Chapter VII

"It is He that silleth upon the Circle of the Earth"
~Isaiah 40-22
Plautus wrote 130 Comedies-there are twenty left.
Eschylus wrote 1 00 Dramas~there arc nineteen left.
Varro wrote the Biographies of 700 Romans-none left.
Tacitus wrote 30 books-none left.
Quntilan wrote "The Corruption of Eloquence"-Lost.
Dion Cassuis wrote 80 books-twenty left.
Beosius wrote a history and it is lost.
"The Great Light", although every effort was made to destroy it, comes
down through the ages intact-39 Books of the Old and 27 Books of the
New Testament.
Thousands of years ago Isaiah told his people that the Earth was round
but it was not until after America was discovered that Magellan proved
it. This Book contains all truth.
In London you can still sec a bill of expenses for the burning of
Latimer and Ridley. They made a fire and that fire's light shone all
around the world. That fire demonstrated that truth and goodness cannot
be destroyed. The items are listed as follows:
Cartage for four loads of wood ____________________________________ 2 s
One load of fir f agots . __ . _____ ._. ____ . __ .. ___ ._ .. _____ .. _____ . ________ .. ____ ._.3 s 4
Item a post ____ .. ___________ . __________ . ______________ . ____________ . ___________ 1 s 4
Item two chains ________ . _____ ._ .. ___ . _ . ____ ._. _______________ 3 s 4
Item two staples . ____ . __________ . ____ . ____ .. _ . __ . ___ . ________ .. _______ . 6
Item four laborers .... ___ . ___ ._. __ .. ____ .. 2 s 8
We may not think it, but the bad things are likewise hard to destroy.
We utter a slander-it comes back. We lie and cheat-it comes back.
We betray a trust-it comes back. "With what measure ye mete, it shall
be measured to you again". We have been given a very lovely picture of
how the site for Jerusalem was chosen.
Two Brothers had adjoining farms. One had a large family and the
other lived alone. The brother with the large family said to himself,
''There is my brother with no family, he must be very lonely. I'll try
to cheer him up by helping him along with some sheaves from my
barn. In the night I'll set some over in his barn and say nothing
about it." The other Brother said to himself, "There is my brother
with such a large family." ''I'll put a part of my sheaves over into his
barn and say nothing about it." So they did, again and again and
neither could understand how the sheaves in number remained the
same. One night they met, each with sheaves in his arms and the
story unfolded. That sacred spot was chosen as the site of Jerusalem.
We have a sacred spot where we can gather in one large circle about an
altar. It is pleasant to reflect upon our glorious privilege in being able to
do so. Within that Circle the cares of external life may be forgotten for a
little while, as we clasp hands as Brothers.
102
of the District of Columbia 103
SAMUEL W. PUMPHREY
December 21, 1908 December 16, 1909
At the regular stated communication on the same night, December
21st, the Entertainment Committee reported a profit of
Sixty-eight Dollars and Seventeen Cents on the show. This Committee
was ahvays on the job. At a communication in March,
when there was no work, the Master called for an impromptu
entertainment. Brother "Vilson Oliver sang "Sunbonnet Sue" and
"When I marry you". Brother Milton Fillius sang "Dear Heart"
and "Don't go in the Water Tonight" and Brother Charles F.
Roberts sang "Good-Bye" and "Old Black Joe". Brother Charles
Stevens rendered several of his selections impersonating the Irish,
Dutch and Negro on the Banjo. That's how it used to be.
A joint excursion to Chesapeake Beach with Electa Chapter,
No.2, Order of the Eastern Star and Anacostia Chapter, Royal
Arch Masons was arranged and proved to be successful. This is
the first excursion for a long, long \vhile.
FIRE
On May 3, 1909, the Lodge closed on account of fire. A leakage
of gas around the Altar light was on fire and it was necessary to
have a fireman come with an axe to open the 11001'.
Most Worshipful Grand Master, Henry K. Simpson, visited
the Lodge on June 21, 1909. He preferred to sit on the side line
and mingle with the Brethren. He enjoyed the work of the Lodge.
They worked on through the summer and when the Grand Master
came, accompanied by all of his Grand Officers to pay an official
visit, he found the Lodge room beautifully decorated and filled
to capacity.
It was a very large gathering also that came to see the Third
Degree on September 29th. Visitors came from far and wide. At
this meeting, the Excursion Committee reported a profit of One
Hundred Fifty-six Dollars and Fifteen Cents. It was distributed
on the following basis: Electa Chapter with two hundred thirtynine
members received $72.89; Anacostia Lodge with one hundred
ninety-four members received $59.16; and Anacostia Chapter,
Royal Arch Masons with seventy-nine members received $24.10.
In October, the Lodge voted to put down a new carpet before
Grand Visitation. The old Brussels had had constant use for
nearly twenty years.
