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 BEQUEATHED TO CORNELL ■UNIVERSITY 
 
Cornell University Library 
 HS539.B87 C73 1903 
 
 History of Commonwealth Lodge. No. 409. 
 
 3 1924 030 289 122 
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The original of tiiis book is in 
 tine Cornell University Library. 
 
 There are no known copyright restrictions in 
 the United States on the use of the text. 
 
 http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924030289122 
 
HISTORY 
 
 of 
 COMMONWEALTH 
 
 LODGE 
 
 No. 409, F. ^ A. M. 
 
 THIRD MASONIC DISTRICT 
 NEW YORK 
 
 PUBLISHED BY 
 COMMONWEALTH LODGE 
 
 June 30, 1903 
 
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 PRESS OF ANDREW H. KELLCGS, 
 40B-41B PEARL ST. , iSEW YORK, N, Y, 
 
REPORT 
 
 of the 
 
 COMMITTEE ON HISTORY 
 
 of 
 
 COMMONWEALTH LODGE 
 
 No. 409, F. & A. M. 
 
 Brooklyn, N. Y., June, 1903. 
 
 To ihe Wor. Master^ Wardens, and Brethren of Oommonwealth 
 Lodge, No. 409, F. and A. M.: 
 
 Yoiir committee appointed to prepare a history of Common- 
 wealth Lodge, respectfully report as follows : 
 
 That in December, 1888, a committee consisting of James 
 M. Fuller, John T. Palmer, E. J. Campbell, G. Frank B. Pear- 
 eall, John W. Evans, and Theodore A. Taylor were appointed 
 to publish a history of the Lodge. The committee at that time 
 carefully and thoroughly examined the minutes of the Lodge 
 up to that date, and faithfully endeavored to the best of their 
 ability to glean from them all the important events therein tran- 
 scribed. Since that time many important events have transpired 
 which necessitated a revision of the history, carrying it forward to 
 the present day, the undersigned having been appointed for that 
 purpose. We have endeavored to present to the brethren a record 
 of some of the deeds of Masonic work which have made old Com- 
 monwealth so dear to the hearts of our brethren, and so well 
 known to Masons throughout the great jurisdiction of the State 
 of Kew York. 
 
 All of which is respectfully submitted. 
 
 Theodoee a. Tatloe, Chairman. 
 Edwaed J. Campbell, 
 John W. Evans, 
 
HISTO RY 
 
 of 
 COMMONWEALTH LODGE 
 
 No. 409 
 
 Commonwealth Lodge was established on the broad principles 
 of love, charity, and benevolence; and, as the name signifies, 
 " fhe common good or happiness." The founders were men of 
 liberal views, who in their previous Masonic connections had 
 been tinder severe restraint owing to the iHiberality of some of 
 their associates, and, in erecting a new Lodge, they determined 
 that " no pent up Utica should contract their powers." They 
 laid the foundation broad and deep, and were exceedingly care- 
 ful in the selection of building material, so that when the work 
 was finally commenced, " there was neither hammer nor axe nor 
 any tool of iron heard in the house while it was building." 
 
 The incident that led to the organization of Commonwealth 
 Lodge, was a division of sentiment among the members of Star 
 of Bethlehem Lodge in regard to the payment of the funeral 
 expenses of a deceased brother, a majority having decided not to 
 pay the bill. The small minority were indignant at this action 
 of a majority of their brethren, and paid the bill out of their 
 own pockets, at the same time asking for their dimits, which 
 were granted. The brethren who withdrew were: James M. 
 Fuller, Benjamin Price, Joseph Stockbridge, Frederick W. 
 Showering, Charles Weeks, Jr., William Howard, and Henry 
 Smith. It is but just to state that a more liberal and charitable 
 course has since characterized Star of Bethlehem Lodge, and 
 
b HISTOBT OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 
 
 the brethren of the present generation would discountenance 
 such action as unmasonic and uncharitable. The brethren who 
 withdrew hoped to find a home in another Lodge more in har- 
 mony with their liberal views. Failing in this, they decided 
 to organize a new Lodge; Bro. James M. FuUer, who was 
 familiarly known as " Pop " Fuller, was the leading spirit in 
 these initial movements. He obtained the following signatures 
 to the Application for a Dispensation from the Grand Lodge: 
 Eobert D. McChesney, Brooklyn, No. 388 ; James M. FuUer and 
 Benjamin Price, Star of Bethlehem, No. 322; Charles F. 
 Hermance, Frank Webb, and John D. Ammerman, Polar Star, 
 No. 245; William Howard, Joseph Stockbridge, Frederick W. 
 Showering, and Henry Smith, Star of Bethlehem, No. 322; 
 Eobert B. Turner, Brooklyn, No. 288. 
 
 The following persons were named in the Application for the 
 three principal offices: Eobert D. McChesney, Master; Benjamin 
 Price, Senior Warden, and James M. Puller, Junior Warden. 
 
 In addition to the foregoing, the following names, which were 
 subsequently added, constituted the Charter Members: Charles 
 Weeks, Jr., Star of Bethlehem, No. 322; John J. Byram and 
 James H. Clayton, Sylvan Grove, No. 275; James L. Smith, 
 Brooklyn, No. 288. 
 
 The Application, dated May 20, 1856, endorsed and strongly 
 recommended by Joppa Lodge, No. 201, met with strong op- 
 position from other quarters, but was finally granted and a Dis- 
 pensation issued May 25, signed by M.". W.'. Joseph D. Evans, 
 Grand Master. 
 
 The first meeting of the Lodge held under Dispensation, was 
 on June 3, 1856, at the corner of Court and Montague Streets, 
 with the following officers in their several places, viz.: E. D. 
 McChesney, Master; Benjamin Price, Senior Warden; James M. 
 Fuller, Junior Warden; Joseph Stockbridge, Treasurer; William 
 Howard, Secretary pro tern.; Charles F. Hermance and Frank 
 
HISTOKY 01' COMMONWEALTH LODGE. ' 
 
 Webb, Deacons. Seated in the East Wor. George B. Nicholl, 
 Past Master of Excelsior Lodge, No. 195 ; the latter brother was 
 a frequent visitor and a warm supporter of the Lodge, and often 
 assisted in the work. The following named brethren were ap- 
 pointed a committee to draft By-Laws : Benjamin Price, James 
 M. Fuller, and William Howard. 
 
 The first resolution adopted by the Lodge was a,vote of thanks 
 to Joppa Lodge for their unanimous recommendation of the 
 petition. The first work of the Lodge was the initiation of 
 Monroe F. Gale, on June 17, 1856. The By-Laws were adopted 
 on June 34, and on July 15 Bro. Monroe F. Gale was raised to 
 the sublime degree of Master Mason. On July 20 occurred the 
 first death, viz., Eobert B. Turner, a charter member. On July 
 29, with an exceedingly limited exchequer, the Lodge donated 
 the sum of $25 to benevolent purposes, thus fulfilling the pro- 
 verb : " There is that giveth and yet enricheth ; there is that 
 withholdeth and yet impoverisheth." 
 
 In all their efforts the Lodge received the hearty support 
 and cooperation of Joppa Lodge, whose members were frequent 
 visitors, and assisted in the work. On August 5, Bro. John 
 Hackett, of Joppa Lodge, presented Commonwealth with a set 
 of columns. 
 
 On October 9, the Lodge took part in the dedication of Anglo- 
 Saxon Hall, corner of Courb and Montague Streets. Common- 
 wealth rented the rooms of Anglo-Saxon Lodge, and continued to 
 meet on every Tuesday at this place until 1866 ; they then met 
 in Phoenix Hall, alternate Tuesdays and Saturdays, until April 
 28, 1868, when they moved to 317 Washington Street, which 
 they fitted up at great expense, and where they continued to meet 
 until January 23, 1894, when they removed to 153 Pierrepont 
 Street, to what is now known as " Commonwealth Hall." 
 
 Aided and encouraged by her sister Lodges in this locality, 
 Commonwealth persevered in the good work so auspiciously 
 
HISTORY OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 
 
 begun, and on March 31, 1857, received from the Grand Master 
 a congratulatory letter, which was read before the Lodge, but, 
 unfortunately, was not spread on the minutes, and has since be- 
 come mislaid or lost. On April 14, 1857, preparations 
 were made for celebrating the first anniversary of the organiza- 
 tion of the Lodge, and the procuring of the Warrant, which was 
 now a foregoije conclusion. The infant was about to lay aside 
 its swaddling clothes and start forth on its mission of love as a 
 full grown youth, with the motto of " Excelsior " inscribed on 
 its banner, to achjeve a success unparalleled in the history of 
 Masonry in Brooklyn. A committee was appointed at this com- 
 munication, consisting of Wor. Brothers McChesney, Price, and 
 Fuller, and Brothers Byram and Howard, to make suitable 
 arrangements for this event. 
 
 Application having been made to the Grand Lodge, a Warrant 
 was issued by M.'. W.'. John L. Lewis, Grand Master, under 
 the date of June 3, 1857, and on June 9 following a communi- 
 cation was held at the Lodge room for the purpose of having the 
 Lodge duly constituted and the officers installed. Grand Master 
 Lewis and his staff, with a large number of visiting brethren, 
 were present, and at the close of these interesting ceremonies 
 the brethren of the Lodge escorted the Grand Lodge Officers to 
 the Pierrepont House, where a banquet was served in celebration 
 of this important event. 
 
 Only four brethren have been elected Honorary Members of 
 the Lodge since its organization. The first to receive this honor 
 was Wor. Bro. George B. NichoU, of Excelsior Lodge, No. 195, 
 on the evening of October 13, 1857. Allusion has already been 
 made to the valuable assistance and encouragement rendered 
 by this brother. The next to receive this honor was E.'. W.'. 
 E. W. Eichardson, who was elected October 13, 1885, and on 
 the evening of February 12, 1894, the name of E.'. W.". 
 Thomas Marchant, of Minerva Lodge, ISTo. 793, was added to the 
 list of Commonwealth's Honorary Members. 
 
HISTORY OF COMMONWEALTH 10D6E. » 
 
 Bro. Marchant is present at every meeting of the Lodge, 
 and has for many years been a true and loyal friend of Com- 
 monwealth. 
 
 In 1899 M.-. W.-. Wright D. Pownall, Past Grand Master, 
 was also made an Honorary Member. 
 
 On November 10, 1857, Commonwealth voted to join the 
 Brooklyn Masonic Board of Eelief, and appointed as delegates 
 Bros. Fuller, Howard, and Stockbridge. 
 
 The first public ceremonies participated in by Common- 
 wealth were on July 5, 1858, when, in conjunction with Lexing- 
 ton Lodge, No. 310, they assisted in the ceremonies of laying 
 the corner stone of the Brooklyn Arsenal, which were performed 
 by M.'. W.'. John L. Lewis, Jr., Grand Master. 
 
 It has been the custom of Commonwealth on the retire- 
 ment of each Worshipful Master from office to present him with 
 a Past Master's Jewel, or some other token, in recognition of 
 faithful services rendered, the cost of the same being paid from 
 the funds of the Lodge. The first to receive this was Wor. Bro. 
 E. D. McChesney, the first Master of the Lodge, on July 13, 
 1858. The presentation was made by Senior Warden James M. 
 Fuller. 
 
 At the annual election on December 21, 1858, Bro. James 
 M. Fuller, who was known and recognized as the father of Com- 
 monwealth Lodge, was elected its Master for the first time. He 
 was installed by Wor. George B. Mcholl, of Excelsior Lodge, 
 No. 195, assisted by Wor. Bro. Adams, of St. Nicholas Lodge, 
 No. 321. On January 24, 1860, Bro. Jos. Stockbridge, the first 
 Treasurer of the Lodge, was presented with an elegant silver 
 pitcher, in recognition of his faithful services as Treasurer, 
 which Ojffice he continued to hold for several succeeding years. 
 
 On February 7, 1860, Wor. James M. Fuller was presented 
 with a Past Master's Jewel, the ceremony being performed by 
 Wor. Benjamin Price, the second Master of this Lodge. 
 
10 HISTORY OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 
 
 The year 1861 will be remembered as one of the most event- 
 ful in the history of this as well as many other Lodges. When 
 President Lincoln issued his first proclamation calling for 
 75,000 troops to put down the Eebellion, there were thousands 
 of brave patriots ready to sacrifice their lives in defense of the 
 Union; but to those who had families depending on them for 
 support, it became a serious question with them as to whether 
 they should leave their wives and little ones to starve during their 
 absence. Commonwealth was among the first Lodges to solve 
 this question, and at a regular communication held May 7, 1861, 
 adopted the following preamble and resolution: 
 
 Whereas, Several members of this Lodge having left us to 
 join the army in defense of the fiag of our Union, therefore, be it 
 
 Resolved, That, during their absence, the first three ofiicers 
 of the Lodge be empowered to visit the families of such of our 
 brothers who have thrown themselves into the breach to sustain 
 the Constitution and laws of our glorious Union, and render 
 them such assistance as their circumstances may require. 
 
