THE UNIVERSITY
OF ILLINOIS
LIBRARY
see. i
ILUNOIS HISTORICAL SORVtY
M. W. GRAND LODGE
OF ILLINOIS,
Ancient, Free, and Accepted Masons,
From the Organization of the first Lodge within
the present limits of the State, up to
and including 1850.
BY JOHN C. REYNOLDS,
W. M. Tyrian Lodge 333,
Deputy Grand Secretary.
BY AUTHORITY OF THE GRAND LODGE.
SPRINGFIELD.
H. fl. REYNOLDS, JR., PRINTER, MASONIC TROWEL OFFICI.
1869.
INTRODUCTION.
The importance of preparing a history of the Grand Lodge of Illinois
was first suggested by M. W. Bro. DILLS, in his address delivered to the
Grand Lodge, October 5th, 1858, as follows :
" I have obtained, during the year, the following information relative to the
existence of a former Grand Lodge of Illinois, but have failed to find any of the
records, although I have sought for them diligently. I visited E. W. Henry
^ H. Snow, who was D. G. Master as late as 1826, and who is now old and infirm
He informed me that there was a regular Grand Lodge of this State previous to
1827, and that to the best of his knowledge the time of its annual convocation
was in December; that the last meeting was held in the winter of 1827-8; that
grand officers were elected at that time, but that he does not now remember
who the Grand Secretary was, or in what part of the State he resided. He also
V stated to me that there were some ten or twelve Lodges working in the State at
the time, but that the following year, during the fiery persecutions which pre-
vailed in the country, the Grand Master died or removed, work was suspended,
• and never resumed.
" I have also been favored with a copy of the proceedings of the Grand Lodge
of Missouri for the years 1824 and 1825, from the W. M. of Franklin Lodge Is'o.
25, on the 18th page of which I find that their Committee on Foreign Corres-
pondence recognized an existing Grand Lodge of Illinois. This is about all the
information I have been able to obtain, and I now request the brethren of the
.subordinate Lodges in this State, or any brethren out of it, that if they can give
any information which pertains to the early history of Masonry in this State, to
communicate it to the Grand Secretary of this Grand Lodge, by whom it will be
.^l N^ thankfully received."
In speaking of the action of the Grand Lodge of Maine, in providing
3? for a history of Masonry in that State, the Committee on Correspondence
of 1858 remarked as follows :
"It seems to your committee that something of the kind should be attended
to in this State.
"Several of the Lodges on our present registry obtained their charters from
other jurisdictions, and as long ago as 1824 (and how long before we do not
know), a Grand Lodge existed in this State, which afterwards went down, or was
dissolved. After its dissolution, several Lodges in Marion, Montgomery, and
other counties in that region, became identified with the Grand Lodge of Mis
souri, and constituted a district, of which Bro. Boyakin, formerly a member of
our State Legislature, as late as 1847 was D. D. G. M. The history of the Lodges
4 INTRODUCTION.
subordinate to this Grand Lodge, since its organization, might be obtained
years hence, but the earlier and more fragmentary and scattered history will
soon be difficult to obtain ; and may be very difficult in some instances now."
The following resolutions were adopted at the session of 1858 :
Resolved, That the materials for a complete history of Masonry in the Terri-
tory and State of Illinois, from the organization of the first Lodge therein,
together with such biographical sketches and personal incidents as may be
worth preserving, ought to be gathered up and placed in our archives, so that a
historical volume may be issued when the Craft may desire.
Resolved, That the Grand Master appoint a suitable person for that service, to
be styled the Illinois Masonic Historian, who shall be fully authorized to gather
such materials together, and to call to his aid the services of such Masters,
Wardens, or Secretaries, as may be able to render him any service. All the
reasonable expenses of said Historian to be paid by this Grand Lodge.
No further action was taken until 1867, when M. "W. Bro. GORIN:
recommended as follows :
"A Grand Lodge was formed in this State in 1820. The Hon. Thomas C.
Browne, then and until 1848 a Justice of the Supreme Court, was President of
the Convention. Gov. Bond was the first Grand Master, and Hon. Wm. H.
Brown was Grand Secretary. This body virtually died in 1827. These distin-
guished brethren, with most others then engaged in the formation of the Grand
Lodge, are dead. The records of the first Lodge in the State, and a portion of
the proceedings of the Grand Lodge, are in our archives ; a portion are wanting.
In 1827 the Grand Lodge went down, and charters were granted to the Lodges
by the Grand Lodges of Kentucky and Missouri. For several years after this
Grand Lodge was formed, the Grand Lodge of Missouri held jurisdiction over
several Lodges in this State, and had a District Deputy as late as 1846.
" The history of the old Grand Lodge, of the Lodges subordinate to it, and
those subordinate to the Grand Lodge of Missouri until it ceased to exercise
jurisdiction over our territory, should by all means, and at any cost, be rescued
from oblivion. Several years since our Grand Secretary was appointed His-
torian, but, for reasons apparent to this Grand Lodge, he has not been able to
perform the duties; he therefore asks to be discharged from that duty, and I
recommend that the whole matter be placed in the hands of the Grand Master,
with full power to employ such assistance and take such steps as he may deem-
necessary, with power to draw on the treasury for all reasonable expenses."
The Committee on Grand Master's Address reported as follows :
"In relation to the recommendation of the M. W. Grand Master in reference
to the history of Masonry in this State, and that the matter be referred to the
M. W. Grand Master, with power to act, and to draw upon the treasury for all
reasonable expenses incurred, your committee recommend that the said sug-
gestions of the M. \V. Grand Master be adopted."
Which recommendation was adopted.
On the 10th day of October, 1867, the following appointment was
made :
INTRODUCTION.
,V. GRAND MASTER or
UECATUR, ILL., October 10th, A. D. 1867.
" OFFICE OF THB M. W. GRAND MASTER or THE Gr. LODOF. or ILLINOIS, 1
" To all whom it may concern:
"At the last annual communication of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, my recom-
mendation, that a suitable person be appointed to rescue from oblivion, as far as
may be possible, the history of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, and events con-
nected therewith, was approved, and the recommendation adopted.
"Now, therefore, in accordance therewith, and by virtue of the authority
thereby conferred, I have and do hereby appoint W. Bro. John C. Reynolds,
Deputy Grand Secretary, as the person to perform said work ; and I would fra-
ternally request a hearty co-operation on the part of the constituent Lodges
of this jurisdiction, and all individual brethren to whom he may apply, in the
work he has undertaken.
" Witness my hand and seal, the day and date above written.
(Signed) "J. R. GORIN, Grand Master." [Seal.]
And on the 7th day of October, 1868, this report was submitted.
Many have been the difficulties and perplexities attending the collec-
tion of material. Regarding the old Lodges, it was necessary to keep
constantly in sight the slightest cue as to their location, and from
whence they derived their powers, and then pounce down upon the
Grand Secretary of that Grand Lodge for information.
As to some of them, we despaired of ever obtaining any information
at all, but through some old publication, or the fortunate entry of some
literal Bro. Secretary, a cue was gained and the Lodge traced up. Two
or three, however, we can never gain any information of.
Our thanks are due to E. W. Breth. GEO. FRANK GOULEY, Grand Sec-
retary of Grand Lodge of Missouri ; WILLIAM HACKER, Past Grand Sec-
retary Grand Lodge of Indiana; J. M. S. McCoRKLE, Grand Secretary
Grand Lodge of Kentucky; A. G. HODGES, editor Kentucky Freemason,
and Grand Treasurer Grand Lodge of Kentucky; JOHN THOMSON, Grand
Secretary Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania; and JOHN FRIZZELL, Grand
Secretary Grand Lodge of Tennessee.
It is owing to the literal obedience required of the Lodges to be paid
to that portion of the charter requiring them to send up copies of their
records, that this history has been written. Why so laudable a practice
has been, discontinued is more than we can say, and it is not for us to
condemn or approve the same.
From E. W. Bro. HOUGH, Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of
New Jersey, the proceedings of the Grand Lodge of Illinois for 1824,
'25, and '26 were procured. He has, it seems, a printed copy — where he
procured it is unknown to us. He kindly furnished the Grand Secretary
with this copy some years ago.
The indulgence of the reader is asked, as this is the effort of one but
little versed in the art of book making. The work when undertaken
6 INTRODUCTION.
seemed to be of huge proportions, and we must confess that we have not
been disappointed in this respect.
We could not close this introduction without returning our thanks to
Breth. LEWIS KEYOX, of Peoria, JOHN "W. Ross, of Lewistown, D. D. G. M.,
and Bro. GEO. H. HARLOW, Assistant Secretary of State, for facilities
afforded us in the compilation of this volume.
Fraternally yours,
JOHN C. REYNOLDS,
W. M. Tyrian Lodge SSS,
Deputy Grand Secretary.
CHAPTER I.
The lirst lodge organized within the present limits of the State of Illi-
nois was at Kaskaskia, in the year 1805, by virtue of a dispensation from
the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. The precise date of the settlement
of Kaskaskia is a matter of uncertainty. One authority places it during
the year 1673 — another, twenty years later. Lippineotts " Pronouncing
Gazetteer" informs us, under the head of Kaskaskia, that " It has the
distinction of being the oldest town in Illinois, or perhaps the whole
Western States, having been settled by the French about the year 1673."
PERKINS ("Western Annals," Cincinnati, 1847), has the following:
"LA SALLE'S death," says CHARLEVOIX, in one place, " dispersed the
French who had gathered upon the Illinois;" but in another, he speaks
of TONTI and twenty Canadians as established among the Illinois three
years after the Chevalier's fate was known there. This, however, is
clear, that before 1693 the reverend Father GRAVIER began a mission
among the Illinois, and became the founder of Kaskaskia, though in
what year we know not; but for some time it was merely a missionary
station, and the inhabitants of the village consisted entirely of natives, it
being one of the three such villages, the other two being Cahokia and
Peoria. This we learn from a letter written by Father GABRIEL MAREST,
dated "Aux Cascaskias, autrement dit de 1'Immaculee Conception de la
Sainte Vierge, le 9 Novembre, 1712." In this letter, the writer, after
telling us that GRAVIER must be regarded as the founder of the Illinois
missions, he having been the first to reduce the principles of the lan-
guage of those Indians to grammatical order, and so to make preaching
to them of avail — goes on near the close of his epistle to say : " These
advantages (rivers, etc.,) favor the design which some French have of
establishing themselves in our village."
HOLMES, in his "American Annals," informs us, under date of 1703,
that "the French founded the town of Kaskaskia," and cites as his
authority Vol. XI., page 35, American State Papers. We have in vain
looked for that statement in the State Papers alluded to, there being no
such statement or shadow for it in said volume.
8 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
In Bradford's " Encyclopedia of Geography " we read as follows : "Some
settlements were made on the Mississippi by the French from Canada
toward the close of the 17th century, at which time Kaskaskia and
Cahokia were founded."
"The first Europeans who are certainly known to have discovered
and explored this river (the Mississippi), were two Frenchmen, Father
MARQUETTE and M. JOLIET, in the year 1673. MARQUETTE was a native
of Picardy." * » *
"On the 13th of May, 1673, Father MARO.UETTE and M. JOLIET, with
five other Frenchmen, embarked in two canoes, with a small provision of
Indian corn and smoked meat, having previously acquired from the
Indians all the intelligence they could afford respecting their proposed
route." (Sparks' Am. Biog., Vol. X.) The biographer then goes on to
give an account, collated from the writings of Father MARyuETTE, of
their journey down the Mississippi, until they arrived at the mouth of
the Arkansas, and their subsequent return and passage up the Illinois.
Accompanying this biography is a copy of MARQUETTE'S original map,
in which the river " Kaskasquias" is laid down. It was probably at
this time that the missionary station was founded, as the establishment
of such stations was the object of the voyages and discoveries of the
Jesuits.
We find no more mention of Kaskaskia until 1721. We quote from
Perkins' "Annals":
"But though the Company of the West did little for the enduring welfare of
the Mississippi Valley, it did something ; the cultivation of tobacco, indigo,
rice, and silk, was introduced; the lead mines of Missouri were opened, though
at vast expense and in hope of finding silver; and, in Illinois, the culture of
wheat began to assume some 'degree of stability and of importance. In the
neighborhood of the river Kaskaskias, Charlevoix found three villages, and
about Fort Chartres, the headquarters of the company in that region, the French
were rapidly settling."
The next mention is in the same work, as follows:
"Of the ten years which followed, we know but little that is interesting in re-
lation to the West, and of its condition in 1750, we can give no better idea than
may be gathered from the following extracts of letters written by Vivier, a mis-
sionary among the Illinois :
"Writing ' Aux Illinois,' six leagues from Fort Chartres, June 8th, 1750, Vivier
says : 'We have here whites, negroes, and Indians, to say nothing of crossbreeds.
There are five French villages, and three villages of the natives, within a space
of twenty-one leagues, situated between the Mississippi and another river called
the Karkadiad (Kaskaskias). In the five French villages are, perhaps, eleven
hundred whites, three hundred blacks, and some sixty red slaves or savages.
(Alas poor Illinois!) The three Illinois (native) towns do not contain more than
eight hundred souls, all told.'
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 9
"Most of the French till the soil; they raise wheat, cattle, pigs, and horses,
and live like princes. Three times as much is produced as can be consumed,
and great quantities of grain and flour are sent to New Orleans."
"The influence of the French settlers upon the native population, despite the
efforts of the missionaries, seems to have been bad, for we are told, that of the
three native towns, one was given up by the missionaries as being beyond hope,
And in the second and third, but poor harvests were experienced by them, all
owing to the ' bad example of the French, and the introduction by them of
ardent spirits.' " * * *
In 1770 Kaskaskia contained only sixty-five resident families, and
Cahokia only forty- five dwellings. Still, at that time one man furnished
the King's stores from his crop — 86,000 pounds of flour. * *
The reason for this decline in the population of Kaskaskia was its oc-
cupancy by the English and the emigration of the inhabitants to the
other side of the river, which was then under Spanish rule. But to quote
again: In Hutchins' "Topography of Virginia," we find it stated that
Kaskaskia contained 80 houses, and nearly 1,000 white and black in-
habitants, the whites being a little the most numerous. Cahokia is stated
at 50 houses, and 300 white inhabitants, with 80 negroes. This last calcu-
lation is made for 1771, and although Hutchins did riot publish his work
until 1778, we presume his calculations all apply to a period anterior
to the commencement of the Revolutionary War.
From 1775 until the expedition from Virginia under Colonel Clark,
by authority from Patrick Henry, Governor of that State, nothing is re-
corded regarding the Illinois settlements, beyond the following extract
from a report made by a Congressional committee in June 1788:
"Near the mouth of the river Kaskaskies there is a village which appears to
have contained nearly eighty families from the beginning of the late revolution.
There are twelve families in a small village at la Prairie du Rochers, and nearly
fifty families at the Kahokia village."
As has been before stated, Kaskaskia was at this time (1778) under
British rule, having been ceded by France to Great Britain in the year
1763. Col. George Rogers Clark determined to drive the British from
their western posts, and represented the matter in such terms to the
House of Delegates of Virginia, that the following order was issued :
" VIRGINIA, Set. In council, Williamsburg, Jan. 2nd, 1778.
"Lieutenant Colonel George Rogers Clark: — You are to proceed with all conven-
ient speed, to raise seven companies of soldiers, to consist of fifty men each,
officered in the usual manner, and armed most properly for the enterprise; and
with this force attack the British post at Kaskasky.
" It is conjectured that there are many pieces of cannon and military stores, to
considerable amount, at that place: the taking and preservation of which would
be a valuable acquisition to the State. If you are so fortunate, therefore, as to
succeed in your expedition, you will take every possible measure to secure the.
artillery and stores, and whatever may advantage the State.
10 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
" For the transportation of the troops, provisions, &c., down the Ohio, you are to
apply to the commanding officer at Fort Pitt, for boats; and during the whole
transaction you are to take especial care to keep the true destination of your
force secret: its success depends upon this. Orders are therefore given to Cap-
tain Smith to secure the two men from Kaskasky. Similar conduct will be
proper in similar cases.
"It is earnestly desired that you show humanity to such British subjects and
other persons as fall in your hands. If the white inhabitants at that post and
the neighborhood will give undoubted evidence of their attachment to this State
(for it is certain they live within its limits), by taking the test prescribed by law,
and by every other way and means in their power, let them be treated as fellow
citizens, and their persons and property duly secured. Assistance and protec-
tion against all enemies whatever, shall be afforded them; and the common-
wealth of Virginia is pledged to accomplish it. But if these people will not
accede to these reasonable demands, they must feel the miseries of war, under
the direction of that humanity that has hitherto distinguished Americans, and
which it is expected you will ever consider as the rule of your conduct, and
from which you are in no instance to depart.
" The corps you are to command are to receive the pay and allowance of militia,
and to act under the laws and regulations of this State, how in force, as militia. The
inhabitants at this post will be informed by you, that in case they accede to the
offers of becoming citizens of this commonwealth, a proper garrison will be
maintained among them, and every attention bestowed to render their com-
merce beneficial ; the fairest prospects being opened to the dominions of both
France and Spain.
" It is in contemplation to establish a post near the mouth of the Ohio. Cannon
will be wanted to fortify it. Part of those of Kaskaskia will be easily brought
thither, or otherwise secured, as circumstances will make necessary.
" You are to apply to General Hand, at Pittsburg, for powder and lead necessary
for this expedition. If he can't supply it, the person who has that which Captain
Lynn brought from Orleans can. Lend was sent to Hampshire by my orders,
and that may be delivered you. Wishing you success, I am, sir, your humble
servant.
"P. HENRY."
With these instructions, and twelve hundred pounds in the depre-
ciated currency of the times, Colonel CLARK started (on 4th February)
for Fittsburg. His intention was to recruit the seven companies east of
the Alleghanies, but was unable to do so, the people of that section of
country feeling the need of all their available militia. After much de-
lay and labor, Colonel CLARK started down the Ohio with three com-
panies instead of seven. On arriving at the falls of the Ohio he took
possession of and fortified Corn Island, opposite to the spot now occupied
by Louisville.
On the fourth of July, Clark and his party drew near Kaskaskia.
Concealing themselves until nightfall, they crossed the river and broke
into the quiet streets of that place like a troop of Indians on the warpath,
surprising and terrifying the people beyond description. To add to the
terror of the occasion, the people had been led by the British to believe
HISTOEY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS. 11
that the Virginians were the most cruel, bloodthirsty, and vengeful peo-
ple on the earth. Such was their belief in this statement that a d"epu-
tation waited upon CLARK and asked leave to assemble in the church
for a last farewell, previous to being carried into captivity.
The upshot of the whole matter was that CLARK informed them that
he and his men were humane and not savages, and explained fully the
condition of affairs between the States and the mother country. They
finally became so pleased with CLARK and his generosity, that they not
only declared themselves adherents of the State of Virginia, but per-
suaded the people of Cahokia to surrender and take the same pledges.
Thus, without the loss of a single life, and no bloodshed whatever,
Kaskaskia passed from the possession of the English into that of Vir-
ginia, thus experiencing a second change of masters. How different a
scene took place that very night in the beautiful Valley of the Wyoming.
On that same night, while the soldiers of CLARK scared the Kaskaskians
with pretended ferocity, the Valley of Wyoming echoed with real
shrieks of rage and pain, and swam with blood shed by white men; for
the leaders in that massacre were Tories.
In October following the reduction of Kaskaskia, the House of Dele-
gates of the Virginia Commonwealth, taking immediate advantage of
the same, created the county of Illinois, and appointed JOHN TODI>
Lieutenant Colonel and Civil Commandant, and on the 23d of November,
1778, CLARK and his men received the thanks of the House.
In the year 1800, the Territory of Indiana was formed.
1805-6-7.
On the 9th day of March, 1805, the following letter was addressed to
the E. W. Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania:
" To the R. W. Grand Lodge of Pcnnsylania— Greeting :
"The subscribers, and many others of our brethren in the counties of St.
Clair and Randolph, beg leave to approach your worshipful body and state to
you that they are far removed from those social enjoyments which they once as
Masons have experienced ; that from the growth of population many worthy
and respectable brethren have settled, and many more will soon come to this
country; and that your suppliants, from a sense of duty incumbent on them as
Masons and as men, to promote their mutual happiness, the happiness of their
neighbors, and as far as in their power lies, humanize society; and furthermore,
to impress on their memory what has long been written on their hearts.
Wherefore, your suppliants thus presume to approach your worshipful body
and request that, if in your councils you think it expedient, your worshipful
body will grant to your suppliants a warrant, or if that can't be obtained, a dis-
pensation, authorizing them to hold a regular Lodge in the town of Kaskaskia,
appointing such of your suppliants to preside therein as may seem proper to
your worshipful body, sending with the said warrant your constitution, all other
necessary instructions, and the amount of expenses attending the same, which
will be duly remitted by your suppliants, etc., etc.
(Signed) " ROBERT McMAHAN,
Stanton, No. IS.
WM. ARUNDEL,
St. Andrews' Lodge, No. $, Quebec.
JAMES EDGAR,
Lodge No. 9, Philadelphia.
MICHAEL JONES,
No. U5, Pittsburg.
JAMES GALBREATH,
No. 79, Chambersburg.
RUFUS EASTON,
Roman Lodge, No. 82, New York.
ROBT. ROBINSON,
Stanton, No. IS.
"INDIANA TERRITORY, KASKASKIA, March 9th, 1805."
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 13
To this letter, or petition, the following answer was made :
" We, Israel Israel, Esquire, R. W. Grand Master of Masons in and for the Com-
monwealth of Pennsylvania, and Masonic jurisdiction thereunto belonging:
" To all Free and Accepted Masons, wherever dispersed— Greeting :
" Reposing the greatest confidence in the zeal, fervor, and constancy in the
Craft of our worthy and beloved Bro. James Edgar, a Past Master, Ancient York
Mason, residing at Kaskaskia, in the Indiana Territory, in the United States,
and by virtue of the powers and authorities vested in us, we do hereby author-
ize and empower, and request him to call to his assistance a sufficient number
of known and approved Master Masons to open a Lodge at the town of Kas-
kaskia aforesaid, and then and there INITIATE, PASS, and RAISE FREEMASONS
according to the most ancient and honorable custom of the Craft in all ages and
nations throughout the KNOWN WORLD, and not contrarywise, and to make report
to us hereon endorsed of their proceedings. This Dispensation to remain in
force six MONTHS from the date hereof, and no longer.
"Given under our hand and the seal of the Grand Lodge
: Seal of the • at the city of Philadelphia, this 24th day of September, in
: Grand Lodge of • the year of OUR LORD 1805, and in the year of Masonry, 5805.
: Pennsylvania. | (Signed) " ISRAEL ISRAEL, Grand Master.
'• "Attest: (Signed) GEO. A. BAKER, Grand Secretary."
This dispensation being received, the Lodge was regularly organized,
and Freemasonry planted its foot for the first time on the soil of Illinois.
"We shall now go to the record of the Lodge for the proceedings under
dispensation :
" INDIANA TERRITORY, RANDOLPH COUNTT, 1
KASKASKIA, Saturday, 14th December, 1805, A. L. 5805. f
" In compliance with petition from sundry members addressed to the Grand
Lodge of Pennsylvania, a dispensation was forwarded by the Grand Lodge of
Pennsylvania, dated Philadelphia, 24th September, directed to Brother James
Edgar, authorizing him to take to his assistance a sufficient number of members
for the purpose of holding a Lodge in the town of Kaskaskia and vicinity, and
initiate such as may be approved by the members thereof into the mysteries of
Masonry, according to the Most Ancient and Honorable Custom of the Craft.
" Upon which the Worshipful Master, the said James Edgar, called to his assist-
ance Bros. Rufus Easton as Senior Warden, Michael Jones as Junior Warden,
Robert Robinson as Senior Deacon, Alexander Anderson as Junior Deacon, and
William Arundel as Secretary, all of whom he found on due trial to be Master
Masons.
"Whereupon, the Worshipful Master, and others above named, took their
seats, and an Entered Apprentice's Lodge was opened in due form.
"On motion,
"Ordered, That the naming of the Lodge be submitted to Bros. M. Jones and
Rufus Easton; whereupon it was agreed that this Lodge be styled and known by
the name of the 'Western Star Lodge,' Kaskaskia.
"On motion and seconded,
" Ordered, That a subscription be opened for the purpose of raising a sum suf-
ficient to enable the brethren to obtain a warrant and dispensation to institute ft
Lodge of Ancient York Masons at Kaskaskia, to be styled the Western Star
Lodge. The sums that may be subscribed by the brethren to be placed to their
14 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
respective accounts on the credit side of the same, and the Lodge to be debtor,
which sums so subscribed to be discharged in due proportion out of the first
moneys that may be paid into the treasury from initiation fees or otherwise.
The said subscription to be presented in open Lodge only, and to none except
such as now are or may become members of this Lodge.
"On motion,
" Requested, That Bros. M. Jones and R. Robinson be a committee to prepare
rules or regulations for the government of this Lodge, and to report the same
from time to time, for the approbation thereof.
" Whereupon, the Lodge closed in harmony, until the first Saturday in January
next, unless otherwise found necessary by the Worshipful Master."
The lodge worked under the dispensation thus granted until March
24th, 1806, holding meetings on December 14, 1805 (which is given in
full heretofore); December 27, 1805, at which no business was transacted ;
January 4, 1806, at which meeting the petitions of Andrew Henry,
Walter Fenwick, and George Bullett, of Ste. Genevieve, Louisiana Terri-
tory, were received and referred; January 16, 1806, at which a regular
code of by-laws was adopted. There is nothing of more than ordinary
character in these by-laws, and might be well adopted by some of our
Lodges of the present dny. The following signatures are appended to the
same: "James Edgar, Master; Michael Jones. Senior Warden; James
Gilbreath, Junior Warden; R. Robinson, Alex. Anderson, Wm. Arundel,
Secy.; Charles Querey, 3rd Feb., 1806; Walter Fenwick, 17th Feb., 1806;
George Bullitt, 17th Feb., 1806 ; John Hays, 18th Feb., 1806 ; John Hay,
18th Feb., 1806; Francois Vallee, Louis Lasouse Moreau, Stephen Foster,
and George Fisher, 1st March, 1806; A. Henry, 24th March, 1806; James
Moore, 1st Nov., 1806; Henry Dodge, 6th Dec., 1806; Thomas Oliver,
6th Dec., 1806; Benjamin Young, 3rd Jan., 1807; James Dunlap, 3rd
Jan., 1807; J. Finney, 10th Feb., 1807; David Robinson, Sr., 10th Feb.,
1807. These are the dates of their several initiations — commencing
with Charles Querey — as all Entered Apprentices were members of the
lodge, and all business transacted in that degree, save the conferring of
the second and third degrees, installation of officers, and trial of charge?
against members. The petitions of John Hay and John Hays, of
Cahokia, were received and referred at this meeting, and officers elected
as follows: Michael Jones, Senior Warden; James Gilbreath, Junior
Warden; Robert Robinson, Treasurer, and William Arundel, Secretary,
to serve during the dispensation. Feb. 1st, 1806, six brethren present
and three visitors: Francis, Moore, of Kentucky, No. 1; Robert Terry
and John Scott of Melchisidec Lodge No. 17, New Madrid, Louisiana.
Petitions of Charles Querey and Stephen Foster received and referred.
Walter Fenwick, George Bullitt, John Hays, John Hay, and Charles
Querey, elected.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 15
February 3rd, 1806. — Six brethren present, and brethren Moore and
Terry visiting. Charles Querey initiated, which was the first initia-
tion on record within the limits of our State — sixty-two years ago.
February 4th. — Six brethren piesent. Charles Querey passed, and,
on February 5th, seven brethren being present, Brother Querey wa»
raised.
February 17. — Five brethren, and two visitors, viz; Terry and William
Hickman, of Lodge No. 1, Nashville, present. Walter Fenwick and
George Bullitt, of St. Genevieve, duly initiated. Petitions of Francois
Vallee, Louis Lasouse Moreau, received and referred.
February 18. — Seven brethren and two visitors present. John Hay
and John Hays, of Cahokia, initiated.
February 19. — Five brethren and one visitor present. Brethren John
Hay and John Hays passed.
March 1st. — Stated meeting. Seven brethren and one visitor present.
Walter Fenwick and George Bullitt, passed. Petition of "Doctor George
Fisher," of Kaskaskia, received and referred. Francois Vallee, Louis
Lasouse Moreau, Stephen Foster, George Fisher, initiated.
March 10th. — " Extra Lodge." Seven brethren present. George
Fisher and Stephen Foster passed, and John Hays and John Hay raised.
March 16th. — "Extra Lodge." Seven brethren and three visitors pres-
ent. The visitors were Robert Terry, " Wm. Mitchell, of Lodge No. 7,
Natchez", Isaac Darnielle of the Lodge George No. 32, State of Vir-
ginia. Francois Vallee, Louis Lasouse Moreau, passed.
March 17th. — " Extra Lodge." Five brethren and one visitor (Isaac
Darnielle) present. George Fisher and Stephen Foster raised.
March 24th. — '•' Extra Lodge." Six brethren and two visitors (Francis
Moore, and " Thomas F. Roddick, Solomon Lodge No. 30") present.
Francois Vallee, Louis Lasouse Moreau, raised, and Andrew Henry
initiated, passed, and raised. This was the last meeting held under the
dispensation. The next meeting was held September 13th. In the
meantime the following petition had been prepared and forwarded:
" KASKASKIA, April 13, 1806.
" To the fi. H'. Grand Master and brethren of the R. W. Grand Lodge of Pa.:
"BRETHREN: — We the subscribers, members of a Lodge holden at Kaskaskia
under a dispensation granted by order of your worshipful body, in pursuance
of our former petition, beg to solicit a fulfillment of your promise contained in
your letter accompanied by your said dispensation, directed to Brother James
Edgar, of granting a warrant and dispensation to constitute a Lodge at Kaskas-
kia, to be styled the Western Star Lodge. Brothers James Edgar, Michael Jones,
and James Gilbreath, M. M., and formerly members of Lodges constituted under
the authority of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania (as will more fully appear
by a reference to the communications made to your worshipful body, by the
several Lodges of which they have been members) have been elected officers of
this Lodge, for the time being, to whom ttie warrant may issue. Assurances
16 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
having been given by Bro. James Edgar, that Bro. Robert Robinson has regularly
passed the chair, we do therefore desire that the dispensation for constituting
the Lodge may be directed to him. Your dispensation with our proceedings
endorsed thereon, as also the amount of your fees, you will find herewith en-
closed.
"We are R. W. Sir and Brethren, yours fraternally,
(Signed) " JAS. EDGAR, W. M.
MICHAEL JONES, S. W.
JAS. GILBREATH, J. W.
ROBT. ROBINSON, Treasurer.
WM. ARUNDEL, Secretary."
The following recommendations and certificate accompanied this-
petition :
" We the subscribers, formerly members of lodges constituted under the au-
thority of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, and present members of Western
Star Lodge at Kaskaskia, do recommend the prayer of the foregoing petition to
the consideration of the W. M. and members of the Grand Lodge of Pennsyl-
vania.
(Signed) "JAS. EDGAR,
MICHAEL JONES,
JAS. GILBREATH.
"Recommended by
" ANDREW WILSON, P. M. No. 9.
JOHN BOYD, P. M. No. 2.
JAS. WILKINS, P. M. No. 9.
" We do certify that Bro. Robert Robinson has proved himself to us, a P. M. of
a warranted lodge of Ancient Y. M.
(Signed) "JAS. EDGAR,
JAS. GILBREATH."
The action taken by the Grand Lodge was as follows :
"The return to a dispensation granted by the late R. W. Grand Master on the
2Hh of September last, directed to Bro. James Edgar, authorizing him to open
and hold a Lodge at Kaskaskia, in the Indiana Territory, in the United States,
for the term of six months from the date of said dispensation, was read; also, a
letter from Bro. Edgar, dated 14th April last, respecting their proceedings under
said dispensation, and also a petition from Bro. Edgar and several other
brethren who had been members of said Lodge held under the aforesaid dispen-
sation, praying for a warrant for holding a Lodge at Kaskaskia aforesaid, to be
called the Western Star Lodge, and that Bro. James Edgar might be named
Master, Bro. Michael Jones Senior Warden, and Bro. James Gilbreath Junior
Warden of the same.
"Which petition being duly recommended according to the regulations of this
Grand Lodge, 011 motion made and seconded,
" Resolved, That the prayer of the petitioners be granted, and that the Grand
Secretary make out warrant accordingly, and the same be numbered 107." —
[Extract from the proceedings of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, held at Philadel-
phia, Monday, June 3, 180>J.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS. 17
The warrant (or charter) was accordingly issued and forwarded, ac-
companied by the following:
"We, James Milnor, Esq., R. \V. Grand Master of Masons ill and for the Com-
monwealth of Pennsylvania, and the Masonic jurisdiction thereunto belonging:
" To Bro. Unfit. ]!<:il>>:i*<iii, a Pnxf J/KS/I /• M'.I.VJH — (!r<itin<i:
"Reposing the greatest confidence in your zeal, fervor, and constancy in the
Craft. We do, by virtue of the Powers and Authorities in Us vested, hereby
authorize and empower you to call to your assistance a sufficient number of
known and approved Past Master Masons to open and constitute a new Lo'dgo
at Kasknskia, in the Indiana Territory, in the U. S., and there to proceed to the
Installation of our worthy Bro. James Kdgar, Master elect, and other officers of
a new Lodge there to be established and (-(instituted, to be called the " Western
Star Lodge" number one hundred and seven, according to the most ancient
honorable custom of the Royal Craft in all ages and amongst all nations through-
out the known world, and not contrarywise, and make report to us hereon
endorsed of your proceedings. This dispensation to remain in force three
months from the date thereof.
"Given under our hand and the seal of the R. W. Grand
: . , ,. : Lodge of Pennsylvania, at the city of Philadelphia, this
: l.-'th dav of June, in the year of our Lord 180i>, and of
: Grand Lodge. : Mnsonry 580G.
(Signed) " JAS. MILNOR, Grand Master.
"Attest : OEO. A. BAKER, Grand Sccritnry."
Accordingly, on Saturday, 13th September, 1806, A. L. 5806, tbe Lodge
assembled.
Bro. Robert Robinson in the chair, who" called to bis assistance broth-
ers James Gilbreath, as Senior Warden; and William Arundel, Junior
Warden; when a Pcw.s- Masters' Lodge was opened, and Brother James
Edgar was installed the Worshipful Master of said (Western Star Xo.
107) Lodge. The Pass Masters' [Lodge] was closed and by virtue of a
warrant from the Right Worshipful the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania
dated the second day of June, 1806, creating the lodge at Kaskaskia, in
the Indiana Territory, called the Western Star Lodge No. 107, a Master
Masons' Lodge was opened in due form."
Bro. Edgar then installed Michael Jones, Senior Warden; James Gil-
breath, Junior Warden: William Arundel, Secretary; Robert Robin-
son, Treasurer and Senior Deacon ; George Fisher, Junior Deacon and
Steward. The by-laws under dispensation were adopted for the time
being, and the lodge closed.
On the twentieth of October the following was forwarded :
'• WKSTKRX STAR LODGE, No. 107.
"Agreeably to the within dispensation to me directed, to open and constitute
a new Lodge of Ancient York Masons, at Kaskaskia, and to install the \V. M.,
Bro. James Edgar, and others, the officers thereof, on the 13th day of September,
1806, I took to my assistance a sufficient number of known and approved Past
Master Masons, and proceeded to open and constitute a new Lodge under the
warrant of the R. W. Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, bearing date of the second
day of June. 1806, to the brethren here granted ;
—2
18 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
" Whereupon, the W. M., Bro. James Edgar, and the other officers of this Lodge
in the said warrant mentioned, were duly installed, and invested with the
ensigns of their respective offices, and the Lodge closed in due form.
(Signed) ROBERT ROBINSON,
Appointed to constitute Lodge No. 107.
KASKASKIA, Oct. 20, 1806.
October 4th. — Ten brethren and one visitor present. The visitor ou
this occasion was " Shadrach Bond, Jr., of Temple Lodge No. 26, Regis-
tcrstown, Baltimore county, Maryland." Petitions of " Captain James
Moore, of St. Clair county, Henry Dodge and Thomas Oliver, of Ste.
Genevieve, for initiation, and Shadrach Bond, for affiliation," received
and referred. Breth. Bullitt, Jones, Robinson, Fisher, Henry, and
Arundel, "or a majority of them," were appointed a Committee on
By-Laws.
November 1st. — Four brethren present. Lodge opened on first degree,
and " Captain James Moore initiated."
December 6th. — Seven brethren and three visitors (Thomas Fenwick,
John Scott, and " Otho Schrader, of Lodge No. 84, Somerset county,
State of Pennsylvania") present. Petition of Benjamin Young received
and referred. The first election under the charter was held at this
meeting, and resulted as follows: James Edgar, Worshipful Master;
Michael Jones, Senior Warden: Andrew Henry, Junior Warden;
Robert Robinson, Treasurer; William Arundel, Secretary; Francois
Vallee, Senior Deacon; George Bullitt, Junior Deacon. Henry
Dodge and Thomas Oliver initiated, and George Bullitt raised. Breth.
Edgar, Robinson, and Arundel were appointed a committee of arrange-
inents for a festival on St. John's Day.
December 27th. — Thirteen brethren and six visitors present. The
visitors were Robert Terry, Thos. F. Reddick, Otho Schrader, "John
Hapburn, of No. 12, Maryland," "Dr. A. Elliott,"." William Mitchel,
No. 23, Ontario Lodge, State of New York.'' Bro. Shadrach Bond was
elected to membership. Petition of a number of brethren at St. Gene-
vieve for a Lodge, was duly recommended. Of this Lodge the "Dr.
A. Elliott" mentioned above was the first Master; Andrew Henry
Senior, and George Bullitt Junior Wardens, both of the Lodge at
Kaskaskia, but residents of Ste. Genevieve. No mention is made of the
festival, but that they did celebrate St. John's day, is to be judged from
the following entry: "Not having time to enter sundry proceedings,
at this moment, Ordered, That they be entered at length on record by
the Secretary," which that officer failed to do.
January 3d, 1807. — Seven brethren and one visitor ("Dr. James Dun-
lap, of St. Paul's Lodge No. 54, or 64, State of New York") present.
Petition of James Fiuney for initiation, and " Doctor James Dunlap"
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 19
for affiliation, received and referred, the latter being acted on instanter,
and Bro. Dunlap elected to membership. Benjamin Young initiated.
January 5th. — Six brethren present. Benjamin Young passed.
January 7th. — Eight brethren present. Petitions of Henry Connor
and Truman Tuttle received.
February 10th. — Eight brethren present. James Finney and David
Robinson initiated. In the record of this meeting is the first record of
a lecture being delivered to the candidate : "Also, David Robinson, Sr.,
an applicant balloted for last Lodge night, received the benefit of the
first step in Masonry, returned and gave thanks for the same, and after
a wholesome lecture, the Lodge closed," etc.
March 7th. — Twelve brethren and one visitor (" Josiah Millard, Frank-
lin Lodge No. 37, Slate of New York, introduced as a Master Mason")
present. Breth. Thomas Oliver, James Finney, and David Robinson,
Sr., passed. These passings were, as the record shows, conducted separ-
ately, and not collectively. Benjamin Young raised. Petition of Jacob
A. Boyes received and referred.
March 21st. — Ten brethren present. James Finney and David
Robinson, Sr., raised.
April 4th. — Twelve brethren present. Thomas Oliver raised, and
sundry accounts presented and allowed.
April 13th. — Eight brethren present. "Doctor Truman Tuttle" ini-
tiated.
May 2d. — Eight brethren present. No business of importance trans-
acted.
June 6th. — Present: James Edgar, W. M. ; Michael Jones, S. W. ;
Andrew Henry, J. W. ; R. Robinson, Treas. ; James Finney, Sec., p. t. ;
Francois Vallee, S. D. ; George Bullett, J. D. : James Gilbreath, Louia
Lasouse Moreau ; visitors, Robert Terry, William Hickman, "Wharton
Rector. Henry Dodge passed and raised.. The second election under
charter resulted as follows: Michael Jones, W. M. : Robert Robinson,
S. W. ; and James Finney, J. W.
June 15th. — Seven brethren present. Josiah Millard visiting. Jacob
A. Boyes initiated. Breth. Robinson, Gilbreath, Dunlap, Fisher, and
Finney were appointed a committee to arrange for celebration of St.
John's Day.
June 24th. — St. John's Day. Fifteen brethren and two visitors present.
Bro. William Atcheson was admitted, upon petition, a member of the
Lodge. A L)dge of Past Masters having been opened, the Master and
Warden* were installed. The following appointments were made:
James Dunlap, Treasurer ; James Finney, Secretary; Francois Vallee,
Senior, and George Bullitt, Junior Deacons; George Fisher, Steward.
2 ) HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
" The brethren moved in procession from the lodge-room to Bro. Doctor
George Fisher's to dinner; returned, and the Lodge closed in harmony
at 4 o'clock."
July 4th. — Seven brethren present. No business transacted.
August 1st. — Eight brethren present. No business transacted.
August 2d. — Eight brethren present. Henry Connor initiated, and
Jacob A. Boyes passed.
Sept. 5th. — Six brethren present. A Lodge of E. A. opened. Petition
of Giles Hull received and referred.
Sept. 19. — Seven brethren present. A communication from the Grand
Lodge read, but what the nature of the communication was is not stated.
October 3d. — Eight brethren present. Bro. Alexander Anderson de-
mitted, and ten dollars voted to the Secretary for services.
November 7th. — Nine brethren present. The members of the Lodge
residing at St. Genevieve were demitte^, they having cast their fortunes
with Louisiana Lodge No. 109, which was the first Lodge planted on the
soil of Missouri, the dispensation and charter for which (we think) ema-
pated from the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.
November 9th. — Eight brethren present. "Doctor Truman Tuttle"
passed.
November 20th. — Ten brethren present. Bro. Henry Connor passed,
and Truman Tuttle raised.
December 5th. — Seven brethren present. Third charter election; the
following were elected: Michael Jones (re-elected), W. M. ; Eobert
Robinson, Senior, and George Fisher, Junior Wardens. Upon motion,
the Treasurer and Secretary were elected by ballot, they having pre-
viously been appointed. William Arundel was elected Secretary, and
Doctor James Dunlap, Treasurer. James Finney and David Robinson,
Sr., were appointed Deacons.
Petition of Joseph McFerron received and referred, a committee
appointed to prepare for St. John's Day, and an invitation extended to
Louisiana Lodge to partake of the festivities of the day with them.
December 24th. — Seven brethren present. Henry Connor raised.
December 27th. — St. John's Day. Ten brethren and three visitors pres-
ent. Lodges of E. A. and F. C. were opened and closed, and a lodge of
Master Masons opened, and the officers installed. This is the first in-
stance of the installation of the Master without a lodge of Past Masters
having been opened. The lodge of M. M. was then closed and a lodge
of F. C. opened. Petition of "Thomas Todd, Esquire," received and re-
ferred. By a unanimous vote, the brethren proceeded to the house of
Bro. Doctor George Fisher, " Clothed," and there partook of refresh-
ments. No mention is made of the attendance of the brethren from "the
other side."
CHAPTER III.
1808-H-10..
January 2nd, 1808. — Eight brethren present. Messrs. McFerron and
Todd elected.
February 6th. — Eight brethren present. Bro. "Uriah Brooks, "West-
ern Star Lodge No. 59, South New York," visiting. Joseph McFerron
ami Thomas Todd initiated. Petition of "Doctor Caldwell Cairnes "
received and referred. The lodge had been in the habit of immediately
balloting upon petitions, upon which committees reported instanter; but
at this meeting resolved that all Detitions should lie over from one
regular meeting to another before balloting.
February 10th. — Eight brethren present. Joseph McFerron passed.
March 5th. — Eleven brethren present. Bro. Thomas Todd passed,
and Bro. Jacob A. Boyes raised.
March 17th. — Six brethren present. Joseph McFerron raised.
April 2nd and May 7th. — Six brethren present. No business beyond
•opening and closing.
June 4th. — Present: Jones, Robinson, Gilbreath, Arundel, Dunlap,
Fiuney, David Eobinson, Edgar, Connor; Jacob Fisher, visiting. Fourth
election — Robert Robertson, elected W. M.; James Gilbreath, S. W. ;
George Fisher, J. W. ; James Dunlap, Treasurer; William Arundel,
Secretary. Petition of Philip Fouke received and referred. "Distant
members" ordered notified to attend on the 27th June. Immediately fol-
lowing this, record is made by the Secretary, to the effect that notifica-
tions for brethren Todd, Bond, Boyes, and Rector, were sent by Bro.
Rector's son, June 13th. Notifications to brethren John Hay, John
Hays, William Atcheson. Dr. Truman Tuttle, and citations to brethren
Benjamin Young and Captain James B. Moore, sent under cover to Bro.
John Hays, Cahokia, by "Mr. Joseph Charless, printer, on his way to
St. Louis to purchase material."
June 23d. — Thirteen brethren present. "Doctor Caldwell Cairnes"
initiated, and Thomas Todd raised.
'22 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
June 24th. — St. John's Day. Eighteen brethren and three visitors
present. The visitors were "James Henderson, of Lodge No. 234, County
Tyrone, Ireland — a Sergeant in the United States army — Master Mason,
and Past Master. Michael Immael, of Lodge No. 79, Chambersburgh
(Pa.), and Jacob Kimble, Louisiana Lodge No. 109/' both lieutenants in
the United States Army, and stationed at Fort Chartres. The officers were
duly installed (a Lodge of Master Masons being opened), and it is pre-
sumed a banquet was held — but no mention is made. A code of by-
laws was adopted at this meeting, of which the following synopsis is
given:
" BYE-LAWS FOR THE GOVERNMENT OF THE WESTERN STAR LODGE No. 107, ADOPTED ST.
JOHN'S DAY, 2lTH JUNE, A. L. 5808, AT KASKASKIA:
" WHEREAS, It is essential to the Beauty, Harmony, and Strength of our Ancient
Society that the Laws and Regulations for the government of every Individual
Lodge be established agreeably to the first Principles, and also that those first
Principles be declared in the Regulations, as well to keep them in perpetual
remembrance by the members of the Lodge, as to give information to all who
may be desirous to join themselves in the bond of Masonry:
"Be it therefore known. That to become a Brother of our Ancient Craft, a belief in
the ETERNAL CJoo as the Great Architect of the Universe is the first Great Essential.
"A Mason is to observe the moral law, and in no case to act against the great
ID ward light of his own conscience.
" He must avoid the errors of bigotry and superstition, making use of his own
reason according to that liberty wherewith he is made free.
"He must allow liberty of conscience to all men ; having Charity and Brotherly
Love for all.
"He must be a good citizen of the State in which he lives, as his obligations
thereto will be greatly enforced by his duty as a Mason. He is to be a lover of
quiet, and obedient to the civil powers, so far as they infringe not his bounds of
reason.
" Treason he must not be concerned in, nor privy to plots against the State, but
consider the welfare of his country the peculiar care of a Mason. He must be
industrious, and not eat any man's bread for naught.
" He must endeavor to abstain from all malice and slander, and cheerfully obey
those set over him, on account of their superior qualifications, however they may
be inwardly ranked, for as a Free and Accepted Mason, pre-eminence of virtue
and knowledge he is to consider as the only standard of true nobility.
"He must know himself capable of keeping secrets, as it is conferred upon him
by the strongest obligations.
" He must be free born, of the age of twenty-one years, of good report, of suffi-
cient natural endowments, with the sense of a man, with an estate, office, trade,
or occupation, or some known way of acquiring an honest ' livelyhood.' He must,
be upright in body, not deformed or dismembered, but of hale and entire limbs,
as a man ought to be.
"And for the more immediate well ordering and conducting of this Lodge, it is
hereby ordained by the Muster, Wardens, and brethren thereof, at this their
communication."
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. :>«
Section 1. Provides that the meetings shall be held on the first Satur-
day of each month, from seven to ten o'clock between March 25th and
September 25th, and from six to nine between September 25th and March
25th.
Si>c. 2. Provides for election of officers — Worshipful Master, Senior and
Junior Wardens, and Treasurer.
Sec. 3. Provides that, with the consent of the Lodge, the W. M. may
appoint two Deacons, the Secretary, and a Steward, and provides that if
either of the brethren so appointed shall refuse to serve, he shall pay
one dollar, unless he had served in a similar office before, in which case
the W. M. made a new appointment.
Sec. 4. Provides for the duties of the Treasurer — all the receipts of
the Lodge being paid directly to him.
Sec. 5. In a like manner defines the duties of the Secretary.
Sec. 6. Provides for proper order and decorum when the Master takes
the chair, and while the Lodge is in session.
Sec. 7. Provides for the manner of putting and deciding questions
before the Lodge.
Sec. 8. Provides that a brother may call for the previous question,
and the question put, if the motion is seconded and thirded.
Sec. 10. ''No brother shall rise to speak or interrupt another addressing
the Master, unless to call to order; or if any shall mock, deride, or
endeavor to ridicule any brother whilst speaking, or while the Lodge is
sitting, he shall, on conviction by a majority of the members present,
forfeit and pay for the first offense five dollars, and ask pardon of the
Lodge and of the offended brother ; for the second offense he shall forfeit
and pay ten dollars, and ask pardon of the Lodge and the offended
brother; for the third offense he shall forfeit and pay fifteen dollars, an<i
ask pardon of the Lodge and the offended brother, and for the fourth
offense shall be expelled, and not be re-admitted without the unanimous
consent of the Lodge, to be given either by ballot or otherwise, as the
Lodge shall determine, and shall pay twenty dollars to the charity fund "
Sec. 11. Provides that the Master shall be the judge of all questions
of order.
Sec. 12. Provides that a brother cursing or swearing, or holding an
angry dispute, shall be subject to the same penalties as prescribed in
section ten.
Sec. 13. That no brother shall improperly harass by suit or suits at
law, any other brother of this or any other Lodge, but shall at all times,
whenever a dispute exists, give a fair and reasonable opportunity of
settling the same in an amicable manner.
Sec. 14. Provides that any brother revealing any of the transactions
of the Lodge shall be fined fifteen dollars, or be expelled, and if expelled,
should " not be re-admitted at all."
-24 HISTORY OF M ASON R Y IX I LLTNOIS.
Sec. 15. Provides for the appointment of a Tyler, and defines bis
duties. In the Tyler's absence the duty devolved upon the "youngest
brother present to tyle the Lodge, who shall do the duty of Tyler without
reward, under the penalty of five dollars, unless sufficient re;iM.m bo
assigned.
Sec. K). Appropriated all fines and forfeitures to the charity fund.
Sec. 17. Provided that each and every member pay one dollar and
eighty-four cents at each festival of St. John the Evangelist, one dollar
for the Charity Fund, and eighty-four cents for the Grand Lodge. The
penalty for non-payment of dues was expulsion; provided, two-thirds of
the members present concurred in such motion. Provides for the with-
drawal of members, and serving of notices on members delinquent.
Sec. IS. Provides that every brother and visitor shall pay to the Treas-
urer before retiring from the lodge room, twenty-five cents for refresh-
ments; and every absent brother was liable to a like charge.
Sec. 19. In regard to visiting brethren.
Sec. 20. Provided for the affiliation of members, and the fees therefor.
If a Master Mason wished to affiliate, the fee was four dollars : if an F. ('.,
eight dollars ; if an E. A., ten dollars, which fee in the latter case probably
entitled the brethren to advancement; one half of such fees to the char-
ity fund, and the other to the contingent fund.
See. 21. Provided for the reception, referring, report upon, and balloting
upon petitions for initiation, and the fees. The brother initiated paid ti>
the charity fund eight dollars, to the contingent fund eight dollars, to the
Secretary one dollar, one dollar to the Tyler, and one dollar for the Grand
Lodge clues — nineteen dollars, which sum it is supposed included the de-
grees of F. C. and M. M.
Sec. 22. '• Xo monies shall ever bo taken from the charity fund to pay
any contingent expenses of the Lodge, without the consent of two-thirds
of the brethren present."
Sec. 23. Whenever the charity fund exceeded one hundred dollar?,
it was to be loaned.
Sec. 2-1. Provided for the amendment or alteration of these By-Laws.
Sec. 2."i. Provided that every member shall sign the By-Laws.
Sec. 2(i. ''All motions to expel a member shall be made at a stated
Lodge night, and grounded on written charges, which shall be laid be-
fore the Lodge, a certified copy of which charge shall be delivered (if
within reach of the Lodge) at least one month before the question shall
be taken by the Lodge thereon, and the party so charged shall at the
same time be notified to make his defense iu writing (if within reach of
the Lodge), accompanied with such proofs as he may think necessary to
his defense: Provided, however, that the testimony of any person not a-
member of this Lodge shall be taken before a judge or magistrate, a
member of this, or any other regular Lodge, and in presence of at least
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 25
two disinterested Masons agreed upon and nominated by the parties,
giving the opposite party a reasonable notice (if within the reach of the
Lodge) of the time and place of taking such testimony.
" Provided, also, That if a member be reported to be not within the reach
of this Lodge (by the report of the Secretary in conformity to the above
rule), the proceedings shall be had against him, as though he were within
the jurisdiction of the Lodge."
Signed by Michael Jones. W. 31.; R. Robinson, S. W.; George Fisher, J. W.;
James Dunlap, Treasurer; William Afundel, Sec.; J. Finney, S. D.; David Robin-
son. J. D.; Jiimes Edgar, J. Giibreath, John Hays, _J_ames Hall, _Sr., John Hay,
Nathan Davis, T. Tuttle, James Hall, Jr., Shadrach Bond, Jr., Enoch Paine, Henry
Connor, liyrd Lockhart, Jr., J. A. Boyes, Thomas C. Browne, Thos. Todd, Win.
Bennett, Wharton Rector, T. G. R. Rhea, Cald. W. Cairnes, K. Barton, James B.
Moore, Charles McPherson, Philip Fouke, Jesse W. Cooper, W. Fenwick, Warren t ,
Jirovvn, Wm. C. Greenupt James M. Duncan. L. LaChapelle,*Samuel Omelveny, ypv
Thomas Ferguson, Jacob Feaman, E. Owen, John Bivins, John H. Robinson,
John Gilliss, \Vm. McDonald, Samuel C. Christy, David Scott, 3rd, John W. Nel-
son, Philip Tramell, John Walls, Thomas C. Patterson, James S. Cheek, Clement
C. Conway, Henry S. Dodge, Hipolite Meuard, Jeptha Sweet, Daniel S. Swearingen,
Robert Latty, Philip Rocheblave, Thomas Reynolds, Samuel Walker, Samuel
Smith, David Anderson, Edmund Roberts, Wm. Boon, Josiah T. Belts, William
McBride, Jesse Griggs, Seth Converse, Alexander Phillips, Wm. Arundel, Samuel
Whiteside, James Clark, Martin Jones, William Alexander, Beal Greenup, John
N. Robinson, John Atkins, Ferdinand Onjer, Andrew Buckham, Thomas Brady,
John Latty, T. J. V. Owen, D. C. Taggart, Amos Anderson.
July 2nd. — Eight brethren present. Petition of Philip Fouke reported
on, but ballot postponed.
August 6th. — Nine brethren present. Petition of Nathan Pusey re-
ceived and referred. Ballot for Philip Fouke again postponed, and
charges against Bro. Benjamin Young postponed, and the Master directed
to give Bro. Young full information in relation thereto.
September 2nd. — Eight brethren present. Philip Fouke, initiated,
and Bro. J. B. Moore passed.
October 1st.- Six brethren present. "A communication from the Grand
Lodge, read, and one copy ordered to be forwarded to the brethren at
Cahokia for their information."
November 5th. Six brethren present. No business transacted.
November 30th. — Eight brethren and two visitors (Isaiah C. Dunn,
and Ezekiel Fenwick, of Louisiana Lodge No. 109, St. Genevieve)
present. Bro. Walter Fenwick raised and demitted, in order to join
Louisiana Lodge.
December 3rd. — Eight brethren present. The petition of Nathan
Pusey was ordered returned, on ground of insufficient acquaintance with
the petitioner." The semi-annual election resulted in the choice of James
Giibreath, W. M.: George Fisher, S. W.: James Finney, J. W.; and
James Dunlap, Treasurer.
26 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
December 17th. — Eight brethren present. Philip Fouke passed and
raised. Invitation to join in celebration of St. John's Day (Dec. 27)
tendered by the Lodge at St. Genevieve accepted. Petition of sundry
brethren at Cahokia, asking a recommendation for new Lodge, laid over.*
December 27th. — St. John's Day. Seven brethren present. A Lodge of
Past Masters opened, and the Master installed, after which a Lodge of
Master Masons was opened and the Senior and Junior Wardens installed.
January 7th, 1809. — Six brethren and one visitor (Bro. Terry) present.
James B. Moore raised.
February 4th. — Eleven brethren present. Breth. Henry Connor was
appointed Junior Deacon, Robert Robinson, Secretary. Petition of
Robert Patton received and referred. Breth. Charles Querey and
Stephen Foster expelled.
March 4th. — Nine brethren present. Robert Patton initiated, and
Caldwell Cairnes passed and raised.
April 1st. — Nine brethren present. Robert Patton passed.
May 6th. — Eight brethren and two visitors (Breth. Ezekiel Fenwick
and " William C. Greenup, of Hirara Lodge No. 4, Frankfort, Ken-
tucky,") present. Charges preferred against two prominent brethren of
• the Lodge, of defaming the character of the Lodge and its members,
and immoral conduct, which were referred to a committee for inves-
tigation.
June 3d. — Six brethren present. Among the brethren present at this
meeting was Bro. Charles Querey, reported as expelled at a former
meeting. We are led to suspect that the term "expelled" used in the
record at that time was a misnomer, that the word exclusion was in-
tended. The Lodges at that time were in the habit of excluding from
all participation in the work of the Lodge, brethren who were in arrears,
until such arrears were settled. The semi-annual election was held,
and the following brethren elected : James Gilbreath, W. M. ; James
Finney, S. W. ; Henry Connor, J. W. ; Michael Jones, Treasurer;
Robert Robinson, Secretary; Philip Fouke, Senior Deacon and Stew-
ard ; and Bro. Robert Patton, Junior Deacon. " Citations " issued for
the two brethren against whom charges were preferred at the previous
meeting.
June 16th. — Six brethren and one visitor (Bro. Greenup) present.
Robert Patton raised. Invitations fro7ii the Lodges at St. Louis and
St. Genevieve, to join them in celebrating St. John's Day, received, and
the latter accepted. The word "Tyler" appears at this meeting, for
the first time.
*This petition, signed by brethren "John Hay, Dr. Truman Tattle, William
Atcheson, John Hays, and Cftl dwell Cairnes, never received the recommendation
prayed for, owing to some difficulties in regard to dues.
HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 27
June 24th. — Six brethren present. Officers installed, Lodge closed,
and brethren proceeded to Ste. Genevieve.®
July 1st. — Seven brethren present. Bro. Greenup visiting. The
Lodge was called to try the charges previously presented, but the Sec-
retary having failed to issue the proper notice, the Lodge was closed
without taking any steps in the matter.
August 5th. — Seven brethren present. Called for the same purpose
as the preceding meeting, and with the same result, and for the same
cause.
September 2d. — Six brethren present. The same remarks concerning
the meeting of July 1st will apply to this.
October 7th. — Nine brethren present. Bro. Greenup visiting. Same
proceedings as at the meeting of July 1st.
November 4th. — Ten brethren present. Breth. E. Fenwick and "John
Donohue, Louisiana Lodge No. 109, Ste. Genevieve," visiting. The
Secretary ordered to make full returns to the Grand Lodge, and Breth.
Arundel, Finney, and Fouke appointed a "Finance Committee."
December 2d. — Ten brethren present. Breth. Greenup and Jacob
Fisher visiting. One of the brethren against whom charges were pre-
ferred presented a communication to the Lodge and requested that the
Lodge at St. Louis might be "deputised" to try the charges. The
document was referred to a committee of five to report upon at the next
meeting. Bro. William C. Greenup was admitted upon petition. The
semi-annual election resulted in the choice of Breth. George Fisher,
for W. M. ; James Finney, S. W. ; William Arundel, J. W.; Henry
Connor, Treasurer. An invitation was ordered to be sent to the breth-
ren at Ste. Genevieve for St. John's Day.
December 27th. — Six brethren present. W. M., S. and J. Wardens in-
stalled in a Lodge of Past Masters. Breth. Greenup appointed Secretary,
Fouke S. D. and Steward, and Bro. Patton Junior Deacon. No mention
of the celebration of the day, or of any attendance from Louisiana
Lodge, is made.
January 6th, 1810. — Eight brethren present. Committee on " the
charges " reported, and report ordered to "lie over for consideration."
January 13th. — Eight brethren present. No business beyond the ap-
pointment of a Finance Committee transacted.
February 3d. — Six brethr&n present. Bro. John Hay is reported as a
visitor, although there is no record of his demission. Petition of Louis
LaChappelle received and referred. Finance Committee granted further
time, and " charges " laid over to next meeting.
No meeting in March.
*There is no record (and the record states plainly Worshipful Master, Senior
and Junior Wardens), at any time, of the installation of any officer below the
Junior Warden.
28 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
April 7th. — Seven brethren present. "All business postponed to next
stated Lodge night."
May 5th. — Eight brethren present. John Gordon, of Union Lodge
No. 1, Ohio, visiting. Xo business of any importance transacted.
May 17th. — Eight brethren present. Louis LaChappelle initiated.
June2d. — Five brethren present. Lodge opened on the first degree.
"William C. Greenup elected W. M. ; James Finney, S. "VV. ; Philip
Fouke, J. W.; and Thomas Todd, Treasurer. In consequence of their all
having the "chills," all unfinished business was "postponed." Invita-
tions to the Lodges at St. Louis and Ste. Genevieve to join in celebrating
St. John's Day were ordered to issue.
June 24th. — Ten brethren and four visitors present. The visitors
on this occasion were "Harvey Lane, late of Russellville Lodge, Ken-
tucky; Benjamin Stephenson, late of Hagerstown Xo. 33 (Maryland):
Thomas T. Crittenden, of St. Genevieve Lodge Xo. I0',),s and Eobert
Elliott, late of a Lodge held at Carlyle, Pennsylvania, under a dispen-
sation from the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania." A Lodge of Past Masters
was opened, Shadrach Bond presiding, when the Master and Warding
were installed. This being done, a Lodge of Master Masons was opened.
The following appointments were made : William Arundel, Secretary ;
George Fisher and Robert Patton, Deacons, "when the brethren pro-
ceeded in procession to Bro. P. Fouke's, and partook of a repast there,
and returned to the lodge-room in the same manner. At Bro. P. Fouke's
the brethren were visited by Bro. Andrew McCormick, of Lodge Xo. 137,
of Loughbrickland, of Ireland, Orange Body, and introduced as a Fellow
Craft."
July 7th. — Xine brethren present. Bro. Thos. C. Crittenden visiting.
The Finance Committee were "ordered" to report at next meeting; Bro.
Tuttle "ordered" to be present at the September meeting, and petition
of Ezra Owen received and referred.
August 4th. — Thirteen brethren present. Breth. McCormick, Critten-
den, and "Major Taylor, Abraham Lodge Xo. 8, Kentucky, a M. M.,"
visiting. Ezra Owen initiated. The brethren against whom charges
were preferred were "cited" to appear at the October meeting. The
Finance Committee were granted further time to report.
September — (1st Saturday). — Seven brethren- present. " Bro. David
C. Knox, of Xo. 19, Philadelphia, a M. M.," visiting. Ezra Owen
passed. All unfinished business " postponed " until, next meeting.
October 6th. — Twelve brethren present. "John Robinson, of Lodge
Xo. 13, Virginia, a M. M.," visiting. Louis LaChappelle passed. A
Lodge of Master Masons being opened, Bro. James Edgar "came for-
ward" and answered to certain charges alleged against him, and having
*This is a mistake in the record. The name of the Lodge was Louisiana, not
St. Genevieve.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 20
made suitable apologies, a fine of twenty-five dollars, previously assessed
against him, was remitted. " Doctor Truman Tuttle" was expelled.
November 3d. — Ten brethren present. Breth. John Robinson and
"Thomas "W. Thrustou, of Abraham Lodge No. 8, Kentucky, an E. A.,"
visiting. The time of meeting was changed from Saturday to " 1st
Thursday of each month." "The Junior Brethren having retired, a
Lodge of Master Masons opened," and Bro. Ezra Owen raised.
November Sth. — Twelve brethren present. Bro. Louis LaChappelle
raised.
December 6th. — Nine brethren present. The election resulted in the
choice of Bro. James Finney for W. M.; James Gilbreath, S. W.; Michael
Jones, J. W.; and Ezra Owen, Treasurer.
December 27th, St. John's Day. — Ten brethren present. The following
appointments were made: William Arundel, Secretary; David Robinson,
Senior Deacon; James Edgar, Junior Deacon; and James Gilbreath,.
Steward. A Lodge of Master Masons was then opened, and all the officers
installed, being the first instance of the installation of any officer below
Junior Warden.
CHAPTER IV.
January 13, 1811. — Five brethren present. Lodge opened on the Jfrxf
•degree, and all business postponed until next meeting.
February 7th. — Nine brethren present. No business transacted.
March 7th. — Eleven brethren present. Breth. Knox and "Thomas
Ferguson, of Lodge No. 87, Yorktown, South Carolina," visiting. Bro.
Ferguson was admitted a member upon petition. Dr. Dunlap "reported
for not paying up Lodge dues."
April 5th. — Twelve brethren present. The only business before the
Lodge was the consideration of " Doctor James Dunlap's" delinquency
as regarded Lodge dues, the consideration of which, upon motion of Bro.
Todd, was "postponed for two years."
May 3d. — Seven brethren present. No business transacted.
June 7th. — Nine brethren present. " Wm. 0. Allen, of St. Louis Lodge
No. Ill, a M. M.," visiting. The following officers were elected : Win.
C. Greenup, W. M.; John H. Eobinson, S. W.; James Edgar, J. W.;
Michael Jones, Treasurer. Petition of Wm. McDonald, "of Harrison-
ville," received and referred.
June 15th. — Nine brethren present. A Finance Committee was ap-
pointed, and steps taken towards liquidating the liabilities of the Lodge.
June 24th, St. John's Day. — Nine brethren present. "Stated Lodge
night; dues" reduced from twenty-five to twelve and a half cents. Bills
to the amount of $150.07i allowed. What these allowances were for, is
not stated, except in one instance, viz.: " Eight dollars to Bro. D.
Robinson, for a sword," which proves conclusively that "the grim Tyler
with his rusty old sword" was not a myth in those days. "The Junior
Brethren having retired, a Lodge of "Pass Masters" was opened, and
Bro. Greenup duly installed W. M.; after which, a Lodge of Master
Masons was opened, and the S. and J. Wardens, Treasurer, and the fol-
lowing appointed officers installed: Wm. Arundel, Secretary; David
Eobinson and Louis LaChappelle, Deacons; and Jas. Gilbreath, Steward
and Tyler.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 31
July 6th. — Three brethren present. Lodge opened on ihQ_ftrst degree,
but no business transacted.
July 25th. — Six brethren present. Lodge opened on the Jirst degree,
and petition of David Scott received and referred.
August 2nd. — Seven brethren present. William. McDonald and David
Scott, initiated.
August 10th. — Seven brethren present. David Scott passed.
September 6th. Six brethren present. Lodge opened on the first, sec-
ond, and third degrees, and Bro. David Scott raised.
October 4th. — Six brethren present. Lodge opened on ihefirst degree,
but no business transacted.
October 16th. — Present: Michael Jones, W. M., pro tern.; James
E<l:jar, S. ~Vf.,pro tern.: Philip Fouke, J. W.,pro tern.; James Gilbreath,
S. D.,pro tern.; George Fisher, J. D.,pro tern.; James Finney, Secretary,
pro tern. Brethren John II. Eobinson and Benjamin Stephenson. The
Lodge was called for the purpose of attending the funeral of Bro. Robert
Robinson, deceased — " when a M. Mason's Lodge was opened in ample
form, and proceeded to the place of interment, and after the usiv^l
solemnities returned and closed in harmony, etc." This is the first record
of a Masonic funeral in the State of Illinois. This funeral took place
five years (lacking two months) from the organization of the Lodge, and
nearly fifty-eight years ago. Since that time and in those fifty-eight
years, the Fraternity grew strong, although nearly annihilated by the
fierce gusts of passion, revenge, and ignorance which swept over it; it
is to-day proudly triumphant, and holds up its head among the institu-
tions of the earth. And in that time, while the Fraternity has so grown
and multiplied, our beautiful funeral service has been listened to thous-
ands of times, demonstrating unerringly that "Earth to earth, dust to
dust, and ashes to ashes," is no vain utterance, but teaches a fearful les-
son "to all mankind, but more especially the Mason."
November 1st. — Four brethren present. No business beyond opening
and closing on the second degree transacted.
December 6th. — Nine brethren present. " Bro. Seth Converse, of
Franklin Lodge No. 6, New Hampshire, introduced by Bros. Bond and
Todd, as a Master Mason," visiting. Bro. John II. Robinson granted a
certificate of " dismissal" in order to join the Lodge at Ste. Genevievc,
and Bro. Thomas Todd allowed to " withdraw, he having assigned satis-
factory reasons therefor." The following officers were elected: Philip
Fouke, W. M.; Win. C. Greenup, S. W.; James Edgar, J. W.: Michael
Jones, Treasurer.
December 27th. — St. John's Day. Five brethren present. Opened on
the third degree. A communication from St. Louis Lodge No. Ill, re-
garding the expulsion of " Doctor Truman Tuttle," was received and
referred to brethren Greenup, Fouke, Fisher, and Arundel. " The
32 HISTOKY OF MASOXltY IN ILLINOIS.
Lodge was called from labor to refreshment, when the brethren who
were not Past Masters withdrew, whereupon the Lodge was again called
to labor, -the M. M. Lodge closed, and a Past M. Lodge opened.
Worshipful Master William C. Grecnup, Master; James Edgar, Senior
Warden; Michael Jones, Junior Warden ; when the Master, Wardens,
and Treasurer were regularly installed, and took their seats; after which
the Past M. Lodge closed and a Master M's. Lodge opened, and
called to refreshment, and the absent brethren called in, and the Lodge
called again to labor." It was resolved to remove the Lodge from the
house of Bro. Edgar to that of Bro. Greenup. The following appoint-
?nents were made, but the officers were not installed; William Arundel,
Secretary; James Gilbreath and Ezra Owen, Deacons; William C.
Grecnup, Steward.
January 3d, 1812. — Three brethren present. No business transacted.
No meeting in February.
March 6th. — Four brethren present. "The lodge was opened on the
first degree. The minutes of the last stated night being called for, it was
— found that no lodge was held — that the earthquakes, so frequent and
alarming at the time, rendered an assemblage of the members almost
impossible, and indeed unsafe. The stone house in which the lodge was
kept was considerably shattered by the frequent concussions, and was on
that evening abandoned by its proprietor, Bro. Greenup, who from the
hurry of the moment, in moving his family, forgot to make any arrange-
ments. The books and furniture then became inaccessible to those who
had met, and consequently the delinquency on the part of the lodge in
not meeting was unavoidable."
April 4th. — Five brethren present. "Brother Aaron Burr, Master
Mason, member of Union Lodge No. 40, Connecticut," visiting. The
communication from the Lodge at St. Louis was answered, but what the
answer was can not be stated, as no record of it was made.
May 1st. — Four brethren present. No business transacted.
June 5th. — Four brethren present. Bro. William Arundel was granted
a certificate of " demission," he donating to the lodge all balances due
him. This certificate, the original of which is in our possession, reads as
follows :
"SU.MMA LAUS DEO.
" In the East arose a light, and the light shineth in darkness, and the darkness compn -
hendcth it not.
'• We, the Master and Wardens of Western Star Lodge No. 107, Ancient York
Masons, held in the Town of Kaskaskin, in the Illinois Territory, under a regu-
lar charter from the Worshipful Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, do hereby certify
that Brother William Arundel, who hath signed his name in the margin, and
unto whom we grant these letters, is a regular and duly Registered Master
Mason, and has performed all his works amongst us to the entire satisfaction
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 33
of his brethren. We therefore pray all the Worshipful Lodges and all Free
and Accepted Masons to receive him into Fellowship wherever Providence
may allot his abode on Earth.
" In testimony whereof we have hereto set our hands, countersigned by our
said Brother and Secretary (no seal for our Lodge being yet provided), at Kas-
kuskia, this twenty-second day of June, Anno Lucis 5812, Anno Domino 1812.
"P. FOUKE, Master,
WM. C. GREENUP, S. Warden,
"Mieii'L JONES, See\i/ P. 7'." JAMES EDGAR, J. Warden."
Bro. David Scott was granted a like certificate. Officers as follows
were elected : Michael Jones, W. M.; James Edgar, S. W.; George Fisher,
J. W ; Philip Fouke, Treasurer; all of whom had at some time presided
over the Lodge.
June 24th. — Four brethren present. Lodge opened on the first, second r
and third degrees. The Lodge of Master Masons was then closed, and a
Lodge of Past Masters opened, and the Master installed. This Lodge was
then closed, a Lodge of Master Masons opened, and the absent brother
(Ezra Owen) recalled. The Senior Warden and Treasurer were then in-
stalled. The Junior Warden being absent, Bro. Greenup was appointed
to act until he should be installed. Breth. Owen and LaChappelle were
appointed Deacons.
No meetings were held during the months of July, August, and Sep-
tember.
October 2nd. — Six brethren present. John Caldwell, of Vincennes
Lodge No. 15, Indiana Territory, visiting. No business transacted.
No meeting held in November.
December 4th. — Seven brethren present. The Lodge was opened on the
first degree in "ample form." The old officers were re-elected.
December 27th. — St. John's Day. Seven brethren present. Breth.
John Caldwell and Benjamin Talbott, F. C. of Jerusalem Lodge No. 9,
Kentucky, visiting. The Lodge was opened in the first degree and closed,
and a Lodge of Fellow Crafts opened. Petition of George W. Frazier
received and referred. The Master, Wardens, and Treasurer were in-
stalled, a Lodge of Past Masters being opened. Breth. Owen and
LaChappelle were re-appointed Deacons, and Bro. Greenup appointed
Secretary. The petition of " Col. Philip Trammell" received, referred,
report instanter. Candidate elected and initiated.
January 8th, 1813. — Six brethren present. Petitions of Clement C.
Conway and Thomas C. Patterson, received and referred, and after the
election of Geo. W. Frazier for initiation, the Lodge was closed.
February 5th. — Seven brethren present. Bro. Daniel S. Swearingen
visiting. Thomas C. Patterson and Clement C. Conway initiated. Bro.
—3
34 H1STOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
Gilbreath was ordered to come before the Lodge at its next meeting and
show cause why he neglected to attend the meetings of the same.
February 9th. — Six brethren present. Thomas C. Patterson passed.
March 5th. — Seven brethren present. "The Lodge was opened in the
first step of Masonry, according to the Ancient Custom. When on
examination of Bro. Conway, who prayed to take the step of a Fellow
Craft, it was moved the said brother withdraw."* The brother was
then passed. Petitions of Leonard White and John McFerron received
and referred.
April 2d. — Six brethren present. Petition of Thomas Leavins received
and referred.
April 10th. — Five brethren present. Clement C. Conway raised.
May 7th. — Eight brethren present. Petition of " Hypolite (John.)
Menard" received and referred. Bro. Gilbreath stated his reasons for
not attending the meetings of the Lodge, which were deemed reasona-
ble, and he granted a demit. The case of Bro. Dunlap, which was laid
over two years before, was taken up and indefinitely postponed.
June 4th. — Ten brethren present. Daniel S. Swearingen, " late of
Mt. Moriah Lodge No. 33, Maryland," admitted a member upon petition.
Bro. Wm. McDonald "examined as to his progress," and passed. John
McFerron initiated. William C. Greenup was elected Master: Philip
Fouke, Senior Warden; Thomas Todd,f Junior Warden; and Ezra
Owen, Treasurer. Breth. Fouke, McFerron, and Greenup were appointed
.a committee to provide "dinner" for St. John's Day.
June 15th. — Nine brethren present. Hypolite (John) Menard initiated.
June 24th. — St. John's Day. Eleven brethren present. Officers in-
stalled, and the following appointments made: Michael Jones, Secre-
tary; Daniel S. Swearingen, and Louis LaChappelle, Deacons; Clement
•C. Conway, Steward; John Menard, Tyler. Wharton Rector, a member
of the Lodge, having been reported by the Grand Lodge as suspended in
December, 1805, by Winchester Lodge No. 14, Virginia, a committee
was appointed to investigate the matter. No other business transacted.
July 2d. — Eight brethren present. John McFerron passed. Petitions
of Philip Rocheblave and Samuel Walker received and referred.
August 6th. — Eight brethren present. Wharton Rector was "unani-
mously expelled." The case of James Dunlap was again brought up,
and he "unanimously expelled." Petition of David Anderson received
and referred. Philip Rocheblave and Samuel Walker initiated. Petitions
of William Boon and Michael Buyatte received and referred. Bro.
Fouke was appointed a committee to procure furniture, and all delin-
quents were ordered to settle their dues.
*This is the first record of any examination of candidates being had.
tit will be recollected that Bro. Todd was at a previous meeting allowed to
withdraw, but there is no record of any subsequent affiliation.
HISTORY OP MASONRY IN ILLINOIS- 35
September 3d. — Eleven brethren present. Philip Rocheblave passed,
and Thomas C. Patterson raised. Petition of Jesse Griggs received and
referred; David Anderson elected ; William Boon and Michael Buyatte
rejected.*
September 7th. — Nine brethren present. Hypolite (John) Menard
and Philip Rocheblave raised.
October 1st. — Seven brethren present. John McFerron passed. Pe-
titions of William Boon and Michael Buyatte received and referred.
Samuel Walker raised. Committee on Furniture discharged, and all
consideration of that subject " dispensed with."
November 5th.- — Eight brethren present.- Michael Buyatte initiated.
Bro. Greenup, the Master, expressed a desire to withdraw from the
•Lodge. His communication was made the special order for the next
stated meeting.
November 24th. — Twelve brethren present. " Colo. Philip Trammell
passed."
November 27th. — Twelve brethren present. Thomas Ferguson raised.
December 3d. — Fifteen brethren present. William Boon initiated.
The semi-annual election resulted as follows: For W. M., Wm. C.
Greenup; S. W., Philip Fouke; J. W., Clement C. Conway; Treasurer,
Philip Rocheblave. Brethren Fisher, Fouke, and Conway were appointed
a committee to prepare dinner on St. John's Day.
December 27th. — St. John's Day. Fifteen brethren present. Officers
installed, and Michael Jones appointed Secretary; John Menard and
Samuel Walker, Deacons: John McFerron, Steward.
*Tiiese are the first rejections on record.
CHAPTER V.
1814-15-16.
January 7th, 1814. — Thirteen brethren present. Petitions of Jacob
Short, Major John Mordock, and Dr. Allen Mann, were received and
referred. Charges were preferred against a brother for absconding "to-
the great injury of his creditors generally."
February 14. — Twelve brethren present. Jacob A. Boyce "unani-
mously expelled."
March 4th. Eleven brethren present. Brethren David Anderson,
Michael Buyatte, and William Boon, " separately" passed.
March 9th. — Eight brethren present. John McFerron, and William
Boon, raised.
April 1st. — Twelve brethren present. David Anderson, raised, and
petition of Allen Mann withdrawn.
April 16th. — Twelve brethren present. William McDonald raised,
and he and Bro. Robert Patton granted demits.
May 6th. — Fourteen brethren present. Michael Buyatte raised, and
petition of John Mordock withdrawn. Petitions of James Hall, Jr.,
and John Cochran received and referred.
June 2d. — Seven brethren present. Michael Jones was elected W-
M.; Philip Fouke, S. W.; C. C. Conway, J. W.; and Philip Rocheblave*
Treasurer. Petitions of Wm. McBride, John Irwin, and David Fulton,
received and referred. The Master was authorized to purchase "15
aprons and sashes."
June 24th, St. John's Day. — Twenty-three brethren present. Thomas
Stewart, of Ark Lodge No. 127, Philadelphia; Benj. Stephenson, William
Arundel, and Seth Converse, visiting. The officers (W. M., S. and J.
Ws.) were installed, and the following appointments made: " Breth.
Win. C. Greenup, Secretary, John Menard and Shadrach Bond, Deacons,
Rtmuel Walker, Tyler, and John McFerron, Steward. After the tran-
saction of business, the brethren proceeded to the " House of Brother
Philip Fouke," and partook of the refreshments prepared for them.
(. v
HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 37
July 1st. — Eight brethren present. An account of $26 for aprons and
•sashes was allowed. A committee appointed at a previous meeting, t<>
procure a room, reported, and granted still further time.
August 5th. — Eight brethren present. William McBride initiated,
John Cochran elected, and ballots as to John Irwin and David Fulton
postponed.
September 2d. — Nine brethren present. David Fulton and John Irwin
rejected. Petitions of James Clark and Robert Foster received and re-
ferred.
October 7th. — Six brethren present. Petition of James Hall, Sr., re-
ceived and referred. Notice was filed of an intention to move an amend-
ment " to a certain by-law," but which by-law, or what the amendment
was, does not appear of record.
ss- November 4th.— Ten brethren present. Petition of Elias K. Kane
s\ it f^JVTn tLtjiiew Duncan, received and referred. Robert Foster rejected
Thomas Leavins initiated.
December 2d. — Fifteen brethren present. Petitions of Breth. Seth
Converse and William Arundel, for affiliation, received, referred, and they
elected. William McBride passed. The old officers were re-elected.
December 13th. — Thirteen brethren present. Thomas Shannon, of
Jerusalem Lodge No. 9, Kentucky, visiting. Bro. Philip Tramrnell
raised.
—^Pecember 27th,vSt. John's Day. —Fifteen brethren present. William
C. Greenup was appointed Secretary; John H. Menard, and Shadrach
Bond, Deacons ; John 'McFerron, Steward; and Samuel Walker, Tyler.
The elective officers were installed, and Matthjejy_I)aucan initiated.
January 6, 1815. — Thirteen brethren "present. Joshua Nowell,of Jeru-
salem Lodge No. 9, Kentucky, visiting. A matter of difference having
arisen between two of the brethren, Breth. Arundel, Greenup, and Edgar
were appointed to try and reconcile the same. A subscription was or-
dered to be taken, for the purpose of " building a lodge-room." Petition
of William Alexander received and referred.
February 3d. — Ten brethren present. The committee to whom that
duty had been intrusted, reported that the difficulty between the two
brethren, heretofore alluded to, had been amicably adjusted, to the satis-
faction of themselves and the committee, "whereupon the Worshipful
Michael Jones, Master, congratulated them." James Clark initiated,
and Matthew Duncan and Thomas Leavins passed.
March 3d. — Twelve brethren present. William McBride raised.
April 7th. — Fourteen brethren present. Archibald Tanner, Lodge No.
21, Ohio, visiting. Petition of Nathan Davis received and referred.
William Alexander initiated.
April 9th. — Eleven brethren present. James Hall, Sr., initiated.
38 HISTOKY OF MASOXKY IN ILLINOIS.
May 5th. — Ten brethren present. A committee appointed to procure a
suitable room, and committee on petition of Nathan Davis, granted
further time.
May 16. — Twelve brethren present. Wm. Alexander passed.
June 1st. — Twelve brethren present. Enoch Paine visiting. Petition
of Byrd Lockhart received and referred. Nathan Davis initiated. The
election resulted in the choice of Breth. Shadrach Bond for W. M.; Philip
Fouke, S. W.; James Edgar, J. W.; and Clement C. Conway, Treasurer.
Breth. Fouke, McFerron, and Conway were appointed a committee to
prepare for St. John's Day, and directed to invite Josiah Randall to
"preach a sermon on that day."
June 24th. — Nine brethren present. Bro. Greenup was re-appointed
Secretary; Breth. Walker and Menard, Deacons; D. S. Swearingen,
Tyler, and John McFerron, Steward. James Hall (Jr.) initiated. Breth.
Edgar, Walker, and Swearingen were appointed a committee to "instruct
the younger brethren." Officers installed.
7th.— Nine brethren present. Matthew Duncan_raised. Charges
/ were preferred against a brother, alleging having in his possession,
cOv making, and altering forged bank notes, and associating with counter-
\ feiters. The charges were referred to a committee to "collect testimony
for and against the charges."
August 4th. — Thirteen brethren present. Enoch Paine having peti-
tioned, was admitted a member. James Hall, Sr., passed.
August 5th. — Thirteen brethren present. Thomas Leavins raised.
August 24th. — Eleven brethren present. Bro. James Gilbreath was
summoned to "appear in open Lodge," which appearance the record
would have us to infer was put in, but what for we do not know, as the
record states "that having gone through the business before them," the
Lodge was closed.
September 1st. — Ten brethren present. The Finance Committee re-
ported " thirty-eight dollars, forty-eight cents " in the treasury. This is
the first instance of that committee, or, in fact, any committee, except
those of investigation, making any reports. The charges against Bro.
James Gilbreath "were taken as confessed, he not having appeared or
made any defense," and he was accordingly " unanimously expelled by
a unanimous vote."
September 3d. — Six brethren present. Nathan Davis passed.
In this month Lawrence Lodge No. 34, at Shawneetown, received its
dispensation from the M. W. Grand Lodge of Kentucky. R. W. Bro. Mc-
Corckle, Grand Secretary of that Grand Lodge informs us: • " Lawrence
Lodge No. 34, at Shawneetown, Illinois, dispensation granted September
— , 1815, Daniel Bradford being Grand Master, James G. Trotter, Grand
Secretary. Chartered August, 1816, William H. Richardson being Grand
Master, Trotter, Grand Secretary. Bro. Meredith W. FisLer was the
HISTORY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS. 39
first Master of the Lodge. It continued on the register of the Grand
Lodge of Kentucky until 1824, when it was dropped, the Grand Lodge of
Illinois having been then formed." No further information can be ob-
tained, owing to the fact that the records and archives of the Grand
L "Ige of Kentucky were destroyed by fire, at Lexington, some years ago.
October fith. — Nine brethren present. Bro. E. Hockersmith, of Rus-
sellville (Kentucky) Lodge No. 17, visiting. Byrd Lockhart initiated.
Petition of John Cooper received and referred. "The lodge-room being
occupied by a sick person, the Lodge removed to the house of Bro. Jones,
by consent," and there Bro. Nathan Davis was raised, the Lodge closing
at 12 M.
October 28th. — Nine brethren present. Byrd Lockhart passed.
November 4th. — Thirteen brethren present. Byrd Loekhart raised.
Committee on petition of John Cooper granted further time. Bro.
Greenup was allowed one dollar twelve and a half cents, postage on
"one communication " from the Grand Lodge.
December 2d. — Thirteen brethren present. Committee on petition of
John Cooper granted still further time. Shadrach Bond " elected Master
pursuant to by-laws," Philip Fouke, "Seignor Warden;" Samuel Walker,
Junior Warden; and Clement C. Con way, Treasurer. Bretli. Jones, Fouke,
and Greenup were appointed a committee to make arrangements for a
" Masonic dinner and ball," on St. John's Day, and it was "ordered"
that every brother who attended should pay two dollars. Petition of
Robert Foster received and referred.
December 27th. — A Lodge of Past Masters was opened: Shadrach
Bond, Master; Philip Fouke, S. W.; M. Jones, J. W.; W. C. Greenup,
Secretary and Tyler. Shadrach Bond, W. M., and Philip Fouke, S. W.,
were installed, when the Lodge closed and a Lodge of Master Masons
was opened, and the Junior Warden and Treasurer installed, and the
Lodge of Master Masons closed and a Lodge of Entered Apprentices
opened. Seventeen brethren present. William Bennett, of Hiram Lodge
No. 25, New Jersey, visiting. D. S. Swearingen was appointed Secretary ;
Ilypolite Menard and David Anderson, Deacons; Enoch Paine, Tyler,
and John McFerron, Steward. Petition of Thomas C. Browne was re-
ceived, referred, and reported on instanter, and the candidate initiated.
The Lodge then proceeded to the house of Bro. Fouke, and partook of
a " Festival Dinner," and " returned to the Lodge in order."
January 2nd, 1816. — Ten brethren present. James Hall, Jr., and
Thomas C. Browne passed.
January 6th. — Ten brethren present. Bro. James B.Edwards, Friend-
ship Lodge No. 74, Virginia, visiting. Robert Foster rejected. Petition
of Jesse Griggs received and referred. James Clark passed, and Thomas
C. Browne raised. A committee was appointed to' inquire into the needs
of the familv of one of the brethren who was absent from home.
40 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN I LLINOIB.
January 23d. — Seven brethren present. " The Worshipful Master.an-
uounced to the brethren the melancholy news of the death of their
worthy brother Thomas Todd, who departed this life on Monday even-
ing about 6 o'clock, the 15th instant. The Treasurer was directed to
procure crape and blue ribbon for the members, the crape to be worn on
the hats, and the ribbon at the third button hole of the vest: to be worn
thirty days.
February 3d. — Thirteen brethren present. Bro. LaChappelle de-
mitted ; also Philip Trammel!.
March 2nd. — Fourteen brethren present. James Clark raised. Com-
mittees on petitions of Griggs and Cooper granted further time. Wil-
liam Bennett admitted as a member upon petition. Committee on
Finances reported $535. 65 due the Lodge. Philip Rocheblave demitted.
The original demit, or rather diploma, granted Bro. Rocheblave is in our
possession, and as it is a curiosity, it is here inserted:
" WESTERN STARR LODGE No. 107.
"To all Free and Accepted Masons ; Union, Health, and Hapiness :
"We the Masters and Wardens of Western Starr Lodge No. 107, held at Kasku.*-
kia, in the county of Randolph, under the Grand Warrant of Pennsylvania, assem-
bled in Due form adorned with all our honors, do hereby declare and attest to all
men enlightened on the face of the earth, that our beloved Bro. Phillip Roaehblave,
who hath signed his name in the margin, hath been received as an entered ap-
prentice, passed as a fellow Craft; and after having sustained with firmness,
strength, and courage, the most painful works and wonderful trials, we have
given to him as a recompence, due to his zeal, diligence, and capacity, the HI!>-
blime degree of Master, and have admitted and initiated him as such into our
misteries and secret works in which he has helped us with his talents, skill and •*
knowledge. In testimony whereof, we have granted to him this present certifi-
cate, signed by our Master and Wardens, and attested by our Secretary, with the
private seal of Hie said Lodge, the twenty-fifth day of April, in the year of Ma-
sonry 6816, and of Salvation 1816.
"S. BOND, 11". M.
P. FOUKE, S. I!'.
SAMUEL WALKER, J. W.
" Attest. D. S. SWEARINGEN, Secretary."
March 4th. — Twelve brethren present. Brethren Joseph McFerron,
Sr., of Orange Lodge No. 12, Belfast, Ireland, and Thomas Towles, of
Jerusalem Lodge Xo. 9, Kentucky, visiting. James Hall, Sr., raised.
April Oth. — Seventeen brethren present. Committees on petitions of
Messrs. Griggs and Cooper reported, but no ballot was taken.
May 4th. — Seven brethren present. Petition of William Mears re-
ceived and referred. Jesse Griggs elected.
June 1st. — Ten brethren present. The election resulted in the choice
of Bro. Philip Fouke for W. M.; Samuel Walker, S. W.; David Anderson,
J. W.; and C. C. Conway, Treasurer.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS. 41
June 24th. — Nineteen brethren present. Bro. \V. Alexander raised.
Officers elect installed. Swearingen appointed Secretary ; Menard and
Paine, Deacons ; McBride, Tyler; and Conway, Steward. James Edgar
•demitted.
£*t July 6th. — Nine brethren present. Charges were preferred against
Bro. Matthew Duncan, which the Lodge unanimously refused to receive.
.lie was then granted a demit.
^- August 3d. — Six brethren present. Bro. Greenup demitted. «—
September — . — Six brethren present. Lodge was removed to the
house of Bro. Paine. No other business transacted.
October 5th. — Six brethren present. The Lodge passed a resolution
preventing the W. M. from drawing orders on the Treasurer until the
next stated meeting.* Petition of Nicholas G. R. Rhea received and re-
ferred. The delinquents were notified that if they did not settle by the
next St. John's Day, they would be expelled. Fifty dollars was appro-
priated for refitting the lodge-room.
November 2nd. Ten brethren present. "Warren Brown, of Morning
Star Lodge, New York, visiting. Petition of William Mears withdrawn.
N. G. R. Rhea elected.
December 7th. — Thirteen brethren present. James Dougherty, of Lex-
ington Lodge No. 1, Kentucky, visiting. Bro. Michael Jones was
elected W. M.; Samuel Walker, S. W.; David Anderson, J. W.; Enoch
Paine, Treasurer. The usual committee of arrangements for the cele-
bration of St. John's Day was appointed, and the Secretary directed to
advertise the same in the "public newspaper printed at Kaskaskia."
Nicholas G. R. Rhea initiated.
December 27th. — Fourteen brethren present. " David Vought, of Law-
rence Lodge No. 34, Shawneetown," visiting. Shadrach Bond and Philip
Fouke appointed Deacons; Swearingen, Secretary ; and Paine, Steward ,
and Tyler. The Lodge then proceeded to the house of Bro. William
Bennett, and partook of dinner " and other refreshments provided by
the committee."
* Bros. Fouke and Swearingen wished to pay the Grand Lodge dues, amounting
to some $60, which some of the brethren did not wish to do, in view of the con-
dition of the finances of the Lodge.
CHAPTER VI.
1817-18-19.
January 4th, 1817. — Six brethren present. C. C. Conway demitted,
which was all the business transacted.
February 1st. — Ten brethren present. Petition of Jesse W. Cooper
received and referred.
March 1st. — Eleven brethren present. Nicholas G. E. Rhea passed ;
committee on petition of Jesse W. Cooper granted further time, and Bre,th.
Bennett and McFerron fined twenty-five cents each, for non-attendance
at the previous meeting.
April 5th. — Twelve brethren present. No business, beyond continuing
committee on petition of Jesse W. Cooper, transacted, yet the lodge did
not close until 10 o'clock P. M., having opened at 6 o'clock.
May 3d. — Fourteen brethren present. " Joseph Philips, of Cumberland
Lodge, Tennessee," visiting. N. G. R. Rhea raised. D. S. Swearingen
was granted a demit.
June 7th. — Five brethren present. Petitions of Kimber Barton and
Charles McPherson received and referred. No election held at this meet-
ing-
June 24th. — Fifteen brethren present. No business transacted, the
day being celebrated by partaking of a dinner, at the house of Bro. Ben-
nett.
July 5th. — Nine brethren present. Petition of James Edgar, for affili-
ation, received, referred, reported on instanter, and he elected. Jesse
W. Cooper and Kimber Barton elected, and the latter initiated.
August 2d. — Twelve brethren present. "John Arquay, of Lod^e No. 1 2,
St. Louis, Missouri Territory," visiting. Charles McPherson initiated.
Petition of James M. Duncan received and referred.
September Gth.— Nine brethren present. The Lodge having received
notice of the death of Bro. N. G. R. Rhea, it was
"Resolved, That the members of this Lodge will, as a token of their grief for
the death of their deceased brother, N. G. R. Rhea, wear a piece of black ribbon
through the second and third button-holes of their coats for three months."
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 43
October 14th. — Eleven brethren present. No business transacted.
November 1st. — Ten brethren present. The committee on the petition
of James M. Duncan were granted further time to report, " by reason of
the death of Bro. Edgar, one of the committee." "The Lodge being
informed that Bro. James Edgar, a member of this Lodge, departed this
life on the morning of this day, passed the following resolve :
" Resolved, That the members of this Lodge will meet at the lodge-room on
the morrow at one o'clock, and proceed therefrom to the house of their deceased
brother, James Edgar, long a member, and one of the founders of the Lodge,
and attend the funeral, and pay him Masonic honors; and that the members of
Louisiana Lodge No. 109, at Ste. Genevieve, be invited to attend at Kaskaskia at
three o'clock on to-morrow evening, and that a special messenger be engaged
by the Treasurer to carry the notice and information to the Louisiana Lodge in
such way as the Worshipful Master may direct."
Petition of Antoine Z. Chenet received and referred. It having been
represented to the Lodge that the "Mill House, lately built for Gov.
Edwards, on Mary's river, by Bro. Edward Hockersmith," had been
carried away by an " unusual flood," whereby Bro. H. lost all his tools,
the Treasurer was directed to loan Bro. H. whatever sum could be spared
from the treasury.
Sunday, November 2, 1817. — Present: " M. Jones, W. M. ; S.Walker,
S. W.; D. Anderson, J. W.; E. Paine, Treas., and Tyler p. t.; Wm. C.
Greenup, visiting, Sec'y p. t. ; H. Menard, S. D. p. t. ; P. Fouke, J. D. ;
John McFerron, W. McBride, Michael Buyatte. Visitors: John Dona-
hue, Henry Kiel, Nathan Pusey, E. Roberts, Sebastian Butcher, of
Louisiana Lodge No. 109. The Lodge was opened on the third degree.
The brethren then proceeded to the house of their deceased brother,
James Edgar, and thence to the place of interment, where the body was
buried with Masonic honors.
December 6th. — Ten brethren present. " Wm. M. Alexander, of Hay-
market Lodge No. 57, Virginia," visiting. Petitions of George Day and
Edward Humphreys received and referred. The Lodge then proceeded
to the election of officers for the ensuing twelve months, with the fol-
lowing result: Samuel Walker was elected W. M. : Shadrach Bond,
S. W. ; Hypolite Menard, J. W. ; Enoch Paine, Treasurer.
December 8th. — Ten brethren present. " Samuel Smith, of Essex
Lodge, Massachusetts," visiting. Jesse W. Cooper initiated.
December 27th. — Seventeen brethren present. "Josiah Belts, M. M.
No. 46, New York," visiting. The officers elect were installed, and
the following appointed : E. Paine, Steward ; P. Fouke and Wm. Ben-
nett, Deacons; John McFerron, Secretary. Petitions of Henry S.
Dodge and Samuel Omelveny received and referred. The Lodge then
proceeded to the house of Bro. Bennett and partook of dinner.
44 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
January 3d, 1818.— Fourteen brethren present. " Thomas Ramsay, of
Cincinnati Lodge No. 13," visiting. Petition of Warren Brown, for
affiliation, received, referred, and he elected. Petitions of Jacob F«?a-
man and John Bivins received and referred. James M. Duncan and
Samuel Otnelveny initiated.
January 6th. — Seventeen brethren present. Jgmpa M,, Duncan and
Samuel Omelveny passed, and, on January 8th, eleven brethren being
present, the same brethren were raised.
February 7th. — Fourteen brethren present. Jacob Feaman and John
Bivins initiated. Petitions of John W. Gillis, Samuel C. Christy, John
Walls, and John M. Nelson, received and referred. Bro. Jones, "on his
way to the Eastern States," was authorized to procure jewels for the
Lodge, and was particularly exhorted, in the discharge of his duty, " to
have regard to the funds of the Lodge."
March 7th. — Eighteen brethren present. "James II. Rolfe, of Ohio
Lodge No. 101," and "John W. Comly, of Frankfort Lodge No. 102,"
visiting. Committees on petitions of Dodge, Day, Humphrey, and
Chenet, were granted further time. Petitions of James Cheek and
James B. Robinson were received and referred. John W. Gillis, Samuel
C. Christy, John W. Nelson, and John Walls, "separately" initiated.
March 14th. — Fourteen brethren present. John Bivins, Samuel C.
Christy, and John Walls passed.
March 2lst. — Fifteen brethren present. Jacob Feaman, John W.
Gillis, and John W. Nelson passed.
March 27th. — Seventeen brethren present. "Thomas Fuhlin, Potosi
Lodge No. 39, Missouri Territory, and Thomas G. Plummer, Philan-
thropic Lodge No. 50, Maryland," visiting. John Walls and Samuel C.
Christy raised.
April 4th. — Twenty-two brethren present. Charles McPherson passed.
April 6th. — Fourteen brethren present. In the rank of the brethren
present, Bro. Edmund Roberts, a visitor, is stated to be a "Mark Mas-
ter." Charles McPherson and Jacob Feaman raised.
April llth. — Nineteen brethren present. John W. Gillis and John W\
Nelson raised.
April 18th. — James S. Cheek passed, and Jlenry Dodge initiated.
May 2d. — Eighteen brethren present. A difficulty having arisen be-
tween two brethren, they were ordered to appear before the Lodge and
settle the matter. James S. Cheek raised. Jesse W. Cooper and Henry
.Dodge_passed.
"June 6th. — Sixteen brethren present. Petition of Jephtha Sweet
received and referred. Jesse W. Cooper raised. Breth. Bond, Brown,
and Duncan were appointed a committe to " frame an oration to be de-
livered on St. John's Day."
June 9th. — Number of brethren not stated. Henry Dodge raised.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 45
June 24th. — Thirty-eight brethren present. Jephtha Sweet initiated.
Petition of Robert Lattey received and referred. The Lodge then pro-
ceeded to the Court House, and listened to an oration by Bro._JamesM.
_Duncan, and thence to the house of Bro. Fouke, and partook of dinner
" and other refreshments."
July 4th. — Eight brethren present; but no business transacted, which,
considering the day, was nothing to be surprised at.
July 11 th. — Seventeen brethren present. Jephtha Sweet passed.
August 1st. — Twelve brethren present. Jephtha Sweet raised.
Two pages of the minutes are missing, and no meetings for September
and October appear.
November 7th. — Eighteen brethren present. Petition of Thomas Rey-
nolds, received at last meeting, was reported upon and the candidate in-
itiated. Bro. Sam'l Smith affiliated.
December 5th. — Seventeen brethren present. Thomas Reynolds
passed. Officers as follows were elected : Shadracb Bond, W. M.; P.
Fouke, S. W.; Samuel C. Christy, J. W.; "Warren Brown, Treasurer. It was
unanimously agreed to meet the brethren of the Lodge at St. Genevieve,
on December 27, and assist them in celebrating the day.
December 23d. — Fourteen brethren present. Thomas Reynolds raised.
December 24th. — Thirteen brethren present. Robert Lattey passed.*
December 27th. — Sixteen brethren present. " David Blackwell, late of
Lebanon Lodge No. 5, Kentucky," visiting. Officers elect installed, and
the following appointed: Thomas Reynolds, Secretary; John W. Gill is
and John W. Nelson, Deacons; Jephtha Sweet, Tyler ; Enoch Paine,
Steward.
January 2d, 1819. — Eighteen brethren present. "John C.Rochester,
of Ark Lodge, Geneva, New York ; Daniel D. Smith, Constellation Lodge,
New York; Benj. A. Porter, Miami Lodge No. 46," visiting. Petition of
Samuel Lybarger received and referred. Petitions of Edmund Roberts
and Josiah T. Betts for affiliation, received, and they elected. A commit-
tee was appointed to ascertain if Bro. Jones had procured a set of jewels
for the Lodge.
February 6th. — Twenty-two brethren present. Petitions of Martin
Jones. Samuel "VVbiteside. and Alexander Philips received and referred.
Jesse Griggs initiatecT
March 6th. — Thirty brethren present. "James Gillis, "Washington
Lodge No. 1, Delaware, John Simmons, Greenville Lodge No. 3, Tennes-
see," visiting. Petition of Samuel Lybarger withdrawn. Bro. Michael
Jones was allowed fifty dollars for a set of jewels and a carpet. Bro.
Lattey raised. Seth Converse and Jesse Cooper demitted.
*There is no record of this brother's initiation.
46 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
March 8th. — Thirteen brethren present. " Bro. P. W. Hight, Nova Sco-
tia Lodge No. — , Cincinnati, Ohio," visiting. Alexander Phillips, Sam-
uel Whiteside, and Martin Jones, "separately" initiated.
March ]2th. — Twenty-four brethren present. "James J. Ryan, Erie
Lodge No. 19, State of New York," visiting. Jesse Griggs, Alexander
Phillips, Samuel Whiteside, and Martin Jones "separately" passed.
March 15th. — Twenty brethren present. Martin Jones and Alexander
Phillips raised.
March 10th. — Twelve brethren present. Jesse Griggs and Samuel
Whiteside raised.
April 3d. — Eleven brethren present. " Henry Woodworth, of Wayne
Lodge No. 124, Erie, Pennsylvania," visiting. No business transacted
beyond appointing a committee to revise the by-laws.
May 1st. — Fourteen brethren present. "Samuel Howe, of American
Union Lodge No. 1, Marietta, Ohio," visiting. Certain charges preferred
against Bro. John Bivins, were not entertained. No further business
transacted.
June 5th. — Eight brethren present. William Bennett demitted.
June 8th. — Eleven brethren present. Committee appointed to make
arrangements for the proper observance of St. John's Day; after which
the Lodge closed.
June 12th. — Ten brethren present. Committee appointed at meeting
of June 8th reported, when it was unanimously resolved to invite the
Lodge at St. Genevieve.
June 24th. — Thirty-five brethren present, seventeen being visitors.
The day was celebrated by partaking of dinner at the house of Bro.
Paine.
July 3d. — Eleven brethren present.
July 10th. — Eighteen brethren present.
August 17th. — Six brethren present.
September 14th. — Eleven brethren present.
No business transacted at these four meetings.
October 2d. — Fifteen brethren present. Bro. Michael Jones demitte<i.
The Lodge passed resolutions of regret at losTng so old and active a
member as Bro. Jones, and appointed a committee to prepare an address
to Bro. Jones setting forth this feeling.* ^James_M. Duncan demitted.
The following extracts from the proceedings of the Grand Lodge of
Tennessee, furnished us by E. W. Bro. Frizzell, are here inserted in
order that the chronology may be followed :
"The Most Worshipful Grand Master reported that since the lost
Grand Annual Communication he had issued a dispensation to sundry
*Hro. Jones had removed to Gallatin county, and the visits he paid his Lodge
must have cost him seventy-five or one hundred miles travel.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 47
brethren residing at or near Edwardsville, Illinois, by name of Libanus
Lodge No. 29.
" Ordered that a charter issue to Libanus Lodge No. 29, upon receipt
of their proceedings, provided, it shall appear to the satisfaction of the
Most Worshipful Grand Master that their work has been in conformity
with the principles of Masonry." — [Proceedings Grand Lodge of Ten-
nessee, A. D. 1819.]
November 6th. — Eight brethren present, but no business, beyond the
excusing of sundry brethren for absence, was transacted.
December 4th. — Nineteen brethren present. "Charles Boon, Clark
Lodge No. 54, Louisville ; Francis Browne, St. John's Lodge, Onondaga,
New York, and Michael Jones," visiting,' Edmund Roberts was elected
W. M.; Josiah T. Betts, S. W.; W. Brown, J. W.; Jacob Teaman, Treas-
urer. Petition of Beal Greenup received and referred.
December llth. — The Lodge was called to consider a communication-
from Lancaster Lodge No. 43, " but it was received at so late a period •
that no order was taken." Nine brethren present.
December 27th. — At 8 o'clock in the morning brethren Bond, Fouke/
and Walker, assembled, and Bro. Roberts, Master elect, was installed-
in a Lodge of Past Masters, and that Lodge closed, and a Lodge of Mas-'
ter Masons opened, and called off until 10 o'clock A. M., at which time"
ten brethren were present, and the remainder of the elective officers '
installed. Bro. Cheek was appointed Secretary ; Bro. Sweet and Reynolds/
Deacons; Brethren Sweet and Gillis, Stewards; Bro. Fouke, Tyler. All for-
mer committees not having reported, were discharged, and new ones ap*-
pointed. A committee was appointed to settle with the Treasurers of 1817,
1818, and 1819; and the Secretary ordered to make proper returns to"
the Grand Lodge; in the performance of which duty, he was authorized
to " employ one or more brethren to assist him." Lodge closed at 12
o'clock M.
CHAPTER VII.
1820-21-22.
January 1st, 1820. — Ten brethren present. Beal Greenup initiated f
John M. Robinson elected, and the committee on accounts of the several
Treasurers of 1817, 1818, and 1819, made a partial report and were dis-
charged.
January 17th. — Thirteen brethren present. John Bivins raised.
January 28th. — Thirteen brethren present. John M. Robinson ini-
tiated, and Beal Greenup "advanced to the degree of Fellow Craft."
February 2nd. — Fourteen brethren present. Beal Greenup raised.
February 5th. — Twelve brethren present. "A. R. Griffin, Independent
Royal Arch Lodge No. 2, New York ; William G. Cunningham, Forti-
tude No. 82, Brooklin, Long island; John H. Burns, Mt. Holly No. 18,.
New Jersey," visiting. John M. Robinson passed and raised. Bro. John
Bivins desired to demit, " and referred his petition to the votes of the-
members ; which being taken, was found to be unanimously in favor of
his deruittance."
February 19th.— Fourteen brethren present. Robert Lattey demitted.
March 5th. — Fifteen brethren present. Petition of J. S. Davis received
and referred. The Treasurer and Secretary were ordered to attend at
an "adjourned meeting on Saturday night next, with their accounts
properly digested." A motion was made to adjourn, "which being put to-
vote, was unanimously sanctioned; whereupon the Lodge closed in pence
and harmony, at 9 o'clock P. M."
March llth. — "Met pursuant to adjournment." Twelve brethren
present. Ephraim Skinner, of Otsago No. 40, visiting. Bro. Warren
Brown introduced the following amendment to the by-laws. "In lieu
of the nightly dues, as heretofore required by the by-laws, each mem-
ber living within ten miles, shall pay quarter-yearly, one dollar. Every
member living at a greater distance than ten miles, shall pay half
yearly, one dollar; Provided, That any member living within ten miles,
being necessarily absent on a journey, or by reason of sickness, for the
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 49
space of three months, shall, upon excuse being rendered to the Lodge,
be charged only half price." Lodge closed.
April 1st. — Twelve brethren present. Michael Buyatte'demitted. All
business postponed, and the Lodge adjourned to the 15th April.
April loth. — " Met pursuant to adjournment." Ten brethren present.
The late Treasurer "ordered" to attend at the next meeting, and Bro.
Brown's amendment laid over.
May (>th. — Fourteen brethren present. Committee on petition of J. S.
Davis granted still further time. Committee appointed to settle with
Bro. Paine, late Treasurer, and Bro. Brown's amendment again laid
over.
June 3d. — Ten brethren present. No business beyond the allowance of
sundry bills transacted.
June 7th. — Nine brethren present. Present: Josiah T. Betts, W. M.,
pro tern.; Shadrach Bond, S. W., -pro tern.; Samuel Walker, J. W., pro-
tern.: Jacob Feaman, Treasurer ; James S. Cheek, Secretary ; Samuel C.
Christy, S. D.,pro tern.; Beal Greenup, J. D., pro tern.; Philip Fouke,
Tyler. Bro. Clement C. Conway visiting. A Lodge of Master Masons
was duly opened, and the honors of Masonic burial accorded to the
remains of Bro. George Fisher.
June 24th. — "Anniversary of St. John the Babtist." Twenty-seven
brethren present. Lodge of Entered Apprentices opened. After the
Lodge was opened, it was called from labor to enable the visiting breth-
ren present an opportunity " of placing a piece of crape on their arms,
in token of respect for and regret for Bro. George Fisher." Lodge called
on, and proceeded to the house of Mr. Cowles, where Bro. Michael Jones
delivered a "Masonic Oration," after which, " marshaled by Bro. E.
Carter, they proceeded to the house of Bro. Fouke, and partook of the
dinner and other refreshments provided, for the occasion."
The following extract is inserted here for reasons already given :
"The Grand Secretary reported that on the 28th of June, 1820, a dis-
pensation was granted to Bros. David Blackwell and others to open a new
Lodge in the town of ' BellevilleTluinois,' by the name of 'Temple
Lodge No. 35.'"* — [Proceedings Grand Lodge of Tennessee, A. D. 1820.]
July 1st. — Twelve brethren present. "Orlando Buckney, Worcester
Lodge, Connecticut," visiting. Lodge opened and adjourned to the Sat-*
urday following.
July 8th. — Seven brethren present. A committee was appointed to
procure another lodge-room, and the Lodge closed.
August 5th. — Eight brethren present. "Charles Marini, St. John's
Lodge No. 7, Ancona, Italy," visiting. Lodge opened, and adjourned to
meet on Thursday following. "N. B. — The Lodge did not meet pursuant
to adjournment. — Jas. S. Cheek, Sec."
*This report was made to the Grand Lodge, October 2, 1820.
—4
50 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
September 2d. — Nine brethren present. Xo business transacted.
We here insert other extracts from proceedings Grand Lodge of Ten-
nessee :
" The Grand Secretary reported that on the 5th of October last
charters were issued to Lodges Xos. 24, 26, 27, 28, and 30, and on the
fith day of the same month to Lodges Xos. 25 and 29, agreeably to the
directions of the Grand Lodge at their last annual communication."
"Resolved, That the Grand Secretary order, as soon as practicable,
and Temple Lodge Xo. 35, working under
dispensation, to return their dispensations, with their proceedings,
to the E. W. Grand Secretary, to be laid before the M. W. Grand Master
for his inspection, the former within thirty days, and the latter within
six months,- and if it shall appear that they have proceeded regularly,
charters shall be issued them respectively. If they fail to make returns
agreeably to this resolution, it shall be the duty of the Grand Master to
suspend their operations, and report them to the Grand Lodge at the
next Grand Annual Communication." — [Proceedings Grand Lodge of
Tennessee, A, D. 1820.
October 7th. — Seven brethren present. Lodge opened, and adjourned
until the Saturday following, neither the Master nor Wardens being
present.
October 9th. — Eight brethren present. Xo business of importance
transacted.
Xovember 4th. — Five brethren present. Breth. " Sheriden, Union
Lodge No. 66, N. Y.; II. Harding, Viucennes Lodge No. 1, Indiana,"
-visiting. Petition of Eussell Larribee received and referred. v
November 14th. — Seven brethren present. Petitions of John Atkins
for initiation, and Bro. E. Carter for affiliation, received and referred —
the latter reported on instanter, and he elected. The Lodge^was then
•closed on the first degree, and opened on the third, and the*"following
was passed : " Moved and ordered, That there be a committee Appointed
to inquire into the character of the Lodge in general, and make~a report
at the next stated meeting. Breth. Beal Greeuup, Walker, and Carter
were appointed a committee for the same."
November 16th. — Sixteen brethren present. " X. Hanson, Libanus
Lodge Xo. 29, Edwardsville," visiting. "A letter from our brethren at
Libanus Lodge Xo. 29, at Edwardsville, requesting that there should be
measures taken with the several Lodges of this State to form a Grand
Lodge. Motion made and carried that we coincide with the Libanus
Lodge to confer with the several Lodges of this State, that there may be
measures taken to establish a Grand Lodge. Resolved, That this Lo<ige
concur with Libanus Lodge Xo. 27 in (the) propriety and expediency
of establishing a Grand Lodge in this State, and that there be a com-
mittee appointed on the part of this Lodge to confer with that and the
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 51
-other Lodges on the subject, and in case of general concurrence in the
establishment of such Grand Lodge, with power to fix upon a certain
number of delegates from each of the several Lodges in this State, to
meet in convention, as also upon the time and place of such meeting of
such Lodges, and forming a constitution therefor. Committee: Bros.
Dodge, Reynolds, and Bond,* to confer with the several Lodges of this
State, to make necessary arrangements for said Grand Lodge."
December 2d. — Thirteen brethren present. Russell Larabee and John
Atkins initiated. Petitions of Jacob Hyberger for initiation, and Wm. C.
jGreenup for affiliation, received and referred. Philip Fouke elected
W7M.: EfCarter, S. W.; J. W. Gillis, J. W.; Beal Greenup, Treasurer.
December 9th. — Eight brethren present. Petition of Clement C. Conway,
for affiliation, received and referred, reported on instanter, and he elected.
John Atkins passed.
This is the last entry upon the book before us. That the Lodge was
in existence as late as 1829, detached papers in the hands of the Historian
will show, and which will appear in their proper place; and he is but
partially convinced that the residue of the records of this old Lodge are
irrevocably lost, but like the record of the organization of the first Grand
Lodge, when some good brother at Kaskaskia moves from his " old house
to a new one," the missing record will turn up. We trust it may.
On the second day of June, A. D. 1821, a number of brethren residing
at Alton, prepared and submitted,1 for the recommendation of Libanus
(or, as the certificate has it, Mount Libanus) Lodge, then working under
the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Tennessee, the following petition:
" To the Moat Hlrshipful Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of the State of Mis-
souri :
" The petitioners hereof humbly shew that they are Ancient, Free, and Ac-
cepted Master Masons. Having the prosperity of the Fraternity at heart, they
are willing to exert their best endeavors to promote and diffuse the genuine
principles of Freemasonry.
" For the convenience of their respective dwellings, and for other good
reasons, they are desirous of forming a new Lodge in the town of Alton, county
of Madison, and State of Illinois, to be named ' Olive Branch Lodge No. — .' In
consequence of this desire, and the good of the Craft, they pray for a dispensa-
tion empowering them to assemble as a legal Lodge, to discharge the duties of
Freemasonry in the several degrees of Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and
Master Mason in a regular and constitutional manner, according to the ancient
forms of the Fraternity and the laws and regulations of your Grand Lodge.
•'That they have nominated and do recommend Erastus Brown to be the first
Master; Hezekiah H. Gear to be the first Senior Warden ; and Henry H. Snow to
be the first Junior Warden of said Lodge; that if the prayer of the petition
should be granted, they promise a strict conformity to all the constitutional
laws, rules, and regulations of the Grand Lodge; and that if the proceedings of
: Henry S. Dodge, Thomas Reynolds, and Shadraeh Bond.
52 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
their Lodge shall meet the approbation of the said Grand Lodge, at the next
regular meeting of that Most Worshipful body, they, your petitioners, will apply
for a charter or warrant. And as in duty bound will ever pray.
"STATE OF ILLINOIS, MADISON COUNTY, ALTON, June 2, 1821."
This petition bore the following signatures : " Erastus Brown, M. M.,
Chad. Brown, M. M. M., Henry II. Snow, M. M., Nelson Aldrich, M. M.,
Joel Finch, M. M. M., Daniel Manross, M. M., Hezekiah H. Gear."
And the following certificate of recommendation by Mount Libanus
Lodge No. 29 :
'• To the Most Worshipful the Grand Master of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of
the State of Missouri — Sheweth :
"That this petition has fora long time been under consideration of Mount
Libanus Lodge, opened and held in Edwardsville, Illinois ; that said Lodge have
made all and every the necessary inquiries respecting the qualifications and
respectability of the petitioners, as also the locality of the place petitioned for ;
and, after calling a vote on the subject, it was carried in favor of the petition
being granted unanimously.
" Attest : NICHOLAS HANSON, Sec'y of s'd Lodge.
" EDWARDSVILLE, 19th September, 1821."
The name of JOHN WALLACE appears upon the petition, and was
inserted as the brother whom the petitioners wished appointed Senior
Warden. For some reason, not now apparent, his name was stricken
out of the petition entirely, and the name of HEZEKIAH II. GEAR sub-
stituted. This was done, evidently, after the petition had received the
recommendation of Libanus Lodge, as the original paper before us,
signed by brethren SNOW, BROWN, ALDRICH, MANROSS, CHAD. BROWN, and
GEAR, "deputes and appoints" Bro. JOEL FINCH for and in their behalf,
" to erase the name of JOHN WALLACE " [the word Bro. had been written
and erased], " from a petition to the M. W. Grand Master of the Grand
Lodge of Missouri, for letters of dispensation, by us subscribed; also, as
recommended for a Seignor Warden, and in the place of Bro. WALLACE,
as recommended aforesaid, to insert the name of Bro. HEZEKIAH H.
GEA.II." This was dated at Alton, October 22d, 1821.
On the thirtieth day of October, the following dispensation was issued:
"Six Lrx ET Lux FUIT.
" BT THE MOST WORHIPFOL NATHANIEL B. TUCKER, GRAND MASTER.
"To all and every our Right Worshipful and loving brethren greeting :
" Know ye that the Most Worshipful Nathaniel B. Tucker, Grand Master, at the
humble petition of our Right Worshipful and well beloved brothers Erastus
Brown, Hezekiah H. Gear, Henry H. Snow, and several other brethren residing
at and near the town of Allton, Madison county, State of Illinois, of the ancient
and honorable Fraternity of York Masons, and for certain other reasons moving
our Worshipful Grand Master, do hereby constitute the said brethren into a
regular Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons, to be opened in the town of Allton,
by the name of Olive Branch Lodge No. 5. At their said request and of the
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 53
•great trust and confidence reposed in every of the said brethren, the Most Wor-
shipful Grand Master doth hereby appoint Bro. Erastus Brown, Worshipful
Master, Bro. Hezekiah H. Gear, Senior Warden, and Bro. Henry H. Snow,
Junior Warden for opening the said Lodge and governing the same.
It is required of our friend and brother the Worshipful Erastus Brown, to take
special care that all and every of the said brethren of your Lodge, as well those
hereafter to be admitted into our body by your Lodge, be regularly made Ma-
sons; and that they do observe, perform, and keep all the rules and orders con-
tained in our book of Constitutions, and the ancient landmarks be strictly
attended to: and further, that you cause to be entered in a book kept for that
purpose, an account of your proceedings; which, when done you are required
to transmit herewith to the Grand Master (with a list of those initiated,
passed, and raised, or otherwise managed) at our next Grand Semi-annual Com-
munication.
"Given at St. Louis under the hand and seal of the Most Worshipful Grand
Master, this 30th day of October, A. L, 5821 A. D. 1821.
" N. B. TUCKER, G. M.
" WM. REXSHA.W, O. Secy."
In the mean time the following action was had in the Grand Lodge of
Tennessee :
October 1, 1821.—" The Grand Secretary reported, * that * *
and Temple Lodge No. 35, have surrendered their dispensations without
working under them." Temple Lodge, it will be remembered, was
iocated at Belleville, David Blackwell being first Master. On referring
to the minutes of Western Star Lodge, at their meeting of December 27,
1818, Bro. Blackwell is noted as a visitor, hailing from 'Solomon Lodgo
No. 5, Kentucky.
November 7th, 1821. —Olive Branch Lodge having received its dis-
pensation, the following brethren assembled : Erastus Brown, Hezekiah
H. Gear, Henry H. Snow, Chad. Brown, Nelson Aldrich, Daniel Manross,
Joseph T. Bennett, and James W. Whitney. Appointments were made
as follows: Chad. Brown, Secretary ; Jos. T.Bennett, Treasurer : Nel-
son Aldrich and Daniel Manross, Deacons; and the Lodge was then
duly opened on the first degree, Erastus Brown presiding, brethren Gear
and Snow being Wardens. The Lodge, after it was regularly opened,
gave the appointments made as above stated the cold shoulder, and pro-
ceeded to an election which resulted in electing Bro. Joe^ Finch, Treas-
urer; Chad. Brown, Secretary. The nominations for Deacons were con-
curred in. Brethren E. Brown, C. Brown, and Snow were appointed a
committee to prepare by-laws. And after receiving the "application."
of Bro. J. W. Whitney, a Fellow Craft, to be raised, adjourned to the
following day.
November 8th. — "Lodge met pursuant to-adjournment. Present as be-
fore." The committee on by-laws reported, and their report was adopted,
amending it only by striking out six o'clock as the hour of meeting, and
inserting "four of the clock." These by-laws were carefully drawn up,
54 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
are short and right to the point. One or two things it would be well
perhaps to note: The first election for officers, W. M., Wardens, Treas-
urer, and Secretary, was to be held in the May following, " forever after
that, semi-annually, in the months of September and March." The
Master was to decide all questions of order which came before the Lodge,
" subject to an appeal to the Lodge by any two members." The Master
" might" call any brother to preside. In the absence of the Master and
Wardens, the Lodge could not be opened, but if the Master was absent,
the "presiding Warden" might take the East, or call upon the oldest
Past Master present to relieve him. Visiting brethren were required to
pay twenty-five cents after the first visitation "in any one year." The
Tyler was entitled to fifty cents for each evenings' service, to be paid
from the Treasury, and to collect for his own use, twenty-five cents from
every candidate initiated, passed, and raised, and every brother affiliated.
Entered Apprentices were to remain as such three months, and Fel-
low Crafts two months, before advancement; provided, however, that if
a brother became thoroughly acquainted with all the information belong-
ing to his degree, he might, at the discretion of the Lodge, "be advanced
in less time." All amendments were to be proposed and seconded by
Master Masons. Brethren Snow and Gear were appointed a "standing
committee on investigations." Bro. James W. Whitney was raised.
Petitions of Benjamin Spencer, Charles Gear, and Augustus Langworthy
received and referred to the standing committee.
November 20th. — Eight brethren present. "Southard Shaw" visiting.
"Voted that Bro. Whitney be allowed to become a member of this
Lodge upon signing the by-laws." Bro. Shaw petitioned for the degree
of Fellow Craft, which was conferred upon him. Petition of J. 'B. Fay
received and referred.
December 13th. — Eight brethren present. Samuel Ingraham and
William Scott visiting. Petitions of Alexander Hart, Edward Bishop,
and Benjamin Harwood received and referred. Benjamin Spencer,.
Jonathan B. Fay, and Charles Gear initiated.
On the 20th of December the following petition was drawn up and
forwarded to Vincennes Lodge No. 1, Indiana, for their recommendation :
" To the Bir/ht Worshipful Grand Master, Grand Wardens, and Brethren of the Grand
Lodge of Indiana :
" The petition of your brethren undersigned, respectfully represents that they
are or have been members of regular Lodges; that having the prosperity of the
Fraternity at heart, they are willing to exert their best endeavors to promote
and diffuse the genuine principles of Masonry ; that for the convenience of their
respective dwellings and for other good reasons, they are desirous of forming a
new Lodge at Albion, in the county of Edwards and State of Illinois, to be named
Albion Lodge. That in consquence of this desire they, pray for letters oPttis-
pensation or a warrant of constitution, to empower them to assemble as a legal
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. r,.j
Lodge to discharge the duties of Masonry in a regular and constitutional man-
ner, according to the original forms of the Order, and regulations of the Grand
Lodge.
•• That they have nominated and do recommend James O. Wattles to be the first
Muster, John B. Johnson to be the first Senior Warden, and Arnold B. Dake to be
the first Junior Warden of said Lodge. That if the prayer of their petition
should be granted, they promise a strict conformity to all the constitutional
law-; and regulations of the Grand Lodge, and in duty bound will ever pray, Ac.
"JAMES O. WATTLES,
ASEL WILL-SON,
J. B. JOHNSON,
WM. A. CROWCE,
A. B. DAKE,
JOHN HIGGINS,
DAVID DUJMDAS,
JAMES CAMPBELL,
"ALBION, 20th December, A. L. 5821. JAMES HUTCH ENS."
January 17, 1822 — Olive Branch Lodge. — Ten brethren present.
" Doctor Augustus Langworthy initiated, and Southard Shaw raised."
January 10th. — Eleven brethren present. Alexander Hart and Ben-
jamin Harwood initiated. Benjamin Spencer and Charles Gear passed.
Petitions of Levi Roberts, Ossian M. Ross, and Samuel Rhodes, received
and referred.
January 24th. — Fourteen brethren present. Benjamin Spencer and
Charles Gear raised.
On February 7th, the following petition was presented to Libanus
Lodge No. 29, for recommendation, which was granted :
'' To Grand Lodge of Missouri :
"Your petitioners, Master Mason?, being domiciled in Vandalia (the seat of
Government), in the State of Illinois, respectfully shevveth, that they are free
and accepted Master Masons ; that they have been members of regular Lodges ;
that having the prosperity of the Fraternity at heart, they are willing to exert
their best endeavours to promote and diffuse the genuine principles of Masonry.;
that for the conveniency of their respective dwellings (there being no Lodge
within fifty Miles), and for other good reasons, tKey are desirous of forming a
new Lodge in the Town of VandaliJ, to be named ' Vandalia Lodge;' that, in
consequence of this desire, they pray lor Letters of dispensation, or a warrant
of constitution, to empower them to assemble as a legal Lodge, to discharge the
duties of Masonry in a regular and constitutional manner, according to the
original forms of the order and the regulations of the Grand Lodge. That they
have nominated and recommend James M. Duncan to be the first Master ; John
Warnook to be the first Senior Warden; and William L. D. Ewing to be the ftrst
Junior Warden of the said Lodge; that if the prayer of the petition, should be
56 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
granted, they promise a strict conformity to all the constitutional law* and
regulations of the grand Lodge.
^JAS._M^ DUNCAN.
WM. LEE D. EW1NG,
JOHN C. KELLOGG,
MOSES K. BOTSFORD,
JOSEPH ENOS,
GREEN P. RICE,
E. C. BERRY."
" EDWARDSVILLE, February 7th, 1822, A. L. 5822.
"At a Regular Meeting of Libanus Lodge No. 29, the foregoing Petition was
presented. It was unanimously agreed to recommend the same to the Grand
Lodge of Missouri, and pray that a Dispensation or charter be granted.
'•JOHN Y. SAWYER, Master.
"Jons TODD, Secretary."
February 14th — Olive Branch Lodge. — Fifteen brethren present.
Breth. John Y. Sawyer, W. M. Libanus Lodge, William Scott, and
Phinney, visiting. Petition of Edward Bishop withdrawn. Levi
Roberts initiated.
February 21st. — Sixteen brethren present. Breth. Fay and Lang-
worthy passed.
February 25th. — Twelve brethren present. Benjamin Harwood passed.
On the first of March the following recommendation was granted :
"VINCENNES LODGE No. 1, March 1st, A. L. 5822, A. D. 1822.
" This being a called Lodge by order of the W. Master, for the purpose of
taking into consideration a petition from a number of brothers residing in and
near Albion, in Edwards county, Illinois, and after having properly examined
Brothers Jas. O. Wattles and A. B. Dake, who attended with said petition, and
finding them well skilled, and they having vouched lor the remainder of the
signers;
" On motion,
"Resolved, That this Lodge do recommend the brothers named in the within
petition to the Most Worshipful the Grand Lodge of Indiana, agreeably to the
prayer of the petition.
"I, Elihu Stout, Secretary of Vincennes Lodge No. 1, do hereby certify the
above to be a true copy of the proceedings of said Lodge on said petition.
" In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the seal of
Vincennes Lodge No. 1, this 2d day of March, A. L. 5822, A. D. 1822.
(Seal.) "E. STOUT, Sec'y P. L."
This petition was indorsed: "Albion Lodge, 12th March, 1822. Re-
ceived 5.00 La wrenceburgh paper," and was accompanied by the follow-
ing letter :
" VINCENNES, 5th March, 1822.
" DEAR SIR:— At the request of Judge Wattles, I forward you the petition of a
number of the brethren residing in Albion, Illinois, and recommended by the Vin-
oennes Lodge No. 1. They are desirous of having a letter of dispensation for-
warded to me immediately, unless some business might induce you to visit this
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 57
section of country. The officers mentioned in the petition are very expert
workmen, and their prospects of success quite flattering. I was not properly
«ware of the amount of funds necessary to accompany the petition, but believing
it to be five dollars, they left that sum in my hands, which I now inclose to you.
Please forward the dispensation without delay, as they have a room prepared,
and are very anxious to be installed as soon as possible.
" With respect, yours fraternally,
"JAMES T. MOFFATT.
•' P. 8. — Be so good as to advise me of any arrangements which are or may be
made for the organization of a Grand Chapter in this State.
"John Sheets, Esq., Madison, Indiana."
March 7th — Olive Branch Lodge. — Thirteen brethren present. Ossian
M. Ross initiated.
March 14th. — Fifteen brethren present. Jonathan B. Fay raised.
Petitions of Charles W. Hunter and Samuel Slater received and referred.
March 15th. — Sixteen brethren present. Bro. Hibbard visiting.
AflV Breth. Langworthy and Harwood raised.
Si. * March 27th. — Thirteen brethren present. The Finance Committee
t reported the receipts of the Lodge to be $155.83; due the Lodge, $11.17;
paid out for dispensation, furniture, Ac., $119.83 ; balance in treasury,
$36.00.
On the 4th of April, 1822, the following petition was presented to
Libanus Lodge No. 29 for their recommendation, and the recommenda-
tion granted :
" To the Worshipful Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, Grand Wardens, and breth-
ren of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of Missouri :
" Your petitioners respectfully beg leave to represent that they are Free and
Accepted Master Masons, that they have been members of regular Lodges, and
having the prosperity of the Fraternity at heart, are willing to exert their best
endeavors to promote and diffuse the genuine principles of Masonry. That for
the conveniency of their respective dwellings, and for other good reasons, are
desirous of forming a new Lodge in the town of Springfield, county of Sangamon ,
and State of Illinois, to be called Sangamon Lodge No. — ; and that in conse-
quence of this desire, they pray for letters of dispensation from your honorable
body (there being no Grand Lodge in said State of Illinois) to empower them to
assemble as a legal Lodge, to discharge the duties of Masonry in a regular
and constitutional manner, according to the original forms of the Order, and the
regulations of your Grand Lodge. That they have nominated and do recommend
Stephen Stillman to be the first Master, Gershom Jayne to be the first Senior
Warden, and John Moore to be the first Junior Warden of the said Lodge. That
if the prayer of your petitioners should be granted, they promise a strict con-
formity to all the constitutional laws and regulations of the Grand Lodge.
"JAS. LATHAM,
STEPHEN PHELPS,
STEPHEN STILLMAN,
GERSHOM JAYNE,
THOS. CONSTANT,
CHARLES WRIGHT,
ollAMEL CLARK,
JOHN MORE."
58 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"LIBANUS LODGE No. 29, April 4th, 1822, A. L. 5822.
"The within petition from sundry brother Masons of Sangamon County, pray-
ing to be recommended by this Lodge to the Grand Lodge of Missouri for letters
of dispensation, was presented and read, and each petitioner being properly
vouched for, it is ordered that this Lodge do recommend said petitioners as
prayed for.
" JOHN TODD, Secretary. JOHN Y. SAWYER, Master.
"A true copy from the record. JOHN TODD, Secretary."
And on the fifth of April the following dispensation was issued :
"SIT LUX ET LUX FU1T.
" BY THE MOST WORSHIPFUL NATHANIEL B. TUCKER, GRAND MASTER.
" To all and every, our Right Worshipful and Loving Brethren — Greeting:
"Know ye, that the most Worshipful Nathaniel B. Tucker, Graiid Master, at
the humble petition of our Right Worshipful and well beloved brethren, Stephen
Stillman, Gershom Jayne, John Moore, and several others residing at and near
the town of Springfield, county of Sangamo, State of Illinois, of the Ancient and
Honorable Fraternity of York Masons, and for certain other reasons moving our
Worshipful Grand Master do hereby constitute the said brothers into a regular
Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons, to be opened in the town of Springfield, by
the name of Sangamo Lodge No. 9. At their said request, and of the great trust
and confidence reposed in every of the said brethren, the Most Worshipful Grand
Master doth hereby appoint Bro. Stephen Stillman, Master, Bro. Gershom Jayne,
Senior Warden, and Bro. John Moore, Junior Warden, for opening the said Lodge
and governing the same. It is required of our friend and brother, the Worship-
ful Stephen Stillman, to take special care that all and every of the said brethren
of your Lodge, as well those hereafter to be admitted into our body by your
Lodge, be regularly made Masons, and that they do observe, perform, and keep
all the rules and orders contained in our Book of Constitutions, and the ancient
landmarks be attended to: and further, that you cause to be entered in a book
kept for that purpose, an account of your proceedings, which, when done, you
are required to transmit herewith to the Grand Master (with a list of those in-
itiated, passed, and raised, or otherwise managed) at our next Grand Annual
Communication.
"Given at St. Louis, under the hand and seal of the Most Worshipful Grand
Master, this 5th day of April, A. L. 5822, A. D. 1822.
"TH. DOUGLASS, = :
"D. G. M., and O. M. pro. tern. ;8F;^Lj
"Attest: WM. RENSHAW, G. Sec'y."
April 13th — Olive Branch Lodge No. 5. — Seventeen brethren present,
" together with the W. M., Wardens, and brethren of Libanus Lodge No.
29." " Lodge opened on the first degree, when a message was sent to
the members of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Missouri, assembled
in an adjoining room, who appeared and took their seats. Worshipful
George H. C. Melody produced a letter from the Most Worshipful Grand
Lodge of Missouri authorizing him to consecrate this Lodge and install
the officers." The Lodge was then regularly constituted, and the officers
installed, as will be seen bv the annexed certificate :
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 59
"ALTON, 15th April, 1822.
" Bro. G. H. C. Melody produced his authority from the Grand Lodge of Mis-
souri, to consecrate and install the officers of Olive Branch Lodge No. 5. The
Lodge was opened on the first degree of Masonry. Present: M. W. G. H. C.
Melody, G. M., pro tern.; R. W. Lewis C. Beck, D. G. M., pro tern.; W. John Y.
Sawyer, G. S. W., pro tern.; W. James Watts, G. J. W., pro tern.; W. R. T. McKen-
ney, G. S., pro tern.; W. D. T. Evans, G. T., pro tern. The Grand Secretary read the
charter from the Grand Lodge of Missouri. A Past Master's Lodge was then
opened, and the degree of Past Master was conferred on Bro. Erastus Brown.
The Past Master's Lodge was closed in due form. The Lodge was consecrated,
and the following officers were installed by the M. W. G. Master. Erastus
Brown, W. Master; Hezekiah Gear, S. Warden; Henry H. Snow, J. Warden; Joel
Finch, Treasurer ; Benjamim Spencer, Secretary; Nelson Aldrich, S. Deacon ;
Daniel Manross, J. Deacon ; Augustus Langworthy and Benjamin Harwood, Stew-
ards; C. Gear, Marshal; Southard Shaw, Tyler. The Lodge was closed in due
and ample form.
"G. H. C. MELODY, W. M.
" R. T. McKENXEY, G. Secretary."
The brethren then proceeded to the " schoolhouse, where an oration
was delivered by Bro. Lewis C. Beck, of St. Louis.'* On returning to
the ball, brethren Brown, Snow, and Langworthy were appointed a
committee to procure the publication of Bro. Beck's oration. Bro.
Melody was voted fifteen dollars. i
April 17th. — Eleven brethren present. The committee intrusted with
that business reported that Bro. Beck declined furnishing a copy of his
oration.
April 22nd. — Fifteen brethren present. Samuel W. Rhodes an$
Samuel Slater initiated. Petition of Jonathan Haskill received and
referred. A dispensation having been received on the 26th of April,
1822, the following brethren met at Vandalia, viz: James M. Duncan,
John Warnock, W. L. D. Ewing, Joseph Enos, John C. Kellogg, Moses
K. Botsford, and E. C. Berry. Of these we recognize but two, fames' M.
Duncan, of Western Star Lodge, and E. C. Berry, who visited that Lodge
June 24, 1818, and July 10, 1819. The dispensation was presented
by Bro. Melody, when it was ascertained that the name of one of
the petitioners (Green P. Rice) had been stricken off. After consul^
tation, the dispensation was accepted, and " twenty-three dollars in spe-
cie paid Bro. Melody, for the same." The brethren then separated, to
meet again on the morrow at 11 o'clock.
April 27th. — Same brethren as before, with the addition of brethren
L. C. Beck and Wjlliam Hughes, of Missouri Lodge No. 1. Petitions of
John S. Duncan, and W. II. Brown received, referred, and reported on
unstanter, and both initiated, and John S. Duncan passed.
April 29th.— Eight brethren present. George H. C. Melody, Grand
Visitor, presiding. Petitions of Russell Botsford, Frederick Hollman,
ttO HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
and Robert Baird received and referred. William II. Brown passed and
raised. Russell Botsford initiated.
April 30th. — Same brethren present with the addition of Bro. Brown.
Petition of Waters Baugh received and referred. Robert Baird, Fredrick
Hollman, and Waters Baugh initiated. Russell Botsford passed. Peti-
tion of Nathaniel Sanburn received and referred.
May 1st. — Ten brethren present. Nathaniel Sanburn initiated. Rus-
sell Botsford raised. Committee on by-laws reported, and report adopt-
ed. These by-laws are much the same as at the present day, although
one or two passages might cause amusement now :
Section 16 authorized a Master to fine a brother for misconduct, in or
out of the Lodge.
Section 12 provided that at the initiation of a candidate, he should be
presented with a plain white apron and a copy of the by-laws, a cus-
tom which Lodges at the present day would do well to imitate.
Section 18 provided that every brother should be examined before ad-
vancement, which section we opine was suspended on divers occasions.
Section 22: "Be it further ordained, that no member of this Lodge
below the degree of Master Mason shall be permitted to vote on any ques-
tion which may come before the Lodge." This is the- first Lodge in the
West, that we are aware of, to take this step. Frederiak Hollman, Rob-
ert Baird, Waters Baugh, and Nathaniel Sanburn passed. Hollman and
Baugh were passed together, Sanburn and Baugh in tie same way.
May 2d. — " Lodge met pursuant to adjournment." Petitions of Rowland
R. Holmes and James Hull received and referred. A resolution of
thanks to Breth. Melody, Beck, and Hughes, for their assistance, was
passed.
May 5th. — Seven brethren present. Breth. Hdmes and Hull ini-
tiated. Robert Baird raised. Bill for expenses of Breth. Melody, Hughes,
and Beck, amounting to $76.40, allowed, and ordered paid. .E. C. Berry
was appointed Secretary; M. K. Botsford and JolmC. Kellogg, Deacons;
Jos. Enos, Tyler; W_m. H. Brown, elected Treasurer.,
May 6th — Olive Branch Lodge NoT b. — Twelve brethren present. S.
P. Hibbard, visiting. No business transacted.
May 8th — Vandalia Lodge No. 8. — Seven brethren present. Rowland
R. Holmes, and James Hull passed.
May 9th — Olive Branch Lodge No. 5. — Thirteen brethren present. On
motion of Bro. Whitney, the Lodge went into election <cby general
ticket." On the first ballot, for Master, Bro. Eirastus Brown received 4
votes; H. H. Snow, 3 ; Nelson Aldrich, 1. For Senior Warden, H. II.
Gear had 2 votes; H. H. Snow, 2; Nelson Aldrich, 2; Benj. Spencer, 2;
and Charles Gear, 1. For Junior Warden, Nelson Aldrich had 5 votes;
II. II. Snow, 2; Charles Gear, 1 ; B. Spencer, 1. For Treasurer, II. II.
Gear had 5 votes; Joel Finch, 4. For Secretary, Benj. Spencer had
HISTORY OP MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. Gl
5 v«fces ; A. Langworthy, 3; and J. W. Whitney, 1. The result was
that Nelson Aldrich was declared elected Junior Warden; II. H.
Gear, Treasurer; and Benjamin Spencer, Secretary; leaving the Master
an-fi Senior Warden to be elected. On the next ballot Bro. Snow re-
ceived 6 votes, and was delared elected W. M.; no S. W. elected. Where-
upon it was again tried, and still no election. Whereupon Bro. Aldrich
WOT elected. As he had just been elected Junior Warden, the first elec-
tion was declared void, and Bro. Aldrich declared elected Senior Warden.
Upon motion, both elections (S. and J. Wardens) were declared void,
and the Lodge proceeded to do what had ought to have been done be-
fore— vote for these offices separately. The result was that Bro. Aldrich
was elected S. W.; and Charles Gear, J. W. Breth. Langworthy and
Shaw were appointed Deacons; Hart and Harwood, Stewards. Petition
«f S. P. Hibbard, for affiliation, received and referred. Petition of C. W.
Hunter withdrawn. Officers elect installed.
May 10th. — Twelve brethren present. Jonathan Haskill initiated.
On the 29th May, 1822, the following petition was presented to Unity
Lodge No. 6, Jackson, Missouri, for recommendation, which recommen-
dation was granted :
•" To the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Missouri:
"We the undersigned Free and Accepted Master Masons, being at present and
having been members of regular Lodges, and having the prosperity of the Frater-
nity at heart, are willing to exert our best endeavors to promote and diffuse the
genuine principles of Masonry. And for the conveniency of our respective dwell-
ings and for other good reasons, we are desirous of forming a new Lodge in the
town of Jonesborough, Union county and State of Illinois, to be named "Union
Lodge," and in consequence of this desire we pray for letters of dispensation or
a warrant of constitution to empower us to assemble as a legal Lodge, to dis-
charge the duties of Masonry in a regular and constitutional manner, according
to the original forms of the Order and the regulations of the Grand Lodge. And
we have nominated, and do recommend Richard J. Hamilton to be the first
Master, James Finney to be the first Senior Warden, and William M. Alexander
to be the first Junior Warden of the said Lodge. And if the prayer of the peti-
tion should be granted, we promise a strict conformity to all the constitutional
laws and regulations of the Grand Lodge.
"RICHARD J. HAMILTON, JAMES FINNEY,
JAMES S. SMITH, BEN W. BROOKS,
AVM. M. ALEXANDER, ABNEB FIELD,
GEORGE WOLF, JEPTHA SWEET."
"At a special meeting of Unity Lodge No. G, held in the town of Jackson, State
of Missouri, on Wednesday evening the 29th of May, A. L. 5822 — . On applica-
tion of sundry Masons of Jonesborough, Union county, State of Illinois, to be
admitted to form a Lodge in the above town. Ordered that the brothers named
in the said petition be recommended to the Grand Lodgo of Missouri, for dis-
pensation.
" C. BUCKNER, W. M.
EDWARD S. GANTT, S. W.
J. FRIZEL, J. If."
62 II ISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
" I certify the above to be a true copy from the records of Unity Lodge No. G,
State of Missouri. Given under my hand and private seal, there being no Lodge
seal yet provided.
" H. NEALE, Secretary."
In James Finney, Win. M. Alexander, and Jeptha Sweet we recognize
familiar names. They were all three made in Western Star Lodge, at
Kaskaskia.
June 1st — Vnndalia Lodge No. 8.— Seventeen brethren present. Joseph
May, of Hiram Lodge, Bridgeport, Connecticut, visiting. John S. Dun^
n.in_ra.ised. - Petition of Cyrus Birge and Horatio Newhall, of Greenville,
received and referred.
June 4th. — Ten brethren present. Waters Baugb, Frederick Hollman,
Nathaniel Sanburu raised. Breth. Russell Botsford and Hollman
appointed Stewards. The Lodge resolved to celebrate St. John's Day.
June 4th. — The following dispensation was issued. The date (May 4)
is an evident mistake, as the petition was not recommended until the
29th of May, and was not forwarded until the 30th of the same month ,
as will be seen by the accompanying letter :
"SIT LUX ET LUX FUIT.
" BT THE MOST WORSHIPFUL NATHANIEL BEVERLY TUCKER, GRAND MASTER.
" To nil and every our Right Worshipful and loving Brethren Greeting:
"Know ye, that the Most Worshipful Nathaniel Beverly Tucker, Grand Mas-
ter, at the humble petition of our Right Worshipful and well beloved Brothers
R. J. Hamilton, James Finney, William M- Alexander and several other brethren
residing at and near Jonesborough, Union county, State of Illinois, of the an-
cient, and honorable Fraternity of York Masons, and for other reasons moving
our Worshipful Grand Master, do hereby constitute the said brethren into a
regular Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons, to be opened in the town'bf Jones-
borough, county and State aforesaid, by the name of 'Union Lodge No. 10.' At
their said request and of the great trust and confidence reposed in every of the
said brethren, .the Most Worshipful Grand Master doth hereby appoint Bro.
Richard J. Hamilton, Worshipful Master, Bro. James Finney, Senior Warden,
and Bro. William M. Alexander, Junior Warden for opening the said Lodge and
governing the same. It is required of our friend and brother the Worshipful
Richard J. Hamilton, to take special care that all and every of the said brethren
of your Lodge, as well those hereafter to be admitted into our body by your
Lodge, be regularly made Masons, and that they do observe, perform, and keep
all the rules and orders contained in our book of Constitutions and the ancient
landmarks be strictly attended to: and further, that you cause to be entered
in a book kept for that purpose, an account of your proceedings, which when
done you are required to transmit herewith to the Grand Master (with a list of
those initiated, passed, and raised, or otherwise managed), at our next Annual
Communication.
" Given at Saint Louis under the hand and seal of the Most Worshipful Grand
Master this fourth day of May, A. L. 5822, A. I), isi'2.
"N. B. TUCKER, G. M. -V.
"Attest. WM. RKXSHAW, G. Secretary."1
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 63
"Jo.NESBORouGH, ILL., 30th May, 1822.
•• .1/W Worshipful Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Missouri:
"DEAR SIR:— We have forwarded to you a petition and recommendation for
a dispensation or warrant of Constitution, and should you be pleased to grant
it, be so good as to inform us of the amount at Jonesborough, Illinois, for the
fee, and it shall be forwarded immediately and much oblige.
"Yours, very Respectfully,
"ABNER FIELD,
BEN W. BROOKS."
June Sth — Vandalia Lodge No. 8. — Fifteen brethren present. J. Pew,
Montgomery Lodge No. 23, Ky., and Benjamin Mills, Astrea Lodge No.
85, Virginia, visiting. Rowland R. Holmes raised.
June J3th — Olive Branch Lodge No. 5. — Eleven brethren present.
Bro. Langworthy reported that he had prevailed on Bro. Beck to present
the Lodge with a copy of his address before the Lodge at its consecration,
and that Mr. Orr, printer, at St. Louis, offered to print fifty copies for
$25.00, to be paid in Illinois State paper. Bro. Langworthy was author-
ized to have the printing done. On motion of Bro. Spencer, the petition
of Major C. W. Hunter was again taken up, and on motion of Bro. E.
Brown, the Lodge was called from labor to refreshment for "one half
hour," at the expiration of which time the Lodge was called on, and Mr.
Hunter's petition laid on the table.
June 15th — Vandalia Lodge No. 8. — Twelve brethren present. Robert
Montgomery, Franklin Lodge No. 14, Ohio, visiting. An amendment to
the by-laws was proposed, and laid over, to the effect that when a candi-
date received either of the degrees at a special communication, he should
pay five dollars in addition to the regular fees. The Lodge then closed.
June 20th — Olive Branch Lodge No. 5. — Nine brethren present. Bro.
Samuel Slater passed. S. P. Hibbard affiliated.
June 21st. — Eight brethren present. Petition of C. W. Hunter taken
from table, he elected and initiated.
June 22d. — The dispensation having been received, Union Lodge No.
10 was organized on the twenty-second day of June, 1822. The following
brethren were present at the first meeting : Richard J. Hamilton, W. M.;
Abner Field, B. W. Brooks, James S. Smith. Breth. Finney, S. "W., and
Win. M. Alexander, J. W., were not present. Breth. Field and Smith
were appointed to serve in their places. Lodge opened on the third
degree, which was closed, and a Lodge of F. C. opened, whereupon Bro.
Humphrey B. Jones, a Fellow Craft of Hopkiusville Lodge No. 37, Ky.,
was admitted as a visitor. A committee, consisting of Breth. Field and
Brooks, was appointed to prepare by-laws.
June 23d. — Six brethren present. Breth. Jacob Hunsaker, of Union
Lodge No. — , Pennsylvania, and H. B. Jones were admitted as members
64 HISTORY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS.
upon a motion made to that effect. B. W. Brooks was appointed Sec-
retary, and Abner Field, Treasurer. H. B. Jones was raised.
June 24th — Vandalia Lodge No. 8. — Eighteen brethren present.
Martin Jones and Seth Converse, of Western Star Lodge, visiting.
CHIP'S M-T)ni^°" delivered an oration, and the Lodge partook of a
dinner provided by Bro. Hollman.
June 24th — Union Lodge No. 10. — Seven brethren present. Rev. and
Bro. G. "W. Wolf was appointed Chaplain, and delivered a sermon at
twelve o'clock. The Lodge then proceeded to the house of " M. Collins,
Esq.," " and partook of a sumptuous repast."
June 25th. — Same brethren present as on the day previous. Petitions-
of Winstead Davy, Samuel Hunsaker, Sr., Richard M. Young, George
Hunsaker, John C. Collins, Charles Dunn, and James F. Bond received
and referred. A committee was appointed, and directed to procure the
following articles : " Five Lodge tables, three gavels, two pillars, three
benches, and a ballot box."
June 26th — Olive Branch Lodge No. 5. — Six brethren present. Geo. H.
C. Melody, Grand Visitor, presiding. An examination of the affairs of
the Lodge and the records was had.
June 26th. — The following petition was prepared and forwarded to
Missouri Lodge No. 1, for its recommendation, which recommendation,
as appears from an indorsement on the petition by the Grand Secretary,
was granted :
" To the Most Worshipful the Grand Master and Brethren of the Most Worshipful
the Grand Lodge of Missouri:
"Your petitioners, inhabitants of the town of Covington and its vicinity, all
have been regularly entered, passed, and raised to the degree of Master Mason
in regular constituted Lodges, and at present reside at so great a distance froin
any Lodge, that they are cut off from most of the advantages of this ancient
Order, and being desirous of diffusing the genuine principles of the Order, and
rendering themselves useful to the Craft, do pray a warrant of dispensation or
charter constituting them a new Lodge at the town of Covington, in the State of
Illinois, by the name of" Eden Lodge," authorizing them to assemble and work
as Ancient York Masons, and they do nominate John Smith for their first Master,
Charles Mullikin for their first Senior Warden, and Thomas G. Gazley for their
first Junior Warden of said new Lodge, and your petitioners, as in duty bound,
will ever pray, &c.
"JOHN SMITH,
CHARLES MULLIKIN,
THOS. G. GAZLEY,
JOS. PHILIPS,
DANIEL S. SWEARINGEX,
ISAAC HUGHSON, JR.,
ADDISON PHILLEO,
JAMES TURNEY,
PHILO BEERS.
" COVINGTOX, June 2Gth, 1822."
HISTORY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS. 65
Two of the brethren on this petition are old acquaintances — Jos.
Phillips and Daniel S. Swearingen, both formerly of Western Star Lodge.
June 23th — Olive Branch Lodge Xo. 5. — Eight brethren present. Xo
business transacted.
June 30th. — The following dispensation was granted :
"SIT LUX ET LUX FUIT.
"BY THE MOST WORSHIPFUL NATHANIEL B. TCCKER, GRAND MASTER.
" To nil and every our Right Worshipful and Loving Brethren— Greeting :
"Know ye, that the Most Worshipful Nathaniel B. Tucker, Grand Master, at the
humble petition of our right worshipful and well beloved brothers, John Smith,
Charles Mullikin, Thomas G. Gazley, and several other brethren residing at and
near the town of Covington, State of Illinois, of the Ancientand Honorable Frater-
nity of York Masons, and for certain other reasons moving, our Worshipful Grand
Master do hereby constitute the said brethren into a regular Lodge of Free and
Accepted Masons, to be opened in the town of Covington, by the name of Eden
Lodge No. 11. At their said request, and of the great trust and confidence re-
posed in every of the said brethren, the Most Worshipful Grand Master doth
hereby appoint Bro. John Smith, Worshipful Master; Bro. Charles Mullikin,
Senior Warden ; and Bro. Thomas G. Gazley, Junior Warden, for opening the
said Lodge and governing the same. It is required of our friend and brother,
the Worshipful John Smith, to take special care that all and every of the said
brethren of your Lodge, as well those hereafter to be admitted into our body
by your Lodge, be regularly made Masons, and that they do observe, perform,
and keep all the rules and orders contained in our Book of Constitutions, and
the ancient landmarks be strictly attended to : and further, that you cause to be
entered in a book kept for that purpose, an account of your proceedings, which,
when done, you are required to transmit to the Grand Master herewith (with a
list of those initiated, passed and raised, or otherwise managed), at our next
Grand Annual Communication.
•'Given at .St. Louis, under the hand and seal of the Most Worshipful Grand
Master, this thirtieth day of June, A. L. 5822, A. D. 1822.
"TH. DOUGLASS, D. G. M., •""" :
in the absence of the M. W. G. M. •:.".:.
"Attest: WM. REXSHAW, G. Sec'y."
July Cth — Vandalia Lodge Xo. 8. — Seven brethren present. John-
York Sawyer, W. M. of Libanus Lodge Xo. 29, visiting. Xo business
transacted.
July llth — Olive Branch Lodge Xo. 5. — Eleven brethren present.
Petitions of " Capt. George Hewitt, Mr. Henry P. Rundel, Edward
Bishop, and George W. Britton, Esq.," received and referred. Breth.
Jonathan Haskill and C. W. Hunter passed, and Samuel Slater raised.
July 13th. — "By virtue of a dispensation granted by the Grand Lodge
of Missouri, constituting a Lodge to be held in Covington, to be called the
Eden Lodge Xo. 11. said Lodge met in the town of Covington, on Satur-
day evening, the same being the 13th day of July, A. L. 5822, A. D.
1822. Present: John Smith. M. W. Master: Charles Mullikin, Senior
— 5
66 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS.
Warden : Philo Beers, Junior Warden, pro tern. ; James Turney, Secre-
tary, pro tern. ; Brother James Burnside, visitor, Senior Deacon and
Treasurer, pro tern.; Daniel S. Swearingen, Junior Deacon, pro tern,:
Isaac Hughson, Tyler, pro tern." Petition of James C. Adams received
and referred. Breth. Mullikin, Beers, and Turney were apointed a
committee to prepare by-laws.
July 15th — Union Lodge No. 10. — Ten brethren present. Geo. H. C.
Melody and W. B. Morris, Union Lodge No. 2, Indiana, visiting. Rich-
ard M. Young initiated.
July 16th — Same brethren present. — William Hickum and John C.
Collier initiated. Richard M. Young passed and raised.
July 17th — Olive Branch Lodge No. 5. — Eleven brethren present.
Levi Roberts passed.
July 17th — Union Lodge No. 10. — Ten brethren present. Jacob Hy-
berger rejected. William Hickum passed. George Hunsaker initiated.
July 18th. — Ten brethren present. By-Laws adopted. John C. Collier
and George Hunsaker passed and raised. Vote of thanks tendered Bro.
Melody.
July 27th — Eden Lodge No. 11. — Eleven brethren present. " Visiting
brethren, Wilton and Dow." By-laws adopted. Petitions of Joel
Potter, Henry Neeley, John Adams, Benjamin Smith, and Benjamin
Leving, received and referred.
July 28th. — Nine brethren present. Petition of James Temple re-
ceived and referred.
August 3d — Vandalia, No. 8. — Six brethren only being present, the
JLodge was not opened.
August 8th — Oiive Branch, No. 5. — Ten brethren present. Petitions
of E. J. West, Thomas Cummings, and George Hackett received and
referred. George Hewitt, P. Rundel, Edward Bishop, and George W.
Britton initiated " separately and in the order named."
August 10th — Vandalia, No. 8. — Eleven brethren present. Thojjias
Moore rejected.
August 10th — Union, No. 10. — Ten brethren present. Charles Dunn
initiated.
August llth. — Ten brethren present. Petition of Michael Harm an
for initiation, and Joseph Duncan for affiliation, received and referred.
August 19th — Olive Branch, No. 5. — Eight brethren present. Samuel
Rhodes passed. The Lodge refused to concur in the amendment to the
Grand Lodge By-Laws, creating a Grand Lecturer, and fixing his fees,
and did concur in the amendment relieving visiting brethren from con-
tributions at each visitation. In regard to collecting subscriptions for
the Temple, this Lodge responded as follows :
HISTORY OP MASONRY IX ILLINOIS 07
" To the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Missouri :
"The undersigned, who, by a resolution of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge
adopted at the last Grand semi-annual communication, were constituted a 'com-
mittee to procure subscriptions and donations for the purpose of erecting a
Masonic Hall in the Town of St. Louis,' beg leave to report:
"That they have attended to the duty assigned them, as far as practicable, but
have not been able to obtain anything for the contemplated object.
" Which is respectfully submitted.
"HENRY H. SNOW, Master,
NELSON ALDRICH, S. Warden,
"ALTON, August l!Hh, 1822. "Olive Branch Lodge No. 5."
August 20th. — Eleven brethren present. Emanuel J. "West initiated.
August 22d. — Ten brethren present. Nothing beyond "lecturing"
done.
August 31st. — Eleven brethren present. Ossian M. Eoss passed.
August 31st — Union No. 10. — Eight brethren present. Petition of
Bro. Henry L. Webb, late of Hudson Lodge No. 13, N. Y., received and
referred.
August 31st — Eden Lodge No. 11. — Six brethren present. Joel
Protter (or Potter), rejected. Benjamin Leving and James Temple
initiated.
August 31st. — Sangamo, No. 9 :
"MINUTES OF SANGAMO LODGE NO. 9.
"AUGUST 31, A. L. 5822.
" Lodge met pursuant to notice being given, at the lodge-room in Springfield.
Brethren present: Stephen Stillman, W. M.; Gershom Jayne, 8. W. ; John
Moore, J. W.; Moses Broadwell, Treas.; James C. Stephenson, Sec'y; Oramel
Clark, S. D. ; Thomas Constant, J. D.
"Lodge opened on the first degree of Masonry in due form; no business
before this. Lodge closed, and that of a fellow craft opened ; no business being
presented, the Lodge closed, and that of a Master Mason opened. A form of
by-laws was presented, which were adopted and signed by the brethren.
" Moved and seconded that Brother John Moore furnish three small stand
tables, pedestals, rods, &c., for the use of the Lodge.
" No further business being before the Lodge, it was closed in harmony.
"STEPHEN STILLMAN, Jl". .17.
"JAMES C. STEPHEXSON, Secretary."
Matters went wrong with the Lodge at " Sangarno c. h.," and the fol-
lowing letter was forwarded with the minutes just given :
" To the Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free, and Accepted Masons of the State of Mis-
souri:
"The Sangamon Lodge, through their Secretary, most respectfully report that
on the 31st day of August, A. D. 1822, A. L. 5822, the Lodge convened agreeable
to previous notice, at Springfield, and formed their by-laws, rules, and regula-
tions for the government and conduct of the said Lodge, which are herewith
transmitted for the examination and approbation of your ancient and honorable
body.
08 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"Your brethren at Sangamon most respectfully offer an extenuation of their
apparent paralytic feelings for the advancement of Masonry, the following
excuses, viz.:
"1st. Springfield being in its infancy, there was no convenient and safe place
for them to convene.
"2d. Our Worshipful Master, S. Stillman, undertook to erect a building that
would temporarily answer our purposes, but the wet season kept the Sanganio
river high until a late period, which embarrassed his proceeding so as to enable
them to commence work until the sickly season came on, since which the
necessary absence of some, and sickness of others, has rendered it out of our
power, with one exception, to convene the requisite number to transact business.
"Your brethren at Sangamon feel desirous to obtain a charter, and humbly
ask your honorable body to look on their past neglect as not wholly faults wil-
fully resting in them, but with so many grains of allowance as to authorize your
feelings to grant us a charter, which we deem essential in this place for the
advancement of Freemasonry and the good of mankind; and in case your
honorable body cannot grant us a charter, we respectfully ask a renewal of our
dispensation.
"By order of the W. M., Wardens, and brethren.
"JAMES C. STEPHEXSON, Secretary."
The by-laws of this Lodge we insert in full :
"BYE-LAWS OF SANGAMO LODGE NO. 9.
"Section 1st. Be it ordained, that the stated meetings of this Lodge shall bo
on the Saturday preceding the full moon in each month, at two o'clock p. jr.,
unless the moon fulls on Saturday, in which case the Lodge shall meet on that
day.
"Sec. 2d. Any person desirous of being initiated into the secrets of Masonry
in this Lodge, shall petition for that purpose at a stated meeting, and be recom-
mended by at least two Master Masons, said petition to be accompanied with
five dollars ; five dollars before being passed, and five dollars before being raised
to the sublime degree of Master Mason; upon which a committee of three shall
be appointed, being Master Masons belonging to the Lodge, neither of which
were of the recommending brethren. The committee, or any two of them, shall
proceed to inquire into the character of the petitioner, and report the same in
writing at the next stated meeting, and if the report be found favorable to the
petitioner, he shall be balloted for the same evening, and if the ballot be found
clear he may be initiated at the same meeting; but if one or more be found
against him he shall be rejected.
"Sec. 3d. Any Master Mason wishing to become a member of this Lodge
shall make known his request in wiiting to the Lodge at a stated meeting, who
shall appoint a committee to inquire into the character of the brother, who, if
found worthy, shall be admitted at the next regular meeting, by paying the
Secretary one dollar.
"Sec. 4th. If a candidate, after having petitioned, shall neglect or fail to
attend (without good cause shown), within three months, he shall forfeit the
sum accompanying his petition, and be dealt with as if never having petitioned.
"Sec. 5th. No brother shall be advanced to the second or third degree until
he has made suitable proficiency in the preceding degree or degrees, for ascer-
HISTORY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS. 69
taining which he shall be examined by the Master or presiding officer in open
Lodge, then a decision to be had by a majority of the brethren present.
"Sec. 6th. In cases of emergency, these by-laws may be dispensed with,
three-fourths of the members present agreeing thereto.
"Sec. 7th. Each member shall, for every regular meeting, pay to the Secre-
tary twenty-five cents, to defray the expenses of the Lodge, and for other
purposes.
"See. 8th. The regular Lodge night next preceding the festival of St. John
the Evangelist, shall be the election of officers for the year ensuing, provided
that in case'of failure, 'the Master shall be authorized to call a meeting for that
purpose previous to the festival ; and no member shall be permitted to vote or
hold an office who has not paid all dues, fines, and arrearages.
"Sec. 9th. The Worshipful Master, Senior and Junior Wardens, Treasurer
and Secretary, or a majority of them, shall be a standing committee of charity,
and for settling the accounts of the Treasurer and Stewards.
" Sec. 10th. The Secretary, on application, shall deliver to any member a diplo-
ma drawn up in proper form, provided said member obtains the consent of the
majority of the members ipresent at some regular meeting, provided his dues
and arrearages are paid. In all cases the member applying shall pay to the
Secretary the sum of one dollar for the use of the Lodge.
" Sec. llth. In all processions any one appointed to fill any office pro tern., shall
hold the same until the procession returns to the Lodge or place from whence
it set out.
" Sec. 12th. Any brother who shall be guilty of irregular or unmasonic con-
duct, shall be publicly reprimanded by the Master in open Lodge, or suspended
or expelled, as a majority of the brethren shall think proper. But whoever shall
dare to disturb the congregation of the brethren by intemperance or profanity,
shall, by order of the Master, be led out of the Lodge and not be permitted to
return without making satisfactory amends; for a second offense he shall be
suspended the privileges of the order.
" Sec. 13th. No monies shall be paid out of the Treasury except by order of
the Master or other presiding officer, with the consent of the brethren. The
Treasurer shall exhibit an account of all the money by him received and paid
out during the year, at the regular time of electing officers.
" Sec. 14th. All business of the Lodge, so far as can masonically be permitted,
shall be done in a Master's Lodge, and no Mason below the degree of Master Ma-
son shall be allowed to vote in any case.
"Sec. loth. When a motion is made for altering or amending these by-laws,
it shall be presented in writing, stating the alterations or amendments, which
being read and seconded, shall lie over until the next regular meeting for the
consideration of the Lodge, when the same may be debated and a decisive vote
taken thereon.
Sec. IGth. "Any brother failing to attend at the regular meeting, shall forfeit
and pay unto the Treasurer the sum of seventy-five cents in addition to his
regular evening dues, unless a reasonable excuse be tendered to the satisfaction
of a majority of the brethren present."
* September 1st — Eden No. 11. — Eight brethren present. Petitions of
Robert G. Adams and William S. Adams received and referred.
70 HISTOKY OP MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
September 7th. — Five brethren present. John Adams and Benjamin
Smith initiated.
September 12th — Olive Branch No. 5. — Sixteen brethren present.
Nathaniel Buckmaster visiting. Nelson Aldrich was elected W. M.,
Charles Gear, S. W.; Benjamin Spencer, J. W.; II. H. Gear, Treasurer;
and Aug. Langworthy, Secretary. Breth. Shaw and Slater were ap-
pointed Deacons. A communication from Libanus Lodge No. 29, was
received and referred to the Secretary for answer. The minutes are
silent as to what this communication was, but as it was at this time a
move was being made regarding the formation of a Grand Lodge, it is
supposed that it related to that matter.
September 13th. — Eight brethren present. Petitions of Thomas Cum-
mings and George Hacket received and referred. George Hewitt and
Emanuel J. West "severally" passed, and George Hewitt raised.
September 14th — Union Lodge No. 10. — Eight brethren present. "Vis-
iting brother, Honorable Thomas C. Browne, of Lawrence Lodge No. 27,
Ills."* Petitions of Henry L. Webb and Nat. W. Chamberlane received
and referred. Bills for furniture to the amount of $28 allowed. and or-
dered paid, "when the state of the treasury would justify it." Michael
Jlarman initiated, and Charles Dunn passed and raised.
September 15th. — The W. M. was appointed representative to the
Grand Lodge, and a petition for a charter drawn up as follows :
" To the Most Worshipful the Grand Lodge of Missouri:
"We, your petitioners, beg leave to present that we are Free and Accepted
Masons; that we are at present members of Union Lodge No. 10, in the town of
Jonesborough,and State of Illinois, working under letters of dispensation granted
by the Most Worshipful N. B. Tucker, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of
Missouri. That for many good motives of diffusing and promoting the genuine
principles of Masonry, we pray that your Most Worshipful Body grant us a charter
of constitution, securing to us the rights and privileges of a regularly constituted
Lodge, and that a person be appointed to install our officers; and if our prayer
for a charter be granted, we promise strictly to conform to all the constitutional
laws and regulations of the Grand Lodge, and the constitutions of Masonry ; and
we, your petitioners, as in duty bound, will ever pray, &c.
" B. W. BROOKS,
JAMES 8. SMITH,
GEORGE HUNSAKER,
H. B. JONES,
RICH'D J. HAMILTON,
ABNEB FIELD,
RICHARD M. YOUNG,
WM. M. ALEXANDER."
WM
Accompanying this petition was the following:
Lawrence Lodge No. 34, at Shawneetown.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS. 71
"7'u the Most Worshipful the Grand Lodge of Missouri:
'• Your memorialists, the Worshipful Master, Wardens, and brethren of Union
Lodge No. 10, of Illinois, working under a dispensation granted by your Honor-
able Body, would respectfully represent: That, whereas, Win«tead Davie, a
young gentleman whose profession is that of a clerk, a citizen of Jonesborough,
Illinois, is very much deformed in his legs and lower extremities, from his
nativity, but otherwise duly qualified, being a man of good mind and information,
genteel manners, and possessing an unexceptionable character for liberality of
mind and feeling towards mankind generally, attention to business, and of the
most temperate habits, has presented to our Lodge a petition in due form for
initiation, which said petition has been read and disposed of in regular order,
and an order made in our Lodge, as per reference to the minutes (the same will
fully and at large appear), that his case be referred to the Grand Lodge of Mis-
souri for their instruction, soliciting a warrant of dispensation authorizing us to
initiate him into the mysteries of Freemasonry. Your memorialists would
further represent to your Most Worshipful Body that we are conscious that Mr.
Davie has no sinister views in wishing to become a member of our Institution,
as he is a man of considerable property, unembarrassed, and fully able and
capable to make an independent living by his own exertions, either in the capa-
city of clerk or schoolmaster, for both of which stations he is well qualified, and
has had considerable experience in each, with profit to himself and satisfaction
to his employers; and, therefore, believe him to be actuated by the purest
motives of good will and a high opinion entertained for the Fraternity, and hope
that your Most Worshipful Body will attend to our petition in his behalf made,
and grant said dispensation thereupon, and your memorialists, as in duty bound,
will ever pray, ic.
"RICH'D J. HAMILTON, HI M.,
" In behalf of Union Lodge No. 10, at their special request.
" JOXESBOROUGH, ILLINOIS, Sept. 21 st, 1822, A. L. 5822.
" P. S. — Enclosed you will find the petition of Mr. W. Davie to Union Lodge No.
10, accompanied with the necessary recommendation, and the report of the
Committee of Character.
•' B. W. BROOKS, Sec'y."
The Committee on Lodges Under Dispensation reported as follows:
" To the Grnnil Lodye of the State of Missouri :
"The Standing Committee for the examination of the work and proceedings
of subordinate Lodges working under this jurisdiction, and to whom was referred
the bye-laws and proceedings of Union Lodge No. 10, at Jonesborough, beg leave
to report that they have examined the same and found them conformable with
the constitution and bye-laws of the Grand Lodge. Your committee overlook
some imperfections in the bye [laws] and work of said Lodge, from the conviction
that, they are inadvertencies that will be readily corrected on the suggestion of
the Grand Lecturer, who will shortly visit said Lodge. Your committee, there-
fore, recommend the following resolutions :
"Resolved, That the Grand Lodge approve of the bye-laws and proceedings of
Union Lodge No. 10.
••/i';?«.'rt'?. That a charter i<*ue to Union Lodge No. 10, at Jonesborough.
"A. GAMBLE,
G. H. C. MELODY."
7-2 HISTORY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS.
September 24th — Vandalia Lodge Xo. 8. — Nine brethren present. "A
communication from Libanus Lodge No. 29, of Edwardsville, was received
and read, on the subject of forming a Grand Lodge at Vandalia, proposing
a meeting of delegates from the different Lodges in this State, in this
place, during the sitting of the next General Assembly. On motion of
Bro. Brown, it was ordered, that the Secretary of this Lodge reply to the
communication from Libanus Lodge No. 29, informing them that their
proposition would be met by this Lodge so soon as it received its charter."
Bro. John Warnock was requested to prepare an oration for the conse-
cration of the Lodge. The W. M. (Bro. James M. Duncan) was appointed
delegate to the Grand Lodge.
September 28th. — Nine brethren present. Charles Slade, F. C., of
Libanus Lodge No. 29, visiting. The members contributed $22 towards
paying the expenses of the delegate to Grand Lodge, and "thirteen
dollars in specie" was appropriated as charter fee. Committee appointed
to procure furniture, and the Lodge closed.
September 28th — Eden Lodge No. 11. — Eight brethren present.
Robert G. Adams and William S. Adams initiated.
Of Albion Lodge we have nothing definite, beyond the information
already obtained, except the following:
" To the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Indiana :
"A dispensation from the Most Worshipful John Sheets, Esq., Grand Master-
was granted on the 12th March, 1822, to a number of petitioners residing in
Albion, Illinois, authorizing them to open and hold a Lodge of Free and Accepted
Ancient York Masons at Albion, to be known and designated by the name of
Albion Lodge, and naming Bro. James O. Wattles, Master; John B. Johnson,
Senior, and Arnold B. Dake, Junior Wardens, which being enclosed to me, with
directions to organize the Lodge, I proceeded on the 13th of April to install the
officers named in the dispensation, with the other subordinate officers which had
been chosen for that purpose. The good effect produced by the solemnities of
a public installation were so visible in the vicinity of Carlisle Lodge, that the
brethren of Albion were very desirous to have their's in public. As it was only
a dispensation, I had some doubts as to propriety of the measure, but upon
consulting with the brethren of this place, we concluded there would be no im-
propriety in it. Mr. Twigg, the brother appointed by the Albion Lodge to attend
the Grand Lodge with the dispensation and a copy of the proceedings of the
Lodge, will be able to give any information that may be thought necessary as to
the installation. Respectfully-,
" JAMES T. MOFFATT.
"NOTE. — As these are the only returns I have ever made, you will please to
excuse informality, and should they not be sufficiently explicit, you will please
gi ve me notice of the same.
" YINCEXNES, Sept. 30, 1822. •
"DEAR SIB:— The bearer of this, Mr. Twigg, is a member of the Albion Lodge,
has a copy of proceedings, and wishes to get their dispensation renewed. Any-
thing you can do for him will be reciprocated by your friend,
"J. T. MOFKATT."
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 73
October 3d — Olive Branch Lodge No. 5. — Twelve brethren present.
Breth. C. W. Hunter and Emauuel J. West raised.
October 12th. — Five brethren present. No business transacted.
October 14th. — Nine brethren present. No business, beyond allowing
sundry accounts, transacted.
October 19th. — Nine brethren present. Three pages of quarto record
are used in detailing the discussion and motions, pro and con, on a bill
of Bro. Hibbard, amounting in the whole, to ^12.25. A contract for rent
of Lodge-room for one year, at " twelve dollars in specie per annum, or
thirty dollars in State paper," was authorized to be made.
October 25th. — Bro. Gouley, Grand Secretary of Missouri, has kindly
forwarded to us, together with sundry other papers, the original charter
of Sangamon Lodge No. 9, issued by the Grand Lodge of Missouri. This
charter is of the same form now used, except that the names of all the
charter members are not inserted. It was granted to Stephen Stillman,
Gershom Jayne, and John Moore, "and several others" (of these three,
Bro. Stillmau was Master; Gershom Jayne, Senior Warden; and John
Moore, Junior Warden), and was granted October twenty-fifth, A. D.
1822, and was (or rather is) signed by N. B. Tucker, Grand Master;
Thompson Douglass, Deputy Grand Master; and attested by Wm. Ren-
shaw, Grand Secretary.
November 5th — Olive Branch No. 5. — Fourteen brethren present.
George Hacket initiated.
November 14th. — Nine brethren present. " W. N. Aldrich, Master, pre-
sented a circular letter from the Vandalia Lodge requesting the concur-
rence of this Lodge to certain resolutions of Vandalia Lodge, soliciting
this Lodge to send delegates, to meet delegates from the several Lodges
in this State, at Vandalia, on the second Monday of December next, for
the purpose of forming a Grand Lodge in this State.
"Resolved, that the same be concurred in, and that a delegation be accordingly
appointed for that purpose.
"Which was agreed to. On motion of Bro. H. H. Gear, Chas. Gear, S. W.;
Benj. Spencer, J. W.; James W. Whitney, E. J. West, C. W. Hunter, Aug.
Langworthy, and Erastus Brown were appointed as delegates according-
ly." Petitions of Cyrus Hibbard, Culver Woodburn, and John Twichell,
were received and referred. H. P. Rundel and Edward Bishop passed. A
matter of difficulty between two brethren was referred to a committee,
consisting of Breth. Langworthy, Spencer, and Charles Gear, to be ad-
justed "without the intervention of the Lodge."
December 4th. — Thirteen brethren present. No business transacted.
On Monday, the 9th day of December, A. D. 1822, a number of dele-
gates assembled at Vandalia, and proceeded to organize a convention.
The following letter will explain how the proceedings of this conven-
74 HISTORY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS.
tion, and constitution adopted thereat, come into possession of the Grand
Secretary :
" PLEASANT HILL, Pike Co., June 1, 1859.
"DEAR BROTHER :— I wrote some days since to you a few lines, that I had made a
discovery among some old papers, of a copy of a Grand Lodge Constitution,
also a copy of the proceedings of a Masonic Convention, dated December 9th,
1822, A. L. 5822.
"These papers were copied by me at the time the convention met in Vandalia,
from the originals, as the doings of that convention, and I have no doubt they
are accurate and correct.
" Knowing that you are engaged in collecting materials for a history of the-
Grand Lodge of Illinois, I have considered it of some importance to copy them
and transmit such copy to you.
" I showed these old papers to Bro. Noyes, our Worshipful of Pittsfield Lodge
55 [56], who thinks it would be well to make a fair copy and deposit the same in
Pittsfield Lodge, for the inspection and examination of the brethren * *
" Very truly and fraternally yours, <fec.,
"J. W. WHITNEY.
" Bno. H. G. REYNOLDS,
Grand Secretary."
" MASONIC CONVENTION, DECEMBER 9rH, 1822._
" At a meeting of the brethren consisting of the delegates of the dif-
ferent Lodges in the State of Illinois, on Monday, December 9th, A. L.
5822, Bro. Thomas C. Brown was 'appointed Chairman, and Bro. "Wm.
H. Brown, Secretary.
"The following brethren produced their certificates and were recog-
nized as delegates, viz.:
" From Libanus Lodge No. 29. — Richard J. McKinney, Dennis Rockwell, John
Y. Sawyer, Nathaniel Buckmaster, William H. Hopkins, and David Pricket.
" From Western Star Lodge No. 107. — Thomas Reynolds and Shadrach Bond.
" Frj>m Olive Branch Lodge No. 5. — James W. Whitney, Charles Gear, and
Charles W. Hunter.
"From Albion Lodge. — Benjamin J. Mills and Gilbert T. Pell.
" From Eden Lodge No. 11. — James Turney.
•^" From Union Lodge No. 11 [10].— Abner Field and Charles Dunn.
" From Vandalia Lodge No. 8.— William H. Brown. Jam><^f. Duncan, ^ohn S.
Duncan, Russell Botsford, ^E. C^Bcrry. John WarnockT
"From Lawrence Lodge No. 3k. — Thomas C. Brown and James Hall. '
" On motion,
"Resolved, That a committee be appointed to form a constitution for a Grand
Lodge, in the State of Illinois, and that that committee report to-morrow at
4 o'clock.
" Bros. T. Reynolds, C. W. Hunter, G. T. Pell, James Turney, Abner
Field, Wm. H. Brown, James Hall, and John Y. Sawyer were appointed
that committee.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 75
" On motion, Resolved, That the Grand Lodge be located at Vandalia.
" The convention then adjourned until to-morrow, at 4 o'clock P. M.
" December 10th, A. L. 5822.
"' The convention again assembled. Bro. Sawyer, from the committee
appointed to draft a Constitution for a Grand Lodge, reported the fol-
lowing Constitution, which was read section by section and adopted :
"CONSTITUTION OF THE GRAND LODGE OF ILLINOIS,
" OF ANCIENT, FREE, AND ACCEPTED MASONS.
"Be it ordained that the Grand Lodge shall consist of a Grand Master, a Deputy
Grand Master, Grand Senior and Grand Junior Wardens, a Grand Chaplain, a
Grand Treasurer, a Grand Secretary, and Deputy Grand Secretary, two Grand
Deacons, a Grand Marshal, a Grand Tyler, two Grand Stewards, a Grand Sword
Bearer, a Grand Pursuivant, the Masters and Wardens for the time being of the
several Lodges under the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge, all Past Grand offi-
cers of this [Grand] Lodge, and all Past Masters of regular Lodges, under the
jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge, who continue members of any regular Lodge,
are likewise considered members of and admitted to vote in this Grand Lodge,
also, those members who are present at, and signed the instrument drawn up
and agreed upon at the convention for the formation of this Grand Lodge>
whilst they continue members of, and pay 'dues to, any regular Lodge in this
State.
"Sec. 2nd. The Grand Lodge so organized shall be styled and known by the
name of THE GRAND LODGE OF ILLINOIS, OF ANCIENT, FREE, AND ACCEPTED MASONS.
"Sec. 3d. The Grand Lodge shall hold annual communications, and the
Grand Master, or his Deputy incase of his absence, may on '.very urgent occasions
call special meetings.
" Sec. 4th. When any officer of a subordinate Lodge can not attend the Grand
Lodge, he may depute any brother of equal or superior rank to himself, to act
for him in the Grand Lodge, and such deputation shall be under the hand and
seal of the brother deputing. When the Master and Wardens of any subordi-
nate Lodge depute the same brother to represent them, he must have attained
at least the rank of a Past Master.
"Sec. 5th. The grand officers may hold offices in subordinate Lodges, and
this shall not deprive them of any privilege they might claim in the Grand
Lodge as Past Grand officers.
"Sec. 6th. The Grand Master, Grand Senior and Junior Wardens, Grand
Treasurer and Grand Secretary shall be annually elected by ballot. The Grand
Master and Grand Secretary shall appoint their deputies, respectively, and until
the Grand Lodge shall, by its by-laws otherwise provide, the Grand Master
shall appoint all other officers.
"Sec. 7th. In all questions which shall come before the Grand Lodge for its
decision, every subordinate Lodge shall be entitled to three votes, which shall
not be separated; but the brethren representing such Lodge, shall agree among
themselves on which side the vote shall be given, and every Present or Past
Grand Officer, and all Past Masters being members of this Grand Lodge shall
be entitled to one vote individually, and the Grand Master and [or] his Deputy*
when presiding, shall, whenever necessary, give the casting vote.
76 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"Sec. 8th. The Giand Lodge shall have power to constitute new Lodges l>y
letters patent, under their seal ; to establish an uniform mode of working through-
out the State, strictly adhering to the ancient landmarks, usages and customs of
Masonry, and to require from the several Lodges under their jurisdiction, such
annual dues as they shall deem necessary, to be appropriated for the benefit of
the Craft; to hear and determine all appeals from subordinate Lodges, and to
decide all disputes between different Lodges under this jurisdiction ; to demand
such fees as may be deemed just and reasonable upon granting charters consti-
tuting new Lodges; to make such by-laws as may be necessary for their good
government and not inconsistent with this Constitution; and finally to do all
things heretofore accustomed to be done by other Grand Lodges which are
within the ancient landmarks and usages of the Craft.
"See. 9th. That in addition to the officers enumerated in the first clause of
this Constitution, there may be annually appointed one or more Grand Lectur-
ers, whose duty it shall be at least once in every year to visit all the subordinate
Lodges under the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge lor the purpose of establish-
ing an uniform mode of working, and of correcting any errors which may have
obtained among them.
"Sec. 10th. No alteration shall take place in this Constitution except in the
following manner: every amendment shall be proposed in writing at a regular
communication of the Grand Lodge, a fair copy of which shall be sent by the
Grand Secretary to each of the subordinate Lodges, who shall pass or reject the
same; and certify their proceedings to the regular communication; when if
it appears that two-thirds of the subordinate Lodges have agreed to pass the
same, it shall become a part of this Constitution.
" Formed and signed upon this 9th [10th] day of December, A. L. 5822.
Signed by Richard T. McKinney, Dennis Rockwell, John Y. Sawyer,
Nathaniel Buckmaster, William H. Hopkins, and David Pricket, from Libanus
Lodge No. 29; Thomas Reynolds and Shadrach Bond, from Western Star Lodge
No. 107; James W. Whitney, Charles Gear, and Charles W. Hunter, from Olive
Branch Lodge No. 5; Benjamin J. Mills and Gilbert T. Pell, from Albion Lodge;
James Turney, from Eden Lodge No. 11; Abner Field and Charles Dunn, from
Union Lodge No. 11 [10]; William H. Brown, James M. Duncan, John S.Duncan,
Russell Botsford, E. C. Berry, and John Warnock, from Vandalia Lodge No. 8;
Thomas Brown and James Hall, from Lawrence Lodge No. 34.
"On motion of Bro. Dunn,
"Resolved, That the delegates from each Lodge take a copy of the constitution
and transmit the same to their respective Lodges.
"Adjourned until to-morrow at 4 o'clock P. M.
" WEDNESDAY, December llth, A. L. 5822.
" The convention met pursuant to adjournment.
" On motion of Bro. Hall, the following resolution was adopted :
" Resolved, That we proceed forthwith to the nominations of persons to fill the
offices of Grand Master, Grand Wardens, Grand Secretary, and Grand Treasurer,
which nominations shall be presented to the several Lodges, with the constitu-
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 77
tion recommended for their adoption ; and if a majority of the Lodges approve
of said nominations, the persons so nominated shall be considered as duly
elected.
"Resolved, That it shall be the duty of the several Lodges, immediately upon
the ratification or disapproval by them of the proceedings of this convention, to
transmit notice of the same to the Grand Master elect, and if it appear that a
majority of the Lodges concur in the proceedings of the convention, then the
Grand Lodge shall be considered as duly organized, and the Grand Master shall
order the first meeting of the same at such time as he shall think proper.
"Whereupon, the convention proceeded to ballot for officers, when,
upon counting the ballots, it appeared that Shadrach Bond was elected
Grand Master: John Y. Sawyer, Grand Senior Warden; Wm. M. Alex-
ander, Grand Junior Warden; Richard T. McKinney, Grand Secretary;
James 0. Wattles, Grand Treasurer.
"' On motion of Bro. Hall,
"Resolved, That a copy*t>f the minutes of the convention be made out by
the Secretary, and countersigned by the Chairman, and that a copy of the cort-
stitution now formed be deposited in Vandalia Lodge until the Grand Lodge is
organized.
"The convenion then adjourned sine die..
(Signed) " THOMAS C. BROWN, Chairman.
"Wji. H. BROWN, Secretary."
December 12th — Olive Branch, No. 5. — Ten brethren present. John
Twitchell affiliated. Culver Woodburn initiated, Jonathan Haskell
raised, and petition of Daniel McFain received and referred.
December 3d. — Six brethren present. Cyrus Hibbard initiated.
Minutes had been partially made of meetings of No. 5 on the 26th and
27th of December, but nothing seems to have been done. The meeting
of the 26th was opened on the third degree, and there the record closes.
At the meeting of the 27tb, the Lodge does not appear to have been,
opened.
CHAPTER VIII.
January 9th, 1823 — Olive Branch No. 5. — Fifteen brethren present.
Samuel W. Rhodes and Edward Bishop raised. Cyrus Hibbard passed.
January 10th. — Ten brethren present. Resolution introduced by Bro.
Whitney to prohibit smoking in the Lodge; laid over to regular meeting
for consideration. Twenty dollars appropriated to " procure benches."
February llth. — Nine brethren present. Lodge had met for instruc-
tion, and, after lecturing on the third degree, closed.
February 13th. — Twenty-three brethren present. Horatio Newhall
and Henry P. Rundle raised.
February 14th. — Fourteen brethren present. Cyrus Hibbard raised.
Bro. Whitney's resolution to prohibit "smoking in the Lodge" was
negatived.
February 18th. — Ten brethren present. George Hackett passed.
February 20th. — Thirteen brethren present. Petition of "Samuel
Gates of Green county," received and referred. George^Hackett raised.
February — .—Fourteen brethren present.
March 10th. — Ten brethren present.
March 12th. — Ten brethren present.
No business of importance transacted at these meetings. For the
months of April and May, 1823, we have no information whatever, and
can gain none. The following is all we have for June.
" Pursueant to a charter granted by the Grand Lodge of Missouri, and by
authority of the Deputy Grand Master (the Grand Master being absent) to Georgo
H. C. Melody, to consecrate, dedicate, and enstall Sangamon Lodge No. 9, and
in pursuance of said authority, on the 24th day of June, A. L. 5823, A. D. 1823, the
f)rnnd Lodge wns opened at Springfield, Sangamon county, Ills. Present:
George H. C. Melody, Dep. G. M., p. t.; Asa S. Shaw, S. Warden, p. t.; James
Adams, G. Sec'y, p. t., and Grand Chaplain, p. t. Whereupon, Lodge JS'o. 9
was consecrated and dedicated to the Holy St. Johns, and the following officers
enstalled, t-o-wit : Bro. Stephen Stillman being absent, Bro. John More, being a
HISTORY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS. 79
Past Master, and one. of the officers named in the charter, was enstalled Master,
proxy; Bro. Gershom Jayne, Senior Warden; Bro. John Moore, Junior Warden,
being the same brother who was enstalled Master, proxy.
