NSGSM- ANNEX LIBRARY B 105407 CORNELL UNIVERSITY LIBRARY Cornell University Library 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/cu31924030288652 ADDRESS. Brethren : "We are assembled to-day in the One Hundred and Fifteenth Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge under most aus- picious circumstances. During the year we have progressed with the spirit of the age. So efficiently have the officers of the Grand Lodge served the Craft, and so conscientiously have the Masters, Officers, and Brethren performed their duties, that I am constrained at the very threshold of our Annual Gathering to extend my most sincere congratulations, coupled with hearty greetings, to you the EeiDresentatives of more than ninety thou- sand loyal and steadfast Craftsmen. Happily, no controversy divides our people, and no spirit of contention seems to exist. Indeed, the quiet and harmony which prevail throughout the jurisdiction appears to leave little requiring our attention, save the transaction of routine business. Our Annual Communication, however, serves another purpose. It enables us for the time being to lay aside all dis- tinctive titles, speak to each other face to face, as Brother to Brother, and exchange friendly greetings as we assume our places in the Council Chamber of the Craft. Some are here for the first time, mingling with those worn and tried by long service. Some come from the busy centers of commercial life, others from the ceaseless hum of industry, and others from the peaceful shade of mountain-side and lake and stream, where nature presents her richest products of utility and beauty. In this assemblage we have the ardor of intelligent young manhood, and the wisdom and experience of mature age. Here, with grateful acknowledgments to an All- Wise Provi- dence under whose beneficent guidance our Fraternity has been led where peace and plenty abound, we commence our deliberations. Before proceeding to other matters, let us pause to pay a debt of Justice to the memory of our Featernal Dead. Since last we met, fourteen of our Brethren who had attained high rank in the Craft haye been called to that bourne "whence no braveller returns." E. •. W. •. Ebwaed B. Harpee, President of the Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Asylum Fund, died in the City of New York on the 3d day of July, 1895. Brother Harper was known to you all as a zealous Crafts- man, foremost in every good work and tireless in the interest of the Fraternity. As a man, he was incapable of doing or saying a mean thing. One who knew him best truthfully bears testi- mony to his goodness of heart in these words : " ISTo needy Brother ever appealed to Brother Harper for relief in vain. He could not bear to see suffering go unaided, and in conse- quence many men, not bound to him by fraternal fellowship, profited by his bounty. We mourn him as a loving Brother." It was my melancholy privilege to perform the rites of the Fraternity at the grave of Brother Harper in Mount Hope Cemetery. R. •. W. •. Samuel C. Seaman, Past D.D.G-.M., died at Hemp- stead on the 36th day of July, 1895. Although more than three score years and ten at the time of his death, his sympathies were warmly enlisted in the Craft ; and from the time of his initiation, in early manhood, to tbe very last moment of his existence, he faithfully and conscientiously discharged all the duties of the Fraternity committed to his care. M. •. W.". John Hodge, Past Grand Master, died at Lockport on the 7th day of August, 1895. The death of Brother Hodge closed a Masonic career of rare honor and usefulness. His Masonic life was a eulogy upon the Fraternity ; his charity was unselfish, his generosity unstinted, and his purity of character an example for all men. Truthfulness, fidelity, and honor were his ascribed character- istics. He was a devoted friend, a loyal Mason, beloved and respected at home and abroad. On the day of his obsequies, business was entirely suspended in the city of Lockport, and all the citizens of that place, irrespective of sect or creed, joined in doing honor to his memory. M. •. "W. •. Benjamin" Plaglee, Past Grand Master, read the burial service of our Fraternity at the grave, assisted by the E.'. W.