 Again, in 1898, when war with Spain was declared, a similar 
 resolution was offered by E.'. W.'. J. T. Palmer, and unani- 
 mously adopted by the Lodge. 
 
 These duties were faithfully performed, and the hearts of the 
 absent ones were gladdened and encouraged by the assurance 
 that their loved ones at home were being cared for, and their 
 wants attended to. 
 
 The first member of the Lodge whose name was inscribed 
 on the Crimson Roll of Honor was Bro. John J. Byram, a charter 
 member of this Lodge, who was killed at the Battle of Eredericks- 
 burg, December 13, 1862. The fact was announced at a regular 
 communication of the Lodge held on December 30, following, 
 and suitable action taken in connection therewith. 
 
 Others of our brave brethren to offer their services to our 
 beloved country in her time of need were Bro. August J. 
 
HISTORY OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. H 
 
 Warner, who was severely wounded while in the discharge of his 
 duty at the Battle of Gettysburg; Bro. Frederick H. Wight, 
 who, for three years, served with the Ninth Eegiment, N. Y. 
 S. M., taking part in the battles of Balls Bluff, Second Bull Eun, 
 Chantilly, and Antietam, receiving a severe gunshot wound 
 during the last named engagement. Bro. John M. Simonson, 
 of the Twentieth Maine Volunteers, was engaged in more than 
 a dozen important battles from 1862 to 1865; was wounded 
 twice; while Bro. John W. Eason, whose record also shows no 
 lack of fighting on the part of his regiment, the Fourteenth K. 
 Y. S. M., sustained three wounds at the Battle of Chantilly. Bro. 
 Eobert C. Clark, too, was added to the list of sufferers. Bros. 
 Charles A. Pike, Thomas W. Vaughan, John K. Brown, George 
 F. Barker, Archibald G. Cook, Benjamin C. Bampton, William 
 J. MeKelvey, Creighton B. French, and Thomas Bishop also 
 went bravely to the support of the flag, and although many of 
 them saw three years of extremely active service, all returned 
 safely to their homes. 
 
 In view of our recent conflict with Spain, when the North 
 and South fought side by side, these chronicles seem like the 
 record of a dream, a nightmare, which, please God, w;ll not be 
 repeated in the history of our country. 
 
 Of the brethren of Commonwealth who served during the 
 Spanish-American War, only two have been recorded. Bro. E. 
 J. Keating, who was on the " Indiana " at the time of the de- 
 struction of Cervera's fleet, and Bro. Alfred Bernstein, who has 
 seen service both in Cuba and the Philippines, and who is still 
 in the Navy. 
 
 At a communication held April 18, 1865, announcement was 
 made of the assassination of President Lincoln, and resolutions 
 were adopted by the Lodge expressive of the deepest grief and 
 indignation at the sad and cruel event. As an expression of its 
 
12 HISTORY OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 
 
 sorrow, the Lodge agreed to wear the usual badge of mourning 
 for thirty days. 
 
 In the early part of the year 1868, the great success the Lodge 
 had attained warranted the brethren to believe that they were 
 entitled to a " Home " of their own ; accordingly, the Trustees 
 were empowered to lease the upper part of the building at 317 
 Washington Street, which was furnished in such a manner as 
 to leave nothing to be desired in the way of comfort and con- 
 venience. On the evening of April 28, 1868, the rooms were 
 formally dedicated; the ceremonies being public, the wives and 
 friends of the brethren were present in great numbers, and en- 
 joyed the hospitality of the Lodge, the evening being spent in 
 social entertainment, at the close of which a banquet was served 
 in the large hall on the floor below. 
 
 The year 1870 marked a new era in the history of Common- 
 wealth Lodge. This was the beginning of the interest awakened 
 in its members in the great enterprise of the HaU and Asylum 
 Fund, in which the Lodge subsequently bore such a conspicuous 
 part. The first action taken by the Lodge was at a communi- 
 cation held June 7, 1870, at which time the Secretary reported 
 that "he had procured, by order of the Lodge, a silver medal, 
 to be deposited in the corner stone of the Masonic Hall, to be 
 laid June 8, 1870, at the corner of Sixth Avenue and Twenty- 
 third Street, Few York. The medal had on one side the ofiBcers' 
 names for 1870, and on the other the number of members at 
 previous report (567) and the names of the Trustees." 
 
 The Lodge met in a body, and participated in the ceremonies 
 of that important event. 
 
 One of the secrets of the success and continued prosperity 
 of Commonwealth Lodge has been its efforts to improve the 
 social, mental, and moral condition of its members. In addition 
 to its many social entertainments, a series of lectures was in- 
 augurated in 1870 that has been productive of great good. The 
 
HISTOET OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 13 
 
 first of these was delivered on the evening of July 5, 1870, by 
 Eev. Charles H. Hall, D.D., the subject being "Hiram Abifl, 
 the Builder." There was a large gathering and an audience of 
 deeply interested hearers. The subject was treated in a masterly 
 manner, and evoked frequent applause. The lecture was after- 
 ward published in pamphlet form for general distribution. 
 
 A new organ was purchased in September of this year, and 
 on December 6 a grand entertainment was held, several of the 
 Grand Lodge officers being present. M.". W.*. John H. Anthon, 
 Grand Master, delivered a lecture on the " Duties of Masons ;" 
 it was an interesting and instructive lecture, and was listened 
 to with great attention. E.'. W.'. Bro. Morgan presided at the 
 organ, and added much to the pleasure and entertainment of the 
 occasion. 
 
 On May 16, 1871, W. Bro. Joseph J. Couch, afterward 
 Grand Master, gave a very interesting lecture on the subject, 
 " What is Masonry ? " It was treated in a very able manner, 
 evincing deep research and a thorough knowledge of the subject. 
 He had an appreciative and attentive audience. 
 
 Lectures were also delivered by Wor. Bro. H. L. Bartlett, 
 Kings County Lodge, Ko. 511 ; Wor. Hy. C. Cooper, of Benevo- 
 lent Lodge, No. 88; Bro. Stephenson, of Lodge No. 51, Phila- 
 delphia ; Bro. Eobert Anderson, of Altair Lodge, No. 601 ; Bros. 
 S. S. Conant and A. G. Constable, of Commonwealth Lodge; 
 M.'. W.'. J. Edward Simmons, E.". W.'. James E. Morrison 
 and Eev. Dr. Wild. 
 
 On March 3, 1885, M.'. W.'. Eobert Morris, Past Grand 
 Master of Masons in Kentucky, and Poet Laureate of the Grand 
 Lodge of New York, delivered a very interesting lecture before 
 the Lodge, entitled " Poetry of Freemasonry." This Worthy 
 Brother has since passed from this earth, and ascended to the 
 Celestial Lodge above, where he was doubtless greeted by the 
 .Muses whose aid he had so often invoked. Several years pre- 
 
14: HISTORY OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 
 
 vious to this occasion, M.'. W.'. Bro. Morris visited Common- 
 wealth Lodge, at which time he wrote the following epigram to 
 E.-. W.-. Bro. Fuller: 
 
 To Beotheb James M. Pdixeb. 
 
 In Brooklyn town, it hath been said, 
 
 There's many a moral teacher. 
 And men will crowd on Sabbath day 
 
 To hear their Parson Beecher; 
 But as to that, though I confess 
 
 I've heard full many a duller. 
 Although the church be crowded full. 
 
 The Lodge is always Fuller. 
 
 Your schools are famous for their rules, 
 
 And for their schoolmarms' beauty 
 And I don't doubt that girls and boys 
 
 Learn fast and do their duty; 
 But though much learning, sense and wit 
 
 They drive in with a ruler. 
 And fill their pupils brimming full. 
 
 Freemasonry is Fuller! 
 
 Your folks can mix as good a drink 
 
 As ever man imbibed; 
 They have a knack — I don't know how — 
 
 It can not be described. 
 I've been there, and my thirst was quenched 
 
 Upon a half a dollar. 
 But though I seemed to be so full, 
 
 There always was a Fuller. 
 
 But lest you think this all a jest, 
 
 I'll make my song more solemn. 
 And draw my figures, fresh and clear, 
 
 From out the sacred volume; 
 Let's hope that when his life is past 
 
 He'll prove so good a ruler. 
 That though the courts of Heaven are full, 
 
 They'll find a room for Fuller. . 
 
HISTORY OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 15 
 
 Commonwealth Lodge has not only taken care of its own needy 
 and suffering brethren and their families as well as members of 
 the fraternity beyond its jurisdiction, but has never turned a 
 deaf ear to the appeals of suffering humanity from whatever 
 source they came. On October 10, 1871, a committee of fifteen 
 was appointed to raise funds for the relief of the sufferers of the 
 gTeat Chicago fire. 
 
 The sum of $800 was raised by this committee, which was 
 forwarded to the Mayor of Chicago by the Master of the Lodge. 
 During the terrible yellow fever scourge at Memphis and other 
 parts of the South ; again in 1881, when thousands of homes in 
 Michigan were rendered desolate by fire ; also in 1888, when the 
 yellow fever caused such suffering at Jacksonville, Fla., and 
 on all similar occasions the Lodge has made liberal donations. 
 
 On June 24, 1871, the Lodge visited Albany, and participated 
 in the ceremonies of the laying of the corner-stone of the Capitol. 
 
 On the evening of December 17, 1873, a presentation of . a 
 gold watch was made to Bro. Jonathan Jones, who had faithfully 
 served the Lodge for seven years as Secretary, and who later 
 in the evening was unanimously reelected for the eighth time. 
 
 The presentation was made by Bro. Henry S. Knapp, in an 
 address which has been considered by all who heard it as one of 
 the best efforts in that line ever pronounced in the Lodge. It 
 was an annual communication, and to show the interest then 
 taken in the affairs of the Lodge it is only necessary to state that 
 it is on record that 294 votes were cast for Master. This was 
 the first election of Bro. Henry S. Knapp to that office. 
 
 Bro. Jones lived but a short time after the event above 
 recorded, and on March 25, 1873, the Lodge was called upon io 
 mourn his loss. His death was announced to the Lodge on that 
 evening, and Eev. Charles H. Hall, D.D., rector of Holy Trinity 
 Church, Brooklyn, delivered a touching eulogy on the virtues of 
 
16 HISTORY OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 
 
 the deceased brother, which was feelingly supplemented in an 
 address by Bro. S. S. Conant, as follows: 
 
 " In one of the most beautiful of the parables through which 
 the Divine Master imparted to the world the sublime lessons of 
 Christianity, we read of the humble-minded guest, who took the 
 lowest place at the feast ; to whom the Master said, ' Friend, go 
 up higher.' 
 
 " To whom might these words been more fittingly applied 
 than to our late brother, in whose life were illustrated all those 
 moral qualities which render Masonry desirable among men, 
 and who was always found ready to serve, to labor, and to wait ? 
 Obedient to every call of duty, honorable in all dealings, upright 
 and regular in deportment, true in friendship, and in all social 
 and domestic relations without blame, he was one who could view 
 without dread the approach of the King of Terrors, and in the 
 summons to another world hear the approving voice of the great 
 Master saying, ' Friend, come up higher.' 
 
 " There is no need to dwell on the life and character of our 
 departed brother. 
 
 " For more than seven years an officer of this Lodge, he lived 
 in the presence of all Hs brethren, and was known and read of 
 all. His fidelity, fervency, and zeal in all good works of Masonry, 
 ask for no labored statement or encomium ; they are a part of the 
 history of Commonwealth Lodge ; and while the memory of them 
 intensifies our sense of the loss we have sustained, we can stiU 
 rejoice in the contemplation of the good man gone to his reward, 
 to whom the Master has said, ' Well done, good and faithful 
 servant.' 
 
 " To us and to his bereaved and stricken family, to whom we 
 tender our heartfelt sympathy, there is indeed consolation in the 
 thought that our sorrow and theirs is not for him, but for our- 
 selves. 
 
 " We mourn the loss of the true friend and faithful brother, 
 they, of the affectionate husband and father; while from the 
 
HISTORY OI' COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 17 
 
 heights to which his spirit has ascended, we seem to hear an echo 
 of the summons which he has answered, to ns- at once a warning 
 and a call, ' Friend, come up higher/ " 
 
 On April 23, 1873, a Lodge of Sorrow was held in memory 
 of the brethren deceased previous to this date. 
 
 The Lodge room was so completely draped in the emblems 
 of mourning that a person would think that he was in the realms 
 of the dead. In the center of the room was placed a catafalque 
 surrounded with floral decorations. Upon the pall were in- 
 scribed the following names: Leonard J. Ham, Daniel Paul, E. 
 W. Pearsall, William H. Van Pelt, M. P. Gaddis, Edwin A. 
 Ellis, F. B. S. Snell, Samuel Brown, Bmons A. Gould, Allen 
 T. Bellar, Peter C. Garrison, Morris James, James Van Namee, 
 Joseph Pentland, Jonathan Jones, J. Newton Howe. 
 
