. The blue ribbon is awarded White City Lodge No. 380, their report having arrived on December 14th. Fortunately there were no deaths during December or dimissions at their stated meeting of December 26th. The greater difficulty experienced was in getting reports back which had been returned for correction. I t must be apparent from the experience of the past that the ever changing stream of Secretaries, for lack of experience or training, can never appreciate the necessity of promptness in handling these matters, nor to understand fully what a request for reply by return mail means. Most of our District Deputies have given special supervision of this particular question and the reports of their activities in many instances are refreshing indeed, and in others results were obtained under great difficulty. Additional methods will be adopted to accomplish the necessary results and t o meet this situation. Confusion has arisen concerning lodge dues and Grand Lodge tax on Certificates of Transfer which hang over the end of the year. The law is not entirely clear, but certainly does not intend to afford the member continuous affiliation while transferring and permit him to
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
401
escape either lodge dues or the Grand Lodge tax. Two specific instances are given as the best illustration of the situation: Brother I. WINTERS FUNCK was issued a Certificate of Transfer by Oakley Lodge No. 253, December 21, 1927, and was elected in Saqui Lodge No. 160, of Osborne. Subsequent to his election, Oakley Lodge issued a dimit as of December 21, 1927, claiming credit in their 1928 report for over-payment in 1927. Brother JOE WILBER BEGGS was granted a Certificate of Transfer by Patmos Lodge No. 97 of El Dorado, October 6, 1927, and was elected in Winfield Lodge No. 110, December 1, 1927. Incident to delay in reporting the election and granting dimit, Brother BEGGS was carried on the 1927 annual report of both lodges. We have held that under the Constitution every member was subject to the Grand Lodge tax and that it should be paid by the lodge to which the brother actually belonged at the end of December. Under this interpretation we have declined to allow Oakley Lodge to take credit in 1928 of the tax paid on Brother FUNCK and have refunded the tax paid by Patmos Lodge in 1927 on Brother BEGGS. This situation is presented that the law may be supplemented if found desirable. Grand Lodge Dues. A striking example of the failure of lodge oflicers to consider the desirability and the necessity of complete records is found in the remittances for Grand Lodge dues. Only a small minority of the lodges issued a lodge warrant or Order on the Treasurer, and have the Grand Lodge's receipt thereon for the amount. The majority have paid this year, as previously, by personal check, the check of the Secretary or the Treasurer, or by cashier's check. All money paid out by a lodge should be on its warrant, which should be returned to the lodge with the endorsement or receipt of the payee thereon. The law is specific on this subject and interested lodge officers should correct their practice. Subsequent to the receipt of report and remittance from Powhattan Lodge No. 363 of Powhattan, the Bank of Powhattan was reported as having failed and the lodge's warrant was returned to them and claim is being prepared against the bonding company. Delavan Lodge No. 375 of Delavan advised shortly after reporting that the Bank of Delavan had failed and the cashier's check enclosed would not be honored, hence it was returned to them. Proper papers for making claim against the bonding company were forwarded to the Secretary. Illegal Election. Analysis of the statement below showing elections at other than the time provided by law, indicates that a number of our lodges considered the new law in efifect, notwithstanding advice sent from this
402
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
office specifically stating that these laws would not become effective until proclamation and publication in the Proceedings. The dates shown are taken from the annual reports: Election Should have held. been held. Oskaloosa Lodge No. 14, Oskaloosa December 6 December 20 Arcana Lodge No. 31, Doniphan....December 3, 1927....December 22 White Cloud Lodge No. 78, White Cloud December 5 December 19 Delaware Lodge No. 96, White Church December 14 December 15 Carson Lodge No. 132, Elk City... December 10 December 24 Lenexa Lodge No. 135, Lenexa December 27 December 22 Minneapolis Lodge No. 143, Minneapolis December 12 December 26 Luray Lodge No. 153, Luray December 4 December 18 Lincoln Lodge No. 154, Lincoln December 27 December 13 Sabetha Lodge No. 162, Sabetha December 12 December 26 Parkerville Lodge No. 168, Parkerville .....November 27 December 25 Fraternal Lodge No. 170, Linn December 11 December 25 Bennington Lodge No. 180, Bennington December 12 December 26 Ellinwood Lodge No. 217, Ellinwood November 28 December 26 Ashland Lodge No. 277, Ashland....December 27 December 13 Preston Lodge No. 283, Cimarron..December 12 December 26 Samaria Lodge No. 298, Wilson December 5 December 19 Naphtali Lodge No. 310, Almena....December 4 December 18 Virginia Lodge No. 315, Savonburg December 6 December 20 Coolidge Lodge No. 316, Coolidge ..December 11 December 25 Allen Lodge No. 335, Allen December 6 December 20 Leoti Lodge No. 340, Leoti December 10 December 24 Freeport Lodge No. 389, Freeport ..December 10 December 24 Goff Lodge No. 430, Goff December 4 December 18 Stanley Lodge No. 444, Stanley December 4 December 18
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
403
No Date of Election Given. The date when the annual election was held was not given on the reports from the following lodges: Lafayette No. 16, Manhattan. Halstead No. 46, Halstead. Tuscan No. 82, Neosho Falls. Doric No. 83, Eudora. Woodson No. 121, Toronto. Landmark No. 218, Mound Valley. Stafford No. 252, Stafford. Argonia No. 285, Argonia.
Lotus No. 286, Blue Mound. Randall No. 304, Randall. Rob Morris No. 332, Preston. Buffalo No. 379, Buffalo. Freeport No. 389, Freeport. Lecompton No. 420, Lecompton. Minneola No. 431, Minneola. Stanley No. 444, Stanley.
No Date for Holding Stated Communications. The following lodges failed to indicate the time for holding their Stated Communications: Arcana No. 31, Doniphan. Nine Mile No. 49, Lansing. Doric No. 83, Eudora. Greeley No. 211, Greeley. Lotus No. 286, Blue Mound.
Buffalo No. 379, Buffalo. Latham No. 401, Latham. St. Francis No. 404, St. Francis. Minneola No. 431, Minneola.
Lodges Denied Representation. Credentials were withheld from the following lodges for failure to report or pay dues within the time provided by law: Tuscan Lodge No. 82, Neosho Falls. Halcyon Lodge No. 120, Peabody. Greeley Lodge No. 211, Greeley. Robert E. Sherman Lodge No. 369, Kansas City. Wilmore Lodge No. 412, Wilmore. The Master of every lodge ought to feel a special interest in all of the work of his secretary and particularly in the annual report. The reasons for failure to report on time and for delay in returning reports cover only such conditions as are common to all men. The work of a lodge is not a one man responsibility. If the Secretary is under affliction and unable to make the report it can easily be done by any brother who will follow directions which accompany the blank report. Without in any way criticising any of these lodges I feel safe in saying that the failure in each case was entirely preventable. Concerning our Membership. The large nunriber of suspensions indicates that even Masons lag because of credit inflation and imposes upon lodge officers the necessity of watchfulness to prevent accumulated delinquencies. The restoration of illegally suspended brethren during 1927 will account for figures of any lodge shown under Synopsis of Returns as out of balance.
404
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
SUMMARY FOR 1928.
Number members December 31, 1927
83,401
Increase. Number Number Number Number Number Number
initiated passed raised., admitted restored omitted last report
Number Number Number Number Number Number
Decrease. dimitted died suspended expelled members Shawnee Lodge No. 54 members White Water Lodge U. D
Net gain Number members December 31, 1928
3,003 2,765 2,698 728 177 85=3,688
872 1,040 1,288 15 133 33=3,381 307 83,708
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
405
ESTIMATED REVENUE AND EXPENSES FOR THE ENSUING YEAR.
Revenue. Fifty cents per capita on 83,708 $41,854 00 Miscellaneous 800 00 Amount from Grand Chapter, Grand Council and Grand Commandery toward maintenance of building 1,775 00 Expenses. Assistant to Grand Secretary $ Committee allowance (By-Law 49) Expenses Grand Lodge Communication Expenses and per diem of Lecturer Expenses of Trial Commission Grand Master's apron Grand Master's contingent fund Grand Master's salary Grand Treasurer's bond premium Grand Secretary's bond premium Grand Treasurer's salary Grand Secretary's salary Grand Secretary Emeritus Grand Secretary's incidentals Grand Secretary Emeritus incidentals r Grand Officers' portraits Historical Registry and Abstract Library, furniture, binding, etc Lodge bond premium Mileage to representatives (By-Law 51) Mileage and expenses (By-Laws 49 and 50) Minor salaries (By-Law 48) Office and Library Building Printing Annual Proceedings Printing and Binding Grand Lodge Laws Postage and express Private Secretary to Grand Master Salary Chairman Committee on Correspondence (ByLaw 49) Stationery and printing Stenographic and clerical services Taxes •
3,600 150 600 1,600 900 61 1,500 800 87 10 100
00 00 00 00 00 50 00 00 50 00 00
3,000 1,200 500 50 600 800 2,000 3,000 1,600 150 2,500 4,500 4,800 1,000 600
00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00
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1928-29.
No. 52 53 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63...: 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108
GRAND
LODGE
OF
Grand Lodge Dues. $ 84 00 89 00 130 00 172 00 78 00 129 00 121 00 1,550 00 114 00 230 00. 171 00 163 00 127 00 179 00 159 00 306 00 68 00 148 00 363 00 70 00 100 00 513 00 218 00 222 00 234 00 89 00 210 00 291 00 52 00 64 00 76 00 117 00 99 00 1,517 00 125 00 165 00 97 00 834 00 365 00 120 00 280 00 337 00 337 00 134 00 1,025 00 437 00 1,901 00 277 00 159 00 760 00 610 00 158 00 146 00 369 00 865 00 75 00
407
KANSAS.
Masonic Home. 79 00 89 00 107 00 142 00 63 00 129 00 121 00 1,245 00 104 00 170 00 146 00 133 00 117 00 179 00 134 00 276 00 57 00 133 00 253 00 70 00 95 00 433 00 193 00 179 00 204 00 84 00 185 00 261 00 42 00 58 00 76 00 112 00 94 00 1,252 00 105 00 150 00 • 81 00 754 00 275 00 100 00 250 00 307 00 312 00 124 00 927 00 377 00 1,576 00 226 00 125 00 634 00 565 00 133 00 131 00 268 00 780 00 70 00
$
Total 163 00 178 00 237 00 314 00 136 00 258 00 242 00 2,795 00 218 00 400 00 317 00 296 00 244 00 358 00 293 00 582 00 125 00 281 00 616 00 140 00 195 00 946 00 411 00 401 00 438 00 173 00 395 00 552 00 94 00 122 00 152 00 229 00 193 00 2,769 00 230 00 315 00 178 00 1,588 00 640 00 220 00 ,530 00 644 00 649 00 258 00 1,952 00 814 00 3,477 00 503 00 284 00 1,394 00 1,175 00 291 00 277 00 637 00 1,645 00 145 00
408
FEEDINGS
No. 109... 110... 111... 112... 113... 114... 115... 116... 117... 118... 119... 120... 121... 122... 123... 124... 125... 126.. 127.. 128.. 129.. 130.. 131.. 132.. 133.. 134.. 135.. 136.. 137.. 138.. 139.. 140.. 141.. 142.. 143.. 144.. 145.. 146.. 147.. 148.. 149.. 150.. 151.. 152.. 153.. 154.. 155.. 156.. 157.. 158.. 159.. 160.. 161.. 162., 163., 164. 165.
Grand Lodge Masonic Dues. Home. Total. 124 00 !5 94 00 $ 218 00 646 00 541 00 1,187 00 158 00 138 00 296 00 87 00 87 00 174 00 342 00 318 00 660 00 237 00 207 00 444 00 114 00 79 00 193 00 107 00 82 00 189 00 712 00 657 00 1,369 00 .107 00 107 00 214 00 196 00 181 00 377 00 284 00 254 00 538 00 174 00 144 00 318 00 117 00 107 00224 00 85 00 75 00 160 00 36 00 31 00 67 00 115 00 100 00 215 00 45 00 40 00 85 00 108 00 83 00 191 00 93 00 73 00 166 00 247 00 237 00 484 00 87 00 77 00 164 00 95 00 75 00 170 00 129 00 104 00 233 00 912 00 722 00 1,634 00 266 00 251 00 517 00 78 00 78 00 156 00 238 00 214 00 452 00 294 00 260 00 554 00 80 00 71 00 151 00 134 00 107 00 241 00 1,005 00 900 00 1,905 00 210 00 175 00 385 00 737 00 667 00 1,404 00 175 00 160 00 335 00 208 00 203 00 411 00 294 00 259 00 553 00 304 00 244 00 548 00 258 00 243 00 501 00 218 00 198 00 416 00 108 00 93 00 201 00 645 00 530 00 1,175 00 287 00 252 00 539 00 178 00 142 00 320 00 108 00 87 00 195 00 237 00 207 00 444 00 147 00 127 00 • • 274 00 151 00 136 00 287 00 130 00 105 00 235 00 523 00 405 00 928 00 139 00 109 00 248 00 204 00 184 00 388 00 142 00 122 00 264 00 245 00 215 00 460 00 58 00 58 00 116 00 244 00 199 00 443 00 257 00 152 00 409 00
OF THE
February,
1928-29.
No. 166 167 168 169 170 171 172 173 174 175 176 177 178 179 180 181 182 183 184 185 186 187 188 189 190 191 192 193 194 195 196 197 198 199 200 201 202 203 204 205 206 207 208 209 210 211 212 213 214 215 216 217 218 219 220 221 222
GRAND LODGE OF
Grand Lodge Dues. $ 102 00 346 00 58 00 210 00 52 00 296 00 386 00 145 00 249 00 171 00 147 00 177 00 89 00 227 00 102 00 102 00 150 00 Ill 00 201 00 93 00 205 00 1,538 00 233 00 161 00 113 00 207 00 232 00 182 00 170 00 269 00 355 00 202 00 143 00 268 00 206 00 177 00 125 00 221 00 174 00 146 00 212 00 134 00 101 00 146 00 128 00 59 00 167 00 134 00 93 00 71 00 86 00 141 00 96 00 152 00 124 00 126 00 654 00
KANSAS.
Masonic Home. $ 93 00 301 00 53 00 175 00 47 00 266 00 296 00 129 00 204 00 141 00 132 00 170 00 79 00 192 00 92 00 97 00 131 00 106 00 191 00 93 00 175 00 1,358 00 173 00 141 00 113 00 182 00 222 00 137 00 160 00 237 00 180 00 182 00 113 00 228 00 201 00 167 00 80 00 201 00 164 00 131 00 192 00 109 00 86 00 101 00 103 00 53 00 143 00 117 00 78 00 61 00 75 00 101 00 91 00 132 00 98 00 116 00 539 00
409 Total. 195 00 647 00 111 00 385 00 99 00 562 00 682 00 274 00 453 00 312 00 279 00 347 00 168 00 419 00 194 00 199 00 281 00 217 00 392 00 186 00 380 00 2,896 00 406 00 302 00 226 00 389 00 454 00 319 00 330 00 506 00 535 00 384 00 256 00 496 00 407 00 344 00 205 00 422 00 338 00 277 00 404 00 243 00 187 00 247 00 231 00 112 00 310 00 251 00 171 00 132 00 161 00 242 00 187 00 284 00. 222 00 242 00 1,193 00
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cooo<JO>o^^^co^OMOcDoo-^cscn^fc>-co^^l-locooo"^05c^4^co^^^-'0<ooo-^cn>c^4^coI^^^-*ocDOT*ao5aI^^cot^^H-lOcDoo-:^asc^^t^
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1928-29.
No.
280 281 282 283 284 285 286 287 288 289 290 291 292 293 294 295 296 29V 298....: 299 300 301 302..... 303 304 305 306 307 308 309 310 311 312 313 314 315.... 316 317 318 319 320 321.. 322 323 324 325 326 327 328 329 330 331 332 333 334 335 336
GRAND
LODGE OF KANSAS.
Grand Lodge Dues. $ 51 00 130 00 134 00 133 00 113 00 69 00 101 00 156 00 94 00 112 00 150 00 107 00 126 00 104 00 132 00 131 00 69 00 190 00 150 00 136 00 177 00 181 00 55 00 3,172 00 44 00 114 00 166 00 417 00 101 00 209 00 171 00 613 00 79 00 71 00 146 00 227 00 50 00 71 00 99 00 155 00 80 00 281 00 594 00 82 00 299 00 115 00 350 00 138 00 102 00 167 00 164 00 260 00 107 00 525 00 91 00 72 00 151 00
Masonic Home. $ 46 00 125 00 95 00 128 00 82 00 64 00 86 00 141 00 80 00 102 00 145 00 92 00 101 00 99 00 112 00 121 00 64 00 180 00 120 00 111 00 157 00 131 00 55 00 2,613 00 44 00 84 00 151 00 367 00 81 00 154 00 141 00 569 00 49 00 66 00 121 00 177 00 40 00 71 00 79 00 125 00 75 00 261 00 554 00 77 00 255 00 104 00 305 00 118 00 82 00 112 00 134 00 205 00 97 00 455 00 81 00 62 00 126 00
411
$
Total.
. 97 255 229 261 195 133 187 297 174 214 295 199 227 203 244 252 133 370 270 247 334 312 110 5,785 88 198 317 784 182 363 312 1,182 128 137 267 404 90 142 178 280 155 542 1,148 159 554 219 655 256 184 279 298 465 204 980 172 134 277
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414
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SCHEDULE " B . "
Being amount received account bond investment for the period October 1, 1928 to January 21, 1929: Interest, Bonds 1 to 7, School District No. 50, Brown County..$105 OO Total
$105 OO CASH ACCOUNT.
Received. Schedule " A " $ 180,720 00 Schedule " B " 105 00 Sample Standard Blanks, Frankfort Lodge No. 67 1 00 Certification to Life Membership Certificates 6 75 Payment for lost Cipher, Newton Lodge No. 142 20 00 Dues and fees from members of defunct lo'dges 374 00 Special dispensation fees (Hill, 1928) 270 00 Sale of property of late Shawnee Lodge No. 54 885 65 Cash on hand late Shawnee Lodge No. 54 7 39 Refund premium on tornado insurance policies on property of late Shawnee Lodge No. 54 3 64 Refund of express charges on Books of Annual Returns: Marquette Lodge No. 353; Claflin Lodge No. 424. 71 Refund on premium of bond covering depository of lodge funds of Fidelity Lodge No. 106, approval of which was withdrawn 3 57 Daily balance interest 503 70 Total
$ 182,901 41
Remitted. To W. F. March, Grand Treasurer, October 1, 1928, to January 24, 1929 $ 182,901 41 Fraternally submitted, ELMER F . STRAIN;
Grand Secretary.
4 300 1 301 4 302 4 303 4 304 4 305 4 306 4 307 10 308 10 309 10 310 10 311 20 312
15 313 15 314 15 315 15 310 15 317 15 318 20 319
20 320 20 321 20 322 20 323 24 324
Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Nov.
Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct.
Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct.
Oct. 24 325
4 298 4 299
1
Oct. Oct.
1928.
O
•-1
3
•d
Albert iC. Wilson...
T.'.
G r a h a m - S h i p - B y - T r u c k Co., Lib-
Albert K. Wilson
M o o r e S t a t i o n e r y Co., L i b r a r y ,
J . Newell A b r a h a m s , G r a n d Sec-
J . C. Darling Co Southwestern Bell Tel. Co
E l m e r F . Strain
J . F o r r e s t Ayres, Expenses a n d P e r Diem, Commissioners of Trials
T o t a l s from R e p o r t of Albert K.
In Favor of
CO
"3
00
ed.
4 25
95
4 15
39 63
S 14,306 52 S 7,811 94 S 1,500 00 $
O
WARRANT ACCOUNT — C o n l i n u
c e
15 15
13 66 3 50
2 37
5 87 30 5 00 5 50 13 45
90 60 5 00
S
6 50
842 66 $ 2 , 0 8 1 43 $
C
c
c e .
O
50 00
7 06 22 80
7 25 80 3 45
90 7 89 1 60
739 91 $1,401 20 S
1 •o a s
153 15
533 30 149 35
6q
V (0 S
e K to
1^
•i. 7!
tji
>! >,
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to
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Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov.
Albort K. Wilson, G r a n d Secre-
Oct. 29 339
340 341 342 343 344 345 346 347 348 5 349 5 350 5 551 5 352 5 353
Albert K. Wilson, G r a n d Secre-
Oct. 29 338
T o p e k a W a t e r Go D . H . Forbes
E l m e r P . Strain
John P. Strlckrott Albert K. Wilson
Southwestern Bell Tel. Co
Ferris M . Hill
R. C. Burge K. R . E b e y
Albert K. WUson E l m e r F . Strain, Spl. Appr. Co. of
24 24 24 24 24 24 29 29 29 29
!
',
F r a n k D . Sperry. Expenses & P e r Diem, Commissioners of Trials S J a m e s A. Gassier, Expenses & P e r Diem, Commissioners of Trials E l m e r F . Strain F . H . Wilson
In Favor oj
328 329 330 331 332 333 334 335 336 337
Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct.
Oct. 24 327
0 Q 1928. Oct. 24 326
V
3
37 35
35 80
u
e
3 O u
1
$
00 00 00 00 00
375 00
150 00
150 00
200 bb 25 00 225 00
225 300 150 100 50
CO
5
'
I
1
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S
WARRANT ACCOUNT—Continued.
S 2 50 9 50 44 80 73
17 05
^
7 75 20 88
•S'C
•a
C c
c c
c
C
s
ft,
i ii
2 N
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15 95 1 35 80 5 50
100 00
o
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$
IIG 00 514 21
C t. (3 « 11 £
o
o
b
o
O
en
20 365 20 306 23 367 2S 368 23 369 28 370 23 371 23 372 2H 373 2S 374 1 375 1 376 1 377 .5 378 B 379 5 380 .5 381 12 382 12 383 14 384
Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Dec. Dec. Dec. Dec. Dec. Dec. Dec. Dec. Dec. Dec.
Dec. Dec. Dec. Dec. Dec. Dec. Dec. Dec. Dec.
14 14 IK 21 24 24 24 24 24
388 389 390 391 392 393 394 395 396
Dec. 14 385 Dec. 14 380 Dec. 14 387
.5 354 h 355 350 ^:^ 357 ^•^ in 358 IH 359 in 360 i n 3(il 20 362 ao 363 20 364
Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. . .
R . C. Burgo K. R . E b e y
F . H . Wilson
F r a n k A. J o n e s , Fund
Albert K. Wilson
Secy.
Charity
T r e a s u r e r , Shawnee C o u n t y Taxes Capper ' E n g r a v i n g Co., G r a n d
Southwestern Bell Tel. Co
K e m l n g t o n - R a n d Business Service
E . C. Burge K. R . E b e y
P . H . Wilson
N . W. Mull
N a t i o n a l Geographic Co., Library,
N . E . Keller Albert K . Wilson
100 00
49 89
JL72 92 1,138 55
3 00
300 150 100 50
300 150 100 50
00 00 00 00
00 00 00 00
'
;
1
10 00
14 85
4 20
4 09 45 89 40 00
12 60
2 75 3 50 1 25
3 03
10 31
17 45
1 25
_
80 75 60 87 00
100 00
6 60 23 50
1 1 12 51
100 00
27 30
26 40 6 80
5 00 75
2 00 1 60
Co
o b ta o •a
3 405 3 406 3 407 3 40S 3 409 3 410 3 411
3 412 15 413 15 414 15 415 15 416
IS 417
15 418 15 419 15 420 15 421 15 422
Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan.
Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan. Jan.
Jan.
Jan. Jan. Jan. .Fan. Jan.
Dec. 20 399 1929. •Tan. 3 400 .Tail. 3 401 Jan. 3 402 Jan. 3 403 Jan. 3 404
1928. Dec. 24 397 Dec. 24 398
a Q
CO
a
R. C. Burge K. R . E b e y Green Scales
F . H . Wilson
E l m e r F . Strain, Spl. Appr. Co. of Administration Albert K. Wilson, G r a n d Secre-
Crane & Company T h o m a s G. F i t c h , Secy., C h a r i t y Fund City Ice Company Ferris M . Hill William F r a n k M a r c h
K a n s a s P o w e r & Liglit Co
Albert K. Wilson, Library, F u r n i -
R e m i n g t o n - R a n d Business Service T o p e k a Transfer & Storage Co
J o h n F . Strickrott J. F o r r e s t Ayres. E x p . and P e r Diem, Commissioners of Trials S E l m e r F . Strain
In Favor of
4.898 7.5
10 00
39 22
3
$
750 300 150 100 50
00 00 00 00 00
300 00
200 00 25 00 450 00
to S
WARRANT ACCOUNI —Concluded.
2 50
I 55 14 00
e
e
J2
S
2 37 8 00 8 25
7 43
SS
a .
e
4
1 89
40 00
an
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•o
$
100 00
1 60
^
4 SO 1 20 70 20
Si" ^
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Jan. 24 438 Jan. 24 439
Jan. 15 428 429 430 Jan. 15 431 Jan. 17 432 Jan. 17 433 Jan. 17 434 Jan. 18 435 Jan. 21 436 Jan. 24 437
423 424 425 Jan. 15 426 Jan. 15 427 8 50
18 00
Amount in excess of appropriation
Amount appropriated by Grand Lodge or other legal authority.... Amount authorized by Gr. Master and Council of Administration...
20 00
15 98 30 3 50 10 00
2 90
450 00 588 06
1,433 05 $ 1,992 90 $
$
1 60
$
674 65 $
S 70,218 23 813,286 94 81,500 00 $ 1,198 40 8 2,174 65 $ 70,778 OS 13,425 00 1.500 00 1,200 00 1,500 00
Elmer F. Strain Hops Willoughby, Secy Thomas G. Fitch, Masonic Home Fund 6 75 Thomas G. Fitch, Masonic Home Fund 41,854 00 Thomas G. Fitch, Tax on Work, Endow. Fund Masonic Home 13,490 00
Sullivan Art Store R. H. Adams
Souttiwestern Bell Tel. Co....:
Elmer F. Strain Heis Monument Co., Library, Crane & Company, Library,
o tf
b
S)
32 97
8
828 33 $
133 99
4^
Co
832 97 $2,171 67 $ 1,466 01 ft o 800 00 3,000 00 1,600 00
80 28 60 57 ,3 50
8 65 1 17
420
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
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Totals ,
1919.. 1920.. .1921.. 1922.. 1923.. 1924.. 1925.. 1926.. 1927.. 1928..
31,312 43 26,246 26 12,861 16 13,499 76 23,211 72 18,956 54 15,810 93 24.514 29 30,371 64 31,684 89
60 39 53 47 71 87 54 06 89 80
2,401,260 24
70,116 78,929 111,098 98,340 249,925 103,745 118,376 105,784 105,431 186,626 2,315,815 02
66,947 83 75,476 71 107,419 55 94,490 09 245,895 76 99,602 91 113,969 59 101,354 10 101,006 50 182,211 96 00 50 60 25 60 50 00 50 50 00
730,110 81
27,902 31,460 34,291 36,137 37,672 39,020 40,087 41,082 41,700 41,872
Total
Total net income in General Fund Total expenditures Total unexpended portion of net income
86,445 22
3,168 67 3,452 3,678 98 3,850 38 4,029 95 4,142 96 4,406 95 4,429 96 4,425 39 4,414 84 728,139 22
23,311 85 37,364 91 61,933 30 46,720 71 47,712 29 44,975 83 34,843 37 48,195 13 48,681 16 47,670 07
72,014 00 88,861 81 106,780 95 84,778 13 250,150 94 102,748 52 103,266 23 95,496 75 99,693 25 92,550 12
$2,315,815.02 $2,315,815.02
$2,222,135.62 93,679.40
233,948 23 2,222,135 62
13,662 56 8,786 87 10,301 99 1,825 17 17,620 65 18,224 69 20,115 34 4,219 12 9,224 09 3,008 05
$2,316,815.02
629,637 36
7,137 60 11,259 53 . 254 16 95 00 147,145 60 527 00 10,220 52 2,000 00 187 50
136,503 82
4,255 18 3,145 61
5,066 17 13,385 10
36 35 25 84 230,183 22
8,703 5,857 1,313 89,661
638 00 0,711 96
to
•i. to
>-,
o
o
S3
422
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
GREAT B E N D , KANSAS, March 3, 1928.
Upon request of Great Bend Lodge No. 15, of Great Bend, Kansas, The M.*. W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the Masonic Hall at Great Bend, Kansas, on March 3, 1928, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new Masonic Temple now under course of construction in the city of Great Bend, Kansas. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: M.-.W.'. W.-. Bro. Bro.
CHARLES N . FOWLER GEORGE C . TURNER PRICE BONDURANT WALTER P . Cox
as as as as
W.". FRANK A. MOSES W.-. CLARENCE F . HEATON Bro. ARTHUR E . JERVIS
Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro. M.-.W.-.
Grand Master. Deputy Grand Master. Grand Senior Warden. Grand Junior Warden.
as Grand Treasurer. .as Grand Secretary. as Grand Chaplain.
HAROLD E . ALLISON H E N R Y A. FRUIT CLARENCE 0. DEIGHTON GEORGE V. FUNK ELRICK C . COLE
as Grand Senior Deacon. as Grand Junior Deacon. as Grand Senior Steward. as Grand Junior Deacon. as Grand Orator.
Bro. XOTHARIE L. WBISENBERGER Bro. W. GRANT JONES
as Grand Marshal. as Grand Tyler.
The Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. The Grand Lodge then repaired to the site of the new Temple, where the corner-stone was laid in the presence of a number of the brethren and citizens, according to t h e Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity. As it was raining during this ceremony the address was not delivered by M.-.W.-.ELRICK C . COLE.
The Grand Lodge then returned to the Masonic Hall, where it was closed in Ample Form. Brother HENRY A. FRUIT, the only surviving charter member of Great Bend Lodge No. 15, filled the station as Grand Junior Deacon. CHARLES N . FOWLER,
ATTEST:
as Grand Master.
CLARENCE F . HEATON,
as Grand Secretary.
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
423
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
POTTER, KANSAS, May 22, 1928.
At the request of Kickapoo Lodge No. 4, A. F . & A. M. of Potter, Kansas, The M.'.W.".Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas,was convened in Special Communication on the 22nd day of May, 1928, in the city of Potter, Kansas, for the purpose of dedicating the Hall in the new Masonic Temple. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: M.'.W.-.FERRIS M . HILL W.". W. ROGER MARTIN W.-. EARL C . YOAKUM Bro. HENRY C . KING
Grand Master. as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden.
Bro. EARNEST B . NIEMAN Bro. JOSEPH M . SURRITTB
as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary.
W.\ Bro. Bro. W.'.
as Grand as Grand as Grand as Grand
WILLIAM HUNDLEY GEORGE A. PENNINGTON LEONARD C . CLINB SAMUEL A. ELLERMAN
W.-. THOMAS F . HALL
Senior Junior Senior Junior
Deacon. Deacon. Steward. Steward.
as Grand Tyler.
The M.-.W.'^Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry and the Hall was then dedicated in accordance with the Ancient Ceremonies. Brother FRED VOILAND of Topeka, Kansas, delivered an impressive address on Masonry and Citizenship to the members of Kickapoo Lodge and other lodges t h a t were present, after which the Grand Lodge was closed in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. FERRIS M . HILL,
ATTEST:
Grand Master.
JOSEPH M . SURRITTE,
as Grand Secretary.
424
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
H O X I E , KANSAS, June 27, 1928.
Upon request of Hoxie Lodge No. 348, of Hoxie, Kansas, The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the lodge room at Hoxie, Kansas, on the 27th day of June, A. D. 1928, A. L. 5928, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of t h e Christian Church at Hoxie, Kansas. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: M.-, W.-. F E R E I S . M . H I L L
Grand Master.
W.-. HABLAND C. HUMPHREY W.'. RAYMOND W. MAHANNA Bro. WALTER C P B T E R S O N
as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden.
Bro. FLOYD C . ROADHOUSE W.-. F R E D M . BURK
as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary.
Bro. Bro. Bro. W.'. W.-.
as as as as as
O. G. BROWN ORVILB E . CLARK CHARLES H . JOHNSON ALBERT J. STBINSHOUER AUBERT J. MowRY
Grand Grand Grand Grand Grand
Chaplain. Senior Deacon. Junior Deacon. Senior Steward. Junior Steward.
W.-. R. NELSON LONG
as Grand Marshal.
W.-. IRA L . VINSON
as Grand Tyler.
The Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry, and marched to the site of the new Christian Church where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ceremonies of our Ancient Craft; in the presence of the brethren and citizens. The address was delivered by Brother FRANK M . MCDONALD of Stockton, Kansas. The Grand Lodge then returned to the lodge room and was closed in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. FERRIS M . HILL,
ATTEST:
Grand Master.
F R E D M . BUKR,
as Grand Secretary.
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
425
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
E L DORADO, KANSAS, September 17, 1928.
Upon request of Patmos Lodge No. 97, of El Dorado, Kansas, The M.".W.".Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the Hall of Patmos Lodge No. 97 at El Dorado, Kansas, on September 17, 1928, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the First Christian Church now under construction in the City of El Dorado, Kansas. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: M.\W.'. FERRIS M . H I L L
Grand Master.
W.-. VoLNEY P . MooNEY
as Deputy Grand Master.
W.'. KARL M . GBDDES W.-. HECTOR SINCLAIR W.'. LOUIS GUINN
as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden. as Grand Treasurer.
W.'. WiLBBR E. RoBBiNS
as Grand Secretary.
Bro. and Rev. CHARLES T . ILSLEY W.\ FRANK A. SHYRER W.'. JAMES H . SANDIPER
W.". DuANE FiSK W.\ W.-. Bro. and W.-. R.-. W.'. W.-.
EDGAR L. GOLDEN HOMER H . HALL Rev. FRED W . CONDIT HOMER T . HARDEN WILLIAM H . ANDERSON WALTER E . BERTRAM.
as Grand Chaplain. as Grand Senior Deacon. as Grand Junior Deacon.
as Grand Senior Steward. as Grand Junior Steward. as Grand Marshal. as Grand Orator. Grand Pursuivant. as Bearer of the Great Lights. as Grand Tyler.
The M.'.W.'.Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. The M.".W.\Grand Lodge then formed in Grand Procession, led by the El Dorado Municipal Band with about two hundred Masons in line, and marched to the site of the First Christian Church where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity, followed by a wonderful address by Brother and Reverend FRED W . CONDIT, Pastor of the First Christian Church of El Dorado, Kansas, which was very impressive and instructive to the great many Masons as well as to the great concourse of Citizens assembled. Very appropriate and impressive music was furnished by the Band and the male quartet of the First Christian Church. The M.'.W.'.Grand Lodge then returned to the Hall of Patrnos Lodge No. 97, where it was closed in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. F E R R I S M . HILL,
ATTEST:
Grand Master.
WILBER E . ROBBINS,
as Grand Secretary,
426
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION. •
HEEINGTON, KANSAS, September 18, 1928.
The M.\ W.-. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the Masonic Hall at Herington, Kansas, on the 18th day of September, A. D. 1928, A. L. 5928, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the First Methodist Church. The several stations and places were filled by the following brethren: M.'.W.-. W.-. Bro. Bro. W.-.
FERRIS M . HILL JAMES TRIPP CHARLES S . FORBES JOHN A. CONREY RAY G . TRIPP
W.-. F R E D M . THOMPSON
Bro. H. LAMBERT H I B B S Bro. THORNTON D . SCOTT
as as as as
Grand Master. Deputy Grand Master. Grand Senior Warden. Grand Junior Warden. Grand Treasurer.
as Grand Secretary.
;.as Grand Senior Deacon. as Grand Junior Deacon.
W.-. BYRON W . OLIVER
as Grand Marshal.
W.-. Bro. Bro. W.-. W.-.
as Grand Sword Bearer. as Grand Senior Steward. as Grand Junior Steward. as Bearer of Great Lights. as Bearer of Book of Constitution.
OREN H . PATTISON HARVEY J . B U R K E T T THOMAS F . BARBER JACOB P. SCOTT WILLIAM R . WARING
W.'. VICTOR C . KINGSBURY Bro. EUGENE S . SCHUYLER
as Principal Architect. as Grand Tyler.
The M.'.W.'.Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. The Grand Lodge then formed in Grand procession and repaired to the site of the First Methodist Church, where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity, followed by an impressive address by M.'.W.'. FERRIS M . HILL, Grand Master. The Grand Lodge then returned to the Masonic Hall, where it was closed in Ample Form. FERRIS M . HILL,
ATTEST:
Grand Master.
F R E D M . THOMPSON,
as Grand Secretary.
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
427
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
GREAT B E N D , KANSAS, September 19, 1928.
At the request of Great Bend Lodge No. 15, A. F. & A. M. of Great Bend, Kansas, The M.'.W.'.Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication on the 19th day of September, 1928, in the city of Great Bend, Kansas, for the purpose of dedicating the Hall in the new Masonic Temple. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: M.'. W.-. CHARLES N . FOWLER
as Grand Master.
W.-. R. CoE RUSSELL Bro. PRICE BONDURANT Bro. WILLIAM C . COOK
as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden.
W.-. FRANK A. MOSES W.-. CLARENCE F . HEATON Bro. ARTHUR E . JERVIS
as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary. as Grand Chaplain.
Bro. Bro. Bro. Bro.
as Grand ^s Grand as Grand as Grand
HAROLD E . ALLISON LEONARD B . WILCOX JOSEPH B . WOODBURN CHARLES L . SLENTZ
Senior Junior Senior Junior
Deacon. Deacon. Steward. Steward.
Bro. THADDEUS C . CORK
as Grand Architect.
W.-. WILLIAM L . BOWERSOX W.'. HERMAN C . COLEGROVE W.-. WILLIAM O . VOLLMER
as Bearer of the Great Lights. as Grand Taper Bearer. as Grand Taper Bearer.
W.-. W.-. W.\ W.'.
as Bearer as Bearer as Bearer as Bearer
CLARENCE R . ALDRICH JOSEPH E . M C M U L L B N CHARLES S . DORFSHAFFER REUBEN A. CHARLES
M . - . W . - . ELRICK C . COLE
Bro. W. GRANT JONES
of of of of
the Lodge. the Lodge. the Lodge. the Lodge.
as Grand Orator.
as Grand Tyler.
The M.-.W.".Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on t h e first degree of Masonry and the hall was then dedicated in accordance with the Ancient Ceremonies. M.\W.'.ELRICK C . COLE delivered an interesting address and after a few remarks by M.-.W.-. CHARLES N . FOWLER the Grand Lodge was closed in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. CHARLES. N . FOWLER,
ATTEST:
as Grand Master.
CLARENCE F . HEATON,
as Grand Secretary.
428
PBOCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
KINSLEY, KANSAS, October 19, 1928.
At the request of Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 179, of Kinsley, Kansas, The M.'.W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication in the lodge room at Kinsley, Kansas, on the 19th day of October, A. D. 1928, A. L. 5928, for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the Edwards County Court House. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: M.-.W.-. W.-. W.-. W.-.
ELRICK C . COLE EUGENE H . RENFRO JOHN G . DEMAIN DANIEL WEYRICH
Bro. OTTO A. M C K I L L I P W.-. JOHN E . STOWELL Bro. and Rev. FRED R . BUSH'
as Grand Master. as Deputy Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden. as Grand Junior Warden. as Grand Treasurer. as Grand Secretary. as Grand Chaplain.
W.'. JOSEPH M . WORK W.-. GEORGE D . HOFFMAN
as Grand Senior Deacon. as Grand Junior Deacon.
Bro. ROBERT STUTZMAN Bro. HENRY P. HERTZ
as Grand Marshal. as Principal Architect.
Bro. DELMAR L . PICKARD Bro. DONALD K . KERR
as Grand Senior Steward. as Grand Junior Steward.
W.-. SOLOMON HOGE
as Grand Tyler.
The Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. The Grand Lodge then marched to the site of the new Court House where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity. A brief and very interesting address was given by M.%W.'. Brother ELRICK C . COLE, after which the Grand Lodge returned to the lodge room and was closed in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. ELRICK C . COLE,
ATTEST:
as Grand Master.
Joroj E. STOWELL,
08 Grand Secretary.
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
429
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
GARDEN CITY, KANSAS, November 27, 1928. .
At the request of Tyrian Lodge No. 246, of Garden City, Kansas, The M.'.W.'.Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication on November 27, 1928, in the lodge room at Garden City for the purpose of laying the corner-stone of the new Court House. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: M.-.W.\ FERRIS M . HILL W.-. LEWIS M . TRISSEL
Grand Master. as Grand Senior Warden.
Bro. W.'. Bro. Bro.
CARL HENRY ENGLUND CHESTER A. CARTER J. RALPH BOSWORTH HUBERT O . JUDD
as as as as
Grand Grand Grand Grand
Junior Warden. Treasurer. Secretary. Chaplain.
W.'. W.\ W.". Bro. Bro.
GUY B . NORRIS GUST WARLEN FAY A . WAGNER RAY HOWARD HENRY STANLEY
as Grand as Grand as Grand as Grand as Grand
Senior Deacon. Junior Deacon. Marshal. Senior Steward. Junior Steward.
W.'. W.-. Bro. Bro.
FRANCIS L . PIERCE HARRY E . WALTER JOHN F . WALTERS SAMUEL OXLEY
as as as as
Pursuivant. Orator. of the Constitution. Tyler.
Grand Grand Bearer Grand
The Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. The Grand Lodge then marched to the site of the new Court House, where the corner-stone was laid according to the Ancient Ceremonies of the Fraternity. After the laying of the corner-stone the Grand Lodge returned to the lodge room and was closed in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. FERRIS M . HILL,
ATTEST:
Grand Master.
3. RALPH BOSWORTH,
as Grand Secretary.
430
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION.
MADISON, KANSAS, December 12, 1928.
At the request of Madison Lodge No. 196, of Madison, Kansas, The M.'.W.'. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas was convened in Special Communication on the 12th day of December, 1928, in the city of Madison, at 3 p. M., for the purpose of dedicating the new Masonic Hall in that city. The several stations were filled by the following brethren: M.-. W.-. F E R R I S M . HILL
W.-. W.'. W.'. Bro.
CLAUDE M . BOLER WESLEY H. HAMER JAMES E . PRICHARD EvAR M. JOHNSON
Grand Master.
as as as as
Deputy Grand Master. Grand Senior Warden. Grand Junior Warden. Grand Treasurer.
Bro. CHARLES W . CLEAVER W.-. THOMAS B SWAIN
as Grand Secretary. as Grand Chaplain.
Bro. LEWIS DAVIS Bro. PAUL JACKSON
as Grand Senior Deacon. as Grand Junior Deacon.
W.-. WESLEY EUGENE TAYLOR W.-. JOSEPH IMTHURN
..as Grand Marshal. as Grand Architect.
Bro. ORVILLE HENDERSON Bro. SAMUEL J. PEES
as Grand Senior Steward. as Grand Junior Steward.
W.\ S. CLYDE STEWART
as Grand Tyler.
The M.'.W.-.Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry, and the Hall dedicated in accordance with the Ancient Ceremonies. The history of Madison Lodge was read by W.-. Brother THOMAS B . SWAIN. Many brethren from nearby lodges were in attendance. The Grand Lodge was then closed in Ample Form on the first degree of Masonry. FERRIS M . HILL,
Grand Master. ATTEST: CHARLES W . CLEAVER,
as Grand Secretary.
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
431
REPORT OF SECRETARY OP MASONIC HOME ROABD.
M.-. W.-. THOMAS G. FITCH submitted the following report, which, on his motion, was received and ordered printed in the Proceedings: To The M.: W.-.Grand I have the honor made to the Board of annual meeting in the 15, 1929:
Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: to present herewith excerpts from my report Directors of the Kansas Masonic Home at its city of Wichita, Kansas, on Tuesday, January
To The Board of Directors of the Kansas Masonic Home: Within the year ended December 31, 1928, I received in cash items $245,931.52 from the following sources: Endowment Donations $ 24,693 03 Grand Lodge Relief Refund 225 00 Loans and Bonds Paid 114,200 00 O. E. S. Christmas Fund $, 1,294 46 O. E. S. Fruit Fund 892 58 2,187 04 O. E. S. Hepler Music Fund Special Music Fund Interest Morse Land Account Nelson Land Account Lobdell-Stuart Library Fund Interest Guardianship Funds Isolation Cottage Building Fund
106 25 799 2,398 33 9,552 $ 9,000 00 5,000 00
Miscellaneoiis Receipts Grand Lodge Per Capita Eastern Star Per Capita Interest Loans Interest Bank Balance
50 00 37 05 63 78
14,000 00 388 92
Regular Income. '.$ 41,700 50 6,420 25 $ 25,747 77 453 68 29,201 45 77,322'20
Total
$ 245,931 52
All collections have been remitted to the Treasurer of the Home as shown by carbon copies of letters of transmittal herewith and acknowledged by receipts from him. For your information and in order that permanent record may be made. Endowment Donation Account is composed of the following:
432
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
From Organizations. Raising Fees for 1928 Order Eastern Star Donations Grand Commandery K. T. Christmas 1927 M.'.W.-. Grand Lodge Penalty Assessed Mt. Olivet Commandery No. 12, Easter Collection A. K. Wilson, Gr. Secy., Certifying Life Memberships
February. $
From Estates by Bequest. Estate Mary Failes, Mt. Hope, Kansas
14,885 1,930 624 150 41 28
00 07 40 00 47 25
124 39
From Members and Friends. Unknown Donor $ Marcus W. Frazier, for family of T. D. Archer of Western Star Lodge No. 138, Oklahoma W. J. Lemon, Florida Courtesy Donation for receiving Degrees in Wichita Lodge No. 99
50 00 30 00 5 00
From Members and Former Members of the Home. Elizabeth Linehart $ 25 00 Ella Barnett 365 32 Sylvia Stewart 75 Ada Comer 731 63 W. A. Gilson 676 64 M. E. McFarland 365 49 John E. Schmidt 8 81 John O. Angle 85 Rowanna Oliphant 10 00 C. M. Aley 2 05 Q. E. Russell 4 30 Thos. H. Moore 5 16 Nancy J. Burns 8 05 W. K. Bradley 241 95 Sanford C. Jones 1,963 61 S. E. Carpenter 2 65 J. T. Caldwell 811 17 Amanda M. Bateman 412 39 Rebecca J. Eaton, Acct 588 00 Nancy E. Wartick, Acct 600 00 Total January 1, 1928, the Endowment Fund was
$
24,693 03 364,597 30
Making a total in the Endowment Fund on Jan. 1, 1929....$ 389,290 33
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
433
Within the year warrants were drawn to total $256,014.33, charged to the following accounts: Investments made $ 152,100 00 Accrued interest and premiums on same....$ 4,878 54 Interest Allowance, Hepler Music Fund 56 50 Interest Allowance, Special Music Fund 25 00 Interest Allowance, C. M. Beck Acct 11 33 4,971 37 Grand Lodge Relief O. E. S. Christmas Fund, 1928 0 . E. S. Fruit Fund, 1928 Beck Land Account Morse Land Account McAlister Land Account Barns-Dodge Land Account Webb Estate Hepler Music Fund, music lessons Maintenance Funerals and Cemetery Insurance
$
5,123 75
1,294 46 892 58
.2,187 04 22 232 600 119 1 60
$ 60,394 83 2,448 98 5 71
62,849 52
Furniture and Fixtures Real Estate & Improvements Guardian Funds Miscellaneous Total
54 12 00 41 50 90
492 12,787 14,401 65
80 10 28 00
$ 256,014 33
Included in the item of Maintenance will be found: General Expenses. Secretary's Office $ 588 57 Director's Expense 280 42 Medical Services, 1928 950 00 Employees Bonus, 1928 60 00 Bonds, Secy. & Treas 87 50 Rent, Safe Deposit Box 35 00 $ 2,001 49 Repairs and Replacements. Interior Repair, Decorating...$ 1,269 00 Knives, Forks and Spoons .... 102 73 Curtains I l l 78 Rugs 175 01 $ 1,658 52
$
3,660 01
434
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Detailed account of Disbursements by Superintendent charged to Maintenance Account: Plumbing $ 236 25 Furniture and Fixtures 40 00 Repairs 1,434 76 Salaries and Wages 11,368 67 Hospital, Physician and Drugs 4,850 60 Automobile 1,169 22 Telephone and Telegrams 112 60 Light 1,967 25 Water 1,159 56 Fuel 4,277 48 Laundry and Soap 2,318 95 Groceries 13,756 08 Meat and Lard 4,042 97 Barbering and Street Car Fare 986 75 Dry Goods, Clothing and Shoes 4,553 61 Table and Bed Supplies 221 48 House Supplies 1,322 61 School and Office Supplies 951 31 Power 787 88 Garden and Lawn 476 65 Miscellaneous 700 14 Total General Expense Items heretofore shown Repair and Replacement Items heretofore shown
$ 56,734 82 2,001 49 1,658 52
Making total charged to Maintenance Account
$ 60,394 83
You will observe the Maintenance expenses for the year to have been $60,394.83 as against $63,252.42 in the year 1927. However, in that year the Repair and Replacement Items amounted to $5,883.09 as against $1,658.52 in 1928. As a result the actual expenditures for Maintenance at the Home were $56,734.82 as against $54,851.43 in 1927. Trial Balance of Home Accounts follows: Debit Balances. Treasury Cash Loans and Bonds Morse Land Account Real Estate and Improvements Webb Estate Account Barns-Dodge Land Account Beck Land Accoiint Maintenance Funerals and Cemetery Furniture and Fixtures Insurance Grand Lodge Relief McAliBter Land Account Miscellaneous Expense
$
5,782 418,050 620 514,503 1 119 124 768,109 13,751 41,170 9,416 4,898 3,899 643
72 00 31 72 50 41 14 56 11 90 46 75 38 86
$1,781,071 82
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
Credit Balances. Guardian Funds Leighty Land Account Interest O. E. S. Per Capita Endowment Fund.... Knights Templar Building Fund Nelson Land Account Hepler Music Fund Grand Lodge Per Capita Isolation Cottage Building Fund Grand Lodge Donations, Original O. E. S. Building Fund, Donations A. F. & A. M. Building Fund, Donations O. E. S. Furnishing Fund, Donations Morris Educational Fund Lobdell-Stuart Library Fund Payne Land Account Miscellaneous Receipts Music Fund, Special
435
$
11,852 840 178,474 92,232 389,290 50 2,473 1,250 654,926 14,000 59,666 35,000 329,651 6,027 100 813 125 3,770 525
35 64 39 95 33 00 47 60 80 00 41 00 01 56 00 59 84 88 00
$1,781,071 82 Above items represent total debit and credit in each Fund since establishment of the Home. Summary of accounts for the year follows: January 1, 1928 Balance in Treasury $ 15,865 53 December 31, 1928 Receipts for year Total
245,931 52 $ 261,797 05
December 31, 1928 Paid by Warrants in 1928 $ 256,014 33 December 31, 1928 Balance in Treasury 5,782 72 Total $ 261,797 05 The total of $418,050.00 is invested in high grade mortgages and bonds. In the year we collected $29,201.45 in interest on loans which included a premium of $3,023.00 on the sale of $82,000.00 Fourth Liberty 4J^ U. S. Bonds callable in 1933. This latter Item increased our interest earnings somewhat, but was counter-balanced by premiums and accrued interest on bonds purchased heretofore shown to have been $4,971.37. We realized 5 66/100% on our investments in 1928. Statement of the loan account follows: Loans on hand, January 1, 1928 $ 380,150 00 Loans paid in 1928 114,200 00 Investments made in 1928
$ 265,950 00 152,100 00
Making total loans on hand, January 1, 1929
$ 418,050 00
436
PROCEEDINGS
Rate. ZVs 4 A% 41^ 4^ 5 5J^ 6 6}^ 7
OF THE
February.
The rates of interest in detail upon our investments follows: Bonds. Total. Mortgages. % 300 00 $ 300 00 5,000 00 5,000 00 10,500 00 10,500 00 35,500 00 35,500 00 10,000 00 10,000 00 44,000 00 44,000 00 25,000 00 $ 33,650 00 8,650 00 157,600 00 245,800 00 88,200 00 25,000 00 6,100 00 31,100 00 1,500 00 2,200 00 700 00 $ 314,400 00
$ 103,650 00
$ 418,050 00
FINANCIAL STATEMENT.
January 1, 1929. Cash on hand Loans Morse Land Account Beck Land Account Barns-Dodge Land Account McAlister Land Account Guardianship Funds Total Liabilities. Endowment Fund Mary A. Hepler Music Fund Special Music Fund Morris Educational Fund Lobdell-Stuart Library Fund Guardian Funds Balance Total
'.
$
1921 1922 1923 1924
72 00 31 14 41 38 24
$ 432,462 20 $ 389,290 1,250 525 100 813 15,720 24,762
33 60 00 00 59 54 14
$ 432,462 20
Balance to credit of General Fund January 1, 1928 was....$ Balance to credit of General Fund January 1, 1929 was.... Showing gain of
5,782 418,050 620 124 119 3,899 3,868
$
16,720 96 24,762 14 8,041 18
Annual cost of Maintenance at the Home since 1921 follows: $ 39,782 65 1925 $ 52,069 03 42,770 27 1926... 56,205 31 46,148 49 1927 63,252 42 53,320 93 1928 60,394 83
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
437
By months for years ended November 30,1927 and 1928, warrants charged to Maintenance Account were as follows: 1927. 1928. $ 4,710 C2 December $ 4,847 16 January 4,088 93 4 95s 76 February 4,521 59 6,053 53 March 4,549 17 5,198 83 April 4,912 13 4,728 13 May 4,439 07 5,540 18 June 4,782 36 4,680 66 July 3,736 76 3,940 53 August 4,337 95 4,083 32 September 4,901 93 4,883 49 October 4,663 63 4,583 22 November.5,070 75 4,373 85 General Expenses Repairs and Replacements Total
$54,851 43 2,517 90 5,883 09
$56,734 82 2,001 49 1,658 52
$63,252 42
$60,394 83
Superintendent's report shows average membership of the Home Family since 1920 as follows: 192 1926 161 1920 113M- , 1923 1921 128 1924 174 1927 197 1922 154 1925 186 1928 214 At present of the 285 names on the roster of the Home 221 are actually in the Home. Per Capita cost based on above averages shows as follows: 1921....$310 80- 1923 $286 64 1925 $279 94 1927 $321 08 1922.... 277 78 1924 306 44 1926 293 25 1928 282 22 This includes all expense items of the Home and of Administration, in fact all items save those charged to Real Estate, Furniture and Fixtures and Funerals and Cemetery. You will observe the per capita cost was reduced from $321.08 in 1927 to $282.22 in 1928. As nearly as it may be computed the average membership in 1928 was found to have been 214 as against 197 in 1927. Also the total cost of Maintenance, etc., was reduced from $63,252.42 in 1927 to $60,390.83 in 1928. Our income for the year 1929 may be estimated as follows: Grand Lodge Per Capita $ 42,500 Order Eastern Star Per Capita 6,500 Interest on Loans 26,000 Interest on Bank Balance 500 Total
00 00 00 00
$ 75,500 00
438
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Expenditures on behalf of The M.'.W.". Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas for the year ended November 30, 1928 were $5,123.75. As against this there was a refund to this fund of $225.00 collected from an insurance policy on the life of Brother E B E N P. CROCKER, deceased, thus reducing the actual out-lay to $4,898.75. A voucher for this amount was not received in my office until after the first of January, 1929, and in consequence it does not appear as having been paid in the year 1928. We have insurance in force as follows: FIRE.
On Main Buildings On Chapel On Barn and contents
$ 27,500 00 5,000 00 7,000 00
Total
$ 39,500 00
Furniture, Main Buildings Furniture, Isolation Cottage Fixtures in Laundry
$
6,000 00 1,000 00 1,000 00
Total Boiler and Accident Tornado on Buildings, a gross total of
$
8,000 00 15,000 00 $ 335,000 00
Fraternally submitted, THOMAS G . FITCH,
Secretary.
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
439
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON REPORTS OF GRAND OFFICERS.
M.-.W.-.JOHN W. NEILSON, chairman, presented the following report, which, on his motion, was adopted: To The M.:W.-.Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: Your Committee on Reports of Grand Officers has carefully examined the reports of the Grand Master, Grand Treasurer and Grand Secretary, and beg leave to submit the following report: In retrospect our Grand Master views the years intervening between his apprenticeship and this the crowning year of his Masonic life, during which he has labored earnestly and faithfully to impress upon the members of the Craft their duties to each other, to their country and to their GOD. The lexicographer defines Masonry literally as a foundation or a wall. Under skillful hands the building may tower in grandeur to the skies, or by the use of a defective stone may crumble into dust. Figuratively, Masonry also builds but not with bricks nor beams but we shall put the breath of life into our cherished dreams by imbuing men to so live that their lives may prove a tower of strength and beauty to those with whom they come in contact. The Grand Master has ably met the various problems which confronted him during his year of service and has demonstrated his determination to enforce the laws and preserve the fundamentals of Freemasonry. That the acts of the Grand Master, as set forth in his address, which need no further reference may be disposed of, we recommend the approval of the following subjects: Installation of Grand Officers. Grand Orator. Grand Representatives near other Grand Lodges. Special Dispensations. Corner-stones. Dedications. Invitations and Visits. Foreign Relations. Requests for Sponsorship Denied. Retirement of R.-.W.-. ALBERT K . WILSON, Grand Secretary. Appointment and Installation of M.\ W.-. ELMEK F . STRAIN,
Grand Secretary. District Deputies. District Meetings. Conferring Degrees in Less than Lawful Time.
440
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
Subjects requiring committee consideration are referred as follows: To the Committee on Chartered Lodges and Lodges Under Dispensation: *
Edict of Revocation of Charter Shawnee Lodge No. 54. Petitions for Letters of Dispensation. Consolidation of Lodges. White Water Lodge U. D.
To the Committee on Finance and Property: Relief, (a) Florida, (6) Puerto Rico, (c) Ottawa Lodge No. 18. Donations. To the Committee on Jurisprudence: Trial Commissioners and Masonic Trials. Failure to Report Action on Amendment to Constitution. Disregard of Official Communications. Removal of Lodges. Ruling. Questions. Bonding Lodge Funds. Discipline, (a) Fostoria Lodge No. 392, (6) Landmark Lodge No. 218, (c) Kiowa Lodge No. 293, (d) Kingsdown Lodge No. 447, (e) Hiram Lodge No. 68, (/.) Fidelity Lodge No. 106. We consider that part of the Grand Master's address regarding the Masonic Home so important that we recommend it be referred to a Special Committee. The Grand Treasurer, R.-. W.-. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH, pre-
sents his nineteenth report of the financial condition of our Grand Lodge, and we recommend that it be referred to the Committee on Finance and Property. The following subjects in the Final Report of the Grand Secretary, ALBERT K . WILSON, need no reference to any special committee, and we recommend their approval: Proceedings 1928. Historical Registry and Abstract. Restoration of Charters. Charters Not Yet Sent In. Copy of Charter of Neosho Lodge No. 27, Le Roy.
1928-29.
GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS.
441
Charter of Americus Lodge No. 109. Masonic Districts. Changes in District Deputy Grand Masters. Grand Representatives near other Grand Lodges. Grand Representatives near our Grand Lodge. Indexing Proceedings. Museum Cases. Historical Filing Cases. Conferring Degrees in Less than the Lawful Time. List of Regular Lodges. Report of Illegal Suspensions. Bonding Lodge Treasurers, Secretaries, and Depositories. Grand Secretary's Certificates. Official Circulars. Specific reference of othei subjects are recommended as follows: To the Committee on Chartered Lodges and Lodges Under Dispensation: White Water Lodge, at White Water. Late Shawnee Lodge No. 54. To the Committee on Finance and Property: Donation to the Masonic Home. Special Assessment for the Masonic Home. Schedule " B " . Schedule " C " . Cash Account. To the Committee on Jurisprudence: Transcript of Trial. Amendments to Constitution. To the Special Committee: Gift to the Grand Lodge of Portraits by Brother HOWARD VANDBRSLICB.
Librarian's Report. History of Lodges. RETIRBMENT OF GRAND SECRETARY..
In accordance with his request and conforming to the action of Grand Lodge last year, R.-. W.". ALBERT K . WILSON relinquished the office of Grand Secretary, and on October 1,1928, wrote finis at the end of his thirty-fifth report to this Grand Body, but our beloved Grand Secretary Emeritus has not laid down his pen, nor ceased from his labor, for he is now engaged in a work to be laid up among the records in the archives of this Grand Lodge,—a history which will stand as a fitting memorial of his life's work for Kansas Masonry.
442
PBOCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
The committee recommends the approval of the following subjects in the report of M.-. W.v ELMER F . STRAIN, Grand Secretary: Grand Representatives near other Grand Lodges. Grand Representatives near our Grand Lodge. Consolidation of Ottawa Lodge No. 18, and Melody Lodge No. 400, of Ottawa. Reduced Railroad Fare. Grand Secretary's Certificates. Specific reference of other subjects is recommended as follows: To the Committee on Chartered Lodges and Lodges U. D.: Sale of Property of Late Shawnee Lodge No. 54. Paragraphs I and II under heading "Annual Reports". Grand Lodge Dues. Illegal Election. No Date of Election Given. No Date for Holding Stated Communications. Lodges Denied Representation. Concerning our Membership. To the Committee on Jurisprudence: Members of Late Shawnee Lodge No. 54 Subject to Suspension. That part of the Grand Secretary's report relative to the confusion that has arisen concerning lodge dues and Grand Lodge tax. To the Committee on Finance and Property: Estimated Revenue and Expenses for the Ensuing Year. Schedule " A " . Schedule " B " . Cash Account. • The excellent system of records and accounts established by our former Grand Secretary, R.\ W.'. ALBERT K . WILSON, have been of inestimable benefit to our present Grand Secretary, M.'. W.'. ELMER F. STRAIN, and to the lodges of this Jurisdiction, as the work in the office has gone forward without the least impairment or delay, and the high standard of excellence and expedition which has always characterized this most important work, has been maintained. Fraternally submitted, JOHN W . NEILSON, HERBERT R . H U L L ,
LUCIAN L . CONSTANT, GEORGE W . SUGGS,
Committee.
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
44'3
APPOINTMENT OP SPECIAL COMMITTEE.
In accordance with the recommendation of the Committee on Reports of Grand Officers, the Grand Master announced the following Special Committee: M.-. W.-. CHARLES A. LOUCKS, W.-. ROBERT H . MONTGOMERY, and W.-. HARVEY 0. DAVIS. REPORT OF GRAND SECRETARY EMERITUS CONCERNING THE HISTORY OF MASONRY IN THIS JURISDICTION.
R.-. W.-. ALBERT K . WILSON, Grand Secretary. Emeritus, submitted the following report, which, on motion of R.-.W.-. GEORGE F . BEEZLEY, was referred to the Council of Administration with full authority to act: To The M:. W.-.Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: At the last Annual Communication your Grand Secretary, following his election, requested permission to retire from further service in that capacity at such time as he might elect. This request was coupled with the suggestion that he devote the remainder of his allotted days to the compilation of a history of Masonry in Kansas. The Grand Lodge granted his request and authorized him to prepare a history in accordance with the suggestions outlined by him one year ago. An opportune time for retirement from the office of Grand Secretary did not present itself until October 1st, at which time he retired from office. With other duties to be performed, including the preparation of the Report on Correspondence, there was but little time at his disposal for work on the preparation of a history. The plan, however, was outlined in the report submitted to Grand Lodge one year ago and the work accomplished has been along these lines. In submitting this report which forms a basis for future reports on this subject, it is first necessary to again call attention to the history of the early lodges, appearing in the 1906 Semi-Centennial Proceedings of our Grand Lodge. The first topic as outlined in the plan adopted one year ago, was under the head of "Introduction", which contemplates a vast amount of information, not only having reference to the establishment of Masonry in this jurisdiction but likewise a concise resume of historical data covering the stormy period prior to the admission of Kansas as a state. It should be borne in mind that Masonry and Kansas are coexistent, and in dealing with the early history of the Craft in this jurisdiction one must of necessity couple with it the more important
444
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
incidents which led to the setting aside of certain territory known as Kansas. In taking up this work along these lines it is more a labor of research than that of history. To accomplish this it will be necessary to devote all the time possible in not only reviewing the history of our country covering the territory lying west of the Mississippi River, but to locate and interview the few very old members and citizens in the eastern part of our state who are left. In this work the writer has discovered that most of the pioneers in Masonry were likewise pioneers and leading citizens in that section of the country which was afterwards designated as Kansas. The preparation of a history, therefore, must of necessity have coupled with it a sketch not only of the brother's Masonic career, but likewise the more important activities of his life as a citizen and pioneer. Thus far a large amount of valuable information has been secured, some by means of interviews and in other instances written and printed documents of such a nature that they can be relied upon as authentic and reflecting absolute conditions and incidents as they occurred. Up to the time of writing this report sufficient information has been secured from which a very complete history of the early experiences of our brethren and their relations to the establishment of the first lodges can be intelligently compiled. There still is a vast amount of research work to be accomplished as the time for sfiniirinCT reliable information is very limited and particularly when we take into consideration t h a t the most authentic and reliable information must be secured from the few who are now left to tell the story. At this time it is impossible to given any estimate as to when sufficient history will be assembled to justify its publication in book form. The important work to be accomplished at this time is the gathering of this information while there still remain a few of the old brethren and citizens from whom it can be obtained, and which will not be the case a little later, for they are swiftly passing. It is the purpose of your Historian, so long as he is permitted to do so, to submit a brief report of the work accomplished each year, but omitting therefrom any portion of the history as it would only encumber our Proceedings and would be so incomplete as to be of little interest to the Craft. The foregoing report is herewith submitted in the hope that the brethren wherever possible will co-operate with the writer in order that the history may be made as complete as possible, and to this end all lodges which have not already done so are earnestly requested to see to it that a complete history of their lodge is prepared. Whether the one assigned to this work will be permitted to carry it on, or whether of necessity it will fall into the hands of another, it must be borne in mind that it is a Herculean task, one which will not only tax the mental but the physical endurance of the compiler, and the further one delves into the possibilities the greater the scope.
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
445
To one who has had no experience in the compilation of a history or who is not intimately interested in such work it is little wonder that they cannot grasp the unlimited amount of research and labor involved in such an undertaking, for with the familiarity of your Historian with this work even he did not fully comprehend its magnitude. In order to accomplish this task it will require the hearty cooperation of this Grand Lodge and there must be no stinting of necessary funds for the employment of such assistance as may be necessary to carry forward this work, not alone because of the immense amount of work to do in the gathering and assembling of data, but also, as stated heretofore, because of the passing of many of those from whom much information must be secured. Fraternally submitted, ALBERT K . WILSON,
Grand Secretary Emeritus and Historian. REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON NECROLOGY.
W.-. HARRY E . PEACH, chairman, submitted the following report, and in adopting same the Grand Lodge stood with bowed heads in memory of the departed brethren, following which the Grand Chaplain, Rev. FRED E . BROOKS, offered prayer: To The M:. W:. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: In conformity with a beautiful custom long established in this Most Worshipful Grand Lodge at each Annual Communication, we pause in the transactions of the business which engross the attention of the brethren, and for a season give heed to the passing of time, and the immutable eventualities of humanity, to reflect upon the lives and characters of those of our brethren who have passed from mortality to immortality, who have answered to the roll call in that Higher Lodge above, and are now enjoying the splendors of " T h e City Four Square", the abiding place of a more perfect existence vouchsafed to those who by faith have taken the Great Light of Masonry as the light of their lives, the lamp to their feet, the chart which has guided them over the rough and rugged path to where the green pastures and the still waters are, to the Life Eternal. Of which the great poet and churchman whose soul expanded to heights almost divine when he sang: "Lead kindly light, amid the encircling gloom Lead Thou me on. The night is dark and I am far from home Lead Thou me on. Keep thou my feet, I do not ask to see The distant scenes, one step enough for me.
446
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
So long Thy power hath blest me, sure it still will Lead me on. O'er moor and fen, or crag and torrent till The night is gone, And with the morn those angel faces smile Which I have loved, long since and lost awhile." While we cannot, like the poet, sing in notes almost divine, yet we can and do with faith and high aspirations reach up and receive a comforting response from the Throne of Grace to the simple prayer "Father, guide and guard me to the place where Thou art". Brethren, by this simple prayer of faith the votaries of our Order, and good men of all time have thus prayed and through it humanity has kept in close touch with GOD. Without that faith, without that conviction of divine Lordship, our Order would not, could not be. By that faith and by that conviction our Order is. By it and through it cur Fraternity is the power that it is. By it and through it, we, each of us, realize the depth of GOD'S mercy and of GOD'S love. By it and through it, each of us has found kinship with our brethren. It has welded us into a fraternity "which has outlived the fortunes of kings and the mutations of empires"—"The citizen toihng in humble poverty", and the most exa.ltp.r) men of all time have alike uttered this simple prayer and through it have found realization of the dearness of their fellowmen, and the nearness of GOD—"Their rock, their fortress and their might. Thou Lord, their captain in the well fought fight. Thou in the darkness drear, their one true Light". Let us for a moment consider the lives of some of our brethren, who a year ago were with us, who talked with us, who walked with us, who ate with us, who fellowshipped with us; but who today are with us only in blessed memory. In whose spirit presence we today stand with bowed heads—with swelling hearts, and with tear suffused eyes. Brother WILLIAM, a farmer, of whom it is said by those who knew him best, that truth always fell from his lips, that equity and right guided his mind, that gentleness and righteousness filled his heart. In his home an ample hospitahty did there abide. In his community he was a generous, helpful, sympathetic neighbor. In civic affairs he was one in whose heart there was no guile. He is gone from among us, but his fine manly spirit still lives and sways the hearts of all who knew him. Brother JOHN, the village merchant, lived and dealt honestly and helpfully among his friends and neighbors for forty years, giving value for value received. The poor never appealed to him in vain. He did his full share in civic duty. When he died all the people of his community went about the street and mourned their common loss in the death of their good friend and neighbor. Brother GEORGE, the village carpenter and builder, whose pride was in the perfectness of the material and workmanship that went
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
447
into the homes he built for his friends and neighbors. In the fullness of time he was called to dwell in "That house not made with hands". Brother JAMES, the engineer, for fifty years he had with strong, steady hand, clear mind and brave heart, driven his engine over his run, through sunshine and storm, through verdant summer and freezing winter, always safe and sure. His comrades lovingly called him DAD —not only because of his years, but because of his kindly helpfulness to the young men with whom he worked. I can see him now on his engine, his hand on the throttle, his head out of the window, his keen eyes on the track ahead, his gray hair tossing in the wind—brave heart, strong heart, every inch a hero. Kindly nature gave the signal, and he went to his eternal home. Brother THOMAS, the village blacksmith, whom we have all known and loved and honored, whose name and fame for his goodness, his honesty, his piety and his sterling worth is sung into our hearts by the tender poet who said of him—"That he looked the whole world in the face, for he owed not any man." Brother DAVID, the village preacher— "A man to all the country dear, And passing rich with forty pounds a year. At church with meek and unaffected grace, His looks adorned the venerable place. Truth from his lips prevailed with double sway— And fools who came to scoff, remained to pray. The service passed, around the pious man With steady zeal each honest rustic ran. Even the children followed with endearing wile. And plucked his gown to share the good man's smile. To them his heart, his love, his griefs were given But all his serious thoughts had rest in Heaven." Brother RICHARD, the village doctor. A real doctor of the old school, " T h e dourest, the ruggedest, the strongest, yet the sweetest, the tenderest man in all the glen". Honored, trusted and loved by all. When his skill the dread disease could not stay, he told of the Great Physician and led the way. Brethren, the characters above sketched were of our Order, of our number. Masons, who deeply realized their filial duty to their creator and their fraternal duty to their fellowmen. In their lives we find their counterpart in every Masonic community and lodge in this Grand • Jurisdiction. It is our purpose in this to bring home to each of us a deep realization of the intimate loss we have all sustained in the passing of those who were near and dear to us in our fraternal bond since last we met. In this cross section of the great body of Masonry, we have touched but a few of our membership who have passed into the Great Beyond. They are types of the representative men of our Order. Men of sterling
448
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
worth and character, who make up the rank and file of our Fraternity, which is strong and virile and- enduring because of them. For that reason we cherish their memory, and are grateful to them for the rich heritage which they have left to us. It has been said that cherished memories are one of our greatest blessings. They are a wealth of mind and soul that must be reckoned with. They have a bearing on the present and the future because of their reaction upon us. The happy days of the past in which our departed friends played a part, are memories which we are happy in finding ourselves unable to forget. Memories are given to us for our joy, comfort and guidance along the pathway of life to those happy days to come. In memory we again clothe our friends with the reality of a living presence, they occupy again their old places, they talk with us, they joy with us, they fellowship with us again in that spirit comradeship which lives and warms our hearts. Those who have gone before us into the Great Beyond have left in our hands the rich heritage—a heritage of high thinking, noble living, a reverence for GOD, and home, womankind, and native land. The strong fortress that guards our civilization from defilement, from corruption, this is our sacred heritage, and it is our bounden duty as Masons to labor unceasingly to its fulfillment in our own lives PTIH characters. We are grateful to the All Wise Providence that the ranks of our official family have remained unbroken, that each has been given health and strength to perform his allotted task and to render to this Most Worshipful Grand Lodge an account of his stewardship. We are also signally blest, in that time has dealt so kindly with those of our brethren who in the past presided over the deliberations of this Most Worshipful Grand Lodge, that these Most Worshipful Brothers are permitted to be with us today rendering splendid service to the Ancient Craft. We said t h a t the ranks of our official family remained unbroken. This is but partly true. For many years the gates of the Temple were guarded by one of our venerable and much loved brethren, WILLIAM J. BOND, Assistant to the Grand Tyler. Today we miss his genial smile, his hearty handclasp, his cheery words of welcome. While he had never presided over his lodge as Master, yet his work and worth among the brethren of the Craft was such that endeared him to all. He is especially missed by his brethren at Topeka, where for nearly a third "of a century he served the several Masonic Bodies in such a helpful intimate way that his memory is enshrined in the hearts of all of his brethren. In thirty of our sister Grand Jurisdictions the death angel has made forty-two visitations to those who had achieved high distinction in our Order and called them to their eternal home, where they are now partaking of the joys of immortality.. It would be fitting and proper that extended eulogy be given to each of these Most Worshipful
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
449
Brethren but an indulgence in this most worthy task here is precluded by time. Theii memories are enshrined in the hearts of their brethren who knew and loved them best, each having been a skillful craftsman. They builded better than they knew and their works do follow them. In our Grand Jurisdiction one thousand and forty have laid down the trowel, put aside the apron, and have passed into the presence of the Grand Architect to receive the wages of a well spent life. To those who are most deeply bereaved in the loss of those near and dear to them we have but little to offer that will lessen the grief that does so heavily beset them. We can only and do remind them of the blessed assurance . of an immortality, which survives the grave, which is not the end of man, but the gateway to life eternal. In conclusion, my brethren, what lessons may we draw from the lives of the good men, the great men who have preceded us into the Life Eternal. They were men who deeply realized the great responsibility of living, whose lives were constructive, lives of achievement, devoted to the solution of the problems which the natural world placed before them, problems of civic duty and the problems of social life. In the solution of the problems of nature, GOD placed the elements of the earth in man's hands and said unto him, "Conquer and subdue them for your use, for your food, for your raiment, for your comfort, and your happiness." The achievement of man toward the solution of these great problems sheds new glory upon GoD'S plan, GOD'S mercy and GOD'S love for His children. In the solution of civic problems we now find that man's neighbors are not limited to those with whom he comes in daily contact, neithei* are they limited by the boundaries of states and nations. The spirit of good-will found generous response in their hearts as it leaped beyond international boundaries, to foreign lands and to the islands of the sea. In social life, they labored unceasingly to make life's burdens lighter for their fellowmen, to heal the sick, to relieve the distressed, to aid the poor, to make opportunity for a decent, wholesome living equal to all. These are the lessons of accomplishment which our departed brethren have given into our hands. It is a goodly heritage that has come down to us. May we follow closely the path which they have so clearly made for us. May we so emulate their examples of devotion, of duty to GOD, and to our fellowmen that when at last we come before the Grand Architect of the Universe may He say unto us, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joys of thy Lord". Fraternally submitted, HARRY E . PEACH,
Committee
450
. PROCEEDINGS OF THE'
February,
CALL FROM LABOR TO REFRESHMENT. The Grand Master called the M.-. W.-. Grand Lodge from labor to refreshment until 1:00 p. M.
AFTERNOON SESSION. February 20, 1929. The Grand Master called the M.-.W.-. Grand Lodge from refreshment to labor at 1:00 p. M. WEDNESDAY,
ORATION.
The M.'. W.". Grand Master introduced Ero. WALLACE B. FLEMING, President, Baker University, Baldwin, Kansas, and a member of Palmyra Lodge No. 23, Baldwin, who delivered the following oration, which, on motion of R.-. W.-. GEORGE F . BEEZLEY, was ordered printed in the Annual Proceedings: Most Worshipful Grand Master and Brethren: There is a legend that at the completion of the building of the temple of K I N G SOLOMON a meeting was held in honor of the craftsmen who had toiled upon the work. The architect, and overseers, and master craftsmen of every kind who had had important parts in the rearing of the temple were assembled. In a position of honor there was a stranger. He had not appeared among the workmen during the erecting of the temple. They were not aware that he had had any part in the work. Inquiry was made as to the right of the stranger to a place of honor. "Who is this m a n ? " was the question upon many lips. At the proper time KING SOLOMON introduced the stranger saying: "This man is the master toolsmith. He holds a position of honor among us because by the skill of his
1928-29.
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craftsmen in giving proper temper and edge to the tools of the workmen the labor of all the others has been made effective." My right to be among you today is somewhat similar. I represent the craft of the toolsmith. I t is the business of the educator to impart wisdom and skill to the workman and to temper and give cutting edge to the abilities with which men toil. Here today you represent the Masons who are building a better civilization. The place of honor which you have accorded to me is acknowledged as an expression of your appreciation of the craft of the toolsmiths, or the educators. And for this reason, it is deeply appreciated by me. I wish to speak to you of three things fundamental to Masonry: The first of these is Toil. The first striking impression which one unfamiliar with our Order • gets, comes from our very name. We are Masons. We are builders. We are toilers. We believe in industry. The thought of constructive work is fundamental with us. The historic scenes upon which our work is based center around the toiling in the building of the temple of KING SOLOMON. The great characters whose names we cherish and commemorate were all men who labored in one way or another as builders of the Temple of GOD. In the shelter of our lodge rooms as we hold intimate and satisfying fellowship, one with another, we are e'xhorted so to divide the hours of our day as to leave ample room for honest work. The Masonic view is much truer than the ordinary understanding of toil. There are still many who do not understand the first great Light, and who think of labor as a curse of GOD pronounced upon man since the days of his first transgression in Eden. They are not wise enough to see that the words divinely spoken " I n the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread" were not spoken as a curse upon man, but in reality were the announcement of GOD'S first provision for human redemption. There is no hope without toil. Labor is ennobling. All history bears record to this fact. All human experience verifies it.
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Some years ago two Oxford professors who were in Egypt uncovered the library of a city long buried in the desert sands. The place is called Oxyrhynchus. Their discovery was one of the most important archeological discoveries of modern times. Literally cart loads of precious ancient manuscripts many of which had been lost to the world were recovered. They are now in the British Museum. Most precious of all among their discoveries was a single sheet containing a number of lost sayings of JESUS. Some of these lost sayings were partly known because of reference to them in early Christian writings. Others are closely parallel to words recorded by the Gospel writers. One of these sayings reads as follows: "Lift the stone and thou shalt find me; cleave the wood and I am there." Reading this saying again and again one wonders if it does not mean that beside every worthy Mason and builder stands the CHRIST; and if we are to find Him we must find Kim in our toiling—''Lift the stone and thou shalt find me; cleave the wood and I am there." With true understanding of the worth of toil Doctor HENRY VAN DYKE has written a beautiful little book called " T h e Toiling of Felix". Without reviewing the entire book let me simply state that a young man called F E L I X seeks spiritual freedom in a number of ways and seeks it in vain. At last he turns from his fruitless quest to toil in a great stone-quarry. There as he shares the labor and fellowship of men who toil, he finds the Great Companion. He comes to see that in the lifting of the stone and in the cleaving of the wood, in toil and labor, CHRIST is made known. The story comes to its climax in a beautiful poem as follows: " B u t I think the King of that country comes out from his tireless host; And walks in this world of the weary, as if he loved it the most; For here in the dusty confusion, with eyes that are heavy and dim. He meets again the laboring men who are looking and longing for him.
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"He cancels the curse of Eden, and brings them a blessing instead; Blessed are they that labor, for JESUS partakes of their bread. He puts his hand to their burdens, he enters their homes at night; Who does his best shall have as a guest the Master of life and of light. "And courage will come with His presence, and patience return at His touch. And manifold sins be forgiven to those who love Him much; And cries of envy and anger will change to the songs of cheer. For the toiling age will forget its rage when the Prince of Peace draws near. --
" This is the gospel of labor—ring it ye bells of the kirk— The Lord of Love came down from above, to live with the men who work. This is the rose that he planted, here in the thorn-cursed soil— Heaven is blest with perfect rest, but the blessing of earth is toil." HENRY VAN DYKE.
Not a word of the beautiful story of Doctor VAN DYKE ought to be changed, yet in the saying of JESUS, "Lift the stone and thou shalt find me", one wonders if the Master did not have the thought of temple-building definitely in mind. The second basic principle of which I wish to speak^is Reverence. The Mason respects the work of the architect. He does not pick up materials at random and build them into the temple in the order of his own fancy. He looks well to the plans and specifications. He studies carefully the work upon the trestle-board. Those who toiled in the building of KING SOLOMON'S Temple knew that they were following the plans of the wonderful architect, HIRAM, the widow's son. Their confidence in his wisdom explains the success of the work. You will remember the one incident in which their confidence wavered. At one point in the building of the temple the
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workmen came upon a stone which was not cut in what appeared to be a regular way. It was neither oblong nor square. They could not see how it would fit into the structure being erected. They concluded that at this one point the great architect had made a mistake. The beautiful but strangely cut stone was cast aside, but after some time as the workmen proceeded by the laying up of other stones an irregular space appeared, and it turned out that the stone cast aside exactly fitted into this important space. And so we read: " T h e stone which the builders rejected is become the head of the corner." The ancient temple arose in majesty and beauty because the masons followed the architect's plans. We as speculative Masons are striving to build the temple of a better civilization for the honor of our GOD. We are aware that the plans are not of our own making. There is a Supreme Architect of the Universe. The events, the circumstances, the abilities and the opportunities of our lives are the materials with which we build. We seek not to follow our own will; we study the work upon the trestle-board that our toiling may fit into the perfect Temple of GOD. Sometimes we come to experiences that do not square with our expectations—great sorrows, sudden calamities—materials apparently ill-fitted for use in temple building. Sometimes we are tempted to reject such stones and conclude that here at least the Great Architect has made a mistake: but as the years pass and our wisdom matures we appreciate more arid more the value of reverence for the Architect,—not reverence as a passive attitude but reverence which leads us to study and to follow His plan and to look well to the work which he lays out on life's trestle-board each day. Years ago I had the pleasure of erecting a great stone church. From the architect's drawings a beautiful oil painting had been made of the church as it would appear when completed. This picture was placed in the little frame meeting house from which we were about to move. Occasionally I used to take the workmen to that meeting house to let them gaze upon the goal of their toiling. I
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used to say, "You are not working to make two dollars or five dollars per day. You are working to build this temple for the worship of G O D " . Men whose work had been irksome, men who had been laying foundations down in muck and mire, and who were themselves all grimy with dirt, held their heads a bit higher and found a new dignity in their tasks as they realized that toward which they were toiling and saw that they had only to follow the architect's plan to arrive at the noble end. Such occasions as this meeting of the Grand Lodge and even the quiet, restful meetings of our several home lodges afford opportunity for us to contemplate again the temple which we are building and the plans of the Supreme Architect which we are to follow. Such occasions give us new strength and dignity as we go forward to the building each day according to the Great Architect's plans. This spirit of reverence in attitude and in life is one of the marks of a true Mason for it is a basic principle of our ancient Order. The third great ideal of Masonry about which I wish to speak is Brotherhood. This is a popular theme. Much has been written about the Fatherhood of GOD and the Brotherhood of Man, and it may be said that the stars are moving together toward the consummation of these ideals. One hundred years ago the court gossip of Europe was printed in the newspapers of America three months after the events occurred, and that was called news. In the War of 1812 the Battle of New Orleans was fought after peace had been declared because the men did not know that the war was over. New York City and Philadelphia, ninety miles apart, were separated by a two-day journey and the stage coach that could make so long a journey in two days was called a Flying Coach. Now on any one of a hundred railroad trains a day you can make the journey in two hours. The lightning is now our messenger. The ends of the Earth have come together. The world has become a little neighborhood. To our telegraph and telephone lines we have now added the ether wave. The little
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neighborhood world in which we now live admits and even requires constant inter-communication of all nations and peoples. Civilization can only progress on the basis of good-will. The movement of the age tends toward the realization of the ideal of human brotherhood. With all this true Masons are in hearty sympathy. Our ancient Order is rendering noble service in the spiritualization of this fabric of international associations; for among all the great peoples of the world our Order is exerting its quiet constructive upbuilding influence. While we rejoice in all this we do well also to think of the values of brotherhood as it relates to each of us. A great deal of the worth of life can be expressed in the word friendship. You need not seek far to find people whose lives are increasingly lonely and cheerless. The present mode of living, in part, accounts for this. We leave behind us the years of youth where friendships were rapidly formed and dearly treasured. We become preoccupied with our personal problems and tasks; and frequently we leave too little time for the cultivation and protection of friendships. To me it is pathetic to note the wistfulness in some men's voices as they sing together such songs as " T h a t Old Gang of Mine". The yearning for the lost days of youth means that such men are living lives of growing loneliness. As a result of these facts within the last ten or fifteen years a number of men's organizations have sprung up and have spread over the world,— organizations in which the members call each other by their first names, slap each other on the back and in some cases very awkwardly strive for friendships resembling those lost in their past. I make no criticism of any of these. I mention the matter merely as showing the struggle that men make against the cheerless isolation and loneliness into which men's lives easily drift; and then I wish to point out that the contribution of Masonry toward the building of World Brotherhood includes for the individual man an opportunity to protect enduring friendships in such a way as to enable him to live a life of increasing satisfaction to the end of his days, and that is
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exactly what the Supreme Architect intended life should be like. The design of life as laid out by the Supreme Architect contemplates this course of increasing satisfaction for the individual, a life in which the deep enduring joys grow as the years pass. It is true that popular opinion is to the contrary. It is true that many people look back to childhood as the happy time of life and this view is reflected even in our music and poetry. "Backward, turn backward, O time in your flight, make me a child again just for tonight", or "Had I wealth and earthly power, I'd give all for an hour just to sit a child again at mother's knee". Many other illustrations could be given. The explanation of these facts, in part, is that men are blessed with memories somewhat like sieves. The dirt and the grime wash through with the passing of the years and the golden nuggets of happiness are retained. Therefore, when they think of the years that are gone they think only of these precious treasures of memory which they have carried with them. A little definite effort at recollection will show the real truth in the matter. For example I recall my first big business disappointment. We were living on a farm. I was a very little child. One springtime I had a great yearning to be the owner of a colt. As I recall it colts did not look to me then as they do now. Now they seem to be mostly legs; but then I thought a colt to be a thing of wondrous beauty. I recall very clearly that one day a neighbor drove up by our home. I saw father talking to him out at the roadside and I saw that beside one of the horses was a little colt. I ran out as quickly as I could. I distinctly remember pulling at my father's coat to get his attention. The farmer saw my action and said, "What do you want, Bub?" I replied, " I want Pa to buy me the colt." He said, "Why don't you buy it yourself?" I repHed, " I don't know if I've got enough money in my bank." He said, "How much you got?" and I told him that I had
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eleven cents. He said, "All right, go and get the money and you can have the colt". I only touched the high spots between the gate and the house. I got the eleven big old-fashioned copper pennies and they looked to me like a pile of money. I ran back to the road and held them up to the man and then he "haw-hawed" and laughed at me. I shall never forget the sickening feeling that came over me. My father and mother had never lied to me. Here I was a little fellow facing a big world and not knowing how many people would treat a fellow that way. The years have passed and I suppose that I could show my share of the pretty green paper that represents financial follies just as some of the rest of you can; but across all the years, no business disappointment that ever came to me hurt like that first one did. No, childhood's days were not all happy days. In them we meet our first knowledge of death. I could tell you the story of the loss of a six-year old brother when I was a lad of eight. Life brings no heavier burdens than those that come in childhood; and we need to remember that the heavy burdens of childhood fall upon small shoulders. We think of childhood days as a time of joy because a kindly GOD has constructed our memory so that the unpleasant things are easily forgotten while we carry the joyous memories forward with us. The second reason for the commonly accepted belief that the happy years of life are back in childhood is the fact that men are careless of their friendships: they do not deepen and enlarge their relations of brotherhood, and, therefore, in many cases, they find that increasing loneliness and dreariness to which I have referred. One of the proverbs of KING SOLOMON was "The path of the just is as the shining light that shineth more and more until the perfect day." Let us look to the designs of life as laid out by the Supreme Architect. Let us think of life in four general divisions: childhood, youth, manhood, and old age. Now, what is t h e normal joy of childhood? It is that of the
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exercise of imagination. It is play; it is make-believe; it is dreaming. Childhood is the time when we can look into the sky and see great ships sailing through the blue ocean. We can see the fabled castles, or marching armies, or distorted giants, or a dozen other things that grownfolks know nothing about. Little children know what the trees are saying when they wave their arms or nod their heads. Little children know what the birds are singing about, for little children have imagination. But the joys of make-believe are not very great joys. What are the normal joys of-youth? I think they are the joys of awakening. In youth there is an awakening of the mysterious physical powers of life; but the physical changes are unimportant beside the awakening of intellectual abilities and spiritual powers. Youth makes many of life's greatest decisions. It is then that the quality of life itself is determined. Life work is chosen. If the life-mate is not definitely found, at least the standard to be met is determined. Even the relation of the soul to GOD is usually decided in youth. In the consciousness of power and in the realization of responsibility as these awakened powers are applied to such vastly important decisions, youth finds a joy immeasurably greater than the dream joy of childhood. Let us consider the normal joy of manhood. These, when life has followed the Divine pattern, are the joys of battle, the joys of accomplishment, the joys of high purposes realized. Every man who goes out to honest work of brain or hand and comes back at night to his home and family has a right to great satisfaction as he realizes that his efforts are providing shelter and clothing and food for his wife and the little ones whom GOD has entrusted to his care. Such joys are vastly greater than the dream-joys of childhood or the awakening joys of youth. Then remember that life's earlier satisfactions need not be left behind as we journey on. Years ago, when HENRY WARD BEECHER was at the height of his wonderful career as a minister of GOD, he was booked to give a lecture in
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New York one evening. As the hour drew near his secretary sought to remind him of his engagement. Search was made but he was not in the house. They found the great man on a side-street playing with some little children. He had a stick in his mouth to which were tied strings that ran back over his shoulders. A little fellow had hold of the strings and was "playing horse". HENRY WARD BEECHER had not lost the joys of childhood; and yet life had brought him vastly greater joys. He had had a noble part in holding together the two halves of the divided nation in the struggle of the Civil War. He was doing a inarvelous work as a minister of CHRIST in the lifting of this world nearer to GOD. It would be quite as difficult to take the vast satisfactions of such a life and put them back into the measure of childhood's capacity as to take the full grown oak tree and force it back into the acorn cup again. But let us think of the joy of old age when life is lived by the Divine pattern. These seem to me to be two-fold; the joy of the evening time and that of the home-coming. Springtime is good; summertime is better; but the ripe fruits of the autumn are the justifications of the hopes of the springtime and the toiling of the summer. In old age the "bread cast upon the waters" is found again after many days. In old age life's friendships have multiplied and grown richer until they link two worlds. The serene rest of the evening time enriched by the consciousness of friendships that have deepened into a Brotherhood is the richest period of life. But old age also has the joy of the forward look. It has been my habit for many years to seek opportunity for conversation with men who have traveled in distant lands, for no two travelers see the same things. Some time ago a very discriminating friend of mine returned from a visit in Europe. I sat with him until two o'clock in the morning discussing the wonders which he had seen. At the last I said to him, "Now, FRED, tell me the most wonderful thrill that you had on the journey." He replied, "You could never guess where it was!"
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My first guess was Westminster Abbey. "As you stood there beside the tombs of England's mighty dead, as you visited the poet's corner and read one after another inscription, what surging emotions you must have had. Was this the most exciting hour?" He said, "No, though that was wonderful; it was an experience that I can never forget; and yet you have not guessed the exciting hour of the whole voyage". I said, "Was it when you visited the Louvre in Paris where the world's great masterpieces of art are displayed by the acre and you could look upon the highest achievement of artistic genius?" for I knew that FRED was an artist as well as a poet. He answered, " That was wonderful. My only regret was that I did not have the time to spend a month there; but you have not yet guessed the biggest hour.". Knowing that FRED was a minister of the gospel and a classic scholar I said, "Was it when you stood in the Colosseum at Rome, and looked upon the scenes amid which the ancient Christian martyrs died, and almost fancied you could hear again the mobs shouting, ' T h e Christians to the lions?' or when in that same Eternal City you went down the Appian Way following the footsteps of Saint PAUL to the place of his execution? Was it in Rome that you met the most thrilling hour?" When he answered " N o " , and I pressed him to tell me since I could not guess, he said, "Now, you'll only laugh at me. You will think I am queer, but I am going to tell you. The greatest thrill came to me when I was so near to New York harbor on my return as to enable me to catch the first faint glimpse of the New Jersey hills and to realize that I would soon be in the harbor and with my own folks. Other ships passed me beginning their voyages. Their flags were waving, and their bands were playing. Young folks starting their journey looked across at me and probably said, 'Poor old fellow; his journey is about over, his voyage is almost ended'. But I could almost pity them as I realized how much greater joy was mine."
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KING SOLOMON said, "The path of the just is as the shining light that shineth more and more until the perfect day." I take it that he means that, if we look well to the work upon the trestle-board each day and are faithful to the orders of the Great Architect, enriching our lives with friendships that deepen into sacred brotherhood, then life's satisfactions will increase with the passing of the years until the day dawns and the shadows flee away a:nd we appear before the Supreme Architect; then we shall find t h a t "In His presence is fullness of joy and at His right hand are pleasures forevermore." Such a life belongs to everyone who lives according to GOD'S plan. Brethren, let us realize again the importance of our relationship in the Masonic brotherhood. Sickness, anxieties and bereavements come to the lives of all. A true Mason will be alert to his responsibilities to relieve a brother Mason in. distress, his widow or orphan, and by exemplifying real Masonic brotherhood will find himself Vv'alking the path of increasing satisfaction which we have been contemplating. These then are the three words I bring to you today, industry, reverence, brotherhood. They represent much of the true spirit of Masonry.
R E P O R T OF SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON REVISION OF CONSTITUTION AND BY-LAWS.
R.-. W.-. ALBERT K . WILSON, chairman, submitted the following report, which, on motion, was adopted: To The M:. W.: Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: Your committee, in presenting their formal report concerning a revision of several sections of the Constitution and the By-Laws, desires first as a matter of reference in the future, to briefly state the action of the Grand Lodge in authorizing this committee to perform the duty assigned to them. In the report of R.-. W.-. ALBERT K . WILSON, Grand Secretary in 1927, as shown on page 625 of the Proceedings, he recommended that a new edition of our Laws be published, and that a special committee of two be appointed with instructions to submit a revision at our next Annual Communication.
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This subject was referred to the Committee on Jurisprudence, (page 718, Proceedings 1927) who recommended that the incoming Grand Master appoint a committee of two to make such revision. In accordance with this recommendation R.'. W.". ALBERT K . WILSON, Grand Secretary, and M.-.W.'. ELRICK C . COLE, were ap-
pointed on this committee. At the Annual Communication of 1928 the committee submitted a report recommending several amendments to the Constitution, as shown on pages 154 to 160 inclusive. Proceedings 1928. No proposed changes in the By-Laws were submitted at that time as under Section 7 of Article VIII of the Constitution all proposed amendments to the Constitution, after being sustained by two-thirds of all the members present in Grand Lodge, shall be engrossed and sent to all lodges for action thereon. I t was therefore recommended that all proposed amendments to the By-Laws be submitted at the next Annual Communication. The full report of the action taken by the lodges on these proposed amendments will be found in the report of the Grand Secretary, which shows that more than two-thirds of the lodges agreed t o the proposed amendments, due proclamation of which will be made by the M.'. W.\ Grand Master. Your committee have now completed a revision of the By-Laws, taking into consideration the several amendments to the Constitution, and they are herewith submitted for your consideration at this Annual Communication. In the preparation of this work your committee have had in mind at all times the desirability of following the general plan of our present laws in the matter of noting references to the Constitution, notes of explanation by the committee, and wherever possible, retaining the foot notes of our late renowned Masonic jurist, M.'. W.". OWEN A. BASSETT. In some instances it was found that the notes of Brother BASSETT could not be applied to the proposed amended By-Law and in slich cases the necessary changes were made and the foot note is therefore entered as a note by the Committee on Revision, 1929. Your committee also found it necessary to drop a number of decisions from the list as they were either absorbed in an amended or new law, or were in conflict with some section of the amendments. In the publication of the new revision of our Constitution and By-Laws your committee would recommend that that portion of the last edition of our laws known as "Landmarks—Bassett Notes" be again included as an Appendix to this volume and that the Landmarks defined by that distinguished jurist. Doctor MACKEY, also be included. ALBERT K . WILSON, ELRICK C . COLE,
Committee,
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Following the reading of the report the Grand Master issued the following proclamation: By and under authority vested in me as Grand Master under Section 7 of Article VIII of the Constitution of The M.-. W.-. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas, I hereby proclaim the following sections of the Constitution duly amended, all having been approved by more than two-thirds of all the lodges in this Grand Jurisdiction: Article Article Article Article Article
I, Sections 4 and 7. I I I , Section 6. IV, Section 5. V, Sections 3 and 6. VI, Sections 3 and 5.
The committee then proceeded with the reading of the revised laws, decisions and annotations, and with the unanimous consent of the Grand Lodge the customary action to be taken on each section was waived during the presentation with the understanding that if any member desired to offer any amendments or suggest any changes separate action would be taken on that particular section; otherwise it would be considered that they were adopted by the required two-thirds vote. A number of explanations and interpretations of the new laws were made by the committee. These are on file in the office of the Grand Secretary and will be furnished on specific application. At 3:15 further consideration was postponed until the Grand Lodge called on at 7:15 P. M. CALL FROM LABOR TO REFRESHMENT. The Grand Master called the M.-. W.-. Grand Lodge from labor to refreshment until 7:15 p. M.
A short program was given by the children of the Masonic Home, just prior to the evening session of the Grand Lodge, consisting of orchestral and chorus numbers under the direction of Brother RALPH D . COTTON, Superintendent, assisted by the Matron Mrs. MAYME
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HAINES. This little entertainment was thoroughly enjoyed, and the sight of our children under the direction of our Superintendent and Matron who are acting as father and mother to them in our stead was pleasing and inspiring.
EVENING SESSION.
WEDNESDAY,
February 20, 1929.
The Grand Master called the M.-.W.-. Grand Lodge from refreshment to labor at 7:15 P. M. CONTINUATION—REPORT
OF SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON LAWS.
The Special Committee then resumed the reading of the proposed revision of the laws, and at the conclusion the several Sections were adopted as a whole by more than a two-thirds vote. REPEAL.
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R.-. W.-. ALBERT K . WILSON submitted the following resolution, which, on motion, was unanimously adopted: Resolved, That the Constitution, By-Laws and Decisions of t h e Grand Lodge heretofore in effect and which are not included in the report of the Special Committee on Revision of the Constitution and By-Laws are hereby ordered repealed, and ordered to be held inoperative from and after the publication of the Proceedings of this Annual Communication. (For Constitution, By-Laws, Decisions and annotations, see Appendix following tliis journal and the tables.)
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SPECIAL REPORT OF C O M M I T T E E ON LAWS.
M.-. W.-. ELRICK C . COLE submitted the following report, which, on motion, was adopted: ' To The M:. W.-.Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: Your Committee on Revision of Laws fraternally recommend that 2,000 copies of the new edition of our Laws be printed, using substantially the same quality of paper and binding as the edition of 1913. In the distribution of these Laws it is recommended that one copy be furnished each lodge and which shall be receipted for by the newly elected Master at the time of submitting the Annual Report; one copy to each District Deputy Grand Master, to be receipted for by each at the time of his appointment; one copy to each Grand Lodge with which we are in fraternal relations; one copy to each elective and past elective Grand Officer, and one copy each to the Kansas State Library and Kansas State Historical Society. Further distribution shall be left to the discretion of the Council of Administration. Your committee would also recommend that an Index Digest, following the general plan of the 1913 edition with necessary changes and additions to conform to the new Laws, be included with the 1929 edition, and that the present committee be continued and authorized to complete this work and have the Laws printed and bound. In order to avoid serious mistakes in the future, it is recommended that the Grand Secretary require a return of the 1913 Laws at,the time of distributing our new edition. Fraternally submitted, ALBERT K . WILSON, ELRICK C . COLE,
Committee. LAWS BECOME E F F E C T I V E .
M.-. W.-. GILES H . LAMB moved that the new laws become effective upon their publication in the Annual Proceedings, and the motion was adopted. CALL FROM LABOR TO REFRESHMENT. The Grand Master then called the M.-.W.-. Grand Lodge from labor to refreshment until 8:30 A. M., Thursday.
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MORNING SESSION. THURSDAY,
February 21, 1929.
The M.\ W.'. Grand Lodge was called from refreshment to labor by the M.-. W.-. Grand Master at 8:30 A. M. REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON CHARTERED LODGES AND LODGES U. D.
W.-. ELLSWORTH B . SEWELL, J R . , presented the following report, which, on motion, was adopted: To The M:. W.: Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: The work of this committee depends to a great extent upon data furnished us by the Grand Secretary's office. The organization that has been built in that office supplies us with the necessary correspondence and information, so that a great deal of our work is merely routine. This year it was necssary to make^a change in Grand Secretaries, because of the resignation of R.\ W.'. Brother WILSON, but we were very fortunate in being able to replace him with probably one of the best equipped members of our organization. Your committee is pleased to report that the necessary information for the compilation of its work was handed to us in the customary efficient manner, and the new Grand Secretary is to be congratulated. In our opinion, the correspondence with the subordinate lodges for the past year shows a noticeable improvement. Practically all of our Secretaries have displayed a commendable spirit of co-operation, and very little criticism is necessary. However, we do feel that more care could be exercised in the selection of men for this position, and if our lodges would select someone who has had clerical experience, the work of the Grand Secretary's office would be noticeably lighter. ) MANNER OP PAYING OUT LODGE FUNDS.
Although we called your attention last year to the fact that a great many of our lodges were not using the approved warrant for the dispensing of their funds, we find numerous instances where the law is not being obeyed, and we desire again to impress upon you the necessity of providing yourselves with the proper warrafiit blanks.
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February,
ANNUAL REPORT FORMS.
Your committee has felt for a number of years that the present forms furnished the lodges to be used in making their Annual Reports could be improved upon. The present form is in the shape of a book, which can, with difficulty, be inserted into a typewriter. We should encourage the use of the typewriter in making these reports, and we believe that a loose leaf form can be devised, so that the leaves can be taken out and inserted in the typewriter more readily. The blanks for listing the membership can be numbered as they are at present, but a few blank forms could be included, so that in case of an eiror, an erasure would not be necessary, but a new sheet could be used. We also believe that considerable rhisunderstanding could be eliminated, if these forms were mailed to the lodges under registered cover, with a request that a receipt be returned. This policy would have a two-fold benefit: First, if a Secretary received the papers under registered cover, it would more forcibly impress their importance upon him; Second, a number of Secretaries claim they do not receive the blanks, and by handling as above suggested, the Grand Secretary would have a receipt. We further believe that when the reports are returned to the Grand Secretary, they should be sent under registered cover. The present system of determining whether or not the lodge is entitled to credentials is to take the postmark date of the sending station. At times this is illegible, and we know of one instance a number of years ago where a lodge mailed reports within the time prescribed by our law, but owing to the fact that the post office was closed, the envelope was not stamped until the next day, and they thereby lost their right to credentials. These changes are unusual, and we are not recommending them to you at this time, but would suggest that the Grand Secretary give them careful consideration, and if he does not feel that all, or any of them, should be accepted, we can at least work out some sort of a proposition to be presented to you next year. LODGE ANNUAL REPORTS.
The lists of errors in the reports are still too large, and we believe could be materially reduced if each lodge would check over this report, and where their lodge appears, ascertain from the Grand Secretary the nature of their error and refer back over their book of annual returns, making the necessary corrections. The list, is as follows: Differences in names and initials: Nos. 3, 7, 10, 13, 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, 26, 28, 31, 32, 33, 38, 39, 41, 42, 43, 44, 46, 51, 58, 61, 62, 66, 67, 68, 70, 72, 74, 77, 79, 83, 85, 93, 95, 96, 101, 106, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 115, 116, 120, 130, 131, 132, 135, 138, 139, 140, 141, 142, 149,
1928-29.
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LODGE
OF KANSAS.
469
153, 195, 239, 278, 319, 377, 438,
158, 161, 164, 165, 166, 170, 172, 176, 177, 184, 187, 188, 189, 192, 196, 201, 206, 209, 212, 213, 217, 222, 223, 228, 230, 234, 235, 236, 240, 243, 251, 252, 256, 257, 258, 259, 260, 261, 267, 273, 274, 277, 281, 283, 286, 290, 292, 293, 294, 295, 296, 297, 299, 300, 314, 315, 322, 324, 338, 341, 342, 344, 353, 354, 356, 357, 360, 361, 362, 369, 388, 391, 392, 398, 402, 403, 408, 409, 410, 417, 418, 420, 433, 437, 439, 445. Initials or abbreviations used: Nos. 28, 33, 41, 71, 96, 135, 151, 160, 163, 196, 212, 218, 228, 239, 248, 275, 294, 315, 337, 344, 352, 362, 365, 368, 394, 402, 424, 425, 427, 429. Not in alphabetical order on roll: Nos. 7, 11, 33, 47, 83, 165, 192, 223, 259, 290, 294, 299, 342, 369. Not in alphabetical order under work done: Nos. 165, 294, 441. List of officers incomplete: No. 248. Not signed by Secretary: Nos. 110, 285, 334, 353, 394. Filing space omitted: Nos. 83, 286. Ditto marks used: No. 201. Seal used: Nos. 176, 201, 320, 428, 439. SPECIAL MENTION.
No. 130 names reversed on roll. No. 201 used ditto marks last year also. No. 290 names interlined. One of the worst reports was received from Active Lodge No. 158 of Atchison. The Grand Secretary found fifty-one discrepancies in this report in the names of members as compared to last year's report. It is difficult for the committee to figure out how anyone could make this number of errors, if even ordinary care had been exercised. We trust that the Secretary of this lodge will make an effort to do better next year. One of the greatest problems confronting the Grand Secretary and his force is the handling of the large number of reports that are received just prior to the closing date. The reception of reports of the year just closed show that they came into the office between the dates of December 15th and January 23rd; 435 reports were received from January 2nd to January 11th, inclusive, and anyone familiar with the work of checking these, papers can readily see that the burden at this time of the year is too heavy. A portion of these 435 reports included those that had been received earlier and returned for correction, and if each Secretary would make an effort to forward his report at the earliest possible date, it would get away from this congestion during the busy time of January. Another factor that increases the work is the delay in returning reports that are incorrect. It would only take a few moments of any Secretary's time when his report is returned to him for correction to make the necessary changes and send it back.
470
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
We hope that an effort will be made next year on the part of the Secretaries to correct this, so that the work of the Grand Secretary's office may be lightened. CORRECTIONS OF ANNUAL REPORTS.
The stress over minor corrections in Annual Reports from lodges has continued for a very long period. While exactness in records and accounts must be borne in mind, we doubt the imperative necessity of correcting every little detail of the reports from the various lodges before closing the accounts. Practically every known business has its carrying accounts through which errors and omissions are corrected without injury to anyone. If the Grand Secretary can install such a needed system without impairing our records he will have the whole hearted support of this committee, and the co-operation of all our Secretaries. LODGES DENIED REPRESENTATION.
Credentials were denied five lodges because of their failure to make their report, or pay their dues, within the time as provided by law. The list is as follows: Tuscan Lodge No. 82, Neosho Falls. Halcyon Lodge No, 120^ Peabody. Greeley Lodge No. 211, Greeley. Roger E. Sherman Lodge No. 369, Kansas City. Wilmore Lodge No. 412, Wilmore. Both the Master and Secretary of these lodges are guilty of gross negligence and the membership should see to it that the necessary changes are made, so that there will not be a recurrence. In most cases the correspondence with these lodges clearly indicates the reason for their trouble. In one instance the Secretary apparently did not know the name of our recently appointed Grand Secretary, and in another case, the lodge failed to forward check for dues because their bank balance was too low. DATES FOR HOLDING ANNUAL ELECTIONS.
The Grand Secretary submits the usual list of lodges that held |heir elections on a date other than the one authorized by the Constitution of the Grand Lodge. We recommend that in all cases where the elections were held at a time other than specified by law, that proper application be made to the Grand Master for a Special Dispensation, another election held, and the usual fee of $5.00 be charged therefor. NO DATES OF ELECTION GIVEN.
It appears from the Annual Reports that sixteen Secretaries failed to report the date on which they held their annual election for 1928.
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LODGE
OF KANSAS.
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We recommend that the Grand Secretary take this matter up with each lodge, and where the election was held at a time other than authorized by law, they be required to make application for a Special Dispensation, paying the usual fee of $5.00 for same and hold another election. NO DATE FOR HOLDING STATED COMMUNICATION.
Nine lodges neglected to show on their report the time for holding their Stated Communications. The blanks furnished for Annual Returns are plain, and there is no excuse for this omission except carelessness. WHITE WATER LODGE.
At our last Annual Communication your committee recommended the continuance of Letters of Dispensation to White Water Lodge U. D. with certain restrictions. It appears that they declined to comply with our requirements and we approve the action of the Grand Master in refusing continuance of the Dispensation. LETTERS OP DISPENSATION.
With reference to the request for Letters of Dispensation from the brethren at Denton: inasmuch as there is no objection on the part of Severance Lodge, we recommend that the entire matter be referred to the incoming Grand Master. CONSOLIDATION OP LODGES.
At the request of Ottawa Lodge No. 18, and Melody Lodge No. 400, of Ottawa, these lodges were consolidated under the name and number of Ottawa Lodge No. 18. Under date of November 8, 1928, the Grand Master issued an Edict authorizing the consolidation, which action-is approved by your committee. PROTECTION OF RECORDS.
We were fortunate in not having a fire record the past year, but we want to again call your attention to the advisability of providing fireproof protection for your records. Important papers belonging to a great many lodges are either left in a desk at the lodge room, or taken home by the Secretary and Treasurer. In case of fire the records are usually destroyed, and it is impossible to duplicate them. Fireproof cabinets can be purchased at a very reasonable cost, and we hope that each one of you when you return home will investigate the matter, and if you are not provided with such a cabinet, you will communicate either with the chairman of this committee, or the Grand Secretary, and we will advise you where they can be purchased.
472
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE •
February,
RESTORATION OF CHARTERS.
The Grand Secretary's report gives you a list of lodges which have sent in their charters and he has also given you a list of the lodges that have not taken advantage of this service. A charter is a very important document and in a great many cases proper protection is not provided for it. We recommend that all lodges that have not sent their charter in for restoration, do so at the earliest possible moment. HISTORY OF LODGES.
We desire again to call your attention to the desirability of compiling a history of your lodge while data is available. Those of us who have had experience in compilation of history, particularly for the older lodges, realize tlie large amount of work that is necessary to secure the data desired. If this work is done while the lodge is still young, then added to from year to year, a complete history can be kept with little, or no, effort. While the importance of this may not appeal to you now, in years to come the history will be of great value to your lodge, and we recommend that any lodges that have not prepared histories, make the necessary arrangements to do so at an early date. REVOCATION OF CHARTER OF SHAWNEE LODGE NO. 5 4 .
On recommendation of this committee in our last report the charter of Shawnee Lodge No. 54 was revoked. An action of this kind, although it may be necessary for the good of the Fraternity, naturally works a hardship on some of the brethren, and as a result, a number of the former members of Shawnee Lodge No. 54 have signified a desire.for a Dispensation with the idea of starting a new lodge. We believe that their plea should at least be given consideration, and we, therefore, recommend that the matter be referred to the incoming Grand Master. LODGES U. D.
For the first time in a number of years we regret to report that we have had no lodges working under Dispensation the past year, and we, therefore, have no applications for charters. Fraternally submitted, ELLSWORTH B . SEWELL, J R . , JOHN DAVIS, WILLIAM A. WEIKAMP,
Committee.
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
473
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON CORRESPONDENCE.
R.-. W.-. ALBERT K . WILSON, chairman, stated that the Report on Correspondence had been prepared, printed, and would appear in the Annual Proceedings. REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEE.
M.-. W.-. CHARLES A. LOUCKS, chairman, submitted the following report, which, on motion, was adopted section by section, and as a whole. To The M.:W.: Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of. Kansas: There have been four matters referred to your Special Committee: the subject of History of Lodges and of certain portraits from the report of R.". W.\ ALBERT K . WILSON, Grand Secretary, the report of the Librarian, and from the Grand Master's address the subject of Masonic Home. HISTORY OF L O D G E S .
The Grand Secretary directs attention to the many lodges who have disregarded his appeal for such data as will enable him to complete his work in the preparation of a History of the Craft in this Grand Jurisdiction. Your committee most urgently recommends that every lodge which is guilty of this neglect at once assemble the necessary material and forward the same to R.-. W.'. ALBERT K . WILSON. PORTRAITS O F R.'. W . . BROTHERS DANIEL VANDERSLICE AND JOHN W. SMITH, AND W . \ BROTHER THOMAS J. VANDERSLICE, AND BROTHER WILLIAM WALKER.
The portraits of these venerable brethren, all of whom were pioneers of Masonry in this Grand Jurisdiction, were presented by Brother HOWARD VANDERSLICE, a member of Smithton Lodge No. 1, and who is the grandson of DANIEL VANDERSLICE and the son of
THOMAS J. VANDERSLICE. These pictures were presented to the Grand Lodge as a memorial to these distinguished Craftsmen. They are almost life size, very artistically framed, and have been placed on the walls in the Grand Lodge Library. We have no doubt the History of Masonry in this Grand Jurisdiction will contain interest-' ing accounts of these brethren and we take this opportunity, on behalf of the Grand Lodge, of thanking Brother HOWARD VANDERSLICE for his donation and would suggest that the Grand Master, on behalf of the Grand Lodge express its appreciation to Brother VANDERSLICE for these gifts.
474
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
REPORT OF LIBRARIAN.
This report is prepared in the usual painstaking manner of that distinguished Craftsman, is very comprehensive, and contains much information of value to the Craft, and your committee recommends the approval of the same. Thirty-five years ago, when R.-. W.-. ALBERT K . WILSON assumed his duties, our library contained but few volumes of value or interest, but through his diligence and fine sense of discrimination in the selection of Masonic literature, this Grand Lodge is now the owner of a very excellent Masonic Library containing many rare and valuable volumes of Masonic work. In addition to the many books of purely Masonic character, it also contains many volumes of the best works of literature, history, poetry, and the arts and sciences, making in all one of the largest and best libraries in the West, and of which we should be justly proud. In addition to the collecting of the library, our Brother has also accumulated an extensive, valuable and interesting museum consisting of old and rare articles, relics, records, working tools and emblems of the earlier lodges in this Grand Jurisdiction, and many other articles of Masonic character from various parts of the world. For his labors in these particular parts of the quarries, we wish to express our sincere and deep appreciation. MASONIC HOME.
The M.'.W.'. Grand Master emphasizes the most urgent and imperative need of additional room at the Kansas Masonic Home to meet the numerous applications for admission to the Home and to avoid the resort to the undesirable practice of maintaining a waiting list, calling attention to the fact that practically every room in the Home is now taken and occupied and those who apply hereafter will, of necessity, have to await a vacancy by death or otherwise. To meet this emergency, recognized by the Grand Master and apparently by all who are familiar with the present crowded condition of the Home, the M.-. W.'. Grand Master recommends that the special assessment of $1.00 per. member, per annum, for the period of five (5) years which was ordered at the last Annual Communication to be paid by each lodge, with the annual dues and fees, to the Grand Lodge, be paid over to the Masonic Home by the Grand Lodge at the close of each year, and that the Masonic Home Board be instructed to proceed along such lines as may be approved by this M.\W.'.Grand Lodge to provide additional room and facilities to care for our deserving, needy and dependent brothers, and their wives, widows and orphans. In this connection, the M.\W.". Grand Master enumerates the following four different methods of providing such additional facilities and rooming space as having been suggested by friends of the Home and this most worthy cause:
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GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
475
1. That the present Home be used for the older members and an entirely new Home be built for the children in some other part of the city of Wichita. 2. That the new Home for the children be built in some city or town other than Wichita, and be operated as an entirely separate institution. 3. That the present Home be enlarged to accommodate more members, both old and young. 4. That the tract of land west of the present building be used for the erection of another unit similar in architecture and design to the present building, one unit to be used for the older members, and the other for the children. The M.-.W..Grand Master concurs in the unanimous decision and judgment of the Masonic Home Board in approving the fourth plan or suggestion above mentioned as best adapted to the surrounding circumstances and needs of the Home. Your Special Committee, after a thorough examination of the existing conditions of the Home and the ground belonging to the Home, unanimously concur with the M..W.'.Grand Master in the several views expressed and recommendations made by him in this connection. Unless something is done at once to provide additional rooming facilities, applicants for admission will have to await their turn. With the funds partially raised, there seems to us no good and valid reason why they should not be used for the very purpose for which they were originally intended, to meet the urgent need instead of waiting until the entire sum covered by this special assessment shall have been raised, especially when it will of necessity require considerable time to construct suitable building or buildings for this purpose. Whatever merit there may be in each of the first three plans suggested, your committee is decidedly of the opinion that the merits of the fourth plan far outnumber those of all the others combined, among which are the elimination of additional overhead expense in the way of supervision and management; one heating plant, one laundry, and one infirmary for the sick; purchase of supplies to better advantage in larger quantities; the fact that the Home already owns abundant land on the present Home site for the additional building or buildings and the fact of having free tuition for all of the children in the schools of the city of Wichita. We, therefore, unhesitatingly recommend that this M.-. W.\ Grand Lodge direct and instruct that the money now collected as the first annual installment of said special assessment of five annual installments be paid over at once to the proper officer of the Kansas Masonic Home to be used toward construction of additional building or buildings on the west part of the Masonic Home grounds of similar plan and architectural design as the present Home building and that at the end of each succeeding year, when such subsequent Special Annual Assess-
476
February,
PROCEEDINGS OF THE
ments are paid to the Grand Lodge that they in like manner be promptly paid over to the proper officer of the Kansas Masonic Home for the completion of such additional building or buildings, and that the said Kansas Masonic Home be instructed and directed to procure suitable plans and specifications for such building or buildings and proceed with the construction thereof as rapidly as in their judgment may be deemed proper and advisable. Fraternally submitted, CHARLES A. LoucKS, ROBERT H . MONTGOMERY, HARVEY O . DAVIS,
Committee. R E P O R T OF C O M M I T T E E ON J U R I S P R U D E N C E .
W.-. WILLIAM L . HUGGINS, chairman, presented the following report, which, on motion, was adopted section by section, and as a whole. To The M.:W.: Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. oj Kansas: Your Committee on Jurisprudence, having had under consideration the various subjects submitted to it, begs leave to report as follows: COMMISSIONERS OF TRIALS, AND MASONIC TRIALS.
Your committee recommends the approval of the action of the Grand Master in the case of Samaria liodge No. 298, Wilson, vs. CHARLES F . TRENDLE. LODGES FAILING TO REPORT ACTION ON AMENDMENTS TO THE CONSTITUTION.
Your committee has had before them twenty-five of the twentyseven lodges who failed to take action within the proper time on the amendments to the Constitution, or who failed to make reports within the proper time to the Grand Secretary. Most of these lodges had excuses to offer as to why these reports were not mailed in, some of thern fairly reasonable if they had not been in violation of a specific law and if the action was merely one of convenience, but since they did not comply with the law, and because of the importance of the matter that was involved, your committee feels that definite punishment should be given them. In one case, that of Alta Vista Lodge No. 357, Alta Vista, the former Master and Secretary, supported by an affidavit of a third brother of the lodge, testified that they went to • gether to mail the report, within the specified time, and all three saw the letter placed in the United States mail, and we therefore recom-
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
477
mend that no action be taken against this lodge. We further recommend that the following lodges be suspended for thirty days: Havensville Lodge No. 34, Havensville. Nickerson Lodge No. 43, Nickerson. Troy Lodge No. 55. Troy. Frankfort Lodge No. 67, Frankfort. Solomon City Lodge No. 105, Solomon. Americus Lodge No. 109, Americus. Belle Plaine Lodge No. 173, Belle Plaine. Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 179, Kinsley. Henri Lodge No. 190, Tonganoxie. Lebanon Lodge No. 221, Scandia. Canopy Lodge No. 248, Grenola, Webb Lodge No. 275, Meade. Beulah Lodge No. 291, Bunker Hill. Gove City Lodge No. 302, Gove. Randall Lodge No. 304, Randall. Virginia Lodge No. 315, Savonburg. Coolidge Lodge No. 316, Coolidge. Norwich Lodge No. 319, Norwich. , Vermillion Lodge No. 320, Vermillion. Frederick Lodge No. 337, Frederick. Grandview Lodge No. 376, Bucklin. Hepler Lodge No. 398, Hepler. Haviland Lodge No. 409, Haviland. Selden Lodge No. 423, Selden. Bendena Lodge No. 440, Bendena. Satanta Lodge No. 446, Satanta. We, therefore, recommend that the Grand Secretary give such suspended lodges official notice of the action in this Grand Lodge under the Seal thereof, which notice shall be mailed to the Master by registered letter and shall become effective on the day following the date of the next regular Communication after the receipt of such notice. And at the expiration of the time of suspension the Master shall return said notice to the Grand Secretary with his report of compliance therewith endorsed thereon. As the Masters of two lodges, Canopy Lodge-No. 248, Grenola, and Hepler Lodge No. 398, Hepler, failed to answer or appear before the committee in response to the official summons sent them by the Grand Master, we recommend that the matter of the punishment of these brothers, as individuals, be referred to the incoming Grand Master for his attention and such action as he may think best. DISREGARD OF OFFICIAL COMMUNICATIONS.
Your committee recommends the approval of the action of the Grand Master with reference to Urbana Lodge No. 239 for failure to reply to the letters of the Grand Master and Grand Secretary.
478
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
REMOVAL OF LODGES.
Your committee recommends the approval of the action of the Grand Master .with reference to the removal of Huron Lodge No. 72, and Richmond Lodge No. 426, with the limitations placed thereon in each case. RULING.
Your committee recommends the approval of the following ruling .by the Grand Master: "When the vote taken by a lodge on a proposed amendment to the Constitution is a tie, the Master shall have one additional or casting vote." QUESTIONS.
Your committee recommends the approval of the answers of the Grand Master-to the following questions: Question 1. "Can a lodge legally confer the second or third degree on a brother at a Special Communication called in the afternoon, just twenty-eight days following the conferral of the preceding degree, which degree was conferred in the evening?" Answer: " N o . The degree cannot be legally conferred at that time as the statutory time (28 days) would not expire until the hour indicated by the minutes of the communication at which the preceding degree was conferred." Question 2. "Can a certificate of transfer be received by a lodge after the expiration of the ninety days, provided it was in the hands of the Secretary of the lodge to which it was to be presented, before the ninety days had expired?" Answer: " N o . The certificate of transfer, together with the petition, must be presented to the lodge before the expiration of the ninety days. The fact that the petition was in the hands of the Secretary had no bearing on the case, and therefore the action of the lodge in accepting the petition was illegal and the applicant must request his lodge to issue a new certificate." BONDING LODGE FUNDS.
Your committee recommends that the policy of the Grand Lodge securing and paying for the bonds for lodge funds be continued^for another year. We further recommend that during this year the Grand Master submit to the lodges for their action the question of continuing the bonding of lodge funds under these conditions, the Grand Lodge'to secure the bond and the cost thereof to be assessed pro rata on the several lodges according to the amounts securedjby the bond^for each lodge. DISCIPLINE.
Your committee recommends that the action of the .Grand Master be approved with reference to Fostoria Lodge No. 392. Your committee recommends the approval of the action of the Grand Master with reference to Landmark Lodge No. 218.
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LODGE
OF KANSAS.
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Your committee recommends the approval of the action of the Grand Master with reference to the removal of the Treasurer of Kiowa Lodge No. 29.3, of Greensburg. Your committee recommends the approval of the action of the Grand Master with reference to Kingsdow'n Lodge No. 447. Your committee recommends the approval of the action of the Grand Master with reference to Hiram Lodge No. 6S. Your committee recommends the approval of the action of the Grand Master with reference to Fidelity Lodge No. 106 and Hamilton Lodge No. 301. MEMBERS OF LATE SHAWNEE LODGE NO. 5 4 , SUBJECT TO SUSPENSION.
Your committee recommends that the following members of late Shawnee Lodge No. 54 be suspended because of their failure to pay their dues and make application for a Grand Secretary's Certificate: ALDEN, DELBERT M . ALDEN, WILLIS B . ANDERSON, JAMES F . BoscHULTE, AUGUST CARL, SAMUEL T . CURRY, CLYDE L . DAVIS, GEORGE L . FISHER, OTIS W . FRISBIE, GLENN H . GEYSELS, JOSEPH R . GILHAM, JOHN W . GILBERT, GEORGE W .
HAMILTON, HENRY J. H I T E , S. WESLEY HORNER, RAY L . LARSEN, CHRISTIAN H . LOWRY, CHESTER A. MELLON, HARRY E . MILLER, DEWEY OVERLEY, CHARLES M . PHOENIX, CHARLES T . SANDERS, JOHN W . SULLIVAN, H . BRADLEY VAN WINKLE, ARTHUR T .
CONFUSION OVER GRAND LODGE DUES.
Your committee recommends that the law be strictly enforced with reference to the payment of the Grand Lodge dues by the various lodges. APPEALS.
Your committee has further heard the appeal of the accuser, Brother R. CLAUDE YOUNG, of Arkansas City, Kansas, in the case of Crescent Lodge No. 133 vs. Brother ALBERT FAULCONER. We have carefully gone through the proceedings, the charges and specifications, have read practically all of the evidence offered by the accuser, have read the affidavits attached, the proceedings of the cases in the various courts of Cowley County, Kansas, and have heard the arguments of the accuser, and considered the findings of the Trial Commissioners. We cannot find any irregularity in the proceedings and find that the Commissioners were amply justified in the decision they rendered. We further failed to find any material evidence to substantiate the charges preferred. We therefore recommend that the appeal be denied and the decision of the Commissioners of Trials be approved, and the
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PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
costs assessed as provided in the decision of the Commissioners of Trials. Fraternally submitted, WILLIAM L . HUGGINS, ELRICK C. COLE, JOHN MCCULLAGH,
OTTO R . SOUDERS, GEORGE 0. POSTER, Committee.
ELECTION OP OFPICERS.
The hour having arrived for the election of Grand Officers, the M/. W.". Grand Master announced the following tellers: WILLIAM B . PENNY, N O . 80; EVERETT L . REMSBERG, No. 38; JOHN H . GILES, N O . 154; THOMAS STAUTH, NO. 222; WILLIAM HEYNEN, No. 190; RAYMOND A. N E V I N , N O . 35; GROVER C . URBANSKY, No. 52; FAIRFAX BARNES, N O . 63; THOMAS D . SHAW, N O . 73.
The election resulted in the selection of the following officers: R.-. W.'.GEORGE P . BEEZLEY R.'. W.'. JAY B . KIRK R.-. W.-.JOHN M. KINKEL W.". J. FORREST AYRES R.-. W.'. WILLIAM PRANK MARCH. M.'.Vv'.".ELMER F . STRAIN
Grand Master Girard. Deputy Grand Master.Tola. Grand Senior Warden Topeka. Grand Junior Warden Greenleaf. Grand Treasurer Lawrence. Grand Secretary Topeka.
PLACE OP M E E T I N G FOR 1930.
W.-. H U G H B . MCGKATH, Master of Orient Lodge No. 51, representing the Masonic Lodges of Topeka, extended a cordial invitation to the M.'. W.'. Grand Lodge to hold the next Annual Communication at Topeka. On motion, the invitation was accepted. P R E S E N T A T I O N OP J E W E L .
W.-. CHARLES G. WEST, on behalf of Emporia Lodge No. 12, Emporia, the home lodge of the Grand Master, presented M.-. W.". FERRIS M . H I L L with a beautiful Past Grand Master's jewel.
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LODGE OF KANSAS.
481
PROPOSED APRON AND J E W E L FOR GRAND SECRETARY EMERITUS.
M.-. W.-. FERRIS M . H I L L called the attention of the Grand Lodge to the new office created through the retirement of R.-. W.-. Brother ALBERT K . WILSON, making him Grand Secretary Emeritus, suggesting that he be provided with a suitable jewel and apron. A motion was then duly made and seconded by R.'. W.'. WILLIAM FRANK MARCH, Grand Treasurer, that such decorations be purchased by the Grand Lodge. Brother WILSON then offered some remarks, calling attention to his well known aversion to the wearing of decorations and while expressing his appreciation for the kind offer of the Grand Lodge he felt that he could not consistently accept this gift. Remarks by several of the brethren indicated that they were unwilling to withdraw the motion and finally it was adopted, with the understanding that the handling of this matter would be left with the Grand Secretary, M.-. W.-. Brother ELMER F. STRAIN. REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON FINANCE AND PROPERTY.
W.-. EARL T . PYLE, chairman, submitted the following report, which, on motion, was adopted: To The M:. W:. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: To this committee was referred that part of our Grand Master's address relative to Relief, and Donations; that part of Grand Secretary WILSON'S report relative to Donation to the Masonic Home, Special Assessments for the Masonic Home, Schedule " B " , Schedule " C " , and Cash Accounts; that part of Grand Secretary STRAIN'S report relative to Estimated Revenue and Expenses for the Ensuing Year, Schedule " A " , Schedule " B " , and Cash Account. RETJEF.
The whole-hearted manner in which our Grand Master extended relief to our brethren of Florida, Puerto Rico, and Ottawa Lodge No. 18, and his instructions relative to the distribution of these donations, are heartily approved by this committee.
482
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
DONATIONS.
Nine Thousand Dollars ($9,000.00) of the amount authorized at the last Annual Communication for Masonic Home improvements has been turned over t o the Secretary of the Home as shown in the address of our Grand Master, the final report of Grand Secretary WILSON and the report of the Grand Treasurer. SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS FOR THE MASONIC HOME.
Eighty-three thousand five hundred seventy-four dollars ($83,574.00) has been collected by special assessment of one dollar ($1.00) for each member shown on the rolls of the lodges in their annual reports for the year 1928, and the amount is in the hands of our Grand Treasurer t o the credit of the General Fund, subject to the action of the Grand Lodge. An examination and audit of the accounts of the Grand Lodge has been made by this committee. All funds have been properly accounted for as shown by the report of the Grand Treasurer and the financial exhibits in the final report of Grand Secretary WILSON, and the report of Grand Secretary STRAIN. At t h e close of the accounts R.'. W.'. WILLIAM FRANK
MARCH,
Grand Treasurer, had t o his credit in the Merchants National Bank, of Lawrence, Kansas, one hundred twenty-seven thousand nine hundred twenty-three dollars and twelve cents ($127,923.12), as shown by the records of the Bank and certified to by F . C. WHIPPLE, VicePresident and Cashier. The certificate of deposit is attached hereto, made a part of this report, and reads as follows: MERCHANT.S NATIONAL
B.ANK.
LAWRENCE, KANSAS, February 11, 1929.
This is to certify, That there is in this bank today, to the credit of W. F . MARCH, Grand Treasurer, A. F . & A. M., the sum of one hundred twenty-seven thousand nine hundred twenty-three dollars and twelve cents ($127,923.12). (Signed) F.
(Seal.)
C. W H I P P L E ,
Vice-President and Cashier.
The amount on hand includes eighty-three thousand five hundred seventy-four dollars ($83,574.00) Masonic Home Improvement Fund not yet transferred to the Home Board, and six thousand five hundred seventy-six dollars and thirty-nine cents ($6,576.39) Charity Fimd, leaving a balance in the General Fund of thirty-seven thousand nine hundred seventy-two dollars and seventy-three cents ($37,972.73), which, together with Bond investments of thirty-five hundred dollars ($3,500.00) makes available for Grand Lodge expenditures, forty-one thousand four hundred seventy-two dollars seventy-three cents ($41,472.73).
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
483
BONDS. Bonds amounting to three thousand five hundred dollars ($3,500.00) with all unmatured interest coupons attached are in the hands of the Grand Treasurer, and were inspected by the committee. In accordance with action taken at the last Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge, the Grand Treasurer delivered U. S. Fourth Liberty Loan Bonds amounting to five thousand dollars ($5,000.00), and Board of Education, City of Larned Bonds, amounting to four thousand dollars ($4,000.00) to the Secretary of the Kansas Masonic Home, for Masonic Home improvements, and holds receipt dated April 4, 1928, signed by THOMAS G . PITCH, Secretary, for the same. A recapitulation of the Bond Account and a complete list of all bonds on hand will be found in the report of the Grand Treasurer. Three hundred sixteen dollars and twenty-five cents ($316.25) interest on bond investment, and five hundred three dollars and seventy cents ($503.70) interest on daily balances accrued, and was properly accounted for. REVENUE AND EXPENSES.
Revenue. The estimated revenue from all sources for the ensuing year is
$48,614 00
Expenses. We recommend appropriations for expenses as follows: Assistant Grand Secretary Committee allowance (By-Law 55) Expenses Grand Lodge Communication Expenses and per diem of Lecturer Grand Master's apron Grand Master's contingent fund Grand Master's salary Grand Treasurer's bond premium Grand Secretary's bond premium .' Grand Treasurer's salary Grand Secretary's salary Grand Secretary's incidentals Grand Secretary Emeritus Grand Secretary Emeritus incidentals Grand Officers' portraits Historical Registry and Abstract Library, furniture, binding, etc Lodge bond premium Mileage to representatives (By-Law 57) Mileage and Expenses (By-Laws 55 and 56) Minor salaries (By-Law 54) OfBce and Library Building
$ 3,600 375 600 1,600 61 1,500 800 87 10 200 3,000 1,200 3,000 500 50 600 800 2,000 3,032 1,439 180 2,500
00 00 00 00 50 00 00 50 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 00 99 62 00 00
484
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
Per Diem of Committee on Trials and Punishments $ 900 00 Printing Annual Proceedings 4,500 00 Printing and Binding Grand Lodge Laws 4,800 00 Postage and express 1,000 00 Private Secretary to Grand Master 600 00 Salary Chairman Committee on Correspondence (By-Law 55) 500 00 Stationery and printing 1,000 00 Stenographic and clerical services 3,000 00 Taxes 2,500 00 PROPERTV.
The Grand Lodge property is in the usual excellent condition. All property of loidges which have had their charters revoked has been properly disposed of according to law. Fraternally submitted, EARL T . PYLE, MOSES H . COLE, WILLIAM B . PENNY,
CHARLES E . KESLER, GEORGE W . MCCLELLAND, Committee.
1928 29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
485
INSTALLATION.
M.-.W.-.CHARLES N . FOWLER, assisted by M.-.W.-.
as Grand Marshal, duly installed the following Grand Officers: JOHN W . NEILSON,
M.-.W.-. G E O R G E F . B B E Z L E Y Grand Girard Lodge No. 93, Girard. R.-. W.-. J A Y B . K I K K Deputy Grand lola Lodge No. 38, lola. R.-. W.-. J O H N M . K I N K B L . G r a n d Senior Reno Lodge No. 140 (residence, Topeka). R.-.-W.-. J . F O R R E S T A Y R E S Grand Junior Greenleaf Lodge No. 232, Greenleaf.
Master Master Warden Warden
R.-. W.-. W I L L I A M F R A N K M A R C H
Grand Treasurer
Acacia Lodge No. 9, Lawrence. M.-.W.-. E L M E R F . S T R A I N Orient Lodge No. 51, Topelca.
Grand Secretary
The M.-.W.-.Grand Master announced the following appointive Grand Officers: Bro. and Rev. F R E D E . BROOKS
Grand
Chaplain
Smithton Lodge No. 1, Highland (residence, Topelca). W.-. G E O R G E 0 . F O S T E R G r a n d Senior D e a c o n Lawrence Lodge No. 6, I^awrence. W.-. P A U L B . H O F F M A N N Grand Junior Deacon Holyrood Lodge No. 343, Holyrood. W.-. R U S S E L L P . R E E D E R . .
Grand Marshal
Hancoclc Lodge No. 311, Ft. Leavenworth. W.-. P A U L M A D D E N G r a n d Sword B e a r e r Auburn Lodge No. 32, Auburn. W.-. E R N E S T C . F R I E S E N G r a n d Senior S t e w a r d Hutchinson Lodge No. 445, Hutchinson. W.-. D A V I D C . K A Y Grand Junior Steward . Morland Lodge No. 414, Morland. W.-. H O M E R T . H A R D E N
Grand Pursuivant
Wichita Lodge No. 99, Wichita. W.-. W . A M E R B U R N E T T
Mountain Slope Lodge No. 186, Oberlin.
Grand Tyler
486
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
STANDING COMMITTEES.
The M.'. W.'. Grand Master announced the appointment of the following committees for the.ensuing, year: On Credentials.—ROBERT H . MONTGOMERY, N O . 63, Oswego; GUY W . BROWN, NO. 145, Beloit; ROY G . SHEARER, NO.- 98, Abilene; RICHARD W . EVANS, N O . 222, Dodge City; RAYMOND A. NEVIN, No. 35, Hiawatha. On Reports of Grand Officers.—FERRIS M . HILL, NO. 12, Emporia; LuciAN L. CONSTANT, N O . 173, Belle Plaine; JAMES H . BEEGLE, No. 94, Neodesha; EDGAR T . FOSTER, N O . 212, Colony; FRANK E . DAVIS, No. 3, (residence, Kansas City, Mo.) On Finance.—PHILIP EUGENE STOTLER; NO. 3, (residence. Bethel); MOSES H . COLE, NO. 206, Harper; HENRY L . GAMES, NO. 269, Conway Springs; EDGAR W . INGRAM, N O . 433, Wichita; JAMES M . JACOBY, No. 107, Independence. On Jurisprudence.—ELRICK C . COLE, NO. i 5 . Great Bend; JOHN MCCULLAGH, N O . 194, Galena; OTTO R . SOUDERS, NO. .99, Wichita; JOHN W . NEILSON, N O . 113, Concordia; HARRY E . WALTER, N O . 309,
Syracuse. On Trials and Punishments.—J. FORREST AYRES, No. 232, Greenleaf; JAY B . KIRK, No. 38, lola; JAMES A. CASSLER, No. 272, McPherson; FRANK D . SPERRY, NO. 146, Ellsworth; RoscoE E. PETERSON, No. 167, Larned. On Chartered Lodges and Lodges Tl. D.—CT.ARRNOR .J. WRLLS; No. 150, Wellington; PAUL M . MARTIN, NO. 1, Highland; JOSEPH G . HART, NO. 289, Lakin. On General Purposes.—CHARLES
A. LOUCKS, N O . 289, Lakin;
JOHN W . NEILSON, N O . 113, Concordia;
RICHARD E . BIRD, N O . 303,
Wichita. On Investigation of Records and Property.—CHARLES N . FOWLER, NO. 60, Salina; ALBERT K . WILSON, NO. 51, Topeka;. PAUL A. LANGE, No. 9, Lawrence. .. On Correspondence.—ALBERT K . WILSON, No. 51, Topeka. On Necrology.—CARL OSCAR PINGRY, No. 187, Pittsburg. SPECIAL COMMITTEES. On Revision of Laws.—ALBERT K . WILSON, N O . 51, Topeka; ELRICK C . COLE. No. 15, Great Bend. On History of Grand Lodge.—ALBERT K . WILSON, NO. 51, Topeka.
GRAND
1928-29.
LODGE
OF
487
KANSAS.
VOTE OF THANKS.
R.-. W.-. JOHN M . K I N K E L moved that a vote of thanks be extended the brethren of Wichita for the courtesies shown. Motion was adopted. READING OF JOURNAL. The journal was then read by Brother^HERBERT SMITH, Albert Pike Lodge No. 303, official stenographer, and approved. CLOSING CEREMONIES. The M.-.W.-. Grand Master then closed|The M.-.W.-. Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas in Ample Form.
^ ^ - ^ ^^wa^ Grand Master.
ATTEST:
^^^p'ynjeA^
t/vt/ca^t^'yX^ Grand Secretary.
488
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
MASONIC DISTRICTS, AND LIST OF DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTERS FOR 1929.
District No. District No. District No.
1 2 3
District No. 4 District No. District No. District No.
5 6 7
JOSEPH L . ALLEN RAYMOND A. N E V I N BENJAMIN F . H E I S
*THOMAS B . W E B B HERBERT E . JULIEN JABEZ 0 . RANKIN CHARLES F . TRINKLB
District No. 8
CLAUD F . YOUNG
District District District District District District
IRVIN G . SIMMONS JOHN F . WYATT CHARLES F . M C G H E E ERNEST WILDE CLARENCE E . BIRCH MILTON E . MAYER
No. No. No. No. No. No.
9 10 11, 12 13 14
District No. 15 District District District District District District
No. No. No. No. No. No.
16 17 18 19 20 21..
ROY W . COX WILLIAM H . POWELL WILLIAM R . GRAHAM ARTHUR E . D U M A R S PAUL W.- KIRKPATRICK OTTO H . ROMMEL *SCOTT E . KELSEY
District No. 22
GEORGE H. HOERMAN
District District District District
E. GLENN RUWIBON FREDRICK C . RUSTENBACH FRANK A. BLAKSLBE HOMER L . WEBER
No. No. No. No.
23 24 25 26
Highland Hiawatha Leavenworth
Kansas City Olathe Paola LaCygne
Fort Scott Garnett Galena Centralia Farmington Lawrence Soldier
Moran Chanute Sedan Coffeyville Marysville Waterville Topeka
Lyndon Gridley Fredonia Manhattan Clifton
District No. 27
WILLIAM B . PENNY
Cottonwood Falls
District No. 28 District No. 29
HOLLY M . MILLER EDGAR L . GANN
Howard Burden
District No. 30 District District District District District District District District District District District
No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No.
31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41
THOMAS E. STAFFORD IVAN D . LYON VICTOR L . OWENS HARRY G . VETTBR WILLIAM H . ANDERSON ARTHUR J. STARR *ELMER C . BEEZLEY HAROLD A. HAMMOND ORRIN W , STORY FRANK A. SLACK JONATHAN SCHMITTER EDWARD GRAGG
Cuba Lincoln Chapman Moundridge Rosalia Peabody Wichita Caldwell Lebanon Beloit Gypsum Turon
1928-29.
Distri ct Distr: ct Distri ct Distr: ct Distr ct Distr ct Distr: ct Distr ct Distr: ct Distri ct Distr: ct Distri ct Distr ct Distri ct Distr: ct Distr ct Distr ct Distr ct Distr: ct Distr ct Distri ct Distr: ct Distri ct Distr ct Distr: ct Distr: ct Distri ct Distr: ct Distr ct Distr ct Distr ct Distri ct Distr: ct Distri ct Distr: ct
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
489
No. 42 No. 43 No. 44
FRANK M . YEOMAN L E W I S G . JENNINGS JOHN J! RECHT
Kingman Anthony Norton
No. 45
RICHARD L . MOORE
No. 46
WILLIAM E . DILLINGER
No. 47
PASCHAL W . LUNDY
No. No. No. No. No. No.
48 49 50 51 52 53
WARREN E . N E E D WILLIAM E . MURRAY SOLON E . BURGESS BENJAMIN H . FLYR JULIA_N W . WELLS PAUL BROWN
Geneseo Girard Larned Oakley Deerfield Atwood
No. 54 No. 55
ROY BAIRD LEVBKETT G . WOLFE
Morland Smith Center
Glen Elder Wa-Keeney
Ness City
No. 56
CARL F . HERTLEIN
No. 57 No. 58
CoRWiN H. MCMAHAN WiLLARD E . FERRBLL
Pratt
No. 59 No. 60
JOHN B . FLEMING :BARLUS ROMSTEDT
Hamilton Ottawa
No. 61
JOHN M . JOHNSON
Council Grove
No. 62 No. 63
ALVA L . SOICE ELMER S . NANCE
Bellefont Tribune
....Staflord Oswego
No. 64
HERBERT A. MURRAY
Valley Falls
No. 65 No. 66
NAPOLEON P. MARCOUX JOHN E. GILLBTT.,
Havensville Washington
No. 67
FAY S. FRENCH
No. No. No. No. No. No. No,
PAUL B . HOFFMANN LAURENCE A. PEACOCK ALEX R . WILSON ARTHUR A. HAMILL AARON E . STOVALL RICHARD E . THOES HERBERT W . STUBBS
68 69 70 71 72 73 74
No. 75 No. 76
JAMBS H . TRICE *FRANK MCDOUGALL SPECIAL ADDRESSES.
No. 4. 21 36 76
*Postoffee Addresses. 1125 Cleveland Ave. 1334 Arter. Room 7, Beacon Bldg. 1629 So. 29th St.
Jamestown Holyrood Protection '.....Meade Colby Rossville Alma Ulysses
Medicine Lodge Kansas City
490
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
LIST OF DISTRICTS DISTRICT N O
Location. White Cloud Highland Troy Wathena Severance Bendena
1.
Name. White Clovid Smitbton Troy Wathena Severance Bendena
DISTRICT N O . 8.
No. 78 1 55 64 313 440
DISTRICT N O . 2.
Hiawatha Hamlin Morrill Powhattan Horton Sabetha Robinson
Hiawatha Hamlin Morrill Powhattan Horton Sabetha Robinson
35 .185 373 363 326 162 159
DISTRICT N O . 3.
Leavenworth Leavenworth .... 2 Leavenworth King Solomon.... 10 Leavenworth Hiram 68 Ft. Leavenworth ..Hancock 311 Lansing Nine Mile 49 Boling Boling 365 Easton Easton 45 Potter Kickapoo 4 DISTRICT N O . 4.
Kansas City Wyandotte 3 Kansas City Armourdale 271 Kansas City Kaw 272 Kansas City *B. E. Sherman..369 Kansas City West Gate., , ,4.?R Bonner Springs Bonner Springs 366 Wliite Church Delaware 96 Piper Piper 385 "Roger E. Sherman. DISTRICT N O . 5.
Olathe Gardner Edgerton Lenexa Spring Hill Stanley
Olathe Gardner Palestine Lenexa Spring Hill Stanley
19 65 127 135 56 444
Peace Paola Osage Valley Equity LaCygne Eureka Mound City Lotus ..Xenia Parker
No. ..108 .. 8 .. 92 ..216 ..398 ..210 .. 28 115 268
DISTRICT N O . 9.
T;ane 339 Greel6y 211 Delphian 44 Avon 305 Olive Branch ....212 Kincaid 338 Richmond 426
DISTRICT N O .
Scammon Columbus Galena Baxter Springs Weir
10
Scammon Prudence Galena Baxter Black Diamond
DISTRICT N O .
Whiting Netawaka Wetmore Centralia Corning Goff
DISTRICT N O .
243 37 24 131 61 88 33 286 47 341
Circleville Holton Soldier Mayetta Hoyt Denlson
;
31 48 116 5 158 72
13.
Lawrence Acacia De Soto Lin wood Doric Palmyra Henri Perry Lecompton
DISTRICT N O .
250 130 53 89 13 430
12.
Arcana Mackey Muscotah Washington Active Huron DISTRICT N O .
351 100 194 71 274
11.
Whiting Polar Star Wetmore Home Nemaha Goff
Doniphan EfBngham Muscotah Atchison Atchison Huron
DISTRICT N O . 7.
LaCygne Pleasanton Mound City Blue Moimd Xenia Parker
Name. Memphis Rising Sun.. Devon Hiattville Hepler Fulton Eldora Excelsior Bourbon
Lane Greeley Garnett Westphalia Colony Kincaid Richmond
Lawrence Lawrence De Soto Linwood Eudora Baldwin Tonganoxie Perry Lecompton
DISTRICT N O . 6.
Louisburg Paola Osawatomle Fontana
• Location. Garland Fort Scott Devon Hiattville Hepler Fulton Mapleton Uniontown Bronson
6 9 40 241 83 23 190 415 420
14.
Circleville Holton Soldier Mayetta Hoyt Denison
20 42 240 393 327 372
GRAND
1928-29.
DISTRICT N O .
Location. Moran La Harpe lola Humboldt Savonburg Erie Urbana Chanute Chanute Thayer
DISTRICT N O .
Sedan Elgin Cedar Vale
DISTRICT No.
..345 .102 ..324 ..386 107 137 132
19.
Marysville Oketo Beattie.... Summerfleld A.\tell Seneca Oneida
DISTRICT N O .
Waterville Blue Rapids Irving Frankfort Vermillion
136 350 355
18.
Edna ;........Edna Coffey ville Keystone.. Caney Caney Tyro Tyro Independence Fortitude Cherryvale Cherryvale Elk City Carson Marysville Oketo Beattie Summerfleld Axtell Seneca Oneida
76 239 103 416 149
17.
Vesper Olive Chautauqua
DISTRICT N O .
No. 245 325 38 29 315
16.
Erie Urbana Cedar King David Thayer
91 25 259 354 234 39 323
20.
Sutton Blue Rapids Blue Valley Frankfort Vermillion
85 169 112 67 320
DISTRICT N O . 21.
Topeka Topeka Topeka Auburn Dover Wakarusa Maple Hill
Topeka Orient Siloam Auburn Dover Wakarusa Maple Hill
DISTRICT N O .
Lyndon Osage City...!..: Burlingame Carbondale Overbrook Scranton
17 51 225 32 138 402 370
Location. Yates Center Neosho Falls Le Roy Gridley Burlington
Name. Gilead Tuscan Neosho Hebron Burlington
DISTRICT N O .
Fredonia New Albany Fall River Coyville Neodesha Altoona Benedict Buffalo
No. 144 82 27 314 66
24.
Constellation.... 95 New Albany 81 Greenwood 163 Coyville 57 Harmony 94 Altoona 118 Benedict 403 Buffalo 379
DISTRICT N O . 25.
Leonard ville Wamego Manhattan Riley Randolph
Garfield Wamego Lafayette Ashlar Farmers
DISTRICT N O .
Clifton Clay Center Green Oak Hill Wakefield
235 75 16 344 166
26.
Clifton Clay Center Highland Oak Hill Wakefield
122 134 296 334 396
DISTRICT N O . 27.
Emporia Emporia 12 Americus Americus.... 109 Hartford Hartford 193 Saflordville Saffordville........395 CottonVoodFalls.Zeredatha 80 Lebo Lebo 152 Allen Allen 335 DISTRICT N O .
Howard Elk Falls Longton Moline Grenola
28.
Hope Meridian Longton Moline Canopy DISTRICT N O .
Winfleld Burden Dexter : Maple City Arkansas City
155 126 26 267 248
29.
Winfleld Clinton Dexter Maple City Crescent
110 233 156 342 133
DISTRICT N O . 30.
22.
Euclid Signal Corinthian Carbondale Ridgeway Scranton
491
KANSAS. DISTRICT N O . 23.
15.
Name. Marmaton La Harpe lola Pacific Virginia
DISTRICT N O .
LODGE OF
101 141 79 70 62 407
Republic Scandia Belleville Narka Cuba Munden
Republic Lebanon BelleviUe Narka Cuba Munden
123 221 129 349 362 128
492
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
DISTRICT NO. 31.
Location. Lincoln Sylvan Grove Lucas Luray Natoma Plainville Codell
DISTRICT N O .
Name. No. Lincoln 154 Sylvan Grove....359 Blue Hill 19S Luray 153 Natoma 390 Paradise 290 Codell 418
DISTRICT N O .
Benevolent OS Bennington 180 Antiquity 280 Enterprise 437 Union 7 Salina 60 Solomon City....105
Randall Jewell Mankato Burr Oak Formoso Esbon Lebanon
Canton Galva McPherson Wlndom Lindsborg Moundridge Marquette
Canton Galva ; McPherson Windora Lindsborg Moundridge Marquette
DISTRICT N O .
Augusta Beaumont Douglass Leon ^-.i ^-'yj^tt,y.L\j Towanda Rosalia Latham
34.
Mystic Tie Beaumont Douglass .loppa x-atiiiusi A Towanda Rosalia Latham
DISTRICT No.
Newton Halstead Peabody Florence Burrton
DISTRICT NO.
74 439 151 223 yV 30 434 401
35.
Newton Halstead Halcyon Advance Burrton
Wichita. Wichita Wichita •Wichita Mulvane Clearwater Valley Center Cheney Mount Hope Sedgwick
197 251 172 276 397 346 353
142 46 120 114 182
36.
Sunflower 86 Wichita 99 Albert Pike 303 BestorG.Brown 433 Mulvane 201 Unity 273 A'alley Center....364 Morton 258 Mount Hope 238 Sedgwick 139
Minneapolis Barnard Delphos Glasco Simpson Beloit Scottsville
41.
299 358 140 445 208 43 391
42.
Ninnescah 230 Norwich 319 Spivey 347 Zenda 378 Pretty Prairie....42S Cunningham 427
DISTRICT N O .
Anthony Harper Attica Waldron Freeport Bluff City
40.
Cable Turon Reno Hutchinson Friendship Nickerson Sylvia
DISTRICT N O .
Kingman Norwich Spivey Zenda Pretty Prairie Cunningham
143 59 202 292 214 145 249
Gypsum City....328 Kansas 307 Delavan 375 Cyrus 288 White City 380 Center 147 Burdick 4:^9
DISTRICT No.
Arlington Turon Hutchinson Hutchinson Haven Nickerson Sylvia
304 11 87 178 336 228 287
39.
Minneapolis Saltville Delphos Glasco Sincerity Mt. "Vernon Scottsville
DISTRICT N O .
Gypsum Herington Delavan Hope White City Marion Burdiok
No. 173 150 !..157 165 203 255 269 285
38.
Randall Jewell Mankato Burr Oak Formoso Salem Oak DISTRICT NO.
DISTRICT NO. 33.
37.
Location. Name. Belle Plaine Belle Plaine Wellington Wellington South Haven Haven Oxford Oxford Caldwell Sumner Milan Milan Conway Springs....Mistletoe Argonia Argonia
DISTRICT NO. 32.
Abilene Bennington Chapman Enterprise Junction City Salina Solomon
February,
43.
Anthony Harper Attica Waldron Freeport Stohrville
200 206 262 377 389 368
GBAND
1928-29:
DISTRICT N O .
Location. Almcna L o n g Island Norton Norcatur Oberlin Jennings Lenora
NO.
DISTRICT N O .
Russell Hays Ellis B u n k e r Hill Wa-Keeney
47.
48.
Geneseo 361 Frederick 337 C o r n e r Stone....219 Alden 308 Sterling 171 Royal 192 Chase 247
DISTRICT ,NO.
Girard Cherokee Pittsburg Mulberry Arcadia Arma Walnut Farlington
DISTRICT N O .
DISTRICT N O .
15 167 217 331 424
Dighton Scott C i t y Leoti Horace
56.
