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GRAND MASTER'S ADDRESS.
R. W. Brethren:—Through the great goodness of our Grand Master above, we are again permitted to assemble in Grand Communication; and amidst our joyous and happy greetings let us render all thanks " to Him who hath governed our hearts undivided"—who hath in his inscrutable and merciful Providence spared and preserved so many of us, while one and another, on our right hand and on our left, have been called from this earthly lodge to that undiscovered country from whose bourn no traveler returns. And while many, with whom we have traveled the rugged paths of life, who have been co-workers with us in rearing and beautifying our beloved temple on earth, are now enjoying that glorious and blessed immortality consequent upon a well spent life, let us rejoice that our blessed institution still shines resplendent upon earth—still continues to aid in preparing, amidst tabernacles of clay, the human family for those spiritual joys which await the well doer in the glorious temple above.
I congratulate you, my brethren, that we meet under so favorable circumstances ; that everywhere, throughout the length and breadth of our noble state, the sound of the gavel is heard, cheering a noble band of faithful craftsmen, ever diligent in the duties of their respective stations, and ever ready to exhibit specimens of their skill, which will command the approbation of the skillful craftsman of every clime, and stand the test of the Grand Overseer's square.
The various Grand Lodges in the different states of our Union and the neighboring Provinces hare most of them kindly forwarded to us their annual proceedings as usual. Some few of these documents for which we always look with much interest, by miscarriage or some other cause, have not come to hand. I regret this, as they always furnish much useful as well as interesting matter. From those received we derive the pleasing intelligence that their various lodges are in a highly prosperous condition. They are growing rapidly, not only in numbers, but in weight of character. Men of virtue and piety are seeking and gaining admission within their portals ; thus furnishing ornaments and supports to the institution, against which the powers of darkness shall not prevail.
I observe that the action in the different Grand Lodges upon the question of forming a General Grand Lodge has been various; some having adopted the constitution as proposed by the Baltimore Convention, and others, while they are in favor of uniting in forming such a General Grand Body, disapprove of the constitution as reported and accepted by the convention. As from this state of things, it is rendered quite uncertain whether the measure proposed will be accomplished the present season, it will be for this Grand Lodge to consider and decide1 upon the expediency of electing a delegate to attend the convention at Baltimore in July next, as proposed by the former convention.
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I perceive that the decision of this and some other Grand Lodges, that a maimed man is not in all cases debarred the rights and benefits of Freemasonry, is freely and rather severely commented on by some Masonic writers. It may be judicious in this Grand Lodge to review their action in the premises and see if there be anything in the practice that will not stand the test of the true Masonic light. Yet with all due deference I can but believe that these writers are losing sight of the more weighty matters of the law as laid down in the great light of Masonry, while they discourse so profoundly upon what are, (as Masonry now exists, a great moral and benevolent Institution,) mere non-essentials, and which would never have had an existence but for the operative character of ancient Masonry. For one I do most devoutly revere the ancient landmarks of the order, yet do I as truly believe in the wisdom of the decision of our illustrious predecessors, who have virtually abrogated from the ancient regulations the provisions that the candidate must be true to the church, and be born of honest or lawful parents. Would one of these zealous brethren, who contend so stoutly for " ancient regulations," reject the application of an honest, accomplished fellow citizen, because his parents indiscreetly brought him into existence before they had plighted their faith at the hymeneal altar ? I trust the response must be no! And if so, then away with the technical objection which would exclude the warmest heart and brighest intellect merely because they belong to one in the human form Divine, who, by some dispensation of Divine Providence, has lost a band or a foot. I would by no means be understood to advocate what some call progressive Masonry; on the contrary I contend for that ancient Masonry which teaches us to shun the " errors of bigotry and superstition " and make a due use of reason " according to that liberty wherewith a Mason is made free," and by which we are also taught to " regard the whole human species as one family—the high and low, the rich and poor, who, as created by one Almighty parent, are to aid, support and protect each other." If " to soothe the unhappy, to sympathize with their misfortunes, to compassionate their miseries and restore peace to their troubled minds, is the grand aim we have in view," how, I ask, can we consistently reject from our communion one whose only demerit is the loss of a limb, not absolutely necessary to his instruction in Masonry, yet rendering him still more an object claiming our kindly sympathies 1 There are many important matters treated of in the documents received, for a more particular account of which I refer you to the report of oar Committee on Foreign Correspondence.
The progress made by our subordinate lodges during the past year will be made to appear by the reports and returns of the several D. D. Grand Masters, which I recommend be published with the proceedings of this communication of the Grand Lodge.
