WILLIAM ALFRED CLARK JEFFERSON CITY GRAND MASTER
1917-1918
BIOGRAPHICAL
WILLIAM :ALFRED
C~RK.
Grand Master. 1917-1918. William Alfred Clark, son of George T. and Mary Belle (Yancey) Clark, was born at Clarksburg, Moniteau County, Missouri, September 11, 1865, being the eldest of ten children, four boys and six girls. His ancestors were Scotch-Irish. When they migrated to America is not definitely known. The first knowledge of their res,idence in this country being that they came to Kentucky from Guilford Court House, North Carolina. In 1833 his grandfather, Hiram Clark, left Logan County; Kentucky, drove across the . country in an ox wagon and settled in Moniteau County, Missouri, on the broad prairie where the village of Clarksburg now stands. The town was named for him. Our Grand Master's father was three years old at that time and lived on the old home place all of his life, dying some twenty-five years ago. . His mother was a Yancey, a descendant of Leighton Yancey,' who migrated from Virginia at a very early date and settled in Howard County, Missouri, where the' little town of Roanoke afterwards sprung up. A number of the family still live in'that locality, also near Armstrong and its vicinity. The village of Clarksburg was built on his. father's farm, his residence being -just at its edge. Here our Grand Master grew up to manhood, .working on the farm in': th.e summer and going' to school in the winter until he was about twenty years of age. When he was quite it boy a college was established there, called Clarksburg College, whi~h for several years had 'a splendid reputation. He went to school there and gradUaledlin 1888. During the last year of his col,lege course he was a tutor, teaching half of the day and studying the other half. He also taught two or three terms in country ~chools while he was attending college. \.
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Biographical.
He then went to Waynesburg, Pa" stood his examination for admission to the Senior .Class of Waynesburg College, was admitted, took a classical course and graduated in 1889 as salutatorian of his class. He then returned to Missouri and路 was elected principal of the public schools at Tipton, where he taught for five years. He then entereli Washington University Medical School in St. Louis, from which he graduated in March, 1897. He at once located at Jefferson Cit~, where he has ever since lived, engaged in the active practice of his profession. In 1899 he married Miss Clara T. Neef, of Jefferson City. They have two children, Helen seventeen, and Mary Louise eleven. Dr. Clark is a member of 'the State Board of Health; Chairman of the Gole County Chapter American Red Cross; and Chairman of the Cole County Medical Advisory Board. Our Grand Master was initiated in Tipton Lodge No. 56, February 15, 1890, was passed March 1, 1890, and raised April 15, 1890. On his removal to Jefferson City he affiliated with Jefferson Lodge No. 43, February 7, 1898, was elected Secretary June 14, 1898, Junior Warden 1890, Senior Warden in 1891, and served his Lodge as Worshipful Master in 1901 and 1902. He received the Capitular Degrees in California, Royal Arch Chapter No. 59, 'in 1892, being exalted May 7th. He was Knighted in Olivet Commandery No. 53, at Boonville, in October, 1893. After his' removal to Jefferson City he affiliated with Jefferson' Royal Arch Chapter No. 27, and served as its High Priest in 1903 and 1904, and also affiliated, with Prince of P~ace Commandery No. 29 and served as its Commander in 1910 and 1911. He is a member of Ezra Council Royal and Select Masters;, of Moolah Temple; the Red Cross of Constantine, and St. Louis Lodge of Perfect~on, A. & A. Scottish Rite. Our Grand Master was elected Grand Junior Warden in 1914, regularly advanced, and was elected Grand Master iil 1917. Dr. Clark has a very large practice and is of necessity a very busy man. His love for Masonry, however, is such that he call almost always find time to give at' least a little of his time to the Fraternity. He is a fine ritualist and one of the best floor workers in the state. He is in the prime of life and his numerous, friends hope that he will be spared to them for many years, that the Grand 'Lodge, and the Fraternity at. large, may have the benefit of his counsEi!! ~nd advice. D. M. WILSON.
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EXER,CISES PRELIMINARY TO OPENING. 9 A. M., September 17, 1918. Prior to opening of regular session of the Grand Lodge, the Mason{c. orchestra directed by Bro. Henrv J. Falkenhainer, with eighty children of the Masonic Home of Missouri, in charge of the officers of the Home, occupied the stage and rendered the following program for the entertainment and inspiration of the brethren. Each number was applauded and' several favored with encores: 1. Our Country, "America" ,-., " .. ", .. , .. " Smith-Carey 2. Overture, "Raymond" , , " .. , " Thomas Encore, "Oui, Oui, Marie" 3. Chorus, "America Befriend." Children of the Home. Encore, Chorus. 4. Soprano Solo, "Selected." Mrs. E. Stanley, 5. Chorus, "God Gives Us the Flowers" '.'., .Harkness Children of the Home. 6. Selection, "Aida" , ,." Verdi Encore, "1 Hate to' Get Up" (Bugle effect) 7. Our Flag, "TheStar-Sp!!ongled Banner" Key-Arnold
APPRECIATION EXPRESSED路 BY GRAND 路MASTER. Grand Maste-r Clark spoke 'as follows: I wish to extend the congratulations and compliments of this Grand Lodge to the children of the Masonic Home, and to their teachers for the excellent training they have. given to them. I assure yeu that the Grand Lodge of Missouri appreciates your efforts and congratulates you路. And also congratulates this aplendid Masonic orchestra you have here in St. Louis. Ordinarily, 1 am not specially envious. 1 am pretty well satisfied with things as they are and with what I have. But when I hear this orchestra,' 1 do get just a little bit envious. On behalf of the Grand Lodge of the State of Missouri, I wish to extend to Brother Falkenhainer and to this grand orchestra our very best compliments and congratulations (applause). Now the time has arrived for the opening of the 98th Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Missouri, and we will have a few minutes 路intermission in which those of you who have no interest in our further proceedings may retire. Good-bye.
OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF THE
NINETY-EIGHTH ANNUAL COMMUNICATION
OF.THE
GRAND' LODGE ANCIENT FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS OF THE
STATE OF MISSOURI •
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HELD IN ST. LOUIS
COMMENCING'SEPTEMBER 17, A. D. 1918, A. . L. 5918 .
OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS . OF THE
NINETY~EIGHTH ANNUAL COMMUNICATION OF THE
GRAND LODGE QF
ANCIENT FREE AND ACCEPTED M路ASONS Of THE' STATE OF MIS'SOURI The 98th Annual Communication of, the Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted M'asons of the State of l\1issouri convened at Scottish Rite Cathedral, Seventeenth and Locust streets, St. Louis, l\1issouri, September 17th, 1918, at 10 o'clock A. M.
PRESENT. \VM. A. CLARK JOHN W. BINGHAM JULIUS C. GARRELL WM. F. JOHNSON WM. A. HALL ' . JOHN R. PARSON : .. : J. R. McLACHLAN., JOHN H. MILLER ARTlIUR MATHER O. A. LUCAS : BERT S. LEE JOSEPH S. McINTyRE ORESTES MITCHELL AUSTIN L. McRAE ' W. W. MARTIN , CHARLES C. GARDNER JOHN PICKARD HARRY A. KRUEGER ,
M. W. R. W. R. W. R. W. R. W. R. W. R. W. R. W. : .R. W. R. W. R. vv. T?. W. R. W. R. W. R. W. R. W. R. W. : . . R. W.
Grand Maste1' Deputy G1'and Master Grand Senior Warden Grand Junior Warden Grand Treasu1'er Gra.nd Secretm'y Grand Lecture1' G1'and.Chaplain Gm1~d 'Chaplain Gmnd Senior Deacon Grand/Junior Deacon Grand Senior Steward Grand Junio1' Steward Grand Marshal Grand Manhal Grand Sword Bearer Grand Pursuivant Grand Tiler
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Proceedings of the
OPENING. At 10 A. 1\1. the Most Vlorshipftil Grand Lodge Ancient Free and Accepte<;l Masons of the State of Missouri, was opened in Ample Form by the Most Worshipful Grand Master, WilliamA. Clark, assisted by the 'other Grand Officers. Opening Ode sung by Grand Lodge members. Divine blessing and gui.dance during the deliberations invoked by R. W. and Rev.. Brother John H. Miller, Grand Chaplain, in. the following words: We approach Thy throne, Most Glorious Lord God, with reo joicing and thanksgiving, for we find that Thou art now, as Thou hast: been through all' the ~ge~, the . Defender of every righteous ca1!.se. ~
Look down with infinite compassion, we entreat Thee, upon all wh'o have been plunged 'into suffering and distress by the war in Europe, and enable us to increase in our efforts for their relief. Comfort, we implore Thee,' those who mourn the 19s5 in battle, and grant that Thy holy angels may keep watch and ward where sleep our heroic dead. /
We thank' Thee for the de'votion to a high and noble aim which has carried in safety to the war zone a million and a路 half of our soldiers. To' 'l'hee be our praise for their protection. ' Accept our grateful thanks for the magnificent courage and patriotism which Thou hast planted in the hearts of our soldiers, making them the brave defenders of oppressed manhood and outraged womanhood in all lands beneath' aU skies. Permit fthat we may view with pride the spirit with which Thou hast endowed them to hold aloft the torch, of Liberty, that its light may give hope and' inspiration on all shores. I
We acknowledge our indebtedness to Thee for sending into Grand and -Subordinate Lodges of Freemasons true devotion to the noblest cause to which any bugle has ever called supporters, reminding us of our duty to put our tr~st in Thee and to be willing to serve when and where Thou dost command. 0, Lord, God of Righteousness,' inspire the Fret!masons of the. allied nations to. be aflame w~th the high. and holy resolve to support only that treaty of peace which is based on an uncon-
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ditional surrender of all of our armed enemies and the overthrow of that dynasty which has involved the whole world in the most destructive war that has ever been waged. Hasten, we pray Thee, this day of peace, and bless us as Thou didst Thy people of old, saying: "The Lord bless thee, and keep thee; The Lord make his face shine upon thee, ,and be gracious unto thee; The Lord 'lift ~p His countenance upon thee, and give thee peace," Amen.
DISTINGUISHED VISITOR. \ M. W. Bro. J. M. Dickey, Past Grand Master of Mississippi, was conducted' to the East, introduced and welcomed by Grand Master Clark M. Wor.' Bro. Dickey made no address, but expressed, pleasure and appreciation of the' cordial reception by the Grand Lodge.
CREDENTIALS. The Committee on Credentials having reported that .a majority of the Lodges were properly represented, and therefore a constitutional number being present, Grand Master Clark declared the Grand Lodge open for the transaction of all business.
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ADDRESS OF THE GRAND MASTER. Most Worshipful Grand Master William A. Clark read . the following address, which was referred to the usual committee of all the Feist Grand IVlasters in attendance, with 1\1. \V. Bro. A. 1'1.. Dockery, chairman: To the ,Members ot the Grand Lodge ot Missouri:
Brethren, I wish to express to you 'my appreciation of y.our presence and my congratulations on the zeal and fidelity which has caused so many of you in these troublous and strenuous times to leave your homes and necessary vocations and come herc' to. assist in carrying on the work of this Grand Lodge. The 98th Communication of the Grand Lodge of MissourI meets today, facing problems more momentous than any that has confronted it since the days of our own civil war. I hope that each and everyone of you \vill recognize this ,as' your meeting, and that you will not hesitate to take part in· the proceedings and feel that you have equal rights with every other. ' Before proceeding with the more or less routine address which your By-laws impose upon your ~rand Master, I wish to .tell you how very deeply a;nd' sincerely I appreciate your confi· dence in electing me to this very distinctive and honorable po· sition, and. how· mucJ1 I have enjoyed the associations its possession brings. . To be deemed "lorthy of standing in the select company of those to whom you have entrusted the responsibili· ties' of leadership, is to me the highest honor that could possibly be conferred and I assure you' I appreciate it more than anything that has yet come to me in this life, although my language may give but inadequate expression to my appreciation and my feel· ings. If nothing further comes to me in the way of preferment among my, fellows, I shall be content. If I' have not measurea up to the standard which you have a right to expect of one on whom you have conferred this mark of distinction, I trust ,you wiII exercise the grace of chaTity and in part at least, judge me by what I would like to have done, rather than by my achievements. To lead, even for a time, an institution that has, from time immemorial stood for the alleviation of human sorrows; that has faced every form of opposition and hostility that the centuries could furnish, and has never had to apologize, an institution that, like a Knight of old, has been constantly in the lists since the days when its members ·trod the flinty hills of Judea, at all times ready to champion the cause of virtue, right ~nd religion, against
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all comers, is indeed something that would do honor to the Judge in his ermine or even the King on his throne. While almost every human agency is overturned by the war, Freemasonry is little changed in practice and not at all in prin· ciple. It still maintains its abiding faith that the Ivy of Peace will eventually grow upon battlement and tower; that it will creep even into the cannon's mouth and still its, roar; such a condition was prophesied in the land of its birth and has been the theme -of much of its song and story in the succeeding ages. We wait impatiently the time when . "The war drums throb no longer, and the battle flags are furled, in the parliament of man, the fedeY-· ation of the world," but that time will, in the Providence of God, come when it should and the fiery cauldron through which we' are now passing, will be recognized as only the melting pot that the metal may be separated from the dross and we may 'be fused into a more solid brotherhood than ever before. At any rate brethren, it is meet that we again this day reo new our faith and again highly resolve that our dead shall not have died in vain; that our nation under God, shall have a new birth of freedom; and that government of the people, by the peo· pIe and for· the people shall not perish from the earth. It is also meet that we, as F~eemasons, be' not discouraged by the fact that the Star of Mars is so long in the ascendant, not because of the efforts of good men to prevent but in spite of them, and renew our faith and re-assert our belief, in the ~rotherhood of Man and the Fatherhood of God. CONDITION: OF THE CRAFT. Notwithstand'ing the fact that many' demands have been made for funds to carryon the great conflict which has been raging during the year, and which it would be but natural to suppose would retard the growth of all' institutions excep't those connected ./ with the war, Freemasonry in Missouri has prospered as never before. The returns ,made to the Grand Secretary show that during the last Masonic year, 5514 have been raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason, and that the activities of the Craft have been much accelerated rather than retarded by the demands that have been made u'pon it. This fact must give us concern, mixed with our satisfaction for many or these have received" the de· '
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grees without any preparation and in many cases I fear without much investigation. To the experienced Freemason grave dangers to the Craft will A,rise from this rapid Masonic advancement. True it is that in modern times we have lost much of our early conservatism, but still we have insisted that a certain degree of restraint on newly made Masons is necessary, because t.hat which is quickly and easily attained is correspondingly deprived of its due value and importance. The Fraternity must make endeavor to digest and assimilate this mass of raw material, soII}€ of which I fear will cause serious internal disturbances. So far as I have been able to learn there has been no member of the Fraternity in the Grand Jurisdiction of Missouri who has not been true to his country and just to his government. There are no slackers in the Masonic membershIp of Missouri, but on the contrar.y our brethren have given freely of their time, their treasures and their talents to further the cause in which we are now so earnestly engaged, while the service flags in every lodge room give mute'testimony to the number who are carrying the Stars and Stripes against the hosts of militarism and intolerance. As shown b¥ the returns there 'has been paid to the Grand ' Secretary since last meeting of the Grand Lodge $129,584.20 per capita, and of this sum $~2,560.13 has been pai~ to the Masonic Home Board for the support of the Masonic Home. It' is further shown by the returns that we ,now have in the Grand Jurisdiction of Missouri, 74,201 Freemasons. DISPENSATIONS. During my year I have' issued two dispensations for lodge3 U. D., the one at Clever, Missouri, and the other for Apollo Lodge in St. Louis. Many requests have come, to me' for dispensations to elect offi· cers, rebalIot,' move lodge halls, etc., all of which have been granted, unless there seemed to be some legitimate reason for not doing so. Near the first of the year the Grand Master's office is much troubled by requests for special <:iispensations to ,hold election of officers. !. am of the opinion that if we would adopt the rule, as has been done by some of our sister jurisdictions, of requiring a fee of Five Dollars for dispensations to elect officers at other than the regular time, it would have a most salutary effect in pro-curing a quorum on the night specified in, the By~laws.
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ARRESTED CHARTER. Niangua Lodge No. 529, Niangua, Mo., having refused to pay the per capita tax for the Masonic Home, and furthermore being in an unhealthy condition, having done no work for some years, and seeming to .be without any ~nity of purpose among the brethren, was ,deemed unworthy of further continuance, consequently I arrested the charter, subject to the action of the Grand Lodge. FRATERNAL RELATIONS. Our relations with other foreign Grand Jurisdictions have been most cordial and friendly. Probably no other Grand Master of Missouri ,has ever been called upon to make as many requests for courtesies as have ,been made during the past year. All of which have been most cheerfully and gladly granted except in one or two instances where the By~laws of that Grand Jurisdiction forbid the conferring of degrees for other jurisdictions, and though the bur路 den must have been very heavy on some' of our sister jurisdictions, there has been no wo.rd of complaint. Requests have come to me to have jurisdictions in almost all parts of the world confer degrees upon Missouri boys, and this has greatly multiplied the work of the Grand Master as m~ch of it w~s urgent, and it was necessary to be attended to quickly In order that those who had petitioned their home lodges might reo ceive the degrees befol'e being transferred or sent overseas, and in fact a number of such requests were sent by wire. This work is increasing day by day, and is heavier at present than at any time'during the year. Doubtless the increasing num路 ber of men being sent from the state will cause it to be even heavier as time goes on. It is doubtful if it is expedient for the Grand Master to be compelled to give so much time to this work which is largely clerical. Printed forms which could be filled in and forwarded would simplify the matter to some extent. I have been asked to have degrees conferred in France, and have also been asked many times if Missouri Masons could fra路 ternize with the French Masons. To this question I have answered that the National and Independent Grand Lodge of France was recognized by Missouri Freemasonry and could be visited, and that I had sent requests to them to confer degrees for us as a courte~y. This Grand Body seems to have been organized in 1913, and em路 braced under its authority two lodges, one of which had been ostracized by the Grand Orient of France. Whether the other lodge was the so-called Anglaise No. 204, about which so much has
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been said, I have not been able to make out definitely. In 1915 this Grand Lodge abrogated the 1913 Constitution and formed a new one. At that time the best information obtainable indicates that it ha.d two or three subordinate lodges and a total membership of about 125 men. They have issued in pamphlet form, printed in French, their Constitution and By-laws, of which I have a copy, and the statements given in these seem to contain nothing but what is desirable. They require' a belief in the Grand Architect of the Universe, they state the Bible is placed upon the altar; it expressly forbids the discussIon of political, and reliv,ious subjects in the lodge, and specifies that they confer three degrees, Apprentice, Companion' or Fellow Craft and Master. Whether this lodge is of sufficient size and importanco to be of any practical use is a question which seems doubtfuL The history of the Fraternity in France is ~onfused and somewhat difficult to follow. Originally the French Freemasonry and the English Freemasonry seem to have been identical. . Neither of them required a Bible to he upon their altars. Later the English speaking lodges adopted the Holy Bible as one of the Great Lights and soon' after the French Freemasonry followed their example. This innovation seems to have brought upon th~m many troubles, and the Lodge struggled for many years under various forms of oppression. 'iVe must remember that they were working in a Ca~holic country and that this religion has always been inimical to Freemasonry. The Catholics claimed that it was forbidden to have the Bible in an unconsecrated building, which they considered a Ma-' sonic hall to be, and the brethren were compelled by this longtime enemy of Freemasonry to evade in every way possiblo domiciliary visits and penalties for having violated this canon of the Church. Furthermore the Jews who were numbered in the membership, claimed that 'if Masonry were entirely Christian, then the Jews could have no part or parc~l in it. That the Christian Bible contained things which they did not believe and it' was proper that the Jewish Bible be placed upon its altar. . The Craft in France struggled under these difficulties for many years making but little progress and suffering many privations, privations of which we in this country can hardly conceive, and finally as a means of liberating the Craft from contentions which seemed to threaten its entire destruction" the Grand Master of France, a Protestant minister, advised¡ that the French Lodges revert to the original plan which both the English and the French Lodges had adopted in their beginnirig. This gave the
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Church of Rome a chance to sow dissension in the ranks of Freemasonry, which raised a cry of atheistic France. It was proclaimed that the French Masons had removed God from their constitution, the Bible from their altars, and later like accusations were brought against the schools of the Republic. As evidence that such an idea was not in the mind of the Grand Master who proposed the change, I beg to quote his words at the time he made the recommendations: "J..et us leave to churches and theologians the discussion of dogmas. Let us leave to accredited church authorities the formation of systems. Let Masonry continue to be what she ought to be, an institutioll open to progress of every sort, welcoming all moral ideas, all elevated ideas, all large and liberal aspirations. Let us never descend into the arena of theological discussions, which discussions have never; believe me, resulted in' anything but troubles, and persecutions. Let Masonry take care not to aim to be an organized church, a council, or a synod, for all church organizations, all councils and all synods have been violent and persecuting, because they have all taken dogma as their base, which base is in its nature essentially inquisitorial and intolerant. Let Masonry soar. majestically above all questions of churches and sects; let her tower in her height and grandeur above all their discussions; let her be the shelter for all brave and noble spirits, for all conscientious and disinterested seekers after truth, and finally for all the victims of despotism an~ intolerance." France is the most spiritually alert nation on the earth and I do not believe the Grand Lodge of France or the Grand Orient of France are atheistic in their belief, nor in their teachings. They disclaim it vehemently and after much study and gathering together of all information possible, I find no proof of it, and certainly the words of' Prince Murat, the Grand Master of the Grand Orient can be taken with some degree of assurance. In 1856 when the members of a lodge had protested against being excluded from a church for a Masonic funeral, he stated "Our tenets are, God, the immortality of the soul and brotherly love." We have brought charges against' them of being political Lodges, because they were somewhat active in the recent efforts to separate the church and the state in France. I ask you in
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all sincerity, what would probably have been the position of Freemasons in Missouri in such a contest had they lived for years un路 der conditions such as those that had been imposed upon them by the hierarchy of France. We take considerable pride in the fact that our own Freemasons organized a "tea party" in Boston at one time and started the machinery in motion which eventually threw off the yoke of foreign rule. In fact in the Grand' Master's report of last year, such proceedings were recorded with con路 siderable gusto. So far as a knowledge of the holy desire to exterminate any one who didn't believe as they do is concerned, the French have nothing to learn. . Mr. Robert A. Shirrefs, Chairman of the Committee on Foreign Correspondence of New Jersey, had this to say in a review which he recently prepared for the Grand Lodge of that state: "I have faith to believe from some knowledge of the subsequent facts and the record that the French Freemasons are quite as worthy of confidence and fraternal regard as any I know in New Jersey, and perhaps in Mis8ouri." I disclaim any hysterical manifestations in arriving at my conclusions and if it is hysteria, certainly it is an epidemic, for' within the past year, Manitoba, New York, New Jersey, Kentucky, Louisiana, with perhaps others of whom I have not learned, have established either a modus vivendi, or complete fratern.al relations with French Masons. As further evidence of the' attitude of the Grand Lodge of France, permit me this copy路 of a letter from said Lodge s'ent to the Grand Secretaries of the Grand Jurisdictions' of the United States. It was written upon the official letter head of the Grand Lodge and is as foliows: "A. L. G. D. G. A. D. L. U." (To the Glory of the Grand Architect of the Universe.) Paris, July 20th, 1917. Dear Sir and V. Worshipful Brother: "The landing in our country of the vanguard of your army, which is crossing the ocean to unite with us in the great struggle for the freedom of the world, Is an event of momentous import. It has aroused within us the thought that it is highly desirable that our ancient institution, which has always stood for liberty, should celebrate this manifestation of brotherhood by a drawing together of the bonds of fraternal
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esteem and affection which unite Freemasons all over the world. "With this thought in our minds we are writing to extend to' your Grand Lodge an invitation to enter" into official relations with us, and to eement those relations by an exchange of Representatives. The Grand Lodge' of France was constitut~d in 1804 by theSu-' preme Council 33d. for France and the French colonies to administer and control the lod~s working the three degrees of Craft Masonry. In 1904 as the result of friendly negotiations with the Supreme Council, our Grand Lodge became a sovereign and independent body. "As an integral part of the A. & A. S. C. our Masonic pt:inciples are those common to the Rite in general as set forth in the declarations of the Convention of Lausanne of 1875. We have 136 Lodges working under our jurisdiction, among them one, Anglo-Saxon 343, which works in English and the members of which are almost exclusively British and American. . "In tbe hope that you will agree with us that such a union as we propose will appear all. the more in harmony with the ideals of our order, if realized in the hour when the brethren of our two countries are shedding their lifeblood in common for the triumph of justic~ and civilization. () "We are yours faithfully and fraternally. This was signed by the Grand Master, the Grand Secretary, the Grand Treasurer and the Grand Or'atol'. I feel that any'one who will study the subject deeply must come to the co~clusion that withholding Masonic recognition from the Freemasonry of France at this time at least, is bas.ed on misconception.
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GRAND LODGE OF ENGLAND.
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On December 15th, 1917, I received the following letter, and ..1 take it that it will be of interest to the Grand Jurisdiction of ,Missouri:' . ':United Grand Lodge _of England, Freemasons' Hall, " Great Queen street, London, W. C. •' November 28, 1917. Dear Sir and R. ¥,r. Brother: "The news will no doubt have reached you ere this of the lamented death of the R. W. Bro. Sir Ed· ward Letchworth, which occurred shortly, after his resignation' of the office of Grand Secretary to which. I have been' appointed. -The Bound Souvenir of the Observance of the 'Bi. Centennial of the Grand Lodge of England, containing the Resolutions passed by your Grand Lodge reached me a few days ago, and on behalf of the Grand, Lodge of England, I ~hould like to thank the Grand Lodge of Missouri for ·the interesting n:temento which will be much appreciated and duly treasured. With all fraternal greetings to yourself and your Grand Lodge, I remain Yours very faithfully, P. COLVILLE SMITH, G. S.
o DECISIONS. The usual number' of questions have come to me during the year for decision, and with the one possible exception of Section 182, I have made no decision except those which could be made by reference to' the By-laws Of the Grand Lodge and approved decisions of former Grand Masters. To reiterate them would be merely a repetition of things upon which the Grand Lodge has already passed, and I deem it unnecessary. The ruling made by the Grand Lodge that questions first submitted to the District Deputy Grand Masters has borne much fruit, and has taken' a . great deal of work from the Grand Master, and while the ruling is not strictly adhered to, the amount of work done by the District Deputy Grand Masters has been very material. . I feel ,that if, the Grand Master will insist that this ruling be cat:ried out, that the office of the District Deputy Grand Master
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Grand Lodpe, of 1\1issouri.
15
will be of much more importance than it has been in former years, and that the Grand Master's office will continue to be. relieved of much unnecess~ry labor. S:illc'TION 1.82. . Early in the year it became necessary for me to' decide whether this section as a~ended by the last session of the Grand Lodge prohibited. Preemasons from signing saloon petitions. It was the opinion of many, myself included, that this section was. so amended as路 to make the signing of a saloon petition by a Master Mason unlawful, but unfortunately the section was so worded that the meaning was ambiguous. As it was a very important. innovation,. I gave the matter very serious considerat!on, referring it to the members of my Judiciary Committee, as well as to eminent lawyers in the ~raternity. It was the concensus of opinion that the section as written. did not so prohibit, and ,could not be so construed. In fact' many lawyers whose judgment I rate very highly, assured me that to undertake to work under the section written as this one' came from the Grand Lodge, would cause endless confusion and bickerings. I deemed it better that the Grand Lodge before taking this important step, should so "70rd the section that there could be no quibbling as 路to its meaning, and I recommend that the section \ be so amended that all ambiguity shall be taken from it, and the meaning shall be clear. .I made this decision very much against. my own inclination, and entirely in behalf of what seemed to me to be. the' best In路 路terests of the Fraternity. Personally I feel that the question of strong drink is a cess-pool in the pathway of human existence, which should be filled in, s,moothed down and sodded over, and the exigencies of the times make it necessary' that it be. done quickly. I yield to no man in the delight I shall feel on that ~ay when Imperial Missouri shall lift' aloft, higher than her mountain tops, the banner of white, pr.oclaiming to the world her freedom from the tyranny of intemperance, .and debauching of 'her manhood by the legalized sale of intoxicating liquors. RESIDENCE OF SOLDIERS: A large number of young men from the different Lodges in Missouri were takEm during the year to serve their country. and mobilized in the cantonments in various parts of . the .United
.,
'.
16
Proc~edings
of" the .,
[Sept.
States. Many of them desired to receive their degrees before being transferred ~verseas. "I decided that these young men should h:we the privilege of petitioning their home lodges in cases where they had no intention of permanently removing from the' state, and were only absent temporarily serving their country. Consequently a large number of them路 have petitioned their home Lodges, been elected and either received the degrees while home on a furlough, or have received them by courtesy from the Grand Jufllsdictions in which they were located. Hundreds of requests ,have come from all over the state, asking for dispensations to shorten the" time of conferring the degrees in order that those members who had been elected might take the degrees while home on a furlough. In many states such dispensations are granted, but in accordance with the decision of the Grand L~dge" of 'Misso~ri ~t its last an路 nua.l communication, I have refused all such requests, but In most . in~tances have signified my willingness to assist them tn any way possible, to get the degrees in the .Jurisdictions in which they we"re located. " Some complications have arisen during the year that con路 vinces me that it路 is dangerous to permit requests from Lodges in other Grand Jurisdictions to make requests directly to subordiJ1ate Lodges in this Grand Jurisdiction, and I recommend that Section ] 65 be so amended that requests from foreign jurisdictions to Lodges in Missouri to examine and to confer degrees "should come through the Grand Master of Missouri. SPECIAL TAX FOR MASONIC HOME IMPROVEMENT FUND: . At the beginning of my year, there "were turned over to me, Lodges who had not completed their payments of the Special Tax for the Masonlc Home Improvement ~und, but thanks to the persistent" efforts of our most efficient Grand Secretary, .John R. "Parson, I am enabled to report that this debt has been entirely wiped out. There has been collected from this source, $1,690.25 from 37 of the" Lodges who were in arrears and as has been reported, the charter of only one was arrested. This has been brought about by the patient efforts of the Grand Secretary; who has labored incessantly to collect this rund .and 'has at all "times stood between the Grand Master, who was sometimes disposed to take summary action, and the Lodge, and has fulfilled his promise to coll~ct all t.his fund.
,3~
...
0J_
1918. ]
Grand Lodge of AIissouri.
17
MASONIC HOME. The Fra.ternity in Missouri has been fortunate in many things and wise in its selections, but in nothing has it shown more wisdom than in the selection of the men who administer the affairs and look after the inmates of the Masonic Home. No more careful, conscientious and devoted body of men could possibly be selected and the Home is adminIstered on the strictest economical and business basis.. Whether the giving of financial a.id was one of the original aims of the institution or not, it has become in these later years so woven into the very warp and woof of its existe~ce and is such a natural outgrowth of its aims and teachings, that the abandonment now of such concrete manifestation as our Masonic Home would strike at the very vitals of the institution. We have become not only our brother's keeper, but our sister's as well, and the guardian of their helpless orphans. While I would not wish this work stressed to the point of seeming to overshadow other aims and activities of the Craft, I bespeak for it the most liberal and generous support. TRIAL COD E.My experience with Masonic trials has not been favorable to the continuation of our present code. It seems to me in most .instances it is a trial of strength between the friends and opponents 'of the aGcused, most of whom are prejudiced at the' beginning and pay very little attention to the evidence submitted. Many such cases are settled according to the business, social and fraternal relations of the accused -rather than on the question of his guilt or innocence; and the trial is too frequently a trav~sty on j:ustice which makes an appeal to the Grand Lodge necessary and consumes the time in this Grand Body that might be more profitably used. Several of our sister jurisdictions have adopted different trial codes, which they claim are working much better than tho old plan and which prevents much of the animosity and friction enâ&#x20AC;˘ gendered by the methods formerly used. I recommend that a committee be appointed who shall studr the systems in use in sister jurisdictions and report to this .Grand Lodge at its -next regular communication.
18
Proceeding..s of the CONFERENCE OF GRAND MASTERS.
A conference of Grand Masters and representatives of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of the United. States was held at the Mason.ic Temple. New York City on May 9th and 10th, 1918. Hon. Townsend Scudder, Resident Justice of the Supreme Court.' of New York was chairman of the meeting. This meeUng was called by the Grand Master of New York to consider what the Masonic Fraternity of the United States should do and could do in the present war. Thirteen Grand JUl" isdictions of the United States were personally represented and ,nearly all of the others sent letters approving of the plan, and voluntarily pledging themselves to join in the service in any way they could. There was no disposition on the part of the assembly to create anything resembling a general Grand Lodge, and in fact every representative路 except one, expressed himself as opposed to any such measure. Soon after the United States entered' this war, the Masonlo Fraternity offered its services to the government to help in any way that might be deemed .advisable to ameliorate conditions ot the soldiers and look after the welfare of the members of the Frater~ity, which offer was not accepted at that time. Later the Grand Lodge of New York, appointed a committee, who communicated with the War Department and who were informed that the government had found work which the Freemasons could do and In whic.h the government would路 aid them in every way possible. Pursuant to an invitation from the War Department the committee fr'o~ ,the Grand Lodge of New York. visited Washington, and' was granted ~ hearing with Mr. Raym,ond B. Fosdick, who was d~legated; by Secretary Baker to hold the conference. At this conference it developed that the War Department had found it was necessary to grant furloughs at intervals to the soldiers and further, that during these furloughs, when the men went back to the cities in France for a rest, that they fell into grievous errors, and in fact as Secretary Baker had stated, "it was their e路xperience that when the boys went on furlough, they . at the same time 'went to the devil'." It was pointed out to the committee that there was a great work that could be done in looking after the men who were 路behind the lines on furlough" and that the War Department would welcome the assistance at the Freemasons in taki,ng up this work. The War Department . reserved the right of specifying where these activities should be carried on, but the manner in which it should be done was to be left entirely. to the men whom the Fraternity might see fit to send
1918.]
Grand Lodge of 111iss路ouri.
19
to France. The Department promised to furnish information as to the citi'es in which the boys would be- permitted to go <lur路 ing the rest period, and while they would not give information as to' where they were at the times in which they were on duty, and that there could be no contact with them during that time, they would furnish every facility for reaching them during their time off duty. \ Something of the magnitude of the undertaking may. be gathered from the fact that it is stated by government health officers, that dm:ing the GalIipoli campaign alone, 30,000 sofdiers were invalided home, permanently disabled, on account of veneral diseases, while the number permanently disabled in the armies in France is so large as to seem almost incredible. Secretary Baker promised that passports should be issued to the men appointed by the Grand Jurisdictions to carryon this work and, that every facility which the government could furnish ,,-ould be at their disposal to make the work effective. The committee were urged to路 act and act quickly. As evidence of Mr. Fosdick's belief that this work should be carried on, the following letter addressed to the Honorable Secretary of State is interesting: War 'Department, Commission on Training Camp Activities, Washington. May 6, 1918. The Honorable, The Secretary of State, Washington. Dear Sir: Mr. Justice Scudder, of the Supreme Court of New York is the Chairman of a commission of five men representing the Masons of :New York who are applying for passports to study the situation overseas as far as the leisure. time activities of our troops is concerned, with the idea of providing whatever may . be nece:ssary both for their own constituent membership, and others in the army who may need their 路services. We have already approved the issuance of passports to two other fraternal organizations, and I am sincerely hopeful that no objection will be interposed in the case of. Judge Scudder's commission. Respectfully yours, RAYMOND B. JrOSDICK, Chairman.
20
Proceedings of the
[Sept.
The Grand Master of New York immediately set the machinery in motion for putting into effect the plans in that state. Two hundred and fifty thousand dollars were raised .and the Grand Master of Ne,v York was given permission by the Grand Lodge to spend any amount of money he' found necessary in prosecuting these activities. The committee appointed to go to France from the 'Grand Lodge of New York, are of such a high prder of manhood and so imbued w'ith the importance of the mission, that there can be no possible doubt of their sincerity, and of their efficiency. The committee consists of Han. Townsend" Scudder, Justice of the Supreme Court of New York; Han. EI:astus C. Knight, one-time Mayor of BUffalo;, Rev. Oscar F. R. Treder, Dean of Garden City Cathedral; Mr. Rougler Thorne of Glen Cove, L. 1., and Mr. William C. Prime of Yonkers. These men were particularly well suited for the work and M. W. Brother Scudder has been in France since the ,val' began and is thoroughly familiar with conditions. Soon after the appointments were received, this communication was sent from Mr. Fosdick of the War Department: "I am gratified to know that your commission is sailing soon, and 1 can promise yOIl full support of the War Department in the prosecution of your work." ~. It was the intention of the brethren in New York to in:mediately take steps to begin this work whether the other Grand Jurisdictions joined with them or not, -but in oI'der that it might be 'universal and ,the other Grand Jurisdictions might have an opportunity to participate if they so desired" the conference of Grand Masters was called, as has been stated, and all these things were gone over in detail. It was brought ou't in the discussion that Rhode Island had a member in France working for the Y. M. C. A. and, who has done something of the same kind for his native state. It was also brought out that Massachusetts had done much work for the boys in the cantonments located in that state, and further that Illinois had raised a fund of some $200,000.00 which they had not as yet decided how to use; and Ohio had set aside a considerable. sum of money to be used at the discretion of the Grand Master. These states had' done nothing, as up to the time of the New York conference it was not known what the Government would sanction, and in fact th~re had been a feeling that the Masonic order was barred from relief work in France. However, it was made plain by the 'War Department' that the idea was not to furnish money for relief, as this was ll,de-
(
,
1918.]
Grand Lodge of Missouri.
21
quately taken care of by the Y. M. C. A. arid Red Cross, but that we should confine our activities to something in the way of social service. The only money needed was that necessary to support our representatives and to maintain institutions which they might see fit to establish to accomplish the results desired. It was estimated that 5c per year for each Freemason in the United States would be, sufficient money, at le~st until the service had grown and shown by ,its results that it was really .able'to accomplish the purposes desired. After being discussed and explanation made by the committee from New York, this resolution was finally adopted by the conference; all Jurisdictions concurring except Illinois and Indiana. RESOLUTION. Resolved, that it is the sense of the brethren here assembled hailing from the following Jurisdiotions, Massachusetts, Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Oklahoma, Ohio, New Jersey, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Oregon, New Hampshire, Missouri and New York, that there is present" need'for Masonic service overseas to minister to Masons with the colors in' the forces of the United States; that some service lies in the cities, the recreation centers to which the boys go in large numbers while on' leave in work that may be approved by the War Department; that in such cities seemingly, there should be established general Masonic headquarters where Masons may receive Masonic welcome, comfort and encouragement, and where our boys may be hosts at home; that the duplication of headquarters in one and the same town would be a waste of energy and funds; that such headquarters be manned from time to time by workers ~rom any or all of our Jurisdictions as circumstances permit; that the expense thereof be paid so far as possible¡ out of a general fund; that the fund be dedicated to Masonic Fraternal service overseas; that the several Masonic Jurisdictions be invited to contribute to Uiis fund. on the annual basis of five cents for each member; that the management of the fund be entrusted to. ,a committee composed of representatives of our several contributing Jurisdictions, seleeted as each Jurisdiction sees fit; that each such Jurisdiction cast. one vote; that this service be in no wise exclusive; but rather a tribute to and token of our Masonic Brotherhood without regard to territorial divisions; that we recommend that t~e several Grand Lodges in the United States create War Boards ready to engage in this work as demand may appear, and ",e also recommend the presentation of, this plan to our several Jurisdictions."
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,22
Proceedings of the
[Sept.
In explanation '.of the position of New York, the Chairman had the following" to say: "Gentlemen, let me say one closing word" for New York on this SUbject. If, when you get back to your several Jurisdictions, and, if, after the record of the proc~edings here has reached you, either youo or Jurisdictions not represented, deteI'~ine upon some plans, whether it be this or a different " plan, provided it be one which invites ounity of action, even though New "York may not be represeOnted at the conference, New York will fall in with the majority, and do' what the majority decides if others too will abide by the majority rule; we believe in coordination of effort. New York has not desired to force it~ views upon anyone and it will be with you in whatever you may decide to do in the way- of concerted action. It has absolute confidence' in your zeal and loyalty, in your patriotism and in you,r appreciation of the great responsibility which rests on our Fraternity to do and do well that which duty dictates; "and if today's plan i8not the one upon whiÂŁh we ,can work together, agree to agree, point out the way and let the majority rule; New York will fall right in with the majority." It developed in the conference that the Government would not countenance an'y activities undertaken by civilians 3;-s independent and isolated societies, but that it would aid in every' \ way ~ossible th~ efforts made by the. Fraternity as a whole. It ,,:as also suggested in this meeting that the way, would be opened whereby there might be appointed a commission in New York who would know how to forward to Switzerland, things that will finally reach our prisoners in the German domain. The New York committee' had made all arrangements to proceed immediately to France and take up the, work, the War Department had approved of thf:) scheme, and everything seemed to be settled, but later the Depart~ent of State questioned the advisability of admitting other civilians to the field and passports of the New York commission were not granted. On August 6th the' matter was placed in the hands of the.' President of the United States, and so far as I know he has made no decisIon, a'nd of course nothing can be dono until tho government approves. Whether or. not we will be allovv'ed to undertake this mission is a matter no one can tell. However, in order that Missouri may" not be behind its sister Jurisdictions with this work: I recommend, that this Grand Lodge create a War Board and that this War Board be given power to act and that tho sum of $5,000.00 be held iI! some way that it may be made quickly available in the event this Board should find work that it can do. It is
1918. ]
Grand Lodge of l.1issouri.
23
possible that we will not be permitted to ·engage in any activity as a Fraternity, and that the money will. not be used, but this recommendation is made' on tbe contingency that such work might be found desirable and that the committee shall not bo compelled to wait until the next meeting of the Grand ,Lodge before it can join with its sister Jurisdictions in ameliorating the conditions of those who are carrying the Stars and Stripes on the fields of France. FRATERNAL CORRESPONDENCE. During the year I have given some attention to Fraternal Correspondence from sister Jurisdictions, many of which are written by men showing a high order of intelligence and great Masonic learning, but I have found none written with the same evidence of kindly spirit, Masonic fairness and withal, perfect ·diction as that composed by our own venerable M. W. Brother C. C. Woods. I will yield that in some things we may learn from New York, Massac~usetts and .New Jersey, but in a Fraternal Correspondent, Missouri has not only the Nestor but the Agamemmon of them all. DISTRICT, DEPUTY GRAND· MASTERS. For some years I was District Deputy Grand Master ·of my District and performed the few duties that came to me as mat· tel' of course, without any thought of doing anything of import· ance, and it is only since serving a year as Grand Master that I have in any way r~lized the total amou'nt of work and the good they accomplish. ' Several times during the year I have been compelled to ask the District Deputy Grand Masters of their respective districts to attend to matters that were of considerabie importance, and which required time and effort, and .in every case' they have responded in a way that was most gratifying. The unusual cqnditions duro ing the year have given rise to many contingencies that are unusuaLand to the prompt and careful attention of the Deputies Is due in a large measure the prosperous and harmoniout3 condition , of the Craft, and I assure them that I bespeak for them a. large measure of credit. .. The Grand Secretary's office voluntarily assumed many burdens that by right belonged to me, and one of the most enjoy· able and profitable experienc'es connected with the Grand Master's office has been my association with that wise and accomp~ished
a
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I
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24
Proceedings of the
I
[SepJ.
Freemason whom you have seen fit to elect to the office of Grand Secretary. I am indebted also to' Ihany of' the Past Grand Masters for ,assistance and their wise counsel; their thorough knowledge of Mason~c law and approved decisions has doubtless kept me from many grievous ~rrors. My only hope is that I may in some way serve the Craft in future years that I may repay the debt which I owe and which I freely acknowledge. In all my Masonic visitations during the year, whether in an official or purely social nature, I have been most kindly and hospitably received, and in some instances quite elaborate entertainments were arranged in honol' of my presence, all of which I have very much appreciated. , Wherever I hav'e come in contact with our efficient Grand Lecturer I have found evidence of patient and painstaking efforts, combine~ with wise counsel to which is due th'e wonderful improvement of the Craft in the knowledge of the ritualistic work of the order. The Grand Jurisdiction of Missouri possesses no more tireless worker and enthusiastic Freemason than R. W. Bro. J. R. McLachlan. CONCLUSION.
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In a few hours my year of service will have finished, and 1 shall sl;lrrender this gavel to my successor. I.am surrendering it, not only in a time of Masonic stress, but in a time of National stress, when all energies are bent to their utmost to force upon the world a lasting peace. "Our nation has taken the stand to assist. in bringing about this happy conclusion, and we all, as loyal citizens of our country, and in accordance with the solemn obligations taken at our altars, are bound by duty ang manhood, to use our best energies: physical, material and mental, to assist in every possible way our' President and his advisors in this day ~f Nati.onal trial." . ' From路 our present communication with the peoples of the old world, we may learn much. W~ are a long ways behind Europe in many.things. Close observation of habits and customs, found " to be best, by centuries of use, will probably help us make up . our deficiencies. 'It cannot' be done by boasting, nor by claiming for our' own land all the enterprise and enlightenment of the 20th century. Neither can it be done by setting up our own institutions as sup~rior to every historical precedent and an exception to every rule. From this strife we Americans will probably find that our own beloved land, with all its prosperity and unequalled
','
1918. ]
Grcmd Lodge of A1issouri.
25
progress, -is subject to the same vicissitudes as the countries that, we now think we can advise. . It .is said that the poppies of Flanders are red because of the blood of heroes shed on its many battlefields-;-Missouri Freemasons are today bearing aloft with their sturdy arms, .our own Star Spangled Banner, that has never been lowered to a foe nor trailed in the dust because of cowardice or dishonor, and we know they will either bring it home in victory or leave their , bodies to mold in foreign soi~ and stain with their blood the poppies of Flanders a deeper red. They are passing through the most terrible experiences that the courage of man has ever been called to' face, and: we who enjoy the comforts of home must be ready to mitIgate their woes, strengthen their arms and support their dependents to the utmost. May. tho God of Battles bring speedy victory to Missouri Freemason soldiers, and may we at home do -more than our utmost to show that the Craft appreciates their heroism and supports their effort~. I hope that when our soldier Masons shall. have returned,. that tliey will instill into our· institutions at home, something more of the value of the amenities of life and better ideas of moderation in the pusuit and use of wealth, which will make itself felt in the course of time and save us much adversity and' wounded pride in the future. And when peace shall have come, as come it must, and the glad paeans of victory shall 'have been sung, and the shouts of triumph shall cease to reverberate among the hills, when the Ga.use for which we fought ,shall have been adjudged by higher and fuller wisdom than yours and mine, and the Omniscient God, who holds the balance of battles in His Alm'ighty Hands, begins·, patie~tly and lovingly to build up the shattered dome of brotherl~T . love under which His children should ·have lived, there wilr~e· much need for those institutions whose principles are for .'TIie subjection '~of human passions, racial prejudices. and social ':oi~ Unctions. Society can·not inflict UIJon itself such 'wounds as it ~i;", . now doing without the process of healing being long and tedious. There must needs be surgeons and nurses' to cut away the slou·gh- • 'ng remnants and nurse back the healthy granulations of the new growth. Until such convalescence has been firmly established, Freemasonry must 'not perish from the e·arth, for its mission is to curb intemperate passions, reconcile conflicting interests and destroy the pride of conquest and the pomp Of war, There is grav\e danger that when the iron grip of tyrants is
,""".
f
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26
[Sept.
,Proceedings of the'
released froni' throats they long have' strangled ana governmental control 'is relaxed following the exigencies of war, that ,liberty'may degenerate into license, and that pen~l laws and poli~ical regulations will fail, to procure peace and good order;' however the~e is no danger but that the principles of brotherly love, relfef and truth will appeal to men of all languages, of all' relig,ions, and to the remotest nations of the earth. "For there is no speech so _barbarous but their language is understood; nor nations so .distant, but their voices are h~ard among them." Truly man's }nhumanity to man' is making countless millions mourn, and it is ours to mellow, so far as in us lies, the acts of mankind and tO continue as we always have, to teach the doc'trines of righteousness and' justice; hoping always and praring ever that when this storm of madness and hate which now en路 velopes us shall have, blown itself out, that' we, as, Freemasons, may still retain our ideals of fin"any uniting the ,whole world into one grand universal brotherhood. There may be difficulties ,and contentions; but in my judgment I
"those, opened eyes, Which, like the meteors of a Jroubled heaven All of one nature, of one substance bred, Did lately meet in th', intestine shock, Shall now, in mutual, well be-seeming'ranks March all one way." . I would have the Craft in Missouri stand for true progress, which is something more than rumbling, engines' and, clinking hammers, and is independent of them. I would have you realize that it is the advancement of humanity in the knowledge of its 1,. . .frailtY and dependence; the elevation of the mind, above its own ", ("~., : ii1?!te.d acquirements to' the In.finite Source of Knowledge; the . ' ..:,:" c.1earing of the heart of its own selfishness and uncleanness; in ',""flffit,:'tt is anything whatever that tends to bring men closer to - i,';,,'\ .. t~~,DtVine Exerriplar of perfect manhood. We have pledged our , . , Uves, 'our treasures ~and our sacred honor in the contest in which, , . , '.1- :'~';we', are now engaged, and in the dark days that' may follow, 'I . ._'..:' ,"::,:路.;'~hope that Freemasonry may be an angel of mercy. 路bearing upon . ' ." " 'its wings the balm ~f healing. ' , May the A.-uthor, of Nature, the Grand Master of. all, bless you and yours' abundantlY. t
Fraternally submitted; WM. A. CLARK, Grand Master.
1918.]
Grand Lodge of A1issouri.
27.
TELEGRAM TO PRESIDENT WILSON. 1\1. \A/. Bro. V.,r m. F.' Kuhn offered the following resolution. to be wired to the President of the United States, wh~ch was unanimously adopted: To the President of the United States:
The Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted· Masons of the State of Missouri, assembled in its 98th Annual CommunIcation, renews it pledge made one year ago; to support the Administration in all its efforts to win' the war, to establ~sli Democracy throughout the earth, and that peace, justice and righteousness may everywhere prevail.
"
There are no slackers, hyphenates or traitors among the Freemasons of Missouri. WM. F. KUHN, .' A. M. HOUGH. .
TEE PRESIDEN1'S REPLY.
..
The White House, Washington, D. C., Sept. 17, 1918. Masonic Grand L o d g e , ' • Saint Louis, Missouri: - ~"'.I ' Your messagEl 'has given.me the deepest gratification and'" refreshing encouragement and I thank you most warmly. WOODROW WILSON.
..: .. ~
CONTRIBUTION TO HOME ENDOWMENT FUND,. The Grand Secretary read the following letter from Bro; , Robert E. Black, member of New Hope Lodge No. 199, of Elsberry, tr,ansmitting check for $1,OOO;to establish the Robert. E. Black Endowment Fund of the IV[a~onic H<;m1c: Same referred to the Committee on l\lasonic HOtr;le for proper recognition. SL Louis, September 17, 1918. Dear Brother Parson: Grand Secretary. You will find enclosed check for $1,000 on Boatmen's Bank,
,
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[Sept.
Proceedings of the
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which you ,vill please place to credit of the Masonic Home, State of Missouri, Endowment Fund, same to be known as Robert Elliott ..Black Endowment Fund; the principal to remain intact and interest to be used as By-Laws prescribe. Yours' fraternally, ROBERT E. BLACK, Member of New Hope Lodge No. 199, '. Elsberry, Mo. ."i
i.
..PROPOSED AMENDMENT' TO BY-LAWS. . \!\T. ~ro. G. A. Samj)Ie offered the following proposed amel1dment. to Section 165, of Article XV, of Grand Lodge By-Laws: , To amend Art. 15, Sec. 165 o'f the By-Laws of'the Grand Lodge of Ancie~t Free a,nd Accepted· Masons of the State of Missouri, .by 'a~ding section known as Section 165A.
"
.:. -: ---: . :.. ; 'Req'ri~sts, to confer degr~es, to a lodge of another Grand , ~ ~~ '_~~ ;' 'Ju~isdiction from a lodg~ of this Grand Jurisdiction, or a lodge \, .,': '~"'of this Grand Jurisdiction from' a lodge of another Grand Juris~.~~-;~:.";' diction, shall be made through the Gr'and Master.
to
4
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~
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G. A. SAMPLE, 'L. 0.. BEAZLEY, J.W. INGRAM, M. H .. STUBBLEFIELD, T. C. DAVIS.
Of.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON NECROLOGY. M., \"1. Bro. C'. H, Briggs' presented and read the following report of Committee on Necrology, which was adopted:
Your Committee' on Obituaries offer the following: ..
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'
Death has not im;aded the ranks of the officers of this Grand .Lodge. during the year, though many of our faithful workers in the SUbordinate lodges have passed to their reward. A. suitable memOrial page in' their honor will appear in our Proceedings, and their virtues will be cherished by their fellow workers who knew . their' worth and were inspired by their zeal and devotion to the .Craf~ .
.'
, Many of our most efficient workers have already entered the service of their country, and we }{now not how soon they will be
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.:
1918.] .
Grand Lodge of J."W. issouri.
29
called upon to sacrifice their lives upon the altar of humanity in the holiest war in which sword was ever drawn. Every principle for which Freemasonry stands has been ruthlessly violated by the Mad Beast of Berlin and his fellow criminals who have left behind them a trail of desolation and outrage unparalleled in human history until the "Unspeakable Turk" has been forgotten in the "Unthinkable Hun." The Freemason who is not ready to do his part in the effort to curb this madness and make this world a safe place for the innocent and helpless is unworthy of a place in our Order. But we do not believe there are any of these recreant ones in this.Grand Lodge. With a unanimity which speaks well for 路our professions, the members of our Order everywhere are answering their Country's call resolved to forego no sacrifice that may' be necessary to make their world "safe for Democracy," A still more important task is to make democracy safe for the world. A democracy like that which has been running amuck in Russia is even more dangerous than autocracy. Only as men are intelligent and instructed in the principles for which Freemasonry stands can democracy be trusted. While no officer of this Grand Lodge has died during the year, the older members of this body will remember William Richardson, who for years served the Craft as Grand Marshal, and who has entered into rest. William Richardson, Past Grand Marshal, was born at Utica, New York, November 12, 1841, and died in St. Louis, February 4, 1918, aged seventy-six years. From 1889 to 1899 he was Grand Marshal of the Grand Lodge of Missouri and in 1894 was elected Grand 'Master of the Grand Council. He was raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason in Union Lodge No. 47, at Utica, New York, October 5, 1865, and was installed Worshipful Master of Keystone Lodge, St. Louis, in December, 1881. He was exalted in Kilwinning Chapter No. 50, at St. .Louis, May 15, 1869, and was installed High Priest in December, 1883. He received the Order of High Priesthood May 8, 1884. He passed the Circle in Hiram Council No.1, at St. Louis, September 13, 1882, and was installed Master in December, 1891. He was Knighted in St. Aldemar Commandery No. 18, May 13, 1876. He was engaged in the hardware business in St. Louis over fifty years. He commanded the respect and confidence of his brethren in all branches of Freemasonry, and proved himself a good workman路 everywhere. The older members of the Grand Lodge and Grand Council will remember him as a quiet unassuming Craftsman of sterling worth. From other Grand .rurisdictions we pen the following names:
30
Proceedings of the
.[ Sept.
ARKANSAS. Charles Augustus Bridewell, Past Grand Master, was born at Port Gibson, Mississippi, August 12, 1838, and died at his home in Hope, Arkansas, November 18, 1917, aged seventy-nine years. He attended every session of his Grand Lodge for thirty-six years. As President of the Masonic Home he rendered devoted and efficient service to the Craft. He was a teacher by profession. COLORADO. James Hamilton Peabody, Past Grand Master, was born at Lopsham, Vermont, August 21, 1852, and died November 23, 1917, aged sixty-five years. He was elected Grand Master of the Grand Lodge' in 1884, Grand Commander in 1888 and Grand High Prie~t in 1896. He moved to Denver when twenty and three years later engaged in business in Canon City, Colorado, entering a store' of which in seven years he became proprietor. He was Treasurer of Canon City, City Clerk, Alderman, Mayor, School Director, County Clerk and Recorder. He organized the Canon City Waterworks, the Electric Power and Light Co., First National Bank, Canon City and Royal Gorge Railroad Co., the Central Coal and Supply Co., and the Canon City Pressed Brick Co., and held official positions in these various corporations. It is no wonder the people of Colorado elected him Governor by a large majority; and that in the greatest crisis in the history of his State he showed strength, courage and integrity. For many years he was a member of Christ Episcopal Church. I George D. Kennedy, Past Grand Master was born at Centralia, Illinois, September 27, 1869, and died at Colorado Springs, Colorado, January 26, 1918, aged forty-eight years. He was elected Grand Master in 1901 and Grand High Priest in 1908. He practiced dentistry for some years in Colorado Springs and in California. CONNECTICUT. James McCormick, Past Gr.and Master, was born at Flushing, New York, March 29, 1831, and died at his home in Windsor, Connecticut, June 24, 1917, aged eighty-six years. He was Grand Master of the Grand Lodge in 1881 and 1882, Grand High Priest in 1885 and 1886 and in 1894 became Grand Secretary of the Grand Chapter and held both offices until his death. He was a cigar manufacturer and a tobacco expert of ,wide reputation. He was Senior Warden and a lay reader in, Grace Episcopal Church of Windsor.
