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REPORT OF D. D. G. MASTER OF THIRD DISTRICT.
To the M. W. Grand Lodge of Maine:
The District Deputy Grand Master of the Third Masonic District asks leave to present the following report:
Since the last annual communication of the Grand Lodge, two dormant lodges have been added to the return, viz; Central, at China, by charter renewed, and Lafayette, at Readfield, by dispensation from the M. W. Grand Master. Central Lodge received a dispensation the year before to recommence labor, but circumstances prevented their availing themselves of its benefits until their charter was renewed in May last. They did not, however, fully organize until the 27th of August, when I visited them, presided at the choice of officers, installed them and initiated two candidates. This lodge has procured the supposed lost jewels of the dormant Vassalboro' Lodge, several of whose former members have joined themselves to this and become efficient officers and members of the lodge. They have a fair prospect before them, as their return exhibits.
Lafayette Lodge received, August 29th, a dispensation from the M. W. Grand Master, through me, to recommence labor, of which they forthwith availed themselves and commenced work in earnest. I visited this lodge in November and initiated three candidates. This was one of those supposed defunct lodges, which I suggested, in my last report, be stricken from the list in the Third District. It is, in fact, like one risen from the dead. Its resuscitation is a source of peculiar satisfaction to me, as I was its first Master when Masonry was at its meridian height. I most cheerfully recommend a renewal of its charter.
There are now in this district nine lodges, in active operation, viz: Bethlehem at Augusta, Hermon at Gardiner, Waterville at Waterville, Northern Star at Anson, Kennebec at Hallowell, Maine at Farmington, Somerset at Skowhegan, Central at China, and Lafayette at Readfield,—most of which are in a flourishing condition, as their returns will show. Suspensions and expulsions have been rare. Several have gone to " that undiscovered country from whose bourn no traveler returns."
There is still a want of uniformity in their mode of work, which seems necessary to be produced by efficient measures of the Grand Lodge.
In November I installed the officers of Bethlehem Lodge, in presence of a large number of brethren with their wives, sisters and daughters, and of Jerusalem Chapter. After which the brethren, sisters and companions repaired to the Stanley House and partook of an excellent supper. Harmony prevailed—pleasure and satisfaction beamed in every countenance. Public, or semi-public installations, properly arranged and conducted, do much good by curing prejudice and promoting charity and brotherly love. It is with pleasure and satisfaction that I can report the lodges in the third district flourishing and onward. There is observed, however, in many instances
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among the craftsmen, especially the younger portion, a want of that " silence and circumspection " so necessary to the honor of the institution. Would it not have a desirable effect for the Grand Lodge, by a special committee or otherwise, to address a circular to the several subordinate lodges on the all-important subject of vigilance and strict attention to those cardinal virtues, temperance and prudence ?
I have appended to this report some statistics of the several lodges in this district, showing the time of recommencing labor, the amount of work done, suspensions, expulsion, deaths, etc.
All which is respectfully submitted.
LORY BACON, D. D. G. M. Third District
Report read and accepted.
R. W. Bro. Lindley submitted his annual report, as follows :
REPORT OF D. D. GRAND MASTER OF FOURTH DISTRICT.
To the M. W. Grand Lodge of Maine:
Having been appointed by the M. W. Grand Master to take charge of the subordinate lodges composing the fourth masonic district under the jurisdiction of this Grand Lodge, I beg leave to make the following report ;
There are now eight lodges composing the fourth district, all of which I have visited, some of them twice, during the past Masonic year, and find them in successful operation. Some of the lodges have not returned quite so many initiations as last year, but great attention has been paid to inform themselves in the work and lectures. Most of the lodges have held their meetings weekly during the winter season, and I am happy to say that all appear to be anxious to observe the ancient landmarks of the Order, and be governed by our standard work. The whole number of members returned from this district is two hundred and fifty; the annual fee amounting to $31.11. The returns show the number of initiates to be fifty-three ; fees for initiates, at two dollars each, is $106—making the sum of $137.11, paid into the Grand Treasury from said district. Two new lodges have come into operation since the last annual communication of the Grand Lodge.
A charter was granted at the last annual communication, to the brethren at Waldoboro', by the name of King Solomon's Lodge. This lodge was constituted, consecrated, dedicated, and the officers duly installed, on the 22d of February last. The lodge appears very prosperous and are doing a good business. They return ten initiates and twenty-eight members. At the last annual communication of the Grand Lodge, a dispensation was granted to a number of brethren at Richmond, empowering them to meet as a lodge. They have organized under their dispensation, and held their meetings weekly most of the time. The zeal and energy manifested by these brethren since they commenced work, are worthy of great praise, and afford indica-
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tions that their lodge, at no distant day, may be ranked among the most flourishing in the State. They return twelve initiates and sixteen members. They are now asking for a charter, to which I consider them justly entitled.
A petition from a number of brethren of Bowdoinham was presented to the Grand Lodge last year, asking permission to resume their meetings under their old charter, which had slept many years; and their petition was heartily responded to by the Grand Lodge. Brother Curtis soon after wrote to me making some inquiries, and stating that they were ready to resume their labors, and that a number of their young men were anxious to obtain the degrees. From the encouragement offered them, two or three members started with commendable zeal, and prepared a hall for their meetings; but to their disappointment, could not get members enough together to open a Fellow Craft Lodge.
They have now surrendered their charter, which is herewith presented, asking the privilege of having it restored to them again whenever they find themselves in a situation to sustain it with credit to themselves and honor to the fraternity. I would recommend that said charter be received by the Grand Lodge in trust, to be again restored to Village Lodge, at Bowdoinham, when it shall satisfactorily appear that they are in a situation to sustain said lodge with credit to the institution.
All which is respectfully submitted,
JOHN W. LINDLEY, D. D. G. M. Fourth District
Report read and accepted. On motion,
Voted, That the subject of the use of the jewels of Village Lodge by Rich-mond Lodge, be referred to the Committee on Dispensations and Charters.
R. W. Bro. Chase then presented his report, as follows:
REPORT OF THE D. D. G. MASTER FIFTH DISTRICT.
To the M. W. Grand Lodge of Maine:
The undersigned would respectfully beg leave to report: That from unforeseen and unexpected circumstances, he has not been enabled to visit the several lodges in the second masonic district during the month of April, in detail, as he bad arranged to do; but has held communication with the several lodges, and so far as he has received answers, is able to state that the lodges in operation are generally in a flourishing condition. Pythagorean Lodge, No. 11, at Fryeburg; Oxford Lodge, No. 18, at Paris; and Mount Moriah Lodge, No. 66, at Denmark, have not, so far as I can learn, resumed work, or evinced any strong desire to do so. I have written to some who were formerly active members, as I have been informed, but as yet have received no encouraging reply. Oriental Lodge, I am unofficially informed,
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remains stationary, and has unfortunately been deprived by death of one of its most active members, R. W. Bro. George W. Cushman, their late Master. Oriental Star Lodge, No. 21, at Livermore, has not increased in numbers, but in all other respects exhibits prosperity and progress in the science and principles of our fraternity.
Tranquil Lodge, No. 19, at Danville, I have repeatedly visited, and am happy to say it is rapidly increasing in numbers, and improving in work. Twelve candidates have been initiated during the past year, and the lodge now numbers fifty members, with flattering prospects of future success.
Blazing Star Lodge, No. 30, at Rumford, has made a report, which shows the initiation of six candidates, and the lodge is in good working condition, with a bright prospect before it.