283 222 388 413 282 431 447
58.
Barney Anthem... Leoti Horace DISTRICT N O .
293 2<i5 332 376 399 409 394
57.
Preston St. B e r n a r d Spearville Ensign Alpha Minneola Kingsdown
DISTRICT N O .
Eureka Madison Severy Hamilton Climax Toronto
281 348 414
55.
Kiowa .' Kilwinning Rob Morris G r a n d View Mulhnville Haviland .....Coats
DISTRICT N O .
Cimarron Dodge.City Spearvllle Ensign Jetmore Minneola Kingsdown
51.
54.
Gaylord 183 Kir win 175 Logan 264 Western S t a r ....174 Phillipsburg 184 Kensington 405
DISTRICT N O .
Grcensburg Pratt Preston Bucklin Mullinville Haviland Coats
93 119 187 201 329 408 229 :.124
Oakley Oakley 253 Wallace Wallace 318 Gove Gove C i t y 302 Grainfleld Gralnfleld 381 Grinnell Grinnell 448 Quinter Quinter 410 Siiaron Springs.!....Sharon Springs..417
53.
Millbrook Hoxie Morland
Gaylord Kirwin Logan Smith Center Phillipsburg Kensington
No. 316 309 289 246 432
Atwood 104 McDonald 383 Saint F r a n c i s ...404
DISTRICT N O .
Hill C i t y Hoxie Morland
52.
Name. Coolidge Syracuse Emerald Tyrian Deerfleld
DISTRICT N O .
Atwood McDonald Saint Francis
50.
G r e a t Bend Larned Elhnwood Hoisington Claflin
DISTRICT N O .
Location. Coolidge Syracuse Lakin G a r d e n City Deerfleld
49.
Girard Cherokee Pittsburg Mulberry Arcadia Arma Vulcan Godfrey
G r e a t Bend Larned Ellin wood Hoisington Claflln
177 195 297 291 148
L a Crosse 330 McCracken 58 Walnut City 215 W a l n u t Valley ..191
DISTRICT N O .
Geneseo Frederick Little River Alden Sterling Lyons Chase
294 125 204 160 207 189
46.
Russell Hays Apollo Beulali Wa-Keeney
DISTRICT N O .
L a Crosse McCracken R u s h Center Ness C i t y
DISTRICT N O .
No. 310 231 199 317 186 360 181
45.
Glen Elder Cawker City Downs Saqui Occidental , Newahcuba...-
493
KANSAS.
44.
Name. Naphtall L o n g Island Norton Norcatur M o u n t a i n Slope Jennings Lenora .'
DISTRICT
Glen Elder Cawker City Downs Osborne Alton Stockton
LODGE OF
.279 ..284 .340 .352
59.
Fidelity Madison Twin Grove Hamilton Climax Woodson
100 196 213 301 411 121
494
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
DISTRICT N O . 60.
Location. Wellsville Ottawa Pomona Melvem Williamsburg Waverly Quenemo
Name. WellsviUe Ottawa McKinley Melvem Anchor Waverly Quenemo
No. 356 18 41 22 224 244 270
DISTRICT N O . 61.
Council Grove Parkerville Alta Vista Dwight Wilsey
Council Grove.. 36 Parkerville 168 Alta Vista 357 Dwight 374 Wilsey 382
DISTRICT N O . 62.
Lewis Stafford St. John Macksville Kinsley
Lewis Stafford Ionic Macksville Mt. Moriah
220 252 254 371 179
DISTRICT N O . 63.
Oswego Altamont Chetopa Parsons Mound Valley McCune
Adams Altamont.. Chetopa Parsons Landmark Temple
. 63 . 69 . 73 .117 218 237
February,
DISTRICT N O . 68.
Location. Ellsworth Brookville Wilson Holyrood
;
Name. Ellsworth Brookville Samaria Holyrood
DISTRICT No.
Ashland Coldwater Protection Wilmore
No. 146 209 298 343
69.
Ashland Comanche Protection Wilmore
277 295 384 412
DISTRICT N O . 70.
Meade Liberal Plains
Webb Fargo Plains
.275 .300 ..367
DISTRICT N O . 71.
Colby Goodland Selden Rexford Kanorado
St. Thomas Goodland Selden Rexford Kanorado
306 321 423 442 443
DISTRICT N O . 72.
Silver Lake Lake 50 St. Marys Pottawatomie.... 52 Topeka (North)....Golden Rule 90 Rossville Hesperian Ill Delia Delia 419
DISTRICT N O . 64.
Oskaloosa Volley Falls Winchester Meriden McLouth Nortonville
Oskaloosa .'....Yalioy Falls Jefferson Meriden Lyra Mt. Zion
14 21 84 236 256 266
DISTRICT N O . 65
Havensville Onaga Westmoreland Emmett Fostoria
Havensville 34 Onaga 188 Westmoreland..257 Emmett 387 Fostoria 392
DISTRICT N O . 73.
Eskridge HarveyvlUe
Eminence Harveyville
DISTRICT N O .
Sublette Hugoton Elkhart Ulysses Johnson Satan ta
205 421
74.
Santa Fe Hugoton Elkhart Ulysses Johnson Satan ta
312 406 422 435 441 446
DISTRICT N O . 75. DISTRICT N O . 66.
Washington Linn Haddam Greenleaf.
Frontier Fraternal.. Dirigo Greenleaf..
.104 ..170 ..226 ..232
DISTRICT N O . 67.
Concordia Clyde Jamestown Miltonvale
St. John's 113 Prairie Queen....176 Jamestown 227 Mil ton vale 242
Medicine Lodge ....Delta 77 Lake City Medicine Valley260 Hazelton Charity 263 Kiowa Cosmos 278 DISTRICT N O .
Kansas City Kansas City Overland Park Turner
76.
Ben Hur 322 Rosedale 333 Overland Park..436 Tufner 425
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511
512
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
COMPLETE SUMMARY FOR 1928.
Number of lodges working under charter, 1928
447
Number of lodges chartered
0
Melody Lodge No. 400 consolidated with Ottawa Lodge No. 18....^^ Number of lodges working under charter, 1929
447 1
..446
Number members December 31, 1927
83,401
Increase. Number initiated
3,003
Number passed
2,765
Number raised
2,698
Number admitted
728
Number restored
177
Number omitted last report
85=3,688 Decrease.
Number dimitted
872
Number died
1,040
Number suspended
1,288
Number expelled Number members Shawnee Lodge No. 54 Number members White Water Lodge U. D Net gain Number members December 31, 1928
15 133 33=3,381 307 83,708
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
513
EXPELLED, 1928. Wyandotte Lodge No. 3.—WILLIAM A. FARMER, Jan. 20; CHARLES 0 . WHERRELL, Jan. 20; CYRUS T . HAWKEY, July 6. Topeka Lodge No. I T . ^ C H A R L E S F. HOLMAN, Aug. 1. Lake Lodge No. 50.—ROBERT H . ALEXANDER, April 5. Orient Lodge No. 51.—CARL R . WHITE, Feb. 29; CHARLES E . WOOD,
April 6. Salina Lodge No. 60.—ALLEN D . SURRELL, Sept. 17. Hiram Lodge No. 68.—JOHN A. CARRE, Feb. 24.
Fidelity Lodge No. 106.—IVAN M . HAET, Sept. 18. Reno Lodge No. 140.—KANSAS H . NEGLEY, Aug. 2.
Mount Moriah Lodge No. 179.—HARRY A. OFFERLE, Feb. 14. Royal Lodge No. 192.—MAURICE L . PATTERSON, April 5. Hartford Lodge No. 193.—JUSTIN W . KERBY, Dec. 21. Oak Hill Lodge No, 334.—FRED C . WENDT, Nov. 19. Holyrood Lodge No. 343.—CHARLES PARKHURST, Oct. 2.
SUSPENDED FOR UNMASONIC CONDUCT, 1928. Eldora Lodge No. 28.—ELVA CANNON, Feb. 18. Burlington Lodge No. 66.—ABRAM C . KEEVER, Dec. 10. Hiram Lodge No. 68.—JOSEPH NOVOTNY, Dec. 20. Doric Lodge No. 83.—IRWIN H . PIPES, Nov. 13. Marysville Lodge No. 91.—GEOKGB T . MOHRBACHER, Feb. 29. Crescent Lodge No. 133.—HAROLD N . FOUNTAIN, June 20.
Mount Vernon Lodge No. 145.—FLOYD HYMAN, Aug. 6.
23 59 71
69 357 207 118 109 200 329 285 133 299 408 277 5 158 262 164 32 74 234
98 308 335 161
No.
Mystic Tie Axtell . ...
Waslilngton
Alta Vista
Allen
Name of Lodge.
Saltvllle Baxter Springs.. Baxter
Arkansas City....
Location.
Cherokee
Crawford
Crawford
Wabaunsee....
Lyon Wabaunsee...
Dickinson
County.
Lloyd B. Mitchell
Otto H. Lohir Edwin O. Thorn
*ScuyIer C; Wliite
- Masters.
1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Monday
1st and 3d Tuesday
Henry F. McCullough
Frank A. Werner
•Walter Hoy 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Wednesday .... William L. Bearley
2d and 4th Monday 2d and 4th Thursday
1st and 3d Wednesday ....
1st and 3d Tuesday
1st and 3d Saturday , 2d and 4tli Tuesday
1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday
Stated Communications.
Hewit Taylor. Thomas E. McCurry. Floyd L. Bumgarner.
Roy G. Shearer. Sherman W. Peters. Frank J. St. Bonnett. Jerry B. Fields. Henry S. P. Bevans. Clarence H. Kessler. John M. Hyde. Harry R. Markham. Charles N. Converse. tNova H. Brown. Lewis G. Jennings. Michael Gutman. William R. Hanna. Harry L. Burnett. Arthur B. Eliot. John Short. Claude T. Lucas. tWilliam M. Tlilstle. tWerner B. Levin. MarcelUis W. Short. Silas R. Horton. Carl H. Moore. Edwin C. McCray. William M. Berry.
Secretaries.
NAMES OF LODGES, MASTERS AND SECRETARIES FOR THE YEAR ENDING DECEMBER 31,1929.
B
-J
f^
o
C/3,
C)
t) >
Pi
o
13 O
103 416
355 89
203 324 197 70 125
233 429 79 66 178 182
209 376 379
360 268
368 3G5
439 173 129 145 440 403 180
Robert Clark. Cliarles E. Flautt. Charles V. Evans. Fred Oberle, Jr. Claude W. Simpson. Edgar J. Clark. Howard F. Hightower. Guy S. Jeffers. William H. Powell. Leonard L. Fislier James R. Harris Stanley W. Smith *C. Walter Wehrle Isaae C. Smith Newton A. Barger Charles F. McGhee... Everett R. Lloyd Oliver C. Puller
1st and 3d Thursday Sumner Montgomery.. 2d and 4th Tuesday McPherson.... 1st and 3d Tuesday 2d and 4th Saturday Carbondale 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Cawker City.. .. Mitchell Chautauqua.. 1st and 3d Tuesday ChautauQua. 1st and 3d Monday........ Nemaha 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Neosho 1st and 3d Monday Neosho King David
Carbondale Cawker City Cedar "Vale
Caldwell
Charles A. Harry. James W. Wasson. William A. Crews. Harry C. Sleeper. Guy W. Brown. William H. Myers. Harry L. Orondorfr. George F. Watts. Audley F. Bradley. WilUam W. Kendall. Aubrey T. Stewart. tMiles E. Baxter. William L. Burnam. Rodney S. Boatwright. Albert E. Halsey. Orval R. Giffin. Alfred C. Strykor. Walter E. Hoke. Charles A. Truesdcll. Hoyt B. Remy. Charles E. Scott. William M. Scott. Vesalius Davis. John Swanson.
Roland S. Weaver William E. MclSlroy, Jesse C. Walton Carl L. Johnson Arnold R. Loop *Grover h. Franklin... Ebner Evans Willis A. Darg Aubrey J. Bradley James M. Shaw *Clem Livengood •George W. Hobbs John C. David Robert B. Anderson. Ernest W. Lindquist. Thomas E. Vincent... •Francis Sale William E. Shearer... Josiah H. Neill Albert R. Wallace Robert D. Oliver Ray S. Pierson John R. Robertson... *Lloyd 1. Baughman..
1st and 3d Wednesday .... 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Wednesday... Belle Plaine Belle Plaine 1st and 3d Wednesday... Republic 1st and 3d Monday Mt. Vernon Beloit Mitchell 1st and 3d Thursday Doniphan. 1st and 3d Monday 2d and last Wednesday.. Bennington Bennington 2d and 4th Tuesday Blue Mound . . 2d and 4th Monday Blue Kapids Blue Eapids 2d and 4th Tuesday Bluff City Leavenworth.. 1st and 3d Saturday Bonner Springs.. Bonner Springs.. Wyandotte .... 1st and 3d Monday Wednesday on or bef. ®.. Friday on or before ®.... 1st and 3d Thursday Grand View Ford....! 1st and 3d Thursday Wilson Buffalo Buffalo 1st and 3d Thursday Bunker Hill 1st and 3d Thursday Cowley 2d and 4th Tuesday Morris 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Burlingame 2d and 4tli Monday Coffey 2d and 4th Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday Harvey Butler
>!
o
to
o
So
57
80 36
273 122 411 176 394 418 102 306 295 212 100 113 269 316 13
424
73 283
280 247
No.
County.
Hamilton
Masters.
Secretaries.
Allison D. Hassler Warren C. McFarland Steel R. Nortlicutt Joseph F. Elchert Guy S. Baker Tliomas D. Shaw Carrel E. Butcher Fayette F. Spencer Emil A. Wickcrt
Victor L. Owens. William G. Haxton. Williani C. Price. Hugh H. Barr. Ovid J. Goodwin. Sigmund Lehman. Reuben Sherwood. John T. Reutter. Merl .1. Watson. Floyd 1. Shoaf. Howard A. Sommerville.... George G. Grinin. Edward J. McQuillen. Maxwell Dolan Nathan C. Smith. *Myrl C. Lyon John F . Randolpli. Wilber F. Gillett. *Earl W.Moore William R. Powell. Paul Netherland, .Ir tAlmon M. Baker. •William O'Day Ray H. Crumly. Herbert D. RandeU Karl G. Ehrllch J. I^awton Stanley. Obadiah R. Stilwcll. Claude R. Lawrence Duncan Cunningham, .li'... Orin 0 . Gordon. Dial R. Nolan John R. Forbes. Henry L. Games. Andrew G. Small Joseph H. Conard. Orville R. Kendrick 2d and 4th Tuesday Bryan J. Clemens. Frank E. Hannum 1st and 3d Saturday William B. Penny. Ralph G. WolfT Thomas R. Yadon. 1st Wednesday Hops Willoughby. 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Erviii Coolcy
Stated Communications.
Dickinson ... 2d and 4th Thursday... 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Tuesday Sedgwick 2d and 4tli Tuesday Crawford Montgomery.. 1st and 3d Monday 3d Thursday 2d and 4th Wednesday.. 2d and 4th Monday 1st Wednesday Claflin 1st and 3d Tuesday Clay Clay Center 1st Tuesday Sedgwiclc 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Clifton Clay 2d and 4tli Tuesday Greenwood Ist and 3d Thursday Prairie Queen.... Cloud 1st and 3d Monday Pratt 2d and 4th Monday Codell Montgomery.. Ist and 3d Wednesday .. St. Thomas Comanche .. Ist and 3d Friday Olive Branch Anderson Clierokee........ ].st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Monday Cloud
Name of Lodge.
Cotton'd Falls .. Council Grove .. Council Grove .. Wilson CoyviUe
Conway Springs
Codell.
Clifton
Claflin Clay Center
Location.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Continued.
o
en 05
45 127 345 48 97 350 132 126 422 217 297 146 387 12 413
374
138
31
375 419 202 372 40 92 156 279
432
427
362
St. Bernard
Dodge City
Ellis Ellsworth Pottawatomie Gray
Ensign
Butler Chautauqua .. Montgomery., Elk
Leavenworth..
Doniplian
Republic Kingman
Ellis
Elgin Elk City .. Elk Falls .. Elkhart .,
De Soto
Cunningham
Do Soto
Cunningham
1st and 3d Thursday
1st and 3d Thursday
T. iSdward StafTord. Roy E. Huffman. Willis E. Benjamin. John D. Harkness. Howard E. Houck. Harry P. Dean. Clarence IS. McClarren. Charles 13. Wiard. George A. Van Dyke. Ralph L. Daniel. Charles W. Monroe. Richard W. Evans. Loid Z. iCirby. Thomas M. Downey. Edward S. Riley. Charles B. Bates. John E. Olson. Lloyd Coberly.. Perry E. Wollley. J. Irvin Wester. Frank M. Marsh. Leon L. Cousland. John V. Fralick. Marshall M. Milton. Newton Hill. Edward R. Herzberger. Charles P. Hirsch. Arthur Fauteux. Charles D McHree. Clarke S. Pool. fCharles W. Cleaver. tEUsworth V. Bryan.
Jerry F. Havel John O. Fee WilUam T. Kcll *Marvin L. Hodson Everett Mitchell Lawrence V. Jermark *Loyd E. Coleman Frank B. Strickland,.. Alton E. Killion James P. Sandstrum.. Wilham A. Charles.... Cecil E. Davis *Frank Case *Aubert D. Pitts Edward W. Bahberg.. Norman W. Nixon Sidney F. Dasher Lester L. Goff William A. Chaplin.... Isaac A, Babb *Estel C. Fisher Bwin L. Falkner Chester C. Houston ... Robert H. Stephens.... John W. Ransom William J. Blackburn Edward Sossler Charles A. Baugher Jesse R. Morrell *Carl W. Page John A. Myers Harrison E. Rail
I—'
o
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fa
Gaylord
Gaylord
Garden City
194 251 240 G5 108 44 183
Constellation
Fidelity
Erie
Name of Lodge.
Fulton
Ft. Leavenworth
Erie
Location
103 124 114 131 336 311 8 302 07 337 95 380 210
437 76 228 205 83 100
No.
Staled Communications.
Charles W. Williams Clarence E. Dickinson
Masters.
Anderson Smith
1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday Saturday on or before®.. *Roy F. Santner
1st and 3d Wednesday .. Clierolico Guy H. Ash McPherson .... 2d Tlmrsday
1st and 3d Monday Ist and 3d Wednesday .. 2d and 4tli Monday 1st and 3d Thursday
Pottawatomie 2d and 4th Saturday
2d and 4th Saturday Jewell 1st and 3d Monday Leavenworth.. 1st and 3d Thursday
Greenwood .... 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Tuesday on or before ®.. Crawford
2d and 4th Monday 2d and 4th Wednesday.. 2d and 4th Tuesday Wabaunsee .... 1st and 3d Monday 2d and 4th Tuesday Greenwood .... 1st and 3d Tuesday
Dicliinson
County.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Continued.
Harmon M. Martin.
Pliilip J. Bigham.
Fred Roy Alford.
Ora S. Wood.
Loo J. Wliite.
Daniel P. Mills.
Secretaries.
o
0
o o
00
35
195 263 308 307
34
421
301
226
448
15 211
Hiawatha
HarveyviUe
Greensburg
G r e a t Bend
Havensville
HarveyviUe
J o h n J. M u t h . Paul H. Huebert. R i c h a r d L. Mills. t G e o r g e W . Blain. Clarence H . Westfall. Charles R. Baysinger. Charles O. H a w k s . J a m e s O'Neal. Walter C. Richardson. J a m e s G. B e n n e t t . Alfred H a v e m a n n . Lawrence E . M a d d o x . Jasper N . Chambers. Fred M. Thompson. H a r r y O. Armstrong. L u t h e r L. Hassenpflug.
Clarence A. Rhine J a m e s F . Barlow....; *Bugene N o b l e *Lenora G. Jenkins Claude C. B r y a n t Elmer Rich *Charles A. T a b e r Wabaunsee.... T h u r s d a y on or before ® Stanley R. H i e t t Wilsie W . Cox P o t t a w a t o m i e 1st and 3d T u e s d a y E a r l H . Swaim 1st a n d 3d T u e s d a y H a r r y A. Girton i'red C. Montgomery.. 1st a n d 3d T u e s d a y M o n d a y on or bef. ©.«« . J a m e s W . Osburn Crawford 1st a n d 3d W e d n e s d a y .. Charles S. Forbes Dickinson R o b e r t M . Simmonds. Roscoe T . Nichols
"Washington.... 2d and 4 t h 1st and 3d Greenwood.... 1st a n d 3d 2d a n d 4 t h 1st a n d 3d
Tuesday Thursday Thursday Wednesday.. W e d n e s d a y ..
H a m i l t o n D . Laughlin. Walter Lock. Sophus N u t l a n d . W a l t e r E . Keef. Arley H . F i t z w a t e r . Camillo W . J u p e . Lawrence O. Maxwell. Valie L. Robertson. Clarence F . H e a t o n . F r a n k S. Gerhold. Charles J. Reboul. Allen M . Beverly. John F. Bertram. H o m e r C. H u n t . David D. Stuart. Earl W. Davis. George S. Gillum.
2d a n d 4 t h W e d n e s d a y . . J o h n E . Mock... J a m e s H . Ludlow 1st and 3d W e d n e s d a y . N o r m a n H . J o r d a n 1st a n d 3d T h u r s d a y Alfred L. M o r e Mitchell 1st a n d 3d T u e s d a y William H . F u n d 1st a n d 3d W e d n e s d a y .. Moses O. P a r k e r 1st a n d 3d T u e s d a y Richard H . T h o m p s o n 1st a n d 3d T u e s d a y George H . Trible Price B o n d u r a n t G r e a t Bend F r i d a y on or before'®...... George E . Mahaffy Anderson 1st a n d 3d W e d n e s d a y .. Christian C. K l l l i a n . . . Clay Washington.... 1st a n d 3d W e d n e s d a y .. Thale P . Skovgard Claude H . B e c k e t t 1st a n d 3d Wednesday .. J o s e p h J. M a r s h a l l J a m e s C. Dennison John E. Borah 1st a n d 3d M o n d a y Alba K. M a n n i n g 1st a n d 3d T u e s d a y G y p s u m C i t y .... Crawford
b
to
to
to
>^
''I
o
o to o
443
227 360 282 11 441 7
107 38 112
288 352 326 155 348 327 406 29 72 140 445
42
1 281
No
Junction City....
Kanorado
Blue Valley
Hutcliinson
Hutchinson
Independence...
Hoyt
Cyrus
Stevens Allen
Elk
Ellsworth
Doniplian Graham
County.
Sherman
Hodgeman
Cloud
Prcd AV. Shipley
Charles H. McWhirt Everett L. Remsberg
*01in H. Tavlor
John A. O'Dell Thomas A. Railsback
Harrv JS. Engel *Martin F. Trued
and 3d Tuesday and 3d Monday and 3d Monday and 3d Wednesday .. and 3d Thursday and 3d Thursday. . Roland V. Blanchard
1st and 3d Tuesday
1st 1st 1st 1st 1st 1st
Masters.
and 3d Monday • Paul H. Guthrie and 4th Tliursday... Will C. McCormick and 3d Thursday Alfred K. Carr and 3d Thursday
1st and 3d Thursday , 1st and 3d Tuesday..:. . 1st and 3d Wednesday.. 1st and 3d Tuesday 2d Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday 2d and 4th Tuesday 1st and 3d Tuesday . 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Thursday
1st 2d 1st 1st
Slated Communicaiions.
Montgomery.. 2d and 4th Tuesday Allen.... 1st and 3d Tuesday .. 2d and 4tli Monday
Name of Lodge.
Hoyt
Hill City
Location.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Continued.
Oscar W. Hall.
Willie C. Adams.
Ralph D. Hill. Holly M. Miller. Allyn S. Chandler.
.Toseph M. Wanasek. H. Lambert Hibbs.
Ralph B. Call.
William H. Hargis.
Secretaries.
to
o
Co
to
ft
8
o
o
tJames E. Porter. tOrlo E . D u r a n t . t A r t h u r H . Strickland fFrank McDougall. t W i l l i a m E . Saunders. tFred H. Mertel. t C l a r e n d o n Greenwood, Jr. G u y R. Cm'rier. D u n c a n R. E d w a r d s . C a r l J . Peterson. Velma S. Haley. J o h n E . Stowell. R o b e r t T. Ishmael. Harrison P . Landes. H e r m a n 15. Schwartzkopl. H o w a r d I J . Clarke. John E. Garvey. Russell B . Lake. Francis I J . Pierce. Marion McNutt. Charles L. Cherrie. H e r b e r t L. Ames. Charles H . Cowles. t C l a r e n c e E . Birch. f P a u l A. Lange. tCharles E. Cart. t-loseph J. Parker. t J o s e p h F . Seymour. J a m e s L. Pel ton. E d w a r d R. E v a n s P r a n k J. Shirley. WilUam H . R i t t e r R o b e r t A. R i c h m o n d .
•William J. R o n e y •Charles H . Smith •Harris Harrington • A r t h u r R. E c k m a n . . . . • J o h n A. W h i t t y •George W . J o h n s t o n . . •William C. F r y e Roger E . Gibson •Estel W . Dixon George W . C u r r y F r e d W . Hiss D o n a l d K. Kerr H a r r y E . Crow Charles C. Goetz William A. D r e a n y Walter P . Cline A r t h u r E . Nicholas J a m e s M . Williams E d g a r K. E c k h a r d t •Benjamin L. C a r t e r • R a y m o n d E . Fulcher Benjamin H . Sooby John E. Rankin • George D . Wall • R o b e r t C. Ardrey •Charles L. H a m m o n d . . . •WilHara T . Wahler •WiUiam H . Case F r a n k A. H a r t J a c o b O. Williams Benjamine O. Kellogg.. Roger H . Stephenson... Carl E . Georgeson
I s t a n d 3d F r i d a y 1st and 3d T h u r s d a y 1st and 3d T h u r s d a y Every Thursday 1st and 3d F r i d a y 1st and 3d T u e s d a y 2d and 4 t h Wednesday.. 2d and 4 t h T u e s d a y 1st and 3d M o n d a y 1st a n d 3d W e d n e s d a y . 2nd a n d 4 t h Monday..., 2d and 4 t h T u e s d a y 2d a n d 4 t h Wednesday. 2d and 4 t h F r i d a y 2d and 4 t h T h u r s d a y 1st and 3d M o n d a y 1st, 3d and 5 t h T l i u r s . 2d S a t u r d a y 1st and 3d T u e s d a y 2d and 4 t h T h u r s d a y 1st a n d 3d M o n d a y 1st a n d 3d Wednesday , 2d and 4 t h T u e s d a y 2d a n d 4 t h M o n d a y 2d T h u r s d a y 1st and 3d M o n d a y 2d and 4 t h T h u r s d a y ... 1st and 3d T h u r s d a y 1st a n d 3d Wednesday . 1st and 3d F r i d a y 1st a n d 3d T h u r s d a y S a t u r d a y on or before®. 2d a n d 4 t h T h u r s d a y
Wyandotte . Wyandotte . Wyandotte . Wyandotte. Wyandotte . Wyandotte . Wyandotte . Smith Anderson Kingman Ford Edwards Barber Phillips Rush Linn Allen Barber Kearny Franklin Leavenworth. Pawnee Butler Douglas Douglas Leavenworth, Leavenworth, Leavenworth Smith Coffey Douglas Johnson Norton
Wyandotte Armourdale Kaw Ben H u r Rosedale R. E. Sherman. West G a t e Kensington Kincaid Ninnescah Kingsdown Mt. Moriah Cosmos Kirwin
L a Crosso L a Cygne La Harpe Medicine Valley Emerald Lane N i n e Mile Larned Latham Lawrence Acacia Leavenworth... King Solomon Hiram Oak Lebo Lecompton Lenexa Lenora
K a n s a s City . K a n s a s City . K a n s a s City . Kansas City . K a n s a s City . K a n s a s City . Kansas C i t y . Kensington... Kincaid Kingman Kingsdown... Kinsley Kiowa [ilrvvin
Ija Crosso La Cygne La Harpe Lake City i*akin Lane Lansing Lamed Latham Lawrence Lawrence Leavenworth.. Leavenworth.. Leavenworth.. Lebanon Lcbo Locorapton Lenexa...; Lenora
3 271 272 322 333 3G9 438 405 338 230 447 179 278 175
330 61 325 260 289 339 49 167 401 0 9 2 10 68 287 152 420 135 181
h^
Ol
tfi
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to c^ o '^ >1
Si b
O
371 196 16 87 342 370 28 147
27 220 300 154 397 170 241 219 264 231 26 243 198 153 101 192
235 340
223
No.
Marion
Maple City Maple Hill
Manhattan
Long Island
Long Island
Maple City Maple Hill
Euclid
Blue Hill
Corner Stone
Fraternal
Garfield
Name of Lodge.
Little Eivor
Leonard ville
Location.
Fred McReynolds WalterJ. Green •Clarence O Price Forrest B. Fair Roy C. Gearhart Leander E. Jones Clarence Kerns *Boss E. Chapman
2d and 4th Monday Stafford Greenwood .... 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Friday Riley 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Saturday on or bef.®=.... Wabaunsee .... Saturday on or bef. ®=i.... 1st Friday Marion
Masters. Charles T. Dixon Elvin O. Chaffee H. Raymond Green Walter O.. Pitts Hosea O. Denney Ray B. Smith John H. Giles Arthur C. Olson Harry L. Faris Omar O. Browning Percy Sims Grover W. Wills Jennings D. Near Glenn W. Smith Charles E. Cook Eric E. Ewing Walter E. Pangburn... Fred L. Athon Samuel J. Rickabaugh
Stated Communications.
1st and 3d Wednesday 2d and 4th Monday 1st and 3d Tuesday Coffev 1st and 3d Monday Edwards 1st and 3d Monday Seward 2d. and 4th Thursday McPhorson .... 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Washington.... 2d and 4th Tuesday Leavenworth.. 1st and 3d Friday 2d and 4th Tuesday 2d and 4th Tuesday PhiUips 1st and 3d Thursday Phillips 1st and 3d Thursday Elk 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday •1st and 3d Thursday Rice
Butler Riley
County.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Continued.
Harvey B. Breneman. Evar M. Johnson. tStephen A. D. Geauque. Eugene C. Greene. tDana C. McGill. Howard Adams. Don C. Campbell. Howard S. Daniel.
Arley M. Kistler. Roy H. Walker. Lewis L. Wilson. Andrew J. Lankton. George W. Wells. Edward S. Irwin. Ivan D. Lyon. tFrank M. Shields. Marvin A. Raven. tHoward W. Howsmon. R. Glenn Shumway. Francis C. Troup. .Baron O. .Jordan. Marion M. Miller. George G. Tronjo. Thomas B. Dinsmoor. Opie O. Mowrey. Edward Storbeck. Patrick A. Dickerson.
Secretaries.
O
tJl
b
o o
S3
13
to
Minneapolis
McPherson Webb Delta
McDonald
McCracken
349 390 94 82
346 218 238 261 399 201 128 116
Neosho Falls
Mound City 33 Mound City Moundrldge Moundrldge Mound Valley.... Mount Hope Mount Hope Mulberry
1 353 Marquette 91 393 58 McCracken 237 383 256 172 McPherson 275 77 Medicine Lodge 22 236 255 Milan 242 143 Minneapolis 431 267 245 414 373
Republic Osborne Wilson Woodson
Willis H. Hunt Luther G. Howard Le Roy Moore Scott S. Yawger *Ernest P. Cliristy *WiIey R. Gaines WilUam S. Pyle Soren Sorensen Francis W. Brown Arthur A. Martin Carter T. McNabb William D. Patterson... James P. McDonald Stanley W. Lloyd Joseph Winchester William A. Smith Frank E. McCray Chester A. Dickinson... *Henry Pratt Floyd McKim Ralph A. Peatman David L. Harder Willis C. Hansen Harry G. McDonough.. •Robert W. Smllie Irvln R. Fralick Sam F. Kimble Glenn A. Stransky Charles E. Roberts Albert Bever. John Christensen. James A. Songer. Sheppard A. Williams
Victor L. Krig. John I. Brandenburger. Edson J. Lunger. John I. Edwards. Thomas R. Landes. Oscar A. Brown. Jesse F. Pyle. Edison F. Kubin. Ormond Hamilton. Huston H. Case. Frank E. Jones. Wilbur N. Morrison. fEldon E. Dinldns. Martin L. Albertson. Edward W. Lenander. Walter S. Wright. John W. Lewis. John J. Boman. Albert Kobler. Ray H. Mickey. Charles W. Kingsbury. Ivy B. Gray. Marvin O. Mayginnes. William A. McCormick. Homer B. Kirk. Ernest E. French. Theodore C. Conklin. George W. Strnad. William H. Comer.
1st and 3d Saturday Walter J. Daniels 1st and 3d Monday *George 0 . Greene 2d and 4th Wednesday. Clarence A. McCullough J. Kline Snodgrass I 1st and 3d Monday
McPherson .... I 2d and 4th Tuesday 1st and 3d Tuesday 2d and 4th Thursday 2d and 4th Tuesday Rush 2d and 4th Monday Crawford 2d and 4th Wednesday. Rawlins Thursday on or after®. Jefferson McPherson .... 1st and 3d Friday 1st and 3d Tuesday Meade 1st Thursday Barber 1st and 3d Thursday Osage 1st and 3d Thursday Jefferson 1st and 3d Thursday Sunuier 1st and 3d Friday Cloud 2d and 4th Wednesday. 2d and 4th Tuesday Clark 2d and 4th Tuesday Elk Saturday on or bef. ®=... Allen 1st and 3d Tuesday Graham 1st and 3d Friday Brown 1st and 3d Friday McPherson .... 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Wednesday . Wednesday on or bef.®= Sedgwick 2d and 4th Tuesday Crawford 1st and 3d Wednesday . Kiowa 1st and 3d Wednesday , Sumner 2d and 4th Wednesday. Republic 1st and 3d Thursday Atchison
to
to
o
O
334 253 186 25 19 188 323 141 24 160 14 63 18 62 436 165
191 130 81 142 43 317 199 266 319
No.
Clay
Jefferson Kingman
Decatur
Jackson
County. Communications.
.lohn W . Fuller
H o w a r d S. Wiiitfleld
Masters.
.. .. ..
M a r s h a l l O. Swalm
*.Iesso C. R o o t
.. W a l t e r E . P r a t h e r J. R a l p h Clark
1st a n d 3d T h u r s d a y T h u r s d a y on or before ® •Charles C. Cleland ... 2d a n d 4 t h Wednesday.. W a l t e r L . Hendriclcson 1st a n d 3d T h u r s d a y *Harry A. Z i m m e r m a n
2d a n d 4tli T u e s d a y 2d T h u r s d a y 2d a n d 4 t h Tuesday
Stated
1st a n d 3d M o n d a y 1st a n d 3d W e d n e s d a y M o u n t a i n Slope 1st a n d 3d T u e s d a y Oketo 1st a n d 3d M o n d a y Olathe 2d T h u r s d a y P o t t a w a t o m i e 1st a n d 3d W e d n e s d a y Oneida 1st a n d 3 d W e d n e s d a y Oneida 1st a n d 3d Wednesday 1st a n d 3d T h u r s d a y Osage Valley Osawatomie 2d a n d 4 t h T h u r s d a y 1st a n d 3d T h u r s d a y Oskaloosa 1st a n d 3d T h u r s d a y 1st a n d 3d F r i d a y Overbrook 2d a n d 4 t h T u e s d a y Overland P a r k . . Overland P a r k . . Oxford 1st a n d 3d M o n d a y Oxford Sumner
Oak Hill
M o u n t Zion
Nortonville
Oak Hill Oakloy Oberlin Oketo Olathe
New Albany
W a l n u t Valley....
Name of Lodge.
N e w Albany,,
Location.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Continued.
Alfred Owens.
Clyde J . C o r d t s .
t P e r r y G. M c C r a y .
G u y C. Allen. Charles T . Guise.
Charles N . Wooddell
Secretaries.
•J]
in O
S3
o o
E a r l L. B a r r e t t . J o s e p h P . Stlnson fWilliam M . Hungerford. Louis Schwartz James W. Werts. F r a n k Z. Stover Christopher F . Mosher.... Elmer L. Minnick. E a r l L. E d w a r d s tJames P. Haggard, August E . Schattenburg.. J o s e p h A. Meyer. Jesse A. P e t t e y . Mil ward Idol William H . Anderson. Harold J. Pendergrass Clyde H . Cless. H a r r y W . Jamieson F r a n k U. Ifershner. E w a r t T. M a r t i n A r t h u r L. Boyd. F r a n k Eberly 1st and 3d T u e s d a y 1st a n d SdThursday.... 1st and 3d Thursday.... 1st and 3d M o n d a y 1st and 3d M o n d a y 1st and 3d Wednesday 1st and 3d Tuesdiiy 1st a n d 3d F r i d a y 1st and 3d F r i d a y 2d and 4 t h Wednesday 1st a n d 3d T u e s d a y
Randall Farmers Republic Re.Nford Richmond Aslilar Robinson Rosalia Hesperian W a l n u t City., Russell
Jewell Riley Republic. Thomas... Franklin... Riley Brown Butler Shawnee... Rush Ru.ssell
Randall Randolph Republic Roxford A:r, Richmond Riley 311 Robinson I ".'.I •i:; 1 R()?alia 1 ! '. Hcissville 2 1 ". Rush Center.. 177 Itussdl
304 166 123 4A2
Charles E . Miller. C l a u d e W. Roesch.
Elmer Wiley H i r a m W . Joy
1st and 3d Thursday.... 2d and 4 t h M o n d a y
Osage.. Gove...
Quenemo.. Quinter
Quenemo,. Quinter
270 410
George M . Coplin. 1st and 3d M o n d a y Fred L. R a n d Alva W . Redding. Clarence E . Cochran 1st and 3d S a t u r d a y t J o h n H . Amos. T u e s d a y on or before ® E a r l C. Reeves H a r v e y R. Reed. Claude E . Kinzie 2d and 4 t h M o n d a y Harold H . Brindley. Archie C. T h o m a s 1st a n d 3d M o n d a y William E . Cain, 1st and 3d T u e s d a y ,. A r t h u r C. Elswick Fred A. Kelly. W a r r e n J. S w a r t o u t 1st T h u r s d a y W a r r e n V. Scott. *George A. Stephenson 2d and 4 t h S a t u r d a y William W . Beine. J o h n G. Simms 2d T h u r s d a y John H. Hiatt. H a r r y W . Davis 1st and 3d T h u r s d a y George AV. Connelly. J a c k Benedict 1st and 3d Friday Charles V. P o r t e r . H a r l a n I. Abbey 1st and 3d Tuesday Leonard L. Jones. E a r l Staley 2d and 4 t h T u e s d a y W . Roger M a r t i n . S a t u r d a y on or before®, Walter S. Rollins Keever E. W h a r t o n . Roy B . C r u m b 1st a n d 3d S a t u r d a y O r a n L. Miller. *Roy L. Miller 2d and 4 t h M o n d a y Lawrence P . Millspaugh. J. Melvin Stewart 1st and 3d Tuesday 2d and 4 t h T u e s d a y , * Archibald E . McClelland W i l b u r n M . Kellogg. Atlee M . E d m o n s t o n . Paul F . C r u m 1st and 3d Thursday....
Miami Linn Morris Labette Marion Jefferson Phillips Wyandotte . Crawford Meade Rooks Linn Franklin Atchison Brown Pratt Pratt Reno Comanclio...
Paola Parker Parkerville Parsons Halcyon Perry Phillipsburg Piper Pittsburg Plains Paradise Eureka McKinley Kickapoo Powhattan Kilwinning R o b Morris P r e t t y Prairie.. Protection
Paola Parker :.... ParkervUle Parsons Peabody Perry Phillipsburg Piper Pittsburg Plains Plainville Pleasanton Pomona Potter Powhattan Pratt Preston P r e t t y Prairie.. Protection
37 341 IfiS 117 120 415 184 3S5 187 367 290 88 41 4 3G3 265 332 428 384
to en
o b o
b
S3
407 136 139 423 39 313 213 417 SO 214 174 240 105 157 388 347 56 252 444
ATo.
Name of Lodge.
County.
Stated Communications.
Saffordville
Saffordville
2d and 4th Wednesday.. 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Tuesday Allen 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Wednesday .. 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Scott City Scott Mitchell Scottsvillo. . . 2d and 4th Tuesday 2d and 4th Monday Chautauqua.. 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday Doniphan 2d Sat. and 4th Wed Twin Grove Greenwood .... 2d and 4th Tuesday 1st and 3d Thursday Sharon Springs.. Sharon Springs.. 1st and 3d Thursday Silver Lalio Shawnee 1st and 3d Thursday Mitchell 1st and 3d Tuesday Smith Center .... Western Star .. Smith 1st and 3d Tliursday .... Solomon City .... Diclfinson 2d and 4th Tuesday South Haven . 1st and 3d Tuesday Ford 1st and 3d Thursday Kingman 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Spring Hill 1st and 3d Monday Stafford Stafford Stafford 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Tuesday
Location.
William R. Jacobs. Sol Weil.
Wilbur H. Cheney. Troy O. Wheeler.
Albert K. Morey. Leo T. Gibbens. C. Fred Lipke.
Charles N . Fowler. Charles F. McDonald. William G. Taylor.
George R. Moore.
Secretaries.
Glenn F. Wiswell. *Franli W. Cole
Glenn H. Wagner.
William J. Zimmerman.
Benjamin W. Prophet
Fredricic W. Chapman .... George C. Leinen. Theodore A. Wendtland.... George H. Marty. William T. Onion
Edwin G. Arnold
Harry R. McPhail
Robert I. Ruth
Henry C. Pennington
Charles V. Haynes Lee R. Obley Charles A. Broom
Masters.
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Continued.
Co
b
to o
05
148
Wa-Keeney
Trego
Valloy Center... Valley Center... Sedgwiclc Valley Falls Valley Falls Marshall
364 21 320
Harlan R. Moody Hugh R. Wonner
Oscar W. Neil. Arthur S. Keraus.
Eugene S. Talcott. Virgil P. Murray. Fred W. Arnold.
*Cassius M. Sandusky.. 1st and 3d Monday 1st and 3d Wednesday . Emil O. Gutsch Edward Woodward 1st and 3d Thursday 1st and 3d Saturday 1st and 3d Tuesday
Richard H. Joyce. Milo Miller. Roy A. Triplett.
Harvey G. Lowrance. William Heynen. tGeorge W. McClelland. fEvan Davis. tJames H. Murrell. tBurl J. Snow. Emery F. Armstrong. Napoleon L. Reed. Glenn 1. Hackney. Charles S. Wilson. Frederick R. Prank. William W. Cottingham.
Hugo H. Rauschelbach. Hulbert G. Lockard. James H. Hammitt. tEmmet H. Stambaugh. George M. Unger. John J. Miller. James M. Kendall. Stanley E. RafTety. John W. Coleman. WilUara E. Fatten.
2d and 4th Wednesday.. Doctor E. Roseberry Saturday on or before®.. John P. Wells J. Wayne Knetzer..... 1st and 3d Thursday
Guy E. Elliott 2d and 4th Monday Neosho Vernon L. Johnson.' Leavenworth.. 1st Sat. and 3d Thurs 1st and 3d Wednesday .. •George E. Soybold Shawnee *Hugh B. McGrath.; 1st and 3d Friday *Wimam C. Wells 2d and 4th Thursday •George L. Weigand 1st and 3d Thursday Shawnee Raoul I. McLaughlin.. 1st and 3d Monday Woodson 1st and 3d Tuesday .... Cho.sley N. Hawk Butler 1st Mon. and 2d Sat. fol. Lee S. Glasgow Doniplian |*Grover F. Jacks Wyandotte.... 1st and 3d Thursday Ernest G. Walker 1st and 3d Saturday Keno Samuel B. Woods Montgomery.. 2d and 4th Friday Grant Bourbon Neosho
Tyro
Topcka (No.) .... Golden Rule
Tonganoxie
Rene A. Bourgain 1st and 3d Wednesday .. Benjamin G. Harrison.. Cheyenne WilUam C. Radke 1st and 3d Monday Staflord Alfred T. Rezac Pottawatomie.... Pottawatomie 1st Wednesday John F. Wieland 1st and 3d Tuesday Newaliculja Laurence G. Meairs 2d and 4th Monday Haskell Willard E. Blakeway... 1st and 3d Tliursday Summerfleld Summerfleld Edward Novak 1st and 3d Thursday Sylvan Grove.... Sylvan Grove.... Robert J. Yust 1st and 3d Tuesday James B. Hammond... 1st and 3d Thursday Hamilton
St. Francis
115
425
30 55
51 90
149
312 354 359
52
171
en to
o
b
104 85 04 244 274 150 350 257 305 53 90 3S0 7S 250 80 99 303 433 224 412 382 298 84
390 377 318 229
No.
Weir
Wilsey Wilson Winchester
Wicliita Wichita.. Williamsbiirg
Jefterson
Albert Piko Bestor G. Brown
Wliite Clmrcli.... W h i t e City Wliile City Wliitc Cloud VVliito Cloud Whiting .
Ellsworth Jefferson
Comanche .
Sedgwick Sedgwick Sedgwick
Doniphan
Wyandotte....
Wellsvillc Westmoreland.... Westmoreland.... P o t t a w a t o m i e Anderson
Doniphan . Coirey Black Diamond.. Cherokee
Crawford . Pottawatomie Washington....
Clay
County.
Frontier
Wakefield ....
Name of Lodge.
Washington
Walnut .
Wakefield
Location.
Communications.
Masters.
1st a n d 3d T u e s d a y
Glenn E . M a l e Albert Pearson *LesUe 1. Burdick 1st a n d 3d M o n d a y M o n d a y on or before ®.. Albert L. Coghill 1st a n d 3cl W e d n e s d a y .. F r a n k A. Plxley 2d a n d 4 t h Tluu-sday J a m e s E . McConchie Charles L. Hall.... 1st a n d 3d S a t u r d a y Bruce J . C a r m a i n 1st a n d 3d T u e s d a y . • J a m e s Duff 2d a n d 4 t h T h u r s d a y 2d a n d 4 t h M o n d a y 1st a n d 3d M o n d a y Carl G. D o T a r 2d a n d 4 t h M o n d a y William B . H a r t T u e s d a y on or before®.. S a t u r d a y on orbef.®=.... •Milton E . Dingwerth 1st a n d 3d S a t u r d a y 2d a n d 4 t h W e d n e s d a y . . Virgil A. Girtch 1st a n d 3d W e d n e s d a y .. • P e t e r Smith 1st a n d 3d T u e s d a y 2d a n d 4 t h T u e s d a y •Benjamin F . Hull 1st a n d 3d M o n d a y • M o n t e J . Sweet 2d a n d 4 t h Wednesday.. •Charles F . L a t c h a w •Lyle H . P l a n t 1st a n d 3d T h u r s d a y 1st a n d 3d T h u r s d a y 1st a n d 3d T h u r s d a y 1st a n d 3d M o n d a y Levi M . P e d d y c o r d 1st a n d 3d AVednesday .. T h u r s d a y on or before® • M a r t i n H . Sheldon
Stated
NAMES OF OFFICERS AND LODGES—Concluded.
J . H a r r y Riley.
fCiyde S. Shelley.
I r v i n g P . Belden. tWilliam H . McCoin.
Claude J . Wood. t C h o s t e r A. B a r n a r d . R o y a l P . Smith.
F r e d F . Clobridge.
Alden C. Peffley. Walter E . D a v i d . J o h n A. M a r t i n . Charles H . Julien. F r a n k C. Banier.
Secretaries.
o
b
S3
o o
00
to
Kingman
Zenda
Zcnda..
378
MASTERS. No. *A<ldrcss. 2—1320 S. B r o a d w a y . 3—2433 W a s h i n g t o n Blvd. 5 ^ 1 5 2 9 Atchison St. 6—1411 M a s s a c h u s e t t s . 0—'.)27 M a s s a c h u s e t t s . 10—701 P a w n e e St. 14—Ozawkie. Hi—501 B l u e m o n t . 17—1019 Qulncy St. 31—R. F . D . N o . 0, Atchison. 32—Wakarusa. 47—Blue M o u n d . 48—'Miiscotah. 4 9 — R . F . D . N o . 1, Piper. .51—1413 Hiirrison St. 56—Ocheltreo. 08—514 P a w n e e St. 70—Scranton. 8 3 — R . F . D . N o . 2. 84—McLouth. 86—308 Y o r k R i t e Temple. 90—317 W . 13th St. 96—Bethel. 99—715 N . St. Francis Ave. 109—R. F . D . N o . 1. 102—1008 W e s t Fifth £t. 131—R. F . D . N o . 2. 133—R. F . D . N o . 4. 147—Aulne. 151—Rose Hill. 158—1427 C o m m e r c i a l St. 182—R. F . D . N o . 1. 183—Harlan. 185—Reserve. 194—Crestline. 225—1225 Boswell Ave. 2 3 7 ^ R . F . D . N o . 3. 2 5 0 — R . F . D . N o . 2. 2 6 1 — P . O. Box 135. 265—CuUison. 271—1271 Shawnee Ave.
T o m D . McVicker.
SECRETARIES. No. *Address. 2—- 0 0 3 Olive St. 3 - —Masonic T e m p l e . 5——605 K a n s a s Ave. 6 - - 2 3 0 5 Vermont. 9 - - 7 3 2 Rhode Island. 1 0 - -713'A Spruce St. 1 2 -- M a s o n i c T e m p l e . 1 0 - - B o x 86, K. S. A. C. 1 7 - —Masonic T e m p l e . 4 7 -- B l u e Mound. 5 1 - - 1 4 0 0 T o p e k a Blvd. 5 2 - - M a p l e Hill. 6 8 --2006 South 4th 8 0 - - 2 0 5 Caldwell-Murdock Bldg. 9 0 - - 1 2 2 8 N . Harrison St. 9 6 --Bethel. 9 9 - - B o x 255. 102- - B o x 390. 107- - B o x 215. 109- - R . F . D . N o . 2. 1 3 1 - - R . F . D . N o . 3. 1 4 1 - - R . F . D . N o . 7.
SPECIAL ADDRESSES.
2d and 4 t h Wednesday..
l . ' ; 8 ^ 2 1 2 N o r t h 9 t h St. 106—Garrison 168—White City. 185—R. F . D . N o . 3, H i a w a t h a . 225—-Room B , Masonic T e m p l e . 241—1234 N e w H a m p s h i r e St., Lawrence. 255—R. F . D . N o . 1, Corbin. 271—1106 Garfield Ave. 272—1825 Washington Blvd. 303—Scottish R i t e Temple. 322—1629 S o u t h 29th St. 333—3944 H u d s o n R o a d . 342—^Dexter. 365—-R. F . D . N o . 3, Leavenworth. 369—3021 N o r t h 22nd St. 383—Beard.Uev. 3 0 7 — R . F . D . N o . 3. 413—-Cimarron. 426—-Princeton. 433—Box 963. 438—302 Huron Hldg. 44.5—.527 East First St
Clare S. Lockwood.
Fred C. C a n n a d y .
1st a n d 3d Wednesday .. H a r r y K..Merrill
R u d o l p h D . Sliilling. D a v i d O. W a t t s . tKusscU G. Davis.
E d g a r P . Williams.. William C. Hill
S a t u r d a y on or before®.. *Jamcs B . Perry..
1st and 3d S a t u r d a y .. 1st and 3d Thursday..
MASTERS. No. *Adilress. 2 7 2 - - 9 1 4 Orville Ave. 2 7 4 - - R . F . D . N o . 1. 3 0 1 - - B o x 248, Virgil. 3 0 3 --Scottish Rite Temple. 3 1 3 --Leona. 3 1 7 - -.lennings. 3 1 8 -- W i n o n a . 3 1 9 -- M i l t o n . 322—- 1 4 2 8 South 30th St. 3 2 3 - -Seneca. 3 3 3 - - 1 7 0 8 W e s t 3 9 t h St. 3 3 5 --Bushong. 3 3 8 -- M i l d r e d . 3 3 9 - —Rantoul. 3 4 7 -- R a g o . 3.'52-- T r i b u n e . 3 6 4 - - R . F . D . N o . 7, Wichita. 3 6 5 - - 3 0 0 7 Westjjort Ave., Kansas City, K a n s a s . 3 0 8 - - M a n c h e s t e r , Oklahoma. 3 0 9 - - c / o Florence Hotel, 709 S t a t e Ave. 3 7 2 - - R . M' D 37.5-- R . F . D . N o . 1, Horington. 37il-- R . F . D., Benedict. 3 8 5 - —Tonganoxie. 3 8 7 - —Havensville. 3 9 0 - —Paradise. 3 9 4 - - R . F . D . N o . 2, P r a t t . 4 1 1 - - R . F . D . N o . 2, E u r e k a . 4 1 4 -- S t u d l e y . 4 2 1 - - R . F . D. N o . 2, Burlingamc. 42.')-—Mun<;ie. 4 2 8 -- C a s t l e t o n . 4 3 3 - - 1 7 3 0 N o r t h M a r k e t St. 4 3 8 - - 1 8 4 2 N o r t h 28th St. 440- - R . F . D . N o . 5, T r o y . 4 4 4 - -Stilwell. 4 4 5 - - 1 9 0 5 N o r t h Ash.
= And two weeks thereafter.
Woodson..
Gilcad..
Yates Center..
144
Uourbon...
Xenia..
47
Xonia
M cPherson . Cowley
Windom.. Winncld..
Wlndom.. Winfleld..
276 110
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1922 1923 1924 1925 1926 1927 1928 1929
1921
1918 1919 §1920
Owen J. Wood.. *Hugh P. Farrclly. Ben S. Paulen John McCuIlagh. , ''John A. Ferrell... Elmer F. Strain.. Charles A. Loucks John W. Ncilson.. Charles N. Fowler Ferris M, Hill George F. Beezlcy. Jav B. Kirk
•Hugh P. Farrelly. BenS. Paukn..,. John McCuUagh,, *John A. Ferrell... Richard E. Bird.. Charles A, Loucks John W. Ncilson.. Charles N. Fowler Ferris M.HUl George F. Beezlcy. Jay B. Kirk John M. Kinkcl.. .
Ben S. Paulen John McCuIlagh... •John A. FcrreU Richard E. Bird,... Elmer F. Strain.... John W. Ncilson,. . llCharles N. Fowler. Ferris M.Hill George F. Beezlcy,, Jay B. Kirk John M, Kinkei . . . , J, Forre-t Avros
Master. Deputy Gr. Master. Gr. Senior Warden. Gr. Junior Warden.
•Wm. I. Stuart..., Owen J. Wood.... • HughP. Farrelty.. BenS. Paulcn John McCuIlagh.. Richard E. Bird... Elmer F. Strain... Charles A. Louck'!. John W. Ncilson.. Charles N. Fowler Ferris M. Hill Georpe F. Beezlcy.
M.'.W.'.Gr.
W. F. March W. F. March W. F.March W. F. March
W.F, March W.F.March W. F . March W.F.March W.F.March W. F. March W. F. March
Grand Treasurer.
•Deceased. tDimitted and removed from this jurisdiction. |[Suspended. tin 1879 the time for holding the Annual Communicafion was changed from October to February, and no Communication w.as held in 1880. §Aiinual Communication postponed from February 18-19, 1920, to March 17-18,1920, account of influenza. ^Clayton Lehman elected, but declined to accept and Charles N. Fowler was appointed. "Retired voluntarily October 1,1928.
Topeka. Wichita, Topelia. Wichita Topelca. Wichita Topeka. Wichita Topeka Wichita Topeka. Wichita.
Dale. Place of Meeting.
ELECTIVE GRAND OFFICERS FROM ORGANIZATION TO PRESENT TIME—Concluded.
"Albert K. Wileon. "Albert K. Wilson. "Albert K. Wilson. "Albert K. Wilson. "Albert K. Wilson. "Albert K. Wilson. "Albert K. Wilson. "Albert K. Wilson. ".\lbcrt K. Wilson. "Albert K. Wilson. "Albert K. Wilson. Elmer F. Strain.
Grand .Secretary
0]
o o
GRAND
LODGE
OF
533
KANSAS.
ALPHABETICAL LIST OF LODGES. Name. Acacia Active Adams Advance Albert Pilie Alden Allen Alma Alplia Altamont Alta Vista Altoona Americus Anclior Antliem Antliony Antiquity Apollo Arcadia Arcana Argonia Arma Arraourdale Ashland Ashlar Attica Atwood Auburn Avon Axtell
No. 9 158 63 114 303 308 335 161 282 69 357 118 109 224 284 200 280 297 329 31 285 408 271 277 344 202 164 32 305 234
Barney 279 Baxter 71 Beattie 259 Beaumont 439 Belle Plaine 173 Belleville 129 Bendena 440 Benedict 403 Benevolent 98 Ben Hur 322 Bennington 180 Bestor G. Brown..433 Beulah 291 Black Diamond....274 Blue Hill 198 Blue Rapids 169 Blue Valley 112 Boling 365 Bonner Springs ...366 Bourbon 268 Brookville 209 Buffalo 379 Burdick 429 Burlington 66 Burr Oak 178 Burrton 182 Cable Caney Canopy Canton Carbondale Carson Cawker City Cedar Center Charity Chase Chautauqua Cherokee Cherryvale Ohetopa
Location. Lawrence. Atchison. Oswego. . Florence. Wichita. Alden. Allen. Alma. Jetmore. Altamont. Alta Vista. Altoona. Americus. Williamsburg. Scott City. Anthony. Chapman. EUis. Arcadia. Doniphan. Argonia. Arma. Kansas City. Ashland. Riley. Attica. Atwood. Auburn. Westphalia. Axtell. Dlghton. Baxter Springs. Beattie. Beaumont. Belle Plaine. Belleville. Bendena. Benedict. Abilene. FCansas City. Bennington. Wichita. Bunker Hill. Weir. liUcas. Blue Rapids. Irving. Boling. Bonner Springs. Bronson. Brookville. Builalo. Burdick. Burlington. Burr Oak. Burrton.
299 Arlington. 324 Caney. 248 Grenola. 197 Canton. 70 Carbondale. 132 Elk City. 125 Cawker City. 103 Chanute. 147 Marion. 263 Hazelton. 247 Chase. 355 Cedar Vale. 119 Cherokee. 137 Cherryvale. 73 Ohetopa.
Name. Circleville Clafiin Clay Center Clifton Climax Clinton Coats Codell Comanche Constellation Coolidge Corinthian Corner Stone Cosmos Council Grove Coyville Crescent Cuba Cunningham Cyrus Deerheld Delavan Delaware Delia Delphian Delphos Delta Denison De Soto Devon Dexter Dirigo Doric Douglass Dover Downs Dwight Easton Edna Eldora Elkhart EUinwood Ellsworth Emerald Eminence Emniett Emporia Ensign Enterprise Equity Erie Euclid Eureka Excelsior Fargo...' Farmers Fidelity Formoso Fortitude Fostoria Frankfort Fraternal Frederick Freeport Friendship Frontier Fulton Galena Galva Gardner Garfield
No. 20 424 134 122 ' 411 233 394 418 295 95 310 79 219 278 36 57 133 362 427 288 432 375 96 419 44 202 77 372 40 92 156 226 83 151 138 204 374 45 345 28 422 217 146 289 205 387 12 413 437 131 76 101 88 115 300 166 106 336 107 392 67 170 337 389 208 104 210 194 251 65 235
Location. Circleville. Clafiin. Clay Center. Clifton. Climax. Tiurden. Coats. Codell. Cold water. Fredonia. Coolidge. Burlingame. Little River. Kiowa. Council Grove. Coyville. Arliansas City. Cuba. Cunningham. Hope. Deerfleld. Delavan. White Church. Delia. Garnett. Delphos. Medicine Lodge. Denison. De Soto. Devon. Dexter. naddam. Eudora. Douglass. Dover. Downs. Dwight. Easton. Edna. Mapleton. Elkhart. EUinwood. Ellsworth. Lakin. Eskridge. Emmett. Emporia. Ensign. Enterprise. Fontana. Erie. Iiyndon. Pleasanton. Uniontown. Liberal. Randolph. Eureka. Formoso. Independence. Fostoria. Frankfort. Linn. Frederick. Freeport. Haven. Washington. Fulton. Galena. Galva. Gardner. Leonard ville.
534 Name. Gaylord Geneseo Gilead '. Girard Glasco Glen Elder Godfrey Goff Golden Rule.'. Goodland Gove City Grainfleld Grand View Great Bend Greeley Greenleaf Greenwood Grinneil Gypsum City Halcyon Halstead Hamilton Hamlin Hancock Harmony Harper Hartford Harveyville Haven HavensviUe Haviland Hays Hebron Henri Hepler Hesperian Hiattville Hiawatha Highland Hiram Hoisington Holton Holyrood Home Hope Horace Horton Hoxie Hoyt Hugoton Huron Hutchinson
PROCEEDINGS No. 183 361 144 93 292 294 124 430 90 321 302 381 376 15 211 232 163 448 328 120 46 301 185 311 94 206 193 421 157 34 409 195 314 190 398 .....Ill 216 35 290 68 331 42 343 89 155 362 326 348 327 406 72 445
Location. Gaylord. Geneseo. Yates Center. Girard. Glasco. Glen Elder. Farlington. Gofl. North Topeka. Goodland. Gove. Grainfleld. Bucklin. Great Bend. Greeley. Greenleaf. Fall River. Grinnell. Gypsum. Peabody. Halstead. Hamilton. Hamlin. Ft. Leavenworth. Neodesha. Harper. Hartford. Harveyville. South Haven. Havensville. Havlland. Hays. Gridley. Tongano.xie. Hepler. Rossville. Hiattville. Hiawatha. Green. Ijcavenworth. Hoisington. Holton. Holy rood. Oontralia. Howard. Horace. Horton. Hoxie. Hoyt. Hugoton. Huron. Hutchinson.
Ionic lola Jamestown Jefferson Jennings Jewell Johnson Joppa
254 St. John. 38 Ida. 227 .Jamestown. 84 Winchester. 360 Jennings. 11 Jewell. 441 .Johnson. 223 Leon.
Kansas Kanorado Kaw Kensington Keystone KIckapoo Kilwinning Kincaid King David King Solomon Kingsdown Kiowa Kirwiu
307 443 272 405 102 4 265 338 416 10 447 293 175
Herington. Kanorado. Kansas City. Kensington. Coffeyville. Potter. Pratt. Kincaid. Chanute. Leavenworth. Kingsdown. Greensburg. Kirwln.
OF THE Name. LaCro.sse LaCygne Lafayette LaHarpe Lake Landmark Lane Lamed Latham Lawrence Leavenworth Lebanon Lebo Lecompton Lenexa Lenora I^eoti Lewis Lincoln Lindsborg Lin wood Logan Long Island Longton Lotus Luray Lyra
February, No. 330 61 16 325 50 218 339 167 401 6 2 221 152 420 135 181 340 220 154 397 241 264 231 20 286 153 256
Mackey 48 Macks ville 371 Madison 196 Mankato 87 Maple City 342 Maple Hill 370 Marmaton 245 Marquette 353 Marysville 91 Mayetta 393 McCracken 58 McDonald 383 McKinley 41 McPherson 172 Medicine Valley...260 Melvern 22 Memphis 108 Meriden 230 Meridian 120 Milan 255 Millbrook 281 Milton vale 242 Minneapolis 143 Minneola 431 Mistletoe 269 Moline 267 Morland 414 Morrill 373 Morton 258 Mound City 33 Moundridge 346 Mountain Slope....186 Mount Hope 238 Mount Moriah 179 Mount Vernon 145 Mount Zion 200 Mulberry 201 Mullin ville 399 Mulvane 201 Munden 128 Muscotah lie Mystic Tie 74 Naphtali 310 Narka 349 Natoma 390 Nemaha '. 13 Neosho 27 Newahcuba 189 New Albany 81
Location. LaCrosse. LaCygne. Manhattan. LaHarpe. Silver Lake. Mound Valley. Lane. Earned. Latham. Lawrence. Leavenworth. Scandia. Lebo. Lecompton. Lcnexa. Lenora. Leoti. Lewis. Lincoln. Lindsborg. Lin wood. l^ogan. Long Island. Longton. Blue Mound. Luray. McLouth. Effingham. M acksville. Madison. Mankato. Maple City. Maple Hill. Moran. M arquette. Marysville. Mayetta. McCracken. McDonald. Pomona. McPherson, Lake City. Melvern. Garland. Meriden. Elk Falls. Milan. Hill City. Miltonvale. Minneapolis. Minneola. Conway Springs. Moline. Morland. Morrill. Cheney. Mound City. Moundridge. Oberlin. Mount Hope. Kinsley. Beloit. Nortonville. Mulberry. Mullinville. Mulvane. Munden. Muscotah. Augusta. Almena. Narka. Natoma. Corning. Le Roy. Stockton. New Albany.
GRAND
1928-29. Name. Newton Niclierson Nine Mile Ninnescah Norcatur Norton Norwich
No. 142 43 49 230 317 199 319
Oak 287 Oak Hill 334 Oakley 253 Occidental 207 Oketo 25 Olathe 19 Olive 350 Olive Branch 212 Onaga 188 Oneida 323 Orient 51 Osage Valley 24 Oskaloosa 14 Ottawa 18 Overland Park...;..436 Oxford 165 Pacific'. 29 Palestine 127 Palmyra 23 Paola 37 Paradise 290 Parker 341 Parkerville 168 Parsons 117 Patmos 97 Peace 243 Perry 415 Phillipsburg 184 Piper 385 Pittsburg 187 Plains 367 Polar Star 130 Pottawatomie 52 Powhattan 363 Prairie Queen 176 Preston 283 Pretty Prairie 428 Protection 384 Prudence 100 Quenemo 270 Quinter 410 Randall 304 Reno 140 Republic 123 Rexford 442 Richmond 426 Ridgeway 62 Rising Sun 8 Robinson 159 Rob Morris 332 R. E. Sherman 369 Rosalia 433 Rosedale 333 Royal 192 Russell 177 Sabetha 162 Saffordville 395 Salem 228 Salina 60 Saltville 59 Samaria 298 Santa Fe 312 Saqui 160 Satanta 446 Scammon 351 Scottsville : 249 Scranton 407 Sedgwick 139 Selden 423 Seneca 39 Severance 313 Sharon Springs ....417
LODGE OF
Location. Newton. Nicker.ion. Lansing. Kingman. Norcatur. Norton. Norwich. Lebanon. Oak Hill. Oakley. Alton. Oketo. Olathe. Elgin. Colony. Onaga. Oneida. Topeka. Osawatomie. Oskaloosa. Ottawa. Overland Park. Oxford. Humboldt. Edgerton. Baldwin. Paola. Plainville. Parker. Parkerville. Parsons. El Dorado. Louisbiu-g. Perry. Phillipsburg. Piper. Pittsburg. Plains. Netawaka. St. Marys. Powhattan. Clyde. Cimarron. Pretty Prairie. Protection. Columbus. Quenemo. Quinter. Randall. Hutchinson. Republic. Rexford. Richmond. Overbrook. Fort Scott. Robinson. Preston. Kansas City. Rosalia. Kansas City. Lyons. Russell. Sabetha. Saflfordville. Esbon. Salina. Barnard. Wilson. Sublette. Osborne. Satan ta. Scammon. Scottsville. Scranton. Sedgwick. Selden. Seneca. Severance. • Sharon Springs.
535
KANSAS.
. Name. Signal Siloam Sincerity Smithton Soldier Solomon City Spearville Spivey Spring Hill St. Bernard Saint Francis St. John's St. Thomas Stafford Stanley Sterling Stohrville Sumner Summerfleld Sunflower Sutton Sylvan Grove Sylvia Syracuse....
No. 141 225 241 1 240 105 388 347 56 222 404 113 306 252 444 171 368 203 354 86 85 359 391 309
Temple Thayer Topeka Towanda Troy.. Turner Turon Tuscan Twin Grove Tyrian Tyro
237 McCune. 149 Thayer. 17 Topeka. 30 Towanda. 55 Troy. 425 Turner. 358 Turon. 82 Neosho Falls. 213 Severy. 246 Garden City. 386 Tyro.
Ulysses Union Unity Urbana Valley Center Valley Falls Vermillion Vesper Virginia Vulcan Wakarusa Wa-Keeney Wakefield Waldron Wallace Walnut City Walnut Valley Wamego Washington Wathena Waverly Webb Wellington Wellsville Western Star West Gate Westmoreland Wetmore White City White Cloud Whiting Wichita Wilmore Wilsey Windom Winfleld Woodson Wyandotte
435 7 273 239 364 21 320 136 315 229 402 148 396 377 318 215 191 75 5 64 244 275 150 356 174 438 257 53 380 78 250 99 412 382 270 110 121 3
Xenia Zenda . Zeredatha
47
Location. Osage City. Topeka. Simpson. Highland. Soldier. Solomon. Spearville. Spivey. Spring Hill. Dodge City. Saint Francis. Concordia. Colby. Stafford. Stanley. Sterling. Bluff City. Caldwell. Summerfleld. Wichita. Waterville. Sylvan Grove. Sylvia. Syracuse.
Ulysses. Junction City. Clearwater. Urbana. Valley Center. Valley Falls. Vermillion. Sedan. Savonburg. Walnut. Wakarusa. Wa-Keeney. Wakefield. Waldron. Wallace. Rush Center. Ness City. Wamego. Atchison. Wathena. Waverly. Meade. Wellington. Wellsville. Smith Center. Kansas City. Westmoreland. Wetmore. White City. White Cloud. Whiting. Wichita. Wiimore. Wilsey. Windom. Winfleld. Toronto. Kansas City. Xenla.
378 Zenda. 80 Cottonwood Falls.
536
PROCEEDINGS
OF
THE
LIST OF LODGES BY COUNTIES. County.
Location.
Name. Pacific
lola
No.
29 3S 325 245 ;n5 212 44 211 338 305 5 158 48 72 4 IIG 203 278 260 77
Claflin
424 217 15 331
2G8 92
Bourbon
Eldora
8 210 108 210 28 115 47 185 35 326 373 363 159
Beaumont
Towanda
74 439 151 97 401 223 434 30 SO 395
Olive
355 350 136 71 100 194 351 274
Cheyenne
Saint Francis
'
Saint Francis
404
1928-29.
GRAND LODGE OF
537
KANSAS.
LIST OF LODGES BY COUNTIES—Continued. County.
Location.
Name.
No.
277 431
Oalv Hill Wakefield
134 122 296 334 396 176 113 292 227 242 66 314 152 27 244 295 384 412 133 233 156 342 110 329 408 119 124 93 398 237 261 187 229 360 317 186 98 280 437 307 288 105
W h i t e Cloud
440 31 1 313 55 64 78 23 83 6 9 420 179 220
538
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
LIST OF LODGES BY COUNTIES—Continued.
CountyElk..
EUIs Ellsworth Flnnoy .... Ford
-Franklin..
Geary.. Gove...
Graham Grant Gray Greeley Greenwood
Hamilton.. Harper
Harvey Haskell Hodgeman
Location. Elk Falls Grenola Howard Longton Moline Ellis Hays Ellsworth Holyrood Wilson Garden City. Bucklin •Dodge City... Kingsdown Spearville....... Lane Ottawa Pomona Bichmoud Wells villa Williamsburg. Junction City Gove Grainfleld Grinnell Quinter Hill City Morland Ulysses Cimarron Ensign Horace Climax Eureka Fall River Hamilton Madison Severy Coolidge Syracuse •Anthony Attica Bluff City Freeport Harper Waldron Burrton Halstead Newton. Sedgwick Satanta Sublette Jetmore
Name. Meridian Canopy Hope Longton Moline Apollo Hays Ellsworth Holyrood Samaria Tyrlan Grand View. St. Bernard. Kingsdown.. Spearville Lane Ottawa McKinley.... Richmond... Wellsville Anchor Union Gove City... Grainfleld Grinnell Quinter Millbrook Morland Ulysses Preston Ensign Horace Climax Fidelity Greenwood... Hamilton Madison Twin Grove. Coolidge Syracuse Anthony Attica Stohrville Freeport Harper Waldron Burrton Halstead Newton Sedgwick Satan ta Santa Fe Alpha
No.
126 248 155 26 267 2fl7
195 146 34a 298 240 370 222 447 3SS 339 18 41 426 356 224
302 381 448 410 281 414 283 413 352 411 106 163 301 196 213 316 309 200 262 368 389 206 377 182 46 142 139 446 312 282
1928-29.
GRAND LODGE OF
539
KANSAS.
LIST OF LODGES BY COUNTIES—Continued. Location.
County.
Hoyt
Valley Falls
Name.
Hoyt
Valley Falls
No. 20 419 372 42 327 393 130 240 250 256 23G 2G6 14 415 21 84 178 228 330 11 87 304
Esbon
D e Soto
De Soto
Olathe
Olathe
Spring Hill
Spring Hill
40 127 65 135 19 436 56 444 432 289 427 230 •319 347 378 293 409 399
Edna
69 73 345 218 63 117 279
N i n e Mile K i n g Solomon
Saltville Sylvan G r o v e
Svlvan Grove
305 45 311 49 2 10 68 241 190 59 154 359
540
PROCEEDINGS
OF
THE
February,
LIST OF LODGES BY COUNTIES—Continued. County.
Location.
Name.
No.
Linn..
Blue Mound... La Cygne Mound City... Parker Pleasanton
Lotus La Cygne Mound City.. Parker Eureka
280 61 33 341 88
Logan..
Oakley
Oakley.
253
Lyon...
Allen Americus Emporia Hartford
Allen Americus.. Emporia.T., Hartford...
335 109 12 193
Marion.
Florence Marion Peabody
Advance.. Center Halcyon..
114 147 120
Marshall..
Axtell Beattle Blue Rapids Frankfort Irving Marysville Oketo Summerfleld... Vermillion Waterville
Axtell Beattle Blue Rapids.. Frankfort Blue Valley... Marysville Oketo Summerfleld.. Vermillion Sutton
234 259 • 169 67 112 91 25 354 320
McPherson..
Canton Galva Lindsborg Marquette McPherson Moundridge Windom
Canton Galva Lindsborg Marquette McPherson.... Moundridge.. Windom
197 251 397 358 172 340 270
Meade..
Meade Plains Fontana Louisburg........ Osawatomie Paola
Webb.. Plains..
275 367
Equity Peace Osage Valley. Paola
131 243 24 37
Mitchell.
Beloit Cawker City... Glen Elder Scottsville Simpson
Mt. Vernon... Cawker City.. Glen Elder Scottsville Sincerity
145 125 294 249 214
Montgomery.
CanejCherryvale Coffeyville Elk City Independence.. Tyro
Caney Cherryvale.. Keystone Carson Fortitude Tyro
324 137 102 132 107 386
Morris..
Burdick Council Grove, Delavan Dwight Parkerville White City Wilsey
Burdick Council Grove.. Delavan Dwight Parkerville White City Wilsey
429 36 375 374 168 380 382
Morton..
Elkhart
Elkhart..
Miami..
85
GRAND LODGE OF
l'.J28-29.
541
KANSAS.
LIST OF LODGES BY COUNTIES—Continued. County.
Location.
Goff
Name.
Goff
89 13 430 323 162 39 53 103 416 76 149 239
Erie I^Jess
No.
Walnut Valley
Norton
191 310 181 199
Euclid
79 70 101 22 141 62 270 407 207 204 390 160 180 202 143 1G7
Phillips
175 264 231 184 387 392 34 188 52 75 257
Havcnsville
*'ratt.....
394 265 332
Pratt
164 383
Cable
Rvlvia Turon
Sylvia
299 208 140 445 43 428 391 358
542
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
LIST OF LODGES BY COUNTIES—Continued. County.
Location.
No.
Leonard ville.. Manhattan... Randolph Riley Codell Plainville.. Stockton... LaOrosse McCracken... Rush Center.. Bunker Hill... Lucas Luray Russell Brook vine.. Gypsum Salina
BelleviUe.. Cuba Munden... Narka Republic... Lebanon... Alden Chase Frederick Geneseo Corner Stone.. Royal Sterling Garfield Lafayette.. Farmers.... Ashlar Codell Paradise Newahcuba.. LaCrosse McCracken.... Walnut City.. Beulah Blue Hill Luray Russell Brookville.,,,.,. Gypsum City,, Salina
Scott Sedgwick
Scott City.. Cheney Clearwater Mount Hope... Valley Center.. Wicliita Wichita Wichita Wichita
Anthem Morton Unity Mount Hope Valley Center Sunflower Wichita Albert Pike Bestor G. Brown..
284
Seward.... Shawnee..
Liberal,, Auburn Dover Rossville Silver Lake Topeka Topeka Topeka (North), Topeka Wakarusa Hoxie,.. Selden,,
Fargo Auburn Dover Hesperian Lake Topeka Orient Golden Rule.. Siloam Wakarusa Hoxie... Selden.
300
Sherman
Goodland... Kanorado..
Goodland... Kanorado..
321 443
Smith
Gaylord Kensington Lebanon Smith Center..
Gaylord Kensington Oak Wp^terrt Star
183 405 287 174
Republic.
Bice..
Bitey..
Books Bush Russell....
Saline
Sheridan
Belleville.. Cuba Munden... Narka Republic Scandia.... Alden Cliase Frederick Geneseo Little River.. Lyons Sterling
Name.
129 362 128 349 123 221 308 247 337 361 219 192 171 235 10 160 344 418 290 189 330 58 215 291 198 153 177 209 328 60
258' 273 238 364 86 99 303 433
32 138 111 50 17 51 90 225 402
348 423
GRAND LODGE OF
1928-29.
543
KANSAS.
LIST OP LODGES BY COUNTIES—Concluded. County. Stafford
Name.
Location.
Stafford St. John
Stafford
No.
:i7l 252 254
441 406
Caldwell Milan Oxford
285 173 203 269 255 201 165 157
T KO
Colby
St. Thomas
306 442 148
Maple'Hill
Maple Hill
161 357 205 421 370 417 318
Fraternal Wichita
232 226 170 104 340
Buffalo
Buffalo
118 403 379 57 95 94 81 82 121 144
Eoger E. Sherman West Gate White Church
366 3 271 272 322 333 369 438 385 425 98
Big Springs
Allon
Location.
White Water
Allen
Name.
County.
Allon
Navie.
1SG8 1S57 1878 1884 1868 1885 1896 1903 1927-
1899
1860
1857
1863
1923
Disp. Issued
Feb. Oct. Feb. Feb. Oct. Oct.
Chartered.
Charier Surrendered.
(DEFUNCT.) Charter Revoked.
Eeinarks.
j N o meetings were held, a n d dispensation was r e t u r n e d 1 to the Grand Master.
( A u r a r i a Lodge, it was deemed best t o h a v e b u t one lodge.
(•Dispensation was r e t u r n e d t o G r a n d M a s t e r , with a s t a t e -
( M a s t e r r e p o r t e d t h a t n o meetings h a d been held, a n d s owing t o absence of m e m b e r s , a n d need of s u i t a b l e room, (dispensation was r e t u r n e d .
Remarks.
M a r . 1. 1923 18, 1891 15, 1867 Oct. 2 1 , 1869 I Consolidated with M t . H o p e 18. 1891 1 Lodge N o . 238, F e b . 2,1894. 10, 1887 J a n . 3 , 1912 18, 1859 Oct. J4, 1861 16, 1860 Oct. 2 1 , 1863 ( D r o p p e d from roll a c c o u n t or< ganization G r a n d Lodge of 37 Oct. 15, 1861 ( Colorado in 1862. ( Dispensation issued a s Big ] Springs Lodge, b u t n a m e aftcrOct. 16, 1867 Oct. 19, 1857 9 ( wards changed t o Shawnee.
335 62 25v; 285 26 30
No.
1887 1898 1904 . 1928
1881 1884
1900
1859
Disp. Rev'k'ii.
LODGES
1870
1868 1858
1860
1S66
Disp. Uefri.
CHARTERED
Buckeye Pottawatomie.. Butler White Water
Mcpherson
Loavonwortli...
Leavenworth
Lindsay Opolls
Leavenworth...
Coffey
County.
Delaware
Allon
LocaHo7i.
DEFUNCT LODGES. . LODGES UNDER DISPENSATION, BUT NEVER CHARTERED.
O
Cn
>. a
to
t?i
to o o ta
^3
1^
ladianola
L e a v e n w o r t h ,,. Leavenworth.. . Cavalry....
Indianola..
Shawnee
High Prairie Ida
Golden City..
Golden City
Star Triune Leavenworth.... High Prairie.. Ida
Alpha
F o r t Gibson
Washington
Rising Sun.. 1865
Feb. Feb. Oct. Oct.
1860
/
50 Oct. 16 1866 .
1862.
15 1882 M a y 9, 1919 22 1883 Doc. 17, 1883 18 1859 Dec. 17, 1892 18 •1876 Dec. 17, 1881
34 Oct. 21
69 216 25 170
34 Oct. 16
122 Oct. 16 1872
46 Oct. 17
67 Oct. 20 1868 301 F e b . 15 1888
Franlcfort... Lily
1879 1863 1910
j Consolidated with Halcyon ( L o d g e N o . 120, Oct. 18. 1876.
i Consolidated with Godfrey 1 Lodge N o . 124, M a r . 26, 1894.
1897 h a r t e r issued direct by Grand 1903 )I C Lodge, F e b r u a r y 17, 1898.
fConsoIIdated with Westmore•^land Lodge N o . 257. M a y 18. (.1894.
(• LocationchangedtoSilverLake, Oct. 17, 1877 •(Oct. 2 1 , 1868. N a m e changed (.to G r e a t Light, Oct. 20, 1869. J Consol. with King Solomon 1 Lodge No. 10, Oct. 18, 1876.
( T e r . in 1878. ( D r o p p e d from roll a c c o u n t or•< ganization G r a n d Lodge Color a d o in 1862.
("The lodge r o o m was on t h e second floor of t h e residence of J B r o t h e r Sanders W . M c C o m a s , Oct. 2 1 , 1863 | 2 miles west a n d 2 K miles n o r t h of H o l t o n . T h e r e was l^no t o w n or village. Oct. 18, 1876 i Consolidated with Bluff City 1 Lodge N o . 313, J u n o 18. 1892. (•Consolidated with Bourbon •< LodgoNo. 8,and n a m e changed ( t o Rising Sun Lodge N o . 8. 1 Dropped from roll account or-
F e b . 18, Feb. 20 1889 F e b . 17 1898 F e b . 19, F e b . 19 1890 Sept. 2 1 . 1896 Oct. 21 1874 Oct. 18 1876 . 1883 F e b . 18 1886 .Fan. 17, 1894 Oct. 21 1874 Oct. 20 1870 M a r . 22, 1879 Oct. 21, 1874 Oct. 15. Oct. 18, 1858 Oct. 2 1 , Feb. 21, 1894 F e b . 16,
20 Oct. 16, 1860
313 325 325 153 164 164 148 87 152 12 353
337 F e b . 18. 1891
Elk Creek..
F o r t Scott
Elk City
E d w a r d s ville Emporia
Bluff C i t y Bluff City Ford Bucklin Cato C h a u t a u q u a .... Cedar Vale C h a u t a u q u a .... M y r t l e Butler Whitewater... Douglas .\shlar "Wyandotte Composite.. BreckonridKO... E m p o r i a Dickinson Enterprise..
Bluff C i t y Bluff City Bucklln . Cato Cedar Vale Cedar Vale Clifford .
. .
P o t t a w a t o m i e . . Blaine
Blaine
2,
0)
o b o
b
36
Loulsburg Lyons Evergreen Monticello M t . Pleasant Neosho Rapids...
Nevada
Magnolia..
Valley
Valley Ast.ra Mission..
McPherson.
Miami Rice Labette.... Johnson... Atcliison.. Lyon
Harvey...
Douglas..
Douglas.. Osage Neosho... Miami
Franlilin..
Franlvlin.
Coffey
Miami
LIndsborg
Loulsburg Lyons Montana Monticello M t . Pleasant.. N e o s h o Rapids.
N e v a d a City..
Newton
N . Lawrence..
N . Lawrence.... Olivet Osage Mission..
Ottawa
Ottawa
Ottumwa..
Paola
Osawatomie ....
77
Phoenix
Douglas Montgomery.. Marion
12S 400 11 69
Melody
Ottumwa
Miami
24
30 363 92
30
231
180 192 86 43 58
253
13 123 315
Ottawa
Osage Valley..
Lecompton.. Liberty Linconville.
Charter Revoked.
{
Remarks.
C Dispensation issued as L a n d •j m a r k Lodge, b u t c h a r t e r issued (.in n a m e of St. J o h n ' s Lodge. Oct. 18. 18,58 Oct. 17. 1865 Consol. with K e y s t o n e Lodge Oct. 17, 1872 N o . 102. M a r c h 22. 1918. F e b . 20. Jan. 1. 1896 F i r s t disp'n issued April 7, F e b . 19, 1885 Dec. 5. 1888 1884, recalled by 0.-. M . ' . . second Sept. 27. 1S84. Oct. 10. 1879 Dec. 6. 1894 F e b . 17. 1881 Feb 21. 1895 Oct. 19. 1871 Jan 13. 1888 Oct. 16. 1866 Oct. 20. 1875 Oct. 17, 1867 Feb. 15. 1888 j N a m e changed in 1870 t o Ionic Oct. 2 1 . 1869 Oct. 18. 1879 1 Lodge. ( D r o p p e d from roll account orOct. 15,1861 •<ganization Grand Lodge of (.Colorado in 1S02. Feb. 20 1884 ' Consolidated with Newton 1 Lodge N o . 142, J u n e 28. 1001. Oct. 16.1867 j Consolidated with Lawrence ( L o d g e N o . 6. Oct. 18. 1870. Feb. 16.1882 M a r . 5, 1887 Feb. 20, 1902 Feb. 20. 1908 Oct. 20,1870 'j'an'.'ig!' 1897 f Disp'n issued as Osawatomie Oct. 18. 1859 Oct. 2 1 . 1803< Lodge, b u t cliartered as Osage (.Valley Lodge. Consol. with Franklin Lodge Oct. 17. 1872 N o . 18. N o v . 24. 1900, as O t t a w a Lodge N o . 18. F e b . 2 1 , 1912 j ConsoUdated with Ottawa 1 Lodge N o . 1 8 . N o v . 8. 1928. Oct. 18. 1858 Oct. 18. 1871 ) C h a r t e r revoked Oct. 2 1 . 1863, i b u t restored Oct. 16, 1866, Oct. 2 1 . 1874 ( Consolidated with P a o l a Lodge 1 N o . ,37. Oct. 18. 1870.
Chartered.
26 Oct. 16. 1867 Oct. 19, 1870
Lecompton Liberty Llnconville
Landmarls..
Leavenworth..
No.
Leavenworth..
Name.
County.
Location.
Charter Surrendered.
CHARTERED LODGES (DEFUNCT)—Concluded.
O
Cn
"a.
o o
"0
Oi
en
Winfleld
Walton White Water
Salt L a k e City..
Richfleld
M t . Moriah
Harvey Butler
Winfleld
Walton
Virginia City
Oct. Oct. Feb. Oct. Feb. Feb. 21, 16, 17, 16, 15, 22,
18. 22. 18, 16, 15, 18, 19, 18, 17, 21, 16, 19,
58 F e b . 20,
323 F e b . 19, 280 F e b . 16,
43 Dec. 20,
Feb. Feb. Oct. Oct. Feb. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Oct. Feb.
70 Oct. 21,
216 Perfect Square.... 220 39 54 Shawnee Leavenworth..., Springdale 152 18 Zion 108 Tecumseh 15 Leavenworth.,.. 59 Blooming Grove.. 41 Olive 181 Greenwood Ark 243
Pratt Osage
Crawford Franklin Morton Saline
22 52 ,Owen A, Bassett 367 138 Bichfleld 303 J o h n H , Brown,... 216
Paris
\ Dispensation issued as Lincoln < Lodge, b u t chartered as C e n t e r 1 Lodge.
1862 Oct. 18, 1871 1867 Oct. 17, 1877 ) Consolidated with P i t t s b u r g 1904 1 Lodge N o . 187. J u l y 2 9 , 1 9 1 1 . 1872 N o v . 16. 1901 1888 Feb. 17, 1892 1 Consol. with Salina Lodge N o . 1894 1 60, April 29, 1907. j D r o p p e d from roll account or1868 •{ganization G r a n d Lodge of (.Utah in 1872. 1886 F e b . 17, 1892 1883 F e b . 20. 1908 1863 Oct. 20, 1875 1867 Feb. 22, 1928 1882 Sept. 3, 1887 of dlsp'n having 1859 Oct. 2 1 , 1863 (( bNeoe n record issued. 1871 Sept. 15. 1883 1858 Oct. 2 1 , 1874 1867 J a n . 6, 1887 1863 Dec. 10, 1905 1879 F e b . 18, 1885 1885 J a n . 24, 1902 ( D r o p p e d from roll account or1864 < ganization G r a n d Lodge of ( M o n t a n a in 1866. 1890 Aug. 5, 1895 F e b . 24, 1927 1887 f Consol. with Adelphi Lodge 1889 -^ N o . 110, F e b . 19, 1903, as 1 Winfleld Lodge N o . 110.
69 Oct. 2 1 , 1868 Oct. 17, 1871
ir.
c c
s
C^
548
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
GRAND LODGES IN CORRESPONDENCE WITH THE GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS; ALSO T H E NAMES AND ADDRESSES OF GRAND SECRETARIES. Alabama Arizona
GEORGE A. BEAUCHAMP HARRY A. DRACHMAN
Montgomery. Tucson.
Arkansas
FAY HEMPSTEAD
Little Rock.
California Colorado Connecticut
JOHN WHICHER WILLIAM W . COOPER WINTHROP BUCK
San Francisco. Denver. Hartford.
Delaware
JOHN F . ROBINSON
T
T:.
T,
f P- 0- Box 1227, jwilmington.
District of Columbia... J. CLAUDE KEIPER
Washington.
Florida Georgia Idaho Illinois Indiana
WILBER P. WEBSTER FRANK F . BAKER CURTIS F . P I K E RICHARD C . DAVENPORT WILLIAM H . SWINTZ
Jacksonville. Macon. Boise. Harrisburg. Indianapolis.
Iowa
CHARLES C . HUNT
Cedar Rapids.
Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland
ELMER F . STRAIN FRED W . HARDWICK JOHN A. DAVILLA CHARLES B . DAVIS GEORGE COOK
Topeka. Louisville. New Orleans. Portland. Baltimore.
,,
„
,
„ , ^,
('209 Mas. Temple,
Massachusetts
FREDERICK W . HAMILTON.. J-0^^^^.^
Michigan
L o u B. WiNSOR
Minnesota Mississippi
JOHN FISHEL EDWARD L . FAUCETTE
,,.
.
Missouri Montana
.
..Grand Rapids. St. Paul. Meridian.
,,
(Masonic Temple,
ARTHUR MATHER LUTHER T . HAUBERG
j g ^ Louis Helena, Box 896.
Nebraska
LEWIS E . SMITH
Nevada
FRANK D . KING
^, '
.,.
New Jersey New Mexico
ISAAC CHERRY ALPHBUS A. K E E N
,, , New York North Carolina North Dakota _, .
„ ^ ^, fMasonic Hall, ROBERT J. KENWORTHY....|jjg^ York City. JOHN H . ANDERSON Raleigh. WALTER L . STOCKWELL Fargo. „ „ ., fJlaJonic Tcmplf, East 5tli St.,
Ohio Oklahoma
H A R R Y S. J O H N S O N WILLIAM M . ANDERSON
_,
{Smalfa^'' '^^'"^^^' ,
Reno.
fMasonic Temple, (Trenton Albuquerque.
jcincinnati. Guthrie.
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
549
„ Oregon
„ „ „ D. RuFUS CHENEY
fMasonic Temple, jportland.
Pennsylvania
JOHN A. PERRY
Philadelphia.
Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota
HAROLD L . MCAUSLAN O. FRANK HART GEORGE A. PETTIGREW
Providence. Columbia. Sioux Falls.
Tennessee Texas
STITH M . CAIN WILLIAM B . PEARSON
Nashville. Waco.
Utah
SAM H . GOODWIN
Salt Lake City.
Vermont Virginia
ARCHIE S. HARRIMAN..... JAMES M . CLIPT
Burlington. Richmond.
Washington
HORACE WALTER TYLER
Tacoma.
West Virginia
GEORGE S . LAIDLEY
Wisconsin
WILLIAM F . WEILER
Wyoming
JOSEPH M . LOWNDES
Alberta
J. H. W. S. KEMMIS
British Columbia
W. A. DBWOLF-SMITH
Canada
W M . MCGREGOR LOGAN
Charleston. f 470 Van Buren,
{Milwaukee. Casper.
Calgary. ( P. O. Box 910, -j j ^ ^ ^ Westminster. Hamilton.
("Casilla 2867, Chile
AGUSTIN I. PALMA
.
„
|santiago.
TApartado 61,
Colombia
MIGUEL A. GARCIA
JBarranquilla.
Costa Rica, C. A „ , Cuba
GEORGE F . BOWDEN •, ^ ^ JOSE F. CASTELLANOS
San Jose. (Havana, JApartado 72.
Ecuador
MIGUEL A. JIJON
Guayaquil.
f Freemason Hall, England
P . COLVILLE SMITH
JLondon.
f Apartado 312,
Guatemala
FRANZ MEINDL
Honduras
EMILIO E S P A N A V A L L A D A R E S J - p ^ j
(Planeha No. 64,
Ireland
HENRY C . SHELLARD
Manitoba
JAMES A. OVAS
Mexico (York G.-.L.-.)A. PERCIVAL HUGHES New Brunswick
New South Wales
{Guatemala, C. A.
J. TWINING HARTT
DAVID CUNNINGHAM
I
(Freemason Hall,
- i Dublin.
Winnipeg.
f P. O. Box 1986, "1 Mexico City. St. John.
(Sydney, | castlereagh St.
550
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February,
fP. O. Box 732,
New Zealand
GEORGE BARCLAY
iDunedin.
Nova Scotia
JAMES C . JONES
Halifax.
Panama
MACARIO SOLIS
Panama.
Peru
ALEJANDRO ALAYZA P . - S
i^?'^ ^°^^^° ^ * -
Philippine Islands
NEWTON C . COMFORT
-j ^
Prince Edward Isl T. 4. T^Puerto Rico
ERNEST KEMP T r. rr. JOSE G . T O R R E S
Charlottetown. fP. 0 . Box 747, ir, T (San Juan.
TTT -CTT
f P- 0- BOX
(Lima.
«
V
TTT
'..
Quebec
W. WALTER WILLIAMSON....-] M Q t
Queensland
CHARLES H . HARLEY
„ , , _ . Salvador. C. A Saskatchewan
. ^ AMERICO ORIANI W. B. TATE
Scotland
THOMAS G . WINNING
^
'
3172,
al
Brisbane, Box 675.
fSan Salvador, (Masonic Temple. Regina. Edinburgh. I A fi PI 3.1 n 6
South Australia
CHARLES R . J. GLOVER
-j ^
m
-r^T „
f 117 Macquarie St.,
.
„
,, rp'
Tasmania
W. H. STRUTT
Victoria
WILLIAM STEWART
-j TTQI^ ^^
Melbourne.
Western Australia
J. D. STEVENSON
Perth.
GRAND
1928-29.
LODGE
OF
551
KANSAS.
GRAND REPRESENTATIVES OF T H E GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS NEAR OTHER GRAND LODGES. Alabama Alberta Arizona Arkansas British Columbia California Canada Chile Colombia Colorado Connecticut Costa Rica Cuba Delaware
Florence. R.-. W.- ENCY F . YEILDING Calgary. R.-. W.-.S. J. BLAIE .JAMES H . BARRETT Douglas. M.'. W..Louis BAUERLEIN Camden. M.-. W.M.-. W.-.ANDREW MCC. CREERY { J a T S c h a r d s St. System not recognized. „ „ „ f Box 97, Trenton, R.-. W.' .R. H. SPENCER -i Ontario. ^ (Santiago, R.-. W. .MAXIMIANO FLORES jcasiUa 2895. ^ fApartado 72, R.-. W.•.VIRGILIO DE LA CRUZ ..•• "[Barranquilla. Denver. R.-. W.•.WILLIAM H . SANFORD R.-. W.•.HOWARD A. MIDDLETON,,..Broad Brook. San Jose. R.-. W.•. ADOLFO CANAS Havana. R.-. W.•.FELIX V. PREVAL Wilmington. M.-.W.' .A. VICTOR HUGHES
District of Columbia ..R.-. W.-.ARTHUR L . BRYANT
( Care I. Gazmiii & Hijos. '.J. GABRIEL PINO ROCA.. < Apartado letra "Q",
Ecuador
R.-. W.-
( Guayaquil. KYNASTON STUDD
England Florida
R.-.W.-. R.-. W.' .HARRY B . MINIUM R.-. W.- .P. T. McCuTCHEN „ „ R.-. W.- .SAMUEL E . FRANCO
Georgia Guatemala Honduras
{^fqltrN-W.
.'.
R.-. W.-
I f Harley St., (^London, W. 1. Jacksonville.
Franklin. ( Pasaje Aguirre
•iNo.3,Guatemala. .FEDERICO C. CANALES....iSa^*^^^Rosa de
•.SHERMAN M . COFFIN
Boise.
Idaho
M.-.W.
Illinois Indiana Iowa Ireland
R.-.W.-..Gi^NN GRISWOLD R.-. W .RUDOLF H . HORST System not recognized. „^ R.-. W.'.RICHARD W A L S H
Kentucky Louisiana Maine Manitoba! Maryland.'
M.-.W. •. FliANK C. GERARD Bowling Green. R.-. W.''.WILLIAM M . GUICE, jR....Shreveport. Lewiston. R.-. W.' .ARCHIE L . TALBOT Winnipeg. M.-.W.' .JABBZ MILLER Frederick. R.-. W.•.JACOB ROHRBACH
„
^
f Chicago, 1^2 E. Grand Ave. South Bend.
i Dublin. 7 Emor |
g^^ g ^ ^ ^
552
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February;
Massachusetts Mexico (York G.-. L /.) M /. ,W /.
^ ^^ JOHN I. NEWELL
fApartado No. 40, jxampico.
Michigan
R.'. W.: WM. H . GALLAGHER
Minnesota Mississippi Missouri
R.-. W.:.MONTREVILLEj.BROWNJgog^tlj'^^ g. E. R-.'. W /.ROBERT W . HINTON, jR...Lumberton. RoUa. R.: W.•. CHARLES L . WOODS
Montana
M.'. W.' . R O B E R T J . HATHAWAY...||3^^^J;^^J;<='^J,^*-'
Nebraska Nevada New Brunswick New Jersey
R/. R.-. R.\ R.'.
New Mexico New South Wales New York
System not recognized. R.-. W.-ALFRED J. BURBIDGE R.-. W/.ALBERT C . BURDICK
Allegan.
Hastings. W.:. H E N R Y H . H E I L E R W.: CHARLES A. THOMPSON ...Pioche. Dorchester. W.: GESNER A . TAYLOR f49 Prospect St., W.-.ARTHUR POTTEBTON j j ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ity. Sydney. Lowville.
Philippine Islands
f P. O. BOX 2, R.-. W / .EARNEST WARNES JGreymouth. R.-. W.-, . GRADY J. SHEPHERD Greensboro. R.-. W.'. H A N S A. M O E Churchs Ferry. R.'. W.-. J O H N G . MITCHELL Halifax. M.-.W.'•. CHARLES L . MINOR Springfield. R.". W.-. MAHLON F . MANVILLE ....Ada. R.-. W.-.WALTER 0 . HAINES Portland. R.'. W.-.ABRAHAM FRANKEL Colon. System not recognized. . T, fCity Hall, R.'. W.
Prince Edward Isl Puerto Rico Quebec Queensland Rhode Island Salvador
R.-. W.-.WILLIAM G . MCDONALD..Montague. R.-. W.-•.FEDERICO VALL-SPlNOSA..San Juan. -.EDWARD A. EVANS Quebec. M.-. W.„ „ fBrisbane, R.'. W.-.JAMES C . ROBERTS (Adelaide St. R.-. W.-.JOHN R . DENNIS Providence. Sonsonate. R.". W.'-. RAMON QUESADA
Saskatchewan
R.'. W.-
Scotland
R.-. W.-.J. S. M. GRIEVE.
New Zealand North Carolina.... North Dakota Nova Scotia Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Panama. Pennsylvania
-.HARVEY A. BoRDNER....|j^j^j^i,3
.W. M. MARTIN
,
„ „
^
Regina.
fThe Frond, juddingston.
South Carolina South Dakota
( Adelaide, R.'. W.•. WILLIAM HENRY ESSEX < Bank of Adelaide, ( King •William St. R.-. W.--. M. A. LANFORD Woodruff. Castlewood. R.-. W.-.JAMES B . VAUGHN
Tasmania
R.-. W.'.DAVID W . W A T S O N
South Australia
(nobart.
'
1928-29.
Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Victoria Virginia Washington
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
553
Nashville. R/. W.' . HALLUM W . GOODLOE Ft. Worth. M/.W.' . J E W E L P . LIGHTFOOT Salt Lake City. M.-.W: .ARTHUR C . WHERRY.. Burlington. M.-.W. .HENRY H . R O S S . (74 Moor St., R.-. W.'. EDWARD THOMAS APPS.. -j pj^^roy
Western Australia
Richmond. R.'. W.'.HENRY M . BOYKIN R.'. W.' .WALTER J. THOMPSON ....Tacoma. „ „ „ (294 Nicholson R.'. W.'.FRED S. FINCH \^^^^^ ^^^.^^^
West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming
R/. W.-. P A R E H . LORENTZ M.-.W.' .DAVID HARLOWS System not recognized.
Buckhannon. Milwaukee.
554
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
• February,
GRAND REPRESENTATIVES OF OTHER GRAND LODGES NEAR THE GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS. Alabama R.-. W / . J O H N M . KINKEL Topeka. Alberta W / . P A U L M . MARTIN Highland. Arizona . Arkansas W.'. CLAYTON LEHMAN Newton. British Columbia W.'. A. PHILLIP LAPHAM Wetmore. California M.-.W.-. WM. EASTON HUTCHISON Garden City. Canada W.".GEORGE 0 . FOSTER.. Lawrence. Chile W . - . F R E D ROY ALFORD Fort Scott. Colombia W.-.ELLSWORTH B . SEWELL, JR....Topeka. Colorado W.-. LAUREN D . RIGG Leon. Connecticut W.'. CLARENCE R . ATEN Dodge City. Costa Rica W.-.AUSTIN J. PAIGE Abilene. Cuba ...W.-.ROY H. CLOSSEN Coffeyville. Delaware W.-. ELMER S. NANCE Oswego. Dist. of Columbia.M.'.W.'.FERRis M. HILL.. Emporia. Ecuador...
R.-. W . - . J A Y B. KIRK
Ida.
England...... Florida
R.'. W.'.ALBERT K . WILSON M.-.W.-.ELMER F . STRAIN
Topeka. Topeka.
Georgia
W.-. CLICK FOCKELE
Le Roy.
Guatemala.. Honduras... Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Ireland Kentucky Louisiana Maine Manitoba Maryland Massachusetts
W.-.LUCIAN L . CONSTANT W.-. FRANK D . SPERRY W.-. STEPHEN A. D. GEAUQUE M.-.W.-.CHARLES N . FOWLER M.-.W.-.OWEN J. WOOD System not recognized. W.-.JOHN DAVIS W . - . R O B E R T H . MONTGOMERY W.-. HOMER T . HARDEN M.-.W.-.RICHARD E . BIRD W.-. HARRY B . GRAHAM W.-. MOSES H . COLE M.-.W.-.WILLIAM L . BURDICK
Belle Plaine. Ellsworth. Manhattan. SaHna. Topeka.
^?L-T°'^} Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Brunswick
•^•'' '^•••^^''™'' K- ^ ' ' ^ ^ o ^ Topeka. R.-. W.-. J. FORREST AYRES Greenleaf. W.-. CLARENCE E. FARNSwoRTH....Hoisii)gton. W.-. EDWIN C . EAGLES Cherryvale. M.-. W.-.PERRY M . HOISINGTON Newton. W.-. JAMES H . BEEGLE Neodesha. W.-.EARL T . PYLE Clay Center. W.-. WILLIAM B . PENNY Cottonwood Palls. W.-. HARRY E . PEACH Emporia.
Belleville. Oswego. Wichita. Wichita. Haven. Harper. Lawrence.
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
New New New New
Jersey W/.GuY W. BROWN Mexico System not recognized. South Wales W.-.HARMON J. BOWER York M.-.W.-.GEORGE F . BEEZLEY „ New Zealand W.-.FRANK E . DAVIS North Carolina W.-.R. NELSON LONG North Dakota W.-. BRUCE GRIFFITH Nova Scotia M.-.W.-.JOHN MCCULLAGH
555
Beloit. ,Norton. Girard. (Kansas City, Mo., jg^gg Wyandotte St. Hoxie. Wichita. Galena.
Ohio
!w.-.PHILIP EUGENE S T 0 T L E a | g g ^ ^ g ^ - ^ ° - ^ '
Oklahoma Oregon Panama
W.-. DAVID A. NYWALL W.-. CHARLEY B . ERSKINE W.-. JAMES A. CASSLER
Pennsylvania Philippine Islands Prince Edward Isl Puerto Rico Quebec
Queensland Rhode Island Salvador.. Saskatchewan
...System not recognized. W.-.ROY G . SHEARER W.-. MARION M. MILLER W.-.EDGAR T . FOSTER W.-. CHARLES E . KESLER
M - . W . - . E L R I C K C . COLE R.-. W.-. W M . FRANK MARCH W.-. BENJAMIN F . H E I S W.-.JOHN B . FLEMING
Formoso. Cimarron. McPherson.
Abilene. Longton. Colony. Williamsburg.
Great Bend. Lawrence. Leavenworth. Hamilton.
Scotland South Australia South Carolina South Dakota
W.-.HARVEY O . DAVIS W.-.RICHARD W . EVANS W.-.OTTO R . SOUDERS M.-.W.-.CHARLES A. LOUCKS
Anthony. Dodge City. Wichita. Lakin.
Tasmania
M . - . W . - . B E N S. PAULEN
Fredonia.
Tennessee Texas Utah
W.-.HUBERT H . HUBBARD M.-.W.-.GILES H . LAMB W.-. HAYES FLOYD
Galena. Yates Center. Ness City.
Vermont Victoria Virginia Washington
W.-. HENRY WALLENSTEIN W.-. CLARENCE M . CROSBY W.-.BARLUS ROMSTEDT.,..: W.-.STANFORD M . SMART
Western Australia M.-.W.-.THOMAS G . FITCH West Virginia :...M.-. W.-. JOHN W . NEILSON Wisconsin W.-.GuY R. CURRIER Wyoming System not recognized.
Wichita. St. Francis. Ottawa. Zenda.
Wichita. Concordia. Kensington.
APPOINTIVE GRAND OFFICERS, 1928. (2 ) J . FORIlEST AYIlE , rand Sernor Deacon ; (3 ) R OSCOE E . P ETEIlSON, Grand Jurnor D eacon ; (4 ) BENJAMIN F . H mB, Grand Marshal; (5 ) GROVER C. IlBANSKY, G rand Sword BEarer; (6 ) lAIlENCE M . CIlO BY, Grand Sernor teward ; (7 ) J 08EPH C. HART , Grand Junior teward ; () H OMER T . HARDEN, Grand Pursuivan t ; (9 ) W . AlItER B CRNETT, Grand Tyler . (1 ) FRED E . BROOKS , G rand Chap lain ;
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH
M.-.W.-. FERRIS MOORE HILL, GnAND MASTER OF MASONS OF KANSAS, FEBRUARY 23, 1928 TO FEBRUARY 21, 1929.
BY BROTHER CHARLES W. CLEAVER.
It is with pleasure I answer the call of our Most Worshipful Grand Master, FERRIS M . HILL, to write a sketch of a life of which I have some knowledge. It is an honor as well, because of the long friendship that has existed between us. We have agreed on many points and disagreed on many others. However, if we all believed alike life would be a drab and somewhat uninteresting experience and so we have enjoyed our little differences of opinion which were never vital. FERRIS was born in Niles,. Michigan, December 21, 1881. His parents, Mr. and Mrs. R. P. HILL were GoD-fearing people, living a beautiful life together and from them many of his attributes come. The family moved to Emporia, Kansas, from Michigan in 1884. He was a normal, healthy boy; attended school in Emporia, ran with his "gang", played baseball on the town lots, and I imagine played "hookey" and went swimming when the opportunity offered and his conscience permitted. He grew into a splendid young manhood, suffered all the privations of a somewhat pioneer existence and finally came into the heritage of a manly, clean, honest life, looking into the future with the hopes and fears of thousands of American boys, dreaming dreams that all should be his as the years should come to him. Then he met the "Only Girl", and in time he and Miss M W N I E THEIS stood up before the man of GOD, and pledged each other until the end should come. These two faced life together with a smile and a belief that all good things would come to them and that life would be as near perfect as possible in this big world. Many of their dreams have come true, some have fallen by the wayside but life is still sweet to them and happiness is theirs. They have one son, PHILLIP, who is growing up in the footsteps of his father. A young man now entering into his majority and father and mother are justly proud of their son.
558
PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
February.
Brother HILL became interested in Masonry when he was one of that great body of men who travelled our country known as "Traveling Salesmen". He represented J. P.MORGAN Jewelry Company of Dallas, Texas. In his travels he came in contact with members of our Great Fraternity and its wonderful effects upon the lives of men and on his return to Emporia he became a member of Emporia Lodge No. 12. He never sought public office, being content with his home life, his Masonry, and his business. Brother HILL entered business in Emporia in 1908. MASONIC RECORD. ANCIENT CRAFT MASONRY. EMPORIA LODGE N O . 12, EMPORIA, KANSAS:
Initiated, February 8, 1912. Passed, March 11, 1912. Raised, April 10, 1912. Senior Steward, 1913. Junior Deacon, 1914. Senior Deacon, 1915. Junior Warden, 1916. Senior Warden, 1917. Master, 1918. GRAND LODGE:
Grand Senior Deacon, 1924. Grand Junior Warden, 1925; Grand Senior Warden, 1926. Deputy Grand Master, 1927. Grand Master, 1928. District Deputy Grand Master, 1919. Committee Service. Commissioners of Trials:
Member, 1927.
CAPITULAR. EMPORIA CHAPTER N O . 12, EMPORIA, KANSAS:
Mark Master, May 15, 1912. Past Master, May 22, 1912. Most Excellent Master, May 22, 1912. Royal Arch, May 29, 1912. Captain of the Host, 1920. Scribe, 1921.
1928-29.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
559
CRYPTIC. EMPORIA COUNCIL N O . 7, EMPORIA, KANSAS:
Royal Master, November 20, 1912. Select Master, November 20, 1912. Super Excellent Master, April 16, 1913. Steward, 1914. Captain of the Guard, 1915. Principal Conductor of Work, 1916, 1917. Deputy Master, 1918. Master, 1919, 1920. GRAND COUNCIL:
Committee Service. Committee on New Councils:
Member, 1919.
CHRISTIAN KNIGHTHOOD. EMPORIA COMMANDERY N O . 8, EMPORIA, KANSAS:
Red^Cross, September 9, 1912. Knigtits Templar, October 6, 1912. Knights of Malta, January 5, 1913. Sword Bearer, 1913. Standard Bearer, 1914. Junior Warden, 1915. Senior Warden, 1916. Captain General, 1917. Generalissimo, 1918. Commander, 1919. GRAND COMMANDERY:
Committee Service. Committee on Correspondence: Member, 1919. Committee on Jurisprudence: Member, 1919. Committee on Reports of Grand Officers: Member, 1927, 1928.
PROCEEDINGS OP THE
ASSOCIATION O F PAST GRAND MASTERS OF THE
M.-.W.-. GRAND LODGE OF A. F. & A. M. OF KANSAS.
WICHITA, KANSAS,
February 19, 1929.
The twenty-fifth Annual Meeting of the Association of Past Grand Masters of The M.-. W.-. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas, was held in a private dining room of the Wichita Glub at 6:30 P. M. of the above date, with the following members present: M .W.-. M. . W.-. M. . W.-. M. . W.-. M. . W.-. M. . W.-. M. . W.-. M. . W.-. M. . W.'. M.' W.-. M.' W.'. M.- W.-. M.-.W.-.
PERRY M . HOISINGTON THOMAS G . FITCH THOMAS L . BOND WILLIAM EASTON HUTCHISON ELRICK C . COLE WILLIAM L . BURDICK G I L E S H . LAMB
-...Grand Grand Grand Grand Grand Grand Grand
Master, Master, Master, Master, Master, Master, Master,
1901 1904 1906 1912 1913 1915 1916
B E N S . PAULEN
Grand Master, 1921
JOHN MCCULLAGH ELMER F. STRAIN CHARLES A. LOUCKS JOHN W . NEILSON.'.
Grand Grand Grand Grand
CHARLES N . FOWLER
Grand Master, 1927
Master, 1922 Master, 1924 Master, 1925 Master., 1926
M.-.W.-. ELMER F . STRAIN, as Venerable President, presided and opened the Table Lodge. M.-.W.-.FERRIS M . HILL, Grand Master of the M.-. W.-. Grand Lodge of Kansas, was unanimously elected to
1928-29.
GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS.
561
membership, and the attributes of the Association were conferred upon him by the Venerable President. Letters of regret at inability to be present were received and read from M/. W/. MARION K . BRUNDAGE and M.-. W.-. OWEN J. WOOD.
After enjoying a splendid dinner provided by the Steward, a number of subjects of importance to the Craft were discussed. In accordance with the constitution, M.-.W.". CHARLES A. LOUCKS was chosen as Venerable President, and M.-. W.-. FERRIS M . H I L L as Steward, for the ensuing year. M.-. W.-. ELRICK C . COLE was elected Secretary for the ensuing year. The Table Lodge was then closed until the next Annual Meeting,. unless sooner convened by the Venerable President. ELRICK C . COLE,
Secretary.
r In iM^mormm. Sacred to the IRlemorv of
©ur :Beloved Bead within this ITurisdiction.
ifati|0 iurtttg tl|p f par 1923. Smilhlorx A'o. 1.—John T. Thorpe, Nov. 1. Leavenworth No. S.^William T. Beeler. Oct. 26; W. David Cohn, ——, 1927; Benjamin R. Coffin, Aug. 22; Floyd "W. Collins, Jan. 10; Jerome A. Chalmers, Aug. lb; Edward E. Murphy, Nov. 23; Grant Parker, Aug. 29; Charles H. Peet, Feb. 3; Noah A. P u d e r b a u g h . J u l y 3; Daniel J. Vermilyea, Nov. 5. • Wyandotte No. 3.—^Samuel B. McCuUough, Feb. 16; George E. Snyder, Feb. 17; Craig H. Dallas, March 4; Elmer .L. Zeller, June 23; William A, Corlew, Aug. 24; Clyde A. Reed, Sept. 30; .TuUus H. Levine, Oct. 9; John L. B. Eager, Oct. 19; Charles E. Kinsey, Nov. 2; Fred C. Aechternacht, Nov. 4; George L. Maegly, Nov. 2; Leonidas W. Myers, Dec. 15; Frank E. Leach, Dec. 16; William B. Taylor, Dec. 19; LeRoy T. Mace, Dec. 22; Arthur L. Fuhrman, Dec. 24; David D. Jones, Dec. 24. Kickapoo No. i.- -Frank Manion, Andrew J. Henderson, March 23. Washington No. 5.—Horace M. Sheeks, Oct. 22; Fred C. Snyder, • Jan. 6; Robert M. Vermillion, Oct. 22. Lawrence No. 6.—Charles W. Carman, July 16; Eben P. Crocker, June 14; James O. Holloway, Oct. 27; George K. Mackie, June 15; Harry Reding, July 4; Harry A. Sibley, Nov. 21. Union No. 7.—-Henry G. Seitz, Feb. 15; George W. Reppart, March 19; Henry M. Stefler, April 8; John McKenzie, April 14; William G. Behrend, April 17: Henry C. Ward, Sept. 14; Fred R. Brink, Nov. 16; William lllingsworth,' Dec. 21. Rising Sun No. 8.—-Dudley Bishard, Sept. S; Edwin P. Bowen, March 30; Harry L. Cassell, May 1; Andrew M. Dick, May 2: CharlesH.Finley, April 10; Daniel L. Po-t, Nov. 20; Fred E. Hawthorne, June 11; Doyle C. Hooper, Sept. 1; Keith Keeling, June 7; Elmer H. Lowery, Oct. 29; Edward B. Payne, Jan. 4; Leo A. Thogmartin, July 4; George H. Wittram, June 20. Acacia No. 9.—-Allyn Boughton, .Tune 6; Julius E. Cook, April 16; Niels Oksen Jensen, Sept. 12; Earl H, Marshall, Jan. 30; Ray E. Merwin, Nov. 25; Peter H. Weeks, Oct. 3; Burton L. Wolfe, Oct. IS. King Solomon No. 10.—-Charles F. Greever, March 7; Nova Z. Walhng, April 8; Albert A. Trocon, May 8; Eugene V.. Henderson. Dec. 29. Emporia No. 12.—Martin V. Cagney, May 11; Henry W. Hedgecock, Nov. 9; (William R. Irwin, Oct. 30; .Tames T. I\irkendall, .Tuly 24; Albert E. Kraum. Dec. 15; Thomas H. Lewis, April 11; Horace R. Luce. Dec. 6; Jacob Olinger, Sept. 29; Eugene A. Perrine, Aug. 14; Harry G. Walker, Sept. 28; Daniel D. Williams. Mav 31; HuRh J. Williams, June 3; Paul F. WiUiams, Jan. 23; Absolom B. Wood, Dec. 25.
DEATHS—Continued. Nemaha No. IS.—Oliver W. Ort, March 1; Albert K. Wood, Nov. 6. Oskaloosa No. IJ/.—-David Cook, May. 6; Wilbur F. Leech, Nov. 2S. Great Bend No. 15.—Paul J. Pascoe, Jr., April 13. Lafayette No. 16.—Cecil G. Anderson, May 19; Robert M. Forrester, June 24; George Hansen, Nov. 17; Peter C. Hostrup, J a n . 30; Oliver D. Shide, April 20; Edwin H. Webster, Aug. 25. Topeka No. 17.—Thomas A. Beck, July 4; William Bolinger, Aug. 29; F.dwin E. Brookens, Sept. 22; James P. Burton, Jan. H ; Charles G. Dodds, Dec. 29; Joseph J. Downie, Oct. 7; Edward C. Garvey, Dec. 19: Philip A. Huber, Oct. 30; George M. O'Bleness, March 0; Clarence A. Reece, Nov. 28; Earl C. Reece, July 7; Samuel R. Ritchie, Feb. 15; Charles W. Schwartz, Aug. 17; Edgar A. Shoaf, Sept. 12; William F. Short. Sept. 17; Andrew Smith, May 7; Emmett Whipple, June 1. Ottawa No. IS.—Lyman W. Aldrich, Dec. 15; Edward H. Becker Nov. 22: Albert L. Bell. June 4; Harry A. Dunn, June 1 George W. Miller, March 4; Percival R. Moise, March 13 J a y Ward Smith, Nov. 17; James H. Vogan, Oct. 4. Olathe No. 10.—August S. Alferman, Aug. 3: Franklin P. Hatfield, Oct. 17; Harvey C. Livermore, Dec. 1; Jonathan W. Parker, Feb. 27. Circleville No. SO.—William R. Anderson, May 19; Michael H. Roller, Dec. 31. Melvern No. ii.—Johnathan Ashby, June 27; Ben Cuttell, Oct. 4. • Palmyra No. 2S.—Charles N. Bailey, .July 13; William F. Corkhill. .Ian. 18; John N . McKinney, June 4; William D. Shike, Nov. 26. Osage Valley No. 2Jf.—.John W. Arnold. May 31; Joel A. Barker, Nov. 19; John C. Chestnut, July 22; Russel B. Dolan. Aug. 7; James Ewing, Dec. 20; D. Wilson Hays, July 1; Claude A. McConnell. July 4; Henry A. Stanley, July 7; Jesse 0 . VanVoorhis, Jan. 23. Oketo No. 25.—August Weuster, Jan. 21; William H. Warren, Feb. 8; AVilber W. White, Sept. 19. Longton No. 2fi.—William H. McKay, March 5; Oliver H. Worlev, June 25; .lames P. .Shonks, Sept. 23; Lincoln H. Tate, Dec. 2. Neosho No. 27.—John W. Beard, March 19. Pacific No. 29.—J. O. Hottenstine, .July 14; E. J. Morgan, Sept. 26; Frank Morrison, Feb. 5; Madison D. Stout, April 29. Towanda No. SO.—Charles C. Armatage, Dec. 17; Louis T. Harland, Nov. 25; Robert H. Menefee, Nov. 23. • Auburn No. 3S.—Cloyce Benedict, May 16; William A. Carriger, March 27. Mound City No. 33.—Omer O. Leamon, July 18.
DEATHS—Continued. HavensviUe No. SI,.—-William Milton Proctor, March 8; Hugh W. Rawlings, Nov. 13; Joshua B. Shumate, May 1. Hiawatha No. S5.—Niels Hansen. Nov. 22: William A, McKee, May 22; David R. Smith, March 28; Charles .S. Tapscott, June 19. Council Grove No. 36.—Charles A. Ashley, Nov. 3. Paola No.37.—-George W. Hamlin, Jan, 25; James W. Tallman, May 15; Albert W. Oldham, July 27; Leo. W. Edmondson, Nov. 4. lola No. 3S.—George C. Dalgarno, June 13; Peter T. Hamilton. April 16; Clark E. Riggs, Oct. 14; Charles R. Sucher, June 13; Edward E. Wright, Oct. 17. Seneca iVo.39.—William E. Puller, Feb. 4; Paul J. Allen. April 14. Holton No. ifZ.—^Valentine V. Adamson, Aug. 12; W. S. Gleason, Oct. 2; James H. Wills, March 14. Nickerson No. 43.—-Justin B. Cook, Jan. 20; David YanHorn, June 27. Delphian No. J,Jf.—Abram B. Currier, June 8; John G. Johnson, June 17; Manford Schoonover, Feb. 23. Xenia No. },7.—George W. Leffler, —•—-; William G. Verner, Dec. 30. Mackey No. J,S.—Peter R. Moore, March 7; Ulysses B. Sharpless, June 16, Nine Mile No. h^.—John Fleming, March 15; Fred Frey, May 18; Martin Karr, Aug. 27; Garland H. Wasson, March 29. Lake No. SO.—-Robert M. Forbes, May 19; Lincoln H. Neiswender, Sept. 20; Charles J. McCoid, Nov. 1. Orient No. 51.—Allen A. Alderfer, June 8; James W. Bates, March 10; Walter L. Bates, Dec. 13; Thomas E. Black-well, Nov. , 1926; Gaylord B. Blank, April 2; Carl O. Burgen, Dec. 10; William W. Flenniken, Oct. 30; Daniel C. Harbaugh, Jan. 8; Russell M. Harris, Dec. 13; William Horley, Dec. 10; Walter L. Hummel, Sept. 24; Jason K. Jones, Nov. 23; Joseph B. Keith, Dec. 1; Edgar A. Kesler, June 17; Francis Mawhirter, Sept. 29; Jay ti. Mills, June •28; Nels Otto Nelson, Sept. 20; Harry B. North, April 23; Jesse L. Ransopher, Dec. 25; Benjamin J. Sharrock, Sept. 16; Wilbert L. Stark, Sept. 11; Benjamin F. Sumey, March 6; Charles E. Tillson, March 5; Robert L. Titus, Sept. 22; Richard J. White, March 3 1 ; John T. Williams, Feb. 20. Wetmore No. S3.—Winfleld S. Locknane, Aug. 16. Troy No. 55.—-Alfred R. Sturgis, June 6. Spring Hill No. 56.—-Julius L. Officer, Oct. 5; Carl O. Thomas, April 12. Coyville No. 57.—^Henry King, ; Ernest E. Northup, ; Cyrus Williams, . McCracken No. 5S.-Henry F. Wray, Sept. 4.
r . DEATHS—Continued. Sallville No. 59.—•"William J. Tatum, Jan. 31. Salina No. 60.'—Walter H. Clark, Aug. 10; Edgar Edwin Holly, DeQ. 19; Claarles W. Pfiillips, July 30; George Ripke, June 30; Fred L. Spence, Dec. 3; Thomas B, Vallette, Nov. 23; Almou W. "Weburg, Nov. 24. La Cygne No. 01.—Charles J. Plumb, July 18. , Ridgcway No. 62.—George Bowman, Feb. 1; Frank H. Ernest, June 20; Basil Headington, Nov. 19; Wilham M. Hopkins, Oct. 3; Charles McCollough, May 28. Adams No. 63.—Robert O. Deming, Dec. 7; Wood Griffin, Aug. 30; Horace C. Oliver, June 11;- Robert W. Slane, Nov. 20; Mathew E. Sullivan, Dec. 19; William F. Thorne, April 15; George W. Tilton, Oct. 7. Gardner No. 65.—Tom Mason, March 25; Henry A. Pasloy, May 7; Hugh Pugh, Sr., July 12; Henry Young, Aug. 7. Burlington No. 66.—-William Schwartz, June 18; Harry C. Stephenson, Sept. 23. Ftankfort N'c. 67.—George P. Bonnell, Feb. 8; William C. Burkes, Feb. 6; Charles W. Campbell, April-5; .Tames M. Lane, Nov. 22; George W. Morton, Oct. 0. Hiram No. 68.—Louis Samuel, Jan. 1; George W. Leak, May 7; Edward E. Collins, Sr., June 9; Charles M. Ettenson, June 15; Albert I. Levene, Aug. 8; Herman Ittner, Aug. 21; William E . Perry, Oct. 15; Artie E. Dodson, Oct. 19; Eugene Angelman, Nov. 3; William B. Tracy, Nov. 24; John H. Klnnaman, Nov. 25. AUamont No. 69:—Joshua Graham, Dec. 26; Earnest Minnick, N o v . -5.
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- Carbondale No. 70.—-Labrum B. Ross, May 30. Baxter No.'71.—Andrew J. Davidson, Dec. o. Chetopa No. 7.5.—Charles G. Horn, Nov. 18; William Jackmah, Dec. 13. Mystic Tie No. 71/.—Oliver J. Adams; Jan. 24: Lewis M. Byerly, Dec. 27; John C. Haines, Sept. 7; WiUiam A. Hall, Sept. 13; Robert J. Jenkins, July 30; George W. Long, April 30; Harley R. Williamson, Aug. 20; James Wilson, Aug. 30. • Wamego No. 75.—.James F. Seacord, Feb. 16; .John ]M. Crawford, March 12; Forest G. Leach, Oct. 15. Erie No. 76.—Sam K. M. Schriver. Feb. 5; Charles W. Means, April 25; Harry N. Baldwin, May 3. Delta No. 7?.—Howard E. Stone, Sept. 3; John B. Fairley, Sr., Nov. 4; John T. McGrath, Nov. S. • White Cloud No. 78.—George W. Delaware, Dec. 2; Morgan S. Mauck, Dec. 20. ' Corinthian No. 79.—Harry T. Beale, July 5: Leslie Garringer, Jan. 12; John McPhillaraev, Oct. 6; Edward Ij. Smith, Nov. 19.
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DEATHS—Continued. Zeredaiha No.-80.—^Jacob W. Holsinger, April 15.. • Jefferson No. Slf.—Ephriam.F.
Lytle, Feb. 2.
Sutton No. 85.—James W. Stewart, June 23. Sunflower No. 86.—William D. Cannon, Aug. 5; Louis F . Day, Feb. 5; Harry F. Dean, Feb. 2; Harry O. Harrison, April 1; Ferdinand Holm, Feb. 4; Claud Jackson, Sr., March 16; Herman M. Long, Nov. 30; .Thomas B. Owens, Oct. 14; Henry S. Speer, July 7; John A. Stewart, Nov. 24; Edward M. Tomia, No'v. 4; Jerome Turley, April 28. . Mankato No. 87.—-Joseph H, Woollen, March 2. Eureka No. 88.—Curtis C. Goss, Nov. 10; ^William H . Rees, Dec. 17. Home No. 89.—Sylvester Root,. Dec. 18. Golden Rule No. 90.—Charles L. Heywood, Jan. 10; Harry L. Wilkerson, Jan. 31; Edward Schmidt, Feb. 13; Edward S. Currier, Feb. 23; Charles McDonald, May 23; Jesse S. Majors, .June 23; Edward D. Sherman, Sept. 5; James W. McCauley, Sept. 10; Corydon C^ Smith, Sept. 23; Alfred C. Sloan, Dec. 21. Marysville No. 91.—Thomas W. Temple, July 10; Alex Spence, July 10; William F. Kelly, July 11; Glen B. Kirkwood, Aug. 7; William J. Kinsley, Oct. 6; Henry Ziegler, Nov. 16. - Girard No. 95.—-Arthur Fuller,'Sept. 2; Janes S. Burk, Aug. 12; David Kennedy, Ajjril 2. . Harmony No.9lf.—^John C. McDonald, May 20; Anderson M. Sharp, Oct. 30; Hines Woodring, Dec. 14; Charles W. Shlnn, Dec. 15. • Constellation No. 95.—Orange W. Romig, Dec. 19. Patmos No. 97.—-Huston B. Smith, Jan. 31; Martin Vaught, Feb. 16; Otis E. Sadler, April 27; Charles Wilfred Price, Nov. 27; Louis J. Miller, Nov. 10. Benevolent No. 98.—Charles B. Avery, Feb. 5; William H. Carpenter, Nov. 28; Bruce N. Gleissner, Feb. 29; Charles A. Hodge. Sept. 22; Charles W. Holt, March' 18; Roderick • R. Issitt, Feb. 26.. Wichita No. 99.—-Calvin M. Aley, July 28; Henry Balling, Jan 10; Thomas J. Campbell, March 16; Robert J. Campbell Sept. 9; Winfleld S. Corbett, Oct. 24; Prescott K. Deal Nov. 28; Jesse B. Drew, May 3; Ora C. Gove, Dec. 1 Orlando G. Jacobs, July 11; Leonidas M. Johnson, Dec. 10 Rudolph Matthews, July 7; Frederick L. Pitts, Jan. 30 John A. Roth, Feb. 20; Douglas C. Simmons, Nov. 12 Samuel Shields, April 2; Robert H. Timmons, Nov. 23, Andrew J. Vermillion, June 11. Prudence No. 100.—Henry A LaRue, Dec. 13; DanieL C. Robinson, July 18. Euclid No. 101.—Archibald W. McSparren, Oct. 24.
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DEATHS—Continued. Keystone No. lOS.—-William L. Bausman, Nov. 12; Emanuel Evans, June 1; Leo L. Heymann, Aug. 30: David L. Howells, Aug. 25; Harvey H. Luken, Oct. 3; William T. Read, June 2,5; Willard N. Upham, March 4; William W. Watkins, Feb. 9; Walter H. Wells, Jan. 31. Cedar No. lOS.—Fred W. Aubertin, April 18; Henry M. Golobay, Sept. 7; Richard E. Johnson, June 15; Charles P. Randle, Aug. 6; Herbert W. Todd, Dec. 13; William C. Tomlinson, Jan. 24; Virgil Wilson, Feb. 27. Frontier No. lOli.—Adolphus C. Rawls, Sept. 24; Herman O. Janicke, Nov. 28. Solomon City No. 105.—George W. Carbaugh, June 13; Eli D. McCullough, Sr., Feb. 4; Thomas M. Robertson, March 24. Fidelity No. 106.—William Zollinger, April 4; Cyrus Brookover, May 13; John W. Roby, June 4; Charles A. Leedy, June 16; William H. Phillips, Oct. 11. Fortitude.-No. 107..—^William P. Bowen, Sept. 29; ,Elah Clate Fair, J a n ' 2 8 ; George T. Field, Jan. 27; Clarence R. Haslett, May 10; John Homer, Feb. 12; James C. McCracken, April 30; Jesse H. Otterstatter. Sr., Feb. 12; Edward M. Smith, April 9; William H. Wadraan, April 10. Memphis No. 108.—-John T. Holeman, Nov. 30. Winfield No. 110.—-Matthew Alexander, April 16; Douglass Bourdette, Aug. 12; Fred Conard, Dec. 26; Harry T. Morton, July 1; Isaac Newton, Jan. 27; James S. Oaks, Jan. 15; David H. Sickafoose, May 7. , Hesperian No. 111.—-John W. Jamieson, Dec. 7. Blue Valley No. llS.^Robert Leith, March 24. SI. John's No. 113.—Charles AUendorfer, April 24; Charles L. Drake, Aug. 3 1 ; Joseph D. Fell, June 23; William Lutt. June 19; John H. Robinson, Oct. 18; Theodore St. Pierre, Feb. 8. Advance No. IIJ/.—Andral G. Norris, June 19; Albert Rensen, April 28. Excelsior No. 115.—Smith B. Crane, Dec. 21. Muscotah JVO. 116.—Henry Herter, Feb. 13; Thomas G. Banks, July 7. Parsons No. 117.—Byron P. Bailey, Jan. 9; William L. Bartlett, May 30; Harry E. Brown, Nov. 27; Ralph R. Cecil, Nov. 25; Ernest E. Delephlaine, Sept. 28; Charles B. Hotchkiss, Dec. 17; Walter B. Kightlinger, May 8; Philip F. Lawrence, Nov. 14; Elisha D. Myers, Jan. 18; Charles F. Poffenbach, Oct. 29; Hiram W. Raber, Dec. 25; J. Prank Steele, Sept. 21. Altoona No. US.—Virginius F. Milton, Oct. 5. Cherokee No. 119.—Daniel A. IlifT, March 25: Anson J. Whitney, April 29; William L. Scammon, June 25; Charles Marshall, Dec. 14.
DEATHS—Continued. Halcyon No. 120.—Thomas J. Hutchings, Sr., April 24; .Jacob Berns, ; Charles A. Norman, . Wocdscn No. 121.—Samuel C. Gustin, Aug. 6; Scott H. Holderman, April 29; Fred B. Sprankle, Dec. 24. Clifton No. 122.—Robert Berner, Jan. 1; Dewitt C. Tyler, Dec. 3. Godfrey No. 12.'/.—Samuel J. Smith, —•—. Palestine No. 127.—John C. F. Ayres, Dec. 16; Thomas Denoon, May 3. Munden No. 128.—^William F. Bobenhouse, Sept. 5. Belleville No. 129.—Clark Lamb, Dec. 24 Charles F. Nelson, Jan. 1; William G. Schaefer, Feb. 6. Polar Star No. ISO.—Peter Johnson, March 18; John W. Shelton, Oct. 10; Walter C. Powers, Oct. 29. Equity No. 131.—William J. Buchanan, Jan. 10; Manford J. Barrall, July 27. Carson No. 132.—^William R. Spears, Jan. 13; Joseph H. Reid, Feb. 11; George'W. Mobley, March 23; John W. Wright, Aug. 23; Robert Borders, Sept. 6. Crescent No. 133.—Charles M. Adams, Feb. 23; Ferman Belles, Aug. 14; Eldridge G. Collins, Nov. 21; Milton A. Goodwin, Aug. 14; Conrad Mooter, Marcli 24; Christopher C Sollitt, Nov. 28; O r a E . Unsell, Dec. 26; John A. Williams, July 7. Clay Center No. 13.'i.—George Elmer Meek, June 5; George W. Miller, Dec. 9; Alexander H. Neal, April 1; Isaac P. Sellars, July 5; Albert T. Welsh, July 17. Lenexa No. I.S.5.—^James W. Ritchey, April 12; David S. Swartz, May 7. Vesper No. 136.—James T. Bradley, Nov. 16; George J. Church, Aug. 10; Andrew J. Denick, Feb. 15; Joseph Kimbrell, Feb. 6. Cherryvale No. 137.—Jacob A. Zimmer, May 5; Harry D. Cox, July 28; Joseph G. Hunt, Dec. 24. Dover No. 13S.—^Kenneth C. Corbett, Dec. 6. Sedgwick No. 139.—Horace Greer, June 9; Loyd Jacques, April ——; William Murflt, Dec. 31. Reno No. 140.—Simon M. Arter. Oct. 26; George S. Bentley, Aug. 20; .Joseph W. Christ, March 13; Commodore Hendrickson, April 12; William J. Morris, April 4; William M. Ritter, April 15; Charles Weddle, April 4. Signal No. 141.—Calvin A. Harrington, May 13; Frank M. Winters, May 18; Moses O.- Danciger, June 1; William Pepworth, Oct. 2; Bror A. Rosenquist, Dec. 4. Newton No. US.—Charles E.,Campbell, July 10; Roy Elwood, .July 5; Bennett Grove, Julv 11; Christian Hamon, March 18; Frank Jones, Aug. 28; John G. Miller, March 6; James P. Norton. April 9; Henry Riddeford, March 31; Charles E. Sweet, March 4; Hugh M. Walt, July 5.
DEATHS—Continued. Minneapolis No. US.—James S. Richards, Aug. 12; Elmer E. Marvin, Oct." 9. Gilcad No. HJf.—James Dutro, March 9; Elmer Robison, June IS. Mi. Vernon No. UiS.—-Ezra E. Brewer, June 1.5; AVilllam C. lirown, Jan. 2 1 ; James Humes, May 8; Andrew Alanifold, Dec. 21; William H. Walker, Oct. 12; Newton L. Wilson, Nov. 9, Ellsworth No. 11,0.—^A. Sidney Chase, Feb. 6; George A. CoUett, Feb. 10; Charles W. Flanders, Oct. 2; Ira E. Lloyd, April 29. Center No. J//7.—Phillip Brecher, July 7; .Tames E. Evans, May 17; Peter P. Magothan, .fxily 15: Frank A. Loveless, Jan. 11: Frank D. Lawrence, Sept. 4; A. L. Waterman, March 26. - Wa-Keeney No. IJfS.—Edward C. Doerschlag. May 18; Joseph J. Keraus, Nov. 3. • Thayer No. IJfO.—Arthur E. Anderson, Jan. 9; George W. Lowrance, Nov. 1.^. Wellington No. 150.—Joseph M. Thralls, March 14; Thomas J. Spence, April 13; George B. Pitts, Oct. 28. ' Douglass No. 151.—Dolphin C. Davis, .Ian. 24; Charles D. Forbes, April 14; Sherman Gehrett, May 16; Richard L. Gresham, Aug. 23; Will P. Knote, Dec. 4; George W. Littrell, Dec. 20; Leonard J. Wise, Aug. 25. • Lebo No. 152.—Robert P. Stephenson, Feb. 18. Lurav No. 153.—Franklin Taylor, April 18; George H. Gross, Aijrll 20; James F. Johnson, April 26. Lincoln No. 15Ji.—^Fred W. Herman, May 1; William M. Powers, Aug. 30; Dennis L. Sheets, Oct. 14. Hope No. 155.—^Samuel J. Bascom, Nov. 4; Algie. F. Sims, Jan. 19. Dexter No. 156.—Swan Sandstrum, Aug. S; ,Iohn R. Smith, Nov. 28. Active No. 158.—Frederick W. Pausch, Feb. 20; Peter Kieffer, Oct. 12; Morrel Drake, Nov. 12. Robinson No. 159.—Alfred Roudeblish, May 10. • Saqui No. 160.—Frank H. Gray, May 2 1 ; Dan W. Paxton, .lune 17; S. Palmer Crampton, Aug. 22; Charles H. Bell, Oct. 19; P r a n k E . F o u t s , Dec. 7. Sabelha No. 162.—J. Hozell Hanson, .Ian. 3 ; L. Teague Cornelious, Jan. 26; George S. Hugh, Sr., April 19. Atwood No. 161,.—William Correll, Nov. 7; Robert C. Drath, April 9; George W. Dull, Aug. 25; John O. Johnson, June 17; Charles P. Kurth, May 22; Oral R. Reeves, Dec. 13; Frank E. Robinson, May 2. Farmers No. 166.—Lee L. Crum, Jan. ——; .Tohn Diamond, Jan. ; James L. Eads, Dec. 17, 1927.
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DEATHS—Continued. Lamed No. 167.—^Claudius O. Lynch, March 17; Edward G. Wickwire, Aug. 1. Parkcrville No. 168.—Joseph E.Drake, Sept. 25. Blue Rapids No. 169.—^William A. Gilson, March 17; Alphonse B. Hanson, Jan. 27; John W. Wolff, April 11. •Fraternal No. 170.—.John C. Collins, Dec. 21. Sterling No. 171.—Melville B. Clement, Sept. 15; Andrew J. Gregg, May 3; Daniel E. Hanks, Oct. 19: Willis J. Masemore. Sept. 24; Elbert P. Smisor, March 19: ,Tohn L. Vaughn, June 12. McPherson No. 172.—Winfleld S. Bukey, Jan. 20; Jesse L. Allen, Feb. 2:i: Charles E. Lloyd, March 5; Charles F. Smith, June 14; Jerry L. Seitz, Sept. 30; Wilham J. Keyte, Oct. 20;. Harry L. Colburn, Oct. 21; John G. Maxwell, Dec. 21. • Western Star No. 17Ji.—John MoUison, Feb. 24. •KiTwin No. 775.^James R. Shaw, Feb. S: Arthur S. Harwood, May 20. Prairie Queen-No. 176.—Harry O. Bradley, April 28. Burr Oak No. 1.78.—Alexander S. Judy, Nov. 23. Mt. Moriah No. 179.—Herman Schwarz, Jan. 3; AVilliam C. Cottrell, Jan. 25; Scribner Sevedge, Dec. 11. Bennington No. ISO.—Robert A. Quinn, Sept. 8. Lenora No. 181.—William H..Coolidge, Oct. 6; Joseph Barbs, Dec. 11. Burrton No. 182.—William R. Scott, May 30, 1927. • PMllip'sburg No. \18li.—James E. Garrison, June 20; Allen J. . Pennington, Oct. 11; Guston H. Kegal, Dec. 16; James A. Rowland, Dec. 28. .Hamlin No. 183.—Louis N. Reagan, . Mountain Slope No. 186.—^George William Hackney, April 6; Samuel R. McKague, June 30; Edwin Milo Coldren, July 19; Albert N. Wilson, Sept.. 15. . Pittsburg No. 187.—Orla S. Casad, May 24; George S. Donahey. Dec. 5; Charles A. Dudley, Jan. 22; Charles E. Fitch, May 29; Nevada A. Kent, Sr., March 5; Charles F. Montee, May 30; Victor E. Owen, March 11; George W. Pogson, July 16; John H. Rodenberg, May 10; Albert Ross, Oct. 31; Claud A. Smith, Feb. 1; Hugh C. Wilson, March 4." Onaga No'. 188.—John Bellwood, Dec. 22: Raymond IJ. Bonjour, Dec. 19; Carl Frederickson, June 10. Newahcuba No. 189.—Theodore M. Cooper, Feb. 10; James W. Burton, April 11. .Henri No: 190.—Edmund H. Cox, July 29; Richard Bullimore, Dec. 20. Walnut Valley No. 191.—Leslie Cole, Jan. 20.
DEATHS—Continued. Boval No. iSg.—Richard Nodurft, May 1. Hatlford No. 19S.—Ciiarles S. Johnson, June 15. Galena No. 19i.—-Guy Wilson Wylie. .Jan. 25; Eugene Hicks Lovelace, Feb. 25; George C. Monlu.x, April 15; Ben Hatch Messenger, May 11: Isador .Schurlein, Aug 3; James B. Rauch, Sept. 10; Edward F. Dailey, Oct. 25; James B . McKay, Oct. 20. Hays No. 79.5.—Allen D. Gilkeson, .Sept. 22: William W. Paul, June 22; Andrew. B. Pinell, July 7; Henry H. Winters, Oct. 3. Madison No. 196.—Harold E. Elliott, May 26. Canton No. 197.—-David G. Brown, March 19. Blue Hill No. 198.—Thomas H. Sherley, Dec. 21. Norton No. 199.—Francis M. Lockard. Feb. 13; .T. Lee SlefTel, Jan. 12; Charles A. Hamilton, .Tune 17;- James A. Gove, June 7; G. Raymond Stapleton, Sept. 13; Ray M. Tinney, Nov. 24. Anthony No. ZOO.—Eli G. Hoopes, Oct. 1; Jerry Maples, Oct. 22; Edwin M. Coon, Dec. 12. Mulvane No. ZOl.—-John H. Rucker, May 12; James Shock, April 13. Delphos No. S02.—•William Young, Sept. 11. Sumner No. 20.1.—^Elzy A. Cochran, Aug. 29; Storie B. Hunt, Nov. 2; Wright Robertson, Dec. 4. Downs No. 20J/.—Thomas Harmer, Dec. 19; John W. Pugh, March 3; William Stretton, April 12. Eminence No. BOS.—^Henry Kackel, Jan. 22; Robert F. Kerr, Jan. 20; Charles Loveland, April 27; John W. Peters, Oct. 8. Harper No. 206.—^William F. Coulson, Dec. 24; Horace A. Lee, July 25; Joseph W. Montgomery, Nov. 25. Occidental No. 207.—Asa B. Barber, March 12; Bernard A. Patterson, Dec. 31, 1927. Friendship No. 20S.—Howard Altenread, Sept. 28; Cyle R. Simpson, Feb. 28: Isaac S. Van Ordstrand, April 12. Fulton No. 210.—John O. Angle, Dec. 18; Lawrence B. Moss, Nov. 1. Olive Branch No. 212.—^Pred L. Jackson, Feb. 28. Twin Grove No. 213.—Thomas J. Robinson, Feb. 17; Frank E. Drake, March 11; Frank R. Asher, Nov. 14. Sincerity No. SH.—John W. Nelson, April 23. Ellinwood No. 217.—Oliver H. Halsey, Nov. 16. Landmark No. 218.—John J. Leffelman, July 17; Merle C. Taylor, May 9. Lewis No. 220.—James Sutherland, Juno G.
L
DEATHS—Continued. Lebanon No. 221.—Claus H. Herrman, Nov. 25. SI. Bernard No. 222.—William J. Henry, Sept. 2; Samuel V. Mallory, June 6; Stacy H. Thomas, July 20. Joppa No. 223.—Wilson E. Brown, Aug. 2; Walter E. Keeves, Sept. 9; James Knox, Nov. 12. Anchor No. 224.—^David H. Hudson, April 24. Siloam No. 225.—Robert H. Allison, Nov. 10; Winfleld A. S. Bird, March 5; Theron S. Cafferty, Oct. 13; Robert H. Chilson, June 30; Frederick W. Freeman, June 9; William H. Gibson, Oct. 27; Wilbur B. Kingsley, Dec. 27, 1927; Charles J Webb, Jan. 3. Dirigo No. 226.—Prank P. Hagaus, May 15; Charles W. Eeuton, June 13. Salem No. 228.—Finley E. Holloway, June 13; Jobe S. PxiUen, Dec. 23. Vulcan No. 229.—^Orlando L. Bower, April 29. Ninnescah No. 2S0.^Daniel B. Cowie, Nov. 23; Charles McCurtain, Aug. 17; Thomas A. Reynolds, June 2S. Greenleaf No. 232.—Reuben B. Briggs, Dec. 26; John F. Parker, May 29; Joel T. Smith, Oct. 21. Clinton No. 233.—Emery E. Craft, March 3; Alfred C, Gibson, May 1; Richard Peck, May 11; Madison Estes, Nov. 3; Elisha Harned, Nov. 21. Axtell No. 23lh—Eli G. Carney, Dec. 26. Meridcn No. 230.—William J. Grist, Jan, 15; James Grlffltt, Aug. 7; Thomas Crites, Dec. 31. Temple No. 237.—-John W. Carter, .July 14; John M. Garvey, Dec. 14; .loshua N. Stewart, April 6. Mount Hope No. 23S.—^Benjamin Hill, July 31; Lewis G. Taylor, May 19. Urbana No.. 239.—Myron B, Smith, July 4. Soldier No. 2y,0.—Albert J. Myers, Feb. 28; Francis R. Stephenson, Dec. 7; Francis M. Wilson, Oct. 17. tinwood No. 2^1.—-Herbert E. Harris, Nov. 25; William T. Parry, Nov. 7. Miltontale No. 242.—Solomon L. Henderson, March 11. Peace No. 243.—-Jacob Livingston, Jan. 25. Waterly No. 244.—Francis L. Bunge, March 20; Carmel L. Davidson, July 31. Marmaton No. 245.—Earnest N. McCormack, .Tune 2; William B. Williams, May 2; William Ford, Dec. 23. Tt/rian No. 246.—-William H. Thompson, Feb. 9; Frank M. Dunn, May 17. Chase No. 247.—Orceneth F. Smith, Nov. 29.
DEATHS—Continued. Canopy No. SiS.—Alfred A. Denton, Feb. IS;-John T. Denton, Nov. 9. 'Scoltsville No.'zJfO.—Aifred A, Mann, .Sept. 28; , Frederick'H. Dunnigan, Nov. 6; "William A. Lacoe, Nov. 27. Whiting No. SSO.—William B. Allen, Jan. 18. Calva No. 251.—^Carl A. Swenson, June 15. Stafford No. 25S.—Joseph W. Stivers, April 15;' Albert M. Holmes, Nov. 6. . Oakley No. 253.—"Will B. Morse, Jan. 1; David L. Ringwalt, Sept. 12; Richard S. Winslow. Dec. 23. Ionic N,o. 25^.—Edward J . Westgate, Aug. 30. Milan No. 255.—-Harry T. Cheesman, Nov. 16. Lyra No. j?56.—William Fitzgerald, July 20; Theodore W. Glynn, Oct. 24. Westmoreland No. 257.—Zenis R. Detwiler, Dec. 12; Frank Weber, Dec. 2. Beattie No. 259.—George A. Newton, Oct. 2 1 . Mulberiy No. 261.—-John Pope, July 7. Attica No. 262.—-Lewis Henderson, May 5. Charity No. 26S.—James I. Dimmick, Feb. 16; Edgar H. . Kelley, Feb. IS. Logan No. 26/;.^Alfred Worrel, Dec. 21. Moline No. 267.—David ChafBn, Feb. 18; Ezra K. Longley, May 5. Bourbon No. 268.—Eugene Daniels. July 30. • Mistletoe No. 269.—-James Grier, Jan. 22. Quenemo No. 270.—-Arvel E. Swaim, Sept. 16. Armourdale No. 271.—Carl W. Forsberg, April 21; Robert Knauber, Dec. 2; Bernard PoUman, Nov. 26; Leavett H. Thomas, July 7; John M. Williams, Aug. 23. Kaw No. 272.—George W. Hitchcock, Jan. 6; William O. Laird, Oct. 1; Frederick C Oakley, Aug. 2; Anna S. O'Dowd, June 18; Carl B. Roberts, Aug. 6; Thomas L. Swales, Nov. 7. Unity No. 273.—^LeEoy McNeil, Oct. 4; Joseph W. Pierson, Dec. 24. Black Diamond No. 271/.—John A. Scott, May 13; Archie Fulton, June 27; Perry Conrad, Aug. 5; Thomas L. Bennett, Sept. 13; William E . Coles, Oct. 20; Jackson M. Adams, Dec. 9. Webb No. 2~5;—John J. Mohler, Jan. 7; Squier Wright, Jan. 31. Windom No. 276.—Otto Bladd, Feb. 17. Ashland No. 277.—-Frederick W. Hines, Jan. 26; Whiteman F. Taylor. Feb. 10.
DEATHS—Continued. Cosmos No. Z~8.—-Alfred J. Athay, ; Worthy Dainton, Oct. 1; Pius Wakeland, Nov. 26. Barney No. 279.—-William W. Wineinger, May 25. MiUbrook No. 2S;.—^Albert W. Golding, Jan. 10; MattheAv H. Carney, April 13. . , Alpha No. 282.—Frank P. Darrow, Dec. 14, 1927. Anthem No. iSJf.—Grover E. McBride, Nov. 7'; Ulysses G. Ruth, Sept. 29. , .Argonia No. 285.—James H. Wilkerson, Aug. 27. Lotus No. SS6.—^John L. McKay, July 26. •Oak No. 287.—^Samuel George Breakey, April 13; Sanford C. Flood, Oct. 12; John W. Ward. Oct. 7. Cyrus No. 288.—Alfred A. Peterson, Feb. 11; Nathan D. Shugart, May 2; Samuel L. Taylor, July 6." Paradise No. 290.—^Clyde G. Frankenfleld, March 17; David E. Sites, Sept. 28. . .Beulah No. 291.—Harvey H. Anspaugh, Aug. 14; Joseph E. Hoke, March 27. . . Glasco No. 292.—George B. Evans, Feb. 2. Kiowa No. £93.—Edward A. Northrup, April 28; William E. Moss, Aug. 20. Glen Elder No. 29^.—Creed A. Muck, Sept. 21. Apollo No. 297.—Jesse H. Gesner,-Feb. 22; Edward E. Muhlhelm. July 23; Thomas Thayer, Dec. 19. - Cable No. 299.—-Charley Haley, Oct. 20. Fargo No. ,100.—^Edwin H. Burt, Feb. 29; Harvey M. Forbes, Aug. 16; Earl J. Stutsman, July 10; James H. Turtle, Nov. 10. . Hamilton No. 301.—Archibald C. Fletcher, July 26. Gove City No. 302.—-Henry A. Spiker, .March 21; Russell G. Kriegh, Dec. 22. Albert Pike No. SO.?.—William F. Ashley, March 28; Andrew N. Becket, Dec. 30, 1927; James H. Boone, Oct. 28; Herman F. Hoffman, Feb. 28; Walter S. Hoyt, Feb. 14; James L. Hunting, Aug. 23; Gustavus E. Lehmann, Sept. 29; Jesse N. McClees, Aug. 16; James W. O'Neill, Feb. 20; Charles W. Southward, April IS; Elmer E. Stubblefleld, Oct. 22; Andrew J. Stutman; Nov.'17 ;•• Charles V. Topping, Feb. 6; Charles C. VonStein, Oct. 27.- Randall Nd.-30li.—Charles Zimmer, Oct. 2. Avon No. 305.—Cass. Jones, Dec. 8; Ira W. Lane, May 29. St. Thomas No. JOC—-John Maxwell, Feb. 17; Robert W. Taylor, N o v . 19.
