Grand Lodge convened at the Auditorium, Canton, Wednesday, October 16, A. D. 1907, with M.·. W.·. Horace A. Irvin, Grand Master, in the Chair, all the other Grand Officers in their stations, Past Grand Masters W. M. Cunningham, J. M. Goodspeed, Leander Burdick, Levi C. Goodale, Allen Andrews, C. F. Clapp, Wm. B. Melish, Barton Smith, Nelson Williams, E. L. Lybarger, Frank S. Harmon, Ike M. Robinson, W. A. Belt, O. P. Sperra, C. G. Ballou, Lewis P. Schaus, Past Deputy Grand Masters Wm. J. Akers and J. L'H. Long, twenty-two District Lecturers, and the representatives of 492 Subordinate Lodges in attendance, 12 Lodges not being represented.

The Grand Master read his annual address, in which he calls attention to the death of Bro. Charles A. Woodward, Most Worshipful Past Grand Master of Masons of Ohio, who died at Cleveland, February 15, A. D. 1907. He was born at Cincinnati, December 6, 1827, was made a Master Mason November 27, A. D. 1855, in Cleveland City Lodge No.15, exalted to the degree of Royal Arch Mason in Webb Chapter No.14, R. A. M., April 16, 1857; Knighted in Oriental Commandery No.12, K. T., September 5, 1864; received the Thirty-second Degree, A. A. S. R., March 25, 1865, and was elected and made an honorary Thirty-third Degree member of the Supreme Council of that Rite, June 18, 1870, and served as an Officer in various bodies of the York and Scottish Rite, and as Grand Master of Ohio in 1876 and 1877

Also the death of R.·. W.·. Bro. Sidney Moore, Past Junior Grand Warden of this Grand Lodge, who died at Delaware, Ohio, May 27, 1907.

His gift to the Masons of Delaware of their splendid Masonic Temple and to the citizens of Delaware of the home for aged people, while probably the most conspicuous of his philanthropies, do not represent the total of his benevolence. It was his pleasure to be at all times helpful and in most of his acts of charity concealed the identity of the donor.

Reports that the San Francisco and California Emergency Fund of $2,184.60, unexpended and turned over by Grand Master L. P. Schaus, last year, bad been increased by the refunding by the Grand Lodge of California of the additional sum of $1,600, our pro rata share of the unexpended balance in their hands, the fund now aggregating $3,784.60, and accrued interest, the fund being invested at four per cent per annum, payable in semi-annual installments.

On January 29, 1907, received a communication from the Grand Orient of Greece asking for an exchange of representatives. On April -, 1907, received a communication from the Grand Lodge of Canada advising me it had canceled the warrant issued by it to the Royal Solomon Mother Lodge at Jerusalem, Palestine; and on July 30, 1907, received a communication from the Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Saskatchewan, advising us it had withdrawn from the Grand Lodge of Manitoba, and formed itself into a new Grand Lodge to he known as the "Grand Lodge of Saskatchewan" and requesting recognition and exchange of representatives, all of which were referred to the Committee on Foreign Correspondence for investigation and report at this session of the Grand Lodge.

Reports the appointment of the twenty-five District Lecturers, and commends them as loyal, courteous, energetic, and efficient Officers.

The Past Grand Master's jewel voted to M.·. W.·. Grand Master Lewis P. Schaus was presented to him by M.·. W.·. Bro. L. C. Goodale, at the meeting of Acme Lodge No.554, of which he is a charter member, on the evening of December 19, 1906, in the presence of over 250 Masons, including M.·. W.·. Bro. Wm. M. Cunningham and M.·. W.·. Grand Master Horace A. Irvin, and was received by him in a pleasant speech of acceptance and thanks.

The terms of M.·. W.·. Bro. Leander Burdick and M.·. W.·. Bro. C. F. Clapp as Trustees of the Masonic Home expiring December 31, 1906, the Grand Master in November, reappointed them for the term of three years subject to approval of the Grand Lodge, and which appointment was duly confirmed by the Grand Lodge.

The membership, August 31, A. D. 1907, was 68,679, an increase of 3,574 over last year, and the largest gain since 1903, which remains the banner year.

SUPREME COURT DECISION

"On June 18 of this year, the Supreme Court of Ohio decided the famous New England Lodge No.4 case in favor of the legitimate body, thereby restoring to it the property of which it has been deprived for nearly twelve years.

"While we congratulate New England Lodge No.4 on the recovery of its historic property, this Grand Lodge has infinitely more cause of congratulating itself, as this decision probably forever decides the property rights of all legitimate Masonic bodies, and is a complete recognition by the highest tribunal of the state of the authority and supremacy of the Grand Lodge in the management and conduct of its affairs."

A full statement of the facts in this ease and the brief of M.·. W.·. Bro. Allen Andrews of counsel for the Grand Lodge, will be found in the first volume of this history, and his report to the Grand Master will be found in the proceedings of 1907.

Dispensations were granted for new Lodges at the following places:

November 14, 1906, Clarington Lodge, at Clarington.
February 26, 1907, Enoch T. Carson Lodge, at Cincinnati.
October 10, 1907, received petition for a new Lodge to be called Euclid Lodge, and located at Cleveland, which is referred to the Committee on Charters.

Proxies were issued to the following Brothers to dedicate Masonic Temples and Halls, lay corner stones, etc.:

October 13, 1906, to M.·. W.·. Bro. Allen Andrews, to dedicate the Masonic Temple at Portsmouth, October 26; October 13, 1906, to M.·. W.·. Bro. F. S. Harmon, to dedicate the new Masonic Temple at Elyria, October 18; October 18, 1906, to M. Bro. C. F. Clapp, to lay the corner stone of the West Side Christian Church at Warren, October 21; October 29, 1906, to R.·. W.·. Bro. Harry S. Kissell, to constitute Ostrander Lodge No.594, November 5; November 13, 1906, to R.·. W.·. Bro. B. F. Perry, to dedicate Woodward Masonic Temple at Cleveland, November 14; January 15, 1907, to W. Bro. J. W. Moore, to dedicate the Lodge room of Homeworth Lodge No.499, January 19; February 16, 1907, to M.·. W.·. Bro. F. S. Harmon, to represent the Grand Master at the funeral of M.·. W.·. Bro. C. A. Woodward; September 13, 1907, to M.·. W.·. Bro. I. M. Robinson, to lay the corner stone of the Masonic Temple at Marietta, October 7; September 28, 1907, to R.·. W.·. Bro. C. S. Hoskinson, to dedicate the Hall of Lowell Lodge No.436, at Lowell, October 8; October 22, 1906, to M.·. W.·. H. A. Irvin, to dedicate the Lodge rooms at Kalida; November 2, 1906, to M.·. W.·. Bro. L. P. Schaus, to dedicate the Lodge room of Neoaeacia Lodge No. 595, at Columbus; July 11, 1906, to M.·. W.·. Bro. H. A. Irvin, to dedicate the Lodge room of Pharos Lodge No.355, at St. Paris; July 25, 1906, to M.·. W.·. Bro. H. A. Irvin, to dedicate the Lodge room of Waynesville Lodge No.163, Waynesville.
Lodges constituted:

On October 31, 1906, M.·. W.·. Bro. L. P. Schaus, constituted Neoacacia Lodge No.595, at Columbus, and installed its Officers; on October 5, 1906 R.·. W.·. Harry S. Kissell, constituted Ostrander Lodge No.594; and installed its Officers.

Full reports were made by these Brethren of the performance of the duties assigned to them.

The Grand Master presided at the ceremonies of laying the corner stones of the following edifices:

October 16, 1906, laying the corner stone of the Masonic Temple at Dayton.
June 20, 1907, laying the corner stone of the new auditorium at Miami University, Oxford, Ohio.
August 28, 1907, laying the corner stone of Christ's Episcopal Church, Xenia.
October 2, 1907, laying the corner stone of the new Masonic Temple at Greenville.

Reports visitation of twenty-five Lodges, at each of which he was received with splendid courtesy and generous hospitality due the representative of this Grand Lodge.

The Grand Master reported a number of decisions which were approved by the Grand Lodge.

The Grand Master received from the Secretary of New England Lodge No.4 at different times the petitions of the following former members of said Lodge who were expelled for associating themselves with the clandestine so-called New England Lodge No.4 at Worthington, and the clandestine so-called Grand Lodge formed at Worthington, the legitimate Lodge having unanimously voted recommending the restoration of said members, they having fully renounced all connection with or allegiance to all bodies declared clandestine by this Grand Lodge, and declared full allegiance to this Grand Lodge and its legitimate subordinates, viz.: Harry R. Hughett, C. G. Moore, Charles F. White, Nathan Pinney, Aaron P. Spencer, Charles F. Pinney, and Charles F. Hinds, who were members of New England Lodge when its charter was arrested in 1891, and the following who were expelled by this Grand Lodge at its session of 1891, viz.: Justin Pinney, J. R. Topping, and D. H. Welling, all of which are referred to the Committee on Masonic Jurisprudence for examination and report.

The Grand Treasurer submitted his report showing the balance on hand October 8, 1907, general fund, $55,596.94.

The Emergency Relief Fund:

October 11, 1906, received from L. P. Schaus, Past Grand Master . . . . . . . $2,184.60
September 21, 1907, received from Grand Master of California . . . . . . . . . . 1,600.00
Interest on deposit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43.69
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$3,828.29

The Grand Secretary presented his report congratulating the Grand Lodge and the Secretaries of the Subordinate Lodges on the fact that all the annual returns and Grand dues were in his hands prior to September 30, 1907; that the increase of membership was 3,574, an increase over last year of 105; reports that the duplication of the returns of 1906 were completed and bound and deposited in the vault at the Masonic Home, and recommends the Secretaries of the Subordinate Lodges use good ink, instead of typewriting the returns which fades in a few years, while we have returns of 1809 which are as legible as the day they were made.

The only indebtedness is the per capita tax to the Masonic Home amounting to $20,603.70, and recommends an additional donation of $12,000.00 to the Masonic Home, $6,000.00 to the general and $6,000.00 to the endowment fund, which recommendation was approved by the Committees on Charity and Accounts, and adopted by the Grand Lodge and the appropriation made.

Reports that the supply of the Code is nearly exhausted and the Grand Secretary has commenced the preparation of a new revision, rearrangement, and new index of the Code, and estimates the expense of a thorough revision at $3,000.00 and offers to make the compilation and revise the publication thereof.

M.·. W.·. Bro. Wm. B. Melish offered the following which was adopted:

"Resolved, That this Grand Lodge receive with hearty appreciation the offer of the R.·. W.·. Grand Secretary to revise the Code of Laws, and to make a compilation of the Decisions, and to arrange and index the laws of the Grand Lodge, etc., and to superintend the publication of the same."

M.·. W.·. Bro. Leander Burdick presented the report of the Board of Trustees of the Ohio Masonic Home and the report of the Superintendent and Secretary, which are printed in the proceedings. The amounts contributed by the Grand Bodies of Ohio at their 1906 sessions, were:

Grand Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $31,531.50
Chapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8,174.75
Council . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,500.00
Comniandery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3,500.00
Council Anointed High Priests . . . . 500.00
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$46,206.25

In addition to this the Ohio Council of Deliberation of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite for the Northern Jurisdiction, realizing the necessity of adding to the capacity of the Home, made an appeal to the several bodies located in Ohio for funds sufficient to add an additional story to the rear part of the main building, which appeal was generously responded to, and the sum of $16,400.00 was contributed, and the work is nearly completed, which has improved the dining room and added thirty additional rooms over that part of the building.