"G. H. C. MELODY.
" Attested : J. ADAMS, G. Sec\u, p. t."
For the months of July, August, and September, we are unable to pre-
sent any information as to the doings of the Lodges. From a return to
the Grand Lodge of Missouri, we ascertain that the officers of Olive
Branch Lodge No. 5, Upper Alton, for 1823, were as follows : Nelson Al-
-drich, W. M.; Emanuel J~ West, S. W.; Southard Shaw, J. W.; Henry P.
Rundle, Treasurer; Alexander Hart, Secretary; Benjamin Spencer, S.
D.; Benjamin Harwood, J. D.; Culver Woodburn, Steward; William
Heath, Tyler; and that the members were : Erastus Brown, Chad Brown,
Edward Bishop, Geo. W. Britton, Joel Finch, Hezekiah H. Gear, Charles
Gear, Charles W. Hunter, Jonathan Haskill, George Hewett, George
Hackett, Aug. Langworthy, Daniel Monross, Samuel W. Rhodes, Henry
H. Snow. Samuel Slater, John Twichell, James W. Whitney, Horatio New-
hall, Samuel P. Hibbard, Jonathan B. Fay, Cyrus Hibbard. We have
also the original return of Vandalia Lodge No. 8, which is given here
entire :
"RETURN OF VANDALIA LODGE No. 8 TO THE GRAND LODGE,
OCT. 6, 1S23.
"Xamcs of Members.— William H. Brown, Master; Senior Warden vacant ; Junior
Warden suspended ; John C. Kellogg, Senior Deacon ; Robert H. Peebles, Junior
Deacon; Benjamin Mills, Secretary; Frederick Hollman, Treasurer; Joseph
Enos, Tyler ; Robert Latty, Nathaniel Sanburn, Robert K. McLaughlin, William
McFatridge, Master Masons.
"Members admitted since last Communication. — Robert K,
passed, and raised; Horatio New hall, initiated and passed; Robert H. Peebles,
initiated, passed, and raised; Wm. McFatridge, initiated, passed, and raised;
Cyrus Birge, initiated ; Wm. Johnson, initiated.
"Demitted. — John Warnock, John S. Duncan, Moses K. Botsford, Russel Bots-
ford. • *'
"Suspended.— William L. D. Ewing and Elijah C. Berry.
"Struck from the list of members for neglect vf payiny Lodge dues. — James Hull.
"Members of Vandalia Lodge icho have removed, and are out the power of t/ii*
Lodge. — Robert Beard, Rowland R. Holmes, Waters Baugh.
" WM. H. BROWN, M."
The officers of Union Lodge No. 10 were as follows: B. W. BROOKS,
W. M.; JAMES S. SMITH, S. W.; JOHN HUNSAKER, J. W.; JESSE ECHOLS,
Sec'y; GEORGE HDNSAKEU, Treasurer; Jacob HYBERGER, S. D.; AUGUSTUS
RICHBURN, J. D.; JOHN BOLTZELL, Tyler.
In order to show how trials were conducted in " those days," we give
the following document verbatim, excepting the name of the party con-
•cerned ;
80 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"ALTON, November 13th, A. L. 5823. >
OLIVE BRANCH LODGE No. 5. j
" Charges and specifications against Bro. was read, viz : (f'liarge, unma-
sonic conduct. Specification 1st. — Having absconded with his family secretly
while indebted to a number of his fellow citizens, to whom he was under promises
to pay them at a certain time, while he was privately preparing to depart, in
violation of his engagements. Specification 2d. — Having violated all faith which
ought to be held sacred as a man, and more particularly as a Mason, by swindling,
under pretence of borrowing or buying a horse, saddle, and bridle, to'make his
escape with. Specification 3d. — In purchasing a large amount of property from a
number of citizens with an intent to defraud them, as has been fully developed by
his subsequent conduct. Specification kth. — Having left the Lodge without paying
his dues, and having defrauded many brethren of what he was indebted to them );
and separately carried in the affirmative; when, on motion of Bro. Alex. Hart,
seconded by Bro. Chas. W. Hunter, it was resolved unanimously that Bro.
be expelled of the privileges of Masonry.
"A true copy of the record. ALEXANDER HART, Stc.
" T. DOUGLAS, Sec. of the <?. L. of Missouri."
It will be seen that the charges and specifications were read, and the
brother was expelled immediately after, upon motion.
The return of Eden Lodge No. 11 reported JOHN SMITH as W. M.;
CHARLES MULLIKEN, S. W.; and THOMAS G. GARI.KY, J. "W. It also re-
ports that WHITE, WM. G. BROWN, JOEL POTTKR, and T. MOORE were
initiated. HARVICK, — — HOLDEN passed, and — — HOLDEN, —
HARVICK, LEVERING, and TEMPLE raised.
Our data for the year 1824 from which to proceed is very scant, until
we shall come to the month of December.
In April, the Grand Lodge of Illinois having become a fixed fact, the
constitution adopted in December, 1822, having been ratified, Vandalia
Lodge took the initiative, and addressed the following letter to the
Grand Lodge of Missouri:
" VANBALIA, April 2, 1824.
"M. W. Master of the Grand Lodge of Missouri :
" By a resolution of Vandalia Lodge No. 8, I am instructed to inform you that
in consequence of the formation of a Grand Lodge in this State, this Lodge is
desirous of withdrawing from your jurisdiction, as it has attached itself to the
Grand Lodge of Illinois. With sentiments of respect,
"I am M. W. brother, yours, <tc.,
"WM. H. BROWN,
"Sec'y. of V. L. No. 5."
'•'Eden Lodge No. 11, reported to the Grand Lodge of Missouri, the fol-
lowing work done during the year 1824 : Hollingread, Wilton,
and Hanan initiated. Hollingread, Moore, Wilton,
and Brown passed. Hollingread, Moore, and Adams
raised, and Charles Slade admitted.
HISTORY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS. 81
The officers and members of Union Lodge, for 1824, were as follows :
James S. Smith, W. M.; John Hunsaker, S. W.; John Whitaker, J. W.;
B. "VV. Brooks, Secretary; George Hunsaker, Treasurer; John Boltzell,
S. D.; A. Eichburn, J. D.; John C. Collier, Steward and Tyler; Eichard
M. Young, James Finney, Abner Field, Henry S. "Webb, David II. Moore,
Edmund Vancil, Jesse Echols, M. M., Henry Lyerly, and Allen Penrod,
Entered Apprentices. The following communication from Olive Branch
Lodge we present entire :
" MASONIC HALL, OLIVE BRANCH LODGE No. 5, "»
ALTON, December llth, 1824. /
" To the Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Missouri :
" BROTHER: — Conformably to a resolution of this Lodge it has become my duty
to present you with a description of , late a member, and by this Lodge ex-
pelled on the 13th November, A. L. 5823. Said was born in Connecticut, aged
about 45 years, near six feet high, light complexion and hair, blue eyes, and by
profession a farmer and drover. He was made a Master Mason in the Morning
Starr Lodge No. 47, in the town of Oxford, Connecticut. It is reported he is now
living at Cincinnati, Ohio. I have the the honor to be with great respect,
"Yours, fraternally,
"CHAS. W. HUNTER,
"Secretary."
The letter of Union Lodge No. 10, asking leave to withdraw, is also
presented :
" JONESBOROUGH, ILL., 4th Nov. 1824.
" To the Most Worshipful, the Grand Lodge of Missouri:
" Whereas, a Grand Lodge has been recently established in the State of Illinois,
and our Lodge, formerly 'Union Lodge No. 10,' having attached itself to it
under the title of 'Union Lodge No. 8,' by said Grand Lodge.
" Wherefore, we the members of Union Lodge are desirous of withdrawing our-
selves from the jurisdiction of your Grand Lodge, if agreeably to your will and
pleasure, and request that the Grand Secretary would have the goodness to
transmit us by mail, the amount of the balance of our fees, dues, &c., remaining
due and unpaid to your Grand Lodge, and the money shall be remitted as soon
as possible.
"Yours very affectionately and fraternally,
" B. W. BROOKS, Secretary,
"Union Lodge No. 8."
On the sixth day of December, A. D. 1824, the Grand Lodge of Illinois
assembled for the first tipie of which, there exists any record. The Grand
Lodge did meet in December 1823, when it was formally organized, and
the officers installed by E. W. Bro. George H. C. Melody, D. G. Master
Grand Lodge of Missouri. No record of this meeting can be found.
We are, therefore, under the necessity of presenting what we have :
" At the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of the State of
Illinois, held at Vandalia, on Monday, the 6th day of December, A. L.
5824:
—6
82 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
" Present : James Hall, D. G. M. and G. M. pro tern.; George H. C. Melody, D.
G. M. pro tern.; John Y. Sawyer, G. S. W.; William M. Alexander, J. G. W.; William
H. Brown, D. G. Secretary ; James O. Wattles, G. Treasurer ; James jVLjHincar^,
G. S. D.; Richard J. Hamilton, G. J. D.; Emanuel J. West.^ST TylerTpro iem.
"DELEGATES. — Albion Lodge, Jesse B. Brown and Henry J. Mitls; Union Lodge,
James S. Smith, W. M., Henry S. Webb, P. M.; Vandalia Lodge, Robert H. Peebles,
W. M., Nathaniel Sanburn, J. W., Wm. H. Brown, P. M.; Lawrence Lodge, James
Hall and Thomas C. Browne ; Hiram Lodge, Richard J. Hamilton, W. M.; Western
Starr Lodge, Thomas Reynolds.
" VISITING BRETHREN.— Alexander, Philips, John M. Robinson, of Western Starr
Lodge; Nicholas Hansen and Thomas J. McGuire, of Libanus Lodge; William
Twigg, of Albion Lodge ; Daniel Hay, of Lawrence Lodge; Curtis Blakeman, of
St. Andrews Lodge, N. Y.; Aaron Knapp, of Homer Lodge, N. Y.
" On motion of Bro. Grand Senior Warden,
" Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to examine the credentials
of delegates attending this Grand Lodge.
" Whereupon, Brethren Sawyer, Wattles, and J. B. Brown were ap-
pointed that committee.
" The credentials of the delegates from Albion Lodge were read and
referred to the Committee on Credentials.
"The report from Union Lodge was read and referred to the last men-
tioned committee.
"The petition of Jacob C. Bruner was read, and on motion of Brother
Grand Treasurer, referred to a select committee consisting of Brethren
Wattles, Hamilton, and J. B. Brown.
" On motion of Bro. Grand Junior Warden,
" Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to inquire how far the subor-
dinate Lodges within this State are affected by the resolution declaring that
'the Lodges which assisted at the formation of this Grand Lodge, shall be con-
sidered as within our jurisdiction,' and what is the operation of said resolution
in regard to such Lodges.
" Brethren Alexander, Field, Hamilton, Wattles, and Dunn were ap-
pointed that committee.
" The following committees were appointed by the M. W. Grand Master
pro tern., viz.:
"To examine the accounts of the Treasurer: Breth. Webb and Ham-
ilton.
" To examine the books and papers of the Secretary: Breth. Reynolds
and J. B. Brown.
" On motion,
"Resolved, That this Grand Lodge adjourn until to-morrow afternoon at 2
o'clock.
" TUESDAY, December 7.
" The Grand Lodge met pursuant to adjournment.
" Present : The same as yesterday, with the addition of Breth. James
Watts, of Libanus Lodge; Frederick Hollman, of Vandalia Lodge ;
HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 83
James Adams, of Skaneatles Lodge, N. Y.; Stephen Stillman, of Sanga-
mo Lodge; Richard M. Young, of Union Lodge : Joseph Dnnran, nf
Hiram Lodge: and David Coons, of Olive Branch Lodge.
" The Committee on Credentials made the following report:
"'The committee to whom was referred the examination of credentials, re-
port that the credentials -of all the Lodges represented here are in form, with
"the exception of Albion Lodge, which has appointed delegates instead of their
being appointed by the officers of the Lodge as proxies, your committee, there-
fore, beg leave to introduce the following resolution :
" 'Resolved, That the delegates from Albion Lodge be allowed,to take their seats
in this Grand Lodge.'
" Which report and resolution were concurred in.
•'< Bro. Wattles, from the select committee on the petition of Jacob C.
Bruner, reported favorably to the prayer of the petitioner, and recom-
mended the adoption of the following resolution, viz.:
"Resolved, That Jacob C. Bruner, who has been expelled from Libanus Lodge,
be restored to his membership in the same, and to the privileges of Masonry;
but that nothing herein contained shall be so construed as to prevent the said
Lodge from proceeding to the trial of the charges exhibited against him.
" Which report and resolution were ordered to lie on the table.
" The Grand Senior Warden made the following report:
"'In the absence of the M. W. Grand Master, the Grand Senior Warden reports
that a charter has been granted to Albion Lodge, and a dispensation to Hart Fel-
lows and others, of Carrollton, in the county of Greene, during the vacation,
with orders to return it to this grand communication.'
"The M. W. Grand Master pro tern, appointed Breth. Mills, McGuire,
and Hamilton the standing Committee on Reports of Lodges.
"The reports of Hiram and Vandalia Lodges were read and referred
to the last mentioned committee.
"The committee appointed to examine the Secretary's books and pa-
pers, report that they have performed that duty, and find them correct,
except in one instance, where the names of the visiting brethren were
omitted to be inserted.
"On motion of Bro. Deputy Grand Secretary, the following resolution
was adopted:
"Resolved, That the Committee on-Reports from Lodges be required to exam-
ine and report whether the Lodges under the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge
have complied with the by-laws, in the payment of their dues.
" On motion,
"Resolved, That this Grand Lodge adjourn till to-morrow at 2 o'clock P. M.
" WEDNESDAY, December 8.
"The Grand Lodge met pursuant to adjournment.
" Present, as before.
84 HISTOEY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
" The Grand Treasurer begs leave to report that during the past year
he has received from Palestine Lodge five dollars towards payment for
the dispensation granted from the Grand Secretary, and no more; mak-
ing in all six dollars, which remains in his hands, subject to the disposal
of the Grand Lodge.
" The committee appointed to inquire how far the subordinate Lodges
are affected by the formation of this Grand Lodge with the Grand Lodges
they formerly or now work, made a report, which was concurred in.
" The committee to whom was referred the reports of the subordinate
Lodges, made a report, which was concurred in.
" On motion of Bro. Junior Grand Warden,
" Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to draft a memorial to the
Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, to inquire into the causes which have induced
that Grand Lodge to suspend the Western Star Lodge, at Kaskaskia.
" Breth. Alexander, Hamilton, and Sawyer were appointed that com-
mittee.
" The report from Albion Lodge was read and referred to the Commit-
tee on Reports from Lodges.
" On motion of Bro. Reynolds, the petition of Jacob C. Bruner was
taken up, read,
"And on motion of Bro. Grand Junior Warden, the following resolu-
tion was adopted :
"Resolved, That as Libanus Lodge is working under the Grand Lodge of Ten-
nessee, this Grand Lodge can take no cognizance of said petition.
" On motion of Bro. Grand Senior Warden, the following resolution
was adopted :
" Resolved, That the subordinate Lodges who assisted at the formation of this
Grand Lodge, and have neglected to surrender their charters from other Grand
Lodges, and taken charters from this Grand Lodge, be allowed a further time of
six months to perform that duty.
" Resolved, That the Lodges neglecting the requisitions of the preceding reso-
lution, be stricken from the roll of this Grand Lodge, and that these Lodges be
immediately furnished with a copy of these resolutions.
" On motion,
"Resolved, That an election for grand officers of this Grand Lodge be held this
evening at 7 o'clock, and that the officers so elected be publicly installed to-
morrow, at 2 o'clock in the afternoon.
'' A communication from E. C. Berry was received, and, on motion of
Bro. Grand Junior Warden, it was referred to a select committee consist-
ing of Breth. Alexander, Duncan, and Reynolds.
" The Committee on Reports from Lodges made a report, accompanied
by the following resolution, both of which were concurred in :
"Resolv&i, That the delegates from Albion Lodge are entitled to all the privi-
leges and rights of members of this Grand Lodge.
" The M. W. Grand Lodge then proceeded to the election of grand
officers for the ensuing year, when, upon counting the ballots, it appeared
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 85
that Bro. James Hall was elected M. W. Grand Master ; Bro. John York
Sawyer, R. "VV. Grand Senior Warden : Bro. Richard J. Hamilton, R. W.
Grand Junior Warden; Bro. James 0. Wattles, R. W. Grand Treasurer;
Bro. "William II. Brown, R. W. Grand Secretary.
"The M. W. Grand Lodge then adjourned till to-morrow afternoon at
2 o'clock.
"THURSDAY, December 9.
" The Grand Lodge met pursuant to adjournment.
"A Lodge of Past Master Masons was opened.
" Present: R. W. George II. C. Melody, G. M.; R. W. Henry L. Webb,
G. S. W.; R. W. James 0. Wattles, G. J. W.; Bro. James Watts, G. S. D.:
Bro. Robert H. Peebles, G. J. D.; Bro. James S. Smith, G. Tyler.
"And after some business done therein, the Lodge was closed, and a
Lodge of Master Masons opened.
" M. W. James Hall, G. Master elect ; R. W. John Y. Sawyer, G. S. W.;
R. W. Richard J. Hamilton, G. J. W.; R. W. James 0. Wattles, G. Treas.:
R. W. WJliiain_H. Brown, GL Secretary ; Bro. Thomas Reynolds, G. S. D.,
pro tern.; Bro. Emanuel J. West, G. J. D., pro tern.; Joseph Enos, G.
Tyler, pro tern. Breth. Watts, Dunn, and others, visiting brethren.
" The grand officers elect of the M. W. Grand Lodge of the State of
Illinois, were then installed in due form, by the R. W. George II. C. Mel-
ody, Deputy Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Missouri.
" On motion of Bro. Grand Senior Warden,
"Resolved, That the thanks of this Grand Lodge be presented to Bro. Melody
for his polite attention and fraternal kindness in attending the present Annual
Grand Communication, and for the aid he has rendered in the performance of
our duties.
"Resolved, That a committee be appointed to wait on Bro. Melody and present
to him the above resolution, and request him to receive the sum of twenty dollars,
to discharge the expenses of his visit to us, which sum the Grand Treasurer is
hereby authorized to pay over to said committee.
"Ordered, That Breth. Sawyer, Webb, and Reynolds be the committee.
" The M. W. Grand Lodge then adjourned till to-morrow at two o'clock
in the afternoon.
" FRIDAY, December 10th.
" The Grand Lodge met pursuant to adjournment.
"Present: M. W. James HaU, G. M.; R. W. John York Sawyer,
G. S. W.; R. W. Richard J. Hamilton, G. J. W.; R. W. James 0. Wattles,
G. Treas.; R. W. WUJjam H. Brown, G. Sec.; Bro. Robert H. Peebles,
G. S. D., pro. tem.-JSro. Charles Dunn, G. J. D., pro. tern.; Bro. Joseph
Enos, G. Tyler, pro. tern.; Breth. Whiteaker, Webb, H. J. Mills, Norton,
Twigg, Smith, Utter, and Adams, members and visitors.
"The M. W. Grand Master made the following appointments, viz.: Bro.
Henry H. Snow, Deputy Grand Master; Bro. Robert II. Peebles, Grand
86 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
Senior Deacon ; Bro. Emanuel J. West, Grand Junior Deacon ; John
Whiteaker, Grand Marshal ; Bro. Thomas Reynolds, Grand Sword
Bearer; Charles Dunn, Grand Pursuivant; Breth. James S. Smith and
John "Warnock, Grand Stewards; Bro. Joseph Enos, Grand Tyler.
" The Grand Secretary appointed Bro. Thomas L. Posey, Deputy Grand
Secretary of this Grand Lodge.
" On motion of Bro. Grand Treasurer,
"Resolved, That all the subordinate Lodges in this State shall receive charters
so soon as they have discharged their dues to the Grand Lodges under which
they have hitherto held, and withdrawn from the jurisdiction of such Grand
Lodges, on application to the M. \V. Grand Master, and surrendering to him
their former charters.
" On motion of Bro. Grand Senior Deacon, the following preamble and
resolution were adopted :
" WHEREAS, The Vandalia Lodge has paid to Col. William Berry the sum of
forty dollars, as a compensation for the loss of his sword, destroyed by the con-
flagration of the State House, after the meeting of this Grand Lodge in 1823,
therefore,
"Resolved, That the dues owing by said Lodge to this M. W. Grand Lodge for
the present year be remitted.
" The by-laws of Union Lodge were presented and referred to the
Committee on Reports from Lodges.
" On motion of Bro. Dunn,
"Resolved, That it be recommended by this Grand Lodge to each of the Lodges
subordinate thereto, to transact the ordi'nar3r business of the Lodge in an Entered
Apprentice's Lodge, and to receive and act upou all petitions for membership,
or any degree in Masonry, in a Master's Lodge only ; and that the Grand Secretary
transmit a copy of this resolution to each of the subordinate Lodges.
" The M. W. Grand Lodge then adjourned till to-morrow afternoon,
two o'clock.
"A Past Masters' Lodge was then opened, and Breth. Snow, Peebles,
Dunn, West, Reynolds, Whiteaker, Smith, Warnock, and Enos were duly
installed in their respective offices.
"The Past Masters' Lodge was then closed in peace and harmony.
" TUESDAY, December 14th.
" The Grand Lodge met pursuant to adjournment.*
" Present, as before.
" Bro. Guy W. Smith presented the dispensation granted in vacation
to certain brethren residing in Palestine : also a return from said Lodge,
which was received.
" On motion of Bro. Grand Treasurer, a charter was granted to Pales-
tine Lodge, and time was given them till the next Grand Communication
to pay the fees due for said charter.
* There was no meeting on Saturday, the llth. The Grand Lodge was ad-
journed to that time, met, was not opened, and adjourned to Tuesday, December
"14, at 2 o'clock P. M.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS, 87
" Bro. Reynolds, from the committee appointed upon the memorial of
E. C. Berry, made a report, which was adopted, and the Grand Secretary
ordered to forward a copy to the Grand Lodge of Missouri immediately.
'•Ordered, That the dispensation heretofore granted to the brethren residing at
Oarrollton be renewed, and continued in full until the next Annual Communica-
tion of this Grand Lodge.
" Union and Vandalia Lodges having paid to the Grand Lodge of
Missouri the dues owing to said Grand Lodge, and having surrendered
their charters to this Grand Lodge, it is ordered that charters be issued
to said Union Lodge as Union Lodge No. 7, and Vandalia Lodge as Van-
dalia Lodge No. 5.
" On motion,
"Ordered, That Breth. Peebles and Brown be a committee to confer with Mr.
Bullard on account of the rent of this room for the use of this Grand Lodge.
" The Grand Lodge was then adjourned till the first day of January
next, and a Lodge of Past Masters opened, when Bro. Guy W. Smith was
introduced and duly installed Master of Palestine Lodge, in ample form.
" The Lodge of Past Masters was then closed in peace and harmony.
"JANUARY 1st, A. L. 5825.
" The Grand Lodge met pursuant to adjournment.
" Present: M. W. James Hall, G. M.; R. W. Henry H. Snow, Deputy
G. M.; R. W. John Y. Sawyer, G. S. W.; R. W. Robert \V. Peebles,
/G. J. W., pro. tern.; R. W. James 0. Wattles, G. Treasurer; R. W. Benj.
Mills, G. Secretary, pro. tern.; Bro. Benjamin Twigg, G. S. D.; Bro.
Emanuel J. West, G. J. D.; Joseph Enos, G. Tyler.
"A report from Olive Branch Lodge was presented, read, and accepted.
" Bro. Grand Junior Deacon presented the following resolution, which
was adopted :
"Resolved, That the R. W. Deputy Grand Master of this Grand Lodge be and he
is hereby authorized and required to visit each and every Lodge under the juris-
diction of this Grand Lodge once in each year.
" On motion of Bro. Grand Junior Deacon,
"That the thanks of this M. W. Grand Lodge be presented, through the M. W.
Grand Master, to the Honorable Senate of the State of Illinois, for the polite offer
of the use of the senate chamber for the use of this Grand Lodge.
" The R. W. Grand Senior Warden presented a memorial, which, upon
his motion, was adopted as a substitute for the one presented upon the
petition of E. C. Berry, and ordered to be forwarded to the Grand Lodge
of Missouri.
" On motion of Bro. Grand Senior Deacon,
" Ordered, That the sum of four dollars be appropriated for the payment of
John Billiard, for the use of his chamber.
88
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
" On motion of the R. W. Deputy Grand Master,
" Ordered, That upon the presentation of their work, Constitution and By-laws
to the M. W. Grand Master, or his Deputy, a charter be granted in vacation to
Green Lodge as No. 11.
"On motion of Brother Grand Treasurer,
" Ordered, That the sum of seven dollars be allowed to Bro. Joseph Enos, for
his services as Tyler; and that the Grand Treasurer be, and he is hereby au-
thorized to pay over to Bro. Enos, said sum, out of any money in the Treasury
not otherwise appropriated.
" No further business appearing before the Grand Lodge, it was closed
in peace and harmony.
" WM. H. BROWN, Grand Secretary."
Immediately following the proceedings, is an abstract of the returns
of the several Lodges under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge for the
year 1824, which we here present:
" Abstract of the return of Lodges under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge, for the
year 182U.
0
73
£
73
0
73
73
73
73'
;
r •
c
£
OO
O
.3
0
cu
00
OP
"3
O.
'p.
•g
"3
C
o>
"o
c
a
£
02
W
Q
n
o
£
Olive Branch No. 4
2
3
4
9
25
Vandalia No 5
2
1
1
2
12
Union No 6 .
2
2
2
*1
17
Eden No. 7
3
3
3
•H
24
Albion No 0
2
5
22
5
5
4
17
Greene No. 11
11
"NOTE. — The Lodges at Kaskaskia, Shawneetown, and Edwardsville; the old-
est in the State, and the Sangamo Lodge at Springfield, have not yet dissolved
their connections with the Grand Lodges under whom they obtained charters,
and united with the Grand Lodge of Illinois."
In the meantime, Western Star Lodge, at Kaskaskia, was making
strenuous efforts to sever its connection with the Grand Lodge of Penn-
sylvania, by whom its charter had been arrested, and effect an affilia- -
tion with the Grand Lodge of Illinois. The following letter will explain,
in a manner, the difficulties that the Lodge at Kaskaskia was laboring
under:
" *Samuel S. Crafton — about 23 years of age, light hair, heavy made, about 5
feet 9 inches high, by occupation a farmer.
" t William G. Shade— no description given.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS. 89
" KASKASKIA, ILLINOIS, Oct. 20th, 1825.
"SiR AND BROTHER :— Your letter of 'the 22d ult. is now before me. The solici-
tude which I feel, to have the perplexing business of the late Western Star
Lodge closed with the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, prompts me to use every
endeavor to facilitate its accomplishment.
" I am satisfied that the misunderstanding has not been sought or intended.
The Western Star Lodge found itself much embarrased by circumstances which
it could not well control. The deranged state of the currency of the Country,
about the year 1823, arising from a mistaken policy of State legislation, based as
was alleged, upon the general depression of the country, paralyzed everything, the
enforcement of contracts was suspended, and nothing but a depreciated paper
system was transacted. The Lodge had previously made contracts, and pay-
ments from it became due, and in consequence of the general embarrasment,
its means of collection were limited, and what was effected, was so far depre-
ciated that it had to sacrifice considerable to meet its engagements. When
the proposition was made to the Grand Lodge to close the accounts, it was cal-
culated that it could be effected, but in that it was disappointed. Coercive mea-
sures were adopted (which, although painful under the peculiar circumstances
of the times) and put into a train of operation, which were arrested by the recall
of the charter, leaving no means for their completion. A little before that time,
the Grand Lodge of Illinois was constituted, and a general solicitude was felt to
become a branch of it, a resolution was adopted by that institution, to solicit
the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania to permit the Western Star Lodge to withdraw
with its funds and furniture, and work under the Illinois jurisdiction, but the
unfortunate destruction of the books and archives of the Illinois Grand Lodge
shortly after, by the conflagration of the capital where they were deposited, pre-
vented as, I am informed, its being communicated to the Grand Lodge of Penn-
sylvania. In reference to that proposal were based the remarks contained in
communication from W.S. L. in April 1824, and was not a proposition originating
from the Western Star Lodge.
" In my communication of the 28th August last, I suggested the expediency
of a special agency to close the business, it was the only method I could then
devise, but since that time another expedient has occurred to me. Let a
resolution be adopted by the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania to restore the war-
rant of W. S. L. until it can complete the collection of the outstanding dues from
its members, and take measures againsc the delinquents by suspension or expul-
sion according to its bye-laws; and to make its remittances and returns to the
• Grand Lodge, and upon its being made satisfactory to appear to the R. W. G. M.,
that the same has been done as far as practicable, that he grant privilege for the
W. S. Lodge to surrender its charter and retain the jewels, furniture, &c., and be
at liberty to unite with such Grand Lodge as it may deem expedient.
"It is evident from the books of the Lodge that a much larger sum is due to it
from its members than is sufficient to pay the balance due the Grand Lodge,
but no authority is now vested to collect it, and unless it be soon attended to, the
dues will be in all probability lost, some of which, I am satisfied, has already
become so. I am fully pursuaded that considerable collections can be effected
if authorized either by agency or the restoration of the charter. I wish it to be
fully understood that I feel no disposition to dictate a course for the Grand
Lodge, but my solicitude for the adjustment of the affairs in the present de-
ranged and embarrased condition, induces me to offer for the consideration of
90 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
the Grand Lodge and its officers, such projects as seem to me best calculated to
bring about the accomplishment of the desired object. The subject is an un-
fortunate and an unpleasant one, and I heartily desire its termination in the
most cordial and satisfactory manner, believing as I do that it has not been
wantonly sought or intended, but growing solely out of circumstances misunder-
stood.
'• Fraternally your.^,
" WM. C. GREEXUP."
After several other letters, none of which we have in our possession,
the following was received :
" GRAND LODGE OF PENNSYLVANIA, ADJOURNED QUARTERLY )
COMMUNICATION, PHILADELPHIA, 21st Nov., 18^5. /
"Resolved, that as soon as it shall satisfactorily appear to the R. W. Grand
Master, that the debts of Lodge Xo. 107 are collected, and remittances thereof
are made to the Grand Treasurer as far as practicable, he sha.ll be and he is
hereby authorized to grant permission to said Lodge to surrender its warrant,
retain its jewels and property, and apply for a new warrant to the R. W. Grand
Lodge of Illinois.
" Extract from the minutes.
T : "SAMUEL H. THOMAS,
: i£AL- = '• Grand Secretary:''
" In pursuance of the power vested in us by virtue of a resolution of the R. W.
Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, adopted on the 21st day of Xovember, A. D. 1825,
A. L. 5825, we do hereby authorize and empower the W. M. and brethren of
Lodge Xo. 107, to surrender the warrant thereof tc us and to apply to the R. W.
Grand Lodge of Illinois to hold a Lodge under a warrant from that Grand Lodge.
"Given under our hand and seal this 30th day
of Xovember, A. I). 182ti, A. L. 5826.
: SEAL. ; I(TH K1TTERAj
"Grand Master."
"Attest, SAMUEL H. THOMAS,
"Grand Secretary."
This was accompanied by the following letter :
" PHILAD., 16th Dec., 1820.
" KASKASKIAS— C. C. Conway, Esq.:
" W. SIR AND BRO.: — Your favour of 4th Xovember came duly to hand, and I
regret that the absence of the R. W. Grand Master from the city prevented an
earlier acknowledgement.
"I am directed to state that everything which has been done by your Lodge
since the restoration of its warrant is satisfactory to the officers of the Grand
Lodge, and they wish you every success in the connection which your Lodge
may form with the Grand Lodge of Illinois. I shall write to you again in a few
days, and in the mean time subscribe myself your obedient servant and brother,
"SAM. H. THOMAS, Grand Sec'y.
CHAPTER IX.
1826—36.
"At a special communication of the M. W. Grand Lodge of the State
of Illinois, held at the State House, in the town of Vandalia, on Monday,
the third day of January, A. L. 5826 —
" Present : M. W. James Hall, G. M.; M. W.^j-drach^Bond, P. G. M.;
R. W. Henry H. Snow, D. G. M.; R. W. Henry L. "vfcebbTG. S. W.,^ro tern.;
R. W. Henry J. Mills, G. J. W.,pro tern.; R. W. J. 0. Wattles, G. Treas.;
R. W. Win. H. Brown, G. Secretary; Bro. John Whitaker, G. Marshal;
Bro. Joseph Enos, G. Tyler. Bro. J. Ewing, of Vandalia Lodge; Breth.
A. Hart, P. M., and David E. Cuyler, of Olive Branch Lodge; Bro. Mc-
Roberts, of Vandalia Lodge; Breth. A. Field and Henry L. Webb, of
Union Lodge; Breth. S. Dewey and Ossian M. Ross, of Frontier Lodge;
Bro. George Webb, of Winchester Lodge, Ky.; Levi Roberts, of Olive
Branch Lodge; Valentine G. Bradley, of Vincennes Lodge; Israel
Seward, of Hamilton Lodge, Ohio; William Ross, of Mystic Tie Lodge,
Massachusetts: Bro. Willis Hargrave, of Lawrence Lodge, and Bro.
Nicholas Hansen.
" On motion of Bro. D. G. Master,
"Resolval, That a committee of three be appointed to examine the credentials
of representatives attending this Grand Lodge from subordinate Lodges.
"Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to examine the returns of
subordinate Lodges.
" Breth. Hay, Hart, and Whitaker were appointed a committee on the
first, and Breth. Snow, Peebles, and Wattles a committee on the second
resolution.
" The Grand Secretary made the following report :
'"The Grand Secretary reports that during the vacation of the Grand Lodge
he has received the following communications, viz.:
"'The proceedings of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky, of the District of Colum-
bia, of Indiana, Tennessee, North Carolina, and Mississippi.
" 'A communication from the Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky,
with a list of officers for the year 5825.
94 HTSTOEY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
ings in relation to resolutions from the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire and
New York, proposing the erection of a monument at Mt. Vernon, to the memory
of our illustrious Bro. G. Washington. A communication from the Grand Lodge
of Missouri, containing a report of their proceedings in the eases of Bros. Wm.
L. D. Ewing and E. C. Berry. A letter from the Grand Secretary of the Grand
Lodge of New York.
'" In the proceedings of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky your committee find
the following resolutions:
"'Resolved, That this Grand Lodge recognize the M. W. Grand Lodge of Illi-
nois, and that Bro. Grand Secretary correspond with the said M. W. Grand
Lodge, and transmit regularly an abstract of the proceedings of this Grand
Lodge.
"'Resolved. That any arrearages which may be due from any Lodge subordi-
nate to this Grand Lodge, located in the State of Illinois, be, and the same are
hereby remitted to said Lodge.
'"Your committee, while they state with regret and surprise, that this is the
only acknowledgment of the receipt by any Grand Lodge of the communications
addressed to them, and the only formal notice of recognition, can not avoid
expressing their sense of the candid and frank reception which our newly es-
tablished Grand Lodge has met from our brethren in Kentucky, and their hope
that this Grand Lodge will promptly acknowledge and reciprocate the brotherly
feeling which has been thus evinced.
" 'They also find a very fraternal letter from the Grand Secretary of the Grand
Lodge of New York, expressing the surprise of the members of that Grand
Lodge, at their not having received any communication from us of the causes
and events which led to the establishment of this Masonic institution, and re-
questing such information. This letter, in the opinion of your committee, is
entitled to immediate attention, and should be referred for reply to the suitable
officers of the Grand Lodge, either to the Grand Master or Grand Secretary.
"' From the reports of several of the Grand Lodges before us. it appears that
active exertions are in operation among the Craft, to obtain subscriptions for
the erection of a Masonic monument to the memory of Washington, and that
several of the Grand Lodges of the U. S. have adopted measures to effect this
object. Your committee in noticing this subject can not withhold the expres-
sion of their entire approbation of any measure which may evince our respect
for the virtues, and affection for the name, of the illustrious chief, whom \ve have
been proud to numberamong our brothers, and submit the further consideration
thereof to the Grand Lodge.
"'In reply to a memorial of this Grand Lodge to the Grand Lodge of Mis-
souri, soliciting a reconsideration of the cases of Wm. L. D. Ewing and Elijah
C. Berry, we have received an abstract of their proceedings, by which it appears
that Bro. Ewing has been restored to his Masonic privileges; but that in the
opinion of that Grand Lodge, the case of E. C. Berry does not merit a recon-
sideration. Your committee are aware of the delicacy of a further interference
on our part in relation to this subject; but they can not pass it over without re-
marking that they are far from feeling satisfied, either with the decision of the
Grand Lodge of Missouri, or with the reasons upon which that decision seems to
be grounded. It will be for the Grand Lodge to decide whether any, and if any,
what further steps should be taken in this affair.
" 'The rest of the communications before us, contain only the ordinary reports
and interchanges of Masonic information, none of which seem to demand any
particular notice from this committee.'
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 95
"A communication from E. C. Berry was presented and read, and
" On motion of Bro. Wattles, it was
"Ordered, That the said communication, with the accompanying documents, be
referred to a committee of three.
"Ordered, That the committee consist of Bros. Wattles, West, and T. C. Brown.
" On motion of Bro. D. G. Master,
" Resolved, That all members of this Grand Lodge shall be only entitled to one
vote as such, and one as representative from subordinate Lodges, when serving
as such.*
'•'The Grand Lodge then proceeded to ballot for officers of the Grand
Lodge, for the ensuing year,- when the following persons were declared
duly elected : James Hall, M. W. G. M; John Y. Sawyer, R. W. G. S.
W.: Benjamin Mills, R. W. G. J. W.; Wm. H. Brown, R. W. G. S.; James
0. Wattles, R. W. G. T.
" On motion of Bro. J. 0. Wattles,
" Resolved, That the installation of the officers elect, take place on to-morrow
evening.
" Ordered, That this Grand Lodge stand adjourned until to-morrow evening at
7 o'clock.
"BENJAMIN MILLS, G. S. pro tern.
" R. W. GRAND LODGE, January 5, A. L. 5826.
" The Grand Lodge opened pursuant to adjournment.
"Present: The same officers and members aslast evening, with the
addition of Bro. Richard J. Hamilton, Bro. Webb, and Wm. H. Brown,
Grand Secretary.
" The Grand Lodge was then dispensed with, and a Lodge of Past
Masters then opened, when the following Grand officers were duly in-
stalled, viz :
" Bro. James Hall, M. W. G. M.; Bro. John Y. Sawyer, R. W. G. S. W.;
Bro. Benjamin Mills, R. W. G. J. W.; James 0. Wattles, R. W. G. Treas-
urer; William H. Brown, R. W. G. Secretary, by the M. W. Shadrach
Bond, P. G. M., aided by the R. W. D. G. M., Henry H. Snow ; when the
Lodge of Past Master Masons was dispensed with, and a Lodge of Mas-
ter Masons was opened, the grand officers in their respective places.
" On motion of Bro. Wattles,
" Resolved. That a Grand Orator be appointed to deliver an address to this
Grand Lodge and the public, at the next annual communication of this Grand
Lodge.
" On motion of Bro. G. J. Warden,
" Resolved, That a committee be appointed to inquire what articles are ne-
cessary to be procured for the use of this Grand Lodge, and that they report to-
morrow evening.
" Ordered, That Breth. B. Mills, Wattles, and Hamilton be that committee.
" The R. W. G. Lodge then adjourned till to-morrow evening at 7
o'clock.
* Which resolution was a plain violation of the Constitution, which provided
that each Lodge should be entitled to three votes.
94 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS.
ings in relation to resolutions from the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire and
New York, proposing the erection of a monument at Mt. Vernon, to the memory
of our illustrious Bro. G. Washington. A communication from the Grand Lodge
of Missouri, containing a report of their proceedings in the cases of Bros. \Vm.
L. D. Ewing and E. C. Berry. A letter from the Grand Secretary of the Grand
Lodge of New York.
"' In the proceedings of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky your committee find
the following resolutions:
" ' Resolved, That this Grand Lodge recognize the M. W. Grand Lodge of Illi-
nois, and that Bro. Grand Secretary correspond with the said M. W. Grand
Lodge, and transmit regularly an abstract of the proceedings of this Grand
Lodge.
"'Resolved. That any arrearages which may be due from any Lodge subordi-
nate to this Grand Lodge, located in the State of Illinois, be, and the same are
hereby remitted to said Lodge.
'"Your committee, while they state with regret and surprise, that this is the
only acknowledgment of the receipt by any Grand Lodge of the communications
addressed to them, and the only formal notice of recognition, can not avoid
expressing their sense of the candid and frank reception which our newly es-
tablished Grand Lodge has met from our brethren in Kentucky, and their hope
that this Grand Lodge will promptly acknowledge and reciprocate the brotherly
feeling which has been thus evinced.
" ' They also find a very fraternal letter from the Grand Secretary of the Grand
Lodge of New York, expressing the surprise of the members of that Grand
Lodge, at their not having received any communication from us of the causes
and events which led to the establishment of this Masonic institution, and re-
questing such information. This letter, in the opinion of your committee, is
entitled to immediate attention, and should be referred for reply to the suitable
officers of the Grand Lodge, either to the Grand Master or Grand Secretary.
"' From the reports of several of the Grand Lodges before us, it appears that
active exertions are in operation among the Craft, to obtain subscriptions for
the erection of a Masonic monument to the memory of Washington, and that
several of the Grand Lodges of the U. S. have adopted measures to effect this
object. Your committee in noticing this subject can not withhold the expres-
sion of their entire approbation of any measure which may evince our respect
for the virtues, and affection for the name, of the illustrious chief, whom we have
been proud to number among our brothers, and submit the further consideration
thereof to the Grand Lodge.
"'In reply to a memorial of this Grand Lodge to the Grand Lodge of Mis-
souri, soliciting a reconsideration of the cases of Win. L. D. Ewing and Elijah
C. Berry, we have received an abstract of their proceedings, by which it appears
that Bro. Ewing has been restored to his Masonic privileges; but that in the
opinion of that Grand Lodge, the case of E. C. Berry does not merit a recon-
sideration. Your committee are aware of the delicacy of a further interference,
on our part in relation to this subject; but they can not pass it over without re-
marking that they are far from feeling satisfied, either with the decision of the
Grand Lodge of Missouri, or with the reasons upon which that decision seems to
be grounded. It will be for the Grand Lodge to decide whether any, and if any,
what further steps should be taken in this affair.
'•'The rest of the communications before us, contain only the ordinary reports
and interchanges of Masonic information, none of which seem to demand any
particular notice from this committee.'
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 95
"A communication from E. C. Berry was presented and read, and
" On motion of Bro. Wattles, it was
"Ordered, That the said communication, with the accompanying documents, be
referred to a committee of three.
"Ordered, That the committee consist of Bros. Wattles, West, and T. C. Brown.
" On motion of Bro. D. G. Master,
"Resolved, That all members of this Grand Lodge shall be only entitled to one
vote as such, and one as representative from subordinate Lodges, when serving
as such.*
'•'The Grand Lodge then proceeded to ballot for officers of the Grand
Lodge, for the ensuing year; when the following persons were declared
duly elected : James Hall, M. W. G. Mj John Y. Sawyer, R. W. G. S.
W.; Benjamin Mills, R. W. G. J. W.,- Wm. H. Brown, R. W. G. S.; James
0. Wattles, R. W. G. T.
" On motion of Bro. J. 0. Wattles,
"Resolved, That the installation of the officers elect, take place on to-morrow
evening.
" Ordered, That this Grand Lodge stand adjourned until to-morrow evening at
7 o'clock.
"BENJAMIN MILLS, G. S. pro tern.
" R. W. GRAND LODGE, January 5, A. L. 5826.
" The Grand Lodge opened pursuant to adjournment.
"Present: The same officers and members aslasfc evening, with the
addition of Bro. Richard J. Hamilton, Bro. Webb, and Wm. H. Brown,
Grand Secretary.
" The Grand Lodge was then dispensed with, and a Lodge of Past
Masters then opened, when the following Grand officers were duly in-
stalled, viz :
" Bro. James Hall, M. W. G. M.; Bro. John Y. Sawyer, R. W. G. S. W.;
Bro. Benjamin Mills, R. W. G. J. W.; James 0. Wattles, R. W. G. Treas-
urer; William H. Brown, R. W. G. Secretary, by the M. W. Shadrach
Bond, P. G. M., aided by the R. W. D. G. M., Henry H. Snow ; when the
Lodge of Past Master Masons was dispensed with, and a Lodge of Mas-
ter Masons was opened, the grand officers in their respective places.
" On motion of Bro. Wattles,
" Resolved. That a Grand Orator be appointed to deliver an address to this
Grand Lodge and the public, at the next annual communication of this Grand
Lodge.
" On motion of Bro. G. J. Warden,
" Resolved, That a committee be appointed to inquire what articles are ne-
cessary to be procured for the use of this Grand Lodge, and that they report to-
morrow evening.
" Ordered, That Breth. B. Mills, Wattles, and Hamilton be that committee.
" The R. W. G. Lodge then adjourned till to-morrow evening at 7
o'clock.
* Which resolution was a plain violation of the Constitution, which provided
that each Lodge should be entitled to three votes.
96 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
" R. "W. G. LODGE OP THE STATE OF ILLINOIS,)
JANUARY 6, A. L. 5826. j
" Present: M. W. James Hall, G. M.; R. W. Henry II. Snow, D. G. M.;
R. W. John Y. Sawyer, G. S. W.; R. W. Benjamin Mills, G. J. W.; R. W.
James 0. Wattles, G. T.; R. W. Wm. H. Brown, G. S.; Bro. R. H. Pee-
bles, G. S. D.; Bro. 0. M. Ross, G. J. D.,pro tern.; Bro. Joseph Enos, G.
Tyler. Visiting brethren, Jotham Jayne,* A. Philleo.
" The R. W. G. J. Warden, from the committee appointed last evening,
to ascertain what articles are necessary for the use of this Grand Lodge,
made a report which was concurred in. The G. J. W. also presented an
engraved seal, and the following note :
"'Horatio Ball begs leave to present to the members of the Grand Lodge of
the State of Illinois an engraved seal, which he forwards by J. O. Wattles, Esq.
(Signed) "'HORATIO BALL.
" ' VANDALIA, January Cth, 1826.'
"On motion of Bro. Mills,
"Resolved, That the thanks of this Grand Lodge be presented to Bro. Horatio
Ball for the seal presented this Grand Lodge, and the same be adopted as the
seal thereof.
" On motion of Bro. Wattles,
•' Resolved, That any fees due by Bro. Ball, to this Grand Lodge, if any there
be, be and the same are remitted.
" Bro. Wattles, from the committee to whom was referred the reports
of subordinate Lodges, made the following report :
" ' That the following Lodges, to-wit : Olive Branch, Union, Vandalia, Palestine,
Greene, Hiram, Illion, and Frontier, have made their annual reports,to the Grand
Lodge, which appear satisfactory to the committee, so far as a disposition to
conform to our regulations and the rules of Masonry, is manifested. But your
committee feel constrained to say that in several of the communications there
is much inaccuracy, and a failure to comply with all the regulations of the by-
laws, and on the part of the several Lodges, a total neglect to comply with their
provisions, either by making their reports or sending their dues. But your
committee, believing this neglect to be owing to a want of information on the
part of delinquent Lodges, than to willful neglect, beg leave to offer the follow-
ing resolution:
" Resolved, That Bro. Henry H. Snow be appointed an agent on the part of this
Grand Lodge, whose duty it shall be to visit all the subordinate Lodges to in-
troduce a uniform mode of working ; to examine the by-laws and proceedings
of such Lodges; to settle the accounts of each with the Grand Lodge, and to
'receive the balances due, and make report at the nest grand annual communi-
cation.
" Which report and resolution was concurred in.
" On motion of Bro. Snow,
" PcKo'ved, That this Grand Lodge disapprove of a resolution adopted in Olive
Branch Lodge No. 4. on the day of their last election, allowing visiting brethren
to vote in said election.
"Gershom Jayne, of Sangamo Lodge.
HISTORY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS. 97
" The following appointments were made by the Grand Master :
" Bro. Henry H. Snow, D. G. M.; Bro. Robert H. Peebles, G. S. D.; Bro.
Erastus Brown, G. J. D.; Bro. E. J. West, G. Marshal ; Bro. Guy "W.
Smith, G. S. B.; Bro. Charles Dunn, G. Pursuivant; Bro. Hart Fellows
and Bro. John Whitaker, Grand Stewards; Bro. Joseph Enos, G. Tyler;
Bro. Benjamin Mills, G. Orator.
"The Lodge in the third degree of Masonry was dispensed with, and
a Lodge of Past Master Masons opened, when Breth. Snow, Whiteaker,
and Enos were duly installed in their respective offices. The Lodge of
Past Master Masons was then dispensed with, and the Lodge in the third
degree — Masonry resumed; when the Grand Lodge adjourned till to-
morrow evening at 7 o'clock.
" WM. H. BROWN, <7. Secretary*
" JANUARY 7, A. L. 582CV
" The R. W. Grand Lodge opened pursuant to adjournment.
" Present : M. W. James Hall, G. M.; R. W. Henry H. Snow, D. G. M.;:
R. W. R. J. Hamilton, G. S. Vf.pro tern.; R. W. Benjamin Mills, G. J.
W.; R. W. James 0. Wattles, G. T.; R. W. William Brown, G. S.; Bro. J.
Whiteaker, G. J. D. pro tern.; Bro. E. J. West, G. M. Visiting brethren,
and members L. M. Roberts, C. Slade, Diamond, and James.
" Bro. Snow, from the committee to whom was referred the communi-
cations from individuals, made the following recort, which was con-
curred in :
" ' To the Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois :
'"The committee, to whom was referred the communications from individuals
addressed to this Grand Lodge, have had under consideration a communication
from the Worshipful Master of Western Star Lodge No. 107, together with a pe-
tition from a number of Master Masons residing in and near the town of Kas-
kaskia, praying for letters of dispensation, and beg leave to make the following
report:
" ' The object of the communication is, to ask from this Grand Lodge a charter
of constitution. It appears from documents in possession of your committee,
that T. J, V. Owen is an officer of Western Star Lodge No. 107, and that he is
also recommended as one of the officers of the proposed Lodge. Conceiving it
incompatible with the general regulations of our institution, and contrary to the
principles inculcated in the Book of Constitutions, that a Mason should be a
member of more than one Lodge at the same time, your committee beg leave
to offer the following resolution :
" 'Rcsn'vc'l, That the prayer of the petitioners from Kaskaskia, praying for a
dispensation or charter, ought not to be granted.'
" Bro. West, from the committee to whom was referred the memorial
of E. C. Berry, made the following report, accompanied with a resolu-
tion :
—7
98 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"'The committee to whom was referred the petition of E. C. Berry, with the
accompanying documents, report that, after a careful examination of the sub-
ject, they have arrived at the conclusion which they are about to submit : Your
committee are fully aware of the delicacy with which the decision of a neigh-
boring Grand Lodge deserves to be treated, and of the impropriety of adhering
with too much pertinacity to our opinions. But from all the documents before
them, they can not but believe that the petition had been treated unkindly in be-
ing denied a re-consideration of proceedings which seem to them to have been
irregular; and when it is recollected that the effect of this denial is to brand the
character of tho petitioner with disgrace, and to exclude him forever from his
Masonic privileges, they fetl it a duty incumbent on them to advise another
effort on the part of this Grand Lodge in his behalf. In making this recommen-
dation, your committee have taken into consideration the high standing of the
petitioner as a citizen, his unblemished reputation as a man, the entire ab-
sence of any offense in his Masonic or private deportment, other than that now
under discussion. A character so fair (in all other respects) entitles the peti-
tioner to an indulgent hearing on this occasion, and the sacredness of his situ-
ation as the head of a numerous family, gives him an imposing claim as well
•upon the justice as the sympathy of his brethren. Your committee, therefore,
while they freely disclaim any right on the part of this Grand Lodge to condemn
the proceedings of the Grand Lodge of Missouri, or any intention on their part
so to do; and while they cheerfully concede the principle that the jurisdiction
of that Grand Lodge over the subject matter is sole and sovereign, believe that
the case of E. C. Berry imperiously calls for some further exertion in his behalf
by this Grand Lodge. They, therefore recommend the adoption of the follow-
ing resolution :
"'Resolved, That a committee of two be appointed, whose duty it shall be to
correspond with the Grand Lodge of Missouri upon the subject of the proceedings
of the Vandalia Lodge and that Grand Lodge in the case of E. C. Berry, to ex-
plain to them the views of this Grand Lodge, and to ask for such relief as they
may deem right, and that Grand Lodge may be willing to concede.'
" Which report and resolution were adopted.
" Ordered, That Breth. Sawyer and West be that committee.
" On motion of Bro. Brown,
"Resolved, That a committee be appointed to take into consideration the ap-
plication of Bro. John Diamond for relief, and report on Monday evening.
" Ordered, That Breth. Snow and Whiteaker be that committee,
" Bro. Snow, from the committee to whom was referred the reports of
subordinate Lodges, and the application of brethren residing in and near
the county of Pike for a charter, made a report that the prayer of the
petitioners ought to be granted, which report was concurred in.
" On motion of Bro. West,
" Resolved, That the R. W. Grand Secretary of the R. W. Grand Lodge be and
he is hereby required to deliver over to the committee appointed by this Grand
Lodge, to correspond with the Grand Lodge of Missouri in case of E. C. Berry,
all the papers, records, and documents relative thereto; and that the committee
return the same to this Grand Lodge, together with the correspondence and re-
port, at its next grand annual communication.
" The Grand Lodge then adjourned until Tuesday evening, at 7 o'clock.
" WM. H. BROWN, G. Secretary.
HISTORY OF MASONEY IN ILLINOIS. 09
"TUESDAY EVENING, January 10, A. L. 582(5.
" The R. W. Grand Lodge of Illinois convened pursuant to adjournment.
" Present: M. W. James Hall, G. M.: R. W. J. Y. Sawyer, G. S. W.;
R. W. Benjamin Mills, G. J. W.; R. W. William H. Brown, G. Secretary ;
Bro. R. H. Peebles, G. S. D.; Bro. 0. M. Ross, G. J. D., pro tern.; Bro.
Joseph Enos, G. Tyler. Visiting brethren and members, Breth. Webb,
Phillips, Whiteaker, West, D. Prickett, Wright, Ball, Newhall, Wilton,
D. Blackwell, and T. C. Browne.
"The committee to whom we're referred the application of Bro. John
Diamond for relief, reported that the applicant was worthy of relief, but
from the situation of the funds of this Grand Lodge, they reported the
following resolution, which was adopted :
"Resolved, That a private subscription be opened for the relief of our said
Bro. John Diamond, and that the members of this Grand Lodge, and other Ma-
sons, be requested to aid to the relief of Bro. Diamond.
" Bro. Snow, from the Committee on Subordinate Lodges, made the
following report, which was accompanied with a resolution :
"'The committee to whom was referred the returns of subordinate Lodges,
beg leave to report that the dispensation granted Illion Lodge No. 12 and Fron-
tier Lodge No. 13, in the recess, have been returned, together with their by-laws
and copies of their proceedings under that dispensation ; that they received
their dispensations and acted under them for the first time on the 3d day of De-
cember, 1825, and that their by-laws and proceedings appear to have been correct
and strictly conformable to Masonic usage, with one exception. It is the opinion
of your committee that the brethren of that Lodge have advanced candidates from
one degree to another, and even for initiation with too much rapidity, thereby
leaving too little time either to become acquainted with the lectures in the pre-
ceding degree, or for a strict inquiry into the character of the applicants. They
therefore beg leave to offer the following resolution:
"'Resolved, That this Grand Lodge disapproves of the practice of advancing
candidates to any degree until they shall have acquired a competent knowledge
of the preceding degree.
" 'Resolved, That a charter be granted to Frontier Lodge No. 13 and Illion Lodge
No. 12.
" Which resolution was adopted, and the report agreed to.
"The petition of Bro. George Webb, praying an investigation into
certain charges preferred by Bro. Webb against Bro. James 0. Wattles
for unmasonic conduct, was read, and on motion of Bro. G. S. Warden,
" Resolved, That the Grand Secretary be required to furnish Bro. Wattles a
copy of the charges preferred against him by Bro. George Webb, and that a sum-
mons issue against Bro. Wattles, requiring him to appear before the next regular
annual communication of this Grand Lodge, to answer the charges aforesaid,
preferred by Bro. Webb.
"On motion of Bro. Brown,
" Resolved, That a charter be granted to Illion Lodge No. 12 and Frontier Lodge
No. 13, upon payment of the sum due by the by-laws for the issuing of a charter,
with the fees due the officers for the dispensations and charters of these Lodges
respectively.
100 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"On motion of Bro. Mills, and amended by Bro. West,
" 'Resolved, That HO much of the 8th section of the By-Laws of this Grand
Lodge as requires the payment of one dollar from visiting brethren be, and the
same is hereby repealed, and that from and after the adoption of this resolution
seventy-five cents only shall be exacted only, in lieu of that sum in that part of
the By-Laws of this R. W. Grand Lodge, hereby repealed, mentioned.
"On motion of Bro. Snow,
On motion,
" Resolved, That the Grand Secretary be authorized to pay the account of Bro.
Grand Tyler for his services and necessaries furnished this Grand Lodge at its
present grand annual communication.
"Resolved, That the thanks of this R. W. Grand Lodge be presented to the
Honorable Senate for the accommodation furnished the Grand Lodge, in the use
of their chamber, during the present grand annual communication.
'•' No further business appearing before the Grand Lodge, it was closed
in peace and harmony.
" WILLIAM II. BROWN, Grand Secretary."
The Lodges which at this time were working under the jurisdiction of
the Grand Lodge of Illinois, were Western Star No. 1, Laurence No. 2,
Libanus No. 3, Olive Branch No. 4, Vandalia No. 5, Union No. 6, Eden
No. 7, Hiram No. 8, Albion No. 9, Palestine No. 10, Greene No. 11, Illion
No. 12, Frontier No. 13, LaFayette No. 14, Sangamon No. 15.
The Lodges were located as follows: No. 1, at Kaskaskia; No. 2, at
Shawneetown ; No. 3, at Edwardsville ; No. 4, at Upper Alton ; No. 5, at
Vandalia; No. 6, at Jonesboro; No. 7, at Covington; No. 9, at Albion;
No. 11, at Carrollton; No. 13, at Lewistown (Fulton co.), and No. 15, at
fc pringfield. As to the location of Nos. 8, 10, 12, and 14, we have no
knowledge, and only know that such Lodges did exist. We can obtain
no information regarding them whatever.
For some cause to us at this time unknown, the charter of Sangamon
Lodge was arrested by the Grand Lodge of Missouri. We have in our
possession two communications from brethren then residing at Spring-
field, which we present. The probable cause for the arresting of this
charter was the failure of the Lodge to ask dismissal from the Grand
Lodge of Missouri, and failure to pay its dues thereto. Bro. CONSTANT,
who signed the first letter, was at the time Master of the Lodge :
"SPRINGFIELD, SANGAMON COUNTY, ILLINOIS, June 26th 1826.
" DR. SIR: — I am informed that the charter is taken from the Springfield Lodge,
and that the members will be expelled, in consequence of their not paying up their
dues. I just lernt from some of the members that at a meeting of part of the
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 101
Lodge last Spring, they agreed to pay their proportion of the amount due the
Grand Lodge, on condition the Grand Lodge would not expell them. This, to
me, is extraordinary proceedings. Mr. Broadwell and myself paid between six
and seven dollars each to members of the Lodge who had paid out money for
our charter. I have paid my dues regular, and when I was Master of the Lodge,
I still continued to pay my dues, although I was not bound so to do. Mr. Broad-
well has been very punctual in paying his dues, when he could attend our meet-
ings. The reason I mention Mr. Broadwell is, he was away from home, and have
just returned, and perhaps he has not yet heard of the proceeding of a part of
the members of this Lodge. You will find by examining the Lodge books that
the Lodge stands charged with the amount due Mr. Broadwell and myself, and
I suspect there is money in the hands of (* * * * *) belonging to the
Lodge, unless you drew it out when last here: Is it just under those circum-
stances that we should be expelled and those members excused, when the Lodge
was indebted to us more than our proportion of the dues due the Grand Lodge,
and all this done without my having any knowledge of it until after the Grand
Lodge had their Spring session. None of the members will dare deny but that
I have as great exertion as any other member, if not the greatest, to keep up the
credit of the Lodge, uiifl I can't think I have been treated as I ort to of been.
I would of paid my portion of the dues at any time, and urged it often while 1
was Master of the Lodge, but all did not appear to be disposed to pay anything
out of their pockets towards paying that debt. You will confer a favour to inform
me what is done, and how I shall proceed to get clear of the difficulty I have got
into by the misconduct of others. Please write as soon as possible, as I have to
go a trip to Ohio in September.
" Respectfully yours,
"THOS. CONSTANT.
" Mr. G. H. C. MELODY, W. G. M."
Bro. LATHAM, who signs the second letter, was one of the petitioners
for the dispensation.
"SPRINGFIELD, 28th June, 182G.
" DEAR SIR AND BROTHER:— I have been informed that the charter is taken from
Sangamon Lodge, and my name is among a list of the members. I merely
became a member for the establishment of the Lodge, after which I considered
myself as not being a member, and requested of the Lodge not to consider me
as such — on account of my deafness I could receive no satisfaction in sitting in
the Lodge. I therefore wish that I may be excused from expulsion, iu case your
Lodge should expel any of the members.
" Respectfully yours,
" JAMES LATHAM.
"Secretary of the Grand Lodge, St. Louis, Mo.
" N. B. — Please, if my excuse is considered insufficient, let me know before
you proceed in the business. I did not sign my name to the bye-laws, but it
was done without my consent.
"JAMES LATHAM."
Of all the Lodges heretofore enumerated, we have no further know-
ledge, with the exceptions of Western Star and Olive Branch.
That Olive Branch Lodge was in existence late in 1826, papers in the
hands of the historian go to prove. These papers are not of sufficient
102 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
importance to reproduce here, but they are of importance, insomuch as
they establish the existence of the Lodge. They consist of the original
petition for initiation of Matthew Johnson, dated January 31, 1826 ; the
report of a committee appointed to procure a suitable conveyance for
Bro. Hanson, to Pike county; Tyler's bill, dated Oct. 9th, and the peti-
tion of Bro. H. S. Summers, for a demit dated Oct. 14th, 1826.
The Grand lodge met in 1827, on the 3d day of January. The only
copy of the proceedings which were known to be extant, were destroyed
by the fire which consumed the archives of the Grand Lodge of Ken-
tucky. We extract from the " History of Masonry in Kentucky," pub-
lished by Bro. A. G. Hodges, the following information regarding that
meeting :
"The state of Masonry, it was said, presented the most flattering and encour-
aging prospects. The changes proposed by the Grand Lodge of Maine, in ad-
mitting mutilated persons, was viewed with solicitude; and it was decided
that no one thus made should be recognized in Illinois. Reports of suspen-
sions, expulsions, and rejections, should no longer be made public. Six Lodges
were represented."
Western Star Lodg-5 still continued to exist, and experienced con-
siderable difficulty in severing its connection with the Grand Lodge of
Pennsylvania. The permission granted by that Grand Lodge, to affili-
ate with the Grand Lodge of Illinois, was not acted upon until the 27th
of January, 1827, when the following action was had :
" EXTRA MEETING OF THE WESTERN STAR LODGE No. 107, \
KASKASKIA, Saturday, Jan. 27th, A. D. 1827, A. L.5827. j
" Present: C. C. Con way, W. M.; L. W. Cooper, S. W.; Th. J. V. Owen, J. W.
and Tyler p. t., and J. D. p. t,; Wm. C. Greenup, Secretary ; P. Fouke, Tr. p. t.;
Jacob Feamon, S. D.; Shadrach Bond, P. Master. John Atkins, visiting brother
M. M. The Lodge was solemnly opened in the first step of Masonry, according
to ancient form.
" No business appearing in the first [degree] of Masonry, it was closed, and a
Fellow Crafts Lodge was opened, and no business appearing before the Lodge in
the Fellow Crafts Lodge, it was closed and a Master Masons Lodge was opened.
"The Worshipful Master laid before the Lodge a copy of the resolutions of
the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, adopted on the 21st November, A. L>. 1825,
authorizing the Right W. Grand Master to grant permission to this Lodge to
surrender its warrant and procure another under the Right Worshipful Grand
Lodge of Illinois, when he shall be satisfied that all practicable collections and
payments shall be made, accompanied by the assent of the R. W. Grand Mas-
ter, bearing date the 30th November last, and a letter from the Grand Secretary
of the IGth of December last, which were severally read.
" On motion of Bro. Wm. C. Greenup, and seconded by Bro. Bond, it was
unanimously
"Resolved, That application he immediately made by the Worshipful Master
of this Lodge, to the Right Worshipful Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of
Illinois, for a warrant or charter under that Grand Lodge, and that when at-
tained, that the present warrant of this Lodge, under the Grand Lodge of
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 103
IVnnsylviinia, be surrendered to the Right Worshipful Grand Master of the
lirund" Lodge of Illinois, with a request that he transmit the same to the Grand
Lodge of Pennsylvania, and inform that Grand Lodge of the new installation of
this Lodge.
" Re>olvc'l, That it be recommended to the Bight Worshipful Grand Master
of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, that the name of this Lodge be called in the
new warrant 'The Western Star Lodge.'
" Resoloctl, As the opinion of this Lodge that the warrant now asked from the
Grand Lodge of Illinois, ought to be given gratis, except the Grand Secretaries
foes for making out the warrant, which this Lodge will cause to be paid at the
time of installation.
" Resolved, That this Lodge, will state by ballot at the present meeting, suit-
able members to be named in the new warrant, and recommends them to be
named as Master and Wardens.
" !i ••,')! oed. That a copy of the proceedings of this meeting be made out and
certified by the Secretary and transmitted by the Worshipful Master, together
with copies of the last communication from the Secretary of the Grand Lodge
of Pennsylvania, to the Right Worshipful Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of
Illinois.
"A petition was received from Bro. Jacob Feamon, praying to demit from
this Lodge, which being read, on motion and seconded, said brother has leave to
demit from this Lodge, he having paid up all his dues.
"The Lodge then, pursuant to the 4th resolution, adopted at this meeting,
proceeded to choose by ballot, suitable members to be recommended as fit per-
sons to be named as Master and Wardens in the warrant to be applied for from
the Grand Lodge of Illinois, and the same being severally taken, Bro. Shadrach
Bond was chosen Master, William C. Greenup, Senior Warden, and Thomas J. V.
Owen, Junior Warden.
"The Lodge closed in due order and harmony, &c.
" WM. C. GREENUP,
"Secretary."
Accompanying this was the following letter, addressed to Bro. Snow,
then Deputy Grand Master, and acting Grand Master:
" KASKASKIA, Feb. oth, 1827.
"Right Worshipful Sir and Brnther:
"'You will perceive by the p/ . •• eding copies of the minutes of the late special
meeting of the Western Star Lodge No. 107, and the copies of the resolutions of
the R. W. Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, the declaration of the R. W. Grand
Master of that Grand Lodge, and the letter of the Grand Secretary, I am directed
to transmit them to you and apply for a new warrant from the R. W. Grand
Lodge of Illinois.
" In November a memorial was transmitted by the Master and Wardans of
this Lodge and laid before the R. W. Grand Lodge of Illinois, at the last Grand
Communication, requesting a resolution to be passed authorizing the issue of a
warrant to this Lodge gratis, Secretaries fees excepted, which resolution was
passed as I arn informed by a member (by letter) authorizing you to grant the
same upon bein^ satisfied that the R. W. Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania con-
sented thereto. That consent we now have, and the foregoing is a true copy.
" ' The resolutions of this Lodge contain, as far as occurs to me, the views and
desires of the Lodge, except a request of the members expressed to me of hav-
ing an early installation, and if consistent, in as public a manner as the case will
permit. It would afford us particular pleasure if you could find it convenient
to be personally present, and that we could have certain previous information
of the time, so that soiiie preparations may be made to afford time to invite as
many of the craft to be present as circumstances may permit.
101 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
" I shall esteem it a particular favor to receive from you as early as you can
find it convenient, an answer containing your determinations.
"i am with due respect, your obedient servant and brother,
"\VM. C. GREEXIT.
" R. W. Bro. H. H. SNOW."
The Grand Lodge was in existence in the year 1828, as is evident
from a paper which we here present:
"KASKASKIA, April 10, 18^0.
"Sin: — The Grand Lodge of Illinois having granted a warrant to the members
of W. S. Lodge No. 107, formerly held under the Grand Lodge of Illinois, and
the new Lodge having been installed on the 21th June last, I herewith enclose
you the warrant of Lodge No. 107.
"CLEMENT C. CONWAY,
"Late W. M. W. S. Lodge 107.
" To the R. W. Grand Sec. Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania."
From this time, until 1835, all is a blank as regards Freemasonry in
Illinois. Fiery persecutions came, brother was arrayed against brother,
foul-mouthed slander stalked abroad; enmity was engendered in the
hearts of the people, and if those who held firmly to the teachings of the
Fraternity held any meetings whatever, it was done so secretly, and in
such manner, that the outside world knew nothing of it.
The Grand Lodge went down, and with it, its constitution. The last
to doff its armor, was Western Star, the Alpha of Freemasonry in Illinois
and Missouri, and for the time the Omega, as far as our own State is
concerned.
Had the brethren, with that patience which characterized Masons
during those stormy years, held on only three or four years longer, th e
Lodge which was organized in the year 1805 would to-day rank among
the Lodges of not the weak Grand Lodge of 1826, but the strong, healthy,
matured giant of 1868, the fourth Grand Lodge on the face of the earth.
But alas !
" The best laid plans of mice and men gang aft aglee."
BODLEY LODGE.
This Lodge (now No. 1 on our register) was named after Thomas
Bodley, who was one of the three representatives of Lexington Lodge
No. 1, in the convention, September 8th, 1800, which organized the Grand
Lod^e of Kentucky, and was clerk of the convention. He was ap-
pointed Secretary of the Grand Lodge Oct. 16, 1800, at which time he
was Senior Warden of Lexington Lodge. February 9th he was appointed
Grand Secretary, pro tern., in the absence of James Russell, Gr. Scn'y, at
which time he represented Lexington Lodge as Master. He was Grand
Secretary at the October session of 1801, and also served as Junior
HISTOKY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS. 103
Grand Warden pro tern,, in the absence of C. L. Clarke. He was then ap-
pointed Grand Secretary, and appeared as such at the April and October
sessions of 1802, in which year he was re-appointed, being succeeded in
1803 by Daniel Bradford. He was one of the clerks of the convention
which met December 13th, 1793, which recommended to the United
States government the seizure and control of the Mississippi river, alleg-
ing that as Spain was then engaged in a war which taxed all her
energies, the seizure of the Spanish country might be easily made, and
easily held.
On December 6th, 1834, Breth. Daniel Harrison, Daniel Whipple,
Henry King, Samuel W. Rogers, J. N. Ralston, Joshua Streeter, John
Wood, Hiram Rogers, H. L. Montandon, A. Miller, Henry Asbury, J. T.
Holmes, Nathaniel Pease, Michael Most, Salmon Cogswell, Richard M.
Young, and Samuel Alexander, met at Quincy, for the purpose of taking
into consideration the propriety of establishing a Lodge. As to the
transactions at that meeting, we will use the words of the record :
" On motion it was unanimously
" Resolved, that a petition be sent to the Grand Lodge of Kentucky, praying the
grant of a Dispensation, or a Charter for a Lodge, and that Brother Daniel Har-
rison be recommended as Master; Bros. Daniel Whipple and H. King, Wardens.
"Whereupon a petition was drawn up, and signed by the following
Breth., viz : [The names are those already given.]
" And it was
" Resolved, that each Brother pay to Daniel Harrison the sum of two dollars, to
be appropriated towards paying the expenses of said Dispensation or Charter."
"After which the convention adjourned sine die."
Nothing further was done until the 19th of October, 1835, nearly one
year after the meeting of the above convention. On that day the follow-
ing record was made :
" Notice having been given that the Grand Lodge of Kentucky had at
t.heir annual communication, held in Louisville, on the 31st day of
August, A. L. 5835, granted a Dispensation for a Lodge to be held in
Quincy, 111., to be styled Bodley Lodge U. D., to continue one year, and
that the R. W. Richard Apperson G. M. G. L. K. had deputised Bro.
H. H. Snow to install the several officers named in the said warrant
of Dispensation, to set the Craft to work, <fcc ; and that October 19, A. L.
1835, had been appointed for that purpose, the brethren met agreeably
to appointment.
" Present : Daniel Harrison, Henry King, J. M. Whitney, J. Harris, J.
T. Holmes, H. Rogers, Michael Most, J. N. Ralston and Henry Asbury.
The several officers were then duly installed by Bro. II. H. Snow, as fol-
lows : Daniel Harrison, W. M. ; J. M. Whitney, S. W., pro tern.;
Henry King, J. W.; J. T. Holmes, Treas. : H. Rogers, Sec.; J. N. Ralston,
S. D.; Michael Most, J. D.; Henry Asbury, Tyler.
106 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
" The Lodge being opened in the Entered Apprentice's degree, on mo-
tion it was
"Resolved, That the Worshipful Master appoint a committee of four, to draft a
code of by-laws, and report the same at our next meeting.
"Bros. Holmes, Ealston, King, and Rogers were appointed said com-
mittee.
" No further business appearing, the Lodge was closed, to meet again
Nov. 3, at 6 o'clock P. M."
The "J. M. Whitney" alluded to in this record, was J. W. "Whitney,
formerly of Olive Branch Lodge, and then living in Pike county. Of the
others, we have been unable to obtain any information as to where they
were made. Bros. Asbury and John Wood are, we believe, the only
brethren living who assisted in the formation of Bodley Lodge.
" Meetings were held November 3d, at which Bro. Whitney was in-
troduced as a member of LaFayette Lodge No. , and appointed S.
W. pro tern. The committee on by-laws reported, and their report was
adopted, but no record of the by-laws appears ,- on December 5th, at which
no business was transacted, and on December 26, at which meeting the
following officers were elected : S. Alexander, Treas.; S. W. Rogers,
Sec.; H. Rogers, S. D.; J. N. Ralston, J. D., and A. Miller and S. Cogges-
well, Stewards. During the year 1836, meetings were held as follows :
January 2d. — At which no business was transacted.
February 7th. — At which the petitions of Lytle Griffin for initiation,
and James Murphy and J. W. Whitney, for affiliation, were received.
March 5th. — Bro. Whitney was affiliated, Lytle Griffin elected, and
petition of James Murphy laid over.
April 2nd. — Bro. Murphy's petition again laid over, and initiation of
Lytle Griffin postponed, for want of a suitable room.
April 12th. — Lytle Griffin was initiated, Bro. Henry King presiding.
May 7th. — Petition of James Murphy again laid over, and Griffin
elected for, and passed to the second degree.
June 5th. — Bro. S. Coggeswell was elected Tyler.
June 14th. — Griffin raised.
June 24th. — The Lodge proceeded to the Congregational church, where
a sermon was delivered by the Rev. P. Boring, after which they returned
to the lodge-room, where the petitions of A. W. Harris, Charles Brown,
and J. C. Downer, for affiliation, and James McClain, for initiation, were
received.
July 2nd. — Petition of Harrison Dills received, and the Lodge unamin-
ously resolved to petition the Grand Lodge for a charier. James
McClain initiated, and petition of Louis Bigwood received.
July 25th. — The Lodge buried with Masonic honors the remains of
Brother Nathaniel Pease.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 107
August 6th. — Harrison Dills and Louis Bigwood initiated. Petition
of Anthony Tuslin, a Fellow Craft, received, he elected and raised.
James McClain passed. Committee on petitions for affiiliation, received
at meeting of June 24th, were granted further time. Petitions of Henry
L. Simmons and Thomas Carter received.
On the 22d October, the charter was received, and accepted. This
charter was granted to them as Bodley Lodge No. 97. Louis Bigwood
was examined in ope.n Lodge, elected and passed to the degree of Fellow
Craft.
November 5th. — Petitions of E. Conyers and Martin Ladnor for initia-
tion, Joseph Orr for second degree, and E. Turner for affiliation were
received. Thomas Carter and H. L. Simmons, initiated. Harrison Dills
passed, James McClain raised, James Murphy affiliated, and one hundred
copies by-laws ordered to be printed.
December 3d. — Martin Ladnor and Enoch Conyers initiated. H.
King demitted. Breth. Brown and Turner affiliated. Petitions of T.
Monroe and J. Grant, for affiliation, and John G. Driskill, for initiation,
received, and Louis Bigwood raised.
December 6th. — Brother Samuel Alexander was buried with Masonic
honors, and resolutions of sorrow and regret passed.
December 27th. — Breth. Monroe and Grant affiliated, and officers as
follows elected : J. N. Ealston, W. M.; H. Rogers, S. W.; D. Harrison,
J. W.; A. Miller, Treas.; H. Ashbury, Sec.; James Murphy, S. D.; J. Grant,
J. D.; and S. Cogswell, Steward and Tyler.
FRANKLIN LODGE.
" On the 25th day of August, 1836, Breth. Harvey S. Summers, John A.
Maxsey, Alexander Hart, Henry P. Rundel, Benjamin Walker, Wm.
Wilkinson, Jacob Smith, and J. C. Bruner, petitioned the Grand Lodge
of Missouri for a new Lodge at Alton, to be named Franklin. This
petition was recommended by St. Louis Lodge No. 20, and a dispensa-
tion, in the usual form, signed by John D. Daggett, Dep. Grand Master,
and Richard B. Dallam, Grand Secretary, was issued on the 9th of De-
cember, 1836.
"Alexander Hart was named as Master; Benjamin Walker, Senior;
and Jacob C. Bruner, Junior Wardens.
" Of these brethren, Hart, Summers, Rundel, and Walker, we recog-
nize as former members of Olive Branch Lodge. Bro. Bruner was a
member of Libanus Lodge.
Of the proceedings of this Lodge during the year 1836, we have no
record.
CHAPTER X.
1837.
BODLEY LODGE No. 97.
January 7. — Petitions of Colman Talbot, J. W. Chenoweth, and Wil-
liam Jacobs received. Enoch Conyers and Thomas Carter passed, and
Breth. Miller, Ralston and Asbury, were appointed a committe to con-
fer with the trustees of the Methodist church, and see upon what terms
the Lodge would be allowed to fit up a room in the "garret" of said
church, for Masonic purposes, and also to make same inquiry of the
County Commissioners as to the Court House, then building.
February 4th. — 2 o'clock P. M. Petition of Colman Talbot withdrawn.
J. "W. Chenoweth initiated. Petition of A. G. Driskill [John G.] with-
drawn. Petition of John Woolffor initiation, received. H. L. Simmons
passed, and Harrison Dills raised.
February 18th. — Thomas Carter and Enoch Conyers raised.
April 15th.— A. W. Harris affiliated.
April 21st. — Petition of Stephen Tusliu received. J. "W. Chenoweth
passed, and H. L. Simmons raised.
May 1st. — Stephen Tuslin affiliated. Petition of John H. Holton for
affiliation received. J. W. Chenowith raised.
The following was passed:
" Resolved, That the members of this Lodge celebrate the anniversary of St.
John the Baptist, and that Bros. Jnnies Murphy, James McClain, S. W. Rogers,
J. N. Ralston, and Thorns Carter be the committe of arrangements, with full
power to provide a dinner, an orator and a preacher to officiate on said occasion ;
to invite our brothers of Palmyra and elsewhere to attend ; and most respect-
fully to invite the ladies, to partake of the festivities of the occasion; in short,
all acts for the comfort, convenience, and good order of the occasion."
The following was also passed :
"Resolved, That a committee of tl;
lodges in this state are organized, j:
ilinois, to be held in the town of Qu
Breth. Asbury, Young, and Rogers were appointed.
"Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to ascertain how many
Lodges in this state are organized, preparatory to orgai,;:'.ing a Grand Lodge of
Illinois, to be held in the town of Quincv."
HISTORY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS. KM)
June 3rd. — J. H. Holton affiliated. The resolution regarding celebra-
tion of St. John's day, was "rescinded," and an invitation from Palmyra
accepted.
July 1st. — John Woolf passed, and officers elected as follows: Henry
Asbury, W. M.; E. Turner, S. W.; H. Dills, J. W.; A. Miller, Treas.; J.
N. Ralston, Sec.; L. Griffin, S. D.; Jas. McClain, J. D.; H. L. Simmons,
Tyler.
August 5th. — John "Woolf raised, and Harrison Dills appointed a com-
mittee to procure a lock for the outer door..
September 2nd. — Petitions of James H. Luce and William S. Walton,
presented by Bro. Dills, and received. Bretti. Eogers and Dills were ap-
pointed a committee to inform a certain brother that the "Lodge had
witnessed with pain his habits of intemperance, and that the said com-
mittee admonish him of his errors in a brotherly manner."
October 7th. — James H. Luce initiated, and A. W. Harris demitted.
December 2d. — James H. Luce passed.
December 27th. — Petitions of Joseph Kelly, John G. Driskill, James
S. Logan, and P. W. Martin received. Breth Ralston, Rogers, Cheno-
weth, Tuslin, and Miller were appointed a committee to nominate
officers for the ensuing six months. James H. Luce raised. The com-
mittee on nominations reported "that after duly considering upon the
subject they believe it will better comport with our by-laws, to have
some brother in open Lodge, to nominate any one he may think proper."
The election resulted in the choice of the following : J. N. Ralston, W.
M.; J. H. Holton, S. W.; L. Griffin, J. W.; A. Miller, Treas.; Henry As-
bury, Sec.; H. Rogers, S. D.: H. Dills, J. D.; L. Bigwood, Steward and
Tyler.
FRANKLIN LODGE.
The only record we have relating to Franklin Lodge, is the following :
" FRAXKLIX LODGE, ALTOX, ILLINOIS, )
April 18th, A. D. 1837, A. L. 5837. /
" la open Lodge, working in the third degree of Masonry.
" Brother Worshipful Alexander Hart tendered his resignation as Master of
this Lodge, which was accepted, subject to the consent of the M. W. G. Lodge.
" Brother Benjamin Walker, Senior Warden, tendered his resignation, which
was accepted, subject to the consent of the M. W. Grand Lodge.
•' On motion,
" Resolved, That the Lodge now proceed to the election of' Worshipful Master
and Senior Warden, to fill the vacancies occasioned by the resignation of Bros.
Hart and Walker.
" Whereupon a ballot was taken, and Brother Charles Howard was duly elected
Worshipful Master, and Brother Henry P. Bundle was duly elected Senior
Warden.
" On motion,
110 HISTOEY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"Resolved, That the Secretary be requested to transmit to the officers of the
Most Worshipful Grand Lodge at St. Louis, respectfully soliciting their advice
and consent to the appointment of Brother Charles Howard, Worshipful Master;
Brother Henry P. Rundel, Senior Warden, and that Brother Jacob C. Bruner be
continued Junior Warden of their Lodge.'
" I, Samuel C. Pierce, Secretary of Franklin Lodge, at Alton Illinois, working
under a dispensation from the M. W. Grand Lodge, of the State of Missouri, do
certify that the foregoing is a true copy from the proceedings of said Lodge.
"Given under my hand and private seal, as Secretary, this 19th day of April,
A. D. 1837, A. L. 5S37.
"S. C. PIERCE, Secretary."
Upon receipt of this, a new dispensation, signed by S. W.-Bv.Carnegy,
Grand Master, and Richard B. Dallatn, Grand Secretary, wi^s issued,
bearing date May 10th, 1837, and in which Charles Howard was\named
as W. M., Henry P. Rundel, S. W., and Jacob C. Bruner, J. W. Of this
Lodge, we have no records for 1837. ^~
JACKSONVILLE HARMONY LODGE.
On the third day of October 1837, a petition for a Lodge at Jackson-
ville, Illinois, signed by thirteen brethren, was presented to St. Louis
Lodge No. 20, for recommendation, which was granted.
This petition was signed as follows :
"John T. Jones, late of Miami No. 45, Ohio; W. B. Warren, late of
Mt. Vernon No. 14, Kentucky; A. Dunlap, late of Murray -No. 35, Ken-
tucky; Wm. S. Vance, late of Murray No. 35, Kentucky; P. Coffman,
late of Davis No. 22, Lex., Ky.; James L. James, late of Brearly
Lodge No. 9, New Jersey; Samuel M. Prosser, late of Mt. Olivet, Va.;
George Henry, late of Lexington No. 1, Kentucky; Mat. Stacy, Hopkins-
ville, Ky.; George Hackett, Illion No. 24, 111.; Benj. Harvey, late of
Lexington No. 1, Kentucky; Richard Henry, late of Lexington No. 1,
Kentucky : Dennis Rockwell, Illion No. 24, Illinois."
Bro. John T. Jones was named as Master, W. B. Warren as S. W.,
and Alexander Dunlap as J. W. Although this dispensation was recom-
mended on the 3rd day of October, 1837, it was not received until No-
vember 30, 1838.
EQUALITY LODGE.
The petition for the dispensation for Egualitv.. Lodge is not .in existence,
having been destroyed by the fire in which the records of the Grand
Lodge of Kentucky were consumed. The first meeting of this Lodge was
held April 7th, 1837.
We will present the record of the first meeting entire :
" Pursuant to a dispensation granted by Wm. Brown, Jr., Grand Mas-
ter of the Grand Lodge of the State of Kentucky, bearing date the
day of , A. D. 1836, A. L. 5836, granting to certain members of the
honorable Fraternity of Ancient York Masons, the privilege of opening
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. Ill
a Lodge in the town of E^ualitj, in the county of^Gallatin and State of
Illinois, a number of the craft by previous [appointment] met at the
Court House in said town, on the 7th day of April, A. D. 1837, A. L.
5837.
" Present: W. James C. Weller, of Clinton Lodge No. 82, M.; H. P.
Williams, of same, S. W.; A. B. Dake, formerly of Shawneetown Lodge
^•o. — ) j. W.; Absalom Ashby, of Cumberland Lodge No. 8, Secretary;
Willis Hargrave, Treasurer; Israel Towles, S. D.,- C. C. Lockett, of Clin-
ton Lodge No. 82, J. D.; Thomas Pruett, of same, S. and T. Edward
Jones.
"The Lodge was opened in the 3d degree according to ancient form
and usage.
" After which the Lodge moved in procession to the Court House, at
which time the W. M. James C. Weller installed, according to ancient
rites, A. B. Dake, Master ; William Siddall, S. Warden ; Edward Levell,
J. Warden; Absalom Ashby, Secretary; Willis Hargrave, Treasurer;
Israel D. Towles, S. Deacon; William Burnett, J. Deacon; S. D. Hawke,
S. and Tyler.
" The Rev. James Alexander, by previous appointment and request,
proceeded to pronounce the funeral service of our departed and much
lamented worthy brother, Tyler D. Hewitt, formerly of Lodge No.
-, after which a procession was formed and proceeded to the grave,
where the usual ceremonies observed on such occasions were performed
by the W. M.
'.'The Lodge from thence proceeded to Mr. Lane's, to partake of a col-
lation prepared for the occasion, and then proceeded to the Lodge room.
" Lodge was then closed in due form and harmony, at 4 o'clock P. M.
"JAMES C. WELLER, M."
Then follows the code of by-laws, in which we see nothing strange
to extract.
The Clinton Lodge No. 82, above alluded to, was situated at Princeton,
Kentucky, as was also Cumberland Lodge No. 8.
Bro. A. B. Dake was Junior Warden of Albion Lodge at its organization,
and still later became a member of Lawrence Lodge No. 34, at Shawnee-
town.
The next meeting was held April llth, at which the petitions of AVm.
J. Gatewood, S. R. Rowan, Tarlton Dunn, James W. Hamilton, Andrew
Musgrave, and Valentine J. Evins, for initiation, and T. Levell, for the
third degree, were received. Bro. Levell was elected instanter, and
raised the same evening.
April 29 — The following petitions were received : Wm. T. Hewitt, for
affiliation; Edward Dobbins, for second degree; Joseph E. Watkins, for
initiation. May 6— J. W. Hamilton, A. W. Pool, V. F. Evins, S. R
112 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
Rowan, elected to first degree; Edward Dobbins to second, and "Wm. F.
Hewut for affiliation. May 8— J. W. Hamilton; May 11, A. W. Pool,
and on May 13, V. F. Evins, were initiated. May 17 — Edward Dobbins,
and on May 22, A. W. Pool and J. W. Hamilton were passed. May
26 — Edward Dobbins raised, E. Jones demitted, and petitions of Robert
T. Hopper, Daniel F. Boswell, and Lee Hargrave for initiation, and
Samuel Gary, of Clinton No. 9, Ohio, for the second degree, received.
May 27— J. W. Hamilton raised. May 29 — A. W. Pool raised. May
31 — Wm. J. Gatewood and Joseph E. Watkins, and on June 1, Tarlton
Dunn, were initiated. June 3 — Petition of L. "VV. Hargrave received,
and Daniel F. Boswell initiated. June 6 — Robert T. Hopper and Lee
Hargrave initiated. June 7 — Watkins and Dunn elected, and Lodge
closed until next morning at 8 o'clock, at which time Gatewood was
elected, and the Lodge called off until 2 o'clock P. M., when Gatewood,
Dunn, Watkins, and Boswell were passed. June 10 — Hopper passed.
June 12 — Gatewood and Dunn, and on June 14, Boswell and Watkins,
were raised. June 17 — Petitions of E. H. Gatewood, Solomon Holt,
Moses Thompson, and Moses Fowler received. Committee appointed to
" restore harmony between Breth. Gatewood and Hamilton, and Breth.
Hawke and Dobbins." Hopper raised, and Isaac D. Towles demitted.
June 19 — L. W. Hargrave and Lee Hargrave passed. June 20 — Solomon
Holt and Moses Thompson initiated, and L. W. Hargrave and Lee
Hargrave raised. June 24 — Twenty-one brethren present. H. Wilson
and Leonard White visiting. The Lodge having proceeded to an
election, the following result was arrived at: Arnold B. Dake was
elected W. M.; A. W. Pool, S. W.; Tarlton Dunn, J. W.; William J.
Gatewood, Secretary ; Robert T. Hopper, Treasurer ; J. E. Watkins, S. D.;
T. H. Levell, J. D.; and S. D. Hawke, Tyler. The officers were then
installed, when "they were called from labor to refreshment, and the
brethren repaired from the lodge-room to the house of Mr. S. R. Rowan,
where they were again called on, and a regular procession was formed,
according to ancient usage. Bro. Watkins, Marshal. The Lodge then
proceeded to the Court House, and heard a sermon delivered by the Rev.
James Alexander, and prayer by Rev. Benjamin Bruce, after which they
proceeded to the house of Mr. Lewis Reed, joined by the clergy and
ladies, where they partook of an excellent collation prepared for the
occasion." June 27 — Ephraim II. Gatewood initiated, and on the 28th
passed to the " honorable degree of a Fellow Craft." June 3 — S. Garey
passed. Petition of James Williams received, and he initiated, and
E. H. Gatewood raised. July 27 — Stephen R. Rowan initiated. August
5 — Bro. Absalom Ashby demitted, and committee appointed to collect
dues, and pay off the debts of the Lodge. August 8 — Sundry bills
allowed. Settlement had with Bro. Ashby as Secretary. Rev. J. C.
Alexander voted ten dollars for services as Chaplain on St. John's Day.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 118
Petition of Thos. J. Lindsey received, and twenty dollars voted Bro.
Wm. J. Gatewood, " in view of his recent misfortune." August 10 — Thos.
J. Lindsey initiated. The following letter was drawn up by Wm. J.
Gatewood, and forwarded to the Grand Lodge of Kentucky :
" EQUALITY LODGE U. D., \
SATURDAY, Aug. 5, A. I). 1837, A. L. 5837. J
"Philip Swigert, O. Sec. O, L. of Kentucky:
"SiR ;— Accompanying this communication please receive the return of Equality
Lodge U. D., held in Equality, Gallatin county, State of Illinois.
" It will be perceived from the return that since the 7th of April last, the date
of the installation of this Lodge, many new members have been made, and much
business done, and that with almost unprecedented rapidity ; but I am instructed
to say that this appearance will not, it is hoped, prejudice the application of this
Lodge to the G. L. of Kentucky for a charter.
"The long suspension of almost all Lodges in the western country from labor,
occasioned by a circumstance occurring several years since in one of the eastern
States, and well known to Masons, has just so long left many friendly to Masonry
without the means of becoming members until the opening of this Lodge; and
it is believed that this will furnish a sufficient apology, if any be needed, for the
celerity with which work has been done here.
" I am instructed also to state that in every instance of a deviation from the
bye-laws, they have been formally and by unanimous vote dispensed with; and,,
also, that in all the cases of new members, they have long been intimately-
acquainted with the elders ; and, further, that in almost every instance when the
bye-laws have been dispensed with, it has appeared to be a case of some emer-
gency.
" Not knowing whether it be necessary to send with this return a copy of the
bye-laws of this Lodge, it is not sent; but this Lodge works under a literal copy
of the bye-laws of Clinton Lodge No. 82, Kentucky.
"Accompanying this please also receive the dispensation of the G. L. of Ken-
tucky to this Lodge.
"Please also receive enclosed fifteen dollars for the dispensation, and balance
remitted for charter of this Lodge.
"I am also instructed to make direct application to the G. L. of Kentucky, in
this mode, for a charter to this Lodge, by the name of Equality Lodge No. — .
" It is supposed the sum remitted will be sufficient, if not, the remainder will
be sent on the first notice.
" It would be acknowledged as a favor if you would inform the Secretary of
this Lodge what would be the probable cost of jewels, well made and reasonably
heavy, for a Master's Lodge.
" With sentiments of great respect, and due consideration, I am, respectfully,
your obedient servant,
" WM. J. GATEWOOD,
" Sec. Equality Lodge U. D.
"P. S.— This Lodge was installed April 7, 1837, by J. C. Weller, of Clinton Lodge
No. 82, Kentucky."
The Lodge was duly constituted as No. 102, on the twenty-second
September, 1837, by James C. Weller, D. G. M.
114 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
The Lodge from that time until the close of the year received three
petitions, viz.: Joseph Choisser, Joel Holliday, and Lorenzo D. Atkins.
Of these, Choisser was initiated November 4th. The twenty-seventh of
December was duly observed by partaking of dinner at the house of Bro.
Benjamin Lafferty. On this day officers were elected to serve the Lodge
for the ensuing six months, who were as follows : Arnold B. Dake, "W. M.;
A. W. Pool, S. \V.; Tarlton Dunn, J. W.; E. T. Hopper, Treasurer; Wm.
J. Gatewood, Secretary; W. H. Siddall and T. H. Leavell, Deacons; and
James Hamilton, Tyler. Bro. William F. Hewitt was demitted on the
fourth November.
CHAPTER XL
1838.
BODLEY LODGE No. 97.
During this year the following brethren were raised : John G. Driskill,
May 5 ; James Magorian, June 2 ; Joseph Kelly, June 25 ; W. S. Walton,
July 7; E. M. Davis was affiliated December 27.
The twenty-fourth of June was duly celebrated, the Lodge forming a
procession and proceeding to the Congregational Church, where an address
was delivered by J. H. Holton. From thence they proceeded to the
" Land Office Hotel, where dinner was duly served up." On their return
to the Lodge, John H. Holton was elected W. M.j J. N. Ralston, S. W.;
J. H. Luce, J. W.; A. Miller, Treasurer; Hiram Rogers, Secretary;
E. Turner, S. D.; T. Monroe, J. D.; Harrison Dills, Steward and Tyler.
At the meeting of October 3d, Breth. Asbury, Dills, Turner, and Luce
were appointed a committee to procure a "lot of ground" for the purpose
of building a lodge-room thereon; and it was resolved that they should
proceed immediately to build said hall.
November 3d, a petition from sundry brethren at Columbus, asking
a recommendation to their petition for a Lodge, was granted.
On the first of December, Martin Ladnor, J. W. Chenoweth, and
Joseph Kelly were expelled for taking leave without notifying their
creditors of their intention to do so. These brethren are fully described
in the record, and among other matters, Bro. Chenoweth was stated to
be by " occupation a blacksmith and Methodist." At the same meeting
Bro. Ralston introduced the following :
"Resolved, That it is expedient for this Lodge to relinquish its charter to the
Grand Lodge of Kentucky at its next annual communication."
Which was laid over to the next communication.
At the meeting of December 27th, the Building Committee reported
that a building 20 by 35 feet, two stories high, would cost sixteen hundred
116 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
dollars, and that they had subscriptions to the amount of $600. It was
decided not to proceed further during that season.
Bro. Ralston's resolution was laid over to January, 1839, when the
Lodge went into an election of officers, making choice of the following:
J. N. Ralston, W. M.; Hiram Rogers, S. W.; H. Dills, J. W.; J. H. Luce,
Sec.; T. Monroe and Enoch Conyers, Deacons; J. Woolf, Steward and
Tyler. No record appears of an election of Treasurer.
EQUALITY LODGE NO. 102.
The following were raised in this Lodge during the year : Joseph
Choisser, Jan. 10; Thomas J. Lindsey, Mar. 4; J. M. Burnett, June 2;
Samuel S. Scudder, June 6 ; James Bennett, June 21 ; A. Irvin, July 24.
Equality Lodge was the first to perform the ceremonies of laying a
corner-stone within the State of Illinois, and for this reason we give the
record concerning that act in full:
";EQUALITY LODGE No. 102, \
Feb. 19, A. D. 1838, A. L. 5838. j
"Present: A. B. Dake, W. M.; A. \V. Pool, S. W.; T. Dunn, J. W.; W. J. Gate-
wood, Secretary ; L. W. Hargrave, Treasurer, p. t.; J. E. Watkins, 8. D., p. t.; T.
H. Leavell, J. D.; J. Hamilton, Tyler; S. Scudder, Entered Apprentice.
" The Lodge opened in the first degree of Masonry, and on motion, ordered
that Bro. T. Dunn, Gatewood, and Pool report arrangements with officers for
the celebration of laying the corner-stone of the public work at Shawneetown,
on the 24th inst., which was adopted as follows :
" Bro. J. E. Watkins, Marshal ; E. H. Gatewood, Assistant Marshal ; Edward
Jones, Orator; Rev. B. F. Spilman, Chaplain. Edward Leavell, William Burnett,
Willis Hargrave, bearers of corn, wine, and oil; Bro. Lee Hargrave and Ed. Dob-
bins, Stewards White Rod ; Jos. Choisser and Lee Hargrave, Black Rod.
" The Lodge then closed in this degree, and opened in the third in regular
form, when the Worshipful Master called off until Friday, the 23d inst., at 8
o'clock, at Shawneetown.
"SHAWNEETOWN, Feb. 23d, A. D. 1838, A. L. 5838.
"The Lodge was called from refreshment to labor.
"Present: A. B. Dake, W. M.; W. J. Gatewood. S. W., p. t. and Sec.; W. Hewett,
J. W. and Treas., p. t; I. D. Towles, S. and J. D., p. t.; J. Hamilton, Tyler; A.
Flanders, Master Mason.
" The Lodge was then called from labor to refreshment until to-morrow at 11
o'clock, at the lodge-room in Shawneetown.
" SHAWNEETOWN, Feb. 24, 1838, A. L. 5838.
"Present: A. B. Dake, W. M.; A. W. Pool, S. W.; Visiting Bro. Calvin Gold,
J. W., p. t.; W. J. Gatewood, Sec.; R. T. Hopper, Treas.; Wm. Burnett, S. D., p. t;
I. D. Towles, J. D.,p. t.; Visiting Breth. A. Kirkpatrick, Jno. Marshall, and Bro.
Edward Savill, bearers of corn, wine, and oil ; Bro. J. Choisser and visiting Bro.
Anderson, of Ohio, Stewards with Black Rods ; Bros. Flanders, Towles, and
Hewitt, M. M., and Bennett, E. A., Musicians; E. H. Gatewood, Marshal; L.
White, Bearer of the Bible ; Bro. F. Crafts Lindsy and Geary ; Bros. E. A. William
Choisser, S. Scudder, and Jno. M. Burnett.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 117
"After forming, the procession proceeded to the upper end of the work, and
there laid the corner-stone of the public work in due and ancient form, after which
they repaired to the hotel of Mr. Wagoner, in Shawneetown, and partook of an ex-
cellent repast prepared for the occasion. The Lodge then proceeded to the lodge-
room in Shawneetown, and called from labor to refreshment, to meet at the
lodge-room in Equality, on Feb. 26th, 1838."
March 3d, Daniel F. Boswell was expelled. His description, like
those of B )dley Lodge, appears in full upon the record. He is described as
"neat in dress, handsome in visage, quick spoken, rather forward, and
not very learned" etc.
" Bro. William Siddall demitted June 16.
"June 2i, Bro. Dake was re-elected W. M., there being no opposition;
for Senior Warden there were two candidates, " Bro. T. Dunn receiving
8 votes to 1 for Bro. Pool ;" T. Levell was elected J. W.; E. Jones, Sec'y ;
R. T. Hopper, Treasurer; J. E. Watkins and S. S. Scudder, Deacons;
T. J. Lindsey, Tyler. July 24th, Bro. H. Wilson was admitted.
" On the 27th December, Bro. A. W. Pool was elected W. M.; Thomas
H. Levell, S. W.; James W. Hamilton, J. W.; Robert T. Hopper, Secre-
tary; William Siddall, Treasurer; J. E. Watkins and S. S. Scudder,
Deacons ; and J. T. Lindsey, Tyler.
TEMPERANCE LODGE.
On the 30th day of June, a dispensation was granted to Breth. William
Hodge as Master, John D. Gorin as Senior Warden, and Nathaniel M.
McCurdy as Junior Warden, to open and hold Temperance Lodge, at
Vandjdia. The Lodge did no work under this dispensation, and at the
meeting of the Grand Lodge of Missouri, held in October, it was re-
newed. The first dispensation was signed by John D. Daggett, D. G.
M., attested by Richard B. Dallam, Grand Secretary. The second, which
was dated October 3d, was granted to the same officers, and was signed
by the same grand officers. The Lodge did no work during the year
1838.
COLUMBUS LODGE.
The record of the preliminary meeting of this Lodge we present en-
tire :
"At a meeting of the following brethren of the Masonic family,
held in Columbus, October 19th, 1838, present: Lytle Griffing, Daniel
Harrison, Stephen Tousalin, John G. Driskill, Anthony Tousalin, S. H.
B. Clarkson, James McGorian, John Neal, A. Jonas.
" Bro. S. H. B. Clarkson was appointed Chairman, and Bro. A. Jonas,
Secretary.
" On motion,
" Resoloed, That an application be made to the Grand Lodge of Missouri, for a
dispensation for a Lodge in Columbus, to be called Columbus Lodge, Adams
118 HISTOKY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS.
county, Illinois, and that a committee of three be appointed to carry the same
into effect— and that Bros. Harrison, Jonas, and Griffing be said committee.
"Resolved, That A.Jonas be recommended as the first Master; Daniel Harrison
as the first Senior Warden, and J. G. Driskill, as the first Junior Warden of said
Lodge.
"Resolved, That application be made to the Quincy Lodge at their next meet-
ing, for recommendation to the Grand Lodge of Missouri, of the petition for a
dispensation, and that Bros. Harrison, McGorian, Driskill, Griffing, S. and A.
Tousalin be a committee to attend to the same.
"Resolved, That Bros. Griffing, Driskill, and Jonas be a committee to consult
with Mr. Ledder Davis on the subject of a lodge-room, and report to-morrow
evening, the 20th instant.
"Resolved, That each one of the petitioners for a dispensation agree to lend
the new Lodge $10 each, to be repaid whenever the Lodge has the means of so
doing.
"Resolved, That the meeting adjourn to meet again to-morrow evening at the
same place. Attest.
"Agreeable to adjournment, the meeting convened on Saturday even-
ing. Present, Bros. Lytle Griffing, J. G. Driskill, A. Touzalin, D. Har-
rison, J. Neal and A. Jonas.
"And on motion,
" Daniel Harrison was appointed Chairman. The committee ap-
pointed to communicate with Mr. Ledder Davis, on the subject of a
lodge-room, reported that the room could be obtained at $7 per month,
and that the room should be finished in a proper manner, and the ex-
pense be deducted out of rent.
"Ordered, That same committee enter into contract in writing with Mr. Davis
to that effect.
"It was further resolved that the same committee have full power and
authority, after the contract is made, to have the work done and com-
pleted on the best terms, and at the most reasonable rates.
"The meeting then adjourned, to meet on Wednesday evening.
"Attest."
Lytle Griffing was the first raised in Bodley Lodge, and in fact, all
but Harrison, Clarkson, and Jonas, were made in that Lodge. Daniel
Harrison was the first Master of Bodley Lodge. This Lodge was recom-
mended by Bodley Lodge on the 3rd of November. The dispensation
was not received until the 6th of June of the following year, conse-
quently this Lodge did no work during 1838.
HARMONY LODGE NO. 24.
This Lodge was constituted on the 30th day of November, 1838, as the
following certificate will show:
"JACKSONVILLE.
" To the Most Worshipful Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, and Wardens of
the Grand Lodge of Missouri :
"In obedience to a deputation from the Most Worshipful Grand Master, em-
powering me as Deputy Grand Master for the time being, to install the officers
of Harmony Lodge No. 21, Jacksonville, I did on the 30th day of November, A.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 119
D. 1838, A. L. 5838, proceed to and did install Bro. Jno. T.Jones, as Master; W. B.
Warren, Sr. Warden; A. Dunlap, Jr. Warden; D.Rockwell, Sec'y.; M. Stacey,
Treas.; J. L. James, Sr. Deacon ; W. S. Vance, Jr. Deacon ; A. L. Dixon, S. and T.;
of said Harmony Lodge No. 24, in form after the ancient usages of the order.
"Given under my hand and private seal at Jacksonville, the
: „, . • day and date above written.
"W. B. WARREN,
"D. G. M. G. L. M.pro tern."
This Lodge held four meetings during the year 1838, the proceedings
of one of which have just been given. On December 3rd the Lodge met,
when Bro. John Gregory, a Fellow Craft, was raised. Dennis Rockwell
was elected Secretary, and Matthew Stacy, Treasurer, James L. James
and William S. Vance were appointed Deacons.
December 27th, the Lodge again met and opened on the first degree.
An address was delivered by the W. M., "much to the edification and
instruction of those present." An election was then held, resulting as
follows : John T. Jones, W. M.,- Wm. B. Warren, S. W.; Alex. Dunlap,
J. W.; Dennis Rockwell, Secretary; Mat. Stacy, Treasurer; A. C. Dick-
son, Tyler. Breth. James and Vance were re-appointed Deacons, and
Vance and H. W. Osburn were elected Stewards. Petition of James T.
Sigler, for affiliation, was received. Bro. Stacy was directed to procure
"two dozen white. Lambskin aprons, and two turned collums."
December 28, Bro. Wm. D. McCord was passed and raised.
FAR WEST LODGE.
December 29th, 1838, the following petition was forwarded to the
Grand Lodge of Missouri :
" GALENA, 29th Dec., A. L., 5838.
•' To the Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Mo. : .
" We, the undersigned brethren residing in the town of Galena, Jo Daviess
county, State of Illinois, are desirous of forming ourselves into a Lodge of 'An-
cient York Masons,' to be styled and known by the name of 'Far We*.,' and
must beg of you to lay this our petition before the Worshipful Master, Wardens
and members of the Grand Lodge of Mo., and pray them to grant us a charter
in the names of Charles Gear, W. M.; Edward W. Turner, S. W.; Samuel McLean,
120 HISTORY OP MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
J. W. As there is no Lodge in this place or district of country, we must refer
you to Bro. Wm. Hempstead, of St. Louis.
" Permit us to subscribe ourselves, yours fraternally,
"CHARLES GEAR,
E. W. TURNER,
SAM. MCLEAN,
T. B. FARNSWORTH,
J. E. SMITH,
A. T. CROW,
H. H. GEAR,
DAN'L. WANN,
GEO. M. MITCHELL,
M. F. AULETT,
CAPT. JOHN CLARK,
RICH'D. PATTISON,
SAMUEL SMOKER,
JOHN SHERMAN,
JOHN S. WEBER."
Two of the names on this petition are familiar, Charles and H. H.
Gear, who were both members of Olive Branch Lodge No. 5.
This Lodge did no work during the year 1838.
CHAPTER XII.
1839.
BODLEY LODGE NO. 97.
The members raised by this Lodge during this year, were as follows :
H. F. Main, Sept. 3rd; H. F.Thompson, Sept. 30th; F. G. Johnston, and
John Crockett, Dec. 14th.
At the meeting of January 5th, a motion was made to adopt Bro. Ral-
ston's resolution regarding the surrender of the charter, but after much
discussion, it was laid over until the meeting in March. Bro. Asbury
was demitted Feb. 5th. March 6, Bro. Ralston's resolution to surrender
the charter was taken up and pressed to a vote, the result being 'Ayes,
3, iToes, 13." So ended that matter. At this meeting Bro. S. Tuslin
was demitted.
At the meeting of April 2, the question of building a hall was again
brought up, and a committee of five appointed to inquire into the
feasibility of the matter. Twenty dollars was voted the Trustees of the
Methodist Church, which leads us to believe that the room in the
"garret" was fitted up.
June 4th, the Committee on Building reported adversely to such
project, and reported that they had procured a suitable room in the
second story of Brother Most's two story building, " on the Square, at
$60." The by-laws were so amended at this meeting as to provide for
elections annually, " according to ancient usage."
June 24th, Breth. Harrison, Tuslin, and GrifSng were demitted to
assist in forming Columbus Lodge. Officers as follows were elected :
H. Rogers, "W. M. ; H. Dills, S. W.; E. M. Davis, J. W. ; A. Miller,
Treas. ; J. H. Luce, Sec'y ; T. Monroe and H. L. Simmons, Deacons ;
M. Most, Steward and Tyler. The following we quote: " Bro. Ralston
read a letter from Harmony Lodge No. 24, at Jacksonville, relative [to]
forming a Grand Lodge in this State. The following resolution was,
after some discussion, passed : Resolved, That we deem it expedient to
form a Grand Lodge in this State, and Bros. Ralston and Rogers were
122 HISTOEY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
appointed a committee to answer said letter on the subject of the Grand
Lodge."
August 17th, Bro. Louis Bigwood was demitted. Sept. 3d., Bro.
Asbury affiliated. December 2d, W. S. Walton expelled.
Notwithstanding the Lodge had resolved to elect officers for twelre
months, "according to ancient usage," on the 27th of December it went
into an election, which resulted in the choice of the following breth-
ren: J. N. Ralston, W. M.; H. Asbury, S. W. ; T. Monroe, J. W. ;
A. Miller, Treasurer; E. M. Davis, Secretary. -Bro. Holton was elected
Secretary, but was allowed to decline. In all this time it is perhaps
proper to say that all business was transacted in the first degree, and
the Lodge almost invariably met pursuant to adjournment.
EQUALITY LODGE NO. 102.
The work (raisings) done by this Lodge during this year was as fol-
lows : Beverly R. Young, Feb. 1; S. Gary, March 4; Solomon Holt,
Oct. 2: James Williams, Oct. 6 ; John Howard, Dec. 7.
The last meeting at which Bro. Dake was present was on August 4th,
and among the proceedings of the meeting of January 5th, 1839, we find
the following entry :
"Ordered, That Brother William Siddall be allowed twenty dollars and thirty-
seven cents for crape, etc.. furnished at the burial of deceased Brothers William
F. Hewitt and A. B. Dake."
This is the first intimation of the death of these brethren, there being
no record as to their death or their burial, previous to the entry quoted.
May 4th, Bro. Scudder was allowed one dollar for " trimming the
bier of deceased Brother A. B. Dake."
On the 17th of May the officers elected in December, 1838, for six
months, were installed.
June 13th, Moses Thompson, an Entered Apprentice, was expelled.
June 24th, the following officers were elected : A. W. Pool, W. M. ;
Thos. H. Leavell (or Levell), S. W.; Jas. W. Hamilton, J. W.: William
Siddall, Treas.; R. T. Hopper, Sec.,- J. E. Watkins and S. S. Scudder,
Deacons ; Thomas J. Lindsey, Tyler. The day was then properly
celebrated.
July 6th, Breth. Siddall, Leavell, and Hamilton were appointed a
committee to settle a difficulty between Brethren Dunn and Hopper.
July 20th, a request was received from the " Bank of Illinois," at
Shawneetown, asking the Lodge to lay the corner-stone of their "new
banking house," which was done " according to ancient form." Bro.
Wm. J. Gatewood delivered the oration on that occasion.
On the 17th of October, "Brother Matthew Hammond, aged about 35
years, a member of Trinity Lodge No. 37, New York," having died, was
buried with Masonic honors.
HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 123
November 19th, the following resolution was passed :
"Resolved, That a committee [consisting] of Brothers William J. Gatewood,
Edmund Jones, and Tarlton Dunn, be appointed to correspond with all the sub-
ordinate Lodges of this State, with a view to reorganizing the Grand Lodge of
the State of Illinois."
December 27th, the officers for the ensuing six months were elected,
which resulted in the choice of the following brethren : Harrison
Wilson, W. M. ; Edmund Jones, S. W. ; Jas. W. Hamilton, J. W.; Solo-
mon Holt, Secretary; William Siddall, Treas.; Thos. J. Lindsey and
B. C. Crow, Deacons ; Beverly R. Young, Tyler. The day was observed,
the Lodge partaking of dinner at the house of Brother Leave!!. Bro.
Crow was admitted on the 5th of August. On December 7th Breth.
Lindsey, Scudder, and Young asked demits, which were granted. Bro.
Holt asked for a demit at the same meeting, which was refused. These
demits did not seem to have affected the relations of the brethren to
the Lodge to any great degree, as at the next meeting three of the
brethren were elected to offices, and there is no record of their having
been re-admitted.
HARMONY LODGE NO. 24.
January 7th, petition of John E. Denny received and referred.
February 4th, Bro. J. T. Sigler affiliated. At this meeting the fol-
lowing was passed : " On motion, it was voted that twenty dollars be
appropriated out of the funds of this Lodge for the relief of a Mr.
Elder, a poor person, who has had the misfortune to have his legs
broken." In addition to this appropriation, an individual subscription
was taken, which resulted in the collection of ten dollars, there being
ten brethren present. March 4th, Breth. Francis Robertson and Clark
Roberts were affiliated, and Bro. Osburn demitted.
March llth, Josiah M. Lucas was initiated, and on the 10th of June
passed. At the regular meeting in September (no date given), Cornelius
Ludlum was initiated, and petition of A. V. Putnam referred. The
Lodge held no further meetings until after the session of the Grand
Lodge in October.
SPRINGFIELD LODGE NO. 26.
January 27th the following brethren signed a petition addressed to the
Grand Lodge of Missouri, asking for a dispensation to open and hold a
Lodge at Springfield, viz. : "J. Adams, late a member of the Lodge at
Skaneatles, N. Y., No. not recollected ; James R. Gray, late a member of
Vesper Lodge, Ky. ; Alex'r Lindsay, late a member of Star Lodge No.
197, Pennsylvania; Henry Colestock, Perseverance Lodge No. 21, Ilar-
risburg, Pa. ; Philo Beers, Montgomery Lodge, N. Y. : L. S. Corn well,
Lodge No. 73, of Bowling Green, Ky. ; Martin Doyle, Lodge No. 39,
124 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS
Ireland; J. R. Braucher, Lodge No. 33, Circleville, Ohio; Bela "Webster,
Whitesboro Lodge, N. Y., No. 315; James Maxcy, Lodge No. 73,
Bowling Green, Ky." This petition being duly recommended by
Harmony Lodge No. 24, a dispensation, bearing date February 25,
1839, and signed by S. W. B. Carnegy, Grand Master, attested by Richard
B. Dallam, Grand Secretary, was issued. Brother Adams was named as
Master ; James R. Gray, Senior, and Alexander Lindsay, Junior Warden.
Bro. Adams was a visitor at the Grand Lodge of Illinois, in 1826, and
Bro. Beers was a charter member of Eden Lodge No. 11.
The minutes of the first meeting of this Lodge we give in full.
"At a meeting of Master, Wardens, and Brethren of Springfield Lodge, No. —
held at the "American House," on Saturday evening, April 20th, A. D. 1839, A. L.
6839.
" Opened on the Master's degree.
" Brethren present : JAMES ADAMS, W. M.
JAMESR. GRAY, S. W.
ALEXANDER LINDSAY, J. W."
" M. Doyle, James Maxcy, Samuel L. Hesser, James Zwisler, Jr., Joseph Firey,
M. A. Kelly, Wm. Cudmore, and Love S. Cornwell.
" Bro. James Adams, M. in the chair.
"On motion of Bro. A. Lindsay,
" Resolved, That the members present now organize, so far as to elect their
officers for the ensuing year.
"On motion of Bro. Firey,
"That the officers bo elected viva voce.
" Whereupon the following were elected unanimously:
" LOVE S. CORNWELL, Secretary.
MAURICE DOYLE, Treasurer.
JAMES MAXCY, Tyler.
" And appointed by the W. M. :
"PHILO BEERS, S. D.
WM. CUDMORE, J. D.
M. HELM, 1st M. C.
M. A. KELLY. 2d M. C.
"On motion of Bro. Lindsay,
"Resolved, That we invite Bro. Helm to install the officers of this Lodge.
" On motion of Bro. Gray,
"That we meet Thursday evening (25th inst,) at half past 6 o'clock, for the
purpose of installing the officers.
"On motion, adjourned.
" J. ADAMS, Master.
" L. S. CORJTWELL, Secretary."
The brethren raised by this Lodge during the year are as follows :
John S. Killaly, Oct. 29th; Josiah Wickersham, Nov. 14th; J. S.
Roberts, Nov. 18th. April 25th, the officers were duly installed by Bro.
Meredith Helm. On the 13th May, Breth. W. Harvey and W. W. Wat-
son were present as visitors, also Bro. John Uhler, of Friendship Lodge,
HISTORY OP MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 125
Maryland. July 25th, Bro. Uhler was affiliated, and is, we believe, the
only member now living who was present at that meeting, with the ex-
ception of Bro. Maxcy. Oct. 28th, the Lodge was duly constituted, the
following brethren being present : A. B. Chambers, G. M.; \V"m. B. War-
ren, D. G. M.; Wm. S. Vance, S. G. W.; M. Helm, J. G. W.; M. J. Kelley,
S. G. D.; W. Cudmore, J. G. D.; James Zwisler, Gr. Tyler; James Adams,
James R. Gray, J. R. Braucher, Joseph Firey, B. C. Webster, S. L. Hesser,
J. Wickersham, W. Briggs, J. S. Killaly, and J. F. Reed.
On the record of November 18th, we find the following entry :
"On motion, Bros. Helm, Adams and Lindsay were appointed a com-
mittee to represent this Lodge at a convention of the Lodges of this State,
to be holden in Jacksonville, on the 27th day of December proximo, for
the purpose of conferring together as to the propriety of establishing a
Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois, and determining the place of hold-
ing the same."
December 25th, Bro. W. Harvey was admitted, and the following list
of officers elected : M. Helm, Master ; A. Lindsay, S. W.; J. Adams,
J. W.; M. Doyle, Treas.; L. S. Cornwell, Sec.; James Maxcy, Tyler.
These officers were then installed and the following appointed : M. J.
Kelly and J. S. Killaly, Deacons ; Wm. Harvey and J. R. Braucher,
first and second Masters of Ceremonies.
A committee of five was appointed to procure a silver cup, to cost not
less than twenty dollars, which was to be presented to Bro. Adams as a
"token of respect and esteem."
TEMPERANCE LODGE No. 27.
We present the minutes of the first meeting entire :
"At a meeting of Temperance Lodge, under dispensation of the Grand
Lodge of Missouri, held at their lodge-room at Vandalia, Illinois, on
Thursday, the 10th day of January, A. L. 5839, A. D. 1839—
" Present : Wm. Hodge, W. M.; John D. Gorin, S. W.; N. M. McCurdy,
J. W.; R. K. McLaughlin, Treas., p. L: Wm. Prentiss, Sec., p. t.; Thos.
B. Hiclcman, S. D., p. t.; Moses Philips, J. D., p. t., and Tyler, p. t.;
Breth. Thomas C. Kirkman and Asahel Lee, M. M.; visiting brethren —
James Adams, M. M., late of Schenatalus Lodge No. — , N. Y.; Alvan
Washburn, M. M., late of Miami Lodge No. 46, Ohio; W. McFarlane,
M. M., of Franklin Lodge No. 22, Alton, Missouri; W. J. Gatewood,
M. M., of Lodge No. — , Equality, Illinois; James M. Duncan, M. M.,
late of Lodge No. — , Vandalia, Illinois.
"The Lodge was opened in the first degree of Masonry, according to
ancient form.
" The Worshipful Master laid before the Lodge a dispensation from the
Most Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of Missouri, together with a com-
126 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
munieation from the Grand Secretary enclosing the same, which were
read and ordered to be filed and recorded.
"The Worshipful stated briefly the proceedings by which the dispen-
sation had been procured.
"On motion of Bro. Prentiss,
"Ordered, That a committee of three be appointed to report rules for the gov-
ernment of this Lodge, and that Breth. Prentiss, Gorin, and McCurdy be that
committee.
" No further business appearing in this degree, the Lodge was closed,
and opened in the second degree, and after some time spent in a lecture,
the Lodge was closed in due order and harmony, at 8 o'clock P. M."
The raisings reported by this Lodge during this year are as follows:
Henry C. Remann, April 11; David B. Ifodge, April 17; C. B. Block-
burgher, June 4; James M. Peery, July 10; Asa Dilley, June 5; Willard
T. Hopkins, June 12; John S. Bradford, November 16; A. Bourland,
November 28. Bro. Samuel Winterode was admitted August 12. Bro.
Asa Dilley was demitted.
The minutes from which we are now extracting the information
regarding this Lodge, are the neatest we have ever seen, and were
written by William C. Greenup, formerly of Western Star Lodge, whom
we had lost sightofsilicel829.
The record (we allude above to the original record sent us by Bro,
Gouley) seems to have been written by the Master (Bro. Hodge) himself;
it is quite neat, but crowded all together.
At the meeting of February 18, Bro. Thomas Moore, "late of Eden..
Lodge," was present as a visitor. The following resolution was passed :
"Rcxolved, That this Lodge will not receive petitions for initiation or ballot
thereon in any other than the third degree."
At the meeting of June 3, Breth. Jacob C. Bruner, o'f Franklin Lodge;
Harry Wilton, of the late Lodge No. — , at Carly le, Illinois, and Nathaniel
Buckmaster, late of Libanus Lodge No. 29, were visiting/-
We are inclined to the opinion that Illion Lodge, of which it is im-
possible to find any trace, was located at Carlyle. f^Hiram Lodge, we
have good reason to believe, was located at Brownsville.
At the meeting of June 4^Mathew Duncan, " late of the Western Star
Lodge No. 107," Kaskaskia, Illinois, and Guy W. Smith, "late R. W.
Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Illinois," were visiting. Bro. Smith
was Master of a Lodge at Palestine in 1825, and was probably elected
Grand Master of the Grand Lodge at its last meeting in 1827, of which
meeting we have no record.
At the meeting of June 10, we find the following entry:
" The Worshipful Master laid before the Lodge a communication from
a committee of Harmony Lodge No. 24, at Jacksonville, Illinois, on the
HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 127
subject of forming a Grand Lodge in this State, which was read, and on
motion, ordered to be laid upon the table."
July 8th, the communication was taken from the table, and referred
to Breth. Gorin, McCurdy, and McLaughlin.
September 9th, the following action was hadj
" On motion of Bro. Greenup, the following resolution was offered and
adopted :
"•Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to prepare a memorial or
address to the several Lodges held in this State, inviting them to send delegates
to a Masonic Convention, to be held at Vaadalia, on the 27th day of December
next, for the purpose of forming a Grand Lodge for the State of Illinois, and
report the same to this Lodge, at the adjourned meeting, to be held on Friday
next.
" Whereupon, Breth. Greenup, Hickman, and Lee were appointed that
committee."
November llth, the Lodge was constituted under charter as No. 27J
and at the same meeting the following was adopted, " Bro. Asahel Lee
being in the chair":
" The committee to whom was referred the resolution 'to correspond
with the several Lodges held in this State, inviting them to send dele-
gates to a Masonic Convention, to be held at Vandalia, on the 27th
December next, for the purpose of forming a Grand Lodge for the State
of Illinois,' asked to be discharged from the further consideration thereof;
and the Bro. Worshipful moved that Vandalia be stricken out, and
Jacksonville be inserted instead thereof. Agreed to. The chair appointed
Bro. Worshipful a committee of one to perform the duties of the above
named committee, and was also appointed a delegate to the convention
to be held at Jacksonville, on the 27th December next."
December 8th, the following officers were elected : Wm. Hgdge, W. M.;
N. M. McCurdy, S. W.; T. B. Hickman, J. W.; A. Washburn, Treas.;
D. B. Hodge, Sec.; II. C. Reraann and W. T. Hopkins, Deacons; and
John S. Bradford, Tyler.
December 27th, the officers were installed, and the day celebrated.
FAR WEST LODGE NO. 29.
The first meeting is as follows :
" GALENA, March 23, A. L. 5839.
" Meeting of Far West Lodge pursuant to notice.
"Present: Brothers Charles Gear, W. M.; E. W. Turner, S. W.;
Dan'l Wann, J. W., pro tern.: A. T. Crow, S. D. ; II. H. Gear, J. D. ;
Geo. M. Mitchell, Treas., pro tern.; J. E. Smith, Secretary; M. Faucet,
Tyler; Brothers John Sherman, Samuel Smoker, C. P. Burrows, Rich'd
Pattison, J. C. Legate, E. F. Ogden.
" Lodge opened in due form on the first degree of Masonry.
128 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
" Brother E. F. Ogden presented the letter of dispensation from the
Grand Lodge of Missouri, which being read, it was moved that it he
received and worked under.
" Brothers A. T. Crow, Dan'l Wann, and E. W. Turner appointed a
committee to draft a constitution and by-laws for the government of the
Lodge.
" Brothers Geo. M. Mitchell, A. T. Crow, and H. H. Gear appointed a
committee to procure suitable furniture and implements.
"Brother J. E. Smith was requested to procure the jewels for the
Lodge.
" On motion it was
"Resolved, That the thanks of the Lodge be tendered to Brother E. F. Ogden
for his attention in procuring a dispensation for this Lodge, and furthermore,
that he be admitted a member of this Lodge free of the usual admittance fee.
" On motion, the Lodge adjourned until Friday evening, the 29th inst."
The following are the names signed to the by-laws of this Lodge :
Charles Gear, E. W. Turner, Sam'l McLean, A. T. Crow, H. II. Gear,
J. E. Smith, T. P. Farnsworth, M. Faucet, T. C. Legate, Geo. M. Mitchell,
Dan'l Wann, Richard Pattison, Samuel Smoker, John Sherman, J. Clark,
R. Thompson, E. F. Ogden, C. P. Burrows.
The Lodge conferred the Master's degree upon the following brethren
during the year 1839 : A. J. Jackson, June 22; John Turney, Aug. 31 ;
John M. Stanley, Sept. 2.
There is nothing in the minutes of this Lodge for 1839 to merit any
special note.
MOUNT MORIAH LODGE NO. 33.
On the 26th of July a petition signed by a number of brethren asking
for a dispensation to open a Lodge at Hillsboro, to be called Mount
Mori ah, was recommended by Temperance Lodge U. D., at Vandalia.
The names signed to this petition are : " C. B. Blockburger, of Temper-
ance Lodge U. D., Illinois; M. P. Nicholson, of Mount Moriah Lodge
No. 27, N. C. ; Martin Kinsley, Union Lodge No. 10, North Providence,
R. I.; Hail Kingsley, Washington Lodge No. 3; Aaron Knapp, Homer,
N. Y., 137; M. L. Stinson, Vale of Tempe No. 45, Tenn.; Stephen
Abbott, Genessee Union No. 332; Harry Wilton, of Eden Lodge No. 7,
last W. M."
The dispensation was granted August 17th, 1839, and is signed by
"A. B. Chambers, G. S. W.," attested by " Rich'd B. Dallam, Gr. Sec'y."
In this dispensation C. B. Blockburger was named as Master; Hail
Kingsley, S. W., and Martin Kinsley, J. W. Bro. Blockburger was
raised in Temperance Lodge.
The first meeting of which we have any record is August 31, which
seems to be an adjourned meeting. The minutes of the first are not in
HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 129
our possession. The raisings reported by this Lodge are as follows:
Allan Carriker, Oct. 2; H. P. Gay, Oct. 3; J. H. Ralston, Nov. 30;
Joseph Brookfield, Dec. 14; Jacob Lingofelter and Nicodemus Brown,
Dec. 27.
The dispensation under which this Lodge labored was renewed at the
meeting of the Grand Lodge of Missouri in 1839.
COLUMBUS LODGE.
The dispensation for this Lodge was gran ted by Bro. S. W. B. Carnegy,
Grand Master, and was dated June 3d, 1839; naming Breth. Abraham
Jonas, Master; Daniel Harrison, S. W., and John G. Driskill, J. W.
The following letter from Bro. Carnegy accompanied the dispensa-
tion :
" PALMYRA, 3d JUNE, 1839.
" To Bros. Jonas, Harrison, Driskill, Clarkson, Neil, Touzalin, Touzalin, McGorian.
and Griffin, petitioners for a dispensation to form a Lodge at Columbus Ills., <tc.
" GENTLEMEN : — The dispensation for which you have petitioned is herewith
enclosed, and I avail myself at the same time of this opportunity to express to
you my brothers, and through you to those who may in future be associated
with you in the glorious undertaking in which you have embarked, the very
heartfelt pleasure which I have in contributing my little aid for the advance-
ment of the ancient fraternity of Masons. Allow me, my brothers, at the same
time to express my great solicitude for the honor and happiness of the Craft.
Those that bear the high honor of being members among those who have entered
into covenant with the fraternity, passed the square, and seen suspended the
initial of the name of our celestial G. M., and been raised to the honor of bearing
the emblem of power, and of using the trowel— those, permit me to say, should
be holy, harmless, and undefiled. Having separated themselves from the com-
mon mass of men, and taken their stand in front ranks of those who would be
useful, charitable, and moral, let me urge you by every consideration, the honor
of the name of Mason — the claims of our fellow men upon us, for examples of
charity, frugality, temperance, fortitude, justice and patriotism — by our high and
holy origin — our honorable connections here, and our glorious destiny here-
after— to guard well the entering in of the sanctuary, and house of Masonry. Let
no one that is immoral, or in the least degree predisposed to intemperance, so-
much as enter even the outer courts of your glorious temple. There are but-
very few in the world worthy of a knowledge of our art, and there ought to be
but few Masons, therefore, and so long as we are but. few in number, and consist
of the true, the moral, and temperate, we are safe, and may be happy. The best
evidence of speedy ruin to any Lodge, is that they increase very fast — that they
are very numerous.
" Hoping that none but the worthy will ever receive from your Lodge admis-
sion into our mysteries, and that you may now in this far western hemisphere
and newly settled country, in this favored region, far removed from the storm of
anti-Masonry which has with so much bigotry, hatred, and zeal swept over the
eastern Lodges, so lay the foundation of the edifice, deep and strong, that in
due time we may "bring forth the cape stone with shouting and praise," that we
—9
130 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
may receive the appellation of "good Master" each for himself, that may at last
in that character "lay aside the level and plumb-line, the gavel and trowel, the
compass and square," and be greeted and welcomed to the Temple of God, not
made with hands, eternal in the heavens, is the anxious wish of your friend and
brother.
(Signed.) "S. W. B. CARNEGY."
The record of the first meeting, aside from the letter just given, is
of no more than ordinary interest.
" Breth. J. S. Logan, Nov. 23d, M. S. Uudnall and A. J. Short, Dec. 30th,
were raised during the year 1839.
The following action was taken on the 22d June:
"A communication was produced by the W. M. from the Jacksonville
• Lodge of Illinois, on the subject of the formation of a Grand Lodge for
this State, which having been read, was referred to a committee of the
W. Master, Treasurer, and Junior Deacon."
The committee were Breth. Jonas, W. D. McCann, and J. Magorian.
July 27th, the committee reported as follows :
"The committee on the Jacksonville communication reported that they agree
in opinion with their brethren of Harmony Lodge, as to the propriety of form-
ing a Grand Lodge for the State of Illinois, and your committee trust that on
that subject, so important to the interests of Masonry, there will be no diver-
sity of opinion among the Craft. At the same time, your committee would
suggest, that the final location of the Grand Lodge should be determined on
by the delegates from different Lodges, after consultation on the subject. Your
committee believe that Jacksonville would be a favorable point for the first
meeting and organization of the Grand Lodge, but differ with the members
of Harmony Lodge as to the time of the meeting — the 27th of December is an
unpleasant season of the year for traveling, and your committee believe that
but few could be induced to attend at Jacksonville at that time, and your com-
mittee believe that the meeting should either take place earlier in the fall, or
postponed until next spring.
" Entertaining those views, your committee would recommend the adoption
of the following resolutions:
" Resolved, That this Lodge approve of the views expressed by their commit-
tee, and will co-operate with the other Lodges of this State in the design of
forming a Grand Lodge, and will appoint delegates to the same, as soon as the
time and place is determined on.
" Resolved, That the Secretary transmit to Harmony Lodge No. 24, a copy of
this report and resolutions.
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
(Signed) " A. JONAS, 1
W. D. McCANN, V Committee"
JAS. MAGORIAN. J
From a report made to Springfield Lodge Xo. 4 (which is given below),
we learn that on the 27th December, 1839, a convention was held at
Jacksonville, to take into consideration the subject of the formation of a
Grand Lodge. The report is here given :
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 131
"The committee appointed to attend the Masonic convention at Jacksonville,
•on 27th December, 1839, respectfully report:
"That they attended the sittings of the convention, and participated in its
deliberations, at the time and place appointed. There was not a general attend-
ance of delegates from the different Lodges of the State, though letters were
read from nearly all not represented, approving of the object of the convention.
After consultation it was unanimously determined that a Grand Lodge should
be formed for the State of Illinois. The first Monday of April next was fixed
upon as the day for the assembling of another convention at Jacksonville, when
it is expected the Lodges generally will be represented, the place for the per-
manent location of the Grand Lodge will be selected, the officers elected, and
the Grand Lodge finally constituted.
"All which is respectfully submitted
(Signed) " M. HELM, ")
A. LINDSEY, Y Committee."
J. ADAMS. J
CHAPTER XIII.
1840.
GRAND LODGE.
It will be remembered that the delegates of Springfield Lodge re-
ported that the convention of Dec. 27, 1839, had adjourned to the first
Monday in April, 1840, then to meet and organize the Grand Lodge. For
some reason not now apparent, the convention assembled on the 20th
January, A. D. 1840, when the following proceedings were had :
"At a convocation of Masons composed of delegates from several of
the subordinate Lodges in Illinois, held in Masonic hall, in the town of
Jacksonville, on the 20th day of January, A. D. 1840, A. L. 5840, it was
unanimously
"Resolved. That it is expedient and proper that a Grand Lodge for the State
of Illinois be established upon principles consistent with, and subordinate to
the general regulations and ancient constitutions of Freemasonry, and that
Bros. W. B. Warren and W. S. Vance of Jacksonville, and J. Adams and M.
Helm, of Springfield, be a committee to correspond with the several Lodges in
this State and ask their co-operation and assistance, and request their attend-
ance by representative or proxy, at a convocation to be holden at Jacksonville,
on the 6th day of April, A. D. 1840, A L. 5840, for the purpose of discussing the
propriety of establishing a Grand Lodge for the State of Illinois, and deter-
mining the best place for locating the same."
In regard to this matter, Bodley Lodge took the following action:
"It was moved by Bro. Holton, that the "W. Waster and Wardens be
our representives to the convention of Lodges to be held in Jacksonville,
on the first Monday in April next, relative to forming a Grand Lodge
in this State. It was then moved that Bro. Luce and Secretary [E. M.
Davis] be a committee to correspond with the other Lodges on the sub-
ject of forming a Grand Lodge in this State."
The action in Equality Lodge was as follows :
"Ordered, That John T. Jones, of Jacksonville, 111., be appointed proxy for this
Lodge in the convention of Masons, to be held in this State, and that he be
requested to vote, as such proxy, for the town of Springfield, as the place of hold-
ing the meetings of a Grand Lodge in this State."
Rather queer that, asking a brother to represent a Lodge, and then to
vote against his own town.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 133
Temperance Lodge took no action regarding the matter. Springfield
Lodge passed the following:
"On motion, the W. M., Sr. and Jr. Wardens were appointed a com-
mittee to attend the adjourned convention that met in Jacksonville on
the 27th December last, and Bros. Gray, Webster, and Killaly were
apointed to fill any vacancy which may occur in said committee."
Columbus Lodge passed the following :
" A letter from the brethren of Jacksonville Lodge, respecting the
formation of a Grand Lodge for the State of Illinois, was read, and
ordered to be filed, when Bro. Chapman offered the following resolutions,
which were accepted :
"Resolved, By the Columbus Lodge, that the W. Master and Wardens be and
hereby are a committee to attend a meeting of delegates from the several Lodges
of this State, at Jacksonville, on the 4th day of April next, approving of the ex-
pediency of forming a Grand Lodge of this State.
"Resolved, That Quincy, in Adams county, be recommended as a suitable place
for the location of said Grand Lodge.
"Besolced, That in case the Master and Wardens should not be able to attend
said meeting of delegates, that they be hereby authorized to appoint some suit-
able member of this Lodge to attend said meeting."
On Monday, the sixth of April, delegates and proxies met in Jackson-
ville. We shall use the record as printed, correcting such mistakes as
occur therein.
" In pursuance to said correspondence [alluding to the action of Jan-
uary 20th,] a convocation was held at Masons' Hall, in the town of
Jacksonville, on the 6th day of April, A. D. 1840, A. L. 5840.
" Present : J. T. JONES, W. M.,
W. B. WARREN, S. W.,
A. DUNLAP, J. W.,
A. V. PUTNAM, Sec.,
S. W. LUCAS, Treas.,
W. S. VANCE, S. D.,
J. M. LUCAS, J. D.,
A. C. DIXON, S. and S.,*
" Bro. James Adams appeared as representative of Springfield Lodge No. 26.
" H. Rodgersf and H. Dill.J of Bodley Nodge No. 29.g
" W. D. McCann, Columbus Lodge No. 20.
" J. T. Jones, proxy, Equality Lodge No. 102.
" D. Rockwell, Far West Lodge No. 29.
" W. B. Warren and A. Dunlap, Harmony Lodge No. 24.
"A Lodge of Master Masons was opened, according to ancient form
and usage.
* Tyler, t Rogers. J Dills. gXo. 97.
134 HISTOEY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS.
" On motion, a committee of Breth. Vance, Adams, and Rodgers* were
appointed to examine the credentials of delegates and proxies, and report
immediately.
" The committee reported the following Lodges to be regularly repre-
sented: Bodley, Springfield, Columbus, Far West, and Harmony; and,
" On motion of Bro. Rodgers, Equality was admitted by its proxy.
" The object of the meeting having been fully considered, it was unani-
mously
"Resolved, That the several subordinate Lodges of Ancient Free Masonry in
the State of Illinois here assembled, represented by delegates and proxies
properly authorized, consider it as a matter of right, and as conducive to the
general benefit of Masonry, that a Grand Lodge be established in the State of
Illinois, and that they now proceed to establish, organize, and locate the same
accordingly, to be known and designated by the name of the GRAND LODGE OF
ILLINOIS.
"On motion, Breth. Warren, Jones, and McCann were appointed a
committee to draft and report a Constitution and By-Laws for the gov-
ernment of the Grand Lodge.
" On motion, a ballot was had for the purpose of locating the Grand
Lodge, which resulted in no choice.
" On motion, the Grand Lodge was then called from labor to refresh-
ment.
"3 o'clock P. M. — The Grand Lodge was called from refreshment to
labor. Present, the same officers and brethren as in the morning.
"The committee to draft a Constitution and By-Laws, reported that
they had performed that duty.
" The Constitution and By-Laws having been amended, were adopted.
" A ballot was then had upon the location of the Grand Lodge, which
was decided in favor of Jacksonville.
" On motion, the Grand Lodge then went into a ballot for officers,
whereupon the following officers were elected, viz.:
" M. W. ABRAHAM JONAS, G. M.,
R. W. JAMES ADAMS, D. G. M.;
W. W. S. VANCE, G. S. W.,
H. ROGERS, G. J. W.,
W. B. WARREN, G. Sec.,
A. DUNLAP, G. Treas.
" On motion, Breth. Warren, Vance, and Dunlap were appointed a
committee to have the Constitution and By-Laws printed.
" On motion, the Grand Secretary was authorized to procure a seal for
the Grand Lodge; when,
"On motion, the Grand Lodge was called from labor to refreshment
until the last Tuesday in April, instant, 2 o'clock P. M.
* Rogers.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 135
" TUESDAY, April 28th, A. D. 1840, A. L. 5840.
" The Grand Lodge was called from refreshment to labor.
" Present : R. W. JAMESl ADAMS, D. G. M.,
w. w. s. VANCE, G. s. w.,
SAMUEL W. LUCAS, G. J. W.,
W. B. WARREN, G. S.,
A. DUNLAP, G. T.,
P. COFFMAN, G. S. D.,
A. V. PUTNAM, G. J. D.,
A. C. DIXON, G. S. and T.
" The following representatives appeared and took their seats, viz. :
<; Brothers James Adams, of Springfield Lodge ;
" W. B. Warren and A. Dunlap, of Harmony Lodge;
" J. T. Jones, proxy, Equality Lodge;
" W. S. Vance and D. Rockwell, proxy, Far West Lodge.
" Visiting Brethren.— J. T. Sigler, C. Ludlum, J. Gregory, of Harmony Lodge,
and Dawson, St. Louis Lodge No. 20.
"On motion, all but Past Masters having retired, a convocation of
Past Masters was declared, and the M. W. Grand Master installed by
proxy, and the grand honors paid him agreeably to ancient form and
usage. The convocation was then dissolved, and the M. W. Grand
Lodge was called from labor to refreshment until to-morrow morning at
8 o'clock.
" WEDNESDAY MORNING, 8 o'clock.
" The Grand Lodge was called to labor again. Present — the same
officers and members as yesterday.
. "The R. W. Grand Master appointed Brothers
" P. Coffman, of Jacksonville, G. S. D. ; I. R. Gray, of Springfield, G. J. D. ; Rev .
H. W. Osborn, of Morgan county, G. C. ; M. Helm, of Springfield, G. M. ; A. C.
Dixon, of Jacksonville, G. S. and T.
"The officers were then installed agreeable to ancient form and usage.
" Springfield Lodge then surrendered the charter under which she had
been working, and received one from this Grand Lodge as No. 4.
" Harmony Lodge surrendered her charter and received one as No. 3.
" On motion,
"Resolved, That the Grand Secretary be authorized to issue charters to the fol-
lowing Lodges, viz.: To Bodley Lodge as No. 1, Equality as No. 2, Far West as
No. 5, and Columbus as No. 6.
"Resolved, That Brother Grand Secretary be directed to make inquiry of the
officers of the late Grand Lodge of Illinois what disposition was made of the
jewels and furniture of said Lodge.
"Resolved, That the Grand Secretary be authorized to have the proceedings of
this convocation printed, and transmit copies to the several Grand Lodges in the
United States, the Canadas, and Texas, and request a correspondence with them.
"No further business appearing, the Grand Lodge was closed in due
form and harmony.
"JAMES ADAMS, D. G. M.
"Attest : W. B. WAHREN, Grand Secretary."
136 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
FIRST ANNUAL COMMUNICATION.
"At a Grand Annual Convocation of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, held
at Jacksonville, on Monday, the 20th day of October, A. D. 1840, A. L.
5840,
Present : M. W. A. JONAS, G. M.
R. W. J. ADAMS, D. G. M.
W. S. W. LUCAS, G. S. W., pro tern.
H. DILLS, G. J. W., pro tern.
W. B. WARREN, G. Sec.
A. DUNLAP, G. Treas.
P. COFFMAN, G. S. D.
M. STAGEY, G. J. D., pro tern.
M. HELM, G. M.
C. LUDLAM, G. P.
A. C. DIXON, G. S. and T.
«' Representatives : No. 1, HARRISON DILLS, W. M.
No. 3, A. DUNLAP, S. W. LUCAS, and JOHN GREGORY.
No. 4, M. HELM, JAMES ADAMS.
No. 6, A. JONAS.
"VISITING BRETHREN. — J. T. Sigler, J.M.Lucas, A. V. Putnam, Willis Tandy,
and B. Wherrit.
" The Grand Lodge was then opened in the third degree of Masonry,
according to ancient form and usage.
" On motion, the W. Master was authorized to appoint the following
standing committees, to-wit :
" On Returns of Lodges, Petitions and Grievances, Finance and Ac-
counts, To examine Visiting Brethren,
" A petition from several brethren residing at or near Peoria, was re-
ceived and read by brother G. Secretary, and referred to the Committee
on Petitions and Grievances.
" On motion of Bro. Dunlap, all Master Masons in good standing are
invited to visit the Grand Lodge at its present communication.
" On motion, the Lodge was called from labor to refreshment until
half-past 2 o'clock this afternoon.
"MONDAY EVENING, Half Past 2 o'clock P. M.
" The Grand Lodge was called from refreshment to labor. The same
officers and members as this morning.
"The M. W. Grand Master announced the following committees :
"On Returns of Subordinate Lodges. — Breth. Adams, Helm, and Gregory.
"On Petitions and Grievances. — Breth. Dills, Dunlap, and Stacy.
"On Finance and Accounts. — Breth. Lucas, Ludlum, and Coffman.
"To Examine Visiting Brethren. — Breth. Helm and Gregory.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 137
" On motion, the Grand Lodge then went into a ballot for the election
of officers for the ensuing year, and until their successors shall he duly
elected and installed, when the following officers were declared duly
elected, to-wit :
"M. W. A. JONAS, of Columbus, G. M.
R. W. JAS. ADAMS, of Springfield, D. G. M.
W. A. DUNLAP, of Jacksonville, G. S. W.
W. H. DILLS, of Quincy, G. J. W.
W. W. B. WARREN, of Jacksonville, G. Sec.
W. P. COFFMAN, of Jacksonville, G. Treas.
Rev. H. W. OSBORN, of Morgan co., G. Chap.
S. A. DOUGLAS, of Springfield, G. Orator.
" On motion,
"Resolved, That the M. W. Grand Master appoint the balance of the Grand
Officers of this Grand Lodge,
" Who signified his pleasure to do ao on to-morrow morning.
" On motion,
"Resolved, That Harmony Lodge No. 3, Springfield Lodge No. 4, and Columbus
Lodge No. 6, be required to pay Grand Lodge dues for the last six months, and
that Bodley Lodge No. 1 be excused from paying dues for the past six months,
said Lodge not having surrendered her former charter until the month of August
last.
" On motion, the Grand Lodge was called from labor to refreshment
until to-morrow morning, at 11 o'clock.
MORNING, 10 o'clock A. M.
"The Grand Lodge was called to labor.
"Present: M. W. A. JONAS, G. M.
R. W. J. ADAMS, D. G. M.
W. A. DUNLAP, G. S. W.
H. DILLS, G. J. W.
W. B. WARREN, G. Sec.
P. COFFMAN, G. Treas.
M. STACY, G. S. D.
M. HELM, G. J. D.
C. LUDLUM, G. M.
A. V. PUTNAM, G. P.
A. C. DIXON, G. S. and T.
"Representatives of subordinate Lodges the same as yesterday.
"The M. W. Grand Master made the following appointments, in pur
suance of a resolution of the Grand Lodge, viz.:
138 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"Breth. W. D. McCANN, of Columbus, D. G. S.
M. HELM, of Springfield, G. S. D.
J. CROCKER,* of Quincy, G. J. D.
S. W. LUCAS, of Jacksonville, G. M.
C. LUDLUM, of Jacksonville, G. Tyler.
LUCIEN B. ADAMS, of Springfield, \r 0
T. G. JOHNSON,t of Quincy, |u' b<
L. GRIPPING, of Columbus, G. S. B.
JOHN GREGORY, of Jacksonville, G. P.
"On motion, the following amendments were offered to the By-Laws
of the Grand Lodge, viz.:"
As these amendments are of but little importance at this time, a
synopsis will be given instead of the original.
The first, which was an amendment to Section 2, provided that no
visitor should be permitted to vote, nor to speak, without permission
first had.
The second, an amendment to Section 3, By-Laws, provided that no
brother should be eligible to the offices of Grand or Deputy Grand Master,
unless he had passed the chair in a regular Lodge, " unless in case of
emergency."
The third amended Section 12 by providing that an expelled Mason
could not be restored except by the Grand Lodge, and that such restora-
tion did not restore him to membership, without the unanimous consent
of the brethren of the Lodge affected.
The fourth was to strike out Sections 14 and 15. Section 14 provided
that upon the demise of a Lodge, its books, papers, jewels, etc., were to
be transmitted to the Grand Secretary. Section 15 conferred jurisdiction
in matters of discipline over all non-affiliated Masons, within the terri-
torial limits of the Lodge.
Number five related to amendments to the Constitution and By-Laws,
and embodied much the same law that now exists.-
The sixth provided for the appointment by the Grand Master of a
Committee on Returns and Work of Lodges, to consist of three members;
a Committee on Petitions and Grievances; a Committee on Finance and
Accounts, to consist of three members each ; and a Committee to Exam-
ine Visitors, to consist of two members.
Amendments to the Constitution, providing for the election of officers
on the 2nd day of the Annual Communication, giving to each Lodge
"one vote collectively from its representation, agreed on amongst them-
selves," the Grand, Deputy Grand Masters, one vote each, and Past
Grand Masters and Past Masters, one vote collectively, and adding to
the list of officers, "Grand Orator," were introduced. All these, as well
as a motion to strike the word "Jacksonville" from the by-laws and in-
* Crockett, t F. G. Johnston.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 139
sert "Springfield," were laid over until the next communication of the
Grand Lodge. But to resume :
" The committee upon Returns, upon leave given, made the following
report :
" ' The Committee upon Returns beg leave to report: That they have exam-
ined the proceedings of Lodges Nos. 1, 3, 4, and 6, and find them correct, and
dues paid. Lodges No. 2 and 5 are not represented at this communication, and
have not sent any returns. Your committee would recommend the adoption of
the following resolution, viz.:
" 'Resolved, That the Grand Secretary be directed to correspond and ascertain
why they have failed to be represented at this communication, and have sent
no returns.
"'All of which is respectfully submitted.
" ' M. HELM,
J. ADAMS,
JNO. GREGORY.'
"The Committee upon Petitions and Grievances made the following re-
port:
" ' The Committee on Petitions and Grievances beg leave to submit that they
have had under consideration the petition of sundry Masons at Peoria, for a dis-
pensation to work, and find that they have not complied with the sixth section
of the by-laws of this Grand Lodge. They would therefore beg leave to recom-
mend said petition to the favorable consideration of the Grand Lodge, and that
the Grand Secretary be directed to grant them a dispensation whenever the 6th
section of the By-laws shall be complied with.
"'All of which is respectfully submitted.
"'A. DUNLAP,
H. DILLS.'
" On motion, the above suggestion was adopted by the Grand Lodge,
and Bro. D. G. Master directed so to inform the petitioners.
"The committee on Finance made the following report, to-wit:
'" The undersigned, one of the Committee on Finance, begs leave to report
that he has examined the account of the Grand Secretary, and finds it correct,
and supported by the proper vouchers.
'"C. LUDLTJM.'
" All but Past Masters having retired, a convocation of Past Masters
was declared.
" The M. W. Abraham Jonas, Grand Master elect, was introduced, and
installed according to ancient form and usage. Also, R. W. James
Adams, as D. Grand Master elect, was introduced and installed. The
Convocation of Past Masters was dissolved, and the Grand Lodge stood
open in the Master's degree, when Alexander Dunlap, G. S. W.; H. Dills,
G. J. W.; W. B. Warren, Gr. Sec.; P. Coflman, G. Treas.; M. Helm, G. S.
D.; S. W. Lucas, G. M.; C. Ludlum, G. T.— officers elect— were installed and
140 HISTORY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS.
received their respective jewels, when the Grand Master, Deputy Grand
Master, and Grand Wardens received the congratulations of the breth-
ren.
" On motion, brother Grand Secretary was directed to have the pro-
ceedings of this communication printed and distributed.
"ABRAHAM JONAS,
Grand Master.
"W. B. WARREX,
Grand Secretary."
The whole membership reported to the Grand Lodge was ninety-seven.
Add to this thirty for Equality and Far West Lodges, not returned, and
the total number owing allegiance to the Grand Lodge of Illinois, in 1840,
was one hundred and twenty-seven. Bodley Lodge numbered thirty-two.
Their names we here give : H. Dills, Hiram Rogers, Thaddeus Monroe,
J. H. Luce, Andrew Miller, John Crockett, Jos. Hedges, Michael Most,
Jos. Ralston, J. W. Whitney, J. H. Holton, Rev. C. L. Daubert, Charles
Brown, David Whipple, Enoch Conyers, James Murphy, Richard M.
Young, Edward Turner, H. L. Simmons, John Woolf, E. M. Davis,
Henry F. Maire, Henry T. Thompson, Christian F. Ruoff, F. G.Johnston,
Thomas Jasper, Thomas C. King, Damon Hauser, Thomas Carter, J.
Greenwell, Jno. Wood, and Samuel Jonas.
Harmony Lodge numbered 21, as follows : Alexander Dunlap, S. W.
Lucas, John Gregory, A. V.Putnam, C. Ludlum, P. Coffman, W. B. War-
ren, A. C. Dixon, George Henry, George Hackett, Richard Henry, James
T. Holmes, John T. Jones, Dennis Rockwell, James A. McDougall,
Clark Roberts, Francis Robinson, William S. Vance, Mathew Stacy,
John T. Sigler, and Josiah M. Lucas.
Springfield No. 4 numbered 29, viz.: M. Helm, Alexander Lindsey,
James Adams, L. S. Corn well, M. Doyle, M. J. Kelly, J. S. Killaly, James
Maxey, James R. Gray, Philo Beers, B. C. Webster, W. Cudmore, Sam'l.
L. Hesser, Joseph Firey, Isaac R. Braucher, Win. Harvey, Francis
Springer, Stephen A. Douglas, James Zwisler, Alexander Shields, James
F. Reed, J. Wickersham, John Uhler, James Briggs, John S. Roberts, L.
B. Adams, F. A. McNeil!, James Shepherd, Henry Carrigan.
Columbus Lodge returned 14 members, as follows : Abraham Jonas,
Daniel Harrison, J. G. Driskill, A. Tousalin, W. D. McCann, James
Magorian, A. J. Short, G. W. Thompson, James S. Logan, Moses S. Hud-
nal, W. H. Chapman, Cyrus N. Williams, William Bayne, David P.
McNeal.
BODLEY LODGE NO. 97.
The following members were added to this Lodge during 1S40 : Thomas
Jaeper, Jan. 4; James Hedges and Damon Hauser, Jan. 14; Samuel
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 141
Jonas and C. F. Ruoff, Feb. 3; T. C. King, Mar. 16; Jacob Gruell, July
13; C. L. Daubert, Sept. 7; John Steinagle, Oct. 5; William Coyne, Oct.
19 ; Joshua B. Ijahms, Nov. 2. Brothers Jonas, Daubert, and Steinagle
were affiliated — the rest raised. McClain, Asbury, and Murphy were
demitted, and H. F. Thompson and J. W. Whitney suspended; the latter,
however, being soon after re-instated.
April 20, Brother Rogers made report of the organization of the
Grand Lodge.
June 24, semi-annual election. Bro. Dills (having been summoned to-
attend the meeting), was elected W. M. ; Hiram Rogers, S. W. ; T. Mon-
roe, J. W.; A. Miller, Treas. ; J. H. Luce, Sec'y.
July 6, the committee of finance reported that there was in the hands
of the treasurer, in notes, $83.65; due on account, $84.18; that "the
Lodge owes about $63.25 ; in the treasurer's hands," ninety-three cents.
The elected officers were duly installed.
July 13, the following committees (standing) were appointed: "On
Grievances, Ralston, Monroe, Johnston; on Accounts, Jonas, Rogers,
Thompson, and King; on Charity, Dills, Luce, Jasper, and Miller; on
Inquiry, Holton, Crockett, Conyers, and Hedges." Bro. C. L. Daubert
was appointed a delegate to attend " the annual communication of the
Grand Lodge of Kentucky for 1840." John Crockett and John Steinagle
appointed Deacons; H. F. Maire, Tyler.
Sept. 7, the W. M. and Wardens were appointed delegates to the
Grand Lodge of Illinois, to be held in October.
October 12, Bro. Dills made his report of the doings of the Grand
Lodge, and on Nov. 2 the charter granted by the Grand Lodge of Illi-
nois was accepted, and the Secretary directed to inform the Grand Lodge
of Kentucky of the fact. This brings us under the necessity of chang-
ing our title from Bodley Lodge No. 97, to
BODLEY LODGE NO. 1.
December 7th, the Lodge resolved to celebrate St. John's Day, and
"every brother was requested to bring with him a lady."
December 27th, 9 o'clock A. M., the following officers were elected :
J. H. Holton, W. M. ; J. N. Ralston, S. W.; John Crockett, J. W.; T.
Monroe, Treasurer; and William Coyne, Secretary. The officers were
then publicly installed by Grand Master Jonas, who also delivered an
oration, whereupon " the procession was then re-formed, with the ladies
of the brethren in front, and having conducted them to the hotel, they
partook of the refreshments provided."
EQUALITY LODGE NO. 102.
But two brethren were raised by this Lodge in the year 1840, viz. :
William Forrester, March 4; and John R. Smoote, March 7.
142 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
In the record of March 4, we find the following entry : "After some
alarm at the door for the first time, by Cowans, the Lodge was closed."
June 6, the following article of the by-laws was enforced, as to a
brother who had been guilty of profanity : " The Master shall publicly
reprimand any of the brethren who shall commit any irregularity or
indecorum in open Lodge. But as drunkenness and profanity are
atrocious and intolerable, whoever shall dare violate the congregation of
the brethren in either of these ways, shall, by order of the W. M., be
led out of the room, and not permitted to enter without making proper
concession to the Lodge." The brother thus punished was at the time
Junior Warden.
June 17, the Lodge resolved to celebrate St. John's Day, and ordered
the fact published in the " Western Review, and Gallatin Republican."
June 24, the following officers were elected : A. W. Pool, W. M. ;
James W. Hamilton, S. W.; R. T. Hopper, J. W.; S. Holt, Secretary:
William Siddall, Treasurer; J. E. Watkins and J. R. Smoote, Deacons;
Beverly R. Young, Tyler. After an oration by Bro. Edmund Jones, the
day was celebrated by a dinner at the house of Bro. Hopper.
August 5, Bro. Willis Stewart, of Louisville, was appointed to repre-
sent the Lodge in the Grand Lodge of Kentucky.
December — , the Lodge elected officers. The W. M., S. W., Treasurer,
S. D., and Tyler, were re-elected. Thos. H. Leavell was elected J. W. ;
R. T. Hopper, Sec'y; John M. Burnett, J. D.
HARMONY LODGE NO. 3.
We have no records of this Lodge for 1840.
SPRINGFIELD LODGE NO. 26.
The members added to this Lodge by raising during 1840, are as fol-
lows : James Briggs, Feb. 13 ; J. F. Reed, March 12 ; Alexander Shields,
April 22; Lucien B. Adams, May 1; Francis Springer, May 13; Stephen
A. Douglas and Francis A. McNiell, June 26 ; James Shepherd and
Henry Carrigan, June 29 ; John B. Broadwell, Dec. 7; William T. Pride
and William Mitchell, Dec. 21; Daniel Turney, Dec. 23.
Feb. 13, the silver cup ordered for Bro. James Adams was presented.
Feb. 26, Bro. Alexander Shields asked leave to demit, and on March
12 it was decided that as he was "an Entered Apprentice only, his
request was out of order."
April 22, the petition of Stephen A. Douglas was presented, and
referred to Breth. Doyle, Harvey, and Roberts.
May 1, the delegates to the convention which organized the Grand
Lodge reported as follows :
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 143
" The committee appointed to attend the convocation to be held at Jackson-
ville on the first Monday in the month of April, 1840, for the purpose of organ-
izing a Grand Lodge in and for the State of Illinois, respectfully report that they
attended at Jacksonville at the time aforesaid, and then and there acted in the
said convocation, with the delegates from the respective Lodges there repre-
sented, and then and there, in conjunction with the said Lodges, made a consti-
tution and by-laws for the government of the Grand Lodge, and proceeded to
an election of the officers for the regular Masonic organization of a Grand
Lodge, the location of which to be at Jacksonville, Illinois.
(Signed) "J. ADAMS, )
J. R. GRAY, I Delegates."
J. S. KILLALEY.J
On May 4, the charter granted by the Grand Lodge of Illinois was
received and accepted, consequently we will hereafter designate this
Lodge as
SPRINGFIELD LODGE NO. 4.
June llth, Stephen A. Douglas was initiated, and on June 24th
passed. July 15th, the following action was had :
" It appearing that Thomas M. Neale is a brother Mason, and now ly-
ing very ill, and although he is not a member of this Lodge, yet it
appearing that his family is in want of some necessaries, it is ordered
that the committee of Charity be authorized to appropriate the sum of
$20 for the use of the family, at the discretion of said committee."
September 7th, Bro. Killaly offered the following preamble and resolu-
tion, which were laid over until the next meeting :
" WHEREAS, At a meeting of delegates from various Lodges of this State, held
nt Jacksonville in December last, to consider and decide upon the propriety and
expediency of forming a Grand Lodge for the State of Illinois, and to adopt
such preliminary measures as might be deemed necessary towards the organi-
zation of a Grand Lodge, it was unanimously agreed that the permanent location
of said Grand Lodge should be determined by a majority of the subordinate
Lodges in this State, each. Lodge having one vote; and
••WHEREAS, At the subsequent .meeting of delegates in April last, which con-
stituted the present Grand Lodge, its location was decided upon in a manner
different from that agreed upon at the preliminary meeting aforesaid, and giving
to some Lodges an undue preponderance over others in said decision; and
" WHEREAS, This Lodge believes that the only fair and equitable mode of
settling that question, involving the convenience and interest of all the
subordinate Lodges, and of each equally, is by the vote of the said Lodges, as
such, each Lodge having one vote; and
" WHEREAS, This Lodge will never be satisfied with, or silently acquiesce in
the decision of said question, not procured in this or some similar way ; there-
fore,
" Resolved, That this Lodge does hereby protest against the decision aforesaid,
and instructs its delegates to the approaching annual communication to have
said decision annulled, and the question of the permanent location of the Grand
Lodge determined by a majority of the votes of all the subordinate Lodges, or
in some other mode equally calculated to secure to each Lodge its due share of
influence."
September 15th, the above preamble and resolution were passed, and
the Secretary directed to write to the Lodges at Hillsboroand Vandalia,
144 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
and request them to withdraw from the Grand Lodge of Missouri, and
unite with the Grand Lodge of Illinois.
December 21st, "Bro. William Mitchell, of Peoria," made application
for the second and third degrees. Bro. Mitchell was afterwards Grand
Secretary of the Grand Lodge.
December 28th, officers as follows were elected : Meredith Helm, "W.
M.; Love S. Cornwell, S. W.; Stephen A. Douglas, J. W.; Maurice Doyle,
Treasurer; Francis A. McNeill, Secretary; Francis Springer, Chaplain ;
S. L. Hesser, Tyler. Breth. Zwisler and L. B. Adams were appointed
Deacons, and Bro. Harvey Master of Ceremonies. The officers being
installed, the Lodge was closed.
The visitors to Springfield Lodge during this year were numerous.
Among them were William Hodge, of Temperance Lodge; Hart Fellows,
of Carrollton ; Wm. S. Vance, No. 3 (J. G. W.) ; D. McMurphy, A. V. Put-
nam, and A. C. Dickson, of Harmony Lodge ; John Bennett (now W. M.
No. 19 at Petersburg) ; John Logan, John S. Bradford (now a member of
No. 333) ; John Turney, formerly of Eden Lodge No. 11; Wm. J. Gatewood,
of Equality Lodge; Harry Wilton, of Mt. Moriah Lodge; William Stad-
den, John T. Jones, of Harmony Lodge ; J. A. McDougall and R. J.
Hamilton, the latter formerly of Union Lodge No. 10.
TEMPERANCE LODGE No. 27.
The members added by raising to this Lodge, during this year, are
as follows: J. C. Wheeler, Jan. 13; A. S. Thompson, Feb. 10; Zophar
Case, Feb. 19; Q. C. Alexander, March 8; E. A. Haden, March 30; Jo-
siah T. Bradley, April 13; Henry Scott, April 24; Jeremiah Abbott,
April 29; Henry H. Neely, Dec. 3. June 24, St. John's Day was duly
celebrated at the " Inn" of Bro. Greenupj thirty-six brethren being pres-
ent. July 13, the following officers elected June 15 were installed*:
Asahel Lee, W. M.; H. C. Remain, S. W.; D. B. Hodge", J. W.; AlVin
Washburn, Treasurer; William Hodge,' Secretary ; A. Boudafad and A.
S. Thompson, Deacons; Jeremiah Abbott, Tyler. September 8, Bro.' VJ.
M. Peery was buried with Masonic honors. September 14, the Lodge at
Carlyle was recommended. December 18, the following offic'ers wete
elected: John D. Gorin, W. M.; H. C. Remann, S. W.; Williafn Hodge,
J. W; Q. C. Alexander, Secretary; -Thos. H. Kirkman, Treasurer; A. S.
Thompson and A. Bourland, Deacons; Moses Phillips, Tyler.
FAR WEST LODGE NO. 29.
The raisings by this Lodge we can give only from October, as the
records from September 27th, 1839, to that time, are not in our possession.
Francis J. Dunn was raised October 21st, which was all the work done
by the Lodge in 1840, that we have any knowledge of.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 145
COLUMBUS LODGE U. D.
The following were raised by this Lodge during this year : A. J.
Short, Jan. 7th ; C. N. Williams, May 25th ; William Bayne, June 24th ;
D. P. MeNeall, Dec. 28th. April 3d, W. D. McCann was appointed a
delegate to the Grand Lodge of Illinois. Dec. 28th, the following officers
were elected : Lytle Griffing, W. M.; W. D. McCann, S. W.; J. S. Logan,
J. W.; A. Tousalin, Secretary; G. W. Thompson, Treasurer; M. L. Hud-
nail and C. X. Williams, Deacons ; Wm. Bayne and D. P. McNeall,
Stewards ; A. J. Short, Tyler.
MOUNT MORIAII LODGE U. D.
This Lodge still remained under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge
of Missouri, having sent no delegate to the convention for forming the
Grand Lodge, nor, as far as the records of the Lodge show, taken any
notice of such convention, or the Grand Lodge which was organized
thereby.
The raisings reported by this Lodge during 1840, we here present::
J. B. Collins, March 4; C. J. Eicheson and Ira Boone, April 1; D. D.
Shumway, Sept. 2 ; B. Kelly, Sept. 20 ; C. B. Hartwell, Nov. 4. January
18, the lodge allowed sundry bills, and ordered the W. M. to send to-
St. Louis for a " box of candles, if there is sufficient funds in the treasury
to pay for the same." The Lodge at this meeting resolved to build a.
hall, " over the shop of the W. M." Bro. H. P. Gay was elected Secretary
for the remainder of the term for which Bro. Stinson was appointed.
August 5, Robert Crow was affiliated. Oct. 3, the M. W. was appointed
" representative to the Grand Lodge in the State of Missouri, at St.
Louis." Nov. 4, the charter was received, and on the same day the
Lodge constituted as No. 33. The hall which the Lodge had ordered
built was evidently so built, as at the meeting of December 2 the Lodge-
was not opened, owing to the inclemency of the weather and the un-
finished condition of the hall.
CLINTON LODGE U. D.
Oct. 10 — A dispensation authorizing Zophar Case, Joshua T. Bradley,
Edmund A. Haden, Henry Scott, Franklin Hervey, M. McLaughlin,
Wm. Kelly, H. Wilton, Oliver Dunn, W. C. White, and Thomas Whitton,
to open and hold a Lodge in the town of Carlyle, was granted by M. W.
P. H. McBride, Grand Master of Missouri. This Lodge was not organ-
ized until January 20, 1841.
FRANKLIN LODGE.
This Lodge did no work during this year.
—10
146 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
FRIENDSHIP LODGE.
The record of the first meeting of this Lodge we here present:
" At a meeting of Ancient York Masons, held in the town of Dixon, on
6th November, A. D. 1840, A. L. 5840, the following brethren were
present, viz.: Samuel Johnston, Thomas Dexter, John Van Arnam,
Isaac Robinson, M. P. Kerr, Jacob "Whipple, Henry Brewer, W. A.
Merritt, and G. A. Martin.
"The dispensation from the Grand Lodge of Kentucky was received
and read, authorizing this Lodge to work under the name of Friendship.
" The following officers were appointed in said dispensation : Bro.
Samuel Johnston, W. M.; E. G. Nichols, Senior, and Wm. A. Merritt,
Junior Wardens.
"The Lodge proceeded to the election of officers for the ensuing year,
when the following brethren were duly elected &nd proclaimed accord-
ingly, viz.: G. A. Martin, Sec.; John Van Arnam, Tr.; M. P. Kerr, S. D.;
.Alvin Humphry, J. D.; Isaac Robinson, Tyler.
" Bro. Samuel Johnston, W. M. elect, was then introduced, and in-
stalled according to ancient form and usage. Breth. Wm. A. Merritt,
J. W.; G. A. Martin, Sec.; John Van Arnam, Tr.; M. P. Kerr, S. D.; and
Isaac Robinson, Tyler, were installed. Breth. E. G. Nichols, S. W.; and
Alvin Humphry, J. D., were not present. Breth. M. P. Kerr, S. W.,
•pro tern.; H. Brewer, S. D.,pro tern.; and J. Whipple, J. D.,pro tern,
"The Entered Apprentice's Lodge was then opened, and entered upon
business.
" Bro. Samuel Johnston offered the following resolution, which was
read and adopted, viz.:
"Resolved, That a committee be appointed to prepare a code of by-laws for
Friendship Lodge, with instructions to report at the next regular meeting the
result of their labor.
" Whereupon, Breth. Robinson, Van Arnam, and Martin were appointed
said committee.
" Bro. Van Arnam offered the following resolution, which was adopted :
"Resolved, That the regular communication of Friendship Lodge shall be
holden on Thursday on or the next preceding every full moon, in the town of
Dixon, at the hour of 1 o'clock P. M.
" Bro. Samuel Johnston offered the following resolution, which was
adopted :
"Resolved, That if any of the members of this Lodge choose to advance (or loan)
money for the purpose of buying indispensible materials, said money shall be
returned to the creditor the first received (if required).
" Whereupon, Breth. John Van Arnam advanced $5, Isaac Robinson,
$2, which was paid over to the Treasurer forthwith.
HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 147
" There being no further business, the Lodge was closed in peace and
harmony, according to ancient form and usage, until the next regular
communication.
"G. A. MARTIN, Secretary."
This Lodge held but one other meeting during the year, at which
by-laws were adopted.
OTTAWA LODGE.
The following information regarding this Lodge we obtained from
Bro. McCorkle, Grand Secretary Grand Lodge of Kentucky :
"Ottawa Lodge Xo. 114, at Ottawa, Illinois, dispensation granted December 19,
1839, George Breckenridjre being G. Master, Swigert, G. Secretary. Chartered
September, 1840, Abner Cunningham being G. Master, Swigert, G. Secretary.
John R. Hall was the first Master. It was authorized to unite with the Grand
Lodge of Illinois, in September, 1841."
The records of this Lodge for 1839, 1840, 1841, 1842, 1843, and 1844, we
are informed by R. W. Bro. Easton, can not be found.
CHAPTER XIV.
1841.
GRAND LODGE.
The Grand Lodge met at Jacksonville, Monday, October 4.
The following grand officers were present: M. W. Abraham Jonasr
Grand Master; Alexander Dunlap, Senior Grand "Warden; Harrison
Dills, Junior Grand Warden ; W. D. McCann, Dep. Grand Secretary ,-
P. Coffman, Grand Treasurer; Meredith Helm, Grand Senior Deacon;
John Crockett, Junior Grand Deacon; A. V. Putnam, Grand Marshal,
pro tern.; John Gregory, Grand Pursuivant; M. J. Kelly, Grand Sword
Bearer, pro tern.; A. C. Dixon, Grand Tyler, pro tern.
Five Lodges were represented, as follows : Bodley, No. 1, by. Harrison
Dills and John Crockett; Harmony, No. 3, by John Gregory, Mat. Stacy,
and G. Hackett; Springfield, No. 4, by M. Helm and P. J. Shepherd;
Columbus, No. 6, by W. D. McCann; and Macon U. D., at Decatur, by
Geo. A. Patterson. Equality and Far West Lodges were not.represented.
The following visiting brethren were present: Henry Carrigan, Z. P.
Cabiniss, Chas. W. Chatterton, Sam'l Matlack, L. B. Adams, M. Lindsay,
Samuel L. Hesser, A. Y. Ellis, Harrison A. Hough, M. J. Kelly, and
Maurice Doyle, of Springfield Lodge No. 4; Chapin Allen and George
Hackett, of Harmony, No. 3 ; and V. B. Holmes, of Randolph Lodge,
Tennessee.
Petitions for dispensations for Lodges at Joliet, Chicago, and "Dixon,
were referred, also the returns and work of Macon Lodge U. D.
The following committees were appointed :
" On Returns and Work of Lodges, Breth. Dills, Shepherd, and Stacy
" On Petitions and Grievances, Breth. Helm, Crockett, and Hackett.
" On Finances and Accounts, Breth. Dunlap, Doyle, and Dickson.
"To Examine Visiting Brethren, Breth. Gregory and Patterson."
The Grand Secretary was authorized to have the Constitution re-
printed, and three copies sent to each Lodge.
HISTORY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS. 149
The committee appointed to inform Bro. Stephen A. Douglas of his
election as Grand Orator, reported that owing to the inability of that
brother to be present and perform the work assigned him, they had
selected Bro. James A. McDougall, who had signified his acceptance of
the post.
Bro. Helm having moved an amendment to the By-Laws giving the
Grand Wardens one vote, collectively; and to strike out the word "Jack-
sonville," and insert "Springfield," and full power given the Grand
Marshal to arrange for a procession when the officers were installed.
The Grand Lodge was called off until Tuesday morning.
On Tuesday, the Grand Lodge again assembled. Present as on the
day previous.
The Committee on Returns and work of Lodges made the following
report :
" The Committee upon Returns and Work, beg leave to make the fol-
lowing report — That they have examined the returns of the following
Lodges, viz.:
" Nos. 1, 3, 4 and 6, and find the work and returns of Lodges NOB. 1, 3,
and 6 to be correct, and in accordance with the ancient usages of Masonry.
The returns of Springfield Lodge No. 4, the majority of the committee
think to be incorrect, in not showing the date of the reception of peti-
tions, for initiation, passing, and raising of candidates, as laid down in
the form of returns to be observed by subordinate Lodges. Your com-
mittee had before them the records of said Lodge No. 4, and find that
the Lodge has, in several instances, received the petition and initiated
the candidate on the same evening, and also have passed and raised
•candidates at the same sitting of the Lodge — which course of work the
majority of your committee believe to be in violation of the spirit of
Masonry.
" The majority of your committee would further report that they have
examined the returns and work of Macon Lodge, and report tjiat said
Lodge, in receiving petitions and initiation of candidates, and passing and
raising of candidates, have fallen into the same error as Springfield Lodge
No. 4. Your committee would recommend that said Lodge have its dis-
pensation continued for one year. Your committee would further recom-
mend that Macon Lodge pay to this Grand Lodge the sum of five dol-
lars, agreeably to the By-laws of this Grand Lodge, and also a charity
fund of three dollars.
" WESTERN STAR LODGE. — Your committee would further report that,
from the returns of this Lodge they have no means whereby to judge of
the work of said Lodge ; but would recommend that the dispensation
of said Lodge be continued for another year by this Grand Lodge.
" Your committee would recommend the adoption of the following
resolutions :
150 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"Resolved, \. That this Grand Lodge instruct all the subordinate Lodges
under its jurisdiction to not act on any petitions, unless the same has laid over
at least one month, or from one stated meeting until the next regular stated
meeting of the Lodge.
" 2. That the Grand Secretary be directed to furnish each Lodge under the
jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge, with at least two copies of the Constitution
and By-Laws of the Grand Lodge, and also with at least a like number of copies
of the proceedings of this Grand Lodge.
" 3. That no subordinate Lodge ought to receive the petition of any applicant,
whose known place of residence is nearer some other Lodge than the Lodge to
which the application is made, without the Lodge in his circuit shall recom-
mend his petition.
" All of which is respectfully submitted.
Bro. Shepherd made the following minority report :
" The minority of the committee appointed to examine the returns
and work of the subordinate Lodges, beg leave to report that we are
under the necessity of differing with a majority of your committee.
First, as it regards the work of Springfield Lodge No. 4, and are not pre-
pared to make a difference of opinion as a Lodge (as it regards the re-
ceiving of members of which the Lodge should be the judge), a violation
of the spirit of Masonry, and therefore beg leave to differ in opinion
with the majority of your committee on this point.
"Second, the minority beg leave to differ also with the majority of the
committee in their report on the Macon Lodge, and would recommend
that they be granted a charter by this Grand Lodge.
"The minority are prepared to agree with the majority of the com-
mittee on the other matter in their report.
"All of which is respectfully submitted by
"JAMES SHEPHERD.
" On motion of Bro. Helm,
"The reports were laid upon the table until 2 o'clock."
The Grand Lodge then proceeded to the "Rev. Mr. Todd's Church,"
where Bro. McDougall delivered an oration.
Upon the return of the Grand Lodge, charters were voted to the Lodges
at Dixon, Chicago, and Joliet, upon compliance with section six of the
Grand Lodge By-Laws.
The following grand officers were then elected : M. W. A. Jonas, of
Columbus, G. M.; R. W. M. Helm, of Springfield, D. G. M.; W. A. Dun-
lap, of Jacksonville, S. G. W.; W. H. Dills, of Quincy, J. G. W.; M. R. F.
A. McNeill, of Springfield, G. C.; James Shields, of 'Springfield, G. 0.;
W. B. Warren, of Jacksonville, G. Sec.; P. Coffman, of Jacksonville, G.
Treas.; G. Hackett, of Jacksonville, G. T., when the Grand Lodge was
called off until 2 o'clock P. M., at which time it again met, when the
following appointments were announced: John Crockett, of Quincy, S.
G. D.; Saml. Matlack, of Springfield, J. G. D.; W. D. McCann,of Colum-
bus, D. G. Sec.; A. C. Dickson, of Jacksonville, G. M.; John Gregory, of
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 151
Jacksonville, G. P.; James Magorian, of Columbus, and A. V. Putnam, of
Jacksonville, G. Stewards; M. Doyle, of Springfield, G. S. B. The
elective officers were then duly installed, the Grand and Deputy Grand
Masters being installed in a Lodge of Past Masters, and the remainder
in the Master's degree.
The report of the Committee on Returns and Work was then taken up,
and the following action had :
"On motion of brother Dills, the report of the Committee on Returns
and Work of Lodges was taken up in committee of the whole, Brother J.
T. Jones, P. M., in the chair.
" The Grand Lodge having spent some time in committee of the
whole, on motion, the committee rose and reported progress.
"The question being on the adoption of the 1st resolution in the re-
port, when Brother Helm offered the following amemdment:
" Except in case of emergency, by the unanimous consent of the mem-
bers present: and when there is no reason to believe that any absent
brother has an objection to the candidate; and when each member shall
have been previously notified of the application."
" After some discussion, the question on the amendment was rejected .
"And on motion, the resolution was adopted.
" On motion of Brother Dills, the second resolution was adopted.
" The 3d resolution was then taken up. Brother J. T. Jones offered
the following substitute, which was read and adopted:
" Resolved, That subordinate Lodges be cautious how they act upon petitions
of persons residing remote from the place of application: And provided, the ap-
plicant lives within twenty-five miles of a Lodge, not to entertain said petition
without a recommendation from the same.
" Brother Jones offered the following resolution, which was read and
adopted :
"Resolved, That from the explanation made by Brother Patterson, that the
irregularity in the work of Macon Lodge, referred to by the committee on that
.subject, be overlooked, and that a charter be granted to said Lodge."
Bro. Dunlap moved to strike out of the By-laws, the words "First
Monday in October," and insert "First Monday in August."
The report of the Finance Committee showed that the Grand Secretary
had received $124, which amount had been paid to the Treasurer. After
directing the Grand Secretary to communicate with delinquent Lodges,
notifying them to be represented at the next annual convention, or their
charters would be forfeited, and'providing for the publication of rejec-
tions, expulsions, etc. The Grand Lodge closed.
Bodley Lodge reported 34 members, Harmony 23, Springfield 39,
Columbus 17, Macon U. D. 10.— Total 123.
The Constitution, By-laws, and the oration of Bro. McDougall, are
printed with the proceedings of this year.
152 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
BODLEY LODGE NO. 1
Raised in 1841 as follows: Henry D. Dills, March 8; J. M. Pitman,
March 9. January 4, the Finance Committee reported debts due the
Lodge to amount to $220.99 ; cash in Treasury, $8.75; debts due by the
Lodge, $154.49. June 23, officers as follows were elected : J. H. Holton,
W. M.; Hiram Rogers, S. W.; J. H. Luce, J. W.; "Wm. Coyne, Sec.; T.
Monroe, Treas. The following were appointed : J. M. Pitman and Har-
rison Dills, Deacons; J. Steinagle, Steward and Tyler. At this meeting,
"a communication was received from John C. Bennett and others, of
the city of Nauvoo, asking this Lodge to recommend to the Grand Lodge
of the State, certain individuals whose names were therein contained,
to be appointed Master and Wardens of a Lodge to be established at said
city ; but as those persons were unknown to this Lodge as Masons, it was
thought prudent not to do so. The letter was returned to Bro. H. Rogers
with instructions how to act upon it." November 8, the Lodge buried,
with the honors of Masonry, the remains of Bro. Daniel Whipple.
December 6, a petition for a Lodge at Warsaw was presented, and the
Secretary directed to correspond with the petitioners, and directing " one
petitioner to examine the rest and report to the Lodge;" and on Decem-
ber 20, the petition of the brethren in and about Warsaw was recom-
mended. Officers, as follows, were elected on December 27 : Hiram
Rogers, W. M.; J. H. Holton, S. W.; J. N. Ralston, J. W.; T. Monroe,
Treasurer; William Coyne, Secretary; Pitman and Davis, Deacons ; J.
Hedges, S. and Tyler.
EQUALITY LODGE NO. 102.
This Lodge did no work during this year.
At the meeting of April 3, Brethren Wm. J. Gatewood, Jos. E. Wat-
kins, and Edmund Jones were appointed "a committee to correspond
with the Grand Lodge of Kentucky." What the object of this corres-
pondence was is not stated, but we presume it was in relation to severing
the connection of the Lodge with that Grand Lodge, in order to unite
with the Grand Lodge of Illinois.
June 24, the following brethren were elected officers : Wm. J. Gate-
wood, W. M. ; A. W. Pool, S. W.; J. E. Watkins, J. W. : Wm. Siddall,
Sec.; John R. Smoote, Treas.: J. W. Hamilton and R. T. Hopper,
Deacons; Beverly R. Young, Tyler.
June 28, the petition of sundry brethren at Shawneetown for a new
Lodge was recommended.
November 12, the remains of " Bro. Thomas Holland Leavell, aged 43
years," were interred with the solemn funeral service of the Fraternity.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 153
SPRINGFIELD LODGE XO. 4.
The raisings reported by this Lodge during this year are as follows:
James Shields, Jan. 4; W. B. Egan, Jan. 25; Braxton Parrish, Jan. 27;
Willis Allen and J. M. Kelly, Feb. 3; J. Steinfield, Feb. 4; Morris
Lindsay and John Dougherty, Feb. 15; S. H. Treat and Stephen G.
Hicks, Feb. 17: Joseph W. Ormsbee, A. Y. Ellis, and Michael Glynn,
Feb. 24; George R. Webber, March 1 ; Z. P. Cabanis, April 19; Ebenezer
Stout, June 7; Charles W. Ohatterton, Aug. 2 ; Augustus Hays, Sept. 15.
Feb. 22 was observed as follows :
"Monday, Feb. 22, the Lodge met pursuant to adjournment.
"Members present: M. Helm, W. M.; L. S. Cornwell, S. W.; S. A.
Douglas, J. W.; M. Doyle, Treasurer; F. A. McNeill, Secretary; Jas.
Zwisler, S. D. ; L. B. Adams, J. D. ; L. S. Hesser, Tyler; the members
of the Lodge generally, and many visiting, all properly accredited.
" A Master Mason's Lodge was opened in due form. The Lodge
was then called from labor to refreshment until 4 o'clock P. M. In
the meantime a procession was formed, agreeably to previous arrange-
ments, of all the brethren present, who repaired in Masonic order to the
State House, where they listened to an excellent Masonic address by
Bro. Woodson, of the House of Representatives, after which the brethren
formed again in procession and marched to the Globe Inn, where they
partook of an excellent dinner provided for the occasion. The pro-
cession being again re-formed, returned to the Lodge, where, at the
appointed hour, the Graft, were again called from refreshment to labor.
No further business appearing for the benefit of Masonry, the Lodge
was then adjourned till to-morrow evening at the usual hour."
At the meeting of Feb. 23, Bro. Woodson was requested to furnish his
oration for publication.
April 19, Bro. S. A. Douglas resigned his station as Junior Warden,
and Bro. James Shepherd was chosen to fill the vacancy. At this
meeting Bro. Helm offered the following resolution, which, on his
motion, was laid on the table until the next meeting of the Lodge :
"WHEREAS, In the judgment of this Lodge, circumstances which are incom-
patible with the peace, harmony, and well-being of the Lodge, and which are
otherwise incurable; therefore, be it
"Resolved, That Springfield Lodge No. 4 be and it is hereby dissolved, and
that it cease to exist, work, or act in any manner or form from and after the close
of the present meeting.
" Resolved, Sd. That the Secretary be directed to return to the Secretary of
the Urand Lodge our charter, together with a copy of the foregoing resolutions,
signed by the Master, and countersigned by the Secretary."
April 22, the question on the adoption of Bro. Helm's resolution came
up, when the following action was had:
154 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS
" Bro. J. Adams moved an amendment to the above resolution, viz. :
That the resolutions be laid on the table until the next regular meeting,
which was accepted by the original mover. The resolution was
negatived.
" Moved, that the preamble and resolutions be laid on the table for
the present. Carried.
"Moved, that if the brethren, members of this Lodge who are willing
to withdraw and form a new Lodge, shall do so, this Lodge hereby
agrees to recommend the petition of said brethren for a dispensation,
and to pay them seventy-five dollars out of the funds of this Lodge to
assist them in the formation of their new Lodge.
" The following amendment was proposed, to-wit : ' The said seventy-
five dollars to be paid at the regular meeting of this Lodge in the month
of June next.'
"The question was put upon the passage of the amendment. Carried.
"The question was put upon the passage of the resolution as amended.
Carried."
On April 26, the following action was had :
"Bros. Alexander Lindsay, Morris Ltndsay, Alexander Shields, J. R.
Braucher, George R. Webber, L. B. Adams, and W. T. Pride asked leave
to withdraw as members of this Lodge, which was granted.
"A petition to the Grand Master for a dispensation to form a new
Lodge, signed by the above brethren, was then presented for a recom-
mendation by this Lodge. On motion,
"Resolved, That this Lodge recommend said petition to the favorable consid-
eration of the Grand Master.
"Resolved, That so much of the first section of the 9th Art. of the by-laws as
requires members withdrawing from the Lodge to pay dues for the quarter
current, be suspended, and that they, the brethren who have withdrawn to-
night, be remitted their dues for the present quarter. Passed unanimously.
" Whereupon the Deputy Grand Master addressed the Lodge, and
after having given the Lodge various wholesome advice, concluded by
assuring them that in future he would refrain altogether from taking
part in the ordinary business of the Lodge."
The dispensation thus recommended, was not granted.
June 24th, Bro Helm resigned his station as W. M., whereupon Bro.
Love S. Cornwell was elected to fill the vacancy.
June 28th, a petition for a new Lodge at Decatur, signed by Breth.
Leonard Ashton, George A. Patterson, William LaForge, Elijah League,
Henry Prather, Joseph King, and James Ashton, was recommended.
At this meeting the following was passed :
" Bro James Shields presented the following preamble and resolution,
which on motion were unanimously adopted :
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 155
"WHEREAS, Dr. M. Helm, late Master of this Lodge, has felt it his duty to resign
the office which he so long exercised with distinguished ability and universal
satisfaction ; and
" WHEREAS, It is just, proper, and Masonic that genuine merit should always
be appreciated and openly approbated by the enlightened brotherhood of Free-
masons; therefore
" Resolved, That the brethren of this Lodge unanimously tender to Dr. M.
Helm, our late Worshipful Master, thereof, their sincere and grateful thanks, for
the able, efficient, and satisfactory manner in which he discharged his trust
while acting as Master, and for his disinterested, untiring, and successful efforts
in the cause of Freemasonry."
Sept. 27th, Bro Cornwall resigned as W. M., and Bro. Helm was
elected to fill the vacancy. Dec. 27th, the following officers wers elected :
James Shepherd, W. M.; William Harvey, S. W.; James Zwisler, J. "W.;
Edward Jones, Sec.; M. Doyle, Treas.; F. Springer, Chaplain ; James
Maxcy, Tyler; and the following were appointed : Samuel Matlack,
M. of C.; George R. Weber and John Uhler, Deacons.
FAR WEST LODGE NO. 29
Raised as follows, during this year: Joseph Doplar, Dec. 4th.; J.
Stewart, Dec. 27th. The following officers were elected at the last
named meeting: Charles Gear, W. M. : John Turney, S. W.; John Mc-
Nulty, J. W.; Daniel Wann, Treasurer; James Rice, Secretary; R.
Pattison and M. Faucet, Deacons ; J. Stewart and J. Doplar, Stewards ;
Joseph Dunlap, Tyler.
COLUMBUS LODGE NO. 6.
We have no information regarding this Lodge during the year.
TEMPERANCE LODGE NO. 27
Raised as follows : C. N. Halstead, May 10th ; Alex. H. Barnes, Dec.