 The officers that assisted were: R.'. W.*. Bro. Henry S. 
 Knapp, Master; Bro. John W. Eeid, S. W., and S. S. Conant, 
 J. W. As the Wardens advanced and recited their parts, flowers 
 were deposited upon the catafalque. The Master laid upon it 
 a cross of laurel. After each of these recitals, one of the other 
 officers advanced and extinguished a light. Bros. D. 0. Ferris, 
 then Chaplain, delivered the eulogy, and Charles E. Dudley 
 presided at the organ, and conducted the musical part of the 
 service. The choir was that of the Holy Trinity. Bros. George 
 G. Martin was S. D., and Edwin Selvage S. M. of Ceremonies. 
 Bro. William Jennings, Jr., was stationed in an outer room and 
 tolled the "Low Twelve" bell as the Master gave an electric 
 signal. A code of signals had been so arranged that each officer 
 knew by a certain number that he was to render his part. This 
 peculiar occasion has been chronicled as one of the most per- 
 fectly conducted sorrow services that has ever occurred within 
 the pale of Masonry. 
 
 Since that time the Lodge has been called upon to mourn 
 the loss of many of its well beloved members. 
 
18 HISTORY OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 
 
 At the stated communication held January 37, 1891, the 
 brethren were shocked to learn of the death of E.'. W.'. James 
 M. Fuller, who died very suddenly on the previous Sunday after- 
 noon. The funeral services were held at his late residence on 
 Thursday evening, and on Friday afternoon the Masonic services 
 were held at Greenwood Cemetery. 
 
 For thirty-five years Bro. Fuller had been one of the most 
 zealous and indefatigable workers in the quarries of Masonry, 
 and his loss was deeply deplored not only by the brethren of Com- 
 monwealth Lodge, but by all who knew him. 
 
 To honor his memory it was resolved that special memorial 
 services be held, and the committee appointed to arrange for the 
 same reported on the evening of March 34, 1891, that they had 
 selected the evening of April 16, 1891, as an appropriate time to 
 hold said services, and that they had applied to Bedford Lodge, 
 Ko. 574, F. and A. M., for the use of their room in the Aurora 
 Grata Cathedral for that evening, and that they had received in 
 reply from Bedford Lodge the following letter: 
 
 " Theodoeb a. Tayloe, Esq. : 
 
 " Dear Sir and Bro. : In accordance with a resolution 
 adopted by Bedford Lodge, ISTo. 574, F. and A. M., at the regular 
 communication on Thursday evening, 19th inst., we beg to tender 
 Commonwealth Lodge, ISTo. 409, F. and A. M., the use of our 
 rooms in Aurora Grata Cathedral for Thursday evening, April 
 16, 1891, for the purpose of holding memorial services to the 
 memory of the late E.". W.'. James M. Fuller, and we would 
 further say that Bedford Lodge is glad to be in position to aid 
 in honoring the memory of that good and faithful brother in 
 Masonry, whose devotion to the Craft should be held up as a 
 shining example to many Masons of the present day. 
 " Fraternally yours, 
 
 "W. H. DoNNELL, Secretary." 
 
HISTOEY OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 19 
 
 This letter was received and ordered spread in full upon the 
 minutes, and the committee were instructed to answer the letter, 
 thanking Bedford Lodge for its generous action, and kind ex- 
 pressions of sympathy and regard for our late Bro. Fuller. 
 
 The exercises consisted of appropriate music by the Dudley 
 Buck Quartette, prayer by the Kev. Dr. Bradley, and a most 
 eloquent and feeling eulogy by the Eev. Warren C. Hubbard, 
 Past Grand Chaplain of the Grand Lodge of the State of New 
 York. 
 
 M.'. W.'. William Sherer, Past Grand Master, presided. 
 
 As a further mark of respect, the following resolution was 
 unanimously adopted: 
 
 That at each communication of the Lodge, the Secretary 
 shall call the roll of officers, to be answered by the Senior Deacon, 
 and also the name of E.". W.'. James M. Fuller, to be answered 
 by the Master, " At rest from his labors." 
 
 A memorial album was prepared by a committee appointed 
 by the Lodge and presented to his widow, in response to which 
 the following letter was received from Mrs. Fuller: 
 
 " Messes. Joseph Stookbeidge, Theodoee A. Tatloe, G. 
 
 Feank B. Peaesall, John W. Evans, Eiohaed Wat- 
 
 coTT, AND B. J. Campbell : 
 " Gentlemen : Permit me to express to you and through 
 you to the brethren of Commonwealth Lodge, No. 409, F. and A. 
 M., the deep sense of thankfulness and gratification which your 
 loving remembrance of my dear husband has called forth. 
 
 " I beg you to accept my heartfelt thanks for the beautiful 
 ' In Memoriam,' which shall henceforth be treasured as a fitting 
 testimonial of your regard and esteem for him who served you 
 so long and faithfully, and of your tender sympathy and con- 
 dolence for myself and family who, with you, appreciate and 
 revere the character of him who is ' At rest from his labors.' 
 
30 HISTORY OF COMMONWEALTH LOGDGB. 
 
 " No word of mine can add a single leaflet to the laurel 
 wreath with which you have crowned Vn'm in your heart of 
 hearts. No loving word of praise from me can amplify the 
 tribute to his worth to which you gave publicity in the eloquent 
 eulogy which voiced your estimate of the founder of Common- 
 wealth Lodge as a Mason, as a brother, and as a man. But it 
 may be deemed fitting if I supplement your words of appro- 
 bation with a simple testimony to his worth in our home life. 
 
 " The simplicity of a child was yoked with the tender thought- 
 fulness of a man; unostentatious as was his bearing among his 
 fellows in the world, so was his demeanor within the circle of 
 his loved ones at home. 
 
 " Thoughtful of their welfare as a first consideration, he went 
 out and in, fulfilling the duties which God had laid upon bim 
 during aU the long years he was spared to us, VTith a faithfulness 
 which never flagged, a tenderness which never ceased. 
 
 " When in late life the cares of business and the undeserved 
 disasters of commercial life were crowded thick upon him, no 
 word of fretful repining, no complaint of fickle Fortune's frown, 
 escaped his lips. 
 
 " The same smile was ever for his loved ones ; the same quiet, 
 unremitting and devoted tenderness was master still. Devotion 
 to duty was the keystone of the arch which sums his character. 
 No sacrifice was considered too great, if the welfare of those he 
 loved demanded it. 
 
 " Assured of the justice and necessity of any measure, he 
 gave his best efforts to its accomplishment. 
 
 " I can not but feel with you that when the Eecording Angel 
 closed the record of his life's history, the refrain rang out upon 
 the air of heaven, ' He has fought a good fight, henceforth there 
 is laid up for him a crown of life which the Lord, the righteous 
 Judge, shall give at his appearing.' 
 
 " Memory now goes hand in hand with hope. It shall be, per- 
 
HISTORY OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 21 
 
 haps, but a little while, and then a glad reunion. Till then, I 
 pray you will bear the consciousness that your loving words and 
 actions have lightened the burden of our grief, and I beg you to 
 accept the lasting gratitude of myself and family for your tender 
 sympathy and devotion. 
 
 " With affectionate regard, I remain, 
 
 " Sincerely yours, 
 
 " Julia A. Fullee. 
 " New York, April 20, 1891." 
 
 On December 17, 1891, Bro. George Keock passed away. 
 Masonic services were held over his remains at Aurora Grata 
 Cathedral, after which he was laid to rest in Evergreens Ceme- 
 tery. 
 
 Bro. Eeock had been for many years a faithful officer of the 
 Lodge, and at the regular communication, held January 18, 1892, 
 the following preamble and resolutions were unanimously 
 adopted : 
 
 WhereaSj Our Bro. George Eeock, after serving this Lodge 
 as Tiler for nearly a quarter of a century, has passed from the 
 scenes of earth to the new life that lies beyond the vail, be it 
 
 Resolved, That in the life and long service of Bro. Eeock we 
 recognize a faithful officer, and realize that we have lost one who 
 was peculiarly fitted to perform the duties that devolved upon 
 him; always at his post of duty, affable and courteous alike to 
 members and visiting brethren. 
 
 Resolved, That a memorial page be set apart, and that these 
 resolutions be entered in full upon the minutes. 
 
 Resolved, That, as a Lodge, we tender to the widow of our 
 deceased brother our sincere sympathy in her great bereavement. 
 
 On February 8, 1893, Wor.". Eichard Waycott, a Past Master 
 of this Lodge, died, after a lingering illness, and on February 
 10 the Lodge assembled in funeral procession and proceeded to 
 
22 HISTORY OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 
 
 his late residence, where the ceremonies of the Order were con- 
 ducted in due form. His interment was in Greenwood Ceme- 
 tery. 
 
 Earnest and zealous in the discharge of every duty which 
 came to him in the various ofiSces which he so creditably filled 
 in the Lodge ; of a kind and genial nature, Bro. Waycott held a 
 warm place in the hearts of his brethren, and his early death was 
 deeply regretted, and a source of profound sorrow to all who 
 knew him. 
 
 On December 20, 1898, E.'. W.'. Henry S. Knapp died in 
 Mexico. He was buried with due Masonic honors by Estrella 
 de Sonora Lodge, No. 232, Mexico, which courteous and fraternal 
 action was duly acknowledged by Commonwealth Lodge. 
 
 As already stated, Bro. Knapp had been very active in 
 Masonic work before ill-health compelled him to leave this part 
 of the country, and his death was regretted by all, especially by 
 those brethren who knew him personally in the days of his zeal 
 and activity. 
 
 E.'. W.'. Edwin Knowles was Master of this Lodge in 1888. 
 Of a fine and commanding appearance, a trained and polished 
 orator, his rendition of the Eitual of the Order was always a 
 source of pleasure and delight to all those brethren whose good 
 fortune it was to hear him. He died on April 14, 1902. 
 
 E.*. W.'. John T. Palmer became a member of Common- 
 wealth Lodge on December 10, 1872, and from that time until 
 his death, on April 23, 1902, his interest in Masonry never 
 flagged; punctual in his attendance at every meeting of the 
 Lodge, earnest and sincere in all his actions, his death has re- 
 moved a familiar and prominent brother from our midst. 
 Esteemed and honored by his friends in life, he is mourned by 
 them in death. 
 
 His funeral services were held at the Church of the Atone- 
 ment on April 26, and his remains were interred in Greenwood 
 Cemetery with due Masonic honors. 
 
HISTOKT OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 33 
 
 McKINLEY 
 
 On October 1, 1901, a commuiiieatioii was received from the 
 Grard Master announcing the death of Bro. William McKinley, 
 late President of the United States, when on motion that a 
 committee be appointed to draft suitable resolutions, the Master 
 appointed E.". W.'. Theodore A. Taylor, E.'. W.". Frederick 
 H. Wight, and E.'. W.'. J. W. Evans, who later reported the 
 following resolutions, which were received and ordered spread 
 in full upon the minutes : 
 
 Whereas, Commonwealth Lodge, No. 409, P. and A. M., in 
 common with the brethren throughout the length and breadth 
 of our beloved country, has been greatly bereaved by the death 
 of our brother, William McKinley, late President of the United 
 States; be it 
 
 Resolved, That we desire to place on record our sincere 
 appreciation of his many noble traits, his great ability as a states- 
 man, his patriotic and manly qualities as a citizen, his lovable 
 and tender attributes as a husband, a man, and a Mason, faithful 
 to every trust reposed in him, at the same time expressing our 
 abhorrence of the dastardly manner of his " taking off " by the 
 hands of an assassin, an act which has plunged our country into 
 the deepest grief and sorrow ; 
 
 Resolved, That our faith is supreme, that out of this terrible 
 calamity to our nation, there will arise a sentiment of closer 
 friendship, binding us together in stronger bands of fellowship, 
 strengthening our belief that God is our Father, and all men 
 our brothers; 
 
 Resolved, That these resolutions be spread in full upon the 
 
 Theodoee a. Taylor, 
 Feedeeick H. Wight, 
 John W. Evans, 
 
 Commitiee. 
 
24 HISTORY OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 
 
 On October 24, 1874, a petition was received from Wor. Bro. 
 L. W. Beasley, James M. Rowan, and others, to form a new 
 Lodge, to be known as " Covenant." The petition was endorsed 
 by Commonwealth, and the " petitioners were recommended to 
 the Grand Lodge as being v/orthy to receive a Dispensation." 
 Sixty-seven members withdrew to organize Covenant Lodge. As 
 an evidence of the good will existing between these Lodges, it is 
 only necessary to state that the Three Great Lights used by 
 Covenant Lodge at the present time were presented to Covenant 
 by the members of Commonwealth. 
 
 On January 26, 1875, notice was received from M.'. W.'. 
 Ellwood E. Thorne, Grand Master, that the dedication of Masonic 
 Hall, in New York City, would take place on Wednesday, June 3, 
 and requesting a donation for the dedication fund. In response 
 to this request, the Lodge donated the sum of two hundred 
 dollars. On the day appointed the Lodge met as a body, and, 
 after participating in the very interesting ceremonies, wound up 
 the events of the day by going on an excursion up the Hudson. 
 