King Hiram Lodge, No. 57, at Dixfield, has not the facilities and advantages of the other lodges, as I am kindly informed by my predecessor, R. W. Past D. D. G. Master Hutchins, who has granted his assistance at my request, and has not yet been able to supply itself with all the necessary regalia ; but the brethren of that lodge are exerting themselves to overcome all obstacles, and undoubtedly will win to themselves and their lodge, deserved success. And I would respectfully recommend that their dues to the Grand Lodge for the past masonic year be remitted.
I have distributed to the several lodges the several documents put into my hands by the Grand Secretary for that purpose.
I have once publicly, and in consequence of the suggestion of the officers elect, for the purpose of changing the time of the annual election, once privately installed the officers of Tranquil Lodge ; and have, on application of said lodge, granted three dispensations for conferring degrees.
I have at all times found the brethren of other lodges disposed to aid me as far as in their power, in procuring information and in performing my duties.
All which is respectfully submitted,
GEORGE W. CHASE, D. D. G. M. Second District
Report read and accepted.
The hour designated by the Constitution for the election of Grand Officers having now arrived, the Grand Lodge went into committee of the whole for that purpose—M. W. Abner B. Thompson in the chair.
Having attended to the duty assigned them, the committee rose and reported to the Grand Lodge the election of the following Grand Officers for the ensuing year, viz:
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| 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. Timothy Chase, | Junior Grand Warden, | Belfast; |
| R.W. Henry H. Boody, | Grand Treasurer, | Portland; |
| R.W. Charles B. Smith, | Recording Grand Secretary, | Portland. |
Committee of Finance. R. W. Bros. Freeman Bradford, Abner B. Thompson, Jonathan Smith.
Which report was read and accepted.
The Grand Secretary then reported that four vacancies existed in the Board of Trustees of the Charity Fund; and the Grand Lodge proceeded forthwith to fill said vacancies by a new election.
The ballots having been cast, returned and counted, the Grand Master announced that R. W. Bros. Joseph Covell, Eusebius Weston, William 0. Poor and Foster Wood were duly elected Trustees of said Board for three years, agreeably to the provisions of the Constitution.
| The Grand Treasurer then submitted his annual report of receipts and disbursements for the past year, as examined and approved by the Committee of Finance, by which it appears that there was in his hands at the last annual settlement a balance of | $ 755.19 | |
| Since which time he has received from dues of subordinate lodges from dividends and interest on funded stock and notes, and for dispensations and Charters granted, the sum of |
1056.07 |
|
| Making in the whole the sum of | $1811.26 | |
| That he has paid out for six shares in Casco bank stock | $600.00 | |
| For two notes, being temporary loans, | 550.00 | |
| For the current expenses of the Grand Lodge including Charity, the pay roll of delegates, blank diplomas, printing and other usual expenses, the sum of | 618.12 | |
| Leaving a balance in his hands of | 43.14 | |
| $1811.26 |
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| The Grand Treasurer further reports, that the funds of the Grand Lodge consist of 20 shares Canal Bank stock, valued at. | 1500.00 |
| 16 shares Casco Bank stock, valued at | 1600.00 |
| 5 shares Freemans' Bank stock, valued at | 500.00 |
| 2 notes, being temporary loans valued at | 550.00 |
| Total | $4150.00 |
Report read and accepted.
A petition was then received from the members of Richmond Lodge, U. D., asking for a charter of constitution.
Referred to the Committee on Dispensations and Charters.
The Grand Master then announced the appointment of the following brethren as a Committee on the Pay Roll of Delegates at this communication, viz: R. W. Bros. Covell, Washburn and Purinton.
A petition from Lafayette Lodge, asking for a renewal of their charter, was then presented, and referred to the Committee on Dispensations and Charters.
A petition was also received from seven brethen residing in the town of Phillips, asking for a dispensation to open and hold a new lodge in that town. Referred to the Committee on Dispensations and Charters.
The Grand Lodge was then called off until to-morrow morning at eight o'clock.
Attest, C. B. SMITH, Grand Secretary.
- - - - - - - - -
Masons' Hall, May 3, 1850.
The Grand Lodge was called to labor at eight o'clock. R. W. Bro. Winslow submitted his annual report, as follows:
Having served this Grand Lodge the past masonic year as D. D. Grand Master of the first district, I ask leave respectfully to report: That the principal duties which 1 have been called upon to perform con-
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sist in granting dispensations for initiations under special emergencies, and principally to the two lodges in this city.
I have visited the Cumberland Lodge, at New Gloucester, once during the past year, but as no return has been made from said lodge I am unable to state the amount of work done. I am, however, informed by the Master that its future prospects appear favorable, and that the neglect in making their return resulted from the interruption of their last meeting by a violent storm; and he assures me that the return shall be made forthwith, and the dues paid.
The Harmony Lodge, at Gorham, has been reorganized by the election and installation of officers. It has met during the past winter every week, and shows by its returns that its labor has not been in vain.
The United Lodge, at Brunswick, shows by its return a very small amount of work. This, however, will not I presume be attributed to any remissness of its energies or duties, as its efficiency is well known and appreciated by this Grand Lodge.
The returns of the Portland and Ancient Land-Mark Lodges in this city preclude the necessity of further remark on my part.
The Freeport Lodge, at Freeport, have made no return. Good and sufficient reasons for not complying with the regulations of the Grand Lodge on this subject, I presume, will be presented by Bro. Kendall, its representative to this Grand Lodge.
The returns of the following lodges exhibit, in some degree, their condition, with the amount paid by them into the Grand Treasury:
| Portland Lodge, | 83 members, | 27 initiates, dues paid, | $64.38 |
| Ancient Land-Mark Lodge, | 104 members, | 29 initiates, dues paid, | 71.00 |
| Harmony Lodge, | 29 members, | 12 initiates, dues paid, | 27.62 |
| United Lodge, | 42 members, | 2 initiates, dues paid, | 925 |
| $172.25 |
Respectfully submitted,
DANIEL WINSLOW, D. D. G. Master.
Report read and accepted.
A petition was received from Harmony Lodge, asking for the remission of their dues for the past year; but after due consideration, the Grand Lodge decided by vote not to grant the prayer thereof.
The Committee on Dispensations and Charters reported:
That they had examined the by-laws of Richmond Lodge, and their journal of proceedings while acting under a dispensation, and find them con-
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formable to the usages of Masonry and to the Constitution of this Grand Lodge; and recommend that their prayer for a charter be granted.
They also recommend that Richmond Lodge have permission to use the jewels of Village Lodge for the year ensuing.
Per order, MOSES SPRINGER, Chairman.
Report read and accepted; and thereupon, Voted, That a charter of constitution be issued to Richmond Lodge. The same committee also reported :
That they had taken into consideration the petition of the brethren of Lafayette Lodge, in Readfield, and recommend that a new charter be granted them, with permission to hold the sessions of said lodge alternately one year in Readfield and one year in Wayne, agreeably to their request.
Per order, MOSES SPRINGER, Chairman.
Report read and accepted; and thereupon, Voted, That a new charter be issued to said lodge accordingly. The same committee also reported:
That they had taken into consideration the petition of the brethren in Phillips and find that they have the requisite number and qualifications for this purpose, and they have obtained the approbation of the nearest lodge and also that of the D. D. G. Master. They therefore recommend that their request be granted.
Per order, MOSES SPRINGER, Chairman.
Report read and accepted, and dispensation ordered accordingly.
