During the years a few were renouncing the Grand Lodge of Ohio and attempting to form a rival body, the business of Freemasonry in the Buckeye State went on with vigor.

Grand Master S. Stacker Williams convened the Grand Lodge to lay the cornerstone of a new "Intermediate Penitentiary of Ohio" at Mansfield on November 4, 1886. It was laid with impressive ceremonies in "the presence of an immense concourse of Masons, Odd Fellows, Knights of Pythias, members of the Grand Army of the Republic and citizens."

Representative of the many cornerstones the Grand Lodge had laid over the years were those laid this particular year: The First Baptist Church of West Jefferson; the Paulding County Courthouse; the Courthouse of Perry County; the Israelitish Temple at Cleveland; the Methodist Episcopal Church in Mantua.

The Grand Master said he had attended a Masonic Convention in Chicago on June 22, 1887. It lasted for three days and was attended by representatives of 25 Grand Lodges. He said the following resolutions were adopted with "but one dissenting vote":

Resolved, That the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons is the supreme and governing power in and over Freemasonry within its territory and jurisdiction; and that the Landmarks of Freemasonry, together with the laws, edicts, statutes, and regulations, of such Grand Lodge, constitute the only law and authority for the government of Freemasonry within said jurisdiction, and all constituent Lodges, all members thereof and Mason residing within said jurisdiction, must obey and conform thereto.

Resolved further, That there is no authority or power in or over Freemasonry above the legitimate and duly organized Grand Lodge F. & A.M., nor is it within the power of any body, organization, or collection of Masons to assume to exercise such power or authority.

Grand Master Williams was authorized to divide the state into 15 Districts, with Lecturers to serve for a term of three years. One-third of them would be appointed each year. He notified the Grand Lodge he had set up the Districts by counties as follows:

No. 1: Ashtabula, Lake, Geauga, Trumbull, Mahoning and Portage, with Carroll F. Clapp of Warren as District Lecturer.
No. 2: Cuyahoga, Lorain, Medina, Summit, and Wayne; E. J. Blandin of Cleveland.
No. 3: Erie, Huron, Ashland, Richland, and Crawford; James R. Homer of Galion.
No. 4: Ottawa, Sandusky, Seneca, Wyandot, Hancock, Wood, and Lucas; John G. Norton.
No. 5: Fulton, Williams, Henry, Defiance, Paulding, Putnam, Van Wert, and Allen; O. C. Ashton of Bryan.
No. 6: Columbiana, Stark, Carroll, Tuucarawas, Harrison, and Jefferson; Jas. L. Truesdell of Leetonia.
No. 7: Holmes, Knox, Licking, Coshocton, and Muskingum; D.C. Winegarner.
No. 8: Morrow, Marion, Union, Delaware, Madison, and Franklin; Edward Morrel of Columbus.
No. 9: Hardin, Auglaize, Mercer, Shelby, Logan, and Champaign; C. G. Parker.
No. 10: Belmont, Guernsey, Noble, Monroe and Washington; H. W. Rhoads of Bridgeport.
No. 11: Morgan, Perry, Athens, Meigs, and Gallia;W. A. Race of Pomeroy.
No. 12: Fairfield, Pickaway, Rose, Hocking, Vinton, Pike, Jackson, Scioto, and Lawrence; W. H. Wright of Logan.
No. 13: Clarke, Greene, Clinton, Fayette, Highland, Brown, and Adams; Samuel Harford.
No. 14: Darke, Miami, Preble, Montgomery, Butler, and Warren; H. A. Billings of Dayton.
No. 15: Hamilton, and Clermont; S. B. Markland of Cincinnati.

Grand Master S. Stacker Williams told the Grand Lodge in 1888 he had received invitations to attended to Centennial celebrations at Columbus and Marietta. He refused to appear in "my official capacity." He would only appear "as a private citizen."

The Grand Lodge of Florida sent its appreciation for the assistance the Masons of Ohio had sent for the victims of "the yellow fever scourge."