 On September 7, 1878, the Lodge was convened to take action 
 in regard to the death of Wor. Bro. Eobert D. McChesney, its 
 first Master. His loss was deeply felt, for he had proved him- 
 self an able and efficient officer, a true and worthy brother, be- 
 loved by all who knew him, and a bright and shining light in the 
 Fraternity. 
 
 March 25, 1880, was another gala night in the history of 
 the Lodge. The occasion was the ofificial visit of the Grand 
 Master M.". W.'. Charles Roome to the Third Masonic Dis- 
 trict, under the auspices of our Lodge. He was accompanied 
 by his staff, consisting of : 
 
 R.-. W.-. William T. Woodruff, D. G. M., 
 " " Horace S. Taylor, S. G. W., 
 " " Frank R. Lawrence, J. G. W., 
 
HISa?OET OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 25 
 
 E.'. W.\ Charles S. Arthur, G. Treasurer, 
 
 " " James M. Austin, G. Secretary, 
 
 " " Eev. Charles H. Hall, G. Chaplain, 
 
 " " J. Edward Simmons, G. Marshal, 
 
 " " William H. White, G. Sword Bearer, 
 
 " " F. H. Wight, S. G. Deacon, 
 
 " T. Pratt, J. G. Deacon. 
 
 The Grand Master and staff were received by E.'. W.'. Eobert 
 Black, D. D. G. M., and, after a very pleasant evening of speech- 
 making and social converse enjoyed by the large gathering of 
 brethren, repaired to the hotel adjoining the Lodge room, and 
 were entertained at a banquet provided by the members of Com- 
 monwealth Lodge. 
 
 This event took place during the administration of Wor. 
 John T. Palmer, who presided at the banquet. After the good 
 things had been disposed of, E.'. W.'. Frederick H. Wight, who, 
 at the invitation of Wor. Master, was acting as toastmaster, ad- 
 dressed the Grand Master, and in a very graceful speech ex- 
 pressed the gratification felt by the members of Commonwealth 
 Lodge at the presence of the Grand Master, and concluded his 
 remarks by proposing his health, which was feelingly responded 
 to by the Grand Master. Other distinguished brethren present 
 also addressed the assemblage. 
 
 In March, 1881, a fair, known as the Organ Builder's Fair, 
 was held in Trinity Chapel, Brooklyn. A spirited contest took 
 place at this fair over a Jewel set with a piece of the Egjrptian 
 Obelisk (set up in Central Park the previous year), which was 
 to be awarded to the most popular Lodge in Brooklyn by vote 
 of those present. Commonwealth having won the prize, it was 
 presented to the Lodge on the evening of March 22, 1881, by 
 Eev. Charles H. Hall, D.D., with appropriate remarks, and re- 
 ceived on behalf of the Lodge by the Chaplain, Eev. William 
 Short. 
 
26 HISTOKY OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 
 
 On June 14, 1881, the Lodge celebrated its twenty-fifth anni- 
 versary by a banquet at the Hotel Brighton, Coney Island, to 
 which about one hundred and fifty members of the Lodge and 
 their friends sat down. There were present a number of dis- 
 tinguished invited guests, among whom were: M.". W.*. Horace 
 S. Taylor, Grand Master; M.\ W.'. Joseph J. Couch, Past 
 Grand Master; M.'. W.'. Joseph D. Evans, Past Grand Master; 
 E.". W.'. James M. Austin, Grand Secretary; Eev. Charles H. 
 Hall, Eector of Holy Trinity Church, and an Honorary Member 
 of Aurora Grata Lodge, and Eev. William Short, Chaplain of 
 Commonwealth Lodge; Wor. Bro. L. W. Beasley, E.*. W.". J. 
 M. Eiley, Alonzo Slote, Wor. James S. Leeds, and Wor. Thomas 
 Marehant, all prominent members of the Fraternity, are men- 
 tioned among those present. 
 
 On this occasion, two of the only three surviving charter 
 members of the Lodge, viz. : " Father " J. M. Fuller and Bro. 
 Joseph Stockbridge, who were present, were specially honored. 
 Bro. Fuller was introduced by Wor. Master John T. Palmer, 
 who presided on the occasion; Bro. Fuller gave a brief history 
 of the Lodge during its twenty-five years' existence, and closed 
 his remarks by proposing the health of "M.'. W.'. Joseph D. 
 Evans, who, as Grand Master, granted the Lodge its Dispensation 
 twenty-five years ago." 
 
 M.\ W.'. Horace S. Taylor, Grand Master, responded to the 
 toast, " The Grand Lodge of the State of New York, the legiti- 
 mate source of Masonic authority and power throughout the 
 State." He congratulated the Lodge upon its strength 'and pros- 
 perity, and spoke of its noble origin, beginning in an act of 
 charity. 
 
 M.'. W.'. Joseph J. Couch, Past Grand Master, spoke of the 
 great social and moral work of the Order, and of the significance 
 of the name of the Lodge — Commonwealth — ^which, as a native 
 of the old Bay State (Massachusetts), was very expressive to 
 
HISTORY OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 27 
 
 him, and indicative of the common spirit of Fraternity that 
 pervaded the Order. 
 
 Bro. Lneien Knapp, of Conmiomvealth Lodge, responded 
 in glowing^terms to " The City of Brooklyn/' the home of Com- 
 monwealth, of its advantages as a place of residence, a city of 
 homes, with its churches, Sunday schools, places of education, 
 etc., and finally of its Masonic strength. 
 
 " The Masonic Fraternity, which recognizes the Fatherhood 
 of God and the Brotherhood of Man, and whose grandest teach- 
 ing is universal benevolence," brought out a vigorous, telling 
 speech from Dr. Charles H. Hall, who spoke entirely in keeping 
 with the sentiments of the toast. He said that the Masonic 
 Fraternity recognized that man without God was like chaff be- 
 fore the wind, and in that sense it was a profoundly religious 
 organization. There was intrusted to the 70,000 Masons of Kew 
 York State a platform for all people to stand on. He concluded 
 by urging the Masons to practice stiU more faithfully reverence 
 for God and love for Man. 
 
 The last toast of the evening was " The Ladies, God bless 
 them," which was wittily and eloquently responded to by Wor. 
 James S. Leeds, of Altair Lodge, No. 601. 
 
 Too much credit can not be given to Wor. John T. Palmer, 
 the Master, whose indefatigable efforts did much to make this 
 a successful and enjoyable occasion, worthy to be remembered 
 as one of the most memorable events in the history of the Lodge. 
 The Master was ably assisted by the following committee : James 
 M. Fuller, F. H. Wight, T. B. Linington, T. A. Taylor, Edwin 
 Selvage, J. W. Evans, I. M. Bon, 0. K. Buckley, Jr., J. E. Tyler, 
 J. W. Cooper, Lucien Knapp, John Barbarie, J. A. Templeton, 
 and J. B. Goldey. 
 
 On the evening of March 30, 1897, the following resolution 
 was offered by E.'. W.'. Theodore A. Taylor, and unanimously 
 adopted : 
 
28 HISTORY OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 
 
 Resolved, That a committee of fifteen be appointed to arrange 
 for the proper celebration of the fortieth anniversary of Com- 
 monwealth Lodge, and that the first three named shall be an 
 executive committee, to carry out the details. 
 
 In accordance with this resolution, the Master appointed the 
 following named brethren to constitute said committee : Theodore 
 A. Taylor, J. W. Evans, A.bel Crook, E. J. Campbell, J. A. 
 Bennet, William J. McKelvey, J. T. Palmer, J. Stockbridge, J. 
 W. Cooper, 0. K. Buckley, Jr., Edwin Knowles, L. H. Quacken- 
 boss, P. H. Wight, G. P. E. Pearsall, and W. S. Beekley. 
 
 The committee, after mature deliberation, decided that the 
 celebration should be in the form of an outing and banquet, 
 to be held at the Long Beach Hotel, Long Island, on the after- 
 noon and evening of June 2G, 1897. 
 
 The weather was all that could be desired — ^it was truly 
 " a balmy day in June." In the evening the banquet was served, 
 and was a very satisfactory affair; every one was in the best of 
 spirits, and during the participation was entertained by vocal 
 selections by the Aurora Grata Quartette. 
 
 The invited guests were: E.'. W.'. Wright D. Pownall, D. 
 G. M.; R.-. W.-. E. M. L. Ehlers, Grand Secretary; R.'. W.". 
 Eufus T. Griggs, Commissioner of Appeals; R.'. W.'. E. J. 
 Kenworthy, D. D. G. M., Third District; E. . W.'. P. P. Morris, 
 President Board of Trustees of the Hall and Asylum Pund; R.". 
 W.*. James McCullough, Grand Steward; W.'. Thomas 
 Marchant, Honorary Member, and the Rev. Otho P. Bartholow. 
 
 The following toasts were proposed and responded to in 
 appropriate addresses: 
 
 " The Grand Lodge of the State of Few York." 
 
 "All your strength is in your union, 
 All your danger is in discord." — " Hiawatha." 
 
 Responded to by R.". W.'. Wright D. Pownall. 
 
HISTORY OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 
 
 " Commonwealth Lodge, No. 409, F. and A. M." 
 
 " This is my birthday, and a happier one was never 
 mine." — Longfellow. 
 
 29 
 
 Eesponded to by E.'. W.". Frederick H. Wight. 
 
 " Yearning for Light." 
 
 "Light seeking light doth light of light beguile, 
 So ere you find where light in darkness lies 
 Your light grows dark by losing of your eyes." 
 
 — Love's Labor Lost. 
 
 Eesponded to by Bro. John L. Hill. 
 
 "The Masonic Fraternity: Its Past, Present, and Future." 
 
 " We came into this world like brother 
 
 And brother, and now let's go hand in 
 Hand, not one before the other." 
 
 • — Comedy of Errors. 
 
 Eesponded to by Bro. Lucien Knapp. 
 
 Woman." 
 
 " O woman ! lovely woman ! nature made thee to 
 temper man; we had been brutes without you. Angels 
 are painted fair to look like you." 
 
 Eesponded to by Eev. Otho F. Bartholow. 
 
 Addresses were also made by E.'. W.'. E. M. L. Ehlers, 
 Grand Secretary, and E.'. W.'. Eufus T. Griggs. 
 
 In the early part of the year 1876, E .'. W.'. Henry S. Knapp, 
 who had Just closed his administration of three years as Master, 
 arid two as District Deputy Grand Master, was compelled by 
 ill-health to leave this section of the country and take up his 
 residence in California. 
 
30 HISTORY OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 
 
 E.". W/. Bro. Knapp was not only one of the most zealous 
 of Masons, but one of the best Eitualists the Third District had 
 ever seen, consequently his enforced absence was regretted by 
 all, and when, on the evening of October 35, 1881, he paid a 
 visit to his old home, he was received with open arms by his 
 brethren of Commonwealth Lodge. 
 
 On his entrance into the Lodge he was welcomed in a most 
 cordial and happy manner by the Master, Wor. John T. Palmer. 
 
 The E.*. W.'. Brother, during his active service in the Lodge, 
 had made a great reputation for himself as a remarkably happy 
 and effective speaker, and, in his response to the Wor. Master's 
 address of welcome, did not fail to impress his hearers that time 
 had not tended to dim his powers in that line. 
 
 After the Lodge closed, a banquet was served in honor of the 
 distinguished guest, and an enjoyable evening spent in speech- 
 making, story-telling, and reminiscences, to the delight of those 
 present. 
 
 The whole affair was well conducted by the Master, Wor. 
 John T. -Palmer. 
 
 Commonwealth Lodge has always been lavish in her ex- 
 penditures of money for testimonials to retiring officers and 
 others in recognition of their distinguished services. On Jan- 
 uary 11, 1876, E.'. W.'. Henry S. Knapp was presented with 
 a set of diamond studs by M.'. W.'. Joseph J. Couch, on be- 
 half of the Lodge. On January 33, 1878, a Past Master's Jewel 
 was presented to Wor. P. H. Wight, the interesting ceremony 
 being performed by Bro. S. S. Conant. 
 
 On January 30, 1880, a Past Master's Jewel was presented 
 to Wor. Bro. T. B. Linington by Wor. J. T. Palmer, on behalf 
 of the Lodge. On June 39,-1880, the Lodge presented to E.'. 
 W.". Frederick H. Wight, who had just been appointed District 
 Deputy Grand Master, a Jewel and apron appropriate to the 
 office. 
 
