Chapter VI

CHAPTER VI
PROGRESSING ONvV ARD
"Fight on," said Sir Henry Barton
I am hurt but I am not slain;
I'll lay me down and bleed awhile
And then I'll rise and fight again."
Josephus, in his "Antiquities of the Jews", tells us of the departure of
Moses from mankind B.c. 1451. The congregation is gathered near
Jordan, a place full of palm trees. He makes his last speech. In it is
this sentence, which deserves to be had in constant remembrance by all
men. "0, children of Israel! there is but one source of happiness for all
mankind, the favour of God." After his farewell, he turns over to them
the laws and the constitution of government written in a book. He then
departs for his death which is said to have occurred on the first of February,
B.C. 1451. There was no one at his funeral-no one but God. Later
according to Scripture, an angel came, opened his grave and carried him
up to Heaven.
Moses has departed and Joshua plants his feet on the platform of History
so solidly that all the ages echo with his tread. He was a Fighter. He
fought five great battles.
The First: This was a battle greater than any the mind of man can
conceive. It was against the Jordan at the time of the spring freshet.
The snows of Mt. Lebanon had melted and the Jordan was a raging
-torrent. The Canaanites on the other side were wild with glee. "He
can't touch us now," they cried. But Joshua cries, "Forward." Two
Priests pick up a box. It is four feet long and two feet wide. It is the
Ark of the Covenant. They march forward and as their feet touch the
water, the Jordan parts and the army marches over without a wet foot.
They climb the river bank, thirty or forty feet high, and sing praises to
Almighty God. Then the great mountains of water come together with
a mighty roar. The die is cast because God makes no provision for
retreat. It is either victory ahead or forty feet of water in the rear.
They go on to victory.
The Second: It is against a STONE WALL.
There stands Jericho, a mighty city, one that laughs at swords, spears
and battering rams. Joshua needs none of these things. He calls for rams
horns. Seven priests are ordered to march around the city each day for
six days and to blow upon their horns as they march. What a Picture!
How silly it must have appeared to the laughing people back of those
strong walls. Then came the seventh day. They were ordered to go
around the walls blow their horns seven times. On the seventh blow,
a great shout went up and the walls of Jericho came tumbling down. Only
one house remained. It was the house of Rahab, a sinner who had repented.
A red cord hung from her window. It was the red cord of
God's mercy_
Battle Three: Leading Whipped Cowards.
There is a city of Ali. It must be taken. A scouting party comes back.
81
82 Anacostia Lodge, No. 921, F. A. A. M.,
"General, let us do it~it's easy-you stay here." They go but come
running back like frightened rabbits. It's a miserable sight to see men
in frightened retreat. Joshua cries "Forward." He hides the majority
of his troops. He sends a small battalion against the city. They
come out and a merry chase it is. Then Joshua stands upon a rock and
points his spear toward the city. His troops dash out with a mighty shout,
take and destroy the city.
Battle Four Against DARKNESS:
Forward men, the city of Gibeon needs our help. Five Kings are
against it. In three days, he arrives; two long lines of battle, much slaughter
and then the Canaanites begin to retreat. Joshua sees victory but then he
observes that it is growing dark. "Dh, for a longer day, if they get away
now, they will come back and we'll fight again. Looking up, he cries,
"Sun stand thou still upon Gibeon, and thou, moon in the valley of
Ajalon." And the sun and the moon stood still and the victory was secured.
Five Kings lay dead-They couldn't stand before one man.
Battle Five was with the King of Terrors.
The warrior is one hundred and ten and the time has come to die. We
have read of many death scenes, but what a scene this is. He gathers his
people around him. He speaks of his victories and calls upon them to
choose whom they wil1 serve. He reminds them of God's promises to him,
"There shaH not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy
life." With victory over death he cries, "Choose now whom you will
serve, the God of Israel, or the God of the Amorites. As for me and
my house, we will serve the Lord."
(With credit to T. DeWitt Talmage, D.D.)
The first stated communication in the Twentieth Century falls
on the first day of that century and these officers assume their
stations:
Julius W. Tolson .................... Worshipful Master
Frank T. Eno .................................... Senior Warden
Edgar R. Balderston ...................... J unior Warden
John H. King .............................................. Secretary
Claudius B. Smith .................................... Treasurer
Joseph Miller .................................... Senior Deacon
Warren Tolson .................................. Junior Deacon
Charles F. Walson ............. ___ Master of Ceremony
James A. Crawford. ..................... _.. ................. Tiler
In addition to these officers, Adolphus Gude, Past Master and
nine members of the Lodge were in attendance. The Lodge was
opened and the minutes and communications were read. A Finance
and a Proficiency Committee were appointed and the Lodge was
closed.
On the 15th, they ft.ocked back after the holiday and witnessed
of the District of Columbia 83
excellent Degree work. The Trustees' report shows receipts from
the following, who made use of the facilities. Grand Army of the
Republic; Golden Cross; Junior Order of Mechanics; Improved
Order of Red Men; Independent Order of Odd Fellows; Daughters
of America; Professor Roff; School Trustees; and Electa Chapter,
Order of the Eastern Star.
THE OLD HALL COMES BACK
A Mr. Lotz, the purchaser, informed the Lodge that he had
met with very serious financial losses and that he could no longer
meet his obligations. He stated that he had paid One Thousand
Dollars on his bargain and had derived no benefit from it. He
requested the Lodge to give him Fifty Dollars and to assume the
tax burden for a Deed. The Lodge accepted the offer and again
owns the pToperty.
The Most Worshipful Grand Master, William S. HendeTson,
visits the Lodge on May 7th and he and the Grand Lecturer,
Brother Thomas H. Young, both commended the officers very highly
in the manner in which the Fellowcraft Degree was worked. Applications
for the Degrees are rolling in and theTe is plenty of
wOTk, so Special Meetings aTe called.
David N. Russell acquires Lots No. 348 and 349 together with
improvements thereon, and the debt on the Hall was reduced to
Nine Thousand Dollars.