J. H. Bromwell offered a resolution that would have a far-reaching effect upon the Grand Lodge and Freemasons of Ohio:

Be it Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed from this Grand Lodge to confer with like committees from the Grand Chapter R.A.M. of Ohio, the Grand Council R. & S.M. of Ohio, and the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Ohio, upon the question of the establishment of a Masonic Home for aged and infirm Masons, their widows and orphans, and report to this Grand Lodge at its next annual session."

The resolution was adopted. The Grand Master appointed J. W. Iredell, Jr., Henry Perkins and C. C. Kiefer to the Committee.

Grand Master Leander Burdick was astounded on the morning of June 1, 1889, to learn "a terrible calamity had befallen the residents of Conemaugh Valley, on the western slope of the Allegheny Mountains." Towns, villages and hamlets "were engulfed by a rolling tide, forty feet high, rushing down with lightning speed, and carrying death and destruction to everything in its pathway." The Grand Master immediately ordered a draft sent to the Grand Master of Pennsylvania. He urged the Masons of Ohio to contribute as liberally as they could to the victims of this "Johnstown Disaster."

The Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge was held in the Scottish Rite Cathedral in Cincinnati on October 22, 1889. In his annual address, Grand Master Burdick Stated: "The representatives of the Lodges which as sembled in Annual Communication four-score years ago
have multiplied a hundred fold, and today I have the of welcoming the pleasure the representatives of nearly 500 lodges to this 80th Annual meeting, and to extend to you congratulations upon the prosperous condition of the Craft throughout this Grand Jurisdiction."

He included in his address a strong endorsement for the building of a Masonic Home:

The time has arrived when the Grand Lodge of Ohio should husband its resources, practice proper economy in its expenditures, and commence to provide a fund that will prove a nucleus for the purpose of building a Masonic Home for those who may require our care and assistance. We should erect an institution that may be regarded as a permanent monument to exemplify the
true principal of charity and brotherly love, and prove to the world that the thousands of Masons in Ohio can accomplish a work worthy of the cause in which we are engaged, and of the great state we represent.

I trust, however, that the plan recommended by your committee, or adopted by this Grand Lodge, will not be presented to the Lodges throughout the state in the form of a per capita tax upon the membership.

We should not do anything that would have a tendency to induce the Brethren to withdraw from the Lodge to escape what they might consider more of a burden than they are able to bear. Masons should be generous and charitable, and their generosity should be voluntary.

Burdick paid high tribute to John Day Caldwell, the immediate Past Grand Secretary:

At the annual communication of the Grand Lodge, held in the town of Chillicothe in the year 1852, John Day Caldwell was elected to the office of Grand Secretary of this Grand Body. At that time there were some two hundred and thirty chartered Lodges on the roll. This zealous
Brother has continuously served this Grand Lodge as R.W. Grand Secretary for a period of thirty-six years. The name of John D. Caldwell can be found on the charters of three hundred and twenty Lodges subordinatete this Grand Body, his services have been signalized by freedom, fervency, and zeal. The "Record" shows that hundreds of thousands of dollars have passed through the hands of this faithful Officer, and "every penny accounted for."

In the spirit of appreciation of services rendered, not for the pecuniary consideration, is it not fit and proper that some testimonial should be given by the Grand Lodge as a mark of our esteem for one who was ever ready to discharge any duty required? I trust this suggestion will receive attention at the hands of a special committee.

The "mark of esteem" suggested by the Grand Master turned out to be a special jewel.

J. H. Bromwell, the Grand Secretary, said over $8,000 had been sent to Pennsylvania by the Masons of Ohio for the victims of the "Johnstown flood." He noted that with the approval of the Grand Master he had rented office space in the Masonic Temple in Cincinnati. He later rented another room for $5.00 per month. "The necessity for this will appear when I say to you that the total number of books now on the shelves is not less than 23,892 and the returns of Subordinate Lodges from 1808 to the present time are to be preserved."

