m H,S M 400 _ L16 S12 045821 CORNELL UNIVERSITY LIBRARY THIS BOOK IS ONE OF A COLLECTION MADE BY BENNO LOEWY 1854-1919 AND BEQUEATHED TO CORNELL UNIVERSITY DUE Cornell University Library HS400.L16 S12 The history of Brother General Lafa^^^^ 3 1924 030 281 137 olin,anx Cornell University Library The original of this book is in the Cornell University Library. There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924030281137 BROTHER GEN. LAFAYETTE. ot 3Btotbet (3enetal Xafa^ette's jf tatetnal Connections wltb tbe 1R. M. 6rant) %o^qc, jf. & H. flD., of Pennsylvania COMPILED FKOM THE OB.IGINAL EECOEDS TOGETHEB WITH MEMENTOS AND RELICS IN THE LIBEARY AND MUSEUM JULIUS F. §ACHSE Librarian and Curator Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of Peimsylvama PUBUSHED Br THE CoMMITTEB Olf LlBEAET BT ReSOLTTTIOIT OP THE H. W. Gbastd Lodge, F. & A. M., op PEifiraYLVAiriA PHILADELPHIA 1916 At i^'j^o PRESS OF THE NEW ERA PRINTING COMPANY LANCASTER, PA CONTENTS Page Resolution of Grand Lodge, September 6, 1916 1-2 Introduction 4 The Washington Lafayette Apron 6 Lafayette, an Ancient Mason 8 Invited to attend Grand Lodge 9 Lafayette an Honorary Member 12 Address of Welcome 13 Lafayette's Reply 14 The Masonic Banquet 16 Report of Committee 17 Relics of Brother Lafayette 21 The only known Masonic Letter of Brother Lafayette 22 Resolutions of Grand Lodge upon notice of Lafayette's Death. 23 Eulogy by Brother George M. Dallas 24 Commemorative Exercises 26 Masonic Honors to Lafayette in the U. S 27 FuU length Portrait in Temple 28 Gband Lodge of Pennsylvania, F. & A. M. Quarterly Communication. Held at Philadelphia, September 6, A.D. 1916, A.L. 5916. **1 ROTHER Thomas H. Fenton, Senior Grand Deacon, read ex- tracts from 'The History of Brother General Lafayette's Fra- ternal Connections with the Right Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsyl- vania ' and offered the following preambles and reso- lutions, which were on motion adopted: "Whereas: This sixth day of September, 1916, marks the 159th Anniversary of the birth of Brother General Gilbert de Motier, Marquis de Lafayette, upon whom, at the Extra Grand Communication of October 2nd, 1824, was conferred all the rights, dig- nities and privileges of a member of this Grand Lodge, ' a body,' to use his own emphatic words, of which Brother Benjamin Franklin was the father 1 Brotber (5cneral Xafa^cttc's and Brother George Washington the associate; and upon which occasion, Brother James Harper, R.W.D.G.M., addressing Brother Lafayette, said, in part, 'In cordially reciprocating the attachment you have imiformly evinced for our liberties and for our happiness, we owe in addition the pride and sjTnpathy of Masonic Brotherhood. Your merito- rious life has indeed justly illustrated our principles, and those who now surround you, feel like Washing- ton and Warren and Franklin, you have won their most affectionate veneration by shedding honour on their beloved Fraternity. In America, as the com- panion and friend of the wisest and best of mankind, you will ever be regarded as one of the foimders of the greatest, purest and happiest of Republics, while in your native land (of France) it can not be for- gotten, that amidst the storms of pohtical revolution, and through every vicissitude of personal fortime, you have stood an inflexible example of consistency, moderation and firmness. These impressions, com- mon to the people of the U. S., but most dear to us, are now indelibly inscribed upon the records of his- tory, and will pass to our latest posterity with the sanction of national xmanimity. Receive then, most valued Brother, the most heartfelt benediction of our sacred Institution.' "And Wheeeas: — It should be remembered that 'the spirit of Lafayette is still abroad in America, stronger and more compelling than at any time in 3fraternal donncctiona her history. Invincible champion of liberty in his life, he holds us none the less in death. What he did for us in the 18th century we do not forget in the 20th Century.' "Therefore, he it Resolved: — "That at this Quarterly Communication, the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, F. & A. M., re- affirms with the most hearty accord and sincerity, those sentiments of profound regard and respect for the character of Brother Lafayette which were dis- played and recorded in his lifetime by Grand Lodge at the Extra Grand Communication of October second, 1824. "Resolved, That this Lafayette History be re- ferred to the Committee on Library with the recom- mendation that it be published in pamphlet form. " Extract from the Minutes. "Attest: JohnA.Pekry, "Grand Secretary. " September 11, 1916. " To THE Committee on LlBRAKY." ^^^ O original documentary evidence is known ij^r to be in existence which records the initia- ^^^ tion of General Lafayette in the Masonic Fraternity, nor in what Lodge or when this took place. It has always been a tradition in Masonic circles that General Lafayette was made a Mason in one of the Military Lodges at Morristown, New Jersey, where a Festal Lodge was held December 27, 1779, for