Brother Herman B. Remick was the fiTSt to break the circle,
answering the call of death on October 15th. He was buried, Masonically,
on the 17th in Glenwood Cemetery.
FIRST GRAND VISITATION IN THE TWENTIETH
CENTURY.
A Special Communication was called for October 30th. Seventyfour
members of the Lodge were pTesent, including seven Past
Masters. "There were also pTesent an exceedingly laTge number
of brethren from sister Lodges and a number of visitors from
other Grand Jurisdiction.
The following Grand Officers were present:
William G. Henderson ............................ M.W. Grand Master
HaTTY Standiford .................... R.W. Deputy Grand Master
EvandeT French as .............. _. __ .. R.W. Senior Grand Warden
George H. Walker. . _.. _.. .. _. _____ ._.R.W. Junior Grand Warden
E. St. Clair Thompson as._. ____ ._ ...... _R. W. Grand Secretary
C. C. Duncanson. ... ___ . _ . _ ....... _.. ...... _.. R.W. Grand Treasurer
Thomas H. Young .................... WoTshipful Grand Lecturer
C. B. Smith .............. Reverend Worshipful Grand Chaplain
James A. Wetmore. ........ _.. .......W orshipful Grand Marshal
84 Anacostia Lodge, No. 21, F. A. A. M.,
Charles J. James as _______ Worshipful Grand Senior Deacon
Walter A. Brown. __________ Worshipful Grand Junior Deacon
Frank T. vVoodman _____ . __ .Worshipful Grand Sword Bearer
A. B. Coolidge ____ . _________________ .Worshipful Grand Pursurvant
Henry K. Simpson _______ Worshipful Grand Senior Steward
George C. Ober _____________ Worshipful Grand Junior Steward
John H. Birckhead _________________________ Worshipful Grand Tiler
The following Past Grand Masters were present:
Nobel D. Larner, David G. Dixon and Matthew Trimbal.
The reports were considered.
At the last visitation the membership was 112
Initiated during the year and raised 15
Total
Dropped for non-payment of dues
127
5
Present membership 122
Rejected-3.
The Lodge had reduced its debt by One Thousand Dollars and
Nine Hundred Twenty-one Dollars and sixty-five cents remained
in the Treasurey.
The Grand Master expressed much pleasure over the reports
and voiced "the gratification of the members of the Grand Lodge
at the very extraordinary work accomplished by the Lodge in
raising so many members and reducing its debt." He also expressed
his pleasure at "The exceedingly handsome manner in
which the Lodge room had been decorated, that he had never seen
the like before. (The compliment will be repeated time after
time for many years, for as long as the Gude Brothers lived, they
were most generous in expressing their love for the Lodge by
"telling it with flowers".
THIS IS THE FIRST PROGRAM IN THE TWENTIETII
CENTURY:
Address: Reverend Brother W. G. Davenport
Solo: Brother Dr. Frank J. Woodman, Worshipful Grand
Sword Bearer and a member of Takoma Lodge No. 29.
Recitation: Brother Evander French, Washington Centennial
Lodge, No. 14
Solo: Brother Samuel E. Shields, Past Master, Anacostia
Lodge, No. 21
Address: Reverend Brother Nelson H. Miller, Anacostia Lodge,
No. 21
Solo: Brother Charles J. James, Anacostia Lodge, No. 21.
All retired to the Banquet Hall for refreshments and Cigars.
of the Distr'ict of Columbia 85
At the communication of December 3rd, the following appears
in the report of the Finance Committee:
"The foregoing exhibit of the doings of the Lodge for the past year,
shows that it has been most prosperous in every feature of its transactions;
raising the greatest number of Master Masons, showing the largest number
of members clear of the books, and reduction of the debt, and if the
brethren would make up their minds to assist the incoming officers who
may be elected for the year 1901, another $500.00 could be taken off
the debt."
The Master, Julius W. Tolson, was re-elected for a Third term
and he and his officers were duly installed by the Senior Past
Master, John H. Mills.
THE MASONIC YEAR 1901
On the 2nd of February, 1901, Brother Cornelius W. Okey
departs this life. This Brother served the Lodge as Secretary in
1874 and as Junior 'Varden in 1882. His interest in the Eastern
Star carried him through the line to the highest office in this jurisdiction
that a Brother can obtain, that of Worthy Grand Patron.
He followed Brother L. Cabell Williamson, Past Grand Master,
being elected in 1897. He was a member of Electa Chapter, Order
of the Eastern Star. The Eastern Star Services were held in the
church and then his remains were escorted to Arlington National
Cemetel'y and deposited in the silent tomb by the Lodge.
This jurisdiction responded liberally to the appeal of the
Grand Master of Florida for relief of sufferers in the Jacksonville
fire. The Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia and twentyfive
constituent Lodges contributed Eight Hundred Ninety-Six
Dollars and Thirty-five Cents and were informed that no other
jurisdiction had exceeded this amount. Anacostia Lodge contributed
its share.
Most Worshipful Grand Master, Harry Standiford, and some
of the Grand Officers visited the Lodge in July to witness the
work. There were three meetings in August and three in September
for Degree work.
The minutes of September 16th contains the following:
DEATH OF PRESIDENT McKINLEY
"The Worshipful Master, in a few heartfelt remarks, alluded to the
assassination of Brother William McKinley, President of the United
States and of his recent death, therefrom, on the 13th instant, and in
consideration that the remains would be brought to Washington this
evening, he had concluded to postpone the initiatory work, which had
been set by him for this evening."
(All Lodges were assessed Five Dollars for a Floral piece sent by the
Grand Lodge to the White House)
86 Anacostia Lodge, No. 21, P. A. A. M.,
(The reader will observe that there are very few references to anything
that takes place outside of the Lodge Room that is not connected with the
business of the Lodge. The President was a distinguished Master Mason
and we would expect to find the unhappy event recorded. It amazes one
however, to observe that there is absolutely no mention of the terrific hur~
ricane which visited Washington in September of 1896; of the great blizzards
in the latter part of the century or even of the Spanish American
War.)
