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HISTORY
American Odd Fellowship
THE FIRST DECADE.
JAMES L RIDGELY,
H ISTOR I OGRAPH ER .
SIXTH THOUSAND.
BALTIMORE, MD,:
BV JAMES L. KIDCELV, r.V AUTHORITV ()K THE GRAND LODGK Of THK UNITKIl STATKS I 1878
i-r^^s''
\
. J
Entered according to Act of Conj^ress, in tlie year One Thousand Kl.udit
Hundred and Sevonty-eight, by
^ - 1^* JAMES L. lUDGELY,
in the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington.
All rights reserved.
ELE(Tl{OTYPEI» DY ritlNTKr> HY
JOHN RYAN & CO.. JOHN L. MIKPHY.
Baltimore. Trouton.N.J.
TO THE
Right Worthy Grand Lodge of the United States,
OF THE
INDEPENDENT ORDER OF ODD FELLOWS.
TO WHICH, MORE THAN TO ANY OTHER HUMAN AGENCY, MANKIND OWES THE
GRANDEST SYSTEM OF SECULAR AFFILIATED BENEVOLENCE OF ANY AGE,
THIS WORK IS AFFECTIONATELY DEDICATED.
HONOR, PERPETUITY AND BLESSINGS
are forever due to its grand and subordinate organizations, for zeal and devotion in the cause; but to its paternal govern- ment and wise and judicious administration, is the present wondrous development to be chiefly
ascribed.
Great is the leader of a forlorn hope to victory ; great the pilot who steers his precious freight safely through the storm and tempest; but greater the genius that evokes from the rough marble, the master- PIECE OF ART AND BEAUTY — THE DiVINE ImaGE IN HUMANITY.
PREFACE
This book goes forth as the history of the first decade of American Odd Fellowship, by James L. Ridgely, Grand Corres- ponding and Recording Secretary, and also Historiographer of the Grand Lodge of the United States, I. O. O. F. As its prep- aration has been connected with several other names as State Historiographers, from whom some material has been derived, the extent of such aid will be fully acknowledged. The particu- lar connection of Hon. Henry F. Garey with the publication, deserves special mention, which is now given.
When this history was first proposed, such was the condition of my health, that in view of contingencies which were obvious, I sought the aid of competent brothers to assist me in the task. My first application was to Bro. Rev. E. H. Chapin of New York, P. G. M.; Reps. Morse of California, P. G. M.; Harmon of California, P. G. M., and Garey of Maryland, P. G. M. These all, at that time, declined the invitation, and I remained alone in the enterprise. Afterwards, Bro. Garey was induced to join me, and has been identified with me in every stage of the book's progress, until its conclusion. Our labor has been joint ; the original text has undergone a revision, in which each has given his personal consideration to the topics discussed. In one particular I have taken no counsel and stand alone. The comments on the men, the policy and the principles of the Order, express my individual sentiments long held on those subjects, and in that sense are entirely my own. My part has been to collect and suggest from the mass of material at hand, and to designate its use ; to correct false history, to bring together new facte, to present the traits and labors of the known historic men of the Order, and to see that the honors should be appropriately awarded. Occasionally, also, in the rendition of legislative texts, to furnish the proper key to the enactments and proceedings, which
Vi PREFACE.
otherwise were hidden in a dry and barren record. My colleague is the Editor ; I regard such appellation as his appropriate title. He has also supervised the style and language of the whole man- uscript, including my own, although much has been inserted lit- erally as it was supplied by my hand. When it is known that Judge Garey has fully performed his duties in the Court of Common Pleas of Baltimore City, during the whole period of his connection with this work, it will be acknowledged that he has acquitted himself to the history with fidelity.
Whatever defects or omissions may exist in the volume, will find an ample excuse in the circumstances under which it was written. The whole book so fully expresses my personal views on all the subjects treated, that I accept its authorship without reserve, and for all its contents assume the sole responsibility. It was to me the work was committed. It contains my cherished opinions of the Order and its principles. So far as frail humanity would permit, it is a truthful and complete statement of the great matters of which it treats. It is the depository of my hopes and fears, and of my love for the institution with which my life has been identified since manhood, and my name associated for nearly half a century. I have sought to portray to the brethren the transactions and the men of the first decade, with whom I have been in part contemporaneous, with strict impartiality. No reliable source of information from which light could be thrown upon that eventful period has escaped my research. The manu- scripts of Bro. Kennedy, P. G. S., have been placed at my disposal. These I have found invaluable as the proper oracles of the times. I have used them largely as the public property, giving special credit only where special quotations have been made from them.
The researches of John W. Stokes and William Ellison, re- spectively, in Pennsylvania and Massachusetts, have enabled me to present interesting chapters on those States. In so doing I have closely followed them so far as the plan of the work per- mitted. Past Grand Sire Ellison's production was very satisfac- tory, and I hereby tender my sincere thanks to the Board of Grand Oflicers of the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts for the generous do- nation of a copy free of expense. The work of Grand Sire Stokes is of great value, and is exhaustive of the subject. As far as was
PREFACE. Vii
possible bis plan of treatment has been adopted. That veteran Odd Fellow has been identified with the leaders in the Order for thirty- five years, having entered the Grand Lodge of the United States in 1843. His labors include a full review of the Patriarchal Brancii, which few if any were equally competent to furnish. Its history in Pennsylvania is full of interest. But as that branch of the Order grew out of the degrees called Patriarchal, as the higher penetralia of Odd Fellowship, we have been forced to confine its history to the chapter on that subject. His contribution is deserving of special mention, and might well be published as a separate volume, which would be very attractive in that great jurisdiction.
The chapter on New York would have been unsatisfactory but for the valuable assistance of P. G. Rep. John Medole, of that jurisdiction, and I am greatly indebted to P. G. Sire William "W. Moore of the District of Columbia, not only for in- formation about that locality, but for important matter in the chapter on the degrees.
The illustrations have been obtained at great labor and expense, and but for the aid of zealous friends would be in- complete. As it is, we regret the absence of several which it was not possible for us to obtain. We gladly return our acknowledg- ments to Bros. Porter and Ford of Massachusetts, G. Sire Stokes of Pennsylvania, Bro. Medole of New York, Bro. Parker of New Jersey, Bro. Havenner of the District of Columbia, and Bro. McKelvey of West Virginia, for their kind attentions in this de- partment of the work. The design for the beautiful emblematic device on the cover of the book, was prepared about a year ago by our lamented Brother Fred. D. Stuart, P. G. Sire, who mani- fested a great interest in this publication. The work has gone to press under the supervision of Bro. Theodore A. Boss, Assis- tant Grand Secretary, whose services have greatly lightened the labors of the author and editor.
And now, my brethren, having assigned to all concerned proper credit in the production of this work, my task is about to close. One word more and I have done. My days of prac- tical usefulness are passing away; I cannot much longer mingle in the councils of the Order. Certainly I can no longer write and speak for the institution as in days gone by. This doubtless is my last effort to serve Odd Fellowship. It is my
Vlll PREFACE.
last tribute to that great and good cause — ray farewell to that loving band of brothers throughout the world, who have so warmly greeted me ever since they learned to honor and revere the Order. In the hope that it may do good service for Human- ity and Fraternity, I commit it to the Brotherhood.
JAMES L. RIDGELY.
CONTENTS.
CHAPTER I.
PAOK
Ihtroduction 1
The Order founded on principles. — Its name. — Not a borrower. — Oppo- sition.— Origin of Odd Fellowship. — Records. — ^The Manchester Unity. How materials were obtained for the history. — The close of the reign of Wildey. — ^Plan of treatment.
CHAPTER II.
Washinoton Lodge, No. 1 15
American Odd Fellowship. — Wildey and Welch. — ^Washington Lodge instituted. — The English work. — Jackson the rival of Wildey. — ^P. G. Crowder's mission. — ^The original charter from Duke of York's Lodge. John Yates* mission. — Finances. — The benefit system. — Wildey pre- ferred to Jackson. — ^Franklin Lodge to supersede Washington Lodge. Committee of Past Grands. — The American Degrees. — The P. G.*s of Washington Lodge become the G. L. of Md. and of the U. S. — A Con- stitution adopted.— " The Seven Stars."— " The Three Loggerheads." Stillhouse Lane.— Matthew Blakeley*s;— May 1822.— The Convivial feature.— The Maryland Reform.— The Host.— Odd Fellow's Ameral. Columbia Lodge, No. 8. — Joshua Vansant. — Colvin's Stone Tavern. Wildey's house. — Washington Lodge in 1821 , and its present condition.
CHAPTER III.
John Boyd 67
His nativity. — His employments. — He Joins Washington Lodge. — Assists in establishing the G. L. of Md. and of the U. S.— First G. Guardian and G. Treasurer. — One of the first to receive the Golden Rule Degree. Assists to organize the G. L. of the U. 8. — ^Proxy for Pennsylvania, also Delaware. — Is known as The Past Grand. — A lover of ancient usage. — A Stockholder in the Gay Street Hall. — Becomes wealthy. His devotion to Washington Lotlge. — Last public appearance. — His death. — The medal presented to him.
CHAPTER IV.
The G. Lodge of Md. and of the U. S 6C^
Its organization and first proceedings. — Charter to Franklin Lodge, No. 2. — Constitution adopted. — Address of Wildey. — The Boston let-
CONTENTS.
PAeK tor.— Grant of charters to Mass.— Wlldey's mission.— Applications fVom N. York and Penna.— The odes and tunes.— Medal to G. Sec. Entwisle.— Constitution of Nov. 1828.— Columbia Lodge, No 3.— Proxies to forma G. L. of U. 8.— Financial condition.— Report on for- mation of a G. Lodge of U. 8.— Circular.— Death of G. Sec. Entwisle. Constitution forG. L. of U. 8. — Election for officers G. Lodge of Md. A medal to Wildey.— The G. Lodge of Md. and of the U. S. adjourns tiM die, — Reflections.
CHAPTER V.
John Welch 101
One of the trio. — His history before 1819. — One of the original five. — First Vice Grand.— Wildey's counsellor.— First G. Sec. of G. L. of Md. and of the U. S.— First D. G. S. of the G. L. U. S.— The Mentor and Nestor of the enterprise.
CHAPTER VI.
Thb Grand Lodge op Maryland 108
Its charter. — The theory of its origin. — Charles Conmion, G. M. — Seeks to become a corporate body. — Anniversaries. — Assets. —Degrees and Sunday — Trials. — Political resolutions afterwards expunged. — Reflec- tions.— The present flag procured. —Thomas Scotchbum G. M. — The sitting G. M. to be Rep. to G. L. U. S. — This law repealed. — The Patriarchal Degree and a crozier.— The new signs. — Honorary membership. — Charges and degrees in German. — The Germans in I. O.O.F. — Order and price of Degrees. — A conunon lodge-room. — Ori- gin of the Encampment Branch. — Reports of Subordinates. — Visiting cards. — Of a G. Treasurer. — Incorporation obtained by Ridgely and others.— Resolutions and presentation to Ridgely and Keyser. — " Giv- ing the Honors" abolished.— Gratitude Lodge, No. 6.— An Odd Fel- lows* Hall to be built.— James L. Ridgely becomes G. Sec. — Ilis part in obtainmg the hall— Description of Wildey's Odd Fellows' Hall. The new initiates. — Prominent names. — Difficulty of procuring an auditorium. — Rev. J. V. Bartow. — Gratitude.— The orators Ridgely and Walsh. — The Press. — Condusiou.
CHAPTER VII.
Augustus Mathiot 149
The Young American. — His birth and parentage. — His characteristics. He joins the Order.— Masonry and Odd Fellowship in 1823.— The Ma- ryland reform. — Temperance in 1823.— D. G. Master and G. Master. G. Secretary and G. Treasurer of G. L. U. S.— The second G. Patri- arch.— His success in business and liberality. — A gi*een old age. — His death and the Three Odd Links.
CONTENTS. XI
CHAPTER VIII.
PAGB
Richard Marley 161
Introduction. — Odd Fellowship a field of labor. — His history and work. Initiated in Franklin Lodge. — Proxy for N. York. — His early failing. Fifth degree members and the spurious lodge. — Expelled and retiu-ns. His reformation. — G. Master and G. Patriarch. — His career in the G. L. U. 8. — ^Veneiftblo Warden. — His devotion and influence. — Rare traits of character. — Death of a great Odd Fellow. — His splendid fune- ral.— His Portrait.
CHAPTER IX.
The Grand Lodge op the United States 173
The unity of tlie &mily arrangement. — Its constitution.— A representa- tive body. — Met at Wildey's. — Reflections. — A question of jurisdic- tion.— The oixler of the degrees. — Maryland not to be its ]>crmanent seat. — Arrival of the Patriarchal Degi'ce. — Title of M. W. G. Sire. — The price of the degrees. — Wildey's report of his visit to England. — English charter of 1820. — The American degrees in England. — Cer- tificates and Cards. — New charter to G. Lodge of Pennsylvania. — Central Lodge, No. 1, and Georgetown Lodge, No. 2, of the District of Columbia chartered. — Old and new signs. — Engrossed thanks to the Q. Sire for his visit to England. — The Movable Committee. — The name and initials of the Order. — G. Lodge of the District of Columbia chartered. — The Order in 1829. — Augustus Mnthiot G. Sec— Mass. declining. — Encampments. — Friendly Union Lodge, No. 1, R. Island. John Welch, D. G. Sire, retires.— Thos. Scotchbum, D. Q. 6.— The ^ Order in 1830.— The G. L. of Penn. sustained.— The Movable Com- mittee a failure — Ohio Lodge, No. 1, chartered. — Personal govern- ment.— Eulogy of the founder. — G. Sec. James L. Ridgely as Q. Repre- sentative.— The devotion of Wildcy and Ridgely. — The Order in 1881. Funeral ceremonies. — The literature of the Ortler. — ^The G. Lodge of Ohio. — The G. Encampment of Maryland. — Reflections. — Wildey En- campment, No. 1, at N. Orleans. — G. Lodge of Louisiana. — A libel on the G. Sire. — Boone Lodge, No. 1, at Louisville. — James Gettys, G. Sire.— The Order in 1832.— Meeting of the G. Lodge in Philadelphia. Resolutions and presentation to Wildey. — How procured. — Augus- tus Mathiot, G. Treas. — Farewell Address. — Reflections. — Review of the condition of the Order down to 1833. — Twelve propositions. — Conclusion.
CHAPTER X.
John Pawson Entwisle 237
The intellectual and literary member.— Entwisle before ho found Wil- dey.— The deviser of the Representative system. — His style. — Author of the Covenant and Remembrance Degrees. — The Covenant Degree vindicated and analyzed. — Tlie second D. G. M. — Grand S<»crotary. — Sudden death. — The presiding genius of the Oixler. — His fame as- sured.— Conclusion.
Xll CONTENTS.
CHAPTER XI.
PAGS
The Secret Principle 250
Introductory. — Mystery. — The Ancient Mysteries. — Antiquity of the secret principle. — Doctrines and Rites. — The Eleusininn mysteries. — The Egjrptian school. — China, Japan, Britain, Gaul and Scandinavia. Greece. — Influence of the mysteries on the modems. — Odd Fellow- ship an original. — Ancient mysteries in modern forms. — The doc- trines and rites of Pythagoras. — Free Masonry. — Idolatry and My- thology.— Truth will linally prevaiL
CHAPTER XII.
Thomas Wildet 275
How a biography should be written. — The central figure of the Great Trio. — Wildey before 1819. — He institutes Washington Lodge. — His version of the narrative. — The founder of Odd Fellowship. — Analysis of his character. — His boundless devotion. — His affecting farewell. — As travelling missionary. — His tour and his great success. — Wildey the Patriarch. — His later history and greeu old age. — The death of the founder. — Conclusion.
CHAPTER XIII.
Tbb Degrees and Encampment Branch 29^
The early English work. — The White, Blue and Scarlet Degrees. — Terms. — First appearance of the Golden Rule Degree. — Upon whom conferred. — Ritual of Washington Lodge. — ^The American Degrees. — The Royal Purple Degree.— The Past Official Degrees.— The Grand Lodge Degree. — The Patiiarchal Degree. — An Encampment Lodge. Encampment of Patriarchs. — Chai'ter of the first Encampment of Pa- triarchs.— Encampments in Penn. — New York and Mass. — Wildey took the responsibility. — Acknowledged by the G. L. U. S. -The En- campment Branch. — Obtains representation in the G. L. of U. S. — Maryland followed by the other States. — Great success. — Uniformed Patriarchs. — G. Encampment Degree and Honorary Degree of P. C. P. and P. H. P. — The lectures or ritual. — First printed American lecture- book. — Successive reprints. — The revision of 1835. — Revision of 1845. The unwritten Work. — The secret Joiunal. — The Hailing Sign, the Sign of Recognition and the Degree of Rebekah. — Degree Lodges. Tlie Traveling Password. — Anti-Masonry and the obligation. — Con- clusion.
CHAPTER XIV.
Odd Fellowship in Massachusetts. 881^
Introduction. — John B. Barnes. — His English Medal. — His coadjutors. Mass. Lodge instituted. — Barnes the first N. G. — Siloam Lodge insti-
CONTENTS. XIU
PAOB
tated. — A letter from Md. — Barnes* career. — His departure for Vir- ginia.— ^Medal and tokens of respect. — His death and burial. — ^Bro. Wildon's visit to Baltimore. — Wildey delivers a legal charter to Mass. Lodge. — Copy of the charter. — A G. Lodge instituted. — History of Mass. Lodge, No. 1. — Siloam Lodge, No. 2. — Its charter. — James Wood. — Thomas Ban*. — George Ashworth. — Good Samaritan Lodge, No. 3.— New England Lodge, No. 4.— P. G. M. Thomas F. Norris.— Simeon Southwick. — Joseph Lopez. — Washington Lodge, No. 5. — Adam Lodge, No, 6.— Merrimac Lodge, No. 7. — Smnmary and con- clusion.
CHAPTER XV.
Thb Grand Lodgb of Massachusetts. S09
Action of the G. L. U. S.— Its charter.— Daniel Hersey, first G. M.— First general laws. — ^Public procession and installation at Taunton. — Mer- rimac Lodge, No. 7. — Correspondence with Wildey. — William Bishop, G. M. — Josiah Robinson, G. M. — Visit of the Movable Committee of G. L. U. S. — Albert Guild becomes a member in 1831. — His history. He restores the Order. — Wildey appears. — The circumstances of the decadence of the old G. Lodge. — ^Reflections. — The grand success that followed the revival
CHAPTER XVI.
Odd Fellowship in New York 393
Introduction. — The Chambers family. — They institute Shakespeare Lodge. — Morris and Flanagan. — ^Franklin, Washington, and Co- lumbia Lodges. — Columbia Lodge obtains a legal charter. — Contro- versy with Franklin Lodge. — Charter of Columbia Lodge. — Wildey decides in favor of tJolumbia Lodge. — Columbia Lodge accepts a char- ter from G. Lodge of Md, and U. S. — Benjamin Downing. — Charter of G. Lodge of New York. — Jno. B. Robinson, G. M. — ^Friendship Lodge, No. 2. — Hope Lodge, No. 8. — Strangers* Refuge Lodge, No. 4. — Is expelled and becomes a spurious G. Lodge. — The ancient members and organization. — Philanthropic Lodge, No. 5. — Strangers' Refuge Lodge restored. — Its singular history. — The G. Lodge has its last meeting In 1828. — The change in 1830. — New York and Albany. — Interven- tion of the G. L. U. S. — The revival of the Order, and its new organi- zation.— James Alcock, G. M. — The Order firmly established. — Reflec- tion on the new birth. — John A. Kennedy. — ^Wilson Small.
CHAPTER XVII.
Odd Fellowship in Pennsylvania, 427
Introduction— Pennsylvania Lodge instituted. — Its officers. — It accepts a charter from the G. L. of Md. and of the U. S. — John Upton. — Dock Street. — John Pearce. — New Jersey. — The case of James Day. — John
Xiy CONTENTS.
PAS]
B. Robinson and Samuel Croucher.— Penn. Lodge, No. 1.— The sub- ordinate lodges during the first dccade.~Wa8hington Lodge, No. 2. Account of an ancient lodge meeting.— Wayne Lodge, No. 8.— Morn- ing Star Lodge, No. 4.— Franklin Lodge, No. 6.— General Marion Lodge, No. 6.— Hermann Lodge, No. 7.— Rising Sun Lodge, No. 8. Meclianics' Lodge, No. 9.— Philomathean Lodge, No. 10.— Kensing- ton Lodge, No. 11.— JeflTerson Lodge, No. 12.— Philadelphia Lodge, No. 18.— Wildey Lodge, No. 14— Philanthropic Lodge, No. 15.— Har- mony Lodge, No. 16.— Northern Liberty Lodge, No. 17.— La Fayette Lodge, No. 18.— Amity Lodge, No, 19, and Miners' Lodge, No. 20.— Reflections.
CHAPTER XVIII.
Thb Gband Lodqb of Pbknsylvakia. 468
The first in national importance. — Its charter. — Aaron Nichols, G. M. and Wui. H. Matthews, G. Sec — ^Be^jamin Daffin. — ^Aaron Nichols. Thomas Small, G. M.— Samuel Pryor.— William H. Matthews, G. M. Jolm G. Potts.— Official report in 1829 to G. L. U. S., and corres- pondence of Grand Officers. — Report at the end of first decade. — An- niversaries.— ^The new Hall on South Fifth Street. — Its dedication. — Comparison between Pcnn. and the other States. — Pennsylvania always led the column. — Succeeded without Wildey's assistance. The secret of its success, and the men who have made it triumphant. Conclusion.