which occasion the jewels and furniture and clothing of St. John's Lodge, No. 1, of Newark, New Jersey, was borrowed. The meeting proved a great success, sixty-eight brethren being present, one of whom was General Washington. There is another tradition that General Lafayette was made a Mason in a Mihtary Lodge, which met at Valley Forge dm'ing the winter of 1777-78, but no official records of such action have thus far been discovered. It was this uncertainty as to the Masonic standing of General Lafayette, which led to the resolution of September 6, 1824, in the Grand Lodge of Pennsyl- 4 FULL LENGTH PORTRAIT OF BRO. GEN. WASHINGTON, IN THE CORRIDOR HALL, MASONIC TEMPLE, PHILADELPHIA. ]fraternal Connections vania and the appointment of a Committee to satisfy themselves that General Lafayette was an Ancient York Mason. That the Committee was satisfied with their investigation is evinced hy their report and the subsequent action of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, which resulted in enrolhng Brother General Lafayette an Honorary Member of the R.W. Grand Lodge, F. & A. M. of Pennsylvania. Brother General Makie Jean Paul Joseph Roche Yves Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de La- fayette, revisited America in the year 1784, arriv- ing at New York August 5 of that year. After re- maining a short time in New York he hastened for- ward to visit General Washington at Mount Ver- non, reaching Philadelphia on August 10, where he was presented with an address by Brothers A. St. Clair, William Irving and General Anthony Wayne. It is not known whether General Lafayette visited any Masonic Lodges in Philadelphia during this visit, nor whether there was any commvmication with the Grand Lodge. One of the chief objects of this visit with General Washington was to present him with a beautiful white satin apron bearing the na- tional colors, red, white and blue and embroidered elaborately with Masonic emblems, the whole being the handiwork of Madam the Marquise de Lafayette. This apron was enclosed in a handsome rosewood box when presented to Washington. 5 Brotber General Xafa^ette's This apron was worn by Washington, September 18, 1793, when he laid the corner stone of the capitol at the Federal City (Washington, D. C), and is now in the Museum of the Grand Lodge, F. & A. M., of Pennsylvania. After the death of Washing- ton this Masonic rehc was presented by the legatees to the Washington Benevolent Society, who re- ceived it October 26, 1816. They in turn presented it July 3, 1829, to the Right Worshipful Grand Lodge, F. & A. M. of Pennsylvania, and bears the following inscription: " To the " Washington Benevolent Society. " The Legatees of Gen. Washington, impressed with the most profound Senti/ments of respect for the Institution which they have the honor to address, beg leave to present to them /the enclosed relic of the revered & lamented " Father of His Country." They are persuaded that the Apron, /which was once possessed by the man, whom the Philadelphians always delighted to honor, will be con/sidered most precious to the Society distinguished by his name, and by the benevolent, and grateful feel/ings to which it owes its foundations. That this perishable memento of a Hero whose Fame /is "more diu-able than Brass" may confer as much pleasure upon 6 fraternal Connections those to whom it is presented, as is / experienced by the Donors. " October 26"" 1816, " Is the sincere wish of the " Legatees." Forty years later Brother Lafayette revisited the United States, landing at New York as the nation's guest, August 15, 1824. He was accompanied by his son George Washington Lafayette, and M. La Vasseur, his secretary, both members of the fra- ternity. Tuesday September 29, the party reached Philadelphia. At the Grand Quarterly Communication of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania held September 6, 1824, just ninety-two years ago, the following mo- tion was made, seconded, and adopted: "Resolved, that a Committee consisting of the Grand Officers and Past Grand Masters be ap- pointed to enquire whether General La Fayette be an Ancient York Master Mason, and if he be, to adopt such measures, as in their opinion will best evince the affection and gratitude of his Masonic Brethren, to this friend and benefactor of the United States." At an adjourned Quarterly Grand Commimica- tion held Monday, September 26, 1824, the com- mittee made the following report: "The Committee appointed on the 6 Septr. to enquire whether Gen'. La Fayette be an Antient 7 Brotber General Xafagette's York Mason and presented the following Report and Resolution which as amended were severally adopted: — " The Committee appointed by the Grand Lodge to ascertain and Report whether General La Fayette be an Antient York Mason, and if so to report such measures it would be proper for the Grand Lodge to adopt in relation to this Brother, respectfully Report, " That they have been led to believe that this dis- tinguished man, for whose attachment and services to this Coimtry our fellow Citizens have evinced