13th. May 7th, the Lodge buried, with the forms of our ritual, all that
remained of Bro. A. Bourland, Junior Deacon of the Lodge at the time.
Angust 9th, the officers that should have been elected June 24th, previous,
were elected "to serve from the 24th June last," as follows : N. "M.
McCurdy, W. M.; D. B. Hodge, S. W.; A. S. Thompson, J. W.; T. C.
Kirkman, Treas. ; Q. C. Alexander, Secy. ; H. C. Remann and Wm.
Hodge, Deacons: Moses Philips, Tyler.
Dec. 13, the Lodge again elected officers, with the following result :
D. B. Hodge, W. M.; H. C. Remann, S. W. ; W. T. Hopkins, J. W. ;
J. D. Gorin, Treas. ; Q. C. Alexander, Sec. ; N. M. McCurdy and Wm.
Hodge, Deacons; Moses Phillips, Tyler.
FRIENDSHIP LODGE U. D.
Raised during 1841 the following: Horace Preston, James Campbell,
James McKinney, June 17; T. H. March, June 23; Smith Gilbraith,
156 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
Richard Loveland, A. Morehouse, July 31; D. B. McKinney, Stephen
Fuller, August 29.
May 28, eight dollars was appropriated as balance due the Grand
Lodge of Kentucky for the dispensation. June 3, the following officers
were elected: Samuel Johnston, W. M.; G. A. Martin, S. W.; W. A.
Merritt, J. W.; John Van Arnarn, Treasurer; Isaac Robinson, Tyler.
The Lodge at this meeting resolved to celebrate St. John's Day. June 17,
the committee of arrangements for St. John's Day reported that they had
procured the upper room of the Court House, for the purpose of having
an oration delivered by Bro. J. B. Crist, of Oregon. James Campbell
and James McKinney were appointed Deacons. June 23, the Lodge re-
solved to apply to the Grand Lodge of Illinois for a charter. June 24,
the day was celebrated, and the officers installed by Bro. \Vm. J. Mix,
of Oregon, when an oration was delivered by Bro. J. B. Crist, also of
Oregon. August 29, the committee appointed to draw up a petition to
the Grand Lodge of Illinois for a charter, reported, and the petition
drawn by them was approved; whereupon, the Lodge was closed until
the charter was received
MACON LODGE U. D.
The record of the first meeting of this Lodge we here present, remark-
ing that the dispensation (which is recorded in full) is omitted, being
in the usual form of such documents :
" FIKST COMMUNICATION OF MACON LODGE.
" The Lodge met pursuant to previous notice and appointment, at their
hall in Decatur, on the 17th day of July, A. L. 5841, A. D. 1841.
"Present: G. A. Patterson, W. M.; Joseph King, S. W.; Wm. Laforge,
J. W.; Henry Prather, Sec. and T., p. t.; Elijah League, S. D., p. L;
Leonard Ashton, J. D., p. t.; James Ashton, S. and T., p. t.
"The Lodge was called to order by the W. M., and proceeded to busi-
ness in due and ancient form by opening on the Master's degree.
" Bro. Henry Prather presented a code of by-laws for the regulation of
this Lodge, which being read, on motion of Bro. L. Ashton, the same
was unanimously adopted as the by-laws of this Lodge.
" On motion of Bro. King, the blank in the dispensation was filled by
inserting the word 'Macon/ by which the dispensation now reads
' Macon Lodge.'
"On motion of Bro. King, the name of 'Elijah Laforge' in the dis-
pensation, which was so written by mistake, was altered so as to read
' Elijah League.'
"On motion of Bro. King, the name of Henry Prather, one of the
petitioners for the dispensation, which was omitted in the dispensation
by mistake, was inserted.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 157
"On motion of Bro. King, the dispensation, as amended, was ordered
to be spread upon the records as part of the records of the Lodge.
" Bro. Prather presented the petition of W. \V. Oglesby, praying for
the benefits of Masonry, recommended by James Ashton and vouched
for by Jos. King; whereupon, the W. M. appointed Breth. H. Prather
and L. Ashton a committee on said petition.
"On motion of Bro. L. Ashton, that section of the by-laws requiring a
petition to lie over for one month was dispensed with, and the committee
on the petition of W. W. Oglesby instructed to report forthwith.
" Whereupon, the committee, after consultation, reported favorably.
A ballot was then taken, and found clear.
" Bro. Prather then presented the petition of Henry Hummel, praying
for the benefits of Masonry, recommended by E. League, and vouched
for by If. Prather; whereupon, the W. M. appointed Joseph King and
L. Ashton a committee on said petition.
" On motion of L. Ashton, so much of Sec. 1, Art. 5, of the by-laws, as
requires a petition to lie over one month for consideration, was dispensed
with, and the committee on the petition of H. Hummel instructed to
report forthwith. After consultation, the committee reported favorably,
wherepon, a ballot was taken on the petition of H. Hummel, and found
clear.
"No further business appearing in this degree for the benefit of Ma-
sonry, the Lodge closed, and a Lodge of Entered Apprentices was opened
in due form.
" W. W. Oglesby and H. Hummel being in waiting, were severally
initiated as Entered Apprentice Masons.
" The Lodge was then called from labor to refreshment until Monday
evening, 19th inst."
This dispensation was granted to Breth. George A. Patterson, Joseph
King, "William LaForge, Leonard Ashton, James Ashton, Elijah League,
and Henry Prather, and was recommended by Springfield Lodge No. 4.
Bro. Patterson was named as Master, Joseph King, S. W., and William
LaForge, J. W. The dispensation was dated July 1, 1841, and signed by
Abraham Jonas, G. M., and attested by W. B. Warren, G. Sec. The
following brethren were raised during the year: W. W. Oglesby, July
19 ; Henry Hummel and Joel S. Post, August 28: Charles II. Pringle,
A. S. Williams, and Jerome B. Gorin, Oct. 18; William Bosworth, De-
cember 27.
October 20, the charter granted by the Grand Lodge of Illinois was
delivered to the Lodge by the W. M., whereupon an election was held
which resulted as follows : G. A. Patterson was elected W. M.; Joseph
King, S. W.; Henry Prather, J. W.; A. S. Williams, Treas.; J. R. Gorin,
Sec.; James Ashton, Steward and Tyler.
158 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
ST. JOHN'S LODGE, U. D.
We present the record of the first meeting of this Lodge entire :
"August 7th, A. L. 5841. — Under a dispensation granted by the M. "W.
G. Lodge of Illinois, received and accepted by the petitioners, they as-
sembled at their lodge-room on Saturday, 7th of August, A. L. 5841, pro-
ceeded to open and organize a Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons,
under the style and name of St. John's Lodge.
"Present: Bro. Luther Woodward, W. M.; Bro. Andrew Kirkpatrick,
S. W.; Bro. Mathias J. Ross, J. W.; Bro. Asa Holdridge, M. M.; Bro.
Samuel Norton, M. M.; Bro. Angus McMillen, E. P.
"A committee was appointed to draft and report a code of By-Laws
for the government of this Lodge, consisting of Breth. Woodward, Kirk-
patrick, Ross, and Potter.
" Breth. Kirkpatrick and Holdridge were appointed a committee to
procure jewels and furniture for this Lodge.
" Lodge adjourned to meet again on Saturday, two weeks from this
day, at 4 o'clock P. M."
The Lodge did no work, beyond initiating Stephen W. Pain, during the
year.
MOUNT MORIAH LODGE NO. 33.
During the year 1841, this Lodge conferred the Master's degree upon
the following brethren . John S. Hillis, Feb. 3.; A. Stotesberry, March
13 ; Josiah C. McHenry and M. J. Blockburger, April 10 ; William II.
High, April 12; William Wood, Artemus H. Knapp,and McKenzie Tur-
ner, May 13 ; William Shawn, May 22 ; C. S. Canaday and Daniel Spain-
hour, May 29 ; Thomas A. Gray, June 3 ; Thomas H. Cory and John D.
Cline, June 21; A. McMellon, June 22; Horace Mansfield, July 10 ; Eli-
sha Bass, August 3 ; John Carriker, August 7; Jeremiah Hart, August
28; Reuben Ross, September 4.
February 22, the Lodge " at the desire of the citizens of Hillsboro
and vicinity, joined in the celebration of the birthday of George Wash-
ington." June 12, " Dr. William B. Herrick" was elected to receive the
degree of Entered Apprentice, and on June 16, he was initiated, and on
June 21 was passed.
CLINTON LODGE, U. D.
We present the record of the first meeting of this Lodge, which was
held at Carlyle :
" On the evening of January 20th, A. L. 5841, the Lodge was organized.
" Present: J. T. Bradley, W. M.; Zophar Case, S. W.; Henry Scott, J.
W.; F. Henry, Oliver Dunn, William Kelly, and Michael McLaughlin.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS. 159
" Lodge on Entered Apprentice's degree opened. No business in this
degree ; dispensed with, and Master's Lodge opened instead thereof.
" There not being any Treasurer, Secretary, or Deacons, the Master
appointed p. t. Bro. M. McLaughlin, Treasurer; W. Kelley, Secretary ;
McLaughlin, S. D.; 0. Dunn, J. D.; Franklin Henry, Tyler. A code of
Bye- Laws for the government of this Lodge were introduced by Bro.
Bradley, which being read and amended, were adopted for the govern-
ment of this Lodge. Bro. Scott presented the petition of Mr. W. II.
Maddox, for initiation, which was referred to a committee of Bros. Henry,
Dunn, and Kelley. Bros. Bradley, Case, Scott, and Henry were ap-
pointed a committee to fix a lodge-room. Bros. McLaughlin arid Scott,
a committee on Furniture. No further business, Lodge was closed. En-
tered Apprentice's Lodge closed."
This Lodge conferred the third degree upon the following brethren
during the year 1841 : W. H. H. Barnes and John A. Goudy, Nov. 16:
Franklin D. Taylor, Nov. 17.
March 8, the following officers were appointed : Thomas Moon, Trea-
surer ; Harry Wilton, J. Deacon. In the record of this meeting we find
the following entry:
"Bro. Dunn departed this life at Thomas Bond's house, on the 18th
February, 1841, 5841, of winter fever."
November 16, the Lodge was duly constituted as No. 39, by R. W. Bro.
A. T. Douglas, Grand Visitor Grand Lodge of Missouri, and the following
officers installed : J. T. Bradley, W. M.; Zophar Case, S. W.; Henry Scott,
J. W.; 0. H. P. Maxey, Treasurer; C. N. Halstead, Secretary; William
Kelley, S. D.; Thomas Melton, J. D.; S. Henry, Tyler.
We present the petition of this Lodge for a charter, with the accom-
panying letter, in order to show how cautious the brethren of those days
were in certain matters, and as a contrast to the speed and celerity
with which they made Masons.
•' To the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of the State of Missouri:
" The petitioners hereof humbly show that they have heretofore obtained from
said Grand Lodge a dispensation for a Lodge in this town, and have nominated
and appointed for the first Master, Joshua T. Bradley. There being some dif-
ference of opinion among the brethren composing our Lodge, whether he could
preside in a legal manner without having first taken the degree of Past Master,
we therefore pray your Worshipful Lodge to appoint some suitable person as
Deputy Grand Master in this region to assemble a Lodge of Past Masters, for
the purpose of conferring this degree upon our worthy brother, Joshua T. Brad-
1 ey, and would nominate our Brother Michael McLaughlin, a Past Master, to
your Worshipful Lodge for that purpose, and as in duty, 4c., will ever pray.
" ZOPHAR CASE.
HENRY SCOTT.
THOMAS MOON."
" CLISTOX LODGE, CARLTLE ILLS., Jan. 9th, 1841.
160 HISTORY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS.
" CAKLTLE, Jan. 9th, 1841.
"£. B. Dallam, Esq. :
" SIR : — The petition on the other page we wish attended to, and will say that
we proceed very cautiously, and some are of opinion|that Mr. Bradley cannot legally
preside without having first taken the degree of Past Master. We wish him to-
take that degree in order to keep peace and harmony. Should you think it not
necessary, you will please state the same to us, and if you think it is, we wish, to
save trouble, to have some person deputised to assemble a Lodge Past Masters,
for that purpose, and will refer you to Mr. Melody, Ezram Owens, and others,
some of whom sat in the Chapter with Mr. Laughlin, in either the month of May
or June, 1838.
"I am sir. very respectfully yours,
" ZOPHAR CASE."
FRANKLIN LODGE.
We have received from Bro. Gouley, Grand Secretary Grand Lodge of
Missouri, the proceedings of this Lodge for 1837-'38-'40 and 1841, which
proceedings were not reported to the Grand Lodge of Missouri until
1841.
We shall here give a synopsis of these proceedings from 1838 to 1831 :
Jan. 6th, the W. M. communicated to the Lodge the intelligence of the
death of Alexander Hart, late W. M. The usual resolutions of sorrow
and respect were passed. The petitions of David P. Berry, A. Botkins,
Thomas R. Wilson, and W. Steine were received and referred. Bro. S.
C. Pierce, S. W., resigned, whereupon Bro. McFarland was elected to fill
the vacancy. Feb. 3d, Wilson and Steine, and on Feb. 10th, A. Botkins,
were initiated. Feb. 23d, Bro. Richard Rogers, a "strange brother," was
buried with the usual solemnities. March 10th, Wilson and Steine
passed, and petition of John W. Vance received. March 17th, Bro. Ber-
ry was passed. There is no record of his initiation. April 7th, petition
of Henry Ilohoff received, and John W. Vance initiated. May 12th,
Hohoff initiated. Bro. Howard resigned as Master, and S. C. Pierce was
elected to fill the vacancy. July 7th, Bro. Berry raised. July 22d, Bro.
Longdon was buried with Masonic honors. Nov. — , the following
officers were elected : Charles Howard, W. M.; • Wilkinson, S. W.;
— Collet, J. W.; S. C. Pierce, Sec.; Jacob C. Bruner, Treas.; Berry,
Tyler.
The Lodge held no meetings in 1839 and 1840. May 29th, 1841, the
brethren were summoned to attend a special communication "at the
new Court House in the City of Alton," but the meeting was not held.
Sept. 1st, the following petition was prepared and forwarded to the Grand
Lodge :
" To the Most Worshipful Grand Matter, Grand Wardens, and brethren of the G. L.
of Missouri :
"BRETHREN: — The undersigned, the only remaining members of Franklin
Lodge No. 22, now residing in Alton, beg leave to make a plain and unvarnished
statement of the facts in regard to our Lodge, which is now under the censure of
this Grand Lodge :
HISTOKY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS. 161
" We sent a delegate to the Grand Lodge, at its regular communication in
October, 1838, with a transcript of our work for the preceding year. Also the
amount of our Grand Lodge dues up to that time. That transcript was made out
by an aged and paralytic (but very worthy) brother, hence its illegibility. The
dues, it appears, were not paid. As our work was not received, we presume our
delegate thought it best to retain the money.
" We have done no woik since Nov., 1838, owing to the death of several of our
most efficient members, the removal of others, and the entire pecuniary prostra-
tion of all. We have nothing left to work upon. Nothing but zeal for the cause,
and love for the fraternity. And we respectfully ask of the Grand Lodge that
they will not hold the few who remain, and who are poor, accountable for the
past dues of our Lodge. Brethren, in all frankness and sincerity, we say we are
not able to pay you without serious injury to our families.
"'We therefore beseech you brethren, by your bowels of— charity to for-
give the past.'
"We are now ready to go to work again, and under favorable circumstances
and trust that hereafter no just cause of complaint will be found against us.
(Signed by) " CHAS. HOWARD,
ROBERT McFARLAND%
JABEZ CARTER,
J. C. BRUNER,
WILLIAM LOWE, JR.,
JOHN A. MAXEY,
HARVEY 8. SUMMERS,
WILLIAM STEIN,
WESLEY NOLAND,
J. W. COLLETT."
" Sept. 1st A. L. 5841, A. D. 1841.
Sept. 3d, A. T. Douglas, Grand Visitor presiding. The petitions of
Daniel M. Kittinger, for initiation, and Dolbee, for affiliation, were
received. The Lodge did no further work during the year.
>
WESTERN STAR LODGE. S/) ,
The following is the only information we are able to give concerning'
this Lodge :
" To all and every our Right Worshipful brethren. We the Most Worshipful Grand
Master of Free and Accepted Masons in the State of Illinois, Abraham Jonas, send
greeting : ,
" Know ye, that we, at the petition of our Right Worshipful and well beloved
Brethren R. B. Servant, John W. Gillis, James Roberts, and sundry others, re-
siding at or near the town of Kaskaskia, in our State of Illinois, do hereby
constitute the said brethren into a Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons, to be
opened at the aforesaid town of Kaskaskia, by the name of Western Star Lodge,
under dispensation. And do further, at the said petition, and of the great trust
and confidence reposed in the above named brethren, hereby appoint Brother
R. B. Servant, Master ; Jno. W. Gillis, S. W., and James Roberts, J. W., for open-
ing the said Lodge, with power to confer the degrees of Entered Apprentice,
Fellow Craft, and Master Mason, until the next grand annual convocation of the
—11
162 HISTORY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS.
Grand Lodge of Illinois, and no longer. And we do hereby require you, the said
R. B. Servant, to take special care that all and every, the said brethren are, or
have been regularly made Masons, and that they do perform and observe all the
laws, rules, and regulations contained in the book of constitutions. And further,
that you do cause a book to be kept, in which from time to time you cause to be
entered, an account of your proceedings in the Lodge, together with all the
regulations which may be made for the government thereof, a copy of which
you are in no wise to omit laying before the Grand Lodge, together with this
dispensation, at our next grand annual convocation.
" Given under our hand and seal of Masonry, at Jacksonville, this March Gth,
A. D. 1811, A. L. 5841.
"ABRAHAM JONAS, G. M."
" W. B. WAKREN, (?. S."
" JACKSONVILLE, March 6th, 1841.
" Col. Servant :
" DEAR SIR: — Enclosed I send you a dispensation in accordance with your
request. It would have been sent sooner, but from the fact that it had to be
recommended by a Lodge, and none of our members being acquainted with
you Masonically, it was some time before we could acquire the necessary infor-
mation. In mailing your letter back and forth it has been mislaid, consequently
the names of Brethren 8. and J. Wardens, and name of Lodge I have left blank,
and must request of you the favor of filling the blanks. Our regulations require
the fee for dispensation to accompany the petition, but have on my own respon-
sibility entered yours as paid, and you can remit the amount to me. You will
perceive, by a copy of the by-laws which I send you, that the charge is dispensa-
tion, $15,00; Secretary fee, $2,00 ; seal, $2,00.— Total $19,00.
" Very respectfully yours,
"W. B. WARREN."
CHAPTER XV,
1842.
GRAND LODGE.
The Grand Lodge met at Jacksonville, on Monday, Oct. 3, A. D. 1842,
A. L. 5842.
The following grand officers were present: M. W. Abraham Jonas,
G. M. ; R. W. Meredith Helm, D. G. M.; Alexander Dunlap, S. G. W. ;
Joseph N. Ralston, J. G. W., pro tern.; Win. B. Warren, G. Secretary;
Matthew Stacy, G. Treasurer; J. H. Luce, S. G. D.; J. S. Post, J. G. D. :
A. C. Dickson, G. M. ; John Gregory, G. P. ; George Hackett, G. T.
The following Lodges were represented : No. 1, J. N. Ralston, R. M.
Young, J. H. Luce; No. 3, Geo. Hackett, M. Stacy, A. V. Putnam; No.
4, M. Helm; No. 6, A. Jonas; No. 8, Henry Prather, J. S. Post; Rising
Sun, U. D., Daniel C. Davis; Rushville, U. D., L. Lusk; Nauvoo, U. D.,
II. Sherwood, L. N. Scovill.
The Grand Lodge having been opened, and the reading of the pro-
ceedings of the last communication dispensed with, the Grand Master
appointed committees as follows :
On Returns and Work of Lodges. — Bros. M. Helm, J. N. Ralston, and
Henry Prather.
On Finance and Accounts. — Bros. Shepherd, Harvey, and Ludlum.
To Examine Visiting Brethren. — Bros. M. Stacy and W. W. Happy.
The following visiting brethren were present: George Henry, W. W.
Happy, James T. Holmes, of Harmony Lodge No. 3 ; J. B. Broadwell.
A. Y. Ellis, Springfield Lodge No. 4; John Daley, Virginia Lodge, U. D. ;
and Timothy B. Foot, Nauvoo Lodge, TJ. D.
The Grand Master reported that he had granted dispensations to form
new Lodges at Virginia, Oass county; at Vermilionville, LaSalle county;
Rushville, Schuyler county; Shawneetown, Gallatin county; Peoria ;
Nauvoo, Hancock county; and Moutrose, Lee county, Iowa Territory.
164 HISTORY OF 3IASOKRY IX ILLINOIS.
At the afternoon session, Breth. Zwisler and James Shepherd appeared
as representatives of No. 4.
The amendment to the by-laws offered at the last session, giving the
Grand Wardens one vote collectively, was taken up and adopted.
The Committee on Eeturns and Work of Lodges reported that they
had examined the returns and work of Rushville Lodge U. D., and
found it correct, with the exception of some hastiness in initiations,
which being explained by Bro. Lusk, it was ordered that a charter issue
to Rushville Lodge No. 9. Whereupon, upon motion of Bro. Warren,
Bro. Lusk was invited to take his seat as the representative of that
Lodge.
At this juncture the following additional visiting brethren were ad-
mitted: H. J. Armstrong, William Harvey, William Lavely, and J. H.
Matheny, all of No. 4.
M. W. Bro. Jonathan Nye, Past Grand Master of Vermont, was
received with the grand honors.
Bro. H. J. Armstrong, of Springfield Lodge No. 4, was recognized as
the representative of Macon Lodge No. 8, he holding the proxy of Bro.
Patterson, the W. M. of that Lodge.
A petition from a number of brethren in Mason county, asking for a
dispensation for a new Lodge, was presented by Bro. Shepherd.
The Grand Lodge was then called off until Wednesday morning, at
which time it again assembled. Present, as on the day previous.
The reports of the Grand Secretary and Treasurer were referred to the
Finance Committee.
On motion of Bro. Helm, a committee on "Foreign Relations" was
appointed, to whom were referred all foreign correspondence. The
committee were Breth. Lusk and Dunlap.
A communication from a convention of Masons, held at Washington
City, presented by Bro. Lusk, was referred to this committee. The
annual election was then held, resulting in the election of the following
brethren : M. W. Meredith Helm, of Springfield, G. M.; R. W. Alexan-
der Dunlap, of Jacksonville, D. G. M.; W. Levi Lusk, of Rushville, S. G.
W.; Joseph N. Ralston, of Quincy, J. G. W.; W. B. Warren, of Jackson-
ville, G. Sec.; Philip Coffman, of Jacksonville, G. Treas.: J. H. Matheny,
of Springfield, G. Orator; F. A. McNeill, of Springfield, G. C.; George
Hackett, of Jacksonville, G. T.
The following appointments were made: Samuel Matlack, of Spring-
field, S. G. D.; Henry Prather, of Decatur, J. G. D.; Edward Jones, of
Springfield, D. G. Sec.; A. C. Dickson, of Jacksonville, G. M.; John
Gregory, of Jacksonville, G. P.; A. V. Putnam, of Jacksonville, G. S.;
J. P. Zwisler, of Springfield, G. S. B. The Grand Lodge then repaired to
the "Rev. Mr. Todd's Church," where the officers were installed, and
an oration delivered by M. W. Bro. Jonas. The Grand Lodge then re-
HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 165
turned and was called off until 3 o'clock, at which time it was again
•called to labor.
The Committee on Returns and Work reported the Returns and "Work
of Rising Sun Lodge correct, and recommended the granting of a char-
ter as No. 12, which was done, and Breth. Davis and "Williams admitted
as representatives of that Lodge. Upon the recommendation of the
same committee, a charter was granted to Cass Lodge as No. 11, and
Bro. Thompson admitted as its representative.
The following resolution, offered by Bro. Jonas, was adopted:
"Resolved, That in the opinion of this Grand Lodge, no subordinate Lodge
should permit a petition for admission or initiation to be withdrawn after a
committee has been raised to inquire into the character and qualifications of
the candidate."
The amendment to the By-Laws offered at the previous communica-
tion by Bro. Dunlap, changing the time of meeting from October to
August, was taken up and lost. Breth. Thompson, of Cass Lodge, and
Armstrong, of Decatur, were granted leave of absence. The following
resolution, offered by Bro. Jonas, was adopted :
"Resolved, That from and after the adoption of this resolution, the Grand
Treasurer and Grand Secretary be annually required to give bond, with approved
security, payable to the Grand Master for the time being— for the faithful and
lawful disposition of all moneys that may come into their hands belonging to the
Grand Lodge."
The Grand Lodge was then called off until 7£ o'clock. The Grand
Lodge being again called to labor, the Committee on Returns and Work
reported the returns of Lodges Nos. 1, 3, 4, 6 and 8 correct, and recom-
mended granting of a charter to St. John's Lodge as No. 13, and its
removal from Vermilionville to Peru, which was accordingly done. On
motion of Bro. Jonas, the vote granting a charter to Cass Lodge was re-
considered, and its returns and records recommitted to the committee
having those matters in charge.
The following amendment was offered by Bro. Lusk, and laid over
to the next communication :
"SEC. 18. No Lodge acting under the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge shall
knowingly receive any candidate in either of the degrees of Masonry that has
been rejected by any other Lodge, without first receiving the unanimous consent
of the Lodge that rejected him."
The majority of the Committee on Returns and Work made the follow-
ing report on the returns and work of Nauvoo Lodge, U. D:
" The Committee on Return and Work of Lodges ask leave to report that they
have examined the returns of Nauvoo Lodge, under dispensation, together with
the papers and correspondence referred to your committee connected therewith.
"Your committee regret that the original records of the work of said Lodge
have not been sent up, as was required by the M. \V. G. Master in his order sus-
pending the labor of said Lodge; but from the report, as well as the transcript
166 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
of the proceedings of the Lodge exhibited, the work appears to conform to the
requirements of this Grand Lodge.
•' It appears, however, from documentary and other evidence before the com-
mittee, that there is some reason to fear that the intention and ancient landmarks
of our Institution have been departed from, to an inexcusable extent. The facts
in the case, however, your committee are of opinion can only be satisfactorily
ascertained by a careful inspection of the original records, and thorough investi-
gation of the whole proceedings. Such a course, your committee believe, is due
as well to the brethren of Nauvoo Lodge, as to this Grand Lodge and the Craft
generally; and should our fears prove groundless, as the committee still hope
they will, none will be more benefited by the investigation than the Lodge under
consideration ; but should they in any considerable degree be realized, the sooner
the facts are ascertained the better.
" It appears from the records that the dispensation was granted October 15,
5841, and the Lodge installed and set to work on the 15th March, A. L. 5842, by
the M. W. G. Master. Up to the llth August, at which time their labor was sus-
pended, the Lodge initiated 286 candidates, and passed and raised nearly as
many.
"In view of all the circumstances connected with this subject, the committee
would respectfully recommend the adoption of the following resolutions :
"1st. Resolved, That the injunction suspending the labors of Nauvoo Lodge
U. L\, be continued until the next regular communication of this Grand Lodge.
"2d. Resolved, That a special committee be appointed, whose duty it shall be
to examine the original minutes of Nauvoo Lodge, and diligently inquire into
any irregularity or misconduct alleged to have been committed by said Lodge,
and report the facts at the next regular communication of this Grand Lodge.
"J. N. RALSTON,
M. HELM."
The minority made the following report:
"The minority of the Committee on Returns and Work of Lodges would re-
spectfully state that they have examined the returns of Nauvoo Lodge U. D.,
together with all the papers referred to them on the subject of the said Lodge,
as well as other testimony that have come before them, and would respectfully
say, that to the minority of the committee, there appears no evidence by which
the committee can establish any irregularity or departure from the original
landmarks of the Order, but having reasons to apprehend that irregularities can
be established, we would respectfully concur with the majority in recommending
the adoption of the resolutions the majority have reported.
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
"H. FRATHER.
" Bro. P. G. M. offered a substitute to the above resolutions, as follows :
"Resolved, That a special committee be appointed, whose duty it shall be to
repair to Nauvoo forthwith, and examine the original minutes of Nauvoo Lodge,
and diligently inquire into any irregularity or misconduct alleged to have been
committed by said Lodge, and to examine persons and papers connected with
the subject, and report the facts to the M. W. Grand Master, and if he should
deem them of such character as to justify such a course, he shall either direct
the injunction suspending the work of said Lodge to be continued until the next
regular communication, or direct the dispensation granted by Grand Master
Jonas to be continued, and the Lodge be permitted to work under the same until
the next Grand Annual Communication of this Grand Lodge, and that said com-
mittee be allowed a reasonable compensation for their expenses.
3N, I Committee."
t. J
HISTOKY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS. 167
" Which was concurred in, and the report and resolution, as amended,
was laid on the table for the present."
In the matter of Feoria Lodge, the following report was made :
'• The Committee on Returns and Work of Lodges respectfully report that they
have considered the case of Peoria Lodge, U. D., whose delegate, Bro. Davis, is
here without the returns of his Lodge, they having unavoidably been left behind,
under peculiar circumstances, already detailed to the Grand Lodge by the
explanatory statement of Bro. Davis, and now recommend the adoption of the
following resolution:
"Resolved, That the Peoria Lodge U. D. be required to hand in, as soon as
practicable, the return and minutes of their proceedings to the G. M. for his
inspection, and that if he shall approve the same, a charter shall then be granted
to said Lodge, upon their paying to the Grand Secretary their proper amount of
dues and charges.
"M. HELM,
J. N. RALSTON,
H. PRATHER.
The following action was had in the matter of Cass Lodge :
"The Committee on Returns and Work, to whom was re-committed their
report on Cass Lodge, would beg leave to report that they have examined all the
testimony before them in relation to the action of said Lodge upon a petition,
the petitioner having been previously rejected by Springfield Lodge, and find
that Cass Lodge did initiate a candidate after he had been rejected by Springfield
Lodge, and that they (Cass Lodge) were apprised of the fact; and that subse-
quently to the initiation, that Cass Lodge was informed by the W. M. of Springfield
informally of the fact, and afterwards the same person was passed and raised.
Your committee are not prepared to sanction such actions as usages of Masonry,
and regret that the subject was not brought before them while the delegate of
Cass Lodge was present. We would therefore recommend the following resolu-
tion:
"Resolved, That at present a charter be refused Cass Lodge, and that their
dispensation be continued until the Grand Annual Communication of the Grand
Lodge.
"M. HELM, 1
J. N. RALSTON, }- Committee."
H. PRATHER. J
Brother Grand Secretary offered a substitute to the above resolutions,
as follows :
"Resolved, That the W. Grand Master be authorized, whenever a sufficient
explanation shall be made to him by the officers of Cass Lodge, to direct the
Grand Secretary to issue a charter to said Lodge.
" Which, on motion, was lost, and the original resolution was adopted."
Bro. Jonas offered the following, which was adopted :
"Resolved, That Bro. Grand Secretary communicate with Cass Lodge on the
conduct of Bro. John Daley, of that Lodge, and request that they take said
brother under dealing, and act thereon accordingly."
Bro. Lusk offered the following, which was laid over temporarily :
"1st. Resolved, That no Lodge under the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge
shall be allowed to ballot for a candidate for initiation except at a stated meeting,
nor in a shorter time than one lunar month from the reception of the petition,
except by dispensation from the M. W. Grand Master.
168 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"2d. Resolved, That a Lodge ought not to confer more than one degree on a
candidate in a shorter time than from one regular meeting to another, except in
cases of emergency, of which they are to be the judges, and in which unanimity
shall be required."
A dispensation was granted Bro. John Bennett and six others to form
and open a Lodge at Petersburg, Menard county, under the name of
Clinton. This is the petition referred to as being presented by Bro.
Shepherd.
Rising Sun Lodge, Iowa territory, was granted one year in which to
pay its dues and charter fee.
Resolutions of thanks to Breth. McNeill, Grand Chaplain, Jonathan
Nye, Past Grand Master of Vermont, the Trustees of the Presbyterian
Church, and to the "gentlemen who officiated as Musicians" were
passed.
The amendment to the By-Laws, offered by Bro. Helm, to change th'e
location of the Grand Lodge from Jacksonville to Springfield, " was
taken up and debated, the previous question being called by Bro. Prather,
was sustained by the Grand Lodge, and the amendment lost."
The report of the majority of the Committee on Returns and Work,
relating to Nauvoo Lodge, was taken up and adopted by a vote of Lodges,
the vote standing "Ayes 10, Nays 1."
P. G. M. Nye, the Grand Secretary, and Bro. Rogers, of Quincy, were
appointed a committee raised by the adoption of the report. It was not
very long after this that Bro. Warren visited Nauvoo in a totally differ-
ent character, appearing as the agent of an insulted and outraged peo-
ple, and carrying, as it were, the proclamation of Gov. Ford in one hand
and the sword in the other, instead of the olive branch.
The following resolutions, offered by Bro. Samuel H. Davis, of Peoria,
were adopted :
"Resolved, That in all cases where regular Lodges, now holding dispensations
or charters from other Grand Lodges, shall make application to come under the
jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge, no other fee shall be charged than the Secre-
tary's, and the W. Grand Master be authorized to issue them without waiting for
the action of the next annual communication of this Grand Lodge.
"Resolved, That the M. W. Jonathan Nye, P. G. M. of the Grand Lodge of Ver-
mont, be admitted an honorary member of this Grand Lodge, and be permitted
at all times a seat in the same as such."
The report of the committee on the proceedings of Nauvoo Lodge was
authorized to be published with the proceedings. Bro. Davis offered
the following, which was laid over one year :
"Amendment to By-Laws: Each subordinate Lodge shall have authority to fix
its own fees for conferring the three degrees and for membership, but no Lodge
shall charge a less sum than twenty dollars, nor more than thirty for the former
and not less than two, nor more than five for the latter: provided, that no charge
of membership shall be made against those who have received the three degrees
in the Lodge.
Bro. Shepherd, of No. 4, offered the following, which was laid over to
the next annual communication :
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 169
"WHEREAS, There have been several attempts made to remove the Grand
Lodge from Jacksonville to Springfield, and have as often failed; and,
"WHEREAS, The brethren and others of Springfield are anxious to have the
Grand Lodge to hold its meetings in their city, and believing in the parable of
the poor woman in the Scriptures; therefore,
"Resolved, That the first section of the By-Laws of the Grand Lodge be amended
by striking out the word 'Jacksonville,' and inserting 'Springfield' in its stead."
The Grand Lodge refused to adopt a motion to refund the dues of Ma-
con Lodge.
Bro. Davis offered the following, which was laid over :
"Amendment to By-Laws: Whenever the members in any subordinate Lodge
shall exceed fifty, such Lodge shall be divided; and whenever the average
members in attendance during a year shall be less than ten, then such Lodge
shall cease to exist, and shall surrender its charter or dispensation to the Grand
Lodge."
The following preamble and resolution, offered by Bro. Jonas, were
adopted :
"WHEREAS, It has been represented to this Grand Lodge that there are several
subordinate Lodges in this State working under the jurisdiction of the Grand
Lodge of Missouri; and,
" WHEREAS, This Grand Lodge is in a state of infancy, whilst the Grand Lodge
of Missouri is in a state of affluence— and not doubting her willingness to extend
the hand of friendship and assistance to her sister Grand Lodge; and believing,
moreover, that it would be conducive to the interests of Masonry that the Grand
Lodge of each State should govern and control the Masonic family within its
bounds; therefore,
"Resolved, That Bro. Grand Secretary be requested to visit the Grand Lodge of
Missouri at its next annual communication, and request said Grand Lodge (as
the Grand Lodge of Kentucky has done) to dissolve the connection existing
between themselves and the subordinate Lodges in the State of Illinois ; and,
further, to tender to said Grand Lodge the best wishes of this Grand Lodge for
her Masonic success, and our desire for an interchange of those social relations
which have characterized our Fraternity for so many ages."
Also the following:
"Resolved, That hereafter no Lodge acting under authority of this Grand Lodge,
either under dispensation or charter, be authorized to confer either of the
degrees of Masonry, or anything connected therewith, until the officers of the
same shall be installed by the Grand or Deputy Grand Master, or some Past
Master."
The resolutions offered by Bro. Lusk, regarding the laying over of
petitions one lunar month, and conferring of degrees in a shorter time
than should elapse from one regular meeting to another, were taken up,
and the first adopted, the second lost.
The Committee on Finance, by Bro. Shepherd, made the following
report:
"The Committee on Finance report that they have had the financial concerns
of the Grand Lodge of Illinois under consideration, and find them to be as fol-
lows:
"In the hands of the Grand Treasurer $28 25 State Bank Paper.
" " " " Secretary 290 00 " " "
"Total State Bank Paper $318 25
170 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"Also in hands Grand Secretary $43 00 Par Funds.
" " " " 27 50 Gold.
14 50 Specie.
"Total Amount of par funds $85 00
" LIABILITIES OP GRAND LODGE TO BE MET.
"A balance due from said Lodge to J. Adams of. .'. $109 00
"Supposed expenses of printing Minutes of Grand Lodge 30 00
"Services of the Grand Secretary during communication 20 00
"Services of Sexton of church 1 00
" To cash paid out for trimming lamps, oil, an J candles by Tyler 2 12%
"Services of Tyler for tyling Grand Lodge 4 00
"Total amount of liabilities $166 12J^
" Your committee not having as much time to make out their report as would
allow them to go into matters in detail, therefore offer the following resolutions:
"1st. Resolved, That the debt due from the Grand Lodge to James Adams,
late D. G. M., be paid to him at the close of the next communication, with 12 per
cent, interest from this date.
"2d. Resolved, That the Grand Secretary and Treasurer be allowed the privi-
lege, and required, if possible, to loan all the State Bank paper for one or more
years, at its face, with or without interest, to good men and approved securities.
"3d. Resolved, That hereafter the Grand Lodge will only receive from the
subordinate Lodges par funds for all moneys paid to the Grand Lodge.
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
"JAMES SHEPHERD.
"N. B.— Balance of available means, after meeting the supposed liabilities, is
$237.12% calling all the funds par funds."
"Resolved, That should the Grand Master deem it his duty, after receiving the
report of the Nauvoo committee, to continue the dispensation to Nauvoo Lodge,
it shall be the duty of said Lodge to pay up the balance of their Lodge dues,
before they are permitted to proceed with work.
"Resolved, That the Grand Master draw on the Treasurer to pay the expenses
of the Nauvoo committee, and Bro. Secretary's expenses in visiting the Grand
Lodge of Missouri."
The Grand Secretary and Treasurer reported as follows:
" W. B. WARREN, Grand Secretary, in account with the Grand Lodge of Illinois.
"1842. -DR.
"This amount on hand to purchase jewels, <fec $64 37
"Rec'd from Macon Lodge U. D. for dispensation 15 00
" Peoria, do 15 00
" " Virginia, do 15 00
" " Shawneetown, do 15 00
" " Vermilion, do in part 1300
" " Nauvoo, dispensation and dues in part 115 00
" Rushville, do 27 50
Rising Sun, do. 2625
" " Springfield, dues 33 00
" " Columbus, do.., 12 00
" " Macon, do...., 17 25
" Bodley, do.... 18 75
" " Clinton, for dispensation 15 00
Cass, for dues... 0 00
" " Harmony, do 16 50
"$427 62
HISTOKY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS. 171
" CONTRA.
'By 4 aprons furnished this communication $4 00
"Grand Secretary's fees received by G. Lodge last communication.. ..12 00
" Ribbons for jewels 3 75
"Postage and Stationery 2 43
"Services and expenses to Nauvoo, on the requisition of the Grand
Master, 6 days 25 00—47 18
"In hands and G. S. due Grand Lodge $380 44
"JACKSONVILLE, ILL., Oct. 5, 1842.
•' To the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois:
"The undersigned, Treasurer of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, would most
respectfully report that he received from the Grand Secretary, on the 4th of
October, 1841, $129. That he paid to Bro. James Adams, by order of the Grand
Master, 4th October, 1841, $50 ; that he paid for printing Constitution, By-Laws,
and oration by Bro. McDougall, $50.75, the vouchers for which I hereby submit,
making in the whole, $115.25. This sum being deducted from the amount re-
ceived from the Grand Secretary (129), leaves the sum of $18.25 in my hands.
"All of which is respectfully submitted to the M. W. Grand Lodge of Illinois.
"P. COFFMAN."
The Committee on Returns and Work recommended the granting of a
charter to Warren Lodge as No. 14, which was concurred in. The Com-
mittee on Foreign Communications reported as follows:
"The Committee on Foreign Communications ask leave to report that they
have examined the proceedings of the following named Grand Lodges, viz.:
The Grand Lodges of Kentucky, for the year 1841; Missouri, 1840 and 1841;
Indiana, 1841; North Carolina, 1840; Mississippi, 1842, and also a Masonic Cal-
endar of the Grand Lodge of the Republic of Texas, containing a list of the grand
officers and the Lodges subordinate thereto, and also a constitution of said Grand
Lodge. These are all the communications that have been received from Grand
Lodges.
" Your committee have not been able to find anything therein that requires the
immediate action of this Grand Lodge, or of general interest, except the action
of some of the Grand Lodges above named upon the proceedings of a Masonic
Convention, holden in Baltimore, in March, 1842, which your committee have
had under consideration, and. after mature deliberation, have been unable to
bring themselves to any definite conclusion as to the course that this Grand
Lodge ought to pursue, and therefore recommend that the proceedings of said
convention be read in open Lodges.
"Your committee offer the following resolution :
"Resolved, That this Grand Lodge reciprocate the courtesy of the Grand Lodges
from which communications have been received, and that the Grand Secretary,
as soon as convenient, transmit one copy of the proceedings of this Grand Lodge
at its present communication to each Grand Lodge in the United States, and to
such foreign Grand Lodges as he may have the address of. .
"L. L\JSK,
A. DUNLAP."
The Grand Lodge was then called from labor until 7 o'clock P. M.,
when it again assembled, and the report of the Committee on Foreign
Communications was adopted.
172 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
The Committee on Returns and Work having reported that no returns
had been received from Dixon No. 7, Juliet No. 8, Ottawa and Kaskas-
kia U. D., the Grand Secretary was /directed to correspond with these
Lodges, and ascertain their reasons for not doing so.
The following resolutions were adopted:
"Resolved, As the opinion of this Grand Lodge, that it is contrary and incon-
sistent with the ancient usages and precepts of our Order to withdraw from .1
subordinate Lodge without some good cause, or to reside in the neighborhood
of a subordinate Lodge without becoming a member thereof.
"Resolved, That the thanks of this Grand Lodge be presented to our worthy
P. W. G. M. Jonas, for the courtesy with which he has presided over the Grand
Lodge, and for the truly Masonic light and knowledge which he has on all
occasions disseminated in this Grand Lodge.
" On motion of D. G. M., it was resolved that a commitee be appointed to
apply for an act of incorporation to the next session of the Legislature
of Illinois, when the following committee was appointed : M. W. G.
Master, D. G. Master, and Bro. Shepard."
The Grand Lodge then closed.
The report of the committee appointed to investigate the affairs of
Nauvoo Lodge U. D., is appended to the proceedings, and is here given:
" REPORT or THE COMMITTEE OF INVESTIGATION.
"To the Most Worshipful Meredith Helm, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of
Illinois :
"The committee appointed to proceed to Nauvoo and investigate the charges
of irregularity which had been preferred against Nauvoo Lodge, U. D., have
performed that duty, and beg leave respectfully to report, that after a careful
and laborious examination of both persons and papers, they have, with due
•deference, concluded to submit the following suggestions and resolutions :
"The principal charges which had been made against the Lodge, your com-
mittee found groundless, and without proof to sustain them. Irregularities have
obtained in the work of the Lodge, which your committee think strike at once
at the vital principles of our Order, and the correction of which should not be
passed over in silence: 1st. The practice of balloting for more than one appli-
cant at one and the same time.
" The privilege of balloting for or against an applicant, your committee think
one of the inalienable rights of our time-honored Institution. The Lodge has
no right to introduce within its walls any applicant who may be obnoxious to
any one of its members. Neither has it the right to inquire into the motive
which actuated or influenced the ballot of any member.
"Should a member (forgetful of those Masonic principles so often inculcated
within our sacred walls) reject a worthy applicant out of private pique or malice,
the wrong is his own, and to his God alone is he accountable. And better far is
it, in the estimation of your committee, that worthy applicants should be rejected
time and again, than that the sacredness of the ballot box should be invaded.
" 2d. On one occasion an applicant, of at least doubtful character, was received
on a promise of reformation and restitution, with the view of holding his future
conduct in check, and making him a worthier and a better man. In this instance
the motive, your committee do not doubt, was good, but whilst they applaud the
motive, they must condemn the practice, as one fraught with too much danger
to the Craft ever to be indulged in.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 178
"In review of the whole subject, your committee find much to regret, much
to deplore — yet they can not bring themselves to believe that the good of the
Fraternity requires that the injunction should be perpetual; but on the con-
trary, that justice should be tempered with mercy, and therefore beg leave
to submit the following resolution:
"Resolved, That the dispensation of Nauvoo Lodge, U. D., be continued until
the next Grand Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, and
should the M. W. Grand Master approve our suggestions, that some brother be
appointed to attend at some given time, to remind the brethren of the irregu-
larity of their proceedings, and admonish them in the most friendly manner to
avoid all such in future.
"All of which is respectfully submitted by the committee.
"JONATHAN NYE,) _, ... „
W. B. WARREN. I09™"11"66"
Following this is the order of Grand Master Helm, which we also
give:
" Whereas, the Grand Lodge of Illinois, at its late regular annual communica-
tion, appointed a committee to repair to Nauvoo, and there, by examination of
persons and papers, diligently to inquire into certain alleged irregularities or
misconduct of Nauvoo Lodge, U. D.; and, whereas, the said committee having
discharged the duty assigned them, have reported to me that the principal
charges against said Lodge are entirely groundless, and that certain irregulari-
ties in the work of said Lodge, which have been practiced in some instances,
proceeded, in the opinion of the committee, from error of judgment rather than
of intention; and, whereas, the said committee, after a full, patient and laborious
investigation of the case, and in view of all the facts before them in connection
therewith, have unanimously recommended that the legal existence of said
Lodge be continued; and, whereas, the high moral character, general intelli-
gence, and extensive Masonic information and experience of the brethren
composing said committee, entitle their opinion and recommendations to my
entire confidence, and should remove from the minds of all any fears that may
have been entertained respecting the motives and designs of Nauvoo Lodge.
" Now, therefore, I, Meredith Helm, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of the
State of Illinois, by virtue of the authority vested in me, do hereby order and
adjudge that the injunction suspending the work of Nauvoo Lodge be removed,
that the dispensation granted to it by our late Grand Master A. Jonas be con-
tinued, and the said Lodge be and hereby is authorized and empowered to
resume work under said dispensation, as a regular Lodge, and carefully avoiding
the mistakes heretofore committed, and adhering to the ancient landmarks of
the Order, with the most scrupulous accuracy, to continue in operation till the
next regular communication of the Grand Lodge, to be held on the first Monday
of October next, at Jacksonville, Illinois, when and where the said Lodge is
hereby required to appear, by its legal representatives, with a copy of its pro-
ceedings, under the authority herein contained.
" Given under my hand and seal, at Springfield, this 2d day of November, A. D.
1842, A. L. 5842.
"MEREDITH HELM, G. M. O. L. S. I. JSEAL:
The membership reported by the several Lodges, at the Annual Com-
munication of 1842, we here give: Bodley No. 1, 25 ; Harmony No. 3,
23 : Springfield No. 4, 43 ; Columbus No. 6, 16 ; Macon No. 8, 22; Juliet
174 HISTORY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS.
No. 10, 25; Rushville U. D., 20; Western Star U. D., 23 ; Cass U. D., 12;
St. Johns U. D., 10 ; Nauvoo U. D., 253 ; Warren U. D., 8. Total report-
ed, 480.
BODLEY LODGE NO. 1.
But one raising is reported by this Lodge during 1842, which was that
of Bro. H. S. Cooley, on the third day of January. April 4th, a brother
who had been suspended, was reinstated, and the following reasons are
assigned for the reinstatement : "that he had made ample satisfaction to
the brother with whom he was at variance, and had also become a sober,
temperate and reformed man, and has joined the Washingtonian Tem-
perance Society, in which he has pledged his sacred honor, to abstain
from that beverage which never failed to destroy the qualities of a good
Mason." May 2d, "A letter was received and read from Nauvoo Lodge,
U. D., inviting Bodley Lodge No. 1 to participate with them in celebrat-
ing the aniversary of St. John, the 24th of June ; and on motion it was
resolved that the Secretary be directed to answer the communication,
declining to accept of the invitation, on account of the great distance,
and of our present pecuniary exigence, and that the Secretary also say
in his letter, that Bodley Lodge regrets that anything, extraneous from
pure Masonry, should be coupled with this communication, it having
been, throughout all ages, the peculiar characteristic of Masonry, that,
she has sent forth her pure flame of living light, before the world, un-
contaminated by political doings, and untinged by religious distinc-
tions."
To this, we heartily respond amen !
Bro. Coyne, the Secretary, was demitted, and Bro. Cooley appointed
in his stead.
June 3d, it was resolved that the correspondence between Bodley and
Nauvoo Lodges be laid before the Grand Lodge at its next communication.
The semi-annual election was then had, resulting in the election of
Breth. Harrison Dills, W. M.; Thomas Jasper, S. W.; T. C. King, J. W.;
T. Monroe, Treas.; H. S. Cooley, Sec.; J. N. Ralston and J. M. Pitman,
Deacons ; D. Hauser, Steward and Tyler.
July 16th, special meeting. Present : — H. Dills, W. M.; T. Jasper, S.
W.; T. C. King, J. W.; T. Monroe, Treas.; H. S. Cooley, Sec.; J. M. Pit-
man, S. D.; J. N. Ralston, J. D.; D. Hauser, Steward and Tyler, and Bros.
Davis, Maire, Rogers, Johnston, Swarthout, Conyers.
The W. M. stated the object of the meeting to be, to take into considera-
tion, the charges made against Nauvoo Lodge, U. D. After remarks^by
Bros. Rogers, Ralston, Conyers, Swarthout, and Davis, the following
preamble and resolutions were read :
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 175
" WHEREAS, It has come to the knowledge of Bodley Lodge No. 1, of Quincy,
from sources of information which can not be doubted, that Nauvoo Lodge U.
D. have, siuce the granting of their dispensation, conducted in a manner un-
Mnsonic, and highly dangerous and injurious to our beloved institution, to
subvert and destroy the great, good, and beneficial influences of Masonic prin-
ciples ; therefore
' Resolved, That the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of this State, be re-
of said charges into consideration, and dispose of the same in such manner as
they shall deem essential to the ends of justice, and the welfare and prosperity
of the institution of Masonry.
" And unanimously adopted. On motion, Bros. Davis and Ralston
were appointed a committee to furnish the Grand Master with the above
information. The following resolution was offered and adopted:
" Resolved, That Bodley Lodge No. 1, of Quiney, request of the Grand Lodge of
the State of Illinois, that a committee be appointed at the next annual meeting
of said Lodge, to make inquiry into the manner the officers of the Nauvoo Lodge,
IT. D., were installed, by the Grand Master of this State, and by what authority
the Grand Master initiated, passed, and raised Messsrs. Smith and Rigdon to the
degrees of Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft and Master Mason, at one and the
same time, and that the proceedings of the committee be reported for the bene-
fit of this Lodge."
All this goes to prove, first, that the Lodge at Nauvoo had became
involved in the same brawl as the "saints," and second, that the right
of the Grand Master to make Masons at sight (a right we doubt) was not
known in Illinois in 1842.
Sep. 7th, the W. M. and Wardens were appointed representatives to
the Grand Lodge. Sept. 18th, a communication was received from
Nauvoo Lodge, TJ. D., which was ordered to be laid before the Grand
Lodge. Oct. 3d, Bro. Dills resigned his office as W. M. No election was
had to fill the vacancy. Dec. 5th, an amendment to the by-laws was
introduced, providing that the elections should take place annually on
27th December, and at the meeting of Dec. 26th, the amendment was
lost. Dec. 26th, officers as follows were elected : J. B. Conyers, W. M.;
F. G. Johnston, S. W.; Daniel Stahl, J. W.; Damon Hauser, Trcas.:
James H. Luce, Sec.
EQUALITY LODGE NO. 102.
This Lodge still held under the Grand Lodge of Kentucky, although
borne on the list of the Grand Lodge of Illinois as No. 2.
J. F. Goulding, Feb. 5th; John M. Leech, Dec. 3d; Valentine F.
Evans, Dec. 10th, were the only brethren raised during this year.
Jan. 15th, the Lodge, being informed of the death of Bro. W. J. Gate-
wood, met and passed the customary resolutions.
Jan. 17th, the Lodge proceeded to New Haven, Gallatin county, and
there interred the remains of Bro. William Goss, of Brandon Lodge
No. , Vermont.
176 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
March 5th, Breth. Watkins and Jones were appointed a committee to
correspond with the Grand Lodge of Illinois, relative to procuring a
charter from that body.
May 7th the following action was had :
" The business next claiming the attention of the Lodge, and which
was called for by the W. M., was the report of the Corresponding Com-
mittee with the Grand Lodge of this State (appointed the 5th March
last), in regard to obtaining a charter from them, and surrendering our
present charter.
" In reply to this call, Brother Jos. E. Watkins, the only member of
the committee present, handed to the Secretary a letter from Brother W.
B. Warren, Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, which, as
directed, was read in the Lodge, at the conclusion of which, Bro. Jos. E.
Watkins made a motion, which was seconded, that the charter proffered
to us by the Secretary of the Grand Lodge in his letter just read, be ac-
cepted. But before any definite or final action was had on this motion,
Brother W. Siddall made a motion for arrest of action, believing, as he
said, that we were about to act prematurely or unadvisedly. Brother
Watkins then withdrew his motion, when a new motion was made that
the same Corresponding Committee till then in existance, be continued,
to carry on a correspondence with the Grand Lodge of Kentucky, with
the view of ascertaining upon what terms, with honor and credit to our-
selves, we could separate from her and attach to the Grand Lodge of
Illinois. Upon this motion the W. M. would, and did, appoint a new
committee, composed of Bros. Jos. E. Watkins, W. Siddall, and J. T.
Goulding."
June 24th, officers as follows were elected: A. W. Pool, W. M.; J.
W. Hamilton, S. W.; John M. Burnett, J. W.; J. T. Goulding, Treasurer;
William Siddall, Secretary; Jos. E. Watkins and John R. Smoote, Dea-
cons; John Howard, Tyler. Upon motion, the election of Treasurer and
Secretary were reconsidered, whereupon, Breth. Goulding and Siddall
exchanged places. It was resolved at this meeting to suspend all who
were in arrears, that did not pay within two weeks, but owing to the
stringency of the times, better counsels prevailed and Bro. Goulding
offered the following, which was "unanimously carried" : "Moved, that
the Lodge nullify the resolution of the 24th June, so far as regards sus-
pension."
Nov. 5th, the Lodge received a communication from the Grand Lodge
of Kentucky, authorizing the surrender of the charter from that Grand
Lodge, and the acceptance of one from the Grand Lodge of Illinois.
Bro. Goulding, the Secretary, waxed eloquent over what he termed the
"truly fraternal exertions" of M. W. Bro. Philip Swigert, for the interest
he manifested in furthering the request and desires of Equality Lodge.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 177
But as the record can state in better language the state of the Brother
Secretary's feelings at the time, than we could possibly do, we reproduce
the action had, simply remarking, that it is extremely doubtful if Bro.
Swigert ever received such a vote of thanks, as this, before or since :
" The Secretary also read a letter from the Grand Secretary of the
Grand Lodge of Kentucky, covering the proceedings before mentioned,
at the conclusion of which Bro. Hamilton suggested the propriety of
manifesting in some way, our respect and thanks to Bro. Swigert for the
part taken by him, in our behalf, in the Grand Lodge.
" J. T. Goulding now offered the following:
" WHEREAS, in the preamble and resolution of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky,
at its recent convocation, in relation to Equality Lodge No. 102, just now read,
as the spirit breathed throughout the letter accompanying paid preamble and
resolution, we cannot but note with feelings of unmixed gratitude, the zealous
fraternal regard and deep interest manifested by our much estemed, "true and
trusty" friend and brother Philip Swigert, in the welfare and prosperity of our
Lodge ; therefore
"Resolved, That we tender to our distinguished friend and brother, Philip.
Swigert, Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky, our warmest hand of
fellowship, in conjunction with our unsophisticated thanks, for his late urbane-
and truly fraternal exertions in our behalf, and beg him to accept our assurances,,
that "tho" far awa," he shall ever be held by us as he ought.
" Resolved, That the Secretary be directed to forward a copy of the foregoing
to our Bro. Philip Swigert, Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky.
" Which preamble and resolutions being read aloud by the Secretary,,
were unanimously adopted."
Dec. 27th, the regular annual election was held, resulting in the
election of the following brethren : A. W. Pool, W. M.; William Sid-
dall, S. W.; James W. Hamilton, J. W.; J. M. Leech, Treas.; J. T.
Goulding, Sec.; Watkins and Hopper, Deacons ; John Howard, Tyler.
The Lodge had all this time been waiting patiently for the "promised
charter, on parchment," as the record has it, but the year 1842 closed
without the sight of that instrument gladdening their eyes.
HARMONt LODGE NO. 3.
We have no records of this Lodge for 1842, and consequently are noi
able to state anything in regard to it, except presenting the return made
to the Grand Lodge, which met in October, 1842, by which we learn that
the following brethren were the officers : George Hackett, W. M. ;
C. Ludlum, S. W.,- A. V. Putnam, J. W.; W. W. Happy, Treas.; W. B.
Warren, Sec.: J. A. McDougall, S. D. : J. T. Sigler, J. D. ; M. Stacy,
Steward and Tyler.
The members were John T. Jones, Alexander Dunlap, Philip Coffman,
John Gregory, S. W. Lucas, Richard Henry, George Henry, Dennis
Rockwell, J. M. Lucas, J. T. Holmes, Clark Roberts, Adolphus Cerrill,
A. C. Dickson, A. L. Underwood, F. C., and Aaron Dickerson, E. A.
The only work done during the year was one initiation. Of the
members and officers given above, Bro. Dunlap was Deputv Grand Mas-
1 O
178 HISTORY OF MASONKY IX ILLINOIS.
ter; Warren, Grand Secretary; Coffman, Grand Treasurer; Hackett,
Grand Tyler; Dickson, Grand Marshal; Gregory, Grand Pursuivant;
and Putnam, Grand Steward.
SPRINGFIELD LODGE NO. 4.
This Lodge increased its membership, by raisings during the year
1842, as here given: M. McXamara, Jan. 24; C. W. Matheny, March
21; James H. Matheny, April 18; William Lavely and E. S. Frazier,
June fi ; Martin S. Morris, June 22; William Walters, Dec. 12.
January 9, the Lodge buried the remains of Bro. William J. Gate-
wood, at the time of his decease Master of Equality Lodge No. 102.
The record in this case we transfer entire :
" The Springfield Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons, upon their
return this day from the funeral of the late Hon. William J. Gatewood,
•whose remains had been attended to the place of interment by the
brethren of the said Lodge in procession, and interred according to the
ancient rites and customs of the Fraternity, passed the following reso-
lutions:
" WHEREAS, We have just witnessed the last sad and solemn obsequies of our
late worthy brother, the Hon. William J. Gatewood, who died suddenly in this
city, at 11 o'clock last evening, therefore,
'•Resolved, That we deeply regret and deplore the death of our late worthy
brother, whose remains we have so recently committed to the silent tomb, and
that we unite with heartfelt sympathy with his friends and family in their
present affliction.
"Resolved, that as a testimony of respect to the metnory of the deceased, each
of the brethren of this Lodge shall wear crape on his left arm for the space of
ten days.
"Resolved, That in the further testimony of respect for his memory, and of
profound sympathy with his bereaved family, a committee of three members of
this Lodge be directed to transmit a copy of these resolutions to the widow of
our deceased brother, the Hon. William J. Gatewood, and that the editors of the
Springfield papers be requested to publish them.
" Whereupon, Breth. Brown, Shields, and Treat were appointed that
committee.
" On motion, the Lodge adjourned."
February 25, the Lodge bore to their last resting place the remains of
Br.o. Marcellus Eastham, a member of the Lodge.
April 18, the petition of William Lavely was received and referred,
and on May 23 he was elected and initiated. June 1, Bro. Lavely was
passed.
June 28, the Lodge proceeded to an election, which resulted as follows :
James Shepherd was elected W. M. ; William Harvey, S. W. ; James
Zwisler, J. W. ; Maurice Doyle, Treasurer; Edward Jones, Secretary;
Francis Springer, Chaplain; James Maxcy, Tyler.
Sept. 19, Bro. Harvey, S. W., resigned, when Bro. James Zwisler was
elected to fill the vacancy; this promotion of Bro. Zwisler caused a
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 179
yacation of the station of the J. W., which was filled by the election of
Francis Springer.
Nov. 28, Breth. Philo Beers, J. R. Gray, James Briggs, James Firey,
and Daniel Turney were stricken from the roll for non-payment of dues.
The following officers were elected on St. John's Day, Dec. 27 : Francis
A. McNeill, W. M.; James Zwisler, S. W. : George R. Weber, J. W.;
Maurice Doyle, Treasurer; Edward Jones, Secretary; James Maxcy,
Tyler. Breth. Garland and Chatterton were appointed Deacons, and
James Shepherd Master of Ceremonies.
FAR WEST LODGE NO. 29.
This Lodge still held its charter from the Grand Lodge of Missouri,
although borne upon the books of the Grand Lodge of Illinois as No. 5.
The report before us extends from Sept. 25, 1841, to Sept. 24, 1842, and
from it we gather that the following were raised during 1842, or rather
up to September 24th of that year: J. M. Sullivan, May 21; S. Alex,
and D. B. Whitesides, June 24; L. Peyton and J. B. Latham, July 28.
There is not much to note in the minutes before us, as they are a very
short abstract of the doings of the Lodge, excepting that on August
20th, 1842, a petition for a Lodge at Dubuque, Iowa Territory, was recom-
mended.
The return, or so much of it as relates to the officers and members, we
present here in full :
" Officers. — Charles Gear, Master; James Rice, Senior Warden; A. C.
Davis, Junior Warden : Daniel Wann, Treasurer; John Turney, Secre-
tary ; A. T. Crow, Senior Deacon ; James Stewart, Junior Deacon ; J. E.
Smith and R. Pattison, Stewards; Robert Dunlap, Tyler.
" Master Masons. — Thomas C. Legate, E. W. Turner, Matthew Fawcett,
W. F. Franklin, F. J. Dunn, T. B. Farnsworth, A. J. Jackson, John
McNulty, Wm. B. Whiteside, Sam'l Alex, John S. Crawford, E. F.
Ogden, Thomas Clark, R. Long, D. B. Morehouse, David Wells, T. Fan-
ning, H. H. Gear, Sam'l Smoker, M. J. Sullivan, Geo. W. Cummings,
Lucien Peyton, Sam'l McLean, W. H. Hooper, Wm. Campbell, Gideon
Low, Dan'l F. Hitt, G. M. Mitchell, Robt. Thompson, Jos. Doplar, J. B.
Latham, N. Nadeau.
"Fellow Craft Masons. — Michael Wall, John Flanagan, James B.
Ooble, H. C. McGraw.
" Entered Apprentices. — John French, John McNulty, Jr., J. T. Temple.
" Initiations.— W. B. Whitesides, Feb. 5: M. J. Sullavan, Feb. 19;
J. B. Latham, March 20; S. Alex, May 21; G. W. Cummings, May 21 :
N. Nadeau, June 10: H. C. McGraw, June 24: John French, J. B.
Ooble, and Lucien Peyton, July 16 : John Flanagan, July 28 : John T .
Temple, Sept. 24.
180 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"Admissions. — T. Fanning, Jan. 22; David Wells, June 18; J. S,
Crawford, June 18.
"Deaths. — John Sherman, died abroad in the winter of 1841-2.
" Rejections. — Miles M. Vineyard, of Wisconsin, Sept. 24."
COLUMBUS LODGE NO. 6.
As regards this Lodge, we must be content with presenting the returns,
of the Lodge to the Grand Lodge in 1842 :
" MEMBERS. — Abraham Jonas, W. M.; Samuel Smith, S. W.; Abner J,
Short, J. W.; Anthony Touzalen, Tyler ; W. D. McCann, Sec.; Thomas
Durant and James S. Logan, Stewards; Lytle Griffing, S. D.; David P.
McNeal, J. D.; Cyrus N. Williams, Tyler.
"MASTER MASONS. — Daniel Harrison, Lytle Griffing, George W.
Thompson, W. D. McCann, Wm. Bayne, Willis H. Chapman, D. P.
McNeal, T. Durant, Minus L. Williams, A. J. Short, Anthony Touzalen,
S. Smith, J. S. Logan, C. M. Williams, M. L. Hudnel."
FRIENDSHIP LODGE NO. 7.
The Lodge conferred the Master's degree upon the brethren named1
below during the year 1842 : Abram Brown, March 25 ; J. E. Sawyer,
May 5; Wilkinson, June 3; Wm. Rodgers and L. L. Scott, June 23.
March 24, tha Lodge met in the upper room of the Dixon Hotel, when
the following brethren were present: Samuel Johnson, G. A. Martin,
William A. Merritt, Horace Preston, Stephen Fuller, Nathan Morehouse,
Isaac Robinson, Smith Gilbraith, D. B. MoKenney, R. B. Loveland,
James McKenney, T. H. March, James Campbell. The charter granted
by the Grand Lodge was received, and the Lodge duly constituted as
Friendship Lodge No. 8, which as will be hereafter seen was a mistake,
as far as the number was concerned. The following officers were then
duly installed : Samuel Johnson, W. M.; G. A. Martin, S. W.: William
A. Merritt, as proxy for John VanArnam, J. W.; R. B. Loveland, Sec.;
James McKenney, Treas.; Horace Preston, S. D.; T. H. March, J. D.; T.
H. March and D. B. McKenney, Stewards; and S. Gilbraith, Tyler.
May 5, the Lodge voted to celebrate St. John's Day, which on the 24th
of June was duly carried out. The following visiting brethren were
present at this celebration : Mathew McKenney, N. G. Reynolds, Wil-
liam A. Weston, Henry Maxwell, J. B. Morton, S. McFarland, and Na-
than Whitney. July 21, Charges of " violation of the laws of the land"
were preferred against a brother, who was thereupon suspended, during
the investigation of the case. This Lodge did not, as was the custom in
the majority of the Lodges of that day, elect officers semi-annually.
HISTOKY OF MASONRY IDT ILLINOIS. 181
MACON LODGE, U. D.
The brethren whose names are given below were raised during 1842,
by this Lodge : John P. Tenbrook, Jan. 22 ; H. J. Armstrong, Feb. 21 ;
J. J. Peddicord, April 6 ; J. T. Braden and A. Edmunds, April 28 ; D.
E. Kails and Preston Butler, June 15; H. Robinson, Sept. 17. June 15,
being the regular time for election, it was on motion of Bro. Oglesby,
resolved that the present officers retain their places until the next regu-
lar election, which was a very easy way of electing officers, besides a great
saving of time and wear of mind consequent upon the mental reflection
necessary to be exercised in as to whom should be elected.
June 24, was celebrated by laying the corner-stone of their " future
Masonic Hall." Unless misinformed, this Hall is still in the future.
Twenty-one members of the Lodge were present, and the following from
Springfield Lodge No. 4: C. W. Matheny, J. H. Matheny, James Shep-
herd, A. Y. Ellis, M. F. Wickersham, William Harvey, Edward Jones,
Geo. R. Weber, Samuel Matlack, Z. P. Cabanis, James Zwisler, L. Hes-
ser, Henry Carrigan, S. H. Treat, Johnson, M. Helm (who acted as
Grand Master) J. B. Broadwell, John Bennett, M. S. Morris, F. A.
McNeil, John Uhler, Read, Francis Springer, N. A. Garland, C. W.
Chatterton, Aug. Hays, and E. Stout. Breth. John D. Goriu and Q. C.
Alexander, of Vandalia, were also present. After the laying of the
corner-stone, the Lodge was duly constituted as Maeon Lodge No. 8, this
making the second Lodge in the State bearing that number. The offi-
cers installed at that time were : G. A. Patterson, W. M.; J. King, S.
W.; H. Prather, J. W.; J. R. Gorin, Sec.; A. S. Williams, Treas.; E.
League, S. D.; J. S. Post, J. D.; James Ashton, Tyler.
July 17, we observe the first record made by M. W. Bro. Gorin, twenty-
six years ago. He wrote a much better hand then than now, which
to us is a matter of congratulation, as it is easily read, whereas, if Bro.
Gorin had written it at the present day, it would be somewhat a matter
of doubt whether we should have attempted to read it at all. There is
in the whole western country but one man, or rather brother, who can
bear off the palm over Bro. Gorin for rapid, undecipherable chirography,
and that is one who has enjoyed a like eminence in the councils of
the Craft in a neighboring State, and to make it perfectly sure, we will
call it Iowa.
, September 17, the delegates to the Grand Lodge were directed to vote
for Springfield, as the place of meeting of the Grand Lodge. A com-
munication from Nauvoo Lodge was ordered to lie on the table. Dec.
17, officers as follows were elected : Henry Prather, W. M.; Charles H.
Pringle, S. W.; Warner W. Oglesby, J. W.; Wm. B. Bosworth, Sec.; H .
182 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS
J. Armstrong, Treas.; Geo. A. Patterson, Chaplain; Henry Hummel, S.
and Tyler.
RUSHVILLE LODGE NO. 9.
From R. "W. Bro. Bagby we learn that the old records of this Lodge
were destroyed by fire, when the lodge- room in the town of Rushville was
burned. We are therefore unable to give any information concerning
the Lodge, other than can be gleaned from the proceedings of the Grand
Lodge. From the returns of this Lodge to the Grand Lodge in 1842, we
find that the officers and members were as follows : Levi Lusk, W. M.;
James L. Anderson, S. W.; John Todhunter, J. "W.; James McCroskey,
Treas.: Adams Dunlap, Sec.; John B. Seeley, S. D.; William Edgar, J.
D.; Thomas J. Garrett, Tyler. The members in addition to the above
named officers, were Samuel McHatton, William Davis, Abner McDow-
ell, Josiah Parrott, Lewis Horton, Henry Murray, James H. Chick, Rens-
salaer Wells, Marshall Smith, Alexander Brazleton, Nathan Brooks,
Hart Fellows ; Andrew LaCroix, Isaac E wing, Isaac Grier, George Edgar,
Joseph Montgomery, William A.Richardson, Fellow Crafts; and Peter C.
Vance, Solomon C. Waid, Tydence W. Lane, and George Rogers, Entered
Apprentices. The dispensation for this Lodge was granted by Grand
Master Jonas, after the close of the communication of the Grand Lodge
in 1841, but the precise date we have been unable to ascertain.
JULIET LODGE NO. 10
Whence the dispensation for this Lodge emanated, we have been unable
to learn, but are inclined to the opinion that it was granted by M. W.
Bro. Jonas. The first mention made of this Lodge is in the proceedings
of 1841, at which grand communication a petition was presented from
this Lodge praying for a charter. That it had been in existence, and
that the word " Charter" was not a mistake for the word " Dispensation,"
is plainly to be seen by the very next entry, wherein a petition was pre-
sented for a new Lodge at Chicago, which petition was recommended
by Juliet Lodge. We have been unable to obtain any further informa-
tion concerning this Lodge, than is afforded in the proceedings of the
Grand Lodge. The returns to the Grand Lodge for 1842, we here pre-
sent:
" Members of Juliet Lodge No. 10, Juliet. — Norman Hawley, W. M.;
Thomas J. Wade, S. W.; Joel George, J. W.; Fenner Aldrich, Treas,.:
Justus Finch, Jr., Sec.; Orange Chancy, S. D.; Thomas J. Kinney, J. D.;
D. L. Gregg and James Broady, Stewards ; Jared Runyon, Tyler. Mas-
ter Masons, E. Haveris, Hiram Blanchard, Myron K. Brownson, Joshua
Rucker, Joel A. Matteson, William B. Peck, Joshua Smith, E. Weather-
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 183
bee, Thomas Williams, Robert G. Cook, Henry G. Brown, N. S.Anderson,
William E. Little, Samuel Anderson, David -Parish."
This Lodge was chartered as No. 10 in 1841, but was not represented at
the Grand Lodge of 1842.
CASS LODGE, U. D.
The dispensation for this Lodge was granted by Bro. Jonas, in the
year 1842, and at the Grand Lodge of that year a charter was voted as
No. 11, but was at the same meeting reconsidered and the Lodge con-
tinued under dispensation. We have no record of this Lodge while
under dispensation, and can only give its return to the Grand Lodge for
1842, which is as follows :
"Members of Cass Lodge, U. D., at Virginia. — P. Underwood, Jr., W.
M.; Amos Bonney, S. W.; William Bassett, J. W.; Ezra J. Dutch, Treas.;
N. B. Thompson, Sec. Master Masons, James Knowles, Alfred Dutch,
S. C. Lyon, C. S. VanAlstine, Thomas Eyre, James Logan, John Daley."
The initiating, passing, and raising of the latter brother, (who had
been rejected by Springfield No. 4,) was the cause that led the Grand
Lodge to reconsider its action granting a charter.
WESTERN STAR LODGE, U. D.
The dispensation for this Lodge has already been given. It was not
represented at the Grand Lodge in 1842, and no action beyond directing
the Grand Secretary to call upon the Lodge for its returns was had in
regard to it, but it was suffered to work quietly under its dispensation.
The return for 1842, which was received after the closing of the Grand
Lodge, is here given :
"Members of Western Star Lodge, U. D., Kaskaskia. — R. B. Servant,
W. M.; G. W. Staley, S. W.; G. W. Entler, J. W.; B. P. Simmons, Sec.;
Jacob Feaman, Treas.; Ignatius Spriggs, S. D.; J. L. P. Perry, J. D.; A.
Keefer, Tyler. Master Masons, Michael Buyatte, James Roberts, Fer-
dinand Onjer, J. W. Gilliss, D. C. Jones, M. L. Brooks, W. E. Jones,
Samuel F. Ashby, William Jackson, William Koker, George Brush,
Passal Craddok, John Yarantzy, Benjamin Wittsheir, Gustavus Hol-
land." Of these Breth. Buvjitte^ Roberts, Onjer, and Gillis will be re-
cognized as members of old Western. Star Lodge !No. 10V, as early as
1819.
RISING SUN LODGE NO. 12.
• The dispensation for this Lodge was granted in 1842, to a number of
brethren residing in Montrose, Lee county, Territory of Iowa. Although
the Committee on Returns and Work reported that they had examined
the returns and work of this Lodge, yet no returns appear in the pub-
lished proceedings. This Lodge is not now in existence.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS.
NAUVOO LODGE, U. D.
The dispensation for this Lodge was granted Oct. 15, 1841, and set to
work by Grand Master Jonas, on the 15th March, 1842. From March
15, 1842, up to the sitting of the Grand Lodge, this Lodge initiated 286
candidates, and raised 243; and we must therefore be excused from
giving the names. If the Lodge had been suffered to work two years
longer, every Mormon in Hancock county would have been initiated.
The officers of this Lodge were as follows: George Miller, "W. M.; Hy-
rum Smith, S. W.; Lucius N. Scovill, J. W.; William Clayton, Sec.;
Newel K. Whitney, Treas.; Charles Allen, S. D.; Heber C. Kimball, J.
D.; Wm. Felshaw and Hyrum Clark, Stewards; Samuel Rolfe, Tyler."
We will have, further on in this History, more to say in regard to
this Lodge and the men who composed it.
ST. JOHN'S LODGE NO. 13.
But one brother was raised in this Lodge during the year 1842, viz:
Stephen W. Paine, March 31. January 30, Bro. M. J. Boss, who died
January 28, was buried with the honors of Masonry. Bro. Ross was one
of the founders of the Lodge. September 22, the Lodge resolved to ap-
ply to the Grand Lodge for a charter, and passed the following resolu-
tion:
"Also voted, That on account of the retired situation of Vermilionville, and
by the advice of a number of brethren of Peru, we after mature consideration,
think it for the interest of the Institution to remove this Lodge to that place,
and ask the Grand Lodge to grant a charter for this Lodge at that place."
At the meeting of October 13, the name of Warren Brown appears
among the members. After a careful examination and considerable in-
quiry, we find that it is the same Bro. Warren Brown that was at one
time Secretary of Western Star Lodge Xo. 107. December 15, officers as
follows were elected : L. Woodward, W. M.; Harmer Whitehead, S. W.;
Samuel Norton. J. W.: Hennessy, Treas.; O'Connor, Sec.; War-
ren Brown, S. D.; A. Kirkpatrick, J. D.; A. Holdridge, Tyler.
WARREN LODGE, U. D.
The record of the first meeting of this Lodge we here present :
" Pursuant to a dispensation granted by A. Jonas, M. W. Grand Mas-
ter of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, bearing date the 16th day of July,
A. D. 1841, A. L. 5841, granting to certain members of the honorable
fraternity of Ancient York Masons, the privilege of opening a Lodge in
Shawneetown, in the county of Gallatin and State of Illinois, a number
of the Craft by previous arrangement met at their lodge-room in said
town, on the 6th day of August, A. D. 1842, A. L. 5842.
HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 185
"Present: Jos. J. Johnson, D. G. M. p. t.; 11. Wilson, of Equality
Lodge No. 102 ; J. R. Sraoot, of Equality Lodge No. 102; George Darab,
of Randolph Lodge No. 87, Tennessee; Alex. Kirkpatrick, S. S. Scudder,
of Equality Lodge No. 102; George Cobb, E. H. Gatewood, of Equality
Lodge No. 102 ; Wm. H. Davidson, P. Slater, Eobert H. Marron, of Rich-
mond Randolph Lodge, Virginia. The Lodge was opened in the 3d de-
gree according to ancient form and usage, at which time the W. M.,
Joseph Johnson, installed according to ancient rite, R. H. Marron, W.
E. H. Gatewood, S. D.; Geo. Webb, J. D.; Geo. Darah, Sec.; A. Kirkpat-
rick, Treas.; S. S. Scudder, S. D.; J. R. Smoot, J. D.; II. Wilson, Tyler.
"Resolved, On motion, that the By-Laws of Equality Lodge be substituted for
the government of this Lodge, so far as applicable for the present, until other-
wise directed.
" On motion,
"Resolved, That Bro. Johnson and Kirkpatrick be appointed to revise the By-
Laws of Equality Lodge for the consideration of this Lodge, and report at our
first regular Communication.
" On motion,
"Resolved, That our first regular Communication be on Saturday week next,
the 13th inst. No further business appearing, this closed in due and ancient
form.
(Signed) " ROBERT MARRON, W. M.
" Test, GEO. DARAH, Sec^y."
The following is a list of raisings by this Lodge during 1842: J. H.
Johnson, Sept. 28; E. Bogardus and J. B. Caldwell, Oct. 27; J. L. Camp-
bell and William Hilburne, Nov. 24; T. G. S. Herod, F. M. Leech, Nov.
26 ; J. W. Tunnell and Robert Kirkham, Dec. 1 ; J. M. Jones and D. N.
Hamilton, Dec. 3; M. Y. Johnson, Dec. 5; J. H. Hart, Dec. 8; John Gal-
laher and James Melvin, Dec. 10; John G. Stewart, Dec. 15; E. R. Roe
and G. J. Barrett, Dec. 22 ; C. R. Smith, Dec. 26. September 28, Bro.
John T. Jones, of Jacksonville, was appointed to represent the Lodge at
the next session of the Grand Lodge. At the meeting of December 1,
the Steward was " directed to provide a strictly temperance lunch for
each Lodge evening unless otherwise instructed."
December 27, the charter granted by the Grand Lodge was received
and accepted, and the Lodge constituted as No. 14. At this meeting the
following officers were elected: Joseph Johnson, W. M.; E. H. Gate-
wood, S. W.; E. Bogardus, J. W.; A. Kirkpatrick, Treas.; J. L. Campbell,
Sec.; S. S. Scudder, S. D. and Senior Steward ; J. B. Caldwell, J. D. and
Junior Steward ; William Hilborn, Tyler. The officers were then duly
installed "at the Presbyterian Church, where an oration was delivered
by Bro. Jos. Johnson." The date of dispensation given in the record of
the first meeting is an error; it should have read July 16, 1842 and not
1841. Of the members whose names appear on the record as officers,
186 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
Gatewood, Scudder, and Smoot were made in Equality Lodge. Bro. Wil-
son joined that Lodge by affiliation, and was at one time its Master.
PEORIA LODGE, U. D.
As the record of the first meeting of this Lodge expresses much better
than we could do the proceedings at its organization, we here give them
entire, as well as the preliminary record, remarking that the record of
the dispensation, which is recorded in full, is omitted, as it is almost
exactly similar to the form now used :
" In the month of September, in the year of our Lord one thousand
eight hundred and forty, ten brethren residing in Peoria, in the county
of Peoria and State of Illinois, and the neighborhood, met in the second
story of the house at the corner of Main and Adams Streets, in said town
of Peoria, and after consultation, agreed to make application to the
Grand Lodge of the said State of Illinois for a dispensation. Their
names were as follows : Samuel H. Davis, Augustus 0. Garrett, John
King, George Farrell, James Mossman, Xathaniel Chapin, George H.
Quigg, Frederick Semelroth.
" They recommended Samuel H. Davis as Master, Augustus 0. Garrett
as Senior Warden, and John King as Junior Warden. The application
was vouched for by the Ottawa Lodge, and forwarded to the Grand
Lodge to be laid before that body at its meeting in that or the ensuing
month. The case came before the Grand Lodge, but as that body knew
nothing of the Ottawa Lodge, (the latter working under a foreign dis-
pensation) the application could not be granted, and thus the matter
rested till December, A. D. 1841. In that month it became known that
the Grand Lodge were satisfied with the regularity of the Ottawa Lodge,
and accordingly accepted its recommendation for a petition ,• upon ap-
plication therefor, a dispensation was granted.
" Under this dispensation, a number of brethren met at Garrett's Hotel,
in the town of Peoria aforesaid, in a suitable room therein provided, on
the night of January the 8th, A. D. 1842. Present: Samuel H. Davis,
W. M.: Augustus 0. Garrett, S. W.; James Mossman, J. W., pro tern.;
William Mitchell, Sec., pro tern.; Peter Sweat, Treas., pro tern.; Andrew
Hunt, S. D., pro tern.; Frederick Semelroth, J. D. and Tyler, pro tern.;
George Farrell. Visitors : Samuel Rodecher, Ottawa Lodge ; William
Mitchell, Palatine Lodge, Sunderland, England; Peter Sweat, Andrew
M. Hunt, Hannibal Lodge, Oswego county, N. Y. Entered Apprentice's
Lodge opened in due form. Fellow Craft's Lodge opened in due form.
Master Mason's Lodge opened in due form.
" The following brethren made application for membership, and it
being declared by the Lodge a case of emergency, they were forthwith
balloted for and admitted, viz.: Peter Sweat, Samuel Rodecken, Andrew
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 187
M. Hunt, and William Mitchell. The Lodge then proceeded to the elec-
tion of such officers as were not appointed in the dispensation, when the
following persons were unanimously elected : William Mitchell as Sec-
retary, and Frederick Semelroth, as Tyler. Breth. Andrew M. Hunt,
Peter Sweat, and Frederick Semelroth were appointed a' committee to
procure the necessary furniture for the Lodge.
"Breth. Mitchell, Garret, and Mossman were appointed a committee to
draft Bye-Laws for the Lodge. The W. M.,on motion, was added to this
committee.
"On motion,
"Rf.wlved, That such of the brethren as can make it convenient, will attend at
the Lodge every Saturday evening, at half past six o'clock, for instruction, and
that the monthly meetings be determined by the committee appointed on the
Bye-L;uvs.
"Closed in due form (i. e. severally in the three degrees.)"
The dispensation was granted to Breth. Samuel H. Davis, Augustus 0.
Garrett, John King, " and several other brethren." Bro. Davis was
named as the Master; Garrett as S. W. ; and King, as J. W. It was
granted January 3, 1842, by Bro. Jonas, Grand Master.
Geo. W. Rodecker, March 12 ; Chester Hamlin and Ralph Hamlin,
March 15; George T. Metcalfe, March 19; Thomas J. Hurd, March 22;
Isaac Underbill, March 26 ; J. D. Finch, March 29 ; Rodol-phus Rouse,
April 1 ; C. D. Powell and Leonard Knott, April 14 ; Wanton Parker,
July 16 ; Frederick Parker, July 30; Joseph Tnmstine, Sept. 12; Charles
E. Mason, Sept. 17 — were raised.
TEMPERANCE LODGE No. 27.
The brethren upon whom the third degree was conferred by this_
Lodge during the year 1842, are as follows : Julian Hulaniski, June-22 ;
R. H. Pill, Aug. 16 ; John R. Hall, Aug. 24.
June 13, the following officers were elected: D. B. Hodge, W. M. ;
H. C. Remann, S. W. ; W. T. Hopkins, J. W. ; the Secretary, Treasurer,
Deacons, and Tyler were re-electedr
Sept. 26, the following was passed :.
"WHEREAS, It is deemed expedient and proper that Lodges within the several
States should be under the jurisdiction of the respective Grand Lodges of those
States; therefore,
"Resolved, That our representative to the next annual communication of the
Grand Lodge of Missouri, be instructed respectfully to ask leave on the behalf
of this Lodge to be relieved from the jurisdiction of said Grand Lodge, for the
purpose of becoming subordinate to the Grand Lodge of Illinois."
Dec. 21, the following record was made :
"Since the last meeting (Oct. 10), this Lodge discharged all dues to
the Grand Lodge of Missouri, and received a discharge from its juris-
188 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
diction, and an application was made to the Grand Lodge of Illinois,
through the M. W. G. M. Meredith Helm, for a charter.
"This charter was received this day, the 21st Dec., and, on motion,
the charter was accepted, and the blanks filled in accordance with the
instructions of the Grand Secretary of Illinois, and the charter and
letter of the Grand Secretary ordered to be spread upon the records of
this Lodge, and that the Secretary be required to procure some safe mode
of keeping the same in the Lodge, and for the convenience of visitors.
" COPT OF THE LETTER OF THE GRAND SECRETARY OF ILLINOIS ACCOMPANYING THE CHARTER
OF TEMPERANCE LODGE No. 1C.
"JACKSONVILLE, Dec. 13th, 1842.
•' D. B. Hodge, Esq. :
"DEAR SIR AND BROTHER :— By this day's mail I send you a charter. You will
perceive that the names of the petitioners, Senior and Junior Wardens, and
name of the Lodge are left blank, in consequence of my having no means of
filling their place. Please insert them yourself. The charter would have been
sent at an earlier day, but I still thought I should meet with some private
conveyance.
" With great respect, I am Fraternally yours,
"W. B. WARREN.
"The W. M., D. B. Hodge, filled the blanks in, the charter, and the
Lodge resolved to accept the same and ordered it to be recorded, the
Lodge being open on the third degree of Masonry."
Then follows the charter, which being of the same form as those used
at the present day, we will omit.
Temperance Lodge No. 27 was then closed, and
TEMPERANCE LODGE No. 16
opened. " Present: D. B. Hodge, W. M. ; H. C.tRemann, S. W.; John
R. Hall, J. W., pro tern.; J. D. Gorin, Treas. ; Q. C. Alexander, Sec.:
N. M. McCurdy, S. D.; William Hodge, J. D. ; Moses Phillips, Tyler:
R. H. Pill, M. M." /
The Lodge then proceeded to an election of officers, which resulted in
the election of the following brethren: Henry C. Remann, W. M :
William Hodge, S. W.; John R. Hall, J. W.; R. H. Pill, Treas.; D. B.
Hodge, Sec.; Moses Philips, Tyler.
Dec. 27, the Lodge assembled for the purpose of installing the officers
and constituting the Lodge, but the proxy of the Grand Master (Bro.
McCurdy), refused to perform that duty, whereupon the installation and
constitution was postponed until the Grand Master could be corres-
ponded with.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 189
UNDER THE JURISDICTION OF THE GRAND
LODGE OF MISSOURI.
FRANKLIN LODGE NO 22.
Breth. Leonard B. Adams, Jan. 25th; D. F. Wendell, June 10th, were
raised. There does not appear any entries of sufficient importance to
merit especial mention, except that at the meeting of Sept. 7th the
Lodge was moved to Upper Alton, and that on the 17th December the
following officers were elected : Charles Howard, W. M.; R. McFarland,
S. W.; J. A. Maxey, J. W.; H. S. Summers, Treas.; H. P. Rundle, Sec.;
D. F. Wendell, Tyler.
FAR WEST LODGE NO. 29.
We have the following information concerning this Lodge for 1842 :
Oct. 15th, Bro. H. C. McGrew was raised. Dec. 17th, Nicholas Wall
raised. Dec. 27th, the following officers were elected : Charles Gear,
W. M.; James Rice, S. W.; H. H. Gear. J. W.; John Turney, Treas.;
Richard Pattison, Sec. The following appointments were made: H. C.
McGrew, S. D.; John E. Smith, J. D.; William Campbell, Tyler.
HILLSBORO NO. 33.
This Lodge was formerly called Mount Moriah, but was chartered as
Hillsboro. The Master's degree was conferred on seven brethren during
1842, viz. : John P. Frame, Jan. 28th ; William B. Herrick, Jan. 29th :
Augustus Knight, Jan. 31st: R. W. Wellington and James Harriott,
May 20th ; John W. Canaday, Aug. 25th ; William H. Roberts, Dec.
15th.
Aug. 18th, Bro. Blockburger, W. M., tendered his resignation, and
asked a demit. Both the resignation and request were laid on the table
until August 25th, and a committee appointed to take the matter into
consideration. Aug. 25th, the matter was taken up, when "the charge
given to the Master at his installation was read," whereupon Bro.
Blockburger (who had refused to take the East), withdrew his resig-
nation and request for a demit, and assumed his place. Sept. 15th,
officers as follows were elected: Alfred Durant, W. M.; Ira Millard, S.
W.; M. J. Blockburger, J. W.; John S. Hillis, Treas.; J. H. Ralston, Sec.;
P. W. Millard, S. D.; Jeremiah Hart, J. D.; C. J. Richardson, Tyler.
CLINTON LODGE NO. 39.
Ten brethren were raised by this Lodge during the year 1842, viz. :
E. N. Norton and A. Crane, Feb. 7th; William Wilcox,Feb. 8th; M. W.
190 HISTORY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS.
Hall, Feb. 14th : II. S. Mills, April oth : Charles Peters, May 9th ; Wil-
liam Morton, June 13th; - - Mills, July 2oth; Henderson P.
Bojakin, Aug. 9th; Elias S. Dennis, Oct. 28th.
Jan. llth, the dues of Bro. Thos. Moon were remitted, and it was
" Ordered That he pp.y no further dues, owing to his indigent circum-
stances, age, and respectability as a worthy ancient Mason." Feb. 14th,
the Lodge resolved to celebrate St. John's day, (June 24th,) and invite
all the surrounding Lodges, and the Secretary was directed to secure the
services of Br». X. M. McCurdy. of Vandalia, to deliver an oration. May
9th, on motion of Bro. Case, the following resolution was adopted :
"Resolved, By thi< Lorl^, ','ifit we deem the drinking of ardent spirits un-
masonic, ami should not be tolerated among Masons.
June 24th. St. John's Day was duly celebrated, seventeen members of
the Lodge being present. The visitors were numerous, and among them
were C. B. Biockburger, W. M. No. 33; "Doctor Wellington," Henry P.
Gay. J. S. Hillis, and A. Durant, of the same Lodge; D. B. Hodge, W.
M.. V. M. McCurdy, and Julian Hulaniski, of Temperance Lodge ; Wil-
'nort, of Franklin Lodge; Jacob Harden, of St. Joseph Lodge,
•William Woodburn, Cumberland Lodge No. 61, Kentucky; Jas.
M. Rogers, of Coleman Lodge No. 40, Missouri; James Clark and Daniel
Han i a _'U>n," transient brethren." July llth, a petition, signed by "Breth.
. Hall, Barnes, Moon, Hicks, Johnson, Baker, and Barnes," asking
•;endation for new Lodge at Salem, Marion county, was granted.
Nov. 19th, 1841, a petition, signed by John Hay, P. W. Handle, T.
.ill, L. D. Turner, William Adams, Joseph Bennett, John C. Theill,
in Cox, J. L. Corse, F. V. Schrader, and P. Smith, praying for :i
nation to form and open a Lodge at Belleville, St. Clair county,
.is presented to Naphtali Lodge, St. Louis, Missouri, for recommenda-
tion, which was granted, and on the 12th of February, 1842, the
dispensation was granted. Joseph Bennett was appointed W. M.; J. C.
Theill, S. W.; and Herman Cox, J. W. Feb. 12th, the Lodge held its
urst meeting. A committee was appointed to prepare by-laws, and the
petition of J. L. D. Morrison, an "Entered Apprentice of Western Star
Lodge," received and referred.
In Bro. John Hay, (the first name on the petition), we recognize one
i hat was made in Western Star Lodge among the very first, and in the
year 1806.
The Lodge, during 1842, conferred the Master's degree upon J. L. D.
Morrison and C. G. Y. Taylor, March 9th: Seth Catlin, Oliver Green,
and W. E. Chittenden, March 10th : C. F. Flamuff and Alexander
Eaney, March llth; Nathan Todd, May 3d ; Ralph Crabb, May 17th;
HISTORY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS. 191
David "Wilver and George W. Hook, May 25th; Jonathan Moore and
Richard Handle, July 12th; Jarvis M.Jacks, Sept. 6th ; Julius Raith,
Dec. 6th.
Oct. 16th, Bro. John Hay was buried with the solemnities appropriate
to the occasion.
Oct. 25th, the Lodge was duly constituted as No. 60, by A. T. Douglas,
Grand Visitor Grand Lodge of Missouri, and the officers, as here given,
were installed: Joseph Bennett, W. M.; J. C. Theill, S. W.; P. "W.
Randle, J. W.; Alexander Beany, Treas.; C. G. Y. Taylor, Sec.; Oliver
Green, S. D.; L. D. Turner, J. D.; J. Rankin, Tyler.
Dec. 13th, officers elected, viz.: J. C. Theill, W. M.; P. W. Randle, S.
W.; C. G. Y. Taylor, J. W.: Alexander Reany, Sec.; J. Bennett, Treas.;
Oliver Green, S. D.; G. W. Hook, J. D.; J. Rankin, Tyler ; W. G. Goforth,
Marshal.
On the seventh of July, 1842, a petition was prepared by a number of
brethren residing in the town of Salem, county of Marion, praying for a
dispensation to open and hold a Lodge at that place. July llth, the
petition was duly recommended, and on the fourteenth of July a dis-
pensation was granted by Joab Bernard, Deputy Grand Master Grand
Lodge of Missouri, attested by Richard B. Dallam, Grand Secretary.
The petition was signed by Breth. John A. Goudy, W. H. H. Barnes, A.
H. Barnes, Mathew W. Hall, B. W. Baker, Thomas Moon, S. G. Hicks,
and Noah Johnson.
This Lodge conferred the Master's degree upon Breth. Justice R. Ry-
man and A. K. King, Sep. 26th. Oct. 27th, Bro. Douglas constituted the
Lodge as No. 59, and installed John A. Goudy, as W. M.; W. H. H.
Barnes, S. W.; Alexander H. Barnes, J. W.; Mathew W. Hall, Treas.
CHAPTER XVI.
1843.
The third grand communication of the present Grand Lodge was held
at Jacksonville, commencing Monday, Oct. 2d, 1843. Present: M. W.
Meredith Helm, G. M.; R. W. Alexander Dunlap, D. G. M.; W. Levi
Lusk, S. G. W.; W. Wm. Hodge, J. G. W. pro tern.; W. Wm. B. Warren,
G. Sec.,- "W. Maurice Doyle, G. Treas. pro tern.; W. John Bennett, G. S. D.;
W. Thos. L. Harris, G. J. D.; W. S. W. Lucas, G. Pursuivant; W. A. C.
Dickson, G. Marshal j W. Geo. Hackett, G. Tyler.
The following Lodges were represented :
Bodley No. 1, J. B. Conyers ; Equality No. 2, W. B. Warren, (proxy) ;
Harmony . No. 3, A. V. Putnam; Springfield No. 4, Maurice Doyle;
Rushville No. 9, Levi Lusk; Rising Sun No. 12, L. N. Scovill, (proxy) ;
Temperance No. 16, W. Hodge; Macomb, U. D., James Chandler; La-
Fayette, U. D., L. C. Kercheval ; Clinton, U. D., John Bennett; Hancock
U. D., Lewis Evans ; Warsaw, U. D., A^J. Chittenden : Milwaukee, U. D.,
L. C. Kercheval; Nauvoo, U. D., S. Roundy; Helm, U. D., J. S. Myers;
Nye, U. D., J. S. Myers ; Eagle, U. D., L. N. Scovill.
The Grand Lodge was opened in ample form, and with prayer by the
M. W. Grand Master.
Columbus Lodge No. 6, Friendship No. 7, Macon No. 8, Juliet No. 10,
St. Johns No. 13, Warren No. 14, and PeoriaNo. 15, were not represented
on the morning of the first day.
The M. W. Grand Master read the following message:
"BRETHREN: — We have assembled together this morning on an interesting and
important occasion. Various Lodges of our ancient and honorable Order are
congregated here by their respective delegates, representing, it is presumed,
the collective talents, virtue, and information of the Fraternity throughout this
State and part of the Territories of Wisconsin and Iowa. We have come up to
be gratified with the sight of each other's faces once more; to exchange the cor-
dial and friendly greeting: to "take sweet counsel together;" to draw still
tighter the cords which unite us as a band of brother?, and to deliberate upon
and finally adopt such measures as, in our opinion and hope, may conduce to
the prosperity of Masonry within our borders, and perchance have a collateral
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 193
influence upon the Fraternity wheresoever dispersed. Knowing somewhat of
Masonry, and acquainted as I am with many of you, I feel it to be altogether
unnecessary to remind you of those principles of our order, so essential to he
observed in the prosecution of the business of this body; essential to its well-
being and to a happy termination of its labors. Masons pre-eminently love
order and harmony; and I doubt not you will enter upon the accomplishment
of the work before you, with a prevailing disposition and a steady determina-
tion in all you say and do, to have regard to the excellent tenets of our institu-
tion: "to love as brethren; to be kindly affectionate one to another, in honor
preferring one another." Union is the very soul of our associated being ; sel-
fishness, at war and incompatible with the genius and spirit of Masonry. Am-
bition and rivalry we know not, '-except that noble emulation of who can best
work and best agree." While we deliberate a few days together, my brethren,
let us exemplify in our conduct these interesting traits of Masonry.
"Your officers, however deficient they may be in Masonic knowledge, and al-
though aware of their constant liability to err, being those of your own choice,
will look to you for that generous confidence which Masons only know how to
bestow ; and will expect your aid and support so long as they shall evince recti-
tude of intention, and a sincere desire to discharge their respective duties ac-
cording to their best abilities. Happily, experience has taught us not to expect
this in vain.
"Since your last annual meeting, I have granted dispensations for the forma-
tion of new Lodges at Warsaw, Carthage, Macomb, Chicago, Nauvoo and Pekin,
in this State; at Keokuk, Iowa; and Milwaukee, Wisconsin Territory. The pa-
pers connected with these proceedings will be laid before you by the G. Sec-
retary, for your inspection; and it wilfbe for you to deteimin e whether the
authority granted by either of these dispensations shall now cease, or be con-
firmed by a permanent grant in the nature of a charter.
"The committee appointed by you to visit Xauvoo for the purpose of inquir-
ing into certain irregularities alleged to have been committed by the Lodge-
there, after discharging the duty assigned them, made a report to me, conclud-
ing with a recommendation that their dispensation be continued. Accordingly,
in compliance with what appeared to me, under these circumstances, to be the
wish of the Grand Lodge, as implied in the resolution appointing said com-
mittee, I restored to them their dispensation. The authority therein granted
now ceases, and the whole matter is again before the Grand Lodge, upon their
application for acharter. This subject has heretofore excited no little discussion
both in and out of this body, and the action of the Grand Lodge in reference to
it has been made the object of much animadversion, criticism, and remark.
Several communications from eminent and honored names in Masonry, have
been addressed to me, calling in question the correctness of the course pursued
by you in relation to this subject, and strongly protesting against the prudence
and propriety of allowing a Masonic Lodge to exist in Nauvoo. I call your at-
tention to these facts, solely for the purpose of suggesting that justice to our
Xauvoo brethren, courtesy and respect for those who object to our past conduct
towards them, and a proper regard for the good opinion and welfare of the Fra-
ternity at large, alike require that every step of your proceedings in this matter
should be marked by the utmost care, caution, and deliberation. Whatever
may be your decision, be entirely satisfied that it is right and proper; over-
stepping no ancient landmark, and altogether congenial with the spirit, and con-
—13
191 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
formable to the universally acknowledged principles of our Order. Should you
finally determine to grant a charter to Nauvoo Lodge, and thus perpetuate its
existence, I would suggest the propriety, nay, the absolute necessity, of dividing
it into at least four, if not more, distinct Lodges. The number of its members
is entirely too large 'for convenience in working, and is otherwise objection-
able; a fact of which they are themselves aware. A short time ago they applied to
me to divide them into several distinct Lodges; but as this application was
made at a period very near to our annual meeting, I thought it proper to wait
and refer the whole matter, as I now do, to the Grand Lodge.
" I am gratified at being able to inform you that the Lodge at Vandalia, avail-
ing itself of the invitation extended to it and others by resolution of the last
session, and of the permission granted to it through the courtesy of the Grand
Lodge of Missouri, has accepted a charter from this Grand Lodge, and is now
working under our authority. It is hoped that the time is not distant, when the
other -Lodges in this State, similarly situated, will follow her example, and that
thereby the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge will become, as of right it ought
to be, co-extensive with the boundaries of the State.
" I would direct your attention in an especial manner to the doings of the late
Baltimore National Convention, a copy of whose proceedings are in the posses-
sion of the Grand Secretary. It is regretted that owing to the comparatively
recent organization of this Grand Lodge, and our consequent inability to spare
sufficient funds for that purpose, we were unrepresented in that convention.
We should not hesitate, however, to avail ourselves, as far as possible, of the
benefits to accrue from their valuable labors; particularly such as were directed
to the establishing a uniform mode of work. In no State, perhaps, is some
authoritative standard and exposition of the lectures and work more needed
than this. Coming as we do from all parts of the United States and of Europe,
each bringing with him his peculiarity of mode, and a strong predilection in favor
of that mode to which he has been accustomed, we necessarily differ among
ourselves in many things unessential, but in some things materially. Even
when these differences are not essential, and refer only to the most trifling
minutise, the beauty, regularity and harmony of the work are marred, audit.*
facility impeded by the want of uniformity, an inconvenience which will con-
tinue to be seen and felt until the defect, slight though it be, shall be remedied.
I would, therefore, respectfully recommend that you appoint at your present
session a Grand Lecturer, whose duty it shall be, as soon after this convocation
as may be, to proceed, at the expense of this Grand Lodge, to St. Louis, to con-
fer with the delegates from Missouri to the Baltimore Convention, to become
thoroughly instructed by them in the lectures and work as adopted by said con-
vention, and to report the same to this Grand Lodge at its next annual convo-
cation, for their approval or rejection. In the meantime, presuming that the
said work is correct, and acting upon the necessity of adopting some standard,
the Grand Lodge might require the Grand Lecturer, after having been instructed
as already stated, to visit and instruct such of the Lodges, subordinate to us, as
may prefer a formal request to him for that purpose, and will engage to defray
his expenses while on his mission to them.
" The resolution adopted by the Baltimore Convention, recommending the
formation of triennial National Conventions, together with the rules suggested
for the organization of the same, are recommended to your careful considera-
tion.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 195
"Another resolution, adopted first by the Convention of Washington, and
.reiterated by that lately held at Baltimore, in relation to requiring from breth-
ren who are strangers, certificates of good standing, emanating from the Grand
Lodge from the jurisdiction of which they respectively hail, is also worthy of
your serious attention.
" Fearing that you will think I have already trespassed upon your time, I shall
leave to the Committee on Foreign Correspondence the task of bringing before
you such matter from abroad as may be deemed worthy of your notice, and close
these remarks by expressing a confident hope that your deliberations during
this convocation will be characterized, in a peculiar degree, by harmony and
love, and that the measures you may see proper to adopt will be wise in their
conception and design, strong and enduring in their results, and beautiful as a
pillar of the Corinthian order, enriched by the graces of the Ionic.
The standing committees were then announced, viz. :
On Returns and Work, Bros. Lusk, Hodge, and Conyers; on Petitions
and Grievances, Scovill, Prather, and Lusk; on Finance and Accounts,
Putnam, Doyle, and Dunlap; on Foreign Communications, Warren,
Hodge, and McNeill; to Examine Visiting Brethren, Hackett, Bennett,
and Putnam.
The message of the Grand Master was referred to the Committee on
Foreign Communications.
In the afternoon, the Committee on Returns and Work reported Lodges
Nos. 2, 4, 9, and 16 correct, and recommended the granting of charters
to Macomb Lodge as No. 17, and LaFayette as No. 18, which was accord-
ingly done, and Breth. Chandler, of No. 17, and Kercheval, of No. 18,
admitted as representatives of those Lodges. During the afternoon
session, Bro. Gorin appeared as the representative of Macon Lodge.
In the evening, the Committee on Returns and Work reported as
follows :
"The Committee on Returns and Work of Lodges beg leave farther to report
that they have examined the returns of Harmony Lodge No. 3, and Macon
Lodge No. 8, and find them correct and dues paid.
"They have examined the return of Bodley Lodge No. 1, and find the work
regular and dues paid.
• "Your committee also report, that they have examined the records, returns,
and by-laws of Carthage Lodge, U. D., and Clinton Lodge, U. D., and find them
correct, dues paid, and charter desired.
" We have also examined the abstract return and by-laws of Warsaw Lodge,
U. I)., and from that it appears the work is correct, dues paid, and charter de-
sired.
"Your committee have also examined the work and return of Milwaukee
Lodge U. D., which appeared to be correct, dues unpaid, and charter desired.
"They have also examined the abstract return of Eagle Lodge, U. D., from
which it appears that the work has been very irregular and highly censurable,
in that, in as many as six instances, petitions have been presented and acted
on in a shorter period than one lunar month; in every other respect the work
appears to have been correct, so far as we can judge from the abstract alone.
196 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"Your committee have examined the abstract returns of Rising Sun Lodge
No. 12, Nauvoo Lodge, (J. D., Nye Lodge, U. D., and Helm Lodge, U. D., but are
unable to report thereupon without further explanation or amendment of re-
turns.
"Your committee offer the following resolution :
"Sesolved, That charters be granted to Clinton Lodge, U. D., as Clinton Lodge
No. 19; Hancock Lodge, U. D., as Hancock Lodge No. 20; Warsaw Lodge, U. D.,
as Warsaw Lodge No. 21; Milwaukee Lodge, U. D., when dues are paid, as Mil-
waukee Lodge No. 22.
" L. LUSK.
J. B. CONYERS.
"On motion of Bro. Warren, Bro. John Bennett was invited to take
his seat as representative of Clinton Lodge No. 19 ; Bro. Lewis Evans as
representative of Hancock Lodge No. 20 ; and Bro. A. J. Chittenden as
representative of Warsaw Lodge No. 21."
So much of the Grand Master's address as related to Nauvoo Lodge,
was referred to the Committee on Returns and Work.
The following action was had :
" Bro. Prather moved to take up an amendment to the by-laws pro-
posed by Bro. Davis at the last annual communication, which was
agreed to. The amendment read as follows :
" Each subordinate Lodge shall have authority to fix its own fees for
conferring the three degrees and for membership; but no Lodge shall
charge a less sum than twenty dollars, nor more than thirty for the
former, and not less than two nor more than five for the latter ; pro-
vided, that no charge of membership be made against those who have
received the three degrees in the Lodge.
" Bro. Prather then proposed to amend said resolution by striking out
the word 'twenty' and inserting the word fifteen, and by striking out the
word ' thirty.'
"The W. G. Master decided that an amendment to an amendment of
the by-laws, which had laid over for one year, was out of order. To
this decision Bro. Prather excepted, and an appeal was taken to the
Grand Lodge. The decision of the W. G. Master was sustained by the
Grand Lodge — Ayes, 8; noes, 4.
" On motion of Bro. Hodge, the amendment was laid over for the
present."
The amendment to the by-laws, providing for the substitution of the
word "Springfield" in place of " Jacksonville," as the place of meet-
ing, was laid over to the next day.
The amendment of Bro. S. H. Davis to the by-laws, offered the year
previous, providing that whenever the average attendance at Lodge
meetings shall be less than ten, such Lodge should surrender its charter,
and that when the membership of a Lodge exceeded fifty, it should be
divided, was taken up and lost — "Ayes, 1 ; nays, 15."
HISTORY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS. 197
The Grand Marshal was directed to make arrangements for a pro-
cession on the next day, at 11 o'clock.
Tuesday morning, the Grand Lodge was called to labor at 8-V o'clock.
The reports of the Grand Secretary and Treasurer were referred to the
Committee on Finance.
The Grand Lodge then went into an election, resulting in the election
of M. W. Alexander Dunlap, of Jacksonville, G. M. ; R. W. Levi Lusk,
of Rushville, D. G. M.; W. William Hodge, of Vandalia, S. G. W.;
Henry Prather, of Decatur, J. G. W. ; Wm. B. Warren, of Jacksonville,
G. Sec. ; Adams Dunlap, of Rushville, D. G. Sec. ; P. Coffman, of Jack-
sonville, G. Treas.j H. S. Cooley, of Quincy, G. 0.; G. A. Patterson, of
Decatur, G. C.; George Hackett, of Jacksonvilla, G. Tyler.
Appointment as follows were made : J. B. Conyers, of Quincy,
G. S. D. ; John Bennett, of Petersburg, G. J. D. ; P. Underwood, of Vir-
ginia, G. Marshal ; L. C. Kercheval, of Chicago, G. Steward ,• P. J.
Zwisler, of Springfield, G. S. B.
The Grand Lodge then proceeded to the Methodist Church, where an
oration was delivered by Bro. Cooley, and upon returning, the Grand
Lodge was called off until 2 o'clock P. M., at which time it was again
called to labor, when the officers were duly installed.
The amendment to the by-laws, changing the place of meeting, was
taken up and lost.
On motion of Bro. Bennett, the Grand Secretary was directed to dis-
continue the practice of publishing in the proceedings the personal
description of rejected petitioners.
The Grand Lodge having resolved to elect a Grand Lecturer, a ballot
for that purpose was had, and Levi Lusk was elected.
On motion of P. G. Master Helm, the Grand Lecturer was directed to
proceed to St. Louis, and there meet the delegates to the Baltimore Con-
vention, and perfect himself in the work, which was to be imparted to
the Lodges upon their request and at their expense. The Grand Lodge
was then called from labor.
At seven o'clock, the Grand Lodge again convened, when the Com-
mittee on Returns and Work reported that the returns of Friendship
Lodge No. 8 were correct, also Cass Lodge U. D., to which latter a char-
ter was granted as Xo. 23.
The Committee on Finance and Accounts made their report, as follows :
"The committee on Finance and Accounts have examined the accounts of
the Grand Marshal, Grand Tyler, and the report of the Grand Secretary and
Grand Treasurer, and find them correct.
TREASURER'S REPORT.
"The Grand Treasurer of the Grand Lodge of Illinois begs leave to report,
that he has in his hands twenty-eight dollars and twenty-five cents, ill good
198 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS
money; that he received from the Grand Secretary at the last Annual Commu-
nication, in State Bank paper..-. $240 00
That he paid to Grand Charity $5000
For printing 34 00
84 00
Balance in his hands, State paper $156 00
And good money 28 25
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
"P. COFFMAN.
"The following is a statement of the finances :
RECEIPTS.
In hands of Treasurer, State Bank paper, $156, equal to _ $78 00
In hands of Treasurer, par funds ., • 28 CO
In hands Grand Secretary 318 00
$424 65
EXPENDITURES.
By G. Marshal, as per bill with vouchers $20 00
By G. Tyler 10 25
Due estate of General Adams 121 84
$152 50
Balance in Treasury after paying the Adam's debt $271 97
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
"A. V. PUTNAM,
A. DUNLAP."
GRAND SECRETARY :
1843.] In account with Grand Lodge, III.:
To cash on hand, $40 St. Louis scrip, equal to $32 25
" on hand 14 62
" State paper of Treas., $50, equal to 20 00
" rec'd since last communication, of Nauvoo 92 00
" Warsaw, for dispensation and dues 22 75
" Hancock, for dispensation and dues 25 00
" Helm, for dispensation and dues 18 00
" Macomb, for dispensation and dues 25 75
" Nye, for dispensation and dues 25 00
" Pekin, for dispensation and dues 13 00
'" Eagle, for dispensation and dues 19 00
" Milwaukee, for dispensation and dues 13 00
" Lafayette, for dispensation and dues 29 50
' Rushville, for dispensation and dues 27 75
" Springfield, for dues 24 75
" Clinton, for dues 10 CO
" Equality, for dues 15 00
" Vandalia, for dues 13 50
" Peoria, ($14 Shawneetown, S6 State Bank,) 10 00
$454 12
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 199
CONTRA :
By expenses, self, Bro. Nye and Rodgers, as per bill rendered $50 12]4
Paid for printing 28 31
Paid for Magazine 2 00
Paid for postage 1 88
Paid for Stationery 1 15
Services as Grand Secretary 50 00
133 56
$308 56
A vote of thanks (on motion of Bro. Hodge), was tendered M. W. Bro.
Helm, for the "able, dignified, and courteous manner" in which he
presided over the deliberations of the Grand Lodge.
The following petition from Friendship Lodge was rejected :
" To the M. W. Grand Master, Wardens, and Brethren of the M. W. Grand Lodge
of Illinois :
" Your petitioners, the officers and members of Friendship Lodge No. 7, re-
spectfully represent, that in their returns to the Grand Lodge, they have report-
ed a brother expelled from the Lodge, and they are desirous of publishing his
name and description to the world themselves, and they ask leave of the R.
W. Grand Lodge to do so."
The Committee on Returns and Work made an additional report, as
follows, which was adopted :
" The Committee on Returns and Work of Lodges beg leave to report : That
they have examined the abstract returns from Rising Sun Lodge No. 12, from
which it appears that the work has been irregular, and that the return is alto-
gether informal, and dues unpaid.
"They have also examined the abstract returns of Nauvoo Lodge, U. D., and
they find the work in some measure correct, but in many instances there ap-
pear irregularities, and matters to our committee inexplicable. The Lodge
has failed to bring their record before the committee, which to some of your
committee, at least, is a matter of surprise, knowing, as they do, the severe les-
son the said Lodge was taught at the last Grand Communication. The greatest
irregularitiy of which your committee would complain is, that there appears to
be a disposition to accumulate and gather members without regard to character,
and to push them on through the second and third degrees, before they can be
possibly skilled in the first and second. Your committee are aware that there
is no by-law of this Grand Lodge to prevent this; nor are they sure that any
length of probation would in all cases insure skill; but they feel certain that
the ancient landmarks of the order require that the Lodge should know that
the candidate is well skilled in one degree, before he is advanced to another.
Your committee will not doubt but there are many worthy and skillful breth-
ren in Nauvoo Lodge ; brethren who would under other circumstances be an
ornament to the institution of Masonry ; but they are reassured that their influ-
ence is entirely lost and obscured by the conduct of others less worthy; nay, of
those who entirely disregard the ties that should bind us together as scared a
band of friends and brothers.
200 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"Your committee have also had under consideration the abstract return of
Helm Lodge, U. D., and find their work irregular in receiving and acting on four
petitions in one day; and imprudent in passing and raising to the third de-
gree, often times within two days after initiation, as appears from the abstract
alone; for no records have been presented, and dues in part unpaid.
"The returns from Nye Lodge, U. D.,are objectionable in the. same points that
those of Helm Lodge are, viz.: in receiving petitions on one day, and initiating
on the next, in as many as six instances. And also in pushing the candidate
through the second and third degrees, before he can possibly be skilled in the
preceding degrees. The dues appear to be paid.
"Your committee have been at a great loss to know what course to recom-
mend in relation to the above named Lodge; and also to Eagle Lodge, U. D.,
heretofore reported, but on which there was no action.
"That their work is highly censurable, there is no doubt in the mindset' your
committee; but whether that censure should extend so far as to arrest their
charter, or suspend their dispensation, is a matter of which your committee
would be most gladly relieved; were this all, your committee would be inclined
to the side of mercy; but from facts that have been communicated to your com-
mittee through various channels, and particularly through Masons of eminence,
who have visited the Lodge at Nauvoo, your committee have good reason to be-
lieve that they put on their best dress when they appear before this Grand
Lodge.
"Your committee will offer the following resolutions:
"Resolved, That the charter of Rising Sun Lodge No. 12, be suspended, and
that the Master and Wardens be cited to appear at the next grand annual com-
munication of this Grand Lodge, to show cause, if any they have, why their
charter should not be revoked.
"Resolved, That in the opinion of this Grand Lodge, it is inexpedient and pre-
judicial to the interests of Freemasonry, longer to sustain H Lodge in Nauvoo ;
and for the disrespect and contempt that Nauvoo Lodge and Helm Lodge have
shown in refusing to present the records of their work to this Grand Lodge,
"Resolved, That their dispensations be and they are hereby revoked and char-
ters refused.
"Resolved, That for irregular work and disregard of the resolutions and in-
structions of this Grand Lodge, the dispensations of Eagle Lodge and Nye
Lodge are hereby revoked and charters refused.
"Your committee further report, that no returns have been received from the
following named Lodges, viz.: Juliet No. 10, Warren No. 14, Peoria No. 15, Kas-
kaskia, U. D., and Ottawa, U. D.
"Your committee offer the following resolution:
"Resolved, That the Grand Secretary be directed to correspond with the above
named Lodges, and ascertain the excuses of said Lodges for not making their
annual returns, and report the same to the next annual communication of this
Grand Lodge.
" L. LUSK,
J. B. CONYERS,
W. HODGE."
Breth. Helm and Chittenden were granted leave of absence.
The Grand Lodge was then called oft' until Wednesday morning.
Wednesday the Grand Lodge was called to labor.
The Grand Secretary made the following report :
"The undersigned, having been appointed a special delegate by this Grand
Lodge to visit the Grand Lodge of Missouri, at her last annual communication,
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 201
and confer with her on the subject of the subordinate Lodges in this State
working under her jurisdiction, performed that duty, and now submits to this
R. W. Grand Lodge the action of the R. W. Grand Lodge of Missouri on that
subject.
" Your delegate can not take leave of this subject without expressing the pleas-
ure he received from the kind attention which was paid to this R. W. Grand
Lodge through their delegate — evincing a disposition on the part of that R. W.
Grand Lodge, cordially to reciprocate those fraternal relations which do, and of
right should, characterize the Masonic family.
" W. B. WARREN."
Bro. Warren, from the Committee on Foreign Communications, reported
as follows :
"The Chairman of the Committee on Foreign Communications begs leave to
report that he had indulged a hope until a late hour, that the leport would have
been written out by another member of the committee, and regrets exceedingly
that he can not spare the time from his occupation, as Grand Secretary, to take
a more extended view of the very interesting correspondence which has come
under his notice. Communications and printed journals have been received
from the following Grand Lodges, viz.: Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island,
New York, New Jersey, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee,
Connecticut, Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana, Alabama, Missouri, Mississippi, Arkansas,
Florida, and the Republic of Texas.
" In these communications very many things of interest and instruction to
the Craft are noticed; many of which should, if time permitted, be brought be-
fore this Grand Lodge for its action.
" Your committee have read them with pride and pleasure, evidencing as they
do, that the star of Masonry, 'that star which guided the wise men of the
East,' is tending upward and onward, bright and brighter, not only over this
Union, but throughout the habitable globe ; and he who is in possesion of that
universal language, is hailed and embraced as a brother, whether wandering
through the green forests of America, over the burning sands of Palestine, or
wending his way along the gloomy banks of the Ganges. The increased intel-
ligence of the Craft, together with the very increased attention to the various
duties of the Order, give earnest that a spirit of peace and brotherly love is
abroad in the land.
"At a time when the embarrassments of the country stand unparalleled in the
history of our republic, it might have been expected that an institution whose
basis is charity and the practice of the social and moral relations of man, would
have languished. Its failure to do so, is another and an unerring testimony that
an All-Seeing Eye is in a peculiar manner overlooking the interest of the Ma-
sonic Fraternity.
"Your committee beg leave to call the attention of the. Grand Lodge to the
very able address of Grand Master Helm, as embracing most of the subjects
upon which your committee would recommend the action of the Grand Lodge.
" W. B. WARREN."
The subject of Grand Lodge certificates, alluded to in the address of
the M. "W. G. Master, was referred to Breth. Conyers, Prather, and
Bennett.
202 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
Resolutions of thanks to the Grand Orator and the Methodist Church
were passed.
At the afternoon session, the committee to •whom was referred the
matter of certificates, reported as follows :
"The committee to whom was referred that part of our M. \V. Past Grand
Master Helm's message, the subject of Grand Lodge certificates, have had the
same duly under consideration, and beg leave to offer the following resolutions :
"1st. Resolved, That this R. W. Grand Lodge recommend to the subordinate
Lodges working under her jurisdiction, that they acknowledge no certificates
presented by strange brethren, but such as have emanated from the respective
Grand Lodge from which they hail; and further, that they admit no strange
brethren within their charities or visitors but such as present certificates as
above.
"2d. Resolved, That this R. W. Grand Lodge, request other grand and subordi-
nate Lodges throughout the Globe, to pay no attention to certificates purporting
to come from subordinate Lodges working under this Grand Lodge, nor permit
any Mason hailing from under their jurisdiction, to visit their Lodges or partake
«f their charities, unless they present a certificate from this Grand Lodge, signed
by the M. W. Grand Master "and attested by the Grand Secretary, and the seal
of the Grand Lodge.
"3d. Resolved, That the Grand Secretary be directed to furnish subordinate
Lodges with a sufficient number of blank certificates as soon as practicable, that
the subordinate Lodges may be prepared to furnish their members without de-
lay.
"4th. Resolved, That the Secretaries of the subordinate Lodges working under
the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge, be required to register the names of those
to whom certificates may be issued, and report the same in their annual returns
to this Grand Lodge.
"J. B. CONYERS."
The first resolution was laid over one year, and the remainder adopted.
The following was passed :
" Bro. Putnam offered the following resolution, which, on motion, was adopted :
"Resolved, That the Grand Secretary be required to furnish one hundred and
fifty certificates, printed on parchment, and furnish to each subordinate Lodge
such a number as they may order; and such subordinate Lodges be required
to pay the Grand Secretary fifty cents each for said certificates."
Bro. Grand Secretary was instructed to purchase a library of ancient
authority, for the use of this R. W. Grand Lodge; also, to have the pro-
ceedings of this Grand Communication, together with the constitution
and by-laws, printed and distributed as usual.
The Grand Lodge then closed.
Nauvoo, Helm, and Nye Lodges were located at Nauvoo, and were
composed mainly of Mormons. Eagle Lodge, at Keokuk, was of the
same character. These Lodges were the result of a division of Nauvoo
Lodge, and were never chartered. /?*f3
The membership of the Lodges this year was as follows : Bodley No.
1,25; Equality No. 2, 22; Harmony No. 3, 17; Springfield No. 4, 41;
Columbus No. 6,13; Friendship No. 7, 22 ; Macon No. 8, 22 ; Rushville
No. 9, 26 ; Juliet No. 10, 14 : Rising Sun No. 12, 45 ; St. John's No. 13,
13 ; "Warren No. 14, 32 : Peoria No. 15, not returned ; Temperance No.
16, 24 ; Macomb No. 17, 18: LaFayette No. 18, 21 ; Clinton No. 19, 14;
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 203
Hancock No. 20, 16 ; Warsaw No. 21, 14 ; Milwaukee No. 22, 17 ; Cass,
No. 23, 13 ; Pekin, U. D., 10. Total reported, 439.
BODLEY LODGE NO. 1.
The raisings during 1843 were as follows : Robert S. Williams, Feb.
6: J. C. Headley, Feb. 20; Van Fleet, Sept. 15; John B. Young,
Oct. 22 ; J. H. Ralston, Oct. 24 ; Levi Palmer, Nov. 15.
March 2, charges preferred against two brethren were withdrawn, the
brethren having made all proper confessions, and having expressed
their sorrow and regret. Intemperance was the cause assigned. Mayl,
among the visitors we find the name of Stephen A. Douglas. June 6, an
invitation from St. John's Lodge, at Hannibal, to join with them in
celebrating St. John's Day, was accepted, twenty-five brethren having
agreed to attend. June 20, the committee appointed to make arrange-
ments reported that they had secured the steamboat " Sarah Ann " for
the trip. July 11, the Lodge interred the remains of Thomas C. Grant,
a "stranger brother," who died July 10, and whose residence was " St.
Mary's Landing, Arkansas," and who was " aged about 42." Sept. 29,
the following action was had :
"Resolved, That we respectfully ask the attention of the members of the Grand
Lodge and delegates to carefully examine into and consider well on the propriety
of granting a charter to Nauvoo Lodge, U. D., and that it is our decided conviction
that said dispensation should never have been granted, and from what we have
seen and heard from sources to be relied on, that it would be unwise to grant a
charter or continue a dispensation longer among that people."
On motion of E. M. Davis,
"Resolved, further, That the delegates from this Lodge to the Grand Lodge be
instructed to vote against the granting of charter to any Lodge in Nauvoo, and
use all their endeavors to procure a withdrawal of the dispensations now
granted."
Passed unanimously.
Oct. 30, Bro. John Lee, who died Oct. 28, was buried with Masonic
honors. No administrator of the property of Bro. Lee having been
designated, Bro. Asbury was requested by the Lodge to act as such, and
it was resolved that "immediate care" should be taken of Bro. Lee's
orphan children. Deo. 26, officers were elected as follows: Josiah B.
Conyers, W. M.; J. Hedges, S. W. ; J. C. Headley, J. W. ; Damon
Hauser, Treasurer; C. Steinagle, Secretary; H. S. Cooley and Levi
Palmer, Deacons; and Abraham Van Fleet, Tyler. The officers were
then installed.
EQUALITY LODGE NO. 102.
This Lodge reported the following raisings during the year 1843:
Benjamin Irish, April 1st; William Ellage, July 1st.
204 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
June 24th, the following officers were elected : J. E. Watkins, W. M.:
A. W. Pool, S. W.; John R. Smoot, J. W.: R. T. Hopper, Sec.; J. W. Ham-
ilton, Treas.; John M. Leech, S. D.; Benj. Irish, J. D.; John Howard,
Tyler.
Dec. 27th, the following were elected : John M. Leech, W. M.: A. W.
Pool, S. W.: J. W. Hamilton, J. W.: R. T. Hopper, Sec.: Wm. Siddall,
Treas.; Joa. E. Watkins and John M. Burnett, Deacons; William Ellage,
Tyler. At this meeting the charter of the Lodge as No. 2, issued by the
Grand Lodge of Illinois, was received, whereupon Equality Lodge No.
102 "adjourned sine die," and "Equality Lodge No. 2 was opened on the
first, second and third degrees of Masonry."
HARMONY LODGE NO. 3.
The return of this Lodge to the Grand Lodge, which is all the infor-
mation concerning the Lodge during this year we are in possession of,
is as follows :
" RETURN OF HARMONY LODGE No 3, JACKSONVILLE.
" A. V. Putnam, W. M.; W. W. Happy, S. W.; J. A. McDougal, J. W.; W.
B. Warren, Sec.; Matt. Stacy, Treas.; J. T. Sigler, S. D. ; J. M. Lucas, J.
D.: A. C. Dickson, Tyler.
" MASTER MASONS. — (Including above) S. W. Lucas, John T. Jones,
Philip Coffman,A. Dunlap, John Gregory, George Hackett, Dennis Rock-
well, James T. Holmes, Clark Roberts.
SPRINGFIELD LODGE NO. 4.
The Master's degree was conferred upon the following brethren during
1843: N. W. Matheny and William Wilkey, Jan. 19th; N. B. Heath,
Feb. 12th; Eli Cook, Sep. 30th.
Feb. 13th, the Lodge resolved to celebrate the 22d February, and ap-
pointed a committee of arrangements to carry the resolution into effect.
Invitations were ordered to issue to the Lodges at Jacksonville, Decatur,
Petersburg, and Virginia. Breth. Weber, Zwisler, and Harvey were ap-
pointed a committee to invite P. G. M. Jonas to deliver an oration on
the occasion. Feb. 17th, the committee reported that Bro. Jonas had
signified his acceptance of the invitation to be present and deliver an
oration on the 22d instant. The Washingtonian Temperance Society
were invited to assist in the celebration. Feb. 22d, the day was duly
celebrated, an oration being delivered and dinner partaken of, at which
the Governor, Lieut. Governor, Judges of the Supreme Court, and the
Speaker of the House of Representatives were present by invitation. On
returning to the hall, a vote of thanks was passed, to Bro. Jonas for his
oration, and to the "Military Company of Cadets for their handsome
escoit," and the Secretary ordered to send copies of the same to Bro.
Jonas and "Captain Johnson."
HISTORY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS. 205
Feb. 27th, five hundred copies of Bro. Jonas' address were ordered
printed, and on motion of Bro. S. II. Treat, ordered distributed as follows :
"Five copies to each of the Lodges in the State: five copies to each of
the Lodges in St. Louis : one copy to each of the Grand Lodg'es in the
United States, and twelve copies to Bro. Jonas." On motion of Bro.
Shepherd, each member of the Lodge was presented with five copies,
and on motion of Bro. Treat, 25 copies were ordered to be filed "for future
use and reference."
April 10th, the Lodge decided that in the future no brother should be
advanced until he had made suitable proficiency in the preceding de-
gree, which was to be tested by au examination in open Lodge, or by a
committee appointed for the purpose.
June Cth, the Lodge accepted an invitation extended by Clinton
Lodge, at Petersburg, to celebrate St. John's Day. June 26th, an invita-
tion from "the Committee of Arrangements, at Rochester, to celebrate
with them the anniversary of American Independence, was respectfully
declined." A resolution was introduced amending the by-laws, inso-
much as they required elections of officers semi-annually, by providing
for such elections annually, on the 27th December. Officers for the six
months next ensuing were then elected, with the following result:
Francis A. McNeil], W. M.: James Zwisler, S. W.; George R. Weber, J.
"VV. ; Maurice Doyle, Treasurer; N. W. Matheny, Secretary; James
Maxcy, Tyler. The following appointments were made : N. A. Gar-
land and C. W. Chatterton, Deacons: James Shepherd, Master of
Ceremonies. The Finance Committee reported the Lodge indebted to
the Treasurer seventy-eight dollars and twenty-six cents. Sept. 4th, the
Lodge resolved to confer the degrees of Masonry upon ministers free of
charge, provided they devoted their whole time to their profession.
Dec. 27th, on motion of Bro. Helm, the following was adopted :
"1st. Resolved, JThat hereafter the Lodge shall be opened punctually at the
appointed hour : Provided, that sufficient number' of members be present.
" 2d. Resolved, That immediately after the opening of the Lodge at each meet-
ing, the Secretary shall call over a "list of the members, arranged in alphabetical
order, and mark the absentees. That the list of said absentees shall again be
called over just before the closing of the Lodge. That each absentee at the
opening of the Lodge, if then present, shall rise as his name is called and offer
his excuse for his previous absence, the sufficiency or insufficiency of which
shall be determined by the presiding officer, subject to an appeal to the Lodge,
which appeal shall be decided immediately and without debate. That each
absentee who shall not answer to his name on the second calling of the roll, or
whose excuse shall not be deemed sufficient, shall be fined, if either of the three
first officers, the Secretary or the Tyler, one dollar; if any other officer, fifty
cents; if a private member, twenty-five cents, which shall be immediately
charged by the Secretary to the aforesaid absentee, in his current account with
the Lodge.
"3d. Resolved, That if at any subsequent meeting of the Lodge, an absentee
shall present an excuse for absence from a previous meeting or meetings, which
shall be deemed sufficient by the presiding officer, or by the Lodge, when ap-
pealed to, the Secretary shalTthereupon immediately credit the said absentee to
a corresponding amount by fine or fines remitted, 'in his account current with
the Lodge.
206 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"4th. Resolved, That no excuse, except unavoidable absence from the town,
sickness of self or family, indispensable engagements in our usual avocations,
attendance at a religious meeting, or some peculiar emergency, to be judged of by
the presiding officer, or by the Lodge as aforesaid, shall be deemed sufficient to
justify the remission of a fine.
"5th. Resolved, That any member who shall leave the Lodge room while the
Lodge is open without permission first obtained of the presiding officer, shall be
fined at the discretion of the said presiding officer, and it is hereby made the
imperative duty of the said officer thereby, and invariably to enforce their rules,
subject to decision of the Lodge.
" Oth. Resolved, That in addition to tyling the Lodge faithfully, it is the duty
of the Tyler to keep the lodge-room and furniture clean, neat, and in good
order, to go on messages, serve summons, light the candles, make fires and pro-
vide water, fre»h and otherwise suitable to drink, punctually by the appointed
hour of meetings. That in default of the performance of either or all the duties,
partially or wholly, he shall be fined by the W. Master, to an amount which shall
be discretionary with the said Master, subject to an appeal by the Tyler from
his decision to that of the Lodge.
The amendment offered by Bro. Shepherd, June 26th, changing the
duration of time for which officers were elected, must have been adopted,
although no record appears that it was, for on the 27th of December
officers were elected for. "twelve months." The officers elected were :
James Zwisler, W. M.; George R. Weber, S. W.,- N. A. Garland, J. \V.:
Maurice Doyle, Treasurer ; Edward Jones, Secretary. The Committee
on Finance reported that the Lodge "stood indebted to him (Bro. Doyle),
in the sum of one hundred and twenty-eight dollars and fourteen cents."
A letter being received from Bro. Lusk, the Grand Lecturer, intimating
that he would visit the Lodge on January 12th and 13th, the installation
was postponed until his arrival.
COLUMBUS LODGE NO. 6.
In the absence of any other information regarding this Lodge, we
present its return to the Grand Lodge :
" RETURN OF COLUMBUS LODGE No. 6, COLUMBUS.
" A. Jonas, W. M. ; Samuel Smith, S. W. ,- George W. Thompson, J. W. ;
A. Touzalin, Treas. ; W. D. McCann, Sec.; L. Griffing, S. D. ; D. P.
McNeill, J. D.j William Bayne and C. N. Williams, Stewards,- A. J.
Short, Tyler.
"Master Masons. — A. Jonas, W. D. McCann, Daniel Harrison, L.
Griffing, George W. Thompson, M. L. Hudnall, W. II. Chapman, Thomas
Durant, M. L. Williams.
"Fellow Craft.— James Baggs.
"Entered, Apprentices. — George 0. Pond, James B. Johnson."
FRIENDSHIP LODGE NO. 7.
The brethren who attained to the Master's degree in this Lodge during
1843, are as follows : Charles T. Chase, Feb. 10 ; G. W. Chase, March 9 ;
J. Alfred Helfenstein, Dec. 14.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS. 207
Feb. 7, "at his especial request,'1 the Lodge buried with the usual
solemnities the remains of their departed brother, Smith Gilbreth.
Feb. 9, "the two Chases" were initiated. April 13, charges having
been preferred against a brother, " he was permitted to tell his story in
his own way ; this story having been heard at full length, and he having
explained the matter to the entire satisfaction of the Lodge, motioned
and carried in the affirmative, that Bro. be fully acquitted of the
charges made against him." There is no record of the other story being
heard. June 8, the following officers were elected for the ensuing twelve
mouths: Charles T. Chase, W. M. ; James Campbell, S. W. ; Horace
Preston, J. W. ; D. B. McKenny, Sec'y : James McKenny, Treasurer :
Nathan Morehouse, S. D. : Stephen Fuller, J. D. ; William Rogers and
A. Brown, Stewards; Joseph Mason, Tyler.
MACON LODGE NO. 8.
The only member added to this Lodge by raising, during 1843, was
E. D. Carter, March 20.
Feb. 21, the Lodge addressed an invitation to the " Washingtonian
Temperance Society," to join in the celebration of " the birthday of the
illustrious father of the country." Feb. 22, the day was duly celebrated,
the Lodge proceeding to the Court House in procession, where an oration
was delivered by Bro. J. H. Matheny. Upon returning to the hall, an
answer to their invitation extended to the Temperance Society was read,
which was deemed so discourteous that it was ordered to be returned
" without note or comment." A vote of thanks was tendered Bro.
Matheny. On motion of Bro. Gorin,
"Ordered, That the thanks of this Lodge be returned to each of the ladies
composing the choir of the Masonic celebration of the 22d inst."
March 11, a resolution was passed providing that the officers should be
elected at the regular meetings preceding the anniversaries of the Sts.
John. March 18, a resolution providing for subscription for one copy of
" C. W. Moore's magazine" was lost. March 20, the financial reports to
the Lodge showed that the debts due to, and cash in the treasury of the
Lodge, amounted to 873.20; debts due by the Lodge, $91.48, which was
818.28 more- than the Lodge owned. May 30, Bro. Gorin wanted to fine
all members who were absent three regular meetings consecutively, but
the Lodge refused to sustain him. We are inclined to the belief that he
has materially changed his mind since that time. The custom of fining
members for non-attendance was at that time almost universally prac-
ticed, but as it was a plain violation of that portion of the charge to the
E. A. where he is told that on no account should he neglect his business,
the custom was soon dropped, and never since revived. The practice,
too, of paying dues, in those days was somewhat different from the
208 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
present. It was the custom at that time to charge so much per meeting,
which was generally paid at the close of the evening session. This,
however, soon became a very great bother, and the present system of
annual and semi-annual dues was adopted, although there are some
Lodges in which a quarterly payment of dues is still exacted. It is useless
to require payment of dues oftener than once in each year, at the time
of election. It simplifies the accounts of the Lodge, is much easier on
the Secretaries, who have, as a general thing, plenty to do, and gives
less room for mistakes, and sometimes hard feelings.
May 28th, the following officers were elected : Joseph King, W. M.;
J. E. Gorin, S. W.; J. Y. Braden, J. W.; H. J. Armstrong, Treas.; W. B.
Bosworth, Sec.; James Ashton, Steward and Tyler.
Sept. 2d, charges were preferred against a brother, and referred to a
committee, which committee, on the 5th of September, reported the
testimony taken, and wound up their report by a resolution declaring
the brother expelled. The report and resolution was laid upon the table
until the next regular cymmunication; but on the 6th of September, the
vote laying the report on the table was reconsidered, and the report put
to vote and lost. One would naturally suppose that that ended the mat-
ter; but it did not, for on the 7th of October the vote on the adoption of
the report, by which it was lost, was reconsidered, the report and resolu-
tion taken up, discussed, put to vote, and carried, and the brother ex-
pelled. Verily, in the matter of trials, our forefathers were somewhat
deficient. Nov. 4th, the Building Committee reported that the expenses
of the building had, up to that time, amounted to $650.16, of which
$354.47 had been paid, leaving a balance of $303.69 unpaid ; that the
subscriptions of sundry brethren in Decatur and Spriiigfield, which re-
mained unpaid, amounted to $98.25 ; leaving $205.44 to be provided for.
The following officers were elected at this meeting: Henry Prather,
W. M.; H. J. Armstrong, S. W.; W. B. Bosworth, J. W.; H. Robinson,
Treas.; J. J. Peddicord, Sec.; Henry Hummell, Steward and Tyler.
RUSHVILLE LODGE NO. 9.
The brethren raised by this Lodge during 1843, were Andrew LeCroix,
Geo. Edgar, Wm. A. Richardson, Peter C. Vance, and Edward G. Curtis.
We are unable to give the date of these raisings, and, in fact, nothing
beyond the return, which is here given :
"RETURN OF RUSHVILLE LODGE No. 9. — RUSHVILLE.
"James L. Anderson, M.; Wm. A. Richardson, S. W.; Hart Fellows,
J. W.; James McCrosky, Treas.; Adams Dunlap, Sec.; John B. Seeley,
S. D.: George Edgar, J. D.; T. G. Garrett, S. and T.
"Master Masons. — James L. Anderson, Levi Lusk, John Todhunter,
Alexander Brazleton, William Edgar, Marshall Smith, Nathan Brooks,
HISTORY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS. 209
Peter C. Vance, Edward G. Curtis, Andrew LeCroix, William Davis,
Josiah Parrott, James H. Chick, Louis Horton, Abner McDowell, Samuel
McIIatton, Henry Murray, Rensselaer Wells.
"Fellow Crafts. — Isaac Greer, Joseph Montgomery, Isaac Ewing, A. H.
Berry.
"Entered Apprentices. — George B. Rogers, Tydence W. Lane, John
Blackford, Irwin Lemaster, Solomon C. Waid, Wm. II. Crawford, Louis
Robertson, Abraham Tolles."
JULIET LODGE NO. 10.
We are unable to obtain any information concerning this Lodge, beyond
its return to the Grand Lodge :
" RETURN OF JULIET LODGE No. 10. — JULIET.
" Norman Hawley, W. M.; Elias Havens, S. W.; Joel George, J. W.;
James Browdee, Treas.; Thomas J. Wade, Sec.; Jared Runyan, S. D.;
Thomas J. Thinney, J. D.; William E. Little, Steward; Robert G. Cook,
Tyler.
"Master Masons. — Joel A. Matteson, David L. Gregg, Joshua Rucker,
Henry G. Brown, Hiram Blanchard, Joshua Smith.
"Entered Apprentice. — Lewis Kerchival."
RISING SUN LODGE NO. 12.
The return of this Lodge to the Grand Lodge is here given :
" RETURN OF RISING SUN LODGE No. 12. — MONTROSE, IOWA.
" Stephen H. Bennett, W. M.; D. C. Davis, S. W.; C. Williams, J. W.;
James Anderson, Treas.; Samuel Wood, Sec.; Wm. Vanansdell, S. D.;
D. A. Pettigrew, J. D.: D. P. Fouts, Hiram Mott, Stewards; Elisha Smith
and H. Williams, Tylers.
"Master Masons. — Thomas King, John Patten, David Pettigrew,
Joseph A. Swasey, Luther Fuller, Chapman Duncan, Eli Day, Wheeler
Baldwin, Daniel P. Fouts, Lewis L. Dalrymple, Chas. W. Patten, Wm.
W. Willis, David Jacobs, William Smith, Daniel R. Williams, Truman
Trion, Charles B. Swasey, Samuel Conrad, John Killiam, Gabriel N.
Taylor, Ephraim Meckam, Samuel Wood, Isaac Paschal, John L. Hun-
saker, Wm. Eaton, Nathaniel Lacroe, Charles Hunt, Abram Day, Isaac
Harrison, Samuel M. Hough, D. U. H. Spinning, Russell P. Baldwin,
Emanuel Hickcock.
"Fellow Crafts. — John Spain, Abel Mott.
"Entered Apprentices. — James Letnmon, Samuel Brierly, Wm. R.
Smith."
ST. JOHN'S LODGE, NO. 13.
The following brethren received the Master's degree in this Lodge
during 1843: W. J. Cox, May 11 : E. M. Moore, June 7: G. W. Gilson,
Aug. 3.
—14
210 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
On the 7th of June the Lodge elected officers as follows : Warren
Brown, W. M.; Herman Whitehead, S. W. ; A. O'Connor, J. W.; E. M.
Moore, Sec.; Asa Holdridge, Treas. ; Samuel Norton, S. D. ; \V. J. Cox,
J. D. ; L. Woodward, Tyler.
On the minutes of July 6 we find the following entry : " The charter
was received from the Grand Lodge, and by a vote of the Lodge accepted,
and voted, that the blank for J. W., that became vacant by the decease
of our lamented brother, M. J. Ross, be filled by Bro. Ambrose O'Connor."
Nov. 30, the Lodge again held an election. Bro. Brown was re-elected
W. M. Bro. Norton was promoted from S. D. to S. W. Bro. Holdridge
from Treas. to J. W. Bro. Whitehead exchanged places with Bro.
Holdridge, and became Treasurer. Bro. O'Connor was relieved from the
superintendency of the Craft, and elected to take charge of the records.
.Bro. G. W. Gilson made his first official appearance as S. D. Bro. Moore
was relieved of the records, and placed as J. D., while Bro. Woodward
still held the post of Tyler.
WARREN LODGE NO. 14.
The following brethren received the sublime degree of Master Mason
in this Lodge during the year 1843: Ben. Bruce, Jan. 21 ; William N.
Dobbins, March 18; J. B. Kelly, March 25: E. J. Nicholson, April 14:
Woods M. Hamilton, Dec. 9.
The record of the meeting of the 16th March is surrounded by heavy-
black lines, and records the fact that on that day the Lodge interred the
remains of Bro. William Hillborn. March 18, a petition from sundry
brethren at New Haven, praying for a recommendation to their petition
for a new Lodge, was " received and placed on file." April 15, " it was
moved and seconded that the New Haven brethren re-consider their
petition to this Lodge praying to be recommended to the Grand Lodge.''
This we presume was done, as it was a great many years afterwards
that New Haven Lodge was set to work. May 22 is another mourning
record ; this time for " Bro. John M. Robinson, who departed this life in
his 50th year, at Ottaway, in this State, on the 26th day of April, 1843,
and taken to Carmi, his place of residence, by E. B. Webb." After
making suitable arrangements, the Lodge called off to meet " at Carmi,
at the Court House," which was done, and the funeral service properly
attended to. On the 24th June, officers as follows were elected: E. H.
Gatewood, W. M.; Edward Bogardus, S. W. ; T. G. S. Herod, J. W. ;
Alex. Kirkpatrick, Treas. ; M. Y. Johnson, Sec. ; and the following
appointments made: J. W. Tunnell, S. D. ; J. S. Roberts, J. D. ; J. M.
Burnett, Tyler. July 22, the records are again in mourning. Bro. John
Campbell, who died on July 21, at 12 o'clock midnight, was buried with
the honors of the Fraternity. In order to do this the Lodge proceeded
to New Haven, where Bro. Campbell resided. August 19, Bro. Warren,
HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 211
the Grand Secretary, was present and presided, a called meeting having
been convened to do honor to the brother for whom their Lodge was
named. The Lodge was destined to mourn during 1843, for around the
records of the meeting of Nov. 3d we find the heavy black lines which
indicate on the book before us that another had departed "to that un-
discovered country from whose bourne no traveler returns." This time
the Lodge was called upon to mourn the departure of Bro. J. D. Hughson.
The record informs us that Bro. Hughson died on Nov. 1, that he was
about forty years old, and a native of New York. The body was buried
with the ritualistic forms and ceremonies.
St. John's Day (Dec. 27) was duly observed by the Lodge, an oration
being delivered at the Methodist Church by Bro. lingerer, for which
oration and the use of the church, thanks were returned, and the oration
directed to be published in the "Illinois Republican," and "Illinois
State Gazette."
There is one matter of record in the proceedings of this Lodge which
we transfer to this page. It occurs in the minutes of the meeting of
April 15 :
"The Lodge was then closed in harmony, in due and ancient form,
after which several brethren were complimented with the degree of
Knight of Constantinople, in form and harmony."
Think of that! ye who have seen the shoemaker, the blacksmith, the
baker, and the candle-stick maker, to say nothing of the weaver and
his shuttle. Complimented! We should say so.
PEORIA LODGE NO. 15.
The following named brethren received the third degree in this Lodge
during 1843 : Irwin B. Doolittle, Jan. 28; William B. Doolittle, Feb. 2 ;
John Adams, Feb. 11; James F. Wilkins and John C. Heyl, Aug. 19;
Samuel S. Guyer, Nov. 18.
January 28, the charter was received and accepted. Accompanying
the charter was a proxy to Bro. William Henderson, "or any other
Past Master," conferring authority to constitute the Lodge and install
its officers. Bro. Henderson not being present, Bro. Simeon DeWitt
Drown was appointed to perform that duty. The Lodge was then con-
stituted, and Bro. Samuel H. Davis installed as Master; Augustus 0.
Garrett, as Senior Warden; Andrew M. Hunt, as J. W. ; George Met-
•calfe, Treasurer; William Mitchell, Secretary; Peter Sweat, Senior
Deacon; Ralph Hamlin, Junior Deacon; and Chester Hamlin, Tyler.
Bro. Drown, who hailed from Chester Lodge No. 71, Ohio, was elected an
honorary member. July 8, a committee was appointed to ascertain why
some of the officers and brethren of the Lodge had not been present for
several meetings past, and on August 5th the committee reported as
follows :
212 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"The committee appointed to call on absenting brethren for the reasons of
their non-attendance, respectfully report that most of the absenting brethren
have been called upon, and that various reasons have been assigned for absence
and irregular attendance. Several of the brethren have excuses, which, to the
committee, appear satisfactory ; some of them have since attended, or are now
present and ready to explain in person better than can be done by this commit-
tee. Your committee, however, would state that several of the absentees have
assigned as a reason for their non-attendance, the unsatisfactory manner in
which the work and business of the Lodge have of late been conducted; and
more than one have stated their unwillingness or reluctance to sit in a Lodge
unless its proceedings can be conducted in a manner more Masonic, and less
irksome and unpleasant to the feelings of those who have the love of the Order
and the good of Masonry at heart. But that part of the business of your com-
mittee, which is, therefore, particularly interesting to the Lodge, was with our
Worshipful Master, for to his frequent non-attendance is in a great measure
attributed the unsatisfactory manner in which the Lodge of late has been con-
ducted. The reasons for his withdrawal appear to be no other than those stated
by him to the Lodge at a former communication. They appear to be founded
on the participation of several of the brethren in some public proceedings in
relation to an attempted organization of a certain association in the town of
Peoria, whereby, as he alleges, some of his family and his Gospel minister were
disrespectfully interfered with and unjustly deprived and hindered of their un-
doubted rights and privileges. Your committee have endeavored seriously and
impartially to weigh this matter with the consideration it seems to deserve, and
in the spirit of conciliation, peace, and harmony— being the beauty of our Order;
and, moreover, that the Lodge may not appear to sanction disturbance and dis-
order out of its sacred precincts, nor countenance disrespectful or unmasonic
conduct between its members, beg leave to submit the following preamble and
resolutions :
" WHEREAS. On the afternoon of the 13th of February last, a number of persons
met in the Court House, in this town, to take measures to prevent the public
organization of an anti-slavery society, appointed to take place in one of the
churches of the town, on the evening of that day; and,
" WHEREAS, At the meeting spoken of, several resolutions were adopted, two of
which were as follows:
" 'Resolved, That we will oppose the organization of any anti-slavery society in
the town of Peoria, and that however desirous we may be that this our opposition
should be confined to reason and argument alone, yet, in case it should become
necessary, in order to prevent the catastrophe, that force should be used (how
much soever we may regret the necessity), we shall feel ourselves bound to resort
thereto, when all others have proved unsuccessful.
"'Resolced, That the citizens of Peoria will attend en masse at the Main Street
Presbyterian Church, this evening, and aid the committee to enforce the resolu-
tions of this meeting.'
"AND, WHEREAS, Two members of this Lodge were appointed on the committee
to present said resolutions at the anti-siavery meeting, which duty they per-
formed; and,
•' WHEREAS, Said meeting in the church was thus interrupted and prevented,
by the threats of physical force contained in the resolutions, from carrying into
effect the object for which it had met; and,
" WHEREAS, Five or six other members of this Lodge were at the said meeting,
some of them countenancing the scenes of disorder which were there acted;
therefore,
"Resolved, That without expressing any opinion on the subject of slavery or
anti-slavery, we admit, in its full sense, the constitutional right of the people
HISTOEY OF MASON11Y IN ILLINOIS. 213
peaceably to assemble for any purpose not forbidden by the laws of the land,
and that the interference of the members of this Lodge at the anti-slavery meet-
ing alluded to, was incompatible with their duty as friends of the \F\V- • good
citizens, and as Masons."
June 24, a recommendation was granted to the petition of certain
brethren, residing in and near Pekin, for a new Lodge. September 23,
a like recommendation was granted certain brethren at Farmington,
Fulton county, and on October 7th, to certain brethren in and near
Henderson, in Knox county. The names of the petitioners are not gi^en.
On the 31st of July, Bro. George Farrell was buried with the usual
forms and ceremonies. On December 27, officers as follows were elected :
Samuel H. Davis, W. M.j Augustus 0. Garrett, S. W.; Geo. T. Metcalfe,
J. W.; William E. Mason, Treas.; Simeon D. W. Drown, Sec.; Chester
Hamlin, Tyler. At this meeting a resolution was introduced providing
for the celebration of St. John's Day, on the 24th of June next, wbich
was laid over until the regular meeting in January. The brethren were
certainly taking time by the forelock.
TEMPERANCE LODGE NO. 16.
Five brethren received the Master's degree in this Lodge this year,
viz.: William Black, February 22; G". C. Wood and M. Scott, May 15;
J. T, B. Stapp, June 16 ; G. G. Guthrie, June 22.
February 13, a brother of the Lodge presented charges and specifica-.
tions against the Worshipful Master. Bro. William Hodge having taken,
the East, the charges (which did not amount to much) were received and
referred to a committee, and on the 21st of February the committee re-
ported that they had heard the evidence, but asked until the next
regular meeting to make out their report, which was granted. It was
resolved that the Lodge would on the next day accept the invitation of
the Washingtonian Temperance Society, which was accordingly done,
and as the record of February 22d informs us, " the day was spent pleas-
antly and satisfactorily to all." On March 13, the committee to whom
was referred the charges against the W. M., reported, the Master first
placing Bro. D. B. Hodge in the chair. The report covers four, and
nearly a half of the fifth, closely written pages of an ordinary sized
record book. There were four resolutions reported, the first of which
went on to recite that the brother was guilty of unmasonic conduct,
although without intention. The second required him to acknowledge
his error in open Lodge; the third provided that he should be "ad-
monished" by some brother selected by the Lodge, and in case of refusal
to submit to the penalty, he should stand suspended during the pleasure
of the Lodge; and finally, not content with finding the defendant guilty,
and sentencing him to be "admonished," they inllict the same penalty
upon the plaintiff for the "impropriety of his conduct in the Lodge at
the time he laid his grievance before that body." The W. M. having
214 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
acquiesced in the decision of the Lodge, Bro. William Hodge was selected
to "admonish" him, which duty was performed, the W. M. having first
acknowledged his error. The plaintiff " failed to come to time."
This case has been cited because we having relied upon the superior
wisdom of those above us — have been led to believe that a " W. M. can
not be tried by his Lodge;" but here is an instance where the Lodge
could and did try their Master. Everything was done in order and
decorum; nevertheless, we believe there are very few Lodges in these
da; ^ that would attempt to try their Master, and Temperance Lodge
would probably be the last to try the experiment over again.
On the 5th of June, Bro. Warren visited the Lodge, and lectured the
brethren.
June 12, the semi-annual election was held. Bro. Eemann was re-
elected W. M. ; D. B. Hodge was taken from the South-east corner and
placed in the West; J. E. Hall was continued as the pillar of Beauty;
Abner Johnson was selected to take charge of the Treasury ; and Wm.
Black to keep the records and archives ; Bro. Q. C. Alexander was
selected to sit between the W. M. and the Treasurer; while J. M. Scott
became the medium of communication with the outer world; and, as
usual, Bro. Moses Phillips was selected to sit outside and guard the
entrance, and at the same time expected to know more about the Lodge
and its workings than any other brother.
June 16, the committee on celebration of St. John's Day reported that
they had made arrangements with Brother Thomas Bayse to furnish
dinner for one hundred persons for forty dollars, which amount they had
pledged themselves to raise; that they had " procured an orator in the
person of W. B. Herrick, of Moriah Lodge ;" that the Lodge of I. 0. 0. F.,
of Greenville, desired to celebrate with them, and to have an oration
from one of their number, which was acceded to. They further reported
that they had invited the neighboring Lodges, and had prepared a " pro-
gramme of exercises."
June 24, the Lodge assembled, there being quite a number of visitors,
among whom were Breth. Warren and J. R. Gorin, both future Grand
Masters, although the probability is that neither one of them thought so
at the time. The Lodge formed in procession under the marshaling of
Bro. Alexander, and "left the hall preceded by a band of music." At
Galiatin Street the procession was joined by Clark Lodge I. 0. 0. F., and
at the residence of " Col. Black," by " a large number of ladies." The
procession proceeded to the M. E. Church, where J. M. Davis delivered
an address on behalf of the Odd Fellows. Bro. Warren then installed
the officers of the Lodge, when another address was delivered by Bro.
Herrick. June 10, a committee appointed at a previous meeting to
procure a hall, reported that they "had procured from the Trustees of
the tovvn of Vandalia, the perpetual lease of the old Representatives Hall,
HISTORY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS. 215
rent free." October 11, the Lodge buried the remains of Bro. Erastus
Todd, " late of Oswego Lodge No. 232, New York." Nov. 13, sundry
brethren at Greenville were recommended to the Grand Master for a
dispensation for a new Lodge.
December 13, the following election was had : J. T. B. Stapp> W. M.;
Q. C. Alexander, S. W.; C. II. Hodge, J. W.; G. C. Wood, Treas.; W. M.
Black, Sec.; Moses Philips, Tyler. H. C. Remann was appointed S. D.;
James M. Scott, J. D. This election entirely revolutionized the Lodge —
neither the Master or Wardens had ever held either of the offices to
which they were elected. We notice that in the earlier days very little
attention was paid to the law requiring the Master elect to serve as
a Warden previous to his election. Dec. 27, the officers were installed.
MACOMB LODGE NO. 17.
The dispensation for this Lodge was granted January 30th, 1843, by
Grand Master Helm, to Charles Hays, Rezin Naylor, Jas. Chandler, Jr.,
John Anderson, Thomas T. Smithers, Alex. Simpson, 0. M. Hoagland,
" and several other brethren." We are not informed as to the Lodge that
recommended the petitioners, but presume it was Rushville.
The record of the first meeting reads as follows :
'•MACOMB, ILL., Feb. 24, A. L. 5843, A. D. 1813.
" The following named Past Master Masons, viz.: Charles Hays,
Rezin Naylor, James Chandler, Jr., John Anderson, Thomas T. Smithers,
Alexander Simpson, 0. M. Hoagland, and others, having received a dis-
pensation from the M. W. Grand Master of the State of Illinois, to form
a Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons in the town of Macomb, county of
McDonough, and State of Illinois, congregated together on the date
as above written, viz.:
"Present: W. Levi Lusk, S. G. W., W. M., p. t.; Charles Hays,
S. W., p. t.: James Chandler, Jr., J. Vf.,p. t.; Joseph M. Walker, Treas.,
p. t.; John Anderson, Sec., p. t.; Rezin Naylor, S. D ,p. t.; Thos. Smithers,
J. T>.,p. t.; Geo. H. Rice, S. and Tyler, p. t.; Master Mason, Thos. A.
Brooking ; and proceeded to open a Lodge in the third degree of Masonry,
according to ancient form.
" Whereupon, the aforesaid dispensation is ordered to be recorded, and
is in the words and figures folllowing, to wit:
(The dispensation, which was of the usual form, is omitted.)
"And, thereupon, all but Past Master Masons having retired, Rezin
Naylor was presented, and duly installed Master of the Macomb Lodge,
under dispensation, and received the degree of Past Master. Bro. Chas.
Hays was then introduced and installed Senior Warden, and Bro. James
Chandler, Jr., was also introduced and installed Junior Warden. No
further business appearing, the Master Mason's Lodge was closed in due
form, and the Lodge of Entered Apprentices was opened according to
216 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
ancient form. Same officers as before. Bro. Hays then reported the
the following code of by-laws for the government of the Lodge, which
are as follows :
(They being much the same as now, are here omitted. The names
signed to the by-laws are the same as in the dispensation, with the ad-
dition of Joseph G. Walker, Thomas A. Brooking, and Preston Eyre.)
" The petition of Cyrus A. Lawson was then received, and in pursuance
of a dispensation of the the M. W. Grand Master, which is in the words
and figures, to-wit :
"WHEREAS, the brethren of Macomb Lodge desire to avail themselves of the
skill and experience of Bro. L. Lusk, appointed to install the officers of said
Lodge, by witnessing his mode of work, now therefore I, M. Helm, by virtue of
the authority vested in me as Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of the State of
Illinois, do hereby grant this my dispensation, authorizing the said Macomb
Lodge at the first meeting thereof, to initiate, pass and raise one candidate (the
usual rule requiring petitions to lie over one month for consideration, for one
lunar month) being for that occasion and in that one instance only, dispensed
with, provided, the candidate so to be initiated, shall be well known as a man of
unexceptionable moral character, and provided every member of said Lodge
has due notice of the time, place and object of said meeting, and provided also,
as in all other cases, the ballot shall be unanimously in favor of said candidate.
."Given at Springfield, Illinois, under my hand and private seal, this 23th day
of January, A. D. 1813.
"MEREDITH HELM, G. M. G. L. 7."
•SEAL. •
" Whereupon, on motion, the Lodge proceeded to ballot upon the peti-
tion of Cyrus A. Lawson, which was found unanimously in his favor. On
motion, Cyrus A. Lawson was introduced and initiated an Entered Ap-
prentice Mason, according to ancient form, and received a lecture and
charge from the Worshipful Master. The Lodge was then called from
labor until to-morrow morning at 10 o'clock."
The brethren who received the degree of Master Mason in this Lodge
are as follows : Cyrus A. Lawson, Feb. 25; Henry L. Bryant, William
Ervin, J. E. Wyne, April 14; William T. Head, September 2 ; Pinckney
H. Walker, December 26; N. Montgomery, December 27. April 14,
George H. Rice, late of Xenia Lodge No. 49, Ohio, Thomas A. Brook-
ing, of Mansfield Lodge No. 66, Kentucky, Charles M. Bartleson, Lodge
No. 3, Philadelphia, Pa., and Alfred Loomis, Whitestown Lodge No. — ,
New York, were admitted as members. The following "subordinate offi-
cers" were elected : Henry L. Bryant, Secretary : Charles M. Bartleson,
Treasurer; John Anderson, Steward; George H. Rice, Tyler; and Breth.
Wyne and Ervin were appointed Deacons.
On September 2d, the Lodge decided to apply to the Grand Lodge for
a charter, and named Bro. James Chandler, Jr., as W. M.; Joseph E.
y lie as S. W., and William Ervin as J. W. On the 7th October, the
HISTOEY OF MASONKY IX ILLINOIS. 217
charter granted by the Grand Lodge was read and accepted, whereupon
the Lodge proceeded to install the officers named in the charter. As
at the next meeting the old officers appeared in their places, we are in-
clined to believe that the officers named in the resolution of the Lodge
were not named in the charter. December 2, another election was had,
which resulted as follows : James Chandler, Jr., W. M.; Joseph E.
Wyne, S. W.; William T. Head, J. W.; Charles M. Bartleson, Treasurer;
Henry L. Bryant, Secretary ; Alfred Loomis and Cyrus A. Lawson, Dea-
cons ; George H. Rice, Steward and Tyler.
LAFAYETTE LODGE NO. 18.
The dispensation for this Lodge was granted in 1842, but for some
reason the Lodge did not meet until the 13th day of January, 1843. The
petition for dispensation was recommended by Juliet Lodge No. 10 ; but
who the petitioners were is to us unknown, or at least the majority of
them.
The record of the first meeting reads as follows :
" CHICAGO, ILL., June 13, A. D. 1843, A. L. 5843.
"LaFayette Lodge, U. D., met agreeable to agreement, for the purpose
of organizing the same, by the installation of officers. Present, the
Worshipful N. Hawley, Master of Juliet Lodge No. 10, and the W.
Samuel H. Gilbert, Master of the Lodge; T. W. Smith, Senior Warden;
Carding Jackson, Junior Warden; L. C. Kercheval, Sec., p. t.; Isaac
Haight, Treas., p. t., John Davis, S. D.,p. t.; Joseph Fischbene, J. D.;
F. A. Howe, Tyler, and Breth. J. H. Sullivan and William Harman,
Master Masons, and the Lodge was opened in the 3d degree of Masonry.
The Worshipful Master of Juliet Lodge proceeded to the installation of
officers of this Lodge, and delivered the charge to the W. M. and other
officers, and then declared the Lodge duly organized. And on motion
and second, Bros. Smith, Howe, and Kercheval were appointed a com-
mittee to prepare by-laws and rules for the government of this Lodge.
There being no further business, the Lodge was called from labor to
refreshment until half-past 7 o'clock, to-morrow."
The raisings reported by this Lodge are as follows : • P. T. McMahan,
— ; W. H. Davis, Oct. 16; John Blackstone, Oct. 23 ; George B. Fear-
ing, Xov. 6; Joseph Filkins and Samuel McKay, Nov. 27 ; H. Hatch,
Dec. 4; J. R. Malony and Florence Mahoney, Dec. 22. The names
signed to the by-laws previous to the raising of Bro. McMahan, were
S. H. Gilbert, Carding Jackson, II. W. Bigelow, Samuel J. Lowe, L. C.
Kercheval, John Davis, J. Fischbene, F. A. Howe, Barnabas Hinton,
William Harman, John Ferns. Oct. 16, John Ferns was elected Tyler
until the next regular communication. Dec. 18, the following officers
were elected : Carding Jackson, W. M.; II. W. Bigelow, S. W.; Mathias
Taylor, J. W.; Samuel J. Lowe, Treas.; L. C. Kercheval, Sec.; John
218 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
Davis, S. D.; Joseph Fishbone, J. D.; F. A. Howe and " Barney Horton,"
Stewards; John Ferns, Tyler.
The visitors to this Lodge were numerous, and among them we notice
the following : Mathias Taylor, of Essex Lodge No. 48, New Jersey ; R.
L. Baker, St. Joseph's, Michigan ; Sampson, Ancient Lodge, and
George K. Cooley, Moriah Lodge, both of New York ; Joseph A. Atkin-
son, St. Stephens, Edinburg ; E. "Whetherby and E. W. Herrick, Juliet
No. 10 ; John R. Case, Apollo Lodge, Troy, N. Y.; Augustus 0. Garrett,
Peoria No. 15 ; M. Mcllvaine, St. John's No. 9, N. Y., and W. F. Walker,
Apollo Lodge, N. Y., nearly all of whom subsequently became members
of the Lodge.
HANCOCK LODGE NO. 20.
The dispensation for this Lodge was granted by W. M. Bro. Helm, but
at what time we do not know. We are unable to extend any informa-
tion concerning this Lodge, other than its returns, from the fact that its
early records were destroyed by fire. The first return of this Lodge was
made to the Grand Lodge in 1843, at which time it was chartered.
This return we here give :
"RETURN OF HANCOCK LODGE No. 20. — CARTHAGE.
"Lewis Evans, W. M.; Benj. A. Gallop, S. W.; Benjamin Avise, J. W.;
Chancey Robinson, Sec.; Samuel Comer, Treas.; E. S. Freeman, S. D.;
William Darnall, J. D.; Wm. G. Yetter, Tyler.
"MASTER MASONS. — David Baldwin, J. Berry, Daniel Prentis, E. B.
Baldwin, F. J. Bartlett, Ellis Hughes, George Buckraan, Thomas Ben-
nett."
The Lodge was chartered at the communication of the Grand Lodge
in 1842. The hall of this Lodge was destroyed by fire in 1856, in which
fire all the books, papers, and matters of record were consumed.
WARSAW LODGE NO. 21.
The first meeting of this Lodge was held January 9, 1843, under a
dispensation granted by Meredith Helm, Grand Master, at Warsaw,
Hancock county. The following brethren were present: A. J. Chitten-
den, W. M.; John Montague, S. W.; James Moss, J. W.; Mark Aldrich,
Sec.; M. Plumb, S. D.; L. B. Adams, J. D.; German Andrews, Tyler.
The Lodge being opened on the third degree, was "duly constituted"
and the officers installed, the following brethren officiating as grand
officers : Louis Ervin, D. G. M., p. L: L. N. Scovill, S. G. W., p. t.; D. S.
Hollister, J. G. W.,p. t.; S. Comer, G. Treas. ,p. t.: C. Robinson, G. Sec.,
p. t.; B. L. Gallup, S. G. ~D.,p. t.; W. Folshaw, J. G. D.,p. t.; E. H. Spin-
ning, G. S. E.,p. t.; J. A. Forgis, G. M.,p. t.; E. B. Baldwin, G. T.,p. t.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 219
The following additional brethren were present : L. B. Stoddard, J.
W. Collidge, J. B. Nobles, and Benjamin Avise. Of these, all except
Ervin and Avise were members of the Mormon Lodges at Nauvoo.
The petitions of Joseph Wilkinson and H. G. Keynolds were received,
referred, and by authority of a dispensation from Grand Master Helm,
acted on instanter, and the petitioners elected. January 10. Joseph
Wilkinson and H. G. Reynolds were initiated, passed and raised, Past
Grand Master Jonathan Nye presiding.
The additional raisings during the year 1843, were as follows: II. G.
Stephens, Jan. 27 ; William A. Bacon, Aug. 21 ; C. E. Dodge and J. Coch-
ran, Nov. 7; E. E. Hill and William A. Baker, Nov. 20.
January 27, on motion of H. G. Reynolds, the Grand Lodge was re-
quested to appoint Bro. Nye as a delegate to the Baltimore convention.
July 4, the Lodge " formed a procession and marched to the bower pre-
pared for the occasion, where Bro II. Stevens delivered an oration suit-
able to the occasion, after which the brethren partook of a sumptuous
repast prepared by the citizens." Sept. 1st, the Lodge buried with the
usual honors, Brio. Joseph Wilkinson, the first brother upon whom the
Lodge conferred the Master's degree. Oct. 12, the following officers were
elected: A. J. Chittenden, W. M.; John Montague, S. W.; James Moss,
J. W.; L. B. Mitchell, Treas.; H. Stevens, Sec.; L. B. Adams, S. D.; Wil-
liam Bacon, J. D.; B. F. Marsh and M. Aldrich, Stewards; German
Andrews, Tyler.
Nov. 20, Breth. Wm. A. Baker, William Bacon and R. E. Hill were
demitted in order to assist in the formation of a new Lodge at Alex-
andria, Clark county, Missouri.
MILWAUKEE LODGE NO. 22.
The dispensation for this Lodge was granted during the year 1842, by
Grand Master Helm, and made its first return to the Grand Lodge of
Illinois, at the communication of 1843, We are unable to present any
further information regarding this Lodge than its returns from year to
year.
The first return is as follows:
" RETURN OF MILWAUKEE LODGE No. 22. — MILWAUKEE.
"Lemuel B. Hull, W. M.; Abram B. Smith, S. W.; David Merrill, J.
W.; W. W. Kellogg, Treas.; Charles S. Hurley, Sec.; D. F. Lawton, S. D.;
T. Wainwright, J. D.; W. Farnsworth and Owen Aldrich, Stewards.
" MASTER MASONS. — James Sanderson, William M. Card, Henry C.
West, John Waters, William C. Wartons, David Kerser, Alanson Sweet,
Isaac C. Loomis.
" ENTERED APPRENTICES. — Edward Staals, Edward Wrisner.
220 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
CASS LODGE NO. 23.
This Lodge was instituted under a dispensation granted by Grand
Master Helm, in the year 1842, made its first returns to the Grand Lodge
of 1842, at which time it was granted a charter as No. 11, but owing to cer-
tain irregularities the vote was reconsidered and the dispensation con-
tinued. In 1843 the Lodge was chartered as No. 23. The number 11
has never been filled, but has remained vacant from that day to this.
Since the remarks concerning Cass Lodge, under the head of 1842, were
written, we have been placed in possession of the records of the Lodge
from its organization. The first meeting was held January 1st, 1842,
when the following brethren were present: P. Underwood, A. Bonney,
E. Rew, A. Dutch, A. Lyons. In addition to these were Breth. Alex-
ander Dunlap, D. G. M., who presided ; Wm. B. Warren, G. Sec., who
acted as Senior Warden, and Bro. Robinson, of Harmony Lodge.
The officers were duly installed as follows : P. Underwood, W. M.; A.
Bonney, S. W.; E. Rew, J. W., and the Lodge set to work. The raisings
during 1842 were as follows: C. S. VanAlstine, March 26; Thomas
Eyre, April 23; James Logan and N. B. Thompson, June 18; John
Daley, Aug. 20.
In the record of June 18, we find the following entry :
" Oil motion of Bro. A. Bonne3T,
"Resolved, That the brethren of this Lodge each wear a badge of mourning in
memory of our deceased Bro. Ephraim Rew, for three months."
This is the only allusion to the death of this brother.
Sept. 18th was the last meeting held in 1842. The Lodge did not
again meet until May 13th, 1843. But one raising was reported in 1843,
viz.: W. J. DeHaven, Sept. 2d. On the 20th November, 1843, the Lodge
was duly constituted as Cass Lodge No. 23, by Alexander Dunlap, Grand
Master.
PEKIN LODGE, U. D.,
Made the following return, at this session of the Grand Lodge : Leon-
ard Knott, W. M.; Daniel Fancy, S. W.; Samuel P. Baily, J. W.; Wm.
B. Doolittle, Treas.; I. B. Doolittle, Sec.; E. S. Marks, S. D.; F. Fitch, J.
D.; Francis Johnson, Tyler.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 221
UNDER THE JURISDICTION OF THE GRAND
LODGE OF MISSOURI.
CLINTON LODGE, AT CARLYLE.
Raisings reported : J. C. Mooe, April 8th ; VanTramp Turner, August
5th. Jan. 9th, the Lodge met, but was not opened, owing to its "being
a very cold night, and no fire conveniences."
At the meeting of February 13th, Bro. Hervey, who had absented him-
self from several of the meetings of the Lodge, moved "that the 3d section
of the 15th article be put in force against himself, without excuse from
beginning, in consequence of his own neglect. Adopted, nem con."
Whereupon Bro. H. presented a bill to the Lodge for $3.50, which was
allowed, and the amount credited to his account. It is possible that Bro.
H. thought the Lodge would fine him for absence, and he having a bill
against the Lodge, which had just before refused to allow a number of
bills for want of authority on the part of the persons who contracted the
debts, was in all probability fearful his bill would share a like fate, and
accordingly presented it as a "set off" against his fines.
May 6th, the following officers were elected : Joshua T. Bradley, W.
M.; Henry Scott, 8. W.; Joseph C. Moore, J. W.; 0. IT. P. Maxey, Treas.;
Christopher N. Halstead, Sec ; Wingate H. Maddux, Tyler. The follow-
ing were appointed : William Wilcox, and William Morton, Deacons.
It appears from the following entry in the records of October 7th, that
Bro. Bradley was District Deputy Grand Master for the Missouri Lodges
in Illinois :
" Ordered, That the Secretary draw his order on the Treasury for the sum of
eighteen dollars, in favor of J. T. Bradley, Dist. Dep. Gr'd Master, for dues from
this Lodge to the Grand Lodge of Missouri."
FRANKLIN LODGE, AT UPPER ALTON.
Raisings reported: Caleb K. Burgoyne, and Isham Hardy, March
llth ; Elias Hibbard, April 15th ; George Lebold, July 8th.
June 3d, we find the following record: "Lodge met pursuant to
special call. Opened on 8d degree. Called off to attend the funeral of
Bro. J. C. Bruner. Lodge called on and passed resolutions appropriate to
the mournful occasion."
Oct. 7th, the following resolutions were passed :
" 1st. Resolved, That our delegation to the grand annual communication of the
Grand Lodge of Missouri, to be holden on the second Monday in October next,
are hereby instructed to apply to said Grand Lodge for permission for this Lodge
to report to, and join the Grand Lodge of Illinois at its grand annual communi-
cation in A. L.58il.
222 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"2d. Resolved, That we feel grateful to the officers and members of the Grand
Lodge of Missouri for the many aots of kindness which they have conferred up-
on us, and that we tender them our fraternal acknowledgements for the same."
FAR WEST LODGE, AT GALENA.
This Lodge did but little work during the year, and that in the first
degree only. The only act of importance was the recommendation, on
the 14th of January, of a petition to the Grand Lodge of Missouri of
certain brethren at Platteville, Wisconsin Territory, for a Lodge at that
place.
HILLSBORO LODGE, AT HILLSBORO.
Raising reported, Nathaniel Maddux, February 6th.
At the meeting of February 9th, the following entry was made:
" Notice was given that at our next regular meeting there would be a
resolution offered to demit from the Grand Lodge of Missouri."
March 16, the following record appears :
"The last proceedings read and appoved. A debate sprang up in
reference to the resolution to demit from tbe Grand Lodge. After which,
it was
"Resolved, That with the consent of the Grand Lodge of Misouri, and the grant
of our petition, we will demit from her, and attach ourselves to the Grand Lodge
of Illinois."
August 3d, we find the following:
" Notice was given that there would be a resolution offered at the next
regular meeting to remain under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of
Missouri."
And on September 16th, the following was adopted :
"Resolved, That it is not the wish of this Lodge to demit from the Grand Lodge
of Missouri, but that with her consent, we will remain under her jurisdiction."
The visit of Bro. Bradley, D. D. G. M., Grand Lodge of Missouri, just
about this time, may account for this action.
ST. GLAIR LODGE, AT BELLEVILLE.
February 21, the following resolution was passed:
"Resolved, That no brother Mason ought to sue another brother in a court of
law."
September 19, the following preamble and resolution were adopted :
" WHEREAS, St. Clair Lodge No. 60 is located within the limits of the State of
Illinois, and the Grand Lodge to which she owes her jurisdiction is situated in
another State; and,
" WHEREAS, Every interest and inducement, as well as fraternal feeling, prompts
this Lodge to withdraw from the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Missouri,
and become subject to the Grand Lodge of our own State; therefore, be it
"•Resolved, That St. Clair Lodge No. 60 respectfully intimate to the Grand Lodge
of Missouri their wish to withdraw from her jurisdiction, for the purpose of
becoming subject to the Grand Lodge of Illinois."
This preamble and resolution were presented by Bro. C. G. Y. Taylor.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS. 223
The returns of this Lodge have the seal of the Lodge attached, which
is the only Lodge that we have yet observed which placed their seal
upon their returns.
December 26, the "W. M. presented a " new charter from the M. W.
Grand Lodge of Illinois, giving the Lodge authority to work under the
name and style of St. Clair Lodge No. 24, which was read."
The Lodge then proceeded to the election of officers, which resulted as
follows : " P. W. Handle, W. M.; Alex. Reany, S. W.} Seth Catlin, J. W.;
G. W. Hook, S. D.; W. G. Goforth, J. D.; C. G. Y. Taylor, Sec.; L. D.
Turner, Treas ; C. H. Kettler, Marshal ; D. Wilver, Tyler. The officers
were then installed, and the Lodge constituted.
MARIOX LODGE, AT SALEM.
Raisings reported, Ira Potter and M. Pendenski, Jan. 25; Amaziah
Pilcher, July 10; J. W. McMurty, Sept. 11.
February 6, the following officers were elected : John A. Goudy, W. M.:
W. H. H. Barnes, S. W.; A. H. Barnes, J. W.; A. K. King, Treas.; H. S.
Mills, Sec.; M. W. Hall, S. D.; H. P. Boyakin, J. D.; James Cooper,
Steward ; Justice R. Ryman, Tyler.
August 14, Bro. Bradley Dist. Dep. Grand Master, presided. The
semi-annual election was held. The gavel was placed in the hands
of Bro. H. P. Boyaken. Bro. A. H. Barnes was commanded to "look
well to the West," and Bro. M. W. Hall received a like command as
regarded the South. The keys were intrusted to Bro. W. H. H. Barnes,
while Bro. H. S. Mills was condemned to another six months of "caco-
thes scribendi." Justice R. Ryman was placed between the Master and
Treasurer, and Ira Potter placed at the elbow of the " Pillar of Strength."
J. Cooper was placed outside the door, and A. K. King appointed to con-
duct the devotional exercises of the Lodge.
In the record of November 11, we find the following:
" Breth. King, W. H. H. Barnes, and Hall, were appointed a committee
to inquire into and report to this Lodge on the expediency of this Lodge
demitting from the Grand Lodge of Missouri, and joining the Grand
Lodge of Illinois."
December 11, the committee to whom was referred the question of
severing the connection of the Lodge with the Grand Lodge of Missouri,
asked and obtained further time to report.
In regard to the Lodges at Ottawa and Kaskaskia, we have no infor-
mation whatever.
CHAPTER XVII,
1844.
GRAND LODGE.
The fourth grand annual communication of the Grand Lodge was held
at Jacksonville, commencing October 7th, A. D. 1844.
Present : M. W. ALEXANDER DUNLAP, G. M.,
R. W. LEVI LUSK, D. G. M.,
W. CARDING JACKSON, G. S. W., pro tern.,
PETER SWEAT, G. J. W., pro tern.,
WM. B. WARREN, G. Secretary,
PHILIP COFFMAN, G. Treasurer,
CHAS. HOWARD, G. 8. D., pro tern.,
N. D. MORSE, G. J. D., pro tern.,
A. V. PUTNAM, G. Pursuivant,
GEO. HACKETT, G. Tyler.
REPRESENTATIVES.
No. 3.— A. Dunlap.
No. 8.— Chas. H. Pringle.
No. 9. — L. Lusk.
No. 15. — P. Sweat.
No. 18. — Carding Jackson.
No. 24.— Geo. Kelly, W. G. Goforth, E. H. Talbot.
No. 25.— Chas. Howard, David Allen, N. D. Morse.
The Grand Lodge was then opened in ample form, and with prayer by
the M. W. Grand Master.
The M. W. Grand Master then announced that since the last annual
communication he had granted dispensations:
"1st. To Bros. J. W. Edmondson, as Master; Benj. Hibbard, as Sr.
"Warden; and Jno. Miles as Jr. Warden, to hold a Lodge at Monmouth,
Warren county.
"2d. To Bros. N. D. Morse, Master; Jno. A. Wiley, Sr. Warden;
E. King, Jr. Warden, to hold a Lodge in Henderson, Knox county.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. i>25
"3d. Bros. Jacob Hardman, Master; Jonathan Miner, Sr. Warden:
8 amuel L. Baily, Jr. Warden, to hold a Lodge in Greenville, Bond county.
" 4th. Alex. H. Barnes, Master ; W. II. Burnet, Senior Warden ;
Noah Johnson, Junior Warden, to hold a Lodge in Mount Vernon,
Jefferson county.
"5th. Aaron Kinney, Master: Samuel Gould, Senior Warden; and
Harvey Smith, Junior WTarden, to hold a Lodge in the town of Farm-
ington.
"6th. David Allen, Master: Timothy Souther, Senior Warden; and
Sam. S. Bailey, Junior Warden, to hold a Lodge in the city of Alton.
"7th. W. H. Gayle, Master: Emery P. Eodgers, Senior Warden:
Jno. A. Frank, Junior Warden, to hold a Lodge in Waterloo, Monroe^
county."
The Grand Lodge was then adjourned until 2 o'clock P. M.
At 2 o'clock the Grand Lodge was called to labor. The following
additional representatives were present : No. 17, C. M. Bartleson; No.
19, John McNeal : No. 20, John Montague.
The Grand Master announced the following committees :
Returns and Work. — Bros. Jackson, Sweat, and Howard.
Petitions and Grievances. — Pringle, Bartleson, and Kelly.
finance and Accounts. — Morse, Allen, and McNeal.
Foreign Correspondence. — Warren, Lusk, and Montague.
To Examine Visiting Brethren. — Goforth, Coffman, and Pringle.
The Grand Lecturer reported as follows :
" The G. Lecturer bogs leave to report that in obedience to a resolution adopted
at the last grand annual communication, he proceeded to St. Louis, where he
found Bros. Carnegy and Foster, delegates from the Grand Lodge of Missouri
to the National Convention at Baltimore, and from them he obtained the lectures
as adopted by said Convention, and is now ready to report at any time to suit
the convenience of the Grand Lodge. L. LUSK, G. L.
" October 7th, 1844."
The Grand Lodge having been requested to exemplify the work before
Harmony Lodge, acceded to the request.
On motion of Bro. Lusk, "a committee was appointed to inquire into
the expediency of having a public procession on to-morrow, and to
report to-morrow morning."
" The committee appointed at the last annual communication to inquire
into the amount of funds belonging to the Grand Charity Fund, offered
the following report, which was received :
"GRAND LODGE OF ILLINOIS,
If il. In account with the Grand Charity Fund.
Oct. Received of No. 1 $7 50
Received of No. 3 6 50
Received of No. 4 9 75
1 *»
1 <J
226 HISTOKT OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
1842.
Received of No. 6 $4 25
Oct. 5. Received of No. 1 6 25
Received of No. 4 11 00
Received of No. 3 3 50
Received of No. C 4 00
Received of No. 8 3 75
Received of No. 9 7 50
Received of No. 12 3 75
Received of No. 23 .«...'.. 3 00
Nauvoo 33 33
J843 " 30 65
Warsaw 2 50
Hancock 3 53
Macomb 2 50
Nye 2 50
l,aFayet.;e 5 25
Rushville 9 25
^Springfield 8'25
Clinton 3 33
Equality 3 00
Vandalia '. 4 50
Peoria 3 33
$181 6?
!By cash to Bro. Nye $50 00
The following petition from Keokuk (Eagle) Lodge was received and
referred to the Committee on Petitions and Grievances :
" KEOKDK, September 24, 1844.
" To the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of Illinois :
"Your petitioners beg leave to state that they had letters of dispensation
granted to them by our Most Worshipful Grand Master, Meredith Helm, bearing
date the 28th day of December, A. L. 5842, A. D. 1842, in which dispensation
Henry King was our first Master; Moses Gray, Senior Warden; and Edward H.
Spinning, Junior Warden. Said Lodge was installed on the 17th day of January
following, by Past Grand Master Jonathan Nye; and from the time this Keokuk
Lodge was installed, to the 26th of September, A. L. 5843, A. D. 1843, there were
four persons initiated, passed, and raised, two others raised, seven initiated, and
one initiated and passed, being all the business that we had done up to the
above date of September 20th. We then made our report to the Grand Lodge,
and sent our book and work by L. Scovil, of Nauvoo Lodge (our delegate being
unwell and not able to attend the sitting of the Grand Lodge). Whether said
••Scovil gave us a fair representation or not, we have never known, but presume
he did not, as he has never given us a fair representation of the proceedings of
<he Grand Lodge; and we have known nothing, nor heard from the Grand
Lodge, only by common report. We have written twice to the Grand Secretary,
•und received no answer, and for what reason we know not, but presume that
he (the G. S.), did not get our communications, otherwise he would have
answered them. We further state that since we have heard these reports that
we were suspended, we have ceased to meet and work as a Lodge of Masons,
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 227
wishing to conform at all times to the long established usages of Masonry. We
are not aware of any wrong that we have done, and can not make any excuse ;
but we would say that it is more than probable that we had committed errors,
as we had not the constitution and by-laws of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, and
we had to be governed by old Masons instead of the by-laws of the Grand
Lodge. We would further say, that if we had committed errors, they were of
the hi ad and not of the heart, and if they had been pointed out to us, we would
most cheerfully abandoned them. We now ask the Grand Lodge to take our
case under consideration, and either renew our dispensation or grant us a
charter, and send some suitable person to this place to set us to work and give
us the necessary instruction, and we pledge ourselves as Masons to abide the
same. The reason we can not send a delegate to the Grand Lodge is, that almost
every Mason in this place is obliged to attend our next court (either as juror?,
parties, or witnesses), which sets the same week that the Grand Lodge holds its
session. We also wish, if there has been any charges preferred against us,
either as men or Masons, that the Grand Lodge will send a committee to this
place and inquire into our character, either as men or Masons. By so doing you
will confer a great favor on your petitioners, and as in duty bound, etc.
" EDWARD H. SPINNING,
MOSES GRAY,
JUSTIN MILLANLY,
DANIEL M. HODGE,
CHAS. 8. MOORE,
D. HINE, f
C. E. JOHNSON."
Bro. Sweat offered an amendment to the 5th section of the by-laws,
which was to strike out the words "and rejections of candidates." The
section provided that rejections, among other matters, should be reported
to the Grand Secretary.
The Grand Secretary and Treasurer reported, which reports were
referred to the Committee on Finance and Accounts.
The Grand Lodge was then adjourned until 9 o'clock of next morning,
at which time it was again called on. The following additional repre-
sentatives were present: No. ], H. S. Cooley ; No. 4, William Lavely ;
Xo. 7, D. B. McKcnny.
The Committee on Returns and Work reported as follows :
"The Committee on Returns and Work of Lodges beg leave to report in part,
that they have examined the returns of Franklin Lodge No. 25, at Upper Alton,
Illinois, and find said returns correct and dues paid.
'•Return of Maeomb Lodge No. 17, at Maeomb, Illinois, examined and found
correct, and dues paid.
" Return of Clinton Lodge No. 19, at Petersburg, Illinois, examined and found
correct, and dues paid.
"Return of Rushville Lodge No. 9, at Rushville, Illinois, examined and found
correct, and dues paid.
" Return of LaFayette Lodge No. 18, at Chicago, Illinois, examined and found
correct, and dues paid.
f Commit
228 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"Return of Peoria Lodge, at Peoria, Illinois, No. 15, for the year ISliJ, exam-
ined and found correct, and dues paid for that year.
"Return of Peoria Lodge, at Peoria, Illinois, No. 15, for the year 18-U, exam-
ined and found correct, and dues paid.
"They further report, that they have examined the work, return, and by-laws,
of Hiram Lodge, at Henderson, Illinois, and find them correct, and dues paid,
which Lodge is working under dispensation, and now prays a charter.
"They have examined the work, returns, and by-laws of Piasaw Lodge, at
Alton City, Illinois, U. D., and find their returns correct, dues paid, and charter
prayed for.
"They have examined the work, returns, and by-laws of Monroe Lodge,
U. D., at Waterloo, 111., and find them correct, dues paid, charter prayed for. We
would advise that said Lodge revise, condense, and adopt a new set of by-laws.
"Your committee recommend the following resolution:
"Resolved, That a charter issue to Hiram Lodge, as Hiram Lodge No. 26; that
a charter issue to Piasaw Lodge, as Piasaw Lodge No. 27; that a charter issue to
Monroe Lodge, as Monroe Lodge No. 28.
"CARDING JACKSON,"!