CHAPTER XIX.
Thb District of Colttmbia. . 484
Central Lodge, No. 1. — Its offlcxirs and first initiates. — Georgetown Lodge, No. 1 — James Gettys and others initiated-«-Rev. Lorenzo Dow. Petition for G. Lodge granted. — Thos. M, Abbett, G. M. — Concord Loilge, No. 8. — James Gettys, G. M. — Jonathan Lodge, No. 4. — Poca- hontas Lodge. — The decline of the lodges, and its cause. — A counter movement. — Central Lodge resuscitated. — A great Hall for the Or- der.— Thomas M. Abbett and James Gettys.
CHAPTER XX.
Thb Theory of the Degrees. (Hlustratcd) 495
The secrets of Odd Fellowship. — Its doctrines not esoteric. — The foim- dation of the I. O. O. F.— Analysis of the theory of our secret work. The plan for its exemplification. — The rationale of the degrees of the Bubonlinate lodge, and their extension in the Encampment branch. — Exemplification of the degrees.— The first degree.— The second de- gree.—The third degree.— The fourth degree.— The fifth degree.— The end of the degrees.— The Patriarchal Degree.— The Golden Rule Degree.— The Royal Purple D^ree.— The end.
ENGRAVINGS.
STEEL
I'AaE.
I .» -y I.— JAS. L. RIDGELY, G. C. and R. Sbgbbtary. Frontittpitce. ^
n.— THOMAS WILDEY, P. G. Siue 275
in.— JOHN A. KENNEDY, \\ G. Sikk 415
rV.— JAMES GETTY8, P. G. Sike 493
t
' . r
WOOD.
I.— THE SEVEN STARS, Baltimore, 1819, 15
IL— THE THREE LOGGERHEADS, Baltimore, 1821. . . 37
in.— PLAN OF WASHINGTON LODGE-ROOM, 1819. . . 4.5
IV.— COLVIN'S STONE TAVERN, Baltimore, 1823. . . 53
v.— JOHN BOYD .57
VI.-JOHN WELCH .101
VII.— WILDEY'S HOUSE, Baltimore, 1824 14.3
Vm.— L 0.0. F. HALL, Gay St., Baltimore, 1831-1859. . 147
fc ^^^^i^, IX,— AUGUSTUS MATHIOT 149 *
X,— RICHARD MARLEY 101
., XL— JOHN PAWSON ENTWISLE 237
XII.— WILDEY MONUMENT, Baltimore 294
XIIL— TOMB OF WILDEY, Baltimore 295
? fJ \ XIV.— JAMES B. BARNES :m ^
XV.— ENGLISH MEDAL PRESENTED TO JAS. B. BARNES. . 3:17
XVI.— EATON'S HOUSE, Boston, 1820 3:i»
XVII.— AMERUWN MEDAL PRESENTED TO JAS. B. BARNES. JUl
XVIIL— JAMES WOOD :W5
XIX.— THOMAS BARR ;«7
XX.— MASONIC HALL, Akn St., Boston, 1S2:{ 3«()
XXL— DANIEL HERSEY 308
r
^
XVI
CONTENTS.
% '^
1849
-/
4
t 1
XXTI.— ALBERT GUILD
XXIIL— L O. O. F. HALL, Washington St., Boston, 1864. XXIV.— L O. O. F. HALL, Tremont St., Boston, 1871. . XXV.— ECLIPSE AND SIR HENRY, New Yokk, 1823. X XXVI.— BENJAMIN DOWNING. . . ' .
XXVIL— WILSON SMALL
XXVIIL— I. O. O. F. HALL, Grand and Centre Sts., N. York, XXIX— UPTONS HOTEL, Philadelphia, 1821. .
XXX.— JOHN UPTON
^ XXXI.— JOHN PEARCE
XXXH.- BENJAMIN DAFFIN
XXXIIL— THE NICHOLS MONUMENT, Chambersburcj XXXIV.— THOMAS SMALL.
XXXV.— SAAIUEL PRYOR
XXXVI.— L O. O. F. HALL, South Fifth St., PniL.u>ELriiiA, 1830. XXXVII.— L O. O. F. HALL, Sixth and Crewsun Sts.\ Phila., 1840. XXXVIIL— L O. O. F. HALL, Broad and Sp\i Garden Sts., Phila., 1852 XXXIX.— MILBURN'S HOTEL, Washington, 1827. XL.— LIBRARY BUILDING, Wa8Hin(ston, 1828 XLI.— THOMAS M. ABBETT. XLIL— I. O. O. F. HALL, Washington, 1874. XLin.— THE ALL SEEING EYE. . XLIV.— THE SUN AND SCYTHE. . XLV.— THE BOW AND ARROWS. XLVI.— THE ARK OF THE COVENANT, XLVII.— THE GLOBE AND LAMB. XLVIII.— THE BIBLE AND COFFIN. XLIX.— THE H. P. AND G. OF T. . L.— THE THREE PILLARS. . LI.— THE TABLES OF STONE. LII.— SCRIP, SANDALS AND STAFF.
PAQE.
387 ;^88 3J)2 395
41(S 422 423 425 42(5 4(>1 4^3 4(^4 4fr) 477 478 . 479 480 484 4H6
490 498 499 500 501 503 503 504 5a5 500 507
CHAPTER I.
INTRODUCTION.
But how tho Bubject-theme may gang. Let time and chance determine ;
Ferliaiw It may turn out a sang, Porhape turn out a eermon.
—BrRsa.
" It is the first law of liistory, that tlie writer should neither dare to advance what is false nor to suppress what is true ; that he should relate the facts with strict impartiality, free from ill will or favor; that his narrative should distinguish the order of time, and, when necessary, the description of places ; that he should imfold the motives of men, and in his account of the transactions or the events, interj^ose his own judgment : should relate what was done, how it was done, and what share chance, rashness, or pnidence had in the issue; that he should give the character of the leading men, their weiglit and influence, their passions, principles, and conduct through life."
Cicero was never more fortunate than when, witli peculiar felicity of diction, he wrote this heautiful canon of criticism. Its conception and expression would seem to defy any later censor to add to or diminish from its scope and substance, and render it worthy to appear with the golden sentences engraved upon the memory of the world. The rule indicates deep insight, and is suitable to any age and every historian.
As our ability may serve, we shall consult this chart in the work before us, and strive to present it in such lights and with BXU'h accessories as will give the reader a true version of the matter. We shall be at pains also to leave the common track of €ulog}', and to deal with impartial measure tlie praise and blame due to prominent individuals; omitting no incident that may ser\'e to shed light upon the eventful story.
A growing desire has for some time prevailed on the part of Odd FelloMs, that the origin of the Order should l)e dertnitt^ly 1
AMERICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
and authoritatively declared, and that its career should be traced from the beginning. Such a desire is natural, and ought to be gratified. True, in many instances this sentiment will be found to be rather the aspiration of a noble pride, than the demand of the mind for a discussion of the principles with which we are identified. To gratify such laudable feelings would at all times be a pleasant task ; but such is not our only design. The sine qua 7wn of the Order is not merely that we should indulge in nnitual congratulations. The primary demand of the communi- ties upon which its principles are designed to act, and even of Odd Fellows themselves, is indeed of far greater moment ; the latter require it for tlieir justification and encouragement, and the former for their enlightenment and co-operative favor. These can only be furnished by its character and reliability as an agent for good among men. By the force of circumstances it has already been grandly advertised ; its practical public life and its jibundant fruits during the last half century have left Imt little to present which is really new. The incidents of its origin have been sown broadcast by itij orators and its publications, and by the favorable notices of the press ; many of these have been highly colored, and some of them are entirely apocrj^hal ; yet out of this partial chaos, one may easily perceive a lofty pedestal, with glimpses of an angel hand removing the veil from a statue of exquisite symmetry and beauty. Odd Fellowship, as we know it, is an institution of modem times, grown in our midst and fashioned by our liands.
Every brother who has been impressed with its principles, who has observed its influence upon men, or has been led to investigate and dis(*over its true character, knows its origin, the manner of its introduction into this country, — wheny vhere^ and hy ithom^ — and also its general (career up to this day. He is, besides, thoroughly advised of the changes it has undergone under American auspices. The principles, however, of the Order are of early date, and go back to periods of time when men were under very different guidance — religious, moral, and intel- lectual. Indeed, the relation of fraternity, instinctive of human- ity and divinity, w'as the birth-right of the rdce ; innate as life itself is the sentiment of a (x>mmon father and a single family, that we are "of one blood," and that each son of Adam is my brother by hereditary ties. Such also have been the a\vfiil and splendid
INTRODUCTTION.
announcements of revelation, by which we know the eternal God as the Father of mankind.
From these sources, Odd Fellowship, as a system of fraternal benevolence and reciprocal aid, comprehending not only its prin- ciples, but its illustrative and theoretical character, is derived. Like many other institutions, it has blended beautiful ceremonies with solid and useful forms ; these, though harmless, may be thought superfluous and of no efficient value. But whether in- dulged in as agreeable ornaments, or relied upon as necessary and improving adjuncts, they are an interesting feature in the sub- stantive administration of the system. This, far from being pecu- liar to Odd Fellows, is characteristic of all delicately organized association, of all classes of people, in fact of nature itself. Nothing in life is presented in its simple and exclusively neces- sary apparel ; everything is decked in engaging colors, so as to combine attractiveness and beauty with utility and value. Some- thing, however, may be necessary, as well to vindicate it from attempted disparagement in other respects, as to a proper enlight- enment of the public mind. Odd Fellowship is sometimes spoken of reproachfully by reason of its name, on account of the seeming levity it conveys. It is also not unfrequently taunted as a bor- '4^
rower, and thus having nothing in its organization which is orig- inal, having derived everything of consequence in its system and ritual from other sources, particularly so from the Masonic Order. For some years during its earlier career, such unjust as well as ungenerous imputations obtained ; but for the most part it has outlived such reproaches, and conquered by its works the general good favor. Touching the name, it may be replied, that if not euphonious, that fact is wholly unimportant so long as the object in \'iew is honorable and worthy, even should such a name not be appropriate as fully indicative of its purpose. An objection on this point is equally wanting in force, for tlie reason that fit- ness in the mere selection of a name is rather the exception than the rule ; taste, caprice, and sometimes even prejudice, generally determining the choice. That great body of Christians known as Methodists, was so nicknamed by its enemies ; and that valuable class of citizens known as Quakers, was so chIIcmI in tlie first instance as a mark of scorn and ridicule. Yet those bodies liave turned the tables on their adversaries, bv answering to those names as a mark of the honorable circumstances under which
-li
4 AMERICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
they were first imposed. In like manner we may point to the first occasion for our name in the good fellowship that has ripened into a blessed fraternity, among boon companions and the fumes of beer and tobacco, in the convivial companionship of homeless tramps and bustling landlords ; but all tliese have been forgotten. As to our principles and ceremonies, these we are willing to admit rest upon a common basis with those of other secret societies. We have the same grand natural truths and the same splendid revelation. History with its magnificent examples and glorious illustrations is the common property of all, and it is only because we have dug in the same mines that the precious jewels that we wear are so very similar. Having the same base, they are of the same species. All avail themselves of like means of inter-communication and recognition, viz. a language of signs and symbols ; all aspire to an important and moral agency in promoting closer relations among men, and in the elevation of the race; but it by no means follows that Odd Fellowship derives its character from Masonry, or is a borrower from its ritual. Successive offspring of fraternity, they each bear the stamp of their common origin ; but as well say that brothers by blood are copies of each other because of their resemblance to the common parent, as that Odd Fellowship is a recast of Masonry. Had signs and symbols, or the application of them to language, been originated by our sister Order, or had tlie Divine Wisdom, in making fraternity obligatory, committed its administration to her, we should at once concede the claims of the indis- creet advocates who assume such a position. But as the fact is far otherwise, we cannot go further in deferring to her claim in this regard, than cheerfully to accord her greater antiquity in the inculcation of universal truth, and of practical benevolence among men as a paramount duty. Odd Fellows recognize Free Masonry as an eminent, honorable and useful institution ; but they also claim a just measure of respect at its hands, and press upon it a fraternal challenge for supremacy "in tlie warfare which they wage against vice in all its forms," and invite it to raise the Masonic standard still liigher if it can. True to their lessons, we have every reason to believe that a corresponding sympathy prevails among our Masonic brethren, and tliat henceforth tlie only conflict between these two great organiza- tions, enlisted in the interest of humanity, will be an earnest
INTBODUOnON. 5
rivalry as to which shall achieve the noblest record in so grand a
cause.
But assailants, who are alike inimical to Masonry and to Odd Fellowship, and to all other organizations of men for benevolent purposes, which are secret, still remain. They are of two classes ; the first has neither character nor influence, but drives a mercenary trade by the sale of so called exposures of the rites and ceremonies of these orders. They may well be left to the degrar dation of the lot they have chosen : w^hether they have swindled the orders or the public is a small matter ; in either case they are swindlers, and from such no possible harm can happen to honorable men. The other class is far different, and is armed with an authority which multitudes acknowledge and obey. We refer to certain portions of the Christian Church. So far as our order was con- cerned, this was originally the greatest obstacle in the way. By reason of a mistaken view of our character and objects, we found in the churches bitter and uncompromising enemies.
But the Protestant Churches, that live in the light of an intel- ligent public opinion, gradually changed their ground, and made honorable amends for their original position, so that for the most part they now give us substantial aid and comfort. We shall not waste words in discussing the hostility of the Eoman Catholic Church to all secular secret societies. That establishment is so exclusive and dictatorial that it cannot brook apparent opjx)- sition, even in the strife of good works. Its system of central, arbitrary and exclusive authority cannot admit our independent efforts ; but the loss is not ours, and confident in our work and destiny, we may well afford to pity a perversity which cuts off its members from one of the greatest lights of civilization. But they do not altogether grope in darkness ; to the contrary, we discover everywhere arising among them H\moB>t /ac-fiimiles of our secret societies, aiming to borrow our forms and regalia, and scarcely to be distinguished by the public from Masons or Odd Fellows. Such is the compliment paid us by our worst traducers, and surely we can ask nothing more. Secret benevo- lent societies are as old as any Christian Church, and in fac^t owe their origin to religion. Such associations have never checked or injured any fonn of goodness. Our order is composed of men of wdely differing religious and political opinions, and is acces- sible at all times and in all places to the press and to the people.
9 AMERICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
Under such conditions its most secret recesses are made bare, and adequate security given, were any necessary, for tlie public safety.
An attack, therefore, upon our secrecy is of a piece with the rest, an ebullition of public envy or of private spite. Secular organizations for benevolence, whose mission is to the masses, and whose work lies in " visiting the sick, succoring the widow, caring for the afflicted, burying the dead, and educating the orphan," seriously interfere wuth those who exclusively assume such duties " by divine right," and yet fail fully and properly to discharge them. The citizen organization which enters upon and discharges these duties is a standing menace to infallibility. "7/tW UhB lachryvioi!^'* The anathema is therefore not so much aimed at our secrecy as against our good works, and their tendency to interfere with peculiar religious dogmas. But we turn to a brighter side of the picture. The object of this work is to present before the world one of those great organizations as w^orthy of confidence and respect as an agent of general benefacv tion. We feel assured that by a diffusion of a correct knowledge of its labors and of their fruits during the last half century, its usefulness will not only be greatly promoted, but a new and powerful impulse will be supplied to its increasing growth and resources. Its history will be written under the influence of that sentiment. It will therefore require that we consider and present the true origin, commencing as an assemblage of workmen in England for social enjoyment, and its transition from an inchoate beginning to a formal association ; its continued development to a system having defined objects ; thence the formation of Lodges, and to a combination of these into an affiliated Order, in imita- tion no doul>t of kindred existing establishments, the first being known as "The Ancient Order of Odd Fellows," begun in the city of London in the 17th century. We shall also introduce all that is known of the colonization of these principles on our shores: that emigrants from England planted the seeds of the enteq)rise ; that they were representatives of the various classes or divisions of the Order in the mother country, which were wholly independent (»f each other, and differed entirely in their svstems of work.
Such dissimilar elements could not, however, hannonize ; and thus their Odd Fellowship, although of a kindred origin, was,
INTKODUCTION. T
when blended, merely patchwork, made up of the ritual of several of those independent societies. But the American Order was fortunate. It will appear that by the accidental visit of a brother better instructed, they were furnished with later and more complete information, which gave them unity. So far as hecould recognize anything among them, he found a singular mixture ; being a jumble and compound of the Union Order, and of the London or Ancient Order. But by his assistance these were discarded for the true and established work of the Manchester Unity. But these accidental lodges will be found to have nothing in common with our Order, which had its origin in Thomas Wildey in 1819. From this point it will be traced to the year 1833 inclu- sive, showing its gradual change of character, and consequent adaptation to lofty moral results. As a system created under American auspices, it has a record which it will be our effort faithfully to portray. Taking it up in that aspect, on the 26th of April, 181J), the day of its birth in the city of Baltimore, by the institution of Washington I^dge, No. 1, we shall unfold the true story of its iirst planting.
The Grand Lodge of the United States has never recognized any besides the four originals, in their natural order, namely : Washington I^dge, No. 1, of Maryland; Massachusetts Lodge, No. 1, of Massachusetts; Columbia Lodge, No. 1, of New York, and Pennsylvania Lodge, No. 1, of Pennsylvania. The first of these succeeded in bringing the others into a common union, and in that way formed the nucleus of the present Order.
Tlie first movers were of limited education, and in a humble sphere of life. At a later period the Order acquired men of education from every calling in life, many of whom testified their love for the institution bv the most valuable assistance of mind and body in its behalf; but these were restrained by a proper delicacy from magnifying their own achievements. They came in generally after the first decade, and to them we are mainly indebted for what may properly be called moral and progres- sive Odd Fellowship. They found it simply a beneficial so- ciety, presenting nothing attractive; and to their sagacity and enlightened judgment is due the combination of the moral and beneficial features of the Order, and the blending of the two into the one great idea of the American system. To accomplish this, it became necessary to engraft higher aspirations upon the orig-
8 AMERICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
inal stock, to widen the scope of its ambition, to amplify tlio- moral area, and to lift it into a higher and purer region. They could not speak of these things but in the first person and ^' quorum para fuV^ was not their motto. No records of the Grand Lodge of the United States had been preserved for several years after its separation from {he Grand Lodge of Maryland, nor had the minutes, after separating from Washington Lodge, been more than a mere skeleton, and that belonged to the Grand Lodge of Maryland. Nor had the Grand Lodge of Maryland any printed journal anterior to 1831, and it is only since then that its proceedings have been published.
The Grand Lodge of the United States was in fac^t without any authentic manuscript record of its own proceedings, and had no printed minutes, except occasional detached sheets, up to 1827. The manuscript journals of the earlier period of Maryland, Penn- sylvania, New York, and possibly of Massachusetts, now in exist- ence, have been since collected and printed. It became neces- sary to supply this deficiency, in the best way it could be done, before it was too late. Accordingly the G. L. U. S., whose atten- tion was called to this subject by the Grand Secretar}^ at the ses- sion of 1841, directed that officer to obtain from P. G. Sire Wildey all " documents connected with the early history of the Order in his possession ; comprising ancient chartei*s, pamphlets, magazines and record books of much interest and valuable infor- mation "; also, " to collect all property of this Grand Lodge, now in possession of others, and retain the same in his possession until a depository may be provided, or as this Grand Lodge may direct." It was also further ordered " that the Grand Corresponding and Recording Secretary, be and he is hereby authorized to rent a suitable room as a place of deposit for all the books, documents and property of the Grand Lodge of the United States, and to transfer to said room the said property, after he shall have made an inventory thereof."
At the session of 1842, it was " Resolved, that the Grand Lodge of the United States approve of the printing of the journal from the commencement, in case any respectable member of the Order shall feel disposed to do so, on his own account ; in which event the Grand Lodge will subscribe for one hundred copies " ; and also, "that the Grand Secretary be and he is hereby ap- pointed to revise and cause to be published a correct journal of
INTRODUCTION. 9
the proceedings of this Lodge from its formation, provided the same be of no expense to the Grand Body." (Journal, 502.)
These proceedings were all in the interest of progress, and led to the most valuable results ; while the necessity for them indi- cates the very loose manner in which business had been con- ducted, there being at that late day no proper office for the Grand Secretary nor depository for the archives, and in fact no record or account books, and no system of any kind. This measure of reform was indispensable and wise, and was the begin- ning of that system which has caused the subsequent proceedings of the Order to take their present comprehensive and luminous form. In pursuance thereof the Grand Secretary selected Bro. John A. Kennedy of New York, then Grand Sire, as his assistant in this interesting business. By their joint labors and persistent research, all of the first volume of the revised journal was ob- tained : that is to say, the record of the organization of the Grand Lodge of Maryland and of the United States, and the detail of proceedings from that initial to the formation of the Grand Lodge of tlie United States ; also, the pre-history of the several subordinate Lodges out of which it was formed, with the records of the four State Grand Lodges until their union with the present federal system.