"It has been practically demonstrated that Lodge, Chapter, Council, Commandery, Scottish Rite, and Order of the Eastern Star have all been greatly interested in promoting and sustaining this worthy charity, and we sincerely believe that no other Masonic work in Ohio has ever or will ever be, accomplished that will reflect greater honor on our beloved Fraternity than the establishment of the Ohio Masonic Home.

The members of the Eastern Star, God bless them appreciating the necessity of having suitable accommodations for those who become seriously ill at the Home, have built and furnished a beautiful hospital building, donating the same to the Trustees, which has provided for a necessity that had long existed prior to this noble act of those who took upon themselves the accomplishment of the work."

The Endowment Fund was increased by donations from various Grand and Subordinate Masonic Bodies and individual Masons, among which was the bequest of our late lamented Brother and late President of the Board, John M. Stull, of $1,000.00, the total amount of such donations, including accrued interest on investments, amounting to $14,320.98, a good showing for one year. The total Endowment Fund 15 $74,149.33.

The number of residents at the Home are: Men, 63; women, 42; boys, 28; girls, 23. Total, 156.

The Committee on Masonic History reported that only 225 Subordinate Lodges had filed and reported the blanks sent out for the purpose of obtaining a brief history of the organization, etc., of the Lodges, and request the Grand Secretary send the District Lecturers lists of the Lodges who have failed to report within their districts and urge on them a prompt compliance with the orders of the Grand Lodge, which was adopted and the committee continued for the purpose of preparing the history.

The Committee on the S. Stacker Williams monument reported the sum of $1,200.89 on hand, donated for the purpose of erecting a suitable monument at his grave, which they consider sufficient for that purpose, and the committee was continued until such stone could be procured and erected.

Telegrams of greeting were sent to the Grand Lodges of Kentucky and Wisconsin now in session and proper responses received.

The Grand Master called attention of the Grand Lodge to the fact that this was the birthday of one of the most distinguished Masons in the United States, and by authority of the Grand Lodge, sent the following telegram:

"Canton, Ohio, October 17, 1907. "
Henry L. Palmer,
Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

The Grand Lodge of Ohio in Annual Communication at Canton, mindful of the eighty-eighth anniversary of America's most distinguished Mason, extends to him sincere greetings and felicitations on this notable occasion.

Horace A. Irvin, Grand Master."

To which the following response was received from the distinguished Brother:

Horace A. Irvin, Grand Master, Grand Lodge of Ohio.

I have received a dispatch, signed by you as Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Ohio, conveying the greetings and felicitations of that distinguished body of Freemasons on the occasion of my eighty-eighth birthday. I wish to thank you personally, and the Grand Lodge of Ohio, for this kind remembrance, and I beg to assure you that it was most highly appreciated.
Henry L. Palmer."

Charters were granted to the following new Lodges:

Brookville No.596, at Brookville, Montgomery County
Clarington No.597, at Clarington, Monroe County
F. T. Carson No.598, at Cincinnati

A dispensation was granted for Euclid Lodge U. D. to be located at Cleveland.

The Committee on Foreign Correspondence to whom the request of the Grand Lodge of Saskatchewan for recognition was referred, report in favor of the same, which report was adopted.

The committee on the S. Stacker Williams library reported that it had entered into an agreement with the Masonic Library Association of Cincinnati, in pursuance of which the library, complete, containing about seven thousand volumes, has been shipped to Cincinnati and placed in the custody of the Cincinnati Masonic Library Association of Cincinnati, with the privilege of using and circulating the same among its members under the rules of its own library, but it is to be always kept intact, and under the control of this Grand Lodge until such time as it shall make suitable arrangements for its permanent care and preservation as a distinctive Grand Lodge Library, no part of it to be sold, or given away except by the express authority of the Grand Lodge, and that the ownership thereof shall remain in the Grand Lodge, but it is not to incur any expense in relation thereto except the insurance. The library has been shelved in room 12, Masonic Temple, Cincinnati, at a cost of about $400.00, which was donated by the Masons of Cincinnati, which report was adopted and the action of the committee approved.

Brother George D. Copeland, of Marion, was elected M.·. W.·. Grand Master; Bro. C. S. Hoskinson, of Zanesville, R.·. W.·. Deputy Grand Master; Bro. B. F. Perry, R., of Jefferson, R.·. W.·. Senior Grand Warden; Bro. Harry S. Kissell, of Springileld, R.·. W.·. Junior Grand Warden; Bro. Ralph R. Rickly re-elected R.·. W.·. Grand Treasurer, and Bro. I. H. Bromwell, of Cincinnati, re-elected R.·. W.·. Grand Secretary, and they and the appointive Officers, were duly installed.

The Committee on Masonic Jurisprudence, to whom was referred the petitions of various members of New England Lodge No.4, to be restored to good Masonic standing, reported as follows:

"The charter of New England Lodge No.4 was arrested April, 1891, for rebellious and un-masonic conduct. By this action all the members lost their Lodge membership, but were entitled to make application respectively to the Grand Secretary for certificates of good standing in Masonry, which certificates would, on such applications, be granted or refused according to the merits or demerits of each applicant. Now, among these members are Bros. C. G. Moore, Chas. F. White, Nathan Pinney, Aaron P. Spencer, Chas. F. Pinney, Chas. F. hinds and Harry R. lluggett, who have not affiliated with any Lodge since the arrest of said charter. They now come and ask to be placed in good Masonic standing. Subsequent to the arrest of the charter, the Grand Lodge restored or granted a substitute charter to the loyal members of the Lodge who had not engaged in the rebellious and un-masonic conduct, and they resumed work again as New England Lodge No.4. The Lodge now, and also the Grand Master, recommend that the prayer of the Brethren above named be granted. In order to do this there is nothing to do but for the Grand Secretary to issue the certificates of good standing, and we now recommend that this be done.

"Some of those, however, who were members of the Lodge when the charter was arrested, together with some members of other Lodges who bad been engaged in the rebellion against the Grand Lodge, were put to trial and duly expelled from all the rights and benefits of Masonry by the Grand Lodge at its Annual Communication, 1891. (See proceedings 1891, page 48.) Among these, Mr. Justin Pinney, Mr. J. R. Topping and Mr. D. H Welling, now petition the Grand Lodge for restoration to the rights and benefits of Masonry. New England Lodge No.4, and the Grand Master also, recommend that the prayer of this petition be granted, and in this recommendation this committee concur."

M.·. W.·. Bro. Allen Andrews moved the adoption of the report. M.·. W.·. Bro. Levi C. Goodale asked for a separate vote on that portion of the report relating to the restoration of Justin Pinney, J. R. Topping, and D. H. Welling to good standing in the Order, which was allowed by the Grand Master.

After extended discussion the recommendation of the committee as to the reinstatement of Justin Pinney, the Grand Lodge resolved to postpone the matter for further consideration until the next Annual Grand Communication. As to the recommendation that J. R. Topping and B. H. Welling be reinstated, the Grand Lodge adopted the recommendation, and directed the Grand Secretary to issue certificates accordingly.

The balance of the report in relation to the issuing of certificates to the other applicants as recommended by the committee the Grand Lodge adopted.

The committee called attention to the fact that the action of the Grand Secretary in issuing certificates to the former class and of the Grand Lodge in restoring the latter class to the rights and benefits of Masonry have the effect to make them Masons in good standing, but non-affiliates; and that to gain admission to a Lodge, each must make application to the Lodge of his choice and can Ile admitted to Lodge membership in such Lodge only by the action of the Lodge and after ballot in the regular way; which statement and decision were approved by the Grand Lodge.

M.·. W.·. Bro. Nelson Williams, M.·. W.·. Bro. L. P. Schaus and W. Bro. M. L. Finuell were appointed a committee to procure and present to M. .W. .Bro. Horace A. Irvin, retiring Grand Master, a Past Grand Master's jewel.

The Committee on Centennial Celebration reported recommending that an appropriation of $5,000.00 be made and set apart for the purpose of properly celebrating the anniversary of the organization of this Grand Lodge, the same to be held during the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge in the year 1908, and a majority of the committee, six in number, voted in favor of holding such communication and celebration in the city of Cincinnati, and the minority, three in number, voted in favor of holding the same in the city of Columbus, and the committee recommended it be held in Cincinnati, Wednesday, October 21, A. B. 1908.

A motion to strike out Cincinnati as the place and insert Columbus was, on a rising vote, lost, and the report was adopted as read and the Committee on Accounts reported in favor of appropriating the sum of $5,000.00 for this purpose, which was adopted.

The Committee on Foreign Correspondence presented its report which is printed in the proceedings, covering 361 pages, reviewing the proceedings of 63 English speaking and 16 non-English speaking Grand Lodges.

The introductory contains letters from Wm. James Hughan of Torquay, England; Robert Freke Gould and a sketch of his lecture on "The Filiation of Speculative" (or Symbolic Masonry) ; articles on "Early Freemasonry in France;" "The 1717 English Freemasonry in France;" "Albert Pike and Symbolic Lodges;" "Physical Perfection;" "Correspondences;" "Past Master's Degree," etc.

The general review of the various Grand Lodges presents numerous articles and reviews of the general history, condition, and progress of Masonry throughout the world, together with reliable information relating to Masonic procedure and jurisprudence, that is of general interest to all active and thinking Masons, and should be perused by all members of the craft.

The Ohio Masonic Veterans' Association met in the Masonic Temple, October 16, 1907, at 5 :30 p. m., with Venerable Bro. Leander Burdick, President, in the Chair.

A large class of applicants was elected, introduced, instructed and welcomed as Venerable Brethren, and the routine business transacted. Ven. Bro. Wm. M. Cunningham was elected President for the ensuing year.

The Brethren enjoyed a splendid banquet prepared by the local Brethren and committee, for which a vote of thanks was tendered.

On Wednesday, October 21, A. D. 1908, at 9:15 o'clock a. m., the Officers and members of the Grand Lodge assembled at the Hotel Sinton, Cincinnati, and were escorted by the Centennial Committee with military bands to the Music hall, where the session of the Grand Lodge were to be held.

The Grand Lodge and visiting Brethren in large numbers, having taken their places, were entertained by an organ recital by Bro. John Yoakley. This was followed by a rendition of Mozart's Invocation by the Scottish Rite double quartet, of Cincinnati. Rev. and R.·. W.·. Bro. Paul R. Hickok, Grand Chaplain, invoked the blessing of Deity on the session, after which R.·. W.·. Bro. Edward F. Shipley, Grand Orator, delivered an address of welcome, which was responded to by R.·. W.·. Deputy Grand Master Bro. C. S. Hoskinson.

Hon. Leopold Markbreit, Mayor of the city of Cincinnati, paid a most beautiful tribute to the Fraternity, and on behalf of the city, bade the Grand Lodge welcome, to which the M.·. W.·. Grand Master Bro. George B. Copeland, responded.

The Scottish Rite double quartet sang "Lift Thine Eyes," by Mendelssohn, and "Charity," by Nembach.

This was followed by various announcements made by M.·. W.·. Bro. Wm. B. Melish, chairman of the general committee of the Grand Lodge, as to the program of entertainment provided by the committee.