PETER SWEAT, }- Committee:'
CHAS. HOWARD,
The Committee on Petitions and Grievances presented the following
report, which was adopted :
" The committee to whom the petition of Eagle Lodge was referred, beg leave
to report, that they have collected all the information within their reach, touch-
ing the premises; and would recommend that a committee be appointed to re-
pair to Keokuk, and examine the subject more fully — and if said committee
should report favorably to the Grand Master, that the dispensation be renewed,
by said Lodge paying up all dues, and the expenses accruing from said investi-
gation.
" GEORGE KELLY, .")
C. H. PRINGLE, }- Committee."
CHAS. M. BARTLESON. j
The committee appointed to inquire into/#nd report as to the expedi-
ency of a public procession, reported adversely to any public demonstra-
tion, and offered the following resolution :
" Resolved, That Bro. Grand Orator, he requested to deliver an address in the
Grand (Lodge) Hall this evening, at 7 o'clock."
The resolution was adopted.
The Grand Lodge then went into an election, resulting as follows :
M. W. LEV! LUSK, of Rushville, G. M.
R. W. CARDING JACKSON, of Chicago, D. G. M.
W. D. ALLEN, of Alton, G. S. W.
W. N. D. MORSE, of Henderson, G. J. W.
W. W. B. WARREN, of Jacksonville, G. Sec.
W. P. COFFMAN, of Jacksonville, G. Treas.
W. R. E. SMITH, of Quincy, G. O.
REV. CHAS. HOWARD, of Alton, G. C.
W. GEO. HACKETT, of Jacksonville, G. T.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS. 229
The Grand Lodge was then called oft' until 2 o'clock P. M., when it
again met and was called to labor. Present: Same officers and mem-
bers as in the morning. Bro. Lusk, who had been appointed special
delegate to the Grand Lodge of Missouri, reported as follows:
"The undersigned, who was at the la.st Grand Annual Communication of this
Grand Lodge appointed a delegate to the M. \V. G. L. of Missouri, begs leave to
report, that in obedience to the resolution appointing him, he visited said Grand
Lodge at its annual convention. He had nothing specially committed to his
charge to communicate to the Grand Lodge of Missouri, but the courtesies of
this Grand Lodge.
" It is with great pleasure that he announces to this M. W. Grand Lodge that
his reception as your delegate was every way worthy of the M. W. G. Lodge of
Missouri, and evinced a disposition on the part of that M. W. Grand Lodge to
cultivate and reciprocate the relations which should ever characterize the mem-
bers of the Masonic family.
" L. LUSK."
The Committee on Returns and Work made the following additional
report :
" The Committee on Returns and Work of Lodges beg leave further to report
that they have examined the returns of Harmony Lodge No. 3, and find them
correct and dues paid.
" They have examined the returns of Macon Lodge No. 8, and find them cor-
rect and dues paid.
"They have examined the returns of Springfield Lodge No. 4, and find them
correct and dues paid.
"They have examined the returns of Friendship Lodge No. 7, and find them
correct and dues paid.
"They have examined the returns of Hancock Lodge No. 20, and find them
correct and dues paid.
"CARDING JACKSON,
PETER SWEAT,
CHARLES HOWARD."
Bro. R. M. Young offered the following :
" Resolved, That we esteem the 'Masonic College of Missouri,' recently estab-
lished in Monroe county, Missouri, by the Grand Lodge of that State, an insti-
tution worthy of our highest regard, aiid claiming our deep interest and solicitude
for its success.
•• A'' .-:ii!cdl, That we recommend the attention of every brother of the Fraterni-
ty, and of the friends of education generally, to the facility which the institution
affords for the acquisition of a thorough education.
"Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed by the Grand Lodge, to
ascertain whether beneficiaries will be received into the institution from this
State, and also to recommend what further action, if any, shall be taken by the
Grand Lodge of this State, for the purpose of advancing the cause of, and facil-
itating the means of acquiringan education, and that said committee make their
report to this Grand Lodge at the next annual communication."
Which, on motion, was adopted, and Bro. Grand Orator, R. M. Young,
appointed a committee to carry the same into effect.
230 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
Bro. Lavely moved to amend the by-laws, by striking out the word
"Jacksonville" and inserting the word "Springfield." Which amend-
ment Bro. Young amended by moving to strike out "Springfield" and
inserting "Quincy."
The Grand Secretary offered the following resolution :
" Resolved, That hereafter no subordinate Lodge will be required to pay Grand
Lodge dues for any members under the degree of Master Mason, and that alf
moneys paid during the present communication upon E. A. and Fellow Craft,
be refunded."
Which was adopted.
The Grand Master elect announced the following appointments :
ADAMS DUNLAP, Rushville, Deputy G. Secretary.
PETER SWEAT, Peoria, S. G. D.
CHAS. H. PRINGLE, Deeatur, J. G. D.
MATTHEW STACY, Jacksonville, G. Marshal. '
H. C. RBMANN, Vandalia, G. Steward.
WILLIAM LAVELY, Springfield, G. S. B.
In this list of elected and appointed grand officers, were three future
Grand Masters, viz.: William B. Warren, Nelson D. Morse, and William
Lavely. The Grand Lodge was then called off until 7 o'clock.
At 7 o'clock in the evening of Tuesday, the Grand Lodge was called
to labor. An oration was delivered by Bro. Cooley.
On motion of Bro. McKenney, the Grand Secretary and Treasurer
were directed to purchase a set of jewels and collars, not to cost exceed-
ing $100.
A vote of thanks was tendered Bro. Cooley for his "eloquent and able
address," and a copy requested for publication. After granting Bro.
Lavely leave of absence for the remainder of the session, the Grand
Lodge called off until Wednesday morning.
Wednesday morning the Grand Lodge was called to labor — the same
officers and members present as the proceeding day. Bro. Carding Jack-
son offered the following, which was adopted :
"Resolved, That at the Annual Communication of this Grand Lodge, each
member thereof appear with his appropriate jewel."
Bro. Nelson D. Morse moved to amend the by-laws, by striking out
the word "Jacksonville" and inserting the word " Peoria," which was
laid over one year.
Bro. Warren offered a resolution (which was adopted,) providing for
the appointment, on the first day of each session, of a Committee on
Lodges U. D.
The Committee on Returns and Work made an additional report, as
follows:
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 281
"The Committee on Returns and Work mad on report, accompanied with two
resolutions, which on motion were adopted, as follows,
" The Committee on Returns and Work of Lodges beg leave to further report,
that they have examined the returns of Bodley Lodge No. 1, and rind that in
several instances several Lodges initiated candidates where their petitions had
not been twenty days; otherwise they find returns of said Lodge correct, with
the exception of the want of an account current.
"They have examined the work of Pekin Lodge, U. D., and find it correct
and dues paid ; no by-laws presented to your committee ; said Lodge praying a
charter.
"Resolved, That your committee recommend that the M. W. Grand Master be
authorized to grant said Pekin Lodge a charter, whenever said Lodge shall have
for the same, and send into the M. W. G. Master, a copy of their by-laws, if said
by-laws are correct.
"They further report that no returns have been made from the following
Lodges : Nos. 2, 6, 10, 13, 14, 16, 21, 22, and 23; Lodges U. D., Monmouth, Farm-
ington, Mt. Vernon, and Kaskaskia.
" In closing this Deport, your committee would say that from the returns and
papers presented from different Lodges, they find them in a prosperous condi-
tion— yet your committee are of the opinion that some Lodges work-too rapidly,
inasmuch as they initiate a candidate at a regular communication; then the
Lodge adjourns over for a day or two, then raises the same candidate.
" Your committee would recommend the following resolution :
"Retolved, That this Grand Lodge of Illinois would recommend to the Lodge*
under their jurisdictions to do all their business in a Lodge of Master Masons, ex-
cept conferring the first and second degrees. They would further recommend
that all balloting for candidates for initiation be ta'ken at a regular communica-
tion, and that no ballot for a candidate for initiation be taken at an adjourned
Lodge, unless it be in case of emergency, which should be so stated.
"CARDING JACKSON,
PETER SWEAT,
CHARLES HOWARD."
Bro. D. Allen, (S. G. W.) of Alton, moved to amend the by-laws by
striking out the word "Jacksonville" and inserting "the City of Alton"
— which was laid over one year.
Communications from the Grand Lodges of Virginia, Mississippi, and
Pennsylvania were presented by the Grand Secretary, and referred to
the Committee on Foreign Correspondence. The Grand Secretary waa
directed to call upon Milwaukee Lodge for its returns and duef.
On motion of Bro. Goforth, of Belleville, the following was adopted:
"Resolved, That the Committee on Finance and Accounts, in connection with
the Grand Secretary, be required to make, a general report of the receipts nnd
expenditures of this Grand Lodge since, its formation, stating the amount re-
ceived for dispensation*, charters, and dues, separately and distinctly, and
from whom received ; also the amount expended, and for what purpose."
The Grand Lodge was then called from labor until 2 o'clock, at which
time it was again called on. The grand officers were then installed.
Bro. Coffmau moved that a delegate be appointed to attend the next
communication of the Grand Lodge of Missouri, which was lost. The
dues of Monroe Lodge were remitted.
232 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
On motion of Bro. Sweat, of Peoria, a vote of thanks was tendered to
Bro. Dunlap, P. G. M., " for the able, dignified, and courteous manner "
in which he had discharged his duties as Grand Master.
The Committeeon Returns and Work reported adversely to the grant-
ing of the petition contained in certain resolutions of Warsaw Lodge
^o. 21. This resolution of Warsaw Lodge does not appear in the pro-
ceedings, neither is there any mention of the same in the records of War-
saw Lodge — consequently we are unable to present them.
The oration of Bro. Cooley was ordered to be printed with the pro-
ceedings, and two hundred copies additional for distribution. The
Grand Master was authorized to grant charters during vacation, to such
Lodges under dispensation as in his opinion were entitled to the same.
On motion of Bro. Lusk, the following was adopted :
"Resolved, By the Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois, that "the rules for the
organization and establishing a Grand Convention of Ancient, Free, and Ac-
cepted Masons, as passed by the convention of Masons, at the meeting in May,
in the year 1843, in the city of Baltimore, composed of eight sections, as the
same are set forth in the printed proceedings thereof, be and the same are
hereby adopted by this Grand Lodge."
The Grand Lodge was then called off until 7 o'clock P. M., at which
time it again assembled and was called to labor.
The following was adopted :
"WHEREAS, The M. W. Grand Lodge of Illinois, at their last communication,
thought proper to withdraw from Nauvoo, Helm, and Nye Lodges, the dispensa-
tions which had been granted them, for gross unmasonic conduct ; and whereat
the M. W. Grand Master did during vacation send a .special messenger to
Nauvoo, and demand the dispensation aforesaid, which command was treated
with contempt, and not only a positive refusal given by said Lodge, but a deter-
mination expressed to continue their work :
"Now Resolved, By this Grand Lodge, that all fellowship with said Lodges, and
members thereof, be withdrawn, and the associations of Masons working these
Lodges are hereby declared clandestine, and all the members hailing therefrom
suspended from all the privileges of Masonry within the jurisdiction of this
Grand Lodge, and that our sister Grand Lodges be requested to deny them the
same privileges.
"Resolved, That the Grand Secretary be directed to address a circular on the
subject to all the Grand Lodges in correspondence with this Grand Lodge, and
request the same to be published in all Masonic Periodicals."
On motion of Bro. Howard, the work as reported by Bro. Lusk was
adopted.
The Committee on Foreign Correspondence reported as follows :
"The Committee on Foreign Correspondence. beg leave respectfully to report,
that they have examined the Journals of Proceedings from the following Grand
Lodges, viz. : New York, Maine, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Hampshire,
Ohio, Alabama, South Carolina. Pennsylvania, Indiana, Kentucky, Rhode Island,
Virginia, Georgia, Missouri, Florida, Connecticut, Iowa, Wisconsin, North Caro-
lina, Massachusetts, Louisiana, and Mississippi. In all of which they find much
of interest and instruction to the Masonic family — much which our limited
time alone prevents us from noticing and bringing before your body for action,
or at least encouragement, evidencing as they all do, that the sunshine of peace
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. :>:?:]
and prosperity is shedding its benign influence around our time-honored insti-
tution— that the cloud of ignorance and prejudice which has for a time lowered
over us, is passing away, and that Masonry, having out-lived the slander and
detraction of ignorance, is now moving hand in hand with the intelligence of
the age, and with the worthy and the good of every clime has an advocate and
n friend.
" Your committee unfeignedly regret that time will not allow them to do jus-
tice to the matters contained in the journals before them; and that the object
and the end of their appointment is thereby in a ;-zreat measure lost to the Fra-
ternity; believing that annual statement of the progress, history, prospect and
condition of the several Grand Lodges throughout the world, together with
their decisions upon questions of importance to the Craft, would do much to call
forth that emulation of "who can best work and who can best agree." The
principles of our Order are the same. The interests of our Order are identical,
hence, whatever of good or evil pertains to one, call forth the sympathy of all.
'•Your committee beg leave to submit a summary of such matters, as they
think most worthy of your consideration.
"And first, from that text-book of Masonry, the transactions of the Grand
Lodge of New York, we beg leave to extract the following notice of her Euro-
pean correspondence:
"The Committee on Foreign Correspondence of the Grand Lodge of Maine,
have prepared and published an eloquent address on the institution and princi-
ples inculcated by Masonry, which every member of our Ortjjer might read with
advantage.
"And now we come to notice the most important and interesting part of our
duty, which is a review of the documents received from Switzerland. To do
justice to this part of our report, we should have to transcribe those interesting
documents entire. They are rich in Masonic lore, and, indeed, are the embodi-
ment of every thing that is great and good, and valuable in our venerable and
illustrious Order.
" We are indebted to Bro. Constantine Sargint, for an elegant translation of
these valuable documents from the French, and for the loan of his translation,
which was made by him for the Lodge of Strict Observance, of which he is a
member.
"These documents comprise :
"1st. The general statutes and regulations of the National Grand Lodge of
Switzerland.
" 2d. Instructions and directions for the use of the Lodge?.
"3d. Installation of the National Grand Lodge.
"4th. Extracts from the annual report of the Grand Master.
•• 5th. State and condition of Masonry in the years 5840 and 5841.
" 6th. Report of the National Grand Master of Switzerland for the year 5842.
" We would respectfully recommend that all these documents be published
for the use of the American Fraternity, and, instead of being distributed gratu-
itously, sold at a moderate price, by the authority and under the direction of
this Grand Body, which would relieve it of any expense, while it would contrib-
ute to the diffusion of a vast amount of Masonic light and knowledge.
"We now proceed to give a few extracts from these papers. In the circular
of the National Grand Master, he thus speaks:
L'31 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"'Masonry relies in the quality and not in the quantity of the brotherhood,
and its firmest support is to be found in the happy choice of its initiates, and
not in the frequency of its institutions.' In another place he says, 'the evil
lays in the unfortunate facility of initiations. If faithful to the principles of
Freemasonry, we would exact from candidates a certain degiee of education, easi-
ness of circumstances, honor, morals, etc. There would be no Mason unworthy
of our benevolence, as no one would make of this title an object of speculation.'
And in another place : 'Avoid above all the fatal error which makes the strength
of a Lodge consist in the number of its members. Every virtuous man is our
brother, but unfortunately every brother is not a true Mason. Should there be
found among you seven brothers animated by the same zeal for the perfection
of humanity, and who should actively work, be assured that such alliance would
not the less be cherished by the entire Fraternity as just and perfect, and you
would the more surely find in it the happiness of an intimate union.'
" The following is an extract from the report of the Grand Council of Admin-
istration, dated 10th of June, 5837.
" ' We will call to the recollection of the Lodges that they are formally engaged
to perform the obligations presented by the general rules of the Grand Lodge,
and which impose upon them the duty (so easily fulfilled) of sending annually
to the National Grand Master a report of the work of the year past, together
with a register of their members. We fervently solicit them to pay attention to
the troubles to which those Lodges expose themselves which remain inactive
for twelve months, or who allow that term to pass without sending either reports
or register; and we should be excessively pained, if either the one or the
other cause should compel us to apply the penalties of the General Statutes as
provided in such cases. If the reports and registers arenot regularly forwarded
every year, gaps would unavoidably result in the archives of the Grand Lodge,
which might become very hurtful should there be at any time a necessity of
consulting them.'
"In another place: 'Orations,' delivered in Lodges, are recommended, 'as a
good school for every brother, who, in the profane world is called upon to speaK
in public, or to enlighten his fellow-citizens. We do not pay sufficient attention
to the fact, that the Masonic virtues exercise a marked influence in the profane
world.'
" In another place : ' To act in accordance with the meaning of the Institution,
it is indispensably requisite that you should be Masons, and nothing but Masons,
You should endeavor to get rid of all prejudices and of all preferences of per-
sons, place and circumstances. It is precisely one of the bad features of the
character of our times, that we do not appreciate the intrinsic value of a man,
but by his political coloring, a reproach deserved by all parties without distinc-
tion. If the Lodges and their members engage in these fatal views, they trans-
form themselves into parties; they become clubs, arenas of bitter and irritating
discussions, and ruin themselves and our association ; as in political and reli-
gious matters, men do not listen to reason. Thus the principal Masonic statutes
which forbid us to speak of these matters, either in the Lodge or in committee,
are as ancient as they nre wise ; we, therefore, forcibly insist that they be strictly
observed, because, as it is said with so much justice in one of the articles of gene-
ral duties, it is by these means only that Freemasonry becomes a union for all
men, draws together and binds with a faithful friendship, persons who without
them would continually remain apart.'
"At a session of the National Grand Lodge of the 24th of June, 5842, Bro.
Mieville, Venerable of the Lodge of Lausanne, on the occasion of the installa-
tion of officers, addressed the assembly — from which we make a few extracts .-
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 23'>
• We are all employed in the raising of a Temple to Solomon! Every day we
bear to it a stone ; but our efforts not being sufficiently united, and from their
deplorable isolations, were hurtful in their effects. Let us congratulate our-
*elve», R. W. brethren, that we now belong to a national Institution, which by
Masonic ties will bind still more closely our social ones, and which offers to us
in all the members of the alliance, friends and brothers, all of us zealous to dis-
charge the double debt imposed upon us by the touching voice of our country,
and the sacred appeal of Masonry.
" ' A good Mason is always a good citizen, a just magistrate, a good son, and a
faithful husband.' *
* * 'We establish well organized societies. Nay more, societies which bear
an ardent love for their country, a respect for religion, obedience to the laws
which govern us, and an unextinguishable love for good order and virtue.'
"'When modern Masonry made its appearance with its systems, its innova-
tions and its abuses, it necessarily opposed the natural tendency of Masonry and
introduced into it hurtful changes.'
" ' Far be from us, all subjection of conscience, and all hierarchial despotism ;
they are both in contradiction to true Masonry. An association of enlightened
men and free from prejudices, demands in this age, with great outcry, for a con-
cordance of sentiments and action. But a society can never prosper if she acts
arbitrarily or in the absence of laws. A legislative and executive force had to be
formed as a basis of our alliance ; every one should submit to it, as they have all
freely voted for its adoption.'
" 'The most ancient Masonic documents, the most remote traditions, and the
reiterated declarations of the Grand Lodge of England (which is acknowledged
by all Orients as the mother Lodge of the ancient Fraternity of Free and Accept-
ed Masons) prove that ancient and true Free Masonry consists in the three de-
grees of St. John.
"'All Lodges, even those of modern Masonry, agree to it, by giving to them-
selves the name of St. John, but above all by celebrating the festival of St. John
the Baptist, the patron of the Ancient Fraternity.
"' Nevertheless, it is requisite and prudent not to precipitate that which may
be an affair of belief or even of opinion, and the adage of our Grand Mother
Lodge leaves us to hope that Masonry will, little by little, reunite that which is
divided by opinion and prejudices.'
" Next follows, ' The general duties of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons, and
Masonic regulations,' which is a complete body of Ethics ; and being a com-
pound of beauties from beginning to end, in order to do justice to any part, we
should have transcribed the whole. We are reluctantly compelled to content
ourselves with this bare notice of it, trusting that the whole of these invaluable
documents will speedily be published, and thus afford the Craft an opportunity
of feasting upon their delightful contents.
"The following extracts are from the report of the Grand Master of the National
Grand Lodge, in the year 5840 : ' The prosperity of all associations, and more
especially a Masonic one, essentially depends on the matter in which it is com-
posed. Unfortunately, (and experience proves it every day) we see that in all
countries there are Lodges which are but just established, and frequently not
without great effort, where we find arising among them frightful dissensions,
which soon lead to suspension of work, and even to a dissolution of the Lodge
itself, and if this result docs not always happen, it is because sometimes there
are found a clique of members who are bound together merely by interested
motives, who endeavor by means of numerous initiations to fill the vacuum which
a bad administration had produced in the funds of their Lodges. Deplorable
examples might be adduced in support of these considerations.'
" ' It is something in this world not to make ourselves remarkable by our vices,
but that we may become true Masons we should render ourselves dis'tinguished
by our real virtues.'
236 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
'"The ritual requires an interval of thirty days between the time of proposing
a candidate and his initiation, during which time, 'his name must remain affixed
to the door of the Lodge in order that the members may have a knowledge of
the same, and that they may oppose him if necessary, and" at all events, that they
may make inquiries on the candidate, especially if it is for initiation or aggre-
gation. In departing from this wise prescription, the Lodges deprive themselves
of the means of information in regard to the candidates, and expose themselves
to the danger of initiating or affiliating in a careless manner, of which they may
afterwards have reason to repent.' There is another regulation of the ritual
which we see sometimes eluded. It is that which requires an interval of one
year between the 1st and 2d degrees, and the same between the 2d and 3d. It
has this bad effect, that notwithstanding the assertion to the contrary, it is ab-
solutely impossible for a brother, let his capacity or assiduity be what it may. to
acquire in a shorter space, the knowledge of his degree, even in regard to its
forms and customs. To neglect this regulation, and advance at the expiration
of a few months, nay, sometimes a few days, a newly initiated member to the
Master's Degree, is an intolerable abuse, and it has likewise this fault also, that
it strips all the merit from that degree, which is the most sublime one, and ought
never to be attained, but as a reward of zeal, aptness and perseverance.'
"The next document that we come to, is on the 'state and condition of Mason-
ry in the years 5840 and 5841, extracted from the annual report of the Giand
Council of Administration of the National Grand Lodge of Switzerland for 1841.'
" In this paper are notices of Grand Orients beyond the Sea, embracing Africa,
America, Great Britain, with the continental Lodges of Belgium, Bavaria, Den-
mark, and Holstein, France, Frankfort on the Main, Hamburg, Hanover, Holland
Prussia, Saxony and Sweden. At the close of this summary it is remarked, that,
' In Austria, Russia, Italy, Spain, and Portugal, Masonry was heretofore tolerated ;
it is at present prohibited. This result may be attributed in a great measure to
the influence of bigotry, but it may also be to the circumstance, that they abused
the signs of Masonry. That under cloak of this institution, they organized
secret societies with political ends in view, and, in opposition to their solemn
obligations, there were some Masons who assisted in it.'
" We have had occasion before, to remark on the illiberal conduct observed
towards the Jews in some of the German Lodges, and extract the following ac-
count of a transaction which took place in the Lodge de St. George in Pin Ver-
doyant, at Hamburg:
'"On balloting for an Israelite brother in this Lodge, the ballot box showed in
a vote of 8(5, twenty negative ballots. From this there resulted a difficulty which
was got over in a manner answering to the spirit of Masonic toleration; and
which did honor to the Lodge. In short, after having maturely examined
motives which had actuated the rejection, and which consisted only in the dif-
ference of religious belief, she declared them inadmissable, and rested on the
following reasons : ''Fora long time past, the Grand Orients of England, France,
Holland, and North America, have admitted Israelites into the bosom of their
Lodges. To refuse a Mason merely because he is not a Christian, would be con-
trary to the ancient statutes of the Fraternity. According to the most ancient
documents of Free Masonry, regarding the initiation of a profane, or the aggre-
gation of a brother, they simply require, that he should be no Atheist, and that
he should profess the religion upon which oilmen agree ;" in other words, that ho
should be a good and faithful citizen, and a man of honor and probity.'
"The following notice is taken of the United States :
"'The Grand Lodge of the State of New York is in a flourishing condition.
She sends representatives to several Grand Orients.
'"The emigration to that country of so many Europeans, has given rise to a
diversity of rites, hurtful to the simplicity of the ancient and respectable fra-
ternity. To remedy the confusion arising from it, the Grand Lodge of Alabama
deemed it necessary to invite all the Grand Lodges of the Union to meet in con-
vention at Washington, in March, 1842, in order to deliberate on a uniform ritual
to be introduced in all the Lodges of the United States.
"'This convention will present an opportunity for the establishment of a
General Grand Lodge for the vast Empire of the United States.
HISTORY OP MASONRY IX I LLIXOIS. 237
'• • From information received of the Lodge." in North America, we learn that
many of them have so changed and augmented the signs of recognition, pass-
words and grips, that a foreign brother, wishing to visit those Lodges, can with
great difficulty gain access to them. Simple certificates are no longer sufficient.
In Germany, persons wishing to visit the United States are recommended to
furnish themselves with special letters of recommendation to the Grand Lodge
of New York.'
" In the report of the National Grand Master of Switzerland, for the year 5842,
in sneaking of the United Grand Lodge of England, and in which is quoted the
report from Hamburg, we have the opinion of the late lamented and most illus-
trious Grand Master of England, the Duke of Sussex, in relation to recent move-
ments as to our Israelitish brethren, brought in incidentally with other matters,
and we transcribe the whole, as no part can be well severed from the other:
'• ' If the Grand Lodge of England (says the report, from Hamburg) attracts the
special attention of the Masonic world, it is very natural, as we look upon her as
the mother Lodge of Masonry, and more particularly as she has extended her
relations and counts affiliated Lodges in the most distant parts of the globe.
•" The Grand Lodge has revised and published in 1841, her general statutes;
she has increased her establishments of benevolence by founding a school for
both sexes, and opened, under the direction of the. illustrious brother, the Duke
of Sussex, an asylum fur poor, aged, and infirm Free Masons.
'•' In the session of the 2d of March 1842, R. H. Augustus Frederick, Duke of
Sussex, was unanimously re-elected to the duties of Grand Master. The same
year the Grand Master, aided by his Grand Dignitaries, did, according to ancient
Masonic custom, lay at Sunderland the foundation of a building intended for
scientific purposes, under the name of "Atheneum."
'" Apropos to the admission into our alliance of men professing the religion of
Moses, this Grand Master has expressed himself in the following terms : "Among
Free Masons, all differences of opinion in political matters or religious belief ap-
pears to me a matter of no importance, of whatever side, party, climate, or affinity
they may be. These Masonic principles are those of all my life, and I can truly *
say that I have grown old in the exercise of the Royal Art of Free Masonry.
They are my glory. They have procured me true relief in my troubles, a con-
solation in my afflictions, and when I turn my thoughts upon them, I feel grow-
ing young again by their sweet influence."
•' • In a fraternal audience lately given by H. R. H. to a brother at Berlin, and
in the course of a long conversation, he expressed himself in the following
terms; "I recollect still with pleasure, the time (1800) when I was Junior and
Senior Warden and afterwards Master of the Lodge, the Triumph of Truth" (proba-
bly at Berlin). "Yes, my friend," added he, "Masonry is a universal good, which
embraces and unites together men of every belief. Although this principle is
not universally recognized, the time will come, and that soon, when it will be.
We are marching towards this noble end, and our united efforts should be em-
ployed to arrive at it as speedily as possible. I am altogether in favor of the eman-
cipation of the Israelites— and it is to be regretted that a number of Lodges in
Germany are closed against them. Masonry should never close her portals to
any enlightened man, let his religion be what it may, if he has been thought
worthy of being admitted into the alliance. Although some contend that Mason-
ry is a Christian institution, and that some of her details do not accord with
other creeds, yet religion teaches us to love our neighbor, and that men are
equal in the eyes of the Almighty. The Creator embraces all his creatures with
the same love. Let the form in which others serve and adore God be what it
may ; let them swear on the Al Koran or on the Bible, the thought is always
fixed on God; — and it is a weakness on our part to believe ourselves better than
others. My zeal towards Masonry will never slacken. I belong to the Fraternity
to the. last breath of my life ; anil I will dedicate to her, with pleasure, all my
faculties."
" 'This excellent Mason is no more. On the 21st of April last he was called to
that Celestial Lodge, where he will receive the recompense of his Masonic virtues
ami his numberless services. We also, dear brethren, deplore this painful loss;
for it was from his hands that we received the constitutional patent of the
English provincial Grand Mastership for Switzerland, it was to his encourage-
ment that we owe our constitution as an independent Grand Lodge ; it was him
in whom we were always sure to find under all circumstances a powerful and de-
v.itod protector. May yon, dear brethren, as well as ourselves, guard in your
238 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
hearts the memory of the illustrious defunct, and his Masonic principles such
HS we have communicated them to you, as a species of testament from him '
"'The last article which we shall notice in these interesting papers, is that in
relation to our own Grand Lodge. It commences with this caption :'
" 'GRAND LODGE OF NEW YORK, NORTH AMERICA. — This Grand Lodge has re-elected
as -her Grand Master the It. W. Bro. General Morgan Lewis. This Grand Lodge
owes the distinguished and indefatigable activity of her Grand Secretary. R. W.
Bro. James Herring, several new relations with the Grand Orients of Europe.
Our National -Grand Lodge will place herself in a more intimate fraternal corres-
pondence with her, by means of a reciprocal system of representation.
"'The Masonic Congress convoked at Washington by the Grand Lodge of New
York, met on the 7th of March, 1842. There were present delegates from the
Grand Lodges, viz.: Rhode Island. Virginia, New Hampshire, Massachusetts,
New York, Maryland, Connecticut, District of Columbia, South Carolina, Alabama.
'"They nominated two committees — one for & convention on the direction of
the work of the three degrees for all the States in the Union, the other for the
establishment of a regulating code (constitution of Lodges); but the Grand Lodges
of the West not being represented, and that of Alabama not producing sufficient
vouchers, they agreed to the proposition of nominating by each Grand Lodge
•one or more brethren, with the title of Grand Lecturers, "who sho'uld adopt a
project on the mode of instruction, and who should meet at least once in three
years, for the purpose of comparing the work and rectifying anything which
might require alteration. The General Congress has unanimously adopted this
measure.'
"We have now gone through with what we consider to be among the most im-
portant of these highly interesting documents, and have not made an extract
from or allusion to them which we did not consider of momentous import to the
Fraternity. These excellent papers remind your committee that it is a part of
their duty earnestly but respectfully to impress on this Grand Lodge the im-
portance of regulating the system of initiating and raising candidates to the
mysteries of our Order. Many causes might be assigned for the low estimate in
which we are often held by the profane, and the cold and chilling apathy which
often marks the footsteps of the Masonic brother; but to nothing does she owe
her misfortunes more than that of the ignorance of her members as to the true
knowledge of the art.
" We, as a body, appear to be content with the word, only, of her law— the spirit
of her institutions we know but little of. We are content with the knowledge of
a few of her signs and symbols, the attainment of which invite us to repose.
Wearied with our great zeal and labor in her luxuriant fields, we relax from the
operative part, and with a superficial knowledge thus obtained, we commence
the speculative, and ultimately receive that portion for our reward which is
meted out to those only who never turn up but the first strata of the soil. Then
follows suddenly in its train dissention and want of brotherly love.
"We have also before us extracts from the proceedings of the Grand Lodge of
Saxony, from the 8th of April, 1812, to the 15th of June, 1843, the whole of which
ought to be spread before the Fraternity on this side of the Atlantic ; but in what
way to do it, your committee are at a loss, as the mass of these papers contain
matter which, in our opinion, are not proper to be committed to paper. Things
are unfolded in these documents which strike us with surprise. It appears that
the G. H. S. of the third degree is proposed, by the Grand Lodge of Hamburg,
to be given to a candidate at his initiation in the first; and the Grand Master of
Saxony recommends the adoption of the same course, and states that it is already
done by some Grand Lodges. Subsequent, to-wit, on the 22d of March, 1843, the
Grand Lodge of Hamburg actu?lly adopted this innovation. This grave question
was at that time again brought up in the Grand Lodge of Saxony, but it does not
appear whether it was finally settled or not.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 239
" On the 8th of April, 1842, a reciprocal representation and correspondence with
this Grand Lodge was agreed upon;but'the proposition of a representation from
the Grand Lodge of Texas was adjourned, having heard that a change was to
take place soon in the southern part of America in the Masonic line.'
"On the 18th January, 1843, Bro. Mensch, member of the United Lodges Three
Schwerten and Astrea zum Graenendem Raute, in Dresden, who was formerly a
resident of the city of New York, and a member of Albion Lodge No. 107, of said
city, was proposed as representative of the Grand Lodge of New York; also the
Breth. Von Lindt and Schwarze, both members of the Lodge Zum Golden Apfel,
in Dresden.
"The Grand Lodge of Hamburg, on the 30th of July, 1840, concluded that in
future the G. H. S. shall be communicated in the first degree.
"An anecdote is related of a soldier having saved his life at the battle of
Wagram, in 1812, by being possessed of this sign. It was permitted to be com-
municated to an A. E. in private, but in open Lodge, in case the Worshipful
Master, under certain circumstances, thought proper to do so. The Bro. Grand
Orator, in stating these matters, observed, "that the three Grand Lodges in
Berlin, and the Grand Eclectic Lodge in Frankfort on the Main, admitted a very
similar proceeding, and he wished it might be uniformly adopted. Whereupon,
the Worshipful Breth. Starke, Lucius, and the R. W. Dep. Grand Master, ascer-
tained that a similar manner of proceeding in this matter Is already used by
some of the subordinate Lodges in Saxony.
" The R. W. Grand Master brought this subject before the representatives of the
Lodges in order to obtain their instructions and opinions thereon.
" The letter to the R. W. Grand Lodge in New York, North America, and the
R. W. the Grand Lodge of the Republic of Texas, had been read and adopted.
They were to be translated into English before being directed to their destina-
tion.
"The R. W. Bro. Zacharius informed the Grand Lodge of the appearance of
an adventurer by the name of Sivery. Also, that a certain brother has false
certificates in his possession.
"Amas de Swiry (or Si wry), as he declares, is a painter and Grecian Colonel,
born in Athens, and educated in Alexandria. He was arrested on the llth of
April, 1844, at Gernsback, for bad behavior, drunkenness, and vagrancy. He
produced a French passport dated d'Espinal, 6th June, 1841, and made out the
following story of his life:
'"I served under Napoleon in the army as Mameluke, and afterwards with the
Pasha Soliman, of Egypt, as Colonel. I don't know, myself, to what religion I
belong; I speak all languages. I come from France, Italy, and Switzerland, and
I intend to go to Hungary. I can not remember that I said yesterday evening,
the German Princes should all tremble if my plan should succeed, because I was
drunk. I got once a heavy blow on my head, and if I drink some wine, I am
ever troubled in my mind, and don't know what I say.'
"Among his papers were found some Masonic documents, which left no doubt
that he was recommended for charity by Freemasons in Strasburg and Baden,
and a certificate with the signature of Soliman Pascha. He was obliged to leave
the territory of Baden and Wirtemburg, and afterwards he was arrested again
in Elberfield and Cologne.
"This information led to the supposition that he wasn't at all the man that
he pretended to be, but rather it is probable that he was formerly a Mason by
profession, and the name seems to be Emerick Wenzel, from Landenburg, iu
ii-10 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
the Grand Duchy of Baden, who deserted the military service of Ins country,
and then became a vagrant in Italy, Spain, Egypt, and Greece, and afterwards
returning to Germany, that he adopted the name of Count Nicholas Leonidas,
and styled himself a Captain in the service of the King of Greece. He spied out
the credulity of people of rank and distinction, and embraced this opportunity
to his profit; but particularly in Lodges of Freemasons, he found every where
an easy admission, because he unfortunately understands too well how to give
the evidence required for that purpose.
"The description communicated to us is as follows: Age 4ii years, black hair,
upon the crown of his head somewhat thin; particular marks, pitted with the
small-pox, and a perceptible cicatrice on the head. He speaks very fluently
German and French ; his deportment is vulgar, and somewhat affected.
"The proceedings of the 15th of June, 1843, contain extracts from the consti-
tution of the Grand Lodge of Hanover, which we insert, as some useful hints
may be taken from them :
"'No brother can be elected an officer of a Lodge until he has been three years
a ^faster Mason. >
"'A Fellow has to work at least one year in that degree before he can b»
admitted to the 3d degree.
"'An Apprentice has to remain at least two years in that degree.
" 'Any Lodge that does not work for three years forfeits its charter. To revive
the Lodge, she is obliged to take a new charter. Any dormant Lodge shall
deposit all its documents, charter, minutes, etc., with the Grand Lodge.
"'A candidate who is black-balled three times, can never be proposed again.
"'In balloting for a candidate for initiation, every visiting brother shall have a
right to vote, because the candidate becomes a member of the Craft in general.
"'No Mason initiated in a clandestine Lodge can be admitted ; but each Free-
mason in good standing, of any nation and profession of faith, shall be admitted.
However, every Lodge may, in individual cases, proceed according to its by-laws.'
"The Grand Lodge of Saxony elected three Censors, whose duty it is to watch
over every Masonic work intended for publication by any brother of a subor-
dinate Lodge.
"Since closing this report, and only on the day previous to our present session,
we have received voluminous documents from Hamburg and Holland, the latter
of which it will not be in our power to notice at all, as they are now in the hands
of the translator, with the exception of two dispatches from the Low Countries,
one directed to this Grand Lodge as a body, and the other to our Grand Secretary.
"The former we can but glance at, and extract such matters as more immedi-
ately concerns us.
"At the quarterly communication of January 31st, 1840, a proposition was made
to establish a society in connection with the mercantile branch of the Ship-
brokers' Union, for the assistance of those needy brothers about to embark for
America, and a very lengthy report was drawn up. A counter report was drawn
up, stating some political difficulties, and there the matter appears to rest.
"A candidate must be twenty years and five months old before he can be in-
itiated.
"There is an Order in France called the Ordrede Temps, who hold no com-
7iiunion either with the Grand Orient or the Supreme Council, and whose rites
are nearly similar to the Knights Templar of Germany, Sweden, England, and
America, which in 1804 was constituted into a Lodge by the Grand Orient, by the
title La Loge et Chnpitre des Chevaliers dc la Crnis.
": It is stated in the quarterly communication of April 24th, 1841, among the
reports of other Grand Lodtres. that the annual expenses of the Grand Lodge of
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 241
England was about £3000 sterling; that the Grand Secretary receives a pension
of £80 sterling.
"St. John's Day, June 24, 1841, a report was presented to the Grand Lodge of
Hamburg, of the state of the Fraternity over the whole globe. At the same time,
Bro. Phemoller was introduced as the representative of the Grand Lodge of New
York, with a warm address from the Grand Master, which was responded to by
one of equal warmth. The M. W. Lodge was then closed, and an E. A. opened,
when brethren not members of the Grand Lodge were admitted. Refreshments
were served up, after which a cantata was sung, composed by Bro. Peasy, a
poetical address was then delivered by the Grand Orator, Mr. Baetzel, and at G
o'clock a procession was formed, accompanied by music, to the banqueting hall,
which was splendidly ornamented for the occasion.
" Regular quarterly session of August 17th, 1841. The transactions of the Grand
Lodge of New York was received of its annual communications of 1839 and 1840,
and to March, 1841, with a great variety of interesting matter.
"At the regular quarterly session, held November 13th, 1841, a decision was
given against the project of establishing a society for the protection of emigrants
into foreign countries.
"At an emergent meeting, held December 4th, 1841, it was stated that the
Supreme Council of France had, in 1834, entered into a confederacy with the
Supreme Council of New York.
"Regular session of September 4th, 1842, contains the annual proceedings,,
which should have taken place on St. John's Day, and was postponed on account
of the great fire. The day was kept as a day of thanksgiving and prayer, for
having been preserved from that awful conflagration.
" We now come to notice the communication from the National Grand Master
of Holland to this Grand Lodge, and also that of the R. W. F. A. Van Rappard,
the Grand Secretary of that Grand Lodge, to the R. W. Bro. Herring, our Grand
Secretary, in both of which a direct and permanent correspondence between the
two grand bodies is urged and solicited.
"These documents are accompanied by —
" 1st. A copy of the code of laws of that Grand Orient.
"2d. A copy of all the annual reports.
"3d. The Rules of Order for the grand officers, etc.
"4th. The list of Lodges which work under that jurisdiction.
" Having already stated that these documents are now in the hands of a trans-
lator, and that they have just come to hand, we shall defer any further notice of
them until our next quarterly communication.
"The Grand Lodge of Maryland approves of the system of lectures adopted
and agreed upon by the convention of Masons at Baltimore, in May, 1843, and
has directed that the same be adopted by all the Lodges under her jurisdiction.
She refuses her assent to the sending of a delegate to Europe. She has for-
bidden the subordinate Lodges under her jurisdiction to confer the degree of
Past Master upon any one who has not been duly elected to preside in the chair
(a practice we did not suppose had ever obtained under the jurisdiction of any
Grand Lodge). She is also in favor of the establishment of a grand Masonic
< ''invention, to meet triennially, possessing certain specified powers.
"The Grand Lodge of Indiana is now in a flourishing condition. The subor-
dinate Lodges are all doing well, and the Fraternity is prosperous. She has
been somewhat embarrassed in consequence of the subordinate Lodges taking
r.otes of hand in payment for degrees and dues. This is a practice which can
—16
242 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
not meet with too much condemnation; one which should never be indulged
in; much better forgive the debt than settle it by note. The Grand Master in
his address recommends that ' to improve the leisure hours that frequently
occur in a lodge-room, lectures on the several degrees of Masonry, or on some
useful branch of science, can not be too strongly recommended.' With the
refinement of the age in which we live, and the great advancement of the arts,
it must be conceded that these advantages are only enjoyed by the few, whilst
the many remain untaught.
"'In an association like ours, embracing every class of good citizens, it would
seem 110 difficult matter, with a small amount of funds, to collect a large amount
of that which would be useful to all — specimens in botany, geology, mineralogy,
to which may be added, by some ingenious mechanic, directed by scientific
men, apparatus in hydraulics, mechanics, and specimens in architecture.
These, with weekly lectures during the long winter evenings on those subjects,
with chemistry as connected with the arts and agriculture, it seems to me would
do more in one year to elevate the Masonic standing and cultivate the human
^nind, than has been achieved by the Craft in the last forty years. The acquisi-
tion of knowledge by abstract instruction is hardly obtained by the many, hence
the reason why but few are learned, and that villages are better informed than
those living in the country. In some of the eastern Lodges in this State,
lectures within the last year have been delivered with highly beneficial results.'
This Lodge also recommends a Manual Labor School, for the benefit of the
orphans of Masons. She does not approve the system of Grand Lodge certifi-
cates".
"The Grand Lodge of Alabama appears to be in an improving and flourishing
state. She recommends highly the policy of appointing representatives to the
different Grand Lodges — a policy which we beg leave to recommend to the
early attention of this Grand Lodge. She also reprobates the practice of confer-
ring degrees until the fees are paid, as one fraught with danger to the Masonic
Institution.
"The Grand Master of Maine speaks highly of 'a re-print of Masonic papers,"
originally printed at Madras, in the East Indies, which they say they have
•examined with much interest, and recommend it as being worthy the careful
perusal of all Masons who are in pursuit of more light. This report on foreign
correspondence, next to that of New York, we consider the best and most worthy
Attention of any we have had the pleasure of examining. From the able and
•eloquent exposition of the Masonic Institution and principles of our Order, we
.are satisfied that it was prepared by a committee who perfectly understand the
work, and are fully able to lay down designs upon the trestle-board for the in-
struction of their brethren. They notice circulars received from Breth. Chas. W.
Moore and John Dove, in relation to the trestle-board, which letters have also
been read to this Grand Lodge.
"The Grand Lodge of New Hampshire approves of the plan of a triennial
convention, and also of the lectures and work adopted by the Masonic Conven-
tion at Baltimore.
"The Grand Lodge of Virginia dissents from the work published by Bro.
Moore, of Massachusetts, and declares by resolution that it is not a true expo-
sition of the work as adopted by the Masonic Convention at Baltimore.
"We regret exceedingly the difficulty which has arisen between Beth. Moore
and Dove — it has already been productive of much feeling, and will ultimately
work much injury to the Masonic Institution, and your committee recommend
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 213
that it is unadvisable at this time for the Grand Lodge of Illinois to take any other
part in the controversy than to sincerely express their regrets that in the
Masonic family such difficulties should arise.
"The Grand Lodge of Georgia is in a highly flourishing condition. The
Fraternity generally throughout her jurisdiction are increasing in numbers and
respectability. She speaks thus of the representative system: 'We can not
too highly approve of the representative system now existing to some extent
with the various Grand Lodges throughout the world, and urgently recommend
that arrangements be forthwith made to insure the representation of this Grand
Lodge at as many other Grand Lodges as possible.'
" The Grand Lodge of Arkansas also highly approves of the representative
system, and of the proposed triennial convention system.
"The Grand Lodge of New Hampshire is also in a flourishing condition The
several reports of her District Deputy Grand Masters are full of interest, and
manifest much attachment to the interest of Masonry. In relation to the
trestle-board, they unanimously say by resolution: 'That the Masonic trestle-
board, by R. W. Breth. Chas. W. Moore and S. W. B. Carnegy, adapted to the
National system of work and lectures, &s revised and perfected by the late U. S.
Masonic Convention, be and the same is hereby approved, and it is hereby
ordered that the same be used by the several Lodges under this jurisdiction
as a guide and text-book in their labors.'
" The Grand Lodge of Kentucky had a very interesting meeting. The brethren
there, never wearying in good works, are industriously engaged in establishing a
high school for the education of the orphan children of Masons. This is a subject
of intense interest to the Masonic family — one which would do more to insure
the perpetuity of human liberty, free institutions, and the principles which have
ever been taught in the Masonic sanctuary, than anything else — for Masonry
and the cultivation of the human intellect have ever gone hand in hand, and
when the latter has been developed, the former has always been disseminated.
To our brethren, therefore, who are engaged in this good cause in Kentucky,
Missouri, and elsewhere, God speed you; and we indulge an abiding hope that the
day is not far distant when the Grand Lodge of Illinois, now in its infancy, will
do likewise.
"Brethren, if time permitted, we might extend this report much further, I nit
we must here come to a clese, regretting that all of you could not have the
pleasure of examining the returns which have been laid before us; if you had,
you would have been satisfied, beyond the possibility of a doubt, that the pillars
of Masonry stand erect and unleaning, and give earnest to the world that the
edifice which they support has stood, and will stand, throughout all time, the
buffetings of prejudice and ignorance, an asylum for the virtuous and the good
of every nation and of every clime.
" Respectfully and fraternally submitted.
"W. B. WARREN,
L. LUSK.'!
The Committee on Finance and Accounts reported that they had found
the reports of the Grand Secretary and Treasurer correct, and that there
was in the hands of the Grand Treasurer, $207.58, and in the hands of the
Grand Secretary, $402.35, making the whole amount of funds 8609 93.
The Grand Treasurer was authorized to use the funds in the treasury
until the next annual communication, as a compensation for his services.
244 HISTORY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS.
The Grand Lodge was then closed.
The membership reported by the several Lodges is as follows : Bodley,
No. 1, 35; Equality, No. 2, 17; Harmony, No. 3, 22; Springfield, No. 4,
33; Macon, No. 8, 24; Friendship, No. 7, 31; St. John's, No. 13, IS;
Warren, No. 14, 37; Peoria, No. 15, 34 ; Temperance, No. 16, — ; Macomb,
No. 17, 16 ; LaFayette, No. 18, 65 ; Hancock, No. 20, 16 ; Warsaw No. 21,
13; Franklin, No. 25, 8; Hiram, No. 26, 15; Piasa, No. 27, 12 ; Monroe,
No. 28, 7. Temperance, No. 16; Clinton, No. 19; Milwaukee, No. 22;
and Cass, No. 23, made no returns. The membership of these Lodges is
estimated to be twenty each. Total membership reported, 403 ; estimated,
{•0; total, 483. There were also reported eighteen Fellow Crafts, one
Entered Apprentice, and five deaths.
BODLEY LODGE NO. 1.
The brethren reported raised by this Lodge during 1844, are as follows :
J. Rossel, Feb. 2; R. E. Smith, March 22; A. McKee, April 9 ; M. Keis,
April 12; J. Rentz and J. Keis, May 10; R. Naylor, May 17; E. C.
Davis, May 24; J. P. Kryder, Aug. 8; V. Zimmermann, Sept. 5; Wil-
liam F. Bauermeister, Nov. 4; C. McVay and Samuel Hutton, Nov. 24;
William H. Gather, Dec. 10.
On the first of April the following action, relating to the Ledges at
Nauvoo, was taken :
"The W. Master remarked that the Nauvoo Lodges were working
and finishing their hall, notwithstanding their dispensation had been
withdrawn by the Grand Lodge.
" Bro. Freeman was called upon', and stated that he had learned that
the Nauvoo Lodges were still at work, receiving, passing, and raising
Masons, and that the brethren of Warsaw Lodge had notified the grand
officers on the subject.
" On motion of Bro. Stahl,
"Resolved, That the Secretary be instructed to inform the Grand Master of
this State, that the Nauvoo, Keokuk, and the[other] Lodges in and about Xauvoo
continue to work, and that they having given notice in a public paper of their
intention to consecrate their Masonic Hall, on the 5th inst, and that the said
Masons pretend not to be in^ossession of official notice that they were de-
prived of their charter and dispensation."
May 3, we find the following on record : "A bill was presented by
the German band of musicians, for services rendered at the funeral of
Bro. J. B. Ijahms." This is the only notice of the decease of that
brother. May 17, the Lodge received a notice from Peoria Lodge No.
15, that that Lodge purposed to celebrate the anniversary of the battle of
Bunker Hill, and the death of General Warren, first Grand Master of
North America, and invited Quincy Lodge to join in the ceremonies on
Tuesday, June 18.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 245
On this invitation the following action was taken :
" After due deliberation, the Lodge
" Resolved, That the Secretary be instructed to strike out that part of the in-
vitation relative to the political meeting, and send it back to our brethren at
Peoria."
The obnoxious political allusion contained in the invitation was to the
effect that in addition to certain attractions therein set forth, a political
assemblage would be held in Peoria on the day following, " to which
the most eminent orators and statesmen in the Union had been invited,
and which its friends expect to be the largest that ever met in the State."
The committee on arrangements for St. John's Day, reported the fol-
lowing correspondence, which explains itself:
'*' To the Trustees of the Congregational Church at Quincy:
" The undersigned committee appointed by the Bodley Lodge of Quinoy,
respectfully ask the permission of the trustees and of the people of said church,
for the public use of their edifice, on Monday, the 24th day of June next, for the
religious exercises of the institution.
" In behalf of the Masonic Fraternity,
(Signed) ".T. H. HOLTON^
H. S. COOLEY, I Committee."
R. E. SMITH. )
To this request the following reply was made:
•" To the Committee of the Bodley Lodge at Quincy :
" In reply to your request for the use of the Congregational edifice for the
religious exercises of the Masonic Fraternity, on the 24th of June next, we must
plead ignorance as to the nature of the institution, and its religious worship,
and as said church is nominally dedicated to the worship of Almighty God, the
Father, Son and Holy Ghost, we feel compelled to withhold our assent.
"In behalf of the First Congregational Church,
(Signed) " A. COMSTOCK, Trustee.
" QUINCY, May 2d, 1844."
Ah! indeed?
June 24, the Lodge celebrated St. John's Day. Thirty-four members
of the Lodge and seventeen "visitors to Bodley Lodge," twenty-eight
members and visitors of Palmyra Lodge, twenty-nine members and
vistors of Hannibal Lodge, three from New London Lodge, eleven mem-
bers of Columbus Lodge No. 5, one from Hiram, No. 26, were present.
Among those from Palmyra were P. H. McBride, Grand Master of Mis-
souri, Stephen W. B. Carnegy, P. G. Master same State. Past Grand
Master Jonas was also present. The Lodge having formed a procession,
preceded by the Quincy band, " marched through several streets of the
city " to the Baptist church, where, after prayer by the Rev. Bro. Best,
of Palmyra, an oration was delivered by Brother Creath, which was
followed up by an appeal on behalf of the Masonic College of Missouri,
246 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
by Bro. R. E. Smith. The Lodge and its visitors, " accompanied by
about one hundred Masons' wives, widows, and orphans," proceeded to-
the Quincy House and partook of a " most excellent dinner."
Oct. 7, Bro. Hedges, an officer of the Lodge, asked leave to demit,
which was denied, on the ground that he being an officer could not
resign or demit.
Oct. 20, the Lodge buried the remains of Bro. D. Nelson. "At the
appointed hour, clothed in white aprons and gloves, they proceeded to
the Congregational Church, and thence to the burying ground, where the
usual ceremonies were performed."
Nov. 4, Breth. Cooley, Harris, and Headley were appointed a commit-
tee to select some orphan boy, to be by the Lodge sent to the Masonic
College of .Missouri. In the record of Dec. 10, we find the following:
'• The question came now before the brethren, whether the Lodge give
up its charter or not, whereupon a motion was made to surrender the
charter, which motion was lost." This action appears to have been
taken in consequence of the numerous demissions — most of the German
brethren having withdrawn.
Dec. 26, the following officers were elected : F. G. Johnston, W. M. ,-
J. II. Ralston, S. W. ; H. S. Simmons, J. W. ; Enoch Conyers, Treasurer;
S. Hutton, Secretary.
Dec. 28, the following appointments were made: L. Palmer, S. D. ;
A. Van Fleet, J. D. ; M. Keiss, Tyler.
EQUALITY LODGE NO. 2.
This Lodge did no work beyond two initiations and one passing during
the year 1844. At the January meeting (6th), the officers elected in De-
cember, 1843, were installed. June 24, the following were elected : A. W.
Pool, W. M.; J. W. Hamilton, S. W.; Valentine F. Evans, J. W.; Wm.
Siddall, Treasurer; J. R. Smoot, Secretary; Joseph E. Watkins, S. D. ;
John Howard, J. D. ; "William Ellage, Tyler.
HARMONY LODGE NO. 3.
In the absence of any other information, the return of this Lodge for
1844 is here given :
" A. C. Dickson, W. M. ; J. Hickman, S. W. ; J. T. Sigler, J. W.,- Mat.
Stacey, Sec.; J. M. Lucas, Treas.: W. B. Warren, S. D.; A. Dunlap,
J. D. : W. S. Hurst, Tyler.
"Past Masters. — William B. Warren, S. W. Lucas, John T. Jones,
P. Coffman, John Gregory, Mat. Stacey, George Hackett, A. V. Putnam.
"Master Masons. — Dennis Rockwell, Jas. T. Holmes, C. Ludlum,
W. W. Happy, J. A. McDougal, A. Dickerson, W. II. Delph, E. J.
Dunlap."
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 247
SPRINGFIELD LODGE NO. 4.
This Lodge reported the following brethren raised during 1844 : Arnold
R. Robinson and James Leaton, June 5; Balsar Ilicki and D. B. Campbell,
Sept. 23; William B. Fonda, Nov. 18; Benjamin Mordecai Moses, Dec. 3.
January 12, Bro. Lusk presided and lectured the Lodge, and also on
Jan. 13. July 29, Bro. Zwisler resigned as W. M., and the following
resolution was passed :
"Resolved, That we tender to our highly esteemed Bro. .Tames Zwisler, late
W. M. of Springfield Lodge No. 4, our sincere expressions of Masonic friendship;
and that as a brother among us. we hold him in high esteem."
The election of a Master to fill the vacancy was deferred until next
regular meeting.
Bro. Helm having resigned his membership, was created an honorary
member for life.
August 24, Bro. William Lavely was elected Master, to fill the vacancy
caused by the resignation of Bro. Zwisler.
November 18, Bro. James Shepherd, the Secretary, having demitted,
Bro. N. W. Matheny was appointed in his stead. At this meeting Bro.
Lavely ordered a fine^of twenty-five cents each assessed against eighteen
absent members.
December 27, officers as follows were elected : William Lavely, W. M.;
George R. Weber, S. W.; N. A. Garland, J. W.; Maurice Doyle, Treas.;
A. R. Robinson, Sec.; James Leggott, Tyler. The following appoint-
ments were made: Z. P. Cabanis, S. D.; John Uhler, J. D.; Francis A.
McNeill, Master of Ceremonies. The Finance Committee reported that
the Lodge was indebted to the Treasurer in the sum of $84.70.
Far West Lodge No. 5, still continuing under the jurisdiction of the
Grand Lodge of Missouri, made no returns to the Grand Lodge of Illi-
nois, and no returns were received from Columbus Lodge No. 6.
FRIENDSHIP LODGE NO. 7.
H. B. McKenney, N. G. H. Morrill, and Isaac Means, Feb. 1 ; S. A.
Mason, Jacob M. Morrill, and William P. Burroughs, Feb. 29 ; J. B.
Nash, Oct. 24; F. II. Burrows and Le Grand Wynkoop, Dec. 19, were
raised by this Lodge in the year 1844. March 9, it was voted to celebrate
St. John's Day, and a committee of ten appointed to make arrange-
ments. April 25, this order was re-considered, in consequence of the
inability of tfie Lodge to defray the necessary expenses. May 30, the
following officers were elected : Horace Preston, W. M. ; James Camp-
bell, S. W. ; D. B. McKenney, J. W. ; James McKenney, Treasurer;
Jacob M. Morrill, Secretary; Nathan Morehouse, S. D. : Stephen Fuller,
J. D. ; Joseph Mason, Tyler.
248 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
MACON LODGE NO. 8.
This Lodge raised in the year 1844, Brethren J. J. Patterson, March
2; William Stamper, March 15; B. Y. Hooper, March 17; William J.
Condell, April 22; George Goodman, April 29.
May 25, upon motion of Bro. Gorin, it was ordered that the business
of the Lodge should be transacted in the Master's degree, except ihe
initiating of candidates and passing to the second degree. An invitation
was received from Peoria Lodge No. 15, inviting the Lodge to attend the
celebration of the anniversary of the battle of Bunker Hill, which was
declined with thanks.
The semi-annual election was then held, resulting as follows : Charles
II. Pringle, W. M.; J. E. Gorin, S. W.; William Stamper, J. W. ; H.
Eobinson, Treas.; Jasper J. Peddicord, Sec'y ; James Ashton, Tyler.
June 24th, the Treasurer reported $1.87-J in the treasury. Sept. 14, the
Lodge interred the remains of Bro. William Bosworth. Oct. 19, the by-
laws were so amended as to provide for election of officers annu-
ally, before 24th of June, instead of twice each year as heretofore,
yet on the 24th November the following officers were elected for the
ensuing twelve months: Charles H. Pringle, W. M.; William Stamper,
S. W.; Preston Butler, J. W. ; Henry Prather, Treas. ; W. J. Condell,
Sec.; James Ashton, Tyler. George Goodman and J. Y. Braden were
appointed Deacons.
RUSHVILLE LODGE NO. 9, and JULIET LODGE NO. 10.
These Lodges made no returns to the Grand Lodge in 1844.
ST. JOHN'S LODGE NO. 13.
The following raisings were reported by this Lodge for the year 1844:
Wm. Paul, J. Baxley, Mar. 28; T.B.Elliott, May 30; Cook, June 25.
March 28, the Lodge invited Bro. Lusk to be present at his earliest
convenience and lecture the Lodge. May 30, the Lodge held its semi-
annual election, at which Bro. A. Kirkpatrick was elected W. M.; Asa
Holdredge, S. W.; W. J. Cox, J. W.; Ambrose O'Connor, Sec.; Win. Paul,
Treas.; E. M. Moore, S. D.; J. Baxley, J. D ; T. B. Elliott, Steward and
Tyler. Dec. 19, an election was held, which resulted in transferring
Bro. Holdredge from the West to the East; G. W. Gilson was elected S. W.;
T. B. Elliott was taken from the ante-room and placed in the South;
Wm. A. Merritt was elected Treasurer; Wm. Paul, Secretary ; J. Baxley,
S. D.; Hennessy, J. D.; and Cook, Tyler.
WAREEN LODGE NO. 14.
The following named brethren were added to this Lodge by raising
during 1844: II. H. M. Butt and William Banks, Feb. 10; James S.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 249
Alexander, Feb. 26; M. J. Pearce, Mar. 9 ; Frederick Wolfflin, Mar. 23 :
Norris Hobart, July 30; Joseph B. Cockrell, Sept. 30; E. J. Reardou,
Nov. 30. March 9, the Treasurer having failed to settle, the Secretary
was ordered to hold in his possession all funds thereafter coming into
his hands. May 28, the Lodge accepted an invitation to celebrate St.
John's Day with the brethren of Smithland, Kentucky.
June 24, officers were elected for the " twelve months ensuing," the
by-laws relating to elections having been amended. This election
resulted in the choice of E. H. Gatewood, W. M.; E. Bogardus, 8. W.;
E. R. Roe, J. W.; John L. Campbell, Treas.; T. C. Buntin, Sec.; C. Gold,
S. D.; E. J. Nicholson, J. D.; James M. Jones, Tyler. Bro. Bogardus
•" feeling unwilling to act any longer in the office of S. W., resigned, and
Bro. J. S. Roberts was chosen in his place." Whereupon, Bro. Bogardus
was appointed " Conductor," and Bro. Hobart, Chaplain. The Lodge
then proceeded to the Presbyterian Church, where the officers were
installed, an oration being delivered by Bro. Roe. Upon their return to
the lodge-room, the following resolution was passed:
"Resolved, That the thanks of this Fraternity be tendered to the ladies of Shaw-
neetown, for their liberality, kindness, and sumptuousness in having a dinner
provided for the occasion."
PEORIA LODGE NO. 15.
Raisings as follows : A. Wren, Feb. 3 ; Martin L. Tucker, April 13 ;
Vivaldi W. Potter, May 11; John H. Rankin, May 14; W. F. Bryan,
June 1; William H. Fessenden and William Compher, June 3; Clark
Cleveland and Charles W. Hall, June 6; Moritz Brey and M. M. Webb,
June 8; M. L. Leopold, Aug. 23.
On the 3d of February, the officers elect were installed, Breth. Heyl
and Hurd having been appointed Deacons. The financial condition of
the Lodge did not appear good, as there was in the treasury but $9.65.
The Lodge had in addition to this, one hundred dollars loaned out,
which, as the record informs us, " was in process of collection in the
Peoria Circuit Court." The Finance Committee reported $56 due the .
Lodge from its members.
It will be remembered that at the December meeting (1843), Bro.
Heyl offered a resolution providing for the celebration of St. John's Day.
At the meeting of March 2, this resolution was taken up, when it was
decided " that the Lodge celebrate a day in June next," and appoint a
committee of arrangements, who, on the 6th of March, published the
following notice :
" MASONIC CELEBRATION."
" Peoria Lodge IS'o. 15, will celebrate the anniversary of the battle of Bunker
Hill, and the death of Gen. Warren, first Grand Master of North America, in the
250 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
town of Peoria, on Tuesday, the 18th day of June next. Neighboring Lodges are
invited to attend as such, and all transient brethren in good standing will be
cordially welcomed.
" Committee of Arrangement, " J. C. HEYLE,
A. O. GARRETT,
A. M. HUNT."
"P. S. — A large political assemblage is to convene in Peoria on the day follow-
ing, (19th). Should any of the delegates to said convention belong to our Fra-
ternity, it is presumed they would be gratified in participating with us in the
celebration, as it is expected the exercises of the day will be imposing.
"PEORIA, March 6th, 1844."
It was the political allusions contained in this notice and the letter of
invitation sent Bodley Lodge, to which that Lodge objected.
On the 30th of March, Bro..Metcalfe introduced a resolution providing
that every candidate should state on his petition " that he has read and
approved our by-laws." This is a good practice, and should be required
of all Lodges.
June 18, the celebration took place as intended. A copy of the pro-
gramme of the occasion is pasted in the record before us. One hundred
and one brethren were present. The procession left the hall at 10
o'clock, and proceeded to the Methodist Church, where an oration was
delivered by " Bro. Henderson, of Stark county," followed by an address
from Bro. Sam'l H. Davis, " on the beauties of the Fellow Craft's
degree." The Lodge and its visitors then returned to " Bro. Garrett's "
(the Planter's House), where one hundred and thirteen were entertained.
The ode used on this occasion we re-produce :
1.
" Sacred to Heaven, behold the dome appears !
Lo, what august solemnity it wears !
Angels themselves have deigned to deck the frame,
And beauteous Sheba shall report its fame.
'When the Queen of the South shall return
To the climes which acknowledge her sway ;
\Vhere the sun's warmer beams fiercely burn,
The Princess with transport shall say,
Well worth my journey, I've seen
A Monarch both graceful and wise,
Deserving the love of a Queen,
And a Temple well worth the skies.
"Open ye gates, receive a Queen who shares
With equal sense your happiness and cares;
Of riches much, but more of wisdom see,
Proportion'd workmanship and Masonry.
HISTOKY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS. 251
4.
"O! charming Sheba, here behold
What massy stores of burnished gold !
Yet richer is our art!
Wisdom and beauty both combine,
Our art to raise, our hearts to join!
Give to Masonry the prize,
Where the fairest choose the wise ;
Beauty still shall wisdom love,
Beauty and order reign above."
August 17, the remains of Bro. Aquilla "Wren (raised Feb. 3), were
interred with the honors of Masonic burial, in the "new Masonic burial
ground." Thirty-three brethren were present at this funeral — nearly
the whole membership. On returning to the Lodge room, the following
resolution was passed :
"Resolved, That the thanks of this Lodge be tendered to Bro. William JTale
for his liberal donation to the members and friends of Peoria Lodge No. 15, of
the block on Jackson and Perry Streets."
Broth. Eouse, Underbill, and Sweat were appointed a committee to
see that the lot was properly surveyed, fenced, and otherwise taken
care of.
Sept. 28, Bro. Davis resigned, as Master, and Bro. Peter Sweat was
elected, " he having passed the Oriental chair in a regular Lodge
of Past Masters." The Lodge had up to this time been holding its
meetings at Bro. Garrett's Hotel (the Planters House), but the meeting
just referred to was held "over Bro. P. Sweat's store,"
Oct. 5, the Lodge met in its "new hall, corner of Washington and Ful-
ton streets."
The record of Oct. 26, bears upon it a plat of the block presented by
Bro. Wm. Hale, for a burying ground (for which donation he was created
an honorary member), by which it appears that it had been surveyed
and laid off in lots, numbering in all 163. The plat was (or is) nearly
square, one corner being cut off by "Isaac Underbill's Lane." But three
of these lots are marked as being occupied, or owned.
Dec. 27, the following officers were elected : Geo. T. Metcalfe, W. M.;
John C. Heyl, S. W.; William Darst, J. W.; William E. Mason, Treas,;
John H. Rankin, Sec.; George W. Rodecker, Tyler.
The attendance upon the Lodge during the year averaged twenty-nine.
TEMPERANCE LODGE NO. 16.
But one brother was raised by this Lodge during 1844, viz.: Charles
Kinsey, Jan. 4.
May 21, an invitation was received from Peoria Lodge No. 15, to join
with that Lodge in celebrating the anniversary of the battle of Bunker
Hill, which was declined, owing to the distance of Vandalia from Peoria.
252 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
June 19, semi-annual election. William Hodge "was elected W. M.
by acclamation;" Quintus C. Alexander, S. W.; C. H. Hodge, J. W.;
G. C. Wood, Treasurer; Wm. M. Black, Secretary; D. B. Hodge and
J. T. B. Stapp, Deacons; Moses Phillips, Tyler. All these officers were
elected unanimously, save the Treasurer. June 24, these officers were in-
stalled. Dec. 9, the following officers were elected : Quintus C. Alex-
ander, W. M.; C. H. Hodge, S. W.; G. C. Wood, J. W.; Abner Johnston,
Treas.; William M. Black, Sec'y; Moses Phillips, Tyler.
Dec. 16, the Lodge buried, with the usual ceremonies, Bro. William
Hodge, late W. M. Dec. 27, the same sad rites were had over the mortal
remains of Quintus C. Alexander, the Master of the Lodge.
MACOMB LODGE NO. 17.
Bro. James W. Bailey, July 13, was the only brother upon whom the
Master's degree was conferred during the year.
July 13, the following officers were elected : Joseph E. Wyne, W. M.;
Thomas A. Brooking, S. W.; Cyrus A. Lawson, J. W.; Charles M. Bar-
tleson, Treas.; Pinckney H. Walker, Sec'y; William Ervin, S. D.; Nelson
Montgomery, J. D.; and George H. Eice, Tyler. These officers were not
installed until Oct. 4, owing to the inability of Bro. Wyne to procure the
Past Master's degree, which was finally done, and the officers installed.
Dec. 26, another election was had, Grand Master Lusk presiding.
Pinckney H. Walker was elected W. M.; William Ervin, S. W.; Joseph
E. Wyne, J. W.; C. M. Bartleson, Treas.; Nelson Montgomery, Sec'y;
John Anderson, Steward and Tyler.
Dec. 27, Grand Master Lusk installed the officers, having conferred
the Past Master's degree upon Bro. Walker. Ten dollars was voted to
the subscription to compensate Bro. Wm. K. Stewart, for his services in
the town of Macomb as " Preacher."
LAFAYETTE LODGE NO. 18.
This Lodge raised the following brethren during the year: W. B.
Snowhook and J. L. Howe, "3d Monday in January"; E. L. Sherman
and William Sheer, Feb. 17; D. J. Surdam, Feb. 20; J. J. Huntley, A.
C. Taylor, P. P. Eobinson, and V. A. Boyer, March 18; Cornelius Lan-
sing, March 25 ; Thomas Brooks, April 1 ; Getzler, June 3 ; Isaac N.
Arnold, June 17; John J. Jackson, Aug. 20 ; Joshua Bell, Sept. 2; Isaac
P. Hatfield, Oct. 1; John B. Irvin, Nov. 4; Charles R. Starkweather and
W. S. Brown, Dec. 2 ; Lot Whitcomb, Dec. 3 ; Virgil H. Eachus, Dec. 11.
On the 20th of May the Lodge was notified of the death of Bro. H. L.
Gibson, a Fellow Craft. At this meeting it was
"Resolved, That this Lodge is not furnished with the constitution (of the Grand
Lodge); we will delay paying any more dues until they are furnished ;
And the Secretary was directed to inform the Grand Master of the fact.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 253
On the 17th of June the semi-annual election was held, resulting as
follows: Carding Jackson was elected W. M.; H. W. Bigelow, S. W.;
M. Taylor, J. W. ; Samuel J. Lowe, Treas. ; L. C. Kercheval, Sec. ; John
Davis, S. D.; Alfred C.Taylor, J. D.; John Ferns, Tyler; R. Chester and
R. J. Hamilton, Stewards. The Lodge refused to celebrate St. John's
Day in a public manner, and ordered the installation of officers (which
was June 24th) to be performed " with closed doors." At this meeting
the petition for Belvidere Lodge was recommended. Sept. 2, Bro. Ker-
cheval resigned his office as Secretary, when Bro. V. A. Boyer was
elected to fill the vacancy, and on motion of Bro. W. F. Walker, a vote
of thanks was tendered Bro. Kercheval. Nov.. 18, Bro. William Jack-
son was initiated, the Lodge voting to charge no fee for his initiation, on
account of services rendered the Lodge by his father, Carding Jackson.
Dec. 2, Bro. Florence Mahoney presented the Lodge with a " Master's
Carpet" for which a vote of thanks " was unanimously passed." At this
meeting a " petition of sundry persons to form a new Lodge was pre-
sented and acted upon, and petitioners recommended to the Grand
Lodge of Illinois." We have no knowledge as to what Lodge this record
alludes to, but presume it was Apollo No. 32. Dec. 16, another election
was had, when Bro. Carding Jackson was elected W. M. ; M. Taylor, S.
W. : Samuel J.Lowe, J. W. ; H. W. Bigelow, Treasurer; William S.
Brown, Secretary ; Thomas Brooks and George B. Fearing, Deacons;
Capt. J. Jackson and I. P. Hatfield, Stewards; I. P. Hatfield, Tyler.
CLINTON LODGE NO. 19.
As this Lodge made no returns in 1844, and we are not in possession of
its records, we are at this time unable to give any information concern-
ing it.
HANCOCK LODGE NO. 20.
This Lodge made the following return in 1844: Lewis Evans, W. M.;
Benjamin Avise, S. W. ; Alexander Sympson, J. W. ; George Bailman,
Sec.; Chauncey Robinson, Treas.; E. S. Freeman and Samuel Comer,
Deacons ; Franklin J. Bartlett, Steward; Wm. G. Yetter, Tyler.
Past Masters. — Lewis Evans, B. A. Gallup, B. Avise.
Master Masons. — Thomas Burnett, William Daniel, Wesley Williams,
R. T. Smith, 0. C. Skinner, David E. Head, George W. Thatcher, Har-
ney L. Summers.
Fellow Craft. — Elihu Pembroke.
Died. — Andrew D. Bogua, August 14, 1844.
254 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
WARSAW LODGE NO. 21.
Three brethren were raised by this Lodge during 1844, viz. : William
YJ>r_T.)_Head, July 22; J. C. Davis, Nov. 18; W. H. Roosevelt, Dec. 2.
Dec. 19, the Lodge elected the following officers : A. J. Chittenden, W.
M.; John Montague, S. W. ; J. Berry, J. W. ; Wm. H. Roosevelt, Treas.;
H. Stephens, Sec.; Mark Aldrich, S. D.; Isham Cochran, J. D. ; German
Andrews, Tyler.
MILWAUKEE LODGE NO. 22.
We are unable to afford any information regarding this Lodge.
CASS LODGE NO. 23.
This Lodge did not confer the third degree during the year 1844. No
meetings were held in the months of December 1843, and January 1844.
February 3, the following action was taken :
" Bro. William Bassett moved that Cass Lodge No. 23 be removed to
Beardstown, Cass county, Illinois, and that its regular meetings be here-
after held at that place. The motion was seconded and thirded."
On February 22, the motion was adopted, and the next meeting,
(March 28) was held at Beardstown, where the Lodge has continued to
meet up to the present time. No meetings held in April, June, Septem-
ber, October, November and December. /
ST. GLAIR LODGE NO. 24.
The raisings reported by this Lodge during 1844 are: Moses Hart,
Feb. 13 ; E. H. Talbot, April 2 ; Ausby Fike, Aug. 37; Timothy Hinck-
ley, Sept. 3. April 2d, "a communication was received from the St.
Louis Lodge of Secret Monitors, which was upon motion laid on the
table." May 14, the Lodge decided that no brother should advance
until proficient on the preceding degree. May 28, the petition for Mon-
roe Lodge (28) was recommended. Bro. Taylor resigned as Secretary.
June 11, we find the following recorded :
"A communication was received from the Secretary of the Grand Lodge
of Illinois, acknowledging the receipt of four dollars from St. Clair
Lodge No. 24, by the hands of C. G. Y. Taylor, the Secretary, also notic-
ing the conduct of Bro. , in participating in the procession had by
the Lodges at Nauvoo, at the time their hall was dedicated. * * *
On motion, a committee was appointed to investigate and collate the
particulars in relation to Bro. 's conduct while at Nauvoo, in partici-
pating in their Masonic procession. Bros. Taylor, Hook, and Mace
were appointed said committee." An invitation was received from the
HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. IT,',
Lodge at Alton, requesting St. Clair Lodge to assist them in celebrating
the 24th June, which was declined because the election of officers took
place on the 25th. June 15, a like invitation was received from the
Lodges at St. Louis, and disposed of in the same manner. June 25, the
following officers were elected : George Kelly, W. M. ; Seth Catlin, S.
W. ; George W. Hook, J. W. ; David Wilver, Treas.j J. Mace, Sec.; Julius
Raith, S. D. ; J. L. D. Morrison, J. D. The election of Tyler was held
over until the next meeting. An invitation extended by Monroe Lodge
to celebrate the fourth of July on the 6th, was accepted. The case of the
brother charged with associating with clandestine Masons of Nauvoo',
was taken up and postponed indefinitely. July 9, the officers were in-
stalled, and the committee on the K"auvoo matter reported as follows :
" The committee appointed to investigate Bro. 's conduct while at Nauvoo,
on a late excursion in an alleged participation in Masonic ceremonies with indi-
viduals who were members of Masonic Lodges under arrest, and in fact, whose
charter had been demanded, but which said Lodge very improperly refused to
surrender to the authorities appointed to receive them, would most respect-
fully state that it is a matter of great delicacy with them to report upon the
conduct of one with whom they have been so long and favorably connected in Ma-
sonic privileges, nevertheless they feel their paramount obligation to the Order
whose honor has on this occasion been more particularly intrusted to their
care, the ancient landmarks and usages of which it is the duty of all true Ma-
sons to cultivate and perpetuate; therefore they hope no exceptions will be taken
should the committee speak with that frankness, candor, and severity which
the importance of the subject demands. First, then, it is evident that a principle
which all true Masons recognize as a fundamental principle, the violation of
which is most solemly interdicted, has by Bro. been violated, viz. : Hold-
ing Masonic communion with clandestine Masons, which fact is received from
Bro. 's letter to Bro. Helm of Springfield and to the G. S. at Jacksonville,
which reads as follows:
"'With the Masons at Nauvoo I associated in procession (not in work) attended
their dedication ceremonies of the Masonic hall of Nauvoo as a Mason.' Bro.
should have known that there is probably not an instance in the annals of
the Order where a Masonic procession was had without the Lodge or Lodges
being opened in some of the degrees, in fact it could not have been a Masonic
procession otherwise. If otherwise it would have been a procession of Masons,
which in regular Masonry is a very different thing.
" If the above reasoning be. correct, and we think it is, then it follows that
Bro. associated with those individuals in their Lodge capacity, and of course
involved himself in their pretended Masonic labor, of whatsoever character it
was, and also by his presence and association gave countenance to their illegal
and contumelious operations. The above facts necessarily present the following
inquiry to the mind: Did Bro. knowingly commit the above named viola-
tion ? Bro. -> — states in his letter ' having heard previous to my visit there, that
they labored under the disagreeable sentence of suspension from the G. L. of
Ills, <tc., I cautiously approached there any association. Inquiry was made if
they labored under the sentence, the answer was positively no ! producing the
dispensation and declaring it had not been demanded by proper authority, and
256 HISTORY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS.
lurther stated that no cause existed for suspension. Under those assertions, 1
felt at ease.'
" Our first business is with the first part of the above extract, viz. : ' Having
heard previous to my visit there that they labored under the disagreeable sen-
tence of suspension from the G. L. of Ills.' Now the proof is clear that Bro.
knew as well as he ever knew any historic fact, that their operations had been
by the authority of the Grand Lodge interdicted. It is worse than useless on
his part to plead ignorance or any other circumstance as a refuge. The subter-
fuge is too weak to receive attention for a moment. The committee will, however,
give the facts which prove his knowledge in relation to the disability under
which those Lodges labored. First, our W. M. had received the information
from the officers of the Grand Lodge personally, and had communicated it to
our Lodge. Secondly, Bro. endeavored to vouch for the admission of a Mr.
Younger into our Lodge, which the Lodge refused to admit because he was
a member of one of those Lodges which were illegally working. Bro.
stoutly contended for the admission of his friend, but was peremptorily denied
because the individual occupied the position of a clandestine Mason. Bro.
is well aprised of every fact urged in the premises at the time. Thirdly, the
Secretary of his own Lodge cautioned him particularly the day before he start-
ed for Nauvoo, not to have any Masonic connection with the Nauvoo Masons,
reminding Bro. of the interdiction of the Grand Lodge in their case.
" Next we come to the second clause of the above extract, which reads thus : ' I
cautiously approached there, any association. Inquiry was made if they labored
under this sentence. The.answer was positively no! producing the dispensation
and declaring it had not been demanded by proper authority.'
"Bro. also states in his letter to Dr. Helm and the Grand Secretary, that
he read a copy of a letter detained in Helm Lodge (Nauvoo) responsive to the
demand of the G. L. of 111. for their dispensation. Your committee can not see
that Bro. evinced much caution in the matter; if he had, certainly the re-
sponse of Helm Lodge to the G. L., as well in fact as in tone, together with the
facts he received from his own immediate brethren, should have convinced him
there was something wrong, and of necessity that wrong must be with the sub-
ordinate Lodges, as their life and existence depended upon the G. Lodge, from
from which all legal authority emanates, the mere intimation from the G. Ledge
for her subordinates to suspend or deliver their warrants on the part of the sub-
ordinate Lodges, should be met with courtesy and obedience, and by individual
Masons respected and honored.
"After the officers of the Grand Lodge had demanded their dispensation, it
was an insult on the part of Helm Lodge, still to call upon the Grand Lodge
for authority to stop them in their work. And it is heaping insult upon insult
for an individual Mason, after having set at naught the will of the G. Lodge, to
reiterate the call for proper authority to investigate the Nauvoo difficulties. The
committee have indulged in this seeming digression to show that in the faco of
the clearest facts proving the illegal operations of the Nauvoo Lodges, Bro.
wishes to justify and exonerate himself by taking the position of a mediator
calling for investigation by the G. Lodge, as though she had acted arbitrarily
and ignorantly in the premises.
"The committee do not wish to indulge in mere conjectures, but it does seern
that Bro. was determined to participate in the Nauvoo display, though he
should do it in contravention of the usages of Masonry, if so he could but es-
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 257
cape the expressed condemnation of the Order. We think this is evident from
the fact that he stated to several before he left Belleville that he proposed going
to Nauvoo to participate in the dedication of the Masonic hall erecting there,
and also from the fact that he took his Masonic regalia with him for the occa-
sion. Your committee are aware that no good end would be answered by in-
flicting punishment upon an individual who had acted innocently or ignorantly
in the premises, yet where there is a flagrant violation of the principles of the
Institution, it should be met with rigor and severity. We feel, from the facts
which have been stated, that Bro. acted knowingly in the case, and most
willfully violated Ancient Masonic usage.
" In view of the above, your committee feel it their duty to offer the following
resolutions :
"1st. Resolved, That Bro. , by participating with the Nauvoo Lodges in
procession, 4c., treated the authorities of the G. Lodge with contempt and vio-
lated an ancient established principle of the Fraternity.
"2d. Resolved, That as Bro. has acted unmasonically as is shown, by
the above report, and expressed in tlie resolution preceding this, the Lodge
deal with him according to Masonic usages in the Fraternity.
Dated June 14th, 1844. " C. G. Y. TAYLOR,
G. W. HOOK,
J. MACE.
|- Committee."
The sentence, as assessed, was then carried into execution. Oct. 2,
the delegates to the Grand Lodge were directed to vote for the removal
of the Grand Lodge to Springfield.
PIASA LODGE NO. 27.
The first meeting of this Lodge of which we have any record, was held
October 15th, 1844, at which time the following brethren were present:
"DAVID ALLEN, Worshipful Master.
TIMOTHY SOUTHER, Senior Warden.
SAM'L G. BALEY, Junior Warden.
J. C. KETCHAM, Secretary.
ISHAM HARDY, Treasurer.
J. W. SCHWEPPE, Senior Deacon.
S. R. DOLBEE, Junior Warden.
WESLEY POLAND, Tyler.
" BRETHREN.
"EDWARDS and WATSON.
" VISITIXO BRETHREN.
"DODGE, MAXEY, LEBOLD, BOSTWICK, HIBBARD, CLARK, DOW,
HUNTER."
All the visiting brethren were from Franklin Lodge No. 22.
No formal organization was had, the Lodge going right to work by con-
ferring the Master's degree upon N. G. Edwards. The Master's degree
was conferred upon Breth. L. F. Morin, Nov. 5; J. D. Pearce, Nov. 14;
Edward Keating, Dec. 24.
November 21, Bro. Charles Howard dedicated the hall, constituted the
Lodge, and installed the officers. St. John's Day (Dec. 27) was appro-
priately celebrated by Piasa and Franklin Lodges.
—17
258 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
UNDER THE JURISDICTION OF THE GRAND
LODGE OF MISSOURI.
FAR WEST, NO. 29, AT GALENA.
Raisings reported, Myetr, April 27; Oliver, May 25.
Dec. 26, the following officers were elected : H. H. Gear, W. M.; Robert
Thompson, S. W.; Mathew Fawcett, J. W.; John E. Smith, Treas.:
M. Y. Johnson, Sec.; Wm. B. Whiteside, S. D.; James Armon, J. D.;
J. P. De Zoya and Hoack, Stewards; Wm. M. Campbell, Tyler.
On the 13th December, the following letter was written :
" GALENA, December 13th, 1844.
""To the Grand Lodge of Missouri:
"The undersigned, appointed a committee at a regular meeting of Far West
ILodge 29, held in the city of Galena, on the 23d of November, A. L. 5844, to collect
the dues of the members and remit to the Grand Lodge, would respectfully
^represent unto your Ancient Order that, owing to many causes, this Lodge has not
.prospered, but regular meetings have been held, at which little or no business
•has been done; that the records of the Lodge have been indifferently kept; that
it is now next to impossible to determine who are the members at this time,
some having demitted, and others removed from the State, with very many
having joined the Dubuque and Platteville Lodges, where they are now paying
dues. They have thought proper, with the abstract of the proceedings herewith
sent, to send the names of those belonging to the Lodge whose names are sub-
scribed to the constitution, and with their names, the dues for two years of the
members in arrears. By so doing, we will be rendering to the Grand Lodge an act
of justice, and placing ourselves in a situation to exert an influence in carrying
out the object of the Order:
" The names of members— Charles Gear, A. T. Crow, Geo. M. Mitchell, William
B. Whiteside, Joseph Doplar, M. Fawcett, Daniel Wann, T. B. Farnsworth,
William M. Campbell, John McNulty, J. B. Latham, Richard Patterson, Robert
Thomson, A. C. Davis, Hezekiah H. Gear, Edward W. Turner, E. F. Ogden, T. C.
Legate, and Nicholas Wall; being $26.50 due the Grand Lodge, at seventy-five
cents a year. We herewith enclose you a draft for the amount, which you will
please accept, and credit this Lodge with the amount.
" We are also directed to request of the Grand Lodge an acquittance, so we can
join the Grand Lodge of this State, or Wisconsin, they being much more con-
venient to this Lodge.
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
'• Yours fraternally,
(Signed.) "M. V. JOHNSON,
ROBERT THOMSON."
HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 259
MARION, NO. 59, AT SALEM.
Raisings reported, Franklin Conant, S. Joseph Wronowski, and W. A.
Thomas, April 9 ; Abner F. Haynie and II. M. Grant, July 8; Samuel J.
Hunn, Dec. 24; Wm. J. Stephenson, Dec. 27.
March 11, the following election was had: W. II. H. Barnes, W. M.;
H. P. Boyakin, S. W.; J. A. Goudy, J. W.; Van Tramp Turner, Treas.;
H. S. Mills, Sec. At the meeting of June 10, Stephen "W. B. Carnegy,
Grand Master of Missouri, presided.
July 8, the Lodge held another election, resulting as follows:
Henderson P. Boyakin, W. M.; A. F. King, S. W.; Ira Potter, J. W.;
S. J. Wronowski, Treas.; H. S. Mills, Secretary. On August 27, Isaac G.
Barr was initiated, and Sept. 12, the Lodge performed the melancholy
duty of interring his remains. The usual resolutions of sorrow and
respect were passed, also the following :
"It was unanimoutly resolved, That we do believe it to be the duty of this
Lodge to guard especially the minor children of deceased Bro. Isaac G. Barr,
and to see that they are properly educated."
Nov. 11, the Lodge held another election, making the third in one
year. The officers, with the exception of Master and Senior Warden,
were re-elected — Breth. Barnes and King exchanging stations.
Franklin and Hillsboro Lodges made no return to the Grand Lodge in
1844, consequently we are unable to extend any information concerning
them.
CHAPTER XVIII
1845.
GRAND LODGE.
The sixth annual communication of the Grand Lodge was held at
Jacksonville, on Monday, October 6th, 1845.
"PRESENT:
"M. W. LEVI LUSK, Grand Master.
R. W. NELSON D. MORSE, Sr. Gr. Warden, p. t.
" " WILLIAM LAV ELY, Jr. Gr. Warden, p. t.
" " and Rev. W. F. WALKER, Gr. Chaplain, p. t.
" " PHILIP COPFMAN, Gr. Treasurer.
" " A. C. DICKSON, Gr. Secretary, p. t.
" JAMES L. ANDERSON, Sr. G. Deacon.
" NATHAN DRESSER, Jr. Gr. Deacon, p. t.
" EDGAR BOGARDUS, Gr. Sw. Bearer, p. t.
" WILLIAM ERVIN, Gr. Pursuivant, p. t.
" JOHN GREGORY, Gr. Tyler.
M. W. ALEX. DUNLAP, Past Gr. Master.
" REPRESENTATIVES :
" WILLIAM S. HURST, J. W., Harmony Lodge No. 3,
Z. P. CABANIS, proxy, J. W., Springfield Lodge No. 4.
WILLIAM LAVELY, W. M. No. 4, and proxy for Macon Lodge No. &.
JAMES L. ANDERSON, W. M. No. 9.
Rev. W. F. WALKER, proxy, S. W., Joliet, No. 10, and W. M. St. John's, No. 13.
AVILLIAM STUART, proxy, 8. W., Joliet, No. 10.
JOHN GREGORY, proxy, S. W., St. John's, No. 13.
EDGAR BOGARDUS, W. M., No. 13.
WILLIAM ERVIN, W. M., No. 17.
NATHAN DRESSER, proxy, S. W., No. 17.
LEMUEL SMITH, J. W., No. 17.
NELSON D. MORSE, W. M., No. 26.
" VISITORS :
"SAMUEL STONE and JOSEPH G. CASSELL, of No. 3.
CHARLES W. CHATTERTON and DAVID LOGAN, of No. 4."
HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 261
Of these representatives, Breth. Walker and Stuart, who represented
No. 10, were members of 0/iental and Apollo Lodges, U. D., at Chicago;
John Gregory, who represented No. 13, was a member of No. 3; and
Wm. Lavely, who represented No. 8, was a member of No. 4.
The Grand Lodge being opened, and the reading of the minutes of the
last communication dispensed with, the Grand Master delivered the
following address :
"BRETHREN: — I regret very much that circumstances over which I had no
control were such that I was not able to collate and throw into form some of the
most important portions of our foreign correspondence, together with a report
of my own actings and doings as Grand Master, as a kind of annual communica-
tion from the Chair, for the action of the Grand Lodge. I am, however, con-
strained, under the circumstances, to content myself with selecting but one or
two of my acts, in which I conceive are embraced vital principles, for the approval
or disapproval of this Grand Lodge in similar cases that may hereafter arise.
"I received a communication a few weeks ago from a worthy brother, pro-
pounding several queries upon the following premises, viz.: A man had been
initiated and passed to the second degree, and upon application to be raised,
was rejected. Query: Can he take the degree in any Lodge without the unani-
mous consent of this Lodge ? Until after twelve months, can he be ballotted for
in this? To which I answered, in substance, that a rejection upon a ballot for a
degree did not amount to a suspension or expulsion from a Lodge, nor did it
divest the applicant of the rights, privileges, or benefits of the degree or degrees
which he might have taken; that if he was rejected for want of skill, whenever
he perfected himself in the degree or degrees he had taken, he had a right to
demand and receive a higher degree, unless there were other objections; in
that case, the objections should be embodied in the form of charges, to which
he should be required to answer. I also decided that it would be highly improper
for another Lodge to confer the degree, without the consent of the Lodge which
had rejected him.
" One other matter I will lay before the Grand Lodge. At the last grand com-
munication a committee was appointed, at the suggestion of the Committee on
Petitions and Grievances, to repair to Keokuk and make certain investigations,
and report to the Grand Master. Bro. Montague, of Warsaw, and two others
were appointed. Some time after, Bro. Montague informed me that it was not
convenient for them to act, and requested me to appoint others. I named to
him several brothers in that neighborhood, and authorized him to select and
appoint two to act with him, and report to me. I do not know what his action
has been. I submit the foregoing for the action of the Grand Lodge."
He then reported granting four dispensations for new Lodges — one at
Barry, Pike county; two at Chicago (Apollo and Oriental); and one at
" Charleston, Coles county, by the name of Morning Star."
So much of the address as related to decisions, was referred to Breth
Walker (33), Anderson (9), and Bogardus (14).
The following committees were then appointed :
To Examine Visitors. — Bogardus (14), Hurst (3), and Stuart (32).
On Lodges U. D. — Morse (26), Anderson (9), and Lavely (4).
262 HISTORY OF MASONliY IN ILLINOIS.
The latter committee were enjoined by the Grand Master to report in
the afternoon, so that the Lodges reported upon by them might be ad-
mitted to representation by their delegates.
The Grand Lodge then adjourned until 2 o'clock P. M.
MONDAY AFTERNOON, Oct. 6th, 1845.
The Grand Lodge met pursuant to adjournment. Present, as in the
morning, with the addition of:
I
" JOHN C. HEYLE, S. W., Peoria No. 15.
GEORGE T. BROWN, proxy for W. M., No. 25, (Franklin), and 8. W. of No 27.
W. H. GAYLE, proxy W. M., No. 28.
JOHNR. CRANDALL, W. M., No. 29.
JOSEPH JACKSON, S. W., Barry U. D.
FRANCIS A. McNEILL, P. M., No. 4."
The Committee on Lodges U. D. made report recommending the
granting of charters to Morning Star Lodge No. 30, Jefferson Lodge as
Mt. Vernon No. 31, Apollo Lodge No. 32, and Oriental Lodge No. 33,
when Adam Brewer was admitted as the representative of No. 30, Wil-
liam W. Bennett No 31, William Stuart No. 32, and W. F. Walker
No. 33.
The following standing commit ees were appointed :
On Chartered Lodges. — Cabauis (4), Ervin (17), and Hurst (3).
On Petitions and Grievances. — Heyl(15), Ervin (17), and Gayle (28).
On Finances and Accounts. — Dresser (17), Morse (26), and Stuart
(32).
On Foreign Communications. — Walker (33), Crandall (29), and Dunlap
(3).
At Bro. Dunlap's request, he was excused from attending the last
named committee, whereupon the Grand Lodge substituted the Grand
Master in his place.
Bro. McNeill offered the following resolutions, which were tabled:
"Resolved, That in the judgment of this Grand Lodge, there may occur cases
of emergency, in which the degrees of Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and
Master Mason, may be conferred without requiring the petition of the applicant
to lie over the usual time; and that the several Lodges, working under the
jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge, are hereby authorized to exercise their dis-
cretion in reference to such cases, observing, at the same time, the utmost
caution and prudence, so that the ancient regulations of the Order, requiring
petitions for initiation to lie over one month, be not set aside for light or trivial
causes.
"Resolved, That any resolution of this Grand Lodge contrary to the above is
hereby jepealed."
Bro. Walker offered the following resolution, which was laid over for
consideration :
"Resolved, That thfl Lodges under the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge be and
are herebv instructed to require of every candidate initiated, that he perfect
himself in the lecture appertaining to the First Degree, before being passed to the
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 2G3
Second ; and in that of the Second before being raised to the Third ; and in (hat
of the Third Degree within one year from the time of his being rais&l; and that
he satisfy the brethren by examination in open Lodge, of his being so pn-fected ;
and that the Worshipful Master of each Lodge is expected to provide for such
instruction being given in each case as is contemplated by this resolution."
The following preamble and resolution, offered by Bro. Lavely, were
adopted :
"WHEREAS, The constitution of this Most Worshipful Grand Lodge declares
that 'all questions and elections shall be decided by a majority of the votes
given,' and does not authorize the passage of any by-laws inconsistent there-
with ; therefore be it.
"Resolved, That so much of the ICth section of the By-Laws adopted by this
Grand Lodge as requires 'a majority of two-thirds of the votes present' to adopt
any proposed amendment thereto, is inconsistent with, and in violation of, the
constitution of this Most Worshipful Grand Lodge, and is hereby declared to be
null and void."
The following, on motion of Bro. Walker, was adopted:
"Resolved, As the sense of this Grand Lodge, that in conferring the First and
Third Degrees, it is not proper to introduce more than one candidate at one and
the same time."
There seems to have been some difficulty regarding charter fees, for
in the record appears the following, which was laid ov«r for considera-
tion :
"Resolved, That it is the sense of this Grand Lodge, that fifteen dollars only is
required by Sec. 7, of the By-Laws, for a dispensation, and seven dollars only,
additional for a charter, including Grand Secretary's fee, and that in all cases
where a greater sum has been paid, the Grand Treasurer be, and he is hereby
instructed to refund such surplus, and to call on the Grand Secretary for an
adjustment of the same with the Grand Lodge."
The Grand Lodge then adjourned to seven o'clock.
MONDAY EVENING, Oct. 6th, 1845.
The Grand Lodge met pursuant to adjournment. Present, as in the
morning, with the addition of a "great many visitors, residents of Jack-
sonville, together with J. R. Fayerweather, of Des Moines Lodge No. 1,
Dubuque, Iowa."
The Grand Lodge having resumed its labors, Breth. Walker and Stuart
were invited to rehearse the lectures in the first, second and third degrees.
Those of the first and second were rehearsed, but a want of time pre-
vented the recital of those of the third.
" The lectures, as rehearsed by these brethren, were commended by
the Grand Master, and unanimously adopted by the Grand Lodge."
The Grand Lodge was then adjourned to 8 o'clock Tuesday morning.
TUESDAY MORNING, Oct 7th, 1845.
The Grand Lodge met pursuant to adjournment, with the addition of
264 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"JAMES H. RALSTON, S. W., No. 1.
LOUIS WATSON, proxy J. W., No. 1.
\V. J. DEHAVEN, proxy W. M., No. 23.
R. F. KIPPEN BURG, proxy S. W., No 23.
WILLIAM S. HURST, proxy for No. 16."
The Grand Lodge having resumed its labors, Bro. Ralston presented a
petition from Bro. Charles Steinagle, and others, of Quincy, asking for a
dispensation for a new Lodge, to work in the German language, which
was referred to the Committee on Petitions and Grievances
The resolutions offered by Bro. Walker, on the day previous, were
taken up and adopted.
The report of the Grand Treasurer, (which we here give) was pre-
sented and referred to the Committee on Finance :
" P. COFFMAN, Treasurer, <tc., in account with
the Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois : Dr.
"Oct. 5th, 1841, to this amount of cash of Grand Secretary $129 00
" " 1842, " " " " " " 120 00
" " 1843, " " " " " " 318 66
" 10th, 1844, " " " " " " 282 35
Total $819 91
CONTRA.
'Oct. 4th, 1841, by amount paid to Bro. Adams $ 50 00
" 1842, " " " for printing 5075
" " 1843, " " " Bro. Nye, charity fund 25 (0
" " " " " " for printing 17 00
" " 1844, " " " Grand Lecturer 25 00
"Jan. 9th, " " " " Bro. Putnam for printingconstitutions.... 1000
" Bro. Hodge for printing proceedings 4068
"Sept. 3d, " " " " James Adams in full account 11080
" " " " " " Grand Marshal 20 50
" " " " " " Grand Tyler 10 25
'Oct.lOth, " " " " Grand Tyler for services 917
Dec. 4th, " " " " charity to Bro. Semerville 1000
' Jan. 10th, 1845, " " " Geo. Henry, charity 3000
"Feb. llth, " " " " for printing oration 22 00
"Mc'h. 4th, " " " " Henry's bill for work 750
" 10th, " " " " Sweet for printing 49 00
" By balance in my hands 362 2G
"Total $849 91
"All of which is respectfully submitted,
" P. COFFMAN, Grand Treas.
" October 6th 1845."
The Grand Lodge then went into an election of officers, resulting as
follows :
HISTORY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS. 265
"REV. WILLIAM F. WALKER, Chicago, M. W. Grand Master.
NELSON D. MORSE, Henderson, R. W. Dep. Grand Master.
EDGAR BOGARDUS, Shawneetown, R. W. Sr. Grand Warden.
JOHN R. CRANDALL, Pekin, R. W. Jr. Grand Warden."
At this point the election was suspended, in order to take up amend-
ments of by-laws.
The amendment in relation to the striking out of the first section the
word "Jacksonville," and to insert "Alton," and the same amendment
in regard to Peoria were tabled temporarily.
The amendment to strikeout '-Jacksonville" and insert " Quincy,"
and the amendment to the amendment to strike out "Jacksonville"
and insert " Springfield," were put to vote and lost.
The amendment to strike out "Jacksonville" and insert "Spring-
field," was taken up, pending the consideration of which the Grand
Lodge adjourned to two o'clock.
TUESDAY AFTERNOON, Oct. 7, 1845.
The Grand Lodge met pursuant to adjournment. Present : As in the
morning, with the addition of
Carding Jackson, D. G. M., and W. M. No. 18 ; John Bailhache, proxy, J. W.
No. 27.
The Committee on Lodges TJ. D. made an additional report, recom-
mending the granting of a charter to Barry Lodge as No. 34, and recom-
mending that so much of their by-laws as permitted the Lodge to receive
petitions from persons rejected in other Lodges, after a lapse of twelve
months from said rejection, be amended so as to require permission from
the Grand Master or the Lodge that rejected the applicant.
The report was adopted, and Bro. Joseph Jackson. S. W. of No. 34,
admitted as its representative.
The amendment to the by-laws to strike out "Jacksonville" and in-
sert " Springfield," was taken up and lost.
The cities of Alton and Peoria shared the same fate. A motion to
reconsider as regarded Peoria, was also lost.
The Committee on the Grand Master's Address made report as follows :
" The committee to whom was referred so much of the Grand Master's ad-
dress, as relates to certain queries propounded to him, regarding the refusal to
an applicant, by a subordinate Lodge, of a subsequent degree, after such Lodge
has conferred upon him the First or Second, beg leave respectfully to report :
'•That they have had the subject referred to them under consideration, and
would submit as follows:
•' In the opinion of your committee, the views of the M. W. Grand Master are
strictly Masonic and just. The rule of this Grand Lodge requires that every
petition for admission to our Masonic institution, before being acted upon, shall
have been in possession of the subordinate Lodge to which it maybe addressed,
at least one month.
266 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"This rule, adhered to, effectually guards such Lodge against being at any
time surprised into an election before due opportunity shall have been afforded
to investigate the character and standing of the petitioner, and all its members
have been notified of the application. For, if the petition be not presented, as it
should be, at a regular meeting of the Lodge, such a meeting must inevitably
occur between its reception and the balloting, i. e.: Where the regular meetings
are not held less seldom than once a month, which is no where the case, it is
believed, in this jurisdiction; and as every member of a Lodge is supposed to
be in his place at the regular meetings, as required by the constitutions, every
member is thus fully and duly notified of all applications, and warned that his
action will be permitted on them. If, then, when the ballot is ordered in a
certain case, it be found clear in favor of the applicant, he is, and is to be de-
clared to be elected, and entitled to the degrees and mysteries of Freemasonry,
as he shall qualify himself to receive them, unless by after apostacy from duty
he should subject himself to censure and discipline. From the time of the
candidates initiation, every Mason is bound to hold his peace in regard to ob-
jections which might have previously been urged against him. He may, and
should be stayed upon either degree until his proficiency therein qualifies him
for being passed or raised, as the case may be, but not stopped, except for
dereliction in duty, subsequent to his admission to the Order, or to the degree
last taken : in which case it is the duty of the Lodge to see that charges em-
bracing the same are preferred, the matter investigated, and action had in ac-
cordance with the result. In no case may a subordinate Lodge justly or Mason-
icly refuse the subsequent degrees to any one whom it has initiated, for causes
alleged to have existed prior to initiation."
"It is almost needless for your committee to observe that private or personal
feeling should never be allowed to influence in the discharge of the solemn duty
of voting on a question regarding the conferring of degrees. It being the internal
qualifications of a man that recommend him to be a Mason, the inquiry should
always be as to such qualifications, without respect to other and adventitious
circumstances which may have excited feelings or enlisted prejudices. If tried
by the 'Great Light' in our profession, the candidate be found to be of good
report, the duty of all true Masons is clear in the case; and when his prayer has
been once answered affirmatively, and steps have been taken in accordance
therewith, there may, as already stated, in the opinion of your committee,
thereafter be no arrest, but for causes which may have sprung into existence
subsequently.
"Those Lodges which have provided in their by-laws that 'an unanimous
ballot shall be necessary for each degree,' should, in the opinion of your com-
mittee, interpret said provisions in accordance therewith, or alter the same so
as to require a vote instead of a ballot for the second and third degrees, in order
that the cause of objections at any time arising to a candidate, may be at once
arrived at; that if it be for the want of suitable proficiency, it may be removed
by further instruction ; if for dereliction in duty, that charges may be preferred
and an investigation be had.
" Your committee are of the opinion that it would be a wholesome rule for this
Grand Lodge to observe, that no candidate who has once been rejected shall be
balloted for again in the same Lodge, unless there be present all who were
present at the time of his rejection; and not in another Lodge within this juris-
diction in less than twelve months, and not thereafter without permission of the
Grand Master, and of the Lodge which rejected him.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 267
"Such are the views of your committee, sustaining entirely the opinion of the
51. W. Grand Master, embraced in the portion of his address referred to them.
"All of which is respectfully submitted, with the following resolution, which is
recommended for adoption :
"Resolved, That the privileges of our Institution are embraced in the three
degrees of Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason, to which a.
single ballot in favor of a candidate fully entitles him, and the last two of which
he may receive when qualified by suitable proficiency, unless by apostacy from
duty after the degree last taken, "he be proved unworthy.
"W. F. WALKER,
JAMES L. ANDERSON
E. BOGARDUS."
, > Committee."
The report was accepted, and together with the resolution adopted.
This was good law, when the "one ballot system" prevailed, but
now that three separate and distinct elections, or a ballot for each
degree, is the law, the report just quoted would hardly stand as law.
So much of it, however, as states that advancement should not be
denied for causes which existed prior to initiation, has been greatly modi-
fied. An E. A. or F. C. may be denied advancement, and if the Lodge
choose, tried and punished, for offenses committed prior to initiation or
passing, but which did not come to the knowledge of the Lodge until
after the conferring of the degree or degrees. The Lodges, under the
ruling just given, were required to ascertain the objection existing
against the candidate, and take steps accordingly. There has been, in
this, a radical change. An objection now, is as sacred, and is to be kept
as secret, as the ballot, and a mason has no more right to ask the reasons
for the objection than he has to ask who cast a black-ball, or for what cause
it was cast.
After the adoption of this report, the Grand Lodge resumed the elec-
tion of officers :
JAMES L. ANDERSON, Rushville, R. W. Grand Treasurer.
LEVI LUSK, Rushville, R. W. Grand Secretary.
WILLIAM STUART, Chicago, R, W. Grand Orator.
Rev. CHARLES V. KELLY, Ottawa, R. W. Grand Chaplain.
JOHN GREGORY, Jacksonville, W. Grand Tyler.
The Grand Lodge then adjourned to seven o'clock P. M.
TUESDAY EVENING, Oct. 7, 1845.
The Grand Lodge met pursuant to adjournment. The same officers,,
members, and visitors were present as in the morning and afternoon.
Bro. Stuart moved to amend the by-laws by striking out Monday as the
day of meeting, and inserting Wednesday.
An amendment to change the time of meeting from October to June-
was also introduced.
These amendments were laid over for one year.
268 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"The M. W. Grand Master, by request of the Grand Lodge, gave a
lecture on the third degree, and exemplified the same with work."
This record is such as would mislead the reader. The degree was con-
ferred by the Grand Master at the time, Bro. Lusk, and not the Grand
Master elect, as it would seem to imply. In the conferring of this
degree he was assisted by Breth. Walker and Stuart.
The Grand Lodge then adjourned to eight o'clock Wednesday morning.
WEDNESDAY MORNING, Oct. 8, 1845.
The Grand Lodge met pursuant to adjournment. Present : Officers,
members, and visitors as on the day previous.
The Committee on Lodges U. D. made an additional report, recom-
mending the granting of a charter to Morning Star Lodge, as Charleston
Lodge No. 35. The reason for the change of name in this instance,
was owing to the fact that Lodge No. 30 bore the name of Morning Star.
The Committee on Chartered Lodges reported the returns of Lodges
Nos. 3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 13, 14, 15, 17, 19, 23, 25, 26, 27, 28, correct. Those of
N"o. 29 were reported as being irregular.
The Committee on Petitions and Grievances reported favorably upon
the petition of certain brethren at Quincy, asking for a dispensation for
a new Lodge at Quincy, to work in the German language, which dispen-
sation was accordingly granted.
On motion of Bro. McNeill, the Grand Master elect was constituted a
committee to revise the constitution and by-laws of the Grand Lodge,
and report at the next annual communication.
Bro. Lavely offered the following:
"Resolved, That the Constitution of this Grand Lodge be so amended as to
strike out the following: 'No alteration shall take place in this Constitution,
except in the manner following: Every amendment shall be proposed in writ-
ing, at a regular communication of the Grand Lodge, a fair copy of which shall
be sent by the Grand Secretary to each of the subordinate Lodges, who shall
pass or reject the same, and certify their proceedings at the next regular com-
munication, when, if it appear that two-thirds of the subordinate Lodges have
agreed to pass the same, it shall become a part of this Constitution.' "
The object of Bro. Lavely in moving the above alteration, as stated,
was to effect the repeal of the article embraced in his proposed altera-
tion by the next annual commuication of this Grand Lodge, in order
thereby to throw open the constitution for such alterations as the Grand
Lodge might then see fit to adopt on the report of the Committee on Con-
stitution and By-Laws, without that farther delay which would be
necessary, if the proposed alteration was not made, in order to submit
each proposed amendment thereafter to the several subordinate Lodges.
The elected grand officers were then installed.
A bill of $102.25, for jewels, was allowed and ordered paid.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 269
Bro. Brown moved to change the time of meeting from first Monday
in October to the fourth Wednesday in June, which was laid over one
year.
Bro. Stewart (32) offered the following, which was adopted :
"Resolved, That no Lodge under this jurisdiction shall initiate any candidate
for a less sum than $7; nor pass to the degree of Fellow Craft, for a less sum
than $3 ; nor raise to the sublime degree of Master Mason, for a less sum than
$5 ; and that the three degrees shall in no case be conferred upon any one for a
less sum than $15: Provided, That any Lodge may confer the degrees without
fees upon any acknowledged minister of the Gospel ; and in no case shall a de-
gree be conferred by any Lodge upon credit, but the fees must be actually paid
at or before the time of admission to any degree."
An amendment to the by-laws was also introduced, providing that $2
should be paid for each brother raised, and to strike out so much relat-
ing to proxies as required the brother receiving the proxy to be equal
or superior rank to the brother granting the same, and insert the words
" Master Mason."
The following amendment was offered by Bro. Lavely :
"Resolved, That the first section of the by-laws be so amended as to read that
from and after the adoption of this resolution, the Grand Lodge at each annual
communication, shall fix the place of holding its annual communication."
And, as representative of Macon Lodge No. 8, he offered the following:
"Resolved, That the llth section of the by-laws be amended by striking out
Jacksonville and inserting Decatur."
Bro. Carding Jackson moved to amend Sec. 11 of the by-laws by
striking out all after the word " convenient." The portion sought to be
stricken out was that prohibiting Lodges from making public suspen-
sions and expulsions.
These amendments were laid over for one year.
The Committee on Chartered Lodges was directed to investigate a
report that Warsaw Lodge No. 21 had conferred the three degrees upon
certain persons under indictment for crime at the time of such con-
ferring.
The Grand Lodge was then adjourned to 2 o'clock P. M.
WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON, Oct. 8, 1845.
The Grand Lodge met pursuant to adjournment. Present, as in the
morning.
The following appointments were made:
CHARLES H. LARRABEE, Chicago, Deputy Grand Secretary.
WILLIAM LAVELY. Springfield, Senior Grand Deacon.
NATHAN DRESSER, Petersburg, Junior Grand Deacon.
JOHN H. HOLTON, Quincy, Grand Marshal.
JOHN C. HEYL, Peoria, Grand Steward.
SAMUEL H. DAVIS, Peoria, Grand Steward.
WILLIAM IRVLV, Macomb, Grand Sword Bearer.1!
R. F. KIPPINBURG, Beardstown, Grand Pursuivant.
JOHN BARNEY, Chicago, Grand Lecturer.
270 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
The Committee on Chartered Lodges reported the returns of No. 7
•correct.
The following, offered by Bro. Anderson, was adopted:
"Resolved, That the resolution adopted by this Grand Lodge relative to fees
-does not apply to Lodges whose by-laws are already adopted and published, and
who charge in the aggregate for the three degrees more than $15."
The Committee on Chartered Lodges made a supplemental report,
excusing the irregularities in the return of LaFayette Lodge No. 18.
Bro. W. S. Brown (33), moved to reconsider the vote of the day before
to amend the by-laws, by striking out Jacksonville and inserting the
city of Alton, which was carried, when it was moved that the word
Peoria be inserted in the place of Alton.
Bro. Ralston (1), offered the following :
"Strike out all after 'resolved,' and insert the following, to-wit: That the first
section of the by-laws be stricken out and the following inserted : That the
next regular communication of this Grand Lodge shall be held at Peoria, and
thereafter its communications shall be held at such place in the State as the
Grand Lodge may desigdate."
This amendment was adopted. Yeas, 26 ; nays, 4.
The following was offered by Bro. Dunlap, P. G. M., (3), as supple-
mental, and accepted :
" Provided, That the same shall remain not more than one annual communi-
•cation at the same place."
The representative of Barry Lodge was granted leave of absence for
the remainder of the session.
The Grand Master offered the following, which was adopted :
"Resolved, That in the opinion of this Grand Lodge, its certificates are to be
regarded, not as evidence of their bearers being Masons, but simply, if by other
means they shall give satisfaction of their being such, as evidence collateral of
their being in good standing, which evidence may be required or waived at the
pleasure of any Mason, 01 body of Masons to whom they may be preferred; and
that all former resolutions and regulations of this Grand Lodge, which are in-
consistent herewith, be and are hereby repealed."
Bro. Watson (1), offered the following resolution, which was laid
over until the next annual communication:
" Resolved, That the two following sections be added to the by-laws of this
Grand Lodge:
" I. Kach subordinate Lodge shall report to the Grand Lodge, at each annual
communication, all Master Masons that may be under its jurisdiction, and are
not members of any Lodge, and shall pay dues for the same.
" If. Each subordinate Lodge shall collect of all Master Masons that may be
under its jurisdiction, and are not members of any Lodge, the dues its by-laws
require of its members, and shall, at its discretion, suspend from Masonic privi-
leges, all such as neglect or refuse to pay the same: Prooideii, That where two or
more Lodges exist in the same city or county, the oldest Lodge shall have ju-
risdiction.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 271
The Committee on Finance and Accounts reported as follows :
" The Committee on Finances and Accounts beg leave to report : That they
have examined the accounts of Bro. A. C. Dickson, Grand Secretary pro tern.,
and those of the Grand Treasurer, and believe them to be correct.'
'• It appears that there was in the hands of the Grand Treasurer, at the last
annual communication, the sum of $207.58; that he has since that time received
of the Grand Secretary the sum of $282.35; and paid out the sum of $127.67;
leaving in his hands a balance of $3G2.26 of the funds of the Grand Lodge.
The committee further state, that owing to the absence of the Grand Secretary,
they have been unable to obtain access to his books and accounts, and that they
can not therefore report thereon, nor ascertain the total amount of funds belong-
ing to the Grand Lodge now hand.
"In examining the papers of the Grand Treasurer, several ^questions have
occurred in relation to the acts of the Grand Treasurer and Grand Secretary,
which the committee have considered of sufficient importance to bring to the
notice of the Grand Lodge.
"It appears that a resolution was adopted by the Grand Lodge, at Its annual
communication in 1813, requiring the Grand Secretary to procure one hundred
and fifty certificates printed on parchment, and to furnish each subordinate
Lodge such a number as it might order; and that such Lodge be required to
pay 'the Grand Secretary fifty cents each for. said certificates. The committee
do not conceive that this resolution confers on the Grand Secretary any au-
thority to use the funds of the Grand Lodge; they believe, from all the infor-
mation they can obtain, that it was the understanding of the Grand Lodge, at
the time the resolution was adopted, that the fifty cents required to be paid by
the subordinate Lodges for each certificate, would constitute a fund sufficient to
pay the expense of obtaining the blank certificates, and compensate the Grand
Secretary for his trouble. Yet in one of the bills approved by the Grand Sec-
retary, and paid by the Grand Treasurer, is an item of $3.00 for printing certifi-
cates. This the committee believe to be wrong, and the Grand Secretary ought,
they think, to be required to refund the $3.00 to the Grand Treasurer, from the
proceeds of the certificates distributed among the subordinate Lodges.
"Another question that occurred to the committee, was in relation to the au-
thority of the Grand Treasurer to pay money out of the Treasury. The general
rule in subordinate Lodges is, that the Treasurer pay out no money except by
order of the W. Master with the consent of the Lodge. This rule the committee
suppose is, or ought to be, observed in the Grand Lodge ; if any other obtains,
the committee are not aware of it. Yet they find that certain bills have been
presented and paid by the Grand Treasurer, for which they find no order of the
Grand Master, nor any action of the Grand Lodge in the record of its proceed-
ings. The committee do not intend by this remark to question the integrity of
the Grand Treasurer, or to blame him for his acts. The bills alluded to were, as
(hey believe, for labor, or goods had by the Grand Lodge, and which ought to
be paid. Yet they believe that the practice heretofore has been too loose, that
the Grand Treasurer ought to be able to show in every case some order of the
Grand Master, or some action of the Grand Lodge, as his authority for paying
out money. The committee would recommend that the Grand Lodge, before
the close of each communication, make appropriations for the payment of all
sums due from said Lodge, and require the Grand Treasurer to pay out no
money except upon the written order of the Grand Master, or the approval of the
272 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
Grand Lodge, signified by the Grand Secretary's endorsement upon eaeh account
or bill presented to him for payment.
"The committee also discover from an examination of the Grand Treasurer's
account, that the Grand Charity Fund has not been kept distinct from the other
funds of the Grand Lodge. This they believe to be incorrect; and the com-
mittee would recommend that the Grand Treasurer be required to keep the
Grand Charity Fund account distinct from the other accounts of the Grand
Lodge, and that he report annually the receipts and disbursements of each fund
by itself.
"At the last annual communication of the Grand Lodge, a resolution was adopt-
ed requiring the Committee on Finances and Accounts, in connection with the
Grand Secretary, to make a general report of the receipts and expenditures of the
Grand Lodge since its formation, stating the amounts received for dispensa-
tions, charters, and dues, separately and distinctly, and from whom received ;
also the amount expended, and for what purpose. It appears from the report
of that committee, that the resolution was not acted upon ; why, no reasons are
given by that committee. The present Committee on Finances and Accounts
believe that there is a general desire among the members of the Grand Lodge
that the information sought to be obtained by that resolution should yet be
obtained and laid before the Grand Lodge. Your committee would therefore
recommend the adoption of the following resolution :
"Resolved, That the Grand Secretary and Grand Treasurer be required to make,
conjointly, a general report to the Grand Lodge, at its next annual communica-
tion, of afl the receipts and expenditures of the Grand Lodge since its formation,
stating the amounts received for dispensations, charters, dues, and contribu-
tions to the Grand Charity Fund, separately and distinctly, and from whom re-
ceived; also, the amount expended, for what purpose, and to whom paid."
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
" NATHAN DRESSER, •)
NELSON D. MORSE, ^Committee."
WILLIAM STUART. J
The Grand Lodge was then adjourned to 8 o'clock Thursday morning.
THURSDAY MOUSING, Oct. 9, 1845.
The Grand Lodge met pursuant to adjournment. Present, as on the
preceding day.
The Committee on Foreign Correspondence reported as follows:
" To the Mont Worshipful, the Grand Lodge of Illinois :
"The Committee on Foreign Correspondence beg leave respectfully to report:
That since the last annual communication of this Grand Lodge, documents
have been received from the Grand Lodges of Maine, New Hampshire, Con-
necticut, Maryland, Mississippi, Florida, Louisiana, Arkansas, Missouri, Texas,
Iowa, Wisconsin, Indiana, and Michigan; together with a beautiful copy of elo-
quent Masonic addresses, by P. G. M. Joseph R. Chandler, from the Grand Lodge
of Pennsylvania, for which especial thanks are due.
"It is regretted by your committee, that the proceedings of other Grand
Lodges have not been received ; those of the Grand Lodge of New York may
be particularly mentioned, whose absence from our files has occasioned, on
many distinct accounts, especial regret. It has come to be regarded as well
nigh the right of each Grand Lodge, to be put in possession of the doings of
HISTOKY OF MASOXRY IX ILLINOIS. 273
sigter Grand Lodges, as it confessedly is of subordinate Lodges to be furnished
with the proceedings of the particular Grand Lodge under whose authority they
severally convene. In no other way, indeed, than by such an interchange of
proceedings, can the manifold evils consequent upon the isolation and relative
independence, in which our several Grand Lodges at present are, be in any
tolerable degree mitigated or overcome. Until provision be made for uniting all
under one general head, whose office it shall be to inform, direct, and quicken
the various members, it is hoped that a freer interchange of communication will
be made between the several Grand Lodges.
" In the various documents referred to your committee, are presented mat-
ters of greatest interest and importance to the whole Fraternity. All give evi-
dence that increased attention is everywhere paid to the Masonic Institution;
that its principles are rapidly becoming more widely diffused ; its landmarks
more thoroughly studied and understood; its spirit more sedulously culti-
vated, and more consistently exemplified; whilst, on all sides, its borders are
extending, by the admission of approved candidates within its fold. The dark
cloud of oppression and persecution has rolled away from above it, and revealed
n brighter and more cheering light than any in which, for long years, the Insti-
tution has been permitted to rejoice. Its beautiful morality is now everywhere
earnestly sought to be developed; and it shines forth conspicuously, on all
sides, comparatively unobscured by abuses, in such works of faith and labors of
love as can not fail to silence gainsayers, by the practicable and incontrovert-
ible proof thus exhibited, that the foundation of our ancient Masonic Institu-
tion, is " upon the holy. hills," — that it is on truth and goodness. Yery excellent
things, therefore, must be spoken of her.
" Upon the true standard of Masonic morality, the Holy Scriptures — the great
light in Masonry — such expression has been made by many Grand Lodges, as
to show to those who are within, and convince those who are without, that it is
not the lower nature of man alone that the Masonic Institution legitimately re-
gards; but that she takes cognizance, also, of the immortal part, by imposing,
not in name only, but in deed, and in truth, that blessed book, as the divinely
authentic rule and guide of a Mason's faith.
"Through the Grand Lodge of Indiana, we have been furnished the testimony
of the Grand Lodge of Ohio on this subject, which your committee deem too
eloquent, just and beautiful, not to be here presented. The want of the pro-
ceedings of the Grand Lodge of Ohio, furnishing this testimony directly, is sin-
cerely deplored as a loss. It is hoped we shall not be thought presuming, if we
adduce it from the source to which acknowledgemenl is made. It proceeds
thus, in the address of the Grand Master, M. W. Wm. B. Thrall :
" ' I deem it not inappropriate, in this connection, to bring to the notice of the
Grand Lodge, a question of authority and discipline, mooted in a subordinate
Lodge, and on which the opinion of the Grand Master, as the representative of
this body during its interval of recess, was solicited. It was asked l>y a respect-
able Lodge, whether "the denying the divine authenticity of the Holy Bible be
an offence against the Institution of Masonry; and if so, what are the preroga-
tives of the Lodge, in such cases ?" While it is true that Masonry is not sectarian
in its character, and that the established rules and regulations of our Grand
Lodge positively inhibit all religious tests, as a prerequisite to initiation, save
only the acknowledgment of " a steadfast belief in the existence and perfections
of Deitv,'' it is equally true that, were it possible to wrest from the " first great
—18
274 HISTOEY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
/
light" in Masonry its attribute of divine authenticity, the very act would over-
whelm the Order with a visible and tangible darkness, equalled only by that which
existed ere "the Spirit of God moved upon the lace of the waters." It is impos-
sible to despoil our great moral and Masonic Trestle-Board of its distinctive
characteristic, without, at the same time, rifling the work of our Lodges, our
charges and our lectures, of every conservative and life-giving principle. If the
Bible be not indeed an emanation from Deity, then is Freemasonry an empty
cheat, and those who minister at her altars accessories to fraud and vile delusion.
True, we have, among us.no Lodges exclusively Christian; for the reason that
Masonry dates anterior to the Christian era; and because her charity is suffi-
ciently expansive to embrace within its ample folds, in fraternal unison, the
good and true of whatever name or nation. While, therefore, all Christian Ma-
sons dedicate their Lodges to those two eminent and sainted Christian patrons,
who are always represented in every regular and well directed Lodge by most
attractive and peculiar hieroglyphics, our Jewish brethren may, at the same
time, without let or hindrance, and without the most remote cause of offence to
any, still commemorate in their Lodges, him whose name is the synonym of wis-
dom, and whose virtues are embalmed aliue in the hearts of all good Masons,
whether Christians or the lineal descendants of the twelve tribes of Israel. But,
surely, it could not have been the purpose of those great and good men of old,
in laying thus broad the foundations of our Order, to provide in it a eovei t for
the deriding infidel, or an asylum for the dissembling hypocrite. And if by any
means, such have found their way into our midst, it is the first duty of the
Lodge so invaded, "by well doing to put to silence the ignorance of foolish men ;"
and to teach them that, though free, they may not " use their liberty for a cloak
of licentiousness." And if, thus admonished, they refuse to be restrained, let
them be regarded as " walking disorderly, and not after the tradition they have
received of us. And, if any man obey not our word, note that man. and have
no company with him, that he may be ashamed." '
'•Through a committee to whom was referred this portion of the M. W. Grand
Master's address, the Grand Lodge thus sustained the position therein assumed :
" 'After looking at the foundations on which all our work is constructed, and
contemplating the teachings of Masonry in her Lectures, Charges, &c., your
committee can come to but one conclusion on the subject, viz.: that the Holy
Bible is the great standard of truth and duty in Masonry, and, consequently,
that a humble and sincere acknowledgment of its divine origin is indispens-
able, in the very nature of the case, on the part of all who come to seek or dis-
pense light among us.
"'It is one of the oldest requisitions of the Fraternity that no regular and
well governed Lodge can be without its Bible. The Bible is held up to the can-
didate on his initiation as the first great light in Masonry. He is told that it is
the inestimable gift of God to Man. His onward pathway, in its entire extent, is
lighted up by its blessed precepts. The faith, the hope, the charity, in which he
is admonished to abound, is the faith, the hope, the charity of the Bible. The
star which shines from the center of one of the three ornaments of the Lodge, i.s
the star which appeared to guide the wise men in the East to the place of the
Saviour's nativity. The two eminent patrons of the Order, to whom Christian
Masons dedicate their Lodges, are the Sts. John of the Bible, the precepts of
which, they present as a wall of defence round about every brother, within which
he may walk securely and never materially err. No station in the Lodge is too
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 275
high for the reach of the duties which the Bible enjoins. The Worshipful Master
must humbly bow to its authority. On him, as he is about to enter upon his
arduous labors, is laid the obligation, weighty above all others, of a diligent ob-
servance of the Holy Scriptures, which, he is instructed, is to be a rule and a guide
to his faith. And, when sorrowing brethren gather around the final resting
place of the departed, they mourn not as those who are without hope; the sprig
of acacia tells of an ever verdant and bright land beyond the grave. The Lion
of the tribe of Judah has vanquished the foe, and hope and consolation are im-
parted by the thoughts of that life and immortality which the Bible, and the Bible
only, has brought to light.
'"These are but few of the many evidences that might be presented to show
how essential is the Bible to the existence of Masonry. What then is Masonry
without the Bible — the Bible acknowledged in the truth of its divine inspira-
tion? It is the casket without the jewel. It is the body without the soul. It
is the world without the sun ; and what might be its value despoiled of this, its
richest treasure and brightest ornament, would not be worth the trouble of a
conjecture.
"'Your committee, in their search for grounds on which to sustain an opposite
opinion, have found nothing meriting that name, unless it be a single Regula-
tion ; the language of which is, "that no religious test shall be required of any
applicant for the benefits of Masonry, other than a steadfast belief in the exist-
ence and perfections of Deity." In regard to this provision, it is respectfully
submitted, whether a proper belief in [the existence and perfections of Deity
does not of necessity imply a belief in the divine authenticity of the Bible,
since from that book we derive the only intelligent and satisfactory knowledge
of Deity; and whether, therefore, said clause was not predicated upon this hy-
pothesis.'
"'This,' say our brethren of Indiana, 'ought to settle all controversy, if ever
any existed among Masons on this subject.' Your committee are of the same
opinion; and would be happy to have this Grand Lodge, by formal action,
place herself unequivocally upon this high, but truly Masonic ground.
" In view of such principles, it can excite |no surprise that the Grand Lodge
of Indiana expressed its entire disapprobation of the course of the Grand Lodge
of Texas, in working in Lodge on the Sabbath day, and that your committee
concur in such disapprobation, and would extend the same to a similar practice
prevailing among the Lodges in New Orleans.
" The subject of the pre-requisite physical and mental qualifications of candi-
dates for initiation has been widely discussed within the past year.
"The views of the Deputy Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Mississippi,
R. VV. Harvey W. Walter, upon this subject, are so in harmony with those enter-
tained by your committee, that leave is begged to present them at length. The
following question elicited the expression intended to be submitted :
"'Would the loss of either of the three senses, feeling, seeing, or hearing, biir
a candidate from the degrees, or would the loss of sight prevent his initiation y
'• ' I think, brethren,' is the reply, ' this question may be stript of all difficulties,
by reference to the character of our work as Masons. Originally, it was strictly
operative, and more attention was paid to the physical than mental condition of
the candidate. In reference to this point, the old constitutions provide, that,
"every candidate for the mysteries of Masonry shall be upright in body, not
deformed or dismembered at the time of making, but of hale and entire limbs."
276 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
The Grand Lodge of Kentucky has adopted a rule more congenial to the present
spirit of Masonry, where it dec-lares, that, "if the deformity of a candidate for
initiation is not such as to prevent him from being instructed in the arts and
mysteries of Freemasonry, his admission will not be an infringement upon the
landmarks, but will be perfectly consistent with the spirit of our Institution."
Such, I conceive, will also be the opinion of every intelligent Mason, who re-
flects upon the great change which has taken-place in the character of our work
within the last two centuries. Physical labor has been superseded by men-
tal action ; and the man who retains these external senses, and is possessed of
a good mental capacity, but of a weak and emaciated or even maimed body,
would now be considered an eligible candidate, whereas he would formerly have
been rejected, — in other words, Masonry now requires of its votaries more of
mind, and less of flesh and form, than it originally did. I think, brethren, that
we may safely conclude that, a loss or partial deprivation of those physical organs
which minister ALONE to the action of the BODY, do not disqualify, — but that the loss
of those upon ivhich the MIND depends for its ideas of external objects, certainly would.
We have then only to determine to which of these classes the eye, the ear, and
the nerves belong, to settle this difficulty. I can not conceive how the mind
could be very sanitive, deprived of all these, or how it could attain perfection
with the loss of either of the first two. They are all its obedient slaves, and
minister to it all the information upon which it depends for vigorous or healthy
action. They are called, by way of eminence, the three Masonic senses, for rea-
sons that will readily suggest themselves to the mind of every brother familiar
with our work. Indeed, brethren, I can not conceive how a person deprived of
them, or either of them, would efficiently discharge the duties, or perform the
labor required at his hands. Intricate and embarrassing as the subject confess-
edly is, I have no doubt but that calm and serious reflection will enable you to
adjudicate it correctly.'
"The Grand Lodge of Wisconsin had embodied nearly the same views, and
quite the same principles, in her constitution, some time previous. 'By the
ancient regulations,' says the article, 'the physical deformity of an individual
operates as a bar to his admission into the Fraternity; but in view of the fact
that this regulation was adopted for the government of the Craft at a period when
they united the character of operative with that of speculative Masons, this Grand
Lodge, in common, it is believed, with most of her sister Grand Lodges in this
country and in Europe, has authorized such a construction of the regulation as
that, where the deformity does not amount to an inability honestly to acquire
the means of subsistence, it constitutes no hindrance to initiation.'
"Your committee learn from the Committee on Correspondence of the Grand
Lodge of Maryland, that the Grand Lodge of Alabama has adopted as a resolu-
tion, 'That being maimed, as by the loss of a leg or an arm, does not disqualify
a man from receiving the degrees in Masonry, when there is no other objection
except that of being maimed.' Upon which the committee remarks:
"'This has been, and still is, a matter of controversy among the Fraternity,
and is one which the Grand Lodges should decide, so that uniformity of practice
may prevail among the Lodges. This question affords arguments worthy of
consideration for and against justifying the difference of opinion prevailing
among the Fraternity, and from this division your committee are not exempt.
In opposition to this resolution of the Grand Lodge of Alabama, we have an
ancient regulation couched in language positive and unequivocal. In answer
to this objection, or as a reason why it should not be rigidly observed, it is, and
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 277
may with force be urged, that a subsequent part of the same regulation, couched
in language equally clear and unequivocal, is not observed, nor has its observance
been advocated within our knowledge — that is, to keep an apprentice seven years.
Many more reasons might be urged against this law, did the nature of this report
admit of such discussion. Your committee will merely give the general decla-
ration, that the philanthropic principles inculcated by the Institution are at
variance, and seem to forbid the rigid observance of this rule. They are not
unanimous in the opinion that the language of the Alabama resolution is fully
admissable; although Masonry has assumed the speculative character, they are
not certain that the operative should be entirely discarded.'
" Your committee will take leave of this subject by repeating that their views
are in coincidence with those which have, been thus adduced, and notifying
that they intend to submit a resolution embracing the same, which was adopted
by the Grand Lodge of Mississippi, and ask for its adoption by this Grand Lodge.
"The qualifications of citizenship on the part of applicants in the place in
which their application for admission into the Institution is made, is another
topic which has lately undergone a most free and thorough discussion. A sin-
gular disregard of rights of jurisdiction, which, from the very nature of things,
must be considered as well nigh inherent in each particular Grand Lodge, which
are recognized in the superior Masonic bodies, and which analogy, derived from
civil usage, should be regarded as determining past controversy, has prevailed
in certain quarters, and given rise to such complaints as have elicited a very
general expression on this subject. Among the Grand Lodges which have been
forward in t>uch expression, and whose decisions are believed to be eminently
Masonic and just, those of New Hampshire, Maryland, Arkansas and Indiana,
have been noticed with peculiar pleasure.
"The Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Maryland, M. W. Charles Oilman,
brought the subject to the notice of his Grand Lodge as follows:
'"A practice has obtained among many Lodges in different parts of the country
of admitting temporary residents to the Order, and that, too, without inquiring
into the character of the applicants, further than it may happen to be known at
the place of such temporary residence. And it is believed that some of our own
Lodges have been indiscreet in this same particular. The practice is exceed-
ingly reprehensible, and ought to be discontinued. In the first place, if the
applicant be worthy of the distinction, that fact can be no where so well known as
at the place of his permanent abode; and in the next place, the brethren at the
place where the new made Mason is to enjoy this special privilege, should cer-
tainly be consulted whether they are willing to accept him as an associate, whilst
they are also entitled to the emoluments arising from the conferring of the de-
grees. For the sake of that universal harmony which we all profess to seek,
and to set an example to our brethren abroad, I would earnestly recommend that
you pass an order forbidding the practice in all the Lodges under this jurisdic-
tion; and at the same time, that you invite the co-operation of our sister Grand
Lodges in the measure.'
"This just and earnest recommendation was so heeded as to call forth a re-
enforcement of the same views by the Committee on Correspondence.
"'Harmony,' reported that committee, 'is essential to the well being and
perpetuity of our Institution, and it can not be but that complaints, when well
founded, will destroy this essential constituent of Masonry. Every Masonic
act should tend to strengthen the bands of brotherly love, and have this for its
primary object. Should the practices above named be countenanced or passed
278 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
over without notice, they will be continued— ill feeling will be engendered,
instead of brotherly love: discord, jealousy, and distrust will take the place of
peace and unity; harmony will be unknown among us for lack of wisdom;
strength and beauty will leave our walls to be replaced by chaos. It becomes us
to practice the precepts taught us by the square, level, and plumb; to guard in
:ill kindness, yet firmly, our own rights, and at the same time the rights of our
brethren — we should not invade their territory, nor they ours. The several
Grand Lodges, as the conservators of the rights and privileges of their subordi-
nate Lodges, should act energetically and decidedly in this matter.'
"The Grand Lodge confirmed the views of the Grand Master and of its com-
mittee by correspondent action.
"Upon the same subject, the Committee on Correspondence of the Grand
Lodge of Arkansas submitted as follows:
•"In regard to Grand Lodge jurisdiction, your committee regret to see so
many instances of its violation, with a high degree of disrespect. Of the many
instances, your committee will refer to only one. A citizen of this State, residing
in the vicinity of Little Rock, petitioned "Western Star Lodge" for initiation,
and was rejected. Soon after he made a visit to North Alabama, and in a few
weeks returned, having received the three degrees in a Lodge under the juris-
diction of the Grand Lodge of that State. Under ordinary circumstances this vio-
lation would not perhaps have been noticed; but the individual alluded to having
since been excluded from the benefits of our Order, admonishes your committee
of the necessity of suggesting some mode of arrangement by which the Craft
may be protected from the admission of unworthy members— and who are more
capable of judging of the worth and character of applicants than the brethren
residing in the vicinity of the applicant, who are his neighbors and acquaint-
ances?'
"The ground thus assumed by our brethren of Maryland and Arkansas is
.Masonic;, to say the least. They rest the claim for respect for the jurisdiction
of a Grand Lodge, in the regard under consideration, by sister Grand Lodges
and their subordinates, upon its necessity to the preservation of that 'harmony'
which is at once the 'beauty and strength' of our 'Ancient Masonic Institu-
tion;' and it were fair to presume that such a plea will avail to secure the end
desired. Still, your committee would proceed somewhat further, deeming that
they may, perhaps, in some degree, contribute to a cause of real magnitude and
importance.
" To your committee it seems clear that, under our circumstances, the very
notion of Grand Lodge jurisdiction, in any sense, carries with it that of a specific
territory within which such jurisdiction may be exercised. What, indeed,
signifies the title by which this or that particular Grand Lodge is designated ?
What is denoted by 'The Grand Lodge of Maryland,' 'The Grand Lodge of New
York,' 'The Grand Lodge of Ohio,' 'The Grand Lodge of Wisconsin.' What,
but that each is a Grand Lodge for the State whose name distinguishes it '! Is
not this idea inherent in every such organization? It is submitted, whether,
when a Grand Lodge is organized, it be not emphatically and expressly to take
cognizance of the interests of Freemasonry in a given district — to exercise ju-
risdiction in the State or Territory in which it is formed, and whose name it
assumes. If this be not so. then is each Grand Lodge an organization having a
name simply to denote its locality, with powers at large, and the free right to
exercise its functions in every Territory, State, county, city, town, or village
HISTORY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS. 279
throughout the land, without let or hindrance from opposing principle, and
candidates in any community are, by consequence, free to choose the superior
body, under whose cognizance they will severally come. Each particular com-
munity might thus have established, and in exercise, within it, several concur-
rent Masonic governments, as many as there are or may be Grand Lodges in the
Union, or in the world. And what, in this case, would be the limit for the forma
tion of Grand Lodges? If aGrand Lodge, when formed, be not for a specific Slate
or Territory, what shall prevent the formation of an indefinite number of Grand
Lodges; as many as fancy or caprice may suggest? And thus we should be
thrown back upon the early principle of the independence of each particular
Lodge, derived through the inherent rights vested in the Fraternity at large, to
meet, act, and work, as to them should seem good and proper within the limits
of the 'Ancient Charges*.'
" This, then is the ultimate ground to be rechosen; or we must stand firmly
by the principle of confederation, for which it has been long abandoned. There
is, there can be, no middle way; either the principle of confederation, which we
have professedly chosen, must be rigidly adhered to, or we must go back upon
the ancient ground, long since practically yielded. This, it is believed, is no-
where meditated; and if it were, would be found impracticable. By the princi-
ple we have professed to adopt, must we therefore be governed; by this princi-
ple interpreted in its application, by the very notion of a Grand Lodge, by the
name it bears, by practical results, by eccelesiastical, civil, and all sorts of usage,
and by common sense — by this principle, in the length of it, and in the breadth
of it, do your committee recommend that this Grand Lodge take her stand, and
insist that her territorial jurisdiction is co-extensive with the civil jurisdiction
of the State of Illinois ; beyond which, in any State or Territory in which there
may be a Grand Lodge established, she will not exercise her powers or privileges;
within which, she will not patiently endure that another Grand Lodge shall
establish, exercise, and maintain jurisdiction.
" In this, there would be a concurrence with our brethren of Indiana, who
'think it most consonant with the principles of our Order that applications for
membership should be made to the Lodge nearest to the residence of the ap-
plicant, and, so far as the Lodges of different Slates are concerned, in this
question, that the State line should be the boundary of their jurisdiction;' and,
with those of Ohio, in addition to the Grand Lodges before noticed, as we learn
through the Grand Lodge of Maryland : 'A gentleman residing in the city of
Cincinnati became a petitioner to Lafayette Lodge, of that city, for initiation
into the mysteries of Freemasonry; before the constitutional time for action on
his petition had arrived, lie visited New York city, and was there initiated, passed
and raised to the S. degree of Master Mason. On his return home, he attempted
to visit Lafayette Lodge as a M. M., and was refused admittance on the ground
that he did not receive his degrees legally. The subject was submitted to the
Grand Lodge, who, while they justly censure this invasion of their jurisdiction,
decide that persons residing under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Ohio, who
wilfully and knowingly obtain the degrees of Masonry in a foreign jurisdiction, shall
not be i egardcd as Masons : if, however, they pursue this course ignorantly, and
the person is worthy, he shall be "recognized as a brother.'"
"The brethren of Maryland, in support of this decision, rise to the high ground
assumed by your committee, and say: 'If from selfish motives, from distrust
*An example of this kind is the Lodge of Antiquity, in London.
280 HISTORY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS
of his acceptance, or other cause, originating with and existing in himself, an
individual, wilfully and knowingly, travel into foreign jurisdiction and takes
the Masonic degree*, they believe that "clandestine" is stamped in legible char-
acters on the transaction; and that he has not regularly received the decree*,
and, therefore, is not entitled to recognition.' And as to 'the Lodge conferring
the degrees," say they, it 'does, or should know the law, any violation of which
i-» irregular and a nullity.' If this proceeding is regular, why may not the Lodge
:ie State line, as did \Vhite«ide Lodge, and there make him a Mr son?
The Lodge would, it is perfumed, be considered clandestine, as also its acu>.
'• If this opinion, and the general views presented by your committee, be cor-
rect, how stands it between us and the Grand Lodge of Wiscons-in? The facts
hare come to the knowledge of your committee, that that Grand Lodge has
assented to a proposal to take 'Far West Lodge,' of Galena, in this State, under
her jurisdiction — that Lodge having been under the jurisdiction of the Grand
Lodge of Missouri, as were other of the Lodges in this State, until the formation
of this Grand Lodge — and that the 31. W. Grand Master of that Grand Lodjre lias
granted a dispensation to certain Masons residing in Elizabeth, in this State, to
form and open a Lodge at that place. It is submitted, whether the latter be not
an infraction of the rights of a sister Grand Lodge without a parallel in the history
of Freemasonry in this country; and too great to be borne without an exceed-
ing trial of the bonds of our covenant, — a trial which, if persisted in. will be
likely to weaken the ties by which we are now held in one, if not to make »n
utter schism between us. It is believed, that by nothing in the recorded annal*
of our Institution can that step be justified; by nothing in its domestic or private
teachings can this Grand Lodge be bound to tolerate an abuse so fraught with
mischief to the entire family of Freemasons.
•• The Freemason's logic, it is thought by your committee, should hare led the
(.rand Lodge of Wisconsin to say to 'Far west Ixxlge,' "There is a Grand Lodge
in Illinois; yon are within its jurisdiction; go to that body and own and fulfill
your allegiance.' All special pleadings it should hare caused to have been met
by a declaration of the rights of this Grand Lodge, and of the necessity of their
observance to the preservation of that harmony and comity which should dis-
tinguish two bodies so peculiarly allied. But the answer really made to the ap-
plication was as follows :
"• Resoftred, That a charter be issued to the "Far West Lodge." of Galena, under
and by the name of the "Galena Lodge," as prayed for. That the said charter be
issued with it.» date and number blank, and kept by the Grand Secretary of this
Lodge, until the said "Far West Lodge" ."hall place in the hands of the Grand
Secretary the proper legal evidence of its demission fix m the Grand Lodge of
Missouri: when he shall date, number, and deliver said charter to raid Lodge,
from and after which time, if accepted by the -Galena Lodge,*" it shall be taken
and remain under the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge.
" ' Revolted, That no other fee shall be demanded for said charter than the
regular fees of the Grand Secretary.'
^ Your committee recommend that this Grand Lodge enter its protest to these
banns, and ask at the hands of our brethren in Wisconsin that, in this particu-
lar, they will do as they would be done by. It is believed that such remon-
strance would be beard, and such request granted. The intelligence, the
well known Masonic character and standing of our brethren in Wisconsin, are
* sufficient guarantee for this. The magnitude of his departure from ri>rht
principle and right practice r-ould not hare been realized by the M. W. Grand
Master of the Grand Lodge of Wisconsin when be granted the dispensation to
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 281
Elizabeth : nor that of his Grand Lodge, when Galena was bidden a cordi.il wel-
e.ime within her jurisdiction.
" Blame is not, therefore, east as though the faults were intentional. In the
one cnte. and in the other, your committee alike see M zeal lor the Institution
prompting the excesses eoniplained of. Still, the errors are no less, and no less
imperiously call for correction. If in this we be not heard, shall the Lodge at
Kli/.aheth be considered MS rlantltstinf .' Shall "l-'ar West Lodge," at Galena, be
considered the same? And then, how shall the Grand L«dge of \Visconsinbe
considered, through which it has come to pa«s that this (.rand Lodge is refused
to be owned and submitted to at those two points within her jurisdiction ? Must
the end be, schism, and a cessation of communion ?
"In view of what has been thus presented on this subject, your committee
would express the ardent hope, that this Grand Lodge will abide within the
•landmarks,' whicli 'our fathers,' in the State, have set; and require the qualifi-
cation of citi/enship. on the part of all who are admitted into the Institution
within her jurisdiction, and refuse Masonic intercourse to every citizen of this
s-.-i'c. who shall he made a Mason in contravention to these principles.
" In regard to the work of Lodges, great interest is every where felt and ex-
pressed, and elt'orts are making universally to secure propriety, uniformity, and
harmony therein. Various are the modes proposed to accomplish these most
desirable ends. Prominent among them, is that <>f a system of triennial con-
ventions of representatives from the several Grand Lodges in the 1'nion, tobe
holden at some accessible point, under certain rules and restrictions which
have been already submitted.
"To this plan your committee entertain a decided aversion. They have too
distinctly in remembrance the convention at Baltimore, with all its bitter fruits,
— the jealousie^, the disputing*, the rancors, and the schisms which have been
its consequent, — to hope for anything better from a repetition of the same means.
Not that your committee fail to recognize much good that has accrued to a large
port ion of the Craft through the instrumentality of the convention to which refer-
ence is now made. It is thankfully admitted, that, directly and indirectly, it
has wrought for us much that was desirable; more, it is belitved, indirectly
than otherwise: and, on the principle that the wrath of man is often turned to
the help and praise of that which is good. It must be conceded, that on the.
whole, it has been quite ctlective in directing the attention of the Fraternity
generally to the subjects of propriety, uniformity and harmony in the work: and
in prompting desire and effort with regard to these important ends. Hut that
anything has been detcrminately settled by it. or discrepancies in any consid-
erable degree diminished, cannot he justly claimed; for a fair observation has
guen abundant evidence that the sum total of discrepancies and disagreements
in work, on all si.i. . MhMOTWT existed among us. That they are
the same is not asserted : but as numerous. They now exist under greatly im-
proved circumstances; for the desire and effort which have been elicited to
secure uniformity and harmony she promise of happy results eventually. In
the eomliet lor these ends at present, appeal to thederisions at Baltimore is well
nigh useless: for, lirst, where those decisions can he ascertained, they are re-
garded as wanting in authority; and. second, because of the confessed difficulty
<>f ascertaining what was agreed upon at Baltimore. Owing to the varied asser-
tions of those who have been looked to as reporters of the doings of that con-
vention, and the disagreements among them, little satisfaction can be obtained
—10
282 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS
regarding them; and so, of necessity, private judgment must finally determine
every question at issue. And thus, it is believed by your committee, will it ever
be with regard to any and every such plan for attaining the ends sought to be
answered by means of conventions. Moreover, the conventional system, of
necessity, almost, permits the several Grand Lodges to be so independent of it
and of one another as to leave them open to all the evils of jealousy ; and es-
pecially to the curse of a striving on the part of one or more for the mastery in
all things, that by some means pre-eminence may be obtained. It can not have
escaped the observation of the most casual observer, that wealth, with associa.
tions as with individuals, is regarded as power; and, in the one case as in the
other, tends to beget haughtiness and love of domination. Where these shall
have become combined in a Grand Lodge, it will speedily put itself forward as
chief or head, claim to be the exponent of principles, the center of unity, the
organ of correspondence, and the body in whose adjudications there should be
universal acquiescence. It will expect its dictum to be obeyed, and its super-
cilious bearing to overawe and overmaster. The tone already observed in
certain quarters warns your committee, and causes them to desire a speedy
exchange of isolation and independence for a confederacy under one general
Masonic government.
"Your committee desire not to conceal, that the workings of the General Grand
Masonic bodies already in existence in the United States, have come before them
in this connection, and delighted them with the agreeable contrast which they
have presented to all that is here set forth.
"'To your committee, therefore, it appears, that the organization of some
similar tribunal, with carefully guarded powers — having authority to decide
upjn and provide for the means of instruction in the mystic wort and ceremo-
nies of Masonry— is probably the best, if not the only, means, now remaining to
us, whereby the necessary and indispensable uniformity among us can be main-
tained and perpetuated ; whereby our mystic rites and universal language may
be freed from hurtful interpretations, and be continued to us, and ours, pure
and uncontaminated. To your committee, it is obvious, that unless a supreme
authority shall be established, to whose decision questions respecting our
mysteries and traditions, our constitutions and our principles, may be referred
and whose final judgment shall be obligatory upon all, the greatest and most
ruinous disparity must continue to prevail. One form will be adopted and taught
here— another, and different one, there ; each refusing to yield to either of those
differing from him— each claiming to "possess the true light," will set forth, and
contend for his long cherished system; and thus, at no distant period, we shall
hear of, not only ''York and English— French and Scotch rites," but of New
England Masonry, Missouri Masonry, and Pennsylvania Masonry ; of Kentucky,
Ohio, and Virginia "rites" — thus rendering that which should be now, and which
might be continued to us and our descendants, for all time to come, one in form
and precisely similar in expression, as variant in both as are the features of those
that constitute the several Grand Lodges. It is time that we should surrender
our claim to absolute infallibility, and constitute one supreme power, with
adequate authority to decide for all. This, doubtless, constituted a principle
reason for the organization of the two Grand Lodges of England, and was after-
wards the cause of merging those into one Grand Lodge.'
"In short, the opinion is, that this Grand Lodge should not contribute towards
the proposed system of triennial conventions, but follow out to a consistant re-
HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 283
Kult the able argument of our brethren of Missouri, quoted above at such length,
by doing what it mny to secure the formation of a General Grand Lodge, on
principles similar to those on which the General Grand Chapter and the General
Grand Encampment of the United States are based, to exercise powers and to
perform offices relative to Ancient Craft Masonry, corresponding with those ex-
ercised and pei formed by those General Grand Bodies with regard to their
respective subordinate bodies. This General Grand Lodge would be the organ
of foreign correspondence, the body to be represented and to receive representa-
tives, to correct abuses and irregularities, to hear and determine appeals, and to
provide for the supply of all the wants of the several departments of the Institu-
tution. It 'appears, therefore, to be imperiously demanded, not merely for the
welfare of the Craft, but for the preservation of our very existence, as a Fraterni-
ty.' It is a measure fraught with no horror, in the minds of your committee;
would be submitted to most cheerfully, and its good, it is believed, would large-
ly overbalance all the evil that can be anticipated to result from it.
" The M. W. Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Maryland has been before
us in the expression of similar views ; and so clearly and ably that your com-
mittee cannot forbear to quote him :
" 'Much has been said within the last few years upon the subject of establish-
ing a General Grand Lodge for the United States. And although it is well known
that there are those who think such a measure unnecessary and inexpedient,
yet it is equally well known that many distinguished Masons, in different parts
of the country, favor the scheme, and would be glad to see it perfected. From
indications, scarcely to be mistaken, it is doubtful whether the contemplated
meeting of a convention of Grand Lodges at Winchester, in May next, will ever
be held. Yet it seems desirable that there should be a body, with limited juris-
diction, deriving its existence from the several Grand Lodges, which, meeting
periodically, might satisfactorily determine matters of general policy, and pre-
vent innovation upon the ancient usages of the Order. This body, having
original jurisdiction over all such territory as is now occupied by Grand Lodges,
would grant dispensations and charters for new Lodges, and thereby prevent all
collision amongst Lodges, otherwise, perhaps, deriving their existence from
different Grand Lodges. I would suggest for your consideration, whether it
would not be judicious to take some action on this subject; and, if your wisdom
shall advise the measure, that you appoint a time and place for the meeting of
delegates, to be by you appointed: providing, a majority of the Grand Lodges of
the different States shall concur in the measure, and appoint delegates. In this
way the General Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons for the United States was
formed in 1798, which, since that time, has held its regular meetings, and from
which much good to the Order has been derived. And I have yet to learn th«t
any grand or subordinate chapter under its jurisdiction has had cause to com-
plain of injury, or of usurpation of power not delegated to it in the outset. The
next triennial meeting of the General Grand Chapter and General Grand Kn-
campment for the United States will be held in the city of Columbus, in the
State of Ohio, on the second Tuesday in September, 1847; at which time, should
the proposed measure meet your approbation, and that of other Grand Lodges,
a convention might be held, with but little inconvenience, to form a constitution
to be submitted to the several Grand Lodges fur their consideration.'
" The Grand Lodge supported these views of the M. W. Grand Master by the
adoption of a resolution, which your committee intend to submit for your adop-
tion.
284 HISTORY OF MASONEY IN ILLINOIS.
"Several other Grand Lodges entertain similar views.
" From what has been thus submitted, it will at once be seen that the plan of
sending a delegate abroad 'for the purpose of examining the mode and man-
ner of Masonic work in foreign countries, and to publish a treatise on his return,
for the benefit of the Fraternity, to harmonize and furnish some plan of union,
whereby the work in this and other countries may be the same,' as has been
proposed by Mississippi, and approved by some other Grand Lodges, is not
concurred in, under present circumstances ; though admitted to be a measure
which a General Grand Lodge might adopt with great propriety and usefulness
if it should so please.
"Your committee have had great happiness in observing that thoroughness
in work appears now to be sought for among the Lodges, equally with uni-
formity and harmony. A disposition is beginning to be manifested every-
where, rather to make good and thorough, than to make many Masons ; it is
now realized that the strength of the Institution is rather in the quality than
the quantity of its members. The practice of hurrying candidates into the
Institution after they have petitioned, and, when initiated, of carrying them on
from one degree to another, irrespective of proficiency in the degree or degrees
taken, is undergoing correction in almost every quarter. It is some happiness
to know that this comparatively youthful Grand Lodge has been forward in re-
momsirances against such haste. In 1841— the second year of her existence—
the instructed, that ' petitions of candidates should not be acted on, unless the
same had lain over at least [one month ;' and in 1843, pronounced it to be one
of the greatest irregularities of which there was reason to complain in certain
quarters, that there was 'a disposition to push candidates on through the Sec-
ond and Third Degrees, before they could possibly be skilled in the First or
Second,' and declared, that 'the ancient landmarks of the Order require, that
the Lodge should know that the candidate is well skilled in one degree, before,
he is advanced to another;' and in 1844, gave force to her expressions in these
regards, by exemplary discipline in the memorable cases at Nauvoo. Several
Grand Lodges have adopted the same or similar rules. That of New Hampshire
has enacted, that 'no candidate for initiation, can be proposed, balloted for,
or made a Mason, at a special Lodge, nor at any time, unless his application has
laid over for the consideration of the members, at least four weeks, before he
can be balloted for, without a dispensation for that purpose;' and that 'all
Entered Apprentices must work five months as such, before they can be ad-
mitted to the degree of Fellow Craft. All Fellow Crafts must work in a Lodge
of Crafts three months, before they can be raised to the sublime degree of Mas-
ter Mason: Provided, nevertheless, that if any Entered Apprentice or Fellow
Craft shall make himself thoroughly acquainted with ail the information be-
longing to his degree, he may be advanced at an earlier period, at the discretion
of the Lodge.'
"A foreign Grand Lodge, that of Hanover, has ordained, that 'an Apprentice
shall remain two years in that degree, and a Fellow Craft one year in that de-
gree;' and the M. W. Grand Master decides against any deviation from the
rule, on the ground, that 'notwithstanding any assertion to the contrary, it is
absolutely impossible for a brother, let his capacity or assiduity be what it may,
to acquire in a shorter space, the knowledge of his degree, even in regard to its
forms and customs. To neglect this regulation,' says he, 'and advance, at the
expiration of a few months, nay sometimes a few days, a newly initiated mem-
ber to the Master's degree, is an intolerable abuse; and it has likewise this fault,
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 285
that it strips away all the merit from that degree, which is the most sublime
one, and ought never to be attained, but as a reward for zeal, aptness and perse-
verance."
"The Grand Lodge of Indiana provides that 'a candidate shall not be initiated
in less than one month from the time of the filingof his petition;' and that 'more
than one degree s^iall not be conferred upon the same candidate in less than one
month.' Our youthful sister of Iowa has decreed that 'no Lodge shall receive
any petition for initiation or admission, except on the day of a stated regular
monthly meeting thereof; and no ballot shall be taken upon such petition, ex-
cept seven members are present, nor until the next monthly meeting after the
date of its presentation ; nor shall a candidate be advanced to a superior degree
without satisfactory examination as to his proficiency in the last degree lie
took.' The provisions of the Grand Lodges of Michigan and Wisconsin are in
effect the same. ' The practice of examining the candidates in the prior de-
grees before admission to the higher,' says an able Grand Master, the want of
the proceedings of whose Grand Lodge has already been noticed — M. W. Alex.
II. Robertson, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of New York — ' in order to
ascertain their proficiency, is gaining the favorable notice of Masters of Lodges,
and can not be too highly valued, nor too strongly recommended to Lodges in
this jurisdiction. It necessarily requires the novitiate to reflect upon the bear-
ing of all that has been so far taught him, and consequently to impress upon
his mind the benuty and utility of those sublime truths, which have been illus-
trated in the course of the ceremonies he has witnessed in his progress in the
mystic art. In a word, it will be the means of making competent overseers of
the work — and no candidate should be advanced until he has satisfied the Lodge
by such an examination, that he has made the necessary proficiency in the
lower degree— those made under dispensation only excepted.
"These views formed the basis of the resolution already adopted by this
Grand Lodge,— to the strict observance of which it is trusted the subordinate
Lodges will be held. It certainly had become necessary that the demand of
'suitable proficiency' in a preceding degree, prior to further promotion, should
Vie authoritatively defined; for, practically, it had well nigh lost all signiticancy.
The definition given by this Grand Lodge, it will be seen from the above, is in
accordance with the formal expressions of a large and most intelligent portion
of the Fraternity; t. e., that perfection in the preceding degree is necessary to
satisfy the demand. By concurring with sister Grand Lodges in enforcing this
rule, the Grand Lodge of Illinois will contribute much towards raising the
standard of Masonry, and harmonizing its practice with its theory and its prin-
ciples; for she will make Masons, not merely ceremonially, but intellectually
and morally.
" The matter of balloting for candidates, the question whose is the right ? has
distinctly engaged the attention of your committee. Their views on the sub-
ject shall be briefly given.
"The Masonic Institution is, as it professes to be, catholic or universal. In-
deed, catholicity is of the essence of its character; giving it a feature of strik-
ing and almost peculiar interest, beauty, and glory. Therefore it is, that there
is, there can be, properly and truly, but one f.imily of Masons on the wide earth ;
that the ' Masonic Fraternity everywhere is one band of brothers, the children
of one father, united by one fundamental constitution, and one sacred cove-
nant.' Portions, or branches of the family exist in different places, under local
286 H1STOKY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS.
organizations,* but it is to be borne in mind, that all are or should be governed
by the same common principles, speak the same language, work for the same
end, and enjoy the same benefits. Hence it is often seen, that if one mem-
ber suffers all the members suffer with him, and if one member rejoices all the
members rejoice with him. The Masonic Institution presents in theory, and
realizes the same to some extent practically, the beautiful spectacle of a univer-
sal family, the throbbing of the heart of every member of which is but, as it
were, the pulse of the mighty heart of the whole, beating only to the common
good.
"The introduction of a new member into the Institution, is, therefore, a mat-
ter of singular interest to the entire Fraternity. From the moment of initiation,
H new heart beats with the family, whose claims for a responsive recognition are
founded on ties which are the same the world over; and which may in any clime
or country, thereafter, demand the performance of the vows of a common cove-
nant.
" In accordance herewith, your committee deem it a right inherent in every
member of the Masonic family to raise his voice and free his conscience in vievr
of such an introduction; they deem it the inalienable privilege of every Mason
present, on a given occasion, when a candidate is balloted for, to deposit his
ballot; they hold to be most strictly true the language of a former committee
of this Grand Lodge, that ' the privilege of balloting for or against an applicant
is one of the inalienable rights of our time-honored Institution.'
" This subject has been brought to the especial notice of your committee in
the foreign correspondence, wherein they discover that the Grand Lodge of
Hanover has formally recognized the great principle here asserted, by enacting
that 'In balloting for a candidate for initiation, every visiting brother shall
have a right to vote, because the candidate, when initiated, becomes a member
of the Craft in general.'
"May the consistent example thus set, serve as an incentive to this Grand
Lodge, to take its stand upon the same high, catholic, and truly Masonic ground !
"The 'general rule which governs' the Fraternity 'in the admission of mem-
bers,' that 'such admission shall be sanctioned by entire unanimity,' should, in
the opinion of your committee, be rigidly adhered to by this Grand Lodge. It
is one of those ancient and almost universal provisions, which, by its tender and
sacred regard for the conscience of every brother, proclaims the entire freeness
and peculiar beneficence of the Institution of Freemasonry. The theory is, that
every member of the entire family should be permitted to say, in view of a given
applicant, whether ho can fulfill the duties and obligations of a brother towards
him; and that if any brother should conscientiously feel (and a Mason is to be
supposed to act at all such times, at least, conscientiously), that he can not acquit
himself of his obligations towards the applicant, hisconsciencc .«hall not be forced
by having that individual brought into such relation towards him; and he, in
consequence, be constrained, on the one hand, to violate conscience in the per-
formance of duties which, in that particular case, would be against its convic-
" * Such organizations are of comparatively very recent date. Previous to 1717,
Lodges were empowered by inherent privileges vested in the Fraternity at large,
to meet and act orcaMonally under the direction of some able architect. The
:uicient charges were the only standard for the regulation of conduct, and no
law was known in the society which those charges did not inculcate.
" By such an inherent authority, the Lodge of Antiquity, in London, lias al-
ways been, and still continues to be governed. — Preston's III.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 287
tions; or, on the other, in the non-fulfillment of positive obligations to this end.
Sacred and fundamental, therefore, is the rule conceived to be which requires
that ' no candidate shall be initiated in any Lodge without a clear and unanimous
ballot in his favor.' Such has ever been the estimate of this Grand Lodge. In
the year 1842, its declared sentiments on this subject were as follows :
'"The privilege of balloting for or against an applicant, is one of the inalienable
rights of our time-honored Institution. The Lodge has no right to introduce
within its walls any applicant who may be obnoxious to any one of its members ;
neither has it the right to inquire into the motive which actuated or influenced
the ballot of any member.
"'Should a member, forgetful of those Masonic principles so often inculcated
within our sacred walls, reject a worthy applicant out of private pique or malice,
the wrong is his own, and to his God alone he is accountable. And better far is
it that worthy applicants should be rejected time and again, than that the
sacredness of the ballot should be invaded.'
"The disposition observed in certain quarters to depart from this ancient
usage, and thereby sacrifice one of the holiest and most conservative features in
Masonic government, has, accordingly, excited in the minds of your committee
unfeigned regret. It is hoped that this Grand Lodge will, in this regard, abide
by ' the ancient landmarks which our fathers have set,' and that her firm but
kind remonstrance against the innovation referred to may be heeded, and avail
to some extent in effecting its correction.
"It may be considered as following naturally from the above, that your com-
mittee should hold that to be a good and wholesome provision, already adopted
by this Grand Lodge, which requires that whenever a ballot has been had in a
given case, and the result has been the rejection of the applicant, such result
should govern absolutely the entire Fraternity, for the space of twelve months;
and after the same, ' unless there be present all who were present at the time of
taking the first ballot,' or permission shall have been obtained from the Gram!
Master for balloting the second time on an application from the same indi-
vidual.
"Unusual and most extraordinary apprehensions appear to have been enter-
tained in many portions of the Masonic family in this country, for some time
past, lest imposture should obtain some success among us, and our confidence,
our charities, our rites, one and all, be, in consequence, shared or participated
in by the unworthy or 'clandestine.' So great and imminent has this imagined
evil seemed to some prominent members of the Fraternity, as to have prompted
them to effort hardly less than that which has been put forth in regard to work,
in providing a safeguard against it additional to those which our 'fathers set,'
and deemed sufficient and surer in its operation than the ancient mystic tongue
which the true craftsman only can utter purely and without 'stammering lips.'
Grand Lodge certificates have emanated hence, and from the circumstances of
their origin and the end they were intended to serve, it might be expected that
they should be made, wherever it was possible, absolute requisitions. Unhappily,
this Grand Lodge, at a former communication, gave to them such importance.
The inutility, inexpediency, and impropriety of the measure have been experi-
enced in such signal instances, as to render each marked in the extreme. But
in this our Grand Lodge is not alone; several other Grand Lodges have held
288 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
them in the same high estimate; several, however, have proposed them with
qualifications, and many, your committee are happy to say, have reprobated
them as an infringement on the ancient rules and regulations. These last have
not been able to sympathize either in the fears which prompted them, or in the
dread of the evils against whieh they were intended as an additional safeguard,
or to appreciate them highly above the means peculiar to the Institution for the
prevention of imposture, or to feel that a regulation like that with which they
are sought to be imposed would not be an 'innovation in the body of Masonry,'
against which duty requires them to contend — thinking they may neither add
to nor take aught from the deposit solemnly committed to them. The Grand
Lodges of Connecticut, Maryland, Mississippi, and Indiana, may be mentioned
as of this class, and who do not, therefore, adopt the system; and, as they inform
us, those of Rhode Island and Ohio. In the opinion of the Grand Lodge of
Maryland, expressed through its committee, your committee concur, viz.: that
' a Grand Lodge diploma should only be regarded as evidence that the individual
may be examined, under the certainty that if he proves himself a Mason, he is
not an expelled or clandestine made Mason, but in good standing;' in other
words, that he was 'initiated in a regular Lodge.' Thus viewed, Grand Lodge
certificates are matters of indifference — evidence collateral only, which may be
regarded or waived at the pleasure of any Mason or body of Masons to whoin
they may be preferred. It is hoped that the day is far, very far distant, when
they shall generally be rested on the higher ground of requisition, and the eye, the
ear, and the touch, the eminently Masonic senses, be, in consequence, inter-
dicted a recognition of those peculiar means by which the Institution has
provided that admission should be gained 'into all regular and well governed
Lodges of Masons;' when, in short, the language of Masonry shall fail to make
itself heard, and a scrip of parchment, of modern devise, not of the Institution,
but an excresence upon it, shall be required to gain for it the notice which it
may claim, and become the sure passport to the hospitalities and charities of
'Ancient, Free, and Accepted Masons.' How shall I know you to be a Mason, is
a question which the language of Masonry answers, and which being answered,
in a given case, according to the terms of the Institution, additional evidence
may not be required, but at the hazard of 'innovation,' such as 'it is not in the
power of any man or body of men to make.'
"And what is the end proposed to be gained by the innovation? Why, to
render us infallibly sure, a degree beyond the assurance of other means, against
imposture; to render perfect the guard over our confidence, our charities, and
our rites, against the seceding, the renouncing, the clandestine, the suspended,
or the expelled Mason ! Now, as forgery is a crime far less dreaded than that of
perjury, so will he who would commit the latter, not long hesitate to add the
former to his measure of guilt, if his end may thus be gained. Let our 'due
examination' be considered, and it will be seen that that great crime is the first
in the series of ascending barriers at the portals of our Institution, whose height
well nigh reaches the clouded canopy above, impenetrable for their intricacy,
and that they may not be scaled by him whose goings are not ordered in up-
rightness. If one should have the hardihood to try the difficult ascent, when he
should reach the newly proposed topmost bar, it would be found but as a thread
of gossamer in his way. So little efficacious, practically, would Grand Lodge
certificates be found.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 289
" But to ' climb up some other way,' as ' the thief and the robber,' is very rarely
attempted, and for all the cases of such imposition, a rigid appliance of the de-
tectives of the Institution will fully avail. If, perchance, it were otherwise, and
one in a thousand were to be successful; what then? what would be proved but
that in one wonderful instance in this 19th century, the knavery and the wicked-
ness of man had united with the cunning of the deceiver to such an extent as to
have triumphed over impediments that have proved efficacious in opposing
invasion for well nigh five thousand years. Let us not be wiser than our fathers.
" But what would be gained by the successful impostor, or what of loss would
he cost us? Impostor, thief, perjurer, in largest characters, would glare with a
more than phosphorescent brightness upon everything without upon which he
looked, and from his mind within, till his bewildered vision would render him
all harmless to say the least as regards the Institution, and lead him to seek
covert from himself, his convictions, and his shame. What, if admitted to our
rites, could the seceding or renouncing, the suspended or expelled Mason after-
wards say of us that he might not say without such an admission, except that
there is now a holier tone in the Institution than when he disgraced it by
apostacy or by grossness ? What could the base impostor say at which we should
revolt? Is not all our work guided by the 'Great Light,' in the moral as well as
the Masonic world? Tne betrayer of us, then, can do us no harm; and is not
this proven by the experience of the last twenty years? Have not the false, tho
impostors, the professed revelators, within that period, really, though indirectly,
given to Masonry its present towering strength? Has not the Institution been
improved by their means ? For a small moment the wrath of the enemy seemed
to prevail, and she seemed forsaken; but she was undergoing purification only,
and she has come forth as gold from the furnace, mightier now than ever.
•' Your committee can but feel that the brethren generally are in too much fear
of imposture. We have seen that it has no power to harm us as a body; that
any serious harm can accrue to us as individuals, from an occasional improper
tax upon our confidence or our charity, is not believed. Such bondage to fear,
in the regard under consideration, argues unfavorably for the strength of our
cause, and the adequacy of the safeguards of our 'Ancient Masonic Institution.'
Your committee are, therefore, content with the Institution as it is, fortified by
' the ancient landmarks which our fathers have set,' without the requisition of
Grand Lodge certificates— believing with our brethren of Connecticut, that
' there are rules and rites, co-existent with Masonry itself, by which every Lodge
may and should guard itself against all imposition ; and to be imposed upon by
a clandestine made Mason, or one who is under the sentence of expulsion or
suspension, or in any other manner, must show a very great forgetfulness of the
obligations by which the Fraternity are bound.'
"In the disagreements which have already arisen, and are likely to arise out
of this matter, your committee see another and most urgent reason for the for-
mation of a General Grand Lodge.
" If any Grand Lodge should insist on requiring Grand Lodge certificates, and
refuse communion without them, where shall lie the appeal ? who or what shall
interpose to heal the schism?
"Your committee observe that Masonic education is a leading subject which
appears to be engaging the attention of the brethren universally, and awakening
them to action. Foremost in this humane cause stands the Grand Lodge of
Missouri, whose noble efforts in this regard excite admiration, and are beyond
all praise. Her Masonic college for the education of destitute orphans, is the
—20
290 HISTOKY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS.
first successful public charity of the kind ever yet attempted in our country,* and
through the favor of the Supreme Grand Master, will cause untold numbers, in
generations to come, to rise up and call those noble craftsmen blessed who pro-
jected and achieved that 'great and glorious undertaking.' It stands as a
monument of the wisdom that devised, and of the energetic charity that
accomplished a result which serves to the whole Fraternity as a beacon light to
guide them to the noblest and most effectual mode for dispensing their charity.
Already has it stirred many an impulse in the same direction in other quarters,
and moved to correspondent action.
"The Grand Lodge of Misssissippi has adopted the same educational system,
and the signal success which has already crowned its action since its adoption,
is such as to reflect the highest credit upon the brethren supporting it, whilst it
confers upon the Masonic Institution the distinguished honor of maintaining
the only free schools in that State. It is learned through the brethren of New
Hampshire, who refer to the same with approbation, that the Grand Lodge of
Kentucky has moved in the same matter, by 'requesting each and every subor-
dinate Lodge under her jurisdiction to appoint a committee, whose duty it shall
be to find out all the orphan children of deceased Masons within the limits of
its jurisdiction, and those who are in indigent circumstances, and send said
children to the school in the neighborhood where they live, and pay for the same
out of the funds of the Lodge, and by subscriptions from members and transient
members,' and providing that 'if there can not be means enough raised by such
sources, then the Grand Lodge may appropriate such sums as it may deem
proper for such purposes, by petition being made for the same.'
" The brethren in Indiana and Maryland are engaged with reference to the
same holy cause, as, your committee indirectly learn, are they of North Carolina,
Tennessee, and Alabama. This mode of dispensing Masonic charity appears to
he free from all objections, is secure against perversion of loss, and is effective
in accomplishing the greatest amount of good. Your committee would therefore
express the hope that this Grand Lodge will not be backward in appreciating
and practicing it, but that by generous, prompt, and decided action, she will
speedily place herself high in this rank of usefulness and honor.
" To another and most truly legitimate mode of practicing Masonic charity,
attention has been given in certain quarters. The brethren of Mississippi have
been forward in the example. The R. W. Dep. Grand Master of that Grand
Lodge thus speaks of the subject to which your committee now refer:
"'I learn, with unmingled feelings of gratification, that some of our subordi-
nate Lodges have lately adopted a system of action which secures to every sick
brother during his illness the constant attendance of a Master Mason. The
Masters of these subordinate Lodges are required to appoint monthly a com-
mittee, whose sole duty consists in ascertaining the invalids amongst them, and
appointing daily two Master Masons to attend each indisposed brother. The
unparalleled mortality of the past year has convinced us all, not only of the
utility, but of the absolute necessity of some general permanent system of this
*The first charity of the kind ever successfully attempted anywhere, was
the institution of the Royal Cumberland Freemason's School, in England, on the
25th of March, A. L>. 1788. It was for maintaining, clothing, and educating the
female children and orphans of indigent brethren. By liberal contributions the
institution was so established as to reflect greatest honor upon the Fraternity.
Upwards of 550 children educated in it, have, by their character in after life,
added a lustre to Freemasonry, while there has been but one blot on the bright
escutcheon, and in that case there was much more to pity than to blame.
HISTOHY OF MASONBY IN ILLINOIS. 291
character, and I should prove recreant to duty, did I not urge upon this Grand
Lodge the propriety of adopting effectual measures to secure this desirable end.
To visit the sick, and to supply their wants and administer comfort, is one of
the grand charities of our Order; but to effect this, organization and system are
essentially necessary. Divided duty is seldom performed, and that which
should be the duty of all, usually receives the attention of none. Let us,
brethren, adopt effective measures to free ourselves from the charge of negli-
gence in this particular. Let us not apply the speculative character of our work
to our charity, but rather let us practice out of our Lodges the excellent lessons
of brother love, relief, and charity, which are taught us in them. Let us look
through the emblems and symbols of Freemasonry to the discharge of the great
moral duties which they inculcate, and we may confidently anticipate the day
when the uniform and salutary, though silent and unseen influence of our prin-
ciples, will effectually silence the tongue of culumny, and weaken, if not forever
extinguish, the unjustifiable rancor and hatred of our enemies.'
"The Committee on Correspondence of the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire,
in recommending this subject to the attention of their Grand Lodge, say that
' none of the beautiful precepts of Masonry have higher claims than that of
visiting, sympathizing with, and aiding those upon whom disease has laid its
heavy hands.'
" Your committee have great joy in knowing that what is so commended here,
has already begun to be practiced among us. The by-laws of Oriental Lodge
No. 33, in the city of Chicago, exhibit the brethren who compose it as alive to
tiiis department of Masonic charity and duty. The example is commended as
worthy of general imitation and adoption.
"The importance of a general diffusion of Masonic intelligence, disposes your
committee to regard with favor the Masonic periodicals now published, and to
recommend that each Lodge within this jurisdiction subscribe for one or more
of each of them, to be the property of such Lodge, and to be kept in its hall, or in
a room appendant thereto, for the use of all the members of the Craft who may
wish to consult them.
" If an equal sum should be annually expended in the purchase of well se-
lected volumes, embodying the literature of the Institution, with its history and
constitutions, our several Masonic halls would present liberal attractions for
reading, such as could not fail to influence widely. Each hall would thus fur-
ni.sh a Masonic ' reading room,' to which the members of the Craft would gladly
resort, as a means by which to render their profession intelligent, and so pre-
pare them to discharge their several duties with honor to themselves, and satis-
faction to the Fraternity generally. How far this would promote the real and
permanent good of the Masonic Institution, your committee will not attempt to
estimate.
"In calling the attention of this Grand Lodge to the fact, admitted on a'l
sides, that unfaithfulness and imperfection in the discharge of Masonic duties
and obligations with those who have assumed them, is usually precisely com-
mensurate with the degree of ignorance of its principles characterizing tl.e
same persons, your committee believe that they will have put this Grand Body
in possession of a means of making such estimate with more correctness than
it can be done by themselves, and that the conviction will not be slow in forcing
itself on all, that the measure now proposed is wise and gopd, and therefore
worthy of adoption.
292 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
" It would essentially further the interest now considered, if a periodical de-
voted to the Craft could be successfully established among us. The matter, it
is believed, is in contemplation in a certain quarter. It is hoped that it may
issue in accordance with the wishes of the great body of the Fraternity, who are
ready to second such an effort for the common good.
"Through these means, and a free interchange of Grand Lodcre proceedings,
very satisfactory provision is afforded for rendering the Fraternity intelligent
in regard to our Institution. Each part of this is simple and effective, and may
be adapted to all conditions and exigencies. The whole is perhaps as much as
we are capable of using efficiently and with profit, in our present isolation and
relative independence; until we shall be united into one body, to be informed
and guided by it as a general head, more complex means would ill befit us.
"'The representative system,' as it is termed, is of such complex character ;
and, on many distinct accounts, is little in favor with your committee. The
Committee on Correspondence of the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire, who are
in favor of the system, so fairly state it, that they may bring it before you.
'This,' [system] say they, 'is of recent origin — it promises, as your committee
believe, much good to the cause of Masonry.
"'The practice, so far asjit prevails, is this: The Grand Lodge of one State
appoints some individual as her representative in some other Grand Lodge,
The representative appointed is received and accredited by the Grand Lodge
to which he is sent. He sometimes resides within the jurisdiction of the Lodge
sending him : but more frequently in that of the Lodge to which he is sent. A
Grand Lodge wishing to derive the advantages growing out of such a repre-
sentation, recommends to a sister Grand Lodge some suitable person to be her
representative, and asks a similar favor; the Grand Lodge sent to, approves the
recommendation or not, at her pleasure ; and will recommend or not, as she
chooses, some person near her own Grand Lodge to be representative of her
sister Grand Lodge.
"'The object of this system is to bring the Grand Lodges of the different
States into more intimate connection with each other— to bind them more closely
together as one great brotherhood, and facilitate the interchange of communi-
cations and intelligence generally.
"'From the very nature of the ease, the powers and duties of such representa-
tives are not defined with precision ; there is no one body which has the power
to <lo this. The different Lodges of different Slates are entirely independent of
each other, and whatever is done by one Grand Lodge affecting interests out of
his own jurisdiction has no binding authority till that action receives the con-
currence and approval of the Lodges generally; and even then each Grand
Lodge will remain entirely independent and at liberty to pursue her own course,
though what is ascertained to be for the benefit of the Craft generally has ever
been regarded as entitled to its influence upon the whole body.
"' There is another object which we think may be effected by this system of
representation. Questions are continually arising in one State affecting the
interest of Masonry in another. Protests may be sent— representations may
be made; but business will be poorly attended to in this way. This system may
be made to afford great facilities for the transaction of all business of this
character. Except in cases where a Grand Lodge sends one of its members to
another, this system is attended with trifling expense to any of the parties. Per-
sons are generally appointed to this station who would, without the appointment,
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 298
attend the meetings of their Grand Lodge; it will of course be attended with
no expense to them. The representative is provided with the regalia of the
State he represents, which is nearly all the expense necessary. The system has
received the approval of a large number of the Grand Lodges.' And, the com-
mittee might have added, the disapproval of a number. Unless the system
should be generally adopted, its ends can be but imperfectly answered; if gen-
erally adopted, it would be found cumbrous in the extreme, and expensive be-
yond ordinary ability. Contrary to the opinion above adduced, your committee
believe that the cost of the measure ought to be specifically counted before its
adoption ; for that, from a most cursory estimate which they have given it, the
tax of the svstem will be past being borne. In the simple matter of the required
regalia, there would be at once involved an amount of expenditure which but
very few of the Grand Lodges are able to incur. Let us examine and ascertain
as near as we may what it would be likely to be.
'•There are at present in this country thirty Grand Lodges; one in the Dis-
trict of Columbia, and one in each Territory and State, with the exception of
Vermont. Now, the plan is that each of these thirty Grand Lodges be repre-
sented at all of the others. The expense incident to such representation, in the
cheapest manner proposed, is that which must be involved in furnishing the
representatives with proper regalia. Such regalia for each representative, it is
supposed, could be procured for about one hundred dollars, — such being the
price of that with which your committee have known some representatives to be
invested. At this rate, proper regalia for thirty representatives would amount
to three thousand dollars! Should any Grand Lodge seek to be represented
abroad also, the expense would be increased according to the estimate above
given. Here is presented the lowest cost of the plan, unless indeed the cost of
the regalia be reduced. If that be done, say one half, its aggregate cost fully
carried out, to each Grand Lodge, would be, but fifteen hundred dollars!
"If the representation were to be effected, not by the choice of Masons as
representatives, whose residence is at or near the place of meeting of the Grand
Lodge in which representation is sought to be had, but by sending Masons from
the jurisdiction to be represented, the expense would, of course, be vastly in-
creased ; it would in nearly all cases, be doubled, and in some quadrupled.
" Now, it is submitted whether this Grand Lodge is prepared for this ? Can
it concur in so expensive a system ?
" But the system, if fully tried, will be found to be as cumbrous as it is ex>-
pensive. What, for instance, would be the position of this Grand Lodge to-day,
if she were called on to discharge the duties that would be owed to thirty or
forty foreign representatives near her, and to regard duly representatives of her
own in an equal number abroad ? Is not the thought of the complexity cf the
plan truly forbidding? It is, in the opinion of your committee, too expen-
sive and complex for adoption; other and more simple means may answer its
purposes, and this, which is of so 'recent origin,' be therefore permitted to
'sleep awhile.' Your committee will not disguise the fact of their belief, that
by a General Grand Lodge its adoption might be feasible and eminently useful.
In such connection, it would be free from the objections offered to it, as at
present proposed, and might prove effective in promoting ends correspondent
with those which are answered by the system of representation in operation at
the scat of, and by, our general civil government. With such system it would
be in analogy. But what would be thought of the proposal to extend that sys-
291 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
tem to the several State and Territorial governments in this country, as this
system of Masonic representation is proposed with respect to the several Grand
Lodges?
"A general Masonic government your committee believe to be the only body
that can with propriety either put itself, or be put, forward as the organ of cor-
respondence, the head of government, the body to represent and be represent-
ed, and, by consequence, to receive and transmit general information, concern-
ing the entire family. For such and further reasons offered by the Grand
Lodge of Maryland, they deem the adoption of the plan unnecessary and inex-
pedient.
'"Without having the necessary documents before them,' says that Grand
Lodge, through the report of its committee, 'conclusively to show the fact, they
believe the system originated some years ago in our sister Grand Lodge of New
York; the object of which was to facilitate a more familiar intercourse between
the different Grand Lodges, both here and in Europe, and thereby to extend
the benevolent designs of the Institution.
'" The mode of effecting this object is, that each Grand Lodge shall appoint
a representative at all other Grand Lodges, to whom all communications may
be sent from the Grand Lodge he represents, necessary to be transmitted to
that to which he is appointed a representative. This representative is not in-
tended to be a member of the Grand Lodge he represents, or even a citizen of
the State or county in which his appointment is made, but a citizen of the place
whore he is to perform the functions of his office, and, perhaps, a member
of the same Grand Lodge in which he is to represent a foreign body.
"'In order to carry out the system in a manner to do honor to this Grand
Lodge, should it be thought expedient to adopt it, your committee are of opinion
that, in the first place, the Grand Secretary should open a negotiation with each
Grand Lodge, with which you wish to stand in this relation, and ascertain
whether it will be agreeable to that body to accept your terms of friendly inter-
course. If accepted, some suitable person, residing near that Grand Lodge
should lie appointed, to whom you will issue your commission, and at the same
time furnish him with the appropriate clothing and jewel of this Grand Lodge.
"'Your committee might, perhaps, with propriety stop here, and consider
that they had executed the duties of their appointment; but they will take the
liberty to suggest, that inasmuch as it is a generally adopted rule that each
Grand Secretary shall communicate with all others, at least, so far as to transmit
printed copies of the journal of the proceedings of his Grand Lodge, and as all
matters proper and necessary to be communicated from one Grand Lodge to
another can (as it should seem) be as well communicated through that officer as
through a representative, who is not presumed to have greater knowledge of
the affairs of the body he represents than any other stranger, until it shall be
specially transmitted to him, they do not understand how a greater familiarity,
or a more friendly intercourse, can be effected through the one channel than the
other.
'"The committee would farther suggest, that the appointment of representa-
tives by this Grand Lodge would, in their opinion, be attended with a very con-
siderable outlay of expense, while they are not satisfied that the system is likely
to effect any important good to the Fraternity.'
"The relation between the several bodies which have cognizance of the
different departments of the Masonic Institution is involved in the third section
HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 295
of the fourth article of the constitution of the Grand Lodge of Wisconsin, and is
of such importance as to deserve a notice in this report.
" The article says : 'The expulsion or suspension of a brother from a Royal
Arch chapter, or an encampment of Knights Templar, shall not operate as an
expulsion from the Lodge of which he is a member.'
" The Committee on Correspondence of the Grand Lodge of Maryland, 'in
brotherly kindness and regard,' commented upon this article at some length.
Their views are so clear and just that your committee have thought it well to
adopt them, and present their entire report on the subject :
" 'This is a subject in dispute by various Grand Lodges, and your committee
are not aware that this Grand Lodge has decided the point, or that there is a
uniform rule of action among the subordinates of this Grand Lodge. Your com-
mittee do not wish or intend disrespect to any body, or individual, who rnay
entertain the doctrine expressed in this section, when they say that such a
position is unjust and absurd. Byway of illustration let us suppose a case:
A, B, C, and D, are members of Lodge No. 3, and Chapter No. 1. A is expelled by
the Lodge, and afterwards goes to a meeting of the Chapter: will B, C, and D,
sit there with him ? Can they do it? or will they not require that the Chapterdeal
with him as did the Lodge? Suppose that he has been expelled by the Chapter
instead of the Lodge, and afterwards attempts to sit in the Lodge with B, C, and
D ; are they not in the same relative positions to each other? And if the Chap-
ter did right in expelling him, because he had been expelled by the Lodge,
would the Lodge be doing more or less than right in doing as the Chapter had
done? Would the square be broken or the level destroyed in the one case, and
not in the other? Suppose B, C, and D to be Master and Wardens of the Lodge;
A is expelled by the Chapter, and the Lodge refuses to do so; could not B, C, or
D, whichever was acting as Master, refuse to admit him, the Lodge being open ?
Suppose the Lodge not open, and the installed officers refuse to open while A
was there, could the Lodge be opened by a past installed officer, or any other
member, against the order of the Master? We hold it to be the duty of a Lodge,
Chapter, or Eecampment, to believe that a body expelling a member, did so for
good and sufficient cause, on just and proper trial, in accordance with Masonic
law, and, therefore, bound by the square to go and do likewise, unless he require
of them a trial, in which the evidence producing his expulsion shall be before
the tribunal appealed to, with such as may be obtained; and if, after such in-
vestigation, they shall judge that he ought not to have been expelled, they
should refer the case to the first or expelling body, soliciting a re-hearing, and
showing the reason why he should not be expelled. Should the expelling body,
after such re-hearing, still continue the sentence of expulsion, contrary to the
views of the second body, he should stand expelled from all, unless an appeal
be taken to the Grand Lodge, Chapter, or Encampment, whichever may have
the jurisdiction over the expelling body; and should the sentence be there sus-
tained, all should be bound by that decision, and act accordingly. This course
appears to be proper and just, although cases may arise in which injustice may
seem to be done ; yet it is held that improper motives are not to be attributed
by one party to another, but remember that they are brethren .acting up to their
obligations to each other, according to the principles and precepts of Masonry.'
"Whether a subordinate Lodge may try its own Master, has been of late
widely discussed, and, for the importance of the principles involved, deserves to
be brought to the notice of this Grand Lodge. In Mississippi, the case origina-
ted which has called up the subject, with especial interest, at this time. The R.