-. William A. Scthekland, Deputy Grand Master, as Grand Chaplain. Very rarely so touching a tribute has been paid to a man as that witnessed at the burial of our lamented Past Grand Master. After the. Brethren, assembled around that open graye, had deposited thei-e- in a sprig of acacia, the orphan children of the Home for the Friendless marched past it, each depositing a bouquet of flowers, as a last tribute to their friend and benefactor. " To live in hearts we leave bebind, Is not to die." R. •. W. •. Ely S. Paekek, Past Grand Orator, of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, died at Fairfield, Conn., on the 30th day of August, 1895. Beothee Paekee was the first Master of Akron Lodge, No. 527, of this jurisdiction, and a member of that Lodge at the time of his death. He was a full-blooded Indian, a grand- nephew of Red Jacket, and was chief of the Seneca tribe and titular king of the Six Nations, his Indian name being Do-ne- ho-ga-wa. He resided for a time in Galena, 111., and there be- came acquainted with General Grant, upon whose staff he -sub- sequently served in the capacity of private secretary, attaining the rank of Brigadier-General. It was he who copied the sur- render of Lee at Appomattox from the pencil draft made by Grant. He was not only as brave as his celebrated uncle, but also as eloquent. In alluding to himself at a banquet in a Western city, he said : " I am almost the sole remnant of what was once a noble race, which is as rapidly disappearing as the dew before the morning sun. I found my race wasting away, and I asked my- self. Where shall I find home and sympathy, when our last council fire is extinguished ? I said, I will knock at the door of Masonry, and see if the white race will recognize me, as they did my ancestors, when we were strong and the white man weak. I knocked at the door of the Lodge, and found brotherhood aroiTnd its altar ; I went before the Great Light in the Chapter, and found companionship beneath the Eoyal Arch. I entered the Encampment, and found there valiant Sir Knights willing to shield me without regard to race or nation. I am happy to meet you in the Grand Councils of the gathering, and to share these greetings and hospitalities. I feel assured that, when my glass is run out and I shall follow the footsteps of my departed race, Masonic sympathizers will cluster around my cofiBn, and drop in my lonely grave the evergreen acacia, sweet emblem of a better meeting. If my race shall disappear from the continent, I have a consoling hope that our memory shall not perish. If the deeds of my ancestors shall not live in story, their memories will remain in the names of our lakes and rivers, your towns and cities, and will call up memories otherwise forgotten." Beothek Pakkek was a man of fine physique, and possessed to a marked degree the strong race characteristics of his people. Although his face in repose seemed stern and unrelenting^ his nature in fact was as gentle and kind as a woman's. K. •. W. •. Charles H. Hall, Past Grand Chaplain, died at Brooklyn, September 12, 1895. De. Hall, for many years, and up to the time of his death, was the Eector of Holy Trinity, the most influential Protestant Episcopal Church in that city. He was beloved, not only by the members and congregation of his church, but also by the entire Craft of the 3d Masonic District, whose communications he frequently attended. He was a deep thinker, a forceful speaker, a delightful companion, whose presence at our Lodge gatherings gave instruction and pleasure to all. E.-. W. ■. Stephen L. Stillman, Past D.B.G.M., died at Greenwich, October 8, 1895. This talented and useful Craftsman was beloved and respected by all in his own immediate locality. A distinguished brother has left this graceful tribute to his memory: "Fearlessly he entered the dawn that we call Death. Unshrinkingly he passed beyond our horizon — beyond the twilight's purple hills, beyond the utmost reach of human harm or help — to that vast realm of joy where the innumerable dwell, and he has left with us his. wealth of though b and deed, the memory of a braye, courageous, honest man, who bowed alone to Death." E.". W.". William H. Corsa, Eepresentatire of the G-rand Lodge of Georgia, died at Youkers, NoveOiber 3, 1895. Brothbe Coesa was well known to many of you, having for a number of years held the place of Assistant to the Grand Sec- retary, and Clerk to the Trustees of the Hall and Asylum Fund. He was a gentleman by nature and culture, the soul of honor and integrity, and true as steel to his many friends. He was among the thousands of young men who, early in our great war, gave their services to the flag. At eighteen years of age he had attained a commission, and before he reached man's estate he had been twice promoted. He left the service, after participating in many of the hard-fought battles of that war, with the rank of major. His untimely death was consequent upon the severe wounds he received in action. From the time he was wounded until the lamp of his life went out, he was a constant sufferer. In civil life he held many important offices, among them that of Representative of the 9th District in the Legislature of the State. In all these positions he acquitted , himself most creditably. His memory will long be cherished by a great number of men who were permitted to call him friend. R.