In these days, the very able Secretary recorded the names of
all members present and the names of all visitors including their
Lodges and jurisdictions. He had a job on October 15th, the
night of Grand Visitation for there were one hundred eighty-one
present. The report of the Secretary showed that, at the last
Visitation, there were one hundred twenty-two members. Since
then twenty had been raised and four re-instated for a total of
one hundred forty-six. The losses were nine, leaving the membership
one hundred thirty-seven. The Grand Treasurer reported
that Five Hundred Dollars had been paid toward the debt and
that One Thousand Fifty-nine Dollars and Sixty-three Cents remained
in the Treasury.
The Master and his officers received high praise for their
success and for the beautiful decorations in the room. There was
a program which proved to be very interesting to the Brethren
participated in by Reverend Brother Davenport, who gave an
address, Brother Samuel Shields, who sang "The Holy City",
Brother Evander French, who recited "Sheep Washing" and
Brother Warren Tolson who sang "For You".
Another Five Hundred Dollars was paid toward the reduction
of the debt.
THE MASONIC YEAR 1902
At the election held on December 2, 1901, Julius W. Tolson
was again re-elected Worshipful Master. When the Trustees report
showed that 1901 was a banner year, both as to its financial features
and increase in membership, the votes rolled in for Brother
Tolson. In addition to the regular communications he had called
twelve specials.
The Officers were installed by the Senior Past Master Claudius
B. Smith.
A new gas burner "Which was guaranteed to reduce the cost
of gas with improved light" was the subject of debate.
NEW MASONIC TEMPLE
FOR THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA FRATERNITY
We recall that in early April of 1898 a letter was read from
a Brother Howard Perry, Secretary of the General Committee
of the District of Columbia 87
appointed to consider the building of a New Masonic Temple in
the City of Washington. His letter resulted in the appointment of
a committee of three. We do not recall anything further until
1902 when our attention is attracted by a most interesting "Prospectus"
attached to the Secretary's minutes.
"P R 0 S P E C T U S
The Masonic Fraternity of The District of Columbia
WILL HOLD A
FAIR AND EXPOSITION
At Convention Hall- Washington, D. C.
Commencing Monday, April 14, 1902."
This paper shows that the "Fair and Exposition" in April of
'98 was an unqualified success, "the net proceeds, supplimented by
subscriptions of Masonic Bodies and individuals amounting to
EIGHTY-FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS". Seventeen United
States Senators and Sixty-two members of the House of Representatives
head the list of Honorary Members. After this follows
the listing of twenty-three other gentlemen in official life. a member
of the Cabinet, Generals, Rear Admirals, high ranking Department
Heads and others. Following this is One Hundred names
of Washington's most distinguished business men.
Under this Honorary List appears a Finance Committee of
nine and the Board of Control consisting of twenty-six members.
We observe that Brother Julius Tolson represented Electa
Chapter on the Board and that Ruth, Martha, Naomi, Esther,
Bethlehem, Adah and Areme are also represented on the Board
of Control.
Among the fourteen Chairman of Committees we observe the
name of William F. Gude.
* * * * * *
In this year Anacostia Lodge appropriated One Hund.red Dollars
toward the building of the Masonic and Eastern Star Home.
The Past Masters for the first time worked the MlVI Degree
with Adolphus Gude in the East, John H. Mills in the West, Wilbur
S. Dodge in the South, Henry Kuhn, Senior Deacon, James E.
Minnix, Junior Deacon and Alexander Garden as a Steward.
On the occasion of the Grand Visitation ninety-two members
and seventy-two visitors were present. George H. Walker Deputy
Grand Master, acting as Grand Master appeared with the Officers
of the Grand Lodge and Past Grand Masters Noble D. Larner
and David G. Dixon.
Reports were read and the Lodge was congratulated on its
close attention to duty. The Most Worshipful Grand Master,
88 Anacostia Lodge, No. 21, F. A. A. M.,
Malcoln Seaton was absent because of failing health. The Deputy
Grand Master praised Adolphus Gude very highly for the decorations
of palms and flowers which filled the Lodge room. The
program was of some length and we observe that Charles F.
Roberts headed the list of entertainers by singing "Every Dog has
his Day".
Election came on the first day of December. The Brethren
listened to another good report from a very happy committee. The
debt was reduced by five hundred dollars; the lower hall produced
about nine hundred dollars from rents and the membership
had an increase of twenty-one. There were twelve special communications.
Brother Julius W. Tolson was re-elected. He was installed by
Past Master Adolphus Gude.
THE MASONIC YEAR 1903
The year begins with some little trouble and a mild rebuke is
administered. It also begins with several deaths. Brother Carl
F. Banzhaf and William H. Collins, Master in 1874 and 1877, were
buried with masonic honors.
RESOLUTION OF FEBRUARY 15th
ANACOSTIA Royal Arch Masons.
As it was known that the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons
had granted a Charter for the institution of a Chapter to be
known as Anacostia Chapter #12 Royal Arch Masons, the Lodge
adopted a resolution cordially greeting the announcement of granting
the Charter and extending the use of the Hall rent free to
the end of December 1903.
NOBLE DANFORTH LARNER
PAST GRAND MASTER
Brother Larner died suddenly in the New York Avenue
Presbyterian Church at 8:40 o'clock on Thursday, March 19, 1903.
He was born in Washington in 1830 and became a Master Mason
in 1863. He was an honorary member of Anacostia Lodge and
one of its most influential and best of friends. Later in the year
Brother William T. Galliher, Past Master of LaFayette Lodge, No.