296 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
W. D. Grand Master of that State submitted the case to his Grand Lodge as fol-
lows :
"'Your attention is respectfully solicited to the consideration of a very
momentous and important question of Masonic jurisprudence, which lias been
called forth by the action of one of our subordinate Lodges, during the pa>t
year. It assumed and exercised the power of expelling its own Master, who was
also the Senior Grand Warden of this Grand Lodge. If the rule adopted by the
triennial convention of Baltimore, that "no subordinate Lodge can try its own
Master, but that he is amenable to the Grand Lodge, alone," be correct, the
whole proceeding is absolutely null and void, and the brother is still our Senior
Grand Warden. The conformity of this rule with the Old Constitutions of Mason-
ry, and its almost universal approval by the Craft, have given to it the binding
force and sanction of a law. I do not feel disposed to question either its wisdom
or propriety. By it the Master of a Lodge is exempt from trial whilst he con-
tinues in office; so also is the Grand Master of a State, for he is, by virtue of his
office, the Master of all the subordinate Lodges within his jurisdiction. Does
not the same rule hold good as to all the officers of the Grand Lodge? One of
the reasons upon which the rule is founded, is, as I suppose, that the subordinate
Lodge might, by expulsion of its successive Masters, deprive itself of all its
officers, and thus work its own temporary, if not permanent dissolution. The
same reason will apply with equal, nay, with greater force to the case of the
Grand Lodge, as each of its subordinates might, by the exercise of this power,
expel all its grand officers, and thus effect its virtual destruction. The action of
the subordinate Lodge, as to the Senior Grand Warden, is certainly an anomaly
in the history of government, as I can recollect no instance where one of a
numerous constituency has been permitted to depose an officer whom all have
concurred in selecting. Each of the subordinate Lodges is but a unit of this
Grand Lodge, and the aggregation of these units forms the constituency of its
grand officers. You might with equal propriety give to any one member of the
«leetorial college of our nation the power to depose the President, whom all
have concurred in selecting, as to suffer a subordinate Lodge to expel an officer
whom all the Masons throughout the State have elevated to office. This power
is certainly withheld in the former case, and I can see no plausible reason why
it should be conferred in the latter. As in the political, so also in the Masonic
government, the constituent bodies of each may, by its representatives, impeach
before the proper tribunal their general officers, but never depose them. What
is the proper tribunal in our government? Certainly thjp Grand Lodge, to which,
by the Old Constitutions, was intrusted the sole power of suspending or expell-
ing, not merely its own officers, but even the private members of the Craft.
Could I see no other objection to the action of the subordinate Lodge, its
novelty, and startling violation of all the usages of good government, would be
with me insurmountable. To you, brethren, the question is submitted, with
nn earnest request that you will give it that calm and serious investigation which
its novelty and importance demand.'
"The Grand Lodge sustained these views of the Grand Master, at the same
time that it maintained the justness of the grounds upon which the subordinate
Lodge had acted, by expelling the individual ' from all the rights, privileges, and
benefits of Masonry.'
"A counter view is presented by the Committee on Correspondence of the
Grand Lodge of New Hampshire. That committee says :
HISTORY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS. 207
"'The convention assembled at Baltimore expressed the opinion that a subor-
dinate Lodge had not a right to try its Master. The Grand Lodges of Massa-
chusets. Arkansas, and Mississippi concur in that opinion, some of the other
Grand Lodges dissent. The principle ground of this opinion is that a Master of
a Lodge is a member of the Grand Lodge, and therefore only amenable for any
of his acts to that body. It is replied, that the same reasoning would equally
apply to the Wardens.
•"The right view of this question, it seems to your committee, has not been
taken. The report of the minority of the committee in the Grand Lodge of
Mississippi upon this question, which came before that Lodge, comes nearer to
the true view than any other we have met.
"' A glance at the history of our Grand Lodges and their powers must settle
this question. The time was, when there existed no Grand Lodge, — the whole
authority of course then rested in what are now termed subordinate Lodges.
Many inconveniences were found to grow out of this state of things, and a
remedy was attempted by a union of a number of Lodges, through certain offi-
cers appointed for that purpose, which resulted in the establishment of the
regular Grand Lodges of the present day. The powers which they at present
possess, it is apparent, must have grown up gradually, and must have been con-
ceded to them by the original Lodges, and was so much taken from them.
Grand Lodges, then, could possess only those powers which were expressly
granted to them by the subordinates to whom they owe their very existence.
These powers are defined in the constitutions of those bodies, or sanctioned by
long continued use and acquiesence; and whatever powers are not thus found
to be conceded to the Grand Lodges are retained still in the primitive state.
The right, then, which any Lodge has to try its Master, does not rest in opinion,
but it is a question of fact whether it have parted with this power; and this
question, in the view of your committee, there is one instrument, and one only,
which can settle, and that is the constitution of the Grand Lodge. Your com-
mittee do not question the right of the subordinate Lodges, by their representa-
tives in the Grand Lodge, to confer that power upon the latter body; but until
that is done, we are very clearly of opinion that the power is retained where
it originally was. The question of naked right, and of expediency, are two very
different things, which are too apt to be blended together; and the latter but
too often exerts more than its legitimate influence upon the former — upon the
Utter we are not called to express an opinion. In the constitution of the Grand
Lodge of Wisconsin, recently adopted, we noticed a provision of this kind,
vesting this power in the Grand Lodge— it, the only provision of the kind in
any of our constitutions which has fallen within our observation.'
'Your committee are disposed to favor this view of our brethren in New
Hampshire. The subject is important in the last degree, and requires to be
adjudicated by some central, general authority, that justice and uniformity rnny
prevail.
" Under what jurisdiction should be the Past Master's degree, whether that
of the Master's Lodge or Chapter, one or both, is a question which has been
occupying the attention of some of our sister Grand Lodges.
"Article 6th of the constitution of Missouri provides, that ' it shall be the
duty of each subordinate Lodge to cause the degree or order of Past Master to
b j conferred upon the Worshipful Master and Wardens elect, as sopn after their
election as is possible and convenient.'
—21
298 HISTORY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS.
"This provision, extending the degree of Past Master to the Warden* a« well
as Masters elect of a subordinate Lodge, seems to your committee to be in conflict
with the nature of the degree— as exhibited in its history and objects — with its
teachings, and Masonic usage.
'•No person has a right to receive it who has not been actually elected to pre-
side over a regular Lodge. The degree thus restricts itself, and necessarily ex-
cludes from its possession those elected Wardens merely. The practice of con-
ferring this degree upon Masons not previously elected to preside as Masters in
the chair orignated in Maryland some twenty-five or thirty years since, with the
view, as is declared, of facilitating the advancement of Chapters then in their
infancy. But this usage is very properly acknowledged and condemned by the
Grand Lodge of that State as an innovation. Yet, strange to say, Mr. Cole, in
his ' Masonic Library,' treats the subject as if authoritatively settled otherwise ;
and his is the only sanction known for the provision quoted from the constitu-
tion of the Grand Lodge of Missouri. His statement is as follows :
'"Formerly none but those who, having by a steady line of conduct, and the
most unremitting exertions, in the cause of Masonry, been selected by their
brethren, and placed as chief overseers of the work, were made acquainted with
the mysteries contained in this degree; and such only were considered as le-
gally authorized to sit and act, as representatives in the general grand convo-
cations; but inconsequence of the manner in which the divine influence of
Masonry has been extended over the greater parts of the habitable globe, it has
been found convenient to confer this knowledge on any worthy Master, who
may obtain the unanimous consent of the Past Masters of the Lodge of which
he is at that time a member.
" ' No Master can, however, obtain the honorary degree of Past Master in any
other Lodge than that of which he is a working member, except in a Chapter of
B. A. Masons, who possess the privilege of conferring all the intermediate de-
grees, by a right inherent in them.'
"The foundation of this teaching being assumption, and contrary to Masonic
right, however well intended, the practice which is in accordance with it can
but be regarded as erroneous. So our brethren in Maryland, with whom it or-
iginated, have themselves, as already stated, admitted.
" But the point still remains, who shall confer the Past Master's degree on the
Master. On this subject the Grand Lodge of Maryland, through its Committee
on Correspondence, holds the following language:
'" The first topic to which they would call your attention is of a local nature,
and was -suggested by the report on correspondence of the Grand Lodge of
Illinois, which says :'
"'"The Grand Lodge of Maryland approves of the system of lectures as
adopted and aereed upon by the convention of Masons at Baltimore, in May,
1843, and has directed that the same be adopted by all the Lodges under her
jurisdiction. She refuses her assent to the sendfng of a delegate to Europe.
She has forbidden the subordinate Lodges under her jurisdiction to confer the
degree of Past Master on any one who has not been duly elected to preside in
the chair (a practice we did not suppose had ever obtained under the jurisdiction
of any Grand Lodge). She is also in favor of the establishment of a Grand
Masonic. Convention to meet triennially, possessing certain specified powers."
"'Your committee have, on a former occasion, felt it their duty to correct a
similar error, into which our New York brethren had fallen in relation to the
Past Master's degree ; the expression used by our Illinois brethren, "a practice
we did not suppose hacf eve.r qbtained tinder the jurisdiction of any Orand Lodge,"
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 290
must serve as the excuse for the notice which your committee take of the sub-
ject, and the remarks they intend to make thereon. Your committee desire to
approach this subject with due respect; so far as their information extends,
they believe this practice originated with some of the members of the Grand
Lodge of Maryland, some twenty or twenty-five, perchance thirty years since,
with the view, as is supposed, of facilitating the advancement of the Chapters,
then in their infancy; and they believe received the sanction of the Grand
Lodge by the imposition of a tax on the degree, which tax. however, has long
since been abandoned, although the practice of conferring the degree has not
shared the same fate. Having been practiced by nearly all subordinate
Lodges for the above period, this assumption has acquired the sanctity of
" ancient usage." Thus much for its origin : let us now calmly view the situation
in which we are placed by this innovation. It is a matter of surprise to some of
our sister Grand Lodges that such a thing should exist, and to others a matter
of rejoicing when they believed, though erroneously, that the practice was
abandoned. But again, it is an assumption of the inherent rights and preroga-
tives of another body, which brings us into direct conflict with what body, and
places those of us who belong to both bodies in an awkward and unpleasant
predicament. The constitution of the G. G. Chapter provides that " the several
State Grand Chapters shall have the sole government and superintendence of
the several R. A. Chapters and Lodges of the M. E., Past, and M. M. Masons,
within their respective jurisdictions," &c. " No dispensation or charter shall be
granted for instituting Lodges of M. E., Past, or M. Masters, independent of a
Chapter of R. A. Masons;" and without such dispensation or charter they are
declared illegal, and " Masonic communication, both public and private, is here-
by interdicted and forbidden between any Chapter or Lodge, or any member
of either of them; and any Chapter, Lodge, or assembly, that may be so illegally
formed, opened, or holden, without such charter, or any or either of their
members, or any person exalted or advanced in such illegal Chapter or Lodge."
Our brethren who are not members of a Chapter, or who have taken none of
those degrees, can from this see the predicament in which they place their
brethren who have taken those degrees, if they continue the practice under
consideration. Every R. A. Mason or Mark Master must hold as a clandestine
Mason any one who may so receive this degree ; and Masonic communication
is forbidden, not only with him, but with all who have assisted in thus confer-
ring this degree. As R. A. Masons they feel bound to lay before their brethren
of this Grand Lodge this plain statement of the case, and appeal to them, by
our common fraternal ties, to adopt at once a course of action which will restore
us to an equal level, by laying aside this assumed power, which is not defensible
on any principle of right, justice, or expediency.'
" Your committee can not indorse the opinion at which that body has arrived,
that the Chapter has exclusive jurisdiction over this degree; and by conse^
quence, that the practice of conferring it in connection with grand and subor-
dinate Lodges is in conflict with the constitution of the G. G. Chapter, and tends
to disturb the harmony of the Masonic Institution.
"The constitution of the G. G. Chapter is intended, it is conceived, to guard
against the formation of any Chapter, or of the Lodges in a Chapter, without a
dispensation or charter from the G. G. Chapter, or from some Grand Chapter
under the jurisdiction of the G. G. Chapter; and to forbid Masonic communica-
tion, both public and private, between any Chapter, or Lodge in a Chapter, or
any member of either of them, and any Chapter, Lodge in a Chapter, or assem-
803 MISTOKY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS.
bly, purporting to be a Chapter, or part or branch of a Chapter, that may be
formed, opened, or holden without such dispensation or charter, or any or either
of their members, or any person exalted or advanced in such illegal Chapter
or Lodge. But it does not, as it appears to your committee, either in its letter
or spirit, engross the Past Master's degree so that it may not be conferred by
a convention of Past Masters upon one who has been duly elected to preside over
a subordinate Lodge as Master. In short, that it does not arrogate exclusive
jurisdiction over the Past Master's degree so as to take from other distinct and
independent bodies, having jurisdiction over the first three degrees of Masonry,
that on which their continued existence depends. For the power of conferring
this degree seems to be incident to a Master's Lodge, and necessary to its very
existence. On this point your committee would call your attention to the per-
tinent remarks of the R. W. Deputy Grand Master of the State of Mississippi :
"'The several Grand Lodges of our country have very properly determined,
that no mere Master can preside over a subordinate Lodge, or fill any of the
more important offices of his Grand Lodge. This rule, though perfectly correct,
operates with peculiar hardship here, as many of our subordinate Lodges have
seldom more than one of their number qualified to preside, and should he,
after his election, die or remove, a large number of them would be compelled
to suspend their labors until their next communication, or to send off one of
their Wardens to obtain, in some distant Chapter, the requisite qualification to
fill the chair of his own Lodge. Brethren, this is an extreme evil. * * * I
can not dismiss this subject without some notice of the noble conduct of our
brother Master Masons, in adopting the rule which excludes them from all
the high offices of their Order, upon the mere assurance of their brethren of
higher degrees, that a different course would be a violation of the landmarks of
Masonry. We may well conclude that such another instance of brotherly con-
fidence could be found in no earthly institution. To you, brethren, this ques-
tion is again submitted — and I ask you, in the name of every Master Mason of
our country, to give it your serious consideration.'
"It is submitted, that it never was the intention of the framers of the G. G
R. A. constitution to make the first three degrees of Masonry, upon which the
Chapter degrees themselves depend, dependent upon those degrees. No record
of this character appears in the history either of the G. G. Chapter, or the State
Grand Chapters in this country; but it does appear, that ' until the year 1797,
no Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons was organized in America ; and that
previously to this period a competent number of companions, of that degree,
possessed of sufficient abilities, under the sanction of a Master's warrant, pro-
ceeded to exercise the rights and privileges of Royal Arch Chapters, whenever
they thought it expedient and proper; although in most cases, the approbation
of a neighboring Chapter was deemed useful, if not essential.'
" The Past Master's degree, therefore, was conferred, up to this time, under
the sanction of a Master's warrant. While we find it from this time conferred
under the authority of Grand Chapters, now separate and independent bodies,
as one of the Chapter degrees in course, we do not find that it was therefore lost
to the power by which it had been conferred. History shows the reverse. The
practice from that time has been for the degree to be conferred under the sanc-
tion of a Master's warrant, as formerly, upon those who had been previously
elected to preside over Masters' Lodges.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 301
" It is thus conclusively shown that a surrender of this degree, to be conferred
by the chapters exclusively, was never made.
" But the same is not true in regard to the degrees of Mark Master and Most
Excellent Master, which confirms this view.
"From what has been now adduced, the case stands thus: That the Past
Master's degree may be conferred as heretofore, under its own restrictions — that
is, by Past Masters of Lodges, upon those who shall have been actually elected
to preside over Masters' Lodges; and by Chapters, under their restrictions, in
the due order of their degrees, and not otherwise.
"Let not Chapters serve to qualify in this regard Masters for Masters' Lodges,
of which they are independent, and with which they have no connection, but let
them leave that duty to be performed by those bodies for themselves, through
their own Past Masters; and let the Chapters require that the Mark Master's
degree be the connecting link between Past Masters so made and their own, and
let this link be supplied and presented before the former are admitted among
the Past Masters of the Chapter.
" Thus the distinct boundaries between Masters' Lodges and Royal Arch
Chapters and their Lodges will be preserved, and the rites incident and belong-
ing to each be enforced and enjoyed without any disturbance of the harmony of
our Order.
"To one subject more, presented in the correspondence submitted to them,
and to that only, will your committee at this time direct your attention. It re-
gards a practice that has prevailed to some extent among Lodges, of admitting
to membership a brother who at the time was a member of another Lodge. The
practice is erroneous, and should be promptly interdicted in this jurisdiction.
It is as true in Masonry as elsewhere, that ' no man can serve two masters.'
Whenever tried, the impossibility of rendering a divided allegiance perfect in
each case, becomes at once apparent. The call of one body may lie in exactly
u contrary direction from that of the other, given at the same instance of time.
A member of two or more Lodges may be summoned to appear before each
Lodge with which he is thus connected, on the same evening. How is he then
to fulfill his duties? Which summons should he obey? Out of the very nature
of the case, therefore, fairly considered, has arisen the provision contained in
the earlier, and, very generally, in the modern Masonic constitutions, that 'no
brother shall be a member of more than one Lodge at the same time.'
"The constitution of the Grand Lodge of New Hampshire has the provision as
follows :
'"No brother shall be a member of more than one subordinate Lodge at the
same time.'
" That of Maryland, thus :
"'No Lodge shall admit to membership any brother who is already a member
of a Lodge under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge.'
"That of Missouri, thus:
"'No brother can be a member of inore than one Lodge at the same time.'
" That of Iowa, thus :
"'Each subordinate Lodge under this jurisdiction shall require every Mason
applying for membership therein to present satisfactory evidence to such Lodge
that he has taken a regular demit from the Lodge of which he had last been a.
member, or that such Lodge is no longer in existence.'
"That of Wisconsin, thus:
302 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
'"No brother shall be a member of more than one Lodge.'
"That of Michigan, thus:
"'JS'o Mason can be a member of more than one Lodge at the same time.'
"And many others contain a similar provision; but enough has been adduced
to show that the rule is general, and, it is believed, to induce its adoption by thin
Grand Lodge.
" Cognate with this is the rule that every brother should belong to some regular
Lodge, and so own allegiance to the Masonic Institution. The Masonic constitu-
tions embody it thus :
"'Every brother ought to belong to some regular Lodge, and should always
appear therein properly clothed; truly subjecting himself to the by-laws and
the general regulations. He must attend ail meetings when duly summoned,
uuless he can offer to the Master and Wardens such plea of necessity for his
absence as the said laws and regulations may admit.
'•'By the ancient rules and regulations of Masonry, which are generally adopted
among the by-laws of every Lodge, no plea was judged sufficient to excuse an
absentee, unless he could satisfy the Lodge that he was detained by some extra-
ordinary and unforeseen necessity.' But, in another part, the constitutions are yet
more definite and stringent. Their provision is that ' Every Lodge has the right
to keep itself an entire body; and, therefore, no number of brethren can with-
draw or separate themselves from the Lodge in which they were made, or were
afterwards admitted members, unless such Lodge becomes too numerous for
working; nor even then, unless they pay all the dues to their Lodge, and give
them notice that they intend to apply to the Grand Lodge lor a dispensation to
separate; in which case, if a dispensation be granted, they must either join
themselves to such other Lodge as shall unanimously consent to receive them,
or they must obtain a warrant from the Grand Lodge to form themselves into a
new Lodge.'
"Hence it appears, that while it is made the duty of every Mason to become a
member of some Lodge, no Mason may cease thus to own his allegiance to the
Masonic Institution ; that he may not withdraw from his Lodge, to be a member
of none, but only, either by dispensation or warrant, obtained for the purpose, to
form a new Lodge, or, to join 'such other Lodge as shall unanimously consent to
receive him.' When, therefore, a demit is applied for, in any case, the Lodge to
which the application is made is to consider the reasons for which it is asked,
and to grant it only when they accord with the rule cited. And when granted,
this is the true and simple light in which it is to be regarded,— as a permit from
a Lodge to one of its members, to connect himself with another Lodge. And as regard*
its bearer, his allegiance becomes changed, when the connection which his demit
contemplates, has been formed ; but until then, it remains unchanged, — he is
still de facto, a member of the Lodge of whose permit or demit he is the bearer.
A contrary practice, with which the by-laws of many Lodges are improperly in
harmony, has placed our Masonic Institution, in many parts of this country, in
the anomalous position of a mother having children who own her not ; of a State
having citizens who do not practically recognize their obligations of fealty. It is
owing to a forgetfulness of true principle, that the practice to which reference is
made exists, and that to-day there are scattered well nigh all our land over, men
who have been regularly made Masons, who are unrecognized by any Lodge,
and who, in no wise, practically and effectively, own any Lodge, or the claim*
Upon them for love and duty, of the Masonic Institution.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 303
"Several Grand Lodges have nobly set themselves about the correction of
thin evil. Will not this Grand Lodge co-operate herself, and invite the co-opera-
tion of such other Grand Lodges as have not yet taken up the matter, in en-
deavoring to effect the same? She has once, in effect, so resolved : will she not
remember the same, and govern herself accordingly ?
"The following statistical table, presenting, as far as your committee have
been able to gather (hem, the number of Lodges in the Union, it is thought may
be of some interest in this connection, as showing the general strength and
prosperity of the Masonic institution :
" Maine, has Lodges 58
New Hampshire, " " 20
Massachusetts, " " 52
Rhode Island, " " 19
Connecticut, " " 75
New York, " " 102
New Jersey, " " say 40
Pennsylvania, " " 154
Delaware, " " pay 8
Maryland, " " 86
Virginia, " " 164
District of Columbia, " " say 7
North Carolina, " " 108
South Carolina, " " say 100
Georgia, " " 45
Alabama, " " 50
Florida, " " II
Mississippi, " " 66
Louisiana, " " » 5fi
Texas, " " 25
Arkansas, " " 10
Missouri, " " 50
Tennessee, " " 116
Kentucky, " " 140
Ohio, " " 130
Indiana, " " 42
Illinois, " " 35
Michigan, " " 9
Fowa, " " 9
Wisconsin, " " 8
"Total 1782
"This number multiplied by twenty, the supposed average number of
Masons in each Lodge, will make the number of Masons, in union
with Lodges ; 35,G4<»
" Add to this, for the Masons who are not in union with Lodges, the num-
ber 10,000
" And we have, as the entire number of Freemasons in this country 45,640
" Your committee having brought to a conclusion the task assigned them, may
be permitted to say, before closing this report, that their object has been to ex-
hibit the position of the several Grand Lodges (whose courtesy, in communi-
304 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
eating to this Grand Lodge their proceedings, they have acknowledged), in con-
nection with someone or more topics of general interest and importance. It
has not been understood by them to be any part of their duty to magnify this
Grand Lodge, or to push its claims or those of its measures to notice and respect,
but to select such matters in your correspondence as should seem to require
consideration, and submit them under the conditions in which they might be
found, and amplified and discussed as to your committee should seem good and
proper. While their report is not, therefore, simply statistical, it is hoped that
it. is not open to the complaint that it does not quite fully reflect the acts of sis-
ter Grand Lodges. May the discussion of the several topics noticed in their re-
port not prove unwelcome to this Grand Lodge, or devoid of interest to the Fra-
ternity! If they have said more than was meet in any case, your committee
know that your kindness will bear it; if less, that your intelligence will supply
their lack. They are happy in the assurance that the wide mantle of Masonic
charity is ample as a covert from any displeasure this might occasion, and that
it will find for them at your hands, and those of the Fraternity generally, forgive-
ness for all errors, both in the matter and manner of their report.
" By offering for your adoption the following resolutions having regard to the
subjects discussed herein, and imploring the Supreme Grand Master's favor for
their work, your committee will conclude:
" F. Resolved, That this Grand Lodge is clearly of the opinion that a distinct
avowal of a belief in the divine authenticity of the Holy Scriptures, should be
required of every one who is admitted to the privileges of Masonry; and that a
denial of the same is an offense against the Institution, calling for exemplary
discipline.
" II.' Resolved, That in the opinion of this Grand Lodge, when the deformity of
a candidate for initiation is not such as to prevent him from acquiring an honest
livelihood, being instructed in the arts and mysteries of Masonry, and working
in his Cratt, his admission will not be ah infringement upon the landmarks, bin
will be perfectly consistent with the spirit and present speculative character of
the Institution.
" III, Resolved, That the resolution passed by this Grand Lodge, at a previous
pommunifation, requiring, in effect, that no Lodge within this jurisdiction make
a man a Mason who may be at the time a citizen of another State, and so within
the jurisdiction of another Grand Lodge, or whose residence is nearer another
Lodge in this jurisdiction than that to which he applies, is still in force; and that
the rule herein declared be, and is hereby, adopted for the government of the
Lodges subordinate to this Grand Lodge.
" IV. Resolved, That the territorial limits within which this Grand Lodge
claims exclusive, and beyond which, unless it may be in a State or Territory in
which no Grand Lodge exists, she neither claims nor wilt exercise jurisdiction,
:ire those of the civil jurisdiction of the Slate of Illinois.
"V. Resolved, That this Grand Lodge approves of the formation of a General
Grand Lodge, and invites the co-operation of her sister Grand Lodges, by the ap-
pointment of delegates, to meet in convention, for the purpose of reporting to
the several Grand Lodges a constitution for the government of a General Grand
Lodge, so soon as the same may be approved by a majority of the Grand Lodges ;
and that all former resolutions regarding any convention or cjnventions of Ma-
sons be, and the same are hereby repealed.
"VI. Resolved, That the several Lodges within this jurisdiction be, and they
are hereby, instructed to transact all business in a Lodge of Masters, except the
work and lectures appertaining of necessity to the first and second degrees re-
spectively, which may and must be attended to in a Lodge of E. A. or F. C., as
the case may be.
"VII. Resolv&l, That it is the sense of this Grand Lodge that every Mason has
the inherent right to vote on the admission of all candidates to our Order, and
that the Lodges under this jurisdiction be, and are hereby, instructed to govern
themselves in accordance therewith, by at all times allowing all Master Masons
HISTOKY OF MASON11Y IN ILLINOIS. 305
who may be present to vote on the reception of candidates, and that a unanimous
ballot in favor of an applicant shall be necessary to his admission.
"VI IF. Resolved, That whenever a candidate has been rejected by a subordi-
nate Lodge, he shall not be balloted for again in another Lodge; nor in the same
within twelve months of such rejection; nor thereafter, unless there be present
all who were present at the first balloting, or permission for such second ballot-
ing have been first obtained from the Grand Master.
"IX. Resolved, That this Grand Lodge will conform to and abide by the ancient
rules and regulations of the Fraternity, in all cases wherein the change in the
character of the Institution from 'operative and speculative' to 'speculative only'
has uot indicated the propriety or necessity of a departure therefrom, and will
discountenance all innovation upon and rebellion against the real 'landmarks' of
the Order.
"X. Resolved, That this Grand Lodge deems it inexpedient, at the present
time, to adopt the so-called 'representative system.'
"XT. Resolved, That within this jurisdiction an expulsion or suspension by an
Encampment or Chapter shall be deemed to carry with it an expulsion or sus-
Eension, as the case may be, from the Masonic Institution, unless its decision
e repealed by the tribunal passing the sentence.
"XII. Resolved, That it is the duty of every Mason to belong to some Lodge,
but that no Mason may belong to two Lodges at one and the same time, but that
it is his duty regularly to withdraw from the Lodge to which he belongs before
he makes application for membership in another, and that a certificate of the
Secretary of such Lodge, certifying such withdrawal, shall accompany the ap-
plication, or it shall not be received.
"XIII. Resolved, That this Grand Lodge has great pleasure in acknowledging
the receipt of a beautiful copy of eloquent 'Masonic addresses, by P. G. M. Joseph
R. Chandler,' from the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, through her Grand Secre-
tary, and that information of the same, with thanks for such distinguished
politeness and favor, be communicated to that grand body by the Grand Secre-
tary of this Grand Lodge.
"All of which is respectfully submitted,
"W.F.WALKER, 1
JOHN B. CRANDALL, }• Committee."
LEVI LUSK. j
The Committee on Chartered Lodges submitted an additional report,
as follows :
" The Committee on Returns and Work of Lodges Under Charter, to whom
was referred the resolution in relation to Warsaw Lodge No. 21, have had the
same under consideration, and beg leave to report, that as Warsaw Lodge has
failed to make her regular returns to this Grand Lodge, the committee are unable
to get positive information on the subject, and ask leave to offer the following
resolution:
"Resolved, That all Lodges under this jurisdiction that have failed to make
their annual report, be notified that unless they report by the next annual com-
munication of this Grand Lodge, they shall be deemed to have forfeited their
charters ; and that the Grand Secretary is hereby ordered, in case of such failure,
to demand the same, together with all furniture, books, and papers belonging to
said Lodges.
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
" Z. P. CABANIS. \ Committee M
WILLIAM S. HURST.}0'
The report being adopted, the following was, upon motion of Bro.
Ralston (I), adopted :
—22
306
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"Resolved, That a select committee of two be appointed to apply to Warsaw
Lodge No. 21 for its returns, to examine the same upon the points usually in-
vestigated by the Committee upon Returns and Work of Lodges Under Charter ;
also to ascertain, by any means in their power, whether said Lodge has conferred
any of the degrees upon any person or persons while under indictment, and to
report to the M. W. Grand Master, who shall, at his direction, suspend the charter
of said Lodge till the next annual communication of this Grand Lodge.''
Breth. Lusk (9), and Holton (1), were appointed said committee.
Bro. John Gregory was allowed two dollars per day for his services.
An account for printing circulars and blanks for use of the officers,
was laid upon the table.
The M. W. Grand Master was invested with full power in regard to
the Lodge at Ottawa.
A vote of thanks was tendered Bro. Lusk for the efficient manner in
which the duties of his office had been discharged.
The Grand Secretary was directed to transcribe the proceedings, and
forward the same to the Grand Master, to be published under his
supervision.
It was ordered that a committee of three be appointed to settle with
the Grand Secretary and Treasurer.
Bro. Dickson, Deputy Grand Secretary, made his report as follows :
"A. C. DICKSOX, Grand Secretary, p. t.,
in account with the Grand Lodge of Illinois.
DR.
0
I
1844
"t
1845
Names and Nos. of Lodges.
G. L.
Dues.
G. C.
Fund.
Total.
$13 50
7 50
5 25
21 75
25 50
30 75
17 25
15 75
11 75
21 00
20 25
9 75
8 25
48 75
16 60
12 00
9 00
14 25
15 75
10 50
15 00
17 25
13 50
18 75
8 25
6 75
4 99
Grand
Total.
Temperance Lodge No. 16
$9 00
5 00
3 50
14 50
17 00
20 50
11 50
10 50
7 84
14 00
13 50
6 50
5 50
35 84
11 00
8 00
6 00
9 50
10 50
7 00
10 00
11 50
9 00
12 50
5 50
4 50
3 33
$4 50
2 50
1 75
7 25
8 50
10 25
5 75
5 25
3 91
7 00
6 75
3 25
2 75
12 91
5 50
4 00
3 00
4 75
5 25
3 50
5 00
5 75
4 50
6 25
2 75
2 25
1 66
$410 4'.)
Jefferson " U. D
Bodley " No. 1
Harmony " " 3
Springfield " " 4
Rushville " " 9
Joliet " " 10
Temperance ' " 16
LaFayette ' " 18
Cass ' " 23
Franklin " " 25
Hiram " " 26
Pia«a " " 27
Pekin " " 29
Apollo " ' 32
Oriental " ' 33 ... •
Barry '' ' 34
Charleston ': ' 35
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
Names and Nos. of Lodges.
Where Situated.
Am't rec'd
for Charter?.
37 00
9 50
$465 99
Morning Star Lodge No. 30..
Mount Vernon "• " 31..
Apollo " " 32..
Oriental " " 33..
Barry " " 34..
Canton
$3 00
9 00
9 00
9 00
7 00
Barry
Amount received for Grand Lodge Certificates.
Franklin Lodge No. 25
Alton
$3 50
3 00
3 00
" CONTRA.
" By Grand Secretary's fees for issuing charters to three Lodges $6 00
" Stationery furnished for use of Grand Lodge 3 00
" Amount of balance in my hands 456 99
$465 99
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
"A. C. DICKSON, Grand Secretary, p. t.
41 JACKSONVILLE, October 8th, 1845."
The Committee on Finance reported the account of the Grand Secre-
tary, pro tern., correct, which report was adopted. Following this is the
receipt of the Grand Treasurer for the amount of $457.
Notwithstanding this report of the committee as to the correctness of
the report, the following foot note by Grand Master Walker, is appended
to the page :
" Why the amount of $18.75 ($12.50 as Grand Lodge dues, and $6.25 for the Grand
Charity Fund), paid for and by St. John's Lodge No. 13, at Peru ; and $10 paid tor
and by Friendship Lodge No. 7, at Dixon, its dues in part only, do not appear in
this account, is not stated, nor, as may be seen, do the Committee on Finance
and Accounts, who examined the accounts of the Grand Secretary, p. t., explain
the omission. — O. Master."
The Grand Master was authorized to appoint all committees provided
for in the proceedings that had not been filled.
The Grand Lodge, having directed five hundred copies of the proceed-
ings to be printed and distributed, was closed.
Following the proceedings of this year are Appendices, A, which
includes the returns of the constituent Lodges; B, constitution and
by-laws; C, resolutions in force; D, tabular statement; E, a brief his-
tory of the Grand Lodge from its organization, which we would present
but for its unreliability; F, form of return for constituent Lodges;
G, forms and interrogatories, the latter of which we here present:
308 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"Interrogatories to be affirmatively answered by a candidate, in an adjoining apart-
ment, previous to his initiation.
" I. Do you seriously declare, upon your honor, before these gentlemen,* that
you have never made application to any other Lodge for admission into the
Masonic Institution?!
"II. Do you, upon your honor, before these gentlemen, distinctly avow your
belief in the Divine authenticity of the Holy Scriptures ?J
"III. Do you seriously declare, upon your honor, before these gentlemen,
that unbiassed by friends, and uninfluenced by mercenary motives, you freely
offer yourself a candidate for the mysteries of Masonry?
"IV. Do you seriously declare, upon your honor, before these gentlemen,
that you are prompted to solicit the privileges of Masonry by a favorable opinion
conceived of the Institution, a desire of knowledge, and a sincere wish of being
serviceable to your fellow creatures?
" V. Do you seriously declare, upon your honor, before these gentlemen, that
you will cheerfully conform to all the ancient established usages and customs of
the Fraternity?
H, a list of the Grand Lodges of the United States, with the address of
the Grand Secretaries of the same; I, a list of suspensions, etc., as
reported by the several Grand Lodges.
All this is followed up by a circular letter of the Grand Master, which
is entirely too lengthy to be here'given, except that portion which con-
tains his reply to the circular letter of Harmony Lodge, which will be
given in another place. ,
BODLEY LODGE NO. 1.
Two brethren were raised by this Lodge during the year 1845, viz. :
Charles Albright, June 9; Caspar Ruoff, Dec. 1.
March 9, the Lodge attended the funeral of Bro. Louis Bigwood, who
was buried with the customary ceremonies. April 28, Breth. Ralston
and Crockett were appointed a committee to procure the services of Bro.
Carnegy, of Missouri, to teach the Lodge the work adopted by the Balti-
more Convention, which committee reported May 5th, that Bro. Carnegy
had gone South, whereupon the committee was directed to correspond
with " Bro. Singleton, of St. Louis." June 2, a petition for a Lodge at
Barry, Pike county, was recommended. June 6, the Lodge buried the
remains of Bro. Randal King, hailing from Graham Lodge No. 20,
Republic of Texas, who "died on board the steamboat Boreas, June 4,
11 o'clock P. M.;" and on the evening of the same day buried the
remains of Bro. Abraham Funk. July 5, the Lodge joined with the
citizens in a funeral procession commemorative of the death of Andrew
Jackson. The record also shows that the Lodge assembled on the even-
ing of the day previous, to make arrangements for the funeral of Bro.
* The Stewards of the Lodge are usually present.
fl'his question is rendered necessary by resolution VIII, page 57.
JThis question is rendered necessary by resolution I, page 67.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 309
James Rossell, but no evidence of the Lodge participating in such
funeral is on record. Aug. 21, a committee was appointed to solicit sub-
scriptions for the purpose of building a hall, but no decisive steps appear
to have been taken in the matter. Sept. l,the petition for Herman Lodge
was recommended. At this last meeting, the delegate to the Grand
Lodge was instructed to use his influence in inducing the Grand Lodge
to hold its meetings "at various places." A case of charity presented
to the Lodge was promptly acted on. Dec. 26, officers for the ensuing
year were elected, viz. : James H. Luce, W. M.; John Crockett, S. W.;
Q. L. Barton, J. W.; Enoch Conyers, Treas.; Louis Watson, Sec.; Harri-
son Dills and 0. C. Skinner were appointed Deacons; and W. C. S.
Smith, Tyler.
EQUALITY LODGE NO. 2.
This Lodge held no meetings from September, 1844, to the 24th June,
1845. No work was done, and there is nothing to merit especial men-
tion on the records, with two exceptions. As was the case with almost
all, if not quite all the Lodges in the State, the day upon which the
Lodge received the intelligence of the death of Andrew Jackson was
observed as a day of sorrow. June 24, the following officers were elected :
A. W. Pool, W. M.; T. G. S. Herod, S. W.; J. W. Hamilton, J. W.; Jos.
E. Watkins, Sec.; William Siddall, Treas.; John M. Burnett and Joshua
Bradley, Deacons; John Howard, Tyler. No meetings were held in
September, October, November, and December, 1845.
HARMONY LODGE NO. 3.
The records of this Lodge placed in our possession commence June
28, 1845. From this time to the close of the year, no work in the second
or third degrees was done. On the 28th June, resolutions expressive of
"sincere pain and regret" were passed regarding the death of Andrew
Jackson. The records of the Lodge from this time until the meeting of
Dec. 2, show nothing worthy of especial mention, and as it is not our
intention to reveal the transactions of any Lodge in regard to matters of
trials, we will pass over a great deal of that kind of matter that appears
in the record before us. On the 2d of December the resolutions of Har-
mony Lodge which culminated in the adoption of sections 81 and 82 of
our by-laws, were introduced, referred, and adopted. As it is our inten-
tion to make this matter the foundation for a separate and distinct chap-
ter, we will not present them here.
SPRINGFIELD LODGE NO. 4.
This Lodge conferred the Master's degree during 1845, as follows:
John S. Vredenburg, John P. Richmond, J. H. Adams, Jan. 4; William C.
310 HISTOKY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS.
Murphy, William A. Denning, and Thos. H. Campbell, Jan. 11 ; A. J.
Kain, Jan. 16; J. W. Barrett, Jan. 20 ; Dudley Wickersham, Feb. 17 ,-
Louis Watson and James M. Maxcy, Mar. 26 ; John Van Horn, May 7 r
D. Logan, William A. Dickey, and Josiah Francis, June 24.
Jan. 4, the Lodge resolved to celebrate the 22d February, and on the
llth January Breth. Robinson, J. H. Matheny, McNeill, Frazer, and
Doyle were appointed a committee of arrangements for the same. Feb.
1, the Lodge being desirous of purchasing the building known as the
"Seminary," appointed Breth. McNeill, J. II. Matheny, and Garland a
committee to confer with Springfield Chapter R. A. M., on the subject.
The 22d of February was duly celebrated. The oration on this occasion
was delivered by Bro. J. A. McDougal. March 11, the committee on the
celebration reported a balance in their hands of $2.52, which was
" paid to the widow's fund." July 12, the Lodge joined with the citizens
in a funeral procession commemorative of the decease of Andrew Jack-
son. The oration on this occasion was delivered by Edward D. Baker.
Dec. 1, the following officers were elected : Wm. Lavely, W. M.; Geo.
R. Weber, S. W.; John Uhler, J. W.; A. R. Robinson, Sec.; Maurice
Doyle, Treas.; F. A. McNeil, Master of Ceremonies; James Leggott,
Tyler.
FRIENDSHIP LODGE NO. 7.
This Lodge raised two brethren during this year, viz.: Austin L.
Bull, Jan. 23; J. B. Cheney, Nov. 13.
June 19, the following officers were elected : James Campbell, W. M.;
John B. Nash, S. W.; Charles T. Chase, J. W.; Nathan Morehouse,
Treasurer; Lorenzo Wood, Secretary; Austin L. Bull and Legrand
Wynkoop, Deacons ; Joseph Mason, Tyler.
At the second meeting in December (no date given), the resolutions of
Harmony Lodge, concerning the admission of negroes in certain Chicago
Lodges, were received and referred.
MACON LODGE NO. 8.
Champion D. Butler (April 19) was the only brother raised by this
Lodge during 1845.
The Finance Committee reported that on March 21st there was $6.62
in the treasury. June 24, Bro. Prather presented certain resolutions
relating to the death of Andrew Jackson, which were referred to a com-
mittee of three. The resolutions do not appear on the record, nor is
there any evidence that the committee ever reported. August 2, the
Lodge declined to recommend a petition signed by six Masons, residents
of Charleston, Coles county, until a seventh name had been added, and
cited to them as authority, "Cross' Chart, page 58." August 11, the sev-
enth name having been added, the petition was recommended. Sept.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 311
13, the Lodge declined sending a delegate to the Grand Lodge, unless
such delegate would bear his own expenses. Sept. 26, the delegate to the
Grand Lodge was directed to vote, as to the place of holding the Grand
Lodge, first for Springfield, second, Peoria, and third, Decatur.
Nov. 22, the following officers were elected : Henry Prather, W. M.;
J. Y. Braden, S. W.; E. D. Carter, J. W.; Henry Hummell, Treas.;
W. T. Stimper, Sec'y; George Goodman, Tyler. There is no record of
any appointments.
EUSHVILLE LODGE NO. 9.
The return of this Lodge to the Grand Lodge of 1845, is as follows :
" Jas. L. Anderson, W. M.; John Todhunter, S. W.; Adams Dunlap,
J. W.; James McCroskey, Treas.; Hart Fellows, Sec.; John B. Seeley,
S. D.; John Blackford, J. D.; Thos. I. Garrett, Tyler.
" Past Masters. — Levi Lusk, James L. Anderson, William A. Richard-
son, Hart Fellows.
"Master Masons. — William Davis, Henry Murray, George Edger,
James H. Chick, William Edger, Lewis Horton, Marshal Smith, Peter C.
Vance, Alexander Brazleton,Rensselaer Wells, Josiah Parrott, Columbus
E. Cook, Andrew LaCroix.
" Fellow Crafts. — Joseph Montgomery, W. H. Crawford, Isaac Ewing,
Isaac Greer. Nine Entered Apprentices, one rejected, one suspended,
and one expelled, were reported; also, Samuel M. Hatten, died April
3, 1845 : Abner McDowell, died May 9, 1845."
JOLIET LODGE NO. 10.
The last return this Lodge made as No. 10, is as follows :
Xormand Hawley, W. M.; Joel George, S. W.; William E. Little,
J. W.; James Brodie, Treas.; N. L. Hawley, Sec.; Jared Runyon, S. D.;
Thomas J. Kinney, J. D.; R. G. Cook, Tyler.
Master Masons. — Joel A. Matteson, David L. Gregg, II. G. Brown,
II. Blanchard.
After the close of the Grand Lodge, the charter of No. 10 was annulled
until the annual communication of 1846, and a dispensation issued to
W. E. Little, as W. M.; Myron K. Brownson, S. W.; and Joel George,
J. W., and several others, to form and open a Lodge at Joliet, as "Mount
Joliet," now No. 42.
ST. JOHN'S LODGE NO. 13.
This Lodge raised the following brethren during 1845 : J. B. Lovett,
May 15: L. Oppenheimer, S. Oppenheimer, and R. Oppenheimer,
March 19.
Feb. 17, Bro. Warren Brown entered the following protest:
312 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"That the Lodge, in refusing to admit visiting brethren, when vouched for
by brethren present, who are members of this Lodge, as was done at this meet-
ing, on the ground that the brother vouching, had never sat in a Lodge with
said visiting brethren, and that the Lodge requiring, instead thereof, a com-
mittee to be appointed in such cases to examine said visiting brethren, was un-
masonic and contrary to ancient usage."
This goes to show that the question of avouchment was as little under-
stood as at the present day. Bro. Brown also protested against the
advancement of candidates until they had manifested suitable pro-
ficiency in the degrees already received. March 19, the Lodge being
opened on the F. C. degree, an Entered Apprentice was balloted for to
receive the second degree, and was rejected, and his fee ordered returned.
Immediately thereafter, the Lodge was opened on the Master's degree,
and the same E. A. again balloted for, elected, and passed.
June 19, the following officers were elected: Luther Woodward,
W. M.; T. B. Elliott, S. W.; J. Baxley, J. W.; Wm. Paul, Sec.: J. R.
Merritt, Treas.; T. W. Hennessey and Wm. J. Cox, Deacons : J. R. Mer-
ritt and D. W. Baker, Stewards; A. Kirkpatrick, Tyler. July 17, Bro.
T. J. Wade was affiliated. Dec. 5, John Barney lectured the Lodge, con-
tinuing with the Lodge until Dec. 12.
WARREN LODGE NO. 14.
W. S. West (Oct. 18) was the only brother raised to the sublime de-
gree of Master Mason by this Lodge during 1845.
February 22, the elections were changed from annual to semi-annual.
March 29, two brethren were brought before the Lodge, and called to
answer, the one for having made unmasonic allusions to the other in
stump speeches, the other for retorting through the columns of a news-
paper. Both having made suitable acknowledgments, the matter was
dropped.
May 24, an invitation from Paducah Lodge No. 127, inviting No. 14
to join with them in celebrating St. John's Day, was received, which
was fraternally declined, as the Lodge was under a previous engagement
with Equality Lodge. The semi-annual election resulted as follows :
Edgar Bogardus, W. M.; George Darrah, S. W.; H. H. M. Butt, J. W.:
John L. Campbell, Treas.; J. E. Rearden, Sec.; J. M. Jones and E. J.
Nicholson, Deacons ; the election of Tyler being postponed.
June 21st, the following was adopted :
"Resolved, That the members of this Lodge wear crape on the left arm for the
term of 30 days, as a badge of respect due our well beloved and lately deceased
brother, Andrew Jackson."
July 12th, a " funeral procession " was formed and marched through
the principal streets, as a token of respect to the memory of Andrew
Jackson. On the return of the Lodge to its room, thanks were returned
HISTORY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS. 313
to the " Mt. Vernon (Ind.) Band of Musicians," Shawnee Lodge of I. 0.
0. F., the ladies, and the "citizens generally," for their kindness and
attendance upon the occasion.
Sept. 23, the delegate to the Grand Lodge was directed to vote " for
the Grand Lodge to remain at Jacksonville." The next choice of the
Lodge was Alton.
Dec. 27, semi-annual election. E. R. Roe was elected "W. M.; C. Gold,
S..W.; E. J. Nicholson, J. W.: J. L. Campbell, Treas.; J. E. Rearden,
Sec.; George Darrah and H. H. M. Butt, Deacons, and the latter Steward :
E. Bogardus, Tyler — Bro. Bogardus thus descending from the highest
to the lowest office in the Lodge.
PEORIA LODGE NO. 15.
This Lodge reported but two raisings this year, viz.: Sylvanus Moore,
March 22 ; Comstock, June 23.
At the regular meeting in December, 1844, Bro. Geo. T. Metcalfe was
elected W. M., but declined to serve, his note conveying the declination
being dated Jan. 7, 1845.
Jan. 9, the Lodge held a meeting to fill the vacancy, when Bro. Peter
Sweat was elected.
April 25, relief was extended to a brother hailing from Ancient Land-
Mark Lodge No. 17, Portland, Maine.
May 17, permission was granted Bro. James C. Stewart, a visiting
brother, to bury his son in the Masonic cemetery.
TEMPERANCE LODGE NO. 16.
This Lodge raised but one brother during the year, viz.: David D.
McKee, Feb. 16.
Jan. 13, Bro. H. C. Remann was elected S. W., to fill vacancy caused
by the promotion of Bro. C. H. Hodge, whom the Lodge declared W. M.
vice Bro. Alexander, deceased.
May 12, the Lodge appointed Breth. C. H. Hodge and Gorin a commit-
mittee to report upon the expediency of " compelling" all non-affiliated
Masons to "join the Lodge."
June 9, this committee asked to be discharged, which was done. At this
meeting the following officers were elected "viva voce" : H. C. Remann,
W. M.; W. M. Black, S. W.; D. D. McKee, J. W.; J. T. B. Stapp, Treas.;
Jeremiah Abbott, Sec.; Asahel Lee and John D. Gorin, Deacons; A.
Johnston, Tyler. Bro. Moses Phillips, who had been Tyler from the
organization of the Lodge in 1839, was at this meeting dropped from
among the list of officers.
Sept. 23, the delegate to the Grand Lodge was directed to vote for the
removal of the Grand Lodge from Jacksonville to Springfield. The Lodge
held no meetings in October, November, and December.
314 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
MACOMB LODGE NO. 17.
This Lodge did no work during the year 1845.
February 5, the remains of Bro. Geo. H. Eice were buried with the
usual ceremonies, and on April 27 the same rites were observed as to the
remains of Bro. C. M. Bartleson.
June 23, semi-annual election: William Ervin, W. M.; Jos. E. Wyne,
S. W.; William T. Head, J. W.; P. H. Walker, Sec.; Cyrus A. Lawson,
Treas.; John Anderson, Steward and Tyler.
Dec. 26, the second election was held, resulting as follows : Thomas A.
Brooking was elected W. M.; William T. Head, S. W.; P. H. Walker, J.
W.; C. A. Lawson, Treas.; William Ervin, Sec.; Rezin Naylor, Steward
and Tyler.
LAFAYETTE LODGE NO. 18.
The records of this Lodge from December, 1844, to the year 1852, are
not in our possession. We must, therefore, be content with its returns to
the Grand Lodge and such other information as we may glean outside.
The return for 1845 is here given :
" Carding Jackson, W. M.; M. Taylor, S. W.; Hart L. Stewart, J. W.;
H. W. Bigelow, Treas; C. G. Wicker, Sec.; Isaac P. Hatfield, S. D.;
Thomas Brooks, J. D.; B. Horton and J. L. Thompson, Stewards ; N.
Christy, Tyler.
" R. J. Hamilton and Henry Brown, P. M.
" Master Masons. — William Harmon, Isaac Haight, James A verill, G. B.
Fearing, Samuel McKay, James McGuire, N. F. Butler, Samuel Aikins,
A. Garrett, Leonard Falch, Francis Edwards, J. J. Jackson, L. C. Ker-
cheval, Lot Whitcomb, John Ferns, Abraham Kohn, William Jackson,
John Davis, James Campbell, F. A. Howe, R. T. McMahon,John Black-
stone, Joseph Atkinson, Heman Hatch, J. F. Colby, W. B. Snowhook, A.
Getzler, M. L. Knapp, J. Y. Sanger, D. J. Surdam, V. H. Eachus, J. W.
Dunlap, Levi Rosenfelt, William Lock, Daniel Lyons, V. A. Boyer, W.
B. Smith, Martin Dodge, J. H. Sullivan, D. S. Cady, Joseph Filkins,
Scott Benedict, Mathew Mcllvaine, G. Wetherbee, N. W. Watson, S. J.
Huntley, S. J. Surdam, B. Neichman, Joshua Bell, J. L. Howe, S. J.
Lowe, Jacob Rosenburg, J. A. W. Donahoo, Frederick Weis, W. H. Dob-
son, Isaac N. Arnold, George Chacksfield.
" Died.— Theophilus W. Smith, May 6, 1845 ; Andrew Simpson, Sept. S."
CLINTON LODGE NO. 19.
The return of this Lodge for 1845, is as follows :
" David McMurphy, W. M.; John McNeal, S. W.; Chas. B. Waldo, J.
W.; Jacob West, Treas.; Nathan Dresser, Sec.; Thos. L. Harris and Chas.
G. Brooks, Deacons ; Aaron B. White, Tyler.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 315
" John Bennett, P. M.
"Members. — Lewis B. Wynn, Wm. B. Kirk, A. A. Rankin, Lewis Salzen-
stein, Asa D. Wright, John Bennett, M. S. Morris, John Allen, Samuel
Smith, Julius Oppenheimer, John B. Broadwell, James Short, Robert C.
Scott, Henry Shepherd."
HANCOCK LODGE NO. 20.
This Lodge made no returns in 1845.
WARSAW LODGE NO. 21.
This Lodge, during the year 1845, raised as follows :
W. W. Chittenden and L. Prentice, Jan. 22 ; J. W. Aldrich, Jan. 23 ;
J. Aldrich and C. Cole, Jan. 24 ; Hay, E. F. Chittenden, and S. W.
Brown, Jan. 27; D._Ljnsley., Jan. 28; Robert Miller and J^ M. Charles,
Feb. 18 ; George Rockwell and H. Comstock, Feb. 19 ; John Scott, March
1 ; Levi Williams, March 17 ; S. Warner and J._Mussellman, March 19 ;
Charles C. Stephens, Sept. 8; J. Galloway, Dec. 8.
June 24, annual election: M. Aldrich was elected. W. M.; W. H.
Roosevelt, S. W.; Robert Miller, J. W.; Georgs Rockwell, Treas.; E. F.
Chittenden, Sec.; J. W. Aldrich and S. W. Brown, Deacons; John Scott
and C. Cole, Stewards ; German Andrews, Tyler.
Sept. 8, Bro. John Montague was appointed delegate to the Grand
Lodge, and directed to vote for Jacksonville, as the place of holding the
meeting of the Grand Lodge, and to vote for an appropriation from the
Grand Lodge to each subordinate Lodge for the support of common
schools.
MILWAUKEE LODGE NO. 22.
This Lodge made no returns for the year 1845.
CASS LODGE NO. 23.
James McKeever, June 23; John B. Taylor and Richard F. Kippin-
burg, Aug. 1; George Moore, Sept. 3 ; C. Sprague, Nov. 18 ; Newman,
Dec. 27, were raised during this year. Breth. John McKeown and V. A.
Turpin, appear to have been raised, but no record of the fact appears.
At the raising of Bro. McKeever, Bro. Lusk presided, with Bro. An-
derson as Senior Deacon. No meetings were held by the Lodge between
August 27, 1844, and Feb. 20, 1845. At the latter meeting, the following
officers were elected : P. Underwood. Jr., W. M.; Geo. B. Thompson, S.
W.; Thomas Eyre, J. W.; James Knowles, Treas.; Wm. J. DeHaven,
Sec. Bro. Lusk presided at every meeting of the Lodge save two, du-
ring the year, and was undoubtedly the means of its still continuing to
work.
316 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
ST. CLAIR LODGE NO. 24.
This Lodge reported the following raisings during 1845 : Augustus
Warner, April 22 ; N. Huley, May 1 ; Wm. M. Parker, May 5 ; John G.
Sparks, May — ; F. Powers, May 20; J. N". Banks, July 29.
Feb. 17, the Lodge, "at his especial request, made before his death,"
buried the remains of Bro. Charles Cummins. May 5, a gold medal, be-
longing to " Bro. Goings, left in pledge with Mr. Mitchell," was re-
deemed by the Lodge, and ordered forwarded to the owner.
June 19, the following officers were elected : T. Hinckley, W. M.; C. G.
Y. Taylor, S. W.; Geo. Kelly, J. W.; Julius Eaith, S. D.; John Mace, J.
D.; Alex. Reany, Sec.; Wm. M. Parker, Treas.; David Wilver, Tyler ; G.
W. Hook, Marshall.
Sept. 23, the delegate to the Grand Lodge was directed to vote, as the
place of holding the Grand Lodge, first, for Jacksonville; second, Quincy;
third, Springfield.
Dec. 9, the second election of the year took place, resulting as follows ;
Alex. Reany was elected W. M.; T. Hinckley, S. W.; George Kelly, J.
W.; C. G. Y. Taylor, Sec.; W. G. Goforth, Treas.; Julius Raith, S. D.;
Wm. M. Parker, J. D.; David Wilver, Tyler ; G. W. Hook, Marshal.
FRANKLIN LODGE NO. 25.
The first return of this Lodge to the Grand Lodge was made in 1844,
and, as before stated, the returns are all the information we are able to
give concerning this Lodge. The return for 1845 is as follows:
" Charles Howard, W. M.; Harvey S. Summers, S. W.; John Higham,
J. W.; George Lebold, Treas.; John Bostwick, Sec.; D. F. Wendell and
George Willis, Deacons ; D. M. Kittinger, Tyler; John Higham, P. M.
" Members. — Luther W. Lyons, Jacob Rader, Caleb K. Burgoyne, Elihu
Pembroke."
HIRAM LODGE NO. 26.
The records of this Lodge for the year 1844 are lost, as is a portion of
1845. The record before us commences with the 17th of July, 1845.
But one brother was raised during 1845, as far as the record before
us shows, viz.: Samuel G. Dean, Nov. 8.
PIASA LODGE NO. 27.
This Lodge raised the following brethren during 1845 : Geo..T. Brown,
Feb. 8 ; Charles Cook, Feb. 14 ; J. A. J. Blair, Mar. 8 ; Peter Overdear,
April 1 ; J. A. Prickett, June 20 ; B. E. Edwards, Aug. 26.
Mar. 25, the. Treasurer resigned, and on the llth April the Master fol-
lowed suit, whereupon the following resolutions were passed :
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 317
"Resolved, That the thanks of this Lodge are due to Bro. David Allen, our last
Worshipful Master, for the impartiality, constancy, and dignity, with which he
has presided over us, and for the prudent zeal he has ever manifested in our
prosperity.
"Resolved, That while we regret the removal of our late W. M. from our city,
we feel great pleasure in the assurance established by his residence with us,
that wherever he may go, he will carry the heart and soul of a Mason, worthy
of the fullest confidence of every member of the Fraternity.
April 22, the following election was held : Timothy Souther, W. M.;
J. W. Schweppe, S. W.,- J. E. Ketcham, J. W.; Geo. T. Brown, Sec.;
I. Hardy, Treas. June 20, the Secretary resigned, and Bro. L. F. Morin
was elected to fill the vacancy. These instances of resignation are here
noted to show that the right of an officer of a constituent Lodge, how-
ever much doubted or denied in these latter days, was, as late as 1845,
and later, for that matter, fully recognized. Dec. 20, the second election
of the year was held, resulting in the election of T. Souther, W. M.;
J. W. Schweppe, S. W.; J. C. Ketcham, J. W.; Charles Cook, Treas.,-
N. G. Edwards, Sec.; and the following appointments: Geo. T. Brown
and A. Watson, Deacons; I. Hardy, Tyler.
The thanks of the Lodge were then voted Bro. Souther, and eight dol
lars voted as a compensation for his services as Master.
As we are in daily expectation of the receipt of the records of the-
following Lodges, Nos. 28, 29, 30, 31, 33, 34, and 35, we will defer mention
of them until they shall have been received.
OCCIDENTAL LODGE, U. D., AT OTTAWA.
The dispensation for this Lodge was granted by the Grand Lodge of
Kentucky in 1838. The Lodge took no part in the formation of the-
Grand Lodge, nor had it a representative there until 1846. What the
Lodge was, from the time the Grand Lodge of Kentucky surrendered
control over the same until its formal recognition by our Grand Lodge,,
we can not say, as the record before us dates from Nov. 28, 1845.
John D. Caton and M. H. Swift were raised Dec. 11, John Barney pre-
siding, as he also did Nov. 29, when the above brethren and Bro. Leland
were passed.
Mount Moriah, Clinton, and Marion Lodges made no returns to th&
Grand Lodge of Missouri for the year 1845.
CHAPTER XIX.
1846.
GRAND LODGE.
The Seventh Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge was held in
the city of Peoria, commencing Monday, Oct. 5, 1846. The following
grand officers were present :
" NELSON D. MORSE, Dep. Gr. Master, and Grand Master, p. t.
WILLIAM LATELY, Sr. Gr. Warden, p. t.
HARRISON DILLS, Jr. Gr. Warden, p. t.
Rev. CHARLES HOWARD, Gr. Chaplain, p. t.
JAMES L. ANDERSON, Gr. Treasurer.
LEVI LUSK, Gr. Secretary, and P. G. M.
TIMOTHY SOUTHER, Sr. G. Deacon, p. f.
ADAM BREWER, Jr. Gr. Deacon, p. t.
JOHN BARNEY, Gr. Lecturer.
JOHN C. HEYL, \R ctewflrd<!
SAMUEL H. DAVIS, } Gr- st
RICHARD F. KIPPINBURG, Gr. Pursuivant.
FREDERICK SEMELROTH, Gr. Tyler, p. t.
" REPRESENTATIVES :
"James H. Luce, W. M., Bodley, No. 1.
Harrison Dills, proxy, S. W.,
William W. Happy, W. M., Harmony, No. 3.
William Lavely, W. M., Springfield, No. 4.
A. R. Robinson, proxy, S. W.,
James H. Matheny, proxy, J. W.,
James L. Anderson, proxy, W. M., Rushville, No. 9.
Levi Lusk, proxy, J. W.,
William Mitchell, W. M., Peoria, No. 15.
Frederick Semelroth.pro.ri/, S. W., "
William Darst, J. W., " "
Carding Jackson, W. M., LaFayette, No. 18.
William Lavely, proxy, W. M.. Clinton, No. 19.
James H. Luce, proxy, W. M , Warsaw, No. 21.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 319
" Richard F. Kippinburg, W. M., Cass, No. 23.
George Moore, proxy, J. W., " "
Charles Howard, W. M., Franklin, No. 25.
William McMurtry, W. M., Hiram, No. 20.
Timothy Souther, W. M., Piasa, No. 27.
John Bailhaehe, proxy, S. W., " "
Levi Lusk, proxy, W. M., Monroe, No. 28.
Adam Brewer, W. M., Morning Star, No. 30.
George Wike, J. W., Barry, No. 34.
Levi Lusk, proxy, W. M., Charleston, No. 35.
A. C. Dickson, proxy, S. W., " "
Josiah Riley, proxy, W. M., Kavanaugh, U. D.
Daniel McNeil, proxy, W. M., Monmouth, U. D.
William E. Russell, proxy, W. M., Olive Branch, U. D.
Levi Lusk, proxy, W. M., Herman, U. D.
Bro. Peter Sweat, Past Master, No. 15.
" VISITORS :
"S. De Witt Drown, Peoria, No. 15.
E. Andrew, " "
Stephen A. Douglas, Springfield, No. 4.
Philo Beers, " "
James Price, Hiram, No. 26.
I. Hill, Cass, No. 23.
The Grand Lodge was opened in due form.
The reading of the minutes having been dispensed with, the Grand
Master pro tern, reported verbally as follows :
" BRETHREN: — I am not prepared to give you any information of interest upon
the prospects of our Ancient Institution abroad, or even under our own juris-
diction, further than that from verbal report, I have learned that the Lodges
subordinate to this Grand Lodge are prosperous and flourishing. Since my
arrival at this place, I have been informed that it is probable that our M. W.
Grand Master Walker is detained from meeting with us by sickness in his
family. I hope he will forward to this Grand Lodge a report of his actings and
doings, which, if received, will with great pleasure be laid before you for con-
sideration."
He then announced the following standing committees :
On Returns and Work of Chartered Lodges. — Breth. Mitchell (15), Mc-
Murtry (26), and Jackson (18).
On Returns and Work of Lodges Under Dispensation. — Breth. Happy (.'!),
Dills (1), and Robinson (4).
On Petitions and Grievances. — Breth. Anderson (9), Lavely (4), and
Happy (3).
On Finance and Accounts. — Breth. Souther (27), Brewer (30), and Rus-
sell (Olive Branch U. D).
On Foreign Correspondence. — Breth. Lusk (9), Luce (1), and Matheny
W-
To Examine Visiting Brethren. — Breth. Heyl and Davis (both 15).
320 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
The following communication was received from Bro. Dickson :
" To the Most Worshipful Grand Master, Grand Wardens, and Brethren:
"The undersigned would respectfully represent to this Grand Lodge, that he
feel that great injustice has been done him by the Most Worshipful Grand
Master, William F. Walker, in a note appended to the account current of the
undersigned, as Grand Secretary pro tern., for 1840, respecting $18.75, Grand
Lodge dues and Grand Charity Fund for St. John's Lodge No. 13, and also $10
from Friendship No. 7. He would therefore petition that a committee be ap-
pointed to inquire into the facts in the case, and report the same to the Grand
Lodge at this session.
The petition for a committee was granted, and the matter referred to
Breth. Anderson, Howard, and Dills.
The following resolutions of Bodley Lodge were presented by Bro.
Dills, and made the special order for the evening session :
"Resolved, That our delegate to the Grand Lodge of Illinois, at its session on
the first Monday of October next, be instructed to use his influence to have
Resolution No. 1, on page 57, of printed proceedings for the year 1845, rescinded.
"Resolved, That he be instructed to use his influence to have Resolution No.
7 rescinded.
"Resolved, That he be instructed to use his influence to have Resolution No.
11 on page 58, of printed proceedings, rescinded.
"Resolved, That he be instructed to use his influence to have the resolution on
the bottom of page 13, of printed proceeding?, rescinded, and that a ballot be
had in every degree.
The resolution provided for one ballot for the three degrees.
"Resolved, That every Lodge under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of
Illinois, should be required to return the names of all Master Masons in regu-
lar standing under its jurisdiction, to the Grand Lodge of Illinois.
The resolutions referred to, were as follows :
No. 1. "Resolved, That this Grand Lodge is clearly of the opinion that a distinct
avowal of a belief in the divine authenticity of the Holy Scriptures should be
required of every one who is admitted to the privileges of Masonry; and that
a denial of the same is an offence against the Institution calling lor exemplary
discipline.
No. 7. "Resolved, That it is the sense of this Grand Lodge, that every Master
Mason has the inherent right to vote on the admission of all candidates to our
Order; and that the Lodges under this jurisdiction, be, and are hereby in-
structed to govern themselves in accordance therewith, by at all times allowing
all Master Masons, who may be present, to vote on the reception of candidates;
and that an unanimous ballot in favor of an applicant shall be necessary to his
admission.
No. 11. "Resolved, That within this jurisdiction an expulsion or suspension by
an Encampment (Commandery) or Chapter, shall be deemed to carry with it an
expulsion or suspension, as the case may be, from the Masonic Institution, un-
less its decision be repealed by the tribunal passing the sentence.
A petition for a new Lodge at Peoria was received and referred to the
Committee on Lodges U. D.
Breth. Mitchell (15), Heyl (15), and Lavely (4), were appointed a com-
mittee to inquire into the expediency of having a procession and oration
at this session of the Grand Lodge.
The Grand Lodge then adjourned to 2 o'clock P. M.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 321
MONDAY AFTERNOON, Oct. 5, 1846.
Present, as in the morning, with the following additions:
"JOHN R. CRANDALL, J. G. W.
PHILIP COFFMAN, P. M., No. 3.
WM. H. HOLMES, W. M., No. 29.
LEV! OPPENHEIM.pran/ W. M., No. 13.
ROBERT SMITH, Miami No. 46, Ohio, visiting."
The Grand Secretary read a communication from Far "West Lodge No.
29, notifying the Grand Lodge that it had surrendered its charter from
the Grand Lodge of Missouri, and asking for a charter from the Grand
Lodge of Illinois, which was referred to the Committee on Chartered
Lodges. Previous to petitioning the Grand Lodge of Illinois for a char-
ter, Far West Lodge had petitioned for and received a charter from the
Grand 'Lodge of Wisconsin, which Grand Lodge, at the same time,,
granted a dispensation for a new Lodge at Elizabeth, Jo Daviess county
(now Kavanagh Lodge No. 36); but upon Grand Master Walker taking
the matter promptly in hand, as an invasion of jurisdiction, the Grand
Lodge of Wisconsin rescinded her action in the premises; whereupon a-
dispensation was granted the Lodge at Elizabeth, and Far West applied
for a charter.
The accounts of the Grand Treasurer were presented, and referred to-
the proper committee.
The Committee on Lodges U. D. reported the returns of Kavanagh,
Monmouth, and Olive Branch correct, and recommended charters to
issue to the Lodges named as Nos. 3fi, 37, and 38, which was concurred
in, as was a recommendation that George T. Metcalfe and others be
granted a dispensation for a new Lodge at Peoria.
The committee appointed at the last preceding communication, to
make a general report of all the receipts and expenditures of the Grand
Lodge, from the time of its organization, made report, which was referred
to the Committee on Finance and Accounts.
The committee appointed to inquire into the expediency of having a
procession and an oration, offered resolutions to the effect that Bro.
James H. Matheny, in the absence of the Grand Orator (Bro. William
Stuart), would deliver an oration in the Methodist church, on Wednes-
day; that the installation of officers take place immediately after the
oration, and that a procession be formed, and observe a route as follows :
'•' From the lodge-room down Fulton to Water, thence to Main, up Main
to Jefferson, on Jefferson to Fulton, on Fulton to the church ; returning,
from the church on Fulton to Madison, on Madison to Main, down Main
to Washington, thence to the lodge-room."
The resolutions were adopted.
—23
322 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
Breth. Howard, Crandall, and Dickson were appointed a committee to
report all unfinished business from the proceedings of the last annual
communication.
On motion of the Grand Secretary, Josiah Eiley, Daniel McNeil, and
William E. Russell were invited to seats as the representatives of Lodges
36, 37, and 38.
The Grand Treasurer (Bro. Anderson) offered the following :
" Resolved, That it is the sense of this Grand Lodge, that the suspension of a
Lodge by the Grand Lodge does not affect the Masonic standing of [its] mem-
bers.
The resolution was referred to Breth. Morse (G. M.), Lavely (S. G. W.),
Crandall (J. G. W.), John Barney, and Carding Jackson.
On motion of Bro. McMurtry, the resolutions of Bodley Lodge were
taken up and referred to the Committee on Unfinished Business.
Breth. Barney and Jackson then exemplified the first and second
degrees, after which the Grand Lodge adjourned to 7 o'clock P. M.
MONDAY EVENING, Oct. 5, 1846.
The Grand Lodge met pursuant to adjournment. Present, as in the
afternoon, with the addition of C. G. Y. Taylor, proxy S. W. No. 24.
Bro. Barney presented a proxy from the W. M. of No. 33, and was
admitted as the representative of that Lodge.
A communication from the M. W. Grand Master was received, read,
and so much as related to Lodges was referred to the Committee on
Chartered Lodges, and the remainder to Breth. Taylor (24), McNeil (37),
and Mitchell (15).
A circular, announcing the death of M. W. Alexander H. Bobertson,
Grand Master of New York, with various other documents, was referred
to the Committee on Foreign Correspondence.
After prayer by the Grand Chaplain, the Grand Lodge was adjourned
to 8 o'clock Tuesday morning.
TUESDAY MORNING, Oct. 6, 1846.
The Grand Lodge met pursuant to adjournment. Present, as on the
day previous, with the addition of R. W. and Rev. Charles V. Kelly,
Grand Chaplain, and proxy for W. M. Occidental Lodge U. D. Bro.
Carding Jackson was also recognized as the representative of No. 32, he
holding the proxy of the Master of that Lodge. Bro. Benjamin Hibbard
(Ilebard), of Monmouth Lodge, was admitted.
Bro. Crandall asked to be excused from serving on the committee
appointed to consider the resolutions of Bodley Lodge, which was
granted, and Bro. John Bailhache (27), appointed in his stead.
HISTORY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS. 323
The Committee on Finance and Accounts reported the accounts of the
Grand Treasurer correct.
The Grand Treasurer's report was as follows :
"JAMES L. ANDERSON, Treasurer, d-c., in account with
the Grand Lodge of Illinois. Dr.
" Oct. 8th, 1845, to amount received of Bro. Coffman, late Grand Treas $362 26
" " " " " " " A. C. Dickson, G. 8. p. t., '45 45700
" " " " " " " Bro. Lusk, G. S 30 00
" " 1846 " " " " " " " 35 00
"Total $884 26
CONTRA. Cr.
" Oct. 8th, 1845, by amount paid C. W. Chatterton for jewels, as per voucher
No. 1 .$102 25
•" Oct. 9th, 1845, by amount paid W. M's Oriental and Apollo Lodgas, as per
voucher No. 2 12 00
" Oct. 9th, 1845, by amount paid W. M. Hiram Lodge, as per voucher No. 3. 4 00
«' " " " " Piasa " " " " 4. 6 00
" " " " " Warren " " " "5. 6 00
" " " " Grand Tyler " " " 6. 9 28
" " " " G. S. p. t. " " " 7. 10 00
" Nov. 15th, " " " G. Master's order " " " 8. 100 00
" Mar. 5th, 1846, " " in part for printing proceedings " 9. 116 15
"Apr. 27th, " " " " " " " 100 00
"Amount to balance , ... 418 58
"Total $884 26
" Oct. 5th, 1846, balance in hands of Grand Treasurer, $418.58.
" All of which is respectfully submitted,
"JAMES L. ANDERSON, G. T."
The Committee on Chartered Lodges reported the returns of Nos. 24,
25, 32, 33, and 34 correct.
Breth. Matheny, Dills, and Jackson were appointed a committee to
report on the expediency of loaning Bro. C. W. Chatterton a sum of
money for a term of years, without interest, said sum to be loaned from
the Grand Charity Fund.
The Grand Lodge then went into an election of officers, which resulted
as follows :
NELSON MORSE, Henderson, M. W. Grand Master.
WILLIAM LAVELY, Springfield, R. W. Deputy Grand Master.
JOHN R. CRANDALL. Peoria, R. W. Senior Grand Warden.
ADAM BREWER, Canton, R. W. Junior Grand Warden.
JAMES L. ANDERSON, Rushville, R. W. Grand Treasurer.
At this stage of the election, a motion, made to suspend further
balloting until the Grand Lodge should have fixed the place for the next
annual communication, was lost, and the election proceeded:
324 HISTOKY OF MASONEY IN ILLINOIS.
"LEVI LUSK, Rushville, M. W. Grand Secretary.
Rev. WM. F. WALKER, Chicago, M. W. Grand Orator.
Rev. CHARLES V. KELLY, Ottawa, R. W. Grand Chaplain.
DAVID M. KITTINGER, Upper Alton, W. Grand Tyler."
The Grand Lodge then adjourned to 2 o'clock P. M.
TUESDAY AFTERNOON, Oct. 6, 1846.
The Grand Lodge met pursuant to adjournment.
Present: Officers, members, and visitors as in the morning.
The committee to whom was referred the communication of Bro. Dick-
son, reported as follows :
"The committee to whom was referred the complaint of Bro. A. C. Dicksonr
the Grand Secretary, pro tern., at the last Grand Annual Communication, beg
leave to report: That they have examined the subject and find that the note
appended by the Grand Master to Bro. Dickson's account is not warranted by
the state of facts, as it appears that the amounts referred to never went into
the hands of Bro. Dickson. The amount said to have been paid by St.
John's Lodge No. 13, was in fact paid by that Lodge to Bro. Warren, the then
Grand Secretary, by remittance through the mail, and by him acknowledged in
a letter now in the possession of St. John's Lodge.
" The other amount of $10, said to have been paid by Friendship Lodge No. 7,
to Bro. Dickson, was not paid to Bro. Dickson, as indicated by the Grand Mas-
ter's note, but was received by Bro. Lusk, the Grand Secretary, by mail, after
the adjournment of the last Grand Lodge, in a letter addressed to the Grand
Secretary, consequently could not have been acknowledged by Bro. Dickson.
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
" JAMES L. ANDERSON, ~>
CHAS. HOWARD, V Committee:'1
3. R. LUCE. 1
The report was accepted.
The Committee on Chartered Lodges reported the returns of Xos. 1, 3,
4, 18, 19, 21, 23, 26, and 28 correct and dues paid.
The committee appointed to inquire into the expediency of loaning a
sum of money to Bro. C. W. Chatterton, reported a resolution to the effect
that the Grand Master be authorized to loan the said brother one hun-
dred dollars, without interest, upon his giving a note with approved se-
curity, to the Grand Master, with the express understanding that if
desired, the note was to be renewed at the end of the year, unless the
Grand Lodge otherwise ordered.
The resolution was adopted.
The Committee on Finance and Accounts reported as follows
"The Committee on Finance and Accounts, to whom was referred the Grand
Treasurer's statement of the Grand Lodge, in account with the Grand Charity
Fund, ask leave to refer the same back again to the Grand Lodge, there beinc;
no means, so far as your committee are informed, whereby they can judge of
its accuracy. Your committee would however respectfully recommend that
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 325
the Grand Treasurer be directed to open an account with the Grand Charity
Fund, and keep it separate from all the other funds of the Grand Lodge.
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
"TIMOTHY SOUTHER. 1
WM. E. RUSSELL, Y Committee."
ADAM BREWER. j
Bro. Dills was excused from further service on the Committee on Lodges
U. D., and his place supplied by Bro. Crandall.
At this part of the session, the special committee to whom was referred
so much of the Grand Master's report as related to Harmony Lodge,
made their report. This report grew out of the circular letter issued by
Harmony Lodge regarding the admission of negroes into the Lodges in
Chicago. Inasmuch as this whole matter will be presented in a chapter
by itself, we will omit the report of the committee at this time. The
committee making the report was C. G. Y. Taylor (24), afterwards Grand-
Master,- Win Mitchell (15), afterwards Grand Secretary; and Daniel
McNeil (37), afterwards Grand Lecturer.
After the adoption of this report, the Grand Lodge was adjourned to
7 o'clock P. M.
TUESDAY EVENING, Oct. 6, 184C.
The Grand Lodge met pursuant to adjournment.
Present: As in the afternoon, with the addition of Webb C. Quigley,
proxy S. W. No. 29. Bills for charters and circulars, amounting to $24,
were allowed and ordered paid.
The Committee on Lodges U. D. reported the returns and work of Her-
man Lodge correct, and praised the Lodge for the excellent manner
in which the records of the Lodge were kept; reprobated the practice of
conferring degrees "on credit," and recommended a charter as No. 39,
which was concurred in, and Bro. Lusk admitted as proxy of the W. M.
Breth. Mitchell, McMurtry, and Anderson were appointed a committee
to make arrangements for the procession of the morrow (Wednesday),
and to prepare a programme.
The city of Quincy was then selected, by ballot, as the place for hold-
ing the next annual communication.
A motion to allow Bro. A. C. Dickson, Deputy Grand Secretary for
1845, an additional compensation of $10, was referred to Breth. Happy,
McNeil, and Dills.
The Committee on Unfinished Business made a report, which was laid
over for consideration.
The Grand Lodge was then adjourned to 8 o'clock Wednesday morn-
ing.
326 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
WEDNESDAY MORNING, Oct. 7, 1846.
Present : As on the preceding day.
The M. W. Grand Master elect announced the following appointments :
"JAMES PRICE, Henderson, Deputy Grand Secretary.
A. C. DICKSON, Jacksonville, Sr. Gr. Deacon.
B. P. KIPPENBURG, Beardstown, Jr. Gr. Deacon.
WILLIAM McMURTRY, Henderson, Grand Marshal.
HARRISON DILLS,) oi ft . «tpwflrd«
HENRY KAUSSEL, j ^umcy' Orrand
PETER SWEAT, Peoria, Grand Sword Bearer.
ARNOLD R. ROBINSON, Springfield, Gr. Pursuivant.
CARDING JACKSON, Chicago, Gr. Lecturer."
An order passed at the grand communication of 1845, appropriating
$75 to the Grand Secretary (W. B. Warren), was rescinded, and orders-
for $37.50 each ordered to issue to Breth. Warren, Grand Secretary, and
Dickson, Deputy.
Breth. Mitchell, Dills, and Dickson were appointed a committee to set-
tle the accounts of the late Grand Secretary (Bro. Warren), and to report
at the next grand communication.
The Committee on Returns and Work of Lodges U. D. recommended
the issuing of a charter to Occidental Lodge No. 40, which was concurred
in, and Bro. Kelly was invited to a seat as the representative thereof.
Tha Committee on Chartered Lodges reported the returns and work of
Nos. 9, 15, 27, 29, and 30 correct.
The Committee on Finance and Accounts reported as follows :
"The committee to whom was referred the statements of the Grand Treasurer
and Secretary, return them herewith to the Grand Lodge, and remark that it is
utterly impossible for your committee to form any opinion as to the correctness
of the statements, on account of the very loose manner in which the accounts of
the Grand Lodge have heretofore been kept. We would therefore respectfully
recommend that the Grand Secretary procure a substantial book in which he
shall open an account with each Lodge under this jurisdiction, and in which he
shall carefully credit them for such sums of money as they shall from time to
time pay to the Grand Lodge, stating for what purpose it was paid, whether for
Grand Lodge dues, charity fund, dispensation, or charter, as the case may be,
and that these several accounts be balanced each year, and, together with the
accounts of the Grand Treasurer, be audited by the Committee on Finance and
Accounts, which committee shall be required to make a report of the true con-
dition of the finances and other property of the Grand Lodge, as wall as any
sums that may be due from subordinate Lodge.
"All of which is respectfully submitted,
(Signed) "TIMOTHY SOUTHER. ~)
ADAM BREWER, }- Committee."
WM. E. RUSSELL. j
The report was accepted and the recommendation adopted :
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 327
" On motion of Bro. Lavely, the Grand Lodge then took up and read
the report of the Committee on Unfinished Business, and disposed of
each item in the order of reading."
The first "item" was the resolution striking out Monday as the day
of meeting, and inserting Wednesday, which was lost.
The second, to amend the by-laws, by providing that the annual com-
munication should be held first Monday in June instead of October, was
lost; a like amendment as regarded the month, but differing as to the
day, which was the fourth Wednesday, was also lost. The proposition
that the Lodges should pay two dollars for each raising, was lost. The
resolution providing that the Grand Lodge should designate, at each an-
nual communication, the place for holding the next meeting, was adopted.
A motion to strike out " Jacksonville," as the place of meeting and in-
sert " Decatur," was lost. On motion of Bro. Lavely, all amendments
to the constitution were ordered to lie over one year, and the Grand Sec-
retary directed to notify the subordinate Lodges of the fact.
Bro. W. W. Happy (3), offered an amendment to the by-laws, intended
to permanently locate the Grand Lodge at some point, to be by it chosen.
The following, offered by Bro. Sweat, was adopted :
'• Resolved, That this Grand Lodge recommend to the Lodges under her juris-
diction, to suspend all members who neglect to pay their dues for the term of
one year.
The Grand Lodge then adjourned until 2 o'clock P. M.
WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON, Oct. 7, 1840.
The Grand Lodge met pursuant to adjournment.
Present : As in the morning.
Bro. Dills offered the following, which was adopted :
" Resolved, That a committee be appointed to wait upon R. W. Bro. Moses
Johnson, Grand Secretary, of the Grand Lodge of Texas, now in Peoria, and in-
vite him to take a seat in this Grand Lodge.
Breth. Dills and Howard were appointed the committee, who intro-
duced the R. W. Brother in an appropriate manner. Of course there were
some speeches made, words of welcome uttered, and thanks returned —
indeed, the record before us shows that much brotherly feeling prevailed.
The committee to whom was referred the resolutions of Bodley Lodge
(heretofore given), reported, which report was for the time being laid on
the table. Breth. Dickson and Happy, of Jacksonville, were granted
leave of absence. In these days, that is a thing that is rarely asked for
— they go anyhow.
328 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
The Grand Lodge (having adjourned) then proceeded to the Methodist
church, where the officers were installed, and an oration delivered by
Bro. James H. Matheny. Upon the return of the Grand Lodge to its
place of meeting, a vote of thanks was tendered Bro. Matheny, upon
motion of Bro. Anderson. The following was adopted :
"Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Grand Lodge, the note appended to
appendix 1), in printed proceedings of the last annual communication, in jela-
tion to money not accounted for by the late D. G. Master, (Carding Jackson) is
a mistake, and was not sanctioned by this Grand Lodge at its communnicatiou
i:. 1845.
The Grand Lodge then adjourned to 7 o'clock P. M.
WEDNESDAY EVENING, Oct. 7, 184G.
The Grand Lodge met pursuant to adjournment, Bro. Lavely presiding.
Present: As in the afternoon.
The Committee on Chartered Lodges reported that the work and re-
turns of Charleston Lodge had been examined, and that the work had
been hastily done, there being an instance of one person having been
initiated, passed, and raised at the same meeting. But in consideration
of the fact that the applicant was about to "join the army " (Mexican
war), the committee decided it was a clear case of emergency, and the
return of the Lodge was received. The returns of No. 7, for 1845, were
pronounced correct.
In conclusion, the committee asked to be discharged from further con-
sideration of that part of the Grand Master's report which was referred
to them, which request was granted, and Breth. Kelly (40), Sweat (15),
and McNeil (37), were appointed in the place of the committee dis-
charged.
Bro. Anderson offered the following, which was adopted :
"Resolved, That it is the sense of this Grand Lodge, that no money is author-
ized to be drawn fiom the Treasury but on the order of the Grand Master, with
the consent of the Grand Lodge, which consent shall be signified by test of the
Grand Secretary.
The report of the committee on the resolutions of Bodley Lodge, was
taken up for consideration.
Bro. Kelly (40), moved that the report lay on the table until the next
annual communication, which was lost.
The matter seems to have been dropped at this time, for immediately
following the motion of Bro. Kelly appears the report of the Committee
on Finance and Accounts, as regarded the accounts of the Grand Secre-
tary, which were found correct. The Grand Secretary's account we
here present :
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
LEVI LUSK, Secretary, &c., in account with
the Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois.
Dr.
Names and numbers of Lodges.
No. of
m'mb'rs
1815.
Friendship No. 7 30
Warsaw No. 21 37
1846.
Bodley No. 1 30
Equality No. 2 16
Harmony No. 3 27
Springfield No. 4 40
liushville No. 9 3t
St. John's No. 13 27
Warren No. 14 24
PeoriaNo.15 41
Lafayette_ No. 18 61
Clinton No. 19 19
Warsaw No. 21 215
Cass No. 23 28
St. Clair No. 24 20
Franklin No. 25 15
Hiram No. 26 21
Piasa No. 27 29
Monroe No. 28 i6
Pekin No. 29 27
.Morning Star No. 30 29
Apollo No. 32 27
Oriental No. 33 18
Barry No. 34 15
Charleston No. 35 17
Kavanaugh No. 36 10
Monmouth No. 37 15
Olive Branch No. 38 16
Herman No. 39 18
Occidental No. 40 25
Mount Joliet No. 41 18
Grand Total
Grand L.
dues.
$15 00
13 50
7 50
4 00
6 75
10 00
8 50
6 75
6 00
10 25
15 25
4 75
6 50
7 00
5 00
3 75
5 25
7 25
6 50
6 75
7 25
C 75
4 50
3 75
4 25
2 50
3 75
4 00
4 50
6 25
4 50
Grand
Charity
Fund.
$7 50
G 75
7 50
4 00
6 75
10 (10
8 50
6 75
6 00
10 25
15 25
4 75
6 50
7 00
5 00
3 75
5 25
7 25
6 50
6 75
7 25
6 75
4 50
3 75
4 25
2 50
3 75
4 00
4 50
6 25
4 50
Total.
*$23 00
20 25
15 00
8 00
13 50
20 00
17 00
13 50
12 00
20 50
30 50
9 50
13 00
14 00
10 00
7 50
10 50
14 50
13 00
13 50
14 50
13 50
9 00
7 50
*9 00
5 00
7 50
8 00
9 00
12 50
9 00
$403 25
' Warsaw No. 21, Warsaw, for charter and seal $ 5 00
Apollo No. 32, Chicago, for dispensation, charter and seal 19 00
Charleston No. 35, Charleston, for charter 5 00
Kavanaugh No. 36, Elizabeth, for charter and seal 7 Ot)
Monmouth No. 37, Monmouth, for charter and dues for 1844 and 1845 25 00
Olive Branch No. 38, Danville, for charter and seal 7 00
Herman No. 39, Quiney, for dispensation, charter and seal 22 00
Occidental No. 40, Ottawa, for seal 2 00
Mount Joliet No. 41, for seal 2 00
Far West No. 42, Galena, for seal 2 00
Temple U. D., Peoria, for dispensation 15 Oi)
$130 on
403 25
$533 25
*Nos. 7 and 35 overpaid 50 cents each.
330 HISTORY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS.
" CONIEA. CR.
" By cash paid for postage $ 3 46
By stationery for Grand Lodge 2 25
By fees for charters to seven Lodges 14 00
By Grand Treasurer's receipt March 14th, 1846 30 00
By Grand Treasurer's receipt April 10th, 1840 35 00
By Grand Treasurer's receipt October 7th, 1846 397 00
"Amount in my hands 51 44
$533 25
" LEVI LUSK, Grand Secretary."
The Grand Lodge then adjourned to 8 o'cloc k Thursday morning.
THURSDAY MORNING, Oct. 8, 1S4(>.
The Grand Lodge met pursuant to adjournment.
Present: as on " Wednesday evening."
Bro. Carding Jackson (18) presented proxy as the representative of
Mt. Joliet Lodge U. D., and Bro. Grand Secretary (9) presented proxies
as representative of Nos. 2 and 14.
The Committee on Chartered Lodges reported the returns of Nos. 2
and 14 correct.
The report of the committee on the resolutions of Bodley Lodge was
again taken up, and a motion to lay on the table (by whom made is not
stated) was again lost, whereupon the report was accepted, and the res-
olutions adopted, as follows :
"To the Most Worshipful the Grand Lodge of Illinois:
"The select committee to which have been referred certain resolutions from
Bodley Lodge No. 1, having had the same under consideration, respectfully beg
leave to report that the said resolutions embrace matters of the highest impor-
tance to the Masonic Fraternity, and in relation to which widely different
opinions are doubtless honestly entertained by worthy members of the Craft.
This is believed to be more particularly the case with the first resolution, inserted
on page 57, of the published proceedings of the last annual communication of this
Grand Lodge, the repeal of which is earnestly urged by Bodley Lodge No. 1.
With unaffected diffidence in their ability to arrive at a just and truly Masonic
conclusion upon the momentous questions submitted to them, and with due
deference to the high authority from which the resolution objected to emanates,
your committee humbly state that, in their judgment, the said resolution was
adopted hastily, and without sufficient caution, and the good of the Masonic
Institution requires that its operations should be suspended until an expression
of the opinion of the subordinate Lodges can be had thereon.
"We heartily believe the Bible to be the first Great Light of Masonry, and that
it is, and should be, the constant guide of the Christian Mason — yet, being aware
that at the period of the institution of the Order by King Solomon, only a small
portion of the Holy Scriptures was in existence, and that Masonry is designed
to be universal in the extension of its benefits, and to embrace within its ample
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 331
bosom all, whether Jews or Gentiles, Christians or Pagans, who avow ' a steadfast
belief in the existence of Deity,' we are unwilling to close the door against those-
whom our first and Most Illustrious Grand Master would have admitted, by impos-
ing a test which would exclude from the Lodge every person not a professor of
Christianity. According to our understanding of our ancient landmarks, the
imposition of such a test might be a dangerous innovation upon the well
established principles of Masonry — one that may sever the mystic tie which binds
together all the Craftsmen, wheresoever scattered over the surface of the Globe,
and confine to a comparatively small portion of the human family, benefits
obviously designated for the whole race. It is not unreasonable to suppose that
if 'a distinct avowal of a belief in the divine authenticity of the Holy Scrip-
tures,' including, of course, the New as well as the Old Testament, be deemed
indispensable to admission to the privileges of Masonry, and, as a necessary
consequence, operate to the exclusion of the descendants of the original found-
ers and patrons of the Order, it may hereafter be found practical to introduce
other tests, requiring 'a belief in one of the numerous creeds into which the
Christian world is now divided, and rejecting all others. Besides, if the door of
the Masonic Temple be resolutely closed against all such as do not avow the
required 'belief,' how are the persons thus deprived of the Great Light of the-
Bible, the study of which is solemnly and repeatedly enjoined within the portals
of the Lodge, to profit by the instructions of the Sacred Volume? Is it right to
refuse to those who do not believe 'in the divine authenticity of the Holy
Scriptures,' and consequently stand most in need of the precepts they inculcate
and the consolations they impart, the opportunity, perhaps the only one they
may ever be favored with, of making themselves acquainted with the contents
of the Blessed Book? Your committee believe that it is not ; _but unwilling to-
trespass further upon the patience of this Most Worshipful Grand Lodge by
presenting additional arguments in support of their opinions, they will proceed
to notice very briefly the other points embraced in the document referred to
them.
" With regard to the seventh resolution, also found on page 57 of the printed
proceedings of the last Grand Lodge, your committee ask leave to state that,
according to the best of their judgment, the good of the Masonic Fraternity
would best be promoted by its repeal. In our view, the question of the admission,
of every applicant may safely be left to the decision of the Lodge in which he
wishes to enter, and the members of which clearly possess the right of selecting,
their own associates. The danger which may be apprehended from the possible
admission of an improper person, who might be rejected were a visiting brother
allowed to vote, will be sufficiently guarded against by allowing, according to-
usage, such visitor to state his objections to the reception of the candidate in
open Lodge, before the ballot is taken; and which, if well founded, will as cer-
tainly exclude him as the appearance of a black ball in the ballot-box. It more-
over seems to your committee, that to allow a mere visiting brother, one, perhaps,,
who, although residing within the jurisdiction of a regular Lodge, refuses or
neglects to become a member, or it may be a total stranger to all the parties, the
privilege of deciding who shall or shall not be admitted into a Lodge, the door
of which the objector may never before have entered, and may never enter
again, is essentially wrong in principle, and should be discontinued in practice.
"Your committee likewise concur with Bodley Lodge in the opinion that the
eleventh resolution, which appears on page 58 of the published proceedings of
the last grand communication, should be rescinded. Although Encampments,.
332 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
Chapters, and Lodges are all parts of the great Masonic Institution, their organi-
zation and mode of working are nevertheless separate and distinct, and what
may justly be considered a legitimate cause for suspension in the one, is not
necessarily and unavoidably liable to the same grave punishment in the other.
Besides, as every Blue Lodge clearly and indisputably possesses the right of
punishing any offending member within her jurisdiction, there appears to be no
valid reason why she should give up this right to another tribunal, of whose
proceedings she is not bound to take notice, and with whose action in the case
she may be wholly unacquainted. The offender, moreover, especially if a
member of the Lodge, is surely entitled to the privilege of being tried by his
brethren, and to be heard by them in his own defense, and should not be deprived
of it for slight or trivial causes.
" In relation to the resolution inserted on pages 13 and 14 of the printed pro-
ceedings of the last Grand Lodge, your committee would also observe that they
are of the opinion that a general compliance therewith is calculated to be more
injurious than beneficial to the Fraternity. It appears to us that danger is far
more likely to arise from the inconsiderate admission of improper persons into
the Masonic family, than from the exclusion of such as may be truly worthy. It
seldom, if ever, happens that every member of a Lodge is present when a candi-
date is balloted for, and it is very possible that the only one in possession of
reasons sufficient for the rejection of the applicant, may be absent when his
petition is acted upon. It is, consequently, very proper, whenever such is the
case, that the brother who would have opposed his reception in the first instance,
had he been present, should be allowed another opportunity for the purpose, and
to have his objections removed, if not well founded, or the further advancement
of the candidate arrested, should it appear, upon mature deliberation, that he
is unworthy of the privilege he seeks to obtain. Besides, it may be received as a
sound maxim, that no one who has once been admitted within the portals of the
Lodge, and initiated as an Entered Apprentice, will, on slight grounds, be refused
further light; or, that one who has been admitted to the first and second degrees,
will be rejected on his application for the third, except from an imperative sense
of duty to the Masonic Institution. Your committee, therefore, can see no
necessity for the resolution in question, and respectfully recommend its repeal.
"With respect to the expediency of 'requiring all subordinate Lodges to
report to the Grand Lodge the names of all Master Masons residing within their
respective jurisdictions,' your committee would respectfully remark that, in
their judgment, a strict compliance with this requirement would be, for obvious
reasons, very difficult, if not impracticable. As all attainable information on this
subject is, however, desirable, it is believed that it should be recommended to
the subordinate Lodges to procure the same, so far as it may be within their
reach, and that nothing more should be required of them on this point.
" Impressed, however, with a deep sense of the great importance of the matters
submitted to them, and deprecating precipitate action thereon, your committee
would respectfully suggest that the operation of the several resolutions referred
to in the document from Bodley Lodge No. 1, be suspended until the next annual
communication of this Grand Lodge, and most respectfully recommend the
adoption of the following resolutions, viz.:
"Resolved, That the operation of resolutions Kos. 1, 7, and 11, on pages 57 and
58, and of the resolution on pages I'd and 14, of the published proceedings of the
Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois, held at Jacksonville, in the year 1845, be
and are hereby suspended until the opinion of the subordinate Lodges be
HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 333
obtained; and that said opinion be requested to be sent in at the next regular
communication of the Grand Lodge of Illinois.
'•Reso?t>eil, That it be recommended to the several subordinate Lodges under
the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, to procure, so far as it may be
practicable and convenient, the names of all Master Masons residing within their
respective jurisdictions, and report the same in their annual communications
for the information of this Grand Lodge.
"JOHN BAILHACHE,-)
A. C. DICKSON, V Committee."
CHAS. HOWARD. )
The Committee on Lodges U. D. reported the work and returns of Mt.
Joliet and Far West Lodges correct, and recommended the granting of
charters — to Mt. Joliet as No. 42, and to Far West as No. 41, which re-
commendations were concurred in, and Breth Carding Jackson admitted
as the representative of No. 42, and Josiah Riley of No. 41. The
granting of a charter to Far West as No. 41, vacated the number orig'-
nally intended for that Lodge, viz.: five, which has been vacant from
the organization of the Grand Lodge to this day.
Breth. Kippingburg, Bailhache, Souther, Howard, and Anderson were
granted leave of absence. Boats didn't run every day then, and as these
brethren lived on or near the river, it became necessary to take a boat
whenever it came along. Breth. James H. Matheny, William Lavelv,
and A. R. Robinson were appointed a committee to apply to the next
General Assembly for a charter for the Grand Lodge.
Ou motion of Bro. Matheny, the Grand Secretary was directed to pro-
cure a record book, and record therein all the proceedings of the Grand
Lodge, a perfect copy of which should be published.
On motion of Bro. Riley (36), it was
"Resolved, That the truly Masonic course of the Grand Lodge of Wisconsin, ia
relation to the disputed jurisdiction in the cases of Far West and Kavanagh
Lodges demands the expression of the most cordial approbation of this Grand
Lodge."
This resolution will be more fully understood after reading Grand Mas-
ter Walker's report to the Grand Lodge.
The Committee on Finance and Accounts reported as follows:
" The Committee on Finance and Accounts beg leave respectfully to report
that they find, on examination of the accounts of the Grand Treasurer and Grand
Secretary, in the hands of the Grand Treasurer, at the commencement of the
present session of the Grand Lodge, the sum of $418.58. Your committee find
that he has received during this session, from the Grand Secretary, the further
sum of $397. Your committee, on examination of the vouchers of the Grand
Treasurer, find, in addition to the $216.15, which was paid for printing the annual
report of the last year, the further sum of $100, for which no account has been
rendered from our late M. W. Grand Master Walker, who drew the money. Your
committee recommend that the Grand Lodge, through some proper channel,
call on Past Grand Master Walker for the account of the $100 which was so-
drawn by him.
"TIMOTHY SOUTHER,")
ADAM BREWER, \-Committee."
WM. E. RUSSELL. j
33 i HISTOEY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
Breth. Mitchell, Sweat, and Dills were appointed a committee to de-
termine what portions of the report of the Grand Master were proper to
be published.
The committee to whom was referred the resolution regarding mem-
bers of suspended Lodges, offered by Bro. Anderson, reported as follows :
" The committee to whom was referred a resolution asking the sense of this
•Grand Lodge as to the effect of the suspension of a subordinate Lodge by the
Grand Lodge on the Masonic standing of an individual member of such sus-
pended Lodge, would most respectfully report: That while it is, in the opinion
of your committee, imperative on all good Masons to regard all who participate
in a subordinate Lodge that has been suspended or declared clandestine by this
Grand Lodge as clandestine Masons, and therefore unworthy of our Masonic
associations: yet, if any member or members of any such suspended or clan-
destine Lodge shall, on the first information of the action of the Grand Lodge,
declaring such Lodge suspended or clandestine, immediately have withdrawn his
association or communication from them, they would, without doubt, be entitled
to all the rights and privileges of our Order; provided their actions as indi-
viduals, or immediately in conjunction with the Lodge, shall not have called for
*he action of this Grand Lodge declaring such Lodge suspended or clandestine.
"Your committee deem it unnecessary to prescribe any mode by which the
Fraternity may be satisfied that any one hailing from a suspended Lodge has
acted the part of a good and true Mason, in obedience to the edicts of this Grand
Lodge, as all are competent to judge for themselves in the premises.
"Your committee, therefore, would most respectfully recommend the adop-
tion of the following resolution, as a substitute for the one submitted to them :
"Resolved, That it is the sense of this Grand Lodge, that the suspension of a
subordinate Lodge by this Grand Lodge only affects the standing of its indi-
vidual members so far as they participate in disregarding the edicts of this
<irand Lodge after the first information thereof coming to their knowledge, and
providing such individuals, by their acts, shall not have been the cause of the
action of this Grand Lodge declaring such Lodge suspended or clandestine.
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
"WM. LAVELY, 1
N. IX MORSE, [committee"
J. R. CRANDALL, \ Committee.
C. JACKSON. J
The report was adopted.
The Grand Secretary presented a resolution from Warren Lodge in re-
lation to the same subjects treated of in the resolutions of Bodley Lodge,
and as the subject had been fully discussed and disposed of in the report
of the committee upon the resolutions of No. 1, the communication of
No. 14 was tabled.
The following communication from Xo. 14 was ordered published :
" IN WARREN LODGE No. 14, 1
August 8th, A. L. 5846. j
"On motion, Breth. E R. Roe, B. Parrish, E. Bogardus, and E. H. Gatewood
were appointed a committee to draft a preamble stating the facts and circum-
stances in relation to the conduct of John \V. Tunnel], formerly a member of
this Lodge, but now demitted, and resolutions expressive of the sense of this
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 335
Lodge; which preamble and resolutions shall be published to the grand and
subordinate Lodges throughout the Union. Whereupon, the following preamble
and resolutions were adopted, to-wit :
" WHEREAS, One John W. Tunnell, a practicing physician, about 30 or 35 years
of age, about 5 feet 8 inches high, spare made, dark complexion, long black hair
very straight and usually combed back, black eyes, and of quick, irascible tem-
perament; originally from Kentucky, lately from New Albany, Indiana, and
recently a resident of this place; was here regularly initiated, passed, and raised
to the sublime degree of Master Mason in this Lodge, in which he remained a
member in good standing until he received a demit in due form : And, where-
as, he has been guilty of a most heinous offense against the moral and civil laws
{he having at the same time an amiable wife and children, who are at New
Albany, Indiana), by abducting and taking away with him a young woman of this
neighborhood, with whom, as we are informed, he has had for some time, and
still has illicit intercourse — withdrawing his affections from their only proper
objects, his lawful wife and children: And, whereas, such conduct is alike ab-
horrent to all moral and social feeling— to the supreme laws of our land — and
more especially to the precepts and doctrines of the Masonic Institution, of
which we are proud to be accounted the advocate, and which he has so grossly
violated in this instance; therefore, be it
" Resolved, That we do, as a Lodge solemnly assembled in behalf of the injured
dignity of the Order, and of ourselves as Masons, hereby declare him, the said
John W. Tunnell, to be recreant to every principle of honor and duty, and we do
hereby utterly discard, disclaim, and disown him, and forever absolve ourselves,
•collectively and individually, from all Masonic connection or fellowship with
him, and request the Grand Lodge of Illinois, if in its power, to expell him, or
cause the same to be done : and we hereby resolve to publish him, in every le-
gal form that may be permitted, as an impostor upon the Masonic Order, if he
shall ever again seek communication with worthy brethren. And it is further
"Resolved, That we will cause the publication of this preamble and resolution
to the grand and subordinate Lodges of this State, and to every Grand Lodge in
the Union.
" E. R. ROE, W. M.
" Attest : E. H. GATEWOOD, Secretary pro tern.
"On motion,
" Resolved, That the action of Warren Lodge No. 14, in relation to John W.
Tunnell, be approved, and they be permitted to publish the same.
The Committee on Foreign Correspondence reported as follows :
'• The Committee on Foreign Correspondence beg leave to report that the
Grand Secretary, since the last Grand Annual Communication of this Grand
Lodge, has received the printed proceedings of the following Grand Lodges,
viz.: Missouri, Maryland for December and May, Alabama, Mississippi, Indiana,
Virginia, Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin, Maine, Florida, Texas, New Hampshire,
Connecticut, and Louisiana; all of which your committee have barely glanced
at in a very hurried and imperfect manner, not with that calm and deliberate
consideration due to the grand bodies from which they emanate, which is cer-
tainly absolutely necessary to enable them to select and embody such important
parts as might require an expression of opinion from this Grand Lodge.
"There are a great many things in the proceedings of the various Grand
Lodges of the utmost importance to the well-being of the Craft, which, if your
committee had had time sufficient, they would have taken great pleasure in
laying before this Grand Lodge, soliciting its action thereon. Your committee
report that, in their estimation, the day or two allotted to the Committee on
Foreign Correspondence, during the session of the Grand Lodge, is utterly in-
sufficient to enable them to bestow that judicious consideration upon the various
measures of interest affecting the prosperity of our Order, that their importance
most imperiously demands.
336 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS
" Our sister Grand Lodges expect of us a calm and considerate response to
their various suggestions; which your committee, owing to the shortness of
time allotted them, feel their utter incapacity to make.
"Your committee would recommend that the practice pursued by some of
the Grand Lodges, to-wit, that of having a Standing Committee on Foreign Cor-
respondence, whose duty it is to examine, during recess, such documents, with
a view of reporting at the next communication thereafter.be adopted by this
Grand Lodge, feeling assured that it will much facilitate the labors of the com-
mittee, and expedite the transaction of business.
" Your committee would conclnde their report in the words of the Most Wor-
shipful Grand Master of Tennessee : " We have great cause of gratulation and
rejoicing for the peace and prosperity of our Order. Old men are rubbing off
the rust of years, and returning with delight to the associations of their early
manhood; and young men seek pleasure in acquiring a knowledge of our
learning and mysteries. The gentle dew of charity is distilling upon our hill-
tops and along our valleys. Our time beaten walls seem to have settled on
their bases, and acquired new strength in the rolling tide of years. The wild
storm that beat against them has spent its fury, and the bright sun and cheer-
ful sky betoken coming days of quietude and felicity.'
"L. LUSK, 1
J. H. MATHEXY, }- Committee."
J. H. LUCE. j
The report was adopted, and Breth. Lusk (9), Anderson (9) and Davis
(15), were appointed a standing committee on correspondence.
The Grand Secretary was directed to have 350 copies of the proceed-
ings published, and five copies transmitted to each Lodge, one to each
Grand Lodge, and the remainder to be retained for the use of the Grand
Lodge at its next communication.
The Grand Secretary was allowed seventy-five dollars for his services.
On motion of Bro. Kelly (40),
"Resoleed, That in consideration of the censure already passed upon Warsaw
Lodge No. 21, this Grand Lodge hereby receives said Lodge to their affectionate
confidence."
The committee appointed to determine what portions of the Grand
Master's address were appropriate for publication, reported as follows:
CHICAGO, October 3, 1846.
" To Lcvi Lusk, Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Illinois :
"R. W. AND DR. BROTHER: — An ever merciful Providence has permitted the
period for another Annual Communication of our Grand Lodge to come round.
"An abstract of what I have done for the Grand Lodge is here furnished, at
least so far as the same is deemed of sufficient importance to engage the atten-
tion of the Grand Lodge. Minor acts and decisions, having respect to particular
Lodges or local interests, it is believed to be unnecessary here to detail.
"The lateness of this communication is owing to sickness of myself and
family having so thrown me out of the true reckoning as to have caused me,
till a late hour last evening, to have the impression that the Grand Lodge was
not to convene till one week from Monday next. I now hasten to furnish what
would otherwise have gone to you earlier.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 337
"My installation as Grand Master took place October 8th, 1815, in the Masonic
Hall at Jacksonville.
" October 10th, I granted a dispensation, pursuant to a resolution of the
Grand Lodge (see proceedings, page 16), to Charles Stienagel, and others, to
form and open a Lodge in Quincy, by the name of Herman Lodge, to work in
the German language. The fee for dispensation was to be paid to yourself, as
Grand Secretary.
"October llth, I appointed our Deputy Right Worshipful N. D. Morse my
proxy to consecrate Morning Star Lodge, No. 30, and install its officers. I have
received no returns as to whether the proxy was fulfilled or not.
"October 14th, pursuant to action of the Grand Lodge (see proceedings, page
59), I revoked and annulled the dispensation of Ottawa Lodge, held at Ottawa
LaSalle county, said Lodge having justly forfeited its being by non-use of its
powers and a non-fulfillment of its duties; and at the same time I granted a dis-
pensation to George H. Morris, Morris Murphy, Alson Woodruff, and the requi-
site additional brethren, to form and open a Lodge at Ottawa ,to be called Occi-
dental Lodge, designating and appointing George H. Norris as Master, Morris
Murphy as Senior Warden, and Alson Woodruff as Junior Warden. For the dis-
pensation thus granted no fees were required. Its charter, when issued, will be
paid for as usual. A pecnliar state of things, affecting the interests of the Lodge,
caused me subsequently to grant a dispensation for holding an election, by
which the first officers were changed.
October 15th, I revoked and annulled the charter of Juliet Lodge No. 10, in the
manner and for the causes following:
" ' To the Worshipful Master, Wardens and Brethren, of Juliet Lodge No. 10, held
at Juliet, Will county:
"' Whereas, legal information has been received by me of your having violated
the constitution, laws and edicts, of the Grand Lodge of the State from which
your Charter wa« obtained, as well as the constitutions of Masonry, and seriously
infringed upon the landmarks of the Order which you were bound to observe':
'"And whereas such information has been fully corroborated by an examina-
tion of your records this day submitted to me, and by the testimony of several
members of your Lodge, summoned before me to give evidence in the case:
"'And whereas such innovations and irregularities are without justification,
I have deemed that the interests of the Order can not longer be safely intrusted
to you:
"'Therefore be it known, That I, William F. Walker, Grand Master of the
M. W. Grand Lodge of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of the State of Illi-
nois, do, by virtue of the authority committed to me for the purpose, hereby
revoke and annul the the charter under which you have heretofore assembled
and worked, declaring it void and of no effect; and by virtue of these presents,
require and charge you to deliver the same, together with the books, records,
papers, funds, jewels, furniture, and Bother property of Juliet Lodge No. 10, to
.Myron K. Brownson, my proxy for this purpose, he to have and to hold the
wiine for our M. W. Grand Lodge, subject to my order on account thereof.
"•Given under my hand and seal, this 15th day of October, A. L. 5845, A. D.
1845.
[L. 8.] '"W. F. WALKER,
Grand Master of Grand Lodge of Illinots.'
"October 17th, I granted a dispensation, in lieu of the above revoked charter,
to William E. Little, Myron K. Browiison, Joel George, and the requisite addi-
tional brethren, constituting them into a Lodge, by the name of Mount Joliet
Lodge, and granting them, the Grand Lodge approving of the same, the number
of the extinct Lodge, to- wit, No. 10, said Lodge to te held at Joliet, in Will
—24
338 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
county, and designating and appointing William E. Little as Master, Myron K.
Brownson as Senior Warden, and Joel George as Junior Warden.
" I subsequently gave an order in the name of the Grand Lodge, to the Wor-
shipful Master of Mount Joliet Lodge, on Myron K. Brownson, for the books,
papers, jewels, funds, furniture, and other property of the late Juliet Lodge No.
10, held by him, the same to be placed in the care and for the use of Mount
Joliet Lodge. For the dispensation thus granted no fee was required, nor should
there be any for the charter for which that Lodge" may apply, save the Grand
Secretary's fee of two dollars.
"October 18th, I decided in the case of Herman Lodge, at Quincy, that instal-
lation of its officers was neither necessary nor proper, and therefore ordered it
to be dispensed with.
"November 8th, I granted a dispensation to Apollo Lodge No. 32, to pass and
raise Bro. John Wentworth at once, for peculiarities in his case which were
stated. The same day I consecrated Apollo and Oriental Lodges, Nos. 32 and
33, and installed their officers in ample form. The duty of installing their offi-
cers was performed by me again for the same Lodges, with those of Lafayette
Lodge, No. 18, in addition, immediately subsequent to their next following elec-
tion on the festival of St. John the Evangelist.
"Though greatly averse to allowing dispensations, from the strictness of the
laws, in all cases for which there is not an urgent reason, I have, under peculiar
circumstances, granted dispensations from our rules regarding work to difFer-
•ent Lodges on various occasions, and for the benefit of sundry individuals. I
regret that an application made through R. W. William B. Warren, on behalf of
a distinguished citizen, came to me so late, as, I fear, to have rendered the dis-
pensation of no avail.
"These things are mentioned here in the gross, to render unnecessary details
under their respective dates. They are not believed to be of importance suffi-
cient to demand a fuller mention of them.
" November 21st, I received from the Grand Treasurer and Grand Secretary,
a joint bond, in conformity with a resolution of the Grand Lodge in 1842; (see
proceedings, page 93, VI.) The same is transmitted by this day's mail to the R.
W. D. Grand Master.
"November 27th, I received from the Grand Treasurer $100, in answer to my
order of the 15th for the same. The drafts upon me on various accounts, con-
nected with the Grand Lodge, I found to be such as to require that some funds
be in my hands to meet them, as the Grand Treasurer was too remote to be
applied to as each was presented. It was for this cause that I made the above
draft. The account of the same and of myself, in connection with this Grand
Lodge, will be furnished in conclusion. I may here state, however, that a
balance of $11.74 of the money thus received, and of that paid for a dispensa-
tion to constitute a Lodge at Danville, is now in my hands, subject to the order of
the Grand Lodge.
" The manuscript of the proceedings of the Grand Lodge was received by me
November 14th. I had made arrangements for getting the matter through the
press with as little delay as possible after its receipt; but for some cause its
printing could not then be commenced, nor was it until the expiration of well
nigh two weeks; and then, by a failure of him who had undertaken it (T. A.
Stewart) to find materials with which to execute it properly, I was obliged to
withdraw it from him and take it to the firm who executed the work in the
manner in which it has gone forth.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 339
•"By this change was caused much additional delay, and a charge by which
I have been pursued on the part of Stewart, which I suppose I am bound to
answer.
"During three months the preparation and printing of the Grand Lodge pro-
ceedings engaged me. I found all sources of information confused, and the
accounts inexplicable. These things gave me great trouble, and occasioned a
consumption of time and expenditure of labor that can not readily be conceived.
Some errors were from the nature of the case committed, but so far as they
have been discovered they are believed to be unimportant. A beginning was
made, which, in other hands, may be carried to perfection in another year, and
our Grand Lodge affairs be exhibited with literal correctness. I may be per-
mitted to say that the whole imposed upon me an amount of labor and care
from which I should have shrunk had my responsibility been less weighty, or
my desire for the character and prosperity of our Grand Lodge in any degree
weakened. If what was done seems hardly commensurate with the expense, I
regret it. I could not in any other way make the publication exhibit the affairs
of our Grand Lodge in such a way as to be intelligible, and show what had
been done and what was required to be done in regard to them. On this account
I was forced to employ an amanuensis, and incur expenses that may not, per-
haps, at once be suggested.
" An account of the distribution of the Grand Lodge proceedings, made at the
instance of the Grand Secretary, will be furnished in conclusion. It may be
here stated, however, that about 250 copies were distributed, the remainder are
on hand, waiting the Grand Secretary's order.
"The Grand Lodge proceedings having been disposed of, I gave myself at
once, with some diligence, to the performance of the duty contemplated in a
preamble and resolution on page 16 of the proceedings. The work was com-
pleted some time since. * * *
" In March last I granted a dispensation to Breth. William E. Russell, John
Payne, John Thompson, and the requisite additional brethren, to form and open
•A Lodge at Danville, in this State, by the name of 'Olive Branch Lodge,' and
designating Bro. Wm. E. Russell as Master, Bro. John Payne as Senior Warden
and Bro. John Thompson as Junior Warden. Fifteen dollars were paid me for
the dispensation.
" On the 22d of the same month I called the attention of the committee on the
subject of Warsaw Lodge No. 21 (see proceedings, page 59) to their duties, and
.soon after received the statement and report which are hereto appended :
" ' Your committee beg leave to suggest to the M. W. Grand Master, that per-
haps it will not be necessary to inflict punishment to the extent of his authori-
ty ; that although the Lodge erred, and greatly erred, yet they conceive the
error was an error of the head and not of the heart; that all the harm has been
done in the case that can be done; the men have been since tried by the laws of
their country and a jury of their peers, and acquitted.'
" 'All of which we most respectfully submit.'
J?HLHOLTON, } Committee:*
*The letter of Bro. Montague, approved by Warsaw Lodge, and upon which
the committee based their report and suggestion to the M. W. Grand Master, ad-
mitted that the Lodge had received and acted upon the petitions of individuals
who were under indictment for crime, and that the Lodge was apprised of the
fact; that the propriety of their admission was made a question; and after ma-
ture deliberation and discussion, it was considered that the individuals did not
*tand as in ordinary cases of indictment. They were men of good standing in
340 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
" I adopted the recommendation of the committee with respect to the in-
fliction of punishment upon the Lodge, and deemed that, attention having been
called to the subject of caution and circumspection in all proceedings, and
especially in the introduction of members into the Masonic family, a great end
had been answered, and with this it would be well to let the Lodge off.
" At the same date I wrote to the Secretary of Hancock Lodge No. 20, enjoin-
ing said Lodge to make immediate payment of its dues to the Grand Secretary,
and to make its returns to me, but have not heard from them since.
" At the same date I addressed the Secretary of Warsaw Lodge No. 21 upon the
same subject, and similarly. The reply of Bro. John Montague is hereto at-
tached :
"' Your letter of the 22d inst. was duly received on the 29th, directing the at-
tention of Warsaw Lodge to the amount due the Grand Lodge. I inclosed the
amount to Bro. Grand Secretary on the 29th inst. We have Bro. Warren's
receipt for our dues for the year 1844. I forwarded the amount to him shortly
after my return from the Grand Lodge in 1844, but did not get a receipt until
the 2oth inst. Fraternally,
" ' To M. W. Grand Master— April 1st, 1846. " ' JOHN MONTAGUE.'
" I wrote at the same time, and similarly, to the Secretary of Equality Lodge
No. 2, and have received no reply.
"At the same time I wrote to P. G. M. Jonas, W. M. of Columbus Lodge No. 6,
and similarly, and was informed by him in reply that 'the few brethren who
live at Columbus intend to surrender their charter, as they number too few to
carry on a Lodge ; consequently, that he is not a member of Columbus Lodge.'
•' I at the same time wrote to L. Woodward, W. M. of St. John's Lodge No. 13,
on the subject of the apparent arrears of his Lodge for three years, and re-
ceived in reply a letter from the Secretary of his Lodge, herewith transmitted
marked C.*
"The matter of Bro. Merritt, referred to in the letter marked C., has been
satisfactorily adjusted. W. M. Woodward also replied to my letter satisfac-
torily.
" I addressed the Secretary of Friendship Lodge No. 7 at the same time, and
similarly, and received in reply a letter hereto annexed, marked D.f
" At the same time I addressed the Lodges at Monmouth, Greenville, and
Farmington, and hear in reply only concerning the Lodge at Monmouth, and
that by means of a courteous letter from its former W. Master, which is here-
with transmitted, marked E.J
society, and respected by their fellow-citizens, and against whom no objection
existed except the charge of the indictment, and that that had been obtained by
perjured witnesses, suborned for the purpose. The proceedings against the in-
dividuals were considered a persecution rather than a prosecution.— Grand
Secretary.
*The letter here spoken of, with the documents referred to therein, fully ex-
culpates St. John's Lodge No. 13 from the charge of dereliction of duty, and
shows that the returns have been punctually made and dues remitted to the
Grand Secretary in proper time. — Grand Lodge Committee.
f Brother Woods states that the failure of Friendship Lodge No. 7 was entirely
accidental, and that prior to the date of the Grand Master's letter, he had re-
mitted the balance due, and for which he had received the Grand Secretary's
receipt in full of Grand Lodge dues and Grand Charity fund. — Grand Lodge,
Committee.
Jit appears from Bro. Edmonson's letter that he had been compelled by ill-
health to withdraw from Monmouth Lodge and travel south. He was unable to
state the cause of the failure of the Lodge to pay the dues or make returns.
Returns, however, were made, and all arrearages and dues paid up. and a char-
ter received at the annual communication of 1840. — Grand Lodge, Committee.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 341
"These three Lodges have ceased to exist by the very terms of their con-
stitution, and may not, therefore, longer be reckoned among the Lodges of Illi-
nois.
" I was addressed early in March by St. Clair Lodge No. 24, on the subject of a
claim to jurisdiction over her, asserted to have been advanced by the Grand
Lodge of Missouri, by which her existence appeared to be threatened. I irr.-
mediately addressed our former R. W. G. Secretary on the subject, and the
present Grand Secretary of the M. W. Grand Lodge of Missouri. The latter, ur.-
der date of July 15th, replied to me fully on the subject of Lodge No. 24, and
also furnished information respecting other Lodges in this State, which have
been, and some that now are, under the jurisdiction of his Grand Lodge, which
is of such interest and value that I hereto annex his letter, marked F.*
" From this letter it appears that the brethren at Belleville have been under a
strange mistake. The Grand Lodge of Missouri neither claims jurisdiction
over them nor dues from them.
" With the W. M. of Milwaukee Lodge, I arranged satisfactorily the amount to
be paid by his Lodge to our Grand Lodge for dues in arrears, which I presume
has been transmitted to our Grand Secretary.
•' In June I had the happiness to terminate the then pending controversy be-
tween our Grand Lodge and that of Wisconsin, on the subject of an infringment
by that Grand Lodge of our jurisdiction at Galena and Elizabeth, by granting to
Far West Lodge a charter, and to Kavanaugh Lodge, at Elizabeth, a dispensa-
tion, in place of the authority under which each had before worked.
" At Galena a second Lodge had been constituted, by the Junior Grand Warden
of the Grand Lodge of Wisconsin; but this irregular organization was speedily
abandoned, and now all are united in Far West Lodge Lo. 5, working under the
Grand Lodge of Illinois.
"It is delightful to know that a difficulty of serious magnitude with which
we were threatened, was adjusted with the preservation of the most kind feel-
ing between all parties concerned. The Grand Lodge of Wisconsin, in a truly
magnanimous manner, withdrew her claims to jurisdiction in any part of our
Territory; and the brethren concerned, in a spirit to be found only among good
men and true, eagerly sought the correction of the irregularity into which they
had fallen, and came gladly to own our Grand Lodge as the mother of them all.
"To achieve the end thus attained, I visited Galena and Elizabeth, and when
I say that all things are now well there, I testify only to what I have seen. In
both places a visit from R. W. Bro. Barney is greatly desired. I hope he may
be continued Grand Lecturer. No one can be sent amongst the Fraternity
equally qualified and equally acceptable. His labors are everywhere attended
with such profit as is peculiar to instructions given by him. No Mason living can
make good his place. It is an unparalelled recommendation of him that he is
qualified to serve every department of the Institution.
" Kavanaugh Lodge, at Elizabeth, is to get from the Grand Lodge the amount
paid for her dispensation, and pay it, together with her dues, to our Grand
Lodge. When her charter issues it will be paid for as usual.
"Far West Lodge is to have a charter in full form, by the payment of the
Grand Secretary's fee only.
*The letter from the R. W. Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Missouri,
disclaims any demands upon Belleville Lodge, and states that she had regularly
withdrawn from their jurisdiction, and by permission of the Grand Lodge.—
Grand Lodge Committee.
342 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
. " I yesterday granted a dispensation to Breth. William D. Baird, Barnum I>.
Mallory and Albert N. Hayden, and the requisite additional brethren, to form
and open a Lodge at St. Charles, Kane county, in this State, by the name of
' Unity Lodge,' designating and appointing William D. Baird as Master, Bro.
Linden Lathrop as Senior Warden, and Bro. Albert N. Hayden as Junior War-
den— said dispensation to continue in force one year, and to be paid for by an
immediate remittance to the Grand Secretary.
"Thus, my brother, have I in great haste, and very imperfectly, furnished an
abstract of my actings in the office I have held in connection with the Grand
Lodge, for the year now closing. Would that I could report more and more
efficient labors. May what I have done prove acceptable to the right minded,
and be blessed by the Master above. I retire from my station satisfied of its
honors, and satisfied with its cares, its responsibilities, its trials and its duties.
I shall now seek the quiet corner, and there rest and muse on what others do,
and pray for the peace of Jerusalem. If there shall be in any quarter a reap-
ing of good fruit from seed that I may have sown, I shall be thankful. To
be remembered kindly by brethren who are wise hearted, is my wish. They
shall live in my memory : may I have a place in theirs and in their prayers.
You, R. W. Brother, will not fail to regard me kindly ; so will hope your affection-
ate Friend, Brother, and Companion,
"W. F. WALKER,
Q. M. Grand Lodge of Illinois."
On motion of Bro. Lavely, Breth. McMurtry (26), Mitchell (15), and
P. G. M. Walker (33), were appointed a committee to revise the constitu-
tion and by-laws.
The following was unanimously adopted :
" Resolved, That this Grand Lodge return their devout thanks to Almighty
God. for the fostering care which he has bestowed upon our Ancient Institution
during the past year, and for the peace which he has been pleased to grant us
jn our present convention."
After authorizing the Grand Master to appoint all committees that
were required, and had not been appointed " in the proceedings," the
Grand Lodge was closed.
BODLEY LODGE NO. 1.
Raisings reported in 1846 were as follows: John W. Dills, Aug. 24 ;
Thomas E. Durant, Sept. 19; J. N. Conyers, Dec. 23 ; E. J. Phillips and
Charles Allen, Dec. 26.
At the meeting of February 2, the resolutions of Harmony Lodge,
relating to the admission of negroes, were received and referred. They
will be given in another place. The Secretary reported the loss of the
charter, whereupon "the Lodge resolved itself into a committee to find
the same." Sept. 18, John Barney presided over the Lodge. Bro.
Durant was raised by him on the 19th Sept. Sept. 21, the Lodge passed
the resolutions, which appear in the proceedings of 1846, relating to
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 343
certain resolutions in force. Nov. 30, a brother was suspended until
certain charges preferred against him were cleared up, and the consid-
eration of the charges postponed until June 24, 1847.
Dec. 26, officers as follows were elected: J. II. Luce, W. M.; John
Crockett, S. W.; E. Conyers, J. W.; Q. S. Barton, Treas.; Louis Watson,
Sec.; H. Dills, S. D. Dec. 29, the officers were installed by John Barney.
EQUALITY LODGE NO. 2.
This Lodge held no meetings from August 2d, 1845, to Jan. 3, 1846.
No work was done during the year. June 24 (the last meeting held in
1846), the following officers were elected : A. W. Pool, W. M.; T. G. S.
Herod, S. W.; John M. Burnett, J. W.; William Siddall, Treas.; Jos. E.
Watkins, Sec.; James W. Hamilton and Joshua Bradley, Deacons; John
Howard, Tyler.
HARMONY LODGE NO. 3.
This Lodge conferred the Master's degree upon one brother during
1846, viz.: George A. Dunlap, Aug. 18, John Barney presiding.
Jan. 25, the following officers were elected : W. W. Happy, W. M.;
J. T. Sigler, S. W.; S. W. Lucas, J. W.; J. J. Cassell, Treas.; A, C. Dickson,
Sec.; T. J. Star, Chaplain ; James Hurst, Tyler. March 2, Past Grand
Master Dunlap moved that the charter of the Lodge be surrendered,
which was laid over to the next regular communication for considera-
tion. April 9, this motion was brought up and lost. At this meeting
the following action was had : " The Secretary presented a letter from
St. Louis Lodge No. 20, Mo., asking of this Lodge the privilege of con-
ferring the degrees of Masonry upon H. S. Fitch, of White Hall, Green
county, Illinois ; and, upon motion,
"Ordered, That the Secretary be instructed to inform St. Louis Lodge No. 20,
that this Lodge is of the opinion that she has no right to grant any such request,
believing, as she does, that it is unmasonic for any Lodge to confer the degrees
upon any person who is not a resident of the State where such application is
made."
June 19, Bro. Warren offered the following :
"Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Lodge, that in casn of emergency, she
has the right to act upon a petition before it has laid over the regular period of
one month."
Upon the passage of this resolution, the yeas and nays were demanded.
Those voting in the affirmative were S. W. Lucas (J. W.), John S. Rob-
erts, Jos. Heslep, W. Hamilton, E. J. Dunlap, P. Coffman, C. Ludlum
and A. C. Dickson; total, 8. In the negative, W. W. Happy (W. M.)
W. S. Hurst, W. B. Warren, W. C. Swett, Mat. Stacey, and James Hurst;
total, 7. At this meeting the petition of John J. Hardin for initiation
341 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
was received. July 6, the Lodge refused to go into an election for officers
for the ensuing six months. July 14, the Lodge adopted the following
resolution :
"Resolved, That as John J. Hardin some time since presented his petition to
this Lodge, with the fees accompanying the same, for the benefits of Masonry,
which petition was not handed in at the regular meeting of this Lodge, and owing
to the rules and regulations of our Ancient and Honorable Institution, no person
can receive the benefits of Masonry unless his petition has laid over one month,
without a dispensation from the M. W. Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of
Illinois, which dispensation has been received by this Lodge for the conferring
of the three degrees of Masonry upon John J. Hardin; and as it is out of the
power of the petitioner at this time to attend Harmony Lodge No. 3 to receive the
degrees of Masonry, this Lodge would most respectfully ask her sister Lodge,
Piasa, No. 27, to do her the favor of conferring the degrees of Masonry upon
John J. Hardin."
Col. Hardin was at the time on his way to Mexico, a portion of the
Illinois troops having rendezvoused at Alton, awaiting transportation.
Dec. 28, the following officers were elected: W. W. Happy, W. M.;
W. C. Swett, S. W.; W. X. Ross, J. W.; J. Heslep, Sec.; J. J. Cassell,
Treas.; James Hurst, Tyler.
SPRINGFIELD LODGE XO. 4.
This Lodge did no work in the Master's degreee during the year,
except as hereafter mentioned.
Jan. 2, John Barney was present and instructed the Lodge on the first
and third degrees. Jan. 3, " Bro. John Xichols, late of Lodge Xo. 63,
Xew Haven, Connecticut, sent in his Grand Lodge certificate and applied
for admission as a visitor, whereupon Bros. Barney, Cahanis, and
Francis were appointed a committee to examine the brother. They
having retired a sufficient length of time, returned and reported that
they were satisfied that he was a regular M. M., but very rusty, where-
upon the Lodge resolved to take him through the degree for the purpose
of exemplifying the work to the brethren, and also healing Bro. Xichols-
The Lodge of M. M. was then dispensed with, and a Lodge of E. A .
opened in lieu thereof. The work was then exemplified by taking Bro.
Xichols through the ceremonies of initiation." We suppose after that
the Lodge was satisfied that Bro. X. was a regularly made Mason. At
the same meeting he was passed, and on Jan. 5, raised. March 9, the
following was adopted :
"Resolved, That it be the duty of the W. M. to communicate with our M. W. G. M •
and inform him that his address, accompanying the proceedings of the last
grand communication, was read in open Lodge, and the advice and instruction
contained therein was heartily received, and will be properly appreciated ; and
that the Lodge warmly congratulate the G. M. for his communication, so well
calculated to give general satisfaction to every brother."
This was undoubtedly received by Grand Master "Walker with feelings
that can be well imagined but not described, coming, as it did, amid the
shower of denunciatory letters and resolutions he was at that time
receiving.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 345
March 16, the Lodge attended the funeral of William Lee D. Ewing,
whom, it will be remembered, was made in Vandalia Lodge No. 8, prior
to the formation of the Grand Lodge of 1822. A suitable address was
delivered to the brethren by Bro. Lavely, after which the customary
resolutions were adopted. April 6, Bro. Weber resigned as S. W., and
on May 11, Bro. John S. Vredenburg was elected to fill the vacancy,
and Bro. William A. Dickey was appointed Senior Deacon, that office
having been vacated by the election of Bro. Vredenburg. Aug. 2, the
Lodge buried, with the solemn rites of our ritual, the remains of Bro.
William Walters. Dec. 28, " it was moved and seconded that the fees of
the brethren who volunteered in June last to serve in the war now
pending between this country and Mexico, should be remitted to this
date. "
Officers as follows were elected at this meeting: William Lavely,
W. M.; J. S. Vredenburg, S. W.; John Uhler, J. W.; Maurice Doyle,
Treas.; Edmund Frazer, Sec.; Balsar Hiki, Tyler.
FRIENDSHIP LODGE NO. 7.
But one brother was raised by this Lodge during 1846, viz.: S. P.
Keys, July 13.
Jan. 22, the committee to whom was referred the resolutions of Har-
mony Lodge and the reply of the Chicago Lodges thereto, reported, which
will be found in another place.
June 4, the following officers were elected: Horace Preston, W. M.;
D. B. McKenny, S. W.; Seth Whitmore, J. W.; R. B. Loveland, Sec.;
L. Wood and F. H. Burroughs, Deacons; Chas. T. Chase and James
McKenny, Stewards; James Campbell, Chaplain; A. L. Bull, Tyler.
No Treasurer seems to have been elected. No meetings are recorded
between July 13, 1846, and Feb. 2, 1847.
M AGON LODGE NO. 8.
This Lodge raised the following named brethren during 1846: Isaac
C. Pugh, May 20 ; James M. Draper, June 25.
June 6, the W. M. was directed to apply to the M. W. G. M. for a dis-
pensation empowering the Lodge to receive and act upon the petitions
of certain citizens who had volunteered for the war with Mexico, with-
out regard to time.
Nov. 5, the Lodge buried the remains of Bro. George A. Patterson, the
first Master of the Lodge.
Nov. 28, the following officers were elected : Henry Prather, W. M.;
II. J. Armstrong, S. W.; II. Robinson, J. W.; Henry Hummell, Treas.;
W. T. Stamper, Sec.; C. Butler, S. D.; J. M. Draper, J. D.; J. Ashton,
Tyler.
346 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
Dec. 4, the Committee on Finance reported $25.19 in the treasury, due
to the Lodge, $179.87 ; due by the Lodge, $258.63.
Dec. 21, Bro. Ashton, who had been elected Tyler, refused to be in-
stalled, whereupon Bro. David Balls was elected and installed.
RUSHVILLE LODGE NO. 9.
The return of this Lodge for 1846, is as follows :
Officers.— John Todhunter, W. M.; John B. Seeley,S. W.; Louis Robert-
son, J. W.; James McCrosky, Treas.: James L. Anderson, Sec.; John
Blackford, S. D.; Samuel McCreery, J. D.; David Martin, Steward and
Tyler.
Past Masters. — Levi Lusk, Win. A. Richardson, Columbus E. Cook,
James L. Anderson, Hart Fellows.
Master Masons. — Josiah Parrott, Thomas J. Garrett, Alex. Brazleton,
Nathan Brooks, Andrew Lacroix, Louis Horton, Adams Dunlap, William
Edgar, Peter C. Vance, William Davis, Rensselaer Wells, George B.
Rogers, James B. Wright, Bartlett C. Gillam, Wm. Claughbaugh, John
C. Bagby, James H. Chick, Abraham Tolles, Martin Reed, Benjamin F.
Wyne, J. S. Bailey, Marshall Smith.
Fellow Crafts. — Joseph Montgomery, Isaac Geer, William H. Crawford,
Daniel S. Smith.
Entered Apprentices. — Tidener W. Lane, Richard Stevenson, Irwin
Lamaster, William Earley.
Initiated. — David Martin, Rev. William Cliff, James B. Wright, Wm.
Claughbaugh, J. S. Bailey, Martin Reed, John Thoroughman, William.
Earley, Richard Stevenson, Daniel S. Smith.
Passed. — David Martin, Rev. William Cliff, James B. Wright, Daniel
S. Smith, Wm. Claughbaugh, J. S. Bailey, Martin Reed.
liaised. — David Martin, Rev. Wm. Cliff, James B. Wright, George B.
Rogers, Wm. Claughbaugh, J. S. Bailey, Martin Reed, Abraham Tolles.
Admitted. — John C. Bagby.
Rejected.— Horace R. Witt.
Suspended. — Solomon C. Ward, E. A., for non-payment of dues; Isaac
Ewing, F. C., for unmasonic conduct; John Thoroughman, E. A., for
grossly unmasonic conduct.
JOLIET LODGE NO. 10.
Charter revoked by Grand Master Walker, and a dispensation grantee)
for a new Lodge, to be called " Mt. Joliet," which action was sustained
by the Grand Lodge ; since which time, the number 10 has been vacant
upon the registry of the Grand Lodge of Illinois.
ST. JOHN'S LODGE NO. 13.
This Lodge did no work in the Master's degree during 1846.
HISTOKY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS. 347
There is nothing in the proceedings of the Lodge beyond ordinary
Lodge business, excepting the action taken upon the circular of Harmony
Lodge, which is given in another place.
June 4, the following officers were elected : Thomas J. Wade, W. M.;
Jeremiah B. Lovett, S. "W.; Louis Oppenheim, J. W.; William Paul,
Treas.; Warren Brown, Sec.; Samuel Norton, S. D.; Samuel Oppenheim,
J. D.; William Cook and Dwight W. Baker, Stewards; Luther Wood-
ward, Tyler.
Bro. Brown was a literal Secretary — not only are the doings of the
Lodge recorded in extenso, but the receipt of every circular, book, and
paper, is noted down, as is every action performed by him as Secretary.
WARREN LODGE NO. 14.
The raisings reported by this Lodge during 1846, are as follows: A.
R. Stout, April 11; A. L. Hamilton, May 16; A. G. Caldwell, June 15.
Jan. 2,3, the Lodge buried the remains of Bro. James M. Jones.
June 13, the Lodge agreed to pay one-half the tuition fees of the chil-
dren of a deceased brother. At the meeting of August 8, the resolutions
in regard to an expelled brother, which were published by the Grand
Lodge, were adopted.
Sept. 5, resolutions similar to those of Bodley Lodge, regarding a dis-
tinct avowal of a belief in the divine authenticity of the Holy Scrip-
tures, were passed.
Dec. 28, the following officers were elected : Edgar Bogardus, W. M.;
E. R. Roe, S. W.; J. L. Campbell, J. W.; Robert H. Marron, Treas.; J.
E. Rearden, Sec.; A. G. Caldwell and J. B. Cockerell, Deacons ; Braxton
Parrish, Chaplain.
PEORIA LODGE NO. 15.
The following brethren were raised by this Lodge during 1846 :
Hoyt, May 9 ; Ezra G. Sanger, June 15; William Dunn, July 4; T. J.
Pickett, Nov. 28.
April 11, a petition for a new Lodge at Peoria was recommended.
May 9, Bro. Davis resigned as Master, leaving Bro. Garrett, S. W., to
govern the Lodge, and he, on the 22d of May, likewise resigned, where-
upon Bro. William Mitchell was elected W. M., and J. E. Carter, S. W.
June 15, the fees paid by Bro. Sanger, for the degrees, were refunded,
he having volunteered for the Mexican war. August 1, the recommen-
dation for a new Lodge in Peoria was withdrawn, and the petition or-
dered returned. Sept. 5, the petitioners for a new Lodge protested
against the action of the Lodge in withdrawing its consent to the forma-
tion of the same, and presented a new petition, which was rejected by a
vote of 7 to a. Bro. Sweat having resigned as J. W., Bro. William Darst
348 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
was elected in his stead. Sept. 26, the vote on the new petition for the
second Lodge in Peoria was reconsidered, and the desired recommenda-
tion was granted without a negative vote.
Dec. 26, the following officers were elected : William Mitchell, W. M.;
John E. Carter, S. W.; William Darst, J. W.; Win. E. Mason, Treas.;
Samuel H. Davis, Sec.; Francis A. McNeill, Chaplain; Moritz Brey,
Tyler. Appointed: Thomas J. Hurd, Senior, and Joseph Gill, Junior
Deacons.
TEMPERANCE LODGE NO. 16.
But one brother was raised by this Lodge during 1846, viz.: Frederick
Eemann, Feb. 9.
The Lodge held no meetings from Sept. 23, 1845, to Jan. 12, 1846, at
which time the election which should have been held in December,
1845, was had, resulting as follows : II. C. Remann, W. M.; Win. M.
Black, S. W.; David D. McKee, J. W.; J. T. B. Stapp, Treas.; D. B.
Hodge, Sec'y; Asahel Lee, S. D.; J. D. Gorin, J. D.; Abner Johnston,
Tyler.
May 5, the Lodge being advised of the death of Bro. John D. Gorin,
which occurred on the 3d May, proceeded to the house of the deceased
brother, when a sermon was delivered by Bro. G. J. Burnett, and thence
to the cemetery, where the body was buried with the honors of Masonry.
No meetings were held from the 5th of May until Sept. 14, when the
following apears on record :
" The W. M. informed the Lodge that for want of members and Masons
who would attend, there had been no communication of the Lodge for a
number of months past, and expressed himself averse to a longer con-
tinuation of this state of things, and thought it best to meet regular or
resign our charter, in which view the Lodge generally concurred.
" On motion, it was
"Resolved, That Breth. Asahel Lee and William M. Black be appointed a
committee to see and converse with the Master Masons residing in this county
who are not members of our Lodge, and urge them to join us and assist us in
this emergency, and also urge them to attend the regular communications of
the Lodge, and to report to the Lodge at the next meeting."
No meeting was held in October, and at the meeting of Nov. 9 Breth.
Remann, Black, and Lee were the only brethren present. The Lodge
was opened, and a petition for affiliation received and referred — two- of
the committee appointed not being present. Dec. 14, the Lodge held an
election of officers. On the first ballot for W. M., Bro. H. C. Remann
received two votes, J. W. F. Edmondson, a visiting brother, two votes,
Wm. M. Black one vote, and Asahel Lee, one vote. On the second
ballot Bro. Remann received one vote, and Bro. Black three, and was
declared elected. For Senior Warden, Bro. D. Jerrauld received one
HISTORY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS. 349
vote, Lie one vote, and Remann two votes, and the latter was declared
elected. D. Jerrauld was elected J. "W., he receiving two votes, Lee and
Stapp one each. The following officers were elected unanimously :
J. T. B. Stapp, Treas.; F. Remann, Sec.; Asahel Lee, S. D.; W. T. Hop-
kins, J. D.; and Moses Phillips, Tyler. Thus after a retirement of one
year from an office held nearly eight years, Bro. Phillips again appears
among the officers.
MACOMB LODGE NO. 17.
James L. Campbell, Aug. 1, was the only brother upon whom the
Master's degree was conferred during the year.
Oct. 3, the following was passed :
"Resolved, That we surrender the charter of Macomb Lodge No. 17, to take
effect from this date."
We do not know the cause or causes which led to the adoption of the
above resolution, but the Lodge was in a languishing state during this
year. No meetings were held in the months of February, July, Sep-
tember, November, and December, 1846, and in fact no meeting was held
between Oct. 3, 1846, and Nov. 20, 1847.
LAFAYETTE LODGE NO. 18.
This Lodge made the following return to the Grand Lodge for the
year 1846:
" Officers.— Richard J. Hamilton, W. M.; Matthias Taylor, S. W.; Hart
L. Stewart, J. W.; H. W. Bigelow, Treas.; C. G. Wicker, Sec.; J. L.
Thompson, S. D.; Thomas Brooks, J. D.; Abraham Kohn and J. Y.
Sanger, Stewards ; I. P. Hatfield, Steward.
" Past Masters. — Carding Jackson, Henry Brown.
" Master Masons. — William Harmon, James H. Sullivan, Jas. Averill,
G. B. Fearing., Samuel McKay, James McGuire, W. B. Snowhook, A.
Getzler, A. Garrett, Leonard Falch, F/ancis Edwards, J. L. Howe, L. C.
Kercheval, Levi Rosenfelt, John Ferns, J. A. W. Donahoo, F. A. Moore,
D. S. Cady, Joseph Filkins, Scott Benedick, Heman Hatch, N. F. Butler,
N. W. Watson, J. J. Huntly, S. J. Surdam, B. Neichman, J. J. Jackson,
V. H. Eachus, S. J. Lowe, Joseph Rosenburgh, William Lock, Abraham
Kohn, Frederick Weis, V. A. Boyce, I. N. Arnold, Martin Dodge, N.
Christy, John Pfund, I. C. Miller, J. D. Jennings, William Jackson,
John Davis, James Campbell, George Chacksfield, J. M. Lowe, E. Castle,
Joseph Rosenbaum, Philip Newburgh, W. H. Wells.
" Entered Apprentices. — Theodore Hubbard, W. J. Comfort.
" Initiated.— Philip Newburgh, W. H. Wells, W. J. Comfort, J. D.
Jennings, Theodore Hubbard.
"Paused. — Philip Newburgh, J. D. Jennings.
350 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. .
" Raised. — Philip Newburgh, J. D. Jennings.
"Admitted. — E. Castle, J. C. Miller, Joseph Kosenbaum.
" Demitted.— M. L. Knapp, Lot Whitcomb, W. B. Smith.
" Expelled.— Joshua Bell, William Shurr."
CLINTON LODGE NO. 19.
The return of this Lodge for 1846, which is the only information we
can present, reads as follows :
" Officers.— John Bennett, W. M.; Samuel Smith, S. W.; Charles B.
Waldo, J. W.; Jacob West, Treas.,- Nathan Dresser, Sec.; Lewis B.
Wynn, S. D.; Henry Shepherd, J. D.; Aaron B. White, Tyler.
" Past Masters. — David McMurphy, Thomas L. Harris.
"Master Masons. — John B. Broad well, Martin S. Morris, Charles G.
Brooks, Dudley Graham, John McNeal, James Short, A. A. Rankin,
A. D. Wright, William Farris.
"Entered Apprentices. — Robert T. Erwin, Thomas Peake.
"Initiated. — William Farris, Thomas Peake, Robert T. Erwin.
" Passed. — William Farris.
" liaised. — William Farris.
"Demitted. — William B. Kirk, Louis Salzenstein, John Allen, Julius
Oppenheimer.
" Rejected. — Murton Graham.
" Suspended. — Robert C. Scott."
HANCOCK LODGE NO. 20.
The following appears in the proceedings of 1846 relative to this
Lodge: "The Grand Lodge has been unofficially informed that this
Lodge has surrendered its charter. It has never been returned."
WARSAW LODGE NO. 21.
Brother T. L. Barns, March 17, was the only raising reported by this
Lodge during 1846.
It will be remembered that the Grand Lodge, at its session of 1845,
directed an investigation to be made into certain action of Warsaw
Lodge, in conferring the degrees of Masonry upon persons under indict-
ment for crime. Bro. Lusk, then Grand Secretary, addressed the Lodge
a communication in regard to the matter. The letter was referred to
Bro. John Montague for answer, who reported the following to the Lodge
on the 14th of March :
" WARSAW, March 9th, 1846.
"BROTHER LUSK:— Sir, your letter of the 5th inst., referring me to resolutions
passed by the Grand Lodge, at the last regular communication— also making
inquiry concerning the initiation of certain individuals into the Lodge, who
HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 351
were at the time under indictment, was duly received. At a regular meeting of
the Lodge on the 9th inst., I laid your letter before the Lodge for their consid-
eration. On motion of Bro. C. Hay, the Lodge requested me to answer that part
•of your letter making inquiry in relation to initiating, passing, and raising cer-
tain individuals under indictment. The facts were as follows :
" At a regular meeting of the Lodge on the 23d Sept. 1841, the petition of J. C.
Davis was received, read, filed, and ordered to lie over until the next regular
meeting of the Lodge. Bro. Stephens and Aldrich were appointed a committee
to inquire into the character and standing of the applicant. At a regular meet-
ing of the Lodge on the 21st of Oct., 1844, the committee reported favorable.
•On motion, the ballot was taken and found clear. On motion, Mr. Davis was
introduced and initiated. At a regular meeting of the Lodge on the 4th Nov.,
•18 14, at the request of Bro. Davis, to be passed to the second degree — on motion,
the ballot was taken and found clear. On motion, he was introduced and passed.
At a regular meeting of the Lodge on the 18th Nov. — on motion, the ballot was
taken to raise Bro. Davis, and found clear. On motion, he was introduced and
raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason.
"At a regular meeting of the Lodge on the 18th Nov., 1844. The petitions of T.
'C. Sharp and Levi Williams were received, read, filed, and ordered to lie over
•until the next regular meeting of the Lodge. Bros. Aldrich and Stephens were
appointed a committee to inquire into the character and standing of the appli-
cants. At a regular meeting of the Lodge on the 16th of Dec., 1844, the ballots
were taken separately for Messrs. Sharp and Williams, and found clear. On mo-
tion, Mr. Williams was introduced and initiated. At an adjourned meeting of
the Lodge, on the 28th Dec. 1844, on motion, Bro. Williams was introduced and
passed to the second degree. At an adjourned meeting of the Lodge Feb. 18th.,
1845, the ballot was taken to raise Bro. Williams to the degree of Master Mason,
and found clear. And at a regular meeting of the Lodge on the 17th of March,
1845, on motion, Bro. Williams was introduced and raised to the sublime de-
gree of Master Mason, agreeable to ancient form.
"At a regular meeting of the Lodge on the 16th Dec., 1844, the ballot was taken
to initiate Mr. Sharp, and found clear.. On motion, he was introduced and ini-
tiated. At an adjourned meeting of the Lodge on the 6th Jan., 1845, on motion,
<the ballot was taken to pass Bro. Sharp, and found clear. At an adjourned meet-
ing of the Lodge on the 9th Jan., 1845, on motion, Bro. Sharp was introduced and
gassed to the second degree.
"We believed at the time we balloted for candidates to be passed and raised,
at adjourned meetings, we were not violating any of the ancient landmarks of
the institution. We see the Grand Lodge recommend a different course. We
-are not disposed to violate any regulation of the Grand Lodge by which a sub-
ordinate Lodge shall be governed.
" At the time said petitions were presented, the fact of these individuals being
under indictment for the murder of Joseph and Hyram Smith, was referred to,
And the question of the propriety of their admission fully discussed. It was
admitted that those individuals were worthy members of society, and respected
!by their fellow citizens— no objection to their initiation therefore existed, ex-
cept the fact of the pending of the afore-mentioned indictment. In relation to
the matter, it was argued that the indictment was no evidence of crime; in this
instance, particularly, it was publicly known that the indictment against said
-applicants had been procured by the testimony of perjured witnesses who had
352 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
been suborned by the Hermans, for the purpose of procuring indictments
against certain prominent men of the county, who had become obnoxious to
them. The standing of those individuals in the community had not been at
all impaired by the indictment, but, on the contrary, they were regarded with
greater consideration than before, from the fact that they had been particularly
selected as the victims of Mormon vengeance. The community regarded the
proceedings against them as a persecution rather than a prosecution, and the
event of the final trial proved the correctness of the conclusion. Under these
circumstances, it could not be considered that those individuals should be re-
garded in the light that persons ordinarily are, who are arraigned for crime —
besides this, Bro. M. Aldrich, who has held an.honorable standing in the Frater-
nity for upwards of twenty years, was also under indictment for the same
offense. There would therefore seem to be equally as good grounds for his sus-
pension, as for rejecting the petitions of the individuals referred to. But to do this
when there was no evidence of his guilt, would be to reverse the fundamental
principles of the Order, and cast off a brother because he was in trouble. The
action of the Lodge in the case referred to, was not without due deliberation.
]f we have erred, we were not aware we were infringing any of the usages or
regulations of our ancient and honorable Order. Yet, if we have erred, we do
not feel disposed to shrink from any responsibility that may rest on our Lodge,
touching the subject under consideration. We hope the above will prove satis-
factory to yourself and the Most Worshipful Grand Master.
" Very respectfully,
"JOHN MONTAGUE."
"At an adjourned meeting of the Lodge on the 14th inst., the foregoing report
was submitted to the Lodge for their consideration. On motion of Bro. J. Berry ;
"Resolved, That the report of Bro. Montague be received and adopted, and he
be requested to forward a copy to Bro. Lusk.
" WARSAW, HANCOCK COUNTY, ILL.
"I, E. F. Chittenden, Secretary of Warsaw Lodge No. 21, do certify that the
foregoing report is a true copy, as appears from the record book of said Lodge,
and unanimously adopted at an adjourned meeting of the Lodge on the 14th of
March, 1846.
"E. F. CHITTENDEN, Secretary."
June 6, the following officers were elected : John Montague, "W. M.;
W. H. Eoosevelt, S. W.; R. Miller, J. W.; G. Rockwell, Treas.; E. F.
Chittenden, Sec.; S. Brown and C. C. Stephens, Deacons; German
Andrews, Tyler. Sept. 28, the delegate to the Grand Lodge was in-
structed to vote against all the proposed amendments to the constitution
and by-laws.
MILWAUKEE LODGE NO. 22.
Grand Master Walker reported to the Grand Lodge of 1846 that this
Lodge had passed under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Wis-
consin. Since that time No. 22 has been vacant on the register of the
Grand Lodge of Illinois. This Lodge is now Milwaukee Lodge No. 3,
uiuler the Grand Lodge of Wisconsin.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 35B
CASS LODGE NO. 23.
The records of this Lodge for 1846, in our possession, include only the
months of January and February. As we have no records beyond this,
we must present the returns of this Lodge for 1846, in lieu of other in-
formation :
" Officers.— H. F. Kippinburg, W. M.; Virginius A. Turpin, S. W.;
Thomas Eyres, J. W.; George B. Thompson, Treas.; John B. Taylor, Sec.;
Charles Sprague, S. D.; W. J. DeHaven, J. D.; James Hill, Steward and
Tyler.
" Past Masters. — P. Underwood, R. F. Kippinburg, Amos Bonny, Orin
Warner.
" Master Masons. — X. B. Thompson, George Moore, James Logan, Jas.
McClure, Samuel D. Newman, H. I. Bartlett, John Seaman, E. J. Dutch,
James Knowles, John McConnell, John McKown, L. -L. Maine, W.
Chapman, Samuel Johnson.
"Initiated. — Charles Sprague, James McClure, Samuel D. Newman,
John Seaman, James Hill, John McKown, W. Chapman, Samuel
Johnson.
"Passed. — Charles Sprague, James McClure, Samuel D. Newman, John
Seaman, James Hill, John McKown, W. Chapman, Samuel Johnson.
" Raised. — Charles Sprague, James McClure, Samuel D. Newman, John
Seaman, James Hill, John McKown, W. Chapman, Samuel Johnson.
" Admitted. — John McConnell, H. I. Bartlett, L. L. Maine.
" Demitted. — Samuel D. Newman, James McKeever.
" Rejected. — James Hope, John N. Deaver.
"Suspended. — C. S. Van Alstine, for profane swearing and intem-
perance."
ST. CLAIR LODGE NO. 24.
Breth. Phillip Werheim, May 19; L. D. Cabana, May 22; Jacob C.
Hinkley, June 15; A. Bradford, Sept. 29; David Miley, Nov. 12, were
raised by No. 24 during 1846.
Feb. 21, the Lodge "attended the funeral of Bro. John Smith,
physician." In the record of April 21, we find the following entry:
" Visiting, Bro. Henry Todd, Madison Lodge No. 3, Lower Alton."
Either this is a mistake of the Secretary, or the Lodge was imposed
upon, for no such Lodge ever to our knowledge had an existence. May
19, Bro. Werheim was raised without an examination, and without
regard to time, as he was about to depart for the " frontier of Mexico."
June 15, Bro. Reany resigned as W. M. Dec. 26, the following officers
were elected : C. G. Y. Taylor, W. M.; John C. Stewart, S. W.; L. D.
Cabana, J. W.: John Mace, Treas.; Wm. M. Parker, Sec.: Fieldon
—25
354 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
Powers, S. D.; N. Huly, J. D.; G. W. Hook, Tyler. At this meeting the
office of " Marshal " was dropped.
FRANKLIN LODGE NO. 25.
The return of this Lodge to the Grand Lodge for 1846 is as follows :
" Officers. — Charles Howard, W. M.; Harvey L. Summers, S. W.; Daniel
M. Kittenger, J. W.; George Lebold, Treas.; Eliakim Thorp, Sec.; Jacob
Rader, S. D.; , J. D.; Henry Stoeckel, Steward and Tyler.
" Past Masters. — John Higham, Charles Howard.
" Master Masons. — John Bostwick, Elihu Pembroke, Wm. Lowe, Jr.,
William H, Blanford, D. F. Wendell, Luther W. Lyon, Peter Merrill.
"Fellow Craft. — William Kiersey.
" Initiated.— Eliakim Thorp, William H. Blanford, Peter Merrill, Wm.
Kiersey.
"Passed.— Eliakim Thorp, William H. Blanford, Peter Merrill.
"Raised. — Efiakim Thorp, William H. Blanford, Peter Merrill."
HIRAM LODGE NO. 26.
The Master's degree was conferred by this Lodge during 1846 as
follows: Isaac Gullihur, Jan. 10; Jonas J. Hedstrom, May 9; Isaac A.
Davison, June 26; Geo. W. Lynes, Sept. 5; Thomas Champion, Nov. 28.
Jan. 10, the following officers were elected: Luman Field, W. M.:
William McMurtry, S. W.; Stephen Hitchcock, J. W.; N. D. Morse,
Treas.; Jas. Price, Sec.; E. H. King, Assistant Sec.; J. J. Jackson, Tyler.
PIASA LODGE NO. 27.
The third degree was conferred by this Lodge during 1846 upon the
following brethren : Thomas Brown, April 18; Joseph Brown, June 13;
J. W. Baker, June 23 ; Isaac E. Hardy, June 28 ; John J. Hardin, July
16 ; J. C. Winters, July 17 ; Charles Cohen and Jeduthan P. Hardy, July
19; William Vale, Aug. 6: E. C. March, Aug. 7; F. Mannel, Oct. 21;
G. H. Weigler, Nov. 28 ; W. F. D' Wolf, Dec. 1 ; R. S. Hollenback, Dec. 4 :
H. W. Henckle, Dec. 5; B. A. Carpenter, Dec. 11; James M. Taggart,
Dec. 29.
In the record of the 20th January we find resolutions expressive of
the deep regret of the Lodge upon learning the death of Bro. Samuel G.
Bailey. There is nothing upon the record to indicate that Bro. Bailey
was buried by the Lodge, and we are inclined to the opinion that, from
the tenor of the record, Brother Bailey died away from home. Feb. 10,
the following was passed, on motion of Bro. Ketchum :
"Resolved, That we, as a band of brother Freemasons, regard the dec-ease of a
worthy brother as a bereavement by the hand of Providence justly calculated to
implant in us emotions of lasting remembrance.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 355
"Resolved, That it is the sense of this Lodge, that though we he separated from
a deceased brother by such dispensation, we believe the sprig of evergreen
deposited in his grave to be truly an expression of our sincerity in the belief
that though his body dies, his spirit ever lives.
"Resolved, That we, as a Lodge, with the consent of the friends of a deceased
brother, will, as soon as convenient, plant at the head of his grave a tree of
evergreen, and protect and nurse the same as a memorial of perpetual remem-
brance."
May 17, the Lodge buried the remains of Bro. Wesley Noland. June
13, an invitation from the Lodges in St. Louis to join with them in the
celebration of St. John's Day, was received and accepted. July 14, the
petition of John J. Hardin was received, referred, acted on instanter,
and on the following day he was initiated and passed. Breth. Hardy
(J. P.), and Cohen were initiated, passed, and raised, at two meetings of
the Lodge on the same day (July 19, 9 o'clock A. M., and 2 o'clock P. M.),
their petitions being deemed cases of emergency, they having volun-
teered for the " war with Mexico."
Dec. 19, officers as follows were elected : J. W. Schweppe, W. M.; J. C.
Ketchum, S. W.; Nelson G. Edwards, J. W.; Edward Keating, Sec.;
S. R. Dolbee, Treas.; B. A. Carpenter, Tyler. The following appoint-
ments were made: Joseph Brown, S. D.; Thomas Brown, J. D. The
thanks of the Lodge were then tendered Brother Souther for the "digni-
fied and impartial manner with which he had presided over its delib-
erations." St. John's Day (Dec. 27), was duly celebrated by Franklin
and Piasa Lodges on the 28th Dec., the 27th falling on Sunday. Bro.
Nelson G. Edwards delivered an address upon the occasion.
MONROE LODGE NO. 28.
We are now able to present a synopsis of the transactions of this
Lodge from the time of its formation :
1844.
" Saturday, July 6, 1844, Monroe Lodge, U. D., met pursuant to
former notice at their Lodge-room in the village of Waterloo, under the
authority of a dispensation from the G. L. of Illinois, and held their
first meeting.
"PRESENT:
" Breth. W. H. GAYLE, W. M.
E. P. ROGERS, S. W.
J. A. FRANK, J. W.
MOSES HART, Sec.
JOHN COLEMAN, Treas.
"Visiting Bro. TOMA, S. D.
" JOHN MACE, J. D.
E. H. TALBOT, Tyler.
"VISITING BRETHREN:
"J. A. WAYNE, JOHN DePUYT, C. G. Y. TAYLOR, GEORGE KELLY, and
DANIEL CONVERSE."
356 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
The visiting brethren, with the exception of DePuyt and Converse,
were members of St. Clair Lodge, by which Lodge the petition of Monroe
Lodge was recommended. "Where Breth. DePuyt and Converse hailed
from, we are unable to state.
" The Lodge was opened in due and ancient form, after which the
W. M. lectured a short time on the first degree of Masonry. The
Entered Apprentice's degree was then dispensed with (Bros. Converse
and Wayne left the room by request), and opened in the Fellow Craft's
degree, which was also dispensed with and opened in the Master's
degree, after which a petition from Daniel Converse was received and
referred to the following committee, viz.: Bros. Coleman, Frank, and
Talbot. Also, one from J. A. Wayne, which was referred to Breth.
Rodgers, Coleman, and Talbot. Another petition from John DePuyt,
for membership, was received, and referred to Bros. Talbot, Coleman,
and Hart; also, a petition from William Simpson, referred to Breth.
Hart, Eodgers, and Talbot, after which the Lodge was called from labor
to refreshment, until 7 o'clock this evening."
The Lodge conferred the third degree during 1844 upon the following
brethren: J. A. Wayne and William Simpson, July 17; Daniel Con-
verse, August 24; Bradley Rust and James M. Johnson, Oct. 19.
Sept. 21, the fees and dues for one year of Breth. Bradley, Rust, and
James Johnson were remitted, they having "suffered heavily by the
late flood." There is no mention of the receipt of the charter, and no
indication that such an instrument had been received, beyond the
change in the heading of the record, from " Monroe Lodge U. D.," to
" Monroe Lodge No. 28."
In the record of Nov. 23, we find that Bro. Simpson was substituted
upon a committee in place of "our respected brother, J. C. James, de-
ceased," and that a committee was appointed to inquire into the con-
dition of the orphan children of the deceased brother. Dec. 21, the
following officers were elected: W. H. Gayle, W. M.; E. P. Rodgers,
S. W.; John A. Frank, J. W.; James M. Johnson, Treas.; Daniel Converse,
Sec.; John Coleman and Bradley Rust, Deacons ; E. H. Talbot, Tyler,
and Moses Hart, Marshal.
1845.
The third degree was conferred as follows : Jeremiah Coleman and
W. W. Miller, March 22; Charles H. Prusker, June 14; Luke Coon,
July 19; John A. Reed, Oct. 11; Valentine Routt, Nov. 8; John Morri-
son, Dec. 13.
1846.
The third degree was conferred as follows: John J. Green, Jan. 10 ;
Elam Rust, Feb. 22; Cortez Crocker, March 7; Charles Dickey, March
21; Robert H. Porter, May 9; John Cosgrove and X. F. Trail, June 0,
the latter being considered a case of emergency, as the brother had
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 357
"entered the service of his country," and was "expecting to march
immediately;" John Kidd and William Wackerly, Sept. 5.
June 6, an election was held, resulting in the choice of Breth. E. P.
Rogers, "W. M.; John Coleman, S. W.,- Elam Rust, J. W.; John A. Reed,
Treas.; Daniel Converse, Sec.; Luke Coon and Robert H. Porter, Dea-
cons ; Charles H. Prusker, Tyler. June 6, Bro. C. H. Kettler presented
the Lodge a "drum," in anticipation of the celebration of St. John's
Day, June 24, which day was duly celebrated, The Lodge met in the
" Methodist meeting-house," the officers were duly installed, and an
oration delivered by Bro. Elam Rust.
Dec. 28, the Lodge celebrated St. John's Day, an oration being deliv-
ered by Bro. C. G. Y. Taylor.
PEKIN LODGE NO. 29.
The first meeting of this Lodge was held July 11, 1843. There were
present Leonard Knott, W. M.; Daniel Tanney, S. W.; Samuel P. Bailey,
J. W.; Wm. B. Dolittle, Treas.; J. B. Doolittle, Sec.; E. S. Mark, S. D.;
Fitch, J. D.; and Francis Johnson, Tyler ; also, the following visi-
tors from Peoria Lodge No. 15 : Samuel H. Davis, Augustus 0. Garrett,
J. B. Carter, John D. Finch, Wm. S. Mason, James Mossman, and J. J.
Tappan. The Lodge having been opened on the first degree, the officers
were duly installed by Bro. Davis. The Lodge was then opened on the
third degree, and, for the purpose " of practicing," the third degree was
conferred upon Bro. J. J. Tappan, "he to pay the fee to that Lodge"
[No. 15.]. William Moore, A. R. Skidmore, Dec. 2, received the Mas-
ter's degree during 1843.
1844.
Raisings as follows : Middleton Tackaberry, Jan. 3 ; John R. Cran-
dall, Feb. 13; Warren Oliver and J. G. Lenhart, Feb. 20; Peter A.
Brower and Henry Tew, Feb. 24 ; John Myers, March 16 ; William H.
Homes, March 30 ; Walden Porter, Richard H. Snell, and David Bailey,
June 13.
Jan. 3, the Lodge buried the remains of Bro. William Moore, the first
one upon whom the Lodge had conferred the third degree. Bro. Samuel
H. Davis, who presided at his raising, was present at his funeral, and
acted as Master during the last sad rites.
Feb. 10, "the compliments of J. Sickler were read to the Lodge, and
accompanying his letter was his set of Masonic jewels, which he pro-
posed loaning the Lodge until he might want them ; consisting of one
square, plumb, keys, pens, a hammer, and two Deacons' jewels or tri-
angles.
"Resolved, That the thanks of this Lodge be tendered Bro. Sickler, and an
invitation to visit the Lodge."
358 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
March 16, the Master " gave a short lecture on the impropriety of the
brethren talking out of the Lodge of who is and who wishes to be Ma-
sons."
June 24, election as follows : Leonard Knott, W. M.; Daniel Tanney,
S. W.; Middleton Tackaberry, J. W.; Irwin B. Doolittle, Treas.; William
Wilkey, Sec.; Warren Oliver, Chaplain ; John R. Crandall, Tyler.
1845.
Eaisings as follows : Septer Wintermute and Peleg Hibbert, Jan. 31 ;
S. S. Porter, David Corwin, W. C. Quigley, and Samuel Mayer, April 18 ;
Joseph S. Maus, May 17 ; William Shannon, Oct 21.
March 15, the remains of Bro. Francis Johnson were buried by the
Lodge.
June 14, officers, as follows, elected : John R. Crandall, W. M.; Dan'l
Tanney, S. W.; M. Tackaberry, J. W.; W. H. Homes, Treas.; J. G. Len-
hart, Sec.; A. Woolston, Chaplain ; Peleg Hibbert, Tyler. The charter
granted this Lodge, at the session of the Grand Lodge in 1844, was not
received until June 14, 1845, and on August 18 the Lodge was duly con-
stituted by Samuel H. Davis.
1846.
We have no records of 1846 (excepting the month of January) in our
possession. We therefore present the return for that year:
" Officers.— William H. Holmes, W. M.; Middleton Tackaberry, S. W.;
Joseph S. Maus, J. W.; Rev. Abraham Woolston, Chaplain; David Bai-
ley, Treas.; Theodore A. Walker, Sec.; Benjamin S. Prettyman, S. D.;
David Corwin, J. D.; William Shannon, Tyler.
" Past Master.— John R. Crandall.
''Master Masons. — Samuel P. Bailey, Samuel P. Hebbard, Webb C.
Quigley, Peter A. Brower, Peleg Hebbard, Turner A. King, Henry Tew,
Daniel Tanney, Waldron Porter, Samuel Mayers, John L. Lenhart, Wm.
B. Doolittle, Lorenzo D. Hamilton, Matthias App, William Wilkey, Irwin
Doolittle, Richard H. Snell.
" Entered Apprentices. — Solomon Kahn, Rev. R. West, Austin E. Burns,
John Filliken.
" Initiated. — Theodore A. Walker, Rev. Eli N. Powell, Austin E. Burns,
Benjamin S. Prettyman, Solomon Kahn, Rev. R. West.
" Passed. — Theodore A. Walker, Rev. Eli N. Powell, Benjamin S.
Prettyman, Lorenzo D. Hamilton.
" Raised. — Theodore A. Walker, William Shannon, Rev. Eli N. Pow-
ell, Benjamin S. Prettyman, Joseph Mitchell, Lorenzo D. Hamilton.
" Demitted. — Leonard A. Knott, Alden Wilkey, Samuel P. Hebbard,
Rev. Eli IT. Powell, Benjamin Kellogg, Jr., Joseph Mitchell, Elijah S.
Mark.
" Suspended. — Septer Wintermute, Clark Cutler, Andrew R. Skidmore,
John Mayers, for non-payment of dues.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 359
MOUNT VERNON NO. 31.
This Lodge, the dispensation for which was granted as Jefferson, held
its first meeting on the 29th of April, 1844. The meeting was presided
over by " R. W. J. T. Bradley, D. D. G. M. of the Grand Lodge of Mis-
souri, under special deputation, to install the officers, <tc." The min-
utes of this meeting are in the peculiar hand-writing of Bro. Bradley.
The brethren present were : Alexander H. Barnes, W. M.; Wm. W.
Bennett, S. W.; Noah Johnston, J. W.; H. P. Boyakin, Treas.,^. i., act-
ing for Joseph Pace ; Thomas Philp, Sec.; Wm. H. Short, S. D.; Wm. A.
Thomas, J. D.; Amaziah Pilcher, Tyler, p. t., acting for Stephen G. Hicks.
The petition for the dispensation of this Lodge was recommended by
Marion Lodge No. 69, under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Mis-
souri. Of the brethren present at this meeting, Bro. Bradley was W. M.
of Clinton Lodge, at Carlyle. Barnes and Johnston were formerly mem-
bers of Marion Lodge No. 69, of which Lodge Boyakin was at the time
W. M., and Pilcher a member.
The following brethren of Marion Lodge were also present : John A.
Goudy and W. H. H. Barnes.
The officers were then installed and the Lodge set to work. No work
beyond two initiations was done in 1844. No meetings were held from
October 7th, 1844, until April 19th, 1845.
1845.
Raisings: Thomas S. Roe and Edward II. Ridgway, June 3; T. B.
Cantril, July 21; Daniel Kinney and Robert F. Wingate, Aug. 18 ; Joel
F. Watson, Aug. 19 ; George Mills and Downing Baugh, Oct. 13 ; James
M. Hoage, .
June 24, the following election took place: William W. Bennett, \V.
M.: William A. Thomas, S. W.; William H. Short, J. W.; Edward H.
Ridgway, Treas.; Noah Johnston, Sec.; David Dow, Tyler. The Lodge
then proceeded to the " Methodist E. C. House," where the officers were
duly installed by E. H. Gatewood, of Warren Lodge No. 14. Sept. 8, the
delegate to the Grand Lodge was directed to vote for the removal of the
Grand Lodge from Jacksonville to Springfield, and also to have the
name of the Lodge changed from Jefferson to Mt. Vernon. Oct. 13, the
charter of the Lodge was received, and the Lodge duly constituted as
Mount Vernon Lodge No. 31.
1846.
Raisings as follows: James B. Hinde, May 2; Richard S. Nelson,
March 17; George W. Akin, April 6; Francis H. Edwards, May 26;
Samuel K. Casey, June 9 ; William Thomas Williams, Sept. 14 ; Wm. S.
Crawford, Nov. 28; James W. Hare, Dec. 3.
360 HISTOKY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS.
March 6, the Lodge buried Bro. David Dow, who departed this life
" Wednesday, March 4th, A. D. 1846, at about 5 o'clock P. M." A ser-
mon was preached on this occasion by Rev. John Van Cleve, at the re-
quest of the Lodge.
March 7, "The Secretary presented to the Chair the implenents of the
Tyler's office, and announced the death of Bro. David Dow, Tyler." Bro.
Daniel Kinney was then appointed.
June 24, election as follows : William W. Bennett, W. M.; Downing
Baugh, S. W.; George Mills, J. W.; Daniel Kinney, Treas.; Joel F. Wat-
son, Sec.; Noah Johnston, Tyler. Breth. Robert F. Wingate and Wm.
II. Short, were appointed Deacons. Francis H. Edwards and Thomas
Philp, Stewards.
July 6, " Bro. J. B. Hinde offered the following resolution, which was
adopted, to-wit.:
"Resolved, That there be a committee of one appointed monthly, to ascertain,
report upon, and attend to the wants of sick or indigent Masons, their widows
or orphans, within the jurisdiction of this Lodge."
Bro. Hinde was appointed for the month of July. There appears upon
the records of this Lodge evidences of appropriations for indigent Ma-
sons and the widows of Masons at almost every regular meeting.
Sometimes one case is reported, but oftener two, and occasionally three.
The record of Mt Vernon Lodge, in this respect, is emphatically good.
APOLLO LODGE NO. 32.
Return for 1846 :
" Officers. — John R. Case, W. M.; Cornelius Lansing, S. W.; Charles R.
Starkweather, J. W.; Charles Follansbee, Treas.; William H. Adams,
Sec.; J. Herman Bird, S. D.; Carlton Holland, J. D.; James A. Marshall,
Joseph Keen, Stewards ; J. L. Thompson,* Tyler.
"Past Masters. — William Stuart, John Barney.
"Master Masons. — John Brinkerhoff, Charles H. Larabee, Joseph C.
Brautigam, Adam Gibbs, John A. Ruckhart, J. Milo Strail, M. Leopold,
Lyman Mower, E. W. Herrick. Charles R. Vander Cook, Alonzo G. Hun-
tington, Sylvester N. Rice, William M. Jackson, James Long, John
Wentworth, L. W. Clark, Edward R. Harmon, Cyprian C. Norton.
" Fellow Crafts.— J. B. F. Russell, M. M. Hayden.
"Entered Apprentice. — Justin Butterfield, Jr.
" Admitted. — M. Leopold, Lyman Mower, Edward R. Harmon, Cyprian
C. Norton.
" D emitted. — William Stuart.
"Died. — Stephen S. Cornell, Guy Wadhams.
" Expelled. — Pliny Miles."
*Not a member of thh Lodge.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 861
ORIENTAL LODGE NO. 33.
The first entry upon the records of this Lodge reads as follows : " La-
fayette No. 18, the oldest Lodge in the city of Chicago, having so pros-
pered from its commencement to the year 1842, as to have become in the
course of last season, mother to Apollo Lodge No. 32, and by the month
of July, in the present year, notwithstanding, as to have acquired mem-
bers beyond the limit recommended by the Masonic constitutions and
by the Grand Lodge of the State, a number of its members resolved
upon the formation of yet another Lodge, believing that the interests of
the Order would be thereby most effectually promoted.
" With this view, a meeting was held, and, after consultation, the fol-
lowing form of a petition was drawn up, signed, and authorized to be
presented to the Most Worshipful D. G. M. of the State, viz.: "
Here follows the petition in the usual form, signed by W. B. Herrick,
J. V. Z. Blaney, George Davis, W. II. Davis, William Henry, Hamilton
Hough, C. L. Schlatter, W. S. Brown, 8. W. Sherman, Samuel Hoard,
W. F. Walker, Eeuben Taylor. Then follows a transcript of the recom-
mendation of Lafayette Lodge, followed by a copy of the dispensation
granted by Grand Master Lusk, and which also bears the name of" Card-
ing Jacksonville." If the " ville " had been left off, the copy of the
signature would have been correct. The dispensation bears date August
S, 1845, and on the 9th of August, 1845, the first meeting was held. This
is evidence almost conclusive that the dispensation was granted by
Carding Jackson, then Deputy Grand Master, because it was impossible
that the dispensation could have gone from Kushville to Chicago in one
•day — and even now, in the days of almost unlimited speed in travel, it
is a matter of doubt that a communication could reach Chicago from
Rushville in one day.
The brethren present at the first meeting were : William F. Walker,
W. M.; W. B. Herrick, S. W.; C. L. Schlatter, J. W.; J. V. Z. Blaney, S.
W. Sherman, W. H. Davis, Hamilton Hough; visiting brethren: W. II.
Adams, Charles R. Starkweather, and J. R. Case, of No. 32. The dispen-
sation was read, by-laws adopted, and the Lodge set to work.
Dec. 20, the Lodge resolved itself into " a committee of the whole,
Bro. John R. Case in the Chair, for the purpose of electing officers for
the ensuing twelve months," which resulted in the election of the follow-
ing: J. V. Z. Blaney, W. M.; W. B. Herrick, S. W.; C. L. Schlatter, J.
W.; Samuel Hoard, Treas.; George Davis, Sec.; Hamilton Hough, S.
D.; T. A. Stewart, J. D.; W. H. Davis and S. W. Sherman, Stewards ; W.
F. Walker, Chaplain; I. P. Hatfield, Tyler. In this list of officers were
two future Grand Masters, viz.: Walker and Herrick.
1846.
Raisings as follows : Samuel Barry, March 31 ; George Ryer, April 18.
362 HISTOKY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS.
Dec. 19, the following officers were elected: James V. Z. Blaney, W.
M.; George Davis, S. W.; C. L. Schlatter, J. W.; Samuel Hoard, Treas.>
L. P. Hilliard, Sec.; George Ryer, S. D.; N. C. Geer, J. D.; Thomp-
son, Tyler; Mitchell, Chaplain ; Thompson, W. H. Davis, and
S. W. Sherman, Stewards.
BARRY LODGE NO. 34.
The return of this Lodge for 1846, is here presented :
"Officers. — Michael Gard, W. M.; Joseph Jackson, S. W.; George Wiker
J. W.; W. J. Allkire, Treas.; E. Hurt, Sec.; Eli Longnecker, S. D.; David
Wike, J. D.; Josiah Lippencott, Steward and Tyler.
" Past .Masters.— Michael Gard, W. J. Allkire, David Wike, Eli Long-
necker, George Wike.
" Master Masons.— R. W. Scanland, John P. Grubb, I. N. Love, I. T.
Hide, William Fugate, John Watson, J. B. Donalson.
"Fellow Craft.— A. S. Pettit.
" Entered Apprentices. — William Lippincott, Andrew Longnecker, A.
F. Bell.
" Initiated.— R. W. Scanland, I. N. Love, I. T. Hide, William Lippin-
cott, Andrew Longnecker, John Watson, J. B. Donalson, A. S. Pettit, A.
F. Bell.
" Passed. — R. W. Scanland, John Watson, J. B. Donalson, A. S. Pettit,
John P. Grubb, I. N. Love, I. T. Hide.
" Rained.— David Wike, John P. Grubb, I. N. Love, I. T. Hide, R. W.
Scanland, John Watson, J. B. Donalson.
"Suspended. — W. William Cotteral.
CHARLESTON LODGE NO. 35.
The first meeting of this Lodge was held Aug. 27, 1845, at which the
following brethren were present: W. D. Gage, W. M.; E. Roach, S. W.;
Adam Mitchell, J. W.; James Watson, Sec. No work in the third de-
gree, during 1845, was done by this Lodge.
1846.
Raisings as follows: James L. Corethers and John A. Mitchell, Jan,
28; John Mills, Feb. 3: A. P. Dunbar, May 5 ; George McDaniel, June-
2; William Patton, July 7; A. G. Mitchell, July 18; E.G. Earnheart,
July 20; William Haden, Sept. 1 ; Edward Evey, Sept. 2; William Horr,
Nov. 24; N. W. Chapman, Nov. 27; A. H. Chapman, Dec. 3.
June 24, the following election was had : Edmund Roach, W. M.;
Alexander P. Dunbar, S. W.; John Mills, Jr., J. W.; Adam Mitchell,
Treas.; John A. Mitchell, Sec.; Green L. Guthrie, S. D.; Wm. B. Mills,
J. D.; Jacob Linder, Tyler. August 10, Bro. Roach resigned as W. M.,
and was demitted.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 363
OCCIDENTAL LODGE NO. 40.
Raised during 1846: L. Leland, Jan. 2; T. Lyle Dickey and J. 0.
Glover, Jan. 17; Burton C. Cook, Feb. 24; William Osman, June 13;
Selby Dolittle, ; Eeddick, Nov. 30. Feb. 6, Breth. C. V. Kelly,
Jno. D Caton, T. Lyle Dickey, M. H. Swift, and L. Leland were appointed
a committee on the resolutions of Harmony Lodge. Feb. 24, Bro. John
Barney presided, at which time B. C. Cook was raised. June 13, William
Osman was raised, the record stating that the reason for the apparent
haste (he having been passed June 12), was the fact that " Bro. Osman
intended leaving the country for Mexico."
June 23, the following officers were elected : John D. Caton, W. M.;
G. L. Thompson, S. W.; Joseph Avery, J. W.; L. Leland, Treas ; J. 0.
Glover, Sec.; B. C. Cook and Marshal Miller, Deacons. Aug. 21, James
Lafferty was appointed Tyler. Oct. 10, the Lodge was duly constituted
as No. 40, Bro. Caton being installed as Master.
It will be remembered that in 1843 Grand Master Jonas granted a dis-
pensation for a Lodge at Kaskaskia, to be called Western Star Lodge.
This Lodge did some work and made one return, but, not being pros-
perous, its dispensation was surrendered. The Lodge organized at
Farmington, Fulton county, was removed to Canton, and is now No. 30.
A dispensation was also granted for a Lodge at Greenville, Bond county,
at an early period in the organization of the present Grand Lodge, but
the Lodge was never organized.
CHAPTER XX.
THE ORIGIN OF SECTIONS 81 AND 82, GHAND
LODGE BY-LAWS.
At a meeting of Harmony Lodge No. 3, held at their hall in Jackson-
ville, on the first day of December, 1845, Bro. John S. Roberts " read a
preamble and resolutions in relation to the admission of negroes into
the Masonic Fraternity, and, on motion of Bro. A. Dunlap, and seconded
by Bro. George Henry, the preamble and resolutions were referred to a
committee of three; whereupon, Breth. A. Dunlap, Eoberts, and J.
Heslep were appointed said committee, and, on motion, the Lodge was
called from labor to refreshment until to-morrow evening, at 6 o'clock
P. M." The brethren present at this meeting were, W. W. Happy,
W. M.; S. W. Lucas, S. W., p. t.; A. Dunlap, J. W., p. t.; John S.
Roberts, Treas., p. t.; J. Heslep, Sec.; William Hamilton, S. D.; George
Henry, J. D.; James Hurst, Tyler ; and Bro. Samuel Dunlap.
Dec. 2, the Lodge met pursuant to its action of the evening before.
The same brethren were present as on the evening of December 1, with
the additions of Breth. E. J. Dunlap and Philip Coffman, and George
Hackett, a visiting brother.
Our reason for thus stating the names of the brethren present is, that
it has been said of late, that the events and occurrences which finally
culminated in the adoption of sections 81 and 82, were in a great measure
due to the efforts of Past Grand Master Warren. It will be seen by
the record of those present, that Bro. Warren was not present at either
of the meetings in question.
The Lodge having called on, and some financial business having been
transacted, the committee to whom was referred the preamble and reso-
lutions of Bro. Roberts, reported. We extract from the record verbatim :
" Bro. J. S. Roberts, in behalf of the committee appointed at last
stated meeting of this Lodge, and to whom was referred a preamble and
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 365
resolutions, made report by presenting the following preamble and reso-
lutions, to-wit :
" WHEREAS, It has been represented to us by a worthy brother, in whom all
confidence can be placed, that a negro is admitted to all the privileges of our
Fraternity in the Lodges at Chicago; and
" WHEREAS, We are also informed that the Lodge in Chicago over which the G.
M. of the G. L. presides as Master, has now before it for action petitions from
two or more negroes ; and
"WHEREAS, We have learned that the M. W. G. M. of the G. L. of Illinois is
urgent in favor of the admission of negroes into our ancient and honorable Fra-
ternity; therefore,
" Resolved, That it is with deep and unfeigned regret that we have learned
these facts, and that we deem it our imperative duty to remonstrate, in the
strongest terms, against this innovation on the rules, regulations, and obliga-
tions of the Fraternity.
"Resolved, That we can not recognize any individual of the African race as
being 'free-born,' as they are, by the constitution and laws of our country, de-
nied the rights and privileges of citizens. Neither can we extend to them the
hand of fellowship and brotherly love, believing that by so acting we would not
only be doing violence to our feelings of self-respect, but that we would be
trampling upon all of the landmarks of the Institution.
"Resolved, That the course pursued by the M. W. G. M. of the G. L. of this
State, in this matter, is, in our opinion, unworthy of the high office to which he
has been promoted, and, if persisted in, will inevitably lead to the destruction,
not only of the harmony of the G. L. of this State, but will be destructive of the
Institution itself; and that unless he desists from the effort to introduce negroes
into the Institution, we must, as members of the G. L.. solemnly protest against
his conduct, as being derogatory to and unbecoming the presiding officer of any
Lodge, much more so as the G. M.
" Resolved, That we deem it highly derogatory to the Institution for a blue
Lodge even to receive a petition from an individual not recognized as a 'free-
man,' much more so to entertain and act upon it, and if such course is persisted
in, we shall deem it our imperative duty to disconnect our Lodge from said
Lodge, as well as the Grand Lodge, which will permit one of its subordinate
Lodges so to act.
"Resolved, That if negroes are admitted into the Lodge at Chicago, or other
place under the jurisdiction of our G. L., we shall at the next regular meeting of
our Lodge, after learning said fact, tender our charter to the G. L., and thus
dissolve our connection with such un-masonic conduct.
"Resolved, That a copy of these proceedings be forwarded to each Lodge in
this State, with the request that they take immediate action thereon, and inform
us thereof, and that a copy be sent to the G. M., that he may see the estimation
in which his efforts are held by a part of the Fraternity, and also a copy be for-
warded to the G. Lodges of Missouri and Kentucky.
" On motion of Bro. A. Dunlap, the Secretary be authorized to have
fifty copies of the foregoing preamble and resolutions printed, which
motion prevailed. There being no further business, the Lodge was
closed in due and ancient form.
(Signed) " W. W. HAPPY, M.
" J. HESLEP, Sec."
ACTION HAD BY OTHER LODGES.
BY BODLEY LODGE NO. 1.
" Communications from Harmony Lodge No. 3, Jacksonville, St. John's
Lodge No. 13, of Peru, and St. Clair Lodge No. 24, of Belleville, upon the
366 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
subject of the admission of negroes into the Fraternity, were read, and
referred to a committee of three, with instructions to correspond with
the M. W. Grand Master of Illinois and with the Lodges at Chicago, to
ascertain the facts on the subject and report. Breth. Ralston, Crockett,
and Watson were appointed the committee." — February 2, 1846.
"The committee to whom were referred sundry communications from
sister Lodges, upon the subject of the initiation of negroes, asked to be
discharged. The request was granted, after the reading of the commu-
nication from the Lodges in Chicago." — March 2, 1846.
EQUALITY LODGE NO. 2,
Took no action on this matter, as far as is shown by the record.
BY SPRINGFIELD LODGE NO. 4.
"A communication from Harmony Lodge, at Jacksonville, was read,
and, on motion, referred to a select committee of three, consisting of
Breth. "Weber, Zwisler, and McNeill." — January 2, 1846.
" The committee to whom was referred a communication from Har-
mony Lodge No. 3, at Jacksonville, made their report, which was unan-
imously adopted :
"The committee appointed to take into consideration and report upon a cer-
tain preamble and resolutions which were adopted by Harmony Lodge No. 3, and
sent to this and other Lodges in the State, beg leave to report that they addressed
a communication to M. W. G. Master Walker, on the subject matter embraced
in said preamble and resolutions, with the view of being put in possession of the
facts in the case, before we presumed to act in the premises, and are most happy
to state that the communication received is satisfactory in the highest de-
gree; establishing beyond all doubt, that the charges preferred against him by
our brethren of Harmony Lodge are false in fact, and should not for a moment
disturb the peace and harmony of our Order, nor interfere to any extent with
the private feeling of any individual brother, whatever may be his feelings of
opposition to the admission of 'negroes' into our ancient and honorable Order.
" We beg leave to remark that we regret most deeply the course pursued in
this matter, by our brethren of Harmony Lodge, as being calculated to produce
much mischief, — to interfere most seriously with that spirit of charity and Ma-
sonic confidence so indispensably necessary to our prosperity as an Order, as
well as to our respect and esteem in public consideration. We must be permitted
farther to remark, that we fear much, that this whole affair has proceeded from
considerations of personal ill feeling on the part of Harmony Lodge against our
worthy G. Master. The evidence upon which they have instituted so many
grave and serious charges against him, must have been very slight and incon-
siderable indeed ; and it seems apparent to your committee, that, had our
brethren of Harmony Lodge No. 3 given themselves but little trouble to ascer-
tain the facts in the case, they might have been obtained ; and that in acting as
they have done in the absence of correct information, which could have been so
easily obtained, they have violated many of the noblest principles of our Order,
and deserves the censure of the Fraternity at large. We hope our brethren of
HISTORY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS. 367
ihe Masonic family throughout the State will not allow themselves for a moment
•to be disturbed by the recent highly improper outbreak on the part of our
brethren of Harmony Lodge No. 3. And we further assure our brethren that
we are as jealous on the subject of introducing 'negroes' into our honorable
Order as they can possibly be, and are ready to oppose most uncompromisingly
;iny and every such attem pt made by whom it may be — we will never submit to
it in any form, nor do we believe that our G. Master is himself in favor of any
such thing; in fact, he declared to us his unwillingness 10 allow any such
>thing unless the Grand Lodge should fully and most directly approve it.
" We hope our brethren of St. Clair Lodge will see the necessity of recalling
their recommendation for a convention in May next. We suggest most respect-
fully that the whole matter be referred to the action of our next Grand Lodge,
when and where we are assured the whol e matter will come up and be determined
•to the satisfaction of all concerned.
" We append a few extracts from our worthy Grand Master's letter, which we
hope and believe will prove as satisfactory to our brethren at large as to our-
selves, as furnishing in part the evidence of the falsity of the charges contained
in the communication from our brethren of Harmony Lodge No. 3. Also, that
we have received information through other sources, entitled to the fullest con-
fidence, from brethren residing at Chicago, that the statements of our G. Master
-are true and faithful, and may be most confidently relied upon.
"The first charge is as follows, to-wit : 'A negro is admitted to all the
privileges of the Fraternity in the Lodg e at Chicago :' to which our G. M. re-
plies :
'"This is false— for that no "negro " is a member of any Lodge in Chicago or
3.i in the enjoyment of any such privileges now, nor ever has been.'