The report of your Committee on the Amended Code of By-Laws will of course receive that attention which its importance demands at your hands;
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and as this subject has long been agitated, it seems particularly desirable that it should be fully disposed of at this time, and a committee appointed to superintend their publication, as all our lodges need copies for their government
I would also take the liberty to suggest that the Grand Lodge take some measure at the present session more effectually to preserve its records and doings, from its formation to the present time. It may be judicious to collate and publish them in one volume, under the direction of a proper committee ; as doubtless all our subordinate lodges and many of our individual brethren would be glad to obtain copies at a fair price, which would nearly or quite cover the expense of publication. As our annual proceedings have not heretofore been carefully preserved, and our books of record are liable to be lost by accident, it will be for you to consider whether some more effectual measures ought not at once to be taken for their preservation.
I have recently granted a dispensation to a competent number of brethren at Waldoboro' to form and open a lodge to be called King Solomon's Lodge ; which dispensation is to be returned to this Grand Lodge for their action thereon at the present session.
And now, my brethren, as I have been twice honored through your friendly suffrages with a seat in this exalted chair, and am about to resign it to some worthy brother whom you shall elect to fill it, I beg of you to accept my warmest thanks for the many tokens of your respect and confidence so repeatedly expressed in your vote electing me to the various stations I have filled in this honorable body. That I could not bring to this chair the dis tinguished ability which has heretofore characterized its illustrious occupants, was known to you all as well as myself; for truly no Grand Lodge has been more highly favored in the character and talents of its Grand Masters than has this from the period of its formation to the election of the present incumbent. But I need not, neither can I, attempt any eulogy upon their virtues; their fair fame is written in the annals of our state and nation, and will live when the rest of us shall have followed those who have gone before to the house appointed for all the living. Having accepted a responsible station in the Grand Lodge at a time when many were weak and weary, and our beloved Institution seemed in danger of annihilation, I have endeavored to exercise my little talent to promote the greatest good of the craft; and if, as is very likely the fact, I have, in my ardent temperament, in the heat of debate or otherwise, overstepped the proper bounds of discretion, and wounded the feelings of any brother, I would humbly ask him to attribute the error to the head and not to the heart, and forgive accordingly. My only regret in leaving the chair is that I have not been able to be more useful during the two years that I have occupied it; and approving most fully as I do, of the tenure of office fixed by our new code of by-laws at two years, I must, with renewed assurances of my regards for past favors, respectfully decline being considered a candidate for any office in the gift of
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the Grand Lodge. Yet so long as I shall remain a member, it will be my pleasure to labor in promoting its best interests; and that each of you, my brethren, may receive that light from above which shall lead you into all truth, and so guide your deliberations and actions during this session, as to promote the interest of the craft in our state, and the cause of truth, justice and humanity generally, is the ardent prayer of your fellow laborer.
ALEX. H. PUTNEY.
The following reports were received from D. D. Grand Masters, and referred to the Committee on Doings of the Grand Officers, viz :
report of D. D. G. master of first district.
Portland, May 4, 1849.
To the M. W. Grand Lodge of Maine:
Having served the past year as D. D. G. Master of the First District, I ask leave respectfully to report:
That in performing the duties of the office, I have granted three dispensations for conferring the degrees under emergencies, viz : one to the Cumberland Lodge, at New Gloucester, and two to the Portland Lodge, at Portland. I have procured the books, charter and jewels of Harmony Lodge, Gorham. This lodge has been inactive for a great number of years; and from the best information I can gain, there was, at the time this lodge ceased work, a very respectable fund belonging to the lodge, but I can discover no signs of any property now remaining, of any description. I have visited officially, twice during the year, the Cumberland Lodge at New Gloucester. At one visit I assisted in work on the three degrees, and am happy to state that this lodge exhibits a deep interest in the cause of Masonry. This lodge has fifteen members, and has, during the last year, initiated six and crafted and raised four.
The Portland and Ancient Land-Mark Lodges, both at Portland, I have visited frequently, and hesitate not to say that their work and lecturing is of a high order. The Portland Lodge returns ninety-three members and twelve initiates. Ancient Land-Mark Lodge, ninety-six members and ten initiates.
The Freeport Lodge, at Freeport, from repeated misfortunes, have not been able to do much by way of work, and have made no returns. The W. Master informs me that they now have a hall and meet regularly for lectures and instruction.
The United Lodge, at Brunswick, I have not had the pleasure of visiting for something over a year; but their well known industry and intelligence is a sure and safe guarantee that the " landmarks " of the order have not
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suffered at their hands. This lodge returns forty-four members and eight initiates.
Very respectfully,
DANIEL WINSLOW,
D. D. G. M. First Masonic District.
report of d. d. g. master of third district.