-. W.-. Samuel W. Johnson, Past D.D.G.M., died at Mamaroneck, ISTovember 25, 1895. Brothbk Johnson was a gentleman of the old school, courtly, urbane, and highly respected by all who knew him. He also occupied many positions of trust and responsibility, attaining .high rank in the councils of the State. Although many years had elapsed since he held the position of District Dep- uty Grand Master, his interest in the Lodge of which he was a member never ceased, and his devotion to the cause of Masonry ended only with his death. R.-. W. •. Herman G. Carter, Past Grand Librarian, died at New York, December 6, 1895. For ten years this brother conscientiously and faithfully dis- charged the duties of Grand Librarian. For twenty-one years 8 he was the Secretary of his Lodge^ holding that office at the time of his death. It may be said of him that he was a modest, unas- suming man^ yet firm and just in the performance of erery duty. Those who knew him best, respected him most. He filled a useful and honorable life, and his Brethren fully appreciated his work and worth. E. •. W.-. Ohakles W. Jackson, Past D.D.G.M., died at Abi- lene, Texas, January 5, 1896. The death of Bkothbe Jackson was a great shock to us all. He left here, a short time before his demise, in the enjoyment of perfect health, to fulfill a business engagement in Texas. There, far away from home and friends, the messenger of death touched him. It can be said of Beothee Jackson that he was a faith- ful friend, a true Mason, and an upright gentleman. E. •- W.-. William S. Dueyea, Past D.D.G.M., died at Brook- lyn, February 5, 1896. Beothee Duetea was perhaps as favorably, and well known in that part of the city of Brooklyn formerly called Williams- burgh as any of its residents. He too, like our friend and Brother, Ooesa, attained rank, honor, and wounds in the service of his country. He was a most capable and efficient officer. In the cavalry arm of the Union service he attained the rank of Captain, and received the highest testimonials throughout the period of his active service in the Army. E.-- W.-. Hbnet G. Banks, Past D.D.G.M., died at New York, March 24, 1896. Up to last year this Brother was, and had been for a quarter of a century, the Eepresentative of the Grand Lodge of Texas near the Grand Lodge of New York. In the early days of the present formation of Masonic Districts, he was the District Deputy Grand Master of what was then known as the 1st District, and discharged the duties of that office with signal ability. His reports to the Grand Master, printed with the Proceedings of that day, give evidence of great zeal and atten- tion to the duties of his office. R. •. W. •. John F. Collins, Representatiye of the Grand Lodge of South Australia, died at New York, March 39, 1896. Our Beothbb Collins was a steadfast and true friend, and drew men to him by his cordiality and courtesy. In our Masonic gatherings his presence was always appreciated. Personally he was of a warm and genial nature, with a faculty of maMng friends. He was open-handed and generous, ever ready to respond to the cry of distress. Gifted far beyond his fellows — a ready, fluent, and eloquent speaker, loving, tender, gentle, and sympathetic — his memory will remain with us as that of the Ideal Mason. E.-. W.-. Claud Wilson, Past D.D.G.M., died at Waterville, April 22, 1896. Dk. Wilson was a man of strong brain, and of wide culture and learning. In nature and manner he was kindly, winning, and courtly. He was clean and pure of life, honest in thought and deed. He was in close touch and sympathy with the people of his locality. He loved them, and all who knew him loved him. He lived a noble life, and his "epitaph is graven, not on stone, but on the hearts of men.-" The Committee on Deceased Brethren, to whom the follow- ing death roll of our Craft is submitted, will doubtless report at this Session of the Grand Lodge, for our permanent record, suitable expressions of regret and sympathy. The Featbenal Dead. M. •. W. •. David Oaegill, Past Grand Master of Masons in the State of Maine, died at Livermore Falls, June 6, 1895. R.-. W. •. William B. Isaacs, Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Virginia, died at Richmond, June 9, 1895. R. •. W.'. Edwaed B. Haepee, President of the Trustees of the Masonic Hall & Asylum Fund, died at New York, July 2, 1895. 10 M. •. W. •. EiCHAED 0. Hickman, Past Grand Master of Masons in the State of Montana, died at Chicago, Illinois, Jaly 20, 1895. M.-. W.\ Edwaeb a. Stevenson, Past Grand Master and Ex- Governor of Idaho, died at Paraiso Springs, Cali- fornia, July 25, 1895. R. •. W.-. Samuel 0. Seaman, Past District Deputy Grand Master, died at Hempstead, July 26, 1895. M. •. W. •. John Hodge, Past Grand Master^ died at Lockport, August 7, 1895. E. •- W.