"2d charge: 'The Lodge in Chicago over which the Grand Master of the
-Grand Lodge presides as Master has now before it for action, petitions from two
or more negroes.'
" Reply. — 'This is false — for that, first, lam not now Master of any Lodge in
•Chicago; and second, in that no Lodge over which I ever did preside as Master
•ever received, or had offered to it to be received, a petition from any negro or
negroes.'
"3d charge: 'The M. W. G. M. of G. L. of Illinois is urgent in favor of the ad-
mission of negroes into our ancient and honorable Fraternity.'
"Reply. — 'This is false — for that I have never in any Lodge whatever either
urged, recommended, or said one word in favor of the admission of negroes
into our ancient and honorable Order. Thus, brethren, do I plead : is not this
sufficient ?'
"Your committee would recommend for adoption the following resolution:
" Resolved, That the above report be printed, and that a copy of the same be
.•sent to each Lodge in the State, to the Grand Lodges of Ohio, Kentucky,
Missouri, Indiana, and Iowa, and to the M. W. G. Master,
"All of which is respectfully submitted,
"GEO. R.WEBER, ~)
JAMES Z WISLER, JR., V Committee."
KA. McNEILL, j
BY FRIENDSHIP LODGE NO.- 7.
"A letter from Harmony Lodge No. 3, of Jacksonville, Ills., contain-
ing a preamble and resolutions in relation to the admission of a negro by
368 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
one of the Lodges at Chicago, to the rights and privileges of the Ma-
sonic Fraternity, which was read and ordered to be placed on file, and,
on motion, Charles T. Chase, John B. Nash, and Lorenzo Wood were ap-
pointed a committee to draft a protest and resolutions, expressive of the
sentiments and feelings of this Lodge upon the same subject, and report
at the next meeting." — Dec. — , 184$.
"The committee appointed at the last communication to draft resolu-
tions expressive of the sentiments and feelings of this Lodge, in relation
to the admission of negroes into one of the Lodges at Chicago, through
their chairman, C. T. Chase, submitted the following preamble and res-
olutions :
"WHEREAS, Information has been communicated to us by Harmony Lodge
No. 3, of Jacksonville. Illinois, that a negro has been admitted to all the rights
urgent in favor of the admission of negroes into our ancient and honorable
and privileges of Masonry, by a Masonic Lodge in Chicago, and also that the
Lodge over which the M. W. G. M. of the Grand Lodge of Illinois presides as
Master, has before it for action petitions from other negroes; therefore, be it
"Resolred, By Friendship Lodge No. 7, that if this information be correct, and
any Lodge or Lodges in Chicago, or elsewhere, have admitted negroes to the
rights and privileges of Ancient Freemasonry, we feel called upon to declare
that their course is, in our opinion, in opposition to the fundamental principles
of Masonry, and if suffered to be continued, will tend to destroy the peace and
harmony of the Masonic Fraternity.
"2d. That if the M. W. G. M. of the Grand Lodge of Illinois has been privy to
and aided in this unwarrantable innovation upon our ancient customs, he has
forfeited our esteem, and we consider him unworthy of the high and honorable
station he now fills.
"3d. Resolved, That we approve of the course suggested by St. Clair Lodge
No. 24, that a convention of delegates from all the Lodges subject to the Grand
Lodge of Illinois, be held at Peoria, on the first Thursday of April next, to de-
termine the most proper course to be pursued concerning this (if the information
received by us be correct) most unworthy and unexampled proceedure of the
M. \V. G. M. of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, and of the Masonic Lodges of Chicago,
and that we will send a delegate to the said convention.
"4th. Resolved, That a copy of the above proceedings be sent to each of our
sister Lodges, and to the M. W. G. M. of the Grand Lodge of Illinois."
"On motion of Bro. R. B. Loveland, the foregoing preamble and reso-
lutions were unanimously adopted, and ordered to be entered on rec-
ord."— January 22, 1846.
" A communication from the Lodges in Chicago was presented and
read, and ordered to be placed on file." — February 12, 1846.
" A communication from the M. W. G. M. was read, and ordered to be
placed on file."— March 12, 1846.
BY MACON LODGE NO. 8.
" A letter was read from Ilarmony Lodge No. 3. Bro. Gorin moved
that a committee be appointed to take into consideration the contents
of said letter; thereupon the W. M. appointed the following brethren as
said committee, viz.: Gorin, Stamper, and L. Ashton." — January 10,
1846.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 369
" The letter from Harmony Lodge was then taken into consideration.
The committee appointed by the W. M. reported the following preamble
and resolutions, which were unanimously adopted :
'• \VHERE\S, It has been represented to us that the Lodge at the city of Chicago,
over which the G. M. of G. L. presides, has admitted a negro to all the benefits
of Freemasonry, and that there is at present two or more petitions before that
Lodge from negroes, and that the G. M. of the G. L. urges and gives his sanction
to such proceedings ; therefore,
"Resolved. That we deeply regret that such is the fact, and that the G. M. of this
State should give his sanction to an act so degrading and highly injurious to
Masonry.
"Resolved, That we do not, nor ever can we, under existing circumstances,
consider negroes entitled to the benefits of Masonry, and that we would by far
prefer (however highly we prize them) depriving ourselves of its benefits, than
submit to such innovations on the rules and regulations of our ancient and
honored Institution.
"Reso'oed, That if the G. M. does, as has been represented to us, urge the
admission of negroes to the benefits of Masonry, that he has assumed ground
that is not tenable, and a position in which no true Mason will support him,
unless biased by other motives than the welfare of our beloved Institution.
"Resolved, That should such acts be persisted in, we shall deem it our impera-
tive duty to tender at the next regular communication of the G. L. our charter,
and dissolve all connection with it, for we never can, nor will we ever give pur
sanction to an act so debasing, and in its nature calculated to injure an Institu-
tion we hold so dear.
"Resolved, That a copy of the above preamble and resolutions be forwarded to
the Chicago Lodges, and to Harmony Lodge No. 3, and to all the Lodges of the
State." — January 13, 18,'$.
On the 7th of February the circular of Springfield Lodge No. 4 (which
was well calculated to pour oil on the troubled waters), and the circular
from the Chicago Lodges, which will be given in its order, were received,
when the tide began to turn, and the following action was had :
" Communications were then read from the Chicago, Springfield, and
Shawneetown Lodges.
" Bro. Gorin moved a reconsideration of the notion of the Lodge in
reference to the circular from Harmony Lodge, which carried.
" Bro. King moved that the resolution passed at our last meeting, or-
dering a copy of our preamble and resolutions (elicited by the circular
from Harmony Lodge No. 3), to be sent to each Lodge in the State, be
reconsidered, which carried.
" Bro. Gorin moved that a committee of five be appointed to take into
reconsideration the circular of Harmony Lodge No. 3, which carried.
" Breth. Gorin, Armstrong, King, Pringle,and Braden, were appointed
as said committee by the Worshipful."
" The committee to which was referred the circulars from Harmony
Lodge and Chicago Lodges, asked for further time to report, which was
granted." — March 7, 1840.
" Several letters from sister Lodges, on the subject of the circular of
Harmony Lodge No. 3, were ordered to be filed without reading."
* a x- « The committee on the Harmony and Chicago circulars re-
ported the following preamble and resolutions, which were adopted :
—20
370 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
" WHEREAS, a circular lias been received from Harmony Lodge No. 3, charging
the Lodges at Chicago with admitting free negroes to all the benefits of Masonry,
and the VV. G. M. with giving his sanction to the same, and whereas also, a cir-
cular has been received from the Lodges at Chicago, as also a note from the W.
G. M., denying said charges, therefore,
'•Re-ioleed, That we deeply regret that Harmony Lodge No. 3 should have
taken so hasty action upon a matter so highly important to the Masonic world,
without the highest and most unquestioned authority. While we are happy to
find that the charges made by said Lodge are unfounded in fact, and that the
Lodges at Chicago and the W. G. M. stand exculpated before the Masonic
world.
'•Resolved, That the resolutions of the committee heretofore appointed upon
this subject, directing the Secretary to send copies of their report to tho W.
G. M., and the several Lodges of this State, be rescinded.
(Signed) - "J. R. GORIN,
JAMES KING,
H. J. ARMSTRONG.
J. Y. BRA DEN,
—April 11, 1W>. C. H. PRINGLE."
BY ST. JOHN'S NO. 13.
•"The circular from Harmony Lodge No. 3, at Jacksonville, Illinois,
"having been read in open Lodge, and its contents freely discussed, it
was moved and seconded that the resolves stipulated in said circular,
as copied in our book on pages 40 and 41, be passed by our Lodge in such
form as would apply to our Lodge, and that the ayes and noes be taken-
Passed unanimously.
"Ayes.— S. Norton, John Pentland, J. R. Merritt, William Cook, T. B.
Elliott, George "W. Gilson, D. W. Baker, Ira Hatron, William Paul,
Raphael Oppenheim, Lewis Oppenheim, Warren Brown — the vote being
unanimous." — January 8, 1846.
Following this is a list of the Lodges and persons to whom printed
copies were sent, which was to each Lodge in the State, the Grand
Master, and the Grand Lodges of Missouri and Kentucky.
" The circular issued by this Lodge, January 8, A. L. 5846, wherein we
adopted the circular issued by Harmony Lodge No. 3, respecting the ad-
mission of people of color in the Lodge at Chicago, and particularly in
the Lodge over which the Grand Master was said to preside, came up
for consideration, whereupon the following resolutions were adopted:
"Resolved, That we deem the action of the Lodges of Chicago, and the answer
of the M. W. G. M., as satisfactory, and a complete refutation of the charges
alleged by Harmony Lodge No. 3, and subsequently adopted by St. John's
Lodge No. 13.
"Resolved, That the censure cast upon the Lodges of Chicago, and on our M.
W. G. M., is deeply regretted, and trusting that our past errors and their kind
.nail truly Masonic forgiveness, forbearance, and charity towards us, has taught
us a salutary lesson. We take this opportunity of rendering to our brethren
•the assurance of our confirmed fraternal love.
"Resolved, That a copy of these proceedings be forwarded to each Lodge in
this State, and also a co'py to the Grand Lodges of the States of Illinois, Ken-
tucky, and Missouri. — April 0, 18t,H.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 371
BY WARREN LODGE NO. 14.
" The Lodge was opened in due form, whereupon there was a commu-
nication presented from Harmony Lodge No. 3, Jacksonville, desiring
action :
On motion, the following preamble and resolutions were unanimously
adopted :
" To the M. H'. G. Mauler, of the O. Lodge of Illinois, and to Ihe several Lodges of
Free and Accepted Masons in Chicago — the Master, Wardens and Brethren of
Warren Lodge No. lit, send greeting:
" WHSRE\S, We have received a communication from Harmony Lodge No. 3, at
Jacksonville, informing us that the Lodges at Chicago, and especially that the
SI. \V. G. Master within the Lodge over which he presides, seem disposed to ad-
mit negroes to the privileges of our Fraternity, therefore,
"Resolved, That the admission of negroes to such privileges, would in our
opinion be in violation of ancient usage, and that the legal and other disabilities
under which they labor, will forever preveht their admission upon an equality
with others, because many of the duties which should be reciprocal can not be
performed by them.
"Resolved, That no past action of ours has placed us under any Fraternal
obligations to negroes, either by word or implication, and that we can not be
compelled to recognize them as Masons.
"Resolved, That we believe the admission of negroes into the Fraternity in any
Lodge, will undoubtedly tend to the destruction not only of the harmony of the
Grand Lodge of this State, but will be the destruction of the Institution itself.
"Resolved, That we conjure the Grand Master, Masters and Brethren of the
Lodges at Chicago, to make no effort to thrust unwelcome members into the
Fraternity — finally,
"Resolved, unanimously, That if any negro has been admitted, or shall here-
after be admitted into any of their Lodges (or any other Lodge) with the consent
of the M. W. G. M., we shall, on hearing the fact, recommend to our sister
Lodges in this State, the convocation of a Masonic convention, to consist of all
those who would be proper members of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, for the ex-
amining of the conduct of the Grand Master, and if necessary for the reorganization
of the Grand Lodge.
" On motion,
" Ordered, That the Secretary be instructed to transmit to the Lodges in
Chicago a copy of the foregoing preamble and resolutions, with the desire that
they inform this Lodge whether the facts charged by Harmony Lodge No. :>,
&t Jacksonville, be true or not.
(Signed) " J. EDWARD REARDEN,
— January 10, 18!iS. Secretary."
BY PEORIA LODGE NO. 15.
" Lodge opened on the third degree of Masonry in due form.
" A communication was received from Harmony Lodge No. 3, Jack-
sonville, 111. On motion of Bro. Rankin, and the consent of the breth-
ren of the Lodge, a committee of three was appointed by the Chair, to
ascertain whether the charges contained in said communication, against
the W. G. Master of this State, be true, and report at the next regular
communication. Breth Sweat, Rankin, and Durst were appointed said
committee." — January 10, 1846.
372 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"Bro. Rankin, on the part of the committee appointed at the last
regular to inquire into certain charges made by Harmony Lodge against
the several Lodges at Chicago and the M. W. Grand Master of the Grand
Lodge, made a report. After reading the same, and a communication
from the several Lodges of Chicago, it was resolved that the report pre-
sented by Bro. Rankin be received and laid on the table." — February 7 ,
1346.
The report is not recorded, nor is there evidence on the records of any
farther action by No. 15, on this subject.
BY TEMPERANCE LODGE NO. 16.
This Lodge adopted, on the 12th January, 1846, the resolutions of Har-
mony Lodge, with the necessary change as to the name and number of
the Lodge, as expressive of their sentiments in regard to the matter in-
volved therein.
"The memorials of Springfield Lodge No. 4, Lafayette Lodge No. 18,
Apollo Lodge No. 32, and Oriental Lodge No. 33, were received and laid
on the table. * * *
" On motion of Bro. J. D. Gorin, the memorials of Springfield and Chi-
cago Lodges were taken from the table and referred to a committee of
Breth. A. Lee, D. D. McKee, and W. M. Black, who were instructed to
report thereon at an adjourned meeting of this Lodge, to be held the 23d
instant." — February 9, 1846.
"The committee to whom was referred the communications of Chicago
Lodges, and Springfield Lodge, beg leave to report the following preamble and
resolutions :
"WHEREAS, this Lodge received a communication from Harmony Lodge Xo. 3,
containing a preamble and resolutions making charges of a serious nature, and
censuring our M. W. G. M. and the Lodges in Chicago; and the said Harmony
Lodge being in good standing, and in our opinion, worthy of all confidence, we
as a Lodge (with some, slight alterations) adopted the preamble and resolutions
of said Lodge, and,
" WHEREAS, we have since received circulars from Springfield Lodge No. 4, at
Springfield, Lafayette Lodge No. 18, Apollo Lodge No. 32, and Oriental Lodge No.
33, at Chicago, denying the charges brought against the Most Worshipful Grand
Master, and the Chicago Lodges, therefore,
'•Resolved, That we as a Lodge suspend our opinion, and all further action in
this matter until the next Grand Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge,
to whom we most respectfully suggest it be referred.
i: Resolved, That although we suspend our opinion in regard to the charges
brought by Harmony Lodge No. 3, we must, as a Lodge, reiterate our remon-
strance against the admission of negroes to the privileges of our Fraternity.
"Resolved, That a copy of the foregoing preamble and resolutions be forwarded
to the M. W. G. M. Grand Lodge of Illinois.
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
(Signed) " W. M. BLACK,
D. D. McKEE,
A3AHEL LEE.
"The above preamble and resolutions were, on motion, unanimously
adopted." — March 9, ISjI.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 373
BY MACOMB LODGE NO. 17.
Preceding the meeting at which Macomb Lodge took action upon the
circular of Harmony Lodge, appears the following:
"Bro. Junior Warden:— You will please call a meeting of Macomb Lodge No. 17,
at 6 o'clock, January 1st, 1846, to take into consideration special business.
"W. T. HEAD,
S. W., and Acting Master Lodge No. 17."
"January 1st, 1846, the Lodge met and was opened on the third degree.
" On motion, the Secretary read a communication from Harmony
Lodge No. 3, whereupon the following preamble and resolutions were
offered and unanimously adopted:"
[The preamble is the same in substance as that adopted by Harmony
Lodge.]
"Resolved, By Macomb Lodge No 17, that we most solemnly protest against the
proceeding of Chicago Lodges, in admitting negroes to the privileges of Masonry.
"Resolved, That we highly censure the M. W. G. M. of the Grand Lodge of
Illinois, for his unmasonic conduct, and deem him unworthy the station he
now occupies, in encouraging, permitting, tolerating, or conniving at the admis-
sion of negroes to the rights and privileges of the ancient Institution of Masonry.
"Resolved, That we, as a body legally constituted, and individually, as members
of the Fraternity, can not and will not extend the hand of fellowship to any who
violate the first principles of the Institution by receiving and acting upon
petitions of negroes for initiation, and by their unwarranted conduct are striking
a death blow to the future well being and prosperity of Masonry.
"Resolved, That we call upon the M. W. G. M. of the G. L. of Illinois; W. M,,
Wardens, and brethren of Chicago Lodges, to desist from such acts in future,
and that we admonish them in a spirit of brotherly love and forbearance of the
fatal consequences of such acts, and in case they persist therein, we recommend
to the Grand Lodge of Illinois, at their next regular communication, to surrender
their charter, and thereby dissolve the Institution of Freemasonry in the State
of Illinois.
"Resolved, That we request the M. W. G. M. of the G. L. of Illinois to resign the
station he now holds in the G. L. of Illinois.
"Resolved, That in case the Chicago Lodges persist in admitting negroes, that
we will, at our next meeting, after being informed of the facts, surrender our
charter to the Grand Lodge, and hold ourselves wholly absolved from those who
are guilty of such unmasonic conduct.
"Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be forwarded to the M. W. G. M. of
the G. L. of Illinois, and to the Secretary of Harmony Lodge, at Jacksonville,
and to the Grand Lodges of Kentucky and Missouri."
BY CASS LODGE NO. 23.
"The W. M. explained [that] the object of this meeting [was] to take
into consideration the contents of a circular letter received from Har-
mony Lodge No. 3, at Jacksonville.
"The following preamble and resolutions were read by Secretary and
unanimously adopted, after the Secretary [had] read the circular letter
from Harmony Lodge No. 3, Jacksonville :
" WHEREAS, A circular letter has been received by this Lodge from our sister,
Harmony Lodge No. 3, at Jacksonville, informing this Lodge that a negro has
been admitted to all of the privileges of our Fraternity, in the Lodges nt Chicago,
and also that the petition of two or more negroes are now under consideration
in the Lodge over which our M. W. G. M. presides as Master; therefore,
374 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
" Resolved, That it is with the deepest regret that we learn these facts, and that
this Lodge solemnly protest against conduct so well calculated to destroy, not
only Ihe harmony of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, but also the Institution itself.
"'Resolved, That we do affectionately appeal to our brethren at Chicago to de-
fist from admiting negroes into the Fraternity until such time as the M. W. G.
Lodge shall convene and act upon the subject.
"Resolved, That we have the fullest confidence in the integrity of the Grand
Lodge of Illinois, and believe that it will, in its wisdom, determine the practice
before alluded to as un-masonic.
"Resolved, That it is the deliberate opinion of this Lodge that the M. W. G. M.
ought at once resign his authority into the hands of the L). G. M., and is hereby
respectfully requested to do so.
"Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions, properly attested, be sent to-
Harmony Lodge No. 3, to the Lodges at Chicago, to the W. G. M., and to the
D. G. M.— .Dec. 20, ISM.
BY ST. CLAIR LODGE NO. 24.
"Lodge opened in the Master's degree. The W. M. stated that the
reason of the call for a meeting was in consequence of a commuication
received from Harmony Lodge No. 3, Jacksonville, Ills., which was
read to the Lodge." [Then follows a synopsis of the circular of Harmony
Lodge.] " On motion, the Secretary was directed to write a letter to the
Most Worthy Grand Master, and inquire of him whether any foundation
existed for the above charges. On motion, the above motion was re-
considered, and on motion the Secretary was authorized to have a series
of resolutions, which had been previously submitted and adopted,
printed and disposed of according to the directions of the 8th resolution.
The following are the [preamble and] resolutions as adopted :
"WHEREAS. Tt has been communicated to us by Harmony Lodge No. 3, of Jack-
sonville, Illinois, that information has been received by said Lodge through a
reliable source, 'that a negro is admitted to all the rights and privileges of
Masonry by Masonic Lodges in Chicago, and also that the Lodge over which the
Most Worshipful Grand Master of theGrand Lodge of Illinois presides as Master,
has now before it for action, petitions from two or more negroes; and also that
the M. W. G. M. is urgent in favor of the admission of negroes into our ancient
and honorable Fraternity'; therefore be it
"Resolved, By St. Clair Lodge No. 24:
"1st. That we learn with regret this innovation upon the ancient usages and
landmarks of our time honored Institution.
"2d. That those Lodges guilty of these innovations have, by acting thus, for-
feited all claim to our confidence and respect, and have rendered themselves
unworthy a place in the great family of Masons.
"3d. That should our M. W. G. M. be privy to, and have aided and abetted in
the outrages upon our rights and immunities as above stated, we feel it our
boiinden duty to most solemnly protest and remonstrate against his conduct as
being contrary to the fundamental principles of Masonry, and unworthy the con-
fidence reposed in him by those who elevated him to the high place he occupies
as presiding officer of the'G. L. of the State of Illinois.
" 4th. That we look upon the above innovation as aiming a deadly blow to the
peace and happiness of the Fraternity in these United States. Hitherto. Masonry
lias afforded a peaceful asylum to its votaries from the North and South, the
Eu«t and West. Upon the beautiful level of Masonry, we would all meet in
harmony, however much we might differ in regard to other subjects.
" But let the above violation be persisted in, and distrust and a want of confi-
dence, on the part of southern Masons, will be the result. This should not be.
Heaven, in her wise dispensations, never intended that there should be a re-
ciprocal enjoyment of all social privileges between the white man and negro.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 375
"The Masonic tie is too sacred, the Union is too close, to admit to the inner
chamber of our hearts, those whose blood the Almighty has by an immutable-
Jaw declared should never traverse our veins.
"5th. We approve the action of Harmony Lodge No. 3, and will sustain her iit
every proper means to purge the evil from among us.
"6th. That we believe under existing circumstances in the propriety of re-
commending a convention of delegates from all the Lodges subject to the G.
L. of Illinois, to meet at Peoria.
"7th. That we respectfully request all the subordinate Lodees to send one
delegate, to meet on the first Thursday, in April, 1816, to determine what course
it would be most proper to pursue, so that we may be purged from this great
evil, and again hold a place in the affections of the Masonic bosom.
" 8th. Resolved, That a copy of the above proceedings be sent to all our sister
Lodges, also to the Grand Lodges of Missouri. Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, nn«f
also a copy to the M. W. G. M. of Illinois, that he may know our sentiments,
and that our sister Lodges be requested to inform us whether they will meet Us
in a grand convention in Peoria, as ab >ve proposed."
Then follows the certificate of the Secretary regarding the correct-
ness of the record of the resolutions.
"Several communications were read from sister Lodges in relation to
the difficulty at Chicago, when, on motion, they were all submitted to a
committee, consisting of Bros. Morrison, Goforth, and Taylor." — February
10, 1846.
"The committee on the Chicago difficulties, and the various commu-
nications from sister Lodges, made their report. On motion, the report
was received and ordered to be placed on the minutes. On motion, the
Secretary was ordered to get a sufficient number of copies of the report
printed, and forwarded as provided for in the report, and draw on the-
Treasurer for the same.
" The report is as follows :
" To St. Clair Lodge Ab. 2!t, of Ancient, Free, and Accepted Masons:
" The committee appointed to take into consideration certain communica-
tions from our sister Lodges in relation to certain irregularities practiced by
the Lodges at Chicago, among which communications are two, to which the
attention of your committee was more particularly directed. One from the
Lodge at Springfield, and the other from the several Lodges at Chicago. Your
committee, upon a strict examination of the charges, which originated in Har-
mony Lodge No. 3, at Jacksonville, and the replications to those charges, by the
Chicago Lodges, and the answer made by the M. W. G. M. of the Grand Lodge
of Illinois, to inquiries made of him, by the Chicago and Springfield Lodges,
respectfully report that they do not find that the M. W. G. M. is obnoxious to
censure. From all that has been elicited, we can not find that anything tangi-
ble rests against our M. W. G. M. of the Grand Lodge of Illinois. But your
committee are compelled to state that the Chicago Lodges. as appears from their
own circular, have heretofore occupied a very unwarrantable position, viz : In
admitting negroes or mulattoes, into any of the rights and immunities of Ancient
Freemasonry; and therefore, although Harmony Lodge was misinformed in
relation to our M. W. G. M. (so far as we have data to found our conclusions
upon), yet it appears from the circular of the Chicago Lodges, that Harmony
Lodge did not materially err, in relation to the aforesaid Lodges at Chicago.
Therefore, as the head of our Institution stands innocent and acquitted, and but
a moiety of our Masonic family are implicated in the supposed violations, and.
376 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
upon the suggestion of our sister Lodge at Springfield, your committee recom-
mend that the call that was made by St. Clair Lodge for a convention in April
next, be suspended, and in view of the excitement that prevails throughout the
Fraternity in our State, your committee would recommend that the M. W. G. M.
he respectfully requested to convoke a special meeting of the Grand Lodge as
early as practicable, for the purpose of adjusting the difficulties that now pre-
vail within our borders. Your committee also recommend that a copy of this
report, together with a letter from the Secretary, be forwarded to our M. W. G.
M., requesting his compliance with the suggestions in the foregoing report.
Your committee also recommend that our sister Lodges be furnished with a
copy of this report.
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
(Signed) "C. G. Y. TAYLOR, 1 ,, ... „
W. G. GOFOKTH. j (-omm'ttee-
—February 17, 18W.
BY HIRAM LODGE NO. 26.
"There was a circular received from Harmony Lodge No. o, Jackson-
ville, 111., stating that a negro had been admitted to all the privileges
of our Fraternity in the Lodge at Chicago. The same was referred to a
committee which consisted of N. D. Morse, L. Fuller, J. Price, Joel Lee,
and William McMurtry, with instructions to report on the 17th inst., at
our next meeting."- — January JO. 1846.
" The committee appointed at our last regular communication on the
circular received from Harmony Lodge, Jacksonville, made the follow-
ing report :
"WHEREAS, It has been represented to us by a circular received from Harmony
Lodge No. 3, at Jacksonville, that a negro is admitted to all the privileges of our
Fraternity, in the Lodges at Chicago; and,
" WHEREAS, We are informed that the Lodge in Chicago over which the G. M.
of the G. L. presides as Master, has now before it for action petitions from two
or more negroes; and,
"WHEREAS, We have learned that the M. W. G. M. of the G. L. of Illinois is
urgent in favor of the admission of negroes into our ancient and honorable
Fraternity ; and,
" WHERE vs, A sister Lodge has expressed her views and sentiments in the form
of resolutions, and calling upon other Lodges to do the same; and we, believing
that the admission of negroes into our Fraternity, at. the present time, is inexpe-
dient and improper,; therefore,
"Resolved. That we heartily concur in the first and third resolutions as adopted
by Harmony Lodge.
"Resolved, That it is inexpedient at the present time to admit negroes into pur
ancient Fraternity, as it is calculated to destroy the harmony which exists
among our sister Lodges, which are situated in different parts of our country.
" Rexulv&l, That we transmit a copy of these proceedings to the G. M., and one
to Harmony Lodge No. 3, forthwith, signed by the Master and Secretary." — Jan-
uary 17, 18W.
"Two letters received from sister Lodges, viz.: St. Clair Lodge ami
St. John's Lodge." — February 7, 134$-
'• Two letters received from two sister Lodges, viz.: Chicago Lodge and
Springfield Lodge No. 4, and laid on the table." * * * The last res/-
olution passed Jan. 17. is rescinded." — February 20, IS.fi.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
BY PIASA LODGE NO. 27.
" The Lodge opened on the Master's degree in due and ancient form,
•when the Secretary laid before the Lodge a letter received from Harmony
Lodge No. 3, in relation to the admission of negroes into our Order by
the Lodges of Chicago; whereupon the following preamble and resolu-
tions were unanimously adopted :
"WHEREAS, A copy of the preamble and resolutions of Harmony Lodge No. 3,
at Jacksonville, Illinois, informing us of and remonstrating against the admission
of negroes into our ancient and honorable Fraternity by the Lodge in Chicago
over which our Grand Master presides, has been laid before us; and
" WHEREAS, We have been reque.-ted by said first mentioned Lodge to take
some immediate action thereon; therefore, be it
"Resolved. That we view with deep regret the course pursued by the Lodge at
Chicago (if the information be correct) in countenancing or entertaining the
petition of negroes for admission therein.
hand of fellowship and brotherly love.
"Resolvei, That a copy of the above preamble and resolutions be forwarded by
the Secretary to Harmony Lodge No. 3, to the Grand Master of this State, and to
the Grand Lodges of Missouri and Kentucky."— January 6, 18UG.
" Lodge opened on the Master's degree in due and ancient form, when
a communication was laid before the Lodge from the several Masonic
Lodges in Chicago, relative to certain charges preferred against said
Lodges and the M. W. G. M. of the State of Illinois, by Harmony Lodge
No. 3, of Jacksonville, which was read.
" On motion of Bro. Geo. T. Brown, the following resolution was
adopted :
"Resolved, That the communications from the several Lodges in this State,
together with the circular from the Chicago Lodges, and also the M. W. Grand
Master's letter to Bro. Brown, of this Lodge, be referred to a committee of three,
with instructions to report upon the same at our next meeting.
"Whereupon the W. Master appointed Breth. Bailhache, Brown, and
Edwards said committee." — February 17, 184.6.
"The Lodge opened on the first degree in common form. * * * the
Lodge opened on the second degree in due form. * * * The Lodge
opened on the third degree in due and ancient form. * * * The
•committee to whom were referred the communications of the several
Lodges upon the action of Harmony Lodge No. 3, in relation to the
Lodges of Chicago, and the conduct of the M. W. G. Master of the State
of Illinois, submitted the following report, which was, on motion, unan-
imously adopted :
"The committee to which has been referred the 'circular from the Lodges in
Chicago, Illinois,' to the several Lodges in the State, in relation to certain pro-
ceedings of Harmony Lodge No. 3, at a meeting held in Jacksonville, on the 10th
day of December, A. D. 18-15, with the accompanying documents, respectfully
378 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
beg leave to report, that having given the different matters submitted to them
all the consideration their high importance demands, they are gratified to be
able to assure their brethren of the Lodge and the Fraternity generally, that the
charges preferred against our M. W. G. M. of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, and
the subordinate Lodges in Chicago, or either of them, by Harmony Lodge No. 3.
at their meeting aforesaid, are not only unsupported by testimony, but also
disproved by positive evidence. Your committee therefore recommend the
adoption of the following resolutions:
"Resolved, That the circular from the Lodges in Chicago, of January 26, 184G,
is entirely satisfactory, and fully exculpates the M. W. G M. of the Grand Lodge
of Illinois and the several Lodges in Chicago from the grave accusations brought
forward against them by Harmony Lodge No. 3, at a meeting held at Jackson-
ville, December 10, 1845.
"Resolved, That the course pursued by Harmony Lodge No. 3, at their meeting
aforesaid, in proceeding upon mere hearsay testimony to pronounce the M. W.
G. M. of the Grand Lodge of this State as unworthy of the high office to which
lie has been promoted, and condemning his conduct 'as derogatory to and un-
becoming the presiding officer of any Lodge,' is in the highest degree reprehens-
ible and unmasonic, and deserving the unqualified censure of every member of
the Masonic Fraternity.
"Resolved, That the precipitate action of St. John's Lodge No. 13, at their
meeting in Peru, LaSalle county, January 8, A. L. 5846, and of St. Clair Lodge
No. 24, at their meeting in Belleville, January 12, 1846, A. L. 584t>, upon the pro-
ceedings of Harmony Lodge No. 3, is much to be regretted, inasmuch as it
precluded that serious investigation and inquiry which the grave character of
those proceedings imperiously required.
"Resolved, That we deeply deplore the hasty and premature concurrence of
this Lodge, given at their meeting held in this city, January 16, A. L. 5846, in
proceedings of Harmony Lodge, and the indirect censure then bestowed upon
the M. W. G. M. of the Grand Lodge of this State, in forgetfulness of that charity
which is the first of all Masonic virtues, and of that caution which should make
every genuine Mason ' slow to hear ' and ' slow to speak ' evil of any brother.
"Resolved, That the proceedings of Springfield Lodge No. 4, at their meeting
of February 2, A. L. 5846, meet our cordial approbation and concurrence, and
that their course in first communicating the charges to the brethren implicated,
and hearing what they had to say in their defense, before proceeding to pass
judgment upon them, is perfectly honorable, fair, and Masonic, and worthy of
universal imitation in all similar eases.
"Resolved. That a copy of the foregoing report be forwarded by the Secretary
to the M. VV. G. M. of the State of Illinois, and to the several subordinate Lodge's
thereof.
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
(Signed.) "JOHN BAILHACHE, )
GEOKGE T. BROWN, ^Committee."
NELSON G. EDWARDS.)
— February 21, 181,6.
BY MONROE LODGE NO. 28.
"The Secretary read a communication from Harmony Lodge Xo. 3,
Jacksonville, Illinois, relative to the Lodge in Chicago receiving into
their Lodge negroes: whereupon, unanimously :
"Resolved, That this Lodge highly approve of the resolutions passed by s aid
Lodge, and fully concur therein; and
"Rexolved, further, That we recommend the Grand Master to resign his office.''
— January 13, 18W.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 379
BY PEKIN LODGE NO. 29.
"A communication was received from the Harmony Lodge No. 3,
Jacksonville, Illinois, upon the subject of the introduction of negroes in
the Lodges at Chicago. Upon motion, the communication was referred
to a committee of five, and the W. M. [appointed Bros.] T. E. King, A.
Woolston, W. C. Quigley, S. P. Baily, Wm. Wilkey " [said committee/ —
January 10, 184.6.
"The committee appointed to take into into consideration the com-
munication of Harmony Lodge No. 3, submitted two reports. Bro.
Woolston submitted the following :
"The committee to whom was referred the matter of a circular, originating in
Harmony Lodge No. 3, requesting the aid of this Lodge in remonstrating against
the action of Chicago Lodge, in admitting a negro or negroes into the fellowship
and order of Masons, your committee beg leave to report as follows, to-wit :
" In the opinion of your committee, this (the Pekin Lodge No. 29) nor any
other blue Lodge, posseses any judiciary powers, one over the other, but all such
power exclusively -belongs to the Grand Lodge, from whom they severally
emanate : neither would the committee advise this Lodge to express any official
opinion in regard to the lawfulness or unlawfulness of the act of the Chicago
Lodge as above named, but would leave it with the Grand Lodge of the State of
Illinois, where we have no doubt but it will undergo an impartial examination,
and meet its due reward.
"For the further government of this Lodge on the above exciting subject,
your committee would beg leave to say that it is their decided opinion that, at
this time, it would be impolitic and altogether inexpedient to admit a colored
man in their fellowship.
"Your committee would deeply regret that any excitement should be mani-
fested on this or any other occasion by Free and Ancient York Masons, a
society that has stood so many shocks of persecution and severe trials; they
have stood unmoved, and so let us stand, and so brethren we will stand to the
end of the world."
"Bro. Holmes submitted the following report:
" WHEREAS, a communication has been addressed to this Lodge by th» Har-
mony Lodge No. 3, of Jacksonville, in this State, requesting our action in the
matter of certain complaints made by the said Harmony Lodge again.- 1 the
Chicago Lodge, in relation to the admission of certain negroes into full fellow-
ship into said Lodge, and the exception [reception] of petitions for [from] other
negroes.
" 1st. Resolved, That we deeply regret that any Lodge in this State should, by
entertaining petitions from negroes who are not recognized by our State laws
as entitled to an equality with the whites, have introduced into the Craft a subject
so pregnant with evil consequences to the harmony of this Fraternity.
"2nd. Resolved, That while we extend to our brethren of Chicago the exer-
cise of that virtue which enters beyond the bounds of time, we trust that they
will ever reject from their work, all materials which would impair its harmony,
its utility, or its perpetuity.
"Urd. Beaolvtd, That we deprecate the hasty action by the Harmony Lodge
until the matter can he reported to the Grand Lodge of this State, and until
such action can be had, we can not consent to dissolve our connection with said
[Grand] Lodge.
380 HISTOEY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"4th. Resolved, That while our political and social Institutions do not recog-
nize the negro race, we will not admit them into our Lodge.
"5th. Resolved, That aside from the question of abstract right, this Lodge is
unanimously of the opinion that it is highly inexpedient and improper to coun-
tenance the admission of negroes into the Lodges of this State, and we believe
the evil s arising from their admission would far counterhaianee any good that
might be supposed to result from the same.
"After some discussion, Bro. Quigley moved to lay the reports on the
table until our next regular communication.
"Bro. Tackaberry moved an amendment, that the reports be re-com-
mitted to ."
Here the record closes abruptly, leaving us entirely in the dark as to
the result. The records of this Lodge (as before stated), from January,
1846, are not in our possession, consequently we are unable testate what
the action of No. 29 really was.
BY MT. VERNON LODGE XO. 31.
" The W. M. explained that the object of this called meeting to be to
take some action on a circular issued by Harmony Lodge No. 3, and such
other circulars and communications as had been received from other
Lodges, together with a certain communication from the M. \V. G. M. of
the G. L. of Illinois on the subject to which the aforesaid Harmony cir-
cular referred.
"Whereupon, Bro. Noah Johnston offered the following resolution,
which was adopted, to-wit:
"Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed, to whom shall be referred
all the circulars and communications which have been received from the vari-
ous Lodges in this State in relation to the conduct of the Lodges in the city of
Chicago, &c., <fec.
" Whereupon the W. M. appointed Bros. Noah Johnston, W. A. Den-
ning, and Downing Baugh said committee." — March 17, 1846.
There is no evidence on record that the above named committee ever
reported.
BY CHARLESTON LODGE NO. 35.
"The Secretary read a letter from Harmony Lodge No. 3, containing
certain preamble and resolutions in relation to the action of the Most
Worshipful Grand Master of the State of Illinois, Wm. F. Walker, and
the Chicago Lodges, in receiving and acting upon petitions from negroes,
which, on motion of Bro. E. Roach, was adopted by this Lodge, and the
preamble and resolutions ordered to be marked and placed on file,
which was accordingly done, and are now on file among the papers of
the Lodge, marked " A."— January G, l.SJff.
"The Secretary then read a communication from the R. W. Wm. F.
Walker, Grand Master of the State of Illinois, also a communication
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 381
from the Lodges in Chicago, denying the charges preferred against them
in the preamble and resolutions of Harmony Lodge No. 3, and subse-
quently adopted by this Lodge. On motion of Bro. Watson, the com-
munications were referred to a committee, with instructions to report as
soon as practicable." — February 3, 18.fi.
"The committee appointed to take into consideration and report upon certain
resolutions passed by Harmony Lodge No. 3, and subsequently adopted by
Charleston Lodge No. 35, and the communications of the R. W. Wm. F. Walker,
Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois,, and the Chicago
Lodges, in reply thereto, respectfully report :
"That whereas, a communication by our Lodge was addressed to the M. W.
G. M. Wm. F. Walker, on the subject matter embraced in the said resolutions
with a view of being put in possession of the facts in the case; we are happy to
state that from all the light received, we are satisfied there is nothing to mar
the peace and harmony of our much loved and cherished Institution. We take
the. liberty to say to our brethren that we are jealous on the subject of initiating
negroes into our Order, and would be ready at all times to oppose the same,
made by any one whosoever, nor are we authorized to believe, from all the evi-
dence that we are in possession, of that the M. W. Grand Master is himself in
favor of any such thing.
Further, we do most sincerely regret that any such difficulty should have
occurred. We suggest most respectfully that the whole matter be referred to
the action of our Grand Lodge at its next regular communication, when and
where we hope the same may be determined to the satisfaction of all concerned.
'•Your committee would recommend the adoption of the following resolution:
•' Reso'.ved, That the above report be accepted, and that a copy of the same,
with the resolution inclusive, be sent to the M. W. W. F. Walker, the Lodges at
Chicago, Harmony Lodge No. 3, and the Lodge at Springfield, No. 4.
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
"ADAM MITCHEL, 1 r ... „
JAMES WATSON. / Committee.
Kavanagh Lodge No. 30, being at that time under the jurisdiction of
the Grand Lodge of Wisconsin, took no action on this matter.
The records of Monmouth Lodge No. 37 show no action regarding the
subject matter of this chapter.
BY OCCIDENTAL LODGE U. D.
" It was, on motion, voted that the chair appoint a committee of five
persons to report on the subject of the circular from the Chicago Lodges
at a subsequent regular communication. Bros. Kelly, Caton, Dickey,
Swift, and Leland appointed by the W. Master that committee." — Feb.
0, 184.6.
"Committee to whom was submitted the subject of the circular from
Chicago, instructed to report at next regular communication." — Feb. 20,
1S4S.
382 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS
"At this communication the committee appointed to report on the
subject of the Chicago circular, made their report in the words follow-
ing, to-wit., which report being accepted, was ordered to be printed, and
the Secretary instructed to forward copies of the same to the Grand
Lodge and the several Lodges in the State, with as little delay as
possible." — March 6, 181,6.
On the opposite page is the remark, "here follows the report." If the
report was ever recorded, it has long since faded, for the page is as guilt-
less of ink as it was the day it left the mill where it was manufactured.
BY THE CHICAGO LODGES.
"CIRCULAR FROM THE LODGES IN CHICAGO, ILLINOIS.
"A circular having been received by each of the Lodges in Chicago from
Harmony Lodge No. 3, at Jacksonville, Illinois; they were convened in one body
to consider the same: that circular is as follows, to-wit:
[The circular having been before presented, we omit.]
"The above having been read, a committee, composed of three members of
each Lodge, was appointed to consider and report upon the same at a subsequent
meeting, which report is as follows, to-wit :
" The committee on behalf of the Masons, members of the several Lodges, in
Chicago, to whom was referred the circular of Harmony Lodge No. 3, at Jack-
sonville, Illinois, respectfully report: that having carefully investigated the
matters to which the communication of said Lodge relates, they will proceed to
answer them specifically, in the order therein set forth.
"1. It is thus stated in the preamble :—' WHEREAS, it has been represented
to us, by a brother in whom all confidence can be placed, that a negro is admit-
ted to all the privileges of our Fraternity in the Lodges in Chicago.'
"If this be intended as a specific charge against the Lodges In this city, we
submit the following facts in relation thereto. A. B. Lewis, a well bred mulatto
man, musician by profession, reputedly of Cherokee aboriginal blood maternally j
and paternally of African blood, now, and for a year or two past, a resident of
Chicago, is undoubtedly the individual alluded to. Hailing, as a Master Mason,
from within the jurisdiction of anotherGrand Lodge, whose diploma, duly signed,
he exhibited, he has been admitted a few times, as a visitor, to the Lodges in
this city, but he is not a member of either. That this individual, then, half
Indian and half negro, has visited the Lodges in Chicago and been admitted to
the privileges of a visiting brother, is true ; that he is an undoubted brother Ma-
son, a modest, worthy man, and 'of good report,' is equally true. And how his
exclusion from any Lodge where he might apply and exhibit his credentials,
would comport with the respect due to the Grand Lodge whose diploma he pre-
sented here, one of the most intelligent and respectable bodies of Masons in the
United States, is a question left for Harmony Lodge, and others adopting her
action, to answer, should the brother in question seek admission among them.
"2. The preamble continues as follows:— AND WHEREAS, we are informed
that the Lodge in Chicago over which the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge
presides, as Master, has now before it for action petitions from two or more
negroes.'
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 383
"To this we reply, that the Lodge over which the Grand Master was for a
season Master, never received a petition from any negro or negroes; but that
Apollo Lodge, No. 32, of this city, (whose records your committee have been per-
mitted to examine,) over which the M. W. G. Master may have occasionally pre-
sided, as over other Lodges, but of which he never was Master, did, at a regular
communication on the 2d of May last, \V. M. Wm. Stuart presiding, receive and
refer the petitions of two men, residents of this city, by name Johnson and
Davidson, by trade barbers, of mixed Anglo Saxon and African blood, though
the proportion of African blood is evidently small, reputed 'freeborn,' certainly
of good report, and one or both entitled to vote by the laws of this State. *
"On the 5th of May aforesaid, at a special meeting of said Lodge, a resolution
was adopted, instructing the committee on said petitions, not to report until
after the next meeting of the Grand Lodge in October then following; in order,
as was stated, previously to procure an expression of the Grand Lodge on the
subject.
"On the 21st of November following, at a regular communication of said
Lodge, W. M. Wm. Stuart presiding, as appears by the records, the committee
on said petitions reported favorably; but.it having been made known to the
Lodge, by its delegate to the Grand Lodge, that he had not obtained an expres-
sion from the Grand Lodge on the subject, a resolution was unanimously
adopted, in substance, allowing the petitioners to withdraw their petition.! This
was the final action of Apollo Lodge in relation to this matter; and however
anomalous and singular it may be deemed, evidently arose, in the opinion of your
committee, from a true Masonic desire to respect the feelings and scruples of a
portion of the members of the Fraternity, and to continue that harmony which
is the strength and beauty of our Institution. However this action may be
viewed, it is still the action of Apollo Lodge only, and from the responsibilities
in which it may involve her, your committee believe that she will not wish
to shrink.
"3. The preamble still continues as follows :— 'AND WHEREAS, we have learned
that the Most Worshipful Grand Master of the G. L. of Illinois is urgent in favor
of the admission of negroes into our ancient and honorable Fraternity.'
"Inasmuch as the conduct of the M. W. G. Master of the State only is herein
complained of, your committee, desirous of allowing him to speak for himself
on a matter which especially concerns him, addressed to him a note which,
with his answer, promptly communicated, is here inserted.
" ' CHICAGO, January 26th, 1816.
" ' Rev. W. F. Walker, M. W. G. M. of the Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois:
"'DEAR BROTHER: — The undersiened, a committee on behalf of the Masons,
members of the several Lodges in Chicago, to whom has been referred a com-
munication from Harmony Lodge No. 3, Jacksonville, Illinois, which communi-
cation by resolution of said Lodge, was directed to be sent also to you, respect-
*By the Rev. StfU., Ch. xxx. Div. iii, Sec. 16, page 154, Sec. 27 of Art. ii, of the
State constitution, is so interpreted as to form the basis for this assertion. —
Authority, his Ex. Gov. Ford.
fThe W. M. of Apollo Lodge desires that it should be noted that his Lodge was
not. at the time of this action, in possession of those instructions of the Grand
Lodge on the subject, with which it is inconsistent.
384 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
fully ask of you an answer to the 3d charge in the preamble of the said com-
munication, implicating you as being "urgent in favor of the admission of negroes
into our ancient and honorable Fraternity.'
" Fraternally yours,
" "M. L. KNAPP.
R. J. HAMILTON.
HART. L. STEWART,
.IOHN R. CASE,
WM. STUART,
C. LANSING,
J. V. Z. BLANEY.
WM. H. HERRICK,
GEORGE DAVIS."
"' CHICAGO, January 2(ith, 184G.
"' DEAR BRETARES : — The communication from Harmony Lodge No. 3, referred
to in your note of this morning, has been received by me, but 1 have given to it
no reply, for the reason that it invites none. I have supposed, that, in so far as
it concerns the several Lodges in this city, it would receive attention ; and that
when I should be asked for information inspecting the matters contained in it
touching myself, it would be quite time for me to furnish the same.
"'Your enquiry presents an opportunity for me to reply to the 3d charge,
which has regard to myself exclusively : what I should be bound to reply to the
others, is known to yourselves, for therein we are associated.
" ' I say, then, in brief, and without the fear of contradiction, that I have never,
either in any one of your Lodges, or in any other, either urged, recommended,
or said one word, "in favor of the admission of Negroes into our ancient and
honorable Fraternity.'' The charge regards overt acts to which no man or Ma-
son can testify concerning me. I deny them unqualifiedly, and so the truthful-
ness of the charge. That 1 have conversed wtth brethren some half dozen
times, perhaps, upon the great principles suggested by your question, is admit-
ted ; but such conversations have usually been, with the view, rather of eliciting,
than of expressing opinions. What are my opinions on the subject will doubt-
less, in due time, be made known, I certainly shall not shrink from any respon-
sibility that may be involved, either in expressing or maintaining them; but
their communication, at present, would beside your enquiry, and appears not
now to be called for.
"'Trusting that in the treatment of this whole matter, you will suffer the "law
of kindness" to prevail, and at no time to forget the moral lessons inculcated by
the level, the plumb, and the trowel,
'• I am, Dear Brethren,
With assurances of Fraternal regard,
Your friend and brother,
" W. F. WALKER,
"Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois.
"To M. L. Knapp. and others, \
Members of Committee." j
"In relation to this last matter, your committee would remark, that the
propriety or impropriety, the Jight or wrong, of admitting negroes into our
ancient and honorable Institution, has never been discussed, in any Lodge in
Chicago: nor do they feel themselves called upon to discuss the subject in this
communication: but in relation to a question of such magnitude — the time,
manner, and responsibilities of its discussion — they cordially adopt the views
expressed by our M. W. Grand Master, in his communication above given.
"Your committee have thus endeavored, candidly and masonically, to submit
their views on the several matters presented to their consideration ; but they
can not conclude without expressing their deep regret that any Lodge of Free
and Accepted Masons should have pursued the course adopted by Harmony
Lodge, and others following her action, of so departing from the rules of right,
established even by judicial tribunals, as to try and condemn a sister Lodge,
and brethren of the same great family, whose distinguishing tenets are brotherly
H1STOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 386
love and truth, on hear-say charges and exparte testimony ; without the ordinary
formality or courtesy of allowing the accused to appear and answer, before a
rendition of judgment.
"The unmasonic precipitancy of action, the spirit and bearing of Harmony
Lodge, in relation to this unfortunate matter, call forth our unqualified disap-
probation, and at the same time our brotherly regret. We love our Institution ;
we cherish its principles ; we admire, and would forever preserve, the beautiful
harmony of its proportions. We have no railing accusation to bring against any
portion of our great family. Wherever, under the broad canopy of Heaven, »
just and upright Mason is to be found, we would hail him as a brother, and
would receive from him a reciprocal regard. We would ever seek, in the ac-
cents of brotherly love, to be admonished of our errors, and, in such a spirit,
impart, as we would receive, that good counsel which most surely leads to ref-
ormation.
" Your committee, therefore, recommend the adoption of the following reso-
lution:
" Resolved, That this report be presented to the several Lodges in this city for
their action, and that, with a copy of such action appended, it be transmitted to
the M. W. Grand Master, to the several Lodges in the State, and to each Grand
Lodge in the United States, soliciting action and answer.
" All of which is most respectfully submitted.
"M. L. KNAPP,
R. J. HAMILTON,
HART. L. STEWART,
JOHN R. CASE,
WM. STUART,
C. LANSING,
J. V. Z. BLANEY,
WM. B. HERRICK,
GEORGE DAVIS,
Committee."
"The above report was, on motion, adopted.
"In this clear, distinct, unequivocal, and truly Masonic manner, [alluding to
the action had by the Chicago Lodges] have the Lodges in Chicago made answer
to the matters before referred to, by which the peace of our Lodges has of late
been disturbed. Wherever there is a heart attuned by Masonic principle, and
a head guided by Masonic wisdom, their 'circular' will be received as a memo-
rial of their being worthy sons of the mother they profess to 'love, cherish, ad-
mire, and would forever preserve in all the beauty of her divine proportions.'
In no case, it is believed, wherein passion has not usurped the sway, and the
understanding been rendered incapable of perceiving and calmly judging of
truth, can it be otherwise than satisfactory. The case, to form such an excep-
tion, we are bound to assume, is not to be found in our Masonic family,— a
family of brothers, at whose home altar are so often, so peculiarly, and so
forcibly, inculcated lessons concerning that 'charity' which 'suffereth long, and
is kind;' which 'beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, en-
dureth all things ; ' which ' is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil, rejoiceth in
the truth,' and 'never faileth;' and which is at once the cement and the glory
of our ' ancient Masonic Institution.'
—27
886 HISTOEY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"It is greatly to be regretted that a statement of facts, from the proper source,
was not applied for, before action resulting in public denunciation, calculated to
derogate from the character and standing of brethren, and to endanger the vital
interests of our Grand Lodge, was anywhere had with respect to what was com-
municated by the 'informer of his brethren ' to Harmony Lodge, though such
informant was 'a brother in whom all confidence can be placed.' This course
would have been Masonic, to say the least. Had it been observed, it is more
than probable, that the rising of many an improper temper would have been pre-
vented, the suffering of many a pang avoided. I certainly would have held my-
self ready to answer any and every enquiry, respectfully addressed, that might
have been proposed touching any or all of those matters. That I have neither
shrunk from nor delayed in so doing, when called upon, there are brethren who
can testify. I confess it would have gratified me not a little, had the same op-
portunity been allowed me in other quarters. The fraternal conduct of those
who have so addressed me, conduct so much in accordance with the tenets of
our ancient and honorable Order, merits my warmest thanks.
"Dissensions, difficulties and misunderstandings, the chiefest causes of most
of the jealousies and wrongs that exist, are to be regretted and eschewed by the
truly upright and honorable, — the lovers of the things that make for peace. But
as long as evil exists in the world,— as long as the turbulent passions of man are
unrestrained by the mild teachings of the Prince of Peace, — so long will they be
antagonists of each other,— so long will the war of the passions rage, and, in
many quarters, fearfully predominate. The Christian religion provides the first
great preventive of this unfortunate state of things; and every true Mason
knows that, next to this, our own beautiful Order supplies and enforces princi-
ples of love and forgiveness. Forbearance, kindness, forgiveness, morality,
love, and truth, are taught in every stage of Masonic progression. Each and
every symbol and ceremony in our Institution points out some lesson of mo-
rality,—a lesson which, if received and acted upon, tends to make us better and
more useful men, — to prevent jealousies, annihilate wrongs, and so to extend
' peace on earth,' and ' good will ' amongst men.
"One of those lessons, and that of by no means secondary importance— a les-
son, in effect imparted to each Master Mason under circumstances of almost
fearful impressiveness — regards the duty of every brother in the mystic tie to
remind every other in the most friendly manner of his errors, and aid his refor-
mation; to avoid all slander, malice, unjust resentment, and talking disrespect-
fully of a brother's person or performance, by which the character of a brother may
be injured, his feelings wounded, or the most excellent tenets of our Order be
violated, or in any degree interrupted in their exercise ; to suffer none to spread
unjust reproaches orcalumnies against a brother behind his back, nor to injure
him in his fortune, occupation, or character; but defend a brother, giving him
due and timely notice of any injury wherewith he may be threatened, or of any
charges that may be abroad affecting him, that he may ward off danger. With
all his duties vividly before him, it is impossible that a true Mason can ma-
terially err. Whether the brethren, who, with such severity as has been, in
many cases, evinced, have animadverted upon the Lodges in Chicago, in con-
nection with myself, have had all their duties distinctly in recollection, when
making such expressions, they only know and can say.
"If under some sudden and temporary excitement, without due reflection,
they have wronged brethren, it is hoped that the Masonic temper has been, ere
this, recovered, and that Masonic principle and feelings will soon so prevail as
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 387
to prompt them to endeavor, in some degree, to repair the injustice done, by
furnishing oil for the wounds they may have opened.
"Since the publication of the 'circular of the Lodges in Chicago,' a letter
evidently dictated by a spirit of impartial justice, has been received by me from
a brother, propounding questions, 'under and by virtue of his Lodge,' which,
' an a Lodge,' was ' not prepared to act' on the Harmony circular, ' without first
having a statement of facts from me,' some of which extend to matters in the
above connection not before touched upon, — having regard to opinions as well as
acts. Those questions are as follows :
" ' Do you believe a negro can be admitted into our Order? If he can, do you
believe it good policy to admit one? And lastly, would you be willing to see a
negro admitted into a Lodge, under this Grand Lodge, or in any other than a
" B'.ack Lodge." '
" The answer to these questions having been made officially, I have no hesita-
tion in here inserting it, as, in connection with the circular of the Lodges in
Chicago, it is believed to cover this entire subject, both as to facts and opinions
It was, in substance, as follows :
" 1. Did I not ' believe that a negro can be admitted into our Order,' I should
fail to give credit to what my own eyes have witnessed, within the jurisdiction
of another Grand Lodge, to what is testified by brethren, ' in whom all confidence
can be placed,' respecting what has been done elsewhere in the United States, to
what we know concerning the Fraternity in Africa, in India, in Hayti, in Eng-
land, and, wherever, indeed, our ' universal language ' is spoken — our Institution
established.
" 2. That what is thus possible in many countries, and in many parts of our
own country, and may fairly be claimed as a universal right, in view of the
fundamentally catholic character of the Masonic Institutson, it would be ' good
policy,' expedient, in other words to practice here, I do not 'believe.' I am most
decidedly of the opinion, that ' no Lodge has the right to introduce within its
walls any applicant who may be obnoxious to any one of its members,' or to any
Mason associated with it under the same Masonic government. The principle
thus asserted is broad, but, narrowed in anywise, it would conflict with much
that is most tender and sacred in ' our Masonic Institution.' That it is of no
after adoption by me, will appear by a reference to pages 37 and 38 of the pre-
ceding ' proceedings,' where it is asserted and expanded at some length.
"3. We have no 'Black Lodge' within our jurisdiction; nor would I, under
present circumstances, willingly see, certainly would not constitute, one.
" Whether one who is truly a worthy brother shall be admitted into a particu-
lar Lodge, in union with this Grand Lodge, irrespective of every thing save his
'internal qualifications' to 'recommend' him, is for the Lodge at whose door
such brother may knock for admission, to determine.* The Lodges in Chicago
have uniformly decided and acted for themselves in this regard ; and, in a
given case, have submitted their decision and action touching the same.
"This Grand Lodge, at its annual communication in 1843, through 'Bro. War-
ren, from the Committee on Foreign Communications,' asserted as a fact, how^
ever, ' THAT HE WHO is IN POSSESSION OP THAT UNIVERSEL LANGUAGE, is HAILED AND EM-
BRACED AS A BROTHER, — WHETHER WANDERING THROUGH THE GREEK FORESTS OF AMERICA,
* "As it regards the course observed in this respect by the Chapter or Encamp-
ment in Chicago, it is assumed that the ' Blue Lodges ' have not the right
officially to enquire."
388 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
OVER THE BURNING SANDS OP PALESTINE, OR WENDING HIS WAY ALONG THE GLOOMY BANKS
OF THE GANGES;' and informed the Fraternity, ' ivith pride and pleasure, ' that ' the
star of Masonry is tending upward and onward, bright and brightening, not only over
this Union, BUT THROUGHOUT THE HABITABLE GLOBE.*
"How far this just, eloquent, and truly Masonic instruction has had influence
with the Lodges in Chicago, they have not been pleased to inform us. It was
probably thought that this might better be left to be inferred from the known
Masonic character of those who compose them.
"•I will take leave of this subject, in the language of a former able Grand Master
of this Grand Lodge, somewhat accommodated :
'"Knowing, my brethren, somewhat of Masonry, and acquainted as I am with
many of you, I feel it to be altogether unnecessary further to remind you, in this
connection, of those principles of our Order so essential to be observed to en-
sure its well being. Masons pre-eminently love order and harmony ; and I
doubt not you will meet the subject, now so fully before you, with a prevailing
disposition, and a steady determination in all you shall say or do, to have regard
to the excellent tenets of our Institution; "to love as brethren ; to be kindly
affectioned one toward another ; in honor, preferring one another." Union is
the very soul of our associated being; selfishness is at war, and incompatible,
with the genius and spirit of Masonry. Ambition and rivalry we know not;
brotherly love and affection "unite us into one sacred band, or society of friends
and brothers, among whom no contention should ever exist, but that noble con-
tention, or rather emulation, of who best can work, or best agree." Let us ex-
emplify in our conduct these interesting traits of Masonry; and having now a
mutually right understanding in all things, let us, with one mind, and one spirit,
strive together for the prosperity of our Order.
"'BEHOLD, HOW GOOD AND HOW PLEASANT IT IS FOR BRETHREN TO DWELL TOGETHER IN
UNITY ! ' "
The Grand Lodge took the following action at the session of 1846 :
" REPORT.
" To the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the State of
Illinois ;
" The special committee appointed to take under consideration and report
upon so much of our Most Worshipful Grand Master's report to the Grand
Lodge as relates to the Harmony Lodge Circular, in relation to certain proceed-
ings at Chicago, beg leave to submit the following :
"Your committee have investigated the subject with a due regard to the
interests of those concerned, and the well-being of the Institution in our State.
Your committee take great pleasure in bearing witness to the deep interest
which has been manifested by the Most Worshipful Grand Master Walker,
during the past year. His industry, zeal, and energies, so faithfully applied for
the advancement of our excellent Fraternity, deserves, and no doubt will receive,
the approbation of the brotherhood, and serve as a bright example to excite our
emulation.
" After scrutinizing closely the charges preferred by Harmony Lodge No. 3,
at Jacksonville, and the replication of Grand Master Walker, as also the circular
of the Chicago Lodges, your committee can not find that anything in a tangible
form rests against our M. W. Grand Master, so as either to subject him to cen-
* " Whether this comprehends ' all kindreds ' is left for inference !"
HISTOEY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 389
sure or discipline ; and it gives us great pleasure that the presiding officer of
our Institution in this State stands, as such, unconnected with measures, the
naming of which alone excites the distrust and disapprobation of so large a
portion of the Brotherhood. Your committee can not dismiss so much of this
matter as particularly pertains to Grand Master Walker, without declaring their
unqualified disapprobation of the letter and spirit of his remarks in his report
to the M. W. Grand Lodge of Illinois, in relation to. Harmony Lodge and her
train.
"The action of a large majority, if not all the Lodges, upon the celebrated
Harmony Circular, was conditional, stating generally that if the Grand Master
and the Chicago Lodges stood in the relations represented, then farther meas-
ures would be pursued. This was the declaration of Harmony Lodge in her
circular, as set forth in the printed proceedings of this Grand Lodge, (pages
107 and 108.)
" Harmony Lodge says nothing, however, as is predicted by the W. G. Master,
of disrupting the Grand Lodge, but simply states that she will, under certain
circumstances, withdraw from her jurisdiction. Your committee believe that
the Grand Lodge is too well satisfied of the evil of the innovation, its disas-
trous consequences to the peace and happiness of the Brotherhood in these
United States, to be so divided in sentiment as to endanger its perpetuity.
" The Grand Master complains that the indignities which he has suffered still
stand unacknowledged and unatoued for. It is probable that most of those
Lodges who took action in the matter, concluded, after receiving the Grand
Master's circular, to wait until the G. A. Convocation, expecting to see the Grand
Master in his place, and render unto him according to the facts, after an investi-
gation should be had by the Grand Lodge.
" Your committee can not but believe that whatever action has been had by
subordinate Lodges, it was actuated by a desire to preserve the peace, happiness,
and prosperity of the Fraternity, as a whole. It is believed that Grand Master
Walker is entirely too sensitive on the subject, and has thus been led to give
too keen an edge to his remarks in the report to the Grand Lodge. The M. W.
Grand Master had had too recently an evidence of the estimation in which he
was held by the Lodges generally, in elevating him to the chair of Grand Mas-
ter of the Grand Lodge, to authorize the inuendoes in his report. Your com-
mittee beg leave to offer the following resolution :
"Resolved, That this Grand Lodge have the utmost confidence in the Rev.
W. F. Walker, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, believing him a true
brother at heart, atone actuated by a desire to advance the prosperity of the
Craft.
"Your committee beg leave to state that the Chicago Lodges, as appears from
their own circular, as set forth in the printed proceedings of the Grand Lodge
(pages 108, 109, and 110), have occupied a very unwarrantable position, viz.: In
admitting negroes or mulattoes into any of the rights and immunities of Masonry,
and in receiving petitions from reputed negroes for admission; and, therefore,
although Harmony Lodge was misinformed in relation to the M. W. Grand
Master (so far as we have data to found our conclusions upon), yet it appears
from the circular from the Chicago Lodges, that Harmony Lodge did not ma-
terially err in relation to the aforesaid Chicago Lodges. How the Chicago Lodges
consider themselves free from unqualified censure, after having made a report
acknowledging the admission of a negro as a 'visitor,' and after having received
a petition for membership from a negro, and that petition favorably reported on
by a committee of the Lodge, your committee are at a loss to determine. It is
390 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
evident, as appears from the report of the committee of the Chicago Lodges, as
set forth in the printed proceedings of the Grand Lodge (on page 109), that
Apollo Lodge would have admitted a negro to membership, but for the want of
an expression favorable thereto by the Grand Lodge of Illinois — an expression
which your committee believe never could have been obtained.
" In the report of the committee of the Chicago Lodges (see proceedings G. I .
page 109), the committee seem to argue strongly in favor of the rights of negroes
to admission, basing their views upon the oft-repeated declaration, that whoever
is in possession of our universal language is entitled to admission into our halls
throughout the habitable globe. Although at first view it would seem that it
was the design of Masonry to admit all who were morally worthy from among
every nation and tongue under heaven, yet if we reflect closely, we will discover
that many objections interpose. 1st. Our paramount obligations to the State,
doing nothing in our fraternal capacity that would tend to create social discord
and disrupt the political relations of the confederate States; aware as we must
be that certain institutions are recognized in one portion of our political Union
which are not in others ; knowing also that it is our duty as good Masons, to ad-
vance the peace and happiness of the government under which we live, which,
if we do not, brings censure, merited censure, upon our time-honored Institu-
tion.
"The second objection, which has a paramount claim, is, that negroes, from
the position they hold among us, resulting from the law of custom, as well as from
legislative enactments, are disqualified. Their rtlatioii is such that the most
favored among them in our land can not enter the inner court and there take
upon them the high responsibilities of our Institution, with a view of mutual
reciprocity in the discharge of all our obligations. The act presupposes the
equality in every respect of the contracting parties. It does not presume that
we should place ourselves in a position to discharge the imperious duties of our
Craft towards those who are socially and civilly disqualified to fulfill their part
of the obligation. The Author of all has placed a distinguishing mark upon
them, clearly indicating that there was a distinctiveness to be kept up; audit
is repulsive to the finest feelings of the heart to think that between them and us
there can be a mutual reciprocity of all social privileges. And why then intro-
duce them into our inner temple, where the closest connections are inculcated
and solemnized ? Other objections might be urged, but your committee deem
the above hints sufficient. Your committee will not say that the time will never
come when the negro may with safety be admitted to our rights ; but the signs
of the times do not indicate that the period has yet arrived, and it would be
worse than folly to anticipate the period.
"In view of the above sentiments, your committee would offer the following
resolution:
" Resolved, That this Grand Lodge is unqualifiedly opposed to the admission
of negroes or mulattoes into Lodges under her jurisdiction.
" C. G. Y. TAYLOR, 1
WM. MITCHELL, Y Committee.
DANIEL McJNElL-j
"On motion, the report was accepted, and the resolution unanimously
adopted."
The present sections 81 and 82 were adopted in 1852, as standing reso-
lution No. 44.
CHAPTER XXI.
1847.
GRAND LODGE.
The Grand Lodge of Illinois convened in eighth annual grand com-
munication, at Quincy, on Monday, October 4, 1847.
" PRESENT :
" NELSON D. MORSE, M. W. G. M.
ABRAHAM JONAS, R. W. D. G. M., p. f., and P. G. M.
JOHN R. CRANDALL, R. W. Sr. Gr. Warden.
ADAM BREWER, R. W. Jr. Gr. Warden.
JAMES L. ANDERSON, R. W. Gr. Treae.
LEV I LUSK, R. W. Gr. Sec., and P. G. M.
Rev. CHARLES HOWARD, R. W. Gr. Chap., j>. t.
CARDING JACKSON, R. W. Gr. Lecturer.
A. C. DICKSON, W. Sr. Gr. Deacon.
MATTHIAS TAYLOR, W. Jr. Gr. Deacon.
HARRISON DILLS, W. Gr. Steward.
PETER SWEAT, W. Gr. Pursuivant.
CHAPiN ALLEN, Gr. Tyler.
" REPRESENTATIVES.
"O. C. Skinner, proxy, W. M., Bolley, No. 1.
John Crockett, S. W., " "
Chapin Allen, J. W., " "
W. W. Happy, W. M., Harmony, No. 3.
W. C. Sweet, S. W.,
Wm. N. Ross, J. W.,
James L. Anderson, W. M., Rushville, No. 9.
Levi Lusk, proxy. J. W., " "
Thos. J. Wade, W. M., St. John's, No. 13.
E. R. Roe, S. W.. Warren, No. 14.
Wm. Mitchell, W. M., Peoria, No. 15.
*A. C. Dickson, W. M», Temperance, No. 10.
* Should have read " proxy for W. M."
392 HISTOKY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS.
" Matthias Taylor, W. M., LaFayette, No. 18.
Charles Howard, W. M., Franklin, No. 25.
N. D. Morse, W. M., Hiram, No. 26.
Wm. McMurtry, S. W., " "
J. C. Ketcham, 8. W.. Piasa, No. 27.
John R. Crandall, proxy, W. M., Pekin, No. 29.
Adam Brewer, W. M., Morning Star, No. 30.
.1. C. Keteham, proxy. W. M., Mt. Vernon, No. 31.
Geo. Wike, W. M., Barry, No. 34.
John P. Grubb, S. W.,
N. D. Morse, proxy, W. M., Monmouth, No. 37.
Carding Jackson, proxy, Vf. M., Olive Branch, No. 38.
C. Steinagle, W. M., Herman, No. 39.
D. Hauser, S. W.,
C. Ruoff, J. W.,
" PAST MASTERS :
" Peter Sweat, Samuel H. Davis, No. 15 ; J. H. Holton, No. 39.
" VISITORS :
"L. Prentice, James Millard, J. A. Ralston, Eli H. Williams, Louis Evans, of
No. 1; Andrew LeCroix, No. 9; David Wike, No. 34; Daniel Stahl, No. 39; D. W.
Pressett, Aurora, No. 48; J. M. Irvin, Jerusalem, No. 19.
These two latter Lodges were probably under the jurisdiction of Mis-
souri.
The Grand Lodge having been opened in ample form, and -the reading
of the minutes of the last annual communication dispensed with, the
Grand Master delivered the following address :
"BRETHREN: — I am not prepared to give you any information of interest upon
the prospects of our ancient Institution abroad, but I am prepared to report that
the Lodges subordinate to this Grand Lodge are prosperous and flourishing.
"An abstract of what I have done as Grand Master is here furnished, so far as
the same is deemed of sufficient importance to engage the attention of the Grand
Lodge. Minor acts and decisions, having respect to particular Lodges or local
interests, it is believed to be unnecessary here to report.
"In March last I appointed Bro. O. C. Skinner, of Bodley Lodge No. 1, my
proxy to attend the Grand Lodge of Missouri, to receive such propositions as
said Grand Lodge should see proper to submit to this Grand Lodge on the
subject of education, and proposing to take an interest in the Masonic College;
and his report I herewith submit, marked A.
"In May last I received the charter of Warsaw Lodge No. 21, together with
the proceedings of a meeting of said Lodge, held May 9th, for the purpose of
taking into consideration the propriety of surrendering their charter, which I
here submit, marked B.
"On the 15th of August last I received a petition from George C. Lanphere
and six other brethren, belonging to a company of mounted volunteers for the
war in Mexico, praying for a dispensation empowering them to work as a Lodge.
The annual communication being so near at hand, I did not think proper to
grant them a dispensation. The petition I herewith submit, marked C.
"Since the last annual communication of the Grand Lodge, I have granted
dispensations as follows :
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 393
"let. To Bro. John Foster as Master, Bro. Elijah Depew as Senior Warden,
Bro. Andrew Johnston as Junior Warden, and the requisite additional brethren,
to form and open a Lodge in Bloomington, McLean county, by the name o
Bloomington Lodge.
"2d. To Bro. George Hawpe as Master, Bro. Jas. S. Smith as Senior Warden,
Bro. Geo. W. Howell as Junior Warden, and the requisite additional brethren, to
form and open a Lodge in North Caledonia, Pulaski county, by the name of
Caledonia Lodge.
"3d. To Bro. Nathan Phillips as Master, Bro. Joshua Ward as Senior Warden,
Bro. Amos Hill as Junior Warden, and the requisite additional brethren, to form
and open a Lodge at Griggsville, Pike county, by the name of Griggsville Lodge.
"4th. To Bro. Stephen Cady as Master, Bro. AVm. K. Talbot as Senior Warden,
Bro. Roderick R. Stewart as Junior Warden, and the requisite additional breth-
ren, to form and open a Lodge in Cambridge, Henry county, by the name of
Cambridge Lodge.
"5th. To Bro. George Adams as Master, Bro. Jno. Bigler as Senior Warden,
Bro. Thomas I. Starr as Junior Warden, and the requisite additional brethren, to
form and open a Lodge in Mt. Sterling, Brown county, by the name of Hardin
Lodge.
"6th. To Bro. Wm. W. Bennett as Master, Bro. Thomas S. Roe as Senior Warden,
Bro. Gabriel S. Jones as Junior Warden, and the requisite additional brethren,
to form and open a Lodge in Nashville, Washington county, by the name of
Hardin Lodge.
"7th. To Bro. John F. Gray as Master, Bro. Luke Coon as Senior Warden,
Bro. Calvin Serl as Junior Warden, and the requisite additional brethren, to
form and open a Lodge in Woodstock, McHenry county, by the name of St.
John's Lodge.
"NELSON D. MORSE."
PAPERS ACCOMPANYING THE ABOVE.
"[A.]
"To the Most Worshipful Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Illinois:
" In compliance with your appointment hereto annexed, I attended the M. W.
Grand Lodge of Missouri, held at St. Louis, on the 16th of March last, an your
proxy, in writing presented a request that said Grand Lodge should make such
propositions through me to the Grand Lodge of Illinois, as they should deem
proper, relative to the Grand Lodge of Illinois acquiring by purchase an interest
in the Masonic College of Missouri, and also requesting any communication said
<Jraod Lodge might see fit to make on the subject of education. Shortly after
presenting my communication, I deemed it proper to withdraw the same until
the question then pending of the final location of said college should be disposed
of, fearing that an influence might be produced on that question not intended
on my part. The Grand Lodge of Missouri located said Lodge at Lexington.
I then, by the request of said Grand Lodge, presented the following communica-
tion :
" ' To the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Missouri :
"'The undersigned congratulates your Most Worshipful Grand Lodge on the
final and happy location of the Masonic College of Missouri, and states that I'rom
difficulties appearing to him quite insuperable, and almost necessarily arising
out of a "joint interest in and control over" the said college by two Grand
Lodges of different States, he deems it inexpedient further to trouble your M. W.
Grand Lodge on that subject. At the same time he feels free to state that a deep
interest is felt among the Fraternity of Illinois in the prosperity of the college, and
a desire on their part to aid in making it an honor to Masonry, and useful to the
country. He also states that the Grand Loege of Illinois and the Fraternity
desire to co-operate with their brethren of Missouri in any practicable measures
consistent with the spirit of Masonry, and tendjng to the public good. He there-
28
394 HISTOKT OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
fore requests such action as your M. W. Grand Lodge may deem proper to take
on the subject of establishing a Masonic and Educational Journal, jointly by the
Grand Lodges of Missouri and Illinois. He also suggests that should your Most
Worshipful Grand Lodge see fit to contribute by way of subscription to sur-h
journal, the Grand Lodge of Illinois would, in his opinion, provide means to
establish the same at her next annual communication. He therefore tnkes the
liberty of presenting the following resolution for such action as your M. W.
Grand Lodge may take on the same, at the same time requesting any other
action your M. W. Grand Lodge may feel disposed to take, relating to the subject
matter of said resolution on the subject of education:
"'Resolved, That should the Grand Lodge of Illinois appropriate the sum of one
thousand dollars in money to the establishment and support of a weekly,
monthly, or semi-monthly Masonic and Educational Journal, which shall be free
to Masonic intelligence from the Grand Lodge of Missouri and the brethren
members of the several Lodges of Missouri, and which shall be located and pub-
lished at some point on the Mississippi river, in the State of Illinois, and which
shall be devoted, 1st, to Masonic intelligence: 2d, to information and communi-
cations concerning the Masonic College of Missouri; 3d, to general intelligence
and literature; and 4thly, and principally, to the subject of common schools and
common school education, and to the dissemination of intelligence, knowledge,
and information, the tendency and object of which shall be the establishment of
a uniform and permanent system of common school education in the Western
States by the people and several State governments thereof — said journal to be
issued at a price not exceeding $2 per annum; that in such case, the Grand
Lodge of Missouri will take copies of the same for one year; half of said sub-
scription the said Grand Lodge will pay to the order of the Grand Lodge of
Illinois, on the appearance of the first number of such journal, and the balance
in six months thereafter; said copies to be subject to the order of the Grand
Lodge of Missouri, and to be distributed, sent, and disposed of in such manner
as said Grand Lodge of Missouri shall direct.
•"Fraternally, O. C. SKINNER,
"'Proxy for the M. W. Grand Master of the M. W. Grand Lodge of Illinois.''
"The time of the Grand Lodge of Missouri being necessarily much consumed
by the business of the college, little could be done in getting the business of the
above resolution and communication finally acted upon. The plan set forth in
said resolution seems to me practicable, and an enterprise worthy of our Institu-
tion and the age we live in. The action of the Grand Lodge of Missouri on the
subject here follows :
" GRAND LODGE OF MISSOURI.
" Extract from proceedings — Saturday, March 20, A. D. 1SU7, A. L. 5SU7.
" Bro. Broadhead, from the select committee, reported :
" ' To the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of the State of Missouri:
'"The committee to whom was referred the communication of Bro. O. C.
Shinner, proxy for the M. W. Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, beg
leave to subm'it the following report:
'"There is no subject, perhaps, which should more cordially recommend itself
to the consideration of the Grand Lodge of Missouri than that which is pre-
sented by the communication under consideration.
•"We have already shown to the world by the steps which we have taken
towards the establishment of a Masonic College, that we are alive to the cause of
education, and devoted to the spread of general literature. Indeed, it were
strange, should we, who have ever held the diffusion of light and the investiga-
tion of truth to be amongst the highest aims of our Institution, be found want-
ing in any efforts within our power which are calculated to promote the cause
of general education.
•"We rejoice to see that the Masonic Fraternity throughout the world is with
us on this important subject, and more particularly do we rejoice that the
brethren of our sister State of Illinois have shown, through the Grand Master,
and his most worthy proxy now present, disposition to give their influence and
their aid to so noble an undertaking.
"'Owing, however, to the amount of business now pressing upon the consid-
eration of this Grand Lodge, and the limited time which has been allotted us
for the consideration of the important subject which has been referred to us,
your committee deem it inexpedient to recommend any definite action thereon,
at the present communication of the Grand Lodge, but would respectfully sub-
mit the following resolution apd recommend its adoption :
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 395
" 'Resolved, That the communication of our highly esteemed Bro. O. C. Skin-
ner, proxy for the M. W. Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, be re-
commended to the considerate attention of the Grand Lodge of Missouri, at its
next October communication.
'"The report and resolution unanimously adopted:
" ' / certify the foregoing a true extract, &c.
"'Attest, '"FREDERICK L. BILLON,
Grand Secretary.'
" I feel enabled further to state that the M. W. Grand Lodge and brethren of
Missouri in attendance, exhibited much interest in the plan, and entire confi-
dence in its success. And I would recommend that such measures be taken as
may be necessary to have the plan, or someting similar, adopted at our October
communication.
" Fraternally, &c., yours,
" O. C. SKINNER.
"A. L. 581,7, April 8, 18U7."
" [B.]
" M. W. GRAND MASTER — Sir: Warsaw Lodge No. 21 was convened on the 9th
inst., to take into consideration the propriety of giving up their charter for the
present. Bro. C. Hay offered the following, which was adopted :
'• Resolved, That as the members of Warsaw Lodge No. 21 have no suitable
room to work in, it is expedient that they surrender their charter to the M. W.
Grand Master until they can procure a suitable room.
"Bro. A. J. Chittenden offered the following resolution, which was adopted :
" Resolved, That the Secretary of this Lodge be directed to inclose the char-
ter, with the above resolutions, to the M. W. Grand Master of the State of Illi-
nois.
" Inclosed you will find our charter. Circumstances beyond the control of
the Lodge make it their duty to suspend work for the present.
" Fraternally,
"E. F. CHITTENDEN,
Secretary."
" [C.]
" To the Most Worshipful Grand Master of the State of Illinois :
-' Your petitioners, George C. Lanphere, George W. Palmer, John H. Mitchell,
Daniel T. Denman, Wyatt B. Stapp, Ezekiel Kent, and James Townsley, would
respectfully represent that they are all Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons, and
bolong to a company of mounted volunteers received into the service of the
United States, and known as company B ; that they are about to depart for Vera
Cruz, in Mexico, to operate against the enemy there ; that they are desirous of
being authorized by dispensation to work under the authority of the Grand
Lodge, and do respectfully recommend George C. Lanphere to he Worshipful
Master, George W. Palmer to be Senior Warden, and John H. Mitchell to be
Junior Warden ; and they will, as in duty bound, ever pray, <fcc.
"GEORGE C. LANPHERE,
GEORGE W. PALMER,
JOHN H. MITCHELL,
EZEKIEL KENT, Jr.,
D. T. DENMAN,
WYATT B. STAPP,
JAMES TOWNSLEY.
" [ Vouched for and recommended by Hyram Lodge No. %6.\ "
The address and accompanying papers were referred to Breth. Jonas
(39), Davis (15), and Taylor (18).
The following committees were appointed :
On Returns and Work] of Chartered Lodges. — Breth. McMurtry (26),
Happy (3), and Roe (14).
On. Returns and Work of Lodges Under Dispensation. — Breth. Crandall,
Taylor (18), and Anderson (9).
396 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
On Petitions and Grievances. — Breth. Davis (15), Brewer (30), and Dills
(1).
On Finance and Accounts. — Breth. Ketcham (27), Mitchell (15), and
Howard (25).
To Examine Visiting Brethren. — Breth. Dickson (3), and Jackson (18).
Bro. Jonas offered the following resolutions :
"The Grand Lodge of Illinois learn with affliction the death, at Peoria, of Bro.
John Barney, late R. W. Grand Lecturer, and take this most fitting occasion to
express their grief for his irreparable loss, and the esteem in which his character,
both as a man and Mason, was held by the Fraternity.
"Resolved, That the members of this Grand Lodge during the present commu-
nication, as a token of respect for the memory of our late departed and venerated
brother, will wear crape on their left arms.
"Resolved, That the Grand Secretary be requested to forward a copy of the
above to the widow of our deceased brother.
"Resolved, That the M. W. Grand Master appoint a committee to ascertain, if
possible, the pecuniary condition of Mrs. Barney, and report if she is in need of
the assistance of this Grand Lodge."
Bro. Davis offered the following as an addition to the foregoing :
"And that the same committee also inquire into and ascertain the expenses
incurred during the sickness and death of Bro. Barney, while at Peoria."
Which was accepted by the original mover; whereupon the resolutions
were unanimously adopted, and Breth. Jackson, Sweat, and Taylor
appointed the committee.
The Grand Master was instructed to carry out the provisions and ar-
rangements made by the Grand Stewards, in relation to a procession, the
installation, and an oration on Wednesday.
The following, on motion of Bro. Crandall, was adopted :
"Resolved, That it is the sense of this Grand Lodge that we are deficient in rep-
presentatives from subordinate Lodges, and that too great a number of those
represented are by proxy.
"Resolved, That to secure the very desirable object of a full representation from
subordinate Lodges, such representation should be from members of such
subordinate Lodges themselves; in view thereof, the attention of the Committee
to Revise the Constitution be called in that direction, and they be instructed to
make provisions for raising a fund, to be denominated the representative fund."
Bro. McMurtry moved to amend the constitution so as to authorize the
appointment of District Deputy Grand Masters, after which the Grand
Lodge called off until 2 o'clock P. M.
MONDAY AFTERNOON, Oct. 4, 1847.
The Grand Lodge was called to labor. Present : as in the morning.
The committee appointed to settle with the late Grand Secretary (Wm.
B. Warren), reported his accounts correct.
On motion of Bro. Brewer, Breth. Brewer, Mitchell, and Davis were
appointed to inquire into the condition of Bro. Halfpenny, an indigent
Mason, residing at Canton.
The Committee on Correspondence reported as follows :
HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 397
1 ' To the Most Worshipful Orand Lodge of the State of Illinois :
" The Committee on Foreign Correspondence respectfully report that, in con-
sequence of the Committee on Correspondence failing to make report to the last
annual communication of this Grand Lodge, for want of time, they find on the
Hies of the Grand Secretary, the journals and proceedings of most of the Grand
Lodges in the United States for two consecutive years, of which the following is
alist: Missouri, Maine, Virginia, Indiana, Mississippi, Ohio, Maryland, Florida,
Louisiana, Michigan, Arkansas, Alabama, Wisconsin, New York, Connecticut,
New Hampshire, Texas, North Carolina, South Carolina, Iowa, District of Colum-
bia, Rhode Island, Kentucky, Tennessee, Vermont, Massachusetts, and Penn-
sylvania, with many pamphlets, circulars, and letters, some of which will be
noticed in another part of this report.
"The journals and proceedings of the various Grand Lodges are generally
marked with great ability, and manifest a zeal for the ancient landmarks and
order of our beloved and time-honored Institution, commensurate with the
cause in which we are engaged.
" For your committee to say that they have perused the history of the acts
and doings of the several Grand Lodges in correspondence with this Grand
Lodge with pride and satisfaction, is but a meager tribute.
" From the cursory glance your committee have been able to take at the mass
of matter before them, they are highly gratified to see that the Craft are flour-
ishing to an almost unparalleled degree, throughout the length and breadth of
the land. From every point of the compass the sound of the gavel is rever-
berated in grateful tones, the fires upon our ancient altars burn brightly, and
temples dedicated to brotherly love, relief, and truth are being erected all over
our wide-extended country. Brethren whose heads are silvered with the frosts
of many winters, and who, from the force of circumstances, were compelled for
a season to lay by their implements and spend the vigor of life (Masonically) in
inactivity, are knocking off the rust, resuming their working tools, and coming
up to our temples with alacrity and delight; while the young, stimulated by
their example, are anxiously seeking admittance into our ancient and honorable
Institution.
"The march of ancient Freemasonry is onward, and apparently with increas-
ing strength and beauty, and bids fair not to be stayed in its course until time
shall be merged in the vast ocean of eternity. But it was not to dilate upon the
prosperity of Freemasonry that your committee were appointed; they will
therefore be excused if they drop this subject and return to the duty assigned
them.
" Your committee are much gratified to see that the practice of opening Grand
Lodges with an address or message from the presiding officer, is becoming gene-
ral, and promises greatly to enhance the interest of the Craft and beautify and
adorn the work. Some shrink from this duty, and suppose that the subject of
Freemasonry has been so often discussed that nothing new can be said ; but
the perusal of the numerous addresses of Grand Masters which have been be-
fore your committee, indicate that there are gems yet in the mine which will
compare in beauty and brilliancy with any that have been brought out.
" In the discharge of the duty assigned to your committee, they desire equally
to avoid what is aptly denominated the "stereotyped edition" of reports, and
that other extreme, of extending their report to an immoderate length, by in-
serting many and long extracts from orations, addresses, and letters from dis-
398 HISTOKY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS.
tinguished brethren, unless they can be applied immediately to the work of
our own Grand Lodge. Many excellent, very excellent things have been said
and written which your committee would be gratified to see placed in the hands
of every brother and on the desk of every Lodge; but this your committee
conceive would be more properly and effectually done, if necessary, by a special
committee, and published in an appendix to the proceedings of this Grand
Lodge, than to be interspersed in a report of this kind.
"Your committee have thought that they could not better fulfill the duties
assigned them than to give a synopsis from the proceedings of each Grand
Lodge, and bring to the notice of this Grand Lodge the measures agitated for
perpetuating the ancient landmarks of our Order, with such matters as have
been suggested or acted upon for the promotion of any laudable or praiseworthy
design. They therefore take up the journal of each Grand Lodge in the order
before named.
" MISSOURI.
"Freemasonry is flourishing in this jurisdiction. We have the proceedings
of the Grand Lodge at its annual communications in October, 1845 and 1846, anil
an adjourned communication in March, 1847, at which time thirty-three Lodges
were represented. The business has been generally of a local character. At
each annual communication the Grand Master presented a message, recom-
mending such measures as he deemed called for the action of the Grand Lodge.
The Committee on Correspondence made a report against the representative
system, as not productive of sufficient good to compensate for the expense ; and
also against a General Grand Lodge, because that Grand Lodge on prior occa-
sions had deemed it unnecessary and inexpedient.
" Your committee are gratified to learn that this Grand Lodge has begun the
work of eradicating the innovations upon our ancient landmarks from her con-
stitution, by repealing the clause requiring the degree of P. M. to be conferred
upon Wardens.
"The following resolution was adopted in March, 1847:
" 'Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed, whose duty it shall be to
collect from the standard works of the Order, or otherwise, such information as
will enable them clearly to define what are the " ancient constitutions," and what
the " ancient usages " of the Order, and report at the next meeting of this Grand
Lodge.'
"Another resolution was adopted authorizing the Grand Secretary to procure
certain works to enable the committee to discharge the duty. Your committee
deem this an example worthy of imitation. At the communication in 1846, this
Grand Lodge adopted the following resolution :
"'Resolved, That so much of the constitution of the Grand Lodge of Louisiana
as relates to the organization of said Grand Lodge, and the 4th article of said
constitution, are in the opinion of this Grand Lodge, inconsistent with, and ut-
terly subversive of, the principles and constitutions of Ancient York Masonry.'
"Your committee deem it unnecessary to copy that clause which relates to
the organization of the Grand Lodge of Louisiana. It so amended the constitu-
tion of the Grand Lodge of Louisiana, ' as to have it constituted after three rites,
viz.: the Ancient Rite of York, the Scotch Rite Ancient and Accepted, and the
French, or Modern Rite.' That was done. And since that time the Most Illus-
trious Grand Lodge of Louisiana enjoys alone the right of legislating and regu-
lating the symbolic Masonry in Louisiana. With these rights your committee
are wholly unacquainted, and therefore make no comments. The said part of
HISTORY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS. 399
the constitution and the 4th article were ordered to be published. The 4th
article is in these words :
'"ART. 4. The sons of Masons, when presented by their father or tutor, are
dispensed with the condition concerning the age, and may be received when
they are eighteen years old. But it is well understood that they can not be
received Master Masons before they have attained their twenty-first year. No
dispensation contrary to this article shall be granted.'"
"In respect to the 4th article, your committee concur in the opinion expressed
by the Grand Lodge of Missouri.
"The energies of this Grand Lodge have been entirely devoted to the praise-
worthy object of establishing its Masonic College. At the adjourned meeting
in March, it was determined to remove the college to the city of Lexington, in
Lufayette county, and sell the property in Marion county. The Grand Lodge
adjourned to meet at Lexington on the 18th of May, for the purpose of laying
the corner-stone of the new edifice.
"Preliminary steps are taken to erect a grand Masonic hall in St. Louis.
" MAINE.
" We have the journals of this Grand Lodge at its annual communications in
June, 1816, and May, 1847. At the last communication twenty-two Lodges were
represented. The btiMness is of local character. The committee to whom the
subject was referred, reported adversely to granting Grand Lodge certificates.
Your committee can not find that the General Grand Lodge or representative
system have been adopted or rejected.
"The journals of this Grand Lodge for the annual communications held in
December, 1845 and 1846, indicate much care and intelligence in their prepara-
tion. .The representative system and General Grand Lodge are, and have
been by this body steadily opposed. Their correspondence is fully and ably
reported. The Correspondence Committee animadvert upon innovations on
the ancient practices of the Order, such as to adjourn a Lodge; to move an ad-
journment ; to call for ayes and noes ; to ask for the previous question : to limit
debate by a fixed rule; or to enter a protest on a Masonic journal ; are all novel-
ties and need correction, say they.
" INDIANA.
•'The journals of the Grand Lodge of Indiana for May, 1846 and 1817, have
been examined by your committee. The M. \V. Grand Master, Isaac Bartlett,
in 1816 laid before them an address replete with practical suggestions and sound
Masonic instruction, and indicates a mind deeply imbued with a love for the
Institution. The Committee on Foreign Correspondence made & very able re-
port, which evinces much care and labor in its compilation. Twenty-eight
chartered Lodges and eight U. D. were represented. The General Grand Lodge
question was in 1846 referred to the consideration of the subordinate Lodges.
In May, 1847, it was taken up and laid on the table. Upon the representative
system they wish to stand 'noncommittal.'
"The Committee on Foreign Correspondence for 1847 aimed to vie with the
preceding committee, but want of time prevented them from completing the
design.
"The Grand Lodge has made some progress towards establishing a ' widows'
home and manual labor school;' which is suspended for the present.
400 HISTOEY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS.
"Your committee regret to learn from the proceedings for May, 1847, that the
Grand Lodge, under its by-laws, was compelled to interdict Masonic intercourse
with Johnson Watts, its Grand Master, in consequence of his having been sus-
pended by a chapter, and he was deposed from the office of Grand Master.
The subject, was brought before the Grand Lodge by the said Johnson Watts
himself, in a letter to the Grand Lodge, declining to take his station as Grand
Master. A committee was appointed to whom the matter was referred, with in-
structions to examine into the truth of the rumors, and report charges, if
true; and if not true, to exonerate him from any unjust imputation in such
unfounded rumors. The committee, after a full investigation of the matter,
finding the evidence entirely insufficient to sustain the charges, recommended
the following resolution :
"'Resolved, That the Most Worshipful Grand Master be requested to take his
station as such, and discharge the duties of his office;'
" Which, after some discussion, was amended by striking out the resolving
clause, and inserting the following preamble and resolution, which was adopted :
"'WHEREAS, Proof has been exhibited to this Grand Lodge that Bro. Johnson
Watts, our Grand Master, has been suspended from all the privileges of Ma-
sonry by King David's Chapter of Royal Arch Ma*pns, under the jurisdiction
i-f the Grand Chapter of the State of Indiana, of which Chapter Bro. Watts was
a member: therefore,
•• ' Resolred, That without expressing an opinion as to his guilt or innocence,
all Masonic intercourse with Bro. Johnson Watts by Masons under this jurisdic-
tion is highly improper, and should be totally interdicted during such sut-pen-
sion.'
" Ought such things to be ? Your committee think not. There is a resolution
of our Grand Lodge of the same kind, which your committee have ever believed
was adopted in haste and without due consideration, which is now inoperative,
and which your committee hope will be continued so by rescinding the reso-
lution.
" MISSISSIPPI.
"The journals of this Grand Lodge for January, 18-16, and February, 1847, ex-
cite considerable interest. The communication of 1846 was opened by the M.
W. Jno. A. Quitman, Grand Master, in an address exhibiting the condition of
Masonry, and calling the attention of the Grand Lodge to important matters for
its action, among which the subject of education received its share. A General
Grand Lodge was approved, properly restricted.
"Your committee have noticed some action of the Grand Lodge of Missouri
in relation to the Grand Lodge of Louisiana. The Grand Lodge of Mississippi
have gone still further, and after a full investigation by a committee, have
adopted resolutions disfranchising the Grand Lodge of Louisiana, and declar-
ing a readiness to grant charters and dispensations within the territorial juris-
diction of the Grand Lodge of Louisiana, and have, it is believed, actually
granted such dispensations. The Grand Lodge of Louisiana, at its last com-
munication, appointed a committee upon the subject, who made a spiiited
report, and offered a resolution interdicting all Masonic communication be-
tween the Masons of the three first degrees of that State and the members
of the Grand Lodge of Mississippi, as also between the Masons of Louisiana
and every collection or body of persons who assume to hold Masonic Lodges
within the State without a dispensation or warrant of constitutiou from the
Grand Lodge of Louisiana. Preambles and resolutions were also adopted, fore-
warning all Grand Lodges, or other supreme Masonic authority located in any
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 401
part of the world, from granting charters, warrants, or dispensations to consti-
tute Lodges in the State of Louisiana, disfranchising them if they do so, and
also all individual Masons of that State who hold Masonic intercourse with
such Grand Lodges. The report, preamble, and resolutions are on the Grand
Secretary's desk, to which the Grand Lodge is particularly referred. That the
Grand Lodge of Louisiana should, and of right ought to have, exclusive juris-
diction co-extensive with the State, is the opinion of your committee. If the
Grand Lodge of Mississippi should arrogate to itself the right, and actually
grant a dispensation or warrant to constitute a Lodge within the limits of this
State, your committee do not doubt that if, after proper remonstrance, she
should persist in the wrong, this Grand Lodge would unhesitatingly declare
such Lodge clandestine, and interdict all Masonic communication with the
Grand Lodge, and also with the members of the Lodge so constituted. Your
committee believe that both the Grand Lodges of Mississippi and of Louisiana
have acted too precipitately — the first by granting dispensations, and perhaps
charters, before the Grand Lodge of Louisiana could have an opportunity of
remonstrating; and the other by too hastily adopting her stringent resolutions
without an attempt to effect a reconciliation. Your committee are satisfied that
there are objectionable features in the constitution of the Grand Lodge of
Louisiana, particularly article 4, recited in the proceedings of the Grand Lodge
of Missouri, they consider an innovation upon the old constitutions, which
require that a man must be of lawful age, which is held by all to be 21 years,
before he can be received into a regular Lodge; nor do your committee know
of any provision granting exclusive privilege to the sons of Masons. Your com-
mittee suppose that if the Grand Lodge of Illinois or any other Grand Lodge
were to amend their constitution so as to permit such Lodges as choose to
cumulate Odd-Fellowship and Sons of Temperance«m upon the degrees of Ma-
sonry, they would as properly be deemed regular as are the Louisiana Masons
with their cumulative rights.
" OHIO.
" Your committee recur with pleasure to the proceedings of this Grand Lodge
for October, 1845 and 1846. The addresses of the Most Worshipful William B.
Thrall, Grand Master, are full of instruction, and are characteristic of a heart
devoted to the welfare and prosperity of our ancient and honorable Order. The
reports of the Correspondence Committees are worthy of an attentive perusal.
The business at each communication is principally local. Seventy-nine char-
tered Lodges and eight U. D. were represented. We congratulate the brethren
of Ohio upon their apparent prosperity. From the report of the Correspon-
dence Committee, this Grand Lodge disapproves of a General Grand Lodge and
representative system, and has repudiated Grand Lodge certificates.
" MARYLAND.
" This Grand Lodge meets semi-annually, in May and November. We have
the journals of four consecutive communications, the last in May, 1847. These
journals are got up in a very neat and orderly manner, and possess much inter-
est. The addresses of their talented and beloved Grand Master, the M. W.
•Charles Oilman, are pertinentand in good style. This Grand Lodge is earnestly
nnd vigorously engaged in the establishment of a fund for the erection of an
asylum for the aged and orphans of the Craft in that State. The qualifications
•of Masters nnd Wardens of subordinate Lodgeg, and of candidates for the
—29
402 HISTOKY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS.
second and third degrees, has received the attention of this Grand Lodge, in
relation to which the following resolution has been adopted:
"'Resolved, That no Lodge in the city of Baitimore shall install as Warden
any brother who has not previously been installed as Master or Warden of said
Lodge, unless he is qualified to perform the work and lectures in the several
degrees as recognized by this Grand Lodge, and that he is thus qualified he
shall produce the certificate of the Grand Lecturer.
"The Grand Lodge has left the subject of Grand Lodge diplomas to the dis-
cretion of subordinate Lodges whether they will demand them or not. The Cor-
respondence Committee have devoted some six pages or more to the subject of
a General Grand Lodge, in which they discuss the arguments of several Grand
Lodges for and against the question. The proposition is approved by the Grand
Lodge. It might perhaps be proper here for your committee to say something
upon this momentous subject, if time and the limits of this report would permit.
But your committee deem any action of this Grand Lodge in the premises un-
necessary. They find in the correspondence budget of the Grand Secretary, a
circular from the Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Maryland, informing
him that a majority of the Grand Lodges had assented to the proposition, and
perhaps had appointed delegates, and that he expected the convention would
meet in Baltimore on the 23d of September. This Grand Lodge, therefore, can
take no action that will avail anything.
" FLORIDA.
" This Grand Lodge holds its communications on the first Monday in Decem-
ber of each year. Your committee have perused with interest the journals for
1845 and 1846. They exhibit a flourishing condition of the Craft in that juris-
diction. The Correspondence Committee made a report covering forty pages,
which evinces much care and labor and no small share of patience in its com-
pilation. They appear to favor a General Grand Lodge. Eight chartered Lodges
and two U. D. were represented at the communication in 1846. The constitution
of the Grand Lodge of Florida is appended to the proceedings of 1846.
"LOUISIANA.
" The journals of this Grand Lodge for January, 1846 and 1847, have been looked
into. Your committee are unable to comprehend so much cumulation. Ac-
companying it is a report of a committee upon the subject of their difficulty
with the Grand Lodge of Mississippi, and also preambles and resolutions
noticed in our report upon that Grand Lodge.
" MICHIGAN.
"This Grand Lodge is now recognized in a legal form, and we extend to her
the hand of fellowship, and bid her 'God speed' in her onward course. The
journals of her annual communications in January, 1846 and 1847, indicate a
healthy and flourishing condition of the Craft. Eight chartered Lodges and five
U. D. were represented at its last communication. Four charters were granted.
A General Grand Lodge is approved; Grand Lodge certificates repudiated.
" ARKANSAS.
" The journals of this Grand Lodge for November, 1845 and 1846, represent her
in a very flattering light. The reports of the Committees on Correspondence in-
dicate intelligence and skill. A resolution was adopted approving a General
Grand Lodge, and a delegate was appointed. Eight chartered Lodges and one
U. D. were represented. A charter was granted to Eldorado Lodge No. 13.
HISTOKY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS. 403
" ALABAMA.
"The journals of this Grand Lodge at its communication in December, 1845,
have been examined. No proceedings for 1846 have been received. Masonry
appears to be in the ascendant in this jurisdiction. Forty-nine Lodges were
represented in annual communication. The Correspondence Committee re-
ported against the establishment of a General Grand Lodge.
" WISCONSIN.
" The journals of the Grand Lodge of Wisconsin for the communications held
in January, 1846 and 1817, show that they have men of talents and abilities
among them, who seem to be engaged heartily in reforming abuses and in adopt-
ing measures for the government of the Craft. The Committee on Correspon-
dence made a general report, in which they glance at the prominent measures
of most Grand Lodges, and in the close bring to the notice of the Grand Lodge
the conduct of Washington Lodge No. — , Missouri, in conferring the degrees of
E. A., F. C., and M. M. on one who had been rejected by Melody Lodge No. 2,
Wisconsin, and who, after one year, had renewed his petition, and while his
petition was pending before Melody Lodge No. 2, he went to Missouri and ob-
tained the degrees, returned to Wisconsin with a diploma, and claimed the
rights of a visiting brother. The M. W. Grand Master, A. D. Smith, after paying
a very handsome and appropriate tribute to the memory of their late R. W.
Sen ior Grand Warden, Thos. P. Burnett, brings to the notice of the Grand Lodge
various matters for their consideration. Your committee notice that the Grand
Lodge of Wisconsin, at its late session, conferred the degrees of E. A., F. C., and
M. M. on a Rev. Mr. Whitaker. Your committee would ask if this is not tres-
passing upon the jurisdiction of a subordinate Lodge.
" NEW YORK.
" The transactions of this Grand Lodge, held at two communications, June,
1816 and 1847, possess great interest. The extensive foreign, or European cor-
respondence which this Grand Lodge holds, gives an interest especially to the
reports of the Correspondence Committee beyond that of any other Grand Lodge.
On the subject of a General Grand Lodge, the Correspondence Committee say:
' Your committee think that the action of this Grand Lodge, in April, 1823, should
remain unchanged, and be considered as its present opinion.' Her Masonic
Hall and Asylum Fund is, by the liberality of Lodges and individuals, accumulat-
ing very fast, and bids fair to enable them to say, ' in New York the Freemasons
take care of their own poor." The representative system is discussed at great
length by the Committee on Correspondence. Your committee had intended
to quote some of the arguments in its favor, but time and the limits of this report
forbid. If we were to notice all that is interesting in the journals before us, it
would extend our report to an almost unparalleled length. On the subject of
representatives, your committee can not refrain from noticing that the New
York committee, in their closing remarks, say: 'As for the expense to the
Grand Lodges, we have not yet had occasion to calculate the little item of post-
age attendant upon it, and that is all the expense which has been contemplated
to be borne by this Grand Lodge.' Your committee would like to know if the
magnificent sash and apron sent to Bro. Le Blanc Marconnay, of Paris, their
representative in France, cost nothing but a little ' item of postage.' The expense
was the principal objection which the Grand Lodge of Illinois had to the system
in 1845.
404 HISTORY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS.
"Your committee will also notice that the Correspondence Committee, at the
communication in 1846, in enumerating a list of letters, circulars, and other
documents which they had before them, name a 'Masonic newspaper, entitled
the Masonic Signal, published at Madison, Georgia, in which is an article treating
" on the old constitutions and ancient landmarks of our Order," and which (they
say) our brethren of Illinois would do well to read.' We take this hint of our
brethren in New York very kindly, and if they, in the plenitude of their benevo-
lence, will be kind enough to send us that paper, we will read it with pleasure,
and endeavor to profit by its precepts.
" CONNECTICUT.
"The proceedings of the Grand Lodge of Connecticut for the annual commu-
nications in May, 1846 and 1817, indicate that the Institution there is progressing.
Twenty-two Lodges were represented at the last communication ; the business
generally local. They oppose a General Grand Lodge and Grand Lodge certifi-
cates.
"The Committee on Foreign Correspondence made a report, in which they
appear to hail with pleasure the re-appearance of the Grand Lodge of Vermont,
and rejoice that, from the ' signs of the times,' the day has dawned when it will
no longer be said, in reference to the Masonic position of Vermont, ' the North is
the place of darkness.'
" SOUTH CAROLINA.
" The proceedings of this Grand Lodge occupy the whole year, 1846, in quarterly
and special meetings. The business is purely local. By a circular letter there-
from, we are informed that the Worshipful Master, Wardens, and several
members of Walhalla Lodge No. 66, at Charleston, had been suspended for
refusing to submit to the mandate of the Grand Lodge, directing the restoration
to membership in their Lodge of two members suspended or expelled by them,
they preferring to surrender their charter, which they did; after which, the
Grand Lodge suspended the Master, Wardens, and majority members, until they
shall acknowledge their errors and submit to the authority of the Grand Lodge.
The warrant was afterwards ordered to be returned to the minority, upon a pledge
that they would conform to the Ancient York Rite, as practiced in that jurisdic-
tion.
"A copy of the rules and regulations of the Grand Lodge of South Carolina,
and a list of the grand officers since the union of the two Grand Lodges of that
State, accompany the proceedings.
" TEXAS.
" The proceedings of the Grand Lodge of Texas, for January, 1846, indicate a
praiseworthy zeal for the ancient landmarks. The Grand Lodge celebrated the
festival of St. John, on the 24th of June, 1815, by invitation of Washington Lodge
No. 18, and on the same day received the report of a committee on the trans-
actions and work of said Lodge, and adopted the following resolutions:
'"Resolved, That Washington Lodge No. 18 receive from the Grand Master a
reprimand for the unmasonic and irregular proceedings which have been per-
mitted in their labors.
"'Resolved, That should such innovations or irregularities continue, or similar
instances occur to those which have come to the notice of your committee, they
would recommend that their labors as a Lodge be suspended.'
"At the January meeting, 1846, the Deputy Grand Master in his report suggests
that 'in the formation of new Lodges, it ought to be required that they have not
only the recommendation of the nearest Lodge, but that the principal officers
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 405
named in the petition should be vouched for as competent to confer the three
degrees, according to the ancient usages and customs of the Fraternity.' This
suggestion we think worthy of the attention of all Grand Lodges.
"A resolution was also adopted requiring that in the examination of visiting
brethren who are strangers, not only the ancient usages, customs, and landmarks
be carefully sustained, but that they be in possession of a Grand Lodge certifi-
cate, under which jurisdiction they may have been last a member.
'•To promote the universality of Masonry, it was
'"Resolved. That a universal convention is hereby recommended of all legal
Masonic bodies, to be holden at London, on the first Monday of July, A. L>. 1850.'
"They hold themselves ready to send a representative. The Grand Lodge of
Texas consider a General Grand Lodge a novelty, an innovation, an experiment
in Masonry, and instruct their representatives everywhere to oppose, unequivo-
cally, anything tending towards the organization of a General Grand Lodge of
the United States.
" Your committee learn by a circular from Bro. A. S. Ruthen, Grand Secretary
of the Grand Lodge of Texas, that the proceedings of that Grand Lodge, at its
last communication, were addressed to our Grand Secretary. They have not
yet come to hand. We are pained to learn also, by the same circular, that that
Grand Lodge has sustained a serious loss by the burning of their archives by
fire, at Austin, by which were destroyed many valuable matters that can not be
replaced.
"NEW HAMPSHIRE.
"The Grand Lodge of New Hampshire have sent us the proceedings of their
annual communication, held in June, 1846. Sixteen Lodges were represented.
The Grand Lodge certificate question was indefinitely postponed. The subject
of a General Grand Lodge was postponed to the next meeting of the Grand Lodge,
as also the report of the Committee on Foreign Correspondence. Your committee
regret that those proceedings have not come to hand.
" NORTH CAROLINA.
"The proceedings of the Grand Lodge of North Carolina for December, 1846,
come to us full of interesting matter. The address of the M. W. Grand Master,
P. W. Fanning, contains many important reflections, upon which your committee
would like to dwell, but the great length to which our report promises to extend,
from the amount of matter before us, suggests the necessity of brevity. Your
committee feel compelled to notice a few things that pertain particularly to our
own Grand Lodge. The Grand Master in his address says :
"' I regret exceedingly to perceive that the Grand Lodge of Illinois still per-
tinaciously persists in imposing, as a pre-requisite to Masonic admission, an
unwarrantable test, sanctioned by no authority or usage, but condemned almost
universally. The most untiring watchfulness of all who venerate the Order of
Freemasonry, and desire its perpetuity, is constantly required to save it from
finally running into sectarianism. If innovations be not summarily checked,
Masonry will soon lose its boastful universality of character, and become in its
influence exclusive and partial. Opinions, I know, adverse to my own on this
subject, are honestly entertained, but that alone does not give them sanction.
The Committee on Foreign Correspondence submitted a very lengthy report,
reviewing pretty thoroughly the entire ground of Masonic government and
practice. Although the commitee have been industrious, and presented some
extremely valuable suggestions, yet they have fallen into some errors— their
first and eleventh resolutions may be so classed.'
406 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
" The Committee on Foreign Correspondence disagreed with the Grand Master
in respect to the first resolution, and offered a similar resolution appended to
their report. Your committee do not know whether the resolution was adopted
or not, but suppose it was.
" With the sentiments and opinions of the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge
of North Carolina your committee fully concur, the report and resolution of the
Correspondence committee to the contrary notwithstanding. The Grand Master
of North Carolina might have embraced some other resolutions with the first
and eleventh, as errors of this Grand Lodge, which have been rendered inopera-
tive, and your committee hope to see rescinded at this communication.
"Your committee feel unwilling to trespass upon the time and patience of the
Grand Lodge by offering any arguments in support of their views and opinions.
Your committee will, however, ask the indulgence of the Grand Lodge, to state
a few facts which will tend to show the great propriety and necessity of Grand
Lodges giving ample time (from one communication to the next) for their com-
mittees to make their reports on foreign correspondence, that their reports may
be made at an early hour of the session, and important portions, if necessary,
be referred to committees. Had this been tha case with the Grand Lodge of
Illinois in 1845, your committee feel confident that at least some of the resolu-
tions of that session which are deemed obnoxious to the old constitutions and
ancient landmarks of the Order, not only by your committee but by many of the
Grand Lodges in correspondence with this Grand Lodge, would have been re-
jected. But to the facts.
" 1. The labor of preparing the report and the resolutions was performed en-
tirely by the chairman of the committee, of which one of your present com-
mittee was a member, made so by particular request in place of one who asked
to be excused.
" 2. The report was never exhibited to the other members of the committee,
at least to him who is a member of the present committee, for concurrence or
approval, nor did he ever see it to read until it appeared in print.
" 3. It was read, as long as it is, to the Grand Lodge on Thursday morning (at
a time when the member of your present committee was unavoidably and busily
engaged in other important matters), received, and the thirteen resolutions con-
sidered, and a great amount of other business transacted before the Grand Lodge
finally adjourned its session before one o'clock, P. M., such was the haste to
enable brethren to take seats in the stages for their homes.
"4. After having been received in such haste, it was recommitted to the
chairman of the committee for him to amplify and prepare for publication. The
chairman of the committee took it with him to Chicago, where it was published
with the proceedings. The resolution recommitting it does not appear in Ihe
printed proceedings as made out in the transcript of the Grand Secretary, but in
the caption to the report it appears to be ' referred back to the same committee,
to be prepared for publication ' (perhaps for the sake of euphony). Circum-
spection is a Masonic virtue, but in this instance the Grand Lodge of Illinois
failed to observe it, in the humble opinion of your committee.
" IOWA.
"The proceedings of the Grand Lodge of Iowa, at its communication in
January, 1846, have been carefully examined. Your committee find that, by a
resolution of the Grand Lodge of Iowa, the next grand annual communication
HISTOKY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS. 407
of the Grand Lodge was to have been holden on the first Tuesday in June, 1847,
provided a majority of the subordinate Lodges approve the amendment of the
first section of the by-laws. In the event of the non-approval of the said amend-
ment, your committee can not guess when they will meetagain in Grand Lodge.
No provision appears to be made. The journal before your committee indicates
a good degree of skill, and the Craft appear to be flourishing. The Grand Sec-
retary made a, very pretty report on foreign correspondence. The journal shows
seren chartered Lodges and two U. D.
" raSTRICT OP COLUMBIA.
" The Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia sends us proceedings from
November, 1845, to January, 1847. There is quite an amount of business trans-
acted, mostly local. They favor a General Grand Lodge.
" RHODE ISLAND.
"The journal of this Grand Lodge before the committtee is an abstract of pro-
ceedings from September, 1844, to June, 1840, inclusive. Dealings with several
delinquent Lodges are the principal transactions. It appears that several Lodges
had ceased to labor, and individual members had sold the property and con-
verted the funds to their own use. Do Masons forget 'justice?' There are two
reports on foreign correspondence, both possessing the merit of brevity.
" KENTUCKY.
" The journal of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky at the annual communication
in August, 1846, shows that the Craft are in a high degree prosperous and
flourishing. It contains the second annual report of the board of trustees of the
Masonic College, with a catalogue of students numbering lys from nine states,
four from France, and one from Spain. This Institution flourishes beyond the
expectation of its most sanguine friends, and bids fair at no remote period to
rank among the first institutions of the land. The M. W. Grand Master, William
Holloway, delivered a very appropriate address at opening of the Grand Lodge,
in which he remarks that ' the past season has been one of unusual activity
among the Craft throughout our jurisdiction, as will be seen from the number
of new dispensations and the returns from the various Lodges.' Eight Lodges
received charters, and one dispensation continued. Your committee are gratified
to learn that the same activity still prevails. We are informed, through the Ma-
sonic Mirror and Organ of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky, that since December last
thirteen dispensations for the formation of new Lodges have been granted.
This Grand Lodge opposes a General Grand Lodge.
" This Grand Lodge held its annual communication in October, 1846, the
journals of which your committee have perused with no ordinary pleasure. The
address of the Most Worshipful Grand Master, Edmund Dillahunty, is most
eloquent and able. Your committee would be pleased to quote many paragraphs
from it, but our limits forbid. The Committee on Foreign Correspondence made
an able report from the journals of some seventeen Grand Lodges. Your com-
mittee regret that the proceedings of our Grand Lodge for 1815 was one among
the missing. We are assured by Past Grand Master Walker, who superintended
the publication, that he addressed one to each Grand Lodge in the United States.
The committee incline to the opinion that the time has not yet arrived to
establish a General Grand Lodge, but think that good may be done by occasional
conventions. A select committee on education submitted a report and resolu-
tions, which were adopted. The second resolution recommends the opening of
subscriptions by subordinate Lodges, for the establishment of a college.
408 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS,
" VERMONT.
" While making a list of the journals put into their hands by the Grand
Secretary, your committee anticipated great pleasure in announcing to this
Grand Lodge that the desolating storm of bitter and vindictive persecution
against our Order, which passed over our whole country and affected every por-
tion of it to a greater or less degree, and which seemed to spend its utmost
violence and fury against the Fraternity in Vermont, has at length passed en-
tirely away, and while its low murmurs are heard in the distance, the sound of
the gavel salutes our ears from the ever-verdant hills of Vermont, the workmen
have gathered their tools from the rubbish and ruins, and the Grand Lodge has
renewed its labors in the, supervision of the Craft. But we are called to pause
and examine the ground on which we stand, lest it may be holy ground.
"In none of the journals before your committee is the Grand Lodge of Ver-
mont mentioned, except in the transactions of the Grand Lodge of New York.
We suppose the reason is that other Grand Lodges had not received the Ver-
mont journal prior to the communication of which we have the journal. In the
journals of the Grand Lodge of New York, your committee notice in the report
of the Committee on Foreign Correspondence, that that committee has given a
concise history of the Grand Lodge of Vermont from its first constitution,
October 14, 1794, to the 14th of January, 1846, and then interpose a question for
the consideration of the Grand Lodge of New York, whether the organization
of the Grand Lodge of Vermont has been kept up from 1836 to 1846, according
to the general laws of the Institution or the constitutions of the Grand Lodge
of Vermont? Your committee regret exceedingly they have not been able to
find any action whatever of the Grand Lodge of New York upon the suggestion
of her committee. What means this silence? Does the Grand Lodge of New
York intend to give the question the go-by, and let it pass for what it is worth ?
Or has it been thrown out as a feeler to sound the opinions of other Grand
Lodges? Your committee would have been more than gratified to have seen
some action of the Grand Lodge of New York upon the subject. We should then
have had the light and experience of that ancient, intelligent, and experienced
body to guide us in this (to us) untrodden path.
"In the journal sent to us from Vermont, your committee find the following
resolution, which was passed unanimously:
'•'Resolved, That the thanks of this Grand Lodge be tendered to our late Most
Worshipful Grand Master, Nathan B. Haswell, for the firmness, fidelity, and
ability with which he has so acceptably discharged the duties of Grand Master
of this Grand Lodge for the long period of sixteen years.'
" Bro. Haswell, it appears, was Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Vermont
long before the identity of that body could with any propriety have been ques-
tioned. Shall we then now disfranchise them because, while the tornado rushed
over them as with the besom of destruction, and threatened to level the walls
of our ancient and time-honored Institution with the dust, and leave no vestige
of Freemasonry in the land, and while many shrank from the merciless blast, a
few noble spirits, emulous of that great example of firmness, integrity, and
virtue, vivid in their recollection from the time they were first invested with
the jewels of Master Masons, breasted the storm, and while tossed upon the sea
of persecution, by an eye of 'faith ' they beheld in the dim distance one bright
spot upon the horizon that gave them ' hope' that better 'days would arise, and
they should again be as a city set on a hill, diffusing joy and gladness in the
dispensation of their 'charity.'
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 409
"As a Grand Lodge, they may have been vested of legal rights by the State,
and if those rights are surrendered may never again be obtained. Perhaps to
secure these rights and hand them down unimpaired to succeeding generations,
was not the least inducement to them to withstand the sneers and contumely
and overcome the ' thousand difficulties which beset their path and enable them
successfully to resist encroachments from enemies without and foes within the
Masonic fold.' Your committee will desist, hoping that the matter will be com-
mitted to abler hands to search for the right.
" MASSACHUSETTS.
"The journals of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, from September, 1845,
to June, 1816, inclusive, have been examined with pleasure. Their work ap-
pears, as they profess, to be conducted according to the old constitutions. They
have appointed the Rev. Bro. William James Carver as their representative in
the Grand Lodge of England, but seem to wish that it should not be construed
into a precedent to govern them in their social intercourse with their sister
Grand Lodges in the United States. They have elected the Rev. and R. W.
Bro. George Oliver, D. D., of Scopwiok, England, an honorary member, with the
rank and privileges of a Past Deputy Grand Master, and W. Robert Thomas
Crucifix, M. D., of London, with the rank and privileges of P. Senior Grand
Warden.
" PENNSYLVANIA.
" We seldom see any of the proceedings of this Grand Lodge. Pennsylvania,
is called tha Keystone State, and does her Grand Lodge put her light under a
key and keep it hid? One design on our Masonic trestle-board teaches that
our light should not be put under a bushel, but on a table, that all may see. The
Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania has this time condescended to lift the curtain a
little and give us a glimpse of what she can do. She has sent us a very neat
pamphlet containing a list of grand officers and committees, and also a very
sensible address from the M. W. Grand Master, James Page, which treats several
subjects in good style, and exhibits the financial condition of the Grand Lodge
as very flattering.
"Your committee have also examined a number of miscellaneous documents,
circulars, reports, and pamphlets, of which we note particularly the Masonic Mir-
ror and On/an of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky, a monthly magazine devoted to Ma-
sonic intelligence and literature, ably edited by several brothers, and published
by William C. Munger, Covington, eight numbers of which have been received
by the Grand Secretary and submitted to us. They contain many able and
eloquent addresses and well written essays upon different subjects. We con-
sider it a valuable periodical, and recommend it to those of the Craft who are
desirous of encouraging a Masonic periodical. As the work was not ordered,
your committee suppose it is intended as a compliment to the Grand Lodge by
the editors, for which they have our thanks.
" We find also on the files of our correspondence the .second annual report of
the trustees of the Masonic College at LaGrange, Ky., accompanied by the fol-
lowing letter :
" ' MASONIC COLLEGE, LA GRANGE, Ky., October, 1846.
"' SIR AND BROTHER: — Herewith I have the pleasure of transmitting to you a
copy of our last annual report to the Grand Lodge of Kentucky.
" 'As our effort is purely of a Masonic character, and one which must deeply
interest the Fraternity at large, I trust you will excuse the liberty I take in
—30
410 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
saying to you that we are forming a library and collection of minerals, &c.,
and will properly appreciate and duly acknowledge in our next report to the
Grand Lodge of Kentucky any donations of books, maps, coins, minerals, &<;.,
which you may find it convenient to make to the Institution, and that you will
promote the cause of education and of Freemasonry by doing for us what you
can in this respect, and by interesting your friends in our behalf.
" ' Please direct to the care of Willis Stewart, Esq., Louisville, Kentucky.
'" Very respectfully and fraternally yours,
'•'J. RANDOLPH F1NLEY, President.
" ' To LEVI LUSK, Grand Secretary Grand Lodge of Illinois.'
" Circulars from the Grand Lodges of Connecticut and Vermont, giving a list
of officers elect and their proper signatures attached.
"A circular letter from members of a committee of the Grand Lodge of Louisi-
ana, calling the attention of this Grand Lodge to a report and series of resolu-
tions of the Grand Lodge of Louisiana in relation to the Grand Lodge of
Mississippi.
" The Grand Secretary acknowledges the receipt of a package of circular let-
ters from the Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of New York, notifying this
Grand Lodge of the existence of clandestine Lodges in New York, and submit-
ting to this Grand Lodge the propriety of refusing to examine any person
hailing from that State who does not produce a Grand Lodge certificate signed
by their Grand Secretary and sealed with their Grand Lodge seal. These cir-
culars have been distributed to the grand officers and most important points in
this jurisdiction, with a request that the Lodges in the vicinity of each should
be informed of their contents.
'•A circular from the Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of South Carolina,
in relation to the action of that Grand Lodge in the matter of Walhalla Lodge
No. 66, reference to which has been had in a former part of this report.
"Your committee feel unwilling to close this report without adverting to some
matters of general interest.
'• GENERAL GRAND LODGE.
" Your committee deem it unnecessary for this Grand Lodge to take any action
upon the propriety or impropriety of the establishment of a General Grand
Lodge. We have seen a circular, sent to the Grand Secretary (copies of which
were sent by him to the M. W. Grand Master), from the Grand Secretary of the
•Grand Lodge of Maryland, stating that a majority of the Grand Lodges had
expressed themselves favorable to a General Grand Lodge, and that it was ex-
pected that delegates would convene in Baltimore, on the 23d of September, for
the purpose of forming a constitution. If that convention met as was anticipated,
it will have closed its labors before this time, and no action of this Grand Lodge
•can avail anything. The proceedings of the convention, if it met, will probably
be received by this Grand Lodge before its next annual communication, and this
Grand Lodge can then act advisedly.
" CONFERRING DEGREES ON NON-RESIDENTS.
" This subject was discussed at some length by the Correspondence Committee
of this Grand Lodge in 1845, as will be seen by recurring to their report, and it
would seem almost superfluous for your committee at this time to waste time
in its consideration; but it appears from many of the communications before
them, that this matter is assuming a more general interest, and demands that
some decisive measures should be adopted to prevent the evil. Your committee
HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 411
are not cognizant of any infringement of this kind having been committed upon
the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge, but they have noticed in some of the jour-
nals complaints of recent date. Maryland complains of Virginia, and Wisconsin
complains of Missouri. Your committee conceive that it is a point conceded on.
all hands, that the jurisdiction of a Grand Lodge is co-extensive with the limits
of the State or territory within which such jurisdiction is exercised, and in no
case can a Grand Lodge extend its jurisdiction into a State or territory in which
there is a Grand Lodge, or suffer its subordinate Lodges to initiate, pass, or
raise a person who is known to have his residence beyond its own jurisdiction.
Various Grand Lodges have given an expression on the subject, but their various
action has all resulted the same, and seems inadequate to remedy the evil. The
Grand Lodge of Ohio decided that 'persons residing under the jurisdiction of
the Grand Lodge of Ohio, who willfully and knowingly obtain the degrees of
Masonry in a foreign jurisdiction, shall not be regarded as Masons;' but if they
pursue this course ignorantly, and the person is worthy, he shall be 'recognized
as a brother.' The Grand Lodge of Maryland says: ' If from selfish motives —
from distrust of his acceptance, or from other cause originating with and exist-
ing in himself— an individual willfully and knowingly travels into a foreign
jurisdiction and takes the Masonic degrees, he shall be held and considered a
clandestine Mason.' The Grand Lodge of Virginia conclude that a man can not
be a clandestine Mason who was made in a regular Lodge; 'that to constitute a
clandestine Mason, he must be made in a clandestine Lodge— that is, in a Lodge
working without a regular charter.' The Grand Lodge of Maryland admit the
argument, and say their 'resolution, instead of declaring an individual clandes-
tine, should expel him.' This resolution of the Grand Lodge of Maryland was
not sufficient to deter one who had been rejected by a Lodge in Maryland from
applying to a Lodge in Virginia. Your committee therefore conclude that
subordinate Lodges which receive or entertain the petition of a person who has
not a bona fide residence within their jurisdiction, without first obtaining the
unanimous consent of the Lodge nearest the residence of such person, should
be made amenable to and punished by the Grand Lodge. The Grand Lodge of
Maryland, by their committee, say, upon the subject of one Lodge conferring
the degrees upon an individual residing within the limits of another Lodge in
the same State: 'Subordinate as well as Grand Lodges should have their limits
well defined, beyond which neither should travel. This should more especially
be the case with subordinate Lodges. It is presumable that Masons, if members
of a Lodge, are so in the Lodge nearest their residence, and it is most probable
that individuals residing within the limits of any given Lodge, will be best known
by the individuals constituting that Lodge. Much has been said of guarding
well the portals of the Institution — of the necessity of great care in selecting
those who are to be members thereof— of caution that the unworthy be kept out.
If subordinates do not respect territorial limits, and the Grand Lodges do not
enforce respect in such an important particular, the door is left open to the un-
worthy, and they will enter thereat. This is an important preliminary to a
careful and safe guardianship of the portals of our temple, and if strictly enforced,
there will be less room for complaint.'
"THE CASE OF WISCONSIN AND MISSOURI.
"From the report of the committee, this appears rather aggravated, but your
committee find. that a correspondence of the Grand Masters is recommended, and
we trust the matter will be amicably adjusted.
412 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
" THE PAST MASTER'S DEGREE.
"The usages of various Grand Lodges have hitherto been different, some
Grand Lodges restricting the degree only to those who had been elected to pre-
side over a regular Lodge, others authorizing and some requiring it to be con-
ferred on Wardens elect, while others permitted or perhaps authorized it to be
conferred on any worthy Master Mason who wished it. Your committee deem
it unnecessary to discuss the matter at present. The practice of conferring the
degree on any but Masters elect is giving way, and the usage of Grand Lodges
is generally settling down upon the original doctrine that the degree belongs of
right to none but such as have been elected to preside over a regular Lodge, so
far as the Grand Lodge is concerned. A chapter has the control of the degree
only so far as to confer it on such as have been elected candidates for the Royal
Arch degree, and should not confer the degree upon any one as Master of a
Lodge subordinate to the Grand Lodge. Yet one who has received the degree
in a chapter may be elected and installed to preside over a regular Lodge, and
be entitled to all the privileges of Past Master of a Lodge. Your committee con-
cur in the opinion expressed by the Grand Lodge of Florida, that a Grand Lodge
has not the right to confer the degree ; and we concur also with the views of the
Grand Lodge of Maryland, indorsed by the Grand Lodge of New York, that the
Master elect must be qualified to preside by his predecessor or some other who-
has actually presided as Master.
" EDUCATION.
"Your committee deem it only necessary to name the subject of education to
this Grand Lodge. It was brought to our notice by the Correspondence Com-
mittee in 1845, and preliminary steps taken towards adopting some method of
dispensing our Masonic charity. Your committee have incidentally brought
this subject before the Grand Lodge in former portions of this report, in speaking
of Missouri and Kentucky, which have institutions of learning conducted by
the Grand Lodges of their States, which are now in a prosperous and flourishing
condition, and are dispensing their benefits to a goodly number of the orphan
sons of worthy Masons. New York, Indiana, Maryland, and several other Grand
Lodges, have in good earnest begun the work in one form or other, and shall
Illinois lie behind? All, your committee feel satisfied, are convinced of the
propriety of doing something. Then why delay ? Are our means small? Then
begin in a small way. From small causes great effects are often produced.
"Your committee have now in a very imperfect and hasty manner gone
through with the correspondence — hasty, because other avocations crowded
upon them, and imperfect on account of the great amount of matter which it has
been their duty to examine. They have endeavored to lay before the Grand
Lodge in as concise and perspicuous a manner as possible, such of the proceed-
ings of sister Grand Lodges as were deemed important to this Grand Lodge in
particular or to the well-being of the Craft in general. How far they may have
succeeded in their design will be left for others to judge. Your committee are
aware that they have necessarily passed over many matters of interest, and
which they promised to notice, but in consequence of the double duty imposed
on them of reporting the correspondence of two consecutive years, they were
admonished in the outset that to attend to everything proper would extend
their report to an unwarrantable length, and perhaps weary the patience of the
Grand Lodge without profit.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 413
"In the discharge of the duty assigned to your committee, they have been
alternately gratified and pained. They have been gratified at the unprecedented
prosperity of our ancient and time-honored Institution, and at the developments
of its powers for the promotion of morality and human happiness. On the other
hand they have been greatly pained to witness the great severity with which
some of the committees treat the actions and opinions of other committees and
Grand Lodges, calling their resolutions ' unjust and absurd,' and not only ' un-
just,' but 'abominable and wicked,' &c., Ac. If one Grand Lodge decides that
although a man may have lost a finger or toe, or is not every whit whole, yet if
he is capable of being instructed in our mysteries he is a proper candidate,
another Grand Lodge would call it making a Mason of ' part of a man,' 'a blind
man.' When will Masons learn that Masons are but men, and that men are liable
to err, and that the better way to correct error is not denunciation and abuse,
but reason and candid argument prudently enforced.
" Finally, your committeee desire that the members of the Grand Lodge
should not pass hastily and carelessly by the many topics which have been ad-
verted to; that they will not, as is too often the practice of Grand Lodges, adopt
without due deliberation the doctrines by them set forth ; and where your com-
mittee may have failed to carry out fully their duty, they trust the individual
members will be diligent to bring up, in proper form, all matters omitted or left
unfinished by your committee.
" The necessity of great care and due deliberation in the reception of reports,
from Committees on Foreign Correspondence particularly, is obvious. The
Grand Lodge is held responsible for all contained in the report which the record
says 'was concurred in,' or ' was read and adopted.' And although the com-
mittee may have inculcated doctrines or advocated propositions which, if sub-
mitted as a simple, disconnected proposition, would receive unqualified disap-
probation, yet they are adopted in the report, and sent forth as the deliberate
opinions of the Grand Lodge. Hence the necessity of having such reports pre-
sented at an early day of each communication. If this practice is pursued,
much error will be likely to be avoided, and more uniformity of action will mark
our labors.
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
"L. LUSK, 1
JAMES L. ANDERSON, *> Committee."
SAML. H. DAVIS. )
The repirt of the committee was laid on the table for consideration.
Breth. Skinner (1), Dickson (3), and Jackson (18), were appointed a
committee to report all unfinished business from the last session.
Bro. Warren offered the following resolutions, which were unanimously
adopted :
"It is with feelings of deep affliction that the Grand Lodge of Illinois have
learned the loss which the Fraternity have sustained in the death of our distin-
guished brother, Col. John J. Hardin. By the nation his loss has been deeply
felt and greatly deplored. To them he was known as a statesman — bold, honest,
and energetic; alike distinguished in the halls of council as upon the field of
battle. Wherever duty and honor called, there he was — foremost in the field, and
last to retire. His biography is now the history of our country. To his fellow-
citizens his loss is great; but to his Masonic brethren, his place can never be
filled — yet, though his seat be vacant in our halls, his memory will ever live,
green as the sprig of cassia; therefore,
414 HISTOKY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS.
"Resolved, That the members of this Grand Lodge will wear the usual badge of
mourning during the present session, as a mark of respect for their lamented
brother, John J. Hardin.
"Resolved, That the Grand Secretary be instructed to transmit a copy of this
resolution to the family of our late brother."
Communications were received from Breth. Starkweather, of Chicago,
I. P. Hatfield, of Chicago, and James Wirick, of Peru, which were re-
ferred to appropriate committees.
The Grand Secretary reported that Columbus Lodge No. 6 had sur-
rendered its charter and the accounts of the Lodge. The matter was
referred to the Committee on Chartered Lodges.
The Grand Lodge was then called off until 8 o'clock Tuesday morning,
at which time it was again called to labor.
Present: as on the day previous, with the additions of Z. P. Cabanis,
W. M. No. 4, and proxy W. M. No. 19; William B. Mills, W. M. No. 35.
Bro. Chatterton was permitted the use of the money loaned him at the
last annual communication, for the further term of one year, upon his
giving his note with interest at six per cent.
The Committee on Unfinished Business reported as follows:
"The Committee on Unfinished Business beg leave to report that they have
examined the printed proceedings of the last annual communication, and find
undisposed of the following:
"1st. On page 21, a resolution offered by Bro. Ralston, as follows: 'Resolved,
That the last clause of Section 16, of the By-Laws, be and is hereby repealed.'
"2d. On page^22, the following: 'Resolved, That all amendments to the Con-
stitution proposed at the last grand annual communication, be laid on the table
until the next grand annual communication, and that the Grand Secretary be
instructed to inform all the subordinate Lodges that have not already reported
their action thereon, to report at the next grand annual communication.'
" 3d. On pages 30 and 31, and appended to the report of the committee to whom
was referred certain resolutions of Bodley Lodge No. 1, the following: 1st.
'Resolved, That the operation of resolutions Nos. 1, 7, and 11, on pages 57 and 58,
and of the resolutions on pages 13 and 14, of the published proceedings of the
Grand Lodge of Illinois, held at Jacksonville, A. D. 1815, be and are suspended
until the opinion of the subordinate Lodges be obtained ; and that said opinion
be requested to be sent in at the next regular communication of the Grand Lodge
of Illinois.' 2d. 'Resolved, That it be recommended to the several subordinate
Lodges under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, to procure so far
as it may be practicable and convenient, the names of all Master Masons residing
within their respective jurisdictions, and report the same in their annual com-
munications, for the information of this Grand Lodge.'
"4th. On page 34, 'On motion, the report and resolutions from Warren Lodge
No. 14 were ordered to lie on the table.'
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
"O. C. SKINNER, )
CARDING JACKSON, {r Committee."
A. C. DICKSON. J
The report of the committee was laid on the table.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 415
The following communication from Mt. Vernon Lodge No. 31, was re-
ceived and laid on the table " for the present:"
"A question has arisen in our Lodge whether we can suspend or expel a Fellow
Craft or Entered Apprentice for unmasonic conduct. If we can, how can it be
done, and in what Lodge must he be tried ? He can not, of course, be tried in a
Masters' Lodge, because he can not be heard ; nor in a lower Lodge, because no
business can be done in those but conferring the degrees.
"W. W. BENNETT,
W. J. STEPHENSON,
Committee on behalf of the Lodge."
The following communication from Bodley Lodge No. 1, was presented
by Bro. Dills, and referred to the Committee on Finance.
"WHEREAS, Bodley Lodge No. 1 has from time to time paid into the funds of
the Grand Lodge of Illinois, the sum of one hundred and twenty-seven dollars
or more, and it does not satisfactorily appear by the printed proceedings of the
Grand Lodge, to what purpose such funds have been applied, or what amount is
still on hand; therefore,
"Resolved, That our representatives in the Grand Lodge at its next annual
communication, be instructed to use all the influence in their power to have a
satisfactory investigation and report upon all things relating to such funds,
ascertaining what amount has been paid by the several subordinate Lodges into
the treasury of the Grand Lodge, and for what purposes, definitely, they, or a part
of them have been applied, and what amount is now or ought to be in the
treasury of the Grand Lodge.
"The above preamble and resolution was adopted at an adjourned regular
meeting of Bodley Lodge No. 1, held in the city of Quincy, on Monday evening,
September 27th, 1847.
"Attest: LEWIS WATSON, Sec."
An account of Bro. Sweet, of Jacksonville, for printing, was referred
to the Committee on Finance. This bill was presented in 1845, and
tabled.
The Committee on Petitions and Grievances reported as follows:
"The Committee on Petitions and Grievances have had before them a letter
from Bro. Isaac P. Hatfield, a member of LaFayette Lodge No. 18, Chicago, com-
plaining of the arbitrary conduct of Past Grand Master Walker, in expelling him
from the degrees of Masonry, and asking justice of this Grand Lodge.
" He states that he was, and legally still is, a member of Apollo Encampment,
in Chicago. That on the 5th day of October, 1846, he received notice from the
said Walker that he had been expelled therefrom, in which notice his attention
was called to a resolution purporting to have been adopted by the Grand Lodge
of Illinois in 1845, declaring that suspension or expulsion from an Encampment
carried with it suspension or expulsion from all the lower degrees, and that
under this resolution of the Grand Lodge, he was declared by the Grand Master
to be so expelled. He further states that he is unconscious of wrong doing
towards Apollo Encampment; that no charge or charges were ever preferred
against him by that body; that of course he never had a hearing therein, nor
any charges to reply to; and that he has not to this day received any notice of
his expulsion, except through the said Grand Master Walker. In conclusion,
the petitioner asks whether or not the said Grand Master Walker had any
authority for his action in the premises, and whether this Grand Lodge sanction
and approve thereof.
416 HISTORY OF MASON 11 Y IN ILLINOIS.
"Your committe are relieved from what would otherwise be the most difficult
part of their duty in passing upon this case, by the action had at this session of
the Grand Lodge on the foreign correspondence report of 1845. The Grand
Lodge has now decided that the resolutions accompanying that report were not
adopted constitutionally, if adopted at all, and that consequently they never
were binding on the action of subordinate Lodges. The particular resolution,
therefore, referred to, is null and void, and suspension or expulsion from an
Encampment does not, by the same act, carry with it suspension or expulsion
from the inferior degrees. Whether it should do so or not, is a question for
the Grand Lodge to decide, if they shall deem it necessary to act thereupon.
The question, in the opinion of the undersigned, is not before them for their
decision. From a certificate accompanying the statement of the petitioner, it
appears that he is now a member of LaFayette Lodge, Chicago — a position he
is certainly competent to hold, for anything that appears in the Constitution
and By-Laws of this Grand Lodge to the contrary. The committee offer the
following resolution:
"Resolved, That inasmuch as the matter of grievance* complained of by Bro.
Hatfield grew out of the enforcement of a resolution which had never received
the deliberate sanction of this Grand Lodge, and has therefore been declared
void, the said Hatfield have leave to withdraw his petition.
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
"SAM'L H. DAVIS,*!
H. DILLS, Y Committee"
ADAM BREWER.
S,)
V Com;
l.j
The Committeee on Petitions and Grievances also made the following
report :
"The Committee on Petitions and Grievances, to whom was referred the peti-
tion of Bro. James Wirick, a member of the late Helm Lodge, U. D., asking that
his Masonic standing may not be affected by the act of the Grand Lodge ex-
scinding said Helm Lodge, for the reason that at the time of such excision, he
was absent from the State, beg leave to report: That a resolution meeting all
contingencies of this sort was adopted by the last Grand Lodge, in the words
following (page 33, proceedings 184G):
"Resolved, That it is the sense of this Grand Lodge that the suspension of a
subordinate Lodge by this Grand Lodge, only affects the standing of its indi-
vidual members so far as they participate in disregarding the edicts of this Grand
Lodge after the first information thereof coming to their knowledge, and pro-
viding such individuals by their act shall not have been the cause of the action
of this Grand Lodge declaring such Lodge suspended or clandestine.
"Deeming this resolution to meet the case now referred to the committee,
they ask to be excused from any further consideration of the subject.
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
"SAM'L H. DAVIS,'
H. DILLS, }- Committee."
ADAM BREWER.
3,~|
\-Con
i. )
So much of the report as related to Bro. Hatfield, was adopted. So
much as related to Bro. Wirick, was accepted, and the committee dis-
charged from further consideration of the subject.
The Committee on Chartered Lodges reported the returns and work of
Nos. 1, 3, 4, and 8, correct. Exceptions were taken to the work of No.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 417
19, inasmuch as petitions were received, acted on, and the petitioners
initiated on the same day.
The Committee on Lodges U. D. reported as follows :
" The Committee on Returns and Work of Lodges Under Dispensation, re-
spectfully report that they have examined the returns of Cambridge and Unity
Lodges, and find them correct, and dues paid. In relation to Cambridge Lodge
your committee remark, that a charter is prayed for to hold their meetings
alternately at Cambridge, in Henry county, and at Rock Island, in Rock Island
county. It is recommended that the prayer be granted, so soon as a copy of
their by-laws shall be furnished to the Grand Master, and by him approved.
"In relation to Unity Lodge, your committee are advised that a dispensation
was granted by our late Grand Master Walker, about the expiration of his term, to
run for twelve months from date. Your committee are of opinion that Grand Mas-
ter Walker exceeded his authority in granting a dispensation beyond the meet-
ing of the Grand Lodge next succeeding the date of said dispensation, for which
Unity Lodge ought not to be held responsible. Your committee are further ad-
vised that this Lodge was organized with a brother as Master different from him
(Bro. Barry) mentioned in the dispensation, at the recommendation of theGrand
Lecturer— a fact to which your committee call the attention of theGrand Lodge,
without expressing any opinion thereon. Your committee also recommend
some slight alterations in the by-laws which they have noted. Your committee
further recommend that a charter be granted to Unity Lodge as Unity Lodge
No. — .
" AH of which is respectfully submitted.
"JAS. L. ANDERSON,)
J. R. CRANDALL, V Committee"
M. TAYLOR. )
The following Grand officers were then elected :
"WILLIAM LAVELY, Springfield, M. W. Grand Master.
JOHN R. CRANDALL, Peoria, R. W. Dep. Gr. Master.
JOSEPH C. KETCHAM, Alton, R. W. Senior Gr. Warden.
MATTHIAS TAYLOR, Chicago, R. W. Junior Gr. Warden.
WILLIAM McMURTRY, Henderson, R. W. Gr. Treasurer.
WILLIAM MITCHELL, Peoria, R. W. Gr. Secretary.
Rev. N. P. HEATH, Peoria, R. W. Gr. Chaplain.
E. R. ROE, Shawneetown, R. W. Gr. Orator.
DAVID M. KITTINGER, Alton, W. Gr. Tyler.
The Grand Lodge was then called off until 2 o'clock P. M.
TUESDAY AFTERNOON, Oct. 5, 1847.
The Grand Lodge resumed labor. Present, as in the morning.
Bro. "Warren was appointed a committee to attend upon and invite the
attendance of Bro. Stephen W. B. Carnegy, Past Grand Master of
Missouri.
Breth. Mitchell (15), Anderson (9), and Davis (15), were appointed a
committee to examine the charter granted the Grand Lodge of Illinois
by the General Assembly, and ascertain whether any action of the
Grand Lodge was necessary in regard to the same.
418 HISTOEY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
" Bro. Warren then introduced Bro. Carnegy, P. G. M. of the Grand
Lodge of Missouri, who was received with the usual grand honors, after
which Bro. Carnegy made a very pertinent and beautiful address," and
of which he was abundantly capable.
The resolution of Bro. Happy, offered at the preceding communica-
tion, to permanently locate the Grand Lodge, was taken up and laid on
the table.
The question then arose as to where the Grand Lodge should hold its
next communication. A ballot was taken, which resulted in favor of
Alton — it receiving 16 votes, Peoria 10, and Springfield 4. It was then
"Resolved, That the next annual communication of this Grand Lodge be held
at the city of Alton, on the first Monday in October next."
Bro. "Warren offered, as an amendment to the by-laws, the following:
"Hereafter no Lodge subordinate to this Grand Lodge shall vote by proxy."
On motion of Bro. Happy,
"Resolved, That each subordinate Lodge under the jurisdiction of this Grand
Lodge be required to furnish each deceased brother Master Mason's widow, who
is in good standing, with a certificate of such brother's standing at his death,
that she may derive the advantage belonging to a Master Mason's widow."
The bill of Bro. Sweet, amounting to $8.50, for printing blanks for
grand officers, and which was disallowed in 1845, was allowed.
The special committee to whom was referred the subject of investiga-
ting the pecuniary circumstances of the widow of John Barney, and
also the expenses incurred during his sickness and death at Peoria,
reported as follows :
" The select committee, to whom was referred the subject of investigating the
pecuniary circumstances of the widow of our late brother John Barney, and
also the expenses incurred during his sickness and death while at Peoria, report
that, in the opinion of your committee, the widow of our late brother John
Barney does not demand the assistance, in any pecuniary point of view, of this
Grand Lodge. They further report and recommend that this Grand Lodge pay
out of the charity fund belonging to said Grand Lodge, the sum of $146.75, it
being for expenses incurred by the sickness and burial of our late brother
John Barney, while at Peoria. We would recommend that the above sum be
paid to Bro. Mitchell, Master of Peoria Lodge, to be by him paid over to the
different persons according to their bills presented, except $16 to be deducted
from Bro. A. O. Garrett's bill.
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
"CARDING JACKSON, ~)
PETER SWEAT, }- Committee."
M. TAYLOR. j
On motion, the report was accepted and the recommendation adopted.
Bro. Davis offered the following, which was adopted :
"•Resolved, That in issuing charters to subordinate Lodges they be numbered
consecutively, according to the date of the application therefor; and that when
a charter is rescinded or surrendered, the number of said Lodge shall remain
vacant, to be resumed when such charter shall be restored."
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 419
The committee to whom was referred for investigation the case of Bro.
John Halfpenny, of Canton, reported that said brother was over eighty
years of age, in reduce$ circumstances, and utterly unable to provide
for himself, and recommended an appropriation of forty dollars, which
was concurred in.
Several accounts against the Grand Lodge bavins: been presented (what
for is not stated), the Grand Lodge was called off until 8 o'clock Wednes-
day morning.
WEDNESDAY MORNING, Oct. 6, 1847.
The Grand Lodge called to labor at 8 o'clock.
Present, as on the previous day.
The special committee appointed to examine the charter granted to
this Grand Lodge by the Legislature of the State of Illinois/ made a
report as follows :
"The committee appointed to examine the charter granted by the Legis-
lature of the State of Illinois, incorporating this Grand Lodge, would respect-
fully recommend that the three trustees provided by said act to be appointed
be now elected by ballot, as other officers of this Grand Lodge, and the com-
mittee would also recommend that hereafter all notes, bonds, and other instru-
ments, for the payment of money or performance of duties, be made payable to
the Grand Lodge of Illinois, of Ancient, Free and Accepted Masons, that being
the incorporate name of this Grand Lodge.
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
"WILLIAM MITCHELL, ")
JAMES L. ANDERSON, V Committee." •
SAMUEL H. DAVIS. j
Bro. Howard presented a petition for a new Lodge at Nauvoo, to be
named Mt. Moriah, which was referred to Breth. Skinner (1), Jonas (39),
and Holton (39).
On motion of Bro. Lusk,
"Resolved, That Macomb Lodge No. 17 be permitted to rescind a resolution
entered upon their records on the 3d day of October, 1846, upon their making
return and paying their dues for 1847."
The Committee on Appeals and Grievances reported as follows :
"The Committee on Petitions and Grievances, to whom was referred the peti-
tion of John W. Chenoworth, formerly a member of Bodley Lodge No. 1, report
that the petioner sets forth that he was a few years since expelled by said
Bodley Lodge, and he now asks that measures may be taken for his reinstate-
ment. He does not point out any irregularity in the proceedings which resulted
in his expulsion, nor give any reason for what may be called his appeal. The
committee, therefore, have nothing before them on which to adjudicate. If the
conduct of the petitioner since his expulsion has been such as to satisfy Bodley
420 HISTORY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS.
Lodge of his reformation, that body will unquestionably recommend his rein-
statement; in which case the Grand Lodge will take pleasure in complying with
their request.
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
"SAMUEL H. DAVIS,')
H. DILLS, ^Committee."
ADAM BREWER. j
"On motion, the report was accepted and the committee discharged
from any further consideration of the subject.
" The Committee on Petitions and Grievances also made the following
report :
"The Committee on Petitions and Grievances, to whom was referred the pro-
ceedings of Springfield Lodge No. 4, on the expulsion of Josiah Wickersham,
late a member of said Lodge, report that, although the proceedings contain the
original notice of the said Wickersham to appeal from the action of said Lodge
on his case, yet no appeal therefrom has been submitted to your committee,
and consequently there is nothing calling for their interference. From a care-
ful perusal of the proceedings of Springfield Lodge referred to, your committee
have reason to conclude that its action was regular and deliberate, and from the
evidence before us, we can not do otherwise than concur in its decision.
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
"SAMUEL H. DAVIS,)
H. DILLS, )- Committee."
ADAM BREWER. J
"On motion, the report was adopted and the committee discharged
from further consideration of the subject."
The committee upon the revision of the constitution and by-laws
asked until the next regular communication to make their report, and
suggested the appointment of some brother to fill the place of P. G. M.
Walker, he having left the State ; whereupon, Bro. E. R. Roe, of No. 14,
was appointed.
' The charter of Charleston Lodge No. 35 was authorized to be altered
and amendad by striking out the name of Henry Eckles, and inserting
Thomas C. Moor, in lieu thereof.
The Deputy Grand Master (Bro. John R. Crandall), in the absence of
the Grand Master elect (Bro. Lavely), announced the following appoint-
ments :
" W. C. HOBBS, Bloomington, W. G. S. Deacon.
W. B. MILLS, Charleston, W. G. J. Deacon.
PETER SWEAT, Peoria, W. G. Marshal.
TIMOTHY SOUTHER, |AU w Q stewards
E. J. HARPER, | Alton,. W. U. bt
JOHN H. HOLTON, Quincy, W. G. Sword Bearer.
WEBB C. QUIGLEY, Pekin, W. G. Pursuivant."
Bro. Happy presented a petition for a new Lodge at Carrollton, to be
called " Fletcher," which was referred to Breth. Happy (3), Ketchum
(27), and Howard (25).
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 421
The Grand Secretary was instructed to have printed, for the use of
subordinate Lodges, a sufficient number of blank returns.
The "constitution and by-laws" of St. John's Lodge were referred to
the Committee on Lodges U. D. This Lodge is now St. Mark's, at
Woodstock.
The Grand Lodge was then called from labor to refreshment, for the
purpose of attending the procession, installation of grand officers elect,
and hearing the oration arranged to be delivered at the Methodist
church in the city of Quincy.
At half-past one o'clock P. M., the Grand Lodge was called to labor.
"The several grand officers having been installed, took their several
stations and places."
In this portion of the record there is a mistake. Bro. Lavely was not
present at the time of his election, nor indeed during the entire session.
It is the only instance, thus far, of a Grand Master of our Grand Lodge
having been elected who was not present at the session of the Grand
Lodge over which he was elected to preside, and of the installation of
such officer by proxy.
Bro. Mitchell having now to perform the duties of Grand Secretary,
was relieved of his position on the Finance Committee, and Bro. Skin-
ner (1), substituted.
The Grand Lodge was then called off until 3 o'clock P. M.
WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON, Oct. 6, 1847.
The Grand Lodge resumed its labors.
Present : " Officers and members as at the adjournment."
The committee to whom was referred the petition for a dispensation
for a new Lodge at Nauvoo, reported favorably, and the dispensation
was granted.
The Committee on Lodges U. D. reported the returns and work of
Bloomington, Hardin, Griggsville, Temple, and Caledonia Lodges cor-
rect, and recommended the granting to each a charter. The numbers
in the report of the committee were left blank, to be filled by the Grand
Secretary, according to a resolution heretofore quoted.
These Lodges were granted charters as Bloomington "No. 43, Hardin
No. 44, Griggsville No. 45, Temple No. 46, and Caledonia No. 47.
The representatives of these Lodges were invited to take seats, as
such, in the Grand Lodge.
The committee to whom was referred the petition of sundry brethren
at Carrollton, recommended the granting them a dispensation to open
and hold a new Lodge to be called " Fletcher Lodge," which recom-
mendation was concurred in.
Bro. Skinner offered the following, which was laid on the table:
422 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"WHEREAS, In compliance with the Constitution of this Grand Lodge, the M.
W. Master of this Lodge appointed Bro. Carding Jackson Grand Lecturer of this
Grand Lodge, to visit the several subordinate Lodges and lecture to such
Lodges; and whereas said Grand Lecturer has, in compliance with his appoint-
ment, duly visited many Lodges for such purpose, and lias received a remunera-
tion wholly inadequate; therefore,
"Resoli-ed, That this Grand Lodge allow to said Bro. Jackson for his services
as such Lecturer already rendered, the sum of $ .
Past Grand Master Jonas offered the following preamble and resolu-
tion, which were adopted :
"The Grand Lodge of Illinois having survived and outlived the dangers and
"Is of childhood, and having taken its station in the bright constellatior
ling the Masonic family of the United States, it becomes its duty to carrj
perils of childhood, and having taken its station in the bright constellation
forming the Masonic family of the United States, it becomes its duty to carry
out, as far as practicable, those principles of charity and benevolence which
more particularly are placed under its immediate notice and control, and to
show the world that we intend to practice those great objects which we say
govern and influence us in our operations; and the time having now arrived for
some action on the part of the Grand Lodge in regard to the future disposition
of its resources, therefore,
"Resolved, That a committee be appointed, whose duty it shall be during the
recess of the Grand Lodge, to obtain all the information in its power, as to the
most appropriate manner of employing the resources of the Grand Lodge, and
prepare and report some plan for the action of the Grand Lodge at its next
annual communication."
Breth. Jonas (39), Holton (39,) and Ketcham (27), were appointed said
committee.
The Committee on Unfinished Business made the following report,
which was adopted :
"The Committee on Unfinished Business to whom, among other matters, was
referred the resolution of Bodley Lodge No. 1, inserted on page 5 of printed pro-
ceedings of 1816, asking for the rescinding of a resolution adopted by the Grand
Lodge of 1845, declaring a single ballot to entitle a candidate to the three degrees
of Masonry (see p. 13, printed proceedings of 1845), report that, in their opinion,
the resolution of Bodley Lodge is called for by this innovation on the usages of
Masonry, and they therefore offer the following resolution:
"Resolved, That the resolution in Grand Lodge proceedings of 1845, (page 13 of
printed minutes), be rescinded, and that subordinate Lodges be required to bal-
lot for candidates in every degree.
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
"O. C. SKINNER.
CARDING JACKSON, J- Committee."
A. C. DICKSON.
The bonds of the Treasurer and Secretary were received and approved.
The Committee on the Returns and Work of Chartered Lodges re-
ported the returns and work of Nos. 7, 8, 9, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, 25, 26, 27,
28, 30, 34, 36, 37, 38, 39, and 40, correct, and dues paid. The returns of
Nos. 15, 29, and 35 were deemed irregular, inasmuch as the dates of re-
ception of petitions were not stated, and there had been hastiness in
conferring degrees.
Bro. Sweat offered the following, which was laid over one year:
"Resolved, That the constitution of the Grand Lodge be amended by adding
to the fourth article the following : ' And shall be a member of the Lodge he is
deputed to represent.' "
f, >Con
HISTOKY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS. 423
Bro. Sweat also offered the following, which was also laid over one
year :
"Resolved, That the eighth section of the by-laws be so amended as to read
after the words charity fund in the fourth line of the printed copy in proceed-
ings of 1815, ' the further sum of twenty-five cents annually for each member be-
longing to their Lodge at the time of making their annual returns, which shall
be set apart as a representative fund.'
"Resolved, That an additional section be added to the by-laws of this Grand
Lodge, which shall be as follows :
"SEC. 19. That each subordinate Lodge under the jurisdiction of this Gr and
Lodge, shall be entitled to one representative to the Grand Lodge, who shall be
paid out of the representative fund five cents for each mile's travel going to and
returning from the annual communication ; the mileage to be computed accord-
ing to the shortest traveling distance between the residence of the representa-
tive and the place of meeting of the Grand Lodge. "
On motion of Bro. Lusk,
" Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to inquire into the Masonic
standing of the Grand Lodge of Vermont."
Breth. Lusk (9), Davis (15), and Dills (1), were appointed said com-
mittee.
On motion of Bro. Davis, the report of the Committee on Foreign Cor-
respondence was adopted and ordered to be printed. Bro. Jonas was
requested to furnish a copy of his address delivered before the Grand
Lodge, as was the Grand Chaplain a copy of the prayer delivered by
him at the time of the installation.
The Grand Secretary was directed to have 350 copies of the proceed-
ings of the Grand Lodge published, and furnish each Lodge five copies,
each Grand Lodge one copy, and each officer of the Grand Lodge one
copy, and the remainder to be held for the use of the Grand Lodge.
Bro. Jonas submitted the following report on the Grand Master's ad-
dress :
" The committee to whom was referred the report of the M. W. Grand Master
on the first day of this communication, beg to report that they have examined
the same, and, from its contents, deem this a proper occasion to congratulate
the Grand Lodge on the prosperity and increased strength of the Masonic
family under its jurisdiction. In regard to the communication from Bro. Skin-
ner, the proxy of the Grand Master to the Grand Lodge of Missouri, containing
his communication to that Grand Lodge with the accompanying answer to the
same, your committee deem no action of this Grand Lodge to be at this time
necessary. The committee have read the letter from the Warsaw Lodge, ac-
companying the Grand Master's report. That Lodge surrenders its charter be-
cause there is no suitable room to hold their meetings in Warsaw. That Lodge,
however, does not forward to this Grand Lodge any account of its affairs and
condition, which is required.
" The committee have also examined that portion of the report which refers to
an application from G. C. Lanphere and others, belonging to a company of
mounted volunteers, who have gone to the Mexican war, in the service of the
United States. Your committee, waiving the question of right on the part of
424 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
this Grand Lodge to grant such a dispensation, think it unnecessary to comply
with the request of the petitioner?. In conclusion, your committee would re-
commend the adoption of the following resolutions :
"1st. Resolved, That no action is at present necessary on the subject con-
tained in the communication of Brother Skinner to the Grand Lodge of Missouri
and its answer thereto.
"2d. Resolved, That this Grand Lodge will receive the surrender of the char-
ter of Warsaw Lodge, whenever that Lodge shall forward to the Grand Secretary
a written statement of its condition and affairs.
"3d. Resolved, That it is inexpedient to grant the prayer of Brother Lanphere
and others, praying for a dispensation to a company of mounted volunteers.
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
" A. JONAS, 1
SAML. H. DAVIS, \-Committee."
M. TAYLOR. J
Bro. Cabanis moved to amend the third resolution by striking out all
after the word resolved, and inserting :
"That the 51. W. Grand Master be instructed to issue a dispensation for a
traveling Lodge in Mexico, according to the application of Brother Lanphere
and others."
Which, on motion of Bro. Jonas, was laid on the table, and the report
and resolutions were adopted.
On motion of Bro. Roe, the dues of Equality Lodge No. 2 were remit-
ted, in consequence of that Lodge being unable to meet and enjoy Ma-
sonic privileges during the past year, owing to the absence of her offi-
cers and the majority of her members in Mexico and elsewhere.
Bro. Davis offered a resolution, which was laid on the table, to the
effect that Masons uniting in a petition for a dispensation, thereby dis-
connected themselves with the Lodge to which they belonged, and when
such dispensation was received and accepted, the members to whom it
•was granted were to be considered as having withdrawn from the Lodge
or Lodges to which they belonged prior to the granting of the dispensa-
tion. Several bills and accounts having been presented and referred to
Breth. Davis (15), Anderson (9), and McMurtry (26), the Grand Lodge
was called off until 7 o'clock P. M.
WEDNESDAY EVENING, Oct. 6, 1847.
The Grand Lodge resumed labor at 7 o'clock. Several bills for crape,
stationery, printing, expenses of delegate to Missouri, music at installa-
tion, etc., were allowed.
Bro. Ketcham offered the following resolutions :
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 42&
" 3. Resolved, That the Most Worshipful Grand Master appoint a committee of
three to solicit donations of money and property, to be applied to the establish-
ment and endowment of the Institution aforesaid.
"4. Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed, with instructions to-
digest and arrange the necessary plans for such academy of learning.
"5. Resolved, That the Institution aforesaid, when organized, shall forever
remain under and subject to the control of this Grand Lodge, and shall be con-
ducted in strict accordance with the principles, customs, and constitutions of
Ancient Freemasonry.
The resolutions were adopted, and Breth. Ketcham (27), Jonas (39),
and Holton (39), were appointed as the committee.
Bro. Cabanis offered the following, which was adopted by a vote of
ayes and noes. Ayes, 17; noes, 11.
"Resolved, That the Most Worshipful Grand Master be authorized to grant
dispensations for traveling Lodges attached to the Illinois regiments in Mexico,
to work in the territory thereof, to any brethren qualified, who may be engaged
in the service of the United States in that country; provided they shall not
initiate, pass or raise, any persons but residents of the State of Illinois ; that
snch Lodges shall in all cases comply with the requisitions of the constitution
and by-laws of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, and shall return such dispensations
at the expiration of their term of service.
A resolution to allow an additional sum of $25 to Bro. Andrew, for at-
tendance upon Bro. Barney during his sickness at Peoria, was tabled.
The thanks of the Grand Lodge were, upon motion of Bro. Jonas, ten-
dered Past Grand Master Morse for the impartial, able, and dignified
manner in which he had presided over the Grand Lodge.
The Committee on Finance reported as follows :
" The Committee on Finance and Accounts report: That they have examined
the following accounts and bills presented, and recommend that they be allowed,
viz. :
To H. Dills, for expenses to Jacksonville $7 50
To Bartlett & Sullivan, for printing 2 50
To Louis Booth, " " 2 50
To C. M. Woods, " " 250
$15 00
That they have also examined the Grand Treasurer's account for the year
1847, and find the same correct, and a balance in his hands of the Grand Lodge
fund the sum of. $351 37
Of the Grand Charity fund, including a note of Bro. Chatterton, the sum
of 131 35
Total amount in Treasurer's hands $482 72
" That they have also examined the Grand Secretary's account for the same
year, and find the same correct, showing a balance in his hands of the sum
ol $546 50
—31
426 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"They further report that they have examined the account of the Grand
Secretary additional $21 10
Also to credit for 4 seals, which they find correct 8 00
Total $29 10
Also money received by him at this communication 24 00
Leaving to his credit, to be deducted out of said sum found in his hands, $5 10
Which, deducted from grand amount, leaves in Grand Secretary's hands
the sum of $541 40
"And the committee further beg leave to report : That they deem it quite
impracticable, in the short space of time allowed them, to examine the books
and papers of this Grand Lodge since its organization to the present time, and
ascertain with any degree of certainty the whole amount of funds received by
this Grand Lodge, from whom the several items of the same were received,
with the several amounts thereof, and the disbursements of said fund, with the
several items thereof, so as to render a full account of receipts and disburse-
ments of said fund up to the present time. The committee can not attribute
fault to any officer having the conduct of the financial affairs of this Lodge at
any time heretofore, or to any officer whose office has expired at this commu-
nication; but, on the contrary, attribute the difficulty wholly to lapse of time,
the frequent change of officers and the present confused condition of the books
and papers of said Lodge for the several first years of its existence.
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
"JOSEPH C. KETCHAM.l
CHAS. HOWARD, \ Committee."
O. C. SKINNER. J
Breth. Bailhache (27), Happy (3), and Davis (15), were elected Trus-
tees of the Grand Lodge, according to the act of incorporation.
On motion of Bro. Mitchell,
"Resolved, That the Most Worshipful Grand Master be authorized, if neces-
sary, to require the attention of the Trustees to such business as he may think
proper, and which may come within their jurisdiction during the ensuing year,
unless otherwise provided by the Grand Lodge."
Bro. Dills offered the following :
"Resolved, That this Grand Lodge will hereafter allow no bills for music at its
public processions, nor for advertising its meetings, nor for any other printing
connected therewith, than handbills announcing its order of exercises.
On motion, the resolution was laid on the table.
Past Grand Secretary Lusk was allowed one hundred dollars for his
services as Grand Secretary.
The dispensation for St. John's Lodge (Woodstock) was continued
until the next communication.
Bro. Brewer offered a resolution to the effect that the Grand Lodge
inquire into the expediency of apppropriating a certain sum to defray
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 427
the expenses of, and compensate a Grand Lecturer, whose duty it should
be to visit the Lodges and establish a uniform mode of working. The
resolution was laid on the table.
The communication from Mt. Vernon Lodge No. 31, in relation to the
trial of Entered Apprentices and Fellow Crafts, was referred to Past
Grand Masters Lusk, Jonas, and Morse, they to report at the next m acting
of the Grand Lodge.
Bro. McMurtry offered a resolution directing the subordinate Lodges
to vote for some place as the permanent location of the Grand Lodge, the
place obtaining the largest number of votes to be considered as the per-
manent location of the Grand Lodge. Which was laid on the table.
Bro. Davis reported on behalf of a special committee appointed to
«xamine various Masonic publications, forwarded to the Grand Lodge
with a view to sale, that the books were in the hall, subject to the
examination of the brethren themselves, and asked to be discharged,
which was done.
Bro. Crandall offered the following, which was adopted:
" WHEREAS, A diversity of opinion exists among subordinate Lodges as to the
duty of the Wardens in the absence of the Master of the Lodge, many believing
that they have all the powers which the Master should of right exercise, and
others believing that a Warden can only preside during the absence of the Master,
but with no authority to confer degrees without he should also be a Past Master;
and as the opinion of the Grand Lodge is desired on the subject; therefore,
"Resolved, That a Warden during the absence of the Master may preside, but
that he has no power to confer the degrees, without he is also a Past Master."
On motion of Bro. Cabanis,
"Resolved, That the chairman of the Committee on Education be allowed the
use of any books or papers in the possession of this Grand Lodge, provided the
same are not wanted by the Grand Secretary in the discharge of his duty, and
that they be returned at the next meeting of the Grand Lodge."
Breth. Mitchell (15), Davis (15), and Anderson (9), were appointed
Committee on Correspondence.
Bro. Skinner offered the following :
"Resolved, That the Grand Lodge recommend to the following Lodges that they
pay Bro. Jackson $10, for his services in lecturing at each of said Lodges, in
addition to the amount before paid him by them respectively, the same being
necessary, as appears to this Grand Lodge, to a suitable remuneration to Bro.
Jackson for his services rendered."
Which was decided by the chair to be out of order, and not admissible.
Whereupon, Bro. Skinner took an appeal from the decision, and the
Grand Lodge sustained the chair.
Bro. Roe offered the following resolution :
"Reaolveil, That it is the sense of this Grand Lodge that Past Grand Lecturer
Bro. Jackson is entitled to further remuneration for his services for the past
.year.
428
HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
To which Bro. Happy moved the following amendment, which was
accepted by the mover of the resolution : "And that the Lodges which
received said services are morally bound to pay for the same."
Whereupon, the resolution as amended was adopted.
The Committee on Finance reported as follows :
" The Committee on Finance and Accounts report that they have examined
the accounts of the late Grand Secretary, and present the following statement
furnished by him, and which they find correct :
" Levi Lusk, Secretary, <tc, in account with
the Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois. Dr.
" To amount in tf rand Secretary's hands per last report $ 51 44
To amount received since last report, as follows :
Grand Lodge dues 239 00
Grand charity fund 229 25
Dispensations 97 25
Charters 7 00
To amount overpaid by Temperance Lodge No. 16 4 00
" $627 94
Cr.
"Oct. 20th, 1846, by cash paid Grand Treasurer S 20 00
June 10th, 1847, by cash paid Grand Treasurer 10 00
Oct. 5th, 1847, by balance on hand per last report, paid Grand Treasurer.. 51 44
Amount to balance 516 50
$027 94
• FROM CHARTERS AND DISPENSATIONS.
Charters.
Liispensa-
tions.
Total.
Unity U D
$15 00
$15 00
Griggsville U. D
15 00
15 00
Hardin Mt Sterling U D
15 00
15 00
Hardin Nashville U D
15 00
15 00
15 00
15 00
7 00
15 00
22 (>0
St John's U D ~
7 25
7 25
$7 00
$97 25
$104 25
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
LEVI LUSK, Secretary, &c., in account with
the Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois.
Dr.
Lodges.
No. of
m'mb'rs
Grand L.
dues.
Grand
Charity
Fund.
Total.
1846.
18
22
14
8
28
25
40
45
24
36
36
25
42
8
63
18
21
20
55
*9
23
28
28
28
18
27
31
24
32
19
13
14
13
18
$5 00
5 50
3 50
5 00
8 50
6 25
10 00
11 25
6 00
9 00
9 00
6 25
10 50
2 00
15 75
4 50
5 25
5 00
13 75
5 50
5 75
7 00
7 00
7 00
4 00
6 75
7 75
6 00
8 00
5 00
5 00
5 00
5 00
5 00
2 25
5 00
$4 50
5 50
3 50
2 00
8 50
6 25
10 00
11 25
6 00
9 00
9 00
6 25
10 50
2 00
15 75
4 50
5 25
5 00
13 75
5 50
5 75
7 00
7 00
7 00
4 00
6 75
7 75
6 00
8 00
4 75
3 25
3 50
3 25
4 50
2 25
4 50
$13 50
11 OD
7 00
7 00
17 00
12 50
20 00
22 50
12 00
18 CH)
18 00
12 50
21 00
4 00
31 50
9 00
10 50
10 00
27 50
11 00
11 50
14 00
14 (K)
14 00
8 00
13 50
15 50
12 00
10 00
9 75
8 25
8 50
8 25
9 50
4 50
9 50
1817.
St John's No 13
Lafayette No 18
Clinton No 19
Pia^a No 27
Olive Branch No 38
Unity U D
Temple U D
Hardin U D
To receipts for charters and dispenpati
To amount in Grand Secretary's hands
P0=\
$239 00 i$229 25
$576 50
104 25
51 44
per last report (see pro. '46,
$627 94
Amount in Grand Secretary's hands October 6, 1817, $546 50
" On motion, the report was accepted and the committee discharged."
Bro. Anderson offered the following resolution, which, on motion of
Bro. Cabanis, was laid on the table :
"Resolveri, That this Grand Lodge deem it inexpedient to appropriate any of
of its funds for the compensation of a Grand Lecturer, and that he is only re-
quired to render services to such Lodges as shall satisfy him for the same."
On motion of Bro. Cabanis, it was
430 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"Resolved, That the thanks of this Grand Lodge be tendered to Past Grand
Master Jonas, for his able, instructive, and eloquent address, delivered before
the members of this Grand Lodge."
The Grand Lodge was then closed.
BODLEY LODGE NO. 1.
The following raisings for 1847 are reported : Michael McVay, Jan.
4 ; Richard Adair and Harvey Shaw, Oct. 7 ; Charles A. Warren, Dec. 21.
" Jan. 25, the reading of the proceedings of the Grand Lodge of Illi-
nois was interrupted by the brethren from Hannibal, who appeared as-
a committee from the citizens of that city, asking for our influence with
the Grand Lodge of Missouri, that it might, in the re-location of the
Masonic College of Missouri, place it in such a situation as to secure the
aid and countenance of the brethren of Illinois in its support."
The matter was referred to a "general meeting of the Masons of the
city," to he held the next day, 10 o'clock A. M. There is nothing on
the record to indicate that such a meeting was held.
July 12, the Lodge received an invitation from Harmony Lodge No. 3,
to be present and assist in the funeral ceremonies over the remains of
Colonel John J. Hardin.
Dec. 24, elections as follows : John Crockett, W. M.; Enoch Conyers,
S. W.; Harrison Dills, J. W.; Q. S. Barton, Treas.; J. H. Luce, Sec. Dec.
27, the following appointments were made : F. G. Johnston, S. D.; H.
L. Simmons, J. D.; T. Monroe, Tyler. The officers were installed by
Bro. Lusk.
EQUALITY LODGE NO. 2.
This Lodge held no meetings during the year 1847.
HARMONY LODGE NO. 3.
The raisings reported by this Lodge during 1847 are as follows: Ed-
ward Lambert, Jan. 2; Stephen Sutton, March 11; Sam. Beard, March
18 ; Anderson Foreman, April 8 ; J. Leland Miller, May 4 ; Henry Du-
senbury, May 6; Richard Yates, May 26; Jeremiah McKay, June 11 ;
Thomas Hewitt, Jr., June 16 ; Benj. Fyatt, Aug. 13; Nathaniel English,
Nov. 9.
May 1, The Lodge directed the Secretary to subscribe for the "Ma-
sonic Mirror," " Boston Freemason's Monthly Magazine," and the " Ma-
sonic Register."
April 2, the Lodge was called together, to take action upon the infor-
mation received of the death of Colonel John J. Hardin, " who departed
this life, on the field of battle, near Saltillo, in Mexico." Appropriate
resolutions were passed.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 431
June 20, Breth. Heslep, Swett, and A. Dunlap were added to a com-
mittee appointed at a previous meeting, to make arrangements for the
reception of the body of Col. Hardin ; and on the 8th of May. the commit-
tee was invested with discretionary powers, as to the necessary arrange-
ments. July 10, Breth. Swett, W. S. Hurst, J. M. Lucas, Gregory, and
Coffman, were appointed a committee to receive and provide for the
entertainment of brethren attending the funeral of Col. Hardin. The
regalia adopted by the Lodge for use on that occasion was " white aprons,
trimmed with blue, and blue sashes.
The record of July 13, shows that Bro. " Thos. H. Campbell and others
of Springfield Lodge No. 4, and others from various Lodges" were pres-
ent as visitors. There being no business to transact, the Lodge was called
off until 9 o'clock, July 14, to attend the funeral of Bro. Hardin.
Of the ceremonies of the day, no mention whatever is made, and as
far as the testimony of the record is concerned, no such funeral was ever
had. It is much to be regretted that an ample record of that day was
not kept.
Sept. 21, the petition of sundry brethren for a new Lodge at Carrollton,
was recommended.
Dec. 27, the following officers were elected: William B. Warren, W.
M.; W. C. Swett, S. W.; W. W. Happy, J. W.; J. Heslep, Treas.; A. C.
Dickson, Sec. James Hurst, S. D.; M. H. Cassell, J. D.; Jeremiah Mc-
Kay, Tyler.
SPRINGFIELD LODGE NO. 4.
This Lodge raised the following brethren during 1847: James W.
Keys, Phares A. Dorwin, and Albert Munsell, Jan. 22 ; Mason Brayman
and Vincent Ridgely, Jan. 29 ; M. F. Wickersham and N. W. Larrimore,
Feb. 15; A. Wood, June 7; William Wright, June 24; John G. Ives,
July 1 ; T. G. C. Davis, July 6; Isaac Stout and S. R. Baker, Nov. 1.
Feb. 22 was celebrated by the Lodge, a procession being formed,
which proceeded to the First Presbyterian Church, where an oration was
delivered by Bro. James II. Matheny.
March 18, Bro. James Zwisler, who departed this life on Wednesday,
March 17, was buried with Masonic honors.
March 29, the Lodge was called together to take action regarding the
death of Bro. Edmund Jones, who had requested to be buried by the
Lodge, but consent being withheld by the family of the deceased, the
' request was not complied with.
June 7, the Lodge being notified of the sickness of Bro. Barney, at
Peoria, a committee was appointed to forward to him such pecuniary
assistance as might be necessary. Aug. 23, Bro. Edmund Frazer, the
Secretary, resigned, and on 28th Aug. J. N. Larrimore was elected to
432 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS
fill the vacancy. Oct. 18, Bro. Lavely informed the Lodge of his elec-
tion as Grand Master, and resigned his office as Master, when Bro.
William A. Dickey was elected for the unexpired term.
Dec. 27, the following officers were elected: William A. Dickey,
W. M.; John Uhler, S. W.; James W. Keys, J. W.; William Lavely,
Treas.; Vincent Ridgely, Sec.; Mason Brayman, Chaplain; Balsar
Iliki, Tyler.
COLUMBUS LODGE NO. 6.
This Lodge surrendered its charter at the communication of the Grand
Lodge in 1847, since which time the No. 6 has remained vacant upon
the register of the Grand Lodge.
FRIENDSHIP LODGE NO. 7.
Two brethren were raised by this Lodge in the year 1847, viz.: L. H.
McKenny, Feb. 2 ; Abram Courtright, April 17.
No meetings were held by this Lodge between the 13th July, 1846,
and Feb. 2, 1847. No meeting was held in May, and on the 24th June
it was ordered that any brother living within one mile of the lodge-
room who failed to attend the regular meetings of the Lodge, should be
fined 25 cents, unless excused by the Lodge. The record of this meet-
ing also shows that the following brethren, being previously elected,
were installed in office in the usual form: J. B. Nash, W. M.; James
Campbell, S. W.; Horace Preston, J. W.; D. B. McKenney, Treas.; R. B.
Loveland, Sec.; C. T. Chase, S. D.; I. Means, J. D.; A. L. Bull, Tyler.
No record of the election appears. No meetings were held from June
24 until Oct. 21.
MACON LODGE NO. 8.
Four raisings during 1847 were reported by this Lodge, viz.: N. P.
West, March 27; William Marquiss, Oct. 23; Samuel Bender, Dec. 19;
S. K. Herald, Dec. 27.
Aug. 26, the Lodge was opened by Carding Jackson, and the E. A.
degree conferred by him upon S. K. Herald.
Sept. 27, the Tyler having been removed from office, Bro. Henry
Hummel was elected for the unexpired term, which position he occupies
at the present time.
The delegate to the Grand Lodge was directed to vote, for the place of
holding the Grand Lodge, first for Decatur, second, Springfield, third,
Peoria, fourth, Bloomington, and fifth, Charleston.
Nov. 22, an election, resulting as follows, was had : H. J. Armstrong,
W. M.; J. R. Gorin, S. W.; J. Y. Braden, J. W.; Isaac C. Pugh, Treas.;
N. P. West, Sec.; Henry Hummel, Steward and Tyler.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 438
RUSHVILLE LODGE NO. 9.
The return of this Lodge to the Grand Lodge for 1847 is as follows :
" Officers. — James L. Anderson, W. M.; Lewis Robertson, S. W.; Mar-
tin L. Reid, J. W.; James McCrosky, Treas.; John C. Bagby, Sec.; Samuel
McCreary, S. D.; Barclay C. Gillam, J. D.; David Martin, Steward and
Tyler.
" Past Masters. — Levi Lusk, William A. Richardson, Columbus E.
Cook, James L. Anderson, Hart Fellows, John Todhunter.
" Master Masons. — Thos. J. Garrett, Josiah Parrott, Andrew Lacroix,
Louis Horton, Adams Dunlap, Daniel B. Smith, W. A. B. McCuistion,
Thomas P. Parrott, William Edgar, Peter C. Vance, William Davis,
Rensselaer Wells, George B. Rogers, William Cliff, John B. Seely, Jacob
O. Jones, James B. Wright, James H. Chick, Abraham Tolles, Benjamin
F. Wyne, Marshall Smith, Richard Stevenson, John Blackford.
" Fellow Crafts. — Joseph Montgomery, B. S. C. Town, Isaac Greer,
William H. Crawford.
<' Entered Apprentices. — Tidence W. Lane, Irwin Lamaster, William
Easley, John Jamieson, Samuel Bard.
" Initiated. — Thomas P. Parrott, Jacob 0. Jones, John Jamieson, Rev.
Samuel Bard, Rev. W. A. B. McCuistion.
" Passed. — Thomas P. Parrott, Jacob 0. Jones, Richard Stevenson,
B. S. C. Town, Rev. W. A. B. McCuistion.
" Raised. — Richard Stevenson, Thomas P. Parrott, Jacob 0. Jones, Rev.
W. A. B. McCuistion.
" Demitted. — Andrew Lacroix, William Claughbaugh, John S. Bailey."
ST. JOHN'S LODGE NO. 13.
Raisings as follows during the year 1847 :
H. W. Baker, Feb. 11 ; Mott, Feb. 25; James Mullen, March 11 :
William Chumansero, April 29; David Perry, May 27; E. Davis, June
12; Isaac D. Harmon, June 14; Frederick S. Day, July 12; Isaac B.
Boyle, Oct. 7; H. S. Beebe, Nov. 4; W. H. Davis, Eugene M. Cheney,
Dec. 9. Feb. 11, Carding Jackson presided and conferred the third de-
gree upon H. W. Baker. He was again present on the 17th March, and
conferred the first and second degrees upon David Perry and William
Chumansero.
June 10, the Lodge proceeded to an election of officers for the ensuing
twelve months. Bro. T. J. Wade was elected W. M., and George W.
Gilson, S. W., when the election of the remaining officers was postponed
one week. June 17, the election was resumed, when Breth. William
Chumansero was elected J. W.; William Paul, Treas.; Warren Brown,
Sec.
434 HTSTOKY OF MASONKY IX ILLINOIS.
WARREN LODGE NO. 14.
This Lodge conferred the Master's degree upon seven brethren during-
the year 1847, viz.: Adam Baker, Jan. 16 ; Thos. S. Wiles, Feb. 6 ; Peter
Baker, April 26; "W. A. Redman, May 14; Geo. C. Yost, May 15; J. J.
Hayden, Oct. 30; Milton Bartley, Nov. 27.
Feb. 6, the Lodge passed the following :
"Resolved,1 That all Masons in good standing who have acted as faithful Lodge
members for 15 years or more, shall be permitted to remain such without being-
subject to dues."
Sept. 25, the delegate to the Grand Lodge was directed to vote for
Jacksonville as the place of holding the next meeting of the Grand
Lodge, and was further instructed to vote that the Grand Lodge pay the
mileage of delegates.
The following officers were elected Dec. 27: J. E. Reardon, "W. M.;
E. J. Nicholson, S. W. and Steward ; J. J. Hayden, J. W.; R. H. Marron,
Treas.; W. A. Redman, Sec.; A. R. Stout, S. D. and Steward; Peter Ba-
ker, J. D.; M. Bartley, Tyler.
PEORIA LODGE NO. 15.
Breth. Thomas Wren, March 29 ; Frederick Lang and John C. Wag-
ner, April 29; John Stable, May 6; F. W. A. Shultz, May 29 ; John T.
Spellman, July 1 ; Charles Kittelle, Oct. 23; were raised by No. 15 du-
ring the year 1847.
Jan. 13, a petition, signed by John Foster, Elijah De Pew, Andrew-
Johnston, Moses Baldwin, H. J. Short, Joseph Mitchell, Eli N. Powell ,
William Tapley, and Owen Cherry, residents of Bloomington, for a new
Lodge at that place, was recommended.
March 27, Breth. William Mitchell, Peter Sweat, and Wm. E. Mason,
were elected trustees of the Lodge under an act of incorporation granted
by the Legislature. April 29, Bro. T. J. Pickett was appointed S. D. in
place of Bro. Gill, who had removed from the town. May 29, Bro. Bar-
ney was reported as lying quite sick at the Planter's House, where-
upon the Lodge made an appropriation to provide for all that might be
found necessary. May 29, Bro. J. D. Caton, of No. 40, presided over the
Lodge, and raised Bro. Schultz — Burton C. Cook, of same Lodge, acting
as S. D.
June 21, the Lodge resolved to attend the celebration of St. John's
Day, at Pekin, and the committee appointed reported the engagement
of the steamer Simon Kenton. Preceding the record of June 24, we find
the following, in the hand-writing of Bro. Samuel H. Davis:
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 435
" NOTES.
" M. W. John Barney, P. G. Lecturer of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, died at
the Planters' House, on the 22d inst., and was buried with the usual formalities, in
the cemetery of this Lodge."
His remains are still there.
"The celebration of the 24th at Pekin was numerously attended, and passed
off in the happiest manner. The concourse of people is said to have been greater
than was ever before assembled in that place."
Dec. 27, the following officers were elected : Thomas J. Pickett, W.
M., by a vote of 17 to 2; John E. Carter, S. W., by a vote of 13 to 9;
Charles R. Hall, J. W., by a vote of 21 to 1 ; Wm. E. Mason, Treas.,
unanimously ; Charles Kettelle, Sec., by a vote of 21 to 1 ; N. P. Heath,
Chaplain, 21 to 1; William Widenham, Tyler, 21 to 1; Thomas Wren
and William Dunn were appointed Deacons.
TEMPERANCE LODGE NO. 16.
This Lodge did no work during 1847.
Nov. 21, Bro. Moses Phillips, Tyler, was buried by the Lodge. Bro.
Phillips was one of the members of Temperance Lodge under dispensa-
tion, and his name appears on the record of January 10, 1839, the first
meeting of the present Lodge, as "Junior Deacon and Tyler p. t." He
served the Lodge as Tyler from that time, with the exception of a term
of six months, until the day of his death.
MACOMB LODGE NO. 17.
It will be remembered that on the 3d October, 1846, this Lodge sur-
rendered its charter. The Grand Lodge, at its session in 1847, gave the
Lodge permission to rescind the resolution, which was done on the 20th
November, 1847.
Dec. 19, the remains of Bro. Nelson Montgomery were buried with
Masonic honors.
Dec. 27, the following officers were elected : J. E. Wyne, W. M.; W.
T. Head, S. W.: William Ervin, Treas.; J. M. Campbell, Sec.; R. Nay-
lor, Tyler. No Junior Warden (according to the record) was elected.
LAFAYETTE LODGE NO. 18.
" Officers.— M. Taylor, W. M.; Charles G. Wicker, S. W.; J. C. Miller,
J. W.; H. W. Bigelow, Treas.; A. Kohn, Sec.; Thomas Brooks, S. D.;
Philip Newburgh, J. D.; J. L. Thompson, Tyler.
" Past Masters. — Henry Brown, Carding Jackson, R. J. Hamilton.
"Master Masons. — Henry Brown, Carding Jackson, R. J.Hamilton,
William Harmon, I. N. Arnold, John Davis, Scott Benedik, V. H. Eachus,
James Averill, D. S. Cady, Leonard Falsh, Heman Hatch, Solomon Kel-
436 HISTOEY OF MASONEY IN ILLINOIS.
logg, J. Y. Sanger, W. H. Wells, G. B. Fearing, B. Neichman, A. Garret,
John Pfund, F. Burckey, Francis Edwards, James Campbell, W. B.
Snowbook, A. Getzler, I. P. Hatfield, B. Horton, II. L. Stewart, Geo.
Cbacksfield, Jobn B. Weir, Joseph Goodrich, J. J. Jackson, Jacob Rosen-
baum, J. L. Howe, J. H. Sullivan, W. Jackson, Frederick Weis, William
Locke, S. J. Surdam, S. J. Lowe, Jacob Rosenberg, James McGuire, F. A.
Howe, N. Christy, J. M. Lowe, Theodore Hubbard, Martin Dodge, Sam'l
McKay, N. F. Butler, F. W. Potter, J. A. W. Donihoo, L. C. Eercheval,
James McCord, J. J. Huntley, Levi Rosenfeld, J. D. Jennings.
" Fellow Crafts.— J. W. Kaft, C. P. Albee, Charles V. Dodge.
"Entered Apprentices. — Benjamin Johnson, Jacob Gauch, Jr.
" Raised. — Joseph Goodrich, Theodore Hubbard, John B. Weir, Solo-
mon Kellogg, W. F. Torrence, Fred. Burckey.
"Admitted. — V. W. Potter, from Peoria Lodge No. 15; James McCord,
from Glasgow, Scotland.
" Lemitted.—E. Castle, W. F. Torrence.
CLINTON LODGE NO. 19.
The return of No. 19 to the Grand Lodge for 1847, is as follows : " Sam'l
Smith, W. M.; M. S. Morris, S. W.; James Short, J. W.; Chas. G. Brooks,
Treas.; A. D. Wright, Sec.; WTilliam Ferris, S. D.; Aaron B. White, J. D.;
Henry Shepherd, Tyler.
"Past Masters. — John Bennett, David MeMur.phy, Thos. L. Harris.
" Master Masons. — Jacob West, John B. Broadwell, Nathan West, Chas.
B. Waldo, A. A. Rankin, John Allen, Robert C. Scott, Dudley Gresham,
H. D. Dorand, Alex. F. Raney.
" Raised.— H. D. Dorand, Alex. F. Raney.
HANCOCK LODGE NO. 20.
This Lodge made no return in 1847.
WARSAW LODGE NO. 21.
This Lodge held but one meeting in 1847, at which meeting it was re-
solved to surrender the charter of the Lodge. The action taken at the
time, is presented in the address of Grand Master Morse to the Grand
Lodge at the session of 1847, to which the reader is referred.
CASS LODGE NO. 23.