\"
1918.]
Grand Lodge of Missouri.
31
"INDIANA. Edward O'Rourke,. Past Grand Master, was born at Newark, New Jersey, October 12, 1836, and died at his home in Fort Wayne, Indiana, July 5, 1918, aged eighty-two years. He waS elected Grand Master in 1895. He was admitted to the bar in 1866. In 1867 he was elected Prosecuting Attorney for Allen County and served five years. In 1875 he was elected Circuit Judge and filled that office thirty-six years. The degree of Doctor of Law was conferred upon him by Taylor University. For many years he served his Grand Lodge as Chairman of the Committee. on Grievances and Appeals. \
KANSAS. J. Jay Buck, Past Grand Master, ,vas born in Duchess County, New York, August 13, 1835, and died at his home in gmporia, Kansas, September 3, 1917, 'aged eighty-two years. He was Grand Principal Sojourner in 1879, Grand Principal Conductor of the Work in 1882, Grand Master' of the Grand Lodge in 1884, and Grand Commander in 1887. He practiced law and was prominent in State affair,s, being often called upon to assume the responsibilities of official trust, and was particularly active in advancing the interests of the State Normal at Emporia. In' the Civil War he was a soldier in the Federal Army. Charles H. Chandler, Past Grand Master, was born at Chester, Vermont, November 11, 1864, and died at his home in Topeka, Kansas, December 18, 1917, aged fifty:three years. He was elected Grand Master of the Grand Lodge in 1914. In the Grand Chapter he was elected Grand Scribe in 1917. He 'was State Architect of Kansas at the time of his death. KENTUCKY . .James W. Hopper, Past Grand Master, was born in Nicholas County, Kentucky, November 28, 1839, and died at Lyndon, Kentucky, May 8, 1917, aged seventy-seven' years. He was elected Grand Master of the Grand CounciJ. in 1885, Grand. Master of the Grand Lodge in 1886, and Grand High Priest in 1897. He was County Attorney for Marion County for two terms, and then engaged in the newspaper business, and was Associate Editor of the Louisville. Courier-Journal nineteen years, He was Poet of the, Kentucky Press Association in 1872, Orator in 1874 'and President in 1886 and 1887. Howard Royal French, Past Grand Master, was born in Prince \Villiam County, Virginia, August 15, 1847, and died at his home in Mt. Sterling, Kentucky, September 11, 1917, aged seventy years. He. was elected Grand High Priest in 1882, and Grand Ma~ter of the Grand Lodge in 1883. In 1912 he was elected Grand Secretary of the Grand Chapter and Grand Recorder of the Grand "Council.
(;
32
Proceedings of the
[Sept.
He filled stations of honor and trust" under both the Federal and State governments, was a Captain in the Second Kentucky State Guard and a banker in Mt. Sterling. He was Senior Warden of the Episcopal Church. Charles Anton Gipe, Grand Tyler, was born in Germany, May 29, 1831, and died in Louisville, Kentucky, May 30, 1918, aged eightyseven years. He was Grand Tyler of the Grand Lodge and Grand Sentinel of the Grand Chapter and Grand Council. LOUISIANA. Charles Francis Buck, Past Grand Master, was born in Durheim, Germany, November 5, 1'841, and died in New Orleans, January ,19, .1918, aged seventy-six years. He was elected Grand Master in 1887 and filled the office six years. He was elected Grand Commander in 1893 and again in" 1894 and 1895. He was City Attorney of New Orleans four years, was a member of the School Board a number of years and served one term in Congress. MAINE. Augustus Bowman Farnham, Past Grand Master, was born in Bangor, Maine, March 10, 1839, and died in that City, January 14, 1918, aged seventy-nine years. He was elected Grand Commander in 1877 and Grand Master in 1895, and again in 1896. He entered the Federal Army as a First Lieutenant in 1861, and in 1863 became Inspector General and Chief of Staff of the Third Division. After the war he "engaged in the wholesale grocery business in Bangor. He was Postmaster of Bangor twenty y"ears and was Adjutant Ge'neral of Maine fr0m 1902 to 1909. MANITOBA. John l\1cKeehnie, Past Gra\ld Master and Past. Gra?d Treasurer, \,Vas born in Scotland, Augu# 14, 1844, and died In Winnipeg, Manitoba, May 30, 191~ aged seventy-four years. He was elected Grand Treasurer in 1885 and served twenty-one years. In 1906 he was 'elected Grand Master. For some years he followed the trade of millwright, but shortly after removing to Winnipeg in 1872 took charge of the Vulcan Iron Works, which he developed into one of the leading industries of the Province of Manitoba. He was a devout and active member of the Knox Presbyterian Church of Winnipeg. /
1\iARYLANlJ. Thomas Jacob Shryock, Grand Master, was born in Baltimore, February 27, 1851, and died at his home in that City; February 3, 1918, aged sixty-seven years.
1918. ]
Grand Lodge of Missouri.
33
After serving two terms as Grand Treasurer of the Grand Council, he was elected Grand Master in 1881. He was elected Grand 'Master of the Grand Lodge in 1885, and held that office until his death. He was elected Grand Commander in 1897, and Grand High Priest in 1914. He was appointed General Grand Treasurer of the General Grand Chapter of thc United States in July, 1915, and was elected to that office the following September. He was Treasurer of Maryland four years; a Brigadier General of the Staff of the Governor; four years a Commissioner of Police of Baltimore; for several years a member of its Sewerage Commission; President of the Iron Mountain and Greenbrier Railroad of West Virginia;' Treasurer of the Maryland State Hospital a.t Springfield; President of the Board of House of Reformation for Colored Boys; Director of the Second National Bank of Baltimore, the Consolidated Gas, Electric Light and Power Company of that City; the Chesapeake and Potomac Telephone Company, the Bell Telephone Company of Pennsylvania and other corporations. Samuel Mansfield, Past Grand Senior Warden, was born in Kent County, Maryland, September 27, 1845, and died at his home in Baltimore, March 9, 1918, aged seventy-two years. He was elected Senior Grand Warden of the Grand Lodge in 1907 and Grand Commander in 1912. As clerk and proprietor he was engaged in the drug business at one place fifty-three years and established a reputation as a druggist second to none in Baltimore. He was, Treasurer of the "Old Maryland College of Pharmacy" many years. NEBRASKA. Manoah B. Reese, Past Grand Master, was born in Macoupin County, Illinois, September 5, 1839, and died in Lincoln, Nebraska, September 28, 1917, aged seventy-eight years. He was elected Grand Master in 1885. . For many years he was Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Nebraska. He was President of the Nebraska Veteran Freemasons' Association one year, and for a number of years one of the Trustees of the Nebraska Masonic Home. William E. Hill, Past Grand Master, was born in Chautauqua County, Ne\v York, December 5, 1826, and died in Los Angeles, California, December 29, 1917, aged ninety-one years. He was elected 'Grand Master in 1871 and served two years. He was President of the Otoe County Bank at Nebraska City eight years and was one of the Commissioners for th~ 'rebuilding of the State Hospital for the Insane at Lincoln. Receiving an appointment in the Bureau of Animal Industry he removed to Los Angeles and made that City his home until his death. Frank Henry Orcutt Young, Past Grand Master, was born at Calais, Maine, November 7, 1852, and died on the coast of Florida, December 24, 1917, aged sixty-five years.
34
Proceedings of the
JSept.
He was elected Grand Master of the Grand Council i'n 1888 and again in 1890, Grand High Priest in 1890, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge in 1898, and Gl'and Commander in 1916. He was President of the Nebraska Masonic Home and of the Nebraska Freemasons' Association when he died. He 'was County Clerk of Phelps and Custer Counties, and also held other important offices. For a number of years he was Receiver of Public Moneys at the United States I.. . and Office in Broken Bow, Nebraska. NEW YORK. George Freifeld, Past Grand Master of New York, vember 16, 1917.
died No-
M. W. Bro. Edw. M. L. Ehlers passed into the life eternal at his home in New York on Monday, May 28, 1917. For more than thirty-five years Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of New York, he had become known to thousands of brethren from all parts of the State, to each of whom the notice of his death brought genuine sorrow, and throughout the entire Masonic world his passing occasioned keen regret. He was born in Denmark, January 31, 1840. It has been said that he was the best-k.nown Mason in the world, and unquestionably there were few whoHe fame and influence had further spread in the Craft. NORTH CAROLINA. John Nicholas, Past Grand Master, was born in Wake County, North Carolina, November 13, 1834, and died at his home in Raleigh, September 28, 1917, aged eighty-three years. He was elected Grand High Priest in 1871 and 1872 and in 1875 was elected Grand Treasurer and served six years. In the Grand Lodge he was elected Grand Master 'in 1872, and again in 1873. In the Grand Council he was elected Grand Master, two terms and then served¡as Grand Treasurer three years.
served
A printer by trade l1e was Principal of the Institution for the Deaf, Dumb and Blind at Raleigh, five years \\'as Postmaster at Raleigh, and served one term in Congress. He was connected with the Treasury Department fou"r years and from 1893 until his death was United States Commissioner at Raleigh. Leo D. Heartt, Grand Treasurer, was born in Raleigh:, North Carolina, September 6, 1850, and died in that city, December 13, 1917. aged sixty-seven years. He was Grand Treasurer of the Grand Lodge of .North Carolina from 1~05 until his death. In the Grand Commandery he was. elected Grand Warden and advanced each year until he w~ chosen Grand Captain General in 1917. â&#x20AC;˘ As a boy he served as a Confederate Courier in the Civil War. His life was given chiefly to the banking business,. but at the time of his death he was clerk of the United States D.istrict Court.
1918.]
Grand Lodge of J.111路ssouri.
35
NOVA SCOTIA. Luther B. Archibald, Past Grand Master: died at his home in Truro, Nova Scotia. February 10, 1918. He was a Master Mason forty-eight years. He was elected Grand High Priest in 1887. Grand Master in 1902 and from 19.09 to 1911 was Supreme Grand Master of the Knights Templar of Canada. His life was spent in the service of the Canadian Government Railway System in which he held many positions of trust and 'responsibliity. OREGON. William Thomas \Vright, Past Grand Master, was born at Mt. Carmel, Illinois, July 28, 1845, and died at his home in Union, Oregon, December 11, 1917, aged seventy-two years. He was elected Grand Master in 1883, Grand High Priest in 1899, and Grand Commander in 1901. For more than half a century he was a commanding figure in Eastern Oregon, being identified with its mercantile, milling and banking. interests.. In forty-two years he missed only one session of his Grand Lodge. Julius Caesar Moreland, Past Grand Master, was born in Smith County, Tennessee, in 1844, and died at his home in Salem, Oregon, F'ebruary 2, 1918, in his seventy-fourth year. He was elected Grand Master in, 1893. He was admitted to t.he bar in 1867. He served the City of Portland as a member of the City Council and as City Attorney and was County Judge of Multnomah County. From June, B07, until his death,. he was Clerk of the Supreme Court of Oregon. Henry B. Thielsen, Past Grand Master, was born in Michigan, March 1, 1850, and died at his home in Salem, Oregon, April 7, 1918, aged sixty-.eight years. He was elected Grand Master in 1900, Grand High Priest in 1901 and Grand Commander in 1911. His profession was that of Civil Engineer. He was Assistant 'Chief Engineer of the Oregon and California Railroad, Chief Eng-ineer of the Oregon Railway and Navigation Company and filled other important positions in the railway development of the Northwest. He gained the good will of superiors and subordinates in discharging the duties of his profession. Septimus Stoven S!)encer, Past Grand Master, was born near Eug-ene, Oregon, September 27, 1865, and died in that city July 15, 1918, ag-ed fifty-three years. He was elected Grand Master of the Grand Council in 1909, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge in 1913 and Grand High Priest in 1916.
36
Proceedings of the
[Sept.
His life was spent in business in the City of Eugene where he enjoyed the confidence, and esteem of his associates and many prominen't citizens of the State. SOUTH DAKOTA. Samuel Augustine Brown, Past Grand Master, was born at North Cove, North Carolina, June 25, 1848, and di~d at Sioux Falls, South Dakota, February 5, 1918, in his seventieth year. He was elected Grand Captain of the Host in lD05, and Grand Master in 1909. After thirteen years as Surgeon in the United States Navy and in Naval Hospitals, he resigned, and from 1884 until his death practiced his profession at Sioux Falls. He was Health Officer for Sioux Falls and for Minnehaha County and Pension Examiner from 1894 until his death. He was a member of the Episcopal Church, and Senior Warden twenty years. TEXAS. .John P. Bell, Past Grand Master, was born at Industry, Texas, December 22, 1844, and ~ied at San Angelo, Texas.. April 1, 1918, aged seventy-three years. He was elected Grand High Priest in路 1890 and Grand Master in 1906. He was admitted to the bar in 1868 and for more than twenty years, served as County .Judge of Austin County.. He was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South. He served in the Confederate路 Army through the Civil War. UTAH. Louis Cohn, Past Grand Master, was born at Doberzyn, Russian Poland, April 18, 1841, and died in Oakland, California, July 2, 1918, aged seventy-seven years. He was the first Deputy Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Utah, and was afterward elected Grand Master. In 1865 he became a resident of Salt Lake where he engaged in a general mercantile business. VERMONT. Park Davis, 路Past Grand Master, was born at Athens, Vermont, September 24, 1837, and died at his home in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, August 20, 1917, aged eighty years. He was elected Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Vermont in 1871, 1872 and -1873, and Grand High Priest of the Grand Chapter of South Dakota in 1890. He was admitted to the bar in Vermont in 1864. He removed to Sioux }1'alls in 1886 and engaged in the practice of law until 1915. While in Vermont he served two years in the House of Representatives..
1918. ]
Grand Lodge of Missouri.
37
WEST VIRGINIA. John M. Hamilton, Past Grand Master, was born at Weston, West Virginia, March 16, 1855, and died at his home in Grantsville, . \Vest Virginia, September 27, 1916, a:ged sixty-one years. He was elected Grand Master in 1889. A lawyer by profession, he served the Town of Weston as Recorder and was at different times Clerk of both branches of the West Virginia Legislature. He was, a member of the House of Delegates and represented this District in the United States Congress. Wyndham Stokes, Past Grand Master, was born at Germantown, Pennsylvania, July 13, 1866, and died at Welch, West Virginia, March 12, 1917, aged fifty-one years. In 1910 he was elected Grand Ma~ter of the Grand Lodge and Grand High Priest. He' practiced law' at Welch for more than twenty years and took high r.ank in his profession. The youngest of these honored brethren was only forty-eight, the eldest ninety-one; the average being more than seventy-two years. Full of years and honors they came to the end of their days having not only served the Craft faithfully, but also having filled important positions in business and civil life. One was Governor of his State, others were members of Congress. Some were Judges, and others filled various places of trust. The prominence of members of our Order in all the walks of life from the times of the Colonies has been a leavening' infiuence in American society and has been no small factor in making us as a Nation strong enough to stand in the hour of the world's supreme need as a stone wall against which the militarism which is trying to dominate the world is dashing itself to pieces. In bringing about that better day for humanity-which is coming-Freemasonry will have an important part; and in spreading our principles we are serving humanity. Fraternally submitted, CORONA H. BRIGGS, L. E. FORD, P. G. COOK. J. B. HUTCHISON" H. C. SMITH, R. L. GARNER, P; E. PARKER, Committee.
38
[Sept.
Proceedings of the
STANDING COMMITTE'ES. The Grand lVlaster announced the following Standing and Special Committees: JURISPRUDENCE-A. Thos. Dumm, Chairman; B. E. Bigger, Arch 'A. Johnson, H.obert R. Kreeger, Frank R. Jesse, Ransom A. Breuer. APPEALS AND GRIEVANCES-Robert A. May, Chairman; Homer N. Lloyd, Jno. C. Robertson, Thos. F. Hurd, Emmett .s. Ballard, W. A. Phipps, Dorsey A. Jamison. WAYS AND MEANS--Frank R. Jesse, Chairman; I John T. Short, T. W. Cotton, George Coslow, Chas. E. Clowe, E. R. Childers, E. A. Fluesmeier, H. C. Chiles. CREDENTIALS-Aug. F. Weeke, Chairman; W. B. Massey, Eo C. W. Ortmann, J. A. Oliver, D. A. Brown, I.F. ~trycker, H. Eo Doerner. PAY ROLL-路B, F. Wilson, Chairman; Caesar Thompson, Wm. D. Moore, Thos. J. Porter.
Wollman,
J. E.
CHAH.TERED LODGES-Clarence L. Alexander, Chairman; W. J. Kennedy, E. N. Laird, C. C. Hawken, R. H. Woods, G. C. Jackson, F. P. McAtee. LODGES UNDER DISPENSATION-James A. Boone, Chairman; E. E. Divinia, H. H. O'Hara, J. W. Buffington, H. D. Evans, G. A. McCaskill, H. H. McIntyre. CHARITY-Homer N. Lloyd, Chairman; A. J. _O'Reilly, E. W. Prentiss, Emsley C. James, E. C. ,Vhite, R. R: Kreeger, Chas. E. Pyle, H. L. Mann. REPORTS OF DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTERS-Geo. S. McLanahan, .Chairman; Chas. Beggs, E. L. Legg, A. H. Winkelmeyer, Geo. F. Siddons, H. H. Haas, E. L. Speer, E. II. Irwin. MASONIC BOARDS OF RELIEF-Louis Moller, Chairman; J. E. Millsap,' A. T: Vaughn, H. S. Wilson, G. C. Carnahan, J. P. Tucker. J.
RITUAIJ-D. M. Wilson, Chairman; R. R. Kreeger, Jno. T. Short, McLachlan, Frank R . .Jesse, Karl M. Vetsburg.
n.
MASONIC HOME-Arthur R. Timmerman, Chairman; E. W. Tayler, T. H. Walton, S. P. Cunningham, R. B. Campbell, W. N. Marbut, G. J. Vaughan. CORRESPONDENCE-C. C.Woods, Chairman. AUDITING-H. Clay Perkins, Chairman. OBITUARIBS-Corona H. Briggs, Chairman; L. K Ford, P. G. Cook, J. R. Hutchison, H. C. Smith, n. L. Garner, P. E. Parker.' GRAND MASTER'S ADDRESS-A. M. Dockery, Chairman. UNFINISHED BUSINESS-Bernal L. Tatman, Chairman; W. E. Shulenberg, 1. 'ViUrup, Wm. A. Peck, R. L. Peters, Wm. A. Minor. TRANSPORTATION AND HOTELS-F. L. Magoon, Chairman.
1918. ]
39
Grand Lodge of Missouri.
SPECIAL. COMMITTEES. I3-ECEPTION, COMMITTEE (l918)-Wm. F. Kuhn, D. A. Jamison, Wm. A. Hall. UNIFORMITY OF BONDS-Sol. E. Waggoner, Chairman; A. M. Hough, D. A. Jamison. LIBRARY-J.n.
~cLachlan,
C. C. Woods, B. L. Tatman.
RECOGNITION OF FOREIGN GRAND LODGES-Wm. F. Kuhn, J. "\-V. Boyd, C. C. \Voods, Corona H. Briggs, A. S. Houston, Wm. A. Hall. MANUALS-John Wm. C. Heck.
n.
Parson; Geo. A. Mayhall, Jno. H. Gundlach,
RITUAL-D. M. Wilson, R. R. Kreeger, Jno. McLachlan, Frank R. Jesse, Karl M. Vetsburg.
T.
Short,
J.
R
LEASE OF OFFICES-A. :Tesse, .J. M. Gibson.
Lampert,
F.
R.
l\f.
Dockery,
Jacob
MASONIC TEMPLE-Thad. B. Landon, Jno. T. Short, James L. Heckenlively.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON FRATERNAL CORRESPONDENCE. M. VV. Bro. C. C. \iVoods, Chairman, presented the report of Committee on Fraternal Correspondence, which was adopt~ ed and ordered printed in the Proceedings. (See Appendix.)
STANDING RESOLUTION. IVI:. VV. Bro. C. H. Briggs presented the following standing resolution which' on motion was unanimously adopted: Whereas, It was amending Section '182 signing petitions for Grand Master in his
the evident purpose of this Grand Lodge, in of the By-Laws, to prohibit Freemasons from dram shop licenses, as pointed out by the address, therefore, be it
Resolved, That it is the sense of this' Grand Lodge that Section 182, as amended, should be construed in accordance with the evident purpose of the Grand Lodge in adopting it; that is, that Freemasons shall not sign petitions for. dram shop licenses. C. H. BRIGGS, W. F. KUHN, A. IVr. HOUGH.
40
Proceedings of the
[Sept.
CALLED FROM LABOR: At 12':15 P. M. 'the Grand Lodge was CALLED FROM LABOR until 1 :30 P. IV1. this afternoon. Prayer by R." W. and Rev. Bro. John H. l\!Iiller; Grand Chaplain. FIRST DAY-AFTERNOON SESSION. The Grand Lodge was CALLED TO LABOR at 1 :30 P. 1v1. by Most Vvorshipful Grand l\J1aster \Villiam A. Clark, the other Grand Officers being in their respective stations. Divine blessing invoked' by R.- VV. and Rev. Bro. Arthur Mather, Grand Chaplain.
REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON UNIFORMITY OF' BONDS. W. Bro. ~ol. E. Waggoner, Chairman, presented the following report of Special Committee on Uniformity of Bonds, which was adopted: St. Louis" Mo., Sept. 17, 1918. To the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge, A. F. & A. M. of Missouri. .-J Brethren: Your committee, appointed by the Grand Master as per resolutions, passed by the Grand Lodge at its last session on the question of Uniformity of Bonds, beg to report. On investigating we found that the Masonic Home was receiving a rate of twenty cents on one'hundred dollars. The Grand Lodge on the Treasurer's bond was paying twenty~five cents, and on the Secretary's bond a thirty cent rate. . After taking the question up with the Bonding Companies, all Companies except路 the Aetna Company (which 路was bonding the Masonic Home) made rate of twenty cents on the one hundred dollars based on taking out bonds to the amount of $300,000.00, while the Aetna Bonding Company would grant the same rate to the Grand Lodge and local Lodges that they were giving to the Masonic Home, hence it was deemed advisable to place the bonds with the Aetna Bonding Company. The bond covers the office of Secretary, and the office of Treasurer (not the individual officers), hence a change of Secretary or Treasurer during any year will not invalidate the bond and all they will be required to do. is to notify the路 Bonding Company that a change has been made. The Aetna Bonding Company wrote letters to every Lodge in the State offering to bond their officers at the same rate as given
1918.]
41
Grand Lodge of Missouri.
to the Masonic Home, regardless of the路 amount, and the following Lodges have availed themselves of the privilege: No. No. No. No. No. No. No. No.
369, 590, 188, 630, 209,
Composite Lodge Amount Advance Lodge Amount Hannibal Lodge Amount East Gate Lodge Amount Poplar Bluff Lodge .Amount 499, Harmony Lodge Amount 501, Buckner Lodge Amount 2[14, Mound City Lodge .. Amount
$1000.00-~Premium $2.00
1000.00-Premium lOOO.OO-Premium l500.00-Premium 3000.00-Premium 1000.OO-Premium 700.00-Premium lOOO.OO-Premium
2.00 2.00 3.00 6.00 2.00 1.40 2.00
Fraternally' submitted, S. E. WAGGONER, A. M. HOUGH,
DORSEY A. JAMISON, Committee.
42
Proceedings of the
[Sept.
REPORT QF THE GRAND SECRETARY. M. W. Bro. John R. Parson, Grand Secretary, presented the annual report of his office, which was adopted as follows: To the Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of the State of Missouri: Pursuant to custom and the Grand Lodge law, the following report of official work in the office of Grand Secretary is presented for your consideration covering the period between September 10, 1917, and September 12th, 1918: NEW LODGES. Six new lodges, chartered at the last session of the Grand Lodge, were set at work according to law, and are named and located as follows: Chartered September '19, 1917. Clarkton Lodge No. 248, at Clarkton, Dunklin County, Fifty-first District. Morgan Lodge No. 320, at Versailles, Morgan County, Fiftyeighth District. Harmony Lodge No. 499, at St. Louis, Thirty-third District. Euclid Lodge No. 505, at St. Louis, Thirty-third District. Algabil Lodge No. 544, at St. Louis, Thirty-third DistriCt. Warrenton Lodge No. 609, at Warrenton, Warreri County, Thirtieth District. LODGE ARRESTED. The charter of Niangua Lodge No. 529 was arrested for cause by the Grand Master, February 2, 1918; ledger, record and charter have been, received by the Grand Secretary. PROCEEDINGS DISTRIBUTED. The Proceedings of 1917 were printed and distributed 47 days after the session. DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTERS. By order of M. W. Bro. Wm. A. Clark, Grand Master, commissions were sent to the fifty-nine District Deputy Grand Masters by him appointed. COMMISSIONS RECEIVED. Grand Master Clark recommended for appointment the following brethren as Grand Representatives of sistel' Grand Lodges near the Grand Lodge of Missouri: Georgia Ireland Mississippi Oregon , Vermont.
: ,
Rt. W. Bro. J. Richard Garstang, Chamois Rt. W. Bro. S. W. Hurst, Tipton Rt. ,V. Bro. J. Kelly Pool, Jefferson City Rt. W. Bro. A. R. Timerman, St. Joseph Rt. W. Bro. Caesar Wollman, Jefferson City
1918. ]
43
Grand Lodge of Missouri. COMMISSION TO GRAND REPRESENTATIVE.
Grand Master Clark appointed the following brother as Grand Representative of Missouri near the Grand Lodge of Maine Rt. W. Bro. Charles B. Davis, Portland SOUVENIR
OF
OnSERVANCE BI-CENTENNIAL LODGE OF ENGLAND.
OF
GRAND
As instructed by the Grand Lodge, 1917, the bourld souvenir of the observance of the Bi-Centennial of the Grand Lodge of England, as prepared by the committee, was forwarded to the Grand Secretary, who fraternally acknowledged same on December 15, 1917. DUPLICATE CHARTERS. By order of Grand Master Clark duplicate charters were sent to the following lodges: Grandview Lodge No. 618; December 28, 1917. Maryville LOdge No. 165; February 6, 1918; fire. Nodaway Lodge No. 470; February 6, 1918; fire. Warren Lodge No. 74; March 18, 1918; fire . .Au llvill e Lodge No. 464; became illegible and was restored. LODGES UNDER DISPENSATION. Grand Master Clark granted dispensations for ~wo new lodges as follows: May 2, 1918, Apollo Lodge, St. Louis, 21 petitioners; Thirtythird District. May 20. 1918, Clever Lodge, Clever, Christian County, 21 petitioners; Fifty-fourth District. BLANKS FOR ANNUAL RETURNS. Two copies were mailed June 1st to each lodge, together with circular giving full Information as to time and manner of making returns; and. on July 5th, a sealed circular was sent to all nonreporting . lodges, calling attention to the law governing making of returns and payment of per capita tax. Notwithstanding these full and explicit directions there were 25 delinquents on August 1st. Nineteen of these d.elinquents have now reported and paid Grand Lodge dues. LOD.GE RETURNS. Returns from 637 of the 643 lodges show a marked increase numerically and financially with a net gain of 4,057. There are six non-reporting lodges which have not complied with the law. DELINQUENT LODGES. The following lodges have not complied with the law of the Grand Lodge as to making returns or paying Grand Lodge dues: ·No. 37, Hemple, Hemple, Clinton County; reported 1917, 46 members. ·No. 200, Sonora, ·Watson,· Atchison, County; reported 1917, 27 members. No. 223, Woodlawn, Woodlawn, Monroe County; reported 1917, 16 members. mem·~~s. 234, St. Francois, Libertyville, St. Francois County; 34 ·No. 252, Alantlius, Alanthus Grove, Gentry County; reported 1917,51 members. . • I ·No. 592, Stoutsville, Stoutsville, Monroe County; 28 members. ·Reported September 13th, too late to be included in financia.l statement or membership tabulation.
44
Proceedings of the
(Sept.
REMOVAL OF LODGE. Aullville Lodge No. 464 to Concordia, Lafayette County, January 2, 1918. STATISTICAL. Number of chartered lodges in the jurisdiction... . . . . . . . . . . . .. 643 Number of lodges making returns............................. 637 Number of members in lodges making returns 73,938 Number of members (1917) in 6 non-reporting lodges......... 202 Number of members in lodges U. D. (2)....................... 46 Number of members in Niangua Lodg-e 529 (arrested 2/18)..... 15 Total number of Master Masons in the jurisdiction : 74,201 Net gahi in membership for the year 4,057 BLANKS FOR REPORTS OF DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTERS. Blanks for these reports were sent July 1st to the District Deputy Grand Masters of the several Masonic Districts. SPECIAL DISPENSATIONS. To Lay Corner Stones. C. H. Briggs, P. G. M., New High School building at Smithville, September 20, 1917. W. Master of Winona Lodge No. 430, school building at Winona, October 5. C. H. Briggs, P. G. M., Robberson Avenue Baptist Church, Springfield, October 5. " A. M. Harlan, D. D. G. M., new building for Consolidated School District No.3, October 13. F. R.o Jesse, P. G. M., North Presbyterian Church, St. Louis, November 17. Jno. H. Roach, W. M. of Canopy Lodg-e No. 284, New City Hall, A urora, April 1. W. B. Massey, D. D. G. M., Centenary M. E. Church, Bonne Terre, June 11. REMOVAL OF LODGES AND DEDICATION OF HALLS. W. N. Marbut, D. D. G. M., Seligman No. 517, September 27, 1917. R. A. Breuer, D. D. G. M., Owensvl11e No. 624, October 5. M. C. Robinson, W. M., of Euclid No. 505, removal to Rose Hill Hall, October 29. C. C. Gardner, Grand Sword Bearer, Edina No. 291, November 8. W. M. of Hardin Lodge No. 322, removal to new hall, November 28. H. E. Reid, P. M., Pilot Knob Lodge No. 182, at Richville, De-' cember 1. .T. H. Clawson, D. D. G. M., Galt Lodge No. 423, December 6. Wm. T. Wernwag, D. D. G. M., Aullville Lodge No. 464, to Concordia, .Tanuary 2, 1918. . H. N. Martin, D. D. G. M., Hiram Lodge No. 362, December 21. J. E. Reese, D. D. G. M., Maryville No. 165 and Nodaway No. 470, February 2, 1918. W. M. of McGee Lodge No. 146, February 13. V. P. Adams, P. D. D. G. M .. Steele Lodge No. 634, February 25. Wm. A. Myers, D. D. G. M., Maplewood Lodge No. 566, February 27. Wm. Baker, D. D. G. M., Bosworth Lodge No. 597, March 6. A. J. O'Reilly, D. D. G. M., Pomegranate Lodge No. 95, June 15. J. H. Clawson, D. D. G. M., Marion Lodge No. 616, August 3. A. J. O'Reilly, D. D. G. M., Euclid Lodge No. 505, July 23.
路 1918.]
Grand Lodge of Missouri.
45
ELECTION OF. OFFICERS. Mt. Ararat Lodge No. 382,. Octobcr 27, 1917. Montgomery City Lodge No. 246, December 27. Bridgeton Lodge No. 80, December 20. LaMonte Lodge No. 574, December 10. Sikeston Lodge No. 310, December 20. Linn Creek Lodge No. 152, December 22. Knob Noster Lodge No. 245, December 21. Carterville Lodge No. 401, December 19. Nineveh Lodge No. 473, December 21. Easter Lodge No. 575, December 21. Equality Lodge No. 497, December 26. Barry Lodge No. 367, December 28. Grove Spring Lodge No. 589, January, 掳 19 18. Bois D'Arc Lodge No. 449, January 15. New .Madrid Lodge No. 429, January. Nonpareil Lodg-c No. 372, .January. Rock Prairie Lodge No. 269, January 9. Lincoln Lodge No. 138, January 9. Berlin Lodge No. 378, January 26. Quitman Lodge No. 196, January 23. ,Graham Lodge No. 289: January 31. Stoutsville Lodge No. 592, February 5. I1lmo Lodg-e No. 581, Febru~ry 10. 'Madison Lodge No. 91, February 18. Philadelphia Lodg-e No. 502, April 4. Pineville Lodge No. 108, May 20. Wellsville Lodg-e No. 194, June 22. Armstrong Lodge No. 70, July 1. Chillicothe Lodge No. 333, July 25. TO INSTALL OFFICERS. Mineral Lodge No. 471, December 31, 1917. REBALLOTS. Northeast Lodge No. 643. Rothville Lodge No. 426. Shekinah Lodg-e No. 256. Lambskin Lodge No. 4.60. Grain Valley Lodge No. 644. Cornerstone Lodge No. 323. Pyramid Lodge No. 180. Senath Lodge No. 513 (2). United Lodge No.5. Wellston Lodge No. 613. Cambridge Lodge No. 63. Meridian Lodge No.2. Farmington Lodge No. 132. Walker Lodge No. 60fi. .Jonathan Lodge No. 321. DeSoto Lodge No. 119 (2). Amsterdam Lodge No. 141. Chaffee Lodge No. 61fi. Beacon Lodge No. 3 (3).
Portageville Lodge No. 166 (3). Mt. Vernon Lodge No. 99. Webster Groves Lodge No. 84. St. Louis Lodge No. 20. Occidental Lodge No. 163. Caruthersville Lodge No. 461. West Gate Lodge No. 445. Leadwood Lodge No. 598. Keystone Lodge No. 243. Lebanon Lodge No. 77. Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 40. Hig-bee Lodge No. 527. Harmony Lodge No. 499. Fairmount Lodge No. 290. Naphtali Lodg-e No. 25 (2) . Kansas City Lodge No. 220. ,Ancient Craft Lodge No. 377. Mt. Zion Lodge No. 327. Trowel Lodge No. 440.
COURTESIES RECEIVED AND GRANTED. By direction of Grand Master Clark 299 requests have been, sent to sister Grand Jurisdictions to confer degrees for Missouri lodges, and 53 requests have been received by lodges in Missouri to confer degrees for sister Grand Jurisdictions.'
\'
46
[Sept.
Proceedings of the TRANSPORTA'rION AND HOTELS.
The committee reports that no reduction can be secured in the usual railroad fare. Circulars gIVIng hotel rates, etc., were mailed to the lodges August 20th and copies of the same may be found in the Grand Lodge. APPEALS AND GRIEVANCES. All petitions sent to this office have be~n delivered to chairman of the committee, Rt. W. Bro. Robert A. May. GRA~D
the
LODGE PROPERTY.
Liberty Loan Bonds. By direction' of Grand Master Clark five $1,000 4 per cent second Liberty Loan Bonds were purchased by the Grand Secretary in November, 1917, and deposited in the name of the Grand Lodge, A. F. & A. M. of Missouri, in safe deposit box in the Mississippi Valley Trust Company, St. Louis. Interest amounting to $100 was realized on these bonds June 1st. Real E¡state. There is also a lot in block 12, Town of Eureka, formerly belonging to Meramec Lodge No. 95 (defunct) and fully 'described in 1917 Proceedin~s; taxes thereon amounting to $3.93 were paid December 22, 1917. MASONIC HOME. Donation of $6,000 to the Masonic Home was paid by warrant No. 46 issued November ] 3, 1917; also $139.25 to cover five-sevenths of back dues collected up to June 30, 1918, by warrant No. 124, aggregating $6.139.25. . In addition to this amount I have also collected and turned over to the Masonic Home since September 10, 1917. the sum of $1,690.25 paid by various lodges in closing up the Masonic Home Improvement Fund account and $46.50 on the Hospital Fund account. . The per capita tax for 1918 to and including September 12. togoether with arrears received since .Julv 1. 1918, amounts to $129,602.25. five~sevenths of which, $92.573.03, has been turned over, at weekly intervals, to the Masonic Home. RECAPITULATION. Donation ...........................â&#x20AC;˘...................... $ Payment of Star Lodge No. 419 on Hospital Fund account Five-sevenths of back dues to June 30. 1918 . From Masonic Home Improvement Fund .
6,000.00 4fi.50 139.25 1,690.25
$
7.876.00 92,573.03
Five-sevenths of per capita tax 1918 to September 12....
Grand total paid to the Home since Sept. ]0,1917 .... $100,419.0~
1918. ]
Grand Lodge of 11'1issouri.
47
GRAND LODGE FINANCES. Receipts. Cash. balance, September 10, 1917 . Back dues, 1917, collected $ 195.00 From defunct lodges........................... 93.75 From H. N. Martin, sale stoves, lumber, Des 9.35 Moines Lodge No. 180 (defunct) . From Masonic Manuals (pocket) .............â&#x20AC;˘. 1,764.00 65.00 From Masonic Manuals (Library edition) . 424.20 From dues receipts . 41.00 From books Constitution . 60.00 From dispensations for lodges U. D. (2) . 3.00 From refund on pay roll, B. A. Thornhill . From A. J. O'Reilly, refund on expenses 1917 8.75 Grand Lodge session . 5.00 . From sale 1917 Proceed i ngs . 40.00 From charter fees (2) . 100.00 Interest on 5 ($1,000) 2d Liberty Loan Bonds .. 459.12 Interest daily balances, 12 months .
$ 44,077.78
3,268.17 47,345.95
Grand Lodge dues, 1918, up to and including September 12, 1918 , .
.129,602.25
Total receipts from September 10, 1917, to September 12, 1918 : .
$176,948.20
Disbursements. Pay roll, 1917, warra'nt No.1 $ 8,868.35 592.98 Balance on 1917 pay roll . Masonic Home of Missouri, five-sevenths back 139.25 dues (1917) . Masonic Home of Missouri, donation to . 6,000.00 Masonic Home of Missouri, five-sevenths 1918 . per capita tax . 92,573.03 Expenses of Grand Master . 1,000.00 Expenses Grand Master, trip to Conference 88.83 Grand Masters . Salary of Grand Secretary . 3,000.00 Salary of Grand Lecturer . 2,500.00 676.39 Expenses of Grand Lecturer . 200.00 Salary of Grand Treasurer . Rent of Grand Lodge offices . 1,500.00 Salary assistant to Grand Secretary . 1,200.00 840.00 Salary as.sistant to Grand Secretary . Printing, postage, stationery, and incidentals .. 500.00 765.80 Spalding Sta. Co., printing and supplies . Committee on Chartered Lodges, C. L. Alexan25.00 der . 100.00 Committee on Pay Roll, W. R. Shrodes . 51.72 Southwestern Telephone Co. (Bell) . 78.00 Kinloch Telephone Co . 400.00 Rev. C. C. Woods, Fraternal Correspondent . Fire insurance on Grand Lodge furnishings . 5.79 Mendle Printing Company, printing Proceedings, etc. . . 2,381.20 Charity, according to report of Committee on 300.00 Charity . 23.50 City tax on Grand Lodge furnishings . Delafield & Snow, premium on bond Grand Sec50.0Q retary . Delafield & Snow, premium on bond Grand Treasurer : . 50.00 National Laundry Co. (aprons) . 16.42 Becktold Publishing Co., binding Manuals . 884.16 Expenses 1917 Grand Lodge session . 421.55
48
[Sept.
Proceedings of¡ the
Past Grand Master's jewel (Edw. Higbee) . 100.00 Painting portrait, G:r:and Master Higbee . 50.00 Restoring and retouching portraits Past Grand Masters . 125.00 H. A. Krueger, Grand Tiler . 150.00 Lee M. Edgar, reporting 1917 Proceedings and transcript thereof . 70.00 H. Clay Perkins, Auditor . 50.00 W. 1. Mills, stenographer Appeals & Grievance 105.25 Committee . W. E. Robinson, expense case of Rochester Lodge No. 248 (defunct) . 13.00 R. R. Wade, expense, case of Park Lodge 617. 30.00 A. H. Blocker, expense, case of Park Lodg-e 617 15.00 Pantagraph Ptg. Co., K. City, souvenir copies Bi-Centennial Memorial : . 15.00 Teachenor-Bamberger Eng. Co., K. City, engraved memorial to Grand Lodge of Eng~ 122.05 land . 13.00 R. J. Mills, expense, trial in Itaska Lodge 420. J. B. Schmidt, Grand Lodg-e signs . 45.50 Thad B. Landon, trip K. C. to St. L. Mas. Temple Com. . . 17.50 J. L. Heckenlively, 3 trips Springfield to St. L. Mas. Temple Com . 54.50 Kennard Carpet Co., shades and rug Grand 78.19 Lodge offices . Five $1,000 4 per cent 2nd Liberty Loan Bonds. (1917) Nos. 574361-574365 (inclusive) . 5,000.00 Fletcher Typewriter Co., repairs . 7.00 3.93 H. N. Lloyd, taxes on lot at Eureka, Mo . Safe deposit box, Miss. Valley Trust Co . 5.00 300.00 International Bd. Relief U. S. and Canada . Globe- Wernicke Co., 4 units for card index 295.95 system . Cash balance in bank Sept. 12, 1918
.
131,897.84
$
45,O~0.36
MASONIC. HOSPITAL FUND. A small balance remains unpaid on the Masonic Hospital Fund. The account stands as follows: Subscribed. Paid. Total, Sept. 10, 1917 $102,975.32 $102,722.82 46.50 Oct. 21, 1917, Star Lodge 419 . Grand total, Sept. 12, 1918
$102,975.32
$102,769.32
MASONIC HOME IMPROVEMENT FUND. During the year I have received the sum of $1,690.25 from thirty-seven lodges, as shown below. This closes the account: No. 59. 64. 67. 115. 132. 141.
157. 159. 175. 181. 203. 233. *255.
Paid. Lodge Centralia $ 87.50 55.00 Monroe . 21.50 Rocheport . Laddonia . 118.00 61.00 Farmington . 34.00 Amsterdam . North Star . 33.00 Green City . 15.50 25.75 Newton . Novelty . 31.00 42.00 Brumley . 69.50 Bucklin . 15.50 Alton â&#x20AC;˘.......................
Grand Lodge of
1918.] 283. 285. 286. 296. 308. 309. 319. 321. 351. 352. 355. 377. 403. 405. 419. 433. 440. 442. 466. 493. 521. 546. 587. 603.
49
~1issouri.
Stockton . Earl . Urich . Sparta . Parrott . King Hiram . Paulville . Jonathan . Mosaic . Friend . Adelphi . Ancient Craft . Lowry City . Everton . Star . Mack's Creel{ . Trowel .............•......... Burlington . Southwest . Vernon . Lockwood . Prairie Hill ,. Branson . IVlorehouse ' . Total
43.00 31.50 30.50 44.00 43.50 48.00 100.50 63.00 49.50 14.00 30.50 125.00 27.50 22.50 15.00 84.00 98.50 72.50 40.00 10.50 47.50 6.50 23.50 10.00 $1,690.25
·Paid for Many Springs Lodge No. 320, which consolidated with Lodge No. 255. RECA PITULATION. Total from miscellaneous sources (shown in 1917) $ 7,311.00 Total from interest on daily ·balances.................... 12.63 Total from Chartered Lodges to Sept. 10, 1917 117,501.20 Total from Chartered Lodges Sept. 10, 1917, to Sept. 12, 1918 1,690.25 Grand total Sept. 12, 1918 Fraternally submitted,
$126,515.08
50
Procf!edings of the
[Sept.
REPORT OF THE GRAND TREASURER. M. W. Bro. vVm. A. Hall, Grand Treasurer, presented his report, which was adopted as follows, together with report of Auditor: To the M. W. Grand Lodge, A. F. & 4. M. of Missouri: Dear Brethren: Herewith I submit my report as Grand Treasurer, together with my books and youchers. The following is a lis't of receipts and disbursements, in detail, since my last report: . RECEIPTS. 1917 Sept. 22 '" 24 Oct. 18 NoY'. Dec.
Balance on hand Sept. 10 Rec~!Yed f;.om Grand Sec;,etary
2~
14 28 11 18 28
1918 Jan. 14 " 16 24 Feb. 7 18 Mch. 5 15 30
AJ?,ril 2~
M~y
1 15 24 June 6 17
28 1
2 3 5 6 8 9 10 11 12 13 15 15 16 17
Interest on de~?sits
Received
from
Grand
$ 44,077.78 76.00 . 124.75 60.55 87.45 81.10 58.60 91.10 61.05 70.30 87.40
101.65 109.45 83.55 108.40 98.75 137.25 137.70 110.90 57.05 78.50 79.50 116.40 77.90 182.60 93.05 72.10 ::::::::::::::::: 54.57 43.47 30.16 26.84 25.81 22.05 22.92 20.46 Sec~路,etary . 65.85 , ],935.50 3,085.25 1,799.00 2,870.00 1,699.25 1,117.25 2,759.75 2,417.75 7,152.00 5,583.25 5,297.25 71.40 5,790.75 3,687.25 5,545.75
51
Grand Lo'dge of Missouri.
1918. ] 18 19 20 22 23 24 25 26 27 29 30 31 1 2
'"
3 7
10 12 ]7
24 31 5 9
Interest ?,ll de~?sits
: : : : : : : :: : : : : : : : :
Rec~,ived f;.om G~,and" s~~f,~t~;y:::::::: :.: Interest on deposits
:::::::
:::::::::::::::::
6,505.50 3,233.00 3,517.50 7,396.00 4,9] 7.75 5,680.75 5,259.75 5,668.25 2,982.7fi 8,385.00 9,220.70 6,332.50 4,252.50 3,364.25 420.00 74.25 383.25 112.60 368.50 418.50 537.75 14.78 36.62 114.00 18.05 89.34
$176,948.20
DISBURSEMENTS. 'Varrant 1917 No. Sept. 20 $ 1 Wm. A. Hall, Grand 'l'reasurer, pay roll 2 Albert Meyer, portrait G. M . " 26路 . 3 L. M. Edgar, reporting Proceedings Chairman Committee 4 C. L.' Alexander, Chartered Lodges . . 5 Barr Jewelry Co., jewel, G. M 6 W. R. Shrodes, Chairman Committee, pay roll ' , . . 7 H. Clay Perkins, Auditor 8 W. I. Mills, stenographer A. & G. Com . 9 W. E. Robinson, expense, case Rochester Lodg-e No. 248 . :.. 27 10 Monticello Lodge No. 58, charity . 11 Craft Lodge No. 287, charity . 12 Portland Lodge No. 242, charity ]3 A. S. Houston, charity for Mrs. K. M. Deane . 14 R. R. Wade, taking testimony in Park Lodge case : . 15 A. H. Blocker, ,expense, Park Lodge case .. . 16 Rent of Grand Lodge offices 17 .John R. Parson, Grand Secretary, Sept. .. ]8 28 J. R. McLachlan, Grand Lecturer, Sept . 19 Assistant to Grand Secretary, Sept. . 20 Assistant to Grand Secretary, Sept. . . 21 H. A. Krueg-er, Grand Tiler 22 A. J. O'Reilly, expenses 1917 session of the Grand Lodge . 23 Spalding Sta. Co., printing-, etc . 24 Pantagraph Ptg. Co.. K. City, printing England memorial . 25 Teachenor-Bamberger Eng. Co., Bi-Centenary memorial . 26 R. J. Mills. attendance at trial Itaska Lodge No. 420 . Oct.. . 27 J. B. Schmidt, signs for Grand Lodge
8,868.35 50.00 70.00 25.00 100.00 100.00 50.00 105.25 13.00 50.00 100.00 50.00 100.00 ,30.00 15.00 125.00 250.00 208.33 100.00 70.00 150.00 421.55 57.25 15.00 122.05 13.00 45.50
Proceedings of the 28
1918 Jan. 9
68 69 70
C. C. VVoods, Fraternal Correspondent .... Thad B. Landon, trip to St. L. on Masonic Temple Com . J. L. Heckenlively, three trips, on Masonic Temple Com . Southwestern Tel. Co . Masonic Relief Ass'n U. S. and Can . Wm. A. Hall, Grand Treasurer, balance on pay roll . Edmond Koehl. Collector city taxes ' . Spalding Sta. Co.. printing, etc . Miss. Valley Tr. Co., Liberty Bonds . Rent Grand Lodg'e offices, October . J. R. McLachlan. Grand 路Lecturer, October John R. Parson, Grand Secretary, October. Assist.ant to Grand Secretary, October . Assistant to Grand Secretary, October . J. Kennard & Sons Carpet Co., furnishings for Grand Lodg-e offices . Southwestern Tel. Co . John R. Parson, printing, postage, stationery, etc . J. R. McLachlan, expenses Grand Lodge, October . M8sonic Home, donation , . "Tm. A. Clark. Grand Master. expenses . Delafield 8. Snow. premium on bonds Gr8.nd Secretary and Grand Treasurer. John H Parson. printing, postage. 'statlonerv. etc . DelafiP1d & Snow, insurance Grand Lodge offices . Pent G-rllnd Lodg-e offices. Novemher . John R. Parson, Grand Secretary, November . J. R. McLachlan, Grand Lecturer, November . A ssistant to G-rand Secretary, Novemher. Assistant to Grand Secretary. November. Rnaldine:- Sta. Co., nrlntine:-. et~ . Becktold Ptg. & Book Mfg. Co., binding l\fanuals . .T. H. McLRchll'n. e:ll'nense G. L., November Southwest.ern Tel. Co . Mendlf> Printing- Cn., printing Proceedings I'.nd !'lunnlement. . . Mendlf> Printing- Co.. nhotog-ranhinl?; and nrinting- Bl-Centf>n8rV sOllvenir. . Snaldlna: Sta. Co.. printing, etc . H. N. Llovd. tax on lot at Eureka . Miss. Valley Tr. Co., safe deposit box . Rent Grand. Lodge offices, December . .Tohn R. Parson. Grand Sec.. December . .T. R. McT.,achlan, Grand Lee.. December .. Wm. A. Hall, Grand Treasurer . Assistant to Grand Secretary, December .. Assistant to Grand Secretary, December ..
71
10 15
72
.r.
2
29
39 4
22
1
34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42
2
43 44
路3
45
13
26 27 30 31
Nov.
31 32 33
14
46 47 48
16
49
24
50
?7
51
28
52
53 30
54
5!'i 56 Dec.
57 I'R 1'9
15路
60 61
20
62
??
Ii~
27
64
28
'31
19 28 30
Feb.
6 7 11
fHi
66 117
73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81
82
R. McLachlan. expense G. 1..., December Southwest.ern Tel. Co . Kinloch Tel. Co . Spalding Sta. Co., printing, etc . Rent Grand Lodge offices, January . John R. Parson, Grand Sec., January . J. R. McLachlan, Grand Lecturer . Assistant to Grand Secretary . Assistant to Grand Secretary . J. R. McLachlan, expense, G. Lec., Jan . Southwestern Tel. Co . John R, Parson, printing, postage, etc .
[Sept. 100.00 17.50 54.50 6.32 300.00 592.98 23.50 54.54 5,000.00 125.00 208.33 250.00 100.00 70.00 n.19
6.75 100.00 72.06 6,000.00 250.00 100.00 100.00 5.79 125.00 250.00 20R.~~
100.00 70.00 48.25 3?0.OO 81.74 3.75
2,291.20 !lO.OO
46.4!'i ~.!I~
5.00 125.00 2!'i0.00 208.33 100.00 100.00 70.00 61.08 3.80 19.50 34.75 125.00 250.00 208.33 100.00 70.00 77.00
4.50 掳50.00
Grand Lodge of Missouri.
1918. ] 13 15
83 84
26 27
85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92
28
Mch. 6 7
93
24 25 26 30
94 95 96 97 98 9.9 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 109
3
111 112
3 16
114
8 16 26 28 30
April 5 17
110 May
20 21 23 25 31
.Tune
4
14 21
July
26 6 8 11
113 115 116
117 118 119 120 121 122 123 124 125 126 127 128 129 130 131 132 133 134 135 136
12
137
13
138 139 140 141 142 143 144 145 146
20 22
24 27 31
Spalding Sta. Co., printing, etc ..... , ..... Fletchcr Typewriting Co., repairing typewriter . Rent Grand Lodge offices, .February . John R. Parson, Grand Sec., February . J. R. McLachlan, Grand Lee., February .. Assistant to Grand Secretary, February•... Assistant to Grand Secretary, February . Kinloch Tel. Co., telephone to Mch. 31 . Southwestern Tel. Co . J. R. McLachlan, expenses, February . Albert Meyer, restoring portraits of Grand Lodge of~icers . Spalding Sta. Co., printing . Wm. A. Clark, expenses G. M . Rent Grand Lodge offices . John R. Parson, Grand Sec., March . .1.' R. McLachlan, Grand Lecturer, March .. Assistant to Grand Secretary, March . Assistant to Grand Secretary, March . Southwestern Tel. Co., March : . J. R. McLachlan, expenses Grand Lee . John R. Parson, postage, etc . C. C. Woods, Fraternal Correspondent . Spalding Sta. Co., printing, etc . J. R. McLachlan, Grand Lecturer, April . Rent Grand Lodge offices . .r. R. McLachlan, expenses April . John R. Parson, Grand Secretary, April . Assistant to Grand Secretary, April . Assistant to Grand Secretary, April . Wm. A. Clark, expenses G. M . Southwestern Tel. Co . ·Wm. A. Clark, G. M., expense trip to New York, G. M.'s conference . Spalding Sta. Co., printing, etc . .Tohn R. Parson. postage, etc . Rent Grand Lodge offices, May : . John R. Parson, Grand Secretary, May . Assistant to Grand Secretary, May . Assistant to Grand Secretary, May . J. R. McLachlan, Grand Lecturer, May . Southwestern Tel. Co., . J. R. McLachlan, expenses G. Lee., May .. V. O. Saunders, Secretary Masonic Home, bal. 1917 per capita tax . Kinloch Tel. Co. to June 30, 1918 . Spalding Sta. Co .• printing, etc . Rent of Grand Lodge offices, June . John R. Parson, Grand Secretary, .June . Assistant to Grand Secretary, June . Assistant to Grand Secretary, June . John R. Parson, postage, etc . .J. R. McLachlan, Gr'and Lecturer, June . J. R. McLachlan, expense G. Lee., June . Masonic Home, five-sevenths per capita .. Southwestern Tel. Co . Spalding Sta. Co., printing, etc . Becktold Ptg. & Book Mfg. Co., binding Manuals . Masonic Home, five-sevenths per capita .. C. C. Woods, Fraternal Correspond en t. ... Masonic Home, five-sevenths per capita .. . W. A. Hall, Grand Treasurer . Wm. A. Clark, expenses Grand Master . . C. C. Woods, Fraternal Correspondent Rent Grand Lodge offices, July . Masonic Home, five-sevenths per capita .. J. R. McLachlan, Grand Lecturer, July ...
S3 115.29 7.00 125.00 250.00 208.33 100.00 70.00 19.50 3.95 87.08 125.00 43.10 250.00 125.00 250.00 208.33 100.00 70.00 3.75 90.11 50.011 100.00 33.30 208.32 125.0(· 75.87 250.00 100.00 70.00 250.00
3.80 88.83 60.86 50.00 125.00 250.00 100.00 70.00 208.33 3.85 49.71 139.25 19.50 149.24 125.00 250.00 100.00 70.00 50.00 20111.33 81.74 8,135.00 3.75 36.50 564.16 17,376.60 100.00 20,199.82 100.00 250.00 100.00 125.00 22,789.46 208.33
Proceedings of the
54 . 147 148 149 150 Aug. _3 10 14
17 24 Sept.
31 5
151 H2 153 154 155 156 157 158 159 160 161 162 163 165 166 167
10
169
[Sept.
John R. Parson, Grand Secretary; July . 250.00 Assistant to Grand Secretary, July . 100.00 Assistant to Grand Secretary; July ' 70.00 John R. Parson, printing, postage, stationery, incidentals . 50.00 Sou thwcstern Tel. Co . 3.75 Masonic Home, five-sevenths per capita .. 22,839.25 Masonic Home, per capita . 273.75 Spalding Sta. Co., printing, etc . 57.12 263.21 Masonic Home, five-sevenths per capita .. 208.37 J. R. McLachlan, Grand Lecturer, Aug-ust. 298.93 Masonic Home, five-sevenths per capita .. Masonic Home, five-sevenths per capita .. 384.11 Rent Grand Lodgt\ offices 路 125.00 John R. Parson, Grand Secretary, August. 250.00 Assistant to Grand Secretary, August . 100.00 Assistant to Grand Secretary, August . 70.00 John R. Parson, printing, postage, inci50.00 dentals " . National Laundry Co. (aprons) . 16.42 19.50 Kinloch Tel. Co., to September 30th . Globe- "V\Ternicke Co.,' 4 units card index 295.95 system . 29.15 Spalding Sta. Co., printing, etc . $131,881.19
RECAPITULATION. Total receipts Total disbursements
$176,948.20 131,881.19
'
Balance September 12, 1918 $ 45,067.01 Warrants issued by Grand Secretary, but not cleared.... *16.65 Actual
----
balance
Warrants . . No. 164 168
:
$ 45,050.36
$ 3.75 12.90 *16.65 Fraternally submitted, WM. A. HALL. Grand Treasurer. )
ST. LOVIS UNION BANK. St. Louis, September 12th, 1918. The Grand Lodge of Ancient. Free and Accepted Masons of Missouri. Gentlemen: This is to certify that your balance on checking account as of the date September 11th is $45,067.01, according to our books. Yours very truly, . B. W.路MOSER, Vice-President.