The Trustees reported at the next communication that the
most reasonable estimate came from Moses and Sons-322 yards at
$1.12% per yard. They bought Four Hundred Dollars worth and
covered the ante rooms also.
104 Anacostia Lodge, No. 921, F. A. A. M.,
GRAND VISITATION
Crowded and Beautiful-new carpet and glorious decorations.
From Maryland, Virginia, Florida, Indiana, Michigan, New Mexico,
Tennessee, they come with forty-one others from Lodges in this
jurisdiction. Henry K. Simpson, Most Worshipful Grand Master,
and his officers are received with spirited music. This year the
Lodge had a fine increase and the membership reaches two hundred
and nineteen.
It was not unusual to have forty to fifty visitors for MM Degrees
and Grand Visitations.
The Grand Master was very pleased with all reports and
stated that the financial condition of Anacostia Lodge was superior
to any Lodge in the Jurisdiction and that the Grand Lodge was
proud to have Anacostia Lodge as one of its twenty-eight Lodges.
A program which cheered the hearts of all was put on by the now
famous Entertainment Committee.
In November, "Thanks" was voted for Electa Chapter for
new curtains "which enhansed the beautiful appearance of the
Lodge room.
The old matter of salary keeps coming up. They keep the
Secretary busy with new ideas. The per capita was alright until
the membership gets large, so the eighty-five cents per capita was
changed to One Hundred Dollars per annum and now in 1909, they
propose sixty-five cents per member, on the membership at the
close of each year. The Tiler is to be the recipient of Two Dollars
for each meeting except those called for funerals.
On December 6th, Brother George F. Copes was elected as
Master and he and his officers were installed by Brother William
R. Rauchenstein on December 16th, 1909.
GEORGE H. COPES
December 16, 1909 December 5, 1910
The new Master made his appointments and then called on
Reverend Brother William Bird of Latrobe Lodge, No. 165, Baltimore,
Maryland, who gave a very interesting address on Masonic
sUbjects.
Petitions continue to come in and the officers will have plenty
of work and plenty visitors come to see it. The Lodge and Electa
Chapter have agreed to have a "Fair" and to hold another excursion.
The Master has Brothers Wilbur H. Lawrence, Charles F.'
Roberts and Milton J. Fillius in his line and these gentlemen will
keep things humming. The first thing is to make the room more
attractive and they do it.
of the District of Columbia 105
The Master urged all members to sit for a photograph so
they might be displayed on the walls of the Lodge. We do not
recall any such display, but we are happy to report that some
pictures were taken. The idea of having pictures is good, for one
is very quickly forgotten. To obtain pictures for this volume is
going to be a monumental task. Many we have cannot be identified.
Put names and history on back of pictures.
Brother Milton J. Fillius, Chairman of a Joint Committee for
a "Fair" held on the 16th of May, reported that it was successful.
In connection with the Fair a letter was received from Past Grand
Master, James A. Sample, including a donation towards the liquidation
of the debt on the Hall. He was the Grand Master who had
laid the cornerstone and dedicated the building to Masonry. By
unanimous vote he was elected to Honorary Membership.
The report on the Receipts and Expenditures was not made
until September 5th. The Gross Receipts were $2,007.87 and the
total expenditures amounted to $416.67 leaving a net balance of
$1,591.00. Electa Chapter received $795.60 and the Lodge received
the same amount.
One Thousand Dollars were appropriated toward the liquidation
of the debt and Five Hundred Dollars towards improvements
to the building.
Most Worshipful Grand Master, George C. Ober and his officers
were welcomed on November 7th. He found that fourteen
new members had been added to the rolls during the year, that
one had demitted, three had died, six suspended for non-payment
of dues and that five had been rejected. The membership was
two hundred and twenty-five. Three Thousand Five Hundred
Fifty-five Dollars had been expended and over One 'rhousand Dollars
remained in the Treasury. He was very happy with the
condition of the Lodge, and indicated that "The present Lodge
room, although as commodious as any in the city, would, no doubt,
in the near future be deemed inadequate, and a larger and more
elaborate one be built and he hoped to live to contribute, thereto."
The orchestra played-the quartette, composed of the Master,
George H. Copes, Brothers Samuel W. Pumphrey, Past Master,
Charles F. Roberts, Junior Warden, Milton J. Fillius, Senior Deacon
sang "Forsaken". Brother Arthur L. Simpson sang "I envy
the Bird" by Victor Herbert and "Absent" by Metcalf. Brother
Samuels played a solo on the .comet. Brother William Scantlebury
sang "The Stein Song" by Bullard and "Grandma's Days."
The quartette then sang "Life's Dream". To top it off, Reverend
Brother Samuel W. Graffiin of Sharon Lodge, No. 182 of Maryland,
entertained with "Humorous Remarks."
