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=THE MASONIC PORTRAIT OF BROTHER GENERAL GEORGE WASHINGTON.
ORIGINAL PASTEL PORTRAIT FROM LIFE BY WILLIAM WILLIAMS, PHILADELPHIA, SEPTEMBER 1794, PAINTED AT THE REQUEST OF ALEXANDRIA LODGE, No. 39, A. Y. M., WARRANTED BY THE GRAND LODGE OF PENNSYLVANIA, FEBRUARY 3, 1783, NOW THE ALEXANDRIA-WASHINGTON LODGE, No. 22, A. F. & A. M. OF VIRGINIA. REPRODUCTION FROM THE UNIQUE COPY IN THE MUSEUM OF THE R. W. GRAND LODGE, F. & A. M. OF PENNSYLVANIA.
COPYRIGHTED BY ALEXANDRIA-WASHINGTON LODGE, No. 22, VIRGINIA, AND PRINTED BY ITS PERMISSION.=
Washington's Masonic Correspondence
AS FOUND AMONG THE WASHINGTON PAPERS IN THE LIBRARY OF CONGRESS
Compiled from the original records, under the direction of the Committee on Library of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, with annotations.
BY JULIUS F. SACHSE LIBRARIAN, MASONIC TEMPLE PHILADELPHIA
PHILADELPHIA 1915
Entered according to Act of Congress in the year 1915, in the Office of the Librarian of Congress at Washington, D. C., by J. HENRY WILLIAMS, R.W.G.M.
COMMITTEE ON LIBRARY
JOHN WANAMAKER, Chairman, SAMUEL W. LATTA, NORRIS S. BARRATT, HARMAN YERKES, HENRY DARRACH, WALTER T. TAGGART.
JULIUS F. SACHSE, Librarian.
An Edition of One Thousand Copies has been printed, of which this is No. 355
PRESS OF THE NEW ERA PRINTING COMPANY LANCASTER, PA.
J. HENRY WILLIAMS Grand Master 1914-1915.
J. Henry Williams, R. W. Grand Master
Office of the R. W. Grand Master F. & A. Masons in Pennsylvania, Masonic Temple Philadelphia,
The position of eminence, the great respect and the profound reverence in which the name of WASHINGTON is enshrined in the hearts of the American people, and particularly so, with the members of this Fraternity, and of all true lovers of liberty and freedom wheresoever dispersed, is the reason, if any be needed, why everything relating to this great man and worthy brother should be preserved for the future generations, to be used by them as a guide, in the cultivation of those cardinal virtues of Honor and Integrity, that should ever characterize the conduct of a good man and a good Mason.
The collection and reproduction of the letters of Brother WASHINGTON, together with the text of this book, have been prepared under my supervision, and its publication is heartily approved.
J. Henry Williams Grand Master. FEBRUARY 22, A.D. 1915—A.L. 5915.
CONTENTS.
PAGE
Foreword 1
The Masonic Correspondence of Washington 5
I Correspondence with Watson and Cassoul 19
II Correspondence with Alexandria Lodge, No. 39, 1783 28
III Correspondence with Alexandria Lodge, No. 39, 1784 34
IV Correspondence with King David's Lodge, No. 1, Newport, R. I., 1790 37
V Correspondence with St. John's Lodge, No. 2, Newbern, N. C., 1791 44
VI Correspondence with Prince George's Lodge, No. 16, Georgetown, S. C., 1791 51
VII Correspondence with Grand Lodge of South Carolina, 1791 57
VIII Correspondence with Grand Lodge of Georgia, 1791 65
IX Correspondence with Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, 1792 69
X Correspondence with Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, 1792 80
XI Correspondence with Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, 1796 86
XII Correspondence with Alexandria Lodge, No. 22, Virginia, 1797 95
XIII Correspondence with Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, 1797 102
XIV Correspondence with Grand Lodge of Maryland, 1798 111
XV Correspondence with G. W. Snyder, 1798 117
XVI Index 141
ILLUSTRATIONS
PAGE
Masonic Portrait of Washington Frontispiece.
J. Henry Williams, R. W. Grand Master iii
Washington's Headquarters at Newburgh on the Hudson Facing page 22
Wise's Tavern, Alexandria, Virginia " " 35
Moses Michael Hays (Portrait) " " 15
Washington, (Houdon Portrait), 1786 " " 36
Mordecai Gist, (Portrait) " " 57
Residence of President Washington in Philadelphia " " 69
Fac-Simile of Address " " 72
Jonathan Bayard Smith, (Portrait) " " 76
Rev. William Smith, D.D., (Portrait) " " 88
Mount Vernon, 1783-1799 " " 95
Paul Revere, (Portrait) " " 105
Washington, (St. Memin Portrait), 1798 " " 117
Draft of Letter to Grand Lodge of Maryland Between pages 112-113
Press copy of Washington's letter to G. W. Snyder, September 25, 1798 " " 124-125
Press copy of letter, October 24, 1798 " " 130-131
FOREWORD
WASHINGTON's Masonic correspondence as found among the Washington papers in the Manuscript department of the Library of Congress, affords an insight of the great esteem in which WASHINGTON held the Masonic Fraternity, of which since his early days he had been an honored member.
This is further shown by his great courtesy to the Brethren, in his replies to their addresses, no matter whether they were from a Grand or Subordinate Lodge. In this collection, were also found some of the original drafts of WASHINGTON's replies, together with copies of the various masonic addresses and letters to him, and in the case of Dominie Snyder, press copies of his answers.
In the present work an attempt has been made to group this matter together in chronological order, also to show some of the surroundings and conditions under which this correspondence was made, and of the Brethren who were prominent in the presentation of these Eleven Addresses, which came to him from Seven of the Thirteen Colonies.
A complete set of photostatic fac-similes of these documents in the Library of Congress, has been secured for the Museum of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. Efforts were also made to obtain photographic copies of such of the WASHINGTON Masonic letters as were still in existence, which were successful except in two instances as noted in the text.
It will be noted that on April 30, 1789, WASHINGTON, while Master of his Lodge, was inaugurated President of the United States; this is the only instance where one of the fourteen Presidents, who were Members of our Fraternity was a Master of a Lodge during their term as President.
The esteem in which WASHINGTON held the Masonic Fraternity, is shown by the fact, that in almost every case he had both the address and his reply, copied upon opposite pages of one of his folio letter-books, now in the Library of Congress. These copies are respectively in the handwriting of WASHINGTON's private secretaries, viz:—Major William Jackson: Tobias Lear: Bartholomew Dandridge and G. W. Craik.
In addition to the above copies we have WASHINGTON's original drafts of his letters to Watson and Cassoul, to the Grand Lodges of Massachusetts, South Carolina, and Maryland, to Paul Revere, and as before stated press copies of his answers to Mr. Snyder.
A perusal of these original documents, as here presented, affords an excellent illustration of the entente cordiale, which existed between WASHINGTON and his Masonic Brethren.
Upon the other hand, how the Masonic Fraternity, during WASHINGTON's lifetime, venerated their august Brother, is shown by the addresses of this correspondence as retained by WASHINGTON.
Also by the various Masonic Memorial services held, after WASHINGTON's death, the chief of which was in Philadelphia, under the auspices of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. The Masonic services held in every State of the Union, the many Eulogies and Sermons delivered and printed are matters of history.
How this veneration of the great WASHINGTON continued during the past years, is shown by the fact that there are no less than 53 Masonic Lodges in the United States, named after the illustrious Brother. This is independent of the numerous Royal Arch Chapters, Commanderies, and other Masonic bodies, that bear the name "WASHINGTON."
Washington Lodges are found in thirty-eight of the forty-eight States of the American Union.
The other ten States, which thus far have no "Washington Lodge" within their Jurisdiction, are Mississippi and Texas, together with the newer western States lately admitted into the American Union, viz:—Nevada, North Dakota, Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Utah, New Mexico and Arizona.
In addition to the fifty-three Washington Lodges, there is also one each in Canada, the Island of Cuba and the District of Columbia.
In the Masonic Fraternity throughout the world, the name of WASHINGTON is ever kept in remembrance, as one of the brightest luminaries in the Masonic constellation, one of the most prominent examples, being his full length oil portrait in Masonic clothing in the Hall of the Grand Lodge of England at London.
Acknowledgments are due to the Hon. Herbert Putnam, Librarian of Congress, for placing these documents at the disposal of the writer, and giving permission to have photostat copies made of same; also to J. Henry Williams, Esq., R. W. Grand Master of Masons in Pennsylvania and Masonic Jurisdiction thereunto belonging, for suggestions and encouragement in the preparation of this work.
Julius F. Sachse. PHILADELPHIA, FEBRUARY 22, A.D. 1915—A.L. 5915.
The Masonic Correspondence of Washington
Much has been written pro and con about WASHINGTON and his connection with the Masonic Fraternity. Thus far no complete set of his Masonic writings have been compiled or published. Such portions as have been printed were fragmentary, and issued for what may be called local purposes.
How careful WASHINGTON was of his Masonic correspondence is shown by the fact that he had copies made, in his private letter books, of most all letters sent him by the various Masonic Grand and Subordinate bodies, and his answers thereto, usually upon opposite pages. He thus had both the addresses and his reply at hand for easy reference. This fact shows the esteem in which WASHINGTON held his Brethren of the Masonic Fraternity, as well as his own opinion of Freemasonry.
These letter-books are now in the Library of Congress, and photostat copies of such as relate to Freemasonry have been made for the Library of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.
As to the authenticity of the Washington Letter Books, and how they came into the possession of the United States Government is explained by the following statement by Mr. Galliard Hunt, chief Manuscript division, Library of Congress:[1]
"They are a part of the Washington papers in "the Government's possession, purchased from the "Washington family, one lot in 1834 and the re- "mainder in 1849, and deposited in the Department "of State until 1903, when, by the President's order, "they were sent to this Library. They range in date "from 1754 to 1799. Some of them are partly "or wholly in Washington's hand-writing, and others "in the writing of his secretaries and their clerks. "There are no volumes of press copies, but there are "some press copies among the papers."