Following these announcements, a party composed of fifty of the boys and girls of the Ohio Masonic Home was presented to the assembled audience, and rendered a number of glees and patriotic songs, concluding with "Home, Sweet Home."

All who were not entitled to remain within the Hall as members of the Fraternity having withdrawn, the M.·. W.·. Grand Master proceeded to open a Lodge of Master Masons, the Grand Officers occupying their respective stations.

The Grand Lodge was opened in ample form, with M.·. W.·. Bro. George B. Copeland, Grand Master in the East, all the Grand Officers in their respective stations, Past Grand Masters W. M. Cunningham, J. M. Goodspeed, Leander Burdick, Levi C. Goodale, Allen Andrews, C. F. Clapp, William B. Melish, Barton Smith, Nelson Williams, E. C. Gulliford, E. L. Lybarger, Frank S. Harmon, Ike M. Robinson, W. A. Belt, O. P. Sperra, C. G. Ballou, Lewis P. Schaus, and Horace A. Irvin, Past Deputy Grand Masters W. J. Akers and J. L'H. Long, twenty-four District Lecturers, and the representatives of 508 of the 514 active Lodges in attendance.

The Grand Master read his address referring in a pleasing and eloquent manner to the fact that on the 4th of January, A. D. 1808, the representatives of a handful of Lodges met in the town of Chillicothe, for the purpose of forming a Grand Lodge of Masons for the State of Ohio, and on the last days of that year were again on their way to hold the first Communication of this Grand Lodge, which was held on January 2, A. D. 1809, the one hundredth anniversary of which we now celebrate, and congratulating the craft on the fact that during this time the handful of Masons had grown to over seventy-two thousand active, earnest and faithful members; and the history of Ohio for the last one hundred years has been largely the centennial history of Masonry; and that we could point with pride to the long list of distinguished patriots and statesmen who had served our state and nation in positions of high honor and trust, and who had taken from the designs upon the trestle board in our Lodges, the inspiration for lives which have left their impress upon the pages of history.

Calls attention to the death of and pays proper tribute to the following distinguished Brothers of this jurisdiction, viz.:

Bro. Robert V. Hampson, who died at Salem, Ohio, January 14, 1908. He was Past Grand Commander of the Grand Commandery of the State of Ohio, and at the time of his death was serving as Grand Treasurer of the Grand Chapter R. A. M. of Ohio, and Grand Treasurer of the Grand Council It. & S. M. of Ohio, and was an honorary member of the Supreme Council A. A. S. R. for the Northern Jurisdiction.

On the 17th of April, 1908, Illustrious Bro. Henry C. Urner, Thirty-third Degree, died at Cincinnati, where he was horn April 30, 1830, and lived during his entire lifetime. He was initiated in Kuwinning Lodge No.356, June 10, 1870, became a Royal Arch Mason in Cincinnati Chapter No.2, April 3, 1871, a Royal and Select Master in Cincinnati Council No.1, June 19, 1871, created a Knight Templar in Cincinnati Commandery No.3, May 22, 1871, received the Thirty-second Degree in Ohio Consistory A. A. S. R., January 21, 1871, the Thirty-third Degree in the Supreme Council, November 17, 1873, and was crowned an active member, September 19, 1899.

On July 5, 1908, Bro. A. H. Snider, President of the Marietta Masonic Building Company, died at Marietta.

Highly commends the District Lecturers for their zeal and fidelity, every Subordinate Lodge in the state having been inspected during the year.

The Past Grand Master's jewel voted to M.·. W.·. Bro. Horace A. Irvin, retiring Grand Master, at the last session, was presented to him by M.·. W.·. Bro. Nelson Williams, P. G. M., during the ceremonies of the dedication of the Masonic Temple at Dayton, the Grand Master having the pleasure of being present at this pleasant ceremony.

The Grand Master reappointed M.·. W.·. Bro. F. L. Lybarger, P. G. M., and M.·. W.·. Bro. Nelson Williams, P. G. M., as Trustees of the Masonic Home for three years from January 1, 1908.

At a meeting of the Centennial Committee held at Cincinnati, March 4, 1908, it was decided that a Masonic History of Ohio should be prepared by M.·. W.·. Bro. W. M. Cunningham, Past Grand Master, who has been a Master Mason for fifty-eight years, and who has personally attended every communication of the Grand Lodge of Ohio for the last fifty-four years, and is the chairman of the Committee on Masonic History; and I accordingly appointed Bro. W. M. Cunningham, Grand Historian of Ohio.

Dispensations were issued for new Lodges at the following places:

October 27, 1907, Euclid Lodge, at Cleveland.
March 20, 1908, Brenton D. Babcock Lodge, at Cleveland. This petition was signed by one hundred petitioners.
March 21, 1908, Lakewood Lodge, at Lakewood.
April 17, 1908, West LaFayette Lodge, at West LaFayette.
September 16, 1908, received a petition for a new Lodge at Aurora, Portage County, which is referred to the Committee on Charters.

Having received satisfactory evidence that Clarington Lodge No.597 was free from debt, in compliance with the directions of this Grand Lodge at its last session, I, on November 9, 1907, issued and delivered the charter granted said Lodge.

Corner stones of the following Masonic and public buildings were laid by the Grand Master or Brothers acting as his proxy:

October 21, 1907, to M.·. W.·. Bro. Horace A. Irvin, the corner stone of the new Masonic Temple at Troy; November 24, 1907, to R.·. W.·. Bro. B. F. Perry, Jr., the corner stone of the Children's Home of Mahoning County; April 4, 1908, M.·. W.·. Bro. Geo. D. Copeland, Grand Master, the corner stone of a new public building at Wyoming; June 11, 1908, M.·. W.·. Geo. D. Copeland, Grand Master, the corner stone of the Court House at Youngstown; August 16, 1908, to R.·. W.·. Bro. J. H. Bromwell, the corner stone of a new school building at Madisonville; August 16, 1908, to R.·. W.·. Bro. Paul B. Hiekok, the corner stone of the Second Presbyterian Church at East Liverpool; September 1, 1908, to Bro. G. C. Maurer, the corner stone of the Union Hospital at New Philadelphia; October 10, 1908, to Bro. F. F. McCombs, the corner stone of the Shadyside School House.

The following Masonic Temples and Lodge rooms were dedicated by M.·. W.·. George D. Copeland, Grand Master:

November 19, 1907, Masonic Temple at Dayton; January 2, 1908, Masonic Lodge rooms at Cleveland; June 24, 1908, Masonic Temple at Lancaster; September 1, 1908, Masonic Temple at Marietta; October 1, 1908, Masonic Lodge rooms at Greenville.

The following Brothers acting as proxy of the Grand Master, dedicated the following Masonic Lodge rooms:

December 19, 1907, Bro. A. L Rawlings, Masonic Lodge rooms at Brownsville; January 14, 1908, Bro. B. S. Fogle, Masonic Lodge rooms at Payne; February 15, 1908, Bro. G. A. Reuter, Masonic Lodge rooms at Celina; April 29, 1908, Bro. W. A. Smurthwaite, Masonic Lodge rooms at Steubenville; June 24, 1908, Bro. Walton H. Parker, Masonic Lodge rooms at Stockport.

The following Lodges chartered at the last session were duly constituted and their Officers installed by the following Brothers acting as proxies for the Grand Master:

November 28, 1907, Bro. F. F. McCombs, Clarington Lodge No.597, at Clarington; November 1, 1907, M.·. W.·. Bro. L. C. Goodale, Enoch T. Carson Lodge No.598, Cincinnati; December 6, 1907, M.·. W.·. Bro. H. A. Irvin, Brookville Lodge No.596, at Brookville.

Reports a large number of visitations at which he was received and treated with the utmost courtesy and hospitality befitting the representative of this Grand Lodge.

Reports nine decisions which were approved.

On April 28, 1908, the Lodge room, property and records of Peebles Lodge No.581 were destroyed by fire, and on August 2, 1908, the Lodge room and all the personal property and charter of Bellville Lodge No.376, at Bellville, were destroyed by fire, and a dispensation was issued authorizing the Lodge to continue work until the close of this session, and a new charter is recommended.

An attempt was made to organize a clandestine Lodge of Masons in Cleveland early in the year by advertising in the city papers that one thousand men were wanted to join at $10.00 per capita. Bros. Frank S. Harmon, M.·. W.·. Past Grand Master, and Edwin S. Griffiths, W. Tumor Grand Deacon, succeeded in having the papers discontinue such advertisement, and the matter seems to need no further attention.

The people of Ohio are to be congratulated upon not being misled into joining an institution, membership in which can only bring upon them the contempt and detestation of all good Masons.

The Grand Treasurer submitted his report showing a balance on hand October 1, 1908, in the general fund, $58,564.60, and in the emergency relief fund, including interest, $4,027.76.

The Grand Secretary presented his report showing the membership, August 31, 1908, 72,339, a gain of 3,660, and a gain over last year of 86, being within 31 of 1903, which remains the banner year.

While the net gain of 1903 still stands as the largest, the gross gain of this year exceeds that of any previous year.

This being the twentieth report of the Grand Secretary, the following table is inserted showing the wonderful increase in membership and annual income during the past twenty years:

Year	Number of Lodges	Number of embers	Annual Gain in Members	Annual Income
1889 1890 1891 1892 1893 1894 1895 1896 1897 1898 1899 1900 1901 1902 1903 1904 1905 1906 1907 1908	488 490 493 495 495 494 498 497 498 500 501 503 499 499 501 503 505 507 510 514	34,184 34,840 35,603 37,044 38,089 38,851 39,906 40,839 41,713 42,848 44,201 46,348 48,349 51,374 55,065 58,243 61,636 65,105 68,679 72,339	966 656 1,333 1,441 1,045 762 1,055 933 874 1,135 1,353 2,147 2,001 3.025 3,691 3,178 3,393 3,469 3,574 3,660	$16,956.86 16,996.61 18,188.78 18,703.21 18,540.20 18,558.88 20,364.42 26,998.0l 26,165.67 27,931.41 33,444.50 35,940.98 37,341.71 40,955.03 44,625.08 46,115.55 50,958.04 51,373.11 *57,404.91 55,466.04

Showing Increase in number of Lodges . . . . . . . . . . 26
Increase in number of Members . . . . . . . . . . . . .38,155
Average gain each year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,908
Increase in annual income . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$38,509.18

*This includes the Emergency fund, amounting to $3,828.29.

Tile relative standing, in point of membership, of Ohio with several other Grand Jurisdictions, taken from the last Annual Proceedings on file, is as follows:

New York has 779 Lodges, and a membership of 152,928
Illinois . . . . . 759 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85,583
Pennsylvania .470 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84,341
Michigan . . . 405 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58,542
Missouri . . . . 593 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45,348

It will be seen from this that Ohio comes after Pennsylvania, or fourth in the list.

The only indebtedness is the per capita tax due the Masonic Home, amounting to $21,701.70, and an additional donation of $10,000.00 is recommended for the Home, $5,000.00 to the general and $5,000.00 to the endowment fund, which recommendation was concurred in by the Committees on Charity and Accounts, and approved by the Grand Lodge, and the appropriation made.

Reports the revision of the Code is completed except the index which will be completed soon after this session. The work has been approved by the Committee on Masonic Jurisprudence.

Practically all the spurious, clandestine Lodges have ceased work and become extinct, but as some of their members bold certificates and dimits, for the purpose of warning and protecting Lodges in this and sister jurisdictions, a list of such so-called Lodges is printed for the information of the Officers and members of the Lodges in this and other jurisdictions.