19, addressed Anacostia Lodge and referred to the love of Past
Grand Master Larner for No. 21. He stated that his name "can
never be obliterated from the History of Anacostia Lodge, for it
is engrafted on its Charter as the Grand Secretary of the Grand
Lodge December 28,1868." He further stated that Brother Larner's
death occurred on March 19th, and his election to Honorary membership
in Anacostia Lodge February 21, 1881, the two dates corresponding
to the numbers of the Lodges, respectively. His speech
of the District of Columbia 89
and his poem "There is no Death" so impressed the Brethren
that at the next Communication they made him an Honorary Member
to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Brother Lamer.
Most Worshipful Grand Master George H. Walker visited
the Lodge on June 15th to observe the work. He complimented the
Master and officers very highly.
At the Grand Visitation the record discloses that ninetY-Qne
members were present and nearly "three hundred visiting brethren
from this and other jurisdictions". (I don't knO\v where they put
them, but who am I to questiQn the Secretary). In any event this
was certainly a GRAND VISITATION. The membership reaches
178 and the debt is further reduced. The Program is the most
elaborate recorded thus far and is worthy of note.
1. Brass Quartette
2. Address, Rev. Bro. Davenport, "Testimony in
Israel"
3. SQlos, Brother Samuel Shields
4. Brass Quartette
5. Julius Tolson "Mums to the Grand Master"
6. William H. Prosperi, Comic SQlos
7. Brass Quartette
8. Charles J. James, Mums to. Dr. DavenpQrt
9. Charles RQberts, SQlQS
10. Banquet
On December 2nd the night of electiQn, BrQther TQlsQn reminded
the Brethren that he had served five terms in succession
and that it was enQugh for anyQne.
BrQther Charles J. James was elected Worshipful Master. In
accepting, he stated that he had "served twelve years ago as
Senior Warden". Brother William T. Galliher Past Master of
Lafayette Lodge, No.. 19, installed the officers.
Thus ends the historic service of Julius W. Tolson as Master
of Anacostia Lodge. He missed but Qne cQmmunicatiQn in five
years. When he became Master the membership was lOG-when
he gave up the gavel the membership was 178. He was a Joshua
who. planted his feet Qn a path to. victQry and success.
CHARLES J. JAMES
December 2, 1903 December 16,'1904
The first recQrded visit to a Church in a bQdy fQr religious
services Qccurred on Sunday, January 3, 1904. The secretary
records that Reverend Brother Davenport delivered a most inspiring
sermQn.
On January 18th, the revisiQn of the By-laws cQmmanded the
90 Anacostia Lodge, No. '/31, F. A. A. M.,
interest of the Brethren. Many changes were made and we were
glad to observe that a more equitable rate of compensation was
fixed for the Secretary. For a number of years extra compensation
was voted for him at the end of each year. Now instead of
fifty dollars per annum he will receive eighty cents per capita.
The Lodge having voted fora Past Master's Jewel for Brother
Tolson for his great services, the Master with appropriate remarks
pinned it on his breast. Brother Tolson in well chosen words indicated
that this was the proudest moment in his life.
The Lodge received a communication from the Grand Chapter
O.E.S. of the District of Columbia expressing thanks for the use
of the Lodge room on the occasion of their Special Convocation
held on March 11, 1904.
Among those who answered the call of death this year we see
the name Claudius B. Smith, Past Master and Grand Chaplain of
the Grand Lodge. The Lodge assembled on August 20th and was
joined by Washington Naval Chapter #6 R.A.M. and the Officers of
the Grand Lodge. After services conducted by Rev. J. B. Clayton,
the remains were consigned to the silent tomb in the Arlington
Cemetery. The reader will recall that this Brother affiliated with
the Lodge in 1870, became its Secretary in 1873, its Junior Warden
in 1874 and its Master in 1878 to 1880. Thereafter he served as
Treasurer from 1885 to 1901. His impressive invocation as R.W.
Grand Chaplain at the dedication of the Naval Lodge Hall on June
6, 1895 was noted by the Historian of that Lodge.
WE SHALL MEET OVER THERE
In second Samuel we read about a dying Prince, just a child, the son
of David. The mighty King lies prostrate in grief. He neither sleeps or
eats, for in his sorrow there is no time for anything except prayers, moans
and grief. Where is all his power now? He is helpless before the King
of Terrors. Weep, 0 King.
Seven days pass, two eyelids are gently closed, two little hands are
gently folded and one little heart is stilled. The servants in fear go to the
King. They are afraid to speak. He looks up and asks: "Is the child
dead?" And they answer "Yes Sire, he is". Then the King arises-he
washes himself-puts on clean clothes-sits down to food and goes into
the House of the Lord. "The Lord Giveth, the Lord taketh awayBlessed
Be the Name of the Lord". The pale horse has carried off his
darling. He did all he could. God's will be done. Wiping away all
tears he looks up and cries, "I SHALL GO TO HIM". What a picture!
It shows that there is a time when faith should enter the picture and heal
the broken heart. WE SHALL GO TO THEM and know each other
better, when the mists have rolled away.
* * * * *
In this year, Rev. Brother Ernest E. Fisher was appointed
Organist. This Brother as you will see, had rare talents. He
of the District of Columbia 91
demonstrated some just a few brief weeks ago when he appeared
at the Communication called for the purpose of honoring Past
Master Grimes who had served seventy years as a Master Mason.
A large number of Brethren gathered to witness the M.M.
Degree conferred on Brothers Benson McDaniel, T. Arthur Smith
and Edward Shue. The following MASTERS of Constituent
Lodges occupied the stations. Worshipful Masters: N.W. Barksdale,
No. ll-A. C. Shaw, No. 24-A. H. Johnson, No. 22-W. T.
Adams, No. 29-H. Rothschild, No. 25-P. L. Webb, No. 18-M. M.
Blake, No.4.
This was another FIRST for Anacostia Lodge.
This undoubtedly was a pleasant visit for at the next communication
the Association of Worshipful Masters visited in a
body for the Visitation. After their entrance members of Adherence
Lodge, No. 88, of Baltimore, were admitted. The Worshipful
Master of that Lodge was accompanied by his officers and
forty-two members of his Lodge including his Excellency Edwin
Warfield, the Governor of the State of Maryland.