WASHINGTON in writing his answer to the various greetings, in most cases would first make a rough copy of his reply, then digest, alter, correct or change such parts or sentences as he thought proper. Then after deliberate consideration, a fair copy would be made either by WASHINGTON or one of his Secretaries and signed by him, and sent to the Masonic bodies for which they were intended.
Fortunately some of the original drafts of these Masonic letters have come down to us; thus far five autographic copies have been found among the Washington papers in the Library of Congress at Washington.
1. Draft of letter written at Newburg, New York, August 19, 1782, to Watson and Cassoul of Nantes, France, thanking them for the Masonic Apron, embroidered by the nuns at Nantes, and which is now in possession of Alexandria-Washington Lodge, No. 22, at Alexandria, Virginia.
2. To the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts.
3. To the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.
4. To the Grand Lodge of South Carolina.
5. To the Grand Lodge of Maryland; this draft is a two-page letter written upon a letter sheet and shows many changes and corrections; it is dated 1798.
In addition to the above original drafts there were found several addresses and the accompanying answers, which thus far have never been published, in fact no mention of them has ever appeared in print, viz:—
1. An address from the Grand Lodge of Georgia, together with WASHINGTON's reply.
2. A letter to Paul Revere, Grand Master of Massachusetts and his Grand Officers.
3. An address from the Brethren of Prince George's Lodge, No. 16, Georgetown, South Carolina, presented to President WASHINGTON during his visit to South Carolina, April 30, 1791, also his reply to same.
4. An address from the Brethren of St. John's Lodge, No. 2, of Newbern, North Carolina, and the reply to same.
Photostat copies of the above have also been obtained which make the most complete collection of the Masonic Correspondence of WASHINGTON which has thus far been compiled.
A careful study of this correspondence so carefully cherished by WASHINGTON puts an entirely new phase upon WASHINGTON's connection with the Masonic Fraternity, and his esteem of Freemasonry.
These papers absolutely thrust aside all of the statements, arguments and libels, brought forth by our misguided enemies at the time of the Anti-Masonic craze during the last century, and in a small way kept alive even down to the present day by some people who are blinded by their ignorance or malice.
Referring to some of their published statements that WASHINGTON never belonged to the Masonic Fraternity, and that there were no authentic Masonic letters nor copies thereof among his records so frequently made during the political Anti-Masonic craze, which swept over New England and the Middle States about eighty-five years ago, the following quotations from the Masonic literature of the period will prove interesting examples.
One of the chief statements made by these people, and brought before all their conventions and heralded in the public prints was: "That though General Washington caused to be carefully copied in books kept for that purpose, all his letters on every subject, no trace whatever of any of the five letters under consideration,[2] nor any letters to any other Lodge or Masonic body whatever, are to be found among the records of his correspondence."[3]
The chief authority upon whom the leaders of the Anti-Masonic movement at that time depended in their defamation of WASHINGTON, was Jared Sparks of Boston, who at the time was engaged writing a life of WASHINGTON, and then had access to all the Washington letter-books and papers, and from his connection with the Washington correspondence, was supposed to be the best qualified to pass upon their authenticity.
Another of the charges made by the Anti-Masonic bigots whose chief object was to controvert facts was:
"That although WASHINGTON was extremely scrupulous in preserving his correspondence with all public or private bodies, there is not a line of his relating to Freemasonry, to be found among all his papers, except the correspondence with Mr. Snyder![4] It is also a fact, that WASHINGTON was equally scrupulous in dating his letters, and it is believed that not one can be found, which is without a date."[5]
It appears that the chairman of a committee of citizens of Boston called upon the officers of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts to submit their two Washington letters to Jared Sparks for his inspection. This the Grand Officers refused to do.
In return Sparks sent the following letter to the Chairman:
"Boston, February 18, 1833.
"Sir,—I received this morning your letter of the 15th instant, in which you inquire:
"Whether I have yet seen or had in my possession any original letter or letters, in the hand writing of General Washington, addressed to any body of men denominating themselves Freemasons.
"In reply, I can only state that I have seen no letters from General Washington of the kind described in yours, nor received any communication on the subject, either verbal or written.[6]
"I am, Sir, "Very respectfully, "Your ob't servant, "JARED SPARKS."
How Sparks could have overlooked the numerous entries in the letter books whose numbers and folios are here quoted, also the drafts of replies in WASHINGTON's hand-writing and signed by him (copies of which are here given in this work), can only be accounted for by the fact that he must have been carried away by the political excitement of the day.
WASHINGTON's connection with the Masonic Fraternity has been exhaustively traced by Brother James M. Lamberton, Past Master of Perseverance Lodge, No. 21, in his address "WASHINGTON AS A FREEMASON," from the day of his entrance into Fredericksburg Lodge, No. 4, of Virginia, September 1, 1752, until the day of his death, December 14, 1799, before the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, at its celebration of the Sesqui-Centennial Anniversary of the Initiation of Brother GEORGE WASHINGTON into the Fraternity of Freemasons,[7] held in the Masonic Temple, in the city of Philadelphia on Wednesday, November 5, 1902.
It must also be remembered that WASHINGTON made a public profession of his membership in Philadelphia, Monday, December 28, 1778, when he walked in procession with his brethren of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, from the College at Fourth and Arch Streets to Christ Church on Second Street above Market Street, Philadelphia, where, after a prayer by Rev. William White, a sermon was preached for the "[Benefit of the POOR] by appointment of and before The General Communication of Free and Accepted MASONS of the State of PENNSYLVANIA, on Monday, December 28, 1788, Celebrated, agreeable to their Constitution, as the Anniversary of ST. JOHN the Evangelist, by William Smith, D.D., Provost of the College and Academy of Philadelphia."
This Sermon was printed and dedicated to Brother WASHINGTON and a copy sent to him, which was bound with other pamphlets in a volume lettered "Masonic Sermons," and is so mentioned in the inventory of his estate and now in the Boston Athenaeum.[8] At this service over four hundred pounds were collected for the relief of the poor.
Rev. Brother William Smith, D.D., preached a number of Masonic Sermons in Pennsylvania, Delaware and Maryland; three of which delivered at the request of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania were printed, viz.:
Sermon 1.—On Brotherly Love, &c. Preached on the Anniversary of St. John the Baptist, June 24, 1755,
Sermon 2.—Preached on Monday, December 28, 1778, celebrated as the Anniversary of St. John the Evangelist. With an Appendix on the Character of Lucius Quintius Cincinnatus,
Sermon 3.—Preached before the Grand Lodge of Communication, on St. John the Baptist's day, June 24, 1795.
Original copies of the above are in the Library of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.
Rev. Brother Smith reprinted the above in a Volume of Sermons with the following note:[9]
"N. B. The above three Sermons were preached at the request of the Grand Lodge of Communication, for Pennsylvania, and contains in substance all that the Author thinks it necessary to bequeath to the Brotherhood, by way of Sermons, preached at different times and in sundry of the neighboring States, during 48 Years past."
By referring to the following letters and Documents it is shown that WASHINGTON's interest in Freemasonry and the Fraternity continued until the time of his death.
These documents cover the period from 1782 to 1798.
As these copies in our possession are photostat fac-similes of the original documents in the Library of Congress, there can never be any question of correctness or of their authenticity.
The finding and collating of this material will settle for all time to come the question of WASHINGTON's connection with the Ancient Fraternity, and his opinion and esteem of Freemasonry.
The earliest record we have of any Masonic Body proposing a masonic address to General WASHINGTON, was the resolution offered in King David's Lodge, No. 1, at Newport, Rhode Island, during WASHINGTON's visit to Newport in March, 1781, while the French Army under Rochambeau was quartered there. WASHINGTON arrived in Newport on the sixth of March and remained there until the thirteenth, when he left for Providence by way of Bristol.
It was in anticipation of this visit that the Brethren of King David's Lodge, of which Brother Moses Michael Hays[10] was Worshipful Master, that a masonic greeting to General WASHINGTON was proposed. The following entry from the old Minute Book of the Lodge will explain why the project failed to materialize.
=MOSES M. HAYS
W. M. KING DAVID'S LODGE, No. 1, NEWPORT, R. I., 1780-1781. GRAND MASTER OF MASONS IN MASSACHUSETTS, 1788-1793.=
EXTRACT FROM THE RECORDS OF KING DAVID'S LODGE.
"Regular Lodge night, held at the house of Mr. James Tew, Wednesday evening, the 7th February, 1781. 5781.
"A motion being made that as our worthy brother, his Excellency General Washington, was daily expected amongst us, a committee should be appointed to prepare an address in behalf of the Lodge, to present him. Voted, That the Right Worshipful Master (Moses Michael Hays) together with brothers Seixas, Peleg Clark, John Handy, and Robert Elliot, be a committee for that purpose, and that they present the same to this Lodge at their next meeting for their approbation."
"At a Lodge held by request of the Right Worshipful Master, Feb. 14th, 1781. 5781,
"The committee appointed to draught an address to our worthy brother, His Excellency General Washington, report, that on inquiry they find General Washington not to be a Grand Master of North America; as was supposed, nor even Master of any particular Lodge. They are, therefore, of opinion that this Lodge would not choose to address him as a private brother at the same time, think it would not be agreeable to our worthy brother to be addressed as such.
"Voted, That the report of the committee be received, and that the address be entirely laid aside for the present."[11]
Now as to the cause for this uncertainty how to address Brother WASHINGTON, it will be recalled that just at that time, the proposition sent out by the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania nominating General WASHINGTON as Grand Master of all the Colonies, was then before the various grand bodies, but did not find favor in New England, in fact the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts was the chief objector, and finally defeated the scheme to elect WASHINGTON the Grand Master General.[12]
The means of intercourse between the different Masonic Bodies at that early day were so limited and uncertain that it offers a clear explanation for the uncertainty under which the brethren of King David's Lodge, No. 1, at Newport labored at that time.