'
•
•
DEATHS—Continued. Kansas No. ,107.—-Trueman D. French, Jan. 17; Fred D. Lapham, July 26: Ora E. Murry, Oct. 4; John Oberg, March 30; Bert L. Thompson, April 26. Alden No. 30S.—Wilham K. Bradley, Feb. S. Syracuse No. S09.—Henry Block, Feb. 11; John L. Metcalf, May 7; Evelln P. Barber, Aug. 10. Naphtali No. 110.—David M. Clause, March 12. Hancock No. 311.—Robert Loghry, Jan. 20; Charles Snell, Feb. 15; AVilliam J. Mathews, March 8; Joseph Pinciuard, March 13; Herman Hecht, May 6; John A. Bandolph, June 14; William H. Merriam, July 19; Harry Molyneau.T, Sept. 14. Virginia No. 313.—J. Wiley Donoho, May 10; Walter Danielson, May 30; Vern L. Johnson, Oct. 24; Robert W. Milner, Oct. 5. Coolidge No. 316.—^Jesse E. Barnett, April 6. Wallace No. 31S.—James H. Barrett. Feb. 25. Norwich No. 319.—-Joseph H. Martin, Dec. 6. Ooodland No. Sil.—-George L. Calvert, March 22; Jacob W. Crouse, July 10; W. W. Fiske. Feb. 15; Eugene F. Murphy, June S; Albert Reed, Jan. 19. Ben Hur No. 322.^Walter S. Anderson, July 30; Elmer E. Jaquay,- Jan. 26; George W. Killmer, Feb. 5; Gust Koeneman, April 2; Anderson Phalp, Dec. 29; Clarence O. Shumate, July 15; Travis G. Wright, July 18. Oneida No. 323.^Harry G. Foster, Sept. IS. Caney No. 3ZJi.—Charles C. Bowen, Dec. 28; Henry E. Buckles, Dec. 31, 1927; Miles C. Jones, Dec. 8; Samuel C. Knight, Sept. 25; Otho H. Wood. Oct. 29. La Barpe No. 1S5.—Lester C. Darr, Jan. 24. Horton No. SZC.—John W. Robertson, May 31. Hoyt No. J27.—William R. Pettijohn, Jan. 21; Frank McNorton, Dec. 2. Oypsum City No. 32S.—Cornelius D. Bale, Feb. 22; Elmer C. Talbert, Aug. 1. Arcadia No. 319.—Walter D. Konantz, March 7; James D. Green, March 20; Samuel Endicott, April 1. La Crosse No. ilO.—-Samuel O. Perkins, June 27. Iloisington No. 331.—Earl H. Clark, Dec. 27; Ray B. Ledgerwood, April 10. Rosedale No. 333.—-George A. Converse, Sept. 7; James M. Smiley. July 23. Allen No. 335.—John E. Romer, April 24. ' Formoso No. 336.—-Louis R. Hout, July 2 1 ; Albert Stuckey, July 3.
li
DEATHS—Continued. Frederick No. 337.—George F. McClelland. July 6; Robert W. Millard, Nov. 17. Kincaid No. 338.—Archibald P. Caldwell. Dec. 12; Lawson L. Drury. Dec. 8; E. Hewitt Griffin, Dec. 27,1927. Lane No. 339.—John E. Rhodes, Oct. 8, 1927. LeoU No. 31,0.—Elwood O'Neil, Nov. 1; Clarence O. Perry, Feb. 17. Parker No. 31,1.—Herman S. Crosswhlte, Nov. 14; .Tames T. Riley, Jan. 27; George A. Williamson, Sept. 12. Holyrood No. ,5.43.—William R. Marsh, March 12. Aihlar No. 31,1,.—-Norman E. Brewer, March 11; Edward W. Dunlap, Feb. 5; Henry Harbes. March 11; Charles A. Lass, March 28. Edna No. 31,5.—Isaac N. Watson, Feb. 27; Abram M. Newman, Nov. 20. Moundridge No. 3l,Q.—Peter Kastner. June 6. Spivey No. 31,7.—-George P. Chalk, March 4. Scammon No. 351.—Hugh Reid, Jan. 18: John W. Lovell, Aug. 4. Horace No. 352.—Frank E. Gates, Sept. 14; Bert C. Kline, Aug. 20. AfarQuettc No. 353.—-Anton Thompson, Feb. 4. Summer field No. 351,.—-Roy A. Conard, June 26; Henry Maitland. May 24. Chautauqua No. .55.5.—.'Vlfred C. Smith, Nov. 17. Wellsville No. 356.—-James Frank Preshaw. May 18. Alta Vista No. 357.^Martin W. Biglln, Jan. 12; Joseph I,. Simons, June 18. Sylvan Cron No. 359.—^Daniel Vonada, Dec. 29. Jennings No. 360.—-Arthur M. Hanson, Nov. 10. Qeneseo No. 361.—William E. Marsh, April 9; Bert L. Turner, July 29. Cuba No. 362.^Ezra Williams, Dec. 24. Powhattan No. 363.—-Robert Andrews, June 30: Frank G. McCutchen, Dec. 1. Valley Center No. 361,.—^.loseph A. Adarason, May 20: Alonzo J. Gilchrist, Nov. 22; Jay P. Clark, Dec. 25. Bonner Springs No. 366.—Melvin A. Lewis, July 2; John A. Stark, July 8: James E. Splcer, Oct. 15. Stohrtille No. 368.—Frank M. Joyner, Sept. 22. Roger E. Sherman No. 369.—-Alfred Boregard, March 6; James W. Lafferty, March 13; Albert C. Mayer, Sept. 26: James C. PoUey. Jan. 12: Henry Beimer, Dec. 13; William A. Crawford, Dec. 26; Hugo VIelhauer, Oct. 27.
DEATHS—Continued, Maple Hill No. 370.—William J. Tod. Jan. 16. Macksville No. 371.—Jacob F. Hoch. Nov. 26. Denison No. 372.—John Oneal, Aug. 30. Morrill No. 37J.—Charles A. Billlngton, July 2. Dwight No. 37Ji.—Harvey J. Munkres. May 19. btlavaji No. 375.—Robert H. Kendall. Oct, 8. •Ztnda No. 378.—Bening H. Griem, May 10; John W. DIerllng. Jan. 26, . Buffalo No. 379,—Joseph A, Bentley. Dec. 25. White City NO. 380.—-Henry Baxter, Sept. 30;- Herman Hennlng, Nov. 10. McDonald No. 383.—-James M. Copper, July 10. Protection No. 384.—-Forrest S. Butts, Sept. 14; Elmer E. Gray, Aug. 27; John Taylor, Oct. 2. Piper No. 385.—James A. Grlsham. Aug. 22. Emmett No. 387.—William A. Davis. June 5. 'Spearville No. 388.—George F. Weyand. Jan. 3. Frecpor/JVo. 389,^Fred Wagoner. Sept. 20.. Natcma No. 390.—John E. Booth. March 15. Sylvia No. 391.—Bernard McKeown. May 12. Mayetta No. 393.—Charles H. Davidson, May 14. Coats No. 391,.—Enos Pearce, March 18. Lindsborg No. 397.—Archibald R. McPhall, Nov. 9. Hepler No. 398.—Lewis Hess, April 17. Melody No. -400.-Everett J. Reneau, Feb. 2; Robert F. Hunter. Oct. 25. Saint Francis No. 404.—William B. Lockwood. Dec. 21; Matt Winter. May 20. Hugoton No. 406.—Jesse J. Thomas. . Scranton No. 407.—James McKinley, June 9, Arma No. 408.—Frank J, Martinache, Aug, 20. Climax No. 411-—Jonas Aumiller, June 30; Ulysses S. Brown. Jan. 16; Frank L. Randall, March 13; Charles M. Waggoner, Dec. 12. mimorc No. 41Z.—James T, Hall, Oct. 16. Morland No. 414:—Jesse B. Covalt, July 11; John L. Hazen, Dec, 16, ; • . . Perry No. 415.—Alvis C. Zimmerman, Dec, 21. King Eiavid No. 416.—Charles P. Baxter, May 16. Lecompton No..420.—George W, Norwood, May,1.
DEATHS—Continued. Elkhart No. ^22.—Henry C. Ervin, March 28. Richmond No. J>£6.^Curtls H. Sigler, Dec. 3. Cunriinoham No. 1)27.—Ernest Lash, July 6. Deerfteld No. J,3S.—Willis A. Chaney, Nov. 1. Bestor G. Brown No. i33.—Ransom Stephens, March 2,3; John B. Cooprlder, March 29. Ulysses No. USS.—John F. Blake, April 10; George H. Hoelcel, April 18. Overland Park No. ii6.—Fred C. Naeve, Sept. 28. Hutchinson No. HS.^'Ra.y R. Smith, April 20.
3Itt il^mnrtam. iBeatQs Milbtxtne Mavtava^ PAST G R A N D M A S T E R O F A L A H A M A . Died May 2, 1928.
PAST G R A N D M A S T E R , PAST G R A N D TREASURER, A N D G R A N D SECRETARY OF ALBERTA. Died March 28, 1928.
PAST GRAND MASTER, AND GRAND SECRETARY OF ARIZONA. Died July 27, 1928.
Austin ^alhetty PAST GRAND MASTER OF CONNECTICUT. Died April 25, 1928.
b
3(« Mmoriam. <g0ary0 € . P a r s o t t s , PAST G R A N D MASTER OF CONNECTICUT, Died November 15, 1928.
, ArtJfur (H. M. Sillott, PAST GRAND MASTER OF COSTA RICA. Died September 25, 1927.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF COSTA RICA. Died October 13, 1927.
PAST GRAND MASTER AND PAST GRAND TREASURER OF DELAWARE. Died September 5, 1928. •
^
31 u iHinimriauT.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. Died January 2, 1928.
GRAND SECRETARY EMERITUS OF DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. Died March 4, 1928.
Mtitt\i}em ®rttttbl0, PAST GRAND MASTER OF DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. Died May 6, 1928.
Slob^rt S . Colibing, PAST GRAND MASTER OF GEORGIA. Died October 21, 1927.
3(n iH^mnrtam.
PAST GRAND SECRETARY OF GEORGIA. Died March 22. 1928.
^Utttti^r
Milletf
PAST GRAND MASTER OF IOWA. Died January 8, 1928.
mniiam
CaltiuisU Mcdllfavh^
PAST GRAND MASTER OF KENTUCKY. Died July 5, 1928.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF MICHIGAN. •
Died December 24, 1927.
31n il^monam.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF MINNESOTA. Died December 30, 1937.
il^pnrB Sice AJiama, PAST GRAND MASTER OF MINNESOTA. Died March 30, 1938.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF MISSISSIPPI. Died May 18, 1928.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF MISSOURI. Died November 28, 1927.
3(tt ii^mnnam. ' ©laf AJiJ»t0on fiJuraa, PAST GRAND MASTER OF MISSOURI. Died September 27, 1928.
lllintant ^ 0 n r a AUttt, PAST GRAND MASTER OF MONTANA. Died April 12, 1928.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF NEBRASKA. Died December 26, 1927.
PAST DEPUTY GRAND MASTER OF NEVADA. Died August 21, 1928.
Kn iHfttionattt.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF NEW YORK. Died January 2, 1928.
George iaoJiJiriJige Cop^lanti, PAST GRAND MASTER OF OHIO. Died May 4, 1928.
Kamca A. §c0tt, PAST GRAND MASTER OF OKLAHOMA. Died April 5, 1928.
iBauiti Buranti Sfoag, PAST GRAND MASTER OF OKLAHOMA. Died June 10, 1928.
J
3fn Mtmatxnm, AJmcr Silts fKonroneg, PAST GRAND MASTER OF OKI-AHOMA. Died July 29, 1928.
^savge S^^nry Siurnett, PAST GRAND MASTER OF OKEGON. Died September 10, 1927.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF SOUTH CAROLINA. Died
Mxltan ij^ttmpiirxes Pric^, PAST GRAND MASTER OF TENNESSEE. Died November 23, 1927.
3ln mpmnrtam.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF TEXAS. Died January 13, 1938.
^amui^l Paul, PAST GRAND MASTER OF UTAH. Died April 21. 1927.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF VIRGINIA. Died November 20, 1927.
Abralifant Eincaln
Millet,
PAST GRAND MASTER OF WASHINGTON. Died November 14, 1937.
i n M^mavmm^ Sog, S t a n t o n ^ a i j u J a r b , JUNIOR GRAND WARDEN OF WASHINGTON. Died: February 4,. 1928.
Sf^nrg -MJ. SCennan, PAST. GRAND MASTER OF WASHINGTON. Died. September 17, 1928.
CyruB # i m t o n StoirktueU, PAST GRAND MASTER OF WISCONSIN. .^ Died June 19, 1928.
iiHrt^man ii^^nra 21- CEottcn, PAST GRAND MASTER OF WISCONSIN. .
Died July 25, 1928.
3ln il^mortam. ^eavQS ©Iney SCellogg, PAST GRAND MASTER OF M'ISCONSIN. Died August 20, 1928.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF WYOMING. Died December 20, 1927.
PAST GRAND MASTER OF WYOMING. D i e d S e p t e m b e r 29, 1928.
CODE OF LAWS
PREFACE. Your Committee to whom was assigned the work of revising our Laws entered upon this task with a full knowledge of the importance of the same, as well as a full appreciation of the necessity for a number of changes in our Constitution in order that all changes in our ByLaws since the publication of our last revision would be supported by the organic law of this Grand Lodge. Your Committee can best explain the basis on which this revision was accomplished by quoting the following from the Report of the Committee in preparing our last edition: "Our purpose has been to so rearrange our already excellent code of Laws as to eliminate those portions which conflict with later enactments, remove duplications, do away with occasional ambiguities, group all the laws and decisions relating to the same subject under one head, and render the new publication as a whole fairly convenient and easy of interpretation," * * *. The wealth of Masonic knowledge left as an inheritance to the Craft in this jurisdiction by our late lamented M.-. W.-. OWEN A. BASSETT justifies your Committee in continuing, under the head of "Bassett Notes", the splendid reference made to this distinguished Mason by the Committee who revised our Laws in 1913, and like-
GRAND LODGE OF
KANSAS.
BASSETT NOTES.
wise the comments by the same Committee under the head of "Landmarks of Masonry", believing this to be an expression of the policy of our Grand Lodge on this subject. ALBERT K .
WILSON,
ELRICK C . COLE,
Committee.
BASSETT NOTES. Touching the invaluable work of our deceased brother, M.-. W.-. OWEN A. BASSETT, which appears as an appendix in the present publication of our Laws: While changes in our Laws, occurring since the work of the venerable author was ended, lead to many apparent conflicts, yet there is, in the Appendix, as a whole, such a wealth of Masonic wisdom, that your committee is of the opinion that it cannot be too frequently considered by the Craft, and we recommend its publication, in its entirety, in this edition of our Laws, bearing in mind, however, that for a determination of questions, purely loca, it will be wise to look rather to the body of our Laws than to any comment.—Com. Juris. 1913.
GRAND
LODGE OF
KANSAS. LANDMARKS.
LANDMARKS OF MASONRY. Your committee, with profound regard for the Ancient Landmarks of Masonry, and fully realizing that they are not the subject-matter of legislation, yet believing that some information concerning them may properly be given in connection with the forthcoming publication of our Laws, recommend that the following, defined by that eminent Masonic jurist and author, Dr. MACKEY, as Landmarks of Masonry, be so published as a comment ©f the author and for the information of the Craft.—Com. Juris. 1913.
L The modes of recognition. II. The division of symbolic Masonry into three degrees. III. The legend of the third degree. IV. The government of the Fraternity by a presiding officer called a Grand Master, who is elected from the body of the Craft. • V. The prerogative of the Grand Master to preside over every assembly of the Craft, wheresoever and whensoever held. VI. The prerogative of the Grand Master to grant dispensations for conferring degrees at irregular times. VII. The prerogative of the Grand Master to grant dispensations for opening and holding Lodges. VIII. The prerogative of the Grand Master to make Masons at sight. IX. The necessity for Masons to congregate in Lodges.
GRAND
LODGE OF
KANSAS.
LANDMARKS.
X. The government of every Lodge by a Master and two Wiardens. XL The necessity that every Lodge, when congregated, should be duly tiled. XII. The right of every Mason to be represented in all general meetings of the Craft, and to instruct his representatives. XIII. The right of every Mason to appeal from the decision of his brethren in Lodge convened, to the Grand Lodge or General Assembly of Masons. XIV. The right of every Mason to visit and sit in every regular Lodge. XV. That no visitor, not known to some brother present as a Mason, can enter a Lodge without undergoing an examination. XVI. That no Lodge can interfere in the business or labor of another Lodge. XVII. That every Freemason is amenable to the laws and regulations of the masonic jurisdiction in which he resides. XVIII. That every candidate for initiation must be a man, free born and of lawful age. XIX. That every Mason must believe in the existence of GOD as the Grand Architect of the Universe. XX. That every Mason must believe in a resurrection to a future life. XXI. That a book of the law of GOD must constitute an indispensable part of the furniture of every Lodge. XXII. That all men in the sight of GOD are equal, and meet in the Lodge on one common level. XXIII. That Freemasonry is a secret society, in possession of secrets that cannot be divulged. XXIV. That Freemasonry consists of a speculative science founded on an operative art. XXV. That the Landmarks of Masonry can never be changed.
CONSTITUTION, T H E MOST WORSHIPFUL GRAND LODGE OF ANCIENT, F R E E AND A C CEPTED MASONS OF KANSAS, DULY CONSTITUTED AT LEAVENWORTH
CITY ON THE SEVENTEENTH DAY OF MARCH, A. L. 5856, BY SMITHTON N O . 140, LEAVENWORTH N O . 150, AND KANSAS No. 153, FOR THE PURPOSE OF INCREASING THE NUMBER AND .
CONTINUING
THE
UNION
OP
THE
LODGES
UNDER
ITS
JURISDIC-
T I O N , AND BY M E A N S OF UNIFORM LAWS INSURING THE STABILITY OP THEIR ORGANIZATIONS AND UNIFORMITY IN THEIR METHODS OP WORKING AND TRANSACTING BUSINESS, AND FOR THE FURTHER PURPOSE OF AFFORDING AMPLE PROTECTION TO ALL MASONS BEING IN ITS JURISDICTION, AND BY MEANS OF JUST REGULATIONS, SECURING THEM IMMUNITY FROM IMPOSTURE AND CONFIRMING THEM IN THE EXERCISE OF ALL THEIR RIGHTS AND PRIVILEGES, DOES NOW, ON THIS NINETEENTH DAY OF FEBRUARY, A . L . 5 8 8 5 , BY AUTHORITY OF SMITHTON N O . 1, LEAVENWORTH N O . 2 , AND WYANDOTTE N O . 3 , AND MORE THAN TWO-THIRDS OF ALL THE OTHER TWO HUNDRED AND TWENTY-EIGHT LODGES UNDER ITS JURISDICTION, ORDAIN AND ESTABLISH THIS CONSTITUTION:
ARTICLE I. SECTION 1. Name and Jurisdiction.—This Grand Body shall be known as T H E MOST WORSHIPFUL GRAND LODGE OF ANCIENT, F R E E AND ACCEPTED MASONS OF KANSAS, and has exclusive jurisdiction over the district
of country known as the State of Kansas. D e f i n i t i o n of T e r m s . — W o r s h i p f u l : — A title of honor applied t o m u nicipal a n d judicial officers in E n g l a n d : p r o b a b l y first applied t o L o d g e s a b o u t t h e t i m e of t h e revival (1717).—Encyc. Freemasonry.—MACKEY, 893. T h e G r a n d Lodge being t h e h i g h e s t M a s o n i c a u t h o r i t y is styled " M o s t W o r s h i p f u l . " L o d g e : — F r o m t h e A-S. logian (to dwell).—7d. 4 7 2 . — C h a r g e s of a F r e e m a s o n , 74, N o t e . A n c i e n t : — T l i e seceders from t h e G r a n d Lodge of E n g l a n d , in 1738, a s s u m e d t h e a p p e l l a t i o n of " A n c i e n t M a s o n s ' t o i n d i c a t e their observance of t h e old forms, a n d d e n o m i n a t e d t h e a d h e r e n t s of t h e G r a n d Lodge " M o d e r n M a s o n s , " alleging t h e y h a d m a d e i n n o v a t i o n s a n d . r i t u a l i s t i c changes.—Hist. Freemasonry.—GOULD, ii, 287, N o t e : 435. W h e n t h e t w o u n i t e d in 1813. t h e word " A n c i e n t " was retained.—Id. 502. F r e e : - ^ T h e derivation of t h i s word a n d its m e a n i n g a s h e r e used h a s been well considered, and t h a t it is a c o r r u p t i o n of t h e F r e n c h frere, is t h e wisest conclusion
GRAND CONSTITUTION.
LODGE OF
KANSAS. ARTICLE I.
reached. (Per contra, see Encyc Freemasonry.—MACKET, 294.) The words Frere Macon (Fr.) and. Free Mason (Eng.) are now usually written Freremacon and Freemason. Accepted:—A term which signlSes received into, i. e., accepted as a member of the society.—1(1. 10. Mason:—This word is derived from the Mediaeval Latin rrtaconner (to build), from which comes maQonetus (a builder).—BASSETT.
SEC. 2. Source and Extent of Authority.—This Grand Lodge recognizes ONE SUPREME AUTHORITY—THE GRAND ARCHITECT OF THE UNIVERSE—and possesses superintending authority over Ancient Craft Masonry within its territorial jurisdiction, which it may exercise only by general and uniform laws. Belief in God.—A belief in Deity is a Landmark.—Landmarks, App. pp. 5, 10, 13. I t Is the very foundation of the structure. As each individual Mason belives in GOD, and in Him puts his trust, it follows that the highest body of organized Masons must recognize "One Supreme Authority."— BASSETT.
J u r i s d i c t i o n . — T h e limits of Grand Lodge jurisdiction are coincident with the political boundaries of the country of its location, and It Is the settled rule of American Grand Lodges that each has exclusive jurisdiction within Its own territory.—Dig. Masonic Law.—CHASE, 36. Uniforni By-Laws.—The above provision as to general and uniform laws does not contemplate the adoption by the Grand Lodge of uniform bylaws for Lodges. (See note under Const., Art. VIII, Sec. 5.)—COM. R E V . 1898. A m e n d m e n t s to By-Laws.—The provisions of Lodge by-laws requiring amendments thereto to be submitted to the Grand Lodge are void.—St. Reg. 1875.
SEC. 3. Communications.—The Annual Communications of this Grand Lodge shall be held at such time and place as may be designated by law or resolution. Special Communications may be called by the Grand Master. Le^al Provisions.—By-Laws 9. 10, 11. Location of G r a n d Lodi^e.—Under this provision the Grand Lodge cannot be permanently located for the reason that the members at any Annual Communication have a right to fix the place for holding the next Communication.—BASSETT.
SEC. 4. Members.—The members of the Grand Lodge shall consist of: First, The Past Masters, Masters and Wardens of the Lodges; Second, The Past and Present Elective, and Present Subordinate Grand
GRAND LODGE OF CONSTITUTION.
KANSAS. ARTICLE I.
Officers; Third, The representatives by proxy of the Masters and Wardens of Lodges, such proxy, however, to be only one of the three principal officers, who only may be so represented. Lc^al Provision.—33y-Law 31. Past Masters.—The degree of Past Master Is not recognized by the Constitution. A Past Master is one who has been regularly elected and installed to preside over a Lodge, and whose first term as Master has expired. This provision, though not general, creates a membership of the best informed Masons and those of the ripest e.\perience.—BASSETT. Membership.—Alerabers of other Grand Jurisdictions cannot, be elected Members of this Grand Jurisdiction.—COM. JURIS., Proc. 1896, p. 283.
SEC. 5. Qualifications of Members.—Every member of this Grand Lodge must be affiliated with some Lodge in this Grand Jurisdiction, and on dimission, suspension or expulsion of any member by his Lodge, or by any other Masonic authority, his name shall be dropped from the roll of Grand Lodge membership. Definition.—"Other Masonic authority" means another Lodge or the Grand Lodge. (Const. Art. VIII, Sec. 3.)—BASSETT.
SEC. 6. Reinstatement by Grand Lodge.—Any member who shall be dropped from the roll of Grand Lodge membership, if by reason of dimission from his Lodge, shall be Reinstated on producing evidence of affiliation with some Lodge in this Grand Jurisdiction; and if by reason of suspension, he may be Reinstated on producing evidence of restoration by his Lodge. SEC. 7. Retroactive Laws.—In the exercise of its powers, the Grand Lodge shall never apply to any case any Law or Regulation not existing at the time the cause of action arose. Ex Post Facto.—Ex post facio laws have ever been unjust and oppressive; they are repugnant to the spirit of Masonry, therefore it is here declared that no law or regulation shall be made retroactive.—BASSETT.
10
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
CONSTITUTION.
ARTICLE I I .
ARTICLE n . SECTION 1. Grand Lodge Oflacers.—The Officers of the Grand Lodge shall be: (1) Grand Master; (2) Deputy Grand Master; (3) Grand Senior Warden; (4) Grand Junior Warden; (5) Grand Treasurer; (6) Grand Secretary; (7) Grand Chaplain; (8) Grand Senior Deacon; (9) Grand Junior Deacon; (10) Grand Marshal; (11) Grand Sword Bearer; (12) Grand Senior Steward; (13) Grand Junior Steward; (14) Grand Pursuivant; (15) Grand Tyler.
SEC. 2. Eligibility.—Any Master Mason shall be eligible to the office of Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Grand Senior Warden or Grand Junior Warden, who may have been previously elected and installed as Master of a Lodge in this Grand Jurisdiction. SEC. 3. Election and Terms.—The first six officers in the order named shall be chosen by ballot, by a majority of all the votes cast therefor, at each Annual Communication, and shall hold their offices until their successors are installed. The subordinate officers shall be appointed by the Grand Master, after his installation, and shall hold their offices during his pleasure. Legal Provisions.—By-Laws 52. 5S. A p p o i n t m e n t a n d Removal.—As no one who may be chosen to an office can perform any official act until he has been Inducted into the office, so a Grand Master cannot appoint his subordinate officers'until he has been installed; and he has the power at any time to remove a subordinate ofHcer and fill permanently by appointment the vacancy thus occasioned.—BASSETT. Additional Ofiiccs.—Under the powers and prerogatives of the Grand Master he may create additional offices, provided the prescribed duties are for the furtherance of the affairs and business of the Craft in general and the Grand Lodge In particular.—COM. REV. 1929. Legal P r o v i s i o n s . — B y - L a w s 22. 44.
SEC. 4. Vacancy and Succession.—If a vacancy shall occur in the office of Grand Master, or in case of his absence or inability to perform his duties, the order of
GRAND CONSTITUTION.
LODGE OF KANSAS.
11 ARTICLE II.
succession thereto shall be: First, Deputy Grand Master; Second, Grand Senior Warden; Third, Grand Junior Warden; Fourth, The junior Past Grand Master.present. If a vacancy shall occur in any other office, it shall be filled by the Grand Master by appointment. Saccesslon a n d Appointment.—There is no succession to any office, except to that of Grand Master, and any vacancy occasioned by such succession should be filled by appointment. When the succession is permanent the appointment is permanent, but when the succession is temporary the appointment is for the time only. Of the Past Grand Masters the junior Is the most likely to understand the present policy of the Grand Lodge, to be most familiar with the interpretation of the law, and less likely to be " a n old man in his dotage." This is the oldest regulation on this subject.—Reg. 1721. App.
62.—BASSETT.
A p p o i n t m e n t a n d Installation.—No one should be appointed to any oflBce, permanently or temporarily, who does not possess the qualifications prescribed by law therefor. A person appointed to fill ; vacancy should be installed; this may be done by the Grand Master or by any Past or Present Master holding his commission, and in any Lodge within this Grand Jurisdiction. The person who permanently succeeds to the office of Grand Master is not required to be installed into this office, for the obligations previously assumed when installed into the office which placed him In the line of succession were Intended to qualify him for all resulting duties.—BABSETT.
SEC. 5. Powers of Temporary Officers.—Every officer or brother who shall according to law succeed to any office, or act in the Grand Lodge or elsewhere under its authority, foi or in place of any other officer or brother, or who shall perform any duty in the place of another, shall, while so acting, have all the powers and be required to perform all duties of the office or place to which he has succeeded. Application.—This applies to every permanent or temporary succession or appointment to any place or for any duty. The words "succeed" and 'succeeded" in tills section are used In a more extended sense than the word "succession" in the preceding section, and relate to any appointment to place or office as well as succession to ofBce.—BASSETT.
SEC. 6. Degrees of Masonry.—The Degrees of Ancient Craft Masonry are no less and no more than three in number, to wit: (1) The First Degree, or Degree of Entered Apprentice; (2) the Second Degree, or Degree of Fellow Craft; (3) the Third Degree, or Degree of Master Mason. No Lodge in this Grand Jurisdiction shall ever
12 CONSTITUTION.
GRAND
LODGE OF
KANSAS. ARTICLE II.
assume to confer any other degree, and these only in the order here given. SEC. 7. Degrees for Business.—The Grand Lodge shall be opened on the Third Degree for the transaction of all business, except as may be expressly provided by law, or shall be contrary to Masonic usage: Provided, When conducting public ceremonies, except funerals, it shall be opened on the First Degree. A Lodge shall be opened on the Third Degree for the transaction of all business, except as may be expressly provided by law, or shall be contrary to Masonic usage. Legal Provisions.—By-Laws 70, 71, 73, 136, 137. Funerals.—This exception relating to funerals is based upon the rule that none but a Master Mason is entitled to Masonic burial; and as the burial service is generally conducted by a Lodge, this is particularly applicable whenever the ceremony Is performed.—BASSETT. F u n e r a l s . — A Lodge may appear in the funeral procession of a brother when it is not conducted by it or any other Masonic association, without obtaining a special dispensation.—P03TLETHWAITE, G . ' . M .•. 1891. Escort.—A Lodge cannot act as an escort to any other society in the performance of a public ceremony.—THOMPSON, G.-. M .". 1894. Appear—Escort.—Note the difference between " a p p e a r " and "escort" In Postlethwaite-Thompson decisions.—COM. REV. 1929. F u n e r a l s . — A Lodge cannot rightfully conduct the funeral ceremony of a deceased Master Mason, who at the time of his death was under suspension, either for non-payment of dues or for unmasonic conduct; the effect of such suspension is to deprive him of all the rights and privileges to which he was entitled prior to such suspension; nor can a Mason while under suspension sit in a Lodge of Master Masons or unite with the Craft in a Masonic procession.—CLARK, G . ' . M . ' . 1895. F u n e r a l s . — Willie it is desirable, it is not absolutely necessary that the pall-bearers at a Masonic funeral be Masons.—COLEMAN, G.*. M .'. 1897.
GRAND
LODGE OF KANSAS.
CONSTITUTION.
13 ARTICLE III.
ARTICLE III. SECTION 1. Title of Grand Officers.—The elective officers of this Grand Lodge shall be addressed as follows: The Grand Master as Most Worshipful, and all others as Right Worshipful. The subordinate officers of this Grand Lodge, and the Masters of Lodges, shall be addressed as Worshipful. Past officers shall be addressed as present officers of like rank. All other officers of Lodges shall be addressed as Brother, the address common to all Masons. Leflal Provision.—By-Law 18.
SEC. 2. Grand Master.—The duties, powers and prerogatives of the Grand Master shall be such as by immemorial usage have been required of, exercised by, and accorded to this high office by the Ancient Constitutions, General Regulations and Landmarks of Freemasonry. It shall be his duty to preside over the Grand Lodge, to conduct all public ceremonies, and to require strict conformity to Masonic law and usage in this Grand Jurisdiction. Le^al Provisions.—By-Laws 9, 10, 11, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 42, 44, 47, 48, .52, 53, 72, 83, 84, 88, 99, 103, 100, 143, 164, 168, 169, 175, 178, ' Prerogatives.—By prerogative is meant a personal right by virtue of Ms office and during its continuance (,Masonic Law.—LOCKWOOD, p. 31). There appears to be a concurrence of opinion among Masonic writers that the Grand Master has some prerogatives, but there is quite a diversity of opinion as to what they are. From a careful review of the authorities, the following appear to be generally conceded: (1) To convene the Grand Lodge in special communication (Const. Art. I, Sec. 3); (2) to convene a Lodge in stated or special communication (By-Law 72), and therefore he has the right of visitation; (3) to preside over every assemblage of the Craft wheresoever and whensoever held {Masonic Juris.—MACKEY. 454); (4) to fill all vacancies in oSBce by appointment (Const. Art. II, Sec. 4); (5) to appoint all committees of the Grand Lodge {Id. Art. IV, Sec. 5), and he may act ex-offlcio as chairman.of each; (6) to issue letters of dispensation for the forming of new Lodges (Id. Art. V, Sec. 1); (7) to constitute new Lodges and install the officers (.Id. Art. V, Sec. 5); (8) to arrest the warrant or charter of a Lodge (.Masonic Juris.—SiMONd, 260); (9) to suspend the Master of a Lodge (By-Law 88); (10) to suspend any elective officer of the Grand Lodge until the next Annual Communication; (11) to authorize the installation of a Master-elect who is not a Past Warden (Masonic Law.—LOCKWOOD, 22); (12) to conduct the private and public ceremonies (Const. Art. III. Sec. 2) and to authorize any Past Master to act for hira; (13) to interpret the laws and require their
14
GRAND
CONSTITUTION.
LODGE OF
KANSAS. ARTICLE I I I .
observance (Diet. Freemasonry.—MOBBIS. 138): (14) to exercise a sound discretion and act for the best interests of Masonry, should an emergency ever arise requiring something to bo done which is not provided for by law or regulation {Masonic Law.—LOCKWOOD, 23); (15) to grant dispensations to abridge the time within which one can petition for and receive the three Symbolic • Degrees, and to make Masons at sight (.Masonic Juris.—MACKEY. 458); (16) to declare a vacancy in any elective office of a Lodge (By-Law 84); (17) to add to or take from the roll of a Lodge U.'. D .•. (By-Law 99); (IS) to revoke letters of dispensation (By-Law 102); (19) to authorize issue of a copy of Lodge Warrant of Constitution (By-Law 103); (20) to grant a new trial for an offense against the'Body of Masonry (By-Law 175).—COM. B E V . 1808. Additional Offices.—Under the powers and prerogatives of the Grand Master he may create additional ofBces, provided the prescribed duties are for the furtherance of the affairs and business of the Craft in general and the Grand Lodge in particular.—COM. R E V . 1929. Masons a t Si^ht.—While the power of the Grand Master to make Masons at sight is undenied, it is one which should never be exercised.—COM. REV. 1898. Source of Power.—The office of Grand Master has'always existed. All his general powers and prerogatives are Inherent in the office and not derived from any modern Constitution.—Masonic Juris.—MACKEY, p. 446; Masonic Juris.—SIMONS,
p . 253.
Linnitations.—The Grand Master is not the creature of the Grand Lodge; the office existed before the organization of Grand Lodges. I t is not contended, however, that the Grand Lodge may not in some degree deflne the duties of this office and regulate the powers of this office, yet the written ConBtitution and laws relating to this subject are, in general, exempllflcatlons of the common law of Masonry.—BASSETT. B e a d of t h e Fraternity.—The Grand Master is by virtue of his office the head of the whole Fraternity. He is not only entitled but bound, in the faithful discharge of his duty, to superintend the transactions of the Craft, to Interfere in all congregations of Masons and prevent the commission of wrong, and to see that the Landmarks and Usages of Antiquity, and the Constitution and Laws of the Grand Lodge and every Lodge in the jurisdiction are preserved and obeyed.—Masonic Juris.—MACKEY, p. 455. Dispensation—Qualifications of C a n d i d a t e . — T h e Grand Master possesses no prerogative to grant special dispensations for conferring the Degrees of Ancient Craft Masonry upon candidates not having the requisite qualifications.—SHAVER, G .-. M .-. 1898.
SEC. 3. Deputy and Wardens.—The Deputy Grand Master, Grand Senior Warden and Grand Junior Warden shall severally perform the duties of their respective offices according to established usage, and they shall actively assist the Grand Master in the proper government of the Craft, and counsel and support him in every laudable undertaking; and, whenever commanded, they , shall attend and aid him in conducting the public ceremonies. Prerogatives.—The Deputy Grand Master appears to have no powers or duties except such as are provided expressly by law or regulation. The
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
CONSTITUTION.
15 ARTICLE I I I .
same may be said of tlie Grand Senior Warden and Grand Junior Warden, except the latter have specified ritualistic duties. Each of these officers has certain prerogatives or privileges, which are: (1) To succeed to the duties, powers and privileges of Grand Master under certain conditions; (2) to preside over any assembly of the Craft under similar conditions; (3) to require a Lodge to assemble in stated or special communication. (By-Law 72).—BASSETT.
SEC. 4. Council of Administration.—The Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Grand Senior Warden and Grand Junior Warden shall constitute a Council of Administration, in whom shall be vested the legal title to, and right of possession of, all the property and records of this Grand Lodge, with full power and authority to exercise this right of ownership and possession, whenever in the judgment of any three of them the best interests of the Grand Lodge require it. Leiial Provisions.—By-Laws 28, 47, 50, 51.
SEC. 5. Grand Treasurer.—The Grand Treasurer, in addition to the duties which devolve on him by usage, shall make an annual report to the Grand Lodge of the transactions of his office, and render an account of all moneys received and paid out, accompanied by vouchers for his disbursements. He shall pay over to his successor any balance remaining in his hands, and execute to the Council of Administration such bond for the faithful discharge of his duties as may be by law required. Legal Provisions.—By-Laws 26, 45, 46, 47, 48, 50, 51. History arid Duties.—The office of Grand Treasurer was first authorized in 1721. (Reg. X I I I . App. p. 56.) The Grand Treasurer was constituted a member of the Grand Body by virtue of his office, but he could move the Grand Lodge only upon those matters which concerned his office. His duties are prescribed by regulation. It was not until 1739 that this office assumed a separate and distinct position.—Masonic Juris.—MACKEY, 476.
SEC. 6. Grand Secretary.—^The Grand Secretary, in addition to the duties which devolve on him by usage, shall act as Librarian and shall make annual reports to the Grand Lodge of the transactions of his offices, rendering an account of all moneys received, accompanied by the Grand Treasurer's receipts therefor, and shall prepare checks covering the mileage and expenses of those entitled
16 CONSTITUTION.
GRAND
LODGE OF
KANSAS. ARTICLE III.
to the same, and mileage to the representatives of Lodges, and any others as provided by law, and submit them to the Committee on Finance, together with a pay roll setting forth the amount of mileage and allowances. He shall transmit to his successor all the records, books and papers belonging to his office, and execute to the Council of Administration such bond for the faithful discharge of his duties as may be by law required. He shall appoint an Assistant, and employ such other help as may be necessary and expedient in properly conducting the affairs of his offices, and in the maintenance of the Grand Lodge Building. I.e^al Provisions.—-By-Laws 24, 27, 30, 44, 48, 49, 50, 61, 62, 63. G r e a t Seal.—By-Law 16. History a n d Duties.—The office of Grand Secretary was flrst authorized In 1721. (Reg. X I I I , App. p. 56.) The Grand Secretary was constituted a member of the Grand Body by virtue of his ofHce. His duties are prescribed by regulation. He Is the Keeper of the Great Seal, and his signature Is essential to the validity of any document which emanates from the Grand Lodge.— Masonic Juris.—MACKEY, 478.
SEC. 7. Subordinate Oflacers.—The Subordinate Officers shall perform such duties as by usage appertain to their respective offices. They shall attend the Grand Master when commanded, and be obedient on all occasions to lawful authority. Every officer shall perform such other and additional duties as may be required by law or regulation; but no service shall ever be from any one required, which can in any manner conffict with the duties he owes to his GOD, to his country, to his neighbor or to himself. Duties.—The Grand Marshal forms and directs all public processions of the Grand Lodge, conducts the Grand Offlcers-elect In the ceremony of installation and maltes proclamations in the name of the Grand Master or Grand Lodge. His ensign of offlce is a baton. The Grand Sword Bearer carries the sword of state before the Grand Master in all public processions of the Grand Lodge. The first mention of this officer appears in the account of a procession In 1730. (Conit., 1st ed., ANDERSON) The Grand Pursuivant is the lowest officer in the Grand Lodge except the Grand Tyler. The proper function of this officer is that of a Herald. He is the Grand Master's messenger: his peculiar duty in the Grand Lodge is to announce visitors. Other duties are prescribed by regulation or by the Grand Master. The duties of the other subordinate officers are so well known that their recitation is unnecessary.—BASSETT.
GRAND
LODOE
OF KANSAS.
CONSTITUTION.
17 ARTICLE IV.
ARTICLE IV. SECTION 1. Opening—Quorum.—^To authorize the opening of the Grand Lodge at any Annual Communication, there must be not less than seven Lodges represented by their Masters in person, and if at any time after the Grand Lodge has been opened, a less number than seven Lodges are found to be so represented, the Grand Master shall suspend business until a quorum shall be present, and may in his discretion enforce the attendance of seven Masters by summons, or declare the Grand Lodge at refreshment, or closed. Seven.—The number seven here fixed upon, while it is wholly arbitrary. Is nevertheless typical. To open a Lodge and transact business at a Stated Communication requires the presence of seven members; and so it is by this provision declared that at an Annual Communication there shall be seven members present to authorize the opening of the Grand Lodge and the transaction of its business. In the Lodge all members are peers, but in the Grand Lodge there are two grades, and a quorum of the highest grade is required.— BABBETT.
S n n i m o n s . — T h e summons is an imperative command.— Charges of a Freemason, App. p. 75, Note.
SEC. 2. Opening—^RoU Call.—At the tinie and place designated for the meeting of the Grand Lodge, the Grand Master shall assemble the members and direct the Grand Secretary to call the roll of Lodges, and if it shall appear that a quorum is present the Grand Lodge shall be opened; but if a quorum shall not be found present, the Grand Marshal shall make proclamation of adjournment to some hour certain, when in like manner the roll of Lodges shall be called, and so from time to time until a quorum shall be present. Application.—This and the preceding section relate to the Annual Communication and such Special Communications as may in an emergency be called for the transaction of business, but do not regulate such special meetings as may be held for conducting the ceremonies either privately or publicly.—BASSETT.
SEC. 3. Opening Ceremony.—The ceremony prescribed for opening the Grand Lodge shall be strictly observed, and when it is conducted by the Grand Master,
18
GRAND LODGE
OF
CONSTITUTIOiSr.
KANSAS. ARTICLE IV.
or by any Past Officer entitled to be addressed as Most Worshipful, it shall be declared "opened in ample form." When it is conducted by any Officer or Past Officer entitled to be addressed as Right Worshipful, it shall be declared "opened in due form." F o r m s bistinjiuishcd.—Any ceremony performed by the Grand Master ia said to be done in ample form; when performed by the Deputy Grand Master It is said to be in due form, and by any other temporarily presiding officer it is in form.—Encyc. Freemasonry.—MACKEY, 63. But this provision makes the Past and Present Officers of like rank equal, and makes the Grand Wardens the peers of the Deputy Grand Master.— BASSETT.
SEC. 4. Voting.—Every member of the Grand Lodge at any election by ballot, or upon any question under consideration shall have one vote; Provided, In case of a tie, the Grand Master shall have one additional or casting vote. All voting in the Grand Lodge, except as otherwise provided by law, shall be by a show of hands; but if a division is called for by three or more members the vote shall be taken by rising, when the count shall be made by the Grand Stewards. l>e^al Prorisions.—By-Law 52. C a s t i n g Vote.—-This is an old regulation (Reg. 1721, App. p. 56) and Is so generally recognized that it has by some writers been declared a prerogative.— Masonic Lam.—LOCKWOOD, p. 23; Masonic Juris.—SIMONS, p. 265.
SEC. 5. Standing Committees.—The Standing Committees of the Grand Lodge shall consist of the following members, to be appointed by the Grand Master at the close of each Annual Communication, and shall continue for one year, subject to such changes in membership as the Grand Master from time to time may deem expedient, and be designated as follows: (1) On Credentials; (2) On Reports of Grand Officers; (3) On Finance; (4) On Jurisprudence; (5) On Trials and Punishments, consisting of five members each; (6) On Chartered Lodges and Lodges Under Dispensation; (7) On General Purposes; (8) On Investigation of Records and Property, consisting of three members each; (9) On Correspondence, and (10) On Necrology, consisting of one member each. I.e£al Psovisions.—By-Laws
29-40.
GRAND CONSTITUTION.
LODGE OF KANSAS.
19 ARTICLE IV.
SEC. 6. "Webb Work."—The Work of the three Degrees of Ancient Craft Masonry, including the Lectures appertaining thereto, is the "Webb Work," as exemplified by the "Board of Custodians" before the Grand Lodge a t its session held in the City of Leavenworth in the month of October, in the year one thousand eight hundred and sixty-seven, and which has since that time been retained and disseminated in this Grand Jurisdiction by the Custodians of the Work.' Every Lodge shall procure this Work through authorized Instructors, and'shall practice the same in all the ceremonies of conferring the several Degrees. Legal Provisions.—By-Laws 42, 43, 58, 97, 105, 139. T h o m a s S m i t h Wcbh.—In the last decennium of the eighteenth century a lecture-maker appeared among the American Masons, and to THOMAS SMITH W E B B we are indebted for our present system of Lodge Lectures.—Encyc. Freemasonry.—MACKEY, p . 454. Exemplification a n d Adoption.—At the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge in 1866, a committee, designated the "Board of Custodians," was appointed to report the Webb Work at the next Annual Communicaoion. This report was made and the work exemplified by the Custodians as follows: the First Degree by Bro. OWEN A. BASSETT, (9); the Second Degree by W.-. EDWAHD A . SMITH, (8); and the Third Degree by M.-.W.'. JOHN H . BROWN,
(10).
The work was approved and the report adopted.—BASSETT. C u s t o d i a n s Discontinued.—In 1909 the Grand Lodge abolished the law authorizing the appointment of a Board of Custodians.—COM. R E V . 1929. Lecturers.—-As a means of disseminating the Work and Lectures, the Grand Lodge, in 1909, authorized the appointment, by the Grand Master, of such number of Lecturers as in his judgment is necessary.—COM. REV. 1929. Authorized Instructors.—This is mandatory, and if a Lodge shall neglect to procure the work through Authorized Instructors and practice the same, it is liable to a forfeiture of its Warrant (Const., Art. VIII, Sec. 2); but this does not deprive the Master of his prerogative to assemble his Lodge and instruct it, provided he conforms to the prescribed system according to the best of his skill and understanding; nor does it prohibit him from calling upon any wellinformed member of his Lodge to give instruction.—BASSETT. S h a v e r ' s Monitor.—At the Annual Communication of 1893 Shaver's Monitor was adopted as the oflElcial Monitor of this Grand Jurisdiction.—Proc. 1893, p. 198.
D u t y of Lodges.—Every Lodge is bound to work, according to the rules prescribed by the Grand Lodge to which it owes allegiance; yet if it be authorized to work, and working shall omit any requirement, or proceed irregularly, the work so done shall be held good and lawful and must pass inspection; good faith to the Mason so made requires this, for he could not have knowledge of rules peculiar to Freemasons before his admission among them.— BASSETT.
Healing Process.—The Grand Lodge declared in 1874: "When a Lodge is Irregularly, but in good faith, opened and work is done, the work must be
20
GRAND
LODGE
OF
CONSTITUTION.
KANSAS. A R T I C L E V.
held regular;" and in 1875: " E v e r y Lodge is bound to work according to the rules prescribed by the Grand Lodge to which it owes allegiance, and, when the work is done, it is good and lawful and must pass Inspection." Upon these, this general rule is founded, and hereunder, no healing process is practiced or known in this Grand Jurisdiction.—BASSETT. Work o n Several C a n d i d a t e s . — T h e only part of the Work of the Degrees that can be conferred on more than one candidate at the same time is the second section, or Middle Chamber Work, of the Fellow-Craft Degree. If the same Degree be conferred on several candidates the same day, the lectures and charge may be given to all at the same time.—WEBB, G .-. M .•. 1900. Work.—A Lodge cannot confer Degrees in separate rooms at the same time.—PETERS, G.: M.: 1908. C a n n o t Affirm.—A man, to be made a Mason, must be obligated in exact conformity to the established ritual: that such obligation must be fortified by the belief of the candidate in Deity; that he cannot be permitted to affirm, but must take his obligations In the name of GOD.—WASHBON, G .-. M .-. 1910. L e c t u r e s S a m e C o m m u n i c a t i o n . — T h e lectures of the several Degrees, being a part thereof, must be given during the communication a t which the brother is obligated. If two or more candidates are obligated at the same communication, they can receive the lecture and charge together. The second section of the Second Degree is the only portion of the " W o r k " which can be conferred upon more than one candidate at the same time.—SHARy, G .•. M .•. 1912. One B r o t h e r a t a Time.—A Lodge cannot rightfully confer either the first or second section of the Third Degree on more than one brother at the same time.—CLABK. G.-.M.-. 1895.
ARTICLE V. SECTION 1. Lodges U.-. D.-.—^Authority.—The Grand Master may grant Letters of Dispensation to seven or more Master Masons, authorizing them to assemble from time to time at such place as may be designated, and open and hold a Lodge and therein confer the Degrees of Ancient Craft Masonry upon such candidates as they may accept subject to the regulations governing in such cases, and discharge all their duties according to the prescribed form. The authority so granted shall continue in force until it shall expire by express limitation, unless sooner surrendered by the petitioners, or revoked by the Grand Master. I.e£al Provisions.—-By-Laws 97-102, 104, 105. L e t t e r s o l Dispensation.—This is a prerogative of the Grand Master. —Did. Freemasonry.—MORRIS, p. 139. By some of the best American authorities, it is said to be a Landmark. (Landmarks, App. pp. 4, 14.) The powers here conferred on the Grand Master are inherent in his oiHcc.—BASSETT.
GRAND CONSTITUTION.
LODGE OF KANSAS.
21 ABTIOLB V.
Work.—A Lodge U.'. D .-. in its Masonic worlc is governed In all respects by the rules prescribed for the regulation of lilte work in chartered Lodges.— BASSETT.
Power ol G r a n d Master.—The Grand Master may add names to or drop them from the roll of a Lodge tJ.". D.:—By-Law 99. Territorial Jurisdiction.—-A Lodge U.'. D.'. has the same rights of territorial jurisdiction as it would have were it a chartered Lodge.—LAMB, G..M.-. 1889.
SEC. 2. Lodges U.-. D.-.—Petition.—The Letters of Dispensation mentioned in the preceding section shall be granted only on the petition of the Brothers who are to be authorized to open and hold the proposed Lodge and to work therein. In such petition there shall be nominated one Brother for Master, one Brother for Senior Warden and one Brother for Junior Warden. Every petitioner shall produce satisfactory evidence of dimission from the Lodge of which he was last a member, or show that such Lodge has ceased to exist. Legal Provisions.—By-Laws 97-102, 104, 105. Master.—The Brother who is recommended for Master should be a Past Master or a Past Warden; if none of the petitioners possess these qualifications, the Grand Master may exercise his prerogative by appointing any Master Mason.—BASSETT.
Non-Affiliation.—Non-afflliatlon has never commended Itself to Masonry; instead, it has always been considered as a disregard of Masonic duty. It is one of the earliest subjects of Grand Lodge legislation (Reg 1721, App. p. 54), and this requirement is Inconsistent with the declarations each petitioner is required to make.—-BAsaETT.
SEC. 3. Lodges U.-.D.-.—Consent.—Before the petition mentioned in the preceding section shall be presented to the Grand Master, it must contain the consent of the Lodge nearest to the place where the proposed new Lodge is to be located. Legal Provisions.—By-Laws 97-102, 104, 105. C o n c u r r e n t Jurisdiction.—^When the nearest Lodge has concurrent territorial jurisdiction with one or more Lodges, as provided in Section 1, Article VI, of the Constitution, all the Lodges, having such concurrent territorial jurisdiction, must give their consent. If, however, the proposed new Lodge is situated outside of the corporate limits of the city in which several Lodges are located and have concurrent jurisdiction, it will only be necessary to have the consent of the Lodge nearest the location of the proposed new Lodge. This contemplates of course that if more than one Lodge meets in the same hall which is nearest the proposed location, the consent of all must be obtained.— COM. R E V . 1929.
22 CONSTITUTION.
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS. A R T I C L E V.
SEC. 4. Lodges TJ/. D.-.—Powers and Duties.—The Master and Wardens appointed by the Grand Master require no other authority than that contained in the Letters of Dispensation to assemble the petitioners and commence their labors. The Master shall appoint the officers subordinate to the Wardens and may fill any vacancy in their stations. Within ten days after the expiration of his authority to work, the Master shall report to the Grand Secretary a transcript of his proceedings and a return of his work. The powers of a Lodge Under Dispensation are limited to accepting candidates for the Mysteries of Masonry, and conferring the Degrees on them. Leftal Provision.—By-Law 3G. C o m m e n c i n i i Work.—For many years prior to the adoption of this Constitution, it had been the practice for the Grand Master to attend in person, or to commission some Past Master to represent him and "set the nev, Lodge at worlc." Just what authority was by such commission vested has never been quite clearly shown, nor has any particular ceremony, through the years of this practice, so far crystallized as to give it place among the ceremonies of the Institution. No such formality is now required.—BASSETT. S u b o r d i n a t e Officers.—All officers of a Lodge U .. D .. subordinate to the Wardens hold their oDlces or places at the pleasure of the Master, bnt it is the best usage, when one is found well qualified for the discharge of any duty, to continue him in the performance of that duty.—BASSETT. Transcript.—The transcript her^ referred to is merely a copy of the minutes, which should be kept substantially in the same form as by any chartered Lodge; the return of work should be made in such form as the Grand Secretary may prescribe.—^BASSETT. ReprcHentatives.—Hereafter delegates from Lodges under dispensation may be admitted to seats in the Grand Lodge, but shall not be entitled to participate in its business until the Lodges they represent be duly constituted under Warrants of Constitution, and the officers thereof Installed.—Si. Reg. 1860. Powers Withheld.—To deflne more clearly the powers conferred, it may be well to show what ordinary privileges and powers are withheld from a Lodge U.'. D.'.: (1) It cannot be represented in Grand Lodge; (2) It cannot make By-Laws; (3) it cannot elect or install officers; (4) it cannot elect members (Masonic Juris.—MACKEY, p. 301); (5) it cannot discipline Masons: (6) it cannot afflUate Masons; (7) it cannot dimit Masons.—Masonic Juris. —SIMONS, p. 67.
P e t i t i o n for Advancement—Lodges U .. D .'.—A Lodge Under Dispensation cannot accept a petition for advancement.—HOISINGTON, G . ' M .-. 1902.
GRAND CONSTITUTION.
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
23 A R T I C L E V.
SEC. 5. Warrant of Constitution.—The Grand Lodge may at any Annual Communication grant a Warrant of Constitution to seven or more Master Masons, who shall petition therefor, or who shall have been acting under Letters of Dispensation, to organize a new Lodge at any place within this Grand Jurisdiction, or in any territory or district of country over which no other Grand Lodge has, or exercises the right of exclusive jurisdiction. The authority so granted shall not be in force until the new Lodge shall be regularly constituted, and the Master and Wardens appointed in the Warrant are installed by the Grand Master, or by some other competent officer. Legal Provisions.—By-Laws 80, 103, 104, 106, 109. No Dispensation.—Under tills provision the Grand Lodge lias reserved the right to create a new Lodge without requiring the petitioners to undergo any probation under dispensation. In the exercise of this prerogative (for such it is) the consent of the nearest Lodge is unnecessary.—BASSETT. C o u n t r y W i t h o u t G r a n d Lodge.—That is, having no Grand Lodge established within its boundaries; in sucli countries all Grand Lodges have concurrent territorial jurisdiction.—Masonic Juris.^-SIMONS, p. 248. Regularly Constituted.—This is by the proclamation of the Grand Master, or by some one of no less rank than the Master of a Lodge holding the commission of the Grand Master, and is usually preceded by the consecration ceremony.—BASSETT. I n s t a l l a t i o n a n d Election.—When the Master and Wardens are Installed, It is the duty of the Master to appoint and install all offlcers subordinate to the Junior Warden. No election of officers can be held until the time prescribed by law for the annual election.—BAS.-?ETT.
SEC. 6. Ofl&cers of a Lodge.—The Officers of a Lodge shall be: (1) Master; (2) Senior Warden; (3) Junior Warden; (4) Treasurer; (5) Secretary; (6) Senior Deacon; (7) Junior Deacon; (8) Senior Steward; (9) Junior Steward; (10) Tyler. The first five Officers in the order named shall be chosen annually by ballot, at the stated communication on or next preceding December 15th and installed on or before St. John's Day, in December, and shall hold their offices until their successors are installed: Provided, No one shall be eligible to the office of Master until he has been installed and served as Warden in this Grand Jurisdiction. All other officers shall be appointed
24 CONSTITUTION.
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS, A R T I C L E V.
by the Master immediately after liis installation, and shall hold their offices during his pleasure. Legal Provisions.-—By-Laws 82-93. Additional Officers-—There is no limitation on the power to create additional offices, provided appointments thereto shall be made by the Master, and that the prescribed duties shall conform to Masonic usage.—BASSETT. Election a n d I n s t a l l a t i o n . — I f for any cause the annual election is not held on the day appointed, application must be made to the Grand Master for a dispensation to hold an election a t some stated communication; and If for any cause the offlcers-elect arc not installed within the time linilted, the Grand Master may authorize their installation.—BASSETT.
^ | S E C . 7. Quorum in Lodge.—A Lodge of Entered Apprentices consists of seven or more, and may be composed of one Master Mason, two Fellow-Crafts and four Entere'd Apprentices. A Lodge of Fellow-Crafts consists of five or more, and may be composed of two Master Masons and three Fellow-Crafts. A Lodge of Master Masons consists of three or more, and may be composed of three Master Masons; and any Lodge so constituted may be opened for labor, but in no case shall any business be transacted in any Lodge on any Degree, unless there shall be present at least seven Master Masons, who are members of such Lodge and entitled to vote therein. Legal Provisions.—By-Laws 70, 73. 136. Lodge Defined.—A Lodge is a place where Masons assemble and work. —Charges of a Freemason, App. p. 7J/. Under the present system. Lodges of Entered Apprentices and Fellow-Crafts exist only in theory, for they are held under the Warrant of a Lodge of Master Masons, and are legally such Lodge opened on the First or Second Degree.—Encyc. Freemasonry.—MACKEYp. 474. The composition of the Lodges here given is in conformity with ancient usage and as taught by the ritual.—BASSETT. Labor a n d Business.—Labor: This word when applied to the speculative art, signifies: (1) The esoteric ceremonies of conferring degrees: (2) exoteric ceremonies of constituting Lodges and the like. Business: This word, when applied to Lodge proceedings, refers: (1) To those matters which concern Masonry only; (2) to those matters which relate to the management of Lodge property and the like.—BASSETT. Work o n Several Candidates.—The only part of the work of the degrees t h a t can be conferred on more than one candidate at the same time is the second section, or Middle Chamber work, of the Fellow-Craft Degree. If the same degree be conferred on several candidates the same day, the lectures and charge may be given to all at the same time.—WEBB. G . ' . M .•. 1900. Work.—A Lodge cannot confer degrees in separate rooms at the same time.—PETERS, G .-. M .-. 1906.
GRAND CONSTITUTION.
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
'
25 A R T I C L E VI.
ARTICLE VI. SECTION 1. Jurisdiction of Lodges.—The Territorial Jurisdiction of a Lodge extends in every direction to such boundary line as shall be equi-distant between it and the nearest Lodge, but in no case beyond the boundaries of. this Grand Jurisdiction; and every Lodge has exclusive original jurisdiction over all candidates for the Mysteries of Masonry residing in its territory. When two or. more Lodges are located in the same incorporated village, town, or city, they shall have concurrent Territorial Jurisdiction and concurrent Original Jurisdiction over candidates. Legal Provisions.—By-Laws 110, 121, 130, 131, 132. Construction.—When a Lodge Is located In an Incorporated village, town or city. It may, by a majority vote, remove to any other place within such corporate limits without obtaining the consent of any other Lodge.— COM. R E V . 1929. C o n t i n u a n c e of Jurisdiction.—This continues over an accepted candidate until waived by the Lodge accepting him; but over a rejected candidate it continues only during the period of his residence within the territory of the Lodge rejecting him.—BASSETT. C o n c u r r e n t Jurisdiction.—When the original jurisdiction Is concurrent the Lodge first receiving the candidate's petition acquires exclusive jurisdiction; If the candidate be accepted this becomes perpetual, but if he be rejected it continues only for the period of six months after such rejection. Yet In Buch cases, comity will ordinarily prevent any other Lodge from receiving the petition of such rejected candidate.—BASSETT. Direct Lines.—Masons measure by direct lines in determining questions of territorial jurisdiction.—Proc. 1876, p. 6fi. Lodile V.: D .•.—A Lodge U .•. D .-. has the same rights of territorial jurisdiction as It would have were it a Chartered Lodge.—LAMB, G .•. M .•. 1889. J u r i s d i c t i o n of Lodges U .•. D .'.—When letters of dispensation are issued to a new Lodge, and during the continuance of such letters, such Lodge U .•. D .•. holds absolute territorial jurisdiction under the same rules and to the same extent as a chartered Lodge; but that upon the expiration of such letters, all power or rights under the same cease, and the territorial jurisdiction so held reverts to the chartered Lodges from which it was originally taken, and that STich chartered Lodges, hold the same absolutely until the new Lodge is chartered and constituted; and that, as to a pei^itioner whose petition is received, referred, and who is elected by such a chartered Lodge after the expiration of such letters, and before the new Lodge is ciiartered and constituted, absolute and perpetual jurisdiction is vested in such chartered Lodge.—WASHBON. G.-.M.-. 1910. Corporate Limits.—In determining questions of jurisdiction between two Lodges in different platted towns or cities, measurements should be made in a direct line (without reference to section Hoes) from the corporate borders
26 CONSTITUTION.
GRAND
LODGE
OF .
KANSAS. ARTICLE VI.
of the cities or platted towns In which such Lodges are respectively situated, but If either Lodge be situated without a platted town, then as to such Lodge the measurement must be had from the Lodge hall.—COM. REV. 1898. Removal.—A Lodge loses jurisdiction over material as soon as it passes beyond its jurisdiction lines, with bona fide intent to locate elsewhere.—POSTLBTBWAITE, G.-. M.'. 1891. C o n s t r o e d . — " Y o u r Committee believes that Article VI, Section 1, of the Constitution of this Grand Lodge defines the boundaries of this Grand Jurisdiction, and that no Lodge within its jurisdiction can assume jurisdictional control over material residing beyond the limits of this Grand Jurisdiction.':—COM. JURIS., Proc. 1895. p. lOli. D e s t r o c t i o n o£ Charter.^—A Lodge does not lose its territorial jurisdiction by reason of Its hall and charter having been destroyed, even though the Lodge holds no communications. It is the act of the Grand Lodge that creates the Lodge, and the charter is only the external evidence of its existence- The Lodge still lives and retains all its rights until the Grand Lodge revokes Its charter.—CALLAHAM, Q:. M.-. 1892.
SEC. 2. Residence of Petitioner for Mysteries.—A Lodge shall not receive a petition for the Mysteries of Masonry from any candidate, unless he is at the time, and has been for six months next preceding, an actual resident within its territorial jurisdiction, and for the year next preceding an actual resident of this Grand Jurisdiction; or in case of a sojourner, unless his petition is recommended by the Lodge within whose territorial jurisdiction he is an actual resident as aforesaid: Provided, The petition of a sojourner in the naval or military service may be received by the Lodge within whose jurisdiction he may be stationed, without regard to the period of such residence. L e g a l P r o v i s i o n . s . — B y - L a w s 110-114. F u r t h e r ProTisions.—Const. Art. VI. Sec 4, Notes. R e c o m m c n d a l i o i i . — T h i s recommendation, if it comes from a Lodge under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Kansas, may be made by a majority of the members of the Lodge giving it; but if it comes from a Lodge under the Jurisdiction of any other Grand Lodge, the regulations there in force are to be followed.—BASSETT. • Local Regulation.—The period of residence required is a matter of local regulation by Grand Lodges. The general rule relating to residence within the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodges Is as here stated, but there is considerable diversity as to the time required for residence within the jurisdiction of the Lodge.—BASSETT. SojonrneT.—A temporary habitant; one having a fixed place of abode to which he Intends to return when the present purpose of his temporary absence therefrom has been accomplished. The same period of time is required for a sojourner as for an a«tual resident.—BASSETT.
GRAND CONSTITUTION.
LODGE OF KANSAS.
27 A R T I C L E VI.
Sojourner.—An enlisted man In the United States Army, stationed at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, and who is not legally a citizen of the State, can only be recognized as being a sojourner, and the only Lodge In this Grand Jvirlsdlctlon to which he can petition is Hancock Lodge No. 311, Fort Leavenworth.—FITCH, G.-. M.-. 1905. Sojourner.— An enlisted man or a commissioned ofBcer In the United States Army, stationed at Fort Leavenworth, may petition Hancock Lodge No. 311, under his rights as a sojourner, irrespective of the place where he has previously exercised his right of citizenship, or where in good faith he declares his domicile to be.—COM. JURIS., Prdc. 1911, p. 2S7. Sojourner.—Such enlisted man or officer who may have resided In the State of Kansas one year and within the territorial jurisdiction of some Lodge six months, and who may In good faith have exercised the right of citizenship at that point, and may have left that point to engage In the military service, may declare his Intention to resume his residence at that point or to acquire residence in legal manner In some other portion of the State of Kansas, and when such residence shall have been acquired, may petition the Lodge within that jurisdiction even If still remaining in the military service and stationed at Fort Leavenworth.—COM. JURIS., Proc. 1911, p. 287. Ilaskell I n s t i t u t e — J u r i s d i c t i o n . — A resident at or on the Haskell I n stitute Reservation can legally petition any Lodge located in the city of Lawrence, Kansas, unless he has a fixed legal residence elsewhere. In which case, under Section 2, Ardcle VI, he can only petition a Lawrence Lodge as a sojourner.—FOWLER, G .'. M .'. 1928. Actual Resident.—To be an actual resident of a territorial jurisdiction of a Lodge, as that term is used in Section 2, Article VI, of the Constitution," Is to have a fixed legal residence therein for the time prescribed in said Section 2; "actual residence," as applied to a petitioner for the degrees, being synonymous with "legal residence."—CLARK, G .•. M .'. 1895. Sojourner's Residence.—Article VI, Section 2, Of the Constitution, does not contemplate or authorize the making a Mason of a sojourner (not In the naval or military service) who, at the time and for six months next preceding, has not actually been a temporary resident within the jurisdiction of the Lodge to which he petitions.—COM. JURIS., Proc. 1889., p. 101. Citizen a n d Resident.—A Lodge can receive the petition of a citizen of anotUer Country who has been a resident of this State for one year and who la at the time, and has been for six months next preceding, an actual resident within Its territorial jurisdiction.—SHARP, G .'. M .-. 1912. Residence—Candidate.—No applicant can legally petition any Lodge in this Grand Jurisdiction for the Mysteries of Masonry unless he be at t h a t time an actual—or a temporary—resident within the territorial jurisdiction of said Lodge; the necessary period of such residence being determined by Article VI, Section 2, of the Constitution.—SHAVER, G.-. M .-. 1898.
SEC. 3. Removal of Candidate.—If after a Lodge has accepted a candidate and conferred upon him at least one Degree, and before the other Degree or Degrees have been conferred he shall become a sojourner, or an actual resident within the territorial jurisdiction of another Lodge, the latter may receive such candidate's petition for advancement to such Degree or Degrees as he may not have
28 CONSTITUTION.
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS. ARTICLE VI.
previously received: Provided, Such petition shall be accompanied by a request or waiver from the former Lodge for the completion of the work: And provided further, That the Lodge completing the work shall do the same according to the laws and regulations of this Grand Jurisdiction, and if upon request, it shall be done as an act of courtesy. Legal Provisions.—By-Laws 110-119, 121-133. L i m i t a t i o n of " W a i v e r " or " R e q u e s t . " — I t will be observed from the above t h a t if no degree or degrees have been conferred on the candidate no "waiver" can be granted and no " r e q u e s t " made.-^COM. REV. 1929. L i m i t of Request.—A Lodge cannot request another Lodge to confer the Degrees as an act of courtesy, after the candidate shall have been, for more than two years, an actual non-resident of the jurisdiction of the Lodge originally accepting him. The Lodge If it desires the brother's advancement, must waive Jurisdiction.—COM. REV. 1913. R e q u e s t for Completion.—This rule is adopted for the accommodation of the candidate, and may be addressed " T o any Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons," so that the candidate may present his petition to any Lodge within whose jurisdiction he may chance to sojourn or reside, whether within or without this Grand Jurlsldlction.—COM. R E V . 1913. Removal of Candidate.—Where a petitioner for the Mysteries of Masonry permanently removes from ttie jurisdiction of a Lodge before the Committee of Investigation makes Its report, the Lodge loses jurlsdlcdon of him, and should cause his petition and deposit to be returned.—COLEMAN, G . - . M .•. 1897. Place of Membership.—The candidate does not become a member of the Lodge completing the worlr, when it is done by reauest, nor can the Lodge maldng the request give any instructions as to the manner of working, even in case the request comes from another Grand Jurisdiction wherein certain forms are prescribed, not practiced by the Lodge doing the work.—BASSETT. P e t i t i o n for Advancement.—A petition for advancement is required, in all cases, where an application for advancement is made to a Lodge, other than the one which accepted the applicant's petition for the Mysteries of Masonry.—LAMB, G.-. M.-. 1889. Waiver.—A Lodge cannot waive jurisdiction over a person who is at the time, and has been for six months next preceding, an actual resident within its territorial jurisdiction, and for the year next preceding an actual resident of this Grand Jurisdiction, unless it shall have accepted him as a petitioner for the Mysteries of Masonry or for advancement.—THOMPSON, G .•. M .'. 1894. Waiver.—A waiver of jurisdiction must be unconditional.—THOMPSON, G.-. M.-. 1894.
SEC. 4. Qualifications of Petitioner for Mysteries.— A candidate for the Mysteries of Masonry must be a man, free born, of sound mind, of mature age, without bodily defect, without physical disability, and living under the tongue of good report: Provided, No bodily
GRAND COKSTITUTION.
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
29 A R T I C L E VI.
defect or physical disability occurring after he has been made a Mason, shall disqualify him for advancement. The committee to whom the petition of such candidate is referred for investigation must make the most diligent and searching inquiry as to his qualifications, as well as to the jurisdiction of the Lodge. If it shall appear that the Lodge is without jurisdiction, this fact must be entered on the minutes and no further action taken on the petition. Legal Provisions.—By-Laws 110-114, 121-133. PreTious Prorision.—Const. Art. VI, Sec. 2, Notes. Beqairements.—This is recognized as a Landmark, for no rule has longer continued nor been more universally recognized.—Landmarks, App. p. 5, Par. XVIII; Id., App. p. 11, Par. X; Id., App. p. IS, Par. IV; Id., App. p. 16, Par. III. The Grand Lodge of England has departed from this rule so far as to substitute "free m a n " for "free born."—Charges of a Freemason, App. p. 75, note. Advancement.—This proviso may not be approved by many whose opinions are worthy of consideration, yet it is founded on the old rule that "all preferment among Masons is grounded upon real worth and personal merit only" (Charges of a Freemason, App. p. 75); and if any should be of the opinion that the context of this authority does not sustain the rule of this proviso, let him note the peculiar phraseology of the Landmarks quoted, and the authorities from which they are derivable.—Fifteen Articles, App. p. 17, Par. i; Fundamental Laws, App. p. 26, Art. XI; Beg. 1663, App. p. 3i, Par. t; General Charges, App. p. Ji5, Par. 3. The conclusion reached is, that the only qualifications which should be required and Inquired into for the advtincement of a Mason are his mental and moral fitness.—BABSETT. A|le of Candidate.—A petitioner for the mysteries must be twenty-one years old before he signs the petition.—HOISINQTON, G .". M .•. 1902. Precise Afie.—There is no precise age fixed to limit the qualifications of candidates for the Degrees of Masonry. The candidate must be in possession of the ordinary physical and mental faculties of perfect manhood.—ADAMS, O.-. M.-. 1868. Removal of Candidate.—Where a petitioner for the Mysteries of Masonry permanently removes from the jurisdiction of a Lodge before the Committee of Investigation makes its report, the Lodge loses Jurisdiction of him, and should cause his petition and deposit to be returned.—COLEMAN, G . . M .". 1897. B i r t h , Aje a n d H e a l t h That new-made Masons must be free born, o^ lawful age, and hale and sound at the time of making.—Landmarks of Maionrv, App. p. 13. W i t h o n t Blemish.—A candidate must be without blemish, and have the loll and proper use of his limbs: fbr a maimed man can do the Craft no good. —Oothic Constitutions—YORK, 926. Able Body.—No person hereafter shall b e accepted a Freemason b u t Biich as are of able body.—Regulations of 1663. B i ^ h t Limbs.—That he may be able in all degrees; that is, free born, of a good kindred, true, and no bondsman: and t h a t he have his right (perfect) limbs as a man ought to have.—The Ancient Charges at Makings, 1686.
30
CONSTITUTION.
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
ARTICLE V I .
Not M a i m e d . — H e must be in possession of all his limbs, not maimed or dismembered.—Encyc. of Freemasonry—MACKEY. Perfect Youth.—No Master should take an Apprentice unless he has saflBclent employment for him. and unless he be a perfect youth, ha-vlng no malm or defect in his body t h a t may render him incapable of learning the a r t of serving his Master's lord, and of being made a'brother.—Charges oj l~Zi. Special Dispensation.—The Committee of Revision. 1898, also quotes with approval the following decision made by Grand Master SHAVER: " T h e Grand Master possesses no prerogative to grant Special Dispensations for conferring the Degrees of Ancient Craft Masonry upon candidates not having the requisite quallflcatioBs." (See subdivision 15, note to Const. Art. I l l , Sec. 2.)
SEC. 5. Membership and Dimission.—A Lodge may receive the petition of an applicant for membership from any Master Mason in good standing, who shall produce satisfactory evidence that he has been regularly dimitted from the Lodge with which he was last affiliated, or that such Lodge has surrendered its Warrant, without regard to his place or the period of his residence, whether it is within or without the limits of this Grand Jurisdiction, or when such petition is accompanied by a Certificate of Transfer issued by a Lodge in this Grand Jurisdiction. Any member of a Lodge, not at the time holding any elective office therein, against whom no charges are pending and who is not under any pecuniary liabilities to his Lodge, shall be entitled to a dimit or Certificate of Transfer upon making application therefor at a Stated Communication, if a majority of all the members present shall sustain such application. Legal Provisions.—By-Laws 120-127, 151. Residence I m n i a t e r i a l . — A MasterMason has the right to apply for membership to any Lodge he may select.—Masonic Juris.—MACKEY, p. 201. Beiiulations.—The regulations relating to afllliation and dimission are not of the most ancient of t h e usages and customs of Masonry, for they were unknown until Lodges became permanent organizations. The oldest known are found In the Regulations of 1721, App. pp. 52, 54. The vote of the Lodge dlmlts a member and cannot be reconsidered; the certificate issued t)y the Secretary is merely evidence of dimission.—BASSETT. P e n n s y l v a n i a Dimit.—See note to By-Law 120.
GRAND CONSTITUTION.
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
31 ARTICLE VI.
SEC. 6. Proceedings Upon Petitions.—Every proceeding on the petition of a candidate for the Mysteries of Masonry, or of an applicant for Membership, must be taken at a Stated Communication of the Lodge; and a period of not less than four weeks must elapse from the date the petition is received and referred to the Committee of Investigation, and the time of their report and final action thereon by ballot. When a candidate for the Mysteries of Masonry has been accepted, he may immediately, or at any time thereafter, be initiated an Entered Apprentice; but a period of not less than four weeks must elapse between the times of conferring the First and Second Degrees, and between the times of conferring the Second and Third Degrees. Legal Provisions.—By-Laws 110-113, 117, 125. C a n d i d a t e a n d Applicant.—Candidate: This is applied to petitioners for the Mysteries of Masonry and for Advancement. Applicant: One who Is a petitioner for Membership.—BASSETT. Accepted.—This word has been defined as used In the title of the Grand Lodge.—Const. Art. I, Sec. 1, Note. Here and elsewhere in this Constitution It signifies that the petition has been received, reported on, and the candidate elected (a term frequently but improperly used in this connection) by a unanimous ballot.—BASSETT. P r o b a t i o n a r y Period.—Some Lodges holding two Stated Communications In each month have .conceived the idea that the probationary period extends only from one Stated Communication to the next. This is erroneous, amd therefore the rule in such cases is here deflnitely prescribed.—-BASSETT. I n d o r s e m e n t of Dimit.—Whenever a brother is elected to membership, the fact and date thereof shall be written across the face of the dimit, signed by the Secretary and attested by the Lodge seal.—St. Reg. 1882.
SEC. 7. Proceedings Upon Petitions.—A unanimous ballot shall be required for the acceptance of a candidate for the Mysteries of Masonry, or of a sojourner for Advancement, or of an applicant for Membership: Provided, If but one negative ballot appears the Master shall order a second ballot, when if one or more negative ballots appear the petition shall be rejected. The petition of such rejected candidate shall not be renewed within six months; but the petition of such rejected sojourner, or such rejected applicant may be renewed at any time.. Before any candidate is advanced to the Second or Third
32
GRAND
LODGE
CONSTITUTION.
OF
KANSAS. A R T I C L E VI.
Degree, he must exhibit suitable proficiency in the preceding Degree, and on demand of any member of the Lodge the ballot must be taken in the same manner as on the petition. Legal Provisions.—By-Laws 110, 124, 128. U n a n i m o u s Ballot.—This Is in accordance with the oldest rule upon the subject (Reg. 1721, App. p. 52) and no power can set this rule aside.— BASSBTT.
E x a m i n a t i o n and - A d v a n c e m e n t . — T h e examination of a candidate should be in Lodge opened on the Degree in which he Is required to exhibit suitable proficiency. When the examination Is concluded, the Lodge should be called to labor on the Degree next in course and the matter of proficiency passed on. If a ballot should be demanded, it should be talten without delay; and If for the Advancement of an Entered Apprentice, it may be talcen in the Lodge opened on the Second Degree.—BASSETT. P e t i t i o n for Advancement.—-A petition for Advancement is required, In all cases, where an application for Advancement is made to a Lodge, other than the one which accepted the applicant's petition for the Mysteries of Masonry.—LAMB, G.-. M .-. 1889. Examination.—An applicant for Advancement, as contemplated in Article VI, Section 7, of the Constitution, may be examined either at a Special or Stated Communication of the Lodge, as to his proficiency In the preceding degree.—SHELDON, G .-. M .-. 1887.
Secret Ballot.—A rejected petitioner for the Mysteries of Masonry, or for Advancement, or a candidate who has been stopped from Advancement by written or oral objection, has no right to know by whom he has been denied that for which he petitioned. Any one conveying such information commits an offense against the Body of Masonry.—CALLAHAM, G.'. M .'. 1892. S u i t a b l e Proficiency.—Before any candidate is advanced to the Second or Third Degree, he must exhibit suitable proficiency in the preceding degree in open Lodge.—FULLER,'G.•. M . . 1893. I n s t r u c t i o n of Entered Apprentice.—An Entered Apprentice against whose advancement an objection has been interposed, is entitled to instruction In the first degree, to pass his proficiency in the same and have it accepted, to attend communications, and generally to any right or privilege accorded any other Entered Apprentice.—SHARP. G.-. M . - . 1912. Balloting—Method—Reconsideration.—When a ballot Is taken upon the petition of a candidate for the Mysteries of Masonry, or of a brother for Advancement or Membership, and one negative ballot appears, the Master should, at once, without comment and without permitting any remarks, order a second ballot, when, If one or more negative ballots appear, the Master should declare the petitioner rejected. After such declaration of rejection, the Master should not reopen or retake the ballot, or entertain any proposition for Its reconsideration, under any pretense whatsoever.—SHAVER, G .". M .". 1898
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
CONSTITUTION.
33 ARTICLE VII.
ARTICLE VII. SECTION 1. Removal of Lodge.—-Any Lodge may remove from the place of its location to any other place within the limits of its territorial jurisdiction, when it shall appear: First, That such removal will better accommodate the members of the Lodge; Second, That two-thirds of the resident members desire such removal; Third, That the Lodges whose jurisdiction may be materially infringed have consented thereto. The proposition for removal may be submitted at any Stated Communication. All the resident members shall within ten days thereafter be notified of the proposition, and if at the next Stated Communication two-thirds of all the members present shall agree thereto, the proceedings shall be certified to the Grand Master, who shall issue his edict for the removal. l.«^al Provision.—By-Law 75. C o n s t m c t i o n . — W h e n a Lodge Is located in an incorporated village, town or city, it may, by a majority vote, remove to any other place within such corporate limits without obtaining ihe consent of any other Lodge, and without certifying the proceedings to the Grand' Master.—^COM. R E V . 1929.
SEC. 2. Consolidation of Lodges.—When two Lodges, whose jurisdiction is common or adjoining, desire to consolidate, a proposition therefor may be submitted to the Lodges at any Stated Communication. All the resident members shall, within ten days thereafter, be notified of the proposition, and if at the next Stated Communication of each Lodge two-thirds of the members present agree thereto, the two Lodges shall be consolidated under the Warrant, name and number of the senior Lodge, and the officers of such Lodge shall be continued. The proceedings shall be certified to the Grand Master, who shall issue his edict for the consolidation and order the Master of the junior Lodge to transmit to the Grand Secretary the Warrant and seal of his Lodge.
34
GRAND
CONSTITUTION.
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
ARTICLE VII.
Disposition of Property.—In cases of consolidation all the funds and other property of both Lodges become the property of the senior Lodge. The Grand Secretary, on receipt of the Warrant and seal of the junior Lodge should cancel the former and efface the latter and place them in the archives of the Grand Lodge.—BABSETT.
SEC. 3. Surrender of Warrant.—Any Lodge may surrender its Warrant of Constitution, whenever a less number than seven resident members are desirous of continuing the organization. The proposition for such surrender may be submitted at any Stated Communication. All the resident members shall, within ten days thereafter, be notified of the proposition, and if at the next Stated Communication two-thirds of all the members present agree thereto, and less than seven resident members oppose the same, the Warrant shall be surrendered. The proceedings shall be certified to the Grand Master, who shall issue his edict of dissolution and order the Master to transmit to the Grand Secretary the Warrant, seal, jewels, furniture, records, funds and property of the Lodge. Prevented b y Seven.—The Warrant of a Lodge may be surrendered by the voluntary act of its members, after due summons, and when the minority opposed to such surrender is less than seven; for seven Master Masons are competent to form a Lodge, therefore, so long as that number remain faithful and desire to retain the Warrant, it cannot be surrendered.—Masonic Juris.— SIMONS, 71.
T i t l e o£ Property.—The general usage relating to the title of property is here distinctly stated, that none may plead ignorance of the law; for in such cases there is sometimes an absence of that spirit of submission to constituted authority, which Is so essential to good government, whether of society or the State.—BASSETT.
•
Title of Property.—Upon the forfeiture or surrender of its Charter, the Jewels, records and property of a Lodge escheat to the Grand Lodge.—Masonic Law—LocKWo'oD, p. 52. A Lodge holds all of its funds and property In trust for Masonic uses, and the Grand Lodge, being the common head of the Craft, is the legitimate successor to the trust. This is and has been for so long a period the general usage that it has become the law and may be, if occasion should ever require it, enforced by the laws of the land.—BASSETT. Forfeiture of Property.—As a Lodge owes Its existence and all its rights and privileges to the Grand Lodge from which it derives its Warrant, it Is a principle of Masonic law that when a Lodge ceases to exist, all the property which it possessed at the time of its dissolution vests in the Grand Lodge.— Sncvc. Freemasonry—MACKBT, p. 612. This rule of law Is hereinafter diatlncsly stated.—Const. Art. VII, Sec. U.
GRAND CONSTITUTION.
LODGE OF KANSAS.
35 ARTICLE VII.
SEC. 4. Revocation of Warrant.—The Warrant of Constitution of any Lodge may be revoked for such causes and by such proceedings as may be prescribed by law. The declaration of forfeiture shall vest all the property of such Lodge in the Grand Lodge, and shall be conclusive upon the Lodge and all of its members. As soon as the forfeiture is declared, the Grand Secretary shall certify the fact to the Grand Master, who shall issue an edict of revocation and order the Grand Pursuivant to take possession of the Warrant, seal, jewels, furniture, records, funds and property of such Lodge and deliver the same to the Grand Secretary; and it shall be the duty of the officers of such Lodge to aid the Grand Pursuivant in the proper execution of the order of the Grand Master. CnuBes of Forfeitare.—See Const. Art. V l l , Sec. 2. PreroftatiTes of G r a n d Master.—See Const. Art. I l l , Sec. 2, notes. Title of P r o p e r t y The general usage relating to the title of property la here distinctly stated, that none may plead Ignorance of the law; for In such cases there is sometimes an absence of that spirit of submission to constituted authority, which Is so essential to good government, whether of society or the State. BA88ETT. Title of Property.—Upon the forfeiture or surrender of Its Charter, the jewels, records and property of a Lodge escheat to the Grand Lodge.—Masonic Law—LocKWOOD, p. 52. A Lodge holds all of its funds and property In trust for Masonic uses, and the Grand Lodge, being the common head of the Craft, Is the legitimate successor to the trust. This is and has been for so long a period the general usage that it has become the law and may be, if occasion should ever require It, enforced by the laws of the land.—BASSETT. Forfeiture of Property.—As a Lodge owes Its existence and all Its rights and privileges to the Grand Lodge from which it derives its Warrant, it Is a principle of Masonic law that when a Lodge ceases to exist, all the property which It possessed at the time of its dissolution vests in the Grand Lodge.— Encyc. Freemasonry—MACKEY, p. 612.
SEC. 5. Proceedings After Surrender or Revocation.— When a Lodge has surrendered its Warrant of Constitution, or when such Warrant has been revoked, the Master and Secretary shall make a report to the Grand Secretary for the period commencing with the date of the last annual report, and ending with the date of such surrender or revocation. This report shall be made in the same form as an annual report, and shall include an inventory of,
36 CONSTITUTION.
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS. A B T I C L E VII.
the property of the Lodge, and a statement of the balances due from the members on account of annual dues, or otherwise. The Grand Secretary shall collect all such balances, and give to each member in good standing a certificate showing the date of such surrender or revocation, which shall have the force and effect of the usual certificate of dimission from a Lodge. SEC. 6. Annual Report and Dues.—Every Lodge shall make an annual report in such form as the Grand Secretary may prescribe, showing: First, The full names of the officers and members of the Lodge; Second, All the changes in membership during the year; and Third, The work done since the last report, and giving such other information as the Grand Secretary may require. This report shall be made on the last day of such month as shall be more than twenty-eight, and less than fiftynine days before the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge, and transmitted to the Grand Secretary within ten days thereafter. No Lodge shall be represented by its Master or Wardens in the Grand Lodge at any Annual Communication until such report is made, nor until its annual dues are paid as provided by law. liefial Provision.—By-Law 109. F o r m of Report.—The blank forms for these returns are furnished only by the Grand Secretary, and are subject to such changes from time to time as he may direct.—BASSETT. T i m e for Report.—Under this regulation, ample time is assured for making the returns, and causing a proper inspection of the same, before the date of the Annual Communication.—BASSETT.
SEC. 7. Revenues of Grand Lodge.—The revenues of the Grand Lodge shall be derived from: First, An annual per capita tax on the members of the Lodges; Second, Fees for Letters of Dispensation and Warrants for new Lodges; the rate or fee in each case shall be prescribed by law. The per capita tax shall be collected by the Lodges, and each Lodge shall annually pay the whole amount due on account of its membership. No rebate shall be allowed to any Lodge by reason of the
GRAND OONSTITTJTION.
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
,
37 ARTICLE VIH.
neglect of any of its members to pay the taxes, or by reason of any member being borne on its rolls as exempt from dues. The Grand Lodge has authority from time to time to make special assessments on the Lodges ratably on their membership, to meet its current or any extraordinary expenses. Legal Provisions.—By-Laws 98, 104, 108, 109. Special Assessments.—See note under Const. Art. VIII. Sec. 6. Per Capita Tax.—Generally called "Grand Lodge dues." Every Grand Lodge has the right to Impose a tax on Lodges or on all affiliated Masons living within its Jurisdiction.—-Masonic Juris.—MACKBT, p. 432. No M e m b e r Exempt.—If this be a burden it rests equally on all and Is salutary in this, that it does away with any strife among the Lodges as to which shall present the largest exempt list.—BASSBTT. Power t o Tax.—That the power to impose taxes is a prerogative of every sovereignty is a doctrine which it would be an act of supererogation to defend, for no political economist has ever doubted it.—Masonic Juris.—MACKXT, p . •i33.
ARTICLE VIIL SECTION 1. Offense Against the Body of Masonry.— Every Mason who shall willfully violate the Moral Law or any of the Ancient Landmarks or Charges of a Freemason, or the Constitution and Laws of the Grand Lodge, or the laws of the Lodge to which he belongs, or the laws of the country in which he may reside, or disregard his obligations and the established usages of the Fraternity, or do any act which shall tend to impair the purity of the Institution of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masonry, shall be guilty of an offense against the Body of Masonry, and on due trial and being found guilty, shall be punished in such manner and to such extent as may be provided by law: Provided, No penalty shall be prescribed other than reprimand, or suspension or expulsion from all the rights and privileges of Masonry. Legal Moral Moral Charges of
Provisions.—By-Laws 154 ei seQ. Law.—Ten Commandments. Law.—A Mason is bound by his tenure to obey the moral law.— a Freemason, App. p. 72.
38
GRAND
LODEO
OF
CONSTITUTION.
KANSAS. ,
ARTICLE
VIII.
M a s o n i c Ofiense.-—A violation of a n y of these is a Masonic offense. —Afojonic Text Book—DRUMMOND, 213. Masonic Juris.—SIMONS, p. 212. B e p n t a t i o n . — M a s o n s should so live and act as to be above t h e taint of moral reproach, and their course should be such as t o reflect bright luster upon t h e principles t h e y profess.—Oration—LIKENS. Every O f i e n s e a C r i i n o . — I n Masonry, every offense is a crime, because in every violation of a Masonic law there is not o n l y sometimes an infringement of t h e rights of an individual, but always, superinduced by this, " a breach and violation of public rights and duties," which affect the whole c o m m u n i t y of t h e Order.—Masonic Juris.—MACKEY, p. 499. C i v i l C o n t r a c t . — A subscription, b y a Mason, of stoclc, or to a fund for he erection of a building for Masonic purposes, is a civil contract which can be enforced o n l y by the laws of the land: and any refusal or neglect t o pay such subscription does n o t subject the subscriber t o the disciplinary jurisdiction of any Lodge or association of M a s o n s . — K E N Y O N , G .•. M .•. 1890. S u s p e n s i o n . — S u s p e n s i o n for any offense is a l w a y s indefinite.—FULLER, G.-. M.-. 1893. E S e e t of S u s p e n s i o n . — A Lodge cannot rightfully conduct t h e funeral ceremony of a deceased Master Mason, who a t the t i m e of his death was under suspension, either for non-payment of dues or for unmasonlc conduct; the effect of such suspension Is to deprive him of all t h e rights and privileges t o which he was entitled prior to such suspension; nor can a M a s o n while under suspension sit i n a Lodge of Master Masons or u n i t e with t h e Craft in a M a sonic procession.—CLARK, G .•. M .•. 1895.
SEC. 2. Forfeiture of Warrant of Constitution.— Every Lodge which shall act with contumacy to the authority of the Grand Master, or of the Grand Lodge, or be willfully disobedient to the Constitution and Laws of the Grand Lodge, or depart from the original plan of Masonry, or neglect to meet in Stated Communication for one year, or to make annual returns and pay its obligations to the Grand Lodge for two years, or shall neglect to procure the Work through authorized Instructors and practice the same, shall be guilty of an offense against the Body of Masonry, and on due trial and being found guilty, shall forfeit its Warrant of Constitution; and it is expressly provided that every Lodge so found guilty shall forfeit and transfer its funds and property of every kind and character whatsoever to the Grand Lodge. Le^al P r o v i s i o n s . — B y - L a w s 154 et seQ. Contumacy.—"Willful disobedience of an edict of the Grand Master or of a law. regulation or order of the Grand Lodge. In such cases it is the d u t y of t h e Grand M a s t e r to arrest the Warrant and report the matter to the Grand Lodpe at Its n e x t Annual Communication.—Enci/c. Freemasonry—MACKET. P. 1S5.
GRAND OONSTITUTION.
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
39 ARTICLE VIII.
Innovation.—Any Innovation is a departure from the original plan. I t Is a cardinal principle of the Masonic fraternity, that no Innovation can be permitted In the fundamental principles upon which Masonry Is founded, nor long established and universal customs be changed.—BASSETT. Obliiiations.—Lodges are but subdivisions of a universal brotherhood; the general reputation and prosperity of the whole is therefore committed to each, and every Lodge Is consequently required to bear its share of the burdens. —BASBETT.
Authorized Work.—This Is a disobedience of an Imperative command of the Law (Const. Art. IV, Sec. 6). No subject has engaged the attention of the Grand Lodge to such an extent as this, and the most ample provision has been made for the preservation of the Ritual and its communication to the Lodges. I t is the settled policy of the Grand Lodge to enforce uniformity in the Ritual and manner of worlclng.—BASSETT, Forfeiture of Property.—As a Lodge owes Its existence and all Its rights and privileges to the Grand Lodge from which it derives Its Warrant, It la a principle of Masonic law that when a Lodge ceases to exist, all the property which it possessed at the time of its dissolution vests in the Grand Lodge. —Encyc. Freemasonry—MACKEY, p. 612. This rule of law has been hereinbefore distinctly stated.—Const. Art. VIJ. Sec. ^.
SEC. 3. Jurisdiction for Discipline.—Concurrent original jurisdiction for the discipline, trial and punishment of Masons charged with any offense against the Body of Masonry, limited only as hereinafter provided, is vested in: First, The.Lodge of which the accused is a member; Second, The Lodge within whose territory the offense may have been committed; and Third, The Lodge within whose territory the accused may be found: Provided, The Lodge first citing the accused to answer charges shall be held to have acquired exclusive jurisdiction. The Grand Lodge shall have exclusive original jurisdiction in all cases wherein any of its elective officers, or the Master of a Lodge, may be charged with any offense against the Body of Masonry, or when any Lodge may be subject to discipline, or in any controversy between two or more Lodges, and shall have appellate jurisdiction in all other cases. Leftal Provisions.—By-Laws 154 et seQ. K i n d s of Jurisdiction.—The jurisdiction here Is of three kinds: (1) Sovereign; (2) territorial; (3) personal. Sovereignty draws to Itself all who owe it allegiance; territorial jurisdiction exists under all forms of government, and personal results from the peculiar relations of this universal brotherhood. —BASSETT.
Exclusive Jurisdiction.—This Is in accord with general usage, and Is applicable to whatever a Lodge shall undertake.—Fifteen Articles, App. p. IS; ' Fundamental Lotos, App. p. 27; Charges of a Freemason, App. p. 79.
40 CONSTITUTION.
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS. A R T J C L E VIII.
J a r i s d i c t i o n Over Lodges.—The Grand Lodge being the supreme Judicial and executive authority, and possessing exclusive power to create Lodges, It Is a self-evident proposition that it alone has the right to discipline them or settle controversies between them.—BASSETT.
SEC. 4. Rules of Procedure and Ceremonies.—The Grand Lodge shall prescribe Rules of Procedure in matters of discipline, controversies between Lodges and Masonic trials and pimishments, which shall be applicable, as nearly as may be, to causes before a Lodge and to causes before the Grand Lodge; and shall also prescribe general forms for the proceedings. These rules and forms may be amended or repealed, and additional rules and forms prescribed at any Annual Communication, if the proposition therefor shall be sustained by two-thirds of the members present and voting. The . Grand Lodge shall also prescribe the rules and forms of conducting the private and public ceremonies of the Order, and these may be changed at any Annual Communication, if the proposition shall be sustained by a majority of all the members present and voting. Consorvatism.—Masonry Is conservative in regard to all those matters which may affect the rights and privileges of the Craft: hence any change In Important regulations should meet with general approval.—BASSETT. S h a v e r ' s Monitor.—For "Rules and Forms of Conducting the private and public ceremonies of the Order," see Shaver's Monitor, adopted by the Grand Lodge In 1893.—Proc. 189S, pp. 168. 198. Corner-Stoncs.—It Is unlawful for the Craft to lay the corner-stone of any building, or portion of a building not used exclusively for Masonic purposes, or for religious, educational, governmental, or charitable purposes. The corner-stone, therefore, must be laid.In that portion of the building to be used exclusively for these purposes.^COM. REV. 1929.
SEC. 5. By-Laws.—The Grand Lodge shall have the power to enact By-Laws in aid of the provisions of this Constitution for the proper government and regulation of Freemasonry, and shall also prescribe forms for the transaction of business. The By-Laws and forms may be amended or repealed, and additional By-Laws enacted, and additional forms prescribed at any Annual Communication, if the proposition therefor shall be sustained by two-thirds of all the members present and voting: Pro-
GRAND CONSTITUTION.
LODGE OF KANSAS.
41 ARTICLE VIII.
vided, Such changes shall take effect only from their publication with the Annual Proceedings: And provided further, That any Lodge may enact such By-Laws as may be necessary for the proper transaction of its business, and may amend and repeal the same, whenever the proposition therefor shall be agreed to by two-thirds of.all the members present and voting, at some Stated Communication subsequent to the time of its submission. Legal Provisions.—By-Laws 77, 78, 79, 10.5, 115, 110, 119, 138, 1,39. 140, 143, 145, 150, 151, 154, et seq. Report of C o m m i t t e e . — I f a committee embody in its report any statement or opinion not germane to the subject before it. and not in accord with the By-Laws, and such report be formally adopted, the mere adoption of the report will not change the by-law.—PRICE, G .-. M.-. 1872. Lodiie By-Laws.—The Grand Lodge has by this provision delegated to the Lodge certain speciflc authority to regulate its business, and has withheld from the Lodge any authority to regulate those matters which are common to all. A distinction is clearly drawn between the purposes for which the Grand Lodge and the Lodge may enact By-Laws. The former reserves the right to enact all laws for the proper government and regulation of Freemasonry, while to the latter is delegated the right to enact laws for the regulation of its business.—BASSETT.
Lodge By-Laws.—The provisions of Lodge By-Laws, requiring amendments thereto to be submitted to the Grand Lodge, are void.—St. Reg. 1875. Void By-La*f.-^A by-law depriving a brother of any Masonic right, such as the privilege of voting at an annual meeting while in arrears for dues, is null and void.—HILLYER, G .-. M -•. 1879. Trustee—-OfiBce—Dimit.—The office of Trustee, being one created by local Lodge By-Laws, does not prevent a brother from holding, at the same time, any other office created by our laws, or prevent him from dimittlHg during the term for which he was elected as Trustee, provided the law governing dimlssion is complied with.—COM. REV. 1929. U n i l o r m By-Laws for Lodges.—The Committee of Revision, 1898, has not attempted to Ignore the proceedings of the Grand Lodge had in 1886. 1887, 1888 and 1889, with reference to the adoption by the Grand Lodge of a uniform code of By-Laws to be used by the Lodges. Without commenting upon the legal questions Involved in that legislation, the committee believes that the attempt to compel uniformity by the Lodges in relation to By-Laws was unwise, and the fact that the code of By-Laws prepared has only been adopted by a few Lodges after the expiration of more than ten years is sufficient evidence that the effort has been a failure. The committee therefore presents herewith its opinion of the proper construction to be placed upon the last clause of the above section. In his work on Masonic Jurisprudence, MACKEY (p. 327) says: " A Lodge has the right to make By-Laws for its local government. This right must be considered as a concession or regrant by the Grand Lodge to subordinates of that which had been previously conveyed to It. Undoubtedly every congregation of Masons must originally have possessed an inherent right to make rules for their governihent: but on the organization of Grand Lodges, the supreme legislative jurisdiction of the Order was vested in these bodies." SIMONS (Masonic Juris, p. 78) says: " T h e constitutional powers of a Lodge, subject to control by the Grand Lodge, are: (1) To make a
42
CONSTITUTION.
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
ARTICLE VIII.
code of By-Laws for Its Internal government not In derogation of Its Inalienable rights or those of its members." By the enactment of the last proviso In Section 5, the Grand Lodge expressly delegated to Lodges the power to make By-Laws for their local government, and Inasmuch as the code of By-Laws attempted to be adopted by the Grand Lodge for the use of the Lodges contains many provisions relating to the local government of Lodges—relating to matters as to which the Lodge is by the provision of said section authorized to legislate, the committee Is of the opinion t h a t such By-Laws have not been adopted by the Grand Lodge because the Constitution may not be amended except as Is provided in Article VIII, Section 7, thereof. Attention Is also called to Section 28 of such so-called By-Laws, wherein It Is enacted that the "By-Laws are not subject to alteration or amendment by any authority except the Grand Lodge." whereas the section of the Constitution above referred to expressly authorizes the Lodge to amend and repeal the By-Laws which It has granted the power to enact. The committee, therefore, being of opinion that the Grand Lodge has not adopted, because it could not adopt, such code of By-Laws In the manner above referred to, has. In preparing its work, made no reference to any proceedings relating to such code of By-Laws or to the By-Laws themselves, except the reference thereto contained in this note, and has determined, for the reasons above given, to treat such code of By-Laws as though the same had never been adopted by the Grand Lodge.—COM. R E V . 1898. C o m m o n Law of Masonry.—-The comity of Grand Lodges requires each to recognize, and give full faith and credit to the acts of every other, provided the Ancient Constitutions are not Infringed, the General Regulations are not set aside, or the Old Landmarks removed. Therefore, every Grand Lodge should conform its local regulations to these rules, as well as to those other unwritten Customs, which are known and have been existing for so long a period among Masons that they have become the Common Law of Masonry. BAS8ETT.
N a t u r e of Masonic Law.—The laws of Masonry should be general in their character and universal in their application, then the individual or the Lodge, on a given state of facts, will have little dlEBculty in applying the law and arriving at a correct conclusion, for the reason for the rule construes the law, and there Is always sufflcient flexibility in general rules to meet the ever varying facts In the cases arising under them. In like manner an opinion should declare, with reasonable certainty, the general rule applicable to the case presented. Instead of being a decision of particular facts only.—BASBETT. Landmarks.—The universal character of Masonry requires a common government, or the recognition of a common law. which shall be in its application as universal as the Institution, and afford equal protection to the Individual Mason In whatsoever country he may sojourn. Such a common law exists In the established customs and usages, under the name of "Landmarks." which have been immemorially received and recognized and in part declared through the Ancient Constitutions, Charges and General Regulations. which. It is admitted, can never be changed.—BASSETT.
SEC. 6. Restrictions in Business and Charity—Masonic Home.—The Grand Lodge shall not engage in any business of any kind or character wfhatsoever, nor shall it be a party to, or shareholder in any partnership or corporation, nor shall it undertake the founding or support of any charitable or educational institution; nor
GRAND CONSTITUTION.
LODGE OF KANSAS.
43 ABTICLE VIII.
shall it ever render itself liable to pay any sum of money for any purpose, except for the necessary expenses attending the exercise of its proper functions as the governing head of Freemasonry within its jurisdiction;*^ nor shall it ever assume or exercise any supervision or censorship over any association, for whatsoever purpose organized: Provided, Nothing herein contained shall be construed to limit the Grand Lodge in its charities, by the payment of any sum of money out of its treasury for the support of the poor, for the relief of the distressed, or for any other purpose which shall tend to ameliorate the condition of the human family or any individual thereof: And be it further provided, That nothing hereinbefore contained shall be construed to limit or prevent this Grand Lodge from founding, organizing and maintaining a Masonic Home within the State of Kansas, for the relief and benefit of distressed and destitute Master Masons, their wives, widows and children. L e g a l P r o v i s i o n . — B y - L a w 76. A m e n d m e m t . — T h e laae provision of this section was added by a m e n d ment in 1893.—Proc. J892, p. 75; Proc. 1893, p. ZOO. M a s o n i c I l o i n e . — F o r legislation relating to assessments and funds raised for the Kansas Masonic H o m e , see report of the Committee o n Jurisprudence.—Proc. 189Ji, p. 37S.
SEC. 7. Amendments to Constitution.—This Constitution or any Article or Section thereof may be amended or repealed only in the following manner: Every such proposition shall be submitted in writing to the Grand Lodge at an Annual Communication; and if the proposition shall be sustained by two-thirds of all the members present and voting, it shall be engrossed, and within sixty days thereafter the Grand Secretary shall send printed copies thereof to the Master and Secretary of each Lodge for action thereon by the Lodges; and each Lodge shall within six months thereafter certify its proceedings to the Grand Secretary, who shall make a consolidated report thereof to the Grand Lodge at its next
44 CONSTITUTION.
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS. ARTICLE VIII.
Annual Communication, when, if it shall appear that twothirds of all the Lodges have agreed to the proposed amendment, it shall be so proclaimed by the Grand Master and become a part of this Constitution. A m e n d m e n t to C o n s t i t u t i o n . — T h e neglect or refusal of any Lodge to act on any amendment to the Constitution shall be deemed a Masonic offense, which shall subject the Lodge so offending to the penalty of suspenBlon. —St. Beg.'187B.
BY-LAWS RELATING TO THE GRAND LODGE.
1. Duties to God.—The duties of Masons toward GOD are to revere His Name, to exalt His Honor as the Great Architect of the Universe, and ever to allude to Him with that profound respect which is due from the creature to the Creator. Obedience t o Moral L,air.—See Charges of a Freemason, App. p. 72. B e q a i r e m e n t of F a i t h i n God.—Faith In the Great Author of all things impels the noble craftsmen to yield obedience to the laws of GOD, and bow submissively before His slirine; to feel a full responsibility, and act in strict accordance with the lessons of the square and compasses, and the rule and line.—Proc. 1858, p. +8, REEB, G :. M .-.
2. Duties to Country.—The duties of Masons to their country are to submit to the decisions of the law, to yield obedience to lawful authority, and to encourage and support its institutions for the moral and intellectual culture of its people. Peaceable Subject.—See Charges of a Freemason, App. p. 73. No Conflict of Duty.—Obedience to the government Is, and ever has been, the duty of Masons, and it should be our pleasure, as it undoubtedly is our interest, to comply with the injunctions of this cardinal principle. I t Is a signal proof of the eternal appositeness of Masonic principles, that under the most despotic, as well as under the most liberal form of government, this obedience to civil power is alike obligatory. Happily, the duties which we owe to our Order, and those due t o our country, can never conflict, and no merely political conduct can aflect the standing of a Mason, or alter our relations of Fraternity, and Brotherhood towards him.—Proc. lS6t, p. i6S. SAQUI, O.: M.-.
3. Duties to Neighbors.—The duties of Masons to their neighbors are to deal honorably with all men, to suffer none to be injured in character or property, and to be charitable in the times of their destitution, and humane in the times of their extremity. Neighborhood Condnct.—See Charges of a Freemason, App. p. 71.
46
GBANV
BY-LAWS.
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
R E L A T I N G TO T H E GRAND LODGE.
C h o r i t r a n d G o o d W i l l . — W h e r e v e r man encamps, thither Masonry goes, and there la no land It has n o t reached, n o language wherein Its phrases are n o t found, and n o people t h a t have n o t felt i t s genial Infiuence. With traditions as old as man, and a literature older t h a n modern tongues, it stands, as It h a s ever stood, the patron of morals, the stern friend of justice, the promoter of peace and the guardian of order, ever Inculcating charity and good win towards men, and urging t h e m to i n v o k e t h e aid and blessing of G O D ID every undertaking.—Proc. 1887, p. IBS, A D A M S , G .-. M .•.
4. Duties to Self.—The duties of Masons to themselves are to avoid all irregularities which tend to impair their faculties or debase their manhood, to labor diligently and to live creditably. A t R e f r e s h m e n t . — S e e Charges of a Freemason, App. p. 82. V i c t o r y O v e r S e l l . — A prize is before us; w h o will win? Ho who conquers self—he w h o Is co-worker w i t h t h e Grand Architect, and seeks, by virtue of his personed purity and worth, t o overcome all t h e obstacles by which he is surrounded. H e can win who has won himself. T h e w a y Is open—choose which side y o u will take. L e t m e exhort y o u to t a k e t o t h e right, and victory will be yours.—Proc. 1869, p. ilO, B R O W N , G .-. M .-.
5. Duties to Brothers.—The duties of Masons to their Brothers are to avoid all piques and quarrels, to defend them so far as honor and truth will warrant, to give them good counsel, to sustain them when falling, to keep their secrets, to invoke their protection and to aid them. B s n o r t o W h o m H o n o r . — S e e Charges of a Freemason, App. p. 83.
6. Duties to Strangers.—The duties of Masons to strangers are to be courteous in behavior, discreet in speech, and to divert any discourse with them on the subject of Masonry, or manage it for the honor of the Fraternity. A n t s of t h e P r o l a n s . — A Lodge should n o t pass resolutions censuring the acts of any Individual or organization, or t a k e a n y Masonic notice of the acts of the p r o f a n e . — M C O A L L , G . ' . M .-. 1896. C a u t i o n s I n Words a n d C a r r i a g e . — S e e Charges of a Freemason, App. p. 8 4 S t r a n i t e r D e f i n e d . — W h a t e v e r Is mysterious, engages t h e attention of those who are strangers to t h e mystery, a n d Masonry, during the whole period of Its existence, has received its due share of this attention; hence, prudence has dictated these rules of caution. T h e t e r m "stranger " is sometimes applied »o a brother before he has proved himself b y t h e methods known to the Craft, but it is a more appropriate designation of o n e who h a s never entered t h e portals of a Lodge.—BABSBTT.
GRAND BY-LAWS.
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
47
R E L A T I N G TO T H E GRAND LODGE.
7. Duties to Grand Lodge.—The duties of the Members to the Grand Lodge are to obey its Constitution, By-Laws and all its Regulations, in spirit as well as in letter, to uphold all its lawful interests, and to extend the honor of its name throughout the Masonic world. Aa Sentinels.—You stand here as sentinels upon the ramparts of this Grand Jurisdiction, to protect this division of our Brotherhood from|.the schemes of designing and ambitious men. to guard it against violations of ancient laws and infractions of specific obligations, and to maintain its principles until its sublime ideal, now mysteriously hidden in its symbols, shall appear in all its splendor to an enlightened and an admiring world, and Insure the universal reign of Free and Accepted Masonry.—Proc. 187+, pp. SS, i8, BABBBTT, G . - . M . % 3
8. Duties to Body of Masonry.—The duties of the Members to the Body of Mafeonry are to maintain the customs of Masonry unimpaired, and so transmit them to their successors, and to see that none of the Ancient Constitutions, Regulations and Landmarks is infringed, set aside or removed. Danfter of Inmoration.—Wherever the Invading floods of innovation are allowed to encroach ever so little, wave after wave will surely follow, the breach will be widened, and finally, every barrier will be swept away unlesa energetic steps be talcen to check inundation. Bold, radical attempts at corruptions find little favor, until by Insidious approaches and many trifling defections, our minds are prepared to brook more open encroachments.—PBLOT, Grand Orator. 1859.^
9. Annual Communications.—The Annual Communications shall be held at such hour on the third Wednesday of February in each year as the Grand Master may appoint, and at such place as may be designated at the preceding Annual Communication, or as the Grand Master may order, and no member reported present at any Annual Communication, shall absent himself from any session without leave from the Grand Master or Grand Lodge. Constitntional Provialons.—Art. I, Sec. 3; Art. I l l , Sec. 3. Power of Grand Master.—By the last clause of this By-Law the Grand Master may change the place designated for holding the Annual Communication. In 1874, the Grand Master convened the Grand Lodge at a different place from the one designated at the preceding Annual Oommunlcatlon.— BASSETT.
48
GRAND
BY-LAWS,
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
RELATING TO THE GRAND LODGE.
10. Special Communications.—Special Communications shall be held at such time and place as the Grand Master, or the Masters requesting them may designate, and the business set out in the order convening them, but no other, may be transacted. G o n a t i t n t l o n a l ProrUIons.—-Art. I, Sec. 3 ; Art. I l l , Sec. 2, O b i e c t o l S p e c i a l C o m m i i n l c a t l o n s . — S p e c i a l Communications of the Grand Lodge are usually held: (1) A t t h e request of one or more Lodges, for s o m e public ceremony; (2) at t h e request of s e v e n or more Masters of Lodges, for some special purpose b y t h e m designated; (3) a t the instance of t h e Grand Master, for s o m e emergent business requiring immediate and general attention. W h e n t h e Grand Lodge Is convened, a t t h e request of seven or more Masters—seven, or a quorum, are required t o transact business—or a t the instance of t h e Grand Master, notice should be given to all of t h e Lodges, for while such Special C o m m u n i c a t i o n s are held for some specific purpose, t h e y are called t o act only on matters of general Interest.—BABSETT. S p e c i a l C o m m a n i c a t i o n of 1 8 6 4 . — I n 1864, by reason of an armed Invasion of t h e State, a Special Communication of t h e Grand Lodge was held a b o u t t w o m o n t h s later t h a n t h e t i m e fixed b y t h e B y - L a w s for t h e Annual Communication. At that Communication t h e regular business of t h e Grand Lodge was transacted, a n d the legality of t h e proceedings has never been questioned. I t Is not believed, however, t h a t a t a Special Communication t h e Grand L o d g e has the power t o transact a n y business not fairly " s e t out In t h e order convening I t , " as Is provided In t h e last clause of this By-Law. —COM. BKV.
1898.
SEC. 11. Special Communications—Ceremonies.— Special Communications may be held at such time and place as the Grand Master may direct, for the purpose of performing some Masonic ceremony, and when so held, shall be opened in the name of the Grand Lodge. In the absence of the Grand Master he may commission some Present or Past Master to act. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n s . - ^ A r t . I, Sec. 3 ; Art. I l l , Sec. 2. Q n o r a m — H o w O p e n e d . — U n d e r this B y - L a w It Is not necessary t h a t seven or more Lodges be represented b y their Masters, so long as there Is In attendance at least a legal quorum. If t h e ceremony Is conducted by t h e Grand Master, or a P a s t Grand Master, t h e Grand Lodge Is declared opened In "Ample F o r m ". If conducted by a n y other officer or past oflBcer entitled to be addressed as R i g h t Worshipful it shall be declared opened In " D u e F o r m " , and If by any other temporarily presiding officer It Is o p e n e d In " F o r m " . — C O M . K B V . 1929.
12. Call to Labor.—The hour for commencing labor having arrived, the rnembers shall congregate in the Lodge room at the first stroke of the Grand Master's
GRAND BY-LAWS.
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
49
R E L A T I N G TO T H E GRAND LODGE.
gavei, and at the second stroke they shall be seated and thenceforth remain in order and maintain silence. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . VIII, Sec. 5.
13. Clothing;—^The members shall be clothed as Master Masons, and the officers shall bear the jewels which, by established custom, are appropriate to their stations. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . V I I I , SeC. 5.
14. Grand Master's Apron.—The Apron worn by the Grand Master shall be retained by him on retiring from office. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . VIII, Sec. 5.
15. Calls from Refreshment.—^The calls from labor to refreshment and from refreshment to labor shall be at such hour as the Grand Master may direct. 16. Great Seal.—The Great Seal shall be of brass, circular in form, not more than two inches in diameter, bearing the device of a white man holding in his left hand a book, and with his right presenting a square and compasses to an Indian, who is receiving the implements with his left hand, and holding in his right a bow and arrows, the whole surmounted with the scroll, "Misteria non Scripta," and surrounded by the words, "Seal of the Grand Lodge of Kansas." I t shall remain as i t is now designed, and shall be impressed upon all orders, summonses, commissions. Letters of Dispensation, and Warrants of Constitution. It shall be used to authenticate official documents, issued by the Grand Master in accordance with the Constitution and By-Laws of the Grand Lodge, and when so used such writings shall be attested by the Grand Secretary. Acts of the Grand Master, performed in the exercise of his prerogatives, and his ordinary correspondence with Lodges and brethren require no other authentication than his signature.
50 BY-LAWS.
GRAND
LODQE
OF
KANSAS.
R E L A T I N G TO T H E G R A N D L O D G E .
History a n d Tradition.—This design was adopted at the time of the organization of the Grand Lodge and has not since been changed. The designer was M.".W.'. R. R. R E E S . I t was a favorite theory of our Past Grand Master that Masonry was known and practiced by the American Indians, to whom it had been transmitted through all successive generations from NOAH: hence the design—a descendant of SHE.M and a descendant of JAPHETH linked by the mystic square and compasses.—BASSETT.
17. Working Tools.—^The Grand Lodge shall be provided with the Working Tools and the Implements of Masonry required for the proper execution of Masonic work and of the ceremonies of the Order. Srn:>l>oIs.—Certain implements of Operative Masonry are consecrated to the Speculative Science, and adopted as symbols to teach lessons of morality; with these the Speculative Mason is taught to erect his spiritual temple, as his Operative predecessors, with the same implements, constructed their material temple. These are the twenty-four inch gauge, common gavel, square, level, plumb, compasses and trowel.—Encyc. Freemasonry—MACKEY, 890.
18. Obedience to Grand Master.—^The members shall be obedient to the Grand Master, and when desiring to speak they shall arise and first address the Grand Master by his title; if he fail to recognize them, or first recognize another, they shall patiently resume their seats. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provisions.—Art. I l l , Sees. 1, 2. Necessary Rules.—Rules of order are necessary to all organized bodlei to enable them to conduct their proceedings in a regular manner. Obedience is the first rule and is the foundation on which all others rest. " I t is much more material that there should be a rule to go by, than what that rale Is." —HATSELL. Parliamentary rules are useful as guides to the orderly conduct of business, but cannot control the will and pleasure of the Master.—Matonic Law—LOCKWOOD, 5 3 .
19. Discussion.—The discussions shall be conducted with propriety, and without any interruption of one by another while speaking, except to rise and state a point of order. A point of order, when stated, shall be decided by the Grand Master without discussion, and his decision shall be final. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Prorision.—Art. I l l , Sec. 2. Behavior i n Lodfte.—See Charges of a Freemason, p. 80. No Appeal.—It is the law that while he is presiding there can be no appeal from the decision of the Grand Master to the Grand Lodge—a law which, though generally observed, has its exceptions.—Masonic Juris.—SIMONS, 2.57. I t is held to be the settled law of Masonry, at this time, that an appeal cannot be taken from the decision of the Grand Master to the Grand Lodge. It is,
GRAND BY-LAWS.
LODGE OF KANSAS.
51
RELATING TO T H E GRAND LODGE.
in a great measure, to this power beyond appeal, to the responsibility which it entails, and to the great caution which it necessarily begets, that we must attribute much of the harmony and stability which have always characterized the Order.—Masonic Juris.—MACKEY, 460-7. The rule here stated admits of no exceptions.—BASSETT.
20. Discussion.—The Grand Master may terminate any discussion, when, in his opinion, its continuance will not tend to any beneficial results to Masonry; and when he rises all debate shall cease. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—Art. I l l , Sec. 2. I m p a r t i a l Arbiter.—The Grand Master sits as an impartial arbiter between the parties contending in debate, and determines in the exercise of a sound discretion, when the main question shall be put. When the Grand Master deems it proper to terminate any discussion, he should rise—whoever at the time "has the floor" must be seated—and, until the Grand Master re•umes his seat, no one may address him, to make any motion, nor for any other purpose, except in response to some inquiry by the presiding ofBcer. Every proposition should stand upon its merits, and not be sustained or defeated by the tactics of skillful parliamentarians.—BASSETT.
21. Parliamentary Rules.—General Parlia,mentary Rules shall be observed but not strictly construed; nor ehall they authorize the calling of the previous question; however, they may be suspended by the Grand Master in their application to any question under discussion. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—Art. I l l , Sec. 2. Not Applicable.—Where well-settled parliamentary rules can bo properly applied to the action of Masonic Bodies, they should always govern; but they should never be introduced where they, in any way, interfere with the established customs or Landmarks of Masonry, or with the high prerogatives of the Master.—FRENCH, P .'.G .'.M .'., in American Quarlerly Review of Freemasonry, I, SS5.
22. Grand Orator.—The Grand Master may appoint a Grand Orator, who shall be a Master Mason of-reputation and of ability for the particular service required, and, at the Communication for which he is appointed, he shall deliver an address appropriate to the occasion. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i ^ o n s . — A r t . I I , Sec. 3 ; Art. I l l , SeC. 2.
23. Annual Reports.—^The elective officers shall make Annual Reports of their official acts of general interest to the Craft, and upon such matters as may be referred
52
GRAND
LODGE
BY-LAWS.
OF
KANSAS.
RELATING TO THE GRAND
LODGE.
to them, or may come under their observation and be within the scope of their respective duties. Conslitutional Provision.
Art. I l l , Sec. 3.
24. Printing and Distribution.—The Grand Secretary shall cause the annual address of the Grand Master, reports of the Grand Treasurer, Grand Secretary, Council of Administration and Secretary of The Kansas Masonic Home Board to be printed several days before the Annual Communication, and shall furnish one copy to the chairmen of the committees on Reports of Grand Officers, Finance, Jurisprudence, Trials and Punishments, Chartered Lodges and Lodges U.'. D.'., and General Purposes, to give them time for the preparation of their reports. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—Art. I l l , Sec. 6. Facilities for Investigation.—It is desirable that committees should be afforded ample facilities for an investigation of the matters which may be laid before them, to the end that the Grand Lodge may be well advised in relation thereto, for under its plan of organization, and the brief term of its Annual Communications, the Grand Lodge cannot intelUgently transact its business, except through its committees, from which it must receive the necessary Information to guide ii in its deliberations.—BASSETT.
25. Address of Grand Master.—The Grand Master shall include in his annual address a digest of his opinions given upon the construction and application of Masonic law, and a review of the condition of Masonry, with such recommendations as he may deem for the best interests of the Craft. Approved Decisions.—In 1886 the Grand Lodge adopted the following: "Yoiu" committee recommend that the decisions (opinions) when published shall appear only in the form approved by the Grand Lodge, and that disapproved decisions be not published except in the report of the Committee on Jurisprudence."—Froc. 1886, p. 64. Modified opinions should be published only as modified, except in the report of the committee.—BASSETT.
26. Report of Grand Treasurer.—The Grand Treasurer shall include in his annual report a statement showing his receipts and expenditures during the year on account of the general and charity funds, and a statement showing the investment of the surplus, giving the character of the securities, the rate of interest, and time
GRAND BY-LAWS.
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
53
RELATING TO T H E GRAND LODGE.
of maturity. His report, books, vouchers and securities shall be referred to the Committee on Finance for examination and report thereon. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . I l l , SeC. 5. Secret Alms.—In the report of disbursements on account of charity, the names of individual recipients should not be given. " B u t when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth; That thine alms may be in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly." Such items should be entered "Grand Master's order," and such explanatory evidence should be furnished as the committee may require. —BASSETT.
27. Report of Grand Secretary.—The Grand Secretary shall include in his annual report an estimate of the revenue for the ensuing year, giving the various sources from which it may be derived and an estimate of the current expenses for such year, giving in detail the purposes for which provision should be made. C o n s t i t n t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . I l l , SeC. 6. Careful Estimates.—These estimates should be made with care. No other person or committee has equal facilities for making them. His familiarity with the business of the Grand Lodge, and practical experience in such matters, make this an appropriate duty of the Grand Secretary.—BASSETT.
28. Report of Council of Administration.—The Council of Administration shall make an annual report of its official acts, particularly specifying transactions relating to the funds and property of the Grand Lodge, and of all such matters as may come within the scope of its duties, or may be referred to it for advice or action. They shall have supervision over and give special attention to the Grand Lodge Library and Museum, having in mind the almost priceless collection of books, magazines, periodicals and other • material composing our Library, and the Jewels, relics, old documents and other property composing our Museum, some of which have been placed in charge of the Grand Lodge for safe-keeping. They shall also employ such help as may be necessary to properly catalog, index and carry forward the work in the Library and Museum, and shall adopt such rules as are necessary in the circulation of the reading matter, prohibiting the
54 BY-LAWS.
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
RELATING TO T H E GKAND LODGE.
taking out of the Library any of the rare books and documents, as well as any portion of the McFarland Library. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . I l l , SeC. 4. F u r t h e r P r o v i x i o n s . — B y - L a w s 47, 50, 51. New Feature.—This is a new feature in Grand Lodge government in Kansas: no provision of a lil^e character existed prior to 1885, the time the present Constitution was adopted.—BASSETT. M c F a r l a n d Library.— In the bequest of Mr. McF-iRLAND it is provided thai none of the boolfs composing his library are to bo taken out of the Grand Lodge Library.—COM. REV. 1939.
29. Standing Committees.—The Standing Committees shall be composed of Present or Past Masters and shall make reports from time to time upon all matters referred to them, including questions submitted for their opinions by any officer or member of the Grand Lodge, and upon matters referred to them during the recess of the Grand Lodge by any elective Grand Officer, advisory as to his official duties. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—Art. IV, Sec. 5. C h a n g e of By-Laws.—If a committee embody in their report any statement or opinion not germane to the subject before them, and not in accord with the By-Laws, and such report is formally adopted, the mere adoption of the report does not change the By-Laws.—PRICE, G.'. M .-. 1872.
30. Standing Committees—Printed Reports.—The Grand Secretary shall send to the chairmen of standing committees, for their consideration, all matters upon which they may be required to report, for the purpose of affording them ample time for due consideration, and for the correction of errors, whenever practicable, before reporting. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n s . — A r t . I l l , Sec. 6; Art. IV, See. 5. Object.—This enables the chairman to frame the report before the meeting of the Grand Lodge, when it should be submitted to the whole committee for review and revision. Considerable time is required to examine the voluminous papers submitted to the Committees on Chartered Lodges and Lodges U .'. D .•. and on .Jurisprudence.—BASSETT.
31. Committee on Credentials.—The Committee on Credentials shall report the members present as follows: (1) Present Grand Officers; (2) Subordinate Grand Offi-
GRAND BY-LAWS.
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
55
RELATING TO T H E GBAND LODGE.
cers; (3) Past Elective Grand Officers; (4) District Deputy Grand Masters; (5) Grand Representatives; (6) Past Masters; (7) Masters and "Wardens, or their proxies, who .shall be one of the three principal officers. The name of a member shall not be included more than once in the report, except as a District Deputy Grand Master or Grand Representative. Conitltutional Provisions.—Art. I, Sec. 4; Art. IV, Sec. 5. Parm ol Report.—Form is essential to good order, and an orderly report 1« creditable to the committee making it. I n this report the Grand Officers should be shown in the order of rank; the Past Grand Officers in the order of seniority, and the Past Masters in the numerical order of the Lodges to which »hey belong.—BASSETT.
32. Committee on Reports of Grand Officers.—The Committee on Reports of Grand Officers shall review the address of the Grand Master and the reports of the other Grand Officers, making such comments as they may deem for the best interests of the Craft, and distribute all the various subjects embraced in such address and reports to the appropriate standing committees for their consideration. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . I V , Sec. 5.
33. Committee on Finance.—The Committee on Finance shall examine the investments and audit the accounts of the Grand Lodge, examine the books and vouchers of the Grand Treasurer and the financial records of the Grand Secretary, comparing them with the original reports of Lodges and other sources from which funds are received, and shall report to Grand Lodge as to whether the records of these officers are kept in a business-like manner and posted up to date. They shall audit the expense bills submitted by those entitled to expenses in attending the Annual Communications, issuing checks to them, and they and none other shall deliver checks to the representatives of Lodges and others entitled to mileage, which checks shall be drawn on the Grand Treasurer, signed by the Grand Secretary and approved
56 BY-LAWS.
GRAND
LOCGE
OF
KANSAS.
RELATING TO T H E GRAND LODGE.
by the Grand Master, and recommend such appropriations from the general fund as may be necessary to meet the current expenses for the ensuing year, and for the purchase of books and necessary equipment for the Library, and for the binding of books and pamphlets, as they may deem expedient. They shall consider carefully all proposed special appropriations, assessments vr extraordinary expenditures, having in mind the financial condition of the Grand Lodge, our Masonic Home, and the welfare of the Craft in this jurisdiction, making such recommendations as they may deem best. • C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . IV, Sec. 5. O t h e r Provisions.—By-Laws 26, 27. D u t y of C h a i r m a n . — I t is the duty of the chairman of this committee ,to examine the books and flnancial returns from Lodges in the office of the Grand Secretary before each session of the Grand Lodge.— COM. RKV. 1898.
34. Committee on Jurisprudence.—The Committee on Jurisprudence shall advise the Grand Officers, Grand Lodge and committees upon all questions of Masonic law, considering and reporting upon all propositions for the amendment of the Constitution and By-Laws, and upon all Decisions and proposed Standing or other Regulations. It shall critically examine each transcript sent up on appeal and shall find: (1) Whether the charge states an offense; (2) whether the specifications sustain the charge; (3) whether the Lodge had jurisdiction. If it find affirmatively on each of the foregoing propositions, it shall carefully examine the record to ascertain whether it shows that evidence was given at the trial which, if believed to be true, would sustain the findings and judgment of the Committee on Trials and Punishments; and if such fact does not appear, it shall recommend a reversal of the case. It shall not recommend a reversal unless it be apparent that the evidence adduced in support of the charge was wholly inadequate to convince an unprejudiced mind of the guilt of the accused beyond a reasonable doubt. In
GRAND BY-LAWS.
LODGE OF KANSAS.
57
RELATING TO THE GRAND LODGE.
the matter of punishments, the committee shall temper justice with mercy in all cases. C o n s t i t u t i o x i o l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . IV, See. 5. F u r t h e r P r o v i s i o n s . — B y - L a w s S5, 17.3, 177.
Scope of I t s Duties.—There is hardly a conceivable question with which this committee may not be required to deal. It is required to give opinion! on the legislative, judicial and e-tecutive funcvions of the Grand Lodge and of the Lodges; on the prerogatives, powers and duties of the officers and members of these organized bodies, and on the history, tradioions and symbolism of Freemasonry.—BASSETT.
35. Committee on Trials and Punishments.—The Committee on Trials and Punishments shall have general supervision over, and conduct all trials after the Lodge shall have entertained the Charges and Specifications, and the accusation has been transmitted to the chairman of the committee by' the Grand Secretary under direction of the Grand Master. All testimony may be taken by the entire committee or by the chairman or any member designated by him. This committee shall submit a report to Grand Lodge at each Annual Communication, making such recommendations as may be deemed necessary or expedient. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . IV, Sec. 3. F u r t h e r P r o v i s i o n s . — B y - L a w s 34, 173.
36. Committee on Chartered Lodges and Lodges Under Dispensation.—The Committee on Chartered Lodges and Lodges Under Dispensation shall carefully examine such annual reports of Lodges as may be referred to it by the Grand Secretary, noting the errors, and make such recommendations regarding such errors as may be necessary or expedient. It shall also examine and report upon any matters relating to Chartered Lodges which may be referred to it by the Grand Master, Grand Secretary, or Grand Lodge. It shall examine the reports and transcripts from all Lodges which have been working under Letters of Dispensation, noting particularly the nature and progress
58
GRAND
BY-LAWS.
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
KELATING TO T H E GRAND
LODGE.
of the work, and shall report upon applications for Warrants of Constitution for new Lodges, and for the restoration of Warrants which have been surrendered or arrested. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n s . — A r t . IV, Sec. 5; Art. V, Sees. 4, 5. M i n u t e s . — T h e minutes of a Lodge TJ.-. D .-. are but prima facie evidence of what t h e y purport to show, and the c o m m i t t e e m a y ascertain the facts from « n y other s o u r c e . — B A S S E T T . D u t y of C h a i r m a n . — I n view of the time required to properly check the annual reports from the Lodges, and verify t h e notations made by the Grand Secretary concerning errors, it is absolutely necessary t h a t the chairman of this c o m m i t t e e visit the ofHce of the Grand Secretary and prepare his report as far as possible before each Communication of the Grand L o d g e . — C O M . B B V . 1929.
37. Committee on General Purposes.—The Committee on General Purposes shall review and report on all subjects referred to it which do not specifically come within the province of any other committee. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . IV, Sec. 5. JLe^al P r o v i s i o n s . — B y - L a w s 29, 36, 3 8 - 4 0 .
38. Committee on Investigation of Records and Property.—The Committee on Investigation of Records and Property shall annually, or oftener if required by the Grand Master, examine the records and files in the office of the Grand Secretary, ascertain if they are complete and posted up to date, and make a detailed report concerning the condition of each, either to the Grand Master or the Grand Lodge, as the case may be, and recommend any necessary changes in the system of keeping the records, accounts, or the handling of the finances, giving special attention to (1) historical registry of membership, seeing that all data has been entered from the last Annual Reports and that all corrections have been made; (2) abstract of Lodge returns; (3) card index to Grand Lodge Proceedings; (4) filing of the transcripts of Lodges; (5) filing of the transcripts of trials; (6) filing of annual reports; (7) filing of charters; (8) filing of historical data and pictures sent in by Lodges; (9) indexing of negatives of photographed charters; (10) whether the Books of Annual
GRAND BY-LAWS.
LODGE OF KANSAS.
59
RELATING TO T H E GRAND LODGJE.
Returns for the last five year period were properly checked and returned to the Lodges; (11) the answering of correspondence and filing of same; (12) the filing of the annual Proceedings of all other Grand Jurisdictions; (13) the filing of all books, periodicals, magazines, pamphlets and publications for the Library, ascertaining that all articles and data intended for the Museum have been properly inscribed and placed either on file or in the display cases provided therefor; and (14) inspect and report on the condition of all other records and whether the legislation of the Grand Lodge at tHe last Annual Communication has been complied with. They shall carefully examine the Grand Lodge Building and the personal property contained therein, reporting as to the condition of both and recommend any needed improvements, repairs and replacements. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—Art. IV, Sec. 5.
39. Committee on Correspondence.—The Committee on Correspondence shall review and report upon Proceedings of other Grand Lodges, gleaning therefrom such matters as may be of general interest to the Craft, and noticing all matters relating to the usages, privileges and work of such other Grand Lodges as may appear at variance with the common law of Masonry; also the membership and number of Lodges in each jurisdiction. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—Art. IV, Sec. 5.
40. Committee on Necrology.—^The Committee on Necrology shall review the memorials issued by this and other Grand Jurisdictions, making due report of the same, together with appropriate reference and tribute to the memory of those of our own brethren who have passed away during the past year. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—Art. IV^, Sec. 5. Object of Committee.—These committees are the links which bind the Grand Lodges into one united whole in the pursuit of linowledge: they are the guardians appointed by their respective bodies to inform their constituents what has been the progress of the Institution for the past year.—Afasonic Juris.—MACKEY,
493.
60 BY-LAWS.
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
RELATING TO T H E GRAND
LODGE.
41. Grand Representatives.—The Grand Master may appoint a Grand Representative to reside near each Grand Lodge in correspondence with this Grand Lodge, who shall have the rank of Past Grand Junior Warden of this Grand Lodge, and shall hold his office subject to the will and pleasure of the Grand Master, and report annually upon the condition of Masonry in the Grand Jurisdiction to which he is accredited. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—Art. I I I . Sec. 2. Purpose.—This custom has gained such favor that there are now few Grand Lodges which liave not adopted it. The original purpose was to have annual reports from each representative, theretjy bringing tiie Grand Bodies, mutually represented, into a closer union.—-BASSETT. .
42. Lecturers.—The Grand Master shall appoint such Lecturers as may be necessary to meet the requirements of the Lodges, the district meetings and brethren. seeking Letters of Dispensation. The Lecturers require no other rank than that of Master Mason. They shall perform such duties as the Grand Master may order, making report thereon when required so to do by him. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provisions.—Art. I l l , Sec. 2; Art. IV, Sec. 6. Lecturer.—The Lecturer is the recognized teacher of Masonry, and it is by his faithful instructions alone that unity can be maintained in the methods of communicating our Ritual.—Masonic Juris.—MACKEY, 480.
43. Lodge Instruction.—^The Grand Master shall send a competent Lecturer to any Lodge applying to him for instruction, to all district meetings, and to instruct brethren seeking Letters of Dispensation. He shall send such Lecturer to any Lodge which he may determine requires instruction, and as directed by the Grand Master s.uch Lecturer may hold a school of instruction for officers of the Lodges at such times and places as may be convenient for the several Lodges supporting such schools. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—Art. IV, See. 6. Accuracy.—The present idea, of a Lecturer seems to be, that he shall have the quality of being able to recite the words of the ritual with undeviating accuracy as often as may be required, which point being reached, nothing further is looked for by the Craft, and rarely, if ever, offered by tlie Lecturer. —Masonic Juris.— SIMONS, 279.
GRAND BY-LAWS.
LODGE OF KANSAS.
61
RELATING TO T H E GRAND LODGE.
44. Other Officers.—-The following sub-officers are authorized, who shall perform such duties as may be required by the officers appointing them, and shall serve during the pleasure of such appointing officer: Private Secretary and Assistant Grand Tyler, to be appointed by the Grand Master; Assistant Grand Secretary, and an official stenographer for the Annual Communication, to be appointed by the Grand Secretary. Constitutional Provisions.—Art. II, Sec. 3; Art. Ill, Sees. 2, 6.
45. Duties of the Grand Treasurer.—The Grand Treasurer shall perform the duties which devolve upon him by usage or are required by law, having in charge all funds of the Grand Lodge, rendering a formal receipt to the Grand Secretary for all moneys received, accounting for the same annually and at such times as the Grand Master or Grand Lodge may order, and give such bond as the Council of Administration may require. All funds of the Grand Lodge shall be deposited and kept by him in the name of the Grand Lodge and shall be paid out only on the standard form of warrant authorized by the Grand Lodge, and after it shall have been signed by the Grand Secretary and countersigned by the Grand Master. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — Art. I l l , See. 5.
46. Grand Lodge Funds.—The Grand Treasurer shall keep three accounts, one to be known as "The Kansas Masonic Home Fund," one as the "General Fund," and one as the "Charity Fund." Fifty cents of the annual per capita tax shall be placed in and constitute "The Kansas Masonic Home Fund," and shall be turned over to the Secretary of The Kansas Masonic Home. Ninety per cent, of all remaining revenue shall be placed in and constitute " T h e General Fund," and the residue of said remaining revenue shall constitute "The Charity Fund." The Charity Fund shall remain inviolate, except for the relief of destitute Master Masons in good standing, their
62
GRAND
BY-LAWS.
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
RELATING TO T H E GRAND LODGE.
widows and orphans, residing or being in this Grand Jurisdiction. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—Art. I l l , Sec. 5. Tithing.—One-tenth of the income is set apart for charity. This is according to ancient custom. .JACOB vowed of his own free will to pay tithes, "And of all thou shalt give me I will surely give the tentli unto thee." (Gen, xiviii. 22.) And the ancient law-giver commanded, more than thirty-three centuries ago, " W h e n ihou hast made an end of tithing * * * and hast given unto the Levite, the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow, * * t then thou shalt say * * * I have given unto the Levite, and unto the stranger, the fatherless, and to t h e widow, according to all thy commandments." (Deut. xxvi. 12, 13.)—BASSETT.
47. Charity Fund.—The Grand Treasurer shall not make any payment out of the Charity Fund, except on the Grand Master's order, and the Grand Master shall not draw any order for any sum exceeding fifty dollars in any one case, without the approval of the Council of Administration, and the Council of Administration may transfer not exceeding fifty per cent, of any balance in the General Fund to the Charity Fund, if emergency requires it. Whatever portion of the Charity Fund as may be necessary for relief in this Grand Jurisdiction, but not to exceed the amount set aside for that purpose the preceding year, shall be disbursed through the Masonic Home Board. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n s . — A r t . I l l , Sees. 2, 5.
P r a c t i c e Masonry.—The Grand Lodge has had abundant opportunity to practice Masonry—the Masonry which teaches its votaries to carry into daily life and practice the tenets of their profession, and bids them wait not for invitations to visit the sick, to relieve the distressed, and minister to the suffering—the Masonry which teaches universal benevolence and inspires in all who come within its influence a veneration for t h a t undefined and incomprehensible power whence springs man's love for man, and which, by such manifestations of fraternal care, mingling the cardinal virtues and Christian graces, weaves the silken threads of affection around the hearts of men, binding them to each other.—BASSETT.
48. General Fund.—The Grand Treasurer shall not make any payment out of the General Fund except on the order of the Grand Master, countersigned by the Grand Secretary, and no order shall be drawn or paid
GRAND BY-LAWS.
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
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R E L A T I N G TO T H E G R A N D L O D G E .
which exceeds the total amount appropriated for the purpose for which it is drawn, unless approved by the Council of Administration. Constitutional Provisions.—Art. I l l , Sees. 2, 5, 6.
49. Duties of the Grand Secretary.—^The Grand Secretary shall perform the duties which devolve upon him by usage, or are. required by law, collecting all moneys due the Grand Lodge, rendering a formal receipt therefor, and endorsing to the order of the Grand Treasurer all evidences ,of payment, which shall be immediately transmitted to the Grand Treasurer, who shall receipt for the same. He shall render an account thereof annually and at such other times as the Grand Master may order, and shall record the Proceedings of the Grand Lodge, conduct its correspondence, issue its orders, and have the custody of its books, papers, records and seal. Constitutional Provision.-—-Art. I l l , See. 6.
50. Official Bonds.—The Grand Treasurer and Grand Secretary shall execute bonds in such sums and with such securities, and upon such conditions, as the Council of Administration may prescribe. Constitutional Provisions.—Art. Ill, Sees. 5, G.
51. Investment of Funds.—^The Council of Administration shall invest, from time to time, the surplus of the General and Charity Funds in approved securities, estimating such surplus upon the receipts and expenditures of the preceding year, and making all investments in the name . of the Grand Treasurer and his successor in office, for the use of The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas. Constitutional Provisions.—Art. Ill, Sees. 4, 5.
52. Election of Officers.—The election of officers shall not take place before the morning session of the second day of the Annual Communication, the same to be held
64
GRAND
BY-LAWS.
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
RELATING TO T H E GRAND LODGE.
under the supervision of the Grand Master, who shall select such tellers as may be necessary properly to receive, count and report the votes. The Grand Master may exclude visitors during the election, and no other business shall be in order while the election is pending, except during such time as the tellers may be engaged in counting the ballot. ConstUutioiisI Provisions.—Art. II. Sec. 3; Art. Ill, Sec. 2; Art. IV, Sec. 4.
53. Installation.—The officers-elect if present shall, be installed by the Grand Master, or by such Past Grand Master as he may appoint; those who are absent may be installed, by authority of the Grand Master, in any' Lodge. A vacancy in any office shall be created by death, suspension, expulsion or insanity. Constitutional Provisions.—Art. II, Secs. 2, 3; Art. III. Sec. 2.
54. Salaries.—The following annual salaries shall be paid to officers: To the Grand Master, $800; to the Grand Treasurer, $200; to the Grand Secretary, $3,000; to the Assistant Grand Secretary, $3,600; to the Private Secretary to Grand Master, $600; to an official stenographer for the Annual Communication, $50; to the Grand Tyler, $50; to the Assistant Grand Tyler, $30; to the Grand Chaplain and Grand Orator, $25 each. The Grand Secretary, Assistant Grand Secretary, and Private Secretary to Grand Master shall be paid monthly; the Grand Master and Grand Treasurer, quarterly; and all others at the expiration of their terms of office. Constitutional Provisions.—Art. II, Sec. 3; Art. I l l , Sec. 6.
55. Allowance to Chairmen.—The following allowances shall be made to the chairmen of the standing committees: On Credentials, $25; on Reports of Grand Officers, $10; on Finance, $50; on Jurisprudence, $40; on Trials and Punishments, $100, to be paid at end of year'6 service; on Chartered Lodges and Lodges Under
GRAND BY-LAWS.
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
65
R E L A T I N G TO T H E G R A N D LODGE.
Dispensation, $50; on General Purposes, $25; on Investigation of Records and Property, $50; on Correspondence, $500, to be paid when the work is completed; on Necrology, $25; and, in addition thereto, the necessary expenses of the chairmen of the Committees on Finance, Chartered Lodges and Lodges Under Dispensation, and Investigation of Records and Property, in making necessary examination of the records, returns and property prior to the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . H I , Sec. 2.
56. Other Allowances.—-Allowances shall be made to the following for their expenses, including mileage, in attending the Annual Communications: Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Grand Senior and Junior Wardens, Grand Treasurer, Grand Secretary, Grand Chaplain, Grand Orator, Grand Tyler, Assistant Grand Tyler, Assistant Grand Secretary, Lecturers, Official Stenographer, the chairmen and members of the Committees on Credentials, Finance, Jurisprudence, Trials and Punishments, Chairman of Committee on Investigation of Records and Property, resident Past Elective Grand Officers, and Directors of the Masonic Home Board. The other appointed officers. Chairmen and members of the other standing committees, and all present District Deputy Grand Masters who attend the conference, shall receive the same compensation as the representatives of Lodges, and in case of the absence of any District Deputy Grand Master the mileage may be paid to the one tentatively selected to succeed him. Constitutional Provisions.—An. I l l , Sees. 2. 7.
57. Allowances to Representatives.—The following allowance shall be made to one representative from each Lodge represented at the Annual Communication who shall have been in attendance at all its sessions: An amount equal to the actual and necessary expenses for
66
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BY-LAWS. •
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
R E L A T I N G TO T H E GRAND
LODGE.
transportation to and from the Grand Lodge by the nearest traveled route: Provided, That in no case shall the amount exceed the annual dues paid for the preceding year, exclusive of the amount to be transferred to . the Masonic Home, any special assessments and the ten per cent, for charitable purposes. The officers of the Lodge shall be entitled to this compensation in the following order: (1) The Master, (2) Senior Warden, (3) Junior Warden. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . I, SeC. 4. R a t i o ot Representation.—Owing to the number of its members the Grand Lodge cannot be well accommodated except in the largest cities of the State, and there is no other way, except by the payment of mileage to the representatives, by which the expenses incident to representation can be equalized. While the present plan of payment of mileage to only one representative from each Lodge does not equalize the burden, it affords the smaller and weaker Lodges with but one representative, a ratio of representation to membership equal to the larger and stronger Lodges with two or three representatives.— BASSETT.
58. Allowances for Schools of Instruction and District Meetings.—The Lecturers designated by the Grand Master, and no others, shall be allowed eight dollars per diem and their actual and necessary expenses, including transportation, while actually engaged in holding schools of instruction in Lodges and at district meetings; said per diem and expenses, or either thereof, to be paid by the Grand Lodge, or the Lodge or Lodges, at the discretion of the Grand Master. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . IV, Sec. 0. E.<cpenscs E n Route.—This law contemplates the payment of per diem and expenses to the Lecturer while en route to and from the place of instruction. — C O M . R E V . 1929.
59. Allowances for Committee on Trials and Punishments.—The Committee on Trials and Punishments shall receive for their services the sum of ten dollars per diem, said amounts, when approved by the Chairman, to be paid out of the General Fund of the Grand Lodge on the order of the Grand Master. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . I l l , .SeC. 2.
GRAND BY-LAWS.
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
RELATING TO T H E GRAND
67 LODGE.
60. Restrictions.—No salary or allowance shall be paid for any constructive service or discharge of duty, nor shall a member entitled to compensation for one duty receive the compensation prescribed for any other duty, but he may elect for which duty he shall be paid. These restrictions shall not apply to any officer, or member, who may be required to perform some extraordinary service during the recess of the Grand Lodge, but for such service he may receive such compensation as may be reasonable. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . V I I I , SeC. 5.
61. Publication of Proceedings.—The Grand Secretary shall publish the Annual Proceedings of the Grand Lodge as soon as practicable after the close of the Annual Communication, including therein the transactions of any Special Communication held during the year, the Report on Correspondence, all orations, addresses and lectures not esoteric, delivered before, the Grand Lodge. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . I l l , Sec. 6.
62. Distribution of Proceedings.—The Grand Secretary at the expense of the Grand Lodge, shall send one copy of the Annual Proceedings to each of the Grand Officers, Past Elective Grand Officers, District Deputy Grand Masters, Lecturers, Grand Representatives, chairmen of the Standing Committees, Kansas State Historical Society, Kansas State Library, Kansas Masonic Home and Masonic publications; one copy to each of the Lodges, and three copies to the Grand Secretaries of such other Grand Lodges as may be in correspondence with this Grand Lodge, in the exchange of a like number of Proceedings, preserving all remaining copies in the Grand Lodge Building. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—-Art. I l l , Sec. 6. Oi&cial Notice.—A published copy of the Proceedings of the Grand Lodge received by a Lodge, is ofBcial notice of the action of the Grand Lodge, or a certified copy of its proceedings, or any part thereof, is ofBcial notice.— SHARP, G .-. M .-. 1R76.
68
GRAND
BY-LAWS.
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
RELATING TO THE GRAND
LODGE.
63. Triennial Proceedings.—The Grand Secretary shall cause the Proceedings for every three consecutive years to be bound in volumes of uniform style, and send one copy to each Past Elective Grand Officer who shall request the same, to each Lodge, to each Grand Lodge in correspondence with this Grand Lodge, in the exchange of like bound Proceedings, to the Kansas State Library and to the Kansas State Historical Society. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . I l l , See. 6.
64. District Deputies.—The Grand Master is hereby authorized to appoint not less than fifty District Deputy Grand Masters, who shall be Masters or Past Masters, and residents of their respective districts. The boundaries of such districts and any changes therein, shall be fixed by the Council of Administration. Said District Deputies shall receive no compensation for their services, except that the Lodges visited shall pay the necessary traveling expenses and provide entertainment. Each District Deputy shall visit each Lodge in his district at least once each year; he shall not be charged with ritualistic instruction, but shall be the personal representative of the Grand Master in his district, and inspector of the work, lodge property and records; he shall also arrange for and hold in his district at least one general meeting each year at such place as may be designated by the Grand Master, to which meeting all the Lodges of his district shall be invited. He shall make report of his doings on blanks furnished for that purpose, and additional special reports when requested by the Grand Master. A conference of the District Deputy Grand Masters shall be held at each Annual Communication, and those attending the conference shall receive the same mileage as representatives of Lodges; Provided, however, That in case of the absence of any District Deputy Grand Master the mileage to which he is entitled may be paid to the brother who has tentatively been selected to succeed him if he be
GRAND BY-LAWS.
LODGE OF KANSAS.
69
RELATING TO T H E GRAND LODGE.
present; and, Provided further, That they do not receive mileage under some other provision of the law. Constitutional FroTisions.—Art. II, Sec. 3; Art. I l l , Sec. 7.
65. Title and Reception of District Deputy Grand Masters.—A District Deputy Grand Master during the time he shall hold such office shall possess the rank of Past Grand Junior Warden; and when he makes an official visit to any of the Lodges in his district, he shall be received in the same manner and with the same ceremony as is prescribed by the usages and customs of the Fraternity for the reception of elective Grand Lodge Officers, other than the Grand Master. Constitutional Provision.—Art. VIII, Sec. 4.
66. Jewels, Official Ciphers and Other Property Held by District Deputy Grand Masters.—The jewels, ciphers and Book of Instructions issued to the District Deputy Grand Masters shall be and remain the property of the Grand Lodge, and a receipt for such property shall be given to the Grand Secretary by each, and they shall turn over said property, together with the filing case, laws. Proceedings, blank forms, stationery, sample standard blanks, sample standard minutes, and any other supplies necessary for performing the duties of District Deputy Grand Master, to their successors in office at the conclusion of their services as such District Deputy Grand Masters, or to the Grand Secretary upon his request. Constitutional Provisions.—Art. HI, Sec. 6; Art. VIII, Sec. 5.
67. Contingent Fund.—At each Annual Communication the Grand Lodge shall set apart and appropriate the sum of $1,500 as a contingent fund for the Grand Master; and also to be used by him for paying expenses of visitations, Grand Officers attending funerals, meetings of the Council of Administration, laying corner-stones, dedicating halls, or paying the expenses of any brother incurred under the direction of the Grand Master. Constitutional Provision.—Art. VIII, Sec. 5.
70
GRAND
BY-LAWS.
LODGE ^
OF
KANSAS.
RELATING TO THE. LODGES.
68. Per Capita Tax by Members of Defunct Lodges. —A member of a Lodge, the charter of which has been surrendered or revoked, who shall apply for a certificate from the Grand Secretary, must pay the amount of the Grand Lodge per capita tax from the date of said surrender or revocation to the date of the issuance of said certificate, before the same shall be issued. Such application for a certificate shall be made by any member entitled thereto on or before .December 31st following such surrender or i-eyocation; any member failing to so make application shall be subject to suspension by the Grand Lodge at the next Annual Communication. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provisions.—Art. VII, Sec. 7; Art. VIII, Sec. 5.
RELATING TO THE. LODGES.
69. Communications.—The Communications of a Lodge are either Stated, which are required to be held at certain times fixed by regulation, or Special, which are called for some specified purpose by order of the Lodge or its Master, and which, can only be called subsequent to proper announcement at a Stated Communication, except for conducting a Masonic funeral or other ceremony aside from. conferring degrees, and the Lodge must be opened in the lodge, room or some adjoining apartment. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—Art. VIII, Sec. 5. C u s t o m . — T h e assemblies of the Lodge are technically termed Communications. They are of two kinds—.Stated and Called.—Masonic Juris.— .SIMONS, p. 150. The Communications of a Lodge are either Stated or Special. —Masonic Law—LOCKWOOD, p. 48 They are sometimes called Regular or Emergent.—{Id.) Under these regulations they are called Stated or Special, in conformity with the Constitution.—BASSETT. Kinerfeency or Occurrence Coininuiiication This law does not prevent the Master from congregating the members of bis Lodge at his pleasure in case of an emergency or occurrence, as provided in Section II. Regulations of 1721.—Co.M. R E V . 1929.
GRAND BY-LAWS.
LODGE OF KANSAS.
71
RELATING TO T H E LODGES.
70. Stated Communication.—At the time and place prescribed in the By-Laws for holding a Stated Communication, the Master shall assemble the members, and if a quorum be present, he shall open the Lodge on the Third Degree of Masonry; if less than a quorum be present, he may summon any or all of the members to attend forthwith. The minutes of the Communication or Communications of a Lodge shall be read, corrected if necessary, and approved at the next Stated Communication. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n s . — A r t . II, See. 7; Art. V, SeC. 7. O i s p e n s u t i o n , D e c r e e , Q u o r u m a n d S u m m o n s . — A L o d g e Cannot be
lawfully opened, in Stated Communication, at any. otiier place, on any other day, or before the hour prescribed by law or regulation, except by dispensation from the Grand Master or by order of some one of the officers as jjrovided by law under the head of "Order to Assemble." It is an inflexible rule that each Stated Communication must be opened on tlie Tliird Degree. The first purpose of a Stated Communication is the transaction of business, and all business must be transacted in. the Lodge while open on the Third Degree. The number of members required for a ciuorum is fixed by Article V, Section 7, of the Consiitution. The summons here provided for is generally served by the Tyler, but it may be served, by any Master Mason appointed by the Master for that purpose.—BASSETT. Busincss.-^Tlie ordinary business of a Lodge must he transacted a t a Stated Communication and at the usual place of meeting of the Lodge. See .law under head of "Order to Assemble."—COM. REV. 1929. E x p u n c t i o n of Minutes.—A Lodge cannot expunge any portion of its minutes;' it may alter or amend them to agree with the facts, but cannot expunge any part of the correct record.—SAQUI, G .•. M .•. 1802.
71. Special Communication.—At the time designated for holding a Special Communication, the Master shall open the Lodge on such Degrees only as may be required for lawfully doing the work for which it shall be convened, which must be conferring Degrees, or performing some Masonic ceremony. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provisions.—.'Vrt. II, Sec. 7; Art. A', Sec. 7. E x a m i n a t i o n a t a Special.—^.Incident to conferring degrees, candidates for Advancement may be examined and their proficiency passed on at a Special Communication, and when demanded, a ballot may be taken as provided by the last clause of Section.7, Article VI, of vhe Constitution. * * * xiie word "ceremony" here refers to tlie public ceremonies only.^BASSETT,
72. Order to Assemble.—^Any Lodge may be required to assemble in Stated or Special Communication by the Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Grand Senior or
72
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BY-LAWS.
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
RELATING TO T H E LODGES.
Junior Wardens, or.by any Past Master duly authorized; and when a Lodge has been convened, the officer congregating it may call any Master Mason to the chair, who, while presiding, may exercise all the powers of the Master. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provisions.—Art. I l l , Sees. 2, 3; Art. V, Sec. 7.
73. Opening and Closing.—The Lodge must be regularly opened on each Degree in which work is to be done. Forall public ceremonies, except funerals, it shall be opened on the First Degree only, but for a funeral ceremony, on the Third Degree. It shall be sufficient to close on the highest Degree on which it has been opened. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provisions.—Art. II, Sec. 7; Art. V, Sec. 7. I n s t a l l a t i o n Cercmony.-^If the installation of officers be public, the Lodge must be opened on the First Degree; if private, the Lodge must he opened ou the Third Degree.—COM. REV. 1913. Public Installations.—Public installations are sanctioned by Masonic usage, but the Lodge should assemble in the Lodge room, or some adjoining apartment, open in due form, and proceed to the place of installation without calling off. There should be nothing like the ceremony of openin/j or closing, calling off or calling on, in public—ADAM.S, G.-. M . ' . 18G7
74. Unfinished or Additional Work.—'A Lodge cannot be called off beyond the night of the day on. which it was opened, and all unfinished business must be laid over until the next Stated Communication. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—Art. VIII, Sec. 5.