The Grand Master was thrilled, he spoke of the handsome display
of the National colors and the elaborate display of autumn
106 Anacostia Lodge, No. F. A. A. M.,
foliage and fall flowers seldom seen in any Lodge room. After
a period of fellowship, the parting hour came. You can hardly
blame them for coming over in large crowds.
On December 5, 1910, a very prosperous year came to its end.
The debt still owing on the building is Two Thousand Five Hundred
Dollars. The Master takes his leave and Brother Wilbur H.
Lawrence is elected and the retiring Master, George H. Copes
installed the officers.
WILBUR H. LAWRENCE
December 5, 1910 December 11, 1911
At the beginning of this year, and through Brother Charles
F. Roberts, Senior Warden, Brother Kenton N. Harper, Past
Master of Naval Lodge and Historian of the Grand Lodge presented
a sketch of the Old Blacksmith and Wheelwright Shop in
which the Lodge was instituted. The Lodge ordered the sketch
to be suitably inscribed and framed. The Lodge also purchased
two Histories of Masonry in the District of Columbia.
Brother Harper, at a later date, also presented two photographs,
one of the old public schoolhouse in which the Lodge held
its meetings for ten years and the other, the present Hall. (Whatever
became of them?) They were all put in one frame and hung
upon the wall.
The Grand Visitation came early in March of 1911. J. Claude
Keiper, Most Worshipful Grand Master, accompanied by his officers
were received in a very lovely Lodge Hall. The Grand Master
stated that he realized that an examination of the records so early
in the year could hardly be of much benefit. He thought it might be
better to have some other procedure than annual Grand Visitations.
After an elaborate program, Reverend Brother F. L. Bardens
of Mitchell Lodge, No. 296, Pennsylvania, was introduced as
the speaker for the evening. The Grand Lodge retired after
spending some time in fraternal fellowship.
On May 1, 1911, the Lodge unanimously agreed that at least
twenty-five Brethren in addition to the officers, should be present
at every funeral and that a notice to attend was to be understood
as an actual summons. (This was later amended by striking out
the word "summons" and inserting "request", as it is only the
Master who can issue a summons).
The Secretary advised the Lodge that he had a portion of
the corn, wine and oil used in the dedication of the old schoolhouse
in 1881, sealed in small bottles and labeled. He stated further
that Brother William R. Rauchenstein had constructed a suitable
case for them and that he wanted to present the case and
bottles to the Lodge. The handsome gift was received and the
of the District of Columbia 107
Secretary and Brother Rauchenstcin received a rising vote of
thanks.
The Secretary also made known that he was about to take
a vacation, the first in twenty-five years.
In the month of August, it is recorded that a visiting Brother
opened the Lodge with prayer, as Acting Chaplain. This Brother
had visited many times before and the Master thanked him for
all the service he had rendered to Anacostia Lodge. He was a
member of Herman Lodge of New Jersey, destined to be Grand
High Priest of Royal Arch Masons in this jurisdiction when
Brother Charles F. Roberts, was Grand Master, and this writer
was the Master of Anacostia Lodge. At this stated communication
in August, Brother Simon Bube was made an Honorary Member
of Anacostia Lodge, No. 21.
PAST MASTER JOHN H. MILLS
This Brother died at Providence Hospital on September 11th
and was buried in Congressional Cemetery with the rites of the
Craft on September 13th, 1911. He affiliated with Aanacostia
Lodge on August 15, 1870. He petitioned Hiram Lodge, No. 10 on
April 15, 1864 and became a Master Mason on September 9, 1864.
He served that Lodge as Senior Deacon in 1865 and Senior Warden
1866 to 1869. He demitted and was elected in Anacostia Lodge
No. 21. He served as Master for the years 1871, 1872, 1873 and
for the year 1895. At the time of his death, he was the senior
member on the roll. This Brother had a picture of George Washington
clothed in his Masonic apron and his widow presented it to
the Lodge. (Along with many other gifts, it has long since disappeared.)
NEW SCOTTISH RITE TEMPLE
The cornerstone of the Temple was laid in the afternoon of
October 18th, 1911, and the officers and a number of members of
Anacostia Lodge were present for this historic occasion. Past
Grand Master, Harrison Dingman, visited the Lodge in November.
At the election in December, Brother Charles F. Roberts received
the majority of votes cast for Master. On December 7th, Past
Grand Master Henry K. Simpson, installed the officers. Thereafter,
the Past Grand Master was invited to present a Past Master's
Jewel to Brother Wilbur H. Lawrence. In a line, two by two, the
Brethren proceeded to a banquet in the lower hall.
CHARLES F. ROBERTS
December 7, 1911 December 6, 1912
Brother Simon Bube affiliates with Anacostia Lodge. Brother
Edward T. Davis was elected as Organist.
108 Anacostia Lodge, No. 21, F. A. A. M.,
The Master believed in entertainment and there was plenty
of it during the year. A capacity crowd filled the Lodge room on
March 18th with many visitors from this and other jurisdictions.