the warmest feelings of affection and gratitude has long been an Antient York Master Mason and has hon- ored the institution by his patronage and added to its usefulness and respectability by a devoted atten- tion to its interests. When all classes are zealous to display their good feelings upon his arrival amongst us, it would seem to your Committee that in a City where the Masonic institutions deservedly stand high, some testimony of respect is due from them to so worthy a brother. " They have been anxious to avoid unnecessary ostentation and expense, but at the same time to treat this guest as becomes the Institution, and his character. " The Committee recommend for adoption the fol- lowing Resolutions: — 8 jfraternal Connections "Resolved^ that a Committee of seven be ap- pointed whose duty it shall be as soon as they have received Masonic information that Gen, La Fayette is an Antient York Master Mason, to invite him to partake with his Masonic Brethren of a Dinner to be prepared for the occasion. "Resolved, that the same Committee shall be authorized to procure the Dinner, receive Subscrip- tions and make all necessary arrangements for the same at the price of five dollars for each subscriber. "Resolved, that the use of the Grand Saloon shall be appropriated on the evening on which the Dinner is to take place to the subscribers to the same. "Resolved, that the Grand Lodge Room shall also be appropriated to the use of the subscribers on that day, with the consent of the Lodge whose day of meeting it may be and that an address suitable to the occasion be delivered. "James Harper, B. Newcomb, Thos. Kitteea, J. K. Kane^ Committee." S. Badger, J. Randall, TheR.W.D.G.M. was pleased to appoint Brothers J. Randall, J. S. Lewis, J. M. Pettit, D. E. Wil- son, Robt. Toland, D. F. Gordon and Jas. Mc- Alpin on said committee. On motion made and seconded, "Resolved, that the Grand Secretary transmit a copy of the Report and Resolutions to the R.W. Brotber General Xafa?ette'6 Grand Master (Bro. John B. Gibson being absent from the City on official Duties as Judge of the Supreme Court), and respectfully invite his attend- ance in the City on the day when the Dinner to Gen. La Fayette shall take place." Saturday, October 2, 1824, Brother Lafayette visited the navy yard, then on the Delaware River at the foot of Federal Street, attended by the governor and citizens of the first distinction, escorted by the United States Marines, a regiment of militia, sev- eral independent companies, and a long civic pro- cession. After leaving the Philadelphia navy yard in the afternoon. Brother Lafayette was escorted by a committee of the Grand Lodge from his Lodgings at the house of Mrs. Nicholas Biddle, to the Masonic Hall on Chestnut Street, north side between Seventh and Eighth Streets, where he attended an Extra Grand Commxmication of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, as stated in the minutes, viz.: "Philadelphia, Saturday, 2 Oct., A.D. 1824, A.L. 5824. "Extra Gkand Communication. "This being the day appointed for a Dinner to our Distinguished Brother General La Fayette, in pursuance of a Resolution of the Grand Lodge adopted on the 20 September ulto., about three hundred of the Craft, including a large proportion 10 fraternal Connecttons of the resident members of the Grand Lodge, as- sembled in the Hall at an early horn* in the after- noon. "The R.W- Deputy Grand Master and Grand Officers and members, being seated in the Grand Lodge Room, the door was tyled, the Grand Lodge opened in form at four o'clock P. M. "Present: — "Bro, James Harper, R.W. Deputy G.M., In the Chair. "Bro. Thomas Kittera, R.W. Senior G. Warden. "Bro. Sam". Badger, R.W. Jimior Warden. " Bro. John K. Kane, Acting Grand Secretary. "Bro. Joseph S. Lewis, Grand Treasurer. " Sam'. A. Thomas, Dep'^. Acting Grand Sec'^. " Bro. Randall Hutchinson, Senior Grand Deacon. "Bro. George C. Potts, Grand Chaplain. "Bro. Jas. McAlpin, Grand Sword Bearer. " Bro. WiUiam Wray, Grand Steward. "Bro. S. F. Bradford, R.W. Past Grand Master. " Bro. Walter Kerr, R.W. Past Grand Master. "Bro. Bayse Newcomb, R.W- Past Grand Mas- ter. " Bro. Josiah Randall, R.W. Past Grand Master." Representatives and Past Masters from nearly all of the Lodges in the City and County of Phila- delphia, and a large number of visiting brethren among were the following: by special invitation — 11 Brother (5cneral Xafa^ette's Brothers George Washington La Fayette; M. La Vasseur and Colonel Victor Dupont, of Delaware, former aid to Brother La Fayette. Bro. Jones, P.G.M., Grand Lodge of Georgia. " E. Hicks, R.W. Grand Secy. G*. Lodge N. York. " Geo. B. Porter, Lodge No. 43. " M. C. Rogers, " " " " Charles Stewart, Bro. Wm. Gamble, " I. M. Gamble, " T. de la Pomerage. On motion made and seconded, the following reso- lution was unanimously adopted: " The Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania glorying in the honour this conferred on her by the visit of Brother Gilbert Motier de la Fayette, and anxious to enrol among her members an individual so much distinguished by aU the Virtues