The following distinguished Brothers being present, were received, introduced to the Grand Lodge, and welcomed with Grand Honors:

M.·. W.·. Bro. Chas. M. Mikels, Grand Master of Indiana; R. Em. Sir Edwin B. King, Grand Commander Knights Templars of Ohio; M. Ex. Ed. H. Archer, Grand High Priest, Grand Chapter of Ohio; M.·. W.·. Warren J. Baker, Grand Master of the Grand Council R. & S. M. of Ohio; M.·. W.·. Barton Smith, Deputy for Ohio of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite; and M. Em. William B. Melish, Deputy Grand Master of the Grand Encampment of the United States, Knights Templars. Each made a proper response thanking the Grand Lodge for the courtesy.

Charters were granted to the following new Lodges:

Euclid No.599, at Cleveland
Brenton D. Babcock No.600, at Cleveland
Lakewood No.601, at Lakewood, Cuyahoga County
West LaFayette No.602, at West LaFayette, Coshocton County

The applications of East Gate at Columbus, and Sugar Creek Valley at Strasburg were rcferred to the incoming Grand Master for investigation and action.

The Committee on Foreign Correspondence submitted a special report acknowledging the courtesies extended to this Grand Lodge in their Masonic papers and communications for its special use, by V. W. Bro. Robert Freke Gould, of Kingsfield, Woking, England; V. W. Bro. Wm. Jas. Hughan, of Torquay, England; and R.·. W.·. Bro. Dr. W. J. Chetwode Crawley, Grand Treasurer of the M.·. W.·. Grand Lodge of Ireland, respectfully recommend that these three eminent Masons and distinguished authors be, and are hereby constituted Honorary Members of the M.·. W.·. Grand Lodge F. and A. M. of Ohio; which report was adopted and the recommendation concurred in.

The Committee on Masonic History reported that finding cooperative work in this connection not only ill advised and unsatisfactory, but difficult in execution, and deeming it for the best interests of the proposed historical work, they delegated its compilation and the work connected therewith to the chairman of the committee, who had compiled and completed the manuscript of the first volume and had the same ready for the printer for publication, and bids have been received from two competent printers. The manuscript of volume 1 has been approved by the Grand Master and the committee recommends its publication and the preparation of two additional volumes, which report and recommendation were approved by the Grand Lodge.

The committee on S. S. Williams monument was continued to next Annual Communication to enable it to complete the duties assigned to it.

The Committee on Masonic Jurisprudence reported on the applications of Bros. F. E. Chambers and S. S. Pinney of New England Lodge No.4 for restoration to good standing in Masonry in favor of these applicants, it appearing they had not joined or participated in the rebellious and un-masonic acts against this Grand Lodge, said S. S. Pinney not being at that time a member of said Lodge, and being a resident of Virginia, which report and recommendations were approved by the Grand Lodge and the Grand Secretary directed to issue proper certificates to them.

The case and application of Justin Pinney was continued to the next Annual Communication, as the Brethren having the ease, were not ready to submit the evidence.

The same committee reported adversely to permitting the organization known as the "White Shrine of Jerusalem" being permitted to use Masonic Halls for meeting purposes, which report was adopted by the Grand Lodge.

Brother C. S. Hoskinson, of Zanesville, was elected M.·. W.·. Grand Master; Bro. B. F. Perry, Jr., of Jefferson, R.·. W.·. Deputy Grand Master; Bro. Harry S. Kissell, of Springfield, R.·. W.·. Senior Grand Warden; Bro. Thomas B. Guitteau, of Toledo, R.·. W.·. Junior Grand Warden; and Bro. Ralph R. Rickly, of Columbus, re-elected R.·. W.·. Grand Treasurer, and Bro. J. H. Bromwell, of Cincinnati, R.·. W.·. Grand Secretary, and they and the appointive Officers were duly installed.

Cleveland was selected as the place and Wednesday, October 20, A. D. 1909, as the time for holding the next Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge.

M.·. W.·. Bros. Nelson Williams, Horace A. Irvin, and Frank S. Harmon were appointed a committee to procure and present to M.·. W.·. Bro. George D. Copeland, retiring Grand Master, a Past Grand Master's jewel.

The local Centennial Committee announced that a special program for the entertainment of the Grand Lodge and visitors had been arranged at the Zoological Garden this afternoon, consisting of a special band concert by Bellstedt's famous band, an exhibition drill by the Drill Corps of Hanselmaun Commandery No.16, Knights Templars, one of the prize winners at the last Triennial Conclave, music by the Hanselmann Military Band, parade and review by the Refuge Home Cadets, accompanied by the Boys' Military Band, and other special features of amusement and entertainment

M.·. W.·. Bro. Wm. B. Melish, chairman of the Centennial Celebration Committee, submitted a verbal and partial report, stating it was the intention of the committee, if permitted by the Grand Lodge, to prepare a complete and detailed report, as a separate document, and mail the same to the Officers and members of the Grand Lodge. That after this is accomplished the committee will make a complete financial statement and report of the work of the committee to the Grand Lodge at its next Annual Communication.

On motion, it was resolved that the Committee on Centennial Celebration be permitted to publish a separate report of their doings as a committee, and to pay the expense of the same from the Centennial Celebration Fund already placed at their disposal; which report and resolution was unanimously adopted.

By rising vote it was unanimously resolved that the thanks of this Grand Lodge be extended to the Centennial Committee and the Masons of Hamilton County for their zealous and elaborate entertainment of this Grand Body and its individual members.

M.·. W.·. Bro. Wm. B. Melish, referring to the fact that there was present upon the platform a Venerable Brother who had been a Mason for over fifty years, and was distinguished not only in Masonry, but in the circles of his church throughout the world, introduced Reverend Bro. John M. Walden, Bishop of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and a member of McMakin Lodge No.120 of this Grand Jurisdiction. To this pleasant introduction the Reverend Brother responded with much feeling, and expressed his appreciation of the compliment.

The Trustees of the Ohio Masonic Home presented their report, together with the report of the Superintendent, which are printed in the proceedings.

The amounts contributed by the Grand Bodies of Ohio at the 1907 sessions, were:

Grand Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $32,603.70
" Chapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9,172.75
" Council . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,500.00
" Commandery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3,500.00
" Council Anointed High Priests . . . . . . . . . . . . 250.00
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $47,026.45

Scottish Rite Masons for new building . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16,737.19
Blue Lodges for furnishing rooms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2,365.66
Grand Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$66,129.30

The appeal to the Scottish Rite Brethren of Ohio for $15,000.00 for the purpose of adding two additional stories to the dining room building met with the following generous response:

Cincinnati . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$5,000.00
Columbus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3,600.00
Cleveland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3,000.00
Toledo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,500.00
Dayton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,483.05
Canton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .317.50
Steubenville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 271.00
Youngstown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 250.00
Cambridge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10.00
Add interest in funds deposited . . . . . . . . 104.74
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $16,737.19

The lower floor of the new addition, containing thirty-one pleasant bedrooms, is now furnished and is being gradually filled with occupants. The upper floor, which will contain twenty bedrooms, will b filled later. Ths improvement is not only a great convenience, but adds much to the appearance of the entire place. We are very grateful to our Scottish Rite Brethren for their liberality.

The Trustees decided to appeal to the Blue Lodges that had not contributed to the original furnishing of rooms of the Home, asking the sum of $75.00 for each room. Twenty-four Lodges responded with that amount each, and a number of Lodges and Brethren sent smaller donations, the total amount to date being $2,365,66.

The endowment fund was increased during the past year from donations of Grand and Subordinate Bodies and members in the sum of $18,107.22, and that fund now amounts to the sum of $91,626.98.

The present residents are: Men, 66; women, 43; boys, 28; girls, 21. Total, 160.

We have still on our rolls thirty above eighty years, four of them above ninety years, and two having reached ninety-three years. The average age of our old folks is seventy-four years. The general health of the residents is good considering their advanced ages. We have lost but one child by death in our entire history, and that was from disease contracted away from the Home.

The hospital erected and furnished by the Order of the Eastern Star of Ohio is nobly fulfilling its mission, and is of great value and service in caring for our sick and disabled, many of whom are constantly within its precincts. 'The view from the building is superb and is greatly enjoyed by the occupants.

The various Chapters of the Order of the Eastern Star and bodies and individual members of the various Masonic Bodies in Ohio, made their usual liberal contributions of money and supplies to provide for the Thanksgiving and Christmas festivities, all of which were highly appreciated.

The Committee on Foreign Correspondence submitted their general report covering 391 pages and reviewing the proceedings of 65 English speaking and 16 non-English speaking Grand Lodges. This is the twenty-seventh annual report of this committee, prepared and submitted by M.·. W.·. Bro. Wm. M. Cunningham as chairman of the Foreign Correspondence Committee of this Grand Lodge, and who is recognized as the Dean of Foreign Correspondents by the Masonic Fraternity throughout the world, and one of the best equipped and informed Masons in the United States. His Foreign Correspondence Reports to this Grand Lodge during the past twenty-seven years contain the best history of the current events and transactions of the various Grand Lodges in the world, and the views of their various correspondents, and a fund of information in relation to their organization procedure, and progress that can not be found in any other volume, magazine or set of papers, and any student of Masonry and its tenets and history should carefully read each one of the valuable and instructive reports.

The introductory of the present report contains interesting articles on "The Value of Masonic Diplomas or Certificates in Great Britain," by Wm. James Hughan; "Masonic Diplomas or Certificates in Ireland," by W. J. Chetwode Crawley; "Prehistoric Freemasonry," by Robert Freke Gould; "Symbolism," and a number of other instructive articles, and the usual review of the various Grand Lodges.

Grand Lodge convened in the Hall of the Chamber of Commerce, Cleveland, Ohio, Wednesday, October 20, A. D. 1909, with Grand Master Charles S. Hoskinson in the Chair, all the other Grand Officers in their stations; Past Grand Masters Leander Burdick, Levi C. Goodale, Allen Andrews, Carroll F. Clapp, William B. Melish, Barton Smith, Nelson Williams, E. C. Gulliford, E. L. Lybarger, Frank S. Harmon, Ike M. Robinson, William A. Belt, O. P. Sperra, C. G. Ballou, Lewis P. Schaus, Horace A. Irvin, George D. Copeland; Past Deputy Grand Masters William J. Akers and J. L'H. Long, twenty-four District Lecturers, and the representatives of 505 of the 514 active Lodges in attendance.

The Grand Master read his annual address, congratulating the Craft on the prosperity of the Order in this State during the past year. More Masons have been raised, affiliated, and reinstated then ever before; yet the large number of deaths, (997), withdrawals, and suspensions brings our net gain down to 3,637, twenty-three less than last year.

Announces the death at Newark, Ohio, on August 16, A. D. 1909, of Past Grand Master William M. Cunningham, the oldest Past Grand Master of this Grand Jurisdiction, and an active and distinguished member of this Grand Lodge, having attended every convocation for over fifty years, served it in many capacities, and at the time of his death was serving as Grand Historian, and Chairman of the Foreign Correspondence Committee, which latter position he had held continuously ever since 1885. He served as Grand Master of this Grand Lodge in 1877 and 1878.