1918.]
55
Grand Lodge of Alissouri.
REPORT OF AUDITOR.
H.' C. P:F.RKINS
Auditor and Accountant S1. Louis, September 12th, 1918. . To the M. W. "Grand Lodge A. F. & A. M. of Missouri: Gentlemen: Having been appointed Auditor of the Grand Lodge of Missouri for the year 1917-18, I have examined the book records and accounts of the Grand Secretary and Grand Treasurer and found them correct. The following report is the result of my findings: I have verified the receipts from the reports of each subordinate lodge and other sources, and have found them correctly entered in the cash book of the Grand Secreta<ry. The receipts are deposited daily in the St. Louis Union Bank to the credit of the Grand Lodge All disbursements are paid by warrants on the said bank, signed by the Grand Master, Grand Secretary and Grand Treasurer, and I have found all receipts and disbursements properly entered in the Grand Secretary's cash .book. The reports of the Grand Secretary and Grand Treasurer in detail will be found in the printed proceeding'S under the caption of "Grand Lodge Finances". The balance, $45.067.01, is on deposit to the credit of the Grand Lodge, A. F. & A. M. of the State of Missouri, at the St. Louis Union Bank. RECEIPTS. Sept. 10, 1917, balance deposited St. Louis Union Bank $ 44,245.28 Received for lodge dues and other sources 132,411.30 Received for interest September to August (inclusive).... 459.12 Total received and on hand
$177,115.70
DISBURSEM}<~NTS.
"\Varrants issued cover Nos. 1 to 169, inc $131,R97.84 Check No. 185, outstanding 1917.:............ 167.50 Sept. 12, 1918, cash book balance..... .. Checks outstandingNo. 164 Telephone Company No. 168 Masonic Home
132,065.34 $ 45,050.36
$ 3.75 12.90
16.65
Sept. 12, 1918, verified deposit 路in St. Louis Union Bank....
$ 45,067.01
Fraternally yours, H. CLAY PERKINS, Auditor.
,,'
56
Proceedings of the
[Sept.
RESOLUTION-LANE'S PRAIRIE LODGE NO. 531. W. Bro. ]. A. Cook presented the following Resolution, which on motion was adopted: Resolved, That Lane's Prairie Lodge No. 531, A. F. & A. M .. located at Lois, in Maries County, be transferred from the Fiftyeighth to the Thirty-ninth District. J. A. COOK, W. M. Lodge 531.
REPORT OF MASONIC HOME BOARD. W. 'Bro. S. E. '0/ aggoner, President of the Home Board, presented the report of the 1\1asonic H~me of ~issouri and :M. W. Bro. A. 1\1. Hough read the report of Treasurer, which were adopted and ordered printed in the Proceedings. (See Appendix.) .
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON GRAND MAS,TER'S ADDRESS. ]\i1. \tv. Bro. R. R. I~reeger presented and read the report of the Committee on Grand Master's Address, which on motion was adopted. as follows: ~t. Louis, September 17, 1918. To the Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons in the State of Missouri. Brethren: The committee to which was referred the peculiarly Masonic as well as Patriotic Address of our Most Worshipful Grand Master, fraternally submits the following: We approve the action of the Grand Master in路 arresting the Charter. of Niangua Lodge No. 529 at Niangua, Missouri. All that portion of the Grand Master's Address concerning the relations of the Masonic Fraternity of the State of Missouri with that of France, we respectfully reeommend be referred to the Committee on Recognition of Foreign Grand Lodges, as well' as that portion relating to the United Grand Lodge of England. The recommendations of the Grand Master concerning the creation of the War Board and the appropriation of $5,000.00 to be held subject to the work that it may be considered necessary to be undertaken by this Grand Jur!sdiction be referred to a Spedal Committee of five, such committee to report its conclusions to this Communication of the Grand Lodge.
1918. ]
Cra1'ld Lodge of lvlissouri.
57
That portion of the Address under the title of "Trial Code" be refen-ed to a Special Committee of five, appointed by the incoming' Grand Master with instructions to report to the next annual Communication. / That all the decisions of the Grand Master be referred to the Committee on Jurisprudence. ,_ This committee notes with much pleasure and satisfaction the Gra.nd Master's compliments to the Masonic Home Board, on its efficient and careful administration of the affairs of our Home, of which we are all so proud. Also, we compliment him on his untiring' efforts in the interests of this Home, resulting in his being enabled to report that all contributions to the Home Improvement Funds have been paid. The Masonic Fraternity in Missouri at this troublesome time when the souls of men are being tried and the world seems to have lost its harmony, can well afford to congratulate itself on having had as its guiding spirit during the year just closing one who appears to have been imbued with the true spirit of Freemasonry, and followed its tenets in all his acts and deeds. He has been devoted and faithful. This indicates that those who have been subjected to the crucial test of the exigencies of the time when, influenced by the exalted principles of the Fraternity, may be trusted with the confidence and belief that all will terminate for the good of Humanity. We commend the Grand Master for his untiring energy and devotion to the interests not only of the Fraternity, but the civilization of the world, and think his administration merits the approbation no~ only of this committee but the entire Fraternity of the State. Respectfully submitted, ALEXANDER M. DOCKERY, CHARLES C.' WOODS, HOBERT F. STEVENSON, JAMES W. BOYD, JOHN R. PARSON, ARTHUR M. HOUGH, DORSEY 'A. JAMISON, CORON A H. BRIGGS,. WILLIAM F. KUHN, ALGERNON S. HOUSTON, JOHN T. SHORT, R. R. KRE:EGEH.. Wl\I. A. HALL. CLAY C. BIGGER, ARCH A. JOHNSON, JACOB LAMPERT, VAN FREMONT BOOR, TOLMAN W. COTTON, FRANK R. JESSE, EDWARD HIGBEE.
58
Proceedings of the
[Sept.
RESOLUTION-IN RE MASONIC HEADQUARTERS ABROAD. R. VV. Bro. O. A. Lucas presented the following resolution regarding establishing, a general lVlasonic headquarters i.n France, appropriating money and appointment of a Special Overseas War Committee of five: Moved and carried, that same be referred to Special War Committee. Whereas, There is a large number of Freemasons belonging to the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Missouri, who are now abroad serving the colors in the forces of the United States, and whose care and comfort is a particular duty of this Grand Lodge, especially in a Masonic, Fraternal and Social sense, and
Whe~eas, In order that these Brothers of ours should be given this Fraternal and Social service, there should be established a General Masonic Headquarters of the Grand Lodge of Missouri abroad and that such headquarters should be manned by workers fro,m this juriSdiction, therefore Be It Resolved, That this Grand Lod'ge undertake to establish a l\lasonic Headquarters in France and other foreign countries, as the need may appear, and that for such purpose there be appropriated the sum of $10.000 in cash by this Grand Lodge and that the Master Masons of Missouri be assessed $1.00 per capita per ami urn, said assessments to be eollected by the various Lodges in this jurisdiction, and the sum so collected be immediately remitted to the Grand Secretary and which fund shall be at the disposal of the, committee appointed to carry out the aims and puriwses of this resolution, and Be It Further Resolved, That the incomin'g Grand Master appoint a committee to be known as the Missouri Freemasons' Fraternal and Social Service Overseas Committee; which committee shall consist of five members and which shall be authorized and empowered to do all things necessary to carry into effect the spirit and purposes of this resolution, and Be It Further Resolved, That the said committee shall ask the co-operation in France of the National Independent and Regular Grand Lodge of France and the French Colonies. Be It Further Resolved, That the committee herein be appointed without delay, and comm~nce its work immediately thereafter. O. A. LUCAS, G. S. McLANAHAN, WM. F. KUHN, PERCY A. BUDD.
1918. ]
Grand Lodge of Missouri.
59
REPORT OF "THE MISSOVRI FREEMASON" TABULATION OF MISSOURI MASONS路 IN THE NATIONAL SERVICE. The Grand Secretary read the following report of "1\1issouri Freemason" as to the number of Missouri Freemasons and their sons serving under the National Colors: Adopted. St. Louis, Mo., September 17, 1918. To the M. W. Grand Lodge, A. F. &. A. M. of Missouri. Brethren: The "MISSOURI FREEMASON" begs leave to report that it has striven to carry out the instructions received from the Grand Lodge at its last session regarding the tabulating of the names, etc., of the Brethren and their sons who, from the Grand Jurisdiction of Missouri, are serving their Country under the colors. At this date 412 of the Lodges of the St.ate have made reports, 232 having failed' thus far to send their lists. From the 412 Lodges that have reported we find that there are 3020 Brethren of the Craft in the U. S. Service, and 1150 sons of Masons likewise engaged. We venture to express the hope that the Grand Lodge will make further request upon those Lodges which have thus far failed to respond to this duty, that Missouri may have as complete a list as is possible, so that future generations may know who of the Brotherhood have been engaged in their Coyntry's service. Respectfully
submitted,
"MISSOURI FRgEMASON," C. R. Snider.
RESOLUTION-IN RE ADOPTION OF FIFTY FATHERLESS CHILDREN OF FRANCE. 1\1. VV. Bro. R. R. Kreeger offered and read the following resolution as to adoption by this Grand Lodge of fifty father-I less children of France for one year and appropriating money therefor, and the same was referred to the Special War Committee pr.ovided for in report of Committee on Grand Master's Address: Whereas, Today we hear the voice of the noble, valiant and magnanimous Lafayette coming to us from the world of light and love,
60
Proceedings of the
[Sept.
calling our attention to the plaintive cry of the destitute, hungry ami helpless orphans of the land he loved. In answer to this call and as an indication of the great admiratio~ the members of this Grand Lodge have for the people of France, our noble ally in the struggle for the freedom .and liberty of humanity in which we are now engaged, and in order to show, in an humble and modest manner, our appreciation of her ,friendship for our forefathers and this beloved country of ours at' time when they were in dire distress, which resulted in their bein'g' recognized by the nations of the world 'as a free and independent people, be it ) g~ntly
a
Resolved, That the Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons in .the State of Missouri, U. S. A., adopt fifty fatherless children of France for a period of one year from the first day of October, 1918, and that the sum of $1,825,00 is hereby appropriated and set aside for the support of such children during that period, this contribution to be made in four equal installments-on the first days of October, 1918, and January, April and July, 1919. R. R. KREEGER, D. IVr. WILSON, DORSEY A. JAMISON, JAMES W. BOYD, WM. F. KUHN.
((Flag of the free hearfs hope and home! By angel hands to valor given; Thy stars have lit the welkin dome) And all thv hues were born in heaven. Forever ftoaF that standard sheet! Where breathes the foe but falls before us) T/f7 ith Freedom s soil beneath our feet) And Freed01n s banner streaming ojer us?JJ J
J
1918. ]
Grand Lodge of Missouri.
61
REPORT OF GRAND LECTURER. R. W. Bro. J. R. McLachlan pres~nted and read his report as Grand Lecturer for the past' year, which on motion was adopted as follows: Kahoka, Mo., September 17, 1918. To the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Missouri. :Brethren: During the past year I visited and held Lodges of Instruction at the following places: Wentzville, Pacific, Grays Summit, McKittrick, Rocheport, Macon, Chillicothe, Hamilton, Oregon, Maitland, Hopkins, Maryville, Sheridan, Darlington, Cainesville, Bethany, Trenton, Galt, Maysville, Gower, Hardin, Clifton Hill, Columbia, Lancaster, Clarksville, Troy, St, Louis, Jonesburg, Mexico, Brunswick, Excelsior Springs, Camden Point, Clarence, Palmyra, Lexington, Sweet Springs, Clinton, Rich Hill, Appleton City, Humansville, Stockton, Walnut Grove, Cassville, Monett, Galena, ~Anderson, Joplin, Carthage, Springfield, Mountain Grove, West Plains, Lebanon, Competition, Dixon, Newburg, Fulton, Be'lton, Sedalia, Nevada, Eldorado Springs, Bonne Terre, Desloge, Farmington, St. Joseph, Cameron, Breckenridge, Fayette, Moberly, Center, Eldon, Cape Girardeau, Illmo, Charleston, Caruthersville, and Steele. At many of the above ,places I was ably assisted by the District Lecturer, and at several of them we were honored by the presence of Most Worshipful Brother Clark, our Grand Master, who was always greeted and welcomed by a number of loyal and enthusiastic Freemasons. Beside the above named places other visitations were made tq Lodges, on ordinary and extraordinary occasions. A visitation to the Lodge of Instruction, at St. Louis, is worthy of note, as it was the coldest day of the year. Notwithstanding this fact, there were forty-two of the路 faithful present on that occasion and a pleasant and, we hope, a profitable evening was spent. From that time on through the cold weather, there was no. cessation of work. In looking back, I marvel at the attendance and zeal of the brethren, and wonder how and why it was' accomplished. There is scarcely a Lodge but what has sent one or more of its members to battle for the cause of humanity. The service flags, in almost' every Lodge, bear witness to the remembrance of the absent ones, and give, evidence of their loyalty to our Government. The recent calls to various cantonments have taken others, and the last registration will embrace other and older men. Those whq have gone and they who are yet to go have, many of them, been useful and active workers in their respective Lodges, and the loss to these Lodges is keenly felt. Greater efforts will have to be put forth to maintain the standard they have' established. The Lodges are awake to this fact, as I have recently received several requests for early visitations, which it is my intention to speedily comply with. I have no doubt but what' the District Lecturers will have
62
Proceedings of the
[Sept.
frequent c~ll!s.. ~ an~~1}o.w~~g :th~i,r. ,~e:~l, 't "ani~ ~JlI,:.e :t,h~y, will meet with a speedy response, A n tim ber of' my you'ng' friends and .brethren who ha've" gone to the:dlffer,ent t~aining camps have written me some ,interesting, letters and cards, which tokens of remembrance were truly appreciated, as I value their respect and friendship, and am 'interested in their career. One brother wrote me that the training I had given him had prov'ed of value in the 'training he was receiving. Were it not for the fact that I was born too soon,' I might 'find work for my Country in a like capacity. In but very of the Lodges of which I have any knowledge, has anything bccurted' to mar their: peace and harmony,: The differences' existihg in' these will soon be adjusted, when the brethren awaken 'to the fact that it 'is "good and pleasant to dwell- together inunity."- , ;, , Oile of my' Dlstrict';Lec'turers, in 'comtnenting on the vohim:e of work done by the different Lodges in his Distr'icl, says that two evils exist, Which are hard t()overcom~.' First, the prescribed rules' and reinilations are not adhered to; and second, too muCh practicing on the' candidates, I am not advised wherein the rules and regulations are violat'ed, and would suggest 'that' ,the 'District Deputy' Grand Mast~r would be the proper "official for the guidance of the brethren. IIi 'the second place, I inferlhat those who were participating in the work, were not prepa~ed for their particular parts. At, a time like ,this, when many of our bright working b'rethren are called to duty, we can: readily overlook, if' not. excuse, such offense. But under' ordinary ci'rcumstances, it 'should not be tolerated. "Masonry is not only' a science; and an art of definite proportions and prinCiples, but must be exact in exemplification and expression. How can MaSonry be appreciated and understood unless the learner acquires, by' study, its ftill meaning. Mumbling over imperfectly taught ,lessons, Without realizing the deep moral significance of our .ritualistic teacllings, 'fails in its purpose." Such 'has always been my conception of Masonry' a,nd, in my instructionj I have endeavored to impress the same thought upon my brethren,' and I am persuaded that such teaching has not been in vain. The reports of the' Subordinate Lodges to the Grand Secretary show the greatest incre'ase in membership ever experienced by this Grand 'Lodge. I had ample opportunity of observing the activity of' the 'various Lodges in the State, and the result is, therefore, no great surprise to me. This activity was not confined, to any particula:rsection,. but 'was general throughout' the State. I A few Lodges, here' and there, did not share in this prosperity. All the city Lodges were overworked; Of the District .. Lect'urers who have supported me during the year, 1 cannot find 'words' to express my grateful acknowledgment of ,'their services,' Their companionship is, truly, a treasure to路 me, and>thcir interest and ze'al iIi Masonic work cannot be overestimated', While many of them fell short of their usual Visitations, ,their reasons for" this apparent failure are' perfectly satisfactory; All 'of them 'are respected, citizens in their respective communities,' and
1~18.]
63
Grand Lodge of Missouri.
many of ·them are professional men: lawyers, doctors" bankers, etc., and,some ofthem devoted almost their entire, time 'to the various war activities, doing their bit to sustain pur brave boys who are fightinpfor t'he principles for which our, institution stands. The, work th'ey have ac~omplished can be se,en by a perusal of the fO,llowing ab· stracts of their reports to me: . ' Brother P.O. Sansberry, of the First. District, yisited few of the Lodges of his district and found time to ,assist a number of the officers in the discharge of their duties. Sickness prevented much activity: on his part. He reports the Lodges fairly active and the rrwst of them. doing good worl~. ' . '
a.
Brother, Charles C. Gardner, of the ,Secpnd District" visited every, Lodge in the District ,.but one, and held Lodge of Instruction at Colony. He attended every meeting of the two Lodges at Kirksville and~ drilled, the officers either before or after the meetings, when needed, and spent many hours instructing in his office. The' Lodges at, Kirk:;;ville are thoroughly proficient, and teams frpm either Lodge can be select~d,' whose work. will. compare most favorably with any Lodge. The' work in the District' has advanced during the year: arid on'ly one Lodge, Novelty; fails to measure up, ~o the. standard. Brother John Santee, of th'e Third District, visited' and gave instructions to the following Lodges: Pollock; Winigan:, Humphreys, Putnam and Green City, with fair attendance and good interest.' Three other Lodges were 'taken care of by competent' brethren at his request. ~ reports Arcana, Lucerne and Hartford Lodges as not being 'Very active, and in need of instruction. Taking'the District in genera] the work is fairly 'well done and the result of theit labors shows' 'a very substantial increase in membersh'i,I5 'hi the District. ' '
a
Broth~r J: H. Clawson, of' the Fourth' Distric( was with' the Grand Lecturer at Trenton 'and Galt and visited' and assisted 'other' Lodges in the w·ork. He "reports most of the Lodges 'as having, done some work and 'conditions are favorable for 'more arid beUer work. As is the case everywhere, many of the brethren who' were' m'o'st active members, have answered'the: call of their' Country; leaving this work to be done by others. The interest is good and .the District _shows an increase in membership: Brother ,J. E. Reese, of the Seventh' District, reports a prosperous' year among the Lodges under his care. He visited every Lodge and held Schools of Instruction at Hopkins, Elnl.o, Graham, Ravenwood and Maryville, besides assisting in conferring degr.ees and giving private instruction. The burning of the Masonic Hall in .Tanuary at'Matyville; caused 'suspension of work there until"a suitable building could be secured. He reports the year as very pleasant for him and prosperous· to the Craft. ,Brother B." F. Watson, of the Ninth District, besides holding Lodges, of Instruction for the four city ,Lodges during the winter months, held one .with Birming Lodge )No. 150. He 'visited, quite a number of times, different Lodges and,foundthem doing good work and in general good condition. The work done will compare Very favorably with work doneelsewhere~
•
64
Proceedings' of the
[Sept.
Brother H. W. Saunders, of the Tenth District, visited and instructed several of the Lodges in his charge, assisted in conferring degrees, and repor"ts that most of the Lodges are reasonably awake and interested, and anxious to acquire a good working knowledge of the ritual. From his visitations and his correspondence with the brethren, he believes that a good fraternal feeling exists among the brethren, and that progress is being made in the work.
o
Brother Emsley C. James, of the Eleventh District, visited and gave instruction to the Lodges at Plattsburg, Lathrop, Kearney, Holt and Gower, and was present and gave assistance to. the Grand Lecturer at Cameron and Excelsior Sprin~s. He reports that the work is progressing, and while many of the bright young men of our number have bravely answered the call of our Country, others have taken up their responsibilities, and it is hoped that the standard of excellence will be maintained until the safe and victorious return of our loved ones. Brother R. A. Tharp, of the Twelfth District, visited most of the Lodges in his District, and held three Lodges of Instruction with as good attendance and interest ~s could be expected under existing circumstances. He reports the greatest increase in members for years anQ notes that quite a number of young and active workers are now in the service of our Country. Brother' E. W. Tayler, of the Thirteenth District, reports that the Lodges are unusually active and the majority of them are doing very good work. Brookfield Lodge was very pluch alive, having raised twenty-seven. 'He visited three Lodges and held three Lodges of Instruction, one at Bucklin and two at Marceline. He reports the Lodges generally as doing ':letter. Brother William L. Hamrick: of the Fourteenth District, held a School of Instruction at Hunnewell, and visited five ,other Lodges, assisting them in their work. Being a member of the' Government Legal Advisory Board interfered not only with his Masonic work, but his personal affairs as well. He reports an increase in membership in the District, and most' of the Lodges in good working condition. Brother B. E. Bigger, of the Fifteenth District, visited the Lodges at Lewiston, Ewing arid Canton, and held Lodges of Instruction at Monticello and, La Belle. All of the above Lodges are progressing I}icely, and have the work in very fair shape, showing an improvement over former years. Philadelphia Lodge, which heretofore has been almost inactive, has taken on new life, and he is hopeful for its future. The Lodges at Hannibal are maintaining their usual degree of proficiency and activity; Brother Thomas F. Hurd, of the Seventeenth District, says that' It has been the hardest year of his experience, inasmuch as the war has taken So many of the officers and active workers of the Lodges, which necessitated the brea~ing in of new ones. The customary Lodge of Instruction was held at Paris during the month of January. The spirit of' Freemasonry is fine. The Lodges are well attehded and all have been unusually active.
1918. ]
Grand Lodge of Missouri.
65
Brother T. H. Walton, of the Eighteenth District, was unable to do very much, on account of other demands on hi'S time. Hi:, only visitation was at Huntsville, where he assisted in some work. From reports received, he says the Lodges are in very good condition, and all doing soine work. Brother Horace L. Mann, of the Nineteenth District, visited the Lodges at Rothville, Musselfork, Keytesville and Triplett, assisted in conferring degrees and gave instruction. He found the members enthusiastic and eager to perfect themselves in the work. The County Association met at Rothville and Triplett, respectively, on which occasions the time was occupied in exemplifying the work, conferring degrees and social enjoyments. He commends several of the secretaries for their efforts and the brethren for their zeal. The Lodges at Keytesville and Prairie Hill both lost their Lodge build- . ings by fire. Brother William Baker, of the Twentieth District, held Lodges of Instruction at Hale, Bogard, Knoxville, and assisted the Grand Lecturer at Hardin. He observes a decided improvement in the work and the wholesome condition of the Lodges. 路Brother Henry C. Noland, of the Twenty-first District, held Lodges of Iristructioh at Farley, Camden Point and Weston, which were fairly well路 attended and considerable interest manifested. In addition to the above, several night sessions were held at Parkville for the benefit of the Craft in general. He reports much work done in a creditable manner. Brother Charles T. Kornbrodt, of the Twenty-second District, says that this has not been as strenuous a year as the preceding one. The Lodges of Instruction held during the months of January and February were well attended by the officers of the different Lodges. The brethren, in general, endeavor to do their work as near correct as possible. The officers who were regular in attendance at the Meetings of Instruction, perform their duties more creditably than those who did not do so. The amount of work done by the Lodges, and especially some that have heretofore shown little activity, is remarkable. By reason of this. he fears that a strict observance of the prescribed rules are not adhered to. and that, in some cases, too much practicing is done on the candidates. Brother W. T. Wernwa:g, of the Twenty-third District, reports that Lodges of Instruction were held in three of the six Lodges in his. charge; viz.: LeXington, Corder and Aullville, and assistance was given in conferring degrees on 'other occasions. The outlook is encouraging, regardless of the fact that the army draft is drawing heavily on promising material. He says the Lodges are in fairly good working order, and a fair degree of prosperity is enjoyed by all. . Brother J. S. 'Vilson, of the Twenty-fourth District, says that things are moving along as usual. \Vork is in fine shape. He visited all the Lodges during the year and some of 'them several times. On such occasions he assisted in degree work and rendered other necess!ry assistance. A Lodge of Instruction was held at Marshall,
66
Prqceedings of the
[Sept:;
which resulted in much good to that Lodge. :rh~ County Meetings ha~e done much t,o stimulate the' b~ethren in their endeavor for greater' profic,ien'cy. . Brother'S. L. Stites,' ,of 'the Twenty-fifth: District, says that he has not been called upon to visit a Lodge in liis District' during the year, which he attributes to general w;ir conditio,ns and ,the taking away of :r;nany of, ou~ you,ng 'an:d actiye men. 'Of the five Lodges which' he has' visited, 'perhaps two or' three do fair work. '.rhe other's he know~ nothing ~bout.' . ' Brother S. P. Cunningham, of: the Twenty-seventh District, held Lodges of ' Instruction'at Mexico, Central, 'Vandalia, Shamrock, Williamsburg, 'Mokane and Bloomfield, and reports that each "and every one of them is doing -good' work, He has kept' himself in readiness' to iilstnlct' the other ,Lodges, b11t was tiot given' the opportunity., He has given much of his time in personal, private work;: and rendered assistance in degree W'0rkon different occasions. . Br'other John' E.' Reeds, of the Twenty~,ei,ghthnistrict,'says that on account, of the many;'war activities in which he 'was engaged, he has done but little Masonic work. He, howe~e'r, visited several of the Lodges, some of them . two or three times, assisted them in conferring 'degrees,. and also ,instructing, when, need;ed. A Lodge of, Instruction was held, at Montgomery and one at Jonesburg, under the direct'ion of the Grand Lecture~, which were well attended and mucl:l good accomplished. 'rhe Lodges have been more than ordinarily active, and fairly good work is being done. Brother" E. A. ~luesmeier, of the Thirtieth District, visited' all the Lodges, assisted, ip degree, work at va路rious times, ;instructed them in the ritual, and such other duties as ,appeared to be proPer., A new Lodge was set to work under, very favora'ble conditions. The ,work is generally. Very, creditably.. done. Brother A. T. Dumm, of the Thirty-first District,'路says. 'that on acco'unt of the demands made upon his :time 'by' the various 'activities of the war, he has not been able to visit, offieially,' as many of the Lodges as he otherwise 'would have done. He reports,however, that with' one 'or two possible exceptions, the Loogesare doing', fairly' good work, though many of them have suffered the' loss o'f the brightest of their young,' men, Who have 'gone ,to war. The" brethren are showing, a, desire and determina~ioll' to, keep their Lodges 'On, the upward ,trend, nothwithstanding the ,inroads of,the war. '.rhe work 路is being dO,newith as much .accuracyas can ,be, expected under existing ,conditions, and the reports will, show ,a healthy growth in membership. Brother' H. A. Breuer; of, the Thirty-second -District, reports, as ' follows: "On account of Diberty I.:oarls;, Red, Cross, and oth-er war, activities, have been unable to officially visit the Lodges of my District, but hav.e . met with a number' of the Lodges during the year, and fiind a good" substantial increase in membership and a fair degree o.f proficien'cy among, t~e Craft, notwithstanq.ing the fact. that a number of the l>est ,workers have been called to: the. Colors. It seems that the grea;t ~o!ld Wa~ has r,enewedtp.e e,nthu-
1918.]
Grand Lodge', of 1I.1issouri.'
:67
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slasm, not only amon'g Freemasons, but 6fthe world,for the one gre'a.t principle for which our .Frat(;rnity stands'--"The' Father,hood of God and the Brotherhood of Man.", BI;other Max A. vVittman,of the Thirty-third District; reports as 'follows: "The l)3;Ht year of the Thirty-third District has' had its usual activities in the acquirements of the ritual and the prop'er rendition of it by the ,officers' of our·. thirty-seven Lodges,. and in additio.n,' one Lodge, U. D. (Apollo). The weekly, meetings of our Lodges of Instruction, ,.dur,ing the nine-months', period in which they are held, were well attended by ,offlcers of Lodges and members as well., Thirty-three meetings, with a total attendance of 3272, or approximately one hundred per meeting', of which thirty-three were officers and sixty-seven were members. The .Lodges of this Dis,trict are indebted to the brethren who ,acted as assistant instructors ---':"alwa)'s willingly-and'through whose kind efforts 'considerable progress was m~l.de throughout the' year. An" evening's'visit to our sc'hoOl by our Gra~d LeCturer, Brb. .T.R. McLachlan, was greatly appreciated and is n'oteworthy because the temperature at this time recorded seventeen degrees below zero.' (Forly-two members attended this sesSion:)' As a w'hole, our y'ear for instruction to the "Craft" Was oe~eficial to those who s6ug'ht ritualistic improvement, but the next year' sh~uld 'show increased zeal on' the P~l.I't of Lodge" Officers, b'ecause many ot' our "boys" are now servi.ng the '''Colors,'' and therefore increased efforts must come Willingly from those who' take 'up 'our Grand and Noble, work .. -Brother R. B. ,Campbell,of the Thirty-fifth District, has visited an ·of the Lodg,es; save that at Foster. ·l,nstructionswer,e given at each 'one and assistance rendered in 'degree work; The, br.ethren are 'striving"to"acquire and maintain a degree of· excellence ·in their • work, and their ,improvement ·is noticeahle ·from year to year. He says this has ;b.een the· greatest" yel;lr for, Freemaso.nry s.ince his occupancy of his presentpo.sition. 'Bl-other A.M.'Harlan; 'of' tlie Thirty-sfxth"District, held L'odges . of instruction; at Chilhowee, 'Knobnoster' and Sedalia, and visited several of the other Lodges and assisted in their work'. A'District Lodge of Instruction was hcld::j.t Sedalia by the 9rand ~ecturer, whic1;l was well attended andrnuch interest manifesteq.. The; Lod:gcs are in gO,od condition .inev~ry, resp,~ct, ,and are do.ing- verJ:' cre<iitable ,work. Brother, H. W.o Fristoe, of the, Thirty-,seventh District, says ;that he, has taken. 'pains to help, the Lodges most ,in :need of assistance, and that at present they ar.e.:in' better, condition ,to help themselv,es. Some. of .the. Lodges maintai,n,the usual ;jnterest, .:While, othe~s; owing to the .absence, of many of our bright young men who have.,answered the call to ,duty, and othel's whose, time. is taken by"the various activ.ities incident to the war;' the work is· somewhat. r,etarded. Brother H. T. Wright,of ·the Thirty-eighth District', was with the Grand Lecturer ,a.t Competition and Laclede in. the Lodges of Instruction held in that District.'~This District Is ,composed of many Lodg'cs that arc widely separated., In the most of them, there are brethren who are zealous in the discharge of their Mason,;ic duties. 0
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68
Proceedings of the
[Sept.
Brother Charles E. Pyle, of the Fortieth District, visited and held Lodges of Instruction in every Lodge. in his District, and reports better attendance and greater interest than ever before. All of the Lodges have been unusually busy, which has stimulated their efforts and, 'as a result, there is a -decided improvement in their work. Brother John M. Chamberlin, of the Forty-first District, visited eight of the Lodges and was with the Grand Lecturer at a Lodge of Instruction at Humansville. In his visitations he gave instruction to the brethren, assisted in the work, and advised them of their duties. A substantial increase in membership is noted, and although many have been called to "The Colors," there appears to be no cessation of interest among the Lodges. Erother H. H. Finley, of the Forty-second District, reports that most of the Lodg'es are in good condition, and some of them have done more and better work than heretofore. He held Lodges of I nstI"Uction at Greenfield and Dadeville, and visited the Lodge:. at Lockw.o0d and Everton, assisted in conferring degrees, and giving instructions as well. With but one exception, the Lodges are doing well in every respect. Garrett Lodge seems to be divided against itself. It is to be hoped that this difference will be speedily adjusted, and that peace and harmony will again prevail among, them. Brother W. D. Richardson, of the Forty-fourth District, visited every Lodge In his District, gave general instruction, and assisted the District Deputy Grand Master in the discharge o.f his duties. The Lodges at Carthage, Carterville, Joplin and Webb City have Leen active, and considering the fact that some of the best informed members were called to war, the work is fully up to the average. Alba and Carl Junction complain that the war and removals have left them very llttle material with which .to work. Jasper Lodge is in good condition. He gave considerable instruction to 路officers and members with good results, and reports the Lodges working harmoniously. Brother George 'V. Custer, of the Forty-fifth District, visited nine of the Lodg~s and met some of the officers of 'the other Lodges. During the first three months of the year a weekly Lodge of Instruction was held, at which representation of twelve of the fifteen Lodges were present. Good inter~st was manifested, and some progress was made by the various officers. With the exception of two Lodges, the work is creditably done, and there has been considerable to do. The Charter of Niangua Lodge has been arrested and some discord路 is found in another Lodge; otherwise peace prevails and the work is done smoothly and well. The Lodges throughout the District are loyal, many of them contributing to the extent of their ability to t1'1e various war activities. Brother Carl A. Swenson, of the Forty-sixth District, held four Lodges of Instruction and visited m9st of the others and found them doing more and better work than formerly. Great interest is taken by the Lodges in their members who are in war service, t.
1918.]
Grand Lodge of Missouri.
69
and service fiags adorn every Lodge, in testimony of their contribution to the cause of humanity. Brother J. M. Carnahan, of the Forty-seventh District, held four Lodges of Instruction and visited all but one Lodge in the District. The conditions growing out of the war have slightly decreased the a.ttendance. Notwithstanding the difficulties encountered, he notes considerable ,progress and says that the District, as a whole, is fairly proficient. Brother W. B. Massey, of the Forty-eighth District, reports the Lodges in' his District as being in good condition. Marcus and Leadwood 路lead in the number raised, and Doe Run Lodge, which has hitherto been inactive,raised seven. Lodges of Instruction were held at Bonne Terre, Desloge and Farmington, and with the officers and brethren of other Lodges whenever opportunity presented itself. Lodge work is done very well by most of the Lodges. Some do excellent work, and all are improving. As is the case in every District, some of their number are now in service, and others are doing. their part in the various war work at home. Brother G. W. Miller, of the Forty-ninth District, held five Lodges of Instruction during the year. Some Lodges are doing good work and others are at a standstill. He gave considerable private instruction and assisted in conferring- degrees. There has been some busy times among all of the Lodges, and many of our young men are now "Over there" in the discharge of their duty. Brother Virgil P. Adams, of the Fifty-first District, visited ten of the fifteen 'Lodges, and found them doing fairly ,good work. He assisted in conferring degrees" and gave much private instruction. He responded to every call, and says he derived much pleasure from his visitations, as the brethren have ever been most kind and cour'teous. Brother E. C. White, of the Fifty-second District, says that outside of his own Lodge, he visited but one other, at路 Naylor. No Lodge invited him, and being busy in war activities, he did not force' himself upon them, thinking that if needed or an unusual occasion arose, he would be called. The Lodges reporting seem to be in good condition, and considerable work has been done. Brother H. A. Stearns, of the Fifty-third District, answered all calls for his service, held four Lodges of lnstruction. and was present and assisted the Grand Lecturer in the Lodge of Instruction at West Plains, which was well attended. Much private instruction was given. The Lodges are doihg good work and are increasing in number. . Brother G. J. Vaughn,. of the Fifty-fourth Dis'trict, visited every Lodge and held Lodges of Instruction of from one to three days at the following places: Sparta, Ozark, Kirbyville, Branson, Billirtgs, Claflin. and Forsyth. . He ,has kept well informed as to the condition of the Craft throughout the entire District,' and reports them as being in good, healthy condition, considering the existing circumstances. Brother W ..N. Marbut, of the Fift.y-flfth District, visited every Lodge in the District but two, and.. held thr-ee Lodges of lnstruc-
70
{Sept.
Proceedings. of flu!
,tion. With but two eXGeptio~s, the Lodge,S are, in good conditi(;m and doing good work. Brother \V. A. Phipps, of the Fifty-sixth District, reports a very bu',syyqar. More' demands were made. ~n his time than ever before, and ,much good work has been dOl').e. A number of Lodg~s of iIi~ 'stru<;tion were' held and nearly all the IJodges ~ere visite'd. A ,general uplift has been eXllertenced throughout' the' District. The Lodges ~re placin'g the younger m'en in positions of usefulness, thu~ bringing the enthusiasm of youth, with, their ambition to 'e'xc'el in the 'p'erformance of their' respective duties. Th'e r'esult is m~re accurate"and .'intelligent wo'rk in all the Lodges. . . Brother 'Vill'ia~ '.A. Meyers, of the l"'iftY'-Seventh'District, re.ports thilt the Lod'ges ir tha:t. District are doing their '~o;k in" a very commendabl,~ rrian.ner.' 'l,:welve Meetings for Instructio;1 yvere he~d, six at :Wellst0T! and six at 'Webster Groves. At.eac;h .sessiGm ,the work was exemplified by one of the eleven . LOdges, each of which ~vas giv.ena certain evening and informed of 'their date, ~nd the degree they wouid e~emplif~', givingev~ry Lodge ad equal cha:nce. In addition to the' a'bove, 'eve~y I~odge .' was given a~ offi~i'a:l visit. Brother Allan McDowel'IHoyt, of'the Fifty-nlnt:h 'Dist~ict; held th'e 'usual Lodge of Instruction at Indel;ende~ce fo~ the benefit 0'[ the' tw,o Lodges there, and' at Mt. Washington,which is in street car connection distance. Th~ attendance was very good and the interest more than norrr'.aI.,ASsista~Ge,ha~ been' rendered to every Lo~g~ . in the District put . two .. H;e gratefully .acknowled,ge~ the assistance of Bro. J. F. Blair in his work at' Grandview, and reports that, n6't~ithstanding the depletion' of our' ranks' by the war, the Lodg~s are in good shap~ and h~ve plenty ~f work to do. ' ',"
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Fraternally, submitted, J. R. McLACHLAN.
TIME FIXED FOR CONSIDERATIO.N OF PENDING BY-LAWS. Moved and. cairi~d, that the time f~r ,the considerati~'~ of '-. . ..\. . . .! .... pending By-Laws be set for tomorrow, Wednesday morning, at 10 :00 o'clock; or immediately after the Election of 'Grand Lodge Offic~rs. '
ADDRESS,BY M. 'W: BROiA.'M. DOCKERY. There being a short pause in· the proceedings, ,numerous calls 'were :made for. ~;:W"Brd: A.:~.: ·Do·<;:J<:ery~The Grand Master said:
-~Bra~ren.:: .t"a.rri·q~iie:,s~!e', tha~~rb~h~i; DO~,k~fy,.h~~ SQrn,e"
Grana' Lodge' 'of Missouri.
,"1918.]
thinglh his anatoniy.' I, don't· iUlow What it is but I suggest that he, ~dd~ess', the' Grand Lodge; at this time."
:M. Vi Bro.: Dockery r~sponded ~~th ~ hal~ hour's a~p~ess in a fervent strain of patriotic zeal, which aroused themembets to a high de'gree ,of enthusiasm.. ' !
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CABLE GREETINGS TO GENERAL PERSHING', I'"
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:: Mov~~: ~npi',unanirPously': c;:trried, -that' ,M., W. Bro. ,C. C. Bigger, of Laclede, Mo., be directed to prepare an~ send. to Gene:'al John J. Pershing suitable expressions of the sentirnent of this Grand 'Lodge The cablegram'reads as follows: St. Louis, Mo" September 17, 1918. General John J, Pershing, , , France:" " ' , ,' Masonic Grand Lodge assembled in, Arinual' Session,' send greetings to you and your heroic American army, confident you will lead .: th~tl1 to tri1:u~phant, victory. ' ' . ' . C. C. BIGGE:ij.. ,
REPLY, FROM: GENERAL PERSHING. Via London, Septemhe~' 18: 1918. .. C" C.~igger,: ;' '. '" " ' Ma'sonic Grand Lodge, Saint Louis, Missouri: Express to ,Masonic Grand Lodge deep appr~ciati9n of' cablegram. •
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. Report '0£ Committee'on Appeals and Grievances was read" section by section, by the several memb~rs ~{ committee' and on .m'otion' duly rhade and' carried in' each case, the ';rec6mt'nendations 0'£ the ~ommittee' w'er~'approved and adopt, edin 'the first 'eight/cases;; also ,in ,Case' No; 'lO-Jas. 1\1Cavender. In Case No.9, Bois d'Arc Lodge No. 449, against 'Elmer O. Squibb, J as. Stac,ey- and Sam Looney.' A dissent:iiig, report
Proceedings of -the
[Sept.
was made by R. \,\1. Bro. Robert A. May, recommending that Brother Squibb shall also be expelled by this Grand Lodge NOW, instead of being granted another trial by this Grand Lodge at its next session. It was duly moved by M. W. Bro. Arch A. Johnson, that the MAJORITY report be AMENDED BY SUBSTITUTING Broth~ :May's minority report. Same seconded and motion was carried and report of committee thus AMENDED and on motion, the report of the committee, AS A WHOLE, as thus amended, was adopted.
To the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge, A. F. & A. M., of the State of Missouri: We, your Committee on Appeals and Grievances, respect. fully submit the following report: *1. Lambskin Lodge No. 460,. A. F. & A. M. vs. Oliver H. Loder.
*2. In the matter of the petition for' restoration of Dan W. Richmond. *3. In the matter of the petition' of restoration.
W. B. Hayes for
*4. - In the matter of the petition- of Wm. G. Manson for restoration.
*5., Inthe matter of the petition of John S. Seibert for restoration. *6. In the matter of the petition of W m. E. restoration.
Me~rill
for
*7. In the matter of Herman A. Wusser vs. Albert E. Kessler appealed from Bonham Lodge No. 45, A. F. & A. M. *8. Iri the matter of the petition of W. C. Christmann for restoration. t9. Bois d'Arc Lodge No. 449, A. F. & A. M. vs. Elmer D. Squibb, Sam Looney and James Stacey.
Grand Lo~ge of 1I1i$souri.
1918. ]
73
*10. In the matter of the petition of James M. Cavender for restoration.
*Approved t Minority
and adopted as read. report substituted and adopted. No.!.
Lam.bSkin Lodge No. A. F. & A. M. VS.
460,} ,
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Oliver H. Loder. Charges against the accused were preferred in Lambskin Lodge No. 460, A. F. & A. M., containing two specifications. I
The first offense charged was in substance the procurement of a gun from a brother by false and fraudulent representations, with intent to cheat and defraud, and unlawfully converting it to his own use. The second, tation, obtained and afterwards and defrauding
that the accused, by false and fraudulent represencertain l<;>ans of money and contracted certain debts, went into bankruptcy for the purpose of cheati!lg his creditors. .
The accused pleaded not guilty. Trial was had which resulted in his acquittal. In due time an appeal was taken. The evidence does not sustain the charges. There is no evidence of intent on the part of the accused to cheat or defraud. On the other hand, it appears that the accused became hard up on account of being out of employment, and that the debts were contracted during this period for necessaries for the support of himself and family. No good purpose would be subserved by rehearsing the ev-idence. We therefore recommend that the jUdgment of the Lodge be affirmed. No.2. In the matter of the petition for restoration to good Masonic standing of Daniel W. Richmond: The petition of Daniel W. Richmond for restoration to good Masonic standing in the Masonic Fraternity comes before this committee totally unsupported by any new evidence or any recommendations whatever. Your committee therefore recommends that said petition be dismissed. No.3. Application of W. Bruce Hays for restoration: Poplar
Bluff Lodge No. 209.} vs. W. B. Hays.' The record Qf this <:lase shows that the J. W. of Poplar Bluff Lodge No. 209 preferred charges against Bro. W. B, Hays on the
, Proc路eedings .of the
'[Sept.
'ninth, day .of. Mar.ch, i915, on the ground that one Arthur :Tyner, under a dramshop li'cense issued to him in November, 1914, conducted a place commonly called a barrel ho~se, where whisky was sold as a beverage, in connection with and through the office of W. B. Hays Bottling Works, a (~orpora.tion ,of whictl, W. ~. Hays was president and manager, ,and that as such president and manager, the said Vil. B. Hays was engaged in the s'ale of li'quor as a 'beverage, in violation of the By-Laws of ,the ,Grand Lodge. At the trial of the charges in poplar' Bluff Lodge No.' 209 the accused was acquitted, and in due time' an appeal was perfected to the Grand Lodge, which at its session 'in 1915 found and adjudged that said W. 路B. Hays was indirectly erigaged in the sale of intoxicating liquors and actively participated in the profits therefrom, in vioiati~n of th'e Grand Lodge By-Laws, and expelled him from all. the rights and 'p;i\:ile'ges ~f Freemasonry. ,The evidence before your ,committee is, convincing that .vV', Bruce ,Hays has ,changed the, current of his, life, and put behind him th'e business of selling or handling intoxicating liquors, and is, now and has been for a long time engaged. in the real estate and insurance busin~ss, has 'l'>eerr 'and is living a clean and upright life,ahd is ho'nored and tesiJected by his neighbors and 'friends' and the 'members of Poplar 'Bhiff' Lodge No, 209, where ~e resides and~s in busine,ss. We therefor.e recommend,that said W. Bruce Hays be and he is hereby restored'to good Masonic standing, and that' the Grand Secreta,~y i~sue th~ pro'per certificate. NO.4. ",Petition ofWm. G. Manson, formerly a member of Ionic J,.,odge No. ,154; ,A.~l", & A. M., for restoration to good Masonic standing: The
fa'ct~
'before the
comm'itt~e
are as follows:
Wm. G. Manson was expelled by this Grand Lodge September :2'9i'd90'9.: ',(See\ Grand Lodge 'Proceedings ,1909, Page ,15.),' He was . accused of drawing a knife on a brother" Master Mason, cursing,and abusing sa'id'.brother arid making false charges against him. :,At the last session 'bf" the . Grand Lodge said Wm .. G.- Manson petitioned th'e: Grand Lodge for"restoration to good Masonic standing., This petition' '\"'as'refused,because he produced no evidence, before the committee that he had been living a good moral Hfe since his expulsion. Your committee has the' petition of said Wm. G. Manson, saying he is sorry for what he has' said and done and asking for restoration to gO<?d Masonic standi~g" This petition is accompanied by the endorsement of the District Deputy Grand Master, Fortyeighth District, and the 'Worshipful Master; of Ionic ,Lodge Nb. i54; also a petition signed by forty-nin~ brethren, mEmibers of Ionic Lodge No. 154 and Elvins Lodge No'; 599, showing that he is now li'\o'inga'mora'!, u,pright life.', In view of this evidence your committee recommends ui:it ,he be restored to good Masonic slanding.
Grand J~.odge .of. 1~1issouri..
1918. ]
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No.5. In the m~tter :of John' S. Seib~!'t, p~ti'tion for restoration: '. Petitioner was, on May 31, 1915" tried, found guilty and, e~p'el1ed by Meridian Lodge No.2, of the City of St.,Louis. . The ehargo. ag'ainst the, petitioner was that he fraudul~ntly obtained credit for. goods from one Monroe Price. The accu~ed ape. pealed to the . Grand Lodge, and the decision, of the Subor.dinate Lodge was 'affirmed. (Proceedings 1915, 'Page 103.) Three, times has, the' pe,titioner, applied to Meridian Lodge, for restoration and t.hr.ee times, has his request been denied, but one· , affirmative vote being· east at one hearing. At. the lal'it two hearings, the Lodge denied, the petition' :unanimously. There was no evidence intr'oduced before your committee .upon which'it could act! no person recommended the granting of the re,., quest of 'the petitioner. The applicant' states that' he is now a' soldier in the service of the U.S. A. 'However' commendable we may believe this to be on his part, we do not think it sufficient to grant his request. We therefore recommend that the petition for restoration be denied. No.6 . Application of Wm. E. Merrell for restoration: This case was instituted April 7, 1917, in~ate City Lodge'No. 522, A. F. &A. M., Kansas City, Mo., by the Junior Warden filing charges of un-Masonic conduct -against one Bro. Wm.E. Merr.,ell, ,a' member in good st.anding in, said Lodge. After due notice and ,plea a trial was had which resulted in the conviction of the accused and his expulsion. On' July 21,' 1917, the aceused made application for restoration, which, after due notice to the members" was acted upon by said Lodge on the fourth day 'of' August, 1917, and resulted in his restoration to good Masonic standing, but not to Lodge membership. On September 15; 1917; Caleb S: Monroe,a member' of Gate City Lodge, filed w,ith' th'e Secretary, of said Lodge an appeal from' the decision of said Lodge. The By-Laws 'of this Grand Lo.dge provide as follows': 'Section' 241;' time for 'appeal,' as amended 1916-"all appeals shall be filed witli the, Secr-eta:ry of the, Lodge within ttiirty days after the trial and judgment and not afterwards." "This 'appea:l' not hav"ing been filed With the Secretary; within the time provided by law, is therefore not properly before this Grand' Lodge; hence' v/e recommend that this .appeal be dismissed.
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No.7.. Herman A. Wussow-, } Accuser!, vs. ..~ppe~l from Bonhomme Lodge No. 45. Albert E. Kessler, Accused:' . 'I'he accused in this case was charged with "Striking and Beatbig; without just caUSe; o'ne BzraLee:Blanc-ltard/' on' 'the' -sixth ~day of Juri-e', '1917.-
76
Proceedi1'lgs of the
[Sept.
A trial was had before Bonhomme Lodge No. 45 on the seventeenth day of NoYember, 1917, and resulted in an acquittal of the accused by a vote of' seven guilty and four not guilty'; two-thirds majority being necessary to convict. The parties wa-e each represented by counsel. All of the evidence in the case is to the effect that Ezra Lee Blanchard, a young man, nearly twenty-'One years of age, and who had for many years made his home with John Kessler, the father of the accused, and the accused, that on the day charged, it appears in evidence that John Kessler severely whipped the said Blanchard with a double strap. There is no evidence in the record to sustain the charge, "that the accused did strike and beat the said Ezra Lee Blanchard." Blanchard, testifying by deposition, says: "Albert did not help his father whip me." It appears to your committee that the charge was filed against the wrong man. We therefore affirm the decision of the Lodge finding the accused not guilty. Brother Lloyd having been of counsel, took no part in the consideration of this case. No.8. In the matter of the petition of Wm. _C, Christmann for restora, ti~n:
In February, 1913, charges of Uh-Masonic conduct were preferred against Wm. C. Christmann, in Keystone Lodge No. 243, A. F. & A. M., for abuse and neglect of -his family and for evil associations. Thereafter trial was had and accused acquitted, whereupon sixteen members of said Lodge took an appeal to the Grand Lodge. The appeal came on for hearing in the Grand Lodge in 1913, which I'esulted in the reversal of the Lodge trial, and in the expulsion of the accused.' (See Grand Lodge Proceedings; 1913, Page 132.) The evidence submitted to your committee shows that the petitioner is now and has been for some time leading an upright, moral life. The application is further supported by the recommendation of practically all of the sixteen brethren who took the appeal to the Grand Lodge, besides the recommendation and路 affidavits of the Master, Secretary, and various Past Masters, as well as other members of Keystone and other Lodges. Your committee therefore recommends that the application be granted, and that the petitioner, Wm. C. Christmann, be restored ,to good Masonic standing, and to all the rights and privileges of Freemasonry. No.9. Bois D'Arc Lodge No. 449, A. F. & A. M., } vs. Accuser . Elmer D. Squibb, Sam Looney and James Stacey, Accused. STATEMENT. Cha.rges were preferred in Bois D'Arc Lodge No. 4.9 by the Junior Warden June 4, 1918, consisting of two specifications, the
1918.]
Grand Lodge of Missouri.
77
first specification ch~rging a conspiracy entered into by Elmer D. Squibb, Worshipful Master, and James Stacey and Sam Looney prior to the first Tuesday in December, 1917, said conspiracy being that said Brother Elmer D. Squibb as Worshipful Master would appoint said Brothers Looney and Stacey tellers of the election of officers of said Lodge to be held on said first Tuesday in December, 1917; and路 that said Brothers Looney and Stacey, when so appointed tellers, were to fraudulently and wrongfully miscount said ballots and so count said ballots as to elect said Elmer D. Equibb Worshipful Master. Said charge further alleges that said conspiracy was carried out and that said Brothers Stacey and Looney did fraudulently and wrongfully miscount said ballots and that by said count said Elmer D. Squibb received twelve (12) votes and that Brother M. O. Likins received seven (7) votes and Brother Ernst one vote, charging that in truth and in fact there were not twelve votes cast for said Brother Squibb for the office of Worshipful Master, but that only nine (9) ~ere in truth and in fact voted for said Brother Squibb, and that the said Worshipful Master, Elmer D. Squibb; wrongfully announced and declared himself elected Worshipful Master of said Lodge. That the second specification. in said charge alleges that on the sixth day of December, 1917, an affidavit was prepared and signed by eleven (11) members of said Lodge who were present at said annual election, in which they made oath that they, the subscribers to said affidavit, had not voted at said election for said Elmer D. Squibb for Worshipful Master. That among said signers of said affidavit was Brother VerI Brower, a member of said Lodge. That thereafter the said Brother Sam Looney and said Brother James Stacey, in 'furtherance and in pursuance of the conspiracy theretofure entered into to wrongfully and fraudulently elect Brother Elmer D. Squibb Worshipful Master of said Lodge, went to said Brother Brower and stated to him that he must take his name off of said affidavit aforesaid, and threatened that if he failed to do so that they would boycott the business conducted by him in the town of Bois d'Arc, Missouri, and ruin his said business. That said charges were legally served on the accused and trial had on July 2, 1918, at which the accused entered their appearance in person and by Brother L. M. Hayden, counsel, and the Lodge was represented by Most 'Vorshipful Brother Arch A. Johnson. Trial was had, which resulted as follows: On the first specification, guilty, 18; not guilty, 11. On the second specification, guilty, 18; not guilty, 11. Thereupon the Worshipful M~ster de'clared the accused not guilty on both specifications. Appeal was duly taken, tiled July 16, 1918, by the Junior Warden. Notice was served on the accused of said appeal on said July 16, 1918. .DECISION. Since the transmission of the record, the accused, Elmer D. Squibb, has filed a motion in this cause asking that the charges be disn'lissed as to said Elmer D. SqUibb, for the reason thab the
78
Proceedings of the
[Sept.
said accused is 'charged in the specifications filed in this cause with' official misconduct: alleged to have occurred while he was Worshipful Mast~r of Bois d'Arc Lodge No. '449. That said motion was brought'to the committee's attention on' Monday,. Septembe.r 16, 1918. 'That the committee find' that said motion ought and must be 'sustained. Wherefore, we ,recommend ,th~t the charges as to said Elmer D., Squibb, Worshipful Master, be and they are herebY dismissed, and we recommend that the incoming. Grand Master direct that' charges 'be 'preferred against said ~lmer, D. Squibb for snch official. misconduct and that he be summoned to appear before a special'committee of, this Grand Body for ~rial on sl}id charges, and that said, special committee report its findings to the next annual Communication of this Grand Lodg-e,t That your committee have' carefully read the pleadings' and the evidence transmitted with said appeal, and that they are astonished that a' Lodge could clear Brothers Stacey and Looney under the testimony.' There being twenty (20) members present and voting at said election, and eleven '(11) of the twenty' who were preserit testified and made affidavit that they did not vote for said Elmer D. Squibb for Worshipful Master. The testimony goes' to show clearly that said Brothers Stacey and Looney miscalled or miscounted said ballots wrongfully' and fraudulently; that they never once intimated in their te'stimoriy that they could have 'been mistaken in the, writing on said, ballots; but the testimony goes to show that they were chosen by the Worshipful Master' for their ab'ility to read bad writing, one of them being a rural mail carrier and the other a schooi teacher. ' ' , ',' , , Your committee are of ,tb,e. opinion that the ch,arges, as to ,said Brothers Sam Looney and James Stacey were clearly proven. . , " ,WHEREFORE we recpmmend that the judgment of, Bois, d; Arc Lodge No. 449, in this cause be set aside an,d fO,r nau:ght held and that the said ,Sam Looney and J:;J.mes Stacey be and they hereby are expelled from all the rights and privileges o~ Freemasonry. tMINORITY REPORT-CASE 9. "I concur in all of the above decision except with reference to .the jurisdiction of the subordinate Lodge to try Elmer D. ,Squibb. My opinion is that the conspiracy charged against him is,an indiv-idual offense'and not 'official misconduct' within the purview of Section 204 of the Grand r,odge By-Laws, and ,that the trial Lodge had jurisdiction of the charge, against, him also, and that Elmer D. Squibb should also be expelled at this time by this Grand Lodge. "R. .A-. MAy."
tMinority report substituted and adopted. No. 10. In the matter of petition for restoration to good Masonic stand,.. ing of James M. Cavender.' The petition of James M. Cavender, a former member of Van Buren Lodge No. 509, Van Buren, Mo., for restoration to good Maso~ic stan<i'ing, comes before your committee.' , " , 'J,"he appll<:~tion is as follows:
1918.]
'79
Grand Lodge of lJlissouri..