He added: "This great library had lain for some years past in the cellar of the former Grand Secretary, and when moved to the present quarters required several mouths to clean, arrange upon shelves, tie up in wrapping papers for preservation, label, and catalogue." He had to us his son and an assistant to do the job. He found the record keeping left something to be desired, so he established a double entry bookkeeping system.

The Special Committee on Masonic Home named several Grand Lodges supporting Homes. And it asked: "If these States, with a much smaller membership than our own than Jurisdiction, can support Homes, why may not our wealthy not our and prosperous commonwealth, with its more than thirty thousand members of our beloved Order, rival if not eclipse them in this beneficent work?"

The Committee believed there would be no problem raising the funds needed. It recommended "its objects be not limited, as in some Jurisdictions, to the care of windows and orphans alone, but that it be extended to worthy Master Masons unable to care for themselves on account of age, infirmity, or disease."

No recommendation was made as to location hoping "that a friendly rivalry to secure it may be productive of valuable concessions and contributions to its endowment."

Several resolutions were submitted, based on the construction and management of a Home by the Grand Lodge, rand Royal Arch Chapter, Grand Commandery, with the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite being invited to participate. These were turned over to the Committee on Ways and Means for consideration. It approved without reservation the report of the Special Committee. The Grand Lodge had agreed to build a Masonic Home.

The Grand Master was informed "the W. M. of Manchester Lodge was at the outer door, in an intoxicated condition." A Committee of three was appointed to talk with the offender. It did, and reported he had many good qualities; he practices temperance at home; it was only during
Annual Communications he "permitted himself to be over come by the use of liquors." The Committee recommended "he be deposed as Master of his Lodge – otherwise to remain a member in good standing." The delegates agreed.

During the year, a Lodge had been incorporated by the state. This caused some concern. The Committee on Jurisprudence submitted a resolution stating: "This Grand Lodge disapproves the incorporation of Subordinate Bodies, and will hereafter insist that subordinates shall not take measures to procure incorporation." It was unanimously adopted.

Grand Master Burdick recognized and introduced the Grand High Priest, the Grand Master of the Grand Council, and the Grand Commander of the Grand Commandery.

During his address, the Grand Master said the articles of incorporation for the Masonic Home had been received and trustees appointed:

I desire, however, to add my voice to give encouragement, and if possible to assist in influencing the Masons of Ohio to interest themselves in the speedy accomplishment of this grand undertaking.

If the great army of thoughtful, prudent, consider ate, and charitably inclined Masons of Ohio could be made to realize how easily this lasting monument to the Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons can be erected, the work would go forward with such energy and zeal that the necessary funds would be provided without any apparent loss or labor on the part of any single individual.

Many who are now in the enjoyment of health and prosperity may live to see adversity, sickness, and want; and the day may come when those dependent upon us, those most dear to us on account of the relationship existing, may desire to avail themselves of the home which we are now preparing to erect for them.

As the Grand Master of thirty-five thousand Masons in Ohio let me earnestly urge the Officers of Lodges to interest themselves in the accomplishment of this great undertaking.

Most every Mason realizes that the sands in the "hour glass" of our earthly existence are passing. Oh? so rapidly, and that only a brief space of time is allotted to each of us to perform the duties required, to successfully accomplish an act which will meet not only will meet not with the hearty approval of our whole fraternity, but must and will receive the glad sanction of the Grand Architect of the Universe. This enterprise accomplished, will prove for the Masons of Ohio a "white stone" with a new name written thereon, "The Ohio Masonic Home."