-. Ely S. Paekek, Past Grand Orator of the Grand Lodge of Illinois, died at Eairfield, Oonnecticat, August 30, 1895. R. •. W.". Chaeles H. Hall, Past Grand Chaplain, died at Brooklyn, September 12, 1895. M.-. W. ■. John C. Hazlet, Grand Master of Masons in the State of Nevada, died at Dayton, October 3, 1895. R.-. W. •. Stephen L. Stillman, Past District Deputy Grand Master, died at Greenwich, October 8, 1895. R. •- W.-. William H. Ooesa, Past District Deputy Grand Mas- ter, died at Yonkers, November 2, 1895. M. •. W. •. Michael Shoemaker, Past Grand Master of Masons in the State of Michigan, died at Jackson, Novem- ber 10, 1895. R. •. W. •. Samuel W. Johnson, Past District Deputy Grand Master, died at Mamaroneck, November 25, 1895. R. •. W.-. Heeman G. Oaetee, Past Grand Librarian, died at New York, December 6, 1895, R.-. W. •. Chaeles W. Jackson, Past District Deputy Grand Master, died at Abilene, Texas, January 5, 1896. M. ■. W.'. Albeet J. Russell, Past Grand Master of Masons in the State of Florida, died at Jacksonville, January 17, 1896. 11 R. ■. W. •- William S. Duetea, Past District Deputy Grand Master, died at Brooklyn, Eebruary 5, 1896. E. •. W. ■• Henet C. Banks, Past District Deputy Grand Mas- ter, died at New York, March 34, 1896. R.-. W.-. John- P. Collins, Representative of the Grand Lodge of South Australia, died at New York, March 39, 1896. M.-. W.-. George E. Dowling, Past Grand Master of Michi- gan, died at Montague, March 30, 1896. M. •- W. •. John E. Jones, Past Grand Master and Governor of Nevada, died at San Francisco, Oal. , April 10, 1896. R. •. W. •. Claud "Wilson, Past District Deputy Grand Master, died at Waberville, April 33, 1896. R. •. W. •. Michael Nisbet, Grand Secretary and Past Grand Master of Pennsylvania, died at Philadelphia, May 7, 1896. Dispensations. 1895. June 7, To various Brethren to establish a Lodge at Liberty. June 10, To W. •. John A. Wikt, Past Master of Morning Star Lodge, No. 65, to preside in said Lodge until the annual election, the first three oflBcers having removed from Canisteo. June 13, To R. •. W. •. John Sloane, Past District Deputy Grand Master, to constitute Arion Lodge, No. 812, at Little Valley, and install its oflScers on the 9th day of July, 1895. June 13, To R. •- W.-. Chaeles M. Wickwiee, Past District Deputy Grand Master, to constitute Sconondoa Lodge, No. 814, at Vernon, and install its oflBcers on the 13th day of July, 1895, June 13, To M. •. W. •. James Ten Eyck, Past Grand Master, to lay the corner-stone of the new Masonic Temple at Albany, on the 34th day of June, 1895. 13 July 26, To Dansville Lodge, No. 478, to continue work in such secure place as may be obtained, the Lodge room and warrant having been destroyed by fire. July 36, To M.'. W.-. John- W.VKOOMAur, Past Grand Master, to lay the corner-stone of the new County Clerk's Office at Herkimer, on the 3d day of August, 1895. Aug. 16, To R.-. W.-. William A. Sutherland, Deputy Grrand Master, to constitute John Hodge Lodge, No. 815, at Naples, install its officers, and dedicate its rooms on the 3d day of September, 1895. Aug. 33, To E. •. W. •. William A. Sutherland, Deputy Grand Master, to dedicate the new rooms of Mon- roe Lodge, No. 173, on the 10th day of September, 1895. Aug. 30, To Macedon Lodge, No. 665, to continue work in such secure place as may be obtained, pending the building of new Lodge-rooms, the old rooms being insecure for Masonic purposes. Sept. 5, To R. -. W. •. Charles L. Fellows, District Deputy Grand Master, to lay the corner-stone of the new Methodist Episcopal Church, at Dolgeville, on the 10th day of September, 1895. Sept. 21, To R. •. W. •. Charles W. Cushman, Junior Grand Warden, to lay the corner-stone of the new City Hall at Jamestown, on the 38th day of September, 1895. Nov. 19, To Standard Lodge, No. 711, to continue work, the warrant of said Lodge having been stolen from a safe blown open by burglars. Nov. 39, To W. •. Christopher N. De Witt, Master of King- ston Lodge, No. 10, to lay the corner-stone of the new church at Rosendale, on the 7th day of De- cember, 1895. Dec. 17, To La Sincerite Lodge, No. 373, to elect and install officers. 13 Dec. 17, To Darcy Lodge, No. 187, to install officers. Dec. 20, To Marble Lodge, No. 703, to elect and install the Senior Warden. Dec. 31, To Aurora Lodge, No. 383, to elect and install officers. Dec. 26, To Copernicus Lodge, No. 545, to elect and install the Junior Warden. Dec. 26, To St. Cecile Lodge, No. 568, to install officers. Dec. 26, To G-lendale Lodge, No. 497, to elect and install Master and Senior Warden. Dec. 28, To Klopstock Lodge, No. 760, to elect and install officers. Dec. 38, To Stony Point Lodge, No. 313, to elect and install officers. Dec. 38, To Germania Lodge, No. 733, to elect and install officers. Dec. 28, To Harmonie Lodge, No. 699, to elect Senior War- den and install officers. 