To the Wors.hiPfut.~Grand,I;odge, '.A,_' F. &, A: M. of the State of Missouri: ,Your petitioner respectfully, states that' on the 8th . ,.' day of August, 1914, he was con:victed of a M-asonic " o'ffense by Van Buren Lodge No. 509, Van Buren; Mo., and . suspended for :a period' of· three years from all the rights and , 'privileges of Freemasonry; that on appeal taken by the Junior Warden of 'said Lodge' to the Grand Lodge he was, on the thirtieth day of September,' 1914, expelled from all the rights and privileges ?f Freemasonry. Your petmoner prays that 'hemay' be ~estb~ed to all the rights and privil~ges of the Order, and promises, if restored,· fa'ft'hfut and 'cheer'ful compliance 'with all the rules and regulatio'ns of ·the Order:, .
a
Your petitioner;'further states that on the day of , he petitioned Van Buren Lodge. No. 509, A. F. & A. M.: that is, the Lodge,' by a unanimous 'vote requested. this Grand Lodge ,to restore ,him to all the rights and privileges of the Order. JAMES M. CA--VENDER. September 17';~ ~1'91:.8.. , • ~ , • i , . ' •. ~ :' ;' ; . The :rec'ommendatio'ns of Van Buren Lodge No. 509; of thE:. Worshipful'Master of said Lodge; of the District Deputy Grand Master' of the F"orty-s'eventh' bistrict In which said Lodge is 'located, 'and of ·o'tir Past Grand Maste'r 'Most Worshi!)ful Brother ToW. Cotton, all support this petition for restoration and unanimously state the conduct of the said petitioner has been such that he should be 't.es'tor'ed..to goo'd,'Masonic' standing. ~ .' . . .' • . , . ; ., , Your committee theref<>re ,recoinm~nds that said petition be granted, and that said James M. Cavender be restored to all the rights and "privilegeS .of Freemasonry. . Respectfully. submitted, R. A.MAY, Chairman, JOHNC. ROBERTSON, W. A. 'PHIPPS, THOMAS F. HURD,: HOMER N. LLOYD. EMME'l,'T S. BA4LARD.
.
WAR BOARD COMMITTEE. The Grand Master aiinouri~ed 'the following as members 6( the \-\Tar Board' provided for ·by report of Committee on .Grand :Master's Address: . " , Mo W. Bros. A.,' Mo. Dockery, C. s0!1,R.. Ro Kreeger, C. C. Bigger.,
1-1.
B~igg'~,
poA.
Jami-
\
80
Proceedings of the
[Sept.
路CALLED FROM LABOR. The Grand Lodge was CALLED FROM LABOR at 4 :40 P. M. until 8 :00 o'clock this evening, thus giving the members a chance to visit the Masonic Home and partake of th~ hospitalities there, provided ~or t~e occasion. Prayer by R. W. and Rev. Bro. Arthur Mather. FIRST DAY-EVENING SESSION. The Grand Lodge was CALLED TO LABOR at 8:15 P. M. by M. Wor. Bro. Wn;t. A. Clark, Grand Master, the other Grand Officers being in their respective 路stations. Opening Ode sung by Grand Lodge members. Prayer led by R. W. and Rev. Bro. Arthur Mather, Grand Chaplain.
S,HORT SESSION. The Grand Master stated the Grand Officers had deemed it wise, under existing conditions, to finish the sessions of this annual Commu\lication in two days instead of the usual three.
GREETINGS
TO , SOVEREIGN GRAND LODGE
I. O. O. F.
It was moved and carried, that the Grana Master appoint a Special Committee to prepare arid send,Fraternal felicitations and greetings of the Grand Lodge of Masons of Missouri to the Sovereign Grand Body of Odd Fellows, now in session in St. Louis. The Grand Master appointed on said committee R. \ W. Bros. A. F. Ittner, A. T. Dumm and 路W. Bro. Charles M. Barnes.
ORATION. The Grand Master called upon R. W. and Rev. Bro. Arthur Mather, Grand Chaplain, for some remarks, who responded: Most Worshipful Grand Master: It would be most difficult for anyone 'to refuse a request from you. There is such a charm around your personality, and you have
1918.]
Grand Lodge of Missouri.
81
such an irresistible faculty for evoking a response from those to whOm you appeal that I have no alternative upon this occasion than that of trying to do my best to fill up. the interim, until your committees are ready to proceed with regular business. . 'Vhile sitting here I have been musing on many things, but perhaps most of all, upon the world conditions which surround us today, and I have been asking myself the question, "What part shall Freemasonry play in the rehabilitation of the world after peace is once more restored?" . Our Most Worshipful Brother Governor Dockery, in his eloquent and charming address this afternoon, the beautiful sentiment of which still lingers among us, laid especial emphasis upon the duties which we as Freemasons and American citizens owe to. the world and our fellow men just DO'W. I, for one, believe that our'" Fraternity will also be a very conspicuous factor in the work that will still have to be done in the future, when the war drum has ceased to beat, for the very reason that we are in possession of principles and ideals which lie at the fou'ndation of all permanent well-being. The history of the race is the story of the progressive conquest of man over the forces exterior to himself. He has traveled through the ages, passing from victory unto victory. Such is the record of our Great Light, and such is the story of all history. The animal creation lies completely at his mercy, and in ,the order of progress was prophetic of more difficult and vaster conquests yet to come; until, today, we see the mighty cosmic forces 'Of the ~niverse harnessed for the service of, and under the practical control of mankind. But, speaking in the language of the writer of t'he Epistle to the Hebrews, we are bound to join with him and say: "We see, .not yet, all things put under Him." We are obliged to make the same confession that St. James once made, when he said: "Every sort of beast and bird and serpent has been tamed-but the tongue no man can tame." The tongue, which represents the center and expression of that multitude of forces which is commonly called human nature, is 'not yet subdued. Human appetite, human passions, the impulses, the inclinations, the ambitions, the aspirations, 'the thirsts, hungers, greeds, and furies-all these are still in insurrection and need to be brought into subjection. If illustration were needed we have only to point to the world-events of the past four years in order to demonstrate that modern civilization has not been equal to the task of using with wisdom the countless number' of good things Which PrOVidence has showered upon this age. Wealth has been accumulated upon a scale before unknown, but we have not learned how to use or appreciate it. It has' brought fearful 'curses upon us and has created problems which threaten the very foundations of universal well-being. It has spread ruin throughout large sections of the political and commercial world and menaced the peace of thousands of homes. Knowledge has increased in the earth, and educational opportunities were never so prolific, many men knowing 80 many things that they don't know what they do know. We lack the Wisdom, however, to use our knowledge. We have witnessed in the last few years an enormous increase of power, but the present
:82
Precet;dings of the
[Sept.
spectacle in Europe sadly indicates that we have failed to utilize it for the highest ends. Nevertheless, true as these things may be, and appall'ing in its magnitude as the task is that lies before us, we should not be afraid to face the actual, nor lose sight of the ideal; and out of the conditions which today surround us there comes a mighty call for heroic effort and self-denying service. As individuals, as fraternities, and as nations, men are today face to face with opportunities for the contribution of their quota, which must be no mean nor stinted portion of. effort in thought, word and deed, toward the ushering in the' new order of,things; and the well-being of future generations depends in large measure upon the response which shall be made. The great law of selection is at work among the children of men rust as it is operating throughout all creation-and as the magnet attracts the iron fllings and th'~ film of mercur'y upon. the miner's table selects only the particles of gold; as the dung beetle turns to the offal, side by side with the bee who rifles the hollyhocks of their honey; ea'ch·· selecting what it wants-so optimism and pessimism are not matters of mere circumstance, but of spirit; and you and I will ultimately reflect in our lives and actions ':th'at which we. have .selected., Plato was a devoted disciple of Socrates, and, selecting his teachings, became a philosopher. St. John the : Evangelist,known in ~arlY life as a "Son of Thunder," selected the life and ideals of the Carpenter of Nazareth·· and. became St. John the :Oi~ine, .and is venerated as ari eminent. patron of our 'great '..B'raternity. Jesus Christ, the gr'eatest of all .optim.ists, altho.ugh . environed with th~ sickliest, saddest, 'sorest, 'and seamiest .,sides ,of life, yet breathed in't'o the world the assurance that, ultimat.'ely, man would "come, i,ntohis own" and' "find himself" at last in the full possession of' that .greatest of all' ideals, the service of his fellow-man. f • ' . , • •
of
The supreme .need of the hour .lies not in the qirectjon, of material wealth or ,autocratic power, .but in the whole-hearted surrender of purely selfish interests to the common good of a11. ,Not in the crushing or annihilation of individual personality and talent, but in. the· fullest. consecration of, every power, grace and gift to the uplifting of humanity; and to. the accomplishment of. this end Freemasonry. may .become a trem'endous factor, as, "without hope of fee or reward,'~ we continue .to "do our b·it"~every man standing in his lot. and reflecting the glorious teachings Which we have receiyed, May I, ex.press the hope .that ,the New Year into which our Grand Lodge is now, entering, may reflect the .best which . wehuve selected from. the, achievements of the one that has passed away, and ·it 'may witness the inauguration of that,. Golden. Age when, man to man the world over shall be brothers a)l! .. r thank you!.
l~CIDENTSOF
GENERAL PERSHING'S' BOYHOODDAYS.
]V[ .W. Bro':C.,C.Bigger, of Laclede, who, as a barefo'oted 'schoolboy, was playmate of Gen. John l Pershing, greatly
1~18.]
Grand Lodge
of
Missouri.
83
entertained 'the', brethren 'by' reTating-incidents :6fGen:eral Pershing's youth and yo~ng 'm~rhood" which gave promise of thegre"at~ess of. his future,~areer.
CALLED FR.OM. LABOR. The Gran~ Lodge \vas CALLED FROM LABOB- at 9' :30 o'clock P. 1\1. until 9 :00 o'clock tomorrow morning. Closing prayer by R. Vl. and Rev. Bro. Arthur Mather, Grand Chap~ lain. SECOND Df\Y-}\10RNING SESSION. St. Louis, Wednesday, September 18, 1918. The 1\10st Worshipful -Grand Lodge was CALLED TO LABOR' at 9 :00 o'clock A. M. by 1\1. 路\"i. Grand l\1aster \"IilJiam A. Clark, with the other Grand Officers in their proper stations. , Op'ening Ode sung. Divi~e
B~o.
guidance and blessing invoked 'by R. W. and Rev. John H. l\liller" Grand Chaplain.
MINUTES READ AND APPROVED; The 1\1'inutes of the seve'ral sessions of yesterday were read by the Grand Secretary and approved by the Grand Lod~e. .
'
RESIGNATION~CHAIRMAN
,
OF WAR BOARD.
"It was announced by the Grind Master thatM. \"1. Bro. A. 1\1. ',Dockery, yesterday ,appoin~ed Chairman of War BOiltd Committee, had asked to be' relieved ,of chairm~nship. The Grand ~aster asked M. W. Bro. C. H. ~riggs to take charge of the committee as chairman.
.
.;
84
Proceedings of the
[Sept.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON CHARTERED LODGES.
w. r~port
Bro. C. L. Alexander, Chairman, read the following of Committee on Chartered Lodges, which was adopted':
To the Most 'Vorshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons of the State of Missouri: Your Committee on Chartered Lodges submits the following report: There are 643 Chartered Lodges in this jurisdiction, the Grand Master having arrested the charter of one Lodge, Niangua No. 529. Returns and remittances have been received by the Grand Secretary from every Lodge with the exception of Woodlawn Lodge No. 223. Your committee has examined the returns of 637 Lodges, the six Lodges not included in this repor~ being: Hemple No. 37, received in Grand Secretary's Office September 13th. Stoutsville No. 592, received In Grand Secretary's Ofice September 14th. Sonora No. 200, received In Grand Secretary's Office September 16th. Alanthus No. 252, received in Grand Secretary's Office September 16th. St. Francois No. 234, received in Grand Secretary's Office September 16th. Woodlawn No. 223. No returns received. The Grand Secretary's report was in print before these returns were received, and they came too late for this committee to consider them. The total number of delinquent Lodges is twenty-five the same as last year. The other delinquent Lodges whose returns were not received on or 'before August 1st, in compliance with the Gr'and Lodge law are Nos. 1?2, 157, 161, 175, 176, 182, 248, 278, 382, 386, 387, 435, 465, 500, 515, 552, 604, 628 al)d 633. The Grand Lodge law provides that the representatives of delinquent Lodges shall not be t>ntitled to mileage and per diem, but as a rule the delinquents are small Lodges whose representatives do not attend the sessions of the Grand Lodge and therefore suffer no penalty in the forfeiture of mileage and per diem. "Ve therefore respectfully suggest to the incoming Grand Master that all of the delinquent Lodges be referred to the District Deputy Grand Masters for their respective Districts, and particUlarly the following Lodges: We find that Pilot Knob Lodge No. 182, Forty-sixth District; Dayton Lodge No. 386, Thirty-fourth District, and Gaynor City Lodge No. 465, Seventh District, have been 'delinquent six times in the last seven years. Cannot something be done to break these Lodges of their delinquent habit? Also Woodlawn Lodge No. 223, and Stoutsville Lodge No. 592, both in the Seventeenth District, and Mt. Ararat
1918.}
Grand Lodge of Missouri.
8S
Lodge No. 382, Forty-sixth District, have been delinquent two successive years. The Grand Master usually requ'ests the Grand Secretary to furnish him with statistics as 't'o total membership, etc. as early as September 1st, and it is impossible for: the Grand Secretary to supply accurate figures when the reports of some Lodges have not been received,' and other Lodges are dilatory in making corrections in their reports. We obs'erve that several Lodges ask for visits from the District Deputy Grand Masters, and in some cases even ask for the name arid address of the D. D. G. 1\1. Several recapitulations from various parts of the State were addressed "District Deputy Grand Master, St. Louis," and of course delivered to the D. D. G. M. for th~ Thirtythird District, who re-addressed them. ERRORS AND OMISSIONS. Every year the Committee on, Chartered Lodges has been trying to impress on each secretary the importance of knowing the correct number of members returned by his Lodge the previous year, and starting his recapitulation with that number, but as it is unfortunately true that few secretaries attend the sessions of the Grand Lodge and probably a less number read the proceedings, the efforts of this committee in that respect do not give resuhs. You cannot balance a set of books at the end of a year unless you know the amount of cash on hand at the beginning of the year, and in order to obtain correct results it is just as necessary for a Lodge secretary, in balancing his report to the 'Grand Lodge, to know the number of members returned by his Lodge the previous year. Fiftyr.ine secretaries forced' their balance by starting with the wrong number. The secretary, however, is not the only one to blame, Not over half the Lodges in the State submit reports that are entirely free from criticism, and yet each one of you Worshipful Masters certified that the report was correct when you signed the following: "We hereby certify that the returns herewith submitted are correct in every' particular, and that each blank has been properly filled up?" How many of you even glanced at the report? A mere glance at many reports would have showed you blanks not filled out and numerous errors. Therefore, as the, secretaries are not present we are going to hold you :W-orshipful Masters responsible, and as far as possible, give the numbers of Lodges most at fault. When the proceedings are published we beg of you to refer to this report and if your Lodge is criticised, jump on your secretary and compel him to get his record'S straight, or find out the reason why. We say to any Senior Warden who expects to be Worshipful Master, find out what you are certifying to next year before you sign your name to the returns. The following is an example of what an examination of a report by the Worshipful Master will discover: The report of No. 117 was received at the Grand Secretary's Office early in July, and was properly balanced and apparently correct. The Worshipful Master visited the Grand Secretary's Office, examined the report and discovered that the secretary had failed to report one who had received the E, A. degree, and one raised; also found one man erroneously reported dimitted.
86
Proceedings of the'
['Sept.
The absence of the Worshi'pful' Master's signature indicates in the following' cases that the report was not even submitted to him: Nos. 55,70, 108, 136, 256, 311,317, 415,' 480, 542 and 625. The reports of Nos. 92, 170, 302 a.nd 533 were not signed by either the Worshipful' Master or secretary. Nos. 12; 213 and 573 were not signed by the secretary. / are 177, 384, 523,
The Lodges starting recapitulation with the wrong numbers Nos. 6, 8, 10, 21, 65, 122, 124, 125, 134, 145,' 160, 168, 171, 176, 204, 210, 240, 264, 269, 285, 294, '296, 301, 311, 322, 367, 372, 381, 391, 398,403, 404, 409, 410, 424, 432,' 435, 436; 453, 456,' 478,' 515, 528,541, 543, 548, 551, 552, 558, 588, 589,' 599; 600, 612, 618, 623.
In nine Lo'dges the lif3t of ,members was not alphabetical; viz.: Nos. 72, 175, 176, 231. 257, 315, 595, 634 and 637. The officers of No. 10 have only a faint conception of the importance of the reports' submitted to the Grand Secretary, as the entire report was written with a lead pencil and signed in pencil by the Worshipful Master and secretary. 'Th,e report of No. 493 was written with a lead pencil and signed in ink. No. 7 reported three members suspended for un-Masonic cond~ct, instead of reporting the deaths, of these'three members. This error, if not discovered, might have preyented the admission to the 'Masonic Home of the widbw's or orphans of'these members. The new secretary of N~. 66 appeared i,n'the Grand' Lodge Record as a l<'ellow Craft. Inv~stigation showed that he was raised in 1917 andl that he had failed to report his, qwn raising'. The secretary of No. 623 omitted his own name from the list of me~bers. No. 125 omitted all w()rk, five initiated, five passed and six raised. No. 170 omitted recapitulation and all work; in fact, furn'ished nothing but' the list of membe,rs and that w'as incorrect, No. '185 raised eleven candidates yet' faiied to furnish the Grand Secretary with the name of. even one candidate initiated, passed or ,raised. No. 391 omitted four names, initiated, passed and raised, and failed to report names and dates of two' deaths. ,No. 489 omitted eleven names 'from roster. 'Other Lodges omitting riames ofcandidates,dismissions,'deaths, dates, etc., include Nos. 4, 65, 70, 81, '88, 90, 124, 134, 136, 145, 147, 152, 1'55',' 161, 175, 180, 1'98~ 20'4, 205, 210, 247, 2p, 264, 266, 294, 296, 297, 309" 322, 348, 356,' ~03,' 41.4, 418, 419, 424, .4.28, 435, 462, 463, 470, 478, 485, 514, 515, 5,17" 52S, 531,532,.548, 551, 575, 583, 600, 612, 619, 627', 6.43. All Lodges in St. Joseph. SpringHeld, Joplin, Hannibal and ,Se'dalia sent in 'correct reports. All Lodges'in Kansas City ,",Ter:e' correct e)\:c~pt No .. 643, Which, on1itted name and date of one member dimitted., and路 No. 625 W,l:l.S not signed by the Worshipful Master. ~A..ll Lodge's in. St. Loujs' sent, corr~ct reports w.ith the exception 'of No. 180: This Lod'ge omittednarpes seve,n who w,ere raised. " -It was found . that several Lodges were not complying, wi,th Section 67 of the Grand Lodge By,.Laws, which prOVides that if any , Lodge. shall collect from a suspended member dues, for non-payment of" which he has been suspended, .such Lodge shall, pay the. per capita tax, to ,the Grand Lodge, if 't\ot'previously ',accounted for. This committee wrote several letters ,on this subject and in one case the amount ,paid for such arrears amounted to $14.25. Other Lodges paid smaller amounts.
of
87
Grand Lodge of J.VJ isso.uri.
1918.]
Many secretar.ies fail to rep.ort the name, number .an<J, jurisdicti,on ·.from. which an affiliated member comes. This record should. always be kept and the information reported to the Grand Secretary. The secr~tary 'of Kir'kwoou Lodge No, 484, in his letter to the Grand Secretary,. expresses the hope that it is legible.. This secretary is 'eighty-eight years old, and was Worshipful' Master ·fifty y'ears ago. i His report is 'correct; legible, and much ·neater than the average report. RECORDS.
DE~TROYED
BY FIRE.
of
'Tne halls five Lod'ges 'were destroyed by fire and all records were lost, viz, : Amsterdam No. 141; Maryville No. 165; Pra'irie Hill No. 5~6.; Spripg Cre~~ No. ,'347 and Grandview No..618 .. The, new. secretary of No. ,141 says that fprn;ler secretary suspended eight. member,s. unknown to the Lodge and that after the fire, . w:hen we reorganized, we simply marked them reinstated, to save further ,trouble. and scandal,. as our records were all lost. No. 165, says ;thCl.,t, "our records having been lost by fire, it has been nec~ss.:Hy' to ,collect'infor~ation from memory. These two cases iliustrate the )mportanceof furnishing correct information to the Gralld Secretary. The secretary of 'Prairie Hill Lodge No.' ·546 reports charter destroyed, and that since their hall was burned the Lodge has no place to meet and cannot obtain any place at present. Unless hall is rebuilt the Lodge cannot meet nor 'complete their work. We understand that the District . De'Puty· Grand· Master for the Nineteenth District already has this case under consideration: The Worshipful Master of Spring Creek Lodge No. 347 advises that hall was burned in July, 1918, and that the .Lodge met in' August and agreed to surrender charter. They have little money' on hand and the members wish to affiliate with other Lodges. OUTST ANDING DUES. Total amount of outstanding: dues reported in 1918 Total amount o.fJoutstanding dues reported in 1917 Increase
,.'..
'. '., .. $43,690.00. '., .... 42,784.00
,~'.. ,In • .~~'., . • . . • • . . . . . . . . : . • . . . . . . . .
$
906-.00
We regret to rep.ort this increase ',in .outstanding dues, but when' we· consider theuncertaintie~.'c'aused ,by the war, the large gain in membersh.ip, and the fact that several Lodges have increased the ariHlUnt .charged for annual dues, the showing is not bad. The following Lodges report the largest amount of outstanding dues in proportion to membership:' . No. No. No: No. No. No. No:
30, 63, 92, i50, 209, 244, 440,
154 179 i82 ,65 268 i05 119
memb~~s,
members,. members, me:qlbers" ;members, members, members,
$532.00 $535.00 $547.00 $20'8.00 $864.00 $381.00 $265.00
outstanding. outstanding. outstanding. 9utstanding. outstanding. outstanding. outstandJng.
88
[Sept.
Proceedings of the
'The acting secretary of one Lodge states: "We have three or four members who have 'not paid for five or six years but they have never been suspended, or if so, there was no record left showing the fact, and perhaps the secretary left them off of last year's report, but I consider we are entitled to pay on them as long as they are not suspended, and that is the fault of this Lodge. Let them get busy and weed out the ones who are not paying up." We venture the prediction that if this man were elected permanent secretary, his Lodge would no longer show a large amount of outstanding dues. There are many Lodges throughout the State that report no outstanding dues, but the State, as a whole, does not show well when compared with the large cities. The seven largest cities have thirtynine per cent of the total membership of this Grand Lodge and report only twelve and a half of the total dues outstanding. Springfield reports no outstanding dues.' Three Lodges in Kansas City, No. 446 with 1633 members, No. 522 with 1096 members, and No. 563 with 402 members, report no outstanding dues. Sixteen Lodges in St. Louis report none outstanding and the other Lodges in St. Louis report small amounts compared with their membership. The thirty-seven Lodges in St. Louis with a total membership of nearly 16,000, report only $1,288.00 outstanding or less than eight cents per capita. In Kansas City it is only thirty-five cents per capita. Excluding the seven large cities the outstanding dues is almost one dollar per capita. MEMBERSHIP. Membership in Chartered Lodges in 1918 74,155 Membership in Lodges U. D. in 1918.................. 46 Total membership in 1918 'rotal membership .in 1917 Net gain
74,201 70,144
. . .
4,057
It was remarked that the gain last year of 3,291 was the largest gain in membership that the Grand Lodge of Missouri had ever recorded, but the gain of 4,057 this year far exceeds the gain of 1917.
"RECAPITULATION OF WORK. Suspended U. M. C......... 7 Initiated 6,239 Expelled. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Passed " 5,637 Suspended N. P. D 721 Raised 5,517 Died , 1,033 Affiliated '. . . . . .. 936 Rejected : . . .. 878 Reinstated. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 537 Dimitted 1,121 路Includes, Lodges U. D. Eleven Lodges have a membership exceeding 700, as follows: Ivahoe No. 446 1,633 Kansas City No. 220....... Temple No. 299 1,393 Missouri No. 1............. Mt. Moriah No. 40 1,233 Geo. Washington No.9.... Gate City No. 522 1,096 Westport, No. 340 Beacon No.3.............. 938 Rural No. 316 ,.. Tuscan, No. 360............. 835
802 788 770 732 700
1918·1
89
Grand Lodge of Missouri.
All of these Lodges are in St. Louis or Kartsas City. est Lodges outside of those cities are:
'l'he larg-
Gate of the Temple No. 422 Springfield 510 Charity No. 331. St. Joseph " 508 United No.5 ........•.......• Springfield 505 Moberly No. 344 Moberly ...........................• 446 Six Lodges have each raised over 100 candidates, as follows: Ivanhoe No. 446 Gate City No. 522 .. .' Westport No. 340
214 122 114
Mt. Moriah No. 40 Beacon No.3 Temple No. 299
106 102 102
The following Lodges not located in Kansas City or St. Louis have each raised twenty-five or more candidates: Kirksville No. 105 Kirksville Zeredatha No. 189 St. Joseph Fellowship No. 345 Joplin Acacia No. 602 Columbia Gate of the Temple No. 422 .. Springfield Brookfield No. 86 ........•..• Brookfield. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Solomon No. 271. ..........• Springfield Charity No. 331. ............• St. Joseph Adair No. 366 ..............• Kirksville. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wellston No. 613 St. Louis County United No.5 ................• Springfield. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Carthage No. 197 ...........• Carthage The totals for the larger cities follow: Total Net Members. Raised. Gain. St. Louis, 38 Lodges ......... 15,849 1,073 1,331 (including one Lodge U. D.) Kansas City, 14 Lodges ...... 8,570 929 847 69 St. Joseph, 4 Lodges ......... 1,362 96 48 Springfield, 3 Lodges., ...... 1,355 81 49 Joplin, 2 Lodges ............ 695 50 Hannibal, 2 Lodges .......... 581 20 33 Sedalia, 2 Lodges ............ 513 40 34
36 35 30 29 28 . . . . . . .. 27 27 27 . . . . . . .. 27 27 . . . . . . .. 26 25 '.'
Dues outstanding. $1,288 3,024 271 None 155 400 375
Springfield and St. Joseph are running a close race for the position of the third city in total membership, Springfield having been in the lead since 1914, but this year St. Joseph regains its rank as the third city. We judge from the reports that all Lodges have made purchases of "War Savings Stamps" and "Liberty Bonds," and have members in the armed forces of the United States. Several Lodges report the Worshipful, Master, secretary or other officers in the service, and a few Lodges report deaths of their members occ'urring in l<""rance. One secretary reports that "Bro. Oesch lager is now in the German Army fighting for the Kaiser," and asks if the Lodge is entitled to put a star on their service flag for him.
90
, Proceedings 'of.' the
For the third having one of its a distinction that by but one other
[Sept.
time Jefferson Lodge No. 43 enjoys the hon,or of members preside over this Lodge as Grand Mal'1ter, has probably never been excelled, and only equaled Lodge in this jurisdiction.
In 1901 a Lodge was organized in the western part of the State with seventeen members. Thal Lodge, in ,making up -its 1918 report, found that the blanks furnished' by the Grand ,Secretary were too, Rmall to include all its work and membership, and the secretary, in order to continue his record of always submitting a correct and neat report had special blanks printed at an expense of $130.00. This Lodge is Ivanhoe Lodge No. 446 of Kansas City, which raised 214 candidates last year and has now 1,633 members. We therefor'e sug": gest that the Grand Secretary arrange to have a stipply' of larger blanks printed for the returns of Ivanhoe and a few other large Lodges. In conclusion we desire to thank the Grand Secretary and hi~ efficient assistants for the help given to this committee while in his office compiling this report. Fraternally submitted, C. L. ALEXANDER, FRANK P. McATEE" E. N. LAIRD, RICHARD H. WOODS, CHAs. C. JACKSON, W. ,J~ KENNEDY.
\ REPOR'T OF MASONIC EMPLOYMENT BURP;AU OF ST. LOUIS~ The follo'wing report of Masonic Employment Bureau was . ' presented by the Grand Secretary: September 1'8, 1918.' To 路the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient Free, and Accepted, Masons of the State of Missouri. Greeting: . The Masonic Employment Bureau desires to submit the following report its work during the 'past year: '
of
ANNUAl,
REPORT
lllASONIC EMPLOYl'IEN'1' BUREAU 01<' S'I'. LOUIS 1~17-1918
Balance on hand July 1, 1917 ~ : , .';' .. '.', Receipts (25 cent,s per cap~ta on St.Louis, membership) ..
"$
'27;34-
3,351.83 $3,379.17
1918.]
91
Grand Lodge of .Missouri. . :qIS~URSEMENTS•
. Salaries : : $2,145.00 Rent -:. . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 420.00 Telephone : ...............•...... ' '. . 139.35 Printing and Stationery '. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51. 75 Postage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43.48 Contingent Fund .' ·....•... 45.00 General Expense................................ 22.80
2,867.38
Balance on hand July 1, 1918........................
$
511.79
'. Applications on file July ·1, 1917 (St.· Louis) . . . . . . . . . .. 501 Applications on· file July 1, 1918 (Sojourners): .. .'... ·. . · 141 Applications received (St. Louis) "Applications received (Sojourners)
642
1,226 377
~
1,603 2,245
lit
Applicants placed (St. Louis)......................... 636 Applicants placed (Sojourners)........................ 283 Applications removed for cause 1,115 Ap.plications onft.le July'. t; Hl18 (St. ;Louis).·' '.173 . ~ Applications on file July 1, 1918 (Sojourners) .. 38 211 'J'
i
•. .
2,245
Number of applicants sent to positions :. 2,651 Percentage securing positions (Reported) '.' .. ... 34.6 . P~rcent.age securing positions (Reported) previous year...... 28.5 Average cost per applicant placed $3.12 Average weekly wage " $15.00 Estimated number securing positions and faili~g to report . 175 Applicants out of employme~t last ye:;;'r. (Esti~ated) over.... 250 Applicants out of employment July 1, 1918 '.' ' ·123 Number of contributing bodies '.~' .. 38 ·Includes thirty boys for vacation
wor~
only.
Fraternally, '" CHAS. E." SCHBMACHER, • Secretary.
.F: E. SCHUTZE, President.
LETTERS OF GREETING. 1\.foved by 1\1. W. Bro. C. C. Wqods, that the Grand Secretary be instructed' to write letters to 1\1. W. Bros. Xenophon Ryland and D. M. vVilson, expressing the profound regret of this Grand ,Lodge at their inability to be present on account of ill health. Carried.
92
Proceedings, of the
[Sept. I
TELEGRAM FROM GOVERNOR GARDNER. , The Grand Master read the following telegram from Governor Frederick D. Gardner: Jefferson City, Mo., September 17, 1918. Dr. W. A.' Clark. Grand Master. Grand Lodge A. F. & A. M.â&#x20AC;˘ Marquette Hotel, St. Louis. Mo.: Colonel McCord has been called to Rochester because of serious illness of his brother. This throws responsibility of registration and movement of troops upon balance of us; therefore it is impossible for me to leave here. You will understand situation and explain to my brother Masons. I had looked forward with keen plea~ure to the opportunity to thank them as Governor of the State for their leadership in war activities. Please convey to them my profound regret and ask them to join me in prayer for the early restoration of peace, a peace that will give liberty to all sons of men. FREDERICK D. GARDNER,. Governor.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON LODGES U. D. R. W. Bro.. Jas. A. Boone, Chairman, made the following report of Committee on Lodges U. D., which was adopted: To the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Missouri: Your Committee on Lodg~s Under Dispensation begs to submit the following report: Two Dispensations were granted during the year, to-wit: Apollo. dated May 2, 1918, located at St. Louis; Clever. dated May 20, 1918,. located at Clever. in Christian County. Work was done by these Lodges as follows: Initiated, 15; passed, 7; raised, 3; affiliated, 1. They have an aggregate ~resent membership of 46. I They own property valued at $604.95 Cash on hand........................ 374.29 Carry insurance for................. 400.00 We have examined the book~, returns. and papers of' these Lodges and find them in good condition. orderly and well kept. We think that the interest of the Craft will be well served in granting' a charter to these Lodges, and we therefore recommend a charter for each. Fraternally submitted, J AS. A. BOONE, E. E. DIVINIA, H. H. O'HARA. J. W. BUFFINGTQN. H. D. EVANS, G. A. McCASKILL. H. H .. McINTYRE.
1918.]
Grand Lodge of Missouri.
93
REPORT OF LIBRARY COMMITTEE. W. Bro. B. L. Tatman, made the following report for the Committee on Grand Lodge Library, which was. adopted: 'To the M. W. Grand Master, Wardens and Brethren of the M. W. Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of the State 'Of Missouri. Bl'ethren: The undersigned committee appointed by the Grand Master' at the last session of the Grand Lodge beg leave to submit the following report. We have had before us the resolution which was adopted at the last session of the Grand Lodge: "The undersigned desire to offer to the consideration of this Honorable Body the follOWing resolution: "Whereas, There exists at this time in the Grand Secretary's office what once was the beginning of a Masonic library, and whereas these books have in the years that have gone by been subject to the general decay of time and the accumulation of dust and have been of use to no one within the memory of men now living, and whereas it has become desirable for Grand Lodges of other jurisdictions to found libraries for the better instruction of their members on Masonic subjects, be it "Resolved, That the Grand Master be requested to appoint a committee of three to make such an examination of said collection of books as may be possible, ascertain its present condition, its路 value, make a catalogue of the books and make some recommendatioR to the Grand Lodge as to its future disposal. "It is the opinion of the signers of this resolution that if the library is of any value for Masonic instruction it ought to be placed at the disposal of the members for reading and study, under some liberal regulations. If it has no value it ought to be disposed of permanently." R. C. BLACKMER, WM. F. KUHN, F. R. JESSE. Your committee desires to say that it has given careful consideration to the foregoing, and has looked over the books now in the office of the Grand Secretary,' finding that there is an accumulation of reading matter consisting for the -large part of copies of the proceedings of this and many other Grand Lodges, covering a long term of years. There are also books of various kinds, some relatIng to Freemasonry, others of a diversified, nature, but nothin~ which, in the opinion of your committee, that would be worth while tabulating or cataloging. We recommend that these books be used or disposed of at the discretion of the Grand Secretary,' in whose custody they are. As to that part of the foregoing resolution calling for recommendations your committee would suggest that, after having corresponded with a number of leading brethren in other Grand Juris\
94
. [Sept.
Proceedings of the
dictions in which Maspnic Libraries have been established, it finds that there is quite a diversity of opinion as to their use by the brethren. Some have found what are known as traveling libraries to be of service, but even these are only used by a small p~rcentage of thei~ Lodges. It would seem that in these days, when public libraries are to be found in so many places, that it would best serve the interest of the Craft in our jurisdiction if individual Lodges were encouraged to purchase their own books of reference, 'th us making it possible for individual members to lead others in their reading and research. This could be done at small cost, and to the liking of the parties concerned. .
Inasmuch as there are now a number of Masonic periodicals of great value it seems to your committee that, for the average brother, who is limited in the amount of time that he can devote to the study of Freemasonry, the taking of one or more of these periodicals would meet the necessities of most cases. This could, of course, be supplemented by the brother himself purchasing for his own use such other books as from time to time would suggest themselves by such reading, for one usually prizes most highly that which is his own in preference to that which is borrowed. We think the whole matter of a Grand Lodge Library is one of too great magnitude to be enterprised at this time, especially when the Craft is being called upon for so many other Jhings consequent upon the war conditions which are now upon us. Respectfully submitted, J. R. McLACHLAN, C. C. WOODS, B. L. TATMAN,. Committee.
ELECTION OF GRAND LODGE OFFICERS. The hour having arrived for Election of Grand Lodge Officers, the Grand Master appointed as tellers: John Pickard, Bernal '1.... Tatman, Geo. May, Julius R. Edwards, Thos. H. Reynolds.
C.
Marquis,
The Election resulted in the choice of: JOHN W. BIKGHAM, Grand Master. ' JULIUS C. GARRELL, Deputy Grand Master. WILLIAM F. JOHNSON, Grand Senior Warden. O. A. LUCAS, Grand Junior Warden. WILLIAM A. HALL, Grand Treasurer. JOHN R. PARSON, Grand Secretary.
Robt.
A.
1918. ]
Grand Lodge of 111issouri.
9S
RESOLUTION OF THE HOME BOARD RELATIVE TO M. W. BROT'HER JOHN R. PARSON. By M. W. Brother Dorsey A. Jamison-(Following election of Grand Secretary). Most Vvorshipful Grand Master and Brethren: I believe in scattering a few flowers along a brother's pathway while living, rather than heaping them upon his grave. The brother you have just elected as Grand Secretary for the fi fteenth time was raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason over forty-nine years ago, and within one year he will celebrate, and I believe we will celebrate, the fiftieth anniversary of his being a l\!faster l\1ason. During that time this brother has not been a drone in the hive of Freemasonry; r but he has indefatigably devoted these years of his faithful work in the true l\!fasonic spirit and given his energy to his work for Masonry, and given his very life to this Grand Lodge. But there are things that he has done Masonically that you perhaps do- not know of. Things that I consider to be the greatest of all his works, are those which he ha~ done for the Masonic Home of Missouri. (Great applause.) In appre-. ciation of that fact, the Boar,d of Directors of the Masonic Home, only last Monday, adopted resolutions for your confirmation or rejection, and asking your indulgence, I will now read them to you: "For some time prior to 1885 there had been more or less discussion .among the brethren with reference to the establishment of a Masonic Home in the State of Missouri. At the annual commu.nication of the Grand Lodge in 1885 the matter was brought before the Grand Lodge, and the Grand Lodge, hesitating about committing itself to the financial responsibility of establishing such a Home, appointed a committee to consider and report at the next session of the Grand Lodge, upon the feasibility of establishing such a Home in this State. ' "A large number of prominent Masons of this State, realizing the great necessity of the Maso,.nic Home, proceeded to and did organize and procure from the State of Missouri a charter for the Masonic Home of Missouri on the twelfth day of July, 1886. "During the month of August, 1886, the Grand Encampment of Knights Templar of the United States was held in St. Louis. Various
96
Proceedings of the
[Sept.
committees were appointed to entertain the visiting Sir Knights who might visit this Grand Encampment. "Brother John R. Parson at that time, being an active and zealous Knight Templar, conceived of a plan to have a 'Charity Day' at the old Fairgrounds in St. Louis during the session of this Grand Encampment. A committee was appointed for that purpose with Brother Parson as Chairman thereof. He organized all 'of the visiting bands into one grand band, which, as constituted, was composed of over two thousand instruments. This unusual occasion was largely attended by local Masons as well as visitors. Admission was charged to this concert, and there 'was realized therefrom the sum of $35,114.00, which became the nucleus for establishing the Masonic Home of Missouri. This sum was afterwards passed by the Board of Directors to the Endowment Fund. The principal thereof has ever since then been held sacred as a part of the Endowment Fund of the Masonic Home of Missouri and has been known as the 'Knights Templar Endowment Fund.' Rut for the raising of this ,$35,114.00 by Brother John R. 'Parson, it is problematical whether the Home would have ever reached its present , gigantic proportions. "The committee which was appointed by the Grand Lodge in 1885 made its report at the annual communication in 1886, approving of this plan, Which report was adopted by the Grand Lodge, and ever since that time the Grand Lodge of Missouri has acted as the Mother of the Masonic Home of 路Missouri. "Shortly thereafter the Board of Directors purchased the ground upon which the present Home Buildings are now located. The location and increase in the value of this property demunstrates the great wisdom of the Board of Directors in purchasing same. At the time of its purchase there was only one residence thereon, which would only accommodate a few people. In 1889 the Grand Lodge dedicated this Home-Brother John R. Parson being the Chairman of the Committee having charge of the arrangements for that occasion. He secured the co-operation of all the Lodges in St. Louis and had a large tent erected on the Home grounds and each of the Lodges of the city had tables, and refreshments were served, the proceeds of which was given to the Home. Over seven thousand dollars was thus secured on that occasion from this source. "It should be .borne in mind that the Masonic Home was maintained and supported. by voluntary charity until 1891, when the Grand Lodge adopted a resolution requiring all Lodges to pay towards the maintenance of the Home the sum of fifty cents per capita of their membership. The Home continued to grow so tha't this amount per capita was not sufficient to maintain the same, and in the year of 1908 the Grand Lodge increased this amount to seventy-five cents per capita. In 1915 the Grand Lodge increased this assessment to $1.2'5 per. capita, which is sufficient for the present to maintain and run the Home, whose membership at the present time is in excess of three hundred. "The increase of the membership of the Home, from year to year, became' so great that it became necessary to establish a hospital in order to accommodate those who became helpless and infirm by age. This fund for the erection of the hospital was raised
1918.]
Grand Lodge of Aiissouri.
97
by voluntary contribution, and the collections therefor, amounting to $102,769.32, were made by Bro. John R. Parson. "Later on it became necessary to reconstruct the children's building and erect what is known as the 'Administration Building.' To that end the Grand Lodge passed a resolution requiring each Lodge to pay the sum of two dollars per capita of its membership towards the raising of this fund .. This fund was also collected by Bro. John R. Parson, as Grand Secretary, amounting to $126,515.08. Before the Lodges throughout this State were fully advised as to' the objects and purposes of this assessment, they were reluctant to pay the same, and while some of the Grand Masters thereafter became somewhat impatient at their actions in the premises and were disposed to use harsh methods路 in the enforcing of the payment thereof, Bro. Parson prevailed upon them not to take radical measures in that direction. They followed his advice and permitted him to proceed in his own way in the collection thereof. He spent. much time and did a large amount of correspondence with the Lodges throughout the State and presented to them the facts in such a manner that they could not refute them, and his efforts in that direction resulted in great success~all of the six hundred and forty-three Lodges in the State have paid the improvement fund in full. Brother Parson was elected Director of the Home and served as such from 1886 to 1901. He was elected Secretary of the Home in 1891 and served until 1908. "We, therefore, submit that in view of the wonderful work that has been done by M. W. Br-other John R. Parson, in behalf of the Masonic Home of Missouri, he is entitled to the encomium of 'The Father of the Home,' and should be known as having been one of the stanchest friends and workers for the Home during the whole time of its existence. In view of the premises, we recommend the adoption of the following resolutions: "Be It Resolved, By the Board of Directors of the Masonic Home of Missouri: "First, That we recognize full well and appreciate not only the valuable services which Bro. John R. Parson has rendered to the Craft on behalf of the Home in the inception of the undertaking to establish the Masonic Home of Missouri,' but also the continuous and incessant labor which he has rendered in that regard during the many years of its existence down to the present time. "Second. That we tender to him our grateful and heartfelt . thanks for his incessant work, great deeds, generous services and kindly acts rendered by him in behalf of the Home. "Third. That a copy of this preamble and these resolutions be furnished to M'. W. Brother Parson, as an evidence of our loving appreciation of his unusual. and remarkable efforts in behalf 路of the Home. "Fraternally submitted, "DORSEY A. JAMISON, "SOL. E. WAGGONER, '~D. M. WILSON. "Unanimously adopted by 路the Board of Directors路 at its meeting on September 16, 1918. "SOL. E. WAGGONER, "Attest: "President. "V. O. SAUNDERS, "Secretary." 1 (Great and continued applause by the members of the Grand Lodge.)
98
Proceedings of the
[Sept.
By' M. W. BROTHER A. M. DOCKERY. Most Worshipful Grand Master: I arise for the purpose of moving the approval by this Gra'nd Body of the 'action of the Board of Directors in adopting these resolutions that have just been read in your hearing by Most Worshipful Brother .Jamison. I want this Grand Lodge, for reasons so eloquently and truly expressed by Brother Jamison, to approve the action of its Board of Directors: becaus'e I think it is due to him. The facts justify ~hem, and that Most Worshipful Brother Parson, before the voice of the Great Beyond, calls him over yonder, should be recognized by this Grand Lodge officially as the "Father of the Masonic Home of Missouri." (Great applause.) By M. W. BRO. CHARLES C. WOODS. Most Worshipful Grand Master and Brethren: I wish that the committee had had in mind, or at least in their knowledge, or in their Resolution, one incident in the life of Brother Parson, in order that it might be kept in perpetual memory. It is this: At the time noted by the committee report this morning, when the Grand Lodg-e in 1885 appointed a committee to visit other institutions of similar character and purposes, I had the honor to be the chairman of that committee when this committee, reported to the Grand Lodge in 1886. They were ordered to organize. Immediately, Brother John R, Parson, who was a member' of the original Board, went to his own Lodge, to his Chapter and to his' Commandery, .and before any of us knew anything about it or, what was going on, he went ahead personally and secured a donation路 of $100.00 from each one of them and brought it to the chairman of the committee after the organization of the Board. Now, I wish this to be incorporated in the report of the committee, so that Brother John R. Parson may not only be recognized as the legitimate Father of the Masonic Home of Missouri, but that he may be recognized as the one who secured the first donation of the very first dollar that was ever contributed to the building of this great institution. (Great applause.)
M. VV. Bro. John R. Parson responded: Most Worshipful Grand Master and Brethren: ,This is one more ~vidence of the kindly feeling which you have shown towards me since I have been a Master 'Mason: and I want to say that I appreciate it. A man couldn't be a man and not appreciate it very highly indeed. I am ver'y grateful for the kind words of M. W. Brothers Jamison, Docl{ery, and "\Voods, and for the kindness that I have always received from the members of this Grand Lodge. Brethren, if I can continue to meet your approval and keep your go'od will, your confidence and your love, I am perfectly satisfied. (Applause.)
1918. ]
99
Grand Lodge of Missouri.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON CHARITY. R. VV. Bro. Homer N. Lloyd, Chairman, made the report of Committee on Charity, which was adopted: To the Most Worship~ul Grand Lodge, A. F. & A. M., Missouri: Your committee has carefully considered the three applications for. relief which have come before it, and recqmmend tha~ the following appropriations be made by 'this Grand Lodge: . 1. Monticello Lodge No. 58, the sum of $75.00 for the use and benefit of Mrs. and her five children. 2. To Craft Lodge No. 287, the sum of $50.00 for the use and benefit of Brother , a member in good standing of said Lodge. 3. To, Most WorshipfUl ~rother A. S. Houston, Past Grand Master of this Grand Lodge, thE;\ sum of $100.00 for the use and benefit of Mrs. Fr~:ern:=tllY submitted,
HOMER N. LLOYD,' R. R. KREEGlÂŁH., A. J. O'REILLY, l'~. W. PRENTISS, CHARLES F.. PYLE, H. L. MANN, E. C. WHITE, EMSLEY C. JAMES.
'.'
PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO SECTION 182 OF B'Y-LAWS. M. W. Bro. Arch A. Johnson offered as a substitute for Section 182 of the Grand Lodge By.-Laws: To amend Section 182 of the By-Laws of this Grand Lodge by striking out Section 182, and adopting the following in lieu thereof: Section 182. Same. No Lodge in this jurisdiction shall receive a petition for the degrees or for affiliation from any person who is engaged in the manufacture or sale of intoxicating liquors as a beverage, either as a ,distiller, brewer-, , brewery agent, wholesale or retail liquor dealer or salesman, or agent, superintendent or foreman for such manufacturer or dealer, a saloonkeeper, bartender, or one' who 'serves intoxicating liquors as a vocation, or of a.ny one who is engaged in any capacity in the handling, manufacturing or selling of intoxicating liquors as a beverage or otherwise, or of one who signs a petition for a dramshop license. Nor shall any Freemason recommend or sign any petition or application for a dramshop license. Any Freemaso~ who may, hereafter, begin such business, or do or perform, or be engaged in. any of the acts
100
Proceedings of the
[Sept.
forbidden in this section shall be expelled, [and any Lodge receiving a petition of or retaining in membership a person .so barred or having elected to membership a person so~ barred, and which shall fail to expel such person when informed of his ineligibility, shall have its charter suspended or arrested by the Grand Master]. ARCH A. JOHNSON.
EL路ECTION OF MEMBERS TO MASONIC HOME BOARD. Ballot for election of four members to the Masonic Home Board resulted in the election of the following: M. W. Bros. James W. Boyd, Alexander M. Dockery, TolmaD: W. Cotton, C. C. Bigger.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON JURISPRUDENCE. W. Bro. A. T. Dumm, Chairman, presented the report of the Committee on Jurisprudence: On separate motions, in each case, the recommendations of the committee in Paragraphs .1, 2 and 3 were adopted and approved. In Paragraph No.4, as. to conferring degree on more than one candidate at a time, the limited granting of which authority was recommended by a majority of the committee, a minority report was made by M. W. Bro. Arch A. Johnson, denying such authority. Motion made and seconded, to substitute the minority for the majority report after lengthy discussion was .adopted and the report amended by adoption of Bro. Johnson's minority report. Report of committee in Paragraphs 5 and 6 was adopted and the report as a whole was adopted as amended in Paragraph No.4. To the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge, A. F. & A 路M. of the State of Missouri: Your Committee on following as its report:
Jurisprudence
begs
leave
to
submit
the
1. The proposition to amend Section 27, Subdivision F,of the Grand Lodge By-Laws found on Page 269, Proceedings 1917, was referred
1918. ]
Grand Lodge of Missouri.
101
to your committee. The committee finds the by-law to be in proper fOGm and recommends the adoption of the by-law. (Said proposed amendment being in words and figures, as lows:)
fo~颅
"Jurisprudence. A Committee on Jurisprudence, to whom shall he referred the decisions of the Grand Master, all propositions to amend the Constitution and By-Laws of the Grand Lodge, and no such amendment shall be voted upon by the_ Grand Lodge until such amendments have been so r.eferred and reported upon by said committee, and other questions of law as directed by the Grand Lodge. Said committee shall meet on Monday preceding the opening of the Grand Lodge in the city ~~here the same is to be held, and the members of said com~ittee shall be paid the usual mileage and per diem for their services while in attendance upon said .committee. It shall be the duty of the Grand Master to transmit to said committee, on or before fhe first day of the meeting of said committee, the decisions to be reported by him in his annual address."
2.
The proposition to amend Section 152 of the .By-Laws by striking out the word "two-thirds:' in the forty-fourth line of said section and inserting in lieu thereof the word "majority," sa.jd proposed amendment being found on Page 270, Proceeding 1917, being referred to your committee-your committee is of the opinion that there is not sufficient reason for such change, and that it would be beneficial for the law to remain as it is now written. We therefore recommend that the amendment be not adopted. Said proposed amendment being in' words and figures, as follows: "A brother who shall remain in arrears more than one year after his suspension shall not be reinstated~ to membership by the payment of his dues except upon a written application and by a majority vote of the members of the Lodge present at the time his applica~ion is acted on. The vote shan be by paper ballot." 3.
The proposition to amend Section 176 of the By-Laws,' said amendment being found on Page 270, Proceedings 1917, providing for waiver of concurrent jurisdiction, being referred to your committee, a~d your committee being of the opinion that such amendment made might be the means of permitting unworthy petitioners to become members of the Frat.ernity, we recommend that said amendment be not adopted. la Said proposed amendment being in words and figures, as follows: "Section 176. \Vnh"er of Concurrent Jurisdiction. A Lodge outside of such city or town路 shall not receive a petition for the degree from a person residing in the territory of such concurrent jurisdiction until two-thirds of the. Lodges in such city or town ~hall have waived路 jurisdiction."
\
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4. *The proposition to amend Section 111 of the Grand Lodge By.. Laws, said proposed amendment being found on Page 271, Proceedings 1917, providing for the conferring of a degree upon more than one candidate at the same time, 'having been referred to Y04r committee, and your committee being of the opinion that some of the Lodges are now overworked and have an excess of candidates, and feeling tlmt it would really be beneficial to the inter.ests of the Craft to grant some relief. to some Lodges, but being of the opinion that the p'roposedarnendment does not sufficiently safeguard the Fraternity, offer the following' amendment as a substitute for the proI)Osed amendment: *"Section 111. Samc. Whenever any Lodge shall have received路 ten petitions for the degrees in anyone calendar month, then any one of the three degrees may be conferred upon not more than five candidates at one and the same time, at any special or stated Communication; proYided, that such candidates shall be received separately in the First, Second and Third Degrees and shall pass separately through the second section of the Third Degree. Provided, further. that before either of such degrees shall be conferred on more than one candidate a dispensation ,from the Grand Master shall be obtained and in the application for such dispensation the Worshipful Master and Secretary, under the seal of the Lodge, shall give the dates of the meetings路 and the number of petitions received on those dates." 路Minority report substituted and adopted. MINORITY
REPORT.
4. The proposition to amend Section 111 of the Grand Lodge ByLaws, said proposed' amendment being found on Page 271, Proceedings 1917, providing for the conferring of a degree upon more than one candidate at one and the same time, having been referred to your committee-after deliberate consideration of the matter I feel that it is a departure from the better method, and while it ,might relieve some Lodges to some extent, it would not be beneficial for the Craft at large and I, as a member of the committee, therefore recommend that the amendment be not adopted. ARCH A. JOHNSON. 5. ,The recommendation of the Grand Master c~ncerning the payment of a fee by a Lodge for a dispensation to elect officers at other than regular time, having been referred to your committee, and , your committee being of the opinion that the recommendation of the Grand Master is meritorious and in conformity therewith offer 'and submit the follOWing amendment to .the By-Laws: . Amend Section 93 of the Grand Lodge By-Laws by striking out路 said, section and adopting the following in lieu thereof: "Section 93. Failure to Elect Officers. Should any Lodge fail to elect its officers at the time prescribed in its By-Laws, the Grand
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Master may, upon the payment of a fee of $5.00 to the Grand Secretary for the Grand Lodge, grant 'a dispEmsation to hold an election as soon thereafter as may be practicable, and all resident members shall be notified of the time set for such election." 6.
/
The decision of the Grand ,Master that young men who are in the Army should have the privilege of petitioning their home Lodges in cases where they have no intention of permanently removing from the ~tate, and are only absent temporarily serving, .their Country, having been referred to your committee-your committee believes that the decision is in accordance with Masonic Law and recommends that the decision of the Grand Master be approved.
7. : T,he decision ,of the ,Grand Master on tJ:l.e 'construction of Section 182 of the Grand, Lodg-e By-Laws as amended at the last Grand Lodge, having been referred' to ,your'committee-your committee feels that the decision of the Grand Master, is strictly in accordance with the Rules of Construction of Statutory Law, and that said decision should be approved; but this Grand Lodge, by a resolution, has placed its construction upon the 'section which overturns 'and overrules the decision of the Grand Master and concludes the matter. Your committee is of thc opir1ion that our law should not and legally cannot be altered, amended or repealed by resolution and recommends that路 all resolutions that seek or tend to change the Grand Lodge By-Laws, should be ruled路 out of order, and the practice discontinued. Fraternally submitted, A. JI'. DUl\1:M, F. R. JESSE, R. R. KRgEGER, B. E. BIGGER, ARCH A. JOHNSON.
INVITATION TO VICE-PRESIDEN,T
~ARSHALL.
It was announced by W. Bro. H. H. O'Hara, that he had, when in \Vashington, se'cured the prom~s~ of Vice-President Marshall to address the :Masons of St. Louis, probably the October-the exact date to be ,named later. first week
in
CALLED FROM LABOR. At 12 :25 P. M. t~e Grand Lodge ~as CALLED FROl\1: LABOR until 1 :30 o'clock this afternoon.
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CALLED TO LABOR. SECOND DAY-AFTERNOON SESSION. St. Louis, V\T ednesday, September 18, 1918. The Grand Lodge was CALLED TO LABOR at 1 :30 o'clock P. 1V1. by Grand Master \iVm. A. Clark, the other " Grand Officers being in their respective stations. I
.
Prayer by R. W. and Rev. John H. Miller, Grand Chap- . lain.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON UN;FINISHED BUSINESS. This committee, through Rt. W. Bro. B. L. Tatman, Chairman, made their report, which was adopted: To the M. W. Grand Lodge of Missouri: Your Committee on Unfinished Business begs leave to report that no unfinished business remains before the Grand Lodge. nespectfully submitted, B. L. TATMAN,
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON BOARDS OF RELIEF.. W. Bro. Louis IVloller, Chairman, presented report of Committee on Masonic Boards of Relief, which was ;duly adopted: To the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge, A. F. & A. M. of Missouri: Your Committee on Boards of Relief begs to report that we have examined the reports from eight Boards whose reports have been received and find as follOWS: Columbia had cash on hand last report. $ 209.55 Received during the year, $16.00; disbursed, $10.00, and has cash on hand............................ 215.55 Sedalia reports cash last report. $ Received, $27.50; spent, $49.75, leaving a cash balance.
81.77 59.52
Kansas City reVorts a considerable amount of charitable work done during the past year and that the Board did not find it neces-
Grand Lodge of Missouri.