To the M. W. Grand Lodge of Maine:
The duties of D. D. G. Master of the Third District have not been so arduous, nor has it been necessary to visit the lodges therein so frequently as in former years. There are seven lodges in this district now in active operation, and without any material deviation from the ancient forms, ceremonies, lectures and work, are doing a good share of business, as their returns will show. These are Kennebec, at Hallowell; Maine, at Farmington ; Northern Star, at Anson; Hermon, at Gardiner; Waterville, at Waterville ; Somerset, at Skowhegan, and Bethlehem, at Augusta. Central Lodge, at China, has been endeavoring to resume labor under a dispensation granted them by the M. W. Grand Master, having lost, among the rubbish, its charter, jewels and regalia. There are worthy brethren belonging to this lodge, who are desirous and anxious to have their charter renewed, if it can be done free of expense to them ; and I would respectfully recommend to the Grand Lodge that this favor be extended to them.
I have visited all these lodges once, and some of them twice, during the past year. They appear generally to be improving and prosperous in their work; but there is not that perfect uniformity in the manner of doing work, which it is desirable there should be. It seems necessary that the Grand Lodge should adopt some measures to produce a more perfect uniformity in the work and lectures in the several lodges under this jurisdiction, and cause the same to be observed. The lodges in this district, and especially those in the vicinity of Augusta, have received a new impulse from the resuscitation of Jerusalem Chapter, which is now in successful operation. In my report to the Grand Lodge at their last annual communication, I gave a brief account of the situation of each lodge, which is deemed unnecessary at this time. I will observe, however, that Bethlehem Lodge, at Augusta, held their first meeting January 8th, in their new, spacious and splendid hall, designed and finished by brother William Hunt, expressly for their use, and also for the accommodation of Jerusalem Chapter.
I visited Maine Lodge, at Farmington, October 11th, and installed their officers in due form, in the presence of many ladies, who, at a suggestion in my notice to visit them, were invited into the hall with a few gentlemen. They appeared to be much interested in, witnessing the ceremonies, and left with apparent satisfaction and favorable impression.
Temple Lodge, at Winthrop, Morning Star Lodge, at Litchfield, Lafayette
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Lodge, at Readfield,* Vassalboro' Lodge, at Vassalboro', and Rural Lodge, at Sidney, have lost their charters, records, jewels, &c, and have nothing left them but the name ; and I would suggest the propriety of striking them from the list of lodges in the Third Masonic District.
All of which is respectfully submitted.
LORY BACON,
D. D. G. M. Third District
REPORT OF D. D. G. MASTER OF FOURTH DISTRICT.
To the M. W. Grand Lodge of Maine:
There are six lodges in the Fourth Masonic District that are now in operation ; all of which I have visited during the past year, and am happy to report them in a prosperous condition, doing a good business. They have generally held meetings weekly during the winter, and zeal and good feeling are manifested among the members, who are anxious to promote the good cause; the only contention being who best can work and best agree.
Lincoln Lodge, at Wiscasset, have resumed work within the last year, after lying dormant many years, and are now exerting themselves vigorously in the good cause.
St. George Lodge have formerly held their meetings alternately at Warren and Waldoboro'. But finding this arrangement inconvenient, the brethren of Waldoboro' have petitioned for a new charter for that place, and have recently obtained from the Grand Master a dispensation, but have not yet been able to organize, in consequence of the indisposition of the brother named as their Senior Warden. They are, however, holding meetings, preparing a code of by-laws, and are expecting to receive a charter from the Grand Lodge at the present session.
All of which is respectfully submitted,
JOHN W. LINDLEY,
D. D. G. M. Fourth District
REPORT OF D. D. GRAND MASTER OF SEVENTH DISTRICT.
To the M. W. Grand Lodge of Maine:
The undersigned having been appointed District Deputy of the Seventh District for the past year, asks leave to report:
That he has visited all the working lodges in his district, and found them generally devoted to the cause of Masonry; but it is to be regretted that there are evident marks of rust remaining, which accumulated during the dark ages, and a great want of uniformity in work, which can only be remedied by having a competent lecturer visit and spend several days with each lodge, or at least with their officers. I would recommend that the Grand Lodge take some efficient measures to relieve the fraternity from this evil.
-----
* May 4, 1849. Since the opening of the Grand Lodge this day, I received a communication purporting to he from Masons belonging to Vassalboro' Lodge, requesting a renewal of their charter, which was laid before the proper committee.
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1849.] Grand Lodge, of Maine. 45
I would further report that Piscataquis Lodge, located at Sebec, has not resumed work, and probably will not; an effort is making to unite its members with Mosaic Lodge, at Dover, which, if accomplished, will, it is hoped, give more activity to Mosaic Lodge.