During the Anti-Masonic craze in the last century, the above minute was extensively used by the political leaders of the Anti-Masonic party to strengthen their claim that WASHINGTON had never presided over any Masonic Lodge.
Following is a complete list of the Washington Masonic Correspondence, thus far found among the Washington papers in the Library of Congress.
Draft of Letter to Watson and Cassoul, Nantes, France, August 10, 1782.
Letter to Alexandria Lodge, No. 39, Virginia, December 28, 1783.
Address from King David's Lodge, No. 1, Rhode Island, August 17, 1790, and WASHINGTON's Reply.
Address from St. John's Lodge, No. 2, Newbern, North Carolina, April 20, 1791, and his reply.
Address from Prince George's Lodge (Moderns) Georgetown, South Carolina, April 30, 1791, and his reply.
Draft of reply to Grand Lodge of South Carolina, May 5, 1791.
Address from Grand Lodge of Georgia, May 14, 1791, and his reply.
Address from Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, March, 1792, and his reply.
Address of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, December 27, 1792, and his reply.
Address from Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, December 27, 1796, and his reply.
Address from Alexandria Lodge, No. 22, Virginia, April 4, 1797, and his reply.
Letter to Paul Revere and Grand Officers, April 24, 1797.
Draft of Letter to Grand Lodge of Massachusetts in reply to an address, April 1797.
Draft of a reply to an address from the Grand Lodge of Maryland, November 8, 1798.
Letter from G. W. Snyder to WASHINGTON, August 22, 1798.
WASHINGTON's Reply to Snyder, September 25, 1798.
WASHINGTON's Reply to Snyder's letter of October 17, 1798.
=ELKANAH WATSON
B. PLYMOUTH, MASS., JANUARY 22, 1758, D. AT PORT KENT, N. Y., DECEMBER 5, 1842, WHO, TOGETHER WITH HIS PARTNER CASSOUL, PRESENTED TO WASHINGTON A MASONIC APRON MADE BY THE NUNS AT NANTES, FRANCE.
NOW IN THE POSSESSION OF ALEXANDRIA-WASHINGTON LODGE, No. 22, VIRGINIA.=
Footnotes:
[1] Letter to Julius F. Sachse from Manuscript Division, December 19, 1914—in Library of Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.
[2] The letters referred to by the Anti-Masons were the one to King David's Lodge at Newport, two to the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, and one to Charleston, S. C., and to the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. The above five Masonic Letters were all that were known to the Anti-Masons at that time.
[3] "Vindication of General Washington from the stigma of adherence to Secret Societies by Joseph Ritner Governor of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, communicated by request of the House of Representatives, to that body, on the 8th of March, 1837."
This address during the Anti-Masonic period was regarded as an important state paper.
[4] Letter press copies of the Snyder letters were retained by WASHINGTON. Photostat copies of same are in the Archives of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.
[5] "Proceedings of the Third State Anti-masonic Convention, of Massachusetts, Worcester, 1832," p. 27.
[6] Vindication of Washington before quoted, p. 13.
[7] The Ancient Minute Book and Ledger of Fredericksburg Lodge, No. 4, in Virginia, of which we have a photostat, is still in possession of the Lodge, showing that "GEORGE WASHINGTON was entered November 4, 1752, and on November 6, paid for his entrance L2. 3. 0, March 3, 1753, GEORGE WASHINGTON was passed to Fellow-Craft; August 4, 1753, GEORGE WASHINGTON was raised Master Mason."
[8] Catalogue of Washington Collection in Boston Athenaeum, Boston, 1897, p. 185.
[9] Cf. "Works of William Smith, D.D.," Philadelphia, 1803, Vol. II, pp. 27-88, also "Life and Correspondence of Rev. William Smith, D.D.," Philadelphia, 1880, Vol. II, p. 9. Et seq.
[10] For an exhaustive sketch of Brother Moses Michael Hays, see The American Freemason, Vol. V, p. 576.
[11] "Newport, ss. Newport, August 18th, A.D. 1832. I certify that the extracts taken from the records of King David's Lodge, Newport, contained in the above and three foregoing pages, have been by me compared with the minutes contained in two books purporting and appearing to be the original records of said Lodge, and found to be true and accurate copies of the same.
"Quid attestor, "GEO. C. MASON. "Jus. Peace and Pub. Not'y."
Cf. "Anti-masonic Republican Convention of Massachusetts held at Worcester, September 5-6, 1832," p. 23.
[12] For a full account of this episode, see "Freemasonry in Pennsylvania," Barratt and Sachse, Philadelphia, 1908, Vol. 1, Chapter XII; "WASHINGTON as General Grand Master," p. 393 et seq.
I
CORRESPONDENCE WITH WATSON & CASSOUL, NANTES, FRANCE, AUGUST, 1782.
The earliest letter of General GEORGE WASHINGTON of Masonic Import known is the one written while in camp at Newburgh in New York, dated State of New York, August 10, 1782, to the firm of Watson and Cassoul in Nantes, France, in which his friend, Brother Elkanah Watson was the chief partner, thanking the firm for the Masonic Apron and ornaments sent him from Nantes, France.
This apron is now in the possession of the Alexandria-Washington Lodge, No. 22, at Alexandria, Virginia.
Elkanah Watson in his Memoirs states:[13]
"Wishing to pay some mark of respect to our beloved Washington, I employed, in conjunction with my friend M. Cossoul, nuns in one of the convents at Nantes to prepare some elegant Masonic ornaments, and gave them a plan for combining the American and French Flags on the apron designed for this use. They were executed in a superior and expensive style. We transmitted them to America, accompanied by an appropriate address."
By the above extract is shown beyond all doubt the error in the statement so repeatedly made, that the apron at Alexandria is the one made by the Marquise de Lafayette, and presented to WASHINGTON by General Lafayette, during his visit to Mount Vernon in 1784, and the one in the Museum of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, that of Watson and Cassoul.[14]
Following letter was sent to WASHINGTON, together with the Masonic Apron and "Ornaments," by Messrs. Watson and Cassoul, from France under date "east of Nantes," 23d 1st Month, 5782.[15]
"TO HIS EXCELLENCY, GENERAL WASHINGTON, AMERICA.
"Most Illustrious and Respected Brother:
"In the moment when all Europe admire and feel the effects of your glorious efforts in support of American liberty, we hasten to offer for your acceptance a small pledge of our homage. Zealous lovers of liberty and its institutions, we have experienced the most refined joy in seeing our chief and brother stand forth in its defence, and in defence of a newborn nation of Republicans.
"Your glorious career will not be confined to the protection of American liberty, but its ultimate effect will extend to the whole human family, since Providence has evidently selected you as an instrument in his hands, to fulfill his eternal decrees.
"It is to you, therefore, the glorious orb of America, we presume to offer Masonic ornaments, as an emblem of your virtues. May the Grand Architect of the Universe be the Guardian of your precious days, for the glory of the Western Hemisphere and the entire universe. Such are the vows of those who have the favor to be by all the known numbers."
"Your affectionate brothers, "WATSON & CASSOUL."
"East of Nantes, 23d 1st Month, 5782."
=WASHINGTON'S HEADQUARTERS
NEWBURGH-ON-THE-HUDSON WHERE THE WATSON AND CASSOUL LETTER WAS WRITTEN, AUGUST, 1782.=
Owing to the uncertain intercourse between the two countries, it was almost seven months before Brother WASHINGTON received the Masonic apron, ornaments and letter from France. He at that time was in camp with the army at Newburg on the Hudson.[16]
In reply WASHINGTON sent the following autograph letter to the donors in Nantes, viz.:
"STATE OF NEW YORK "Augt 10th 1782.
"Gentn.
"The Masonick Ornamts "which accompanied your Bro- "therly Address of the 23d of "Jany last, tho' elegant in "themselves, were rendered "more valuable by the flattering "sentiments, and affectionate "manner, in which they were "presented.—
"If my endeavours to "avert the evil, with which this "Country was threatned by a "deliberate plan of Tyranny, "should be crowned with the suc "cess that is wished—The praise "is due to the Grand Architect "of the Universe; who did not see "fit to suffer his superstructures "and justice, to be subjected to the "Ambition of the Princes of this "World, or to the rod of oppression, "in the hands of any power upon "Earth.—
"For your affectionate "Vows, permit me to be grateful; "—and offer mine for true Brothers "in all parts of the world; and "to assure you of the sincerity "with which I am
"Yrs "Go. Washington"
"Messrs "Watson & Cosson[17] "East of Nantes"
This autograph letter from WASHINGTON to Messrs. Watson and Cassoul is now in the possession of the Grand Lodge of New York, who purchased it from a member of the Watson family in the year 1866 or 1867 at a cost of approximately $1,000, and is now framed and secured between two sheets of glass in the collection of the Committee of Antiquities of the Grand Lodge F. & A. M. of New York.[18]
It is written upon two pages of an ordinary letter sheet, and was a copy of one written by WASHINGTON, with which he was not entirely satisfied, as shown by the changes made in the text before it was sent to France. The first copy WASHINGTON retained, and is now in the Library of Congress, and is here given for comparison, viz:
"STATE OF NEW YORK, "Augt 10th 1782.
"Gentn.,
"The Masonick Orna- "ments which accompanied your "Brotherly Address of the 23d. "of the first month, tho' elegant "in themselves, were rendered "more valuable by the flattering "sentiments, and affectionate "manner, in which they were "offered.—
"If my endeavours to "avert the evil, with which "this Country was threatned, by "a deliberate plan of Tyranny, "should be crowned with the "success that is wished—the "praise is due to the Grand "Architect of the Universe; who see fit to "who did not ^ suffer his superstruc "tures & justice, to be subjected ambition of the Princes of this world—or "to the ^ rod of oppression, in the "hands of any power upon Earth.