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sary to call upon the Lodges for any assessment since July '1, 1917. They also report that only about forty per cent of the applicants for relief are entitled to Masonic assistance. Financial Statement. Cash July Receipts
1,
In 7 '" .,
',
Disbursement~
Balance July 1, 1918
$1,752.04 2,781.28 $4,533.32 4,272.34 $ 260.98
Hannibal reports cash July 1, 1917 $ 125.35 Received, $14.30; disbursed, $16.30, leaving cash balance July 1, 1918 , ,.... 123.35 In addition to financial assistance given to the worthy, the members of this Board have been carrying out in a substantial manner the true spirit of Masonry, in visiting the sick and sorrowful and ministering to their comfort in many ways; a very commendable work, and this committee congratulates you, my brethren. Springfield reports cash July 1, 1917 $1,141.27 Receipts, $123.65; disbursed, $205.19. Cash July 3, 1918. 1,059.73' Independence reports cash July 1, 1917 with no receipts and no disbursements.
$ 122.00
St. Joseph reports cash .July 1, 1917 $1,195.52 Receipts, $244.64; disbursed, $405.85. Balance .on hand July 1, 1918.......................................... 1,034.31 St. Louis Board reports as follows: Three hundred and ninety-nine cases called to our attention during the past year. Of this number sixty-seven only were worthy and entitled to Masonic relief; ,seventy-three reported in good standing, but their Lodges reported them unworthy' of assistance. There were quite a few doubtful cases-some for lack of definite information as to their Masonic standing or Masonic claims. Many women and a few minors, several fr'om clandestine Lodges, one expelled, twenty-one clear-cut frauds. Thirteen applicants had no Masonic claims, thirty-six not really in need but felt no doubt that a little easy cash was a convenient commodity, thirty-six lived out of our jurisdiction, fifteen were suspended Masons, sixteen were un-affiliated and three insane persons who could give no information touching their Masonic standing. Fifteen funerals were conducted by the St.Louis Lodges over deceased, transient brothers. This Board reports a busy but -pleasant year's work, their meet'~ ings well attended, and all of the thirty-nine delegates interested in the work and very punctual in their attendance at the meetings. Their financial report follows:
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Cash July 1, 1917 $1,484.87 Refunds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 903.90 Interest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23.68 $2,412.45 Disbursements. By relief Funerals '" ., .. '" Expenses Cont. Fund Secretary Cash on hand
/
. . . . .
$ 973.86 250.55 319.62 127.!l9 156.00 584.43
$2,412.45 Joplin Board has failed to report. Your committee calls the attention of this Grand Lodge to the fact that there are four ,cities in the State where there are two Lodges in Poach of said cities, that have, so far as your committee has any knowledge, not compIled with Section 59 of the By-Laws of this Grand Lodge. Said section provides that in cities where two Lodges are located, each of said Lodges shall appoint three members, who shall compose a Board of Relief for such city. Your committee would therefore recommend that the D. D. G. Masters in Districts Twelve, Fifty-eight, Seven and Two, see that the Lodges in Chillicothe, Versailles, Maryville and Kirksvil~e proceed to organize a Board of Relief in each of said .cities, as provided in said Section 59. Your committee recognizes the importance of the work being done by the sevefal Boards of Relief in this Grand Jurisdiction; and commends most earnestly not only the officers of the Board but the members as well, for their devotion to the Craft. . Fraternally submitted, LOUIS MOLLER, J. E. MILLSAP, J. P. TUCKER.
PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO BY-LAWS. The. following proposed Amendment to Section 175 of By-Laws was submitted and read: To amend Section 176 out the word "all"in the in lieu thereof the words said section shall read as
of the Grand I..Iodge By-Laws by striking fourth line of said section, and inserting "majority ot," so that when s'o amended follows:
Section 176. Waiver of Concurrent Jurisdiction. A Lodge outside of such city or town shall not receive a petition for the degrees from a person residing in the territory of such concurrent jurisdic-'
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tion, until a majority of the Lodges in such city or town shall have waived jurisdiction." WM. A. MEYERS, \ W. H. HEIDORN, C. A. TOLIN, GgO. L. WALTERS.
.
REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON MASONIC TEMPLE. R. W. Bro. T. B. Landon, Chairman, presented and read both the majority and minority reports of Special Committee on Masonic Temple appointed. two years ago. It was moved and seconded, that the majority report be adopted. Moved and seconded, that the MINORITY report be adopted as a SUBSTITUTE. After discussion, the motion to substitute the minority 'for majority report was CARRIED and the report amended: MAJORITY REPORT. To the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge, A. F. & A. M., Missouri: Your. Special Committee appointed two years ago, called The Masonic Temple Committee, and duties of which are fully explained in prior proceedings, offer the following report: We recommend that the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge, at this Communication, set aside as the nucleus of the Masonic Temple Building Fund, Whatever sum it may h~ve on hand in excess of what may be necessary to meet the expenses of the Grand Lodge, the amount to be determined by the Ways and Means Committee, and continue to do so from year to year until such a time as the funds would be used for the erection of SUitable quarters for the Grand Lodge and its officers, said amount to be used in the meantime for the purchase of War Bonds or other securities as may be deemed best by the Grand Lodge. Your committee having carefully gone over路 the proposition for the erection of a Masonic Temple in conjunction with a number of St. Louis Masonic Lodges, believe it to be a feasible and good proposition if properly worked 'out and the proper proportion of cost and definite quarters shown, by more matured detail, should same be taken into consideration later. But we do not deem it wise to recommend action on any building proposition at the present time, and recommend that such matters be taken up later when building material prices become more normal.
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We also recommend that should the erection of a building, either jointly or separately, be abandoned, said funds be transferred and used !or such :other purposes as the Grand Lodge may elect. . We do not believe it necessary to incorporate in the proceedings a copy of the proposition from the St. Louis Masonic bodies, but we suggest that the Grand' Secretary be provided with a copy that he may file it away as a matter of future reference. Fraternally submitted, JAMES L. HECKENLIVELY, JOHN T. SHORT. MINORITY REPORT OF MASONIC TEMPLE COMMITTEE. To the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge, A. F. & A. M. of the State of Missouri: Your committee makes the following report: Since the 1917 Communication, we have received from the Masonic Temple Association of St. Louis, its proposition and plan for the joint erection and ownership of a proposed Masonic Temple in St. Louis, for the use of the various Masonic Bodies in St. Louis' and this Grand Lodge. The plan is attached hereto as a part of this report.路 In view of existing conditions, your committee is of the opmlOn that this is an inopportune time to consider any building project, and that the matter should be continued- for final determination until the war shall have been路 won . .We therefore recommend that action upon the project be postponed until America and her Allies shall have achieved victory, and the war is ended. . Fraternally SUbmitted, THAD. B. LANDON, Chairman of Committee. 路On file in office of Grand Secretary.
~XCHANGE
OF FRA路TERNAL GREETINGS.
The Special Committee appointed to send Fraternal Greetings to the Sovereign Grand Lodge of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, now in session in St. Louis, reported the duty performed and submitted message conveyed with reply received: St. Louis, September 18, 1918; To the Sovereign Grand Lodge of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows: The Grand Lodge of Ancient l!'ree and Accepted' Masons of the State of Missouri, representing seventy-four thousand Master Masons, assembled in its Ninety-eighth Annual Communication, extends heartiest greetings and congratulations to the Sovereign Grand Lodge of Odd Fellows. at this, its Ninety-fourth Annual Session.
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We felicitate you on holding your annual session in the State of Missouri, especially in the City of St. Louis, and we, the members of the Grand Lodge of Missouri. A. F. & A. M., irrespective of what our local homes may be, realize that jn no other state or city could you receive a more cordial and fraternal welcome than here. Freemasonry and Odd Fellowship have many things in common. \Ve build on the same foundations and work to the same ends. We realize that the civilization of the world, the upbuilding of mankind and the establishment and maintenance of a true democracy among nations can come only by a strict adherence tOI the great 'principles laid down in the Sacred Volume that lies upon our altars, and by the promulgation of the 'principles of Brotherly Love, Belief and Truth, coupled with a firm Faith and Reliance on Almighty God. Accept our hearty greetings and best wishes for a successful .session of your Sovereign Grand Lodge and for the continued prosperity arid well-being of your great Order." Fraternally, W. A. CLARK, Grand Master, Attest: JOHN R. PARSON, Grand Secretary. ANTHONY F. ITTNER, C. M. BARNES, A. T. DUMM, Committee.
Rt. W. Bro. A. F. Ittner- reported receipt of reply from the路 Sovereign Grand Lodge of Odd Fellows, as follows: The Sovereign Grand Lodge of the Independent Order, of Odd Fellows. St. Louis, Mo., September 18, 1918. To the Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of the State of Missouri: . The Sovereign Grand Lodge of the Indefjendent Order of Odd Fellows accepts with great pleasure the kindly greetings and felicitationsof the Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and' Accepted Masons of the State of Missouri, and desires to extend to your Grand Lodge and the seventy-four thousand Master Masons whom it represents, the sincere wishes of the Sovereign Grand Lodge of Odd Fellows, and th~ more than two and a quarter million members for whom it acts. We rejoice that we are meeting in a city and State where not only the utmost of hospitality abounds, but where the principles of Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth have been taught to, and accepted by more than seventy-four thousand Master Masons and eighty-five thousand Odd Fellows and Rebekahs. No Democracy can be safe without the inculcation into its citizenship of the principles underlying our great institutions. May
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these principles be triuml)hant in this Great Hour, so that Democracy shall be made safe for all time and the work of the despot ended forever. May your Order succeed in your good State and everywhere. Fraternally, .JESSE MACBETH, Grand Rep. Indiana. NELSON K. MOHR, Grand Rep. Pennsylvania. C. H. CONNICK, Grand Rep. California. Special Committee.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE QN RECOGNITION OF FOREIGN GRAND LODGES. M. W. Bro. Wm. F. 'Kuhn, Chairman, presented the report of said committee, which was adopted section by section and as a whole,: To the Grand Lodge of Missouri: Your Committee on the Recognition of Foreign Grand Lodges submits the following report: GRAND LODGE OF PANAMA. The Grand Lodge of Panama has requested fraternal recognition and exchange of Grand Representatives. ,The committee has given this' subject careful consideration, has carefully read the documents submitted to it, and has corresponded with the Grand Master of this Grand Lodge in reference to certain fundamental principles necessary to attain recognition from this Grand Lodge. The committee fln,ds that the Grand Lodge of Panama was regularly formed on October 12, 1896, by eight symbolic Lodges existing in the Republic of Panama. This formation was completed for the adoption of a constitution, el'ection and installation of officers. This Grand Lodge is supreme in its jurisdiction over the three symbolic degrees and is not under any Supreme Council or General Governing Body. It adheres strictly to the principles of Ancient Craft Masonry as recognized by the Grand Lodge of Missouri. It requires of the candidate a belief in God and the Holy Bible. The square and compass displayed thereon lies open on the altar of the Grand Lodge and on the altar of all Lodges under its jurisdiction. Your committee sees no reason why recognition should be denied, and therefore recommends that the Grand Lodge of Panama be accorded fraternal recognition and that Grand Representatives be exchanged.
1918.]
Grand Lodge of Missouri.
111
FRATERKAI.J RELATIONS WITH FRANCE. In reference to the question of fraternal relations with the Grand Orient and the Grand Lodge of France, as suggested by the Grand Master in his address, your committee regrets the necessity of differing with our Grand Master in this matter. The Grand Lodge of Missouri has twice refused to grant such recognition for reasons fully set forth in each report. No additional reason or data has been submitted to the committee to cause i,t to change its mind. Because our Country is an ally of France in this great war does not constitute a reason or justific~tion for the recognition of irregular Freemasonry.. This war is a national struggle for the principles¡ of Democracy as against Autocracy, and a philosophy 'of life that is the father of barbarity. This war is not a Masonic war. We, as Freemasons, are heart and soul in this war to assist France to save and maintain her national existence and not to 'propagate ]"reemasonry by the recognition of irregular organizations that once were Masonic. There is no more reason for the recognition of the Grand Orient or the Grand Lodge of France, than for the Methodists, Presbyterians, or any other church to throw aside its creed, and admit men of no faith or belief, merely because members of such a church, as patriots, are with FI'ance in her struggle. Your committee cannot conceive of such a paradoxical condition of recognizing as Masonic. because of the war, an organization that we would not and could not recognize in times of peace. War cannot make Masonic irregularities regular, neither can it place its seal of legality upon illegality. : It is true, as¡ stated by our Grand Master, that in 1856 the Grand Master of the Grand Orient said: "Our tenets are-God, the Immortality of the Soul, and Brotherly Love." "\Vould that the Grand Orlent had remained true to this noble and inspiring declaration, but in 1877 Freemasonry of France fell. She struck from her Constitution these tenets, divorced God and Faith in the Immortality of the Soul, and enthroned Reason as its God. In 1877 the Constitution of the Grand Orient of France declared that "The basis of Masonry was a Belief in God and the Immortality of the Soul." This basis was deliberately stricken out and there was substituted therefor the following: "The basis of Freemasonry is Freedom of Conscience." â&#x20AC;˘ The reason for tbis radical departure was explained by one of the leading Frenchmen, that the old declaration was a barrier to the admission of many distinguished men. May we ask, what was the barrier to Which men, seeking to become Freemasons, objected? It could be nothing else but a belief in God and the immortality of the soul. When a man does not believe in God and the immortality of the sou I, what is he? Is he not an atheist? \ Has a professed atheist" ever been initiated into a Lodge in Missouri? No. Shall we therefore stultify ourselves now because of the war, by recognizing an organization that calls itself Masonic, yet bas stricken from its Constitution a belief in God and the immortality of souls? The Grand Orient and the Grand Lodge of France have never receded from this action,. taken in 1877, nor reaffirmed ?er Constitu-
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Proceedings of the
[Sept.
tion prior to 1877. The specious arguments or excuses for her action i~ 1877, that it was due to the oppression of the hierarchy and priestcraft ,of the Catholic Church, will not bear investigation. Because the religion of Jesus Christ has been abused and misused is no argument for the rejection of the purity and genuineness of the teaC'hings of the Gl'ea't Master. Because the Kings of Judea denied and scoffed at the 'old Hebrew faith, and, contrary to the teachings of her great prophets, oppressed his people, which finally led to the destruction of the Hebrew nation, would it be possible that an Isaiah, Jeremiah,Ezekiel and other great prophets be justified in denying t,he existence of God? 'rhe excuse for this atheistic Freemasonry 'i'n France is puerile. 'There is no excuse, however specious the pleadings of her champions may be, for the striking from her Constitution belief in God and the immortality of the soul. When the first Grand Lodge of Masons was born in 1717 its declaration of religious belief was distinctly Trinitarian Christianity. In 1723, when the Anderson Constitutions were adopted Trinitarian Christianity was changed, because "it was deemed expedient t~ bind men to that religion in which all men agree." W'hat. was this religion in which all men agree? It surely was not in a denial of God, but it was a belief in -God, divested of all sectarian bias. Has the Grand Orient and the Grand Lodge of France returned, as some of their champions declare, to this simple faith of the Mother Grand Lodge of the World? No, but it has deliberately stricken out the religion in which all men can agree and has not returned to first principles. Religion means God. Atheism means godless. A few years ago this, Grand Lodge recognized the National Independent Grand Lodge of France and her colonies. Why? Because the three Lodges, a constitutional number, that formed this Grand Lodge, refused to remove the Bible from its altars and also required a belief in ,God. This Grand Lodge exists today in France and it is the only one that has not deviated from the great principles of Freemasonry. It is an active Grand Lodge. Your committee 'can state that one of its Lodges, at Rouen, has conferred by request, the degree on one of the boys of Cosmos Lodge No. 282 Of this city. Anglaise Lodge, Paris, has been visited by the Masons of this country and they found it working and occupying quarters in the Temple. Another one of the ,Lodges, by the name of Perfection, has also been visited by our boys. Jenne d'Arc, An~glaise and Perfection Lodges are legitimate Lodges and un'der the jurisdiction of th~ National Independent Grand IJodge of France. This Grand Lodge is recognized as legitimate and regular by the United Grand Lodge of England and by the Grand Lodge of Missouri. Shall the Grand Lodge of Missouri, who has stretched herfraternal hand across the seas to 'the only legitimate Grand Lodge in Fran'Ce, stultify herself by giving recognition to the Grand Lodges of France to which the National Independent Grand Lodge refused to bow' her knee in godless recognition?" No. The Grand Lodge of Missouri must be true to her best traditi'ons, faithful to the heritage of nearly one hundred years; she cannot play the traitor to' the National Independent Grand Lodge of France by the kiss of affection and also :guide the hand that would stab her in the back.
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Grand Lodge of 1\1issouri.
Your committee can but repeat what it said one year ago: "Your committee holds now, as it has in the past, that a belief .in Deity and the 'Open Book of the' Law' on our altars is the very fundamental principle of the Fraternity of Freemasons. To recognize ~nyt.hing else mea.ns chaos and anarchy .. For this reason, yoUr committee must again deny recognition to the Grand Lodge of France and the Grand Orient. "Your committee is not unmindful of the heroic struggle in which the soldiers of' France are now engaged. 'As citizens of the United States our hearts beat in unison with the brave men of that country, and as citizens of the great republic we have pledged our all to the people of the Republic of France. The ashes ,of the heroes of our Country and of France may mingle in the blood-drenched soil of that fair land. the grass may grow green over their graves and the flowers may bear beautiful testimony to the valor of men battling in a common cause. We are willing to make the sacrifice, and sincerely ,hope and pray that out of it will bc born a new Grand Lodge of France and a new Grand Orient, which will recognize the God who gave them victory and will replace on its altars that book which has been the solace, comfort and stay of her own soldiers in the battle-front and in death itself." Fraternally submitted, WM. F. KUHN, JAMES W. BOYD, C. H. BRIGGS, CHARLES C. WOODS, A. S. HOUSTON, WM. A. HALL.
,REPORT OF SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON WAR WORK.* J
M. W. C. H. Briggs, Chairman, made following report of Special Committee on War \Vork: To the Most 'Worshipful Grand Lodge of Missouri, A. F. & A. M.: Your Special Committee on War Work be'gs leave to submit .the following report: We have carefully considered the .propositions submitted to us by this Grand Lodge. The resolution from Kansas City brethren that an assessment of $1.00 per member be made upon the membership of the Fraternity in Missouri for the purpose of war work on an extensive scale, calls for a larger amount of money than is deemed necessary under existing conditions, and to make the as,sessment provided for in the resolution would require a change in our By,,~Laws, which cannot be accomplished at this, session. W~ therefore recommend that this resolution be not adopted. We approve the recommendation of the Grand Master that this Grand Lodge create a \Var Board and recommend that this Board shall consist of five mem,bers, and shall b~ given power to act, and that
,/
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Proceedings of the
[Sept.
the sum of $5,000 be held in the Treasury of the Grand Lodge subject to the orders of this War Board, and ,that this Board shall be given power to act through existing age'ncies, if they deem it expedient. We recommend the approval of the resolution referred to us, reading as follows: "That the Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons in the State of Missouri, U. S. A., adopt fifty fatherless children of France for a period of one year from the first day of October, 1918, and that the sum of I $1;825.00 is hereby appropriated and set aside for the support of such children during that period, this contribution to be made in four equal installments on the first days of October, 1918, and January, April and July, 1919." And that the Grand Secretary be directed to issue warrants in accordance with such resolution in favor of the party desig'nated by Most Worshipful Brother R. R. Kreeger. Fraternally submitted, CORONA H. BRIGGS, R. R. KREEGER, A. M. DOCKERY,' C. C. BIGGER, DORSEY A. JAMISON. Committee. *Substitute adopted.
W. Bro. G. S.McLanahan offered a substitute for the first part of. War Committee's report and moved its adoption. A motion was made that the portion of report made by M. ,W. Bro. C. B. Briggs, ,as .to appropriating .$$,000,00, be refer:red back to the committee for further consideration, and to report on it again before the 'close of this session of the Grand Lodge. . The Grand Master put the question on the substitute and the McLanahan substitute was unanimously carried. Moved and carried, that remainder of War Commi~tee's report as to an appropriation of $1,825.00 be adopted. '.the report as amended, reads as follows:
RESOLUTION-IN RE WAR FUND Whereas, There is a large number of Freemasons belonging to the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Missouri who are now overseas serving in the United States Army and Navy, and for' whose care and comfort it is the particular duty of this Grand Lodge to, contribute, especially in a Masonic, Fraternal and Social sense, and, Whereas, In order that these brothers of ours can be given this' fraternal, and social service, there sho路uld be established a general
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Grand Lodge of Missouri.
115
Masonic headquarters. of the Orand Lodge of Missouri in the war zone as niay be deemed expedient, and such headquarters shall be manned by workers from this Grand Jurisdiction, therefore, Be It Resolved, that the Grand Lodge of Missouri establish a Masonic headquarters in France and other foreign countries, as the need may appear, and that for such purposes there be appropriated the sum of $5,000.00 in cash by this Grand Lodge, and that the" Master Masons of Missouri be requested by the Grand Secretary to contribute $1.00 per capita, pcr annum, to be paid immediately through the various Lodges in this jurisdiction, and the sum so collected be immediately remitted to the Grand Secretary. Such fund shall be at the disposal of this committee to carry out the aims and purposes of this resolu"tion, and, be it . Further Resolved, That the incoming Grand Master appoint a committee, to be known as the Missouri Freemasons' Fraternal and Social Service Overseas Committee, which committee shall consist of five members and which shall be authorized and empowered to do all things necessary to carry into effect the spirit and purpose of these resolutions, and be it Further Resolved, That t.hesaid committee shall ask the cooperat.ion of the "National Independent Grand Lodge of France and her colonies" in this work. Be It Further Resolved, That the committee herein be appointed without delay, that it may commence its work immediately. Be It Further Resolved, That the Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons in the State of Missouri, U. S. A., adopt fifty fatherless children of France for a period of one year from the first day of October, 1918, and that the sum of $1,825.00 is hereby appropriated and set aside for the support of such children during that period; this contribution to be made in four equal installments: on the first days of October, 1918, and January, April and July, 路1919. And that the Grand Secretary be directed to issue warrants in accordance with such resolution in favor of the party designated by M. W. Bro. R. R. Kreeger. . GEO. S. McLANAHAN.
SUBSCRIPTIONS TO WAR FUND. M. W. Bro. A. M. Dockery, M. W. Bro. Jacob Lampert, and W". Bro. G. S. :McLanahan, for Ivanhoe Lodge 446, each pledged $500.00 contributions to )this War Work Fund.
LODGES UNDER "DISPENSATION PLACED ON" PAY ROLL. lVloved by M. "Y\!. Bro. F. R'. Jesse that one representative from each Lodge Under Dispensation be placed on the pay roll. Adopted.,
116
Proceedings of the
[Sept.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON WAYS AND MEANS. 1\1. VV'. Bro. Frank R. Jesse, Chairman, presented and read the following repol:t of Committee on Vvays and Means, which was adopted: '1'0 the Most Worshipful Grand Lodg-e, A. F. & A. M. of Missouri:
Your Committee on Ways and Means submits the following fiscal exhibit: The cash in the treasury available at this time for the current expenses for the ensuing- year is $45,050.36, and we recommend the following- appropriations: Pay Roll 1918, Warrant No.!. $ 7,800.86 Printing- Proceedings for 1918 . 3,000.66 Expenses of the Grand Master . 1,000.00 Rent of Grand Lodge Offices ' : . 1,500.00 Salary of Grand Secretary . 3,000.00 Printing, Postage, Stationery and Incidentals . 1,500.00 Salary of Grand Lecturer . 2,500.00 Expenses of Grand Lecturer . 700.00 Additional expense of Grand Lecturer on account of war . 300.00 Assistant to Grand Secretary ..............•............... 1,200.00 Assistant to Grand Secretary . 960.00 Salary, Committee on Fraternal Correspondence . 400.00 Salary of Grand Treasurer . 200.00 Salary of Gra.nd Tiler ~ . 150.00 Portrait of Grand Master Clark . 50.00 Premium on Bonds of Grand Secretary and Grand Treas . 100.00 150.00 . . Past Grand Master's Jewel for 'V. A. Clark L. :\1. Edgar, reporting proceeding-s and transcript thereof .. 60.00 B. 1<'. Wilson, Chairman Pay Roll Committee . 100.00 50.00 C. IJ. Alexander, Chairman Committee on Chartered Lodges. Telephones, Grand Lodge Offices . 150.00 225.00 Charity, as per· report of Committee on Charity . Reprinting- and distributing Masonic ,Manuals . 1,500.00 63.06 }i;xpenses of Committee on Masonic Temple . 10.60 C. H. Carpenter, nurse-Rochester JJodge No. 248 (defunct). 50.00 H. Clay Perkins, Auditing "'<\.ccounts . 358.01 'Expenses, this session of Grand Lodge . Repairs to and furnishings of Grand Lodge Offices . 1,000-.00 Masonic Horne Improvement Fund ' . 3,500.00 "Fatherless Children of France" (50) . 1,825.00 Fraternally
submitted, $33,402.53' FRANK R. JESSE, JOHN T. SHORT, T. W. COTTON, GEORGE COSLOW, H. C. CHILES, CRAS. E. CLOWE, J. W. RUFFINGTON, E. A. FLUESMEIER.
117
Grand Lodge of Missouri.
1918. ]
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON PAY ROLL. W. Bra: B. F. Wilson, Chairman, made the following report of the Committee on Pay Roll, which waS adopted: To I the Grand Lodge, A. F. & A. M. of Missouri: Your Committee on Pay Roll at this session of the Grand Lodge begs to report that the allowances paid for mileage and per diem have' been distributed as路 follows: ' Grand Lodge Officers $ 257.52 Past Grand Masters........................................ 292.14 District Deputy Grand Masters............................. 752.26 District Lecturers.......................................... 110.22 Chairmen of Standing Committees ..... :.................... 113.94 Appeals and Grievances Committee......................... 70.68 Lodges Under Dispensation................................. 27.42 Representatives of Chartered Lodges....................... 6,214.76 Total
$7,838.94 Fraternally submitted, B. F. WILSON, Chairman, C. WOLLMAN, J. E. THOMPSON, W. D. MOORE, THOS. J. PORTER. GRAND OFFICERS.
W. A. Clark John 'V. Bingham Julius C. GarrelL \Vm. F. J ohllson Wm. A. Hall John R. Parson John H. Miller Arthur Mather O. A. Lucas
. . . . . . . .
$ 13.50 20.52 6.00 16.20 6.00 6.00 22.62 6.00 22.62
Bert S. Lee Austin L. McRae W. \V. Martin Chas. C. Gardner .r. R. McLachlan John Pickard Harry A. Krueger Joseph S. McIntyre Orestes Mitchell.
. . . . . . . .
20.34 '12.66 18.24 18.30 17.28 14.76 6.00 6.00 24.48
PAST GRAND MASTERS. A. M.路 Dockery Chas. C. Woods Robt. F. Stevenson James W. Boyd A. 1\1. Hough Dorsey A. Jamison C. H. Briggs Wm. F. Kuhn A. S. Houston
. . . . . . . . .
21.06 19.50 6.00 24.48 13.50 6.00 20.34 22.62 12.60
John T. Short R. R. Kreeger Clay C. Bigger Arch A. Johnson Jacob Lampert. V. F. Boor T. W. Cotton Frank R. Jesse Edw::Lrd Higbee
DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MA.STERS. A. J. O'Reilly H. N. Martin............. 17.28 R. B. Campbell 路 Charles 路Banks........... 18.24 A. M. Harlan John Santee............. 19.5Q!
13.50 22.62 18.60 20.34 6;00 22.62 . 17.46 6.60 . . 18.30
. . . . . .
. . .
6.00 21.00 17.28
~-
118
.[ Sept.
Proceedings of the
J. E. J. II. H. E.
H. Clawson ' . W. Prentiss . Eo Reese ... S. Teare ..•........... W. Saunders . C. James . Eo W. Tayler . W. L. Hamrick . B. Eo Bigger Thomas F. Hurd . T. H. ·Walton . H. L. Mann . J. R. Tucker . W. T. Wernwag . J. S. Wilson . M. E. Schmidt. . S. P. Cunningham . Eo A. Fluesmeier . 0
21.78 24.36 25.08 26.46 22.50 23.28 18.36 16.50 13.20 15.84 14.76 17.22 23.22 20.94 14.34 16.20 12.60 9.24
••••••••••
0
•••••••
H. T. Wright. , Chas. E.pyle : .Ino . .M. Chamberlin H. H. Finley Henry Kraft, Jr Edward Clark C. A. :Swenson J. M. Carnahan W. B. Massey G. W.o Miller H. A. Stearns G. J. Vaughan W. N. Marbut W. A. Phipps W. A. Meyers Edwin Nelson A. McD. Hoyt 0
o
. . 0
••
. . . . . : . . •••••
. . . .
16.92 8.76 22.92 20.52 22.68 21.34 22.14 20.64 9.66 14.88 21.96 21.42 22.86 24.66 6.72 16.62 22.38
DISTRICT LECTURERS. P. O. Sansberry B. F. Watson Chas. T. Kornbrodt
. . .
CHAIRMEN A. T. R. A. A .• F. B. F. C. L. James
Dumm lVlay Weeke Wilson Alexander A. Boone
18.00 24.48 22.62
OF . . . . '. . .
M. A. Wittman Geo. W. Custer V. P. Adams
STANDING 13.50 11.64 6.00 13.50 6.00 16.68
6.00 20.34 18.78
. 0
•••
..
COMMITTEES.
Geo. S. McLanahan. Louis Moller A. B. Timerman B. L. Tatman F. L. Magoon 0
.-
0
22.62 6.00 ,6.00 6.00 6.00
•••••
. . .
••••••••••
COMMITTEE ON APPEALS AND GRIEVANGES. Homer N. Lloyd Jno. C. Robertson Thos. F. Hurd
. . .
H. '\V. Powers
.
9.36 9.00 18.84
Eo S. Ballard W. A. Phipps Robert A. May
. . .
27.48 3.00 3.00
T. Melton.............
21.42
~
LODGES U. D.
No. l.
2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 8. 9. 12.
LODGE
6.00
L.
. PAID
REPR;ESENTATIVE
Missouri Meridian Beacon Howard United Ark Williamsburg Geo. Washington Tyro 0
••••
0
000
A. H Winkelmeyer Joseph 'V. Zykan .Otto W. Vossmeyer 'YV. O. Cox Frank P. McAtee C. H. Tucker 0. Garrett. Walter H. Niestrath R. R. Bean
$ 6.00 00'
00'
••••••
00'
0
••
0
0
••••••
•••••••
0
0
6.00 6.00 . 13.38 20.34 . 16.80 9.10 . 6.00 10.86
•••••••••••
••••••••••••
•••
0
••
1918. ] No.
,,'
15. 16. 17. 19. 20. 24. 25. 26. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32. 33. 34. 35. 36. 40. 41. 43. 45. 46. 48. 50. 51. 52. 56. 57. 58. 59. 60. 62. 63. 66. 69. 72. 73. 74. 76. 77. 78. 79. 80. 83. 84. 85. 86. 87. 89. 92. 93. !l4. 95.
Grand Lodge of Missouri. LODGE
REPRESENT ATIVE
119 PAID
Western, Star James Bradford 21.72 Memphis W. W. Wagner .. : 18.26 Clarksville .........• Orie McLeod....................... 11.04 Paris, Union A. T. Vaughan 15.84 St. Louis Aug. Barthel...................... 6.00 Wyaconda C. N. Thomas 15.00 Naphtali. J. E. Zelch........................ 6.00 Ava lI. S. Vifilson 23'.88 St. John Chas. H. Hussong 13.20 Windsor Paul H. Brame 18.96 Huntsville Jacob V. Minor 15.30 Liberty O. T. Moore 22.02 Humphreys Fred D. Moberly 17.51 Ralls A. F. Herron ' 13.68 Troy Hackley P. Reeds.................. 9.60 Mercer J. E. Herrington 23.16 Cooper Clarence L. Hurt. 16.20 Mt. Moriah H. Clay Perkins.................... 6.00 Bismarck : .T. F. Strickland 10.74 Jefferson ...........• '\V. D. Rogers 13.50 Bonhomme '.John L. Peterson.................. 7.38 Wentzville J. A. Reed........................ 5.70 Fulton ............• John R. Baker '. 11.04 Xenia O. L. Muth , 25.98 ' LiVingston Geo. BedelL 14.70 Wakanda ..........• Thomas M. Rucker 18.66 Tipton ',' ""alt. M. Monroe 14.35 Richmond David E. Izett ...........•......... 20.46 Monticello .. ; J. "". Hawkins 13.20 Centralia Wm. H. Carpenter 13.44 New Bloomfield Earl McD. TIush 14.46 Vincil James E. Deems 21.96 Cambridge Jonas A. Stern 16.68 Grant City Robt. Vl. Krotzer _ 24.60 Sullivan ' H. G. Landon : 10.08 Gorin Joe Hicks 18.30 Eureka G. '\V. Rucker 17.22 Warren Albert F~ Arrington............... 16.56 Independence Walter E. Schulenberg 21.98 Lebanon Ben J. Hiller 11.7(1 St. Joseph Saul G. Mannschreck 24.48 Polar Star E. M. Dragoo...................... 6.00 Bridgeton W. H. Heidorn..................... 6.96 Laclede .............• J. K Millsap 16.86 Webster Groves ....• Carl H. McClure, Jr................ 6.60 Miami F. M. Burrus 17.82 Brookfield g. E. Cramer 18.24 Washington L. H. Thomas 22.62 Friendship J. Eo Pardonner 19.50 Perseverance Albert C. Behringer 11.94 St. Marks H. H. Haas 13.86 Vienna .............• B. F. Branson 15.12 Pomegranate Adelbert G. R. Gotsch............. 6.00
120 No. 96. 98. 99. 100. 102. 104. 105. ,106. 107. 109. 110. 111. 112. 114. 115. 116. 117. 118. 119. 120. ' 121. 122. 123. 126. 129. 131. 136. 137. 139. 140. 141-
144. 145. 149. 150. 153. 154. 156. 158. 159. 163. 165. 166. 168. 173. 174. 177. 178. 179. 180. 183. 184. 185.
/
Proceedings of the LODGE
[Sept.
REPRESENTATIVE
St. Andrews Albert Brant. Webster Jess W. Moore Mt. Vernon' E. A. Lon Smith Ash Grove William Richter Bloomington , ,John D. Watkins lIeroine Leo Adler Kirksville J. F. Miller, Jr Gallatin Archie E. Brookshire Greenville A. G. Templeton Stanberry F. J. Hinkley Marcus ,Valter Marlow Trenton ............• Lewis E. Ford Maitland E. D. Patterson Twilight. D. T. Gentry Laddonia A. R. Hancock Barnes B. F. Fielden Versailles R. H. Woods Kingston , O. J. Adams De Soto Geo. A. Auerswald Compass Geo. B. Tuggle Erwin Geo. D. Wobbe Tripplett J. A. Twyman Hermann F. A. Beckman Seaman Walter R. Shrodes . Monett Sig. Solomon " Potosi N. A. Maxwell Phoenix J. E. Thompson : Delphian ,. F. J. Humphrey Oregon ............. • .T. C. Gifford Papinville J. B. Campbell Amsterdam G. "V. Armentrub Modern .: w. A. Crow Latimer J. H. Smith Lexington R. C. Chiles Birming .. , Chas. M. Davis Bloomfield T. L. Ashley : Ionic L. W. Garrett, Jr AShland E. P. Crenshaw Mountain Grove R. L. Botton Green City J. M. Borden Occidental Henry O'Hara Maryville Jonathan Stark Portageville .. ' K. T. Swilley Colony ' Virgil Romjue Gray Summit R. A. Thornhill Sturgeon J. L. Laxton Texas Geo. H. Scott Griswold J. l<~. Foster Pride of the West Tohn Anderson Pyramid W'm. E. Whitman California Edw. H. Roth Morley ·R. H. Lester Chamois J. R. Garstang
PAID '
. . . : . . ".. . . . . . . . . . . . . '.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . '-: . . . " . . . . . . . . . .
16.02 18.78 22.86 21.36 16.50 22.62 18.30 21.06 15.66 23.64 12.24 21. 78 26.88 14.76 13.20 21.54 14.70 21.66 8.70 23.98 3.00 17:.64 10.80 20.52 22.92 16.08 11.70 16.80 23.46 16.80 17.15 22.32 14.82 20.64 22.75 16.68 9.96 14.64 22.14 23.62' 6.00 25.08 18.00 12:95 8.46 13.92 22.50 11.10 6.00 6.00 15.00 15.90 12.00
Grand Lodge of 1J1issouri;
1918.] No.
LODGE
REPRESENT ATIVE
186. Morality A. G. Davis 189. Zeredatha E. L. Speer 192. Frankford n.. J. Parham ; 194. Wellsville R. G. McKibben 195. Bolivar H. V. Talbot · 199. New Hope R. E. Black : 202. Westville E. J. Crew 203. Brumley D. G. Wall 205. Trilumina V. V. Huff 207. Clay H. F. Owen 210. Unionville G. ,"V. Underwood 211. Hickory Hill W. R. Howard '. . .. 212. Four Mile Thos. B. Utley..................... 213. Rolla A. S. Niles : 215. Hornersville Eo G. Cope 216. Hale C. W. D. Pulty 217. Barbee W. W. George 218. Good Hope French Farrow.................... 219. Albert Pike Ch~rles Beggs 220. Kansas City Nathan Newstretter 221. Mystic Tie Jas. W. Smith..................... 222. La Belle , .. A. H. Bradshaw 224. Hamilton John G. King 225. Salem "V. ll. Peck 228. Shelbina C. W. Elbgood 230. St. James Thomas Bremer 231. Cardwell Henry O'Sullivan 233. Bucklin Jas. B. Shook 236. Sedalia W. T. '\Vallace 237. La Plata .Tas.. S. Sears 241. Palestine Miller White....................... 242. Portland H. R. Gilbert 243. Keystone T. R. young.'...................... 244. Middle Fabius A. .r. Drake '. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 246. Montgomery City H. E., Bau 247. Neosho Leo H. Johnson 251. Hope F. H. Tieman..................... 253. Laredo J. R. Pence........................ 254. Butler VV. Eo Wetton 255. Alton O. S. Gohn 256. Shekinah K A. Santschi..................... 258. Ravanna Clyde Rains 259. Lodge of Love Chas. M. york 261. Florence Geo. W. Dutton.................... 262. Holden L. H. Rose 264. Kirbyville :~ .G. B. Jackson 265. Corinthiani • • • . • • • • • O. W. Greer........................ 266. 'Social L. E. Stephens..................... 267. Aurora C. H. Knapp....................... 268. Lodge of Truth r. B. ·Wright. 270. New Salem Brevator Wise..................... 272. Granite Chas. F. Ernst 273. St. Clair Oliver Brown '
121 PAID '11.52 24.48 12.54 11.52 22.62 10;08 18.36 16.80 17.34 ' 21.72 21.78 14.70 18.72 12.60' 21.90 18.72 15.66 6.00 22.62 22.62 13.44 16.08 21.06 10~62
15.54 12.00 20~04
17.64 14.28 17;46 7.44 12.48 6.00 19.44 11.04 24.60 9.24 20;52 22.92 24.24 8.16 24.00 20.04 10.94 19.92 19.75 19.08 11.82 6.00 16.92 9.36 17.28 21.18
122 No. 274. 276. 277. 281. 282. 283. 284. 285. 286. 287. 290. 291. 292. 293. 294. 295. 299. 303. 304. 305. 307. 310. 311. 315. 316. 318. 319. 320. 322. 323. 324. 325. 327 . . 331. 332. 334. ·335. 336. 337. 340. 343. 344. 345. 346. 347. 352. 354. 355. 356. 357. 360. • 362. 363.
Proceedings._of the LODGE
REPRESENTATIVE
[Sept. PAID
Cold Spring Elmer Hobson., . 19.62 Grand River R. G. Keller . 21. 78 Wm. D. Muir Guy Long : . 16.86 Fenton E. J. Torrence . 7.32 Cosrnos J. H. I,ambur . 6.00 Stockton G. L. Walker . 23.70 Canopy John H. Hoach . 22.14 Earl ",V. Guy Welden .. .'. ' . 19.95 Urich B. N. Stewart . 19.25 Craft P. N. lIanna . 15.36 Fairmount J. R. Culbertson . 18.00 Edina G. H. Hickman . 16.98 Lamar Vol. A. Evans . 24.06 Sarcoxie Geo. 'V. Wood . 23.94 Mound City '1'. J. Bridgman . 27.00 Moniteau W. C. Weisser . 15.72 Temple E. L. Legg . 22.62 Osage Hal Mitchell. . 22.68 Signal ...•.......... H. C. Chancellor . 19.60 Clarence W. B. Brewington . 16.26 New London Geo. E. Mayhall . 13.08 Sikeston F. E. Mount . 15.90 Kearney W. S. Riley . 23.10 Jerusalem J. P. Long . 24.15 Rural C. H. Robinson . 22.62 Eldorado Jno. A. Evans . 14.35 Paulville Maurice Fowler: . 16.45 Morgan B. F. Bowline . 16.45 Hardin ~ "V. G. Kennedy . 19.74 Corner Stone . ~ Ceo. Schmorleitz . 6.00 McDonald K C. Ward '.. 21.78 Dockery W. L. Tharp . 16.02 Mt. Zion E. N. Laird ',' . 21.96 Charity M. H. Legg , . 24.48 Excello \Y. N. Franks . 13.30 Breckenridge J. M. Chaffin , . 20.46 Joplin Guy C. Spooner . 25.86 Hallsville WlTl. H. Brink ' ~ . 13.98 Blue Springs Guy K. Quinn . 19.60 Westport D. A. Brown , . 22.62 Agricola Jos. A. Ross : . 17.76 Moberly W. F. Wigginton ......•........... 14.88 Fellowship' W. L. Perry : . 25.86 Arlington B. A.Aistrop . 14.10 Spring Creek C. L. Arthur . 13.86 Friend H. N. Rogers , . 21.54 Hebron r. "v. Buffington . 12.60 Adelphi J. S. Hall . 19.25 Ancient Landmark .. E. A. Morgan . 11.20 Aux Vasse L. E: Martin . 13.32 Tusca~ 1<'. C. Donnell . 6.00 Hiram ' r. P. Scott . 17.28 Fraternal C. B. Zumwalt . 8.46
Grand Lodge of Missouri.
1918.] No. 364. 366. 368. 369. 370. 373. 376. 377. 379. 380. 383. 384. 385. 389. 390. 391. 392. 398. 400. 401. 403. 404. 406. 407. 412. 416. 417. 420. 422. 424. 427. 429. 430. 433. 434. 440. 441. 442. 443. 445. 446. 448. 454. 455. 456. 457. 459. 460. 461. 462. 463. 464. 468.
REPRESENT.ATIV E
LODGE
Higginsville J. M. Edwards, Adair ,., J. F. Waddell.,.,.................. Crescent Hill Geo. J. Moore , Composite R. E. Proctor , Williamstown C. O. Lee Belle T. J. Tynes. ~ , King Hill H. M. Lint......................... Ancient Craft R. H. Limpp....................... Billings G. W. Estes Queen City ........• F'. M. Lauel'....................... Pythagoras J. F. Black........................ East Prairie C. D. Mitcllell...................... Richland , .• W. C. Cowan Arcana W. L. Richardson.................. Marionville ........• W. A. McCullah .' Raytown .'.........• Wm. F. Hall , Christian W. D. Warren Jasper C. L. Hayzlett..................... Decatur , S. J. Douthitt..................... Carterville R. E. Frazier , Lowry City , .. S. E. Austin....................... Rosendale 'V. B. Wood Malden ., Ira M. Morris .. ,................... Charleston' J. B. Simpson ,.......... Appleton City ,. Eo H. Kavanaugh Cache , E. H. Johnston , , White Water J. F. Winter....................... Itaska R. C. Gans ,............ Gate of the Temple . L. E. Sheridan Samaritan Omer Hendrix ,........ Glenwood A. L.McGoldrick , New Madrid C. M. Barnes ~ .. .. .. . .. . . .. .. . .. . Winona ,.T. T. Loyd Macks Creek '" .. J. E. Eidson Wheeling Chas. Hawker Trowel , J. L. Estes gxcelsior D. G. Seibert. Burlington Henry -L. Rutherford., Anchor Wm. Lewerenz ,.............. West Gate '" A. G. Bittner ,..... Ivanhoe Kellogg. Smith , . . . . .. Schell City J. M. Darrow , ,........ Continental L. E. Saunders Hinton B. Ii'. Goslin ;.... Wallace ...........• 0. H. Cramer...................... Jonesburg G. h Wilson "., Hazelwood Dudley Vanderbilt ' Lambskin vVm. D. Moore..................... Caruthersville ,. J. W. Carmean..................... Santa Fe J. F. Flynt Clifton , O. A. Woodward ' , Aullville G. A. Klengenberg ". Red Oak D. E. Curry , '.' ,'. !
••••••••
123 PAID 19.08 18.30 22.38 18.24 16.92 12.30 24.48 23.88 13.30 19.20 24.36 16.50 15.60 21.84 21.84 19.26 17.50 24.72 23.22 25.38 20.76 23.45 18.30 16.68 20.82 6.00 14.46 6.00 20.28
9.72 19,7~
17.40 17.50 18.96' 19 ..~2 14.40 13.44 19.60 6.00 6.00 22.62 13.65 15.40 8.40 16.38 10.20 22.44 6.00 19.20 13.50 23.28 15.40 16.10
124 No.
[Sept.
Proceedings of the LODGE
470. Nodaway 471. Mineral 475. Golden 476. Mt. Hope 479. Rich Hill 480. Jewel 481. Marceline 482. Clintonville 483. Fairfax 484. Kirkwood 486. Cairo 487. Chilhowee 488. Lock Spring 489. Lakeville 491. Vandalia 497. Equality 499. Harmony 501. Buckner 503. Prairie Home 504. Platte City 505. Euclid 506. Lathrop 509. Van Buren 511. Skidmore 512. Webb City 513. Senath 517. Seligman 518.. Oriental 519. Crane 520. Clifton Heights 522. Gate City 523. Stinson 525. Cunningham 526. Wayne 527. Higbee 528. Conway 531. Lane's Prairie 532. Dexter 534. Columbia 535. Blackwell 536. Ingomar 538. 'Stella 539. Dawn 540. ,\Vinigan 541. Jacksonville 542. Ferguson 543. Mansfield 544. Algabil 545. Zalma 547. South Gate 548. Clinton 550. Rose Hill 553. Clarksburg
REPRESENTATIVE A.. L. Nash Jas. E. Terrier C. A. Masten Joseph Kuehls Albert Wiek :Chas. J. Breneit 1. J. Buster Thos. W. Snodgrass F. B. Cunningham Herman Schroeder J. P. Allen A. P. Franse S. L. Wade ..' A. U. Goodman Jno. W. Renner 路 W. B. Rice ',' G. E. Poole Chas. Henthorn H. L. Edwards Guy Coleman J. F. Alcorn ' J. O. Parman .T. R. Dawson J. O. Miller J. R. Hutchison O. II. Storey , W. B. Hammers , ' C. J. Blackburn ' J. S. Hemphill G. 1<'. Huffington .T. D. Rheem Alexander Adcock 'V. A. House , D. T. Freeman , Lee Thomason C. G. Ross J. A. Cook Chas. E. Clewe Andrew Brown J. B. Steinmetz J. A. Armstrong 1\-1. F. Weems ' James Alley , S. . Thrasher ' Ghas. Woods. Edward Tiffi!1 O. L. Robinett. vVm'. Wagner C. L. Ballinger Thomas M. Pratt .Tno. E. Clary G eo. S. Siddons Frank B. Clark
PAID
~
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . , .. . . . . . . . : . . . . . . . ,' . . . '. . . . . . . . . . . .
25.08 18.90 22.75 19.98 23;64 20.94 18.00 23.04 21.72 6.84 15.30 19.56 20.28 16.02 12.66 13.14 6.00 21.90 14.25 24.30 6.00 22.32 17.46 26.52 25.38 20.40 16.10 16.80 22.44 6.00 22.62 15.75 16.45 13.80 14.70 16.88 12.84 14.28 8.04 9.24 20.70 17.85 20.34 19.60 15.60 6.72 23.10 6.00 16.20 22.62 19.68 6.00 15.36
1918.]
Grand Lodge of IVlissouri. LODGE
REPRESENTATIVE'
125 PAID
555. Summerville' G. A. Mc'Corkill 20.82 ...... 558. Moscow Otto Karrenback................... 9.30 C. Ed\v. Overly 22.62 563. York 564. Jamesport vV. W. Bain 21.66 566. Maplewood J. P. Earney....................... 3.00 , 567. 'Miller J. L. Stinso!1 : _ · t., 21.35 568. Naylor Frank Reeves 11.90 570. Republic T. l~. Owen 21.18· 571. Hayti R. N. Brasher ..•...............•.. 18.78 572. Rutledge Ceo. S. Gragg 16.10 574. La Monte 1... F. W-ade , 18.06 W. B. Duckworth.................. 9.12 575. Easter ' Ora W·illows , 15.30 577. Ewing " F. M. Packard..................... 6.00 578. Forest Park Jno. l\Iartin ,., 14.28 581. Illmo 582. Koshkonong F. H. Harrison 18.20 584. Red Bird Chas. Brener , 12.78 vv. n.· Bernard ' 10.15 585. Shamrock J. R. Mott. 10.15 589. Grove Spring 590. Advance ' A. E. Asa ',' , , . . . . . . .. 15.42 J. D. Bradshaw 15.96 591. Barnett , J. M. Owen ; '. . .. 9.60 593. Union A. T. Keller 16.02 594. Blodgett ' J. E. Daugherty 16.50 596. Puxico J. R. Eisenhour.................... 19.25 59.7. Bosworth .' C. B. Acuff 10.14 598. Lead\vood J. C. -Westover 10.14 599. l<Jlvins ' Eo P. Clark, Jr.. ,................... 6.48 601. Clayton Ralph T. Finley 14.76 602. Acacia , ~ Thomas W. Botsford 17.85 605. Walker H. B. -Williams..................... 26.00 606. Craig S. A. Cunningham.,................ 21.35 607. Eminence .T. C. Eisenberg , 11.90 609. Warrenton H. E. Hulett....................... 14.28 610. Clark , 14.40 611. Centertown ........• Ira P. Hutson R. E. Hodges : 13.50 612. Mokane - 6.00 613. Wellston ...........• C. A. Tolin James ,Blake....................... 22.62 614. Mt. Washington , J. \"l. Ingrain , 14.64 615. Chaffee , , ,16.10 616. Marion ............• L .. S. Anderson ,' 22:62 617. Park ..............• L. S. Jolulson Jno.; H. Dalton .. .' , , 20.65 621. Anderson Geo. N. Vaden " , 11.20 623. Maple F. H. Eichler·,..................... 11.52 624. Owensville , Richard Callaghan , 19.62 625. Sheffield R. H. Robinson.................... 6.00 626. Magnolia Jas.W. West. '~ 22.62 630. East Gate D. 'T. Alderson ,:., ,.. 6.00 631. Tower Grove 632. Belgrade r. T. Gar·rett , .. , '. 11. 70 W. E . .Rose 10.15 637. Mountain VIew J . .J. Lucas........................ 6.00 638. TrIangle :W. H. Voss , ,.......... 6.00 639. Mizpah Chas. D. Henninger.,.............. 6.60 640. Jennings
\
No. 641. 642. 643. 644.
[Sept.
Proceedings of the
126 LODGE Trinity Benj. Franklin Northeast Grain Valley
PAID
REPRESENTATIVE
Donald Cormack................... 6.00 E. J. Medill........................ 6.00 J. R. Hammond 22,62 J. M. Potts 18.20
REPOR路T OF COMMITTEE ON ENTERTAINMENT. R. \V. Bro. A. J. O'Reilly presented report of Committee on Entertainment, which was adopted: St. Louis,
Sept~mber
18, 1918.
To the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge, A. F. & A. M., State of Missouri: Your Committee on Entertainment fraternally makes report on the expense of this session: Programmes ; $ 14.00 Badges 25.00' Hent of Hall (two days) 路 125.00 Care and Janitor Service.................................... 42.45 ;...... 10.00 O. W. Fallert, Organist, Assistant Tiler 10.00 Assistant Tiler 10.00 Stenographer for Credentials Committee 路......... 10.00 Mrs. E. S. McChesney .. " 16.00 Miss A. Altenbernd , f Cable to General Pershing....... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.57 Typewriter Material 7.75 Lee M. Edgar '. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.60 Piano 8.00 Cars '. . . 40.00 Unexpended Balance ' , 33.64
t
,
.
$358.01 Fraternally submitted, A. J. O'REILLY, Chairman.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON MASONIC RELIEF ASSOCIATION. To the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of A. F. & A. M., Missouri: Your committee appointed to attend the Twelfth Biennial Meeting of the Masonic Relief Association of the United States and Canada begs leave to report as follows: The sessions were held In Omaha, Nebraska, September 25, 26, .27, 1917. Most Worshipful Brothe'r Lou B. Windsor of Reed City, Michigan, President, presiding. The following Delegates from Missouri were present: Andrew J. O'Reilly of St. Louis, V. F. Boor .of Kansas City, W. H. Blackshaw of Hannibal, Wm. P. Davis, Jr. and A. B. Clinefelter of
1918.]
Grand Lodge of ~Missouri.
127
St. Joseph, Charle路s T, Marvin and J. Rautenstrauch of Sedalia, and Herman Batavia, Henry M. Schisler, Ernest Taylor and Louis Moller of St. Louis. I Representatives and Delegates were present from Arizona, Arlmnsas, Ontario, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Indiana, Illinois, Louisiana, Maryland, Missouri, Michigan, Montana, Mi'nnesota, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Oklahoma,Ohio, Oregon, Prince Edward's Island, Saskatchewan, Tennessee, Texas and West Virginia.
Missouri has been honored twice by this International Organization, the late Martin Collins of St. Louis having been President from 188!) to 1888, and Andrew J. O'Reilly of St. Louis having served as President for 1914 and 1915. The number 9f unworthy cases officially reported from August 31, 1916 to August 31, 1917 wete 215, and the total number of unworthy cases reported up to August 31, 1917 are 6,165. Brother W. L. Stocl<weH of North Dakota, composed the following verse and it was sung for the first time, so far as we know, with telling effect at a banquet given by the Omaha Lodges in honor of the visiting delegates, as an extra stanza to our National Hymn "America:" . "God save our gallant men, Send them safe home againGod save our men. Keep them victorious, Patient and chivalrous; They are so dear to usGod save our men." Charles Blasdell of Syracuse, N. Y., was elected President for the succeeding two years and it is with profound regret that we have to announce that he did not live路 to serve one full. year. Respectfully submitted, ANDREW J. O'REILLY, W. H. BLACKSHAW, V. F. BOOR.
PROPOSED
AMENDME~TS
TO BY-LAWS.
The following proposed Amendment to Section 250 of By-Laws was offered by Percy A. Budd: To amend Article 250 of the By-Laws by repealing the same and enacting in lieu thereof the following: Section 250. Re-storatfon EXltelle-d Masi禄n. An expelled Mason wishing to be restored must petition the Lodge which expelled him. His petition must be presented at a stated meeting and lie over to the next stated meeting and shall be referred to a committee of three, which committee shall make a report at the meeting set. The members of the Lodge shall be notified that said petition has been presented and will be acted on at the next stated meeting. The
128
[Sept.
Proceedings of the
vote shall be by ballot, and if it be unanimous, he shall be restored to his original Lodge membership and standing. If he fails to receive a unanimous vot.e, but receives a two-thirds vote, he shall be restored to good Masonic standing, but not to Lodge membership. If he receives less than a t.wo-thirds vote for restoration, he may then petition the Grand Lodge to be restored to good Masonic standing, setting out in his petition the fact that he had app.lied to and been rejected by the Lodge. An expelled Mason restored to good Masonic standing shall be given a certificate showing his good standing; provided, that a petition for restoration to his Lodge shall not be filed until after two years from the date of his expulsion. PERCY. A. BUDD.
Also to amend Section 111 of By-Laws-also offered by Percy A. Budd and others: ~
Proposition to amend Section 111 of Grand Lodge Laws was offered as follows:
By~
PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO SECTION 111, BY-LAWS. Be It Resolved, That Section 111 be amended by repealing said Section 111, and, in lieu thereof, adopting the following as such section: . . Section 111. Same. Any onc of the three degrees may be conferred upon not 路more than five candidates at 'one and the same time, at any special or stated Commu'nicatiori: Provided, that such candidates shall be received separately in the First, Second and Third Degrees and shall pass separately through the second section of the Third Degrec. Proyided, further, that before degrees :::hall be conferred on more than one candidate a dispensation from the Grand Master shall be obtained. PERCY A. BUDD, I THOMAS H. REYNOLDS, KELLOGG SMITH. Presented September 18, 1918.
Both refer~ed to
Jurisp~uden<;e .Com1?ittee.
REPORT OF COMMITTEE ON DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTERS' REPORT. VV. Bro. G. S. McLanahan, Chairman, presented the report, which was adopted: I St. Louis, Mo., September 17, 1918. Grand Lodge of A .. F. & A. M. in the State
To the Most ~Torshipful .of Missouri: Your Committee on the reports of District Deputy Grand Masters begs leave to submit the following report:
1918.]