HISTOKT OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 31 
 
 On January 34, 1883^ Wor. Bro. J. T. Palmer was pre- 
 sented with a Past Master's Jewel, the presentation being made 
 by Past Master P. H. Wight. On December 18, 1883, a life 
 size portrait of Wor. Bro. Theodore A. Taylor, handsomely 
 framed, was presented to him, this being the close of his first 
 term as Master. Past Master J. T. Palmer was selected to make 
 the presentation, and the gift as well as the accompanying cere- 
 monies were an entire surprise to Bro. Taylor. On January 29, 
 1884, another and more valuable testimonial awaited him in 
 the gift of an elegant gold watch and chain by the Lodge, Wor. 
 Bro. G. F. E. Pearsall being designated to make the presenta- 
 tion. Bro. Theodore Linington, who for fourteen years had 
 faithfully performed the duties of Treasurer, was the next one 
 to receive recognition for his services. On December 23, 1884, 
 the Lodge presented him, through Bro. S. S. Conant, with a 
 silver pitcher and tray. On January 19, 1886, Wor. Bro. Taylor, 
 who two years previous had received at the hands of Bro. Pearsall 
 a gold watch and chain, returned the compliment by presenting 
 that Brother, on behalf of the Lodge, with a beautiful Past 
 Master's Jewel. On the evening of January 15, 1889, Wor. 
 Edwin Knowles was presented with a gold watch and chain by 
 E.-. W.-. G. Prank E. Pearsall, on behalf of the Lodge. On 
 February 17, 1891, Wor. John A. Bennet was presented with 
 a watch and chain by E.*. W.*. John W. Evans, on behalf of the 
 Lodge. 
 
 Wor. Eichard Waycott being taken ill during his term of 
 ofEce, and subsequently dying, the Lodge presented his widow 
 with a suitable testimonial in recognition of his worth and 
 services. On February 21, 1893, E.'. W.'. James Huggins pre- 
 sented to Wor. TJ. T. Fackenthall a silver tea service, in behalf of 
 the Lodge. On February 19, 1895, Past Master, W. T. Bather 
 received a watch and chain. E.'. W.'. E. M. L. Ehlers, Grand 
 Secretary, made the presentation speech in his usual happy 
 
32 HISTORY OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 
 
 manner. On Pebruary 2, 1897, Past Master E. J. Campbell, Jr., 
 was presented with a silver tea service, R.". W.'. Theodore A. 
 Taylor speaking for the Lodge. On January 31, 1899, Wor. Wm. 
 Bamber was presented with a diamond ring by E.'. W.'. Fred- 
 erick H. Wight, in behalf of the Lodge. On February 6, 1900, 
 Wor. L. H. Quaekenboss received a watch and chain, Bro. Abel 
 Crook being the spokesman on this occasion, and on the evening 
 of January 37, 1903, a similar testimonial was presented to 
 Wor. A. L. Madison. 
 
 Testimonials had also been presented to Wor. Bros. Nathaniel 
 Gladding, James M. Rowan, and Lester W. Beasley, on their 
 retirement from office. 
 
 On November 35, 1884, Most Worshipful Grand Master Wil- 
 liam A. Brodie and staff visited the second and third Masonic 
 Districts under the guidance of R.'. W.'. C. W. Carpenter and 
 R.". W.'. Sydney F. Walker. They met in Commonwealth Lodge 
 room, and there were present on the occasion a large number of 
 distinguished brethren, among whom were R.'. W.'. Frank R. 
 Lawrence, D. G. M. ; R.'. W.'. John W. Vrooman, Senior Grand 
 Warden; R.'. W.'. Edward M. L. Ehlers, Grand Secretary; R.". 
 W.'. George H. Raymond, Grand Lecturer; Right Wor. Brothers 
 Schlick, Wight, Griggs, and others. Addresses were made by 
 M.-. W.'. Grand Master William A. Brodie, M.'. W.*. Joseph 
 J. Couch, M.". W.'. Robert Morris, Past Grand Master of Masons 
 in Kentucky; Right Wor. Bros. Frank R. Lawrence, Vrooman 
 and Bhiers. 
 
 In 1885 was the beginning of a series of events that was to 
 place Commonwealth Lodge foremost among her sister Lodges 
 of the State in the great work of lifting the burden of debt from 
 the Fraternity in connection with tLs Hall and Asylum Fund. 
 The debt at this time was nearly half a million dollars. Novem- 
 ber 24, 1885, the Lodge was summoned to take action on the ap- 
 peal of M.'. W.'. Frank R. Lawrence, Grand Master, for assist- 
 ance in paying the debt of the Hall and Asylum Fund. Common- 
 
HISTORY OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 33 
 
 wealth Lodge had never been behind her sister Lodges in 
 responding to appeals from the Grand Lodge; she fully realized 
 the magnitude of this gigantic undertaking, and was not only 
 the first Lodge in the State to assume her share of the burden, 
 but her per capita tax^ voluntarily assumed, was larger than 
 that of any Lodge on Long Island. By a resolution unanimously 
 adopted on this occasion, the Lodge pledged itself to pay $2,500 
 — which was nearly $500 in excess of the amount apportioned 
 as her share of the debt, and at the same time appointed a com- 
 mittee to solicit subscriptions. This committee consisted of the 
 following brethren, viz. : S. Brooks, J. A. Bennet, J. W. Cooper, 
 A. Corson, Felix Evans, James M. Fuller, A. Gilchrist, J. W. 
 Evans, E. F. Gordon, T. A. Preston, J. T. Pahner, G. F. E. 
 Pearsall, J. W. Palmer, S. Eobinson, J. Stockbridge, E. Selvage, 
 J. A. Templeton, G. W. Van Buskirk, F. H. Wight, E. Waycott, 
 and Theodore A. Taylor. The committee made a thorough can- 
 vass among the members of the Lodge, and raised, by voluntary 
 subscriptions, the sum of two thousand dollars, five hundred of 
 which amount was paid by Wor. Bro. John A. P. Fisk, five 
 hundred dollars additional was voted by the Lodge, making the 
 sum total $2,500, which was paid over to the Grand Master 
 March 30, 1886. 
 
 On April 13, 1886, M.'. W.'. Grand Master Frank E. Law- 
 rence, with his staff, visited the Lodge, and was cordially wel- 
 comed in a few well chosen remarks by W.\ John W. Evans; 
 Grand Master Lawrence responded in an eloquent manner, thank- 
 ing Commonwealth Lodge for its prompt response to his appeal 
 in behalf of the Hall and Asylum Fund, and for its noble and 
 earnest efforts in aid of this great undertaking. 
 
 One of the most earnest, indefatigable and successful workers 
 in this enterprise was Wor. Bro. Theodore A. Taylor. As a re- 
 ward for his efforts, his friends obtained for him the appoint- 
 ment of District Deputy Grand Master of the Third Masonic 
 
34: HISTORY OF COMMONWEALTH ' LODGE. 
 
 District, and on June 29, 1886, E.*. W.'. James M. Fuller 
 surprised Bro. Taylor by presenting him with the warrant con- 
 taining his appointment, signed by M.'. W.'. Grand Master 
 Frank R. Lawrence. 
 
 The Lodge being called ofE for the summer, nothing was done 
 by him in his official capacity until the following autumn. In 
 the mean time, a committee was appointed by the Lodge to pro- 
 vide the Brother with suitable regalia for his position as D. 
 D. G. M. On the evening of September 21, 1886, the com- 
 mittee made their report, and delivered the regalia to Worshipful 
 John W. Evans, whose pleasant duty it was to present the same 
 to R.'. W.'. Bro. Taylor. This was done in a fitting and an 
 appropriate manner, the speaker referring in glowing terms to the 
 labors and successful efforts of Bro. Taylor in the past, and bid- 
 ding Godspeed in the new field of labor which he was about 
 entering. Bro. Taylor gratefully accepted the gift as a renewed 
 evidence of the confidence and esteem of his brethren, and of 
 the hearty support they had given him in every undertaking. 
 
 A large number of distinguished visitors had come together 
 on this occasion to congratulate Bro. Taylor on his appointment, 
 and to offer him their aid and encouragement. It is estimated 
 that there were over three hundred present. Bergstein's Quar- 
 tette discoursed sweet music, and addresses were made by M.*. 
 W.". Joseph J. Couch, E.". W.*. B. M. L. Ehlers, Grand Secre- 
 tary; Eight "Wor. Frederick A. Burnham, Chief Comjnissioner 
 of Appeals, and others. ISTo Brother ever entered upon any 
 undertaking under more favorable and promising auspices. The 
 one' great purpose which he had in view was to assist the Grand 
 Master in his effort to reduce the great burden of debt con- 
 nected with the Hall and Asylum Fund. He entered at once 
 upon the work, and in his official visitations to the various Lodges 
 of the District was always accompanied by a large delegation, 
 consisting of the officers, past officers, and brethren of his Lodge ; 
 
HISTOKY OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 35 
 
 on many occasions there were as many as sixty members of Com- 
 monwealth present, never less than fifteen. 
 
 The hearty and earnest support rendered him by these breth- 
 ren in the great work which he had undertaken was not only a 
 source of encouragement to Bro. Taylor, but aided him very 
 materially in bringing the work to the successful issue finally 
 attained, which fact was gratefully acknowledged and duly ap- 
 preciated by the E.*. W.'. Brother. This record would not be 
 complete without giving special credit to Bro. Joseph Stock- 
 bridge, a charter member of the Lodge, who missed but one of 
 these visits throughout the year. 
 
 But few of the Lodges in the Third District had paid any 
 part of their quota on the Hall and Asylum Fund debt, and a 
 number had paid nothing. Bro. Taylor and his delegation met 
 with a cordial reception at every Lodge they visited; and at each 
 visit he urged upon his brethren to make one grand, earnest effort 
 to pay their quota at once, and thus relieve themselves of all 
 future obligations in the matter. 
 
 The brethren caught his zeal and enthusiasm, and went to 
 work in earnest. Individual subscriptions flowed in, and at 
 the close of his administration as District Deputy, every Lodge 
 in the District had paid its full quota, and was released from 
 the fifty cent tax; this being the f,rst District in the State to 
 pay its full quota of the debt. It thus became the Banner Dis- 
 trict, and Commonwealth in turn became the Banner Lodge. 
 The full amount paid by the thirty Lodges of the District was 
 $25,000. 
 
 The last official visit made by the Eight Wor. Brother was 
 to his own Lodge, on May 10, 1887. A royal reception awaited 
 him. Wor. Bro. J. W. Evans received the distinguished visitor 
 with the honors due the occasion. It was like the return of a 
 successful warrior from the field of battle, crowned with victory 
 and honor. Bro. Taylor could say without egotism, " Veni, Yidi, 
 
36 HISTORY OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 
 
 Vici." The Grand Master and Ms stafE were present, and Common- 
 wealth Lodge room was filled to overflowing; upward of five 
 hundred were present, including the invited guests. The room 
 was tastefully arranged, the altar being placed just in front of 
 the East, with the columns on either side, over which was an 
 arch of roses ezt'ending from the top of one column to the other, 
 while the columns were beautifully festooned with smilax, etc. 
 Addresses were made by the distinguished guests, and to Common- 
 wealth Lodge were accorded the honors she had so fairly earned. 
 Eight Wor. Bro. Taylor, the hero of the hour, bore his honors 
 with his usual becoming modesty, and at the close of the services 
 sat down with the numerous invited guests and brethren of his 
 own Lodge to a bountiful supper, where greetings were ex- 
 changed, and all made merry. 
 
 The last and final efforts made by Cormnonwealth Lodge in 
 aid of the Hall and Asylum Fund, were in connection with the 
 Ladies' Masonic Fair, held in November and December, 1887. 
 
 A number of ladies, the wives and relatives of the brethren 
 of Commonwealth Lodge, organized themselves into the " Com- 
 monwealth Ladies' Fair Association," for the purpose of co- 
 operating with the " Ladies' Masonic Fair Association," of New 
 York. The following were the officers of this Association, viz. : 
 President, Mrs. John W. Evans; Vice-President, Mrs. Edwin 
 Knowles; Treasurer, Mrs. Theodore A. Taylor; Secretary, Mrs. 
 Edwin Selvage. 
 
 On November 22, a committee was appointed by the Lodge to 
 assist the Ladies' Association; this consisted of Brothers Frank 
 Purcupile, Eight Wor. Theodore A. Taylor, Eight "Wor. G. F. 
 E. Pearsall, Wor. J. T. Palmer, Bro. Edwin Knowles, Edwin 
 Selvage, G. L. Gillon, Samuel Smith, J. W. Palmer, E. Wayeott, 
 S. Eobinson, B. Skinner, E. A. Deveau, J. Macbeth, J. Stock- 
 bridge, Eight Wor. J. M. Fuller, John A. Bennet, William S. 
 Beckley, and Wor. J. W. Evans. 
 
HISTORY OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 
 
 37 
 
 Among the many valuable and interesting articles donated 
 to Commonwealth Lodge for the Association, was an elegant and 
 costly quilt, presented by Mrs. Eleanor Burton, Past Grand 
 Matron of the Order of the Eastern Star. This was disposed 
 of for a large sum. 
 