He served as Grand High Priest of the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Ohio, in 1901; and as Chairman of its Foreign Correspondence Committee in 1863, 1865, 1869, and continuously since 1904; and was an Anointed Member of the Order of High Priesthood. Served as M.·. W.·. Grand Master of the Grand Council Royal and Select Masters of Ohio, in 1865 and 1866; and as Chairman of its Committee on Foreign Correspondence from 1873 to 1881, and from 1899 to 1905.

Was Past Em. Commander of St. Luke's Commandery No.34, K. T. of Newark, Ohio.

Was a member of Ohio Sovereign Consistory, A. A. S. R. of Cincinnati, Ohio, since February 16, 1862, and received the Honorary Grade of Thirty-third Degree in the Supreme Council for the Northern Masonic Jurisdiction, May 20, 1865.

He was a charter member, and Past President of the Ohio Masonic Veterans Association.

He was a thorough student of Masonic literature, and perhaps without a rival in the field of Masonic history and ritualism. His reports as Chairman of the Committees on Foreign Correspondence in the various Grand Bodies of this State are quoted as authority, and have done more than the work of any one man to make Ohio Masonry known throughout the world. He was the compiler and author of many Masonic text books and manuals. His last literary work was the preparation of the first volume of the Masonic History of Ohio which he had barely finished when the dread summons came that called him to lay down the pen and close his eyes upon its final pages. It will be one of the many monuments to his Masonic attachments and his thoroughness in Masonic literature and history.

His funeral was conducted by the Grand Lodge assisted by a large concourse of Masons from various parts of the state, and the citizens of Newark and vicinity.

The Grand Master issued a circular to all the Subordinate Lodges in this Jurisdiction calling upon them to pay fraternal respect to his memory.

The Grand Master issued dispensations for the following new Lodges:

December 31, 1908, Cypress Lodge, at Strasburg, Ohio; October 28, 1908, East Gate Lodge, at Columbus, Ohio; March 1, 1909, W. K. Rickseeker Lodge, at Aurora, Ohio; May 24, 1909, Emmanuel Lodge, at Cleveland, Ohio; June 21, 1909, Glouster Lodge, at Glouster, Ohio; September 8, 1909, Bremen Lodge, at Bremen, Ohio.

Complying with the expressed desire of the Grand Master over thirty thousand Brethren, members of over four hundred Lodges throughout this Jurisdiction, observed the festival of St. John the Evangelist on Sunday, December 27, 1908, by attending Divine service.

On the night of February 10, 1909, the hall of Dover Lodge No.489, Dover, Ohio, was destroyed by fire. The charter and only part of the records were saved.

On February 18, 1909, in the Scottish Rite Cathedral, Cincinnati, Ohio, in the presence of a large number of distinguished Brethren, the M.·. W.·. Grand Master, C. S. Hoskinson, exercised his prerogative as Grand Master, and made Hon. William Howard Taft a Mason at Sight.

There were present on this occasion the Grand Masters of fourteen sister Grand Lodges, three Officers of the Grand Encampment of Knights Templars of the United States, ten Officers of the Grand Lodge of Ohio, twelve Past Grand Masters of Ohio, eight Officers of the Grand Chapter of Ohio R. A. M., five Officers and seven Past Grand Commanders of the Grand Commandery K. T. of Ohio, a large number of Active and Honorary Members of the Supreme Council A. A. S. R. Thirty-third Degree, three hundred and two of the W. Masters of the Subordinate Lodges of the State, and twenty District Lecturers and a large assembly of Master Masons.

A brief synopsis of the ceremony and proceedings at this Occasional Convocation and Lodge will be found in the proceedings of the Grand Lodge, pages 20 to 27.

Later in the evening Bro. William Howard Taft was present at the conferring of the Master Mason's Degree by Kuwinning Lodge No.356, and was presented by the Lodge with a beautiful lambskin apron.

At a subsequent stated meeting of that Lodge his petition for affiliation was presented, laid over to the next stated meeting when he was duly elected to membership in the Lodge.

THE NEW CODE

The one great work, the work that should be the pride of Ohio Masonry, the work that will perpetuate the memory of one of our earnest and efficient Officers, the new code, has been completed and two copies sent to each Lodge.

The Grand Master made the following appointments during the past year:

COMMITTEE ON MASONIC HISTORY

October 26, 1908, W. Pro. T. C. Coates, having tendered his resignation, the M.·. W.·. Grand Master appointed M.·. W.·. Pro. George D. Copeland, Past Grand Master, a member of the Committee on Masonic History.

August 23, 1909, he also appointed W. Bro. John G. Reeves, Lancaster, Ohio, Chairman of the Committee on History and Grand Historian, to fill the vacancy caused by the death of M.·. W.·. Pro. William M. Cunningham.

GRAND CHAPLAIN

August 23, 1909, appointed Bishop John M. Walden, since 1852 an active and exemplary member of McMakin Lodge No.120, Mt. Healthy, Ohio, Grand Chaplain to fill the vacancy caused by the removal of R.·. W.·. Bro. Paul R. Hickok to Washington, D. C.

CHAIRMAN COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN CORRESPONDENCE

August 23, 1909, appointed M.·. W.·. Bro. William A. Belt, Past Grand Master, Kenton, Ohio, Chairman of said committee to fill the vacancy caused by the death of M.·. W.·. Bro. William M. Cunningham.

TRUSTEES MASONIC HOME

December 31, 1908, appointed Bro. H. A. Worthington, and reappointed Bro. Edward Harford, both of Springfield, to serve as representatives of the Grand Lodge in the Board of Trustees of the Masonic Home for the term of three years from January 1, 1909.

RITUAL COMMITTEE

January 2, 1909, appointed M.·. W.·. Bro. C. G. Ballou, Past Grand Master, Toledo, Ohio, a member of the Ritual Committee, to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Bro. John L. Barbour.

The District Lecturers are highly commended for the prompt and efficient manner in which they performed their duties. All of the 514 chartered Lodges have been inspected, and complete reports of every inspection received and filed.

The Grand Master laid the corner stones of the following Masonic and public buildings:

January 14, 1909, Plymouth Congregational Church, at Newark, Ohio; July 3, 1909, School Building, at Bellaire, Ohio; July 4, 1909, Federal Building, at Warren, Ohio; August 21, 1909, Methodist Church, at Logan, Ohio; September 14, 1909, Masonic Temple, at Upper Sandusky, Ohio.

And the following by the Brethren named, acting as proxies for the Grand Master.

April, 5, 1909, Masonic Temple at Youngstown, Ohio, by Pro. A. D. Thomas; June 26, 1909, High School Building at Pleasant Ridge, Ohio, by Bro. Scott Bonham; July 9, 1909, Carnegie Library at Miamisburg, Ohio, by Pro. Horace A. Irvin; July 31, 1909, Elmwood Place Town Hall at Elmwood Place, Ohio, by Bro. Scott Bonham.

The Grand Master regularly constituted and consecrated the following new Lodges and installed their officers:

October 30, 1908, Euclid Lodge No.599, Cleveland, Ohio; November 7, 1908, Lakewood Lodge No.601, Lakewood, Ohio, and dedicated its Lodge rooms; December 2, 1908, West Lafayette Lodge No.602, West Lafayette, Ohio, and dedicated its Lodge room November 2, 1908, M.·. W.·. Frank S. Harmon, Past Grand Master, acting as proxy for the Grand Master, constituted and consecrated Brenton D. Babcock Lodge No.600, Cleveland, Ohio, and installed its officers.

The Grand Master dedicated the following Masonic Temples and Lodge rooms:

December 8, 1908, Masonic Lodge rooms at Findlay, Ohio; December 10, 1908, Masonic Lodge rooms at Millersport, Ohio; December 29, 1908, Masonic Temple at Troy, Ohio; January 26, 1909, Masonic Lodge rooms at Elmore, Ohio; February 4, 1909, Masonic Lodge rooms at Quaker City, Ohio; February 9, 1909, Masonic Lodge rooms at Oberlin, Ohio; March 18, 1909, Masonic Temple at Mechanicsburg, Ohio; September 10, 1909, Masonic Temple at Lodi, Ohio.

The following were dedicated by Brothers acting as proxies of the Grand Master:

May 12, 1909, Masonic Lodge rooms at Washington C. H., Ohio, Bro. Walter W. Hamilton presiding; June 15, 1909, Masonic Lodge rooms at Niles, Ohio, Bro. A. D. Thomas, presiding; June 24, 1909, Masonic Lodge rooms at Mt. Ephriam, Ohio, Bro. E. C. Chamberlain, presiding; September 27 1909, Masonic Lodge rooms at Holgate, Ohio, Bro. Virgil Squire, presiding; September 27, 1909, Masonic Lodge rooms at New Burlington, Ohio, Bro. Chas. L. Harrod, presiding; October 4, 1909, Masonic Lodge rooms at Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, Bro. H. M. Hagelbarger, presiding; October 13, 1909, Masonic Lodge rooms at Barberton, Ohio, Bro. H. M. Hagelbarger, presiding.

July 26, 1909, the Grand Master issued a dispensation to Warsaw Lodge No.255, at Spring Mountain, to remove to Warsaw, its original home. The Grand Master visited 48 Subordinate Lodges, at all of which he was received and welcomed with all the honors and fraternal kindness due his high rank.

The Grand Treasurer presented his report showing a balance in the General Fund, October 9, 1909, of $63,766.24; and in the Emergency Relief Fund, $4,188.86.

The Grand Secretary submitted his twenty-first annual report showing the net increase of membership, 3,637, being only 23 less than that of last year, and 44 less than the highest record which was made in 1903. The returns of all the Lodges except Collinwood Lodge No.582, were in on time, as were the Grand dues of all except Senate Lodge No.378.

The number of members August 31, 1909, 75,976. The per capita due the Masonic Home was $22,792.80; and the Grand Secretary recommended an additional donation of $10,000.00 to the Endowment Fund, and $5,000.00 to the General Fund, which was concurred in by the Committee on Accounts, and adopted by the Grand Lodge and the appropriation made.

Shortly after the last session the revised code was completed and copies distributed to the various Lodges, Present and Past Grand Officers, and District Lecturers, and quite a number sold. The estimated cost of publishing the code was $3,000.00; the actual amount expended only $1,612.94, and the Grand Lodge has the plates which will greatly reduce the cost of printing additional copies.

The Committee on Centennial Celebration presented their financial report showing the total appropriation, $4,000.00, and the total expenditures, $3,572.87, leaving a balance of $427.13 refunded to the Grand Lodge.

The Committee on the Memorial to Past Grand Master S. Stacker Williams reported that they had collected funds amounting to $1,296,64, with which they had procured and had placed on the Williams lot in Cedar Hill Cemetery at Newark, Ohio, a beautiful large polished Barre Granite Monument, and two granite markers for his grave and that of Elizabeth Williams, his wife, which was approved, and the committee discharged.

Brother B. F. Perry, Jr., of Jefferson was elected M.·. W.·. Grand Master; Bro. Harry S. Kissell, of Springfield, B. .W. Deputy Grand Master; Bro. Thomas B. Guitteau, of Toledo B W Senior Grand Warden; Bro. Edwin S. Griffiths, of Cleveland, R.·. W.·. Junior Grand Warden; Bro. Ralph R. Rickly, of Columbus, re-elected R.·. W.·. Grand Treasurer; and Bro. J. H. Bromwell, of Cincinnati, reelected R.·. W.·. Grand Secretary, and they and the appointive officers were duly installed.