Officers of Adherence Lodge, No. 88
and Past Masters present
George W. Addison ................ Worshipful Master
D. D. Kennedy ................................ Senior Warden
W. O. AbbotL .................................. Junior Warden
W. L. Wise .......................................... Senior Deacon
William Dawson _ .. _._ ..... __ ... ___ ._ ... ____ .. _J unior Deacon
Frank BennetL ...................... _.. ..... Junior Steward
Past Masters
Rozell Berryman James M. Rawlings
Samuel W. Den George W. Slocum
L. M. Duvall James H. Traynor
J. R. Gould T. D. Waters
Following this delegation came the Most Worshipful Grand Master
James A. Wetmore accompanied by the Grand Lodge Officers.
When the Grand Master received the gavel, he invited the Governor
of Maryland to sit with him. He extended a most gracious
welcome to all and thereafter congratulated the Master and Lodge
on its creditable showing for the year. The Program was elaborate.
There was the Brass Quartette, solos, comic songs and
speeches. Thereafter Brother Edwin Warfield addressed the
Brethren. At the conclusion of his remarks, all stood while the
quartette sang "My Maryland."
The Master of Adherence Lodge then addressed the Brethren
and presented to Anacostia Lodge ,from his members, "a beautiful
satin-lined box, containing one solid silver square, one solid silver
compass and one ivory, ebony handled gavel, mounted with silver
92 Anacostia Lodge, No. '21, F. A. A. M.,
and adorned with a gold square and compass, all handsomely
engraved as follows: Presented to Anacostia Ledge, No. 21, by
Adherence Lodge No. 88, of Baltimore, Maryland, November 21,
1904."
The Lodges repaired to the banquet hall where the tables werE:
beautifully decorated in keeping with the decorations in the Lodge
room for which Past Master Adolphus Gude received "Thanks".
The following program had been arranged:
1. Selection by Brass Quartette
2. Solo by Samuel E. Shields, PM, accompanied by E. E. Fisher
3. Address by Rev. W. G. Davenport, Chaplain
4. Selection by Quartette
5. Comic Songs by William H. Prosperi of La Fayette Lodge No. 19
6. Remarks by Rev. Thomas B. Gay of Anacostia Lodge
7. Address by his Excellency Brother Edwin Warfield Governor. At the
conclusion of the address the Quartette rendered the ode "My Maryland"
with all standing
8. Solo, Charles F. Roberts, of Acacia Lodge No. 18
9. Past Master L. M. Duvall of Adherence Lodge
"addressed the Lodge with some exceedingly amusing stories and
interesting remarks."
This brings us to the end of a busy and interesting year. The
membership remains the same one hundred seventy-four, and this
was good because during the year, six had demitted, four passed
away and four were dropped.
The election was held on December 5th and Brother Warren
Tolson was elected as Master. He and his officers were installed
on December 16th by Worshipful Brother Luther R. Ginn, Deputy
Grand Master.
WARREN TOLSON
December 16, 1904 December 18, 1905
All those who took part in the program for the Grand Visitation
received a letter of thanks from the Secretary. We think
that the reader might be interested in one reply:
"Dear Sir and Brother:
It is not due to any condition of our own that we prefer the rose, the
lily of the valley to the deadly nightshade or the homely dandelion; it
is entirely due to the beauty and fragrance of the flowers themselves
whether we are attracted to them or not. Picturing then the analogy, it
is but a logical sequence, a natural blushing of the dawn because the sun
has risen, that we could look upon such an unusual gathering, to-wit:
Visitation by Adherence Lodge, No. 88, of Baltimore, Maryland, in a
body accompanied by his Excellency, Brother Edwin Warfield, the Governor
of the State of Maryland; with the entire line of officers of the
Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia and numerous Brethren from
sister Lodges and various states.
of the District of Columbia 93
We know it is not the shadow of a broken dream, a blossom girded
pathway that shall be turned to a lonely moor, as we watch the Anacostia
Lodge at its working. Any organization which has a system that takes
cognizance of the details of its existence, even to the sending of a letter
of thanks to the Organist, shall certainly leave behind it a marvelous
stretch of crystal light, and shall have before it the largess of Hope's glad
welcoming from the Apostles St. John and the knowledge that in the
shadows of the present standeth God, keeping watch about His own.
Appreciating your letter of thanks, and praying that I may always stand
the offspring of your love sublime, I am
Fraternally yours,
E. E. Fisher."
This Master has the following officers: Edgar R. Balderston,
S.W., Walter B. Fry, J.W., John H. King, Secretary, Adolphus
Gude, P.M. Treasurer, Robert E. Hooe, S.D., William R. Rauchenstein,
J.D., Milton J. Fillius, S.S., William O. Kuhn, J.S. and Henry
W. Eno, Tiler. James E. Minnix appointed Master of Ceremonies,
Rev. Willard G. Davenport, appointed Chaplain, and Rev. E. E.
Fisher appointed Organist.
The Secretary records that after the installation "remarks were
delivered by Bros. Julius W. Tolson, P.M., Adolphus Gude, P.M., and
Charles J. James, P.M., all tending to the encouragement of the
young line of officers of the Lodge."
The year starts with 174 members.
Note of interest: Brother William J. Latimer departed this
life at his home in Maryland on April 20th and he was buried on
April 22nd. The Master advised his Lodge at the next meeting that
he had not been informed of the death of Brother Latimer until
Saturday, when it was too late. He stated however, that Brother
H. T. Adams of Naval Lodge had attended the funeral in connection
with some other body and finding that none of our Lodge members
were present, he placed his own Lambskin Apron upon the casket
and by so doing the fraternity was represented.
The Lodge voted to furnish Brother Adams a new apron and
a warm letter of appreciation under the seal of the Lodge. (Brother
Latimer received his M.M. Degree on August 6, 1873)
It was difficult to secure work in these days and relief is extended
to a number of Brethren.