It was Past Masters' Night. When the Past Masters had accomplished
the purpose for which the evening was set aside, Reverend
Brother S. M. Graffiin of Sharon Lodge, No. 182, Maryland, addressed
the Brethren and he was followed by Reverend Brother
Willard G. Davenport, the Chaplain.
Thereafter, all repaired to the banquet hall.
A constant visitor throughout the years is Brother Thomas H.
Young, Grand Lecturer.
In this year consideration was given to electric wiring of the
building. The first bid was Four Hundred Ninety-one Dollars.
The job was completed for Four Hundred Forty-nine Dollars.
Reverend Brother Davenport, Rector of Emmanuel Church, received
congratulations on having served that Church for a quarter
of a century. Brother Adolphus Gude gave a very interesting
narrative of a trip to Los Angeles, California with the Shriners.
Another host of visitors came over to see the M. M. Degree
conferred by Masters of other Lodges in the District of Columbia,
Thirteen Masters and the Most Worshipful Grand Master filled
all stations and places. It was a grand night to be remembered
and talked about for a long while.
They had a "cantaloupe feast" in August. Brother Alfred T.
Grimes brought in two crates off his farm and at the close of the
Lodge he turned them over to the Brethren and "What a Feast".
The communication of October 21st brought forty-four visitors
to Grand Visitation. The Grand Lodge entered to the strains of
an inspiring march "Motor King Serenade, Moonlight." The Most
Worshipful Grand Master, Ben W. Murch, was accompanied by
the Grand Lodge Officers and Brother James A. Sample Past Grand
Master. The Lodge was congratulated on its record and on having
a membership of two hundred twenty-two. The orchestra then
played "Little Boy in Blue"; the vocal quartette sang "Four Jolly
Blacksmiths" and H Absent" and Brother Willard G. Davenport
gave an address on "Masonry". This was followed by a solo.
"The Garden of My Heart" followed by an encore entitled "I Don't
Recall". The final soloist sang "Let Me Call You Sweetheart" with
an encore "When I Make Mandy Johnson Mine". Another address
followed by Brother Edwin C. Snyder of Temple Lodge , No. 32,
whose subject was "Are you a Mason or Just a Member of the
Lodge?".
After expressing gratitude for a delightful evening, the Grand
Master and his officers retired to the strains of "The Great Divide".
of the District of Columbia 109
Brother Adolphus Gude was then thanked for the handsome manner
in which he had decorated the room.
On December 2, 1912, Brother Milton J. Fillius was elected
Master and he and his officers were installed on December 6, 1912.
MILTON J. FILLIUS
December 6, 1912 December 10, 1913
The Master and his officers were installed by Past Grand
Master, Lurtin R. Ginn. On tqis December night, the record shows
that there were seven surviving members who had received their
first light in Masonry in "The Old Blacksmith Shop"; Brothers
Jasper Scott, John H. King, Peter C. Garden, Julius W. Tolson,
Henry Kuhn, Frederick C. Pope and Christian Anderson.
In the installation of these officers, something of interest was
added as the Installing Officer also used the charges delivered by
the Patriot Paul Revere when he was Grand Master of the Grand
Lodge of Massachusetts.
The Lodge was closed and the following took place in the
Banquet Hall where the Ladies had prepared a collation. Reverend
Brother John E. Fort asked the Blessing; the Grand Master addressed
the brethren on the need for completing the Masonic and
Eastern Star Home; Brother Simon Bube pinned a Past Master's
jewel on the breast of Past Master Charles F. Roberts with appropriate
remarks and Brother Roberts responded; Brother Albert
E. Beck presented a bouquet of thirty American Beauty roses to
the Secretary for his thirty years of service and the Secretary
responded. Brothers Charles A. Stevens and Charles F. Roberts
entertained with solos and duets. They then seated the Ladies,
who had served them, and vied with each other in seeing who could
render the most agreeable service to them. All of this was published
in The Washington Star.
At the following communication, Past Grand Master, Lurtin
R. Ginn, was made an Honorary Member. The Secretary stated
that "in all of my years of attendance at installations of officers
I have never heard the admonitions to the officers so licidately and
comprehensively delivered."
The petitions came in and the Lodge keeps busy putting on
degree work. In the midst of the work they find time for "smokers"
and musical entertainment by their own talented singers
who were always ready for sociability and merriment.
One of the seven from the Blacksmith Shop days, Frederick
C. Pope, was buried on March 9, 1913.
The meeting of April 21st witnessed' Degree Teams in action
and the Secretary lists the names of those present and the Lodge
110 Anacostia Lodge, No. 1JJ1, F. A. A. M.,
from which they came. Anacostia Lodge members present, eightyfive;
Visitors frOln sister Lodges, one hundred fifty-one; and Visitors
from other jurisdictions, seventeen. Total present, two hundred
fifty-three.