Columbus, Ohio, was selected as the place, and Wednesday, October 19, A. D. 1910, as the time of holding the next Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge.

The Committee on Masonic Jurisprudence reported on the petition of Justin Pinney, for restoration to good standing in Masonry, (he having been expelled for his connection with the organization of the clandestine, so called Worthington Grand Lodge of Ohio), recommending that his petition be denied, which report and recommendation were unanimously adopted by the Grand Lodge.

The petition of John J. Stoddart for restoration to good standing was laid over for further information and consideration, on recommendation of the same committee.

The proposed amendment of Section 16, of the Code, providing that "No Lodge shall confer the first three degrees of Masonry for less than twenty-five dollars, and in cases where three or more Lodges have concurrent jurisdiction for less than forty dollars," was unanimously adopted.

Charters were granted to the following Lodges U. D.:

East Gate No.603, at Columbus, Ohio; Cypress No.604, at Strasburg, Tuscarawas County, Ohio; Emmanuel No.605, at Cleveland, Ohio.

Glouster Lodge, U. D.; W. K. Ricksecker Lodge, U. D.; and Bremen Lodge, U. D., were continued under dispensations until the next Annual Communication.

A committee consisting of M.·. W.·. Bros. George D. Copeland, C. G. Ballou and F. L. Lybarger, was appointed to procure and present the usual Past Grand Master's jewel to M.·. W.·. Bro. Charles S. Hoskinson.

The Committee on Necrology presented their report containing proper testimonies to the memory of M.·. W.·. Bro. William M. Cunningham, the senior Past Grand Master of this Grand Lodge, who died August 16, 1909; the 977 Brothers of this Grand Jurisdiction who died during the past year, and a number of distinguished Brothers of Sister Grand Jurisdictions, which report was adopted and is printed in the proceedings.

The following distinguished Masons being present were escorted to the Grand East and introduced by Past Grand Master Nelson Williams, viz.: M.·. W.·. Barton Smith, Past Grand Master, Lieutenant Commander of the Supreme Council Thirty-third Degree of the A. A. S. R. of N. M. J.; M. Ex Comp. W. T. S. O'Hara, Grand High Priest of the Grand Chapter R. A. M. of Ohio; and M.·. W.·. Bro. William B. Melish, Past Grand Master, B. Em., Deputy Grand Master of the Grand Encampment of the U. S. Knights Templar. The Grand Honors were given, and a formal welcome tendered by the M.·. W.·. Grand Master, which was responded to by each of the distinguished Brothers.

The Committee on Foreign Correspondence, through its Chairman M.·. W.·. William A. Belt, presented its report covering 209 pages and reviewing the proceedings of 64 Grand Jurisdictions and is a valuable addition to the many instructive and able reports of this Grand Jurisdiction, and is specially commended to all Masonic students.

The Committee on the Centennial Celebration of the organization of this Grand Lodge in the year A. D. 1808, presented a detailed statement of the ceremonies and proceedings attending this celebration held during the Annual Communication of this Grand Lodge at Cincinnati, Ohio, October 21 and 22, A. D. 1908; and which was printed as an appendix to the proceedings of 1909, pages 347 to 423 inclusive.

Space will permit us to only insert a brief synopsis, as follows:

FOREWORD

At the session of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ohio, held in Cincinnati, October 18, 1905 the following preamble and resolution, offered by M.·. W.·. Bro. Win. B. Melish, were unanimously adopted.

"Whereas, This Grand Lodge was organized in the year 1808, and will probably desire to and should celebrate in some appropriate manner the centenary of this interesting occasion:

"Resolved, That a Special Committee of seven be appointed by the incoming Grand Master to take into consideration the proper manner of observing this event, and to report to this Grand Lodge at its next Annual Communication a recommendation as to a suitable program and the probable expense attendant thereon."

And in pursuance of this resolution, the M.·. W.·. Grand Master, Lewis P. Schaus, appointed the following:

PRELIMINARY COMMITTEE ON CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION

M.·. W.·. Bros. William B. Melish, of Cincinnati; W. M. Cunningham, Newark; Leander Burdiek, Toledo; O. P. Sperra, Baveuna, and R.·. W.·. Bros. Horace A. Irvin, Dayton, and J. H. Bromwell, Cincinnati.

At the Grand Communication, held in Columbus, October 10, 1906, M.·. W.·. Bro. Wm. B. Melish, as chairman, resented a report on Centennial Celebration including among other things the following recommendations:

"1. That the celebration of the one hundredth anniversary of the organization of this Grand Lodge be had in 1908, in connection with the Annual Communication of the M.·. W.·. Grand Lodge and under its authority.

"2. That the Grand Master appoint a committee of nine, of which committee he shall be a member, and that said committee should be empowered to make all necessary arrangements for the Centennial Celebration.

"3. That this celebration shall be held in one of the large cities of the state, the location to be considered by the Committee on Centennial Celebration, and their recommendation to be made to the M.·. W.·. Grand Lodge at its Annual Communication of 1907.

"4. That the program in its general charter shall consist of a Masonic procession, escorting the M.·. W.·. Grand Lodge on the morning of its first day session to its place of meeting. That a commemorative service, with a program of an historical and Masonic character, with appropriate music, be held in a large hall during the afternoon of the first day's session, followed by a reception to Masons and their families by the Most Worshipful Grand Master and Officers of the Grand Lodge, the program concluding with an anniversary banquet in the evening, the details of these events to be arranged by the Centennial Celebration Committee.

"5. We are unable at this time to report to the Grand Lodge the probable cost of a Centennial Celebration such as outlined in this report. We recommend that the question of expenses be referred to the committee to be appointed by the Grand Master, as suggested in this report, said committee to report regarding the matter of expenses to this Grand Lodge at its next Annual Communication."

On motion, the report of the committee was adopted and the recommendations concurred in.

In accordance with the recommendation of this report the M.·. W.·. Grand Master appointed the following Brethren as the

COMMITTEE ON CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION

M.·. W.·. Bros. Win. B. Melish, Cincinnati, Chairman; Win. M. Cunningham, Newark; Leander Burdick, Toledo; O. P. Sperra, Ravenna; Horace A. Irvin, Dayton; Lewis P. Schans, Newark; and R.·. W.·. Bros. J. H. Bromwell, Cincinnati; Win. J. Akers, Cleveland, and R. R. Rickly, Columbus.

At the Grand Communication held in Canton, October 17, 1907, M.·. W.·. Bro. Win. B. Melish submitted an additional report of the Committee on Centennial Celebration recommending that said Celebration be held on the third Wednesday of October, (the 21st of the month), in the year 1908, and in the city of Cincinnati.

Which report was, on motion, unanimously adopted.

THE COMMITTEE'S WORK

The Centennial Committee held its first session at the Sinton Hotel, in Cincinnati, February 28, 1908, and elected M.·. W.·. Bro. Win. B. Melish, Chairman, and R.·. W.·. Bro. J. H. Bromwell, Secretary.

THE CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION

LOCAL COMMITTEE

The Chairman announced that the Lodges of Hamilton County had perfected an organization for the purpose of taking charge of local details and of working in harmony with the Grand Lodge Committee, and that Bro. E. E. Shipley had been chosen as Chairman and Bro. Albert L. Knight as Secretary of this local organization.

SUB-COMMITTEES

The Chairman having been authorized to appoint the necessary sub-committees, announced the following:

Finance - R. R. Rickly, O. P. Sperra, Wm. J. Akers.
Hall and Meeting Place - L. P. Schaus, Horace A. Irvin, Wm. B. Melish.
Transportation - J. H. Bromwell, L. P. Schaus, R. R. Rickly.
Invitation - Wm. J. Akers, Wm. M. Cunningham, Leander Burdick.
Parade - Horace A. Irvin, O. P. Sperra, R. R. Rickly.
Hotels - Edward F. Shipley, Chairman Cincinnati Entertainment Committee, First National Bank Building, Cincinnati.
Press and Publicity - O. P. Sperra, L. P. Schaus, Wm. M. Cunningham.
History and Publication - Wm. M. Cunningham, J. H. Bromwell, Leander Burdiek.
Music - Leander Burdiek, Wm. J. Akers, Wm. B. Melish.
Entertainments - Wm. B. Melish, J. H. Bromwell, Horace A. Irvin.
Reception.- The Past Grand Masters and Past Deputy Grand Masters of Ohio.

HISTORICAL SKETCH

The committee unanimously requested M.·. W.·. Bro. Wm. M. Cunningham, the oldest living Past Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Ohio, to prepare an historical sketch to be read by the Grand Secretary, which request was accepted by our venerable and learned Brother, who subsequently delivered to the committee a full and interesting resume of the principal events of interest which had transpired in Masonry in this state during the existence of the Grand Lodge.

POET LAUREATE

The committee, being fully advised by many delightful experiences on other occasions of the poetic talent of our M.·. W.·. Bro. Nelson Williams, unanimously named him "Poet Laureate" of the coming celebration, and invited him to prepare an appropriate poem specially for that event, which request our talented Brother complied with by furnishing and reading the beautiful poem which will be set out in full later in this memorial.

MUSIC HALL

The Chairman, M.·. W.·. Bro. Wm. B. Melish, announced to the committee that he had secured Music Hall for the sessions of the Grand Lodge, as well as for the special Centennial Celebration on October 21 and 22.

POSTER NOTICES

Special poster notices were printed and mailed to every Lodge in the state, reminding them of the coming celebration and inviting their membership to be present.

INVITATIONS

Handsomely engraved invitations to the number of two thousand or more were ordered to be prepared and mailed to the officers and members of the Grand Lodge of Ohio, to the Grand Masters, and Grand Secretaries of other Grand Lodges, and to such other distinguished Masons as the Committee on Invitation might think proper to invite.

PARADE

The Subcommittee on Parade was directed to arrange for a parade of Master Masons, to be reviewed by the Grand Master and other Grand Officers and invited guests on the 21st day of October at 2 :30 o'clock P. M., the line of march and other details to be in charge of that committee.

SCOTTISH BITE CATHEDRAL

The Trustees of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of the valley of Cincinnati tendered, without charge, the use of the handsome Cathedral of the Rite for Reception Committee headquarters, or any other purpose for which it might be useful or needed, which offer, it is needless to say, was accepted by the committee with thanks.

BADGES

Two styles of bronze badges were ordered, one for the use of the officers and members of the Grand Lodge, and the other for the Brethren either of our own or other jurisdictions who might be our guests.

THE CELEBRATION

GRAND MASTER'S INVITATION

The following invitation of the Grand Master was sent to the Officers of the Grand Lodge, the Masters and Wardens of Ohio Lodges, Past Grand Officers and District Lecturers, the Grand Masters and Grand Secretaries of other jurisdictions, and a large number of other invited guests:

ORDER OF THE GRAND MASTER

On October 5, 1908, M.·. W.·. Bro. George D. Copeland, Grand Master, issued the following order of instructions to the Grand Lodge Officers and Members and to the Brethren of the several Lodges:

GENERAL ORDER NO. 1

To the Masters, Wardens, and Brethren of the Several Lodges within the Jurisdiction of the M.·. W.·. Grand Lodge F. & A. M. of Ohio.

GREETING:

I. The M.·. W.·. Grand Lodge F. & A. M. of Ohio will convene in Annual Grand Communication in the Music Hall, Elm Street, between Twelfth and Fourteenth Streets, Cincinnati, Ohio, at 9 :30 A. M., Wednesday, October 21, A. D. 1908, A. L. 5908.