All of which is respectfully submitted,
Bangor, April, 1849. JABEZ TRUE.
R. W. Bro. McArthur, from the committee upon that subject, made a report relative to business necessary to be acted upon at this session.
Read and laid upon the table.
The Grand Lodge then proceeded to the election of Grand Officers for the ensuing year. Bros. Tallman, Sargent and Webber were appointed to receive, sort and count the votes.
| FOR GRAND MASTER. | |
| Two-thirds of the votes being necessary to a choice, several unsuccessful ballots were taken, when upon the final ballot the whole number of votes cast was | 60 |
| Necessary to a choice, | 40 |
| R. W. Joseph C. Stevens, of Bangor, had | 41 |
| And was declared elected. | |
| FOR DEPUTY GRAND MASTER. | |
| The whole number of votes cast was | 57 |
| Necessary to a choice, | 38 |
| R. W. John C. Humphreys, of Brunswick, had | 38 |
| And was declared elected. | |
| FOR SENIOR GRAND WARDEN. | |
| The whole number of votes cast was | 52 |
| Necessary to a choice,...... | 35 |
| R. W. Freeman Bradford, of Portland, had | 48 |
| And was declared elected. | |
| FOR JUNIOR GRAND WARDEN. | |
| The whole number of votes cast was | 40 |
| Necessary to a choice, | 27 |
| R. W. Stephen Webber, of Gardiner, had | 36 |
| And was declared elected. |
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| FOR GRAND TREASURER. | |
| The whole number of votes cast was | 22 |
| Necessary to a choice, (a majority,) | 12 |
| R. W. Henry H. Boody, of Portland, had | 22 |
| And was declared elected. | |
| FOR RECORDING GRAND SECRETARY. | |
| The whole number of votes cast was | 23 |
| Necessary to a choice, | 12 |
| R. W. Charles B. Smith, of Portland, had | 23 |
| And was declared elected. |
R. W. Bros. Freeman Bradford, Abner B. Thompson and Jonathan Smith were then elected by ballot a Committee of Finance for the ensuing year.
The Grand Secretary then reported to the Grand Lodge that two vacancies existed in the Board of Trustees of the Charity Fund.
The Grand Lodge proceeded to fill said vacancies by ballot.
| The whole number of ballots cast was | 18 |
| Necessary to a choice, | 10 |
R. W. Bros. Alexander H. Putney and Samuel S. Wing had each 18 votes, and were declared elected.
A circular from the Louisiana Grand Lodge of Ancient York masons was then laid upon the table by the Grand Secretary. Read and referred to the Committee on Foreign Correspondence.
The M. W. Grand Master then appointed a Committee on the Pay Boll, consisting of Bros. Bacon, Newbegin and Morse.
A communication from Union Lodge, stating the expulsion of a brother, was then laid upon the table by the Grand Secretary. Referred to the Committee on Grievances and Appeals.
The Grand Secretary submitted the following report:
To the M. W. Grand Lodge of Maine:
The Grand Secretary reports, that in accordance with a vote of the Grand Lodge passed at the last annual communication, he procured, in July last, from George G. Smith, Esq., of Boston, Copper-plate Engraver and Printer,
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300 blank diplomas for the use of lodges under this jurisdiction; 100 of which were impressed on parchment at 47 cents each, and 200 on paper at 12-1/2 cents each—amounting to $72.00. That on the first of April, finding the stock nearly exhausted, and presuming that a considerable number would be wanted to furnish the lodges at and prior to this annual communication, he ordered from the same source 600 more; of which 100 were on parchment at 48 cents each, and 400 on paper at 10 cents each ; making for this second lot, a bill of $88.00. These two bills, amounting to $160.00, have been paid by the Grand Treasurer. Of the paper diplomas procured, one-half were impresse on drawing paper, being the best material for such as wish to preserve them in frames; the other half on bank note paper, which is found most convenient for persons traveling, as they can be safely folded and carried in a pocket-book. Of the last lot procured 100 were for Past Masters. It is deemed probable that the supply now on hand may be sufficient to furnish the lodges for the ensuing year.
Respectfully submitted,
C. B. SMITH, Gr. Sec.
Report read and accepted.
A communication from members of Alna Lodge, surrendering their charter until they shall be able to use it with advantage to the craft, was laid upon the table by the Grand Secretary. Read and referred to the Committee on Dispensations and Charters.
A petition was received from Cumberland Lodge, holden at Gloucester, asking permission to hold their meetings a portion of the time at Mechanic Falls in Minot. Read and referred to the Committee on Dispensations and Charters.