"For your affectionate "vows, permit me to be grateful; "and offer mine for true Brothers "in all parts of the world; and "to assure you of the sincerity "with which I am,
"Yrs. "Go. Washington"
Endorsed to "Messrs. Watson & "Cosson—Nantes "10th Augt 1782."
FAC-SIMILE OF THE ORIGINAL DRAFT OF WASHINGTON'S LETTER TO WATSON AND CASSOUL, NEW YORK, AUGUST 10, 1782.
A photographic fac-simile of the letter now in New York, and a photostat of the original copy retained by WASHINGTON are in the collection of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.
The firm of Watson and Cassoul of Nantes, France, acted as confidential agents of the American Government during the Revolutionary period, as is shown by their correspondence with Benjamin Franklin in the Franklin Mss. collection of the American Philosophical Society.[19] Elkanah Watson was also a bearer of despatches to Dr. Franklin.
Footnotes:
[13] "Men and Times of the Revolution, or Memoirs of Elkanah Watson," New York, 1856, pp. 135, 136.
[14] Cf. "Proceedings Grand Lodge of New York," 1867, p. 28.
[15] "Memoirs of Elkanah Watson," p. 135.
[16] Cf. "Itinerary of General WASHINGTON from June 15, 1775, to December 23, 1783," by William S. Baker, Philadelphia, 1892, p. 271.
[17] It will be noted that on both the draft and letter, WASHINGTON spells the name Cassoul—"Cosson."
[18] Catalogue of Antiquities and Curios, Grand Lodge F. & A. M., New York, Class J, No. 1, New York, 1905.
[19] Cf. "Calendar of the Papers of Benjamin Franklin in the Library of the American Philosophical Society," edited by I. Minis Hays, Volume V, p. 312.
II
CORRESPONDENCE WITH ALEXANDRIA LODGE, NO. 39, VIRGINIA, DECEMBER, 1783.
The next Masonic Letter of Brother WASHINGTON of which we have any knowledge is the one written in answer to a letter sent him, upon his return to civil life by the Brethren of Lodge No. 39, on the register of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, which met at Alexandria, Virginia.
December 23, 1783, General WASHINGTON presented himself to "The United States in Congress Assembled," at Annapolis, Maryland, and resigned his Commission that he had received on June 17, 1775, as Commander-in-Chief of the Armies of the United States.
Upon Christmas Eve he returned to Mount Vernon, whereupon the Brethren at Alexandria, who, it must be remembered, were working under a Pennsylvania Warrant, at once sent the following Address signed by the Officers of Lodge No. 39, to Brother WASHINGTON at Mount Vernon,[20] viz.:
"Sir: Whilst all denominations of people bless the happy occasion of your excellency's return to enjoy private and domestic felicity, permit us, sir, the members of Lodge No. 39, lately established in Alexandria, to assure your excellency, that we, as a mystical body, rejoice in having a brother so near us, whose preeminent benevolence has secured the happiness of millions; and that we shall esteem ourselves highly honored at all times your excellency shall be pleased to join us in the needful business."
"We have the honor to be, in the name and behalf of No. 39, your excellency's
"Devoted friends and brothers, "ROBERT ADAM, M. "E. C. DICK, S. W. "J. ALLISON, J. W. "WM. RAMSAY, Treas."
"His Excellency General Washington."
Two days later Brother WASHINGTON sent following reply,[21] viz.:
"MOUNT VERNON 28th Decr. 1783.
"Gentlemen:
"With pleasing sensibility "I received your favor of the 26th, and "beg leave to offer you my sincere thanks "for the favorable sentiments with "which it abounds.—
"I shall always feel pleasure "when it may be in my power to ren- "der service to Lodge No 39, and in "every act of brotherly kindness to the "Members of it; being with great truth.
"Your affecte Brother "and Obedt Servant "Go. Washington"
"Robt Adam Esqr Master, "& the Wardens & Treasr "of Lodge No 39."
No copy of either address nor reply of this correspondence has thus far been found among the Washington papers in the Library of Congress, by the present writer.
Brother Robert Adam, the Master of Alexandria Lodge, No. 39, was a Son of the Rev. John Adam, D.D., and Janet Campbell, of Kelbride, Scotland, was born May 4, 1731; he emigrated to America in 1753, and, after a short residence at Annapolis, Md., established himself at a pleasant country residence in Fairfax County, Virginia, about four miles from Alexandria. He was a gentleman of refined taste, cultivation and wealth, and interested himself in everything that could promote the prosperity of his adopted home.
WASHINGTON'S REPLY TO ALEXANDRIA LODGE, NO. 39. ORIGINAL IN ALEXANDRIA-WASHINGTON LODGE, NO. 22, ALEXANDRIA, VIRGINIA.
It appears that during his residence at Annapolis, he was made a Mason in a clandestine or irregular Lodge, and in the year 1783 applied for a dispensation from the Grand Master of Pennsylvania, to apply to Lodge No. 2, for initiation and membership.
Brother Dr. Elisha Cullen Dick, Senior Warden of Lodge No. 39, was a native of Pennsylvania, born near Marcus Hook, in Delaware County, about 1753, and died at Alexandria, Va., September 22, 1825. He was a son of Archibald Dick, a member of Lodge No. 2 at Philadelphia, and joined the same Lodge, September 15, 1779.[22] Brother Elisha C. Dick was a graduate of the old Pequea Academy, and of the College of Pennsylvania. He began the study of medicine under Drs. William Shippen and Benjamin Rush. After graduating he settled in Alexandria, Va., and at once became active in Masonic circles in that city, and was instrumental in having the petition presented to the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania for a warrant, which was granted under the name and number "Alexandria Lodge No. 39."
Upon the records of the Lodge, Brother Dick appears as both predecessor and successor of Brother WASHINGTON as Master. Brother Dick was the first consulting physician in WASHINGTON's last illness, and also conducted the Masonic services at WASHINGTON's funeral on December 18, 1799. A biography of Dr. Dick is in the Library of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.
Brother John Allison, the Junior Warden of Lodge No. 39, had served as Major in the 1st Virginia State Regiment, and later as Lieutenant Colonel.
Brother William Ramsay, Treasurer of Lodge No. 39, was an old personal friend of WASHINGTON.
For a history of Alexandria Lodge, No. 39, warranted by the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, February 3, 1783, which was constituted on the second floor of a large three-story frame building, known as the "Lamb Tavern," on the twenty-fifth of February, 1783, the Masonic student is referred to "Old Masonic Lodges of Pennsylvania," Philadelphia, 1913, Chapter XLVI, pp. 153-168.
This tavern was situated on the west side of Union Street, between Prince and Duke Streets, Alexandria, the site of which is now known as No. 55 South Union Street.[23]
Footnotes:
[20] Cf. "Old Masonic Lodges of Pennsylvania—Moderns and Ancients," Julius F. Sachse, Philadelphia, 1913, Vol. II, p. 157. Also Vide "Washington the Man and the Mason," by Charles H. Callahan, published under the auspices of the "Memorial Temple Committee of the George Washington Masonic National Memorial Association," Washington, D. C., 1913.
[21] Original among Washington relics in Alexandria-Washington Lodge, No. 22, Alexandria, Virginia. Fac-simile in Washington collection of Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.
[22] Elisha C. Dick's petition was presented in Lodge No. 2, September 14, 1779, approved and entered by virtue of a dispensation from the Grand Master, September 15; passed and raised, September 23. "Freemasonry in Pennsylvania," Vol. I, pp. 352, 353.
[23] Cf. "The Lodge of Washington," by F. L. Brocket, Alexandria, Va., 1876.
III
CORRESPONDENCE WITH ALEXANDRIA LODGE, NO. 39, VIRGINIA, JUNE, 1784.
The next Washington letter of Masonic import in chronological order is his reply to an invitation to join the brethren of Alexandria Lodge, No. 39, in the celebration of St. John the Baptist's Day, June 24, 1784, to which WASHINGTON sent the following reply, accepting the fraternal invitation.
"MOUNT VERNON, June 19, 1784.[24]
"Dear Sir: With pleasure, I received the invita- tion of the master and members of Lodge No. 39, to dine with them on the approaching anniversary of St. John the Baptist. If nothing unforeseen at present interferes, I will have the honor of doing it. For the polite and flattering terms in which you have expressed their wishes, you will please accept my thanks."
"With esteem and respect, "I am, dear sir, "Your most Ob't serv't "Go. Washington"
"Wm. Herbert, Esquire."
PLACE OF MEETING OF ALEXANDRIA LODGE, No. 39, ON PENNSYLVANIA REGISTER, ALEXANDRIA VIRGINIA, WHERE GENERAL WASHINGTON ACCEPTED HONORARY MEMBERSHIP, JUNE 24, 1784.
No copy of this invitation nor acceptance, has thus far been found among the Washington papers.
The original of this letter is also said to be among the relics of Alexandria-Washington Lodge, No. 22. As no fac-simile copy was obtainable, an engrossed copy for same was substituted in the collection of Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.
This banquet was held at Wise's tavern[25] and was participated in by WASHINGTON, who upon this festive occasion was elected an honorary Member of Lodge No. 39, upon the Pennsylvania register, and thus became a Pennsylvania Freemason, and his name is duly recorded as such upon the minutes of Lodge No. 39.
This fact further contradicts the Anti-Masonic arguments based upon the Snyder letter so extensively used during the years 1826-1833, that WASHINGTON never belonged to any Masonic Lodge, after his initiation in the Fredericksburg Lodge in 1752.
The above note as recorded upon the Minutes of Alexandria Lodge, No. 39, shows that WASHINGTON was in complete harmony with the Masonic Fraternity; further, that by his acceptance of membership, WASHINGTON became a Pennsylvania Mason.
Among the cherished relics in the Alexandria Lodge, there is none more valuable than the Masonic portrait of Brother WASHINGTON, which forms the frontispiece of this volume. This was painted from life in pastel, by William Williams, at Philadelphia in 1794.