The same committee also reported:
That they had examined the by-laws of King Solomon's Lodge at Waldoboro', and find them conformable to the usages and customs of Masonry and to the Constitution of this Grand Lodge, and recommend that the same be approved.
Per order, MOSES SPRINGER, Chairman.
Report read and accepted.
R. W. Bro. Tallman submitted a proposition to amend the first section of the third article of the Constitution, so that the Grand Lodge at every annual communication thereof shall fix
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the place of its next yearly meeting, to be so fixed immediately after the annual choice of Grand Officers, and the question shall be taken by yeas and nays, and a return thereof made.
Read and laid upon the table.
R. W. Bro. Chase then submitted the following report:
The Committee on Grievances and Appeals, to whom were referred copies of the proceedings of Union Lodge, No. 31, on certain charges preferred against William S. Clark, would respectfully report:
That they have had the same under consideration, and would recommend the adoption of the following resolution :
Resolved, That the sentence of expulsion of William S. Clark from Union Lodge, No. 31, be, and the same is hereby approved and confirmed. All which is respectfully submitted,
George W. Chase,
Samuel B. Dodge,
William Merriam,
Committee.
Which report was read and accepted, and the resolution unanimously adopted.
The same committee, to whom was referred a communication from the Grand Lodge of Ireland, relative to a difficulty existing between Eastern Lodge, at Eastport, and Hibernia Lodge, at St. Andrews, N. B., reported that they had not been able, from the limited time allowed them, properly to investigate the matters referred to them and to report thereon, and asked for further time and permission to make their report in the recess to the first four Grand Officers for their approval.
Report accepted and the request of the committee granted.
R. W. Bro. George W. Chase offered the following resolution :
Resolved, That a committee of three be raised by this Grand Lodge, whose duty it shall be to exemplify in this body (at its next communication), the work and lectures sanctioned by the Ancient York Rite, and if approved, that said committee instruct the several District Deputy Grand Masters in the same, to the end that uniformity be established throughout our jurisdiction.
Which resolution was read and, after due deliberation, adopted unanimously.
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On motion,
Voted, That a committee of nine be raised by nomination from the chair, to report to the Grand Lodge the names of three suitable brethren to be placed upon the Committee on Work and Lectures, as contemplated by the foregoing resolution.
The following brethren were then announced from the chair to compose the nominating committee, viz: E. W. Bros. Winslow of Portland, Chase of Danville, Williams of Bangor, Foote of Wiscasset, Somerby of Ellsworth, Douglass of Dover, Small of Westbrook, Washburn of Belfast, and Talbot of Lubec.
This committee, after consultation, reported for the Committee on Work and Lectures the names of Joseph C. Stevens of Bangor, Charles B. Smith of Portland, and John W. Lindley of Union.
Which report was accepted, and the said brethren were accordingly elected to perform the duties assigned them under the resolution.
The Committee on the Pay Roll then made a report, which was accepted, and the Grand Treasurer requested to pay the delegates in accordance therewith.
The Committee on the Doings of the Grand Officers reported:
That they had attended to the duties assigned them, and would recommend to the consideration of the Grand Lodge the communication of the M. W. Grand Master, Joseph C. Stevens, and more especially that part of it having reference to the admission of visiting brethren to subordinate lodges. Respectfully submitted,
John O'Brien,
Thos. B. Johnston,
Committee.
Report read and accepted.
The following report was then submitted :
The Grand Secretary respectfully reports: That, pursuant to a resolution adopted by the Grand Lodge at their last annual communication, he has, as far as practicable, collected the printed reports of sister Grand Lodges, received since the organization of this Grand Lodge, and caused them to be bound in volumes of suitable size for reference; making in the whole, including two volumes of printed circulars, and the proceedings of our own Grand
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Lodge, twenty-six books. The work has been done in a strong and substantial manner, but from the great diversity in the forms and size of the pamphlets, it was found impracticable in patting them together, to preserve that degree of neatness and external beauty which was desirable, without doing too great violence to the chronological order of the reports. It is believed, however, that the object of the resolution has been attained in the work as here presented.
These volumes contain a vast amount of useful and highly interesting matter, and may well serve as a nucleus for the formation of a more ex-extended and general masonic library of the Grand Lodge. This may be regarded as a subject peculiarly entitled to the favorable consideration of the Grand Lodge, as by a small annual appropriation, we may, in a few years, be in possession of many rare and valuable works upon the history and progress of our order, which would be found of vast importance to those of our brethren who seek to become skillful and scientific masons.
It is hoped, therefore, that the Grand Lodge will, at once, take some action upon this subject, and by a well directed effort, seek to lay the foundation of a Grand Lodge Library, which shall be not only honorable and useful to themselves, but of incalculable value to the craft during a long succession of future ages.
Respectfully submitted,
C. B. SMITH, Grand Secretary.
Report read and accepted.
The following report was then submitted:
The Committee on Returns of subordinate lodges have attended to the duty assigned them, and report:
That the whole number of lodges, from which returns have been received at the present communication of the Grand Lodge, is forty, viz:
| Portland, | Washington, | Union, |
| Ancient Land-Mark, | Rising Virtue, | Lincoln, |
| United, | Star in the East, | Richmond, |
| Oriental Star, | Mosaic, | Lygonia, |
| Kennebec, | Amity, | Warren, |
| Central, | Mount Hope, | King David's, |
| Northern Star, | Harmony, | Penobscot, |
| Hermon, | Waterville, | Meridian Splendor, |
| St. George, | Bethlehem, | Saco, |
| Aurora, | Somerset, | Phoenix, |
| King Solomon's, | Lafayette, | Unity, |
| Solar | Blazing Star, | Maine, |
| Felicity, | Orient, | Tranquil, |
| Eastern, |
and that there are eighteen lodges from which there are no returns.
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Your committee find the returns generally correct, but that in one or two instances the dates of initiations and of conferring degrees have been omitted.
From the returns of the foregoing lodges, it appears that the number of members connected with the same is one thousand four hundred and two; and that the number of candidates initiated therein during the past year, is three hundred and twenty-two.
Respectfully submitted,
William Somerby,
John Balch,
Henry H. Boody,
Committee.
Report read and accepted.
The proposition to amend the constitution of the Grand Lodge in relation to the place of its annual meetings, which was submitted by Bro. Covell, and laid upon the table, was then called up and considered; and after due deliberation, the question, " Will the Grand Lodge entertain the proposition ? " was taken and decided in the negative; and thus the proposition was rejected.
The proposition submitted by Bro. Tallman, upon the same subject, which had also been laid upon the table, was then called up and considered, and the Grand Lodge, by vote, decided not to entertain this proposition; and the same was accordingly rejected.
REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN CORRESPONDENCE.
The Committee on Foreign Correspondence have once more the privilege of recognizing a benignant Providence in the onward progress of our time-honored institution, and of presenting the fraternal salutations of the numerous branches of the masonic family in correspondence with this Grand Lodge.
Communications embracing the proceedings at the annual, semi-annual or quarterly meetings, have been received since our last annual communication, from the Grand Lodges of New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, Wisconsin, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, District of Columbia, Alabama, Tennessee. Iowa, Arkansas, Louisiana, Texas and Florida.
difficulties in New York.