This invaluable record was obtained in detached portions, in part from the manuscript journal of Washington Lodge, No. 1, the minutes of the Grand Lodge of Marjland and of the United States, and of the Grand Lodges of Pennsylvania, New York, and Massachusetts. To these were added traditionary data obtained from the leading men who took part in the early movements, and who had not then passed away. This material was woven into the text of the first volume of the journal from 1821 to 1826 inclusive, and furnished the copious notes thereto appended. There seems to have been an utter indifference to the preservation of the early records, so much BO indeed that many of the original minute-books of the first Lodges were permitted to perish. The result of all these in- quiries and of all this research terminated in the book that was reported to the G. L. U. S. at the session of 1844, and was adopte<l by that body with great unanimity. (Journal, 621, 657.) The effect produced by its appearance was such as the let- tered reader may readily perceive, since it changed chaos into
10 AMEBICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
order and system. Nor did its advantages stop here ; this example had its influence upon State Grand Bodies and subordinates, which began at once the preservation of their historic possessions. With these scant materials, it has been with diffidence that we assumed the responsibility involved in this production. The beginning is the salient point in all narrative; when this is properly presented, confidence is inspired, and encouragement is given both to the writer and the reader. An obscure or hidden initial is a difficulty never to be overcome, and never fails to embarrass progress. In early days our orators, after the manner of tlie mercantile classes, vaunted in glowing colors the value and quality of their wares. It was usual to profess an antique origin, so far back as the first d awnings of the secret principle, and thence through all the ages, the camp of the Roman Legion, into Britain and Gaul, and wherever the Caesars car^ ried their victorious eagles. Learning and ingenuity were com- bined to weave fabulous narratives of the olden time in proof of the mysterious origin. But the genesis was too recent to admit of such fables, and gave positive proof to the contrary. The origin was too notorious to be hidden away in the dreams of a rash enthusiasm, and a very short time was required to dissolve such visions into their native ether. The public mind was irresistibly attracted to Washington Lodge and to Wildey as a starting point, so entirely satisfactory that nothing more was required on that subject. The idea was latent in the charter of 1820, which was only a bond of connection with the Manchester Unity ; but its development was American, and it did not need the formal sepa- ration from the Unity in 1843 to give it the character of a national institution. Thus we have no common ritual, no affilia- tion, and nothing of the same form of government. In ours alone we find stirring appeals to the higher nature, and those moral and divine principles which elevate it almost to the dignity of a reli- gion. In England, relief is the chief aim, to which all else is made subordinate. Tlie Manchester Unity, although greatly im- proved, is chiefly a life and health insurance company, with dues and benefits graduated by the scale of risks taken by insurance companies. This is praiseworthy, and should be imitated ; some of the most able of our own brethren are doing good service in the same direction, for which they are entitled to the thanks of all ; but neither they nor we make it our chief aim and highest con- cern. The contrast is great and the difference vital.
INTRODUCTION. 11
The written and unwritten work that once united them has been neglected by the Unity, and but few traces of that bond of union are left among us. The link that united us to a common ancestry has been broken forever, and we are so altered and im- proved as to have created a new system. It is firmly believed that no such work as ours, under any of the names known as Odd Fellows, has ever been completed ; and to-day it is the pride and oracle of a body of men who may well rank among tlie most enlightened on the globe. Thus these annals go back more than half a century. The beginning, as to place, is sufficiently certain ; some dates have also been preserved, and a number of interesting facts of more or less importance to the story. But for the most part, many of the facts detailed have been found after careful searcliing, and others will be discovered to be fragments picked up here and there among the dust which has settled on much that we would fain discover if we could. Men of action make history, but seldom preserv^e the materials they have used ; it follows that in many cases it will be found difficult, if not impos- sible, to trace back some of the greatest results of human conduct to the men and the incidents that gave them origin. In our task we occupy a middle ground, so that while we must fail to gratify curiosity in many particulars, yet in others, and those of the greatest moment, we shall be able to let in the light upon impor- tant starting j)oints, show the objects indicated, introduce the actors, in many cases exhibit their motives, and even at times oifer a ej)ectator as a witness to some crude effort of beginning. Unfortunately for us, the early records of Washing- ton Lodge cannot be found. They are reported lost, and this compels us to rely more or less on the traditional statements of early members ; the narrowness of which limit will apjx^ar when we consider that nearly all who participated in the first decade of the Order have made their final exit. To these few, but a small portion of the events of the early days of that period could be personally known. Joshua Vansant of 1823, and James L. Ridgely of 1829, constitute about all that are left of the Order that date from that period. Ridgely did not come in until just as the first decade was closing and the second opening ; and as he at once inaugurated movements for reforming abuses and for im- proving the condition of the Order, he had but little opportunity to become familiar with details which he had then neither the
12 AMERICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
taste nor ineiination to appreciate. Could he have foreseen tlie importance of such facts, and that he would be called upon for tlieir recital, a far different and decidedly more satisfactory pre- paration would have been made for this history. But what man could then foresee this day, and anticipate the fame that would surround that decade? Who that saw and mingled in those early scenes could realize their romantic interest : that they were rehearsals of dramatic import to unborn generations ; that those obscure names would become household words in many lan- guages and among many nations ; tliat one of the band of early enthusiasts, himself the earliest and the most laborious of them all, yet a man of but little culture and of slender abilities, should, at his decease, be mourned by a great national institu- tion, and that a monument should proudly rise in grateful mem- ory of his deeds ? Some such events were indeed foreshadowed, and were the theme of ardent minds ; but the probable existence of such a reality was as unassured as the verity of a half awaken- ing dream. At all events, no proper record of the early history attests the faith of the founders in the imj)ortance of their Mork. We are therefore entirely dependent, in many particulars, on the traditions — furnished from time to time by Wildey, Welch, Jack- son, Boyd, Mathlot, Marley, Fennell and others, with whom many of us have had personal relations. These, with certain minutes, narratives and letters which remain, are the sources from which we have drawn. Above and beyond all are we indebted to the invaluable manuscript of P. G. Sire K(*nnedy, in which he has collected a large amount of data^ from various directions ; without which, indeed, many vital points in this chronicle must have been omitted. To these, that lamented and distinguished brother has added some personal reminiscences of an interesting cliaracter, which will make their appearance in their proper places in the narrative.
The history of the first decade cannot be confined strictly within that period, l)ut will of necessity embrace a longer time for the development of the first great era. The retirement of the last of the pioneers, the founder of the Order, will naturally be the resting point; without including that event the story would be imperfect, and no just conception can be had of the reign of Wildey. Around that act the whole interest must center as the starting point of constitutional government. One goal
DTTRODCCnOX, 13
bad been reached, and another was rising before the new men to whom was confided the eventful future. At that epoch we can safely leave them, and at the same time complete the narrative which explains the past and the present of Odd FellowshijK To vindicate the Order as a secret society will also require a chapter on the secret principle, the histon* of the degrees and secret work, and an exemplification and defence of oitr claims as teachers after the manner of the olden times. In the rich field of biography we might gather enough to fill a volume ; but our space will require a scanty selection. Boyd must of necessity appear ; Marley and Mathiot were fortimate in coming down to our times, and, as men of 1S23, cannot l)e neglected; Welch, Entwisle and Wildey, as the great trio, will be seen everywhere ; but filial duty and grateful reverence Avill prepare a niche for each of these fraternal heroes in a separate biography.
We do not propose to furnish a bare recital of I-iodgo minutes, or a mere statement of the numerical progress made by the Order in this country. Such a work would disappoint just exjHvta- tions, and serve no good purpose. The public view the world as a theatre, upon which men and institutions appear and disapjwar in the drama of life. To this stac]^e thev not oulv look for events and characters in chronological order, but also for the disi)lay of tlieir relative nature, quality and influence. Especially do they expect from the dramatis personae the exliibition of those attrilv utes which display the passions and principles, the sentiments and actions which have wrought out the story and pointed the moral of the play. In some such way we would delineate the moral qualities and persistent energy which have been displaye<l ; exhibit the trials which have been conquered through long years of severe struggles ; exalt the heroism and patient toil which never wearied, be the outlook ever so discouraging ; approve the wise foresight which deserved success, and, when obtained, knew how to utilize it ; and especially commemorate the genius which grew up with and as part of the American scheme and gave it vitality. The genu of that now consunmiate system apjHiared in 1821, since which it has attained a strength, beauty and vitality which are the just admiration of its votaries, and has become a vast element of power in the body politic. But this genc^ral statement must suffice. The l)ook after all must speak for itself. One fact will appear in its j)ages which nothing can alter: WiLDEV is the central figure in the history.
14 AMERICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
Recitals and descriptions naturally arising out of these sub- jects cannot fail to relieve the monotony of lodge proceedings and financial statements, especially if personal allusions and biographical sketches be superadded to the manners, habits and style of the people of the times. This character of treatment will be adopted whenever the subject will admit of such amplifi- cation, without breaking that continuity which must be consulted in the close connection of the narrative. The novelty of the attempt, and the method we have adopted, will discover to those most capable of judging of their merits, the difficulties we have met at every page we have wTitten ; but having done our best, we rely upon our brethren and the public for a generous criticism of this first authentic and official history of American Odd Fel- lowship.
CHAPTER II.
WASHINGTON LODGE, NO. 1.
I swear By the simplicity of Venus' doves. By that which knlttetli souls, and prospers loves. In the same place thou hast appointed me. To-morrow truly will I meet with thee.
— Shakspeabe.
To a vast brotherhood residing in all parts of the United States, in the Provinces of British North America, in Aus- tralia, South America, and Germany, this work will be wel- come. Their intelligence requires no apology for such a publi- cation ; but, to the contrary, the facts and incidents here recorded will be to them of supreme importance. Indeed, we have every reason to believe that they ardently desire this history, to vindicate their adherence to Odd Fellowship, by giving them a true and connected view of the early days of its obscure but hon- orable origin. The prosperous family naturally turns to its an- cestors for the secret of the merit which has caused its rise, and glows with pride to find it in the sturdy industry and sterling integrity of the fathers. A similar sentiment must stir the heart of a fraternity so great and powerful as that of Odd Fellows. We are irresistibly led to seek out our predecessors, and with filial care to learn all we can of our venerated founders ; to gaze upon the "rude forefathers" in the costume and with the man- ners and habits of their age and condition ; to view the rise of our Order to its present magnitude, and to know the reasons that exist to cause us to fear nothing in looking backward to the days of its obscurity. But the outside world may not be so easily sat- isfied. It is too busy in church and state to concern itself with the affairs of a secret society. The general reader, too indolent to discover our importance, may dismiss this volume with a smile of incredulity. He may wonder to see so much labor expended on such seeming trifles. What ! a secret society to publish its history I An imposing publication to recount the deeds of men
(15)
16 AMERICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
unknown in any of the annals of the day ! A journal of the mystic vagaries of wild enthusiasts, or pageant-loving men whose great feat is a procession ! We can imagine some well-disposed reader of the title laying down the book with a smile at the cre- dulity that produced it. And really we can scarcely blame such an one, when we consider the narrow vision of many who ought long since to have been enlightened. At all events, we invite all fair men to peruse tlie following statement.
AMERICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
The Independent Order of Odd Fellows has 4 Supreme Grand Lodges, viz. in the United States, the German Empire, Australia, and New Zealand, It has 48 subordinate Grand Lodges in the United States, and 4 in the German Empire ; 39 Grand Encampments in the LTnited States and one in Australia. The subordinate lodges are in tlie United States 6,734, in the Gennan Empire 42, in Australia 63, and in New Zealand 20, making a total of 6,859. In the United States there are 1,818 sub- ordinate encampments, in the German Empire 5, and in Australia and New Zealand 4, making in all 1,827. In the encampment or superior branch there are 87,896 members. There are also 870 Rebekah Degree Lodges, composed of members of the Fifth degree and their wives. During the past year there have been 40,578 initiations, and the sum of $1,702,774.82 has been spent for relief of members. The total revenue for the year was four million, five hundred and sixteen thousand, six hundred and sixty dollars and sixty-three cents. From 1830 to December 31, 1877, we find the following aggregates: Initiations 1,064,928; members relieved 816,882; widowed families re- lieved 108,385 ; members buried 74,226 ; the whole amount of relief was sixty-nine million, two hundred and thirty-five thou- sand, nine hundred and eighty-nine dollars and forty-five cents. What we have paid in charity and for the education of orphans would fill a volume and to-day we number a membership of 465,466. When we speak of the Order in the United States we include the Provinces of British North America. No man can read these figures without being penetrated with an intense desire to know the source of such ])enefactions. In these pages will be found an answer to all questions worthy of reply, and true men everywhere
WASHINGTON LODGE. 17
will rejoice at a spectacle which we fondly hope is already blessed by Heaven. The facts we shall narrate are stranger than fiction, and the whole subject is full of romance. The calendar of good men will have added to its pages names now merely known, but ever after to be held in grateful memory. Tlie story will appeal to national pride, for it is all American ; the scenes are in our own States and cities, and the incidents will show that the spirit of the country inspired them. In all the hundred years since 1776, no more glorious fruit of independence has been gathered from the tree of liberty. In the year of jubilee, 1876, no voices were louder than ours to rejoice, for none had greater reason. No more costly merchandise, no more precious gem, no greater in- strument for the common good, no more beneficent outgrowth of our civilization appeared at the Centennial. We carried to the exhibition our works of charity and benevolence, and on and above them in golden lettering wrote the proud inscription, *' These also are American."
WILDEY AND WELCH.
The city of Baltimore, the great seaport and entrepot of com- merce of the State of Maryland, is too well known to require description. For many years it ranked the third among the cities of the United States in size and population. In the year 1818 its inhabitants were less than sixty thousand, and the whole State was not then more populous than the present city. The war with England had just closed, in which the city had been attacked, and Washington, the capital of the country, but thirty-nine miles distant, was captured and its public edifices barbarously burned. It followed that England was much hated by our countrymen, and nowhere was that hatred more intense than in Baltimore. To be an Englishman was an offence to both pride and patriotism, and all such were considered public and perfidious enemies. It was at this period, say in the winter of 1818, that one Thomas Wildey and a certain John Welch, both natives of England, were residents of that city, and as fellow-c^ountrymen were in the habit of spending much of their leisure time together. Wildey had been initiated into an Odd Fellows lodge in the city of Lon- don about 1804, when he was twenty-two years of age, and sub- «e(juently took an active part in starting another in the same city,
a
18 AMERICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
nnder the style of Morning Star Lodge, Xo. 38. Both of these were subordinate to a body then known as the Grand Lodge of England, but whose authority was Httle recognized outside of London city. There were then, as there are now, in England, many separate organizations and independent lodges ; they were secret, and the only bond of union was the use of the same form of what was denominated " work."' Thus a change of member- ship from one to the other was provided for, and such arrange- ments were made with the utmost facility. Wildey emigrated to this country in 1817 ; the movement which resulted in the fonna- tion of the Manchester Unity was so entirely provincial that no knowledge of it had reached the metropolis, and hence he left England without instruction in the work of the Independent Order. During his membership in the two lodges referred to, he had passed through all the otfices, having filled the chair of Noble Grand as many as three times. Welch had also been a member of a London lodge, and had passed the chairs before his emigration.
A LODGE OF ODD FELLOWS TO IJE FORMED.
The two friends, among other souvenirs of the old country, were loud in their regrets that a change of residence had deprived them of the social pleasure of a lodge. Soon an intense desire arose to bring about similar relations, and tlioy mutually resolved, if possible, to form a lodge of Odd Fellows. The fi>rst difficulty was to find the proper number for the puqlo^ie. Private efforts; were made, and everv means at liand exhausted to discover other brothers, but in vain. It then occurred to tliem that a resort to the newspapers might prove more successful, and this ha]>py thought resulted in the following, whicli appeared in " The Bal- timore American'' on the 13th day of P'ebruary, 1819:
"Notice to all Odd Fellows. — A few members of the Societv of Odd Fellows will be ixhid to nu»et their brethren for consultation upon the subject of forming a Lodge. The meet- ing will be held on Friday evening, the 2d March, 1810."'
At the time and place designated two recruits made their appearance, namely, John Duncan and John Cheatham ; the lat- ter had been initiated in England, and was proficient in the old work; the fonner claimed to have been initiated in the city
WASHINGTON LODGE. 19
of Baltimore seventeen years before, but he could give no satisfactory account of the lodge in which it was done, neither its name, location nor membership, but lie retained an accurate knowledge of the ancient password^ sign and grij). As cards were then not in use by the London Order^ they proceeded by mutual examinations to test one another, and the result was entirely satisfactory. But the further difficulty arose that tlicy were in all but four, and by ancient usage the number of five was necessary to form a lodge. The method they were adopting was known as " self-institution," and they might have been iiTeg- ular in their preliminaries, but the temptation was not sufficient to afiect their fidelity to a fundamental regulation of the Order. Ardently as they desired to organize, tliey would not violate the organic law. Frequent conferences were held, and new search made for an additional member, but without success. Again they had recourse to the newspaper, and tlie following advertise- ment appeared in "The Baltimore American" on the 27th day of March, 1819 :
"Notice to Odd Fellows. — A few membei*s of the Society of Odd Fellows will be glad to meet their brethren for the purpose of forming a Lodge, on Friday evening, 2d April, at the Seven Stare, Second Street, at the hour of seven P. M."
WASHINGTON LODGE INSHTUTED.
This had the effect of bringing to the surface a certain Richard Rush worth, another initiate of the London body, and BO the magic number was complete. Not a moment was lost, but all the necessary arrangements were speedily made, so that on Monday, April 26th, 1819, the five brothers met at the sign of " The Seven Starsj^ on the south side of Second Street, between Frederick Street and Market Space, at a public; house kei)t by a certain William Lupton ; and then and there, with all the forms of which they possessed any knowledge, they solenmly instituted and opened a lodge, which they named " AVashington Lodge of Odd Fellows." Tliomas AVildey was installed as Noble Grand, and John Welch as Vice Grand ; the other brothers were also given offices, but it is not certain how they were distributed. In such haste, but also with all due formality and dignity, was the first stone laid in the foundation of American Odd Fellow-
20 AMEBIOAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
ship I Five Englishmen separated themselves from a commnnity in which they were already condemned by a national prejudice. The object was one of English origin, and the place and order of their meetings were calculated to increase the feeling of bitter- ness against them : but they were in earnest, and had no thought of failure. Efforts were at once commenced to add to their number, and within two or three weeks they had increased their member- ship to fifteen.
THE LODGE OBTAINS THE ENGLISH WOBK.
It was at this time that one Henry M. Jackson arrived in Baltimore from Liveri)ool, and on learning of the existence of the lodge he was much surprised ; for, under the impression that there was no lodge of the Order in the United States, he had come provided with copies of the cliarges, then recently revised by the still incipient Manchester Unity, as well as the lectures just issued by the same authority ; and he had fondly hoped to become the pioneer of Odd Fellowship in America. He made his appearance at the house of Lupton, and without loss of time secured an introduction to the Noble Grand. Wildey met him with pleasure, and gave him a cordial invitation to attend the lodge at its next meeting. At that meeting he was well received, and, as a compliment, was invited by the Noble Grand to occupy the chair of the Warden at the opening of the lodge. Tliis posi- tion enabled him readily to ascertain, before the lodge was opened, that it was not being worked on the refonned plan adopted by the Manchester Unity. Of course he made the point, as he had no doubt come there for that as well as for other purposes; and so he gravely announced to the astonished Noble Grand, ^^ Nobody in the lodge is correct^ The consternation that ensued was fol- lowed by a recess, when all were requested to withdraw from the lodge-room except N. G. Wildey and V. G. Welch ; Jackson then produced his revised documents, and proceeded to infonn the two ofBeers of the manner in which the changeable password was operated in conjunction with the old pennanent one, which was then in use by all divisions of the Order. It is presumed that he submitted the whole of the improvements made by the Manchester Unity, so far as they had progressed, which consisted of: 1st. The weekly benefit system, on which the Unity had
WASHINGTON LODGE. 21
been fonned in 1813; 2cl. The renewable password agreed upon by the Unity as a body, in 1815, at first ordained to be changed monthly, but in a year or two was made changeable quarterly; 3d. The Code of General Laws, adopted also in 1815, but not fully enforced for several years; 4th. The " Funeral Fund" system, adopted in 1816, but not made obliga- tory on the lodges; 5th. The three original degrees, with their lectures, which were also adopted in 1816 ; 6th. The old charges as revised in 1817, with a new Past Grand's charge adopted at that time. This information having been imparted, the other members of the lodge were recalled, and were duly instructed in the mode of work practised by the " Independent Order of Odd Fellows " of the Manchester Unity. The first person initiated in accordance with the revised work was a brother Ire- land. The membership, however, did not seem to increase more rapidly by reason of the change of the work. When Bro. Ireland was initiated, about the middle of May, 1819, he was registered as Number 16 ; and when Brother John Boyd deposited his card in the lodge, in September, he was registered as Number 19 ; so that but three additions were made in that time, and Jackson must have been one of the three, as his was the first card the lodge had received on deposit. It may here be remarked, that the Manchester Unity Lodges were the only ones that at that time issued cards, and we have every reason to believe that they expired only in case of emigration. It is uncertain when or for what cause the lodge ceased to meet at Lupton's. Wildey was used to say that Lupton " tried to overreach them," but gave no further explanation. Jackson insisted that he left the lodge at " The Seven Stars " in June, when he went to Philadelphia, and that on his return in September he was informed that no meet- ings had been held during his absence. This is probably nearly if not entirely correct, as a severe epidemic broke out in Baltimore early in July, 1819, which created great alarm, and undoubtedly had such an effect upon the young lodge as to cause a suspension of its meetings. That sterling Odd Fellow, John Boyd, concurs with Jackson in fixing the time when the lodge was removed to Thomas Woodward's in September, 1819. This testimony en- ables us to estimate pretty accurately the progress made by the lodge in the first five months of its existence. To the first five, such accessions had been made as to reach in all the number of
22 AMEBICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
nineteen ; of these, Jackson and Boyd were aflSliated by the deposit of cards, and the remaining twelve were most probably received by initiation. Under all the circumstances, the condi- tion of its affairs would seem to be of no unfavorable augury.