129
Grand Lodge of Missouri.
There are on file communications from fifty of the fifty-nine Districts. The f~llowing nine Districts have not reported, either formally or informally: 5, 8, 17, 29, 34, 39, 41, 51 and 58. "The following seven Districts have reported informally by letter only: 18, 24, 27, 32, 46, 49 and 54. '
,
The most of these letter reports any value.
contain "
no
information
of
The remainder of the Districts have furnished more or less complete reports upon the form provided by the Grand Lodge. Some of these reports, however; are far from complete; some showing less 'than half of the Lodges within the District as having reported. Fourteen Districts have furnished complete reports, showing that every Lodge within the District has reported to the D. D. G. M. These fourteen are: 12, 15, 16, 21, 23, 26, 28, 30, 33, 35, 36, 45, 47 and 50. The following Districts have furnished reasonably good reports, but in each one or more Lodges have not reported, to-wit: 2, 4, 7, 10, 11, 22, 44, 56, 57 and 59. The committee desires to call especial attention to the reports of D. D. G. M. B. E. Bigger, District No. Fifteen, and D. D. G. M. Andrew J. O'Reilly, District No. Thirty-three. These two. reports are very complete and comprehensive, showing a report from every Lodge in the District. In addition to the information called for in the formal report, these ,deputies have added a narrative report showing the nature of the work done ' ...路 ithin the District during the past year. The report of D. D. G. M. Arthur L. Vlilliams, Twenty-second liistrict, is also in excellent form, although one Lodge did not report. Your committee has commented as above upon the reports made by D. D. G. Masters for the purpose of giving just praise where credit is due and calling attention to the shortcomings of some of the deputies. Your committee not.es with pleasure the reports. made by a number of the deputies that the Lodges within their Districts have contributed largely of their means t.o the Red Cross and Y. M. C. A., and have purchased Liberty Bonds and War Savings Stamps. This we believe to be a Masonic work, in adC\ition to which the securities thus obtained by the Lodges are excellent investments. A few of the deputies report that there has been a lack of Masonic interest during the past year; that the'war seems'to have absorbed all else. Your committee believes that there was never a time more favorable to the dissemination of Masonic truths than during the present crisis and that the fact that so many of our active" officers and members have been called to the Colors should be an incentive t.o those' of us who are not privileged so to serve our Country, to increase our efforts for the good of Freemasonry. Upon examining the form for the report of the D. D. G. M., the committee notes that there is no space prOVided for the, number of visits made by the D. D. G. M. to the Lodges in his District. We therefore recommend that the form be revised so as t.o requir'~
130
Proceedings of the
[Sept.
a report from the D. D. G. M. of the number of visits made and the number of Lodges visited. With the exceptions above noted, your committee believes, from its examination of the reports, that the majority of the D. D. G. Masters have performed their duties well, especially in view of the additional burdens fhat are thrown upon ali active men by the war, and most of the reports show unselfish attention to Masonic duties and ability of a marked degree. Respectfully submitted, G. S. McLANAHAN, Chairman, CHARLES BJ<JGGS, EDW ARD L. SPEER, ELMER L. LEGG.
REPORT OF COMMITT'EE ON CREDENTIALS. 'vV. Bro. Aug. F. Weeke made the following report of Committee on Credentials, which was adopted : St. Louis, September 18, 1918. To the Grand Lodge, A. 1<'. & A. M.: Your Committee on Credentials has the h'onor, to report that there are present: Out of the total of 643 Chartered Lodges there are Lodges represented-486. ' Worshipful l\lasters or their l)roxies 322 Senior \Vardens or their proxies ,.,., ,., , 99. ,Tunior Wardens or their proxies, , , 65. Total )86 In addition,. there are present: Past l\'Iasters 299 Grand Loclg'e Officers : 18 Past Grand Masters 18 District Deputy Grand Masters ! 45 District Lecturers .... '. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 6 Representa tiyes of other Grand Jurisdictions.................... 8 Disting~ished Visitor 1 Total
attendance Respectfully submitted, AUG. F. WEEKE, W. B. MASSEY, E. C. W. ORTMANN, D. A. BROWN, 1. F. STRYCKER, H. E. DOERNER.
' .. 881
1918. ]
Grand Lodge of Missouri.
131
APPOINTMENTS. The Grand Master-elect, 11. W. Bro.' John W. Bingham, announced the following appointments: GRAND GRAND GRAND GRAND GRAND GRAND GRAND GRAND GRAND GRAND GRAND GRAND GRAND GRAND GRAND
LECTURER .. : CHAPLAIN CHAPLAIN CHAPLAIN SENIOR DEACON JUNIOR DEACON SENIOR STEWARD JUNIOR STEWARD MARSHAL MARSHAL SWORD BEARER PURSUIVANT ORATOR ORATOR TILER
'
'
J. R. McLACHLAN. JOHN H. MILLER. ARTHUR MATHER. FRED V. LOOS. BERT S. LEE. JOSEPH S. McINTYRE. ORESTES MITCHELL. AUSTIN L. McRAE. W. W. MARTIN. CHAS. C. GARDNEH.. JOHN PICKARD. ANTHONY F. ITTNER. WM. F. WOODRUFF. J. E. DILLARD., HARRY A. KHUEGER.
INSTALLATION. M. VV. Bro. C. C. \iVoods, as Grand ,Master, and :M:. ,W. Bro. ,C. H. Briggs, as Grand Marshal, then proceeded to 111stall the following Grand Officers for the ensuing year: JOHN W. BINGHAM, Milan GRAND MASTER. JULIUS C. GARRELL, 'St. Louis DEPUTY GRAND MASTER. 'WM. F. JOHNSON, Boonville GRAND SENIOR WARDEN. O. A. LUCAS, Kansas City GRAND JUNIOR WARDEN. WM. A. HALL, St. Louis ........•.... GRA:'Il"D TREASURBR. JOHN R. PARSON, St. Louis GRAND SECRETARY.
APPOINTED OFFICERS. J. H.. McLACHLAN, Kahoka JOHN H. MILLER, Kansas City ARTHUR MATHER, St. Louis FRED V. LOOS. Liberty BERT S. LEE, Springfield .IOSEPH S. McINTYRE, St. Louis , ORESTES MITCHELL, St. Joseph AUSTIN L. McRAE, Rolla W. W. MARTIN, Doniphan CHAS. C. GARDNJo~R, Kirksville JOHN PICKARD. Columbia ANTHONY F. ITTNER, St. Louis WM. F. WOODRUFF, Kansas City J. E. DILLARD, St. Joseph HARRY A. KRUEGER, St. Louis
GRAND GRAND GR:\.ND GHAND GRAND GRAND GRAND GRAND GRAND GRAND GRAND GRAND GRAND ; GRAND GRAND
LECTURER. CHAPLAIN. CHAPLAIN. . CHAPLAIN. SENIOR DEACON. JUKIOR DEACON. SENIOR STEWARD. JUNIOR STEWARD. MARSHAL. MARSHAL. SWORD BEARER. PURSUIVANT. ORATOR. ORATOR. TILER.
132
Proceedings
of
[Sept.
the
CH1).IRMEN OF STANDING COMMITTEES. The Grand l\/Iastcr, M.W. Bro. John W. Bingham, ap.pointed the following Chairmen of Standing and Special Committees: JURISPRUDENCE APPEALS AND GRIEVANCES WAYS AND MEANS CREDENTIALS PAY ROLL CHARTERED LODGES LODGES U. D CHA.RITY REPORTS OF D. D. G. M's MASONIC BOARDS OF RELIEF RITUAL MASONIC HOME CORRESPONDgNCE OBITUARIES' AUDITING GRAND MASTER'S ADDRESS UNFINISHED BUSINESS .' TRANSPORTATION AND HOTELS
B. E. BIGGER NELSON A. FRANKLIN FRA~K R. JESSE WM. A. SOMMERS WALTER R. SHRODES CLARENCE L. ALEXANDER JAMES A. BOONE .JAMES P. TUCKER GEO. S. McLANAHAN ANDREW J. O'REILLY D. M. WILSON J. L. HECKENLIVELY CHARLES C. WOODS CORONA H. BRIGGS H. CLA Y PERKINS X]~NOPHON RYLAND EDWIN N]~LSON ,FRANK L. MAGOON
COMMITTEE ON APPEALS AND GRIEVANCES. A.
Ne]::;on A. Franldin, ChairI11an; ,v. L. Hamrick, Robert A. May, Burton, L. M. Haydon, Judge ,V. D. Moore, ,V. A. Higbee.
'v.
COMMITTEE ON JURISPRUDENCE. B. :K Bigger. Chairman; Julius R. Edwards, John 路C. Robertson, H. R. Kreeger, A'. B. Frey, Thos. F. Hurd, .r. 1\1. Carnahan.
SPECIAL CO~MITTEES. RECOGNITION OF FOR1'lIGN GRAND LODGES-vVm. F. Kuhn, J. Vi/. Boyd, C. C. Vi/oods, C. 11. Briggs, A. S. Houston, Tolman W. Cotton. MANUALS-John R. Par::;on, Geo. A. Mayhall, John H. Gundlach, \Vm. C. lIed:. RITUAL--D. M. "Yilson, R. R. Kreeger, John T. McLachlan, Frank R. Jesse, \Vm. A. Hall.
Short, J: R.
WAH. FUND COMMITTEE-Geo. S. McLanahan, C. H. Briggs, R. R. Kreeger,. C. C. Bigger, Jac~b Lampert. REVISION OF TRIAL CODE-Dorsey A. Jamison, Edw. Higbee, Arch A. Johnson, Karl M. Vetsburg'; Thad. B. Landon.
'Grand Lodge of Ai issouri.
1918. ]
133
LIVING PAST GRAND MASTERS OF THIS . JURISDICTION. XENOPHON RYIJAND, ALEXANDER M. DOCKERY, CHARLgS C. WOODS, ROBERT F.STEVENSON, JAMES W. BOYD, THEODORE BRACE, GEORGE E. "'\TALKER, .J OHN R. PARSON, ARTHUR M. HOUGH, DORSEY A. JAMISON, CORONA H. BRIGGS, JOS. C. FINAGIN, WM. F. KUHN,
A. S. Hous'rON, D. M. WILSON, .TOHN T. SHORT, HOBERT n. KREEGER, WM. A. HALL, CLAY C. BIGGER, ARCH A. JOHNSON, JACOB LAMPERT, V AN FREMONT BOOR, TOIJMAN W. COTTON, FRANK R. JESSE, EDWARD HIGBEE, WM. A. CLAH.K.
TRANSMISSION OF GRAND MASTER'S JEWEL. As soon as M. 路V,lor. Bro. John VV. Bingham had been conduct~d
to his station in the Grand East, 1\1. W. Brother Clark,. retiring Grand :Master, approached and pinned the Grand :Master's Jewel upon the breast of 1\11. VV. Brother Bingha~1, saymg: :My Dear Brother Bingham: It gives me the greatest pleasure to pin this official jewel upon your breast. Your past fidelity to the ideals of the Order and your faithful work as a Mason and a Grand Officer, assures us, if any assurance is needed, that during the coming y'ear, you will maintain this grand Masonic emblem unsullied and untarnished, and I may be permitted to express the hope that you' will wear this Grand Master's .Tewei with some of the pleasure and joy and some of the benefit it has given me to wear it during the past year. I congratulate you. (Applause.)
A fter the completion of the installation ceremonies, Grand 1\1aster Bingham turned to 1\1. W. Brother Clark and said: M. W.
Broth~r
Clark:
I take from your. hands this beautiful Grand Master's Jewel with mingled feelings of joy and fear-joy, for this is in very truth the proudest moment of my life; fear, lest I fail to measure up to the \ demands-most onerous and exacting of the great office into Which I have ju:::t been installed. But, brethren, I give you my word-t~e
路134
Proceedings of the .
0
[Sept.
word of a Master Mason-that all the ability I have shall be d.illgently devoted to the discl].arg路e of th.e duties of the office; and my strong desire is, that the record I make, may, if possible, equal, and if not, then may as nearly as possible u.tproach the records made by those illustrious men and Masons who have preceded me. Should such he my good fortune, I could then feel that not only had I worn the jew.el with pleasure to myself, but also with honor to the Fraternity.
PRESENTATION OF PAST GRAND MASTER'S JEWEL. NI. W. Brother C. H. Briggs, Installing Officer, on behalf of the (;rand Lodge, then presented to retiring Grand Master 'William A. Clark, a Past Grand Master's Jewel, saying: Most Worshipful Brother Clark: I CRn appreciate the fact that no doubt you have a feeling of路 comfort and relief that your term of office is ended and that now your mantle of authority and burden of duties has slipped from :\,'our shoulders to others. You have borne a heavy load this year. The cares and responsibilities of the office have been very great. You have borne those responsibilities in a way that has commanded the reverence and affection and respect of the brethren 'of the Craft. We all are proud of the record of your thoroughness, ea.rnestness and ability, with the display of the Masonic virtues in your administration made in this jurisdiction during the year. It afford:? me great pleasure now in the name of this Grand Lodge to have t.he privileg'e of presenting you this Past Grand Master's Jewel. Not for its intrinsic worth or yalue, but as a token of the esteem and affection in whiGh \\;e all hold you, and as a reminder of the re::::ponsibilities which you have borne so faithfUlly and honorably during the year just past. We have come to know you better. You have endeared yourself to our hearts and we will always look back with pleasure upon your administration as one of the brightest and most worthy ones in the history of this Grand Lodge. (Applause.)
Most Vvorshipful Brother Clark responded, as follows: Most Worshipful' Brother Briggs; Most Worshipful Grand Master . Bingham, and Brethren: I assure you that this past year a~ Grand Master has been a year of wonderful experiences, of interesting questions, and above all, of most happy associations. "\Vherevcr I have visited in the State, the brethren have received me with marked der"erence; In fact so marked that I \vas sometimes somewhat embarrassed. But I have had the opportunity of meeting men and Masons in Missouri whom I could never h-lve reached in any other way, and I feel that
1918. ]
Grand Lodge of Missouri.
135
it has been the most remarkH.ble year of my life. And while I have worked harder than any galley slave, I assure y,ou, brethren, that I have enjoyed every minute of it; and that I feel most grateful for all I have received, and shall cherish this beautiful jewel in memory of this year of hap!))' association with my brethren. Again, I thank you .
.PRINTING OF PROCEEDINGS. On motion the Grand Secretary was directed'to print for distribution the usual number of copies of the Proceedings of this session of the Grand Lodge.
MINUTES APPROVED. The Minutes of the several sessions of this date were read , by the Grand Secretary and approved by the Grand Lodge.
CLOSING. No further business being offered, at 5 :20 P. M. the M. VV. Grand Master, John VV. Bingham, closed the Ninety-Eighth Annual Communication of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of the State of 1v'Iissouri IN AMPLE FORM. "America," sung by the brethren as a closing ode. Prayer by R. \"1. and Rev. Bro. Arthur Mather, Grand Chaplain.
Grand, Secr,etary.
136
Proceedings of the
[Sept.
DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTERS. 1st Dlstrict-:.r. N. MARTIN, i<::ai10ka. 2d .. CHARLES BANKS, Kirksville. 3d. .JOHN SANTEE, Green City. 4th D. F. WARD, Trenton. 5th E. W. Pl1ENTISS,. Bethany. 6th . J. A. MARSH, Albany. . 7th JOSEPH E. REESE, Maryville. 8th H. S. TEARE, Oregon. 9th WM. A.PINER, St. Joseph. 10th H. W. SAUNDERS, Maysville. 11th BMSLEY C. JAMES, Gower. 12th RICHARD A. THARP, Wheeling. 13th E. W. TAYLER, Marceline. 14th WM. L. HAMRICK, Clarence. 15th B. E. BIGGER, Hannibal. 16th A. C. BEHRINGER, Louisiana. 17th 'rHOS; . F'.. HURD, ,l>aris. 18th T. H. WALTON, Higbee. 19th HORACE L. MANN, Brunswick. 20th WM. BAKr~R, Hale. 21st .T. P. TUCKER, Parkville. 22d SANFORD M. DANIBLS, Kansas City. 23d W M. '1'. VV ERNW AG, Lexington. 24th J. S. WILSON, Marshall. 25th i. M. E. SCHMIDT, Boonville. 26th H. L. WILSON,Columbia. . 27th' S. P. CUNNINGHAM, Mexico. 28th JNO. E. REEDS, Jonesburg. 29th J.W. POWELL, Elsberry. 30th II E. A. FLUESMEIER, Wright City. 31st A. T. DUMM, Jefferson City. 32d R. A. BREUER, Hermann. 33d MAX A. WITTMANN,St. Louis. 34th .JAMES F'. BLAlR, Belton. 35th R. B. CAMPBELL, Spruce. 36th A. M. HARLAN, Sedalia. 37th G. THORNTON JgNNINGS, Clinton. 38th H T. WRIGHT, Lebanon. 39th EDMUND J. KOCH, Rolla. 40th CH AS. E. PYLE, DeSoto. 41st .lNO. M. CHAMBERLIN, Bolivar. 42d H. H. FINLEY. Grep-nfield. 43d SAM B. VICKERS, Schell City. 44th B R. ELLIOTT, Carthage. 45th .J AMES M. MOORE, Ash Grovp-. 46th CARL A. SWENSON, Mountain Grove. 47th J. M. CARNAHAN, Van Buren. 48th W. B. MASSEY. Bonne Terre. 49th JAMES A. KINDER, Cape Girardeau. 50th .T AMES A. BOONE, Charleston. 51st T. R. R. ELY, Kennett. 52d .J. J. POSEY, Naylor. 53d . H. A. STEARNS, West Plains. 54th n. J. VAUGHAN, Ozark. 55th W. N. MARBUT, Mount Vernon. 56th W. A. PHl PPS.路 Neosho.. . 57th Ed J. TORRENCE, St. Louis, 4719 Oldenburg Ave. 58th B. F. BO\VLINE, Versailles. 59th ALLAN McDO\VELL HOYT, Independence.
1918.]
Grand Lodge of Missouri
137
DISTRICT LECTURERS. 1st Distrlct-P. O. SANSBERRY, Wyaconda. 2d .. C. C~ GARDNER, Kirksville. 3d ' JOHN SANTEE, Green City. 4th D. F. WARD, Trenton. 5th ..' E. W. PRENTISS, Bethany. 6th J. A. MARSH, Albany. . 7th JOSEPH E. REESE, Maryville. 8th H. S. TEARE, Oregon. 9th B. F. WATSON, St. Joseph. 10th .. H. W. SAUNDERS, Maysville. 11th EMSLEY C. JAMES, Gower. 12th RICHARD A. THARP, Wheeling. 13th E. W. TAYLER, Marceline. 14th 'VM. L. HAMRICK, Clarence. 15th B. E. BIGGER. Hannibal. 16th A. C. BEHRINGER, Louisiana. 17th THOS. F. HURD. Paris. 18th T. H. WALTON, Higbee. 19th HORACE L. MANN, Brunswick. • . 20th WM. BAKER. Hale. 21st H. C. NOLAND. Parkville. 22d CHAS. T. KORNBRODT, Kansas City. 23d WM. T. WERNW AG, Lexington. 24th J. S. WILSON. Marshall. 25th S. L. STITES, Pilot Grove. 26th J. A. OLIVER. Columbia. 27th S. P. CUNNINGHAM. Mexico. 28th JOHN E. REEDS. Jonesburg. 29th J. W. POWELL. Elsberry. 30th E. A. FLUESMEIER. Wright City. 31st _A. T. DUMM, Jefferson C'ity. 32d R. A. BREUER, Hermann. 33d J. H. CRANFILL. St. Louis. 34th JAMES F. BLAIR, Belton. 35th R. B. CAMPBELL. Spruce. 36th A. M. HARLAN. Sedalia. 37th G. THORNTON JENNINGS, Clinton. 38th H. T. WRIGHT, Lebanon. 39th EDMUND J. KOCH. Rolla. 40th CHAS. E. PYLE, DeSoto. 41st, JNO. M. CHAMBERLIN, Bolivar. 42d H. H. FINLEY. Greenfield. 43d SAM B. VICKERS, Schell City. 44th W. D. RICHARDSON, Webb City. 45th GEO. W. CUST~R, Springfield. 46th CARL A. SWENSON. Mountain Grove. 47th J. M. CARNAHAN, Van Buren. 48th W. n. MASSEY. Bonne Terre. 49th JAMES A. KINDER. Cape Girardeau. SOth JAMES A. BOONE. Charleston. 'Slst VIRGIL P. ADAMS. Hayti. 52d J. J. POSEY. Naylor. D3d H. A. STEARNS. West Plains. 54th G. J. VAUGHAN, Ozark. 5Sth 'V. N. MARBUT, Mount Vernon. 56th W. A. PHIPPS. Neosho. 57th ED J. TORRENGE, St. Louis. 4719 Oldenburg Ave. 58th B. F. BOWLINB. Versailles. 69th ALLAN McDOWELL HOYT, Independence.
138
Proceedings of the
[Sept.
NEW ·LODGES. CHARTERli:D SEPTEMBER 18, 1918. Lodge Apollo Clever
No. Location County District 529 .St. Louis ,33d 645 Clever......... Christian ..........•...... 54th
ANNUAL
COMMUNICATION~ 1919.
The Ninety-ninth Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge will be held in St. Louis, commencing at 10 o'clock on the morning of the third Tuesday, viz., the sixteenth day of September, 1919.
1918.] .
Grand Loige of Missouri.
139
AMENDMENT TO BY.LAWS ADOPTED. Th~ following Amendment to the Grand Lodge By-Laws was ~dopted during the session, 1918:
To a.mend Section 27, subdivision (f) of the Grand Lodge ByLaws, by striking out said section and Inserting in lieu thereof the following: (I) Jurisprudence. A Committee on Jurisprudence, to whom shall be referred the decisions of" the Grand Master, all propositions to amend the Constitution and By-Laws of the Grand Lodge, 'and no such amendment shall be voted upon by the Grand Lodge until such amendments have been so referred and reported upon by said committee, and other questions of law. as directed by the Grand Lodge. Said committee shall meet on Monday preceding the opening of the Grand Lodge in .the city where the same is to bQ held, and the members of said committee shall be paid the usual mileage and per diem for their services while in attendance upon said committee. It shall be the duty of the Grand Master to transmit to said committee, on or before the first day of the meeting of said committee, the decisions to be reported by him in his annual address.
,STANDING RESOLUTIONS. ADOPTED (1918). WhereftH, It was the evident purpose of this Grand Lodge in amending Section 182 of the By-Laws, to prohibit Freemasons from signing petitions for dramshop licenses, as pointed out by the Grand Master in his address: Therefore, Be It Resol"ed, That it is the sense of this Grand 'Lodge that Section 182, as amended, should be construed in accordance with the evident purpose of the Grand Lodge in adopting it; that is, that Freemasons . shall not sign petitions for dramshop licenses.
C. H. BRIGGS, WM. F. KUHN, A. M. HOUGH.
CHANGE IN DISTRICT. Resolved. That Lane's Prairle Lodge. No. 531, A. F. & A. M., located at Lois, Maries County, be transferred from the Fitty-eighth to the Thirty-ninth District. J. A. COOK. /'
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ProceedinrJS of the
[Sept.
RESOLUTIONS-CANNOT AMEND BY-LAWS. Your committee is of the opinion that our law should not, and legally cannot, be altered, amended or repealed by resolution, and recommends that all i'esolutions that seek or tend to change the Grand Lodge By-Laws should be ruled out of order, and th~ practice discontinued. A. T. DUMM, 1". R. JESSg, R. R. KREEGER, B. E. BIGGER, ARCH A. JOHNSON, Committee on Jurisprudence. " 1
PROPOSED AMEN:PMENTS TO BY-LAWS. The following proposed Amendments were submitted dur路ing the session, and under the law go over to the next annu~l Communication: Amendment to Section 93 proposed by Jurisprudence Committee: To amend Section 93 of the Grand Lodge By-Laws by striking out said section, and adopting the following in lieu thereof: Section 93. Fnilurf' to Eh~<'t Officers: Should any Lodge fail to elect Its officers at the time prescribed in Its By-Laws, the Grand Master may, upon the payment of a fee of five dollars to the Grand Secretary for the Grand Lodge, grant a dispensation to hold an election as soon thereafter as may be practicable, and all resident members shall be notified of the time set for such election. Be It Itesol"~d, Thl:\-t Section 111 be am~nded by repealing said Section 111, and, in lieu thereof, adopting the following as such section. Section 111. Snme. Anyone of the three degrees may be conferred upon not more than five candidates at one and the same time, at any special or stated Communication; pro,'ided, that such candidates shall be received separately in the First, Second and Third Degrees and shall pass separately through the second section of the Th ird Degree. Pro"ided, further, that before degrees shall be conferred on more than one candidate a dispensation from the Grand Master shall be obtained. ' PERCY A. BUDD, THOS. H. REYNOLDS, KELLOGG SMITH.
To amend Article 15, Section 165 of the Grand Lodge By-Laws by adding section to be known as Section 165-A: Section 165-A. Requests to confer degrees to a Lodge of another Gran.d Jurisdiction from a Lodge of this Grand JurisdIction, or to a Lodge of this Grand Jurisdiction from a Lodge of another Grand Jurisdiction, shall be made through the Grand Master. G. A. SAMPLE, L. C. BEAZLEY, J. W. INGRAM, M. H. STUBBLEFIELD, T. C. DAVIS.
1918.]
Grand Lodge of
~1 issouri.
141
To amend Section 176 of the Grand Lodge By-Laws by striking out the word' "a,11" in the fourth line of said section,1 and inserting in lieu thereof the 'words "majority of," so that, when so amended, said se<:ltion shall .read as follows: Section 176. "\VaiH"r of Concurrent .Jurisdiction. A Lodge outside of such city or town shall not receive a petition for the degrees from a person residing in the territory of such concurrent jurisdiction, until a majority of the Lodges in such city or town shall have waived jurisdiction. . WM. A. MEYERS, W. H. HEIDORN, C. A. TOLIN. To amend Section 182 of the By-Laws of this Grand Lodge by striking out Section 182, and adopting the following' in lieu thereof: , Section 182. Same.' No Lodge in this jurisdiction shall receive a petition for the degrees or for affiliation from any person who is engaged in the manufacture or sale of intoxicating liquors as a beverage, either as a distiller, brewer, brewery agent, wholesale or retail liquor dealer or a salesman. or agent, superintendent or foreman for such manufacturer or dealer, a Haloon-keeper, bartender or one who serves intoxicating' liquors as a vocation, or of anyone who is engaged in any capacity in the handling, manufacturing,or selling of intoxicating liquors as a beverage or otherwise, or of one who signs a petition for a dramshoplicense. Nor shall any Freemason recommend or sign any petition or application for a dramshop license. Any Freemason who may, hereafter, begin such business, or do or perform, or be engaged in any of the acts forbidden in this section, shall be expelled; (and any Lo<lge receiv. ing a petition of or retaining in memb.ership a person so barred, and which shall fail to expel such person when informed of his ineligibility, shall have its charter suspended or arrested by the Grand Master). .ARCH A. JOHNSON. To amend Section 250 of the Grand Lodge By-Laws by repealing the same, and enacting in lieu thereof the following: Section 250. Restoration EXIJelJed }llnson. An expelled Mason: wishing to be restored, must petition the Lodge which expelled him. His petition must be presented at a stated meeting, and lie over to the next stated meeting, and shall be referred to a committee of three, which committee shall make a report at路 the meeting set. The members of the Lodge shall be notified that said petition has been presented and will be acted on at the next stated meeting. 'l'he vote shall be by ballot, and if it be unanimous, he shall be restored to his original Lodge membership and standing. If he fails to receive a unanimous vote, but receives a two-thirds vote, he shall be restored to good Masonic standing, but not to Lodge membership. If he receives less than a two-thirds vote for restoration, he may then petition the Grand Lodge to be restored to good Masonic standing, setting out in his petition the fact that he had applied to and been rejected by the Lodge. An expelled Mason, restored to good Masonic standing, shall be given a certificate, showing his good standing; pro"ided, that a petition for restoration to his Lodge, shall not be filed until after two years from the date of his expulsion. PERCY A. BUDD.
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Proceedings of the
[Sept.
STANDING RESOLUTIONS. Standing Resolutions, Amendments to Grand Lodge ByLaws and Approved Decisions, adopted since the publication of Book of Constitutions (1908). MASONIC BOARDS OF RELIEF.
By R. W. Brother D. B. 'Farnsworth: BOARDS OF RELIEF-REPORTS OF. We respectfully recommend that the reports of these Boards, in the future, include a detailed statement of their disbursements, that the Craft may more fully understand and know their work, and be encouraged to emulate them; also that all of their receipts be given in more detail. [Proceedings 1909, page 99.J MASONIC_ HOME' IMPROVEMENT FUND. Resolved, That the special contribution called for in the report of the Committee on the Masonic Home for the improvement of the Home and grounds of fifty cents per annum for four years from each member of the Fraternity under. the Jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge, except those whose regular annual dues are remitted, and which was levied upon our members by the Grand Lodge by the adoption of the recommendations of said Committee. be collected from the members by the Secretaries of. the respective Lodges and remitted to the Grand Secretary at the same time and in the same manner as the regular annual dues; but that a separate statement of the same be made in the Annual Report of the Lodges in a column provided for that purpose, setting out the amount collected and remitted and the amount delinquent, if any. WM. M. WILLIAMS, XENOPHON RYLAND, WM. F. KtlHN. A. C. STEWART. [Proceedings 1912, page 72.J. SMOKING PROHIBITED. "Resolve.d, That'smoking in the Lodge room of each and every subordinate Lodge in this Grand Jurisdiction is hereby strictly prohibited, not only during the time of conferring of Degrees, but at all Urnes while the Lodge is in session for any purpose." It shall- be the duty of the Master of every Lodge to see to the enforcement of this prohibition. [Proceedings 1913, page 162.]
By M. W. Brothers Kuhn.and Wells:
1918.]
Grand Lodge of Missouri
143
FUNERALS OF GRAND OFFICERS. Resolved, That in the event of the death of one or more of the first six officers of the Grand Lodge or of a Past Grand Master the obsequies shall be conducted by the Grand Lodge, arid the expenses of the remaining first six Grand Officers, one Grand Chttplain and the Past Grand Masters in attendance shall bA paid by the Grand Lodge. [Proceedings 1913, page 87.]
ByM. W. Brother A. M. Hough:, DIGEST OF LAWS. Resolved, That the Grand Secretary shall arrange and append to each publication of the Grand Lodge Proceedtngs, on pages by I themselves, all amended By-Laws and the standing resolutions that are in force, and approved decisions under the head of "Standing Resolutions," and annually add thereto such as may thereafter be adopted, and omit such as may be'repealed. [Proceedings 1913, pag~ 86.] BOARDS OF
R~LIEF-BURIAL LOT.
Resolved, That whereas an emergency exists in St. Louis in the matter of lack of space in the present burial lot. Therefore, Be It Resolved, That the St. Louis Masonic Board of Relief is hereby authorized to purchase a suitable burial lot in St. Louis, in the name of the Grand Lodge, A. F. & A. M., and pay for the same out of the contributions from the various Lodges in the City of St. Louis as prescribed by Sectio'n 59 of the By-Laws of this Grand Lodge. [Proceedings 1913. page 137.] Resolved, That the burial lots located in Valhalla Cemetery, St. Louis County, purchased and paid for by the Lodges in the City of St. Louis, in the name of the Grand Lodge, A. F. & A. M. of Missouri, be, and the same are hereby, placed in charge of the St. Louis Masonic' Board of Relief, in the same manner .as the lots so owned in Bellefontaine Cemetery, and that said Board of Relief shall direct who may be buried therein. A. J. O'REILLY, LOUIS MOLLER, WM. SESSINGHA US. [Proceedings 1914, page 195.] BORDER LEGISLATION. That a Lodge In a border State desiring to receive lactltlons from and confer Degrees upon resld,ents of Missouri shall first obtain waivers from the Lodge In this State ha'Vlng jurlsdletlon and from the Grand ltlaster of Missouri. .
[Proceedings 1913, page 142.]
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Proceedings of the
[Sept.
/
APPLICATIONS FOR CHARITY. Resolved, That'all,applications for the consideration of the Committee on Charity be made in writing by the officers of the Lodge upon路 whose membership the applicant bases his or her claim, and that all su~h applications be filed with the Grand Secretary at l~ast twenty days before the meeting of the Grand Lodge at which the matter is to be considered. A. J. O'REILLY, D. W. GOSNELL, ROY E. STEPHENS. [Proceedings 1914, page 157.]
By M.W. Brother Van F. Boor: GRAND MASTERS' CONFERENCE-,-REPRESENTATIVES. Resolved, That the Grand Master, and one of the Grand Lodge Officers selected by the Grand Master, be and are hereby designated as the authorized representatives of this Grand Lodge to attend all future Conferences of, Grand' Masters, or other similar conventions or meetings .having for their object the betterment of the laws, rules and regulations governing the Craft, especially having in view more uniform rituals and lectures, both written and unwritte:n, and the cultivation of closer fraternal relations between the Grand Jur'isdictions of the world. [Proceedings 1914, page 173.]
By M. W. Brother A. M.. Hongh: BALLOT-FOR GRAND LODGE OFFICERS. Resolved, That in the election of Grand Lodge Officers. that the vote shall be taken by ballot, and that each officer and member of the Grand Lodge present shall cast one vote and no more; provided, that the vote may be taken by Lodges, if demanded, by the repre.sentatives of ten Lodges. [Proceedings 1914, page 1.92.] REPORTS OF COMMITTEES-WHEN PRESENTED. Resolved. That the Reports of the Committees on Jurisprudence, AppeaJs and Grievances, and Ways and Means shall be presented to the Grand Lodge for consideration not later than the second day of the session of the Grand Lodge. [Proceedings 1914, page 192.] Resolved, That all reports to the Grand Lodge, except the address of the Most \-Vorshipful Grand Master, which have been printed prior to the session of the Grand Lodge, shall be presented and not read, and ordered printed in the Annual Proceedings. [Proceedings 1914, page 192.]
145
Grand Lodge of Missouri
191&.]
IMPOSTORS-LIST OF. Resolved, That all Masonic Lodges in Missouri not under control of' a Board of Retief be furnished with an alphabetical list of names
of impostors with: identification means, regular reports, together with a letter suggesting plans and ways of handling applications for reUet. D. B. FARNSWORTH,. R. W. MILLER, A. W. BAKER, G. W. EARLY. [Proceedings 1914, page 156.] G~O.
WASHINGTON MASONIC NAT'I...
M~MORIAL
ASS'N.
Resolved, First, That this Grand Lodge approves and endorses the George Washington Masonic National Memorial Association and the proposition to erect a Masonic Temple as a Memorial to George Washington, the Freemason, in the City of Alexandria, Virginia, and hereby enrolls itself as a me~ber of said Association; Second, That the sum of One Hundred ($100) Dollars is hereby appropriated and directed to be paid 'to' the Treasurer of said Association in order to place this Grand Lodge upon the Charter Roll of Honor; Third, That it recommends to such individual Freemasons and Masonic Bodies in its Jurisdiction as are willing to do so, to become Charter Roll of Honor members of said Association by making like contributions; Fourth, That it hereby authorizes the Grand Master of this Grand Lodge to attend the meeting of said Association in the capacity of Representative of this Grand Lodge at and to represent it at such meetings, arid when he shall be unable to be present, or for other cause shall deem it best to do so, from time to time, to appoint an appr~priate representative to attend the me.etings of said Association for this Grand Lodge, and to represent it at such meetings In his place and stead. Fraternally submitted, A. C. STEWART, JACOB LAMPERT, WM. F. KUHM, ORESTES MITCHELL. [Proceedings 1914, page 129.J
By M. W. Brother A. M. Hough: AMENDMENTS-TIME FOR. Re~olved,
That 'all propositions to amend or change the Constitution, By-Laws Or Proceedings of this Grand Lodge shall be set for consideration on the morning of the second day of the session, at an hour to be fixed at the session of the first day of the Grand Lodge. [Proceedings 1912, page 36.J
By M. W. Brother Wm路. F. Kuhn:
o
146
Proceedings of the
[Sept.
PRINTING REPORT ON CORRESPONDENCE. Resolved, That the Grand Secretary be authorized to print a sufficient number of advance copies of the report of the Committee on Correspondence to supply each member in attendance at the Grand Lodge with one copy. [Proceedings 1912, page 40.]
By M. W. Brother Wm. F. Kuhn: CHANGE OF NAME OF "INFIRMARY" TO "HOSPITAL." I
Resolved, That the "Infirmary Building" be now and forever known as the "Hospital" of the Masonic Home of Missouri, and that wherever the word "Lnfirmary" appears in these reports it be stricken out and the word "Hospital" be inserted in lieu thereof. [Proceedings 1912, page 62.] APPEALS AND GRIEVANCES COMMITTEE-APPEARANCE BEFORE. Whereas, It is necessary for the Committee on Appeals and Grievances to prepare and submit to the Grand Lodge written opinions in causes coming before them, and In order to do this, each member ot said Committee must of necessity familiarize himself with the record and testimony in each case; Therefore, Be It Resolved, That all arguments before said Committee on any matter before it shaJl be made on Monday preceding the opening of the Grand Lodge, and no one shall be heard after that date. CAMPBELL WELLS, CLAY C. BIGGER, JOHN T. SHORT, o R. R. KREEGER, WM. F. KUHN. [Proceedings 1915, page 65.] MASONIC HOME FUNDS-PAYMENT OF. Resolved, That路 the Grand Secretary and Grand Treasurer be hereby directed to turn over to the Treasurer of the Board of Directors of the Masonic Home weekly, as collected, all moneys due the Horne. [Proceedings 1915, page 147.] LEGISLATION-PROPOSED BY MEMBERS ONLY. Resolved, That no matter be received in writing, such as Amend~ ments to the By-Laws, new By-Laws, Resolutions, Motions, or any similar matters demanding the action of the Grand Lodge, except it b~ signed by two (2) members of this Grand Lodge who give their Rank and number of the Lodge to which they belong. [Proceedings 1915; page 162.]
1918. ]
.147
Grand Lodge of Il1issouri CONFERRING
DEGREES-FORBIDDEN.
Resolved, That the Grand Lodge does hereby forbid any Lodge to confer rpore than one of the degr('es or sections of a degree at one and the same time, in the same Lodge. The Grand Master is hereby empowered to enforce this edict. WM. F. KUHN. [Proceedings 1916, page 95.] EXEMPLIFICATION OF WORK-AT GRAND LODGE. Resolved, That, at the annual sessions of the Grand Lodge the work shall be exemplified under the direction of the R. W. Grand Lecturer, and for such purposes he shall select officers from active Masters and District Lecturers present. Provided, that officers of the Grand Lodge may officiate in their respective stations if they so de- . sire. O. A. LUCAS, WM. F. KUHN, BERT S. LEE, WM. F. JOHNSON, JNO. W. BINGHAM. [Proceedings 1916, page 58.] QUESTIONS REFERRED TO D.
rio
G. M.'s.
Whereas, Questions arise from time to time on which the official decision of the Grand Master is desired" in the co~sideration of which the Craft and the Grand Master are entitled to the benefit of the advice and experience of the D. D. G. M. of the District inwhlch the question may arise; therefore, be it Resolved, That such questions shall first be submitted to the D. D. G. M. of the District, who shall forward it to the Grand Master, to. gether with his opinion and suggestions thereon in writing. EDWARD HIGBEE, JACOB LAMPERT. [Proceedings 1916, page 59.] LEGISLATION PROPOSED-MUST BE DEBATED BY LODGES. Be It Resolved, That the Grand Secretary instruct the Lodges that all matter coming before the Grand Lodge for action be read and debated at some meeting of the 'Lodge at least one month before the. Annual Meeting of the Grand Lodge at which) the subject is to be taken up for action.· This order to be sent each Lodge with a copy of the Grand Lodge Proceedings. WM. SESSINGHAUS, P. M., No. 267, JAMES W .. BOYD, P. G. M., ,") LOUIS MOLLER, P. M., No. 445. [Proceedings 1916, page 80.]
.
• Appears in printed proceedings following Third Day.-J.
R~ P.
MANUAL-LIBRARY FORM. Be lit Resolved, By the Grand Lodge, A. F. and A. M. of Missouri, That the Grand Secretary be, and he is hereby authorized and directed
148
Proceedings of, the
[Sept.
to have printed sufficient copies of the Manl,lal in library form to be sold at the price of one dollar ($1.00) per volume to supply the demand of the Craft. ARCH A. JOHNSON, No. 271. [Proceedings 1916, page 80.] DISTRICTS-CHANGE OF. Be It Resolved,. By the Grand Lodge, A. F. and A. M. of Missouri, That Crane Lodge No. 519, located at Crane,Mo.; Galena Lodge No. 515, located at Galena, Mo., and Reeds Spring Lodge No. 280, located at'Reeds Spring, Mo.,~ be taken from the Fifty-fifth Masonic District and placed in the Fifty-fourth Masonic District on account of the geographical location of said Lodges, and to more equally app~rtion the work of the District Lecturers. of said Districts; there being at . the present time seventeen Lodges in the Fifty-fifth District and but seven in the Fifty-fourth District. ARCH A. JOHNSON, No., 271, JOHN R. PARSON, No. 267. [Proceedings 1916, page 80.] RECEPTION COMMITTEE-GHAND LODGE. Resolved, That the Grand Master, prior to the opening of the Grand Lodge, shall appoint a Committee consisting of three, to be known as the ¡'Committee on Visitors". It shall be the duty of this Committee to receive, introduce, accommodate and look after the entertainment of visiting Grand and Past Grand Officers of Sister Grand Jurisdictions. All expenses incurred by this Committee shall be presented to the Committee on Ways and Means. WM. F. KUHN, DORSEY A. JAMISON, WM. A. HALL. [Proceeding-s.1917, page 269.]
SECTIQN 182. 'Vhereas, 'It was the evident purpose of this Grand Lodge in amending Section 182 of the By-Laws, to prohibit Freemasons from signing petitions for dram-shop licenses, as pointed out by the Grand :Master in his address; Therefore, Be It Resolved, That it is' the sense of this Grand â&#x20AC;˘ Lodge that Section 182, as amended; should be construed in accordance with the evidc.nt purpose of the Grand Lodge in adopting it; that is, that Freemasons shall not sign petitions for dram-shop licenses. C. H. BRIGGS, WM. :F'. KUHN, A. M. HOUGH. [Proceedings 1918, page . .f ... ] DISTRICTS-CHANGE OF. Resolved, That Lane's Prairie Lodge No. 531, A. F. & A. M., located at Lois, Maries County, be transferred from the Fifty-eighth to the Thirty-ninth District. J. A. COOK. [Proceedings 1918, page .... ]
路 1918.]
Grand Lodge of Missouri
, 149
RESOLUTIONS-CAN NOT. AMEND BY -LA WS. Your .committee is of the opinion that our law should not, and legally can not, be altered, amended or repealed by r1:)solution, and recommends that all resolutions that seek or tend to change the Grand Lodge By-Laws should be ruled out of order, and the practice discontinued. COMMITTEE ON JURISPRUDENCE (1918). [Proceedings 1918, page .... ]
AMENDMENTS TO BY-LAWS ADOPTED. By R. 路W. Brother J os. S. McIntyre: LODGES OF INSTRUCTION. Additional section to Article III. Article III, Section 27. Lodges of instruetloi.. "In each Masonic District having a city with ten or more Lodges, the District Deputy Grand Master and District Lecturer, together with three other members to be selected from three separate Lodges in such District by the District Lecturer, shall constitute a Committee on Masonic Instruction. Such committee may adopt rules for its government, and shall, for a period of at least four months each year, hold a Lodge of Instruction once a week and appoint such assistant instructors as may 'be necessary, subject to the approval of the District Lecturer, who shall be the authority in the work and have sole charge of teaching it, as provided in Sec. 23 of this article,. and the .Grand Lecturer may, upon the recommendation of the District Lecturer, appoint some one, or more, suitable Brothers to be present and superintend the instruction on such occasions as, for any reason, the District Lecturer may be unable to be present himself; and, in support of such Lodge of Instruction, the Lodges voluntarily participating in such Masonic instruction may contribute annually to the support thereof such sums as may be necessary to pay the actual expenses of such Lodges of Instruction." [Proceedings 1910, pages 52, 89 and 105.] I
By M. W. Brothers Wm. F. Kuhn and Campbell Wells: SALARY OF GRAND SECRETARY AND GRAND LECTURER. \
Section 12 (paragraph p) and Section 13 (paragraph d). Strike out the words "Twenty-seven Hundred and Fifty" ($2,750.00) in Section 12, paragraph (p) an'd insert in lieu thereof the words "Three Thousand ($3,000.00)," so that the section when amended, shall .read: Sec. 12 (p). The salary of the Grand Secretary shall be Three Thousand Dollars ($3,000.00) per annum, payable monthly. Strike out the words "Twenty-sev'en' Hundred and Fifty" ($2,750.00) in Section 13 (paragraph d) and insert in lieu thereof the words "Twenty-five Hundred" ($.2,500,00), and add thereto after the words "per annum" the wOl'ds "and tr:lveling eXp4'DSeS not exe('ed/Ing Se'\'en Hundred Dollul's ($700.00) ller. nnnum, audited .nnd," so that the se'ction, when amended, shall read:
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Proceedings of the
[Sept.
Sec. 13 (d) The compensation of the Grand Lecturer shall be Twenty-five Hundred Dollars ($2,500.00) per annum and traveling expenses not exceeding Seven Hundred Dollars ($700.00) per annum, audited and payable monthly. [Proceedings 1911, pages 92-93 and 149.] \
By R. W. Brother J. E. Thompson: D~BTS.
Section 50. Contract Debts. A Lodge shall not be permitted' to contract debts for any purpose until sufficient available assets are on hand to meet the payment thereof. Provided, a Lodge may be premitted to contract debts for the purpose of building a hall or purchasing a cemetery, with the consent and' approval of the Grand Master. Lodges obtaining permission to contract debts for building a hall or purchasing a cemetery shall at once notify the Grand Secretary of the amount of the debt incurred, the security given, and when the' debt matures. When any debt contracted, as herein provided, shall have been paid, the Lodge shall notify the Grand Secretary of such payment. A record of such debts and the payment thereof shall be kept in the office of the Grand Secretary. [Proceedings 1917, page 267.]
By M. W. Brothers D. A. Jamison and Wm. A. Hall: TRIALS. To amend Sec. 200 of the Grand Lodge By-Laws by the insertion of the word "the" in lieu and in place of the letter "a" between the words "for the violation, of" and the word ."moral" in the third line of said section, and by the insertion of the word "or"in lieu of the word "and'" between the words, "moral" and "Masonic law" in' the third line of said section, so that said section when so amended shall read as follows: Sec. 200. Offenses. A Mason may be proceeded against by trial, as hereinafter provided, for the violation of the Moral or Masonlo law. [Proceedings 1913, page 143.]
By R. W. Brothers Jos. S. McIntyre and 'rhos. F. Hurd: To amend Sec. 211, Art. XVIII, of the Grand Lodge By-Laws. Be It enacted that Art..XVIII and Sec. 211 of the By-Laws of the Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons ,of the State of Missouri be altered by striking out in the fourth and fifth lines thereof the language "residing in the Jurisdiction," so that said section路 as amended shall read as follows: Sec. 211. '1'lme and Notice of Trial. When a charge is preferred the Master shall appoint the time of trial and shall cause the accused to be notified as hereinafter provided; he shall also cause all members of the Lodge to be notified of the time of the trial. . [Proceedings 1913, page 143.]
By M. W. Brother A. M. Hough:
1918:]
Grand Lodge of Missouri
151
RECEIPT ,FOR DUES-FORM OF. To amend Section 12 of the Grand Lodge By-Laws by striking out clause (0) of said section and inserting the following in lieu thereof: (0) He shall prepare a uniform Receipt for Dues, of thin economy ledger paper, not more than two and one-half inches 'by four Inches, with stub, to contain the printed autograph of the Grand Secretary and a facsimile of the Seal of the Grand Lodge, A. F. & A. M. of Missouri, which shall be used by- all the Lodges in this Jurisdiction. Each receipt shall bear an impression of the Seal of the Lodge. The receipts shall be furnished to the Lodges at actual cost, including postage. The receipt shall be sUbstantially in the following form: No
No $
Date Rec'd of For
Lodge No A. F. & A. M. ............... . Mo., , 19 .. . Received of Bro.......... .. . Dollars, for . dues to 19 .. . Secretary. :.19 .. (Signature of Member.) ' ..... , This is to certify that. ., " .Lodge, No . A. F. & A. M., is a legally charterE:d Lodge under _ the jurit'ldiction of the Grand Lodge A. F. & A. M. of Missouri. ...................â&#x20AC;˘. (Seal) Grand Secretary. [Proceedings 1914, pages 107-205.] PETITION-CANNOT BE WITHDRAWN.
To amend Section No. 102 by' striking out the last line of this section, which reads: "and may be withdrawn at any time before it is reported on," and inserting the words: "and cannot be withdrawn after the petition has been referred to the Committee." . So ,that the section, when amended, shall read: Section 102. Some. A petition for the degrees or membership ,must be presented at a stated meeting of the Lodge and cannot be withdrawn after the petition has been referred to the Committee. WI\{. F. KUHN, R. F. STEVENSON. [Proceedings 1914, page 157.] EMPLOYMENT BUREAU. We respectfully submit the following as an additional section to the Grand Lodge By-Laws to be known as Section 59a: Sec. 59a, Art. V. Employment Bureau. In cities where there are twenty or more Lodges, each Lodge shall appoint or elect one of its members, who shall constitute a General Employment Bureau, whose duty shall be to aid unemployed members to secure employment. Such Bureau shall adopt rules for its government; and each Lodge in such city shall contribute the sum of (25c) twenty-five cents per capita per annum to the Employment Bureau, such contribution to be calculated on, and payable with, the annual Grand Lodge returns. Provided, That no contributions shall be called for
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when the amount on hand exceeds the sum of ($3,000.00) three thousand dollars. . Such Bureau shall employ a Secretary and maintain a permanent office, where. applicants may ap,ply for employment. ED N. KAERCHER, V. H; F ALKENHAINER, JOHN HERZOG, F. E. SCHUTZE. [Proceedings 1914, pages 68-205.] GRAND LODGE ANNUAL DUES-INCREASE OF. I
•
Section 67. Annunl Dues. Every Chartered Lodge shall pay annually to the Grand Lo.dge the sum of one dollar and seventy-five cents ($1.75) for each Master Mason reported in the annual returns. One dollar and twenty-five cents ($1.25) of this sum shall be used for the support of the Masonic Home, unless otherwise ordered by the Grand Lodge. If any Lodge shall collect from a suspended member dues,. for the non-payment of which he shall have been suspended, such Lodge shall pay to the Grand Lodge the sum of one dollar and seventy-five cents ($1.75) for each year's dues so collected, if not previously accounted for. W. F. KUHN. [Proceedings 1915, page 122.] MILEAGE AND PER DIEM.
Section 69. lUilenge nn(l Per Diem. The Past Grand Masters, Grand Officers, District Deputy Grand' Masters, District Lecturers and one Representative from each Lodge, and the Chairman of each Standing Committee, who do not draw mileage and per diem in any other capacity, shall be' paid the sum of three dollars ($3.00) for each day they may be in actual attendance upon the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge. and three cents per mile for each mile necessarily traveled in going to and returning therefrom; provided, that no Representative shall receive €ither mileage or per diem unless all dues' from his Lodge to the Grand Lodge have been paid by August 1st, and no Representative shall receive more than one-fifth of the sum paid by his Lodge for that year as dues, and no one shall receive mileage and per diem in a double capacity. ,[Proceedings 1917, page 267.] GRAND LODGE MEETING-TIME AND PLACE OF. Section 1. ,,'fme nnd Place Of•. An Annual Communication of this Grand Lodge shall be held in the City of St. Louis on the third Tuesday of September, in each year, commencing at 10 o'clock A. M.; provided, that the place of meeting for the next Annual Communication may be changed when a majority of the Grand Lodge shall deem it expedient. [Proceedings 1915, page 128.] BY-LAWS-ADDING SECTION. *Sectioh263. B}" Adding Section. Any additional section not conflicting with the provisions of these By-Laws, which may be desired,
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shall be proposed in writing, and on being read on two several days, if concurred in by two-thirds of the votes present, shall become a part of these By-Laws. [Proceedings 1915, page 128.] .' *Subject to Sec. 27 (1918).
BY-LA WS-ALTERATION OR REPEAL. Section 264. By AU':rntlon or Reltenl. Any alteration or proposition to amend or repeal any of the foregoing By-Laws shall be reduced to writing and read on one day of the session and be published in the proceedings of this Grand Lodge and lie over until the next Annual Communication, and shatl be again read; and, if approved by the majority of the members present, shall become a part of the By-Laws of this Grand Lodge. . [Proceedings 1915, page 129.] *Sub~ect to Sec. 27' (1918).
VISITORS-DOCUMENT ARY EVIDENCE. Section 197. Visitors. A Lodge shall not admit a visitor who shall be unable to establish by documentary evidence and examination, or by 'personal voucher, as provided in Section 196, that he hails from some Lodge in this Jurisdiction or within the Jurisdiction of a Grand Lodge recognized by the Grand Lodg,e of Missouri. Documentary evidence shall be receipts for dues for tlle current year, or a certificate of good standing, either of which shall bear the seal of the Lodge and the signature of the Secretary of the Lodge. together with the signature of the Grand Secretary of the, Grand Jurisdiction from which a visitor may hail; or a diploma, duly authenticated by the signat;ure of the Grand Secretary of the Grand Jurisdiction, together with the seal thereof. All of which designates a Lodge under the jurisdiction of a Grand Lodge recognized by the Grand Lodge of Missouri. And such "Documentary Evidence" shall bear date not more than twelve months last past. . [Proceedings 1915, page 129.] BALLOT-ALL MUST VOTE. Section 123. All Must Vote. When a ballot is taken. all members of the Lodge present must vote, except as provided in Section 121. [Proceedings 1915, page 129.] ENDOWMENT FUND. Section 262%, Article XX. Endowinent }<'und. - The Endowment Fund, now under the control and,management of the Board of Directors of the Masonic Home, and all additions thereto hereafter made, shall continue to be a permanent fund to help support and maintain said Home, and that only the earnings and income therefrom can be used for that purpose. [Proceedings 1915, page .130.]
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DUES-;-FAILURE TO PAY. Section 152. Non-Payment of Dues. When a member shall fail to' pay his dues withln three months after the same become due, it shall be the duty of the Secretary to notify him of such delinquency by delivering to him, in person, a bill for such indebtedness, or by maiHng the same to him at his last known place of residence. Should the delinquent refuse or fail to pay his dues on or before the next stated communication of the Lodge,after the issuance of such notice, it shall be the duty of the Secretary to notify the Master of sllch failure, who shall, in open Lodge, order a notice to be giv"en the delinquent by the Secretary, requiring him to appear at a specified subsequent stated communication to show cause why he should not be suspended for non-payment of dues. -[Proceedings 1916, page 95.]
REVISION OF BY-LAWS GOVERNING APPEALS. Section 221. Testimony. The testimony of all resident Masons who can attend the Lodge shall be given orally in open Lodge at the trial. .All such oral testimony shall be taken in shorthand, when practicable. and when riot practicable, the Master shall appoint a B"rother who shall reduce said oral testimony to writing at the time it is given. Section 231. TrI~ls. All Masonic trials shall be in the Lodge of the highest degree. to which the accused has attained, and both the accuser and the accused, even though the accused may not be in good standing, may be¡ present in person during the hearing of the evidence and thea"rgument, and may be represented by counsel in good Masonic standing. [Pro~eedings 1917, page 268.] Section 240. Appeals, How Token. and may be in the following form:
t
Appeals must be in writing,
............ , Mo., To the Worshipful Master, Wardens and Brethren of Lodge, No , A. F. & A. M.:
,,19
. .
Brethren, I, ..................â&#x20AC;˘ ~ Maste"r Mason and member of ............ ~ ., Lodge, No , do declare upon my honor as a Mason that I feel aggrieved by your judgment in the case of .................................. and, to the end that justice may be done in the matter, do take an appeal to the Grand Lodge for the following reasons: First, Second, Appellant. Section 241. Time for Appeal. All appeals shall be filed with the Secretary of the Lodge within thirty (30) days after the trial and judgment, and not afterwards.