 Several weeks were spent in preparation for this great event, 
 and each vied with the other in their endeavors to make it a 
 success. Most of the ladies and gentlemen from Commonwealth 
 Lodge Ladies' Fair Association and committee were daily in 
 attendance at the Masonic Hall, in ISTew York, during the three 
 weeks following ISTovember 28, and the total sum of $1,472.83 
 was realized from Commonwealth table, which was paid to the 
 Grand Master. 
 
 A number of valuable and interesting articles were purchased 
 by members, or voted to Commonwealth Lodge. These were in 
 turn presented to members of the Lodge on different occasions. 
 The first of these was an elegant embroidered Past Master's Lamb 
 Skin Apron, presented to Wor. Bro. Evans on the evening of 
 November 29. It was a great surprise to the brother. On the 
 evening of December 20 a presentation of -these several gifts 
 was continued. The first was a beautiful Master's Apron, 
 which was presented by the hand of Past Master Evans to the 
 newly elected Worshipful Master, Brother Edvrin Knowles. A 
 Past Master's Jewel, which was voted at the Pair to the most 
 popular Past Master in the Third Masonic District, was pre- 
 sented to Past Master James M. Fuller by Eight Wor. Bro. 
 Pearsall, with appropriate remarks. Bro. Fuller retaliated by 
 presenting Bro. Pearsall with a beautiful Grand Steward's 
 Apron, purchased at the Fair by the Lodge. 
 
 A life size portrait of E.'. W.'. T. A. Taylor, set in an 
 elaborate frame, was purchased by the " Commonwealth Ladies' 
 Fair Association " at the Fair, and presented by them to Com- 
 monwealth Lodge; Wor. Bro. Evans received the gift on be- 
 
38 HISTORY OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 
 
 half of the Lodge, in a pleasant and graceful manner, expressing 
 his high appreciation of the gift, and the motiye that prompted it. 
 
 In the beginning of 1888, Most Worshipful Frank E. Law- 
 rence, G. M., desired to make an unofficial visit to the Third 
 District, and Commonwealth Lodge was accorded the honor of 
 receiving him. 
 
 The evening of January 24 was set apart for that purpose. 
 The Grand Master was received by the Wor. Master, Edwin 
 Knowles, in an eloquent manner, giving expression to the pleas- 
 ure felt by all at the presence of this well-beloved and dis- 
 tinguished craftsman. 
 
 The Grand Master, in his usual happy and effective manner, 
 acknowledged the cordiality of his reception, and expressed his 
 delight at being once more among his brethren of the Banner 
 District. 
 
 The evening had originally been set apart for the purpose of 
 presenting to Wor. Bro. John W. Evans, who had just retired 
 from the Bast, a Past Master's Jewel. 
 
 The Grand Master made the presentation speech, accord- 
 ing to the Wor. Bro. great praise for the work he had accom- 
 plished. Wor. Bro. Evans accepted the Jewel in a speech ex- 
 pressing his gratitude to the brethren of the Lodge for their 
 kindness and consideration shown to him at all times, and the 
 honor of receiving this testimonial at the hands of M.'. W.'. 
 Frank E. Lawrence. 
 
 Many of the Grand Lodge officers were present, and thirty- 
 one Masters and Past Masters of the Third District. 
 
 On February 13, 1888, a committee of Commonwealth Lodge 
 visited Masonic Hall, and presented to the Grand Lodge Library 
 a life size portrait of Grand Secretary Ehlers, which was pur- 
 chased by this Lodge at the Fair. The pleasant duty of pre- 
 senting the gift was assigned to Wor. Bro. Evans, who performed 
 it in his usual graceful manner. It was received with thanks 
 
HISTORY OP COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 39 
 
 accompanied by kind expressions by E.'. W.*. Herman G. Carter, 
 Grand Librarian. 
 
 Two years elapsed before the entire debt of the Fraternity 
 in the State was extinguished, and in March, 1889, the Grand 
 Master issued an encyclical letter officially announcing that the 
 debt had been paid in full, and designating Wednesday, April 
 24, 1889, as a day to be set aside to commemorate the event. 
 
 On the evening of that day. Commonwealth Lodge, in con- 
 junction with the other Lodges of the Third District, assembled 
 in the First Baptist Church. 
 
 After the invocation by the Eev. A. J. Canfield, D.D., the 
 encyclical letter of the Grand Master was read by E.". W.'. 
 Theodore A. Taylor, P. D. D. G. M. This was followed by 
 vocal and instrumental music, under the direction of Bro. A. 
 S. Caswell. The vocal music was furnished by the St. Ceeile 
 and Euphonic Quartettes. Addresses were then made by the 
 Eev. Warren C. Hubbard, Past Master of Altair Lodge; M.*. 
 W.*. Joseph J. Couch, Past Grand Master; Eev. Charles H. Hall, 
 D.D., Past Grand Chaplain, and others. 
 
 On March 3, 1891, a communication was received from 
 Grand Master Vrooman stating that the corner-stone of the 
 Masonic Home and Asylimi would be laid at Utica in the fol- 
 lowing May. On motion, E.". W.'. Theodore A. Taylor, E.'. 
 W.'. G. P. E. Pearsall, and Bro. 0. K. Buckley, Jr., were ap- 
 pointed a committee by the Master to make arrangements for 
 the proper participation of the Lodge in this important ceremony. 
 At the meeting of March 17, 1891, the committee reported that 
 the corner-stone would be laid on May 31, 1891, and that M.". 
 W.'. Frank E. Lawrence would deliver the oration. The com- 
 mittee also recommended that a special car be chartered for 
 the use of the members of the Lodge. The recommendation 
 was adopted, and the committee authorized to charter a car, and 
 make any additional arrangements that might be deemed neces- 
 
40 HISTORY OP COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 
 
 sary for the pleasure and comfort of the brethren. This plan 
 was carried out by the committee in a very satisfactory man- 
 ner, -and on the evening of May 30, 1891, a large number of en- 
 thusiastic members met and proceeded by special train to TJtica, 
 where they arrived the following morning, and took part in the 
 ceremonies of the day. 
 
 When the building was completed and about to be dedicated, 
 a meeting was called of all the Masters of the Third Masonic 
 District, when a plan was adopted by which all the Lodges of 
 the Third District should join forces in order that a showing 
 could be made worthy of the name and fame of the "Banner 
 District " of the State. In accordance with this determination, 
 the brethren of the various Lodges met on the evening of October 
 4, 1893, and, accompanied by a band of music, proceeded to 
 Albany by the night boat, thence by special train to TJtica. 
 The return from TJtica was by special train of Pullman sleep- 
 ing coaches, which arrived at the Grand Central Depot in Few 
 York at seven o'clock on the morning of October 6. The trip 
 was declared by all to have been a most delightful and enjoyable 
 one in every way. 
 
 At this time an opportunity was afforded the Lodge to select 
 a room in the Home which should bear its name. Eoom No. 31, 
 first floor, was selected and handsomely furnished by the Lodge, 
 when it was christened " Commonwealth Eoom," which name 
 it will always bear. 
 
 Commonwealth Lodge has on several occasions been honored 
 by the Grand Lodge in the selection of certain of her members 
 for important positions in the Grand Lodge. 
 
 The first to be so distinguished was E.'. W.*. James M. 
 Fuller, who was appointed District Deputy Grand Master in 
 1863, and in the following year Grand Steward ; E.'. W.'. James 
 M. Eowan was appointed to the position of District Deputy 
 Grand Master in 1873; he was followed by E.'. W.'. Henry S. 
 
HISTOET OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 41 
 
 Knapp, who held the office of District Deputy Grand Master for 
 the years 1874 and 1875. 
 
 K.'. W.'. Frederick H. Wight was appointed Grand Steward 
 in 1879, and in the two following years held the office of District 
 Deputy Grand Master. At the present time he holds the office 
 of Eepresentative of the Grand Lodge of the State of Wisconsin. 
 E.*. W.'. Theodore A. Taylor was appointed District Deputy 
 Grand Master in 1886, and on the evening of Novemher 13, 
 1888, received his commission as Eepresentative of the Grand 
 Lodge of the State of Louisiana, and in June, 1887, the Lodge 
 was again highly honored by the selection of E.'. W.'. G. Frank 
 E. Pearsall to fill the office of Grand Steward. Bro. Pearsall 
 bad been one of the most zealous supporters of M.'. W.'. Frank 
 E. Lawrence in his efforts to extinguish the debt of the Hall 
 and Asylum Fund, and was Chairman of the Committee of Com- 
 monwealth Lodge that had had the work in hand. He entered 
 upon the discharge of the duties of the office with the same zeal 
 and energy which had characterized his predecessors, who had, 
 without exception, reflected credit upon their Mother Lodge. 
 
 In 1891 E.'. W.'. John W. Evans was appointed Grand 
 Steward by M.'. W.-. William Sherer, Grand Master. In 1897 
 E.'. W.'. Edwin EJaowles was appointed Eepresentative of the 
 Grand Lodge of Ehode Island. In the same year, E.\ W.'. J. 
 W. Pahner was appointed Eepresentative of the Grand Lodge 
 of New Brunswick. In 1903 E.'. W.". Samuel Crook was ap- 
 pointed Senior Grand Deacon of the Grand Lodge of the State 
 of New York, and in 1903 M.*. W.'. Elbert Crandall selected 
 him to serve as his Grand Marshal. In the year 1902 E.". W.'. 
 William Bamber was appointed Eepresentative of the Grand 
 Lodge of Ehode Island. 
 
 The evening of May 24, 1892, having been determined upon 
 as a suitable time to tender a reception to M.". W.". William 
 Sherer, Grand Master, a vast number of brethren assembled to 
 
43 HISTOEY OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 
 
 do Mm honor. Upon his arrival at the Lodge, he was received 
 with a heartiness which must have convinced him that he was 
 very near to the hearts of the members of " Old Commonwealth." 
 His welcome was as sincere and earnest as it was hearty, for 
 the brethren knew that in receiving him they were doing homage 
 not only to the Grand Master, but also to an old friend and 
 well beloved brother. 
 
 He was accompanied by the following Grand Officers: 
 
 M.'. W.-. J. W. Vrooman, P. G. M. 
 
 E.'. W.*. J. W. Eichardson, Grand Marshal. 
 
 " L. Love, D. D. G. M., Third District. 
 
 " J. L. Drummond, D. D. G. M., Second District. 
 
 " F. A. Burnham, Ch. Com. Appeals. 
 
 " W. H. Andrews, Com. Appeals. 
 
 " J. W. Evans, Grand Steward. 
 
 " E. M. Morgan, Grand Steward. 
 
 " J. Stewart, Trustee, Hall and Asylum Fund. 
 
 " J. E. Morse, Trustee, Hall and Asylum Fund. 
 
 " J. F. Collins, P. D. D., Fourth District. 
 
 " P. L. Schenck, P. D. D., Third District. 
 
 " M. Grimes, P. D. D., Third District. 
 
 " E. T. Griggs, P. D. D., Third District. 
 
 " W. H. Sutton, P. D. D., Second District. 
 
 " H. J. Carter, Grand Librarian. 
 
 " Breunich, D. D. G. M., Twenty-eighth District. 
 
 " A. A. Butler, D. D. G. M., Fifth District. 
 During the evening addresses were made by M.". W.*. Bro. 
 Sharer, M.\ W.'. Bro. Vrooman, E.\ W.". Bro. Collins, E.*. 
 W.'. Bro. Burnham, E.'. W.'. Bro. Stewart, and E.'. W.". 
 Bro. Love, and a number of choice and appropriate selections 
 were rendered by the Stella Quartette. 
 
 In 1893, the Lodge determined to move from 317 Washington 
 Street to 153 Pierrepont Street, our present quarters, and on 
 
HISTORY OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 43 
 
 December 26, on motion of E.". W.'. Theodore A. Taylor, " that 
 a committee of eleven be appointed to make arrangements for the 
 dedication of the new rooms," the Master appointed Bros. Joseph 
 Stockbridge, P. Evans, E. J. Campbell, W. Bamber, F. H. 
 Wight, T. A. Taylor, J. W. Evans, E. Knowles, J. A. 
 Bennet, U. T. Eackenthall, and G. E. E. Pearsall. Bro. Taylor 
 was selected to act as chairman. 
 
 At the regular communication of January 30, 1894, the 
 following letter was read : 
 
 "85 Pierrepont Street, Brooklyn, F. Y. 
 "Me. Theodoee A. Taylor: 
 
 " Dear Sir and Bro. : Having for several winters past oc- 
 casionally visited Commonwealth Lodge, and appreciating its 
 hospitality, I hand you herewith check for $35 as a contribution 
 for a clock for your new and beautiful room. 
 
 " If I was not a resident of another State, and member of a 
 Lodge there, I should apply for membership in Fo. 409. 
 " With best wishes for you and ' Commonwealth,' I am, 
 
 " Yours truly, 
 
 "B. C. Easton." 
 
 The letter was received and spread in full upon the minutes, 
 and the thanks of the Lodge were sent to Bro. Easton. 
 
 The clock now hangs upon the wall of the Lodge room. 
 