JACKSON THE RIVAL OF WILDEY.
But an element existed among the members which had of necessity to breed a spirit of discord. The ambition of Jackson to supplant Wildey in the esteem of the brotherhood, and to be recognized as the real founder of the lodge, kept him busy in stir- ring up discontent and controversy. To break down Wildey, who had been elected for a second tenn, and to take away his leader- ship, all his energies were directed. He claimed above all others to be the oracle of that code of unwritten law called "Ancient Usage," and exerted much ability in misquoting and distorting it into many shapes to suit his selfish purposes. "What his argu- ments were is scarcely worthy of mention ; one only may be inserted as a specimen. He contended that by ancient law a Noble Grand was not eligible to succeed himself in office. But, to the contrary, it was shown that it had not been unusual for that officer to be retained in his place for years. This special effort was directed towards defeating Wildey, sliould he become a candidate for re-election in October. On the other hand, the majority, composed of the friends of Wildey,. regarded it danger- ous to make any such change ; and although the other party offered as a substitute that most amiable of men, Vice-Grand Welch, they insisted upon Wildey, and again elected him to preside over the lodge. Tliis produced a crisis, the results of which will be detailed in the course of this narrative.
PAST GRAND CROWDKRS MISSION TO ENGLAND.
It was wlien this conflict was at its height that P. G. Crowder of Preston, Lancashire, England, made a tour of the United States, and having reached the (*ity of Baltimore, he accidentally obtained information which led him to visit the infant lodge. His appearance and sympathy at this juncture infused new energy into the minds of the perj)lexed and desponding brother- hood. New hopes were inspired, and new plans were s])eedily projected for future success. At his suggestion, an application
wa8«ia'gton lodge. 23
w as prepared in suitable form to be presented to any competent authority of the Independent Order in England, for a Dispensa- tion admitting the lodge into tlie regular fellowship of the Order. At the suggestion of some one present it was added, that said lodge, when so established, should be clothed with power and authority to extend the benefits of the fraternity " throughout the whole land." This large provision, in which lay the germ of the American system, was so little considered at the time, as to provoke neither comment nor debate, and even the name of its mover is imknown. So little are we cognizant of the planting of those potent seeds tliat have grown to giant oaks and waving forests. On such apparently trivial accidents do many of the great events of history depend. The polished Roman attributed such things to the gods, and could not be persuaded that they exist but by the aid of some divinity. Jews and Christians ascribe them to that inter])()sition of the hand of God which we revere imder the name of Providence. And certainly we may well believe that some invisible and divine influence shed the light which was destined to produce such an illumination of tlie moral finiuiment. l^rother Crowder soon afterwards returned to his country as the willing messenger of the Baltimore brethren. TJpon his arrival at Preston he presented the petition to Duke of York Lo<lge at that place, where he held his membership. Tliis was in accordance with the practi(*e which then prevailed, and that lodge promptly granted the petition, within sixty days after the agent had left Baltimore. This celebrated document reads as follows :
THK OBIGINAL CHARTER FROM DUKE OF YORK^S LODGE.
Xi). Washington Loikji:, 1. PlunbHH I' num.
The Grnml Lodi^c of 3Iaiylainl, aiiul of tlic United States of Anieriea, of the Indeiwiulent Onler of Odd Fellowship. To nil whom it may coneern:
This Warnint or Dtftjunxtition is a free cift from the Duke of York's L(Klgc, of the IndeiK*ndent Onhr of Odd Fellowship, holden at Preston, in the Counly of LnnciiHter, in Old England, lo a number of hrothei-s residing in the C-ity of Biiltimore, to estahlisli ii Lodge at the house; of hn)lher Thomas "NVtKKhvanl, in South Frederick street, in sjiid City : Ilalleil bv the title of *'Xo. 1. Washington Lodge, the Gnind Lo<lge of Mtirifland and of the United SIuUh of Anuricn.^^ Thiit the 8:ud Lo<lge lK*ing the lii*st established in the UnitiHl States, hath the power to gnint a Wnrmnt or l}iKi)i:nmtion to a numlKT of bi'othei's of the lude-
v
24 AMEBICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
pendent Order of Odd Fellowship in any State of the Union, for the enooorage- ment and support of brothers of the said Order when on travel or otherwise. And be it fbrther observed that the said Lodge be not removed from the house of brother Thomas Woodward, so long as five brothers are agreeable to hold the same. In testimony hereof, we have subjoined our names and afiixed the seal of our Lodge, this the first day of February, one thousand eight hundred and twenty.
James MAia>8LEY, O. M, _- John Crowder, P. G.
John Cottam, N. O, , W. Topping, P. O.
[seal.] Geo. Nailor, V. G, ^ Sam'l Pemberton, P. G.
John Eccles, Sec, Geo. Ward, P. G,
John Walmslies, P G, - Geo. Beli^, P. G,
It is very evident that this paper was not wholly prepared in England, but that a draft was made in this country and accompa- nied the petition. The several errors of style and deficiency in expression in portions of the warrant, were the result of defective education in all the parties, and the lack of experience by the Pres- ton Lodge in the issue of such instruments; thus they were passed over as immaterial, or it may be without detection. But the correct and precise manner in which the geographical divi- sions of the country are treated, establishes beyond controversy that it was not solely prepared in England, much less in an. English inland village. The warrant is dated February Ist^ 1820, but did not reach Baltimore until October of the same year, and on the 23d of that month it Mas formally accepted, and the lodge thenceforth regarded itself as duly constituted and began its new career. So slow and uncertain was the transmis- sion of important papers fifty years ago, that it required nearly nine months for the warrant to reach its destination ; the mails could not be trusted, and the package express had not yet been started by Past Grand Hale of New York. Recourse was there- fore had to private hands, as the safest, if not the most expedi- tious mode of transmission. When the document reached the lodge, nearly a year had elapsed since the application had been sent to England.
JOHN YATEs' mission.
In the interim, in the absence of intelligence from Bro. Crow- der, the lodge had determined to avail of another opportunity which had presented itself. Bro. John Yates, a member of the lodge, undertook to visit England on private business, in the early part of October, 1820, and to him was committed an
WASHINGTON LODGE. 25
application for a Dispensation, addressed to the authorities of the Order in Manchester. On the arrival of Yates at Liverpool he managed to have the petition forwarded to Manchester; and according to the printed records of the Manchester Unity, it came before a "special committee," January 7th, 1821, and induced the following action :
^^Hesoloedy That the Washington Lodge, Baltimore, North America, be allowed a dispensation from the Abercrombie Grand Lodge, but the profits thereof to go to the Grand Committee. They are likewise allowed Lecture Books, By-Laws and Articles ; and that John Yates be written to, in answer to the American letters, desiring his attendance at Manchester, from Liverpool, or if he cannot attend, to desire that he will send an answer by return, to know if an oflScer must go to meet him at Liverpool with them ; and that if an officer be deputed, he be cautioned to be as reasonable in his charges as possible, and not at any rate exceed one pound for expenses."
This proceeding is evidence that the Duke of York Lodge had failed to report to the Grand Committee at Manchester, to which it was subordinate, that a warrant had been granted eleven months before to the Washington Lodge at Baltimore ; it can be explained on no other hj^othesis. But the documents from Bome cause failed to reach Bro. Yates, and he returned to Balti- more, where he found the lodge in full operation under the war- rant issued by the Duke of York Lodge. It is presumed, however, that he received information from Bro. Crowder, or some other brother at Preston, that a free Dispensation had already been for- warded to Baltimore. This, in those days of poverty and econ- omy, must have been good news indeed ; and Yates was no doubt glad to abandon his application, and so save some money for his constituents. Thus the long suspense was over, and the lodge was no longer in danger from irregularity; the tie with the mother Order being lawfully and perfectly formed.
THE FINANCES OF THE LODGE.
Daring the first year of the existence of Washington Lodge it had many troubles, in the enumeration of which the first place may be assigned to the lack of money. The ancient practice adopted by it of expending the penny receipts for refreshments for brothers, was the chief cause of weakness. The amounts received
26 AMERICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
for initiation and deposit of cards were too insignificant to become the basis of a permanent or available fund ; for the former did not exceed in any case one dollar, or in the latter twenty-five cents. Meanwhile, calls for assistance increased with the mem- bership, to such an extent as to keep the " WardevbS aar^" con- stantly on the move during the sessions of the lodge ; and this had the effect of frightening away many of the more prudent or less opulent of the members. A change of plan became neces- sary, and that change was made without delay. " The pence " were at once passed into The Strong Box^ as the nucleus of a treasury for times of need. The axe was sent around merely for regular dues, excepting only when, as rarely happened, '^atramp^^ was in attendance for relief, or some extraordinary occasion required it. It was then settled that each member and visitor should be obliged to pay his several bills for refreshments. This step to some extent overcame the difficulty, and was attended with the best of results. It may be proper just here to state, that the "Strong Box" became a part of the lodge-room furniture. It was a substantial chest, well strapped and bound with iron, and very heavily constructed : and as to size in solid measure, from fourteen to sixteen cubic feet ; with three locks of different con- struction, the best that at that period could be procured : they were placed one at each end and tlie other in the middle. The N. G., V. G. and sitting P. G. each had a key of a separate lock, and were held jointly and severally responsible for the safety of the contents. By this precaution all three were required to be present at tlie opening of the strong box. The lodge funds and the more vahiable of the books and papers were deposited here for safekeeping, until it was demonstrated, ])y two or three expe- riences, that as to this treasury, thieves could break in and steal.
THE BENEFIT SYSTEM.
The time when tlie benefit system M'as fully adopted by Washington Lodge is difficult to dcteniiine. It does not seem to have been undeivtood by either Jackson or Boyd when they joined the lodge, and yet they must have known that this was the chief reliaiure and regular practice of the Man(!hester Unity. But it was already in operation, or now went into operation at the change just alluded to. It is believed that the pence were placed in the strong box, not only for safety, but that the money
WASHESGTON LODGE. 27
might be at hand for the payment of the ordinary expenses, and in extending relief to the sick and disabled brothers of the lodge. It was probably in existence before N. G. Wildey left the chair in April, 1820, as he was among those most ready to adopt any idea or plan that seemed to favor the success of tlie enterprise. It may possibly have been promoted by the advice of Brother Crowder during his sojourn, as one of the leading features in the usefulness of the Manchester Unity. If these surmises are cor- rect,'it may even have been partially set on foot during the latter part of 1819 ; and, as was fonuerly the case in Manchester, so at first, the money necessary for the payment of benefits might from time to time have been collected on the AVarden's axe.
WILDEY IS PREFERRED TO JACKSON.
Another source of trouble and anxiety arose from the jarrings of internal discord. As before related, parties had been formed in this little family ; we have already stated that Bro. Jackson had endeavored to supplant N. G. Wildey as the prime mover in the affairs of the Order. The one was the author of the lodge's existence, the other the reformer of its system of operation. At the period of P. G. Crowder s appearance the contest was at its height, and each was supported by zealous and devoted friends. He seemed to be recognized by botli parties as the umpire of this dispute, and tacitly accepted the responsibility. All his eflTorts were at firet directed to effect a compromise ; but they were of no avail, and he at length proceeded to examine into the nature of tlie diflSculty. It was not only to fix the relative merits of the work done by the brothers, but to detennine, and, as it resulted, to confirm finally to one of them the place of the great leader. By singular good fortune he indicated Wildey as the man on whom they should rely for the safety of the enteq>rise. It s(»ems that he refused to consider any otlier question but that of policy, and was irresistibly attracted to Wildey as the coming man ; and few since that time have ever ventured to impugn the wisdom of his decision. Endorsed by Crowder and aided by his friends, Wildey was re-elected N. G. at the election in October.
FRANKLIN LODGE TO SUPERSEDE WASHINGTON J.ODiiK,
Jackson and his most zealous followers were not satisfied, and at once withdrew from Washington Jx)dge and fonned Franklin
28 AMEBICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
Lodge, with a firm resolution to supersede and overthrow the for- mer by the institution of the Order in another form. Jackson^ for himself and friends, prepared an application for a dispensa- tion for Franklin Lodge, and addressed it to the Grand Commit- tee at Manchester. This document was also forwarded by private hands ; but the agent was less trustworthy than either Crowder or Yates, for it did not reach the Grand Committee until June, 1821, some nineteen months after it had been sent. The receipt of this application by the Committee afforded the opportunity to re-open the question, then becoming important, of extending the Order to foreign lands under the auspices of the Manchester Unity. In considering the petition, the incipient organization at Manchester began to assert prerogatives in a manner that had not been dreamed of by the Duke of York Lodge, nor even by the same Committee in the preceding January. It has been believed, and with good reason, that the average Englishman has but little, if any, acquaintance with the geography of the United States; few therefore would be astonished to learn from hiin that Pennsylvania was a city in Philadelphia, or that Maryland was the chief city in the State of Baltimore. In this instance we have exhibited the phenomenon of the then existing Province of Marj'land in which was located the City of Philadelphia. Whatever may have induced the mistake, we are sure that neither Baltimore nor Philadelphia will have much relish for such a doubtful compliment. At all events the Grand Committee had in some manner been informed that the application was from the place whose territory was already occupied, that a Mother Lodge was already in existence there, and thus was led to the conclusion that the prayer of the petitioners could not be granted. But instead of this announcement by them in direct terms, it was couched in a singular resolution then placed upon their record :
" Special Cormaittee held at the Dog and Yolunteer^
Salford, June 21st, 1821.
^^JResolved, That the Washington Lodge, Philadelphia, be acknowledged No. 1, or Grand Lodge of the Province of Mary- land, in the United States of America, and that they be informed that the usage of Odd Fellowship in England has confirmed a law that each Grand Lodge shall have a District of twelve miles, but that should any Grand Lodge assume an unbecoming prerog- ative, we will interfere, if just cause be shown, and grant farther
WASHINGTON LODGE. 29
DiBpensations to the United States, and that the legality (under these restrictions) be confirmed by the Dispensation granted from the Duke of York Lodge, Preston."
Notwithstanding the whole of this proceeding had relation to Washington Lodge, and to none other, so far as words can express a purpose, yet notice was never given to the lodge that such a vote had been taken or resolution passed. But on the 25th of June a copy was made, and forwarded by private hands to Frank- lin Lodge, instead of by the post, by means of which precaution its delivery in Baltimore was fortunately secured. The copy was signed by Isaac Hardman, C. S., and in his proper handwriting a note was appended in the words following: ''The Franklin Lodge is desired to apply to the Washington for dispensation^ <J&c." Hardman's communication came into the possession of Franklin Lodge in the early part of August, 1821, and as Jack- sonj who had instigated the brothers to revolt, had in the mean- time removed from the city, they were no longer disposed to strike for independence ; they therefore consulted the interests of all concerned, and adopted the suggestion they had received from England.
THE COMMrrXEE OF PAST GRANDS.
Washington Lodge, in the interval, had been actively engaged in preparing for every emergency. Its first step had been to organize the Committee of Past Grands, a very important and necessary appendage to the Ancient Order. These were called in as the counsellors of the lodge from the moment that it pos- sessed a sufficient number who were qualified for that purpose. It is presumed that several of those admitted by card were already Past Grands. Both Wildey and Welch had attained that rank in England, and were the only members who had occupied the chair of Noble Grand until July, 1820, so that no other person could have passed that chair prior to October of the same year. But the Committee of Past Grands was in operation as early as August, 1820; from which it may be inferred that at least two, namely, Boyd and Couth, must have entered the lodge as Past Grauds. It is also asserted that Entwisle entered as a Past Grand, but this is denied ; P. G. Sire Kennedy so asserts, but on the contrary Washington Lodge claims that great Odd Fellow as one of its initiates; the lost minutes alone could settle the question.
30 AMEBICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
The origin, nature and oflSce of this Committee do not clearly appear; what is known may be briefly stated. Previous to the organization of Grand Lodges — wliich did not in fact exist in England properly as such, but in a quasi manner only, with the name of "District Committees" — the business of supervising the Order was imperfectly performed by " Conmiittees of Past Grands," called together whenever their services were supposed to be needed. These bodies do not appear to have been in pos- session of any established powers, extent of jurisdiction, or penna- nent officers, and in convention were destitute of regulations other than such as were reflected by the light of " ancient usage.'* Matters of grievance composed the principal concerns submitted to them ; but their decisions were in no case final or operative, but merely advisory, and were adopted or rejected at the option of the parties interested.
THE TWO AMERICAN DEGREES.
In the month last named, Aug. 1820, John Pawson Entwisle^ the ornament of the lodge, took a step of equal importance in another direction. He had prepared, and now submitted to the Committee of Past Grands, a great improvement in the work of the Order. It consisted of the original drafts of the two degrees, then and now designated " Covenant " and '' Remem- brance." The act was as bold as it was successful; the amend- ments were such as to conmiend themselves on the first perusal. The Committee did not hesitate to adopt them ; and being brought into tlie lodge, they were conferred upon the members. This great change was a declaration of entire independence in a mat- ter which was felt to involve imj)ortant consequences. It was the work of one voun^j^ in v(»ars, but in the estimation of his brethren in many things superior to thorn all. It will be found in the sequel, that instead of creating disturbance, these degrees, which had their birth in Baltimore, were afterwards gladly received and adopted in the mother country. This member, who appears for the first time in the narrative, will fill but a small space upon the record. Ilis career was short, and his work was of a nature to be unknown and una])preciated until the secret chapters of the his- tory of his time should be written and i)ul)lished. The very few fragments that remain of his composition well attest his intelli- gence, capacity and cultivation. In the proper place Entwisl©
WASHINGTON LODGE. 31
will again appear, and more particularly when we come to speak of the great trio^ in which he will assume, so far as we can ensure it, the station and dignity to which he, above all othere, was en- titled.
THE PAST GRANDS OF WASHINGTON LODGE BECOME THE GRAND LODGE OF MARYLAND AND OF THE UNITED STATES.
The time was approaching when another step was made in the growing system. It soon became plain to all that the condi- tion of the lodge was anomalous. It was indeed the whole Order in America, but it was composed of incongruous and repugnant elements, and in its details of government was incompetent for the task it had undertaken. It was formed alike of the instructed and uninstructed, and had no rule for the delegation of its author- ity to the wise and able. As a single lodge it was indeed the superior of all others, and the source of their authority. But this was found, on examination, of a nature to destroy its own sanctions, by the manifest injustice which would result from its exercise. The subject became one of serious inquiry. As un'ght have been expected, there was a great diversity of opinion among the membership. On the one side were those who believed in " ancient usage " as against all change, and those who, caring for usage, were unwilling to resign any portion of their power ; and on the other were a numerous class of many shades of opin- ion, but who upon the whole were inclined to the doctrine that the direction of the Order should be assigned to the ablest and most experienced among the membership, that these as a body should be entrusted with the supreme government, and that every new lodge when instituted should in the same manner par- ti(*ipate in the same power, by the selection of such of its mem- bers as were equally worthy of the privilege. This question Mas not settled without a serious contest, and about three months of active canvassing were required to achieve success. The Com- mittee of Past Grands were, in the m(»antime, preparing a plan and educating the minds of the members to receive it. At the termination of their labors, on February 7th, 1S21, they held their latest meeting, when they adopted a series of resolutions on the subject as suitable to be presented for the action of the lodge. This important paper was as follows : ^^ Resolved^ That it is exjuv dient and necessary to separate the legislative from the operative
82 AMERICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
portion of the Order, as well to insure system and uniformity as a greater eflSciency in conducting the business of Odd Fellow- ship. Resolved^ That Washington Lodge, No. 1, be invited to surrender to this body of Past Grands the sole possession of the Charter received by said Lodge from England.**'
These resolutions, big with the fate of the enterprise, were submitted to the lodge in due course at the succeeding meeting. The meeting was stonny and the conflict severe ; but the friends of the measure were in the majority, and it was resolved that the lodge would comply with the request submitted by the commit- tee. The final action, as was usual with the leaders, was not long delayed. On Februaiy 22d, 1S21, a day selected as the anniversary of the birth of Washington, the Committee of Past Grands assembled at the lodge-room in Frederick Street. There were present the five heretofore named, with the addition of P. G. William Larkam. The N. G. of Washington Lodge, No. 1, then made his appearance, and in a fonnal manner surrendered into their hands the warrant received by the lodge from the Duke of York Lodge, Preston, England. He then retired, where- upon the committee proceeded to organize as a Grand Lodge, under the style and title of " The Grand Lodge of Maryland and of the United States." The new body was then put in motion by the installation of the following officei's :
Thomas Wildey, of No. 1, Grand Master Coach-spring Maker.
John P. Entwisle, of No. 1, Dep. G. M., Printer. - Wm. S. Couth, of No. 1, Grand Warden, Currier.
John Welch, of No. 1, G. Secretaiy, House and Ship Painter.
John Boyd, of No. 1, G. Guardian, Mahogany Sawyer.
Wm. Larkam, of No. 1, G. Conductor, Cabinet Maker.