In addition to the usual correspondence, there have been received an unusual number of special communications in the form of letters, circulars
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statements and resolutions, growing out of the unhappy divisions in the fraternity in New York, to which allusion was made in the close of our last annual report, and which was referred to this committee for further notice at this meeting. Upon this unhappy controversy the present duty of the committee is diminished by the action of this Grand Lodge at its meeting in January. Prior to that meeting, each body claiming to be the Grand Lodge of New York, had published its version of the controversy, and plead its own cause before the great tribunal of its choice—the masonic fraternity of the world. These appeals, thus fairly made, seemed to invite an early response, and promptly has it been given by a large number of the Grand Lodges.
The decision of this Grand Lodge is embodied in the following report and resolutions, presented by a committee at the January meeting, and unanimously adopted: [See Special Communication at close of this.]
"The committee apointed to consider the difficulties that have arisen among the masonic fraternity in the State of New York, have attended to the duty so far as their limited time would allow, and ask leave to report by the accompanying resolutions.
Allen Haines,
Jno. C. Humphreys,
Freeman Bradford,
Committee.
" First. Resolved, That the Grand Lodge of Maine, in view of the unhappy schism, which has given rise to a plurality of Grand Lodges in the State of New York, does most earnestly beseech their brethren in that jurisdiction to apply the excellent precepts inculcated in our ritual as the only sovereign remedy for all their existing difficulties.
"Second. Resolved, That there can be but one legitimate Grand Lodge in each state; and that this Grand Lodge fully recognizes, as the only legitimate Grand Lodge of the State of New York, that of which M. W. John D. Willard is, at present, Grand Master, and R. W. Robert R. Boyd, Grand Secretary.
" Third. Resolved, That the several subordinate lodges in this jurisdiction be instructed to refuse admission to all visitors from the State of New York, who do not furnish the proper evidence of connection with the Grand Lodge recognized by the foregoing resolution.
" The report was accepted by the Grand Lodge, and the resolutions unanimously adopted.
" Voted, That the Grand Secretary prepare a circular, embracing the action of the Grand Lodge in relation to a General Grand Lodge, and the difficulties in New York ; and that he transmit a copy thereof to each Grand Lodge in correspondence with this Grand Lodge, and to each subordinate lodge in this state.
C. B. SMITH, Grand Secretary."
Your committee deem it unnecessary to employ extensive argument to justify this decision, sustained as it is by the voice of every Grand Lodge whose action in the premises has been made known to us. A brief history of the controversy and the position of the parties, is all that is deemed necessary to a full vindication of the verdict so generally awarded by the Grand Lodges of the Union. The controversy arose, as stated in our last report, from a proposed amendment to the Constitution of the Grand Lodge,
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which would deprive Past Masters of subordinate lodges, except the last who had passed the chair, of the privilege of voting in the Grand Lodge, unless they were proxies or representatives of subordinate lodges. This proposition had been made in due form and had been adopted by a strong vote at one annual communication and published in its minutes and submitted to the subordinate lodges for their action, in accordance with a provision of the Constitution, which required that an amendment, in order to become a part of the Constitution, should either be approved by vote at two regular meetings of the Grand Lodge, or else, after being once approved by vote in the Grand Lodge, it should receive the approval of a majority of subordinate lodges. It appears, from the representations of both parties, that after the amendments were proposed a vigorous opposition arose on the part of numerous Past Masters, and in some of the lodges in the city of New York and its vicinity, and this gave rise to active efforts of both parties to secure the action of the country lodges, in accordance with the wishes of each party. Public meetings were held, resolutions adopted and circulars sent forth in all directions, designed to influence the decisions of the several lodges in the state. At a quarterly meeting of the Grand Lodge in March, 1849, at which the Deputy Grand Master presided, a large number of the disaffected Past Masters were present, while only eighteen of the subordinate lodges were represented, and those belonging to the city and its vicinity. At this meeting, a Past Deputy Grand Master introduced resolutions denouncing the proposed amendments as unconstitutional, at variance with the principles on which the Grand Lodge was founded and destructive of the rights of Past Masters, and pledging the Grand Lodge to preserve the rights of Past Masters, as then existing, whatever might be the decision of the subordinate lodges on the proposed amendments. The Deputy Grand Master presiding declined to put the question on the resolution, on the ground that it was unconstitutional for the Grand Lodge to act at a quarterly session on any measure which interested the craft generally. His decision was appealed from and overruled, and the resolution and preamble unanimously adopted.
The proposed amendments were adopted by a majority of the lodges in the state, regardless of this action at the quarterly meeting, and the certificates of these lodges adopting the amendments lodged with the Grand Secretary ; and thus matters stood at the opening of the annual meeting on the evening of the first Tuesday in June, 1849.
Before the usual hour for opening the Grand Lodge, a large body of the Past Masters and representatives of the city and Brooklyn, and the Staten Island lodges, had taken possession of the front seats in the room in the Howard House, and before the representatives of distant lodges had come in, more than two-thirds of the seats were thus occupied, so that it was impossible for the country members generally, to hear what was passing in the neighborhood of the presiding officer. Before the Grand Master came in, or
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about half past seven o'clock, in opposition to the protest of the Grand Junior Warden, a Past Deputy Grand Master from the city, encouraged by votes of those in the front seats, took the chair and declared the meeting opened, without the usual formalities of prayer by the Grand Chaplain, and directed the Grand Secretary to call the roll of members. In this stage of the meeting the Grand Master arrived; the Past Deputy who had possession of the chair and gavel surrendered them to him, who then proceeded to open the Grand Lodge in the usual form, with prayer by the Grand Chaplain. The Grand Secretary in proceeding to call the roll of members, announced officially to the Grand Lodge that the amendments to the Constitution in relation to Past Masters, which had been adopted at a previous annual meeting of that body, had since received the affirmative votes of a majority of all the lodges under its jurisdiction, and thereby become a part of its Constitution. On calling the roll, it was ascertained that seventy-six of the subordinate lodges were represented.
The Grand Master then rose to make his annual report, as required to do, when he was interrupted by cries and yells of those seated near him, so that it was impossible for him to proceed. Some one in this confusion called for the reading of the minutes of the quarterly session in March, and also of the last quarterly session of the Grand Steward's Lodge. This call was then joined in by those interrupting the Grand Master, but was declared out of order at that time, as he bad risen to deliver his annual address. These calls were persisted in in the face of the decision of the chair, and the noise and disorderly conduct were persisted in, regardless of the sound of the gavel, the calls of order, and the reading of the rules of order. Not being able to quell the disorder, the Grand Master at length called to him one of the Past Grand Officers who had taken part in the disturbance, and inquired whether, if the minutes called for should be first read, he would engage that the question on approving them should be offered and taken in the usual form, and that then the Grand Master should be listened to in silence. On receiving an affirmative answer, the Grand Master then said he would overlook the gross insult offered to himself and the Grand Lodge, and permit the minutes to be read; and they were read by the Grand Secretary.
One of those who had taken part in the disturbance then moved that those proceedings should be approved and confirmed, but subsequently was prevailed upon to withdraw the proposition to confirm the procedings, and the other part of the motion was adopted without opposition.
The Grand Master then proceeded to give his address, reporting the condition, progress and work of the order under his administration, during the year. One part of the proceedings of the year was the action in relation to the aforesaid amendments which had been adopted at the previous annual meeting, and which he stated had been adopted by fifty-six of the ninety-nine warranted lodges of this state, forty-nine of which had adopted them by unanimous vote, while only three lodges had returned a negative vote.
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He stated also that undoubted information unofficially had reached him. that some other lodges bad voted in favor of the amendments, and that a majority of the lodges working under dispensations had also voted in favor of the amendments; and although their votes were not counted, they were important as showing the sentiment of the new branches of the order. He stated that in these amendments the provisions of the Constitution had been strictly complied with, and that they were now a part of the Constitution, and as such were binding on the Grand Lodge and the whole fraternity of the state.