75. Place of Meeting.—A Lodge may be held in any secure place suitable for Masonic work and ceremony, and may occupy a hall used by any other society which has for its avowed purpose the mental improvement and moral elevation of mankind; such occupancy cannot, however, be shared with any other organization or society without first having the approval of the Grand Master. The lodge room cannot be used by the Lodge or any Master Mason or association of Master Masons for social gatherings or amusements of any character; it shall
GRAND BY-LAWS.
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
73
RELATING TO T H E LODGES.
always be kept clean and orderly and smoking shall not be permitted at any time while the Lodge is open. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provisions.—Art. V, Sec. 3; Art. VII, Sec. 1. When Used By Others.—This does not apply to the use of the hall for social gatherings by any other organization or society occupying the same, but has reference onl.v to the use of the lodge room for social gatherings by Master Masons.—COM. R E V . 1929. Dedication.—Masonic halls leased for a term of years cannot be dedicated. POSTLETHWAITE, G .: M .". 1S91
76. Lodge Funds.—^The funds of a Lodge can only be used in defraying the necessary expenses for its maintenance, the payment of the Grand Lodge per capita tax and assessments, and for building purposes, and for charity. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—Art. VIII, Sec. 6. Lod^e Funds.—The funds of a Lodge are to be used for Masonic purposes which as provided by Section 6, Article VIII of the Constitution includes the payment of any sum of money out of its treasury for the support of the poor, for the relief of the distressed or for any other purpose which shall tend to ameliorate the condition of the human family or an individual.—PAULEN, G.-. M.-. 1922
77. Publicity — Endorsement—Word " M a s o n i c " — Emblem—-Forbidden.—Announcements through the public press concerning the activities of a Lodge must be confined to notices of Communications, funerals, and other ceremonies, and no Mason, group of Masons, or Lodge, as such, can endorse or recommend any individual, firm, or undertaking, other than for purely Masonic purposes; neither can they use or permit the use of the word "Masonic" or any kindred term, or emblem of Ancient Craft Masonry in the organization of outside societies, or for advertising, or in the promotion of any business enterprise, except legitimate Masonic publications, neither can they furnish a list of the membership or any portion thereof for any purpose whatever without the consent of the Grand Master. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . VIII, See. 5._
78. Addresses— Talks— Discourses.— No Lodge shall permit any one to deliver an address, talk, or discourse, either orally or otherwise, before it or the membership thereof, or to the public, on any subject except
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LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
R E L A T I N G TO T H E LODGES.
Masonry, and then only with the consent of the Grand Master. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provisif>ii.—Art. V I I I , SeC. 5. Not Applicable.—The above law does not refer to informal remariis made In open Lodge on Masonic topics offeied by anj brother, provided they do not partalfe of the nature of a formal address. This law does not apply to addresses, talks or discourses delivered on St. John's Day—June 24'.,h or -December 27th.—CO.M. R E V . 1929.
79. Lodge Trustees.—^Lodges may enact a By-Law creating a Board of Trustees, to be composed of three members, the first of whom shall be elected to serve for one, two and three years and thereafter one Trustee shall be elected annually by a majority vote of the members present at the Annual Conimunciation., The Trustees shall perform only such duties as the Lodge may, from time to time, direct, and they shall make due report to the Lodge at each Annual Communication, or oftener if ordered by the Master. All funds collected shall be promptly turned over to the Secretary, who shall receipt for the same and imrnediately turn them over to the Treasurer. , . C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . ' V l I I , SeC. 5. • Trustee—Office—Dlinit The office of Trustee, being one created by local Lodge By-Laws, does not prevent a brotlier from holding, at the same time, any other office created by oiir laws, or prevent him from dimitting during the terra for wliich he was elected as Trustee, provided the law governing dimission is complied with.—CO.M. REV. 1929.
80. . Seal.—Every Lodge working under a Warrant of Coristitution shall provide a Lodge Seal having in its center some Masonic device, surrounded by the name, number and location of the Lodge, and the date of its Warrant. The Secretary shall have it in charge and with it authenticate all notices, summonses, official communications and reports of the Lodge (except the annual report to the Grand Secretary) or any of its officers. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—Art. VIII, SeC 5. Design a n d Object.—The Seal, in Some form, is of great antiquity, and much importance is attached to the use of it. for it stands as a common signature and is indicative of genuineness. The form of the seal should be round. The lettering required specifically designates the Lod.ge.by name, number, and
GRAND BY-LAWS.
LODGE OP KANSAS.
75
RELATING TO T H E LODGES.
date of its authorization; these afford a means of recognition, from which, by reference to the published proceedings of the Grand Lodge, the regularity of the particular Lodge may be ascertained. " N o Masonic document is valid unless it has appended to it the seal of the Lodge or Grand Lodge."—Encyc. Freemasonry—MACKEY. 700. This, as a general proposition, may be true, but any Mason or body of Masons may waive the formality of the seal, and should do so in all cases, when satisfied by other evidence, of the genuineness of the docnment.—BASSETT.
81. Clothing, Working Tools, Etc.—^The members, and all Masons entering a Lodge, shall be appropriately clothed for labor, the officers bearing the jewels and emblems of authority which common usage has made appropriate to their rank and respective stations. The Lodge shall be provided with the working tools, lights, furniture, and all the implements necessary for the proper execution of all regular Masonic work and ceremony; and a U. S. flag of suitable size and of such material as the Lodge shall determine must be displayed in the Lodge roorn at every Communication. , ..• C o n s i l i u t i o i i a l Provision.—\Art VIII, Sec. .5. Gloves, .levels. Etc.—The usual custom is to dispense with the gloves, except on formal occasions, when the Lodge is convened for a funeral, or other public ceremony. The .iewels should always he of silver, or other white metal when the Lodge cannot afford the more expensive. The Lodge should guard against extravagance in the working tools, and other implements of Masonry, and especially avoid the vender of "carpets," (sometimes called.charts or tracing boards') and all other things of a like character, for it is much better to draw on the candidate's imagination, for the real, than to place before him that which bears no resemblance to any other created thing.—BAS.SETT.
82. Eligibility to Office.—All officers of the Lodge must be elected or appointed from the membership thereof, and no member shall be eligible to the office of Master, until he has been installed and served as a Warden in this Grand Jurisdiction. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provisicin.—Art. V, SeC. G.
83. Installation.—^The elective officers shall be installed by the Master or by a Past Master, but only when personally present, and on or before St. John's Day, in December, except by authority of the Grand Master, but
76 BY-I^AWS.
GBAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS,
R E L A T I N G T O THIS LODGE.S.
the appointed officers may be installed at any time the Master may order. C o n d t i t u c i o n a l Provisions.—Art. I l l , Sec. 2; Art. V, SeC. 6. Proxy, T e r m , Removal.—Installation is the ceremony of inducting one. who has been elected or appointed, into his office. This must be done by the Master or by a Past Master selected by the Master of the Lodge for this purpose, or by some officer who may be entitled to demand the gavel. No officer can be installed by proxy; this custom has e.tisted, but the practice, being of doubtful propriety, is becoming obsolete. " T h e term of ofHce begins on the Festival of St. John, the Evangelist, and the installation should take place on that day or before it."—Masonic Juris.—MAOKEY, .341. As the Master is responsible for the government of the Lodge, and Is charged with a correct and intelligent conduct of its business, it is a salutary provision of the law which gives him absolute control over his subordinates, to remove them and fill the vacancies thus caused at pleasure.—BASSETT. P u b l i c Installations.—Public Installations are sanctioned by Masonic usage, but the Lodge should assemble in the Lodge room, or some adjoining apartment, open in due form, and proceed to the place of installation, without calling off. There should be nothing like the ceremony of opening or closing, calling off or calling on, in public.—ADAMS, G .-. M .•. 1867. Appointive OfHcers.—The appointive officers are subject to removal by the Master at his pleasure, and those appointed to fill such vacancies may be installed without authority of the Grand Master. Any appointive officer not installed at the time of the regular installation may be installed at a later date by the Master without special authority.—COM. R E V 1929.
84. Vacancies.—A vacancy shall exist in any elective office upon the death, suspension, expulsion or insanity of the incumbent, or should an elective officer, on account of a change of residence, be unable to regularly attend the Communications of his Lodge, or if his physical condition is such that he cannot attend the Communications of his Lodge or perform his official duties, the Grand Master may declare a vacancy and order an election to fill such vacancy, and if an elective officer be chosen to fill such vacancy then the office held by him shall immediately become vacant and shall be filled by an election at the same Communication. After such vacancy will have been filled the brother vacating the office is entitled to a dimit upon application therefor, under the regulations governing the granting of dimits. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provisions.—-Art. I l l , See. 2; Art. V, See. 0. Does Not Apply.—This By-Law does not apply if the brother, at the time of his election, lived outside of the jurisdiction of the Lodge, or of the Grand Lodge.—COM. REV. 1929
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LODGE
OF KANSAS.
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RELATING TO T H E LODGES.
85. Succession and Appointment.—If a vacancy occur in the office of Master, or in case of his absence or disability, the Senior Warden, if present, shall succeed to his duties for the time, and if not present, the Junior Warden shall so succeed. If a vacancy occur in any other elective office, or if such officer be absent or under disability, the Master may, by appointment, fill the vacancy temporarily. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . V, SeC. 6.
Prerodativea of AVardens.—The prerogative of the "Warden.s to succeed to the ofOce of Master in case of a vacancy, is not a right continuing until the next annual election, unless the Grand Master, in the exercise of his discretion, refuses to order a special election. When the Senior Warden presides he may appoint any Master Mason to perform the duties of the Senior Warden, and in like manner whoever presides may fill any vacancy for the time. These powers, are clearly conferred by Section 5, Article II, of the Constitution.— BA.SSETT.
Absence of M a s t e r a n d Wardens.—Another right possessed by Past Masters Is that of presiding over their Lodges, in the absence of the Master, and with the consent of the Senior Warden, or of the Junior, if the Senior is not present. The authority of the absent Master descends to the Wardens in succession, and one of the Wardens must, in such case, congregate the Lodge. After which he may, by coxirtesy, invite a Past Master of the Lodge to preside. But as this congregation of the Lodge by a Warden is essential to the legality of the communication, it follows that, in the absence of the Master and both Wardens, the Lodge cannot be opened.—Masonic Jurir,.—MACKEY, p. 257. P a s t M a s t e r ' s I t i g h t to Preside.—We have already shown that, even if we admit the power of a Past Master to preside, he cannot do so until one of the Wardens has congregated the Lodge, and that is a power they cannot delegate.—Alasovic Juris.—SIMONS, p. 121.
86. Suspension and Reading of By-Laws, Etc.—A Lodge shall not suspend its By-Laws for any purpose whatsoever. The Constitution and By-Laws of the Grand Lodge, the Ancient Charges and Regulations, the Lodge By-Laws, and the Annual Proceedings of the Grand Lodge shall be read in each Lodge annually, and all copies of the Proceedings shall be kept in the Lodge room for reference. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—Art. VIII, Sec. 5. A m e n d m e n t , Repeal a n d Knowledge of Law.—It is a well-settled rule of Alasonic law that a Lodge cannot suspend the operation of a By-Law. A By-Law can be altered, amended or repealed, in the manner provided for by Article VIII, Section 5, of the Constitution, and in no other way. Every member of the Lodge should have a general knowledge of the law, and this can be acquired only by careful reading. The officers, those who are responsible for the govern-
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LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
BELATIIS^G T O T H E L O D G E S .
ment of the Craft, should acquaint themselves with the law, so as to be able to administer it correctly, and no one should rely upon the knowledge gained by hearing the laws read in Lodge once in each year. I t is intended that all those portions of the proceedings which are general in their character, which relate to subjects of general interest to the Craft, to the government of the Lodges and their proceedings, should be read.—BASSETT.
87. Powers of the Master.—The powers and prerogatives of the Master are such as have been accorded to him by usage. He should maintain his authority with dignity, and may close the door against any one who assumes to question his rulings or qualifications. When a Lodge is at labor he may temporarily depose any officer, and order some other brother to perform the duties of such officer. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provisions.—Art. IV, See. 4; Art. V, Sec. 6. T e m p o r a r y Deposition of Officers.—As there is no appeal to the Lodge from the decision of the Master, his rulings in all cases, must, for the time being, be submitted to by the members without question; they must render obedience to the constituted authority, and while the brethren render due obedience, carefully observing the laws and regulations, there is nothing to fear from the exercise of arbitrary powers by the Master, who will always be guided by his good sense and good feeling in his general conduct. The Master is responsible for the government of the Lodge and for the proper conduct of its work. I t Is therefore necessary that he should possess this extraordinary power when, in the exercise of a sound discretion, it shall appear that the best interests of the Craft will be thereby served.—BASSETT. Tie Vote.—-As the casting vote, in case of a tie, rests with the Grand Master, it necessarily follows that the same power rests with the Master of any Lodge.—COM. KEV. 1929.
88. Suspension of Officers.—The Grand Master may suspend a Master charged with an offense against the Body of Masonry, but such suspension shall be only from office, and not to continue beyond the close of the Master's term, or the close of the next Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge, and he may order charges preferred against any brother where, in his judgment, it is for the best interests of the Lodge in particular and the Craft in general. The Master may suspend any officer of his Lodge from office, but such suspension shall not continue
GRAND BY-LAWS.
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
79.
R E L A T I N G TO T H E L O D G E S
for more than one month, unless charges be preferred against such officer. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provisions.—Art. I l l , Sec. 2; Art. V, Sec. 6. Only F r o m Office.—The Grand Master Is invested with extraordinary powers, and may suspend the Master from office until the next Communication of the Grand Lodge, when he will be subjected to trial. This power exists under the common usage of Masonry. No power is conferred by law or usage on any officer, or constituted authority, to suspend any one from tile rights and privileges of Freemasonry, except by due trial, therefore the suspension in such cases can only be from office, or from the exercise of some special duty. It is the duty of the Grand Master to report his action, in such cases, to the Grand Lodge, and the jurisdiction and disposition of the case then rests with that Body. The offense of an officer may be such as to require immediate action, therefore it is provided that the Master may suspend an offending officer until an opportunity is afforded the Lodge for action.—BASSBTT. M a s t e r S u m m o n e d B e f o r e G r a n d L o d g e . — U n d e r the above law the
Grand Master may not only suspend the Master from office, but shall summons him to appear before Grand Lodge and answer to the charges submitted by tlie Grand Master.—COM. REV. 1929.
89. Duties of the Master.—The Mastef shall perform the duties which devolve upon him by usage, or are required by law, causing the Constitution and ByLaws of the Grand Lodge, the Ancient Charges and Regulations, and the Lodge By-Laws to be strictly observed. He shall attain such proficiency in the Ritual as will enable him to do the work and deliver the Lectures in a creditable manner. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—^Art. V, Sec. 6. Qualification of Master.—-The above law specifically provides that the Master shall not only qualify himself for conferring the several degrees and delivering the Lectures, but shall likewise familiarize himself thoroughly in tho ceremonies In order that they may be conducted in a manner which will reflect credit upon the Fraternity.—COM. REV. 1929. Necessary Qualifications for Master.—The above law contemplates that no one should accept tlie Important office of Master unless he Is possessed of sufflclent ability and is willing to learn the work and deliver the Lectures.— COM. R E V . 1929.
90. Duties of the Wardens.—The Wardens shall perform the duties which devolve upon them by usage, or are required by law,, actively assisting and supporting the Master in the discharge of his duties, counseling and instructing their subordinates, and keeping general supervision over the Craft. They shall attain such pro-
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GRAND
BY-LAWS.
LODGE
OF
KANSAS. R E L A T I N G TO T H E LODGES.
ficiency in the Ritual and Rites as will fit them to discharge the Master's duties, whenever they succeed to his office. C o i i s U t u t i o n a l Provision.—Art. V, Sec. 6. Pa.st M a s t e r ' s Decree—Overseers.—In the absence of the Master, or in case of his disability, the Wardens are to succeed, respectively, to the duties of his office; it is therefore essential that they should become well informed in all things pertaining to the duties of the Master. I t has been urged that a Warden could not confer Degrees because he had not received the Degree of Past Master, but this is not the law, nor the rule in this jurisdiction, for this Degree is not deemed essential qualification for the Master. In assisting and supporting the Master in the discharge of his duties, these officers should see that due silence is observed around their respective stations. It is one of the traditions that the Senior Warden is the Overseer of the Craft, during the hours of labor, and the .lunior Wa.'den is the Overseer of the Craft during the hours of refreshment.—BASSETT.
91. Duties of the Treasurer.—The Treasurer shall perform the duties which devolve upon him by usage or are required by law, having charge of all funds, rendering a formal receipt to the Secretary for all moneys received, accounting for the same annually and at such times as the Lodge may order, and give such bond as the Lodge may require. All funds of the Lodge shall be deposited and kept by him in the name of the Lodge, and shall be paid out only on the standard form of warrant authorized by the Grand Lodge, and after it shall have been signed by the Secretary and countersigned by the Master. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—Art. V, See. 6. Evidence of Payment.—All claims against a Lodge, of any kind or character whatever, must be paid by means of these warrants, and not by checks, drafts, or any other form of evidence of payment, as the Treasurer has no authority to check against the funds.—COM. R E V . 1929.
92. Duties of the Secretary.—The Secretary shall perform the duties which devolve upon him by usage or are required by law, collecting all moneys due the Lodge, endorsing to the order of the Treasurer all evidences of payment which, together with atiy cash, shall be immediately turned over to the Treasurer, who shall receipt for the same, and he shall render an account thereof annually and at such other times as the Lodge may order.
GRAND BY-LAWS.
LODGE OF KANSAS.
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REIVATING TO T H E LODGES.
and give bond as the Lodge may require. He shall record the Proceedings of the Lodge, keep an account with its members, conduct its correspondence, issue its orders, and have the custody of its books, papers, records and seal. C o n a t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—Art. V, Sec. 6. Diligence a n d Skill.—As a collector, the Secretary should keep an account between the Lodge and each one of its members, and also with the Treasurer, to whom all collections should be paid at each Stated Communication. Diligence on the part of this officer in making collections is to be commended, and a proper effort on his part will serve a two-fold purpose; (1) The Lodge will be ready to meet its obligations; (2) the delinquent list will be less in numbers, and suspensions for non-payment of dues less frequent. He is the recording officer, the correspondent of the Lodge, and the keeper of its archives. In these several capacities his duties are numerous and important. He is, in fact, next to the Master, the most responsible of the officers, and on his skill, industry and zeal, the welfare of the Lodge largely depends.—BASSETT. E x p u n c t i o n ol Minutes.—A Lodge cannot expunge any portion of its minutes; it may alter or amend them to agree with the facts, but cannot expunge any part of the correct record.—SAQUI, G.'. M . ' . 1862.
93. Duties of Other Officers.—The other officers shall perform the duties which devolve upon them by usage and custom, being obedient to the orders of the Master and Wardens, and qualifying themselves for the proper discharge of the duties required of them. They shall keep the Lodge room in order for the comfort of its members, and put it in suitable array for the admission of visitors and the reception of candidates. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—^Art. V, See. 6.
Necessity o£ Order.—In all well regulated associations of men there exists, from necessity, some form of government, which consists of authority on the one part, and obedience on the other, hence some, of necessity, must rule and teach, wliile others must submit to authority and receive instruction, and it is enjoined on the latter class to qualify themselves for their present and future duties. These duties are essential; order is one of nature's first laws. When the Lodge room is made as comfortable and orderly as the conditions will warrant, it becomes attractive, and offers additional inducements as a place wherein a few pleasant hours may be spent on an occasional evening, and to visitors and candidates the impressions formed are favorable.—BASSETT. Who May Confer Degrees.—The necessary qualiflcations of officers in every Lodge are so plainly set out in the several preceding sections that it makes it not only unnecessary Ijut undersirable to call on members of other Lodge? to do the work and deliver the lectures as it reflects upon the qualiflcatlona of the officers. The practice of so-called "degree" or "team workers" visiting other Lodges for the purpose of exemplifying the work should, not be
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BY-LAWS.
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
R E L A T I N G TO T H E LODGES.
permitted as it has a tendency to lessen the interest of those who are striving to become well qualified workers in their own Lodge. Where such "degree" or " t e a m workers" are self constituted and not the officers of any particular Lodge, they shall not be permitted to take part in the work. The practice is foreign not only to Masonic law and the Landmarks, but to the Customs of Freemasonry. This does not contemplate that it is not desirable for Lodges to exemplify the Third Degree in the dramatized form, but to emphasize the undesirability of "degree" or " t e a m woikcrs" visiting other Lodges.— COM. B E V . 1929.
94. Duties of Members.—The members shall perform such duties as the Lodge or the Master may require of them, ever being reverential toward GOD, obedient to the laws of their country, and humane, charitable and just to their neighbors and all others. They shall observe the Moral Law, and support and enforce the Regulations of Freemasonry, defending, maintaining and extending the honor of its name. Moral Law.—Ten Commandments. T h r e e I m p o r t a n t Duties.—This section comprehends the three important duties which every man owes, viz: his duty to his GOD, to his country and to his neighbor. The first rests on the foundation stone, a belief in Deity, the second is based upon the necessities of society, and the third is founded upon the genuine principles of the Institution. The "Moral Law" is the rule of right, as applied to man's thoughts and actions, revealed by the Great Architect of the Universe, inscribed on man's conscience, and binding on him by divine authority. The remaining duties, here enjoined, follow the obligation of each individual Mason, provided, that in the defense of Masonry he shall be carefiU not to do that which may detract from its good name.—-BASSETT.
95. Standing Committees.—Every Lodge shall have two Standing Committees,—one on Finance, consisting of three members to be appointed by the Master, who shall examine the reports of the Treasurer and Secretary, and audit all claims against the Lodge; and one on Charity, consisting of the Master and Wardens, who shall dispense the charities of the Lodge in such manner as its regulations may require. The annual audit of the accounts of the Treasurer and Secretary shall be made as soon as practicable after the Annual Communication, and a report submitted to the Lodge at a Stated Communication not later than forty-five days after said Annual Communication. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—Art. VIII, Sec. 5.
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A p p o i n t m e n t a n d Removal.—It is the right as well as the duty of the Master to appoint all of the committees of the Lodge, unless by special provision of law some other method be provided in particular cases. The Master should appoint his Finance Committee at the time he appoints his subordinate ofHcers, immediately after his installation, for, as the Master is responsible for the management of the affairs of the Lodge during his term of office. It is appropriate .that he should have persons of his own selection to aid him, and he has authority to remove or appoint at pleasure, or in the absence of any member he may fill the vacancy temporarily, if the occasion requires the committee's action. The duties of the Committee on Charity cannot easily be deilned, and its members must generally be left to the exercise of a sound discretion.—BASSETT. Non-Affiliate.—A Master Mason who is a non-affiliate from choice can have no legitimate claim upon the Charity Fund of a Lodge.—CI-ARK, G . - . M .•. 1895.
96. Reimbursement in Charity.—It is the bounden duty of any Lodge and all Master Masons in this jurisdiction to render to any true and worthy affiliated Master Mason who, without fault on his part, is in distress, such assistance as his necessities may require and their abilities permit, without reference to his place of abode or the location of the Lodge to which he belongs. In the absence of an explicit agreement, no Lodge has any claim on any other Lodge for reimbursement for sums advanced as charity to or in behalf of a member of such Lodge or his family. As, under our law, each Lodge is required to have a committee on charity, consisting of the Master and Wardens, "who shall dispense the charities of the Lodge in such manner as its regulations may require," therefore, such committee, or at least the chairman thereof, ought in all cases to be consulted by the officers of any other Lodge intending to make a claim on the charity funds of a Lodge. The express and unequivocal consent of such committee, or the Lodge, should be obtained before any outlay of moneys be made for or on account of such other Lodge. C o n a t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—Art. V I I I , SeC. 5.
97. Lodges U.". D.-.—Qualification of Officers.— Preliminary to the issuance of Letters of Dispensation the proposed officers shall receive instruction from an authorized Lecturer and exhibit to him their skill by an exemplification of the Work and Lectures of all three Degrees. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—Art. IV, Sec. 6.
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98. Lodges U.-. D.-.—Fees.^Befofe Letters of Dispensation shall be granted for opening and holding a new Lodge for Masonic work, the petitioners shall pay to the Grand Secretary the sum of twenty dollars therefor. If the Letters of Dispensation be continued by order of the Grand Lodge, or renewed by the Grand Master, no additional fee shall be required. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provisions.—Art. V, Sees. 1-4; Art. VII, Sec. 7. I n s t r u c t i o n s . — T h e petition for Letters of Dispensation should conform in every respect, even technically, to the requirements of the law. The neces.sary forms and instructions should be obtained from the Grand Secretary, who Is required to furnish them. If the Grand Master should revoke the Letters before any proceedings are had under them, the Grand Secretary should return the fee with the order of revocation, but, if the order of revocation is made after the new Lodge has commenced work the fee Is forfeited, or if the Letters should be renewed, no additional fee can be required. The same rule applies in cases of suspension for any cause, as where deaths, removals, or withdrawals, may reduce the Craftsmen of the new Lodge below seven in number or the Letters have been lost or destroyed.—BASSETT.
99. Lodges U.". D.".—Communications and Roll.— All Communications of Lodges Under Dispensation are to be considered Stated Communications, at which petitions may be received, and all business pertaining to the Lodge transacted, observing the rules governing chartered Lodges in like cases. The Grand Master may at any time add to or drop from the roll of such Lodges the name of any Master Mason. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n s . — A r t . I l l , Sec. 2; A r t . V, SeCS. 1-4. M e e t i n g s . Property a n d M e m b e r s h i p . — T h e meetings are not distinguished as Stated and Special Communications, they are all of the same character. A Lodge U.*.D.'. cannot acquire property: all of its furniture, working tools, etc.. as well as all moneys received, subject to the expenses of organization and maintenance, are the property of the Grand Lodge, but if a Warrant is afterwards granted, such grant carries to the new organization the Interest of the Grand Lodge in such property. As a Lodge U.-. D .•. cannot receive additions to Its members by afflllation, the power is conceded to the Grand Master to add to the roll of petitioners the names of non-afiBllated Master Masons residing in the jurisdiction of the new Lodge, and he may also erase the name of any one of the petitioners from the petition.—BASSETT. T e r r i t o r i a l J u r i s d i c t i o n . — A Lodge U.'. D .'. has the same rights of Territorial Jiu-isdiction as it would have were it a chartered Lodge.—LAMB, G . . M .'. 1889. Lodges U n d e r Dispensation.—^A Lodge under dispensation cannot accept a petition for advancement.—HOISINGTON, G .•. M .•. 1902.
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100. Lodges U.-. D.-.—Transcript.—^The Letters of Dispensation shall be returned to the Grand Secretary with a Transcript of the Proceedings, showing the location and name of the Lodge, and date of each Communication, and containing a full copy of the minutes of each meeting, which minutes shall show the officers and craftsmen present, the petitions received, the action thereon, and the Degrees conferred. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provisions.—Art. V, Sees. 1-4. C o n s t r u c t i o n a n d R e c o m m e n d a t i o n . — T h e Letters of Dispensation, In the absence of any special regulation, designate the time of the expiration of authority to work under them, which must be before the first day of the next Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge, succeeding their Issuance. The transcript is a copy of the minutes, and should be in the hands of the Grand Secretary early enough for the proper committee to give it a careful examination. A Lodge TJ.". D.". has but three permanent officers, viz: Master, Senior Warden, and Junior Warden; all others are temporary and should appear In the record as follows: JOHN DOE, as Treasurer, RICHARD D O E , as Secretary, etc. It Is good practice for the Master to continue the same persons In the subordinate offices, during the entire term of the organization, subject to the rule, that changes In office should be made only for good cause.—BASSETT.
101. Lodges U.-. D.-.—Return of Work.—The Return of the Work shall be substantially in the form required for the annual report of a chartered Lodge, showing, in tabular form, the roll of officers and craftsmen, the name of each petitioner, and the dates of conferring the Degrees. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n s . — A r t . V, Sees. 1-4.
102. Lodges U.'. D.'.—-Surrender or Revocation.—'If the Letters of Dispensation be surrendered by the petitioners, or revoked by the Grand Master, the Grand Secretary shall return to the petitioners any certificates of dimission which they may have produced with their petition for Letters, and if any work has been done under authority of such Letters, the Grand Secretary shall give each Mason made thereunder a certificate showing his degree and standing. C o n s t i t n t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n s , — A r t . I l l , See. 2; A r t . V, Sees. 1-4. Certificates a n d Petitions.—In these certificates Of dimission would be Included any other evidence of former membership, produced by a petitioner, showing that the Lodge of which he was last a member had ceased to exist. If any one has petitioned a Lodge U.'. D.-. for the Mysteries of Masonry,
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and the Letters of Dispensation expire before his petition has been acted on, or a t any time before he has received all of the Degrees, his right to Initiation or Advancement is suspended until a new Lodge is constituted in the same territory, when his relations to such new Lodge will be the same as they were to the Lodge V /. D .-. Prodded, If the Grand Lodge shall refuse to authorize the constitution of a new Lodge or the renewal of the Letters, he shall have the right to petition for the Mysteries of Masonry or for Advancement to the Lodge in whose jurisdiction he may then reside.—BASSETT.
103. Warrant of Constitution.—The petition for a Warrant of Constitution shall show the Lodge from which each petitioner has been dimitted, and shall nominate a brother for Master, one for Senior Warden, and another for Junior Warden, and this petition shall constitute the original roll of membership. C o n s t i t n t i o n a l Provisions.—Art. I l l , Sec. 2; Art. V, Sec. 5.
104. Warrant of Constitution.—Before the Warrant of Constitution shall be delivered to the petitioners, they shall pay to the Grand Secretary, for the use of the Grand Lodge, twenty dollars, if Letters of Dispensation have been previously issued, otherwise they shall pay forty dollars. The name of the city or town in which the Lodge is to be located shall be the name of the Lodge, unless the Grand Master for some good reason rules otherwise, in which event it shall be given a name bearing some Masonic significance or in memory of some distinguished Masonic scholar, but in no event shall it be named for a living person; Provided, however. That no Lodge shall be given a name which has already appeared on the rolls in this Grand Jurisdiction. Every Warrant shall be engrossed on parchment, and the Grand Secretary shall receive for engrossing the same, or for any authorized copy thereof, five dollars. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provisions.—Art. I l l , Sec. 2; Art. V, Sec. 5. N a m i n g I.ocl£es After L i v i n g Masons.—Resolved,
That T h e M .-. W .-.
Grand Lodge discountenance the practice of using the names of living Masons in naming new Lodges.—Proc. JSTi, p. 75. N u m b e r i n g Lodiies.—It has been the universal custom since the organisation of the Grand Lodge, to assign new Lodges the same number as that formerly held by defunct Lodges if at the time the new charter is issued any such vacant numbers exist, and in order to maintain our complete numerical record this custom shall be continued: if there are no vacant numbers then the new Lodge shall be given the next consecutive number on the roll.—COM. REV. 1929.
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105. Lodges U/. D/.—All Three Degrees Necessary. —Where a petition for a Warrant of Constitution is presented by petitioners working under Letters of Dispensation their prayer cannot be granted until their report shows that all three degrees have been conferred by them. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provisions.—Art. IV, Sec. 6; Art. VIII, Sec. 8.
106. Warrant of Constitution Lost or Destroyed— Filed in Archives.—When any Warrant of Constitution shall have been lost or destroyed, the Grand Master may, upon proof of the fact, authorize the Grand Secretary to issue a certified copy of the "original Warrant, for which he shall receive an engrossing fee of five dollars. Each Lodge may, if it so desires, file its Warrant of Constitution in the archives of the Grand Lodge, and receive in exchange a certified photographic copy from the Grand Secretary. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . I l l , Sec. 2. Bflect o i D e s t r u c t i o n of H a l l a n d C h a r t e r . — A Lodge does n o t lose its territorial jurisdiction by reason of its hall and Charter having been destroyed, even though the Lodge holds no Communications. I t is the act of the Grand Lodge that creates a Lodge, and the Charter is only the external evidence of its existence. The Lodge still lives and retains all its rights until the Grand Lodge revokes its Charter.—CALI.AHAM, G .-. M .'. 1892.
107. Fees for Special Dispensations.—All applications to the Grand Master for Special Dispensations, except for performing ceremonies attending the laying- of corner-stones and the dedication of halls, and for the election and installation of officers to fill vacancies, shall be accompanied by a fee of five dollars, which, if the dispensation be granted, shall be turned in to the Grand Secretary as a part of the revenue of the Grand Lodge, but should the dispensation be refused, it shall be returned to the Lodge or officer making the application: Provided, That the Grand Master may remit the fee when, in his judgment, the necessities of the case may require. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l ProTisions.—Art V, Sec 5; Art. VII, Sec. 7
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108. Fees for Certification and Masonic Record.—In all cases where the Grand Secretary is requested to certify to the regular standing of any Lodge, other than the certification on oificial receipts for dues, he shall collect a fee of twenty-five cents for each certificate, except when the request comes from a Lodge in another jurisdiction. He may also collect a fee of ten cents for furnishing the Masonic record of any brother the request for which must come from a regular Lodge; all such fees to become a part of the revenue of the Grand Lodge. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provisions.—Art. V. Sec. 5; Art. VIT, Sec. 7.
109. Grand Lodge Dues.—Every Lodge working under a Warrant of Constitution shall pay annually to the Grand Lodge a per capita tax of one dollar arid ten cents ($1.10) on its roll of membership, and a fee of two dollars ($2.00) for each dimission, as the same appears on the Annual Report of the Lodge for the preceding year, and any special assessment. This per capita tax shall not be assessed against the members, but shall be included in the account •for annual dues, and be paid out of the General Fund of the Lodge. Any Lodge which neglects or refuses to pay all its annual per capita tax or fees or any special assessment on or before the 10th day of January in each year, or which .shall fail or neglect to make and transmit to the Grand Secretary its Annual Report on or before the 10th day of January in each year shall not be entitled to representa-. tion in the Grand Lodge following such failure, the postmark on the envelop to be accepted as evidence of the date of transmittal, and in all such cases of failure the Grdnd Secretary shall notify the Lodge to that effect, and shall not issue credentials to such Lodge. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provisions.— Art. V, Sec. 5; Art. VII, Sees. 6, 7. Taxable Members.—By Sec. 7, Art. VII, of the Constitution, provision is made for Grand Lodge revenue, and it is here provided what the annual rate, per capita, shall be. The annual returns of the I^odges are made up to December 31st, in each year, and it is on the roll of membership, reported in this annual return, that the tax is payable; so if one is raised to the Third Degree, afflliates, . or is restored or reinstated at the last communication of the year, the Lodge must be taxed for such additional member; on the other hand, all persons who
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may die, dimit, oi; be suspended or expelled, during the year, are to be dropped from the roll, and no tax is required on their account, for the return should ihow the condition of the Lodge at the close of the year.—BASSETT. Method of P a y m e n t . — I n the matter of payment of per capita tax due from sundry Lodges lo the Grand Lodge, the committee are of opinion that the law makes it obligatory upon the Lodges to pay the amount promptly, and it is the duty of the Worshipful Master to see that special assessments, as well as ordinary dues, are paid to the Grand Lodge, and he should countersign an order upon the Treasurer, which should be drawn by the Secretary without any formal action of the Lodge, for the amount due the Grand Lodge.—^COM. JORis., Proc^ 1896. V. ZSZ. I n s a n e Brother.—If an insane brother be borne upon the Lodge roll of membership, the Lodge is required to include him in payment of per capita tax to Grand Lodge.—COM. JURIS., Proc. 1896, p. 282.
110. PetitionsT-Execution and Recommendation.—A petition for the Mysteries of Masonry, or for Advancement, or for Membership, shall be in writing, showing when and where the petitioner was born, his residence, the period of his residence in the state and jurisdiction of the Lodge, his business address, his vocation, whether he has previously petitioned another Lodge, and shall be signed in ink, by his own hand, with his name in full. It shall be recommended by two members of the Lodge petitioned, who shall be held as certifying to the candidate's physical, mental and moral fitness to be made a Mason, or to be advanced or admitted to membership. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provisions.—Art. VI, Sees. 1—7, Contents.—The petition is a statement of facts, of which the petitioner is presumed to have knowledge; it should be in writing that it may be preserved: it should be signed by the petitioner, as an evidence of genuineness and good faith, and with his first name in full in proof of identity. As jurisdiction depends largely on residence and its term, and as residence is often a matter of intent, the petitioner's statement should be direct, and without ambiguity. On his age, the candidate's qualifications may, in pari;, depend, for he cannot properly be made a Mason, if under the age of twenty-one. His vocation should show his adopted occupation, trade, or profession, and not his temporary calling or employment.—BASSETT.
111. Petitions—Reception.—A petition for the Mysteries of Masonry, or for Advancement, or for Membership, shall be read in open Lodge at a Stated Communication, and the unanimous consent of the members present s h a l l b e required for its reception, such consent to be signified by a show of hands. The refusal to receive
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a petition shall not operate as a rejection, • but the petitioner may renew his application at any time. If a brother declares himself as opposed to the reception of a petition in advance of its formal presentation to the Lodge,, or threatens to cast an unfavorable ballot on any or all petitions to be presented to his Lodge, he shall be deemed to have committed an offense against the Body of Masonry. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provisions.—Art. VI, Sees. 2—7. U n a n i m o u s Consent.—If there be any objection, on the part of any member of the Lodge, to the reception of a petition, it may be assumed that such objection will follow it through its various stages, and as there must be a unanimous ballot, a unanimous consent for Initiation and Advancement, It has been considered best to require the application of the rule of unanimity for its reception. The refusal on the part of the Lodge to receive a petition is not to be construed, for any purpose, as a rejection, and the applicant is to be treated, if he shall again petition, as though he had not previously petitioned; in other words, there cannot be any claim of jurisdiction, over such petitioner, by virtue of the fact of the presentation of a petition which the Lodge refused to accept.—BASSETT.
Objection to Advancement.—The objection to the advancement of a brother must be made in open Lodge by the brother making the objection.— PETERS, G .-. SI.-.
1906.
112. Petitions for the Mysteries.—A petitioner for the Mysteries of Masonry shall state in his application that he has long entertained a favorable opinion of the Ancient and Honorable Society of Free and Accepted Masons, and is desirous of admission thereto; that, if admitted; he will cheerfully conform to all the established usages, and yield a cheerful obedience to all the requirements of the Institution. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provisions.—Art. VI, Sees. 1—7. Beason for Contents.—These statements are a declaration of purpose ' and are a substantial part of the declarations required from the candidate previous to his initiation. The declaration contained in the second clause is a reasonable one, for no one should seek admission into a society of which he does not have a favorable opinion, and no society should consider the application of anyone who does not hold it in high esteem. The last clause of this section is particularly obnoxious to the enemies of the Institution; they ask, "How can one honestly pledge obedience to requirements of which he is uninformed?" To the petitioner the answer is not difficult; having formed a favorable opinion of the association, and being acquainted with the character of the men composing it, he is assured that no dishonorable act will be required of him.—BxssKTT.
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RELATING TO T H E LODGES.
113. Petitions for the Mysteries—Waiver.—A petition for tiie Mysteries of Masonry sliall show whether the candidate has previously petitioned another Lodge, and if it appear that he has in this Grand Jurisdiction, and that more than six months have elapsed since his rejection, his application may be received. If it appear that such other Lodge was without this Grand Jurisdiction, and is still working, he shall present with his petition a waiver of jurisdiction, or the consent of such Lodge. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n s . — A r t . VI, Sees. 1-7.
Actual Resident.—A Lodge shall not receive a petition for the Mysteries of Masonry from any candidate, unless he is at the time and has been for six months next preceding an actual resident within its territorial jurisdiction, and for the year next preceding an actual resident of this Grand Jurisdiction. —Const. An. VI, Sec. S. Rejected Candidate.—The opinion of the writers on Masonic law are hot all in accord on the relation existing between a rejected candidate for the Mysteries of Masonry and the Lodge rejecting him. . His status, however, depends largely upon the local law. Some Grand Lodges h o l d t o the doctrine of perpetual jurisdiction, the jurisdiction which follows a rejected candidate for life, without regard to the territory of his residence, so that he cannot afterward petition another Lodge without the consent of the one first rejecting him, unless it shall have waived jurisdiction, or ceased to exist; other Grand Lodges hold that the candidate so rejected may after a certain time petition any other Lodge, within whose territorial jurisdiction he may have gained a lawful residence. The provisions of the third clause are imposed to prevent controversy.—BASSETT. Rule of Comity.—The last sentence of this By-Law is a distinct recognition of the Rule of Comity which should prevail between Grand Lodges. As before observed, that rule requires each to recognize and give full faith and credit to the acts of every other, provided the Ancient Constitutions be not infringed, the General Regulations not set aside, or the old Landmarks removed. Therefore, this Grand Lodge has in this section recognized the doctrine of perpetual jurisdiction in a Lodge which has once rejected a candidate in another Grand Jurisdiction, while by its laws it has denied the same privilege to its own Lodges.—COM. REV. 1898. I n v e s t i i i a t i o n of R e j e c t e d P e t i t i o n e r . — W l l i l e it is n o t required, y e t
it is highly desirable that in all cases where a petitioner was rejected in some other Lodge in this Grand Jurisdiction, that the committee to whom the petision was referred malce diligent inquiry of the Lodge in which he was rejected concerning liis fitness to be made a Mason.—COM. REV. 1929.
114. Petitions for Advancement—Contents and Disposition.—In all applications for Advancement, upon "Waiver" or "Request", by a sojourner, or an actual resident, who has removed from the jurisdiction- of the Lodge (whether within or without this Grand Jurisdiction)
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in which he was accepted as a candidate, a petition shall be required, and such petition shall state: (1) The name, number and location of the Lodge which accepted his petition; (2) the degree or degrees received; (3) whether . the petitioner is a sojourner or an actual resident; (4) whether the Lodge accepting him as a candidate is still in existence, and if it be, whether it "waives" jurisdiction or "requests" the advancement of the petitioner, evidence of such "Waiver" or " R e q u e s t " to be attached to the petition; (5) whether or not the petitioner has ever been rejected as an applicant for any of the degrees of Masonry by any Lodge, and, if so, the location of such Lodge and the date of such rejection; (6) the period of his present residence, if an actual resident. Petitions for Advancement upon waiver, whether by a sojourner or an actual resident, must pursue the same course as an original petition for the Mysteries of Masonry; however, no such petition can be received until the candidate shall have resided within the jurisdiction of the Lodge for six months next preceding. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n s . — A r t . V I . SeCS 1-7. F u r t h e r Provision. By-Law 121. Rejected Petitioner or Sojourner.—The petition of a rejected sojourner or of a rejected applicant for membership on dimit may be renewed at any time.—COM. R E V . 1913. R e q u e s t a n Act of Courtesy.—A request for a Lodge to confer one or more degrees on an accepted candidate, and who for the time being is a sojourner within the jurisdiction of another Lodge, or who has permanently located within the jurisdiction of another Lodge, partakes of the nature of an act of courtesy and a matter of convenience to the candidate, hence any unpaid portion of the fee should be collected and returned to the Lodge in which the candidate was elected, although it is frequently the custom that a mutual arrangement is effected for the distribution of the remainder of the fee.—COM. R E V . 1913. Sojourner.—A petitioner for Advancement should be considered a sojourner only when his residence is temporary within the jm-isdiction of the Lodge which he petitions.—^CoM. R E V . 189S. Sojourner.—An enlisted man in the United States army, stationed at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, and who is not legally a citizen of the State, can only be recognized as being a sojourner, and the only Lodge in this Grand Jurisdiction to which he can petition is Hancock Lodge No. 311. Fort Leavenworth. — F I T C H . G .-. M .-. 1905.
Vouched for or Examined.—In all cases of advancement on "waiver" or "request" the applicant, if he has received one or more degrees, shall be vouched for. or prove himself by due e-xaminatlon.—COM. REV. 1913.
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E x a m i n a t i o n in Open Lodge.—Before any candidate is advanced to ttie Second or Ttiird'Degree lie must extiibit suitable proficiency in the preceding Degree in open Lodge.—PULLER, G .-. M .-. 1893. P e t i t i o n for Advancement.—A petition for Advancement is required in all cases where an application for Advancement is made to a Lodge other than the one which accepted the applicant's petition for the Mysteries of Masonry.—LAMB, G.-. M . ; . 1889. Haskell Institute—Jurisdictions—A resident at or on the Haskell Institute Reservation can legally petition any Lodge located in the city of Lawrence,Kansas, unless he has a fixed legal residence elsewhere, in which case, under Section 2, Article VI, he can only petition a Lawrence Lodge as a sojourner. —FOWLER, G .-. M.-. 1928.
115. Communications with Lodges in Other Grand Jurisdictions.—All communications from a Lodge in this jurisdiction to a Lodge in another Grand Jurisdiction, upon the subject matter of Masonic membership or the conferring of degrees, shall be sent through the Grand Secretary, and no Lodge in this jurisdiction shall respond to a communication from a Lodge in another Grand Jurisdiction upon these subject matters without first referring the same to the Grand Secretary. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . V I I I , Sec. S.
116. Transmittal of Requests.—All requests for conferring degrees, whether made upon a Lodge within or without this Grand Jurisdiction, shall be sent to the Grand Secretary for transmittal to the Lodge upon whom the request is made. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . V I I I , Sec. 5.
117. Fees for Advancement^Membership.—In all cases where the work is done at the request of the Lodge having original jurisdiction, the fees paid for advancement belong to the Lodge making the request, and the brother's membership remains in the original Lodge. If the work be completed upon a waiver of jurisdiction, the Lodge issuing the waiver shall return to the candidate the pro rata amount of the total fees paid, based on the number of degrees received, and the brother, on receiving the Third Degree, becomes a member of the Lodge completing the work. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . V I , SeC. 6.
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B e q u e s t a n Act of Courtesy.—A request for a Lodge to confer one or more degrees on an accepted candidate, and who for the time being is s sojourner within the jurisdiction of another Lodge, or who has permanently located within the jurisdiction of another Lodge, partakes of the nature of an act of courtesy and a matter of convenience to the candidate, hence any unpaid portion of the fee should be collected and returned to the Lodge in which the candidate was elected, although it is frequently the custom that a mutual arrangement is effected for the distribution of the remainder of the fee.—COM. R E V . 1913.
118. Right to Request.—No Lodge in this jurisdiction which has accepted a'candidate and conferred upon him at least one degree shall have the right to request another Lodge to confer the remaining Degrees, as an act of courtesy, after the candidate shall have been, for two years or more, an actual non-resident of the jurisdiction of the Lodge originally accepting him, but must waive jurisdiction, and which requires a majority vote of the members present. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provisions.—Art. VI, Sees. 2-7. L i m i t a t i o n of " W a v i e r " or " B e q u e s t . " — i t will be observed from the above that if no degree or degrees have been conferred on the candidate no "wavier" can be granted and no "request" made.—-COM. REV. 1929. Absence, Effect of.—The above section contemplates that a waiver can be granted only after a candidate has received at least oiie degree and been a non-resident of the Lodge electing him for two years or more; otherwise the Lodge must make a request.—COM. R E V . 1929. Filinii Objection.—A member has the right of objection to the granting of a request or waiver, and which must be treated in the same manner as an objection to the advancement of a candidate.—COM. R E V . 1929.
119. Rejection on Waiver.—In case of the rejection of a petitioner for Advancement on a waiver of jurisdiction, his membership remains in the original Lodge, and before he can again petition he must secure another waiver. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—Art. V I I I , SeC. 5.
120. Petitions for Membership—Contents—Dimit or Other Lawful Evidence.—A petitioner for Membership shall state in his application the name, number and location of the Lodge with which he was last affiliated, attaching a certificate of dimission or other lawful evidence for transferring membership, for cancellation by the Secretary, if admitted, and whether he has applied to any other Lodge for affiliation, and if so, the name, number and location of such Lodge. Before such dimit or other lawful
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evidence can be used in petitioning for Membership or Letters of Dispensation it must be signed in ink by the one to whom it is issued, giving his name in full. ConBtitntioxial Provision,—Art. VI, Sec. 5. Purpose.—The general purpose is to obtain, as nearly as possible, the Masonic history of the applicant, and also to furnish the committee of investigation the means of mailing a proper inquiry as to his character. The surrender of the certificate of dimission for cancellation Is an important matter, otherwise It might be fraudulently used to gain a like admission into another Lodge, after suspension or expulsion from the Lodge of the holder's last affiliation. I t may be uncharitable to assume that any one would make an attempt of this kind, yet it is a good rule, so long as depravity Is an element of human nature, to remove, as nearly as may be, every temptation to do wrong.— BABSETT.
P l u r a l or Dual Membership.—-Plural or Dual Membership is not recognized or sanctioned by our Grand Lodge.—COM. R E V . 1929. Penncylrania DImit.—Under the regulations of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, suspension for non-payment of dues severs the membership of a brother with his Lodge. When he pays his dues he is restored, not to membership, but to good standing as a non-afflliated Mason, and a certificate is given him, signed by the ofBcers of his Lodge, which shows, among other things, that " A . B., late member of • Lodge No.-—, of Pennsylvania, has ceased to be a member thereof, and is in good Masonic standing. He is recommended to the kind consideration of the Fraternity," etc. " T h e certificate which he holds would entitle him to petition the Lodge of which he was a former member, or any other Lodge in the Grand Jurisdiction of Pennsylvania, and the comity existing between sister Grand Jurisdictions, in the absence of any law to the contrary, entitled the brother to petition any Lodge in this Grand Jurisdiction." (Proc. 1891, p. 93.)—COM. B E V : 1898. Prero^ativea of G r a n d Master.—See Constitutional Provision.—Art. III. Sec. 2, Notes.
121. Petitions—Committee of Investigation.—When a petition for the Mysteries of Masonry, or for Advancement when accompanied by a "Waiver" of Jurisdiction, or by a "Request" from another Lodge, or for Membership, shall have been formally received, the Master shall refer it to a Committee of Investigation, to consist of three members, who shall be indifferent brothers, to be selected by him from the membership of the Lodge. In not less than four weeks, except in case of petition for Advancement on "Request" of another Lodge, each and every member of this Committee shall make an oral report in open Lodge, in person or through some other member of the Committee, unless excused by order of the Master, and in the event of such excuse, a new Committee shall
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be appointed and cannot report in less than four weeks. Where one member reports for" the entire Committee the report to him may be made over the telephone. In no event shall any one demand from such Committee, or from any member thereof, the reason for its conclusion, or the facts upon which it is based. All petitions for Advancement upon " R e q u e s t " of another Lodge, either within or without this Grand Jurisdiction, shall be referred to a Committee in the same manner and under the same conditions as a petition for the Mysteries of Masonry, or for Advancement when accompanied by a "Waiver" of Jurisdiction, or for Membership; however, the report of the Committee on the petition for Advancement when accompanied by a "Request", may be made and the ballot spread at the same Communication at' which it is presented. Constitutional Provisions.
Art. A^I, Sees. 2—7.
Previous Pr«.vision.—-By-Law 114. R e q u i s i t e F o u r M^eeks B e t w ' e e n D e g r e e s N o t W a i v e d o n ' ' R e q u e s t " .
—The provision authorizing a Lodge to act instanter on a petition for Advancement when accompanied by a " R e q u e s t " , does not waive the usual four weeks which must elapse between the conferring of the degrees, whether such " R e q u e s t " is made by a Lodge within or without this Grand Jurisdiction. -^COM. REV. 1929. A c t i o n o n " R e q u e s t " W h e r e Lodge is Defunct.—The above law does not eliminate the four weeks between the reception of a petition for Advancement on " Request" and action thereon, where such " Request" is made by the Grand Secretary on account of the Lodge being defunct in which the candidate was elected and received none or only one or two degrees, or where Letters of Dispensation were issued and the Grand Lodge declined to grant a charter. — C O M . R E V . 1929.
D u t y a n d Report.—The Committee should be composed of indifferent persons; that is, of persons who are neither partial to nor prejudiced against the petitioner, for the members of the Lodge must depend in a great measure for their action upon the report which it is the duty of the committee to make. I t is an old regulation which provides for this inquiry (Reg. 1721, 52; Par. v.), and the inquiry should extend not only to the reputation but also to the moral, mental and physical requirements. (Landmarks 5; Par. xvlli, xix, xx. id. 6; Par. V.—id. 14; Par. x.—id. 14; Par, 1, Iv.—id. 16; Par. i, ii, ill.) The report should never be made in writing, for, if It be unfavorable, or not unanimous, and the petition be rejected on ballot, it is better that the record should not show any individual expression of opinion. The report * * * may be announced by any one of its members.—BASSETT. Ballot on Report of Committee.—-A ballot must be taken on every report of an Investigating Committee, whether favorable or unfavorable, unless the committee shall report want of jurisdiction.—COM. REV. 1913.
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122. Petitions—^Committee of Investigation.—The Committee of Investigation shall not report upon any petition for Advancement until the petitioner shall have been vouched for, or proved himself by due examination an Entered Apprentice, or Fellow Craft; and it shall not report favorably upon any petition for Membership until the petitioner shall have visited the Lodge, if he reside within its jurisdiction, or shall have been vouched for, if he reside without its jurisdiction. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n s . — A r t . V I , Sees. 1—5. Avouchinent.—The best course, in such cases, is not to receive tlie petition until after the candidate lias been vouched for or proved himself, but if by inadvertence tliese preliminaries have not received attention, it is the duty of the committee to call this to the Master's notice, and await liis further order. If the petitioner cannot meet the requirements, his petition should be returned, without action, and treated in all respects as though it had not been presented. In the case of an applicant for Membership the same general rule should be observed.—BASSETT.
123. Petitions—Withdrawal—Rejection.—A petition for the Mysteries of Masonry may be withdrawn at any time before, but not after, its reference, and a petition for Advancement or Membership at any time before, but not after, a ballot has been ordered, and upon withdrawal or rejection of a petition for the Mysteries of Masonry or for Advancement, the Secretary shall return to the petitioner the money which he may have deposited. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n s . — A r t . V I , SeCS. 2 - 7 . EHect of Rejection.—See Const. Art. VI, Sec. 7. P e t i t i o n Not R e t u r n e d . — I t will he observed from this law that in all cases of rejection it is contemplated that the petition is not returned, but is retained in the archives of the Lodge.—COM. R E V . 1929.
124. Petitions—Ballot.—A ballot shall be ordered upon any petition as soon as the report of the Committee of Investigation shall have been made thereon, unless the Committee reports a want of Masonic jurisdiction, in which event no ballot shall be necessary. The ballot shall be under the supervision and control of the Master and inspected only by him and the Wardens, the result in all cases to be declared by the Master, after which he shall immediately destroy the ballot before re-
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turning it to the Senior Deacon. Every member present shall vote and the Master shall not entertain any excuse from voting, or motion to postpone the ballot, or to reconsider it. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n s . — A r t . VT, .ScCS. C, 7. J u r i s d i c t i o n . — M e n t a l or physical disqualification of the candidate deprives the Lodge of jurisdiction.—Co,\i. BEV. 1913. K e c o n s l d c r a t l o n of Ballot.—It is not in order, at any subsequent meeting, to reconsider the ballot or vote by which any measure was either passed or rejected at a ijrevious meeting.—RUSH, G.'. M .'. 1877. P o s t p o n e m e n t — E x c u s e . — T h e ballot cannot be postponed. I t should be talien immediately after the committee has reported, and the Master should state clearly and distinctly, in the hearing of all the members, the nature of the report, that no one may. be misled. No one can be excused from voting, for unanimous consent is required to accept the candidate.-—BASSETT. M o t i o n t o Reconsider.—A motion to reconsider any action taken by the Lodge upon a matter of business must be made at the same communication and before any of the members have retired. Motions to reconsider a ballot are never in order.—COM. REV. 1898. B a l l o t i n g — M e t h o d — R e c o n s i d e r a t i o n . — W h e n a ballot is taken upon the petition of a candidate for the ISIysteries of Masonry, or of a brother for Advancement or Membership, and one- negative ballot appears, the Master should, at once, without comment and without permitting any remarks, order a second ballot, when, if one or more negative ballots appear, the Master should declare the petitioner rejected. After such declaration of rejection, the Master should not reopen or retake the ballot, or entertain any proposition for its reconsideration, under any pretense whatsoever.—SHAVER, G .•. M.'. 1898. Lack ol M a s o n i c J u r i s d i c t i o n . — T h e term "Masonic jurisdiction" in the above section refers to the candidate not possessing the requisite moral, physical or mental qualifications, or being of non-age or not coming within the requirements in the matter of territorial jurisdiction.—COM. R E V . 1929.
125. Four Weeks Between Degrees.—After a candidate has been elected to receive the Mysteries of Masonry, or for Advancement, four weeks must elapse between the dates of conferring the first and second degrees, and between the dates of conferring the second and third degrees, as provided in Article VI, Section 6 of the Constitution, and any Lodge violating this provision shall pay the sum of twenty-five dollars for each and every violation thereof, and if the offense be committed more than once in any one year the Grand Master shall arrest the charter and report the facts to the Grand Lodge at its next Annual Communication. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—Art. VI, Sec. 6. L u n a r a n d Calendar Months.—A distinction must be made in the application of the above law between the term "four weeks" and a "calendar
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month". The above law contemplates four weeks or twenty-eight days from the date the degree is conferred and not the ordinary calendar month of thirty d a y s . — C O M . B E V . 1929.
R e c i u i s i t c F o u r "Weeks Bet^veen I>e^rees N o t "Waived o n "Request**—The provision authorizing a Lodge to act instanrer on a petition for Advancement when accompanied by a "Request", does not waive the usual four weeks which must elapse between the conferring of the degrees, whether such " R e q u e s t " is made by a Lodge within or without this Grand Jurisdiction.— COM. R E V . 1929.
126. Petitions—Ballot for Advancement.—^But one ballot shall be required for all the Degrees upon any petition for the Mysteries of Masonry, or for Advancement, except that when one or more of the Degrees have been conferred, any member may, after the candidate's examination, demand a ballot upon any and every application for his further Advancement. When such ballot results unfavorably, the application may be renewed at any succeeding Stated Communication, but the Degree cannot be conferred, when such demand is renewed, until a favorable ballot results. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provisions.—Art. YI, Sees. 6, 7. Proficiency.—After the applicant has been examined and has retired (the Lodge having opened on the proper Degree) his Proficiency should be determined by a majority vote of those present, unless some brother demand a ballot.—COM. R E V . 1898.
127. Secrecy of the Ballot.—^The secrecy of the ballot shall be maintained inviolable, and if a brother criticise the result of any ballot, or indicate the character of any vote by him cast, or if he upbraid another for the result, he shall be deemed to have committed an offense against the Body of Masonry. Every member has a right to cast his ballot unquestioned as to its character, and, in the exercise of this right, he should act for the good of Masonry, and not be controlled by prejudice. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n s . — A r t . V I , SeCS. 6, 7. F u r t l i e r P r o v i s i o n . — B y - L a w 111. Timely Notice.—In all case.s of rejection the above section of the law should be read to the Lodge immediately following the Master's declaration of rejection.—.COM. R E V . 1929. Secrecy, U n a n i m i t y a n d Independence.—Three things are to be observed in the consideration of this subject: (1) The ballot must be secret; (2) it must be unanimous; (3) it must be independent. The secrecy of the ballot is as essential to its perfection, as its unanimity or its independence.—Masonic Juris.—MACKEY, 143. Unanimity is essential to harmony, and It would be
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unjust to admit a person whose presence in the Lodge might be unpleasant to one who had, before him, acquired the right of membership, therefore unanimity of the ballot is expressly provided for.—Sec. 7, Art. VI, Const. Independence Is an important factor in the preservation of secrecy and unanimity. While no one should be influenced by improper motives, in the exercise of Ills right of ballot, yet, if he is governed by an ungenerous feeling, his own conscience can be his only accuser.—BASSETT. Divul^in^ Inforniation Concerning Secret Ballot a n Olfense.—A rejected petitioner for the Mysteries of Masonry, or for Advancement, or a candidate who has been stopped from Advancement by written or oral objection, has no right to know by whom he has been denied that for which he petitioned. Any one conveying such Information commits an offense against the Body of Masonry.—CALLAHAM, G .: M .-. 1892.
128. Objection to Conferring Degrees.—Any member may object in open Lodge to the conferring of any Degree upon an accepted candidate. The objector shall not be required to state the grounds of his objection, and if the objection be made orally by the objector, in person, and recorded at his request, or if it is submitted in writing in open Lodge by the objector, in person, the candidate is barred from receiving the Degree until the' first Stated Communication after the expiration of six months from that date, and if not recorded, or a ballot is demanded after the candidate's examination and it results unfavorably, the objection shall remain in force only until the next Stated Communication of the Lodge. The objector may renew his objection, or he may withdraw it at any time, but it shall cease to be in force upon the termination of the objector's membership. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n s . — A r t . VI, Sees. 6, 7. M e t h o d s of Objection.—Under this law an objection must be made by the objector in person and in open Lodge. He may make his objection and request that it be recorded, or he may file Ills objection in writing, and in either case the objection holds good until the first Stated Communication after the expiration of six months from that date; he may make an oral objection, and if he does not request that it be recorded, or if he calls for a ballot immediately after the candidate has been examined and it results unfavorably, the objection, in either case, holds good only until the next Stated Communication.—COM. R E V . 1929. T i m e for Objection.—An objection by a member to the conferring of a Degree upon an accepted candidate may be made even during the progress of the work of the Degree at any time before the obUgation, and if so made, effectually stops the further progress of the work of the Degree upon said candidate at t h a i communication.—SHAVEB, G .'. M.'. 189S. M e m b e r s h i p of Objector.—A brother possesses the right of objection to the reception of a petition for the Mysteries of Masonry, or for Advancement
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or for-Membership, or to the conferring of a degree upon an accepted candidate, only in the Lodge of which he is a member. He does not possess this right in another Lodge having concurrent territorial jurisdiction with his own Lodge.—SHAVER, G .-. M .-. 189S.
M e t h o d a n d T i m e of Objection.—An objection may be made orally or in wriiing, but can be made by the objector in open Lodge only. I t cannot be recorded except by the request of the objector. Such objection must be eTitertained by the Master if made at any time before the candidate is "in due form" to receive the obligation.—COM. REV. 1898. T i m e for Objection.—In nearly all the Grand .Jurisdictions in correspondence with this Grand Lodge, the rule prevails that an accepted petitioner foT the Mysteries of Masonry may be temporarily prevented from receiving the Degrees by an objection interposed by a member of the Lodge at any time before the candidate shall be initiated. There is, however, no uniform rule as to the length of time such objection will continue to be operative, and but few of the Grand Jurisdictions have determined the question as to when a candidate is to be deemed so far "initiated" as to render an objection to further proceedings of no effect. The following authorities are interesting as bearing upon the question: The Grand Lodge of Xew "York denies the right of objection except in the form of a demand for a ballot. I t is provided in Art. X I I I , Sec 57, of its Constitution, that " a ballot for each degree is an imdeniable right whenever demanded, and if after a candidate has been accepted and before he has been Initiated, a new ballot be demanded, it must be taken." Under this provision of the Constitution, Grand Master ELWOOD B . THORNE, in 1876, decided as follows: " I f the Master of a Lodge has begun the work of conferring the Degree and a brother has reason to object to the initiation or advancement of the candidate, his proper course is to state to the Master t h a t h e has an objection, and it will rest with the Master whether he will proceed or not." When the decision just quoted came up for consideration before the Grand Lodge, it was amended by adding thereto the following words: " B u t the Master must regard the demand for a ballot if made at any time before the obligation," and the decision thus amended was approved by the Grand Lodge. (Proc. 1876, p. 113.) " I t is said that it is the obligation that makes the Mason. Before that ceremony there is no tie that binds the candidate to the Order so as to make him a part of it."—Encyc. of Freemasonry—MACKEY. The ByLaws of the Grand Lodge of Nebraska (See. 108, Par. 11) provide: " A t any time up to the obligation, an objection made to the Master or to the Lodge by a member thereof against the initiation or advancement of a candidate, murt be respected." In 1880, Grand Master LEMON, of Ohio, decided: "An objection to a candidate should be allowed if made at any time before he is obligated. For the much stronger reason, it should be allowed when made before the candidate has entered the Lodge." This decision was approved by the Grand Lodge of Ohio. I t was made under Section 41 of the Code of that Grand Lodge, which reads as follows; " A Lodge shall refuse to confer a Degree upon a candidate elected, if any member shall subsequently object thereto."—COM. B E V . 1898. E n t e r e d Apprentice C a n n o t Object.—Your committee express the opinion that an Entered Apprentice does not possess the right to participate in the transactions or discussions affecting the membership of the Lodge, and is not entitled to the rights and privileges of Masonry, and cannot object to the conferring of the First Degree on a candidate.—COM. JURIS., Proc. 1895, p. 103. Fellow Craft.—The last note would apply with equal force to a Fellow Craft.—COM. R E V . 1898.
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129. Time for Initiation or Advancement—Rejection. —A candidate who has been elected shall not be required to present himself for Initiation, or for Advancement, within any limited time, nor shall any lapse of time work a forfeiture of any right or privilege he may have acquired, but, if he be barred therefrom by ballot or by objection, . any deposit made by him shall be returned. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . VI, SeC. 6.
130. Place of Membership.—An applicant for membership becomes a member of the Lodge upon the declaration, by the Master, that he is duly elected thereto. A petitioner for the Mysteries of Masonry becomes a member of the Lodge which accepted his petition on being obligated as a Master Mason therein, or at its request in another Lodge. A petitioner for Advancement becomes a member of the Lodge in which he is obligated as a Master Mason, only in cases when the Lodge which accepted his petition has ceased to exist, or has waived its jurisdiction. No member of a Lodge in this Grand Jurisdiction, so long as he remains a member thereof, can hold membership in any other Lodge either within or without this jurisdiction. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n s . — A r t . VI, Sees 1, 5, 6. Signing of By-Laws.—The candidate having become a Master Mason, upon signifying his submission to tlie regulations of the society, by affixing Ws name to the book of By-Laws, is constituted by virtue of that act a full member of the Lodge.—Masonic Juris.—MACKEY, 180. When the Third Degree has been conferred, no further ceremony is requisite (for obtaining membership) save t h a t of the candidate signing the By-Laws.—Masonic Juris.— SIMONS, 177. Why required to sign By-Laws to acquire niembersliip? Can any such rule be found in the ancient writings? Do the Regulations of 1721 require it? Did not the candidate in his petition, and again before his initiation, and again at each stage of his advancement, promise to conform to the usages and customs of the Fraternity, and to o)5serve and obey tlie Constitution and laws of Freemasonry?—BASSETT.
131. Exclusive Jurisdiction Over Petitioners.—When a Lodge has accepted a petitioner for the Mysteries of Masonry, it shall be deemed to have, acquired exclusive jurisdiction. When a Lodge has accepted a petitioner for Advancement, in cases where the Lodge first accepting
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him is extinct, or has waived its jurisdiction, it shall be deemed to have acquired exclusive jurisdiction. When a Lodge has rejected a petitioner for the Mysteries of Masonry, or for Advancement, it shall not be deemed to have acquired exclusive or any continuous jurisdiction by reason of having refused to accept him. Constitutional Prorisions.—Art. VI, Sees. 1, 6. Majority Vote.—A majority vote of the members present is sufficient to grant a waiver of jurisdiction over a candidate after he has been an actual non-resident of the jurisdiction of the Lodge for two years or more, unless some member of the Lodge makes a formal objection, which must be treated in the same manner as an objection to the advancement of a candidate.—COM. R E V . 1929. Advancement—Rejection.—There are no other rules recognized. In the cases stated, than the ones prescribed above, but where a candidate, coming from another Lodge is accepted for advancement, under the provisions of Section 3, Article VI, Constitution, the jurisdiction acquired Is merely concurrent with the Lodge requesting a completion of the work, and either Lodge, to which the candidate may afterwards present himself, may confer the Degrees. The claim of exclusive or continuous jurisdiction over rejected material, merely because it has been rejected, is unreasonable, and the arguments advanced in support of such claims are based on false premises, and are illogical,—BASSETT. Effect of Objection.—A petitioner for the Mysteries of Masonry, who has been accepted by a Lodge, but who has been prevented from receiving the degrees by the objection of a member, cannot petition and receive the degrees in another Lodge having concurrent territorial jurisdiction with such Lodge.— . SHAVEU, G.-. M.-.
1898.
132. Fees for Degrees.—A petitioner for the Mysteries of Masonry shall pay therefor not less than thirty dollars. A petitioner for Advancement shall be required to pay only such sum as the Lodge first accepting him might require, and such fee shall belong to the Lodge of which he shall become a member as hereinbefore provided. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . V I I I , Sec. 5.
Fees to be Paid in Money.—^This law contemplates that all fees shall be paid in actual money, or check, and not otherwise.—COM. E E V . 1929. Fees lor Degrees.—Regardless of change in By-Law raising or lowering the amount, the fee in effect on date petition is received by a Lodge shall govern, no matter when the degrees may be conferred.—STRAIN, G .•. M.'. 1925.
133. Concurrent Jurisdiction Over Petitioners.—In all cases where two or more Lodges have concurrent territorial jurisdiction, and concurrent original jurisdiction over candidates, the Secretary of each Lodge shall
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notify the others of all petitions received for the Mysteries of Masonry, in every case giving the name, age and vocation of the petitioner, as stated by him. When such petition shall be accepted or rejected, a like notice shall be given, including the date of acceptance or rejection. All such notices shall be read in open Lodge. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—Art. VI, See. 1.
134. Dimission—Certificate.—An applicant for dimission shall not be required to state his reason therefor. He may prefer his request orally or in writing at any Stated Communication. The Lodge shall forthwith take action upon said request or application, and upon a majority vote of the members present sustaining such request or application, the dimit shall be granted, unless the member applying therefor be at the time an elective officer of the Lodge, have charges pending against him, or be in arrears for dues. When the application has been granted, the Secretary shall give to the applicant a certificate of dimission showing that he is in good standing and that his Lodge dues are paid to date; Provided, however, That before such certificate of dimission is issued the Secretary shall collect from the applicant the sum of two dollars ($2.00), which amount shall be remitted to the Grand Secretary with the Annual Report, and shall become a part of the General Fund of the Grand Lodge. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—Art. V I , SeC. 5. D u p l i c a t e Uinilts.—The Committee find that the law does not contain provisions authorizing the issuing of duplicate dimits, and the Committee recommend that where a dimit is lost or destroyed, the Secretary of a Lodge issue a certificate, under seal, showing the granting of such dimic, and its date.— COM. JURIS., Proc. 1895, p. 103.
135. Right of Visitation.—A Master Mason in good standing may visit any Lodge, but he must be vouched for by some brother who has previously sat in open Lodge with him, or he must prove himself to be a Master Mason by due trial and strict examination by a committee appointed by the Master, or by the brother acting
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as Master; such proof to include documentary evidence or personal v.oucher that he hails from some regular Lodge in this jurisdiction or within the jurisdiction of a regular Grand Lodge recognized by and in correspondence with The M.-. W.". Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas. Documentary evidence shall be a diploma, receipt for dues under seal of the Lodge, Grand Secretary's certificate, written endorsements by a Grand Master, or certificate of dimission—all of which shall designate a Lodge or Grand Lodge known to be regular and within the provisions of this regulation. Vouchers shall be personal, and made only in Lodge by some member thereof, or by a Master Mason who has established his right to sit in such Lodge. In all cases it shall be the duty of the Master of the Lodge to ascertain that the Lodge from which the visitor claims to hail is a regular Lodge within the provisions of this By-Law. Objection to Visitor.—While the right of every regular Mason in good standing (who can satisfactorily prove himself such) to visit and sit in any regular Lodge is, we believe, a Landmark of Masonry, this must always be considered in connection with the undoubted prerogative of each Master to exclude any one, not a member, whose presence is likely to disturb the harmony of his Lodge.—COM. BEV. 1929. Certificate.—A certificate under the seal of a Lodge, attested by the Secretary, that the person therein named is a member of such Lodge in good standing, is not of itself sufficient evidence of the fact to warrant a brother in imparting to him instruction in the esoteric work.—CLARK, G .". M .'. 1S95. D e m a n d C h a r t e r . — I t is not enjoined upon a visiting brother to demand an examination of the charter of the Lodge he proposes to visit, before he submits to an examination by a committee, and a failure to do so indicates nothing to a visitor's prejudice, while such demand often suggests small learning and large pretensions.—BUCK, G.*. M.". 1885.
136. Public Ceremonies,—A Lodge may publicly celebrate St. John's Day in June and December in each year, and may conduct the public burial ceremonies upon the death of any member or of. any sojourner, or may attend such funeral, though not conducting the ceremonies, without obtaining special authority therefor. Whenever appearing in public the members shall be decently clothed with white gloves and aprons, demean-
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ing themselves decorously, and being obedient to the Master's lawful commands: Provided, That no Masonic ceremonies of any kind shall be held or conducted on Sunday, except funeral ceremonies, and celebrations of St. John's Day. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provisions.—Art. II, Sec. 7; Art. V, Sec. 7. Pall-Bearers.—While it is desirable, it is not absolutely necessary that the pall-bearers at a Masonic funeral should be Masons.—COLEMAN, G . ' . M . - . 1897.
137. Masonic Burial.—Every affiliated Master Mason is entitled to Masonic burial by his Lodge, and at its expense, if circumstances require it; and a sojourner, who is an affiliated Master Mason, is entitled to Masonic burial by the local Lodge, and the same honor may be extended to non-affiliated Master Masons. When one Lodge gives Masonic burial to the member of another, and pays the funeral expenses, or any part thereof, no lawful claim for reimbursement exists in favor of the Lodge making such expenditures, unless such expenses have previously been assumed by the brother's Lodge. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . Art. I I , Sec. 7. N o n - A i m i a t e d Masons.—All the authorities agree that a non-affiliated Mason is not entitled to Masonic burial under any claim of right. Nonafniiation is not declared to be an offense against the Body of Masonry, neither can it be treated as such so long as the right of dimission is recognized and the rule of unanimity of ballot, on an application for afflliation, is enforced. It is therefore proper that discretion to act in such cases should he vested in the Lodge. Masonic burial is in its nature a charity, and any expense attending it is an actual charity. If one bestows charity on his neighbor, he has no claim on another for reimbursement on this account.—BASSETT. Effect of Suspension.—^A Lodge cannot rightfully conduct the funeral ceremony of a deceased Master Mason, who, at the time of liis death, was under suspension, either for non-payment of dues or for unmasonic conduct; the effect of such suspension is to deprive him of all the rights and privileges to which he was entitled prior to such suspension; nor can a Mason, while under suspension, sit in a Lodge of Master Masons or unite with the Craft in a Masonic procession.—CI-ARK, G .'. M .'. 1895.
138. Official Receipts for Dues.—No Lodge within this jurisdiction shall issue a receipt for dues except upon a prepared blank form, either paper or card, to be furnished by the Grand Secretary, which form shall contain a printed or lithographed certificate with fac-
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simile signature of the Grand Secretary and seal of the Grand Lodge, to the effect that the Lodge issuing the receipt is a lawfully constituted Lodge of Master Masons, working under the jurisdiction of The M.: W.". Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Kansas. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—Art. VIII, Sec. S.
139. Official Cipher.—^The official cipher, prepared and promulgated by this Grand Lodge, is hereby declared to be the correct cipher of the work of the three degrees of Ancient Craft Masonry, including the lectures appertaining thereto, described in Section 6, Article IV, of the Constitution, and every Lodge shall practice the same in all the ceremonies of conferring the several degrees and delivering the Lectures; they shall be receipted for by the newly elected Master on the blank furnished by the Grand Secretary which shall be forwarded to him with the Annual Report. No new copy of the official cipher shall be issued to any Lodge, except to replace those returned to the Grand Secretary on account of their useless condition; and when any Lodge shall not be able to present the copies of the official cipher with which it is charged when called for by the Grand Secretary or District Deputy Grand , Master, said Lodge shall pay a penalty of $20 for each copy not so presented; and the deliberate continuance of the possession by any brother of an official cipher, after the same has been accounted for to the Grand Secretary as lost or destroyed, or the sale, gift, printing or use of any cipher, ritual, or secret work, other than herein provided for, shall be deemed an offense against the Body of Masonry, and be punishable by expulsion from the Fraternity. The promulgation or withdrawal of the official cipher herein provided for shall be under the direction and control of the Council of Administration. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n s . — A r t . IV, Sec. 6; Art. VIII, Sec. 5. Lost or Destroyed Cipher.—No Lodge can be relieved of the payment of $20 for its failure to produce any Official Cipher, even though the same may have been destroyed by fire.—COM. R E V . 1913. Prohibiting Use of Cipher.—It is not proper for the officers of a Lodge to use the cipher ritual during the conferring of degrees.—BOND, G .-.M .-. 1907
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140. Book of Annual Returns.—Every Lodge in this Grand Jurisdiction shall keep a " Book of Annual Returns", such book to be furnished by the Grand Lodge at actual cost, in which shall be recorded all changes of membership, additions, roster of members, and such other information as may be required by the Grand Secretary concerning membership. This book shall be posted at every Communication of the Lodge, and every five years, when directed by the Grand Secretary, it shall be forwarded to him for verification and correction with the annual reports on file in the archives of the Grand Lodge. Should the Grand Secretary be called upon to complete any Book of Annual Returns by entering any year's record, or portion thereof, from the records in the office of the Grand Secretary, he shall collect from the Lodge the necessary cost for doing such work, which shall be turned in to the General Fund of the Grand Lodge. The cost of transmitting such books to and from the Grand Secretary shall be paid by the Lodges. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . V I I I , Sec. 5.
141. Life Memb ership Certificates—Diplomas for Framing—Dimits.—-The Grand Secretary may certify to the regular standing of a Lodge issuing Life Membership Certificates, a n d Diplomas for framing purposes; and to dimits, upon request of a Lodge in any other Grand Jurisdiction. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . V I I I , Sec. 5. F u r t h e r P r o v i s i o n . — B y - L a w 108.
142. Lodge Dues—Assessment—Remission.— A Lodge may provide a revenue for its support by requiring each member to pay annually a specific tax to be fixed by its By-Laws, and, at any Stated Communication, by a majority vote of its members present, it may assess an additional tax for current expenses and for charity, which shall be held to be a special tax for emergent purposes.
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It may remit the taxes of any member for inability to pay the same, and for any other cause which shall seem just and equitable to two-thirds of all the members present; however, no Lodge is exempt from paying Grand Lodge dues and assessments on such members. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—Art. VIII, SeC. 5. Exclusive Control.—The payment of dues is a duty incumbent on all the members of a Lodge.—Masonic Juris.—MACKEY, 194. It is admitted that the Lodge has the right to require the payment of an annual sum (called dues) by each of its members.—Masonic Juris.—SIMONS, 140. Additional taxes can be assessed only for current expenses and for charity. This is the rule in this jurisdiction.—Decision 9, Proc. Grand Lodge 1S67, IS; Decision 4, id. 1S7Z, 2Jf: Deciiion 23, id. 187o, 34. The Lodge has exclusive control over the matter of taxation and assessment of its members, when such taxes are levied and assessments are made for strictly Masonic purposes, and it may, under equitable rules in special cases, remit such taxes and assessments.—BASSETT. Non-Affiliate.—A Lodge lias no authority to collect dues from a nonaffiliated Mason.—CALLAHAM, G.-. M .-. 1892. Buildinrt F u n d . — I t will bo noted from the above section that a Lodge cannot malie an assessment for building purposes.—• COM. REV. 1929.
143. Financing Buildings—Grand Master's Approval. — A Lodge may construct a building for Lodge purposes, a portion of which may be used for legitimate business or professional enterprises, or it may purchase other property, real or personal, as an investment, but in no case can necessary funds for constructing buildings or purchasing property be raised by an assessment on its membership as all money for this purpose must be taken from the General Fund of the Lodge or raised by voluntary contributions; Provided, however, That all proposed plans for the construction of buildings and the financing of the same shall be first submitted to the Grand Master for such action as he may deem for the best interest of the Lodge. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provisions.—-Art. I l l , See. 2 ; A r t . V I I I , SeC. 5.
144. Lodge Dues—Non-Payment—Remission.—The specific taxes required by a Lodge and the per capita taxes required by the Grand Lodge shall be included in the terms "Lodge dues" or "dues". The neglect or refusal of a member to pay his Lodge dues shall not deprive
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him of any right or privilege in the Lodge or as a Mason, until by some prescribed rule of procedure such right or privilege has been restricted. If any member in arrears for Lodge dues states, in open Lodge or in writing, that he cannot pay his dues without material injury to his family, and such statement is confirmed by the Master, his dues shall be remitted. Efflect of N o n - P a y m e n t . — I t does not follow that because a Lodge ha.s a right to exact from its members the payment of dues, that it can, by merely adopting a regulation, deprive any member who may be in arrears, for any definite period, from exercising any special right or privilege, such as voting at the annual election for officers, or by making such payment one of the requisite qualifications for the discharge of any duty, such as holding office, without some formal procedure, and the question has been often asked. Why cannot the members bind themselves by such a regulation? The answer is, because no member can be deprived of any of his Masonic rights or privileges except by due trial, or by some formal action of the Lodge directed to his particular case.—BASSETT.
145. Lodge Dues—^Duty of Secretary—Suspension.— The Lodge dues shall be payable annually, at the first Stated Communication on or before December 15th. Not less than thirty and no more than forty-five days before such Stated Communication, that is the first Stated Communication on or before December 15th, the Secretary shall notify each member of the amount of his Lodge dues, by mailing a notice, in a sealed envelope with return address thereon, to each member; however, when a member is owing the previous year's dues and the present year's dues, the notice (that is, the same form of notice as that referred to above) shall be sent by registered mail to the last known post office address, and the registry receipt or returned letter shall be evidence of sufficient service. At the Annual Communication following the sending of the notice (that is, the first Stated Com, munication on or before December 15th) the Secretary shall report the names of all members who are owing the previous year's dues and the present year's dues, (that is, those who are two years in arrears) accompanying the same with the registry return receipt from each member, or the returned letter. The Master shall, thereupon,
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OF KANSAS.
Ill
RELATING TO THE LODGES.
immediately declare all such members suspended from; all the rights and privileges of Masonry for the non-payment of dues; Provided, however, That by a two-thirds vote the Lodge may, at the same Communication, for good cause, remit the dues of any such members. This section of the law shall be printed on the face of the notice referred to above. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . Art. VIII, SeC. 5. "When in Arrears.—Under the above law all members who have not paid their dues on or before the Annual Communication are in arrears.—COM. B E V . 1929. Defining F o r m of Notice.—It will be observed from the above law ' that but one form of notice is used.^CoM. REV. 1929. Effect of Suspension.—A Mason who has been suspended from all the rights and privileges of Masonry may nevertheless be charged and tried for an offense against the Body of Masonry.—COM. R E V . 1898. Non-Affiliated Masons.—A Lodge has no authority to collect dues from a non-afflliated Mason.—CALLAHAM, G .•. M .•. 1892. New Members.-—A member affiliating, or one raised at any time during the year, is liable for the pro rata proportion of the annual dues, but in no event, an amount less than the per capita tax and any assessment of the Grand Lodge.' — C O M . R E V . 1929.
146. Lodge Dues— Suspension— Remission.— A Lodge may, by a two-thirds vote of the members present at any Stated Communication, remit the dues of a member for the non-payment of which he may then be under sentence of suspension, but such remission shall not restore him. A member under sentence of suspension for non-payment of dues may at any time pay to the Secretary the arrearages for the non-payment of which he was suspended, but such payment shall not restore him. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—Art. VIII, Sec. 5. Accruing Dues.—A suspended brother is not chargeable with accruing dues during the period of his suspension.—COM. R E V . 1898.
147. Restoration.—A petitioner for Restoration to all the rights and privileges of Masonry, being at the time under sentence of suspension for any cause, shall state in his petition the cause of his suspension, and, if for non-payment of dues, he shall show payment or remission of all dues to the date of his suspension, and if for
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any other cause, he shall show a laudable effort to correct the wrong. In receiving and acting upon such petition, the Lodge shall be governed by the rules prescribed for receiving and acting upon petitions for membership, except that a two-thirds vote only shall be required for restoration. *^ C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . V I I I , See. 5. M e t h o d of Voting o n Restorotion.—A vote upon petitions for Restoration shall be by ballot.—COM. JUEIS., Proc. 1905, p. S76. R e s t o r a t i o n a n d R e i n s t a t e m e n t Distinguished.—A suspended Mason can be restored by a two-thirds vote of his Lodge to all the rights and privileges of Masonry, while one who has been expelled regains those rights and privileges by being reinstated by a unanimous vote.—COM. BEV. 1898.
148. Reinstatement.—A petitioner for Reinstatement to all the rights and privileges of Masonry, being at the time under sentence of expulsion for any cause, shall state in his petition the cause of such expulsion, and show what he has done for the reformation of the evil, the reparation of the injury, or the condonation of the wrong, and in what way he has endeavored to vindicate the honor of Masonry from the reproach of his wrong-doing. In receiving and acting upon such petition, the Lodge shall be governed by the rules prescribed for receiving and acting upon petitions for the Mysteries of Masonry, and a unanimous ballot shall be required. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . V I I I , See. 5. R e s t o r a t i o n a n d R e i n s t a t e m e n t Distinguished.—A suspended Mason can be restored by a two-thirds vote of his Lodge to all the rights and privileges of Masonry, while one who has been expelled regains those rights and privileges by being reinstated by a unanimous vote.—COM. REV. 1898. E n t e r e d Apprentices a n d Fellow Crafts.—The foregoing rules relating to restorations and reinstatements, except as to membership, are applicable to Entered Apprentices and Fellow Crafts.—-COM. R E V . 1898.
149. Restoration and Reinstatement.—A petitioner for Restoration or Reinstatement shall apply only to the Lodge by which he was suspended or expelled, but if such Lodge has ceased to work he may apply to the Lodge in whose jurisdiction he then may reside. The restoration or reinstatement of one who was a non-affiliated
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Mason is only to the rights and privileges of Masonry, and that of an affiliated Mason is to membership in his Lodge, if it be in existence. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—Art. A^III, SeC. 5. Remedy for Grievance.—Wlioever shall be aggrieved by the action of any Lodge must seek redress of his grievance in that Lodge, or by appeal to the Grand Lodge having jurisdiction of the Lodge complained of; for it is a fundamental law of Masonry that one Lodge cannot sit in judgment of the actions of anotlier Lodge.—BASSETT.
150. Forms and Record Books.—The Forms and Record Books approved by the Grand Lodge shall be the adopted ones for use of all Lodges in this Grand Jurisdiction and the Grand Secretary is hereby authorized, with the approval of the Council of Administration, to designate an Official Printer who shall, upon application, furnish these Forms and Record Books. Provided, however, That nothing herein contained shall prevent Lodges from having Forrhs and Record Books printed elsewhere if they meet with the requirements as indicated above. The Grand Secretary, at the expense of the Grand Lodge, shall furnished each Lodge with a complete set of sample standard Forms and pages of Record Books, for which all Secretaries shall furnish a receipt at the time of submitting the Annual Report, and in all cases where they have been lost, destroyed, or any forms removed therefrom, the Lodge shall pay to the Grand Secretary two dollars for each new set furnished, which amount shall be turned in to the General Fund of the Grand Lodge. All Forms and Record Books may be ordered direct from the Official Printer except the Official Receipt.for Dues, which must be ordered from the Grand Secretary. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provision.—Art. VIII, SeC. o.
151, Transfer of Membership.—A member, desiring to transfer his membership to another Lodge in this Grand Jurisdiction, may make application to his home Lodge for, and be granted a Certificate for that purpose in the same manner and upon the same conditions as in making application for a dimit. The Certificate so granted shall be signed by the Secretary, and under the seal of
^^
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the Lodge granting the same, and shall state: (1) That the applicant is a member in good standing of the Lodge granting the Certificate; (2) the name, number and location of the Lodge in which he desires to place his membership; and (3) the term for which the Certificate is granted, which term shall not be more than ninety days from the date of said Certificate; and such Certificate shall be null and void from and after the expiration of the term thereof, unless the brother's petition is in the hands of the investigating committee. When such Certificate is issued it shall not be delivered to the member requesting it, but shall be immediately transmitted to the Grand Secretary by the Secretary of the Lodge issuing the same. The Grand Secretary shall at once transmit the same to the Secretary of the Lodge named therein, and such Lodge may receive a brother's petition for membership accompanied by such Certificate, in lieu of a regular dimit. After the brother has been elected, his membership in the Lodge granting the Certificate shall thereupon cease, and it shall be the duty of the Secretary of the Lodge electing the brother to membership to enter across the face of the Certificate the date of the brother's election and forward it to the Grand Secretary. The Grand Secretary, upon receipt of notice of the election of said brother to membership, shall forthwith notify the Lodge granting the Certificate of such fact, and thereupon the Secretary of the Lodge issuing said Certificate shall fill out a dimit as of the. date the Certificate was granted and forward the same to the Grand Secretary, who shall in turn forward it to the Lodge in which the brother was elected to membership. Where a Certificate is outstanding at the close of the year the brother's name shall be listed with the roll of members of the Lodge issuing the Certificate, and it shall pay the per capita tax and any special assessment on him. In case the petitioner is elected in the Lodge petitioned subsequent to December 31st the Lodge issuing the Certificate will, in submitting
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the Annual Report the next year, take credit for the Grand Lodge dues and any assessments paid upon him. This law shall not modify or curtail any law now in force relative to dimits. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l Provi.sions.—-Art. V I . SeC. 5 ; Art. VIII. Sec. 5. Where Applicable.—This .method of transferring membership applies only between Lodges in our own Grand Jurisdiction.—CO.M. REV. 1929. Defining Ninety Day L i m i t . — T h e fact that the Certificate may be in the hands of the Master or Secretary at the time of the expiration of the ninety, day limit prior to its acceptance by the Lodge, does not, in any manner, extend the time of such Certificate.—^CoM. R E V . 1929. D e f i n i n g T e r m s for G r a n t i n g C e r t i f i c a t e s . — T h e words "in the same manner and upon the same conditions as in making application for a dimit" mean that before the Certificate is granted the applicant shall pay all dues, exclusive of Grand Lodge assessments, owing the Lodge up to the date of the issuance of the Certificate, and in case the brother is elected in the other Lodge he shall be required to pay the sum of S2.00 before the dimit is issued, which sum of !'2.00 shall be forwarded to the Grand Secretary with the Annual Report, to become a part of the General Fund of the Grand Lodge.-:—COM. R E V . 1929. W h e n M e m b e r s h i p is Completed.—Under this section of the law, the brother's transfer of membership is not completed until the Lodge in which he was elected has received the dimit from the Lodge granting the Certificate; in other words, until the dimit is received by the Lodge in which the brother is elected his membership remains in abeyance.—COM. R E V . 1929.
152. Tax on Work.—Every Lodge working under a charter or under Letters of Dispensation shall collect a raising fee of Five Dollars ($5.00) from each member raised in addition to the regular fees for the degrees. Said fee of Five Dollars ($5.00) is to become a part of the Endowment Fund of the Kansas Masonic Home, and such raising fee of Five Dollars ($5.00) is to be remitted to the Grand Secretary at the same time the per capita tax is transmitted, and by the Grand Secretary transmitted to the Secretary of the Kansas Masonic Home. C o n s t i t n t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . V I I I , Sec. 5.
153. Dues and Dimits.—Any Lodge granting a^dimit shall collect a fee of two dollars therefor from the brother obtaining the same, and a proportionate amount of dues for the current year on a monthly basis, exclusive^of any. Grand Lodge special assessment. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n . — A r t . V I I , Sec. 7.
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RULES OF PROCEDURE IN MASONIC TRIALS, APPEALS AND PUNISHMENTS.
154. Rules of Procedure in Masonic Trials.—Whenever a brother shall be accused of any offense, which, if proved, might subject him to reprimand, or to expulsion or suspension from the rights and privileges of Masonry, the proceedings in the premises shall be conducted agreeably to the rules of procedure in Masonic Trials, Appeals and Punishments. 155. Construction and Application of Rules of Procedure.—The Rules of Procedure in Masonic Trials, Appeals and Punishments, shall be liberally construed with a view to promote their objects and to give ample protection to every one in his rights. Its provisions shall not be applicable to suspension for non-payment of dues, or to. controversies between Masons, except in cases not cognizable and relievable by the laws of the country in which they may be, or in cases involving some law or custom of Masonry. 156. Offense Against the Body of Masonry.—An offense against the Body of Masonry is a wrong which may consist of any omission of Masonic duty specifically enjoined, or the commission of any act that may be derogatory to the reputation of Masonry. No charge shall lie against any Mason on account of any disagreement of a pecuniary nature merely, between himself and a brother. 157. Jurisdiction.—Every proceeding shall be based upon jurisdiction of the person, or subject of the action, and no action shall proceed ex parte until it shall appear that the accused has been personally or constructively
GRAND BY-LAWS.
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TRIALS AND P U N I S H M E N T S .
served with summons in the manner hereinafter prescribed, unless he be restrained of his liberty, except for insanity, and unable voluntarily to appear. 158. Limitation of Action.—No charge shall lie against any Mason for any offense committed before he petitioned for the Mysteries of Masonry, or for any offense committed more than five years before the charges shall be presented, unless the offense has been concealed or its perpetrator unknown. The presentation of charges and the proceedings thereon shall not affect a Mason's standing until sentence has been pronounced. 159. Charges and Specifications—Contents.—Every accusation, involving an offense against the Body of Masonry, shall be presented in the form of charges and specifications. The charge shall state a distinct offense and shall be a conclusion of facts. A charge shall not include more than one offense, except in cases of the repetition of a like offense. The specification shall be a clear and concise statement, without repetition, of the particular facts constituting the offense. The facts constituting each separate offense, under and included in any charge, shall be stated in a separate specification. Several charges may be made in the same complaint, but separate specifications shall be made under each charge, as above reiquired. C o n s t i t u t i o n a l P r o v i s i o n s . — A r t . VIII, Sees. 1, 3, 4.
Every Oflense a Crime.—In Masonry every offense is a crime, because, in every violation of a Masonic law, there is not only sometimes an infringement of the rights of an individual, but always superinduced by this, " a breach and violation of public rights and duties," which affect the whole community of the Order.—Masonic Juris.—MACKEY, p. 499. O f i e n s e A g a i n s t t h e B o d y of Mason>-y.—See Const. Art. V I I I , Sec. 1,
and Notes.
160. Who May be Punished.—A Master Mason under sentence of suspension, as well as all other Master Masons, may be charged, tried and expelled, if found guilty. Entered Apprentices and Fellow Crafts may be
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charged, tried, and, if found guilty, punished in the same manner, and to the same extent, as Master Masons, subject only to the rule that accountability may and should be limited by the degree of light received. 161. Duties of Wardens.—The Senior Warden, who superintends the Craft during the hours of labor, shall report any Mason who may be guilty of an offense during the period of his superintendence. The Junior Warden, who superintends the Craft during the hours of refreshment, that is, during the period intervening the Communications, shall report any Mason who may be guilty of an offense during the period of his superintendence. 162. Charges and Specifications—Accuser.—The charge shall be made in writing, with specifications of the offense," over the signature of a Master Mason who is a member of the Lodge in which the charges are preferred, and given to the Master, who shall call upon his Lodge to act upon the charge, at a Stated Communication thereof, except as provided by law. 163. Charges and Specifications—Form.—The caption of a charge shall be substantially: "Charges and Specifications against Brother A. B., a Member of Lodge No " The formal part of the charge shall be: "Charge ." If more than one offense be alleged and different in nature, the charges shall be numbered: "Charge I ," "Charge 11... ," and so on to the last. The formal parts of a specification shall be as follows: "Specification. In this:" And it shall conclude, "Contrary to the precepts of Freemasonry." If there be more than one accusation under a charge, the specifications shall be numbered "Specification I. In this," and so on. 164. Charges and Specifications—Entertainment.—If the Lodge, by a majority vote of its members present, determine that the charges and specifications be enter-
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tained, the original accusation and a copy thereof, both of which shall be signed by the Master and attested by the Secretary under seal of the Lodge, shall be given in charge to the Grand Secretary, who shall, under the direction of the Grand Master, transmit the same to the Chairman of the Committee. 165. Lodge Becomes Accuser.—^When the Lodge votes to entertain the charges and specifications it immediately becomes the accuser and is responsible for the prosecution of the case. 166. Charges and Specifications—Summons.—The accused shall be served with a copy of the charges and specifications, together with a summons to appear at a time and place to be named in said summons, and make such answer to the charges and specifications as he may desire. The summons shall be served upon the accused, at least fourteen days before the return day thereof. Such appearance may be made in person before the Chairman, or by filing an answer in writing with such Chairman. 167. Service of Summons.—If the residence of the accused be unknown, the Committee may proceed to examine the charges and specifications ex parte; but if known and out of the State, a summons shall be sent him, by mail or otherwise, thirty days at least before the time appointed for his appearance. The service and the return thereof shall be according to regulations to be made by the Committee, and, when so made, shall be conclusive. 168. Jurisdiction for Discipline.—If the charge does not come within the provisions of Section 3 of Article VIII of the Constitution, or if it be presented to the Grand Lodge, such charge and specifications shall be given to the Grand Secretary, who shall, under the direction of the Grand Master, transmit the same to the Chairman of the Committee, and, if the Committee shall determine
120 BY-LAWS.
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that the charges require investigation, it shall thereafter' proceed in the same manner as above required. 169. Failure to Entertain Charges—Appeal.—A brother, aggrieved by the failure of a Lodge to entertain charges, may appeal to the Grand Master, who may, in his discretion, cause the charges to be transmitted to the Chairman of the Committee, and the Committee shall thereafter proceed in the same manner as above provided. 170. Place for Trial—Who May be Present—Testimony Reduced to Writing—Pledge of Witnesses.—The examination upon the charges and specifications shall be had at some convenient place and time to be designated by the Chairman of the Committee, of which due notice shall be given, and no visitors shall be admitted except as counsel or witnesses. Unless otherwise ordered by the Chairman, the testimony shall be taken by him, or any member designated by him, who shall reduce the same to writing, to be submitted to the Chairman. Witnesses, if Masons, shall testify on their honor as such. Other witnesses shall be pledged to tell the truth upon their obligations and honor as a man and as a citizen before their testimony is taken. 171. Written Evidence.—Evidence derivable from records and writings may be obtained by the production of the original, or any authorized copy, or by any copy certified by a proper officer of record. Oral testimony may be taken before the trial by a Commissioner, who shall be a Master Mason, to be appointed by the Chairman of the Committee, when it shall appear to be for the best interests of both parties as a matter of expediency or avoiding unnecessary expenses. 172. Counsel.:—Any brother duly authorized may appear as counsel in support of, or in opposition to, the charges during the taking of the testimony and in the argument of the cause.
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173. Record of Proceedings—Punishment—Mandate —Right of Appeal—Time for Sentence.—The Chairman of the Committee on Trials and Punishments shall keep a record of their proceedings and upon the completion of the trial the Committee shall make their findings of fact and conclusions of law and assess the punishment which may be either expulsion, suspension or reprimand, which said findings of fact and conclusions of law, together with a transcript of the evidence and the declaration of the penalty assessed, shall forthwith be transmitted to the Grand Secretary. Thereupon the Grand Secretary shall, by registered mail, send a mandate, under the seal of the Grand Lodge, to the Lodge that originally acquired penal jurisdiction over the brother, setting forth the decision of the Committee in the case and shall also send a copy of such mandate by registered mail to the last known address of the accused brother. The Lodge and the accused brother shall both have a right of appeal to the Grand Lodge at any time within thirty days fro'm the date of the mailing of the mandate by the Grand Secretary. If no application for a new trial is made, and if no appeal is taken from the decision of the Committee within the thirty days, the decision shall become final and the Master of the Lodge at the next Stated Communication after the expiration of the thirty days referred to, shall pronounce sentence as provided by the terms of the mandate sent by the Grand Secretary; such expulsion, suspension or reprimand becomes effective on the date the sentence is pronounced. In case of reprimand it shall be administered to the accused at the next Stated Communication. T i m e to Record Penalty.—In reporting an expulsion or suspension tlie Secretary will enter it as of the date the Master pronounced sentence.—COM. 1929.
REV.
174. Costs and Expenses for Trial.—As a part of their judgment in each case the Committee shall assess the necessary costs and expenses of the case, including their own, against either the Lodge or the accused as may in
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their judgment seem just and equitable: Provided, That the Lodge in which the charges shall have been preferred shall be liable for the collection of all costs: And, Provided Further, That said costs shall not include any per diem of the Committee. Neither an application for a new trial, nor an appeal to the Grand Lodge shall be considered until all assessed costs shall have been paid. 175. Application for New Trial.—After a trial has terminated, the accused found guilty, and the punishment determined, the accused, upon receiving the announcement of the result as provided herein, may, within ten days thereafter file with the Grand Master an applica'tion in writing for a new trial. If the accused file his application as herein provided sentence shall be suspended while the application for a new trial is under consideration by the Grand Master, and such application while under such consideration shall also toll the statute which provides thirty days' time in which appeal may be taken. The only grounds upon which a new trial may be ordered by the Grand Master are: (1) Accident or surprise against which ordinary prudence could not have guarded, and by reason of which the accused was prevented from having a fair trial; (2) newly-discovered evidence, not cumulative in its nature, material to the defense, and which the accused could not, by the exercise of ordinary diligence, have produced at the trial. The application shall be addressed to the Grand Master and shall set forth with particularity the facts upon which it is based. The unsupported statements of the accused shall not be sufficient, but he may attach to his application any testimony not used at the trial which he may deem competent and material, but such testimony shall be subscribed by the witnesses who may give the same, under the same pledge that they would be required to take at a trial before the Committee. A copy of such application and testimony shall be furnished to the Lodge by the accused. Within ten days after such
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application shall have been filed with the Grand Master, the accuser shall have the right to refute any statement made in such application, or in the testimony attached thereto, by copies of records or the testimony of witnesses given under a pledge as above set forth. If the Grand Master award a new trial, he shall so notify the Lodge and the accused, and the case shall then stand for trial at the convenience of the Committee on Trials and Punishments. If the Grand Master refuse a new trial, he shall notify the Lodge and the accused of such refusal. 176. Proceedings for Appeal.—If any party be. aggrieved by any ruling or proceeding, or by any finding or decision of the Committee on Trials and Punishments, he may appeal therefrom to the Grand Lodge within the time and in the manner following: At least ten days before the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge at which such appeal shall stand for hearing, as hereinafter provided, and within thirty days from the date of the mailing of the mandate by the Grand Secretary he shall file a notice in writing with the Grand Secretary that he appeals to the Grand Lodge from such a ruling, determination or decision. If such mandate shall have been mailed more than thirty days before the first day of the next Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge, such appeal shall stand for hearing at such Annual Communication; otherwise it shall stand for hearing at the next ensuing Annual Communication of said Grand Lodge. If the party aggrieved give notice of his intention to appeal, and within thirty days from the date of mailing the mandate file his notice of appeal with the Grand Secretary, the sentence shall be stayed until the appeal has been heard. Upon receiving notice of the appeal the Grand Secretary shall transmit the case and all records thereof to the Chairman of the Committee on Jurisprudence.
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177. Appeal—Action by Grand Lodge.—Upon appeal the Grand Lodge may affirm or reverse the case, mitigate or set aside the punishment, dismiss the appeal, or remand the action for a new trial or for further consideration. If the case be affirmed or the appeal dismissed, the decision remains in full force and the Master of the Lodge shall pronounce sentence at the first Stated Communication following the receipt of the notice from the Grand Secretary setting forth the decision of the Grand Lodge, and the punishment becomes effective from the date of such notice from the Grand Secretary. If the case be reversed, the reason therefor shall be briefly stated and the cause shall proceed as may be required by the Grand Lodge. If the Grand Lodge find the punishment to be inadequate or too severe, it shall proceed to fix the same, and sentence shall be pronounced in the same manner as is provided in this By-Law where the case is affirmed or the appeal dismissed. 178. Vacation of Judgment.—-At any time within three years from the date of fixing the punishment against a brother for an offense against the Body of Masonry, the accused may apply to the Grand Master for an order setting aside the judgment and permit him to plead to the charges and specifications upon which he was found guilty and sentenced. Such application shall not be granted by the Grand Master until it shall be made to appear: (1) That the accused had no actual notice or knowledge that such charges and specifications had been filed in such Lodge against him, before judgment nor until within six months next preceding the time of making such application; <2) that the accused has a valid defense to such charges and specifications upon the merits. If the Grand Master in his discretion allow such application, he shall order the judgment to be vacated and shall prescribe a .time within which t;he accused shall appear and plead to the charge, and thereafter the case shall proceed in the same manner, and subject to the same rules, as in other actions after plea.
DECISIONS OF ORAND MASTERS. APPROVED BY THE M . ' . W / . GRAND LODGE OP A/. F / . & A.'. M.-. OF KANSAS, AS MODIFIED AND R E M A I N I N G IN FORCE UNDER T H E C O N S T I T U T I O N OF 1885, AND THE B Y - L A W S , ADOPTED FEBRUARY 2 0 , 1929.
1. Expunction of Minutes.—A Lodge cannot expunge any portion of its minutes; it may alter or amend them to agree with the facts, but cannot expunge any part of the correct record.—SAQUI, 1862. 2. Public Installations.—Public installations are sanctioned by Masonic usage, but the Lodge should assemble in the Lodge room, or some adjoining apartment, open in due form, and proceed to the place of installation without calling off. There should be nothing like the ceremony of opening or closing, caUing off or calling on, in public.—ADAMS, 1867.
3. Dotage.—There is no precise age fixed to limit the qualifications of candidates for the Degrees of Masonry. The candidate must be in possession of the ordinary physical and mental faculties of perfect manhood. —ADAMS,
1868.
4. Report of Committee.—If a committee embody in its report any statement or opinion not germane to the subject before it, and not in accord with the By-Laws, and such report be formally adopted, the mere adoption of the report will not change the By-Law;—PRICE, 1872. 5. Official Notice.—A published copy of the Proceedings of the Grand Lodge, received by a Lodge, is official notice of the action of the Grand Lodge; or a cer-
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DECISIONS OP THE G R A N D M A S T E R S .
tified copy of its proceedings, or any part thereof, is official notice.—SHARP, 1876. 6. Reconsideration of Ballot.—It is not in order, at any subsequent meeting, to reconsider the ballot or vote by which any measure was either passed or rejected at a previous meeting.—^RusH, 1877. 7. Demand of Visitor.—It is not enjoined upon a visiting brother to demand an examination of the Charter of the Lodge he proposes to visit before he submits to an examination by a committee, and a failure to do so indicates nothing to a visitor's prejudice, while such demand often suggests .small learning and large pretensions.—BUCK, 1885.
8. Time for Examination.—An applicant for Advancement, as contemplated in Article VI, Section 7, of the Constitution, may be examined either at a Special or Stated Communication of the Lodge, as to his proficiency in the preceding Degree.—SHELDON, 1887. 9. Petition for Advancement.—A petition for Advancement is required in all cases where an application for Advancement is made to a Lodge other than the one which accepted the applicant's petition for the Mysteries of Masonry.—LAMB, 1889. 10. Territorial Jurisdiction of Lodges U.". D.*.—A Lodge U.". D.-. has the same rights of territorial jurisdiction as it would have were it a Chartered Lodge.— LAMB,
1889.
11. Subscription to Building Fund.—A subscription by a Mason, of stock or to a fund for the erection of a building for Masonic purposes, is a civil contract, which can be enforced only by the laws of the land; and any
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DECISIONS OP T H E GRAND MASTERS.
refusal or neglect to pay such subscription does not subject the subscriber to the disciplinary jurisdiction of any Lodge or association of Masons.—KENYON, 1890. 12. Dedication.—^Masonic halls leased for a term of years cannot be dedicated.—PosTLETHWAiTE, 1891. 13. Funeral Procession.—A Lodge may appear in the funeral procession of a brother when it is "not conducted by it or any other Masonic association, without obtaining a special dispensation.—POSTLETHWAITE, 1891. 14. Jurisdiction Over Material.—A Lodge loses jurisdiction over material as soon as it passes beyond the jurisdictional lines, with bona fide intent to locate elsewhere.—POSTLETHWAITE, 1891. 15. Effect of Destruction of Hall and Charter.—A, Lodge does not lose its territorial jurisdiction by reason of its Hall and Charter having been destroyed, even though the Lodge holds no Communications. It is the act of the Grand Lodge that creates a Lodge, and the Charter is only the external evidence of its existence. The Lodge still lives and retains all its rights until the Grand Lodge revokes its Charter.—^CALLAHAM, 1892. 16. Dues from Non-Affiliates.—A Lodge has no authority to collect dues from a non-affiliated Mason.—•• CALLAHAM, 1892.
I
17. Divulging Information Concerning Secret Ballot an Offense.—A rejected petitioner for the Mysteries of Masonry or for Advancement, or a candidate who ha,s been stopped from Advancement by written or oral objection, has no right to know by whom he has been denied that for which he petitioned. Any one conveying such information commits an offense against the Body of Masonry.—CALLAHAM, 1892.
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DECISIONS OF THE GRAND MASTERS.
18. Suspension Indefinite.—Suspension for any offense is always indefinite.—FULLER, 1893. 19. Examination in Open Lodge.—Before any candidate is advanced to the Second or Third Degree he must exhibit suitable proficiency in the preceding Degree in open Lodge.—FULLER, 1893. 20. Escort.—A Lodge cannot act as an escort to any other society in the performance of a public ceremony.—THOMPSON, 1894.
21. Waiver of Jurisdiction.—^A Lodge cannot waive jurisdiction over a person who is at the time, and has been for six months next preceding, an actual resident within its territorial jurisdiction, and for the year next preceding an actual resident of this Grand Jurisdiction, unless it shall have accepted him as a petitioner for the Mysteries of Masonry or for Advancement.—THOMPSON, 1894. 22. "Waiver of Jurisdiction.—A waiver of jurisdiction must be unconditional.—THOMPSON, 1894. 23. Avouchment Necessary.—A certificate under the seal of the Lodge, attested by the Secretary, that the person therein named is a member of such Lodge in good standing, is not of itself sufficient evidence of the fact to warrant a brother in imparting to him instructions in the esoteric work.—CLARK, 1895. 24. Non-Affiliate—Charity.—A Master Mason who is a non-affihate from choice can have no legitimate claim upon the charity fund of a Lodge.—CLARK, 1895. 25. Effect of Suspension.—A Lodge cannot rightfully conduct the funeral ceremony of a deceased Master Mason, who at the time of his death was under suspension, either for non-payment of dues or for unmasonic
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LODGE
OF KANSAS.
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DECISIONS OF T H E GRAND MASTERS.
conduct. The effect of such suspension is to deprive him of all the rights and privileges to which he was entitled prior to such suspension. Nor can a Mason, while under suspension, sit in a Lodge of Master Masons, or unite with the Craft in a Masonic procession.—-CLARK, 1895. 26. One Brother at a Time.—A Lodge cannot rightfully confer either the first or second section of the Third Degree on more than one brother at the same time.— CLARK,
1895.
27. Residence Defined.—To be an actual resident of a territorial jurisdiction of a Lodge, as that term is used in Section 2, Article VI, of the Constitution, is to have a fixed legal residence therein for the time prescribed in said Section 2; "actual residence," as applied to a petitioner for Degrees, being synonymous with "legal residence."—CLARK, 1895. 28. Acts of. the Profane.—A Lodge should not pass resolutions censuring the acts of any individual or organization, or take any Masonic notice of the acts of the profane.—MCCALL, 1896.
29. Pall-bearers.—While it is desirable, it is not absolutely necessary that the pall-bearers at a Masonic funeral be Masons.—COLEMAN, 1897. 30. Removal of Candidate.—Where a petitioner for the Mysteries of Masonry permanently removes from the jurisdiction of a Lodge before the Committee of Investigation makes its report, the Lodge loses jurisdiction of him, and should cause his petition and deposit to be returned.—COLEMAN, 1897.
31. Dispensation—Qualifications of Candidate.—The Grand Master possesses no prerogative to grant special dispensations for conferring the Degrees of Ancient Craft
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DECISIONS O F THE GBAND MASTEBS.
Masonry upon candidates not having the requisite qualifications.^—SHAVER, 1898.
32. Balloting—Method—Reconsideration.—When a ballot is taken upon the petition of a candidate for the Mysteries of Masonry, or of a brother for Advancement or Membership, and one negative ballot appears, the Master should, at once, without comment and without permitting any remarks, order a second ballot, when, if one or more negative ballots appear, the Master should declare the petitioner rejected. After such declaration of rejection, the Master should not reopen or retake the ballot, or entertain any proposition for its reconsideration, under any pretense whatsoever.—SHAVER, 1898. 33. Residence—^Candidate.—^No applicant can legally petition any Lodge in this Grand Jurisdiction for the Mysteries of Masonry unless he be at that time an actual —or a temporary—^resident within the territorial jurisdiction of said Lodge; the necessary period of such residence being determined by Article VL Section 2, of the Constitution.—^SHAVER, 1898. 34. Effect of Objection.—A petitioner for the Mysteries of Masonry, who has been accepted by a Lodge, but who has been prevented from receiving the degrees by the objection of a member, cannot petition and receive the degrees in another Lodge having concurrent territorial jurisdiction with such Lodge.—SHAVER, 1898. 35. Membership of Objector.—A brother possesses the right of objection to the reception of a petition for the Mysteries of Masonry, or for Advancement, or for Membership, or to the conferring of a degree upon an accepted candidate, only in the Lodge of which he is a member. He does not possess this right in another Lodge having concurrent territorial jurisdiction with his own Lodge.—SHAVER, 1898.
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131
DECISIONS OF T H E GRAND MASTERS.
36. Time for Objection.—An objection by a member to the conferring of a Degree upon an accepted candidate may be made even during the progress of the work of the -Degree at any time before the obligation, and if so made, effectually stops the further progress of the work of- the Degree upon said candidate at that communication.—SHAVER, 1898.
37. Work on Several Candidates.—The only part of the work of the degrees that can be conferred on more than one candidate at the same time is the second section, or Middle Chamber work, of the Fellow Craft Degree. If the same degree be conferred on several candidates the same day, the lectures and charge may be given to all at the same time.—WEBB, 1900. 38. Lodges Under Dispensation.—^A Lodge Under Dispensation cannot accept a petition for Advancement. —^HoiSINGTON, 1902. 39. Age of Candidate.—^A petitioner for the Mysteries must be twenty-one years old before he signs the petition.—HOISINGTON, 1902.
40. Sojourner.—An enlisted man in the United States army, stationed at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, and who is not legally a citizen of the State, can only be recognized as being a sojourner, and the only Lodge in this Grand Jurisdiction to which he can petition is Hancock Lodge No. 311, Fort Leavenworth.—FiTGH, 1905. 41. Work.—A Lodge cannot confer degrees in separate rooms at the same time.—^PETERS, 1906. 42. Objection to Advancement.-^The objection to the advancement of a brother must be made in open Lodge by the brother making the objection.—PETERS, 1906.
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GRAND
LODGE
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DECISIONS OF THE GRAND MASTERS.
43. Prohibiting Use of Cipher.—It is not proper for the officers of a Lodge to use the cipher ritual during the conferring of degrees.—BOND, 1907. 44. Jurisdiction of Lodges U.'. D.\—When letters of dispensation are issued to a new Lodge, and during the continuance of such letters, such Lodge U.". D.-. holds absolute territorial jurisdiction under the same rules and to the same extent as a chartered Lodge; but that upon the expiration of such letters, all power or rights under the same cease, and the territorial jurisdiction so held reverts to the chartered Lodges from which it was originally taken, and t h a t such chartered Lodges hold the same absolutely until the new Lodge is chartered and constituted; and that, as to a petitioner whose petition is received, referred, and who is elected by such a chartered Lodge after the expiration of such letters, and before the new Lodge is chartered and constituted, absolute and perpetual jurisdiction is vested in such chartered Lodge.—WASHBON, 1910. 45. Cannot AflBrm.—A man, to be made a Mason, must be obligated in exact conformity to the established ritual; that such obligation must be fortified by the belief of the candidate in Deity; that he cannot be permitted to affirm, but must take his obligations in the name of GOD.—^WASHBON, 1910. 46. Lectures Same Communication.—The lectures of the several degrees, being a part thereof, must be given during the communication at which the brother is obligated. If two or more candidates are obligated at the same communication, they can receive the lecture and charge together. The second section of the Second Degree is the only portion of the "work" which can be conferred upon more than one candidate at the same time.— SHARP,
1912.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
133
DECISIONS OF T H E GRAND MASTERS.
47. Instruction of Entered Apprentice.—An Entered Apprentice against whose advancement an objection has been interposed, is entitled to instruction in the First Degree, to pass his proficiency in the same and have it accepted, to attend communications, and generally to any right or privilege accorded any other Entered Apprentice.—SHARP, 1912. 48. Citizen and Resident.—A Lodge can receive the petition of a citizen of another Country who has been a resident of this State for one year and who is at the time, and has been for six months next preceding, ah actual resident within its territorial jurisdiction.—SHARP, 1912. 49. Lodge Funds.—The funds of a Lodge are to be used for Masonic purposes which as provided by Section 6, Article VIII of the Constitution includes the payment of any sum of money out of its treasury for the support of the poor, for the relief of the distressed or for any other purpose which shall tend to ameliorate the condition of the human family or an individual.—PAULEN, 1922. 50. Fees for Degrees.—Regardless of change in ByLaw raising or lowering the amount, the fee in effect on date petition is received by a Lodge shall govern, no matter when the degrees may be conferred.—STRAIN, 1925. 51. Haskell Institute—Jurisdiction.—A resident at, or on, the Haskell Institute Reservation can legally petition any Lodge located in the City of Lawrence, Kansas, unless he has other fixed legal residence, in which case, under Section 2, Article VI, of the Constitution, he can only petition a Lawrence Lodge as a Sojourner.—FOWLER, 1928.
APPENDIX. LANDMARKS—BASSEH NOTES.
LANDMARKS-BASSETT NOTES. LANDMARKS OF MASONRY. Sometimes called the "Body of Masonry." No man or body of men can make innovations in the Body of Masonry. * I. The modes of recognition. II. The division of symbolic Masonry into three degrees. III. The legend of the third degree. IV. The government of the Fraternity by a presiding officer called a Grand Master, who is elected from the body of the Craft. V. The prerogative of the Grand Master to preside over every assembly of the Craft, wheresoever and whensoever held. *NOTE:—The Landmarks are those ancient principles and practices which mark out and distinguish Freemasonry as such, and they are the source of Masonic Jurisprudence. They are either esoteric or exoteric. The esoteric Landmarks are practices which enter into the Ritual of the Order, and are essential to the existence of the Institution. This class embraces the unwritten Law of Masonry, to a knowledge of which the Ritual affords the surest guide. The exoteric Landmarks consist of the Ancient Charges and Regulations, Usages and Constitutions, adopted from time immemorial for the better government of the Craft. The very definition of Landmarks shows that an enumeration of them is scarcely possible. All we can know is that it is a law or a custom that has 'existed from time immemorial. If any universal usage exists, and has existed so long that its origin is unknown, it is a Landmark. It has been said that the Landmarks are the unwritten law of Masonry; but this is not correct: for Landmarks" are found in the Ancient Charges. Indeed, xhe only evidence that some customs are Landmarks, is the fact tha^ they are mentioned as such in the earliest publications in relation to Freemasonry.—Maine Masonic Text Book.—^DRUMMOND,
175.
GRAND
LODGE OF
KANSAS.
A N C I E N T LANDMARKS.
VI. The prerogative of the Grand Master to grant dispensations for conferring degrees at irregular times. VII. The prerogative of the Grand Master to grant dispensations for opening and holding Lodges. VIII. The prerogative of the Grand Master to make Masons at sight. IX. The necessity for Masons to congregate in Lodges. X. The government of every Lodge by a Master and two Wardens. XI. The necessity that every Lodge, when congregated, should be duly tiled. XII. The right of every Mason to be represented in all general meetings of the Craft, and to instruct his representatives. X I I I . The right of every Mason to appeal from the decision of his brethren in Lodge convened, to the Grand Lodge or General Assembly of Masons. The preservation of the ancient customs is a very considerable point in respect to manners. Since a corrupt people seldom perform any memorable actions, seldom establish societies, build cities, or enact laws; on the contrary, since most institutions are derived from people of sirhple or severe morals, to recall men to the ancient maxims is generally recalling them to virtue.-—Spirit of Lavs.—MONTESQUIEU. The goodness of a custom depends upon its having been used time out of mind; or in the solemnity of our legal phrase, time whereof the memory of man runneth not to the cotitrary. This it is that gives it weight and au'thority.—Commentaries.—BIJACKSTONE. With respect to the Landmarks of Masonry, some restrict them to the Obligations, Signs, Tokens and Words. Others include the Ceremonies of Initiation, Passing and Raising; and the Form. Dimensions and Supports; the Ground. Situation and Covering; the Ornaments, Furniture and Jewels of a Lodge, or their characteristic symbols. Some think that the Order has no Landmarks beyond its peculiar secrets.—Dictionary, Symbols of Masonry. •—OLIVER.
The writers on municipal law have made a division of all laws into un* written and written—the "leges non-scriptae" and "leges scriptae." Applj-ing these terms to the three foI;d division of masonic law—"Landmarks," "General Regulations" and "Local Regulations," we should say that the unwritten laws or customs of Masonry constitute its Landmarks, of the nature of which some di%'ersity of opinion exists; therefore the safest method is to restrict them to those ancient, and therefore universal customs of the Order, which gradually grew into operation as rules of action. The first requisite there-
GRAND
LODGE OF
KANSAS. ANCIENT LANDMARKS.
XIV. The right of every Mason to visit and sit in every regular Lodge. XV'. That no visitor, not known to some brother present as a Mason, can enter a Lodge without undergoing an examination. XVL That no Lodge can interfere in the business or labor of another Lodge. XVIL That every Freemason is amenable to the laws and regulations of the masonic jurisdiction in which he resides. XVIIL That every candidate for initiation must be a man, free born and of lawful age. 'XIX. That every Mason must believe in the existence of GOD as the Grand Architect of the Universe. XX. That every Mason must believe in a resurrection to a future life. fore^of a custom or rule of action to constitute it a Landmark is, that it must have e.xisted from "time whereof the memory of mail runneth not to the contrary." I t s antiquity is its essential element. Another peculiarity of these Landmarks is, they are unrepealable. The Landmarks, like ohe laws of the Modes and the iPersians, can suffer no change. Whao they were centuries ago, they still remain, and must so continue in force until Masonry itself shall cease to exist. I t is fortunate for the stability of Masonry, that Landmarks so unchangeable should exist-, they stand in the way of Innovations controlling and checking them, and if sometimes inadvertently violated, are ever bringing the reflective and conscientious Mason back again under their influence, and preserving that general uniformity of character and design which constitutes the true universality ot the Institution.—Masonic Jwisprudence.—MACKEY, 15, 17. NOTE:—There has been from time to time much discussion among masonic writers concerning the Landmarks of Masonry. Differences of opinion exist as to the subjects to which they relate, and it follows therefore that there is much diversity as to their proper division and number. If the Landmarks are merely self-evident truths, if they are based wholely on principles, or if they are based solely on the Divine will, as it has been revealed to the human family, then it may be conceded that the Landmarks, or all such customs and laws are unchangeable and can never be altered, or set aside. On the other hand if any one of the so-called Landmarks is merely an invention of the human mind, if it exists only by custom, though it may have existed so long " t h a t the memory of man runneth not to the contrary," though it may have been wisely conceived and found most beneficial and practicable in its application to Masonry, and though it may have been enacted by competent authority and at a period so remote, that no account of its origin is
GRAND LODGE OF
KANSAS.
A N C I E N T LANDMARKS.
XXI. That a book of the law of GOD must constitute an indispensable part of the furniture of every Lodge. XXII. That all men in the sight of GOD are equal, and meet in the Lodge on one common level. .XXIII. That Freemasonry is a secret society, in possession of secrets that cannot be divulged. XXIV. That Freemasonry consists of a speculative science founded on an operative art. XXV. That the Landmarks of Masonry can never be changed. to be found in the records of history, who shall say that because both the enactors and the time of ics enaciment have passed away from the record, and because it is of higher antiquity than memory or history can reach, that it shall stand forever as a rule of action? Would not such a declaration be a confession of the unwisdom of the age in which we live or of the generacions which are to follow us? I t may be perhaps sufficient to add, that the foregoing twenty-five articles are taken from Dr. MACKEY'.^ standard work on Masonic Jurisprudence, to which the student is referred, and in which on pages 17-39 will be found an interpretation or explanation of each. These articles were compiled by Dr. MACKEY more than thirty years ago but how long previous to that time is not ascertained, and although he has during his period been recognized as an eminent authority on masonic law, yet, on investigation it will appear, that some of these articles are not only not recognized as Landmarks but some are not even acknowledged as rules of action. Whatever else may be said, this rule none will dispute, " A Landmark of Masonry must be co-extensive with Masonry in Universality."
GRAND
LODGE OF
KANSAS. ANCIENT LANDMARKS.
LANDMARKS OF MASONRY. These Moral Rules within which and up to which the Masonic Work is performed. * I. The laws of the masonic Institution, being ancient and universal, are unchangeable, and these laws are im-. perative upon all Masons. II. The fundamental principles of Masonry are piety, morality, science, charity, self-discipline and secrecy: to which must be added equality among the workmen. III. The rule and limit of masonic law is the Moral Law, derived from the book of inspiration, called the Bible. The Civil Law, so far as it is in harmony with the Divine, is equally obligatory upon Masons. *The ordinary definition of Landmark,—"Any fixed object by which the limits of territory may be know and preserved." gives us the following suitable definition:, "Those fixed tenets by which the limits of Freemasonry may be known and preserved." In all the Grand Lodge Constitutions in the United States, the term Ancient Landmarks has reference primarily, to the rules and principles enunciated in the Ancient Charges and General Regulations. From these two ancient documents the foregoing Landmarks are derived.—Dictionary of Freemasonry.—MOKRIS, 179. NOTE:—The existence of Landmarks is recognized by all Grand Lodgesand are generally referred to as limitations on constitutional powers. ENGLAtiD;—Claims 'the inherent power of enacting laws and regulations for the government of the craft, and of altering, repealing, and abrogating them, always laking care that the ancient Landmarks of the Order be preserved." NORTH CAROLINA:—Claims power " t o superintend and regulate the general police of Masonry according to the ancient usages and customs of Masons, carefully regarding the old Landmarks, which are, on no account, to be removed or defaced." VIRGINIA:—Claims power " t o make local ordinances and new regulations, as well as to amend old ones, for their own particular benefit, and the good of Masonry in general; provided always that the ancient Landmarks be carefully preserved.' PENNSYLV.^NiA:—Claims " t h e power to enact laws and regulations for
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
A N C I E N T LANDMARKS.
IV. The masonic Lodge and the masonic Institution are interchangeable terms. V. The masonic qualifications have regard to the mental, moral and physical nature of man. VI. The rules for selecting material for the masonic work are exoteric; but the manner of making Masons, of dispensing charity, and exercising discipline are referable to the arcana of the masonic system. VII. The wages of masonic work are the gratitude of the Craft and the approval of God. VIII. Masonic promotion, private and official, is by grades. IX. The basis of official merit is personal merit alone. X. The head and ruler of the Lodge is the Master, duly elected by the membership. the government of the craft, to alter and repeal such laws and regulations, preserving the ancient Landmarks of the Order. ' MISSOURI:—Claims " t o exercise all. such powers and perform all such acts, as by custom are exercised and performed by Grand Lodges, within the ancient customs and Landmarks of the Fraternity." N E W HAMPSHIBE:—Claims "power to prescribe and require an uniform mode of working, but In no case to alter, deface, or remove the ancient and established Landmarks of Masonry." VERMONT:—Claims "power to establish an uniform mode of working throughout the state, sirictly adhering to the ancient Landmarks, usages and customs of Masonry, which are, on no account, to be removed or defaced." N E W JERSEY:—Claims "power to establish a uniform mode of working throughout the state, strictly adhering to the ancient Landmarks, usages and customs of Masonry, which are, oa no account, to be removed or defaced." RHODE ISLAND:—Claims "power to establish and preserve a uniform mode of work and lectures, under the sanction of the ancient Landmarks and customs of Masonry." ALABAMA :—Claims " power to prescribe the manner, and require a uniform mode of working, but in no case to alter, remove, or displace the ancient and established Landmarks of Masonry." K A N S A S : — " T h e comity of Grand Lodges require each to recognize, and give full faith and credit to the acts of every other, provided the Ancient Constitutions are not infringed, the General Regulations set aside, or the old Landmarks removed."
GRAND
LODGE OF
KANSAS. ANCIENT LANDMARKS.
XI. The medium of communication between the head and body is the Wardens, duly elected by the membership. XII. Obedience to the Master and Wardens, duly elected and installed, is imperative upon the membership. XIII. The Grand Master may have a Deputy. . NOTE :—^These quotations are sufBcient to illustrate that some of the Grand Lodges, recognize the Landmarks as liriaitations of " power to prescribe and preserve a uniform mode of working," while others recognize them as limitations of '* power to enact laws and prescribe regulations for the government of the Craft." On the other hand MASSACHUSETTS, MARYLAND, MICHIGAN, MISSISSIPPI and
some other Grand Lodges do not expressly, but do inferentially so limit their powers, while SOUTH CAROLINA declares "that all masonic power is derived from the Grand Lodge."
10
GRAND
LODGE OF
KANSAS.
A N C I E N T LANDMARKS.
LANDMARKS OF MASONRY. These Ancient Principles and Practices which are the source of Masonic Jurisprudence. * I. Belief in the existence of a Supreme Being, in some revelation of his will, in the resurrection of the body, and in the immortality of the soul. II. The obligations and modes of recognition, and the legend of the third degree. III. The inculcation of the moral virtues, of benevolence and of the doctrines of natural religion, by means of symbols derived from the Temple of King SOLOMON and its tradition, and from the usages and customs observed, and from the implements and materials used in its construction. IV. That Masons must obey the moral law, and the government of the country in which they live.
•Whatever is essential to the existence of Masonry as a system, and as an organized institution, such as now recognized by its initiates, is one of the elementary principles upon which the system is founded. These principles are axiomatic and fiindamental, and are properly called Landmarks, because they are the bounds set u p to mark out and distinguish the masonic domain from every other society. ShoiUd these be removed, Freemasonry, as an organized, living, cflBcient brotherhood, would cease to e.'cisi;. The principles inculcated by the Order have ever existed and must ever exist. They are emanations from GOD himself, and they are as unalterable and everlasting as the Supreme Being. The life of the institution is its principles, conjoined with its peculiar method of teaching and enforcing chem upon the hearts and affeccions of men. Masonry has invented no new principle, but it has discovered and appropriated a beautiful sysvem, in every way, mosi. wisely designed to preeminently distinguish its disciples from the rest of the world.—Masonic Law and Practice.—LOCKWOOD, 7, 8. What are the Ancient Landmarks of Masonry? We think they may be deflned as those characteristic marks or fixed principles by which, time out of
GRAND
LODGE OF KANSAS.
11
A N C I E N T LANDMARKS.
V. That the Grand Master is the Head of the Craft. VL That the Master is the Head of the Lodge. VIL That the Grand Lodge is the supreme governing body within its territorial jurisdiction. VIIL That every Lodge has an inherent right to be represented in Grand Lodge by its first three officers or their proxies. IX. That every Lodge has the power to make Masons and to administer its own private affairs. X. That every candidate must be a man, of lawful age, born of free parents, under no restraint of liberty, and hale and sound as a man ought to be. XI. That no candidate can be received except by unanimous ballot, after due notice of his application, and due inquiry as to his qualifications. XII. That the ballot is invariably secret. XIII. That all Masons, as such, are peers. XIV. That all Lodges are peers. XV. That all Grand Ledges are peers. XVI. That no person can be installed Master of a Lodge unless he be a Past Warden, except by dispensation of the Grand Master. inind Freemasonry has been known and preserved; which have distinguished it as Masonry, and which must forever remain inviolate and undisturbed.— Proc. G.:L.: Nevada, 1871, pg. Z93. NOTE:—When and where has it ever been required of the initiate that he should profess a "belie! in the resurrection of the body?" Though MACKEY may say—Masonic Jurisprudence, pg. 32—"The whole scope and design of the third degree is, to teach the resurrection from the dead, and if the doctrine of the resurrection was false, then would the ceremonies of the third degree be simply a farce," though HUTCHINSON who had profoundly studied its symboUsm, said—Spirit of Masonry, pg. 101—"That the Master Mason's order testifies our faith concerning the resurrection of the body," and though others as learned in the symbolism of the third degree, believing in this docurine, may find that it teaches such a resurrection: Yet there are many more, even among Masons professing Christianity, who see in this symbol that other resurrection where immortality has put off mortality, and "where the dls-
12
GRAND
LODGE OF
KANSAS.
A N C I E N T LANDMARKS.
XVII. That the obligations, means of recognition, and the forms and ceremonies observed in conferring degrees are secret. XVIII. That no innovation can be made upon the body of Masonry. XIX. That the Ancient Landmarks are the Supreme Law, and cannot be changed or abrogated. embodied spirit has soared aloft and winged its way to realms of light and life eternal." And this is not the only lesson which this symbol teaches, for it teaches the lesson of fidelity and stimulates the Mason to inflexibly maintain the trust reposed in him. It Is not intended by this note to deny or affirm the proposition declaratory of a resurrection of the body, nor is it intended here to express any belief upon t h e subject, but merely to assert that the proposition is not universally admitted, nor so universally admitted as to permit it to be stated as a Landmark of Masonry.
GRAND
LODGE OF KANSAS.
13
A N C I E N T LANDMARKS.
LANDMARKS OF MASONRY. Those fundamental principles of Masonry which no man or body of men can change or remove.* I. A belief in the existence of a Supreme Being, and in the immortality of the soul. II. That the Moral Law, which inculcates, among other things, charity and probity, industry and sobriety, is the rule and guide of every Mason. III. Respect for, and obedience to, the civil law of the country, and the masonic regulations of the jurisdiction where a Mason may reside. IV. That new-made Masons must be free-born, of lawful age, and hale and sound at the time of making. V. The modes of recognition, and generally, the rites and ceremonies of the three degrees of Ancient Craft Masonry. VI. That no appeal can be taken to the Lodge, from the decision of the Master, or the Warden occupying the chair in his absence. *We assume those principles of action to be Landmarlis which have existed from time immemorial, whether in the written or unwritten law; which are identified with the form and essence of the society; which, the great majority agree, cannot be changed, and wlilch every Mason is bound to maintain intact, under the most solemn and inviolable sanctions.—Principles of Masonic Jurisprudence.—SIMONS, 13. The Ancient Landmarl^s are those principles of masonic government and polity which are the only part of masonic law, or rule of government, that may never be altered or disturbed; and such of them, as are lawful to be written, are usually, but not wholly, engrafted in the written Constitutions and General Regulations.—Extract from the Constitution of the Grand Lodge of New York. Committee on Landmarks: TMs committee shall consist of three appointed members, who in connection with the R.'. W.-. Grand Master and
14 ANCIENT
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
LANDMARKS.
VII. T h a t no one can be the Master of a Wairanted Lodge till he has been installed and served one year as Warden. VIII. That when a man becomes a Mason, he not only acquires membership in the particular Lodge that admits him, but in a general sense, he becomes one of the whole masonic family; and hence he has a right to visit, masonically, every regular Lodge, except when such visit is likely to disturb the harmony or interrupt the working of the Lodge he proposes to visit. IX. The prerogative of the Grand Master to preside over every assembly of the Craft, within his jurisdiction, to make Masons at sight in a regular Lodge, and to grant dispensations for the formation of new Lodges. X. That no one can be made a Mason, save in a regular Lodge, duly convened, after petition, and acceptance by unanimous ballot, except when made at sight by the Grand Master. XL That the ballot for candidates is strictly and inviolably secret. XII. That a Lodge cannot try its Master. X I I I . That every Mason is amenable to the laws and regulations of the jurisdiction in which he resides, Deputy Grand Master, shall be a Standing Committee, to whom shall be referred all questions touching the Ancient Landmarks, customs and usages of the Order, and the Constitutions, Rules and Regulations of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.—Extract from the Constitution of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. , The term. Landmark, has been adopted by t h e Freemasons to indicate certain leading principles from which there can be no deviation. They are in number twentj-five.—Royal Alasonic Cyclopedia.—MACKENZIE, 438. N O T E : — A t the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Nevada r a committee was appointed to report a t the next Annual Communication on the subject of the Ancient Landmarks—See Proc. G.'. L.'. Nevada 1870, Pg. 163, and tills committee through a majority of its members, V.'. W.'. ROBERT H . TAYLOB as chairman, and R.'. W.: HORATIO S. MASON made
an exhaustive report, in which they presented a list of wliat they considered Landmarks of Masonry, fifty-one in number. V.: W.-. W. A. M. VAN BOK-
GRAND
LODGE OF KANSAS.
15
ANCIENT LANDMARKS.
even though he be a member of a particular Lodge in some other jurisdiction. XIV. The right of the Craft at large to be represented in Grand Lodge, and to instruct their representatives. XV. The general aim and form of the Society, as handed down to us by the fathers, to be by us preserved inviolate, and transmitted to our successors forever. KELEN the other member of the committee in a minority report rejected seventeen and reduced the number to thirty-four—See Proc. G.-. L.-. Nevada 1871, pp. 291-319—the consideration of the reports was deferred until the next Annual Communication. "When the reports were considered thirtyeight of the articles were adopted—See Proc. G.-. L.-. Nevada 1872, pg. 487. The subjects discussed in the report were ably presented but the conclusions arrived at will hardly be accepted by masonic students generally, nor will the thirty-eight articles adopted by the G.'. L.'. of Nevada be accepted, even substantially as Landmarl^s by the Grand Lodges of America or of the world. The reasons are many and obvious why they cannot all, and even many of them be accepted.
16
GRAND LODGE OF
KANSAS.
ANCIENT LANDMARKS.
T H E LANDMARKS OF MASONRY. These are the Foundations of Masonry upon which the structure was erected and is maintained. * I. Faith in GOD—the Great Architect of the Universe—Belief in the immortality of the soul—a future existence—and obedience to the moral law—the revealed will of the Author of all things. II. An Association of men inculcating BrotherlyLove, Relief and Truth; practicing Temperance, Fortitude, Prudence and Justice, and possessed and exercising a spirit of Charity towards all mankind. III. That no person can be admitted a member of the Association except he be a man, free born, of sound mind, of mature age, without bodily defect, without physical disability and living under the tongue of good report. •NOTE;—The Landmarlis of Masonry are those principles which existed at the inception of the Association, and upon which it was founded: they cannot be mere customs which have grown and developed, as the necessities of the Society called them Into existence for its government and regulations, even though such customs may have the merit of antiquity. Viewing Masonry originally as an Operative Art which has developed into a Speculative Science, the Landmarks may well be termed " T h e Foundations of Masonry" and considering Masonry in its two fold character it may not be a peculiarly difficult matter to determJne what its Foundations are. If any of the last three propositions was not necessary to the operative art, or if anyone was not necessary to the speculative science it should be noted that as Masonry holdi^ whatever has once attached to it, therefore whatever belonged to the former survived to the latter, and whatever was necessary to the latter for its complete development attached at the transition period.
GRAND
LODGE OF KANSAS.
17
T H E F I F T E E N AKTICLES.
THE
F I F T E E N ARTICLES;
Based upon the Ancient Writings, as they were confirmed to Albanus, in the year 290, by the Emperor Carausius. * 1. The Master must be steadfast, trusty and true; provide victuals for his men, and pay their wages punctually, 2. Every Master shall attend the Grand Lodge when duly summoned, unless he have a good and reasonable excuse. 3. No Master shall take an'Apprentice for less than seven years. 4. The son of a bondman shall not be admitted as an Apprentice, lest, when he is' introduced into the Lodge, any of the brethren should be offended. 5.
A candidate must be without blemish, and have
*The Freemasons of England have claimed ST. ALBAN as being intimately connected with the early history of the fraternity in their country. The following quotations are from an old manuscript: " S T . ALBAN loved Masons well, and cherished them much, * * * and hp got them a charter from th'6 King and his Council for to hold a General Council, and gave it to name Assembly. Thereat he was himself, and did help to make Masons, and gave them good charges."—Illuslralions of Masonry.—PKESTON. We have another tradition on the same subject: CARAUSIUS was made Emperor of the British Isles, and being a great lover of Art and Science, appointed ALBANUS Grand Master of Masons."—Encyc. Freemasonry.—MACKBY, 681. The English Stone-Masons, lilte their German brethren, wrote down their laws from time to time, in which perpetual reference can be traced to the constitutional laws of a similar date. The most ancient of the documents, as yet known to u s , is t h a t of the antiquarian, J. O. HALLIWELL, a non-Mason, which he found' in the British Museum under the form of an ancient parchment manuscript, in duodecimo, and, to quote the words of the discoverer, could not have been written later than the latter half of the fourteenth century. The document contains besides, its general title, 790 lines in old English verse. First comes (lines 1-86), the ancient legend, then, in two divisions, the laws, in fifteen articles, and fifteen additional resolutions.—-Hist. Freemasonry.—FINDEL, 30.
GRAND
LODGE OF
KANSAS.
T H E F I F T E E N ARTICLES.
the full and proper use of his limbs; for a maimed man can do the Craft no good. 6. The Master shall take especial care, in the admission of an Apprentice, that he do his lord no prejudice. 7. He shall harbor no thief, or thief's retainer, lest the Craft should come to shame. 8. If he unknowingly employ an imperfect man, he shall discharge him from the work when his inability is discovered. 9. No xvxasLer shall undertake a work that he is not able to finish to his Lord's profit and the credit of his Lodge. 10. A brother shall not supplant his Fellow in the work, unless he be incapable of doing it himself: for then he may lawfully finish it, that pleasure and profit may be the mutual result. 11. A Mason shall not, be obliged to work after the sun has set in the west. N O T E : — I t is not claimed here, that these Articles were enacted by the Assembly of Masons under ALBANUS as Grand Master, but it is reasonable to suppose that the Fraternity at t h a t time adopted, or at least possessed some written laws or regulations, and as it appears from authority that these are the most ancient bearing any impress of authenticity, they are believed to be the "Fifteen Artycules bought o n " by the Fraternity a t Yorlc in 926. THE F I F T E E N ARTICLES. 1. He must be '' stedefast, trusty and trwe'' and upright as a judge. 2. " M o s t ben a t the generate congregacyon," to know where it "schal be holde." 3. Take apprentices for seven years " H y s craft to lurne, that ys profytable." 4. " N o bondemon prentys make . . Chef yn the logge he were y-take." 5. " T h e prentes be of lawful blod," and "have hys lymes hole." 6. " To take of the Lord for hyse prentyse, also muche as hys felows." 7. "Schal no thef " accept, "lest hyt wolde turne the craft to schaihe." 8.' "Any mon of crafte, be not also perfyt, he may hym change." 9. " N o werke he undurtake, but he conne bothe hyt ende and make."
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS. THE FIFTEEN
19 ARTICLES.
12. Nor shall he decry the work of a brother or Fellow, but shall deal honestly and truly by him, under a penalty of not less than ten pounds. 13. The Master shall instruct his Apprentice faithfully, and make him a perfect workman. 14. He shall teach him all the secrets of his trade. 15. And shall guard him against the commission of perjury, and all other offences by which the Craft may be brought to shame. 10. brother.'' 11. 12. 13. 14. 15.
"Ther schal no mayster supplante other, but be as systur
and
He ought to be "bothe fayr and fre," and "techyt by his mychta." "Schal not hys felows werk deprave," but " h y t amende." His apprentice "he hym teche," in all the requisite particulars. So, " t h a t he, wlthynne hys terme, of hym dyvers poyntes may lurne." Finally, do nothing that "wolde turne the craft to schame." —Hist, of Freemasonry.—GOULD, i, 82.
20
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
T H E F I F T E E N POINTS.
THE F I F T E E N POINTS. Laws for the government of the Craft, said to have been made at the meeting in York, in the year 926.* 1. Every Mason shall cultivate brotherly love, and the love of GOD, and frequent Holy Church. 2. The workman shall labor diligently on workdays, that he may deserve his holidays. 3. Every Apprentice shall keep his Master's counsel, and not betray the secrets of his Lodge. 4. No man shall be false to the Craft, or entertain a prejudice against his Master- or Fellows. 5. Every workman shall receive his wages meekly, and without scruple; and should the Master think proper to dismiss him from the work, he shall have due notice of the same before H. XII. 6. If any dispute arise among the brethren, it shall be settled on a holiday, that the work be not neglected, and GOD'S law fulfilled. *Of King ATHELSTAN we are told that— " He sende aboute ynto the londe After alle the masonus of the crafte, A semble thenne he cowthe let make Of dyvers lordis, yn here state, Dukys, eriys, and barnes also, Knychthys, sqwyers, and mony mo. And the grete burges of that syte. They were ther alle yn here degre; Fyftene artyculus they ther sowchton. And fyftene poyntys ther they wrochton." —Hist, o! Freemasonry.—GOULD,
i, 81.
NOTE:—The Tradition of a General Assembly of Masons at York, sor»etimes referred to as " T h e York Legend," is mentioned in many of the old . manuscripts, and especially in the Cooke Manuscript, wherein the rise of the Art of Masonry in England is described.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
•
21
THE FIFTEEN POINTS.
7. No Mason shall debauch, or have carnal knowledge of the wife, daughter, or concubine of his Master or Fellows. 8. He shall be true to his Master, and a just mediator in all disputes and quarrels. 9. The Steward shall provide good cheer against the hour of refreshment, and each Fellow shall punctually defray his share of the reckoning, the Steward rendering a true and correct account. 10. If a Mason live amiss, or slander his brother, so as to bring the Craft to shame, he shall have no further maintenance among the brethren, but shall be summoned to the next Grand Lodge; and if he refuse to appear, he shall be expelled. 11. If a brother see his Fellow hewing a stone, and likely to spoil it by unskillful workmanship, he shall teach him to amend it, with fair words and brotherly speeches. 12. The General Assembly, or Grand Lodge, shall consist of Masters and Fellows, Lords, Knights and Squires, Mayor and Sheriff, to make new laws, and to confirm old ones when necessary.
THE F I F T E E N POINTS. 1. "Most love wel GOD, and holy churche, and his mayster and felows." 2. Work truly for "huyres apon werk and halydays." 3. Apprentices to keep "their mayster conwsel" in chamber and " y n logge." 4. " N o mon to hys craft be false," and apprentices to "have the same lawe." 5. Masons to accept their pay meelily from the master, and not to strive. G. But to seek in all ways " t h a t they stonde wel yn Goddes lawe." 7. Respect the chastity of his master's wife, and "his fellows concubyne." 8. Be a true mediator " T o his mayster and felows fre," and act fairly to all. 9. As steward to pay well-, and truly " T o mon or to wommon, whether he be."
22
•
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
T H E F I F T E E N POINTS.
13. Every brother shall swear fealty, and if he violate his oath, he shall not be succored or assisted by any of the Fraternity. 14. He shall make oath to keep secrets, to be steadfast and true to all the ordinances of the Grand Lodge, to the King and Holy Church, and to all the several Points herein specified. 15. And if any brother break his oath, he shall be committed to prison, and forfeit his goods and chattels to the King. 10. Disobedient masons dealt with by the Assembly, the Law, and forswear the craft. 11. Masons to help one another by instructing those deficient in knowledge and skill. 12. The decisions of the Assembly to be respected, or imprisonment may follow. 13. " H e schal swere never to be no thef," and never to succor any of "fals craft." 14. Be true to " h y s lyge Lord the Kynge," and be sworn to keep all these points. 15. And obey the Assembly on pain of having to forsake the craft, and be imprisoned.—Hist, of Freemasonry.—GOULD, i, 82, 83.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
23
FUNDAMENTAL LAWS.
FUNDAMENTAL LAWS. Accepted by the Fraternity of Masons, convened in General Assembly at York, in the year 926. * ARTICLE I.
Your first duty i s ' that you reverence GOD with sincerity, and submit to the laws of the Noachides, because these are the Divine Laws to which all the world should submit. For this reason you should also avoid following false doctrine and offending against GoD. ARTICLE II.
You should be faithful to your King, without treason, and obedient to constituted authority, without deception, wherever you may find yourself, to the end that high treason should be unknown to you; but if you should be apprized of it, you must immediately inform the King. *Gcn'l Hiil. Freematonry.—REBOLD, 350. The*'Constitution or Charter of York is not only the basis of the Britisli MasonlciCorporations, from the time of its promulgation to the separation of the lodges of Freemasons from the companionship of ordinary stone-dressers and masons, as the different ordinances published under the reigns of different kings, relating to the affairs of these corporations distinctly prove; but it become the model of the masonic corporations, which, subsequent uo its promulgation, were generally organized upon the Continent. The Charter of York also served as the basis of that constitution of modern Freemasonry which was adopted at London, in 1717, and altered but in those points necessary to make that Constitution correspond with the new object of the society, and the changes and developments wrought by the lapse of eight centuries in the condition of British law, custom and usage. This Constitution of the Grand Lodge of London has, in its turn, served as the model for the constitutions of all the Grand Lodges which have been formed since 1717 upon our globe, and it is only to be regretted that among this great number of lodges, there should be found so few who have had the courage and the masonic spirit to reform that part of the Constitution of the Grand Lodge of England which provides for the predomination of that body, and replace it by a form in harmony with the fundamental principles of the masonic institution.—Gen'l Hist, of Freemasonry.—REBOLD, 347, 348.
24
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
F U N D A M E N T A L LAWS.
ARTICLE III.
You should be serviceable to all men, and a faithful friend to the extent of your ability, without disquieting yourself as to what religion or opinion they shall hold or belong to. ARTICLE IV.
You should be above all, faithful among yourselves, instructing each other, and aiding each other, not calumniating One another, but doing to each other as you would have done to yourself; so that, according as a brother shall have failed in his engagement with his Fellow, you ought to help hira to repair his fault, in order that he may reform. ARTICLE V.
You should assist assiduously at the discussions and labors of your brethren in the lodge, and keep the secret of the signs from all who are not brethren. ARTICLE VI.
Each should guard himself against infidelity, seeing that without fidelity and probity the fraternity cannot Was there a n Assembly of Masons held In or about the year 926 at York, under the patronage or by the permission of King ATHELSTANE? * * The uninterrupted existence for several centuries of a tradition that such an Assembly was held, requires that those who deny it should furnish some more satisfactory reason for their opinion than has yet been produced. "Incredulity," says VoLTAiR, " i s the foundation of history." But it must be confessed that while an excess of credulity often mistakes fable for reality, an obstinacy of incredulity as frequently leads to the rejection of truth as fiction. The Rev. Mr. WOODFORD, in an essay on The Connection of York with, the History of Freemasonry in England, inserted in HOGHAN'S Unpublished Records of the Craft, has critically discussed this subject, and comes to this conclusion: " I see no reason, therefore, to reject so old a tradition, that under ATHEI^ STANE the Operative Masons obtained his patronage, and met in General Assembly." * * * Are the Constitutions which were adopted by that General Assembly now extant? I t is not to be doubted, that if a General Assembly was held, it must have adopted Constitutions or regulations for the government of the Craft. Such would mainly be the object of the meeting. But there is no sufficient evidence that the Regulations now called the "York Constitutions," or the "Gothic Constitutions," are those that were adopted
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
25
F U N D A M E N T A L LAWS.
exist, and a good reputation is a valuable property. Also constantly hold to the interests of the Master whom you may serve, and honestly finish your labor. ARTICLE VII.
You should always pay honorably that which you owe, and, in general, do nothing that will injure the good reputation of the Fraternity. ARTICLE VIII.
Furthermore, no Master ought to undertake a work which he may be unable to perform, for, by doing so, he puts his Fellows to shame. Masters, however, ought to demand that a sufficient salary be paid them, so that they can live and pay their fellow workmen. ARTICLE IX.
Furthermore, no Master ought to supplant another, but leave him to finish the work that he has found to do, at least to the extent of his ability. n 926. I t is more probable that the original document and all genuine copies of it are lost, and that it formed the type from which all the more modern manuscript Constitutions have been formed.—Encyc. of Freemasonry.—• MACKBY, 904-5.
KRAUSE considered this document as genuine. The external proofs, he gives of its genuineness are: (a) the testimony of Bro. J. STONHOUSE of York; (b) ANDERSON, whose statement In the Book of Constitutions, agrees almost entirely with that in the York document; (c) PRESTON, who in his Illustrations of Masonry, declares that it still exists; (d) the speech which was given December 27th, 1726, by the Junior Grand Warden of the York Lodge, etc. In reference to the internal evidence of its genuineness, besides the exactness of the historical data, he points to the contents themselves.— " W i t h regard to its contents and form, they are both conceived according to the spirit of those times; it is exactly the language and mode of expression used In the tenth century. The evangelical tone of its commencement, the purity of its doctrines, free from all Papistical tendencies and especially from all dogmas, and the spirit of oriental Christianity which imbues it, leaves us without a doubt concerning the authors, as we find in the tenth century, under the names of the Culdees, Christian Mystics and teachers of church doctrines, in England, Scotland and Ireland, whose writings agree with the convictions and sentiments contained in the York Constitution. KLOSS on the other hand founded his doubts of the great antiquity of the KRAOSE document on these grounds; (a) that in the speech delivered in York, Decem ber 27th, 1726, several important points in the document are not once men
26
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ARTICLE X.
Furthermore, no Master ought to accept an Apprentice for less than seven years, and not until the expiration of that time ought he to be made a Mason, after the advice and consent of his Fellows. ARTICLE XI.
Furthermore, no Master or Fellow-Craftsman should accept indemnity for admitting any person as a Mason if he be not free-born, of good reputation^ of good capacity, and sound of limbs. ARTICLE XII.
Furthermore, no Fellow-Craftsman ought to blame another if he does not know better than him whom he may reprimand. tioned; (b) that a document bearing a much more modern date, has attached to it, viz., the document produced in the reign of KINO WILLIAM III.; (c) that in it are wanting those articles which are to be met with in all other ancient manuscripts, in accordance with the acts of Parliament of the period and m t h the spirit of the times, especially those articles relating to the observance of the marriage vow, and those warning against thieving, and the receiving of stolen goods; (d) that in it alone, opposed to all other manuscripts, are very clear intimations of the degrees of Apprentice and Master.—Hist. of Freemasonry.—FINDEL, 87. The so-called Charter of York consists, of thi-ee parts: an introduction like a prayer, a short history of Architecture, and the peculiar statutes which form the basis of the laws.—Hist, of Freemasonry.—FINDEL, 85. N O T E . — T h e introduction runs thus: " T h e Omnipotence of the Eternal GOD, of the Father and Creator of Heaven and Earth, the Wisdom of His Divine Word, and the co-operation of His Spirit sent amongst us, may be with our commencement; and grant us grace so to govern ourselves in this life as to obtain His approbation now, and, after our death. Life Eternal." Then follows the history of Architecture in two subdivisions; first, that of foreign countries; second, that of Britain, and then the Fundamental Laws given in the text. After the death of SAINT AI,BAN, the Kingdom of England was rent with internal dissensions and foreign invasions to such an extent that the beneficent rule of Masonry was suspended until ATHELSTANE became King. This worthy ruler succeeded, after infinite labor, in pacifying the turbulence of his subjects, and finally reduced the country to a condition of peace and qviietude. ATHELSTANE erected a number of important public edifices, and among these were many' abbeys and numerous towns. I t is particiUarly mentioned that the English King loved the Masons; but, according to assertion of our gossiping records, not nearly so much as his son EDWIN, "for he loved the
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F U N D A M E N T A L LAWS.