The session being now open, the Grand Lodge proceeded to l^islate, and the first business transacted was the adoption of the following: "Resolved, that a dispensation be presented to Wash- ington Lodge, No. 1, of Maryland, as a subordinate Lodge." Next in order was a scheme of finance for its support. This was aiTanged by imposing a tax of ten per cent, on the gross receipts of subordinate lodges ; the price to a subordinate for a warrant, including the necessary charges and lecture books, was fixed at thirty dollars. Wju^hington Lodge thus resigned its primarj^ and supreme authority into other hands, and was satisfied to become the first of all those subordinate to the supreme power it had
WASHINGTON LODGE. 33
created. As No. 1, in the original starting, it could not forfeit the proud claim and title to rank above all the world as the Mother Lodge of American Odd Fellowship. These rest upon the conclusive basis of the possession of the oldest warrant, or dispensation, received from a legal authority in Europe, and by the lineal descent of Odd Fellowship, as now known in America, in a direct line from this lodge and the lodges that took their existence from it. Franklin Lodge existed in posse^ but was yet barely an experiment in the same direction ; it followed that the first Grand Lodge had but one lodge subject to its jurisdiction. But, as before related, Franklin Lodge, early in August following, received a communication from the Grand Conmiittee of the Manchester Unity, in which it was desired to apply to the ** Washington" for a dispensation. This settled the qut»stion of precedence, and left the whole field open to the newly organized Grand Body. No time was lost, but at the earliest opjx)rtunity this band of brothers made an application for a warrant. This was gladly met in the same spirit. At the session of the Grand Lodge, held on August 22, 1821, this proceeding was liad: "Resolved, that the Grand Lodge receives with entire satisfaction the application of Franklin Lodge, No. 2, and agrees to grant the petition therein contained." ''Resolved, that tiie Grand Tjodge, from and after the date hereof, hails and acknowledges Franklin Lodge, No. 2, as a legal Lodge of I. O. Fellows, and that its dispensation shall be dated September 5th, 1821."
It will be ol>served that the l^al existence of the lodge, prior to this action, wiis entirely repudiated. But this fact was con- ceded, and gave no cause for complaint. Franklin Lodge, No. 2, was instituted under these resolutions on the otli of September following, and so became the second subordinate. The old jealousy had died out, and the utmost hannony now sul)sisted between them. That sentiment has ever since ])revaiied, and each has endeavored to excel the other in mutual kindness, and in sup- porting the dignity and importance of the Grand Lodge and its great successor. It may be proper here to mention, that at the next session, held on November 22, 1821, a committtH} re{X)rted, and after due consideration a constitution was adopted, being the first constitution of a Grand Tx)dge known to the Order. Heretofore this class of bodies, by whatever nanui distinguished, whether of Grand Lodge or Grand Committee, had been gov- 3
34 AMEKICAA' ODD FELLOWSHIP.
emed Bolely by "ancient usage." Even the great power or central authority at Manchester was still groping its way by the dim light of uncertain traditions, its lack of system keeping it busy in finding or manufacturing precedents to meet new cases. It was not until 1822 that the Manchester Unity began to organize an "Annual Movable Committee" on a broad basis, when a few very incongruous and insufficient resolutions were agreed to as a general code for the government of the Order at large by the said committee. But the infant " Grand Lodge of Maryland and of the United States " — for that was now the style of the new head of the Order — no doubt inspired by the political forms of the country, boldly adopted a written constitution, containing twenty articles, for its own government and that of the lodges under its jurisdiction. This as a whole is missing, and has never been found.
Washington Lodge continued to hold its meetings at the house of Woodward, from September, 1811), until January, 1822, when an unfortunate event made it necessary for the house to be closed. This occurrence was of such a nature as to mortify and disgust the members, and cause the weak to falter or fall oif. The effect upon the public might have been greater if the lodge had had any prominence, but it was unknown, and the fact made little or no impression ; but the closing of the house turned the Order into the street, and put it again in motion to find a shelter. Tlie Grand Lodge had also held its sessions at the same place until the removal of Washington Lodge. The last important business transacted there was the formal presentation to Washington and Franklin Lodges of their dispensations. The warrant had been granted to Washington Lodge, Tso. 1, on February 22, 1821, but no form for the drafting of such an instrument had been devised, and the inexperience of the officers and membership made delay a necessity. The proceedings of 22d of August preceding seem to imply that they were awaiting instructions from England, although three Grand Officers were directed "to draft the dis- pensations" for the two lodges. The Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master, and Grand Warden, therefore reported a form, which was adopted December 19, 1821, and ordered to be printed. On the 9th of January, 1822, the Grand Committee met, filled up the dispensations, and caused them to be signed and sealed and the colors to be appended. Their delivery took place at as
WASHINGTON LODGE. 35
early a day as possible, and was accompanied with due form and ceremony.
CHASTER OF WASHINGTON LODGE, NO. 1., O. I. O. F.
Order of Independent Odd Fellows.
To whom it may concern :
The Grand Lodge of Maryland, by authority of a Grand Charter granted from the Grand Lodge of the United States, held in the City of Baltimore, State of Maryland, doth hereby grant
This Warrant or Dispensation
To a number of brothers of the Order of Independent Odd Fellows, residing in the City of Baltimore, in the State of Mary- land, to establish a Lodge in any convenient place, to be hailed by the title of the Washington Lodge, No. 1, for the encourage- ment and support of brothers of the said Order when on travel, or otherwise. And the said Washington Lodge being duly formed, is hereby authorized and empowered to initiate into the mysteries of said Order, any person or persons duly proix)sed and approved according to the law of Odd Fellows, and to administer to these Brothers all the privileges and benefits arising therefrom, and to enact by-laws for the government of their lodge ; Pro- vided alwaysy that the Washington Lodge, No. 1, do act ac- cording to the order and in con] unction with and obedience to the Grand Lodge, adhering to and supporting the articles, charges and d^ees delivered with this dispensation ; and in default thereof, this Warrant or Dispensation may be suspended or taken away, at the discretion of the Grand I^ge ; and further, the Grand Lodge (in consideration of the due perfbrnianee of the above) do bind themselves to repair all damage or destruction of the Dispensation, Charges or Dc^grees, whether bv fire or other accident ; provided^ sufficient proof be given, and there is no ill^al concealment or wilful destnuition of the same. And the Grand Lodge will support the Washington Lodjje, No. 1, in the exercise of their duty, and in the ]>rivileges ana lionors of the Order. In wtfness whereof, we have displayed the colors and subscribed our names, and affixed the seal of the Grand Lodge of Maryland and of the United States, this 22d day of February, Anno Domini one thousand eight hundred and twenty-one.
Thos. Wildey, G. M. John Welch, G. S.
[seal] J. P. Entwisle, D. G. M. John Boyd, G, G.
Wm. S. Coath, G. ir. .. EzEKiEL Wilson, G. C\
There seems to be some discrepancy as to the order of time as regards one of the signatures appended to the warrant. Ezekiel
36 AMEBIOAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
Wilson was a member of Franklin Lodge, and was not admitted a member in the Grand Lodge until November 22, 1821, nine months after the charter was granted. William Larkam was present as Grand Conductor at the meeting of the Grand Com- mittee in 1822, when the warrants were signed, and yet the name of Wilson appears on the instrument as Grand Conductor, an office he had never held. To make it more intricate, the proceedings of the Grand Lodge of February 22, 1822, report him as suspended from the Order for twelve months and a day. He, however, afterwards attained to the office of Grand Master ; he was installed as such, January 15, 1830.
We have now reached a point at which we may stop and consider many collateral matters which belong to this period. The raw material has now been woven into a new and usefiil pattern, which needs but a few more improvements to impress with colors of beauty and utility. In a word, order is slowly emerging from the confused elements, and we see a promise upon which men may repose in confidence, looking for a brighter day. The whole Order consists, indeed, of but two subordinate lodges, with a handful of members ; and the Supreme Body of not more than six or seven — about the number necessary for filling the chairs. Here we leave them for a time, toiling on in obscurity as an association of very ordinary persons : their tone, indeed, is somewhat lofty, but that is not uncommon among "socials" and those given to the cheerful inspirations of the public-house; there is much appearance of form and dignity, but one might well smile, as spectator of one solitary private member on the floor, of a body composed of six highly decorated officers, each in grave position, and wonder at the business which seems rather to be attempted than d<me at such a meeting. But we shall meet them again, and find that there was indeed a something among them of deep import to the world; strange things may yet come to pass, and unborn generations may rise to do them honor and call them blessed. We shall see. This was the beginning of the Grand Lodge of Maryland and of the United States.
THE SIGN OF THE SEVEN STARS.
In order that we may comprehend the causes that were at work to produce the results we have set forth, a retrospect of
WASHINGTON LODGE. 37
several years becomes necessary. An institution whose object is continuity, must have a permanent location. A change of residence is never more injurious than .when it befalls a public institution, and the more so if that institution looks to success by constant intercourse with the public. This was in one sense settled by the limitation, in the first charter, to an ordinary or drinking saloon; but such a provision, from its nature, could only be transitory. It follows that no struggles were more severe than those which were made for a " local habitation," and none were more productive of results. We have seen that the first meetings were held on the south side of Second Street, between Frederick Street and Market Space, at the sign of the Seven Stars. The first Host was William Lupton. The house had two stories and an attic, and was in a part of the city mostly occupied by oyster-cellars and saloons ; as very respectable restaurants were at that time, and for many years afterwards, in basements, called cellars, it is to be presumed that Lupton kept a good house. Such houses had a bar, and furnished their customers with the famous Baltimore oystei's. The use of this house by Washington Lodge must have consisted of the occupation of an upper room, furnished with benches and several rush-bottom chairs. There was a rude table, and a number of tin sconces garnished with candles hung around the walls. A few coarse prints of sea-fights and domestic animals, with pictures of Washington, Lafayette, and other great men of the Revolution, were thought to add greatly to the effect. The privacy could only have been secured by a locked door, and the conduct of secret work in whispers; but, as the work was of the most meagre description, it could be speedily despatched. We may here state that the signs of such houses were the ordinary swing- ing sign, yet to be found in many parts of the country.
THE THREE LOGGERHEADS.
It has been stated that the lodge was removed from Lupton's to Woodward's, on Frederick Street, in the month of September, 1819. A more dismal, out of the way place than the Three T^oggerheads could scarcely have been selected, it being near the docks, where sailors and wharf-loungers were wont to assemble, and was mostly given up to the occupancy of boarding-houses for sailors. But it was here that Washington Lodge and the
38 AMEBICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
Order first grew into importance. Here was received the first warrant ever granted to a lodge in the United States, from the Order in the mother country, to conduct the business of Odd Fellowship. Here tlie Covenant and Remembrance D^rees were first promulgated and first conferred. Here the Grand Lodge of Maryland and of the United States was instituted and held its first sessions. Here the Grand Lodge Degree was adopted and first used, and here the Golden Rule Degree was first conferred in America. Ilere Washington Lodge received its second charter, the warrant issued by the newly organized Grand Lodge ; in fact, nearly all of the main features which mark the progress of the Order in that early day, date from the period when the whole of American Odd Fellowsliip w^as confined to " The Tliree Loggerheads." Headquarters w^ere at Woodward's from September, 1819, until January, 1822, when a sudden removal became necessary.
STTLLIIOUSE LANE.
Much embarrassment followed, as no suitable place could readily be obtained ; but Wildey came forward and proffered a room in his private dwelling, in " Stillhouse Lane," for the use of both Washington Lodge and the Grand Lodge. The offer was accepted, and the lodges continued to meet there until better accommodations were secured. Here everythinij: was in confu- sion, for want of those appropriate arrangements which could not be procured in a private house, especially in one so small and con- tracted in its appointments as this dwelling. Very little business could possibly be transacted there, in anything like a decorous manner; and indeed it is almost certain that not a single initia- tion took place in that house during their stay, a period of at least four months. Among the eflbrts made to secure a suitable place, it is related that Bro. Wildey arranged with a woman doing business on Bridge (now Gay) Street, to occupy the second floor, over her store ; but so soon as the workmen began putting the premises in suitable condition for lodge use, her landlord became greatly excited ; he was in sympathy with the prevailing prejudice of that day against the Order, and expected nothing but riot and disorder. His threats to turn her out of possession alarmed her, and for the sake of peace the contract was aban- doned. After many failures a place was secured, and the lodges
WASHINGTON LODGE. 39
left the abode of Wildey for better lodgings. Bro. Wildey, for fiome reason, would never convei'se on the subject of this removal; but Bro. Boyd always referred to it in the most handsome man- ner, regarding it as affording the strongest evidence of Wildey's disinterested love for the Order. Wildey, he said, had females in his family, and the meetings were to them a fruitful source of inconvenience and embarrassment ; as the men began to assemble, the women would go out and stay with the neighbors until the meeting was over; that this w^as always the case, and in fact had the effect of turning his household out of doors for the sake of the cause.
MATTHEW BLAKELEY's PUBLIC-HOUSE.
The new situation was a great improvement; the room selected was on the second floor of a large house, and was com- fortably and conveniently arranged. There was no lack of any- thing that in those days was thought necessary for lodge work or for lodge use ; mine host was on hand, and was ready to extend with promptness the usual facilities to the brothers, and all things wore a more cheerful aspect. This was at Matthew Blake- ley's public-house, on the northeast comer of Mai-sh Market Space and Water (now Lombard) Street. The place is beyond dispute, but the time of this change is not so certain. After hav- ing consulted all the conflicting testimony, growing out of defects of memory in the witnesses, and compared it with admitted facts and circumstances, it seems proper to fix the time at about May, 1822. The following statement, by P. G. Sire Kennedy, is of interest in this connection: "A few weeks before the death of P. G. John Boyd, in a conversation with P. G. M. Mathiot and the writer, he said the lodge remained at Wildey's dwelling for several months, he thought at least six months from the time it left Woodward's, in January, 1S22. Mi*s. Eliza J. Adams, widow of Brother Wm. Adams, who, on April 1st, 1823, suc- ceeded Blakeley as host of the lodge, says the lodge was brought to Blakeley's about a year before her husband took j)ossession of the place. P. G. SecTetary Fennell thinks he was initiated in 1821, but knows the ceremony took place at the Market Space room. Of course Fennell is incorrect in time, as at that period the lodge was still in session at Woodward's, and in addition he disavows all knowledge of the meetings being held
40 AMERICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
at either Woodward's or at Wildey 's dwelling. When Fennoll was initiated he was registered as Ko. 122, and when Mathiot was initiated he was registered as No. 177, presenting a difference of fifty-five members between them ; which, at the rate of increase then existing, would require nearly a year to make it np. And in view of Mathiot being somewhat active as a member in the summer of 1823, Fennell must have been initiated abont May,
1822. From all of which it may be deduced that the lodge reached Market Space early in May, 1822."
CONDITION OF THE ORDER IN MAY, 1822.
It is difficult to determine with certaintv the number of the membership at this time. We may at least try to estimate it by some instances that were well attested at that period. Fennell was sure that he was one of the early admissions after the removal, and he stood on the register as Number 122; it follows that the whole number admitted by initiation and affilia- tion from the 2f)th of April, 1S19, until this time, a period of about three years, was equal to his number, say one hundred and twentv-two. But we must deduct from these the deaths and the withdrawals, as well as those suspended and expelled. These can only be obtained by comparison of this with other periods of the historj' ; after doing this, we have concluded that there should be a reduction on gross figures of about one-third for three years. On this basis we have fixed the net membership of Washington Lodge, at the time designated, at about eighty. At the same time we incline to think that our rule for the enumera- tion would have a tendency to increase rather than to diminish the result ; this is made very probable, because the vestiges of extant records indicate a much freer use of the power of expul sion then than has since been exercised; this vigilance an<? severity was, no doubt, greatly needed in sifting the mixed elenu^nts that were brought together under such novel conditiouf^ The meetings of the lodge at this place inaugurated a marked and important progress. It was to Blakelcy's that in January
1823, Brother James Wilson came as a visitor, and was received in the most cordial manner by the lodge and the members. He claimed to belong to a lodge of Odd Fellows at Boston, Massa- chusetts, and he was recognized as a brother. Every attention
WASHI19GTON LODGE. 41
in their power was paid to him ; not content with conlerring the three degrees of the Manchester Unity, they also gave him the intennediate degrees that had been originated in Maryland. These fraternal attentions made a profound impression upon Wilson; for, on his return to Boston, he made a report in every way favorable of what he had seen and learned in Balti- more. This was not confined to his personal treatment ; but he also gave such an account of the great superiority of the condition of the brethren in the latter city, as to incline his associates to cultivate the most intimate relations with them. He explained to them the character of the authority which had been vested in the Order at Baltimore for extending the fraternity all over the country ; information appealing to them most forcibly, as a bond of a widespread \mity for the common good. These representa- tions induced ''Massachusetts Lodge,'' on March 28, 1823, to make application for a dispensation to be endowed with Grand Lodge powers in and for the State of Massachusetts. Nothing was known by these brethren of the resignation of its charter by Wasliington Lodge, and the application for the dispensation was accordingly made to it; but this did not change the result. Its successors, having the charter, pro- ceeded at once to act upon the i>etition. At a session held on April 13, 1823, a disjx^nsation was granted to "Massachusetts Lodge, No. 1," and another to the Past Grands of that Lodge for the "Grand Lodge of Massachusetts"; thus covering the whole ground, instead of complying literally with the wishes of the applicants. This action was deemed to be of such moment, that G. M. Wildey was deputed to convey the warrants to Boston, and to present them to the brothers in an acceptable manner. This duty he peHbrmcd in the month of June following. Thus, the performance of the rites of friendship and hospitality to a strange brother secured the adhesion of Massachusetts, but was also the indirect, if not the immediate cause which induced other lodgeSj then existing in an irregular manner at New York and Philadelphia, to recognize the authority of the "Grand Lodge of Maryland and of the United States"; a result Avhich caused a new union, in the organization of a Sovereign and Representative Grand Lodge of the United States; substantially the same body which has ever since guided the eventful career of the now mighty system of American Odd Fellowship.
42 AMEBICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
But we have been led away from the particular purposes of this chapter, which are not to relate that which is generally known, but those things which were the undercurrent, so to speak, which have come down to us mostly by tradition, and wliich have no record but in these pages. The extension of the system to Bos- ton has been briefly sketched, more with the object of relating the incident that caused it, than the extension itself; the particu- lars attending upon that act, including the pilgrimage of Wildey to the land of steady habits, and his good fortune by the way, will be reserved for the next chapter. We shall now enter our ancient lodge-rooms, and examine into those habits of the early members which, from tlieir effects upon society in general, must have been potent in their influence upon the struggling Order.
THE CONVIVIAL FEATURE.
The drinking of beer as a beverage seems to have been carried to England by its Saxon conqueroi-s, as one of the most healthful and delightful of the habits of the fatherland. Its very name is of Teutonic origin ; and although we Iiave information of such drinks so far back as ancient Egypt, yet a more modern authority, Tacitus, assures us that it was in common use with the Germans of his time. Be that as it may, the habit has been so long and thoroughly impressed upon the people of England, as to cause it to be recognized as a sort of popular institution. Indeed, at cer- tain periods and under peculiar circumstances of national history, fermented malt liquors seem to have supplied large masses of its population with both victuals and drink, so that they in time came to be considered as necessaries of life. Notwithstanding all that litis been said and sung of the '" Roast Beef of Old Eng- land," beer, for the most part, has supplied its place for six days in the week, and, we may add, the seventh also. It does not, therefore, suqirise any one to find that, in the earliest organization of Odd Fellowship of which tradition makes any mention, beer drinking was a necessary part of the proceedings. Such also has been the case with those who have succeeded ; for, in accordance with the habits of the English pcM>j)le, the same ])ractice has con- tinued in all branches of the Order in that country, with scarcely an exception, until the i)rcsent day. When those people emi- grated, like pious ^"Eneas, they carried with them their household gods; for instance, their Odd Fellowship, and with it the time-
WASHINGTON LODGE. 43
honored usage of the drinking of beer, as one of its most indis- l)ensable features. As such persons formed new associations tliey imparted the habit, and as such associations became American, beer, in many instances, gave place to more popular beverages. Spirituous liquors soon began to supplant the beer ; and what was before comparatively an innocent indulgence, became a serious and growing evil. Such was the condition of every lodge in the summer of 1823.
THE MARYLAND REFORM.
But another element had, in the meantime, begun to appear, and to bring with it habits more in unison with the strange com- munity into which they had come. The Order had found advo- cates among the native population, who were gradually being drawn to examine its claims; many of whom, by this time, were so well satisfied as to enter the lodges, and became able and influ- ential in their counsels. The novelty and excitement of the neo- phytes soon began to wear off, and with them, the veneration that at first attached to many of the usages. These new men were naturally anxious to impress the moral habits of the locality wpon those who preferred othei-s of a foreign and different nature. One of the first usages brought in question, was that of the presence of liquor in the lodge-room during the sessions. This abuse, as 18 usual with old habits, could not easily be reformed. But a crusade was set on foot for its extirpation, by a young member of Wasliington Lodge, which, after many contests and successive defeats, was at last successful ; a change so vital as eventually to revolutionize the moral character of the American Order, and which was afterwards known as the "Maryland Rkfokm." Augustus Mathiot, then a member of but a few months' standing, had been very badly treated by another society in which lie had been proposed for membei*ship, whore his application had been rejected on the sole groimd that he wjus a member of '^ that Bac- chanalian Club of Odd Fellows."' He was notified in writing that if he would withdraw from the Odd Fellows, he would gladly be received among them. But young Mathiot was a man of fine intelligence, and undei-stood the situation too well to accept the proposition, and he returned them an answ(T in which he indig- nantly spumed their ofler. But much as he loved the Order, lie could not shut his eyes to the fact that it had given cause tor com-
44 AHEBICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
plaint, and he was deeply wounded at being singled out to suSer for hiH brethren in a matter which he could neither approve nor defend. Those who knew Bro. Mathiot were aware of his extreme sensibility to anything which affected his reputation with the public. He did not hesitate a moment, but brought the facts at once to the attention of his lodge ; having told his grievance, he changed their indignation to sympathy, by relating the sacrifice he had made and his election never to desert his brethren. But he was induced to go further, and expostulated against the continuance of a practice which exposed them to insult, and exhorted them earnestly to the observance of a stricter regard for public opinion. Hurried on by the impulse, he wrote and offered the following: " Resolved, That this lodge will hereafter abolish the use of liquor of any kind in the Lodge Room." The boldness and suddenness of the movement w^as so unexpected, and the feeling for Mathiot so strong, that they did not hesitate to act at once upon it. A very feeble opposition was exhibited ; and, strange to say, when the vote was taken, it was very nearly unanimous for its adop- tion. The lesson taught by this proceeding is honorable to all concerned. The old members were wedded to a practice coeval with the Order and part of its regular " usage." It had become so much a part of the system as to seem a necessity. No voice had ever been heard, before that night, to utter a word of censure of this indispensable appendage ; but a sense of their responsibil- ity, so strikingly presented, discovered the fact that the principles were gradually gaining an ascendancy, at the expense of the prac- tices. It did not accomplish much at the time, but every one could see, in this action, that a total reformation of Lodge convivi- ality was only delayed, and w-as something that nmst at length prevail.