He expressed his opinion that this amendment was proper, just and expedient, and calculated to act beneficially in every part of the state, and in every portion of the fraternity ; at the same time he disclaimed all disrespect to any one Past Master, and paid them a high compliment as a class occupying an elevated position as men and masons, justly enjoying the respect and confidence of their brethren. He admitted their right to resort to all constitutional means to defeat the amendment, while the discussion was pending ; but as they did not succeed, and as it had become a part of the constitution, all good masons would now submit to it till it should be changed by a constitutional mode. After various conciliatory remarks and suggestions, the Grand Master concluded by saying, " My brethren, we are about to enter on the discharge of important duties. Let us discharge those duties in a spirit of kindness and conciliation. And I pray the Supreme Architect of the Universe that harmony and brotherly love may prevail, and every moral. and social virtue cement us."
After the close of the address, a Past Grand Officer, then temporarily occupying the chair of Junior Grand Warden, inquired if he correctly understood the Grand Master as saying that the amendment to the Constitution alluded to was now binding on the Grand Lodge; and being answered in the affirmative, he said in a loud tone, "Then I pronounce that the Grand Lodge of the State of New York is dissolved ;"* and although called to order by the Grand Master, he then called on those opposed to the amendment to assist in organizing a Grand Lodge. He nominated William Willis as chairman, put the motion and declared him elected. The said Willis then took a position near the Grand Master (who labored in vain to preserve order, and whose voice was immediately drowned by hideous noises when he attempted to speak), and in this confusion he, with his associates, went through the form of electing Isaac Phillips and others by hand vote as Grand Officers. Of the seventy-five lodges represented in the room, only the representatives, or Past Masters, of some twenty-six or twenty-seven lodges took part in these proceedings. One only of the officers of the Grand Lodge was elected in this new organization, viz: John Horspool, the Grand
----
*This language is reported with some variation by the conflicting parties. The substance is essentially the same.
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Treasurer. During this scene of confusion, the Grand Master retained the oriental chair and the gavel and jewel of his office. The other Grand Officers also, who were present at the opening, retained their places and appropriate regalia; and after the chairman thus elected had left, with a portion of the seceders, one of the Grand Officers moved an adjournment to the same house at nine o'clock the next morning; which motion was put by the Grand Master and carried.
On assembling at the hour of adjournment and calling the roll, thirty-nine lodges were present by their Master and Wardens, or their appointed proxies—ten lodges being sufficient for the transaction of business. It was then ascertained that the keeper of the Howard House had let the hall to the seceding body for the year and surrendered the keys to an officer or agent of that body. The lodge then opened in due form, and after providing for a place of meeting for the session, adjourned to a later hour of the same day.
The Grand Lodge met in the afternoon as per adjournment at the Coliseum, when sixty lodges were represented, and it continued its sessions by regular adjournments till June 11th, when, its work being finished, it was closed in the usual form.
During the session, John D. Willard was re-elected Grand Master, William H. Milnor, Deputy Grand Master, Ezra S. Barnum and Nelson Randal, Grand Wardens, Robert R. Boyd was re-elected Grand Secretary, and Gerardus Boyce, Grand Treasurer.
These officers being located in the state, agreeable to the Articles of Union, were installed on the fourth day of the session, except the Grand Master, who had been previously installed.
On the second day of the session, John Horspool, the Grand Treasurer, by resolution of the Grand Lodge, was notified that the Grand Lodge had removed to the Coliseum, 450 Broadway, and that he was required to attend the Grand Lodge at that place the next morning at ten o'clock, and bring with him the funds and other property belonging to the lodge. Having been duly notified and refusing to obey the summons, and refusing to deliver up the funds and property in his possession, he was expelled from the fraternity by vote of the Grand Lodge. The five highest Grand Officers were authorized, in their discretion, to take legal means for the recovery of the property of the Grand Lodge, which was then or might be afterwards wrongfully withheld.
It is also asserted that at an early stage of the excitement arising in connection with the secession or revolution above described, a box marked R. R. Boyd, belonging to the Grand Secretary, containing some two thousand dollars of money belonging to the Grand Lodge, most of which bad that day been received from subordinate lodges, also containing money and other private property of R. R. Boyd, was forcibly seized and retained in the possession of the seceders. It seems that the Grand Secretary, fore-
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seeing that the disorder might be carried to extremes, placed this box in the hands of a brother to be carried and lodged in the Grand Secretary's office for safe keeping, and that it was wrested from the bearer by violence and afterwards came into the possession of the officers of the new organization. At the same time others seized upon important papers, the book of minutes, lodge book, cash book and ledger, which the R. W. Robert R. Boyd had on his table at the Grand Secretary's desk. Not content with this, others of the seceders got possession of the Grand Secretary's office, although it had been left locked by the Grand Secretary, who still had the key in his pocket. Here they took possession of the Grand Lodge library, records and other valuable papers. All these articles, the property of the Grand Lodge, were thus held by the party concerned in forming the new organization. Having got possession of these materials and gone through the ceremony of electing Grand Officers by hand vote as before stated, the seceders adjourned till the next evening at eight o'clock, and in the meantime secured the lease of the hall in the Howard House, and the closing of it against the legitimate Grand Lodge, and also fastened the door of the Grand Secretary's office with chain and a padlock. On Wednesday evening the seceders assembled at eight o'clock, and after opening it was announced that in accordance with instructions of the Grand Master elect, the M. W. Past Grand Masters Daniel B. Bruen and Ira Merchant, of the Grand Lodge of New Jersey, had been invited, and engaged to be present to assist in the installation of the Grand Officers elect. This announcement was made by W. Bro. Tisdall, a representative of the Grand Lodge of New Jersey, who took the occasion to congratulate the Grand Master, and extend to him the right hand of fellowship of that state.
These Past Grand Masters from New Jersey were introduced with the honors due to their rank, and participated in the installation of the officers. During the evening, the M. W. Past Grand Master Earle, of the State of New Jersey, was announced, and received with the honors of his rank. These Past Grand Masters of New Jersey, on receiving a vote of thanks from the Grand Lodge for their assistance in the installation of the officers, the W. Ira Merchant responded in behalf of his brethren, and "pledged the support of the Grand Lodge of New Jersey in maintaining the honorable career of the Grand Lodge of New York." The Grand Officers thus elected and installed in the seceding body, were
R. W. ISAAC PHILLIPS, M. W. G. M.
R. W. JOSEPH CUYLER, D. G. M.
R. W. THOMAS D. JAMES, S. G. W.
R. W. DAVID BOOTH, J. G. W.
R. W. JAMES HERRING, G. Sec.
R. W. JOHN HORSPOOL, G. Treas.
At this meeting a resolution was adopted," directing the Grand Secretary, James Herring, to demand and receive from the late Grand Secretary, R. R.
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Boyd, and from all others, late officers, or persons of the Grand Lodge, all property, effects and papers belonging to the Grand Lodge." The meeting was adjourned to Thursday evening, when after receiving various reports, and transacting other business, the body closed its session.