The television and radio were not around to keep the boys
home in 1912. They came to Lodge for a pleasant evening and they
received what they were looking for.
Money was borrowed to improve the building and a Stereopti·
con Lantern and Slides are purchased for Seventy-five Dollars.
Past Masters of other Lodges come over to confer the Master
Mason's Degree in September.
In October the brethren were very impressed with the Speakers.
Brother John Cook gave the story of the Battle of Gettysburg
and Antietam. Brother Adolphus Gude told of his Foreign Tour,
of wine vaults containing millions of bottles of champagne and
vast casks holding thousands of gallons of beer. Reverend Brother
G. LeRoy White, Pastor of Anacostia M.E. Church said that he had
seen all of the things described by Brother Gude except the wine
and beer vaults. He invited the members to visit his Church in a
body and his invitation was accepted.
The Lodge adopted a Resolution thanking the Officers, Past
Matrons and Past Patrons of Electa Chapter, No.2, Order of the
Eastern Star for the gift of a beautiful Oak Altar.
Most Worshipful Grand Master, Charles E. Baldwin, and his
officers were welcomed on November 3rd. The Grand Master extended
a welcome to Past Grand Master and Right Emminent Commander
of Knights Templars, Henry K. Simpson, to James A.
Sample, Past Grand Master and to Adolphus Gude, Grand High
Priest of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons. The Lodge
has a merrlbership of two hundred thirty-six.
After remarks by the Grand Master, cigars were passed out
and the members spent some time in sociability. Then followed
the program and it was A PROGRAM. The best of the evening,
however, was an Address by Judge Arthur B. Hayes, of Weber
Lodge, No. 6 of Ogden, Utah, "showing that Masonic traditions
were known to the Ancients, long ago and prior to the days of
King Solomon. He also treated on patriotism, love for our homes
and veneration and protection to the women of America." In part
he said:
"In the esoteric sense there is much of lofty beauty and wonderful meaning
in the word fellowship as taught by our order. Fellowshi p of fraternity
means something more than the mere gathering of men within the secret
chambers of their order; more than lip service; more than the outward
observance of the obligations of brotherhood. The true fellowship of
Masonry is greater and higher than these; it has a deeper meaning and significance.
It has its dwelling place within the soul of man and finds its utof
the District of Columbia 111
terance only when the soul commands. It is an inspiration to loftier ideals
and nobler thoughts and deeds. It is the gentleness of man in living expression,
the kindliness of creative intention showing forth amidst the
darkness of man's baser nature. It is that unconscious ruling power within
the heart of man which gives vital force to those writings upon the tablets
of stone, those mystic symbols proclaiming from Sinai's burning brow the
edicts of the moral law. It is the foundation of the highest civilizations
in the world-aye, it is the essence of the teachings of that One to whom
the ages bow, to whom man gives reverence and to whose laws all nature
yields obedience.
It reaches out its arms of charity and good will and brotherly kindness
to the rich and poor, the high and low and placing them upon the level,
joins their hands in that clasp of humanity which makes all conditions
one. It gives courage to the wavering, strength to the weak, vigor to the
faltering, hope to the despondent, cheer to the afflicted, help to the needy
and clothes mankind with some of the attributes of Deity. Such is true
Masonic fellowship.
Ever since the world was peopled with embodied intelligence this spirit
of brotherhood has been the mightiest factor in the uplifting and advancement
of the human race. And men bound together by this tie of common
brotherhood have shaped the destinies of Nations. So today this same
spirit should be and is the controlling force binding men together to accomplish
the full objects and aims of Masonry. And what are these?
Not merely personal, although the personal good accomplished is beyond
estimate.-But our order, beside the personal virtues of honor, integrity,
helpfulness, brotherhood, sobriety and purity of character, teachers love
of home and country. No man loves his home who is not devoted to it;
neither does a man love his country who is not devoted to its welfare."
These are several paragraphs from a rather long speech. They
liked it.
On December 1st the officers for 1914 were elected and the
installation took place on December 10th. Past Grand Master,
George C. Ober, was the Installing Officer.
The Lodge assembled for the purpose as above stated and the
Master welcomed the Distinguished Guest and then declared a
recess for mutual communication one with the other. He then
thanked the Lodge for faithful attendance and stated that the
membership was two hundred thirty-nine, with four deaths during
the year. The Past Grand Master then addressed the Lodge and
thereafter installed the officers.