THE RIGHTS OF A HOST.
But even this small step r'ould not at once be effected, under the terms of the agreement with the landlord of the premises. Heretofore a Host w as regarded as an official personage of the highest rank and influence, and his rights as landlord had been more sa<*redly respec*ted than any other in the w^hole range of Odd Fellowship. It cannot be doubted that in early times, warrants were nominally issued to lodges, but were designed more for the protection of the landlord and the promotion of his
LODGE ROOM AT THE THREE LOGGERHEADS.
SEPTEMBER 1810 TO JANUARY JS22.
WASHINGTON LODGE. 45
buBiness than for any other pni-pose. They all invariably con- tained the same clause found in the Duke of York's Lodge Charter to Washington Lodge, No. 1, viz :
"And be it further observed, tluit the said Lodge be not removed from the house of Brotlier Thomas Woodward, so long as five brothers are agreeable to hold the same."
This clause gave the Host a proprietary right in the lodge, not to be overcome by a majority vote ; in addition, it became his personal property in this, that so long as four others agreed with him to that end, the lodge was forced to follow him to every new location where fortune or inclination might lead him. Tliis was submitted to, somewhat ungraciously, and the feeling on the subject was not improved by the fact that a change had been made from Woodward's, under circumstances to show that great injury might ensue from such a relation; so that when the dispensation was presented by the Grand Lodge of Marv^land to Washington Lodge, it was made to read: "To establish a Lodge in any c(ynv€nient place ^ to be hailed by the title of the Washington Lodge, No. 1." In the case of Brother Mathiot's resolution, nothing could be done without a change in the place of meeting; for Brother Adams, the Host, who succeeded Blakeley, looked upon the whole proceeding as tending to lessen his importance and injure his business ; hence, he very naturally felt that he was selected for pei'sonal insult on the part of the lodge. He therefore insisted on such of his rights as were usual, even when the liquor was absent from the room, and so, during that part of the business known as "Harmony," continued to solicit custom, and to bring into the lodge-room such refresh- ments as visitor or membere might desire. 1*. G. Sire Kennedy, a short time before his death, made this note on the subject : "Mrs. Eliza J. Adams, the widow of Host William Adams, still resides in the same house in which the lodge met in 1823, and within the past year, in a convei*sation with the writer and Brother Mathiot, she said that she received the information of the vote with much pleasure, as she had previously told her husband it was a pity that a society that had so mu(^h in its favor should spoil it all by indulging in drink." Past Grand Master Mathiot continued his membei'ship in AVashington Tx)dge, and his residence in Baltimore, until his death on the 12th day of July, 1872. He will have due notice of the most honorable
46 AMERICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
kind, in tlie proper place in this volume, among the loading spirits of the Order. It is well to note, in this (connection, that Mathiot had been anticipated by the Grand Lodge of Marj'land and of the United States, which in its Constitution adopted April 13, 1823, placed this paragraph :
" Art. II. No refreshments shall be allowed in the Lodge lioom during its session."
But we have no reason to believe that it was made known to the lodges in any way ; certainly it was not printed, and no means Avere devised for the circulation of the instrument of which it was a part. But it clearly indicates that Boyd, who served on the committee with AVildev and Larkam, and who no doubt prepared tlie paper, was fully alive to the exigencies of the future. True, the proliibition applied only to the sessions of the (Trand Lodge; but it is memorable as the first known instance on record, of a restriction of the kind having had an existence in the Order. It is claimed, but we cannot say upon what evidence, that it was sent to the Manclie^ter Unity, and caused a sli<>:ht sensation. At the session held bv the "Man- Chester Movable Committee," at Ilawley, IStalfordshire, on May 19, 1823, they took this action :
"liesolved, that no liquor be allowed in the Committee Kooni before dinner."
Tlie movement was scarcely perceptible, and never came to anything, and may ratlicr indeed be put down as something accidental and of no serious meaning. Mo further step by that body has ever been taken, although great efforts have been made with that object. One may judge how they are subjugated to the " old usai^e " bv a late occurrence. At the session of the "Annual Movable Conmiittee," held at Lancaster on May 20, 1872, a resolution was introduced to the effect, " that no liquor be allowed during the sittings of this meeting"; but an over- whelming majority suppressed it, and in the excitement pro- duced by such a daring proposal a motion like to have prevailed for the repeal of the resolution of 1823.
But, to return to Brother "Mathiot's resolution and the results that shortly after followed. It so happened that the Masonic Hall, erected l)y that body, was soon after completed, or nearly so, and lodges of that fraternity began to remove to its better acconmiodations on St. Paul's Lane, in a central part of the
WASHINGTON LODGE. 47
city. By this means several meeting rooms formerly occupied by them became vacant. A committee was at once appointed to engage and appropriately fit up one of these rooms. The com- mittee, of which Brother Boyd was chairman, selected a room in a locality where no liquor was sold. It was in tlie second story of an extensive clothing store, at the intersection of Cheapside, Calvert and Water Streets. With great expedition it was suitably fitted up for their uses, and the whole Order in Balti- more took immediate possession ; the Order, of course, consisting only of Washington and Franklin Ix>dges. But before the lodges were settled in the place, it was discovered that a member of the Order had obtained possession of a store on Calvert Street, and was fitting it up as a drinking place. This discovery caused a change in the original plan, which was to have a drinking place on the premises, but at a distance from the lodge-room. So, to disappoint the brother, and put a stop to his business, they hit on the expedient of fitting up an apartment connected with the anteroom, where all demands for refreshments could be supplied. It was gravely claimed at the time, that this was not in violation of the resolution, as they were not spread out in open lodge-room. This arrangement checkmated the brother, but did not do much for temperance. A brother who furnishes these items, says, naively enough : " Under these circumstan<;€8 the Lodge became reconciled to the arrangement^'* We should think tio. A more bungling attempt at reformation was never made. The lodge now became its oa^ti landlord, and actually hired a Host and bought the stock, so that all the profits went into the lodge treasury. This was reform " with a vengeance," and much ftolid satisfaction was no doubt felt that the lodge was now both landlord and customer. It was with many a smile that they greeted the young brother who had rid them of a Host. Thus Mathiot's reform, which was theoretically a great success, by a single stroke of rather humorous strategy became a practical failure.
FRANKLIN LODGE, NO. 2, IN 1823.
But we return to Franklin Lodge, No. 2, which for some time occupied the same room with the Washington Ix)dge at Host Adams'. According to the then operative theory, nothing less than an extreme necessity could excuse it ; and it must have
48 AMERICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
been regarded by every one at the time, as a gross innovation on *' ancient usage"; for that code allowed no two lodges to be located in the same neighborhood, to say nothing of the same house. But Franklin Lodge had also been unfortunate in its place of meeting ; never keeping any location, but holding its sessions first in one public-house and then in another, until by some accident, one cannot say how, it was found in tlie early part of 1 823, occupant of the same room with Washington Lodge. At this jieriod there was a prosperous turn to its affairs, for it is estimated that it began to number about the same as Washington Lod^e. This was the judgment of one who saw it in procession at the funeral of a member of that lodge in the spring of 1823. As this Avas the fii'st public funeral of the kind in tliis country, of whicli Avc have any knowledge, we furnish its description from an eye-witness well able to describe it. The story is told by Past Grand Sire Kennedy.
FIKST PUBLIC ODD FELLOw's FUNEKAL.
"In the early spring of 1823, Andrew Wark, a member of Franklin Lodge, Tso. 2, while engaged in superintending a shad fishery on the shore of Chesapeake bay, was accidentally knocked overboard by the boom of his vessel and drowned. His body was found, and brought for interment to his home in Baltimore, on Bridge (Oay) Street, near High. On the day of the funeral, the widow infonned the writer that her husband would be buried at night, as the society of which he was a member buried its dead at midnight. The time fixed for the funeral was ten o'clock P. M., Avhen, with several friends, we were punctually present The lodge, however, did not appear so early ; but it was there in ample time, with a band of six or seven pieces, which inarched in front. The procession came to view as a great glare of light as it was crossing the bridge, illuminating the street through the middle of which it was passing. To an unpracticed eye the pro- cession seemed to be in the utmost disorder, as tlie column of sev- enty or eighty men took position in front of the late domicile of the deceased. The chief officer, probably the mai-shal, was the only person of the party of whom we had any knowledge ; Eze- kiel C. Gill, a trunk-maker, was well known to us, but not favor- ably. He was very busy up and down the line, keeping the column in order, as we foolishly supposed. But that was our mistake.
WASHINGTON UUDGK, 4^
We did not know that good order in those ranks consisted in pre- serving the sections in such a wav as to have not more than jiet- files in each, and in no case to have an ec^n uuttJnr of files in a section. Bv such an arramreuient, ever\bodv ii»uld readilv see that they were Odd Fellows, Marshal Gill was kept hard at work preserving the equipoise of the sections : that is, a front of one^ three or Jice files. Officers and member? were in appropri- ate lodge costume ; gowns, caps, sashes, coUai^ and aprons, of white, black, blue and scarlet color*. Tlie gowns, as a general thing, had been made to fit much larger men ; the same was true of the caps, which were fashioned after the fonns of crowns and coronets. Each officer lx»re the emblem of his oflice in his hand. Six or seven of the members were in deep mourning, and occu- pied the center of the crowd. These were enveloped in narrow strips of black muslin or crape, wliich hung from their hats ahnost to the ground. They lx»re black rods, eight or ten feet long, sur- mounted by spheres of some kind; the splieres covered with black cloth, with black streamers, three or four feet long, j)endant. Every person not provided with an oflicial enibhMii of some sort, bore a flaming torch. Some of the torches we recognized as belonging to a fire company in the neighlx)rho<Hl ; otluTs of them were extemporized for the oc'casion : many of the latter resembled the rope torches said to have been used by the ancients on sim- ilar occasions. At eleven o'clock P. Af. the coftiu was brouirht forth and placed in a hearse, which then took position in the cen- ter of the column ; the bearers of the black spheres surrounded the hearse, as if acting as pall-bearers. The line of marcli was then taken up, with solemn music and slow steps, toward the churchyard ; the distance of half or three-quarters of a mile was accomplished a few minutes before midnight. The remains were then silently lowered into the grave ; not a word was spoken ; but each member then threw one or two shovelfuls of earth ujK)n the coffin, until the grave was filled up. The procession n^formed its disordered ranks, the mutes, as before, in the center, and departed as it came."
COLUMBIA LODGE, NO. 3.
But we return to the narrative. The active progress of the Order in 1823, was evinced by the organization of a third lodgt? in Baltimore. Several members of Franklin Lodge, Xo. ii, resid- 4
60 AMERICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
ing in tlie eastern portion of the city, were not pleased with the new lodge location, regarding it as remote and inconvenient. They therefore deteniiined, if they could procure suitable accom- modations in " Old Town," to open a lodge in that part of the city. These tliey were enabled to procure, through the assistance of G. M. Wildey. The following names appear in the applica- tion for a cliarter : P. G. Thomas Scotchbum, P. V. G. Samuel Bickley, and brothers Saunders, Stew^ard, TumbuU, Moore and Winn, all of Franklin Lodge. The petition asks that the lodge may be styled " Columbia Lodge, No. 3," and may be allowed to meet on AVednesday nights. The grant was made as requested^ at a session of the Grand Lodge held November 22d, 1823, and the lodge was organized on December 17th, 1823, at Colvin'a Stone Tavern. The records of the lodge show that the event was one of no small importance. All the Grand Officers were present : G. M. Thomas Wildey, D. G. M. John Welch, G. W^ Thomas Mitchell, G. Sec'y John P. Entwisle, A. G. Sec'y Maur- ice Fennel 1, G. C. Charles Common, G. G. j}7*o tem.j P. G. John Nelson, and Past Grands Williams and Bannister, N. G. Havins^ of AVashington Lodge, and N. G. Poach, of Franklin Lodge^ "together with a very respectable and numerous collection of brotlu'i-s of the Order." In fact, it was a gala occasion, which had drawn toi;*(4her what was substantially the whole Order in Balti- more. Aft(*r the lodge had been formally instituted, by virtue of a six'c-itil resolution of the Grand Lodge, the Grand Officers retained the chairs and received proposals for membership. Re- ports were made and four candidates were unanimously elected ; wluTcupon Thomas Charters and Joshua Vansant " were brought forward and duly made." The lodge then proceeded to the elec- tion of olficrers, when the following named were elected " without 0])position," and were duly installed: P. G. Scotchbum, N. G.; Brother Steward, V. G.; and P. V. G. Bickley, Secretary. The following appointed officers were then also installed: Brother Moore, Warden ; Bro. Vansant, Conductor ; Bro. Saunders, Guar- dian ; Bro. Turnbull, P. IT. S. of N. G., and Bro. Charters, R. H. S. of Y. G. It will strike the reader, especially if he be of Mary- land, or a member of the Grand Lodge of the United Sates, that the new lodge was fortunate indeed in one of its initiates. That must have been the opinion of the Noble Grand when young Yansant was chosen as the Conductor. But that preference waft
WASH^GTON LODGE. 51
only indicative of the fact that he was a youth of promise; for he was poor and friendless, and was beginning life at the bottom of the ladder. He had just come of age ; a humble mechanic, with no prospect before him of rising above the level of the toil- ing masses. Plunging into the wide world, he disappears from our gaze, and even for a time from the Order. But this was owing to the res angu^ta doiai of a young husband and father just entering upon the responsible duties of domestic life. Soon he will be seen emerging from his retirement, a successful work- man, taking place among his fellows, and doing manly and effec- tive service for his lodge and the Order. Henceforth he devotes himself to the cause, as one who never tires in welldoing. A born leader, he makes himself felt in all directions, and as a representative man of the people, is second to none in winning the public favor for the Order in the place of its nativity. By superior talent and vigor he rises to fill high places in the State, sitting in and sometimes presiding over a convention to revise its Constitution, and devising and superintending many of the greatest institutions of his city, with an integrity and capa- ctity that gained foi* him the popular sobriquet of "Honest Joshua." In the meanwhile he serves a term in the Congress of the United States, when to do so was a badge of honor ; and now, after three-score yeai's and ten of active life, we see him retiring with ap])lause from his second term as Mayor of the great city of liis residence. In this tribute to a Past Grand Master and Past Grand Patriarch and Past Grand Representative to the Congress of the Order, one may recognize the well-known Grand Treasurer of the Grand liOdgc of the United States, who has long been one of its most tiiisted and honored officere. Public duty and per- sonal worth, as well as private friendship, incite us to give him liere and now the meed to which he is entitled by the common voice of the brotherhood.
But we return to the proceedings of the first meeting of the third lodge. At the time of the delivery to the lodge of the dis- pensation under which it was authorized to work, the Grand Master addressed the brethren in fitting worfs.
ADDRESS OF GRAND MASTER WILDEY.
*^M(fst N6l)le Graiuly Vice Grand^ Officers and JBroihcrs:
** In committing this dispensation to your charge and into
62 AMERICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
your safe-keeping, the Grand Lodge executes one of the most pleasing and delightful tasks which fall within the lines of its duty to perform ; and you, in receiving it, lay yourselves under the most serious responsibility you can possibly undertake. AVoll acquainted as some of you are with the nature of those engagements which bind Odd Fellows together, yet the Grand Lodge deems it neither unnecessary nor inexpedient to remind you of some of them, as well to stimulate to activity and perse- verance those who have already traveled the beaten track, as to diffuse light and impart instruction to the young and inexpe- rienced, though worthy, brothers of the Order. You are now vested with the legitimate authority to admit to the benefits and honoi's of our institution such pei'sons as may apply, who, after duo and circumspect investigation, may be found worthy of the distinguished favor. In so doing, you are admitting members into a family as extensive in its connections, its operations, and its claims as the habitable globe itself. Every pei^son so admitted must become an honor or a disgrace, an ornament and support, or a blemish and burden, to our fraternitv. The effect of useful or baneful admissions to membei-ship will not be confined to your lodge alone, but will affect, fw good or evil, the whole body of Odd Fellowship. If caution and care are necessary when per- sons are received into societies disj)ensing ordinary benefits, whose social relations extend no further than to their own indi- vidual membei'ship, how nnich more should you exercise caution and care, when your adnn'ssions are into a fraternity of limitless extent; laying open to those you receive, the privileges which do not belong to us alone, but which are the joint possession of bro- thel's in the most distant lands, who are equally interested witli oui'selves in preserving the dearest and inalienable rights of our fraternity. AVliilo exennsing this very necessary pnidence, we nnist remember, on the other hand, that no proper exertion ought to be omitted to iiurretise the usefulness and secure the respecta- bility of the Onler, by the introduction of such members as will become a credit to our society, and by the careful instruction and promotion of those who may prove themselves worthy of a name and place amongst us. On yourselves depends principally the succcjis of your infant lodge. Regular attendance at its meet- ings, and a personal deportment becoming our laudable profes- sicm, will not fail to secure for each of you a favorable i>06ition
WASHINGTON LODGE. 53
among your brothers, and have the effect of placing yonr lodge on the most respectable footing in numerical strength and pecu- niary possessions. By such a course, individually as members, you will enable your lodge to elevate your most useful brothers, and, in due time, to transfer tlieir services to that Grand Body whose more immediate province it is to strengthen, increase and bind together the fraternity, even to its most distant branches ; to contrive, deliberate on, and execute plans of extensive benevo- lence and operative charity, and to cause fragrant incense to rise from the altar of Benevolence to cheer the dreary moments of suffering humanity; that the bereaved and distressed widow and the orphan may thereby be relieved ; whilst the brother who by his mite has contributed to the happy result, can return to his home with the soothing reflection that he has done his duty as a man, and has another claim to the name of an Odd Fellow. It is ditticult to enjoy prosperity without going into excess in enjoyments. Odd Fellowship surmounts the difficulty by its pro- visions fof disposing out of our abundance a portion for those who may need the overplus. It is also difficult to stand firmly under the iron pressure of adversity. But Odd Fellowship light- ens that evil, and alleviates its crushing force on those in trouble, by attending to the sick, by speaking words of consolation to the dying, and by performing faithfully the last duties the living owe to the dead. You, Most Noble Grand, Vice Grand, Officers and Brothers, commence your career under favorable circumstances. You have before you, as glorious exemplars, the Washington and Franklin Lodges, which have weathered every storm and over- come every difficulty that obstnu'ted their course ; and they will rejoice to see Columbia Lodge, No. 3, in the enjoyment of a pros- perity equal to their own, while united to them as a third link in the Odd Fellowship of Maryland, of the United States, and of the world."
It seems that all this elaboration was to instruct in the mode to be adopted, to set a lodge of the period at work successfully.
colvin's stone tavern.
The place selected for the meetings of tho new lodge was at "The Stone Tavern," at tho northeast corner of Bridge (Gay) and Front Streets, M'here humble accommmlations were provided by Mr. Sheppard, the landlord, at the moderate rental of twenty-
54 AMERICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
five dollars per annum. The most notable incident which came of this lodge extension, was the revival of the theory of reform on the subject of liquor. One of the conditions on which the apartment had been hired, provided that no refreshment of any kind, except wcUer^ should be furnished either in the lodge or anteroom. The low rate of rent, however, clearly indicates tliat Mr. Sheppard thought he had good reason to believe that what he might lose above stairs would be amply compensated for at the bar below. But the event did not justify his conclusion, for the members avoided the liquor with the utmost fidelity, and drove the landlord to despair. He found he had made a bad bargain, and in the short space of three months he gave them formal notice to quit. This unexpected turn of afiairs made it necessary for the members to seek another place where they would be more likely to find greater security.
wildey's house on gay street.
From the very beginning, G. M. Wildey had manifested the deepest interest in all that concerned the new enterprise. The lodge had already recognized his devotion by voting him a medal on January 18, 1824, and it was natural that the brothers should seek him for advice in the emergency. lie at once made the cause his own, and, just as two years before he had succored Washington Lodge when suddenly deprived of its place of meeting, he now tendered to them the use of rooms in the house he then occupied at the corner of Bridge (Gay) and Jones (Front) Streets. After reflection, the lodge proposed to hire the rooms, and fit them up for its use and occupation. Wildey at once acceded to the ofi*er, and knowing tlie fiscal inability of the lodge, tendered the loan of funds necessary for putting the premises in order. The money was accepted and the work promptly com- pleted, and on the 21st of April, 1824, Columbia Lodge, No. 3, was permanently located at Brother Wildey's house, at a rent of sixty dollai-s per annum. Here the lodge remained until joined by the other two lodges, and this was the central point where all assembled until they removed to the new hall in Gay Street on April 20, 1831. Thus we have traced the Order in Maryland to Wildey's house, where it finds a shelter from the world ; and we can imagine the paternal j)ride which was constantly gratified by the presence of this loving band of grateful children. What
WASHINGTON LODGE. 55
house but that of the Common Father has room for the teeming thousands of their equally grateful posterity ?