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Section 242. Notice of Appeal. The appellant shall, at the time he flIes said appeal with the Secretary, also file with him a notice in writing to the opposite party that he has appealed to the Grand Lodge, which notice shall be served on the opposite party by the Secretary. or some one designated by him within five (5) days, and the notice with the manner of service endorsed thereon shall be made a part of record of appeal. Service, except as to time, shall be as provided in Sections 213 arid 214, Grand Lodge By-laws. Section 243. PerfectlnA" and TransmlttlnA" Record. When an appeal and notice shall be filed with the Secretary, he shall endorse thereon the date' of filing and immediately send the same to the Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge, together w(ih a certified copy of the charges, notice to' the accused, his answer or plea, date of the trial, the result of 路the ballot on the questions of guilt and punishment. Within sixty (liO) days after the trial, the appellant shall file with the Secretary of the Lodge a statement of the substantive 'facts proven' at the trial, together with notice to the opposite party of such filing.. Said statement shall not set out the testimony of witnesses by questions and answers except 'where a review is sought on a ruling of the Trial Master on a particular question or answer objected to or moved to be stricken out during the trial or except as hereinafter provided, hut shall include a brief recital in narrative form of the substance of the evidence offeJ:ed or introduced in the trial. Within ten (10) days after the filing of suc~ statement and notice with the Secretary, the opposite party may file objections to such statement. Such objections shall only point out; First, the omission from such statement of any ultimate fact or of some document or the substance th.ereof proven or offered at such trial, and, second, that there has been included in such statement a substantive fact, document or the substance thereof which was not proven or offered at, such trial. If no objections are filed to such statement within ten (10) days, or within such further time, not exceeding sixty (60) days after the trial, as the Trial Master may, for good cause shown, permit, then the statement filed by the appellant shall be taken as a true and correct statement of the facts proven at said trial. Section 243a. In any case where an appeal is sought to be perfected by filing the statement provided for .in Section 243" in lieu of the transcript of the evidence, to which statement objection is flIed by the opposite party in which it is alleged that said statement does not contain a fair statement of the facts proven in saidtfase, the Trial Master shall, if in his opinion justice demands, order a transcript of that portion of the testimony in controversy to be made at the expense of the trial Lodge, which said transcript, together with the statement and objections thereto, shall be made a part of the record in said case. , Section 243b. Nothing contained in Section 243 hereof shall be deemed to prahl-bit the appellant' in any case from perfecting such appeal by filing with the Secretary of the Lodge. in lieu of such statement provideq in Section 243, a transcript which shall contain a true copy of all the testimony in the case, together with notice to the opposite party of such filing, provided, that the opposite party in such case shall have the privilege of examining and noting objections to such transcript within ten (10) days after its filing and before the
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/
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same is sent to the said Grand Secretary, and provided further, that where an appellant filed a transcript of the testimony in the case, in lieu of the statement provided for in Section 243, the cost of such t,ranscript shall be paid by the party ordering same. Section 244. Objections to Transcript. Where a full tran~cript, in lieu of statement, is filed with the Secretary, together with notice to the opposite party, objections thereto may be made by the opposite party within the time and in the manner provided in Section 243 for filing objections to the'sta'tement of facts proven at the trial. Section 244a, Cost of Appeal. The cost of the first appeal shall be charged to the subordinate Lodge; the cost of sUbsequent appeals shall be paid as directed by the Grand Lodge at the session at which such appeals are heard and may be charged against the appellant, the local Lodge, or, if circumstances justify, paid by the Grand Lodge. [Proceedings 1916, page 91.] Section 246. Appeal in Grand Lodge. On receipt of the transscript, 'as provided in Section 243, by the Grand Secretary, the Grand Lodge shall be possessed of the case, and shall determine the same on the record so transmitted. The appellant, in the absence of fraud, may dismiss his appeal at' any time before the meeting of the Grand Lodge. [Proceedings.1917, pag-e 268:] PETITION FOR MEMBERSHIP. Section .132. Petition for l\lembershlp DlmH ~ll1st Accompany. A Lodge 'shall not entertain a petition for membership, unless the 'same is acco~panied by a Dimit or some other documentary evidence of good standing of the applicant, as provided in Sections .157 and 157b. [Proceedings 1917, pagc 267.] J
TRANSFER OF MEMBERSHIP. Amend the Grand Lodge By-Laws by adding two new sections to be known as Sections 157a and 157b, which said sections are as follows:
o
Section 157a. Same. Any brother of this Grand Jurisdiction, free from charges, desiring to transfer his membership to a Lodge of any' "recognized" Grand Jurisdiction, which has a law substantially . the same, shall have the right to petition such Lodge for membership, which petition shall be accompanied by a Certificate of Good'Standing from his Lodge; showing him to be not delinquent in the payment of dues to the Lodge in which he 'holds membership, which Certificate shall be substantially in form set forth in Section 157 of the Grand Lodge By-Laws. Should the Lodge so receiving his petition elect him to membership, it shall be the duty of the Secretary of the Lodge so electing him to notify under seal of the Lodge, his former Lodge of such election and request said Lodge to forward his Dimit to the Lodge so 'electing him. Upon
1918:]
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of
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157
the receipt of such notice his former Lodge shall grant him a Dimit and forward the same to路 the Secretary of the Lodge electing him. In case of his rejection by the Lodge to which he applied, his membership shall remain in his former Lodge granting the certificate. If the Certificate of Good Standing herein provided for is not used within Three Months from the date thereof, it shall become null and void and of no effect. Provided, however, that this section shall in nowise be construed so as to impair the right of voluntary and absolute dimission. Section 157b. Some. Any brother of any other "recognized" Grand Jurisdiction, free from charges, desiring to transfer his membership to any Lodge in this Grand .Jurisdiction shall have the right to petition such Lodge for membership, which petition shall be accompanied by a Certificate of Good Standing from his Lodge, showing him to be not delinquent in the payment of dues to the Lodge in which he holds membership. Should the Lodge so receiving his petition elect him to membership, it shall be the duty of the Secretary of the Lodge so electing him to notify under seal of the Lodge, his former Lodge of such election and request said Lodge to forward his Dimit to the Lodge so electing him. The Dimit shall be filed with the Secretary of the Lodge so electing him and his membership therein shall date from the time his former Lodge granted his Dimit. It shall be the duty of the petitioner to pay his former Lodge such dues as he may be indebted to such Lodge. [Proceedings 1917, page 267.] ~To amend Section 27, subdivision (f) of the Grand Lodge ByLaws, by striking out said section and inserting in lieu thereof the following: '(f) Jurisprudence. A Committee on Jurisprudence, to whom shall be referred the decisions of the Grand Master, all propositions to all}end the' Constitution and By-Laws of the Grand Lodge, and no such amendment shall be voted upon by the Grand Lodge . until such amendments have been so referred and reported upon by said Committee, and other questions of law as directed by the Grand Lodge. Said Committee shall meet on Monday .precedin~ the opening of the Grand Lodge in the city where the same is to be held, and the members of said Committee shall be paid the usual mileage and pen diem for their services while in attendance upon said Committee. It shall be the duty of the Grand Master to transmit to said Committee, on or before the first day of the meeting of said Committee, the decis'ions to be reported by him in his annual address. [Proceedings 1918, page .... ]
APPROVED DECISIONS. STATUS OF CANDIDATE. 1.
Moberly Lodge, No. 344.
On March 23, 1903; we gave a Brother the E. A. Degree, he having been previously elected and paid the fee for the three degrees. He was in the grocery business at that time, but sold out and went to traveling for a grocery firm. At present he trave!s for a whisky house
/
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and now wishes to take the two other degrees. 'He commenced to travel for the whisky house three or four months before the last session of the Grand Lodge. Question. Can we give the degrees to him? Answer. In my opinion the Brother is not barred from advancement and your Lodge can confer the remaining degrees upon him. Section 182 forbids a Lodge to receive the petition of a person engaged in the business of salesman for a wholesale liquor house, after the enactment of the section. As your Lodge, long before the enactment of the section, received his petition and conferred the Entered Apprentice Degree upon him, your Lodg'e does not in this case come within the prohibition of the section. The second part of Section 182 states that any Mason who shall thereafter engage in this business shall be expelled. As the Brother 'was in the business before the enactment of the section, he does not come within its provisions. His status is fixed and determined by the law in force at the time he was elected to receive the degrees. Section 182, so far as he is concerned; prohibits him from engaging In the business thereafter; but as he was already in the business when the section was enacted, and a Mason, he is not barred thereby. [Proceedings 1909, pages 20 and 151.] 2.
.
Clifton Heights Lodge, No. 520.
The stable foreman for a brewery company has petitioned this Lodge for'the degrees., Question. Is it possible for him to become a member? Answer. Section 182, of the By-Laws, adopted by the Grand Lodge at Its last session, relating to intoxicating liquors, contains no language that prohibits a Lodge from receiving a petition from' a stable foreman for ~ brewery company. My judgment is that it would not be safe for the Grand Master to add any other occupations than those specified therein. A strict interpretation of thIs section, which is in derogation of the previous laws and practice of the Grand Lodge, in my opinion, does not prohibit the reception of the petition; it should take the usual course. [Pr~ceedlngs 1909, pages 20 and 151.] 3.
Weston Lodge, No. 53.
Question. Under the ,law as passed by the Grand Lodge ot" Missouri, can a man who is superintendent or foreman of a brewery become a Mason? . Answer. Section 182 of our Grand Lodge By-Laws contains this language: "No Lod'ge shall r~ceive the petition .for the degrees or aJtiliation from any person who is engaged in the manufacture or sale of intoxicating liquors as a beverage, either as distiller, brewer," etc. Not being able to determine how a person can be "superintendent or foreman of a brewery" and not be eng'aged in the manufacture of intoxicating liquor as a beverage, it is my opinion that a person o,ccupying such a position cannot legally be made a Mason. [Proceedings 1909, pages 21 and 151.]
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MANUFACTURE OF LIQUOR. â&#x20AC;˘.
Robert Burns Lodge, No. 496.
Two Brethren residing in the jurisdiction of this Lodge, both of whom are in good Masonic standing, are thinking of investing in what. they call a joint stock company fo-r the purpose of manufacturing whisky. They are to receive their part of the dividends in whisky manufactured by their company. They do not want to violate the Masonic laws, and contend that this would not make them dealers: .Question. Would they be permitted to engage in this class of business? Answer. Section 182, so far as it relates to the question you ask, contains this language: "No Lodge shall receive a petition for the degrees or for affiliation from any person who is engaged in the' manufacture of intoxicating liquors as a beverage, either as a distiller, wholesale liqJ.l0r dealer or salesman for such dealer. Any Mason who may hereafter begin such business shall be expelled." This section, in my opinion,' deprives Master Masons of the privilege of retaining membership in any Lodge in this State if they engage in the sale or manufacture of intoxicating liquors as a beverage, after the date of its final adoption, October I,. 1908. Therefo,re, they must be expelled if they engage in this business under the conditions stated. [Proceedings 1909, pages 21-22 and 151.] STATUS OF CANDIDATE. 5.
Mount Zion Lodge, No. 327.
Question. Does Section 182 apply to a man employed in the State Beer Inspection Department? Answer. It does not, provided he is not financially interested In the manufacture or sale of intoxicants in any-other way than as a State official. [Proceedings 1909, pages 22 and 151.] 16. From a member of Whitewater Lodge, No. 417, we have the following seven questions: (a) Is running a distillery sufficient grounds for expulsion? Answer. It is not, if started before October 1st, 1908. It is, .,if started since September 30th, 1908. (b) Is selling liquor in one to five-gallon lots grounds for expulsion? Answer. Yes. (c) Is selling liquor illegally (say' under a gallon and down to a half-pint, when not licensed to sell less than a gallon, and also to minors), sufficient grounds for expulsion? Answer. Yes. (d) Is lying to a brother Master Mason sufficient grounds for expulsion? . Answer. Yes; and he is equally guilty if he lies to a profane. (e) . If a certified copy of the testimony of a Master Mason In a court of record can be produced, and the fact proven by a numb.er
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[Sept:
of good citizens that that testimony was false, is that sufficient grounds for expulsion? Answer. Yes: (f) Is it un-Masonic to report a brother Master Mason to the grand jury, or proper authorities, for violations of the civil law? Answer. No. (g) If one dimits and engages in the saloon business, has the lodge granting the dimit the authority to proceed against such person? Answer. Yes. 17. Inquiry from Elvins Lodge. No. 599: "About three years ago three members of this lodge' endorsed the notes for a party who 'was in business as an agent for a brewery. In this way they'became responsible and have had to pay quite a sum of money, and the party having no other assets but this brewery. agency, these three brethren took over the agency and have been conducting it since that time; that is, they have hired some'one to run it for- them, and one of them is looking after the business details of the concern." Question. Can a lodge give them six months or a year in which to get out'of the business? In case the brethren refuse to quit what proceedings would you advise? Answen. A lodge cannot give its members any length of time in which to wind up such a business, no matter how they happened to get into it. Prefer charges against them instanter, establish the facts as stated, and then expel them from the lodge. [Proceedings 1914, pages 22, 23, 170.] ..
STATUS OF CANDIDATE, 7.
Osborn Lodge, No. 317.
A candidate made application, was elected, and received the Entered Apprentice Degree about five years since; but for good reasons did not present himself for the Fellow-Craft ,Degree until about a month ago. "Ve asked him to make new application, which he did, and in the ballot was rejected. Si-veral Brethren claimed this was 'not the proper way to handle the case. Question. How should this, case have been handled? Answer. Your Lodge should not have required the Brother who received the First Degree long before our present Grand Lodge laws were adopted to petition for advancement. He has a right to receive the Second and Third Degrees on standing an examination satisfactory to the Brethren. 'l'he law of 1892, under which he was elected, gives him this right and demands nothing further from him than to stand such examination. No further balloting is necessary. 'Vhen he shows suitable proficiency in the First Degree, he should be given the Second, provided, of course, that no objection is made, in WhiCh case charges would have to be preferred as provided by Grand Lodge laws. . [Proceedings 1909, pages 23 and 151.]
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1918. ]
161
LIST OF CANDIDATES. 9. Anthony F. Ittner, Secretary Missouri Lodge, No. l. "Under a resolution of the Lodge, I have as Secretary for the past six months published lists of candidates for the Mysteries and for affiliation, to be balloted on at the several stated meetings, for the information of the members. Some of our members have contended that this pr~etice is in violation of Section 183, of the Grand Lodge laws, which says that a Lodge shall not pUblish the fact that it has conferred or will confer any Masonic Degree upon anyone." (a) Question. Is this in violation of Section 183? • Answer. You should not give the names of the petitioners in the monthly Lodge circulars. [Proceedings 1909, page 151.] (b) Question. Does Section 158 only refer to dimits issued by Lodges in the State of Missouri? . In other words, is a Mason from another jurisdiction who presents a dimit less than a year old and by virtue of which it was intended that he should enjoy Masonic privileges for a certain period after its issue, entitled to visit a Lodge in this jurisdiction, or does he cease to enjoy all Masonic privileges in this" jurisdiction, except the right to petition, the same as if the dimit had been issued in this State? Answer. Sections 158 and 197, when considered together, deny the privilege of visiting to all who are not members of some Lodge in this State or of a Lodge within the jurisdiction of a Grand Lodge recognized by the Grand Lodge of Missouri. [Proceedings 1909, page 24.] ·Disapproved; sec Report of Jurisprudence Committee on Ques. tion a, as follows: We are also of the opinion that the pUblication of lists of candidates to be' balloted upon for membership, for the information of the members, by Missouri Lodge, No. I, is not in violation of Section 183, of the By-Laws, and we disapprove of the decision of the Grand Master in Subdivision a, Decision No.9. •
REMISSION OF DUES. 10.
Grand Secretary John R. Parson.
A Lodge whose returns were received today, August 11th, deducts $8.75 for seven members whose dues were remitted July 31, 1909. Question. Is this permissible under Sections 67 and 68? Answer. Lodges must pay on the basi's of their membership on the 30th day of June, as that is the day fixed by Section 68; and no other day cain be' substituted.. Consequently, they owe the Grand Lodge $1.25 for each member whose dues 'were remitted July 31st. [Proceedings 1909, pages 25 and 151.]
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[Sept.
7. Salem Lodge, No. 225" asked, if a Lodge could remit the whole or any part of a member's dues except for inability to pay, and does the age or occupation of the member make any difference? Answer. No, to both interrogatories. [Proceedings 1914, pages 20, 170.]
RES'l'ORATION AFTER CONSOLIDATION. 11.
Barnett Lodge, No. 591.
A former member of Euclid Lodge, A. F. & A. M., of 'Yersaiiies, Morgan County, Missouri, being suspended by t.hat Lodge for nonpayment of dues, and that Lodge later being absorbed by Versailles Lodge, No. 117, is now ready and willing to pay all back dues, and desires to be reinstated and affiliate with some Lodge and, since he now resides in the jurisdiction of Barnett Lodge, No. 591, states that it is his desire to affiliate with 'this Lodge. Question. 'vVh,at would be the prope'r course for him to pursue in order that he might again become a Mason in good standing? Answer. He will have to make application to Versailles Lodge, No. 117, for reinstate~en't. 'rhat Lodge, under Section 85,. ,of the Grand Lodge laws of 1892, by union of the two Lodges, acquired all of the members, property and debts due by, 'oi¡ to Euclid Lodge.' Versailles Lodge has jurisdiction over him, no matter where he resides, and no other Lodge can restore him to good Masonic standing or accept the dues for the non-payment of which he was -suspended. . [Proceedings 1909, pages 25 and 15!.]
NON-AFFILIATE MAY NOT PREFER CHARGES., 12.
Southwest Lodge, No. 466.
An applicant for affiliation was balloted on and rejected. He then preferred charges against S., the Brother who objected to the receiving of his petition. It is my desire and also that of Brother S. that you send some one from a different Lodge to preside during the trial, which will' be 'held at our next regular Communication, September 25, 1909. . Answer. There does not appear, ,under ,the conditions stated by you, to be any necessity for sending anyone to preside at the contemplated trial in your Lodge, as the charges, if preferred by a nonaffiliated Mason, should not be entertained. The Master should deâ&#x20AC;˘ cline to permit the Lodge to act on them in 'any way. Section 205, of our Grand Lodge By-Laws, provides that any Master-:rvlason in good standing may prefer charges; and Section 158 states that the holder of a dimit is not 'entitled to any Masonic privileges except to petition for affiliation, also that "he ceases to be a
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Mason in good standing from the date of, his dimit." A dimitted Mason, not being. in good standing, is noterititled to the privileges of Section 205. You must therefore, as above stated, refuse to entertain'the charges. [Proceedings 1909, pages ?5 and 151.] TO PROCURE A DIMIT. 13.
Four Mile Lodge, No. 212.
Since the annual dues are now payable in advance, if a Brother asks for a dimit in January, or any other month of the first six of the. year. without having yet paid his dues for that current year, should, the Lodge require that Brother to pay his full year's dues before granting him the dimit, or charge him for only the pro rata, or, if he has paid his dues for the current year and asks for a dimit before the year is out, should the Lodge return him the PI'O rata? This question is now up to this Lodge to decide. Answer. Section 146 requires dues to be paid annually in advance. Section 156 provides for the issuing of dimits when all the conditions specified therein shall have been c'omplied with; the first being "when a member whose dues' are fully paid, etc," It: therefore, follows that'il. Brother desiring to dlmit must not be in arrears for any pOl'tlon of th'e current year's dues before a dimit can be granted him; whether he makes application in the first or tenth month of the year is of no consequence. The Lodge is under no legal obligation to return to him any portion of the amount paid in order to obtain a dimit, except as provided by Section 157. [Proceedings 1909, pages 26 and 151.] 14.
Social
Lodg~,
No. 266.
We have a member who wishes to transfer his member'ship to' the Lodge at New Florence, Mo. His dues amounting to $4.00 have not been paid. Two dollars of this amoun't is bac,k dues; that is, due to June I, 1909; and the other $2.00 is for dues in advance to June 1,.19'10.
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' ,
Question. How much shall we collect from the Brother before granting him a dimit? Ans~er. He must pay the full amount now due, $4.00, before he is entitled to a dimit or certificate of good standIng. When this indebtedness has been paid he can ,proceed as p'rovided by Section 157; and, .if elected to membership in the Lodge, he selects for affiliation, Social ,Lodg.e . should, retain oill y the portion of dues paid for the fiscal year' 1910 to the date of issuing the dimit, as provided by this section, and return the balance to him. , , [Proceedings' 1909, pages 26 and 151.]
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F AlLURE TO ADVANCE. 1. Held, 'I'hat an E. A. or F. C. who falls to apply for advancement within twelve months must. after that time, petition in regular form and the same course must be followed as for the Mysteries of Freemasonry. If rejected he cannot apply again for twelve months. [Proceedings 1910. page 23.]
REMISSION OF DUES. 2. Held, That since Lodge dues are payable January 1st, they are to be considered as having accrued and may therefore be remitted at any time during the yehr. [Proceedings 1910, page 23.]
CERTIFICATE OF GOOD STANDING-REFUND OF DUES. That a certificate of good Masonic standing' cannot be given unless dues are paid in full for the year, since it may possibly not be presented within three months; and if received. by another Lodge during that time, on notification, the Lodge granting certificate must refund to the Lodge receiving, the balance of dues to the end of the year. [Proce~dings 1910, page 23,]
SECRETARY MUST NOTIFY. 3. Held, That on suspension for non-payment of dues or any other cause, or on expulsion, the Secretary should at once notify the party, if he is not present at the time of sentence. [Proceedings 1910, pages 23 and 102.] 5. Section 58 of Article V reads: "In any city or town where two or more lodges are' situated, the Secretary of each lodge shall notify every lodge in said city or town of all petitions for'initiation or membership, and of all rejections," etc, As there was a difference of opinion as to WHli:N "the Secre-' tary of each Lodge shall notify every other Lodge," I decided, .for the benefit of several Kansas City Lodges, that the limit of time for so doing should not exceed seventy-two hours after each meeting. [Proceedings 1914, pages 20, 170.] FUNERAL OF A WOMAN. 5. Held, That the Worshipful Master, as such, has no authority to appoint a committee to attend the funeral of a woman-as representatives of Freemasonry. [Proceedings 1910, page 23.]
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ELECTION VOID.
6. Held, That a Brother elected to membership in a Lodge without a 'certificate of good standing, remains a member of the 'former Lodge, the election being null and void. [Proceedings 1910, page 23.] POLITICAL ISSUE.
7. Held (in a local option contest), That a Lodge, as such, has no right to take part in a question which may become a political issue. [Proceedings 1910, page 23.] STATUS OF CANDIDATE.
8. Held, That a clerk in the railway traffic department of a brewery may petition for the Mysteries of Freemasonry according to the law, as now recognized. [Procee'dings 1910, page 23.] LACK OF SEAL.
9. Held, That the absence of the Lodge seal' does not invalidate a Lodge dimit, the form being regular in other respects. [Proceedings 1910, page 23.]
DIM!T IN OLD FORM.
10. Held, That the action of a Lodge in granting a dimit, with privileges, in the old form, is illegal, null and void, and the dimit should be recalled. Nevertheless, if received already by another Lodge, the status should not be disturbed. â&#x20AC;˘ [Proceedings 1910, page 23.]
LODGE MEETING PROHIBITED.
11. Held, That a Subordinate Lodge cannot hold a meeting during the session of the Grand Lodge, since, while any Past Master may open the Lodge in the absence of the Master and Wardens, yet as every Past Master is a mem ber of the Grand Lodge, they are supposed to be in attendance as well as the Master and Wardens. [Proceedings 1910, pages 23 and 102.]
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[Sept.
DUET WHEN NO CHARGES. 1. Hazlewood Lodge, No. 459.-A charge of gross unmasonic conduct on the part of a Brother was in general circulation in the community, and seemed to be so' well founded that a committee was appointed by the Lodge to investigate. This committee called on the Brother for his statement and any explanation he desired to make in regard to his reported misconduct. ' He refused to affirm or deny the truth of the report and was evasive in his answers. From his demeaIJ.or and from other facts ascertained -by the committee, they became convinced his guilt. The Brother offered to take his dimit from the Lodge. He was square on the books and no formal charge had yet been pref~rred. The question asked, was whether, under the facts stated, the Brother was entitled to a dimit. I answered that on the face of the record, he was. But If the Lodge was satisfied of the Brother's guilt, charges should be preferred at once, the dimit withheld, the Brother tried, and, if found guilty, adequate punishment inflicted. ' [Proceedings 1911, page 18.]
of
RESIDENCE. 2. Higbee Lodge, No. 527.-A young man was born and reared at Higbee, where his parents still reside; he is employed in the United Sta,tes Railway Postal Service, running between St. Louis and Kansas City; he works three and is off duty four days of each week; while off duty he is usually at the home of his parents, which he has at all times called his home; he always votes at Higbee and has never exercised the right of citizenship elsewhere. Do the facts constitute the young man a resident within the jurisdiction of Higbee Lodge, and would the Lodge be justified in receiving his .petition for the Mysteries of Freemasonry? Answer.. Yes. [Proceedings 1911, page 18.]
PROFICIENCY-AS TO VOTING. S. The by-law requiring all newly-made Master Masons to pass a satisfactory proficiency examination in open lodge before being permitted to vote, hold office in the Lodge, or dimit, is more bewildering, and causes more questions to be asked than perhaps any other law on our records.
Section 123 says "all must vote" when a ballot is taken. Section 121, which says you shall not be permitted to vote until you have passed a satisfactory examination, and we have answered all inquirers that this section prohibiting voting, holding office and dimlttfng applies only' to Master Masons who have received their third degree since September, 1908. [Proceedings 1914, pages 19, 170.]
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NON-AFFILIATE MAY PETITION. 4. A Brother states that he dimitted from a Lodge and petitioned an'other Lodge in this State for affiliation. His petition was rejected and he remains unaffiliated. He desires to know. first. if he can petition ,a Lodge for affiliation, other than the Lodge nearest his place of residence. and second, can he visit 'Masonic Lodges while unaf-' 'filiated? Answer: First, an unaffiliated Master Mason may, petition any Lodg,e in the State for membership. and he is not confined to the Lodge nearest his place of residence; second, under the Grand Lodge By-Laws. as they now exist, there is no such thing as "a dimit with privileges." A non-affiliated Master Mason is not entitled,to any Masonic privileges ,except the mere right to petition for affiliation. [Proceedings 1911. page 18.]
- LODGE MAY NOT MEET.
5. A District Deputy Grand Master stated that a Lodge in his District was, expecting a large attendance of Brethren at a meeting to,~onfera, nuinber of degrees, and requested a Dispensation permitting the Lodge to meet in an opera house for the occasion, as, the Lodge room would 'be, inadequate to accommodate the crowd. .r declined to issue the Dispensation and held that a Chartered Lodge could not legally meet and work in a building, that had not _been dedicated, and consecrated to Masonic purposes. [Proceedings 1911, page 19.]
SUSPENSION MORE THAN ONE YEAR. 6. Plato Lodge. No. '469.~A Brother had been suspended for non-payment o'! dues for more than a year. He paid the dues he ,owed and petitioned the Lodge' for reinstatement; Was a committee of inyestigation required? Answer: Yes. .. [Proceedings 1911. page 19.]
F,AILURE TO INSTALL. 7. BlackWell Lodge, No. 535.....:....Ata meeting of the Lodge for the election of officers, the Senior Warde'n was elected Master and . thereafter was duly 'installed. The Senior' Warden-elect was not , present to be installed. Was the installation of the Master illegal,' he having been the Senior Warden during the preceding year and his succe'ssor in that office not having been installed? Answer: No. His installation as Master vacated the office of Senior 'Varden. and that office will remain vac'ant until the election and installation of , some' Brother therein. . [Proceedings 1911, page 19.]
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DRUG STORE SELLING LIQUOR.
,I
8. Adelphi 'Lodge, No. 355.-A member of the Lodge owns an interest in a drug store in which intoxicating liquors are sold as a beverage' illegally. This Brother does not have the management of the store and does not make the sales himself. He knows of the illegal sales of intoxicating liquor at the store and receives his share of the profits from the business. In so doing, does this. Brother violate the Masonic law? Answer: Yes. When he, as p'art . owner of the store, k,nowing of the illegal sales of路 intoxicating liquors therein, and so knowing, receives his share of the profits of the business, he violates the letter and spirit of Section 181 of the Grand Lodge By-Laws. [Proceedings 1911, page 19.] LIQUOR SELLING-WAITER. 9. D. D. G. Master Homer N. Lloyd of Clayton asks: "Is a man employed in a small hotel dining room and rathskeller, both of which are conveniently arranged in connection with a large saloon (which is the chief attraction and support of the 'whole works'), and whose duties are to serve meals at the usual time, and intoxicating liquors at any time when so requested by patrons, eligible?" Answer. No. He is barred by Section 182 of Article XVII. 11. From United Lodge, No.5, the following question comes: Is a Brother who is filling the position' of "waiter to the steward at the Elks' Club" violating the Masonic law? Answer. He is. There is no difference in serving behind an Elks' bar where intoxicating drinks may be gotten and in serving behind the bar of a regular saloon. You are warranted' in having charges preferred and in giving him a trial. [Proceedings 1914, pages 20, 21, 170.]
NON-PROFICIENT MASTER MASON. 3. Rose Hill, No. 550.-Question: Is a newly made Master Mason, who has not passed the examination on the Jirst section of the Degree of Master Mason, he having just received said degree and having had no opportunity for such examination, eligible to vote on the pe.tition of an applicant for degrees? Answer: No. [Proceedings 191i, page 18.]
DUES-INCREASE OF. 1. Urich Lodge, No. 286, increased its dues by an amendment of its By-Laws from $3 to $3.50 a year for a period of four years . to cover the assessment levied by the Grand Lodge of 50 cents a year for four years on the members for a fund to make betterments and improvements' at the Home, and asked if that was lawful. We answered that their dues could be legally increased in that manner and for that purpose and that at the end of the fourth year,
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and without further legislation, their dues would automaticallY' drop from $3.~O to $3 a year. [Proceedings 1914, pages 19, 170.] CANDIDATE-MAY SOLICIT. 2. Is it unla,wful for a profane to invite other profanes to petition for the mysteries at the same time he does, which results in getting together a class of candidates? Answer. The Lodge has no control over a petitioner in a case like this until he' has been elected. The most natural thing for a man to do, after he' has decided to petition a Lodge for the degrees, and even after he does so, is to tell his most intimate friends about it and invite them to do likewise, and at the same time he does, and if the result is the formation of a class of candidates there is nothing improper about it. The by-law which says it is un-Masonic to solicit membership from profanes ~pplies, of course, only to members of the Lodges. A Lodge that would censure or criticise or black ball a class of petitioners because they knocked at its door . at the same. time, having no other reason, should not be permitted to retain its charter. [Proceedings 1914, pages 19, 170.] EMPLOYMENT BUREAU 18. From Gate City Lodge, No. 522: Is the路 establishment of an employment bureau in connection with the Board of Relief, which increases the expense of the board more than double. legal? Answer. The establishment of such a bureau by a Board of Relief is lawful and wholly within the bounds of what a Relief Board Is expected to do. There is no limit as to the number of departments, divisions, subdivisions or bureaus that a Relief Board may establish and maintain for the purpose of aiding the worthy distressed Free Mason in good standing. [Proceedings 1914. pages 23, 170.] POOL .TABLE-LODGE MAY BUY. 19. Question from John C. Senate, D. D. G. M., at Milan: Can a. Masonic Lodge buy a pool table and put it in either its reception room or dining room to. be used by Masons only? And, can a. club composed of Masons only buy a pool table and with the consent of the Lodge put it in either its reception or dining room? Answer. Yes, to both interrogatories. , [Proceedings 1914, pages 23, 170.] PETITION MUST LAY OVER. 9. Carthage Lodge, No. 197.-Can a petition for affiliation be legally voted on two weeks after it is received, and the committee of investigation appoi nted? Answer: 'No, it must have lain over four weeks. [Proceedings 1911, page 19.]
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/"
20. A' membe~ of Gate City, No. 522, filed his petition for affiliat,ion with Ivanhoe, NQ. 446. at their regular communication July 9th. On July 18th he requested from his Lodge a certificate of good standing under the provisions of Section 157, and it was issued that date and received by the Secretary of 446 two days later. He was elected August 13th. The first regular communication - of Ivanhoe following the date the certificate of good standing was ,issued was July 23rd. We held (September 16th) that the ballot had been spread two weeks too soon; that the Brother's election to membership was premature and -consequently null and void, and that the ballot should again be spread on the application September, 24th-the ..next regular communication. , [Proceedings 1914, pages 23, 170.]
DIMITTED AND REMOVED-CANNOT AFFILIATE. 10: Lodge' of Love, No. 259.-A member of the Lodge removed to' the State of Colorado. While living there he wrote the Lodge, as it understood from his letter, that he desired a dimit. The dimit was granted arid forwarded to the Brother. He immediately returned it to the Lodge With a letter stating it was a mistake. as he did not want to terminate his members~ip in the Lodge, that what he desired was a certificate showing his good Masonic standing in .the . Lodge." -Therev-pon 'the' Lodge had the' Brother regularly petition for ,affiliation, and 'proceeded to elect him to membership. Was the action of ;,the Lodge regular? Answer. No. What the Lodge should have done, upon learning that the dimit had been granted through a ,mistake,' was to rescind its action granting the same. 路-If granting ,the ,dimit under the circumstances terminated his membership, the ,Lodge could not lawfully receive his petition for affiliation, as he ,at that time was a resident of another State. [Proceedings 1911, page 20.] PER CAPITA TAX NOT DEDUCTED. 11. Marceline Lodge, No. 481.-In 1906, a member of the Lodge ''left Marceiine. 'and some time afterwards' information came to the Lodge of the death o'f the Brother; and in its annual returns to tlie . Grand Secretary, this' member was so reported. Recently the Lodge learne'd that the report of the death of this member was a mistake; that he was living in an adjoining State~ The' question arose, did the Lodge owe Grand Lodge dues for the year 1906 and' thereafter? Answer: ' Yes.' ' ' [Proceedings 1911, page 20.] LODG~
MU:ST ELECT ACCORDING TO BY-LAWS..
13. ,Ca~d~n Point Lodge, No. 169.-Can a Lodge call a me~t'ih'g for t'he election of 'officers of the Lodge on a date dlfferent from" piat fixed by its By~Laws? Answer.: No. ' .'. , ' , [Proceedings 1911, page 20.]
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JURISDICTION OF ST. LOUIS LODGES. 14. The question was asked by a District Deputy Grand Master how far the Jurisdiction of the Lodges in the City of St. Louis extended? Answer: Half way by air line from the City Limits to all adjacent Lodges outside the City. [Proceedings 1911, page 20.] PETITION OF NON-RESIDENT. 15. New Madrid Lodge, No. 429.-Can a Lodge in this State lawfully receive the petition and elect and confer the degrees on a candidate who, at the time, resides in another State, and if not, can the Grand Master lawfully authorize the Lodge to do so? Answer: No. The Grand Lodge By-Laws forbid the Lodges of this State to receive the petition, either for the degrees or for affiliation, of a non-resident of the State, and the Grand Master has no' power to suspend the operation of this law of the Grand Lodge. [Proceedings 1911, page 21.] FAILURE TO ADVANCE. 1~. (;linton Lodge, No. 548.-If an Entered Apprentice or Fellow Craft failS to present himself for advancement for a .year, and then petitions for advancement, is a committee of investigation required on his petition, even though the Brethren of the Lodge know him well and could readily vouch for his moral character? Answer: Yes, the committee should never be dispensed with. The Lodge has no legal right to ignore a plain provision of the By-Laws. [Proceedings 1911, page 21.]
. RESTORATION IN TRIAL LODGE ONLY. 17. Charleston Lodge, No. 407.-Charges of unmasonic conduct were preferred against a member of Charleston Lodge, No. 407, in East Prairie Lodge, No. 384, the accused residing within the jurisdiction of East Prairie Lodge at the time. Due notice of the pendency of the charges was given to Charleston Lodge, and that Lodge requested East Prairie to proceed with the trial. This was done, the accused found guilty, and his punishment fixed at suspension for two and one-half years. Before the expiration of the period for which he had been suspended, the accused petitioned Charleston Lodge for reinstatement, and that Lodge granted his petition and reinstated him. Did Charleston Lodge, under the law, have the right to reinstate the Brother? Answer: No. As the accused was tried, found guilty, and his punishment fixed by East Prairie Lodge, that Lodge alone had the right to reinstate the suspended Brother. The Lodge pronouncing the final judgment has the right, alone, to modify its action. [Proceedings 1911, page 21:]
A. 10. Fellowship Lodge, No. 345, has this kind of a case: member of this Lodge askeq for and received a dimit. Then he weilt
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Into the saloon business. The Junior 'Warden preferred charges and he was expelled. He has now quit the saloon business and wants to be restored to good Masonic standing. Answer. 'Re would have to petition the Lodge which first dimitted him, and afterwards expelled him, under Section 250, for restoration, and, if successful he would then be at liberty to petition for ,affiliation in'the usual way. [Proceedings 1914, pages 21, 170.]
BALLOT MAY NOT BE DISCLOSED. 18. Vand~lia. Lodge, No. 49L-When ballotting on a petition for the Mysteries of Freemasonry, a member took a black-ball from the ballot box, and holding it up so all present could see it, then cast It. Afterwards, lie publicly boasted that he had come all the way from Chicago to cast a black~ ball against the petitioner., Question asked, was the member guilty of unmasonic conduct, and if so, what action should be taken by the Lodge? Answer: The Brother was guilty of most reprehensible and unmasonic conduct, and charges . should be preferred against him and he should be punished as the Lodge shall determin~. [Proceedings 1911, page 21.] . DOCUMENTARY EVIDENCE-VISITORS. 19. Keystone Lodge, No. 243.-Has the Grand路 Master power to relieve the Lodges of the State from enforcing the provision of Section 197, requiring visitors to produce documentary evidenc.e that they come from a. regular Lodge in this, or some other Grand Jurisdiction recognized by the Grand Lodge of Missouri? Answer. No. That provision of the By-Laws was enacted by. the Grand Lodge, as a safeguard against impostors, and like all laws of the Grand Lodge. must be upheld and enforced by the Grand Master. rProceedings 1911, page 21.]
CERTIFICATE OF GOOD STANDING AFTER EXPULSION. . 20. Missouri Lodge, No. 1.-A member was expelled for unmasonic conduct: No appeal was taken to the Grand Lodge. In time ~he expelled member petitioned Missouri Lodge for reinstatement. The ballot on his petition for reinstatement was not unanimous, but l'Jlore than two-thirds were favorable. He thereupon was restored to good Masonic standing, but not to Lodge membership, .and was enti tled to a certificate to that effect., The question was asked, should the certIficate of good Masonic standing be issued hy Missour'! Lodge, or'should it come from the Grand Lodge through the Grand Secretary? Answer: The certificate of good Masonic standing should be issued by Missouri Lodge, because it was the Lodge that pronounced the judgment and also reinstated the Brother, and the Grand. Lodge, 'had never acquired jurisdiction over him. ., , .. [Proceedings 1911, page 22.}
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DIMIT IN OLD FORM ILLEGAL. 1. Brother Living-ston Culbertson, a member of Papinsville Lodge, No. 140, wrote to the Secretary of the Lodge that he desired to change his membership to Hume Lodge, No. 130, and asked his Lodge to grant him a dimit for that purpose. Papinsville Lodge, No. 140, issued him a dimit on the old form in use under the Grand Lodge By-Laws of 1870, as amended by the By-Laws of 1880. The Brothe'r~'-' at once petitioned Hume Lodge for affiliation, attaching the dimit to his petition. His petition disclosed the fact that he lived across the State line in the State of Kansas. Hume Lodge rightfUlly refused to receive his petition. He thereupon returned his dimit to Papinsville Lodge, together with his dues in said Lodge for a year, and requested he be retained as a member of the Lodge. Papinsville Lodge, No. 140, asks what they should do in the premises. Decision: In his application for the dimit, Brother Culbertson complied with the requirements of Sec. 157, which provides for the granting of a certificate of good standing to a member who desires to affiliate with another Lodge in this State. The Lodge was at fault in not issuing him a certificate as provided by Sec. 157 in place of the dimit actually issued; and that, notwithstanding the Lodge issued a dimit, he had the right to treat it as a certificate of good standing, and that his membership was not terminated in Papinsville Lodge, that by his immediate return of the dimit issued, together with his dues, he retained his membership in Papinsville Lodge. [Proceedings 1912, pages 12-13 and 103.]
DIM IT-CANNOT BE RETURNED. 2. Troy Lodge, No. 34, on February 11, 1911, on application of Brother Thos.. H. Moore, who prior to said date had moved to the State of California, granted him a dimit. In January, 1912, he returned the dimit, stating that he did not want to join a Lodge in California, and would like to have a certificate of good standing such as would enable him to visit a Lodge in California. Question: Could the Lodge take back the dimit a'nd issue him a certificate of good standing? Decision: The Lodge having -regularly issued him a dimit, he ceased to be a member and the Lodge had no authority to take back the dimit and issue him a certificate such as he desired. The difference between this and the case from Papinsville Lodge, No. 140, is that, in the present case the Brother got whn.t he called for when dimit was issued him, while in the former case a certificate of good sta':nding should have been issued in the first instance rather than the dimit. [Proceedings 1912, pages 12-13 and 103.J CANDIDATES-LIST OF. 3. . R. W. Brother Frazer P. Gibbs, D. D. G. M., Thirty-third District, asks if Sec. 183, of the Grand Lodge By-Laws, prohibits the sending in sealed envelopes, of a list of names of candidates to be balloted on for the degrees to members of the Lodge. ,Answer. No. [Proceedings 1912, pages 12-13 and lOa.}
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TIME AND NOTICE OF TRIAL. 4. Tuscan Lodge, No. 360, asks where charges of unmasonic eonduct are preferred against a member, is it mandatory that the Master appoint a time for trial, or may the Master exercise his discretion as to whether he will cause the trial to be had; taking into consideration the facts known to him as to the difficult}路 of making proof of the charge? Answer: Sec. 211, By-Laws, makes it imperative that the Master should proceed with the trial. [Proceedings 1912, pages 13 and 103.] STATUS OF CANDIDATE. Rockville Lodge, No. 341, rec'eived a petition for the degrees from a man who forty years prior thereto had peti tioned and was elected to receive the degTees in a Lodge in Henry County, but who tailed. to present himself for initiation: r~ Question: Has the Lodge the right to receive his petition, or does the Lodge in Henry Couilty retain jurisdiction. notwithstanding the fact that he now resides in the jurisdiction of Rockville l!cde;-路e. Decision: Sec. 167, of the By-Laws, was not intenlied to retain perpetual jurisdiction in a case like this. Sec. 113 would prevent tt,:, Lodge in Henry County from receiving this petition as the candidate did not reside in the jurisdiction of the Lodge. Rock"me Lodge had the right to receive the petition. [Proceedings 1912, pages 13 and 103.] 5.
LODGES CANNOT TAKE PART IN POLITICS. 6. Hannibal Lodge, No. 1.88, asks whether members of the Masonic Fraternity should sign their names to such a document as the following:
"TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: "\V~, the undersigned citizens of Hannibal, Mo., and members of the Masonic Fraternity, have known . for a number of years, and have always known him to be a broad-minded man in his religious and political views."
Answer:
No. [Proceedings 1912, pages 13 and 103.] STATUS OF CANDIDATE.
7. Heroine Lodge, No. 104, asks whether an advertising-manager for a wholesale liquor house, whose duties are to send out advertising matter for his employer, is eligible under the By-Laws for membership in the Masonic Lodge. Decision: He is not eligible under Sec. 182, Grand Lodge ByLaws. JProceedings 1912, pages 13 and 103.]
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EXPELLED-MAY PETITION FOR RESTORATION. 8. McDonald Lodge, No. 324, expelled a member on charges pre路 ferred against him. charging him with misrepresenting the,.facts concerning his residence and eligibility in his petition for the degrees. 'He afterwards petitioned the Lodge for reinstatement, as provided by Sec. 250 of the Grand Lodge By-Laws. .....Question: _Has, the Lodge jurisdiction to entertain his petition for reinstatement? Answer: Yes. Sec. 250 makes no distinction in case of expelled members as to the' cause or charges upon which judgment was rendered. [Proceedings 1912, pages 13-14 and 103.]
MAY NOT CONFER DEGREES OUT OF TIME. '9: Cache Lodge, No. 416, at a regular Communication passed several candidates to the Degree of Fellow-Craft. The next regular Communication of the Lodge as fixed by its By-Laws would' conveneat 7:30 P; M., Dec. 9. Question: Could the M. M. degree be conferred on these Brethren at a special meeting convened at 11 ,o'clock 'A. M.., Dec. 9, which meeting would continue through the day into the regular meeting in the evening as fixed by ,the By-Laws:' Decision: Under Sec. 110. Grand Lodge BY-Laws, the Lodge could ,not confer the degrees prior to the t.ime fixed by the By-Laws for the next regular meeting. The Grand Master has no authority to suspend this By-Law of the Grand Lodge by issuing a Dispensation. [Proceedings 1912, pages 14 and 103.] TRIAL-ON ALL SPECIFICATIONS NOT REQUIRED. 10. Tuscan Lodge, No~ 360, received charges'of unmasonic conduct against one of its members. The specifications were numerous, and 'a; trial would necessarily' require the taking of a great mass of 'te8ti'mo ny. Question: Could the Lodge require the accusing Brother to stand the expense of taking the testimony as a condition precedent to th'e trial. , Answer: No.' ,. Question 2: Was it compulsory on the part of the 'Lodge that they proceed to trial on all of the specifications, 'or' could the Master , or pr-osecuting officer the Lodge require the accuser to elect one or ,more specifications upon which the trial should' be h~d and for the purpose' o'f saving expense? o
of
Decision: A Lodge has the right to protect itself against unnecessary' e'xpense and may require' the accusing' party to elect which of several specification's he desires to have the 'trial proceed upon; the ~emain'der of the specifications contained in the charge to stand contil:tued until 'trial is h'ad. " ' [Proceedhlgs 1912, pages 14 and 103.]
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LODGE MUST TRY SALOONKEEPER. 11. September' 11, I was notified that a member of Cardwell Lodge, No. 231, was engaged in the saloon business. I instructed R. W. Brother Virgil P. Adams, D. D. G. M.: in whose district the Lodge is located, to investigate the charge, and if it was well founded,. to order the Lodge to proceed to file charges and expel the delinquent member. [Proceedings 1912,pages 15 and 103.] CANNOT BE INSTALLED WHILE UNDER CHARGES. 13. Charges of unmas,onic conduct were preferred in Itaska Lodge, No. 420, against the Secretary-elect of' that Lodge after his election and prior to the date of installation. , The question was' asked as to whether he could be installed while the charges were pending against him? Answer: No, the general welfare of the Lodge requires that an officer should not be installed against whom charges of unmasonic conduct are pending. [Proceedings 1912, pages 15-16 and 103.] CANDIDATES FOR POLITICAL OFFICE. 14. My attention has been called to a recent issue of a Masonic Journal published in Kansas City, made up largely of advertisements of candidates for political offices, giving their Lodge membership and Masonic history. Such publications in a Masonic Journal are in violation of Masonic law. (Sec. 187 of the Grand Lodge By-Laws.) In. a subsequent issue of the same Journal the editor apologizes for the political issue of the paper, saying that he was not informed as to the law on the SUbject. [Proceedings 1912, pages 16 and 103.] . SPECIAL PER CA.PITA TAX. 1. That a Lodge may pay the entire special per capita tax on its present membership for the four years out of its treasury and be thereby exempt from further payments by reason, of increase in membership. 2. That it was optional with the Lodge whether said special per capita tax was paid out of its treasury or collected from the members. 3. ' That the law passed at the 1912 session with reference to said special per capita tax was compulsory, not voluntary, and any member failing to pay same, upon proper notice and demand, was subject to Masonic discipline. [Proceedings 1913, page 15.]
*That the incoming Grand Master and his successors in office be, and he and they are hereby requested and directed to take such steps as may be necessary and proper' under the laws of this Grand Lodge to enforce the collection of the special per capita tax for the Improvement Fund of the Masonic Home of Missouri, adopted at
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and passed at the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge, held September, 1912. â&#x20AC;˘ See report of COmmittee on Jurisprudence. [Proceedings 1913, pages 15 and 161.] REJECTION NOT TO BE ENDORSED ON DIMIT. 4. That the Secretary of a Lodge in which a petition for affilia, tion has been rejected has no .right to state this fact -on the 'face or back of the dimit. [Proceedings 1913, page 15.J PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS. 5. That a man who has lost the left leg below the knee and wears a cork leg is eligible if able to conform to the ceremonies. A cork leg discounts a cork head. 6. That a man having iost his second, third and fourth fingers of the right hand is ineligible. [Proceedings 1913, page 15,]
DRAM SHOP LICENSE. 8. That the possession of a Dram Shop License in his own name to sell liquor is sufficient ground on' which to prefer charges against a member. [Proceedings 1913, page 15.J
WORSHIPFUL MASTER SHOULD WEAR HAT. 9. That the W. M. should wear his hat while officiating as such, 'whether in Lodge or elsewhere. . [Proceedings 1913, page 15.]
WORSHIPFUL MASTER SUSPENDED FROM OFFICE. 10. That a visit his Lodge.
'V.
M. under suspension from office has a right tCJ [Proceedings 1913, page 15.]
SOLDIER INELIGIBLE. 11. That in the case ofa soldier, who owns property in a certain town and calls it his home, but has been in the U. S. Army for fifteen years, and expects to re-enlist, and who has not been in the State for twelve months nor within the jurisdictiqn of the Lodge six months. I held that he was ineligible, being unable to comply with Sec. 113. [Proceedings 1913, page 15.]
178
lSept.
Proceedings of the DROPPING FROM MEMBERSHIP ILLEGAL.
12. That in the case ~f a member who was "dropped" from the roll of m'embership without suspension, I held that it is illegal to "drop" a member without notifying him to appear at a stated time and show cause why he should not be suspended, and then proceed to vote by paper ballot whether he _shall be suspended or not. (Sec. 152.) Not having acted in accordance with said section, I further held that said Brother is a member in good standing, and instructed theSecretary of the Lodge to make demand upon him for all dues accruing since the time he was "dropped." And, if said member should pay the accrued dues, the Secretary was further instructed to remit to the Grand Secretary the amount of Grand Lodge dues owing on said member from the year he was "dropped" to 1913; inclusive. [Proceedings 1913, page 15.] EASTER SUNDAY NOT A MASONIC OCCASION. 13. That in the case of a Lodge requestioga Dispensation' to attend divine service in a body, on Easter Sunday, I held that it is evidently the spirit of the Masonic Law and the previous practice of the Grand Lodge and Grand Masters to discourage public processions of Subordinate Lodges except upon. Masonic occasions, as defined in Sec. 47. Sec. 48 also' reads:' "A Subordinate Lodge shall not appear in public procession without a Dispensation for that purpose from the Grand 'Master, except on Masonic occasions." In view of the law and the precedents above, referred to. it is my opinion that this power of the Grand Master to g-rant 'Dispensations should not be exercised except incases where the occasion carries with it some peculiar Masonic, significance. No reasonable eonstruction of this rule gives authority to the Grand Master to exercise his judgment in creating other o,ccasions wher.ein a Lodge may appear" otherwise the intention would have been made clearly manifest. It is laudable to attend Qi,vine, service, and the hi.diviQual Freemason may exercise his right of conscience without either interference or direCtion, and in no way has he surrendered this right by his voluntary connection with this inst~tutio!1, whol:;e aim, ~nd object is路-to establish the Fatherhood of God and the Brotherhood of Man. The "Spirit of toleration in Freemasonry is so broadly defined ,and so universally pro'tected by the institution, that I feel I would be d'erelict to my duty In lending official sanction to the violation of a fundam'ental pr'incipie. I therefore refused to grant the Dispensation. [Proceedings 1913, page 16.] SALOONKEEPER FROM ANOTHER JURISDICTION.
to
14." That no Lodge in this Jurisdiction has the right entertain charges against a Brother belonging to an Illinot's Lodge for engaging in the saloon business in this'State. Illinois does not bar 8aloon'keepers nor employ'es thereof fro'm membership. , . 路"Committee approves, but are of the opinion that' a Freemason hoidlng meinb'ership in'another' State, and residing in this State, who I
1918. ]
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violates the law of this Grand Lodge, is not entitled to the rights and privileges of a Freemason in this State." 路See report of Committee on Jurisprudence, [Proceedings 1913, pages 16 and 161.] SECRETARY MUST ISSUE RECEIPT. 15. That the Secretary of a Lodge must issue receipt for Lodge dues to a m~mber. notwithstanding said member has refused to pay the special per capita tax for tlie Masonic Home Improvement Fund. [Proceedings 1913, page 16.] CANNOT HOLD ELECTION. 16. That a Lodge could not hold Election of Officers prior to date set in their By-Laws, although the Lodge had a provision in their By-Laws to that effect. [Proceedings 1913, page 16.] ENTERED APPRENTICE MAY DIMIT. 17. That an E. A. living outside of the Jurisdiction of the Lodge In which he received his degree is entitled to a dimit without stand~ Ing examination. [Proceedings 1913, page 16.]
MEMORIAL DAY NOT A MASONIC OCCASION. 18.
That Memorial Day is not a Masonic occasion. [Proceedings 1913, page 17.]
NAME OF MEMBER-CANNOT CHANGE. That路 the name of a member on the路 Grand Lodge records could not be changed until said change had been made according to law. [Proceedings 1913, page 17.] 19.
PETITIONER NOT QUALIFIED U. D. 20. That Brethren not being qualified petitioners for the formation of a Lodge U. D. could not be elected to membership or office. [Proceedings 1913, page 17.]
SECRETARY NOT ENTITLED TO INTEREST. 21. That the Secretary of a Lodge is not entitled to interest on the Lodge. funds. [Proceedings 1913, page 17.]
180
Proceedings of the
[Sept.
ALIENS ELIGIBLE. 22. That one' who has not acquired citizenship is eligible for the degrees. [Proceedings 1913. page 17.] PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS. 23. That a Lodge could receive petition from one whose feet were of unequal size. [Proceedings 1913, page 17.] SUICIDE. 24. That a lVr. M. in good standing who had committed suicide was entitled to Masonic burial. [Proceedings 1913. page 17:] 4. From Butler we received a request for a ruling upon the propriety of a Lodge giving the remains of a Brother Masonic burial who had been guilty of both homicide and suicide. Also whether or not the Lodge could lawfully refuse to bury him. Answer: As the Brother was doubtless not responsible for his acts at the moment the terrible deeds were committed, his reason surely having been dethroned, it is perfectly proper and your duty to give his remains burial with Masonic rites. [Procee~ings 1914. pages 20, 170.] BELIEF IN DEITY, 25. That petition for degrees must state that the applicant is a firm believer in the One, living and true God. (Sec: 116, page 27. Book- of Constitutions, 1908.) [Proceedings 1913, page 17.] MEMBERSHIP IN OTHER SOCIET.Y. 26 That charges could not be entertained against a member because of his holding membership in the Order of Knights of Columbus. [Proceedings 1913. page 17.] COLLECTIVE BALLOT ON SUSPENSION.
27 ballot.
That it is irregular to suspend delinquents on a collective Each must be voted on separately. [Proceedings 1913. page 17.] HALL DESTROYED-LODGE MAY MEET.
28. That' a Lodge, having lost its hall by fire. could hold meetings in a hall duly dedicated and consecrated regardless of a pro-
Grand Lodge of Missouri
1918.]
181
vision in their By-Laws that place of meeting could only be changed by an amendment regularly presented and lying over two regular communications. [Proceedings 1913, page 17.] UNSOUND MIND-CANNOT BRING CHARGES AGAINST. 22. Brother Davis was tried by New Madrid Lodge, convicted lind expelled for calling another member of the Lodge a rascal and scoundrel, by a vote of nineteen "guilty" and nine "not guilty." Three of the nineteen who voted "guilty" were not entitled to vote because they had not passed the proficiency examination required by Sec. 121, on page 28 of the By-Laws, their degrees having been received since September 30th, 1908. If the presiding officer had allowed only those to vote who were legally qualified to do so the Brother would have been acquitted. At the time of the trial and for several years prior thereto the accused Brother was very sick. He was a victim of locomotor ataxia, was still suffering from the effects of a stroke of apoplexy upon "both his mind and body, was old and feeble and in his dotage and not responsible for what he said. Believing that a Lodge has no right to place a Brother of unsound mind on trial, we ruled that he had been unlawfully expelled and directed the Lodge to restore him to good Masonic standing. After reaching this conclusion and writing the decision, but before mailing it, we were advised by wire of the death of the Brother. We sent the following telegram to the Secretary of the Lodge: "Having decided that O. L. pavis was illegally expe'lled an'd havIng reinstated him to. good Masonic standing before his death, you are directed to bury his remains with Masonic honors if his widow requests it." We have been advised that the remains were given Masonic burial by the officers and members of the Lodge. The papers in the case have been turned over to the Chairman of the Jurisprudence Committee. . [Proceedings 1914. page 24.] ASSESSMENT-IMPROVEMENT FUND. 24. Griswold, No. 178, of Bellflower, asks: "Where the Lodge is collecting the assessment for the building fund of the Masonic Home from the individual members, how much should we collect from members who were raised in May, 1914?" Answer: $1.50. / Members joining between June 30th, 1913, and July 1st, 1914, will each be liable for $1.00. The four-year period for which this assessment of 50 cents per member per year was levied is divided, as we understand it,as follows: 1st 2d 3d 4th
year-from year-from year-from year-from
June June June June
30, 1912, to July 3D, 1913, to July 3D, 1914, to July 3D, .1915, to July
1, 1, 1, 1,
1913. 1914, 1915. 1916.