1896. Jan. 3, To Salt Springs Lodge, No. 520, to install officers. Jan. 3, To Olive Branch Lodge, No. 39, to install officers. Jan. 4, To Golden Eule Lodge, No. 770, to install officers. Jan. 7, To Auburn Lodge, No. 431, to install officers. Jan. 9, -To Olympia Lodge, No. 808, to install officers. Jan. 10, To Munn Lodge, No. 190, to install officers. Jan. 11, To Pultneyville Lodge, No. 159, to elect and install the Junior Warden. Jan. 14, To Wayne Lodge, No. 416, to install officers. Jan. 14, To Solomon's Lodge, No. 196, to install officers. Jan. 16, To Warwick Lodge, No. 544, to install the Master. Jan. 33, To Ellicottville Lodge, No. 307, to install the Master. 14 Jan. 24, To Mt. Lebanon Lodge, No. 775, to install officers. Jan. 25, To various Brethren to establish a Lodge in the City of Brooklyn. Feb. 6, To Laurens Lodge, No. 548, to install officers. Feb. 10, To various Brethren to establish a Lodge at Angelica. Feb. 12, To various Brethren to establish a Lodge in the City of New York. Feb. 15, ToE.-. W.-. Darius A. Daniels, District Deputy Grand Master, to dedicate the new rooms of Oana- seraga Lodge, No. 781, on the 20th day of Feb-, ruary, 1896. Feb. 21, To Laurens Lodge, No. 548, to elect and install the Senior Warden. Feb. 24, To Hancock Lodge, No. 552, to elect and install the Master. March 21, To Klopstock Lodge, No. 760, to install the Master. April 11, To Glen Cove Lodge, No. 580, to continue work in such secure place as may be obtained pending the completion of new rooms. April 21, To E.\ W.'. Albbed Ostbrlakd, District Deputy Grand Master, to dedicate the new rooms of Coper- nicus Lodge, No. 545, on the 1st day of May, 1896. April 27, To W. •. Joseph Duncan, Master of Fort Plain Lodge, No. 433, to lay the corner-stone of the TJniversalist Church at Fort Plain, on the 2d day of May, 1896. May 12, To Olive Branch Lodge, No. 40, to continue work in such secure place as may be obtained pending the construction of new rooms. Appointments. 1895. June 27, E.-. W.-. Christian E. E. Gheistophekson, Eepre- sentative of the Grand Lodge of New York near that of Norway. 15 July 8, K.-. W.-. James B. G-illie, Trustee of the Masonic Hall and Asylum Fund, vice Harper deceased. July 33, R. •. W. ■. Hejs^ey Geaham, Eepresentative of the Grand Lodge of New York near that of New Brunswick. Aug. 14, M.-. W.-. William F. MacCot, Eepresentative of the Grand Lodge of New York near that of Nova Scotia. AOCBEDITBD. 1895. Sept. 5, E.-. W.-. Valentiis-b Schneidee, Eepresentative of the Grand Lodge of Victoria. Oct. 23j E.-. W.\ Geoege "W. Aenold, Eepresentative of the Grand Lodge of Quebec. Nov. 35, R.-. W.-. James Smilie, Eepresentative of the Grand Lodge of New Mexico. Dec. 3, E. •- "W. •. EiCHAED W. L'Hommedieu, Eepresenta- tive of the Grand Lodge of Norway. 1896. Jan. 3, E.-. "W.-. Henet Vok Minden, Eepresentative of the Grand Lodge of Texas. Jan. 30, E. •. W. •. John W. Allison, Eepresentative of the Grand Lodge of Georgia. Feb. 1, E. •. W. •. Gael Moebius, Eepresentative of the Grand Lodge of Saxony. Feb. 10, R.'. W. •. Joseph A. Lackey, Eepresentative of the Grand Lodge of Mississippi. Feb. 30, E.-. W.-. Edwin Knowles, Eepresentative of the Grand Lodge of Ehode Island. March 6, E.*. W.*- Albeet Janicke, Eepresentative of the Grand Lodge of The Three Globes. April 7, E.'. W.'. David M. Deuet, Eepresentative of the Grand Lodge of Wisconsin. 16 CEREMOlflES. 1895. June 27, The Grand Master constituted Hebron Lodge, No. 813, and installed its oflBcers. July 39, The Grand Master laid the comer-stone of the Mun- son Williams Memorial, the new building of the Oneida Historical Society, at Utica. Aug. 31, The Grand Master laid the comer-stone of the new Masonic Temple at Cohoes. Official Visitations. During the year I haye visited almost every portion of this State, and have everywhere been received loyally and kindly. Notwithstanding my long service and active interest in Masonry, I must confess that I knew but little of the real worth and true character of many of my Brethren until I went among them in their homes. The impressions received can never be effaced from my memory. List op Visits. 1895. July 9, To the Brethren of the 17th District at TJtica. Aug. 13 to 15, To the Brethren of the 18th District at Coopers- town. Aug. 31, To the Brethren of the 12th District at Cohoes. Sept. 16 to 18, To the Brethren of the 35th District at Buffalo. Sept. 39, To the Brethren of the 28th District at their home at Tappan. Oct. 31, To the Brethren of the 27th District at Stapleton. Nov. 19, To the Brethren of the 21st District at Lyons. Nov. 21, To the Brethren of the 9th District at Peekskill. Dec. 4, To the Brethren of the 1st District at Patchogue. Dec. 6, To the Brethren of the 29th District at New York. Dec. 10, To the Brethren of the 23d District at Rochester. 