A MEETING OF WASHINGTON LODGE IN 1821.
We shall close this chapter with a scene not drawn from the un- real, but exhibited in life-like colors in the graphic narrative of a witness whose evidence will assure us that such things have been. Past Grand Sire Kennedy leaves this most interesting fragment :
" During the summer of 1821, on a very warm evening, the writer, in company with a friend, undertook a ramble through the streets of Baltimore ; those less frequented by night were selected. Passing along the lower part of Frederick Street, their attention was drawn to a crowd in front of a public-house. Its sign was swinging from a projecting beam, upon each side of which were painted two extremely ugly faces, with the legend above them — ' We Three Loggerheads Be.' In answer to an inquiry, we were informed that they were listening to the singing at the Loggerheads. On looking closer, we found a large room in the second story ; it was well lighted, and pretty well filled with people. At the moment a noisy commotion seemed to be prevailing ; but by three vigorous blows of a mallet, an orderly silence was pro- duced. There were no blinds to either of the three windows, and the sash was arranged for the freest circulation ; that is, both of air and sound. All at once the silence was broken ; a deep tenor voice rendered * Old King Cole ' with all the original varia- tions ; the vocal imitations of the four-and-twenty fiddlers, fifers, drummers, &c., were loudly given, amid thundei's of applause. This was followed by a soliloquy from Richard III, in imitation of a great actor of that day. This was well received. There was then a hubbub of internal commotion, which lasted imtil stopped again by the loud-sounding mallet. A sweet, delicate voice then executed ' The Poor Little Sweep.' This was ren- dered with a pathos that not only had the loud applause of the inside audience, but also of the delighted listenei'son the outside. At this stage, my friend and myself concluded to obtain a more favorable position for the enjoyment of the treat. Accordingly, we entered the bar-room and inquired, * What is the charge to the free and easy ? ' The barkeeper indignantly replied, * There is no free and hemij here, it's the Ilodci Fellows' lodge that is above.' To our remark that it was all the same, the Bardolph of the bar
56 AMERICAN ODD FELIX)W8HIP.
infonned lis that we knew * nothing about it.' This was literally true, for we had never heard of Biich a society before. To our further inquiry, ' Well, how are we to get in ?' we were informed that we must be first proposed, and if of good moral character, might be admitted at some future meeting. After this rebuke we returned to the open street, drank in several other choicre pie<*es of music, and then, very much delighted, returned to our homes. This was my first Introduction to Odd Fellowship; this my first knowledge of Washington Lodge, the Mother of the Oi'der in America."
This lodge still retains its vitality, and does its first works with energy and success. Its record for 1877 gives 152 con- tributing members, the number drawing dues for sickness 24; deaths 6. It has paid during the year $245 to the Grand Lodge ; funeral benefits $500 ; donations $62, and to sick brothers $561. The funeral expenses were $180, and the total receipts $1642. Thus it will appear that Wildey's original lodge has kept its place with unflinching integrity : it has never been suspended^ and has always answered the roll-call in the Grand Lodge of Maryland.
JOHN BOYD.
CHAPTER III.
-the;
We have had occasion to s)>eak of a class of men pecnlinr tf> Odd Fellowship — Brituns of tlie middle rank, full of iiiitionnl peculiarities and weddud to narrow pn-jiid ices. Bnt tliey I'^id &lao rngge<l virtues, were lionest, capablo and persevering, and always cotnnianded » certain ri^sitetrt and confidence. (Jf such were the inen who caine to us with fraternity, and who were the early fathere of the Order in America. When left to tliem- selves, tliese mystic brethren knew nothing beyond the lessons they had learned at home. These were few, but tliey were good id fmitfiil. Brotherly kindness and conviviality were to them ;red and indissoluble. If thuy worshipped after the manner the ancients, it was to do honor to Harpocrates for his silence, and to Bac^chus for the pleasures of tlie foaming cup. But tliey knew nothing of mythology. Theirs was tlie lot of poverty and labor, and the lodge a refuge from the cold neglect which belonged tn a hunilile station. That circle could not lie elevated whoee centre was a public-house, and its oracle the rubicund and jolly host. Nor could one look for much among illiterate mechanics and laborers, stereotyped by the Englisli system into a stolid mass which could hardly fennent and rise under laws made for their Miperiors, Of tlie original colleagues of Wildcy in Wasli- ington Lodge, but one remained in the Order until atter the decadu. John Boyd is a name identified with early Odd Fellow- ihip in 111! it« stages, until it passed into the hands of Wildey's Bnc-cessore. This canny, sober and grave Scotchman was for many years a sort of fixture. He was seldom absent from tlie iitnnsels of the pioneers, and his sharp countenance and high cheeklxmes, liglited up by gray eyes full of penetration, were indicative of the sagacity for which he was noted. Ho was Iwrn in the year 17S7, in Lanarkshire, Scotland, and came to this country as an ordinary laborer in tlie year ]S17. His fii-st place of reflidenco was in Lovely Lane, situated very near the centre
58 AMERICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
- of Baltimore. He was at that time a sawyer of veneering for cabinetware. Soon afterwards lie turned in another direction, and the business was dropped. lie then formed a partnership
/ with Duncan McCormick to conduct an eating and drinking house. This arrangement did not long continue; McComiick lost his health and retired ; this was the brother w-ho was after- wards admitted to the Grand Lodge of Maryland and the United States on the 22d of February, 1822. Boyd then set up for himself. He hired a cellar on South near Baltimore Street, and fitted it up for the sale^of oystei-s and liquoi-s. This was the commencement of a prosperous career, fle added to this busi- ness that of the bottling of cider, ale and porter, which soon brought a large and lucrative patronage. It was during these transactions that he met the originatore of Odd Fellowship in
^ Maryland. The date of his entering Washington Lodge is not known, but it was in 1819, and soon after the society was insti- tuted. It is not certain whether he entered by caixl or initiation, some supposing him before that time an English brother. At all
- events he was known in the lodge as Number 19, that being the number which he formed by his accession to the body ; for, in those times, the successive admissions were numbered according to seniority. Nineteen was certainly a place not far from the beginning. He must have been from the first a standai*d member. At all events we find him on the Committee of Past Grands, and acting with that body on the 7th of February, 1821, when they solicited the English Charter from Washington Lodge. He was at that preliminary meeting elected both Grand Treas- urer and Grand Guardian, and was installed into both offices on the 22d of February, when the first Grand Body was fonned. From this time we will find him a part of the official bureau, until the Grand Lodge of Maryland and the United States was dissolved. Whatever other changes were made, Boyd remained. He was constantly made Guardian without any opposition. As Treasurer he was an indispensable adjunct. In those days of lax performance of such duty he was a model officer. His quarterly reports were the only business transacted strictly in due time and with unfailing regularity. He was one of the original five who first received the Golden Tlule Degi-ee. In connection with Wildey and Entwisle, he repoi-ted the first con- stitution which was adopted. On the 22d of Februarj^ 1822,
JOHN BOYD. 59
the minutes state a singular fact. They say: "G. Guardian Boyd pi-esented two-eighths of tickets of the Washington Monu- ment Lottery, purchased for the use of the Grand Lodge. The numbers were 12594 and 15." Tliis tallies with a tradition that he had sometimes a penchant for lotteries. It is said that he drew a prize of $2000, and afterwards refused to buy tickets. This sum was invested in stocks, and after some years they rose to the value of $15,000. Be that as it may, this well-intended benefac- tion was not fortunate, and Odd Fellowship drew no prize in that wlieel of fortune. That he had education may be inferred from the fact tiiat he was made chairman of the connnittee to write to Boston in 1S23 when that State was drifting into anarchy. He was a party to every movement up to the eventful meeting which dissolved the body, and transferred Odd Fellow- ship to the separate Grand Lodge of tiie United States. At the preliminary meeting he acted as Proxy Bepresentative for Penn- sylvania. Tiiis honorable position was assigned him in 1825, '6 and '7, when he gave way to Bepresentative Pearce, who had been elected to the place. He appeal's again as Proxy Bepre- sentative for Delaware in 1831, when he drops from that record. At the separation of the Grand Lodge of Maryland, when it took a charter from the separate Grand Lodge of the United States, Boyd was nominated for Grand Master, but declined. If he had stood the ballot his election was certain, but he was firm in his refusal. Such offices he had resolved never to occupy. The sturdy Scotchman was averse to all meretricious distinction and display. He loved the Order, and delighted in its work ; but his ideas of Odd Fellowship were mainly confined to its finances, and the benefits which flowed from a full treasury. A good bus- iness man, he aimed at order and lodge system as the true basis of prosperity. In those days of poverty he was the honest guar- dian of the funds — the sheet-anchor of all material prosperity. He did not, on occasions, refuse to make advances ; and in his hands the indigence of the Order was made respectable, by the attention he bestowed upon every fiscal arrangement. But he was only willing to be treasurer whilst his services were indispensable. He also served as Grand Guardian because he was thus useful, without being disturbed with ambitious projects. He was, in one respect, an ancient Odd Fellow, who would not be changed. In the old system of independent lodges, the highest rank was
60 AMERICAN ODD FKLLOWSUIP.
that of Past Grand. He had won tlie title, and his aspirations were satisfied. In fact, lie looked upon the new titles as merely ornamental. A Past Grand was, in his eyes, a king of men, and could not therefore rise any higher. He clung to the title and the rights of that place with a peculiar tenacity. Thus he was known as Thk Past Grand.
In the business transacted he was always prominent. In 1826 he was on the conunittees to revise and have the charge books printed, to procure a room for the meetings of the subordinate lodges, and to regulate the payment of dues. He was the author of the first resolution fixing the order of taking the degrees, and ^ of the letter to Pennsylvania explaining the use of the sign and ^ grip. He also aided in procuring the copper-plate for printing certificates. He was one of those to whom was referred the con- stitution which was approved, and is known as the amended con- stitution of 1829. He, with Marley and Mathiot, drafted the form of visiting card adopted. Above all, he was a useful mem- ber of the committee which designed and built the Odd Fellows' Hall on Gay Street. In that he took 20 shares of stock. In 1831 he consented to serve as Grand Treasurer, and was duly elected. This was his last oflice in the Order. Nothing but the exigency of building and paying for the new hall could have in- duced him to serve. Having adjusted the matter successfully, he, in due time, finally resigned. About this time began the controversv wlii(;h arose from the admission of Scarlet Members into the Grand Lodge, M'hich will be detailed in the biography of Marley. He was decidedly in favor of the measure, and vigor- ously suj)ported it. Tliere were various reasons which led others to vote for it, but Boyd was actuated by principle. It began by a petition from the subordinates for " a fair representation in the Grand Tx)dge."" This meant that members of the latter body should not be required to be Past Grands. Such a doctrine com- mended itself to Bo}-d as eminently proper. Under the indivi- dual and independent lodge system, each lodge was both a subor- dinate and Grand Lodge. It was (treated by a single lodge, and created other lodges in its turn. It was generally both a subor- dinate and Grand Lodge; a subordinate, as being limited by its charter and by ancient usage, and a Grand Lodge to grant char- ters. It is tnie that Past Grands were superior to the other mem- bers, but that WHS only in degree. They all met together for lodge
JOHN BOYD. 61
business. The committee of Past Grands indeed met separately, but not to legislate. That committee could only advise. Its recommendations could be heeded or rejected, at pleasure. All the power was in the body of the membership, and the form of government might be called democratic. The theory of the new men was, to the contrary, one of a separate Grand Lodge, confined to Past Grands alone. The lodges could only send their Past Grands to that body, and thus select their representatives from that superior class alone. To this, ancient usage could not give its assent, and any measure which secured personal representa- tion to members of the subordinate lodge, had the charm of use and tradition to assist it. Past Grand Bovd broke his usual silence to advocate the proposition. Finding that he could not effect the purpose by obtaining a vote suflScient to amend the constitution of the Grand Lodge, he voted with the majority to admit Scarlet Degree members to that body. This was for a time successful, until, as related elsewhere, the Grand Lodge of the United States destroyed this singular anomaly by appropriate legislation.
When the Gay Street Hall was completed Boyd became one of the board of in anagers. In another place whe have related the story of the spurious lodge which grew out of the admission to the Grand Lodge of ^laryland of Scarlet Degree membei's. In January, 1833, Boyd, with four others, one of whom was Past Grand Ken- nedy, afterwards Grand Sire, was appointed to reconcile the diffi- culty. This was not accomplished. A general law was immedi- ately passed, under which the offending members were expelled, and Boyd voted heartily with the majority. The vote stood 59 ayes to 31 nays. In 1834 the members expelled, with one accord, sought to return to the fold. Some were received back, but the majority were rejected ; Boyd always voting to receive them. Tliis unfavorable action seems to have affected the Past Grand deeply. He was among new men, who were fast forgetting his honorable services, and he found his influence on the decline. His private business had pressing claims upon him, and he turned from the lodges to the congenial business of making money. In fact there was nothing but routine work to be done in the Order ; it was fully established, so that he could leave it to younger men. He had been gradually enlarging his ventures. The courthouse in Baltimore is built on a steep declivity, hence, on the street
\.
C2 AMERICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
at its foot there was a large space left under the square of the building. This was fitted up as a very large cellar. He rented and used it for the bottling business on a large scale. His salea brought him excellent profits. He was now possessed of a large capital. He accordingly purchased the well-known Gilmor resi- dence and an adjoining property on South Gay Street. This he im- proved greatly. Here were his offices, workshops and storerooiuB during the remainder of his life. But this required only part of his capital. He built a malt-house at the foot of Eutaw Street, and con- ducted the business of malting. Everything prospered with him, and he became wealthy. When the Front Street Theatre was built he became one of the stockholders. In course of time he bought a country-seat in the vicinity of the city, where he lived in ease and plenty, and where his descendants now reside. He was always liighly esteemed in business and social circles. As a Scotchman, he was proud of his nationality. He was for a long time president and vice-president of the Bums Club of Baltimore, and took an active part in its transactions. He was of those whose " woi-d was as good as his money." Although he ceased to attend tlie Grand Lodge, he never neglected Washington Lodge, No. 1. He was there held in profound resj^ect, as one of the venerated Fathers. His sagacity and prudence were the theme of eulogy. In all financial affaii-s he was an oracle. Nor was he unmindful of the courtesies of life. Among his intimates he was cordial and full of interest. He had been a close observer, and was well versed in men and affaire. When friendship called he was always ready to advise and help, and to a tried brother was true as steel. Nor did his caution, industry and money-mak- ing cause him to neglect his duty to humanity. In a good cause he was liberal, and on proper occasions led the way to administer benevolence. As a prudent citizen, whose integrity was bej^ond question, Le was by every one respected.
On great occasions in Odd Fellowship, Boyd felt a return of his old interest in the cause. His last appearance in public was on the occasion of the death of his great leader. He was present at the Wildey eulogy by Ridgely, and with deep emotion grasped the orator with both hands in a warm embrace of mingled grief and satisfaction ; grief at his loss, delight to find his countryman up(»n a pinnacle of world-wide fame. Well might he be proud at the rehearsal of that obscure history to such an audience 1 — to
JOHN BOYD. 03
hear the old, lialf-foi^otten names uttered by so many voices, calling them into new life ; to have spread before him the scenes of his early manhood ; to awake to the fact that he had been a contemporary of historical men, and had helped them to make history ! How thrilling was the contrast of the vast theatre with the *' Seven Stars" and the "Three Loggerheads"! The old Ti-easnrer and Gnardian of the infant Grand Ixxlge of but five meml)ei-s, saw himself surrounded by a Supreme Grand Lodge from all pai-ts of the continent, a picked senate fi'om a vast con- stituency. His face was radiant with happiness, and his heart solaced with a consciousness that virtue was at length rewarded. He never dropped from the roll of Washington Lodge imtil he left the world. As the old members disappeared, he stood alone as the senior of the lodge. He loved among his intimates to live over the early days. On such occasions he forgot his usual reticence, and reheai*sed with raised voice and sparkling eye the stories of the early conflicts. In some points he stood among the early laborers with Welch. Like him, he was sober, pnident, and eminently respectable. His energy and pereeverance were very marked. As a citizen, he was a man of substance and of weight. His long connection with successful business had made him well-known in such circles, and he was held up as an example to young and rising men.
As age grew upon him, Boyd gradually retired from active life into the bosom of his family. At Loudon Hill, his fine country beat, he sat down in great peace to await the end. His children had grown up around him in honor, and cheered his declining yeai^s. His daughters connected themselves with men of position, and his grandchildren were promising. His grandsons, John Boyd and John Boyd Ricketts, imder the firm of Boyd & llick- etts, succeeded to his business, which they still conduct in a man- ner honorable to themselves and their grandfather. At length firail nature could bear up no longer, and on the 3()th day of August, 1871, in the bosom of his family, he peacefully sank to rest He was at that time in his 84th year, and the oldest living Odd Fellow in the United States — the last of the men of 1819! He lies in the same cemetery with Wildey, Marlcy and Mathiot, and a fine monument rises over his grave. Peace to his ashes ! But a nobler monument to his memory appears in these pages, where he will be found linked with those who were hiunan benefactors ;
\
04 AMERICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
ono of tliat fainous band wliom the world will cherish as men whose names cdn never be forgotten.
Boyd's last day of service in theGrand Lodge of tlie United States was memorable in his history. When all the business of the annual session was completed, there was a long pause before tlie final adjournment. The vote had just been taken that made him a charter member of the first Grand Encampment. In tlie midst of silent expectation, Rep. Birkey arose in behalf of the great State of Pennsylvania. His preface consisted of an able and elo- quent address, full of pei*sonal and oflicial compliments to the retiring Representative. He then advanced to Past Grand Boyd, and presented him a beautiful memento of esteem. It w^as a medal, described as a circular tablet of silver, neatly enclosed in a frame of the same metal, having engraved on one side three columns, terminating respectively in a hand, a heart and a fiame, and based on an altar whose panels or tablets were decorated wnth emblems of the Order; the whole surmoimted with an all- seeing eye, and encircled with the motto of the Order, "Amicitia, Amor et Veritas." On tlie opposite side is engraved the follow- ing inscription : ''Presented, September 5th, 1831, by the Grand luodge of i\Minsylvania, of the 1. O. of O. F., to P. G. John Boyd, late Proxy of this Grand Lodge in the Grand Lodge of the United States, as a testimony of respect and regard for his uni'emitted attention to the interest of the Order in this State."
CHAPTER IV.
THE GRAND LODGE OF MARYLAND AND OF THE UNITED STATES, FROM ITS ORGANIZATION, IN 1821, TO ITS DISSOLUTION, IN 1825.
The organization of that duplex body, " The Grand Lodge of Maryland and of the United States," was consummated on the 22d of February, 1821, when the following officers were installed : Thomas Wildey, Grand Master; John P. Entwisle, Deputy Grand Master; William S. Couth, Grand Warden; John Welch, Grand Secretary, and John Boyd, Grand Guardian. Past Grand Larkam was admitted, and the Golden Ilule degree was conferred on five Past Grands. A dispensation was innnediately presented to Washington Lodge, No. 1, as its first subordinate, in acknow- ledgment of the Grand Warrant ceded by that lodge. The support of the Grand Lodge was then i)rovided for by the adoption of the following: "Resolved, That ten percentum be paid by the subordinate lodges on their receipts, for the support of the Grand Lodge. That each member j)ay to the Grand Lodge seventy-five cents for the Golden Rule degree. That thirty dollars be charged for dispensations for opening lodges, viz : Ten dollars for the dispensation, ten dollars for the White, Blue and Scarlet degrees and book of charges ; and ten dollars for the intermediate degrees, called the Covenant and Remembrance." Annual sessions were to be held on the 22d day of February, and quarterly sessions on the 22(1 days of May, August and November. The meeting in May was infor- mally adjourned, but the August session assembled in form; all the Grand Officers were present; the office of Grand ('onductor was created, and the place filled by the appointment of P. G. William Larkam. Franklin Lodge, which had been (tailed into existence by hostility to Washington Lodge, appeared as a peti- tioner for a warrant as a subordinate. The petition was granted, and a warrant issued under the title of Franklin Lodge, No. 2, dated September 5th, 1821, which day was selected as the one when the lodge should become lawful. A committee, consisting 5 <«>
66 AMERICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
of G. M. Wildey, D. G. M. Entwisle, and G. W. Conih, were appointed to draft a fonn for dispensations, and to prepare books, &c., and Entwisle, Boyd and Larkani were directed to prepare a constitution. For the latter tliere wjis no precedent, for before that time all such bodies, under whatever name, exercised an undefined authority, with no restraint but such as " ancient usage " imposed. But they had already learned the value of written law to reduce obligation and authority to form, and make rights and duties fixed and tangible.