The legitimate Grand Lodge, which, after the first evening, held its sessions in the Coliseum, by adjournment, till the 11th of June, in the course of its proceedings, after summoning several of the leaders and participators in these disorderly proceedings, to appear before them, in order to defend or justify their conduct, proceeded to expel some of them from the privileges of Masonry. Among these were Isaac Phillips, William Willis, James Herring, John Horspool, Joseph Cuyler and Fitzgerald Tisdall. The case of several others whose expulsion was recommended by a Committee of Investigation, was referred to the Grand Steward's Lodge till the next quarterly meeting.
Such is a brief history of the unhappy controversy which convulsed the masonic fraternity in the Empire State at its last annual communication, and which has been proclaimed substantially by both parties in their appeals to the Grand Lodges of the world. While the facts in the case disclose the painful truth that the frailties of our common nature still exist among those who have vowed allegiance to the noblest principles, and who have been clothed with the honors of our order and have shared the fraternal confidence of brethren, the final issue we trust will also show that there is in the order firmness of principle, and a moral force capable of breasting the tide of human passion, and a Divine Providence overshadowing this order, whose wisdom can bring good out of evil, and give through trials and conflicts a salutary discipline. It is well that both parties in this conflict have given their own version of the facts, and that each has argued its case with ability before a tribunal sufficiently extended and unaffected by local prejudices and prepossessions, so that a final verdict can be given without needless delay, and one which we will hope may be worthy of the cause and just to the parties. It is to be regretted that on either party there should be the use of language, and the manifestation of temper so far at variance with the " charity that never faileth," as we find in some of the documents issued by the seceding body, and under the beautiful seal of the Grand Looge, and especially as such a spirit is contagious and is apt to be exhibited in reply. One important result of this controversy is the calling forth of a legal opinion from Chancellor Walworth, which is a document of great value, containing as it does a lucid historical statement of the transactions reviewed, a full investigation of the claim of the seceding members, based upon the supposed inherent rights of Past Masters, whether derived from ancient usage, or the original charter of the Grand Lodge of New York, or the compact of 1827.
These researches into the ancient constitutions and usages of Masonry, and of the constitution or charter of the Grand Lodge of New York, will
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possess a permanent value to the fraternity at large, and the decision to which he comes with the reasonings and facts on which it is based, must go far to convince all unprejudiced minds of the justice of the verdict which this and other Grand Lodges have rendered, sustaining as they do that body of which M. W. John D, Willard is the Grand Master and R. W. Robert R. Boyd, the Grand Secretary, as the legitimate and only Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons in the State of New York. The committee would here leave this painful part of their duty, adopting most cordially the language of the resolutions appended to an able report adopted by the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, and say with our brethren there, 1 We do most earnestly and affectionately call upon every individual brother in our sister state, whatever may be his present opinions, to discard all prejudices, all bitterness of feeling and by God's aid to seek the truth, and especially to follow out the things that make for peace, remembering that as we are all members of one body, if one member suffer all the members suffer with it."
* * * "Resolved, That this Grand Lodge do sincerely hope that the brethren whose acts we feel compelled to condemn, will, after dispassionate consideration of the evils which must result to the craft generally from the present state of Masonry in New York, be induced to adopt such a course as may lead to a restoration of order and harmony among the fraternity."
GRAND LODGE CERTIFICATES.
Another matter submitted to this committee, of some importance, is contained in a circular from the St. John's Lodge, Newark, N. J., and which is based upon the previous and repeated requests of the Grand Lodge of New York, that no Grand Lodge or subordinate lodges in other states, would admit visiting brethren from that state unless they could present Grand Lodge certificates that they belonged to a subordinate lodge in fellowship with the Grand Lodge of that state. It is obvious that if caution in admitting visiting brethren hailing from New York was necessary prior to the recent painful conflict, there is surety not less need of caution now, since there are two bodies now claiming to be the legitimate Grand Lodges of the state, beside the so-called St. John's Grand Lodge. Such caution is fully recommended to the subordinates of this Grand Lodge in the resolutions of this body adopted at the January communication and sent to all the lodges, and is now repeated in this report. At the same time, with our brethren in New Jersey, we do not at present feel called upon to recommend a rigid adoption of a definite and particular method of proving visiting brethren from a particular state and locality in the form of Grand Lodge certificates. We believe there are objections to such a course, and the present attitude of the two bodies in New York fairly illustrated one of them. Here are two nominal Grand Lodges, each claiming to be legitimate, and, unfortunately for visiting brethren, the seal of the Grand Lodge which ought to be affixed to
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the certificates is in the hands of the body, which by our resolutions we disown and repudiate as a Grand Lodge. Without multiplying words on the question, or dictating to other bodies the course of duty, your committee recommend the exercise of all that caution which obligations of our order enjoin in the admission of visiting brethren, and with a knowledge of the existing difficulties in New York we may reasonably demand of brethren who hail from that state, satisfactory evidence that they are in fellowship with the subordinates of the legitimate Grand Lodge. As allusion has been made to the St. John's Grand Lodge in New York, and as it was the existence and irregular action of this body that furnished a prominent occasion for the adoption of Grand Lodge certificates, it seems due to the Grand Lodge and its subordinates that a brief history of this irregular body should be recorded. It seems that in the month of June, 1837, York Lodge, No. 367, and Silentia Lodge, both subordinates of the Grand Lodge of New York, resolved to celebrate the anniversary of St. John the Baptist on the 24th of June, by a public procession. Benevolent Lodge and brethren from other lodges subsequently united with them. Having some doubts whether they had a right to form a public procession without a dispensation from the Grand Master, a sub-committee was directed to call on the Grand Secretary and inquire whether there were any constitutional objections to such a procession, of which they were not informed—the Grand Secretary replied that " he knew of none, they had the constitution and could read for themselves, and govern themselves accordingly." The lodges proceeded with their arrangements till the 24th of June, when a prohibition of the Deputy Grand Master was served on York Lodge and Benevolent Lodge, and the Deputy Grand Master and Grand Secretary were personally present on that day to prevent the procession. But these lodges and the brethren associated with them went forward with the procession, regardless of the prohibition and the efforts of the Grand Officers above named. In consequence of this, a charge was preferred against York Lodge before the Grand Lodge, " For creating a disturbance and confusion among the fraternity, subversive of the principles of the order and injurious to its prosperity and character, by a violation of duty to the Grand Lodge." This charge was sustained by five specifications thus stated—"Resolving to hold a public procession without authority; publishing this intention in the newspapers; inviting other lodges and brethren to unite with them; holding the procession in defiance of repeated decisions of the Grand Lodge, in violation of the rules of the Grand Lodge and in violation of the prohibition of the Deputy Grand Master." Similar charges were also preferred against several brothers who had taken a leading part in the celebration. At the meeting of the Grand Lodge at which these charges were preferred, the case was referred by decision of the chair, after several counts of votes, to the Grand Steward's Lodge. The Grand Steward's Lodge proceeded to expel Bros. H. C. At-wood, William F. Piatt and all the officers and members of York Lodge.
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The expelled brethren appealed to the Grand Lodge, denying the right of the Grand Steward's Lodge to expel them, and denying the correctness of the decision of the Grand Master in regard to the vote by which their case was thus referred, and in this appeal they were sustained by the certificate of Bro. Thomas S. Brady, then an alderman of the city of New York. The appeal to the Grand Lodge, after various objections to the course of the Grand Lodge and the decision of the Grand Steward's Lodge in the premises, resulted in the confirmation of the records and the expulsion of the York Lodge and the offending members associated with them in the celebration.