II. All members of the Grand Lodge will, as early as practicable, report their presence to the Committee on Credentials, at Boom No.3, ground floor, at the Official Headquarters, the Hotel Sinton, Fourth and Vine Streets.

III. The Officers and Members of the Grand Lodge, and visitors from other Grand Lodges, will assemble at the Hotel Sinton at 9 A. M., October 21, when the Grand Lodge will proceed, under escort of the Cincinnati Entertainment Committee, to Music Hall.

IV. The Centennial Celebration Parade will occur at 2 :30 P. M., Wednesday, October 21, and will be under the command of M.·. W.·. Horace A. Irvin, Grand Marshal of the Parade, with Bro. James Pettibone as Chief of Staff, to whom, at their headquarters, Parlor "E," Hotel Sinton, Grand Lodge Members, Masters of Lodges attending as Lodges, and unattached Brethren will promptly, on arrival, report for assignment.

V. Lodges under our jurisdiction are hereby authorized to appear in public from October 20 to October 22, inclusive, for the purpose of attending this Centennial Celebration. The Grand Master, and Officers and Committees of the Grand Lodge will be located at the Hotel Sinton, Official Headquarters, the Parlor of the Grand Master being Room No.322. The office of the Grand Secretary, Grand Treasurer, etc., and of the Centennial Celebration Committee will be Parlors "C" and "E."

Given under my hand at my office in Marion, this fifth day of October, A. D. 1908, A. L. 5908.
GEO. D. COPELAND, M.·. W.·. Grand Master

Attest:
J. H. BROMWELL, R.·. W.·. Grand Secretary
Masonic Temple, Cincinnati.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 20

The program of entertainment for this day was as follows:

Beginning at 10 o'clock A. M., the Grand Lodge Officers and members and visiting Brethren were registered and badges and tickets for the various entertainments distributed.

At 6 P. M. a banquet was tendered by the local committee to the Masonic Veterans' Association, consisting of Brethren who have been Master Masons for twenty-one years or more. This banquet was given at the Scottish Bite Cathedral and was largely attended, finely served, and made unusually interesting through the exchange of reminiscences on the part of these veteran members of our Order, some of whom joined the Fraternity a half-century or more ago.

At 7:30 P. M. the work of the various degrees was exemplified at the Masonic Temple as follows:

Vattier Lodge No.386, Entered Apprentice Degree; Cincinnati Lodge No.133, Fellow Craft Degree; Lafayette Lodge No.81, Master Mason's Degree. In addition to this work, Hanselmann Lodge No.208 exemplified the Master Mason's Degree in the German language.

At the same hour, and up to 11:30 P. M., a reception and smoker to our visiting Brethren was held at the Business Men's Club, at which music, fraternal greetings, refreshments and cigars entertained our visitors and furnished them a delightful evening.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21

The day opened bright and pleasant and was perfect in every respect. Great throngs filled the streets, and upon the buildings in the business center of the city fluttered Masonic banners and emblems by the thousands. The people of Cincinnati vied with each other in making the celebration a success and in welcoming the visiting Masons from every part of Ohio and from neighboring states.

The program of the day was initiated by the march to Music Hall and the formal opening of the Grand Lodge, was passed along to the immense parade in the afternoon, and was raised to a sublime degree of enthusiasm in the exercises of the evening.

OPENING OF GRAND LODGE

At 9 o'clock A. M. the local Entertainment Committee to the number of one hundred reported at the headquarters of the M.·. W.·. Grand Master at the Sinton Hotel to act as an escort to the Grand Lodge to Music Hall.

At 9:30 the procession was formed, the Grand Officers, Past Grand Masters, Past Deputy Grand Masters, District Lecturers, and representatives of the various Lodges, numbering altogether nearly a thousand (being in line, with military bands interspersed at suitable intervals, and the march was made to the place of meeting.

On arriving in front of Music Hall the procession was massed and a large group photograph of the members of the Grand Lodge was taken, after which the Brethren entered the hall, the officers took their stations, and the following exercises were had prior to the opening of the Grand Lodge, M.·. W.·. Bro. Wm. B. Melish, Chairman of the Grand Lodge Committee, making the announcements:

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21, 1908

MUSIC HALL, CINCINNATI

9:30 A. M. - Organ Recital.... Bro. John Yoakley
10:00 A. M. - Invocation .... Mozart Scottish Rite Double Quartette.
10:10 A. M. - Prayer.... Rev. Bro. Paul R. Hickok R.·. W.·. Grand Chaplain.
10 :15 A. M. - Welcoming Address.... R.·. W.·. Bro. Edw. F. Shipley Grand Orator, Chairman Cincinnati Entertainment Committee.
The Lord is My Strength.... Blodgett Scottish Bite Double Quartette.
Welcome to Cincinnati.... Hon. L. Markbreit Mayor of Cincinnati.
Response.... George D. Copeland Grand Master of Ohio.
Lift Thine Eyes.... Mendelssohn Charity.... Nembach Scottish Rite Double Quartette.
Announcements of the Grand Lodge Centennial Celebration Committee,
M.·. W.·. Bro. Wm. B. Melish, P. G.M., Chairman.

ORGAN RECITAL

The recital on the great organ was by Bro. John Yoakley and delighted all, especially those who heard this famous organ for the first time.

VOCAL MUSIC

The vocal music was furnished by the Scottish Rite Double Quartette, and it is needless to say was rendered in the most finished and artistic manner.

WELCOME

The welcoming address and the responses were eloquent and impressive, and were greeted with frequent and hearty applause.

HOME BOYS AND GIRLS

The final number of the program was unexpected and came as a surprise to the hundreds of Brethren on the floor.

Fifty inmates of the Ohio Masonic Home twenty-seven boys and twenty-three girls suddenly appeared upon the stage and proceeded to render a number of songs which they had been taught at the Home. The incident was both interesting and pathetic, and many eyes were moist as the wards of the Order sang in their youthful tones of "Home, Sweet Home."

They had been brought from Springfield, where the Home is located, to Cincinnati in charge of the Superintendent, Bro. John W. Parsons, and his wife the Matron, were met at the depot and escorted to the Hall.

They remained in the city until the afternoon of the 22d, and were given the time of their lives.
The visited the Zoo and saw the animals, rode in a tallyho about the city, and were the guests of the Committee for a number of other pleasant experiences, including a visit to the Walnut Street Theater to see "Buster Brown," which they enjoyed to the limit.

THE PARADE

The M.·. W.·. Grand Master having appointed M.·. W.·. Bro. Horace A. Irvin, Past Grand Master, to act as Grand Marshal of the Centennial parade, general orders were issued by the Grand Marshal for its formation and management.

The details set out in these orders were carried out to the letter, and promptly at 2:30 P. M. the greatest Masonic procession ever seen in this and probably any state, took up its line of march.

That some proper conception may be had of its magnitude the report of the Chief of Staff to the Grand Marshal, is submitted:

REPORT OF CHIEF OF STAFF

To M.·. W.·. Bro. Horace A. Irvin, Grand Marshal.

Dear Sir and Brother: The report of participants in the Centennial parade is as follows:

MASONIC PARADE . . . . . . . . Officers . . Past . . Members . . Officers . . Past . . Master . . Total
Cincinnati, October 21, 1908 . . . G. L. . . .G. M. . . . G. L. . . . of Lodges . Mast. . Masons

Mounted Police . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Grand Marshal and Staff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

FIRST DIVISION
Marshal and Ades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Hofer's Band . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
LaFayette Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 . . . . . . 23 . . . . 18 . . . . . 219
Grand Lodge of Ohio . . . . . . . . .14 . . . . . .24 . . . . . 800 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 838
First Regiment Band . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Masonic Band . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

SECOND DIVISION
Marshal and Aides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Bellstedt's Band . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
McMillan Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 . . . . . .18 . . . .161 . . . . . 188
Hanselmann Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 . . . . . . 6 . . . . 167 . . . . . 181
N. C. Harmony Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 . . . . . .10 . . . .100 . . . . . 118
Ohio Masonic Home,65 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . .68
Smittie's Band . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Excelsior Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 . . . . . . 14 . . . . 96 . . . . . 120
Walnut Hils Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 . . . . . . 10 . . . .150 . . . . . 170
Madisonville Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 . . . . . . . 3 . . . . .66 . . . . . . 76
Wyoming Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 . . . . . . . 5 . . . . .60 . . . . . . 74

THIRD DIVISION
Marshal and Aides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Kohlbrand's Band . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Cincinnati Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 . . . . . . .18 . . . 118 . . . . . 143
Montgomery Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 . . . . . . .10 . . . . 27 . . . . . . 45
Sharonville Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 . . . . . . . .2 . . . . .33 . . . . . .38
Cynthia Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 . . . . . . . .5 . . . . .26 . . . . . .35
Hofer's Band . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Avon Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 . . . . . . . .9 . . . .130 . . . . . 147
Norwood Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 . . . . . . . .6 . . . .120 . . . . . 133
Price Hill Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 . . . . . . . .6 . . . . .21 . . . . . . 32
Monitor Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 . . . . . . . .5 . . . . .25 . . . . . . 34
McMakin Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 . . . . . . .10 . . . . .56 . . . . . . 72
North Bend Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 . . . . . . . 4 . . . . . 23 . . . . . . 30
Snow Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 . . . . . . . 7 . . . . . 42 . . . . . . 53

FOURTH DIVISION
Marshal and Aides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Smittie's Band . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Vattier Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 . . . . . . 12 . . . . 300 . . . . . .320
Weber's Band . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Kilwinning Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 . . . . . . . 8 . . . . 140 . . . . . 155
Oxford Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 . . . . . . . 3 . . . . .40 . . . . . . 51

FIFTH DIVISION
Marshal and Aides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Band . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Yeatman Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 . . . . . . . 6 . . . . 400 . . . . .414
Hoffner Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 . . . . . . 11 . . . . 185 . . . . .202
Carthage Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 . . . . . . 12 . . . . . 92 . . . . .114
House of Refuge Band . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
Miami Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 . . . . . . . 4 . . . . 110 . . . . .122
Milford and Queen City Lodges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 . . . . . . . 7 . . . . 263 . . . . .278
Pleasant Ridge Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 . . . . . . . 6 . . . . .78 . . . . . . 92

SIXTH DIVISION
Marshal and Aides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Monfort's Band . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Dayton, St. John's and Mystic Lodges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 . . . . . . .20 . . . .156 . . . . 188
Second Regiment Band . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
E. T. Carson Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 . . . . . . . 1 . . . . .91 . . . . 100
Band . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Jefferson Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 . . . . . . . .1 . . . . 90 . . . . . .96
Cheviot Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 . . . . . . .12 . . . .170 . . . . .190
Washington Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 . . . . . . .12 . . . . 48 . . . . .. 68
Linwood and Gerard Lodges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 . . . . . . . 9 . . . .109 . . . . .128
Hyde Park Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 . . . . . . . 3 . . . .114 . . . . . 126

RECAPITULATION.
Police (Mounted), 12; Trumpeter (Mounted) 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Grand Marshal (Mounted) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Chief of Staff and Adjt. Gen (Mounted) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Grand Marshals and Aides (Mounted) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Division Marshals and Aides (Mounted) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Officers Grand Lodge in Carriages, 13; Mounted, 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Past Grand Masters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Members, Grand Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800
Children, Ohio Masonic Home, in Tally hoes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Officers of Lodges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .260
Past Masters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 301
Master Masons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1990
Bands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 328
Grand Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5834

One of the most interesting features of the parade was the distribution of thousands of souvenir Masonic Aprons, specially made and inscribed for the occasion, which took place just before this grand Masonic army took up its march. Some of these will no doubt be treasured by the children and the children's children of those who wore them on this occasion, and will be displayed as precious keepsakes when the bi-Centennial Anniversary shall be celebrated by our Masonic successors.