 On this same evening, E.'. W.'. Bro. Taylor, Chairman of 
 Committee on Dedication, reported that the .Grand Master would 
 dedicate our room on the evening of February 27. 
 
 At that time (February 27, 1894) the Grand Marshal of the 
 Grand Lodge entered the Lodge room, and announced that the 
 Grand Master and staff were in waiting to enter and dedicate 
 the room. They were admitted, received with honors, and per- 
 formed the ceremony of dedication in due and ancient form. 
 
M.-, 
 
 . w.- 
 
 E.-. 
 
 w.- 
 
 €< 
 
 cc 
 
 44 HISTORY OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 
 
 The following distinguished Craftsman took part in the 
 ceremony : 
 
 F. A. Burnham, Grand Master. 
 E. T. Griggs, D. G. M. 
 J. W. Eiehardson, S. G. W. 
 
 " " J. Hnggins, J. G. W. 
 
 " " A. A. Butler, G. Treasurer. 
 
 " " Townsend Scudder, S. G. D. 
 
 " " J. Miller, J. G. D. 
 
 " " E. W. Eichardson, G. Chaplain. 
 Bro. Stoekbridge, Bearer of the Holy Scriptures. 
 M.-. W.-. J. J. Couch, P. G. M. 
 
 " " WilUam Sherer, P. G. M. 
 E.-. W.-. G. F. E. Pearsall, Architect. 
 
 " " J. Metzka, Grand Sword Bearer. 
 
 " " Marion Grimes, Grand Standard Bearer. 
 
 " " Bro. Blwood, Grand Steward. 
 
 " " Bro. Scudder, Grand Steward. 
 
 " " J. Hoole, Grand Tiler. 
 
 In addition to the above, there were present some thirty-odd 
 Masters and Past Masters of the different Lodges in the Dis- 
 trict, and as many other members of the Craft as could possibly 
 crowd into the room. 
 
 After the ceremony a banquet was served, and responses were 
 made to the following toasts by the brethren named : 
 
 " The Grand Lodge of the State of ISTew York," 
 
 By M.'. W.-. Frederick A. Burnham, G. M. 
 
 " Freemasonry," 
 
 M.'. W.'. Frank E. Lawrence. 
 
 " The Third Masonic District," 
 
 M.-. W.-. William Sherer. 
 
HISTORY OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 4:5 
 
 *' Our Home at Utica," 
 
 E.'. W.-. E. M. L. Ehlers. 
 
 " Our Guests," 
 
 E.'. W.'. James G. Janeway. 
 
 " Commonwealth Lodge, No. 409," 
 
 E.-. W.-. Eufus T. Griggs. 
 
 The ceremony of dedication was conducted in a very dignified 
 and impressive manner; the banquet was all the heart of man 
 could desire, and the speeches were soul-stirring and inspiring. 
 
 All in all, it was a most delightful occasion, and will always 
 stand in the history of Commonwealth Lodge as one of its most 
 successful functions. 
 
 On the evening of October 3, 1899, E.-. W.'. Wright D. 
 Pownall, Grand Master of Masons in the State of New York, was 
 elected an Honorary Member of this Lodge, and a committee, 
 consisting of E.'. W.'. Theodore A. Taylor, E.'. W.'. William 
 Bamber, E.'. W.'. J. T. Palmer, E.'. W.'. G. F. E. Pearsall, 
 and W.'. William Bather, was appointed to procure a certif- 
 icate of Honorary Membership to be presented to the M.'. W.". 
 Brother. 
 
 On the evening of December 13,1899, M.". W.'. Bro. Pownall 
 presented himself at the Lodge, and was received by the Master 
 W.'. L. H. Quaekenboss in an appropriate address, after which 
 he was accorded the honors due his exalted station. 
 
 E.'. W.'. Bro. Taylor then arose, and in his usual touching 
 and masterly manner presented to our honored Grand Master 
 the certificate of Honorary Membership in behalf of the Lodge, 
 which had been procured by the committee appointed for this 
 purpose. 
 
 In accepting the certificate, the Grand Master spoke feel- 
 ingly of the cordial relations which had always existed between 
 
46 HISTOKT OS COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 
 
 him and the members of Commonwealth Lodge, and of the 
 esteem in which he held them both as individuals and as a Lodge. 
 He then thanked the Lodge, and expressed in his inimitable 
 manner his appreciation of the high honor which had been con- 
 ferred upon him by Commonwealth Lodge. E.". W.'. E. M. 
 L. Bhlers, Grand Secretary, then addressed the Lodge in his 
 usual pleasing and entertaining manner. 
 
 At the regular communication of December 13, 1899, a com- 
 munication was received from M.'. W.'. Wright D. Pownall, 
 Grand Master, recommending the observance of the centenary 
 of the death of Bro. George Washington upon the 31st of De- 
 cember by attending Divine worship, and the Secretary was 
 directed to confer with the Eev. 0. F. Bartholow and invite him 
 to preach a sermon to the Lodge on that evening. The invita- 
 tion was accepted by Bro. Bartholow, and on the evening of 
 December 31, 1899, the Lodge members, accompanied by the 
 members of their families, assembled at the Janes M. B. Church, 
 of which Bro. Bartholow was pastor, and listened to an elo- 
 quent memorial address in memory of Bro. George Washington. 
 
 On January 2, 1900, a vote of thanks of the Lodge was 
 tendered to Bro. Bartholow and the Trustees of the Janes M. 
 E. Church for the use of the church and Sunday school room, 
 and also for the services of the organist and choir who rendered 
 the music upon the occasion. 
 
 Commonwealth Lodge has had and has many sons of whom 
 she is justly proud, and among them all there is none in whom 
 she has greater cause to rejoice than in Theodore A. Taylor, 
 whose record for earnest, zealous work, not only for Com- 
 monwealth Lodge, but for the Order at large, stands unexcelled. 
 
 So when it was announced on the evening of May 8, 1900, 
 that he had been unanimously elected Grand Treasurer of the 
 Grand Lodge of the State of New York, the announcement was 
 received with pleasure and gratification — ^pleasure that the 
 
HISTORY OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 47 
 
 Lodge should have been so honored, and gratification that this 
 worthy brother should be selected for this distinguished office. 
 
 By order of the Lodge, a committee, consisting of G. F. B. 
 Pearsall, William Bamber, Walter Smith, Abel Crook, and H. 
 V. Schnitzspan, was appointed to procure a testimonial to be 
 presented to E.'. W.". Bro. Taylor as a visible and tangible ex- 
 pression of the pride and satisfaction which the Lodge feels 
 in having Bro. Taylor thus justly rewarded for his many years of 
 faithful service. 
 
 The committee procured a handsome silver service, and on 
 the evening of December 4, 1900, it was presented to E.'. W.'. 
 Bro. Taylor, in behalf of the Lodge, by Bro. Abel Crook. 
 
 M.-. W.-. Charles M. Mead, Grand Master; E.'. W.-. Elbert 
 Crandall, Deputy Grand Master; M.". W.-. E. M. L. Ehlers, 
 Grand Secretary, and many other officers were present. Con- 
 gratulatory letters were received from many prominent ilasons 
 in the State, and a beautiful basket of flowers was also pre- 
 sented to Bro. Taylor by Wor. Bro. Shaw, in behalf of Mistletoe 
 Lodge, No. 647. A banquet followed at the Brooklyn Club. 
 
 Bro. Taylor has been unanimously reelected each succeeding 
 year since 1900, and at the present writing is still our honored 
 Grand Treasurer. 
 
 The evening of February 18, 1902, was made memorable by 
 a series of presentations. First, Bro. Abel Crook, in behalf of the 
 Lodge, presented each of the Past Masters with a very handsome 
 Past Master's Apron, which were accepted on behalf of the Past 
 Masters by E." W.'. Frederick H. Wight in a neat and ap- 
 preciative address. Then followed a presentation by E.'. W.". 
 Theodore A. Taylor, on behalf of the Lodge, of a watch and 
 chain to E.'. W.'. Samuel Crook, who had just retired from the 
 East. Then as a further evidence of the good will of the breth- 
 ren, and their appreciation of duty well performed, E.'. W.". 
 Frederick H. Wight, on behalf of the Lodge, presented Bro. 
 
48 HISTORY OP COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 
 
 E. J. Campbell, our worthy Secretary, with a set of sterling silver 
 in recognition of his long and faithful service extending over 
 a period of twenty-six years, which was accepted by Bro. Camp- 
 bell in his usual earnest and expressive manner. 
 
 In April, 1903, a charter was granted by the Legislature of 
 the State of New York to the Brooklyn Masonic Guild, au- 
 thorizing said Guild to acquire, construct, maintain, and manage 
 a hall, temple, or other building within the Borough of Brooklyn, 
 New York City, for the use of Masonic Bodies and other fra- 
 ternal associations and benevolent organizations, and for social, 
 benevolent, and charitable purposes, and generally to promote 
 and cherish the spirit of brotherhood among the members thereof. 
 
 And out of the funds derived from rents or income thereof, 
 or other sources, to acquire, construct, establish, maintaia, and 
 manage, or contribute to the maintenance of, an asylum, a home 
 or homes, a school or schools, for the free education of the chil- 
 dren of Masons, and for the relief, support and care of 
 worthy and indigent Masons, their wives, widows, and orphans, 
 and to render direct relief to worthy and indigent Masons, their 
 wives, widows, and orphans. 
 
 The following named brethren constitute the present officers 
 of the Guild: President, E.'. W.". Wilmon WhiUdin; Yice- 
 President, E.'. W.'. Theodore A. Taylor; Treasurer, E.". W.'. 
 Charles A. Tonsor ; Secretary, Bro. William H. Cochran ; Chair- 
 man of Executive Committee, Bro. Abel Crook; and Wor.'. 
 Frank W. Eobbins, W.'. John E. Sparrow, E.'. W.'. Eobert J. 
 Kenworthy, E.'. W.'. Benjamin V. W. Owens, W.'. Thomas W. 
 Franklin, and W.'. George Freifeld, Trustees. 
 
 Under the leadership of the above named able corps of 
 officers, very satisfactory progress has been made in the col- 
 lection of funds for the erection of the proposed Guild Hall. 
 
 Voluntary donations have been received from various Lodges 
 and from individual members of the Craft, among which may be 
 
IIISTOEX OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 49 
 
 mentioned the bequest of our late brother, W:. William A. 
 Stuart, Past Master of Lafayette Lodge, and a member of Orion 
 Lodge, who died on September 30, 1903, leaving a will whereby 
 he bequeathed the sum of $100,000 to the Brooklyn Masonic 
 Guild. 
 
 In 1902 it was determined by the Guild to hold a Masonic 
 Pair, for the purpose of adding to the funds already in hand, 
 and the Lodges of the District were invited to participate in 
 the work, which invitation met with a hearty response not only 
 from the Lodges of the Third District, but also from the Lodges 
 of the Second District, who aided very materially in bringing 
 the Pair to a successful issue. Committees were appointed, con- 
 sisting of the wives, sisters, and daughters of the members of 
 the various Lodges; meetings were held, and finally the Fair 
 was opened at the Brooklyn Academy of Music on the evening 
 of April 13, 1903, by M.'. W.". Elbert Crandall, Grand Master 
 of Masons in the State of New York, accompanied by the Grand 
 Lodge officers. 
 
 The ladies appointed on the committee for Commonwealth 
 Lodge were: Mrs. Theodore A. Taylor, Chairman; Miss 
 Taylor, Mrs. Abel Crook, Miss Crook, Miss Bessie Crook, 
 Mrs. B. J. Campbell, Miss Campbell, Miss Jessie Camp- 
 bell, Miss Edith Campbell, Miss Sadie Campbell, Mrs. J. 
 A. Bennet, Mrs. E. J. Campbell, Jr., Mrs. A. L. Madison, Mrs. 
 L. H. Quackenboss, Mrs. M. S. Brown, Mrs. G. W. Van Buskirk, 
 Mrs. P. J. Purcupile, Mrs. H. G. Eskuche, Mrs. P. C. Callen, 
 Mrs. George Howland, Mrs. I. B. Ketcham, Mrs. William S. 
 Beckley, Miss Beckley, Mrs. W. H. Eankin, Mrs. C. A. England, 
 Miss Sadie Johnston, Mrs. W. E. McGuire, Miss I. Henderson, 
 Miss Edna Evans, Misses Anna and Emma Schmitt, Mrs. A. E. 
 Taylor, Mrs. A. M. Barton, Miss Howland, and Miss Marion 
 Smith. 
 
 This committee, aided by the brethren of the Lodge, entered 
 
50 HISTORY or COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 
 
 into the work with such energy and enthusiasm that at the close 
 of the Fair, Commonwealth was enabled to hand to the Treasurer 
 of the Guild $2,400 as her share of the $16,000 which was the 
 net amount realized at the Fair. 
 