which enoble the Masonic Character, has Resolved, that all the rights, dignities and privileges of a member of this Grand Lodge be, and the same are hereby conferred on Bro. Gilbert Motier de la Fayette." A committee was appointed to wait upon La Fayette at his lodgings and conduct him to the Hall. Here he was met at the door by the Grand Marshal and Grand Sword Bearer and received into the Grand Lodge with the highest honours. The R.W. Dep^ Grand Master then rose and ad- dressed Bro. la Fayette as follows: 12 fraternal (Lonnectione "Bro. La Fayette. "The Freemasons of Pennsylvania welcome you to their home with sincere and universal pleasure. "Warmly participating in the sentiments which have every where spontaneously burst from our fel- low citizens in the hvely gratitude for the services you have rendered our Country, in admiration of your high and various virtues, and in cordially recip- rocating the attachment you have uniformly evinced for ovu" liberties and for our happiness, we owe in addition the pride and sympathy of Masonic Broth- erhood. Your meritorious life has, indeed, justly illustrated our principles; and those who now sur- round you, feel that like Washington, and Warren and Frankhn, you have won their most affectionate veneration, by shedding honour on their beloved fra- ternity. Always contending General, in the great cause of human rights, your success has equalled the disinterestedness and perseverance of your devotion. In America, as the companion and friend of the wisest and best of mankind, you will ever be re- garded as one of the founders of the greatest, purest and happiest of republics ; while, in your native land it cannot be forgotten, that amidst the storms of political revolution, and through every vicissitude of personal fortime, you have stood an inflexible ex- ample of consistency, moderation and firmness. These impressions common to the people of the 13 Brotber General Xafa^ette's United States, but most dear to us, are now indelibly inscribed upon the records of history and will pass to our latest posterity with the sanction of national unanimity. Receive then most valued Brother, the most heartfelt benedictions of om* sacred institution; receive the homage of free and upright men, who love you as an early benefactor and whose affection must remain as secure as your own virtues and as permanent as your own glory. " I have also the honour of presenting you with a Resolution passed unanimously by the Grand Lodge diu-ing its present session constituting you one of its members. I hope you will accept this as an addi- tional evidence of the high sense they entertain of your virtues and of the services you have rendered to mankind in general and to Masonry in par- ticular." "To which Bro. La Fayette made the following reply: "Right Worshipful Grand Master and Brethren: — " I have often thought that we owe as much to our enemies as to our friends, and if this observation is true, it is most true, when applied to us as Masons. It is to the enmity and the persecutions of a Francis the 2* and Ferinand the 7th that the Masons of Europe in Modern times have been indebted for op- portunities of proving through much suffering and peril, that om- principles are pure, and that their 14 3fraternal Connections devotion to them is unchangeable. The Lodges of Spain in particular have been the victims of Royal fears but though dispersed, their members still are Masons, and though much oppressed, their light has not been extinguished. "You R.W. Sir, and Brethren, reposing imder the cover of your own peaceful institutions, hear of these things only by the report of those who come to admire your prosperity and to share by your hos- pitahty, the fruit of your labours. "I thank you for the honour you have just con- ferred on me, and assure you that I shall never for- get this mark of yoiu- kind distinction, by which I am made the member of a body of which Franklin was the father and Washington the associate." The Brethren were now severally presented to Bro. La Fayette, when Grand Lodge closed in har- mony at half past five o'clock. Masonic Dinner. A sumptuous banquet prepared by Bro. Daniel Rubicam being ready in the grand saloon and ad- joining banqueting room, the brethren entered in the following order: Sojourning Brethren, Grand Tyler, Grand Pursuivant, Grand Stewards, 15 Brotber General Xafa^ette's Grand Deacons, Grand Chaplain, Grand Secretary, Grand Treasurer, Grand Wardens, Invited Guests, Brother La Fayette, supported by the R.W- Acting G.M. and D.G.M.P.T. The decorations of the room were prepared under the direction of Bro. Haviland, to whose refined taste and superior skill the fraternity were under great obhgation; the beautiful saloon and banquet- ing room never appeared to so great an advantage. The brethren sat down at six o'clock in the after- noon; feelings of hilarity, mirth and Masonic broth- erhood prevailed at the festive board. After the removal of the cloth a number of excellent toasts were given, followed by appropriate music from the Marine Band attached to the navy