ARTICLE XIII.
Futhermore, each Master, when he is by the Architect (chief of the lodge), or Craftsman, when he is reprimanded by should listen respectfully, correct his work, to instructions.
reprimanded each Fellowthe Master, and conform
ARTICLE XIV.
Furthermore, all Masons should be obedient to their Chiefs and execute with good will that which may be ordered. ARTICLE XV.
Furthermore, all Masons should receive their Fellows coming from abroad, and who will give the signs; but Masons more than his father did." EDWIN seemed to have possessed a decided genius for geometry, and yielded to the attractions of masonic science, which he practiced with intense zeal. And in order to make lilmself more proficient in the details of this art, he gathered around him the Craft, and communed with them. Subsequently, as it would appear, from pure affection, he was initiated into their secret mysteries, and became an ardent Mason. By virtue,of his royal patronage, he procured for the Masons a charter and commission to hold once iii each year a General Assembly, in whatever locality they might be directed to iueet with in the realm.—Early Hist, and Antiquities of Freemasonry.—FOET, 165. The city of York, in the north of England, Is celebrated for its traditional connection with Masonry in that kingdom. No topic in the history of Freemasonry has so much engaged the attention of modern masonic scholars, or given occasion to more discussion, than the alleged facts of the existence of Masonry in the tenth century at the city of York, as a prominent point of the calling of a Congregation of the Craft there in the year 926, of the organization of a General Assembly and the adoption of a Constitution. During the whole of the last and the greater part of the present century the Fraternity, in general, have accepted all of these statements as genuine portions of authentic history; and the adversaries of the Order have, with the same want of discrimination, rejected them all as myths; while a few earnest seekers for truth have been at a loss to determine what part was historical and what part was legendary. Recently the discovery of many old manuscripts has directed the labors of such scholars as HUGHAN, WOODFORD, LYON, ^nd others to the critical examination of the early liistory of Masonry, and that of York has particularly engaged their attention. For a thorough comprehension of the true merits of this question, it will be necessary that the student should first acquaint himself with what was, until recently, the recognized theory as to the origin of Masonry at York, and then that he should examine the newer hypotheses advanced by the writers of the present day. In other words, he must read both the tradition and the history.—Encyc. Freemasonry.— MACKEY, 902.
28
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F U N D A M E N T A L LAWS.
they ought to be careful, and as they have been taught. They also ought to come to the relief of brethren who may need assistance, as soon as they shall learn, in manner as they have been taught, that such assistance is necessary, and the distance be within half a league. ARTICLE XVI.
Furthermore, no Master or Fellow-Craftsman shall admit into a Lodge another who has not been received a Mason, to learn the art of dressing stones, or allow him to dress; neither shall he show him how to use square or compass. These are the duties which he well and truly ought In SAINT ALBAN'S day the Icings of England were still accustomed to practice the heathenish rites of their ancient religion, and, although the ruling monarch appears to have detested the principles of the Christian creed, nevertheless, urged by the necessities of barbaric warfare, and desirous of having a more complete system uf fortification, the King induced SAINT ALBAN to wall the town, which subseauently bore the ecclesiastic's name, and strengthened its natural defenses. This worthy Saint achieved the honors of Knighthood, from whom is uncertain, and was the trusted steward of the royal household. As a member of the King's council, he governed the English Kingdom with all the powers of a prime minister, and also superintended all building operations, which were carried on to fortify various cities in the laud. SAINT ALBAN cherished the Masons with much zeal, and, in addition to other substantial tokens of his love for the fraternity, he gave them a practical evidence of such regard, by enhancing the price of labor and regulating their wages.—Hist, and Antiquities of Freemasonry.—FORT, 165. Extract from the Buchanan Manuscript: "And this same KINGE SOLOMON confirmed both charges and manners that his father had given to masons and soe was this worthy craft or science of Masonrie confirmed in the Countrie of Jerusalem and in many other Countries and Kingdoms glorious Craftsmen about full wide into divers countries some because of learning more knowledge and skill in the Craft and some to teach others and soe it befell that there was a curious mason whose name was MAMON GRECUS that had been att the building of SOLOMON'S Temple And hee came into France and there he taught the Craft of Masonrie to men in France. And there was a man in France named CAROLUS MAETILL came to this MAMON GRECUS aforesaid and learned of him the craft of Masonrie well hee tooke upon the charges And afterwards by the grace of GOD hee was elected Kiuge of France and where hee was in his estate hee tooke many Masons and helpe to make men masons that were none before and sett them on worke and gave them good wages and confirmed to them a Charter to hould theire Assemblie from yeare to yeare where the would and cherished the much and thus came the Craft of Masonrie into France. England stood att that time void from any charge of Masonrie uniill the time of ST. ALBONS and in his time the Kinge of England being a
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
29
F U N D A M E N T A L LAWS.
to observe. Those which shall yet be found good and useful in the future ought always to be written and published by the Chiefs of the Lodges, for all the brothers to learn the same, and to be sworn to their performance. ADDITIONAL ORDINANCE.
That a General Assembly shall be held every year, with the Grand Master at its head, to enforce these Regulations, and to make new laws, when it may be expedient to do so, at which all the brethren are competent to be present; and they must renew their OB. to keep these statutes and constitutions, which have been ordained by KING ATHELSTAN, and adopted by the pajan walled the Towne about that is now called Saint Albons and SAINT ALBONS was a worthy Knight and chiefe steward with the King and the governance of the Realms and alsoe of the making of the Towne walls."—Hist, of Freemasonry.—GOULD, vol. i, 96, 97. Extract from the Buchanan Manuscript: "Right soone after the decease of ST. ALBONS there came men of divers nations to warr against the Realme of England soe that the Rule of good Masonrie was destroyed until! the Time of KING ATHELSTON in his dayes hee was a worthy Kinge in England and brought this Land to rest and peace and builded many great buildings of Abbey's and castles and divers other great buildings And hee loved masons well. And hee had a sonn named EDWIN and hee loved masons much more then his father did and hee was a great practizer in Geometrie and came himselfe to comune and talke much with masons and to learn of them the Craft and afterwards for the love hee had to Masons and to the craft hee was made a mason himselfe. And hee obtained of his father the Kinge a Charter and a Commission to hould every year once an Assembly where they would within the Realme of England that they might correct faults errors and trespasses if that any there were comltted and done concerning the craft of Masonrie. And hee with other Masons held an Assemblie at Yorke and there hee juade Masons and gave them a Charge and comanded that rule to be houlden and kept ever after and hee made an ordinance that it should be renewed from Kinge to Kinge. And when the assemblie were gathered together hee caused a crie to be made after this manner that all old Masons and younge that had any writeings or understandings of the charges and manners that were made before in this Land or in any other that they should show them forth and there were found some in Greeke some in Latine and some in French and some in English and some in other l^anguages and the meaning of them were all one. And hee caused a booke to be made thereof: And how the Craft was found and hee comanded that it should be read or told when any free
30
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F U N D A M E N T A L , LAWS.
General Assembly at York. And this Assembly further directs that, in all ages to come, the existing General Assembly shall petition the reigning monarch to confer his sanction on their proceedings. mason should bee made for to give Mm Us charge. And from that day untill this time Masonrie hath bene much made on and kept and that from time to time as well as men might governe it. And furthermore att divers Assemblies there hath bene put and ordained certaine charges by the best advised Masters and Fellowes."—Hist, of Freemasonry.—GOULD, i, 97. 9S.
GRAND
LODGE OF KANSAS.
31
CONSTITUTION OF EDWARD I I I .
CONSTITUTION OF EDWARD III. Between the years 1327 and 1377 the Grand Master with his Wardens, at the head of the Grand Lodge, ordained the following Constitution: * 1. That for the future, at the making or admission of a brother, the Constitution and the Charges shall be read. 2. That Master Masons, or Masters of the Work, shall be examined whether they be able of cunning to serve their respective Lords, as well the highest as the lowest, to the honor and worship of the aforesaid art, and to the profit of their Lords; for they be their Lords that employ them for their travel. *ConstituHons of Freemasonry.—•2d ed., ANDEKSON, 71. ' NOTE:—This manuscript quoted by ANDERSON, also by PHESTON, as an old record referring to " t h e glorious reign of KING EDWARD I I I , " bears evidence that the Masons of that period found it necessary to submit to the censorship of constituted authorities, and in certain cases to deliver offenders to the "keepers of the peace." Had the King been as favorably disposed towards the Masons,as one might infer from the reference above quoted, it would hardly have re-" quired this submission, but that they were not in favor with the King may be impUed from the statutes which were enacted during his reign, for in the thirtieth year after his accession certain laws were enacted known as the Statute of Labourers, regulating their hire and wages, and four years afterwards it was by law declared " t h a t all alliances and covines (,coUusire agreements) of Masons and Carpenters and Congregations, Chapters, ordinances and oaths betwixt them made, shall be from henceforth void and wholly annulled." In this connection it may be appropriate to remark that the Statute of Labourers was several times renewed, and as repeatedly disobeyed by the Freemasons until the year 1425 when it was enacted "First, Whereas by the yearly Congregations and Confederacies made by the Masons in their General Chapters assembled, the good course and effect of the Statute of Labourers be openly violated and broken, in subversion of the law, and to the great damage of aU the Commons; our said Lord, the King mlling in this case to provide remedy, by the advice and assent aforesaid, and at the special request of the said Commons, hath ordained and estabUshed, that such Chapters and Congregations shall not be hereafter holden, and if any such be made, they that cause such Chapters and Congregations to be assembled and holden, if they thereof be convict, shall be judged for Felons; and that all the other Masons that come
32
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LODGE
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KANSAS.
C O N S T I T U T I O N OP EDWARD I I I .
3. That when the Master and Wardens meet in a Lodge, if need be, the Sheriff of the county, or the Mayor of the city, or the Alderman of the town, in which the Congregation is held, should be made Fellow and sociate to the Master, in help against the rebels, and for upbearing the rights of the realm.* 4. That Entered Prentices at their making were charged not to be thieves, or thieves maintainers; that they should travel honestly for their pay, and love their Fellows as themselves, and be true to the King of England, and to the realm, and to the Lodge. 5. That at such Congregation it shall be enquired, whether any Master or Fellow has broken any of the articles agreed to. And if the offender, being duly cited to appear, prove rebel, and will not attend, then the Lodge shall determine against him that he shall forswear (or renounce) his Masonry, and shall no more use this craft; the which, if he presume for to do, the Sheriff of the county shall prison him, and take all his goods into the King's hands, till his grace be granted him an issue ;t for this cause principally have these to such Chapters and Congregations, be punished by imprisonment of their bodies, and make fine and ransom at the King's will." This statute was repealed about the year 1.563, yet, it is said, " i t had not been enforced during the preceding one hundred, years, and the Masons never neglected their Lodges because of it, nor sought to have it repealed, because the worliing Masons who were free of the Lodge scorned to be guilty of such combinations and the Freemasons had no concern in trespasses against the .Statute of Labourers. " *This paragraph is to be found, substantially as here, in the Cooke Manuscript, and so much similarity exists between these Constitutions and the Cooke Manuscript that it is believed that both were derived from the same source.— Encyc. Freemasonry.—MACKEY, 971. tThe Halliwell Manuscript contains the following regulation for the punishment of disobedient members: " T h e sheref schal come hem sone to. And putte here bodyes yn deeppe prison For the trespass that they hav y-don. And take here goodes and here catteli Ynto the Kynges hand, every delle. And let hem dwelle here ful stylle. Tyl hyt be our lege Kinge's wylle."
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
33
CONSTITUTION OF E D W A R D III.
Congregations been ordained, that as well the lowest as the highest should be well and truly served in this art aforesaid, throughout all the Kingdom of England. NOTE.-—The so-called Constitutions of EDWARD III. can hardly be dignified by the name of "Constitution," for they appear merely to be additional regulations, arid it must be so inferred from the first clause, " T h a t for the future," etc. If these so-called Constitutions are authentic, or if the Cooke Alanuscript is authentic, that is, if either of these documents e.xisted as early as the fourteenth century, this fact alone bears witness that the masonic Fraternity was before then in possession of written Constitutions, Laws or Regulations, for it is not in consonance with human experience that regulations, such as these, should be formulated as the first or fimdamental laws for the government of any association of men; nor is it consistent with our knowledge of human action that any organized body, which should find it necessary to promulgate such regulations, would have existed without some law more fundamental in its character.
,34
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LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
REGULATIONS OF 1663.
REGULATIONS OF 1663. Adopted at a General Assembly and Feast held on Saint John the Evangelist's Day, 1663.* 1
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i i i d L nvj p c i o u i i , \jL w i i d i / u e g i e e o u e v w ,
.„««
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or accepted a Freemason, unless in a regular Lodge, whereof one to be a Master or a Warden, in that limit or division where such Lodge is kept, and another to be a Craftsman in the trade of Freemasonry. 2. - That no person shall hereafter be accepted a Freemason but such as are of able body, honest parent*In the reign of CHARLES I., chosen Grand Master, he held a the BvangeUst's day, 1663, when Masonic Jurisprudence.—MACKEY,
HENRY JERMYN, Earl of St. Albans, being General Assembly and Feast on S T . JOHN the following regulations were adopted.— 48.
NOTE.—Other authorities give this date, December 8, 1663. The Harleian Manuscript H9?., contains the New Articles, which are not in any other known manuscript.—Hist, of Freemasonry.—GOULD, i, 64. NOTE.—The original articles read as follows: 26. Noe person (of what degree soever) bee accepted a free mason, unless hee shall have a lodge of Ave free masons; at least, whereof one to bee a master, or warden, of that limitt, or devision, wherein such Lodge shal bee kept, and another of the trade of Free Masonry. 27. That no p'son shal bee accepted a Free Mason, but such as are of able body, honest parentage, good reputacon, and observers of the Law of the Land. 28. That noe p'son hereafter bee accepted free mason, nor shalbee admitted into any Lodge' or assembly untill hee hath brought a certificate of the time of adoption from the Lodge yt accepted him, unto the Master of that Limit, and devision, where such Lodge was kept, which sayd Master shall enrole the same in parchm't in a role to bee kept for that purpose, to give an acct of all such acceptions at every General Assembly. 29. That every person whoo now is Free Mason, shall bring to the Master a note of the time of his acception to the end the same may bee enroll'd in such priority of place of the p'son shall deserve, and to ye end the whole company and fellows may the better know each other.
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LODGE OF KANSAS.
35
R E G U L A T I O N S O F 1663.
age, good reputation, and an observer of the laws of the land. 3. That no person hereafter who shall be accepted a Freemason, shall be admitted into any Lodge or Assembly, until he has brought a certificate of the time and place of his acceptation from the Lodge that accepted him, unto the Master of that limit or division where such Lodge is kept; and the said Master shall enroll the same in a roll of parchment, to be kept for that purpose, and shall give an account of all such acceptations at every General Assembly. 4. That every person who is now a Freemason, shall bring to the Master a note of the time of his acceptation, to the end that the same may be enrolled in such priority of place as the brother deserves; and that the whole company and Fellows may the better know each other. 5. That for the future the said Fraternity of Freemasons shall be regulated and governed by one Grand 30. That for the future the sayd Society, Company, and fraternity of Free Masons, shalbee regulated and governed by one Master, and Assembly, and Wardens, as ye said Company shall think fit to choose, at every yearely generaU assembly. NOTE.—The Articles are numbered in the manuscript, 26 to 31, and include those here numbered 1 to 5. The last Article, numbered here 6, is not given in the manuscript cited, and is believed to have been added, not to the manuscript, but by some one of the earlier publishers of these Articles, and accepted, after a lapse of time, by others, who have been mere copyists. The last Article, or number 31, given in the manuscript, is as follows: " T h a t noe p'son shalbee accepted a Free Mason, or know the secrets "of the said Society, untill hee hath first taken the oath of s'ecresy hereafter "following: ' I , A. B., Doe, in the presence of Almighty GOD, and my Fel"lowes, and Brethren here present, promise and declare, that I will not at any "time hereafter, by any Act or circumstance whatsoever. Directly or In" directly, publish, discover, reveale, or make knowne any of the secrets, " priviledges, or Counsells, of the Fraternity or Fellowship of Free Masonry, "which at this time, or anytime hereafter', shalbee made knowne unto mee "soe helpe mee GOD, and the holy contents of this booke.' " I t is claimed by some writers that this is the oldest Oath of Secresy known to have been preserved in character. The manuscript from which it is taken is supposed to have been written about the year 1670.
36
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LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
R E G U L A T I O N S O F 1663.
Master, and as many Wardens as the said Society shall think fit to appoint at every annual General Assembly. 6. That no person shall be accepted,* unless he be twenty-one years old or more. *In the year 1686, PLOT says, in the most emphatic terms, that although the Freemasons were still a body of operative workmen, actually employed in the construction of public edifices, there was much zeal manifested among the people of the most exalted positions to be admitted as members of these bodies, and who were accordingly introduced into the mystic rites practiced in the lodges, and designated as "accepted Masons." The earliest use of these last words is to be found in ASHMOLE'S Memoirs, where he states that, in the year 1082, on tiie luth of March, he dined at the expense of the new "accepted Mason." This or analogous phraseology had already begun to prevail in a different form. In the year 1G70, according to the Harleian manuscript, the words "accepted a Free Mason," were used to distinguish a Mason so received and taken by the fraternity without professional apprenticeship, from one who was initiated because of his vocation, and this signiflcation is corroborated by Dr. PLOT.—Hist, and Aniiquilics nS Freemasonry.—FORT, 1.37.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
37 CHARGES OF 1686.
CHARGES OF 1686. Extracted from the Antiquity Manuscript in possession of the Lodge of Antiquity, at London. * 1. That ye shall be true men to GOD and the Holy Church, and to use no error or heresy by your understanding, and by wise men's teaching. 2. That ye shall be true liegemen to the King of England, without treason or any falsehood, and that ye know no treason but ye shall give knowledge thereof to the King, or to his Counsel; also, ye shall be true one to another, that is to say, every Mason of the Craft *Old Charges of British Freemasons.—HUGHAN, 64. The Antiquity Manusaipt is a roll of parchment nine feet long by eleven inches wide, stated to have been written in 1686, by ROBERT PADGETT, clearke to the Worshipful Society of the Freemasons of the City of London. I t is considered a document of extreme historic value.—Royal Masonic Cyclopedia.— MACKENZIE, 44.
These be all the charges and covenants that ought to be read at the Installment of Master.—Illustrations of Masonry.—PRESTON, book ii, sec. vi. PRESTON makes an unwarrantable addition by inserting " a t the installment of Master."—Hist, of Freemasonry.—GOULD, i, 68. .The words in italics are not to be found in the original manuscript, but were inserted by PRESTON.—Encyc. of Freemasonry.—MACKEY, 76. NOTE.—Notwithstanding the statement last cited, that PRESTON interpolated the words "Installment of Master," Bro. MACKEY has in his work on Masonic Jurisprudence continued to refer to these old charges as the "Ancient Installation Charges," and says: "They are said to have been used at the Installation of a Master of a Lodge." Shall we follow MACKEY, as a writer upon the science, philosophy and history of Masonry, or upon the jurisprudence of Masonry? Except the interpolation by PRESTON, there is no authority for the statement that these were Installation charges. The text contains nothing which would indicate that these charges were intended for an installation ceremony, or any part of such ceremony. On the other hand the entire charges would seem to be peculiarly applicable to the Instruction of one at the time of his admission as a Fellow or at the time of his advancement as a Master. These charges are substantially the same as these found in the Buchanan manuscript which conclude as follows: "These are the charges in general that belong to all Freemasons to keep both Masters
38
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
C H A B G E S O F 1686.
that is Mason allowed, ye shall do to him as ye would be done unto yourself. 3. And ye shall keep truly all the counsel that ought to be kept in the way of Masonhood, and all the counsel of the Lodge or of the Chamber. Also, that ye shall be no thief nor thieves to your knowledge free; and ye shall be true to the King, Lord or Master that ye serve, and truly to see and work for his advantage. 4. Ye shall call all Masons your Fellows, or your brethren, and no other names. 5. Ye shall not take your Fellow's wife in villany,
and Fellows," and from this it is the more apparent that these charges were not intended to be read a t the "Installment of Master" in the modern sense of the installation charge as .v part of the ceremony prescribed for the installation of the Master of a Lodge. Therefore we accept Bro. Dr. MACKEY, the scientist, philosopher and historian, rather than Bro. MACKEY, the Masonic jurist. The thirteenth article of the General Regulations adopted by the Grand Lodge in 1721, provided among other things, "Apprentices must be admitted Masters and Fellow Crafts only here, unless by dispensation." Bro. DRUMMOND says—Masonic Tezt Book, Z03—"In 1725 it was provided that a Master of a Lodge, with his Wardens and a competent number of the Lodge assembled in due form., can riiake Masters and Fellows a t discretion. Before that, the second and third degrees could be conferred only in Grand Lodge, or by dispensation of the Grand Master." The advancement to the degree of Master was in those days considered an honorable distinction and a preferment of a Mason by his brothers, and it is reasonable to suppose that his advancement "was attended with some ceremony. We do not know what the ceremony was called, it may have been called "Installment," and this may have been the nieaning of the term "Installment of Master," used by PRESTON, though he may not so understood it. PRESTON flourished three-quarters of a century or more after these charges are supposed to have been adopted. In his time the Masters of Lodges were inducted into office by an installation ceremony .and such a ceremony existed as early as 1723. In those days but little was published in relation to Masonry and the purpose of these charges, being handed down orally may have conveyed a wrong impression to the mind of the Mason of 1772, and it is no answer to this that the word install is derived from in, on, and stallum, a seat, for a tradition informs us that there were 3,300 Masters installed as overseers of the 80,000 Fellows and 70,000 Apprentices engaged in the building of the TempleTo the Antiquity MS. I attach the highest value of all. I t comes down to us with every concomitant of authority that can add weight to the evidence of an ancient writing. Other versions of the "Old Charges," of greater age, still remain in "the actual custody of Scottish Lodges. . These assist in carryingback the ancestry of the Society, but the Antiquity MS. is by far the most iinportant link between the present and the past, between Freemasonry
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
39 O H A K G E S O F 1686.
nor deflower his daughter or servant, nor put him to dis worship. ,6. Ye shall truly pay for your meat or drink, wheresoever ye go to table or board. Also, ye shall do no villany there, whereby the Craft or Science may be slandered. as we now have it, and its counterparo in the seventeenth century. The Lodge from whose custody it is produced—the oldest on the English roll— was one of the four who formed and established the Grand Lodge of England the mother of Grand Lodges, under whose fostering care, Freemasonry, shaking oft its operative trammels, became wholly speculative, and ceasing t o be insular, became universal, diffusing over the entire globe the moral brotherhood of the Craft.—Hist, of Freemasonry.—GOULD, ii, 210.
40
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
T H E A P P R E N T I C E CHARGE.
THE A P P R E N T I C E CHARGE. Extracted from the York Manuscript, No. J^, written about the year 1693.* 1. That he shall be true to GOD and the holy Church, the prince, his Mr. and dame whome he shall serve. 2. And that he shall not steale nor peke away his Mr. or dames goods, nor absent himselfe from their service, nor goe from them about his own pleasure by day or by night without their Licence. 3. And that he do not commit adultery or fornication in his Master's house with his wife, daughter, or servant, or any other. 4. And that he shall keepe councell in all things *Hist. of Freemasonry.—GOULD, i, S8. These Regulations are variously entitled: in the Gateshead Manuscript, A. D. 1730, the "Apprentices' Orders;" in the Wren Manuscript, A. D. 1852, the " F u t u r e Charges:" they are also found in the Harleian Manuscript, A. D. 1670; but are not there entitled.—Hist, of Freemasonry.—GOULD, i, 88. The 9th Regulation, in the Harleian Manuscript, above cited, is: "You shall not marry or contract • yourselfe to any woman during your apprenticeslilpp." 1. The charges are, that you shall bee true men to GOD and his holy church; that you use noe heresie nor errors in your understanding to distract mens teacheings. 2. And Alsoe that you bee true men to the Kinge without any treason or falsehood and that you shall know noe treason or falsehood but you shall amend it or else give notice thereof to the Kinge and Councell or other officers thereof. 3. And alsoe you shall be true each one to other that is to say to every Master and Fellow of the Craft of Masonrie that be free masons allowed and doe you to them as you would that they should doe to you. 4. And Alsoe that every free Mason Keepe councill truly of the secret and of the Craft and all other Councill that ought to be Kept by way of Masonrie. 5. And Alsoe that no Mason shall be a Theife or accessary to a theife as farr forth as you shall know.
GRAND
LODGE OF KANSAS.
41
T H E A P P R E N T I C E CHARGE.
spoken in Lodg or Chamber by any Masons, fellows, or freemasons. 5. And that he shall not hold any disobedient argument against any freemason, nor disclose any secret whereby any difference may arise amongst any Masons, or fellowes, or apprentices, but Reveiently to behave himselfe to all freemasons being sworne brethren to his Mr. 6. And not to use any carding, diceing, or any other unlawful games. 7. Nor haunt Taverns or alehouses there to waste any mans goods, without Licence of his said Mr. or some other freemason. 8. And that he shall not commit adultery in any mans house where he shall worke or be tabled. 6. And Alsoe you shall be true men to the Lord and Master you serve and truly see to his profit and advantage. 7. And Alsoe you shall call Masons your fellowes or brethren and no other foule name nor take your fellowes wife violently nor desire his daughter ungodly nor Ills servant in villanie. 8. And Alsoe that you truly pay for your table and for yoiu' meate and drinke where you goe to table. 9. And Alsoe you shall doe noe villanie in the house in which you table whereby you may be ashamed. These are the charges in generall that belong to all free masons to keepe both Masters and Fellows.—Extract from the Buchanan Manuscript. NOTE.—There is a peculiar instruction in the York Manuscript, No. 4, _preUminary to the Charges: " T h e one of the elders takeing the Booke, and that hee or shee that is to bee made mason, shall laytheir hands thereon, and the Charge shall be given." This clause has given rise to much discussion as to the possibility of women having been admitted and obligated as Freemasons. In view of the many errors, noticeable in the publication of some of these manuscripts, it is not strange that some copyist should have committed this patent error. Refer to the Buchanan Manuscript, {Hist, of Freemasonry.—GOUI-D, 1, 98) and this clause appears: " T h e manner of taking an oath ato the making of '' free Masons Tunc unus ex Seniorebus teneat librum ut ille vel illi ponant vel "ponant manus supra librum tunc precepta debeant legi."—here "ille vel illi, ' is translated " h e or they," but If one by error wrote "ille vel ilia" it would so far mislead the translator that he would read it " h e or she." We think it is an error merely and does not even tend to prove that women were obUgated as Freemasons. There Is no direct testimony as to the admission of women unto Masonic Lodges or Assembhes at any time, though they were sometimes allowed to iiar-
42
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
THE APPRENTICE CHARGE.
9. And that he shall not purloyn nor steale the goods of any p'son, nor willingly suffer harme .or shame or consent thereto, during his said apprentisshyp either to his Mr. or dame, or any other freemason. But to withstand the same to the utmost of his power, and thereof to informe his said Mr. or some other freemason, with all convenient speed that may bee. tially reap the benefit, as widows, of a deceased husband's business if they had aiFreemason to help them. The records of " M a r y ' s Chapel" Lodge, under date of 17th of April, 1683, furnish an instance of the legality of a womaTi occupylns the position of " d a m e " or "mistress" in a masonic sense, but from the minute of the Lodge it will be observed that it was to a very limited extent that the widows of Master Masons could benefit from the privilege. I suppose we miist accept the claim in question either as an error or a fancy of the translator or copyist.—Hist, of FreemasonTy.—GOULD i., 91.
GBANB
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
43
GENERAL CHARGES*
GENERAL CHARGES. Extracted from the Antiquity Manuscript in possession of the Lodge of Antiquity, at London. * 1. That no Mason take on him no lord's work, nor any other man's unless he know himself well able to perform the work, so that the Craft may have no slander. *Old Charges of British Freemasons.—HUGHAN, 65. The Ancient Charges at Makings.—Masonic Juris.—MACKEY, 50. NOTE.—The foregoing are quoted from a manuscript in the archives of the Lodge of Antiqviity. They are substantially the same as found in the Buchanan Manuscript prefaced as follows: "These bee the Charges singular for every Master and Fellowe as followeth," and are additional to the Charges of 1686.— Ante p. 41. These General Charges will conclude Excerpts of this character, except in these fooc-notes will be given some quotations peculiar in their character. The earliest records relating to the stone-cutters of Germany, allude to four Christian engravers, who had received the crown of martyrdom under DIOCLETIAN for refusing to perform certain work in the decoration of a heathen temple. They are denominated, in direct allusion to the sacred cause of their death, Quater Coronati, and an allusion .to this is incorporated in the Halliwell Manuscript, as follows: " Pray we now lo GOD Almyght, And to his swete modr MAEY bryght, Yat me mowe kepe yese articulus here, And yese pojTites well al yfere. As dede yese holy martyres fowre, Yat in yys craft were of gret honoure, Yey were as god masons as on erthe shul go, Gravers and image makers yey were also. For they were werkmen of ye beste. Ye Empor hade to heni gret luste. He wylned of hem a ymage to make, Yt mowt be worshiped for hys sake, Such mawmetys he hade yn hys dawe. To tiu:ne ye pepal from Crysti's lawe. But yey were .stedfast yn Cstis lay. And to their craft wtouten nay." The invocation in the Buchanan Manuscript is as follows: " O Lord GOD Father of Heaven with the wisdom of the glorious Sonn through the grace and goodness of the Holy Ghost three persons in one Godhead Bee with us att oui-
44
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
GENERAL CHARGES.
2. Also, that no Master take work but that he take reasonable pay for it; so that the lord may be truly served, and the Master to live honestly, and to pay his Fellows truly. And that no Master or Fellow supplant others of their work; that is to say, that if he hath taken a work, or else stand Master of any work, that he shall not put him out, unless he be unable of cunning to make and end of his work. And no Master nor Fellow shall take no Apprentice for less than seven years. And that the Apprentice be free born, and of limbs whole as a man ought to be, and no bastard. And that no Master or Fellow take no allowance to be made Mason without the assent of his Fellows, at the least six or seven. begining And give us grace soe to governe us in our Lives here that wee may come to his heavenly bliss that never shall have ending Amen. The frequent allusion to the Trinity, in the old manuscripts, as weU as to the Holy Church, in the charges therein recited, strongly indicate that the early Masons of England were not only Christians but Impressed it strongly on all t h a t it was the duty of Masons to not only profess Christianity, but to practice the Christian virtues, and this continued to be the rule of action until the adoption of the Cliarges of 1722. T H E MANUSCRIPT OF H E N R Y VI. Certayne Questyons, wyth Answers to the same, concernynge the Mystrey of Magonrye Wryttenne by the Hande of KINGE HENEYE, THE SIXTHE of the Name, and faythfuUye copyed by me, JOHAN LEYLANDE, Antiquarius, by the Commaunde of his Highnesse. They be as foUowethe; Question—What mote y t t be? Answer—Ytt beeth the skylle of nature, the understondynge of the myghte thai ys hereynne, and its sondrye werckynges; sonderlyche, the skylle of rectenyngs, of waightes, and metynges, and the treu manere of fagonnynge all thynges for manne's use, headlye, dwellynges, and buyldynges of alle kindes, and alle odher thynges that make gudde to manne. Q.—Where dyd y t t begynne? A.—Ytt dyd begynne with the flyrste menne yn the este, which were before the flyrste manne of the wcste, and comynge westlye, ytt bathe brought herwythe alle comfortes to the wylde and comfortlesse. Q.—Who did brynge y t t westlye? A.—The Venetians, whoo, beynge grate merchaundes, corned flryste ffromme the este ynn Venetia, Hor the commodytye of marchaundysynge beithe easce and weste, by the Redde and Myddlelonde sees. Q.-—Howe commede y t t yn Engelonde? A.—PETER GOWER, a Grecian, journeyedde flor kunnynge yn Egypte, and yn Syria, and yn everyclie land whereas the Venetians hadde plauntedde
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
45 GENERAL CHARGES.
3. That he that be made be able in all degrees; that is, free born, of a good kindred, true, and no bondsrnan, and that he have his right limbs as a man ought to have. 4. That a Master take no Apprentice without he have occupation to occupy two or three Fellows at the least. 5. That no Master or Fellow put away any lord's work to task that ought to be journey work. 6. That every Master give pay to his Fellows and servants as they may deserve, so that he be not defamed with false working. And that none slander another behind his back to make him lose his good name. 7. That no Fellow in the house or abroad, answer another ungodly or reproveably without a cause. Magonrye, and wynnage entraunce yn al lodges of Maconnes, he lerned muche, and retournedde and woned yn Grecia Magna wachsynge and becommynge a myghtye wyseacre, and gratelyche renowned, and her he framed a grate lodge at Groton and maked manye Maconnes, some whereofle dyd journeye yn Praunce, and maked manye Maconnes, wherefromme, yn processe of tyme, the arte passed yn Englelonde. Q.—Do the Maconnes descouer here artes \mto odhers? A.—PETER GOWER, whenne he journeyedde to lernne, was flyrste made,, and anonnetechedde; evenne so shulde all odhers beyn. recht. Natheless Maconnes hauethe alweys yn everyche tyme from tyme to tyme communicaiedde to mankynde soche of her secrettes as generallyche myghte be usefuUe; they haueth keped backe soche allein as shulde be harmfuUe yfl they commed yn euylle hanndes, Oder soche as he myghte be holpynge wythouten the techynges to be joynedde herwythe in the lodge, oder soche as do bynde the freres more stronglyche together, bey the proffyte, and commodytye commynge to the confrerie herfromme. Q.—Whatte artes haueth the Maconnes techedde mankynde? A.—The arts agricultura, architectura, astronomia, geometria, numeres, musica.poesie, kymistrye, governmente, and relygyonne. Q.—Howe commethe Maconnes more teachers than odher menne? A.—The hemselfe haueth allein in arte of fyndynge neue artes, whyche arte the ffyrste Maconnes receaued from GOBDE; by the whyche they fyndethe whatte artes hem plesethe, and the treu way of techynge the same. Whatte odher menne doethe flynde out, ys onelyche bey chaunce, and herefore but lytel I tro. 0.—Whatte dothe the Maconnes concele and hyde? A.—They concelethe the art of flyndynge neue artes and thatt ys for here own proffyte, and preise; they concelethe the art of kepynge secrettes, thatt see the worlde mayeth nothinge concele from them. They concelethe the art of wunderwerckynge, and of fore saj-inge thynges to comme, that so thay same artes may not be usedde of the wyckedde to an euylle end; they
46
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KAA^SAS.
GENEBAL CHARGES.
8. That every Master Mason do reverence to his elder; and that a Mason be no common player at the cards, dice or hazard; or at any other unlawful plays, through the which the science and craft may be dishonored and slandered. 9. That no Fellow go into the town by night, except he have a Fellow with him, who may bear him record that he was in an honest place. 10. That every Master and Fellow shall come to the assembly, if it be within ufLy miles of him, if he have any warning. And if he have trespassed against the craft, to abide the award of Masters and Fellows. 11. That every Master and Fellow that hath trespassed against the craft, shall stand to the correction of other Masters and Fellows to make him accord; and if they cannot accord, to go to the common law. 12. That a Master or Fellow make not a mould stone, square nor rule, to no lowen, nor let no lowen work within their Lodge nor without, to mould stone. also concele the arte of chatmges, the wey of wynnynge the facultye of Abrac, the skylle of becommynge gude and parfyghte wythouten the holpjTiges of fere and hope; and the universelle longage of Maeonnes. Q.—Wylle he teche me thay same artes? A.—Ye shalle be techedde yff ye be werthye, and able to lerne. Q,—Dothe alle Maeonnes kimne more then odher menne? A.—Not so. Thay onlyche haueth recht, and occasyonne more then odher menne to ktmne, butt many doeth fale yn capacity, and manye more doth want Industrye, thatt ys pernecessarye for the gaynynge all kunnynge. Q.—Are Maeonnes gudder menne then odhers? A.—Some Maeonnes are not so vertuous as some odher menne; but, yn the moste parte, they be more gude then thay would be yf thay war not Magonnes. Q.—Doth Maeonnes love eidher odher myghty lyas beeth sayde? A.—Yea verylyche, and yt may not odherwlse be; for gude menne, and ' true, kennynge eidher odher to be soche, doeth always love the more as thay be more gude. Here endethe the questyonnes and awnsweres. In the year 1748, a small pamphlet is said to have been pubUshed at Frankfort, in Germany, which, it is alleged, was written by the hand of HENKY
GRAJVD LODGE OF KANSAS.
47
GENERAL CHARGES.
13. That every Mason receive and cherish strange Fellows, when they come over the country, and set them on work, if they will work, as the manner is; that is to say, if the Mason have .any mould stone in his place, he shall give him a mould stone, and set him on work; and if he have none, the Mason shall refresh him with money unto the next Lodge. 14. That every Mason shall truly serve his Master for his pay. 15. That every Master shall truly make an end of his work, task or journey, whitherso it be. VI., of England, purporting to be the record of an official investigation Into the principles of Freemasonry held by that monarch, or under his direction. Great diversity of opinion obtains among modern masonic writers and authorities as to the authenticity of this document; the preponderance of authority, however, asserts its spuriousness. A careful examination of the pamphlet, republished by KKAUSE, convinces me that it is genuine and entitled to full credence. • Who the author was is uncertain, but it presents all the appearance, from the phraseology and antique orthography at least, of having been written as early as the middle of the fifteenth century. The traditions of the fraternity are also as accurately transmitted by this manuscript as by those which masonic historians have accepted to be genuine. Among other legends which it contains, is one t h a t Venetians brought Freemasonry from the East. How closely this corresponds with the actual transmission of architectural art to the West readily appears. Whoever wrote the document in question was profoundly learned in the secrets possessed by the craft.-—Hist, and Antiquities of Freemasonry.—FORT,
417.
48
GKAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
REGULATION OF 1703.
REGULATION OF 1703. Adopted by the Lodge held at the Goose and Gridiron during ' the latter part of the Grand Mastership of Sir Christopher Wren. * That the privileges of Masonry shall no longer be confined to Operative Masons, but be free to men of all professions, provided they are regularly approved and initiated into the Fraternity. *Thls Important decision met the determined opposition of the Grand Master, Sir CHRISTOPHER W E E N , an opposiiion he maintained until his death, in 1716, so that it was not until after this event that the four old lodges felt themselves at liberty to p u t into active operation the resolution of 1703.— Hist, of Freemasonry.—REBOLD. 56. SCENE.—The
Green Tree Tavern. and feeble.
London.
SIR CHRISTOPHER WREN old
M R . EDWARD STRONG and others.
M R . EDWARD STRONG. Assembled craftsmen: When We next assemble in our hall at Goose and Gridiron, I propose that thence the old restrictions be removed; That all good men, without regard to architectural Knowledge, be admitted to our brotherhood. SIR CHRISTOPHER WREN. In heaven's name, in justice And in mercy to the craft, talie not this fearful step Of progress! When DIONYSIUS bade farewell to men. And with his sister CERES, passed from earth, Kesigning all dominion of the Gods, the Tyrian Architect proclaimed that this henceforth should be the Home of artisans. Then let it not be said that here A line of near three thousand years have died. I've Toiled through many long and weary years, and stand Upon the verge of life prolonged in service. Then if this blow must fall upon the craft, let me but Sleep with this long line of fraters, ere the Order is dissolved. Farewell! Now old and tremulous, I've met you for The last time in a sublunary hall. My limbs have lost Their vigor; my eyes are dim; and on the crumbling Edge of time's extremity, my steps are faltering. Let not the last sad sound that falls upon my withered Ear be that slow, solemn toll, which speaks the knell of Architectural science. One last request in these last Words that I shall utter to the craft: let me, upon the Shores of vast eternity, one sacred greeting have m t h That long cherished brotherhood, before the architectiiral Cord is broken.—The Ekusinian Mysteries.—R. R. R E E S , P.'. G .'. M.'.,38.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
49
REGULATION OF 1717.
REGULATION OF 1717. Adopted by the Four Lodges in London on Saint John the Baptist's day.* That the privilege of assembling as Masons, which has been hitherto unlimited, shall be vested in certain Lodges or Assemblies of Masons, convened in certain places; and that every Lodge to be hereafter convened, except the four old Lodges at this time existing, shall be legally authorized to act by a warrant from the Grand Master for the time being, granted to certain individuals by petition, with the consent and approbation of the
.*A sufficient number of Masons met together within a certain district, with the consent of the sheritf or chief magistrate of the place, were empowered at this time to make masons.—Illustralions of Masonry, IHh Ed.—PRESTON. 210. NOTE:—From the foregoing statements of PRESTON it is not to be concluded that prior to the promulgation of this regulation no permanently organized Lodges existed in England, for it is well established, that no less than four Lodges had a permanent organization. These were numbered in the order of their respective claims to priority of organization. No. 1. Met at the Goose and Gridiron in St. Paul's church-yard until 1729, when it removed to the King's Arms; it was organized as early as 1691. It is now known as " Antiquity, No. 2." No. 2. Met at the Crown, Parker's Lane until 1723, when it removed to the Queen's Head, Turnstile Holborn; it was organized as early as 1712. It was struck off the roll in 1740. No. 3. Met at the Apple Tree Tavern in Charles Street, Covent Garden, im'til 1723, when it removed to the Queen's Head, Knave's Acre; it was organized about 1712. I t was afterwards known as "Fortitude and Old Cumberland, No. 12." No. 4. Met at the Rummer and Grapes Tavern, in Channel Row, Westminster, until 1723 or 4, when it removed to the Horn Tavern, in Palace Yard; it was organized prior to 1717. I t is now known as "Royal Somerset House and Inverness, No. 4. " These Four Old Lodges held their authority under what was styled "Immemorial Constitutions,!' that is their organizations existed without any written authority. These Lodges organized the Grand Lodge of England:
50
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
R E G U L A T I O N O F 1717.
Grand Lodge in communication; and that without such warrant, no Lodge. shall be hereafter deemed regular or constitutional. the account runs as follows: In February, 1717, at the Apple Tree Tavern, some old Brothers met and having voted the oldest Master Mason then present into the Chair, they constituted themselves a Grand Lodge, v^o tempore, and resolved to hold an Annual Assembly and Feast. Afterwards, on St. John the Baptist's day following, they met again and elected M B . ANTHONY SAYKE Grand Master of Masons.
GRAND
LODGE OF KANSAS.
51
REGULATIONS OF 1721.
REGULATIONS OF 1721. Compiled by R.'. W.: George Payne in 1720, when he was Grand Master, and approved by the Grand Lodge of England on Saint John the Baptist's day.* I. The Grand Master, or his Deputy, hath authority and right not only to be present in any true Lodge, but also to preside wherever he is, with the Master of the Lodge on his left hand, and to order his Grand Wardens to attend him, who are not to act in particular Lodges as Wardens but in his presence and at his command; because there the Grand Master may command the Wardens of that Lodge, or any other brethren he pleaseth, to attend and act as his Wardens pro tempore. II. The Master of a particular Lodge has the right and authority of congregating the members of his Lodge into a Chapter at pleasure, upon any emergency or occurrence, as well as to appoint the time and place of their usual forming; and in case of sickness, death, or necessary absence of the Master, the Senior Warden shall act as Master pro tempore, if no brother is present *These Regulations have, by commaud of our Right Worshipful Grand Master, MONTAGU, been compared with, and reduced to the ancient records and immemorial usages of the Fraternity, and digested Into this new method, with several proper explications, for the use of the Lodges, in and about London and Westminster.—Book of Constitutions, 1st Ed.—ANDERSON. NOTE :—The Minutes of the Grand Lodge of England, from its organization in 1717, to June 24, 1723, have not been preserved; hence its history to that time must be learned from other sources, and the accounts given by D R . ANDERSON in this book of Constitutions, 2d Ed., published in 1738, are probably the most authentic, and from that worli we glean the facts, as nearly as may be, relating to the adoption of these General Regulations. At the ASSEMBLY of the GRAND LODGE a t the Goose and Gridiron, June
52
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
R E G U L A T I O N S O F 1721.
who has been Master of that Lodge before; for in that case the absent Master's authority reverts to the last Master then present; though he cannot act until the said Senior Warden has once congregated the Lodge, or in his absence, the Junior Warden. III. The Master of each particular Lodge, or one. of the Wardens, or some other brother by his order, shall keep a book containing their By-Laws, the names of their members, with a list of all the Lodges in town, and the usual times and ''^laces of their forming and all their transactions that are proper to be written. IV. No Lodge shall make more than five new brethren a t one time, nor any man under the age of twentyfive, who must be also his own master; unless by a dispensation from the Grand Master or his Deputy. V. No man can be made or admitted a member of a particular Lodge without previous notice one month before given to the said Lodge, in order to make due inquiry into the reputation and capacity of the candidate, unless by the dispensation aforesaid. 24, 1718, "Brother SAYEK having gather'd the Votes, after Dinner proclaim'd aloud oiir Brother GEORGE PAYNE, Esq., Grand Master of Masons who being duly invested, install'd, congratulated and homaged, recommended the strict ' Observance of the Quarterly Communication; and desired any Brethren to bring to the Grand Lodge any old Writings and Records concerning Masons and Masonry in order to shew the Usages of ancient Times; And this Year several old Copies of the Gothic Constitutions were produced and collated." NOTE :—From the foregoing it might be inferred that the compilation of the General Regulations by Brother PAYNE, Grand Master, was concluded during the year 1718-19, but this is probably not the case, for the work of Brother PAYNE was called "Payne's Code of 1721," from which it may be reasonably concluded that they were not adopted until the latter year. The account continuing shows: At the ASSEMBLY of the GRAND LODGE at the Goose and Gridiron, .June
24, 1720, "Brother DESAGULIERS having gather'd the Votes, after Dinner proclaim'd aloud GEORGE PAYNE, Esq.; again Grand Master of Masons; who being duly invested, install'd, congratulated and homag'd, began the usual Demonstrations of Joy, Love and Harmony." N O T E ; — I t appears, however, that "Brother Payne's Code'' did not prove entirely satisfactory, for at the Quarterly Communication following the selection of the DUKE OF MONTAGU, Grand Master, the account further shows:
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
53
R E G U L A T I O N S O F 1721.
VI. But no man can be entered a brother in any particular Lodge, or admitted to be a member thereof, without the unanimous consent of all the members of that Lodge then present when the candidate is proposed, and their consent is formally asked by the Master; and they are to signify their consent or dissent in their own prudent way, either virtually or in|form, but with unanimity; nor is this inherent privilege subject to a dispensation, becuase the members of a particular Lodge are the best judges of it; and if a fractious member should •be imposed on them, it might spoil their harmony or hinder their freedom, or even break or disperse the Lodge; which ought to be avoided by all good and true brethren. VIL Every new brother at his making is decently to clothe the Lodge, that is, all the brethren present, and to deposit something for the relief of indigent and decayed brethren, as the candidate shall think fit to bestow, over and above the small allowance stated by the by-laws of that particular Lodge; which charity shall be lodged with the Master or Wardens, or the Cashier, if the members think fit to choose one. And the candidate shall also solemnly promise to submit to the Constitution, the Charges and Regulations, and to such other good usages as shall be intimated to him in time and place convenient. At the ASSEMBLY of the GHAND LODGE at King's
Arms,
September 29,
1721, with the former Grand Officers and those of 16 Lodges. "His Grace's Worship and the Lodge finding Fault with all the Copies of the old Gothic ConsUtiMons, order'd Brother .TAMES ANDERSON, A. M., to digest the same in a new and better Method." NOTE:—And afterwards at the next Quarlery Ccmmunication At the ASSEMBLY of the GRAND LODGE at King's
it appears:
Ar7ns, December 27,
1721, with former Grand Officers and those of 20 Lodges, "MONTAGU, Grand Master, at the Desire of the Lodge, appointed 14 learned Brothers to examine Brother ANDERSON'S Manuscript, and to make Report. This Communication was made very entertaining by the Lectures of some old Masons." NOTE:—At the following Quarterly Communication
the account is,
54
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
R E G U L A T I O N S O F 1721.
VIII. No set or number of brethren shall withdraw or separate themselves from the Lodge in which they were made brethren, or were afterwards admitted members, unless the Lodge becomes too numerous; nor even then, without a dispensation from the Grand Master or his Deputy; and when they are thus separated, they must either immediately join themselves to such other Lodge as they shall like best, with the unanimous consent of that other Lodge to.which they go (as above regulated), or else they must obtain the Grand Master's Warrant to join in forming a new Lodge. If any set or number of Masons shall take upon themselves to form a Lodge without the Grand Master's Warrant, the regular Lodges are not to countenance them, nor own them as fair brethren and duly formed, nor approve of their acts and deeds; but must treat them as rebels, until they humble themselves as the Grand Master shall in his prudence direct, and until he approve of them by his Warrant, which must be signified to the other Lodges, as the custom is when a new Lodge is to be registered in the list of Lodges. IX. But if any brother so far misbehaves himself as to render his Lodge uneasy, he shall be twice duly admonished by the Master or Wardens in a formed Lodge; and if he will not refrain his imprudence, and obediently submit to the advice of the brethren, and reform what gives them offense, he shall be dealt with according to the by-laws of that particular Lodge, or else in such a manner as the quarterly communication shall in their great prudence think fit; for which a new regulation may be afterwards made. At the ASSEMBLY of the GRAND LODGE at the Fountain Tavern, Strand, March 25, 1722, with former Grand Oflacers and those of 24 Lodges. " T h e said Committee of 14 reported that they had perused Brother ANDERSON'S Manuscript, viz., the History, Charges, Regulations, and Master's Song, and after some Amendments, had approv'd of it: Upon which the Lodge deslr'd the Grand Master to order it to be printed."
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
55
B E G U L A T I O N S O F 1721.
X. The majority of every particular Lodge, when congregated, shall have the privilege of giving instructions to their Master and Wardens before the assembling of the Grand Chapter, or Lodge, at the three quarterly communications hereafter mentioned, and of the annual Grand Lodge too; because their Masters and Wardens are their representatives, and are supposed to speak their mind. XL All particular Lodges are to observe the same usages as much as possible; in order to which, and for cultivating a good understanding among Freemasons, some members out of every Lodge shall be deputed to visit the other Lodges as often as shall be thought convenient. XIL The Grand Lodge consists of, and is formed by the Masters and Wardens of all the regular particular Lodges upon record, with the Grand Master a t their head, and his Deputy on his left hand, and the Grand Wardens in their proper places, and must have a quarterly communication about Michaelmas, Christmas and Ladyday, in some convenient place, as the Grand Master shall appoint, where no brother shall be present who is not a t that time a member thereof, without a dispensation: and while he stays, he shall not be allowed to vote, nor even NOTE:—At a subsequent Quarterly approved.
Communication
the work was again
At the GENERAL ASSEMBLY of the GRAND LODGE a t King's Arms, January
17, \72%, PHILIP WHARTON, Duke of Wharton, Grand Master of Masons, with the former Grand OfBcers and those of 25 Lodges. " G . Warden ANDERSON produced the new Book of Constitutions now in Print, which was again approv'd, with the Addition of the antient Manner of Constituting a Lodge." ..:ija,,c^j^'j jt^aNOTE :—The first edition of the Book of Constitutions, which is the most remarkable and the rarest, contains, on little more than 100 pages in quarto, besides the dedication written by Dr. DESAGULIEES, the following: 1. A brief history of Freemasonry from the creation of the world, 1. e., a history of Architecture taken from the Legend of the Guilds; 2. The fundamental laws called the old Charges: 3. The ancient General Regulations, compiled
56
GRAND
REGULATIONS
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
O F 1721.
give his opinion, without leave of the Grand Lodge asked and given, or unless it be duly asked by the said Lodge. All matters are to be determined in the Grand Lodge by a majority of votes, each member having one vote, and the Grand Master having two votes, unless the said Lodge leave any particular thing to the determination of the Grand Master for the sake of expedition. X I I L At the said quarterly communication, all matters t h a t concern the fraternity in general, or particular Lodges, or single brethren, arc quietly, sedately and maturely to be discoursed of and transacted: Apprentices must be admitted Masters and Fellow Craft only here, unless by a dispensation. Here also all differences that cannot be made up and accommodated privately, nor by a particular Lodge, are to be seriously considered and decided; and if any brother thinks himself aggrieved by the decision of this Board, he may appeal to the annual Grand Lodge next ensuing, and leave his appeal in writing with the Grand Master, or his Deputy, or the Grand Wardens. Here also the Master, or the Wardens of each particular Lodge shall bring and produce a list of such members as have been made, or even admitted in their particular Lodges since the last communication of the Grand Lodge: and there shall by Br. G. PAYNE, to which Is annexed 4, the approbation of the Book. come four masonic songs.
Lastly
N O T E : — T h e minutes of the Grand Lodge of England from June 24, 1723, have been preserved and the following is an extract: •'AT T H E GRAND LODGE H E L D AT MERCHANT TAILOR'S MONDAY, 24TH JUNE 1723."
HALL,
" P r e s e n t — " H i s Grace, the DTJKE OF WHARTON, G . Master. " T h e Reverend J. T. DESAGULIEKS, L L . D . , F . R . S., D . G . M . "JOSHTJA TiMSON, ,,r^, « ^ ^^ T . The Reverend Mr. JAMES ANDERSON.
\ „ 11T„_^„„„ ?• G. vVardens. J
"ORDERED, * * * The order of the 17th J a n : 172%, printed at the end of the Constitutions, page 91, for the publishing the said Constitutions was read, purporting. That they had been before Approved in Manuscript by the
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
57
R E G U L A T I O N S O F 1721.
be a book kept by the Grand Master, or his Deputy, or rather by some brother whom the Grand Lodge shall appoint for Secretary, wherein shall be recorded all the Lodges, with their usual times and places of forming, and the names of all the members of each Lodge, and all the affairs of the Grand Lodge that are proper to be written. They shall also consider of the most prudent and effectual methods of collecting and disposing of what money shall be given to, or lodged with them in charity, toward the relief only of any true brother fallen into poverty or decay, but of none else: but every particular Lodge shall dispose of their own charity for poor brethren according to their own by-laws, until it be agreed by all the Lodges (in a new regulation) to carry in the charity collected by them to the Grand Lodge at the quarterly or annual communication, in order to make a common stock of it, for the more handsome relief of poor brethren. They shall also appoint a Treasurer, a brother of good worldly substance, who shall be a member of the Grand Lodge by virtue of his office, and shall be always present, and have power to move to the Grand Lodge anything, especially what concerns his office. To him Grand Lodge, and were then (viz), 17tli January aforesaid, produced in Print and approved by the Society." " T H E N , The Question was moved, That the said General Regulations be confirmed, so far as they are consistent with the Ancient Rules of MASONRY." " T h e previous question was moved and put. Whether the words [so far as they are consistent with the Ancient Rules of Masonry] be part of. the Question. RESOLVED in the affirmative. But the main question was not put." "And the Question was moved, That it is not in the Power of any person, or Body of men, to make any Alteration, or Innovation in the Body of M A SONBY without the Consent first obtained of the Annual Grand Lodge." NOTE:—The last proposition above quoted is cited by Dr. ANDERSON in his Book of ConstUutions, 2d Ed., 17XS, as a New Regulation in lieu of original X X X I X , and at the next Quarterly Communication, held November 25, 1723, the follomng question was put, "Whether the Master and Wardens of the several Lodges have not power to regulate all things relating to Ma-
58
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
R E G U L A T I O N S O F 1721.
shall be committed all money raised for charity, or for any other use of the Grand Lodge, which he shall write down in a book, with the respective ends and uses for which the several sums are intended; and shall expend and disburse the same by such a certain order, signed, as the Grand Lodge shall afterward agree to in a new regulation; but he shall not vote in choosing a Grand Master or Wardens, though in every other transaction. As in like manner the Secretary shall be a member of the Grand Lodge by virtue of his office/ and vote in everything except in choosing a Grand Master or Wardens. The Treasurer and Secretary shall have each a clerk, who must be a brother and Fellow Craft, but never must be a member of the Grand Lodge, nor speak without being allowed or desired. The Grand Master, or his Deputy, shall always command the Treasurer and Secretary, with their clerks and books, in order to see how matters go on, and to know what is expedient to be done upon any emergent occasion. Another brother (who must be a Fellow Craft) should be appointed to look after the door of the Grand Lodge, but shall be no member of it. But these offices may be further explained by a new regulation, when the necessity and expediency of them may more appear than at present to the Fraternity. sonry at the Quarterly Meetings, one of which must be on St. John Baptist's Day? Agreed to without remark." And at the same communication it was resolved, " T h a t any G. Lodge duly met has a Power to amend or e.xplain any of the printed Regulations in the Book of Constitutions, while they break not in upon the antient Rules of the Fraternity. But that no Alteration shall be made in this printed Book of Constitutions without leave of the G. Lodge." NOTE :—Reference will now be made to some of the comments by modern writers upon these "Old Regulations." " T h e Old Regulations" were first compiled in 1720, approved by the Grand Lodge of England in 1721, and pubUshed in 1723 in "Anderson's Constitutions." They are therein distinguished from the "Ancient Charges" as being amendable or repealable by the Grand Lodge, wUle the Charges
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
59
R E G U L A T I O N S O F 1721.
XIV. If at any Grand Lodge, stated or occasional, quarterly or annual, the Grand Master and his Deputy should be both absent, then the present Mastei of a Lodge that has been the longest a Freemason shall take the chair and preside as Grand Master pro tempore, and shall be vested with all his power and honor for the time; provided there is no brother present that has been Grand Master formerly, or Deputy Grand Master; for the last Grand Master present, or else the last Deputy present, should always of right take place in the absence of the present Grand Master and his Deputy. XV. In the Grand Lodge none can act as Wardens but the Grand Wardens themselves, if present; and if absent, the Grand Master, or the person who presides in his place, shall order private Wardens to act as Grand Wardens pro tempore, whose places are to be supplied by two Fellow Craft of the same Lodge, called forth to act, or sent thither by the particular Master thereof; or if by him omitted, then they shall be called by the Grand Master, that so the Grand Lodge may be always complete. XVI. The Grand Wardens, or any .others, are first to advise with the Deputy about the affairs of the Lodge or of the brethren, and not to apply to the Grand Master without the knowledge of the Deputy, unless are given as unalterable and irrepealable law. These Regulations have been changed very materially by every Grand Lodge in the world, but they are considered as in force and binding upon the Craft, except so far as they have been changed or repealed in the particular jurisdiction.—Alasonic Text Book.— DRTJMMOND, 195. The resolution to empower " B r o . JAMES ANDERSON, A. M., to digest
the old Gothic Constitutions..in a new and better method" was agreed to by the Grand Lodge, held 29th September, 1721, and on the 27th December following "14 learned Brothers" were appointed to examine the manuscript, who reported favorably on 25th Alarch 1722, when the Grand Master was desired " t o order it to be printed." The "New Book of Constitutions" was submitted in print to the members, 17th January, 1723, and again approved, with the addition of " t h e ancient manner of Constituting a Lodge," from which we may infer that the work could not have appeared before 172?^. * * *
60
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
B E G U L A T I O N S O P 1721.
he refuse his concurrence in any certain necessary affair; in which case, or in case of any difference between the Deputy and the Grand Wardens, or other brethren, both parties are to go by concert to the Grand Master, who can easily decide the controversy and make up the difference by virtue of his great authority. The Grand Master should receive no intimation of business concerning Masonry but from his Deputy first, except in such certain cases as his Worship can well judge of; for if the application to the Grand Master be irregular, he can easily order the Grand Wardens, or any other brethren thus applying, to wait upon his Deputy, who is to prepare the business speedily, and to, lay it orderly before his Worship. XVII. No Grand. Master, Deputy Grand Master, Grand Wardens, Treasurer, Secretary, or whoever acts for them, or in their stead pro tempore, can at the same time be the Master or Warden of a particular Lodge: but as soon as any cf thsm has honorably discharged his Grand Office, he returns to that post or station in his particular Lodge from which he was called to officiate above. The "General Regulations" were first compiled by Mr. GEORGE PAYNE in 1720, and approved in 1721. They were also subjected to revision by Dr^ ANDERSON, but I apprehend It was the historical introduction and the arrangement of the "Charges of a Freemason,"- for which the latter was mainly responsible.—Hist. Freemasonry.—GOULD, i, 103, and Note. GEORGE PAYNE, the second Grand Master, was elected June 24th, 171S. He felt the Importance of Inquiring into the history of the Association, wliich had just stepped forth with renewed vigor and activity; therefore he earnestly desired that the Brethren would bring t o the Grand Lodge any old writings or records concerning Masons and Masonry, to shew the usages of ancient times.—Hist. Freemasonry.—FINDEL, 142. In compliment to the brethren of the four old Lodges, by whom the Grand Lodge was first formed, it was resolved, " T h a t every privilege which they collectively enjoyed, by virtue of their immemorial rights, they should still continue to enjoy; and that no law, rule, or regulation, to be hereafter made or passed in the Grand Lodge, should ever deprive them of such privilege, or encroach on any Landmark wliich was a t that time established as the standard of masonic government." This resolution being confirmed, the old
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
61
R E G U L A T I O N S O F 1721.
XVIII. If the Deputy Grand Master be sick, or necessarily absent, the Grand Master may choose any Fellow Craft he please to be his Deputy pro tempore; but he that is chosen Deputy at the Grand Lodge, and the Grand Wardens too, cannot be discharged without the cause fairly appear to the majority of the Grand. Lodge; and the Grand Master, if he is uneasy, may call a Grand Lodge on purpose to lay the cause before them, and to have their advice and concurrence; in which case the majority of the Grand Lodge, if they cannot reconcile the Master and his Deputy or his Wardens, are to concur in allowing the Master to discharge his said Deputy or his said Wardens, and to choose another Deputy immediately; and the said Grand Lodge shall choose other Wardens in that case, that harmony and peace may be preserved. XIX. If the Grand Master should abuse his power, and render himself unworthy of the obedience and subjection of the Lodges, he shall be treated in a way and manner to be agreed upon in a new regulation; because hitherto the ancient Fraternity have had no occasion for it, their former Grand Masters having all behaved themselves worthy of that honorable office. XX. The Grand Master, with his Deputy and Wardens, shall (at least once) go round and visit all the Lodges about town during his mastership. Masons in the metropolis, agreeably to the resolution of the brethren at large, vested all their inherent privileges, as individuals, in the four old Lodges, in the trust that they would never suffer the old Charges and ancient Landmarks to be infringed. The four old Lodges then agreed to extend their patronage to any Lodge which should hereafter be constituted by the Grand Lodge, according to the new regulations of the society; and that the Masters and Wardens of such new Lodges should be permitted to share with them all the privileges of the Grand Lodge, e.Kcept precedence of rank.—Digest Masonic Law.—CHASE,
11.
It may, however, be considered as an axiom of masonic law, that in every masonic jurisdiction, where any one of these Regulations has not been formally or implicitly repealed by a subsequent enactment of a new law, the
62
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
B E G U L A T I O N S O P 1721.
X X I . If the Grand Master die during his mastership, or by sickness, or by being beyond sea, or any other way should be rendered incapable of discharging his office, the Deputy, or in his absence the Senior Grand Warden, or in his absence the Junior, or in his absence any three present Masters of Lodges shall join to congregate the Grand Lodge immediately, to advise together upon that emergency, and to send two of their number to invite the last Grapd Master to resume his office, which now in course reverts to him; or if he refuse, then the next last, and so backward. But if no former Grand Master can be found, then the Deputy shall act as principal until another is chosen; or if there be no Deputy, then the oldest Master. X X I I . The brethren of all the Lodges in and about London and Westminster shall meet at an annual communication and feast, in some convenient place, on St. John Baptist's Day, or else on St. John Evangelist's Day, as the Grand Lodge shall think fit by a new regulation, having of late years met on St. John Baptist's Day; provided, the majority of the Masters and Wardens, with the Grand Master, his Deputy and Wardens, agree at their quarterly communications, three months before, that there shall be a feast and a general communication of all the brethren; for if either the Grand old Regulation will continue in force, and the Craft must be governed by its provisions. So in all doubtful questions of masonic law, recoiu-se must be had, in forming an opinion, first to the LandmarJts, and then to this code of Written Laws; and out of these two authorities, the legal dictum is to be established, because all the principles of law are embraced in these two authorities, the Ancient Landmariis and the Ancient Written Law; and hence they have been necessarily incorporated into this volume, as a fitting introduction, ' under the appropriate title of the Foundations of Masonic Law.—Masonic Juris.—MACKEY,
80.
• '•
These Constitutions are claimed to have embodied all the Regulations of the Craft up to that time, not only in England, but of "Lodges beyond sea;" and as they certainly contain all the law of a general nature that we have, we see no good reason for multiplying authorities, and our references will be made to them. We are the more inclined to this opinion, from tlie fact that
GRAND
LODGE OF KANSAS.
;
63
R E G U L A T I O N S O F 1721.
Master, or the majority of the particular Masters are against it, it must be dropped for that time. But whether there shall be a feast for all the brethren or not, yet the Grand Lodge must meet in some convenient place annually on St. John's Day, or if it be Sunday then on the next day, in order to choose every year a new Grand Master, Deputy, and Wardens. XXIII. If it be thought expedient, and the Grand Master with the majority of the Masters and Wardens, agree to hold a grand feast, according to the ancient laudable custom of Masons, then the Grand Warden shall have the care of preparing the tickets, sealed with the Grand Master's seal, of disposing of the tickets, of receiving the money for the tickets, of buying the materials of the feast, of finding out a proper and convenient place to feast in, and of every other thing that concerns the entertainment. But, that the work may not be too burdensome to the two Grand Wardens, and that all matters may be expeditiously and safely managed, the Grand Master, or his Deputy shall have power to nominate and appoint a certain number of Stewards, as his Worship shall think fit, to act in concert with the two Grand Wardens; all things relating to the feast being decided amongst them by a majority of voices, except the Grand Master or his Deputy interpose by a particular direction or appointment. they were collated immediately after the revival in 1717, by one to whom every facility for making them correct was extended, and before the increase of the Fraternity, under the new regime, led to the innovations which appear in subsequent editions. I t should be observed, too, that during the scbisra in England, LAWRENCE DERMOTT, who was Deputy Grand Master of the seceding, or Athol Grand Lodge, published a " Book of Constitutions," similar in its general features to the true version, but in which he took occasion to make alterations in some essential point.s, probably to suit the exigencies of his irregular Grand Lodge. Many of the warrants for the establishment of Lodges in this country issued from the Dermott or Athol Grand Lodge, which is doubtless the reason why so much of the spurious Constitutions is found in the jurisprudence of the several States.—Masonic Juris.—SI.MONS, 20.
64
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
R E G U L A T I O N S O F 1721.
XXIV. The Wardens and Stewards shall, in due time, wait upon the Grand Master, or his Deputy for directions and orders about the premises; but if his Worship and his Deputy are sick, or necessarily absent, they shall call together t h e ' Masters and Wardens of Lodges to meet on purpose for their advice and orders, or else they may take the matter wholly upon themselves, and do the best they can. ^ The Grand Wardens and the Stewards are to account for all the money they receive, or expend, to the Grand Lodge after dinner, or when the Grand Lodge shall think fit to receive their accounts. If the Grand Master pleases, he .may in due time summon all the Masters and Wardens of Lodges, to consult wi th them about ordering the grand feast, and about any emergency or accidental thing relating thereunto, that may require advice, or else to take it upon himself altogether. XXV. The Masters of Lodges shall p.a.oh flpnnint one experienced and discreet Fellow Craft of his Lodge, to compose a committee consisting of one from every Lodge, who shall meet to receive, in a convenient apartment, every person that brings a ticket and shall have power to discourse him, if they think fit, in order to admit him or debar him, as they shall see cause: Provided they send no man away before they have acquainted all the brethren within doors with the reasons thereof, to avoid mistakes; that so no true brother may be debarred, nor a false brother or mere pretender adGEORGE PAYNE, who on the 24th of June, 1720, amid the "customary expressions of mirth, love, and concord" was reelected, revised, arranged, and digested the decrees of the Grand Lodge hitherto issued, and formed the groundwork of that inestimable collection of the thirty-nine General Regir lations, which in 1721 were approved of by his successor, A.VDEHSON, however, was commissioned, " t o compare these with the ancient documents and very ancient customs of the Fraternity, to arrange and digest them, and to prepare them for the use of the Lodges in and around London and Westminster." These general Regulations, called "Ancient Regulations," in
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
65
R E G U L A T I O N S O F 1721.
mitted. This committee must meet very early on St. John's Day at the place, even before any persons come with tickets. XXVr. The Grand Master shall appoint two or more trusty brethren to be porters or door-keepers, who are also to be early at the place, for some good reasons, and who are to be at the command of the committee. XXVII. The Grand Wardens, or the Stewards, shall appoint beforehand such a number of brethren to serve at table as they think fit and proper for that work; and they may advise with the Masters and Wardens of Lodges about the most proper persons, if they please, or may take in such by their recommendation: for none are to serve that day but Free and Accepted Masons, that the communication may be free and harmonious. XXVIII. All the members of the Grand Lodge must be at the place long before dinner, with the Grand Master, or his Deputy at their head, who shall retire and form themselves. And this is done in order— 1. To receive any appeals duly lodged, as above regulated, that the appellant may be heard, and the affair miay be amicably decided before dinner, if possible; but if it cannot, it must be delayed till after the new Grand Master is elected; and if it cannot be decided after dinner, it may be delayed, and referred to a particular committee, that shall quietly adjust it, and make contradiction to tliose wiiicli were afterwards added, were made to suit tiie organization of the Grand Lodge. The single Lodges had to sacrifice some of their former independence, wliich signified the less, as at first the Grand Lodge was composed entirely of representatives from the Lodges. These Regulations were destined partly for the better arrangement of internal affairs, partly for the purpose of doing away with certain abuses which had crept in, and partly they had regard to the ancient customs whose revival had been considered as necessary.—Hist. Freemasonry.—PINDEL, 143.
66
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
REGULATIONS OF 1721
report to the next quarterly communication, that brotherly love may be preserved. 2. To prevent any difference or disgust which may be feared to arise that day, that no interruption may be given to the harmony and pleasure of the grand feast. 3. To consult about whatever concerns the decency and decorum of the Grand Assembly, and to prevent all indecency and ill manners, the assembly being promiscuous. 4. To receive and consider of any good motion, or . any momentous and important affair, that shall be brought from the particular Lodges by their representatives, the several Masters and Wardens. XXIX. After these things are discussed, the Grand Master and his Deputy, the Grand Wardens, or the Stewards, the Secretary, the Treasurer, the Clerks, and every other person shall withdraw and leave the Masters and Wardens of the particular Lodges alone, in order to consult amicably about electing a new Grand Master, or continuing the piesent, if they have not done it the day before; and if they are unanimous for continuing the present Grand Master, his Worship shall be called in, and humbly desired to do the Fraternity the honor of ruling them for the year ensuing, and after dinner it will be known whether he accepts of it or not; for it should not be discovered but by the election itself. NOTE;—From the foregoing citations, the weight of autliority appears to be that the Regulations of 1721^-frequently noted as the "Regulations of 1722, " but perhaps more frequently referred to as the "Old Regulations," —from the time of their original adoption, were subject to amendment by modification, Ijy the addition of new articles or by the repeal of old ones by any Grand Lodge, so far as tlie same related to tlie government of such Grand Lodge. This right of modification has been exercised by all General Assemblies of Masons of which any authentic account exists, or whose proceedings have been handed down to modern times by tradition.
GRAND
LODGE OF KANSAS. REGULATIONS
67 OF
1721.
XXX. Then the Masters and Wardens, and all the brethren, may converse promiscuously, or as they please to sort together, until the dinner is coming in, when every brother takes his seat at table. XXXI. Some time after dinner the Grand Lodge is formed, not in the retirement, but in the presence of all the brethren who yet are not members of it, and must not therefore speak until they are desired and allowed. XXXII. If the Grand Master of last year has consented with the Master and Wardens in private, before dinner to continue for the year ensuing, then one of the Grand Lodge, deputed for that purpose, shall represent to all the brethren his Worship's good government, etc., and, turning to him shall, in the name of the Grand Lodge, humbly request him to do the Fraternity the great honor (if nobly born, if not), the great kindness of continuing to be their Grand Master for the year ensuing. And his Worship declaring his consent by a bow or speech, as he pleases, the said deputed member of the Grand Lodge shall proclaim him Grand Master, and all the members of the Lodge shall salute him in due form. And all the brethren shall for a few minutes have leave to declare their satisfaction, pleasure and congratulation. NOTE:—The Regulations of 1721 were originally intended for the government of the then Grand Lodge of England, and theLodges in and about London and Westminster, and therein including only the four old Lodges and those subsequently constituted under the authority of the Grand Master or Grand Lodge. This is evidenced. First, by. the "Title" which precedes them in the first edition of Anderson's Constitutions. (.Note 1, Ante. pg. -51.) Second, by the action of the Grand Lodge at its communication held February 19, 1724, when it was ordered, " T h a t no Brother Irelonging to any Lodge within the Bills of Mortality be admitted to any Lodge as a visitor, unless personally known to some Brother of that Lodge where he visits, and that no Strange Brother, however skilled in Masonry, be admitted without taking the obligacon over again, unless he be introduced or vouched for by some Brother known to, and approved by, the Majority of the Lodge. And whereas some Masons have mett and formed a Lodge without the Grand M. Leave. Agreed: That no such persons be admitted into Regular Lodges." And, Third, by the
68
GRAND
REGULATIONS
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
O F 1721.
X X X I I I . But if either the Master and Wardens have not in private, this day before dinner, nor the day before desired the last Grand Master to continue in the Mastership another year, or if he when desired, has not consented, then the last Grand Master shall nominate •his successor for the year ensuing, who if unanimously approved by the Grand Lodge, and if there present, shall be proclaimed, saluted and congratulated the new Grand Master as above hinted, and immediately installed by the last Grand Master according to usage. XXXIV. But if that nomination is not unanimously approved, the new Grand Master shall be chosen immediately by ballot, every Master and Warden writing his man's name, and the last Grand Master writing his man's name too, and the man whose name the last Grand ' Master shall first take out, casually or by chance, shall be Grand Master for the year ensuing, and if present, he shall be proclaimed, saluted and congratulated, as above liiril*orl
Q n r l f r w f V m r i l - h i - r * c f o U c i r l V»-IT -i-Uo loctl- ^ ] * ^ J ^ ' ^
]\^aS^'^r
according to usage. XXXV. The last Grand Master thus continued, or the new Grand Master thus instailled, shall next nominate and appoint his Deputy Grand Master, either action of the Grand Lodge at its communication held April 28, 1724, when -the rule last cited, was modified as follows: " T h a t if any brethren shall meet Irregularly and make Masons at any place within ten miles of London, • the persons present at the making (The New Brethren excepted) shall not be admitted, even as visitors, into any Regular Lodge whatsoever, unless they come and make such submission to the Grand Mastr. and Grand Lodge as .they shall think fit to impose upon them." NOTE:—A critical reading of these "Old Regulations" will disclose the fact, that they are for the most part obsolete, not only in form but in substance; especially is this true of paragraphs xxii to xxxvi inclusive, and a comparison with the regulations of the Grand Lodge of England adopted in 1883, will show that even that Grand Lodge is so far wanting in veneration for the "Old Regulations" that it has not hesitated to depart materially from the original plan; a departure so marked that it is difficult to trace the genealogical descent.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS. BEGULATIONS
69 OF
1721.
the last or the new one, who shall be also declared, saluted and congratulated, as above hinted. The Grand Master shall also nominate the new Grand Wardens, and if unanimously approved by the Grand Lodge, shall be declared, saluted and congratulated, as above hinted, but if not, they shall be chosen by ballot, in the same way as the Grand Master; as the Wardens of private Lodges are also to be chosen by ballot in each Lodge, if the members thereof do not agree to their Master's nomination. XXXVI. But if the brother, whom the present Grand Master shall nominate for his successor, or whom the majority of the Grand Lodge shall happen to choose by ballot, is by sickness or other necessary occasion, absent from the grand feast, he cannot be proclaimed the new Grand Master, unless the old Grand Master, or som.e of the Masters and Wardens of the Grand Lodge can vouch, upon the honor of a brother, that the said person so nominated or chosen will readily accept of the said office; in which case the old Grand Master shall act as proxy, and shall nominate the Deputy and Wardens in his name, and in his name also receive the usual honors, homage and congratulation. XXXVIL Then the Grand Master shall allow any brother. Fellow Craft, or Apprentice to. speak, directing NOTE:—There are a few points of the original preserved and recognized in the laws of all the Grand Lodges, of which an illustration may be given. First; the right of the Grand Master (or in his absence of his Deputy), to preside over the Craft whenever he may be with them assembled; his right to assemble the Craft at such times and places, and for such purposes as he shall deem necessary for the interests of Masonry; bis right to authorize the formation of new Lodges, to make Masons at sight, and generally to govern the Fraternity during the recess of the Grand Lodge. Second; the right of succession to the office of Grand Master by the Deputy Grand Master, Grand .Senior Warden and Grand .lunior Warden when, by death, absence, sickness or other disability, the Grand Master is unable to perform his duties, and that the officer, so succeeding, possesses all the rights and powers of Grand Master for the time being.
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his discourse to his Worship; or to make any motion for the good of the Fraternity, which shall be either immediately considered and finished, or else referred to the consideration of the Grand Lodge at their next communication, stated or occasional. When that is over, XXXVIII. The Grand Master, or his Deputy, or some brother appointed by him, shall harangue all the brethren, and give them good advice; and lastly, after some other transactions, that can not be written in any language, the brethren may go av/ay or stay longer, as they please. X X X I X . Every annual Grand Lodge has an inherent power and authority to make new Regulations, or to alter these, for the. real benefit of this ancient Fraternity: Provided always, that the old Landmarks be carefully preserved, and that such alterations and new Regulations be proposed and agreed to at the third quarterly communication preceding the anmial grand feast; and that they be offered also to the perusal of all the brethren before dinner, in writing, even of the youngest Apprentice, the approbation and consent of the majority of all the brethren present being absolutely necessary to make the same binding and obligatory; which must, after dinner, and after the new Grand Master other illustrations might be given but these will suffice the present purpo.'se, which is to show that the "Old Regulations" are in accord in part with the present regulations ofthe Craft but these present regulations do not derive their origin from the Regulations of 1721, but from the "Old Regulations" which have existed for so long a period that no one can determine when they originated, or by whom they were first formulated; in other words, the Regulations of 1721 were adopted in part to meet the condition of Masonry at that time, and in part to provide some rules by which certain acts might be done, or certain ends accomplished in a formal manner but which might have been done or accomplished as well in some other manner. NOTE :—As a conclusion of the whole matter it may be stated that the Regulations here presented to the reader, notwithstanding their adoption by the supreme legislative authority of the Order at that time, may be altered, amended, or altogether repealed by the same supreme authority, or by any one of its peers
GRAND
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OF KANSAS.
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K E G U L A T I O N S O F 1721.
is installed, be solemnly desired; as it was desired and obtained for these Regulations, when proposed by the Grand Lodge, to about 150 brethren, on St. John Baptist's Day, 1721. —a doctrine which is explicitly set forth in the Thirty-ninth General Regulation. Accordingly, portions of this written law have, from time to time, been materially modified by different Grand Lodges, as will be evident upon comparison of these laws with the modern Constitutions of any Grand Jurisdiction.
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LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
CHARGES OF A FREEMASON.
CHARGES OF A FREEMASON. Extracted from the ancient records of Lodges beyond sea, and of those in England, Scotland and Ireland for the use of the Lodges in London. * I.
CONCERNING GOD AND RELIGION, j
A Mason is obliged, by his tenure, to obey the moral law; J and if he rightly understands the art, he will never be a stupid atheist nor an irreligious libertine.§ But though in ancient times Masons were charged in every country to be of the religion of that country or nation, whatever it was, it is now thought more expedient only to oblige them to that religion in which all men agree,! leaving their particular opinions to themselves; that is, to be good men and true, or men of honor and honesty, by whatever denominations or persuasions they may be distinguished; whereby Masonry becomes the center of *Tliese Charges have always been held in the highest veneration by the Fraternity, as embodying t h e most important points of the Ancient Written as well as the Unwritten Law of Masonry.—Masonic Juris.—MACKEY, 55. NOTES:—tSpeculatlve Masonry is founded on a belief in GOD and is indebted solely to the religious element which it contains for its origin and continued existence. I t teaches fundamental religious truths, but does not meddle with sectarian creeds and doctrines, and yet it does not restrain any individual member from a conscientious observance of his forms of worship. JBy his holding a Mason is obliged to observe the rules of the Society to the observance of which lie has pledged himself, of which the first is obedience to the moral law, and his tenure of membership, his right to hold his place in the Society is dependent upon his observance of this promise. §Masonry is often alluded to as an art, but here it refers to the principles upon which the Institution is founded, so if the Mason rightly understands these principles and believes in them he is bound to observe them. [The word atheist signifies a freethinker, for this was its meaning a t the time these Charges were written; and irreligious libertine signified a man, who, with a degree less of imbellef than the stupid atheist, denied the doctrines of divine revelation.] ||A belief in the Fatherhood of GOD and the brotherhood of man is that religion which is required of all who share the privileges of Masonry, and this is the religion in which all intelligent men agree.
GRAND
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CHARGES OF A FREEMASON.
union, and the means of conciliating true friendship among persons that must have remained at a perpetual distance. II. OF THE CIVIL MAGISTRATE, SUPREME AND SUBORDINATE.*
A Mason is a peaceable subject to the civil powers wherever he resides or works, and is never to be concerned in plots and conspiracies against the peace and welfare of the nation,! nor to behave himself undutifully to inferior magistrates; J for as Masonry hath always been injured by war, bloodshed, and confusion, so ancient kings and princes have been much disposed to encourage the craftsmen, because of their peaceableness and loyalty, whereby they practically answered the cavils of their adversaries, and promoted the honor of the fraternity, who ever flourish in times of peace. So that if a Brother should be a rebel against the state, he is not to be counteThe collection generally known as the "Ancient Charges" Is the one presented to the Grand Lodge of England in 1721, approved by it in 1722. and, published in 1723, in ANDERSON'S Constitutions.—Masonic Text Book.^-DsvMMOND, 1 7 7 . •
NOTES:—*Obedlence to the Civil Law is required of every Mason, for law is essential to human existence, so essential that men cannot live in conimunities without it, and until the time shall come when human laws shall be no more required for the protection of persons and property, all good citizens should aid in their enforcement. tThe violation of the law of the land is an offense against Masonry, and Masons will not be guilty of such violations. There is however, a distinction between acts which are malum in se and chose which are merely malum prohibitum, for an act which is wrong in itself is a violation of the Moral Law,, while an act which is .wrong merely because it is prohibited, does not necessarily, indicate a malevolent heart. t i n the earlier Mstory of the Institution, Masonry was more exclusive than it now is. Its purposes and practices were not so widely published then as now, and consequently not so well known. Plots and conspiracies were then more frequent and, at the time of the adoption of these Charges, it was necessary to declare specifically against them, and it is still wise to continue this declaration, for though infrequent they are none the less dishonorable and bring reproach upon all who engage in them; and hence, it was and still is a public duty, a duty which no peaceable subject or good citizen can afford to disregard, to see that the officers who are appointed to execute the laws of the country are at all times sustained in the proper exercise of their offices.
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LODGE
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KANSAS.
CHAKGES OF A FBEEMASON.
nanced in his rebellion, however he may be pitied as an unhappy man; and if convicted of no other crime, though the loyal brotherhood must and ought to disown his rebellion, and give no umbrage or ground of political jealousy to the government for the time being, they can not expel him from the Lodge, and his relation to it remains indefeasible.* III.
OF LODGES, t
A Lodge is a place where Masons assemble and work; hence that assembly, or duly organized society of Masons, is called a Lodge, and every brother ought to belong to one, and to be subject to its by-laws and the General Regulations. I t is either particular or general, and will be best understood by attending it, and by the regulations of the General or Grand Lodge hereunto annexed. J In ancient times no Master or Fellow could be absent from it, es*Political offenses are not cognizable by the Masonic tribunals. This may appear to be a departure from the general rule, and the inquiry naturally arises, why is one not "a peaceable subject to the civil powers" or one "concerned in plots and conspiracies against the welfare of the nation'' not subject to Masonic discipline for these acts? It is because Masonry has never interfered with the political opinions of its individual members, but leaves each as free to exercise his own will politically as religiously concerning which it does not assume to dictate articles of faith. Under the term "Charges of a Freemason" is embraced the most important document in our literature. It was compiled by order of the Grand Lodge of England, and first published in 1723.—Diet, of Freemasonry.—MORKIS, 57. N O T E S : — t T h e earliest use of this word known, in connection with Masonry, signified a habitation, or rather a place for retirement when the labor of the day was concluded; but afterwards and some time prior to the revival in 1717, ic was most generally used to designate an assembly. JLodges are referred to as "particular or general." This distinction must have had some signification. In the "Regulation of 1721," [pg. 51] the word particular appears to have been used to designate those Lodges which acknowledged the authority of the Grand Lodge of England, and referred to the Lodges in and about London and Westminster. These Charges were intended to have a general application; they were intended as a rule of action for all Masons and for all Lodges, for they were compiled from the Old Charges, and as the Grand Lodge of England did not claim to exercise jurisdiction over territory extending more than ten miles from London, Lodges outside of this territorial limit, were referred to as general Lodges.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
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CHARGES OP A FREEMASON.
pecially when warned to appear at it, without incurring a severe censure, until it appeared to the Master and Wardens that pure necessity hindered him.* The persons admitted members of a Lodge must be good and true men, free-born, and of mature and discreet age, no bondmen, no women, no immoral or scandalous men, but of good report.f
IV.
OF MASTERS, WARDENS, FELLOWS AND APPRENTICES. I
All preferment among Masons is grounded upon real worth and personal merit only; that so the Lords may *Thls rule is still vigorously maintained; no Master Mason or Fellow Craft may disobey or neglect the warning of the summons. Unless liindered by necessity he must obey the summons, and though his excuse be of the most imdeniable validity, he cannot question the right of, nor the necessity for its command. tThis by some writers is claimed to be a Landmarlc; at least it is one of the most important^ of all the Charges, and as nearly universal in observance as any other, yet the Grand Lodge of England has changed the word here freeborn to free-man. M.'. W.'. JOHN W , SIMONS in his admirable worlc. Masonic Jurisprudence, says: Commenting on tliis change, "They resolved: 1. The Regulation that a candidate must be free-born is obsolete; 2. I t is not a Landmark; and 3. That it be rescinded." And referring to the same subject. Brother ROBERT FREKB GOULD in his History of Freemasonry says, "The regulations wliich_ enacted that candidates for Masonry must be freeborn and have their limits whole were no more absolute than were those which required an Apprentice to serve seven years." And that most distinguished and learned Masonic Writer, Rev. GEORGE OLIVER, D . D . , in his Freemason's Treasury says, " I t is well liuown that whenever it has been found expedient to expunge a Landmarlc the means of accomplishment were never wanting. That monitory addresses prevailed amongst all the ancient guilds appears to be well warranted by history, and so important a Body as the Operative Masons could not have been without them. But strange to say, long since the admission of ELIAS ASHMOLE, in 1646, merely scattered records could be found as to the ancient regulations of the Craft.—Royal Masonic Encyc.—MACKENZIE,
115.
N O T E S : — J i t is not Icnown at what time the government of a Lodge was first vested in a Master and Wardens, but in 1663 the "New Articles" adopted, included among others the following: " T h a t for the future the said Society, Company and Fraternity of Freemasons shall he regulated and governed by one Master, and Assembly and Wardens as ye said Company shall think fit to choose, at every yearely General Assembly."
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OF
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CHARGES OF A FREEMASON.
be well served, the brethren not put to shame, nor the Royal Ctaft despised: Therefore no Master or Warden is chosen by seniority, but for his merit. * It is impossible to describe these things in writing, and every brother must attend in his place, and learn them in a way peculiar to this fraternity;! only candidates may know that no Master should take an Apprentice unless he has sufficient employment for him, and unless he be a perfect youth, having no maim or defect in his body, that may render him uncapable of learning the art of serving his Master's Lord- and of beino^ made a BvotkeT and then a Fellow Craft in due time, even after he has served such a term of years as the custom of the country directs; and that he should be descended of honest parents;| that so, when otherwise qualified, he may arrive at the honor of being the Warden, and then the Master at the Lodge, the Grand Warden, and at length the Grand Master of all the Lodges, according to his merit.§ No Brother can be a Warden until he has passed the •This rule, admitted to be correct in theory is not at all times practiced. It too often occurs that the best interests of tlie Fraternity are sacrificed to the greed of the Mason, who is ambitious to write a long Use of abbreviations after his name, and who is able to accomplish this by the aid of the inconsiderate. tAs no one can perceive the beauties of nature by any word painting, so it is impossible to convey to the mind by any form of words, what is meant by "Keal worth and personal merit only." I t is by observation and association and on the checliered pavement of the Mason's Lodge these qualifications can best be learned. JNo Lodge should accept a candidate unless it appears that he will become a useful member of tlie Society, nor unless he is capable of learning the art and serving Masonry. And that lie may know that this is expected of liim, he should always be required to state unequivocally, " That he is prompted to solicit the privileges of Masonry from a sincere wish to be serviceable to his fellow creatures." §Bvery Mason should qualify himself for the proper discharge of those duties which he may be called on to iierform, but as all men have not been equally endowed they can not all hope to attain these honors, besides it has been ordained from the beginning that the few shall rule while the great majority must obey, yet every Mason may hope to attain those higher honors which are the rewards of the faithful craftsman.
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CHARGES OF A FREEMASON.
part of a Fellow Craft; nor a Master until he has acted as a Warden, nor Grand Warden until he has been Master of a Lodge, nor GRAND MASTER unless he has been a Fellow Craft before his election,* who is also to be nobly born, or a gentleman of the best fashion, or some eminent scholar, or some curious architect, or other artist, descended of honest parents, and who is of singular great merit in the opinion of the Lodges, f And for the better, easier, and more honorable discharge of his office, the Grand Master has' a power to choose his own Deputy Grand Master, who must be then, or must have been formerly, the Master of a particular Lodge, t and has the privilege of acting whatever the Grand Master, his principal, should act, unless the said principal be present, or interpose his authority by a letter.l These rulers and governors, supreme and subordinate, of the ancient Lodge, are to be obeyed in their respective
NOTES:—*At the time of the organization of the Grand Lodge of England an Apprentice was permitted to sit in that Body and to speak, [Reg. XXXVII, p. 65] and he might vote on any proposition to alter the regulations or make new ones, (Id. X X X I X , p. 66,] but it was wisely reserved that no one should be the Warden of a Lodge until he had opportunity, by experience, to attain some knowledge of the art, and it was also fair to presume that service as Warden would better qualify one for Master. tAny Fellow Craft might be chosen Grand Master, for any Fellow Craft, "casually or by chance," [Reg. XXXIV, p. 64] might be selected, and when so selected, he must have been proclaimed Grand Master, for he would a t least be presumed to be "descended of honest parents." t i n the Proceedings of the Grand Lodge of England, there is no reference to the appointment of a Deputy Grand Master until Dec. 27, 1720. when "iL was "also agreed, that for the future the new Grand Master, as soon as he is install'd, shall have the sole power of appointing both his Grand Wardens and a Deputy Grand Master [now found as necessary as formerly] according to ancient custom, when Noble Brothers were Grand Masters." Bro. GOULD in his History of Freemasonry [note p. 281, Vol. II,] says, " T h e first innovation upon the usages of the Society occurred December 27, 1720, when the office of Deputy Grand Master was established, and the Grand Master was empowered to appoint that officer together with the two Wardens." §In general the Deputy Grand Master can exercise only the powers conferred by his Grand Lodge, except he has an inherent right, in the absence of the Grand Master, to preside over any Lodge or Assembly of Masons at which he may be present.
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CHARGES OF A FREEMASON.
stations by all the brethren, according to the Old Charges and regulations, with "all humility, reverence, love and alacrity. * V. OF THE MANAGEMENT OF THE CRAFT IN WORKING, t
All Masons shall work honestly on working days that they may live creditably on holy days; and the time appointed by the law of the land, or confirmed by custom, shall be observed.! The most expert of the Fellow-Craftsmen shall be chosen or appointed the Master, or Overseer of the Lord's work; who is to be called Master by those that work under him. The Craftsmen are to avoid all ill language, and to call each other by no disobliging name, but Brot'her or Fellow; and to behave themselves courteously within and without the Lodge.§ *It is a cardinal principle in Masonry—a rule from which there is and can be no deviation—that a Mason in the Lodge must yield the most implicit obedience to the orders of the Master, subject only to the right of redress for any grievance, by a proper appeal to the Grand Master, or Grand Lodge. And every member of the Grand Lodge, in like manner, is bound to obey the orders of the Grand Master, subject only to proper appeal to the Grand Lodge. On the 29th of September, 1721, Bro. J. ANDERSON was commissioned to revise, arrange and digest the Gothic Constitutions, Old Charges and General Regulations; and from them to devise a Constitution which should include what was contained in the Ancient Books generally, but altered to suit the different circumstances in which the Fraternity now found itself.— Hist. Freemasonry.—FINDEL, 145. NOTES:—fMasonry as an operative art had not ceased to e.xist at the time the compiler of the "Old Constitutions" prepared his manuscript, or when the "14 learned Brothers" examined it. else these rules would not have found a place here, unless ohey were preserved because " Masonry holds whatever has once attached to It," (see note p. 26,) yet the speculative Mason of to-day may here learn some valuable lessons. JThe Mason is required to be industrious and faithful in whatever he undertakes, cautioned not to indulge in any excesses which shall tend to degrade him, and commanded to keep the day appointed by law, or, confirmed by custom for the service of GOD, as a day of rest. §The Master of the Lodge should be chosen from those best qualified for that ofBce. and when chosen he should be duly honored by those over whom he presides. Masons should demean themselves fraternally, never forgetting the exercise of that Brotherly Love which is a tenet of the Masonic profession.
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
79
CHARGES OF A FREEMASON.
The Master knowing himself to be able of cunning, shall undertake the Lord's work as reasonably as possible and truly dispend his goods as if they were his own; nor to give more wages to any Brother or Apprentice than he really may deseive.* Both the Master and the Masons receiving their wages justly, shall be faithful to the Lord, and honestly finish their work, whether task or journey; nor put the work to task that hath been accustomed to journey.f None shall discover envy at the prosperity of a Brother, nor supplant him, or put him out of his work, if he be capable to finish the same; for no man can finish another's work so much to the Lord's profit, unless he be thoroughly acquainted with the designs and draughts of him t h a t began it.t When a Fellow-Craftsman is chosen Warden of the work under the Master, he shall be true both to Master and Fellows, shall carefully oversee the work in the Master's absence to the Lord's profit; and his brethren shall obey him-§ *The Master, knowing himself qualified, is enjoined to undertake the government of the Lodge in accordance with the usages and regulations of the Society, to maintain the strictest integrity in the management of the trust reposed in him, and without partial discrimination reward the Brethren, each according to his merit. tAll should be faithful to the Lodge and true to the principles they profess, for in the spirit of Masonr.v each is rewarded according to his merit. and having received their rewards they should in no respect neglect their duties, and every duty should be performed within the spirit of the regulations prescribed therefor, and according to the skill and understanding of the workmen. NOTES:—^JThls teaches that there should be no envy or jealousy between Lodges, and that one Lodge siiould not interfere with the business of another, nor invade its jurisdiction, nor undertake to finish the work of another without its consent expressly declared, either by request, or waiver of its rights. §The Wardens are to support and assist the Master in the government and work of the Lodge, and under him they are the Overseers of the Craft; In his absence, in the order of Seniority, they succeed to his duties, and the Warden, so acting has the same powers, and is entitled to the same respect and obedience as the Master. .
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GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
C H A R G E S OB' A F R E E M A S O N .
All Masons employed shall meekly receive their wages without murmuring or mutiny, and not desert the Master till the work is finished.* A younger Brother shall be instructed in working, to prevent spoiling the materials for want of judgment, and for increasing and continuing of brotherly love.f All the tools used in working shall be approved by the Grand Lodge. | No laborer shall be employed- in the proper work of Masonry; nor shall Freemasons work with those that are not free, without an urgent necessity; nor shall they teach laborers and unaccepted Masons, as they should teach a Brother or Fellow.§ VI. OF BEHAVIOR, ViZ:i
1.
In the Lodge while Constituted. ^
You are not to hold private committeeR; or separate conversation without leave from the Master, nor to talk of anything impertinent or unseemly, nor interrupt the Master or Wardens, or any brother speaking to the *Every Mason within the jurisdiction of the J^odge should submit gracefully to the award of his Brothers, and to the extent of his al^illty shotild assist the Master in the work, and perform his part as the Master may direct. tEvery well informed Brother should be as ready to give instruction as one less informed is found ready to receive it. tThe Grand Lodge has a right to prescribe a uniform mode of working, and every Lodge under its jurisdiction, and every Mason therein must obey its mandates. Any rule short of this would be subversive of harmony, and in contempt of that authority which has been delegated by the organization of a superintending authority. ^It is not within the spirit of Masonry for Lodges or Masons to seek assistance from those not Masons, for the prosecution of any strictly Masonic NciTEs:—llThe Mason's behavior appears to have been always considered an important subject: this is because the purposes of Masonry are such, that the proper regulation of individual conduct is of special importance. It has occupied so much attention that the legislation of the general assemblies of Masons, prior to the revival of 1717, may be said to have been devoted almost exclusively thereto. HBehavior within the Lodge is of the first importance, for the assemblies of Masons should always be characterized by orderly and dignified conduct.
GRAND
LODGE OF KANSAS.
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CHARGES OF A FREEMASON.
Master; nor behave yourself ludicrously or jestingly while the Lodge is engaged in what is serious and solemn; nor use any unbecoming language upon any pretense whatsoever; but to pay due reverence to your Master, Wardens and Fellows, and put them to worship.* If any complaint be brought, the Brother found guilty shall stand to the award and determination of the Lodge who are the proper and competent judges of all such controversies (unless you carry it by appeal to the Grand Lodge), and to whom they ought to be referred, unless a Lord's work be hindered the rneanwhile, in which case a particular reference may be made; but you must never go to law about what concerneth Masonry, without an absolute necessity apparent to the Lodge, f undertaking, whether in the erection of temples or the maintenance of eleemosynary institutions; yet any Tjodge may accept contributions for such purposes, when they are voluntaiily and freely oflered. In the Charges of a Freemason the sixtli article is exclusively appropriated to the subject of "Behavior." The whole article constitutes a Code of Moral Ethics, remarkable for the purity of the principles it inculcates, and is well worthy the close attention of every Mason.—Bncy. Freemasonry.— MACKEY,
111.
While those who are not Masons may never know what is done in the Lodge room, or how Masons may demean themselves therein, yet, only he who maintains his own respect can hope to enjoy the respect of others. •Private Committees, that is private caucuses for the purpose of controlling the action of the Lodge on any matter which is before it, or for the purpose of carrying any proposition which may be of doubtful expediency, are strictly forbidden, and private conversations between the members, being subversive of good order are not to be indulged in, for every one should endeavor to put his IMaster, Wardens and Fellows to Worship, that is to accord to each respect due to him. tThe right of appeal is here recognized; tliere is no limitation, so if any Brother shall feel aggrieved by the decision of the Lodge or its Master, whether he shall stand as one accused or as an accuser, or even should he bear no other relation to the controversy, than as one desiring a just decision for the good of Masonry, he may cause the decision to be reviewed by the Grand Master, or by the Grand Lodge; l>ut that which concerns Masonry only shall not be presented to the courts of the couniry unless the Lodge shall so order. In ancient times every section of the lecture has its peculiar toast or sentiment, and at its conclusion the Lodge was called from labor to refreshment by certain ceremonies, and a toast, technically called "the charge" was drunk in a bumper, with the honors, and not unfreciuently accompanied by an appropriate song, after wliich the Lodge was called from refreshment
82
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L'mjE
OF
KANSAS.
CHAKGES OF A FliEfcJMAS'.N.
2. Behavior After the Lodge is Over and the • Brethren not Gone.* You may enjoy yourselves with innocent mirth, treating one another according to ability, but avoiding all excess, or forcing any Brother to eat or drink beyond his inclination, or hindering' him from going when his occasions call him, or doing or saying anything offensive, or that may forbid an easy and free conversation; for that would blast our harmony and defeat our laudable purposes.t Therefore no private piques or quarrels must be. brought within the door of the Lodge, far less any quarrels about religion, or nations, or state policy, we being only, as Masons, of the catholic religion abovementioned; we are also of all nations, tongues, kindreds, and languages, and are resolved against all politics, as what never yet conduced to the welfare of the Lodge, nor ever will. J This Charge has been always strictly to labor, a n d a u o t h e r section was delivered with the like result.—Insl's Masonic Juris.—OLIVER,
210.
NOTES:—*The place where Masons assemble is often alluded to as " T h e Masons' Home." Here all meet upon the level, all are equally welcome, and all are entitled to receive fraternal treatment. Hence it follows that some cautionary rules are necessary, to the end that all, who come to the Lodge, may feel assured that the general conduct of their brethren will be such as to render their attendance agreeable, as well during the- period of refreshment as diiring the hours of labor. A careful examination of the Ancient' Begulations will show this subject was in the olden times a matter for consideration. tThe custom of indulging in the use of spirituous liquors and beverages was so xmiversal at the time of the revival of Masonry, that the members of the Lodges did not escape the influence of the convivial spirit of that period. Drinking, in the Lodge room during the hours of refreshment was a usual custom, and it was found necessary to regulate the conduct of the brethren by the fundamental law. The practice in those days was—and it is a common custom of the English Lodges at the present day—to hold the Lodge at some tavern, and the Lodge was designated by the name of the tavern where it was held. This regiUation is nearly obsolete among the Lodges of the United States, for the change of sentiment in favor of temperance renders any regulation on the subject almost wholly unnecessary. JReligious and political discussions should not be held in the Lodge room, for upon these subjects such a diversity of opinion exists,—and these opinions are so fixed—that controversies relating thereto are liable to lead to acrimo-
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OF KANSAS.
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• CHARGES OF A FREEMASON.
enjoined and observed; but especially ever since the Reformation in Britain, or the dissent and secession of these nations from the communion of Rome. 3. Behavior when Brethren Meet Without Strangers, but not in a Lodge Formed. * You are to salute one another in a courteous manner, as you will be instructed, calling each other Brother, freely giving mutual instruction as shall be thought expedient, without being overseen or overheard, and without encroaching upon each other, or derogating from that respect which is due to any Brother, were he not a Mason; for though all Masons are as brethren upon the same level, yet Masonry takes no honor from a man that he had before; nay, rather it adds to his honor, especially if he has deserved well of the brotherhood, who must give honor to whom it is due, and avoid ill manners. nious debate, engendering unfraternal relations and ofttimes leading to serious quarrels. No other subjects seem frauglit with so many disturbing elements, and the rule here stated is a most wise one. Soon after the election of GEORGE PAYNE, Esq., as Grand Master in 1721, he gave convincing proofs of his zeal and attention, by commanding Dr. DESAGTJLIERS and JAMES ANDEKSON, A. M., men of genius and education,
to revise, arrange and digest the Gothic Constitutions, Old Charges, and General Regulations. This task they faithfully executed; and at the ensuing Grand Lodge, held at the Queen's Arms St. Paul's Churchyard, on the 27th of December, 1721, being the festival of ST. JOHN the EVANGELIST, the same was presented for approbation. A committee of fourteen learned Brothers was appointed to examine the manuscript, and make their report. And at a Grand Lodge held ac the Fountain Tavern in the Strand, in ample form, on the 2.5th of March, 1722, tlie committee reported, that they had perused the manuscript, containg the History, Charges, Regulations, &c., of Masonry, and, after some amendments, had approved thereof. The Grand Lodge ordered the whole to be prepared for x,he press, and printed with all possible expedition. This order was strictly obeyed, and within less than two years the Book of Constitutions appeare'd in print, under the following title: " T h e Book of Constitutions of the Free-Masons; containing the History, Charges, Regulatiotis, &c., of that Most Ancient and Right Worshipful Fraternity. For the use of the Lodges. London, 1723."—Illustrations of Masonry.— PRESTON, 222.
*I recommend to you a particular care and circumspection, that you betray not our distinguishing marks and characteristics to any strangers;
84
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
CHARGES OF A FKEEMASON. •
Jf.. Behavior in Presence of Strangers, not Masons. * You shall be cautious in your words and carriage, that the most penetrating stranger shall not be able to discover or find out what is not proper to be intimated; and sometimes you shall divert a discourse, and manage it prudently for the honor of the Worshipful Fraternity. 5. Behavior at Home, and in Your Neighborhood.\ You are to act as becomes a moral and wise man: particularly, not to let your family, friends and neighbors know the concerns of the Lodge, etc., but wisely to consult your own honor, and that of the Ancient brotherhood, for reasons not to be mentioned here. You must also consult your health by not continuing together too late, or too long from home, after Lodge hours are past; and by avoiding of gluttony or drunkenliul to yuui' iieitresi- etiiu dearest relations, nor most initmate and confidential friend. It will be prudent in you, at least for some time, not to exhibit them even to a Brother, except in Lodge, or where you well know your company. Time and patience will fully evince to you the importance of this precaution. *You will keep a strict guard over your discourse, looks and gestures; 60 that the most piercing eye, the quickest ear, or the most penetrating observations, may not possibly discover what ought to be concealed; and if you meet with prying inquisitive people, endeavor to turn and divert the discourse; but beware of manifesting any offense or discomposure.—Lecture to Young Maions.—S/nrit of Masonry.—HUTCHINSON, 173. These Charges were collected and p\iblished as fixed laws of Masonry —Laws that had become so perfectly a part of the Institution, that they were considered as unchangeable Landmarks of the Fraternity. It is to be regretted that they have ever been differently regarded. The restless desire for improvement, real or fancied, tliat characterizes the present age, finds no warrant in the old customs and usages of our Fraternity. The better opinion is, that all attempted modifications of these Ancient Charges are unwarrantal>lo and unlawful innovations, which every installed Master has solemnly declared that no man or body of men has the power to make, [n 17.3S, ANDERSON published a second edition of his Constitutions, in which he attempted co condense and modify the "Ancient Charges" as given in his first edition. But the Grand Lodge refused its sanction, and the Charges, as originally published, have ever since been accepted as the true version.—Masonic Text Book.—DRUMMOND,
188.
N O T E S : — t M y Brother when at the closing of the Lodge you put off yoxir apron, do not also divest yourself of your good behavior; but wrap this as
GRAND
LODGE
OF KANSAS.
85
CHARGES OF A FREEMASON.
ness, that your families be not neglected or injured, nor you disabled from working. 6. Behavior Toward a Strange Brother. * You are cautiously to examine him, in such a method as prudence shall direct you, that you may not be imposed upon by an ignorant false pretender, whom you are to reject with contempt and derision, and beware of giving him any hints of knowledge. But if you discover him to be a true and genuine Brother, you are to respect him accordingly; and if he is in want, you must relieve him if you can^ or else direct him how he may be relieved; you must employ him some days, or else, recommend him to be employed. But you are not charged to do beyond your ability, only to prefer a poor Brother, that is a good man and true, before any other poor people in the same circumstances. Finally, All these CHARGES you are to observe, and also those that shall be communicated to you in another way; cultivating brotherly love, the foundation and capestone, the cement and glory, of this ancient fraternity, avoiding all wrangling and quarreling, all slander and backbiting, nor permitting others to slander any honest Brother, but defending his character, and doing a mantle about you and bear it with you into your family, your neighborhood and wheresoever you may go, remembering always that the highest duties and obligations you owe to man. you owe to those who are dependent upon you, and to those by whom you are daily surrounded. *But good behavior must be ihe mantle of principle; it must cover a character for probity and a spirit of brotherly love, else the penetrating eye of a critical world will soon discover, be its folds ever so ample, the hypocrisy it is intended to conceal. Then let it be your constant endeavor to so live, that, in the coming years, you may be remembered as a Ma.son " t o whom the burdened heart poured out its sorrows, to whom di.stress preferred its suit, whose hand was guided by justice and whose heart was expanded by benevolence."
86
GRAND
LODGE
OF
KANSAS.
CHARGES OF A FEEEMASON.
him all good offices, as far as is consistent with your honor and safety, and no further. And if any of them do you injury, you must apply to your own or his Lodge; and from thence you may appeal to the Grand Lodge at the quarterly communication, and from thence to the annual Grand Lodge, as has been the ancient laudable conduct of our forefathers in every nation; never taking a legal course, but when the case can not be otherwise decided, and patiently listening to the honest and friendly advice of Master and Fellows when they would prevent your going to law with strangers, or would excite you to put a speedy period to all law-suits, that so you may mind the affair of Masonry with the more alacrity and success; but with respect to Brothers or Fellows at law, the Master and brethren should kindly offer their mediation, which ought to be thankfully submitted to by the contending brethren; and if that submission is impracticable, they must, however, carry on their process or law-suit without wrath and rancor (not in the common way), saying or doing nothing which may hinder brotherly love, and good offices to be renewed and continued; that all may see the benign influence of Masonry, as all true Masons have done from the beginning of the world, and will do to the end of time. Amen.
So mote it be.
The second edition of the "Constitutions" [1738] has been denominated by many writers, *'The basis of Masonic History." The subject was new to Dr. ANDERSON in 1721-3, but in 1738, tliere were many sources availaljle from which a rational history and resumfi of the Ancient Regulations might have been compiled, and lie had special facilities for acquiring the facts upon which such a history ought to have l>een founded. The result of Dr. ANDERSON'S researches, as seen in 1738 edition, is very far from satisfactory, and tests the credulity of his readers even more than the previous one.—Hist. Freemasonry.—GOOLD, I, 104.
APPENDIX.
REPORT ON CORRESPONDENCE. B Y A L B E R T K . WILSON, CHAIRMAN.
To The M.: W:. Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M. of Kansas: The report following includes a review of the Proceedings of all jurisdictions with which we are in fraternal correspondence except California and Illinois, whose reports had not reached the writer's hands at the time of closing. One year ago we reported a net loss in four jurisdictions, while this year the statistical tables at the close of this report show a net loss in six jurisdictions. The net loss in Georgia one year ago was 931, while this year it is 2,047; in the case of Massachusetts their report one year ago showed a net gain of 2,167 while this year they reported a net loss of 830. The net gain is approximately fifty per cent less than one year ago. The statistical table will show a detailed report and from the footing it will be observed that our net gain is about 25,000 less than last year. This information is not intended for what ordinarily might be termed a "calamity howl" but simply for the purpose of presenting to our readers a brief reference to the general conditions of membership throughout the Masonic world. The writer has noted for many years that the increase in membership runs in cycles and we have no doubt in a short time conditions will change and the reports will show an improvement and the usual normal increase. From information received through many of our District Deputy Grand Masters we flatter ourselves that each year interest increases in the matter of brethren and lodges reading the Report on Correspondence, and in submitting the review this year we would call the reader's attention to a number of very important topics taken from addresses of Grand Masters and others on Masonic subjects. The writer has endeavored to be as liberal as possible in quoting from other
186
CORRESPONDENCE—ALABAMA.
February,
Proceedings, believing t h a t feature is really the important one in the preparation of a report of this kind, and t h a t it is not within the province of the compiler to inject any considerable number of his own ideas. Fraternally submitted, ALBERT K . WILSON,
Chairman.
ALABAMA —1927. T ^Af*nci
KOO.
«,„««U«—,
cA n o r .
j- l
orrr*
Montgomery, December 6, 1927. OLIVER DAY STREET, M.-.W.-. Grand Master. Brother ENCY F . YEILDING, our Grand Representative, was present. The Grand Master, in presenting his address, had the following to say concerning the condition of the membership in their jurisdiction: At home the year has on the whole been a successful one for Freemasonry, notwithstanding there has been a small decrease in members in the State. This is due to t h e very large number of suspensions and in turn I believe these due m a measure to undesirable material accepted during the rush incident to the World War. The Grand Master presents a table under the head of "Suspensions for Non-Payment of Dues for the Past Eleven Years" and we notice the number under that head for the year 1926 is an increase of more t h a n 500 over t h e previous year. This no doubt in a large measure accounts for their net loss in membership. On this same subject he had the following to say: They disclose first that in the 11 years Q916 t o 1926) the suspensions n. p . d. exceeded the reinstarements by 7,202. In other words from this source alone Grand Lodge sustained an annual loss of revenue of about $10,500, or for the average time five years, a total loss of more than $50,000. not to mention the moral loss involved in t h e inactivity of over 7,000 Masons. The questions that present themselves is how can these numerous suspensions be avoided and how can they be reinstated. My own experience and observation is that a good live Secretary can prevent most of them and can bring back into the lodge nearly all that are not prevented. A more careful examination of these tables show that the number of suspensions in a particular lodge apparently bears no uniform proportion to t h e total number of members it has. For example, Helion in HuntsviUe with 263 members lost 25 in 1926, nearly 10%, whileAndrew Jackson in Montgomery with 652 members lost only 39, about 6%, and Birmingham Fraternal with 92S members lost only 21, about 2 K % - All these lodges are in cities where conditions are similar. Anomalies like these will be found to be numerous in these Tables. What is the reason? There Is but one possible answer. The human eguasion is a t work. As the French would say, "Cherchez I'homme", which being translated means "Look for
1928-29.
COBBESPONDENCE—ALABAMA.
187
the man." Thoughtlessness on the part of the members and carelessness of the Secretary lead to most suspensions. Some years ago a brother of my own lodge, going back for about 20 years, secured a complete list of all its living suspended members. They numbered more than 20. Going to each one in person and telling them that ohe lodge wanted them back, all reinstated except two or three and many of them were afterward numbered among our most faithful members. This experiment poinds the way to the most effective means of getting them back.
We note the Grand Master serves as a censor in the matter of physical qualifications and under their regulations he passes judgment under two heads; first, can the petitioner fairly comply with the essential requirements of the ritual, and second, would his maimed condition render him a charge upon the Craft. Where he could answer the first in the affirmative and the second in the negative he waived the Landmarks on this subject. Under the head of "Forfeiture and Restoration of Charters" we quote the following, knowing full well it will be interesting to our readers: Our Constitution Art. VI, Sec. 22 says, " E v e r y lodge that shall fail to make returns to the Grand Lodge, or to pay its dues, or fail to be represented in the Grand Lodge for two successive years, or which shall fail to assemble for work for the space of six months, shall be stricken from the books of the Grand Lodge, be deprived of the benefits of Masonry, and its charter declared forfeited, but upon proper application to the Grand Lodge at its next regular communication, making due retxirn_ and paying its dues, together with what interest may have accrued thereon,, such lodge may be restored to its former rank and privileges." It seems long to have been the practice, when the Grand Secretary deems; that a lodge has incurred ground for forfeiture, for the Grand Secretary simply to drop the lodge from the list and to nooein an appendlx'to'the Proceedings; that its charter has been forfeited. Such action was taken by the Grand. Secretary in the 1926 Proceedings as to Harrison and Reuben Lodges for their failure to pay dues for two years. Such forfeiture was not "declared" by Grand Lodge. When the matter of revival of these lodges came before me, I held that no> forfeiture of charter had been declared within the meaning of this constitutional! provision and that these lodges only needed to pay up their dues to reinstate them. However, to avoid any doubt, I required a petition as provided by edict No. 97 and issued a dispensation to each of them to work until Grand Lodge could act on the matter. I am really of the opinion that the so-caUed forfeiture of their charters was abortive, but that a resolution or edict to clear up the proper practice is needed. I, therefore, recommend that the following resolution be adopted: "When the charter of a lodge is subject to forfeiture for any cause, the same shall be reported to the Grand Lodge at any regular Communication by the Grand Secretary or any other member, and Grand Lodge shall take such action thereon as may be proper. "When in any such case the cause for forfeiture has been fully removed, the Grand Master may in his discretion upon the petition of not less than seven members of said lodge who were in good standing when its charter was forfeited and who have not obtained certificates from the Grand Secretary, issue a dispensation to such lodge to conoinue work till the convening of the next regular Communication of Grand Lodge at winch time Grand Lodge shall take such action as in deems proper."
. 188
CORRESPONDENCE—ALABAMA.
February,
BEORGANIZATION OF LODGES.
Under present Masonic law, when the charter of a lodge Is forfeited either the charter must be restored or a new lodge organized. Charters may be and occasionally are forfeited for the misconduct of members of a lodge. When the charter is restored the effect is to restore to membership all who were members in good standing a t the time of forfeiture, thus automatically resvoring to membership the very ones whose misconduct may have brought about the forfeiture. To organize a new lodge is to siu'render not only the property but the sentiment surrounding the old name and number. A practice has long prevailed in the Grand Secretary's office of "reorganizing" a lodge with the old narrie and number and of treating as members of the "reorganized" lodge only chose who sign Che petition for reorganization. I do not believe that this practice has been in accordance with Masonic law, but I do believe that with some safe-guards it should be legalized. 1, therefore, recommend the adoption of the following resolution: " W h e n the charter of any lodge has been forfeited and no steps have been taken looking to a restoration of its charter, r o t less than nine of those •who were members of said lodge in good standing a t the time of forfeiture :and who have not accepted certificates from the Grand Secretary, may petit i o n the Grand Master for a reorganization of said lodge, and he may in his •<liscretion issue to such lodge a dispensation to work till the ne.xt regular Com.munlcation of Grand Lodge a t which time such action shall be taken as Grand .Lodge deems proper. The effect of such reorganization shall be chat the reorganized lodge shall Ibe entitled to t h e name, number and property of the old lodge but only those Bhall be restored to membership in the lodge as were in good standing at the time of forfeiture and who have not accepted certificates from the Grand Secretary and who shall successfully pass a unanimous ballot at a meeting of t.he members of said lodge to be held at a time and place of which reasonable Eotice has been given, said ballot to be conducted under the supervision of a special deputy or the Grand Master." • Speaking of our distinguished Brother NELSON WILLIAMS of Ohio
the Grand Master had the following to say: As we had hoped, we have with us as a visitor Brother NELSON WILLIAMS, of Hamilton, Ohio, our Grand Representative near the Grand Lodge of that state. Brother WILLIAMS has been our Grand Representative for tliirty-four years and in lilm we have been greatly ho.nored. Since his appoirtment, he has filled in his own Masonic bodies the positions of Grand Orator, Grand Master, Grand High Priest, Grand Master of the Grand Council, Grand Commander of the Grand Commandery, President of the Order of High Priesthood and has received the .33rd degree of the Scottish Rite. He is a t present Grand Conductor of the General Grand Council. For 2,5 years he has served as chairman of important committees in all the National Masonic bodies. We trust t h a t he will continue as our representative for many more years and that this will not be the last time we shall have him with us as a visitor.
The Grand Master recommended that judgment of conviction in court be made a strong presumption of guilt in all cases, and we quote the following: The conviction of a Mason in the civil courts of a crime or a misdemeanor shall upon any trial of such Mason in the lodge raise a strong prima facie presumption of his guilt of the offense charged in the civil court.
. 1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—ALABAMA.
189
The following By-Law was approved by the Grand Lodge and the writer wonders what would happend if the Grand Master approved an application of some outside organization to use the word " Masonic" and the Grand Lodge disapproved of the same: TJnless recognized and approved by resolution of the Grand Lodge, the use of the word " M a s o n i c " in connection with any club, organization, or business constitutes a Masonic offense, provided during recess of Grand Lodge the Grand Master may give such recognition or approval till the convening of Grand Lodge. Under "Decisions" the Grand Master ruled t h a t an Entered Apprentice could wear a Masonic pin. The Committee on Jurisprudence, however, disapproved of the decision. We note from the report of the Chairman of the Committee on Foreign Correspondence, Brother FRED WALL, that his report, after having been completed, was destroyed by fire, which accounts for the absence of that portion of their Proceedings this year. From the address of M.'. W.'. Brother NELSON WILLIAMS of Ohio we presume to quote the following: Another reason for our existence is the fact that in recognizing the fatherhood of GOD we necessarily recognize the brotherhood of man. The question " A m I my Brother's keeper?" is as old as time itself and has been answered by Freemasonry in the affirmative, I feel that I cannot too strongly stress this side of Freemasonry. It is a mistake to believe that all of the charity we may minister is the giving of money although this is one of the essentials and, I fear, most common method of dispensing charity. My Brethren, a t best life is not very long. A few more smiles, a few more tears, some pleasure, some pain, sunshine and song, clouds and darkness, hasty greetings, abrupt farewells and life's play will end. This being true, is it not our duty to throw as much sunshine and happiness Into the lives of our brethren as we can? There is many a desolated chamber of the heart, to the cold and darkened walls of which there are clinging many tender tendrils and precious flowers, which need buc a single ray of the sunshine of love and affection to warm them Into life and beauty. Let us as masons help to open the shutters of these hearts, that the sunlight may revive and beautify the drooping vines and flowers. There is many a weary, discouraged brother traveUng down the pathway of life through the valley of adversity, with barren earth or rocks on either side, and nothing to cheer or comfort him. Let us as men and Masons not only see that his feet are well shod and that he has a cup of cold water when he is thirsty, but let us plant the flowers of friendship on either side, so that their beauty and fragrance, while they may not shorten the journey, will tend to lift its burden from the heart of the weary traveler, and show him that there is a one-ness in life which In times of suffering and distress, makes the whole world akin. I have but little sympathy with that charity which bedecks the coffin of the dead and never wreaths the brow of the living. The chamber of death may be brightened, and its somberness dispelled by the beauty and fragrance of GOD'S flowers, and I do not want t o be understood as favoring a discontinuance of this custom, but the fact remains that within the casket our friend or brother sleeps the eternal sleep of death, and is oblivious to all these earthly tokens of affection and esteem. Better a simple bouquet pinned upon his breast when its beauty and fragrance can please and comfort him, than the banks of flowers that hide his casket in death. A funeral eulogy may be pleasing to the ear of the living, and may win encomiums for the speaker; it may be composed of beautiful and well-rounded
190
COBBESPONDENCE—ALBEBTA.
February,
sentences containing praise, (and sometimes adulation)for the dead, but It comes too late. A few words of advice and encouragement whispered in the ear of a wavering or discouraged brother will do him more good, than volumes of eulogies spoken over his remains. Let us then do what we can to comfort and encourage the living in the stern battle of life. If they are old and infirm and unable to toil, let us toil for them and in their behalf; if they are widows and orphans and in distress, let us give of our bounty to supply their wants; if they are able and willing to work, let us assist in finding employment for them, and in this way not only keep hunger from their doors, but let sunshine into their homes, so that those who are dependent upon them, may also be made happy and contented.
* * * * * *
Freemasonry may be said to be like some Grand Old Cathedral that has withstood the storms of ages, but notwithstanding the flight of years, still stands as a monument to man's skill and ingenuity and an evidence of GOD'S sparing hand. If we look a t it from the outside: at its moss-covered v,'all3; its weather-stained spire and its stained glass wiiiuOws and roof, we may be impressed with t h e thought that it is simply a musty old pile, standing in a deserted place and surrounded by tombs. B u t once get within the Cathedral and everything is changed. Instead of being dark and gloomy, it is bright and cheerful. Its doors swing freely on their hinges, but sentinels are on guard to see that none enter who would despoil the sacred place. The Sanctuary is gilded with gold and dedicated to GOD. The walls are decorated with lessons from the Sermon on the Mount and the Ten Commandments, while here and there are truisms brought down from patriarchal days. The stained glass windows, so unattractive from the outside, now appear as a canopy of rainbows, and the light from heaven, penetrating the different colored prisms, diffuses its myriad rays over all within, while the great organ peals forth-in thunderous tones and the choir and audience join in singing hosannahs
JAMES M . PEARSON, M.". W . ' . Grand Master, Alexander City. GEORGE A. BEAUCHAMP, R.-. W . ' . Grand Secretary, Montgomery. FRANCIS MARION STILLWBLL, Correspondent, Selma.
Next Annual, Montgomery, December 4, 1928.
ALBERTA —1928. Lodges, 1 5 1 ; m e m b e r s , 13,301; n e t gain, 266. C a l g a r y , J u n e 13, 1928.
GEORGE E . CRUICKSHANK, M . - . W.-.
Grand Master. R.'. W.'. B r o t h e r S. J . B L A I R , our G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e , w a s present. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r s u b m i t t e d a n i n t e r e s t i n g preface t o his a d d r e s s , from which w e q u o t e t h e following: When we look back over the year just past we are conscious that it has •been a period of prosperity: we have been favored with a bountiful harvest, and we are again looking forward with unbounded optimism and inspiring confidence to a continuance of the beneficence of Him who watches over us at all times. While we are enjoying the continued favor of that Great Architect, I am constrained t o express the sorrow and regret we all feel at the loss of those
1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—ALBERTA.
191
of the Fraternity of this and other jurisdictions who have passed on to the Grand Lodge above in obedience to the summons of the Great Grand Master. On March 28th of the present year this Grand Lodge suffered an incalculable loss in the passing of our beloved Grand Secretary, M.'. W.'. Bro. S. Y. TAYLOK. Those of us who knew him best loved him most and while we grieve over his departure, the memory of his good worlis, his fidelity t o friends and his devotion to Masonry is engraved upon our hearts. He was elected in June, 1917, to the office of Grand Secretary and continuously served Grand Lodge in this capacity until the date of his death. Without detracting from the merits and efforts of other Grand Lodge ofBcers and Past Grand Masters svith whom he served I think we are all agreed that our late Grand Secretary has exercised an outstanding influence on the policies of Grand Lodge and by his continued efforts largely assisted in the execution thereof. His long experience in the practice of matters Masonic as well as his wide knowledge of t h e lore, history and philosophy of our Craft peculiarly fitted him for the discharge of the duties of his high ofHce to the general acceptance of the Craft not only in this jurisdiction but throughout the Masonic world. For many years he carried on unaided the work of the Commitcee on Foreign Correspondence and attained wide recognition In other jurisdictions for his Masonic atiainments. The Committee, consisting of M .-. W.-. Bro. F . S. SELWOOD, M .-. W.-. Bro. W. M. CONNACHEH and R.'. W.'. Bro. H. B . CHATJNCEY was appointed by me to draft the memorial which is to be read in all lodges and will be inserted in our proceedings. T h e G r a n d L o d g e suffered a serious loss w h e n t h e b u i l d i n g in which t h e i r offices were located was destroyed b y fire. T h e l i b r a r y a n d their supplies were g r e a t l y d a m a g e d , some of which were t o t a l l y d e s t r o y e d . I t w a s f o r t u n a t e , however, t h a t their p e r m a n e n t r e c o r d s were stored in a v a u l t , t h u s being saved from either d a m a g e or d e struction. F r o m t h e subject of " D i s p e n s a t i o n s " we a r e pleased t o q u o t e t h e foUov/ing: During the year, I have received requests from a few lodges for dispensations to set aside or modify certain clauses or requirements of our Constitution. The reasons usually given were that through negUgence, either on the part of the applicant or of his lodge, the matter had not been attended to a t the proper time, and as a consequence a dispensation was desired to accommodate that situation. Needless to say, such applications were refused. Every ofiBcer and member of a lodge is instructed and obligated to maintain and abide by the Constitution, and, in my opinion, no deviations or modifications should be permitted, even by the Grand Master himself, unless some extraordinary circumstance arises which makes it imperative that he should do so. We are a democratic institution; every member of the Order has a share, directly or indirectly, in the compilation of our Constitution and once that Constitution has been adopted by Grand Lodge its provisions and requirements should be rigidly adhered to. If modifications are deemed necessary from time to time there Is an appropriate way in which it can be made to synchronize with our requirements.
We note the salary of the Grand Secretary was placed at $3,000 per annum. We take it this was due to a change in this officer, owing to the death of their faithful and efficient Brother S. Y. TAYLOR.
192
COBBESPONDENCE—ALBEBTA.,
February,
The Committee on Grand Secretary's Report, referring to their late Grand Secretary, had the following to say: Our late Brother was in harness to the end and from the contents of the present report it can readily be seen that his work was, as it has always been, ready and up-to-the-minute. He had completed his annual round of the fifteen district meetings and at them, while he little knew it, had made his farewell contribution in the several parts of our jurisdiction. He was on our business when the fatal seizure occurred and the brief but stirring reference in the present report shows us that he died as he lived, a gentleman and a Mason.
We take from the Report on Fraternal Dead the following: Since last we gathered here in convocation much has happened. Many times our hearts have been moved to joy and our wholesome laughter has spread the contagion of happiness to those with whom we came in contact. During that same time our hearts have been bowed down in deepest grief as we nave been startled by the realization that the spirit of many a brother has taken wing and flown into the mysterious flrmament of eternity. We know that some who have heretofore participated with us in our Grand I^odge are here no more. Death has few favors to bestow. With marked impartiality he has left his trail of blighted hopes, broken hearts, and sorrowing homes in every community where the fellowship of Masonry has found an abiding place. We grieve for our departed members. We miss their happy faces, their joyful voices, their warm handclasps, but our grief is softened by the faith that some day on the illimitable shores of time we shall again grasp their hands, look into nheir eyes and know that their hearts vibrating with friendship and fellowship, beat for us as in days of old, and that with hand clasped in hand we will again join in that grand chorus of " Auld iliang Syne."
From the earliest days of the world's youth, when the morning stars first sang together and every bush and tree was filled with the divine melody of feathered songsters, and every bud, blossom, and petal gave forth grateful perfume of adoration and love to the Creator of the Universe, when the first man looked into the cold and pallid face of the first dead human being, down to this moment, man in his bereavement has desperately called for some response from the loved ones who have passed into eternity, but the only answer has been the empty echo of a wailing cry. From the voiceless lips of the unreplylng dead there comes no word, but in the night of death, "hope sees a star and listening love can hear the rustle of an angel's wings." "Be.brave, O heart, be brave. It isnot strange that man survives the grave. 'Twould bo a stranger thing were he destroyed. Than that he ever vaulted from the void." Today, with loving thoughts and cherished memories, we recall those brethren who have heard the summons of the "muffled o a r " and endeavor from their virtues to develop our lives in the best and noblest and truest service: The virtues of their lives shall flow on forever, singing their own sweet song of friendship and fellowship, while along their course will spring fresh fragrant flowers of beauty, innocence and truth to adorn and lend a lasting glory to the cardinal principles of Masonry—Brotherly Love—Belief and Truth.
The
Report on Correspondence was prepared by their Past
Grand Master, P . S. SELWOOD, and the other members of his com-
1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—ARIZONA.
193
mittee. T h i s r e p o r t includes a review of our 1927 Proceedings p r e p a r e d b y B r o t h e r A. M . M I T C H E L L . ALEXANDER M . MITCHELL, M . ' . W . \ Grand Master, Edmonton. J. H . W . S. K E M M I S , R . ' . W . ' . G r a n d Secretary, Calgary. F . S. S E L W O O D , C o r r e s p o n d e n t , Convenor. N e x t A n n u a l , Calgary, J u n e 12, 1929.
ARIZONA—1928. Lodges, 3 6 ; m e m b e r s , 6,264; n e t gain, 181. T u c s o n , F e b r u a r y 14, 1928.
GEORGE EMET M C M I L L A N ,
M.-.W.-.
Grand Master. W e n o t e t h a t w h a t is ordinarily t e r m e d a " G r a n d C h a p l a i n " is listed a s G r a n d P r e l a t e in this G r a n d Jurisdiction. W e also n o t e t h e y list a m o n g t h e i r a p p o i n t i v e G r a n d Officers a G r a n d O r a t o r , G r a n d Bible B e a r e r a n d a G r a n d Organist. W e regret t o n o t e o u r G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e w a s n o t i n a t tendance a t this Communication. A m o n g other t h i n g s t h e G r a n d M a s t e r h a d t h e following t o . s a y • i n presenting h i s a n n u a l a d d r e s s : I can only say that it has been a very pleasant and active year. I am fully persuaded that to be the chief officer of this Grand Lodge is the highest honor that can come to any man. This year has been a happy one, happy, in that so great a measure of harmony has prevailed, and that the officers of this Grand Lodge have had health and strength to give to the service of this great organization. T h i s distinguished b r o t h e r h a s t o his credit t h e u n u s u a l r e c o r d of h a v i n g visited e v e r y Lodge in their G r a n d Jurisdiction. We n o t e u n d e r " D e c i s i o n s " t h e G r a n d M a s t e r h a s published t h e correspondence in full dealing with these m a t t e r s . T h i s is q u i t e u n u s u a l a s G r a n d M a s t e r s , as a rule, briefly s t a t e t h e decision a n d give t h e reasons therefor. U n d e r " R e c o m m e n d a t i o n s " t h e writer is a m u s e d a t t h e following p a r a g r a p h from t w o viewpoints, first, a s t a t e m e n t t h a t less t h a n t e n per cent of t h e m e m b e r s h a v e seen their n e w laws, a n d second, t h a t h e proposes t h a t each Lodge purchase a supply so t h a t t h e m e m bership can secure a copy b y paying a certain price therefor: We have had printed this year fifteen hundred copies of the Constitution and Collated Decisions a t a cost of 85 cents each. The Grand Secretary has been Instructed to distribute these to the Lodges for one dollar each delivered. I dare say that less than ten per cent of the members have seen this new Constitution and I recommend that each Lodge purchase a supply of these Constitutions and advocate the purchase of same by their members. We are too ignorant of the rules and regulations of this organization, and it is our fault for not insisting that the members become familiar with our Constitution.
194
CORRESPONDENCE—ARIZONA.
February.
T h e following no d o u b t will b e i n t e r e s t i n g t o o u r readers a s i t is coupled w i t h n o r e c o m m e n d a t i o n from t h e G r a n d M a s t e r a s t o how t h e case s h o u l d be disposed of: On making my olflcial visit to one of the Lodges I was very much sur* prised to sic in Lodge with a person who had been rejected in Clarkdale Lodge No. 25. I asked the Secretary about this Brother and he told me that he had been raised in that Lodge and I asked to see his application and noted that he had deliberately lied when h6 answered the question, " H a v e you ever been rejected by any Masonic Lodge?" I t just convinces me that these rejected candidates should be reported to the Grand Secretary immediately. And he should be consulted before acting on any candidate. As it is now, we do not investigate that part of the application and all a rejected candidate has to do is change to the jurisdiction of another Lodge. I would like to see some regulation passed to correct the present system that is being abused by persons who are overly anxious to join our Fraternity. I n o u r own Grand Jurisdiction we h a v e h a d similar cases in which i n s t a n c e s t h e L o d g e was ordered t o expel t h e i n d i v i d u a l who misrepres e n t e d facts i n presenting his petition. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r r e p o r t s t h a t t h e r e a r e several clandestine lodges i n o p e r a t i o n in their jurisdiction a n d t h a t t h e y a r e preaching t h e gospel of F r e e m a s o n r y . Briefly s t a t e d , h e covered t h e subject in t h e following words: There are several clandestine Lodges operating within our jurisdiction, and they are preaching t h e gospel of Masonry. I do not think they are interfering with us any more than the negro clandestine Lodges, or the Chinese Lodges. I feel that. .snmethiTig shmiiH hi^ do"e Tor these people v.'hc are hungry for Masonry. Let us put ourselves in their places, if a large per cent of the population were Americans and we were in a district in Mexico, we would be tempted to practice and preach Masonry at any price. Let us endeavor to do sometliing for these down-trodden people that are trying to see light, and I recommend chat a committee be' appointed by the incoming Grand Master to take this question up with the Committee on Jurisprudence and if necessary with the Grand Lodge, Pacific de Mexico, and try and outline some plan whereby we can correct this evil. T h e c o m m i t t e e t o whom this subject w a s referred passed t h e " b u c k " t o t h e incoming G r a n d M a s t e r . T h e i r faithful and v e t e r a n G r a n d S e c r e t a r y , B r o t h e r R O S K R U G B , s u b m i t t e d his usual detailed r e p o r t , which lacks n o t h i n g in t h e m a t t e r of s p r e a d i n g u p o n t h e p e r m a n e n t r e c o r d s a c o m p l e t e financial account for t h e p a s t year. A little later on we notice t h a t his salary was increased t o $1,800 a year. T h e writer p r e s u m e s t o a s k our b r e t h r e n of Arizona if t h e y were n o t a little l a t e in r e w a r d i n g t h i s faithful s e r v a n t ? A l a s ! Alas! L a t e r on in t h e Proceedings P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r B L E D S O E inf o r m e d t h e G r a n d Lodge of t h e serious illness of their G r a n d Secretary, Brother GEORGE JAMES ROSKRUGE.
1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—ARIZONA.
195
An interesting oration was delivered by W.\ Brother JAMES RAYMOND MALOTT, . and we feel justified in quoting therefrom the
following: The first point I wish to make is the distinction between Masonry and Masonic organizations. As every Mason knows, his Lodge owes allegiance to the Grand Lodge which has jurisdiction over It. Likewise, he is familiar with the. fact that in this country, at least, the several Grand Lodges have jurisdiction generally corresponding with their State boundaries. He knows, also, that the several Grand Lodges are absolutely independent of one another and that there is no supreme organization uniting them or having authority over them. Yet the Grand Lodges themselves are simply the organizations of Masonry and acknowledge something superior to their powers. As stated in the Constitution of this Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Arizona, t h e jurisdiction of this body is "limited by a strict adherence to the ancient landmarks of the Order." That limitation is and has been strictly obeyed as a matter of honor and of conscience. Moreover, Masons well know that when their organization departs from the ancient landmarks of our Order, that organization will cease to be Masonic, whatever name it may bear, and will cease to be recognized as a Masonic body by the other Grand Jurisdictions of the world. In his lectures on Masonic Jurisprudence, Brother ROSCOE POUND characterizes landmarks as a small, not clearly defined, body of fundamentals which are beyond the reach of change and which are in effect an unwritten constitution. Certain of our landmarks are accepted by all Grand Jurtsdictions, while others are questioned by our Masonic scholars. Some Masons place stress upon the landmarks or fundamentals appertaining to organization; others on those appertaining to our Ritualistic work, while still others stress the fundamentals underlying the philosophy of Freemasonry. In speaking on Masonry and Government, i t is the philosophy of Freemasonry that I wish especially to consider. The one outstanding landmark which is the basis of the Masonic philosophy Is our common belief in the fatherhood of GOD, which carries with it as a necessary sequence a belief in " t h e brotherhood of man." I would say, therefore, that Masonry—the philosophy—is based upon the theory that all men are brothers. But a mere belief or sentiment is of little value unless it shapes or controls our conduct. As has been stated so often, there may be a world of Masonic sentiment b u t little or no Masonry. So Masonry, to be of practical benefit, must be more than an ideal. I t must be a motive power, working for the realization of that ideal. In our teachings our attention is directed to brotherly love, since all men—not Masons alone—are the children of one Almighty Parent and should support, protecii and defend one another. We are presented with a level as an emblem of equality. The importance of justice to all men is impressed upon the minds of our initiates. However, just as t h e individual conception of Deity rnay and does vary, so does the conception of our Masonic philosophy vary. Masonry points to its emblems and its symbols, but for the most part leaves their interpretation to the individual. The most evident purpose of Freemasonry is the deal with the life and actions of the individual Mason and make him a better and truer man. Yet the object behind that purpose, in my opinion, is to prepare him for the larger work of Masonry,—to relieve the distressed, t o protect man from t h e oppressor, to bring about justice t o all men. One of the greatest practical infiuences having to do with man's betterment is government. Whatever may be the form of a particular government, it helps or hurts man's progress only as it makes possible equality, freedom to
196
COURESPONDENCE—ARIZONA.
February,
think and liberty to Uve a n d act according to the dictates of one's conscience, without limitation other than the rights of one's fellows. The purpose of government, or political science, as defined by ALBEKT P I K E , is to seek t o determine how political and personal freedom may be secured and perpetuated—freedom of thought and opinion, freedom from despotism of every kind. And to this extent political science and Masonry have a mutual aim. M y personal interest in the aspect of Masonry towards government was aroused by two coincidences. The first was the fact that the development'of speculative Masonry which in 1723 crystallized in the organization of the Grand Lodge of England, coincided with the movement which had for its object human freedom from despotism. The second coincidence was that the American Declaration of Independence, the American Revoiution and ohe American Constitution were so largely the work of individual Masons. At the time speculative Masonry first began to grow and develop. England was passing through a series of political experiences, as the result of which a certain measure of liberty, both political and reUgious, would be acquired only to bo lost timsafter time'I/'UIOUKU the despotism or Che King and the Church— either Catholic or Protestant. Individual liberty was not established as a right b u t depended upon t h e will of the ruler and his ability and power to enforce that will. Moreover, Church and State were supposed to be indissolubly united, to such an extent that every Mason was obliged, by our ancient charges, to be of the religion of his own country or nation. Prom the time of our adoption of the Constitution of 172.3, however. Masons were obligated to " t h a t religion in which all men agree," leaving their particular opinions to themselves. The importance of this step by Freemasonry cannot be over-emphasized, i'or although it appears to apply to religious freedom, in that age and time it was a startling political expression to the effect that liberty of conscience was of greater importance tlian the union of Church and State. The Grand Master ruled t h a t the Secretary of a Lodge should fitrnish the record of the standing of a member of a Lodge upon request, to the Order of the Eastern Star. The Grand Lodge, however, took an opposite -view and stood "four s q u a r e " and rightly so, that such information could only be given to Master Masons in good standing. In the memorials we find the name of our old friend and Brother RicKMER NICKELS FREDERICKS. H O W distinctly the writer calls to mind his pleasant visits with this distinguished brother at the several Triennial Convocations and Assemblies of our General Grand Chapter and General Grand Council. He was indeed a stalwart Mason and possessed a wonderful store of knowledge concerning Freemasonry. There is no Report on Correspondence. LLOYD C . HENNING, M . ' . W . - . Grand Master, Holbrook. GEORGE J. ROSKRUGE, R.-. W . ' . Grand Secretary, Tucson. Next Annual, Prescott, February 12, 1929.
1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—ARKANSAS.
197
ARKANSAS—1927. Lodges, 553; members, 36,264; net gain, 1,443. Little Rock, November 15, 1927. W. M. KENT,'M.-.",W.-.'Grand Master. Brother Louis BAUERLBIN, our faithful Grand Representative, was present. We quote the following from the Grand Master's address: The year just passed has been filled with momentous events for the brethren of this Grand Jurisdiction—with sorrow and distress for many for whom we entertain deep sympathy. Upon entering upon the duties of the office of Grand iVLaster, realizing that the state of my health and the infirmity of years would not permit me to sustain the entire burden of its duties, I requested our Grand Secretary, Brother FAV H E M I STEAD, to handle for me the routine matters of the office, which he has done in a very satisfactory manner and to my very great relief. The Grand Master had the following to say under the head of "Honorary Membership", and his views were approved by the Committee on Law and Usage: Very early in the year I deemed it advisable to issue a circular letter to our Lodges, relating to the practice in many of them, of making Honorary Members by automatic action; e g.. those who have reached a certain age; those who have paid dues for a specified number of years, or those who had served as Master of the Lodge. This circular was not intended to interfere with the right of any Lodge to place any one of its members upon the Honorary Membership list, but it was simply an admonition that the practice as outlined above is illegal. I hold that Honorary Memberships can only be conferred by specific, Individual action by the Lodge, and in no other manner. Honorary Membership as outlined herein, applies only to those who are already active members of a Lodge and does NOT refer to those who hold active membership in one lodge and as a mark of appreciation or distinction are elected to Honorary Membership in another lodge. Under our existing law, our lodges are not required to pay Grand Lodge or Masonic Home dues upon Honorary Members. This matter of creating Honorary Members, in such great numbers, has made serious inroads into the revenue of our Grand Lodge and Masonic Home. To offset this, I believe that all lodges should be required to pay dues on all Honorary Members carried on the roll at the return date; such Honorary Memberships, however, to be limited to those who are also active members of the same lodge. An invitation was presented to the Grand Lodge from Western Star Lodge No. 2 for the members of the Grand Lodge to attend a birthday party to be given November 28, 1927, in honor of Brother FAY HEMPSTEAD, their faithful Grand Secretary, it being his eightieth birthday. The following resolution concerning flood relief was adopted by the Grand Lodge: RESOLVED, That the hearty and undying gratitude and thanks of this Grand Lodge affld of all Masons in Arkansas be expressed to those generous brethren throughout the Masonic World who by the magnificent contributions
198
CORRESPONDENCE—ARKANSAS.
February,
made by them for the relief of sufferers by the unprecedented flood which devastated so large a part of the State of Arkansas during the spring of this year, made it possible to extend to sufferers therein the great relief and help which was given them; and we wish particularly to express our thanks and appreciation to the Flood Relief Board. Masonic, of New Orleans, for the prompt, the courteous and the efficient manner in which the.v handled the enormous fund whjch was confided to them and the difficult duties entailed upon them therein. We wish the entire Masonic World to know that their aid came to us in a time of our utmost destitution, and was a gracious relief in the suffering of a vast multitude of our brethren which we will ever be grateful for.
In the formal acceptance of the Orphans' Home from the Trustees at the time it was dedicated, we take pleasure in quoting the following from the address of M.-. W.-. Brother E. A. MCCULLOCH: This occasion is also an appropriate one for us to pause and consider what this accomplishment spells of the past and what it promises for the future. Whence comes this charity, and what inspired it? AVe answer that it is the child of Freemasonry, and that the fundamental teachings of that noble fraternity inspired it. It is the certain and logical result of the principal tenets of our order, which are Friendship, Morality and Brotherly Love. This is the philosophy of Freemasonry which justifies its existence, accounts for its antiquity and guarantees its perpetuity. The pride of Masonry is its universality as well as its antiquity. In all liistory, its parallel cannot be found. In all ages it has been the forerunner as well as the handmaiden of civilization, whose banner it has ever borne forward. Its footprints can be traced in the most distant regions of the earth and in the remotest ages of civilization. In every land and clime, under every flag and among every people, its existence iias not only bten recognized, but at tMs day Is highly favored. Wherever the magic word "fraternity" or its equivalent can be understood and appreciated, our brotherhood thrives. It was brought to American shores a t an auspicious moment and was rocked in the cradle of American liberty by WASHINGTON, FUANKLIN, HANCOCK and
WARREN and such as they. Unshaken by tempests of war, and unaffected by denunciations and persecutions of the past, it stands like the Bock of Ages, proudly erect in the clear light of Heaven without a blot or blemish upon Its fair brow. I t stands today jeweled with the dews of mornirg and graced with all the charm of youthful vigor and beauty. Its towers are gilded with the perpetual sunlight of success," and the body of its temple is redolent with the atmosphere of precious traditions. Splendid as is its liistoric glory, it is only when we enter the innermost shrine and catch the sweet spirit of charity and brotherly love that the compelling power of its merit is fully realized. The beautiful and impressive rites and ceremonies which outwardly clothe it, are insignificant as compared with the internal. I t is the difference between the temporal and the eternal, the material and the spiritual. Brother F A Y HEMPSTEAD was requested to address the Grand
Lodge, and we are pleased to quote the following written by him as poet laureate of Freemasonry: "Hear me. my Father; O listen while I pray; Grant me T h y favor; take all my guilt away; Thy love hath led me unto this day; Out of T h y mercy O hear me while I pray.
1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—BRITISH
COLUMBIA.
199
Long hath Thy guidance blest me year by year; Thy hand protects me, and I have naught to fear; Still Thy compassion to me display; Out of Thy mercy, O hear me while I pray. For all the bounty Thou hast given me. My heart is grateful forever unto Thee; Malce me be thauljful to Thee alway; Out of Thy mercy, O hear me while I pray. We note that in the future applicants for the degrees are not barred because of some physical defect they are unable to give the signs, steps and grips. We wonder how such individuals will pass the required examination in visiting Lodges when away from home. There is no Report on Correspondence. . H U N T E R D . BOWERS, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, El Dorado. F A Y HEMPSTEAD, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, Little Rock. Next Annual, Little Rock, November 17, 1928.
BRITISH COLUMBIA —1928. Lodges, 120; members, 14,900; net gain, 388. Vancouver, June 21, 1928. FRANK S . M C K B E , M.-. W . ' . Grand Master. Our Grand Representative, M.". W.-. Brother A. McC. CREERY, was present. We take pleasure in quoting the following from the Grand Master's address: To those members who are meeting wich us for the first time I wish to extend an especial welcome. You have been chosen and selected by your own Lodges to represent them and aid us in our deliberations. I t is your Grand Lodge, it is part of us and we are part of it, and by your presence among us you have assumed greater obligations to the Craft. I sincerely trust that this Grand Jurisdiction will be greatly benefitted and strengthened by your counsel and entLusiasm. It is a great privilege to have the honour of welcoming this splendid assemblage of Brethren to the Cit> of Vancouver. Having lived here for nearly thirty years, I am naturally an enthusiastic Vancouverite. Here on the shores of the great Paciflc, we enjoy the benefits of unrivalled climate and living conditions which make us the envy of many in less fortunate parts of the globe. From our beautiful landlocked harbour, which is guarded the year around by majestic snow-capped mountains, there flows a steady stream of commerce to all four corners of the earth. Our streets and market places teem with busy and energetic people, and our residential sections depict row upon row of cosy, contented homes, but as citizens of British Columbia, we look far beyond city limits—we look into the future. Vancouver is only one of our many centres and the gateway through which much of our future development must pass. In a glance we see our rugged mountains giving forth their riches from unlimited stores of ore; our vast resources of timber being manufactured into lumber and pulp wood; our seas and streams adding their quota of wealth; our valleys laden with the choicest of fruits; our farm lands bringing
200
CORRESPONDENCE—BRITISH
COLUMBIA.
February.
forth their golden harvests, and our hills and plains covered with flocks of sheep and droves of cattle. Have we not as citizens reason to be proud of our Province? And have we not as citizens a heavy responsibility? The history of our development In the past has been closely interwoven with the personal history of many prominent members of our Praternicy. They have laid for us a wonderful foundation upon which we must of necessity continue to build. In this connection I feel that never before has there been such a need for the re-discovcry of the significance of citizenship. The subject of citizenship is as old as the building of cities. When men began to settle and dwell in groups, then began the subject of citizenship. The language of ciitzeuship is the language of conduct— mutual conduct—It is a sense of mutual well-being. If we are anything, we are builders, and if we are building anything, it is citizens and cities—they go together. We, as Craftsmen, have it in our power to elevate and maintain the standards of citizenship by weaving a n d building into the character of our votaries the steadying and balancing influence of the principles and tenets of our Craft. Our standard should be such that every man, woman and child in this Province would recognize the D'reemason and the Masonic Craft, not to be praised, but as the real life of the community. In continuing our building, let us use the same care in selecting our material as the operative builder, rejecting all the defective materials and accepting only those who will be of strength to our structure.
The Grand Master was obliged to arrest the charter of one of their lodges on account of the lodge failing to follow the true principles of Freemasonry, and after the matter had been given due consideration b y the proper committee, the Grand Lodge unanimously voted to revoke the charter. Under the hc^d of "Re\'iev.'" the Grand J^aster had the fo^^owing to say: However, like all growing and healthy families, we are not without our trying periods. Possibly due to the activities of modern times, with their many organizations, our Craftsmen sometimes forget that our Fraternity is an Institution whose very strength lies in the fact that our regulations must remain unadulterated. If we are to maintain our strength and standing, there must be a strict adherence to our usages and customs. Fortunately the irregularities coming under my notice were few in number, but as a warning I wish to point out that such things as election slates, private cliques, determination on the part of proposers to have theii- applicant accepted, failure of Craftsmen to remember the diflTerence between Craft affairs and those of the so called higher degrees, and affairs of other organizations, open discussion of I^odge affairs in public places and the slandering of a Brother's name, have no place in Freemasonry, and if brought to notice, will not be tolerated. Freemasonry, like all other Institutions in this progressive age, is in danger of being caught in the trend of modern times. Due to our great Increase in membership in the last few years, we have in our midst men who are disappointed in Freemasonry. Possibly we have been to some extent at fault. Too much haste in making members, not enough care in selection, and too little attention paid to qualifications before advancement, have not been in the best interests of the Fraternity. Cratfsmen have a tendency to forget that our Fraternity was founded and built in the past, and has been carried down tlirough succeeding generations b.v certain well defined usages, customs, regulations and landmarks. Its principles and tenets so wisely perfected in the dim past, are just as applicable to-day as in the years gone by, and any attempt to modernize our Institution, to allow it to take an active part in community work, or in affairs of reUgiou or State, must necessarily weaken our whole structure. We
1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—CANADA.
201
are training men, men of character and intelligence, who must of necessity Influence public and private affairs. If our Craftsmen carried our tents and principles into their daily lives, there would be no difBculty in determining our stand in any matters or problems that confronted us. As an Institution, Freemasonry is judged by the outside world by the character of its individual members, by their conduct as men, as members of a community, and as citizens of the State. The danger we have to guard against is that of lowering the bars of our Fraternal standards and allowing a large penetration of individuals with neither the training nor inclination along the lines of our ancient landmarks—men who are not first "made Masons in their hearts." Our duty to-day is to perpetuate the traditions and ideals of the Craft, and hand on our Institution to succeeding generations with a greater conception of Brotherhood, and a more profound veneration of the Great Architect of the Universe.
We find several pictures of Masonic halls located in some of the smaller places in their jurisdiction. The Report on Correspondence was again prepared by their Grand Secretary, Brother W. A. DBWOLF-SMITH, and we only regret
that space will not permit of quoting some of his interesting references to the transactions in other Grand Jurisdictions. Speaking for our own, he has complimented us with several pages of his splendid report, favoring the writer by quoting largely from his preface to the report made one year ago. We feel highly complimented. ROBERT BAIRD, M . ' . W.-. Grand Master, Victoria.
W. A. DBWOLP-SMITH, R . ' . W.-. Grand Secretary^and
Corres-
pondent, New Westminster. Next Annual, Victoria, June 20, 1929.
CANADA—1928. Lodges, 517; members, 112,401; net gain, 1,852. London,
July
18, 1928.
JOHN
S . MABTIN,
M . - . W.-. Grand
Master. We regret to note the absence of our Grand Representative a t this Communication. They were honored at this Communication in having as distinguished guests M . ' . W . \ Brother HENRY WILLIS, Grand Master of Quebec, and R.'. W.". Brother EDWIN SMITH, Grand First Princi-
pal of the Grand Chapter of Canada. From the address of the Grand Master we take pleasure in quoting the following: Many of the men who performed these miracles are still with us. Their hands, twisted and calloused, bear silent testimony t o their superhuman efforts and long days of ceaseless toil. The beautiful farm homes which they have left behind are a monument to them. They came here empty-handed but with courageous and hopeful hearts, and t h e work which they have done will en-, dure.
202
CORRESPONDENCE—CANADA.
February,
Early in the history of this Province there were men here and there who, realizing that man cannot live by bread alone, set about the task of caring for his spiritual, educational and social needs. Churches and schools were built and immediately Masonic Lodges began to spring up, their Warrants being obtained from the Grand Lodges of England, Ireland and Scotland. These early Masons, who also were pioneers, laid the foundation for a splendid masonic structure. I have always felt that they did a wonderful service for Canada. T h e history of this Grand Lodge and the great man, WILLIAM MERCER WILSON, who was our first Grand Master, is a most interesting narrative. The manner in which these great Masons guided the destinies of Freemasonry, facing opposition and overcoming difficulties of all kinds, should be an inspiration to every one of us. They built upon the broad foundation of tolerance and good-will and the subsequent marvellous growth of the Order is no doubt due to the good judgment and wisdom which they displayed. I have always held a great respect, almost approaching reverence, for these pioneers of Masonry and we are honoured to-day by the presence of a great number of them. The pioneer Masons were real builders and we, their successors, acknowledge our debt and tender them our heartfelt gratitude.