Visitors however, from far and wide keep coming over to the
Lodge. They must register their names in the registry book with
number and location of Lodge and a number of books must have
been filled to overflowing.
There were nine communications from July 3rd to September
21st in which Edgar R. Balderston served as Acting Master. The
94 Anacostia Lodge, No. 931, F. A. A. M.,
Master was out of the City. The Acting Master does well and receives
many compliments.
Brother Heath broke his right leg and a Brother "sat up" with
him for fourteen nights and for his service received from the Lodge
$28.00 at the prevailing rate of $2.00 per night.
The roof is leaking and the carpet is fifteen years old. The
matter was referred to the Trustees and they reported "that they
had carefully considered the matter but deemed it inadvisable to
go to any unnecessary expense until the debt on the hall is in
better shape than at present." They end their report as follows:
"Hoping the above may be pleasantly received and meet with
the approval of the full membership of the Lodge."
We are fraternally yours,
J. W. Tolson
S. M. Frazier
W. S. Dodge. Trustees.
Past Master Jewels: Brother Walter B. Fry Chairman of a
Special Committee to devise ways and means to obtain jewels, reported
that he had nearly collected the amount necessary to procure
them.
GRAND VISITATION: Fifty-seven members of the Lodge~
Forty-eight visitors and sixteen members of the Grand Lodge are
registered. One came as far away as Northern Star Lodge No. 2673
Newawhand, China.
Most Worshipful Grand Master Lurtin R. Ginn enters with
his officers and takes control of the Lodge. He finds the membership
to be one hundred and eighty-four and all records in good
order. The following entertainment was provided.
Solo __ " __________________________ " ____________ "" ______ Brother Wilson Oliver
Address _ Rcv. Bro. Willard G. Davenport-subject "TIME"
Solo ____________________________ Instrumental Bro. Albert O. Wacker
Songs ___________________ Bro. William Prosperi La Fayette No. 19
Remarks ___ Rev. Bro. E. H. Larmar, Sharon Lodge No. 182
Solo_Instrumental Bro. Smith, second leader Marine Band
Selections ______________ "" _____ " _______________________________ Brass Quartette
The Grand Master addresses the Lodge paying high compliments
to the officers and profound appreciation for the entertainment.
There were seven special communications during the year.
The debt was reduced to $6,000.00.
The estimated value of all property was $17,531.32.
of the District of Columbia 95
The aBBetB over liabilities were $11,531.32 "being a pro-rata
share of each member in the sum of sixty-two dollars, sixty-seven
cents and four hundred and eighty-fourth of a cent". Yes Sir!
Those old Finance Committees were something!
On December 4th new officers were elected and on December
18th they 'were installed by Past Master Julius W. Tolson. Brother
Samuel W. Pumphrey goes in line as the others advance.
EDGAR R. BALDERSTON
December 18, 1905 December 12, 1906
The new Master started with a Special to initiate a class of
candidates on December 21. Five petitions came in on January
15th.
A Past Master's Jewel in this year costs $29.50.
Brother Horace Crosier was injured by a "runaway horse".
Brother William M. King was inj ured when thrown by a horse.
Brother James H. Dony is still the favorite printer. The Lodge
purchases Mackey's Masonic Jurisprudence and Mackey's Parliamentary
Law.
Anacostia Royal Arch Chapter No. 12 desires the Lodge to
appoint a committee to work on "some kind of an enterprise during
the Summer months." A committee of five was appointed but nothing
came of it.
Seventy-six members and forty-one visitors were in attendance
on April 2nd. It was an early Visitation and the following entered
as the music played a stirring march.
Walter A. Brown, Grand Master
F. J. Woodman, Deputy Grand Master
A. B. Coolidge, Senior Grand Warden
H. K. Simpson, Junior Grand Warden
A. W. Johnson, Grand Secretary
James A. Sample, P.G.M., Treasurer
Thomas H. Young, Grand Lecturer
D. W. Skellenger, Grand Chaplain
William H. Singleton, as Grand Marshal
J. Claude Keifer, Senior Grand Deacon
Ben W. M urch, Junior Grand Deacon
John H. Wolf, as Grand Sword Bearer
T. John Newton. Grand Pursurvant
Alex Grant, as Senior Grand Steward
Samuel E. Shields, as Junior Grand Steward
Warren C. Bickford, Grand Tiler.
The Grand Master called for reports and found the member96
Anacostia Lodge, No. '121, P. A. A. M.,
ship to be one hundred and ninety. The Lodge was congratulated
for its showing in a period of about five months.
The following program was provided:
Selection ________________________________________________________ Brass Quartette
Solo ____________________________________________ Bro. Samuel E. Shields, PM
Instrumental Solo ______ Bro. W. T. Smith, 2nd leader Marine
Band
Songs ________________________________________________ Brother VV. H. Prosperi
Address ____ W. H. Singleton, PM King Solomon Lodge No.3
Selection Brass Quartette
Solo Charles F. Roberts, Acacia Lodge No. 18
Instrumental Solo ______________________________ Brother A. O. Wacker
Selection __ .. _______________________ .. ___________________________ Brass Quartette
(Charles F. Roberts would leave Acacia and join Anacostia Lodge
a little later onward and upward in masonry)
After remarks from the Grand Master on Masonic subjects the
Grand Lodge retired and the Lodge was closed.
A number of the members of Anacostia Lodge accompanied
the Master to the ceremony of laying the cornerstone of the office
building for the House of Representatives on the Afternoon of
April 14, 1906. The stone was laid masonically by the Grand Lodge
of the District of Columbia and among those present from Anacostia
Lodge was Brothers Samuel E. Shields, Past Master,
Charles J. James, Past Master, John H. King, Secretary, William
R. Rauchenstein, Senior Deacon and others.
In April, the Grand Master calls for "the relief of our stricken
Brethren of the Pacific Coast." A letter in the files of Anacostia
Lodge states that the Marine Corps Quartermaster Depot at San
Francisco was one of the first buildings to be destroyed by the
earthquake. Brother Charles Sefick of Anacostia Lodge "lost everything
except the clothes he had on". The Lodge responded to the
call of the Grand l\1aster and also forwarded a sum of money to
Brother Sefick.