This Lodge made no return to the Grand Lodge for 1847.
ST. CLAIR LODGE NO. 24.
No meetings were held by this Lodge from January 26 to July 28, and
no meetings from the latter date to the 21st December. No work was
•done during the year.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 437
FRANKLIN LODGE NO. 25.
The return of this Lodge to the Grand Lodge for 1847, is as follows : .
" Officers. — Rev. Charles Howard, W. M.; Harvey S. Summers, S. W.;
Daniel M. Kittinger, J. W.; George Lebold, Treas.; John A. Maxey, Sec.;
Henry Stoecle, S. D.; George Willis, J. D ; William Kersey, Tyler.
"Past Master. — Rev. Charles Howard.
" Master Masons. — Elias Hibbard, Eliakim Thorp, William Lowe, Jr.,
John Bostwick, Luther W. Lyon, George R. Stocker, James L. Burns,
John B. Smith, Andrew M. Englis, Thomas S. Buck, Daniel F. Wemlal],
Jacob Rader, Elihu Pembroke.
" Entered Apprentices. — James M. Finley, William Hall.
''Initiated. — John B. Smith, George R. Stocker, James L. Burns, An-
drew M. Englis, Thomas S. Buck, James M. Finley, William Hall.
" Passed. — Thomas S. Buck, Andrew M. Englis, John B. Smith, George
R. Stocker, James L. Burns.
"Raised. — James B. Smith, Andrew M. Englis, George R. Stocker,
James L. Burns.
" Demitted.— William H. Blanford.
" Died. — Peter Merrill."
Ill RAM LODGE NO. 26.
Jan. 15, the following election took place: N. D. Morse, W. M.; Win.
McMurtry, S. W.; Samuel G. Dean, J. W.; J. J. Jackson, Treas.; Caleb
Finch, Sec.; J. J. Hedstrom, Chaplain ; Thos. Champion, Tyler. No
work was done during the year.
PIASA LODGE NO. 27.
The raisings during 1847, by this Lodge, were as follows; David W.
Aldrich, Jan. 5; Edward J. Harper, Jan. 9 ; Peter Deleplaine, Feb. 10 ;
Samuel Cohen, Feb. 23 ; George 0. Atherton, May 1 ; James W. Smith,
May 21; J. R. Hugunin, June 2; E. Lamaster, June 22; H. S. Fitch,
July 17; James Collins, Aug. 3; John Bonney, Aug. 4; Willis G.Ed-
wards, Aug. 5 ; Willis B. Holden, M. Jenkins, and J. M. Moore, Aug. Sf
T. G. Coffey and Calme L. White, Aug. 9 ; John H. Hart, Aug. 13; An-
drew Runze, Sept. 6 ; Lewis B. Parsons, Sept. 17; T. L. Loomis, Oct. 17;
J. L. Blair and Benj. Z. Riley, Nov. 1; B. F. Sargeant, Nov. 18; S. C.
Jett, Nov. 20.
March 27, the Lodge having received the news of the battle fought in
Mexico, near Saltillo (Buena Vista), and that many worthy brethren
had fallen therein, closed the Lodge without transacting business.
April 2, the Lodge having received the news of the death of Colonel
John J. Ilardin and Edward F. Fletcher — Col. Hardin of the First Regi
438 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
ment, and Bro. Fletcher, Lieutenant of the " Alton Volunteer Guards," of
the Second Kegiment — both of whom " bravely fell at the head of their
gallant commands in the glorious but sanguinary battle of Buena Vista,
on the 23d of February, A. D. 1847, passed resolutions appropriate to the
occasion. Resolutions of sympathy in the sufferings of Capt. Baker and
Lieut. Prickett, who were wounded in that action, were also passed.
Dec. 21, the following officers were elected : Geo. T. Brown, W. M.; E.
J. Harper, S. W.: P. Deleplaine, J. W.: B. F. Sargeant, Sec.; S. R. Dolbee,
Treas.; B. A. Carpenter, Tyler.
MONROE LODGE NO. 28.
The following named brethren were raised during 1847 : E. Axley,
Feb. 27 ; John M. "Wooters, March 6.
Feb. 27, John Barney presided over the Lodge, and conferred the sec-
ond degree upon J. M. Wooters; the third upon E. Axley.
May 29, officers as follows were elected: John Colman, W. M.; Elam
Rust, S. W.; Bradley Rust, J. W.; John A. Reed, Treas.; Daniel Con-
verse, Sec.; James Axley, S. D.; Wm. Cowell, J. D.; Charles H. Prusker,
Tyler.
Sept. 18, the Secretary was instructed to prepare the returns to the
Grand Lodge, and to request the Grand Secretary to act as the represen-
tative of the Lodge, and as such, to vote for the location of the Grand
Lodge as far south as Alton, " or for the institution of a chapter at that
place [Alton], for the benefit of the Fraternity in the southern part of
the State."
Dec. 17, the Lodge was informed of the death of Bro. Thomas James,
when the customary resolutions were passed. At this meeting Bro. Col-
man, W. M., resigned his office, " whereupon Bro. E. P. Rogers was
unanimously elected Master of this Lodge."
PEKIN LODGE NO. 29.
This Lodge made return as follows for 1847:
" Oncers.— Webb C. Quigley, W. M.; Middleton Tackaberry, S. W.;
Abraham Woolston, J. W.; Abraham Wools ton, Chaplain ; David Bailey,
Treas.; Theodore A. Walker, Sec.; Benjamin S. Prettyman,S. D.; Rich'd
H. Snell, J. D.; David Corwin, Tyler.
" Past Master. — William H. Holmes.
"Master Masons. — Joseph S. Maus, Peleg Hebbard, Daniel Taney,
William Wilkey, Wm. B. Doolittle, Turner R. King, Samuel S. Porter,
John G. Lenhart, Samuel P. Bailey, Peter A. Brower, Samuel Mayers,
Irwin B. Doolittle, Lorenzo D. Hamilton, Drury B. Perkins.
"Fellow Crafts. — John Fillikin, Joel E. Jones.
" Entered Apprentices. — Solomon Kahn, Anson G. Henry, Austin E.
Burns, John II. Morrison, Rev. W. West.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 439
" Raised. — Bernard Bailey, Drury B. Perkins, Martin H. Kendig.
" Demitted. — John R. Crandall, Matthias J. App, Martin H. Keiidig,
Henry Tew, Walden Porter, John Mayers, Bernard Bailey.
"Suspended. — William Shannon, for non-payment of dues.
" Re-instated. — John Mayers.
MORNING STAR LODGE NO. SO.
The return of No. 30 to the Grand Lodge for 1847, is as follows :
" Officers. — Adam Brewer, W. M.,- Franklin Foster, S. W.; Isaac N.
Aldrich, J. W.; Nathaniel B. Childs, Treas.; Thomas J. Little, Sec.; D. M.
Smith, S. D.; Hugh Martin, J. D.; Jonas Raywalt, Steward]; William B.
S niilie, Tyler.
" Past Masters. — Isaiah Stillmau, David M. Smith.
" Master Masons. — James II. Stipp, T. Maple, P. L. Snyder, John Sny-
der, W. D. Johnson, E. W. Resor, John G. Graham, W. C. Worley, John
Williamson, Samuel Christy, Harvey Smith, G. H. Hickman, Thomas
Cheney, James Kuykendal, Daniel H. Dewey, Henry Clark, C. W. Rock-
hold, John J. Lunn.
" Fellow Crafts. — John F. Smith, J. M. Wilson, A. W. Innman.
"Entered Apprentices.— S. H. Pitkin, M. B. Mason, H. B. Evans, B. F.
Ruble.
" Raised.— W. C. Worley, J. N. Aldrich, L. Whorley, W. B. Smilie,
John J. Lynn, W. D. Johnson, Hugh Martin, Jonas Raywalt.
" Demitted. — D. W. Barnes, James Brace, Jason M. Bass, David Sugle,
A. R. Sparks, J. Budd, John Thatcher, W. Tyler.
MT. VERNON LODGE NO. 31.
The raisings by No. 31 during 1847, are as follows: John L. McBride,
Jan. 23, Gabriel S. Jones, June 28; Hiram R. Casey, Aug. 4.
Jan. 4, the Lodge resolved to attend " the funeral rites of our late and
much esteemed brother, James W. Hare," on the third Sabbath " in
March next." Rev. John Van Cleve was requested to deliver a sermon
on that occasion. The record does not show that the Lodge complied
with its resolution of January 4.
June 24, an election was had, resulting as follows: Downing Baugh,
W. M.; William H. Short, S. W.; Geo. Mills, J. W.; Daniel Kinney,
Treas.; Joel F. Watson, Sec.; James De Coursey, Tyler.
July 5, Breth. W. W. Bennett, R. F. Wingate, John L. McBride, F. H.
Edwards, T. S. Roe, G. S. Jones, and A. D. Hay were demitted, in order
to form a new Lodge at Nashville, their petition for the same being re-
commended by the Lodge. Aug. 2, Bro. Bennett charged a certain mem-
ber of the Lodge with having been expelled by the Lodge from which he
hailed, in Tennessee, and, on the 16th of August, having confessed the
truth of the charge, he was again expelled.
440 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
Nov. 19, the Lodge buried Bro. John Ewing, they going to Benton for
the purpose.
APOLLO LODGE NO. 32.
This Lodge made no returns to the Grand Lodge for 1847. There are
no papers relating to the Lodge in the office of the Grand Secretary, nor
can the records be found. This Lodge was consolidated with Oriental
No. 33, sometime during the year 1847, the exact date of which is not
known. The No. 32 has been vacant on the register of the Grand Lodge
since 1847.
ORIENTAL LODGE NO. 33.
Raisings during 1847, as follows: G. W. Mower, Jan. 2; Douglas-
Boyd, March 22; P. Ballingall, March 26.
Jan. 25, Bro. W. S. Brown requested a demit, as he had become the
Grand Lecturer of the Grand Lodge of Michigan. April 26, a committee
consisting of Breth. Blaney, Geo. Davis, and Schlatter, was appointed
to confer with a like committee from Apollo Lodge, for the purpose of
consolidating the two Lodges, and on May 26 this committee reported
favorably as to the project. June 28, petitions for affiliation from twenty
members of Apollo Lodge, were received and referred. At this meet-
ing, Bro. Isaac P. Hatfield was, by resolution, declared "expelled," he
having been (according to the record) expelled by Apollo Encampment.
It will be remembered that the Grand Lodge decided that in this case
the rule did not work both ways. It might work upwards, but it can not
work downwards. The body above, so to speak, is aware of the body
below, but the body below has no official knowledge of the one above.
July 26, the record would have us to understand that the committee
on the consolidation of Apollo and Oriental Lodges made a " final report
as follows :" but in this instance proof is wanting that such a report
is made, as the remainder of the page is a perfect blank. We are of the
opinion that the present Secretary of No. 33 can not be caught up in any
such way.
Dec. 17, the Lodge received a communication from " Apollo Encamp-
ment," to the effect that I. P. Hatfield was not expelled from that body,
whereupon the resolution expelling Bro. H. from the Lodge was ordered
expunged. The Lodge then went into a committee of the whole, for the
election of officers, Carding Jackson presiding. The election resulted as
follows : Geo. Davis, W. M.; W. H. Davis, S. W.; J. A. Reichart, J. W.;
J. V. Z. Blaney, Treas.; L. P. Hilliard, Sec.; R. V. M. Croes, S. D.;
" Rev. Bro. Mitchell," Chaplain; J. H. Pahlman, John Daly, and S. W.
Sherman, Stewards; J. L. Thompson, Tyler.
HISTOKY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS. 441
BARRY LODGE NO. 34.
This Lodge made the following return to the Grand Lodge for 1847 r
" Officers.— George Wike, W. M.; John P. Grubb, S. W.; Lewis Angle,
J. W.; Wesley I. Alkire, Treas.; John Watson, Sec.; David I. Wike, S. D.;
Bridge Whetten, J. D.: J. 1ST. Love, Tyler.
" Past Masters. — Michael Gard, George Wike.
" Master Masons.— Joseph Jackson, Elijah Hurt, Eli Longnecker, Josiah
Lippincott, Josiah Alkire, Wilburn Fugate, Arthur F. Bill, William A.
Gordon, David Shield, Alfred Grubb, R. W. Scanland, J. B. Donaldson,
J. F. Hide, A. T. Petit, Charles Jackson, Jacob Myers, Jr., Thomas
Plumb, Andrew Longnecker, William Lippincott.
" Raised. — Arthur F. Bill, Lewis Angle, David Shield, Thomas Plumb,
William Lippincott, Andrew Longnecker, Alfred Grubb, William A.
Gordon.
" Admitted. — Charles Jackson, Jacob Myers, Jr.
CHARLESTON LODGE NO. 35.
The brethren raised to the third degree during 1847 by this Locjge, are
as follows: Green Epperson, Feb. 23; J. W. Ross, March 30; Samuel
W. Moulton, April 3; Joseph Miller, Jr., Aug. 23 ; John Kennedy, Sept.
3; Joshua Moore, Nov. 16; N. Parker, Nov. 17. May 1, The Lodge bur-
ied the remains of Bro. George McDaniel.
June 24, Bro. William B. Mills, was elected W. M.; Arthur G. Mitchell,
S. W.; Newton W. Chapman, J. W.; Byrd Monroe, Treas.; Samuel W.
Moulton, Sec.; William Horr, Chaplain ; Augustus II. Chapman, S. D.;
William Horr, J. D.; Alex. P. Dunbar, Master of Ceremonies; James
Watson, Tyler.
Sept. 3, Bro. Carding Jackson was present and remained with the
Lodge one week. Nov. 16, the Lodge recommended the petition of sun-
dry brethren for a new Lodge at Shelbyville. St. John's Day (Dec. 27),
was duly celebrated, Bro. Wm. D. Gage delivering an oration.
KAVANAGH LODGE NO. 36.
Four brethren received the Master's degree in this Lodge during 1847,
viz.: John B. Green, April 7; W. T. Millar, Aug. 5; J. Ritchie, Oct. 26;
— Baldwin, Nov. 18.
Jan. 21, Bro. Carding Jackson present, and conferred the first degree
upon J. B. Green.
April 1, Bro. James Craig was interred with the usual formalities. St.
John's Day (June 24), was duly celebrated.
—32
442 HISTOKY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS.
Sept. 15, Bro. A. S. Mitchell was elected W. M.j Wm. C. Smith, S. W.;
C. F. Wortz, J. W.; J. S. Horr, Treas.; Robert Barker, Sec.; John Cad-
man, S. D.; G. W. Hipperly, J. D.; Jas. B. Goble, Tyler.
Oct. 26, the Lodge was informed of the death of Bro. and Lieut. John
Uonney, of " yellow fever, on the 21st Sept., in Camp at San Juan, Mex-
ico."
MONMOUTH LODGE NO. 37.
The dispensation for this Lodge was granted by Alexander Dunlap,
'Grand Master, upon the petition of J. W. F. Edmondson, Ben. Hebard,
-John Miles, Wm. Justice, Daniel Markham, Daniel McNeil, and Samuel
Webster, on the 8th day of December, 1843. Dec. 20th, Bro. Dunlap
issued his proxy to Bro. Lusk, to " constitute IN FORM the brethren afore-
said, to be known and distinguished by the name of Monmouth Lodge
U. D." Dec. 28th, Bro. Lusk opened the Lodge, Bro. Chandler, of Ma-
comb Lodge, assisting as S. W., when the following officers were in-
stalled : J. W. F. Edmondson, W. M.; Ben. Hebard, S. W.; John Miles,
J. W.; Samuel Webster, Treas.; Daniel McNeil, S. D.; Daniel Markham,
Tyler. The Secretary and Junior Deacon were not appointed, for the
reason, as we suppose, that there was not at the time sufficient member-
ship residing in Monmouth to fill the offices. The Lodge having adopted
a code of by-laws, proceeded to initiate Breth. John H. Mitchell, George
C. Lanphere, and B. Quincy McNeil. Of the brethren who composed
this Lodge while under dispensation, we have knowledge of but two —
Edmondson and Hebard. Bro. E. came from Temperance Lodge, at
Vandalia. The record informs us that Daniel McNeil hailed originally
from Sincerity No. 300, N. Y., and, immediately before assisting in the
formation of No. 37, from Warren No. — , Indiana.
Two brethren were raised during 1843, viz.: John H. Mitchell and
George C. Lanphere. There is no record of the doings of the Lodge for
the years 1844 and '45, but there appears a complete register of the work
done by the Lodge. From it we learn that Breth. Quincy McNeil
(March 4), David S. Cowan and John Lee (May 13), were raised in 1844.
Breth. John A. Young (May 3), Henry A. McCartney (May 26), Samuel
Boyles and James H. Stewart (June 9), and John A. Smith (July 7), were
raised during 1845. Bro. Elijah C. Berry, formerly of Vandalia Lodge
No. 8, was affiliated May 3, 1845.
But one meeting was held in the year 1846, that appears of record —
Dec. 1st — at which time the charter granted by the Grand Lodge was
received. The register indicates that meetings were held June 7, Nov.
10, and Dec. 29. No work was done during the year. During 1847,
meetings were held (according to the register) in the months of January,
February, March, and April, but no meeting between the dates Dec. 1,
1846, and June 22, 1847, appears of record.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 443
Breth. David Smith (March 2), Ezekiel Kent, Jr., and George W.
Palmer (March 3), Thomas W. Payne, (March 4), Daniel T. Denman
(June 8), Richard D. Hammond and James Townsley (Aug. 3), Wyatt B.
Stapp (Aug. 4), John Leeper (Dec. 7), Benoni Merrifield (Dec. 14), re-
ceived the third degree during 1847.
June 22, 1847, the by-laws were revised. Bro. Morse, Grand Master,
was present at this meeting, but did not preside; Bro. Geo. C. Lanphere,
W. M., in the East. No meeting was again held until Oct. 19, at which
no business of importance was transacted.
OLIVE BRANCH NO. 38.
This Lodge raised the following brethren during the year: William
McCormack, Jan. 19 ; Stanley Olmsted, March 23 ; Elias S. Cooper, April
27; James Partner, June 29; John H. Sconce, and John W. Mires, Aug.
28; Elmore Wooden, Aug. 31.
HERMAN LODGE NO. 39.
This Lodge (according to the return before us) raised three brethren
during 1847, viz: Daniel M. Jordan, April 7; Robert Voeth, June 2 ;
Henry Root, July 29.
OCCIDENTAL LODGE NO. 40.
The third degree was conferred by this Lodge, during 1847, upon Breth.
M. E. Hollister, April 6; John Dillon and Hyde, Nov. 5.
June 18, the following officers were elected: G. L. Thompson, W. M.;
David Walker, S. W.; B. C. Cook, J. W.; L. Leland, Treas. The election
was then for some cause suspended, and on the 24th June, it was re-
sumed, when M. E. Hollister was elected Secretary; H. W. Hopkins
and James Lafferty, Deacons. Aug. 20, it was resolved that every
brother absent from the Lodge at regular meetings, unless excused, should
pay "six and one-fourth cents;" if an officer, "12i cents."
FAR WEST LODGE NO. 41.
This Lodge made no return to the Grand Lodge for 1847.
MT. JOLIET LODGE NO. 42.
This Lodge made no return to the Grand Lodge for 1847.
BLOOMIXGTON LODGE NO. 43.
The dispensation for this Lodge was granted to Breth. John Foster,
Elijah Depew, Andrew Johnston, Owen Cheney, Hadley J. Short, William
Safely, Moses Baldwin, Eli N. Powell, Hazo Parsons, and Joseph Mitch-
«11, by Grand Master Morse, January 22, 1847, upon the recommendation
444 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
of Peoria Lodge No. 15. The first meeting was held March 1st, 1847, the-
above named brethren being present; the first three being W. Master,
Senior and Junior Wardens. Bro. Hadley J. Short was appointed Treas-
urer ; Joseph Mitchell, Secretary j Owen Cheney and Hazo Parsons, Dea-
cons; Eli N. Powell, Tyler.
Of the former Masonic home of these brethren, excepting Bro. Powell,,
we have no means of ascertaining. Bro. Powell was made in Pekin
Lodge No. 29. No business was transacted at the first meeting beyond
the appointment of a committee to prepare by-laws. At the second
meeting, the by-laws were adopted, no other business being transacted.
April 27, the petition of William C. Hobbs was presented and referred.
May 26, Bro. Hobbs was initiated, June 23 he was passed, and was raised
July 10. Bro. Simon B. Brown was also raised at the last-mentioned
meeting. Aug. 26, Lewis Bunn, and on Sept. 22, Geo. C. Holmes,
were raised. Nov. 24, the charter was received, when Bro. Allin Withers,
the proxy of the Grand Master, assisted by Bro. Hobbs, Grand Marshal,
installed the following officers and constituted the Lodge : John Foster,
W. M.; Elijah Depew, S. W.; Andrew Johnston, J. W.; John Mayers,
Treas.; S. B. Brown, Sec.; Wm. C. Hobbs, S. D.; Hazo Parsons, J. D.;
Eli N. Powell, Tyler.
The following named brethren received the Master's degree from the
date of the last-mentioned meeting : Reece Babb and Thomas J. Drain,
Nov. 27.
HARDIN LODGE NO. 44.
There were two Lodges bearing the name of Hardin, both under dis-
pensation, and both instituted in 1847. The first was at Mt. Sterling,
the second at Nashville. The Lodge at Mt. Sterling retained the name,
the Lodge at Nashville taking the name of Washington.
The Master's degree was conferred by No. 44 upon Breth. Robert N.
Curry, Sept. 17: A. T. F. Prevost, Sept. 22; Jonathan Hutchinsou, Sept.
23; Angus McPhail and James S. Irwin, Sept. 25, 1847.
The officers under dispensation were, George Adams, W. M.: John
Bigler, S. W.; Thomas S. Star, J. W.; John S. Bailey, Sec.; John Brown,
Treas.; John Currie, S. D.; James Wash, J. D.; Robert Trabue, Tyler.
GRIGGSVILLE LODGE NO. 45.
The following brethren were raised by this Lodge during 1847 : Wm.
B. Scholl, J. D. Battles, and C. Regan, Sept. 23 : E. Gary, Sept. 30. The
officers of this Lodge under dispensation were, Nathan Phillips, W. M.::
Joshua Ward, S. W.; A. Hill, J. W.; Timothy Fessenden, Treas.: Aaron
Tyler, Sec.; Daniel Fisher and C. L. Higby, Deacons: Wm. Gray, Tyler..
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 4Jo
TEMPLE LODGE NO. 46.
The first meeting of this Lodge, the dispensation for which was granted
'by the Grand Lodge at its session of 1846, was held Oct. 26, 1846. The
brethren present were, Geo. T. Metcalfe, W. M.; John C. Heyl, S. W.; C.
B. Stebbins, J. W.; Elwood Andrew, Sec. p. t.; Alden Wilkey, Treas. p.
t.; Eodolphus Rouse. The dispensation (which is recorded in full), was
read, accepted, and the Lodge opened on the third degree. Bro. Andrew-
was elected Sec.; John King, Treas.; S. D. W. Drown, Tyler. After ap-
pointing a committee to prepare by-laws, the Lodge closed. The Lodge
•did no work during the year.
CALEDONIA LODGE NO. 47.
The dispensation for this Lodge was granted by Grand Master Morse,
in the year 1847.
The raisings reported are as follows : John Mize and Henry D. Rid-
dle, June 24; Joel B. Mabry, John F. Pbe, Joseph Street, and Daniel
Astee, July 22 : James M. Davidge, Wm. J. Spencer, Melbone Steers, J.
O. Steers, Aug. 26 ; Allen Crowell, Sept. 23. The officers for 1847 were,
George Hawpe, W. M.; James S. Smith, S. W.; George W. Howell, J. W.;
Joseph Street, Treas.; James M. Davidge, Sec.; Joel B. Mabry, S. D.;
John F. Poe, J. D.
UNITY LODGE NO. 48.
The dispensation for this Lodge (St. Charles), was granted by Grand
Master Walker the day previous to the meeting of the Grand Lodge of
Illinois, in 1846, for twelve months, which the Grand Lodge decided he
had no power to do, and continued the Lodge under dispensation until
the next meeting of the Grand Lodge. We are unable to state what
work was done by the Lodge during 1847.
CAMBRIDGE LODGE NO. 49.
The dispensation for this Lodge was granted by Grand. Master Morse,
in 1847.
The Lodge was authorized to meet at two different points — Cambridge,
in Henry county, and Rock Island.
The first return shows the officers to have been Stephen Cady, W. M.;
William K. Talbot, S. W.; Roderick R. Stewart, J. W.; John Gilmore,
Treas.; Robert D. Foster, Sec.; Benjamin F. Barrett, S. D.; Harman G.
Reynolds, J. D.; B. Q. McNeil, Tyler. The first three of these were Past
Masters. The only work done by the Lodge under dispensation was the
initiating and passing of Michael Grant.
446 HISTOKY OF MASONBY IN ILLINOIS.
CARROLLTON LODGE NO. 50.
The dispensation for this Lodge (originally Fletcher Lodge), was
granted by the Grand Lodge at its session in 1847, and chartered in 1848,
as Carrollton. The names upon the petition are, Henry Dusenbury, E.
D'Arcey (S. W.), Isaac Darneille, R. S. Hollenbeck, E. Van Horn, J. B
Samuel (W. M.), David M. Woodson (J. W.), and D. B. Stith.
Mt. Moriah and Marion Lodges, under the jurisdiction of the Grand
Lodge of Missouri, had forfeited their charters, and were not in being
during this year. The Grand Lodge, at its session in 1847, authorized
the issuing of a dispensation to George C. Lanphere and others, for a
"traveling Lodge," to be connected with "Co. B," Illinois Dragoons,
then in Mexico, or about to start for that country, but we are unable to
state whether or not it was ever issued, but our impression is that it was
not. It was, we believe, reserved for a later Grand Lodge to try the
doubtful experiment of granting dispensations for army Lodges, and the
experiment resulted in the belief that the matter had been better left
Untouched.
CHAPTER XXII.
1848.
GRAND LODGE.
The ninth annual communication of the Grand Lodge of Illinois was
held in the city of Alton, commencing Monday, October 2, 1848. There
were present at the opening :
" William Lavely, Grand Master; John R. Crandall, Dep. Gr. Master ; Joseph C.
Keteham, G. S. W.; William W. Happy, G. J. W., p. t; William McMurtry, Gr.
Treas.; William Mitchell, Gr. Sec.; Rev. S. Y. McMasters, Gr. Chap., p. t.; E. R.
Roe, Gr. Orator; Wm. A. Dickey, Gr. Lecturer; William C. Hobbs, G. 8. I).; J. B.
Kyle, G. J. D., p. t.; Peter Sweat, Gr. Marshal; John H. Holton, Gr. Sw. Bearer;
W. W. Bennett, Gr. Pursuivant, p. t.; Timothy Souther and E. J. Harper, Gr.
Stewards ; Daniel M. Kittinger, Gr. Tyler.
" Levi Lusk and Nelson D. Morse, Past Gr. Masters. A. C. Dickson (3), 8. H.
Davis (15), Wm. B. Warren (3, P. G. Sec.), Charles Howard (25, P. G. Chap.), Past
Masters.
" REPRESENTATIVES.
" No. 1, J. H. Ralston,* W. M.; O. C. Skinner.* S. W.; H. Dills, J. W. No. 2, Wm.
Siddall, W. M. No. 3, W. B. Warren, W. M.; N. English,* S. W.; W. W. Happy, J. W.
No. 4, W. A. Dickey, W. M.; Z. P. Cabanis,* S. W. No. 8, H. J. Armstrong, W. M.
No. !), J. L. Anderson,* W. M.; Levi Lusk,* S. W. No. 13, Warren Brown,* .
No. 14, E. R. Roe,* W. M.; W. A. Redman,* S. W. No. 15, Thos. J. Pickett, W. M.;
John E. Carter, S. W. No. 17, J. B. Kyle, S. W. No. 19, John Bennett, W. M.
No. 23, Thos. Eyre,* . No. 24, C. Coghlan, W. M. No. 25, John Higham, W. M.;
D. M. Kittenger, S. W.; E. Hibbard,* J. W. No. 26, N. D. Morse, W. M.; William
McMurtry, S. W. No. 27, T. Souther, W. M. No. 28, X. F. Trail,* . No. 29,
B. S. Prettyman, W. M. No. 30, Chas. W. Rockhold, W. M. No. 31, W. W. Bennett,
W. M.; A. Johnston,* S. W.; S. G. Hicks,* J. W. No. 33, Geo. Davis, W. M. No. 34,
A. F. Bill, J. W. No. 35, Arthur G. Mitchell, W. M. No. 37, R. D. Hammond, W. M.
No. 38, William E. Russell, . No. 39, John H. Holton,* . No. 43, Wm. C.
Hobbs,* . No. 44, C. P. Salter, J. W. No. 45, Timothy Fessenden, W. M.
No. 4G, John C. Heyl, S. W.; C. B. Stebbins, J. W. No. 47, John W. Rigby,* W. M.
No. 49, Stephen Cady, W. M.; H. G. Reynolds,* S. and J. W. Carrollton, U. D.,
J. B. Samuel, W. M. Mount Moriah, U. D., Joseph H. Ralston,* . Benevolent,
448 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
U. D., William J. Wakerlee, W. M. Jackson, U. I)., J. B. Guilford,* W. M.
Reclamation, U. D., D. W. Pressell, W. M.; J. S. Wilber,* S. W. Washington, U. D.,
John G. Baker, W. M.; Thos. S. Roe, S. W. Pittsfield, U. D., R. W. Scanland, S. W.;
James T. Hyde, J. W. Trio, U. D., P. A. Whittaker, W. M. Fraternal, U. D., J. C.
Johnson,* W. M. New Boston, U. D., E. D. Morgan,* W. M. Belvidere, U. D.,
Nijah Hotchkiss, J. W. Lacon, U. D., William Fenn, W. M. St. Mark's, U. D.,
John F. Gray, W. M."
There was also present the following visitors :
" M. W. J. W. S. Mitchell, P. G. M. and P. G. See., Grand Lodge of Missouri ;
E. G. Earnheart, No. 60, Indiana; Samuel Button, J. H. Luce, and L. B. Gray,
No. 1; Clark Winser, Reclamation, U. D.; I. H. Hardy, John Bailhache, J. W.
Schweppe, No. 27; E. J. Harper, Vale, Lebold, John Smith, Stoeckel, and Weigler,
of Alton."
The reading of the minutes was dispensed with. Grand Master Lavely
then delivered his address, but its length forbids its insertion here.
He returned thanks to the Great I AM, " in whom all faithful brethren
continually put their trust," that the members of the Craft were again
permitted to assemble in annual communication ; reported the contin-
uance of the dispensation of " Ilardin Lodge," at Nashville, which
Lodge, for some reason, had been overlooked by the Grand Lodge at its
session of 1847; the granting of dispensations for Mount Moriah, Benev-
olent, Jackson, Reclamation, New Boston, Fraternal, Social, Belvidere,
Lacon, Jerusalem, Trio, Pittsfield, Benton, and Euclid Lodges, at Hills-
boro, Meredosia, Shelbyville, Nauvoo, New Boston, Monticello, Ilenne-
pin, Belvidere, Lacon, Oregon City, Bock Island, Pittsfield, Benton, and
Naperville, respectively.
The Grand Lodge of Missouri, upon petition to that body, recom-
mended to Bro. Lavely to authorize the members of Mount Moriah Lodge
to reorganize under the charter granted them by the Grand Lodge of
Missouri (which had been declared forfeited), thus avoiding the necessity
of another probation under dispensation. Bro. Lavely, not understand-
ing by what authority the Grand Master of one State could revive the
charter of a Ledge declared forfeited by another Grand Lodge, declined
doing so, and tendered the brethren at Hillsboro a dispensation, which
they accepted. He reported granting permission for Cambridge Lodge
No. 49 to hold its meetings alternately at Rock Island and Cambridge,
which continued in force until the brethren at Rock Island procured a
dispensation for a Lodge of their own.
A like dispensation was granted to Hiram Lodge No. 26, to hold its
meetings at Henderson and Knoxville. Temple Lodge No. 46 having
initiated a candidate after the return of their dispensation to the Grand
Lodge, Bro. Lavely decided the work illegal, and required the work done
over again, thus healing the irregularity. This decision was an iinpor-
* Proxy.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS. 449
tant one, as the same thing had been done repeatedly prior to 1847. The
following correspondence with the Grand Master of Iowa explains itsel I'.
" BLOOMIXGTON, Iowa, March 15, 184b.
" M. W. William Lavely, Esq., Grand Master Grand Lodge of Illinois:
" DEAR SIR AND BRO.— By a resolution adopted by the Grand Lodge of Iowa, at
its last communication, it becomes my duty, as the Grand Master of said Grand
.Lodge, to call your attention to a misapprehension under which the members of
the Grand Lodge of Illinois appear to be laboring.
"In the printed proceedings of your Grand Lodge, both (I believe) for 18-15
and for 184(i, under the name of Rising Sun Lodge No. 12 and Keokuk U. D.,the
following note appears, to-wit: the one, 'charter forfeited;' the other, 'dis-
pensation forfeited, and now under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Iowa.'
This is a mistake; those Lodges have never been under the jurisdiction of the
Grand Lodge of Iowa.
"At the convention which met at Iowa City, in January, 1844, to form the
•Grand Lodge of Iowa, delegates from those Lodges appeared, claiming to be un-
der the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, asking permission to take
seats and participate in the doings of the convention, but were refused admis-
sion, on the ground that we had been advised that they were not in good stand-
ing in your Grand Lodge. After our Grand Lodge was organized, they again ap-
plied to be admitted under its jurisdiction, but were again refused admission,
until they should produce a certificate from the Grand Secretary of the Grand
Lodge of Illinois, of their good standing in that Grand Lodge. The certificate
was not presented to our Grand Lodge; consequently those Lodges were not
admitted under our jurisdiction, as you will see by the printed proceedings of
the convention to which I have alluded above, and the proceedings of the first
grand communication of the Grand Lodge of Iowa, copies of which, I believe,
were transmitted to the Grand Secretary of your Grand Lodge. The members
of the Grand Lodge of Iowa desire you, as the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge
of Illinois, to have the misapprehension removed and the mistake corrected, as
a matter of justice to them, as members of the Grand Lodge of Iowa.
" Please acknowledge the receipt of this, and believe me to be, respectfully
and fraternally, your obedient servant, ANSEL HUMPHREYS,
" Grand Master of Iowa."
"SPRINGFIELD, 111., March 31, 1848.
" M. 1C. Ansel Humphreys, Esq., Grand Master Grand Lodge of Iowa :
" DEAR SIR AND BRO. — Your very respectful communication of the 15th inst.
has been received and its contents duly considered. You complain that the
members of our Grand Lodge appear to be laboring under a misarprehonsion in
stating in the printed proceedings, both for 1845 and 1846, that Rising Sun Lodge
No. 12 and Keokuk Lodge U. D., having respectively forfeited their charter and
dispensation, were 'now under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Iowa,'
and request me, 'as the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, to have
the misapprehension removed and the mistake corrected.'
" I must, most respectfully, and in all kindness, beg leave to differ with my
•esteemed brethren, the members of the M. W. Grand Lodge of Iowa, as to the
members of our Grand Lodge laboring under any misapprehsion whatever, so
far as the notes in the printed proceedings referred to are concerned. OurGrand
450 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
Lodge, recognizing and acting upon the principle that her territorial jurisdiction
is co-extensive with the civil jurisdiction of the State of Illinois, beyond which in
any State or Territory in which there may be a Grand Lodge established, she will
not exercise her powers or privileges ; within which she will not patiently endure
that another Grand Lodge shall establish, exercise, and maintain jurisdiction ;
it was noted by the Grand Secretary, in the list of subordinate Lodges of our
Grand Lodge, in the printed proceedings of 1845, under the head of Rising Sun
Lodge No. 12, at Montrose, Iowa,' that ' this Lodge came under censure in 1843;
at the formation of the Grand Lodge of Iowa, it passed under that jurisdiction,'
and under the head of 'Keokuk Lodge U. D.,' that it was 'censured by com-
mittee in 1842, but no action of the Grand Lodge was had thereupon ; it is now
within the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Iowa.' And also in the printed pro-
ceedings of our Grand Lodge for the year 1846, it was again noted, in the same
connection, 'No. 12, vacant;' and under the head of ' Keokuk Lodge U. D., at Keo-
kuk, Iowa, dispensation forfeited, now under the territorial jurisdiction of the
Grand Lodge of Iowa.'
"Thus?, M. W. brother, being informed as to the stand taken by our Grand
Lodge with regard to her jurisdiction, and being corrected in your quotations as
to the precise words used by our Grand Secretary in noticing those two lodges,
to which the members of your M. W. Grand Lodge took exceptions, I hope and
am assured that you and the members of your M. W. Grand Lodge will be per-
fectly and fully satisfied that no odium orreproach was intended to be cast upon
your M. W. Grand Lodge, or its worthy officers and members.
"The members of your M. W. Grand Lodge, laboring under what I conceive
to be a misapprehension of the meaning and intention of our Grand Secretary,
in noticing the Lodges that had passed from under our territorial jurisdiction
by the establishment of your M. W. Grand Lodge, and believing that such a
notice was calculated, if not intended, to cast a reproach upon them, it affords
me the utmost pleasure to be enabled to remove such misapprehension, and to
assure them of the high respect and fraternal regard entertained by our Grand
Lodge for her sister Grand Lodge of the State of Iowa and her subordinates.
"Hoping that the brethren of your M. W. Giand Lodge may be satisfied with
this explanation, I have the honor to be, with great respect,
" Yours fraternally, &c.,
"WILLIAM LAVELY,
" Grand Master Grand Lodge of Illinois."
He then touches upon the subject of Grand Lecturers and " itiner-
ants," being somewhat " down " upon the latter class of gentry. The
subject of the education of Masonic orphans was fully and freely com-
mented upon, and urged as one of the duties of the Fraternity.
The address, which was an able paper, was referred to Breth. Ander-
son (9), Ralston (1), Holton (39), Hobbs (43), and Happy (3).
The following committees were then announced :
On Returns and Work of Chartered Lodges. — Breth. Morse (26), Ander-
son (9), Hammond (37). On Lodges U. D.— Dills (1), Hobbs (43), and
Mitchell (G. Sec.). Petitions and Grievances.— Lusk (9), Ketcham (27),
and McMurtry (20). To Examine Visitors.— Dickey (4), Hicks (31).
Finance.— Warren (14), Anderson (9), and Siddall (2).
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 451
The Grand Lodge was then called off until 2 o'clock P. M., at which
time the Grand Lodge again assembled. The same brethren were pres-
ent as in the morning.
An invitation to dedicate the Hall of Franklin Lodge was accepted,
and Breth. Holton (39), "Warren (3), and Cabanis (4), were appointed a
committee to make the proper arrangements.
Bro. Anderson offered a resolution, which was adopted, declaring that
when the office of W. M. became vacant, it was the right of the Lodge
to proceed to an election without a dispensation from the M. W. Grand
Master.
The question brought up by Mt. Vernon Lodge No. 3t, at the session
of 1847, regarding the trial of Entered Apprentices and Fellow Crafts,
was disposed of by adding to section XVII. of the by-laws (which pro-
vided that all business except conferring the first and second degrees,
should be done in a Master's Lodge), "and the trial of E. A.'s and F.
C.'s for delinquencies."
An appeal of Bro. John Gregory from the action of Harmony Lodge,.
in suspending him, was referred to the Committee on Petitions and
Grievances, when the Grand Lodge was called off until Tuesday morn-
ing 9 o'clock.
Tuesday morning, the Grand Lodge was again called on, the same-
officers and representatives present as on Monday.
The Grand Master, in order to expedite business, laid down as a rule
that no brother would be permitted to speak twice on the same subject,,
without leave of the Grand Lodge.
The Committee on Lodges U. D. reported, recommending the granting
of charters to Mount Moriah, as 51; Benevolent, 52; Jackson, 53; Re-
clamation, 54; Hardin, as Washington, 55; Pittsfield, 56; Trio, as 57 ?
Fraternal, 58 ; New Boston, 59 ; and Belvidere, as 60 ; which was con-
curred in, and the representatives of these Lodges invited to seats. The-
committee, in view of the undue haste in which one or more of these-
Lodges had conferred degrees, recommended the adoption of a resolu-
tion, prescribing that one lunar month should elapse between the re-
ception of a petition and initiation, and a similar time between the con-
ferring of the first and second, and second and third degrees. The-
resolution was laid over for consideration.
The matter relating to Trio Lodge was referred to the Committee on
Petitions and Grievances, and the remainder of the report adopted.
An appeal from T. F. O'Daniel, an Entered Apprentice, from certain
action of Herman Lodge No. 39, was referred back to the Lodge for fur-
ther action.
The Committee on Chartered Lodges reported the returns of Nos. 1, 2,.
3, 9, 14, 17, 26, 37, 39, 43, and 50 correct and dues paid.
Bro. Lusk, late Grand Secretary, reported that after carefully balan-
4-52 HISTORY OF MASONKY IX ILLINOIS.
cing his books, he found $11.16 due the Grand Lodge, which had escaped
the notice of the Finance Committee, and which he had paid over to the
•Grand Treasurer. His communication was referred to the Finance Com-
mittee.
Upon Bro. "Warren's motion to that effect, the name of Fletcher Lodge
was changed to that of Carrollton.
Breth Ketcham (27), Davis (33), and Pickett (15), were appointed a
Committee on Unfinished Business.
Breth. Lusk (9), Crandall (46), and Davis (15), were appointed a com-
mittee to determine as to the expediency of a "public procession, <tc,"
during the sitting.
Bro. Warren called up the resolution offered by him in 1847, providing
that no Lodge should vote by proxy, which Bro. Anderson moved to
amend by adding •' unless he be a member of the Lodge which he rep-
resents."
Bro. Reynolds moved to amend the amendment by inserting a proviso
•"that this resolution shall not take effect until after this present com-
munication." Whereupon Bro. Warren withdrew his motion, and moved
to take up the resolution offered by Bro. Sweat in 1847, providing for the
-creation of a representative fund, and the manner of payment of the
same, but as this was an amendment to the constitution, and the subor-
dinate Lodges had not voted thereon, the Grand Master decided it could
not properly be taken up; when Bro. Anderson renewed the motion of
Bro. Warren, regarding the resolution of that brother, which was car-
ried, and the amendment thereto accepted by Bro. Warren. Bro. Lavely,
having decided that the resolution could not be amended at that time,
the whole matter was withdrawn.
Bro. Elias Hibbard then came to the rescue, and offered a resolution,
stating as the sense of the Grand Lodge, that the fourth clause of the
constitution was intended to mean that the proxy of an officer of a sub-
ordinate Lodge should be a member of the same Lodge with the officer
whose proxy he held; which was adopted by a vote of yeas and nays,
Yeas, 36; nays, 7.
Bro. Samuel H. Davis submitted the report on correspondence. It was
an able document, and reviewed the Grand Lodges of Vermont, New
Hampshire, Connecticut, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia,
North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, Kentucky, Louisi-
ana ("old and new"), Mississippi, Ohio, Indiana, Missouri, Wisconsin,
Iowa, Texas, Districts of Montreal and William Henry, Canada.
The Grand Lodge of Vermont was fully recognized. Under the head
of New York, "that a member of one of our subordinate (Illinois)
Lodges, while in New York city, saw, upon landing, large placards, an-
nouncing that the Grand Lodge of New York would appear in procession
•on a certain day and at a given hour, both of which had then arrived."
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 453
Presently " the Grand Lodge " appeared to view, and much to the aston-
ishment of our brother, in the large procession of Ancient Craft, Royal
Arch, and Templar Masons which greeted his eyes, not a white face was
to be seen. We can well imagine our brother's exclamation when the
head of the column appeared — niggers ! The report is extremely lengthy,
and is of but little interest at the present day.
After the reading of the report, the Grand Lodge was called off until
2 o'clock P. M., at which time it was again called to labor.
The Committee on Lodges U. D. recommended the granting of char-
ters to Lacon Lodge, as No. 61 ; Jerusalem, as 62 ; and St. John's Lodge,,
at Woodstock, as St. Marks, No. 63 ; and recommended the continuance
of the dispensation of Social Lodge. Upon the adoption of the rec<iin-
mendation of the committee, the representatives of those Lodges to
whom charters were granted were invited to seats in the Grand Lodge.
The Committee on Petitions and Grievances reported, in the matter of
Trio Lodge, referred to them, that the difficulty grew out of an attempted
division of the funds of Cambridge Lodge when the Rock Island breth-
ren formed Trio Lodge. The committee recommended that Trio Lodge
pay Cambridge Lodge 822.50, with which decision the representatives
of both Lodges being satisfied, the recommendation was adopted, and
on motion of William A. Dickey, a charter was granted Trio as No. 57-
The Grand Lodge then went into an election for grand officers, result-
ing as follows :
" WILLIAM LAVELY, Springfield, M. W. G. Master.
E. R. ROE, Shawneetown, R. W. Dep. G. Master.
JOS. C. KETCHAM, Alton, R. W. S. G. Warden.
WILLIAM C. HOBBS. Bloomiogton, R. W. J. G. Warden.
WILLIAM McMURTRY, Henderson, R. W. G. Treasurer.
WILLIAM MITCHELL, Pcoria, R. W. G. Secretary.
SAMUEL H. DAVIS, Peoria, R. W. G. Orator.
GEORGE DAVIS, Chicago, his alternate.
Rev. CHAS. HOWARD, R. W. G. Chaplain."
The election of Grand Tyler was postponed until the Grand Lodge had
been located for another year. Bro. Roe moved a resolution that the-
Grand Lodge "should not now" be permanently located, which was
adopted.
Bro. Ketchum moved that when the Grand Lodge proceeded to vote-
upon the question of location, two points, northern and southern, should
be fixed upon, and that the Grand Lodge should meet alternately at the-
t\vo places. The motion was lost.
Bro. Sweat moved that the next session be held at Peru.
Bro. Cabanis moved to amend by inserting Decatur.
Bro. Davis (Geo.) moved to insert Chicago, and supported his motion
by the written invitation of the two Chicago Lodges to the Grand.
454 HISTOEY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS.
Lodge ; whereupon all the motions were withdrawn, and the Grand
Lodge proceeded to fix the place by a general vote. Upon the first
ballot Chicago received 18 votes, Springfield 5, Rushville 2, Decatur 2,
Peru 1, Shawneetown 15, and Pittsfield 5. On the second ballot Chicago
received 27, Shawneetown 17, and Springfield 5 votes, and Chicago was
declared the place of meeting of the Grand Lodge in 1849.
Bro. N. Christy, of Chicago, was then elected Grand Tyler.
A communication from "Wm. M. Black, W. M. Temperance Lodge No.
16, representing that that Lodge had become so reduced by removals and
•deaths, as to be placed in anything but a working condition, was pre-
sented, asking that they be granted the privilege of suspending work,
as they did not wish to surrender their charter.
The request was granted, and the charter, jewels, etc., ordered to be
forwarded to the Grand Master until such time as the Lodge should be
revived.
After hearing a report from the Committee of Arrangements for the
dedication of the hall of Franklin Lodge, the Grand Lodge was called
off unltil 7 o'clock P. M.
At 7 o'clock the Grand Lodge was called to labor.
A communication from F. W. Herring, S. G. W. Grand Lodge New
York, was referred to La Fayette Lodge No. 18, " with instructions to
act on it."
The Grand Master presented his account for printing dispensations,
-cash paid for stationery and postage, in all $9.50. This whole amount
would not pay the postage alone of the present Grand Master for one
month, much less a whole year. The consolidation of Apollo and Ori-
ental Lodges, of Chicago, was reported and approved. The Grand Secre-
tary was empowered to have four copies of the proceedings bound, and
that he purchase a seal.
The committee appointed to revise the constitution reported, and the
report ordered to be published in the proceedings and acted upon by
the subordinate Lodges as a whole, their determination to be reported to
the next annual communication.
Bro. Rockhold offered a resolution providing for a committee to inquire
into the condition of Bro. Halfpenny, an indigent Mason residing at
Canton.
Breth. Rockhold (30), Morse (26), and Crandall (46), were appointed.
Bro. Davis offered a resolution providing for the approval of the con-
stitution adopted by a convention in Baltimote in 1847, for the forma-
tion of a Supreme Grand Lodge, which, at his request, was laid over
until the next day. He was called away from Alton early the next
morning, and the resolution was never taken up and acted on.
The Grand Lodge was called off until Wednesday morning.
Wednesday morning the Grand Lodge was called to labor. The same
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 455
officers and members were present as in the evening before, except that
Bro. Dills was acting as J. G. W. p. t.
The following appointments were announced:
" R. W. DILLER, Springfield, R. W. D. G. Secretary.
WILLIAM A. DJCKEY, Springfield, R. W. G. Lecturer.
W. W. BENNETT, Mt. Vernon, W. G. S. D.
HOSEA J. ARMSTRONG, Decatur, J. G. D.
H. G. REYNOLDS, Rock Island, G. Marshal.
CLARK B. STEBBINS, Peoria, G. Sword Bearer.
WM. E. RUSSELL, Danville, G. Pursuivant.
JOHN PAHLMAN, } Chicago, G. Stewards."
Breth. Davis (15), Mitchell (15), and "Warren (3), were appointed a
Committee on Foreign Correspondence.
The committee on the address of the Grand Master reported. They
recommended the appointment of a committee of three to determine
the work, the setting aside of cents annually as a fund from which
to pay Grand Lecturers, and that no dispensation should be granted
until the W. M. and "Wardens of the new Lodge were certified to be
capable of conferring the three degrees. The first and second resolu-
tions were postponed indefinitely, and the third, after having been so
amended as to apply to the Master only, was adopted.
Bro. Ketcham moved the discharge of the Committee on Education,
appointed at the last annual communication, and the appointment of a
new committee.
Bro. Roe moved to amend by adding that the committee be instructed
to report a plan for three schools, one to be located at the place of
holding the Supreme Court in each grand division, said plan to be pre-
pared with reference to economy and the greatest amount of usefulness.
The resolution as amended was adopted.
Breth. Ketcham (27), Holton (39,) Davis (33), Roe (14), and Hobbs (43),
were constituted the Committee on Education.
Bro. Sweat moved to take up the resolution creating a representative
fund, which was tabled.
The Committee on Petitions and Grievances reported that the letter of
John Gregory was no appeal from the action of Harmony Lodge, and
were discharged from further consideration of the same.
The Grand Lodge then proceeded to Concert Hall, where. the grand
officers were installed by P. G. M. Mitchell, of Missouri, and upon its
return to the Lodge-room, the Grand Lodge was called off until 2 o'clock
P. M., and at that hour was again called off until 7 o'clock P. M., when
the Grand Lodge again assembled and proceeded to labor.
Bro. Cabanis moved that the Grand Lodge pay the expenses of such
grand officers as were not representatives of Lodges, which was lost, a
456 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS
motion of Bro. Dills to lay the motion on the table prevailing, by a vote
of 21 to 7.
Bro. Roe moved that the Committee on Education report their several
plans for schools to the Grand Secretary in time for publication in the
minutes, which was lost.
The reports of the Grand Treasurer and Secretary were referred to the
Finance Committee.
The Grand Secretary was directed to omit "rejections " in the pub-
lished proceedings of the Grand Lodge.
A resolution, declaring it the right of subordinate Lodges to remit
dues to all indigent Masons, was adopted.
The Committee on Lodges U. D. recommended the continuance of the
dispensation of Euclid Lodge, which was concurred in.
The second resolution in the first report of the Committee on Lodges
U. D., was stricken out, and the report adopted as amended.
The committee on the case of Bro. Halfpenny was directed to inquire
into the case of Bro. James De Coursey, of Xo. 31. There is not a meet-
ing (regular) of Mt. Vernon Lodge recorded up to 1848, that does not
show an appropriation of some kind for this brother. Seventy-five dol-
lars was appcopriated to Carding Jackson.
The Finance Committee reported the receipts at $927.00; in the hands
of the Grand Treasurer, $l,527.87i, and that the accounts of Past Grand
Master Walker were in an unsettled state, and recommended action
thereupon. The report was adopted.
Bro. Skinner moved to take up the resolution creating a representative
fund, and upon a motion to divide the question, withdrew his motion.
The bonds of the Grand Secretary and Treasurer were presented and
approved.
On motion of Bro. Cabanis, it was resolved that when a Lodge re-
ceived a petition it was the duty of the Lodge to act upon it fully, at the
proper time.
The report of the Committee on Foreign Correspondence was adopted
and ordered printed.
The Committee on Lodges U. D. recommended the continuance of the
dispensation of Benton Lodge, which was concurred in.
The Committee on Chartered Lodges reported the returns of Xos. 29,
38, and 42 correct. They reported the total number of Master Masons
in the State to be 1,050; initiations, 330; non-affiliated, 258.
The Grand Secretary was directed to correspond with Past Grand Mas-
tor Walker, upon the subject of his accounts.
The Grand Lodge was then called off until Thursday morning 8 o'clock.
Upon re-assembling, the vote upon the adoption of the recommenda-
tion of the Committee on Lodges U. D., continuing the dispensation of
Benton Lodge was reconsidered, and a charter granted as Xo. 64.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 457
The loan made Bro. Chatterton in 1846 and renewed in 1847, was again
renewed.
Breth. Bailhache (27), Happy (3), and Davis (15), were elected Trus-
tees under the charter granted by the General Assembly.
The committee on the case of Bro. Halfpenny reported that in 1846 he
was allowed $25, in 1847, $40, and that in this ratio the Grand Lodge
would be expected to appropriate $65 ; that Morning Star Lodge had re-
ceived $220 for work done, and $37 for dues, and had made no appropri-
ations for charity,- consequently, a majority of the committee reported
unfavorably. This, we think, was right. But the minority of the com-
mittee was not satisfied, and moved an appropriation of $40, which was
finally cut down to $30, and, with a like appropriation for Bro. James
De Coursey, was passed.
Hiram Lodge No. 26 was authorized to meet at Henderson and Knox-
ville alternately. The report of the Committee on Constitution was
read and amended by striking out " first Monday in June " and inserting
" third Monday in May," which was adopted. A bill of fifteen dollars,
for music at the dedication of Franklin Lodge, was presented and lost,
whereupon it was moved by Bro. McMurtry to take up the resolution of
Bro. Dills, offered in 1847, refusing to pay music bills, and the motion
was lost. An attempt was again made to pay the bill incurred by
Franklin Lodge for her own benefit, which was lost.
On motion of Bro. Cabanis, it was resolved that a Warden had the
right to preside in the absence of the Master and confer degrees, with-
out reference to the Past Master's degree. The thanks of the Grand
Lodge were tendered Bro. 0. C. Skinner, for his services at the Grand
Lodge of Missouri.
On motion of Bro. Dills, it was resolved that if a majority of the Lodges
reported in favor of the schools, the M. W. Grand Master and Trustees
should proceed to organize one in each grand division of the State.
The thanks of the Grand Lodge having been rendered to Bro. Lavely
and the brethren at Alton, it was closed.
BODLEY LODGE NO. 1.
The following brethren were raised by this Lodge in 1848: C. Starr,
Jan. 10 ; John Flack, Jan. 17; A. McFarland, Feb. 28; William Green,
April 24; S. Holmes, Sept. 18.
March 30, Bro. A. W. Blakesley was affiliated. April 17, communi-
cations from Mt. Vernon, Macomb, and the Alton Lodges, in regard
to education, were received and referred to a Committee on Education,
consisting of Breth. Ralston, Skinner, Watson, and Hutton. May 29,
Bro. Lucas, of Harmony Lodge No. 3, was introduced by Bro. Warren,
—33
458 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
his mission to the Lodge being to solicit aid towards erecting a
monument to Bro. John J. Hardin. The matter was referred to Breth.
Watson, Hutton, and Dills. The committee appointed at a previous
meeting reported against a public celebration of the 24th June. July 14,
Bro. James Murphy, who " died suddenly, on the 13th July," was buried.
July 17, the business at this meeting was almost altogether of a charita-
ble nature. July 26, Bro. Richard Field was buried. Aug. 21, the
report of the Committee on Education was read and laid over until the
Monday following, at which time it was, after some amendment, adopted.
This report does not appear on the record. Dec. 26, officers as follows
were elected : John Crockett, W. M.; Harrison Dills, S. W.; Samuel
Hutton, J. W.; Q. S. Barton, Treas.; William Blakesley, Sec'y ; F. B.
Leech, Chaplain. The record of the election of William Blakesley is a
mistake as far as the first name is concerned. It should have read
"A. W." Dec. 27, the elected officers were installed, as also the follow-
ing appointed : J. H. Luce and T. E. Durant, Deacons; T. Monroe, Tyler.
EQUALITY LODGE NO. 2.
The first meeting on record from June 24, 1846, is June 3d, 1848. The
Master's degree, during 1848, was conferred upon Theodore S. Hazen,
Sept. 7; W. H. Crawford, Sept. 12. Edward Holman was also raised,
but no date is given.
June 24, the following officers were elected : William Siddall, W. M.;
John M. Burnett, S. W.; John Howard, J. W.; Joshua Bradley, Treas.;
S. S. Scudder, Sec.; Jos. E. Watkins and John D. Cummings, Deacons.
Bro. Siddall had held the office of Treasurer (with the exception of six
months as Master), from the organization of the Lodge. Sept. 2, the
Lodge voted to pay the burial expenses of Bro. Edmund Jones, a mem-
ber of the Lodge from its organization. Dec. 27, another election was
held, resulting as follows : John M. Burnett, W. M.; E. Holeman, S. W.;
W. II. Crawford, J. W.; William Siddall, Treas.; John Howard, Sec.;
Watkins and Bradley, Deacons. These officers were all elected unani-
mously.
HARMONY LODGE NO. 3.
The following brethren received the third degree in this Lodge during
1848 : John T. Worthington, Feb. 11 ; 0. M. Long, April 17 ; Cyrus Epler,
April 18; H. H. Graves, April 20; E. L. Dawson, date unknown.
Feb. 7, the following resolutions were adopted :
"Resolved, As the sense of this Lodge, that it is contrary to the spirit and
ancient usage of Masonry, and in the opinion of this Lodge, it is a violation of
Masonic duty, for a brother to demit from a Lodge unless for such reasons as
are set forth in the book of constitutions.
"Resolvtd, That in the opinion of this Lodge it is the duty of each and every
brother Master Mason to be a member of the Lodge nearest his residence, pro-
vided he shall live within twenty miles of a regular Lodge."
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 459
It was ordered that the delegate to the Grand Lodge be instructed to
present these resolutions to the Grand Lodge.
April 3, the Lodge subscribed fifty dollars to the Blind Asylum. Sept.
18, Breth. Worthington, Warren, Happy, and Dickson, were appointed a
committee upon the matter of schools, as recommended by the Grand
Lodge.
Dec. 27, the following officers were elected : W. C. Swett, W. M.; W.
S. Hurst, S. W.; N. English, J. W.; W. N. Ross, Treas.; A. C. Dickson,
Sec.; W. W. Happy and Cyrus Epler were appointed Deacons.
SPRINGFIELD LODGE NO. 4.
The raisings by this Lodge during 1848 were as follows: M. Hersh-
feldt, W. Hickman, Jan. 7; Nichols, Feb. 14; S. S. Whitehurst,.
Feb. 27: R. W. Diller and Charles Fisher, March 29; J. H. Chamblin,
and S. II. Morse, Oct. 18; Augustus C. French and Job T. Taylor, Nov..
17; J. P. Brooks and George L. Huntington, Nov. 22.
Jan. 3, the officers elected at the December meeting of 1847 were in-
stalled, P. A. Dorwin and S. R. Baker being appointed Deacons.
Dec. 27, officers as follows were elected : Z. P. Cabanis, W. M.; J. W,
Keyes, S. W.; M. Brayman, J. W.; William Lavely, Treas.; A. R. Rob-
inson, Sec. Bro. Brayman was elected W. M., but declined.
FRIENDSHIP LODGE NO. 7.
The Master's degree was conferred by this Lodge, during 1848, upon
four brethren, viz.: Stephen B. Green, Feb. 1; H. M. Wood, April 25;
A. Smith, June 6; E. B. Baker, Dec. 28.
April 12, the petition of sundry brethren at Oregon, Ogle county, for
a new Lodge, was recommended. June 15, Bro. D. B. McKenny was
elected W. M.; Horace Preston, S. W.; C. T. Chase, J. W.; R. B. Love-
land, Treas.; H. N. Tuttle, Sec.; Jas. Campbell and H. M. Wood, Dea-
cons; J. B. Nash, Tyler.
At the installation of these officers on June 24, the W. M., S. W., J.
W., and S. D. were installed by proxy, neither of the officers elected to
these places being present.
Oct. 11, the decease of Bro. H. M. Wood is incidentally mentioned in
the course of business. There is no other record of his death or burial.
Dec. 28, a petition for a new Lodge at Fulton City was recommended.
MACON LODGE NO. 8.
The following raisings were had by this Lodge during 1848: David
P. Bunn, March 11; R. 0. Paranteau, Aug. 16; Joseph Kaufman, Nov.
17; John Warner, Dec. 27.
460 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
Jan. 22, Bro. Prather offered a resolution renting the hall to seven of
the members of the Lodge, in order to hold a ball on the 22d February.
The resolution was ordered to lie over to January 29, and the Secretary
ordered to notify absent brethren. On the 29th the vote was taken by
yeas and nays, and the resolution was lost — yeas, 10; nays 11.
March 18, Bro. Gorin was demitted, he being about to remove, and Bro.
Braden resigned his office, leaving the Lodge without Wardens. March
24, E. D. Carter was elected S. W.: W. J. Condell, J. W., but he having de-
clined, Bro. Isaac C. Pugh was elected, which vacated the office of Treas-
urer, whereupon Bro. Stamper was duly elected. The W. M., at this
stage of the proceedings, tendered his resignation, which " the Lodge
rejected." The election of Bro. Carter as S. W., had vacated the office
of J. D., to which place Bro. Rails was appointed.
July 24, Bro. Hummel tendered his resignation as Tyler, and asked
for a demit, both of which were refused.
Nov. 4, an election was had, which resulted in the re-election of Bro.
Armstrong as Master; Breth. Carter and Pugh were elected Wardens.
The remainder of the officers were re-elected excepting the Tyler, to
which office Bro. Rails was elected.
EUSHVILLE LODGE NO. 9,
Raised as follows : George W. Metze, M. T. Price, and Joseph Mont-
gomery— no dates given.
The officers were as follows : M. L. Reed, W. M.; John C. Bagby, S.
W.; Samuel McCreary, J. W.; John B. Seeley, Treas.; James B. Wright,
:Sec.; William Davis, S. D.; Jacob 0. Jones, J. D.; Richard Stephenson,
•Tyler.
ST. JOHN'S LODGE NO. 13.
This Lodge raised the following brethren, viz. : David M. Hulett, Jan.
27; H. L. Owens, Mar. 2; T. D. Brewster, ; Ebenezer Higgins,
; Isaac H. Lamb, .
Feb. 3, the petition for Social Lodge, at Hennepin, was duly recom-
mended. The records of this Lodge, in our possession, terminate with
the meeting of March 16th.
WARREN LODGE NO. 14.
The following named brethren received the Master's degree in No. 14
during 1848: John T. Knox, Feb. 19th; J. B. Barger, June 2d ; Job
Smith, July 22d ; Charles C. Guard, Sept. 1st.
Feb. 28th, the remains of Ephraim II. Gatewood were buried with
Masonic honors.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 461
June 13th, the Lodge buried the remains of Bro. Edward Jones, of
Equality Lodge No. 2, that Lodge being unable to do so, by reason of its
depletion in membership owing to the Mexican war.
Aug. 19th, Bro. Eoe was appointed delegate to the Grand Lodge, and
instructed to "have engrafted in the new constitution that the Grand
Lodge pay the expenses of delegates, also that a provision be made for
four District Grand Masters." It was also resolved that it was the sense
of the Lodge that the Grand Lodge " should still continue to meet on the
rotary system."
An invitation to meet at Shawneetown in 1849, was extended. The
Lodge passed a resolution to the effect, that the Grand Lodge should con-
cur in the establishment of a " Supreme Grand Lodge of the United
States."
Dec. 27th, annual election, resulting as follows : A. G. Caldwell was
elected W. M. ; J. E. Rearden, S. W. ; W. A. Redman, J. W.; Robt. H.
Marron, Treas. ; Aaron R. Stout, Sec.; E. J. Nicholson and Job Smith,
Deacons.
PEORIA LODGE NO. 15.
This Lodge conferred the third degree upon five brethren during 1848,
viz. : Geo. Ford, Feb. 19th; Abner Shinn, Mar. 18th; Addison Ramsey,
Mar. 24th ; Henry Gilbert, Aug. 12th ; Joseph McClure, Oct. 20th.
April 15th, Bro. Frederick Semelroth was elected sexton of the ceme-
tery belonging to the Lodge. There is no record of election of officers in
1848, the last meeting recorded in that year being December 9th.
TEMPERANCE LODGE NO. 16.
This Lodge held no meetings during 1848.
MACOMB LODGE NO. 17.
Raisings during 1848 as follows: Jose Anderson, Jan. 1; John 0.
C. Wilson, Jan. 22; W. S. Hail and Geo. W. Head, Jan. 29; Beverly
R. Westfall and John G. Woodside, Jan. 12; W. W. Bristow, Feb. 11 ;
James Mitchell and John D. Hail, Feb. 19; Hugh Ervin, March 7;
James B. Kyle, March 27 ; Charles W. Wyne and W. B. Clarke, April 7;
W. H. Phelps, April 14 ; James Hunter, April 19 ; Thos. J. Beard, April
22; R. F. Anderson, April 24; Samuel Lewis, April 25 ; R. H. Broaddus,
June 9 ; J. L. N. Hall, June 16 ; J. L. Broaddus, June 20 ; G. L. Farwell,
June 21; J. S. Clarke, June 24; A. W. Lewis, Aug. 3; Jeremiah L.
Cross, Sept. 2.
Bro. William A. Dickey presided at the meetings of April 22 and 24,
and conferred the Master's degree upon Breth. Beard and R. F. Ander-
son. June 24, officers as follows were elected : J. E. Wyne, W. M.;
462 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
J. B. Kyle, S. W.; P. H. Walker, J. W.; W. Ervin, Treas.; R. F. Ander-
son, Sec.; C. W. Wyne, Tyler. Bro. W. T. Head was first elected S. W.,
but declined. Bro. Kyle was then elected. R. H. Broaddus and J. L.
Broaddus were appointed Deacons. Oct. 13, Bro. Walker was demitted,
when H. Ervin was elected J. W., to fill the vacancy caused by said de-
mission. Dec. 1, the college building and grounds which had been pur-
chased by the Lodge, were donated to the " Presbytery of the Old School
Church of Schuyler county," the Lodge reserving the right to appoint
one professor, who should, however, be an "Old School Presbyterian."
LAFAYETTE LODGE NO. 18.
The raisings reported during 1848, by this Lodge, were: C. P. Alba,
Chas. N. Dodge, Alvah Miller, Israel N. Martin, Win. V. Carpenter,
Benj. Johnson, Jacob Gauch, Jr., John G. Weld, James Robinson,
Rudolph Wohrle, Augustus F. Otto, D. C. Young, Geo. Lobstein, B. F.
Christy, H. Webber, R. E. Goodrich, John Grady.
Officers. — Carding Jackson, W. M.; Isaac N. Arnold, S. W.; J. C.
Miller, J. W.; H. W. Bigelow, Treas.; Isaac P. Hatfield, Sec.; Philip
Newburg, S. D.; J. L. Thompson, J. D.; V. W. Potter and John B. Weir,
Stewards; Nathan Christy, Tyler.
CLINTON LODGE NO. 19.
This Lodge raised one brother only during 1848, viz.: A. D. Vanmeter.
The officers (as returned to the Grand Lodge; were: John Bennett,
W. M.; Thos. S. Harris, S. W.; Samuel Smith, J. W.; Charles G. Brooks,
Treas.: A. F. Rainey, Sec.; A. B. White, Tyler.
HANCOCK LODGE NO. 20.
The charter of this Lodge appears to have been surrendered, but at
what time it is impossible to state. The records of the Lodge were
destroyed by fire in 1856, and the fire at Peoria in 1849 consumed all the
books and papers of the Grand Lodge, so that we are completely in the
dark as regards the surrender of the charter of this Lodge.
CASS LODGE NO. 23.
Raisings during 1848 as follows: Eli Houghton, G. S. Taylor, Philo
Norton. The return to the Grand Lodge shows that R. F. Kippinburg
was W. M.; J. B. Taylor, S. W.; John Scammon, J. W.; Thos. Eyre,
Treas.; Wm. Chapman, Sec.; G. S. Taylor, S. D.; T. J. Burns, J. D.; V. A.
Turpin and C. Sprague, Stewards; James McClure, Tyler.
ST. CLAIR LODGE NO. 24.
Two brethren were raised by No. 24 in the year 1848, viz.: William
H. Bennett, April 8: J. Collins Foster, Dec. 13.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS; 463
January 3, the following officers were elected: Cornelius Coglan,
T. Hinckley, S. W.; L. D. Turner, J. W.; John Mace, Treas.; C. G. Y.
Taylor, Sec.; Julius Raith, S. D.: G. W. Hook, J. D.; D. Wilson, Tyler.
Dec. 11, the following were elected: Alexander Reany, W. M.j Julius
Raith, S. W.; John Mace, J. W.; William M. Parker, Treas.; C. G. Y.
Taylor, Sec.; C. Coglan, S. D.; J. D. Evans, J. D.; D. Wilber, Tyler; L. D.
Turner, Marshal.
The Lodge held no meetings from June 14 to Dec. 11, 1848.
FRANKLIN LODGE NO. 25.
The following named brethren were reported as raised, in the return
of this Lodge for 1848: James M. Finley, William Hall, William Gil-
ham, John S. Fisher, John Finly, R. M. Waggoner, I. Lehman, Wm. R.
Wright, Wm. P. Campbell, A. Treislinger, Chas. Vancamp, Isaac E.
Warnack, Joseph Cook, Overton T. Corn, John C. Griffith, Wm. Finly,
Wm. II. Briggs.
The officers reported were: John Higham, W. M.; D. M. Kittinger,
S. W.; Geo. Willis, J. W.; Geo. Lebold, Treas.; G. R. Stocker, Sec.;
Henry Stoeckle, S. D.; James P. Burnes, J. D.: J. B. Smith, Tyler.
HIRAM LODGE NO. 26.
Four brethren received the sublime degree of Master Mason in No.
26 during 1848, viz.: Charles Clark, March 30; Reuben Baily, Aug. 23 ;
Levi Lane, Sept. 7 ; Joseph Henderson, Sept. 21.
Jan. 15, officers as follows were elected: Nelson D. Morse, W. M.:
William McMurtry, S. W.; S. G. Dean, J. W.; J. J. Jackson, Treas.;
J. B. Hoag, Sec.; James Price, Ass't Sec.; J. J. Hedstrom, Chaplain ;
Thomas Champion, Tyler. The following were appointed : J. M. Witt,
S. D.; Isaac Gulihur, J. D.
PIASA LODGE NO. 27.
The raisings, in the year 1848, by this Lodge, were as follows. S. Y.
McMasters, Feb. 14 ; Samuel Wade, Feb. 19 ; Geo. Frederick, May 16 ;
Geo. C. Wood, Aug. 8; Patrick Dunn, Sept. 12; B. C. Snyder, Oct. 6;
G. R. Scott, Oct. 30.
Sept. 7, Bro. Geo. T. Brown resigned as W. M., and on Sept. 12 Bro.
Timothy Souther was elected to fill the vacancy.
Dec. 15, the following officers were elected: N. G. Edwards, W. M.:
Thos. Brown, S. W.; B. C. Snyder, J. W.; L. S. Metcalfe, Treas.; B. F.
Sergeant, Sec.; C. Carpenter, Tyler. J. W. Schweppe and II. Weigler
were appointed Deacons.
464 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
MONROE LODGE NO. 28.
During 1848, this Lodge raised Valentine Werheim, Feb. 12.
At the July meeting (date not given) the following officers were elect-
ed : Emery P. Eogers, W. M.; James R. Axley, S. W.; John Morrison,
J. W.; William Simpson, Treasurer; Daniel Converse, Secretary ; Jere-
miah Coleman, S. D.; William Cowell, J. D.; William W. Wyles, Tyler.
PEKIN LODGE NO. 29.
Breth. John Filliken, Anson G. Henry, John H. Morrison, Joel E.
Jones, Win. Kriegar, Benjamin F. James, and Philander Pickard were
raised by this Lodge during 1848. The officers for 1848 were Benj. S.
Prettyman, W. M.; Turner R. King, S. W.; Daniel Taney, J. W.; Rev. A.
Woolston, Chaplain; D. B. Perkins, Treasurer; Samuel P. Bailey, Sec-
retary; William Wilkey and R. H. Snell, Deacons ; D. Corwin and E.
Jones, Stewards; Wm. Kriegar, Tyler.
MORNING STAR LODGE NO. 30.
Queers.— Charles W. Rockhold, W. M.; Barnet F. Ruble, S. W.; Jacob
W. Brewer, J. W.; Peter L. Snyder, Treasurer: John W. Shinn, Secre-
tary; E. W. Mitchell and Joseph Warders, Deacons; Michael B. Thorn,
Tyler.
The raisings reported are as follows : B. F. Ruble, A. W. Inman, Jos.
Warders, Jonathan Neis, J. W. Brewer, E. W. Mitchell, John W. Shinn,
M. B. Thorn, Marcus Kohn, Eli Taylor, Francis Mandlebaum.
MT. VERNON LODGE NO. 31.
The following brethren received the third degree in this Lodge during
1848 : John H. Watson, Jan. 3 ; Thos. H. Hobbs, Jan. 31 ; Asa B. Wat-
son, Feb. 7 ; Charles T. Pace, Mar. 6; Daniel Baltzell, June 5: John H.
Pace, Oct. 9 ; Wm. H. Lynch, Nov. 26 ; A. F. Dusenbury, Dec. 11.
No. 31 was earnestly in favor of the matter of schools for the education
of the children of deceased and indigent Masons. On the 10th Feb.
the Lodge passed resolutions to the effect that the Grand Lodge ought
to establish one such school in each grand division of the State, and
distribute to these schools the surplus of all funds on hand after pay-
ment of the expenses of the Grand Lodge in each and every year. Also,
to assess such dues upon each Master Mason as might be necessary to
support the schools. The schools were recommended to be "on the
manual labor system."
April 3, the Lodge resolved "to build a hall," and on the 8th April Breth.
J. H. Watson, Hobbs, and Short, were appointed a building committee.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 465
April 15, this committee reported in favor of the purchase of Lot No.
10, Block 19, and also in favor of erecting a building two stories high,
44 feet long, "due east and west" and 24 feet wide between the north
and south. Then follows a minute description of the manner in which
the edifice was to be erected. The " cornice &c.," was to be " similar to
that of Judge Scate's new store-house, except the gable end finish, which
shall be an arch, supported by two columns, with a Keystone in the
centre of the arch."
The following officers were elected June 24 : W. W. Bennett, W. M.;
R. F. Wingate, S. W.; James P. Haynes, J. W.; D. Baugh, Sec.; Daniel
Kinney, Treas.; C. T. Pace, Tyler.
July 3, a petition from a number of brethren for a new Lodge at Ben-
ton was recommended.
Dec. 11, it was reported to the Lodge that three children of a deceased
brother were in destitute circumstances, whereupon a committee was
appointed to take charge of them, with power to draw upon the treasury
from time to time, for their "support and protection."
ORIENTAL LODGE NO. 33.
This Lodge raised the following brethren during 1848 : Peter Har-
rington, Feb. 18; Hugh Fullerton and A. G. Burley, Feb. 26, James
McNair, Mar. 31 ; J. B. Arcan, April 7 ; A. L. Jacobus, April 21 ; F.
Rosenmerkle, May 5.
On the 4th of Feb. the petition of A. E. Ames, and " sundry other
brethren," for a new Lodge at Belvidere, Boone county, was recom-
mended.
Sept. 15th, the Lodge passed a resolution to the effect that the estab-
lishment of a Masonic school was a necessity, and requesting the Grand
Lodge to take action in regard to the same. The following officers were
elected Dec. 15. Geo. Davis, W. M. ; Wm. H. Davis, S. W.; J. A.
Reichart, J. W. ; A. G. Burley, Treas. ; L. P. Hilliard, Sec. ; C. Drake, S.
D. ; J. II. Pahlman, J. D.; Rev. Wm. Barlow, Chaplain; J. H. Bird, J-
V. Z. Blaney, W. B. Herrick (all doctors), Stewards ; N. Christie, Tyler.
BARRY LODGE NO. 34.
This Lodge raised two brethren to the third degree during 1848, viz. :
Isaiah Lewton and John Spencer. The officers for 1848 were Joseph
Jackson, W. M.; Elisha Hurt, S. W. ,; A. F. Bill, J. W. ; Jacob Myers,
Jr., Treas.; Lewis Angle, Sec.; David Shields, S. D. ; J. N. Love, J. D. ;
Alfred Grubb, Tyler.
CHARLESTON LODGE NO. 35.
The raisings by this Lodge, during 1848, were as follows : Geo. M.
Hanson, Feb. 15th; Alfred Pemberton, April llth; S. W. Quinn, April
466 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
18th,' A. K. Bosworth, June 23d; Arthur Collins, Robert Mosely, and
Washington Longnecker, June 24th; Stephen Wait, Sept. 12th; Wm.
Chandler and J. H. Apperson, Oct. 10th ; Wm. Tichenor, Nov. 7th ; U. F.
Linder, Dec. 20th; D. G. Burr, Dec. 23; M. Digby, Dec. 27th. There is
no record of the election of officers during this year.
KAVANAUGH LODGE NO. 36.
Two brethren were raised by this Lodge during 1848, viz. : John C.
Gardner and B. P. Miller, June 21.
Sept. 27, the following officers were elected : Wm. C. Smith, W. M. ; P.
G. Ames, S. W. ; Isaac S. Horr, J. W. ; Hiram Curtis, Treas. : Robert
Barker, Sec. ; John Cadman, S. D. ; Geo. W. Hepperly, J. D. ; James B.
Goble, Tyler.
MONMOUTH LODGE NO. 37.
The following brethren were raised during 1848, by No. 37: Henry
McAdams, Mar. 7th ; David Smith, 2d, April 18th : William Chapman,
May 10th; Benoni Merrifield — no date.
On the 2d January the death of Bro. Ezekiel Kent, Jr., was announced,
whereupon the customary resolutions were adopted. There appears no
record of his burial by the Lodge.
At the meeting of May 3d, Bro. Wm. A. Dickey was present, and con-
ferred the second degree upon Bro. William Chapman.
June 24th, officers as follows were elected : Richard D. Hammond, W.
M.; David Smith, S. W. ; Daniel T. Denman, J. W. ; Henry A. McCarty,
Treas.: Daniel C. McNeil, Sec.; Thomas W. Payne, S. D. ; Jeremiah
Massie, J. D. ; Daniel Markham, Tyler.
Breth. John A. Young, Samuel Webster, and Daniel C. McNeil, were
elected a Committee on "Grievances," and Breth. John A. Young, David
Smith, and Daniel C. McNeil, with Breth. Samuel Webster, Geo. W.
Palmer, and Jeremiah Massie, as alternates, were appointed a Committee
" on the Sick."
At the meeting of Sept. 19th, the W. M. was directed to obtain the
opinion of the Grand Lodge upon the question as to whether, after a com-
mittee upon a petition for initiation had reported favorably, the Lodge
could refuse to ballot upon the petition ; and also, if after a favorable bal-
lot, the candidate refuses or neglects to attend at the time appointed to
confer the degree to which he had been elected, what action was neces-
sary or proper on the part of the Lodge ; also, if the Lodge reconsider a
ballot once had, if the action of the Lodge places the matter in the hands
of the original committee for further investivation. This, in all proba-
bility, gave rise to Bro. Cabanis' resolution, (which was adopted by the
Grand Lodge) that the Lodge must proceed to ballot upon all petitions
presented, in due course of time.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
OLIVE BRANCH LODGE NO. 38.
This Lodge raised, during 1848, Brethren Isaac Delay, John B. Alex-
ander, Nimrod Price, Isaac Courtright, and Nathaniel Wilson. The
following brethren were reported as having died during this year : Stan-
ley Olmstead, Wm. C. Sconce, Isaac Delay. The officers for 1848 were :
Wm. E. Russell, W. M. ; Oliver L. Davis, S. W. ; L. R. Noel, J. W. ; J.
W. Mires, Treas.: John H. Sconce, Sec.: Othinel Gilbert, S. D. ; J. W.
Miller, J. D. ; Levi Cline and Reason Hoton, Stewards: Isaac Delay,
Tyler.
HERMAN LODGE NO. 39.
Raised during 1848 : Isaac Mills, E. McFarland, A. W. Blakesley.
Bro. Blakesley had been initiated and passed in Hancock Lodge pre-
vious to its surrender of charter, and on removing to Quincy, requested
Bro. 0. C. Skinner to ask for the third degree for him, intending to peti-
tion Bodley No. 1. By some mistake his petition went to No. 39, where
he was raised, and demitted the same evening. This accounts for his
affiliation with Bodley Lodge a few days afterwards. The officers of No.
39 during 1848, were : Charles Steinagle, W. M. ; C. Ruoff, S. W. ;
Fred. K. Beshore, J. W. ; Damon Hauser, Treas. ; H. H. Meier, Sec. ;
John Rentz and Ferdinand Flachs, Deacons ; D. Stahl, Tyler.
OCCIDENTAL LODGE NO. 40.
One brother was raised by No. 40, in the year 1848, viz. : B. B. Fel-
lows, Aug. 7th.
On the 17th of January the death of Bro. Selby Doolittle was announced
to the Lodge as having occurred on the 9th inst.
Aeg. 21st, the following officers were elected : William H. L. Wallace,
W. M.; B. C. Cook, S. W. ; II. W. Hopkins, J. W.; L. Leland, Treas.;
Wm. Osman, Sec.; John D. Caton and Wm. Reddick, Deacons; C. V.
Kelley, Chaplain; Wm. K. Brown, Tyler. These officers were not in-
stalled until February, 1849.
FAR WEST LODGE NO. 41.
This Lodge raised, during 1848, Breth. A. S. Gove, George Weiser,
Joseph Stickle, and John B. Coleman. The officers were. Geo. W. Wood-
ward, W. M. ; A. D. Boyce, S. W.; Wilmot Cady, J. W. : Joseph Harris,
Treas.; John E. Smith, Sec.; James Armour and Jas. M. Maughs, Dea-
cons; M. Fawcett, Tyler.
In the list of non-affiliated we recognize the names of a number who
were members of Far West Lodge when under the jurisdiction of Mis-
souri.
468 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
MT. JOLIET LODGE NO. 42.
We stated in a preceding chapter that it was our opinion that the dis-
pensation for this Lodge was derived from Grand Master Jonas. We
gave this opinion in the absence of any direct information in the matter.
But we were mistaken. The authority for this Lodge was originally de-
rived from Kentucky.
The dispensation was granted to Jacob Patrick, Norman Hawley,
Aaron Kinny, Orange Chancy, Justus Ward, and Myron K. Brownson,
and was dated Sept. 2, 1840. The first three of the above named breth-
ren were named as Master, Senior and Junior Wardens. The first meet-
ing was held at the "Great Western, in the town of Juliet." At this meet-
ing Amos Fellows was elected Treasurer, M. K. Brownson, Secretary ;
Orange Chancy and Eleazer Smith, Deacons; Hiram Blanchard, Tyler.
No other business was transacted at this meeting beyond the adoption
of a code of by-laws.
At the meeting of Dec. 26, 1840, the following officers were elected :
Aaron Kinny, W. M.; Norman Hawley, S. W.; Orange Chancy, J. W.;
Amos Fellows, Treas.; Myron K. Brownson, Sec.; and at the meeting of
Dec. 31st, the election was reconsidered, and it was " ordered" that the
" officers stand as before."
June 3, 1841, the Lodge assembled for the purpose of electing officers,
but the Secretary having been advised by the "Grand Lodge" that it
was not "according to antient usage to elect the principal officers U. D.,"
the matter was dropped as far as those officers were concerned. Maurice
Murphy was elected Secretary, and R. G. Cook, Treasurer. Breth. Wade
and Aldrich were appointed Deacons.
June 24,1841, was duly celebrated, " Bro. Bachelor " delivering an
address upon the " Principles of Masonry," he being followed by " Bro.
Davis" in a "very chaste and poetic discourse explanatory of the work-
ing tools of Free and Accepted Masons."
July 29, 1841, the Lodge ordered the returns to the Grand Lodge to be
made out, and requested by resolution, that the dispensation of the
Lodge be continued, and that the Lodge be recommended to the Grand
Lodge of Illinois for charter. Dec. 27, 1841, the Secretary was directed
to correspond with the Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Illinois
in regard to a charter.
The following named brethren were raised during 1841 : Jared Run-
yon and Joel George, Jan. 28; Fenner Aldrich, Feb. 4; Joel A. Matte-
son, Feb. 18; Thomas Williams and A. E.Ames, March 6 : David L.
Gregg, Mar. 25; William Fletcher, April 1 ; J. D. Norton, George Frary,
Thos. J. Kinney, and H. G. Brown, April 10; J. Finch, Jr., N. S. Ander-
son, Thos. J. Wade, and A. W. Herrick, April 22; James P. Quinn,
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 469
Samuel Anderson, May 15 ; Maurice Murphy, May 20 ; Ambrose O'Con-
nor, July 1 ; Richardson and Taylor, Aug. 26.
On the 16th of June, 1842, the Secretary reported that he had received
a charter for the Lodge from the Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of
Illinois, as Juliet Lodge No. 10. At this meeting Norman Hawley was
elected W. M.; Thomas J. Wade, S. W.; Joel George, J. W.; Fenner Aid-
rich, Treas.; J. Finch, Jr., Sec.
June 24, Breth. Orange Chancy and T. J. Kinney were appointed
Deacons; David L. Gregg and James Broady, Stewards, and Jared Run-
yon, Tyler.
Dec. 27, 1842, another election was held, resulting in the choice of
Norman Hawley as W. M.; E. Haren, S. W.; Joel George, J. W.; John
Broady, Treas.; T. J. Wade, Sec. The following appointments were
made : Jared Runyon and T. J. Kinney, Deacons ; R. G. Cook, Tyler.
Fourteen brethren were recorded as " withdrawn." But one brother was
raised in the year 1842, viz.: William E. Little, Jan. 20.
There is nothing of interest to note during 1843. The Lodge seems to
have been in a " bad way." No meetings were held during the months
of February, July, and August, and the election of officers at the regular
time, June 24, was allowed to go by default, there not being enough
members present to fill the offices.
Nov. 30, 1843, the Lodge proceeded to elect officers by a " viva voce "
vote, when William Smith was elected W. M.; Joel George, S. W.; Wm.
E. Little, J. W.; James Broady (or Brodee), Treas.; Thos. J. Wade, Sec.
Ni) work was done during the year.
At the meeting of Feb 1st, 1844 (Bro. Smith having declined), Bro.
Thomas J. Wade was elected W. M. The Lodge held but four meetings
during 1844, in January, in February (two), and the last the 29th March.
The next meeting on the record is that of June 19, 1845, at which an
election of officers was had, resulting as follows : Normand Hawley, W.
M.: Joel George, S. W.,- Wm. E. Little, J. W.; James Broadie, Treas.; N.
L. Hawley, Sec.; Jared Runyon and Thos. J. Kinney, Deacons; M. K.
Brownson, Tyler. Oct. 9th the Lodge met, and after transacting busi-
ness of the usual routine character, closed until the next regular. But
on the 15th October, Grand Master Walker revoked the charter, and im-
mediately after issued a dispensation for a new Lodge, naming William
E. Little as Master, Joel George as S. W., and David Parish as J. W.
This dispensation was granted to Breth. Aldrich, Little, Broady, Runyon,
Brownson, Kinney, George, Gregg, Matteson, Rucker, Parrish, and
Daniel Curtis, and authorized them to meet as " Mount Joliet Lodge
No. 10."
Nov. 13, the new Lodge held its first meeting, John Barney presiding.
No work beyond one passing was done during 1845.
470 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
Oct. 12, 1846, the charter granted by the Grand Lodge in lieu of the
charter revoked by Grand Master Walker, was presented to the Lodge
by Carding Jackson. Grand Master Walker's permission to retain the
number 10 was not approved by the Grand Lodge, who designated the
new Lodge by the number it now bears, viz.: 42. The Lodge was duly
constituted and its officers installed by Bro. Jackson.
Nov. 28th, the following officers were elected; Wm. E. Little, W. M.;
Joel George, S. W. ; Wm. Smith, J. W. ; D. Curtis, Treas. ; Uri Osgood,
Sec.; J. Runyon and T. J. Kinney, Deacons; W. W. Dean, Chaplain.
Two brethren were raised during 1846, viz. : Malachi Kennedy,
March 7th; Uri Osgood, Jan. 12th.
Dec. 16th, 1847, the following election took place : William Smith, W.
M. ; Joel George, S. W. ; James Broadie, J. W. ; Henry G. Brown, Treas. ;
Uri Osgood, Sec. ; Jared Runyon and Thos. J. Kinney, Deacons ; Malachi
Kennedy, Tyler.
The raisings during 1847, are as follows : ftWm. W. Dean, Jan. 9 ; Ed-
ward C. Gillett, Jan. 28; Richard Cox, March 15; Geo. Smith Crawford,
April 29.
On the 13th January, 1848, the officers elected in December were pub-
licly installed, " in the Universalist Church."
On the 15th April, 1848, the petition of Nelson D. Elwood was received,
and ordered filed. The petition was presented by Breth. Wm. E. Little
and James Broadie. On the 18th May he was elected and initiated, and
passed June 15.
Nov. 23, Bro. Wade was affiliated, he holding a demit from St. Johns
Lodge. There is no record of his demission from No. 42 to join St. Johns
Lodge.
Dec. 21,1848, the following brethren were elected officers : Uri Osgood,
W. M.; Nelson D. Elwood, S. W.; Wm. Smith, J. W. ; Thos. J. Kinney,
Treas.; Geo. S. Crawford, Sec.; Henry G. Brown and James S. Waite,
Deacons; William Adams, Robt. J. Cunningham, and Calneh Zarley,
Stewards; William E. Little, Tyler.
The raisings during 1848 were as follows : Wm. E. Woodward, April
26 ; Calneh Zarley, May 11 ; William Adams, May 19 ; James S. Waite,
June 15 ; Nelson D. Elwood, June 19; Samuel D. Smith, June 21 : Robt.
J. Cunningham, Aug. 18; Thos. Clements, Sept. 21.
BLOOMINGTON LODGE NO. 43.
The following named brethren received the Master's degree in
No. 43 during 1848: Elisha Harkness, Feb. 21: James E. Parker,
March 15; Malin C. Baker, April 13; James 0. Barnard, June 12: Geo.
W. Stipp, July 27; M. H. Hawks, Aug. 5; M. Z. Sayler, Aug. 10: L. S.
Majer, Sept. 12; Joel Depew, Sept. 16.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 471
May 15, the Lodge buried the remains of Bro. Bernard Thomas. June
13, the following officers were elected: John Foster, W. M.j Elijah
Depew, S. W.; A. Withers, J. W.; John Mayers, Treas.; S. B. Brown,
Sec.; W. C. Hobbs, S. D.; Hazo Parsons, J. D.; Eli N. Powell, Tyler.
Sept. 23, the delegate to the Grand Lodge was directed to vote for Bro.
J. R. Randall for the office of Grand Master, should his name be pre-
sented. The name should read Crandall, not Randall. A number of
instances appear upon the record before us of relief granted the widows-
of deceased Master Masons. These are not specified, as it is better by
far that such acts should be allowed to rest, in accordance with the
Scriptural injunction: "Let not thy left hand know what thy right
hand doeth."
HARDIN LODGE NO. 44.
This Lodge was organized July 23, 1847, by virtue of a dispensation-
granted by Grand Master Morse, bearing date July 5, 1847, issued to
" George Adams, John Bigler, Thos. J. Starr, and other brethren." The
three brethren named were Master, Senior and Junior Wardens. The
petition for this Lodge was recommended by Rushville Lodge No. 9.
July 23, the Lodge met and was duly opened on the first, second, and
third degrees. The brethren present were: Levi Lusk, P. G. M., who
presided; John Bigler, John Grim, S. H. B. Clarkson, John S. Baily,.
George Adams, James Wash, Kendrick, and John Brown. We.
presume that the Bro. Keudrick alluded to is Bro. John Kendrick, now
of No. 430.
After adopting a code of by-laws, Bro. J. S. Baily was elected Secre-
tary; John Brown, Treasurer; Breth. Grim and Wash were appointed
Deacons. After the reception of several petitions, the Lodge was closed.
The raisings by this Lodge during 1847 were as follows : Robert N.
Curry, Sept. 17; A. J. F. Prevoost, Sept. 22; J. S. Irwin and Angus-
McPhail, Sept. 25 (at this latter meeting Bro. Carding Jackson presided);
C. P. Slater, Oct. 7, who was raised by Samuel H. Davis, of Peoria Lodge
No. 15; G. M. Pickett and E. Wolf kill, Nov. 20; B. D. Stout, Jno.
Taylor, J. W. Price, and T. S. Adams, Dec. 30. '
Dec. 19, the following officers were elected : J. S. Irwin, W. M.;
A. J. F. Prevoost, S. W.; C. P. Slater, J. W.; R. N. Curry, Treas.; J. S.
Baily, Sec.; Geo. Adams and G. M. Pickett, Deacons; Angus McPhail,
Tyler. The Lodge was chartered at the session of the Grand Lodge in
1847, but no record of the reception of the charter, or of the constitution
of the Lodge, appears.
The following brethren received the third degree during 1848 : E. D.
Sweet, Jan. 14 : T. S. Brockman, Feb. 11 ; J. C. (or 0.) Hedingburg, Feb.
16; B. Bruce, April 7; Levin Marshal, April 14; A. L. Sweet, May 12;
Jas. Kendrick, July 15; James Bell, Aug. 11; John M. Adams, Dec. 11.
472 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
Dec. 8, 1848, the following officers were elected : John S. Baily,
W. M.; B. D. Stout, S. W.; Geo. M. Pickett, J. W.; John Bigler, Treas.;
James Brockman, Sec.; E. D. and A. L. Sweet, Deacons ; Levin Marshal,
Tyler.
Bro. Glenn has kindly furnished us with the following information:
" George Adams, first W. M., died on his way to California in 1849 or
1850; John Bigler, first S. W., went to California, became Governor,
beating Waldo, the Whig candidate, and afterwards was Senator in
Congress, Minister to Chili, etc.; I don't know what became of Thos. J.
Starr; John S. Baily was afterwards State's Attorney, Judge of 5th
Judicial Circuit, and is now a prominent attorney in Macomb, Illinois ;
Jarnes S. Irwin is now a leading attorney at Pittsfield, Pike county, 111 ;
S. H. B. Clarkson was a leading physician of Brown county, and has
been dead many years: Dr. John Grim is still living, I think in Adams
county, 111."
GRIGGSVILLE LODGE NO. 45.
Raised : B. B. Winters, J. R. Stanford, James Parker, A. R. Howser,
Thos. B. Morrison, Noah H. Cadwell, Elijah Stagg, George Lytle, A. H.
Morrison.
The officers for 1848 were : Timothy Fessenden, W. M.; Joshua Ward,
S. W.; Amos Hill, J. W.; J. D. Battles, Treas.; C. Regan, Sec.; Thomas
Plumb and Jonathan Frye, Deacons; Ebenezer May and Daniel Fisher,
Stewards; Wm. B. Scholl, Tyler.
TEMPLE LODGE NO. 46.
Raisings during 1848 as follows : George M. Leach, Jan. 26 : Leonard
K. Flunders, Feb. 9; William L. Evans, no date; William C. Innett and
James L. Fash, April 28; William Van Nelson, May 31; John T. Lind-
say and N. S. Tucker, June 10; John Bell, June 23: Thomas P. Ashe,
June 24 ; Brice Hays, July 26; Jason B. Streepy, Sept. 27; Joab W.
Moffitt, Oct. 19 ; Andrew Stevenson, Nov. 9. Bro. T. J. Wade was pres-
ent and presided at the meeting of June 7. Bro. J. W. S. Mitchell, P. G.
M. of Missouri, was present at the meeting of June 28.
Aug. 9, Bro. N. S. Tucker was elected Secretary to fill a vacancy caused
by the resignation of Bro. F. J. Briggs. Bro. Tucker has held the office
ever since, and is still Secretary of No. 46 ; having served the Lodge for
twenty-one years.
Nov. 29, Bro. J. R. Crandall was elected W. M., he receiving 12 votes,
Bro. Heyl 6, and Bro. Metcalf 1. Bro. J. P. Dennis was elected S.
W., the vote being Dennis 10, Taber 7, Heyl 1, and Stebbins 1. Bro.
Taber was elected J. W. on the first ballot, receiving 12 votes to 6 scat-
tering, but having declined, a second ballot was had, when Lindsay
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 473
received 7 votes, Van Nelson 1, Stebbins 5, Evans 1, Heyl 3, Stevenson
1, Rice 1. The third ballot resulted in the choice of Bro. John T. Lind-
say, he receiving 11 votes. Bro. Jacob Littleton was elected Treasurer,
receiving 16 votes. Bro. Tucker was elected Secretary without opposition.
Breth. Innet and Fash were elected Stewards, and Wm. Widenham, Ty-
ler. Breth. VanNelson and Evans were appointed Deacons.
CALEDONIA LODGE NO. 47.
Raised : Samuel Copeland, Isaac W. Fink, Henry H. Burnley, A. J.
Kuykendall, R. H. Warner, J. B. Harris, G. B. Massey, Hiram Boren,
John W. Rigby, John L. Barber, David Beaty, A. Youngblood, and J. Y.
Clemsen.
The officers for 1848 were George Hawpe, W. M. ; James S. Smith, S.
W.; John Dougherty, J. W. ; Joseph Street, Treas.; James B. Davidge,
Sec. ; J. B. Mabry and H. D. Riddle, Deacons ;• John W. Rigby, Tyler
UNITY LODGE NO. 48.
This Lodge made no returns to the Grand Lodge in 1848, consequently
we are unable to afford any information concerning it.
CAMBRIDGE LODGE NO. 49.
Raised : Michael Grant, Jas. M. Gilmore, Jas. G. Blithe, Joshua H.
Hatch, Morgan Ferguson, Amos F. Cutter, William Pettifer, Lewis M.
Webber, E. R. Beam, S. N. Birge, Jas. Vaughn, F. B. Gilmore, Robt.
Graham, Alex. C. Layne, Henry Safford, Jas. W. Brackett, Wm. Van-
dever, P. H. Jeffers, Wm. G. Cawthorn, H. R. Lewis, Spalding Cady.
The officers for 1848 were Stephen Cady, W. M. ; Roderick R. Stewart,
S. W. ; W. B. Smith, J. W. ; Michael Grant, Treas. ; R. D. Foster, Sec. ;
Quincy McNeil, S. D.j Daniel C. McNeil, J. D. ; Spalding Cady, Tyler.
CARROLLTON LODGE NO. 50.
The raisings by this Lodge in 1848, were: P. L. Bostic, J. D. Fry,
H. Keach, and T. W. Vigus. The officers were J. B. Samuel, W. M.;
E. A. Darcey, S. W.; D. M. Woodson, J. W.; D. B. Stith, Treas.; H. Du-
senbury, Sec.; L. W. Link, S. D.; G. B. Mason, J. D.; J. C. Winters,
Tyler.
MOUNT MORIAH LODGE NO. 51.
One brother was raised by this Lodge during 1848, viz.: 0. G. Moulton.
The officers were Ira Millard, W. M.; Ira Boone, S. W.; Jeremiah Hart,
J, W.; John J. Hillis, Treas,; Joseph H. Rolston, Sec,; M, J, BJockburger,
—34
474 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
S. D.; M'Kenzie Turner, J. D.: Josiah C. M'Henry and Wm. Shawn,
Stewards; Jacob Lingofelter, Tyler.
BENEVOLENT LODGE NO. 52.
We are unable to give the names of the brethren raised by this Lodge
during 1848, for the reason that they do not appear in the return to
the Grand Lodge, as published. The printer appended the following
note to the return :
" 4K5P"Few probably of the above names are correct, the handwriting being un-
intelligible. In the 'work ' of the return, there are 19 initiations, 16 passings,
and 15 raisings, making 50 names, all of which are omitted, for the reason spo-
ken of, to save further mutilation. — Printer."
The officers were : W. J. Wackerle, W. M.; Seth Wetherbe, S. W.; Daniel
Waldo, J.W.; Edward Naylor,Treas.; Edward Lusk, Sec.; S. S. Winegar,
8. D.; John W. Trour, J. D.; David Pangburn, Tyler.
JACKSON LODGE NO. 53.
Eaisings as follows : John S. Gordon, B. Durkee, Harvey Lee, John
T. Trimble, W. H. H. Hopkins, Letton Smith. The officers were Edward
Eavy, W. M.; W. D. Gage, S. W.; M. R. Chew, J. W.; Wm. Headen,
Treas.; John S. Gordon, Sec.; John T. Tremble, S. D.; B. Durkee, J. D.;
W. H. H. Hopkins, Tyler.
EECLAMATION LODGE NO. 54.
liaised. — V. E. Eemmigton, J. J. Piggott, Albert Stowe, Alex. Bartier,
John T. Wilber, Clark Wensor.
The officers were Daniel W. Pressell, W. M.; Alexander Sympson, S.
W.; Geo. W. Mosely, J. W.; J. J. Piggott, Treas.; Silas G. Strong, Sec.;
J. M. Cozad, and Alexander LeCroix, Deacons; Michael Degier, Tyler.
WASHINGTON LODGE NO. 55.
This Lodge raised seventeen brethren, as follows : Geo. T. Hoke,
John Weightman. Thomas H. Callaway, Darius Greenup, John D. Wood,
John C. Baker, Harvey Nevill, Samuel M. Carter, Elzey G. Coffey, Na-
hum W. Allen, Geo. W. Hotchkiss, Lewis N. Farmer, Wm. A. Lamb,
Jona J. Swanwick, Robert Cook, Stephen Green, Livesay Carter. The
officers were John G. Baker, W. M.; Thos. S. Roe, S. W.; Gabriel S.
Jones, J. W.: Alexander D. Hay, Treas.; Darius Greenup, Sec. (who has
held the office to the present time); John Weightman and George T,
Hoke, Deacons.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IK ILLINOIS. 475
PITTSFIELD LODGE NO. 56.
The officers of this Lodge for 1848 were : Michael J. Noyes, W. M.; R.
W. Scanland, S. W.; James F. Hyde, J. W.; James Ward, Treas.; James M.
Seeley, Sec.; Brown Corns tock and Chancey L. Higbee, Deacons; Wesley
J. Alkire, Tyler. No work was done during 1848.
TRIO LODGE NO. 57.
Raised. — James Dickson, Joseph M. Plumb, and C. C. Webber.
Officers.— P. A. Whittaker, W. M.; William Faris, S. W.; Joshua H.
Hatch, J. W.; H. Safford, Chap.; Benj. F. Barrett, Treas.,- Samuel N.
Birge, Sec.; James G. Blythe and Robert Graham, Deacons; Wm. Van-
dever and J. Vaughn, Stewards; Wm. Pettifer, Tyler.
FRATERNAL LODGE NO. 58.
Officers.— Peter K. Hull, W. M.; William LaFarge, S. W.; Robert Car-
lyle, J. W.; John P. Tenbrook, Treas.; Wm. Marquiss, Sec.; James S.
Patterson, and J.C.Johnson, Deacons; Samuel Bender, Tyler. Ten
brethren were initiated and four passed, but no work was done on the
third degree.
NEW BOSTON LODGE NO. 59.
The brethren raised by this Lodge, during 1848, were: E. D. Morgan,
Luke Webb, Mikel Puffinbarger, John Frailey, James Gibson, E. S.
Denison. The officers were L. 0. Allen, W. M.; Joseph Alexander, S. W.;
John Allen, J. W.; E. D. Morgan, Treas.; Daniel Winslow, Sec.; Luke
Webb and John Frailey, Deacons ; Mikel Puffinbarger, Tyler.
BELVIDERE LODGE NO. 60.
Oncers.— Alfred E. Ames, W. M. ; Amos Witter, S. W. ; Nijah Hotsh-
kiss, J. W. ; Asa Williams, Treas. ; Joel Florida, Sec. ; N. W. Birge and
Daniel Howell, Deacons; Hezekiah Ripley and John Curtis, Stewards;
James Johnson, Tyler.
Raised. — Daniel Howell, John W. Green, Isaac Benson, N. W. Birge
Joel Florida, David Hammers, Lester H. Magher.
LACON LODGE NO. 61.
Raised. — Silas Ramsey, John S. Pride, George Dysart, John H. Mason.
Officers.— William Fenn, W. M. : Abner Shinn, S. W. ; Addison Ram-
sey, J. W. ; John S. Pride, Treas. ; Silas Ramsey, Sec. ; John W. Baxley
and George Dysart, Deacons ; William White, Tyler.
476 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
JERUSALEM LODGE NO. 62.
Oncers.— William Little, W. M. ; Dan. Higley, S. W. ; Samuel Mc-
Farland, J. W. : C. Burr Artz, Treas. and Sec. ; Hiram Cutts and John B.
Cheney, Deacons ; Emanuel Morrison, Tyler.
This Lodge initiated eleven, and passed seven, but did no work on the
third degree.
ST. MARK'S LODGE NO. 63.
Raised. — Derick C. Bush, Edward S. Peckham, Andrew J. Hayward,
Henry M. Wait, Elzaphan I. Smith, E. E. Wightman, Alex. S. Lansing,
James R. Mick.
Officers.— John. F. Gray, W. M. ; Luke Coon, S. W. ; Calvin Serl, J. W.;
E. I. Smith, Treas.; D. C. Bush, Sec.; Jonathan Bliss and George W.
Dana, Deacons; Cornelius Lansing and Nicholas Lansing, Stewards;
Edward S. Peckham, Tyler.
BENTON LODGE NO. 64.
This Lodge did no work during the year 1848. The officers were
Samuel K. Casey, W. M. ; Geo. W. Akin, S. W.; Walter S. Akin, J. W.;
Isaac Mulkey, Chaplain; T. B. Cantrell, Treas. ; R. E. Yost, Sec.; Isaac
Mulkey, S. D. ; Wm. S. Crawford, Tyler.
CHAPTER XXIIL
1849.
GRAND LODGE.
Soon after the close of the Grand Lodge for the year 1849, the records,
books, papers, «fcc., which had been transferred to the keeping of Bro.
Thos. J. Pickett, who had been appointed Grand Secretary, to fill the
vacancy caused by the death of Bro. William Mitchell, were destroyed
by fire, and with them the minutes of the communication of the Grand
Lodge. Grand Master Hobbs called an extra session of the Grand Lodge,
to meet at Springfield, on Monday, April 8, 1850, to restore, as far as
practicable, the records.
That session has ever since been denominated "The Grand Loodge of
Recovery," and the proceedings of the Grand Lodge for 1849 will be pre-
sented with the proceedings of that communication.
BODLEY LODGE NO. 1.
The following were raised during 1849 : Louis Warner, March 5; Eli
Seehorn, April 5 ; Joseph Campbell, Nov. 26.
Feb. 27, Breth. Luce, Ralston, and Dills were appointed a committee
to confer with Herman Lodge and "the Chapter" relative to the pro-
priety of purchasing a lot and " erecting a building for Lodge uses."
March 19, the Committee on Library, appointed at a previous meeting,
reported, recommending the purchase of "Oliver's Historical Land-
marks," and " Preston's Illustrations," which books the Lodge author-
ized the committee to purchase " when said books can be found." April
16, a resolution to dispense with martial music at funerals was " re-
jected," and a resolution to celebrate St. John's Day was also lost.
May 11, a committee of conference with "the Chapter" and Herman
Lodge, regarding celebration of 24th June, was appointed. May 28, the
Lodge subscribed for ten shares of stock " for the erecting of a Masonic
478 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
Hall." July 16, the Lodge passed appropriate resolutions in regard to
the death of Samuel H. Davis, and ordered them forwarded to the
Masonic Review for publication. July 23. — At this meeting we find
recorded resolutions commemorative of the virtues of Breth. Chapin
Allen, who died on the 17th, and Enoch Conyers, who died on the 21st
July. The record informs us that these brethren were buried on the
18th and 22d July respectively. After passing resolutions of sorrow,
regret, and sympathy, the following "Letter of Condolence" was sent to
the widows of the departed brethren, accompanied with the resolutions :
" Respected Madame, and Friends :
" Bodley Lodge No. 1, of Ancient, Free, and Accepted Masons, in the beneficent
spirit of the bond of their mystic Order, has charged the undersigned com-
mittee with the responsibilities disclosed in the accompanying resolutions,
which we had the honor to report, and the Lodge unanimously to adopt. The
subject and occasion of this preamble and these resolutions render the duty of
commiseration and condolence, with which we are charged, almost mournfully
pleasant. It is ever a sorrowful spectacle which the winding sheet, the pall, the
hearse, and the grave present; when the great and good have fallen ; when the
fathers are garnered up to their final rest, and the mourners go about the streets.
"But although it is a mournful scene, we are not called upon to mourn as
those who have no hope. It is pleasant to contemplate the profound peace, the
sacred calmness, the awakening slumber, of those who, puttinsr th^ir trust in
God, confidingly commit their bodies to the grave, in the hopf- r f a Missful im-
mortality. And it is indeed sorrowful, yet pleasant, in the midi-t of earth's desola-
tions and death scenes, when the beloved and bereaved objects of the deceased,
while in life the subject of ' every care and each fond caress,' stand around his
narrow house, encircled by the attendant brotherhood whose hearts and hands
attest the sincerity of their sorrow and sympathy, to hear the impressive orison
for the lamented dead, as united they send up the thrice concentrated sympa-
thies of the hearts of the mystic Order, 'our brother is dead; his spirit is gone
to God above; his body we consign to the silent grave.'
" To the bereaved companions of our respective worthy brothers, we can only
add to the expression of our sympathy the promise of cheerful aid. He who
has promised to be a husband to the widow, and a father to the fatherless, who
is our elder brother, and a friend that sticketh closer than a brother, will not
forsake you in this your time of need. The orphan heart may well say,
'Though my father leave me, and my mother forsake me, God has kindly taken
me up.' It is the pride and purpose, as it is the promise, of our ancient Order,
to protect and provide for the widow and orphan, and thus verify the words of
wisdom, ' I have been young, but now am old, yet have I never seen the
righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.'
"We feel assured that the unselfish soul rises above the contracted scenes
and centre of earthly suffering and sorrowing, and may find some solace in the
reflection, that if to the departed,
"'This life was but a torrid day,
Scorched by the wind and sun,
And death is the calm, cool night,
When the weary day is done,'
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 479
"'Our loss is their infinite gain.' God's will, not ours, be done. In the im-
pressive language of our ancient rites and ritual, 'May we be so imbued with
the spirit of all grace, that with one heart and voice we may in conclusion join,'
' So mote it be.' Fraternally yours,
"SAM'L BUTTON,")
SAM'L HOLMES, }- Committee."
C. A. WARREN. )
Sept. 17, the Lodge directed its delegate to the Grand Lodge to use his
influence in having Bro. James H. Luce appointed Dist. Dep. Grand
Master, provided the new constitution (which had been approved by
Bodley Lodge), should be adopted. Oct. 29, a resolution to purchase a
set of "gold or silver jewels " at an expense not exceeding one hundred
dollars, was lost. Dec. 26, the following officers were elected : Louis
Watson, W. M.: Warren A. Reed, S. W.; Thomas E. Durant, J. W.;
Samuel Hutton, Secretary; Q. S. Barton, Treasurer.
EQUALITY LODGE NO. 2.
No work, beyond one initiation, was done during 1849.
June 24, the following officers were elected viva voce : John Howard,
W. M.,- E. Holeman, S. W.; J. M. Burnett, J. W.,- William Siddall,
Treas.; W. H. Crawford. Sec.; J. E. Watkins, S. D.; Joshua Bradley,
J. D.; S. S. Scudder, Tyler. On the 27th December another election
was held, when Bro. Siddall surrendered control of the keys to grasp
the gavel; John L. Campbell was elected S. W.; Bro. Holeman was
removed from the west, and became the Pillar of Beauty; Bro. John
Howard exchanged places with Bro. Siddall, surrendering the gavel and
receiving the keys; while Bro. Crawford still continued his labors as
Secretary; Breth. Watkins and Burnett were elected Deacons; J. D.
Cummings, Tyler.
HARMONY LODGE NO. 3.
The following brethren were raised by No. 3 during 1849 : W. K.
Lindsay, March 13 ; E. W. Roberts, March 16 ; W. F. Boyakin, March
20 ; Peter T. Cassell, March 23 ; R. T. McGowen, June 15 ; William Mc-
Evers, Aug. 9 ; John Scott, Sept. 24.
June 4, Bro. Boyakin was requested to deliver (in the lodge-room) a
sermon from Romans, first and twentieth verses.
Aug. 20, the Lodge buried the remains of Bro. George Craig.
Sept. 3, on motion of Bro. E. R. Roe, formerly of No. 14, but who had
affiliated with No. 3 during 1849, the delegate to the Grand Lodge was
directed to " v«>t«; that the new Grand Lodge in the State of New York
are a clan.lestine body, if the facts turn out as they are now reported."
The officer.-! el""'ed at the December meeting were as follows : Wm. C.
Swett, \V. M.: W. S. Hurst, S. W.; N. English, J. W. ; A. C. Dickson,
Sec.; Win. N. HOPS, Treas.; W. W. Happy and Cyrus Epler, Deacons;
Jno. S. Roberts, Tyler.
480 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
SPRINGFIELD LODGE NO. 4.
The raisings by this Lodge for the year 1849 were fifteen in number, as
follows: G. B. Goudy, Jan. 3; J. C. Henkle, Jan. 29; C. L. Camp and
D. M. VanDeren, Feb. 5; William Pickering, Feb. 9 ; Eri C. Dorwin,
March 26; E. M. Henkle, April 7; William Carpenter and Talbot,
May 26; Benj. Talbot and H. J. Grimsley, July 7; Peter Babeuf, Sept.
8; James F. Vaughn and Shelton Ransdell, Sept. 22 ; John Davis, Oct. 29.
March 5, the petition of W. A. Dickey, " and others," for a new Lodge
in Springfield, to be called " Central," was duly recommended.
April 15, the Lodge buried the remains of Bro. Francis Asbury, " a stran-
ger within her gates, who died on Wolf Creek, in Sangamon Co., on the 4th
inst. His remains were followed to the grave and buried with Masonic
honors, in ample form, M. W. G. Master Lavely presiding." The record
informs us that Bro. Asbury was from London, Madison county, Ohio.
At the meeting of 26th May, a committee was appointed to prepare
resolutions in relation to the the death of Brethren 8. R. Baker and
James Leggott. The committee made no report, as far as indicated by
the record, neither is there any evidence of the burial, by the Lodge, of
these brethren.
July 30, a petition for a new Lodge at Carlinville was recommended.
Dec. 11, the Lodge buried the remains of Bro. Henry C. Remann, late
of Temperance Lodge No. 16.
Dec. 27, the following officers were elected : J. W. Keyes, W. M. ;
Mason Brayman, S. W. ; Grover Ayres, J. W. ; J. Adams, Sec. ; William
Lavely, Treas. ; Balsar Hiki, Tyler. At the meeting of Dec. 29, Breth.
J. H. Matheny and Dudley Wickersham were appointed Deacons.
FRIENDSHIP LODGE NO. 7.
Raisings during 1849 as follows : William Stadden, March 9 ; Francis
Pickle, March 17; John D. Eustace, July 12; Walton Klintop, July 19;
Edwin Klintop, Nov. 2 ; E. Wheeler Branch, Nov. 13.
At a meeting held Feb. 1st, 1849, the Lodge decided that upon trial of
any brother, upon charges preferred against him, the testimony of per-
sons not Masons could not be admitted.
May 31, Bro. R. B. Loveland was elected W. M. ; H. Preston, S. W. ; C.
T. Chase, J. W. ; Lorenzo Wood, Treas.; A. N. Tuttle, Sec.; L. Wynkoop,
S. D.; James Campbell, J. D. ; D. B. McKenny, Tyler.
MACON LODGE NO. 8.
The following named brethren received the third degree in No. 8,
during 1849: W. C. Hill, April 7: E. Richards, April 21 ; J. P. Mitchell,
May 29 : Pavjd Robinson, July 2 ; John Sawyer, July 28; John Carter,
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 481
Aug. 11 ; B. F. M. Packard, Aug. 26 ; John Ricketts, Aug. 29 ; Henry
Lehman, Oct. 23 ; Luther Hill, Nov. 24; J. W. Bates and Ambrose Hall,
Dec. 28. At the meeting of Jan. 6, Breth. C. II. Pringle and W. J. Con-
dell were appointed Deacons. The Committee on Finance reported
$83.22 in the Treasury. Breth. King, Prather, and W. W. Oglesby were
appointed a committee "on the sick." Bro. Dickey was present at the
meeting of July 3, and lectured the Lodge on the three degrees. At the
meeting of Sept. 12 it was resolved to collect for the educational fund
" fifty cents from each member of this Lodge, and one dollar from each
Mason in this vicinity not a member, and inform the Grand Lodge the
money is ready whenever they adopt a plan for the use of the same." The
Lodge refused to send a delegate to the Grand Lodge.
Nov. 24, a petition for a new Lodge at Mount Pulaski was recom-
mended. At this meeting the following officers were elected; H. J.
Armstrong, "W. M.; Wm. F. Stamper, S. W.; William J. Condell, J. W.:
Joseph King, Treas.; E. J. Rice, Sec.; D. P. Bunn, Chap.: David Rails,
Tyler.
RUSHVILLE LODGE NO. 9.
The raisings reported by this Lodge, in its return to the Grand Lodge
for 1849, are as follows : Samuel Boring, William McMurphy, Nathan
Moore, Charles L. Wolf, William Easly, William London, E. J. Brickie,
Jesse J. Darnell, Alex. Montgomery, Isaac S. W. Wright, Samuel Leon-
ard, Newton DeWitt, William Ellis, E. W. C. Allen, Joseph Allen, and
R. Lost.
The officers were John C. Bagby, W. M.; Samuel McCreary, S. W.:
Hart Fellows, J. W. ; John B. Seeley, Treas; Nathan Moore, Sec.:
Samuel Leonard and Isaac S. W. Wright, Deacons: David Martin, Tyler.
ST. JOHN'S LODGE NO. 13.
The return of this Lodge for 1849 shows that Breth. Robert Adams,
Peter Bowers, William Lyman, George Turpening, Philip K. Behrend,
Adam Johnson, and Erasmus Winslow, were raised during that year.
The following deaths were also reported: H. W. Baker, William J.
Cox, Henry L. Owens, D. M. Richardson, Herman Whitehead, Dwight
M. Biker, and John Pentland.
The officers were George W. Gilson, W. M.: David Perry, S. W.: John
Morris. J. W.: Warren Brown, Sec.; William Paul, Treas.; P. M. Kil-
duffand H. W. Baker, Deacons; Robert Adams and J. D. Cavnow, Stew-
ards; Jason H. Sedgwick, Tyler.
—35
482 HISTORY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS.
WARREN LODGE NO. 14.
The following named brethren received the third degree in this Lodge
during 1849: James Grundon, March 28; J. S. Rearden, June 16: An-
drew McCallin, Oct. 13; H. F. Delany, Oct. 18.
June 9, the petition of Bro. McCook, for a new Lodge at Elizabeth-
town, was recommended.
Sept. 15, the delegate to the Grand Lodge was directed to "resist all
propositions for the establishment of a central system of education, and
favor all projects for placing the education fund under the administra-
tion of the respective subordinate Lodges." Bro. H. G. Reynolds appears
as a visitor at this meeting.
Nov. 3, the Lodge resolved that its members wear the usual badge of
mourning for thirty days, as a token of respectrfbr the memory of Wil-
liam Mitchell, Grand Secretary, deceased.
Nov. 23, a brother was tried on charges brought against him and "in-
definitely expelled."
Dec. 27, the following officers were elected: J. E. Rearden, W. M. :
Aaron R. Stout, S. W.; John T. Knox, J. W.; Andrew McAllin, Treas. :
J. S. Rearden, Sec.; Wm. A. Redman and H. H. M Butt, Deacons.
PEORIA LODGE NO. 15.
Three brethren were raised during 1849, viz. : Washington Corring-
ton, April 7; E. F. Nowland, May 5; J. W. Hitchcock, Dec. 22.
Sept. 21, the delegate to the Grand Lodge was instructed to vote
"against having anything to do with the Macomb College."
Dec. 29, the following officers were elected: Thos. J. Pickett, W. M :
C. R. Hall, S. W.; Thomas Wren, J. W.; Peter Sweat, Treas.: Theodore
A. Walker, Sec.; William Widenham, Tyler.
TEMPERANCE LODGE No. 16.
We take the following from the address of Grand Master Lavelv.to
the Grand Lodge, at its session of 1849, in regard to this Lodge :
"On the 22d September, the charter, books, and working tools of Temperance
Lodge No 16, were surrendered to me by Bro. W. M. Black, late Master thereof,
with the following letter from him :
" ' VANDALIA, ILL., September 12, 1849.
"'•Dear Sir and Brother: — As Master of Temperance Lodge No. 1C, one year
• ago, I asked in behalf of said Lodge, permission from the Grand Lodge to sus-
pend work for one year, which request the Grand Lodge kindly granted. At thafr
time, myself and other brethren here, thought that we would be able to resume-
work ere this; but I regret to say that sm-h is not the case; owing to the uni
timely death of two of the brethren, viz.; Bros. W. F. Edmonson and James M.'
Scott; and in the absence of the secretary (who has removed to Ohio), I here--
with transmit to you the charter, books, jewels, and working tools of said Lodge, "
which you will please return to the Grand Secretary or lay the same before the •
Grand Lodge.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 483
"'In hehalf of the brethren of vud Lodge, and for myself, I return to you,
and through you to the Grand L ige, our sincere and heartfelt thanks for their
forbearance and kind attention to onr wishes as expressed at their last Grand
Communication. The brethren here, including myself, would be pleased to
have such action in regard to the relinquishment of our jewels and working
tools (which are of some value) to the Grand Lodge, so that in the event of our
being able to again reorganize our Lodge within a few years, we may reclaim
them.
'"Yours fraternally,
'"W. M. BLACK,
" ' Late Master Temperance Lodge No. 1C.
'"To M. W. WILLIAM LAVBLT, G. L. Ills.'
"The charters, books, and jewels have been delivered to the R. \V. Grand Sec-
retary. The working tools being rather cumbersome, I could not conveniently
bring them up. They are deposited with Springfield Lodge No. 4."
MACOMB LODGE NO. 17.
Raised. — Theodore McLaughlin, June 25.
Feb. 2, the Finance Committee reported the balance in the treasury to
be $155.41.
June 25, the following election took place: James B. Kyle, W. M.; J.
L. N. Hall, S. W.; H. Ervin, J. W,; Win. Ervin, Treas.; Wm. S. Hail,
Sec.; C. W. Wyne, Tyler.
July 4, the Lodge "formed a procession, and marched to the Presby-
terian Church to hear Bro. R. Harris deliver a discourse on the subject of
education.
Aug. 3, Bro. Harris was appointed as one of the professors of the col-
lege, the right to make this appointment being one of the conditions
upon which the college was donated to the "Presbytery of Schuyler
county."
LAFAYETTE LODGE NO. 18.
From the return of this Lodge to the Grand Lodge for 1849, we learn,
that Brethren U. S. Dodge, L. Barber, M. Greenebaum, William Reynolds,
G. G. Golmar, L. A. Doolittle, A. B. Kellogg, H. K. Taylor, E. T. VanAl-
stine, J. H. Waterman, and Peter H. Bigelow, were raised during that
year, and that the officers were Carding Jackson, W. M.; J. C. Miller, S.
W.: Phillip Newburg, J. W.; H. W. Bigelow, Treas.; I. P. Hatfield,
Sec.; Jacob Gauch, Jr., and William A. Begole, Deacons; Heman Hatch
and J. G. Howe, Stewards; Nathan Christy, Tyler.
The following deaths were reported: Augustus Garrett, William N.
Carpenter, Henry Brown, N. W. Watson.
CLINTON LODGE NO. 19.
According to the return of this Lodge to the Grand Lodge for 1849, lif-
teen brethren were raised during that year, viz.: W. Snyder, J. T.
Jenkins, S. .S. Hussey, W. Richards, J. G. Long, J. G. Rogers, A. J.
484 HISTORY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS.
Brooks, E. Steiner, Aaron Wheeler, B. J. Peaceall, W. B. Goodpasture,
W. H. McMurphy, J. G. Green, D. A. Brown, G. 0. Washburn.
The officers for the same year were Thomas L. Harris, W. M.; C. G.
Brooks, S. W.; A. D. Wright, J. W.; Thomas Peake, Treas.; John Ben-
net, Sec.; Samuel Smith and A. J. Brooks, .Deacons; A. B. White, Tyler.
Bro. S. T. Perrines is reported to have died.
HANCOCK LODGE NO. 20.
Charter surrendered.
WARSAW LODGE NO. 21.
Charter surrendered.
CASS LODGE NO. 23.
Raised.— John A. Rhineberger, H. H. Hall, C. H. C. Hafecluft.
Died. — Ezro J. Dutch.
Officers.— R. F. Kippenburg, W. M.; John B. Taylor, S. W.; John W.
Seaman, J. W.; John McConnell, Chaplain, Thos. Eyre, Treas.; William
Chapman, Sec.; G. S. Taylor and Thomas J. Burns, Deacons; James Mc-
Clure, Tyler.
ST. CLAIR LODGE NO. 24.
One brother was raised by this Lodge during 1849, viz.: Thompson
Williams, Dec. 28.
May 19, Bro. Taylor resigned as Secretary, and was demitted, Bro. C.
Coghlan being elected to take his place. But six meetings were held by
the Lodge during this year, January 6th, May 19th, Nov. 8th, Dec.
12th, at which meeting the following officers were elected: Julius
Raith, W. M.; L. D. Cabane, S. W.; John Mace, J. W.; Healy,
Treasurer; J. C. Foster, Secretary; C. G. Y. Taylor and David Miley.
Deacons; David Wilber, Tyler. Brother Taylor never having received
the demit voted him May 19, was permitted to withdraw his application
therefor; the other two meetings were December 28 and 29.
FRANKLIN LODGE NO. 25.
Officers. — Daniel M. Kittenger, W. M.; John S. Fisher, S. W.: George
R. Stocker, J. W.; George Lebold, Treasurer ; Eliakim Thorp, Secretary :
John B. Smith and John C. Griffith, Deacons; Thomas Starks, Steward'
Horace G. Hibbard, Tyler.
Raised. — Woodward J. Moody, David Settlemeiers, Daniel Steward'
R. H. Kimball, D. M. Highfill, E. M. Hazard, E. Dodge, Horace G. Hib-
bard, Lewis W. Moor, Jacob Judy, Stanton Hazard, William Elwell'
M. A. Low, Thomas W. Jones.
Died. — Jacob Rader.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
HIRAM LODGE NO. 26.
The following raisings were had by No. 26 during 1849 : Adam Rapp,
Feb. 1; Alexander Ewing and Robert C. Price, Feb. 21 ; James E. Hale
and L. Dow Montgomery, Feb. 24 ; Thos. Tate, March 8: Oren Clark,
March 24; Tileson, July 25: James Brown, : Benjamin
Maysey, Dec. 3.
Jan. 4, the following officers were elected : William McMurtry, W. M.:
J. M. Witt, S. W.; James Price, J. W.; E. S. Cooper, Treasurer; L. C.
Lane, Secretary; R. L. Hannaman, Ass't Sec.; Thomas Tate, Tyler.
March 8, Breth. N. D. Morse, James E. Hale, Robert C. Price, L. D.
Montgomery, Alexander Ewing, Francis Oilman, and William Easley
were recommended to the Grand Master for a dispensation for a " travel-
ing Lodge to the Territory of California, to be called the Pacific Lodge."
April 14, a petition for a new Lodge at Knoxville was recommended.
PIASA LODGE NO. 27.
Raised during 1849 as follows : C. Skillman, Jan. 8; A. B. Plait, April
24; A. W. Nason, June 9 ; Thomas J. Shields, June 21; James Moore
and James Pomeroy, Sept. 4; J. J. Richmond, Sept. 14 : J. N. Bailhache,
Dec. 18.
Jan. 2, Bro. Schweppe offered the following amendment to the by-
laws : .
"And if one black ball shall be. found, the ballot box shall pass round again, to
a«certain if the black ball was not put in through mistake, and if found again,
the W. Master shall call upon the brother voting the black ball to state his
objection to the candidate, and if they are of a personal nature and through
personal pique, the Lodge shall have power to waive them."
Jan. 8, this amendment was adopted.
Feb. 6, the vote adopting the amendment was reconsidered and the
matter ordered to "lay over." At this meeting a committee was ap-
pointed to investigate certain charges preferred against the Lodge to the
Grand Master, " for charging a fee for conferring side degrees."
March 6, Bro. Schweppe's amendment to the by-laws was taken up
and referred to Breth. Bailhache, McMasters, and Ketcham. May l,the
brother who preferred charges against the Lodge for the reason hereto-
fore mentioned, stated that he had been laboring under a misapprehen-
sion, and withdrew the charges. Nov. 23, we find that a committee was
appointed to prepare an "obituary notice" of the death of Bro. James
Pomeroy, which is the only notice on record of that brother's decease.
Dec. 18, the following officers were elected: B. C. Snyder, W. M.;
Thomas Brown, S. W.; B. F. Sargeant, J. W.: L. S. Metcalfe, Treasurer:
John N. Bailhache, Secretary; C. Carpenter, Tyler.
486 HISTORY OP MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
MONROE LODGE NO. 28.
The raisings by this Lodge during 1849, were: W. E. Clark and
Calvin Johnson, April 7 : Charles Howard, July 28.
But five meetings were held by the Lodge during the year.
PEKIN LODGE NO. 29.
The following raisings were made by this Lodge during 1849, viz.:
Garratt Lawrence, March 6; R. H. Hardy, March 17: Benj. Buck and
R. W. Briggs, March 31 ; John Lehnert, Nov. 8.
April 3, the Lodge buried the remains of Bro. E. S. Marsh. At the
meeting of June 2, Bro. B. S. Prettyman was elected W. M. ; M. Tacka-
berry, S. W. ; Bernard Bailey, J. W. ; Abraham Woolston, Treasurer;
Benj. Buck, Secretary ; William Snyder, Tyler.
At the meeting of Dec. 1, eighteen brethren were fined twenty-five
cents each, for non-attendance.
MORNING STAR LODGE NO. 30.
This Lodge was organized Dec. 14, 1843. At this, the first meeting of
the Lodge, the following named brethren were present: Aaron Kinney,
W. M.; Samuel Gould, S. W.; Hervey Smith, J. W.; G. H. Hickman,
Samuel Christy, John Budd, Joshua Brace, who are recorded as hailing
from " Farmington Lodge." Of this Lodge (Farmington) we can obtain
no information beyond the fact that it was at a later day merged in
No. 30. The following visiting brethren from Peoria Lodge No. 15, were
present : Samuel H. Davis, Augustus 0. Garrett, Andrew M. Hunt, Na-
than Stephens. The W. M., S. and J. W. were duly installed, and Bro.
Samuel Christy passed and raised.
Dec. 27, Breth. J. Budd was appointed Secretary, G. H. Hickman and
S. Christy, Deacons.
Oct. 22, 1844, we find the following resolution :
" On motion of G. H. Hickman, it was unanimously
" Resolved, That if it meet the approbation of the Grand Lodge, that this Lodge
do hereafter hold its meetings at Canton, 111."
The meetings of the Lodge up to this time had been held at Farming-
ton. Nov. 19, the first meeting of the Lodge at Canton was held. At
this meeting Hugh Lamaster (made in Frontier Lodge about the year
1820), Daniel H. Dewey, David M. Smith, James Kykendall, Henry
Clark, John Thatcher, Josiah Stillman, J. M. Bass, N. B. Childs, Adam
Brewer, and John Williamson, late members of Farmington Lodge, were
affiliated. We find in (he record that " the Worshipful Master, Aaron
Kinney, died Jan. 19, 1845, aged about 48 years."
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 487
Jan. 22, the remains of Bro. Kinney were buried, Bro. S. H. Davis
acting as "VV. M.
Oct. 11, 1845, the charter was received and the Lodge constituted..
The raisings during 1849 were as follows: William H. "Winter and
James B. Anderson, March 10 ; Jacob Grim and J. C. Williams, March
13 ; James W. Anderson, March 21 ; Welden R. Smilie, Oct. 2.
Sept. 18, the following officers were elected : Charles W. Rockhold,
W. M.; Joseph Warders, S. W.; Jonathan Nies, J. W.; Henry Clark.
Treas..; John W. Shinn, Sec.; B. F. Ruble, Tyler.
MOUNT VERNON LODGE NO. 31.
Three brethren were raised by No. 31, during 1849, viz.: Edmund B.
Tunstall, Jan. 15 ; William Clampet, " first Monday in April ; " William
B. Harrison, June 22. The 24th June was duly celebrated, Bro. R. F.
Wingate delivering an oration. Oct. 4, sixteen brethren were fined
twenty-five cents each for non-attendance, and on the 5th November
like fines were assessed against a like number.
Nov. 13, a petition for a new Lodge at Salem was recommended.
June 22, the following officers were elected : William W. Bennett, W.
M.: Downing Baugh, S. W.; John H. McBride, J. W.; Daniel Baltzell,
Treas.; Charles T. Pace, Sec.; Joseph R. Tyler, Tyler. The following
were appointed : John H.Watson and George Mills, Deacons; A. B.
Watgon and John H. Pace, Stewards.
ORIENTAL LODGE NO. 33.
The following named brethren received the Master's degree in No. 33,
during 1849 : Josiah B. Herrick, Jan. 10 ; B. F. Crosby, Jan. 12 ; H. K.
Davis, Jan. 27 ; Charles G. Osteer, March 2; Thomas Sherry, March Ifi ;
John W. Shoemaker, June 8; Julius Dyhrenfurth, Sept. 7. At the meet-
ing of Sept. 7, the Lodge was informed of the death of Bro. Charles G.
Osteer. Oct. 19, the Lodge being informed of the death of William
Mitchell, Grand Secretary, passed appropriate resolutions. The follow-
ing officers were elected Dec. 21 : J. H. Bird, W. M.; L. P. Hillard, S.
W.; Carlton Drake, J. W.; A. G. Burley, Treas.; Peter A. Lantze, Sec.;
W. H. Adams and P. Ballingall, Deacons; J. V. Z. Blaney, C. R. Stark-
weather, and Geo. Davis, Stewards ; J. Daly, Tyler.
The initiation of Peter A. Lantze is duly recorded, but there appears
no record of his passing or raising.
BARRY LODGE NO. 34.
Queers.— David J. Wike, W. M.: John T. Grubb, S. W.; Wesley J.
Alkire, J. W.; David Shields, Treas.; John Watson, Sec.; Jacob Myers,
Jr., and Isaac Lewton, Deacons; Oliver H. Perry, Tyler.
488 HISTORY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS.
Rained. — Isaac A. Holeraan, 0. H. Perry, Richard St. John, Alexander
B. Liggett, Barton Alkire, Richard B. Head, James L. Terry.
Died. — Eli Longnecker.
CHARLESTON LODGE NO. 35.
The raisings by this Lodge for 1849, were as follows: James Kennedy,
Feb. 6; D. H. Apperson, March 7; J. R. Jeffries, May 1; S. H.Goodwin,
May 15: David McKee, Sept. 26; Joseph Buzan and Lewis B. Hutcha-
son, Sept. 28; R. S. Mills and J. D. Gardner, Oct. 30; John M. Logan,
Dec. 27.
On the 19th Feb. a petition for a new Lodge at Paris, was presented,
but not being signed by a sufficient number, it was deferred to the 2 1st'
at which time it was duly recommended. It will be remembered that
the petition which No. 35 presented to Macon Lodge was laid over for
the same cause.
May 11, the Lodge was called together to make arrangements for the
funeral of Bro. John Miller "who came to his death by the hands of
an assassin."
June 25, the following officers were elected: A. H. Chapman, W. M.;
II. F. Linder, S. W.; Wm. Horr, J. W.: J. R. Jeffries, Treas.; J. J. Brown,
Sec.: A. G. Mitchell and J. F. Parcells, Deacons; A. P. Dunbar, Tyler.
KAVANAUGH LODGE NO. 36.
Three brethren received the third degree in this Lodge during 1849,
viz.: Jackson C. Barnard, Feb. 28; Royal P. Daniels, Sept. 12; Benj. P.
Miller, Dec. 19.
July 18, certain resolutions (which do not appear on record) were
adopted in regard to the death of Bro. Hiram Curtis. No other mention
is made of the death of this brother.
Sept. 12, The following officers were elected : A. S. Mitchell, W. M.;
John Cadinan, J. W. : John B. Green, J. W.; J. C. Barnard, Treas.; J.
B. Goble, Sec.; Robert Barker and R. P. Daniels, Deacons; P. G. Ames,
Chaplain ; Patrick Gahan, Tyler.
MONMOUTH LODGE NO. 37.
The raisings by this Lodge for 1849 are as follows: William W. Lee,
Feb. 8; John D. McLean and Marinus G. Smith, March 6; John D.
Thompson, March 25; Jamison Leeper and Charles K. Smith, June 19:
Henry D. Garrett, Aug. 8; Baily Ragan, Dec. 25.
June 26, the following officers were elected: George W. Palmer, W.
M.; Thomas W. Payne, S. W.; Henry McAdams, J. W.; Charles K.
Smith, Treas.; Daniel McNeil, Sec.; Henry McCartney and Benoni Mer-
rifield, Deacons; Daniel Markham, Tyler.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 489
June 27, these officers were installed, and the usual Committees on
Sick and Grievances were appointed. The "grateful acknowledge-
ments" of the members of the Lodge were tendered to W. Bro. R. D.
Hammond, "for his faithful services as Master of the Lodge, and the
kind manner in which he has performed his duties." A deserved com-
pliment, well bestowed.
OLIVE BRANCH LODGE NO. 38.
The officers for 1849 were William E. Russell, W. M.; L. R. Noel, S.
W.; Wm. M. Payne, J. W.; John W. Myers, Treas.; Oliver L.Davis
Sec.; J. "W. Miller and James Sconce, Deacons; John B. Alexander and
Squire L. Payne, Stewards; Thomas S. Morgan, Tyler.
The raisings were Thomas Wynn, Isaac S. Catton, Milton Davis.
HERMAN LODGE NO. 39.
Officers.— C. F. Ruoff, W. M.; John Steinagle, S. W.; John Renz,J. W. :
Caspar Ruoff, Treas.; Robert Voeth, Sec. ; Frederick Schmitt and Henry
Grim, Deacons.
The following brethren were raised : John G. Kappas, Theodore
Brinkwirth, G. P. Heberling, P. Heirs, H. G. Woebken, Wendelin Weber,
Henry Grim, Jacob Miller, Fred. Koezle, Julius Schleich, Andrew Long.
OCCIDENTAL LODGE NO. 40.
Two brethren were raised by No. 40 during 1849, viz: Nelson Knick-
erbocker, April 2; John M. Quimby, Oct.' 15.
Oct. 1, the following brethren were elected to the offices set opposite
their names: William H. L. Wallace, W. M.; D. Walker, S. W.; F.
Mandelbaum, J. W.; M. E. Hollister, Treas.; William Osman, Sec.; Geo.
H. Norris and James LaSerty, Deacons; W. K. Brown, Tyler.
Dec. 24, the Lodge attended the funeral of Bro. J. B. Rich, who died
" at sunrise this morning" (December 23).
FAR WEST LODGE NO. 41.
This Lodge made no returns to the Grand Lodge for 1849.
MT. JOLIET LODGE NO. 42.
The following named brethren received the third degree in No. 42 du-
ring 1849: Horace Moore, Feb. 3; John C. Hobbs, Feb. 8; Norman
L. Hawley, Feb. 9; Horace E. Maynard and Lemuel D. Norton, Feb 23 :
Geo. S. Fake and Lemuel W. Wade, March 8; William H. Eddy and
Abijah Cagwin, May 17; Isaiah A. Gooding, May 31; Isaac T. Mills-
paugh, William McClure, and James T. McDougal, June 14; Isaac Wolf,
July 5.
490 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
Jan. 11, the Secretary (G. S. Crawford), Junior Warden (Win. Smith),
Tyler ( Wm. E. Little), and Junior Deacon (Jarnes S. Waite), all resigned,
and their resignations were accepted by the Lodge. Carding Jackson
was present at the meeting of Feb. 8, and remained with the Lodge four
days.
Feb. 15, the vacancies in the list of officers were filled by the election
of the following: Thomas J. Wade, J. W.; William Smith,' Sec.; Wm.
Adams, J. D.; Robert J. Cunningham, Tyler.
BLOOMINGTON LODGE NO. 43.
The raisings by this Lodge, during 1849, were two in number, as
follows: Goodman Ferre, Feb. 16; William P. Withers, April 10.
June 1, the following officers were elected : William C. Hobbs, W. M.;
A. Withers, S. W.; S. B. Brown, J. W.; James Miller, Treas.; William
P. Withers, Sec.; Elijah Depew, Tyler.
Aug. 3, the death of Bro. Wanton Parker was announced. Oct. 26,
Bro. Hobbs, having been elected Grand Master, resigned, and the Lodge
passed into the hands of the Senior Warden. Dec. 28, another election
was had " for officers to serve for the ensuing six months," resulting as
follows : E. Thomas, W. M.; M. C. Baker, S. W.; Goodman Ferre, J. W.;
James Miller, Treas.; John Foster, Sec.; Eli N. Powell, Tyler. Breth.
•Charles E. Dodge and Lewis Bunn were appointed Deacons.
HARDIN LODGE NO. 44.
Seven brethren received the third degree at the hands of the brethren
of this Lodge during 1849: James M. Phillips, Jan. 8; Horace A.
Spencer and John McLaughlin, March 5 ; Richard P. Bruce, March ft :
James II. Easley, March 7; James J. Crawford, May 4; Moses W.
Davis, June 15.
January 6, Bro. Alexander C. Rainey, late a member of Hard in Lodge
No. 87, Santa Fe, New Mexico, was affiliated/ and on March 2d, John C.
Moses, formerly a member of the same Lodge, was also admitted.
June 15, the Lodge expressed as its opinion that it was expedient for the
Lodge to co-operate with the Grand Lodge on the subject of education,
and inexpedient to co-operate with Macomb Lodge in the matter of
•" Macomb College," for the reason that the college was committed to the
care of a particular religion, and that they deemed it improper to attach
a " Masonic institution to any denomination."
Nov. 23, the following officers were elected : James Brockman, W. M.;
Angus McPhail, S. W.; John M. Adams, J. W.; Lewis Brockman, Treas.;
A. L. Sweet, Sec.; James M. Kendrick and John C. Hedenburg, Deacons ;
John L. McKasson, Tyler.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 491
Dec. 27, these officers were duly installed iu public, an address being
delivered by Bro. Baily, for which, and his services as Master, the Lodge
returned him their thanks.
GRIGGSVILLE LODGE NO. 45.
The officers of this Lodge for 1849, as we learn from their return to the
Grand Lodge, were : Amos Hill, W. M.; Wm. B. Scholl, S. W.; C.
Regan, J. W.; J. D. Battles, Treasurer; T. Plumb, Secretary,- X. and F.
Phillips, Deacons; James Parker, Steward; George Lytle, Tyler.
No work appears to have been done, as none is returned.
TEMPLE LODGE NO. 46.
The following brethren received the third degree in Temple Lodge in
1849 : A. McHenry, Jan. 3 ; John Booth, Feb. 1 ; Thomas Bryant, Feb.
It); II. C. Phelps, Feb. 28; Aaron Meek, March 20; G. D. Hurlburt,
March 26; J. P. Miller, April 11 ; 0. II. Pierson and B. H. Banvard,
April 17; T. C. Dodge, June 27; D. W. C. Farrell, July 14; Nicholas
Boilvin, Aug. 1 ; David Rodecker, Sept. 12; John Findley, Sept. 18;
Charles S. Clarke, Oct. 16; H. C. Meyer, Oct. 24 : Sanford Moore and
Andrew Thompson, Oct. 26; Samuel Smith and John B. Phillips, Dec.
19.
Feb. 21, Bro. J. R. Crandall resigned as Master, when the Lodge went
into an election resulting in the choice of John C. Heyl, who was duly
installed the same evening. At the meeting of 18th April, we find it
recorded that " Bro. Prickett be requested to furnish a copy of the
address delivered by him on the presentation of a jewel to Bro. Cran-
dall." This is the only mention of such presentation.
June 4, the Lodge buried the remains of Bro. Brice Hays, who died of
cholera on the day previous.
Xov. 28, the following officers were elected. John C. Heyl, W. M.; J.
T. Lindsay, S. W.; D. D. Stevenson, J. W.; William Widenham, Tyler:
N. Boilvin, Treas.; N. S. Tucker, Sec.
CALEDONIA LODGE NO. 47.
Raised. — Jonathan Freeman, William Standard, S. B. Shoate, James
M. Hall, Edwin B. Califf, 0. S. Sayre.
Officers. — George Hawpe, W. M.: Joseph Street, S. W.; James M.
Davidge, J. W. Abraham Youngblood, Treas.; James Y , Sec.: Hiram
Boren and Henry D. Riddle, Deacons.
UNITY LODGE NO. 48.
Officers.— "B. B. Payne, W. M.; S. S. Jones, S. W.; E. H. Jaques, J. W.:
Luther Dearborn, Treas.; Alex. H. Baird, Sec.; Thos. Mattison, Tyler.
No work was returned by this Lodge during 1849.
492 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
CAMBRIDGE LODGE NO. 49.
Rained. — M. B. Potter, Samuel P. Brainard, Henry Cooper, Stephen
Palmer, Win. M. Dalzell, Jarvis Pierce, Wm. H. Faxon, Elbert Penny,
Isaiah K. Skeen, Jos. C. Stiller, Levi Leonard, William Wardlaw, Wm.
D. Wardlaw, Lafayette Stewart, David Cosner, and Jacob Cosner.
Officers.— Harman G. Reynolds, W. M,; Robert D. Foster, S. W.; Daniel
C. McNeil, J. W.; Henry R. Lewis, Chap.; Michael Grant, Treas.; Sam'l.
P. Brainard, Sec.; Quincy McNeil, and Mathew B. Potter, Deacons ;
Lewis M. Webber and Henry Cooper, Stewards; L. S. Cady, Tyler.
CARROLLTON LODGE NO. 50.
Oncers.— James B. Samuel, W. M.; L. W. Link, S. W.; C. A. Davis,
J. W.: Hiram Keach, Treas.; John K. Sharon, Sec.; R. W. English and
Samuel Hopkins, Deacons; Josephus Headlee, Tyler.
liaised.— G. A. Davis, W. Sharon, V. F. Williams, S. C. Hopkins, P.
Wright, G. H. Turner, F. P. Vedder, W. B. Taylor, John Hardtner, J. K.
Sharon, R. W. English, J. C. Vigus, H. S. Latham, H. N. Bishop, J.
Headlee, Z. A. Morrow, T. A. Mclntyre, A. Davis.
MT. MORIAH LODGE NO. 51.
Officers— J. H. Rolston, W. M.; McKenzie Turner, S. W.; M. J. Block-
berger, J. W.; J. S. Hillis, Treas.; Wm. II. Wilton, Sec.; R. W. Davis
and D. C. Lingofelter, Deacons: T. H. Corey and William Shawn, Stew-
ards ; A. H. Knapp, Tyler.
Raised.— Robert H. Peall, Amos Tetrick, Alex. Woodruff, W. H. Wil-
ton, Benj. Blockburger, R. W. Davis, D. Lingofelter, Elias Petrie, A. A.
Trimper, H. J. Rawson. Of the officers named above, Rolston, Turner,
Blockburger, and Hillis, were members of Mt. Moriah Lodge when under
the jurisdiction of Missouri.
The following are reported as having died : Aaron Knapp, Adam
Rapp, Ira Boone, and Robert Crow.
BENEVOLENT LODGE NO. 52.
The officers of this Lodge for 1849 were : D. Waldo, W. M.; W. Post,
S. W.; R. B. Hatch, J. W.; W. J. Paugh, Treas.; J. Trabue, Sec.; John
W. Trover and W. B. Hatfield, Deacons ; S. S. Winegar, Tyler.
Raised.— Thaddeus McCoy, W. R. Ham, W. H. Long, S. Parker, J. W.
Thompson, W. Lee, W. J. Paugh, G. W. Ragle.
JACKSON LODGE NO. 53.
Raised. — David Evey, R. Madison, James Prentice, Martillus Graham,
Jacob Cutler, Joseph Evey, Ralph Williams, Charles E. Woodward, Jas.
0. Henry.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 493
Queers.— Edward Evey, "W. M.j M. K. Chin, S. W.; B. Durkee, J. W.;
Letton Smith, Treas.; Charles E. Woodward, Sec.; John T. Tremble and
Martillus Graham, Deacons ; Charles Guilford, Steward ; A. G. Herron,
Tyler.
RECLAMATION LODGE NO. 54.
Queers.— Silas G. Shong, W. M.; Alex. Sympson, S. W.; Alex. La-
Croix, J. W.; J. J. Piggott, Treas.; D. W. Pressell, Sec.; John J. Brent
and Aaron S. Kingsly, Deacons; J. A. Cozad and V. E. Remington,
Stewards; Albert Stow, Tyler.
liaised. — John J. Brent, W. W. Stale, and Aaron S. Kingsly.
WASHINGTON LODGE NO. 55.
Raised. — Joseph M. Hamilton, Gabriel Jones, Arthur Dempsey, Wil-
liam Edwards, Charles S. Starbuck.
Officers.— Lorenzo Johnson, W. M.; Harvey Neville, S. W.; E. C. Cof-
fey, J. W.; Nahum W. Allen, Chaplain; Alex. D. Hay, Treas.; Darius
Oreenup, Sec.; Samuel M. Carter and George T. Hoke, Deacons; Lewis
X. Farmer, Tyler.
PITTSFIELD LODGE NO. 56.
Officers. — Michael J. Noyes, W. M.; Reuben W. Scanland, S. W.; Jas.
F. Hyde, J. W.; James Ward, Treas.; Samuel Barker, Sec.; B. Comstock
and C. L. Higbee, Deacons; William Agnew, Tyler.
Raised.— H. Wills, J. M. Stagg, G. T. Ed wards, Samuel Barker, A. Don
Carlos, R. H. Scanland, B. F. Spencer, L. Vary, J. B. V. Butler, J. J.
Bunce, R. L. Howard, J. D. Brents.
TRIO LODGE NO. 57.
Raised. — William Kelly, Frazier Wilson, John A. Boyd, Z. Cook, Jas.
Copp, P. W. Gallup, Joseph 0. Gilbert, D. A. Morris, S. C. Plummer, W.
D. Bradley, James H. Hadsall, Robert T. Mills, Luke Wells, Charles
Brooks, Elihu Turner, H. E. Wright, D. B. Rice.
Officers.— Patrick A. Whittaker, W. M.; Joshua H. Hatch, S. W.: Jas.
Vaughn, J. W.; Benj. F. Barrett, Treas.: Robert Graham, Sec.; James
<r. Blythe and Daniel A. Morris, Deacons; William Vandever, James R.
Hadsall, Stewards; William Pettifer, Tyler.
The following are reported as having died: P. H. Jeffers, Stephen
B. Green.
FRATERNAL LODGE NO. 58.
Officers.— J. J. Patterson, W. M.; J. C. Johnson, S. W.; Wm. Lafarge,
J. W.; Henry Zarger, Treas.; John Marquiss, Sec.; Joseph A. Kee and R.
Carlyle, Deacons: John P. Tenbrook, Steward: Geo. W. Fisher, Tyler.
494 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
Raised. — Henry Zarger, R. F. Piatt, James A. Piatt, John Marqui
Samuel Hoping, Jacob Tenbrook, George Matsler, Henry Sadorus, Geo.
W. Fisher, Allen Sadorus, Joseph A. Kee, W. M. Nesbitt.
NEW BOSTON LODGE NO. 59.
Raised.— V. C. Shibley, L. B. How, J. G. Swaford, Gilbert Brewer.
Officers.— J. 0. Allen, W. M.; Jos. Alexander, S. W.; John Allen, J. W.;
Gilbert Brewer, Treas.; Daniel Winslow, Sec.; George Ralston and John
'Greer, Deacons; M. Poflenbarger, Tyler.
BELVIDERE LODGE NO. 60.
Raised.— S. Bassett, S. G. Gooding, D. H. Whitney, R. B. Simpkins, S.
T. Hotchkiss, Joseph White, A. Cline, F. M. Putney, John Powell, Sam'L
Loncor, C. H. Payne, J. Vansickles, H. J. Doolittle, Leroy E. Benson, H.
R. Mead, A. Birge.
Officers.— W. Hotchkiss, W. M.: D. Howell, S. W.; S. C. Gooding, J. W..-
S. H. Magher, Treas.; A. C. Fuller, Sec.; N. W. Birge and Asa Williams,
Deacons; Isaac Benson and Cephas Gardner, Stewards ; James Johnson,
Tyler.
Cornelius Cline is reported as having died during the year.
JERUSALEM LODGE NO. 62.
Officers.— Charles F. Wertz, W. M.; Dan. Higley, S. W.; William Little,
J. W.; Richard Chancy, Treas.; John M. Hinkle, Sec.; Hiram Cutts and
Samuel McFarland, Deacons ; Emanuel Morrison, Tyler.
Raised. — J. M. Hinkle, Peter Wertz, Lyman Hall, Samuel Chancy,
Allen D. Mason, Richard Chaney, S. A. Irvin, Robert Fisher, William
Moore, James Harpham, Isaiah Wilcoxon, S. W. Johnston, Edward
Helm, C. W. Williams.
EUCLID LODGE NO. 65.
Raised. — Eli Rich, George Martin, Cyrus F. Tarbox, Henry F. Vallette?
Lyman A. Hoyt, John Collins, John G. Sowers, Peter A. Lantz, Jona-
than G. Vallette, George T. Adsit.
Officers. — Alymer Keith, W. M.; Joseph Naper, S. W.; Nathan Allen.
J. W.; Lewis Ellsworth, Treas.; C. F. Tarbox, Sec.; John Collins and
Nahum Boring, Deacons; Eli Rich, Tyler.
Breth. John G. Sowers and Erastus G. Hough were reported as having
died during the year.
HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 495.
KNOXVILLE LODGE NO. 66.
This Lodge (beyond one initiation) did no work during the year. The
officers were : George C. Lanphere, W. M.; Benjamin Hebard, S. W.;
Caleb Finch, J. W.; Edward C. Johnston, Treas.; R. L. Hannaman, Sec.;
Reuben Bailey and Isaac Gulihur, Deacons; Jonathan F. Mason, Tyler.
Lacon No. 61, St. Marks No. 63, and Benton No. 64, made no returns
for 1849. There were left, after the close of the Grand Lodge, ten Lodges
U. D., which will be noticed under their appropriate numbers in the
chapter devoted to 1850.
March 17, 1849, Grand Master Lavely granted to brethren Nelson D.
Morse, Alexander Ewing, Jamea E. Hale, Robert C. Price, L. D. Mont-
gomery, Francis Gilmore, and William Easley a dispensation for a travel-
ing Lodge, authorizing them " to form and to open a Lodge to be named
the Pacific Lodge, at any place in said Territory (California) where they
may sojourn, or on the journey there where there is no Grand Lodge estab-
lished." The petition for this Lodge was duly recommended by Hiram
Lodge No. 26. M. "W. Bro. Morse was named as Master; Alexander
Ewing, S. W.; and L. Dow Montgomery, as J. W. Of the labors diffi-
culties, and scenes which this Lodge went through, we have no record,
but the dispensation, which now lies before us, in three separate and
distinct pieces, speaks of rough usage. The Lodge was in existence as
late as October, 1851, at which time its last return was made.
The following brethren were initiated during the life of the Lodge:
W. T. Sexton, Moses Bean, 0. S. Walcott, H. C. Riordan, Jacob Hessing,
John W. Handy, John B. Smith, Wm. F. Shelton, J. P. Dillon, Eben
Phelps, John B. Carter, M. M. Smith, Jos. R. Male, Thos. J. Hale, A. H.
Stout, H. B. Hays, J. W. Spalding, W. W. Lusk, J. H. Marple, William
Maxwell, N. B. Edson, E. S. Collier, Samuel Price, C. F. Lott, W. N.
Fisher, A. P. Smith, G. W. Stockton. All these were passed and raised
excepting the two last. The last return of this Lodge was dated at
" Long's Bar, Upper California."
CHAPTER XXIV.
1850.
GKAND LODGE.
SPECIAL COMMUNICATION, APRIL 8, 1850.
On the 10th day of February, 1850, a fire occurred in the city of
Peoria, which destroyed the office of the Grand Secretary, and all the
books, papers, and records of the Grand Lodge, including the manu-
script proceedings of the Grand Lodge at its session for 1849, the print-
ing of which, for some unaccountable reason, had been delayed up to
that time. A portion of this delay was doubtless owing to the death of
William Mitchell, Grand Secretary, which occurred shortly after the
close of the Grand Lodge.
Deeming it his duty to do so, yet with a great deal of hesitation,
Grand Master Hobbs, who had been elected in October, 1849, called the
Grand Lodge together to meet at Springfield on the 8th day of April,
1850, and in obedience to his edict the Grand Lodge assembled at the
specified time. There were present :
"William C. Hobbs, M. W. G. M.; William B. Warren, S. G. W., p. t.; J. B-
Samuel, J. G. W., p. t.: Elias Hibbard, G. Treas., p. t; William Lavely, Dep. Gr.
Sec., p. t.; Levi Lusk, G. Chaplain, p. t.; Patrick A. Whittaker, S. G. D., p. t.:
Phares A. Dorwin, J. G. D., p. t.; J. V. Z. Blaney, G. Pursuivant, p. t; Michael
McNamara. G. Tyler, p. t.
"Past Grand Masters Lusk and Lavely. Past Masters Warren, of No. :>,
Cabanis and Harvey, of No. 4, Sweat, of No. 15.
" REPRESENTATIVES :
"No. 1, Louis Watson, W. M. No. 3, Wm. S. Hurst, S. W. No. 4, J. W. Keye?,
W. M.; Mason Brayman, S. W. No. 15, Thos. J. Pickett, W. M. No. 17, J. M.
Campbell,* W. M. No. 18, J. C. Miller, W. M. No. 19, D. A. Brown,* W. M. No.
24, C. G. Y. Taylor,* W. M. No. 25, Elias Hibbard, W. M. No. 26, S. G. Dean,*
W. M. No. 27, B. C. Snyder, W. M. No. 33, J. V. Z. Blaney,* W. M. and S. W.
No. 34, George Wike, W. M. No. 43, Goodman Ferre, J. W. No. 44, Jamee
Brockman, W. M. No. 45, W. B. School, S. W.; F. Kimball, J. W. No. 50, J. B.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 497
Samuel, W. M. No. 51, R. W. Davis,* W. M. No. 53, E. Evy, W. M. No. 57, P. A.
Whittaker, W. M. No. 59, E. H. Freeman,* W. M. No. 66, A. Brewer, W. M.
No. 68, E. Frazier,* S. W. No. 69, William Farris,* S. W. No. 71, P. A. Dorwin,
W. M.; I. R. Diller, J. W. No. 79, Z. Case, W. M.; C. N. Halstead, J. W.
" No. 4, A. R. Robinson, John Davis, and Balsar Hiki. No. 71, John Cook, Thos'
H. Campbell, and C. W. Chatterton."
The Grand Lodge having been opened in ample form, the Grand
Master delivered the following address :
"Sight Worshipful and Worshipful Brethren of the Grand Lodge of Illinois:
"I issued the proclamation which has caused you to convene at this time,
with extreme reluctance. Nothing short of what appeared to me imperative
and urgent necessity would have induced me to subject you to the outlay and
inconvenience incident in attending an extra session of the Grand Lodge.
"Since our regular communication in October last, it has pleased Divine
Providence, in His, to us, inscrutable wisdom, to visit us, as a Fraternity, with
solemn, impressive, and affecting dispensations. Death, that great severer of
the fondest and holiest of human ties, has breathed his icy breath on our right
and on our left, and several of our most cherished and efficient brethren, with
whom we acted in October, are now affiliated with the pale nations of the spirit
land. They have, doubtless, been called hence to be advanced to higher degrees
in that Lodge over which the Supreme Grand Master of the Universe eternally
presides.
" It becomes my official duty to announce to you the death of Wm. Mitchell,
Esq., our late Rt. Worshipful Grand Secretary. In ten days after the adjourn-
ment of the last regular communication, he was called from lab&r in this world
to the enjoyment, we trust, of a rich and enduring refreshment in a realm of
brighter arid of fuller light than ours.
" He needs no eulogy from me. An imperishable monument is built up to his
memory within the heart of every member of this organization— upon the
tablet of which are indelibly inscribed his worth and his virtues. His deep and
unwavering devotion to the precepts, principles, and usages of the Order— his
amiable and unchanging courtesy — his untiring industry and zeal in the dis-
charge of his official duties — his fidelity and his expansive brotherly love, con-
stituted him one of the great pillars of our Institution in Illinois, and the idol
of the Fraternity.
"Upon the death of the late Grand Secretary, I appointed our esteemed
Bro. Thomas J. Pickett, Esq., of the city of Peoria, to fill the vacancy.
"In conformity with a resolution of the Grand Lodge, the printing of the
proceedings of the last annual communication, together with a digest of all the
laws, rules, and edicts of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, then in force, was con-
tracted with Messrs. Davis & Pickett, of Peoria.
"To facilitate the work, and for personal convenience, the Grand Secretary
placed the archives of the Grand Lodge in the building occupied by these
brothers as a printing office. Before the said printing was completed, the office
was destroyed by fire, and with it the entire papers belonging to the Grand
Lodge, including the manuscript copy of the minutes of the last annual com-
*Proxies.
—36
493 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
munication. This unfortunate catastrophe makes it necessary, and seems to
demand, that some organized action of this Grand Lodge should be had pre-
vious to the October session, to collect and re-establish, as far as practicable,
the proceedings, enactments, and records thus destroyed. To neglect this
would necessarily produce confusion, and to delay action until October, would
impose upon that session duties too laborious and too much augmented.
"The objects contemplated for your action at this session, as set forth in the
summons or proclamation, are as follows :
" 1st. The restoration of the records, bonds, and proceedings of the Grand
Lodge, particularly the proceedings of the last October communication.
"2d. The adjustment, as far as necessary, of the financial concerns of the
Grand Lodge, up to the close of said regular session.
"3d. The filling of any vacancy which may have occurred in the elective
officers of the Grand Lodge since the last communication.
"4th. To take such action as you may determine in relation to the organiza-
tion of a General Grand Lodge for the United States of North America.
"5th. To bestow any charities which may be thought advisable— to make any
allowances in money, in payment to officers for services, as may seem just and
proper, and also to make any allowances of money for incidental expenses, if
any such should occur or be presented.
"Cth. To receive returns and dues from Lodges having failed to make returns
at the last October session, and to take regular action on said returns.
"7th. To hear and determine all matters of grievance which may be regu-
larly and properly presented.
"In the said summons each subordinate Lodge was required to return to this
special communication a certified copy of the returns made to the last regular
communication, together with the receipts for dues and other moneys paid at
the last regular communication. It was further required that each and every
Lodge under this jurisdiction which failed to make the usual and regular
returns and payments at the said last regular communication, do make such
returns and payments to the present special session.
"It was requested in said proclamation that all reports, resolutions, regula-
tions, edicts, or requirements, adopted at the said last October session, be made
out as nearly as practicable and presented or forwarded by the person or persons
having offered the same.
"To your experience and wisdom, my brethren, I confide the business which
calls us together. You will find it, most likely, intricate and laborious, confused
and indistinct. The zeal, devotion, and industry, however, usually displayed by
the members of this Grand Lodge, will satisfactorily elucidate every intricacy
and readily surmount every difficulty.
"I will take the liberty to suggest the propriety of appointing the following
committees, in order to insure regularity of action and facilitate the progress of
the meeting.
"1st. A committee on the restoration of records and proceedings, whose
duty shall be to collect, as far as practicable, copies of lost records, and further,
to collect and condense in proper form all reports, resolutions, motions, and
facts appertaining to the proceedings of the last regular communication.
" 2d. A finance committee, whose duty it shall be to adjust as far as necessary
the financial concerns of the Grand Lodge up to the close of the last session.
"3d. A General Grand Lodge Committee.
" 4th. A Committee on Charitv.
HISTOKY OP MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 499
"5th. A Committee on Returns of Chartered Lodges having failed to report
at the regular time.
"6th. A Committee on Grievances; or such other committee or committees
as the wisdom of this body may devise.
"Since I arrived in this city the resignation of Bro. Pickett, as R. W. Grand
Secretary, was received by me, consequently that office is now vacant, and an
immediate election to fill the vacancy is recommended.
" A very fraternal communication was received by me from the M. W. Grand
Lodge of Virginia, inviting the officers and members of the Grand Lodge of Illi-
nois to participate with them in the pleasing duty of Masonically laying the
corner-stone of a monument to be erected in the city of Richmond, to the mem-
ory of our illustrious brother George Washington.
"The invitation was received too late to permit me either notifying you or
attending myself.
"I will not interfere with your time in addressing you at this communication
upon matters not pertinent to the intentions of this meeting. At the regular
communication I will take the liberty of presenting many propositions which,
in my opinion, will be of importance to the Fraternity.
"In conclusion, I will congratulate you on the unprecedented growth of the
Fraternity within this jurisdiction. New Lodges are springing up vigorously
and securely in almost every village and town of any size throughout the length
and breadth of the State. General harmony prevails, and from the reports I
have had the pleasure to receive, I am induced to believe that the subordinates
are in a most healthy and prosperous condition. More than ordinary caution is
avowedly exercised by the Lodges in the reception of members — consequently
our altars are, measureably, sacred from the offerings of the unworthy, and our
sanctuaries unpolluted by the presence of the mercenary and the profligate."
The address was referred to Breth. Warren (3), Snyder (27), and
Brayman (4).
On motion of Bro. Warren, appropriate resolutions were adopted re-
garding the death of Bro. H. S. Cooley, Past Grand Orator.
Bro. Warren, from the Committee to whom was referred the address of
the Grand Master, reported as follows :
"Bro. Warren, from the special committee to which was referred the address
of the Most Worshipful Grand Master, begs leave to recommend:
"The appointment by the Most Worshipful Grand Master, of the following
committees, as suggested by him :
"1st. A Committee on Restoration of Records, Proceedings, &e.
"2d. A Finance Committee.
"3d. A G. Grand Lodge Committee.
"4th. A Committee on Charity.
"5th. A Committee on Chartered Lodges which have failed to report at the
regular time.
"6th. A Committee on Grievances.
''7th. A Committee to Report Resolutions on the death of R. W. \Vm. Mitchell,
late Grand Secretary.
"And that the several subjects specified in said address, and all business com-
ing before the Grand Lodge, be referred respectively to the appropriate commit-
tees,
500 • HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"We also recommend that the address of the M. W. G. Master be printed with
the proceedings of this grand communication.
" Respectfully submitted,
" W. B. WARREN,
BENJ. C. SNYDER,
M. BRAYMAN."
Which, on motion of Bro. Blaney, was adopted.
In accordance with this report the M. W. Grand Master appointed the
following committees:
On Restoration of Records.— Breth. Piekett (15), Cabanis (4), Snyder
(27), Sweat (15), Hurst (3), Farris (69), Taylor (24), Brayman (4), and
Campbell (17).
On, Finance.— Breth. Warren (3), Dean (26), Miller (18).
On Charity. — Breth. Samuel (50), Keys (4), and Brockrnan (44).
On General Grand Lodge. — Breth. Warren (3), Lusk (9), and Hibbard
(27).
On Chartered Lodges which failed to report at the regular time. — Breth.
Cabanis (4), Whittaker (57), and Frazier (68).
On Grievances. — Breth. Freeman (59) and Case (79).
To Report Resolutions on the death nf R. W. Wm. Mitchell, late Grand
Secretary. — Breth. Braymen (4), Piekett and Sweat (both 15).
On motion of Bro. Cabanis, an election for Grand Secretary was made
the order for Tuesday morning. The Grand Lodge then called off until
2 o'clock, P. M.
2 O'CLOCK, P. M.
The Grand Lodge being called to labor, on motion of Bro. Cabanis, the
Committee on Restoration was discharged.
On motion of Bro. Sweat,
"Resolved, That the standing committees as appointed . at the last annual ses-
sion of the Grand Lodge, be now called, and the members answering to their
names constitute the committees at the present session.''
The call was then made and resulted as follows :
On Returns and Work of Chartered Lodges. — Breth. Cabanis, Whitta-
ker, and Frazier.
On Returns and Work of Lodges U. D. — None.
On Petitions and Grievances. — None.
On Examining Visiting Brethren. — None.
On motion of Bro. Warren, a committee, consisting of Breth. Warren,
Blaney, and Brayman, were appointed to invite the Governor, Auditor,
Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, and other State officers being Ma-
sous, to be present at the session of the Grand Lodge.
Bro. Brayman announced that he was authorized by Springfield Chap-
ter No. 1, Springfield Lodge No. 4, and Central Lodge No. 71, to tender
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 501
the officers and members of the Grand Lodge a dinner, at such time dur-
ing the session as might be convenient.
On motion of Bro. Hurst, the Grand Lodge accepted the hospitalities
offered, and appointed Breth. Hurst, Sweat, and Hibbard, as a committee
of conference with the bodies above named.
On motion of Bro. Blaney (33),
" Resolved, That the Grand Secretary cause to be published forthwith, 250 copies
of the following resolution, adopted by this Grand Lodge at their last annual
communication, viz.:
'" Resolved, That the Grand Lodge of Illinois recognizes the Lodge over which
M. W. J. D. Willard presides, as the only regularly constituted Grand Lodge in
the State of New York,'—
"Together with a list of the Lodges working under said Grand Lodge, to be
distributed immediately to the subordinate Lodges of this State, and sent to
every new Lodge that may be created."
Bro. Taylor (24) offered the following :
" Whereas, Bro. Alexander Reany, late Master of St. Clair Lodge No. 24, de-
parted this life during the year 1849, and has left a very worthy and destitute
family who are at this time in indigent circumstances ; therefore,
"Resolved, That dollars be appropriated from the Grand Charity Fund
to the widow of our late Brother A. Keany, for the benefit of herself and orphan
children."
Which was referred to the Charity Committee.
Bro. Hurst (3) offered the following :
" Resolved, That in the opinion of this Grand Lodge, it is unmasonic and con-
traryto the ancient usages of the Craft for a brother to demit from a Lodge, un-
less he removes from under its jurisdiction, or for the purpose of joining a
weaker Lodge."
The Grand Master decided the resolution out of order (upon what
grounds we are not aware), whereupon Bro. Hurst appealed from his de-
cision, upon which the ayes and noes were called for, and the decision of
the Grand Master sustained.
The Grand Lodge was then called off until Tuesday morning.
TUESDAY MORNING, April 9, 1850.
The Grand Lodge was called to labor, the Throne of Grace being ad-
dressed by Bro. Coffman.
The following additional officers and representatives were present:
"J H. Holton. R. W. D. G. M.; J. H. Luce, R. W. G. Lecturer; E. R. Roe, R. VV.
P. D. G. M.; Phillip Coffman, Past Master.
" Representatives.— No. 1, H. Dills,* S. and J. W. No. ;), N. English, J. W. No. 14,
A. R. Stout, S. W. No. 19, A. J. Brooks, .J. W. No. 30, C. W. Roekhold, W. M. ; D.
M. Smith, * S. and J. W. No. 38, J. M. Roberts, * W. M., S. and J. W. No. 47, A!
Freeman, * W. M., S. and J. W. No. 54, S. G. Strong, S. W., * W. M. No. 58, J. J.
Patterson, W. M. No. 68, Nathan Presser, W, M. No. 71, Asa Eastman, S. W."
*Proxies.
503 HTSTOKY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS.
An appeal by E. J. Nicholson from the action of Warren Lodge No.
14, was referred to the proper committee.
The Committee on Charity reported as follows, which was adopted :
"The Committee on Charity, to whom was referred the resolution of Bro.
Taylor of St. Clair Lodge, asking the Grand Lodge to make an appropriation for
the benefit of the widow and orphans of our late Bro. Reany, deceased, beg leave
to report that they have had the same under consideration, and would respect-
fully recommend that the Grand Lodge cause to be furnished to the said family,
the sum of one hundred dollars.
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
"JAS. B.SAMUEL,
J. W. KEYS,
JAS. BROCKMAN.
On motion of Bro. Laveiy,
" Resolved, That as compensation to Bro. Thos. J. Pickett, late Grand Secretary,
and in consideration of the great loss sustained by fire, that the sum of one
hundred dollar* furnished Davis & Pickett, be appropriated to Bro. Pk'kett.
" Resolved, further, That Bro Pickett be requested to present his account for
postage and other incidental expenses incurred by him as Grand Secretary."
The Grand Lodge then went into an election of Grand Secretary,
which resulted in the choice ef Bro. William B. Warren, who was duly
installed.
The committees which had not been filled on the day previous, -were
now appointed, viz.:
On Returns and Work of Chartered Lodges. — Breth. Cabanis (4), Whit-
taker (57), and Frazier (68).
On Returns and Work of Lodges U. D.— Breth. Dills (1), Watson (1),
Brewer (30).
On Petitions and Grievances. — Breth. English (3), Laveiy (4), and Sny-
der (27).
On Visiting Brethren. — Breth. Hurst (3), and Luce (1).
A committee on restoration of lost records, to act as supervisory of the
other committees, was also appointed, consisting of Breth. Taylor (24),
Cabanis (4), and Pickett (15).
The Grand Master announced that Bro. Past Grand Master Jonas had
sent him, to be presented to the Grand Lodge, a bound copy of the pro-
ceedings of the Grand Lodge from its organization to 1848, which was
ordered returned to him with the thanks of the Grand Lodge, as a copy
had been preserved from the fire.
Breth. Hibbard (27), and Sweat (15), were appointed a Committee on
Unfinished Business.
The committee appointed to confer with the Masonic bodies of the
city, in relation, to hospitalities tendered, reported as follows;
HISTORY OF MASONEY IN ILLINOIS. 503
"The committee appointed to confer with our brethren of Springfield, in rela-
tion to a dinner to be tendered the Grand Lodge, respectfully beg leave to
report :
"That they have conferred with the Committee of Arrangement appointed by
the Chapter and Lodges of Springfield, and understand that a procession will be
formed at the Masonic Hall, at 12 o'clock on Wednesday, the 10th day of April,
and proceed to the room now occupied by the Grand Lodge, and there receive
that body— then proceed to the 1st Presbyterian Church, where an address will
be delivered by Bro. James H. Matheny, of Springfield Lodge No. 4, after which
the procession will move to the City Hotel, and there partake of a dinner at half
past -i o'clock.
" Your committee have accepted the arrangement as above, and respectfully
ask the attention of the Grand Lodge to the same.
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
"WM. S. HURST,
Chairman."
The Grand Lodge was then called off until Wednesday morning.
WEDNESDAY MORNING, April 10, 1850.
The Grand Lodge was called to labor, prayer being offered by Past
Grand Master Lusk. Additional representatives were present, as fol-
lows :
" No. 52, Daniel Waldo, W. M. No. 56, J. F. Hyde, S. W. No. 59, Thos. H. Free-
man, proxy W. M., S. and J. W. No. 76, B. T. Burke, W. M.
A petition of Bro. Dunlap, of Rushville Lodge No. 9, was presented
by Bro. Lusk, and referred to the Committee on Grievances. The accounts
of Bro. T. J. Pickett, late Grand Secretary, were referred to the Finance
Committee. The appeal of E. J. Nicholson was, upon leave, withdrawn.
A complaint made against Temple Lodge No. 46, was referred to the
Committee on Grievances.
The Committee on Petitions and Grievances made report as follows:
"The Committee on Petitions and Grievances, to whom was referred a matter
from Rushville Lodge No. 9, have had the same tinder consideration and would
beg leave to report, that they are unable to seej»ny reason therein to authorize
the Grand Lodge to take the business out of the hands to which it properly be-
longs, and would recommend the adoption of the following resolution :
"Resolved, That the appeal be dismissed.
"N. ENGLISH,
BENJ. C. SNYDER,
WM. LAVELY."
The Grand Lodge was then called from labor until 3-J o'clock P. M.
"A procession was then formed by the Grand Marshal, and the Grand
Lodge, accompanied by the Grand Chapter of the State of Illinois, Spring-
field Lodge No. 4, Central Lodge No. 71, and Springfield Royal Arch
Chapter No. 1, marched to the Presbyterian Church, where an address
504 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
was pronounced by Bro. James Matheny ; the grand officers of the
Grand Chapter were then installed — the procession was again formed
and moved to the City Hotel, where a sumptuous dinner was prepared.
"After dinner the procession moved back to the hall, and the Grand
Lodge was called to labor."
Bro. Pickett, from the Committee to report resolutions on the death of
Grand Secretary Mitchell, made report as follows:
"The committee to whom was referred the subject of reporting resolutions
on the death of Bro. Mitchell, late Grand Secretary of this Grand Lodge, would,
in accordance with that duty, submit the following:
" It having pleased the great disposer of events to call from our midst our
well beloved and lamented Bro. William Mitchell, late Grand Secretary of this
Grand Lodge, it is proper at this time that we pay a tribute to him ' whose
memory we revere and whose loss we deplore.'
"Resolved, That 'we deeply, sincerely, and most affectionately sympathize with
the widow and orphans of our late brother, in their afflictive bereavement.'
"Resolved, That the members of this Grand Lodge, during the present commu-
nication, as a token of respect for the memory of our late departed brother, will
wear crape on their left arms.
"Resolved, That a copy of the foregoing resolutions be forwarded to the widow
of our deceased brother.
On motion of Bro. Dills,
"Resolved, That the thanks of this Grand Lodge be tendered to the Chapter
and Lodges of Springfield, for the kind reception and excellent entertainment
provided by them for the members of the Grand Lodge."
Bro. Lavely was allowed $15 for services as Deputy Grand Secretary.
The representative of No. 54 was granted leave of absence.
The committee to whom was referred the complaint against No. 46,
made report as follows :
"Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to repair immediately to
Peoria and investigate all difficulties existing in Temple Lodge, and report to
the M. VV.G. Master, who can then act on the subject as his judgment may direct;
in the mean time that said Lodge cease work, and that a copy of this proceeding
be transmitted to the W. Mastei and Wardens of said Lodge."
The Grand Master desiring to be excused from the appointment of the
committee, Breth. Wade (42), Quigley (29), and Rockhold (30), were ap-
pointed by the Grand Lodge.
An account of Bro. Pickett for $15.75 was allowed and ordered paid.
The Grand Lodge was then called off until 7J o'clock P. M.
WEDNESDAY, 7i O'CLOCK P. M.
The Grand Lodge called to labor.
The following was adopted :
"Resolved, That the thanks of the Grand Lodge be tendered Bro. J. H. Ma-
theny, for the able address delivered by him this day, and a copy of the same
be requested, to be printed with the proceedings of the present Grand Lodge."
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 505
The Committee on General Grand Lodge reported as follows:
" The Committee on the G. Grand Lodge beg leave to make the following report
and recommend its adoption :
" It is the opinion of your committee that the organization of a general Grand
Lodge is the surest and best means for the attainment of that unity, uniformity,
and brotherly feeling which has heretofore, and should always characterize the
Masonic family; therefore, be it
"Resolved, That this Grand Lodge approve the principle and will cordially co-
operate with her sister Grand Lodges, in the formation of a general Grand
Lodge— also
"Resolved, That the M. W. G. Master be appointed a delegate to attend the
convention for the organization of said G. G. Lodge, or appoint a proxy to do so.
"W. B. WARREN,
ELIAS HIBBARD,
L. LUSK."
Bro. Blaney (33) moved to amend by inserting the following :
"Resolved, That the Grand Lodge approve of, and are willing to take part in a
convention composed of delegates from the Grand Lodges of the several States
of the United States, to take into consideration the expediency of the forma-
tion of a General Grand Lodge for the United States, and to frame a constitu-
tion and by-laws for such Grand Lodge; provided that this Grand Lodge shall
not be committed to any thing which shall bring it under jurisdiction of such
general grand body, until action can be had upon the proceedings of such con-
vention, and only then by a rote of the Grand Lodge, submitting itself to such
jurisdiction.
Bro. Taylor (24) moved to amend as follows :
"To strike out all after resolved, and insert "that this Grand Lodge is op-
posed to the formation of a Supreme Grand Lo-lge. but that she will send a
delegate to the Grand Convention with instructions that he oppose the institu-
tion of such a body."
Bro. Cabanis (4) moved to amend by substituting as follows :
"Resolved, That the Grand Lodge take no further action at this time in rela-
tion to the formation of a Supreme General Grand Lodge of the United States."
The substitute was adopted by the following vote : Ayes, Grand Mas-
ter, Deputy Grand Master, Grand Wardens, Nos. 1, 3, 8, 16, 24, 25, 26,30,
42, 45, 50, 52, 53, 54, 57, 68, 69, 79—21 votes. Nays, Past Grand Masters,
Nos. 4, 9, 15, 17, 18, 27, 33, 34, 44, 47, 56, 59, 66, 71—15 votes.
y The vote in the affirmative recorded as No. 16 should have read 19, as
No. 16 was not then in existence.
The thanks of the Grand Lodge were voted Bro. Treat, Chief Justice
Supreme Court, for the use of the court-room. Bro. Blaney, on the part
of Bro. Case, presented the Grand Lodge with a copy of the proceedings
of the Grand Lodge of New York.
The Committee on Restoration of Lost Records reported as follows :
"The committtee appointed to restore the records and proceedings of the
October session of 1819, of the Grand Lodge of Ancient, Free, and Accepted
Masons of the State of Illinois, beg leave to report that they have assiduously
—37
506 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
attended to that duty and report the following as the result of their labors", re-
marking at the same time, that wherever the committee could, with any degree
of certainty, arrive at what was the positive result of action had by the Grand
Lodge upon any matter at the last annual communication, they have presented
it here in accordance with the action had ; and where the committee were in-
formed that matters had been considered, and action had by the Grand Lodge,
but the result of that action not known, they have stated as follows : ' lost and
can not be restored,' all of which is respectfully submitted:
" C. G. Y. TAYLOR,
T. J. PICKETT,
Z. CABANIS."
"At a Grand Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, convened
in the city of Chicago, in pursuance of its by-laws, on the first Monday, being the
first day of October, A. D. 1849, A. L. 5849.
"Present.— M. W. William Lavely, G. M.; R. W.Joseph C. Ketchum, G.S. W.; R.
W. William C. Hobbs, G. J. W.; R. W. William McMurtry, G. Treas.; R. W. Wm.
Mitchell, G. Sec.; R. W. William Barlow, G. Chap., pro tern.; R. W. Geo. Davis, G.
Orator; R. W. P. A. Whittaker, G. S. Deacon, pro tern.; R. W. A. F. Reany, G. J.
Deacon, pro tern.; R. W. H. G. Reynolds, G. Marshal ; R. W. C. B. Stebbins, G. 8.
Bearer; R. W. Wm. C. Russell, G. Pursuivant; R.W.John Daley, G. Steward ;
R. W. W. Christy, G. Tyler.
" Members. — No. 30, Adam Brewer. No. 33, J. V. Z. Blaney. No. 1, John Crockett,
W. M.; H. Dills, S. W.; 8. Hulton, J. W. No. 3, Wm. C. Swett, W. M.; W. S. Hurst,
S. W.; N. English, J. W. No. 4, Z. P. Cabanis, W. M. No. 9, John C. Bagby, W. M.
No. 13, Geo. W. Gilson, W. M. No. 14. John T. Knox, proxy for W. M., S. and J.
Wardens. No. 15, Thos. J. Pickett. No. 17, Hugh Erwin, J. W. No. 18, C. Jack-
son, W. M. No. 19, A. F. Reany, proxy for 8. and J. W. No. 25, Elias Hibbard,
proxy for W. M., S. and J. W. No. 29, Webb C. Quigly, W. M. No. 33, Geo. Davis,
W. M. No. 34, Lewis Angle, proxy for W. M. No. 37, Wm. Easly, proxy for W.
M. No. 38, Wm. E. Russell'. No. 39, J. Holton, proxy for W. M. and S. W. No.
40, W. H. L. Wallace. No. 42, T. J. Wade. No. 43, W. C. Hobbs, W. M. No. 45, Amos
Hill, W. M. No. 46, John C. Heyl, W. M.; J. P. Dennis, S. W.; John T. Lindsay,
J. W. No. 49, H. G. Reynolds, W. M. No. 52, Daniel Wade, W. M. No. 54, Alex.
Simpson, proxy for W. M. and J. W. No. 56, M. J. Noyes, W. M. No. 57, P. A.
Whittaker, W. M.; B. F. Barrett, proxy for S. W. No. 60, N. H. Hotchkiss. No.
61, Robert E. Yost, proxy for W. M., S. and J. W.
"There being a sufficient number of Lodges represented, the M. W. G. Lodge
was opened in ample form in the third degree of Masonry, and the Throne of
Grace addressed by Rev. William Barlow, Grand Chaplain.
"On motion of Bro. J. H. Holton, the reading of the minutes of the last Grand
Annual Communication was dispensed with, printed copies being in the hands
of the members."
Bro. Lavely then delivered his address. He congratulated the breth-
ren upon having escaped the prevailing mania which had carried ofr so
.many to seek their fortune in a distant land; alluding to the "California
fever," and that more awful pestilence (the cholera) which, "walking
forth in darkness and wasting at noonday," had carried so many to their
long home. He then notices the fact that P. G. M. Morse and P. D. G.
HISTOKY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS. .-,07
M. Crandall had, wit'1 "the mighty multitude," wended their way to a
far distant land, and expressed the hope that they might again return
and meet with them. He thus spoke of Bro. Samuel H. Davis:
" But our worthy and esteemed brother, Samuel H. Davis, the able chairman
of the Committee on Foreign Correspondence, has gone to that distant land from
whose bourne no traveler returns. He will never meet with us again in the
Grand Lodge below. May we not indulge the fond hope, in our present bereave
ment, that the first named brethren, with all that have gone with them, may
through the parental care and protection of our Heavenly Father, be safely re-
turned to the bosoms of their families, and to our assemblies ; and that the latter
has only gone from his labors in the Grand Lodge below, to everlasting refresh-
ment and happiness in the Grand Lodge above, where the Supreme Architect of
the Universe presides, and bids him welcome. He having died the death of the
righteous, let us endeavor to emulate his many virtues, that when we shall be
' called off,' our last end may be like his."
He then reported granting dispensations for Union Lodge, at Little
Fort, Lake county ; Eureka Lodge, at Camden Mills, Rock Island county ;
Rocktou,at Rockton, Winnebago county; Scott, at Carlyle, Clinton county;
Central, at Springfield; Prairie, at Paris, Edgar county; Pacific and
Lavely, in the Territory of California; Acacia, at LaSalle; Chester, at
Chester, Randolph county; Knoxville, at Knoxville; Batavia, at Bata-
via, Kane county; Mount Nebo, at Carlinville, Macoupin county; Perry,
at Perry, Pike county; Naples, at Naples; and Roscoe, at Roscoe, Winne-
bago county. In regard to the dispensations to the two Lodges in Cali-
fornia, he thus said :
" In granting the dispensations to the two Lodges in California, as the pe-
titioners could not designate any particular place in the Territory where they
might remain while there, I gave them authority to open their Lodge and hold
their meetings at any place where they might sojourn, where no Grand Lodge
was established. And in view of the great distance they would be from us, and
the impossibility of their being enabled to make returns of their work, &o., to
our present communication, as required in ordinary cases, the dispensations
were so granted as to continue in full force until the return of the respective
Masters named therein, unless sooner revoked by the Grand Lodge. This act
may be considered as an assumption of power on my part, as in ordinary cases
it is understood that the Grand Master can not, in the recess of the Grand Lodge,
grant a dispensation for a new Lodge to extend beyond the next annual com-
munication. But all the circumstances in connection with these two Lodges and
their destination, seemed to justify some deviation from the general rule, and as
the dispensations were entrusted to such brethren and members of our Grand
Lodge as P. G. M. Morse, and P. D. G. M. Crandall, I could not hesitate, in draft-
ing their dispensations, to give such powers as the emergency of their cases
actually required, being well assured that the trust would not be abused in their
hands, wherever their lots might be cast. It is with you, however, to ratify or
annul my proceedings in the matter, and take such further action as may ieem
right and proper, as to the continuation of those two Lodges."
508 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
He reported the Lodges in a flourishing condition, called atten-
tion to the act of the General Assembly incorporating the Grand Lodge,
"and all Lodges now constituted or that may be hereafter constituted,"
and thus in regard to physical requisites of candidates :
" I would call your attention to the necessity of adopting some permanent and
explicit rule with regard to the physical requisites of candidates, as we have
none to govern us except the ancient constitutions, upon which most of the
<5rand Lodges have placed their own constructions on this subject for the govern-
ment of their subordinates. As appears by the printed proceedings for 1845
•(page 57), it was resolved, as the opinion of this Grand Lodge, 'that when the de-
formity of a candidate for initiation is not such as to prevent him from acquir-
ing an honest livelihood, being instructed in the arts and mysteries of Masonry,
=and working in his Craft, his admission will not be an infringement upon the
"landmarks," but will be perfectly consistent with the spirit and present
"' speculative" character of the Institution.' Subsequently, however, at the se^
sion for 1847, as appears by the printed proceedings (page 34), this resolution,
together with several others, were declared to be adopted, if adopted at all, con-
trary to the requirements of the constitution and by-laws of the Grand Lodge.