In the year 1910 a fac-simile of this portrait was made in oil by Miss Fanny M. Burke, an artist of repute, and a great-granddaughter of Thomas Jefferson. This replica made for the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania is the only one ever made of this portrait and shows Brother WASHINGTON as a man and Mason, neither heroized nor idealized.[26]
=GEORGE WASHINGTON
BY JEAN ANTOINE HOUDON, 1785.=
Footnotes:
[24] "Washington and his Masonic Compeers," by Sidney Hayden, New York, 1866, p. 104.
[25] John Wise's tavern, in which the above Masonic Banquet was held, is a large three-story brick building still standing on high ground at the northeast corner of Cameron and Fairfax Streets, Alexandria. At that time it had an unobstructed view of the Potomac.
[26] Vide "Abstract of Proceedings of the Proceedings Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, During the Year 1910," pp. 110-117.
IV
CORRESPONDENCE WITH KING DAVID'S LODGE, NO. 1, RHODE ISLAND, AUGUST, 1790.
The next correspondence in chronological order is the letter, sent in reply to the Address delivered by the Brethren of King David's Lodge, No. 1, at Newport, Rhode Island, to President WASHINGTON, August 17, 1790, during his visit to New England.
By referring to the Minutes of this old Lodge following entry is found:
"At a Lodge, called by request of several Breth- "ren on Tuesday evening, August 17, 5790, an "Entered Apprentice Lodge being opened in due "form proceeded to business, when it was proposed "to address the President of the United States. "The R. W. Master (Moses Seixas) Henry Sher- "burne, and the Secretary, [William Littlefield] "were appointed a committee for that purpose, "after which the Lodge closed."[27]
Following address was prepared and according to local tradition was publicly presented, by the Committee to President WASHINGTON, in the Venerable Sanctuary of the Jewish Congregation at Newport; the Brethren of King David's Lodge being present:
"TO GEORGE WASHINGTON, President of the United States of America.
"We the Master, Wardens, and Brethren of "King David's Lodge in New Port Rhode Island "with joyful hearts embrace this opportunity to "greet you as a Brother, and to hail you welcome "to Rhode Island. We exult in the thought that "as Masonry has always been patronised by the "wise, the good, and the great, so that it stood "and ever will stand, as its fixtures are on the "immutable pillars of faith, hope, and charity.
"With unspeakable pleasure we gratulate "you as filling the presidential chair with the "applause of a numerous and enlightened people "Whilst at the same time we felicitate ourselves "in the honor done the brotherhood by your many "exemplary virtues and emanations of goodness "proceeding from a heart worthy of possessing "the ancient mysteries of our craft; being persuaded "that the wisdom and grace with which heaven "has endowed you, will square all your thoughts, "words, and actions by the eternal laws of honor, "equity, and truth, so as to promote the advancement "of all good works, your own happiness, and that "of mankind.
"Permit us then, illustrious Brother, "cordially to salute you with three times three "and to add our fervent supplications that the "sovereign architect of the universe may always "encompass you with his holy protection.
"MOSES SEIXAS[28] Master "New Port Augt 17, 1790. Committee. "HY SHERBURNE "By order "WM LITTLEFIELD, Secy."
Brother Moses Seixas was born in New York, March 28, 1744; died in New York City, November 29, 1809. He was a merchant in Newport, Rhode Island, and one of the founders of the Newport Bank of Rhode Island, of which he was cashier until his death. He succeeded Brother Moses M. Hays as Worshipful Master of King David's Lodge at Newport. He was also the first Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Rhode Island. It was Moses Seixas who addressed a letter of welcome in the name of the Jewish congregation to GEORGE WASHINGTON when the latter visited Newport, and it was to him that WASHINGTON's answer was addressed.
The Town Hall at Newport being out of repair at that time the ancient Jewish Synagogue on the main street was used, upon that and several other public occasions. It is an interesting fact that this sacred edifice is still preserved in the same condition as it was during the Colonial period.
So far as known this address was the first of Masonic import made to WASHINGTON as President. Unfortunately, the exact date of presentation and receipt of his answer is not known to a certainty, as there does not appear to be any date upon either the original documents or the copies in WASHINGTON's letter book.
The original address and WASHINGTON's reply to the Master, Wardens and Brethren of King David's Lodge in Newport, the latter signed in autograph by WASHINGTON, are in the Athenaeum collection at Boston, Massachusetts.[29]
Following copy of the President's answer is taken from his letter book.[30] Both address and answer in the letter book are in the handwriting of Major William Jackson, secretary to the President.
A photostat of the original entry is in the Archives of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. It will be noted that there is neither place nor date given.
FAC-SIMILE OF REPLY TO KING DAVID'S LODGE, NO. 1, NEWPORT, R. I. LETTER BOOK II, FOLIO 29.
President WASHINGTON arrived at Newport, R.I., at eight o'clock on Tuesday morning, August 17, 1790. On the next day, Wednesday, the President and his suite left on the Packet "Hancock" at nine o'clock in the morning for Providence.
His company consisted of Governor Clinton of New York, Thomas Jefferson, Secretary of State, Senator Theodore Foster, Judge Blair, Mr. Smith of South Carolina and Mr. Gorman of New Hampshire; members of Congress.[31]
WASHINGTON left Providence, Saturday, August 21, and arrived in New York upon the following day, Sunday, August 22, 1790,[32] and sent the following reply to the Newport Brethren:
"TO THE MASTER, WARDENS, AND BRETHREN OF "KING DAVIDS LODGE IN NEWPORT RHODE ISLAND."
"Gentlemen,
"I receive the welcome which you "give me to Rhode Island with pleasure, and I "acknowledge my obligations for the flattering "expressions of regard, contained in your address, "with grateful sincerity.
"Being persuaded that a just "application of the principles, on which the Masonic "Fraternity is founded, must be promotive of "private virtue and public prosperity, I shall "always be happy to advance the interests of "the Society, and to be considered by them as "a deserving brother.
"My best wishes, Gentlemen, "are offered for your individual happiness."[33]
"Go. Washington"
FAC-SIMILE OF NOTICE SENT TO BROTHER WASHINGTON AT MOUNT VERNON TO ATTEND HIS LODGE. TREASURED BY THE WIFE OF PRESIDENT MADISON UNTIL HER DEATH. ORIGINAL IN ARCHIVES OF GRAND LODGE OF PENNSYLVANIA. MSS. VOL. A, FOLIO 81.
Footnotes:
[27] A copy of the Extracts from the Records of King David's Lodge, No. 1, as made by Ara Hildreth, Esq., is in the Archives of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, Mss. Volume Q, R.I. 7.
Cf. also a verified copy of the Minute in "Proceedings of the Anti-Masonic Republican Convention of Massachusetts, Boston, 1832," p. 22.
[28] Vide "The Jews and Masonry in the United States," by Samuel Oppenheim, New York, 1810, p. 22 et seq.
[29] Cf. "Catalogue of the Washington Collection in the Boston Athenaeum," Boston, 1897, p. 331.
[30] Letterbook II, p. 29.
[31] Cf. "Washington after the Revolution," W. S. Baker, Philadelphia, 1898, p. 192.
[32] Cf. Pennsylvania Packet, August 30-31 1790.
[33] Copy of Address in Letter Book II, pp. 27-28, Photostat of same in Archives of Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.
V
CORRESPONDENCE WITH ST. JOHN'S LODGE, NO. 2 AT NEWBERN, N. C., APRIL, 1791.
The next Masonic letter of President WASHINGTON was written, in answer to an address by the brethren of St. John's Lodge, No. 2, at Newbern, North Carolina, during his southern tour in 1791.
April 7, 1791, WASHINGTON started on a tour through the Southern States, by way of Fredericksburg, Richmond, and Petersburg, Virginia; Halifax, Tarborough, Newbern, and Wilmington, North Carolina; Georgetown, and Charleston, South Carolina; and Savannah, Georgia.
When advice of this proposed presidential visit reached Newbern, the brethren of St. John's Lodge, No. 2,[34] at the stated meeting held on April 1, 1791, passed the following resolution. "Resolved, that an address shall be presented to Brother GEORGE WASHINGTON, in behalf of this Lodge, on his arriving in this town."[35]
Upon his arrival at Newbern, N. C., April 20, following address was presented to the President,[36] which, together with the reply, has thus far never been in print or noted:
"TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.
"The Address of St Johns Lodge No. 2 of Newbern.
"Right Worshipful Sir,
"We the Master, Officers, and Members of St. "Johns Lodge No 2, of Newbern, beg leave to hail "you welcome with three times three.
"We approach you not with the language of "adulation, but sincere fraternal affection—your "works having proved you to be the true and faith- "ful brother, the skilful and expert Craftsman, the "just and upright man, But the powers of elo- "quence are too feeble to express with sufficient "energy the cordial warmth with which our bosoms "glow toward you.
"We therefore most ardently wish, most fervently "and devoutly pray, That the Providence of the "most high may strengthen, establish, and protect "you, in your walk through this life; and when you "shall be called off from your terrestrial labours by "command of our divine grand master, and your "operations sealed with the mark of his approbation, "may your soul be eternally refreshed with the "streams of living water which flow at the right "hand of God, and when the supreme architect of "all worlds shall collect his most precious jewels as "ornaments of the celestial Jerusalem, may you "everlastingly shine among those of the brightest "lustre.
"We are in our own behalf, and that of the "Members of this Lodge,
"Right worshipful Sir; "St Johns Lodge No. 2. "Your true and faithful brethren "April 20th 5791. "ISAAC GUION Master. "SAMUEL CHAPMAN Senior Warden. "WILLIAM JOHNSTON, Junior Warden. "SOLOMON HALLING, EDW. PASTEUR, JAS CARNEY, "F. LOWTHROP. "Members of the Committee."
