On this date in 1909, Harry S. Truman received his 1st degree in Belton Lodge #450, Missouri.

On this day in 1861, Jefferson F. Davis is elected president of the Confederate States of America. Jefferson Davis (1808-1889) President of the Confederate States of America. He was not a Mason although his father, Samuel and brother, Joseph E., were members of the craft. He was, however, friendly to the fraternity. Following the war this statement was made in a magazine article against Davis: "Jefferson Davis, a Free and Accepted Mason, headed the great rebellion, and the fact did not even taint his Masonic standing, but did have much to do in receiving his pardon." In answering this to an inquirer, Davis wrote, in part: "(I) regard the fraternity with respect and have never felt any disapproval of it other than that which pertains to every secret society. Viewing Freemasonry from a distance, and judging the tree by its fruits, I have believed it to be in itself good.”

William Henry Harrison, ninth U.S. President and the first to die in office. Was born on this day in 1773. He was known as an anti-mason.