On the 11th of September, 1837, these expelled members, in connection with others, proceeded to form themselves into a body which they called the " St. John's Grand Lodge of the State of New York," and as such they ask to be received and recognized by the fraternity as a part of the masonic family. Your committee fully concur in the language of the able report adopted by the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, in November, 1848, after a full and critical review of the whole affair. " The committee are compelled to report, that this Grand Lodge cannot recognize St. John's Grand Lodge as a legally constituted Grand Lodge, nor any of the lodges or masons under its jurisdiction, as brethren worthy to receive from us the rights and benefits of masonry."
In conclusion of this topic we may again urge upon our subordinate lodges the utmost care in the admission of visiting brethren from the State of New York, and as three distinct bodies claim to be Grand Lodges of that state, we have a right to require satisfactory evidence that the applicant for admission is in regular standing within the jurisdiction of the one of which M. W. John D. Willard is the present Grand Master, and R. W. Robert R. Boyd, Grand Secretary.
DIFFICULTIES IN LOUISIANA.
In relation to the difficulties in Louisiana, the committee have chosen to delay any decision till the last moment, in the hope that we might be able to report an amicable reconciliation of the two bodies claiming jurisdiction as Grand Lodges. Intimations have come to us which encourage this hope, but nothing official has reached us on which we can base a decision in accordance with this hope.
Since the last year's report we have no communication from the old Grand Lodge of Louisiana. From the new Grand Lodge we have a very able report of a committee, signed by W. H. Howard, as Grand Secretary of said Grand Lodge. This report is ably drawn up, and in a spirit and temper which does justice to its authors and the principles of Masonry. It is a temperate review of the action of several Grand Lodges in relation to the divisions in that state, and a more full and complete exhibition of the alleged innovations and irregularities of the old Grand Lodge, which gave rise to
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the formation of the new one. It contains also a defence of the action of the Grand Lodge of Mississippi in assuming jurisdiction in that state. This defence goes far to show that Mississippi did not act hastily or rashly in assuming jurisdiction. They were appealed to by aggrieved brethren in Louisiana, in 1846, on the 23d of January. The Grand Lodge then appointed a committee to confer with the Grand Lodge of Mississippi on the alleged abuses, and the said committee went to New Orleans for that purpose, and made their report soon after. In 1846, the subject was again brought up in the Grand Lodge of Mississippi, on motion to take up the report of said committee, which report is as follows:
The committee to whom was referred the controversy between the Ancient York Masons of the State of Louisiana on the one side, and the Scotch and French Masons of said state on the other, have duly considered the subject, and beg leave to report the following resolutions :
1. Resolved, That no Grand Lodge of Scotch and French, or Modern Masonry can assume jurisdiction over any Ancient York Mason, or body of such.
2. Resolved, That it is not consistent with Ancient York Masonry, to unite with Scotch and Modern Masonry, or either of them, in the formation of a lodge, Grand or subordinate.
3. Resolved, That there is no Grand Lodge of Ancient York Masons within the limits of the State of Louisiana.
4. Resolved, That this Grand Lodge has the power, and it is its duty on proper application, to issue dispensations and charters to bodies of Ancient York Masons within the limits of the State of Louisiana, until a constitution of a Grand Lodge within that state.
6. Resolved, That we entertain the highest opinion of the distinguished body known as the Grand Lodge of Louisiana, and are willing to contribute as much as possible, consistent with our obligations, to aid and protect Ancient York Masons, wheresoever dispersed, and to maintain our order pure and unmingled, to preserve friendly relations with that honorable body.
6. Resolved, That under no possible circumstances would this Grand Lodge assume jurisdiction over a Scotch or Modern Mason, or body of such, such assumption being alike inconsistent with their rights and our principles.
DUDLEY S. JENNINGS,
R. N. DOWNING,
J. J. DOTY,
Committee
At the same time there was presented the following minority report:
The undersigned, a member of the committee to whom was referred so much of the address of the M. W. Grand Master, as relates to the M. W. Grand Lodge of Louisiana, and also the verbal report of the committee appointed to visit that M. W. body, begs leave to state by way of minority report: That the M. W. Grand Lodge of the State of Louisiana was organized exclusively after the Ancient York Rite, and so remained for a number of years, until it accumulated the Scotch and French rites. Said Grand Lodge is constituted by the free and voluntary meetings of the subordinate lodges of the state, represented for life by the Master of each lodge, who has presided over his lodge for one year, and temporarily by the Senior and Junior Wardens. According to the information now before the undersigned, there are now in active operation fourteen lodges working in the Ancient York Rite; four in the Scotch Rite, accumulating the York and Modern Rite, and two in the Modern Rite, accumulating the Scotch and York Rite.
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The undersigned would further respectfully submit, that no one of the fourteen lodges above named, (as the undersigned believes,) has made any official complaint to this body of any improper or unmasonic conduct on the part of the M. W. Grand Lodge of Louisiana. The undersigned is aware of the fact that St. Albans Lodge, No. 28, Louisiana, did, on the 9th July last, issue a circular, addressed to the York lodges in that state, requesting them to meet in convention and form a Grand Lodge of York Masons. The undersigned has yet to learn that more than one other lodge of the State of Louisiana accepted or acted on the proposition of the said St. Albans Lodge. The undersigned would further represent that the M. W. Grand Lodge of Louisiana was constituted exclusively in the York Rite, that it is still a York Grand Lodge, accumulating the Scotch and Modern Rite; that it grants charters authorizing masonic work and labor in the York Rite exclusively, and that it also grants charters authorizing work in either the Scotch or French Rite, but invariably requires, in the latter cases, that the York Rite shall always be communicated upon the candidate for the degrees in the latter lodges. All the masons of Louisiana are thus strictly Ancient York, though many of them possess also the French and Scotch Rite. These rites obtain generally throughout the world, and any reflection upon the organization of the M. W. Grand Lodge of Louisiana would equally reflect upon the conduct and proceedings of the Supreme Bodies of Masonry in France, Scotland and other nations, where these rites are peculiarly esteemed. The undersigned would respectfully submit that this Grand Lodge do respectfully and fraternally remonstrate with the M. W. Grand Lodge of Louisiana upon its tolerance of the use by its subordinate lodges of *******, *****, or their peculiar charts. The following resolutions are submitted :
1. Resolved, That this Grand Lodge finds nothing in the proceedings of the M. W. Grand Lodge of Louisiana, which demands a termination of the masonic relations heretofore existing between them.
2. Resolved, That this Grand Lodge would not, (at least under present circumstances,) feel itself justified in granting dispensations or charters to any body of masons in the State of Louisiana.
All which is respectfully submitted,
H. W. WALTER.
On the seventeenth day of the same month, the subject was again brought up, and a second minority report was presented as follows :
The undersigned, one of the select committee appointed to take into consideration the matter of the verbal reports of the delegates to the Grand Lodge of Louisiana, and also the complaints of a body of Ancient York Masons in that State, and differing from the other members of the committee, begs leave to report separately, to the consideration of this Grand Lodge, the following resolutions as embodying his views upon the subject:
1. Resolved, That in view of the relations that have subsisted and do now exist, between this Grand Lodge and the M. W. Grand Lodge of Louisiana, and the recognition by this Grand Lodge of that as a Grand Masonic Body, it is not deemed proper or expedient at this time, to grant charters or dispensations to any body of masons, residing within the jurisdiction of the said Grand Lodge of Louisiana.
2. Resolved, That the practice of conferring degrees by the Grand Officers of the said Grand Lodge, and the subordinate lodges under its jurisdiction, by means of ******* charts used in said lodge, is contrary to a correct and indispensable usage and custom of masonry, and directly subversive of the distinguishing character of our order, and if persisted in, will necessarily eventuate in a dissolution of the friendly masonic relations subsisting between us.