FAC-SIMILE OF ADDRESS FROM ST. JOHN'S LODGE, NO. 2, NEWBERN, N. C. LETTER BOOK II, FOLIO 47-48.
Brothers: Isaac Guion, Worshipful Master, Samuel Chapman, Senior Warden, William Johnston, Junior Warden, and Solomon Halling, signers to above petition had all seen service in the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. Brother Guion served as Surgeon and Paymaster; Brother Chapman, Captain in 8th North Carolina, serving until the close of the War; Brother Johnston, Captain in North Carolina Militia and present at Kings Mountain.
Brother Hailing was Surgeon of the 4th Carolina Regiment and served until the close of the War.
WASHINGTON'S REPLY[37] TO THE BRETHREN OF ST. JOHN'S LODGE.
"TO THE MASTER, WARDENS, AND MEMBERS OF ST "JOHN'S LODGE NO. 2 OF NEWBERN.
"Gentlemen,
"I receive the cordial welcome which you "are pleased to give me with sincere gratitude.
"My best ambition having ever aimed at "the unbiassed approbation of my fellow-citizens, "it is peculiarly pleasing to find my conduct "so affectionately approved by a fraternity whose as- "sociation is founded in justice and benevolence.
"In reciprocating the wishes contained "in your address, be persuaded that I offer a sincere "prayer for your present and future happiness.
"Go. Washington"
"At the following Meeting of St. John's Lodge, No. 2, April 29, 1791, the Master laid before the Lodge the answer of Brother George Washington ordered that it be read, which being done, Resolved that it be entered on Minutes of this Lodge."[38] "The Address to Brother Washington and his answer are both on the Minutes of the Lodge. The original letter may have been lost during the late unpleasantness, as the Lodge lost nearly everything it possessed."[39]
Footnotes:
[34] In the latter part of the eighteenth century, St. John's Lodge, No. 2, at Newbern, was very active, at which time it built a two-story theatre and Masonic Hall, and took part in a number of local matters.
[35] Extract from Minutes by Brother J. F. Rhem, M.D., Newbern, N. C.
[36] Letter Book 2, pp. 47-48 in Library of Congress, Washington, D. C.; photostat in Archives of Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.
[37] Ibid., p. 49; photostat in Archives of Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.
[38] Extract from Minutes by Brother J. F. Rhem, M.D., Newbern, N. C.
[39] Brother J. F. Rhem, Newbern, N. C., in letter to Brother A. B. Andrews, Jr., December 14, 1914.
VI
CORRESPONDENCE WITH PRINCE GEORGE'S LODGE, NO. 16, GEORGETOWN, S. C., APRIL, 1791.
WASHINGTON left Newbern, North Carolina, under an escort of horse, April 22, 1791, and arrived at Georgetown, South Carolina, by way of Wilmington, N. C., Saturday, April 30, where he was received with a salute of cannon, and by a company of infantry, and during the afternoon was presented with the following address, by a Committee of Prince George's Lodge, No. 16 (Moderns), of Georgetown, South Carolina.
This Lodge was one of the original six Lodges, which had been warranted prior to 1756 in South Carolina, under the Jurisdiction of the Provincial Grand Lodge, and through it, the Grand Lodge of England. It is the only instance where a Lodge of the "Moderns" addressed Brother WASHINGTON:
"TO OUR ILLUSTRIOUS BROTHER GEORGE WASHINGTON.
"President of the United States.
"At a time when all men are emulous to approach "you to express the lively sensations you inspire as "the Father of our country. Permit us the Brethren "of Prince George's Lodge No. 16 to have our share "in the general happiness in welcoming you to "Georgetown, and the pleasure of reflecting that we "behold in you the liberator of our country. the "distributor of its equal laws, and a Brother of our "most ancient and most honorable Order.
"At the same time indulge us in congratulating "you on the truly honorable and happy situation in "which you now stand, as the Grand Conductor of "the political interests of these United States.
"Having by your manly efforts caused the beau- "teous light of liberty to beam on this western hemi- "sphere, and by the wisdom Heaven has graciously "endowed you with established the liberties of "America on the justest and firmest basis that was "ever yet recorded in the annuals of history, you "now enjoy the supremest of all earthly happiness "that of diffusing peace, liberty, and safety to mil- "lions of your fellow-citizens.
"As a true reward for your patriotic, noble and "exalted services we fervently pray the Grand Archi- "tect of the universe long to bless you with health, "stability, and power to continue you the Grand "Pillar of the arch of liberty in this vast empire, "which you have been so eminently distinguished in "raising to this pitch of perfection at which we now "behold it.
"May the residue of your life be spent in ease "content and happiness, and as the Great Parent of "these United States may you long live to see your "children flourish under your happy auspices and "may you be finally rewarded with eternal happiness.
"We conclude our present address with a fervent "wish that you will continue as you have hitherto "been, the friend of our ancient and honorable "Order, and of all worthy Masons.
"I. WHITE "R. GRANT Committee from "AB. COHEN Prince George's Lodge. "JOS. BLYTH. "J. CARSON.
"George Town 30th April 1791."
Of the above signers, three of the brethren had served in the War for Independence, viz.: Brother Isaac White, Lieutenant in North Carolina Militia at Kings Mountain; Brother Reuben Grant, Ensign in the 6th North Carolina Infantry, and Brother Joseph Blythe, Surgeon in 1st North Carolina Regiment, taken prisoner at Charleston, May 12th, 1780; exchanged June 14, 1781; in 4th North Carolina in February, 1782, and served to close of war.
FAC-SIMILE OF ADDRESS FROM THE BRETHREN OF PRINCE GEORGE'S LODGE, FOLIO NO. 16, GEORGETOWN, SOUTH CAROLINA, APRIL, 1791. LETTER BOOK II, 59-60.
The following reply unfortunately bears no date. Both address and reply were entered in Washington Letter Book, No. II, folio 60-61. It is not known what has became of the originals. No notice or copies of either of the above documents have thus far been published.
WASHINGTON'S REPLY.
"TO THE BRETHREN OF PRINCE GEORGE'S LODGE, NO. 16.
"Gentlemen:
"The cordial welcome which you give me "to George Town, and the congratulations, you are "pleased to offer on my election to the chief "magistracy receive my grateful thanks.
"I am much obliged by your good wishes "and reciprocate them with sincerity, assuring the "fraternity of my esteem, I request them to believe "that I shall always be ambitious of being considered "a deserving Brother.
Go. Washington
=GENERAL MORDECAI GIST.
B. BALTIMORE, MD., 1743. D. CHARLESTON, S. C., 1792.
WHO, AS GRAND MASTER OF SOUTH CAROLINA, SIGNED THE ADDRESS TO BROTHER WASHINGTON.=
VII
CORRESPONDENCE WITH GRAND LODGE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, MAY, 1791.
President WASHINGTON left Georgetown at six o'clock in the evening, May 1, 1791, reaching Charleston, South Carolina, Monday, May 2, in a twelve-oared barge rowed by twelve American captains of ships accompanied by a great number of boats with gentlemen and ladies in them, and two boats with music.[40] Brother WASHINGTON remained in Charleston until May 9.
Wednesday, May 4, 1791, General Mordecai Gist, an old companion in arms of WASHINGTON, and formerly Master of the Military Lodge in the Maryland line (No. 27 upon the register of Pennsylvania),[41] but now Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Ancient York Masons of South Carolina, attended by the other present and past grand officers,[42] waited on their beloved brother, the president of the United States, and presented the following address:[43]
"Sir—Induced by a respect for your public and private character, as well as the relation in which you stand with the brethren of this society, we the Grand Lodge of the State of South Carolina, Ancient York Masons, beg leave to offer our sincere congratulations on your arrival in this state.
"We felicitate you on the establishment and exercise of a permanent government, whose foundation was laid under your auspices by military achievements, upon which have been progressively reared the pillars of the free republic over which you preside, supported by wisdom, strength, and beauty unrivalled among the nations of the world.
"The fabric thus raised and committed to your superintendence, we earnestly wish may continue to produce order and harmony to succeeding ages, and be the asylum of virtue to the oppressed of all parts of the universe.
"When we contemplate the distresses of war, the instances of humanity displayed by the Craft afford some relief to the feeling mind; and it gives us the most pleasing sensation to recollect, that amidst the difficulties attendant on your late military stations, you still associated with, and patronized the Ancient Fraternity.
"Distinguished always by your virtues, more than the exalted stations in which you have moved, we exult in the opportunity you now give us of hailing you brother of our Order, and trust from your knowledge of our institution, to merit your countenance and support.
"With fervent zeal for your happiness, we pray that a life so dear to the bosom of this society, and to society in general, may be long, very long preserved; and when you leave the temporal symbolic lodges of this world, may you be received into the celestial lodge of light and perfection, where the Grand Master Architect of the Universe presides.
"Done in behalf of the Grand Lodge.
"M. GIST, G. M."[44]
"Charleston, 2d May, 1791."
To this address WASHINGTON returned the following reply.[45]
"Gentlemen:—I am much obliged by the respect which you are so good as to declare for my public and private character. I recognize with pleasure my relation to the brethren of your Society, and I accept with gratitude your congratulations on my arrival in South Carolina.
"Your sentiments, on the establishment and exercise of our equal government, are worthy of an association, whose principles lead to purity of morals, and are beneficial of action.
"The fabric of our freedom is placed on the enduring basis of public virtue, and will, I fondly hope, long continue to protect the prosperity of the architects who raised it. I shall be happy, on every occasion, to evince my regard for the Fraternity. For your prosperity individually, I offer my best wishes."
"Go. Washington"
This letter was probably destroyed with other Grand Lodge property when Columbia, South Carolina, was burned by Sherman's Army during the war between the States.[46]
Fortunately, the original draft of WASHINGTON's reply, was found among the Washington papers now in the Library of Congress. This is written upon two pages of a letter sheet: the first page shows a paragraph which was suppressed and did not appear upon the clear copy sent to the Grand Lodge of Ancient York Masons of South Carolina.