Within the last year, one of our subordinate Lodges received an individual who
had lost a leg, and after receiving the favorable report of the committee thereon,
and having some doubts of the propriety of proceeding further, ask for infor-
mation from me ; upon which I emphatically forbid their attempting to confer
the degrees upon him. In another Lodge, they initiated and passed one who
had lost a hand, and on his application to be raised, some of the members ob-
jected, while others were in favor of proceeding with him. The question wa«
submitted to me for a decision, uprfn which I informed them that their whole
proceedings, from the reception of the petition to the time when his further
progress was stopped, was a violation of the 'Ancient Constitution,' and a direct
innovation upon the 'Body of Masonry,'1 and ordered them to go no further with
the individual ; and as he had not legally received the degrees, could not there-
fore be recognized as any part of a Mason. For this gross violation of ancient
arid established regulations, I censured the officers of the Lodge severely, and
should immediately have arrested their charter, but for their prompt acknowl-
edgement of the error, and an assurance of their zeal for Masonry, and a mani-
fest disposition to conform to all our regulations.
" It may seem a hardship that one who has been so unfortunate as to lose a
leg or a hand, but who is otherwise in mind and morals 'fully qualified,1 should
be excluded from receiving a part in the rights and benefits of our time-honored
Institution ; but there is no greater hardship in his case than that of a woman
or one in his non-age. A man with but one leg, or one hand, might be altogether
'worthy,' but he can not be 'well qualified.' Although it is contended by
some, and is so decided by some Grand Lodges, that the change in the charac-
ter of our Institution from 'operative and speculative' to 'speculative' only,
has vindicated the propriety of a departure from the 'Ancient Constitution' in
certain cases, and particularly as to the physical requisites of candidates; yet
still we regard the ceremonies of initiation as one of the principal parts of the
'Body of Masonry,1 in which all must admit, more especially Masters of Lodges,
that ' it is not in the power of any man, or body of men, to make innovations.'
These are the same in all ages, and can not in any case be altered or dispensed
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. :>w
with in making Masons. Let the world change, let other institutions of modern
date grow up and live their brief hour and die, but let us studiously guard
against all innovations and strenuously adhere to the 'Ancient Charges.'"
Several communications relating to difficulties in No. 59, which had
been received by him, were laid before the Grand Lodge. That portion
of his address which related to Temperance Lodge, we have heretofore
presented. He spoke as follows of the division of the Grand Lodge of
New York :
" I have been favored with detailed accounts from both parties, of the out-
rageous proceedings had at the late annual communication of the M. W. Grand
Lodge of New York, which will be at your disposal. As there are now three
distinct bodies in that State, claiming to be Grand Lodges, I would urge it upon
you to take some prompt and decisive action in the premises, mid determine at
this communication, which of these bodies shall be recognized as the legal and
Regularly constituted Grand Lodge of that State. And also denounce in lan-
guage that can not be misunderstood, the tumultuous, rebellious and riotous
spirit manifested by some of the actors in the scene alluded to, and which is so
much at war with the holy principles and teaching of our Institution. And in
order that a speedy and fair investigation may be had in the premises, I would
recommend that all the communications be referred to a special committee, with
instructions to report at as early a day as possible. I only refrained from issuing
a circular to all of our subordinates, interdicting all Masonic intercourse with
New York Masons, until the difficulty should be examined and passed upon by
you, because the present communication was so near at hand.
He concluded by returning thanks for the honors twice conferred upon
him, and proposed, after his successor'had been elected, to seek a "quiet
corner, and there rest and muse on what others do, and pray for the
peace of Jerusalem."
But little rest (Masonically speaking) from the cares of office, Las our
venerable brother experienced.
So much of the address as related to the New York difficulties, was
referred to Breth. Pickett, Ilubbs, " and three others," and the remainder
to Breth. II. G. Reynolds, J. II. Holton, " and others."
The Grand Master then appointed the following standing committees :
On. Upturns and Work of Chartered Lodges. — Breth. Cabauis, Wbittaker,
and Knox.
On Returns and Work of Lodges U. D. —Breth. Dills, Waldo, and Steb-
bins.
On. Petitions and Grievances. — Breth. McMurtry, Noyes, and English.
To Examine Visiting Brethren. — Breth. Jackson and Hurst.
The Grand Lodge was then called off until 2 o'clock P. M.
At 2 o'clock P. M. the Grand Lodge was called to labor. No business
was transacted beyond the appointment of a Committee on Foreign Cor-
respondence, consisting of Breth. Pickett (15), Reynolds (20), and Lind-
say (46).
510 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
On Tuesday morning the Grand Lodge was called to labor. Same
officers'and brethren were present as on the preceding day.
The Committee on Chartered Lodges reported as follows:
"The Committee on Returns and Work of Chartered Lodges offer the follow-
ing report: That they have received the returns of Washington Lodge No. 55>
Nashville. The work appears to be correct, but there is no receipt for the dues
paid, $24.00. An explanation is given as follows: That the dues had been for-
warded to the late Grand Secretary, William Mitchell, at Peoria, Illinois, on the
24th day of September, 1849, with the request that the Grand Secretary would
forward a receipt for the same, but that no answer had ever been forwarded to
this Lodge.
"The Committee on Returns and Work of Chartered Lodges respectfully beg
leave to report that they have examined the returns of the following Lodges,
made up to the 1st October, 1849, and find them correct and their dues paid, to-
wit: Bodley No. 1, Equality 2, Harmony 3, Springfield 4, Rushville 9, Cass 23.
Piasa 27, Warren 14, Peoria 15, Macomb 17, Lafayette 18, Clinton 19, St. Clair 24,
Franklin 25, Hiram 26, Oriental 33, Barry 34, Herman 39, Olive Branch 38, Charles-
ton 35, Bloomington 43, Caledonia 47, Cambridge 49, Carrollton 50, Jackson 53,
Trio 57, Fraternal 58, Reclamation 54, Pittsfield 56, Jerusalem G2, St. John's 13,
Mt. Joliet42, Monmouth 37, Benevolent 52.
"They have also examined the returns of Unity Lodge No. 48, and find them
correct. The dues of the Lodge were remitted by the Grand Lodge at its last
annual communication.
"The returns of Griggsville Lodge No. 45 and Hardin No. 44, have been exam-
ined and found correct, and their dues are paid.
"The returns from Morning Star Lodge No. 30 are found to be correct. Ac-
companying these returns they find appended the following certificate accom-
panying the report:
" MORNIXO STAR LODGE No. 30, A., F. & A. MASONS, ">
'• CANTOS, 111., April 3, 1850. j"
"This will certify that we have inclosed with the returns of this Lodge, on or
about the 18th of September, 1849, thirty-eight dollars, and delivered the same to
Mr. John Wham, for him to convey the said returns and money to Peoria, and
directed the said package to William Mitchell, Grand Secretary of the Grand
Lodge of A., F. and A. Masons, Peoria, " JOHN W. SHINN,
Secretary of Morning Star Lodge Aio. SO.
"CHARLES W. ROCKQOLD, W. M.
" The affidavit of Mr. John Wham also accompanied the above, which affidavit
states that he delivered said letter to Wm. Mitchell, G. Secretary, on or about
the 25th of September, 1849.
"The affairs of New Boston Lodge No. 59, at the last annual communication of
the Grand Lodge, were referred to a special committee composed of the Masters
of the three nearest Lodges, who were to report to the Grand Master as soon
thereafter as practicable. The dues of the Lodge are paid. The committee
would refer to the G. Master for any further information concerning this Lodge.
"The committee have also examined the returns of Macon Lodge, No. 8, Pe-
kin No. 29, Belvidere No. 60, from which it appears they have received petitions
and installed petitioners in less time than required by the regulations of this
Grand Lodge. Their dues have been paid.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 511
"The committee have also examined the returns of Kavanagh Lodge No. 36,
for the years 1818-9, which they find correct. This Lodge made no returns for
1818-9. The committee can not say whether their dues have been paid or not.
"Your committee at the last session of the Grand Lodge recommended that
inasmuch as petitions had been received by the subordinate Lodges in several
instances, and the degrees conferred upon the applicants in less time than is
required by this Grand Lodge ; that hereafter no subordinate Lodge shall in any
ease of emergency whatever be permitted to receive petitions and initiate the pe-
titioner until one lunar month shall have elapsed, unless by special dispensation
obtained from the Grand Master for such purpose.
"The Committee on Returns of Lodges Under Charter have examined the
return of Temple Lodge and find great irregularity in relation to balloting for
candidates.
" We ask leave to read a portion of the minutes of Temple Lodge on the sub-
ject.
" Your committee offer for adoption the following resolution :
" Resolved, By this Grand Lodge, that Temple Lodge No. 46 is hereby forbidden
the initiation of Michael Donlin.
"Z. P. CABANIS,
P. A. WHITAKER,
EDWD PRASER."
The Committee on Lodges U. D. reported as follows :
"The Committee on Returns of Lodges U. D. at the last Grand Annual Com-
munication of this Grand Lodge, have examined the copies of such returns as
have been submitted to them and respectfully report that these returns com-
prise those of Euclid Lodge, at IS'aperville; Knoxville Lodge, at Knoxville; Aca-
cia Lodge, at LaSalle; Naples Lodge, at Naples; Eureka Lodge, at Camden
Mills; Central Lodge, at Springfield ; Chester Lodge, at Chester; Rescoe Lodge
atRoscoe; Mount Nebo Lodge, at Carlinville; Union Lodge, at Little Fort ; Scott
Lodge, at Carlyle; Prairie Lodge, at Paris; to which charters were issued under
their respective Nos. of 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 71, 72, 75, 76, 78, and 79.
" The work of Euclid Lodge in general has been correct, but in a few instances
the degrees have been conferred to hastily.
"The work of Knoxville Lodge, Union Lodge, Chester Lodge, and Central
Lodge has been correct.
" Naples and Roscoe Lodge had worked only under special dispensation.
"The following amount was paid by the following Lodges:
" No. 79 paid for dues $9, for charter, $7 ; No. 78 paid for dues $11, for chartert
$7; No. 67 paid for dues $4.50, for charter, $7; No. 72 paid for dues $7.50, for char-
ter, $7; No. 71 paid for dues $8.50, for charter, $7; No. 69 paid for dues $8, for
charter, $7; No. 65 paid for dues $10.50. for charter, $7; No. 68 paid for dues $4,
for charter, $7; No. 75 paid for dues 35.50, for charter, $7; No. 76 paid for dues
$11, for charter, $7 ; No. 66 paid for dues $11, for charter, $7 ; Prairie, number not
returned, $27 for dispensation charter and fees.
" There were several other charters granted, from whom no returns have been
sent up at this session. Two dispensations ware continued, the names of which
your committee do not recollect, all of which is respectfully submitted.
"H. DILLS.
ADAM BREWER,
LOUIS WATSON."
512 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
Shawneetown was selected as the place of meeting of the Grand Lodge
in 1S50.
The following grand officers were then elected :
"M. W. William C. Hobbs, Grand Master; R. W. John H. Holton, D. G. M.; R.
W. Joseph H. Ketchum, S. G. W.; R. W. Wm. E. Russell, J. G. W.; R. W. Wm.
McMurtry, G. Treas.; R. W. Wm. Mitchell, G. Sec.; R. W. Rev. Braxton Parish,
G. Chaplain ; R. W. A. G. Caldwell, G. Orator; R. W. A. R. Stout. G. Tyler."
The following appointments were made :
"P. A. Whittaker, S. G. D ; Webb C. Quig'ey, J. G.'D.; Clark B. Stebins, G. Pur.;
Nathaniel English, G. Marshal ; W. H. L. Wallace, G. Sw. B.; J. H. Luce, G. Lec-
turer; John E. Rearden and John T. Knox, G. Stewards."
The Grand Lodge was then called off until 2 o'clock P. M.
Two O'CLOCK P. M.
The Grand Lodge assembled and formed a procession, and proceeded
to "City Hall," where the officers elect were installed, and an oration
delivered by Bro. George Davis. The Grand Lodge returned to the
lodge-room, and was called to labor.
Bro. Lavely then delivered the following valedictory address on re-
signing the Chair to Grand Master Hobbs :
"Mr BRETHREN— In relinquishing the chair to my successor, I can not forego
the present opportunity of again offering my grateful acknowledgments for the
many marks of your kindness and confidence.
"I have most deeply felt my own inadequacy to make suitable requital for your
favors. The cup of my ambition has been filled to overflowing, and I greet with
unfeigned satisfaction the brother of your choice, as one altogether worthy and
fully qualified for the high station he now holds, and which I have felt myself
more honored by than qualified for.
"You, MOST WORSHIPFUL, will please accept my cordial congratulations on your
elevation to the highest honor of Masonry. You are now in this State the HEAI>
of the most ancient, benevolent, and distinguished society in the world ; and I
am rejoiced to see such authority deposited in such worthy hands, and feel well
assured that no exertion will be spared on your part to realize the anticipations
of your usefulness.
"Your duties I know to be the most arduous, but important and honorable
stations always imply great labor, and require much industry and exertion.
Y'our eye must now be vigilant in discerning any inroad in our ancient land-
marks, and your arm must always be ready to protect the Institution against
intestine convulsions and external hostilities. It is with pride that I now re-
member that you first received Masonic light within the jurisdiction of the
Grand Lodge over which you now preside. But in surrendering to you the Chair,
I can not, surrender the honor I claim, and of which I am proud of having been
the first (Masonically) native born Grand Master of this Grand Lodge. I, too, re-
ceived my first instructions in the mystic art, through a subordinate of this
Grand Lodge. May we both be ever mindful of our Masonic parentage, and ever
reflect back upon its character, that lustre which we have derived from it."
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 513
The thanks of the Grand Lodge were tendered to Bro. Davis for his
oration, and a copy requested for publication. After which the Grand
Lodge was called olf until Wednesday morning.
WEDNESDAY MORNING, 9 o'clock.
The Grand Lodge was called to labor — present the same officers and
members as on yesterday.
On motion of Bro. Lavely, and ou the recommendation of Macon
Lodge No. 8,
Bro. Alexander Edmunds was restored to all the rights and benefits
of Masonry.
Temperance Lodge No. 16 surrendered her charter, records, and jewels
to the Grand Lodge, and, on motion, said charter, jewels, and records
were ordered to be deposited with Springfield Lodge No. 4, subject to
the call of the brethren of Vandalia, when they shall again organize a
Lodge at that place.
On motion of Bro. Geo. Davis, a dispensation was granted Vitruvius
Lodge.
The Committee on the New York difficulties presented the following
report, which was accepted and the resolutions adopted:
•'The Committee to which was referred so much of the Grand Master's address
as related to the difficulties in the Grand Lodge of N. York, would submit, the
following report:
"There now exist in New York, three bodies claiming to be Grand Lodges,
and as it is inconsistent with the spirit of Masonry, that more than one Grand
Lodge of Ancient York Masons should exercise jurisdiction within the limits of
any State, it vitally concerns theFraternity at large to inquire into the causes of
the present anomalous state of things in the Empire State; and here the com-
mittee would remark that it is eminently proper to make the inquiry searching
and thorough; for New York has hitherto maintained a controlling position
towards her sister Grand Lodges. Did a trivial innovation find its way into the
constitution of a Grand Lodge, New York was the first to condemn the wrong-
doers; did any unfortunate conflict of opinion arise between the members of »
Grand Lodge, which could but be settled among her own members, New York
was the first to give prominence to the difficulty, and by making a ' mountain
out of a mole hill,' produced discord and strife, where but for her officious inter-
meddling, 'brotherly love would have prevailed.'
" When the fell spirit of demagogue anti-masonry swept like a tornado, over the
northern and eastern portions of our Union, our brethren of Vermont, as faith-
ful followers of the true lights of Masonry as the world ever saw, were compelled
to yield, for a time, to the storm of malice, ignorance, and hatred. But with
the 'lapse of time' this spirit gave place to a better feeling, and light was again
seen in the East. The clouds of error and superstition that so long hovered
over the Green Mountain State were rolled away, and the Masonic 'star that
never sets,' was again visible in the eastern horizon. Thanks to an over ruling
Providence and the moral courage of her noble- hearted craftsmen, that star
now shines with an undimmed lustre, giving a pure and radiant light to the
514 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
votaries of Masonry, 'wheresoever dispersed' in our country. May she long
continue asthe 'bright particular star' in the Masonic constellation ! Itstrikes
your committee that the hand of friendship should have been extended to Ver-
mont when she was emerging from her grievous troubles, that she was particu-
larly entitled to that charity which is taught as one of the first lessons in Ma-
sonry. But what was the course of New York ? The very first State that should
have said to her younger sister ' I caused your troubles — I now sympathize with
you — as Ruth said to Naomi, whither thou goest I go, your people shall be my
people, your God my God !' But instead of this we find the language of abuse
and denunciation. The last State to acknowledge the existence of a 'regularly
constituted Grand Lodge' within the borders of Vermont. She says in that
spirit to which we have already alluded, ' I am holier than thou!'
"Your committee think that when any Grand Lodge claims more 'wisdom'
or 'strength' or 'beauty,' than her equals — when she attempts to put on airs of
superiority that she does not possess, it behooves the Grand Lodges of other
States to see whether the pretender is entitled to wear the 'blushing honors'
that are so unblushingly claimed. We therefore proceed with the^task. The
following facts, from authentic sources, are submitted :
"A charter was granted to form a Grand Lodge in New York, from the Grand
Lodge of England, on the 5th of September, 1781, the Duke of Athol being at the
time Grand Master of the Lodge granting the charter. At the close of the Revo-
lutionary war, all Provincial Grand Lodges were annulled, and an independent
Lodge was formed by the brethren of New York. Under the new arrangement
all went well until 1823, when difficulties arose which were not settled until 1827,
at which time the troubled waves were calmed and the four following articles
were agreed to :
'"1st. That there ought to be but one Grand Lodge in the State of New York,
and that it, ought to be held in the city of New York, and be considered as the
continuation of the old Grand Lodge: that all allusions to former difficulties
be avoided as far as possible.
"'2d. That the proceedings of the two bodies (known by the name of the
Grand Lodge) shall be confirmed; and that warrants granted to subordinate
Lodges by the two bodies, and the proceedings of said bodies, shall be deemed
regular. That the records and archives of the Grand Lodge being in the city
of New York, the Grand Secretary and the Grand Treasurer shall be chosen
from the city of New York ; and the Grand Master, or Deputy Grand Master,
shall be chosen from the city of New York — the other from the country ; the
two Wardens from some other part of the State than the city of New York.
'"3d. That the permanent fund be managed by five trustees, viz.: the Grand
Master, the Deputy Grand Master, the two Grand "Wardens, and the Grand Sec-
retary, whose duty it shall be to invest all funds aver one thousand dollars,
annually, after paying representatives, salaries, and rent.
'"4th. That the number of Lodges which one Master, or Past Master may
represent, shall not exceed 3; that Past Masters shall not be represented by
proxy, and that representatives be paid as heretofore.'
"By a vote in 1814, the following preamble was attached to the foregoing:
"'At the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of the State of New
York, on the 7th of June, 1847, 228 Lodges being represented, the following com-
pact was agreed to unanimously, and is a fundamental law of the Grand Lodge,
which can never be disturbed.'
" Under the charter of the Provincial Grand Lodge, and the constitutions up
to 1S48, Past Masters were acknowledged as members of the Grand Lodge of
New York. The Grand Lodge constitution provides for quarterly meetings, but
the June meeting is the annual communication at which the grand officers are
to be elected, and changes in the constitution made, provided the same shall
have had ' the affirmative vote of the Grand Lodge at two successive June
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 515
meetings, unless in addition to the affirmative vote of the Grand Lodge at one
June communication, it shall have received the affirmative vote of a majority
within the jurisdiction.'
" In conformity to this regulation an amendment was proposed at the June
meeting in 1848, taking from Past Masters, excepting the last who had passed
the chair, the right to vote.
"This amendment was agreed to by the Grand Lodge and sent to the subor-
dinates, and they concurred in the amendment by a large majority.
•' In March, 1819, the quarterly communication was held in New York, at which
it 13 not constitutional to propose or adopt any regulations to govern the Fra-
ternity, and where but a few of the country Lodges are represented.
"The following preamble and resolutions were adopted :
"'That it is not in the power of one portion of the members of the Grand
Lodge to disfranchise another portion of its members.
" 'That the proposition offered at the last Annual Communication, to deprive
Past Masters of their right to vote in the Grand Lodge, is unconstitutional ami
revolutionary, and that any action tending to its consummation, would be void
and of no force or effect.
" ' That it was their unalterable determination to maintain the Union of 1827,
whatever might be the action of the Lodges on the proposed amendment, by
preserving the rights of Past Masters, as they exist under the said compact o'f
Union.'
"The D. G. M. refused to put the question on the adoption of these resolutions,
•on the ground that it was 'unconstitutional for the Grand Lodge at its quarterly
sessions to act on any measure which interested the whole body.' An appeal
was taken and the decision reversed.
"The annual meeting of the Grand Lodge was commenced in New York,
June 5th, 1849. The following statement of the disgraceful proceedings that
occurred on the first day of the session, we copy from a report made to the
<jrahd Lodge of Massachusetts :
"On the 6th of June the leading rioters were expelled from all the rights and
privileges of Masonry. The facts in relation to these tumultuous and disgrace-
ful scenes are now before us, and it becomes necessary for the Masonic family
of Illinois to make up their verdict. It becomes us, who have an equal right
with other Grand Lodges, to place the seal of condemnation on the wrong doer,
and support with dignity the character we now, as Masons sustain. We wish
no evasions or equivocations, but desire that the position of the Grand Lodg«i
of the Prairie State shall be fully defined— that he that runs may read.
" We therefore offer for adoption, the following resolutions:
"'1st. That there ought to he but one Grand Lodge in the State of New
York, and that it ought to be held in the city of New York, and be considered
as the continuation of the old Grand Lodge: that all allusion to former difficul-
ties be avoided as far as possible.'
"2d. Resolved, That the Grand Lodge of Illinois recognizes the Lodge over
which M. \V. John D. Willard presides, as the only regularly constituted Grand
Lodge in the State of New York.
" 3d. Resolved, That M. W. John D. Willard deserves the thanks of this Lodge
for his firm, dignified and courteous conduct during the disgraceful and law-
less scenes that were enacted in the Grand Lodge of New York on the 5th of
June last."
On motion, it was resolved that the Grand Lodge now appropriate $75
for a Grand Lecturer, to lecture the Lodges in this State south of Hills-
boro.
516 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
Bro. English offered the following resolution which, under the by-laws,
lays over until the next annual communication :
"Resolved, That the by-laws be &o amended as to read: That this Grand Lodge
shall be permanently located in State of Illinois."
On motion,
"Resolved, That the Grand Secretary of this Grand Lodge be instructed to cor-
respond with M. W. G. Master Willard, of the Grand Lodge of the State of New
York, and obtain from him a list of the names and members of all Lodges ad-
hering to and working under his jurisdiction, and that he furnish each subor-
dinate Lodge in this State with a copy thereof as soon as practicable.
A memorial was received from Macomb Lodge No. 17, as follows,
which, on motion, was referred to the Committee on Education :
"At a called communication of Macomb Lodge No. 17, on the 2-1 th day of Sep-
tember, 1849, the following resolution was adopted by said Lodge :
"Resolved, That if the Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois at the next annual
communication shall determine to establish an institution of learning in this
State, and the institution is a college, then and in that case, Macomb Lodge will
donate to said Grand Lodge, the college building and grounds known as 'Mc-
Donough College,' on the conditions and terms proposed in the annexed printed
circular. "J. M. CAMPBELL. Secretary pi o tern.
•• M WIMB, April 1, 1850."
'• WHEREAS, The Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois did, at their last annual
communication, resolve forthwith to proceed to adopt suitable measures to ob-
tain from the Craft and the public, such pecuniary aid as maybe requisite for
the establishment and endowment of an institution of learning in the State of
Illinois, for the education of destitute orphans— male and female — of deceased
brother Master Masons, and such others as the Grand Lodge may direct ; which
institution is to remain forever under the control and management of said Grand
Lodge, and conducted upon the principles, customs, and constitutions of Aucieut
Freemasonry; and
" \\HEREAS, In furtherance of said object, said Grand Lodge did appoint a com-
mittee to receive donations in money and property, and digest and arrange a
plan for the accomplishment of the object aforesaid ; and
"WHEREAS, This Lodge being desirous to aid and assist in carrying on so de-
sirable an object, have purchased the building and ground owned and heretofore
occupied as 'McDonough College,' being four acres of land on a high eminence
adjoining the town of Macomb, on which is erected a good, substantial two-story
brick house, sixty feet in length and forty in breadth — arranged in suitable
rooms for college purposes, and originally designed to form-a part of a commo-
dious college edifice — Macomb being an inland town, is comparatively free
from the vices and immoralities of large commercial places and river towns,
which, connected with its healthy locatipn, renders it, in our humble opinion,
f ne of the most desirable situations in Illinois for such an institution; therefore
be it
•• /.YsVtrd, That we will donate to the Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois the
said land and building, on the condition that said Grand Lodge wili permanently
locate said institution of learning at Macomb, Illinois, to winch the sons of tiie
citizens of thp county and town may be sent as pay pupils.
" Jitsolecd. That should the Grand Lodge accept the aforesaid property upon
the foregoing conditions, we will, without delay, proceed to repair said building
in a good, substantial manner, without cost or charge to the Grand Lodge; be H
further
"Resolved, That we earnestly request the nM, assistance, and co-operationoi
all our sister Lodges in the State, in obtaining the location of said institution of
learning at Macomb, in pursuance to the foregoing propositions; and request
that each of said Lodges fully investigate the claims of this place to such loca-
tion, and to take the necessary action thereon before the next annual commu-
nication of the Grand Lodge; and we also request each of said Lodges to sug-
gest to us any plan they may deem most expedient for the accomplishment of so
great and laudable an undertaking as the establishment and endowment of such.
an institution.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 517
" Resolved, That the Secretary forward a copy of the foregoing preamble and
resolutions to each Lodge in this State.
" I James M. Campbell, Secretary of Macomh Lodge No. 17, do hereby certify
that the above and foregoing is a true copy of a preamble and resolutions which
wero adapted by said Lodge at a meeting of the same, held on the first day of
April. 1818, as appears from the records of said Lodge.
" J. M. CAMPBELL, Secretary.
" MACOMB, McDonough county, April 1, 1848."
A memorial was received from Franklin Lodge No. 25, as follows,
which, on motion, was referred to the Committee on Education :
To the Most Worshipful Grand Master, Wardens, and Brethrtn of the Grand Lodge
of Illinois:
"The attention of this Most Worshipful Grand Lodge has been, for several years
past, directed to the devising of some judicious plan for the promotion of the
cause of education within our bounds, having for its principal object the literary
and moral improvement of the children of our indigent brethren Master Ma-
sons.
"As a free expression of opinion on this subject is understood to have b»en
solicited from the subordinate Lodges, and as we believe in the good old proverb
that, 'In the multitude of counsel there is safety,' we would respectfully make
the following suggestions for your consideration:
"At the present time, we think it would be unwise to devote our energies and
our funds to the building up of a college within the jurisdiction and under con-
trol of this Grand Lodge, for the following reasons, to-wit:
" 1st. A very large amount of funds will be necessary to build up and endow a.
respectable college; and then a large annual expenditure will be absolutely re-
quired to gather up from all parts of the State, and sustain at the institution the
indigent children of Master Masons.
"2d. The Grand Lodge of Missouri has already established a college at a very
Convenient distance, and we believe that that institution will meet all the calls
for a Masonic collegiate education in Illinois, Iowa, Michigan, Wisconsin, and
other Western States.
'• 3d. Our means are, and for years to come will be, altogether inadequate to
the undertaking, without assessing heavier taxes upon the Craft than they are
« ble or willing to pay.
" Many other reasons could be given, but we deem the foregoing sufficient for
the present occasion.
" It may be said that the M. W. Grand Lodge does not contemplate or wish to
build up a college at present; that the attention of the brethren for the last two
or three years has been more particularly directed to district schools of a high
order, in preference to a college.
" But the same objections can be made to bear with almost equal force against
such institutions as against a college; they are almost equally beyond the reach
of that class which we profess to wish to educate. There is this difference in
their favor, instead of one favored spot in the State, we should have two or three.
"We believe that a common school education is the tiling desired; and that
common schools, and they only, can accomplish the object at which we aim.
" To us, therefore, it seems a more judicious and wise plan, for each subordi-
nate Lodg^e to establish common schools in their own neighborhood, and to be
controlled entirely by said Lodge.
In doing so, they will, no doubt, in every instance, receive aid from citizens
friendly to education, who are not members of the Fraternity.
518 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
Franklin Lodge No. 25 has made the experiment, and thus far has succeeded
most admirably. We have an excellent school-room in the first story of our
Masonic Hall, finished off, and furnished in a superior style, and is capable of ac-
commodating nearly one hundred students; and in it we have had, for the last
year, a most flourishing female school, where has been taught all the requisite
branches of a female English education.
" Many of our good citizens have contributed towards building the house, and
they encourage and patronize our school, and instead of wishing to participate
in the management of said school (which has been tendered them) they have in
public and formal manner declined, expressing the hope that the Lodge will never
relinquish their immediate and absolute control of said school.
"We contemplate, ere long, establishing a male school of the same order, and
upon the same principles.
" Brethren, we are willing that it shall be known (for it is true) that Franklin
Lodge No. 25 is comparatively poor; but we believe and we endeavor to 'prove
our faith by our works,' that persevering energy in a good cause, with judicious
economy and God's blessing, will accomplish much with small means.
"The position taken by Franklin Lodge, and her efforts and success in the
cause of common school education, has had a very extensive and most happy
influence thoroughout this community in favor of our 'time honored Institu-
tion.'
"Strong and violent passions have been allayed, and the warmest sympathies
enlisted in our favor, far beyond anything which has ever before occurred to our
knowledge.
"Although that class of the rising generation who have special claims upon
our charity, according to the benevolent principles of our Order, is believed to
be not very numerous in our State, yet it is sufficiently so to demand our early
attention. And we believe, also, that their claim upon us for education extend*
no further than what can be acquired at good common schools.
" If any have further claims upon us, discharge them by teaching these youth*
some of the mechanic arts, thereby making them operative Masons, like our
forefathers, which will fit them to become useful citizens and enable them to
climb the steep of life with honor to themselves and credit to our 'hallowed In-
stitution.'
"There may be found, now and then, an exception to this general rule; if
there be, should we discover some brilliant intellect, some aspiring youth, some
poor boy of our fraternal kin, who is panting after glory in the higher regions of
the intellectual being, let the benevolence of our more wealthy brethren echo to
the call. Or let the Craft be called upon for help in this extraordinary case, and
they will contribute liberally to send him over to the Masonic College in Mis-
souri, or some other kindred institution.
"A large portion of the members of the Masonic Fraternity in this our young,
but thriving State, are men in moderate circumstances — farmers, mechanics,
and tradesmen of small capital, all ' good men and true,' but who literally '.earn
their bread by the sweat of their brow.' And shall our brethren be required to
contribute of their hard earned means, to give their neighbor's children a better
education than they are able to give their own?
"The idea seems preposterous, and even to border on the ridiculous. How,
brethren, can we view it in any other light? Shall we raise a large fund by arbi-
trary taxation, to build up a college or high school to educate the children of
indigent Master Masons, when the children of those very persons who contrib-
HISTORY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS. 51 »
ute this fund, in seven eases out of ten, can not reach beyond a very ordinary
common school education?
" Are we not as Master Masons all equal? If we are, shall we not strive to give
to all a good common school education, rather than an extended or classical one
to a favored few?
" The inclination of the tide of mind in this model country of the world, is to-
wards the intellectual cultivation of the 'sovereign people,' and public senti-
ment is flowing strongly and with a rapid impulse against colleges and high
select schools, and in favor of a wide spread and liberal system of common
schools.
"Colleges are more congenial to the spirit and principles of monarchical and
aristocratical governments, where the power and the intelligence must of neces-
sity be confined to the wealthy and titled few.
" But in this free and mighty republic, where the wealth and the power and
the wisdom are, and of right ought to be, in the personal and peaceable posses-
sion of the moving multitude, their intellectual powers should be as equally
cultivated as the nature of the human mind, and our control over its destinies,
will permit.
" The plan of a school which has been recommended by some of our brethren,
to-wit: to have attached to, and to be in part supported by, an agricultural de-
partment, has been advocated by many good and intelligent men for a long time.
"Many schools, combining most of the principles here proposed, have been
established in various parts of our country, and have apparently prospered for a
season; but it is believed that in every instance they eventually failed, and the
plan relinquished as inapposite to the genius of our people.
" We do not wish to be understood as being altogether opposed to colleges and
high schools, for we approve of them to the full extent of the wants of the coun-
try; but we do believe that there are now established and in progress, more such
institutions than are needed, or can be sustained, and more than sufficient to
classically educate all those who desire or have the means to acquire such an
education.
"Our experience goes far to prove that every subordinate Lodge in the State
of Illinois can, if they will try, establish and sustain a good common school
within their own jurisdiction, and should the plan here suggested be favorably
received, and the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge recommend and encourage a
general system of common school education by the subordinate Lodges, and
should it be executed to the extent of our ability, the community at large, and
those indigent children in particular, will hail this decision and effort of our
Fraternity as a glorious epoch in the history of the progress of education in this
State, and this M. W. Grand Lodge will, in all future time, be pointed to as hav-
ing set an example worthy of all imitation; and it will be followed, to a greater
or less extent, by every Grand Lodge in the United States.
"We have been charged with being supremely selfish in this matter; that we
are aiming to grasp a large portion of the Grand Lodge funds; but this is unkind
in those who make the charge. True it is, should any division of the funds take
place, we would most cheerfully and thankfully receive any portion thereof
which the wisdom of the Grand Lodge should award to us.
"And we feel some assurance that the personal sacrifices we have made and
the good work we have accomplished the past year, will be received asa sufficient
guarantee that any funds committed to our charge by the M. W. Grand Lodge
for the purpose of education, will be faithfully and judiciously invested; but
520 HISTORY OF MASONEY IN ILLINOIS.
we hereby declare that we would much more readily relinquish all our interest
in the Grand Lodge funds, than to yield up this our favorite system of education.
."According to our light on Masonry, it is not consonant with the ancient con-
stitutions for the Grand Lodge to burden the Craft with onerous taxes for extra-
ordinary purposes, but only sufficient to meet their ordinary annual expenses,
or at most, a small charity fund for the temporary relief of special cases of ex-
cess.
"In view of all these things, M. W. G. Master and brethren, we would offer the
following resolutions for your consideration, and if approved, for adoption at
your present communication.
"1st. Resolved, That this Grand Lodge recommend to every subordinate Lodge
in the Stat« of Illinois, to establish within her own jurisdiction and under her
own direction and control good common schools, primarily for the education of
the children of indigent Master Masons. Said schools to be founded upon and
governed by our brond and 'time-honored' Masonic principles. No party — no
sect — peace and goodwill to ali men — special favors to our indigent brethren,
their widows and orphans.
"2d. RsitO'xl, At the next annual communication of this Grand Lodge, all
the funds then on hand, after the yearly expenses are paid, shall be divided
between such subordinate Lodges as shall have permanently established such
school or schools as are recommended in the first resolution, in proportion to
their numerical strength; Master Masons only being numbered.
"3d. Resolved, Hereafter, no tax shall be levied upon those subordinate
Lodges who shall have permanently established and sustain such schools as are
recommended in the first resolution, for any purpose whatever, exc* pt for their
portion of the yearly expenses of the Grand L->dge; and for this purpose each
of such subordinate Lociges shall pay, yearly, to the Grand Lodge, at their
annual communication, the sum of cents for every Master Mason belonging
to said Lodge, in lieu of what they are now required to pay.
"All of which is most respectfully submitted by Franklin Lodge No. 25, in ses-
sion Sept., A. L. 5819.
(Copy) Signed "D. M. KITTINGER, W. M.
"Attest: ELIAKIM THORP, Secretary."
" WHEREAS, The memorial and resolutions of Franklin Lodge No. 25, of Up-
per Alton, on the subject of education, have been laid before Piasa Lodge, for
our consideration, and this Lodge being deeply impressed with the importance
of the subject and necessity of immediate action thereon, therefore be it
"Rexolecd, That we fully concur in the sentiments expressed by said memo-
rial and resolutions of Franklin Lodge No 25, dated Sept. 1849; and this Lodge
respectfully ask of them the privilege of joining with them in their petition to
the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge.
"Res'ilved, That, although the committee of the Grand Lodge on education,
have failed or neglected to present said subject to this Lodge for their action,
yet this Lodge would, nevertheless, respectfully express their opinion in favor
"of local common schools, in the vicinity of, and under the immediate supervi-
sion of each Lodge, in preference to a college or high schools.
"Adopted Sept. 24, 1849.
"A true copy of the Record.
'•Attest: "JNO. N. BAILHACHt:,
Secretary of Piasa Lodge."
On motion,
" Resnirel, That it is the opinion of the Grand Lodge that either the Senior or
Junior Warden of a Lodge may preside and confer the degrees in the absence
of the Master, without regard to his having taken the degree of Past Master.
Bro. Hobbs, from the Committee on Education, made the following
report, which was adopted :
"The Committee on Education, approved at the last communication of this
Grand Lodge, ask leave most respectfully to report that, in their opinion, it is
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 521
inexpedient and impolitic in an eminent degree for the Grand Lodge of Illinois,
»t this time, to build, establish, endow, or support, any distinctive and specific
literary institution whatever; that to do so, would in a great measure prevent
the amiable object intended, and can not be otherwise than an unequal and
inefficient distribution of the munificence of your most worshipful body.
"Your committee will yield to none, in their earnest and deep solicitude, to
have the children of indigent and deceased brother Master Masons propeily ed-
ucated and supported — consequently nothing but a sense of imperative duty
would impel them to report against any project intended to facilitate in the
least this noble object.
"They beg, most respectfully, to present some few of the considerations
which have induced their opinion.
"The fund now in the treasury of this Grand Lodge liable to such expenditure,
is utterly insufficient to erect and permanently endow any respectable institution
of learning, nor is it safe or consistent with the prudence and caution taught in the
precepts and principles of our Order to legislate in this matter upon the faith and
dependency of any fund, expected hereafter to accrue and applicable to this
use by any legitimate action of this body. Such being the case, they are led to
doubt either the justice or policy of our engaging in any enterprise which we, at
this time, are unable to make absolutely independent of all future exigency;
and which, though our premature and unconscious action, may entail upon our
successors an oppressive and harrassing burthen to be sustained by them against
their better judgment by the enaction of oppressive dues; or which will subject
them to the humiliating mortification of suppressing a creation, so plausible on
its exterior, and probably so laudable and excellent in the eyes of the unreflect-
ing world.
"Such institutions, if established, must mainly depend upon Masons for their
support. But little help from paying scholars without the boundaries of the
Fraternity, can be relied on. For prejudice will be arrayed, in all its panoply,
to oppose any institution begotten and attempted to be sustained by any secret
association. Although in every city and hamlet in the land, secret acts of lib-
erality and charity are spoken of, which might, and not unfrequently are, traced
to these ' terrible combinations.' Yet, this unnatural and astonishing opposition
Mtill exists ! and it will exist, for ignorance is jealous of everything pretending to
LIGHT, and bigotry will bear no brother near the throne.
"In the most of cases, the ordinary dues of a Mason, together with his usual
and necessary expenditures for benevolent purposes, are fully as much as he
can bear without injury to himself or family— an increased demand on his pe-
cuniary abilities, except in emergencies to be remedied in no other way, will
unquestionably redound to the injury of the Order.
"The conducting and sustaining of such schools would be the source of warm
and zealous legislation in the Grand Lodge. This certainly is not to be denied.
The peace, harmony, and continuity of any deliberative and law-enacting body,
will be greatly secured by avoiding as much as possible complicated and exciting
subjects of legislation ; and though Freemmasonry, from its laws and usages, is
less liable than any other human institution to feuds and acrimony amongst its
members, yet wisdom and prudence demand, even in this, that every avenue
that might lead to disruption should be carefully and strongly guarded.
"Should the Grand Lodge determine to engage in the enterprise of establish-
ing schools, it would be found necessary to multiply their number greatly be-
yond the highest proposition as yet made, to suit the convenience of the various
—38
522 HTSTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
parts of this jurisdiction. Otherwise a large majority of the subordinate Lodges
could not prudently avail themselves of the benevolence intended; for if one
school only is established in each Supreme Judicial district, as the resolution of
last session suggested, the Lodges in the remote parts of the district, from a
motive of economy, would be prevented from attending the school. The cost of
equiping and sending scholars such a distance, would be infinitely greater than
the tuition would amount to in sufficiently good schools at home. At home ! where
the guardian care of those intimately intrusted in their welfare by the most en-
dearing ties of friendship and of love will be thrown around them, to protect
and assist them along the slippery and delusive paths of childhood and of youth
— to rear them up and establish them as respectable citizens in the community.
a credit to themselves and an honor to the Fraternity. It may reasonably be
expected, therefore, that the Lodges so distant as to render such schools una-
vailable to them, will feel disinclined to pay extra dues to sustain them, espe-
cially such Lodges as have children to educate and protect at home.
"Admitting that such schools might be the wants of the Fraternity, a/ear may
be entertained that from a want of wise and prudent superintendents, or from
some mal-administration in the management, they may become a reproach to
the Order. Such things have been in apparently well established institutions,
and may be apprehended in these. For the uninitiated will fix upon them a
scrutinizing eye— ready to censure and denounce the least deviation from the
strictest conventional rule — willing to^atch at the minutest accidental obliquity
as a pretext to defame and villify our venerable Institution.
"The establishment of such schools, moreover, would be naturally liable to
the charge of ostentatious display for effect. The building up of public monu-
ments to point out to the world Masonic charity, is opposed, in every feature, to
true and unadulterated Masonic principle and precept. ' Masonic charity is hum-
ble, secret, and unpretending. " It vaunteth not itself— is not puffed iip." It diffuses
itself noiselessly throughout the world, bringing JOT to the broken-hearted, and life and
hope to the disconsolate.'
"' Itdroppeth as the gentle rain from heaven
Upon the place beneath.'
"From these and many other considerations which will doubtless present
themselves to the Grand Lodge, it would seem that by such establishments we
have much to lose, and but little, if any, to gain.
"Your committee beg leave to suggest that, instead of erecting and establish-
lishing district schools as aforesaid, the subordinate Lodges under this juris-
diction be recommended by this Grand Lodge-to educate, in convenient schools,
in which the English branches are taught, all the children within proper ages, of
indigent and deceased brother Masons, whose individual means are not ade-
quate to attain the same, and who reside within their said subordinate jurisdic-
tion. Each Lodge to report under its seal to each annual communication of the
Grand Lodge, the number of children so educated within the year, together with
the time of their tuition; and that the regular charity fund annually received in
the Grand Lodge, not otherwise necessarily appropriated, be distributed to the
said Lodges educating children as aforesaid, in due and correct proportion— the
amount to each Lodge to be determined by the aggregate and individual time of
tuition to the said children so educated, during the Masonic year just then
closed.
'• The committee further recommend that our non-affiliated brethren be called
upon by the several Lodges in whose jurisdiction tliey reside, to contribute not
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 523
less than one dollar annually to this interesting and laudable enterprise — to be
expended by the Lodge so collecting, for purposes of education.
" Your committee have examined propositions and proposals, touching the
subject of education, from several places — highly creditable to the proposers,
but from the views presented herein, your committee do not deem it necessary
to present in this report the said proposals for your consideration.
" They are herewith returned to be investigated and acted upon, should the
Grand Lodge consider it expedient. All of which is respectfully submitted.
(Signed) "JOS. C. KETCHUM,
JOHN H. HOLTON,
W. C. HOBB8,
GEORGE DAVIS."
On motion,
"Resolved, That all moneys collected from subordinate Lodges and non-affili-
ated Masons within their jurisdiction for educational purposes be returned to
said subordinate Lodges, and by them appropriated to purposes of education
within their respective jurisdictions."
On motion,
"Resolved, That every subordinate Lodge under this jurisdiction he authorized
to collect the sum of one dollar from each non-affiliated Master Mason within
their respective jurisdiction, for educationnl purposes, by the Lodge collecting
the same."
On motion of Bro. Cabanis,
"Resolved, That at each session of this Grand Lodge there shall be appointed
a Committee on Credentials, whose duty it shall be to examine the credentials
of the several representatives, and report to the Grand Secretary a list of those
who are legally entitled to a voice in the Grand Lodge."
On motion,
•'Resolved, That the thanks of the Grand Lodge be tendered to the brethren
of Chicago for the use of their hall during the present session."
Bro. Reynolds, from the committee on that portion of the Grand Mas-
ter's address in relation to the physical prerequisites of candidates, re-
ported the following resolution, which was adopted:
"Resolved, That subordinate Lodges under this jurisdiction be required not
to confer the degrees on any candidate, unless he be a perfect man, having no
maim or defect in his body that may render him incapable of learning the art
and being instructed in the degrees."
The Committee on Petitions and Grievances made the following
report:
"The undersigned Committee on Petitions and Grievances, to whom was refer-
red the papers in the case of St. John's Lodge No. 13, have had the same under
consideration, and would respectfully beg leave to report, that although from
the face of the papers, appearances are somewhat against the appellants, the
Lodge is to blame for not giving the parties an opportunity to appear and
answer in their defence the charges against them, as directed by the M. AV.
Grand Master, and since from the proceedings there appears to be considerable
524 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
prejudice against them in that Lodge; and that a full, fair, and impartial in-
vestigation be had in the case, we would recommend the appointment of three
•discreet members of this body to investigate the matter, and that they have
power to re-instate the appellants to their former standing as Masons, if inno-
•cent ; or to confirm the action of the Lodge, as in their deliberate judgment
•may seem best.
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
(Signed) "WM. McMURTRY,
N. ENGLISH,
M. J. NOYES."
Which report, on motion, was amended so as to refer the whole matr-
>ler back to St. John's Lodge, with power to do and act in the matter as
the committee recommended in the report.
On motion, it was
"Resolved, That the printing of the proceedings of this session be given to
Bro. Pickett."
There being no further business, the Throne of Grace was addressed
by R. W. G. Chaplain, and the M. W. G. Lodge closed in due form.
There appearing no further business before the Grand Lodge, after
the reception of the reports and proceedings of the last annual session,
it closed in due form and harmony.
After the adjournment of the Grand Lodge, the Grand Secretary
received the following report:
"CHICAGO, October, A. L. 6849, A. D. 1849.
" To the M. W. G. Lodge of the State of Illinois:
" The committee to whom was referred ' The Masonic Text Book,' &c., by Bro.
John Dove, G. S. of the M. W. G. L. of the State of Virginia, would beg leave
respectfully to report that they have had the same under consideration, and
have given to the work as much time as could be spared from more important
duties to the Craft, though not as much as they could have wished.
;'As the result of their examination your committee would state that in their
opinion, there already existed previous to the publication of the work before
them, a sufficient if not too great a number of works professing to be text-booke
of Masonry, and that the issue of a still greater number should be rather dis-
countenanced than encouraged. A sufficient reason for this opinion is found
in the fact, that to produce any thing differing, from works of that kind now
in use, would necessitate either a departure from established usage in the work
of the Craft, or that additions should be made which could only be effected by
publishing portions of the unwritten texts of our Order. That either would be
objectionable and contrary to our ancient landmarks, no good Mason will deny.
"The committee can not pronounce the work before them free from either of
these objections. Every intelligent Mason will discover the objectionable pas-
sages without difficulty. The instances are not numerous, but where they do
not occur the matter contained may in general be found, with but few excep-
tions, in other works with which the Craft are already familiar. They would
recommend the work, however, as a good methodical compilation of useful
knowledge worthy of perusal and convenient for reference.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 525
" From the above considerations, while they would give to Bro. Dove the
merit which is due, they can not perceive that the claims of his work are suffi-
cient to authorize them to recommend its adoption as a text book in the juris-
diction of this Grand Lodge (as seems to be desired), to the exclusion of other
works which have received the commendation of, and are already familiar to
the Craft.
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
" Z. P. CABANIS,
J. V. Z. BLANEY."
CHAPTER XXV.
1850.
GRAND LODGE.
ANNUAL COMMUNICATION.
The Eleventh Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Illinois
was held at Shawneetown, commencing Monday, Oct. 7, 1850. Owing to
the meeting in April and the distance to Shawueetown, the attendance
was small. There were present the following grand officers :
" William C. Hobbs, G. Master ; John T. Lindsay, S. G. W.; Jas. W. Keyes, J. G.
W.,p. t.; William McMurtry, G. Treas.; W. B. Warren, G. Sec.; Rev. Braxton
Parrish, Chap.; A. G. Caldwell, G. Orator ; Warren A. Reed, G. S. D., p. t.; Thos.
8. Roe, G. J. D., p. t.; Chas. W. Chatterton, G. Pur., p. t; W. W. Bennett, G. Mar-
shall, p. t.; Downing Baugh, G. S. Bearer, p. t.; E. R. Roe, P. D. G. M.
" REPRESENTATIVES.
" No. 1, Warren A. Reed, S. W. No. 3, E. R. Roe, proxy W. M. No. 4, J. W. Keys,
W. M. No. 9, James L. Anderson, W. M. No. 14, A. R. Stout, S. W. No. 15, T. J.
Pickett, W. M. No. 17, W. S. Hale, proxy for W. M. No. 24, C. G. Y. Taylor, proxy
for W. M. No. 26, Wm. McMurtry, proxy for W. M. No. 27, T. Souther, proxy
for W. M. No. 31, Downing Baugh, W. M. No. 43, W. C. Hobbs, proxy for W. M.
No. 50, Cyrus A. Davis, S. W. No. 51, McKenzie Turner, J. W. No. 56, R. W.
Scanland, W. M. No. 64, S. K. Casey, W. M. No. 68, Thomas Hollowbush, W. M.
No. 71, Chas. W. Chatterton, proxy for W. M. No. 72, Thos. S. Roe, proxy for W.
M.; A. Block, proxy J. W. No. 76, W.McLaughlin, proxy for W. M. No. 77, Jona-
than Young, S. W.
" VISITING BRETHREN.
" No. 14, Adam Baker, Jno. Kirkpatrick, Milton Bartley, C. Gard. No. 64, Wm.
Haddocks. Daniel McCook, late of 122, Carrollton, Ohio; T. J. Melvin, 86,
Social, Indiana.
The Grand Lodge was opened in ample form, and, the reading of the
minutes being dispensed with, the Grand Master delivered his address,
which was an able, powerful, and very lengthy document.
HISTORY OP MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 527
lie congratulated the brethren on their being permitted to again as-
semble around "that sacred altar, erected to Him who 'sitteth in the
East forever,"' and upon the fact that the pestilence had left the juris-
diction of Illinois comparatively uninvaded. He contrasted the condition
of the Grand Lodge in 1850 with that of 1840, showing the vast increase
both in nnmber of members and Lodges. The number of Lodges in
1850, under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, was lacking
but three to make it equal to the number of members in 1849. He report-
ed the Craft, with but one exception, in a state of peace and brotherly
love. The exception was New York, where " Phillips, Herring, and Co."
still reigned. The loss of the archives of the Grand Lodge — the conven-
ing of the extra communication — the great amount of work performed
thereat — the labor devolving upon him on account of the loss of the pro-
ceedings of 1849, and the complaint made by a few discontented breth-
ren regarding the calling and convening of the extra communication —
are touched upon in words well chosen, and well calculated to restore
peace and harmony and ease the troubled minds of such as imagined
they had reason to be disturbed.
Dispensations were reported as granted for new Lodges at Salem, Gen-
eseo, Pinckneyville, Mt. Pulaski, Toulon, Galesburg,Metamora, Carthage,
Aurora, Marion, Metropolis, Middleport (Iroquois Co.), Freeport, Jeraey-
ville, Whitehall, Clinton, Princeton, and Kaskaskia.
New Boston, No. 59, which had been suspended at the annual session
of 1849, was, upon due confession of error, set to work on February 22,
1850. lie also authorized Temple Lodge No. 46, which was laboring un-
der a like disability, to resume work. He reported thegranting of many
dispensations to confer degrees; recommended the publication of the
laws, rules, and edicts as an appendix to the proceedings: called atten-
tion to the abuse of the matter of demits, declaring it to be wrong for a
brother to demit from a Lodge when he had no intention to remove from
the jurisdiction of the Lodge or to join another; denominates a non-
affiliate a "backslider, and an unfruitful half brother." He closes this
portion of his address as follows:
"Some, no doubt, request and obtain demits, impelled by motives of parsi-
mony and penuriousness, alone, to avoid the payment of the small dues exacted
by the Lodges. It is natural that such should withdraw. No SOULLESS man fan
be a Mason.
"Others demit from feelings of absolute inertia, and nothing else— they are
too lazy to do their duty."
He thus remarks upon the ballot:
"In consequence of the contradictory opinions entertained by the members
of the subordinate Lodges under this jurisdiction, as to the meaning and im-
port of a resolution adopted by this Grand Lodge at its annual communication
for 1847, to- wit:
628 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
"'Resolved, That the resolution in Grand Lodge proceedings of 1845 (page 13 of
printed minutes) be rescinded, and that subordinate Lodges be required to ballot
for candidates in every degree,'
I consider it my duty to lay the said resolution before you at this session,
either to be rescinded or explained by another resolution, so that the true mean-
ing and intention of it may be definitely understood. The resolution referred
to is certainly ambiguous. I have been called upon many times within the past
year to give my opinion on its import. The question has invariably been,
'whether the ballot for the second and third degrees was intended to decide
upon the Masonic proficiency, or upon the moral eligibility of the candidate.'
From the circumstances surrounding the resolution of '47, my opinion has been
and is, that the intention of the mover of the resolution, and most probably the
opinion of the Grand Lodge then was, that the object of the call in each of the
degrees was to decide upon the moral eligibility of the candidate for advance-
ment. Though this appeared to me to be the meaning of said resolution, and
though I instructed the Lodges that such appeared to be the law, and conse-
quently must be obeyed, yet, I think this construction of usage dangerously
erroneous and eminently unmasnnie. I am clearly of the opinion that one bal-
lot entitles the candidate to the three degrees. I will take the liberty of pre-
senting, in a very brief manner, a few of the reasons which, I think, sustain my
opinion.
"When a man petitions a Lodge in the first instance, he states 'that having
long entertained a favorable opinion of your ancient Institution, he is desirous,
if found worthy, of being admitted a member thereof He does not specifically
petition to become an Entered Apprentice alone, but to become a member of the
Fraternity. He knows little or nothing about the different degrees ; his object
is to become entitled to the rights, lights, and privileges of the Order. His petition
is referred to a committee whose duty it is to carefully inquire into the moral,
physical, and intellectual capabilities of the applicant — to decide upon his eligi-
bility to receive not only the Entered Apprentice's degree, but all the degrees
within the jurisdiction of the Lodge he petitions.
"Should the report of the committee be favorable and the ballot clear in the
first instance, the privileges of the three degrees are guaranteed to him, should
his/ufure conduct and improvement warrant his advancement.
" When an applicant is received, it is tacitly understood by every member,
that full and rigid examination has, or should have been made, respecting his
moral character and hi.s other necessary qualifications to become a Mason, other-
wise the appointment of a committee of investigation is silly and unnecessary.
According to the laws and usages of Masonry throughout its extent, an interdict
is placed upon the reception of a candidate by ballot in a less time than one
lunar month after his petition is referred ; this is to give time for full investiga-
tion. No such interdict prevails respecting the time for conferring the second
and third degrees, nor is it necessary. You will remember that the only ques-
tion touching eligibility, which is legally propounded upon the admission of a
candidate into either of the degrees after the first is, ' Has he made suitable
proficiency to warrant his request for advancement.' For, it will also be remem-
bered, that after having received the first degree, he is no longer a petitioner
for Masonry, but only for Masonic advancement — he is already introduced
within the veil of Masonic mystery — he no longer belongs to the ranks of unin-
itiated. After receiving the first degree, he is no longer responsible to Masonic
discipline for any offense committed previous to his initiation, unless it be for
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. :>2'J
aa offense committed in the preliminary parts of the ceremony. At the time he
itands as a just and upright Mason, he receives absolution for all the antecedent
offenses — full, clear, and irrevocable absolution so far as Masonry has right,
power, or control over him. Such being the case, he then begins to learn and re-
ceive those first instructions whereon to build his future moral and Masonic
edifice.
" Should an Entered Apprentice or Fellow Craft be guilty of unmasonic con-
duct after his initiation, no one will deny the right of dealing with him agreeably
to the laws and usages of the Order. He is liable to reproof, suspension, or even
expulsion, as the wisdom and justice of his peers may determine. But if no
charge for offense committed since he entered upon the ground floor can be
sustained against him, the only question which can properly arise upon his ap-
plication for advancement, is upon his suitable proficiency or Masonic knowl-
edge in the previous degrees. As this application is not made by a new, written
petition, which, by any law, must be referred to a committee of investigation,
the Lodge may decide upon his proficiency as it may determine, or as the by-
laws of the individual Lodge may set forth.
" I am well apprised that isolated cases may and do occur, which render this
view of the subject unpleasant and hard to be borne— but nevertheless to check
in his progress, or to debar a newly made brother from his regular advancement
for antecedent obliquity, can not result in the honor or profit to the Fraternity,
but in a vast majority of cases must redound to its injury and discredit. We
thereby cast out again into the world a bitter and enduring enemy to the Order
— and to all similar institutions intended for the benefit of men in this world.
We cast him from us, and thereby excite his evil and.malignant spirit, if he has
such. We crush, probably, his first impulse towards reformation, and extin-
guish, probably, the last spark of moral pride remaining in his nature.' Whereas,
should we cluster around the guilty unfortunate by brotherly love, pure exam-
ple and Masonic teaching, show him the glorious beauties of our precepts and
our practices, as contrasted with the cold and selfish customs of the outer
world, we may lead him from the path of ruin into the ways of truth and virtue.
" Masonry professes to be a moral and benevolent institution, having for its
great objects the relief of the indigent and distressed, and the elevating and
ennobling of the minds of its votaries. It professes to teach men to act upon
the square, to circumscribe their desires, and keep their passions within due
bounds. It professes the power of reformation — to be able by its teachings and
usages to enlighten, decorate, and polish the uncultivated and benighted. Such
being the case, is it not the paramount duty of every Mason to be zealous in re-
claiming the apostate from the dominion of evil, and establish him within the
halo of Temperance, Fortitude, Prudence, and Justice?
"I would not be understood by any of my remarks on the subject last referred
to, to give countenance to the passing or raising a brother until his proficiency
fully authorizes his advancement. I greatly lament that so little attention is
manifested in the Lodges to the instruction and examination of candidates for
advancement. It is impossible to realize and feel the beauty and excellency of
the succeeding, without being thoroughly enlightened upon the preceding degree
or degrees. The want of a proper education in the former degrees makes the
light of the succeeding dim and shadowy, and robs it of its glory and of its sub-
lime effect— all is tame and profitless— consequently, enduring and vital evils
result by such inattention and precipitancy, not only to the newly made Mason,
but also to the Institution of Masonry at Inrge."
630 HISTORY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS.
The following in regard to rejections :
"A practice or law prevails in this jurisdiction, as well as in many of our sister
Grand Lodges, that a rejected candidate is debarred from re-petitioning, until
after the expiration of twelve months. This usage frequently acts oppressively,
and is in principle contrary to that justice which should characterize every
action of Masonry. The interdict should cease, so soon as the disability or dis-
qualification of the rejected applicant shall have been removed. I, myself, once
voted against the admission of a candidate under an utterly wrong conception
of circumstances, which I thought at the time I fully and clearly understood.
In less than a week I became thoroughly convinced of my mistake, and deeply
lamented the injustice I had unwittingly been the cause of. Yet the law, as
understood, allowed of no redress.
"I know that it will be difficult to change this usage, without appearing to
infringe upon the inalienable and inestimable right of an unquestioned ballot,
and I am well apprised that it will require more than ordinary care to frame
any law which will mitigate the hardness of the present law, as understood,
without furnishing opportunity for dangerous abuse. Yet, I think, the dispas-
sionate wisdom of this Grand Lodge is fully adequate to the task ; and I think
as confidently, that my brethren of this body will shrink from no duty which is
calculated in the least to display mercy and justice.
I would, therefore, most respectfully suggest that a rule or law be adopted
authorizing a Lodge to receive a petition from a rejected candidate, at any time,
when it shall be made manifest to said Lodge that the supposed disqualification
did not in reality exist, or had ceased to exist; an'd when the member or mem-
bers wlio had black-balled the candidate had become fully satisfied and willing
to admit him.
"This law should also positively provide that no action whatever should be
taken in the case until duo and timely notice had been given to each and every
member of the Lodge, if possible, and particularly to each member who was
present at the time of the previous rejection, setting forth in a distinct and
unmistakable manner, the business to be considered, and the time and place of
meeting. It would be well, also, that the motion to receive the new petition
should be made, if possible, by one who had previously opposed the reception
of the applicant.
The employment by the Grand Lodge of a Grand Lecturer, to visit the
Lodges and set them to work in a proper manner, was strongly urged.
The removal of Vitruvius Lodge, from Dutchman's Point to Wheeling,
was reported, a few words of advice given, a-nd the address was referred
to Breth. Anderson. (9), Pickett (15), Roe (14), Hibbard (27), and Taylor
(24).
The following committees were then appointed:
On Credentials.— Breth. G. Secretary (3), Bennett (31), Anderson (9).
On Examining Visiting Brethren. — Breth. McLaughlin. (76), Souther
(27), and Bennett (31).
On Chartered Lodges. — Anderson (9), Hollowbush (58), and Keyes (4).
On Lodges U. D.— Breth. Hibbard (27), Hale (17), and Davis (50).
On Petitions and Grievances. — Breth. E. R. Roe (14), Taylor (24), and
McMurtry (26).
HISTORY OF MA.SONRY IN ILLINOIS. 531
On Finance and Accounts. — Breth. Bennett (31), Scanland (56). and
Reed (1).
The report on correspondence was short, and contains nothing of in-
terest at the present day. The proceedings of the several grand lodges
were not placed in the hands of the committee in time to prepare a good
report.
After the reading of this report, the Grand Lodge was " adjourned" to
9 o'clock Tuesday morning. The use of the word " adjourned," in the
record, is evidently a mistake, as the Grand Lodge had declared the
principle of adjournment of Lodges wrong, and forbidden the practice.
The Committee on Lodges U. D. recommended the granting of charters
to Whitehall Lodge, as Whitehall Lodge No. 80; to Vitruvius Lodge, as
Vitruvius Lodge No. 81; to Metamora Lodge, as Metamora Lodge No.
82 ; to Iroquois Lodge, as Iroquois Lodge No. 83 ; to Hancock Lodge, as
Hancock Lodge No. 20; to DeWitt Lodge, as DeWitt Lodge No. 84; to
Mitchell Lodge, as Mitchell Lodge No. 85 ; to Kaskaskia Lodge, as Kas-
kaskia Lodge No. 86; to Mt. Pulaski Lodge, as Mt. Pulaski Lodge No.
87.
The Finance Committee reported as follows :
"Your committee have examined the account of Bro. E. R. Roe, finding it
correct, would recommend its payment to the amount of $182. Oct. 8, 1850.
October 7, 1850.
" Upon examination we find per receipts of the Grand Treasurer that the
Grand Secretary has received and paid to him the sum of. $970 60
Amount paid by the Grand Treasurer as per vouchers $643 24
Balance on hand Grand Lodge fund $1,239 37J^
Balance on Charity fund $1,058 65
" W. W. BENNETT, ~)
R. W. SCANLAND, ^ Committee."
W. A. REED. J
The Committee on Appeals and Grievances reported as follows:
"The Committee on Petitions and Grievances have had under consideration
such cases as were presented to them, and beg leave to report as follows:
" In the case of E. J. Nicholson, presented to the committee by Warren Lodge
No. 14, they find that E. J. Nicholson had been by said Lodge expelled from all
of the rights and privileges of Ma«onry ; and that said Lodge having become
satisfied that said Nicholson was improperly expelled, they, by unanimous vote
ask leave to reinstate him in Masonry, and his membership in said Lodge.
•'Your committee therefore recommend the following resolution:
"Resolved, That E. J. Nicholson be restored to the privileges of Masonry, and
that Warren Lodge No. 14 be authorized to restore him to full membership.
"Your committee have examined an appeal in the case of Joseph P. Dennis,
who had been indefinitely suspended by Temple Lodge No. 46, for unmasonie
conduct; and they find nothing illegal or irregular in the action of said Lodge ;
they, therefore, recommend the adoption of the following resolution:
"Resolved, That the action of Temple Lodge No. 46, suspending Joseph P.
Dennis, was regular and legal, and mat the same be confirmed by the Grand
Lodge.
532 HISTOKY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS.
" In the case of Dr. J. B. Rogers, sent up by a member of Rushville Lodge No.
9, — while this committee expresses no opinion in relation to the guilt or inno-
cence of said Rogers, they are satisfied from the testimony before them that
the action of Rushville Lodge in the case has been regul&r.
" E. R. ROE,
J. MeMURTRY,
C. G. Y. TAYLOR."
The charter fee of Kaskaskia Lodge was remitted.
The Committee on the Address reported as follows:
"The coinmittee to whom was referred the address of the M. W. Grand Mas-
ter, respectfully report that they have taken that very able and valuable paper
into careful consideration, and that they commend the same to the earnest
attention of the Grand Lodge. With most of the sentiments contained in that
address, your committee most heartily concur; and they are satisfied their in-
fluence will tend to the good of Masonry.
" On the subject of reprinting the by-laws and all binding resolutions of the
Grand Lodge in one body, we are satisfied that in no other way can they all be
brought properly before the subordinate Lodges. Mot only is it a laborious
task to hunt them up through the various publications of the Grand Lodge over
which they are distributed, but the want of even these sources on the part of
many of the Lodges, makes this itself impossible. In accordance, therefore,
with the recommendation of the Grand Master, we propose the following reso-
lution:
"Resolved, That the Grand Secretary be instructed to collect and publish as
an appendix to the annual proceedings, all of the laws, by-laws, and binding
resolutions of the Grand Lodge.
"On the subject of demits, it is our opinion that the following resolution,
which is now in force, is a sufficient regulation on that subject:
" Resolved, As the opinion of this M. W. Grand Lodge, that it is contrary to
and inconsistent with the ancient usages and precepts of our Order to withdraw
from a subordinate Lodge without some good cause, or to reside in the neigh-
borhood of a subordinate Lodge without becoming a member thereof. [1842.]
"We have carefully considered that portion of the Grand Master's Address
which relates to the necessity of a separate ballot for each of the three degrees;
and propose the following:
"Resolved, That the standing resolution which requires a unanimous ballot for
each of the three degrees, should be understood literally; and that it should be
the same in each, and unanimous in all; upon the moral, intellectual, and Ma-
sonic qualifications of the applicant.
"On the question of re-balloting for rejected candidates for the honors and
privileges of Masonry, we are of opinion that the provision which requires that
they should wait one year before re-petitioning is a necessary and appropriate
one, and should be continued.
"All of which is respectfully submitted.
" E. R. ROE,
T. J. PICKETT,
J. L. ANDERSON,
C. G. Y. TAYLOR,
ELIAS HIBBARD."
Amendments to the by-laws were offered — by Bro. Taylor (24), as fol-
lows:
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 633
"Resolved, By the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of the State of Illinois that
after the permanent location the annual communication shall be held on the
4th Monday in May;"
and Bro. Hibbard (27):
"Resolved, That the 3d Section of the By-Laws of the Grand Lodge of Illinois
be so amended as to read as follows, to-wit:
'•Sec. 3 i. No member shall be eligible to the office of Grand Master, Deputy
Grand Master, Senior or Junior Warden, unless he shall have passed the chair
in some regular Lodge."
A dispensation for a Lodge at Keithsburg was ordered to issue without
fee. The Committee on Chartered Lodges reported the returns of Nos.
1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 15,18, 19, 24, 25, 26, 27, 31, 33, 38, 50, 54, 55, 56, 64, 66, 68, 71,
75, 76, 77, 78, correct. No. 39 had initiated a candidate in less than
one month, and No. 65 had disposed of a petition, after report thereon,
without ballot.
Charters were granted Rockton No. 74, Havana No. 88, Fellowship No.
89, and Jerusalem Temple No. 90.
The following grand officers were then elected:
"M. W. C. G. Y. Taylor, of Belleville, G. M.; R. W. T. J. Pickett, of Peoria, D.
G. M.; R. W. W. W. Bennett, of Mt. Vernon, S. G. W.; R. W. D. C. McNeil), of
Cambridge, J. G. W.; R. W. W. B. Warren, of Jacksonville, G. S.; R. W. Wm.
McMurtry, of Henderson, G. T.; R. W. J. T. Lindsay, of Peoria, G. O.; R. W. and
Rev. T. J. Worthington, of Jacksonville, G. C.; R. W. M. McNamara, of Spring-
field, G. Tyler.
The Grand Lodge was then permanently located, by the following vote :
First ballot — Jacksonville, 12; Peoria, 8; Springfield, 7; Alton, 5. Sec-
ond ballot — Jacksonville, 10; Peoria, 8; Springfield, 8; Alton, 2. Third
ballot — Jacksonville, 12; Peoria, 7; Springfield, 9; Alton, 5. Fourth bal-
lot— Jacksonville, 15; Peoria, 8; Springfield, 7; Alton, 4. Fifth ballot —
Jacksonville, 14; Peoria, 6; Springfield, 9; Alton, 3. Sixth ballot —
Jacksonville, 15; Peoria,!; Springfield, 17; Alton, 0. Springfield hav-
ing a majority of the votes cast, was chosen as the place for the perma-
nent location of the Grand Lodge.
On motion of Bro. Scanland:
"Resolved, That hereafter, whenever a member of a subordinate Lodge removes
permanently out of the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge, without demitting.
that said subordinate Lodge shall not be required to pay dues for said member."
The Grand Lodge was then called off until 7A o'clock P. M.
The Grand Lodge being again called to labor, the following appoint-
ments were announced:
"P. A. Whiltaker, of Rock Island, G. S. D.; A. R. Stout, of Shawneetown, G. J.
D.; R. W. Scanland, of Pittsfield, G. P.; J. W. Keyes and P. A. Dorwin, of Spring-
field, G. Stewards; Hotchkiss, of Nashville, G. M.; J. M. Scott, of Blooming-
ton, G. S. B.
534 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
After the installation, the Grand Lodge was called off until Wednes-
day, 8 o'clock A. M.
Upon the call to labor on Wednesday morning, the Committee on
Lodges U. D. recommended the granting of charters to Metropolis Lodge
as No. 92, Stewart Lodge as No. 93, Toulon Lodge as No. 94, Morning
Sun Lodge as No. 95, and Perry Lodge as No. 96.
On motion of Bro. Lindsay,
"Resolved, That this Grand Lodge politely request our worthy Bro. Wm. C.
Hobbs, Past Grand Master of this Lodge, to make out an account of the amount
of his expenses in attending this session, and present the same to the Grand
Secretary, and this Lodge empower the Grand Secretary to draw an order in
favor of 'Bro. Wm. C. Hobbs upon the Grand Secretary for the amount of said
expenses."
On motion of Bro. Scanland,
"Resolved, That it is not in the power of a majority of the members of a sub-
ordinate Lodge to surrender the charter of said Lodge, so long as seven Master
Masons, members thereof, continue to work under said charter, and according
to the ancient landmarks of Masonry."
On motion of Bro. Scanland,
"Resolved, That the old established Masonic law, that there is no appeal from
the decision of a Worshipful Master of a subordinate Lodge, except to the
Grand Lodge, is a salutary law, and should be cheerfully conformed to by sub-
ordinate Lodges."
The Committee on Finance reported as follows:
"The Committee of Finance beg leave to report that they have examined an
account of the M. W. Grand Master Hobbs, for postage and printing, amounting
to $21.76. Also an account of the Grand Secretary for postage and stationery,
amounting to $11.60, and recommend the payment.
"W. W. BENNETT,
K. W. SCANLAND,
WARREN A. REID."
Breth. Souther and Chatterton were added to the Committee on Peti-
tions and Grievances.
On motion of Bro. Bennett,
"Resolved. That the M. W. Grand Master be authorized to divide this State
into three Grand Districts, and that he appoint a- Grand Lecturer from each
district, whose duty it shall be to visit each subordinate Lodge during the
Masonic year, and instruct said Lodges in the Work and Lectures."
On motion of Bro. Hobbs,
"Resolved, That the Grand Lecturers who shall hold conferences together and
agree upon the Work and Lectures of the three degrees shall receive from this
Grand Lodge remuneration for services performed, and the said Grand Lec-
turers shall return a faithful account of all moneys paid to them by the subor-
dinate Lodges for lecturing, which said sum shall be taken into consideration
as a part, or full liquidation for their services upon a settlement with the Grand
Lodge, the Grand Lodge to pay all deficiencies, provided the balance due to the
three shall not exceed the sum of §auO."
Bro. Anderson offered the following, which was lost:
HISTOKY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS. 585
" Resolved. That it is the sense of the Grand Lodge that the subordinate Lodges
under her jurisdiction are not expected or required to pay Grand Lodge dues
for such of their members whose circumstances are too indigent to justify the
subordinate Lodge in requiring or enforcing the payment of dues."
The Grand Tyler was allowed $2.50 per day.
On motion of Bro. Hobbs,
" Resolved, That the Grand Secretary be instructed to transmit to the chairman
of the Committee on Foreign Correspondence a copy of the proceedings of each
sister Grand Lodge received in the Grand Secretary's office, as soon after the same
shall be received by said Grand Secretary as practicable."
On motion of Bro. Hobbs,
" Resolved, That in consequence of certain difficulties reported to exist by
Bro. C. F. Wurt, a Past Master of Jerusalem Lodge No. 62, between the said Je-
rusalem Lodge No. 62 and Samuel H. Davis Lodge U. D., three members be ap-
pointed a committee to examine into the alleged difficulties existing between
said Lodges, and report the particulars of the s-ame, together with their opinions,
to the M. W. Grand Master, who is hereby requested to take such action thereon
as his wisdom may suggest."
Whereupon the M. W. Grand Master announced as said committee,
Breth. Amos, of Roscoe Lodge ; Hatch, of Rockton Lodge ; and Reynolds,
of Cambridge Lodge.
On motion of Bro. Bennett,
"Resolved, That it is the sense of this Grand Lodge that no member of a Lodge
U. D. has a right to vote in his Lodge except those mentioned in the dispensa-
tion."
On motion of Bro. Stout,
"Resolved, That it is the sense of this Grand Lodge that no election for officers
should take place in a Lodge U. D.. but that all vacancies should be filled by
temporary appointments by the W. Master."
Dispensations were ordered to issue for Lodges at Lebanon, Winchester,
and Jonesboro, upon the petitioners producing the recommendations of
the nearest Lodges.
On motion of Bro. Hobbs,
" Resolved, That a committee of instruction, to consist of five, be appointed
at each- grand communication of this Grand Lodge, simultaneously with the
standing committees, whose duty shall be to hold regular meetings on each dny
of the said session, during such nours as may be established by the Grand
-Lodge; to rehearse and teach the work and lectures of the three degrees under
the jurisdiction of this body. The Grand Lecturer or Grand Lecturers, if any,
shall be ex-officio members of this committee."
The Grand Lodge was then called off. 9
536 HISTOKY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS.
OXE O'CLOCK, P. M.
The Grand Lodge resumed labor.
The Committee on Chartered Lodges reported the returns of NOB. 43,
46, 57 28 for 1849 and 1850 49, 17, and 47, were correct.
The initiations during the year were 459, and the membership 1,572.
No returns had been received from Nos. 7, 13, 29, 30, 34, 35, 36, 37, 40,
41, 42, 44, 45, 52, 53, 58, 60, 61, 62, and 63.
On motion of Bro. Eoe,
"Resolved, That the new Constitution of the Grand Lodge herewith printed,
shall, from and after the first Monday in October, 1851, be the Supreme law of
this Grand Lodge."
Bro. Hibbard offered the following, which was laid over one year :
"Resolved, That all non-affiliated Master Masons who refuse to contribute to
the support of the Institution, unless prevented by disability, do, by so doing,
forfeit all the rights, privileges, and benefits of the Order."
The Grand Lodge was then called off until 7 o'clock, at which time it
again assembled and was called to labor.
The Grand Secretary was allowed $150 and his expenses attending
the session.
On motion of Bro. Lindsay,
"Resolved unanimously, That this Lodge hereby express their sincere and
heartfelt gratitude to our worthy Bro. Wm. C. Hobbs, Past Worshipful Grand
Master of this Grand Lodge, for the deep interest he has so signally manifested
for the preservation and advancement of our Masonic principles and Masonic
virtues, by industriously guarding well the portals of the Grand Lodge and
the subordinates from the encroachment of error and innovation — and the only
testimony we can offer of our regard, respect, and admiration for him, is by
stating that his course has ever been marked with moderation, wisdom, and
true Masonic charity."
On motion of Bro. Keyes,
"Resolved, That the thanks of this Grand Lodge be tendered to the brethren of
Warren Lodge for their kindness and attention during its present session."
Bro. "Warren moved to amend the by-laws by striking out Springfield
and inserting Peoria — which was laid over one year.
The report of the Grand Treasurer was presented, as follows :
HISTORY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS. 537
WM. McMuRTRY, Grand Treasurer, in account with the Grand Lodge of the State of
Illinois, as follows :
1849. Dr.
Oct. 3. By amount on hand at this date $1,047 97>£
Feb. 1850. By amount received from Mt. Vernon Lodge, (Dues of
of 1?49.) 7 50
Oct. 7, " By amount received from Grand Secretary 618 80
Total Grand Lodge funds $1,674
1849. CONTRA. Cr.
Oct. 4. Order No. 2, Wm. Lavely $12 62
" " 3, " 10 00
" " 4, J. Doley 4 12
" " 5 or 6, N. Christy.... 1000
" " 5 or 6, Wm. Mitchell, G. 8 150 00
" " 7, Thomas J. Pickett 100 00
April 25, 1850, E. R. Roe 100 00
" " Thomas J. Pickett 15 75
" " Wm. Lavely 20 25
" " Stout 7 50
" " McNamarra 5 00
Total paid out $435 24
Amount to balance $1,239 03}X
GRAND CHARITY FUND.
Oct. 3, 18t9. By amount on hand $901 35
" " By interest from Bro. Chatterton 6 00
Oct. 7, 1850. By amount received from Grand Secretary 351 80
Feb. 7, " By dues from Mt. Vernon Lodge (1849) 750
Total Grand Charity Funds 81,266 65
CONTRA.
Oct. 4, 1849. Order No. 1, Lewis Swift 88 00
" " By amount loaned Bro. Chatterton 100 00
April 10, 1849. Order to widow Raney 100 00
Total paid out $208 00
Amount to balance 1,058 65
$1,266 65
I, William McMurtry, Grand Treasurer of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, do
hereby certify the foregoing report to be correct, as per record.
Given under my hand, this 8th day of October, 1850.
WILLIAM McMURTRY, G. T.
The report of the Grand Secretary was presented, and is as follows :
—39
538
H1STOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
WM. B. WABBF.K, Grand Secretary,
In account with the Grand Lodge of
April, '50. Cash Hardin Lodge.... $17 00|
April, '50. Cash of Cass Lodge... is GO! AMOUNT BROUGHT UP.
" N. Boston " ... 5 00 ! No. 72 Chester. 1000
" St. Clair " ... 12 00 No. 73 Batavia 900
" Bro. Pickett 92 OO'No. 76 Mt. Nebo 860
Oct. 7. I No. 77 Prairie 20 oo
No. 1 Bodley 20 50 U. D. Stewart, for Dispensation
No. 3 Harmony 25 00
No. 4 Springfield 26 00
No. 9 Rushville 30 00
No. 14 Warren 13 OOl
No. 15 Peoria 18 OOl
No. 17 Macomb 19 50!
No. 18 Lafayette 42 00
No. 19 Clinton 18 00
No. 24 St. Clair 12 00
No. 26 Hiram 10 50
No. 27 Piasa 21 00
No. 31 Mt. Vernon 13 00
No. 33 Oriental 23 00
No. 38 Olive Branch 18 OOi
No. 39 Herman 9 50
No. 43 Bloomington 15 00
No. 48 Unity 14 00
No. 50 Carrollton 14 50
No. 51 Mount Moriah 11 50
No. 54 Reclamation 6 50
No. 55 Washington 8 50
No. 56 Pittsfield 12 00
No. 59 New Boston 5 00
No. 64 Benton 12 00
No. 66 Knoxville 11 00
No. 68 Naples 8 00
No. 71 Central 10 00
Mitchell, Dis. and dues.
Pulaski "
Toulon "
Alpha "
Metamora "
Hancock "
Jerusalem Temple
Fellowship "
Metropolis "
Iroquois "
Excelsior "
Whitehall "
Morning Sun
De Witt "
Bureau "
Kaskaskia "
Vitruvius dues & charter
15 no
22 <>(»
25 do
15 00
15 00
21 50
23 OH
15 00
15 00
15 0(1
24 50
15 (id
22 00
15 00
28 00
15 00
15 f 0
14 00
f957 60
Received of Grand Secretary
the above amount of nine hun-
dred and fifty-seven dollars sixty
cents.
Oct. 7th, 1850. Also*. 13 OO
$970 60
WM. McMURTRY, G. Trtn.i.
Cash received by the Grand Secretary since the settlement with committee.
No. 2 Equality $ 5 00; No. 47 Caledonia u uo
No. 13 St. John's 11 OOJNo. 49 Cambridge 11 fo
No. 25 Franklin 35 OOi No. 57 Trio 16 Oo
No. 28 Monroe 20 50|No. 61 Lacon 15 00
No. 29 Pekin 18 00 No. 69 Eureka ]o oo
No. 34 Barry 20 OOI Havana 17 00
No. 37 Monmouth 15 OOl Perry 15 50
No. 40 Occidental 31 OO1
No. 46 Temple 24 (0 $278 60
BODLEY LODGE NO. 1.— QUIXCY.
Raisings: J. Delemater, March 18: J. G. Orr, April 15; AVHlum
Kelly, Sept. 19; A. E. Draine, Sept. 27,- Francis Bcman, Dec. ?<.
Jan. 7j the officers elected Dec. 26, 1849, were installed, as weie also the
following appointed officers: A. W. Blakesley, S. D.; II. L. Simmons,
J. D.; W. C. S. Smith, Steward and Tyler. The installation was con-
ducted by Deputy Grand Master J. II. Holton. On the 4th day of April,
1850, the Lodge buried the remains of Bro. H. S. Ctil'y. f-'c pt. 24, the
following was passed :
HISTORY OF MASONEY IN ILLINOIS. :>w
"WHEREAS, The published proceedings of the special session of the Grand
Lodge have just reached us, being five months after said session, and eleveiv
months after the session whose transactions are intended to be reported; and
•' WHEREAS, Said extra session was rendered necessary by a similar delay, and-
the subordinate Lodges put to much inconvenience and expense on that account.
" Resolved, therefore, That our representative to the O. L. be advised to use his
endeavors to have the proceedings of the Grand Lodge published from day to
day, as they occur, so that the Lodges may be enabled to know the transactions
of the Grand Lodge on the return of the representative, and that for the purpose
of economy in the published proceedings, the names of members, &c., usually
Contained in an appendix, be omitted.
"Resolved, That the constitution and by-laws reported by a committee and
published in the proceedings of 184S, be approved by the Lodge, and that the
Secretary be instructed to report this action to the Grand Secretary.
" Resolved, That this Lodge is in favor of the permanent location of the Grand
Lodge, and that our representative be authorized to vote for such place as in his-
judgment shall appear most desirable;
"AND WHEREAS, In 1817, Bodley Lodge did request an investigation into the
condition of the finances of the Grand Lodge, which by the committee was
' deemed impracticable on account of the lapse of time, the frequent changes of
officers, and the confused condition of the books and papers;'
"AND WHEREAS, There is no financial report in the printed proceedings just re-
ceived, and there is danger of like impracticability after a lapse of time, and a like
confusion of books and papers;
" Therefore, Resolved, That our representative be advised to procure a full re-
port of the finances of the Grand Lodge, including all receipts and disburse-
ments since 1848."
Dec. 26, the following officers were elected, appointed, and installed :
John Crockett, W. M.; J. H. Luce, S. W.; A. W. Blakeslcy, J. W.; Q. S.
Barton, Treas.; G. P. Heberling, Sec.; Harrison Dills, S. D.: A. E. Drain,
J. D.; T. Monroe, Steward and Tyler.
EQUALITY LODGE NO. 2.— EU.UALITV.
This Lodge did no work during 1850, nor is there anything of impor-
tance to transcribe excepting the election, which took place Dec. 27, and
resulted as follows: Edward Holeman, W. M.; John L. Campbell, S.
W.; Joseph E. Watkins, J. W.; William Siddall, Treas.; W.H.Crawford,
Sec.; John Howard and John M. Burnett, Deacons; John L. Cummings,
Tyler.
HARMONY LODGE NO. 3.— JACKSONVILLE.
The records of this Lodge in our possession close with 1849. From the
return, we are unable to ascertain definitely how many brethren were
raised, the return for 1850 having been destroyed in the fire at Peoria.
From the return of 1851, we find that one raising is reported as having
been made in 1850, viz.: D. Hosford, Oct. 8.
The officers for 1850 were: " W. W. Happy, W. M.; W. S. Hurst, S.
W.; N. English, J. W.; W. N. Ross, Treas.; R. T. Megowan, Sec.; P.
Coffman, S. D.; I. K. Skcen, J. D.; C. W. McLain, Tyler."
SPRINGFIELD LODGE NO. 4.— SPRINGFIELD.
The following raisings were had in 1850 : John T. Brisco, Jan. 21 ;
Wm. Mathews, March 25.
540 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
Dec. 27, the following officers were elected : James H. Matheny, W.
M.; Grover Ayres,S. W.; D. Wickersham, J. W.; William Lavely, Treas.;
A. R. Robinson, Sec.; E. M. Henkle, Chaplain; Balsar Hiki, Tyler.
FRIENDSHIP LODGE NO. 7.— Dixox.
Raisings. — Champion Fuller, May 15; A. R. Whitney, May 29; James
P. Dixon, June 5. %
June 20, the following officers were elected : Horace Preston, W. M.;
Champion Fuller, S. W.; James P. Dixon, J. W.; Lorenzo Wood, Treas.;
John V. Eustace, Sec.; R. B. Loveland, S. D.; LeGrand B. Wynkoop, J.
D.; D. B. McKenny and Abram Brown, Stewards : James Campbell,
Chap.; Alanson Smith, Tyler.
June 27, these officers were installed. This is the last meeting in 1850
*hat appears of record, the next meeting recorded being March 13th,
1851.
MACON LODGE NO. 8.— DECATCR.
The following named brethren were raised by No. 8 during 1850 : J.
Sinclair, Jan. 5 ; Henry Beach, May 5; William Cantrill, May 25; S. T.
Trowbridge, June 24; B. H. Cassell, July 8; S. K. Thompson, Aug. 3;
John P. Post, Aug. 17; A. Foreman, Aug. 21 ; J. W. Koehler, Sept. 2 ; J.
F. Taylor, Sept. 21.
Feb. 23, Bro. Armstrong resigned as Master, and at the same meeting
Bro. C. H. Pringle was elected his successor. March 15, a petition for a
new Lodge at Clinton was recommended. July 20, Bro. W. W. Oglesby,
the Secretary, tendered his resignation, which was accepted, and B. II.
Cassell elected as his successor.
Nov. 20, the following officers were elected : Charles H. Pringle, W.
M.; W. J. Condell, S. W.; George Goodman, J. W.; James King, Treas.;
B. H. Cassell, Sec.; D. E. Rails, Tyler.
RUSHVILLE LODGE NO. 9.— RUSHVILLE.
We are unable to extend any information regarding this Lodge for
1850, beyond the list of the officers who served the Lodge for that year.
They were as follows : James L. Anderson, W. M.; Martin L. Read, S.
W.; W. M. Murphy, J. W.; James Z. Parrott, Sec.; John B. Seeley,
Treas.: John Putnam, S. D.; N. B. Seeley, J. D.; Thomas Smathers,
Tyler.
ST. JOHN'S LODGE NO. 13.— PERU.
This Lodge made no returns to the Grand Lodge for 1850, and as we
have no records of the Lodge for that year, we are unable to present any
information in relation to it.
HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 541
WARREN LODGE NO. 14.— SHAWNEETOWN.
The third degree was not conferred by this Lodge during 1850.
On the 27th Dec. the following officers were elected : T. G. S. Herod,
W. M.: \V. A. Redman, S. W.; John T. Knox, J. W.;( Peter Baker, Treas.:
Theo. S. Hazen, Sec.; James II. Hart, S. D.; A. R. Stout, J. D.
PEORIA LODGE NO. 15.— PEORIA.
The records of this Lodge for 1850 are not in our possession. The only
information we are able to impart is the list of officers for 1850, which
were as here given : Thos. J. Pickett, "W. M.; Charles R. Hall, S. W.; John
U. Hitchcock, J. W.; Peter Sweat, Treas.; Wm. E. Baine, S. D.; Wash-
ington Corrington, J. D.; Wm. Widenham, Tyler.
MACOMB LODGE NO. 17.— MACOMB.
The raisings by this Lodge during 1850 were: A. J. Griffith, Feb. 15 ;
John Bowman and James D. Eads,1 May 4; L. T. Farris, May 20; C.
Gillihan, June 3; James P. Head, Aug. 1 ; James H.Bacon, Aug. 6;
David Lawson, Aug. 9 ; A. Hendrixon, Aug. 19 ; C. C. Lewis, Dec. 6.
June 5, the Lodge assembled to make arrangoments for the burial of
Bro. Maxwell, bnt no record of such burial appears.
The following officers were elected June 24 : Thomas A. Brooking, W.
M.; J. L. N. Hall, S. W.; G. S. Taylor, J. W.; James E. Wyne, Treas.;
James M. Campbell, Sec.; G. L. Farwell, Tyler. Breth. R. H. Broaddus
and A. W. Lewis were appointed Deacons.
July 8, the Lodge met to make arrangements for the burial of Bro.
Thos. Brooking, but there is no record to indicate that such a burial was
had.
LAFAYETTE LODGE NO. 18.— CHICAGO.
We have but little information concerning No. 18, for 1850:
Geo. S. Thurber was raised Dec. 17, which is the only raising of which
we have any knowledge.
The officers were J. C. Miller, W. M.; Philip Newbergh, S. W.; R. E.
Goodrich, J. W.; II. W. Bigelow, Treas.; I. P. Hatfield, Sec.; George
Cowper, S. D.; Wm. McMillan, J. D.; Martin Dodge and H. R. Taylor,
Stewards ; John Daly, Tyler.
CLINTON LODGE NO. 19.— PETERSBURG.
Raisings.— Anno Ritter and F. M. White, Oct. 12, 1850.
Queers— Samuel Smith, W. M.; B. D. McAfee, S. W.; A. J. Brooks,
J. W.; G. U. Miles, Treas.; John Bennett, Sec.; Samuel Black, S. D.;
A. D. Wright, J. D.: Jacob Stein, Tyler.
542 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
HANCOCK LODGE NO. 20.— CARTHAGE.
This Lodge was granted a dispensation during the year 1849, and at
the October session was granted a charter as No. 20, taking the number of
the old Lodge at the same place, which surrendered its charter in 1849.
The officers under charter were : Alex. Sympson, W. M.: Eli H. Wil-
liams, S. W.; David E. Head, J. W.
CASS LODGE NO. 23.— BEARDSTOW.V.
As we have no records of this Lodge for 1850, and as it made no returns
for that year, we can not extend any information concerning the same.
ST. CLAIR LODGE NO. 24.— BELLEVILLE.
The raisings by this Lodge during 1850 were as follows: L. H. Oat-
man, Jan. 9; M. Cohn, March 2; E. W. Dill, March 5; A. B. Sublet,
April 3; F. D. Balcour, April 19; J. A. Roman, Sept. 21 ; W. W. Roman,
Oct. 23.
Oct. 23, a petition for a new Lodge at Lebanon was recommended.
Dec. 11, the following officers were elected : N. Healy, W. M. ; L. D.
Cabanne, S. W. • E. W. Dill, J. W. ; J. Mace, Treas. • C. Theill, Sec. • J.
C. Foster and J. C. Balcour, Deacons,- W. W. Roman, Marshal: T.
Hinckley, Tyler.
FRANKLIN LODGE NO. 25.— UPI-EK ALTON*.
Officers.— D. M. Kittinger, W. M.: John S. Fisher, S. W.; Geo. R.
Stocker, J. W.: Geo. Lebold, Treas.; Eliakim Thorp, Sec.; John B.
Smith, S. D.; John C.Griffith, J. D.; Thomas Starks, Steward; H. G.
Hibbard, Tyler.
Raised. — Woodward J. Moody, H. G. Hibbard, David Settlemcir, Lewis
W. Moore, Daniel Steward, Jacob Judy, R. Kimball, Stanton Hazard, D.
M. Highfill, William Elwell, E. M. Hazard, Michael Lo\ve, Egbert
Dodge, Thos. W. Jones.
HIRAM LODGE NO. 26.— HEXDEUSO.V.
One brother was raised by this Lodge during the year, viz. : Ransom
Clark, Sept. 24.
Feb. 1, the following officers were elected : E. V. Cooper, W. M.; J.
M. Witt, S. W.; C. Clark, J. W.; S. G. Daan, Treas.; J. Henderson, Sec.;
Rev. Talbot, Chaplain.
PIASA LODGE NO. 27.— ALTOX.
The following raisings by this Lodge appear of record: Frank Col-
lanberg and David Gillespie, Feb. 2fi: Henry Heart, April 5 ; Jett,
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 543
May 4 ; M. M. Dutro, Feb. 6; William A. Patrick, July 16; S. E. Lesure,
Sept. 5; E. L. Baker, Nov. 26.
A petition for a new Lodge at Jerseyville was recommended, March.
26.
July 2, Bro. B. C. Snyder, the Master of the Lodge, was buried with
the honors of Moaonry.
July 23, Bro. Thomas Brown was elected W. M., to fill the vacancy
caused by the death of Bro. Snyder. Bro. Brown's election having va-
cated the office of S. W., Bro. B. F. Sargeant was elected to the office.
This caused another vacancy, Bro. S. being J. W., when Bro. Charles
Skillman was elected to that station.
Dec. 17, the following officers were elected : B. F. Sargeant, W. M.:
Charles Skillman, S. W.; L. S. Metcalfe, J. W.; John Booth, Sec.; J. L.
Blair, Treas.: Charles Carpenter, Tyler. The following appointments
were made: M. M. Dutro and E. L. Baker, Deacons; S. Y. McMasters,
Chaplain.
Dec. 27, these officers and those of No. 25 were publicly installed, after
which a supper was partaken of.
MONROE LODGE NO. 28.— WATERLOO.
This Lodge did not confer the third degree, during the year 1850, as
far as is shown by the records.
April 28th, a committee was appointed " to visit the widow of Brother
J. M. Wooters, deceased, and assure her of the sympathy and condolence
of the Lodge with her in her painful bereavement." This is the only
record of the death of the brother mentioned.
July 26, the following officers were elected: John Colman, W. M.;
Bradley Rust, S. W.; Jeremiah Colman, J. W.; I. M. Moore, Treas.;
Daniel Converse, Sec.; Cortez Crocker and Charles Howard, Deacons ;
John A. Reid, Tyler.
PEKIN LODGE NO. 29.— PEKI.V.
Raised. — Daniel Childs, Jan. 5 ; T. M. Claudas and David Sequin, Jan.
26; A. Brown and Joseph Elliott, Feb. 6; J. N. Blood, March 30 ; Lewis
Troub, April 6 ; C. Clauser and Jones, April 20 ; A. E. Burns, May
18; William Johns and T. L. Fitch, Aug. 3; F. P. Wright and S. P. Hig-
ginson, Aug. 24 ; Richard T. Gill, Nov. 2.
Jan. 5, thirteen brethren were fined for non-attendance. In the record
of Feb. 6, we are informed that the candidates for the third degree " were
introduced and the first section conferred on them jointly," the remain-
der being " exhibited to them severally."
On the 1st of June the following brethren were elected officers for the
ensuing year: Middleton Tackaberry, W. M.; William Wilkey, S. W.;
544 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
William Kriegar, J. W.; C. Clauser,* Treas.; B. Bailey, Sec.; A. Brown,
Chaplain ; Wm. Snyder, Tyler.
MORNING STAR LODGE NO. 30.— CANTON.
The records of this Lodge for 1850 are not in our possession. The re-
turns for 1850 show the following list of officers: J. B. E. Albright, W.
M.; David M. Smith, S. W.; Joseph C. Williams, J. W.; Henry Clark,
Treas.; John W. Shinn, Sec.; Joseph Warders, Tyler.
Raised — Isaiah Dubers, June 18; Lemuel B. Hopkins, Sept. 3; Dan'l
Prevett, Sept 4.
MT. VERNON LODGE NO. 31.— MT. VERNON.
Raised. — John W. Greatham, June 17; Finney D. Preston, June 19 ;
John R. Palmer, Oct. 5 ; Jos. Atcheson, Oct. 14.
June 21, the following officers were elected : Downing Baugh, W. M.;
W. J. Stephenson, S. W.; C. T. Pace, J. W.; George Mills, Treas.; P. D.
Preston, Sec.; W. H. Lynch, Tyler. The following appointments were
made : W. W. Bennett and W. B. Harrison, Deacons ; McBride and
J. H. Watson, Stewards.
ORIENTAL LODGE NO. 33.— CHICAGO.
The following named brethren received the third degree at the hands
of No. 33 during 1850, viz.: Buckner S. Morris, Feb. 1 ; L. J. Germain,
Feb. 15.
At the communication of March 15, the Lodge passed a resolution in-
structing its delegates to use their "utmost endeavors to influence the
Grand Lodge in favor of a General Grand Lodge." June 7, a committee
was appointed to draft resolutions expressive of the sentiments of the
Lodge in regard to the death of Bro. B. F. Christy. There appears no
record of his burial.
Dec. 20, officers as follows were elected : Carlton Drake, W. M.; W. Z.
F. Fleshman, S. W.; W. H.Adams, J. W.; Wm. B. Ring, Treas.; J. Keen,
Jr., Sec.; J. V. Kelly, S. D.; D. Spangler, J. D-; Geo. Davis, J. V. Z. Bla-
ney, and B. S. Morris, Stewards; J. Daily, Tyler.
BARRY LODGE NO. 34.— BAERY.
Officers. — George Wike, W. M.; Lewis Angles, S. W.; A. B. Leggett, J.
W.; Josiah Lippencott, Treas.; John Watson, Sec.; John P. Grubb, S. D.;
John W. Lippencott, J. D.; James L. Terry, S. and Tyler.
Raised. — C. W. McGregor, Thomas A. Gorton and P. M. Parker, April
20; Dempsey Skinner, March 29; Moses Samuel, William C. Hand-
ling, and Hugh Barker, March 23; Strother Grigsby, Aug. 17; William
Gamage, Sept. 21.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 545
CHARLESTON LODGE NO. 35.— CHARLESTON.
liaised. — James Hart, April 23 ; E. Howell, March — ; E. B. Hawkins,
June 24.
June 24, the following officers were elected: W. B. Mills, W. M.; T.
R. Hutchinson, S. W.; J. F. Parcells, J. W.; W. Horr, S. D.; R. S. Mills,
J. D.; J. J. Brown, Sec.; J. R. Jeffries, Treas.
KAVANAUGH LODGE NO. 36.— ELIZABETH.
The following raisings were had by this Lodge during 1850 : David
Rees, Feb. 10 ; John Sterritt, Feb. 27 ; E. E. Marsh, May 1 ; J. H. Mar-
shall, July 20.
No record appears of an election of officers during this year.
MONMOUTH LODG3 NO. 37.— MONMOUTII.
This Lodge added the following members to the membership of the
Fraternity in Illinois, during 1850: Reuben C. Wilson., Jan. 22; William
W. Stillwagon, March 2; John C. Bond, John W. Nance, and James D.
Smith, March 26; Charles R. Hume, April 9; E. A. Paine, July 23.
Upon the records of this Lodge we find the only record of Grand Mas-
ter Hobbs encyclical letter issued Jan. 1, 1850. As encyclical letters
are a novelty in this jurisdiction, but two, we believe, having ever b'een
published, of which this is the first, we present it entire:
" To the Worshipful Master, Wardens, and Brethren of Monmouth Lodge No. 37:
" WORSHIPFUL AND BRETHREN — When 1 had -the honor to be elected to the high
and responsible position I occupy, I determined to call on the several Lodges
within our jurisdiction, every three months, for the statement of the members
initiated since the commencement of the present Masonic year of the Grand
Lodge of Illinois, together with the general state, condition, and prospects of
each individual Lodge.
" This day brings to a close the first quarter of the year.
" I avail myself of this opportunity to congratulate you upon the unprece-
dented prosperity of our venerated Institution throughout this jurisdiction, so
far as I have been able to gain information. Several new Lodges have been
added to our care since October last, which, from the worth and reputation of
the petitioners, promise to be bright and useful ornaments to the Order.
" Freemasonry is established on so strong a foundation, and is so supported
by wisdom, strength, and beauty, that prosperity can not be otherwise than certain ;
pro vided the Brotherhood are true to their trust, and faithful to their obliga-
tions, ever bearing in mind their well defined duty to their God, their country,
their neighbor, and themselves. Having the moral application of the squarejevel,
and plumb deeply engraven upon their hearts; and so acting in all things, that
" other men " will feel constrained and zealous to join in diffusing its beautiful
principles and merciful effects over the whole world.
"The prosperity of each Lodge will mainly depend upon its own individual
management. A strict and wholesome code of by-laws, and an undeviating ad-
646 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
herence to their requirements, will insure peace and harmony within yourselves,
and, generally, respectability abroad. Attend rigidly to the pecuniary condition
of your Lodge. Avoid unnecessary expenditures and keep out of debt. This
last recommendation is vitally important. A desire for numerical strength fre-
quently beguiles a Lodge into the admission of improper persons— guard well
your door. Let not the pavement of your sanctuary resound under the footfall
of the unworthy. Attend strictly to the.keeping up of your stated meetings —
a failure in this DUTY is highly reprehensible, and can hardly be atoned for.
Avoid the conferring of degrees too hastily. Work hurriedly done is never well
done. Remember the poor and needy, the orphan and the widow. Masonry,
without active and undying charity, is "as sounding brass and as a tinkling cym-
bal." Bear with the imperfections and weakness of a brother. Remember
that "to err is human," to reclaim, almost divine; but let not your mercy or
forbearance extend so far as to be detrimental to the credit, honor, and purity
of the Order. Be brothers, according to the true Masonic sense of the term,
amongst whom no contention will arise •' except that noble contention or rather
emulation, of who can best work and best agree." Then will success crown your
efforts — peace and happiness be your reward, and your organization will be
"a light shining in the darkness, and be seen afar off."
" I have confidence, Worshipful and brethren, to believe that you will bear
xwith me in the foregoing brief recommendations and remarks. They are given
from an honest heart, and I know they will be kindly received by the warm-
hearted and the true.
" You will do me the favor to request your Secretary to furnish me, under your
authority, with the statement alluded to in the commencement of this commu-
nication.
" Accept assurances of my profound respect and fraternal regard.
" W. C. HOBBS,
Grand Master &. L. o/ Illinfiit."
Bro. Hume was raised without an examination, by virtue of a special
dispensation granted two years previously.
June 24, the annual election was held, resulting in the election of
Richard D. Hammond, as W. M.; Henry McAdams, S. W.; Henry A.
McCartney, J. W.; Jamison Leeper, Treas.; Charles K. Smith, Sec.; Geo.
"W. Palmer, S. D.; Reuben Wilson, J. D.; Benoni Mcrrifield, Tyler.
OLIVE BRANCH LODGE NO. 38.— DANVILLE.
Raised. — William Willson and Thomas Gundy, Jan. 1; William B.
Bailey, Jan. 14; James Sandusky, Feb. 19 ; Samuel Huffman, March 19 ;
Otho E. D. Culbertson, May 6 ; Isaac A. Simpson, June 19; Wm. D.
Robinson, Samuel Eakin, and Charles W. Baily, Oct. 1; Jacob Alshuler,
Dec. 3.
Officers.— Oliver L. Davis, W. M.; John W. Myers, S. W.; Reason Ho-
ton, J. W.; Thomas S. Morgan, Treas. ; John II. Sconce, Sec. ; Martin
Mondy, S. D.; James Sconce, J. D.: Isaac S. Cotton and James Sconce,
Stewards ; Peleg Spencer, Tyler.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 547
HERMAN LODGE NO. 39.— QUINCV.
Raised. — Job Valentine, April 23.
Officers.— John Steinagel, W. M.; Casper Ruff, J. W.; Richard Keis,
Treas.; Robert Voeth, Sec.; Henry Grim, S. D.; W. Webber, J. D.; Henry
Woebcken, Tyler. There appears no Senior Warden on the return.
OCCIDENTAL LODGE NO. 40.— OTTAWA.
But one brother was raised by No. 40 in the year 1850, viz.: Philo
Lindley, Dec. 23.
The officers for 1850 were : John D. Caton, W. M.; Geo. H. Norris, S.
W.; F. Mandlebaum, J. W.,- William Reddick, Treas.; H. Beach, Sec.; P.
P. Heath, S. D.; G. L. Thompson, J. D.; J. M. Quimby, Tyler.
MT. JOLIET LODGE NO. 42.— JOLIET.
Raised. — Willard Wood, Jan. 11; Reuben W. Smith and Henry C.
Northam, March 7; Oscar F. Rogers, March 21; Isaac N. Buck, April 4;
Francis W. Whitemore, June 20; John Harwood, Aug. 22.
Officers.— Thomas J. Wade, W. M.; Nelson D. El wood, S. W.; Benja-
min Richardson, J. W.; Thomas J. Kinne, Treas.; ITri Osgood, Sec.; Fla-
vins J. Briggs, S. D.; James T. McDougall, J. D.; Abijah Cagwin, Wm.
McClure, and John J. Flack, Stewards ; Joel George, Tyler.
Died. — John Davis.
BLOOMINGTON LODGE NO. 43.— BLOOMINGTON.
The raisings by this Lodge during 1850 were as follows : Samuel
"Stern, Feb. 22; Jacob Freind, May 24; A. Govenough, July 20 ; Asahel
Gridley, Aug. 16; W. J. Newman and John M. Scott, Sept. 19.
The officers elected at the annual election were : M. C. Baker, W. M.;
S. B. Brown, S. W.; Elijah Depew, J. W.; James Miller, Treas.; John
Foster, Sec.; Goodman Ferre, S. D.; Thomas Magee, J. D.; Lewis Bunn,
Tyler.
HARDIN LODGE NO. 44.— MT. STERLING.
The raisings for 1850 by this Lodge were : Eli Dennis, March 15 ;
William E. O'Rhea, March 16; H. A. Morris, March 20; Samuel Alex-
ander, March 22; D. J. Sanatt, March 26; H. A. Bates, March 29; L. W.
Miller, ; J. W. Singleton, May 30; Andrew Taylor, Aug. 20 ; D. J.
Surratt and Alex. Taylor, Dec. 17.
Jan. 16, the Lodge buried the remains of Bro. G. B. Orr. Feb. 22, it
was voted that any brother exposing his ballot should be censured. The
same evening a number of rejections having occurred, it was resolved
that any brother having a friend rejected might "vindicate his cause."
548 HISTOKY OF MASONRY IX ILLINOIS.
Dec. 13, the following officers were elected : John Taylor, W. M.; J.
M. Adams, S. W.,- A. L. Sweet, J. W.; H. A. Bates, Treas.; J. M. Ken-
drick, Sec.; J. C. Mosser, S. D.; J. C. Hedenberg, J. D.; J. L. McKasson,
Tyler.
GRIGGSVILLE LODGE NO. 45.— GRIGGSVILLE.
liaised. — Jesse Seniff, Jan. 12 ; Asahel Duff, May 4.
Oncers.— William Kinman, W. M.j William B. Scholl, S. W.; Francis
Kinman, J. W.: J. D. Battles, Treas.; James A. Kenny, Sec.; Nathan
.Phillips, S. D.; George Lytle, J. D.; James Watson, Tyler.
TEMPLE LODGE NO. 46.— PEORIA.
The raisings reported by this Lodge during 1850 were: Thomas L.
Davis, Feb. 14; Zenas N. Hotchkiss, Feb. 16; John J. Campbell, March
2; Thomas L. Chamberlain, March 6; D. D. Snyder, March 9; E. N.
Powell, May 31 ; P. M. Comeygs, June 1 ; William M. Dodge, Aug. 10 :
Isaac Moore, Aug. 31; G. Rosenfeld, Nov. 6; John Waugh and James
Milliken, Nov. 13; H. A. Frederick, Dec. 11; William S. Loomis, Dec.
18.
The officers were John C. Heyl, W. M.; John T. Lindsay, S. W.; D.
D. Stevison, J. W.; Thomas L. Davis, Treas.; N. S. Tucker, Sec.; Jona-
than S. Fancher, S. D.; David Rodecker, J. D.; William Widenham,
Tyler.
CALEDONIA LODGE NO. 47.— NORTH CALEDONIA.
Raised. — John C. Byrd and Robert Beard, Feb. 4; Mathew Joiner, March
26; Linsey Peeler and Cyrus G. Steers, April 26; James M. Gore, May
23; D. D. Mattice, July 18; S. F. Rano, "July 26; William Harluson,
Sept. 19; Charles D. Arter and Isaac Lynch, Dec. 12.
The officers for 1850 were : James M. Davidge, W. M.; Joseph Street,
S. W.; Henry D. Riddle, J. W.; D. D. Mattice, Chaplain; Absalom
Youngblood, Treas.; James M. Gore, Sec.; D. D. Arter, S. D.; Hiram
Boren, J. D.; Jas. M. Hall, Steward and Tyler.
UNITY LODGE NO. 48.— ST. CHARLES.
The raisings by this Lodge were eleven in number, as follows : G. G.
Stevens, Jan. 7; 0. Millington, Jan. 14 : John F. Wright, Jan. 21; P. A.
Fennerty, Jan. 28 ; Francis Weldon, March 4; L. M. Blaisdell March
18; Leonard Howard, May 13; A. M. Herrington, June 3; Hiram
Brown, June 17; 0. Everts, July 22; G. E. Corwin, Sept. 9.
The officers were : B. B. Payne, W. M.; S. S. Jones, S. W.; William
Rounseville, J. W.; T. P. Mattison, Treas.; A. II. Baird, Sec.; E. H.
Jacques, S. D.; Charles Hopkins, J. D.; J. Morlett and G. W. Renwick,
Stewards ; William D. Baird, Tyler.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 549
CAMBRIDGE LODGE NO. 49.— CAMBRIDGE.
Officers.— D. C. McNeil, W. M.; Joseph C. Millen, S. W.; Stephen
Palmer, J. W.; Henry Cooper, Treas.; Augustus C. Ong, Sec.; David
Norton, S. D.; Levi Leander J. D.; William S. Charles and L. S. Cady,
Stewards; M. B. Potter, Auditor; Daniel Osmer, Tyler.
Raised. — John Root, Jan. 24; D. J. Kiukead and James C. Graham,
Jan. 21 : Barclay Hinchrnan, Dec. 12.
John Root was expelled on the 13th of May following his raising, for
the killing of Eric Jansen, the head and front of the Bishop Hill Swed-
ish Colony, and of which he was also the spiritual head, prophet and ad-
viser, and for whose re-appearance on earth, as prophesied by him,
numbers in that colony are yet looking.
CARROLLTON LODGE NO. 50.— CARROLLTON.
Raised. — John C. VanOstrand and Heman Goodrich, Feb. 4; W. A. J.
Russell and James M. Davis, May 6; Martin A. Cooper, Aug. 5; Enoch
H. Dodson, Sept. 2; George W. Hamilton, Nov. 25; William Winn, Wil-
liam M. Fullaton, and Wade H. Billings, Dec. 21.
Officers. — James B. Samuel, W. M.; Cyrus A. Davis, S. W.; Samuel C.
Hopkins, J. W.; John K. Sharon, Treas.; Francis P. Vedder, Sec.; Paul
Wright, S. D.; Giles H, Turner, J. D.; Josephus Headlie, Tyler.
MT. MORIAH LODGE NO. 51.— HILLSBORO.
Officers— Joseph H. Rolston, W. M.; Jacob Lingofelter, S. W.;
McKenzie Turner, J. W.; Ira Millerd, Treas.; Robert W. Davis, Sec.;
Elias Petra, S. D.; Daniel C. Lingofelter, J. D.; Garrett Brookman,
Tyler.
Raised. — Garrett Brookman, May 9; William M. Pallett, Sept. 5;
James C. Boone, Oct. 23.
BENEVOLENT LODGE NO. 52.— MEREDOSIA.
Raised. — William C. Ham, Jan. 31 ; Julius H. Edmondson, March 12 ;
Thomas B. Speary, Josiah Newlan, and Benj. E. Taylor, March 19; Jas.
Hosmer, May 30; Jos. B. Thompson, Aug. 3; Benj. F. Bristo, Sept. 21.
Oncers.— William J. Wackerle, W. M.; John W. Trover, S. W.; J. W.
Thompson, J. W.; Thomas B. Speary, Treas.; J. C. Waldo, Sec.; S. S.
Winegar, S. D.j Sylvester Parker, J. D.; J. H. Edmondson, Tyler.
JACKSON LODGE NO. 53.— SHELBYVILLE.
This Lodge made no returns to the Grand Lodge for 1850.
RECLAMATION LODGE NO. 54.— NAUVOO.
Raised. — Henry Edwards, March 12 ; George Edmonds, Jr., March 2P>.
f,r,0 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
Officers.— D. W. Presaell, W. M.; S. G. Strong, S. W.; J. J. Piggott, J,
W.; J. J. Brint, Treas.; A. S. Kingsley, Sec.; Benj. Avise, S. D.; L. II.
Cardery, J. D.; Albert Stow, Tyler.
WASHINGTON LODGE NO. 55.— NASHVILLE.
Oncers.— Harvey Neville, W. M.; Geo. T. Hoke, S. W.; Geo. W. Hotch-
kiss, J. W.; Nahum W. Allen, Chaplain; Gabriel Jones, Treas; Darius
Greenup, Sec.: Alexander D. Hay, S. D.; Livesay Carter, J. D.; Lewis
N. Farmer, Tyler.
liaised. — "William M. Phillips, March 26; James Phillips, April 6;
David L. Phillips and William A. Lamb, Sept. 17.
PITTSFIELD LODGE NO. 56.— PJTTSFIELD.
liaised. — John Porter, April 25; Henry Moss, July 18; David Hess,
Aug. 22; Madison Chapman, Nov. 14.
Died. — B. F. Spencer, June 4.
Oncers.— Reuben W. Scanland, W. M.; Jas. F. Hyde, S. W.; John S.
Roberts, J. W.; Jas. Ward, Treas.; R. L. Howard, S. D.; Samuel Barker,
J. D.; R. H. Scanland, Steward; William Agnew, Tyler.
TRIO LODGE NO. 57. -RocK ISLAND.
Raised.— \. G. Pickett and William Kale, Jan. 31 ; J. S. Gibbons, May
2; 0. Chamberlain, April 3; J. S. Ferguson, Nov. 28.
Officers.— P. A. Whittaker, W. M.; D. A. Morris, S. W.; Robert Gra-
ham, J. W.; B. F. Barrett, Treas.; John R. Corker, Sec.; Jas. G. Blythe,
S. D.; D. B. Rice, J. D.; Frazier Wilson and A. G. Pickett, Stewards; E.
M. Heacox, Tyler.
FRATERNAL LODGE NO. 58.— MOXTICELLO.
Officers. — J. J. Patterson, W. M.; William Marquiss, S. W.; William
LaForge, J. W.; H. Zurger, Treas.; A. G. Boyer, Sec.; Joseph A. Kee, S.
D.; George Heath, J. D'.; W. M. Nesbitt, Tyler.
Raised. — George S. Young, Jan. 21 ; Alex. Geo. Boyer, Feb. 25 ; James
Cisner, March 26; George Heath, May 25 ; James Lane, June 24: James
Hubbart, July 27; John Spillman, Sept. 16 : John Mosgrove, Nov. 10.
NEW BOSTON LODGE NO. 59.— NEW BOSTON.
Raised. — Jno. E. Willets and Daniel McCurdy, June 8 ; Gilbert Brewer,
June 29 ; Hiram Mills, Oct. 26.
Officers.— Wy man Parker, W. M.; John E. Willetts,S. W.; Daniel Mc-
Curdy, J. W.; Gilbert Brewer, Treas.; E. J. Dennison,Sec.; Geo. Ralston,
S. D.: L. B. Howe, J. D.
HISTORY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS. 5-'.l
BELVIDERE LODGE NO. 60.— BELVIDERE.
Raised.— William Seward, Jan. 11; Seth Griffin, Jan. 24; William A,
Humphrey and Thomas E. Fowler, Feb. 21 ; Cornelius Council, March
1 ; Michael Decker, March 8 ; Asher E. Jenner, March 21 ; Alson L_
Ames, April 5 ; Lyman Andrews, June 20 ; Eli A. Woodruff, June 27 ;
Thomas L. Breckinridge, Nov. 28.
Died— Albert Cline, Feb. .
Officers.— Stephen C. Gooding, W. M.; D. II. Whitney, S. W.; Allen C.
Fuller, J. W.; Asa Williams, Treas.; William T. Burgess, Sec.; Stephen
A. Hurlbut, S. D.; Lyman Benson, J. D.; H. R. Mead and H. J. Doolittle,
Stewards : Horace Robinson, Tyler.
LACON LODGE NO. 61.— LACON.
Officers.— Silas Ramsey, W. M.; Hugh P. Sexton, S. W.; William Feun,.
J. W.; John T. Pride, Treas.; Thomas R. Simpson, Sec.; Isaac Springer,
S. D.; David A. Renton, J. D.; John Specht, Tyler.
liaised. — Robert Burns, William Myers, David H. Renton, Philip
Lynch, John Specht, Benj. Hewitt, J. R. Russell, Harlow Barney, James
H. Temple, William L. Bevel, Isaac Haws, Washington E. Cook, Isaac
B. Dermott, William B. Dickson, Zerah C. Warren, no dates; Peter Mc-
Donald, Oct. 3; Z. P. Beckworth and J. B. Simpson, Oct. 21; Albert
Bowman, Oct. 29 ; William Kelly, Dec. 17; L. F. Clisber, Dec. 23.
JERUSALEM LODGE NO. 62.— OREGON.
We are unable to afford any information regarding this Lodge.
ST. MARK'S LODGE NO. 63.— WOODSTOCK.
Raised. — Selden Miner, June 18.
Oncers.— Derrick C. Bush, W. M.; Almon W. King, S. W.; Elzaphan
J. Smith, J. W.; H. P. Norton, Treas.; Enos W. Smith, Sec.; Henry M.
Wait, S. D.; Henry T. Rice, J. D.; L. W. McMaster, Tyler.
BENTON LODGE NO. 64.— BENTON.
Officers.— Samuel K. Casey, W. M.; Isaac Mulkey, S. W.; T. B. Can-
trell, J. W.; Braxton Parrish, Chaplaiil ; Walter S. Akin, Treas.; Robert
E. Yost, Sec.; John II. Mulkey, S. D.; Daniel Moonyham, J. D.; James
R. Ward and William S. Crawford, Stewards; John C. Murphy, Tyler.
liaised. — James M. Dollins, March 9.
EUCLID LODGE NO. 65.— NAPERVILLE.
Raised— Rolla Pearsoll, Jan. 1 ; Walker 0. Taylor, Jan. 29 ; Hiram H.
Cody, Feb. 5; Frederick H. Mather and Samuel M. Cole, March 5;
552 HISTORY OF MASONBY IN ILLINOIS.
Henry L. Peaslee and David Hess, March 26 ; Eobert Nelson Murray,
April 9; Charles J. Sellon, May 21; Luther F.Sanderson, June 4; De-
Witt C. Butler and Cheney M. Castle, June 6 ; George Roush, July 1 ;
Willard F. Jones, Dec. 23 ; Charles Earl, Dec. 27.
Died.— Thomas Gates, Jan. 10 ; Eli Rich, Dec. 24.
Officers. — Alymer Keith, W. M.; Joseph Naper, S. W.; Nathan Allen,
J. W.; Nahum Loring, Treas.; Henry F. Vallette, Sec.; John Collins,
S. D.; George Martin, J. D.; Harry T. Wilson and Cyrus F. Tarbox,
Stewards: John Orcutt, Tyler.
KNOXVILLE LODGE NO. 66.— KNOXVILLE.
Raised. — John S. Winter, Jan. 4; George Gale, Jan. 12; Jacob Speck,
Jan. 26 ; Robertson White. Feb. 25 ; T. T. Parmenter, March 2 ; Jason
Duncan, March 4; Cyrus C. Palmer, March 9 ; Andrew Fletcher, March
16; Williams T. Butt, May 25.
Died. — Edward C. Johnson, July 29.
Officers. — Adam Brewer, W. M.; Benjamin Hebard, S. W.; Reuben
Baily, J. W.; Edward C. Johnston, Treas.; John S. Winter, Sec.; Isaac
Gulihur, S. D.; Jonathan F. Mason, J. D.; John W. Moore, Tyler; Jacob
Speck, Chaplain.
ACACIA LODGE NO. 67.— LASALLE.
Raised. — John Long, Jan. 2.
Officers.— G. A. Lindley, W. M. ; W. Henry Davis, S. W. ; James
Armour, J. W. ; Ira Hartson, Treas. ; E. D. Davis, Sec. ; Isaac H. Lamb,
S. D. ; Morris Newstadt, J. D. ; John Long, Tyler.
NAPLES LODGE NO. 68.— NAPLES.
Raised. — John Linkins and M. H. Maeck, Jan. 3 ; E. L. Grubb, Jan. 5 ;
D. K. Watson, May 5 ; Cyrus Matthews, April 27 ; David Gratton, Oct.
25 ; Thornton Bartley, Nov. 22 ; G. W. Crawford, Nov. 29 ; J. S. McFar-
land, Dec. 6 ; J. B. Davis, Dec. 13 ; John Masterson, Dec. 21.
Officers. — Nathan Dresser, W. M.; Alexandrew Lindsay, S. W.; Otho
D. Critzer, J. W.; Royal Mooers, Treas.; Edmund Fraser, Sec.; Jacob
Easminger, S.'D.; John Linkins, J. D.; John Critzer, Tyler.
EUREKA LODGE NO. 69.— CAMDEN MILLS.
Officers.— 3. M. Gilmore, W. M.; F. B. Gilmore, S. W.; John Weeks,
J. W.: N. D. Bradley, Treas.; Wm. Kelly, Sec.: Wm. Faris, S. D.:
David Kelso, J. D.; E. G. Spencer, Tyler.
Raised. — Joseph Huyett, Feb. 9 ; Jacob Adarns, March 6 ; Nazro Rey-
nolds, March 11; E. S. Morey, May 22.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 553
SOCIAL LODGE NO. 70.— HEXNBPIN.
Rawed. — H. C. Pierce, Nov. 6; W. B. D. Newman, Nov. 30; W. Dyer,
Dec. 2: Joseph Holland and A. Wardlaw, Dec. 14; Enos Prickett, Dec.
18; R. Palter, Dec. 25: Prescott Bartlett and J. Dewley, Dec. 28.
Officers.— Eli B. Ames, W. M.: L. S. Kimball, S. W.: Albert Towle, J.
W.; Elias Mott, Chaplain; J. Everett, Treas.: B. S. Reeder, Sec.: Elias
Mott, S. D.: Charles Schoffler, J. D. and Tyler.
CENTRAL LODGE NO. 71.— SPRINGFIELD.
Officers.— P. A. Dorwin, W. M.; Asa Eastman, S. W.: Isaac R. Diller,
J. W.; Thomas H. Campbell, Treas.; R. W. Diller, Sec.; Charles Fisher,
S. D.: John Cook, J. D.; B. Iliki, Tyler.
Raised. — John James Elliott, April 8.
Died.— Horace S. Cooley, March 22.
CHESTER LODGE NO. 72.— CHESTER.
Officers.— Gabriel S. Jones, W. M.: Judson Clement, S. W.; Wm. A.
Gordon, J. W.: Thos. S. Roe, Sec.: R. B. Servant, Treas.; F. Swanwick,
S. D.; Adolph Block, J. D.; John Yontz, Tyler.
Raised. — David Block and Morris Block, Aug. 17: M. A. Block, Oct.
26; Job Lawrence, Nov. 16; M. R. Ray, Dec. 14.
BATAVIA LODGE NO. 73.— BATAVIA.
Officers.— -T. Mead, Jr., W. M.: J. W. Churchill, S. W.; J. C. Waldrow,
J. W.: T. L. Cleveland, Sec.; John VanNortwick, Treas.; A. T. Phillips,
S. D.; P. L. Howe, J. D.; E. R. Phillips, Tyler.
ROCKTON LODGE NO. 74.— ROCKTON.
Raised. — Thomas Farmer, Jan. 5; Simon Rosenbaum, Jan. 8; John M.
Hulett, Feb. 12; J. L. French, Feb. 22; Robert Logan and William
Blinn, March 22; Joseph Burns, April 26 ; C. H. Spafford, July 19; Jas.
Holmes and Ziba Bennett, Aug. 26; Coe Van Brunt, Aug. 16: D. C.
Williams, Aug. 24: William R. Weld, Nov. 20.
Officers.— Rumsey Hatch, W. M.: Jesse Blinn, S. W.; A. S. Newton, J.
W.; L. W. Osgood, Treas.; A. H. Merrill, Sec.; H. A. Davidson, S. D.:
Amos Blake, J. D.: David A. Blake and William Lem'ngwell, Stewards;
Thomas Glover, Tyler.
ROSCOE LODGE NO. 7o.— ROSCOK.
Rnixed. — Thomas Baldwin and Thomas Simmons, Feb. 26 : E. P. Sex-
ton and D. S. Clark, March 12; J. A, Wilson, March 15; B. G. Wheeler,
— 40
554 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
April 12; Henry C. Smith, June 24: John Mattox, Thomas H. Nicholson,
and Edward H. Baker, Aug. 20; B. Cheney, Nov. 19; William Ward
and William Lyman, Dec. 17; R. Denton and Henry Whipple, Dec. 23;
E. H. Haskill, Dec. 21.
Officers.— Alfred E. Ames, W. M.; N. Howland, S. W.; J. G. Prentiss,
J. W.; Jabez Love, Treas.; G. P. Ransom, Sec.; F. Tyler, S. D.; L. Sex-
ton, J. D.; 0. Parker, Tyler.
MT. NEBO LODGE NO. 76.— CARLINVILI.E.
Raised. — L. J. Woods, N. Boice, D. T. Kreemer, and I. N. Quinn, Feb.
23; Henderson Sharp, March 9; Enoch Wall, March 23: W. Weir, Jr.,
April 13; Lewis Solomon, A. McKini Dubois, Dempsy Solomon, and
Travis Moor, April 20; William Rickart, Nov. 15.
Officers.— E. T. Burke, W. M.; J. M. Palmer, S. W.: L. J. Woods, J. W.;
A. S. Walker, Treas.; D. S. Brock, Sec.; N. Boice, S. D.; Wm. Weir, Jr.,
J. D.; E. Wall and I. N. Quinn, Stewards; D. T. Kreemer, Tyler.
PRAIRIE LODGE NO. 77.— PARIS.
Officers.— Kirby Benedict, W. M.; Jonathan Young, S. W.; J. D. Ja-
quith, J. W.; Geo. Hoge, Sec.; Jno. Sutherland, Treas.: W. Clark, S. D.:
E. P. Shaw, J. D.: R. C. Jones, Chaplain; Milton Mayo, Tyler.
liaised. — Alexander Chrisman, Jan. 9; Milton Mayo, C. H. Boisel, W.
H. Stout, J. T. Newlon, W. M. Givens, W. Graham, and Edgar R. E. Car-
penter, Feb. 15; Kirby Benedict and James Gordon, March 8: S. Chris-
man, March 11; Jesse Ross and Calvin Smith, 27; W. Clark. June 4;
James Steele, June 11; J. D. Jaquith, Jno. Sutherland, E. P. Shaw,
and Austin Earnest, June 12; W. H. H. McArty, July 24: W. Smick,
Aug. 21 : W. Trader, Sept. 18; W. Milliken, Sept. 19 : M. M. Dill, Sept.
21 ; 0. H. Lawrence, Sept. 23: W. J. Hodge, Sept. 24; Thomas M. Smith,
Sept. 28; Middleton W. Dickenson, Dec. 3 ; Charles B. Steele and James
M. Miller, Dec. 27.
UNION LODGE NO. 78.— WAUKEGAN.
Officers.— Salmon Stebbins, W. M.: Daniel Brewer, S. W.: Josiah
Moulton, J. W.; Thomas Wheeler, Chaplain; William Nichols, Treas.:
Wm. H. J. Nichols, Sec.: Harley Sage, S. D.; Isaac Hopkinson, J. D.:
John H. Swarthout and John Gentzell, Stewards: Thomas Dorsey,
Tyler.
SCOTT LODGE NO. 79.— CAPLYLE.
Officers.— Znpher Case. W. M.: John V. Sanks. S. W.: C. N. Halstead,
J. W.; Elias S. Dennis, Sec.: James M. Rogers, Treas.: Daniel White, S.
D.; John J. Richards, J. D.; Franklin Hervey, Tyler.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 556
Raised. — John J. Richards, Jan. 14; Sidney Breese, May 15 ; Moses E.
Richards, June 24; B. G. Ruble, Oct. 14.
WHITEHALL LODGE NO. 80.— WHITEHALL.
Raised. — J». D. Vedder, David Cole, Barney Highsinger, no dates.
Officers.— J. C. Winters, W. M.; Henry Griswold, S. W.; J. B. Mcln-
tosh, J. W.; Stark, Treas.; Asbury Davis, Sec.; Joseph Richart, S.
D.; N. Tendall, J. D.; Arthur Axley, Tyler.
VITRUVIUS LODGE NO. 81.— WHEELING.
Raised.— P. Anderson, Jan. 26; J. C. Cutshaw and W. Homer, Feb. 2.°, :
Joseph Nuttall and J. S. Sherman, April 20; William Hopps, May 18;
A. P. Hay ward and R. A. Hopps, July 20; J. M. Hinman, Aug. 1; W.
G. Cutshaw, Oct. 19.
Officers.— W. H. Davis, W. M.; Samuel Anderson, S. W.; Joseph Fil-
kins, J. W.; S. W. Sherman, Treas.; D. Boyd, Sec.; Thos. Brooks, S. D.;
Alex. Brown, J. D.; P. Anderson and J. C. Cutshaw, Stewards ; Joseph
Nuttall, Tyler.
METAMORA LODGE NO. 82.— METAMORA.
This Lodge did no work (as far as is shown by their return) during
the year 1850, beyond the first and second degrees.
Officers.— Evan Trunnell, W. M.: Edward Kipp, S. W.: John J. Perry,
J. W.; A. A. Brown, Treas.; John E. Powell, Sec.; Lyman C. Blakslee,
S. D.; Jos. T. Hammers, J. D.; Jed. Sherman, Tyler.
IROQUOIS LODGE NO. 83.— MIDDLEPORT.
Raised. — John L. Donovan, Feb. 13; Chester Noble, Feb. 14; Hamil-
ton Jefferson, March 14; Richard Taliaferro, March 21 ; Cyrus R.
Brown, Leander Hogle, and James T. Farnsworth, March 22 ; James
Fletcher and Richard Courtright, June 20 : Abraham Howery, John
Fagan, and Michael Hogle, July 26 ; Don Alonzo Falkenburg, Aug. 23 ;
William Pierce, Nov. 13; Spottswood A. Washington, John T. Donovan,
and Adam Barr. Dec. 19.
Officers.— Wm. E. Russell, W. M.; Nathaniel' Wilson, S. W.; Isaac
Courtright, J. W.; John Harwood, Sec.; William Pierce, Treas.; James
Fletcher, S. D.; Abraham Howery, J. D.; David Parker, Tyler.
DEWITT LODGE NO. 84.— CLINTON.
Raised. — Darius Hall, July 16 ; Blich Moore, July IS ; Clifton H. Moore,
Aug. 28; Alfred Gaines, Nov. 14.
Officers.— Evan. Richards, W. M.; John Warner, S. W.; Wm. S. Bates,
J. W.
556 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
MITCHELL LODGE NO. 85.— PINCKNEYVILLE.
Raised.— L. G. Jones, Feb. 26; William Ryall, March 28 ; D. M. Koge,
April 29; Lewis Humock and John Wheatley, May 28; R. H. Eaton,
July 4; Marion Hoge, Sept. 30.
Officers.— S. M. Carter, W. M.; Charles Peters, S. W.; Jose'ph L. Ham-
ilton, J. W.; Wm. C. Murphy, Treas.; Wm. Edwards, Sec.; J. J. Swan-
wick, S. D.; Lewis Humock, J. D.; John Wheatly, Tyler.
KASKASKIA LODGE NO. 86.— KASKASKIA.
This Lodge did no work on the third degree during the year 1850. The
officers were George W. Staley, W. M.; Elzey C. Coffey, S. W.; Thomas
J. Curie, J. W.; Jacob Feaman, Treas.; Ferdinand Maxwell, Sec.; Lazier
Durrall, S. D.; Louis L. Perry, J. D.; John Link, Tyler.
MT. PULASKI LODGE NO. 87.— Mr. PULASKI.
Raised. — John C. Hurt, March 14; William H. Young and A. B. Bunn,
March 29 ; Charles Sedlinger, July 3 ; J. C. Baker, July 11 ; William C.
Snyder and Granville Fain, July 18 ; D. G. Brooks, Aug. 19 ; Solomon
Cann, Aug. 29 ; W. B. Harvey and Robert Green, Sept. 2 ; R. B. Latham,
Dec. 2 ; James McGraw, Dec. 27.
Officers.— David P. Bunn, W. M.: Isaac R. Braucher, S. W.; Robert
Carlisle, J. W.; John T. Jenkins, Sec.; Alexander Edmunds, Treas.;
Timothy Leeds, S. D.; Robert 0. Parenton, J. D.; George W. Turley,
Tyler.
HAVANA LODGE NO. 88.— HAVANA.
Officers.— -R. S. Patterson, W. M.; Geo. R. Wilson, S. W.; Moses Bald-
win, J. W.; N. Rockwell, Treas.; L. Sterns, Sec.; G. Mosteller, S. D.;
Pollard Anno, J. D.: Geo. Wright, Tyler.
Raised. — Pollard Anno, Nov. 4.
FELLOWSHIP LODGE NO. 89.— MARION.
Oncers.— Robert H. Marron, W. M.; R. T. Hopper, S. W.; Wm. M.
Eubanks.J. W.: Jo. Hoffstutler, Treas.: J. M. Lewis, Sec.; B. F. Furlong,
S. D.; John S. Tutton, J. D.: Gabriel Saunders, Tyler.
Raised. — J. M. Campbell and B. F. Furlong, Aug. 2; Geo. L. Owens,
Aug. 6; Gabriel Saunders and Win. D. Spellers, Aug. 8 ; James Miller,
Aug. 10; John White, Sept. 12: John S. Tutton and J. M. Lewis, Sept.
16.
JERUSALEM TEMPLE LODGE NO. 90.— AURORA.
Raised.— L. D. Brady and W. B. Allen, March 22; Henry Nichols,
April 25; D. B. Waterman, April 26; W. S. Carr, May 2 ; A. N. Hughes,
Sept. 19 ; Ira A. W. Buck, Sept. 24.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 557
Officers.— E. F. Hall, W. M.; Burr Winton, S. W.; G. S. Adsit, J. W.;
Daniel Eastman, Sec.,- L. D. Brady, Treas.; D. B. Waterman, S. D.;
Henry Nichols, J. D.; Wyatt S. Carr, Tyler.
METROPOLIS LODGE NO. 91.— METROPOLIS.
Raised. — Henry Glass, June 24 ; Edward McMahon and G. W. West,
June 26; John M. Harrington, July 4; John V. Schauchard, Sept. 23.
Oncers.— George Hawpe, W. M.; Gabriel Kay, S. W.; H. L. Cook, J.
W.; Joseph Becker, Treas.; Thos. G. C. Davis, Sec.; S. L. Robertson, S.
D.; S. B. Caruth, J. D.; S. G. Choat, Tyler.
STEWART LODGE NO. 92.— GENESEO.
Raised — Richard Huffman, Timothy D. Crook, Thomas Crew, Wm. S.
Barnes, E. D. Hoyt, Asa Crook, no dates.
Officers.— Harman G. Reynolds, W. M.: Roderick R. Stewart, S. W.;
Benj. Graham, J. W.; Richard Huffman, Treas.; Lafayette Stewart, Sec.;
Wm. M. Dalzell, S. D.; Timothy D. Crook J. D.; E. D. Hoyt, Tyler.
TOULON LODGE NO. 93.— TOULON.
Raised. — John W. Henderson, May 20; Simon S. Heller, Charles F.
White, and Howard Ogle, Aug. 23; Milton Atherton and J. W. Halstead,
Sept. 22 ; Thomas J. Wright, Sept. 28; William F. Thomas and Thomas
J. Henderson, Nov. 11; Samuel, 2nd, and Thomas Winn, Nov. 16;
Michael Buchanan and John Calthar, Nov. 19.
Officers.— William W. Drummond, W. M.; William Rose, S. W.; Oren
Maxfield, J. W.; William F. Thomas, Treas.; Thomas J. Henderson, Sec.;
William A. Reed, S. D.; Samuel Thomas, 2nd, J. D.; Simon S. Heller
and Thomas J. Wright, Stewards; John W. Henderson, Tyler.
MORNING SUN LODGE NO. 94.— JERSEYVILLE.
Officers.— B. F. Paige, W. M.; A. B. Morene, S. W.; J. Cammell, J. W..
J. S. Gary, S. D.; J. E. Taylor, J. D.: C. H. Roberts, Sec.; S. Calhoun^
Treas.; S. Hollenback, Tyler.
Raised. — A. C. Hutchinson, Oct. 15; Marshal S. Cory, Dec. 10.
PERRY LODGE NO. 95.— PERRY.
We are unable to give any information concerning this Lodge for 1850,
beyond the names of officers, which were as follows : W. S. Dennis, W«
M.; David Baldwin, S. W.; David K. Hobbs, J. W.
ELECTIVE GRAND OFFICERS
GRAND LODGE OF ILLINOIS, FEOM 1822 TO THE PRESENT TIME.
Elected.
Grand Masters.
Lodges.
Deputy Grand Masters.
Lodges.
1822
Shadrach Bond*
Kaskas-
James Hall*
Shawnee-
1823
Kaskas-
James Hall
town.
Shawnee-
1824
James Hall*
kia.
Shawnee-
Henry H. Snow*
town.
Alton.
1825
Shawnee-
Henry H. Snow
Alton.
1826-7 to
town.
1840
1840
1841
Abraham Jonas*
1
1
James Adams*
Meredith Helm*
4
4
1842
1843
Meredith Helm*
4
3
Alexander Dunlap*
3
g
1844
Levi Lusk
9
Carding Jackson*
18
1845
1846
William F. Walker
32
26
Nelson D. Morse*
26
4
1847
1848
William Lavely
4
4
John R. Crandall*
Eflward R. Roe
46
14
1849
\VilliamC Hobb«*
43
John H Holton*
39
1850
1851...
Chris'pherG. Y. Taylor*
24
15
Thomas J. Pickett
Elias Hibbard
15
27
1868.
Eli B Ames
70
Ben L. Wiley ....
111
1853..... ...
1854
James L. Anderson*
9
9
James L. Anderson* ....
T O Wilson*.
9
18
1855
1856
1857
1858
William B. Herriok*
James H. Hibbard*
Harrison Dills
Ira A W Buck
33
27
1
90
James H. Hibbard*
James V. Z. Blaney
James H. Mntheny
27
33
4
77
1859
Ira A W Buck
90
77
1860
Ira A W Buck
9Q
77
18fil
77
Sila« C Tolep*
111
1862
78
1863
97
8
18134
1865
1866
18K7
Thomas J. Turner
Henry P. H. Bromwell...
Jerome R. Gorin
97
35
8
g
Henry P. H. Bromwell...
Jerome R. Goriri
Nathan W. Huntley
35
8
411
71
1868
Harman G. Reynolds....
333
DeWitt C. Cregier
271
*Dead.
HISTORY OF MASONKY IN ILLINOIS.
559
ELECTIVE GRAND OFFICERS— CONTINUED.
Elected.
Senior Grand Wardens.
Lodges.
Junior Grand Wardens.
Lodges.
1822
1823
John York Sawyer*
John York Sawyer
Edwards-
ville.
Edwards-
ville.
Edwards-
ville.
Ed ward s-
ville.
William M. Alexander*
William M. Alexander..
Richard J. Hamilton*...
Benjamin Mills
Jones-
born.
Jones-
boro.
Jones-
bo ro.
Vandalia.
1824
1825
1826-7 to
John York Sawyer
John York Sawyer
1840
1841
Alexander Dunlap*
3
3
9
16
27
14
29
27
27
27
31
70
4
18
27
8
1
77
150
150
150
1
8
35
342
411
71
271
7
Harrison Dills
1
1
1
8
26
29
30
18
46
38
37
3''
9
27
78
71
77
loO
111
111
111
78
187
342
411
71
140
7
290
1842
1843
Levi Lusk
William Hodge*
Joseph N. Ralston*
Henry Prather....
1844
1845
1846
David Allen*
Edgar R. Bognrdus*
John R. Crandall*
Nelson D. Morse*
John R. Crandall*
1847
Joseph C. Ketchum*
Joseph C. Ketchum
Joseph C. Ketchum
William W. Bennett*
Eli B. Ames
Isaac R. Diller
T. O.Wilson «
James H. Hibbard*
Jerome R. Gorin
Harrison Dills
Fergus M. Blair
Andrew J. Kuykendall..
Andrew J. Kuykendall..
Andrew J. Kuykendall..
Asa W. Blakesley
Jerome R. Gorin
Henry P. H. Bromwell...
Edwin F. Babcock
Nathan W. Huntley
Charles Fisher
DeWitt C. Cregier
James A. Hawley
Matthias Taylor
1848
1849
1850
William C. Hobbs*
William E. Russell*
Daniel C. McNeil*
1851
1852
1853
1854
Carlton Drake
James L. Anderson*
William H. Turner
Elijah M. Haines
1855
1856
1857
1858
1859
1860
1861
1802
1863
1864
1805
18C6
1867
1868
William A. Dickey*
Fergus M. Blair
Andrew J. Kuykendall..
Silas 0. Toler*
•Silas C. Toler
Silas C. Toler
John C Baker
Edwin F. Babcock
Nathan W. Huntley
James A. Hawley
George E. Lounsbury...
*Dead.
ELECTIVE GRAND OFFICERS— CONTINUED.
Elected.
Grand Treasurers.
Lodges.
Grand Secretaries.
Lodges.
1822
James O. Wattles
Albion
IRichard T. McKinney..
Edwards-
ville
1823
James O. Wattles
Albion
Richard T. McKinney..
Edwards-
ville
1824
James O. Wattles
Albion William H. Brown
Vandal ia.
1825
James O. Wattles
Albion William H. Brown
Vandalia.
1 826-40
1840
Philip Coffman
.^
William R Wnvrp.n
0
1841....
Phil in Coffman ...
Wiiiiam B. Warren
3
560 HISTOEY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
ELECTIVE GRAND OFFICERS.— CONTINUED.
Elected.
Grand Treasurers.
Lodges.
Grand Secretaries.
Lodge
1842
Philip Coffman
William B Warren
1843
Philip Coffman
3
1844
3
1815
Jarnes L. Anderson
9
9
1846
James L. Anderson
9
I-icvi Lusk
g
1847
William McMurtry
26
William Mitchell
15
1818
William McMurtry
26
William Mitchell
15
1849
William McMurtry
26
William Mitchell
15
1850
1851
William McMurtry
William McMurtrv
26
26
William B. Warren
3
66
1852
William McMurtry
9(5
66
1853
1854
William McMurtry
William McMurtry
26
26
Harman G. Reynolds ...
6fi
66
1855
1856
1857
William McMurtry
William McMurtry
26
26
26 '
Harman G. Reynolds ...
Harman G. Reynolds ...
66
66
66
1858
1859
I860
1801
1862
William McMurtry
William McMurlry
William McMurtry
William McMurtry
James R. Mack
26
26
26
26
158
Harman G. Reynolds ...
Harman G. Reynolds ...
Harman G. Reynolds ...
Harman G. Reynolds ...
4
4
333
333
333
1863
1864
Harrison Dills
1
1
Harman G. Reynolds ...
333
333
]865
1
333
1866
1
'533
1X67
1868
Harrison Dills
Harrison Dills
1
1
Harman G. Reynolds ...
Urlin H. Miner
333
:!:;:>,
ELECTIVE GRAND OFFICERS— CONTINUED.
Elected.
Grand Chaplains.
Lodges.
Grand Orators.
Lodges.
1822
18'H
Benjamin Mills
H W Oshorn
4
Francis \ McNeill
4
James Shields
4
1842
Francis A. McNeill
4
8
James H. Matheny
H. 8 Cooley
4
1
25
R. E. Smith
1
Charles V Kelly
40
(William Stuart
32
1816
Charles V. Kelly
N P Heath
40
15
William F. Walker
Edward R. Roe
32
14
27
15
4
A. G. C'aMwell
2
1850
J. T. Worthington.
3
27
'John T. Lindsay
46
27
R E Guthrie
4
40
1813
Win. K. Johnson
84
4
;Charles E. Dodge
Isaac R Diller
4
4
4
4
1856
David P. Buim
8
4
James H. Matheny
4
76
1 pwi« P Clover
4
30
1859
isfio
Noyes W. Miner
.Tames L. Crane
4
77
Stephen A. Hurlbut
Elv S. Parker ....
60
273
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
ELECTIVE GRAND OFFICERS— CONTINUED.
Elected. Grand Chaplains.
Lodges.
Grand Orators.
Lodges.
1861
1862
1863
1864
James L. Crane
\ K Cobleigh
77
110
60
440
440
33
8
8
Henry P. H. Bromwell ..
Henry H. P. Bromwell ..
Allen C Fuller
35
35
60
4
296
500
71
290
.1 'I1 Orr
1865 . . J T Orr
Martin W Willis
1866 O II Tiffany ...
James I Davidson
1867 1 David P Bunn
1868 David P. Bunn
Joseph Robbins
APPOINTED GRAND OFFICERS.
Year.
Dep. Grand Secretaries.
Lodges.
Grand Pursuivants.
Lodges.
18"
1823
William II. Brown . .
Vandal ia.
Vandalia
1824
Robert H Peebles
1825
Charles Dunn
unknown
1826 1840
1840
1841
1842 . ..
W. D. McCann
W. D. McCann
9
9
4
0
3
3
3
John Gregory
1843 .. ..
1844
1845
1846
Adams Dunlap
Charles H. Larrabee
James Price
9
32
26
Richard F. Kippinburg.
Arnold R. Robinson
Webb C. Quigley
23
4
29
38
46
56
49
27
119
51
26
160
160
20
20
260
15
280
31
31
143
263
263
86
1847
1848 R. W. Diller
1849 William Lavely
4
4
70
66
66
66
66
57
William E. Russell
Clark B. Stebbins
1850
1851 Silas Ramsey
1852 John S. Winter
1853 Tacoh W. Brewer
Reuben W. Scanland
W. W. Drummond
J. W. Smith
Stephen Bennett
1854
1855
1856
John S. Winter
Patrick A. Whittaker ...
J. C McMurtry
Ezra J. Higgins
1857
1858
1859
1860
1861
1862
1863
1864
1865
1866
1867
1868
Benjamin F. Barry
John S. Winter
27
66
77
71
71
333
333
333
333
333
333
C. C. Sympson
C. C. Svmpson
James Steele
Leven W. Shepherd
Leven W. Shepherd
John C. Reynolds
John C. Reynolds
John C. Reynolds
John C. Reynolds
John C. Reynolds
John C. Reynolds
X. W. Chapman
D W Zink
Charles T. Pace
Charles T Pace
Charles Spaldinp
Charles Spalding
George W. Staler
—41
562 HISTORY OP MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
APPOINTED GRAND OFFICERS— CONTINUED.
Year.
Grand Marshals.
Lodges.
G. Standard Bearers.
;
Lodges.
1822
;
1823
1824
1825
Emanuel J. West
Alton
Guy W Smith . . ..
Palestine.
1826-1840.
1840
1841
1842
S, W. Lucas
A. C. Diekson
A. C. Dickson
3
3
3
1843
1844
1845
P. Underwood, Jr
Mathew Stao.y
John H. Holton
23
3
1
26
15
49
3
55
4
45
66
66
150
150
61
175
211
15
211
27
57
1
245
76
9
347
1816
1847
1848
William McMurtry
Peter Sweat
Hannan G. Reynolds
Nathaniel English
:
1849
1850
1851 . .
1852
3853
Amos Hill
1854
1855 .
Cyrus C. Palmer
Andrew J. Kuykendall..
Andrew J. Kuykendall..
E A Whipple
1856
1857
1858
1859 . . ..
Robert Keith
113
77
7
49
49
1
77
14R
76
111
51
27
George R. McGregor
Phares A. Dorwin
Henry A. Chase
1860
1861
1862
David D. Irons
Reuben Cleveland
Michael Grant
Michael Grant
John W. Banker
1863
1864
1865
James M. Buford
James Lowe
Daniel G Burr
Daniel Frost
Samuel B Dugger
1860 Samuel B. Duggor
1867 '.John C. Bagby
1868 IGeo. W. Hartman
Isaac S. Blackwelder
Isaac E. Hardy
APPOINTED GRAND OFFICERS— CONTIHUED.
Year.
Grand Stewards.
Lodges. : Grand Stewards.
Lodges.
1822
!
1823
1824 '.TamAfiS Smith
Jonesb'ro
iJohn Warnock
Vandalia.
1825
Hart Fellows
'John WhittaUer
]g->g 1840
1840
1841
1842
L. B.Adams 4
James Magorian 6
F G. Johnston
1
3
A. V. Putnam
1843
1844
1845
1846
1847
1848
1849
1850
1851
1852
L. C. Kercheval
Henrv C. Reman n
John'C. Heyl
Harrison Dills
18
16
15
1
27
33
14
71
4
13
Samuel H. Davis
15
39
27
33
14
4
4
51
E J Harper
John T Knox
D A Morris
Warren Brown
McKenzie Turner
HISTOKY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
APPOINTED GRAND OFFICE RS— CONTINUED.
Year.
Grand Stewards.
Lodges.
Grand Stewards.
Lodgea.
1853
13
113
4
4
4
4
4
71
71
71
71
71
71
4
4
4
Robert Keith
113
1854
1855
1856
Robert Keith
Orson N. Stafford
Orson N Stafford .. ..
Stephen Bennett
{Ezra J. Higgins
160
4
111
77
A *
71
71
4
71
333
4
P. V. ViiiiiXorstran
iSilas C. Toler
1857
1858
1859
1860
Orson N. Stafford...
Orson N. Stafford
Orson N. Stafford
!Daniel G. Burr :..
Phares A. L'orwin
Orson A". Stafford
1861 Charles Fisher
18(52 Charles Fisher
Or-^on N Stafford
William F. Elkin.Jr
William F. Elkin.Jr
1864
1865
I860
Orson N Stafford
1867
Orson N Staffitnl -
1868 [Orson N. Stafford
'Arnold R. Robinson
APPOINTED GRAND OFFICERS -CoNiixcw).
Year.
Grand Sword Bearers.
Lodges.
ISenior Grand Deacons.
i
Lodge*.
1822 4
J
James 31. Duncan
Vaudalia.
Vaudalia.
Vanaaiia.
VunduJiu.
1823 '
1824
1825
1826—10
.Robert H.Peebles
Robert H. Peebles
1840 JLytle Gritting
6
4
4
4
4
U
'!
46
40
43
27
33
45
77
113
130
146
16
1*6
78
155
279
53
77
Hri
Ib'J
MB
97
^.Meredith Helm
4
1
4
1
15
43
at
67
67
5(1
8
4«
43
18
14
29
29
1841 Maurice Doyle
John Crockett
1842 James Zwisler, Jr ..
1843 James* Zwisler, Jr
1844 William Lavely
Jeese B. Conyers
1845 William Ervin
1816 Peter Sweat
1847 'John H. Hohon
'William C. Hobbs
1848 Clark B. StehbinH
William W. Bennett......
Patrick A. Whittaker....
•Patrick A. Whittaker....
Reuben W. Scaularid ....
'William S. Hurst.
1849
William H. L. Wallace...
J. M. Scott
J. W. Smith
1860
1851
1862
J. P. Waterhouse
1853
William Kininan
1854
Jonathan Young
•Juhu M Scott
1856 .
1856
1857
Daniel Frost
18')8
1859
I860
1861
1862
18fi3
1864
1865
1866
18*57
1868
Lewis Keyon
Robert Gibson
John C. Baker
iVV'illiaiii V Plum
(Wiley M. Kgan
iill
187
""iil"'
272
1
1
290
•M
Culeb Finch
George W. Albin
C. L. Underwood
Daniel G. Burr
Daniel Frost
!James C. Luckey
^iram W7. Hubbard
LNathau W. Huntley
Thomas U. Hay
Jay G. Callender
Jay G. Callender
S. C. bucninuii....
(.ieorge E. Loiinsbury...
•Willmin G. Swan
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
APPOINTED GRAND OFFICERS— CONTINUED.
Year.
Junior Grand Deacons.
Lodges. Grand Tylers.
Lodge?.
1822
1823
Richard J. Hamilton
Richard J. Hamilton
Emanuel J. West
Erastus Brown
Jones-
boro.
Jones-
boro.
Alton.
Vandal ia.
Vandalia.
Vandalia.
Vandalia.
Vandalia.
'Joseph Enos
1824
1825
Joseph Enos
Joseph Enos
1826 to '40
1840
John Crockett
1
4
8
19
8
19
23
36
8
29
14
1
jC. Ludlum
3
3
3
3
3
3
25
25
33
14
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
•4
4
4
438
438
438
1841
Samuel Matlack
George Hackett
1842 . . .
1843
John Bennett
George Haokett
1814
1845
Charles H. Pringle
'George Haokett
184fi
1847
R. P. Kippinbnrg
William B. Mills
David M. Kittinger
David M. Kittinger
1848
1849
Webb C Quiglev
Aaron R Stout
1850
1851
1852
1853 ... .
Aaron R. Stout
Asa W. Blakesley
R. S. Patterson
William M. Eubankn ....
Michael McNarnara
A. R. Robinson
A. R. Robinson
A. R Robinson
I£lo4
Reuben \V. Scanland
56
i46
A. R. Robinson
1855
1850
1857
1858
Henry T. Mudd
Daniel Frost
James Monroe
A. R. Robinson
|A. R. Robinson
1859
1860
1861
1862
1863
1864
1865
1866
1867
1868
Thomas W. Hay
272
91
A. R. Robinson
A. R. Robinson
Hiram W. Hubbard
A. R. Robinson
John Bennett
Thomas W. Hay
George Mason
Rodney Ashley
19
272
509
389
389
409
17o
jA. R. Robinson
Orson N. Stafford
lOrson N. Stafford
'Orson N. Stafford
Rodney Ashley
David A. Cashman
Samuel C. Stearns
John P. Ferns
APPOINTED GRAND OFFICERS— CONTIXUKD.
Year
Grand Lecturers.
Lodges.
Year
Grand Lecturers.
Lodges.
1822..
1823
1851
Charles Howard.. .
27
37
66
86
yi
f6
1852.
1853
IXJU
Daniel C. McNeil
^Reuben W. Scanland...
George W. Stalcy
'James H. Hibb»r<i.
1824..
18?6..
1826
to '40
1840
Henry H. Snow
Alton.
1841
lUtt
1842
1856.
1857.
1858..
jWilliam McMillan
1843..
1844..
1845..
1846.
1847..
1848..
1849..
1SSII..
Levi Lusk
Levi Lusk ....•
John Barney
9
9
32
32
11
1
James J. Huntley
Thomas Moore
i Charles Fisher
' 91
71
40
9
g
42
63
iThomas J Wade
Carding Jackson
Benj. Richardson
Leander Church
James H. Lnr.R
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
APPOINTED GRAND OFFICERS— CONTINUED.
Year
Grand Lecturers.
Lodges.
Year Grand Lecturers.
Lodge*.
1858..
IM9..
I860..
18<H
D W. Thompson
189
71
20
71
149
ill
9
40
71
63
42
189
20
149
234
333
187
63
78
42
40
13
20
I
71
27
17
1865 Thomas J. Wade
4<i
241
241
33
1
29U
161
Thomas J. Prickett
Elijah Spiller
P A Dorwin
Paul B. Ring
Calvin B Kitchell
; Ephraim MoFarland
George K. Loiuisbury...
A. L. Virden "....
IE A Ross
Levi Lusk
1866.. i Thomas J. Wade
lM. D. Chamberlin
Thomas J. Prickett
40
97
241
389
77
161
209
112
359
71
400
63
290
1
Hiram W. Hubbard
D W Thomson
Daniel G Burr
A L Virden
Calvin B Kitohell
H W Johnson
Harman G. Reynolds....
A. S Babcock
Phares A. Dorwin i
John C. Baker
H W Hubbard
B F Church
|Geo. E. Luniif-bury
1807
1S68 John W Clyde
33
241
161
587
77
40
97
209
141
71
389
63
38
1
169
400
201
143
241
64
58 i
63
97
40
241
as
241
161
687
77
John W Banker
"iThomanJ. Prickett
R D Hammond ....
1862..
I £63.
]Wi4.
1866.
Levi Lusk
9
1
40
IM D Chamberlin
Gilbert W. Barnard
Paul B King
63
51.
71
64
111
77
18d
27
272
342
16
389
155
18
311
7
!)7
97
40
8
1C
77
161
07
•10
241
97
B F Church
William A H-ioker
!A 8 babcoek
D G Burr
E. J. Rice
W ,1 -V Dt-Lancy
'Julias L. Devvey
George C. Lanphere
; OVERSEERS OF THE WORK.
1SC7.. M. D. Charnberlin
M. I). Chamberlin
Thomas J Wade
Thomas J. Prickett
I.NSPECTORH.
186s.. John W. Clyde
'1 IIOIIIMS .1. Prickett
A. L. Virden
•M. i>. Chamberlin
: Thomas .1. Prickttt
M. D. Chamberlin
56tf HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS,
COMMITTEES.
Year
On Constitution and
By-Laws.
Lodges.
Year
On Constitution and
By-Laws.
Lodges.
1822..
1840..
1846..
Thomas Reynolds
C. W. Hunter
Kaskas-
Kia.
Alton.
Albion.
Coving-
ton.
Jonesb'ro
Vandalia.
Shawnee-
town.
Edwards-
ville.
3
3
6
33
1849*
JI850..
[1855..
1867..
i
William Lavely
Asa W. Blakeslev
4
1
82
33
60
33
8
111
1
8
333
416
24
Gilbert T. Pell
John J. Perry
William B Herriek
H. G. Reynolds
Ahner Field
William H. Brown
Jerome R. Gorin
John York Sawyer
William B. Warren
John T. Jones
David P. Bunn.."
H G Revnold-<
Wilson HoHg
W. D. McCann
William F. Walker
*A committee appointed, but no record appears.
COMMITTEES— CONTIXV ED.
Year
On Finance.
Lodges.
Year
On Finance.
Lodges.
1822..
1823..
1824..
1826..
1827
to '40
IS40..
1841..
184i.
1843..
1844..
1845..
184fi..
1847
Joseph C. Ketcham
William Mitchell
'il
15
1
2
1848..
184')
Henry L. Webb
Richnrd J. Hamilton ...
Thomas Y. Reynolds....
Jonesb ro
Jonesb ro
Kaskas-
kia.
Albion.
Alton.
Alton.
Charles Howard
William B. Warren
.hunt's L. Anderson
William Siddall
Henry H. Snow
Ernanuel J. West
1850..
1851..
1S-.V2..
,1853..
1854..
!
1855..
18o(i..
April— Win. B. Warren..
8. G Dean
:{
•M
18
ill
,p>fi
1
27
i;«
fil
33
Ofi
ft
(51
38
Tt
70
4
<;<;
W
184
27
88
90
•2~
J. C. .Miller
S. W. Lucas
3
3
4
3
4
4
3
:t
4
;;
2C,
27
1!)
19
i6
32
9
4
3
( ict.— W . V\ . Bennett
Keuben W. Seanland ...
Jonathan F. Mason
\\ illiam H. Turner
A. V. Putnam
Alexander bunlap
.Nelson D. Morse
|l'avid Allen
Fli B. Ames
John McNeal
Alymer Keith
Wellington Loucks
William Stewart
,James L Anderson
Leopold Sterns
Ira A W Buck
JW. W. Happy .'.
James H. Hibbard
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
COMMITTEES— COXTIXITED.
567
Y«ar
On Finance.
Lodges.
Year
On Finance.
Lodges.
1850..
1857..
1858..
1859.
I860..
1861..
1862..
1863..
Sylvester Stevens
Sylvester Stevens
B F Barry
66
66
27
134
27
90 -
tew
27
175
90
166
IfiO
2fl8
175
8
158
8
160
175
308
1
1863..
1861..
1865..
1866..
1867..
1868-
G. I. Ladd
*G. C. Lanphere
*<> H Miner
226
155
333
7
155
333
155
333
155
333
1
333
1
312
155
44
561
198
0. B. Beckwith
James H. Hihbard
*Janies A. Hawley
George C. Lanphere
Ira 4 W Buck
A L Mitchell...
O. H Miner .'
James H HU>bard
George C. Lanphere
W B Allen
O. H Miner
E. F. W. Ellis
E. W.Jones
George C. Lanphere
O H Miner
WillUm S. Brooks
O. H. Miner
Jerome R. Gorin
E W Jone«
James Lowe
George C. Lanphere
A A Glenn
L \ Fuller
(teorge W. Deering
James Lowe
Jimes Hill
George A. Gilbert
* Appointed in vacation.
CO M M ITTE ES— CONTINUED.
Year On Credentials.
Lodges.
Year
On Credentials.
Lodges.
1824..
1826..
1827
to '40
1840..
1841..
1842.
1843..
1844..
1845..
1846..
John York Sawyer
Edwards-
ville.
Albion.
Albion.
Alton'""
1*53..
1854..
1855..
1856..
1857..
R. S. Patterson
88
60
40
66
104
7«
116
27
33
97
37
39
78
91
39
1
1
155
29
\
57
250
234
111
65
J. B. Samuels
Thomas J. Wade
James Price
Alex. Hart
John W. Proctor
S C Stevens
H. S. Jacobs
W. H. Turner
W. 8. Vance
James Adams
3
4
1
B. B. Stevens
David Rice
4 E Drain
E. M. Haines
Thomas Moore
Samuel Hutton
Asa W. Blakesly
J. B. Kyle
1858..
1859..
Cesar A. Roberts
Asa W. Blakesly
George C. Lanphere
Cesar A. Roberts
Asa W. Blakesley
T J Buford
ien..
U18..
1849..
18.50..
1851
\V B. Warren
3
31
9
W. VV. Bennett
James L. Anderson
John T. Cox
G. C. Ward
W. A Hacker
1852.. 1 A. W. Blakesley
IJ.H. Hibbard
27
Jas. J. Hunt
568 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
COMMITTEES— CONTINUED.
Year
On Credentials.
Lodges.
Year
On Credentials.
Lodges.
1859..
I860..
1861.
1862..
1863..
C. B. Wells
Asa W. Blakesly
139
1
268
143
227
283
324
4
1
15
24*
2119
97
77
no
77
155
13
310
20
270
320
312
is 63.
1«64
John Ruggles, Jr
187
66
28
35
63
141
ian
77
359
77
91
20
4
88
71
228
333
71
70
500
3.50
130
IT. J. Hale
James Steele
18t>5..
1866.
1867.
1868.
H (' Talbott
A. Ransom
A. B. McNeal
j L. Chureh
N. E. Ballon
J. C. Baker
;W B Bateham
T W Black
J. H. Matheny
D G. Burr :
Asa W. Blakeslv
A. !S. Bab-ock
D G Burr
David I) Irons
J. T Soudder ...
A. B Keith
D. E. Head
D G Burr
J (' Winslow
C H. Flower
M. I-'.. Chase
John C. Reynolds
f. H. Flower
E. W. Jones
D E Head
Geo H Harlow
C C Warren
T M Morse
A. A. Murray
CO MM ITT E ES— CONTINUED.
Year
Appeals and Grievances;
Lodges.
Year
ls-n;..
1847..
1848..
1S49..
1850..
18il
Appeals and Grievances
Lodges.
1824..
l^HHMM
1826..
1827^
to '40
1840..
1841..
1842..
TS43..
1844..
1845..
1846..
William Alexander
James M.Duncan
Thomas Y. Reynolds ... ;
James O. Wattles
Jonesb'ro
Vandalia.
Kaskas-
kia.
Albion.
Jonesb'ro
Albion.
William Lavely
W. W. Happy
4
3
15
30
I
2rt
9
27
59
79
3
24
26
Samuel H. Davis
Adam Brewer
Henry L. Webb
Henry J MilfV
William McMurtry
Joseph C. Ketchum
Harrison Dills
1
3
3
4
1
3
4
1
8
1*.
8
9
8
17
24
15
17
28
9
Z Case
Alexander Dunlap
Mathew Stncv
E. R. Roe
C. G. Y. Tavlor
Meredith Helm
1862..
1858..
1864..
1S5.V.
26
9
37
4«
90
39
145
49
113
145
33
9
4R
56
Meredith Helm
J. H. Luce
Daniel C McNeil
J. S Post ...
John C. HPV!
Ira A W Buck
N L Scovillo
A. W. Rawson
Charles H. Pringlc
C M Bartle«on
R C Cibeen
John C Hevl ... I
W B Herriek
William Ervin I
EMM Clarke
W H Gavle
James L. Anderson
M.J. Noyes
HISTORY OP MASONRY IN ILLINOIS..
COMMITTEES— CONTINUED.
569
Year
Appeals and Grievances
Lodges.
Year
Appeals and Grievances
Lodges.
1856..
William McMurtry
26
33
1862..
J. L. Anderson
H W Hubbard
9
Andrew J. Kuykendall
150
* P. A. Armstrong
124
David B. Rice
37
John T. Douglass
268
J. B. Kyle
17
*Edmund Wilcox
175
Stephen Palmer
49
1863
James A. Hawley
7
John Bennett
19
J. W. Smull
144
1857..
James R. Mack
158
W. T. Sylvester
366
John H. Weir
99
D. C. Cregier ..>
271
N. H. Dearborn
48
13
John C Heyl
15
1864
9
L. P. Cheeney
211
50
1858..
Michael J. Noyes
66
P. Hudson
178
Charles Howard
25
1865..
J. R. Gorin t
8
Thomas J Wade
40
133
Elias Hihbarcl
27
F. Hudson
178
Reuben Cleveland
211
J. F. Alexander...™
245
1859..
Michael J. Noyes
56
T. M. Morse
350
Thomas J. Wade
40
I860..
4
Stephen A. Hurlbut
60
Levi Lusk
9
Louis Keyon
15
Ira A. W. Buck
90
E. W. Vining
190
56
Jacob Harding
77
George W Teel
35
Charles Wheaton
73
1867..
A. W. Blakesly
1
I860..
M. J. Noves
56
P. A. Dorwin
71
S. A. Hurlbut
60
381
H W Hubbard
42
44
14
F Hudson
178
W. B. Allen
90
J. N. Ryan
24
J. B. Samuel
50
143
263
1868..
178
1861..
M. J. Noyes
66
John C. Baker
78
Thos J Wade
40
150
P. A. Armstrong
124
Reuben Cleveland
211
D G Burr
77
J B Samuel
50
H. W. Johnson
234
George Mason
509
*Not present, Gilbert R. Smith, 271; and David Wiley, 24, substituted.
COMMITTEES-CONTINUED.
Year
On Obituaries.
Lodges.
Year
On Obituaries.
Lodges.
1861..
T. J. Prickett
P. A. Armstrong
15
H>4
1865..
1866
D.C.Jones
J W Spalding
130
155
William Lavely
4
356
1862..
Lovi Lusk
9
A E Cutler
211
Thos. J. Wade
40
1867
if
Jonathan Young
77
K. H. Baker
102
1863..
John W. Norris
141
W. E Nelson
312
A. S. Converse
372
309
J. D. Park
246
318
1864..
John W. Spalding
B. S. Prettynmn
155
26
1868..
W. A. Levanway
S. C. Stearns
17
175
E. H. Baker
102
J. C. McMurtry
20
1865..
J. W. Spalding
165
'317
Charles Trowbridge
159
8. B'. Dugger ...'..'.".'.'.
7(5
—42
570
HISTOEY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
COMMITTEES— CONTINUED.
Year
Mileage and Per Diem.
Lodges.
Year
Mileage and Per Diem.
Lodges.
1855..
1S56
E M M Clarke
9
1H
66
27
15
14
96
80
166
188
4
124
254
207
254
211
155
7
140
208
53
175
158
211
260
179
117
189
1861..
1862..
1863..
1864..
1865-.
,1866--
1867-
I
1868-
If
187
78
13
343
71
219
160
244
93
44
284
231
374
1
118
201
76
45
89
111
362
155
141
30
187
294
454
John 8 Winter
W. C. Tiffany
B F. Barry
Geo. W. Lininger
Wellington Loucks
S Y. Perce
Charles Fisher
1857-
1858-
1859..
18GO..
William Little
James B. Hickox
John B. Mclntosh
James P. Brewster
Win. M. Bowdoin
W S Lane
Thos. J. Henderson
A. A. Glenn
E. C. Matheny
F K. Hulburd
R B Smith
Wm. V. Plumb
H. F. Rovce
J W. Gibson
Frederick Ball
William V. Plumb
J W Banker
T. B Cabeen
W. A. J. DeLancey
S B Dugger
W M Beck ."
John K. Bashforth
A N Lodge
M. F Mitchell
H Palmer
J R. Mack
J W. Spalding
W. M. Egan
G. W. Barnard
C Wilson
E W True
C L Smith
C. A. Chace
J. H. Crocker
COMMITTEES— CONTINUID.
Year
General Committee.
Lodges.
Year
General Committee.
Lodg
1859..
I860..
1861..
1 SC^-
lSeS..
1864..
Harrison Dills
W W Jackson
1
18
155
15
1
124
44
155
180
158
74
189
273
322
1
272
1864..
1865..
1866..
1807..
ISfiS..
F. B. Haller
J. M. flolyoke
16
291
152
196
291
81
263
91
201
561
15
272
201
63
553
272
Caleb Finch . ...r
C W Teitsort
T. .7. Prick ett
W H Hanna
J. M. Holyoke
Milo Winchell
A. A. Glejin
Charles Spalding
E J Rice
H W Hubbard
J R Mack
j w Brewer
W R Weld
Willis Y. Francis
T W Hay.
W C Snyder
H. W. Hubbard
E. E. Thomas
C H Brunk
James Lowe
C. 8. Conger
T. W. Hay
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
COMMITTEES— CO.NTIXCED.
571
Year
On Jurisprudence.
Lodges.
Year
On Jurisprudence.
Lodg
1853..
1854..
1855..
1856..
1857..
1858..
1859..
I860..
1861..
1862..
W. C. Hobbs*
43
26
66
43
33
66
43
33
66
43
9
90
9
4
50
4
9
50
160
111
66
43
9
27
1
50
160
I
43
9
1
50
90
1
139
43
1
90
166
124
9
4
90
•j
15
:«
77
111
333
4
3
1862..
1863..
1864..
1865..
ism;..
1-S67..
L868..
Levi Lusk
9
124
77
53
189
39
9
4
90
27
77
29
4
9
140
4
9
56
26
8
140
33
97
211
140
4
S3
91
35
4
» !K)
•Jll
27
155
19
35
4
211
140
19
333
'.13
8
4
36
211
14D
157
333
19
Nelson D. Morsef
H. G. Reynolds
Jonathan Young
VV. C. HobbsJ
A. W. Chabin
James V. Z. BlanejJ
H. G. Reynolds
D. W. Thompson
W. C. Hohbs
Levi Lusk
James V. Z. Blaney
H. G. Reynolds
Ira A. W. Buck
W C Hobb« .. .
James L. Anderson
Ira A. W. Buck
F M Blair
C. A. Roberts
William Lavelyg .
J. B. Samuel;)
William Lavely||
William Lavelyg..
\. W. Blakeslyll
M J. \ovesg
James B. Samuelj
William Mc.Murtryg.
P A Hoyne f
Silas C Toler|i
H G Reynold*
Paul B King?
W. C. Hobbs
Thomas .1. Turner
Wiley M. Egan
James H. Hibbard
Harrison Dills
John M. Pearson
P. A Hoyne
Paul B Ring
A W Blakeslv .
W. c. Hobbs...'.
H. P. H. Bromwell
Harrison Dills
Ira A. W. Buck 1
J B Samuel
W M Ejran
W B \llen
\~a W. Blake*ly
(' H Wells
William C. Hobbs**
H. P. H. Bromwell
William B Allen**
\V M Egan
E F W Ellis**
Perry A. Armstrong
< > H Miner
James H. Mathenv**
IraA.W. Buck...."
Thomas J. Henderson...
Thos J Pickett
H. P. H. Bromwell
\V M Egan
James V. Z. Blaney ....
William A. Hacker
Harman G. Reynolds...
Jos. O. Cunningham
O H Miner
William B. Warren
* Absent 1854, William Lavely (4) appointed for the session. fDeceased. Elias
Uibbard (27) substituted. JAbsent 1855, W. B. Warren (3), and Thomas J. Pick-
ett (15), substituted. gFor the session. < During vacation. rlra A. W. Buck
substituted for session of 1858. **Xot present at session of Istil. .!. V. '/.. Hlaney
(33), J. H. Hibbard (27), and James L. Anderson (9), substituted.
572
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
COMMITTEES— CONTINUED.
Year
To examine Visiting
Brethren.
Lodges.
Year
To examine Visiting
Brethren.
Lodges.
1824
1859.
J. W. Spaldingj^SSfc
Charles Fisher
155
71
140
268
78
91
188
155
71
307
39
218
291
234
71
40
91
237
112
159
279
1826..
1827
to '40
1840-.
1841..
1842..
1843.:
1844..
1845..
1846..
1847..
1848..
1849..
1850..
1851..
1852..
1853..
1854..
1855..
1856..
1857..
1858..
I860..
1861..
1862..
1863
George Mason
Meredith Helm
4
3
3
8
3
3
3
19
3
24
3
8
14
3
32
15
15
3
18
4
31
18
3
76
27
31
4
27
3
26
15
57
71
33
20
15
33
26
I
124
225
50
15
66
71
77
J.T.Douglas
J. C. Baker
John Gregory
Thomas Moore - .
John Gregory
J H Bohn
George A. Patterson ....
Mathew Stacy
J. W. Spalding
Charles Fisher
W. W. Happy
J. H. Smith
George Hackett
John Preble
A. V. Putnam
W. G. Goforth
P. Coffman
H. W.Johnson
Charles Fisher
Thomas J. Wade
Charles H. Pringle
William S. Hurst
W. S. Lane
William Stuart
George Crossley
John C. Heyl
Charles Trowbridge ....
George W \lbin
Samuel H. Davis
A. C. Dickson
1864..
1865..
1866..
1867..
1868..
T J Wade
40
389
311
33
15
40
33
389
161
15
40
97
241
389
411
40
241
161
1
290
77
40
241
71
389
Ifil
77
1
William A. Dickey
Stephen G. Hicks
Carding Jackson
F. G. Greene
Paul B. King
William S Hurst
T. J. Wade
P. B. Ring
T. Souther
W W Bennett
Z. P. Cabanis
j H Hibbard
W S Hurst
T J Wade
S G Dean
M D Chamberlin
Thomas J. Prickett
P A Whittaker
T J Prickett
A M Bennett
Thomas Shirley
T J Wade
T J Prickett
Wellington Loucks
J W Banker
J C McMurtry
Geo. E. Lounsbury
D G Burr
T J Wade
T J Prickett
P. A. Dorwin
D D Irons
Rodney -Vshley
Sylvester Stevens
D G Burr
Daniel G. Burr
J. W. Banker
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS. 573
COMMITTEES— CONTINUED.
Year
Foreign Corresp'nd'nce
Lodges.
Year
Foreign Corresp'ndn'ce
Lodges.
1826..
1827
to '40
1841..
1842..
1843..
1844..
1846..
1*40..
1847..
1848-
1849..
1X50..
I Sol..
Is 52..
1853..
1854..
James O. Wattles
Henry L. Webb
Albion.
Jones-
boro.
Albion.
1*54..
William H. Turner
E. B. Stevens
27
33
Henry J. Mills
1850. .
1857..
'1858..
185U-.
I860..
1861..
1862..
1863..
1864..
18B6..
1866..
1867..
isea.
6U
15
37
86
37
211 '
4
37
211
4
4
15
333
4
160
27
4
40
1
27
199
71
9
66
9
333
422
00
833
271
.4
9
57
333
27
296
28
409
Thomas J. Pickett
H. G. Reynolds
David B Rice
VV. B. Warren
3
16
4
3
9
21
33
29
3
9
4
9
9
15
15
9
15
15
49
46
15
49
46
4
15
25
15
66
4
15
50
110
33
William Hodge
William Lavely
Francis A. McNeil
W. B. Warren
Levi Lusk
David B. Rice
L. P. Cheney
H. G. Reynolds
Charles Montague
William F. Walker
John R Craudall
Thomas J. Pickett
H G Reynolds
Alexander Dunlap
Levi Lusk
William Lavely
E. W. Jones
J H Hibbard
James H. Matheny
Levi Lusk
William Lavely
James L. Anderson
Samuel H. Davis
A. W. Blakeslev
J. H. Hibbard '.
W. \ Conkev .. ..
James L. Anderson
William Mitchell
James L. Anderson
John S. Winter
Thomas J. Picket!
H. G. Reynolds ».
James L. Anderson
John T. Lindsay
Thomas J. Pickett
H. G. Reynolds
H. N. Hibbard
S. A. Hurlbut ...
John T. Lindsay
H. G. Reynolds
William Lavely
Thomas J. Pickett
James H. Matheny
John C Bagbv .
Elias Hibbard
H G Reynolds
A. W. Blakesley
H. G. Reynolds
C W Matheny
Thomas J. Pickett
j B Samuel
J. M. Pearson
John H Bird
COMMITTEES— CONTINUED.
Year
Unfinished Business.
Lodges.
Year Unfinished Business. Lodges.
1846..
1847..
Charles Howard
25
29
3
1
18
1847..
1848-
A. C. Dickson
Joseph C. Ketchum
3
27
33
15
John R. Crandall
A. C. Dickson
O. C. Skinner
Thomas J. Pickett
Carding Jackson
No Committee on Unfinished Business was appointed after the year 1848.
674 HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
COMMITTEES— CONTINUED.
Year
Chartered Lodges.
Lodges.
Year
Chartered Lodges.
Lodges.
1824..
1826..
1827
to '40
1840.
Henry J. Mills
Albion. 1855..
Edward*-
ville.
1856..
Alton.
Vandalia.
Vandalia.
W. W.Jackson
Samuel Hutton
18
3'J
35
33
1
28
15
175
48
-•2
150
25
48
;155
Thomas J. McGuire
Richard J. Hamilton....
George W. Teel
John R. Case
Asa W. Blakesley
J M Peebles
E. R. Rogers
1) i> Irons
Nelson D. El wood
1857..
11868..
ISoli-
I860..
I860..
1861..
1862..
1863..
1864..
B. B. Payne
Joseph B. Holmes
A J Kuvkendall
1841..
1842
1843..
1844..
1845..
1846..
1847..
1848..
1819..
I860..
1851..
1852..
1853..
1854..
1855--
1
4
3
4
1
8
9
1C.
1
18
15
25
4
17
3
15
2G
18
26
3
14
2*i
9
37
4
57
14
9
68
4
4
9
88
43
26
4
20
28
18
46
20
56
30
1
2
9
17
14
155
B. B. Payne
J W Spalding
J. A. Ralston
— Winston*
211
61
175
18
155
140
141
63
57
164
49
71
354
91
268
1.-)
166
211
77
801
33
til
126
40
324
119
15
271
141
lu
108
89
324
170
I
48
89
66
280
76
66
139
268
175
Levi Lu.ik
K A Whipple
j B Conyers
William M Back
E W Jones
'L. P. Cabanis
T J Buford
William S Hurst
\V W Wardell
William Mitchell
William McMurtry
Daniel Wadsworth
Thomas Moore
William MoMurtry
W W Happy
E R Roe
T J Pickett
E F W Ellis
James L. Anderson
R I) Hammond*
W M Egan
D MuLain
X. P. Cabanis
P A Whittaker
A H Ed"on
E A Whipple
James L. Anderson
Thomas Hollow-bush.. ..
J W Keves
T J Wade
J C baker
William Lavely
W B Smith
Liauiel Cameron, Jr
W C Hobbs
John C. Baker
L \V Fletcher
T O Wilson
Clark B Stebbins
B B Payne
Reuben \V. Scanland
John W. Shinn
James G Wright
Sylvester Stevens
D W /ink
William Siddall
Geo H Holliday
Sylvester Stevens
H B Pierce
j B Kyle
James S. Rearden
J. W. Spalding
William Smith
*Was not present.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
COMMITTE ES— CONTINUED.
576
Year
Chartered Lodges.
Lodges.
Year
Chartered Lodges.
Lodges.
1864..
1865..
1800..
1867..
Geo. H. Gibson
211
290
271
38
400
178
71
111
271
600
1867..
1868..
400
372
400
112
38
86
372
131
66
333
A. S. Converse
D. A. Cashman
J C Win«low
Geo. O. Ide
J. C. Winalow
Francis Hudson
G. W. Staley
A. S. Converse
J. E. Y. Hunna*
D M. Eiker
Sharon Tyndale
J. C. Reynolds
COM M ITTEEB— CONTINUED.
Year
On the Library.
Lodges.
Year
On the Librray.
Lodges.
1859-
WilliaTi Lavely
4
1864..
211
C. W. Matheny
4
J. F. Alexander
245
H. G. Reynolds
4
Z. A. Enos
71
I860-
William Lavely..
4
1865..
Z A Enos
71
E lj Gross
333
111
H. G. Reynolds
333
L. T. Hewins
31G
1861..
H. G. Reynolds
333
1866..
W. B. Bateham
141
William Lavely
4
9
E. L. Gross
333
H G Reynolds
333
1862-.
M. J. Noves
66
1867..
9
L W Fletcher ... .
170
91
H. G. Reynolds
333
H G Reynolds
333
1863..
H. G. Reynolds
333
1868..
O H Miner
333
26
44
P. B. Ring
33
L. W. Shepherd
500
COMM ITTEES— CONTINUED.
Year
1869..
I860..
1801..
1862..
1863
On Petitions.
Lodges.
Year
1863..
1864..
1865..
1866..
1867..
1868..
On Petitions.
Lodges.
John T. Cox
250
150
80
36
124
17
133
104
77
211
159
333
7
211
243
46
188
231
Newton Hateman. ......
71
56
271
312
71
148
75
350
348
369
196
332
198
196
67
81
89
362
J. F. Smith
M. J. Noves
D. C. Cregier
J. C. Winters
Robert Barker
A. A. Murray
P. A. Armstrong
J. B. Kyle
Z. A. Enos
John H. Harding
Joseph Armitage
T M Mor^e
James MeCabe
J. K. Sweet
Henry Tanner
N. W. Huutley
W A. Smith
Charles Trowbridge
O H. Miner
W. H. Hanna
C Bve
J. A. Hawley
Ira Goddard
Geo. A Gilbert
W. H. Hanna
S. C. Miller
A N Lodge
H T Royce
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
COMMITTEES— COSTIXUED.
Year
Lodges U. D.
Lodges.
Year
Lodges U. D.
Lodges.
1845..
1846
Nelson D. Morse
James L. Anderson
William Lavely..
26
9
4
3
1
4
29
24
43
35
1
52
146
27
17
50
66
3
68
9
46
29
9
48
89
9
48
128
13
56
116
1858..
1859..
I860..
1861..
1862..
1863..
1864..
1865-.
1866..
1867..
1868..
David E. Head
20
Levi Lu«k
9
20
63
17
77
W W Happv
18i7..
1848..
1849..
1850..
1851..
1852..
1853..
1854..
1855..
1856..
1857..
1858..
E W Smith
Arnold R.Robinson
John R. Crandall
J. B. Kvle
D. McLain
C G Y Taylor
Wiley*
James L. Anderson
Harrison Dills
201
250
113
303
165
66
189
63
20
111
250
268
111
211
1
296
143
159
144
'44
309
304
42
141
143
39
13
1
93
93
40
157
347
333
167
45
209
347
99
176
521
John T. Cox
T B Cabeen
W C Hohbs
A G Mitchell
Harrison Dills
J. A. Church
0 B Stebbins.
D \V Thomson
Elias Hibbard
W S Hail
H W Hubbard
H. G. Reynolds
W S Hurst.
John T. Cox
E P Shaw
S. C Toler
James L. Anderson
Reuben Cleveland
James L. Anderson
B B Payne
Charles Trowbrjdge
W M Eubanks
Levi Lusk
B B Pavne
T B Wakeman
L. M. Riley
Thomas J. Wade
R W Scanland . .
C C. Halladay
W W Stevens
W B Bateham
H S Jacob
48
66
9
27
113
77
136
29
114
9
37
66
Sylvester Stevens
George W. Lininger ...
T. J. Henderson
H. G. Calhonn
Thomas J. Henderson..
William S. Easton
F. M. Blair
John T Cox
J W Glasgow ....
G W Hartman
John C. Anderson
Levi Lusk
D. B. Rice
John M. VanDeren
J. O. Cunningham
J. K. Bashforth
James McCracken
John T Cox
Ira S. Younglove
G W Hartman
William S. Price
133
9
250
111
D A Cook ... .
John T Cox...,
J. H. Samson
*Was not present.
HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
COMMITTEES-CONTINUED.
577
Year On Address of Grand
Master.
Lodges.
Year| On Add^e°f Gmid ! Lodges.
j
1843.. William B. Warren
William Hodge
3
16
4
1857-. William McMuriry ....
R. B. Latham
26
210
3
175
90
4
175
209
37
3
60
189
211
43
56
50
15
43
1
33
27
Francis A. McNeil
1858.. William B. Warren
1844*
1845.. William F. Walker
James L. Anderson
Edgar Bognrdus
33
9
14
15
15
1
39
15
24
9
1
39
Ira A. W. Buck
William Lavely
1859.. Nelson D. Elwood...
1846- William Mitchell
Andrew Mason
Peter Sweat
D. B. Rice
Harrison Dills
Thos. J. Pickett
1847" Abraham Jonas
James H. Matheny
S. .A. Hurlbut
C. G. Y. Taylor
D. W. Thompson
1848-- James L. Anderson
J. N. Ralston
L. P. Cheney
W. C. Hobbs
J. H. Holton
M. J. Noyes
W. W. Happy
.1. B. Samuel
1849-. T. J. Pickett
15
43
49
39
3
4
27
9
15
14
-7
24
14
4
9
33
27
68
70
94
9
43
82
15
4
48
26
4
9
70
15
90
39
15
4
50
150
37
4
4
I860.. Thos J. Pickett
W. C. Hobbs
W. C. Hobbs
Harrison Dills
H. G. Reynolds
J. H. Holton
1861.. James V. Z. Blaney ,
J. II. Hibbard
185ot William B. Warren
Mason Brayman
.1. L. Anderson
1862- William Lnvely
9-
4
56
1
79
296
74
211
9
27
60
260
71
4
27
260
60
124
140
27
35
333
211
24
33
8
63
1
116
33
S
180
500
56
B. C. Snyder
1850+ James L. Anderson
T. J. Pickett
M. J. Noyes
,A. W. Blakesly
1863- H. P. Buxton
E. R. Roe
Eiias Hibbard
Joseph Robbins
C. G. Y. Taylor
W. R. Weld
1851- • E. R. Roe
1864- Wiley M. Egan ,
William Lavely
Levi Lusk
John M. Pear«on
James V. X. Blaney
B. F. Sargeant
1865- S. A. Hurlbut
James M. True
J. A. McClernand
E. B. Ames '.
M. Brayman
C. H. Roberts
1852.. James L. Anderson
W C Hobbs
J. M. Pearson
I860- J. M. True
A. C. Fuller .
P. A. Armstrong . . .
1853.. Thos. J Pic.kett
H. llfiv.v.'ird
James H. Matheny
B B Payne
Elias Hibbard
1867- H. P. H. Bromwell
Harrison Dills
1854§ William Lavelv
O. H. Miner
Levi Lusk
•W. M. Egan
E. B. Ames
1855. Thos J Pickett
J. N~. Ryan
'J. W. Clyde
Ira A. W. Buck
D. P. Bunn
>B. F. Church
1856.. Thos. J. Piekett
A. W. Blakesly
'H. 8 Jacob
J B Samuel
1868- W. G. Swan
Geo W Bright
D B Rice
10 .1 Rice
1857..: William Lavely
James H. Matheny
C. Goodbrake
L W Shepherd
* No address, consequently no committee, f Special session. \ Regular ses
sion. §Grand Master Warren was not present at the session of ?854; the com-
mittee given above was appointed to consider the "Report of the Deputy Grand
Master."
57* HISTORY OF MASONRY IN ILLINOIS.
DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND MASTERS.
Lodges.
Year Districts and Deputies.
Lodges.
|, 1
Year Districts and Deputies.
1867.. 1. Thomas Moore
2. DeWitt C. Jones
3. < '.. S. Conger
91
130
272
140
44
19
7t
260
400
57
102
33
33
138
102
187
57
70
1868.. 7. Wil'iam S. Eaton ...
|8. Rodney Ashley
9. Jos. O. Cunningham
40
389
157
19
400
20
. 1
44
104
27
260
J4. Horace Hayvvard
5. Archibald A. Glenn..
• 6 John Bennett
11. Sylvester Stevens...
12. David E. Head
13. Asa W. Blakesley ...
14. Archibald A. Glenn.
7. Charles Fisher
|8. James M. True
;9. Sylvester Stevens...
!lO. V. M. Blanding
11. K. H. Bak«T
!'-> John W Clyde
16. John M. Pearson
18 George \V Albin ....
1868 1 John \V Clyde
19. John N Ryan
24
201
362
272
fll
89
2. J. H. Babfock
20. Hiram W. Hubbard.
21. Henry Palmer
22. Thomas W. Hay
23. Thomas Moore
3. Edward H. Baker ...
4. James C. Luckey.. ..
|6. Joseph Holland
24. A. N. Lodge
N
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