17 1896. Jan. 7, To the Brethren of the 3d District at Brooklyn. Jan. 9, To the Brethren of the 9th District at Mamaroneck. Jan. 14, To the Brethren of the 18th District at Binghamton. Jan. 16, To the Brethren of the^lSth District at Schenectady. Jan. 39, To the Brethren of the 7th District at New York. Feb. 7, To the Brethren of the 3d District at Brooklyn. Feb. 11, To the Brethren of the 9th District at Poughkeepsie. Feb. 13, To the Brethren of the 19th District at Weedsport. Feb. 37, To the Brethren of the 8th District at New York. Mar. 35, To the Brethren of the 5th District at New York. Mar. 30, To the Brethren of the 4th District at New York. Mar. 31, To the Brethren of the 38th District at New York. Apr. 39, To the Brethren of the 6th District at New York. Constitution' and Statutory Revision. At the last Annual Communication the Commission of Constitution and Statutory Revision presented a proposed new Constitution, which was adopted so far as it could be at that time. A copy of the proposed Constitution was mailed to each representative for examination,' and suggestions concerning it were at the same time invited. The Commission has labored zealously in this important work, and will present for final adop- tion, at this Annual Communication, the result of its labors, including all amendments to date that have met with approval. While it is not claimed that the proposed Constitution is per- fect, still it certainly possesses marked improvements over the one it is intended to replace. Experience has taught us, while laws can be made that will answer for our general government, exigencies will arise, in a Jurisdiction so extensiA'e and ever extending as our own, demand- ing special legislation to meet them. While upon this subject, I would suggest that the Commission on Constitution and 2 18 Statutory ReTision be continued, to revise and simplify the Code of Procedure, so that trial commissioners, in the unpleasant though necessary discharge of their duties, may be able to act understandingly, and both defendant and plaintifE know their exact status under the law. A code is needed under which a brother on trial, if innocent, will be acquitted, but if guilty will be properly disciplined, and where advantage cannot be taken of technicalities to circumvent justice. "WoKK AND Lectures. Earnest effort has been made to secure proficiency in our work and lectures, and has met with good result. In most of the Lodges a commendable pride is manifested in the rendition of the work, and no effort is spared to attain the highest degree of accuracy. In my visits to the several districts! have been pleased to learn of the "good work" done by the Lodges. The appointment of R. •. W. ". John R. Pope as Grand Lecturer appears to have met with general favor throughout the State. In securing for this position one long experienced in our ritual and most courteous in imparting the work, we have been fortunate. Hall akd Astldm Fund. The condition of the Masonic Hall and Asylum Fund can- not fail to be most gratifying to you all. With over $41,000 in its General Fund and over $189,000 in its Reserve, nearly all of which is safely invested in bond and mortgage — a total of over $330,000 — the future of the Home would appear to be assured. In order to provide accommodation for the constantly in- creasing number seeking our protection, the Trustees have arranged for the erection of a building adjacent to the main building, and connected therewith by a corridor, designed for the separate care of the children. They have also arranged for the erection of a new dining hall, to supersede the old one, which will do away with the overcrowding that now exists in that department of the Home. Work on both structures is now in progress, and is expected to be completed this fall. For further 19 details upon this most important subject, I commend you to the report of those faithful, conscientious, and hard-working Breth- ren, the Trustees of the Masonic Hall and Asylum Fund. The German Masonic Temple Association. I have received a very interesting report from W. •. Charles Boss, the President of this Association. Our Brethren of the 38th Masonic District not only are zealous in Lodge work, but also find great delight in maintaining their Home at Tappan. This Association is conducted upon absolutely business prin- ciples, and in consequence the Brethren of the 28th District are more firmly establishing their Home as the years go by. W.'