 The members of Commonwealth Lodge have every reason 
 to be proud of its record. Its growth and prosperity have been 
 remarkable; starting with iifteen charter members, it had at the 
 end of the first year forty-two. From its organization in 1856 
 to the present time, a period of forty-six years, it has made and 
 affiliated one thousand eight hundred and twenty-four Master 
 Masons, and its present membership is six hundred and thirty- 
 nine. 
 
 The spirit of Fraternity and Brotherly Love has character- 
 ized its every action. Its inner history is replete with deeds of 
 charity, benevolence, and loving kindness toward the widow, the 
 orphan, and the needy brother, and as we come to the end of 
 this brief history, every member of the Lodge can truly say, 
 " I am glad that I am a Mason, and I am proud of my member- 
 ship in Commonwealth Lodge." 
 
Jn M 
 
 emoriatn 
 
 Ambeman, John D. 
 
 Brown, Eainey. 
 
 Arnold, Jacob. 
 
 Barwood, Thomas E. 
 
 Arnold, George J. 
 
 Boitel, Samuel M. 
 
 
 Bliss, H. D. 
 
 Blanklet, John J. 
 
 Baee:ee, George F. 
 
 Bethel, George A. 
 
 Baxter, William C. 
 
 Baldwin, Henet W. 
 
 
 BoGERT, George E. 
 
 Clayton, James H. 
 
 Boise, Ethan E; 
 
 Casseeley, Cheistian J. 
 
 Brown, Samuel. 
 
 Cox, Chaeles W. 
 
 Beller, Allen T. 
 
 Clements, James H. 
 
 Bartlbtt, John K. 
 
 Cummings, William. 
 
 Brush, Thomas C. 
 
 Crook, Lurad H. 
 
 Blakely, John H. 
 
 Cromwell, William H. 
 
 Birmingham, John J. 
 
 Cotton, Samuel. 
 
 Bene, William B. 
 
 Clark, Eranklin T. 
 
 BouTON, George H. 
 
 Coles, Eredeeiok H. 
 
 Bates, Erank P. 
 
 Chumaseeo, E. C. 
 
 Batlis, Samuel H. 
 
 Constable, A. G. A. 
 
 Burke, Martin. 
 
 Caeman, John. 
 
 Briggs, Lafayette E. 
 
 . Carter, Hy. V. 
 
 Bennett, Augustus. 
 
 Carr, Eeuben p. 
 
 Burlingame, Samuel L. 
 
 Cook, John E. 
 
 Blanchaed, James A. 
 
 Corson, Alex. D. 
 
 Brown, Emery. 
 
 Carey, George L. 
 
 Brown, William P. 
 
 Conant, Samuel S. 
 
5a 
 
 HISTORY OF COMMONWEAITH LODGE. 
 
 Cameron, Frank B. 
 Cornell, Thomas J. 
 Carhart, William H. 
 Clark, Eobert C. 
 Chapman, James. 
 CovAL, Charles E. 
 
 DusENBURT, George E. 
 DwYER, Thomas J. 
 Daniels, Isaac C. 
 Dempster, Henry. 
 Davis, John. 
 Dudley, Charles E. 
 Donne, Henry. 
 DiLLONO, William L. 
 Douglas, George B. 
 Deadman, James. 
 Dehen, John. 
 Downs, Jesse T. 
 Deveau, Edward A. 
 Datis, David H. 
 Deveeill, Thomas R. 
 Dubey, Charles A. 
 
 EngemAn, William A. 
 Edwards, John. 
 Ellis, Edwin A. 
 Ellis, Henry C. 
 Elford, George. 
 Egar, James J, 
 EicHBAUER, Frederick. 
 Eason, John W. 
 
 Foos, Andrew J. 
 Fox, Theodore J. 
 Frederick Ernst. 
 Field, Joseph S. 
 Fuller, James M. 
 Fearn, Herbert. 
 FisK, John A. P. 
 Ford, William F. 
 
 Gale, Monroe F. 
 
 GiLDERSLEEVE, W. H. 
 
 GuLLETT, William. 
 Garland, Francis. 
 Gould, Emmons A. 
 Gill, Cephas M. 
 Gaddis, M. p. 
 GoLDEY, James B. 
 Garrison, Peter C. 
 Griswold, Charles E. 
 Goodwin, David. 
 Gardner, Nathaniel. 
 Gallison, E. N. 
 
 Handley, Benjamin. 
 Ham, Leonard J. 
 Hull, David W. 
 HiLLYARD, William. 
 Howe, J. Newton. 
 Hayes, Thomas. 
 HoHN, Christian. 
 HoSton, Isaac 0. 
 
IN MEMORIAM. 
 
 53 
 
 HuNT^ Feanois W. 
 
 LoTT, Eldert. 
 
 Hunt, William H. 
 
 Lawrence, William A. 
 
 Haetman, Henry. 
 
 
 HiGGiNS, Egbert. 
 
 McChesney, Egbert D. 
 
 Howell, William P. 
 
 Mead, J. W. 
 
 Hard, John E. 
 
 Manning, Egbert. 
 
 Haselton, Jeremiah. 
 
 McEea, J. S. 
 
 
 McCrotty, Alexander. 
 
 Iewin, Gilbeet. 
 
 MoCreery, John. 
 
 
 MaoDougal, Wm. H. 
 
 Jones, Jonathan. 
 
 Mandeville, Stephen. 
 
 Johnson, Henet S. 
 
 Micklam, William M. 
 
 James, Morris. 
 
 Manning, William. 
 
 Jones, William H. 
 
 Marshall, George. 
 
 Jones, Eli. 
 
 McCeoskey, Eobeet. 
 
 Johnson, Sewin. 
 
 Millee, Henry G. 
 
 James, Philip C. 
 
 Morgan, William A. 
 
 Johnson. Henry S. 
 
 MoNaughton, Wm. 
 
 
 Moore, Edward. 
 
 
 McGrayne, John. 
 
 T\TNG, Silas H. 
 
 Mount, John F. 
 
 Kelly, Sr., Thomas T. 
 
 Mason, George E. 
 
 Knapp, Henry S. 
 
 Moeeison, Ed. 
 
 Knowles, Edwin. 
 
 , McCloskey, E. 
 
 
 MoCabe, John. 
 
 Lasher, Daniel. 
 
 Menzies, Henry D. 
 
 LoYDD, James Osoae. 
 
 Minis, Jr., Philip H. 
 
 Lang, John C. 
 
 Monpoet, a. W. 
 
 Learned, Amos P. 
 
 MoKelvey', William J. 
 
 Lacey, Cephas S. 
 
 Miner, J. Spencer. 
 
 Liszka, Geza C. 
 
 Morris, Henry 0. 
 
54 
 
 HISTORY OF COMMONWEALTH LODGE. 
 
 Newman, Andrew J. 
 
 Ehodes, William P. 
 
 Nightingale^ L. B. 
 
 Eiggs, Edwaed. 
 
 Need, John. 
 
 Edmmel'l, Frank H. 
 
 NoE, William H. 
 
 Eeock, George. 
 
 Neideckbe, George W. 
 
 Eebhann, Frederick W. 
 
 
 Eeed, Eowt,and. 
 
 Owen, William H. 
 
 Eeeves, James D. 
 
 OuTWATER, Jacob. 
 
 
 Otis, Benjamin W. 
 
 Showering, Fred. W. 
 
 
 Smith, William H. 
 
 Pentland, James M. 
 
 Stebbins, John H, 
 
 Pritchard, Joseph. 
 
 Shaight, Heney J. 
 
 Peters, M. B. 
 
 Storgess, E. J. 
 
 Pentland, Joseph. 
 
 Swain, Charles E. 
 
 Paul, Daniel. 
 
 Selvage, J. Watson. 
 
 Pearsall, E. W. 
 
 Snell, F. E. S. 
 
 PiNKERTON, James. 
 
 Shippie, Abbott J. 
 
 Penny, Henry B. 
 
 Scott, Joseph. 
 
 Phraner, Egbert M. 
 
 Sample, William J. 
 
 Parcell, Harvey. 
 
 Sohlueter, Gustave. 
 
 Pare:er, James. 
 
 Shaw, Wilbur. 
 
 Price, Justin F. 
 
 Saunders, Joseph. 
 
 Perry, Chaeles F. 
 
 Stow, Benjamin J. 
 
 Pike, Charles A. 
 
 ScuDDER, James M. 
 
 Pendleton, Henry F. 
 
 Stephenson, Wm. W. 
 
 Palmer, John T. 
 
 Saw yk-r, John H. 
 
 
 Smithson, John T. 
 
 Eoss, Edwin. 
 
 Stanley, Leonard Y. 
 
 EiTCHiE, David. 
 
 Smith, Samuel. 
 
 Eunyon, Egbert. 
 
 Sewell, George. 
 
 Eegan, Thomas. 
 
 Savage, Henry. 
 
IN MEMOEIAM. 
 
 55 
 
 Simpson^ David S. 
 SiMS^ Jaspee N. 
 Skieving^ John H. 
 Smith^ Hiram F. 
 Seimees^ Geoege J. 
 Seeea, M. 
 
 SpENCEE^ J. MiNEE. 
 SCUDDEE^ EpH. 
 
 tuenee^ eobeet b. 
 Tylee, Chakles. 
 TosHAOK^ William. 
 Tatloe, John. 
 Thompson, James A. 
 Teeloae^ William. 
 Thatcher, Thomas. 
 Ttlee, John E. 
 TiCE, William E. 
 Thomas, Walter G. 
 Towns, Frank A. 
 Tapp, Finlay W. 
 Thomas, Eobeet. 
 Teundy, a. S. 
 
 Van Gilder, Jeremiah. 
 Van Pelt, Wm. 
 Van N"amee, James. 
 Veedee, a. G. 
 
 Van dee Willigan, P. 
 Van Duyne, George G. 
 
 West, Geoege L. 
 Wakefield, Thomas. 
 Whitney, Thomas C. 
 Williams, William. 
 WiLDMAN, M. K. 
 Wheelee, David E. 
 Weight, Thomas D. 
 White, William. 
 Wells, Edwaed H. 
 Weston, Daniel. 
 Washbuen, W. L. 
 WiLLDiGG, William. 
 Waycott, Eichaed. 
 Watees, John. 
 Wagner, John P. 
 Woodward, John B. 
 Weight, William S. 
 Williamson, C. G. 
 Williams, John S. 
 Weight, G. F. J. 
 Walsh, Ealph. 
 Wodell, Joseph. 
 
 Yates, George E. 
 Yates, John. 
 Young, William H. 
 
Officers of 
 Commonwealth Lodge, No. 409, F. & A. M. 
 
 1903. 
 
 Edwaed AV. Weight, M.D Master 
 
 Abel Crook Senior Warden 
 
 Aethtjk L. Weight Junior Warden 
 
 E.'. W. . Theodore A. Taylor Treasurer 
 
 E. J. Caimpbell Secretary 
 
 P. 0. Box 161, Brooklyn, N. Y. 
 
 H. G. Lochmuller Senior Deacon 
 
 G. H. De W. Marttn Junior Deacon 
 
 H. C. Badglet S.M.C. 
 
 P. LOESEE J. M. C. 
 
 George N. Morrison S. S. 
 
 W. G. Bampton J. S. 
 
 E. Stevens Chaplain 
 
 W. H. Steers, M.D Marshal 
 
 H. G. Eskuche Organist 
 
 John Fulcher Tiler 
 
 Trustees. 
 K.-. W.-. G. F. E. Pearsali, 
 
 Joseph Stockbridge, 
 
 W.'. John A. Bennet. 
 
 Finance Committee. 
 
 J. W. Cooper, 
 
 W. S. Becklet, 
 
 E.. W.'. Frederick H. Wight. 
 
 Committee on Claims. 
 
 F. C. Callen, 
 
 A. E. Biedeeman, 
 
 J. W. Eason. 
 
Past Masters of 
 Commonwealth Lodge, No. 409, F. & A. M. 
 
 *EoBEET D. McChesnet. 
 *Benjamin Price. 
 *James M. Fuller. 
 
 Nathaniel Gladding. 
 
 Lester W. Beaslet. 
 
 James M. Eowan. 
 *Henry S. Knapp. 
 
 Frederick H. Wight. 
 
 Timothy B. Linington. 
 *JoHN T. Palmer. 
 
 Theodore A. Taylor. 
 A. L. 
 
 G. Frank E. Peaesall. 
 John W. Evans. 
 *Edwin Knowles. 
 John A. Bennet. 
 
 *ElCHAED WaYCOTT. 
 
 U. T. Fackenthall. 
 William T. Bather. 
 E. J. Campbell^ Jr. 
 William Bamber. 
 L. H. Quackenboss. 
 Samuel Crook. 
 Madison. 
 
 Life Members. 
 
 Joseph Stockbridge. William Howard. 
 
 Felix Evans. 
 
 Honorary Members. 
 
 W.". George B. NiOHOLL. E.'. W.'. Thomas Marchant. 
 *E.-. W.". B. W. EiCHARDsoN. M.'. W.". Wright D. Pownall. 
 
 • Deceased. 
 
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