yard, for whose services the fraternity were indebted to the polite- ness of Bro. I. M. Gamble, commanding the marine corps on this station. The company adjourned at a proper hour, much gratified with the events of the day. The session of the Grand Lodge was held in the Grand Lodge Room on the second floor; the dinner was given in the large room or salon on the east side of the lower floor; this room was not used for Ma- sonic purposes, but was rented out for social fimc- 16 jfraternal Connections tions and exhibition purposes. Considerable diffi- culty was experienced by the committee to get the use of this room for the banquet, as appears from the final report of the committee presented to the Grand Lodge at the Grand Quarterly Commimica- tion held Monday, March 5, 1827, viz. : "The following report was received from the Committee appointed on the claim of William Christie for fiirniture supplied to the Committee of arrangement for the dinner to Bro. Genl. La Fayette in 1824, and on all similar demands. " On motion and seconded, the same was adopted. "To THE Grand Lodge of Penna. " The Comm*. to which was referred the accounts of William Christie and others, against the Com- mittee of arrangements appointed by the Grand Lodge on the occasion of General La Fayette's visit. " Report, "That it appears to the Committee that the fol- lowing bills contracted by the Committee of arrange- ments remain unpaid, viz.: — "WiUiam Christie for Upholstery $151.88 Clark, for Carpentry 155,34 Myers and Jones, for Painting 40.00 Russell, Oil 4.87 Porterage and Advertising 2.86 Total $354.94 That there remains in the hands of said Committee an un- expended balance of 88.85 Leaving a deficit of monies to amot of $266.09 17 Brotbcr General Xafa^ctte's which deficit this committee is of opinion is justly and equitably chargeable upon the Grand Lodge." To elucidate the opinion of the committee, it is proper to recur to some of the circiunstances which preceded, as well as those which attended the recep- tion of Genl. La Fayette. As soon as it was under- stood that this illustrious Mason intended to visit the Grand Lodge a committee was directed to de- vise measures worthy of the occasion and among the resolutions reported by them was one for the ar- rangement of a festival of welcome. It was pro- posed that the task of carrying this part of the ar- rangement into effect should be confided to a special committee and that the members of the fraternity should be generally invited; they further proposed that the price of tickets should be fixed at seven dollars. The Grand Lodge approved of the plan which its committee submitted, but probably not aware of the increased expenses attendant on all entertainments which were given at that season of general festivity, it reduced the price of tickets to the sum of five dollars, and in part compensation for this reduction, it determined that the grand saloon should be appropriated to the purposes of the festival. It was not until the special committee, which was afterwards appointed, had made the more expensive part of their arrangements, that it was discovered 18 Ifraternal Connections that the Grand Lodge had no right to the saloon without the consent of the tenant in possession. To obtain that consent it was necessary to pay fifty dol- lars to dislodge an Italian artist from the banquet- ing room, and a further sum of $67.75 to procure another room for a concert which had been an- nounced for the evening at the saloon. The sum of $117.75 was thus required to procure accommoda- tios which the Grand Lodge had stipulated it would furnish gratuitously. The obligation of the Grand Lodge to reimburse this sum, if necessary, has not been at any time questioned and needs no remarks. The great number of the brethren who came for- ward as subscribers, gratifying as the fact was to the committee, had the effect of increasing dispropor- tionately the expenses of the banquet. The fm-ni- ture and decorations belonging to the Grand Lodge were found altogether insufficient for the suite of apartments which it became necessary to open. New fiu-niture and additional decorations were purchased by the committee and these have since been sold by the Grand Lodge and the proceeds carried into its treasury, or they still remain in its possession. The committee of arrangements, while mindful that it was their duty to welcome their patriarchal guest in a style which might become the Lodge of which "Franklin was the foxmder and Washington a member," yet anxiously avoided every application 19 Brotber General Xafa)?ctte'0 of the sinking fund to purposes not strictly within its specified objects. All their proceedings were characterized by as much economy as was consistent with the occasion. All the expenses of making preliminary arrange- ments were borne by themselves individually and when the moneys which they had received were f oimd to be inadequate, they at once, with the aid of a few friends, applied a considerable sum of their own to meet the deficiency. The state of their accoimts, strictly audited, stands thus: " They