American Union Lodge No. 1 wanted the Masonic Home in Marietta. It offered a donation of some 70 acres in land "beautifully located." This land was said to have been "the home of General Rufus Putnam, the First Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Ohio." This Lodge, on June 1890, celebrated the 100th Anniversary of its formation as an Ohio Lodge; the oldest Lodge in the Northwest Territory. During the celebration, John D. Caldwell said:

In 1876 your speaker presented to this Lodge the manuscript minutes of the Masonic work done in the original Lodge from organization, in 1776, until closed by disbandment of the army. This precious document was manuscript roll, with day and date, and place and time of meeting kept by faithful Secretary and Master, and deposited in the archives of Connecticut. Many years since it was entrusted to me by their Grand Secretary. Now to add a new link of interest in the chain of this pioneer history, was the presentation of the bound record of these worthies since 1790, until the formation of this Grand Lodge in 1808, which has been secreted since, 1814. In consequence of one disappointed Brother, who failed in being the choice of Grand Master at the organization, eighty-two years ago, the famous American Union Lodge was led into the byway of disloyalty, and its members kept still operating without home authority. The pertinacious misleader refused the most indulgent appeal, of the Grand Master and this Grand Lodge, until all attendants in allegiance to him were refused admittance in regular Lodges of Ohio. This perversity had an end in 1816, when a new charter was issued and the present number on our rolls was permitted to the few faithful Brethren who took up the standard, and date their origin from said year of 1816. The book of records, many years since, came to the hands of your speaker and was retained in anticipation that the anniversary day of the patriotic institution would roll around, and that the animosity engendered and family disagreements would have subsided and occasion offer to have proper disposition made thereof for appropriate preservation. In this view the Most Worshipful Grand Master honored me with his proxy, and the "book lost, now found," was restored to grateful appreciation by the existing American Union Lodge.

The Gand Master said he had received much correspondence during the past year regarding the conferral of side degrees on female relatives of Masons. He said this was known as the "Eastern Star." He reminded the members that they had adopted a resolution in 1884 prohibiting the
conferring of "side degrees." He said he was not opposed to the principles of the Eastern Star and added: "Here is an institution fostered and recognized by several Grand Lodges; with whom we are in Fraternal correspondence; an Order whose membership is composed of mothers, wives, sisters and daughters of Masons, whose presence and crucial influence would be beneficial at all times; they are proscribed, while another whose offices are filled by a Lord High Executioner, etc., (Shrine) is permitted to attach it self to the Masonic Body.

He went on to "earnestly recommend that the action heretofore had against the Order styled the Eastern Star be rescinded." The Grand Lodge did not concur in the recommendation.

The Board of Trustees of the Masonic Home requested the Grand Lodge to appeal to the Brethren for their financial support.

The first Past Grand Master's jewel ever presented was designed for Leander Burdick. Sometime later the following was to be said of Burdick:

The election of Brother Burdick as Grand Master was an epoch in the history of the Grand Lodge of Ohio that was attended with results that subsequently proved of great benefit and interest to the Masonic Fraternity of Ohio. The results were specially prominent in the matter of quelling the Cerneau element that was endeavoring to gain recognition as legitimate Masonry, and had succeeded in enlisting sympathizers, and were receiving encouragement from many of the Brethren who were active and held membership in the Grand Lodge. His firm in and dignified method of dealing with Lodges and Brethren who had been brought under the influence of the disaffected element, was such that order was fast restored. His quick response to the call for the relief of the suffering, and his active efforts for the establishment of the Masonic Home, all point to service properly and conscientiously rendered in promoting the true spirit of Masonic principles.

Brother Burdick was the first Grand Master who was willing to reach out an assisting hand to aid the wives, sisters and daughters of Masons in obtaining some recognition of their relation to and desire for association with the Fraternity of Free and Accepted Masons through the medium of recognition of privileges subsequently accorded to the Eastern Star.

The Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masonic reported it had adopted a resolution stating: "The membership in a Chapter of Royal Arch Masons shall be dependent upon and co-existent with membership in a Lodge of Master."