Referring to closer relations among the different jurisdictions in their own country he submitted the following: For a number of years I have felt that there is not enough personal contact among the different Masonic Jurisdictions of Canada. We do not know each other nearly as well as we should and the criticism has been made to me on more than one occasion, that we, in the Grand Lodge of Canada in Ontario, are too self-centered and that we do not take the friendly interest in the other Jurisdictions that we should. I think. Brethren, that this criticism is quite unwarranted. From personal knowledge, I have found that the Brethren of our G"r?."d T.r>rl(7A nrp fnllnwring with kftftn intftre.«:t a,nd nridft the procress of our sister Grand Lodges. However, this is a large Jurisdiction and a busy one. Distances in Canada are great, while time and money are important considerations. The difficulty is farther increased by conflicts in the dates of meeting of the various Grand Lodges, which m a k e i t impossible for a Grand Master to visit as many of them as he could wish during his term of office. In my trip . to Western Canada during the present year I was unable to attend more than two of the Grand Lodges in that section of our great country. A similar condition prevails in the Eastern Provinces, where the Grand Lodges meet at almost the same times as those in the West. I t seems to me that it would be in the interest, not only of Masonry but of a closer understanding among the various parts of our far-flung Dominion, if something could be done to facilitate and encourage a regular exchange of visits among all of our Canadian Grand Lodges.
Referring to the accomplishments of the past in their own jurisdiction he had the following to say: We are proud of the achievenients of the past but we realize that we are more vitally interested in the possibiUties of the future. In this connection I should like to point out the great opportunity for service open to the Past Masters of Lodges. I have noticed quite a tendency among Masters to consider that their duty toward Masonry has been fulfilled when they retire from office. This, Brethren, is all wrong. When you have gone through the different chairs and have filled the office of Worshipful Master, the experience which you have gained has made you a most valuable member of your lodge. My general observation has been that those lodges are doing the best work where they have a strong group of active Past Masters. The Past Masters, because of their knowledge and experience, are charged with the maintenance of the stand-
1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—CANADA.
203
ards, the dignity, traditions and landmarks of Masonry. Masonry has done much for you. May you ever be mindful of your duties and responsibilities to the Craft!
Under the head of "Membership" he closes with the following remarks: We must establish his moral and intellectual fitness by those, preferably Masons, with whom he associates in his dally vocation. The Worshipful Master is responsible for naming the Committees of Investigation. Greater care might be exercised in the appointment of these Committees. It is not a work for the young and inexperienced Mason but rather for the skill and maturer judgment of the senior members and officers of the lodge. Let us remember that Free Masonry requires to-day, as never before, an increasingly high standard of excellence in its membership, and this can only be achieved by admitting men who will maintain its dignity, be receptive to its teachings and loyal to its traditional precepts and ideals. W e t a k e t h e following from t h e subject of " M a s o n i c L i b r a r i e s " which n o d o u b t will a p p e a l t o our own m e m b e r s h i p : We say of Masonry that it is a "progressive science" and the words are profoundly true. There is a logical sequence In the system, a sort of natural progress in the advancement of the candidate through the several degrees. Masonry is '' progressive'' too in the sense in which life itself is a progress. We accept its plain and simple morality with ready acquiescence, perhaps without a great deal of reflection. It is only as we grow in years and experience that we feel and know its real application and come to understand its full significance. But there is another sense in which it is progressive to those who have been actively engaged in the work of the Craft, and my experience of the past year has given me a new conception of the possibilities of Masonry, its far-reaching: influence in our individual and social life. Each of us will interpret that> influence as he sees or feels it. The thing that has appealed to me is its steady-ing power, its sense of proportion, its standard of values. For Masonry has; more than its historical authority to commend it. Without being dogmatic,, either in spirit or in form, it places an unerring finger on the things that count and the things that do not, and assigns to each its proper place in the scheme^ of human 'life. A sense of proportion, a standard of values, we need them mostwhen old systems have passed away and it remains to be seen what will ariseto take their place. I t would seem at times as if the homely virtues, the simple pleasures, had lost their power to interest and attract. The man who has lived a quiet, useful life, who has gone about doing good, slips unnoticed from the scene, while wealth, popular favour and applause are the portion of those who minister to our craving for excitement. And yet one feels beneath it all a growing seriousness of purpose, a desire for those things that have a permanent value. It is a time for sober thinking and for honest speaking—a time to keep in mind the injunction of the great letter writer of the New Testament. "Prove all things! hold fast that which is good."
The Board on Fraternal Dead, among other things, presented the following: Once again the ever-rolling stream of time brings this Grand Lodge to that hour consecrated by long usage when we pause for a little while to remember those of our brethren who, with us in the flesh just one brief year ago, have set out upon the great adventure since last we met. Again and yet again during the past twelvemonth the iron door of death has opened co admit those of the
204
CORRESPONDENCE—CANADA.
February,
household of t h e faithful whose work on earth has ended; the empty chairs speak to us of many loved long since and now lost awliile; the gaps are all about us. While we hasten to close our ranks and to press forward in the important tasks t h a t lie before us. It is b u t natural that we should ask—"Watchman, what of the night when the arrow of death is sped? " '• Give me the wings of faith to rise Within the veil and see The saints above, how great their joys. How bright their glories be." *
3|(
*
*
*
4<
Surely it is but. natural that our frail humanity should mourn the passing of those we know so well, but surely too we mourn not as those without hope. And a t these times when the shadows of the evening lie across our skies It is for us to cherish the thought that out of each nighc fresh dawns arise; that GOD is merciful and compassionate; and that those who have gone before are with Him. For us then should it not suffice to say— " I f there be GOD and heaven, I would not lift A futile hand to push aside the bars That guard their mystery. But 1 would live With eyes upon the everlasting stars In deep humility; and strive and strive— And leave the rest to GOD." t)ver the tomb of Sir CHBrsTOPHER WHEN in St. Paul's Cathedral is carved the inscription "Si monumentum quaeris, circumspice"—if you seek his monument look aroand you. And wliat better epitaph could be found for those of our brethren who have departed? J^'or the nistory oi almost ail oi them will show that the building of our Masonic structure was their chief aim, that Masonry and all that it stands for was nearest to their hearts, and that to it they devoted year after year their strength, their skill, their highest efforts. I t has been well said t h a t Masonry to-day is what it is because of the selfsacrifice and devotion of t h e elder brethren. And it is surely true that if we have a high conception of the Craft, if Masonry comes well prepared^ to the tasks t h a t confront her in these later days, it is because we have sat a t the feet of an older generation who placed the fraternity in the forefront of their lives. From failing hands they pass the torch to us. GOD grant we may prove worthy of the trust. Brother WILLIAM N I S B E T PONTON prepared the usual Report on
Correspondence and in it we note an interesting review of our 1928 Proceedings. JOHN S . MARTIN, M . - . W . ' . Grand Master, Port Dover. WILLIAM M . LOGAN, R.-. W.". Grand Secretary, Hamilton. WILLIAM N . PONTON, Correspondent.
Next Annual, Ottawa, July 17, 1929.
1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—COLORADO.
205
COLORADO —1927. Lodges, 147; members, 32,729; net gain, 603. Denver, September 20, 1927. FRANK J. REINHARD, M . - . W.". Grand Master. Brother WILLIAM H . SANFORD, our Grand Representative, was present. The Grand Lodge ordered greetings sent to two of their absent Grand Masters—M.'. W.-. CHASE WITHROW, who served as Grand Master in 1866, and M.'. W.'. WILLIAM T . BRIDWELL, who served in that capacity in 1889. The Grand Master oflFered the following remarks in submitting his annual address: Many questions submitted to me might have been more sliillfully handled. I have tried to give you my best and to shape the course taken in all things determined with the sole object of advancing the best interests of Freemasonry, which I firmly believe to be today, as it has been for centuries past, ''incomparably the greatest factor for good citizenship which human experience has known." He refers to the passing away of their Past Grand Masters, M.'. W.'. JOHN M . MAXWELL, Grand Master in 1891, and M.". W.". WILLIAM N. VAILE, who served in t h e Grand East in 1924. Their Benevolent Fund was enhanced through the gift of CHARLES H. BUTLER, almost $2,000.00, and from Brother H. J. VANWETERING, $10,000.00. Under the head of "Use of Unauthorized Halls" the Grand Master had the following to say which we consider quite interesting and it will no doubt be appreciated by our readers: In compliance with the request of the Worshipful Master of a Denver Lodge, on January 25, 1927,1 granted my special permission for the holding of a Special Communication of that Lodge in the Auditorium of the Number One Scottish Bite Bodies of Denver on the afternoon and evening pf Thursday, February 24, 1927. Invitations had been extended to the officers and members of another I/Odge to confer the Third Degree at that time; the regular Lodge hall was not sufflcieutly large to accommodate the anticipated attendance and none of the duly authorized Masonic halls of Denver were available for use at the time. I made an official visit to the Denver Lodge a t this Communication and became convinced that a mistake had been made in authorizing the use of the Auditorium for the purpose and under the circumstances prevailing. There was an undignified rush for admission to the hall, which made efficient tiling very difficult, and an unseemly general exodus a t the close of the second section which was mortifying to behold. Overdramatlzation of the Masonic Degrees, in my opinion, is contrary to the spirit of the Institution. Seemingly the tendency to overdramatize is difficult, if not impossible, to control in the presence of a large crowd assembled in unfamiliar surroundings. The atmosphere smacks of the theater or the circus and the reverent attention to wUch we are accustomed in our Masonic halls is conspicuous by its absence.
206
CORRESPONDENCE—COLORADO.
February,
On March 4,1927,1 directed the Grand Secretary to notify all of the Denver lodges that, in my opinion, the interests of the Craft would be best served by my refusing all requests for permission to hold Lodge Communications in haUs other than those duly approved and regularly used for such purposes, and instructed him to not'fy the Denver Lodges that the auditoriums of the two Scottish Rite Cathedrals in Denver are not so approved and their use would not be permitted.
Under the head of "Masonic Advertising" he stretches forth his hand of protection against the barnacles who would use our time honored Institution for advertising purposes. Referring to Sunday picnics, among other tilings, he had the following to say: In the eyes of the profane. Masonry stands sponsor for "Masonic" affairs. Individual members of the Craft, of course, are entitled to the fullest liberty of action, but in my opinion, '"Masonic Sunday Picnics," given under the auspices of any Alasonic Organization serve no good purpose, shoclt the sensibilities and. offend the consciences of some members of the very organization sponsoring, the outings and ought not be permitted. A s p l e n d i d o r a t i o n was delivered b y R.'. W.-. B r o t h e r W I L L D . G R I S A R D , a n d from it we t a k e p l e a s u r e in q u o t i n g t h e following: Loyalty is to be faithful-to a government, or to be true to plighted faith, or duty, or love. From the oldest charges we have at hand, Masons are admonished to be loyal citizens, true to the civil authorities, and faithful to the lodge and to each other. From the first formation of society of which we have a record one of the principal tenets of the guilds that were forined for mutual aid and protection, was loyalty. Loyalty to the cMefman or ruier, loyalty to the guild or associaiion, loyalty to the several members, and loyalty to one's family and self. This was one of the sworn duties, and was rigidly enforced, an infringement of which was often punishable by death. This is especially true at the times of the Medes and Persians, the Egyptians and others. In Egypt we learn from the records left from their former glory, which at the present time are decipherable by the learned professors, versed In the Egyptian language, the Ke.v to the characters upon the monuments, temples, etc., being furnished by the Bosetta Stone found by the French soldiers, over a hundred years .ago, and which now reposes in the British Museum, Loyally was paramount. By the aid of this stone the Egyptian alphabet was gained and the history of Egypt becomes an open book to these learned professors. During the darlc ages Loyalty was rigidly enforced, and partly due to this action wliich became one of the landmarks of Masonry, we are indebted for the pure and untrammeled condition, we at the present time receive Masonry in all its beauty and loveliness. Due to the erratic condition of society and its accompanying insidious organizations. Masonry is being honeycombed, and its ancient landmarks and time-honored customs are fast losing their influence which heretofore has meant so much to civilization. An organization tliat has passed through the trials and cribulaticns of the past centuries and has su,rvived all, and now appears in all its splendor and beauty without any vicissitudes or changes in its chaiacter. teachings, etc., with the landmarks still as of old, untrammeled, and unchanged by time, is indeed a heritage of which we may all feel proud, and being the possessors of which, it is our (I'lty, our obligation, our responsibility, our trusi., to pa.ss on to our successors, in the same condition as it was in the days of old, not permitting
1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—CONNECTICUT.
207
any of the isms, or ideas of the present day to creep In, thus to spoil its simplicity and beauty. Today when there are so many offshoots, or branches of Masonry, so many leeches hanging on t o Masonry, having as a prerequisite t o membership good standing In Masonry, that it behooves us to be very guarded and careful, lest our time-honored institution suffer greatly at their hands. Again we are to be guarded lest membership in the modern, up-to-theminute, as they say and advertise, organizations, either patriotic, civic, or sectarian in their principles, cause us to shamefully lose sight of our obligations to Masonry, and to the loyalty that we owe this time-honored institution, thus becoming Masons only in name. Bearing in mind the good to be found in the. modem organizations of the present day, let us not forget our obligation, and our duty we owe to Masonry, our loyalty to this intsitution and our loyalty to each other, 4ihat when our time shall come to be numbered with those other brothers in the silent halls of death, it may be said, " H e was a good man and a true Mason." During all the ages the best men have found it convenient to give Masonry their time, their thought, and their support. T h e j o u r n a l c o n t a i n s a likeness of their P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r C R O M W E L L T U C K E R , a n d a biographical s k e t c h of his life. T h e writer h a d t h e pleasure of enjoying a w a r m personal friendship with B r o t h e r T U C K E R for a l m o s t forty-five y e a r s . While t h e likeness does n o t reflect his a p p e a r a n c e during t h e l a t t e r p a r t of his life i t is a splendid one when we refer back t o our early a c q u a i n t a n c e which began in S e p t e m b e r , 1883, in t h e old hall a t t h e corner of F i f t e e n t h a n d H o l i d a y Streets in D e n v e r . T h e y also did honor t o t h e m e m o r y of their P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r s J O H N W I L L S M A X W E L L a n d J O H N N E W E L L BAILE.
T h e R e p o r t on Correspondence wgs again p r e p a r e d b y B r o t h e r STANLEY C . W A R N E R , a n d we are u n d e r obligations for a brief review of our 1927 P r o c e e d i n g s . JOHN ANDREW, M . ' . W . - . Grand Master, Longmont. WILLIAM W . COOPER, R.-. W . - . Grand Secretary, Denver. STANLEY C . W A R N E R , Correspondent, Denver.
N e x t Annual, Denver, September 18, 1928.
CONNECTICUT-1928. Lodges, 120; m e m b e r s , 45,495; n e t gain, 386. H a r t f o r d , F e b r u a r y 1, 1928.
THEODORE FOSTER, M . - . W . - . Grand
Master. T h e writer is absolutely unable t o reccncile t h e m e m b e r s h i p in t h i s jurisdiction w i t h t h e t w o tables s u b m i t t e d b y B r o t h e r KlES for t h e r e a s o n t h a t in his statistics he reports a m e m b e r s h i p of 45,241, while in t h e a b s t r a c t of r e t u r n s it is shown as 45,495. H e refers t o corrected figures in a recapitulation; however, we fail t o find it. K a n s a s w a s r e p r e s e n t e d at this C o m m u n i c a t i o n b y R.'. W.'. B r o t h e r H O W A R D A.
MIDDLETON.
208
COBBESPONDENCE—CONNECTICUT.
February,
The Grand Master had but little to say in submitting his annual address; however, we take pleasure in quoting the following: As we approach the end of the fourteenth decade of our existence as a Grand Lodge let us resolve to rededicate ourselves to greater effort and higher achievement so t h a t at t h e end of the next ten years we may look back with a greater feeling of satisfaction and forward with the Inspiration of higher hopes.
Under their law an affiliation fee of $20.00 is charged and the Grand Master ruled that this fee should be paid notwithstanding the fact that the brother'in question had taken out his dimit, moved to another Grand Jurisdiction and then returned to Connecticut and desired to again become a member thereof. He also ruled that lodges could exact voluntary pledges for the erection of a MaScr.ic Temple to the hazard of the good standing of the brother who failed to fulfill his agreement. Under the head of "The Colors" the following no doubt will be of interest to our readers: The use of our Flag simply for ornament by the ignorant or thoughtless tends to destroy or at best impair its significance. The indiscriminate use of a group of Flags on the front of an automobile is contrary to the Flag code and by thus subjecting them to rain, dust and the tattering action of the wind shows n, lack of respect for the emblem of our country.
The writer not only agrees fully with the above, but takes the position t h a t if wc had mors real red blooded Americans holding the exalted offices in our government our own Colors; representing the highest type of civilization, would not be traduced. There seems to be no limit for the use of the Stars and Stripes as they are now used not only to decorate automobiles but are used for commercial purposes, and it is a common occurrence to see our grand old Flag lying on the streets or in t h e gutters. Under "Observations and Recommendations" we take pleasure in quoting the following: To one holding the office of Grand Master comes as a matter of course, many questions as to policy and the needs of the fraternity and in the solution of problems presented, he obtains an insight into the general state of the Craft, leading him to form certain opinions relative to the welfare of Individual Masbns, lodges and the jurisjdiction. As stated to you in my salutatory of last February, I believe and am more than ever convinced that we as Masons must turn our thoughts to the fundamental principles upon which our fraternity is based: must return as it were to the ideas and tenets of our brethren of olden time^. Only by serving our GOD, our country, our lodge and our fellow men with freedom, fervency and zeal; by practicing to the best of our abilities the cardinal virtues—temperance, fortitude, prudence and justice and the great principles on which the fraternity stands and upon which it is builded, brotherly love, relief and truth—making them a part of our very beings, our sacred personalities, may we be deserving of the name—Freemason.
1928-29.
CoBBESPONDENCE—DELAWARE.
209
The last few years have seen the erection of many beautiful imposing Temples. In some cases the need for new and larger halls was real but in others a lack of perspective has led to extravagance. Vast sums expended, heavy debts incurred burdening this and succeeding generations too heavily lead me to say that the time may come when there will be need of some supervision by the Grand Lodge. Brethren, when there is so much want and real need in the world, Masonry teaches us that our first duty—our happiness— lies in relief; let us think well before investing too heavily in material things. One of the weaknesses of our Blue Lodge is the great number of Masonic bodies based thereon. If the members who are active in these would use the same thought, time and energy in the fundamental Masonic Lodge, Masonry would be a greater power, attendance improve and a general raising of the morale result. We have many lodges with too large a membership. As a result t h e members are not in close personal touch with their fellows—are strangers to many.
In dealing with the subject of the proposed adoption of a system of trials by commission, the Committee on Jurisprudence recommended that the proposition be referred to the lodges for an expression of opinion as to the advisability of using this form for conducting trials. Our Grand Lodge adopted this system two years ago and up t o the present time i t has been perfectly satisfactory in every respect. Their Grand Secretary, Brother GEORGE A. K I E S , Past Grand
Master, prepared the usual Report on Correspondence, and we note that he is laboring under the impression that the writer is not satisfied with our present system of transfer of membership. Such was the case prior to the time of amending our law and the way it is now handled it is eminently satisfactory and with the assistance of the Grand Secretary we are absolutely preventing the inadvertance of dual membership.
Should Brother K I E S be interested we will be pleased
to send him a copy of our law on this subject. liberal reference to our 1927 journal.
His review includes a
ROBERT S . WALKER, M . \ W.". Grand Master, Waterbury. GEORGE A. K I E S , R . ' . W . ' . Grand Secretary and Correspondent,
Hartford. Next Annual, Hartford, February 6, 1929.
DELAWARE —1927. Lodges, 22; members, 6,010; net gain, 55. Wilmington, October
5, 1927.
HARRY GALBRAITH, M . - . W . - .
Grand Master. We take pleasure in noting that our Grand Representative, M.-. W.'. Brother A. VICTOR HUGHES, was present.
In the list of the brethren present, exclusive of the representatives, we observe a complete record is made of these brethren.
210
CORRESPONDENCE—DELAWARE.
February,
giving their names and the number of t h e lodges of which they are members. The Grand Master began his address with the following words: Another year has passed. A year In which sorrow and joy have Indeed alternated in our hearts like clouds and sunshine in the sky. Richer in knowledge, gained in the school of experience, we meet together in the earnest hope that we may gain and give through our deliberations and association, and through personal contact, a clearer vision, an added courage, that our sympathies may be quickened, and that we may be strengthened in every noble and fraternal impulse and resolve. Under "Decisions" we note one concerning assessments made by Grand Lodge, and on this subject he had the following to say: An assessment made by the Grand Lodge gives a Constituent Lodge power to assess its'members the amount required, if there is no other way to finance the payment. The Grand Lodge supercedes Lodge Law, and each Master Mason has obligated himself to obey Grand Lodge Law, and if a member does not answer a summons, he may, after a trial a n d conviction, be suspended for disobeying same and violating his obligation as a Master Mason. We take pleasure in quoting the following from his conclusion: Freemasons may well ask, what is to be the future of the Craft? Everything advances, improves, broadens and Freemasonry must keep step with the inarch of mankind or fall by the wayside. Masonry must adapt itself to the demands of the age in order to be effective in the fulfillment of the great pur.pose for which it e.'cists and which alone can justify its existence, if, therefore, our young men are to serve J^'reemasonry, and make it effective for its high and noble end, they must be taught what Freemasonry is, whence it came, what it brought to us from the remote past, and what it is trying to accomplish so we can apply its spirit and teachings to the problems of the day. While carefulness in the selection of candidates will at least to a considerable extent eliminate the opportunist, the vain and selfish hypocrite, it requires an effective program of Freemasonry education to arouse interest among the brethren in order to overcome that inertia and apathy which paralyzes Masonic thought and action. The future of Freemasonry lies in the bringing of the wisdom of the past to the service of the present, in teaching the truth which makes men free "with malice toward none, with charity for all." Thus showing in the quality of our private lives and by pubUc service what Freemasonry means, and if rightly understood, the kind of citizens i t produces. In short, we must form Freemasonry into a body of men initiated, obligated and trained to make liberty, justice and brotherly love prevail, to attain the truth, and to serve our fellows, our country and mankind is the noblest destiny of man. We note t h a t M.-. W.-. CHARLES H . CALAHAN, Past Grand Master of Virginia, was made an honorary member of the Grand Lodge of Delaware, and in acknowledgment of the honor we note t h a t he addressed the Grand Lodge in behalf of the George Washington Masonic National Memorial Association. Rather an unusual expression of gratitude.
1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—DISTRICT
OF COLUMBIA.
211
From the report of the Committee on Necrology we are pleased to quote the following: When the routine of existence is suddenly interrupted by the loss of loved ^ones; when our souls are steeped in the shadow of sorrow, we are prone to think more deeply upon ihe mysteries and verities of life. In such moments skeoti•cism and doubt creep into our consciousness. The bulwark of faith t h a t belief and intuition have erected within us begins to weaken and crumble. Then it is that Masonry comes to our aid and bolsters up our wavering spirits. For Masonry is ever teaching us that there is a completeness in the Divine plan. The Temple upon Mount Moriah was a perfect structure. I t was so complete in all of its parts that it seemed to bear the imprint of Divine artistry. I t is such a model as this that the .S. A. O. T. U. bids us follow in building the Temple •of Life. But mortal man never .reaches a state of perfection. He feels within him a mighty i.rge in that direction, but as he grows in wisdom and in appreciation of goodness his conception of perfection broadens and deepens, and the goal constantly recedes Into the distance. It is like a mirage in the desert, ever beckoning us on from the oases of self-satisfaction. Masonry helps man to conquer the fear of death, and encourages him to look upon its visitation as an invitation to enter further upon the adventure of faith. The mason believes with all his soul that if he has sought t o mold his life according t o the plans laid down by the Master Workman, t h e life beyond holds for him naught but good. Greater opportunities for growth will be his portion, and he will then come into the fullest possession of Truth. There he expects to find the songs he longs to sing; there he hopes t o realize the visions that haunt his heart; there he will accomp^ish the task set before him by the Master Teacher: " B e ye therefore perfect even as your Father which is in Heaven is perfect." '' I know not what the future hath Of marvel or surprise. Assured alone that life and death His mercy underlies." The Report on Correspondence was again prepared by Brother THOMAS J. DAY, and he was very considerate in granting a liberal amount of space-to our 1927 Proceedings. WELDON C . WAPLES, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, Milton. JOHN F . ROBINSON, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, Wilmington. THOMAS J. DAY, P.-. G.-. M.-., Correspondent, Wilmington. Next Annual, Wilmington, October 3, 1928.
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA— 1927. Lodges, 34; members, 23,264; net gain, 271. Washington, May 11, 1927. GRATZ E . DUNKUM, M.-.W.-.Grand Master. At this Communication the brethren were reminded of the death of their Past Grand Master, B E N W . MURCH, which occurred on May 7, 1927. They also received the report of t h e Committee on Jurisprudence which did not seem to meet with favorable consideration as two im-
212
CORRESPONDENCE—DISTRICT
OF COLUMBIA.
February.
portant proposed.amendments to their laws were rejected. They did, however, recommend, and the Grand Lodge approved of an amendment to their laws providing for a transfer of membership before the issuance of a regular dimit. Having had several years of experiencealong this line the writer is inclined t o believe t h a t the law as adopted by the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia is so full of holes that it will not meet the expectations of t h e brethren. The Annual Communication was held on December 21, 1927,. with Brother GRATZ E . DUNKUM, Grand Master, presiding. From his address we take pleasure in quoting the following: As Masons, we should ever remember that we are members of one great family whose interests are identical and whose high aims and purposes can only be attained by a whole-hearted and generous cooperation. As the supreme authority in any Masonic jurisdiction, it is fundamental that the Granrl Tjodse shall have the ultimate and final decision on all matters affecting the welfareof the Fraternity within it. This basic principle has been upheld and recognized during the past year in matters to which I need not refer in detail and which I mention now in order that there may be in the permanent minutes of our proceedings a record of such upholding and recognition. Reports of t h e activities of our sister jurisdictions which have reached us from time to time during t h e year show that our Fraternity everywhere is actively engaged in its splendid work for the betterment of mankind. I n the last decade Freemasonry has not only increased in numbers far beyond all our expectations, but i t has multiplied wonderfully its humanitarian activities and has enlarged the field of its endeavors. At no time in its history perhaps has its universality been more in evidence nor has a closer union existed between our several grand jurisdictions. Appeals for assistance from our .strirlfon brethren iii diuereut parts 01 our country have met with a generous and widespread response and it is not too much to say that t h e vision of united Masonry working for the common good along proper and approved lines is nearer realization than ever before. If I might be allowed the realization of my fondest Masonic wish it would be that the future would hold for our great Fraternity such wise leadership and such unselfish guidance and direction as would implant in the heart of every true citizen of our country an appreciation of the privileges which he enjoys under our free and enlightened government, an unshaken loyalty to its teachings and principles, a n d the application in his daily life of those rules of conduct toward his fellowmen which Freemasonry strives to inculcate. Under the head of " Condition of the F r a t e r n i t y , " among other things, he had the following to say: While the number of petitioners who have knocked a t our doors during the past year is less than its immediate predecessor, this is not, in my opinion, a matter which should give us any concern. I have frequently stated that although I would be wilhng t o see every man who is a Mason a t heart apply for t h e Masonic degrees, it rejoices me t o believe those who do apply are men of the type whose admission to our numbers will add strength to our ranks and will prove an addition to the working power of t h e Fraternity instead of a drag upon its efforts. There is one item in the report which, however, does give me concern and t h a t is the continued large number who are dropped from our roUs annually for non-payment of dues. During the past year 493 brethren were so dropped and I have taken occasion at practically all of our grand visitations to speak on this subject I have called the attention of the brethren to the fact that
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I liuow of no instance in all my connection with Masonry where a brother was dropped because of his inability to malie payment. I thinli that a remedy for this undesirable condition will be found when we have educated our membership up to the point where they realize what it means to have their names dropped from the Lodge roll and the damage which is done to their business reputations tlirough this action and the resulting publicity wliich our regulations now require.
We believe the following under the head of "Masonic Board of Relief" is worthy of being reproduced in this'report and we therefore quote it: I have thought for some time that our Board of Relief should receive more personal attention on the part of our membership and t h a t they should be better advised concerning the splendid worls wliich it does. Under its present organization, each Lodge selects two members as its representatives on the Board and it is expected that the brethren so selected shall actively participate in its worlc. My observation is that the number of these representatives who perform the duties expected of them is comparatively small and such shiould not be the case. The worl£ of the Board is important and of great value if properly performed and, however efHcient its officers may be, and I know they are efl&cient, it is unfair to place upon them the entire burden of this philanthropic' worli. The work of the Board may be divided into two classes, namely, to grant relief to worthy distressed brethren and to prevent the undeserving, and the impostor from profiting at the expense of the Fraternity. The President and Secretary of the Board are most faithful and zealous in its work and they should have the active support of every brother who has been selected by his lodge as its representative. I earnestly hope that a proper appreciation of their responsibilities will result in securing such cooperation. Under the present plans, definite assignments of dates to the representatives of the several lodges have been made and I recommend t h a t the Board be authorized and directed by the Grand Lodge to notify the Masters of lodges of all absenteeism on the part of the representatives and that it shall then be the duty of the Master to make due inquiry into the cause of the failure of the brother to perform his assigned duty.
The term "Masonic Club" seems to be uppermost in the minds of a great many of our so-called modern Masons, and on this subject the Grand Master had the following to say: Our brethren of the Masonic Clubs are making a renewed effort to secure the fund that is necessary to complete the movement which they have inaugerated to establish in the George Washington University of this city a course of study for those who desire to enter the Foreign Service of our Government. Commendation of tUs laudable aim is unnecessary. It appeals at once to every true American and I am hopeful that in the very near future the effort will be successful. I urge upon our brethren that they give it their earnest support. Reference to this enterprise brings to my mind the organization known as the Acacia Fraternity, which is composed of the students, faculties and alumni of our colleges and universities who are members of the Masonic Fraternity. It was my privilege to attend a meeting of the local chapter of this organization during the past year and I was much impressed with the earnestness and high ideals of the brethren assembled there. The association of these young men, under the influence of Masonic teachings and surroundings, presents a wonderful opportunity for good. Many of them have come from
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distant parts of our country to secure an education and if they can be returned to their homes with their minds trained for their life's work, their hearts expanded by t h e beneficent teachings of our Fraternity and its practical application to their daily lives and their characters flnelj' and firmly molded according to high standards, they will be a strong factor in elevating both the Intellectual and spiritual life of the communities in which they reside. Most of them are at an age when they are peculiarly susceptible to good influences. They are an intelligent group of men and I think we, as a Fraternity, are fortunate in being permitted to have the opportunity to guide their eager strength and bountiful energy in the right direction.
We take pleasure in quoting the following from his conclusion: Someone has said that the things we do for ourselves are of little momeui> or value, while what we do for others is lasting In its influence and effect. In my capacity as Grand Master 1. have been permitted to see so much generous and unselfish worii by our brethren that I have acquired a renewed desire to be of service to them and our great cause. What they have done and the splendid way in which they have done it can not fail to be an ever present incentive to mo to emulate their example during the coming years. The Grand Cliaplain, Rev. JOHN C . PALMER, presented a report
which is rather unusual, and from it we quote the following: A kindly Providence made it possible for us to meet out in the open with no other protection than the grateful shade of the beautiful chestnut trees, on eyery Sunday save one, from June 20 to October 9. As befits our Masonic spirit, which knows no church or creed, an honest effort was made to keep the services genuinely non-sectarian. As evidence of this, a study of the list of speakers shows that there were brethren ,on the program from the Baptist, tiie Disciple or Oiiristiaii, the Episcopal, Hebrew, Ijutheran, Methodist and i'resbyterian faiths. There were special days for the Cryptic Rite, the Eastern Star, Eoyal Arch Masons, t h e Scottish Rite, the Shrine and the Knights Templar, when their official heads with a goodly number of members attended. The climax in interest and in numbers came on October 2, when the President of the United States and Mrs. COOT.IDGE were present on invitation of the Association of Worshipful Masters of 1927. Through the courtesy of Worshipful Brother BRG.IR the grounds had been beautifully decorated, and every arrangement made for the safety and comfort of the President. The sermon was amplified, so that it was clearly heard by the throng that crowded all parts of the grounds. For the once t h e President laid aside his reserve, and expressed to those in charge his appreciation of the value and significance of this open religious platform and service in the nation's Capital.
The Grand Secretary just before Grand Lodge closed, called attention to the continued illness of their Grand Secretary Emeritus, Brother ARVINE W . JOHNSTON.
At this Communication a report was received from their committee appointed to review the address of the Grand Master, and from it we are pleased to quote the following: AVe are truly glad of this Masonic outcome of the matters to wldch he may have reference. Long ago, the principle was established when grand lodges came into existence. One of the earliest Grand Lodge jurisdictions expressly provides, by its constitution that: " T h e Grand Lodge, when congregated, is a representation of every individual brother of its jurisdiction. I t is the supreme and sovereign Masonic
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authority and is invested with certain original, essential and unalterable powers and privileges, among which are: " T o investigate, regulate, and decide Anally all Masonic matters which concern the Interest of the Craft, of particular lodges, or of brethren." In these days when we And grand lodges surrounded by other organizations or bodies predicating their membership on Master Masons, ic is right that every Master Mason be reminded of the force and effect of his Grand Lodge and of his obligations as a Master Mason. The Grand Lodge is not called upon to justify the existence of any other organization or body. These other organizations or bodies must justify their own existence, and as a part of that justiflcation must evidence an adherence to the fundamental principles of Masonry as just outlined with respect to the Grand Lodge. Those fundamental principles, or we may say the basis or heart of Masonry, may not be compromised no matter how good the arguments or desires from other sources may be. We recommend the adoption of the Grand Master's report, with the hearty approval and satisfaction of this Grand Lodge in his administration as the head of our Fraternity. We note with regret the absence of our Grand Representative at the several Communications. M.". W.'. Brother GEORGE W . BAIRD prepared the Report on Correspondence which Includes a review of our 1927 Proceedings. In his reference to Kansas we notice he speaks of our Masonic Grand Lodge Building as a Temple. As a matter of information only we venture to say that our Grand Lodge Building is in no wise a Masonic Temple as it is constructed for no other purpose than to provide a fireproof building for the records of the four Masonic Grand Bodies of this jurisdiction, as well as the Grand Lodge Library and Museum. JAMES T . GIBBS, M.-. W.". Grand Master, Washington. J. CLAUDE KEIPER, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, Washington. GEORGE W . BAIRD, P.-. G.-. M.-., Correspondent, Washington.
ECUADOR —1926-1927. Lodges, 7; members, 431; net gain, 46. Guayaquil, July 12, 1927. HERMAN B . PARKER, M.-. W.-. Grand Master. The Grand Master presented a very brief address and from it we quote the following: Ecuadorian masonry during this period has been very active as Is shown by the reports that have been presented by the WW .•. M M .-. of the six Lodges that actually form our Grand Lodge, and their labours have been highly beneficial to the Institution. They have not neglected t o Instruct their members; they have strengthened their columns with new initiates of good standing; they have taken strong action against those who have disobeyed the constitutional laws. They have given proof of their humanitary sentiments by means of various acts of beneScence amongst which might be mentioned the giving of food, clothing and toys to the poor children, thereby mitigating their hunger and bringing a little pleasure into their lives.
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If this can be said about the Lodges that work in the Orient of this city, I regret I cannot say the same in regard to those who work in the interior of the Republic where actually there is not a single Lodge in activity. The inassistance of their members and the irregularity of their proceedings decided me to confiscate the Constitutional Charts of the Lodges No. 8 (Estrella del Chlmborazo) of Riobamba, and No. 9 (Juan Montalvo) of Ambato. Lodge No. 6 (24 de Mayo) .situated in the capital of the Republic, composed of a numerous personnel, for the most part wellknown people, was obliged to close down a n d return its constitutional chart; notwithstanding this, however, a group of enthusiastic masons of this Lodge, not wishing to remain inactive, solicited a dispensation to form another Lodge under the name of " V e r d a d " (Truth), a dispensation that was conceded but which has not made use of for reasons well known to you all.
* * * * * * The finances of the Grand Lodge, as the respective statements of account will show, have not been altogether satisfactory, as we have had to meet numerous demands on our resources, which h?.ve OTi'y been fulfilled with ereat difficulty. Happily these difflculties should tend to disappear soon, as the Decree which has been approved by this High Court, in relation to the Bond Issue,, will serve to consolidate the building debt which weighs so heavily on the Institution. With this end in view I issued the Decree, and I cannot too strongly urge upon all affiliated masons, and those who are initiated to masonry in the future, to subscribe for as many Bonds as their means will allow. Brethren, the foregoing is a summary of my work during the year, and upon retiring from the high office that you have honoured me with for the last four years, a period throughout which I have ever had the conviction that within the limits of my energies and enthusiasm, I have complied with the valuable cooperation of all the Dlgnatories and OJIicials of this Grand Lodge, to whom I take this opportunity of expressing my sincere thanks, and very especially to Bro.'. Gr.'. Sec.'. who by his enthusiasm and hard work has kept ever active our foreign relations, that have been, and I am sure will continue to be, of the pleasantest, as I hope .those of the Lodges in this Orient will be also. From the above it would seem that our brethren in Ecuador have some troubles of their own. We sincerely hope, however, that everything will turn out for the best later. FORREST LAROSS YODER, M.-. W . ' . Grand Master, Guayaquil. LUIS W . GARCIA MORENO, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, Guayaquil.
UNITED GRAND LODGE OF ENGLAND—1927. Lodges, 4,195; members, 330,000; net gain, . At the Quarterly Communication held December 7, 1927, the first order of business was the nomination of a Grand Master for the ensuing year. The privilege of nominating His Royal Highness, T H E D U K E OF CONNAUGHT AND STRATHEARN, was accorded to W.-. Brother Sir WALTER GREAVES-LORD, K . C . , M . P .
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F r o m t h e R e p o r t of t h e B o a r d of General Purposes we q u o t e t h e following: The Board's attention has been called from many quarters to the increasing number of private organisations, with which the names of individual Masons are announced, professing a Masonic object, mainly in the direction of foreign travel, which have been put before the Craft without the authorisation of the M.W. The Grand Master. The Board feels it necessary, in these circumstances, to state that it is considered most undesirable that the word "Masonic" should be u.sed in regard to any private enterprise, the responsibility for which rests upon the promoters alone. It appears to the Board to be desirable, in view of the steadily large attendance at the Quarterly Communications of Grand Lodge, as well as a t the Grand Festival, that it should continue, and make definite, the arrangements which have prevailed during the past two years in regard to such meetings. It is suggested, for the approval of Grand Lodge, that henceforward, and until the first section of the Peace Memorial Building is ready for occupation, the Quarterly Communications of March and December, and those of September held in Loudon, shall be convened at the Kingsway Hall, and each Grand Festival in April and Quarterly Communication in June, at the Central Hall, Westminster. The Board recognises that this course involves a great amount of additional labour and expense; but, in order to prevent the exclusion of very many Brethren duly qualified to attend and in readiness to do so, it is considered necessary to meet in this way the increasing needs of the Craft. Referring t o their Special Commission a p p o i n t e d to visit I n d i a we t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following: If all these Brethren will use the opportunities which I have indicated and will also exercise their talents, their knowledge and their vision, the good wishes of the Craft will become a living active sentiment, strong enough for telepathic transmission across the seas, helpful to our representatives, encouraging to all our Brethren in India and valuable as an exercise of Masonic spirit to ourselves. Brethren, I beg leave to tell you once more that the importance of this Mission cannot easily be exaggerated. We are face to face with a great opportunity, for the highly critical juncture of affairs of India concern us not only as Freemasons but also, and ever more, as Englishmen. You are all sufHciently well acquainted with the present situation, and the events which have led up to it, to be able to surmise that Freemasonry in India cannot remain un^ affected by the great changes in social and political conditions, that are taking place among the diverse peoples of that great sub-continent. That is why a Mission was imperatively needed and urgently demanded, and I think it desirable to repeat that it was at the earnest and insistent request of the Rulers of the Craft in India, Burma, and Ceylon, that the Most Worshipful The Grand Master decided to ask Bro. LORD COBNWALIJS and his colleagues to undertake this very arduous service to the Craft. If Freemasonry is such a force as we all believe it to be, this Mission Is going to do good, not only to the Craft but in a wider sphere. You may ask me how that can be. How can the exchange of fraternal civilities with a microscopic section of the tiny cultured fraction of three hundred millions of human beings in India have any appreciable effect on the general relations between Englishmen and Indians? Brethren, if I had to substantiate my reasons for entertaining the belief that I have indicated, I should require more scope than any speech can afford. I should have to write an essay of formidable length, for I should seek to prove my point with illustrations, not only from the history of humanity, but also from the operation of the laws, of nature. Let one of the latter suffice for iny present purpose. You all' know how some perennial spring of crystal clear water may contain life-givlng,_
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healing properties, owing to the presence of some elemenr that is not perceptible to any of our senses. That element—and radium is an instance of what I mean—cannot be seen or tasted or smelt. So inflnitesimally minute is the proportion in which It Is intermingled with the water, that its presence can only be detected by the chemist who has learnt the most advanced methods of scientiflc discovery, and has the necessary apparatus. And yet the power for good of that mere drop in the ocean is inflnitely great. And so it is in human society, with those things which belong to the mind and spirit of man. One of our great men has said, that " t h e history of success is the history of minorities," and the whole of the history of the human race teems with instances of the relation of small causes to great effects. But in this assembly it is sufficient to say, t h a t Freemasonry is not what we believe it to be, and has none of the influence that its votaries claim for it, unless its very existence is going to make for a better world. Freemasonry Is not doing any good, either in this country or in India, unless it is, so to speak, "radio-active" far outside the confines of the Craft. I t is because I believe that it is, and that it can be more so, that I am here to-day. In India, Freemasonry holds the unique advantage of being the only common ground on which men of culture among Indians and Englishmen can meet on terms of perfect equality, or, as we Masons put it, on the level and on the square. That is only possible because it is one of our Landmarks, that topics of reUgion and politics should not be discussed in Masonic Lodges. The native of India, whether he be a Hindu, a Mohammedan, or a Buddhist, has every action of his private life regulated by his code or religion. His relations with his wife and children, his eating and drinking, his ablutions and his clothing, are all matters of religious observance. His public life is, of course, similarly affected, and, since his religion is widely different from our own, it follows that Ms political notions are as widely divergent from ours as the poles ar« asunder. Hence it comes thai, there is a wide, impassible gulf between Euglishmen and Indians, so Far as religions and politics are concerned, and in these circumstances ordinary social relations, such as we know in Jfiurope, are impossible. In Freemasonry, and Freemasonry alone, there is common ground for meeting on terms of amicable equality. I beg you to think what that means. I beg you to reflect on the immensity of the opportunity which is afforded, by the existence in India of English Masonic Lodges to which Hindus, Mohammedans, Buddhist, and Parsees are freely admitted. The object of the Mission to India is to show at jthis critical juncture that we appreciate that opportunity, that we have confidence In our Indian Brethren, and affection for them, and that we wish to preserve inviolate for our mutual use and advantage the common ground that Freemasonry affords. Do not expect any results that can be defined and recorded in writing, or that can be proclaimed to the world. Do not expect anything that we shall be able to perceive at once for ourselves. But do hope for and expect that which will be felt unseen by those who come after us, and will do good to many who are not of our great Fraternity. Therefore, on behalf of the M.W. The Grand Master. I exhort you to do all that you can to arouse an active interest in the Grand Lodge Mission to India, and thus to stimulate those hearty good wishes, which will surely spring from the zealous and intelligent Instruction that you can, if you will, give to your Lodges.
At the Quarterly Communication held March 7, 1928, the Board of General Purposes had the following to say concerning their Provincial Grand Master: The Board offers its most sincere congratulations to the M.W. The Pro • Grand Master upon the immediately approaching completion of twenty years' service to the Craft in the position of Pro Grand Master. This Is twice as long a period as that of any of his predecessors in the position; and the Board
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feels that full recognition should be given to the great and lasting services M.W. Bro. LORD AMPTHILL has given to Freemasonry, services which it ventures to pray will be long continued. The Board recalls with pride that, during his Pro Grand Mastership, our M.TC. Brother rendered fom- years of active assistance both in England and in the field to the national cause in the Great War. The high spirit of patriotic duty he then showed, coupled with a like display in the conduct of Masonic affairs, has deepened the hold he possesses on the esteem and admiration of his Brethren throughout the jurisdiction of the United Grand Lodge of England.
The Provincial Grand Master, in expressing his appreciation to the brethren for the honors conferred, had the following to say: Brethren, in adopting the Report of the Board of General Purposes, you have associated yourselves with the congratulations tendered to me in the first paragraph, as well as with the exceedingly generous words of praise which the Board and its President have bestowed upon me. 1 thank them and I thank you all with all my heart, and I can only say that I do not feel t h a t I have done enough and I wish I had done more. I have had great opportunities, and I cannot doubt that there are many other Bretliren who would have made better use of them than I have. ("No!") I trust that I have not misused them, but my self-satisfaction does not go further than that, as I know only too well that I have left undone many things that I might have done and ought to have done. I am almost ashamed of my long tenure of of&ce because it has not been in consequence of any merit on my part. I owed my early promotion to a fortuitous concatenation of circumstances—or, in plain words, to sheer luck—and my permanence In the position thus gained has been due to the favour of the M.W. The Grand Master. I may say in. extenuation of the reproach which attaches to those who owe their good fortuna-. more to luck and favour than to merit, that it was only under pressure that:. I accepted the office of Pro Grand Master in the first instance. Indeed, I_ refused it when first offered, because I neither sought nor desired promotion. I shall be content to remain in office so long as I am required by the M.W. The,, Grand Master whom I am proud and glad to serve, and so long as my services?: are acceptable to Grand Lodge and the Craft, but 1 earnestly hope that "some-, fey" may give me " t h e giftie" to see myself as others see me before I out-. stay my welcome. Let me assure you that I do appreciate the great good! fortune of being what I am in so great and goodly an association as ours;: and that in my daily supplications to Almighty Goo I pray that 1 may become, less unworthy of an opportunity so unique of being extensively serviceable to my fellow-creatures. (Applause.) B i r m i n g h a m , S e p t e m b e r 5, 1928. M.-. W.-. T H E H O N , L O R D AMPTHILL, Pro Grand Master. i This was t h e second C o m m u n i c a t i o n of t h e G r a n d L o d g e of E n g l a n d ever held outside of t h e city of L o n d o n , and from t h e r e p o r t • of t h e B o a r d of General P u r p o s e s we q u o t e t h e following: For the second time in the history of BngUsh organised Freemasonry, the coming Quarterly Communication of Grand Lodge is to be held, by direction of the M.W. The Grand Master, outside London; and the Board ventures to congratulate the Province of Warwickshire, which so recently celebrated the bi-centenary of the Provincial Grand Mastership, on the distinction thus achieved. I t desires to express sincere appreciation of the pains taken by the Province, headed by the Provincial Grand Master, R.W. Bro. Col. WILLIAM P. WYLEY, V.D., I>.Z..,to secure the success of the gathering, and its sincere thanks to the Corporation of Birmingham, which, through ihe Lord Mayor
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of the City, extended an invitation to Grand Lodge to assemble In the Town Hall. To all those concerned in the organisation of the gathering, whether at Freemasons' Hall or locally, the Board tenders cordial thanks. Under the head of "Spurious Masonic 'Revelations'" we take pleasure in quoting the following: Brethren are earnestly besought not to purchase, or in any way assist the sale and circulation of, catchpenny pamphlets professing to reveal the secrets of Freemasonry, whlcii, for the purpose of personal gain, have of late been freely hawked a t London street corners. Several copies of the latest specimen of these works have reached the Grand Secretary; and this, like all its predecessors for the past 200 years, is a palpable imposture, written by one unpossessed of inside knowledge of the Craft. As, however, they are Issued with an intent to deceive, it is incumbent on every Brother to do his utmost to . prevent profit accruing t o anyone associated with the publication, by refraining from purchasing a copy or passing it from hand to hand, even though only for the purpose of denunciation or derision. This is a matter which the Board feels, after the present warning, and in view of the fact that similar publications are threatened, is best left at this point in the hands of the Brethren .as a whole. Impostors also received attention at the hands of the Board, and attention was called t o their report adopted in 1921, which reads as follows: Secretaries and Almoners of Lodges are specially urged to exercise great •.caution in giving casual relief to persons who travel over the country, stating that they are poor and distressed Freemasons. Many of these are either impostors or undeservine:. and no relief should be afforded without full proof that the applicant is worthy of aid. A frequent device is to state that the :applicant is a member of a Lodge under a sister -iurisdiction; and the Board has been suppUed with an official Police warning against one pariicularly perisistent vagrant . . . . Men of this type, while of shabby^appearance, are apt ^o be extremely plausible, and to show such a degree of knowledge as to deceive jLodge Secretaries or Almoners, I t is recommended that, when specific statemenis of the kind indicated are made, their truth be tested, ajid all applications, unsupported by proof, be refused.
FLORIDA—1928, Lodges, 254; members, 32,404; net gain, 2,000. Jacksonville, April 17, 1928. BENJAMIN E. DYSON, M . ' . W.-. Grand Master. The Committee on Credentials reported t h a t Kansas had no representative at this Communication. We are therefore obliged to again repeat that this announcement is an annual occurrence and we would suggest t h a t the Grand Master nominate some faithful brother who will look after our interests. The Grand Master, in presenting his annual address, states that on account of his physical condition he was unable to carry out his
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good intentions when elected a n d installed q u o t e t h e following:
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Master,
a n d we
M y physical condition has to a large extent been responsible for this failure, my mental capacity has been a contributing factor, and other circumstances over which I had no control have caused the conduct of my offlcial position as Grand Master to be anything else but satisfactory. I sincerely trust that this Grand Lodge will cast the broad mantle of Masonic charity over my foibles and allow them to be buried with t h e past.
He recommended that the number of Masonic districts be decreased at least fifty per cent. This was based on a statement that good roads made it unnecessary to have so many districts. The Grand Lodge, however, took an opposite view and the recommendation therefore fell by the wayside. He recommended that they adopt the trial commission plan for conducting all Masonic trials. The committee, however, to whom this subject was referred took an opposite view and therefore for the time being no change in this respect will be made in their laws. Referring to the size of their lodges he had the following to say: I would also recommend the consolidation of small Lodges having less than fifty members, located in remote neighborhoods with no prospects for increases.. My observation has been that these small Lodges are not capable of rendering assistance to themselves or any other worthy, distressed cases.
To the notion of the writer the above recommendation is one of the things which lessens the interest and attendance at our Stated Communications. We really need more small lodges and a less number of the large ones. Later on in the Proceedings we note a resolution was adopted authorizing the incoming Grand Master to study and investigate the system of trials by a committee. We find in these Proceedings another splendid report from the chairman of the Committee on Correspondence, Brother E L I P. HuBBELL, and we are grateful to him for a very fraternal review of our 1927 Proceedings. L E R O Y BRANDON, M . \ W.-. Grand Master, Jacksonville.
WiLBER P. WEBSTER, R.". W . ' . Grand Secretary, Jacksonville. E L I P . HUBBELL, Correspondent, Bradenton.
Next Annual, Jacksonville, April 16, 1929.
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COBHESPONDENCE—GEORGIA.
February,
GEORGIA —1927. Lodges, 648; members, 66,843; net loss, 2,047. Macon, October 25, 1927. A. G. MILLER, M.-. W.-. Grand Master. Brother P . T. MCCUTCHBN, our Grand Representative, was present. Our statistical tables are based absolutely on the figures shown by the Grand Secretary of Georgia, although we are satisfied that they do not reflect the actual conditions. In the 1926 Proceedings he reported the membership to be 68,890, while in this year's Proceedings he shows it for 1926 to be 66,905, or a discrepancy of 1,985. In opening this copy of the Proceedings we find a likene.ss of their Deputy Grand Master, who at this Communication was advanced to the Grand East, Brother RAYMUND DANIEL, followed by a picture of • their Grand Lodge Building, which according to the Proceedings was dedicated on October 25, 1927. From the picture we take it this building is one reflecting great credit upon the Craft of Georgia, and as we are housed in a similar building we know just what this structure means to the brethren of this jurisdiction. From the address on this occasion, delivered by Brother RAYMUND DANIEL, we take pleasure in quoting the following: Man has desired always a. hnmA. Back in the tribal days, when clans dwelt in tents upon the plains, was the dream of a place of permanent abode. From this vision came villages, towns and cities. With his own home supplied, man turned, in his wish, for a house for his GOD. Ever a creature of worship and association, man sought a sanctuary, where with his neighbor and his friends, he might meet and mingle in peace and unity. i B| In the earliest time of antiquity was the Man's House, the heathen's temple where barbaric rites were practiced for unknown gods. Afterwards were the resplendent structures of pagan Egypt, Babylon, Eome and Greece. With advancing civiUzation evolved more marvelous edifices, and today every monument and organization have their shrines, where men may gather to promulgate their ideals or worship the GOD they know. Two thousand and thirty-eight years ago this month—in October, 1011, before the present moder of reckoning time—SOLOMON, King of Israel, dedicated the first temple built by the Hebrews to JEHOVAH. I t was the fulfillment of the dream of ARRAHAM, before his tent upon the moonlit hills of Chaldea; of MOSES, who guided his path by the cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night above the tabernacle that journeyed toward the Promised Land; of DAVID, who sang the songs of his desire and gathered his materials for a building, which GOD willed should be erected, not by DAVID, but by SOLOMON, his son. Around tills temple cluster all the lore and legend of Freemasonry. At the time of the dedication of the house that SOLOMON raised to GOD there was peace throughout al;I the land, with its attendant prosperity, so that " J u d a h and Israel dwelt safely, every man under bis vine and under bis fig tree." SOLOMON in his wisdom, perceived that nothing would so unite the twelve tribes as to engage in some great work. Where there is labor there are peace and unity. Within the temple was enshrined the law given by JEHOVAH to MOSES upon Mount Sinai, and preserved in the golden casket known as the Ark of the Covenant, built of acacia. When it was removed
1928-29.
CoBBESPONDENCE—GEORGIA.
223
from the tabernacle and placed in the Holy of Holies of the temple, GOD'S blessing was made manifest by a supernatural radiance so dazzling that the ministering priests could not endure its brightness. Today we have carried but the solemn rite, the sacred ceremony of the dedication of this matcliless temple of Georgia Masonry—this new house of love and peace. To us it is a realized dream of brick and mortar. Henceforth it is to be our home—our consecrated edifice of a united family of brothers. But all things material decay and die. The woQders of Babylonia's buildings are wastes where jackals wander. The glory Rome gathered into the beauty of her structures is dust or fragments of distorted structures. The grace that belonged to temples of Greece is marked mostly now by modern tile and stone. Of KING SOLOMON'S Temple, only memory remains. Some future day this edifice we consecrate shall crumble. Then, my beloved Brethren, must we not look for some greater reason than mere pride for our present exercises? In the story of the new Jerusalem, it is told that there is no temple there for the tabernacle of GOD is with men, and He will dwell wath them and they shall be His people, and GOD Himself shall be with them and be their GOD. Do we not find here the symbol of that tabernacle of God that shall be with men? Do we not see the emblems of that architecture, foundation and super-structure of the temple of righteousness which man seeks to construct, dedicate and consecrate to GOD and the best within himself? Do we not catch the vision of this material temple standing as a symbol of recognition and acknowledgment of JEHOVAH, of allegiance to right, of law and order and of service to GOD, to country, to mankind and to self, standing as a representation of the ideals of Freemasonry, the ideals of love and peace and hope and faith. Of all that life can give, only love remains. If there be not love, then this dedicated temple shall be but the tomb of dead endeavor.*, but the grave of crushed dreams.
Immediately following the ceremony of dedication the Grand Lodge was Opened in Ample Form and several reports received and referred to the proper committees. In the evening of the same day the Grand Lodge settled down to actual business. The Grand Master, in presenting his annual message to the Grand Lodge, had the following to say: It is said that as MILTON came to the end of his ma.sterpiece, "Paradise Ivost," he paused. His daughter, who was penning that immortal poem for him, looked up as she waited for him to continue. Upon the face of England's greatest singer she saw an expression of deepest' sorrow; in his sightless eyes were gathering tears and from his lips came the words vibrating with the motion, " I t is finished." The ending of days of happiness spent in a work he loved as he did his very life and the coming to him of a consciousness that now mankind must judge of the worthiness of his creation to live, stirred his very soul. Some such emotion stirs the heart of your Grand Master today as he faces the termination of his administration. It seems but yesterday that I entered upon the duties of this exalted office, filled with fondest hopes of doing something for Georgia Masonry which would justify my having been selected from among my Brethren to be their Grand Master. 'With the swiftness of Ught I find the year has gone and but little accomplished. Forgive me for my failures and remember me, in the years to come, as one who strove with all his soul to promote the best interests of the Craft. To serve you has been one of the joys of my life, and the memory of my association with you during the past year shall linger with me during the remaining years left to me.
224
COBBESPONDENCE—GEORGIA.
February,
Under "Masonic H o m e " we quote the following from his address : One of the greatest pleasures experienced by your Grand Master during his term of office has been in connection with his service on the Board of Trustees of the Home, and it is a true source of sorrow that I realize that this tour of duty has ended for me. It would be a joy for me during the remainder of life to have the consciousness of having done something for the perpetual comfort of these little people. Naturally fond of children, I have looked forward from month to month to the time when I should return to mingle with them.
Referring to the Grand Lodge Building we quote the second paragraph on this subject: Since this building has been completed I have had several applications for various bodies to use its auditorium. With a single exception of granting the roiiuesu of the coiigregatJuu of Ivluiberry Street Methodist Church to use the Auditorium for divine services while their church is being reconstructed, I have steadily declined all requests. I am of the opinion that this building should be reserved for the exclusive use of the Masonic and kindred bodies.
He very properly refers to the Report on Correspondence in the following words: The report on Foreign Correspondence has been carefully prepared by our Foreign Correspondent, RAYMOND DANIEL, and will fully repay one for the time to read it. I t gives a comprehensive review of all the Masonic happenings of the year written in a most attractive manner. May I urge you to read it. Ill a c c e p t i n g the i m p o r t a n t office of G r a n d M a s t e r M . \ W.". R A Y M U N D D A N I E L had t h e following t o s a y a m o n g other t h i n g s : Back of us is a fadeless past. Before us is a limitless future. On the enduring foundation that has been laid for us, we must raise the superstructure of the coming years. Never before did Freemasonry possess such an opportunity—such a mission to perform—not alone in the conferring of degrees, but in leading men out of darkness—in binding ourselves into one great band of loving, helpful brethren to give relief to mind and heart and body—in bringing love and peace of GOD and man. The future lies in our hands. Much as your Grand Master desires to serve, and the year he is to be Grand Master, he will be Grand Master— much as he loves you—and he cares for you to the fullness of his love, he will need and seek your loving help and loving understanding.
From the report of the Committee on Memorials we are pleased to quote the following words: We read, and hear this report read, and it recites to this Grand Body that 832 men have died, but to 832 homes there have come shadows, grief and sorrow. The great majority of these, our brethren have left lonely, desolate widows and in many instances helpless children, and no matter whether they have gone from mansion or mountain cabin, from plenty or bare subsistence, these widows and children must realize that the busy brain that conceived and the strong arm that labored have grown silent and still and loneUness hovers like a paU over them. Silently and with tears they have followed as our great brotherhood have, with white aprons and white gloves, paid this last sad tribute of respect to them, have turned sorrowfully away and without the open Bible and the Mason's GOD would have gone hopelessly back home.
1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—IDAHO.
225
But there comes through the gloom and darkness of this hour the divine assurance that those who believe, though dead, shall live again, and the sprig of acacia is emblematical of our hope of the resurrection that blooms eternal in the faithful breast, and we shall meet again where death shall come no more. The usual Report on Fraternal Reviews was prepared by Brother RAYMUND DANIEL and includes a liberal reference to our 1927 Proceedings. Referring to the writer of this report he had the following to say: CORRESPONDENCE—The Hercules of the Kansas Craft—Grand Secretary and Grand Correspondent ALBERT K . WILSON, offers a report brim full of interest from the opening line of its introduction to the close of the Statistical Tables. How Brother WILSON can And time for his able performances in his dual capacities is beyond our knowledge. Sturdy, honest-to-goodness, old time reliable Freemasonry shines throughout his work. Courteous attention is given our 1925 Proceedings. He terms our late Past Grand Master JAMES W . TAYLOR as " a remarkable man with a wonderful Alasonic record." Brother WILSON also states that destruction of several Georgia Lodges without insurance, might consistently raise the • question "whether Grand Lodge should not compel all Lodges to carry sufficient insurance to protect them in case of loss by Are or water.'' RAYMUND DANIEL, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, Atlanta. FRANK F . BAKER, R . ' . W . ' . Grand Secretary, Macon. RAYMUND DANIEL, Correspondent, Atlanta. Next Annual, Macon, October, 1928.
IDAHO —1927. Lodges, 88; members, 10,118; net gain, 110. Coeur d'Alene, September 13, 1927. HENRY P . GLINDEMAN, M . \ W.'. Grand Master. We are compelled to report that our Grand Representative was not present at this Communication. During the preliminaries prior to the formal opening of Grand Lodge we note the Grand Master received an additional honor, which is best explained in the following words taken from the journal: The Grand Master, without suspecting the purpose, was advised to call a recess for a few moments, when ohe door opened and Past Grand Master JETER escorted little OLIVE JEAN GLINDEMAN to the center of the room bearing a huge basket of flowers, which were graciously presented to her father. I t was a beautiful and a touching scene, and as the little lady, dressed in white, retired from the room, many an eye was dampened.
226
CORRESPONDENCE—IDAHO.
February,
The Grand Master had the following to say, among other things, in presenting his address: In submitting to you this, my report as Grand Master of Masons in Idaho for the year now closing, I do so with the hope, I trust, that any shortcomings of mine or mistakes made, will be covered by that broad cloak of Charity and Brotherly Love, for I wish ro assure you all they have been of the head and not of the heart. I express to the brethren of this jurisdiction my sincere thanks for the honor bestowed upon me one year ago in electing me Grand Master. Also, I wish to express my sincere appreciation and thanks for t h e kindly counsel and helpful assistance given me by my brethren, and to the District Deputies I am indeed grateful for their splendid co-operation and support given me during t h e year. The many courtesies accorded this oiflce during the year will be an ever pleasant recollection of my service as your Grand Master during that time. He was not unmindful of the assistance rendered him by their District Deputy Grand Masters, and in referring to this subject he had the following to say: To each of these brethren I extend my sincere thanks and appreciation for their whole-hearted support and cooperation accorded me during the year. Their labors have not been amiss. In planning the work among the JJistrict Deputies for the year I have asked them to give special emphasis to the encouragement and holding of " g e t together" meetings between lodges, to secure more nearly perfect ritualistic work, attention to the proper keeping of the records of the lodge—the minutes, financial accounts, etc., delinquent dues and general Masonic educational work. All of these have received careful consideration and attention at their hands. Detailed reports have boon filed, showing the condition of lodges and general status of the Craft ill iheii- respective districts. The ghost of physical qualifications loomed up as usual and among the questions submitted we note one asking whether a man who had lost one arm was eligible to receive the degrees. He was called upon t o appoint a substitute for Brother JOHN W . SHORE, Chairman of the Committee on Correspondence, and the responsibilities of this important office were transferred to Brother PERCY JONES.
The Grand Secretary submitted a very complete and detailed report of his official duties and responsibilities, and in referring to the qualifications of Secretaries he had the following to say: I t is a serious mistake to elect a Secretary from among the new members. The Secretary, like the Master, should be a Mason of experience A few ijodges have elected Secretaries who have been Masons but a few months, and almost invariably they have had to regret it later. A very few Lodges are using the office of Secretary as the beginning step in a line of promotion that is expected to lead to t h e Master's chair. This also is a mistaken idea. There may be something said in its favor, but the preponderance of argument is against it. The office is too important to be made simply a period of preparation for higher stations. To attempt to train a new Secretary every year is too costly an e.^perience. Better start the line of promotion from some other station.
1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—IDAHO.
227
A splendid o r a t i o n w a s delivered b y B r o t h e r J O H N T . W O O D , t h e subject being " T h e G r o w t h of a M a s o n " , a n d we t a k e p l e a s u r e i n quoting t h e following: Masonry must be differentiated from all other lodges or organizations except perhaps the Christian church. They inculcate some particular lesson or virtue, but Masonry is a complete philosophy of Ufe. Not by any means do all Masons perceive or apprehend it as such, much less live it, but nevertheless we find in it a complete synthesis of a man's relationship to his fellow man, his family, state, and the universe with its Supreme Grand Archiiect. Through a proper comprehension of these relationships as taught by Masonry, man is brought to the center of his universe, feeling himself in active relationship to all other beings therein, and is constrained to circumscribe his desires and Iseep his passions within due bounds towards all mankind on the one hand, and to recognize his limitations and his accountabihty to his Maker on the other. Before I became acquainted with the inner meaning of Masonry I always felt that it was somewhat presumptuous to classify men as initiated or profane, and to speak of an intelligent applicant for the mysteries of Masonry as one who had been long wandering in darkness, etc., but ^\ith an increasing knowledge of the peculiar function of Masonry in the world, with a proper understanding of the wonderful results it has already brought about in the affairs of men, and a partial conception of what it shall accomplish in the future, I do not now have that feeling. Masonry is the one organization which does just this: I t cares nothing for the name by which you invoke youj Deity, or the temple in which you worship, though the necessity of a belief in some Supreme Being is one of our landmarks. I t cares nothing for the coloration of your skin, or the particular language you speak, or from what sacred tradition you may draw your particular inspiration. I t simply asks that you be a free man and thus master your destiny. The poor and the rich must meet at our altar on a common footing, and an actual demonstration of worth and service are the only means through which advancement may be won. Such an Institution is ours, my brethren. Not built in a day, a year or a century, but a tremendous synthesis of ethics, religion and philosophy, which has occupied the time and attention of some of the best men in all ages; men who have built wisely and well; who have erected a temple for us, without ihe sound of axe or hammer, that stands today sublime, peerless and magnificent, an eternal monument to their wisdom. This white temple has not only given to its initiates wise counsels which have altered their individual destinies, but a study of history will disclose the fact that within its walls were cradled democracy and the rights of man. Not only so, but on Its walls are still draped the blood stained flags of a thousand battles for human liberty against the forces of darkness and tyranny, whose presence there is a permanent challenge to those same forces that t h e same •organization which has championed these ideals in the past is eternally ready to do so again in the future should occasion arise.
In the Report on Correspondence Kansas was found missing. We are at a loss to understand this omission as three copies of our Pro•ceedings were mailed the Grand Secretary in March, 1927. RICHARD F . CURTIS, M.-. W . ' . Grand Master, Sandpoint. CURTIS P. P I K E , R.-. W . ' . Grand Secretary, Boise. PERCY JONES, Correspondent, Blackfoot.
Next Annual, Boise, September 11, 1928.
228
CORRESPONDENCE—INDIANA.
February
INDIANA —1928. Lodges, 560; members, 129,071; net gain, 1,156. Indianapolis, May 22, 1928. OBIE J. SMITH, M . - . W.-. Grand Master. Previous to the opening of the Grand Lodge the brethren were entertained in the Grand Lodge auditorium by a girls' chorus of fifty from the Indiana Masonic Home. On the following day ah excursion was made to their Masonic Home, and we note that 578 of the brethren took advantage of this opportunity of seeing the splendid monument of Masonic charity in t h a t jurisdiction. Brother RUDOLF H . HORST, our Grand Representative, was present. The Grand Master in presenting his address first expresses surprise that twelve months have passed since he was honored with the high office of Grand Master, and freely admits that it is the greatest honor the citizenship of Indiana can confer upon any individual. We take the following from his preface: I have in my visitations been trying lo forcibly sell to the Brethren of our Lodges their own Masonry—calling their attention to what has been created for them in the past and urging them to give a part of themselves for the still better building of our Fraternity. D u r i n e t h e y e a r he visited fifty nf t h e i r lodges a n d a t t e n d e d a n u m b e r of o t h e r Masonic gatherings. Referring t o t h i s he h a d t h e following t o s a y : I t has been m y pleasure to visit over fifty Lodges and attend a number of Masonic gatherings, and it has been an inspiration to me to look down into the faces of those assembled and sense the feeling of friendship and affection they have for each other. A fine spirit of harmony prevails. The offlcers of the different Lodges are very zealous for the bettering of conditions of their respective bodies, and with the vision that prevails today, Masonry in Indiana can not help but have a very bright future. Referring t o securing t h e funds of t h e i r lodges he h a d t h e following t o say: This year, a n d in previous years, money has been lost in Lodges where there has been a feeling that the ofBces of Secretary and Treasurer should not be bonded on account of the personnel of those offlcers. A bond could be obtained by the Grand Lodge covering the Secretary and Treasurer of each Body at a much more advantageous rate than that for which the Individual Lodge could purchase it. At the ^ame time, handling this from a central point and on a business basis would do away with the personal element, which really, should not enter into the business management of the Fraternity. Concluding this subject he submitted a complete set of resolutions looking toward the bonding of their lodge officers and securing the funds, and we are pleased to note t h a t the Grand Lodge looks favorably upon this proposition.
1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—INDIANA.
229
He also recommended t h a t no lodge shall be permitted to erect a Masonic Temple until its plans for building and financing have first been submitted to and approved by an advisory board. His recommendation was approved by the Grand Lodge. Referring to the subject of " C h a r i t y " he had the following to say: Our charity is supposed to be as broad as from East to West, and yet when a dependent of a Master Mason is found in distress in some town or city in the State, the Lodges of that location are not really able to continue a program of financial assistance. I am asking you Brethren, " How many of your Lodges, from your treasury, could maintain an expense of one hundred dollars a month for a number of months, and for one or more dependents? Following this, he called attention to several cases, all of which required more money than it was possible for their local lodge to furnish. The Grand Master, however, took the position that such cases should be relieved and with that in view he submitted the following resolutions, which were approved by the Grand Lodge: No. 3.—Be It Resolved, By the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of Indiana, that a sum equivalent to ten cents per capita, based on the membership of this Grand Jurisdiction, be set aside each year for the purpose of taking care of cases of extraordinary relief, and Be It Further Resolved, That such sum be placed under the jurisdiction of the Indiana Masonic Home Board of Directors for administration and disbursement when and as in its judgment seems conformable to Masonic principles. No. 4.—Be It Resolved, That in any town or city in the State of Indiana, where there exists two or more symbolic Lodges, that all such Lodges in such localities shall associate themselves and equitably join in the administration, and expense incident thereto, of relief to sojourners or their dependents, who may be in the jurisdiction of such Lodges. No. 5.—Be It Resolved, That each and every Subordinate Lodge be required to set aside a t least twenty-flve (25) cents of the annual dues paid by each of its members. The fund thus created shall be expended only for Masonic Relief. Should t h e fund become e-xhausted, the Lodge shall cause an assessment to be levied against each member thereof in any amount necessary, to replenish it. Failure to pay such an assessment shall be equivalent t o nonpayment of dues and shall be dealt with in the same manner and carry the same penalty. Under the head of "Capitalization of Masonry to Aid Private Business", he submitted the following: This year, I have received several letters from Secretaries throughout Indiana, pertaining to the permissibility of the use of the Local Lodge roster in connection with a privately owned and operated business or enterprise. No business has any right to so conduct itself as to depend upon the Masonic Fraternity for its patronage and insist that patronage be forthcoming from the Fraternity. The Grand Lodge is not for the purpose of, or has it the time or inclination to operate cemeteries, publish papers, publish books, operate building and loan associations, operate insurance agencies; run community stores, further political interests, or to do anything except to endeavor to build up its individual members toward a higher standard of manhood:
230
CORRESPONDENCE—IOWA.
February,
I wish to charge the Masters here assembled to in no way permit the roster of your membership to be furnished to any one for commercial purposes, or in any way imply tliat your Lodge or the Grand Lpdge is sponsoring any business.
His suggestions were approved by the Grand Lodge. We note among the amendments to their general regulations submitted at this Communication one looking toward the adoption of a system for transferring membership before taking out the usual dimit. The proposed regulation is practically the same as that first adopted by our Grand Lodge, and which we later found to be only a means of confusing the records and causing an endless amount of trouble for the Grand Secretary; we therefore amended this law and now all proposed transfers under this system must be transmitted through the Grand Secretary. The usual Report on Correspondence was submitted by M.'. W.-. ELMEB F . GAY, but we regret to note the absence of any review of our
own Proceedings. CHARLES C . LAFOLLETTE, M.-. W . - . Grand Master, Thorntown. WILLIAM H . SWINTZ, R . \ W.V Grand Secretary, Indianapolis. ELMEE F . GAY, P.-. G.'. M.-., Correspondent, Indianapolis.
Next Annual, Indianapolis, May 28, 1929.
Lodges, 557; members, 86,486; net loss, 55. Cedar Rapids, June 12, 1928.
DAVID R . T R I P P , M.-. W.-. Grand
Master. Preliminary to the opening of the Grand Lodge an address of welcome was extended by Brother JOHN M . GRIMM on behalf of the Masons
and citizens of Cedar Rapids, and we quote the.following from his remarks: "We recognize that you are here, n o t from any selfish purpose. This is not a mare'commercial convention, and we do not recognize it as such. While we are glad to bave those, yet we recognize that you have come from your homes, your banl£s, your factories, your counting houses, yourTarms, and other places of business for purely altruistic purposes, t n doing something for the general welfare of humanity by encouraging and fostering Masonry. ROBERT LUCAS, the first governor of the territory, chanced to be a Mason; and that is not all, there came with him, as Ids private secretary, as he occupied the then exalted position of the Governorsliip of t h e State of Iowa, a young man who lliicwise was a Mason; a young man who was idealistic and enthusiastic, a man who exercised a tremendous influence upon the early history of the State of Iowa, and who lilcewise exercised a tremendous influence upon the history of Masonry in Iowa; a man who did a great deal for Masonry not only in Iowa, but in the entire domain of Masonry. X refer to that grand old Masonic patriot, THEODORE S. PAEVIN.
1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE-—IOWA.
231
Here in Cedar Rapids it was that PARVIN did much of the splendid work of his lifetime lu Masonry. We of Linn County and Cedar Rapids are proud of the fact that Masonry began its career here at a very, very early day. The record discloses that in 1844 the first Lodge of Masons was organized in Marion, in this County, and in 1851 the first Lodge was organized in Cedar Rapids. It is a significant fact, my friends, that the first Master of the Lodge in Cedar Rapids, away back yonder in 1851 and 'S2, was none other than that splendid citizen, that great city and empire builder. Judge GEORGE G . GREENE, universally loved, respected and revered by everyone who knew Wm, and his memory is honored and respected to this day by those who live here in this beautiful city of 60,000 people. As a matter of encouragement in handling the gavel the lodges of Cedar Rapids presented a beautiful floral piece, which to the notion of the writer is always an incentive to "nobler deeds, higher thoughts, and purer actions". The minutes state that the Grand Lodge was opened in Annual Communication by the Grand Master. We presume this really meant that the Grand Lodge was opened in Ample Form. We quote the following from the preface to the Grand Master's address: Brethren of the Grand Lodge of Iowa, another milestone is reached. How rapidly we are passing them! As the years go by each one of them seems shorter than the one preceding, a notice that we must do our work now or possibly it will never be done. A day spent in idleness can never be recalled; a dollar unwisely spent today, or lost, can never be saved. Let each of us begin today to do our work and do it well and spend our money, or that in our charge, judiciously and economically as this is the road to success. He refers in a touching but brief way to the death of their Past Grand Master, SUMNBR MILLER, who for a number of years has been living in Wyoming. The Grand Master is to be complimented in having visited one hundred ten lodges during the year. We observe, however, t h a t he includes in the reference to his visits one to a chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star. We rise to ask what this has to do with a formal address of a Grand Master to a Grand Lodge of Masons. We are inclined to believe that Grand Master T R I P P has a weakness for the fairer sex. Under "Grand Lodge Charity F u n d " we take pleasure in quoting the following: I t has also been the opinion of this Grand Lodge that a system of allowances from the Grand Chanty Fund is more beneficial and economical and satisfactory to the needy one than for the Grand Lodge to maintain a Home. Other Grand Jurisdictions are adopting the allowance system. For example, the Grand Lodge of New York, which has maintained a Home for seventyfive years, has recently adopted the allowance system to take care of the many cases which the Home could not relieve. Those in charge of the work speak in words of highest praise of the efilciency, satisfaction and economy of the allowance system. Our Grand Lodge has recently prepared a Sanitarium which is intended for those bod cases who can not be otherwise taken care of. The Grand
232
CORRESPONDENCE—lo
WA.
February.
Charity Fund, or Allowance system, combined with the Sanitarium for nurse cases, and assisted by the cooperation of the lodges, enables this Grand Lodge to give assistance equal to that of any Grand Lodge, and at an expense which can and should be kept within the present provisions of our law. Under "Mistaken Ideas of Masonic Relief" he submitted the following: There seems to be the thought among some of our brethren that Masonry is for monetary purposes only; t h a t if a brother has paid dues for some years and he or his dependents become needy, all that is necessary is to inform the lodge and it will pay the bills, no matter what the cause may have been. We have all paid dues, to be sure, not for the purpose of having them returned, but for the privilege of being in good standing. Those who differ should have made application to some insurance company which makes such contracts. The lodge or Masonry has promised nothing; all we get from it is a gift pure and simple. Fortunately such a complaint comes from only a few. If a member needs help and a place to stay and has no means and no such place, then we stand ready to assist; b u t if he has property or life insurance, then these compiainers seem to think our Charity Committee must not have any part of his estate turned in, but must let him leave what he has for his heirs and the lodge pay the bills. This- grabbing spirit is not Masonry and I am decidedly opposed to their attempts to impose on the Craft. His address deals very extensively with the handling of funds and we take it from his remarks on this subject that he is what we term a close financier. Be t h a t as it may his reference to this subject is tainted throughout with good, hard, common sense, and we trust will bear fruit in the fraternity in that jurisdiction as at this day and age advice of this kind does not go amiss. We note from the handling of these portions of his address, however, the Grand Lodge simply commended the Grand Master for his reference to these subjects, but recommended and passed no rules or regulations taking advantage of his wise judgment. Dealing with this topic he had the following to say under " U n necessary Expenditures by Lodges": I am quite sure that constituent lodges, if carefully managed, can save many dollars more than they are now doing. I t is an indisputable fact that no individual can save by spending more than his income. So it is with any organization. I know lodges t h a t enterrain their members by feeding them. This is one way and possibly the easy way. Why not practice a little economy and keep down expenses? I t surely is not necessary to have a banquet when a light lunch would answer the purpose. Try this, brethren. But is there not a better way? Try being prompt, begin on time, go over your work carefully before going to lodge, do your part with expression so it will make a good impression on your candidate as well as upon those along the side lines. This kind of interest will last; cost far less, and do much more good. Try it and you will get interested yourselves, and when you are really interested your hearers will be also. H e concluded his a d d r e s s w i t h t h e following w o r d s : I hope that my year as your oiflcial head has fitted and prepared me for a greater and more eiBcient service to our Order, and I earnestly pray that through my remaining years, be they few or many, I may have strength and wisdom to do more and better work than I have heretofore done. I owe it and I want to pay it so far as I a m able.
•
1928-29.
COBRESPONDENCE—IOWA.
233
Grand Secretary CHARLES C . HUNT presents one of his usually interesting detailed reports and goes even to the extent of listing the Grand Jurisdictions and the amount each contributed to the sufferers in the flooded district in the south. We are a little inclined to take issue with this portion of the Grand Secretary's report as in Masonry we believe it is much better to conform to the Holy Writ and not allow the left hand to know what the right hand doeth. This is not offered because we are ashamed of our contribution, as the amount indicated in this list, with what was contributed from other Masonic sources in our state, was very creditable to this jurisdiction. Their Charity Fund is to be augmented b y receiving one-fifth of the net proceeds of a trust fund of $200,000.00 bequeathed by Brother MAX D . PETERSON.
From the report of the Committee on Grand Master's address we quote the following: We all felt that when our Grand Master took the gavel a year ago to preside over the Grand East we would have a business administration. Also that he would give all his strength and ability to the Interests and advancement of Masonry iu Iowa. The direct and able report he has rendered of his actions as Grand Master more than vindicate our faith in him and exemplifies his splendid work and character. His report is filled with suggestions and sage advice emanating from many years of Masonic work and crowned with this year of administrative experiences and should be carefully considered, weighed and accepted by the Craft and this Grand Lodge. As the question of cataloging and indexing our own library up to date must receive our early attention, the writer takes the liberty of quoting the following from the report of the Librarian: To one unfamiliar with library practice, the assignment to make a report upon the activities of the most unique example in t h e world will prove both a delight and a surprise—a delight to find a most worthwhile subject for his pen and a surprise to learn what an enormous amount of work is being done in a department which the average Mason is inclined to accept as an unimportant adjunct of the work of this Grand Lodge. To the writer, who has been privileged to visit the Library many times, and because personally acquainted with the staff, it has become not only something of absorbing interest, but has opened to him possibilities in Masonic education hitherto undreamed of. In this monument to the wisdom of our Masonic forefathers we possess an asset, the value of which cannot be computed in dollars and cents and which is without a peer In the world today. What must be the feeling of a Masonic student of another state or country when he finds that the source of much of the material he would use in his work can only be obtained through the courtesy of the Masons of Iowa? In the words of the cartoonist BRIGGS, for the Masons of Iowa " I t is a grand and glorious feeling," that we can be of service to our fellow Masons wherever they may be. From the Report of the Committee on Fraternal Dead we take the following: Long ages ago JOB asked and propounded the question, " I f a man die. shall he live again?" Through the revolving centuries the quest of the an-, cient Arabian Patriarch has been the universal and persistent desire of thehuman soul. Man no sooner makes the great discovery that he lives to die,
234
CORRESPONDENCE—IRELAND.
February,
than the GOD Implanted seed of hope springs to life and fills the heart with a consuming passion for immortality. Immediately he begins to cast about in the realm of thought in search of a sure foundation for his hope—a hope in which he dares to indulge despite the never ending procession which moves across the plains of life to disappear within the gates of death. Many and varied are the fountains of assurance at which the soul quenches its thirst, finds solution for its most perplexing problems, and comes into possession of t h a t "peace that passeth the comprehension of man." Though the pilgrim soul in search of Masonic light, may a t times become bewildered in the maze of allegory and symbols which veil its presentation of truth, there can be no misunderstanding as to its pronouncement on the immortality of the soul. Taking the evergreen as an emblem of faith it declares to its votaries, " B y it we are reminded that we have an immortal part within us which shall never, never, no never die." At the bier of a departed brother in faith we lift up our hearts in petition to Almighty GOD that " i n His infinite goodness a t the great tribunal of unbiased justice. He will extend His mercy toward him, and all of us, and crown our hope with everlasting bliss in the expanded realms of a boundless eternity."
The Grand Lodge paused long enough in its deliberations to pay their respect t o Past Grand Master WILLIS S. GARDNER, who served as
Grand Master twenty-six years ago. Following the introduction an interesting response was made by this venerable brother and we regret that space will not permit of quoting at least a portion of it. The Report on Fraternal Correspondence was again prepared by that master of the Round Table, M.-. W.-. Brother Louis BLOCK. He
compliments our Grand Lodge by granting us almost eight pages of his excellent review. We quoted quite liberally from his excellent preface one year ago and this year we would be pleased to repeat the offense, but must forego this pleasure in order to provide for others. We likewise regret that we cannot quote his remarks covering other Grand Jurisdictions, all of which would be of interest to our readers. CHARLES E . WEIGHT, M . \ W . \ Grand Master, Clear Lake. CHARLES C . HUNT, R . \ W . ' . Grand Secretary, Cedar Rapids. LOUIS BLOCK, P.-. G.-. M.-., Correspondent, Davenport.
Next Annual, Burlington, June 11, 1929.
IRELAND —1927. Lodges,
; members,
; net gain,
.
Dublin, December 27, 1927. The Rt. Hon. T H E EARL OF D O N OUGHMORE, K . P . , M.-. W . ' . Grand Master.
The Deputy Grand Master presided, and his first duty was that of reading a telegram from their Grand Master, who at this time was in Ceylon, expressing his best wishes to all. In referring to their distinguished Grand Master the Deputy, R.'. W.-. Colonel CLAUDE CANE, had the following to say: To think of supplementing his letter to me by a telegram on the actual day is only a proof of that kindliness and brotherly feeUng which characterises om- Grand Master to so great an extent, and I am sure you will all feel grateful
1928-29.
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to him and proud of lum for the manifestation of kindly feeling to us which this shows (hear, hear). He is, as a greai; many of you know, in Ceylon on a matter of Imperial policy, and of very great importance to the Empire at large. He is the head of a Commission which is enquiring into the circumstances of government in the Island of Ceylon, with a view to making recommendations for the future. I need not tell you that His Majesty the King, and His Majesty's Governmeni, do not lightly appoint people to preside over Commissions of this kind, and it is a source of great pride and pleasure to us that, not only an Irishman, but our Grand Master has been selected for such a great Imperial duty.
The Deputy Grand Master then referred to his eight years of service as Deputy Grand Master, and likewise made reference to a number of other Grand Officers, and from these remarks we take pleasure in quoting the following: The next name I wish to mention is that of one of the very oldest members of the Order in Ireland, Bro. Colonel CHARLES PEPPER, Provincial Grand Master of Meath, and the holder of many other Masonic dignities. Bro. PEPPER was a very old friend of mine—in fact I have known Bro. PEPPER practically all my life, and I can assure you, those who did not know him perhaps as well as some of us did, that he was a notable example of what is becoming rarer in these days—a grand old Irish gentleman. There was nobody more respected in his county and In his Province of Meath. He was a man who, I think, had not an enemy in the world, and everybody who knew him loved him. He was a real Mason in every sense of the word. I never knew any man. who was so full of charity, of which he never boasted, and of which very few^ people knew about. With him it was always the case of his left hand not, knowing what his right hand did. His kindness to people in distress, andJi people who were unfortunately placed in the world was very, very great indeed,, the full extent of which will probably never be known. He lived to a ripe:-, old age, and his end was peace. I was told by one who saw him when he wassi found dead in his bed in the morning, that his face was like that of one who wasr; enjoying a calm, peaceful sleep. Referring t o a visit h e m a d e t o t h e G r a n d Lodge of E n g l a n d to^ a t t e n d a conference of t h e G r a n d Lodge of E n g l a n d , Ireland and! Scotland, he h a d t h e following t o s a y concerning t h e ceremony oi' laying t h e foundation stone of t h e new memorial in L o n d o n : On the day following that Conference we were privileged to witness one of the most magnificent Masonic ceremonies that has ever, I suppose, been held in the world; and that was the laying of the foundation stone of the new building which English Masons are raising to the memory of those Brethren who gave their lives for their country—what they call the Masonic Million Fund over there—the new building which is to replace their present building, at the cost of one million pounds. The Irish deputation which witnessed that great scene in the Albert Hall was composed of—I am sorry to say that LORD DONOUGHMORE was unable to attend, having to preside at a Committee in the House of Lords, and had to be excused so I had to take his place for the time being—the brethren I have named, with the addition of our beloved Colonel PEPPER of whom I have just been speaking. It was a most wonderful and inspiring sight to see that great Albert Hall packed with nearly ten thousand Brethren, all in Masonic clothing. His Royal Highness the DUKE OF CONXAUGHT performed the ceremony of laying the model foundation stone, with that dignity and that fulness of ceremonial of which we know he is a Master, and the Grand Lodge of England carries out so well; while at the same time, two miles away, the actual foundation stone was being laid by means of an.
236
CORRESPONDENCE—IRELAND.
February,
electrical communication, by the touching of a button by His Boyal Highness in the Albert HaU. And still more marvellous, a moment or so after the model stone had been laid in the Albert HaU and speeches had been made—not very long speeches, because I do not think any of us spoke for more than five minutes—by myself, by LOUD BLYTHSWOOD, and by the Grand Master of New York—the doors opened, and the deputation which had actually been engaged in Great Queen Street, two miles away, laying the actual stone, entered and announced that the ceremony had been done in reality. I t was one of the marvels of the twentieth century that one finds hard to beUeve in unless one sees it; but a way had been made for them to come two miles in seven or eight minutes through the crowded streets of London. I t was a most wonderful sight, and the Grand Lodge of England were kind enough to have photographs taken, copies of which will be before you before long in this Hall.
From his conclusion we are pleased to quote the following: Before I sit down, may I say a few words about the future. I said some yeais ago, when things looked their blackest, that I was an optimist, and that I refused to be a pessimist. Well, I think what I said is justified. Our beloved country is slowly emerging from the dark chaos which threatened to overwhelm it not very long ago. I t is a slow process, and we cannot say that everything is exactly as we should wish it to be yet, but we have here, and the Grand Secretary will bear me out, we have here a government wliich has been sympathetic to us, and has recognised t h a t we are a force of law and order if we are anything at all, and we can see that the spirit of intolerance and unfairness, and all that, which pervaded all ranks in Ireland, is considerably softened and mitigated at the present day. You must all remember that we cannot interfere a s a body in politics, but we must, as our bounden duty, do our best as citizens *of that State in which WR live to restoro ?.- feeling of mutual conSdcncc, t c act :for the stability of that State, and for the welfare of our country and society "ill Bcuerai. Tiiafc is one of the first and greatest duties of every Mason who we ^receive into the Order. And if t h a t is done, and if we all do oiir best. Masonry can be the greatest force for good in any country. It is only when Maisonry fails to practice what Is due to itself, and Instead of working for the ibeneflt of society in general, works for the advancement of cliques and parties, ;as we unhappily see in so many foreign countries, where Masonry in Its true Iform has never yet flourished, it is only then that Masonry can be a danger to the country In which it exists.
A sermon was delivered by His Grace, The Lord Primate of all Ireland,, at the Masonic service in Mariner's Church in Kingstown on October 19, 1927, and from this splendid address we quote the following: Faith in GOD was the very foundation of Masonry, as it existed among them. The great art of building, he said, had been taken by the Masonic brotherhood as symbolic of the life of man, as containing within it certain principles of great moral value, and of great significance for all the various departments of our moral and social life. There is the essential thought of Freemasonry. I t rests on the broad basis of the creed which sustains religion. It does not interfere with the expression which faith shapes for Itself in the various Churches. I t takes its stand on what is common to them all. I t is essentially religious, without interfering with the freedom of the individual. Further, Masonry draws from the essential elements of man's work lessons for the moral guidance of life. Taking the greatest and most ancient •of all the arts—the art of the builder—as symbolic of the whole, it enforces the great principles of right conduct. You may say of the Masonic Brotherhood that it is a Society for the cultivation of moral and social virtues. I t seeks
1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—KENTUCKY.
237
the good of its members; it also seeks the good of all rnanklnd; for it cultivates charity both in principle and in practice. The great glory of Masonry is just here; for the cultivation of charity is a benefit to the whole community, and the magnificent charities which Masons support for the benefit of their own members are an example to the whole world. " I G N O R A N T ATTACKS." Sometimes Ignorant attacks are made upon Masonry. I t is said that Masons are anti-Christian; that they cultivate and keep alive ancient forms of paganism; that they are anti-social; that they use their organisation for particular aims as distinguished from the common good. Let one who has been a Mason for forty years give the assurance that, with ample means for judging, he has never seen any sign of these evils. I n my experience, concluded the Primate, you will find among the Masons a very large proportion of those whose lives and doings are for the benefit of the whole community—men who do not limit their good .works to any select circle, but devote themselves with all their hearts to the public good. And to the Masons here assembled I say—the principles of your great brotherhood, founded on faith in GOD, and working out in deeds of charity, lay upon you rhe noble and splendid duty of proving to the world the excellence of the Order to which you belong. May GOD bless and prosper you in all your labours. The Rt. Hon. T H E EARL OF DONOUGHMORE, K . P., M.-.W/.Grand
Master. HENRY C . SHELLARD, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, Dublin.
KENTUCKY-1927. Lodges, 603; members, 65,235; net loss, 1,951. Louisville, October 18, 1927.
CHARLES S. RANKINS, M.-. W.-.
Grand Master. ' The Grand Master spoke as follows in submitting his annual address, and he made good in the matter of his reference to brevity, as his address recites only the more common-place matters and is totally void of anything of a constructive nature: Men, and I think by that expression I am paying you the very highest compliment, I am going to make my remarks brief before reading this report, but those remarks will be to the point. It has been the effort of your Grand Master for the past twelve months to instill Into the hearts of all of whom he has come in contact: Sincerity. I believe the best way we can pay a debt of gratitude to Masonry for being permitted to have our names carried on its roster is by being sincere in our efforts to abide by its teachings. If there is any better way than that I have never heard of it. I t is actually nauseating at times to learn of some members representing practically every walk of life, disregarding entirely the principles of the Fraternity, showing preference for their own views and working to the interest of their personal aggrandizement. I t is true those are in the minority, but times are changing, and it is our duty for the majority of Masons whom I am satisfied are sincere and loyal to stand fast for Masonic principles; so that the honor, glory and reputation of the fraternity may be firmly established and the world at large convinced of its good effects. Let no motive make you swerve from your duty, and by the regularity of your own behavior afford the best example for the conduct of others, whether less informed or not. Think it over and you will agree that theory is one thing and practice is another.
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CORRESPONDENCE—KENTUCKY.
' February,
The following Edict was issued by him during the year: Smoking in the lodge room while lodge is in business session, or during the conference of degrees, should not be permitted, as it debases the dignity and has a tendency to convert the lodge into a club, instead of keeping it on the high plane of solemnity that it should be. Under "Physical Qualifications" he had the following to say in answer to a question as to whether an applicant who had lost the use of one of his arms was eligible: I quoted Article 115 of the Constitution and explained that the last sentence "Of all this the lodge is the sole judge" did not mean thai the lodge was the sole judge as to taking him in regardless of his misfortune, but that whether he could or not receive and instruct others in his own person by exemplification. And to this and tills only was the lodge the sole judge. E ruled t h a t he was ineligible as the law now stands, as he could not in his own person comply with the above. I t seems that one of their lodges granted dimits to three of their members who had been convicted of a felony and were serving time in the penitentiary. In dealing with this subject the Grand Master submitted the following report: After a conference with a member of the Lodge who represented the Master, I informed them that the lodge had erred in granting demits to these members, known to be under indictment and that the members in question stood suspended and could not petition for reinstatement until one year had elapsed after their release according to amendment of October, 1924. to Article 180 of iihe Constitution and then only as provided in Section ISl of the Constitution. I informed them that- the Ledge acticrx as WGli as VLIO ueiuli,s were oi no effect and to see that the applications for reinstatement were handled strictly in accordance with above articles of the Constitution. I also insisted that peace and harmony should prevail in this Lodge or I would e.xercise my prerogative and act accordingly. The Grand Master consumed less than four lines in his conclusion and then winds up by "respectfully submitted". The Grand Treasurer presented an interesting and very complete report, and in view of financial matters in that jurisdiction, we quote the following: I conceive i t to be the duty of your treasurer to call your attention to the additional and increasing obligation. On account of the modern arrangement of the new Home the per capita cost will necessarily be increased and it appears that the population of t h e Home will, before the end of the year, reach six hundred and in all probability may go beyond the capacity of the present • plant.
The Home is supported by the income from the endowment fund, amounting to approximately $09,000 per year, and the assessment of SI.00 from each of the Masons of Kentucky, which sum will not exceed 365,000 per annum. With a per capita of six hundred costing S300 each, we must have 3180,000 per year to operate the. plant. The income from the endowment fund and assessments is not sufficient to meet this expense and I know of but one way to meet it without making an additional assessment on the Craft; that is, to appropriate the annual surplus of the Grand Lodge to the support of the Home.
1928-29.
CoBBESPONDENCE—KENTUCKY.
239
If the Grand Lodge is operated on a most economical plan and no useless or unnecessary appropriations are made, the surplus, together with the usual contributions and donations received, will be sufficient to take care of the deficit and the Grand Lodge will thereby be relieved from making an additional assessment. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r a n n o u n c e d t h a t busses would be r e a d y t o conv e y t h e m e m b e r s t o t h e new Masonic H o m e a t 1:30 P. M., t h e price for t h e r o u n d t r i p being twenty-five cents for each individual. T h i s is quite u n l i k e our practice when our G r a n d L o d g e rheets a t W i c h i t a , t h e location of our Masonic H o m e , as our m e m b e r s are a l w a y s escorted to t h e H o m e as t h e guests of t h e local lodges of t h a t city. F r o m t h e r e p o r t of t h e Building C o m m i t t e e we t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following, knowing t h a t it will a p p e a l t o our own b r e t h r e n as a m a t t e r of interest in view of our a n t i c i p a t e d a n d necessary extension t o our H o m e : We carefully considered what is known as the cottage plan and the dormitory plan and, after taking into consideration the kind and character of children, the time they remained in the home, the cost of maintenance and many other questions relative to management and supervision, we reached the conclusion that the congregation plan was obsolete and that we were unable to maintain the cottage plan. Therefore, we struck a happy medium and adopted a plan that would meet the necessities of the Masons of Kentucky and an institution which they could support and maintain. The buildings may be called dormitories or cottages, but a more suitable name would be '' residence." Each building has a capacity of approximately 70 children. The building Is then subdivided into six dormitories, each dormitory having a capacitj'. of from 12 to 18 children. So that two matrons arc able to take care of 70 children; whereas under the cottage plan it would be necessary to have a matron for each 24 or 35 children. The ciuestion of separate or central dining room was given the most careful consideration. After the committee had agreed upon the plan, which was approved by the superintendent, the matrons, the teachers and others familiar with the Masonic Home, it was submitted to the Board of Directors who approved and adopted the plan. In our report to the 1923 Session of Grand Lodge we submitted the plan and the estimated cost of buildings, 51,583,018.00, and estimated the cost of sewerage and septic tank at 350,000.00, making a total estimate for the buildings, septic tank and sewerage SI,633,018.00. The Grand Lodge approved the plan and at the 1924 Session directed the Building Committee to proceed with the plant according to the plans and specifications adopted. We have completed the plant, including nearly three miles of sewerage system in the grounds, a pump house, an entrance, road lighting, electric sub-feeders and telephone system, outside high tension lines, outside light standards, outside water and gas line, road, sewers in highway, outside heating, walks, wrecking old buildings and half of watchman's salary, for the aggregate sum of 51,571,815.58, which you will observe is less than we estimated the buildings alone would cost.
The Committee on Jurisprudence, among a number of other matters, submitted the following, which was adopted by the Grand Lodge: If the Committee on Appeals of the Grand Lodge shall restore to good standing a Mason who has been suspended or expelled, he is not thereby re-
240
CORRESPONDENCE—LOUISIANA.
.
February,
stored to membership in his lodge, but only restored so far as it affects his standing with the craft a t large, and he may obtain certificate of that fact from the Grand Secretary, which certificate shall operate as a demit.
The writer has never been able to analyze the proposition of granting to any Mason any form of documentary evidence whatever whereby he can throw himself upon the Craft in general, but is deprived of his original membership in his own lodge. We have been unable to locate a list of the Grand Representatives who were in attendance at this Communication, and therefore cannot give credit or refer to the absence of our own. M.'. W.'. Brother WILLIAM W . CLARKE presented the usual Re-
port on Correspondence, and we find a very fraternal and complete review of our 1927 Proceedings. HANSON PETERSON, M . - . Y/.-. Grand Ivlaster, Cyutliiana. F R E D W . HARDWICK, R.-. W . ' . Grand Secretary; Louisville. WILLIAM W . CLARKE, P.". G.-. M.'., Correspondent, Owensboro.
Next Annual, Louisville, October 16, 1928.
LOUISIANA—1928. Lodges, 271; members, 35,191; net gain, 40. New Orleans, February 6, 1928.
EDWIN F . GAYLE, M . ' . W.-.
Grand Master. Kansas was represented at this Annual Communication by Brother HARRY S. WESTON.
The Grand Master presented an interesting address and from the preface we quote the following: During the past year many and diverse causes have interfered with the numerical growth of the fraternity in this state, but there has been no interruption in the growth of t h e fraternity and in its development in every field of activity in which it has been called upon to participate. In the cause of education and in the promotion of sentiment for our public schools; in the upholding of respect for law and the constitutional forms of government; in checldng the tendencies towards vice; in maintaining a high standard of right living and right thinliing. Masonry has performed her part. The destruction and devastation of the torrential floods of the Mississippi River have called forth acts of unselfishness of service and of sacrifice; distressing business conditions; the destruction of the agricultural resources of our state over its most fertile area; trials and hardsliips and adver.^iity have been met with fortitude, suffered in patience and in great measure overcome by industry. There have been no shirkers in the great beeUve of Masonry and under the increasing burdens, the members of the fraternity have pressed onward and upward and have been untiring and unremitting in their zeal and accomplishments.
Many questions were submitted to the Grand Master during the year, and under that head he reports sixty-four. If space would permit it would be interesting to quote some of the questions sub-
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CORRESPONDENCE—LOUISIANA.
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-mitted. M a n y of t h e m are of a n a t u r e which verges on t h e ridiculous a n d indicates b e y o n d a question of d o u b t t h a t t h e t a s k seemed t o be too h e a v y t o refer t o t h e i r laws. Of course Louisiana is n o t alone in this p a r t i c u l a r as i t applies t o other G r a n d Jurisdictions, including •our own. T h e G r a n d M a s t e r was obliged t o repriniand two of their lodges for neglect of d u t y in t h e m a t t e r of inflicting a d e q u a t e p u n i s h m e n t o n t w o of their m e m b e r s , one of w h o m was found guilty a n d t h e o t h e r a d m i t t e d his guilt. I n these cases t h e lodges decided t h a t t h e p u n i s h m e n t should be r e p r i m a n d , while t h e G r a n d M a s t e r t o o k a different view a n d he certainly did a splendid j o b in t h e m a t t e r of r e b u k i n g each of t h e lodges as t h e offense was of a serious n a t u r e . T h e G r a n d Lodge was hospitably entertained b y t h e Shrine. This seems t o be an a n n u a l c u s t o m a n d we d o u b t not a m o s t enjoyable t i m e was h a d . One of t h e pleasant duties performed b y t h e G r a n d M a s t e r d u r i n g his t e r m of office w a s t h e presentation t o our distinguished B r o t h e r C H A R L E S A. L I N D B E R G H , of a gold a n d p l a t i n u m case for c a r r y i n g a m e m b e r s h i p card. F r o m his conclusion we t a k e pleasure in quoting t h e following: A study of Masonic history convinces me that it has been an instrumentality in the hands of Almighty GOD for the working out of human destiny. In the transition of the world and the human race from ihe period of ignorance and intolerance; when men emerged from a couditou of semi-slavery and political and religious oppression to a condition where they might enjoy to some extent, the blessings of political liberty and religious freedom. Masonry was one of the greatest factors and one of the most powerful forces in bringing about this change. You know how closely the history of Masonry is interwoven with the history of our American nation. You know that without the spirit of toleration, the principals of equality and freedom, the devotion to human welfare and progress,the consecration tothecause of political and religious freedom inculcated by Masons and exemplified in their lives and actions, there would have been no one bold enough or brave enough to stand up face to face, eye to eye, and confront autocracy and arrogance by a Declaration of Independence. Without Masonry, the Revolutionary War could not have been fought; without Masonry the colonies could not have been held together and bound by the indissoluble ties of union. In every event in the progress of our nation and our people; in every movement for the betterment of the race and the improvement of social and political conditions. Masonry has been an active factor, ever ready to serve, ever ready to sacrifice, carrying along with it and perpetuating its intense belief in freedom of speech, freedom of conscience and the principle of toleration. I beheve that the preservation and perpetuation of these immortal principles is only to be attained by means of education and this has caused Masonry and Masons to be the foremost champions and advocates of the system of public education. Civilization is marching onward and Masonry is its standard bearer, as ready to serve and sacrifice as it has been in the past. If we keep this thought in mind and absorb the true spirit of Masonry and its belief in the brotherhood of man and the fatherhood of GOD, we will forget our petty differences, our selfish desires and ambitions and we wiU feel ourselves as a part of a great moving force, * * *.
242
CORRESPONDENCE—LOUISIANA.
February,
Through the report of the Committee on Correspondence fraternal recognition was extended to both the York Grand Lodge and the Grand Lodge Valle de Mexico. This action on the part of their Grand Lodge is quite unusual, and the writer wonders how they can reconcile this action with the universal requirernent concerning thesovereignty of Grand Lodges. From the oration delivered by their Grand Chaplain, we takepleasure in quoting the following: We are in danger of making our Masoni'y a kind of club, for our own enjoyment or preferment, instead of a noble philosophy and a helpful scheme of right living. If we are not living a right life, we are covering ourselves with symbols before GOD and man and claiming a master workmanship which we cannot employ—we are murdering the builder witliln us and seeking to gain preferment by the jewel of the slain. Once, in speaking to one of our lodges, I referred to the fact that some time before I had stopped at a filling station, less than a hundred miles from this city, not because I needed anything, but because I had seen a Masonic emblem on that place of business. When I referred to the emblem, the man said that he is a Mason, but that he had not been in his o^vn lodge in twenty years. GOD deliver us from the Mason who sets a Masonic emblem on his place of business to attract the trade of the brethren but does not go within his own lodge in twenty years! He must have paid his dues, but it is not all of Masonry to keep one jump ahead of suspension for non-payment of dues. We need men who love the order, who attend the meetings, who have part in its good works, and who live by the moral teachings of Masonry in all the relations of life—who are good husbands, fathers, brothers and citizens. These we need, but real Masonry iia.5 nn iiiace foi" t-liose who ?.-re clJiimlHg somet-hing they do net deserve and arc masquerading in the jewels of the slaiu. ao we are in danger or living for the material and of losing sight of the spiritual. But " w h a t shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?" The Bible tells us of a man who heaped up riches for himself and said to his soul: "Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years: take thine ease, oat, drink and be merry:" " B u t GOD said unto him, ' Thou fool! this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?' " The Report on Correspondence was again prepared by Brother JOHN A. DAVILLA, and includes a review of our 1927 Proceedings. JAMES H . ROWLAND, M . ' . W . ' . Grand Master, Shreveport. JOHN A. DAVILLA, R . ' . W.". Grand Secretary and Correspondent, New Orleans. Next Annual, New Orleans, February 4, 1929.
•1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—MAINE.
243
MAINE —1928. Lodges, 206; members, 43,897; net gain, 146. Portland, May 1, 1928. DAVID L . WILSON, M.-. W.-. Grand Master. R.-. W.'. ARCHIE L E E TALBOT, our Grand Representative, was present. We take pleasure in quoting the following from the preface to the Grand Master's address: Let us not be slow to aclcnowledge with gratitude our dependence upon the Supreme Architect of the Universe, without whose aid nothing of constructive and enduring quality could have been builded into that temple of character upon which we have been laboring. I t is as true of us as it was of our ancient Grand Master, SOLOMON, King of Israel, into whose mouth the Psalmist puts the words, "except JEHOVAH build the house, they labour in vain that build it." When our illustrious brother BENJAMIN FRANKLIN arose to address the convention assembled to frame a Constitution for our country, he used these same words, saying he believed that "without GOD'S concurring aid we shall proceed in this political building no better than the builders of Babel." So may we not, my brethren, in grateful appreciation of all His blessings to the •craft, and in humble solicitation of His benediction upon all our deliberations, proceed to the worlc of this communication. The Grand Master was asked by one of his lodges whether it would be proper for them to lend their aid in an effort to secure a pardon for a brother who had been convicted in the Supreme Court of the crime of embezzlement. The Grand Master answered the question in the following words: The lodge will have nothing to do with such a procedure. If his friends desire to make such a move as individuals, that is their prerogative, but it is not the business of a Masonic Lodge to be seeking a pardon for an individual justly convicted in tlie criminal courts. Indeed, it is the business of a Masonic Lodge to "keep its membership free from any stain of such violation of the law of the land. I t is a Masonic offence for a brother to violate the law of the country. May I ask why your lodge has not proceeded to bring to trial a brother who has been convicted in a criminal court and is now serving a sentence in the State prison? That should be your procedure rather than making any effort to secure freedom for a man justly convicted of crime. One of their brethren asked the Grand Master whether the term " Masonic" could be used in the name of an organization other than a lodge. To this the Grand Master answered as follows: While there is nothing In the Constitutions and Regulations regarding this, it would seem to me to be the part of wisdom not to use the term " M a sonic" for anything that does not relate directly to Masonry. There Is a regulation that forbids lodges using the name of a lodge in reference to balls or dancing, or to advertise them, or sell tickets of admission thereto. I t would appear to me that we would be on the safe and better side if we reserved the term "Masonic" for things that are purely stich, and not attach it to organizations which, while they may be composed entirely of Masons, have no vital relation whatever to the fraternity. I t might save much trouble a t times.
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CORRESPONDENCE—MAINE.
February,
The following question and answer will no doubt be interesting to our readers: Queslimi: I had a very interesting communication from the brethren who are in the MACMILLAN Expedition in the Far North, which was sent by radio to our Grand Secretary. They wanted to know if the Grand Master could not do something for them whereby they could open a lodge down there on the "Labrador." Answer: Through our Grand Secretary, and the courtesy of the Radio Station which piclfed up their message, I sent word that the eight Masons in the expedition could assemble and exemplify the degrees among themselves whenever they desired, always observing due caution and secrecy from the members of the crew not Masons. That is their privilege. But I could not grant a dispensation to open a lodge, because there would be no permanency to it. Incidentally, I sent our greetings to Commander MACMILLAN and all other brethren in the expedition.
Under the head of "Degrees in Les.si than the Required Time" the Grand Master had the following to say: It has been discovered through returns to the office of the Grand Secretary, that a number of lodges during the year have given the several degrees to candidates in less time than* that required by the regulations of the Grand Lodge. This has been done without the formality of securing a dispensation from the Grand Master. I do not Imow whether this has been done through ignorance of the regulation requiring two weeks to elapse between the conferring of degrees, or through wilful violation of that regulation. There is no excuse for either situation. The Grand Secretary has notified each of t h e lodges involved of the irregularity of the proceedings, and of the necessity of "healing" ail the candidatcG who were advanced. Graiiu Lodge regulaiious are enacted to be obeyed: not to'be violated. It is impossible for such violations to get by the scrutiny of the Grand Secretary's office, and they only cause trouble for the lodges and candidates concerned. Brother CHARLES B . DAVIS, their efficient and faithful
Grand
Secretary, received the following from the Grand Master, and he certainly well deserves it, and in fact to the notion of the writer, it would not be a bad plan to throw in a few bouquets while our good Brother CHARLIE is still alive: I cannot forbear, nor have I the slightest desire so to do, to pass out of the Grand East without a tribute of my esteem and regard for our Grand Secretary, whose unfailing courtesy and constant assistance have been a great aid and joy to me. He is an indefatigable labourer, a master workman for the craft. And the Grand Lodge is to be congratulated thai It has in its Grand Secretary one so thoroughly devoted to its welfare. I salute him with gratitude as I recall his many kindly and efilcient services to me during these past two years. F r o m t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s conclusion w e q u o t e t h e following: Masonry stands today in this grand old State of Maine unalterably dedicated to the ideals that are its ancient landmarks; the ideals of friendsiiip, brotherly love, relief, of justice, righteousness, of truth; of temperance, fortitude, prudence and patriotism. There will never be any question as to where Masonry stands In regard t o these great and commanding Ideals of life, but there is surely a tremendous opportunity for a wider and fuller expression of
1928-29.
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245
them among us. More than anything else; more ihan an increasing linowledge of our forms and ceremonies, great and Important as these are; infinitely more than a constant augmentation of our numbers, splendid though that may be, l a m concerned that these great ideals, which alone make life worth while, should find free and fuller expression among us. For it is only thus that we can be "good men and true," and the great fraternity of which we are a part have a proper presentation before the world. We are pre-eminently builders; builders of character in ourselves; givers of our assistance everywhere that men may do the same thing for themselves. As our ancient bretliren laboured with fervency and zeal that they might construct a magnificent and majestic temple to the glory of GOD, SO must we labour to erect within ourselves a temple of character that will be as pleasing to our GOD, as our ancient brethren deemed their earthly temple would be. We note the Chairman of the Committee on Correspondence is paid the.sum of $500.00 per annum, while the Grand Secretary receives only $2,500.00. To the notion of the writer, if the Grand Secretary were paid an amount based on his work as compared with that of the Correspondent he would receive considerably more than the amount indicated above. Brother ASHLEY A. SMITH prepared the Report on Correspondence, and we take pleasure in quoting the following from his "Foreword": It was HEGEL, one of the profoundest minds of his time, who said that as a studeiit of history he had noticed " t h e Idea creates the Institution but in the end the Institution smothers the Idea." Signs are not wanting that something like this is insidiously over-taking and smothering the Masonic Idea. Our comparatively • modern Masonic Institutionalism, with its elaborately organized philanthropies, was, in all probability, never contemplated by the original founders of the Masonic Fraternity. We have only to read once more, those early constitutions, to see how far we have departed from the original intention and spirit of the Order. Masonic Charity was a first-hand and a first-aid proposition, not something to be done by proxy, or committee or anything approaching a mere officialism. A re-reading or repeating of every obligation of the symbolic degrees would suggest that Institutionalism was wholly foreign to the genesis and genius of Freemasonry. The writer seldom quotes from the Report on Correspondence in other Grand Jurisdictions, but we feel justified in making an exception in this splendid review of our 1927 Proceedings, and here goes: To your Maine correspondent the most impressive and informing part of these annual proceedings of Kansas are the twenty-three pages given to the unveiling of the monument cited above. I t was a well arranged program, with appropriate music, fitting orations and a historical account of these two pioneer souls in the early days of the Craft. Splendid photographs of both men are given and reveal the kind of heroic worth which carved out the destiny of Kansas in those early days. The name JOHN SMITH of course, has received the good natured jests of generations of would be humorists, but when you see the clear cut features as in tliis volume of this particular JOHN SMITH, you know a t once that this was a strong, virile personality which did credit to the name in Kansas, as did another (Capt.) JOHN SMITH in the early days of the Virginia colony. If like M A B K TWAIN'S familiar story of calling for his old
246
COBBESPONDENCE—MANITOBA.
February,
friend JOHN SMITH in a spiritualist's seance and having the meeting wreclied by the number of that name which appeared in the cabinet, we should call for JOHN W . SMITH of Kansas we should expect but one; this strong, clear-cut, rugged face which appears in this Kansas volume. HAROLD E . COOK, M / . W.-. Grand Master, Gardiner. CHARLES B . DAVIS, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, Portland. ASHLEY A. SMITH, Correspondent, Bangor. Next Annual, Portland, May 7, 1929.
MANITOBA —1928. Lodges, 103; members, 11,875; net gain, 128. Wiiiiiipeg, June 13, 1923. jAiiKz MiLLEK, M.-. W.". Grand Master. We feel highly complimented in having as our Grand Representative the one who presided in the Grand East at this Communication and served the Craft in that capacity during the year—M.'. W.'. Brother JABEZ MILLER. We quote the following from the preface to the address of the Grand Master: I would remind you, my brethren, that we are here not merely for the purpose Ci rcviGW, nor uO cong^rauu^aue OursciTes on UIAO accoijipiioiiiiiejiijs oi the past. I t is our business to ascertain whether Masonry, by our individual and united efforts, has made as fine a contribution to the moral and spiritual betterment of our time as we all appreciate it is eminently capable of making. I t Is our duty to study and formulate plans for the future, to gain and to give instruction, to endeavor to know and understand each other better, and to endeavor to reach fair a n d wise decisions on the questions of serious import which will be presented for our consideration. I ask for your thoughtful, serious and kindly consideration to the entire business of the session, to the end that Masonry in this Jurisdiction may maintain the high ideals and traditions of the past and go forward to greater accomplishments in the future. We take the following few interesting words from the report of the Committee on Condition of Freemasonry: A Masonic lodge while fundamentally neither a social rendezvous, a relief board, a financial corporation nor a reformatory, may a t times, by reason of untoward circumstances have to function temporarily as one of them. But such deviation from the true path must be a short detour only, or the sense of direction may be lost and a period of wandering in the wilderness follow. The brethren cannot be reminded too often that the purpose of Masonry is spiritual education, directed in congenial surroundings conducive to meditation: fireworks, the big drum and the trombone while serviceable elsewhere are not for us. The Committee on Masonic Research and Education, among other things, had the following to say: In an organization such as ours, which traces its practices and principles into a remote past which makes continual efforts to preserve, in purity of form and e.Kpression, Its records, ricual and rites, and has been frequently the centre
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CORRESPONDENCE—MANITOBA.
247
of controversy and criticism; in such an organization gathering its membership from all creeds and nationalities and its history threaded through the struggles of the world, the importance and necessity of research must be apparent. Many of the finest nainds in our fraternity are engaged in piecing to- ' gether tl^e story of our craft from the fragmentary records of the past,—searching in hidden and forgotten and often most unlikely records, for traces of our existence and influence. The results of their labors are at the disposal of the brethren through increasingly abundant books and periodicals. To place these results within reach of every member in this jurisdiction is one of our ambitions. A new country such as Western Canada, might be considered unlikely ground in which to encourage research by means of disseminating the stories of others successes,—but your Committee feel that from the point of view of our brief history and cosmopolitan membership, there is ample ground for original effort; from our own membership representing in their experiences such a wide range of activity and circumstances, gathered from the older countries and centres of population; reaching back to the early days of struggling pioneering; and on to our present standard of organization, there is room for many contributions to the story of the past, forming as well, reliable records and inspiration for the future. Following up this thought, it has been realized how easy it is to permit the records of even comparatively young lodges, to become dissipated, and , fragmentary, so with the object of establishing an historical section of our Library, we have asked all Lodges t o file with us a record of where and how their records and minute books were preserved, and to place a file with our Librarian —a brief history of their Lodge. A number have complied, but your Committee feel that perhaps the object in view was not fully appreciated or a greater number, and in fact all Lodges would have readily complied with our request. The result, we feel sure, would have been of material interest and a valuable addition to the facilities available to the craft through the Library.
We quote the following from the report of the Committee on Fraternal Dead: We have attempted many things, some have succeeded, but so many have failed, and when we seek to find what it was that brought success and what caused failure, we And that the fault is largely our own. We have been unwiUlng to obey, self and self Interest has been often in evidence, and we have not thought of the claim of humanity. But as we look back into the year that has now closed, we cannot forget those who were with us in person or in spirit at our last annual gathering, and who are now no longer here. They have been called to higher service—to the Grand Lodge above—we are left to carry on the work they attempted to perform. We would here express a real sympathy for those who have been bereaved and who now are feeling a great loss, and we pray that the great Father of all may supply all their need.
In the Report on Correspondence prepared by M.-. W.'. Brother JAMES S. MACEWING we find a review of our 1928 Proceedings^
We
appreciate his kindly reference to the writer and from a Masonic point of view we plead guilty to his reference " t h a t genial old veteran, R.'. W.'. Brother W I L S O N " , but from a point of age in actual years we
scarcely believe we are entitled to the words "old veteran" as we have not yet reached our seventieth milestone. His remarlcs, however, are so kind that we appreciate them and take no exception whatever to the personal allusion to the one writing this report. Brother MAC-
248
COBRESPONDEIVCE—MARYLAND.
February,
EWING'S forni in the report is a little out of the ordinary as he throws the name of the jurisdiction to the left hand margin of the report instead of centering it. We rather like the arrangement as it looks quite neat. MuRDO A. WHIMSTER, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, Hamiota.JAMES A. OVAS, R . - . W.-. Grand Secretary, Winnipeg. J. C. WALKER R E I D , Correspondent. (No address given.)
Next Annual, Winnipeg, June 12, 1929.
MARYLAND —1927. Lodges, 118; members, 33,235; net gain, 603. Semi-Annual Communication held in Baltimore, May 10, 1927. WARREN S . SEIPP, M.-. W.-. Grand Master.
After the Grand Lodge was opened the Grand Master, as usual, was escorted to the Grand East by the Grand Marshal, Grand Pursuivant and Grand Director of Ceremonies. - We note from the Grand Lecturer's report that he made a total of 223 visits, including Lodges of Instruction by himself and his assistants. His report is interesting throughout and indicates that his heart is in the work. TTT_
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thsit the^'' sr^ court-in"" ^r^.^'^rnsil r'^co^n^^^'^n b^^ the GrEnd Orient of the Netherlands. It is rather unusual for an American Grand Lodge to make application to an almost unknown so-called Grand Lodge for this honor. This, however, is a matter of their own, but we cannot view it from the same standpoint ourselves. The Annual Communication was held in Baltimore, November 15, 1927, with M.'. W.-. Brother WARREN S. S E I P P as Grand Master.
We are pleased to note that our Grand Representative, Brother JACOB ROHRBACH, was present.
From the Grand Master's brief address we take pleasure in quoting the following: Conditions In the past few years liave made such changes in our methods and modes of living, that I am fully convinced we should change our laws to meet them. For instance, I would strongly recommend a revision of the law concerning reinstatement after suspension for nonpayment of dues. I also believe t h a t a time limit should be placed upon every member, beyond winch, dues should not be allowed to accumulate. I t is also strongly recommended that our own membership be required to show their dues cards before being admitted into any Lodge, including cheir own. I sincerely trust this matter will be given serious consideration by the Grand Lodge.
* * * * * * Extreme care should be taken to safeguard our portals. No man should be argued into Masonry. Committees shoiUd be urged to do their duty and told how to conduct themselves when appointed. A real Mason would never
1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—MASSACHUSETTS.
249
give tongue to an idle rumor without first verifying the truth of the statement, and in connection with our Fraternity, this one thing has caused no end of annoyance by the practice of certain individuals in trying to tell all that tihey knew, for he who tells all that he knows often tells more than he knows. Let your slogan be "Cooperation." Should anything occur with which you are not familiar, or with which you do not agree, it is the easiest thing in the world to check up and find our the truth of the matter before casting it to the four winds of Heaven. Our criticism should be for ourselves, our work should be for the Fraternity, and the results will be a coalescence that will result to the greater glory of GOD.
The following standing regulation was adopted, which to the notion of the writer is the best way to dispose of the question of nonpayment of dues: Subordinate Lodges shall suspend from niembershlp without trial after one months' notics to the delinquent, all members who shall fail to pay regular dues for two years. Members suspended for non-payment of dues may be reinstated only by unanimous ballot upon petition in regular form and payment of all arrearages of dues owing at the time of suspension. This resolution shall in no way affect the right of a Lodge to remit the dues of a mem-; ber.
The Report on Correspondence was again prepared by Brother HENRY BRANCH, and we are under obligations to him for a splendid
review of our own Proceedings. WARREN S . SEIPP, M . ' . W.". Grand Master, Baltimore. GEORGE COOK, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, Baltimore. HENRY BRANCH, Correspondent, Leesburg, Virginia.
Next Annual, Baltimore, November 20, 1928.
MASSACHUSETTS —1927. Lodges, 312; members, 123,661; net loss, 830. Quarterly Communication, March 9, 1927.
FRANK L . SIMPSON,
M.'. W.'. Grand Master. The Grand Master in submitting his report first refers to the passing away of several of their prominent members. He submits a lengthy report under the head of " Release of Jurisdiction", and from the detail portion of it we take it that the practice of one lodge waving jurisdiction in favor of another has become a gift rather than a habit, or possibly it has resolved itself into a question of sentiment. The writer appreciates the force of the Grand Master's argument and we are inclined to believe that our own law on this subject is much better as under no circumstances can a lodge waive jurisdiction over material residing within its jurisdiction so long as, he remains a resident therein.
250
CORRESPON
DENCE—MASSACHUSETTS.
February,
He reports bequests to the Home amounting to $3,200.00. Under t h e subject of "Benevolence" among other thing.s, he had the following to say: Masonry teaches benevolence and exemplifies the teaching by relief of distress. I t is altogether advisable that our Brethren shall come into as close contact as possible with all our benevolent activities in order that they may feel that they are part of these activities and may share in the exercise which shall develop them as benevolent men. Moreover, I hope you will yourselves visit and will invite your Brethren to visit the Home as often as may be made convenient. Such a visit is not only a good thing for the Brother who makes it, but it is good for our guests. I recently spent a day and two nights a t the Home in company with M.-. W.-. Brother FEBBELL, and 1 came away refreshed in spirit and with a renewed conviction of the worth-while character of our Institution. I am sure that the visits of the Brethren are a source of a great deal of happiness to our elderly guests; and thus, as is generally the case when good works are undertaken, they result in quite as great a benefit tn those who attempt to do them as to those for whom they arc done. Under the subject of "Better Understanding" he had the following to say: I t seems t o me that there are evidences of a livelier interest in the Craft in the administration of its affairs, and that a better understanding is developing not only as to what the Grand Lodge is, but of what it is doing This understanding should be encouraged and increased by all legitimate means. Abstracts from the Grand Constitutions, containing those provisions most intimately relating to the concerns of the Lodges, of Brethren, and of candidates have recently been priiiled. These abstracts are bound in convenient size, and have been sent to all the Worshipful Masters. Wardens, and .qooret?_rie? of the Lodges. They are available for other officers and members who desire them, upon request of the Worshipful Masters. It seems clear to me that argument is not required to demonstrate that every Mason ought to be familiar with the structure of the government of our Institution and with the common rules which govern the conduct of the individual Mason. Not only should he want to know these things because the spirit of our Institution has meant so much to our country, but the circumstances under which he has assumed the obligation to stand to and abide by our Constitutions and laws do not permit of indifference or ignorance of their requirements. The injunction to cause the Constitutions to be read in our Lodges is not an empty phrase but is based upon a very real conception of the obligation we owe t o our Brethren to see to it t h a t the laws which they are bound to obey shall be farmliar to them. I feel certain that inestimable benefit will result to the Fraternity if this injunction is strictly and literally observed; and I therefore urge the Worshipful Masters to see to It that the Constitutions, especially those portions which deal with the government of the Craft, the duties and privileges of Brethren, and those which deal with the purposes of our Institution, are read in their Lodges, at regular Intervals. We note the Committee on Ritual made some recommendations concerning the proper method of giving the public and private Grand Honors, as well as the grip and word of the Master Mason degree. We are somewhat surprised that questions of this kind should be raised in the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts as we all look to this jurisdiction as a sort of Masonic father and the cradle of Freemasonry in this country.
1928-29.
CoBBESPONDENCE—MICHIGAN.
251
T h e G r a n d Lodge, u p o n t h e r e c o m m e n d a t i o n of t h e G r a n d M a s t e r , has e n t e r e d i n t o a n a r r a n g e m e n t with t h e publishers of t h e Master Mason, in which a special edition is t o be p r i n t e d for t h e G r a n d J u r i s diction of M a s s a c h u s e t t s . T h e s e publications are to be liberally dist r i b u t e d a m o n g t h e Craft in t h a t s t a t e . T h e G r a n d M a s t e r s u b m i t t e d a n interesting r e p o r t on t h e G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e s y s t e m , calling a t t e n t i o n t o t h e fact t h a t it was first organized in 1840 a n d a l t h o u g h several a t t e m p t s h a d been m a d e b y their G r a n d L o d g e t o a d o p t t h i s practice it was never done. T h e last t i m e t h e proposition was presented t o G r a n d Lodge was in 1869. H e r e c o m m e n d e d t h e a d o p t i o n of this plan of exchanging. G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e s w i t h a view of forming a closer relationship b e t w e e n t h e several G r a n d Jurisdictions. T h e committee s u b m i t t e d t h e proper form of a m e n d m e n t t o t h e i r laws, which will be acted on a t t h e next C o m munication. P R A N K L . SIMPSON, M . - . W . ' . Grand Master, Swampscott. F R E D E R I C K W . H A M I L T O N , R . - . W . - . G r a n d Secretary, M a s o n i c Temple, Boston.
MICHIGAN —1928. Lodges, 499; m e m b e r s ; 150,650; net gain, 1,522. D e t r o i t , M a y 22, 1928. GEORGE W. G R A V E S , M . - . W . - . G r a n d Master. O u r faithful G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e , B r o t h e r WILLIAM , H . G A L L A G H E R , was p r e s e n t .
Prelirhinary t o t h e r e g u l a r C o m m u n i c a t i o n of t h e G r a n d L o d g e t h e y were e n t e r t a i n e d w i t h orchestral a n d other music. T h e y were honored a t this C o m m u n i c a t i o n w i t h m a n y d i s tinguished guests from o t h e r G r a n d Jurisdictions, all of w h o m weres e p a r a t e l y i n t r o d u c e d t o t h e G r a n d M a s t e r a n d presented t o t h e G r a n d Lodge. A m o n g t h e s e b r e t h r e n was P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r J O H N A. R O W L A N D of O n t a r i o , C a n a d a , who was i n t r o d u c e d b y P a s t G r a n d M a s t e r R O B E R T P . A N D E R S O N , in t h e following w o r d s : A few moments ago it was my pleasure to introduce to you the Most Worshipful Grand Master of Canada, and you will recall that I stated that regard was held for the northern country in various ways; if I did not so state, I will now in presenting this Brother. AVe regard our Brethren of the northern Jurisdiction in a friendly spirit; we mingle together. But some of our countrymen on this side of the line look at them in a different manner, as is illustrated in the saying that " Four-and-twcnty Southerners, feeling rather dry. Went into Canada to get a case of rye. When the case was opened they all began to sing 'We don't give a whoop for Yanky-doodle, But GOD save the king.' "
252
CORRESPONDENCE—MICHIGAN.
February.
In referring to the Potentate of the Shrine the Grand Master, among other things, had the following to say, which would indicate that when one advanced to the realms of the Mystic Shrine he had attained the highest pinnacle of fame in Freemasonry: I want to say to you, sir, that for myself personally that your attitude, your character, your Masonic life, has not changed one bit from that of a Master Mason to that of a Potentate of a Shrine or Divan wUch you represent.
We note Past Grand Master FEAD introduced the Governor of Michigan but failed to give his name. Of course our Michigan brethren are well aware of the name of their governor, but the busy man, reading the report of the proceedings, is not disposed to look up the historical files of our nation and secure this information. The day was saved, however, later on when the Grand Master announced the name of this distinguished guest. Owing to the presence of several distinguished brethren from Canada the Grand Master directed that the altar be draped with the Union Jack. This suggests to the writer that it might be a good plan for the Grand Lodge of Michigan to amend their laws and provide for a full equipment of flags of all countries with which they are in fraternal correspondence. We. note an address of welcome was extended the brethren by a representative of what is termed " The Masters' Association of Wayne County", whatever that means. When the Grand Lodge resumed labor in the afternoon of the first day one would think from the Proceedings that it was a meeting of the Supreme Council of the Scottish Rite and not the Grand Lodge of Michigan, as we note the first order of business was a tribute paid to the Deputy of the Supreme Council for that state by the Grand Secretary. The proceedings were rather unusual as there is nothing to indicate that the Grand Master recognized this procedure in the usual formal way, in fact the writer has been unable to figure out the motive which prompted this action as it was purely a Scottish Rite function and had nothing whatever to do with the affairs of the Grand Lodge. Immediately preceding the presentation of the Grand Master's address we find a splendid likeness of this distinguished brother, which adds very materially to the appearance of the Proceedings. From the preface to the address of the Grand Master we take pleasure in quoting the following: Here we shall hope to deliberate as men and Masons, and may the results of such acts be for a greaoer and better understanding among us, as men and as Master Masons, from which may only good be derived. To you, my Brethren, who have for many years carried the burden of this Grand t o d g e do we give thanks, to Him who has watched over you and made it possible for your presence here today. In loving memory do we here grieve the absence of our departed Brethren; not only in our own Jurisdiction do we mourn for those who have passed beyond, but those of our Sister Jurisdictions in whose loss we sympathize.
1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—MICHIGAN.
253
To you Brethren, who of the Grand Lodge have for years composed this Body as representatives, and to those who for the first time are representing their Lodges, I hope will enjoy your visitation. Your responsibilities should be for the greater good of this Fraternity in your deliberations on matters concerning IJS welfare and interests, not for the moment but for years to come should be considered and decided. No radical movements nor suggestions derogatory to the interest of your state or country has ever been or will be presented at these communications. As Grand Master, I have considered the matters of this Grand Lodge seriously and at all times for its best interests. I have tried to be just, and impartial in my judgment; I have also been exacting in tlie business of Grand Lodge, that each Lodge shall fulfil its responsibilities and obligations to Grand Lodge, and I am thankful to them for having measured up to my expectations, once they understood. I am selfishly proud of the men who compose this Great Fraternity, and T feel humble in the presence of this evidence of friendship and generosity of the Master Masons who made me their Grand Master. I have also learned that the ladder of Grand Lodge has many rounds and that the trail is long. I am profoundly grateful for the confidence reposed. *
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4
4t
You will find no eloquence in this message to you, my Brethren, rather would I wish that you find a devotion to you as my friends and Brothers, whom I love as one man loves another, and who I admire as Master Masons. I should like these thoughts to possess the sincerity and the deep satisfying glow of undemonstrative affection that seems to be peculiar to enduring friendship between men. During the year the Grand Master dedicated thirteen Masonic Temples which speaks well for the Grand Lodge of Michigan. Under the head of "Functions and Visitations" we note the Grand Master attended one hundred ninety-seven. Under the head of "Special Assessment of One Dollar for the Masonic Home", he refers to the neglect of several lodges to meet this obligation, and very properly offers the following comment: But when a Lodge refuses to comply with the Constitucion, Regulations and By-Laws of this Granii Lodge, or feels that it should be exempted above all other Lodges who enact by legislation the laws of this Grand Lodge, then it would seem that the proper method to pursue would be to return their charter to the Grand Lodge and stop writing letters to blame the Grand Master for the discharge of his duties. Under the head of "Use of Masonic Lodge Rooms" the Grand Master states that during his term of office he had several requests from various chapters of what is termed the White Shrine of Jerusalem, evidently an adjunct of the Eastern Star, for permission to use the Masonic Lodge rooms for exemplifying their work. The requests were promptly refused. The subject was referred to the Committee on Jurisprudence, who submitted the following report: The law of this Grand Lodge specifically provides what organizations may occupy Lodge rooms. To permit any organizations other than those now named would require an amendment to the law. Tills cannot be done at this Annual Communication for the reason that no such amendment has been proposed in accordance with Grand Lodge Constitution.
254
CORRESPONDENCE—MICHIGAN.
February,
While the writer finds no fault with the regulations of the Grand Lodge of Michigan on this subject, yet we wonder what they are doing about the other thirty-nine or forty similar organizations predicating their membership either directly or indirectly on Masonry. The Grand Master took exception to what is termed The Club Marjnzine evidently published by an organization predicating their membership on Freemasonry, publishing or printing political advertisements. His objection, however, had no effect as it seems under their laws they are unable to reach organizations of this kind. Under the head of "Masonic Outside Relief" he had the following to say: I t is found that few Lodges make periodical investigations of their outside relief cases. The Home Welfare investigation, a system which has been adopted this year, has convinced several Lodges that outside relief was unnecessary: reports of these investigations having been sent to the Lodges, and after their own Investigation t o check the report, the Lodges have been convinced that there is sufficient income to have the cases disconiinued. Charity and relief by the Lodges of Michigan has been and will always continue, I hope, to be their paramount ideals, but. when those ideals are abused and taken advantage of, .It becomes another matter. The Lodges cannot afford by means of relief to provide pianos, victrolas, radios, or assist in the pui'chase or operating of automobiles, the additions to homes or the keeping or supporting of adult children who are earning good wages, who refuse to assist their parents by paying sufficient board. These matters are brought to your attention that proper investigation be marie before the Lodges assume the cases, and after assuniou uliat occasionally visits be made as a check up on conditions to ascertain if the relief should be increased, reduced or discontinued. U n d e r t h e head of " P e r s o n a l R e p r e s e n t a t i v e s of t h e G r a n d M a s t e r I n v e s t i g a t i o n s " a m o n g other things, h e r e p o r t e d t h e following: I t has been found in several Lodges that members have been suspended and even expelled from Lodges on supported motions, without the semblance of a Masonic Trial, and some have been reinstated by motion without vote. Dances and card parties have been held in Lodge Rooms where it was later proved that the Offlcers of the Lodges lacked the knowledge of Masonic Law rather than wilfully disobeying it. Certain Lodges have failed to hold their Eegular Communications for lack of quorum of Offlcers and sufficiently interested Brothers attending Lodge. One Lodge in particular had neglected to hold eight Regulars and no Specials for lack of material. I am happy to report, however, since investigation by Rt. "Wor. Deputy Grand Master NEWTON that that Lodge is now working with new energy and is more interested in its existence than ever before.
* * * * * * * I t has also been discovered than some Lodges are permitting Non-Resident Members to pay a smaller amount for dues than resident members, to enable the Lodges to hold the membership for the revenue derived. That is absolutely against the law of Grand Lodge, and naturally where found has been rectified.
* * * * * * Brethren of the Grand Lodge, it is the opinion of your Grand Master that the time has arrived when more consideration should be given to the welfare of the Lodges than has been given heretofore.
1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—MICHIGAN.
255
These investigations, witli ttiose of other Grand Lodge Officers, whom T liave been detailed or issued proxies, have convinced the Grand Master that the Lodges have been permitted to operate too long already without the proper supervision from ttds Grand Lodge: they have in many cases been left to their own resources, who have not been in all cases fully competent to meet all issues. The records of many Lodges are not kept as they should be kept, for lack of proper instruction. The question might be asked how do these Lodges prepare their Annual Report; that is easily accomplished, for the reason that all instructions in the prepared report blank are given, but not always followed. There is a need for personal contact with Grand Lodge Officers or a Grand Lodge Representative in the Lodges, for counsel, help and encouragement in their efforts—not for entertainment purposes but to assist in the many diificulties arising. I regret to relate that your Grand Master has visited Lodges this year which have not heretofore seen a Grand Lodge Officer inside their door since the day the Lodge was instituted or their Temple Dedicated. We quote t h e following, being t h e last p a r a g r a p h of t h e subject of " B o n d s of Masonic C l u b " : From these matters it would appear that the Grand Lodge should interest itself in the use of the word Masonic and not permit it to be used without its approval and written consent. No body of Masons are permitted to institute a Masonic Lodge without a dispensation, the act of Grand Lodge and a Charter permitting the use of the word Masonic, while on the other hand the word Masonry or Masonic is being adopted and used without consideration of this Grand Lodge. I n s u p p o r t of t h e a n t i p a t h y of t h e writer to outside organizations predicating their m e m b e r s h i p on F r e e m a s o n r y he would call a t t e n t i o n t o an Edict p r o m u l g a t e d b y t h e h e a d of a n organization known as t h e " G r o t t o of t h e M y s t i c Order Veiled P r o p h e t s of t h e E n c h a n t e d R e a l m " which t h e G r a n d M a s t e r spread in full in his address. We simply quote t h e portions which in themselves are conclusive t h a t t h e s e organizations reflect no credit upon our t i m e honored institution, b u t on t h e c o n t r a r y lead t h e public t o believe t h a t t h i s is a display of Ancient Craft M a s o n r y : The wearing in public of women's apparel, or any costume of sugge.stiveness, by Prophets; the humiliating of candidates in parade or public, by obnoxious dress, painting of faces, or ludicrous costumes; the molesting of women on the streets or in public, or the committing of any act that lowers the dignity of the Order, is prohibited. / . Night Parades. Prophets are expressly prohibited from participating in any so-called Mardi-Gras, or night, or midnight, parade, whether officially, publicly, privately or otherwise sponsored. At no time shall Prophets appear in public wearing vulgar or suggestive costumes, night-shirts or pajamas, obnoxious dress or ludicrous costumes, nor women's apparel of any kind or description. All serenades and visits to respective Grotto or Supreme Council Headquarters made by bands, drum and bugle corps, glee clubs, drill teams and other auxiliary bodies, shall be made only in regular uniform, or in civilian clothes, the usual and regular dress of a Prophet.
256
COBBESPONDENCE—MICHIGAN.
February,
II. Street Deportment. The molesting of women on the streets or In public places is ConsEltucionally prohibited. The using of concealed electric batteries and noisemaUlng devices such as a rosined cord attached to tin cans or other hollow receptacles, the dragging or throiving of cow-beUs, and all other noise-making devices, is prohibited. The pa.ssing in public of printed cards bearing suggestive phrases or verses and obscene souvenirs, and the passing or throwing of tissue paper of any kind or description is prohibited. III. Intoxicating Liquors. The serving of intoxicating liquors at or through any so-called headquarters of any Grotto, or the distributing of same either publicly or privately by any Prophet or group of Prophets, or any public display of drinking or drunkenness by a Prophet, is hereby expressly prohibited.
Under the head of "Clandestine Lodges" the Grand Master, in deliberating on this subject, promulgated a communication from which we quote the following: It has come to my attention that persons are attempting to create and operate Lodges in the State of Michigan, without authority from this Grand Lodge of F. &. A. M. of Michigan, and are now and have for some time past been receiving applications and attempting to make Master Masons, and are endeavoring to visit Lodges of this Jurisdiction. In order that the Craft of Michigan may be protected against such as are declared to be clandestine, and in order that "imposters" may be detected and discovered, it is necessary that all Lodges in this Grand Jurisdiction be on Kiiard and not admit or attempt examination of any one claimiug to be a Master JNIason in good standing who is a stranger desiring to visit a Lodge, unless ne be a member of a Lodge, acknowledging allegiance to this Grand Lodge, or a member of a Legally Chartered Lodge whose Grand Lodge is fraternally recognized by us. Article VIII, Section 2 of the Constitution provides:—Any and all Organizations, Associations or persons within the State of Michigan professing to have any authority, powers or privileges in ancient Craft Masonry, not derived from this Grand Lodge, are declared to be clandestine and illegal, and all Masonic intercourse with or recognition of them, or any of them, is prohibited.
This will give the readers some idea as to conditions not only in Michigan but in several other places in the United States, which should cause them to be very careful and wherever necessary appeal to their Grand Master for advice. In the same communication under the caption of "Procedure of Examination and Admission" he had the following to suggest: The Tiler shall personally deliver to the Junior Deacon (if Lodge Is open, or to the Secretary, if closed or at refreshments) the Membership, Keceipt or Due Card and the Visitation Card, which shall be referred to the Secretary of the Lodge (before an Examination Committee is appointed) who shall compare same with the Grand Lodge of Michigan List of Masonic Regular Lodges as Issued and obtained from Grand Secretary, Lou B. WINSOB, P. G. M., Grand Baplds, after which both cards shall be presented to the Worshipful Master (with the Secretary's report noted in space prepared on the Visitation Card) as to the Lodge being a regular Lodge and in fraternal relation with Michigan Grand Lodge, if such be the case, after which the Examining Committee may be appointed by the Worshipful Master and the Visiting Brother
1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—MICHIGAN.
'
257
examined and admitted, if that be the wish of the Lodge, upon recommendation of the Committee who shall also sign the Visitation Card In space provided. Further, for the protection of each Lodge, I order that no person desiring to visit a Lodge of the Grand Lodge F. & A. M. of Michigan be admitted or examined, who is unable to present his Membership, Receipt or Due Card at the time of his request to visit the Lodge, and further that no Member of a Lodge introducing or vouching for a visiting Brother shall escort him into the Lodge Room unannounced or without the consent of the Worshipful Master and the Lodge. All visiting Master Masons shall enter a Lodge Room through the Ante-Room, tiled door, and be properly announced by the Tiler of the Lodge to the proper Lodge Officers.
The Grand Secretary's report, as usual, is replete with matters of detail; however, his preface is rather interesting as he refers to this report being his twenty-fifth and then calls attention to the fact that but ten Grand Secretaries are now alive who were serving at the time he was first elected. We take pleasure in quoting the following from the address of Brother JOHN H . MARTIN, Grand Master of- Canada, in the Province
of Ontario: There was a time, I believe, In the history of my country, when we were a bit suspicious of certain designs winch some of our people felt that you had upon our country. I suppose that we were a bit supersensitive, believing that some night, or some morning, we would wake up and find that we had been taken over, by peaceful methods or otherwise, but I think, Brethren, that day has long passed; and today I know that it Is the desire of my countrymen, as 1 believe it is the desire of your countrymen, that the ties that bind, those ties of sentiment, ties of brotherly love and friendship, that we should be drawn closer and closer together. As the days go on there are many Iniluences a t work to draw us closer together. Travel is bringing us closer together, and we are welcoming yom' citizens to our country. We have built attractive roads and we are glad to make and to establish closer relations with you; and that. Brethren, is as it should be—:back and forth from one country to the other. We are coming to know each other better. That, Brethren, has always been my ideal of the kind of relations that should exist between these two countries. In fact, may I say that I have also even gone further than this, in a more practical way, by taking for my wife a fair daughter of Uncle Sam (Applause). That, Brethren, happened about twenty years ago, and I have never had cause to regret it; on the contrary I consider it was the best move I ever made in my whole life. And, so far as I am aware, I still enjoy the confidence of my wife; and I hope to enjoy it down through the years. And I heard today of several of your Brethren who also took Canadian wives. That is what I call reciprocity (Laughter). But, Brethren, of all the Influences at work to draw these two countries closer together in the ties of friendship there is none so great as the great Masonic Order (Applause). With our six hundred Lodges, or there-about, and with your great array of Lodges visiting back and forth, traveling back and forth, what a great instrument for good this great Fraternity is in working towards that end. Brother WILLIAM H . GALLAGHER prepared the usual report of
the Committee on Obituaries, and we take pleasure in quoting the following: The birth of a man into Masonry differs essentially from that of an Infant into the physical world. Both are exceedingly interesting events. Fi-esh
258
CORRESPONDENCE—MICHIGAN.
February,
from the hand of GOD, through the gateway of birth, comes a human soul, semi-conscious only of insistent desires, never for a brief moment dreaming of the vast stretch of possibilities witliin and without. Born into the world with a "mother and one other woman" present. Fresh from the profane world, realizing, so to speak, in only a subconscious degree, the mysteries into which he is being ushered comes the candidate in Masonry. He does not come to birth alone. He is attended by interested spectators, participants and witnesses. Publicly he is initiated. There may be scores or even hundreds present. Brothers will be able to sayin years to come: " I was present in Lodge when you were brought to light. I saw wonderment written on your face, and an expression of mental perple.iiity as though you would ask: what is it all about." Years of attendance at regular and special communications; years, perhaps, of enquiry and private investigation have not wholly dispelled your sense of wonder at the profundity and beauty of the Masonic system, but there are no longer present evidences of perplexity. You know now something of the history, the philosophy, the symbolism and underlying prinr.inles of the instit\itiGn and in your kno^vlcdgc you find happiness, help, and peace. The companionship which began at your Masonic birth continued during your whole Masonic career. On every hand, you found Brothers. You are one of thousands. Out of these associations have grown friendships. If you are a normal Mason, you love to meet your Brethren in the Lodge Room, and, becoming endeared through years of close contact, you feel that, at your death, there will be a generous outpouring of Brethren who will assemble in the character of Masons to offer up before the world, to your memory, a tribute of affection, testifying thus to the sincerity of their esteem for you. B r o t h e r W I L L I A M H . G A L L A G H E R , G r a n d Chaplain, p r e p a r e d t h e u s u a l R e p o r t on Correspondence, b e i n g his fifth review. F r o m his preface we t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following few w o r d s : The reception of my reports by Brother Correspondents convinces me of their good judgment and of the wisdom of the Grand Lodge in appointing me. If this be conceit, make the most of it! Very many complimentary words have been written of my work. Nor has there been any lack of courteous criricisms, of real, or supposed, defects. My hearty thanks are due these Brethren for both their commendation and their criticism. Five years of experience in writing these reviews have, perhaps, entitled me to the privilege of making a few suggestions in the form, if you please, of a foreword. At any rate, I shall make the venture. First of all, I desire to say that it would materially assist all the correspondents of the Grand Lodges of the United States in preparing a "Statistical Table of Grand Lodges," if Foreign Jurisdictions were to make a summary of those who have been raised, affiliated, restored, dimitted, suspended or expelled ; of those who have died during the year, together with the present membership, and the number of active Lodges. Complete statistics can be obtained in no other, or better, way. I have been unable to make any entries against England and Scotland. Other Proceedings, which have not yet come to hand, will in part, be deficient in. these respects. I am hoping that the Grand Secretaries of all the Grand .Jurisdictions of the world will read these words and govern themselves accordingly. A word to the wise is sufficient. T h e writer is s o m e w h a t a m u s e d a t his reference t o statistics from foreign jurisdictions, as in t h e p r e p a r a t i o n of t h e statistical tables a t t h e close of t h i s report we k n o w j u s t w h a t t h i s r e m a r k m e a n s . In order t o o b t a i n certain e s t i m a t e s a l e n g t h y correspondence is es-
1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—MINNESOTA.
259
tablished and the letters are followed up one after another and then at the windup only a part of the data desired can be obtained. This same^condition will soon exist in our own country because of the introduction of plural and dual membership in a number of jurisdictions. In this splendid review of other Proceedings we are favored with a report covering our 1928 Proceedings. Brother GALLAGHER was very kind to us and covered absolutely every matter of importance which came before our Grand Lodge at that Communication. We rather believe he omitted the remarks of the writer concerning his retirement, judging from his reference to this subject. If space would permit it would be interesting to quote a portion of his review concerning other Grand Jurisdictions; however, we feel that in justice to others we must refrain from further comment, P. HOMER NEWTON, M . - . W . ' . Grand Master, Pontiac.
Lou B. WiNSOR, R.-. W.'. Grand Secretary, Grand Rapids, WILLIAM H , GALLAGHER, Correspondent, Allegan.
Next Annual, Pontiac, May 28, 1929.
MINNESOTA—1928. Lodges, 390; members, 61,496; net gain, 754. St. Paul, January 18, 1928.
WILLIAM R . SMITH, M . - . W . - . G r a n d
Master. Brother MONTREVILLE J. BROWN, our Grand Representative, was
present. Preliminary to the regular order of business the Grand Lodge received six very distinguished visitors from their neighboring jurisdiction, Wisconsin, headed by their M.". W.'. Brother HERBERT W . DIXON, Grand Master. The pleasure of introducing these distinguished Craftsmen to the Grand Lodge was accorded Past Grand Master WILLIAM A. MCGONAGLE, of Duluth.
The writer had the
pleasure of a personal visit with Brother MCGONAGLE last summer while in his city and we therefore feel confident that he performed this duty in a dignified and impressive manner. The Grand Master had but little to say in submitting his annual address; however, we quote the following few words: A year ago I entered upon the duties of my ofHce after taking an oath of humility and faith, and love of truth. I am here today, animated with the same spirit, to render an account of my stewardship.
Under "Necrology" he pays a fitting tribute to the memory of their Past Grand Master, AMBROSE D . COUNTRYMAN, who passed to his reward on February 23, 1927. He also referred to the death of Past Grand Master GIDEON S . IVES, which occurred in St. Paul on December 20, 1927.
260
CORHESPONDENCE—MlSSISaiPPI.
February,
U n d e r " D e c i s i o n s " we n o t e t h e G r a n d M a s t e r w a s " p e s t e r e d " w i t h t h e c u s t o m a r y physical qualification question, a m o n g which wasone concerning t h e legal r i g h t of o n e t o petition a lodge w h o was m i n u s his r i g h t a r m ; a n o t h e r h a d lost a t h u m b . Of course these questions were a n s w e r e d in t h e n e g a t i v e . W e t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following from his conclusion: The candle of my year as Grand Master flickers and dies. Together we have swung once more around the great circle, to find ourselves at a new starting point. 1 have been deeply appreciative of the great honor you bestowed in electing me to the highest offlce in t h e gift of the Fraternity. I n the discharge of duties I have endeavored to repay your kindness to the best of my ability, with a full measure of helpful service. I assure you the mistakes that have occurred have been through lack of conception, not of design. Our M i n n e s o t a b r e t h r e n seem t o h a v e t h e right idea concerning necessary f u n d s for carrying on t h e work of t h e i r Masonic H o m e a s we observe t h a t a n assessment of $12.50 w a s levied. B r o t h e r E D M U N D A . M O N T G O M E R Y p r e p a r e d t h e R e p o r t on Correspondence, a n d we a r e again u n d e r obligations for a splendid review of t h e Proceedings of o u r G r a n d L o d g e a s shown in o u r 1927 j o u r n a l . While we a r e n o t disposed t o p l a y t h e m u t u a l a d m i r a t i o n society a c t , y e t w e c a n n o t refrain from q u o t i n g t h e following, h a v i n g reference t o t h e writer of t h i s r e p o r t : Minnesota for 1926 was given a very pleasing review. Extracts were quoted from Grand Maotcr FSENCH'S address and from the oration of Bfo. Lxjcias H. BuOBEE. Noting that Bro. W. L. STOCKWELD, of North Dakota, spoke In the Grand Lodge in behalf of the Masonic Service Association of the United States, Bro. WILSON emphatically disapproves of such a "carpetbagging proposition in Freemasonry" and believed that Grand Masters should refuse to allow talks in their Grand Lodges In behalf of outside organizations, and that Grand Lodges should not extend recognition or lend support to any of the numerous orders, organizations or societies predicating their membership on Freemasonry. SAM A . EHICKSON, M . - . W . \ G r a n d M a s t e r , Crookston. J O H N F I S H E L , R.-. W . ' . G r a n d Secretary, S t . P a u l . EDMUND A. MONTGOMERY, Correspondent,
Minneapolis.
N e x t A n n u a l , St. P a u l , " J a n u a r y 16, 1929.
MISSISSIPPI —1928. Lodges, 3 8 7 ; m e m b e r s , 36,554; n e t gain, 152. J a c k s o n , F e b r u a r y 14, 1928.
JAMES H E N R Y JOHNSON,
M..W.-.
Grand Master. Brother ROBERT W . HINTON, J R . , our Grand Representative, w a s present. T h e G r a n d Master, in p r e s e n t i n g his address, a m o n g other t h i n g s h a d t h e following t o s a y : I t has been my object to try to perform my work in such manner that it would redound t o the credit of this Grand Lodge. This has been a year full
1928-20.
CORRESPONDENCE—MISSISSIPPI.
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of events, responsibilities, and activities. I have not been able to carry into execution all the plans outlined by me, one of which was a visitation of every Lodge in the State during my official administration. You brethren know that Masonic Relief work has taken a large portion of my time.. Yet I have found opportunity to visit thirty or forty Lodges. The majority of these visits were made at Masonic gatherings in central points where I was able to reach a large number of the brethren from various Lodges.
He calls attention to the important subject of burial places for their Past Grand Masters. This subject had been considered by a committee and their report showed that few of these places have any markers indicating the character of service rendered by these brethren. He urges the Grand Lodge to give this important subject further consideration. We note from his report on local visitations that he attended his own lodge, also the lodge in which he was made a Mason, and the lodge in which his father was a member; It appears he made other visits, but because of "lack of space" he refrained from listing them. Under the head of "Subordinate Lodges" he had the following to say: In my opinion we have too many small subordinate lodges which are not functioning, and I would like to see the consolidation of these lodges on a plan similar to that used in consolidating rural schools. With good roads and automobiles one lodge in a district could be better supported, and could function better than to have so many small lodges. I am more convinced of this after reading the auditor's report, which shows nineteen lodges not conferring a single degree during the past year, and twentythree lodges not conferring over two degrees each I believe Masonry would be better conserved under the above plan, and recommend that this be brought to the attention of the Grand Lecturer and the District Deputy Grand Lecturers for their consideration, i
The writer absolutely disagrees with the views of the Grand Master on this subject, as we are convinced in our own mind that pure Masonry today is practiced and understood better in the smaller lodges than in the larger ones; further than that, the writer believes that the influence of Masonry in any given community is of greater value in the small lodges than in the large ones. The small lodges limit their candidates to the work of Ancient Craft Masonry and rendering relief wherever needed among its members, while in the larger lodges the disposition is to build up a system of social affairs, including recreation rooms and expensive banquets or dinners. Under the head of "Scottish R i t e " he reports having attended a dinner in honor of one of the distinguished members of that organization. We find nothing in this portion of his report having any connection with Ancient Craft Masonry, and therefore wonder why it was made a part of his address. He refers to the action of their Grand Lodge in resuming fraternal relations with the Grand Lodge of New Jersey, and reports having met the Grand Master of that jurisdiction during the year and through this means the final act in restoring relations was carried out.