A photostat of this draft is in the collection of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, viz.:
"TO THE GRAND LODGE OF THE STATE OF SOUTH "CAROLINA ANCIENT YORK MASONS.
"Gentlemen,
"I am much obliged by the respect "which you are so good as to declare for my "public and private character. I recognise "with pleasure my relation to the Brethren "of your Society—and I accept with gratitude "your congratulations on my arrival in "South Carolina.
"Your felicitations It is peculiarly general "pleasing to observe the ^ satisfaction expressed "on the establishment and exercise of the "federal government— "Your sentiments on the establishment "and exercise of our equal government are "worthy of an association, whose principles "lead to purity of morals, and beneficence "of action—The fabric of our freedom "is placed on the enduring basis of "public virtue, and will long continue "to protect the Posterity of the architects "who raised it.
"I shall be happy on every regard "occasion to evince my respect for the "Fraternity, for whose happiness individually "I offer my best wishes.
"Go. Washington"
=FAC-SIMILE OF DRAFT OF WASHINGTON'S REPLY TO ADDRESS FROM GRAND LODGE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, MAY, 1791.
HANDWRITING OF MAYOR WILLIAM JACKSON.=
Upon the first page the four lines commencing with "Your felicitations" and ending with "federal government" were crossed out, and as above stated, were not in the reply sent to R. W. Grand Master Gist and his officers.
In the third line from the bottom the word "regard" is substituted for "respect."
Brother Gist was the original Warrant Master of the Regimental Lodge in the Maryland line, No. 27, on the Roster of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. After the war, Brother Gist settled in Charleston, South Carolina, retaining his old Military Warrant, and, in 1786, applied to the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, to renew this warrant, for a Lodge to be located at Charleston under the same number. This request was granted, and Brother Gist was again named as Warrant Master.
At the formation of the Grand Lodge of South Carolina Ancient York Masons in 1787, Brother Gist was elected Deputy Grand Master and served as such during the years 1787-88-89, and as Grand Master, 1790-1791.
Footnotes:
[40] Washington's Diary.
[41] Cf. "Old Masonic Lodges in Pennsylvania," Philadelphia, 1913, Vol. 2, p. 53 et seq.
[42] Brother William Drayton, Past Grand Master; Brother Mordecai Gist, Grand Master; Brother Thomas B. Bowen, Deputy Grand Master; Brother George Miller, Senior Grand Warden; Brother John Mitchell, Junior Grand Warden; Brother Thomas Gates, Grand Chaplain; Brother Robert Knox, Grand Treasurer; Brother Alexandrer Alexander, Grand Secretary; Brother Israel Meyers, Grand Tiler.
[43] City Gazette, Friday, May 6, 1791, p. 2, column 4.
[44] For full account of Lodge 27 and Brother Gist, vide "Old Masonic Lodges of Pennsylvania," before quoted, Vol. II, pp. 53-63.
[45] Cf. Hayden, "Washington and his Masonic Compeers," p. 135.
[46] William C. Mazyck, Right Worshipful Grand Secretary, G. L. of South Carolina.
VIII
CORRESPONDENCE WITH GRAND LODGE OF GEORGIA, MAY, 1791.
On the way from Charleston, South Carolina, to Savannah, Georgia, WASHINGTON called on Mrs. Greene, the widow of late Brother General Nathaniel Greene, at her plantation called Mulberry Grove, reaching Savannah, Georgia, on the evening of Thursday, May 12, 1791.
Saturday, May 14, WASHINGTON was waited on by Brethren of the Grand Lodge of Georgia and presented with the following address:[47]
"TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES.
"Sir, and Brother,
"The Grand Master, Officers and Members of the "Grand Lodge of Georgia, beg leave to congratulate "you on your arrival in this city. Whilst your ex- "alted character claims the respect and deference of "all men, they from the benevolence of masonic prin- "ciples approach you with the familiar declaration "of fraternal affection.
"Happy indeed that Society, renowned for its "antiquity, and pervading influence over the en- "lightened world, which having ranked a Frederick "at its head, can now boast of a Washington as a "Brother. A Brother who it justly hailed the Re- "deemer of his country, raised it to glory, and by his "conduct in public and private life has evinced to "Monarchs that true majesty consists not in splendid "royalty, but in intrinsic worth.
"With these sentiments they rejoice at your pres- "ence in this State, and in common with their fellow- "citizens, greet you, thrice welcome, flattering them- "selves that your stay will be made agreeable.
"May the great Architect of the Universe pre- "serve you whilst engaged in the work allotted you "on earth, and long continue you the brightest pil- "lar of our Temple, and when the supreme fiat shall "summon you hence, they pray the might I AM "may take you into his holy keeping,
"Grand Lodge in Savannah "May 14th 5791. "GEO: HOUSTON, "Grand Master."
BRO. WASHINGTON'S REPLY TO ADDRESS FROM THE GRAND LODGE OF GEORGIA, MAY, 1791. LETTER BOOK II, FOLIO 78.
Upon the next day, Sunday, May 15, after attending the morning church service, WASHINGTON left Savannah and set out for Augusta, Georgia, halting for dinner at Mulberry Grove, the seat of Mrs. Nathaniel Greene. The following reply to the Masonic address was sent to the Grand Lodge of Georgia,[48] both address and reply now first published:
"TO THE GRAND MASTER, OFFICERS AND MEMBERS "OF THE GRAND LODGE OF GEORGIA.
"Gentlemen,
"I am much obliged by your congratulations "on my arrival in this city, and I am highly indebted "to your favorable opinions.
"Every circumstance contributes to "render my stay in Savannah agreeable, and it "is cause of regret to me that it must be so "short.
"My best wishes are offered for the welfare "of the fraternity, and for your particular happiness.
"Go. Washington"
=PRESIDENT WASHINGTON'S RESIDENCE IN PHILADELPHIA, A. D. 1790 A. D. 1797.
WHERE THE MASONIC ADDRESSES OF THE GRAND LODGE OF PENNSYLVANIA WERE DELIVERED.
FROM A CONTEMPORARY WATER COLOR PAINTING BELONGING TO THE LIBRARY COMPANY OF PHILADELPHIA.
THE FIGURES ARE THOSE OF WASHINGTON AND ROBERT MORRIS.=
Footnotes:
[47] Washington Letter Book, II, folio 77. Photostat in Archives of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.
[48] Address and Reply, Letter Book II, folio 77-78.
IX
CORRESPONDENCE WITH GRAND LODGE OF PENNSYLVANIA, JANUARY 3, 1792.
During the Presidential term of Brother WASHINGTON, the President, when in Philadelphia, lived in a large double three-story brick mansion, on the south side of Market Street, sixty feet east of Sixth Street, the site of which is now occupied by three stores, viz.: Nos. 526, 528, 530.
The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania then held its meetings in the upper floor of the Meeting house of the Free Quakers, still standing, at the southwest corner of Arch and Fifth Streets; this was but a short distance from the presidential mansion. Brother WASHINGTON was undoubtedly personally acquainted with many of its members, especially such as had been officers during the Revolution, and were fellow members of the Cincinnati.
On St. John's Day, December 27, 1791, a Grand Lodge was opened in ample form,[49] and the Minutes of the last Grand Communication were read, as far as concerns the election of Grand Officers.
The Grand Officers upon this occasion were:
Brother Jonathan Bayard Smith, R. W. Grand Master.
Brother Joseph Few, Deputy Grand Master.
Brother Thomas Procter, Senior Grand Warden.
Brother Gavin Hamilton, Junior Grand Warden.
Brother Peter Le Barbier Duplessis, Grand Secretary.
Brother Benjamin Mason, Grand Treasurer.
The Rev. Brother Dr. William Smith then addressed the Brethren in an oration suitable to the Grand Day, and the thanks of the Lodge were given to said Brother William Smith for the same.
After which, on motion and seconded, the Rev. Brother Dr. Smith and the Right Worshipful Grand Officers were appointed a Committee to prepare an address to our Illustrious Brother GEORGE WASHINGTON, President of the United States; and this Lodge was adjourned to the second day of January next to receive the report of said Committee.
"PHILADELPHIA, January 2d, 1792.
"Grand Lodge, By Adjournment,[50]
"A Grand Lodge was opened in ample form, and the Minutes of St. John's Day being read as far as relates to the appointment of a Committee to prepare an Address to our illustrious Brother George Washington, The Revd. Bro. Dr. Wm. Smith, one of the said Committee, presented the Draft of one which was read, Whereupon, on Motion and Seconded, the same was unanimously approved of, and Resolved, That the Rt. Wt. Grand Master, Depy. G. Master, and Grand Officers, with the Revd Bro. Smith, be a Committee to present the said Address in behalf of this Rt. Wt. Grand Lodge, signed by the Right Worshipful Grand Master, and Countersigned by the Grand Secretary.
"Lodge closed at half past 9 o'clock in Harmony."
Following is the address presented to Brother WASHINGTON. Both the original draft in the handwriting of Brother William Smith, showing minor alterations, as well as a fair copy, are in the archives of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.[51]
"TO HIS EXCELLENCY GEORGE WASHINGTON, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES.
"Sir and Brother:
"The Ancient York Masons of the Jurisdiction of Pennsylvania, for the first time assembled in General Communication to celebrate the Feast of St. John the Evangelist, since your Election to the Chair of Government in the United States, beg leave to approach you with Congratulations from the East, and in the pride of Fraternal affection to hail you as the Great Master Builder (under the Supreme Architect) by whose labours the Temple of Liberty hath been reared in the West, exhibiting to the Nations of the Earth a Model of Beauty, Order and Harmony worthy of their Imitation and Praise.