The following report was then made by the Committee on Grievances and Appeals:
The Committee on Grievances and Appeals, having considered the communication from Union Lodge in regard to the expulsion of William S. Clark from said lodge, respectfully ask leave to report: That said communication does not present the facts in the case, and that the committee were unable to recommend the approval or disapproval of the Grand Lodge thereof.
Tour committee, therefore, respectfully recommend that said lodge be requested to furnish the Grand Lodge, at its next regular communication, with all the facts in the premises, so that action can be had understandingly thereon. All of which is respectfully submitted,
GEORGE W. CHASE,
JOHN ELLIOT,
SAMUEL It. LEAVITT,
Committee.
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Report read and accepted.
The Committee of Finance then made the following report:
The Committee of Finance have attended to the duty assigned them, and report :
That they have examined the accounts of the Grand Treasurer for the past year and find that there has been received into the Treasury, from all sources, the sum of $1,215.64; and that there has been disbursed, during the same period, the sum of $460.46, for which sufficient and satisfactory vouchers have been exhibited; and that there is now in the hands of the Grand Treasurer, the sum of $756.19.
The committee take great pleasure in expressing their approbation of the manner in which your Grand Treasurer has discharged his responsible duties for the past year.
F. Bradford,
Jona. Smith,
A. B. Thompson,
Committee.
Report read and accepted.
The Grand Lodge was then called off until eight o'clock tomorrow morning.
May 4, 1849.
The Grand Lodge was called to labor at eight o'clock a.m.
R. W. Bro. Bradford, from the committee to whom was referred certain amendments to the Constitution, which amendments were offered at the last annual communication of the Grand Lodge, and had been sent out to the several subordinate lodges, then reported the same with amendments, and the same were read and discussed in part, and laid upon the table.
The Grand Treasurer's annual report was presented, and having been audited and approved by the Committee of Finance, was accepted and ordered to be placed on file.
The following resolution, offered by Bro. Weston, was read and passed:
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Resolved, That this Grand Lodge recommend to the members of the several lodges in this state to visit all contiguous lodges, and others as far as convenient, for the purpose of mutual instruction, and of acquiring as great a degree of uniformity as may be practicable.
The Committee on Returns made the following report:
The Committee on Returns of subordinate lodges respectfully report that they have attended to the duty assigned them, and find that the whole number of lodges that have made returns at this annual communication is thirty-five, viz:
| Portland Lodge. | Ancient Landmark Lodge. |
| United Lodge. | Cumberland Lodge. |
| Oriental Star Lodge. | Blazing Star Lodge. |
| Hermon Lodge. | Kennebec Lodge. |
| Northern Star Lodge. | Bethlehem Lodge. |
| Waterville Lodge. | Maine Lodge. |
| Somerset Lodge. | Eastern Lodge. |
| Warren Lodge. | Unity Lodge. |
| Tranquil Lodge. | Washington Lodge. |
| Phoenix Lodge. | Amity Lodge. |
| Mount Hope Lodge. | Lygonia Lodge. |
| Felicity Lodge. | Lincoln Lodge. |
| Aurora Lodge. | Orient Lodge. |
| St. George Lodge. | Union Lodge. |
| Solar Lodge. | Mosaic Lodge. |
| Rising Virtue Lodge. | Meridian Splendor Lodge. |
| Penobscot Lodge. | St. Croix Lodge. |
| Star in the East Lodge. |
These returns the committee find to be generally correct, except, in a few instances, that dates of the times of conferring degrees are omitted. They, however, find an error, probably from misapprehension, in the return from St. Croix Lodge, for the year ending January, 1847, in reference to the fees accruing to the Grand Lodge. The Constitution provides that each subordinate lodge shall pay to the Grand Lodge the sum of two dollars for each candidate initiated therein, and an annual fee of one-eighth of a dollar for each of its members. The returns from St Croix Lodge not being in conformity with this provision, the committee recommend that it be recommitted to the D. D. Grand Master of that district for correction.
The committee also recommend that the fees accruing to the Grand Lodge from Lincoln Lodge, which has been in. operation only six months since its revival, be remitted to this time.
From the foregoing returns it appears that the number of acting members of the aforesaid lodges is nine hundred and ninety-four; and that the num-
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ber of candidates initiated therein daring the part year is two hundred and twenty-eight.
All which is respectfully submitted,
William Somerby,
Stephen Webber,
Henry H. Boody
Committee
This report was read and accepted, and the recommendations therein contained were severally adopted.
The Committee on the Pay Roll made a report, which was read and accepted, and the Grand Treasurer directed to pay the delegates in accordance with the same.
On motion,
Voted, Now to proceed to the installation of the Grand Officers.