. Beothek Boss, in his report, alludes to the fact that all but three of the Lodges in that District are now members of the Association, and participating in the maintenance of the aged and infirm. None deserve greater praise than our German Brethren for the excellent work they have accomplished. We can heartily join in the hope expressed by the President of the Association, that "the 28th District will be able to continue its good work for generations to come. " Foreign Eblations. Our fraternal relations with other Grand Lodges have remained peaceful and undisturbed. Year after year the circle of Grand Lodges interchanging representatives is enlarged. This year we have the application of two Grand Lodges, viz., those of Chili and San Domingo, for recognition and the estab- lishment of fraternal relations by the interchange of repre- sentatives. These applications will be referred to our Committee on Jurisprudence for such recommendation as may to it appear proper. The Symbolic Grand Lodge of Hungary during the present month will dedicate its new Temple at Budapest and participate in the One Thousandth Anniversary (now in progress and to con- tinue until the month of October) of the Establishment of the Kingdom of Hungary. An invitation was received requesting us to appoint a Kepresentative to participate in that part of the 20 ceremonies more especially relating to the Craft. Our distin- guished Brother, the M. •- W. •. Fbedeeick A. Bttestham, Past Grand Master, being about to make an extensive tour of the Old World, I have had much pleasure in complying with the request of the Symbolic Grand Lodge of Hungary by designat- ing him to represent us upon the occasion referred to. Invitations were received from the Grand Master of Penn- sylvania and the Grand Master of New Jersey to be present at the Annual Communication of these Bodies, the former in Philadelphia on December 37th, and the latter in Trenton on January 28th. In company with the Grand Secretary I visited both places. In both jurisdictions we were most cordially received and shown every courtesy. I shall never cease to remember the expressions of genuine ftiendly sentiment con- veyed and the efforts of the OfBcers and Brethren of these juris- dictions to make our visit pleasant. I hope that in the future these fraternal visits may be repeated, as they cannot fail to be productive of great good to the Fraternity in general. Our hopes and aims are one, and our friendly relations should be firmly cemented. I take opportunity to here tender my warmest thanks and assurances of deepest appreciation to the Grand Master of Penn- sylvania, the Grand Master of New Jersey, and the Brethren of these jurisdictions for the hearty welcome, courteous treatment, and hospitable entertainment received at their hands. Zektjbbabel Lodge, No. 329. Shortly after the close of the last Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge, information came to me that Zerubbabel Lodge was admitting to membership persons of questionable reputation, that its communications were conducted in a man- ner inconsistent with the landmarks and laws of the Fraternity, and that many of its right-minded brethren, for these reasons, absented themselves from its communications. I communicated the information imparted to me to R. •. W. ■. Geoege W. White, District Deputy Grand Master of the 6th Masonic Dis- trict, in which said Lodge is located, with instructions to make a thorough investigation, and to prefer charges, if necessary, to n arrest the eril. I regret to say the investigation disclosed a con- dition of affairs so entirely foreign to the usages of Masonry, and so absolute a violation of the Constitution and Statutes, that it became necessary, in order to preserve the good name of our Craft, to act promptly. Accordingly, I arrested the warrant of the Lodge, and, on presentation of charges, appointed Commis- sioners to try the Master, Junior Warden, and three other Brethren, one of whom was the last candidate initiated. I need not enter into a detail of the trial further than to mention the fact that on the evening the last candidate was initiated the disreputable place kept by him was raided by the police. All against whom charges were preferred were found guilty, and promptly expelled from the rights and privileges of Masonry. While those in charge of the affairs of the Lodge were respon- sible for its wrongdoing, the fact remains that the great majority of its membership was composed of Brethren, good men and true, who, rather than be participants in scenes of wrangling and discord, remained away from tiie Lodge meetings. Eecogni zing the stigma placed upon these Brethren by the dis- grace of a suspended warrant and the expulsion of the Master and others, and not believing it either right or just that it should remain upon them, I directed the Grand Secretary