received from subscribers in all $1,358. and appropriated from the private funds exclusive of the amt. expended in preliniinaiy arrangements 80. $1,438.50 They paid bill amounting to $1,349.65 They yet owe 354.94 1,704.59 Balance due from committee $ 366.09 " On a full view of the circumstances which have occasioned this balance against the committee of arrangements, first, that no discretion was permitted them in fixing the terms of subscription, the grand lodge itself having defined the price on views of the subject which the result has proved to be incorrect; second, that a large portion of the balance was ap- plied to procure rooms, which the grand lodge, had from an erroneous idea of its rights, declared should be given without cost; third, that the grand lodge has received a full equivalent for the residue in the 20 jfraternal Connections property which it has sold or still retains, and fourth, that the doings of the committee were wisely and satisfactorily ordered and that the deficiency has been entirely occasioned by causes over which they had no possible controul, the committee to which the accounts were referred have agreed to present the following resolution. "Resolved, that the R.W.G.M. be requested to draw his order on the grand treasurer for the svmi of $266.09 in favour of Br. James McAlpin, treasurer of the La Fayette Comm*. of arrangements. "All of which is respectfully submitted. "Philad., 5th, March, 1827." "(signed.) "Saml. F. Bkadford, John K. Kane, Saml. Badger, Same. H. Thomas." Among other relics of Brother Lafayette, we have in our Archives the " Golden Book of The Su- preme Council for the Western Hemisphere." This contains a copy of the patent conferring the 33d degree upon Brother Lafayette by this Supreme Coimcil; it also contains the following note written and signed by Brother Lafayette, May 10, 1834, just ten days before his death, viz.: (Translation.) "It is the extreme indulgence of the Supreme Council of the United States, that elevated to the 21 Brotber (5eneral Xafa^ette's 33d degree in spite of the superiority in knowledge and in services of many of my brothers, I owe to-day the favors, of which I am not worthy, with which the great Council of the Occidental Hemisphere has deigned to overwhelm me, I accept them with a deep gratitude and will seek to merit them by my zeal. "May our ancient institution propagate every- where the Liberty, the Equahty, the Philanthrophy, and contribute to the great movement of social civili- zation which ought to emancipate the two Hemi- spheres. "(signed) Lafayette." Brother Lafayette died in Paris May 20, 1834. At an Extra Grand Communication of the Grand Lodge held Tuesday, June 24, 1834, his decease was announced to the Grand Lodge whereupon: "On Motion made and seconded. The foUowing Preamble and Resolutions were tmanimously adopted : "Whereas, the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania have learned with the deepest emotions of sorrow, the decease of their illustrious Brother and Member, General Lafayette 'an individual so much distin- guished by all the virtues which ennoble the masonic character,' and Whekeas the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania feel it a mournful duty to pay the last tribute of their respect to the memory of a Brother, the last Major General of the Revolu- 22 Ifraternal Connections H H W iz; O >< n Iz; pj Pi o M iz; o m ;^ o Jz; iz; O » H s g H § n o 23 Brotber ©eneral Xafai^ette's tionary Army, the disciple of Washington, the com- panion of Franklin, and the steadfast friend of civil and religious hberty. "Therefore Resolved^ That the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania deeply deplore the loss of their revered and beloved Brother and Member, General La- fayette, whose labours in the cause of American In- dependence and of rational liberty and ardent devo- tion to the Fraternity, have endeared his memory to every Member of this venerable order. " Besolvedj That the Grand Lodge of Pennsyl- vania sympathize most sincerely with the amiable family of their deceased Brother, in the irreparable bereavement they have sustained, in the death of their excellent father. "Resolved, That as an humble testimonial of our respect for the memory of our deceased Brother, the Jewels, Hangings, and other Furniture of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, be placed in mourning for the space of twelve months. "Resolved, That a correct Portrait of our deceased brother be procured, and placed in a conspicuous part of the Grand Lodge Room. "Resolved, That Brothers George M. Dallas, Thomas Kittera, Robert Toland, Cornelius Steven- son, and John M. Read, be a Committee to commu- nicate the foregoing Resolutions to the ^family of Brother General Lafayette. 