The M. W. Robert P. Dunlap, Past Grand Master, having been invited to perform this ceremony, then took the chair and proceeded to install in ample form the several Grand Officers elect, as follows, viz:
M. W. Joseph C. Stevens, Grand Master, Bangor
R. W. John C. Humphreys, Deputy Grand Master, Brunswick
R. W. Freeman Bradford, Senior Grand Warden, Portland;
R. W. Stephen Webber, Junior Grand Warden, Gardiner;
R. W. Henry H. Boody, Grand Treasurer, Portland;
R.W. Charles B. Smith, Grand Secretary, Portland
The M W. Grand Master then announced the following appointments of Grand Officers for the ensuing year who were also severally installed, by themselves or proxies, viz:
R. W. Allen Haines, Cor. Grand Secretary, Portland
R. W. Daniel Winslow, D.D.G.M. 1st District, Portland
R. W. George W. Chase, D.D.G.M. 2d District, Portland
R. W. Lory Bacon, D.D.G.M. 3d District, Danville
R. W. John W. Lindley, D.D.G.M. 4th District, Union
R. W. Asa A. Pond, D.D.G.M. 5th District, Ellsworth
R. W. William H. Tobey, D.D.G.M. 6th District, East Machias
R. W. Jabez True, D.D.G.M. 7th District, Bangor
R. W. Joshua Herrick, D.D.G.M. 8th District, Kennebunk-Port
R. W. Frye Hall, D.D.G.M. 8th District, Belfast
---
* Since these appointments were made, Bro. Hall has deceased and R.W. Bro Timothy Chase, of Belfast, has been appointed to fill his place.
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W. & Rev. Cyrus Cummings, Grand Chaplain, Portland.
W. & Rev. William A. Drew, Grand Chaplain, Augusta.
W. & Rev. Cyril Pearl, Grand Chaplain, Standish.
W. & Rev. Joseph Hutchinson, Grand Chaplain, Brunswick.
W. & Rev. Nathan C. Fletcher, Grand Chaplain, Belfast.
W. Jonathan Smith, Grand Marshal, Westbrook.
W. Nelson Racklyft, Grand Senior Deacon, Portland.
W. Edward S. Moulton, Grand Junior Deacon, Saco.
W. John Purinton, Grand Steward, Portland.
W. Selah G. Dennis, Grand Steward, East Thomaston.
W. William Somerby, Grand Steward, Ellsworth.
W. George Small, Grand Steward, Westbrook.
W. Asa Bailey, Grand Sword Bearer, Portland.
W. Samuel B. Brown, Grand Pursuivant, Bangor.
W. Ebenezer G. Eaton, Grand Pursuivant, Saco.
Bro. John Dain, Grand Tyler, Portland.
On motion,
Voted, That the consideration of the amendments proposed to the Constitution of the Grand Lodge, be assigned for two o'clock this afternoon.
The Grand Lodge was then called off until 2 o'clock p. m.
May 4, 2 o'clock p. m.
The Grand Lodge was called to labor.
Bro. Hobbs submitted a motion that the fees accruing to the Grand Lodge, from Mount Hope Lodge, for initiations during the past year be remitted. Motion laid on the table.
The Grand Lodge then resumed the consideration of the amendments of the by-laws, which had been submitted to the lodges, and reported upon by the committee to whom they had been referred. And the said amendments were severally considered and adopted, article by article, with further slight amendments by the Grand Lodge; when, on motion, it was
Voted, That the several articles reported by the committee, and as amended by the Grand Lodge, be adopted as constituent portions of the Constitution and By-Laws of this Grand Lodge.
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On motion of M. W. Bro. Putney,
Voted, That five hundred copies of the Constitution and By-Laws of the Grand Lodge, as revised and amended, be published, under the direction of the committee who reported the same.
On motion of M. W. Bro. Putney,
Resolved, That the standing order passed by this Grand Lodge on the 23d day of June, 1845, by which the dues of dormant lodges under this jurisdiction were to be remitted for one year after resuming work, be, and the same is hereby rescinded. This resolution to take effect from and after the first day of September next.
Bro. Bradford, from the Committee on Dispensations and Charters, then made the following report:
To the M. W. Grand Lodge of Maine:
The Committee on Dispensations and Charters, having had under consideration the various matters referred to them, ask leave to report :
That in January, 1848, the requisite number of masons at Richmond, in the fourth masonic district, presented a petition to the M. W. Grand Master for authority to open and hold a lodge in the town of Richmond, by the name and style of Richmond Lodge. This petition was approbated by the D. D. Grand Master of the fourth district, and the petitioners were recommended by Solar Lodge at Bath. The usual fee did not accompany the peti-tion, and the Grand Master having some doubt whether the petitioners should not be recommended by Hermon Lodge at Gardiner, as being in fact somewhat nearer than Solar Lodge, caused the petitioners to be notified of his doubts in this respect, and also of the requisite fees as prescribed by the by-laws of this Grand Lodge at that time. There the matter appears to have rested; and the same petition is now presented to this Grand Lodge.