The Grand Master was highly elated to report:

The deed is accomplished. The trustees have selected for the home more than 150 acres of gently rolling land, surrounded by crystal streams of living water, and well shaded by forest trees, all looking down smiling upon the prosperous city of Springfield. In a few weeks more the sound of trowel and hammer will be heard on this property, and there will slowly arise into form of beauty a building which the Masons of Ohio will dedicate to the craft as a place of shelter, rest and refreshment. Under the skillful care of architect and gardener, the landscape will be improved until this place, already beautiful by nature, will be transformed into a haven where the poor may find shelter and comfort, . . . and even he upon whom Heaven has conferred an abundance may here find rest and recreation.

The Code of the Grand Lodge was amended so a Chapter of Royal Arch Masons, a Council of Royal and Select Masters, a Commandery of Knights Templar, or a body of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, under the jurisdiction of the Supreme Council of the Northern Masonic
Jurisdiction, were recognized as official Mason bodies and could use Temples jointly with Lodges.

Questions of economics continued playing an import ant role in the life of the Lodges. The members of Madisonville Lodge No. 419 were disturbed early in 1890. The Stewards presented a bill for over $60 for refreshment for one evening. This was unheard of. The Stewards were called upon to explain how they had spent every dime. They admitted they had been overly extravagant. After being reprimanded by the Master, the bill was ordered paid. But never again was any refreshment committee this rash.

A little later the same Lodge formed an orchestra. It played, among other places, at the Town Hall to raise funds to furnish the Lodge building.

Lynchburg Lodge No. 178, in 1892, "contracted with Bro. Daniel Tedrick and his wife to take care of their needs for the balance of their natural lives for the transfer of their farm to the Lodge. During July, 1895, the farm was sold by the Lodge for $1,222.90.

About the same time, the Lodge forgave a Brother "who appeared in Lodge and confessed that he had been drunk." He promised, if forgiven, "he would not get drunk anymore – which he did." (The historian doesn't say which he did!)

While it was forgiving this Brother, Lynchburg Lodge "Paid $1.35 for three pints of whiskey for Mrs. Tedrick." Was it doctor's orders?

Grand Master Levi C. Goodale told the delegates on October 19, 1892, the time had arrived when the District Lecturers should be more fully recognized by the Grand Kidge. "They should have a place of honor in our meet ing," he said, "and be clothed with appropriate collars and jewels."

He wasn't too happy with the decision he had to make concerning the Order of the Eastern Star:

While agreeing with my predecessor that this Order is not Masonic, and that meetings of the Order should not be held in Lodge rooms, I regret the fidelity to the rules of the Grand Lodge compelling me to this decision. I believe that the policy of denying the use of Lodge and anterooms to this organization unwise. . . . It is no more than the proper demand of the law of compensation that the wives and daughters of Masons should be permitted to enjoy in part the social opportunities which follow membership in a Masonic Lodge.

A resolution was submitted which would have amended the Code to read:

Or organizations known and designated as Chapters of the Eastern Star, when composed entirely of Masons known to be loyal to the Grand Lodge and its officers, and of the wives and daughters of such Masons, may, with the consent of the Grand Master and by unanimous consent of all Masonic Bodies occupying Masonic Halls, be permitted to use such Masonic Halls for festival and ceremonial purposes.

The Grand Lodge did not give unanimous consent to vote on the amendment. It was held over until the next Communication when it was adopted and under certain conditions the Order of the Eastern Star was permitted to use Masonic Lodges.

Under the heading "Masonic Home" Goodale said: "The report of the committee will show that $104,000 has been subscribed for the work. This afternoon the corner stone of this edifice will be laid and ere many months Ohio will have a home for those of the Craft who need shelter or the comforts of a home; and the Masons of Ohio will be enroled on the list of those jurisdictions which are making Masonic relief practical."

General Asa S. Bushnell of Springfield was on of the most enthusiastic and liberal contributors and workers in the cause of the Masonic Home. The Grand Master, at the request of the members of the Craft in Springfield and elsewhere, made Bushnell a "Mason-at-sight." This took place on October 18, 1892, with hundreds in attendance.