182
Proceedings of the
[Sept.
27.- An officer from Lathrop Lodge asks if a Brother refuses to pay the assessment' of 50 cents for the Masonic Home Improve~ ment Fund, has the Lodge a right to prefer charges against him? Answer: Yes,. but before doing so thoroughly explain to him that the money is for the purpose of making needed betterments and improvements at the Home; that the Home belongs to him as much as to any other Brother in the State, and, that the sum total asked for is but $2.00, and that owing to the uncertainties of commercial life his own application for admission'to the Home or Hospital may be the very next one sent in by his Lodge.' (Proceedings 1914, page 27.] DUES" ACCRUE FROM DATE OF INSTITUTION. 26. Manes Lodge was instituted under Dispensation in' March,' 1913, and organized under Charter in October, 1913, and asked from which dat~ it should charge dues. Answer: From 'date of institution under Dispensation. '(Proceedi~gs 1914, pa~e 27.] RESTORATION. ' 28. A n expelled Brother of Independence petitioned' his, Lodge for restoration and failed. He wants to file his petition again. Can , we entertain it orrnust he apply to the Grand Lodge. Answer: Having made 'one application to your Lodge and failed .. he, of course, now has the right to petition the Grand Lodge for restoration, but it is my opinion that he now, has the option of petitioning either body any reasonable number of times. [Proceedings 191"4, page 27.]
29. One of the 'professors of our Norm~l School at Mar'yville is desirous of Petitioning ,for the degrees. About twenty years ago he received the Entered Apprentice degree in San Francisco. He has forgotten absolutely everything about the work and cannot even remember the name of ~he, Lodge, a,nd the records of the Lodges in San Francisco were destroyed by the conflagration. which followed the earthquake. What ,procedure would you advise? , ,Answer,: We wrote to the Grand, Master and Grand Secretary of California. They replied that the professor's name did not appear on the lists of members of California since, August 1st, 1912; that they had no record back of that, and that they claimed no jurisdiction. We then authorized Nodaway Lodge, No. 470, to entertain his petition ior' the - three: degrees. ' ' [Proceedings 1914, page 27.] FUNERAL OF SOJOURNER. 30. In cities where there are two '01' more Lodges the Board of Relief shall keep a' record of the dates and the names of' t'he Lodges conducting funerals of the remai);s of sojourning Free-
1918.]
Grand Lodge of Missouri
,183
masons, and each Lodg~' in 'its regular turn' shall conduct such funerals when requested to do so by the Board of Relief. [Proceedings 1914, pages 27-28,] RELIGION OR POLITICS. No.2. Question: "Does the fact that a man is a Roman Catholic justify a Masonic Lodge in refusing him a courtesy that would be shown any on'e .else, such' as thanking him for a favor?" Answer: A Masonic Lodge, as such, does not in any sense par'ticipale' in matlerf?' of religion or politics. It is wholly improper for a Lodge ,to take any action that could be construed as favoring or antagonizing religious' or political' moves. Freemasonry knows no Dem'ocni.ts,' Methodists, . Prohibitionists or' Cathoiics" but deals with the "whole human species as one family." .' . [Proceedings 1915, page 27.] , TRAVELlNG ACTOR-INELIGIBLE. No.3. 'In Decision No.3 the question was: "Is a traveling actor who, with his family, spends about nine months of each year on 'the road, going from State to State, and even to. foreignc.ountries, .but claiming a Missouri town in .which he remains during his vacation as his home, eligible for the Degrees of Freemasonry T' The Grand Master answered as .follows: "The provisions of Section 113,. Grand Lodge BY-Laws, appear to preclude this class of applicants, and, we believe" wisely so; however, in view: Of the decision ren.dered by the Grand Lodge in 1914, the conditions being very similar, we decided he can," Under similar facts, ,your Committee on .Jurisprudence, in 1914, repor'ted that in its opinion, such a traveling 'actor wa~ not eligible to membership under Section 113 ,(Grand Lodge Proceedings, 1914, page 170), thereby disapproving the decision of Grand Master Boor (page 20), but the 9rand Lodge upheld the decisiOn of the Grand Master and disapproved the decision of your C()mmittee, and it is upon tIJis decision tl:Iat ,the present Grand Master made his ruling. Grand Master Lampe'rt, in an analogous case, held that a soldier w:ho own~d property in, this State and called. it his hom~, but had been in the United States Army:for fifteen years and expected to re-enlist,' a~d . who had not been in the State (or twelve months, nor within, '.the jurisdiction of ,the .Lodge sixmonths,wasl neliglble (Proceedings of ,1913, page,l5), .and this decision was :;Lpproved by the C~>InmitteE! on ,rurisprudence and adopted by the Grand Lodge (page 162). It thus apPeitrs thl'.l.t the ,Grand Lodge, has, upon analogous circumstanc~s, made inconsistent rulings. We believe that the Grand Master, in view of the d,ecisionof the Grand Lodge in 19t"4, was corr~ct in "his ruling, but' we disapprove of the decision of the Grand Lodge ot 1914, because it clearly contravenes Section 113 of the Grand Lodge By-Laws, and we recommend that the decision of the present Grand Master, for the reasons above expressed, be disapproved. [Proceedings 1915, page 28.]
184
Proceedings of the
[Sept.
FEES IN CASE OF WAIVER. No.4. Decided that when one Lodge requests of another waiver of jurisdiction over a candidate for the Degrees of Freemasonry, that the Lodge granting the request has a legal right to demand a part or all the fees as a condition on which the waiver is granted. [Proceedings 1915, page 28.] VISITORS-DOCUMENTARY EVIDENCE. NO.6. Question: "A member of the fraternity who is from another jurisdiction, one not requiring payment of -dues in advance, presents in May, 1915, receipt for dues in said jurisdiction for the year 1914. 'Would the Grand Lodge regulations admit him to a Missouri Lodge?" Answer:' A Brother from a Grand Jurisdiction' recognized by Missouri, bearing documentary evidence (receipt for dues) dated "not more than twelve months last past, such Grand Jurisdiction nut requiring payment of annual dues in advance, can legally be admitted to a Missouri Lodge." [Proceedings 1916, page 30.] MILEAGE AND PER DIEM-PROXY ENTITLgD TO. No.7. The question in Decision NO.7 of the Grand- Master is as follows: "When a Past Master, holding' the proxy of the Worshipful Master, and the present Senior Warden both from the same Lodge attend the Grand Lodge, which should represent his Lodge and draw mileage and per diem?" The Grand Master desires the opinion of the Jurisprudence Committee on this subject. Article II, Section 2, of the Constitution of the Grand Lodge provides, among other things, as follows: "The proxy so deputed shall be entitled to the same privileges and perform the duties of him or them deputing him." Section 69 of the Grand Lodge By-Laws provides that the mileage and per diem shall be paid, among other things, to "one representative from each Lodge," etc. It is our opinion that the Master, being the senior in office, is entitled to draw this mileage and per diem. In view of the fact that the above-quoted portion of Article II, Section 2, of the Constitution of the Grand Lodge provides that "The proxy so deputed s.hall be entitled to the same privileges and perform the same duties of him or them deputing him," we are of the opinion that the party holding the proxy should stand in the shoes of the Worshipful Master and, in the Worshipful Master's absence, he would be entitled to the mileage and per diem, instead of the Senior or Junior Warden. [Proceedings 1915, page 30.]
1918.]
Grand Lodge of 1l1issouri
185
EXPELLED-MAY PETITION. No.!. Question: An expelled Mason petitions for reinstatement, receives a two-thirds vote and is granted a certificate of good standing. Does this entitle him to any other Masonicprivllege than to petition for membership? If so, what? Also, may be petition any lodge in the State for memoership, or can he petition only the lodge which expelled him and which also issued the certificate of good standing? Answer: Upon the case stated the party is not entitled to any privilege other than to petition for membership. He may petition any lodge in this State. He is not required to petition only the lodge which expelled him. [Proceedings 1916, page 14.] DEAD-CANNOT BE REINSTATED. No.2; Question: For the sixth time it has been asked. A. Brother is suspended for non-payment of dues and arterward dies. Can he be reinstated if his relatives or friends pay what he owed at the date of his suspension so that he can be given a Masonic burial Answer: No. [Proceedings 1916, page 14.] FAILURE TO ADVANCE. NO.3. Question: Can a Worshipful Master legally proceed to confer the second or third degree on an Entered Apprentice or Fellow Craft who has not presented himself within one year for advancement (although he has good cause for not' having presented himself sooner and there is no objection offered to his advancement) without first having him petition in regular form? Answer: No. [Proceedings 1916, page 15.] CERTIFICATE OF GOOD STANDING-E. A. OR F. C. NO.4. Question: Maya lodge issue a certificate of good standing to an Entered Apprentice or Fellow Craft for the purpose of joining another lodge? Answer: No. Certificates of good standing can only be issued to Mast,er Masons. [Proceedings 1916, page 15.] CERTIFICATE FROM ANOTHER JURISDICTION. No.6. Question: May a petition be received for afflliation of a Master Mason from another State on a certificate of good standing? Answer: No. A petition from a foreign jurisdiction should be accompanied by a dimlt. [Proceedings 1916, page 15.]
Proceedings oj the
186
[Sept.
, FAILURE) TO AnVANCE. ,No.6. Question: A Fellow Craft fails to appear for his third degree in one year. Is he in good 'standing as a Fellow Craft?' . Answer; ,Yes. . May he still continue to sit in a lodq-e of Fellow Crafts? Answer':
Yes.
He has, not passed his proficiency examination; ,may he attend lod.ge ,and pass this examinll.tion? ' Answer:
Yes.
May路.'a Fellow Craft or Master Mason lawfully teach him the Pr.oficlen~y lect';lre before he is elected to be raised?' Answer: Yes. [Proceedings 1916, page 15.] E. A. MAY DIMIT. No.7. Question: Six years ago a brother was made an Entered Apprentice. in Lexington, Mo., examined as to his proficiency and on presenting himself for advancement an objection was made, but charges not filed. H,e moved to St. Louis, where he now lives. He wants to take the other degrees in St. Louis., Will he have to petition to take the remainder of the degrees, and, if so, what lodgethe lodge at Lexington or the lodge at St. Louis, Which he wishes to join? Answer: H'e may apply to Lexington Lodge for a. certificate of dimission under "section 163 of Grand Lodge By-laws, petition the St. Louis Lodge for affiliation" accompanying such petition with the certificate of dimission' from Lexington Lodge and upon his election 'to membership in the St. Louis Lodge ~ould be entitled to receive the degrees ipso facto without petitioning for such degrees to any lodge. . , [Proceedings 1916, page 15.] FAILURE TO ADVANCE. No.8. Question: Ari Entered Apprentice or Fellow Craft falls to present himself for adva:nceinent within a year.. but has a good and sufficient excuse for not doing so. Should he be required to petition for advancement? Answer: Ye~. The good anq. sufficient excuse cla'use hi section , 107 -r~fers' to repayment of the fee. [Proceedings 1916, page 16.] EXAMIN ATION AS TO PROFICIENCY. No.9. Question: A brother is made a Master路 Mason in a lodge in Illinois which 路does not require an examination as to h!s proficiency in the third degree. On dimit from his ,lodge in Illinois he i8 elected to membership in a lodg.e in Missouri and is elected an officer
1918.)
Grand Lodge of Missouri
187'
to
therein. Will he have stand an examin'ation as to his proficiency in the third degree before he can' be installed? Answ'er: No. The Masonic status of a brother is fixed by the law of the jurisdiction wherein he was made a Mason. Our law requiring an examination as to proficiency in the third degree, and imposing penalties for failure to do so, only applies to Master Masons raised in this jurisdiction. [Proceedings 1916, page 16.] EXAMINATION AS TO PROFICIENCY. No. 12. Ques'tion: Can a lodge in this jurisdiction request another lodge, also in this jurisdiction, to examine and vote on the proficiency of a Brother in the lecture' of the third degree? 'Answer: Yes. Authority to confer the third degree necessarily carries with it authority to examine and vote on his proficiency. [Proceedings 1916, page 16.] RANK-ENTITLED TO. No. 13. Question: Our Worshipful Master has moved out of the State to reside and we have elected the Senior Warden as Worshipful Master. Is the Worshipful Master who moved away entitled to the rank of Past Master? - Answer: Yes. He will be at the conclusion of the term for which he was' elected. . Question: Will the Senior Warden who was elected Worshipful Master be entitled to the rank of Past Master? Answer: elected.
Yes, at the conclusion of the term tor which he was [Proceedings 1916, page 16.] PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS.
No. 14. The Grand Master of Texas asked for ruling on. the following question: Ivanhoe Lodge, No. 446, having asked Pentagon, Lodge No. lOgO of the Grand Jurisdiction of Texas to confer the de.,. grees on a candidate who had been elected to receive the degrees in Ivanhoe Lodge, but had move'd to Texas, it was discovered by the master of ceremonies of Pentagon Lodge, while the candidate was bein'g prepared, that one joint of the middle toe of the left foot was missing, which made him ineligible to receive the degrees under the laws of Texas, and the candidate was excused, and inasmuch as the Brother would be a member of a lodge In Missouri, should the degrees be conferred on him? I was asked, if, according to our laws governing physical qualifications, he was qualified to receive the degrees which' Ivanhoe No. 446 had 'requested Pentagon Lodge No. 1080 to confer. Answer: In our jurisdiction it has never been held that a missing joint from the middle toe of. the left foot would hinder a person
,
. 188
Pl'ocee.dings of the
[Sept.
. otherwise qualified from becoming a Freemason, and in order that there might be no dispute' in such matters, Grand Master Kuhn, several years ago, introduced and secured the passage of an amendment to Physical Disqualification, Section 106 of our By-laws, which provided, "Nothing berein contained shall be so construed as to render anyone ineligible to the privileges of Masonry who can by the aid of artificial appliances conform to the necessary ceremonies." Under which by-law it was decided by Grand' Master Lampert and approved by the Grand Lodge, "That a man who has lost the left leg below the knee and wears a cork leg is eligible if able to conform to the ceremonies; a cork leg discounts a cork head." [Proceedings }916, page 17.] DUES-BACK-LODGE MAY RETAIN. No. 15. Question: A Brother suspended for non-payment ot due~ tendered the amount he owed at the time of his suspension and petitioned to be reinstated, but was on vote ot the lodge rejected. What shall we do with the money? Answer:
Keep it.
.4
He owed it to you; and you have it. [Proceedings 1916, page 17.]
LIQUOR-MANUFACTURE OF.
No. 16. Question: Is one who is engaged in the manufacture 01 Weiss beer containing 2' per cent aclohol eligible to petition tor the degrees? Weiss beer is not considered an 'intoxicating liquor. Answer: No. Ten drinks of beer containing 2 per cent ot alcohol is just as intoxicating as one drink of whisky containing 20 per cent of alcohol, and makes you feel a great deal worse. [Proceedings 1916, page 17.] ELECTION NULL AND VOID. No. 17. Question: A member ot a lodge in this jurisdiction peti¡ tions another lodge in this jurisdiction for membership by affiliation, and was elected and regularly pays his dues. No certificate 01 good standing or dimit was ever issued to him by the lodge of which he first was a member. After some years the lodge of which he was first a member suspended him for non-payment of dues. What is his Masonic standing? â&#x20AC;˘ Answer: He stands a suspended member of the lodge of which he was first a member. [Proceedings 1916, page 18.] TRIAL-NEW, CANNOT GRANT. No. 18. Question: A Brother is tried and convicted in his lodge for unmasonic conduct. Has the Worshipful Master power to grant the accused a new trial? Answer: No. [Proceedings 1916, page 18.]
1918.]
Grand Lodge of J.l4issouri
189
JURISDICTION TERRITORIAL. No. 19. Q'uestion: We have an application for membership from a Brother lately dimitted from an Oklahoma Lodge who lives just across the line In Oklahoma and just a mile from our lodge in MIssouri. Can we elect him to membershIp, provIded we get the consent of the lodge in Oklahoma In whose jurisdIction he resides? Answer: No. Under Section 113, By-laws,' we have no extra territorIa.1 jur~l5dIction. [Proceedings 1916, page 18.] PETITION FOR DEGREES. The committee on the petition of a candidate for the degrees having reported unfavorably, a ballot must be taken. Objections may' be made to receive a petition or to initiation or advancement, 'but not to balloting on the petition. Sections 103, 123. 141.. Grand Lodge By-Laws. . [Proceedings 1917, page 35.] 1.
PETITION FOR DEGREES. 2. The committee on a petition for the degrees being all absent at the meeting at which the report was due, the Worshipful Master appointed a new committee, who reported unfavorably, but not on the ground of physical disqualificati<>n. The Secretary returned the fee to a friend of the candidate, a member of the Lodge, who inquired how to proceed. Answer: A ballot should have been taken. Return the fee to the Secretary that a ballot may be taken on the petition路 as uro. vided by Section 126, Grand Lodge By-Laws. [Proceedings 1917, page 35.1 PETITION F'OR REINSTATEMENT. 3. A member of a Lodge was suspended for $9 delinquent duM. After more than one year he petitioned for reinstatement, accompanying his petition with a draft for $15 to apply on dues. Question: If his petition should be rejected, should the LodS!':e retain the $9 and return the oth'er $6? Answer: The brother owed the Lodge $9 for dues when Sl1l1pend ed, which shouid be retained, and if his petition for reinstatement should be rejecrted the $6. sho~l1d be returned to the suspended brother. [Proceedings 1917, page 36.] DOTAGE-WHEN NOT IN. 4.
A Secretary of a Lodge writes as follows: "Our Lodge who is 67 years in possession of consider him in
has of' all hIs
a petition for the degrees from a man age I and white headed, but seems to be hIs faculties, but some of our memberq dotage. Is he elIgible?
190
Proceedings of the
[Sept.
Answer. If the candidate is in the possession of his mental faculties, then he is not in his dotage, and his age is no objection. Dotage is feebleness or imbecility of understanding or mind, childishness of old age; senility. [Proceedings 1917, page 36.] ACQUITTAL-WILL NOT BAR CHARGE. 6. A member of Lowry City Lodge was acquitted on the following charge and specifications: "That said Brother , on or about June 20, 1916, and on other dates and times, did take my wife away from home and remain away most of the night, and called upon her in my absence in my home, and did continue to do these things until my home has been broken up." Would such acquittal bar a charge for adultery with the wife of the accuser? 7 Answer: The charge on which the accused was trie,d did not specifically involve adultery. He was riot tried on a charge for that offense. I am of the opinion that the acquittal on the charge will not bar a charge for adultery. [Proceedings 1917, page 36.] RECOMMENDATION-BY MAJORITY VOTE. 6. The question:
W.
M.
of
Versailles
Lodge
presented
the
following
"Twenty or more of the members of Versailles Lodge No. 117 have presented a petition to the Lodge asking a recommendation of Versailles Lodge that said petitioners b( granted a charter for the formation of a new Lodge in Versailles'. By what vole of the Lodge numerically can the recommendation be legally given? And are the petitioners who are members of Versailles Lodge entitled to vote on the question of granting the prayer of their petition?" Answer: In' my opinion a majority vote will carry the recommendation. T'he petitioners who are members of Versailles Lodge are entitled to vote on the question. Section 72,' Grand Lodge ByLaws does not dis.qualify them. [Proceedings 1917, page 36.) W. M. OF NEW LODGE. 7. Is a路 brother who has served as Warden in a Lodge U. D. and who has not previously served as Master or Warden in a Lodge eligible to the office of Master at an election held subsequent to the constitution of the Lodge under its .charter? Answer: No. Any Master Mason may be elected and installed as a Master of a new Lodge at its organization under its charter,
1918.]
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but. not at a subsequent election, unless he has previously served as Master or Warden in a chartered Lodge. See Sections 78 and 91, Grand Lodge By-Laws. [Proce~dings 1917, page 37.] EXAMINATION-AS'TO PROFICIENCY-BEFORE DIMIT. 8. The Secretary of Willard Lodge No. 620 writes that Willard Lodge granted a member a certificate of good standing for the purpose of transferring 'his'membership to another Lodge, and that he has been elected a member thereof without having passed his examination on his proficiency on the first section of the degree of M. M. as required by Section 121, and that he is withholding his Dimit until informed what to do. Answer. The Dimit should not be granted until the member has passed a satisfactory examination on his proficiency. Section 121, Grand Lodge By-Laws. [Proceedings 1917, page 37.] PETITION FOR DEGREES-WHO MAY. 9. Question: A gentleman of good repute, exemplary character, and possessed of all the necessary qualifications, desires to apply for membership and receive the degrees in Freemasonry. He is employed as路 superintendent of cooperage in the mechanical department of a brewery. He is not in any way connected with the manufacture or sale of the product. Would his present occupation make him ineligible? Answer: His occupation does not render him ineligible to petition a Lodge for the degrees under Section 182, Grand Lodge ByLaws. See Decision No.2, Grand Lodge Proceedings 1915, page 194. [Proceedings 1917, page 37.] FUNERAL SERVICE-AT TIME' OF BURIAL. 10. R. W. Brother J. M. Carnahan, D. D. G. M. Forty-seventh District, submitted the following question: "Last fall a Brother Master Mason died and the Lodge was unable to conduct his funeral. His widow now desires us to hold Masonic services at his grave." R. W. Brother Carnahan ruled that he knew of no Masonic law that would authorize the Lodge to hold funeral services as requested. That it was his understanding that the funeral services of a Masonic brother must be conducted at the time of the interment. I approved this ruling. Section 257, Grand Lodge By-Laws, authorizes a Masonic funeral service in connection with the burial of a deceased Master Mason in good standing. I find nothing in the law which would authorize the holding of funeral services over the grave of a deceased brother after his burial, nor any' service adapted to such an occasion. [Proceedings 1917, page 38.]
192
[Sept.
Proceedings of the PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS.
11. Is a petitioner for the degree who has a wooden leg with a flexible knee joint, and who is able to conform to the ceremonies, eligible? This question was submitted to R. W. Bro. Emsley C. James, D. D. G. M., who ruled that the pevtitIoner was eligible. This ruling Is approved. [Proceedings 1917, page 38.] ROMAN
CATHOLIC~ELIGIBLE TO
PETITION.
12. Is a Roman Catholic eligible to petition for the degrees In Freemasonry? Answer: Freema~onry makes no religious test except the petitioner must be an unfeigned believer in the one living and true God. ' [Proceedings 1917, page 38.] LODGE MAY NOT MEET. 13. Zalma Lodge No. 545, having a small hall, requested a dispensation to hold a session of the Lodge in the I. 0.路 O. F. hall for the purpose of conferring degrees. and serving a bask~t dinner, at which it was expected there would be a large number in attendance from other Lodges. A dispensation was refused, it having been r~led that a Lodge can not legally meet and work in a building that has not been dedicated and consecrated to Masonic. purposes. See Proceedings 1916, page 216. This seems to be the construction heretofore placed on Section 82 of the Grand Lodge By-Laws. [Proceedings 1917, page 38.] DEBT-LODGE MAY CONTRACT. 14. JacksonVille Lodge No. 541 requested my consent and approval to incur indebtedness for the purchase of ten acres of land adjoining the town of Jacksonville for a Masonic cemetery. The land would cost $1,500, and to survey and improve the same would cost an additional $300. Having full confidence in the business ability of the officers and members of Jacksonville Lodge, I gave my consent and路 approval as requested. [Proceedings 1917, page 38.] 15. I gave my consent and approval to Portageville Lodge No. 166 to borrow $250 for the completion of a hall occupied by said Lodge and Odd Fellows conjointly. Also to Hiram Lodge No. 362 to borrow $5.500 to purchase and improve a hall. [Proceedings 1917, page 39.]
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ALIENS ELIGIBLE FOR DEGREES-WHEN. 16. Question:.. Is a petitioner for the degrees rendered ineligible from the fact that he is not a naturalized citizen of the United States? Answer: The qualifications of a candidate are prescribed by Sections 113, 115 and 116, Grand Lodge By-Laws. If the candidate is a resident and has the other qualifications it does not seem nec,;, e8sary that he should be a naturalized citizen. (Proceedings 1917, page 39.] TRIALS-TESTIMONY' FILED WITH. SECRETARY. 17. The testimony of profanes 'was taken by a committee appointed by the Worshipful Master pending charges preferred against a member of the Lodge. The committee did not file the testimony so taken with the Secretary, but permitted one of the counsel in the case to retain it, who declined to allow counsel on the other side to examine it. Complaint having been made to me, I ruled, that as soon as the committee had completed taking the testimony they should have filed it with the Secretary of the Lodge, so that either party could have an opportunity to examine it, and that counsel in refusing to permit opposing counsel to examine it were guilty of unmasonic conduct, and, unless he apologized in open Lodge tor his conduct, I directed that charges be preferred against him. We have no place for shysters in a Masonic Lodge. (Proceedings 1917, page 39.] RESTORATION, IN TRIAL LODGE ONLY. 18. A member of a Lodge who, on a plea of guilty to an indictment for forgery and embezzlement, was sentenced to the penitentiary for two years and received a pardon at the end ot eighteen months, petitioned for restoration. I was asked what is the procedure. Answer: I think it would be an exceptional case if the Lodge could afford to restore him, but the Lodge can judge the propriety of this action. Section ,;,25.0. of the Book of Constitutions provides the procedure. [Proceedings 1917, page 39.]
NAMES OF PETITIONERS MUST BE READ ALOUD. 19. . Complaint was made to R. W. Bro. A. J. O'Reilly, D. D. G. M., that路 the Worshipful Master of !taska Lodge No. 420, A. F. & A. M., refused to permit the reading of the names appended to a petition of a proposed new Lodge, submitted to !taska Lodge for its approval, when one of the "members of the Lodge requested that it be read. R. W. Bro. O'Reilly ruled that the Worshipful Master was in error; the names must be read. I approved the ruling. . [Proceedings 1917, page 40.]
, Proceedings of the
[Sept.
PRAYER CHAIN LETTER. .22. The Prayer Chain Letter: R. W. Brother W. C. Heck wrote me as fot'lowa: ''March 23, 1917. "You ,are doubtless famflfar with the 'Ancient Prayer Chain Letter', which has been going the rounds for some ,years. I, ~ave been getting them occasionally, but lately ha.ve received severa.l signed by Freemasons, stating that the .se~di~g was a ,Masonic request." , ,In my opinion this prayer chain letter savors of rank superstition ,and should meet with the condemnation of all Intelllgent people. [Proceedings 1917, page 41.] RESIDENCE-ESTABLISHED BY VOTING. 23. A question of residence. The petitioner for degrees has been In ~ew Ha.ven' since September 1, 1916, employed as school. teacher, and has been in the jurisdiction of Evergreen Lodge for the past six months and lived In this county all of his life. He was born In 'Harrison County and his parents reside at' Ridgeway. At the general electlonheld last 'November he voted, at New Haven, Should he not be re-elected as teacher .in our schools he wlll no doubt le'ave'here. . Question: Is he In the jurisdiction of New Haven Lodge, or in that of the Lodge Ridgew'ay?
at
Answer: The question of residence as defined In Section 113, Grand Lodge By-LaWS, is one of fact, in 'which the intention largely' controls. If the petitioner was entitled 'to vote at New Haven at your last general election, I would say he is eligible to petition your Lodge for the degrees. [Proceedings 1917, page 42.] NO PENAL JURISDICTION OUTSIDE OF MISSOURI. 24. A member of Center Lodge No. 147 of Marion, Kansas, requested Ingomar Lodge No. 536 of, Wlllow Springs, Mo., to' prefer charges against a. member of Center Lodge for a Ma.sonic of[ense committed, while In the jurisdiction of Ingomar Lodge, " and to prosecute the case ,to, Its finality. I. was asked it Ingomar Lodge ha~ authority . to eX,erclse penal jurisdiction in the case. . Answer: I am of the opinion that Ingomar Lodge has no jurisdiction In the' ,case, although the offense may have been committed within' tis ju~isdlction. See. Sec. 201 .(1908). The fact that Center Lodge requests Ingomar. Lodge to exercise penal jurisdiction In the case does not alter the law, because con- . sent can noL confer ;jur.isdictlon.' Authority to try the case must be found In our own law. [Proceedings 1917, page '43.]
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DEGREES MAY BE CONFERRED-BY WHOM. 25. The question of difference of opinion among the brethren of Mercer Lodge No. 35, almost amounting to friction, arose over the question of who is eligible to confer degrees. some contending that any. brother. who knows the work was the proper' person to preside in conferring degrees, while others contend that only the' Master, Wardens or some Past Master is eligible. Answer: Section 87, Grand Lodge By-Laws. authorizes the presiding officer 'to request the assistance of any .duly qualified brother in conducting the business or in conferring the degrees. I· think the clear meaning of this section is that the Worshipful Master may call any brother to the chair, or to any other station in the lodge, while a degree is being conferred, whether such brother be a Warden or Past Master, provided only he is competent to perform the ·work. I think this practice encourages the younger members to make themselves proficient in the work. I further think that it is good policy for the Master to encourage. proficient members to participate in the work of conferring degrees. [Proceedings 1917. page 44.] DEBT MAY BE INCURRED BY MAJORITY VOTE. 26. Sarcoxie Lodge No. 293 owed a debt of U:OOO. A resolution was offered setting aside the rent from the lower story, which amounts to $60 per month. for the purpose of paying the dE!bt and Interest. The resolution was read and laid over for thirty days, when it was carried by a majority of two votes. Question: Did the resolution require a majority of. a, >twothirds vote for its adoption. or was it an amendment to the ~yLaws? • Answer: This was a business proposition' and required only a majority vote for its adoption. It was in no 'sense an amendment to the By-Laws. [Proceedlrgs 1917, page 44.] PETITION FOR MEMBERSHIP-DIMIT MUST ACCOMPANY. 27. M. J. Williams removed from Kansas to Pollock,' MissourI. He petitioned Pollock Lodge No. 349 for affiliation. accompanying his petition with a receipt for dues in Liberty Lodge No. 123, Kan.sas. on which was endorsed a certificate of good Masonicstan'ding, and was elected to membership In Pollock Lodge. Liberty Lodge complained of this action on the part of Pollock Lodge. and claimed that Brother Williams was .still a member of Liberty Lodge. I ruled the petition of Brother Williams for affiliation should have been accompanied with a dim it from Liberty Lodge. without which the action of Pollock Lodge ,in electing him a member thereof. was unauthorized and void. Section 157 of our Grand Lodge By-Laws does not authorize a member of a lodge in another Grand Jurisdiction to transfer his 'membership to a'lodge In· this state without a dimlt. I therefore ordered that the action of' Pollock Lodge be set asIde. [Proceedings U17.page fri.]'
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DOTAGE-NO CAUSE FOR DIMIT. 28. A member of a lodge who is in his dotage applied for a dimit for the mere purpose ot withdrawing from the' Order. He Is a Past Master and had been active in the .Lodge for many years. He assigned as his reason that he is old and Masonry is not what . it u~ed to be and he can be as good a Mason out of the Lodge as in it. 'Question: Should the Lodge grant ·a dimit as requested? .Answer. For an old brother in such circumstances to sever the bonds of fraternal f~llowship is a tragedy. If he is in his dotage the dimit should not be granted. (Proceedings 11117, page 45.] SECRETARY-MUST PAY FEES TO TREASURER. 29. Should the Secretary of a Lodge turn over to the Treasurer the fee accompanying a petition for the degrees, or should he hold It until the ballot. Is tak€n upon the petition? Answer: It Is the 'duty of the Secretary to receive all moneys due the Lodge and pay them over to the Treasurer. The fee accompanying a petition for the degrees is due the Lodge and should be regularly paid over to the Treasurer. [Proceedings 1917, page 46.] STATUS OF CANDIDATE.
?fi/'
. 30. The following inquiry was submitted to R. W. Bro. A. J. ~O~Reilly, D. D. G. M.: Brother W. was Initiated in Herrin's Prairie Lodg'e, No. 639, of Herrin, Illinois, in 1909, and removed to St. Louis in 1910 without having been advanced. Desiring advancement he was advised by the W. M. of Trinity Lodge No. 641, St. Louis, that he should regularly petition for the degrees. His petition was accordingly presented, resulting in his rejection. What is his status? After corresponding with Herrin Prairie Lodge and learning the facts, R. W. Brother O'Reilly ruled that the candidate was a member of that Lodge, but not in good standing; that Trinity Lodge had no jurisdiction; that its action in receiving his petition and balloting thereon was unauthorized. The ruling of W. Brother O'Reilly is approved. Undoubtedly the actio,n taken by Trinity Lodge was due to a misconstruction ')f Section 107 of the Grand Lodge By-Laws. [Proceedings 1917, page 46.] PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS. 31. Mountain Grove Lodge No. 158 r.equested Tucumcari Lodge No. 27, N. M., to confer the degrees on a candidate who had' been elected br Mountain Grove Lodge to receive the degrees. I forwarded this request to the M. W. Grand Master of New Mexico, who. later wrote me, inclosing a letter from the Secretary of Tu-
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r
cumcari Lodge, stating that "in the preparation of the candidate we discovered that his left leg had been taken off at or just below the thigh, and that he had a cork leg. We were somewhat at a loss just what to do, but being satisfied he could conform to all the requirements of an E. A., we conferred that degree upon him. However, we are not so satisfied that he, can conform to all requirements in the remaining degrees. In this connection will call your attention to case No. 14, page 236, Grand Lodge Proceedings 1916. This .. case, however, differs from our case, in that the can-' didate had lost his left leg below the knee, but you will note the decision states 'that a man who has lost the left leg below the knee and wears a cork leg is eligible if able to conform to the ceremonies'." Referring this letter to Mountain Grove Lodge, the Secretarr, wrote me that the Investigation Committee reported that the candidate used a cork leg jointed in the knee. I then wrote the M. W. Grand Master of New Mexico, quoting Section 106 of the Grand Lodge By-Laws, and stated that if the candidate were not able to conform to the ceremonies then he should not have received the first degree. That if the examining committee of Mountain Grove Lodge overloo;ked his physical disqualification, it was, their fault, and not that of the candidate, and that if the' candidate, was not provided with a cork leg with a fiexible knee joint he will, not be entitled to advancement until he provides himself with such artificial limb. [Proceedings 1917, page 46.] PETiTION FOR MEMBERSHIP-DIMIT MUST ACCOMPANY. 32. R. W. W. I. Stuart, D. G. M., of the Grand Lodge of Kansas, complained to me of the action of Lowry City Lodge No. 403 In electing,"B,rother John P. Earhart, a member of Wetmore Lodge No. !iSO, We:tmor~, Kansas, to membership in Lowry City Lodge, without having taken a dimit from Wetmore Lodge, in violation of the law's of the Grand Lodge of Kansas. I corresponded with tbe Secretary of Lowry City Lodge and learned that Brother Earhart p,etitloned Lowry City Lodge for affiliation, and accompanied his petition with a certificate of good Masonic standing in Wetmore Lodge, which was not addressed to any Lodge. I ordered Lowry City Lodge to set aside its action in electing Brother Earhart' to membership therein, which was' promptly done, and communicated my action to R. W. Brother Stuart, D. G. M. ,0(; Kansas. The action of Lowry City Lodge' would have been unauthorized under Section 157 of the Grand Lodge By-Laws, even if Brother Earhart's membership had been in a MissourI):fodge. [Proceedings 1917, page 147.] , "
INVASION OF JURISDICTION. 34. J. 路S.: 'G~~~orn, ,an attorney at law. had been a resident o'f Caruther'sville, ,in路 Pemiscot路County. Missouri, for ten or twelve years. He removed with his family to St. Louis, Missouri, April. 6, ~915. where" he i:~ngaged in the practice of his profession.
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[Sept.-
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On 'February 3, 1916,' he petitioned Missouri Lodge No. I, A. F. & A. M., for the degrees. He was elected and received the degrees -of E. A. and' F. , Afferwards, on August 14, 1916, Caruthersville Lodge No. 461; A. F. & A. M., complained to Missouri Lodge No. 1 that Brother Gossom was a resident of Caruthersville' at the time he peti-tloned for the degrees, and that Missouri Lodge had - invaded its jurisdiction. -By mutual consent the two Lod'ges referred - the matter to M.'W. Brother Frank R. Jesse, then Grand Master of Missouri, for decision, who, on his retirement from office, r'eferred the matter "to me' as unfinished business. I have submitted the matter to R. W. Bro. A: J. O'Reilly, D. D. G. M. of the Thirty-third District, and to R. W. Bro. Virgil P. Adams, D, D. G. M. of the Fifty-first Distri'ct; forinvesitgation, who have each submitted reports. R. W. Brother - O'Reilly has made a very thorough investigation of the facts and sUQmitted much evidence in support of his' conclusion, ,- There are many facts and circumstances in evidence in the report submitted by R. W. Bro. O'Reilly to support his conclusion tha.t Brother Gossom was a bona fide resident of the City of St. Lo'uls at the time he petitioned Missouri Lodge No. 1 for the degre'es, and I concur in路 his judgment. 'I therefore hold that Brother Gossom wa,s within the jurisdiction of Missouri'Lodge No. 1 on February 3, 1916, when it received his' petition, and that ,it did not invade th'e jurisdiction of Caruthersville Lodge ,No. 461. [Proceedings 1917, page 48.]
,c.
LODGE' WAIVING JURISDICTION-SHOULD
/
REQUEST FEES.
,35. Four candidates, residing within the jurisdiction of West View Lodge No. 103, petitioned Trowel Lodge No. 440 for the degreeJ;.' West View Lodge waived jurisdiction on condition that Trowel Lodge pay the fees for the degrees to West View Lodge. Question: Should Trowel Lodge pay the fees _to West View Lodge or can the latter Lodge require, that the fees for the degrees be paid to it as, a condition of waiving jurisdiction? Answer: The fees should be paid to West View Lodge. That Lodge could make 'this requirement, as a condition of waiving 'jurisdiction.' . ' '" [Proceedings 1917, page 49.] " E. A.-ENTITLED TO CERTIFICATE OF DIMISSION. 36. An ent~red apprentice having removed out' of the jurisdiction of ,l!is Lodge, makes application for membership on certificate of good standing as such. This was done under Section 163. Some brothers claim an entered apprentice can not dimit, claiming an amendment to this effect. How about it? Answer: I find no amendment to Section 163, Grand Lodge ByLaws. "'A'ii' entered apprentice is not entitled to a certificate of 81006 standhi'g,but if he has removed out of the jurisdiction of his Lodge he' is' entitled' to a certificate of dimission. 'See Section 109. By Section 157, a' member who desires to transfer "his membership ~to
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Grand ~odge of-Missouri
another Lodg~ in, this jurisdic,tlon may do so upon a certifieate, 路of good standing, as provided in said. section. This has no application to an E. A. or F. C. It only applies,to Master' Masons. [Proceedings 1917, page 49.] PETITION-CAN NOT BE WITHDRAWN. ' 37, A man makes application for the degrees, two of the committee report on it the night it is presented, reporting favorably. I satisfy myself that the man will not pass the ballot, and to save the man's father, who put in the petition for his boy, humiliation (the father Is a good man, a good Mason and a K. T.), I advised him to withdraw it, and advise the DOy, to form better associates than those he had. The father thanked me, saying that I,had act~d ,as a ,Mason should; he appreciated me warning him and not allowing it to reach the ballot. He withdrew the petition. I allowed him 'to do this under Sectio'n 102, Art. VIII. The Master and . others ,say I had no right to do this and 'tpat the petition is not ,withdrawn. How about it? Answer: The petition can not be withdrawn after it has been referred to the committee. Section 102, Grand L9dge By.-Laws, as amended, 1914,. p. 157. [Proceedings 1917, page 50.] PROPER FE~ FOR LIFE MEMBERSHIP. 38. Cambridge' Lo.dge No. 63 writes: "Several of our brethren express' a desire to pay a life membership ,fee in the Lodge., Our By-Laws make no provision for such a payment; although in the Constitution we find there is such a section permitting L9dges, to make such a provision. We would, like to have some idea as to grade same, whether there should 'be a fixed amount regulated according to age. Our annual dues are $5.00. u Answer: Section 151, Grand Lodge By-Laws, needs no constru'ction. So far as my information goe's, all Lodges charge annual dues. Some exempt members from dues after the member, attainE. a certain age, or,' after one has been a member of the Lodge for so many years and attains' a certain age. But in' all these cases the Lodge will have to pay the Grand Lodge dues. I think Section 151 authorizes a Lodge to ftx a deftnlte lIum. which, when paid, would be in full for all dues in the future. For instance, if a member is 50 years of age, and dl,1es are $1.00 per year, according to the mortality tables found in R. S. Mo. 1909. Section 8499, based upon the member's expectancY. the net value of the income for th'e remainder of his life would be $10,631. Your dues being $5.00 per路 year, he could pay your Lodge five times that sum and be acquit for the rest of his life. [Proceedings 1917, page 59.]", CERTIFICATE OF GOOD STANDING-REFUND OF DUES. 39. Forsythe Lodge No. 453 issued a certificate of good standing to a member on May 18 whose dues were paid to July 1. He petitioned Pleasant Hope Lodge 467 for affillation and was elected a
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-[Sept.
member June, 28, and Forsythe Lodge was notified;, At: its 'next meeting, July 7, Forsythe Lodge Issued a dimit,but- 'datrned :d'1ies for the month of July. r Answer: According to Section 157, Grand Lodge By-Laws, the petitioner became a member of Pleasant Hope Lodge when Forsythe Lodge issued his dimit. He should pay Forsythe Lodge for dues for July. A fraction of a month is taken as a whole month. Sec. 146. [Proceedings 1917, page 51.]. CANDIDATE-STATUS OF. â&#x20AC;˘ 0. A candidate was initiated, passed and raised in Cosmos Lodge No. 282, and removed to Champaign, Illinois, before he was lectured. Can Cosmos Lodge request the Lodge at Champaign, Illinois, to lecture and examine him in open lodge as to his proficiency on the first section of the third degree? And if the Lodge at Champaign shall report to Cosmos Lodge that he has passed a satisfac. tory examination, will the brother be entitled to a ,dimitfrom Cosmos Lodge? Answer: Yes. [~roceedings1917, page 51.] . PETITION FOR MEMBERSHIP-DIMIT MUST ACCOMPANY. 41. Myrtle Lodge No. 338 vs. Cowgill Lodge No. 561. Brother H. K. Thompson, a member of Myrtle Lodge, petitioned Cowgill Lodge for affiliation and was elected a member thereof September 1,1906. His petition was not accompanied bya dimtt or certificate of¡ good standing. The records of Myrtle LOd;ge failed to show that either was ever issued. Cowgill Lodge paid the Grand Lodge dues on Brother Thoclpson for the yearS 1907 to 1916, inclusive, '$12.50. Myrtle - Lodge suspended Brother Thompson for $18;76 delinquent dues. Myrtle Lodge claims that Brother Thompson is still a 'member of that Lodge. Decision: On this state of facts the' action of Cowgill' Lodge in electing :Brother Thompson a member by affiliation was null and void. I ordered Cowgill Lodge to pay over to Myrtle Lodge- 'all dues paid by Brother Thompson, and, as Cowgill Lodge had paid Grand Lodge dues to the amount of $12.50 on Brother Thompson when he was not a member of that Lodge, I ordered a Grand Lodge warrant drawn in favor of Cowgill Lodge for that sum. ' [Proceedings 1917, page' 52.] RENTING PROPERTY TO LIQUOR DEALER. 42. Section 182, Grand Lodge By-Laws, does not prohfblt a Master Mason from renting property to' a liquor dealer. [Proceedings 1917, page 62.]
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CERTIFICATE OF· GOOD STANDING E. A. OR F. C. 43. Marceline Lodge No. 481 granted the following certificate to an Entered Apprentice who remo.ved to New Mexico: "To Whom It May Concern: "This· is to certify that Jesse F.· Mathis was initiated in this Lodge and is in good standing. At his request and at a Stated Communication of Marceline Lodge No. 481, A. F. & A. M., held December 27, 1910, by unanimous consent he is granted this Waiver of Jurisdiction (or certificate of dimission), whereby he may apply to any· Lodge in the Jurisdiction he may reside." By order of the Lodge, (Lodge Seal) L. E. Pancost, Sec'y.
Brother Mathis applied to Temple Lodge No. 6 of New Mexico, SUbmitting the foregoing certificate with his application. The M. W. Grand Master of New Mexico inquires as to the status of the Brother in Missouri, he being of the opinion that an Entered Apprentice can not sever his membership except by a dimit, and that a dimit can not be granted except to a Master Mason. That therefore the proper procedure is for the Entered Apprentice to request his own Lodge for advancemen't, and, if granted, his Lodge, through the proper Grand Officers, should request the Lodge where he is located to confer the degrees. That when he becomes a Master Mason he is entitled to/ a dimit and not until then. I replied to the M. W. Grand Master that the certificate issued to Brother Mathis by Marceline Lodge No. 481 is a Certificate of Dimission under our law and authorized by Section 163 of the Book of Constitution (1908), and entitles him to petition a Lodge in any Grand Jurisdiction or affili~tion. [Proceedings 1917, page 52.] ·CERTIFICATE OF DIMISSION. To Whom It May Concern: This is to certify that Brother . was initiated an Entered Apprentice on the day of ......... : , 19.... (and passed to the degree of Fellow Craft on' the day of , 19 ) in this Lodge and is in good standing as such, on the date hereof. At his request and at a Stated Communication of Lodge No , A. F. & A. M., located at , Missouri, held on the day of , 19 , he is , granted this Waiver of Jurisdiction (or certificate of dimission), whereby he may apply to any Lodge in the Jurisdiction in which he may reside. ' By order of the Lodge, (Lodge Seal) ..................... , Secretary.
..
·Form for· Certificate of Dimission recommended by Committee on Jurisprudence and adopted by the Grand Lodge. [Proceedings 1917, page 269.]
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[Sept.
FEE FOR qONFERRINGDEGREE NOT OBLIGATORY. 46. Cosmos Lodge No. 282 conferred the degree of Master Mason on a proficient Fellow Craft of Keystone Lodge and, insisting that it was' an act of courtesy and that it felt honored in being able to serve her sister Lodge, declined to accept a check for $5 from Keystone Lodge for conferring the degree as provided in Section 166, Grand Lodge By-Laws. Cosmos Lodge asks: 1. Is Section 166, Grand Lodge By-Laws, mandatory? 2. If yes, will you kindly so instruct Cosmos Lodge? Answer: I do not think it ever was intended that a Lodge conferring degrees at the request of another Lodge might not do so as an act of courtesy. Section 166 requires the requesting Lodge to pay the Lodge conferring the degree $5 for each degree conferred, but it does not require that the Lodge conferring the degrees at the request of another shall accept the fees. [Proceedings 1917, page 55.] RESIDENCE OF SOLDIERS. A large number of young men from the different Lodges in Missouri were taken during the year to serve their country, and mobilized in the cantonments in various parts of the United States. Many of them desired to receive their degrees before being transferred overseas. I decided that these young men should have the privilege of petitioning their home lodges in cases where they had no intention of permanently removing from the state, and were only absent temporarily serving their country. [Proceedings 1918, page .... ] I
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INDEX. Page Acquittal--Will not bar charg.e-:-.--: 190 Advance, failure to .. 164,171,',185.186 Aliens, eligible for the degrees, when 180,193 Amendments, time for consideration : 145 Amendments to .By-Laws.alteration or repeal. 1,,3 Amendments to By-Laws. adding section 1;;2 Appeals in Grand Lodge 156 Appeals to Grand Lodge, how taken 154 Appeals to Grand Lodge, testimony 154 Appeals to Grand Lodge, time for.l;;4 Appeals to Grand Lodge, notice of.15;; Appeals to Grand Lodge, recol·d .. 1" ~ Appeals to Grand Lodge, cost of .15f. ... A ppeals to Grand Lodge, objection to transcript 1;;6 Appeals and Grievance Committee, appearance before 146 Assessment, Improvement Fund .. · 142,181 Ballot, all must vote 153 . Ballot, collective, when prohibited 180 Ballot. may not be disclosed 172 Ballot, for Grand Lodge Officers. 144 Boards of Relief 142 Border Legislation 143 BI'other, unsound mind--cannot bring charges against. 181 Burial lot 143 By-Laws, adding section 1:'2 By-Laws, alteration or repeal. 153 By-Laws, Lodge must elect according to , .. 170 B~'-Laws, not amended by resolution 149 Candidate, may solicit. , " .. 169 Candidate, status of , . · ., .... 157-160,165, 174, 182. 196, 200 Candidates for political office .... 176 Candidates, list of 161, In Certificate of Good Standing and Refund of Dues 164.199 Certlflcate of Good Standing, aftel' expulsion ',' 172 Cel·tificate of Good Standing, from another Jurisdiction 185 Certificate of Good Standing, E. A, or F. C 185,201 Charges, cannot. be prefened by non-affiliate ',' 162 Charity, application for 14 4 Collective ballot on suspensions. prohibited 180 Conferences of Grand Masters. who may attend 144 Conferring degrees, forbidden 147 Consideration of amendments, time for 145 Correspondence, pi'inting reports on 146 Deaa, cannot be reinstated 185 Debts, Lodge shall not contract .. 1:'0 Debt, Lodge may contract. . · 150, 192, 19!1 Degrees, conferred on soldiers .... 202 Degree, failure to receive .... 157,160 Degrees. may be conferred by whom ' 195 Degrees, may not confer out of time : 175 Degrees, may not confer more than one : : .147 Deity, belief in, requisite , '. . 180
Page Digest of Laws, 143 Dimit. cannot be returned to Lodge 173 Dimisslon, E, A., form for 201 Dlmit. Entered Apprentice may .. · 179, 186, 198 Dimlt, in absence of charges ..... 166 Dlmlt, In old form, ilIegal. .. 165, 173 Dimit. rejection not endorsed on .. 177 Dimlt, to procure 163 Dimitted and removed, cannot affiliate .....................•... 170 Districts 54-55 and 58-39. change in 148 Documentarv, evidence, visitors . · ., ' , 153,172, 184' Dotage, no cause for dimit. 196 Dotage, when not in 189 Dram-shop license 177 Dropping from membership lJIegal 178 Drug store selling liquor 168 'Dues, failure to pay 1!l4 Dues, increase of , 168 Dues, receipts, form of , 151 Dues. accrue from date of instltuition 1 g2 Dues (back), Lodge may retain. 188 Dues. Refund of and Certificate of Good Standing 00 ... 164 Dues, remission of 161. 164 E. 'A.-form for certificate of dimission 201 E. A.-may dimit. ~ .179,186,198 E. A.--record lost, may re-petition 182 Easter Sunday, not a Masonic occasion 178 Election. cannot hold 179 Rlection, null and void 165, 188 Employment Bureau 151,169 Endowment Fund 1;;3 Examination. as to~ proficiency . · .. " , " .186, 187, 191 Exemplification of Work. at Grand Lodge 00 147 Expelled, may petition .. 175,182.185 Expulsion, Secretary must notify. 164 Failure to advance .. 164, 171, IS:>, 186 Failure to install. 00167 Failure to receive degree 157,160 Fee for conferring degree, not obligatory 202 Fees, In case of waiver 184 Fees, in case of life membersh ip. 199 . Funeral of a woman, may n9t attend 164 Funerals of Grand Officers 143 Funeral of Sojourner 182 Funeral service, at time of burial.191 Geo. Washington Masonic Nat'l Memorial Ass'n. . 145 Good Standing, certificate of . · 164.172.199 Grand Lecturer, salary of 149 Grand Lodge dues, inCl'ease of 152 Grand Lodge meeting. time and place 152· Grand Lodge Officers. ballot for. 144 Gl'and Lodge Reception Committee : , .. : 148 . Grand Masters. conferehce of 144 Grand·Secretary. salary of 149 Hall destroyed, Lodge may meet.'180 Hospital 146 Impostors, lists of ..............• 145 Infirmary ' ' 1H Install, cannot. under. char·ges 176" Install, failure to 167 Instruction, Lodge of 149 Invasion of .Turisdlction 197
204
Proceedings of the
Page Jurisdiction. Invasion of 197 Jurisdiction. St. Louis Lodges 171 Jurisdiction. territorial 189 Jurisprudence Committee 157 Legislation, by members only 146 Legislation (proposed) must be debated by lodges 147 , Lite membership. proper fee for.199 Liquor. advertising 174 Liquor. manufacture of 159, 188 Liquor selling 157.158 Liquor seiling (waiter) 168 I,odge, may not confer degrees out of time ,,175 Lodge. may meet when hall destroyed 180 Lodge, may not meet. where.167. 192 , Lodge meeting prohibited. when .. 16'5 Lodge, must elect according to By-Laws 170 Lodge seal. lack of 165 Lodge, shall not contract debts 150 Lodge. waiving- jurisdiction. should req uest fees 198 Lodges of Instruction ..........•. 149 Lodges U. D., dues accrue 182 Manual. library form ..' 147 Manufacture of liquor 159. 188 Masonic Home Improvement Fund ........................... 142. 181 Masonic Home Fund. payment of. 146 Masonic offense 150 Master Mason. non-proficient. . , .... , .. , .... ' ... , .166.168.186.191 Meeting of Lodge prohibited. when 16:, Membership. In other societies 180 Membership. restorat.ion of . ................... 162. 175. 182. IS5 Membership. transfer of 156. 1!i7 Memorial Day, not a Masonic occasion 179 Mileage and per diem. who may draw , , 152 Name of member. cannot change .179 Non-affiliate may not visit. 167 Non-affiliate may not prefer char$\'es 162 Non-affiliate may petition any Lodge 1G7 Non-proficient M. M. may not ballot 166.168 Non-resident, petltlnn of 171 Offense. Masonic 150 Penal Jurisdiction. in Missouri only 194 Per capita tax. not deducted 170 "Per capita tax. special 176 Petition. for affiliation. must. lie over 169 Petition of non-resident 171 Petition. cannot withdraw 151. 199 Petition for membership. dimit must accomo1'lnv ... 1:;6.195.197.200 Petition for nng-rees or affiliation, who ma~' or may not. .... 191 Petition for degrees. must ba Ilot on 189 Petition for reinstatement. amount owed 189 Petlt.loners' names. must be read aloud 193 Petitioners. U. D.. not qualified. when , 179 Physical qualltlcatlnns , . ............... 177,180.187.192.196 Political Issue. Lodge cannot take part In " 165. 174 Politics or rellg-lon ' , 183 Pool table, Lodge may buy 169 Prayer chain-letter 194
Protlclency ..... ,.,.,166, 168, 186,191
[Sept.
Page Proxy. entitled to mileag-e and per diem 184 Publication. candidates for politIcal office 176 Publication, candidates' names . ........................... 161,173 Publication. Digest of Law 143 Questions, referred to D. D. G. M's 147 Rank. entitled to " 187 Receipt must be issued by Secretary 179 Receipt for dues. form of 151 Reception Committee of Grand Lodge ...........•............ 148 Recommendation. by majority vote 190 Record lost. E. A. may re-petltlon.182 Rejection not endorsed on dimlt. .177 Religion or politics 183 Remission of dues 161,164 Renting property to liquor-dealer. 200 Reports of Committees. when presented 144 -Repol'ts of Grand Officers 14 4 Residence. soldler's 202 Residence, voting 166. 194 Resolutions. cannot amend ByLaws 149 Restoration. after consolidation of Lodge 162 Restoration. expelled member may petition for 175. 182. 185 Restoration, in trial Lodge only.', ........................... 171.193 Revision of By-Laws governing appeals 154, 155. 156 Roman Catholic. eligible to petlt.ion 192 Salary. G. S. and G. L 149 Saloon keeper from another jurisdiction 178 Saloon keeper. Lodg-e must try .. 176 Seal of Lodge, lack of 165 Secretary must issue r.ecelpt. 179 Secretary must notify ' 164 Secretary must pay to Treasurer. 1 96 Section 182 148 Secretary not entitled to Interest on Lod~e funds 179 Smoking. prohibited 142 Soldier. to petition, when 177,202 Status of candidate .. 157. Hi8. 159,160. 165.174.182.196.200 Suicide. entitled to Masonic buria1.180 Suspension more than one year ... 167 Suspension or expulsion. Secretary mus~·notlfy 164 Testimony. how taken 154 Transfer of membership 156, 157 Traveling actor Inelhdble 183 Trial. new. cannot grant. 188 Trial. on all specifications n'ot required 175 Trial. time and notice of 150. 174 Trial. In Lodge of highest deg-ree,154 Trials. testimony filed with Secretary ' 193 lTnsound mind. cannot bring charg-es against Bro. of ,181 Visitors. documentary evlnenc"l of ....................... 153, 172. 1R4 Vote, may not be disclosed 172 Vote. who may 166.168 'voting for Grand Lodge Officers. 144 Vote. all must 153 Waiver of Jurlsdlctlon 143.198 Washington Memorial' Association. 145 W. M. of new Lodge. who ma.y be.190 Worshipful Master, should wea.r hat 111 Worshipful Master. suspended from
offloe may visit .......•...•..•. 111
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