The parade was preceded by a troop of mounted police in personal command of Bro. Paul Millikin, Superintendent of Police, while at short intervals along the line of march were posted members of four companies of "Cincinnati's finest" to clear the streets and prevent interference with the procession.

After them came the Grand Lodge Officers in carriages in the following order:

The M.·. W.·. Grand Master of Ohio, George D. Copeland, Marion
R.·. W.·. Deputy Grand Master, C. S. Hoskinson, Zanesville
R.·. W.·. Senior Grand Warden, B. F. Perry, Jr., Jefferson
R.·. W.·. Junior Grand Warden, Harry S. Kissell, Springfield
R.·. W.·. Grand Treasurer, R R. Rickly, Columbus
R.·. W.·. Grand Secretary, J. H. Bromwell, Cincinnati
R.·. W.·. Grand Chaplain, Rev. Paul P. Hickok, Delaware
R.·. W.·. Grand Orator, Edward E. Shipley, Cincinnati
R.·. W.·. Em. Grand Commander, F. B. King, Sandusky
R.·. W.·. Grand Marshal, George L. Marshall, Dayton
W. Senior Grand Deacon, Thomas B. Guitteau, Toledo
W. Junior Grand Deacon, Edwin S. Griffiths, Cleveland
Grand Tyler, A. B. Fairchild, Ravenna

Past Grand Masters Wm. M. Cunningham, Newark; J. M. Goodspeed, Athens; Leander Burdick, Toledo, and Levi C. Goodale, Cincinnati.

M. EL Grand High Priest, F. H. Archer, Columbus.

Past Grand Masters Allen Andrews, Hamilton; Carroll F. Clapp, Warren, and Barton Smith, Toledo.

Past Grand Masters Nelson Williams, of Hamilton; F. C. Gulliford, of Cleveland; F. L. Lybarger, of Warsaw, and Frank S. Harmon, of Cleveland.

Past Grand Masters Ike M. Robinson, o, Chandlersville; W. A. Belt, of Kenton; O. P. Sperra, of Ravenna, and C. G. Ballou, of Toledo.

Past Grand Masters L. P. Schaus, of Columbus; Horace A. Irvin, of Dayton; Past Deputy Grand
Masters Wm. J. Akers, of Cleveland, and J. L'H. Long, of Ottawa.

Bishop and Bro. David H. Moore, of Cincinnati; Bishop and Bro. John M. Walden, of Cincinnati.

When the head of the column reached the reviewing stand on Government Square it stopped long enough to permit the Grand Lodge Officers and invited guests to take their places, and then the Brethren passed in review in columns of four to the place of dismissal, and this great Masonic parade was at an end.

THE CELEBRATION EXERCISES AT MUSIC HALL

Admission to these exercises was by card issued to Masons and their families, and at least eight thousand were present.

PROGRAM

7:30 to 8 P. M.

Organ Recital, Patriotic Airs.

Mrs. Lillian Arkell-Rixford, of The College of Music of Cincinnati.

8:00 P. M.

Overture, "Figaro's Hochzeit" ....Mozart

The College of Music Orchestra; Henri Em, Director.

Solo, "O God, Have Mercy!" from St Paul, Mendelssohn Bro. Douglass Powell, of Eurydice Lodge No. 1920, London, Eng., accompanied by the College Orchestra, under direction of Sig. Albino Gorno, Dean of the Faculty.

Invocation
Bishop John M. Walden, D. D., of McMakin Lodge No.120, F. & A. M., Mt. Healthy, Ohio. America Cary To be sung by all the Brethren standing, assisted by the College Chorus and Orchestra, and the great Organ, under direction of Bro. A. J. Gantvoort.

M.·. W.·. Bro. William B. Melish, Chairman of the Centennial Committee, presided at these exercises and announced the various details of the program. He made a few introductory remarks as follows:

"Today we note the beginning of a new century of life for our Grand Lodge, and by comparing the early period of its life with the present we find abundant cause for congratulation and for a glad and grateful celebration of this significant anniversary. The storm of the past, if rightly read and interpreted, is the power of the present, the prophecy of the future. Life is brief, duty grave, but with rain-folded wings of yesterday's sunshine the grateful heart sings. We are the owners of Ohio's proud history of Masonry. To us of right belongs its ancient glory and its present prestige. On us depends its future fame and fortune. May the faith and fealty of the fathers be renewed in the high resolve and noble deed of each member of the Fraternity in Ohio."

The following telegram, letter and cablegram were read, in each case being received by the Brethren with enthusiastic applause:

Telegram from President Roosevelt

"The White House, Washington, D. C.
"I heartily congratulate the Grand Lodge of Masons of Ohio on the celebration of its Centenary. Please present my fraternal greetings and regards to the Brethren.
"Theodore Roosevelt"

LETTER FROM VICE-PRESIDENT FAIRBANKS

"Indianapolis, October 6, 1908

"My Dear Friend: Your letter of the 5th inst. is just received. I can not tell you how much I appreciate your kindness and how gratified I would be were the way clear to accept the invitation you extend to participate in the festivities of your Centennial Celebration on the evening of the 21st of this month. The campaign demands upon me are such that I find it entirely beyond all reasonable possibility to agree to be with you. I can not tell you how much I regret this, for the occasion is one that appeals to me in the strongest possible manner. I am always gratified to be associated with my Masonic Brethren in those events which seek to bring the members of the Fraternity in closer fellowship.

"I am greatly pleased with the kindly message which our mutual friend, Bishop Moore, sends me. It is only evidence of that graciousness which I learned to appreciate when a student at the Ohio Wesleyan University. You say that the Bishop will either pray for me or speak with me. I presume the alternative choice is to rest with me. Appreciating the necessities of the situation, if able to be present I should certainly wish that he would do both.

"I wish to be very kindly remembered to him.
"Faithfully and fraternally yours,
"Charles W. Fairbanks"
Mr. William B. Melish, 612 W. Sixth St.,
Cincinnati, Ohio"

Cablegram from Zuich, Switzerland

"Grand Lodge of Ohio: Heartiest congratulations
"Alpina"

M.·. W.·. Bro. Melish then introduced Bro. Wm. M. Cunningham and R.·. W.·. Bro. J. H. Bromwell, the former having written the historical sketch which Bro. Bromwell proceeded to read. This will be found in the proceedings of the Grand Lodge for 1909, pages 375 to 412 inclusive.

Then followed the Fellow Craft's Song, "'Anderson's Constitution," Delahaye, by The College Chorus and Orchestra and the great organ under direction of Bro. A. J. Gantvoort. The Brethren joined in the refrain of each stanza.

THE FELLOW CRAFT'S SONG

Hail, Masonry! Thou Craft divine!
Glory of Earth, from Heaven reveal'd;
Which dost with Jewels precious shine,
From all but Masons' eyes conceal'd
Thy praises due who can rehearse
In serious Prose, or flowing Verse?

Refrain:
Thy Praises due who can rehearse
In serious Prose, or flowing Verse?

As men from Brutes distinguished are,
A Mason other Men excels;
For what's in knowledge choice and rare,
But in his Breast securely dwells?
His silent Breast and faithful Heart
Preserve the Secrets of the Art.

Refrain:
His silent Breast and faithful Heart
Preserve the Secrets of the Art.

Ensigns of State that feed our Pride
Distinctions troublesome, and vain,
By Masons true are laid aside:
Art's freeborn Sons such Toys disdain.
Ennobled by the Name they bear,
Distinguished by the Badge they wear.

Refrain:
Ennobled by the Name they bear,
Distinguished by the Badge they wear.
Sweet Fellowship, from Envy free;
Friendly converse of Brotherhood
The Lodge's lasting Cement be!
Which has for Ages firmly stood.
A Lodge, thus built, for Ages past,
Has lasted, and will ever last.

Refrain:
A Lodge, thus built, for Ages past,
has lasted, and will ever last.

Oration,
"The Masonic Fraternity, Wheresoever Dispersed on Land or Sea,"
Bishop David H. Moore, D. D.,
Ancient Landmark Lodge, Masonic District, No.1, of China.

Bishop David H. Moore, of the Methodist Episcopal Church, was then introduced, and spoke in part as follows:

"Mr. Chairman, Most Worshipful Grand Master, Brothers and Assembled Friends: I am to speak on 'The Masonic Fraternity, Wheresoever Dispersed on Land or Sea.

"This Fraternity is one form of that Brotherhood which has its best representation in the family. There how tender and holy the relationship! Brothers, children of the same parents, objects of the same love and care, heirs to the same estate; interests alike, hopes, fears, joys and sorrows-Brotherhood!

"From this experience of domestic unity and love it seems a far cry to its practical extension to all the tribes of earth-divided, selfish, hostile as they now are. Yet through all our stir and strife this is the ideal that glows down upon us and toward which we are working. Groups, unions, societies, uniting for mutual help and social, moral, and intellectual improvement, push humanity toward this goal. They may have meant to confine advantages and helps primarily to themselves, but the benevolence which animates them is expansive, and ever extends beyond the limits of their membership. They begin by being esoteric, but always become exoteric. Ever 'love laughs at locksmiths,' and every organization based on the principles of fraternity, consciously or unconsciously, contributes to the common good and to the fulfillment of the promise and prophecy that all men shall love God supremely and their neighbors as themselves -when Turk and Chinese and Polander and American -all earth's bubbling tribes-shall bow the knee to the common Father and call every man brother.

"We note three characteristics of Masonic Fraternity. The first is its antiquity. Its very name 'Masonry' implies this. Construction of work in stone dates from remotest times. Back of recorded history, prehistoric remains point to still earlier achievements. Like the everlasting hills from which they were quarried and hewn, they survive the rush of centuries. In what particular period the apprentices and master builders were first organized for fellowship, mutual help, culture and development, is not especially important. But back, and yet farther back, the chronicles run, across continents and seas, from realm to older realm, until lost in the foregleam of civilization. Some such institution was needed, was created, served its purpose, proved its value by its transmission from generation to generation, until it has reached us, stamped with seals of hoary antiquity, and bearing the approval of the more exacting twentieth century.

Its second characteristic is its democracy. It chooses the insignia of labor rather than the luxury and pomp of power; the apron of the Mason rather than purple and gold; the square and the compass rather than the scepter and the crown. It recognizes the dignity of toil, sets its seal upon honest industry, and points all alike to sacred duties and higher reward. Within the Lodge vanish all the separations of life-high, low, rich, poor; men meet men upon the level and part upon the square.

"Its third characteristic is its universality. As our Chairman tersely puts it, 'If it be true that a man can go around the world and not lose sight of the Union Jack of the British Empire, it is equally true that, at the same time, he is never beyond the cable-tow of a Master Mason.' Grand Lodges recognized by us are found in England, Ireland, Scotland, Switzerland, France, Italy, Greece, Spain, Belgium, Portugal, Egypt, Australia, South America, Mexico, Cuba, and a score of other countries, to s