At the November session, 1821, Deputy Grand Master Entwisle reported the instrument, which contained twenty pro- positions ; it was unanimously adopted. He also reported several secret articles relative to the signs, passwords, &c., which were also approved. Solomon Winchester, of No. 1, and Ezekiel Wilson, of No. 2, were elected and admitted to membership, and took the Golden Rule degree. It is also stated that Richard P» Petherick was expelled ; as this brother was afterwards restored and became a valuable member, it is but just to state that this action was irregular, and no doubt was ex parte. Brother Petherick does not appear to have been a member of the Grand Lodge, and was not amenable to a sentence of the kind. It was an act in keeping with the rude justice of those times, which was administered in the most summary manner ; thus we know absolutely nothing of the offence, if any, with which Petherick was charged. It would be of interest to insert the initial constitution wliich was adopted at this meeting, but no copy can be found. The next recorded meeting is entitled " Grand Committee," and was held on De- cember 10,1821; Wildey was absent, and D. G. M. Entwisle presided. The committee on dispensations, &c., reported the form for a subordinate lodge warrant, which was adopted and ordered to be printed, and Entwisle, Welch and Wilson were selected to revise the degrees and charges. The committee on dispensations, &c., also reported having procured a seal suitable to be used on wax, ^vith the following inscription : Gr. Lo. of Md. AND OF THE U. S. 1820 L O. F. ; with a hand and heart sup- porting evenly balanced scales. This was the first of a series of meetings held by the Grand Officers and members of the Grand Lodge, styled "Grand Committee," which seem to have been special sessions of the Grand Lodge. At such meetings the business of the regular sessions was continued and new business
THB 0&A2n> LODGE OF MD. AHD THE U. 8. 67
transacted ; as in the case of receiving the report of the com- mittee on dispensations, and in appointing another to revise the work. The name seems to have been borrowed from the ancient committee of Past Grands, and it is very probable that it was provided for in the constitution. The Grand Committee met on January 1, 1822, when a resolution was passed forbidding the conferring of d^rees on any member except in his own lodge ; and an arrangement was made to meet the two subordinate lodges on the tenth of the same month for instruction, and to deliver the warrants before granted. In a special session of the 9th day of January the two papers were duly signed and sealed, and the colors of the degrees affixed ; and on the next day, being the 10th of January, 1822, everything being in readiness, and the lodges duly assembled, their respective warrants were de- livered to them with much ceremony. The second annual session took place on February 22d, when, in addition to the officers, the following Past Grands were presented, viz : Solomon Winchester and Ezekiel Wilson; and two others were duly admitted, viz: Duncan McConnick and James Seed. At the opening, Grand Master Wildey addressed them briefly, in words full of zeal and wisdom.
ADDBESS OF GKAND MASTER WILDEY.
"^. IT. Deputy Grand Master^ Officers :
" On the present occasion we meet for the despatch of busi- ness. On the deliberations of our meetings will depend greatly the welfare and eventual success of our ancient and honorable Order. It has become our duty to lay do\m rules for the control- ment of our future action ; and if the resolutions we ordain shall be in unison jvith the revealed teachings of the Great Patron of our Order, the God in whom we trust, we shall have notliing to fear for our ultimate welfare. I look iijwn you as the pillars and supports of the Order. On yoiir precepts and examples rest our hopes; for on them the reputation of the Order is fornunl. Should they be in conformity with tlie principles we profess, you will be revered by all good Odd Fellows ; if otherwise, yoii will disgrace yoiii-selves, injure the Order of which you are members, and damage the cause of benevolence in society at large. The obligations you have undertaken are sufficient to teach you your duties in the Order ; and each one of you is capable of jndging
68 AMERICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
when these duties are properly performed. I therefore solemnly call on you this day to give me your joint and individual assist- ance, to aid my endeavors in tlie formation of such plans as may be most productive of the great object we have in view ; the building up of an institution devoted to brotherly love, unity and benevolence."
This address was ordered to be spread on the minutes. The brevity, beauty and energy of this fragment bespeak the hand of a master ; the voice was that of Wildey, but the diction and sen- timent were from the pen and brain of his intellectual mentor. The reader will here take notice that we do not present this and other productions as Wildey's, but simply as indicative of what was taught ])y him. When we come to speak of Entwisle and Mathiot, justice will be done; but especially to the former, who will be found to have given all its literary character to the first decade. After the address, all the Grand Officers were re-elected to fill their offices for another j^ear. Information having been received that lodges of the Order had been organized at New York and Boston, it was ordered that letters be written to the brethren in those cities, and every eflbrt made to open a corre&- pondcnce with them. The importance of punctual attendance having been (considered, a penalty was imposed on officers and members for any absence from the sessions of either the Grand Lodge or the " Grand (.'ommittce." Franklin Lodge was reported as having very finv present at their meetings ; when the members of AVashington Lodge were invited to attend and help in its work. Past Grand Ezekiel "Wilson was reported by Franklin Lodge, No. 2, as suspended from membei-ship during " one year and a day." At the May quarterly session, in addition to the Grand Officers, Past Grands M(»Cornn*ck, Winchester and Seed ^were present, and Thomas iritchell, of No. 2, was admitted. The expulsion of Past (irand ITumphreys, " for attempting to defraud the treasury of his lodge," was approved. This was more regular than in Peth- erick's (case, yet there is nothing to be found showing that the expelled member had ev(^r been admitted to the Grand Lodge, nor in what lodge he held membership. A notice was sent in from Franklin Lodge of the expulsion of Past (irand Ezekiel Wilson, who was then under sentence of suspension ; this was also approved.
THE GBAND LODGE OF MD. AND THE U. 8. 69
At tlie August quarterly session, in addition to the Grand Officers, Past Grands McCormick, Seed and Mitchell were present, and John Nelson, of No. 2, was duly admitted. The fourth or Golden Rule degree had been previously conferred without charge ; it was now ordered that the fee of one dollar should be paid for the degree. On this occasion the death of the first member was announced in the person of Solomon Winchester, of No. 1, and crape was ordered to be worn as mourning for four quarters. Past Grand Couth resigned as Grand Warden, and Past Grand Thomas Mitchell was elected to the place; and Franklin Lodge applied for and received copies of the inter- mediate degrees of Covenant and Remembrance. The November quarterly session, in addition to the officei-s, was attended by Past Grands McCormick and Nelson ; Past Grand Thomas Scotchburn was admitted a member. An opinion seemed to prevail at this session that the progress of the Order was retarded by the sentiments and music of the odes of the ritual ; Entwisle, Welch and Scotchbuni were therefore deputed to make alterations in the words and music of tlie odes used in the lodges ; this com- mittee was instructed to report at the next quarterly session, but failed to do so. The third annual session convened on February 22, 1823 ; present, the Grand Officei*s and Past Grands Seed, Nelson and Scotchbuni ; Past Grand Anstice was duly admitted. It was enacted that no member of the body should be admitted to its councils unless he could prove himself in the Past Grand's sign and password. The election of officers now proceeded under the following : " Resolved, that the Grand Lodge proceed to the election of G. Officei-s to sei've for the ensuing two years." The original constitution, now lost, doubtless provided for the annual election of the officers ; the election that preceded it was for the term of one vear; and the election under it in 1822 was for a similar term, although not so designated. Without any pretence of an amendment, the term was extended from one year to two years — so great a lack of respect still existed in regard to the binding force of law among those new converts to written com- ])a('ts. Under this resolution all the officers were re-elected ; the only change made was in elevating G. Sec. Welch to the pla(*o (»f Deputy Grand Master, and placing D. G. M. Entwisle in the more (congenial office of Grand Secretary, where his peculiar fitness was speedily displayed. During the first year of the
70 AMERICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
Grand Lodge no detailed fiscal account is preserved ; no such oflSce as Treasurer was provided for, either in tlie Grand or sub- ordinate lodges. Grand Guardian Boyd and G. M. Wildey usually advanced money as needed, and hence acted in some sort as Treasurers.
In the second year an account was opened by a statement of the gross receipts and expenditures of the year, thus : receipts from commencement of Grand Lodge to end of first year $102.97; expenditures during the same time $100.37; leaving a balance of $2.60. During the second year there was received from Washington Lodge, No. 1, $27.58 ; from Franklin Lodge, No. 2, $16.71; from members for admission fees, &c., $8.69; which, with the balance of tlie first year, $2.60, made a total of $55.58 ; the expenditure of this year was fifty-six cents, which left a balance at the beginning of the third year of $55.02. Nothing is known of the income of the subordinate lodges previous to this time except as calculated by the percentage paid in; by which the receipts of Washington Lodge for the preceding year had been $275.80, and of Franklin Lodge $167.10. There are no* data by which the expenses of either lodge can be ascertained. The " Grand Committee" was assembled on April 13, 1823, with the Grand Oflicers and Past Grands Seed, Nelson, Scotchbum and Anstice. The meeting was held to consider a letter received by Washington Lodge.
THE BOSTON LETTEK.
" Boston, March 28, 1828.
"7b the Most Noble G randy Officers and Brothers of the Wash- i^igton Lodge, Baltiinore :
" Your favor, through the hands of brother Wilson, was duly received by Massachusetts Lodge, No. 1. The kind and affectionate manner in which you received our worthy brother Wiljion, merits our warmest acknowledgments ; and rest assured such praiseworthy conduct will meet with a reciprocation from us, as we are convinced it will tend more closely to cement the bonds of Odd Fellowship. From brother Wilson's statement we are satisfied your lodge is legally the Grand Lodge of the United States. ^V^e do hereby acknowledge you as such, and beg you to grant us a charter as the Grand Lodge of this State, under the title of the Massachusetts Lodge of L O. F., No. 1 ; giving us power to grant charters to such lodges as may, from time to time, arise in this State, but at all times to acknowledge
THE GRAND LODGE OF MD. AND THE U. 8. 71
your lodge as the Grand Lodge of the United States. We feel more anxious on this point, as we have just granted a few of our worthy brothers leave to withdraw from us and form a new lodge, with no other intention but to benefit the Order by spreading it more extensively. We are without the lectures and degrees, and we wish von to state the manner of application and method of receiving tliem here. We shall at all times be proud of any communication from you, and sincerely hope there will be a free correspondence kept up between the two lodges. All expenses incurred in sending on these degrees, etc., will be paid by us. Yours, with respect,
" Philemon Stacy, Secretary. " Approved : Wm. Bishop, M. N. G.
" P. b. You will please send the lectures and degrees on as soon as possible."
On its receipt the N. G. of Washington Lodge presented it to G. M. Wildey, who offered it for the consideration of the Grand Committee. On learning its contents, all informalities were waived, and the following answer nnanimously agreed upon:
" Resolved, that a Charter be granted to Massachusetts Lodg^ No. 1."
" Resolved, that a dispensation for a Grand Lodge, to grant charters to other lodges in the State of Massachusetts, be given, free of expense, to the Past Grands of those lodges, and to be located at Boston."
This was supplemented by a resolution deputizing the Grand Master to convey the charter to the petitioners.
The Grand Committee then ordered the lectures and degrees to be printed ; and D. G. M. Welch and G. Secretary Entwisle were directed to write out the lectures and charges, and to super- vise the printing, which was proposed to be done speedily. A question then arose on amending the constitution, which was finally referred to G. G. Boyd and Past Grands Scotchbum, Nel- f^on and Anstice. Before the close of the session the members, on the motion of G. Secretary Entwisle, gave formal expression to the obligation of the Order to G. M. Wildcy, " for his assidu- ity and perseverance in the service of the Grand Lodge." The Grjiiid Master eloquently responded. The further proc^eedings upon the Boston application will be detailed in their order. The fii-st quarterly session of 1823 was held May 18th, when, in addi- tion to the Grand Oflicers, Past Grands Seed, McCormick, Nelson and Anstice were present. In opening, the Grand Master stated
72 AMERICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
that the regular day of meeting being on Sunday, the 22d instant, he had called them together on another day, to avoid public cen- sure. Past Grand William Tong was admitted a member. The charter of Massachusetts Lodge, No. 1, was ordered to be signed by the officers and members, and the seal of the Grand Lodge, with the appropriate colors, affixed thereto. Tlie dis- pensation for the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts was not in readi- ness, and in order to complete it, a " Grand Committee " was ordered to be held on the 25th. On that day the Grand Com- mittee met ; present, the Grand Officers, except the Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master and Grand Conductor; Grand Warden Mitchell acting as Grand Master; Past Grands Scotch- bum, Anstice, Nelson, Seed and Tong. Past Grand William Williams, of No. 1, was admitted to a seat. The Grand Dispen- sation for Massacjhusetts having been engrossed, was signed by the Grand Officers and members present, and subsequent!}' by G. M. Wildey, D. G. M. Welch, G. Con. Larkam and P. G. McCormick.
Previous to the departure of Grand Master Wildey on his mia- sion to New England, letters were sent to the lodge known to be in existence in Philadelphia, and to one or more of the lodges which rumor had located in New York, apprising them of his intended journey, and a>king penuission for Wildey to visit them and to commune with the brethren when he was passing through their resi)ective citi(»s. W^hereupon the Grand blaster left Baltimore on the 31st May, 1S23, for Philadelphia, and arrived there the next morning. He found the brethren in that city self-instituted, through the Jigency of a member of an informal lodge in New York, known at Franklin Lodge, No. 2. To this lodge the bro- thel's wer(» looking for authority as a superior, and were not pre- pared to join the movement elsewliere. But Wildey's explana- tion was well calculated to arrest their attention. He informed them of his success in Maryland, and that he bore one charter for a working lodge at Boston, and another to enable the Past Grands at that ]>lace to fonn the (irand Lodge of Massachusetts; and that his constituents were willing, and evi»n anxious, to make similar grants to the brethren in Pennsylvania. He enforced these topics by presenting the advantage's that Avere likely to result to all concerned, should his plan be adopted ; to individual members, the knowledge of the improvements of the Manchester
THE GBAND LODGE OF MD. AND THE U. 8. 73
Unity ; to subordinates, uniformity in the work and a system of finance ; to the Past Grands, the dignity of a State Grand Lodge ; and to all, the importance of a central parental authority in a Grand Lodge of the United States. The brethren were well inclined to his offers, but insisted on such delay as would allow them to learn of the result of an application to what they consid- ered their mother lodge. Wildey remained another day with them, and on the morning of the third day of June left for New York, and reached that city in time to be that niglit in session with Franklin Lodge, at thehoiise of Bro. Lovett, No. 279 Grand Street. Here he found two lodges, the one formally and the other informally constituted. The lawful lodge was claiming superiority over all the self-instituted lodges of the city, and the controversy had just reached a crisis. Wildey met the contest- ants and was made their umpire. He found that Columbia Lodge had received a valid charter from a lodge of the Independent Order in England, of the date of the 14th of November, 1S22, and without hesitation decided in favor of the legal body. Co- lumbia Lodge at once agreed to apply to the Grand Lodge at Balti- more, to surrender its charter, and receive a dispensation of the date of Jime 4th, 1823. The Noble Grand of the Tx>dge began the correspondence with Maryland, as follows:
New York, June Gtli, 1823.
To the Grand Lodge of ilu Slate (jf Maryland^ it<\^ etc.
Honored Brkthkkn: — Having been visited by(Trand Master Wildey on his tour to Boston, he was polite enough to inform us of the method of forming a Grand Lodge of the State. Where- upon we make application to you, by G. M. Wildey 's recom- mendation, for a dispensation for a Grand Lodge, so that he will have it in his power to install our officers on his return from Boston. Your immediate compliance with this will give us a great deal of pleasure. We remain in the bonds of F. L. and T.
R. Watts, M, X. G.
On its receipt the Grand Secretary, at a loss what to do, con- sulted several of the members, and then replied :
Baltimore, June 1), 1823. li. TFato, M, X. G.
Dear Brother: — Your esteemed letter of ()th instant is received this morning, and I have lost no time in taking up the sense of a majority of the Grand Lodge, not indeed in formal
74 AMERICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
committee, but meeting to give a degree with several, and visiting others, the opinion being unanimous, we must wait another communication from you before we can proceed further. In the first place, the rule of Odd Fellowship has been, from time im- memorial, that there must be an application from five brothers for a dispensation for a lodge, and a Grand Charter can (only) be
fiven to five Past Grands. 2d. In the application signed by the 1. N. G. Watts there is no authority by the lodjje lie belongs to, and there is no mention made of the name of tlie lodge. As we have heard of the Shakspeare, No. 1 ; Franklin, No. 2, and Washington, No. 3, it is iinpossible we should know to which to grant the dispensation. Tlie first subordinate which takes a charter will be denominated No. 1, but the Grand Charter will extend equally to the privilege of tlic Past Grands of the lodges now fonned, or the numerous and respectable lodges which we sincerely hope you will in future fonn.
John P. Entvvisle, Grand Secretary.
In three days this had reached New York; the members were called together, when a fonnal application was prepared and signed, and enclosed in a letter explaining the reason of the infonnality in the first instance, viz : that they had personally applied to G. M. Wildey on the 4th of June for the Grand Charter, and relied on his having forwarded the necessary information.
APPLICATION OF COLUMBIA LODGE.
New York, June 12th, 1823.
To the Grand Lodge of Maryland and of the United States :
We, the undersigned, for and in behalf of Columbia Lodge, No. 1, ot I. O. F., held at Brother Lovett's, 279 Grand Street, having received a legal dispensation from the Loyal Beneficent Duke of Sussex Lod<re, No. 2, Liverpool, for the subordinate lodge, do further petition for a dispensation from your lodge to form a (rrand Lodge of the State of New York. We trust you will forward us the necessary documents as early as possible ; as G. 51. AVildey intends installing our officers on his return from Boston. Wishing the Grand Lodge of Maryland and of the Ignited States every prosperity, we remain vours in the bonds of F. L. and T.
P. (t. Jno. B. Bobinson, M. N. G. Thos. Turnbull,
P. (t. Jamks Simistkr, Y. G. Jos. Barton,
P. G. Jamks Claridge, SecCy T. Ball.
P. G. John Grant, P. G. Pt. Watts.
THE OBAND LODGE OF MD. AND THE U. 8. 75
This was the first formal petition received by the Grand Lodge of Maryland and of the United States, for a Grand Lodge Char- ter. It reached Baltimore on the 15th of June, on which day D. G. M. Welch convened the Grand Committee.
But to return to the brethren in Pennsylvania. So soon as G. M. Wildey received the oral application of the New York brothers, he wrote to Philadelphia and gave information of tliat fact. The brothers, on receipt of the communication, assembled, and prepared and transmitted what follows :
Philadelphia, June 6th, 1823.
To John P, Etitwidey Grand Secretary, Esq,
Respected Brother: — We have the pleasure to inform vou G. M. Wildey arrived in Philadelphia on Sunday, in good health. We assembled a few brothers by two o'clock ; the infor- mation we received from our worthy brother was pleasing and instructive. This Lodge had come to a determination to take a dispensation, charter and degrees; and we hearing tliat a lodge in riew York had received a dispensation from England, we had applied for one from them before the arrival of brother Wildey. Bro. Wildey has written to us from New York, which communi- cation we received this morning. His letter gives us such infor- mation as to enable us to apply to the Grand Lodge of Maryland and of the United States for a charter, etc., and he says he will, on his return, provide us with other documents. Wishing you every blessing this world can afford, we remain,
in the bonds of F. L. and T.
Wm. Mathews, N. G. Jno. Sturois, V. G. Thos. Hepworth, P. G. Aaron Nichols, P. G. Nath'l Longmire, /&6*'y.
This very informal application was regarded as sufficient. The Grand Committee, as before stated, being called into session on the 15th of June, 1823, these communications were presented. The committee first granted the prayer of the petitioners for a dispensation for the Grand Lodge of the State of New York ; afterwards the application from Philadelphia was considered, and, on motion, its informalities waived, and a charter was granted to Pennsylvania Lodge, No. 1 ; after which a dispensation was granted to the Past Grands of said Lodge to form the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania. The latter grant was made in anticipation of any application therefor; the same as in the case of the grant to the
76 AMERICAN ODD FELLOWSHIP.
Past Grands of Massachusetts. The documents were speedily pre- pared, after the forms used for the Massachusetts bodies, and witli tlie necessary cliarge and degree books, were forwarded to the address of TJiomas Wildey, New York, on the 18th of June> in order to intercept him on liis return from Boston. Meanwhile G. M. Wildey had left Kew York on the 5th of June, by the land route for JJoston, which place he reached on the 8th instant; he found the brethren anxiously awaiting his arrival. On the 9th of June he regularly instituted Massachusetts Lodge, No. 1, and instructed such members as were eligible in the several de- gree's of the Order. He then went earnestly to work preparing the Past Grands i'or conducting the business of a Grand Lodge, and was enabled on June 11th, 1823, at the lodge hall in Ann Street, to institute and organize the Grand Lodge of Massachu- setts. After spending a few days with the brethren, G. Master Wildey began his jcmrney homeward, and reached New Y'ork on the 22d of June. He found matters but little changed during his absence; with the exception of Past Grands Downing and Robinson, every member of Franklin Ix)dge stubbornly refiised to recognize the new arrangement, and ceased to meet as a lodge. The i)ackage of warrants and other documents had arrived from Baltimore, and at once the (t. M. proceeded to institute and organize tlie Grand Lodge of the State of New Y'ork, which was done at No. 270 Grand Street, on June 24th, by the installation of th(i duly elected ofticiTs. Having imparted all needful instruc- tions, G. M. Wildey l(»ft on the following day for Philadelphia, when* he arriv(»d on the same evening. Everj'thing being in readiness, ho instituted Pennsylvania Lodge, No. 1, at No. 66 Dock Street, on June 2()th, 1823. On the next day he organized, at the same j)lace, the Grand Tx)dge of the State of Pennsylvania. After remaining a day or two for the pui'j)(>se of imparting infor- mation, the Grand Master resumed his journey, and arrived at Baltimore on the 1st of Julv, 1823.
Hut to return to the narrative. A special Grand Committee was held July 7th, 1823, when all the Grand Officers and several Past Grands