24 FULL LENGTH PORTRAIT OF BRO. GEN. LAFAYETTE IN THE CORRIDOR HALL, MASONIC TEMPLE, PHILADELPHIA. fraternal Connections "Resolved, That the foregoing Preamble and Resolutions be published in the public journals of the day." The Grand Lodge having closed, the Fraternity proceeded to the saloon where they were gratified by hearing a very beautiful and instructive Masonic address from Bro. George M. Dallas, R.W. Dep. Grand Master. The Grand Lodge was again opened, when upon motion made and seconded it was unanimously re- solved : "That the thanks of this Grand Lodge be pre- sented to Bro. Dallas for his truly masonic and admirable address delivered this day and that he be requested to furnish a copy of it for publication." The following is an extract from the very elo- quent address dehvered before the Fraternity, on this day, by Brother George M. Dallas, R.W. Deputy Grand Master. " I would close here, did I not feel that the com- memorative pvirpose of the day may for a moment, be with propriety interrupted by a reference to the recent departure of om* illustrious friend and brother, Gilbert Motier De Lafayette. This truly good and eminently great man died suddenly, at the Capital of his European Country, and in the bosom of his family, on the morning of the 20th of May last, and in the seventy-seventh year of his age. 25 Brotber General Xata^ctte's "It will be recollected by some whom I address, that on the 2d of October, 1824, General Lafayette, then the Guest of a Nation to whose service he had dedicated his early enthusiasm, fortune and blood, was, in that chamber, invested with all the rights, dignities and privileges of a member of this Grand Lodge ' a body,' to use his own emphatic words, ' of which Franklin was the father and Washington the associate.' "Both hemispheres were ahke the theatre of the virtues and exploits of this exalted mason. In both he passed, unscathed in honour, through the ordeal of sanguinary revolution, in both he shone the firm, faithful and fearless champion of human liberties and rights, in both he riveted himself, by the loftiest and the gentlest quahties, in universal respect and affection, and in both his death is now sincerely mom-ned as a common calamity. In the memory, as in the life of their joint citizen and soldier, America and France have a lasting bond of sympathy and union. In this respect, as the moral link to connect two distant and powerful nations in mutual good will, his position on the records of immortality is without parallel. "While we join in the sad and solemn rites every where performing by our countrymen, in melancholy attestation of their deep veneration and im.dying gratitude for an early and indefatigable pubhc bene- 26 yratcrnal Connections factor, we cannot but own one added pang, though accompanied by one peculiar pride as kindhng mem- ory suggests that he also was a Mason." On July 21, 1834, commemorative exercises were held in Zion Lutheran Church, southeast corner of Fourth and Cherry Streets, in which the Grand Lodge participated. Other mementos of Brother Lafayette in the Mu- seimi of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, beside the Washington Apron, are the two rehcs of Brother Lafayette's visit to Philadelphia in 1824. 1. A piece of candle and holder used to illuminate one of the window panes of Independence Hall dur- ing the procession, September 28, 1824. 2. A memorial cotton handkerchief upon which is printed his portrait, scene of his arrival at New York on the ship Cadmus, and the memorial arch erected in front of Independence Hall, through which General Lafayette and the procession passed at his reception, September 28, 1824. 3. A large full-length oil portrait of Brother Gen- eral Lafayette in the upper corridor. 4. A study in oil said to be from life in hbrary. 5. Copy of Houdan's marble bust of Brother Gen- eral Lafayette in the Library. 6. Two silk badges worn at the fimeral procession and commemorative service of Zion Lutheran Church July 21, 1838. 27 Brotber ©eneral Xafagctte'e 7. Two engraved French portraits in Washington alcove in museum. 8. A number of Lafayette medals in the museum collection. 9. A Lafayette Silver Dollar coined by the United States in the year 1900. 10. Four Masonic Lodges in Pennsylvania are named after this distinguished brother, viz.: No. 71, Philadelphia, No. 194, Selinsgrove, No. 199, Lock Haven, No. 652, Carnegie. In conclusion to illustrate how the memory of Brother Lafayette is honored in both Masonic and civil hfe in the United States, as a matter of fact, there are no less than thirty Masonic Lodges named after Brother Lafayette in twenty-six states in the Union. In the United States, there are fourteen villages, eleven towns, five counties, one parish and one city which bear the name of our honored brother, the Marquis General Lafayette. As above stated, it was resolved at the Extra Grand Communication held June 24, 1834, that a correct portrait of Brother Lafayette should be pro- cured and placed in a conspicuous part of the lodge room. It appears that after this resolution was adopted, 28 fraternal Connections the sum of eighty dollars ($80) was collected towards obtaining this portrait. At the Annual Grand Communication held Mon- day, December 28, 1835, when Washington Hall in South Third Street above Spruce Street was dedi- cated and consecrated to Masonic uses, on motion of Brother F. Cooper