ALFRED T. GRIMES
December 10, 1913 December 10, 1914
"AI" forgot to read the Charter on the night that he was installed
and he received a letter from the Grand Secretary instructing
him to do so. "AI" didn't like that ancient writing so he directed
Brother Charles F. Roberts to read it. The minutes dwell upon
social conversation, some joke-telling, much singing by Brothers
112 Anacostia Lodge, No. 21, F. A. A. M.,
Roberts, Stevens, Fillius, Simpson, Scantlebury, Willialnson, and
Donnelly and reference is made to the "Wall-flowers" who smoked
cigars, which were in ample supply. The Secretary does not mention
those Spittoons, but I can tell you that they were certainly
being used in those days, and much to the disgust of the Ladies of
the Eastern Star.
At the communication in March, the Master retired early
stating that "on account of the street car service being out of
commission, he would have a long distance to walk home". It was
miles away but this young farmer could do it, and perhaps those
long walks are the thing which has kept him going all these years.
On March 14th, 1914, the Grand Secretary forwarded an extract
from a communication from a prominent undertaker. "The
automobile as a nleans of transportation at funerals is fast taking
the place of the horse." Serious situations were developing when
some came in carriages and some came in automobiles. The two
wouldn't mix.
Members of M. M. Parker Lodge, No. 27, King Solomon No. 31,
and Washington Centennial No. 14, assisted in conferring Degree
work in April.
They wore the piano out with their sociability and Brother
Charles F. Roberts was directed to take the matter up with the
other tenants. Electa Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star agreed
to buy one at a cost of Two Hundred Seventy-five Dollars, and the
Lodge and Royal Arch Masons, paying each their third at the rate
of Five Dollars per month. Offer was accepted.
The Masonic Historian, Kenton N. Harper, Past Master and
Secretary of Naval Lodge, No.4, and Worthy Grand Patron of
the Eastern Star departs this life in 1913.
On August 3rd, Brother Charles F. Roberts is Acting Secretary
of Anacostia Lodge. Brother John King has lost his wife. The
Brethren extend their sympathy by a very appropriate Resolution
and a Floral Tribute. Sickness, death and poverty. All through
volumes of history, Brother John H. King has been recording these
sad events and now he bows his head in personal sorrow.
On August 17th, this sorrowful Brother came to Lodge. He
expressed his thanks to the Lodge for its sympathy, then tenders his
resignation as Secretary, because he has determined to leave the
jurisdiction. With great regret, the resignation was accepted.
A Special Meeting was called for August 31st to extend a
Fraternal Farewell to Brother King. The Most \Vorshipful Grand
Master, Brother T. John Newton was present. These minutes were
the last to be signed by Brother King. At a September communi8
cation, Brother King was made a Life Member.
of the District of Columbia 113
Brother King goes to Rochester, New York. From that city,
he sends advice to his lodge. He reminds the brethren that the
office of Secretary is the most important in the Lodge and that
the interest of the Lodge (not sentiment) should be their first
consideration. He recalls to mind words from an old time song
and uses them, "Mind well what you are about-and what you
mean to do".
(This was truly a great Secretary. He served nearly thirty-three years.
His records were complete and beautifully prepared. For years he received
Fifty Dollars and never reached One Hundred and Fifty. He
never missed writing to a single individual who ever participated in a
program and this was most remarkable because it was far beyond the
call of duty.)
He was Tiler from 1875 through 1877 and Secretary for 1878,
1884, 1887, 1891, 1895 to August, 1914.
The Lodge gave a supper with some success as the Committee
turned over One Hundred Fifty-two Dollars and Thirty Cents.
The Grand Lecturer, Thomas H. Young, continues to be faithful
in attendance and helpful in instruction.
At a communication on September 21st, Milton J. Fillius was
elected Secretary of Anacostia Lodge.
Pequessette Lodge of Watertown, Massachusetts, in appreciation
of work done by Anacostia Lodge sends a "handsome framed
photo of its Lodge Room." It was placed on the wall of the Lodge.
In October, 1914, a Testimonial in the form of a Gold Watch
was forwarded to Brother John H. King.
Grand Master, T. John Newton, and his officers paid a visit
to Anacostia Lodge in October. Past Grand Masters, Brothers
Henry K. Simpson and James A. Sample were welcomed. The reports
were received and words of praise were expressed for the
work of the retiring Secretary. After an elaborate program, the
Grand Master expressed his thanks for a most enjoyable evening.
He congratulated the Lodge for its beautiful decorations, which
he knew had been done by a "Goody Gude Man."
This was the Grand Master who issued the following Directives:
For the purpose of conferring the Degrees, he forbade the
Masters to permit any below the rank of Past Master or Wardens
to confer the same. He by official order, forbade the smoking in
all Lodge rooms at all times. This was undoubtedly a blow, for
it is a fact that in those days, the item for "Smokers" was almost
as much as the item for "Refreshments".
On December 7, 1914, Albert E. Beck was elected Master.