262
CORRESPONDENCE—MISSISSIPPI.
February,
A proposition had been submitted looking toward a final location for the office of Grand Secretary, and after the subject had been given careful thought on the part of the Special Committee, it was deemed best to allow the office to remain at Meridian. They were honored at this Communication with the presence of M,-. W.-. HOWARD R . CRUSE, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of New Jersey. Brother CRUSE addressed the Grand Lodge, and from
his remarks we take pleasure in quoting the following: CICERO, a great Roman orator, said something two thousand years ago which has come down across the sands of time. He says there is no such thing as happiness or contentment In this world without friendship. And PLATO expressed the same idea when he refers to the cement of friendly feeling, and Dr. ELLIS said that friendship lies upon the heart like a warm fire upon the heartli, and this Grand Lodge has had two ambassadors, two guarantors of friendship between our Grand Jurisdictions, which is Most Worshipful EDW.'.P.I; PATJCETTE, Tast Grand Master and Grand Secretary, who represents the Jurisdiction of New Jersey In the Grand Lodge, and the other is myself. I consider it a high honor and distinction to represent the Grand Lodge of Mississippi In the Jurisdiction of New Jersey. (Applause.)
* * * * * * PATJL stood on Mars HiU and said to the Athenians that we were all made of his blood, of the blood of GOD, that was an announcement not of an ideal, but of a fact, and that men desire—crave for higher things at all times, but come what may they cannot change the laws of nature, or man cannot change GOD'S laws, and it is in the light of that truth that teachings of the world have been found. I t is just- another way of announcing th6 di>ctriiie of tlie urullierhoud of man, of all human beings, and we are just one of-those agencies. Free-Masonry has been standing for brotherhood and afTection, and we have been spreading that light among men. Our fraternity is recognized and distinguished by that basis, and we stand on t h a t great common stamping-ground, the general welfare of society. Free Masonry is called a society of brothers joined together for the general uplift of all. The trowel is used by operative Masons to knit the units that go to unite the building into one common mass, to cement the parts together, and so it is to be used b y us, we brothers, to cement our brotherly love and affection. Foremost among the teachings of the fraternity with which we are identified is the unity of GOD, and one of the greatest landmarks of the institution is the brotherhood of man. We call each other brother. But I feel sometimes that we fail t o recognize—that we fall to recognize this brotherhood, the truth of the great teaching that we are In fact our brothers keeper, and with the recognition of that truth this old world of ours will have been, made a better, yes, a sweeter place in which to live. Yet, in this day of modern things, we often are told that such a thing is not practical. We are told this is an age of commercialism. Yes, it Is practical. It is exceedingly practical. I t is not only a means of the relieving of our burdens, it is not only a means of caring for our weaker brother, perhaps not so fortunate as we, but it is, when the soul is sad and the heart pines, a source of lasting comfort to us, a source of solace to know that because of us, because of this great ancient fraternity of ours, that the world is just a little better because we have lived. But it is not only that. Because of this we gain Inward strength. We ourselves are better. And it is in that spirit that I, as Grand Master of New Jersey, pray GOD that this re-established relationship between the Grand Jurisdictions may be a blessing to those of the fraternity that are to come. (Long applause.)
1928-29.
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One of the most interesting features in these Proceedings is t h e likeness of their Grand Tyler, Brother J. P I N K CAGLE in his uniform as a member of the United Confederate Veterans. He looks the typical southern gentleman and we have no doubt he did his full duty as a citizen of t h a t state. One of the remarkable features of this brother's life was the fact that he was the father of twelve children, ten of whom survived him. At the time of his death he was eighty-two years of age. We feel justified in quoting a portion of the sketch of this old brother's life, knowing full well it will be appreciated by our readers: Deceased was a wonderful man in many respects. Entering the Confederate army at the age of sixteen years as bugler, he spent the last two years in this bitter siege. He belonged to the 11th Mississippi, PEEBIN'S Regiment, FEBGUSON'S Brigade, and was always a loyal and devoted veteran. I n his private life he was always active in things that pertained to civic life, and unselfishly gave his time and means when called upon. His home life was one of devotion to his family. He held many positions of trust and honor in the communities in which he resided. He was a devoted member of the Louisville Baptist Church for sixty years. He served as Moderator of the Louisville Baptist Association, was Sunday School superintendent for a number of years, and trustee of the High School. He served more than one term as Mayor of Louisville, and several terms as Magistrate of District One, which place he held a t his death. He was a devoted Mason and held the responsible position of Grand Tyler of the Grand Lodge, Grand Sentinel of the Grand Chapter and of the Grand Council, besides holding office in the local Blue Lodge, Chapter and Council. He never failed to attend the Confederate Reunions, and was Adjutant-General of the State organization at his death, and recently stood for five or more hours as Guard at the unveiling of the staiue of his Chieftain, JEFI" DAVIS, a t Vicksburg. He was also Brigade Commander of t h e Sons of Veterans of the State. " P I N K " CAOLE, as he was familiarly known throughout our State, will be greatly missed in many ways for his unselfish devotion to humanity, and those things that pertain to real life, and the things that make up the happiness of the world. While his material assets were his least concern, he was a man who got more out of life than the average person enjoys. The Report on Correspondence, prepared by M.'. W.'. Brother HENRY C . YAWN, was up to the standard, and we find a splendid review of our 1927 Proceedings. THOMAS E . PEGRAM, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, Ripley. EDWARD L . FAUCETTE, R . ' . W.*. Grand Secretary, Meridian. HENRY C . YAWN, P.-. G.-. M.-., Correspondent, Lumberton. Next Annual, Gulf Port, February 13, 1929.
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MISSOURI —1927. Lodges, 662; members, 113,790; net gain, 578. Kansas City, October 25, 1927. JOKN PiCKARD, ?vl.". Vv"^.'. Grand Master. The Grand Master consumes less than three lines as a preface to his address, reminding one of the little boy who was called upon to recite in school and knew but a few lines which had been taught him at home, but was equal to the occasion, and said: "Here I stand stiff and stout Eating speck and sour-kraut." In view of the position occupied by Brother PICKARD, he being a
professor in the University, the writer had anticipated .the pleasure of reviewing a most scholarly and dignified preface, but alas! our expectations were not realized, and we were doomed to disappointmient. Referring to the subject of Grand Lodge Library and Museum, the Grand Master had the following to say: In the matter of a Grand Lodge Library and Museum, Missouri Is at least two generations behind. One year ago the Grand Secretary's offlce contained a tuli set of t h e Ivlissouri Froueeuiuga, a, guuuly nunibei- of extra nnnifis nf some of these volumes, many copies of the Proceedings of other Grand Jurisdictions, and also some three hundred volumes on subjects more or less closely connected with Freemasonry, which had been assembled in the days of Grand Secretary GOULEY. Your committee on Library decided that for the present all books and museum specimens should be kept in the office' and under the control of the Grand Secretary. Though funds for this purpose were almost entirely lacking, some standard bookshelves were installed and two exhibit cases were provided. A small but very carefully selected working library of standard modern books treating of the various fields of Masonic Interest has been procured and placed on the shelves. Objects of Masonic Interest owned by the Grand Lodge are now being exhibited In the cases. In his journeylngs over the state your Grand Master has emphasized the need of a Grand Lodge Library and has urged that no pains be spared In securing books for this library and specimens for this museum.
We sincerely hope the recommendation of the Grand Master will bear fruit and that soon the work of building up such a library and museum will be established. We personally know that practically all of the original records of the Grand Lodge of Missouri were destroyed and this appealed very strongly to the Grand Lodge of Kansas as there were, among the material destroyed, valuable papers having reference to the early history of Masonry in this jurisdiction. One would imagine from the seventeen pages of decisions reported by the Grand Master t h a t his work was largely confined to this particular department. A hasty review of the questions submitted shows
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conclusively that many of the Masters of the lodges in Missouri, like those in other jurisdictions, resort to the line of least resistance in obtaining information, and, therefore, appealed to the Grand Master by letter rather than refer to their Grand Lodge Laws. Under the head of "Masonic Home" we take pleasure in quoting the following: Every now and then it happens that some Lodge which has been for years paying its quota for the support of the Home has for the first time, perhaps, a candidate for admission to the Home. The application blanks are filled out in due form and sent in. "Word is sometimes received that the application has been rejected and occasionally hard feeling is engendered in t h e Lodge making the application against the Home Board. The fact is, however, that the law does not permit the Home to receive those of unsound mind, those afflicted with cancer, those having tuberculosis or other contagious diseases. Therefore the Board must reject such applicants. But shall the Masons of Missouri stop, do nothing further after t h a t rejection? These afflicted ones are Freemasons and are oiir brethren. If the Home cannot receive them, then we must care for them in some other way. I know a fine city Lodge that keeps one brother with a car busy all the time, calling upon the brethren who are sick, looking after those who are In distress, keeping a watchful eye to see to it that no one of its members suflers. This Lodge has spent over $1,200 in caring for one member. There is no ostentation or display. I t is simply what brotherly love and relief mean to t h a t Lodge. I know a fine country Lodge that lays aside five dollars from every initiation fee in a fund to be used for charity alone. This Lodge is now spending from twenty to forty dollars a month in caring for a brother. I t is simply what brotherly love and relief mean to that Lodge. I know a fine, small Lodge where pocketbooks are lean but hearts are large. In that Lodge there Is a personal neighborly ministry in caring for the sick and the afiEllcted. That is what brotherly love and relief mean to t h a t Lodge. There are in this grand commonwealth of ours many Lodges like unto these. Lodges where brotherly love and relief are not mere idle words. Unfortunately, however, there are Lodges whose treasuries are empty when the call for relief comes. Sometimes the Lodge is unable to meet the demand. There have been cases where brethren have suffered because reUef did not come.
Under the head of " Committee'on Charity" the Grand Master reported as follows: The Grand Lodge has a Committee on Charity which has functioned in this way. At the annual communication of the Grand Lodge this committee has considered the applications for charity which have been made, has recommended certain appropriations for relief, and the Grand Lodge has voted the appropriations asked for. From one annual communication of the Grand Lodge to the next, no relief has been granted. There has been no emergency fund. When a brother is threatened with pneumonia in January it is not very comforting to be told that perhaps when the Grand Lodge iheets In the following October, relief may be granted. If an emergency operation for appendicitis is needed in M a r c h t h e patient cannot well wait till the following autumn. Therefore I recommend that the sum of three thousand ($3,000.00) dollars be placed a t the disposal of the Committee on Charity to be drawn upon If and asrnucti as needed during the coming year.
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Referring to their late Grand Secretary, M.'. W.'. Brother FRANK R. JESSE, the Grand Master had the following to say: This entire Grand Lodge today mourns the death of our well beloved Grand Secretary. M.-. W.-. Brother FRANK B . JESSE has gone to the Higher Lodge. He was honest, he was honorable, be was faithful nr\i^ true, Tn those last days when he was suffering more than any of us knew his one desire was to complete his work on the returns of the lodges before he would go t o the hospital for an examination. He was a brave man. Even when he knew he had a t best only a few short months to live, Ills great desire was to return to his office and complete his work. His last words were " I am not afraid to die." Peace be to his ashes. In closing his address the Grand Master presented the following: Now, my Brothers, as I bring this report to a close, I wish to make a confession. I am, as you know, by education and training, an archaeologist, a man whose deepest interest lies in the remote past. In the monuments lef i; behind by the men of former times. There was imminent danger ihat I should become so much Interested in the dead past that I should grow out of touch with the living present. Fortunately for me some seventeen years ago I was accepted as a Freemason. From that day to this I have been going up and down this grand old commonwealth meeting and associating with that wonderful body of men who compose the great army of Missouri Freemasonry. Thus I have been brought into close contact with the men of my own state and of my own time. You, my brethren, have heaped honors upon me. As I think of the hundreds and hundreds of friends I have made during these years, I thank GOD for what Masonry has done for me. In performing the duties of the high ofnce to which you elevated lue ouu year ago I iiavo faiLuiuil^ tried to serve you well. The Committee on Grand Master's address paid a high compliment to their Grand Master in the following words: We congratulate the Craft on the wise and eiflclent administration of the year now drawing t o a close. In order that he might give himself without reserve to the duties of his high office, our Grand Master took a long vacation from his chosen work in our State University, He has been instant In season and out of season In fruitful labor for the Fraternity—laying more corner-stones, visiting more Lodges and attending more Masonic functions of various kinds than any of Ilia predecessor.s. Among the Masonic edifices he has dedicated is the Temple In which we meet today. The same Committee, referring to the question of conferring the first degree as an act of courtesy to another Grand Lodge, had the following to say: We approve his recommendation that Missouri shall decline to confer the First Degree as a courtesy to Foreign Grand Lodges. Of course this implies that we will not ask that courtesy from others. The Committee on Obituaries had the following to say concerning the death of Past Grand Masters WILSON, WOODS and DOCKERY, and FRANK R . JESSE, Grand Secretary: The first t o go was DAVID M . WILSON, Past Grand Master, Past Grand High Priest and Past Grand Master of the Grand Council, At the meeting
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of the Past Grand Masters Association, one year ago, he read that noble tribute to Past Grand Master A. S. HOUSTON, which appears on pages 174-178 in the Proceedings of 1926. Before daylight the next morning he was at rest. Governor A. M. DOCKERY, our Senior Past Grand Master and Senior Past Grand High Priest, was a member of this Grand Lodge sixty years ago. He was probably more widely known and honored than any other member of this body, in the history of this Grand Lodge. Though in his eighty-second year, we did not think the end was near, but on December 26, 1926, he also passed away. Who, that was here a year ago, can forget the impression made by the prayer of Dr. C. C. WOODS at our opening. Made a Freemason flfty-nlne years ago, he served the Craft as Grand Master, Grand High Priest, Grand Prelate, Grand Chaplain of the Grand Council, and General Grand Chaplain of the General Grand Chapter of Eoyal Arch Masons. For flfty-flve years he served his church as pastor, presiding elder, college president and editor of a church paper. May 12, 1926, he also feel asleep. Since GEORGE FRANK GOULEY'S tragic death In the Southern Hotel flre in April, 1877, three Past Grand Masters have served this Grand Lodge a s Grand Secretaries, though the last, the youngest, and the one whose term of service was the shortest, FRANK RUSSELL JESSE, ranked well with any of his predecessors In the character of his work, as the servant of this Grand Lodge; and we looked for many years of efficient service in that responsible office, b u t August 29, 1927, he ceased at once to work and live. A resolution was presented proposing an amendment to their lawmaking it necessary t h a t a petitioner for the degrees must accompany his petition with a certificate from a reputable physician, certifying that he is free of cancer, tuberculosis and syphilis. The writer feels, that a proposition of this kind is tainted too much with the more modern insurance organizations and is no part of Freemasonry. From the report of the Special Committee on Recognition of Foreign Grand Lodges we take pleasure in quoting the formula in t h e matter of extending recognition to other Grand Lodges, knowing it will be interesting to our readers, although it practically covers thesame requirements as our own: First: That such Grand Body shall have been formed lawfully by three, or more regularly constituted lodges, or else It shall have been legalized by Charter from the Grand Lodge A. F . & A. M. of the State of Missouri, or front some other Grand Lodge which enjoys fraternal relations with the Grand! Lodge A. F . & A. M. of the State of Missouri. Second: That such Grand Body shall be a responsible, independent, selfgoverning organization, with sole, undisputed and exclusive authority over the symbolic lodges conferring the first three degrees of Freemasonry in i t s jurisdiction, and shall not In any sense whatever be subject to or divide such authority with a Supreme Council or other power claiming ritualistic or other supervision or control over the symbolic degrees. Third: That the membership of the symbolic lodges of such Grand Body shall be composed of men exclusively. Fourth: That such Grand Bodies shall have no Masonic relations of any kind with mixed lodges or bodies which admit women into their fellowship. Fifth: That every candidate initiated under said Jurisdiction shall have and express an unfaltering belief in a Supreme Being, as the Father of all Mankind, the G. A. O. T. XJ., and shall also have and express a belief in t h e Immortality of the Soul.
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Sixth: That such Grand Body, and, its subordinate lodges shall adhere in principle to the ancient landmarks, customs and usages of the Craft as set forth in the constitution adopted by the Grand Lodge of England in 1723, except in so far as the same have been modified since said date by the United Grand Lodge of England, or by this Grand Body. Seventh: Such Grand Body shall require its initiates to be obligated on the Book of the Saerod Law. E y this is meant the revelation from boyonu, which la binding on the conscience of that particular individual, who is being initiated a t the time. Eighth: Such Grand Body shall prohibit the discussion within the LODGE ROOM of any and all religious, sectarian, controversial and poUtical subjects. Ninth: Such Grand Body and all of its subordinate lodges shall when at work, always exhibit or have In the lodge room, t h e Three Great Lights of Freemasonry, t h e chief among which Is the Sacred Book of the Divine Law. We note from the report of the Masonic Temple Association that the cost of their new building was $3,250,000.00, all of which has been fully paid. The Report on Correspondence was prepared by Brother ARTHUR MATHER, and we are favored with a splendid review of our 1927 Proceedings. Under the head of "Foreign Correspondence" he had the following to say concerning the writer: The Beport on Foreign Correspondence is again written by that veteran of t h e ' ' Bound Table'' ALBEHT K . WILSON and is a valuable document. Brother WILSON occupies a place " a l l lus o w n " and speaks with the authority of acciiTmila.tfid vAa,r« of observ^itioii End wisdom. No one can road this report without distinct proflt, and we wish that we had adequate space to excerpt copiously. Iviissouri receives kinaiy consideration in more than four pages in which our Annual Communication of 1925 is considered with Fraternal courtesy. ANTHONY F . ITTNER, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, St. Louis. ARTHUR MATHER, R . ' . W . ' . Grand Secretary and Correspondent, St. Louis. Next Annual, St. Louis, September 25, 1928.
MONTANA—1927. Lodges, 134; members, 20,469; net gain, 98. Helena, August 17, 1927. JAMBS M . CHARTERIS, M.-. W.-. Grand Master. We are sorry to note the absence of our Grand Representative. The address of welcome on this occasion was extended through W.'. Brother JOHN E . ERICKSON, Governor of t h a t commonwealth, and we are pleased to quote the following from his remarks: In the pioneer days, when lawlessness and crime were rampant, when neither person nor property were safe from the ravages of the thief and the thug. Masons and Masonry exerted a silent b u t powerful influence and did heroic work in bringing law and order and making Montana a fit and decent place for men to live in. And so, in the years that followed during Montana's
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early years, its years of troubles and tribulations, Masonry always and consistently was found on the side of all good government and civic righteousness. So it has always been with Masonry, not only in Montana, but everywhere and at all times. • • • The fundamental principle of Masonry is service to humanity, and this philosophy of service is as old as civilization Itself. Masonry is an ideal, a silent spiritual fOrce which has asserted Itself in humanity's struggle for higher and better things. And so it has always been. Civilizations have come and gone; nations have risen, flourished and passed away; kings and princes and potentates and the mighty have strutted their feet upon the world's stage and passed Into oblivion. But this thing which we call Masonry has grown more powerful throughout the centui'ies until it has become one of the great dynamic forces in the world's progress. The beauty of its philosophy thrills u s ; its history inspires us and Us achievements are a blessed heritage which we treasure. But we must not let the glories of the past blind us to the duties of today. The victories of the past should share In the problems of the present. Therfi Is still in the world much of ignorance, bigotry, intolerance and Injustice that may well be destroyed by the light of Masonry,. After all, the present and future of this Order will be just what you and I make it, and society will get out of It what we put into it. No generation has had a greater opportunity than ours to render service to humanity and to justify the existence of our Order. We are living in a wonderful age, in a wonderful time, in a time when man is enjoying more of the liberty, more of the fruits and more of the pleasures of life than In any other era of the world's history. But we are forcibly reminded that the last word In democracy has not yet been written; that there is much yet to be done; that on every hand problems, social and'economic, are present for solution; lawlessness and crime and disrespect, and even contempt for our institutions Is everywhere manifest in our own land; wars and revolutions, untold suffering and injustice among the nations of the world. I t seems that we are still a long ways from the Peace and Good Will to men of which the angels sang many centuries ago. There is still need for fiu'ther light in Masonry among the children of men everywhere, and it will be our pleasure as well as our duty to carry this light to those who sit in darkness. The silent unseen power of Masonry will continue to win Its victories and to bless mankind, for has it not been written that the things that are unseen are greater than the things that are seen?
The response was made by the Deputy Grand Master, R.-. W.'. Brother MARSHALL, and from his remarks we quote the following: There are two fundamental principles for the existence of Masonry, to pay reverence and homage to GOD, and to serve mankind, and I wish to assure you that It is in these two principles that the deliberations of this Grand Lodge will be conducted during the next two days.
The Grand Master presented an interesting address, and from the preface we take pleasure in quoting the following: We are meeting today under most auspicious circumstances. On all sides of us are to bo seen waving fields of prosperity. The cattle and sheep on Montana's thousand hills are fat and contented as never before; her mountains produce a constant flow of precious metals; her forests send forth a constant stream of lumber and building material, and her oil derricks bedeck her plains in countless numbers. • .
* * * * * * * We have not been called upon to lay any cornerstones, dedicate any new temples nor to institute or constitute any new lodges, yet Masonry has made progress. Her march has been onward and her aim has been to make men
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better and consequently happier. Little differences have been adjusted, grievances healed, discords harmonized, and brotherly love promoted, so that today we find the brethren of our Fraternity enjoying friendly brotherly intercourse, all laboring diligently with the one great aim in view, to elevate the moral standard of our Order. Moral excellence must be one of our watchwords at all times. Every Mason should feel and act as if the reputation of our Order- rested upon his shoulders. Sages of old contended that no sin was ever committed the consequence of which fell on the head of the sinner alone, and no man could do ill and his fellows not suffer. No man suffers alone for his folly, nor can any Mason compute the injury to the Order resulting from his immorality and misconduct. Masons should ever be mindful t h a t "birds of a feather flock together," and that if we admit men of the undesirable strata of life they in tmn will attract other men like them; and not only that, they will repel the good men whom someone else attracts.
Under "Miasonic H o m e " , among other things,, he had the foDowing to say: Our Masonic Home in Helena VaUey is flourishing beyond my ability to describe. To appreciate its home-Uke appearance, with its beautiful, well-kept lawn, its large sunny porches, its shade trees, its gardens of growing vegetables, its artesian well and the pumping plant, furnisliiug flre protection and water for the gardens, lawn and trees; its coops filled with growing chickens, laying hens and eggs galore, its large root houses ready to receive the approacliing harvest, its beautiful driveway and ornamental fence, the heating plant, provided by the foresight and efforts of M.". W .•. Brother MCALLISTEK, the hospital ward, providing comfort, fresh air and sunshine and life-giving vitality to the Rink, it? well-proportioned, ^veli-kept rocms, its large asoemuly ruum or iobby with its comfortable lounges and chairs, its spacious dining room, its Idtchen. basement ana frigid air plant loaded with the best the land affords; and last but not least, t h e Matron, Superintendent, maids and nurses furnishing the human link between us who give a little of our plenty to help soften the wintry winds for those of our sisters and brothers who are less fortunate than we are; you must see all of these things to appreciate them.
As a matter of interest to our readers we quote the following from the Grand Master's address, under the head of " Cement of Brotherly Love": One of my first visitations of the year was to Three Forks Lodge No. 73 at Three Forks, and while there I had the pleasure of visiting the cement plant at Trident. The cement business being entirely new to me, I natiu'ally became quite interested in the process of making it. My guide, W .•. Bro. BUEKETT, Master of the Lodge and chemist for the company, explained in detail the various processes through which the material had to pass before it was ready for the market. He told me that the quarry at Trident was the only place he knew of where all the ingredients to make a perfect cement were to be found in the one quarry. Usually the various ingredients have to be quarried in different places and assembled at a central plant, where they are blended and made into the finished product. At Trident they simply blast down the side of the mountain, load it with a steam shovel, grind and burn it, and it is ready for the market. Their main concern seems to be to keep it from being produced in too rich a state. Some one will no doubt ask, what has this to do with Masonry? Speculative Masonry uses cement in a symbolic manner only. We are admonished to spread the cement of brotherly love and affection as the operative Mason spreads the cement which hind's the building into one common mass. I thought
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->f the new Masonic Peace Memorial Temple being built in London by the Mother Grand Lodge of the World and how fitting it would be if some of this natural cement from Montana could be used in binding the common stones of Che walls of that building into one common mass, symbolizing as it were the common brotherhood of Masonry bound together by the cement of brotherly love. It was my intention to come here at this time and make such a suggestion, but on considering the matter and remembering that the cornerstone of this magnificent Temple was soon to be laid and hoping that our Montana cement might be used, we sent a thousand poimds of Montana cement from Trident to the Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of England in the hope that it would complete the joiu'ney in time for the laying of the cornerstone July 14th, 1927. A letter from the Grand Secretary of England, dated June 22, 1927, says the cement has reached its destination. Attached to this report is the file of correspondence with reference to this cement. I now come before you to ask for your approval of my action.
Likewise the resolution adopted by the Grand Lodge: Resolved, That this Grand Lodge assembled in its sixty-third regular Annual Communication, most heartily approve the action of the Grand Master in his thoughtful and gracious donation of cement to the United Grand Lodge of England for use in the construction of the Peace Memorial Temple in London, and fully concur in his exalted expression of brotherly love and high regard. In Testimony Whereof, we cause this resolution to be spread upon the minutes of this Annual Communication and a copy thereof transmitted to said United Grand Lodge, with the further expression of our sincere desire that the bond of union thus cemented between the Masons of Montana and of England as well as the great memorial building shall continue as long as civilization shall last.
The Grand Master recommended that lodges be permitted to group their candidates in conferring the several degrees, except the second section of the third degree. His recommendation was referred to a special committee whose report favored the recommendation; however, a substitute motion referred the subject to the Committee on Jurisprudence with instructions to submit an amendment to their laws favoring this method of conferring the degrees, except it could only be done on authority of the Grand Master through his special dispensation. Such an amendment was presented and adopted. This certainly makes it easy for the officers of the lodges in Montana and to the notion of the writer they need go only one step further to perfect this method of attempting to make Masons and that would be to eliminate the ceremony entirely and reduce the obligations to a minimum, and administer them only to the candidates on the cushioned seats of a reclining chair, or better still, they might be furnished with comfortable couches so they could take a nap between sentences. From the Grand Secretary's report we find that their Grand Lodge has purchased a fireproof safe and some other needed equipment. To the notion of the writer a fireproof safe proposition is all right so far as the local lodge is concerned, but in this day and age nothing less than an absolutely fireproof building should be used for housing the valuable records and books of a Grand Lodge.
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The Grand Lodge paused long enough to extend a welcome to the Past Grand Masters of Montana and from the response made by M.'. W/. Brother MOSES MORRIS, we take pleasure in quoting the
following: When you look at these young men, and consider the duties they performed during tUese years, as every one tries and as you tried, they look none the worse for wear. And now, at this age, after so many years, they are eager to put on the harness again. Of course they have the same zeal, the same interest, the same love for the fraternity: and these high privates in the rear ranks will do whatever is useful and good for the fraternity. Of the sixty-one Grand Masters of Montana, tiilrty-seven have passed beyond, twenty-four are still living, and twenty-one of them are present at this time. * * * Masonry has left no grieved ones on the field, but has cemented wherever dissensions may have been; and had it not been for Masonry many things would be different from what they are now. May the time come when the whole world will be linked together by friendship, morality and brotherly love, when there will be no hatred, no bigotry, no dissensions, nothing but brotherly love. (Applause.) The acting Grand Chaplain, Bishop HERBERT H . H . F O X , de-
livered an address, the subject of which was " T h e Builders" and we take pleasure in quoting the following: • The modern Order of Masons which we represent here today has taken the standards of our ancient craft brethren and made them symbolic of human life and character. Our Speculative and Symbolic Order has taken the temples built in glory and beauty by our ancient bretliren and has said to them "These temples that you have made are glorious and beautiful, but the I'eal temples cf GOD are human hearts. ' V e are Ihe i/eii±pie ui the living GOD, and the Spirit of GOD dwelleth in you'." I t is in the building of that temnle that modern Masonry labors. I t is significant that while in all the degrees of Blue Lodge Masonry the attention of the initiate Is directed to tools and part's of buildings, drawing from them helpful moral lessons, the first degree has more to say about GOD and G O D S word and the Cardinal and other Virtues together with the tenets of Masonry wliich are the foundations of human character than any of the other degrees. It would seem as though in this way a t the very tlu-eshold of the Masonic Edifice the mind of the Candidate Is turned to the real purpose of Masonry. Throughout the ages Humanity has been building. And what superb achievements we see before us. Sometimes in our pride we arrogate to ourselves the wonderful progress of our race. We point to the acquisitions of our times and without much thought lay the credit to the men of our day. No age has been so rich in invention and discovery as the one in which we are now liWng. In the life of any one who has passed the half century mark many of the most efficient servants of our race have been perfected. Our accomplishments have been stupendous. We have spanned the heavens and measured her immeasurable spaces. We have probed the heights of the air. We have sounded the depths of the sea. We have harnessed the rushing torrents so that their destructive forces have become our slaves, to heat our homes, to light our streets and to move our machinery. We have followed the ant burrowing in t h e earth, tunneling her mountains and laying bare her precious stones and metals. The stars of heaven and the depths of the earth and sea have revealed their secrets to man. The impossible has been made possible by the fearless spirit of adventure that has driven men into every region Ifnown and unknown, whether of thought or experience. And yeth—no masterpiece of human achievement can be claimed bj' any one age or by any one person. AVe cannot ignore or discard the acquisitions of human knowledge in the ages long gone by. For however imperfect that knowledge may have been.
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our present edifice is built upon foundations laid by our forefathers. They were the trail blazers. Their achievements were sometimes uncouth and rough. They were imperfect in many respects. The trails they blazed had twists and turns in them that future generations have had to straighten out. But without these rugged and adventurous excursions into the great unknown b y these hardy pioneers, the builders of our own generation would never have accomplished the things we are proud of. They hewed their way through the drift and tangle of the unexplored regions in thought, in science and in all material and spiritual tilings. We are entering into their labor. In philosophy they have delved into the recondite and the unknown. They have been fearless in asking the why of everything that human thought can conceive. In science they have faced the facts of nature and have asked her the meaning of everything. They have fathomed her secrets. By patient watching and observation they have found out the meaning of things as they are. They have taken the forces that inspired terror and awe In our superstitious ancestors and made them do our bidding. In spiritual things they have sought after and found GOD. In their social rela.tionsliips one with another they have built moral codes and conventions whose use has been to refine and purify, to make sightly and to sweeten the life of man. Goo's lilghest and best masterpiece. We are entering into their labors. The Report on Correspondence was prepared b y M.'. W.". Brother H. S. HEFNER, it being his nineteenth review, and our Grand Lodge is favored with a fraternal reference to our 1927 Proceedings. The writer is highly complimented in having a portion of the preface to his last report included in the review of our Proceedings. WILLIAM J. MARSHALL, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, Missoula. LUTHER T . HAUBERG, R . \ "W.-. Grand Secretary, Helena. H. S. HEFNER, P . \ G.". M . \ , Correspondent, Helena. Next Annual, Billings, August 15, 1928.
NEBRASKA —1928. Lodges, 293; members, 41,948; net gain, 362. Omaha, June 5, 1928. ALBERT R . DAVIS, M.-. W.-. Grand Master. Among the preliminaries we note that their Past Grand Master JOHN J. WEMPLE, now a resident of Ohio, and who for the first time in thirty-nine years has been permitted to attend his Grand Lodge, was extended words of welcome, to which he responded in a most appropriate manner, and from his splendid remarks we take pleasure in quoting the following: Thirty-nine years ago this month I had the distinguished honor of installing the officers of this Jurisdiction of this Grand Body. Since which time it has not been possible for me to be hero, but this year, with the extreme courtesy of your Grand Master I am privileged to be here. Many centuries ago a king was crossing the desert in his domain to another part of same, and the riders of the caravan had neglected one of the principal necessities of the caravan; they had neglected to have water skins enough and the water was exhausted; a cruel sun hung In the sky; the children were almost
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perishing for thirst and when the king went to the master of the caravan, and said, " W h a t shall we d o ? " he said, " W e must loosen the herd." The camels were loosened and boundied across the desert, the caravan following as best it could. In a comparatively short time they came to an oasis in which was a large spring of cleaf water, a bountiful supply. The children were bathed, the women were satisfied, the men, who had been cursing, were appeased with the water, the camels were filled, the water skins were reploniplied. Then the king obtained from his helpers a little leather tablet and wrote upon it these words; " As the hart panteth after the waterbrooks, so panteth my soul after Thee, oh G O D . " I do not know how many of us have the same infinite feeling of the Supreme as he, the king, but this I do know that from the heart of every true Mason goes out a feeling and a wondering for the infinite, and what is next to it, a feeling for his fellow man; and I think I can speak these words faithfully for every one who now stands around me, their hearts go out not only for the supreme, but for their fellow man. I t is with mingUng feeling of joy and sorrow that I am here today. As I glance down the lines I miss many who were not only my compeers in Masonic activities, but were my personal friends. They have gone; they have taken the long journey; but we have had t h e benefit of their adrice, we have had the benefit of their example, and I doubt myself whether there is a man present that is not a better man for his acquaintance with those that have gone before. "We should congratulate ourselves that we are here, and have the privilege of meeting again, but we know not how soon we may take the long journey. Those that have gone before us, we count dead, but they are not dead: they are not dead who live in the hearts of those whom they have loved. They live the life again and cast their shadows through the years through every life which grows each day more beautiful. Time declares their good, and forgets the rest, proving they are immortal.
say other t h a n announcing the Annual Communication, and having entered the exalted office of Grand Master fully conscious of his own limitations. Under the head of " G i f t s " we note t h a t ISABBLLB J. FERGUSON made a donation of about $9,000.00, one-half of which was to be given their Home at Plattsmouth, and the remaining one-half to the Eastern Star Home for Children at Fremont. He recommended t h a t the salary of their Grand Secretary be increased from $2,400.00 to $3,600.00. The recommendation was approved by the Grand Lodge. Immediately after the Grand Lodge called off, the brethren were taken to the Nebraska Masonic Home in automobiles where they had the pleasure of visiting the members and were given an opportunity of having a social time. V.-. W.-. GEORGE ALLEN BEECHER, Grand Chaplain, offered & tribute to V.-. W.'. CHARLES MUNSON SHEPARD, late Grand Chaplain of the Grand Lodge, and from his remarks we are pleased to quote the following: * * * I was reminded of the fact that there are times when the world of t h e material mind, the temporal world, the world on which we are living day by day comes in very close contact with the world beyond our vision. I t is especially so when we think of those we have loved and given back to the keeping of GOD. I t is not possible at all times in oiu" busy occupations.
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nor is it natural that we should think of our dead, of the person and the face and the voice and the deeds, but there are times, Brethren, when we want to take a close and a concentrated vision of that particular person whose life has entered into in some measure our life, and in whose hand our hand has been grasped. From time to time it is a great blessing and strength to us to pause in front of the picture and contemplate the things I have spoken of which •entered into the personal and the close bond of friendsliip and affection between ourselves and that particular person; and if we do that in honest endeavor and for honest reasons out of the conviction of the truth taught in our religious as well as our Masonic teachings that the soul is immortal, and that those who die in this body live, in the presence of GOD in the eternal spirit that he has given us and in which we were created by him. And so, although I feel so inadequate to do it, I respond ivith cheerfulness and a sense of gratitude to this request, to speak a word of one wo have all learned to love in his life time and to revere in his memory tonight, in our memory of him, our love for him, oiir great desire to carry on in the spirit in which he carried •on, and to do and to think the noble deeds and thoughts of his useful life. Brother WILLIAM D. REDMOND delivered the usual oration, and
from it we are pleased to quote the following: Volumes have been written by men who spent their lives in the study of ancient mysteries to show that Masonry had its beginning in the very dawn of history. But this can be of no vital or profitable use to us. The mere fact that an institution is old has little weight in the practical thought of the present day. Whatever may have been the status of Masom-y in the days of the Ptolomies, or the Greeks and Romans; whatever good purpose it may have served during the Dark Ages, when superstition and oppression reigned supreme throughout tlie world, to keep burning t h e flres of patriotism and t o keep alive a spirit of true fraternity among men; whatever value the Lodge may have had in the early days of our own country in fostering a spirit of fraternity and binding together by closer ties t h e Immortal patriots of the Kevolution, when GEORGE WASHINGTON was at the head of the American craft and BENJAMIN FKANKLIN was high up In Its councils; whatever may have been its history as the great stream of Masonry has flowed on through the ages, strengthening itself from a million sources and gathering about its altars the best men of all ages and all civilized lands; whatever may have been its past, t h e important question Is, " W h a t has Masonry t o offer now?" Is it a living, vital force in the year nineteen hundred twenty-eight, leaving its impress on the social structure of the race and playing a part in the destiny of nations? The more we delve Into ancient mysteries the more inclined we are to admit that no scholar however profoimd can say with any degree of deflulteness that at a certain time or on a certain date Masonry had its beginning. The truth is more nearly expressed in the paraphrase of a well-known poem: " O u t where the handclasp is a little stronger. Out where the smile lasts a little longer. That's where Masonry begins." " Out where the sun shines a little brighter. Where the snow that falls is a trifle whiter, Where the bonds of home are a wee bit tighter,— That's where Masom-y begins." While the beginning of symbolic Masonry is veiled In mystery, scholars generally agree that Its origin as an organization of builders dates far back into antiquity. "Civilization," says NEWTON, "could hardly begin until man had learned to fashion for himself a fixed habitation, and thus the earliest of all the
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human arts, and perhaps also the noblest, is the builder. Scholars who have followed back through the centuries the traces left by Masonry tell us that the unmistakable symbols of the Order have been unearthed from the ruins of practically every civilization yet discovered; that the temples of the ancients which have been buried for thousands of years under the shifting sands of the , deserts or the accumulated silt of the ages, when uncovered, add their convincing testimony that thoy wcrG buiided at a time when men recognized the precepts and practiced the principles of Masonry. Covering a long period of years Masonry was purely an operative art, and its members consisted entirely of operative Masons, who under a high sense of religious duty and zeal devoted their lives to the erection of magnificent temples and cathedrals to the glory and for the worship of the one true GOD. In this spirit the craft entered into the industrial activities of the ancient world, and imposing structures rose under the superior workmanship of the builders. They moved with pride across Europe, leaving behind them impressive monuments. But building of this nature did not satisfy the hunger of the human heart. Even in that remote period the workmen had visions of a lime when brotherhood shall be supreme, when the temple of humanity shall be erected in Wisdom, Strength and Beauty. They realized in the words of EDO.\B A. GUE.ST t h a t —
" Y o u may delve down to rock for your foundation piers. You may go with your steel to the sky; You may purchase the best of the thought of the years. And the finest of workmanship buy; You may line with the rarest of marble each wall. And with gold you may tint it, but then I t is only a building If it, after all. Isn't filled with the spirit of men. You may put up a structure of brick and of stone. Such as never was put up before; Place there the costliest woods that are g^o^vn, And carve every pillar and door; You may fill It with splendors of quarry and mine. With the glories of brush and of pen— But it's only a building if ever so fine. If it hasn't the spirit of men. For it isn 't the marble, nor is it the stone, ISTor is it the columns of steel, By which is the worth of an edittce known;— But it's something that's living and real." 91;
*
*
*
*
He
Masonry has won the praise of those who know of its service to mankind. In support of every worthy cause its influence has been felt, to every call for relief it has nobly responded. The ties t h a t bind the members into one great brotherhood are sacred and unbreakable. With the true Mason no recognition ever went unanswered; no fraternal grip ever felt an unresponsive one; n o sign of distress ever lacked the relieving assistance of a Brother. By t h e bedside of the sick, at the grave of the dead, in the home of the bereft, ihe never-failing tnim'stration has been given. How many heart-aches the fraternity has relieved, how' many discoiu-aged souls It has uplifted, how many tears it has dried, the world will never know. Despite opposition it has gone forward, gaining additional strength each year, silencing criticism by its deeds as well as by its principles and holding the position of the greatest fraternal order in the world.
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The Proceedings of last year listed their Grand Secretary, Brother LEWIS E . SMITH, as chairman of the Committee on Correspondence.
We note, however, that the one who prepared the Report signs the "Foreword" by means of an autograph signature which we are unable to decipher. Be that as it may the report is interesting and we are under obligations for a fraternal review of our 1927 Proceedings. Referring t o our Grand Lodge Building he mentions that it has just been completed. In this we wish to correct him as the building was finished and occupied more than eleven years ago. PRANK H . WOODLAND, M.-. W.". Grand Master, Omaha. L E W I S E . SMITH, R.-. W . \ Grand Secretary, Omaha.
Next Annual, Omaha, June 4, 1929.
NEW SOUTH WALES-1927. Lodges, 437; members, 64,585; net gain, 2,565. From the address of the Grand Master, M.-. W.'. JOHN GOUI.STON,
delivered at the Special Communication of June 29, 1926, we quote the following, not that we are in sympathy with any such procedure, but as a matter of information t o our own readers in support of the position taken by the writer that the waiving of any of the Landmarks leads to a condition like unto the bottomless pit: Since my announcement at our March Communication I hare granted permission for 61 limbless men t o be nominated into Freemasonry. In every case the Secretary was aslced to fill in a written appUcation on a form supplied by the Grand Secretarj, setting out the nature of the injury, with a covering letter from the Wor. Master describing the manner in which he proposed to carry out the ceremonial. In the great majority of cases very little alteration is required.
We regret to note that our Grand Representative was not present. The Report on Correspondence was prepared in a topical form which makes it impossible for the writer to either quote or comment as this would necessitate the reading of the entire report, which is not within the possibility of one occupying the position of the writer. J O H N GOULSTON, M.-. W.". Grand Master. (No address given.) DAVID CUNNINGHAM, R.-. W . ' . Grand Secretary, Sydney.
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NEVADA —1928. Lodges, 23; members, 2,954; net gain, 64. Reno,
June
14,
1928.
V.
M. HBNDER.SON,
M , - . W.-. Grand
Master. We are again obliged to report that our Grand Representative near the Grand Lodge of Nevada was not present at this Communication. We would appreciate the nomination of some worthy brother for this important office. Brother THOMAS F . MORAN, Judge of the Second Judicial Couri
of Nevada, extended a welcome to the members of the Grand Lodge, and from his remarks we are pleased to quote the following: Fratcrualism Is the chila of history, and was born Into the world to remain with us. The classics written by the great writers, contzuning great principles of t h e ever-living trutlis shall endure as long as language shall exist. And the fraternal organization tliat has for its foundation the square and compass will live for all time. Masonry makes one who understands its teachings more cheerful, more law abiding, more charitable and more GOD like in all walks of life. I t sends a thought of good-fellonslup tlirough the civic life of every community, in which it exists. I t upholds that which is right and condemns thai which is wrong. I t ;s the advocate of liberty and the destroyer of tyranny. I t is the lover of virtue and the destroyer of vice. I t believes in the advancement and progress of the human race. Tr. hfilioye? in the Fatherhood of GCE, and the SroLiieihood of Man. Truly thoiti is wuik in this world of ours for members of the Masonic fraternity. As citizens in the outer-world we should be active participants in every tiling t h a t has a tendency t o make the community better morally and socially. Remember that the organization of which wo are members Is judged by our conduct as citizens In the community in which we live. We should always endeavor to live u p to t h e golden rule. If we do this we shaU reflect credit on ourselves and honor upon our organization. A fraternal organization, such as ours, with such noble and sublime principles should always aim to establish in this country the type of citizenship worthy of our Great Kepublic. Intelligence, honesty and obedience to law are fostered and cherished by our fraternity. As members of this great fraternal organization we must not overlook the fact that we have great and important duties to perform as American citizens. We should encourage and cherish respect for American Institutions and laws. We should as citizens encourage the education of our young people, as well as the foreigners, who come to our shore's for the purpose of making this Republic their home. We should see to it t h a t illiteracy disappears from our country and t h a t the rising generation receives a t least a good public school education. Wo should at all times be supporters of our public school system. If we take a n Interest In these things we shall soon see in our Republic a race of people, the amalgamation of almost every nationality, prosperous, because they have been educated for efficient service, intelligent through the Influx of the racial mind into their mental reservoirs, and swelling the great mind stream as it flows into the eternal future with nobler thoughts, higher aspirations and finer ideals, we shall see a people whoso noble conception of liberty is untainted with license, unfettered by mental or physical bonds, vrith the pure flame of liberty blazing on every .'"amlly altar, and every man and woman a selfconstituted instructor, intent on transmitting the flre to future altars, brighter and purer than it shone upon theirs. We shall see a people who, through the
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influence of such training as the common or public school shall promote and maintain, have cast off the brute inheritance, ruled by the law of love. We shall see a people whose banner has' no crimson bar among its silken folds, but only the blue of loyalty, and the white of gent'e peace and whose implements of war have been fashioned into the utensils of paciftc pursuits. We shall see homes that are happy, righteous, fields that yield abundant harvests, shops whose skilled and intelligent workmen perform their tasks with such facility that they have ample time for recreation and culture. We shall see a people whose domestic felicity is heavenly and whose righteousness is uninfluenced by hope of reward or fear of punishment. And as a result we shall bo a great fraternal people fashioned in the image of the Prince of Peace, believing in the Fatherhood of GOD, and the Brotherhood of Man. From the preface to the Grand Master's address we note the following: May this Communication be fruitful of good, not only to our own jurisdiction but may it enhance ihe value of Freemasonry to all Masons whithersoever dispersed around the globe. May we profess only that which is good and may we always live in accordance with our professions. May our deliberations be carried on under the benignant bend of the All Seeing Eye and may they be completed under the strict approval of the Grand Artiflcer of the Universe. During the year the Grand Master visited every lodge in his jurisdiction, which required almost 2,500 miles by automobile. A very creditable showing and indicates that he was interested in his work. A strain of vanity appears in the address, under the head of "Honors Received", as the Grand Master lists his election to the Knight Commander of the Court of Honor of the Scottish Rite; life member of the Shrine at Pittsburg and San Francisco, and awarded the Honorary Legion of Honor by the DeMolay. We do not quite catch the connection in this portion of his address with the remainder of the report. From the oration delivered by W.-. ROBERT H . PARKER we take pleasure in quoting the following: No doubt some of you have held a prism of glass to the light, and have watched the changing colors m t h interest. SymboUoally, let me hold a prism before your eyes that we may view some of the Beauties of Masonry. • Scientists will toll you thai there are really no colors in this prism, that there only seem to be. In viewing Masonry through this prism today, we will have the advantage of knowing that the beauty is really there, and that we may be able to oring this beauty a little closer to your vision. Such is the study of Masonry. You can always see something new; each one sees something different, and, in a great measure, therein lies its attraction to the minds of its followers. As you watch these different colors come and go, some of them seem so beautiful that you desire to call the attention of others to them. Pausing a moment before doing so, wondering if they will see the same coloring that you do, it is a very strong temptation to take only the Beauties of Masonry and dwell upon them alone. Many speakers do so and it is a treat to hear them. Today let us look just a little longer—harder if you will—and try to see some of the things that go to make up the beauty of the underlying principles of our order. After a
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lifetime study of the symbols and origin of Masonry, who can say with certainty "whence it came or where?" I t is enough for us to know that these principles form a solid foundation upon which to build a righteous life. As one glances back along the record of years and tries to measure with the " t a p e l i n e " of his own little conception the vast Ocean of Masonic Tradition and Knowledge, it would seem a superhuman task to learn all that Masonry has to teach. Just a little more than one hundred years ago, history records that a man who had the audacity to claim that he belonged to a society calling themselves Freemasons was taken out and tortured, his right hand cut off, and his body flung on a dung heap as a warning to others not to become so vile and forsworn. Masonry of today does not have quite the same conditions as the Masonry of that day and age, but, with each succeeding generation new problems arise, and, although, we are not now called upon to sacrifice our lives in defense of our Masonic Faith, we should at least remember " One illustrious in Masonic history, who gave his life rather than betray his trust." With this beautiful character as an example, wc should be •willing to sacrifice a little of our time to the order, when so many of our brethren of ancient times made the supreme sacrifice for it. In passing there is just this criticism: Comparing our order with our country, both, while in process of organization called for great sacrifices, both in blood and lives, many giving all they had to the cause. Today the trend in respect to both institutions is to take the sacrifices of our forefathers a little too lightly. We are too prone to wear our Masonic pins, to tell the world we are Masons, and not perform enough Masonic work to justify our existence as Masons, nor as Masons, perform the duties we should as citizens. To keep the reputation of our fraternity as it should be kept, we, as Masons, should devote more of our time to our country a.nd our order, ever rernembering that tJii.^j (TOvArTiTnftr^t' Of o'-iTS'was founded b^"" IXi^iScns, en J.iascnic princii^lcs. We as Masons today should jealously prize the heritage left to us by these brethren. :(:
H:
H«
4:
:(:
*
Let US classify the different parts or rather types in Masonry: The first type I would say is the Masonic Scholar, who delves into the dim and dusty records of the past, bringing to us many interesting things and much useful knowledge. With his eyes ever fixed on the highest peaks, he seeks to learn of the future by the knowledge he has gained of the past from the footsteps of those who have gone before, bringing this knowledge to his brethren for them to use if they will. To this type we owe much, if for nothing more than his efforts to raise the eyes of his brethren from the ground over which they travel, teaching them the beauty in life and Masonry, elevating them above the material things, if only for a short time. The second type is the Ritualist. I t is he who insists on letter perfect work, and deems it his mission to keep intact the beautiful language of the degrees handed down to us by our forefathers, keeping us in the well defined trail they left for us. If it were not for this type, there would be no squares and angles in our work. We would soon take too many short cuts and the work would lose all proportion. The one particular danger that this type should avoid is this: They sometimes become so interested in seeing t h a t the degrees are letter perfect, that they lose sight of the beautiful underlying principles and what these degrees should teach. The third type, the Plodder, is one who wins to the top by hard work and constant attendance. This type usually carries the largest burden of routine work, which, as a rule, is not as interesting as the rest, but he keeps
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his brethren ever moving onward and upward. When the traveling is rough his strength and courage keep them going. The next type one might almost call the Conscientiovis Objector, ranging from the radical to the sturdy pioneer, who is always on duty to see t h a t the Landmarks of Masonry are kept Intact. To the radical, we also owe much, as in all cases when things are moving along quietly and pleasantly for a long time we become indifferent and take the wrong path for that reason. When this type gets started he creates quite a commotion, but, in the end, we will find when we return to normal that we have learned something and that conditions are improved. The last type I will mention has by far the largest majority. I t Is coiiiposed of the silent brothers who take their degrees and attend lodge just once in a while. Brethren, I would fear for the future of Masonry if I did not know that the majority of this type are doing Masonic work, and living Masonic lives, doing their duty as they see it, and seeking no credit for it. The usual Report on Correspondence was prepared by R.'. W.'. Brother FRANK D . KING, and includes a liberal review of our 1927 journal. Brother KING notes the retirement of the writer of this report as Grand Secretary of our Grand Lodge, and we take pleasure in quoting his words: Bro. WILSON'S criticism of our Nevada cornerstone ceremony suits Ye Scribe's sentiments exactly, but Grand Lodge thinketh otherwise. By a strange co-incidence the mail-man just handed us a recent copy of the Topeka Kansas State Journal showing a splendid picture of Bro. WILSON and announcing that he intends to retire at an early date to devote his time to the writing of a History of Kansas Masonry. We will miss him from the Bound Table, but, nevertheless, wish him many years of happiness and prosperity in the doing of a work that we know he will do very well, because he loves it so. We might add, however, that unless otherwise requested, the writer will continue as a member of the Round Table in all four of our Masonic Grand Bodies. CHARLES F . CUTTS, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, Reno. FRANK D . KING, R . ' . W.-. Grand Secretary and Correspondent, Reno. Next Annual, Reno, June 13, 1929.
NEW BRUNSWICK —1927. Lodges, 4 4 ; m e m b e r s , 6,014; n e t gain, 2 5 . Saint J o h n , A u g u s t 2 5 , 1927. J A M E S VROOM, M . ' . W . \ G r a n d Master. W e n o t e t h a t o u r G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e was n o t present. F r o m t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s address we quote t h e following: It has seemed to me that there is among us an increasing interest in the welfare of the Fraternity, and a deeper sense of our obUgation to carry on its work. At least I may say that, having been brought more closely in touch with what is going on, I have seen more of our Masonic activities and more
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of their good results; and I believe there is a growing appreciation of the worth and influence of our Antient Fraternity as a universal Brotherhood, both here and abroad, for which we must be duly thankful to the Giver of all Good.
He announces the death of their Past Grand Master, M.'. W / . Brother JuLius THOMPSON WHITLOCK.
The following three suggestions made by the Grand Master are most worthy, and from our own experience in connection with this line of work we believe they will be of an advantage in handling the affairs in their several districts: 1. That District Deputy Grand Masters meet for consultatioH with the Grand Master, at some convenient time and place, at least once or twice a year. 2. That District Deputy Grand Masters be ex officio members of committees of investigation to report upon applications for admission within their districts, or be given authority to see that investigating committees properly perform their duties. .•?. That t o avoid the accumulation of unpaid dues, some provision be made for the suspension or exclusion of delinquents by lapse of time, without the action of the Lodge: and for their restoration, with or without the action of the Lodge.
Referring to the Order of the Eastern Star, he had the following to say: The Order of the Eastern Star, which originated in Mississippi about .seventv-fi vfi vea.r.s ago. ha,s ,«ippp.j),ri .^o ra-nidly t h a t i t is T^OW sa.i'd t o be tile i5ir£6St
organization of women in the world. I share the conviction of my immediate predecessor Liiaii it siiouid be and remain an organization exclusively for women. This is no strange, or ill-considered opinion. As we were told two years ago, it has been adopted by the Grand Lodges of England, Ireland and Nova Scotia; the three from which nearly all the older lodges in this jurisdiction derive their authority, and whose decisions, therefore, we are bound to look upon with the greatest respect. Following the precedent of the United Grand Lodge of England, and of the Grand Lodge of Ireland, the Grand Lodge of Scotland has recently moved in the matter, and has passed a resolution requiring the Order of the Eastern Star in Scotland so to amend its constitution as not to admit Masons to its membership. Failing such amendment within a reasonable time, the Grand Lodge was to take further action. The matter has not been followed up, but went far enough to show the feeling of Grand Lodge that the Order, whether as an organization of women or as a mixed organization, should be self-supporting, and not in any way connected with Masonry. It would help to unite us more closely with Masonry in the mother country if all Grand Lodges in Canada that have not already done so would take a similar stand.
As charity begins at home, but does not end there, so universal brotherhood begins at home. We are first New Brunswick Masons, then Canadian Alasons, then British Masons, with our own traditions and associations. This is not placing our nationality above International good will, but raising nationality to the plane of brotherhood. The Brotherhood of Nations is the Brotherhood of Man. Can Masonry help to strengthen the tie that binds together the English speaking nations? Can English Masonry and English speech carry the message of Brotherly Love to all the nations of the earth? There is only one answer for us to give; and if I had the gift of exhortation I would call upon each one
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of you to give it, on every possible occasion, and with all the power and' influence at Us command. An English dreamer sings to us of the triumphs of the English tongue, foretelling a time when all the world shall have learned the meaning of those English words. Faith, Freedom, Heaven and Home. Alas for England and her scattered brood, and alas for the civilization of the world, if upon the page of the future the word Freedom be writ so large as to leave no room for the other three. There is no freedom in Freemasonry other than freedom within the strict lines of the Master's Square; no liberty but in obedience to Him whose service is perfect freedom. I n nature. Light and Life and Law are Inseparable. In our material building, and in our moral and spiritual edifice as well, the lines that are to give strength and beauty must be true. Can it be otherwise in our social and political relations? There, as everywhere, hatred is death and destruction, whether it be race hatred, class hatred, or any other. Pieemasonry cannot fulfil its mission by proclaiming lofty principles and evading them in practice. The laws, rules and regulations established of old are not to be set aside. The bond of union, and the greatest of Masonic virtues, is Love to all mankind.
The above was approved by the Committee on Grand Master's Address, and we herewith quote their words: Your Committee endorses heartily the comments of the Most "Worshipful the Grand Master in respect to the Eastern Star. With it, as an Order, separate and apart from Masonry, we can find no fault, but when it seeks to become an affiliate or appendage of Masonry, it is time that we took action to keep our position and purposes intact. JAMES VROOM, M . ' . W.-. Grand Master, Saint Stephen. J. TWINING HARTT, R.*. W . \ Grand Secretary, Saint John.
Next Annual, Saint John, August 23, 1928.
NEW JERSEY—1928. . Lodges, 2 2 6 ; m e m b e r s , 92,565; n e t gain, 2,968. T r e n t o n , April 18, 1928. H O W A R D R . C R U S E , M . - . W . - . G r a n d Master. All G r a n d Officers were present a t this C o m m u n i c a t i o n , as well as t h e G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e of o u r G r a n d Lodge, M.'. W.". B r o t h e r ARTHUR POTTERTON.
J u s t before t h e G r a n d M a s t e r s u b m i t t e d his a n n u a l a d d r e s s , M.-. W.-. B r o t h e r W I L L I A M B . M A C K E Y addressed t h e G r a n d L o d g e , a n d in concluding his r e m a r k s p r e s e n t e d their faithful G r a n d Secret a r y , B r o t h e r ISAAC C H E R R Y , with a gold w a t c h . T h e gift c a m e a s a decided surprise a s i n d i c a t e d b y t h e following words delivered b y Brother CHERRY:
This is, indeed, a great surprise. I am overcome by your goodness. "We prepared a program for this Annual Communication, which had the approval of the Most Worshipful Grand Master, but this particular item did. not appear. There are very few words that I can say at this time. May I ask the Secretaries to stand with me, please':* To you brethren, as well as to those who are not present, but who had a part in this beautiful gift, and to Most Worshipful Brother WILLIAM B . MACKEY, for all that he did and his very kind words; I give sincere thanks. I t will be a constant reminder of the very pleasant re-
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lations which have always existed between us and of the many happy hours we have spent together in the interest of this great Fraternity, which we all so dearly love. There is much more that I would like to say, but I cannot now. My heart is too full. You.have made this one of the happiest moments of my life. I hope to be able to express my great appreciation to each one of you personally. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart. The Grand Master prefaced his address with the following remarks: " N o stay has time, nor stopping, behold how swift its flight." I t seems but yesterday that you conferred on me the high office of Grand Master, and now another year has passed into history and we are assembled in the One Hundred and Forty-flrst Annual Communicadon of this Grand Lodge. Peace and prosperity prevail throughout the Craft, the blessing of GOD remains upon our Institution and His spirit inspires Freemasonry with ideals of exalted achievement. As usual, they held their Annual Feast of ST.' JOHN on December 29, 1928, in Trenton. They were honored on this occasion with a splendid address by Doctor J. STANLEY D U R K E E , of Plymouth Church, Brooklyn, New York. The Grand Master recommended the creation of a Board of General Purposes, with a view of bringing the Grand Lodge committees into closer co-ordination. The plan he suggested was based on t h a t of the United Grand Lodge of England. His recommendation provided that the Board should be composed of the four principal olHcers and the Grand Treasurer, and the Grand Secretary was to ,
CI
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"r,
^
o c x v c a,o wjc\iici/al^ yjl uric A J u a r u .
The Committee on Grand Master's Address referred the recommendation to the Grand Lodge and it was approved. The Grand Master concluded his address with the following words: In one sense that poem of THACKERAY'S gives expression to my feeling. Like most of my predecessors, I shall surrender the office of Grand Master with mingled sentiments of relief and regret; relief a t the lifting of responsibility and regret a t the passing of the privilege of service. This has been the happiest as well as the busiest year of my life. Vested with authority, I have been humble in spirit. Conscious of faults and failures, I have given my best. I understand as never before that realization cannot equal expectation. Many things remain undone which 1 had hoped to do. In the words of WHITTIEB: " Others shall sing the song. Others shall right the wrong, Finish what I begin. And all I fail to win, What matter, I or they, Mine or another's day. So the right word be said. And life the sweeter made? " The Proceedings are embellished with splendid halftones of several of their Masonic Temples, including the entrance to their Masonic Home, bringing it out in relief. This entrance was a memorial to R.-. W.\ ROBERT A. SHIRREFS.
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A splendid address was delivered by R/. W/. Brother Rev. WiLUAM H. MORGAN, Past Grand Chaplain, and we take pleasure in
quoting the following: Now, this material age in which we are living has made people think t h a t of us, and the world Is saying to us, " I know your works, I know your deeds, I know your marvelous inventions, I know what you can do, I know of your flying machines, of your radios and all the rest of it," but what the world is asking of America is this; " W h a t kind of men is America producing?" And when we can think of the manhood of America in terms of the trinity that I love to glory in myself—"WASHINGTON, LINCOLN and EOOSEVELT, and point them out as our ideal types of American citizenship, we can answer that question to the satisfaction of any people in the world. The same is true when it comes to Masons. The chief product of the Masonic fraternity is character, and unless you are producing a type of man peculiar, as it is put in the New Testament, "zealous unto good works," as well as peculiar in the development of life, no matter how great the fraternity becomes, no matter how widespread its influence may be, it is a failure until it can express itself in terms of splendid manhood and of glorious living. HORACE GHEELEY, when dying, said, " F a m e is a vapor; popularity an accident. Riches take wings and fly away. Those who cheer today will curse tomorrow. There is but one thing that endures—character." And HORACE GREELEY certainly was right—fame is a vapor. Popularity is largely a matter of your availabiUty in the State, county or portion of the country you are living in. Eiches take wings—they never took wings from me, for I never had any—but they do just the same. Those who cheer today will curse tomorrow. If you want to know something about your ancestry, run forpublic ofBce and you will be perfectly amazed to find the kind of stuff that lies, back of you. HORACE GEEELEY, when he ran for the Presidency of the United. States, found out all about HORACE GREELEY. He knew more about HORACE GREELEY than his father or grandfather had ever known. So the old man was.; speaking out of the bitterness of, his soul and yet he gave utterance to profound thinking when he said, " T h e only thing that endures is character." The one thing that has made me so proud of my Masonic affiliations and of my Masonicfellowship has been the type of men t h a t I have known'in the Masonic fraternity in this State of New Jersey. For twenty-five years I have been associated: with this Grand Lodge. For twelve years I was Grand Chaplain. I have known the brethren of the Grand East and the brethren of the lodges in New Jersey, 1 tliink, as intimately as any other minister of the Gospel in the Stat& ever knew them. I want to say this without throwing flowers at you—I might better give them to you now before you are dead—I would rather say 1* with flowers anyhow—the grandest body of men and American citizens t h a t I have ever known, I have known within the confines of the great Masonic fraternity. And our great business is to give to the world these ideals and these principles. They are eternal and immortal. We must give these ideals to the world in a way that the world will understand—incarnate them in the manhood of our fraternity. Unless we thus incarnate the principles of our fraternity, by so much are we a failure.
In the Report on Foreign Correspondence we find a friendly reference to our 1927 Proceedings. The review of our journal was prepared by Brother WILLIAM S . H U N T . • WILLIAM T . VANDERLIPP, M . - . W.-. Grand Master, East Orange. ISAAC CHERRY, R.-. W-". Grand Secretary, Trenton. ERNEST A. REED, Correspondent.
Next Annual, Trenton,?April 17, 1929.
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NEW MEXICO—1928. Lodges, 5 8 ; members, 6,692; n e t gain, 114. M a g d a l e n a , F e b r u a r y 20, 1928.
J O H N S . MACTAVISK, M . - . W . - .
Grand Master. I n t h e preface t o t h e a d d r e s s of t h e G r a n d M a s t e r he h a d t h e following t o s a y , among other t h i n g s : "While we have several vacancies in the ranks of those who have served long and earnestly with us in the past, our thoughts should revert with humble gratitude, to a beneficent Providence, for the many blessings we have enjoyed since our last Communication. Nor should we, on this anniversary, be unmindful of the many advantages with which the Great Architect of the Universe has been pleased to bless us; nor of that heritage bequeathed to us by those who have well and worthily laid the foundations of our National Institutions. T o u c h i n g on t h e subject of t h e proposed N a t i o n a l Masonic T u b e r culosis S a n a t o r i a Association, which proposition did n o t meet with t h e co-operation anticipated b y o u r N e w Mexico brethren, t h e G r a n d M a s t e r s u m m e d u p t h e question in t h e following words: We in New Mexico and the Southwest feel rather discouraged at their turning a cold shoulder and deaf ear to our appeal for aid, to the National Masonic Tuberculosis Sanatoria Association, and while wo realize that the •conditions confronting us are not so graphic, and do not appeal to outside and •<iis*"-^n^- -Tni'igHip-t.inng pc do National IDisasters "^^et- v/e knov/ that- the sick;and iihe needy sufferers from tuberculosis we have, and always will have with us. T h e writer does n o t feel w a r r a n t e d in discussing t h e above pro-, p o s e d plan for t h e relief of t h o s e afflicted w i t h tuberculosis, b u t can :say i n all sincerity t h a t t h e proposition as p u t forth b y this association w a s t o o far reaching, from a financial p o i n t of view, t o w a r r a n t iGrand Lodges in giving it favorable consideration. T h e tables of m o r t a l i t y a n d t h e n u m b e r afPicted w i t h t h i s d r e a d disease t h r o u g h o u t t h e U n i t e d S t a t e s were based wholly on conditions, regardless of their connection with F r e e m a s o n r y ; hence t h e proposed plan, from a financial p o i n t of view, w a s o u t of r e a c h of G r a n d Lodges, a n d t h e r e fore could n o t receive t h e i r s u p p o r t . T h e G r a n d Master in concluding his a d d r e s s h a d t h e following to say: There has been I firmly believe, a broadening conception of the purpose of pur Order, of our responsibility extending beyond the confines of the Lodges, and an unselfish desire to render service to the communities. This wider vision I have endeavored to encourage in my contact with the Brethren. F r o m t h e C o m m i t t e e on O b i t u a r y we t a k e pleasure in quoting t h e following: How forcefully have we been reminded, of the truth of our teaching, that " D e a t h " is no respecter of persons; the Great Architect of the Universe sends forth the summons and Brethren are called to lay aside the working tools of
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life and submit the plans heretofore to them entrusted, of the temple upon which, thru the years of life they have been laboring To us, many times it may seem that the structure is not completed; In this we are not permitted t o draw aside the curtains;" nevertheless we are assured that their particular task is done. It may have been only an arch or even a niche, perhaps a magnificent structure; but the cement of brotherly love and affection is enduring and everlasting in its influence. The Report on Correspondence was prepared by Brother JOHN M I L N E ; however, we note the absence of any reference to our own
jurisdiction. SAMUEL E . WOOD, M . ' . W . ' . Grand Master, Gallup. ALPHEUS A . K E E N , R . ' . W.". Grand Secretary, Albuquerque. JOHN MILNE, Correspondent.
Next Annual, Gallup, February 18, 1929.
NEW YORK—1928. Lodges, 1,000; m e m b e r s , 337,558; n e t gain, 8,263. N e w Y o r k C i t y , M a y 1, 1928.
HAROLD J. RICHARDSON, M.-. W.-.
Grand Master. B r o t h e r A L B E R T C . B U R D I C K , our G r a n d R e p r e s e n t a t i v e , w a s present. Preceding t h e p r e s e n t a t i o n of t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s address t h e y received as an h o n o r e d guest B r o t h e r B E R N T B A L C H E N of N o r s e m e n Lodge, one of America's g r e a t e s t flyers a n d discoverers, w h o cond u c t e d C o m m a n d e r B Y R D across t h e A t l a n t i c Ocean. I n i n t r o d u c i n g h i m their G r a n d Senior W a r d e n , B r o t h e r C H A R L E S H . J O H N S O N , h a d t h e following t o s a y : There is one Brother who happens to be a member of tliis Grand.lurisdiction, a member of Norsemen Lodge, who has been associated with the most prominent men in that Held of flying. He is the man who conducted Commander BYHD safely across the Atlantic Ocean; he is the man who, with his dear friend and colleague FLOYD BENNETT, flew to the rescue of the fliers who were stranded on Greenley Island, and when FLOYD BENNETT was taken so seriously 111 this Brother, in spite of the fact he too was ill, pushed on to Greenley Island and brought back safely to New York City the three men who had crossed the Atlantic coining westward. He is in charge of the Antarctic Expedition of Commander BYRD and is devoting himself now to that task, and will leave in a few months for the Antarctic to accompany Commander BYED in what we hope will be one of the great historical events In the history of the world; and I, therefore, take great pleasure in presenting our Brother to you. Most Worshipful Sir—Bro. BEKNT BALCHEN of Norsemen Lodge, No. 87S. B r o t h e r B A L C H E N r e s p o n d e d as follows: Brethren, it is a great honor for me to come in here and attend your meeting, and ic certainly gives a tremendous impression for me to see this gathering of Masons from the whole New York State. I can assure you that there is no place in the world where you will see a gathering of representative Masons in
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such number as you see here in this Lodge; and I feel it now that I have been called t o be in t h e Masonic order and it is a great honor for me as a new member to be able to be present here a t the opening of your Lodge meeting. M.: W / . HAROLD J. RICHARDSON, Grand Master, then delivered his annual address, first calling attention to this being the one hundred forty-seventh time the Grand Lodge has met in Annual Communication, and he had the following to say: For the one hundred and forty-seventh time this Grand Lodge meets in Annual Communication. As the years pass, times change, and the world undergoes many transformations, our great Craft continues, dedicated to the same high purposes that have animated it since Brethren first learned to meet upon the level and part upon the square. I t is the Grand Master's privilege and duty to make to you a report of Grand Lodge activities during the year,' to warn you of possible dangers, to counsel you concerning the, nuestioTis you will discuss, to recommend to you such new tasks as now seem ripe for undertaking, and to inspire you, if the ability within him lies, to a renewed and still more whole-hearted dedication to the faith and work of our ancient Fraternity. Peace reigns within our borders and harmony among our members. May the Sovereign Grand Architect of the Universe, in whose name we assemble, as Masons always do, grant that such may continue; may He give us strength for our tasks, wisdom for our deliberations, guidance In the dark places, and an enlarged vision of our possibilities. Under the head of] "Necrology" he first calls attention to the death of their Junior P a s t Grand Ma-ster. M.-. W=*= Brother WILLIAM A. ROWAN. He likewise refers in a touching manner to the death of K.-. W.". GEORGE A. STEBBINS, their Grand Marshal. He announced that about eighty-five per cent of their lodges are following the custom of presenting a copy of the Bible to their candidates. Some of t h e brethren venture to suggest t h a t this presentation should be made when the third degree is conferred. As mentioned by the writer in reviewing another jurisdiction with reference to this same subject, we feel that the presenting of a Bible to one who has been considered worthy of the honors of Freemasonry is rather a reflection upon his home surroundings as it is not likely that any one worthy of favorable consideration in our time honored institution would not be in possession of one or more copies of the Holy Writ before presenting his petition. Under "Emblems and Symbols" the Grand Master had the following to say: During the past two years. Brethren, I have many times observed a tendency among our Lodges to become increasingly careless of our symbols and emblems. The Great Pillars are crowded into a corner, and they are often in a sadly dilapidated state; the Ashlars are laid on the floor behind a chair; the Mosaic Pavement with the Blazing Star is nowhere in sight; even the Altar, with its surrounding Tapers, is often so ill-dressed and arrayed as to give the impression that the brethren have forgotten the sanctity without which an altar becomes a hypocritical make-believe. There are some, I know, who make light of our emblems and symbols, thinking, I suppose, that they represent a meaningless formality. We must not permit those brethren to have their way. Other associations express their
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principles or deliver their teachings by print or word of mouth; Masonry expresses its ideals and principles by symbolism. I t is this which has always made it unlQue, which holds it together, which constitutes its rich and peculiar genius. Without its symbolism it is mute; its great teachings are silent, it loses its spiritual thrust, and ceases to make an impress upon the mind. I t is all-important, therefore, that we keep the symbols and emblems tn their ancient places, where they may exercise their silent and continuous influence, lest Masons themselves forget the meaning and ministry of Masonry, and the Craft, in these thoughtless, hasty times, degenerate into a mere playground, emptied of its great ideals and robbed of its soul. The Grand Master heartily endorses the dual membership proposition, and we note the law was so amended as to permit this practice in the largest Masonic jurisdiction in the United States. To the notion of the writer this is one of the most serious mistakes the Grand Lodge of New York has ever made as it will only result in a confused mass of statistics, meaningless in detail, unreliable in every respect and the damage resulting from such legislation is irreparable, as it will not be humanly possible in a few years to correct the errors which of necessity' will be made in attempting to keep a roster of membership. This subject was fully covered by the writer in his preface to the Report on Correspondence one year ago. The Grand Master, in the exercise of his rights, suspended the charter of one of their lodges for a flagrant violation of the Rules, Regulations and Ancient Landmarks of the Fraternity. Under "Masonic Clubs" among other things, he had the following to say: There are a few of them which seem to have forgotten their moral obligations to that Fraternity without which they would have no field for action nor excuse for being. In some cases tills conduct can be described only as a deliberate trafftcking in the name and good will of Masonry for purposes or activities that Masonry has always condemned. Such a tiling cannot, of course, be permitted. Their officers are responsible for the conduct of ihese organizations; their members are responsible for their conduct as Masons; all of them must understand that they are held to these responsibilities. As to Clubs which operate within or under the direct supervision of your Lodge, you must remember. Brother Worsliipful Master, that you are responsible for them. By a word, by a stroke of the pen, you can cause any Club within your Lodge to cease to exist. Don't be afraid to use your authority. Don't permit a Club to become a secondary Lodge, a wheel within a wheel, trying to manage your Lodge for you; that way lies the disruption of the harmony which it is the first duty of Masons to uphold. We are pleased to quote all of that portion of his address under the head of " T h e Symbolic Degrees are Basic to Masonry": I come now to speak of a matter which, like PANDORA'S box, is filled with confusion if it is opened carelessly or without proper understanding. Those of you who know your history of American Masonry are familiar with the fact that a generation or so ago a number of our Grand Lodges found themselves confronted by serious crises owing to claims made by certain spokesmen, many of them self-appointed, of the so-called Higher Bodies of Masonry. These claims were to the efifect that the Three Degrees of SymboUc Masonry belonged
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originally to one or another of the Higher Bodies; that they are now in the custody of the Symbolic Lodges and Grand Lodges only by sufferance; and that the final courts of power and authority in the whole body of Masonry are vested in the councils of those so-called Higher Bodies. That crisis passed because the great majority of Masons knew such claims to be false to history, unfounded in fact, and fallacious in reasoning. Nov,-, like a phoonix arising from its ashes, the schismatic and ingenious claim is being raised again in certain quarters in America and is being vigorously upheld by certain forces, some of them emanating from among our own Grand Jurisdictions, in circles and countries abroad. It is this condition rather than interest in any mere academic theory, that has led me to speak of the matter a t this time. This Grand Lodge went on record at the last Annual Communication to the effect tha^ it gives fraternal recognition to the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, the Grand Council of Royal and Select Masters, the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar, and the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, as belonging to and being a legitimate pari of the regular and acknowledged whole body of Freeniasonry. This Grand Lodge shall, I have no doubt, always continue to dwell in harmony and accord with those Masonic Bodies. I have no thought of raising any cLuestion as to this relationship between them and us. At the same time I believe it is well for this Grand Lodge to affirm and reafllrm the fact, established now for two centuries, that Grand Lodges, and Grand Lodges alone, have complete, and final, and exclusive sovereignty over the Three Degrees, with all the rights, prerogatives, and privileges appertaining thereto; and that we stand always ready to assert and exercise that sovereignty within our own boundaries and to lend our influence and support to other recognized Grand Lodges within whose .Turisdictions the contrary claim may be set forth hy any individual or group cf individuals, here or abroad. !Morc tliaii uiiue your Overseas Ivlissions have encountered in Europe and the Near East the Influences scattered there of American Masons representing officially American so-called Higher Bodies who have denied the principle of Grand Lodge sovereignty over the Three Degrees and who have encouraged there the formation of Grand Bodies to be-based on a theory to the contrary. In my judgment such behavior is a flagrant violation of the laws and Landmarks of the Craft and brethren so offending should be dealt with accordingly' by the Symbolic Lodges to which they belong. Referring t o t h e M a s o n i c P e a c e M e m o r i a l being erected b y t h e U n i t e d G r a n d Lodge of E n g l a n d , he h a d t h e following to s a y : I would give you the complete picture of the Ceremony, but it is beyond my power to describe all the dignity and majesty, so characteristic of EngUsh Freemasonry, which pervaded it. Albert Hall was filled to capacity, some nine thousand Brothers being present. We from New York were awed and inspired by its every detail. The impressiveuess of the entrance of the Grand Master and Ills Staff was exceeded only by their rendition of the Ceremonial. The gold-embroidered collars, cuffs and aprons of the officers added picturesqueness. There were gathered under one roof thousands of Masons, all seemingly dressed alike. No sign of levity could be detected anywhere. It was serious business performed by serious-minded men whose perceptions of the motif that underlay the undertaking at hand could not be mistaken. Royalty, Nobility, Army, Navy, the Clergy, and the Laity, all banded together as equals sponsoring a great cause, functioning under the banner of Freemasonry as Brothers in a common cause.
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W e are q u i t e sure t h e G r a n d M a s t e r ' s words in his conclusion will a p p e a l t o our readers, a n d we therefore q u o t e t h e m almost in t h e i r entirety: As I look back in retrospect over the past year I can see that our Craft is sound in body and limb, essentially healthy, and that we have every right to expect it to continue in harmony, and to increase in good works in the future. We have our problems, as must be expected in an organization so large. Some of these problems I have discussed already in this address: some are already familiar to you, and others must await the future. As for myself, I am convinced that many of our most perplexing problems resolve themselves into phases or aspects of one fundamental problem, which it is not difficult to envisage. We might describe it as the difficulty found by 'the Craft in properly assimilating the new members and by the new members in assimilating the Craft. Consider this picture! On the one hand, is the new member. He is an Individual. He comes to the door of the Lodge with only the vaguest of notions of what kind of thing Freemasonry is. He has heard dim accounts of its mysterious history and vague rumors of its hidden activities. He brings nothing with him but his own head and his two hands, and he is perhaps a little timid and somewhat embarrassed. On the other hand stands the great Fraternity, with all its complexity. Behind it is the vast sweep of its history, with its ever-increasing richness of traditions. Within it Is its ritual, the strange form of which is so baffling, like speech in a forgotten language; its philosophy; its emblems and symbols; its intricate system of jurisprudence; its peculiar system of offices; Its truly bewildering complexity of activities; like a vast machine whirring, wheels within wheels. Around it are all manner of outgrowths and undergrowths, concordant bodies, side .orders, and social organizations without number. How shall the individual find his way into this strange, new world? What are the paths for him to follow? Where shall he discover his own appropriate place or station? How shall he learn to perforin his duties? How can he become a Mason in fact as well as in name? If he fails, he loses his interest, drops from sight, becomes a mere name on the rolls, receives nothing except the satisfaction of calling himself a Mason, and gives nothing except his annual dues. Or else, if he becomes active, he may do himself and the Craft more harm than good, not from malice, but out of a complete misunderstanding of Masonry, its practices, its rules, and its purposes; he may, for example, believe the Lodge to be a social club, existing merely to give him a good time; or a sectarian organization out to make war on some church or political party; or act out of some other misconception equally wild. The solution for this problem is for us to organize ourselves in all our parts and branches to close the gap between the Fraternity and the new member. We must keep the paths open for his feet to travel; we must develop to the full every possible means to acquaint him with the Fraternity, to enable him to understand it and to find his place in it, to appropriate it into his own private life, and to contribute his life to It. Everything that can help to close the gap between the individual and the Craft should be used by us, 1 believe, should be encouraged and supported, not as a fad o'r as a luxury but as a neccssUu under the new conditions our extraordinary growth have imposed upon us. By all possible means we should create and sustain such an atmosphere of enlightened Interest and understanding throughout our whole membership that it will become the natural and inevitable thing for every member to have a living knowledge of Masonry under his skin, flowing in his blood, shaping and inspiring his life. In so many cases Masonry does not have a chance with the Mason: It must be given that chance lest the day come when Masons cease to be Masons and become members only.
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YORK.
February
This Mason or that may fail, but Masonry itself,—how can it fail! Who can believe t h a t after it has served and inspired so many generations of Craftsmen i t can wax old or permit its altar flres to wane! Nay, it will triumph always, triumph, if needs be, over the failures and weakness of Masons themselves. The record of its centuries gives every man a just warrant for trusting it to the fullest. I t asks for nothing but a chance in a man's life to prove itself worthy of any man's time, and energy, and self-sacrifice. I t s lair is within the hearts of men; its roots lie deep in our natures; its truths are the ancient and universal verities that sustain human life in this world. Trust in the Sovereign Grand Architect, the assured triumph of the soul over death, the joys of brotherly association, the inspirations of the helping hand, the tolerance that lives and lets live; this Is Masonry, it is also manhood. GOD grant that all of us may be spared many years to come to bear witness t o this and to help make it prevail in the world. The Grand Secretary's report consumes practically only one page of their printed Proceedings,. wViich; to the average reader, v.'ou'd indicate t h a t his duties - are light and the responsibilities even less. This, however, is not the case as the work and responsibility resting on Brother KENWORTHY'S shoulders is possibly heavier than t h a t borne b y any other Grand Secretary in the Masonic world, not even excepting the United Grand Lodge of England. The writer is well aware t h a t he is the REAL power behind the throne and his wise counsel and advice has much to do with bringing about the present harmonious condition which exists between so many Grand Lodges throughout the Masonic world. The Grand Lodge of New York would be wi.se in following the action of our Grand Lodge at its last Annual Cornmumeation a u j in the future lighten the heavy load of this faithful servant and take advantage of his wonderful scope of knowledge as an adviser during the remainder of his life. To the notion of the writer the " d i e in the harness " s a y i n g is not based on good practical common sense and is only supported b y sentiment. We note their faithful Past Grand Master, Judge S. NELSON SAWYER, was unable to attend this Communication on account of court work. The usual Report on Correspondence was again prepared by Past Grand Master S. NELSON SAWYER, and in the preface he had the following to say: Again we have to confess that, despite our best efforts to condense the reviews into the fewest number of pages and yet omit nothing which may be of help to our Brethren to obtain a fairly comprehensive idea of the work and character of the various Jurisdictions which have favored us with copies of their Proceedings, the report is more voluminous than any which have preceded it. Furthermore, as in the past, we felt it to be our duty t o make the report as attractive, readable and interesting as we could, to assure its appeal to the favor of an increasing number of readers. We want it to be a contribution of real value to the Craft. Knowing from personal experience the inspiration and the broadening of the understanding which are derived from a study of the many aspects of Freemasonry as illustrated by what is being done under its auspices in the several States of our Nation and in other countries, we submit that the survey
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ZEALAND.
293
herein supplied, may well engage the interest of our Lodges and such study clubs as have been formed to know and understand how the Fraternity operates and what it accomplishes year by year in the pursuit of its great mission.
He reviews our 1927 Proceedings, referring briefly to the more important matters which came before the Grand Lodge at that time. We note, however, that he refers to the erection of a monument on the Masonic Home cemetery grounds at Wichita, t o replace the bronze shaft erected by the Grand Lodge in 1878. We venture to suggest to Judge SAWYER that if he will again refer to our 1927 Proceedings he will note that the SMITH-VANDERSLICE monument was erected to re(place the bronze shaft erected to their memory in the north-east •corner of Kansas, near the village of Highland, in 1878. Our Proceedings, however, contain the likeness of another marble shaft which was erected on the Masonic Home cemetery grounds at Wichita, but was entirely separate and distinct from the historical SMITH-VANDERSLICE .monument. . JOHN A. BUTTON, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, New York City. ROBERT JUDSON KENWORTHY, R.V W . \ Grand Secretary, Masonic
;Hall, New York City. .S. NELSON SAWYER, P.-. G.-. M.-..Correspondent, Palmyra.
NEW ZEALAND-1927. Lodges, 288; members, 25,579; net gain, 756. Christchurch, November 30, 1927. The first order of business was the announcement of the presence of M.-. W.\ Brother GEORGE RUSSELL, Pro Grand Master, who assumed his station in the East. Following this the Grand Secretary read the following telegram from M.-. W.-. Brother CHARLES FERGUSSON, their Grand Master: I send warmest fraternal greetings to the brethren assembled, who will be constantly in my thoughts to-day. I deeply regret the trouble and inconvenience caused by my failure to be present. I pray and feel sure that their deliberations will be guided aright for the good of the Craft which we all have so much a t heart.
In response to this the following' telegram was sent by order of the Grand Lodge: That Grand Lodge, in Annual Communication assembled, expresses its deep sympathy with the M.-. "W.-. the Grand Master in the serious illness which has overtaken him, and prays that the Great Architect of the Universe will grant him a speedy restoration to health, and, further, that the brethren convey to His Excellency an expression of their loyalty and aflfection for him and regret a t his enforced absence from the Communication, j ys^ At this Communication M.-. W.-. Brother CHARLES FERGUSSON
was unanirnously selected as Grand Master.
294
CORRESPONDENCE—NORTH
CAROLINA.
February,
I t is noted that during the year the Grand Master made forty-six official visits to his lodges. We note t h a t a memorial stone is to be erected in memory of their Past Grand Master and Past Grand Secretary, M / . W/. Brother MALCOLM NICOLL. On November 30th the Pro Grand Master v/as duly installed. On February 8, 1928, their Grand Master, M.-. W.-. General Sir CHARLES FERGUSSON was duly installed. From the address of the Grand Master we take pleasure in quoting the following: Brethren, I have spoken of the importance of banding on the traditions and atmosphere of Freemasonry, and I have tried to express what to me these things convey. Freemasonry is a practical exposition of conduct and character in life, of the rules which should guide us, of the faith which should sustain us. I t is eminently practical: that is its value and its .qtrp.ngth, Tt has been said that no one can be a good Mason without being a good man; and however much we fail and come short of that ideal the least we can do is to aim high. I t is in that light that I ask you to consider what has been said, an attempt to define the only sure foundation on which we can build. We have entered on a new year; new experiences confront us, new difllculties, new trials. So it has always been, a n d so i t always will be in the lives of all. Freemasonry is based upon the realization of the Fatherhood of God, and the Brotherhood of Man. If we recognize the guiding and loving Hand that has led us in the past and will lead us in the future; if we realize that our work in life is service to our fellow men and that true happiness is only to be found in giving that service, then the new experiences can be faced with perfect faith that all will be well and that the end will Oidy uuuie when we have finished the work allotted to us. Uur personal example and influence, unconsciously exercised, is always working away like leaven in the lump. Bring each his stone, let it be cemented with the love by which it is put in place, and that is all that is asked or expected. And so the stones will mount higher and higher undl the Divine Edifice is complete, and " t h e earth is filled with the glory of GOD as the waters cover the sea." There is no Report on Correspondence. CHARLES FERGUSSON, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, Wellington. GEORGE BARCLAY, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, Wellington. Next Annual, (Place and date not given.)
NORTH CAROLINA —1928. Lodges, 443; members, 41,439; net loss, 204. Raleigh, January 17, 1928. JOHN H . ANDERSON, M.-. W.-. Grand Master. Our remarks concerning non-attendance of our Grand Representative made heretofore have borne no fruit, and we therefore again repeat that so far as a Grand Representative of Kansas near the Grand Lodge of North Carolina is concerned it is a huge joke.
1928-29.
COBBESPONDENCE—NOBTH
CABOLINA.
295
The Grand Master had the following to say in the preface to his address: In the hectic days of the Great World War and the return of the boys from the army our lodges admitted many members who were utterly unable to reaUze or appreciate the great aims of our institution. This material was never assimilated and the natural consequence was a state of indifference and stagnation. For some years this condition had been increasing until it was necessary that some drastic action be taken. Many lodges seemed to feel that they were a law unto themselves and any action of the Grand Lodge or Grand Master was an unnecessary and unwarranted interference with their rights. Several times I made occasion to visit such lodges and in the " s l a n g " of the day tell them " where they got off ". \t:{. After the flood tide of the war n was to be expected there would be a reaction but I believe the low water mark has been reached and Masonry will go forward with renewed strength and vigor. I had not hoped for any increase in membership as I expected many of these war-time members, I will not call them Masons, to drop their membership after they had satisfied their curiosity and found that Masonry did not offer personal, political or business advantages. The report of the Grand Secretary will show a small decrease but we have only lost some drones and made more elbow room for the workers
They suffered the loss of their Junior Grand Warden, Brother ANDREW J. HARRIS, who died at his home on November 10th after a
long illness. The Grand Master made the following ruling in answer to a question as to whether a one armed man could be made a .Mason, and we submit it as a matter of information to show just how far some of our good brethren can "stretch" the Ancient Charges and requirements of the Fraternity: "Maim or deformity shall not prevent a candidate from being initiated * * * provided such candidate can, by artificial means, comply with the provisions of par. 1 of this section". If the candidate has lost only his left hand he can comply with the requirements of initiation (by artificial means) provided he habitually uses a false hand, but if his left arm is amputated above the elbow he could not comply with the requirements of the second degree. U n d e r t h e h e a d of " S w a n S o n g " , ordinarily t e r m e d " C o n c l u s i o n " , h e h a d t h e following t o s a y : I cannot too strongly urge you, after the business of the session is con" eluded, to return to your homes and lodges filled with a desire and determination to devote your time, talents and energies to the cause we all hold so dear. Masonry was intended to be a blessing to mankind. Have we made it so? Have we served with that fervency and zeal that should actuate all true Masons? Acts of charity bring their own reward. A happy smile, a cheerful word or hearty handshake, bring a warmth of sunshine and stir the affection of the heart not only of the recipient but also of the giver. We pass this way but once. Eiches may be made and lost. Man lies down and dies and is forgotten, but the inonument of kindly deeds, devoted service and cheerful disposition built in the hearts of men not only lives throughout all time but is a kingly monument that may be had by the humblest subject. May it be your pleasure to erect such a monument. May we live to see the day when Masonry will be enshrined into the hearts of all men and we, as brothers, go marching on in an irresistable tide that shall sweep into oblivion
296
COBBESPONDENCE—NOBTH
CABOLINA.
February,
all envy and discord, crowning our lives with the blissful knowledge that we have done our best to make this old World of ours a better place in which to live, filUng our hearts with the tender recollections of the good we have done, and dying with the satisfaction that we have fought a good flght, kept the faith and are only passing on to that land where love is supreme and bliss and happiness forever reign. The Grand Secretary submits a report largely statistical; however, we note a gross error in his summary of membership as he reported the membership one year ago as 41,643, while this year he shows it as 41,558. Based on these figures he shows a net loss of 119, while a comparison with last year's report makes it 204. An interesting oration was submitted to Grand Lodge, from which we take pleasure in quoting the following: I t seems t o my mind that the greatest question that is occupying the statesmen and the thinkers of the World, especially those that are civlUzed, is that of World Peace and a Warless World. I t seems to me that the "one faroff divine event toward which all creation " has moved through the centuries that have passed Is World Peace, and yet two thousand years after the appearance of the Prince of Peace the Nations of the World threw themselves into the pit of war, in t h e greatest conflict ever known to man. I t seems to me that our great Masonic Body, famous for the spirit of Brotherhood, keenly and actively interested in the welfare of mankind, should pause to think of its relationship to this great task. It seems to me that the war leaders of the World have been all too slow to realize the horrible consequences of War and slow to learn its lessons and too slow to establish the principles of peace. When we consider t h a t in that great World War twice as many men weru killed as Iii ail Liie wars uf line eartii from 1700 to iwiS: wheu we realize that the allied forces mobilized forty-eight million men and sustained twentytwo million casualties—when we realize that the central powers mobilized twenty-two and a half million men fifteen and one-half million casualties—• thirty-seven and a half million casualties of all sorts occurred in the World War, or one-fourth the population of the United States; and when we consider that the cost to • the United States of the World War has been forty-eight billion and the amount is steadily climbing—^it cost all of the allied combined one-hundred sixty-three billion, including property loss and a capitalized value of human life. Before all Is paid it will cost the United States one-hundred billion with sixteen billion more in interest. It cost one-hundred million a day t o run t h a t war for all that were engaged in t h e conflict and, Brethren, this has no reference to the literally 'thousands of widows that were made; literally thousands and possibly millions of orphans that were made. I t has no reference to those great losses in broken hearts, dripping eyes, in crushed ambitions, in shattered hopes, in wrecked and ruined aspirations and the destruction of the sacred Faith of milUons. No wonder, to my mind, that the Nations of the earth are beginning to hate War as never before. To my mind these flgues bankrupt the imagination and there are further facts which indicate that something is wrong. The Committee on Masonic History reports that practically nothing has been done in this work during the past year. It seems from the Committee's report that one reason was because of unavailable funds, and the other on account of the members being away from the jurisdiction. Better speed up, brethren, as the old guard are fast passing away.
1928-29.
CoBBESPONDENCE—NORTH
DAKOTA.
297.
Brother J. EDWARD ALLEN presented the usual Report on Correspondence and we are under obligations for a review of our 1927 Proceedings, covering several pages of his excellent report. Brother ALLEN, however, differs from the writer in the matter of the practice of comity between Grand Lodges and the sovereign rights of each. I t would seem that his understanding of the word "comity" differs very materially from that of the writer's and in order to emphasize our position in this matter we would say that we have always based our actions and the regulations of our Grand Lodge on an understanding that comity between Grand Lodges was practically the same as t h a t between nations-^a formal expression of the ultimate result of that mutual respect accorded throughout the civilized world by representatives of each sovereign power to those of every other, in considering the effects of their official acts. Its foundation is based on a sentiment of reciprocal regard, founded on identity of position and similarity of institutions. Based on the above, what is termed as the Grand Masters' Conference is in opposition t o the same and to our ideas of what is sovereign. RAYMOND C . DUNN, M . ' . W.". Grand Master, Enfield. WILLIAM W . WILLSON, R.-. W . ' . Grand Secretary, Raleigh. J. EDWARD ALLEN, Correspondent, Warrenton.
Next Annual, Raleigh, January 15, 1929,
NORTH DAKOTA —1928. Lodges, 126; members, 15,459; net gain, 52. Fargo, June 19, 1928.
WALTER H . MURFIN, M . ' . W . ' . Grand
Master. We fail to find in these Proceedings a list of the Grand Representatives in attendance at this Communication, or at least such list is not in the report of the Committee on Credentials, or following their reception by the Grand Lodge. From the preface to the Grand Master's address we quote the following: In rendering an account of my stewardship I am pleased to be able to repori/, that while the year has been uneventful, yet Masonry has gone steadily forward and I believe that it can be truthfully said that present conditions are an earnest of great things in the immediate future. Peace and harmony have everywhere prevailed. More and more lodges have discovered that " W o r k " does not necessarily imply merely the conferring of degrees, but that labor for others and service in making our community, our state and nation better places in which to live are as additions to the ritual for making ourselves, as well as our candidates, better men, better citizens and better Masons. At, the same time, and partly because of this broader vision, many lodges are. experiencing a very considerable increase in the number of candidates and; the coming year will, without doubt, show a gratifying increase in our meio^ bership.
298
CORRESPONDENCE—NORTH
DAKOTA.
February.
Under "Necrology" he refers to the death of their Past Grand Masters, D E W I T T C. MOORE, GEORGE H . P H E L P S and District Deputy Grand Master Louis N . ABBOTT, and we take pleasure in quoting the following verses on this topic: " I n Heaven above they surely need not you As we need men so fine and clean a n d true. Come back! Come back I Your kind is all too rare And such as you we can so poorly spare. 'Tia true you builded big in wordly things. And yet, today, within us all there springs Kemembrance of your fine a n d gentle ways— For these, each one of us his tribute pays. We'd wish no shade nor cloud of our repining To dim, one whit, the sun upon you shining— And yet from our grief-laden hearts, we cry, Comeback! We did not even say'good-bye'." I t seems under their laws the Grand Master has the power to suspend members of lodges and his action then goes to the Grand Lodge for final disposition. We are at a loss to understand just what this procedure contemplates as there seems to be nothing under the subject of "Suspensions" indicating t h a t a trial was held and the defendant given an opportunity for a hearing. The follo'winp^ no Houbt will hp interesting to our readers: Several times diirinff f.ho yen.r. X ha.ve H?.d c?.ll6d to my attention cases where lodges felt that they were being injured by the existence in their midsts of chronic black-ballers. This is a condition which constantly bobs up to vex officers, b u t is a question which must be handled with a great deal of care if. we expect to accomplish more good than harm. A brother's right to cast a ballot as his judgment dictates must not in any circumstances be questioned nor attempts be made to discover who is doing the rejecting. I have nothing but contempt for anyone who misuses his privileges of the ballot, either with unwarranted black-balling or undue leniency in failing to reject a t the proper time, but t h e secrecy of the ballot must above all things be kept . inviolate. In each individual case coming to my notice, I have counseled the utmost tact and diplomacy in handling the matter and I think generally that the difficulties soon clear away and that time and patience accomplish much more than precipitate action. Their efficient and courteous Grand Secretary, Brother WALTER Lu STOCKWELL, presents another of his interesting and complete reports, from which we take pleasure in quoting the following: I t is a satisfaction to present this report and be able to report that North Dakota Masonry is still moving forward not only in membership but also in Masonic spirit. Many another Grand Lodge reports losses in membership. We have been interested In the life and progress of this Grand Lodge considerably over thirty years and it is oin- well considered judgment that we could not have met the difficult and adverse conditions through which this State has passed diu-lng the last decade, had we not maintained a close organization and presented to the Graft a real program of Masonic Service and Education. We have some knowledge of whau is going on in other grand jurisdictions and
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CORBESPONDENCE—NOVA
SCOTIA.
299
we are firmly convinced it is only as we adapt our Masonry to the needs of the present day and adjust our program to changed and constantly changing conditions will Masonry continue to he the factor in the lives of its votaries that it has been In the past. We cannot live on or in our glorious past. The test of to-day is what are you doing to make Freemasonry a living force in the conduct of Masons to-day. We believe we are answering that challenge in North Dakota in a very definite way. I t is a privilege to be associated with such an organization as the Grand Lodge of Masons of North Dakota and to have had a part even in a small way in so great and glorious an undertaking When we consider that we are only entering our foriieth year, we readily ap.predate the fact that as an institution we are young. We are grateful for the confidence reposed in all the years that have gone. We look forward with high hopes of greater things yet to be. A splendid Report on Correspondence was prepared by Brother GEORGE HOVEY PHELPS, who during the year laid down the working tools of life and responded to the call of the Master. Brother PHELPS will be greatly missed from our Round Table as his reviews were always interesting and wherever comment was made it was done in a kind and brotherly manner. Farewell and peace to his ashes. HERBERT A. MBRRIPIBLD, M.-. W.". Grand Master, Hankinson, WALTER L . STOCKWELL, R . \ W.". Grand Secretary, Fargo. WALTER H . MURFIN, P.-. G.-. M.'., Correspondent, Fargo. Next Annual, Grand Forks, June 18, 1928, (We venture a guess that Brother STOCKWELL "slipped a c o g " on. his year date.)
NOVA SCOTIA —1928. Lodges, 81; members, 9,820; net gain, Halifax, June 13, 1928. JOHN C . MACKAY, M . - . W.-. Grand Master. Brother J. G. MITCHELL, our Grand Representative, was present. The usual sermon was delivered by their Grand Chaplain, Brother G. E. WHIDDEN, and from it we take pleasure in quoting the following: In the building of KING SOLOMON'S Temple, the stones were quarriedl away up in the mountains, and each stone was chipped and hewn and fully prepared for its place in the temple structure before it was borne thither. And in symbolic reference we are taught that the same is true of GOD'S greater temple. " T h e house not made with hands eternal in the heavens." GOD'S providential dealings with his people are but the chipping, hewing processes by means of which He fits for their respective places. The world is but the quarry where the stones are prepared for the temple in the heavens or to express it in Masonic language. As t h e rough Ashlar is taken from the quarry and prepared by the tools of the workman for its place in the temple structure, so are we to make diligent use of the shaping tools and moulding agencies. "As the Operative Mason erects his temporal building in accordance with the designs laid down upon the trestle-board by the Master workman, so should we, both operative and speculative Masons, endeavor to erect our spiritual
300
CORRESPONDENCE—NOVA
SCOTIA.
February,
building in accordance with the designs laid down by the Supreme Architect of the universe in the great book of Nature and of revelation which Is our moral, spiritual and Masonic trestle-board." All the tools of Masonry as they have been presented to us from time to time in the various degrees, with the nobler purposes for which we, as speculative Masons, are taught to make use of them, are intended to impress upon the mind and heart, the importance of so circumscribing our desires, so adjusting ourselves in our relation to others, and so regulating our conduct, that our lives both public and private shall harmonize in the fullest possible measure with the purpose and plan of our great Creator, and so that eventually, when our race on earth is run we, may be presented before the great white throne "with minds and conscience divested of all the vices and superfluities of life" and our bodies fltted thereby, " a s living stones for that spiritual building, that •house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens." ^;. For this purpose we are exhorted to cultivate the upward look; to make sure that the foundations are being laid and the superstructure reared, in accordance with the pattern or the designs laid down upon our trestle-hoard. Rev. F. W. BoREHAM in an address given lately in the City Temple, threw out a challenging thought when he said " T h e man who limits Ws thought of himself to six feet of flesh and blood, will live a six feet life, and be put in the end in a six feet grave. Man was made in the image of GOD and everything is microscopically small in comparison with him. Man was made to pass from triumph to triumph, from achievement to achievement. He must realize that the true standard of altitude is himself. But side by side with that there is something higher. He ^vill inevitably love the balance of things unless on the one hand he looks down on inanimate things and on the other sees that there is something inflnitely beyond and infinitely above him." I do not know whether Mr. BoBEHAM is a Mason or not, but that is Masonry.
We note nine pages are necessary to rernrH the official visits made by the Grand Master during the year, indicating that he was interested in his work, and no doubt this service was of great value to t h e lodges. Under "Lotteries" he had the following to say: I was asked to offlelally sanction a scheme to raise a large sum of money, by means of a Canada-wide lottery, for the purpose of erecting a Masonic building. The suggestion was to distribute tickets at one dollar each among the Craft all over Canada,—the inducement to purchase same being the chance of drawing a big cash prize (or prizes). The absurdity of the proposal must be apparent to any one professing Masonic education or principles. I t Is worthy of note, only because it reveals and illustrates an unwholesome trend of thought, inspired and fostered I believe by the knowledge that heretofore lesser infractions of our Country's laws covering such procediu-e, have been overlooked by the civil authorities, and that our own fraternity has not been wholly without blame in this connection. I wish to emphasize our duty as Freemasons and as citizens to maintain, obey and support our own code of ethics, as well as the laws of thfe Land In which we live. The Freemasons of this Jurisdiction are not ignorant of these laws as concerning lotteries, and I submit that this Sovereign Grand Body shoiild not regard with indifference or toleration any violation of them, under Masonic Auspices.
The above is quoted for no other purpose than emphasizing the position taken by the writer that without an enforcement of strict
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SCOTIA.
301
regulations in a short time the Ancient Landmarks and Charges of the Fraternity will be trampled under foot. It is hard to conceive of a lodge so far forgetting the underlying principles of our time honored institution as to take part in a common lottery, or gambling games of the day. Under "S.tate of the Craft" we quote the following: We rejoice in this fact; and are encouraged to hope that the salutary influeiices of our order may continue increasingly to strengthen the hands and further the aims of those who desire and strive to promote good citizenship. It is to be regretted however that so many of our members fail to appreciate even the fundamental principles inculcated a t initiation. To know enough of the mysteries to prove that they have received the degrees and proudly to display the emblems thereof seems to be the chief Masonic end of many who could and should, both passively and actively, render valuable service and enhance our usefulness. This lack of serious thought and interest is manifest in many of our Lodges where the average attendance at nieetings is woefully small in proportion to the resident membership. Habitual absentees are too often- in the majority—entirely forgetting or ignoring their duty in this connection and permitting or rather compelling the faithful few to perform the work in which all should share. This is an unhealthy condition, and reference to it here I regard as an unpleasant duty, and one that involves the propriety of suggesting a remedy. Well I do not know that there is any speciflc unfailing cure for this evil; but I am reasonably sure that good results can be procured, and much improvement achieved through sincere, consistent and intelligent effort on the part of all our Worshipful masters their ofBcers and co-workers to raise still higher the Standard of Masonic education in our Lodges; and also remembering that " a little fun just now and then is relished by the best of m e n " to encourage and stimulate the social side of our activities; by making the Lodge and Its affairs really attractive to all through an occasional departure from routine to the realm of play. W e q u o t e t h e following from his conclusion: With added enlightenment we shall more clearly discern, both individually and collectively our duties as Craftsmen and as Citizens; and by the faithful discharge of those duties we will fulfil the design of the Masonic Institution, and earn for ourselves the approbation of conscience and the right to aspire to communion with those who measure up to t h e rigid test of true manliness :—• " T o talk with crowds and keep our virtue, or walk with Kings—nor lose the Common.touch." The following is a part of the report of their Committee on Jurisprudence, which indicates that the brethren of Nova Scotia have the right ideas in the matter of extending fraternal recognition to other so-called Grand Lodges, and the suggestion to take advantage of the wise counsel of M.". W.\ Brother S. NELSON SAWYER of New York is a good one: Under above circumstances, and while most desirous of doing justice to all concerned, and with every respect to the applying Grand Bodies, your Board feels that no injustice will be done any of these Grand Bodies by delaying action until the next regular Communication of tMs Grand Lodge. In the meantime we suggest that the Grand Secretary communicate with
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CORRESPONDENCE—NOVA
SCOTIA.
February.
each of these Grand Bodies asking for recognition, for a statement (a) of their Masonic standing arid history and how long their Grand Lodge has been in existence, (b) if there is any more than one Masonic Grand Lodge or Grand Orient existing in their territory and if so the names of these difrerent Organizations, (c) how many Subordinate Lodges are in the Jurisdiction and if all these are under the Jurisdiction of the applying Grand Lodge, and if not how many, together witli a complete list of all Sovereign Grand Lodges which have recognized each of these respective Grand Bodies with the datfes of recognition and if the same is still outstanding. As a further safeguard your Board would also suggest t h a t the Grand Secretary communicate with M .•. \V.'. Bro. S. NELSON SAWYER who is a Justice of the Supreme Court a t Palmyra, a very distinguished Mason and a Brother who has taken a very active interest in the matter of recognizing Foreign Grand Lodges, and until this information is forthcoming, your Board recommends that further action on all these requests be deferred. The writer in dealing with this question has applied to .Tndge SAWYER a number of times and always received valuable advice. We also quote from the report of the Committee on Jurisprudence the following: Recently it has come to the notice of your board that some of our Lodges advertise, or allow t o be advertised, apparently as a matter of news, such matters as the names of Candidates who have been initiated Into our Order. Now, wliile there does not appear to be any valid objection to advertise the holding of the meetings of subordinate lodges, your Board unhesitatingly states that what is to take place, or what does actually take place at these meetings shall not, under any circumstances, be published or made puulic iu any way, nor the names of the persons joining the Lodges, or taking degrees therein. While many persons believe it to be an honor to join and become members of a Masonic Lodge there are many of those who do not wish this information published broadcast over the Province, and this being most Improper and un-Masonic should be stopped. Your Board would, therefore, recommend that iu future if advertisements of any kind are to be resorted to they be solely in accordance with Section 41, Chapter 18 of the Constitution of the Grand Lodge of Nova Scotia and tmder no circumstances contain any reference whatever as to what occurred in the respective lodges, or the names of the persons joining the same. The Report on Correspondence was submitted by Brother JAMES C. JONES, their Grand Secretary, and in it we find a review of our 1928 Proceedings. He refers to the writer quoting liberally from the sermon delivered before their Grand Lodge at their last Annual Communication, which comment prompts the writer to say t h a t the subject of "quoting liberally" is covered in the preface to this report. JOHN C . MACKAY, M . - . W.-. Grand Master, Sydney. JAMES C . JONES, R.-. W . \ Grand Secretary and Correspondent, Halifax. Next Annual, Sydney.
(No date given.)
1928-29.
COBBESPONDBNCE—OHIO.
303
OHIO-1927. Lodges, 608; members, 202,125; net gain, 3,860. Springfield, October 19, 1927. CHARLES L . MINOR, M . - . W . ' . Grand Master. Kansas, having as its Grand Representative, the sitting Grand Master, Brother CHARLES L . MINOR, it is unnecessary to report t h a t he was present. An address of welcome was extended by Past Grand Master M.". W.'. Brother HARRY S. KISSELL, and from his remarks we quote the following: Do you know, my Brethren, that there are over forty thousand visitors who go to that Masonic Home every year? I t averages about SCO a week. I could not believe it until I had the figures checked up. Just think of the vast stream of people that are brought to that Masonic Home every year to look over the work that you are doing. And it is your duty to go out there this afternoon and thoroughly inspect that Home and report back to the stockholders of that Home whom you represent its condition and the things that are being done there. You are the representative of those who make that Home possible. We hope you will make it your duty to thoroughly investigate and inspect everything there and go back and make an enthusiastic report to your Brethren. The response was made by their Past Grand Master M.'. W.\ Brother NELSON WILLIAMS, and from it we take pleasure in quoting the following: But, fortunately, it does not require much preparation to respond to the addresses of welcome which are usually extended to our Grand Lodge, or in fact any other Grand Body of Masons in Ohio. We know that we are welcome wherever we go, and we know especially that we are welcome in Springfield, and particularly on this occasion. This great Brotherhood of ours should be welcome in any city in our fair laud, because we carry to the places where we are meeting not only the brotherhood to which reference has been made, but we carry a very high morale—I think, as high as any fraternal organization in the world. So It is reasonable to expect that addresses of welcome would be extended to us, and that they would be sincere and come from the heart. This great Brotherhood of ours, this great Fraternity of ours, needs no introduction any place in this wide world. Our tenets are known, our principles are known, and our purposes are known. We come to you to-day. Brethren, just as we have come to you before, and just as we will come to you in the future, bearing upon our banners this word "Brotherhood," these words "Universal Brotherhood." The very soul of Freemasonry; that which characterizes Freemasonry and distinguishes it, in my judgment, from every other fraternal organization on earth; that which is essentially Masonic; that without which Freemasonry could not for one moment exist; this spirit of brotherhood to which I refer and to which one of the speakers has already referred. The preface to the Grand Master's address surrounds a small halftone of M.'. W.'. Brother MINOR.
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The Grand Master has but Httle to offer in opening the address other than to refer to the conditions of the Craft in general in their jurisdiction, and admitting t h a t it is a part of his duty to give an account of his stewardship. Under the subject of "Masonic Education" he had the following to say, which we trust met with the approval of the Craft in t h a t state: Every Mason realizes that we are spending more time adding names to ovir membership lists than we are to inculcating the principles of Masonry In those already raised. I t has been the Grand Master's endeavor this year to start a campaign of education in the various Lodges by requesting t h a t they have at, least three such meetings during the year. A number of the Lodges have had most excellent programs for a number of years, and have reported a markedly increased interest in these meetings each successive season. I believe some general outline, to be modified to meet the needs of the various Lodges, should be worked out and presented. The Grand Historian this year has worked very assiduously toward compiling and classifying the various publications on Masonry, including the monthly and weekly magazines and papers. This list, with his recommendations, should be available for such Lodges as request it. Masters' and Wardens' Associations that have been developed in the cities, or counties, or union of counties, have been decidedly helpful and should be encouraged. I would recommend that some plan of Masonic education be developed and promulgated among the various Lodges. U n d e r t h e h e a d of " D u e s R e c e i p t s " t h e G r a n d S e c r e t a r y m a d e t h e following report: The experience in getting the uniform dues receipts printed and distributed was very interesting and highly instructive on account of the diversity of methods disclosed in t h e handling of dues. I t developed that there was an utter lack of uniformity in the collection of dues, and the necessity for some such system was convincing. I t was found that dues were payable almost every month of the year. One Secretary was collecting on the installment plan, accepting as small a sum as ten cents from month to month until the entire amount of the dues had been paid. Some Secretaries were collecting dues a year or more in advance, contrary t o their By-laws as well as our Code. The establishment of the system involved a tremendous amount of correspondence, as might be expected from such a radical change. There were some few protests and a possible few irreconcilable, but on the whole the very great majority of our Secretaries approved highly of the change and were gracious in their willingness to adapt themselves to whatever the changed conditions involved. Having passed through a similar experience in our own Grand Jurisdiction many years ago we fully appreciate the report of the Grand Secretary on this subject. At this Communication the Grand Lodge performed the ceremony of laying the corner-stone of the children's building at their Ohio
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Masonic H o m e , a n d from t h e address delivered b y M.'. W.'. B r o t h e r C H A R L E S J. P R E T Z M A N we t a k e pleasure in q u o t i n g t h e following: To the Masonic Antiquarian the old minutes of our Blue Lodges are the most interesting of all possible studies. If anyone will go through rhose old pages, where the ink is almost faded out, he will see a faithful reflection of the times in which they were written, and especially of those severe problems which confronted' our Masonic fathers. And across the pages of those old records there is no more pathetic thing than the struggle of those Lodges to take care.of the aged Mason, his widow and his orphan. The lack of means, the lack of organization, seemed to make it an impossible task. And we must look back with sympathy on those men and the apparent hopelessness of their struggle. But, my Brothers, those men carried on. They kept up that spirit of helping their aged, their widows, and their orphans, and that struggle culminated at last, as Brother LEVI GOODALK has told you, in this magnificent monument to the charity and the providence of the Masons of Ohio. Old age and childhood! Those are two of the most important ages in our lives. GOD has seen lit to send with the child that smile which will win for it care and attention in any society. But who shall portray the tragedy of old age—the halting step, the broken skin, and the dimmed eye? It seems to me it would have been better for Providence to throw some charm around old age even than childhood. Now, as I said, these magnillcent buildings are the concrete examples of our charity. I want you all to understand that this is the very best life insurance that any one of you men has. It is twice blest. If you give to it and never need to call on it for help, you are blessed because you give. And If you fall In the struggle of life and you and your family need this place, it Is again a blessing to you. I t is gratifying to us to think that these great buildings will stand here long after we are dead and dust; long after every man, even these boys here within the sound of my voice, are not only dead, but not even remembered. It is like everything in Masonry. It is permanent. It endures. We Masons build not only for the age, but for all time. F r o m t h e r e p o r t of t h e C o m m i t t e e on Necrology we t a k e t h e following: Man is not complete until he recognizes and enjoys the obligations of friendship. His Maker has created him with an insatiable hunger for human association. These brothers of otirs have recognized this high obligation and this natural longing and have associated themselves with their fellows and brothers in order that, together, they might build a better brotherhood for the progress of mankind and the honor of Masonry. By dint of hard work they passed from the first degree to one degree after another, until they were honored by being given rank in the Grand Lodge. Others serving in more humble capacity gave themselves, through their obligations of friendship and brotherhood, to the more obscure tasks, yet we believe all did faithful work for the interest of a higher manhood and better citizenship. |<'4^In calling to mind these illustrious brothers, we rededicate ourselves, not only to the ideals of our Order, but also to the highest manhood that is possible among men, hoping that when we shall have completed this life, we shall have gone with as fine a record behind us as these brothers who have preceded us in the past.
Through the report of the Committee on Jurisprudence the Grand Lodge at its next Annual Communication is to give consideration to the question of organizations requiring Masonic affiliation. The
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writer ventures a guess, from the tone of the report of the Committee, that these conditions will not be greatly improved if their report is adopted. We notice the report of the Committee on Jurisprudence also contains a recommendation that a proposition looking toward a national uniform receipt for dues was inadvisable, and the matter therefore no doubt was dropped. We are pleased to note this action on the part of the Grand Lodge of Ohio, as it certainly would not have met with the approval of the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire, a Grand Lodge with which the Grand Lodge of Kansas is not in fraternal relations. Of course if the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire were permitted to dictate the proposed form of receipt and the legislation in connection therewith we doubt not they would be willing to concede to the proposition. M.". W.'. Brother 0 . P. SPEREA presented his eighth Annual Review of other Proceedings and Kansas is grateful t o him for a liberal report on our 1927 Proceedings. B. FRANK THOMAS, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Youngstown. HARRY S . JOHNSON, R . \ W . ' . Grand Secretary, Cincinnati. 0 . P. SPERRA, P . ' . G . ' . M . ' . , Correspondent, Ravenna.
Next Annual, Columbus, October 17, 1928.
OKLAHOMA —1928. Lodges, 437; members, 72,687; net gain, 1,685. Oklahoma City, February 14, 1928.
EARLE C . FLESHBR, M . - . W.:
Grand Master. Brother MAHLON F . MANVILLE, our Grand Representative, was
present. Preliminary to the exercises, the Grand Master was presented with an emblematic apron as a token of respect from the brethren in his jurisdiction. In entering the membership of this jurisdiction in our statistical tables it is largely a matter of guess work as the Proceedings are absolutely void of any statistics whatever and we often wonder how Brother ANDERSON gets along without any record of membership. We have the highest regard for this distinguished brother, but we are fearful that he is neglecting one of the most important features in connection with his office and the absence of statistical tables from the permanent records will be a source of regret in years to come to the brethren of Oklahoma. From the preface to the Grand Master's address we quote the following: There are many corrective agencies at worlc in the world today. To these we bid " G O D speed". Other agencies there are, however, that strike a t the
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very roots of our society, our religion and our highly prized democracy. One 'has only to read the daily press and current magazines to know that these activities, unless checked, wlU sound the death knell to our civilization. Decreasing respect for the marriage vows is everywhere apparent, proved by even a casual examination of the divorce records. The recent innovation known as companionate marriage is directly contrary to our family life. I t is alarming to realize that atheism has actually penetrated our colleges and universities. Many students in these schools have banded themselves together and openly expressed their disbelief in that Holy Book that rests upon the altar of every lawful assembly of Free and Accepted Masons. To counteract these forces we need as never before an awakened conscience expressing itself through the stabilizing and sobering influences of Masonry, and deeper realization of the tremendous value of the Great Light of Freemasonry which Is the foundation of clviUzation. It teaches men how to live. It also teaches men how to die, and presents the hope of that immortal life which is the burning desire of every Masonic heart, because we all look forward to chat stage of existence which we hope to attain and enjoy to its fullness, "where no discordant voice shall be heard, but all the sotil shall experience shall be perfect praise, and love Divine shall ennoble every heart, and hosannas exalted employ every tongue."
Under the head of "Special Dispensations" he had the following to say: In my judgment the welfare of Masonry will be best served, the interest of the candidate promoted and the dignity of Masonry will be preserved, if we do not make our laws, regulations and customs flexible to the personal favor or desire of the candidate, or of the lodge. There should be a real emergency existing, and not a merely imaginary one. For the last few years Masonry has been at a low ebb, and there may be many contributing causes for this; but most of the leaders of Masonry are agreed that the inactivity of a large number of the individual Masons, in things Masonic, is caused by the innumerable dispensations that have been issued in the past, and the brethren have not been adequately instructed and educated in the principles of Masonry and therefore were not sufficiently prepared to carry out the aims and purposes of •our fraternity and many of them have become drones in the hive of Masonry. I a m informed by the officers of several lodges that a large number of these brethren have been suspended for non-payment of dues. Therefore, feeling that the best interest of Masonry would be served, I have issued only four dispensations to confer degrees out of time.
A brief reference is made to their Masonic Home, and from it we •quote the following: The Children's Home also, is in splendid condition. Brother and Mrs. "WHITE deserve a great deal of credit for instilling into the lives of the children those higher things of life. Brother WHITE informs me that nearly every child that is old enough has united with the church of its choice. This speaks well for the training our children are getting in the home. There can be no doubt about the constructive work Masonry is doing in Oklahoma in taking these unfortunate chlldi'en and developing them into useful and upright citizens. Every Mason in our Grand Jurisdiction can point with pride to this splendid work. Yet, we are not doing enough or what we should do. Under the rules the boys and girls are dismissed from the Home when they attain the age of eighteen years. Frequently it is the case that the boys and girls upon being dismissed from the Home are unable to find work which will pay them even a living wage, and yet perhaps on some of these the Grand Lodge has invested S2000.00 or more. Brother W H I T E does every thing he can to secure them positions. He finds it
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impossible to do so in many cases, and some of our boys who have been dismissed from the Home are out of work at this time. Others are working in some of the larger cities of the state for wages on which they can not decently live. The Oklahoma Grand Chapter, O. E. S., through its representative, Mrs. M. ALICE MILLER, has done a praiseworthy work in providing some of our children with professional instruction, the better fitting them for life's work.
Under the head of " T h e Necessity of Strict Adherence to t h e Old Charges in all Matters Political or Religious", he had the following to say: We are taught from the beginning of Masonry that a lodge should never discuss matters of a religious or political nature. The old charges respecting: the behaviour of Masons have always been a safe guide, and the Injunction that " W e are resolved against all politics as what never yet conduced to the welfare of a lodge, nor ever will," is a charge which must not be infringed. I s-m not unmincliul of Ihe right of the individual Mason, however, and it is only just and proper that he should as an individual citizen, inteUigently interest himself in all matters of a political nature, toward the development and advancement of good government, and Masonry approves and endorses this doctrine. Masonry does not take, or attempt to take this privilege away from its members, but encourages and moreover urges its intelligent exercise. However, no member of our fraternity has the right to use his Masonic influence for political aggrandizement, and no Masonic lodge as an organization should ever consider or ever permit the introduction of any political matter whatsoever into its meetings. The membership of Masonry is composed of men of every political faith, and they differ in opinion the same as other men,, and if we should permit the injection of political ma,ttp.r.<5 into our lodge meetings,, it would cause strife between Masons, contention in our lodges, bring Masonry into disrepute, and would reduee our Masuuiu lodges to nothing more tnan agencies to be used by poUtlcians, and the structure of Masonry would be but a mass of ruins within a very short time.
From his conclusion we take the following: Finally, m y Brethren:—Never before in history has there been such a temptation to forget our ideals as now. We know that this is a materiaUsticage. In the storm and stress of the demands of every day, it is very hard totake time to cultivate the fine ART of living,—to live aright. We know that making money has its place in the natural scheme of things, but where should that place be? Should it be a means, or an end? I am tempted to admonish and to urge you to put first things first, and yet I wonder if we are really trying to do our .best. I t is hard to run counter to the tendencies of an age, but that is the challenge to Masonry. Do you believe in our high ideals enough to live them? Let us inculcate in our children a genuine love of GOD, of country, and of the beauties of nature. Let us insist that the spiritual and moral side of education be placed first,— in its proper place: and if we as Masons really beUeve in our ideals enough to Uve them, we are assisting civihzation in the most potent way,—by force of example. "For yesterday is but a dream. And tomorrow is but a vision: But today Well lived, makes every yesterday A dream of happiness. And every tomorrow a vision of hope."
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A communication was read to the Grand Lodge from their venerable Past Grand Secretary " F a t h e r " MuRROW, and we take pleasure in quoting the last two paragraphs: The plan of salvation is very simple and very effective. I t is recorded perfectly and completely in our Great Light that lies on the Altar. I t is suiHcient to save the whole world. Our Lord's atonement on the cross for sin wiped out the great sin of ADAM completely. I t is no longer held against us. GOD is now reconciled to man so far as ADAM'S sin is concerned. That is why every child who has not arrived at the age of accountability is saved in Heaven. We are now accountable to GOD for our personal sins only. Romans flrst and second chapters tell us that ALL, every person, is guilty. " T h e r e is none that doeth good, no, NOT ONE." For salvation through CHRIST there must be the most sincere reality of the head, FAITH, mind, will; and also of the heart, love, adoration, worship. There must be " n o equivocation, or self-evasion of mind and heart whatsoever." •—This is all that is required of every one seeking salvation. CHRIST has done all the rest. The Holy Spirit guides and perfects. GOD justifies and accepts the saved as His child forever and forever.
Prom the report of the Committee on Necrology we take the following: While " d e a t h is a theme not lightly to be broached by those who are subject to its power, ' yet to us as aspiring Masons its coming is as the opening of a door to a greater kingdom, a realm free from the physical fetters that bind us here. There shall the unrealized visions of this world become actualities, the hopes and aspirations that perished miserably among the cares of earth be achieved, the noble purposes that shrivelled before the blast of the demagogue and the blaze of selfishness, bloom into fruition. How often have we seen youth come forth in the beauty of strength and boldly front the world, the flesh and the devil, glorying in his opportunity t o shield the weak, counsel the ignorant and aid the oppressed, only to see that strength sapped and the bold spirit cowed under t h e assaults of sefishness, his noble plans and purposes scorned and distorted through malice and greed, every noble motive impunged, every lofty action misconstrued, and his years of altruistic effort and self-denial ascribed to sinister and selfish purposes. What would it be if these noble sovds could step forth into a world where mahce, envy and lies are unknown: where gold and silver are of the earth, earthly; and lust of power and preferment are always alien, and where love is the talisman and unselfishness the open sesame to Heaven's glories? A glimpse through the sable curtain has been vouchsafed us and we can go forward, pressing coward the mark of our high caUing, confident that the divine spark that smouldered here amid the ashes of disappointment, shall there burst into eflulgent flame. The galling chains of human frailty and weakness, the crippling ailments of these poor bodies of flesh, the force of circumstance and the alien powers of ignorance will be no more. No longer shall we strive in vain to pierce the gloom of prejudice and supersticion.
The Report on Correspondence was again submitted by Brother THOMAS CHAUNCBY HUMPHRY, and as usual he includes an interesting
review of our 1927 Proceedings, and also a kindly personal reference to the writer. WILLIAM MARK SEXSON, M.-. W . ' . Grand Master, McAlester. WILLIAM M . ANDERSON, R . ' . W.". Grand Secretary, Guthrie. THOMAS CHAUNCEY HUMPHRY, P.'. G.-. M.'., Correspondent,
Hugo. Next Annual, Guthrie, February 12, 1929.
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. CORRESPONDENCE—OREGON.
February
OREGON—1927. Lodges, 167; members, 29,783; net gain, 814. Portland, June 15, 1927. EDGAR H . SENSBNICH, M . - . W . - . Grand From the Grand Master's address which with the oration, precedes the journal of Proceedings, we take pleasure in quoting the following: Illness prevented me from assuming actively the duties of my office for practically the first quarter of my term as your Grand Master, and for the remainder of my term, the effects of that illness have .been a serious deterrent to my efforts t o make up for lost time. However, I have had sufficient opportunity during t h e past year to learn that the office of Grand Master of The Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Oregon is not only crowded with responsibility but is filled with opportunities to render service in the advancement of our fraternity and in the development of those increasingly Important activities dedicated to the moral welfare of our members and more particularly to the social betterment of our less fortunate brethren and their dependents, and of those who have been left dependent by our brethren who have passed to the Great Beyond. Under " G r a n d Lodge Funerals" the Grand Master refers to the death of three Past Grand Masters, M.'. W.-. Brothers CHARLES E . WHARTON, BRENHAM V A N D U S E N and JAMES F . ROBINSON, the latter servin" as Grand Sccrctar" frcni 1895 to 1022. Under the head of "Honoring our Oldest Mason" we quote the following: Brother SCHETKY has been a member of Philadelphia Lodge, No. 2, F . & A. M., of Pennsylvania, for more than seventy-two years, having been raised February 22, 1855; and the event was a joint celebration of his birthday by t h a t lodge and Hood River Lodge, No. 105. Telephonic comruunication was established between these lodges, greetings exchanged between Pennsylvania and Oregon jurisdictions, and felicitations extended to Brother SCHETKY by his lodge and various ranking naval officers. Dozens of congratulatory telegrams were received by the captain, including messages from the chief of naval operations and from the President of the United States. During the evening many gifts from his own lodge and from the bretlireu of Hood Elver Lodge, who regard him as their own, were presented to this dean of all Masons. His timely and witty responses evidenced a mind so keen at one hundred that it would do credit to an able man of half his age. Kansas likewise has a member who was made a Mason in May, 1855, and was in attendance at our last Annual Communication and addressed the Grand Lodge. Under " H o m e Extension" and "Children at the H o m e " the Grand Master had the following to say: At this point may I say a word regarding the Home which is about filled to capacity. The home committee recently asked the Trustees for their approval of a plan to convert a portion of the basement of the administration or main building into rooms for occupants. The approval was withheld with the thought t h a t the question of further extension of the Home at this time should
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have the consideration of this Grand body—and prompt consideration is necessary. If additional applications for admission into the Home are made, the committee can do no more than decline them unless more quarters are provided or unless some other means are adopted for the relief of the applicants. Would it not be well for us to give at this time careful consideration to a poUcy adopted in several jurisdictions which encourages the aged man or woman who seeks the help and guardianship of the fraternity to remain in the environment to which he or she has been accustomed rather than accept lodgings in a new place under stricc and strange regulations and away from old ties such as home, friends and acquaintances. It would seem to me that encouragement of this sort backed with a reasonable financial allowance would not only relieve the Home of the necessity for providing quarters for many applicants but would also contribute very greatly to their physical, mental and social betterment. I have always felt the admission of children into the Masonic and Eastern Star Home was a mistake and my convictions in that connection become firmer every day. Not only is the environment of the Home undesirable for the rearing of children but every acceptance of the care of a child by this Grand Lodge is the acceptance of a responsibility the end whereof we knoweth not, and worse yet, to which too few give any intelligent consideration. I had hoped the declaration of a child welfare policy adopted so overwhelmingly at last year's Session would insure during my term of office the placing in private homes of at least some of the children now at the Home but my hopes have not been realized. In this connection, we may have at this Session a report from the child welfare committee. May I say in making that statement I cast no reflection on the Home Committee nor on the Child Welfare Committee. Both of them are working out a plan which will carry out the policy which you adopted last year, but it is not an easy problem to work out satisfactorily such plan.
The Grand Lodge approved of the recommendation of the Grand Master of caring for applicants at the Home wherever possible in their local communities, but disapproved of his recommendation for further extension or additions to the Home buildings. Under "Masonic Clubs" he had the following to say: The directors of the Portland Masonic Club, a club organized about fifteen years ago and, which, with a membership of approximately 12,000 members, claims to be the largest Masonic Club in the world, have addressed a communication to me in which they state their desire " t o extend the scope of the club so that it will Include in its membership all members of the craft in the State or Oregon; in other words, to create a State Masonic Club." " T h a t with but small added expense the club can be extended to include all members of the craft in Oregon," and asking, " t h a t the Grand Lodge of the State of Oregon give the fullest consideration to our ambition and render to us financial, assistance commensiirate with the value to Masonry that our club will be able to render." I respectfully suggest that this matter be first referred to the finance committee for consideration and ad%-ice and that the committee give the club directorship an opportunity to present to them its plans and needs.
Under the subject of " When is a Man a Mason " the Grand Master had the following to say: Under an interpretation of these sections no brother is entitled to a certificate of membership, nor is he entitled to sign the by-laws of his lodge until after he has passed satisfactorily an examination in the lecture of the third degree. These sections which raise the question "When is a man a Mason?" are not popular with the craft, and in the opinion of many are in direct conflict with the fourteenth land mark. The provisions of these sections may be
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beautiful in theory but in practice they are a nuisance and should be amended in comformity with the true spirit of Masonry. Everywhere I have gone through this jurisdiction I have had complaint about those sections. I t Is surprising, brethren, how many Masons, how many brethren who have been raised to be Masons in this jurisdiction who have not signed the by-laws of their lodge and do not carry certificates of membership. I was surpn.sed the other day when one brother told me in his lodge they had 24 who had thus far failed to sign the by-laws and when speaking about it to another brother last night he told me that was nothing, that in his lodge they had 40 such brethren. I want to tell you, brethren, that when these brethren get out of your lodge after you have raised them it is not an easy task to get them back to sign the by-laws and secure their certificate of membership. I know, that everytUng that was right prompted the brethren who provided this amendment to the constitution but I don't believe that it is working. I t is causing a great deal of confusion. I t is causing confusion in connection with visitation, in connection with voting in lodge, and has also made it possible for us to send Masuns ouu of tliis stato who think they are Masons b u t who do not carry proper credentials. Time and time again the Grand Master is asked to give a dispensation to allow a brother to receive the third degree out of time in order that he may leave suddenly, or that he may join the army or go into the navy and what good is that dispensation if we raise him and send him out of the state without the credentials wliich will enable him to prove that he is a Mason. I hope this section of the Code will be amended. The committee to whom this subject was referred approved of his suggestions and recommended an amendment to their laws providing t h a t after each brother is raised he be furnished m t h a certificate, under the seal of the lodge and attested by the Grand Secretary, that he is a member of such lodge in good standing, and thai- he be presented with a copy of the Masonic Code. The Grand Master proposes a revision of the Ancient Ceremonies of the Order and a special committee was appointed for the purpose, to report one year hence. This no doubt is one of the more modern ideas of destroying the old ancient language and customs concerning the beautiful practices in carrying out our ceremonies. Our Grand Representative, Brother W. O. HAINES, was in attendance. A proper eulogy for their Grand Secretary, M.'. W.". Brother JAMES FULLERTON ROBINSON, was presented at this Communication, as well as others relating to Past Grand Masters WOLVERTON and VANDUSEN.
Brother DAVID J. FERGUSON delivered an interesting address from which we take pleasure in quoting the following: Another of the great ideals within the spirit of Masonry is the essential belief that after all, the human soul lives on, or, the immortality of the human soul. Here again is one of the great thoughts that all the minds of earth have grappled with. Six thousand years ago on the plains of Egypt, the Idumeau Emirs grappled with the question, " If a man die. will he live again? " and from the cime the wild man buried his axe with his departed friend, until the time of the great mausoleums on earth to the spirits of the departed, the human race has always insisted that the human soul lives on. We have discovered
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313.
that this is merely a function of clay, that this particular thing we call the human organism is, after all, only a place wherein there grows and develops what we call the human spirit. Then, enlarging itself, it becomes a part and parcel of human society, but not as that organization, but as a spirit and as a soul, and right here, in everyone around us, we recognize that particular form. Well, you say, you can't prove it. In revealed religion, we believe that we do. You understand the meaning of the mystery of the lost word, we grasp its end. We found-that belief in the Idea and the ideal, that the mighty achievements of the soul will live on. I never saw JOHN MILTON, but I have read his poetry. I never saw ABEAHAM LINCOLN, but I have read his Gettysburg address. I " never saw MOSES, but I have read the Ten Commandments. I never saw SHAKESPEARE, but I have read King Lear, and I know that their souls live on in an ever growing grandem-. What proof have we? The cynic says they never come back. Nothing in nature ever comes back. When a star bursts out and disappears in the midst of the universe, it is no more. When the rose blooms, it disappears and is no more. How would it be if the bloom folded itself up and went back into the seed, or the human went back into that particular spore that gave it life? That is not in the nature of things; it is not a possible thing. And so with the human being when it drops its shell. You will understand the difference between a transmissive function and a creative function. When you are unconscious, either from sickness or by sleeping, if we come back to life, the soul is still there. It is restored like a flash of lightning to the shell, so this body is purely a transmissive function. Shall we give a more concrete illustration? That electric light there—you know there is a pole and cable behind it, carrying electrical energy to it, but the pole and cable are purely transmissive functions for that particular light. So the body is purely a transmissive function for the soul, and we believe in that lofty ideal of the immortality of the human soul. '
We note a resolution concerning -waiver of jurisdiction was "laid on the table". To the writer this is a new form of legislation. From the' Report on Necrology we are pleased to quote the following: '.; So now, brethren, is the doctrine of the immortality of the soul a reliable asset of our Masonic faith. '. During the last fifty years, I have ransacked well nigh all the nations and cults of the earth to see if I could find anything that was absolutely contradictory to the doctrine of immortality of the soul. The conclusion is that the soul is something distinct from the body and is able, from its nature, to exist without the body, therefore presumptive proof of its immortality. Again, our bodies by attrition are continually changing, so that every few years all the particles of matter composing our bodies have changed owners and entered into other compositions. Yet we know that our naental and spiritual identity has remained the same. Now, if the soul can put off the body gradually without destroying itself, it is demonstration that its existence is something distinct from the body and that it may put the body off all at once as in death, yet live on. The existence of the idea of immortality in the mind is evidence that the soul will live forever. Nearly all nations which now exist or have existed; have or did have, the idea of immortality. We see in it the apotheosis of both Greek and Roman, the legend of the Celt and Druid, hieroglyphics of Egypt, the altars of ancient Mexico, everywhere. Even our own Indians believed that far beyond the distant blue mountains, there Is an expanse of water full of laughing blooming islands with spacious hunting grounds where they will; go after death. ,
314
COBBESPONDENCE—OREGON.
February,
The Report on Correspondence was prepared by M/. W/. Brother DAVID P . MASON, and we are favored with a review of our 1926 Pro-
ceedings. ROBERT S . EAKIN, M . - . W . - . Grand Master, LaGrande.
D. RuFus CHENEY, R.-. W / . Grand Secretary, Portland. DAVID P . MASON, P.-. G.-. M.-., Correspondent, Albany.
Next Annual, Portland, June 13, 1928.
OREGON —1928. Lodges, 172; members, 30,286; net gain, 503. Portland, June 13, 1928.
ROBERT S. EAKIN, M.-. W.-. Grand
MJaster. Our Grand Lodge was represented a t this Annual Communication by Brother WILLIAM O . H A I N E S , our Grand Representative.
The Grand Master consumes b u t a little more than seven lines as a preface to his address and this consists in extending a welcome to the brethren and a statement that their relations with other jurisdictions are cordial and that peace and harmony prevails among the Craft. Under the head of "Necrology" he refers to the death of Rev. fifty-two years. We quote the following from the subject of " Masonic and Eastern Star H o m e " : The cost of maintaining the Home family presents a serious financial problem. A number of the lodges throughout the state are still in arrears In their quotas to the Home Fund. To those who have not yet paid in full, may 1 say, it is a Masonic duty which you owe both to the members of the Home, and to the lodges which have paid, to meet this obligation without further delay.
We quote the above because of the contrast between some of the lodges in that jurisdiction and our own as a whole. Since the establishment of our Home almost thirty-five years ago we have carried no delinquent lodges on our rolls for either the amount due the Home or that set aside for general expenses and other charities. We feel that the following under the subject of " Masonic Charity" will be interesting to our readers, and therefore we quote a part of it: I believe t h a t every constituent lodge in this Grand Jurisdiction should try to accumulate at least a small cash reserve for charitable piu'poses, and should hold such fund for emergencies, that when t h e occasion arises it may be able to render assistance to Its needy members and their dependents. If this can not be accomplished in any other way, I would recommend that the lodge dues be increased for this purpose.
1928-29.
CoBBESPONDBNCE—OREGON.
315
As we give of oiur material substance to assist those dependent upon us, let us not forget: 'TIs the human touch in this world that counts. The touch of your hand and mine. For it means much more to a sorrowing heart. Than shelter, or bread or wine; For shelter is gone when the night is over. And bread lasts only a day. But the touch of the hand and the sound of the voice. Live on in the soul, alway.
Under the head of "Misuse of Ballot" the Grand Master had the following to say: Several of the lodges have complained of the misuse of the ballot by one or more of their members, and have appealed to me to prescribe a remedy. I t is a matter of deep regret that any brother should have so little knowledge of the true spirit of Masonry, or should so lightly regard his obligations as a member of the order, that he will stoop to the act of rejecting without cause, one whom all others agree is proper Masonic material. Of course, it is not within the province of the Grand Master or any other person to dictate to a brother how he shall vote. It is in order, however, t o impress upon the minds of our members the fact that one of the foundation stones upon which our order rests is the cardinal virtue of Justice. The brothers should ever remember that one of the first lessons which Masonry tried toteach them was that: "Justice is the standard of right which enables us to render unto every man his just due, without distinction. This virtue is not only consistent with Divine and human law, but is the very cement and support of civil society, and, as justice in a great measure constitutes the really good man, so should it be theinvariable practice of every Mason never to deviate from the minutest principle thereof." Before preventing another from receiving and enjoying the rights and ben«flts incident to membership in our order, well might a brother turn to the Great Light of Masonry which is always open upon our altar and read: "Whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them."
Their Grand Lodge has a regulation making it necessary for each: brother, on receiving the Third Degree, to commit the lecture pertaining thereto, and failure to do so deprives him of his rights as a. member of the lodge. Touching that subject the Grand Master had the following to say: However, by reason of the action of this Grand Lodge, which I consider binding upon me, I was compelled to hold, against my wishes and contrary to my honest opinion, that a man should not wear the square and compasses until after he had passed the examination on the candidate's lecture. At another time, one day's mail brought the question from three widely separated pares of the state, in as many different forms. One of these inquiries was frona a lodge which stated that on the fifteenth day of the mouth it had conferred the M. M. on a candidate, and that on the thirtieth day of the same month, before this brother had an opportunity to be examined on the candidate's lecture, he was stricken by the hand of death. Keferring to this brother the lodge asked: " W h a t is his Masonic standing? Are his widow and children entitled to Masonic charity? Will his children be entitled to assistance from the Educational F u n d ? " As the law now stands (1927 Proceedings, page 231) the man in question was not a Master Mason at the time of his death.
:316
COBBESPONDENCE—OREGON.
February,
.• Numerous other cases t h a t haye come up for decision during the year might be cited, but let these suffice for illustration. Today we stand in an anomalous and embarrassing position by even having to report that the craft throughout the jurisdiction are continually asking such a question. ^ Brethren, with all t h e earnestness a t my command, I beg of you to give this matter your most serious consideration, and a t this session so to amend our law ohat in the future there can be no 'Question but- what a brother who has received the degree of a Master Mason in a just and regularly constituted lodge, will be entitled to have his body laid to rest with proper Masonic honors; t h a t the call of his widow for help will not go unanswered, and that his cliildren shall not be denied that assistance from our Educational Fund which will assure them a training in our public schools to wtilch they are entitled.
His recommendation was not adopted but was modified and in . order to place before our readers the final disposition of this portion •of the Grand Master's address we quote the following: By having regularly received the degree of Master Mason therein, and .signed its By-Laws, or as provided in Section 203, Subdivision 17; pro^aded, however, that all Master Masons raised prior to June 16, 1928, are hereby declared entitled to all the rights and privileges of Masonry, and all Master -Masons raised on and after June 16, 1928, are hereby declared entitled to •all the rights and privileges of Masonry immediately following such raising a n d for a period of six months thereafter, during which time they must prove joroflciency in t h e lecture of the Master Mason degree by examination in open lodge, and, failing t o do so, they shall be automatically denied the right of Jodge attendance, except for taking the examination, until such examination ,1s satisfactorily passed; and, provided further, that upon satisfactory proof •of ?!Cl*'npiss or ina-hility to SRCurft instninr.inTi or of nthnr mit.iga.ting circuTnsta.Tirp,.s. ithe Grand Master may extend for some definite period, the time within which •such examination must be passed before the penalty herein provided beuouies •operative. In all cases t h e Secretary of the lodge shall give such brother sixty <lays previous notice of t h e expiration of the six months or of the definite time fixed by the Grand Master, and of the penalty attached for failure to comply irlth the provisions of this section.
The Report on Correspondence was prepared by M.-. W.'. Brother DAVID P. MASON, in which is included a review of our 1928 Pro-
ceedings. Concerning the retirement of the writer of this report from the office of Grand Secretary he had the following to say: The outstanding event of this Communication was the resigning from •active duties as Grand Secretary of Brother ALBERT K . "VVILSON, for thirtyfour years Grand Secretary of this Grand Lodge. Those who have read his Correspondence Report year after year and Ills other reports to Grand Lodge can honestly say, "And still the wonder grew, how one small head could carry an he knew!" He was made Grand Secretary Emeritus on salary and asked to • prepare a history; of the craft in Kansas. We hope he will continue to prepare the Report on Correspondence. The present review is up to his usual high standard. With his experience, indefatigable diligence,, and great Masonic knowledge his writings are most valuable. R E X W . DAVIS, M . - . W . ' . Grand Master, baiem. D. RuFUS CHENEY, R.". W . ' . Grand Secretary, Portland. DAVID P . MASON, P.-. G.-. M.-., Correspondent, Albany.
Next Annual, Portland, June 12, 1929.
1928-29.
.
COBBESPONDENCE—PANAMA.
317
PANAMA —1928. Lodges, 8; members, 355; net gain, . The Proceedings contain the minutes of several Communications from May 10, 1927, to February 29, 1928. VICTOR JESUKUN, M.-. W.V Grand Master. These Proceedings are absolutely void of any membership statistics and we are therefore unable to report whether the membership in this jurisdiction is increasing or decreasing and what the general conditions are. We note that on the morning of January 10, 1928, the following address was delivered to Colonel Brother CHARLES A. LINDBERGH while on his Good Will mission on behalf of the United States: Your expected arrival among us, has been heralded for weeks, and your landing in this Republic yesterday, was the occasion for a spontaneous expression of admiration, for the Goodwill Ambassador of America, as you are known throughout the world. Ever since your inspiring hop across the Atlantic in your plane " T h e Spirit of St. Louis" the entire world has been anxious to see and know the "Lone Eagle." The sight of yoiu* lauding is an event, which those privileged to witness cannot ever forget and neither time or circumstances will efface from their memories. My duty and purpose on this occasion is a single one and pleasant. It is a duty, only in the sense that It has been assigned to me; in all else it is an honor and a pleasure. Today and the hour mark the opportunity, the Masons of Panama, have been planning for weeks to meet you and entertain you. We feel that this will be entirely too short. Speaking therefore in the names of the Masons of Panama and on their behalf, I bid you a most cordial and fraternal welcome to our city and to this, our Masonic Temple. "We give you our hands and with them our hearts and we earnestly and fraternally say " W E L COME BROTHER L I N D B E R G H , TO OUR M I D S T . " • I now have pleasure in asking your acceptance, as a small token of our admiration, on your inspiring exploits, the greatest of this age, YOUR CONQUEST OP T H E AIR, of an emblematical globe, which depicts the numerous stages of your flights, first across the wide Atlantic and then your WASHINGTON TO PANAMA ROUTE. On your return home, kindly convey to your Mother Lodge " Keystone No. 243" of St. Louis, the fraternal greetings of Panamanian Masonry. With our best wishes for a very pleasant visit to our city and surroundings and fraternal feelings of joy at your continued success. May The Great Architect of The Universe, watch over you, throughout the future. The Proceedings contain a picture of a globe of the world which was presented to this distinguished brother, and in which was placed a sombrero of Panama, which no doubt was highly appreciated by Brother LINDBERGH. D. LESLIE SASSO, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, Panama. MACARIO SOLIS, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, Panama.
318
CORRESPONDENCE—PENNSYLVANIA.
February
PENNSYLVANIA —1927. Lodges, 563; members, 21-0,593; net gain, 3-,250; A t the Quarterly Communication held March 2, 1927, R/. W/. WILLIAM ]S^-. HAMILTON Orand I^^'astsr' announ'^e'^ the ^^^^^Q^"^^^^ ^f THOMAS F . PENMAN from the important office of Chairman of the Committee on Correspondence. It is only necessary for the-writer to add t h a t his vacancy a t the Round Table will be a source of regret t o his brethren. We are pleased to find- a splendid picture of this distinguished brother as a frontispiece to this Review of Proceedings prepared by his successor. Brother HERBERT RUSSELL LAIRD. In the Proceedings of the Quarterly Communication of December 7, 1927, we find a complete exhibit of the Grand Lodge Charity Fund, which consumes eighty-four pages of the Proceedings. This list, of course, includes their Emergency Relief Fund-, which partakes of the nature of charity. In the Librarian's report we note t h a t 166 volumes have been added to the library during the year, making the total- number of volumes 19,117. In the report of the Committee on Masonic Home we find there are now 27 members in t h a t institution. We take pleasure in quoting the following under the head of X n o i v x a a u i l l u x-l-^ttcnut^y in x vi±iiayiva,i±i(i
i UA-iiioiic»x x x , o . i o oci vn^o xiicxi in
the World War, 1914-1918. At Che date of signing tlie Armistice, November 11, 1918, 268 of our Brethren had been liillcd in battle or died from wounds or in camp. At a meeting of Bobert Burns Lodge No. 464, of Harrisburg, Pa., held in 1920, the late Right, Worshipful Pa.st Grand Master, Brother GEORGE B . OEL-IDY, made an address in -srhich he advocated the planting of a grove of 26S oak trees on the grounds of the Masonic Homes a t Elizabethtown as a memorial to our Brethren who died in that war; and so inspiring was his address that the money necessary to purchase the trees was then and there contributed; and in due coiu-se the grove was planted near the site of the Blair County Memorial Building. I t was deemed fitting that in this grove there should be erected a permanent and lasting memorial to Our Glorious Dead, and at the Quarterly Communication of Grand Lodge, December 2, 1925, the Committee on Finance of Grand Lodge recommended an appropriation of $20,000.00 for the purpose; which was approved and the erection of the memorial was intrusted to the Committee on Homes. The Committee selected Mr. AUGUSTUS LUKEMAN, of New York Cit.v, a sculptor of wide reputation as the artist to design and erect the monument, which he describes as follows: The architecture is simplified classic, executed in polished sea green,granite, from Kockport, Mass. The monument measures from the base to the top of the tablet eleven feet, set in a circle eighteen inches in height and twenty feet in diameter, -with, heavy granite coping surrounding. • The granite weighs approximately fifteen tons. Against the granite tablet is a seated figure cast in bronze, heroic in size, in height four feet six inches. If standing the figure would be seven feet six inches.
1928-29.
COBRESPONDBNeE^PENNSYLVANIA.
319
The figure symbolizes the allegorical' mother. She has. across- her lap a musket and- helmet on which she places- the wreath of laurel, symbolizing Honor, and in her left hand she holds the palms, the symbol of Peace and Victory. At her feet is the- .Altar of Liberty, on which rests a bronze open book inscribed THESE BRETHKEN-MADE THE-SUPREME. SACRIFICE.
The names of the 268 Brethren who gave their lives in the World "War follow. Gn. the face of the Altar is carved the Keystone, on which is- the Compasses and Square, with garlands of pine cones and pine leaves. The back of the main tablet contains the following inscription: TO T H E MEMORY OP-THE MEMBERS OP T H E MASONIC FRATERNITY IN T H E JURISDICTION OF PENNSYLVANIA WHO GAVE THEIR LIVES IN T H E WORLD WAR, 1 9 1 7 - 1 9 1 8 THIS MEMORIAL HAS BEEN ERECTED BY T H E RIGHT WORSHIPPOL GRAND LODGE OF T H E MOST ANCIENT AND HONORABLE FRATERNITY OP F R E E AND ACCEPTED MASONS I N PENNSYLVANI.A IN GRATEFUL RECOGNITION OF THEIR PATRIOTIC DEVOTION
From the address of the Grand Master, as shown in the Proceedings of their Annual Grand Communication of December 27, 1927, we take pleasure in quoting the following under the ^^head of "Clandestine Masonry": The Equity proceedings in the Courts of Allegheny County, against a clandestine organization calling itself "The Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted, Masons of Pennsylvania," has been delayed by the unfortunate death of our Trial Counsel, Brother JOHN C . BANE. An able member of the County Bar, Brother L E E C . BEATTY, has succeeded him, and although much of the work done by Brother BANE must be retraced, it is now well in process, and, it is hoped, will be heard at the next session of the Equity Court. A second legal proceeding with the same organization is now pending in the Courts of Harrisburg. Under a recent Act of Legislature, we have had registered in the office of the Secrecary of the Commonwealth, copies of the Emblems, Insignia, etc., in use by the Fraternity. Some time later, an attempt was made by this body to register the same or similar emblems, they claiming the right, and the exclusive right, to their use. A registration by the rightful owner having previously been made, their applicat on was refused by the Secretary, whereupon they made application to the Courts for a Writ of Alternative Mandamus, to compel such registration by the State Secretary. The argument on this proceeding is now pending and it will, doubtless, be disposed of in the near futm^e. The writer of this report has just returned from a visit to his old home in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, and while there was looking after the up-keep of the family plot in the cemetery in which lie the remains of his father, mother, brother and several other close relatives. In arranging with the sexton to. do the work the latter noted the writer's- address on a card handed him for the purpose of furnishing the proper address to send a statement of expenses when- the work was completed, and remarked that he belonged to a lodge in Irwin, but their organization was maligned and abused even
320
COBBESPONDENCE—PENNSYLVANIA.
February.
to the extent of being called negroes. The writer of course understood to what he referred and that he was connected with one of these clandestine organizations and of course offered no comment. These remarks are submitted only as 'a matter of information to our own brethren concerning the subject submitted to Grand Lodge by the Grand- Master. Under "Appendant Organizations" the Grand Master had the following to say: I t would appear that the repeated warnings of Grand Masters against those organizations which attempt to create a semblance of connection with Freemasonry by their requirement of Masonic affiliation, has not been entirely without effect, since, with but one exception, no serious complaints regarding their acti^aties have reached the office of the Grand Master. Tlie investigation of the cases of complaint, reported as pending a year ago, have established the fact that the bodies complained of, and their individual members had been engaged in practices which were grossly un-Masonic, and it has been a matter of regret to some that after a full consideration of the conditions, it was deemed inexpedient to take definite action, other than a warning against a repetition of the offense. I t is hoped that the suggestion that the remedy for the present unsatisfactory conditions was in the hands of the Brethren themselves, and that they could, by proper action, avoid restrictive legislation by Grand Lodge, has taken root, and that it may thereby be possible to defer such legislation, until definite plans for their abatement may be formulated. In order to prevent the further multiplication of these hangers on, an Edict was Issued, early in the present year, forbidding membership in organizations hereafter to be established, which require Masonic affiliation as a prerequisite to memDership therein, as follows; To the Worshipful Master nf f.nrinf No. Frco ar.d Accepted MasoiiS' D E A R SIR AND BKOTHEE:
Whereas, The establishment and continued e.xlstence of certain organizations or associations which require Masonic affiliation as a prerequisite to or qualification for membership therein has not inured to the benefit of Preemasonrj^: and Whereas, The first duty of the Brethren is to this Grand Lodge, and the divided allegiance to which they subject themselves by membership in such organizations, creates a condition inimical to Freemasonry, and in violation of the Laws, Usages and Customs of the Fraternity in this Jurisdiction; and Whereas, The Grand Lodge possesses, retains and exercises the right to restrict and control the use of their Masonic affiliation, made or attempted to be made by its members. Therefore, I, AVILLIAM M . HAMILTON, Eight Worshipful Grand Master of Masons in Pennsylvania, by virtue of the powers and authorities in me vested, do hereby order, direct and declare, that from and after the date hereof, it shall be unlawful for the members of the Lodges in this Jurisdiction to become associated, or In any way identified, with organizations hereafter to be established, which require Masonic affiliation as a condition necessary to membership therein, unless and until authority from this Grand Lodge, for the creation of such organization, shall first have been obtained. This Edict shall be read at the next Stated Meeting of your Lodge, copied in full in the minutes, and a copy thereof sent to each member of the Lodge with the notice for the next Stated Meeting following its receipt. Given under my hand and seal, at the City of Philadelphia, this Nineteenth day of March, A. D., 1927, A. L., 5927. WILLIAM M . HAMILTON,
Grand Master.