"Your Knowledge of the Origin and Objects of our Institution; its Tendency to promote the Social Affections and harmonize the Heart, give us a sure pledge that this tribute of our Veneration, this Effusion of our Love will not be ungrateful to you; nor will Heaven reject our Prayer that you may be long continued to adorn the bright list of Master workmen which our Fraternity in the terrestrial Lodge; and that you may be late removed to that Celestial Lodge where love and Harmony reign transcendent and Divine; where the great Architect more immediately presides, and where Cherubim and Seraphim, wafting our Congratulations from Earth to Heaven, shall hail you Brother.
(Seal) "By order and in behalf of the Grand "Lodge of Pennsylvania in general Com- "munication assembled in ample form.
"J B Smith
(Signed) G.M.
[Illegible Signature]
"Attest: Gd. Secry."
=FAC-SIMILE OF THE ORIGINAL ADDRESS READ BEFORE PRESIDENT WASHINGTON BY REV. BRO. WILLIAM SMITH, D.D., JANUARY 3, 1792.
ORIGINAL IN ARCHIVES OF GRAND LODGE OF PENNSYLVANIA. MSS.—VOLUME A.—FOLIO.—21.=
On January 3, 1792, Jonathan Bayard Smith, the Right Worshipful Grand Master, together with the Grand Officers and Rev. Brother William Smith called on the President and delivered the above address.
The deputation was received in the dining room of the presidential mansion. This was a room about thirty feet long, and where WASHINGTON was accustomed to receive delegations.
At the Quarterly Communication held March 5, 1792, the Right Worshipful Grand Master Jonathan B. Smith informed the Brethren that, in conformity to the resolve of this Grand Lodge, he had, in company with the Grand Officers and the Rev. Brother Dr. Smith, presented the address to our illustrious Brother GEORGE WASHINGTON and had received an answer, which was read.
"TO THE ANCIENT YORK MASONS OF THE "JURISDICTION OF PENNSYLVANIA.
"Gentlemen and Brothers,
"I receive your kind Congratulations "with the purest sensations of fraternal affection:—and "from a heart deeply impressed with your generous "wishes for my present and future happiness, I beg "you to accept my thanks.
"At the same time I request you will "be assured of my best wishes and earnest prayers "for your happiness while you remain in this terres- "tial Mansion, and that we may thereafter meet "as brethren in the Eternal Temple of the "Supreme Architect.
"Go. Washington"
FAC-SIMILE OF WASHINGTON'S REPLY TO GRAND LODGE OF PENNSYLVANIA, JANUARY, 1792. ORIGINAL IN ARCHIVES OF THE GRAND LODGE.
=WASHINGTON'S MASONIC APRON.
EMBROIDERED BY MADAM LAFAYETTE; PRESENTED AUGUST, 1784, BY BRO. GEN. LAFAYETTE TO BRO. GEN. WASHINGTON; PRESENTED OCTOBER 26, 1816, BY THE LEGATEES OF BRO. WASHINGTON TO THE WASHINGTON BENEVOLENT SOCIETY OF PENNSYLVANIA; PRESENTED JULY 3, 1829, BY THE WASHINGTON BENEVOLENT SOCIETY TO THE R. W. GRAND LODGE, F. &. A. M. OF PENNSYLVANIA.
ORIGINAL APRON IN MUSEUM OF THE GRAND LODGE.=
Whereupon, on motion and seconded, Resolved, unanimously, that the said address and the answer thereto, shall be entered on the minutes.
This answer, in possession of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, is in the handwriting of Tobias Lear, who was the private secretary of the President, and for years attended to the details of WASHINGTON's domestic affairs, and was liberally remembered by him in his will.
The letter was signed by WASHINGTON, who had both the address and answer copied verbatim in one of his letter books[52] by Bartholomew Dandridge, secretary to the President. A photostat copy of above, together with the original answer by WASHINGTON is in the Archives of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.
This address was read by Rev. Brother William Smith, one of the most noted Episcopal preachers in Philadelphia, and the first Provost of the College of Philadelphia, now the University of Pennsylvania. Brother William Smith, D.D., had been an active member of the Masonic Fraternity in Pennsylvania for forty years; he was the Chaplain of the Grand Lodge of Moderns for almost a quarter of a century. In winter of 1778 he joined the Grand Lodge of Ancient York Masons, and for some time served as Grand Secretary.[53]
Jonathan Bayard Smith, the Grand Master of Pennsylvania, was one of Philadelphia's prominent citizens. During the Revolutionary period he was an ardent patriot; he was among the earliest of those who espoused the cause of independence. In 1775 he was chosen secretary of the Committee of Safety, and in February, 1777, he was elected by the assembly a delegate to the Continental Congress. He was a second time chosen to this post, serving in the congresses of 1777-8. From April 4, 1777, till Nov. 13, 1778, he was prothonotary of the court of Common Pleas.
On December 1, 1777, he presided at the public meeting, in Philadelphia, of "Real Whigs," by whom it was resolved "That it be recommended to the council of safety that in this great emergency ... every person between the age of sixteen and fifty years be ordered out under arms." During this year he was commissioned lieutenant-colonel of a battalion of "Associators."
=J B SMITH
B. FEB. 21, 1742; D. JUNE 16, 1812.
GRAND MASTER OF MASONS IN PENNSYLVANIA, 1789-1794.=
In 1778 he was appointed a justice of the court of Common Pleas, Quarter Sessions, and Orphans' Court, which post he held for many years. He was appointed in 1781, one of the auditors of the accounts of Pennsylvania troops in the service of the United States. In 1792, and subsequently, he was chosen an alderman of the city, which was an office of great dignity in his day, and in 1794 he was elected auditor-general of Pennsylvania.
Brother Jonathan B. Smith was an active member of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. He was the Senior Grand Warden in 1786, at the time when the Provincial Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania: "Resolved, that the Grand Lodge is, and ought to be perfectly independent and free of any such foreign jurisdiction."[54]
In the two following years he was appointed Deputy Grand Master by Right Worshipful Grand Master William Adcock; he was elected Right Worshipful Grand Master in 1789 and served in that capacity for six years (1789-1794). In the year 1798 he was again elected to that honorable office, serving five more consecutive years (1798 to 1802), when he declined reelection. The following action was taken by the Grand Lodge:[55]
"On Motion made and Seconded the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania impressed with a grateful sense of the long assiduous and highly useful labours of their late R. W. Grand Master, Bror Jonathan Bayard Smith, Esqr, previous to and during his service in the high Station which he has left, Resolved Unanimously, That the most respectful Thanks of the said G. Lodge be presented to their said Brother Jonathan Bayard Smith for the eminent services he has rendered to the Craft generally and more especially for the able, diligent and impartial manner in which he has discharged the Duties of the Chair and while they deplore the necessity of his now retiring from the Official Station amongst them which he has so Honourably filled, they hope for a continuance of his Brotherly Love, Aid and information and finally that he be requested to receive the best wishes of the Grand Lodge for a prolongation of his useful life, a commensurate enjoyment of his Health and his final Happiness in the Mansion of Everlasting Rest."
Brother Joseph Few, Deputy Grand Master, was also a Revolutionary Soldier, having served as Regimental Quarter Master with the 4th Continental Artillery.
Brother Thomas Procter, Senior Grand Warden, formerly Colonel of the Pennsylvania Artillery, and Warrant Master of the Military Lodge, No. 19, upon the Roster of Pennsylvania was prominent in both civil and political affairs during WASHINGTON's administration. A full account of Brother Thomas Procter and this Military Lodge will be found in the History of the Old Masonic Lodges of Pennsylvania, published by the Grand Lodge in 1913.[56]
For a sketch of Brother Peter Le Barbier Duplessis, the reader is referred to the same volume.[57]
=WASHINGTON'S PAST MASTER'S JEWEL.
Replica in the Museum of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.=
Footnotes:
[49] Reprint of Minutes of Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, Vol. I, p. 178.
[50] Ibid., p. 180.
[51] MSS. Volume A, folio 17, 19, 21.
[52] Letter Book II, pp. 104-105.
[53] Cf. "Old Masonic Lodges of Pennsylvania," Vol. I, p. 201.
[54] Cf. Reprint of Minutes of Grand Lodge, Vol. I, p. 96 et seq.
[55] Ibid., Vol. II, p. 68.
[56] Volume II, Chapter XXVI, pp. 1-36. Cf. also "Freemasonry in Pennsylvania," Vol. I and II, for various references to Col. Procter.
[57] Cf. "Old Lodges," Vol. II, pp. 256 et seq.
X
CORRESPONDENCE WITH GRAND LODGE OF MASSACHUSETTS, DECEMBER, 1792.
"At Grand Lodge held at Concert Hall, Boston, 10th of December, 5792, being a Quarterly Communication it was
"Resolved, That the Grand Master, with the Grand Wardens, present to our Most Beloved Brother
GEORGE WASHINGTON,
the new Book of Constitutions, with a suitable address."
At the next Quarterly Communication we find that,
"Agreeably to a resolve at the last Quarterly Communication, the Grand Master, with his Wardens, reported:
"That they had written to our beloved President and Brother, George Washington, and presented him with a Book of Constitutions, to which letter he had been pleased to make answer. The letter and answer were read, and Voted to be inserted in the records of the Grand Lodge."
This address was evidently sent to President WASHINGTON at Philadelphia, and was answered from the presidential office in that city. No date nor place appears upon either the original so far as known, nor the copy in the letter book, both address and reply therein being in the handwriting of Bartholomew Dandridge, Secretary to the President.
The following copy of both address and reply are taken from Letter Book II, folio 106-108.
"An Address of the Grand Lodge of Free & "Accepted Masons for the Commonwealth "of Massachusetts, To their honored and "Illustrious Brother.
GEORGE WASHINGTON.
"Whilst the Historian is describing the "career of your glory, and the inhabitants "of an extensive Empire are made happy "in your unexampled exertions:—whilst some "celebrate the Hero so distinguished in li- "berating United America; and others the Patriot "who presides over her Councils, a Band of bro- "thers, having always joined the acclamations "of their countrymen, now testify their res- "pect for those milder virtues which have "ever graced the man. |
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