Brother Alfred Grimes leaves the Lodge with two hundred fortysix
members. He served in a most historic year, the year in which
114 Anacostia Lodge, No. 731, F. A. A. M.,
the Austrian Crown Prince, Archduke Francis Ferdinand and his
wife, Countess of Hohenberg, were assassinated at Saraj evo. A
new world was in the making. Men considered a dollar a day for
labor as a good wage and the Government clerk who made Eighteen
Hundred per annum was doing mighty good. The writer entered
Government Service in 1917 and thought that he had a wonderful
salary when he received One Thousand One Hundred Forty Dollars
per annum. When Ford offered Five Dollars per day, men thought
that he had lost his mind. Yes! A new world was in the making.
WAR was taking over-jobs, for the first time becaIne plentiful.
Girls could go off to the office just like men and in this year, they
began to flock to Washington. No longer was it a "disgrace for
women to work" . We were in "Splendid Isolation", but that
would not last for long.
At a Special Meeting on Decelnber 10, 1914, Past Grand Master
George C. Ober, installed Brother Albert E. Beck and his officers.
They retired to the Banquet Hall. This was a beautifully decorated
room and they were served by the Ladies of the Eastern Star. A
number of the Brethren were called upon to speak and then Past
Grand Master, Brother Ober pinned a Past Master's Jewel upon
the breast of Brother Alfred T. Grimes.
ALBERT E. BECK
December 10, 1914 December 6, 1915
Communications start coming in with reference to "destitute
fellow-mortals in the war-stricken countries of Europe." A
new Grand Master has been elected for the year 1915 and the
Grand Lodge adopted the following Resolution:
"That this Grand Lodge affirms its approval of the principle under which
a Master of a Lodge or a presiding Warden may call upon any Master
Mason to preside in his presence and under his direction, the Master or
Acting Master being responsible for all that is done as if he were actual1y
presiding in person."
Smoking in Lodge Rooms
The edict was revoked and the Grand Lodge resolved to forbid smoking
during the conferring of Degrees. At other periods the matter was left
to the discretion of the Master.
In February, 1915, we see the first reference to Valentine.
The eloquent Brother Simon Eube presents a basket of flowers to
the Master as a Valentine. A Program of readings, solos and addresses
makes for a delightful Valentine celebration. The Most
Worshipful Grand Master, Alexander Grant, Past Grand Master,
Charles E. Baldwin, Brother Lem Towers, Junior Grand Warden
and Brother Joseph H. Milans, Grand Marshal were welcomed at
the communication of March 1st and they assisted in the conferring
of the Master Masons Degree.
of the District of Columbia 115
Brothel' Cha.rles F. Roberts told of the opportunity to purchase
some fine benches of mahogany wood upholstered in leather at
a low pl"ice. (The benches that you see all about the present Lodge
room cost about One Hundred Dollars).
A large gathering from this and other jurisdictions came out
to witness the officers and members of George C. Whiting Lodge,
No. 22, confer the Master Masons Degree. Nearly every Lodge in
the city was represented.
At the July communication, the George Washington Masonic
National Memorial Association's project received consideration.
Brother John H. King was in attendance. He made a very interesting
address. At this time he presented a list of members on large
typewritten papers placed upon adjustable rollers. This was hung
upon the wall and remained there for many years. Brother George
W. Shoemaker had helped him to make the frame. Anacostia
Lodge enters the Masonic Bowling League with Brother W. Ralph
Williamson as Captain. Arrangements are being made to make a
return visit to Adherence Lodge in Baltimore. The Baltimore and
Ohio and the Electric Railroad "can handle as many as can go."
Most Worshipful Grand Master, Alexander Grant, and his
officers were received on November 1st. Past Grand Masters,
Charles E. Baldwin and James A. Sample were present. After an
address by the Grand Master, two guest speakers were presented,
Major Raymond Pullman, Superintendent of Police, and Reverend
Brother Earle Wolfley. A collation was served in the lower hall.
After a long, long time, the Lodge returned the visit of Adherence
Lodge. On Monday, November 8, 1915, they boarded a
train with seventy-six in the party and arrived in Baltimore at
8: 00 P.M., where a Committee met them. They were escorted to
the Temple on Charles Street and were shown all the lovely rooms
in the Temple said to be "Beautifully decorated with trimmings of
gold and handsome marble". They entered the Lodge room. and
were warmly greeted. The Master Masons Degree was then conferred.
Thereafter, they went to the Banquet Hall, "Which was
magnificient, built of marble and there served dinner and cigars."
Ex-Governor Warfield then expressed pleasure at meeting members
of Anacostia Lodge again. Brother Beck, the Master, thanked the
members for their cordial welcome and hospitality and invited
them to come over to Anacostia Lodge again. In the wee hours
of the morning, they arrived at their homes. Brother John H.
King went over to Baltimore with the Lodge and he is regular in
his attendance at the meetings. It may be that he has come back
to stay in Washington.
At the election on December 6, 1915, Simon Bube reached the
office of Master. He and his officers were installed by Brother
Albert E. Beck.