The Lodge, on October 15, 1906, received official notice of
the Resolution adopted by the Grand Lodge establishing a fund
for the support and maintenance of the Masonic and Eastern
Star Home by levying an annual per capita tax. On the following
day the Home was dedicated. The assessment was 25¢ per
member.
There was a gain of six in the membership for the year. The
debt was reduced to Five Thousand Five Hundred Dollars. There
were twenty-six Conlmunications this year.
On December 3rd, 1906, Brother Walter B. Fry was elected
Worshipful Master and he and his officers were installed on December
12th by Past Master Charles J. James."
of the District of Columbia 97
WALTER B. FRY
December 12, 1906 December 16, 1907
Electa Chapter, No.2, wants to join with the Lodge and the
Royal Arch Masons to do something about that old carpet. A
Committee of five is appointed to meet with them.
Brother John H. Mills, Past Master, was made the first Life
Member of Anacostia Lodge. The fact that there was no provision
in the By-Laws for Life Memberships made no difference,
when they came to consider the valuable service of this Brother,
who had been faithful to his Lodge since 1870.
CORNERSTONE, NEW MASONIC TEMPLE
Thirty-six melnbel's attended the ceremonies of the laying
of the cornerstone of the New IVlasonic Temple at Thirteenth and
H Streets, Northwest. Headed by Brother Wilbur S. Dodge, Past
Master as Marshall, the Master, his officers and members in
columns of fours under the command of the Grand Marshal proceeded
to the place of the laying of the cornerstone. The following
members were there:
Walter B. Fry Samuel H. Burn Samuel Robinson
William R. Rauchenstein Harry S. Burrier John H. Cook
Harry E. Scherrer James W. Jordon John T. Hanrahan
John H. King William E. Dunnington John M. Guethler
George H. Copes Adolphus Gude Harold E. Wheeler
Arthur C. Berauist Charles J. James Emil Cinyburg
James W. Marbury William H. Scott James E. Morrison
Wilbur H. Lawrence Charles A. Stevens William M. King
F. M. Glickers Eugene E. Thompson Robert S. White
Wilbur S. Dodge Eugene W. Fugett F. L. Guckers, 352, Pa.
Horace Crosier William P. Flood William Holtz, 364, N.Y.
Benjamin N. Taylor Harry E. Eno W. R. Adams, 439, Ohio
Five of these members were with the Washington Commandery
No.1, Demolay Commandery No.4, and one with with
the Grand eha pteI' of the Royal Arch Masons.
In this year, ribbons for officers .i ewels were acquired to take
the place of hangers which inj ured the clothing.
Francis J. Woodman, Most Worshipful Grand Master and his
officers visited the Lodge on November 4th. He found that the
books had been neatly and correctly kept in accordance with Grand
Lodge regulations; that the membership was one hundred-eightyeight
and that the financial picture was bright.
The Program was elaborate-selection by the orchestra, vocal
quartette. instrumental solo, vocal solo a1).d then an address by
Brother George E. Whitehouse. of Zetland Lodge of Boston. His
subject was "Being a Man". He was greatly applauded and then
congratulated by the Grand Master. "A smoker was indulged
98 Anacostia Lodge, No. 21, F. A. A. M.,
in by those who enj oyed the weed" and after considerable time
had been enjoyed in social relations, the program was continued.
Selection by the vocal quartette, solo by our Brother Charles
F. Roberts, then a member of Acacia Lodge, selection by the orchestra,
comic solo, selection by the vocal quartette and a selection by
the orchestra.
After gifts of flowers, the Grand Officers retired. Total cost
of entertainment was Thirty-two Dollars and Fifty Cents.
At the end of the year the membership was one hundred
ninety, the same as was reported at the close of the previous year.
The increases amounted to fifteen and the losses were fifteen.
William R. Rauchenstein was elected Worshipful Master on
December 2, 1907 and installed on December 16, by Augustus B.
Collidge, Most Worshipful Deputy Grand Master as a Special
Meeting called for 6: 45 P.M.
WILLIAM R. RAUCHENSTEIN
December 16, 1907 December 21, 1908
Most Worshipful Brother Bruce Donaldson was summoned to
the presence of our Supreme Grand Master on November 22, 1907.
His Memorial Letter was read to the Lodge. This venerable and
venerated Brother was born in Loudon County, Virginia, October
11, 1826. He was the first President of the Masonic Temple Association
and his last appearance in the Grand Lodge was on the
occasion of the cornerstone laying on June 9, 1907. He was the
Grand Master who signed the Charter of Anacostia Lodge.
At the new Master's first stated communication on December
16th, the Past Masters conferred the Master Mason's Degree with
Brother Julius W. Tolson as Master.
The first recorded instant of extending an invitation to other
bodies and their ladies is found in the minutes of February 3, 1908,
when Anacostia Chapter No. 12, R.A.M. invited the Lodge members
and their ladies to an entertainment in the Lodge room. A
like invitation was extended to Electa Chapter, No.2, Order of the
Eastern Star.
As you may have observed, the Secretary, Brother King, was
a letter writer. A paragraph from his letter to Asylum Lodge, No.
57, Stonington, Connecticut, thanking the Lodge for extending a
cordial welcome to one of our members reads as follows:
"Brother Randall's visit to your Lodge manifests that he had retained
the lessons which he had learned about eleven years ago, of 'How good
and how pleasant it is for Brethren to dwell together in Unity.' Hence
in Faith he sought your Asylum, with Hope he knocked at its door, and
by your Fraternal Charity, he was admitted within its folds to your loving
care and protection. Thus mote it always Be."
of the District of Columbia 99
The following Certificate was received from Brother Bertram
W. Cole from Rio De Janeiro, Brazil. It was so beautiful, unique
and artistic that it was ordered to be framed and hung upon the
wall.