3. Resolved, That in the opinion of this lodge, the mingling of different rites as practiced under the authority of the Grand Lodge of Louisiana, ought, properly, to be abandoned.
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4. Resolved, That this Grand Lodge do most affectionately and fraternally urge upon the consideration of our sister Grand Lodge of Louisiana, that by conciliation and compromise, they reconcile the difficulties which have arisen, and now exist, between said Grand Lodge and some brethren, Ancient York Masons in that state.
5. Resolved, That the M. W. Grand Master enter into a correspondence with the Grand Lodge of Louisiana, or with its officers, expressing to them the views of this Grand Lodge in regard to the grievances complained of, and call their immediate attention and consideration to the subject.
Respectfully submitted,
GEORGE A. WILSON.
This was received, and, on motion, the following resolution adopted:
"Resolved, That the various reports and documents upon the subject of Masonry in Louisiana, in possession of this Grand Lodge, be referred to the M. W. Grand Master, who is requested to enter into correspondence with the Grand Officers of the M. W. Grand Lodge of Louisiana, expressing to them the views of this Grand Lodge in regard to the grievances complained of, and urge the correction of them to the immediate attention and consideration of the Grand Lodge of Louisiana.
The subject came up again on the 16th of February, 1847, at the annual communication, and all documents relating to masonry in Louisiana were referred to a select committee of seven. On the day following, the seventeenth of February, petitions were presented to the Grand Lodge of Mississippi for a new lodge at New Orleans, to be known as George Washington, and one at Lafayette, to be styled Lafayette Lodge.
The special committee subsequently reported as follows:
Whereas, In the opinion of this Grand Lodge, each distinctive rite produces different powers which govern it, and is independent of all others : and, whereas, no Grand Lodge of Scotch, French or cumulative rites can legally assume jurisdiction over any Ancient York Lodge :
Therefore, Resolved, That the Grand Lodge of Louisiana being composed of a cumulation of rites, cannot be recognized by this Grand Lodge as a Grand Lodge of Ancient York Masons.
Resolved, That this Grand Lodge will grant dispensations and charters to any legal number of Ancient York Masons, residing within the State of Louisiana, they making due application for the same.
B. S. Tappan, W. Cooper, Samuel B. Malone,
Ira S. Mitchell, A. Hutchinson, Chas. A. Lacoste, Chas. J. Searles,
Committee.
The report and resolutions were adopted, and the Grand Secretary was ordered to issue dispensations to the above named lodges. It is thus claimed by the committee of the new Grand Lodge that Mississippi acted with due deliberation and in good faith; and, in view of existing facts, in accordance with masonic courtesy and duty.
This review of Masonry in Louisiana, from which we have thus noticed,
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does seem adapted to increase the conviction that some action was really needed in that jurisdiction, and to render it probable that the action of Mississippi, in view of all the facts, was justifiable, and may tend to secure final harmony and prosperity in that state. This view has been taken by some of the Grand Lodges which have most recently acted upon this subject. Such was the action of the Grand Lodge of Vermont in January last. She sustains Missisippi and recognizes the New Grand Lodge in Louisiana, and suspends masonic intercourse with the old; but at the same time expressing the hope that a union will be effected on the basis of Ancient York Masonry; and they adopt a contingent resolution, authorizing the Grand Master to resume correspondence with the old Grand Lodge in case such a union should be effected.
Your committee do not desire to commit this Grand Lodge to this line of action at this time, and they would now recommend the adoption of the following resolutions:
1. Resolved, As the sense of this lodge, that the interests of Masonry require a speedy adjustment of the difficulties in Louisiana.
2. Resolved, That with our present light on the question, it is incumbent on the old Grand Lodge to recede from its position in the matters complained of as departures from the ancient landmarks and established usages of the order, and conform to the time-honored usages which govern the fraternity throughout the world.
3. Resolved, That a union of the two Grand Lodges on this basis would be a matter of devout thankfulness, and be hailed as such throughout the lodges of this country.
4. Resolved, That in case the old Grand Lodge refuse this concession to the body of York Masons in that state, and to the general voice of the Grand Lodges of this country, it will be the duty of this Grand Lodge at no distant period to suspend correspondence with that body, and to recognize the new Grand Lodge of that state.
GENERAL GRAND LODGE,
The subject of a General Grand Lodge still receives the favorable notice of many of the Grand Lodges of the Union. The unhappy divisions in New York, as well as the difficulties in Louisiana, serve to urge the importance of such an organization, and it is probable that the experiment will be fairly tried. Circulars having been received prior to the special communication of this Grand Lodge in January, measures were adopted to secure the representation of this Grand Lodge in a proposed convention, as will be seen by by the following extract:
Grand Lodge of Maine. At a special communication of the M. W. Grand Lodge of Maine, holden at Masons' Hall, in Portland, on the twenty-second day of January, 1850:
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The Grand Secretary laid upon the table circulars received from the Grand Lodges of Maryland, the District of Columbia and Rhode Island, in relation to the formation of a General Grand Lodge of the United States; which were referred to R. W. Brothers F. Bradford, D H. Mitchell, and George Small, who, having duly considered the subject matter thereof, subsequently reported by resolutions, as follows:
1. Resolved, That in the opinion of this Grand Lodge, it is expedient to establish a Grand Lodge of the United States, under wholesome regulations.
2. Resolved, That the most convenient place for the location of such Grand Lodge, is the city of Washington, in the District of Columbia.
3. Resolved, That this Grand Lodge proceed to elect, by ballot, one delegate to represent her in the convention, which is to assemble in Washington on the first Wednesday in May next, for the purpose of forming a Constitution for a Grand Lodge of the United States; and that his expenses be paid by this Grand Lodge.
The report of the committee was accepted, and the resolutions, after being duly considered, were adopted unanimously.
The Grand Lodge then proceeded to the choice of a delegate, in accordance with the third resolution, and the M. W. Joseph C. Stevens, G. M., was duly elected.
We have thus answered that Maine will be fairly represented in the proposed convention, which was to assemble the present week, and we are happy to know that our Most Worshipful Grand Master has so good an excuse for his absence on this occasion.
In reviewing at so great length the difficulties existing in the order in two of our sister Grand Lodges, the committee feel that they are hardly warranted in giving that space or attention to the healthy and progressive action of the masonic Institution, and the fruitful labors of the craft throughout the world. In our own country, your committee are impressed with the evidence of growth and prosperity which are everywhere apparent, with the exception of the jurisdictions of New York and Louisiana.
Perhaps it may be asserted that the trials in those states, painful as they have been to all good and true masons throughout the union, may be at this moment contributing largely to the substantial and permanent prosperity of the order. Certain it is they tend powerfully to bring out and render apparent the moral strength and sentiment of the great body of our Grand Lodges, and leading to a careful scrutiny of all the usages now* prevailing, and to an earnest inquiry after the old paths and the ancient landmarks, and to endeavor to correct whatever may need correction. Thus may it ever prove that trials and offences, if they must come, may be overruled for good, and illustrate the power and excellence of the Institution and principles of Masonry, in bringing good out of evil and order out of confusion; thus acting in harmony with its Divine Author. The healthful progress of the Institution during the year is full of promise. Never before, we believe, did our order occupy so important and commanding a position in our country as at this moment. Never was its power of doing good greater than it is now. Its responsibilities are of course high and imperative.
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