to receive, from the Brethren of that Lodge whose reputation and standing could not be questioned, the amount of dues charged against them, and thereupon issue a certificate enabling them to affiliate with other Lodges. Fifty-four of these Brethren, to whom such certificates were issued, petitioned for a dispensa- tion to establish a new Lodge, which I granted, and fifty Brethren affiliated with other Lodges. I believe the duty of the Grand Lodge is to forfeit the war- rant of Zerubbabel Lodge, and thereby close a chapter in the history of the Craft which, let us trust, is never to be repeated. Suggestions. The recent Act of the Legislature consolidating the cities of New York and Brooklyn will bring within the corporate limits of the Greater New York, Lodges now located in the 1st and 2nh. Districts respectively. 23 By this Act, all the Lodges south of the cities of Tonkers and Mt. Veruon, except those in SufEolk County and two in Queens County, will be located in the new city. Thus, a few Lodges on the extreme easterly end of Long Island are entirely separated from that portion of the State through which in their case, under oar present law, preferment in the Grand Lodge can alone be obtained. It would seem only fair to so amend the law as to provide that the Counties of New York, Kings,i Queens, SufEolk, and Kichmond, shall constitute the Metropolitan Dis- trict ; and that when the Grand Master is chosen from the said District, the Deputy Grand Master shall be chosen from some other part of the State, and vice versa. In this connection, it is proper for me to mention that very many of our Brethren who have given the matter serious consideration believe the best interest of the Grand Lodge demands that the present method of electing the Deputy Grand Master, when a resident of New York or Brooklyn, from the floor, should be changed so as to provide for advancement by regular gradation, alternating the election of the Junior Grand Warden, under the same provisions as those governing the election, under the present law, of the Grand Master and Deputy Grand Master. The advent of the Greater New York will also necessitate the changing of the Masonic Districts within its territory, and should be made the occasion for rearranging all the Districts in the State. Many of our Districts are too large and should be subdivided, to the end that it may be made more convenient for the several District Deputy Grand Masters to annually visit each Lodge under their charge. The feasibility of this change needs no argument. The benefit to be derived by the change is readily admitted by all who have given the subject any thought. County lines should not be disturbed, but the Districts should be so arranged that counties contiguous to each other, and easily accessible by railroad communication, should be grouped in a reapportionment of the present Masonic Districts. COITCLTTSION. Before concluding this address, I deem it only just to speak a word to the Grand Lodge in commendation of the Trustees of 23 the Hall and Asylum Fund, the Superintendent of the Home, and the Grand Librarian,, w bo have discharged the duties com- mitted to their care with the utmost fidelity. Especially do I commend the work of the* Grand Secretary. Capable in the execution of the duties of his office, vigilant in guarding every interest of the Craft, he is a reliable guide to the Grand Master in dealing with the many intricate questions constantly submitted for adjudication. I assumed the ofBce of Grand Master with a just estimate of its high importance and its grave responsibilities. My time has been devoted to the Craft in an endeavor to advance its interests — with what degree of success you alone must judge. While we have prospered and are prospering, we must not forget how frail and fleeting are all our designs, and how important it is to care- fully consider our every step. It is not for the few alone, but for the many, to be on guard. The future prosperity and character of the Craft depend upon the maintenance of tem- perate, unselfish, upright lives, in and out of the Lodge, of all the Brethren. The foes from within are the most dangerous, and hence must be watched with sleepless eyes. Let us now proceed to the transaction of the business of this Annual Communication with a unanimity of purpose to use the many advantages we possess for the advancement of the cause of Freemasonry, and to uphold the high and commanding position we enjoy. May the Father of Light and Love and Truth, our Guide through the ages past and our Hope for the future, continue to bless and protect us, and lead us by the still waters of enduring peace. Cornell University Library HS537.N56 S84 Address of M (therefore symbol) W (there 3 1924 030 288 652 olin.anx T'/^ ^vi