and seconded, it was resolved that a committee of five be appointed to receive the amovmt collected Jime 24, 1834, with further author- ity to solicit donations from Lodges and members within this Masonic jurisdiction, and as soon as a sufficient sum shall have been collected, to have a likeness of Lafayette painted by an eminent artist, and to have the same put up in a conspicuous place in the Grand Lodge Room. The R.W. Grand Master was pleased to appoint on said committee Bros. F. Cooper, Geo. Fox, W. Mayweg, S. Wonder ly and A. Quniton. Nothing appeared to have been done in this mat- ter until four months later, when the following amendment was offered at an adjourned Extra Grand Lodge held Aprtl 18, 1836. "On motion of Bro. Geo. Fox and seconded, the Resolution adopted on the 28th December last, rela- tive to a Painting of Bro. Lafayette was reconsid- ered and the following offered as an Amendment thereof and adopted, viz. : — " Besolvedj that the Committee appointed on the 29 Brotber General Xafa^jette's 28th Dec'. 1835, be authorized to solicit donations from lodges and members within the jurisdiction and when a sufficient sum shall have been Collected to procure a fuU length painting of Benjamin Frank- lin, and a portrait of Lafayette, and have said paint- ings placed in a conspicuous situation in the Grand Lodge Room." After this the matter slumbered for six years, when it was revived at the Quarterly Grand Com- munication held Monday, March 7, 1842, by the following minute: " On motion duly made and seconded, the Grand Secretary was directed to endeavovu" to procure in- formation respecting collections made for Likeness of Benj" Franklin and Lafayette and report at next quarterly Communication." No action was taken in reference to the portrait for the next six years, when the matter was again brought to the notice of the Grand Lodge at the Grand Quarterly Communication held Monday, March 6, 1848, by a communication on the subject from Phoenix Lodge, No. 130, viz.: " The following was received and referred to Past Grand Masters Bros. Newcomb, Barger and Page. 30 FULL LENGTH PORTRAIT OF BRO. BENJAMIN FRANKLIN, IN THE CORRIDOR HALL, MASONIC TEMPLE, PHILADELPHIA. Ifraternal (tonnecttons Phil., Feby. 21, 1848. To Wm. H. Adams, Rt. W.G. Secy of G. L. of Pa. Dr. Sir 4 Bro. "The following Resolution was on motion & seconded unanimously Adopted at a meeting of Phoenix Lodge No. 130, held at Masonic Hall South 3rd St., Wednesday evening, February 16th, A. L. 5848. " Resolved, That the representatives of this Lodge be directed to call the attention of the Grand Lodge to the fact that there has been for a number of Years in the hands of Past Grand Master Bro. Jno. M. Read, a sum of money, raised by Subscription for the purpose of prociu-ing a portrait of Bros. Frank- lin & Lafayette, that the said Portrait has never been purchased and request the Grand Lodge to appoint a Committee to examine into the matter and ask P.G. Master Jno. M. Read to accoimt for the same. " Extract from the Minutes. "Signed. Wm. S. Schxjltz, "Secy. Lodge No. 130." This was referred to Past Grand Masters Bro. Newcomb, Barger and Page, who at the Quarterly Commimication September 4, 1848, made the fol- lowing report, which was received and the resolution adopted, viz.: 31 Brotber General Xafai?ette's " To THE R.W. Geand Lodge of Penna. "The Committee appointed in relation to the money subscribed and paid for the purpose of pro- cm-ing a portrait of Lafayette and Franklin. "Respectfully report, That a Simi of money for that purpose subscribed was paid into the hands of Bro. John M. Read who cannot at present find the subscription paper containing the precise amount, but believes it to be about Eighty Dollars which Sum he is ready to pay over as the Grand Lodge may direct and when the amt. can be ascertained to cor- rect the same. " Your Committee respectfully offer the following Resolution. Resolved, that the Grand Treasiu-er call upon Bro. Read & receive from him the above mentioned Sum of Eighty Dollars. "Phil., Sept. 4, 1848. " Signed. B. Newcomb^ Wm. Bakger, Jas. Page, Committee. At the Grand Quarterly Communication held March 5, 1849, the following was offered by Brother John Thomson, R.W.G. Treasurer, and adopted viz.: "Whereas^ there is in the hands of the Grand Treai^urer the sum of Eighty dollars contributed some years since by certain members of the Grand 32 fraternal Connectiong Lodge for the purpose of a likeness of Bro. La Fayette and as said sum is insufficient to accomplish the object intended therefore Resolved, That the Grand Treasurer be instructed to add from the funds of the Grand Lodge $20 to the $80 contributed and with the sum purchase one share Masonic loan for the purpose of furthering the object intended." It appears that the portrait of Lafayette which was formerly in the Grand Lodge room and now in the second story corridor of the New Temple was not procured until after the New Chestnut Street Hall was dedicated in 1855. No record has been found as to who the artist was or what was the amount paid for same. 33 \