Dominion of Neptunus-Rex
Ruler of The Raging Main
To All Sailors Wherever Ye May Be. And to all Mermaids, Sea Serpents,
Whales, Sharks, Porpoises, Dolphins, Skates, Eels, Suckers, Crabs, Polywogs
and other Living Things in the Sea
Greeting:
Know Ye: That on this 5th day of January, 1908, in Latitude 00,00
and Longitude 20,38 W There appeared within the limits of Our Royal
Domain the
U.S.S. New Jersey
Bound southward for the Straits of Magellan and Pacific Ports
Be It Remembered
That the said vessel and Officers and Crew thereof have been inspected
and passed by Ourself and Our Royal Staff.
And Be It Known: By all ye Sailors, Mariners, Landlubbers and others
who may be honored by his presence, That
Bertram W. Cole, Hosp. Std., U.S.N.
Having been found worthy to be numbered as One of Trusty SheJIbacks
has been gathered to our fold and duly initiated into the Solemn Mysteries
of the Ancient Order of the Deep.
Be it Further Understood: That by the Virtue of the Powers invested
in me, I do Hereby Command all my subjects to show due honor and
respect to him Whenever he may enter our Realm.
Disobey this Order under penalty of Our Royal Displeasure.
Given under our hand and seal, this
fifth day of January, 1908
NEPTUNUS REX.
(SEAL)
Attest
Davy Jones
His Majesty's Scribe."
Brother King wrote a lengthy and interesting letter to Brother
Cole and expressed the wish that he might can on Brother Charles
Sefiek at the Quartermasters Office in California and Brother Emil
Cinzburg, Gunnery Sergeant at the Marine Barracks, Cavite, P. I.
(A complete description of the initiation was forwarded to
the Lodge by Brother Cole.)
The Lodge was advised of the reports relative to the unsafe
condition of the building. The District Building Inspectors were
brought in and they refuted the rumor. (Many of our readers will
recall how that third floor would sway when the room was crowded.
The writer cannot help but believe that our fire in later years was
a good thing. After the fire, the third floor and tower were removed.)
Most Worshipful Past Grand Master, Lurtin R. Ginn, ob100
Anacostia Lodge, No. 931, F. A. A. M.,
served the work of the Lodge in March and expressed much satisfaction
with it.
A great host of visitors came over on April 20th, numbering
fifty-nine including members from Alabama, Massachusetts, New
York, Rhode Island, New Jersey, West Virginia, Virginia and
Maryland. It was the usual and annual Grand Visitation.
The Most Worshipful Grand Master, Augustus B. Collidge,
found the Lodge in a most excellent condition and stated that it
had done more work than any other Lodge in the jurisdiction. The
entertainment must have been delightful. Those taking part in
the Choir were singers well known to us, Brother Charles F.
Roberts, Milton J. Fillius, Samuel W. Pumphrey and Arthur L.
Simpson. Others on the Program were Adolphus Gude, Past
Master, Reverend Brother George E. Whitehouse and Brother Gratz
E. Dunkum. An interesting subject was used by the Speaker of
the evening Rev. Bro. George E. Whitehouse, "We Move Anything
!"
An interesting event occurred on May 18th, 1908. Brother Eugene
E. Thompson addressed the Lodge referring to the dropping
of a distinguished Past Master for his non-payment of dues. He
made a motion that the Lodge re-instate the Brother and with his
motion, he offered a donation of Twenty-five Dollars for the relief
of the Brother. The Secretary opposed the offer on the ground
that it would set a bad precedent. Then Brother Samuel M.
Frazier made an amendment to the motion and added another
Twenty-five Dollars. That Fifty Dollars for the Brother's relief
was just too much to turn down. (Right or wrong, I am glad that
they did it, for the record shows that the Brother was in need, too
proud to ask for help, too poor to pay up and ask for a demit. It
might be a good idea to make some careful investigation before
we drop a Brother just because he owes a few dollars.)
On July 6, 1908, Brother Charles F. Roberts files an application
for affiliation. He will be Grand Master when the writer
reaches the East in 1924.
The Lodge receives a letter from Fredericksburg Lodge, No.
4. thanking the Brethren for their donation toward a Masonic
Memorial Temple to the "peerless George Washington". This
memorial was started "to make the home of his boyhood days a
Mecca for the Masons of the entire world, where all members of
the craft can come and do honor to his memory and tread upon the
ground where Washington, LaFayette, the Mercers and other great
Masons have trod in the days gone by."
The Past Masters conferred the M M Degree on July 16th with
Adolphus Gude as Master.
It is the 16th of July and fifty-two members of the Lodge are
of the District of Columbia 101
present with eight Past Masters. Thirty-two visitors are also
registered as present. All have assembled in the middle of a hot
month to see the Past Masters confer the Degree on five candidates.
All through the summer work goes on. There are four communications
in August. ::\1any Lodges are called off until September
but not Anacostia. Brother Charles Stevens wants a piano for
the lower hall and he gets it. There is talent in this Lodge and
the entertainment for the next few years will be something
to attract crowds.
On the 13th of November, they put on a Minstrel Show and
Dance which was the talk of the town. The hall was taxed to its
capacity. Gude Brothers provided the decorations and Brother
F. H. Kramer sent two hundred and fifty roses for distribution
during the singing of the song entitled "Roses".
Brother Adolphus Gude continued to think about the fun he
had and at a later communication moved that the show be reproduced
and his motion carried.
On December 7th, the Master was congratulated and he in
turn presented the Secretary with a handsome Fountain Pen.
The Brethren then prepared their ballots and Brother Samuel
W. Pumphrey was elected as Master. The Debt was reduced by
One Thousand Dollars and the membership is up to two hundred
and thirteen. On December 21st, Past Master Edgar R. Balderston
installed the new officers at a Special called for 6: 30 P.M.