Your committee are of opinion that the recommendation of Solar Lodge is sufficient in this case, and they are informed by the representatives of Hermon Lodge, that no objection is made on the part of that lodge, to the establishment of a new lodge at Richmond. The committee, therefore, recommend the adoption of the following resolution :
Resolved, That a dispensation in the usual form be granted to the petitioners, on their paying the usual established fee, authorizing them to open and hold a lodge at Richmond, Maine, by the name and style of Richmond Lodge.
The committee further report, that they have examined the petition of certain brethren in Waldoboro', praying for a charter of constitution for a new lodge, to be named King Solomon's Lodge. The petition is signed by fifteen brethren, who are recommended by W. Master and Wardens of St. George Lodge, Warren, and the W. Master and Wardens of Union Lodge,
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at Union, and approbated by the R. W. D. D. Grand Master. Though the recommendation is not in the form prescribed by the regulations of the Grand Lodge, still, the committee are satisfied that the act of the Master and Warden of the two nearest lodges was done by the consent and authority of their respective lodges. On this petition, the M. W. Grand Master issued bis dispensation on the 4th of April last, and the same is now returned to this Grand Lodge, but not accompanied with any proceedings or by-laws. The reason for this omission, is, that said lodge, (owing to the short length of time since the dispensation was issued,) have not had time to complete their organization. The committee are satisfied that the Masonic skill and ability of the petitioners are a sure guarantee of their conforming to the usages and customs of the craft; and being assured that the petitioners will forward to the Grand Secretary an attested transcript of their proceedings, and of their by-laws, they recommend the adoption of the following resolution :
Resolved, That upon the reception of an attested copy of the proceedings and of the by-laws of said petitioners, a charter be issued to them agreeably to the regulations of the Grand Lodge, authorizing them to form and hold a lodge at Waldoboro', by the name and style of King Solomon's Lodge.
The committee further report, that they have examined the petition of certain members of Central Lodge, No. 45, at China, praying for a dispensation to resume their Masonic labors, and for a new charter, instead of one lost or destroyed. A dispensation has been granted agreeably to the prayer of the petitioners, and is now returned, under which they have re-organized and commenced work. Your committee, therefore, recommend that a new charter be granted to Central Lodge, agreeably to the provisions of the constitution and regulations of the Grand Lodge.
The committee further report, That they have had under consideration, a communication from certain members of Village Lodge at Bowdoinham, setting forth that said lodge is about to reorganize, and requesting to be informed whether it is the pleasure of the Grand Lodge to continue to it its rights and privileges as a regularly constituted lodge. This Grand Lodge hails with pleasure and satisfaction, every effort that is made by dormant lodges to commence their Masonic labors; and its policy has been to continue to them all their rights and privileges. It relies on the judgment of the individual members of decayed lodges, whether they can sustain themselves as a regular lodge after re-organization. The valuable privileges that our venerable institution confers upon all worthy Masons are strong incentives to persevering efforts on their part, not only to secure and preserve those privileges to the initiated, but also to keep up the organization of their respective lodges, in which the principles of our order may be cultivated and diffused.
Your committee would therefore recommend to Village Lodge, and to all others similarly situated, to resume their Masonic labors, provided, they can sustain themselves as a lodge.
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The committee further report: That they have had under consideration, the application of Cumberland Lodge, situated in New Gloucester, asking for a dispensation to hold its meetings a portion of the time at Mechanic Falls in Minot. This application is approbated by the representative of Tranquil Lodge, now located in Danville, and the committee being of opinion that it will be for the interest of Masonry that the request of Cumberland Lodge be granted, recommend the adoption of the following resolution:
Resolved, That Cumberland Lodge be permitted to hold its meetings a portion of the time of the ensuing year at Mechanic Falls, in Minot, and that a dispensation be issued to said lodge, by the Grand Master for that purpose.
The committee further report: That they have had under consideration the subject matter of a communication from certain brethren of Vassalboro' Lodge in Vassalboro', setting forth that their charter, records and furniture are lost; and asking for a new charter. The petition is not approbated by the D. D. G. Master, for the reason that he has had no opportunity to learn the situation and condition of said lodge. The committee, however, recommend that a dispensation be granted to said brethren whenever they shall have complied with the requirements of the Constitution of this Grand Lodge.