1928-29.
.
CoBBESPONDENCE—PENNSYLVANIA.
321
I t is a gratifying fact t h a i this Edict has been received by the members of the Fraternity with practically unanimous approbation, indicating t h a t the basic esteem and reverence for the Lodge and for its perpetuation unhampered by entangling alliances, is deep rooted in the hearts of the Brethren, and that they are ready to yield willing obedience to provisions which tend t o preserve its integrity and wellbeing.
An important topic was presented by the Grand Master under the caption of " T h e Large Lodge" and we take pleasure in quoting i t : I t would seem reasonable to expect that a large Lodge, with its many young, active, enthusiastic members and with abundant resources, would be able to accomplish greater things than one which is denied these advantages, b u t an analysis of the annual reports not only do not establish this as a fact, but to the contrary, demonstrates that, with few exceptions, an equal number of Brethren composing two or three smaller lodges, surpasses the larger one in the real work of the Craft and, therefore, is of greater value to the community and to the Brethren themselves. I t is true that these large Lodges, as a rule, are in the control of officers of unusual ability, necessarily so officered, as they are business organizations of considerable magnitude, and unusual business capacity is required in the conduct of their ordinary business affairs, but it is also true that the demands on the time and talent of the officers in the conduct of these affairs must be followed by a lack, to a greater or less extent,' of attention to those other and more important fraternal duoies which constitute the real reasons for the existence of the Lodge. Further than this, and more to be regretted, is the fact that it is not possible to build up a close personal association with more than a small percentage of its total memberslup, and as hand to back and breast to breast and knee t o knee form the chief charm of that membership and the feature of greatesi value to individual and organization, its absence causes the interest to wane and service which might have been of untold worth t o the Fraternity, totally lost to it. The Review of Proceedings was prepared by Brother HERBERT RUSSELL LAIRD, and from his preface we take pleasure in quoting the
following: Foremost in the proceedings wMch have been the subject of review, is the all-prevading question of Masonic Education which is given serious consideration by nearly every Grand Lodge—one wonders sometimes if it is not regarded from a too serious standpoint. Conditions regarding study are today as they always were and probably always will be. There has been and there is that element which delights in •study and research and there has been and likely always wiU be that element willing to leave all such to their leaders. Certainly neither retrogression, dry rot nor lack of desire to do that which will benefit humanity is evidenced by the tilings being done by the present Masonic generation which has t o speak for it the millions invested in Benevolent Funds and in Homes for the aged and the orphan; Educational Loan Funds which with their several millions are making it possible for thousands of a m bitious students to complete their educations; Hospitals with invested millions which are doing such a wonderful work—these tell the story of present day Masonry—they indicate the bigness of the Masonic heart and the appreciation of Masonic obligations, and they warrant an optimistic faith in t h e Freemason who can always be depended upon to do his full duty in time of emerg'ency; whose response to the call of charity is always sympathetic and generous, and who is loyal to GOD and country.
322
CoBBESPONDENGE—PHILIPPINE
ISLANDS.
February.
We are under obligations to Brother LAIRD for his review of our 1927 Proceedings,. and the writer personally feels highly complimented in having so muchjof his preface to t h e last report quoted by this distinguished brother. J. WiLLisoN SMITH, R.-. W . - . Grand Master, Philadelphia. JOHN A. PEHRY, K.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, Philadelphia. Next Annual, Philadelphia, December 27, 1928.
PHILIPPINE ISLANDS —1928. Lodges, 101; members, 6,683; net loss, 159. Manila, January 24, 1928. JOSEPH H . SCHMIDT, M . - . W . ' . Grand Jl"stcr. Brother HARVEY A. BORDNER, our Grand Representative, was present. From what is termed a " r e p o r t " of the Grand Master we take pleasure in quoting the following from the preface: Masonry is Friendship and Service, and it has been my constant endeavor, during the year just past, to give you, my Brethren, a full measure of both. I t is not for me to say how successful I have been in my efforts; but I can and will say, that I have had more friendship and service from my Masonic Brethren during my term as Grand Master, than my fondest hopes had led me to expect. I thorefoie stand Ijcioie you a profoundly grateful and proud man; grateful for the splendid cooperation that has made my wnrU- pleasant-, and proud to have been, for one year, head of so splendid a body of Masons as those of the Philippine Islands. * * * * * * The progress that Masonry has made in the Philippines in the last 25 years is something phenomenal. From a few struggling Lodges in 1902, only two of which were recognized, a Masonic Grand Body has developed, and this Grand Body is known and respected throughout the masonic world under the name of Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the Philippine Islands. I t now consists of 101 Lodges scattered throughout the Archi" pelago from Aparri to Jolo. Composed of the best elements of the popiHation, the 7,000 regular Masons of the Philippines are doing splendid work. Funds for a Masonic Home, School, and Dormliory are accumulating and have already reached a respectable figure, and the Masonic Hospital for Crippled Children is also raising a large building fund and is in the meantime operating a flve-bed ward for little cripples in the Mary J. Johnston Memorial Hospital in Tondo. Masonic Lodges have free clinics for cliildren and other local charities in several places in t h e Islands. Many of the most prominent citizens in our city and provincial life, as well as the leaders in commerce, Industry, philanthropy, education, and statesmanship are Masons. Thanks to this, the old-time prejudice against the Order is fast disappearing in the Islands. Under the head of " S t a n d a r d of Provincial Membership" t h e Grand Master submits t h e following: Another thing most gratifying to me was the high standard of membership in the provincial lodges. Wherever I went, I found the outer door securely guarded. Petitioners for t h e degrees were submitted t o a very careful investi-
1928-29.
COBBESPONDENCE—PHILIPPINE
ISLANDS.
323
gation before election. The elements most numerously represented are the educated class, and public officials. In one province, for instance, the governor of the province is a Past Master and present Secretary of the Lodge. In another, the chief executive of the province and of the Lodge are the same person. In still another, the district health officer is Master of the Lodge, and, finally, in one province, the entire Provincial Board consists of Masons. To bo brief, careful selection and t h e high standard of membership are t h e watchwords of the Lodges which it has been my privilege to visit in the provinces.
Ritualistic work in the provinces is referred to by him as follows: My visits to the Lodges in the provinces have been a revelation to me. In view of the remoteness of some of the places from the capital of the Islands, I did not expect to see degree work worthy of special commendation; b u t imagine my surprise when, after crossing seas and rivers and traversing mountains and forests, I saw work done with an accuracy and dignitled assurance that I found lacking in some of our metropolitan Lodges, and heard the lectures delivered in the English language, letter perfect and with good pronunciation and enunciation, by Brethren whose mother tongue is one of the local dialects -and who have little or no opportunity t o practise with their associates t h e English that they have learned at school.
It vnll no doubt be interesting to read the following taken from the subject of "Visiting the Sick": The Lodges have been conscientious in the performance of their duties towards the sick. In order that Brethren not connected with Lodges In Manila who are sick in the hospitals or in private houses in this city, might not be overlooked, your Grand Master appointed each month a Grand Lodge Committee for visiting the Sick. This Committee was composed of members of the Grand Lodge. The Brethren so appointed were instructed to ^asit all sick Brethren not belonging to Lodges located in Manila whose names were submitted to them by the Grand Secretary and to bring these sick Brethren •cheer and comfort. The Committee Inquired in what way the Grand Lodge, the Grand Master, or the Committee could be of help to them, and saw to it that they received visits from Masons residing in the city. Each visit was reported to the Grand Master, who endeavored t o personally call on each sick Brother reported on by the Committee. The provincial Lodges were Instructed to telegraph or write immediately when a Brother or a member of the immediate family of a Brother was to leave for Manila to enter a hospital here, and a great number of such letters and telegrams were actually received diu'lug •the year. The work done by this Committee was most commendable and it Is earnestly recommended that future Grand Masters follow the practice initiated this year. In his conclusion Brother SCHMIDT had the following to say: If I have made mistakes, if I have unwittingly hurt the feelings of some of my Brethren in the performance of my Masonic duties, let me assure you that I did what I thought to be for the best interest of om- Fraternity. Let me assure you that I have no other feelings toward any of you, but that of brotherly love and gratitude. M y year's service has broadened my views and has made me a better and more charitable man, charitable towards the weaknesses and failings of others. This is my farewell to you as Grand Master. B u t do not think t h a t b y returning the Grand Gavel, I shall cease my Masonic activities. Ear from it. I shall continue to work with a will, to serve my feUowmen. especially my Masonic Brethren. I shall use the experience that I have acquired during
324
COBBESPONDENCE—PHIZJIPPINB
ISLANDS.
February'
my year as Grand Master in the service of others. I shall give you that same loyalty and service that you have given me and for which I am truly thankful. A resolution to the memory of our late Brother General LEONARD WOOD was adopted by the Grand Lodge, and we take pleasure in quoting it: The members of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of t h e Philippine Islands have assembled for the purpose of giving expression to (heir sense of the loss which they, in common with the country whose distinguished representative Brother Governor General LEONARD WOOD was, and the community wliich he so unselfishly and efficiently served, have sustained in_^his death. Looking back to the beginning of his career when he occupied an obscure post in the medical corps, and tracing him down the stream of time, until he rose to the foremost rank of American generals, we find at every point the evidence of a character intensely devoted to duty. o r liim ii, may be said that he was the personification of integrity; that he always subordinated personal ambition to the common good; that while merciful, generous and kindly he was as firm and Immovable as adamant when it came to doing what he believed was his duty, never swerving from the path of what he thought was just and right. Tried by the standards of mind and character which the Masonic fraternity forever adopt in measuring themselves and their fellowmen, we confidently say that it needed but a slight acquaintance with the real man to recognize in Brother Governor General LEONABD WOOD a generous and noble spirit, a pure-minded, brave, and GoD-fearing gentleman, who exemplified in his life the ideals of Masonry at their best. And we therefore hereby resolve: T h a t wo shall over cherish a remembrance of the sterling qualities of our dGC0a.36d brother Governor General LEONARD "VVOOD who as a Man and a Mason was second to none, and do hereby attest our admiration and appreciation of the life and labors which were brought to a close by his untimely death; That we tender the family of our deceased brother. Governor General LEONARD WOOD, our deep sympathy in their bereavement, and that the Grand Master be. and he is hereby requested to send to them a copy of these proceedings. We notice the brethren paused in their deliberations for the purpose of presenting an apron to a brother on behalf of the Grand Lodge Zur Eintracht of Germany. We of course submit that the Grand Lodge of the Philippine Islands has a perfect right to extend fraternal relations to the above Grand Lodge, but we rise to ask why this presentation was not made in one of their lodges and not in the Grand Lodge. The honor was being conferred upon one not a Grand or Past Grand Officer of this German Grand Lodge. The Review of Proceedings comes from the hands of Brothers L E O FISCHER, and NEWTON C . COMFORT, Grand Secretary, for Past Grand Master GEORGE R . HARVEY, who, as we understand it from the Proceedings was unable to do this work. Our Proceedings for 1927 are reviewed in this report. TEODORO M . KALAW, M . - . W.-. Grand Master, Manila. NEWTON C . COMFORT, R.% W.-. Grand Secretary and Correspondent, Manila. Next Annual, Manila, January 22, 1929.
1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—PRINCE
EDWARD
ISLAND.
325
PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND-1928. Lodges, 18; members, 1,224; net gain, 27. Port Hill, June 27, 1928. PETER SINCLAIR, acting Grand Master. Owing to the illness of the Grand Master he was unable to attend this Communication; however, his address was submitted to Grand Lodge, and we quote the following two paragraphs taken from the preface: I t is with unfeigned feelings of regret that I am unable to welcome you to this Fifty-third Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of Prince Edward Island, of which I had the honor to be elected Grand Master last year. Since the 10th. May last, I have been confined to the house and hospital oTiffering from blood poisoning, but through the providence of the Great Arcliltect of the Universe, I am pleased to state that my health is slowly improving. I t seems that one of their lodges accepted a petition from one who was minus one arm and when the matter was referred to the Grand Master he replied as follows: Our Landmarks and Constitution prohibit the acceptance of any one into our Order who cannot comply with the several niodes of recognition of our Order, in due form. The Deputy Grand Master, R.-. W.-. P E T E R SINCLAIR, in submitting his report, had the following to say: I regret that today we are deprived of having with us our Most Worshipful Grand Master, Brother WILLIAM J. DRAKE, who has been laid aside by illness during the past few weeks. I visited him at the hospital and the Members of Grand Lodge will be pleased to know he is making steady improvement, and we all trust he will soon be able to resume the active duties of life. Time like a never failing stream has again completed another cycle and OTOng to the absence of our Most Worshipful Grand Master it now becomes my duty, as Deputy Grand Master, to preside over this Fifty-third Annual Communication, and submit to you my report for the past year. We take pleasure in quoting the following from the report of the Grand Lecturer: I t may not be unfitting, however, to express a doubt concerning the use made of the Ritual. Having made a fairly successful effort to memorize the minimum portion of the Ritual that is necessary to work the degrees,we tend to forget about such tUngs as expression and interpretation. The chief end of the Ritual is not the mere monotonous repetition of it; rather is the Ritual a vehicle whereby we may convey to those who seek, the vital truths that have rewarded our own search. I t is particularly desirable that the lectures of the degrees should be rehearsed in Lodge from time to time, whether or not Jhere is any degree work. The newly-admitted brother must be instructed and the interest of the older brethren maintained. The Pro-Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of England, LORD AMPTHII.L, said something along this line, which merits quotation. He said: "X seize this opportunity of repeating a suggestion which I have often made,—namely, there should be some brief discourse on Masonic history. Masonic principles, or on the administration and activity of the Craft a t every Lodge meeting."
326
COBBESPONDENCE—PUERTO
RICO.
February.
During the year a memorial tablet was unveiled in honor of their first Grand Master, M.-. W / . Brother JOHN YEO, and we take pleasure in quoting the following from the address of R.-. W/. Brother GEORGE W. WAKBFORD:
I am asked by t h e members of Alexandra Lodge, No. 5, Co uuTeil a Memorial Tablet erected by them to the memory of the late Brother JOHN Y E O . I understand that 1 am selected to perform that important and pleasing duty owing to my early and close acquaintance with him, both commercially and masonlcally, having met him in a commercial sense in 1870, and in a masonic sense in 1874, t h e year preceding the formation of the Grand Lodge of Prince Edward Island. I was present a t and witnessed his installation as our first Grand Master, and became more closely associated with him as Grand Secretary 1879—188.3, and as Deputy Grand Master 1884—1885. During those seven years I accompanied him on his visitations to the Subordinate Lodges, and can truthfully say t h a t he ever had the welfare of the fraternity a t heart. The brethren appreciated his scr-.-ices by continuing hlin in oiHce to iSSy, a period of foiu'teen years. At the adjourned meeting of the Grand Lodge held on the 12th. of August, 1875, there were present seventy-four representatives. Today only three are living: H E N B T W . LONOWOBTH, who was Master of Victoria Lodge; BBADFOHD D. HowATT, Master of True Brothers Lodge; and JAMES B . BIKCH, Junior Warden of Alexandra Lodge. Brothers HOWATT and BIBCH are present with us today. I was there as a visiting Master Mason, first taking a seat In Grand Lodge as a representative of St. John's Lodge in 1877.
There is no Report on Correspondence. PETETK SiNULAiB, M.'. W.". Grand Master, Emerald. ERNEST K E M P , R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, Cliarluttetown.
Next Annual, Grapaud, June 26, 1929.
PUERTO RICO —1928. Lodges, 53; members, 4,000; net loss, 500. San Juan, JOSE GONZALEZ GINOKIO,
M . - . W.-. Grand
Master.
The Proceedings fail to show the date for holding their Annual Communication. We sincerely trust that some good brother who can read the English language will convey this inforrnation to Brother TORRES, Grand Secretary, in the hope that he will add this inf orrnation in the Proceedings hereafter. If this good brother would copy, in a measure, the form of printing the Proceedings of other Grand Lodges it would greatly assist the writers of the Reports on Correspondence in reviewing their Proceedings. We find in the front of the Proceedings a list of Lodges in that jurisdiction. Grand Representatives, and the address of the Grand Master. The Grand Master acknowledges with thanks the assistance rendered him b y Brother JoSE G. TORRES, their Grand Secretary, and
under the head of visits he lists the lodges so honored, indicating t h a t he was greatly interested in his work.
1928-29.
CoBBESPONDBNCE—QUEBEC.
327
A number of what is termed "Masonic Festivals" were held during the year at which the Grand Master was present. We note, however, that he made an official visit to the National Grand Lodge of Domingo, an organization not recognized by our Grand Lodge. J O S E GONZALEZ GINFORIO, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, San Juan. JOSE G . TORRES, R.-. W.". Grand Secretary, San Juan.
QUEBEC —1928. Lodges, 84; members, 15,158; net gain, 469. Montreal, February 8, 1928. R.'. W.'. HENRY WILLIS, Deputy Grand Master, presiding. M.'. W.". Brother E. A. EVANS, our Grand Representative, was present. We quote the following from the preface to the Grand Master's address: We meet for the first time in our history with the Throne vacant. The Deputy Grand Master presides over Grand Lodge and delivers the address. Brethren let me before proceeding with the recital of my official acts, request you to rise, and with bowed heads pay a silent tribute to the memory of our late Grand Master, who like his distinguished father died while in office. He has left with us a treasured memory. This unprecedented condition was brought about through the death of their Grand Master, M.-. W.". WALTER J. HAGAR, who passed to his reward on June 25, 1927. |<^ A splendid address was delivered by their Grand Chaplain, Brother J. H. BARNES, and we are taking the liberty of quoting liberally from i t : Life, after all, is very short. We cannot go back over the path once trod, the years never return nor do the opportunities that come in our way. It is necessary t o test all things that come before us for acceptance and let them find a place in our life if they are good. If they do not measure up to the standard, then pass them by but if they are good hold them fast. This exhortation stands for us from the volume of the Sacred Law as it did for those in the Apostles time and a very excellent rule of life it is. We are living in a day when it is quite impossible to give time or thought to everything that is passing before us or even to that which seems to have a claim upon our time and is worthy of our consideration. There are many things which are not worth a passing notice but there are many things that appear to be good and men must ask themselves what shall I give my time and means to and what shall I reject. I will venture to say that no age in the world's history ever tried to cram so much into the same period of time as we do to-day. Things outside one's ordinary business, which occupies most of our day, and consequently we are occupied both night and day. And all this in' spite of the fact that we must ignore the claims of many things and persons upon our lime and in some instances suffer the displeasure of many well meaning people who think we are not taking our part in the affairs of men. We must prove all things and hold fast that which is "good", not ancient or modern but "good".
328
• CORRESPONDENCE—QUEBEC.
February,
I t is to be feared that in the process of the selection of interests that which is good does not find its rightful place, if indeed any place at all. I t is surprising to And how many things are patronized by men and women and the amount of money spent on them—things which at the best do not contribute anything to the betterment of themselves or ohe community and are a waste of time. There are many men and I have no doubt you have met some who have said with regard to freemasonry: " I have no time for anything like t h a t " and consequently it falls among the discarded things in their Ufe and yet when you look to see what things do occupy their time you wonder what is their rule of life or why they could turn Freemasonry out of their thoughts. In spite of this it is gratifying, to see the increase in the membership of our order and the report for the past year shows a still further increase both in members and new Lodges. There is another characteristic of this day in which we live which is the outcome of this necessity for the selection of personal interests. I t is the rejection of everything that does not meet the demands of this new day and flU its needs. I t is felt in every walk of life. An old established business house, respected and flourishing for centuries still trying to live upon its past instead of keeping pace with the times and meeting present day needs has gone to pieces, failed, closed up, disappeared. The public generally have no sympathy or respect for its age or past years of service. The rapid changes laking place to-day can be seen in comparing the latest inventions of a few years ago with those of to-day, so rapid in fact that last year's models or fashions are no longer of any use to us to-day, it won't do. We have seen many things venerable with age and loaded with sentiment, patriotic and otherwise, utterly rejected, discarded, broken up for the reason that they did not meet the needs of our day. There is a ruthlessness and a severity in it all which arouses within many people bitter feelings and strong resentment even when they know deep down m their hearts these tilings are no longer iiecessary for our ua>'. Is not a great deal of the unrest and failure in the religious world to-day a result of this same testing and rejecting of everything that does not serve our day and generation. Neither Churches or Societies, Institutions or Organizations of any kind can any longer demand a place in the affairs of men, merely because they can claim to be ancient. Antiquity or Historicity carry very little weight in this new age and this ne vv world if the thing itself does not serve our purpose. We lose very little sentiment over old things. We do not respect a man because of his ancestry if he liimself is not as worthy, as his fellowmen. The question ^vith us is not " How ancient is it? or what are its claims? " but "Does it meet the needs of the day, my needs, your needs, everybody's needs and if it fails here nothing else can make it acceptable. Will Masonry survive tliis test? Does it meet the needs of our day? The world has a right to know this of it. Is it worth while carrying out elaborate programs and recei\'iug and spending money?" The world asks these questions and we ought to be able to answer. The Divine Injunction is to "Prove all things and hold fast that which is good." Just before each individual Lodge closes its labours for the day a prayer is offered to GOD that He will preserve our Order and adorn it with "every moral and social virtue." This is the very life of the Craft, the foundations of the Order. This is that which makes Masonry essential to every age and a blessing to man. It is that preserving element which was found wanting in the nations of the past. Social and moral virtue will preserve a people and their gifts and make them great and this is the chief concern of Masonry. But GOD can only adorn our Order with these gifts as long as there are men willing to receive them. He cannot adorn our Lodge in any other way and if we are not willing to submit ourselves to Him we tie His hands and make it impossible for the Lodge to prosper or to meet the needs of our day. This is the most essential part about Masonry. I t is its foundation and declares that no other
1928-29.
. CoBBESPONDENCE—QUEENSLAND.
329
institution can boast of a more solid foundation. A beautiful super-structure is a menace to life, and a waste of wealth if its foundation is not secure, b u t being secure it is both useful and attractive. So with Masonry, if we build upon its. foundation there will be no need to apologize for the Order and it will take the highest possible place of influence among men and in the nation. To do this Masonry occupies a most unique position. I t is quite outside of all confusion and strife of creeds or sects or parties. I t is not allied in any re-spect to a man made organization of any kind. It formulates no creed, no doctrines, neither does it take sides against any creed or doctrine or sect or party. They don't enter into its consideration in the least, they are not even mentioned, but it does bring together men who believe in Goo and enables them to coDcentrate on the practice of every "moral and social v i r t u e " to which no one, with t h e welfare of man at heart, could possibly take exception. If we are to learn the lessons of the past and realize that great .nations and peoples endowed with wonderful gifts and powers failed because they were wanting in those things that make for continuance, "social and moral virtue," should we not be wise in our generation and concentrate on these essentials? This is exactly what Masonry is doing by binding men of all shades of thought and learning in ties of the strongest Brotherly Love, and unitedly puts them to work to carry out "every moral and social virtue." The Report on Correspondence was again presented by t h a t zealous and faithful Craftsman, M.C W.-. Brother E. T. D. CHAMBERS, who for forty-one years has served the Craft of that jurisdiction in the capacity of Chairman of the Committee on Foreign Correspondence. In his report we find a brief review of our 1927 Proceedings. HENRY WILLIS, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, Quebec. W. W. WILLIAMSON, R.-. W . ' . Grand Secretary, Montreal. E. T. D. CHAMBERS, P.-. G.-. M.'., Correspondent. Next Annual, Montreal, February 13, 1929.
QUEENSLAND —1927. Lodges,—••——•; members, ; net gain,— At the Special Communication held on July 27, 1926, the installation of Grand Master occurred, and from the remarks of the installing officer we are pleased to quote the following: Your life is as an open book before us, for everybody who cares to read! and it shows that you not only know the principles of our order, but that you also understand them, because,—and that is best of aU,—you have incorporated them into your every day life and actions, thereby setting a worthy example to all your brethren; while the fact that you have again been unanimously elected to fill the high office of Grand Master is conclusive proof that you have carried out faithfully and well the duties and responsibilities of it. Therefore, it is not necessary that I should dilate on either of these points to a Brother who has given such proof of a truly high conception of Freemasonry, and of his own high OfQce. My mind at this moment goes back over two generations of Masons, and I see before me all the men, who during that long time, have presided over the Graft in Queensland, from Sir AUGUSTUS GREGORY, the Hon. JOHN DOUGLAS,
and Sir SAMUEL GRIFFITHS, right down to you, the last, b u t not the least of them. They were aU eminent men in their respective spheres, some of out-, standing ability, and they all used their ability to guide the Craft wisely, andi worked unselfishly for its advancement. You stand in the direct line of suc^
330
CORRESPONDENCE—RHODE
ISLAND.
February,
cession to them all, but none were as honoured as you, because none had the great responsibility which the Grand Master of to-day has to carry. The greater the responsibility, Bro. STUMM, the greater, necessarily, the honour; the greater the honour the greater the expectations of your Brethren, and the greater their moral claim on you for guidance by precept and example. You have in the past risen to the occasion, and thereby have earned the appreciation, the gratitude, and the love of your Brethren, but no man can work alone, and in Masonry, as in ordinary life, there must be mutuality, to make a perfect and lasting whole. As a man gives so should he receive; if you have duties and responsibilities towards us, so have we, the rank and file of Freemasonry, towards you, and I hope that I may not be considered presumptuous if I take it upon myself to speak on behalf, not only of this assemblage, but of all the nearly 22,000 Masons under your jurisdiction, of whom b u t few can look back upon a.longer Masonic career than I, in pledging you our and their wholehearted and loyal support and most respectful fraternal regards and co-operation to make Freemasonry in this State a still greater force for the good of not only ourselves, but of all mankind. From t h e Grand Master's address we take the following: Another measure by which we can be tested in the world is by our service to our fellow-man. Recently we have heard a great deal about a Club which has as its great guiding principle "Service to men." That has always been one of the first declara;tlons of the initiate on his entrance to our ranks from time immemorial, a n d it is incumbent upon us not to forget that it is one of the first principles taught, and one of the most important. The initiate declares in the earliest stages that he is not actuated in seeking membership by any mercenary motives, but by a genuine desire to make himself serviceable to his fellow-man. I n t U s , if the candidate is true, he will ever endeavour to close the door to seiusliiieas, aud will always cultivate unselfishness and self-sacrifice. At the Special Communication held on May 11, 1927, the first order of business was t h e nomination of Grand Lodge Officers and we observe t h a t their faithful Grand Master, M.". W.-. Brother C. STUMM received the usual Honors. His election occurred at their Quarterly Communication of June 1, 1927. CHARLES STUMM, M . - . W.-. Grand Master. CHARLES H . HARLEY, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, Brisbane.
RHODE ISLAND—1928. Lodges, 40; members, 18,852; net gain, 561. The Annual Communication was held in Providence, May 21, 1928. WiNFiELD S. SOLOMON, M.-. W.-. Grand Master. We are unable to ascertain from t h e Proceedings whether our Grand Representative was in attendance or not as there seems to be no list in the formal Report on Credentials. From the preface to the Grand Master's address we quote the following: One of the very pleasing results of this work is the splendid fellowships which have come about as a consequence of the close association m t h the many brethren with whom it has been my privilege t o labor. I am very happy in the thought that there has grown out of this fellowship a great desire •for constructive service, and the longing to bring happiness to others.
1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—RHODE ISLAND.
331
Wliile another year has come to a close this Grand Lodge shall continue to go on to greater accomplishment. My earnest and sincere hope is that this same good fellowship, Vais same zeal for service and the desire to exemplify the practical application of a Mason's profession may characterize us and control our thoughts and actions a t all times.
Under the head of "Masonic Clubs" he offers the following: One of the first problems I was called upon to investigate was the activity of the Masonic Clubs within this Grand Jurisdiction. Shortly after my election my attention was called to tlie fact that one of the numerous Masonic Clubs in tills Jurisdiction had been advertising a dance, which was to be held at a nearby resort. The objectionable advertisement was in the nature of a transparency attached to a wagon, wlilch was being driven through our streets, the wording of which was "Dance with the Masonic Club—50o". While there was no serious objection to the dance or t o the price of admission, the nature of the advertisement seemed to rather cheapen our order. I invited several of the State Officers of the Masonic Clubs of Rhode Island to a Conference, which resulted in making a request of them that the word Mason or Masonic be eliminated from their State Organization as well as from their Individual clubs. They assured me that this would be done. At the recent Annual Meeting of their State Organization the I'resldent informed me that their State Organization had changed its name to the Rhode Island League of Craftsmen's Clubs, and that every individual club had changed Its name by eliminating the word Masonic and substituting some other word therefor. M a y I add a t this time that I have no fault to find with this organization. They seem to fill a much needed place in the social life of our brethren, and in many cases have been doing a very wonderful work. Their National Organization has recently endowed a chair at the George Washington University a t Washington, D. C , for the training of young men for our diplomatic arid consular service.
He concluded his address with the following: If I have made mistakes it is simply because I am human, but I trust, that there will be some constructive work as a result of my labors. Let me express my sincere gratitude to those who so ably assisted me during theyear. Particularly do I want to thank Past Grand Master WILBUR A. SCOTT, Chairman of the Jurisprudence Committee for Ills counsel and advice which was frequently sought and very graciously given. May I bespeak for my sxiccessor the same sincerity of purpose, the same cordiality and the same devotion to duty as has been manifest among t h e Craft during the year. Let us never become so engrossed in our daily activities as to forget t h e obligations which made such an impression upon our minds when we first saw light in Freemasonry, remembering always the practical application of a Mason's profession: Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth.
We note from the special report of the Committee on Correspondence that fraternal recognition was extended to the Grand Lodge of Ecuador and the York Grand Lodge of Mexico. There is no Report on Correspondence. EDWIN O . CHASE, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, Providence. HAROLD L . MCAUSLAN, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, Providence,
Next Annual, Providence, May 20, 1929.
332
CoBBESPONDENCE—SASKATCHEWAN.
February,
SASKATCHEWAN —1928. Lodges, 189; members, 13,843; net gain, 237. Saskatoon, June 20,1928. WILLIAM M . MARTIN, M.-. W.-. Grand Master. Our Grand Jurisdiction is greatly honored in having as our representative near the Grand Lodge of Saskatchewan so distinguished a Craftsman as the present Grand Master. They were honored at this Communication in having with them M.-. W.-. J. S. MARTIN, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Ontario, who was extended the usual Honors. Prom the address of the Grand Master we are pleased to quote the following: Harmony has prevailed throughout the Jurisdiction during the year to a degree not surpassed in our history as a Grand Lodge and I am sure that the spirit of Masonic brotherhood is exercising an ever-increasing benign influence upon the conduct of oiu* members. My earnest wish in closing the year is that harmony may ever prevail in all the subordinate Lodges and throughout the Jurisdiction. Under the head of "Necrology" he had the following to say: We are constantly being reminded of the shortness of time for deaths •among our members occur very often and sometimes with startling suddenness. Someone has .saJd, "Even as is the race of leaves so is the race of man; for some •.t.TlA W H T I H at^^i-.t-.afo ny^ i-.hn
"uu »iiaii»Uiijue pm-a lOiuu wiien
t h e spring time comes on. So of man, the one springs up and the other dies away." An interesting address was delivered by the Grand Master under the subject of " Masonry and Citizenship", and from it we take pleasure in quoting the following: The most important of the ancient charges are those concerning GOD and Beligion and the Civil Magistrate and when these charges are read along with the charge to the newly initiated candidate, there is found a most comprehensive code of human ethics—a guide for man's conduct throughout life. If one follows the principles laid down in these charges he will never wander far astray and he will always be a good citizen of the country where he resides. Serious contemplation of the Volume of the Sacred Law is advised because in it will be found t h e duties we owe to GOD, to our neighbours and to ourselves. We are taught reverence to the Great Creator of all things and counselled to implore His aid in all our lawful undertakings and to look up to Him in every emergency for comfort and support. We are taught our duties to our neighbour; we must render t o him kindnesses, we must relieve his distress, soothe his afflictions and always act towards him as we would wish him to act towards us. Finally we are taught our duty toward ourselves; we must conduct ourselves so as best to conserve our bodily and mental faculties; we must avoid excesses of all kinds and must live in such a manner that we may be able to exercise our talents to the glory of GOD and the welfare of our fellowmen. With respect to the Civil Magistrate we are taught that a Mason is a peaceful subject wherever he resides and must never be concerned in plots and conspiracies against the peace and welfare of the nation; he must conform
1928-29.
COBBESPONDENCESASKATCHEWAN.
333
to every lawful authority, uphold on every occasion the Interest of the community and promote the welfare of his own country; he must be exemplary in the discharge of his civil duties, pay due obedience to law and act in such a manner as to perform the duties of a good citizen, thereby setting an example to others. This is a very high standard of conduct and one which aU must strive to emulate. Every Mason who understands the principles of the Craft is interested in citizenship and is desirous of being a good citizen of the country in which he resides. There is no institution which teaches more directly or more plainly the fundamental principles of citizenship than Masonry. Ours is an institution wliich teaches its members by its Ritual, its Ceremonies, its Symbols, its Obligations and its Charges to practice and maintain every virtue which should characterize a good citizen. Citizenship is notliing more or less than puliUc service. Every man should free liimself from the narrowing influence of purely selfish pursuits and discover a wider freedom and larger joy in making his work a means of service to others. What the home is to the town and village in civic life the town and village are to the country in national affairs; it is the spirit which exists in the home that to a great extent determines service to the community and it is the spirit of service in the community which determines the value of the community to our country. The home very largely determines the kind of citizenship in the community; it is the bulwark of the nation and everyone interested in the future should set Ms face in determined opposition, to every encroachment upon the sanctity of the home. There are suggested encroachments on the home showing themselves today and these suggestions are sponsored and seriously discussed by many people who occupy prominent positions, and these influences, if not checked, will perpetrate a great wrong upon the people of this country as well as of other countries. These are most evil influences and everyone interested in citizenship and in the future of our country must strenuously oppose any suggestion which has for its object the breaking down of the great foundation rock of society, for if permitted the result will be freedom from restrains, disorder, and lawlessness and the complete disruption of our much boasted civilization.
* * * * * * We must be tolerant of the views of others. There is no country where the spirit of tolerance should be exercised more than in Canada. The nature of our population requires it and the history of our country demands the exercise of this virtue. In the ancient charge concerning GOD and Religion we are told that a man's religion may be what he likes and that he is not excluded from Masonry by reason of his religious views provided he believes in the e.xistence of the Archiitect of heaven and earth and practices the sacred duties of morality. We are also told that Masonry is the centre of union and the means of consolidating friendship among those who must otherwise remain at a perpetual distance. One cannot help but be amazed at the breadth of view and the spirit of tolerance expressed in the ancient charge when it is remembered that it was written at a time of bitter sectarian strife, for the sentiments expressed therein would do credit to any writer even in these modern days of supposedly broader views. The man who wrote the ancient charge deserves to be remembered by all Masons to the end of time for he has wrought into the very soul of Masonry the principles of tolerance, humanity and brotherhood which have had a great influence upon the institution and have made it a force in the world today. Let me therefore counsel you to practise tolerance in your daily lives. Masonry is not opposed to any religion. The history and the principles upon which the institution is founded prevents it from being so; the ancient charges say so. Avoid, therefore, association with any organization which has for its object opposition to or the persecution of the adherents of any religion. If you do associate yourselves with any organization
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haying such objects in view you violate the main tenets of the Masonic Order, you will bring the -Craft into disrepute, and destroy its influence. Masonry for centuries has stood alone and has pursued its course appealing to men of aU classes on its merits. Let us see to it that no harm is done the ancient institution in this province by allowing its fair name to be injured by association with any other organization. We should be moderate in our ot>inions and in our e'cpressions of opinion for we are taught moderation in all things. In a country such as Canada very important public que.5tions frequently arise wlilch tend to divide the people into two hostile camps. We must always be prepared to adopt the moderate course. We must always remember that there are usually two reasonably good sides to all matters of controversy. In the interest of harmony, therefore, and in order that, in the end proper and well considered solutions may be reached on difficult problems, let us be moderate in our expressions of our views and not too critical of the opinions of others. J. K. IRWIN, M . ' . W.". Grand Master, Assiniboia. W. B. TATE, U.'. VV':. Grand Secretary, Regina.
Next Annual, Prince Albert, June 19, 1929.
SCOTLAND —1928. Lodges, ; members, ; net gain, . From the Proceedings of December 22, 1927, we quote the following topics, which no doubt will be of interest to our readers: CONPKRTCN^OTIBetween the Representatives of the Grand Lodges of England, Ireland, and Scotland, at Freemasons' Hall, London, on Wednesday, 13tli July 1927. Present—• England. M.-.W.-.Bro. Et.
Hon. LORD AMPTHILL, G.C.S.I.,G.C.I.E.,
Pro
Grand
• Master, in the Chair. B.-.W.-.Bro. Col. Sir A. HENRY M C M A H O N , G.C.M.G., G.C.V.O.,&c., P.G.W., Dist. G. Master, Malta. R.-.W.-.Bro. Sir ALFRED BOBBINS, P.G.W., Pres. Bd. Gen. Purposes. V.-.W..Bro. Sir COLVILLE SMITH, C.V.O., Grand Secretary. Ireland. M.-.W.-.Bro. T H E EARI. OF DONOUGHMORE, \K.P.,
P.O., P.G.W. .(Eng.),
Grand Master. It .-.W.-.Bro. Col. CLAUDE CANE, Deputy Grand Master. R.-.W.-.Bro. Sir CHAKLKS BARRINGTON, Bl., Prov. G. Master, North Connaught. K.-W.-.Bro. JAMES H. STIRLI.N'C, Prov. G. Master, Antrim. R.-.W.-.Bro. HENRY C. SHELLARD, Grand Secretary. Scotland. M.-.W.-.Bro. Rt. Hon. LORD BLYTHSWOOD, K.C.V.O., D.L., J. P.,P.G.W. (Eng.), Grand Master Mason. B.-.W.-Bro. A. A. H.\GAET SPEIRS, i ; . i . , J.P., G. Master Depute. B.-.W.-.Bro. JOSEPH IXGLIS, W.'i., J.P., Substitute G. Master. B.-.W.-.Bro. T. G. WINNING, Grand Secretary.
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M.-. W .•. Bro. LORD AMPTHILI,, on behalf of the M .-. W.-. The Grand Master and the United Grand Lodge of England, expressed his great pleasure and satisfaction in having the Grand Masters and representatives of the Grand Lodges of Ireland and Scotland present to confer with representatives of t h e United Grand Lodge of England, and extended to each a most hearty welcome.
M.'.W.'.Bro. LORD DONOUGHMORE thanked Bro. LORD AMPTHILI.
for the welcome extended and expressed the pleasure of his Irish brethren and himself at the opportunity thus afforded; and these sentiments were fully endorsed by M.'.W.'.Bro. LORD BLYTHSWOOD on behalf of the Scottish brethren. Candidates Residing in other Jurisdictions. Bro. LORD AMPTHILL stated that the first subject for discussion had been raised by the Grand Lodge of Ireland, and asked Bro. LORD DONOUGHMORE to open the question. Bro. LORD DOSOUOHMORE briefly stated the position; and, on the motion of the Grand Master of Ireland, after full discussion, it was unanimously agreed that the three Grand Lodges should be recommended to ernbody in their Books of Constitutions a Law t o the following effect:— " N o Lodge under the Constitution of this Grand Lodge shall initiate any candidate whose usual place of residence or domicile is in England, Ireland, or Scotland, or in any place where the United Grand Lodge of England, the Grand Lodge of Ireland, or the Grand Lodge of Scotland has exclusive Masonic .lurisdiction without first making full enquiries, and obtaining the special permission of the Grand Lodge concerned. "This Law shall not apply to Offlcers of H.M. Navy or Army on the active list, or to members of any University where there is a Lodge confined to members of that University." Formation of New Lodges in Territory where the Three Grand Lodges are Working. Bro. Sir COLVILLE SMITH explained that, during his recent visit to" Africa, his attention had been drawn to the formation of new Lodges by one of the three Grand I^odges in places where there was an existing Lodge which appeared to meet the local needs, thus causing overlapping, and, in some cases, unpleasantness; and he suggested that some arrangement might be arrived at, whereby this could be avoided. Bro. LORD DONOUGHMORE stated that he had heard that some such arrangement had been made between the District Grand Masters of the three .lurisdictions, as well as the Grand Orient of the Netherlands, in South Africa; and, after a general discussion, it was agreed that, while the proposal of Bro. Sir COLVILLE SMITH, " T h a t , where'a new Lodge is suggested in any of the Districts overseas in which there are other recognized Jurisdictions, the District Grand Masters of such .lurisdictions should be notified of such intention," merited further consideration, in view of it having been reported that an arrangement on the lines indicated had already been entered Into by the representatives of the four .lurisdictions in South Africa, enquiries should first be made to ascertain if such was the case, and the exact nature and wording of the agreement. Establishrrent of Lodges in Mandated Territory. A letter which had been received from the Grand Secretary of the Grand Orient of the Netherlands by each of the Three Jurisdictions respecting the proposed formation of a Lodge in Belgian mandated territory in the Congo under the Jurisdiction of the Grand Orient of the Netherlands, was considered. I t was unanimously agreed that a reply should be forwarded endorsing the opinion that no such Lodge should be warranted, as this would be an invasion of territory where there is already a sovereign Jurisdiction. I t was also agreed that a copy of the letter and the reply thereto should be forwarded by the respective Grand Secretaries to their Masonic authorities in their various Districts and Provinces in South Africa. The question of the establishment of Lodges in various parts of the Old World where there was not already a Masonic Power in existence, by certain
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. COBBESPONDENCE—SCOTLAND.
February,
Grand Lodges of the New World, was raised by Bro. Sir ALFRED EOBBINS. I t was agreed that, while any such Lodges established in territory mandated to Britain would be considered an invasion of the home Masonic territory, and that the practice should be closely watched, no action could be taken unless such invasion took place. Dispensations for Wearing Masonic Clothing in Public. The question of the graudng of dispensations for the wearing of Masonic Clothing in public was considered, and it was agreed that these should be granted only after due enquiry, and when the circumstances warranted. National Grand Lodge of Egi/pt. The question of the situation of Masonic affairs in Kgypt was considered, and it was agreed that no recognition should be given to either of the Grand Bodies existing in that country until such time as their differences might be overcome and unity restored. Becognition of Foreign Grand Lodges. Bro. Col. CLAUDE CANE suggested that the question of the recognition of Foreign Grand Lodges should be reviewed with a view to uniformity being established in the lists of Grand Lodges shown in the Masonic Year Books as recognized by the respective Grand Lodges. I t was considered that, so far as the past was concerned, this should not be done, but that it was desirable to re-aflirra the general agreement that the recognition of Foreign Grand Lodges should be a matter for mutual consultation. Future Joint Conferences.. Bro. INGLIS emphasized the value of such Conferences, and expressed the hope that these would be held at future periods as circumstances warrant. This was unanimously agreed to. In conclusion, Bro. LORD DONOUGHMORE thanked the M.-. W.'. The
Grand Master for convening the Conference, and the M.-. W.'. the Pro Grand Master, Bro. LORD AMPTHILL, for presiding over them, this being endorsed by Bro. LORD BLYTBSWOOD.,
A Quarterly Communication was held in Edinburgh, February 2, 1928, at which proper respect was paid to the memory of their late Brother, The R t . Honourable, T H E E A E L HAIG, K . T . , in the follow-
ing words: The brethren being upstanding, the Most Worshipful Grand Master Mason said:—"Bretliren, Scotland and t h e whole Empire are to-day mourning the loss of our greatest soldier, who has been suddenly called to the Grand Lodge above. Field-Marshal EARL HAIG of Bemersyde led our Armies to a glorious victory in the Great War. He was a true soldier, with indomitable courage and iron nerve, who never swerved in his duoy to Iiis iving and Country. He was indeed beloved by all ranks who served under him. To-day we think of DOUGLAS HAIG as we knew him in Grand Lodge. A man of delightful personality, with a wonderful charm of manner, he endeared himself to all with whom he came in contact. After his warfare was over, he made tiis life-work the interests of those who had served under him and who, through the effects of the War, were unable to help and support themselves, and the care of the dependents of those who had made the supreme sacrifice. What higher aim could any hero have had, and for this noble work he will always be revered and remembered. I t is indeed characteristic of DOUGLAS HAIG that he had no desire to be laid to rest where England's heroes sleep, but should wish to sleep his last sleep among his own people at his beloved home in Scotland at Bemersyde, on the banks of the Tweed. We shall ever remember the
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great honour he paid Grand Lodge by becoming a Grand Lodge Office-bearer; what more striking example can we have of the true spiiit of Freemasonry— brotherly love and benevolence—which he has left behind him by his noble life? His name will live for ever. 1 have sent a telegram, in the name of Grand Lodge, to Lady HAIO expressing our deepest sj'mpauhy in her great loss. A wreath of poppies has been sent from the bretliren of Grand Lodge, and these poppies will denote our devoted remembrance. With representatives of Grand Lodge I shall attend the Funeral Service in St. Giles' to-morrow. I am sure i t will be your desire that a letter of sincerest condolence of Grand Lodge be also sent to Lady HAIO." Brother The Right Honourable The EAKL O F ELGIN AND KINCARDINE,
C.M.G., D.L., J.P., Past Grand Master, said:—"Most Worshipful Grand Master Mason, as Provincial Grand Master of the Province from which Brother LoED HAIG came, will you allow me to endorse the beautiful tribute which you have given to the memory of our brother who has passed above. I think t h a t his Masonic history is one which cannot but impress itself upon all those who knew him. He was, as we know, a Freemason from the core, one who had thoroughly served his apprenticesliip and had proved in himself the very ideals of what a Freemason should be. AVe here to-day can only profit by his example, and try to follow in his footsteps." The Rt. Hon. T H E LORD BLYTHSWOOD, M.-. W.". Grand Master. THOMAS G . WINNING, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, Edinburgh.
SOUTH AUSTRALIA —1928. Lodges, 133; members, 13,658; net gain, 565. Half-yearly Communication held in North Terrace, October 19, 1927.
H. K. WBNDT, Deputy Grand Master, presiding.
We note the absence of our Grand Representative at this Communication. In submitting his address the Deputy Grand Master had the following to say: I t is usual for the Grand Master when presiding over the Communications of Grand Lodge to speak to the members on matters he thinks will be of interest to the Craft, and as, owing to the lamented death of our Grand Master, I am acting as Grand Master for the time being, I will follow the usual procedure, and will ask you to bear with me for a few minutes. Firstly, I wish to thank the Oflicers of Grand Lodge for their wholehearted support and help. R.'. W.'. Bros. ROWLEY and COKNISH have been very kind, and only just lately Bro. ROWLEY undertook the West Coast trip at very short notice, when I had unfortunately developed an attack of the 'flu two days before I was supposed to leave. Both of these brothers have taken country trips and have been most helpful to me in every way. The Grand Wardens, R.'. W.'. Bros. LINO and ALLEN, have done an enormous amount of work both in the country and in the metropolitan area, and have worthily discharged the duties of the high offices they hold. Brother P. E. JOHNSTONE addressed the Deputy Grand Master as
follows: I t is my sad privilege to ask you to be pleased to accept from Mrs. POOLE, widow of our late M.-. W.'. Grand Master, this trowel m t h which he laid the foundation stone of this Temple. He filled with such distinction the various
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CAROLINA.
February.
public ofiBces he held that I shall noc enlarge upon them—Grand Master, Administrator of the State, Judge of the Supreme Court of South Australia, Warden of the University Senate. Surely, you can truly say of him he has raised a memorial more lasting than brass. I t was my privilege to have prepared his will, and in it he was not unmindful of Grand Lodge. A clause in Ills will states:—"I give and bequeath free from all duties all trowels and mauls which have been already presenLeu to me by any Ijodge in the^ Constitution for laying foundation stones." When I prepared that document I noticed how extremely pleased and how anxious he was to bequeath to Grand Lodge this trowel with which he laid the foundation stone of this fine Temple. We cherish lus memory. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity of speaking this evening, a n d handing you, R .•. W.'. Deputy Grand Master, in behalf of Grand Lodge, this trowel. I do so at the wish of Mrs. POOLE, to whom it. was an extreme pleasure to give effect to her husband's ^vish. B r o t h e r J O H N M E L L I S N A P I E R , one of H i s M a j e s t y ' s j u d g e s of
t h e S u p r e m e C o u r t , was installed G r a n d M a s t e r , a n d from his .splendid, r e m a r k s we t a k e t h e l i b e r t y of q u o t i n g t h e following: Brethren, it is in all sincerity I say, that I cannot pretend to bring to yourservice the gifts of mind or character which adorned the eminent brother whom we have lost; b u t this I can say, that, with one e.xception, I have been privileged to sit, as it were, a scholar at the feet of every Grand Master, who has yet presided in this Grand Lodge. I think that I can claim to have been honored by their friendship and goodwill and I trust thai the seed has not fallen upon altogether barren ground. I trust that I shall be granted grace and strength to follow not unworthily in the footsteps of those who have gone before. I thank you in all sincerity for your expressions of loyalty and confidence and I shall ever strive to retain a.nd to a,iigment that confidence by a faithful and fearless discharge of the duties of the office to wliich you have The Report on Correspondence, prepared by Brother A. J. ADAMS,.
contains a review of our 1927 Proceedings. JOHN M E L L I S NAPIER, M . \ W.-. Grand Master. CHARLES R . J. GLOVER, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, North Terrace,
Adelaide.
SOUTH CAROLINA —1928. Lodges, 294; members, 29,848; net gain, 95. Charleston,
March
14, 1928.
CHAKLTON D E R A N T ,
M . - . W.:
Grand Master. Our Grand Representative, R.\ W.\ Brother M. A. LANFORD,
was present at this Annual Communication. The Grand Master presented his address in the following words: We have met again in Grand Lodge to review the work of the past year and to plan for the future. This marks another milestone in the life of Masonry from an unknown past to a time beyond our imagination in the future—a brief period in t h e countless centuries. To the individual it should have a still greater meaning. Our births were yesterday, and our passing is near. I mention this not as a cause for sadness, but as an incentive for us to profit by and review our mistakes and shortcomings and be thereby moved to efforts to improve the future so that we may not be unprofitable servants.
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Let those who are after the deep and spiritual things which Masonry makes available learn her lessons, absorb her wisdom and enlarge their lives with the content of her teaching. We can do a little, but very little, to help or hinder her beneficent progress, but Masonry can do much for us if we will.
The following no doubt will be interesting to the stalwart branch of Freemasonry: I wish to quote the words of the Potentate of Omar Temple in the bulletin •announcing a recent meeting, " T h e fez attracts not because it is a fez. I t is because the world knows the wearer is a member of the Masonic fraternity. The Mason knows that the fez covers the head of one who has submitted his name, his character, himself to the test of the ballot no less than four times. They know that he has been received and honored by the brethren. To Masons, to Masonry, therefore, does the fez-topped Shriner owe it to live, ac;, walk and conduct himself as Masonry teaches. * * * Every time a •Shriner strays from the path, a Mason strays. Every time a Shriner brings reproach upon his fez-covered head, he spots his apron." These are true words and well spoken. At times Shrine meetings have brought reproach upon Masonry. The Officers of the Temples in this State, •as good men and true Masons, have done what they could, but there have been some who mistook liberty for license and brought reproach upon the good name of Masonry. The responsibility of the subordinate Lodges extends to every Mason of whatever degree. The heavy hand of punishment in the Blue Lodge should fall upon those who bring a public reproach upon Masonry, and it makes no difference whether tills is done at a Shrine meeting or anywhere else. There is nothing wrong with the Slirine, but there has been something wrong with some Masons in the Shrine.
A resolution was submitted and adopted providing for a contribution of $1,500.00 to the Shriner's Hospital for Crippled Children. From the report of the Grand Historian we note his work is practically completed and that the result of his labors will be presented to the Grand Lodge at its next Annual Communication. This work no doubt will be interesting and we are sure our brethren of South Carolina will be grateful to Brother W. G. MAZYCK.
The usual report on Review of Proceedings was again prepared by Past Grand Master JAMES L . MICHIE and we review his work with a
feeling of sadness, having been advised only a few days ago that Brother MICHIE had answered the final call. Further reference will be made to our friend and brother in the next review of the Proceedings of South Carolina.
The writer numbered Brother MICHIE as one
of his warmest personal friends and when occasion presented itself always enjoyed discussing Masonic affairs and acquired many splendid ideas from his storehouse of Masonic knowledge. His last review contains a splendid report of our 1927 Proceedings, including a very complimentary reference to the writer. WILLIAM A. GILES, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, Graniteville. O. FRANK HART, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, Columbia. JAMES L . MICHIE, P.-. G.-. M.-., Correspondent, Darlington.
Next Annual, Charleston, March 13, 1929.
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DAKOTA.
February,.
SOUTH DAKOTA —1928. Lodges, 176; members, 19,707; net gain, 24. Sioux Falls, June 12, 1928. GEORGE O . GOODMAN, M . - . W.-. Grand Master. We note that our Grand Representative was not present at this Communication. Immediately following the prayer at the opening of the Grand Lodge the American flag was presented at the altar, after which the Grand East was decorated with flowers. We quote the following from the preface to the Grand Master's address: Another year with its sunshine and its shadows, its laughter and its tears has gone, carrying with it many tender memories. The days come and go with almost unbelievable rapidity each one bringing its own experiences and Its own rewards. Each year we assemble for two brief days; " days during which we rejoice in being together. But even these are touched m t h mortality, as Is every earthly thing and so the days glide by and they are gone while the welcome is still oh our lips. We find that abstract perfection is unattainable; it is a horizon that recedes as we advance. The end visualized by one generation is attained by the next, and proves to be only a resting place on the ever ascending path of progress. Historians tell us that four great civilizations have faltered and perished on thi.*! gra.rie witliin t h e limits of recorded history; but a new clvilizatioii has always arisen to carry the bauner of progress to hitherto Inaccessible Lelijhis. Even as it is with the human race so it is .with us as individuals, each one accomplishes but little in the short space of time alloted to him. How well do I realize this and that it is absolutely impossible for any Grand Master, no matter how capable he may be, to institute and carry to completion in twelve months any program which he may have for the advancement of the Craft.j Under "Grand^Lodge'Bulletin"[he submitted the following: I feel that a determined effort should be made to establish a more intimate relationship between the Grand Lodge and our Constituent Lodges. The Grand Lodge Biillelin could be made a helpful medium to accomplish this result and should be published with such an object in view. I t affords every member an excellent opportunity to keep in touch with the Masonic activities In .South Dakota. The circulation of the Magazine should be greatly increased and with your co-operation it can be made a most interesting Masonic Journal. Judging from my observations, I am sure our members do not realize that it can be had for t h e asking. The Grand Secretary will gladly send It to any brother who asks t o have his name placed on the mailing list. Speaking of the condition of the Craft he had the following to say: We are pioneers in the Fraternal world; our history Is rich In tradition and pride of ancestry, but we cannot rest on past laurels, nor be unmindful of the future, for continued success and prestige wiU be ours only in proportion as we labor Intelligently and take our part in the affairs of the world. This fact is especially true In view of our rapidly changing conditions. What has been the destiny of those organizations who have been content to dwell upon
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past glories and past achievements? We know it has been decay and ruin. Let us profit by the experiences of the past. Let us labor diligently in the present, but ever having before us a vision of the future.. A matter that has given me concern is the suspension of members because of non-payment of dues. There are cases where suspensions are necessary and for the best interests of the Lodges but if my observations are correct there are too many instances where suspensions are ordered without diligent effort on the part of the Masters, secretaries and committees to make every reasonable inquiry concerning the financial condition of the delinquents and their mental -attitude with relation to a continuation of membership. A desire on the part of the member to definitely withdraw from all Masonic work and interest is the only valid reason why a member should be suspended for non-payment of dues. The Master of every Lodge should appoint a committee composed of members who have a knack of reaching the hearts and the pocket-books of men. This committee should, if possible, interview every delinquent member, appeal to his pride, if necessary, and urge him to continue his membership. Explain to the brother that if he is ill or out of employment or otherwise in distress, the dues will be remitted and a receipt given him for the amount of his dues. On the other hand if the committee ascertains that the brother is living beyond his means they can give him good and timely advice. Many large and prosperous Lodges use this plan with satisfactory results.
We take pleasure in quoting the following appropriate words under "Co-ordinate Bodies": I believe these bodies furnish all of the Masonic inspiration necessary to our welfare. No less an authority than Sir ALFEED BOBBINS on his return to England after his Masonic visit to this country declared that the one great danger to American Masonry was the existence of extraneous organizations or the so-called side degrees. The following is the attitude of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania on this subject: " T h e doctrine of Pennsylvania Masonry as to side degrees was enunciated by Grand Master HENDERSON. The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania recognizes nothing but Ancient Freemasonry. I t does not countenance side degrees, nor will it permit organizations not Masonic, to use titles having a Masonic reference. Ancient Craft Masonry is our property, and we cannot allow attachments to be made to it which destroy its symmetry and pervert it from its original purpose." This is getting to be the attitude of most Grand Lodges. These organizations derive their inspiration from Masonry, their sustenance from the Craft, and credit before the world as factors of Masonry. They appeal to the imagination of our members and bid for their thought, their attention, their time and their service, thereby tending to divert them from their original allegiance. This Grand Lodge is big enough, is powerful enough, Is influential enough to direct that a man's standing in Masonry is dependent upon his loyalty to the Institution; is dependent upon his obedience to its laws and its regulations. It is not alone my recommendation but I urge, that we take action, through our Jurisprudence Committee, to exercise a general supervision over any new bodies claiming to be coordinate Masonic bodies, with the idea of preventing the formation of other organizations, in this. Grand Jurisdiction, claiming to represent Masonrj.
This subject was rererred to their Committee on Jurisprudence, and the Grand Master's thoughts on this subject were confirmed in the following words: With reference to what are sometimes called Co-ordinate Bodies of Masonry, your Committee on Jurisprudence holds that so far as the jurisdiction of
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tliis Grand Lodge Is concerned, there are no Co-ordinate Bodies other than the constituent lodges. Dealing with the disposition of the funds of lodges, the Grand Master submitted the following: I believe it is the duty of our Grand Lodge to be helpful to the Fraternity in this Grand Jiu^isdlction whenever it should appear that methods are being piu-sued which not only curtails our usefulness but which are dangerous to the very lives of the Lodges themselves. With conditions changing as rapidly as they are today we are forced to modify many practices if the true interests of the Fraternity are not to suffer. In the older Jurisdictions it has become a well established law that fundr of a Lodge cannot be used t o assist in any activity which Is not recognized as a Masonic one. I learned through observation tliat while many of our Lodges are well conducted a large number are very much in need of efficient business administration. FJariy in my term of ofHce I realized that the treasuries of the Constituent Lodges were being systematically raided. Today society is over organized. This is as true in the small communities as It is in the large cities. No matter where, you go you -vviH find the church, clubs, lodges, movies, parties and reform leagues all in active competition for our money. I t has become almost impossible for a local Lodge to protect itself against tills continual solicitation of its funds. Since the Constituent Lodges cannot protect themselves I believe the Grand Lodge should, for the good of the Order, enact 6uch legislation as will put a stop to the practices which now exist. "With this in mind I recomniend that the following Seccions be inserted . in our Code: Lodge Funds—--The funds or securities .of a Constituent Ledge shall not be used for any other than strictly Masonic purposes, except such activities as are endorsed by the Grand Lodge or the Grand Master. The above was referred to their Committee on Jurisprudence, who made the following report: This committee recommends that constituent lodges be counselled to conserve their funds and to guard against waste, because we appreciate the dangers pointed out by the Grand Master. However, we do not believe that the Grand Lodge, or the Grand Master should have the right to deny to the member lodge the right to use their funds according to the judgment of the lodge for what the lodge may consider proper Masonic purposes. The writer certainly does not agree with the judgment of the committee, as the Grand Lodge is the creator of its constituents and under all rules and regulations on which our institution is founded it has absolute control over these organizations, and therefore has a perfect right t o circumscribe the use of the funds which are contributed by the members for no other purpose than meeting the fixed charges necessary for the government of the lodge, and for charity. . Under "Financial Appeals" he submitted the following: No Lodge, individual or organization shall make or circulate within this Grand Jurisdiction any Masonic appeal for financial aid for any purpose unless such appeal be authorized by the Grand Lodge or the Grand Master. No Lodge in this Grand Jurisdiction, or officer or member thereof, shall give any certificate or recommendation to enable a Mason in an itinerant manner to apply to Lodges for relief.
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The above was referred to the Committee on Jurisprudence, and adopted. We find in the Report on Correspondence a review of our 1927 Proceedings. This splendid report, as usual, was prepared by Brother ARTHUR H . T U F T S .
ST. CLAIR SMITH, M.-. W . \ Grand Master, Aberdeen. GEORGE A. PETTIGREW, R . ' . W.-. Grand Secretary, Sioux Falls. ARTHUR H . TUFTS, Correspondent, Sioux Falls. Next Annual, Mitchell, June 11, 1929.
TASMANIA —1927. Lodges, 4 1 ; members, 3,744; net gain, 93. Hobari, August 22, 1927.
CLAUDE E . W . JAMES, M.-.W.-.Grand
Master. The Board of General Purposes recommended that lodges requiring lecturers should make application to their respective areas, and that the traveling expenses of the instructor be defrayed by the lodge. pti They also recommended that the Grand Master appoint R.'. W.'. Brother R. G. M E E K , who was then in England, to represent the Grand Lodge of Tasmania at the ceremony of laying the cornerstone of the Masonic Peace Memorial. CLAUDE E . W . JAMES, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, Hobart. W. H . STRUTT, R . ' . W . \ Grand Secretary, Hobart.
TASMANIA —1928. Lodges, 4 1 ; members, 3,814; net gain, 70. Ulverstone, February 25, 1928. CLAUDE E . W . JAMES, M.-.W.'. Grand Master. The Board of General Purposes proposes the creation of a fund for the observance of the Centenary of Freemasonry in Tasmania in 1935. I t is proposed t o make a special levy on the lodges of two shillings per member for each half-year up to and including 1934. I t is estimated this will raise six thousand pounds'and that voluntary contributions will likely reach ten thousand pounds. CLAUDE E . W . JAMES, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, Hobart. W. H. STRUTT, R.-. W.". Grand Secretary, Hobart.
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COHBESPONDENCE—TENNESSEE.
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February,
TENNESSEE —1928. Lodges, 468; members, 50,674; net gain, 652. Nashville, January 25, 1928. H. L E E FOX, M.-. W . ' . Grand Master. Brother HALLUM W . GOODLOE, our Grand Representative, was in
attendance. The Grand Master in submitting his annual report had the following to say: At this assembling of the members of the Grand Lodge in its One Hundred and Fourteenth Annual Communication may each of us fully appreciate and be duly thanlcful t o the Supreme Ruler of the Universe for the prosperity and happiness enjoyed by us the past year, and may this Session be characterized by good fellowship, peace and harmony. "Wtiile we are here for the purpose primarily of transacting the business of the Grand Lodge, and advancing the interest and promoting the cause of Freemasonry, let us also endeavor to gather much pleasure and inspiration from this association by becoming better acquainted, mi-xing and mingling together, greeting old friends with a smile and hearty hand shake and extending a warm welcome to the many brethren who are with us for the first time.
Under "Visitations" we notice the Grand Master has to his credit and in another by sixty-eight. We anticipate a most pleasant and enjoyable time was had. We notice the Grand Master apologizes for not having given more attention to the Order of the Eastern Star, admitting, however, that he had the pleasure of visiting several of their chapters during his administration. He is of the opinion that the ladies should be encouraged and helped in their work. We rise to ask some one to inform the writer how long it is since a Grand Master of Masons assumed any responsibilities whatever as the head of the Craft in his jurisdiction of looking after outside organizations. We anticipate the Grand Master is not only a lover of the art but likewise has a weakness for the more refined sex. The Grand Master's rulings consumed ten pages of the printed Proceedings, indicating that many of the Masters resorted to the line of least resistance in writing the Grand Master for advice instead of looking up the law, A common habit in all Grand Jurisdictions. ,We quote the following from the Report of the Historical Committee: We have endeavored in as concise a manner as practicable, to present an accurate account of the lives in brief, the characters and Masonic associations of those stalwart leaders of the Craft who, from the beginning, made possible the successes and accomplishments of our twentieth century Masonry in Tennessee. They were faitiiful and efficient Builders upon the Spiritual
1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—TENNESSEE.
345,
Temple; and the memory of the selfless undertakings, their zeal and devotion, should be handed down with the Imperishable records of the Graft to the latest posterity. We have not been able to set forth as completely as we desired, or the good of the Craft requires, the interdependence of our relations with our sister grand jurisdictions. To our Mother Commonwealth, North Carolina, we are indebted for eight of our Grand Masters; and two who presided over the parent Grand Lodge sleep within our borders; BOBEHT W11..LIAMS, the last who governed the joint Grand Lodge of North Carolina-Tennessee, now rests in the old Presbyterian Cemetery at KnoxvlUe; and Dr. CALVIN JONES, a later Grand Master, whose latter days were spent near Bolivar, where the soil upon which the Western Asylum was erected, constituted a portion or his estate. To Virginia, we are grateful for nine distinguished leaders; to Massachusetts, for three; to New York for three; to Ohio, for two, and to Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Indiana, one each; also to South Carolina, for-two, and to Ireland for two. What have we given in retiu-n? To Mississippi, four Grand Masters, and two Lodges; to Arkansas, three Grand Masters and one Lodge; also a Governor who was our Past Grand Master, the heroic YELL. We have given to Missouri, one Grand Master, and three Lodges; to Kentucky, one Grand Master; to Iowa, one; and to Oklahoma and Montana, one, each. To the Texan Republic, we gave its first President, the "Hero of San Jacinto," SAM HotiSTON. To California, we have given the proverbial "Three Grand Masters."
We note from the Report of the Committee on Ways and Means that the Committee on the George Washington Memorial asked for $12,500.00, but the Grand Lodge could not see it that way on account of being short of funds and therefore reduced the amount to $1,500.00. Brother C. H. SMAET, Past Grand Master, prepared the Report
on Correspondence and from his preface we take pleasure in quoting the following: Of the George Washington National Memorial Association and the Masonic Service Association we have had very little to say in our reviews, for the reason that the different Grand Jurisdictions have made up their minds, and anything we could say would not change the result, so we are content to let those who are in it learn by experience whether the two are right or wrong. One Jurisdiction claims that the former association started out to raise 81,000,000.00 and, finding that the plan of raising the funds was "easy money," they have now increased it to $5,000,000.00. Of the latter association about half the jm-isdictions are members and the other half never joined it, or, having joined it, have withdrawn, while some say that there is no need of it. Our understanding is that it was formed to represent the Masonic fraternity should a future war arise, but it has developed Into a Masonic little red school-house sending out literature for the Secretaries of Lodges to read at the meetings. Why, any Secretary in reading these pamphlets would consume ten or fifteen minutes time, and, if he persisted in it, would be defeated at the next election. On a hot night, after the business is concluded, the members want to get into " t h e open," so as to get a bit of fresh air, and In the winter time they want to get to their warm beds as soon as possible.
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- CORRESPONDENCE—TEXAS.
February,
K a n s a s i s included in t h i s r e p o r t , w h i c h covers a review of o u r 1927 P r o c e e d i n g s . I n concluding his reference t o o u r Proceedings h e h a d t h e following t o s a y concerning t h e w r i t e r : We met Brother WILSON a t Denver and found him to be a first-class gentleman. Sound as a winter apple in October, and possessed of a bright mind and apparently in robust health. STANLEY W . M C D O W E L L , M . - . W . - . Grand Master, Memphis. STITH M . CAIN, R . - . W . \ Grand Secretary, Nashville. J O H N T . P E E L E R , Correspondent, Huntingdon.
N e x t A n n u a l , Nashville, J a n u a r y 30, 1 9 2 9 .
TEXAS —1927. Lodges, 986; members, 136,740; net gain, 940. Waco, December 7, 1927.
M. A. CHILDERS, M.-. W.-. Grand
Master. Brother WILLIAM CLARK, our Grand Representative, was present.
After the introduction of the Grand Representatives the Grand Master extended the usual greeting, and from his remarks we take pleasure in quoting the following: Masonry is a world-wide institution. Men of every nation are bound to men of every other nation by the strong ties of brotherly love and affection t h a t come from our having knelt around the sacred altar of Freemasonry, and this morning we welcome you brethren and extend to you this greeting and . word of affection, and I ask that you kindly transmit to your respective Grand Jurisdictions this word of greeting, and say to them that the Masons of Texas are trying to practice t h e principles of Freemasonry, are trying to keep in touch and in line with t h e ancient landmarks, and that they bear in their hearts affection for the brethren throughout the world.
The response to his words of welcome was made by Past Grand Master W. M. FLY, and from his remarks we take pleasure in quoting the following: However, 1 come here today feeling that I am in a place where aU sectionalism is dead, where all of us can stand in front of that great banner (the American flag) and acknowledge not only oiu fealty and loyalty to it, but pledge our love and affection to it, and we come with love for our brethren throughout the United States, and not only those, but throughout the world, and I want to say this on this occasion—that at least one-half of the Masons of the world are in the United States of Anaerica. That is a thing that surprised me when I ascertained it. The English-speaking people of the world have given Freemasonry its standing on this earth; they are the ones that have accomplished the great things tha;t have done things for Masonry, and through Freemasom'y for humanity throughout t h e world, and today we come here as Representatives of the great jurisdictions of the United States, pledging anew our fealty to our GOD, pledging anew our loyalty to the great Masonic bodies that we represent, and welcoming these Grand Representatives of the different Grand Lodges here, and giving them our heartfelt appreciation for their presence with us here today.
,1928-29.
. CORRESPONDENCE—TEXAS.
347
Today let us raise afresh the banners of Freemasonry throughout the Union and make this Grand Jurisdiction what it has been in the past, t h e grandest influence outside of the church for the upbuilding of humanity among all nations of mankind. I t has done more for peace than any other institution; it is doing that today. I t stands for the principles of the government t h a t It represents, and when it is necessary they are foremost to take arms for the defense of the grand principles of the government to which they belong.
The Grand Master, in his response to the address of welcome by R.-. W.-. Brother N A T M . WASHER, among other things had the fol-
lowing to say: I t seems unfortunate somehow, but we oft times forget our duties and ovae responsibilities to each other and to the world as Master Masons. We come to think that probably all there is in Masonry is the ritualistic work; we forget the fundamentals, and for t h a t reason some times Masonry suffers, but when men, gathered as we are today, representing the Grand Jurisdictions of the world—not of the United States, but of the world—unite together and pledge to each other their loyalty, their fealty and their faith, when they do that, is there not a great possibility that we will have a Union as indissoluble as that of the Great United States of America itself, all pledged to the same noble purposes, all resolved that Masonry, as it has been a factor In the development of this great world of ours in the past, will be even a greater factor in the future? Is it not possible to send out a message to the world that across that great arch, that completed arch of this magniflcent structure, the word "service" is written in indelible letters of Inextinguishable fire? Service to what? Service first to GOD, then service to country, then service to humanity. We have forgotten in our materialistic tendency, in our desire to accumulate something for ourselves, many of us have forgotten the larger responsibility. We need again to re-dedicate ourselves to the service of Almighty GOD. W & need again to re-consecrate ourselves to the service of country, and more than, all we must realize the fact that we are our brother's keeper, and that not only in Italy, not only in the persecuted countries of the world, but right here in' these great United States of ours there are men, and there are women, human as we are, suffering for the want of sympathy, suffering for the want of affection, suffering for the want of consideration—not of bread. More people are hungry for that grasp of the hand and that word of encouragement which m\\ give them new hope and new coui'age and which will lead us to realize the important fact that we are children of one Father, that one GOD has created us all. T h a t will be the effect of these annual customs of ours to assemble around this Grand Altar and report back to our several Grand Jurisdictions serving noc perfunctorily, but serving really and truly as emissaries, passing the message along from one jurisdiction to the other, so that all may be united for the giving of that greater service to GOD, to country and to humanity.
In accordance with their usual custom, all Master Masons^who had served the Craft for fifty years or more were introduced to the Grand Master. From the preface to the Grand Master's address we take pleasure in quoting the following: One year ago, I received a t your hands t,he outstanding honor that, in my judgment, can come to any man, when you elevated me to the position of Grand Master of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Texas. With a heart filled with gratitude, and in humility of spirit, I accepted the honor, \vith a prayer in my heart that GOD in some way might use me as a messenger of
348
CORRESPONDENCE—TE:KAS.
.
February,
brotherly love, relief and truth, to the end t h a t genuine and joyful fellowship among the brethren might obtain: that our vision of duty toward those to whom we have vowed the vows of brotherhood might be broadened; that our conception of t h e great spiritual forces and background of Masonry might be enlarged and our spiritual natures quickened; and that the net result of my administration in the way of constructive acUevement might afford me a t least some moments of happy reflection in the years to come. Today, I come in even greater humility of spirit, to render an account of my stewardship and submit for final review my record of official acts, with such recommendations as observation, deliberation and fraternal sentiment prompt me to make for the good of the Order. The year has been one of both sunshine and shadow. There has been great joy in the service of my brethren, and the splendid fraternal spirit and cooperation that have been shown toward me by the brethren throughout this Grand JurisdictioQ, and t h e fraternal fellowship with my brethren has been one of the delights of my life. In this connection, permit me to say I feel that my prayer has been, in a measure a t least, answered. Brethren of widely divergent views on many subjects outside the realm of Masonry have worked hand-in-hand with each other and with the Grand Master, in a spirit of genuine fellowship, without the sacrificing of a single conviction on the part of any. Under t h e head of "Fraternal D e a d " the Grand Master makes a brief but touching reference to their Past Grand Master, M.'. W.\ •GEORGE W . TYLER.
Under the head of "Use of the Word 'Masonic'," the Grand Master touches on the subject briefly, but sums up the question in the ioiiowing two recommendations: First: The use of the word " M a s o n , " " M a s o u i c " or any similar word •or expression in connection with a commercial enterprise of any character Tvhatsoevcr is hereby declared to be a Masonic offense unless such enterprise Is owned and controlled by some regularly organized Masonic body •entitled to use such term; provided, however, the Grand Lodge may, upon petition duly presented, grant permission to Masouic publications to use such terms so long as the publications are conducted in strict conformity to the policies of this Grand Lodge and the principles of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masonry as taught and practiced in this Grand Jurisdiction. Second: The Grand Master is hereby authorized to grant special dispensation to Masonic Lodges or groups of Masonic Lodges or individual Masons, to organize and operate Masonic Hospitals, and use the word "Masonic" or some similar term in the name thereof, upon such terms and conditions as he may prescribe, when he is convinced of the necessity and feasibility thereof; provided, that such organizations shall be chartered as non-profit corporations under the laws of the State, relating to corporations for charity or benevolence. The writer has been in active Masonic work for almost a half century and we do not call to mind where any authority is given a Grand Master or even a Grand Lodge itself to grant such authority to lodges, individuals or organizations, whether predicating their membership on Freemasonry or not. In fact our understanding has always been that the scope of supervision of a Grand Lodge or a Grand Master is limited to Ancient Craft Masonry, consisting of the degrees of Entered Apprentice, Fellow Graft, and Master Mason.
1928-29.
CoBBESPONDENCE—TEXAS.
349
The Grand Master had the following to say under the head of "Physical Defects": During the year I have granted permission to lodges to confer degrees on about one hundred and twenty-five parties with minor defects. All such persons were able physically to receive, practice and impart freely, without artificial or other aid, all rites and ceremonies of ancient craft Masonry. I have granted no permission to confer degrees where the thumb and index finger of the right hand were in any wise impaired. 1 recommend, however, that the Grand Lodge approve the granting of permission to confer degrees on worthy applicants where the work can be done with either hand, provided the other hand is not entirely gone. I further recommend that Entered Apprentices and Fellowcrafts acquiring physical defects after receiving the degree or degrees, be made eligible to complete the degrees. When once a Masonic obligation is assumed, the responsibility of brotherhood attaches, and whether the person be Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft or Master Mason, he is entitled to the fraternal regard of his brethren, and 1 can see no good reason, Masonically or otherwise, why he should be denied the privilege of completing the degrees simply because some calamity has befallen him since he einbarked upon che Masonic sea. 1 have refused permission to confer the degrees upon about fifty applicants because of physical defects. Practically all of these have been disposed of by following rulings heretofore approved by the Grand Lodge, and will not be herein specifically set forth.
The report of the Committee on Jurisprudence on this subject was as follows: The committee finds nothing to criticize in the actions of the Grand Master with respect to granting permission for the conferring of degrees upon applicants whose condition was found to be such as not to interfere with their reception in accordance with the ceremonies of our degrees, or his refusals with respect to those not properly qualified. The committee has carefully reviewed the two recommendations of the Grand Master, to-wit, the granting of permission to confer the degrees on worthy applicants where the work can bo done with either hand, provided the other hand is not entirely gone, and that E. A.s and P. C.s acquiring physical defects after receiving the degree or degrees be made eligible to complete the degrees. Having in mind the strictness which prevailed under the rules of this Grand Lodge with respect to matters of physical imperfection until a comparatively recent period, and the large measure of laxity which has been accorded by the Grand Lodge during late years out of consideration for worthy men who have suffered comparatively slight but not disabling injuries or deformities, your Committee on Masonic Jurisprudence is of opinion that the Grand Lodge has gone as far as it is wise to go with respect to this matter of so-called physical perfection and concessions for deviation, and in view of the considerable, and we believe sutliclent, discretion and authority invested in the Grand Master under the law and practice of the Grand Lodge on the subject as now prevailing it would be both inexpedient and unwise to go further or expand the present limitations with respect to physical defects. Some good men may suffer by reason of their inability to comply with our laws on this subject, but while we sympathize with them we must keep well in mind the paramount interest of the Craft as a whole, and are of the opinion that our present regulations re garding physical defects are as liberal as can properly and wisely be accorded.
The Grand Master recommended that official recognition be withdrawn from the Grand Lodge Valle de Mexico, and the Grand Lodge approved of his recommendation.
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COBBESPONDENCE—TEXAS.
February.
They likewise approved a further recommendation that fraternal relations be restored with the York Grand Lodge of Mexico. To the notion of the writer this is correcting a wrong prompted purely •by the powers that be in Scottish Rite Masonry. Had the "busy "bodies" refrained from interfering we doubt whether this unfortunate condition would ever have arisen. The Grand Master reconimended an assessment of $1.00 per member, to constitute a relief fund. The Grand Lodge modified the recommendation and made the amount twenty-five cents. From his conclusion we quote the following: Brother MALCOM BINGAY, in his prose poem b y that title, now famous in the Masonic world, doflnes it in the first person thus: " I am the Spirit of Masonry. " I preach the gospel of brotherly love and aftection for all mankind. ' T Kn lUW J'V. i tlie lessons of ji"aith, of Mope, of Charity. " I break olf. the corners of rough stones, the better to flt them for the Builder's use. . . " I give unto you the light, whereby you see the Divine plan of the Great Architect of the Universe. " 1 prepare you as living stones for His .Spiritual Building, that house not made by hands, eternal in the Heavens. " I bring into your hearus the secret of the lost word, the only real secret t h a t is in Masonry, the secret which can never be imparted by human lips, the secret which comes t o man through his own soul when, in meekness and humility, he kneels before Gon. " I teach you always the lesson of the ages, that, man is born to die, that all things earthly shall pass away, that your souls alone keep step with the march of etemit'^. " I reveal t o you the truth, that man must meet death'to find life. " I proclaim unto you forever the message of your patron saint, .IOHN the Evangelist, who tells you: ' I am the resurrection and the life, saiiih the Liord; he t h a t believeth in Me, though he be dead, yet shall he live, and whosoever liveth and believeth in Me shall never die'." From the oration delivered by R.'. W.'. Brother ALVA BRYAN we take pleasure in quoting the following: There are some that are so bold as to make the assertion that had it not been for the Masonic fraternity, had it not been for those men who were members of this great institution, who sat in the constitutional convention of the United States of America, that perhaps we would have had a different kind of government. If I read history aright, and if it has come down to us unsullied, as the facts are undisputed and we remember t h a t back there—and everytliing must have a beginning—that there was a force, a hidden force, that rose above all the obstacles that were presented at that time, and through the turmoil of years in the formation of this government there was given us the best example t h a t has ever been handed to human ears; when we remember that GEORGE WASHINGTON and FRANKLIN and WAKREN and HANCOCK and PAUL REVERE
and MONROE and BURR and COLFAX and those giants as they were, were the progenitors of t h e ideas and the ideals t h a t were promulgated a t that time and place, we can not help but come to believe that the broad assertion that has been made that the Masonic fraternity, through those men, was responsible for the kind of government that we have today. When we remember, and I call upon the lawyers of this audience to remember it, the preamble of the constitution of the United States, it is one of the soundest Masonic doctrines that you can find anywhere. I t is a promulgation of all of the ideals and principles
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of Freemasonry; when you remember that that preamble says, " T o form a more •perfect union, to esrabllsh Justice, to insure domestic tranquility, to provide for the common defense, to promote the general welfare, to secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity", I ask you, as Master Masons, could you find in all the books a plainer and more firm declaration of Masonic principles than that contained in the preamble to this constitution? I call your attention to the fact t h a t the man out of whose brain and heart emanated the idea, the word if you please, of the Declaration of Independence, the most immortal document, in my opinion, that has ever been penned by t h e hand of man, that he evidently had some Masonic training when he penned it. Thd lawyers in the audience today will agree with me that whenever you pick up and read ihe opinions of JOHN MARSHALI,, the legal giant of his time, a Master Mason, who was then a Past Grand Master of his Grand Lodge, that you can not read those opinions, if you are familiar at all with the principles of Masonry, that you do not read there that his mind and heart and his soul were allame for this institution that we call Masonry. I t might be refreshing for us to remember that as schoolboys we liked to read'of the midnight ride of PAtri. REVEBE, the man who gave the signal that the enemy was coming, was a Master Mason, and later the Grand Master of his State. «
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I wonder, oh, t wonder, my brethren, when we think back to the time when we went down on our knees and we said, " I will," and at another place we said, " I will not." Have you forgotten it? Have you? Brethren, an indictment has been brought against the Masonic fraternity in this country, and that indictment is that we spend our money in building fine buildings; that we willingly pay our dues, b u t t h a t we have forgotten the old-time ideals of Masonry. I hope that is not <true. When my mind goes back into the country, when as a mere lad I remember that when a Master Mason was sick, the brethren attended him; when I see that in the cities now, we are too biisy to do that; we hire the nurse, and she "goes to attend him, but I believe, my brethren, that when we do that we are depriving ourselves of a Masonic privilege, a Masonic pleasure that no one misses but ourselves. I have heard it said that if you want to And the truest Mason you must go to the country districts; that those of us who live in the towns and in the cities, we forget, we forget. Oh, my brethren, if I were to appeal to you tonight, and if I could bring you any kind of a message, 1 would feel repaid, 1 would feel exceedingly glad if 1 just knew t h a t one man in this audience had rededlcated his life under the banner of Masonry. We do not know what we are missing. Past Grand Master FRANK JONES addressed the Grand Lodge with reference to their Past Grand Master, M.-. W.'. JOHN WATSON,
who was on a bed of sickness, and in deference to the wonderful record of Brother WATSON we quote the following words from the remarks of Brother JONES: Brother WATSON asked me to find out who, if any one, is In this room who had attended the Grand Lodge in Texas in 1872, the first year he attended it. Is there any brother in the room who was in the Grand Lodge of Texas in 1872? If there is, please hold up your hand. There doesn't seem to be a one. I take it that there are none. Brother WATSON was made a Master Mason in 1869. He has been a Master Mason for 58 years. He attended the Grand Lodge of Texas for the first time in 1872, and has attended every year since that date until prevented this year by sickness. As many of you know be has closed this Grand Lodge, after the ritualistic closing, by forming a chain around the altar and singing " In the Sweet Bye and Bye."
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352
CORRESPONDENCE—UTAH.
February.
With your permission I will give that record to the reporter to go in the proceedings, and I want you to know that he sends you his love and his regards and he regrets more than words can tell that he could not be here. As I left him he simply polnied his finger to heaven, meaning that when next we meet him we will meet him there. I thank you. The writer wiii add t h a t it was his pleasure to form the acquaintance of Brother WATSON at the time he was first elected Grand Secretary and friendly correspondence continued between us during the remainder of his term of office of Grand Secretary, which was until 1913. M.'. W.: W. M. PLY prepared the usual Report on Correspondence, and we are grateful t o him for a very liberal amount of space in reviewing our 1927 Proceedings. G. R. M. MONTGOMERY M.*. W.*. Grand Master Fort Worth W. B. PEARSON, R . - . W.-. Grand Secretary, Waco. W. M. F L Y , P.'. G.'. M.-., Correspondent, Gonzales. Next Annual, Waco, December 5, 1928.
UTAH —1928. Lodges, 25; members, 5,107; net gain, 170. Salt Lake City, January 17, 1928. DANA TYRRELL SMITH, M.'. W.". Grand Master. M.-. W.-. Brother ARTHUR C . WHERRY, our Grand Representative, was present. From the preface to the Grand Master's address, referring to charity, we quote the following: All charitable requirements are being adequately met by the lodges. In one or two of them conditions exist which are not entirely satisfactory, and yet not of such a character as t o cause very much concern. The location of some of our lodges is not favorable to a growth in membership, nevertheless some of these are doing a splendid work under adverse conditions, and in a few others there are courageous members who are determined to carry on, and we can only commend their sturdy character and lend them every encouragement. In reviewing the activitits of the year it seems there is much to report, and therefore, I shall endeavor to present them to you in as .simple and brief a manner as is possible. Under " Masonic Education", among other things, he submits the following: The members of the Committee on Masonic Education and Instruction have been most diligent in their efforts to promote a program of Masonic Education in the various lodges, and I believe that considerable success has been attained. The Committee will give a detailed report of its activities. There is imdoubtedly an awakened Interest in Masonic Education, and from the reports I have received from the lodges, greater attention has been given to this subject than ever before.
1928-29.
COBBESPONDENCE—UTAH.
353
I have endeavored to the best of my ability to foster Masonic Education. To interest a new member is essential and I know of no better way than by bringing to his attention the history, literature, philosphy and symbolism of Masonry. Even among some of i<he most energetic and enthusiastic Masons misconception of our purposes, and lack of knowledge of our authentic history prevails, and it Is difficult to remove convictions once formed. He compliments the Christian Science Monitor for their splendid articles on Masonry, in the following words: The Christian Science Monitor published a series of articles dally for a period of six weeks from October 17 to November 28, 1927, entitled "What Masons and Kindred Groups Are Doing Today." These articles constitute quite a complete survey of present-day Masonry, and make readily available, in compact form, reliable Masonic information which could not otberwisi. be obtained without great study and research. Copies were furnished each lodge, and if the matter contained therein be used in educational work it should prove the means of disseminating among the Bretliren Masonic iaformation which will tend to remove many of their misconceptions, and to broaden their understanding of the institution. He has the honorable record of having visited each lodge in his jurisdiction during his term of office. He was aided in this work by the Grand Orator, who was frequently called upon to deliver addresses. This certainly speaks well for the brother who occupied t h a t important office. Annually one of their lodges makes a journey to what is termed the Kaibab Forest in Arizona and it is customary for the Grand Master to accompany the brethren, on this trip. Of course they have permission from the Grand Master of Arizona to enter that jurisdiction. The Grand Master in concluding his reference to their journey this year had the following to say: I have not the ability to depict the beauty of the setting of the lodge in that sylvan glade in the forest, lighted by a huge bonfire and the soft glow of the full moon. Because of the novelty and beauty of the surroundings, and the good fellowship whicli prevailed, t h e meeting proved for mt, and I tUnk for all present, a most thrilling and inspiring experience. I have never met a brother who has made the trip to the forest with the Caravan, and attended the meeting of the lodge, who was not most enthusiastic, and I am sure that these meetings have resulted In much good to the lodge, and to those attending, and have created a most favorable Impression of Utah Masonry among the many brethren of other Jurisdictions who have been present. Brother BELT was so enijhuslastic that he has made a promise to bring a carload of Masons from Iowa to make the trip this year, and has written an article on his trip which is well illustrated, and was published in the October issue of the "Grand Lodge Bulletin," the official magazine of the Grand Lodge of Iowa I recommend a pilgrimage with the Caravan oo those of you who may doubt the advisability of continuing these meetings, feeling sure that all your doubt win be removed, and that thereafter you will be warm supporters of t h e enterprise. Our Utah brethren have a law which prohibits Master Masons from applying for so-called "higher degrees" until one year has •elapsed from the time of receiving the Master Mason degree. The
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CORRESPONDENCE—UTAH.
February,
Grand Master's attention was called to a violation of this law and as the officers were not well posted in their own laws this particular good brother received the "higher degrees" in violation of their Grand Lodge regulations. Under "Masonic Clubs" the Grand Master had the following to say: During the year I have heard very little about the activities of Masonic Clubs. On September 2nd, I approved the constitution of the Masonic Club of Fort Douglas, Utah. This club has a building at Fort Douglas used exclusively by the club, and in which regular meetings are held. I have attended one of these meetings, and understand that a great deal of attention is devo^ed to Masonic Education. I n this club enlisted men and officers meet upon the level of equality, discuss their problems and cultivate brotherly friendship. I t has the opportunity of, and I believe it is doing good work. A chapter of Square and Compass, a National Masonic fraternity, known as Ulah Square, exists at the University of Uiah by permission of the authorities. I t provides a meeting place for Masons who attend the University and tends t o promote friendship and fraternal association among them. On January 26, 1927, I was el'ected an honorary member, but I have not had che opportunity of attending any of its meetings The Salt Lake Masonic Club Is still functioning and provides comfortable quarters for its members. I t has recently removed to 1.33 South Main Street, a convenient location where Masons may congregate for social and other purposes. I believe t h a t these various organizadous tend to sustain the Interest of Masons in the fraternity. Since writing the foregoing T received a. co^imiinicatlon from Bro. E, F. GiAi'fOTTi of Helper. Utah, in wliich he enclosed the constitution and by-laws of the "Helper Masoiilo Club," recently organized there, and of wnichhe is the president. I gave my approval to the constitution and by-laws.
From the Report on Necrology we take pleasure in quoting the • following: I t is the hour of sacred memory. In the quietude of this retrospective period as we pause in the routine affairs of the living to recall the blessed memories of the past, we realize that in all our work there is no one act so symbolic of all that is best in Masonry as this backward look whea hand clasps and heart words of yesterday live again. We all shall have two, and but two, memorials. One is the delicate and enduring monument of our daily deeds be they material, or euphonic as the spoken word that seems to die on the breath, but which lives reincarnated in life and memory. What we say today is but the fruit of what our departed fraters did and said that has entered Into the formation of our character. The otlier memorial is that which we endeavor to give our dead, that their memory fade not from the lives of men. In truth this second inemorialls but fleeting at best. The impress of their lives endures in what we are. What we say of them can but vivify and eulogize that impression. We pause and recall their faithfulness, but that faithfulness as rewrought in us today is their great memorial. This indeed is what has made Masonry real unto us. Not the teaching of degrees so much as the teaclilug of the lives Inwrought with Masonry's doctrines, the degrees lived in flesh and blood in coninion ways of life, have ever been the best normal school of our craft. In this hour, then, we are reaching the final test of the worth of our order. Has it developed men the very recollection of whose lives are perennial benefactions? Then it is given the lilghest praise. Will those .who recall our companionsliip gain strength from that recollectionV Then are we Masons worthy of our Craft.
1928-29.
CoBBESPONDENCE—VERMONT.
355
Brother SAM H . GOODWIN, Grand Secretary, prepared the Report on Correspondence, which includes a review of our 1927 Proceedings. ALEXANDER EDWIN EBERHARDT, M.*. W . ' . Grand Master. SAM HENRY GOODWIN, R . \ W.*. Grand Secretary and Correspondent, Salt Lake City. Next Annual, Salt Lake City, January 15, 1929.
VERMONT —1928. Lodges, 103; members, 19,438; net gain, 175. Burlington, June 13, 1928. FREDERICK H . BABBITT, M . ' . W . \ Grand Master. Our Grand Representative, Brother HENRY H . ROSS, who is likewise Grand Secretary, was present as usual. The Grand Master submitted his address and we herewith quote his preface: A hearty welcome to you all, to this the 135th Annual Communication of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Vermont. I t has been said that if the speech is good it is seldom necessary to rebulie the audience for inattention. If it is not good the orator a t least, has no just cause for complaint. M y oratory, such as I am capable of, has been " O n t a p " for the past two years at the many District Meetings, and other meetings, when I have spoken t o you; today the address of your Grand Master will be a plain, businesslike statement of his stewardship during the past year, and confined to the actual business of the Grand Lodge. I n his conclusion he had the following t o say: Notwithstanding other somewhat persistent demands upon my time and strength, some of which I would have gladly avoided, I have placed my duties as Grand Master first of all. Inspired by an ideal of service, and having always in mind the deep obligation I owe to the Masons of Vermont, I have felt that I was an instrument to be used for a purpose, recognized as a mighty one, and determined, if necessary, to be thoroughly worn out before being consigned to the " limbo of forgotten things." If I have fallen short of yovir or my own ideal of what a Grand Master can be and do, I have the consolation of knowing that 1 gave and gave freely the best I had. During my years of service to the craft, and particularly during the last two years as Grand Master, I have often thought that there is no more imperative duty resting upon every member of our Fraternity, as exemplars of the highest ideals of human brotherhood, than to take a rather frequent "Inventory" of our own thoughts and actions and aspirations, to see how, day by day, they accord with our professions, and our vows, to see where we stand on questions of vital import to the peace of the world, t h e advancement of civilization, the salvation of mankind, and our own "destined end, or way.' In closing the last address it will ever be my happy and solemn privilege to make to you.
356
CORRESPONDENCE—VERMONT.
February,
as Grand Master, I would like to leave with you this thought of a "personal inventory," honestly taken by each brother; with Masonic principles and tenets for your guide, remembering that: " T h e hifih soul climbs the high way. And the low soul gropes the low. And in between, on misty Hats, The rest, drift to and fro. Due to every man there opencth, A high way, and a low. And every man decideth The way his soul shall go." From the report of the Committee on Reports of Grand Officers we take pleasure in quoting the following: We would especially emphasize his loyalty as shown in the exercise of his great privilege lor dispensing charity to afflicted flood sufferers thus exemplifying an important tenet of the Order—Brotherly Love. We are conscious that all this was because of the Impulse which prompted fraternal acts rather than compliance with a masonic duty. In the reception of his charitable dispensings we find positive proof of the adage " i t is more blessed to give than receive," which you will note from the hesitancy on the part of most of the distressed to accept a fraternal offering. Whatever else may be possible to "make the whole world k i n " this "touch of n a t u r e " has emphasized the attitude of all brothers towards each other and our Most Worshipful Grand Master was not blind to the discovery that Vermont Masons were loyal to their pledges. Our Most Worshipfiij Brother modestly rcfraias froni any allusion to Ills own great personal loss which the flood catastrophe brought upon him and we in this eoiinecUou desire to express pur hope that his courage to carry on may be stimulated by the Interest of all his masonic friends in all his efforts to regain normalcy once more. Their faithful and efficient Grand Secretary, M.-. W.\ Brother H E N R Y H . ROSS, upon the recommendation of the Grand Master, was made Grand Secretary Emeritus at his present salary. The Grand Lodge is to be complimented in extending this honor to Brother Ross even though with advancing age he can be with them but a few years longer; it is a mark of respect in the annals of the Grand Lodge of Vermont which will reflect credit upon the brethren composing the Grand Lodge at this time of which the future generations will be proud. The Report on Correspondence was again prepared by ARCHIE S. HARRIMAN, Past Grand Master, and we take pleasure in quoting the following words from his " F o r e w o r d " : The question of prohibition has been treated by several Grand Masters, all exhorting their members to obey the law in letter and in spirit. This is of course, a Masonic requirement. The Grand Master of Arizona expresses a sane attitude toward the question. B u t we cannot agree with those who feel that disagreement with the law as interpreted by Congress In the Volstead act is even ijuast-seditlon. We sincerely believe that reason will sometime prevail and Mr. VOLSTEAD and his ilk will be relegated to the nation's attic with other discarded furnitiu-e.
1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—VICTORIA.
357
We rise also to express ovir personal disapproval of the propaganda which would have Masonry undertake the general reformation of society. First let each brother attend to his own purification. Having extracted the beam from his own eye, he will see clearly to free others of their motes. Kansas for 1927 receives attention at his hands and we note t h a t he covers practically all the important transactions at that Communication. He gently passes a bouquet to the writer in a sort of an indirect way in the following words: Bro. ALBERT K . WILSON, Grand Secretary, Historian of Grand Lodge, Grand Librarian and Foreign Correspondent, gives us another excellent review. Would we be far wrong to say he is the busiest Mason—perhaps the busiest man—In Kansas? EDWIN F . GREENE, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, Richford. ARCHIE S . HARRIMAN, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary and Correspondent, Burlington. Next Annual, Burlington, June 12, 1929.
VICTORIA—1927. Lodges, 324; members, 44,793; net gain, 2,703. Quarterly Communication held at St. Kilda, March 12, 1927. W. P. BICE, M . - . W.-. Grand Master. Brother EDWARD THOMAS APPS, our Grand Representative, was present. The address of the Grand Master was very brief; however, we take pleasure in quoting the following few words from his conclusion: In conclusion, I do earnestly wish to impress our Lodges with the necessity of the most careful Inquiry into the character, habits and fitness of t h e candidates who seek admission into our ranks. Many of those admitted during recent years are below the standard we desire and will not stand the test of time; " t h e dignity and high importance of Freemasonry" has not been sufflcleutly stressed, and I do plead for a closer examination by our Lodges. From the minutes of the Quarterly Communication held in Melbourne on June 5, 1927, we note the following interesting words from the remarks of the Grand Master in introducing V.". W.". Brother DiWAN BAHADUR RANGACHARIYAR, Past Grand Registrar, District Grand Lodge of Madras: India Is a great country with a population of 328,000,000. That seems almost Incomprehensible to us with a population of 6,000,000 people only, but it shows the wonderful number of the Inhabitants of India. We particularly wish him to convey to the Grand Lodge of Madras and other parts of India how delighted we have been to receive an ambassador from t h a t great Dominion, which, as I have said, is a large part of the British Empire, of which we are proud to be a part. His coimtry and our country, as well as Great Britian, are partners In a greater or less degree of the British Empire, which extends over every quarter of the globe. On behalf of this Grand Lodge I
358
COBBESPONDENCE—VIRGINIA.
February,
convey to you. Very Worshipful Brother, our pleasure and gratiflcation at having you here amongst us, and I again welcome you to this Grand Lodge. 1 m a y also mention that a former Governor of this State, as well as a former Grand Master, LOKD CABMICHAEL, went to Madras from Victoria, and became Grand Master of the District Grand Lodge of Madras. That forms another link between our distinguished visitor and this Grand Lodge.' I n response, this distinguished guest, among other things, had the following to say: I may inform you. Brethren, that India is not behindhand in Freemasonry, and we are determined to go along further. Sometimes the people there are friendly, and sometimes unfriendly; but that cannotlbe said when they meet In Masonic Lodges. I take part in the Ceremonies as well as those who call themselves Christians. Here there is a one-color platform, but do not forget whatever, that, when we meet together in Lodges, we leave aside our nationalities and our pride of race or caste, and we feel ourselves on the most intimate friRTiHlv terms as Brethren. I t is said t h a t in Freemasonry one finds a large and true Brotherhood, and t h a t can be said to be equally true so far as India is concerned. We are not as strong in numbers in India as you are in Australia, but we possess the true spirit of understanding. The Report on Correspondence was prepared by R.\ W.\ Brother WILLIAM STEWART, Grand Secretary, and in this review we find a brief reference to our 1927 Proceedings, written by Brother E. T. APPS, our Grand Representative. His review is all right as far as it goes, but it only goes a short way. His Excellency, Lnpn SOMMEP.S, M.". W.". Grand Master, Melbourne. WILLIAM STEWART, R . ; . W.-. Grand Secretary, Melbourne.
VIRGINIA —1928. Lodges, 353; members, 48,558; net gain, 625. Richmond, February 14, 1928. JAMES BOWMAN, M.-. W.-. Grand Master. Prom the preface to the Grand Master's address we quote the following: I a m fully convinced that the personal and fraternal contact of your Leader with the brethren, not only enlarges the Leader's appreciation of his privileges, but deepens his sense of love and obligation to his GOD, his bretliren and his duty. I t enlarges his feelings of uuworthiness, but Incites lum to gladly make any necessary sacrifice in the line of that duty. / • I can conceive of no stronger tie that can bind men than that of the Mystic Cabletow, which taking us on the level of humanity, seeks to lead us along the paths of rectitude and love and thus fit us for the fellowship of the Saints and servants of our GOD; and when I contemplate the ennobling lessons of our Bitual and its incentives to better living, I can understand why the greatest men of all ages haVe counted it an honor to be enrolled among our membership, extend our privileges and patronize our assemblies.
1928-29.
'
CORRESPONDENCE—VIRGINIA.
359
Under the head of "Necrology" he first refers to the death of t h a t venerable and wise Freemason, JOSEPH WILLIAM EGGLBSTON, whose
Reports on Correspondence were considered among the best ever prepared by any brother assigned to this work. The Grand Master had the following to say concerning this subject: His Masonic career is known to the brethren of this domain, for he served them as a Member of the Committee on Work, and through all the chairs of our Grand Lodge. For many years he was our Foreign Correspondent, and, as such, brought distinction to the Craft, of this Grand Jurisdiction. As a result of his death, we will not this year have our usual report on Foreign Correspondence.
The Grand Master made a splendid recommendation to the effect that before a lodge could request another lodge to confer one or more degrees on an elected candidate he should have first received the First Degree in the lodge petitioned. We regret to note that the Grand Lodge, through its Committee on Jurisprudence, took an opposite view and the recommendation therefore fell by the wayside. To the notion of the writer the Committee on Jurisprudence made a serious mistake in failing to approve the suggestion of the Grand Master. From his conclusion we take pleasure in quoting the following: To be good men and true, is the first lesson we are taught in Masonry and if that lesson has been properly impressed upon the apprentice's mind, the tide of time and the changes of fortune may not erase the memory of his first answer within your Lodge, and, as the days go by, the reflections Incident to that first voluntary act upon his part will be as a beacon light to guide him under the trials of disappointments of after years; and as his steps descend into the "valley of lengthening shadows," it will bend above his head that bow of hope and promise that shall never fail the faithful servants of a gracious GOD.
To be a MASON is a great honor; to be appointed to serve the Craft, in any capacity, a privilege; but, to be called to the exalted position of GRAND MASTER of more than Fifty Thousand, true and loyal Brethren of the Mystic Tie, is above the price of rubies and an heritage of which even the fourth generation may Indeed be proud.
We note with a feeling of sadness that our Grand Representative was not present at this Communication. There is no Report on Correspondence. WILLIAM L . DAVIS, M.-. W . ' . Grand Master, Portsmouth. JAMES M . CLIFT, R / . W.-. Grand Secretary and Correspondent,
Richmond. Next Annual, Richmond, February 12, 1929.
360
COHUESPONDENCE—WASHINGTON.
February,
WASHINGTON —1927. Lodges, 264; members, 47,818; net gain, 1,409. Seattle, June 21, 1927.
WALTER F . M E I E R ,
M.-. W.-. Grand
Master. We note from the list of Grand Representatives present that our own was "found missing". An address of welcome was delivered by W.". Brother WILLIAM J. STEINERT, and we take pleasure in quoting the following: I t is not for me to charge this great gathering of thoughtful men concerning their duty. The importance and gravity of the work, and the fact that you are here is a sufficient guaranty that that duty will be well performed. I t is rather for me, in somewhat ligliter vein and with joyous heart, to meet ^r/^n o •". ^Mr^ r\n,^y, nnrt
Ki rl i . . ^ , , nn*-n^
*-.-. r.trt-nnr1
*• n -.r^,, <-lm «in-V.4- V. .. « .^ ^e f^i r^-n ri ^\^t ^
and sound the note of welcome. As the right hand has ever been a token of sincerity and a pledge'of fidelity among us, may the extension of our right hands to you be a gesture of warm sincerity, and their grasp in turn by yours be the seal of fidelity among us all.. And may I add this: In all the serious business to follow, may we be serious, but not too serious; may we remember that there are things to be done of grave import, b u t may we remember, too, that brotherly-love, for which we strive, finds its conception in a smile, its quickening impulse in a hand shake a u d i t s life in the contact with the soul of a brother. The things we do at this convocation are important, yet they may be obsolete within a year or two; but the friendships here formed, based on common Masonic Interest and purpose, will be lasting. The proceedings of this Annual Communina.tion win be ^^rriTTiit-.+.of? +.f\ t.irr»o Hi,it Tngir evGnt-UEll^'' bs for°'otten '''et the friendships here estabUshed will enter into the very warp and woof of our being and serve to illuminate our pathway to the very twilight of life.
The Grand Master, among other things, had the following to say. in the preface to his address: This is our Seventieth Annual Communication. The circumstances under which we gather are altogether different from those that surrounded the representatives of " T h e Four Old Lodges" who gathered at Olympia to form this Grand Lodge. In those days the boat upon the Sound and river, and the trail through " t h e forest primeval" were the only available means of transportation. Today we travel by rail, by automobile over paved roads, and by airplane, traversing within an hour a distance that required days to accomplish then. Could those pioneers be suddenly transplanted within the present environment they would stand in wonder and awe, bewildered by the magic, as it were, that characterizes our age. Could we be suddenly set down in the midst of the surroundings that encompassed them we would stand in bewilderment as to how we should adjust ourselves t o their primitive ways. But they did not cease to be in 1858; neither have we just arrived. Their lives and ours have been overlapping and so gradual has been the transition that we have accepted the changes as a matter of course. AU of those who were present at the birth of our Grand Lodge are gone. Many of their immediate successors have joined them. In due season we too shall answer the call, for " T o every man upon this earth, Death cometh soon or late."
During his term of office he made a visit to their lodges in Alaska and we take it from the account of this trip that he was well enter-
1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—WASHINGTON.
361
tained and the brethren in that far off section of our land were highly pleased with his presence. His last official act on this journey was that of laying the corner-stone of the Northern Light Presbyterian Church. It requires eight pages of the Proceedings to record the decisions of the Grand Master, showing conclusive lack of interest of many of the Masters in looking up the law themselves. We note the questions submitted in a very large majority of cases were fully covered in their laws. The following recommendation was approved by the Grand Lodge: No Mason shall exhibit any Masonic emblem upon any sign, flag or banner, except in a Masonic procession, nor upon any place of business or in connection with any business advertisement; nor use any such emblem or the word " M a s o n " or the words " F o r Masons Only" or " F o r Masons and their Families Only," or words, whether of similar or different import, constituting an appeal based on Masonic membership or relationship, or make any reference thereto In connection with any private business of any insurance or other enterprise whatever, whether the same be conducted by a stock company, a mutual company, association or individual, and regardless of purpose; and any Mason who shall accept employment with, or shall transact business with, or solicit business for, any person, association, company or corporation in violation of the provisions hereof, shall be guilty of unmasonic conduct; and any Mason who shall from a place without the Grand Jurisdiction of Washington send Into said Grand Jurisdiction any literature constituting a violation of the provisions hereof, shall be subject to discipline by any Lodge within this Grand Jurisdiction if personal service of charges of umasonic conduct can be made within this Grand Jurisdiction; provided that this section shall not apply to Masonic books, journals, or periodicals or to legitimate trade in Masonic supplies, but any Freemason engaged in the business of publishing any Masonic book, journal or periodical who permits the printing of any advertisement in any such publication, using the word "Mason," or words " F o r Masons Only" or " F o r Masons and their families," or any other term, sign or symbol of Freemasonry for any commercial or other business enterprise, the use of which Is prohibited hereby, shall be guilty of unmasonic conduct. Upon his recommendation the following was adopted: No Lodge shall issue, furnish or endorse any letter or document to any other person whomsoever, or to any organization, to be used for business orbegging purpose; nor by circular, letter or otherwise solicit pecuniary assistance or donations of money for any purpose whatsoever, from any Lodge or Mason in this or any other Jurisdiction or from the general public; nor shall any Lodge entertain or permit to be read in Lodge any begging letter from Masons or Lodges of other juiisdictions or from other sources, unless such letters shall have received the approval of the Grand Lodge or the Grand Master of this Jurisdiction which approval shall appear on the face of such letter; nor shall any Mason circulate in any Lodge a petition asking for financial aid for any matter or thing not of a strictly Masonic character. Under the same head the following was approved: The purchase, sale, use or possession of cipher work or rituals, or any key or guide, pertaining or purporting to pertain to the three symbolic degrees of Masonry without the approval of the Grand Lodge or Grand Master, is for-
362
CORRESPONDENCE—WASHINGTON.
February,
bidden. And the purchase, sale, use or possession thereof without such approval is hereby declared to be unmasonic conduct, and any Mason found guilty of violating this provision shall be expelled. From his conclusion we talte pleasure in quoting the following: The record of my year has been written. I can neither add to it, nor substract from it. To say that I would not change it if I could Is not to give expression to a feeling of self-satisfaction, but rather to the thought that whatever was done was prompted solely from a desire to render to my Brethren the greatest service of which I was capable, under the limitations that naturally circumscribe human effort. Many times I have wondered whether I would have the physical strength and endurance to carry the burden to the close of the day. At such times there came to me the profession I made in answer to t h e question propounded to me a t the threshold of Masonry, when on bended knee I acknowledged that I placed my trust in GOD. When one realizes his own limitations then it is that he acquires his greatest strength, and so I believe that my abilit.v to "carry on'* hfl..9 hee" due in no small degree t c a realization that I could not accomplish what I ought by a reliance merely upon human powers. This record, presented as completely as time and space will permit, now lies before you. I t is your right to sit in judgment upon it. If any part of It shall not meet with your approval I shall regret that I did not have the wisdom to make it otherwise; if it shall meet your approval the knowledge of effort conscientiously made will be my reward. A most interesting history of Masonry in Washington was presented by their Grand Historian, W:. Brother CHARLES M . SHERMAN, and the several pictures included therein, to the notion of the VvTitGr, adds very great interest to his paper. The likeness of Past Grand Secretary THOMAS MILBURNE REED, and the picture of the Masonic Temple in Olympia appeal strongly to the writer of this report as he distinctly calls to mind a most pleasant visit with Brother R E E D in this building forty years ago this coming August. The friendship established a t t h a t time between Brother R E E D and the writer continued uninterrupted up to the time of his death. He was indeed a wonderful Mason and one of the most profound Masonic scholars we have ever met. I t is therefore most gratifying to see t h a t the good brethren of Washington are not unmindful of the importance of the subject now in the hands of Brother SHERMAN, which we are certain will prove of great value to the Craft in years to come. The Report on Correspondence was again prepared by M.: W.: Brother EDWIN H . VANPATTBN, and although his name does not appear either in the beginning or at the end of the report we are constrained to believe t h a t he did the work and as his preface is very interesting we are taking the liberty of quoting it in its entirety: In reading the proceedings of the various Grand Lodges, we have come across many very interesting matters which must eventually influence the action of the Grand Lodges themselves. Among them we find the matter of extraneous bodies which have attached themselves, at least in the minds of the public, to the Masonic Institution. I t matters not under what name these bodies masquerade, the very fact that they take their membership solely
1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—WASHINGTON.
363
from those who have taken certain Masonic degrees, Is enough to brand such bodies as Masonic in the view taken by the outside world. During the past fifty years there have grown up a multitude of extraneous organizations of this character, from Masonic Clubs to the Shrine and the Grotto, all of which are presumably taking their members, directly or indirectly, from Masonic sources. Whether this is for the good of Masonry or not is a question. In a way this reminds the student of the widespread agitation for so-called Masonic Degrees which occurred in the eighteenth century. They seemed to spring up almost over night, and their relationship to the Masonic Institution was as tenuous as t h a t which now exists between the Grotto and Masonic Lodge. A general sifting out and a remodeling of the remainder had to be underaken before anything like order came out of the chaos thus created. The repetition of this craze for new degrees Is causing alarm among the wiser members of the Craft, and we find Grand Masters, and even Grand Lodges, issuing their complaints over this condition of affairs, and it begins to look as though some drastic action would become necessary in order to free the Masonic Institution from the tightening grip of these outside organizations. In a sense they remind us of the tropic vines which cling to the mighty trees of the forest for support, until there comes a time when they choke the tree to death and rise above its ruins in parasitic strength and usurped grandeur. It has been maintained that Masonry can not prevent any Mason from joining these, extra Masonic bodies, any more than it can prevent its members from joining the Odd Fellows, the Knlghis of Pythias or even the Church. While this is true, yet we wish to call attention to the fact that, when any such organization causes its members to violate their vows as Masons, or to participate in acts which are under the ban of Grand Lodges, such members a t once become amenable to Masonic law and can be dealt with personally for such acts. The mere fact of belonging to an organization which allows or abets the violation of Masonic law, or permits acts which are not permitted by civil law, does not free any Mason from his allegiance to his Lodge nor free him from his vows as a Mason. One Grand Lodge has found it necessary to order Masonic trials for offenses against Masonic morality, and the brethren so tried were found guilty. The fact that the offense was committed under the guise of another organization did not hinder or even inconvenience the action of the Lodge trying them. The sad part of the whole matter lies in the fact that at the next election of officers of the "extraneous body, the principal offender was re-elected to the highest office in the gift of the body. On the surface this looks like a direct protest against any interference from Masonic sources against anything which the parasitic body wishes to do. This attitude of Masons toward the highest authority known to Masonry, is a sad commentary upon the character of those who were responsible for this practical defiance of the authority of Grand Lodge. The Grand Master, in speaking of this matter says in part: "Such lack of true allegiance to the sovereignty of Grand Lodge and obedience to its constituted authority, which is the solemn obligation of every Mason, may not pass without notice, and should be the serious concern of any brother who has permitted himself to fall into such an unfortunate habit of thinking. When obedience to the laws and regulations fails, and when Grand Lodge fails to enforce Its authority, the Institution will become a rope of sand, and the decay of Freemasonry is at hand." If Masons fail to remember their obligations and Insist on violating their Masonic vows, then it will be necessary for Grand Lodges to absolutely take charge of the offenders and throw them out of the Fraternity. No half way proceedings will do. The body of Masonry must be freed from the parasites which threaten to choke i t ' t o death; the axe must be laid at the root of the extraneous growth and the body of Masonry freed from its encircling folds.
364
CORRESPONDENCE—WASHINGTON.
February,
The above is written in sorrow over the necessity for harsh words, and we recognize that this is delicate ground for any one to tread upon, but we cannot remain quiet when we see the danger, and realize that it is imminent. The danger is made more serious by the fact that the recent rush for Masonic degrees leaves us in doubt as to the quality of some of the material which we are now trying to assimilate, and the difficulty in educating a crowd of candidates in the short time allowed. Again the haste to get through the basic body in order to get to the "Play-ground" as some have called it, is a sure sign of lack of appreciation of the Masonic Institution as such; and " i n an age where commercialism has run rampant through all ethics; when the church has lost its hold upon the minds of thinking men; when science is concentrating Its every effort upon material things; when the archaeologist is discovering t h e remains of primitive man In strata of the earth's crust, which geologists tell us must be hundreds of thousands of years old; when atheistic teaching is tainting our schools and colleges; when the physical body of man Is being glorified on the athletic field and in the boudoir; when all culture is turning from the spiritual to the material ideals; ' t begins to look gloomy and dark for a future of sane and honest religious belief.'' The only hope that we can see is for Masonry, based as it is upon the doctrine of monotheism and Immortality, to hold fast to the eternal verities, and free itself from all entangling encumbrances. If we can do this, may it not be probable that, even under this discouraging set of facts which are now features of modern thought, Masonry may yet become the rallying ground for the remn a n t of GOD fearing and reverent men? As one brother has graphically declared, " C a n it be possible that, our great Institution is yet to be the oasis in the desert of modernism about which the forces of conservative religious rteaching is to rally? " In writing the above we have quoted freely from the words of Grand ;Ma5tei5, uf HoTiewei-s, aiiu oiibers who are- deeply interested in the question •of keeping pure the fountain of Masonic ideals: and while we helnng to ?o"ie of Tthese outside organizations, yet we feel deeply the danger which seems to be jgrowlng out of the unwise action of enthusiastic brethren, and feel that it is •only necessary to call the attention of the average Mason to the suicidal tendency of all such untoward acts as have been condemned so Uberaily, for correctivemeasures to be applied in those organizations themselves. This question is one that is outstanding In its importance, for Masonry is getting the blame for the actions of some of these "playful" Masons, and we see in the public press statements which cause many a blush to come to the honest member of t)he Fraternity. I t will not do for us to condone and forgive, because of the effect that is being produced upon the public mind. Either the corrective measures must be applied within the offending bodies, or they must be discarded by Masonry.
In his formal report we find a splendid review of our 1927 Proceedings. ROBERT A. WILSON, M . ' . W . \ Grand Master, Spokane. HORACE W . TYLER, R.-. W.-. Grand Secretary, Tacoma. EDWIN H . VANPATTEN, P.-. G.-. M.-., Correspondent. (No ad-
dress given.) Next Annual, Tacoma, June 19, 1928.
1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—WEST
VIRGINIA.
365
WEST VIRGINIA —1927. Lodges, 167; members, 34,077; net gain, 571. Huntington, November 16, 1927. FRANK W . VANHORN, acting Grand Master. Brother PARE H . LORENTZ, our Grand Representative, was present. The first order of business was the introduction of distinguished visitors and the Grand Representatives. Brother FRANK W . VANHORN submitted a brief address, from which we quote the following: The privilege of welcoming you to the G3rd Annual Communication of, our Grand Lodge which, under ordinary circumstances, might well be coveted, is today mingled with extreme sadness. The shadow of death has fallen upon us; he whom we expected to occupy this station and to greet you is no longer in the flesh. Another for a brief period takes his place. Our heads are bowed in grief; our hearts go out in tender sympathy to the bereaved. For the first time in the history of this Grand Lodge the ruthless hand of death has been laid upon the head of the Order and its Grand Master stricken from the roll of the living. Truly, a good man has fallen. In reflecting upon his life and character we may say with BTJNTAN, " L e t dissolution come when It will, It can do the Christian no harm, for it will be but a passage out of a prison into a palace; out of a sea of trouble into a haven of rest; out of a crowd of enemies, t o an Innumerable company of true, loving, and faithful friends; out of shame, reproach, and contempt, into exceeding great and eternal glory." While Bro. WORKMAN is gone his work remains; ours is the task to carry on. For eleven months our Grand Master devoted himself untiringly to the discharge of the manifold duties of his great office. The report of his work was in course of preparation a t the time of his sudden death. This will be completed by P. G. Master COWDEN and by him presented to this body. The esteem and affection in which Bro. WOBKMAN was held was amply attested by the large number of his brethren, friends and' neighbors, who accompanied his remains to their last resting place. Suitable tributes will be paid to his memory by this Grand Lodge a t the proper time and In the usual manner.. During the thirty-day incumbency of the office of Grand Master by virtue of succession to its duties our labors have been without particular consequence. The usual exchange of courtesies has been handled through our efficient and gifted Grand Secretary and will And place in his report. This is also true of t h e expressions of condolence received from other grand jurisdictions upon our recent loss. Following this Past Grand Master WILLIAM K. COWDEN presented the address of their late Grand Master, preliminary to which he offered the following remarks: Brethren of the Grand Lodge, my connection with the work of the Grand Master has been explained to you by the Acting Grand Master of this Grand Lodge. My very presence a t this stage a t this time is significant. H e who would, and should have been here, has passed on. The address is just as largely as I could make it his ideas and is partly In his own words. I t is to you, not a voice from the grave, but a voice from beyond the tomb. Some of these are the very words he would have said to you at this hour. On the day before he died he took his pencil and wrote out the opening paragraph of this address.
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CORRESPONDENCE—WEST
VIRGINIA.
February,
I don't know whether he completed It or not, but on another page he wrote his " Conclusion." I am reading those two paragraphs just as he wrote them, and to you they are a message from the dead. Explanatory Note: Most Worshipful WILLIAM TAYLOR WORKMAN, Grand Master of Masons in West Virginia, died on Monday, October 17th, 1927. The Grand Lodge year was nearing its close, and the Grand Master was about to begin the preparation of his address and report. At the request of Most Worshipful FRANK W . VAN HORN, Acting Grand Master, I have prepared for the Grand Lodge the following report, made up from the records and papers left by our late Grand Master. The opening paragraph is given verbatim as it was written in pencil by Brother WORKMAN on t h e day preceding his death. Lilcewise, the "Conclusion" was written by Brother WORKMAN at the same time, and is herein given verbatim.
From the preface t o the Grand Master's address we take pleasure in quoting the following: Since we last met in Grand Annual Communication another year has fled. Another wave is spent upon the shores of time. Another link is added to the long chain of years that reaches beyond t h e flood. When the truths of Freemasonry permeate our lives there will be a glorious unfolding of true brotherly love such as the world has not yet seen. This ancient Craft of Freemasonry, so ancient that its story runs back into a far time where history and legend blend, and which we reckon among the most precious possessions of mankind, should be a constant source of thankfulness to us. What of the fatuix, dim and unknown, in the years that lie ahead of u.s? One tiling is certain; No matter what chances and changes the coming years may bring, the Temple of Freemasonry vrill stand for the reality of the love of GOD; for the dignity and worth of man; and for old time-tried tenets which were true ages ago, and will be true in ages yet to come.
We take pleasure in quoting the following words from his conclusion : Just forty years ago in this month, for the first time I attended the Annual Communication of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of West Virginia, then held in the City of Charleston. Since that time I have never missed an Annual Communication of this Grand Lodge. I t has always been a very great source of pleasure to me to attend the Annual Communication of our Grand Lodge, where we renew our acquaintance with those whom we have met before, and form new acquaintances and associations. Brother L E W I S N . TAVENNER, Chairman of the Committee on
Correspondence, presented the usual report, in which we find a review of our 1927 Proceedings, and we take the liberty of quoting his comments concerning the writer: This being our third attempt at review we have already learned to appreciate as well as enjoy the comments and expressions of personal opinions of reviewers and we thank Bro. WILSON for his welcome to the Round Table and his courteous review of West Virginia. And from his comments are led to infer t h a t he Is not favorably impressed with the " p r e m i u m " proposition of gift of the Bible to the newly raised brother: t h a t it would be ridiculous to perform
1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—WESTERN
AUSTRALIA.
367
*ihe beautiful Masonic funeral service unless the Lodge be opened and closed in the usual manner: that symbolic Masonry consists of three degrees and has no conneciion or afBUation with so called co-ordinant or kindred body or dual membership, to all which we readily respond " So mote it be." FRANK W . VANHORN, M . - . W . ' . Grand Master, Martinsburg. GEORGE S . LAIDLEY, R.". W.-. Grand Secretary, Charleston. LEWIS N . TAVENNER, P.'. G.'. M.-., Correspondent, Parkersburg. Next Annual, Huntington, October 3, 1928.
WESTERN AUSTRALIA-1928. Lodges, 124; members, 8,117; net gain, 450. Quarterly Communication held at Boulder, August 25, 1927. Brother A. C. MCCALLUM, Deputy Grand Master, presiding. Our Grand Representative, R.'. W.\ Rev. F. S. FINCH, was present. In presenting his address the Deputy Grand Master refers to the absence of their Grand Master, and we take the following few words from that subject: You all know the anxiety he is suffering owing to the lack of news of his son who was sent to China on duty, and who mysteriously disappeared some weeks ago. Under the circumstances, you will realize that it would be inadvisable for him to be away from home just now, even for so short a period. Next is a Quarterly Communication held at Perth, November 24, 1927. C. O. L. RILEY, M.-. W.-. Grand Master. Under the head of " T h e Festive Board" we quote the following: As the Master is responsible for the conduct of the Festive Board, just as he is responsible for the affairs of the Lodge in the Lodge Room, he should be particularly careful to see that nothing occurs which might be considered derogatory to the dignity of the institution or unworthy of its glorious traditions. There is no place at the Festive Board of the Craft for any suggestive song or story or anything that is calculated to lower the dignity of Freemasonry, so I trust Masters will be watchful and do everything in their power to elevate the proceedings of the Social Board. From what I can gather there is very little to complain about on the whole, but now and again one hears of songs being sung and stories being told wtuch could very well have been omitted to the advantage of all concerned. The proceedings.outside the Lodge should not be inconsistent with what takes place inside. The next Quarterly Communication was held in Perth, February 23, 1928. C. O. L. RILEY, M.-. W.-. Grand Master. Referring to the absence of their Grand Secretary the Grand Master had the following to say: Most of you know that the Grand Secretary had to undergo an operation early in December last, and we all sadly miss him from this evening's gathering. I am pleased to say he is at home and well on the way to recovery. Need-
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CORRESPONDENCE—WESTERN-AUSTRALIA.
February,
less to say I miss his cheery visits to my office more than anyone else. I think we should send a telephone message from brethren assembled In Grand Lodge conveying our great sympathy in his illness and wishing him a speedy recovery. Under the head of "Nomination and Election of Grand Master" we quote the following from the remarks of R.'. W.: Brother J. P. WALTON:
I t is not usual to make any speech on this occasion, but I crave your indulgence, as an old Freemason, just to make one remark. I tUnk you will all acknowledge that it is a truism to say that every West Australian Freemason reverences and respects our brother the Archbishop; in fact, I think it would be better to say t h a t every West Australian Freemason loves him. During the many years, twenty-two I think it is, in succession, that he has occupied the chair, that respect, reverence and affection has grown year by year, until now we can say without fear of contradiction, t}ia.t n^^r Archbishop is the best loved Freemason in this .State, and we can go further and say that he is the best loved citizen in the State. X will conclude by uttering the prayer that our brother may be spared for many years to carry on his great work outside Freemasonry, and that our beloved Fraternity may be endowed with the dignity of his high position, and with the sweetness and strength of his personality. I nominate His Grace the Archbishop. At the Quarterly Communication held in Perth on May 24, 1928, we note the following in the address of the Grand Master: I desire to emphasize the fact that the appointment to Grand Office is a personal one and i.^ not inLeLiueu as a recognition of the claims of some particular Lodge or some particular town or district, although sometimes these matters are taken into consideration. While I am always desirous of rewarding good work to t h e best of my ability and knowledge of the circumstances, I musv continually iceep in view the ability of the Brother to serve Grand Lodge during his year of office. No Brother should therefore accept ofHce in Grand Lodge unless he can clearly see his way to give both the time and the service necessary to the proper discharge of his duties. We quote the above as we find in our own jurisdiction certain brethren who after having been honored with an important appointment, feel they have a life tenure on the office, and when some other brother is appointed to fill this office at the expiration of the term for which they were appointed these good brethren take exception. This subject also calls to the mind of the writer a remark made by our first Grand Master to the effect t h a t a Mason should neither seek nor decline office. In the Report on Correspondence prepared by Brother JAMES ' W. E. ARCHDEACON, referring to our 1928 Proceedings we find the following, having reference to the small amount of annual dues charged by our lodges: Judged by Australian standards, Blue Masonry in Kansas appears cheap so far as annual dues are concerned. In one Lodge these are, in our currency, 6s. 3d.; in 71 they run from 8s. 4d. to l i s . 8d.; in 327, from 12s. (id. to £1 Os. lOd.; and in :?0 from JEI I s . l i d . to £2 i s . 8d. In only three Lodges do the annual dues reach the last-named figure. Possibly, in the remaining number of Lodges—a score—which furnished no such returns, there might be higher
1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—WISCONSIN.
369
dues. Doubtless, in regard to a considerable number of the 80,000 and odd brethren belonging to Blue Masonry, who are also members of cryptic and capitular bodies, the total dues paid annually by- each reaches a considerable sum, but, all the same, Craft Masonry certainly exacts no heavy subscription In the shape of dues for the privilege of belonging to the Order and working for its objects. Referring to Grand Master FOWLER'S reference to dramatized
Ritual Work he had the following to say: In this, Bro. FOWLER referred more particularly to the ceremony of the Third Degree. In some American Jurisdictions—Kansas for one—they use both the standard and dramatic forms; in others the latter receives preference. Its spectacular character being-regarded as more impressive than a purely symbolic ceremony, such as we practice in the greater part of the British Empire, Australia included, and which we consider more in keeping with a system of morality veiled in allegory and illustrated with symbols. One of the unfortunate results of the dramatic form has been the organization of professional Third Degree teams, and, like other Grand Masters in the United States, Bro. FOWLER does not view them favorably.
Referring to the retirement of the writer as Grand Secretary he had the following to say: The Grand Secretary, E.'. W .•. Bro. A. K. WILSON, while again accepting that office, asked Grand Lodge to relieve him from it. He felt that an important duty devolved upon him of assisting in the preparation of a complete history of Kansas Masonry, and said that, with his advancing years, If he were to do this work, it was highly important that it be done at the earliest possible moment. Bro. AVILSON has been Grand Secretary of Kansas for thirty-five years, and has only been absent from the Annual Communications of forty-five years on one occasion, this absence being due to serious illness. He has also, for many past years, held similar ofBce in the York Rite Bodies of Kansas. The records of these Bodies, as well as those of Grand Lodge, testify no less to the value of his services than does the warm affection with which he is regarded by all his brethren. The testimony of Grand Lodge to his zeal for the Craft was exhibited by the passage of a resolution that at such time as he might elect to relinquish his office he should become Grand Secretary Emeritus, that his salary and honorarium allowance be paid during the remainder of his life, and that the work of preparing a history of the Craft in Kansas be placed in his hands. C. O. L. RILEY, M.-. W.-. Grand Master. J. D. STEVENSON, R . ' . W.-. Grand Secretary, Perth.
WISCONSIN —1928. Lodges, 311; members, 60,305; net gain, 1,479. Milwaukee, June 12, 1928.
HERBERT W . DIXON, M.-. W.". Grand
Master. We quote the following words from the preface to the Grand Master's address: Let me remind you that you are here as the trusted respresentati ves of your several Lodge memberships, for whom in all things that come before us you will think, speak and act. Let no one hesitate, therefore, to make himself heard on whatever he conceives to be for the real good of the Craft and for the benefit of our Brethren back home.
370
CoBBESPONDENCE—WISCONSIN.
February,
With these thoughts foremost in our minds, may we approach the tasks that confront us, unbiased, with no thought of personal advancement, kind, fair, charitable and tolerant. Let us think clearly and act flrmly. Our responsibility to propagate the continued well-being of the Craft; to act so as to retain the universal respect in which Freemasonry is held, is an individual obligation.
Under "Condition of the Craft" he had the following to say: This appears to be a healthy sign. Too many Lodges have been more concerned with adding to their membership, enriching their treasury or in building new Temples than in inquiring whether or not a petitioner has the right kind of heart and is potential Masonic timber. Our requirements have been unconsciously lowered and too many initiates give scant heed to the three Constitutional questions that should be fundamental. Too many men receive the degrees and are straightway lost to us except as they pay dues. This is a dangerous condition. If it is worth wMIe to accept a petitioner and confer the degrees upon him, It is also worth while to make an effort to retain Us interest in the Fraternity. I t would seem the part of wisdom to call a halt in the conferring of degrees and devote a portion of our energies to assimilating the members already within our ranks. Our duty to them is more compelling than any obligation resting upon us t o make new Masons. I would suggest that new petitioners be scrutinized with greater care and that each Lodge undertake an educational program among its membership.
During the year the Grim Reaper called their Junior Grand Warden, FRANKLIN E . DIEBERT, and in referring to this distinguished
brother the Grand Master had the following to say: Brother DIEBEBT was a fine example of Masonic manhood. He would have been of untold usefulness to this Grand Lodge had be been permitted to live. The Craft has suffered an irreparable loss.
We quote the following from the subject of " Charity": Masonry does not parade before the eyes of the world the charity she extends but we may be sure it is substantial. We need not feel ashamed of the sum total that is expended for this purpose (were it known) by individual Masons, by Constituent Lodges, and by Grand Lodge. We should be concerned in removing from among us the causes creating the necessity for Masonic charity quite as much as we are in actually relieving destitution. We ought to recognize that a Brother may require a sympathetic word, spoken in Masonic friendship, as well as financial aid.
From the subject of" Organizations Seeking Masonic Recognition " we quote the following: This is an age of new societies. They spring into being over night in limitless numbers. Many of theni are worthy in themselves and are organized by noble men and women for laudable purposes, yet all of them claiming Masonic affiliation in any form are potentially dangerous to Freemasonry. With those organizations who do not make Masonic standing or relationship a prerequisite to inembership we can have no concern. All others should be discoimtenanced by this Grand Lodge and discouraged by the Craft. If we pursue any other course we shall be faced sooner or later with the need for drastic action.
1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—WISCONSIN.
371
We take pleasure in quoting the following, having reference to Past Grand Master ALDRO JENKS, who prepares the Report on Correspondence: Past Grand Master ALDRO JENKS has for the thirty-flrst time prepared the report on Foreign Correspondence. By his fellow correspondents Brother JENKS is considered one of the giants of the round table, although his modesty does not permit him to repeat the many fine compliments he receives. As a fountain head of information on the doings of the Craft throughout the world, skillfully and interestingly written, I commend his report to your attention and suggest it be read in each of your Lodges. Brother DAVID HARLOWE, our Grand Representative, was present. The Grand Lodge is to be complimented on making their Grand Secretary, Brother WILLIAM WATSON PERRY, Grand Secretary Emeritus, with the same allowance as that paid him while in active service. In considering the splendid resolutions having reference t o this distinguished brother, we take pleasure in quoting the following: The Holy Bible has always been his one text book and GOD his guide. In all his worthy achievements in Masonry the Bible has been to him an inspiration, and whether in the pulpit, pleading for the uplift of humanity, or in the Temples of Freemasonry, pleading with warmth of feeling, equality, fraternity and freedom, justice, obedience to law, the great truths of the Bible and his GOD have largely controlled the inspiration of his thoughts. I t has been my privilege to observe the attitude of mind of our Brother under many trying relations of life. We recall certain years when Brethren with much seriousness were seeking knowledge concerning the bounteous treasures hidden within the quarries. How eager they were to learn, how patiently and earnestly he strove to teach them their hidden meaning. Again we are thinking of his tenderness of heart as he shared our griefs when touched to tears by some great sorrow, of that voice that spoke with a tender caress, who knelt with us in prayer that was a solace to the troubled mind and heart. Remarkable the bond of sympathy, friendship and fraternal affection existing between our good Brother and the Craft. Never any aloofness in his manner, every Brother met in a spirit of brotherhood, his office door wide open as today, all greeted and welcomed most cordially, all departing feeling that they had met a true man and Mason who thinketh in his heart. We sincerely trust that Brother PERRY may be spared to our Wisconsin brethren for a long while in order that they may profit by his almost unlimited scope of Masonic knowledge and experience. From the report of the Committee on Obituaries we quote the following: Hope is the mainspring of human life. When the mainspring is broken, the watch ceases to run. When hope is dead, the man ceases to act. There is no medicine that science has ever discovered so powerful as hope. There is no elixir of courage that will so inspirit an army and send it to victory as hope. No man is defeated so long as hope lives in his breast. No man can be victorious after hope is gone. An Indian on Lake Erie, who had taken to his canoe after being worn out by the chase, fell asleep and drifted into the rapids above Niagara. He did not awake until the current was sweeping his frail boat swiftly to destruction. At last he was aroused by the shouts of horrorstricken spectators on the shore. He sprang to his feet and saw at a glance
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CORRESPONDENCE—WISCONSIN.
February,
that his doom was inevitable. He did not touch the paddle, nor make a single cry, but with the stoicism of his race and the calmness of despair resumed his seat, folding his arms across his breast, and was hurled to his horrible death. Hope had died out of his heart. To explain things that are otherwise unexplainable, we need this hope. To make us steadfast in duty, to make us patient In trial, we need this hope. The more you think of " t h e hopes laid up for you in heaven", the brighter and stronger and purer will your life be here on earth. We will And less fault with the journey if we think oftener of what awaits us at the journey's end.
From the preface to the Report on Correspondence prepared by M.'. W.-. ALDRO JENKS we quote the following: Every Entered Apprentice is told that no Institution was ever raised on a better principle, or more solid foundation; nor were ever more excellent rules and useful maxims laid down, than are inculcated in the several Masonic lectures. These are not words of exaggeration or a mere rhetorical flourish, but are t h e statement merely of a great fact. If one would seek out the great central thought in Freemasonry—the great truth underlying the whole structure, and on which all its wonderful teachings and ideals are founded, he would not have far to go. I t can be found in the first question propounded to the initiate on entering the door of a Lodge and his response thereto. This question has been propounded to many millions of novitiates t h e world over, and, spontaneously from all has come the same reply—from Jew and Gentile, Christian, Mohammedan, Hindoo and those of every religious belief; from peasant and king; from the illiterate savage to the most learned scientist; all find that they can come together in this expression of a common faith. This eonfcssicn may be said to lia the very soul of 1^'reemasonry. t h e thought that vitalizes and creatively dominates every teaching a.nd ideal of the Craft. Jj'rom it spring the teaching of the reverence due from the creature to his Creator; of our taking His Divine Word as the First Great Light of our duty of shaping our lives in obedience to its precepts, and the wisdom of invoking His aid in all oiir laudable undertakings. From it is logically deduced the great tenets of Freemasonry—Brotherly Love, Belief and Truth. From it springs the necessity of observing the cardinal virtues of Temperance, Fortitude, Prudence and Justice—in short, every teaching of the Masonic Institution. Only the fool has said in his heart, " T h e r e is n o G O D . "
We take this opportunity of expressing our appreciation for his kind reference to our 1927 Proceedings. F E E D L . WRIGHT, M . \ W . \ Grand Master, Milwaukee. WILLIAM F . WEILER, R.-. W . \ Grand Secretary, Milwaukee. ALDRO J E N K S , P . - . G . V M . - . , Correspondent, Dodgeville.
Next Annual, Milwaukee, June 11, 1929.
1928-29.
CORBESPONDENCE—WYOMING.
373
WYOMING-1928. Lodges, 46; members, 8,145; net gain, 220^ Cheyenne, August 15, 1928. MARION A. KLINE, M / . W / . G r a n d Master. Immediately following the opening of Grand Lodge a list of deceased Grand Masters and Grand Secretaries was called and we quote the following verse following this mute roll of brethren who had been signally honored by their Grand Lodge: " T h e y are not dead, those brothers—not dead But in the path we mortals tread Gone some few, trifling steps ahead, And nearer to the end. So that you too, once past the bend Shall meet again, face to face, these friends You fancy dead." The Grand Senior Deacon, Brother ELWOOD ANDERSON, responded to an address of welcome, from which we take pleasure in quoting the following: We know that Masonry has a profound influence upon the development of this country. We know that back in the Colonial days the teachings in the lodge rooms were the teachings that made it possible for WASHINGTON and WASHINGTON'S followers to spread the banner of liberty over this country, and we are sure that it was the spirit of Masonry inculcated in the lives of our pioneers in this institution which made it possible for us to have the Masonic lodges we have, to have the institutions of liberty and tolerance and the feeling of brotherly love that prevails throughout our state. After all, if we think of i t seriously, if we benefit from the teachings we receive in the lodge rooms, we are going to be better citizens, we are going to be prepared to do our duty as citizens, as members of our communities, as members of our lodges and as members of our homes. I am sure that coming to the fountainhead of Masonry in this state, the beginning of it, realizing the influence that Masons have had in the progress of our state, knowing that our leading citizens have been Masons, knowing that our Past Grand Master who recently passed away and whose picture we are all wearing (picture of CHARLES N . POTTEB), was inspired by our Masonic teachings, knowing all these things, we are going home from this meeting with a determination to do our duty by being better citizens, better husbands, and better leaders in our community. I am sure we cannot pay Cheyenne and the Cheyenne lodges any greater tribute than to say that we know the reception you are giving us and the lessons and inspirations we m i l receive, will make us all go home feeling and being better Masons for having been here. We quote the following from the preface to the Grand Master's %ddress: When and where Masonry originated we do not know. Masonry, as we now know it, is of comparatively recent origin, but the origin of Masonry and Masonic teachings is lost in the mists of antiquity. However, we can readily believe that at some time in the remote past, some early philosopher, pondering over the great problems of human life and human destiny, seeing that all men came into the world helpless and similar in physical endowments and that Death, the great leveler, made the king and the peasant equal when they entered
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CORRESPONDENCE—WYOMING.
February.
the silence of the grave, conceived the idea of a union or fraternity which should recognize the fact that there is working back of and through this universe " a divinity that shapes our ends" and that all men are equal In His Sight. From some such humble beginning, this great institution has grown and flourished until today it is one of the forces, if not the greatest force in the world, working for civil and religious liberty, for equal rights to all, and for the education and enlightenment of humanity.
Under the head of "Masonic Clubs" the Grand Master seems to be overflowing with zeal as indicated by the following: For several years there have been in existence In this jurisdiction two Masonic clubs, the Big Horn Basin Masters' Club and the Central Wyoming Masonic Club. These clubs have been of inestimable value in their respective localities in securing uniformity of the work and in promoting the true Masonic spirit. After my attendance at the annual meetings of these clubs, I was so Impressed with the work that was being accomplished by them, that I urged upon the brethren clscv.hcrc in the state the formaliuu uf similar clubs. In accordance with such suggestion, the Masters of the three Cheyennelodges addressed a letter to the lodges of Southeastern Wyoming inviting them to meet at Cheyenne on May 12th, 1928, for the purpose of exempllflcation of the work of the various degrees and considering the formation of a Masonic Club In that section of the state.
To the notion of the writer the so-called "Masonic Clubs" of today have more to do with the lack of interest and non-attendance at the Communications of our lodges than any other one factor, not even excluding the automobile and picture shows. Be thi? as it may, we v/onder how the Grand Master reconciles his zeal for Masonic clubs with the following words, taken from his address under the head of "Other Masonic Bodies": Personally I have nothing against any of these organizations: in fact, I belong to many of them, but it does seem to me that the time has come when as a Grand Lodge we should impress upon our membership that here in the Blue Lodge in the three degrees is found all the substance of Masonry, and that the so-called higher Masonic bodies only add the frills—and sometimes the thrills —thereto. I am Impelled to make these remarks because it seems to me that many of , our brethren have a very erroneous conception of Masonic values. They seem to think that there is some magic in the wearing of a Knight Templar uniform or a Shrine button or in being a thirty-third degree Mason that at once raises such brother far above the common level, irrespective of what his life and character may be or what his services to Masonry may have been. In fact, many of the brethren seem to think that a thirty-third degree Mason is higher in rank than a Grand Master of this Grand Lodge. I t certainly is contrary to the spirit of Masonry for Masons to be rushed through the several degrees of the various bodies m t h o u t having time to digest or to carefully consider the teachings already received; or for any Masonic organization to solicit others to become members thereof. Further, all true Masonry is democratic, the power and authority being vested in the members themselves, while some of these so-called higher bodies are decidedly autocratic, the authority being vested in some so-called supreme power, and the members thereof having no power or authority of any kind. For these reasons I have deemed It best to call the attention of this Grand Lodge to this subject, hoping that some action may be taken by this Grand
1928-29.
CORRESPONDENCE—WYOMING.
375
Body in order to remedy 'these conditions, if possible, and tiiat tlie bretiiren tlirougiiout this Grand Jurisdiction may be properly instructed as to the true Masonic values. . . Of course t h e reference t o no one p a r t i c u l a r organization in fact presents' t h e subject in a sort of h y p o t h e t i c a l style, y e t we feel t h a t his indirect reference t o t h e t h r e e so-called co-ordinate bodies a n d t h e Scottish Rite serves t h e purpose. We heartily agree with M.'. W.". B r o t h e r K L I N E in dealing with t h e l a t t e r subject, b u t certainly cannot d o so concerning Masonic clubs. We t a k e t h e following from t h e subject of " U n i f o r m i t y of W o r k " : Owing to the discussion that is heard on tile street corners and seen in tile public press lately, your Grand Master feels that your attention as Masons should once more be called to the fact that Masonry condemns no man because of his political or religious beliefs. Our forefathers crossed the^ stormy Atlantic and braved the dangers of ah unknown wilderness that they might And here a place where they "would have the right .to worship GOD according to the dictates of their own conscience. To this favored land flocked Puritan, Quaker, Catholic and my own ancestors, the German Protestants, from the Palatinate. Nearly all of the signers of the Declaration of Independence we're Masons, and they wrote into that immortal document the declaration of civil and religious liberty. In the Masonic Lodge the Mohammedan, the Hebrew, the Parsee and the Christian can meet as brethren, each believing in and worshipping in his own way the one ever-living GOD, and I have faith to believe that that GOD whom we as Masons reverence and serve, will hear and answer the prayer of his children whether they be rich or poor in wordly goods, or whether such prayer be uttered in a Protestant church,"a Hebrew synagogue, a Mohammedan Mosque or a Catholic cathedral. Our own particular religious and political beliefs are generally the result of the accident of birth, early education and environment. For these reasons, as Masons, we should be tolerant and charitable toward all men, whatever may be their political or religious creed, and should condemn no man because of his political afBliations or his religious faith.
* * * * * * In the years that have passed since I became a member of this ancient and honorable institution, and especially since I have been an officer of this Grand Lodge, I have been impressed with the fact that we as Masons give too much time and attention to material things, to the history and rituals of the Order, and not enough to the exemplification in our lives and actions of .those principles for which Masonry really stands, and so in my talks to the various lodges I have stressed those things which 1 consider to be vital in Masonry. Suppose the origin of our order is lost in the mists of antiquity. Suppose that our ancestors did or did not participate in the building of KING SOLOMON'S Temple. Of what concern is that to you and to me as Masons? As has been well said, "Neither pedigree nor ancestry can make any institution or individual great." The past of Masonry has its value, but only as it sheds light upon the present. AVhat Masonry is now and what it stands for today and what its future shall be, is what is really vital. • We are each and all builders,—builders of our own lives and of the future of this great fraternity. If the Masonic institution is to endure, it must be well built, and its constituent members must be selected with care. No builder would attempt to place in a building which he was erecting and which he expected to endure and survive the storms of centuries, imperfect stones or stones which were weak or crumbling in spots. Neither can we as builders,
376
CORHESPONDENCE—WYOMING.
February,
buildTan institution which will endure and resist all the encroachments of time andfdecay if we accept as members of that institution those who are morally weak and unworthy. Brethren, we should elect to membership in our frate.nity only those who have been proven good and true men; we should guard well the outer door, and if, by chance, any should become a member of our order who^later becomes unworthy and brings disgrace upon the fraternity, then no matter what his station or how hi'^h or influential he ma"" be v,'C should unhesitatingly do our duty and deprive him of liis membership in the order. But it may be urged that we should not be too harsh in our judgments and should not condemn, but should endeavor to aid and assist a brother who has violated liis obligations or broken the law. Sympathy and help,—yes. every Mason should give those to an erring brother, but mark this, brethren, -^when a Mason so far forgets the teachings of the fraternity and the obligation.s which he took at the altar as to violate those obligations and break the laws of GOD and man, then we should have more respect for this ancient and honorable institution to which we belong than to permit him further to disgrace and dishonor it. The world at large judges Masonry by the lives and actions of those v,'»iO compose its itienitjcrsiiip ati<.i especiany Oi tiiose Wiio are itS leituei'S. xiie Masonic institution cannot long survive and hold the respect and admiration of the world a t large, as it always has done in the past, if Its members rolerate or condone disrespect for the constitution and laws of their country, or if it retains within its membership and apologizes for those who have broken the moral .law. Better ttiat one man should suffer for the wrong that he has committedjthan^thatlthe whole institution should suffer. We quote Jurisprudence, to the position right of Cirand
the following from the report of the Committee on as their views on this subject are in direct opposition taken by practically all Grand Lodges, concerning the Jjodge to control its membership:
As to the recommendation in the report of the Grand-Master under the caption of "Other Masonic Bodies," this committee is of the opinion that it is without jurisdiction and would have no power to enforce a law which would limit or abridge the rights of Blue Lodge Masons in seelcing membership in higher Masonic bodies, and therefore respectfully recommends that no action he taken along tliat line at the present time. But we heartily commend the sentiment expressed by the Grand Master that the Grand Lodge officers should at all times impress upon the membership the substance and importance of the Blue Lodge degrees. The Report on Correspondence was prepared by their faithful Grand Secretary, Brother JOSEPH M . LOWNDES, and we note in his review of our 1928 Proceedings t h a t he gives assurance t h a t in future the date of their next Annual Communication will appear on the back cover of the Proceedings. We are pleased to find that Brother LOWNDES has made good, and we therefore pronounce the composition on this portion of his Proceedings to be in standard form and in accordance with the whims of the writer of this report. Thanks. GUY J; GAY, M.-. W.-. Grand Master, Casper. JOSEPH M . LOWNDES, R . ' . W . ' . Grand Secretary and pondent, Casper. Next Annual, Sheridan, August 28, 1929.
Corres-
377
CORRESPONDENCE—APPENDIX.
1928-29.
M E M B E R S H I P GRAND LODGES. s t a t i s t i c a l t a b l e showing m e m b e r s h i p of G r a n d Lodges. Compiled b y B.-. W •. A L B E R T K . W I L S O N , for t h e K a n s a s C o m m i t t e e on Correspondence. F e b r u a r y , 1929.
Grand
Lodge.
Ohio
Utah
:
No of Lodges.. 582 36 553 563 147 120 22 34 257 648 88 1,006 560 557 446 603 271 206 118 312 499 390 387 662 134 293 23 226 . 58 1,000 443 126 608 437 172 563 40 294 176 468 986 25 103 353 264 167 311 46 iR.asa
Year.
1927 1928 1927 1927 1927 1928 1927 1927 1928 1927 1927 1927 1928 1928 1928 1927 1928 1928 1927 1927 1928 1928 1928 1927, 1927 1928 1928 1928 1928 1928 1928 1928 1927 1928 1928 1927 1928 1928 1928 1928 1927 1928 1928 1928 1927 1927 1928 1928
Membership. 54,266 6,264 35,351 129,309 32,729 45,495 6,010 23,264 32,404 66,843 10,118 290,642 129,071 86,486 83,708 65,235 35,191 43,897 33,235 123,661 150,650 61,496 36,554 113,790 20,469 41,948 2,954 92,565 6,692 337,558 41,439 15,459 202,125 73,687 30,286 210,593 18,852 29,848 19,707 50,674 136,740 5,107 19,438 48,558 47,818 34.077 60.305 8,145 3.249,713
Net Gain.
Net Loss. 272
181 530 603 386 55 271 2,000 2,047 110 1,156 55 307 1,951 40 146 603 830 1,522 754 152 578 98 362 64 2,968 114 8,263 204 52 3,860 1,685 1,317 3,250 561 95 24 652 940 170 175 625 1,409 571 1,479 220 38.348
5.359
378
February,,
CORRESPONDENCE—APPENDIX.
OTHER G R A N D LODGES RECOGNIZED BY THE GRAND LODGE OF KANSAS. No. Grand
Lcuf/ti.
of
Year.
Lodges.
Chile
Guatemala
Mexico ( Y o r k G . - . L . - . )
151 120 517 56 10 5 171 7 4,295 18 700 103 14 44 437 288 81 8 15 101 18 53 84 339 4 189 883 133 41 324 124
1928 1928 • 1928 1927 1927 1927 1927 1926 1927 1927 1 no'7
1928 1928 1927 1927 1927 1927 1928 1928 1926 1928 1928 1928 1928 1927 1928 1928 1927 1928 1928 1927 1928
Membership Last Report. 13,301 14,900 112,401 4,000 816 300 13,443 431 300,000 598 50.000 11,875 893 6,014 04,585 25,579 9,820 355 630 6,683 1,224 4,500 15,158 21,000 141
U. S. T o t a l s
9,339 10,383
13,843 200.(inn 13,658 3,814 44,793 8,117 1,083,097 3,249,713
Grand Total
25.722
4.33?.SI 0
Net Gain.
Net Loss.
266 388 1,852 420 171 46 30,000 196 47 128
25 2,565 756 1,270 159 27 469 237
.565 163. 2,703 450 41,489 38,348 -79.837
1.429 5,359 •
6.788
379
CORRESPONDENCE—APPENDIX.
1928-29.
CONSOLIDATED STATISTICAL A P P E N D I X . Prepared b y ' A L B E B T J K . WILSON, Grand Secretary Emeritus and Grand
Recorder Emeritus, Kansas Correspondent. February, 1929. Grand Lodcje.
Florida.'.
14,629 1,285 8,286 25,987 8,147 16,762 2,023 0,310 9,109 17,081 2,679 91,573 33,475 23,190 . 21,308 18,447 0,235 17,838 9,980 41,844
4,877 • 534 1,566 9,764' 2,512 10,895 229 1,662 2,171 5,724
] .50.650 61,496 36,554 113,790 20,469 41,948 2,954
47,132 17,020 7,412 34,656 4,788 . 8,357 642 5,843 20.471 2,065 72,423 • 8,1.51 4,020 80,558 14,314 7,086 61,569 10,298 5,999 6,093 11,161 43,715 1,29(1 5,827 18,050 9,418 12,202 25,947 2,237
15,665 3,175 4,021 11,475 940 3,356 140 3,680 4,073
337,558 4!,439 15,459, 202,125 72,687 30,286 210,593 18.852 29,848 19,707 .'•0,674 136.740 5,107 19,438 48,55.*^ 47.818 34.077 60.305 8,145
1
Otiio
Utah
3.249.713
Totals General
Grand
Chapter
General
Grand
Council
Grand Grand Council y Comd'y.
54,266 6,264 3.5,351 129,309 32,729 45,49.'') 6,010 23,264 32,404 66,843 10,118 290,642 129,071 86,486 83,708 65,235 35,191 43,897 33,235 123,661
, . 92,565 •ISTew Y o r k :
Grand Chapter.
927,947
25,779 19,885 6,768 6.482 4,476 l,76(i 8,588 4,982 15,395
13.132 2,013 898 45,809 4,963 2,131 15,081 5,969 4,077 1.433 2,688 39,451 1,838 3.063 9,518 332,644
8,683 793
2,835 14,429 4,815 6,607 3,374 5,639 8,039 1,667 36,039 13,321 12,100 14,689 9,232 3,299 9,719 4,798 26,433 15,820 7,803 3,946 16,973 2,635 4,538 303
3,428 7,620 1,401 37,751 5,403 2,324 34,068 7,402 3,878 42.124 3,939 3,648 5,162 18,728 885
3.638 7,4,54 5.147 6,948 11.151 1,562 452,190
1.502 1,046
G r a n d E n c a m p m e n t .Sul:-
1 611
United Ptates Totals
3,249,713 1,083,097
929,449 162,310
333.690 2,074
4.53,801 16.449
Grand Totals
4,332,81(1
1,091,759
3.35,764
470,2.50
380
CORRESPONDENCE—APPENDIX.
February,
FOREIGN GRAND BODIES. Grand T.odoe. 13,301 14,900 112,401 4,000 816 300 13,443 431 360,000
Chile
Grand Chapter. 2,811 2,756 26,077
80,000
598
-„ ??§ 50,000 11,875
ani...>^'^»
4-^ A
893 6,014 64,585 25,579 9,820 355 630 6,683 1,224 4,500 15,158 21,000
25,000 1,750
Grand Covncil.
Grand Comd'y.
415
12,341
960
4,108
699
1,620 3.696 3,785 2,634
3,722 675
1/11
13,843 ^fin nnn
2,607
3,814 44,793 8,117
4,427 850
Totals United States Totals
1,083,097 3,249,713
162,310 929,449
2,074 333,690
16,449 453,801
Grand Totals
4,332,810
1,091,759
335,764
470,250
Qf^nOonH
•
GEORGE F. BEEZLEY GRAND MASTER.
February 21. 1929. to February 20. 1930.