116 Anacostia Lodge, No. fJI, F. A. A. M.,
SIMON BUBE
December 6, 1915 December 4, 1916
BROTHERS SIMON BUBE and CHARLES F. ROBERTS.
As he comes into the East, Brother Charles F. Roberts is Senior
Grand Steward in the Grand Lodge Line of officers. These two
were great friends.
The Lodge again attended Divine Services in a body at the
Anacostia Methodist Church upon invitation of Reverend Brother
LeRoy G. White and in honor of George Washington.
The Master was called upon to conduct several Funeral services
in the first part of his year and one was for the Tiler of the
Lodge, Brother Henry W. Eno. He had been a member for over
twenty-five years and Tiler for thirteen years. At the Methodist
Church, Reverend 1. O. Isaacs, a former Pastor, had the opening
prayer, Brother Charles F. Roberts sang "Face to Face", Reverend
Brother LeRoy G. White read the service, and Brother 1. O. Isaacs
gave the sermon and eulogy. The Lodge was escorted by Anacostia
Chapter, No. 12, Royal Arch Masons and a delegation from Mineola
Tribe No. 14 Improved Order of Red Men.
Most Worshipful Grand Master, William W. Jermaine, with
Thomas H. Young, Grand Lecturer, visited the Lodge on March
20,1916. After the Grand Master was received, the Master formed
the Lodge in line for an old time Reception. They smoked and
mingled together, having a general good time. Thereafter, the
Grand Master "stirred the brethren for greater and better Masonic
work". Brother Evander French recited, Brother Charles F.
Roberts sang and a quartette composed of Brothers Fillius, Simpson,
Aikens and Roberts rendered selections. An "elegant address"
was then made by Reverend Brother L. Morgan Chambers of
Acacia Lodge, No. 18.
Brother James C. Beveridge, formerly of Crawford Lodge, No.
234, Meadville, Pennsylvania, and born in Glasgow, Scotland, affiliates
with Anacostia Lodge.
Funds are getting low and something must be done about it.
There is a great deal of sickness and a lot of appeals for help in
this year. The Lodge continues to pay bills for Nursing Service.
Past Masters conferred the Master Masons Degree on June
19th and Grand Master, Jermaine, visited the Lodge on July 3rd.
He came back on July 24th and took part in the E A Degree. The
Grand Master made a fourth visit on September 22nd. He was
interested in some changes to be proposed in the Grand Lodge. He
wanted a Masonic Club and an Assistant Grand Secretary. He
recommended Brother Horace Naylor as that Assistant. He wanted
our members to think over his suggestions.
of the District oj Columbia 117
The Most Worshipful Grand Master was not able to be present
at the Grand Visitation. Brother Lem Towers, Acting Grand
Master, was received with the officers of the Grand Lodge on
October 16, 1916. The Lodge was congratulated on its membership
of two hundred forty-four and commended for its beautiful
decorations and for its splendid charity. The orchestra provided
music and some of the brethren sang solos. This was followed by
an address from Reverend Brother 1\1. E. Martin, Pastor of Dumbarton
Methodist Church. Then they enjoyed a half hour "Smoker."
November 6th, having been set apart as a "Special Event"
night, over two hundred gathered to see what it was all about. It
was the Lambskin Club and Fraternity Band with Brother E. C.
Ford, President. The Master welcomed and introduced the brethren
to the Lodge and to the visitors. The Lodge was closed and all
retired to the Banquet Hall, which was "beautifully decorated with
American Flags, flowers and autumn leaves". The Band played
a number of pieces and after remarks by the Master, all arose and
sang "America", led by the Band.
There was a Sketch entitled "The Burgular"-by Brothers
Charles A. Stevens, Cha1'les Shakelford and John Shreve; comic
songs by Charles Shakelford, selections by Anacostia Quartette
and a Monologue by William Scantlebury. The President of the
Club then presented to Anacostia Lodge, on behalf of the members
of the Club, a very handsome Gavel made of wood from the White
House with engraving on the metal showing the three meeting
places of Anacostia Lodge. Brother Pierce then sang a song entitled
"I wasn't afraid but I thought I Had Better Go." Worshipful
Master, William Clabaugh of New Jerusalem Lodge, No.
9, sang a solo and all were served "hot fried oysters, coffee, apples
and cigars." The happy evening gave them something to remember.
On November 20th, reports were received from the Finance
Committee and Trustees. On December 4th, all officers and a good
number of members were present. After some business. we come
to the end of the page and read the following memorandum:
A Portion of the Minutes of December 4, 1916,
All ofthe Minutes for the year 19 I 7
and all of the minutes for the year 1918
~"February 8, 1937
Down and including the minutes of the Special Communication of December
2, 1918, are MISSING, and a thorough search did not bring
them to light.
J. C. Beveridge, Secretary"