The committee further report: That they have had before them the application of the W. Master and J. Warden of Oriental Star Lodge, at Livermore, requesting in behalf of said lodge, permission and authority to change and alter the seal thereof. The committee find that said lodge has an act of incorporation, and presuming that said act grants to said lodge the power to use a seal and to alter the same at pleasure, they recommend that this Grand Lodge leave the matter with the members of Oriental Star Lodge to do in the premises what to them shall be deemed proper.
The committee further report: That they have had before them, a communication from brothers John D. McCrate and others, members of Alna Lodge, in which they signify their desire to surrender their charter, reserving to themselves the privilege of having the same restored whenever they find that they can use the same for the benefit of Masonry.
The charter has been surrendered, and the same is now in the hands of the Grand Secretary.
This surrender is made agreeably to the provisions of the third article of the Constitution of this Grand Lodge, and your committee regard it as a precedent worthy the imitation of all lodges under our jurisdiction similarly situated. They recommend this Grand Lodge to accept the same and hold it in trust for Alna Lodge.
All which is respectfully submitted,
FREEMAN BRAFORD, Per Order.
The foregoing report having been read and considered, it was
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Voted, The same he accepted, and that the several recommendations of the committee therein contained be adopted.
A circular was then received from a committee of Portland and Ancient Land-Mark Lodges, inviting this Grand Lodge to be present and unite with said lodges in a public celebration of the anniversary of St. John the Baptist, in Portland, on the 26th of June next.
Whereupon, on motion,
Voted, That the Grand Lodge do accept the invitation aforesaid and attend accordingly.
On motion,
Voted, That this Grand Lodge be represented by a delegate in the convention proposed to be holden in Baltimore, on the second Tuesday in July next, to form and organize a Supreme Grand Lodge of the United States; Provided, said convention shall be convened in accordance with the terms and conditions submitted by a convention of delegates assembled at said Baltimore, on the 23d of September, a. d. 1847.
Voted, That the first four Grand Officers of this Grand Lodge be authorized and requested to appoint a delegate from this Grand Lodge to said convention ; Provided, they shall ascertain that the same is to be holden as proposed.
On motion,
Voted, That the Committee on Foreign Correspondence be desired to make a report at the special session of the Grand Lodge to be holden at this place, on the evening of the 25th of June next.
The Grand Lodge was then called off until seven o'clock p.m.
May 4, 7 o'clock p. m. The Grand Lodge was again called to labor. On motion of R. W. Bro. Webber,
Voted, That the Grand Secretary's bill for postages, stationery, etc., amounting to $18.29, be allowed and paid; and that the sum of forty dollars be also allowed and paid him for his services as Grand Secretary the past year.
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R. W. Bro. Haines then submitted the following resolutions, which were read and passed.
Resolved, That it is expedient to collect and publish, in a single volume, the proceedings of this Grand Lodge from its institution to the present time.
Resolved, That the foregoing resolution be transmitted to each subordinate lodge in this jurisdiction, with a request that they will severally communicate their opinion upon the same at our next annual communication, together with a statement of the probable number of copies that will be taken by the members of their respective lodges.
On motion,
Voted, That the fees paid by Waterville Lodge into the Grand Treasury, for the initiation of two clergymen, be refunded to said lodge.
On motion of M. W. Bro. Putney,
Voted, That the sum of twenty dollars be allowed and paid to the Grand Treasurer for his services the past year.
R. W. Bro. Boody, Grand Treasurer, then tendered the aforesaid sum of twenty dollars to the Grand Lodge, to be added to the Charity Fund.
Whereupon M. W. Bro. Putney offered the following resolution, which was unanimously adopted:
Resolved, That the thanks of this Grand Lodge be tendered to E. W. Bro. Henry H. Boody, Grand Treasurer, for his liberal donation to the Charity Fund; and also for his faithful services and successful efforts in managing the funds of the Grand Lodge committed to his charge as Grand Treasurer.
The following resolution was then submitted by E. W. Bro. Bradford, and passed unanimously:
Resolved, That the sincere thanks of the M. W. Grand Lodge of Maine be tendered to our M. W. Bro. Alexander H. Putney, P. G. M., for the able and faithful manner in which he has presided over the deliberations of this Grand Lodge for the past two years; and that he carries with him the best wishes of the members for his health, usefulness and happiness.
Voted, That the Grand Secretary be requested to publish, in the usual form, a suitable number of copies of the proceedings of the Grand Lodge, with the Grand Master's address, reports of D. D. Grand Masters, &c. &c.
The Grand Lodge was then closed in ample form.
Attest, C. B. SMITH, Grand Secretary.
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