At 2 p.m., Wednesday, October 19, 1892, the Grand Lodge reassembled for the purpose of laying the cornerstone of the Masonic Home.

The procession was formed at the public square in Springfield. The first division composed of seventeen Commanderies of Knights Templar with over 1,500 Knights in line and thirteen bands. The second division of forty-two Lodges consisted of over 2,000 Master Masons along with five bands. There was a large number of carriages, and special trains were run at brief intervals to convey visitors to the grounds.

It was a great day for Springfield and the Freemasons of Ohio. But an even greater day was only three years away.

Grand Master Allen Andrews of Washington Lodge No. 17 attended a "Masonic Congress" held in Chicago on October 14, 1893, only four days before the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge. He said 23 Grand Lodges were represented, including Manitoba and two from Canada. "The Congress was a remarkable gathering of eminent Masons, the largest of its kind ever held in the history of our Fraternity. It had not power or inclination to organize or suggest a general Grand Lodge, for such a body is not desired by Ancient Craft Masonry. It had no power to legislate for the Grand Lodges, even to recommend conclusions to them." But a number of important questions were discussed.

Among them were: The Sovereignty of Grand Lodges, and it was concluded each is sovereign in its own state; Grand Masters do have many prerogatives; A Mason's creed must be "an unequivocal belief and trust in God"; Every Mason ought to be affiliated with a Lodge; All candidates must be able to physically comply with the ceremonies of the several degrees.

Past Grand Master S. Stacker Williams of Ohio was one of the Vice-Presidents of the Congress.

Andrews suggested to his delegates it was a Masonic offense to "engage in the traffic of intoxicating liquors to be drank where sold . . . or for purposes other than medicinal and mechanical uses." The Grand Lodge concurred.

The growth in the number of Lodges, now at 501, caused the Grand Lodge to increase the number of Districts and District Lecturers to 25. The counties were divided as follows:

No. 1: Hamilton
No. 2: Butler, Preble, Montgomery, Warren
No. 3: Darke, Miami, Mercer, Shelby
No. 4: Allen, Auglaize, Van Wert, Putnam, Paulding
No. 5: Defiance, Henry, Fulton, Williams
No. 6: Clermont, Brown
No. 7: Scioto, Adams, Pike, Highland, Ross
No. 8: Clinton, Greene, Fayette, Pickaway
No. 9: Clarke, Madison, Champaign
No. 10: Logan, Hardin, Hancock, Wyandot
No. 11: Lucas, Wood, Ottawa, Sandusky
No. 12: Lawrence, Jackson, Gallia, Meigs
No. 18: Fairfield, Hocking, Perry, Vinton
No. 14: Franklin, Delaware, Union, Morrow
No. 15: Marion, Ashland, Crawford, Richland
No. 16: Seneca, Erie, Huron
No. 17: Athens, Washington, Morgan
No. 18: Muskingum, Noble, Monroe
No. 19: Licking, Knox, Coshocton
No. 20: Tuscarawas, Harrison, Stark, Carroll
No. 21: Summit, Wayne, Medina, Holmes
No. 22: Cuyahoga, Lorain, Portage
No. 23: Belmont, Guernsey, Jefferson
No. 24: Columbiana, Mahoning, Trumbull
No. 25: Ashtabula, Geauga, Lake

District 1, with 29 Lodges, was the largest; District 9, with 16, was the smallest.

Changing the Code in 1893 to permit Eastern Star Chapters to meet in Masonic Temples had proven wise, Grand Master Andrews told the delegates in 1894. "This provision not only added many Chapters to the Order of the Eastern Star throughout the State," he said, "But greatly revived interest and zeal in Masonry in many localities, and it is no small thing that our Fraternity is exalted in the minds of our mothers, wives, sisters and daughters, and thus cherished in the hearts of those we best love on earth."

Andrews was to be the last Grand Master to serve for more than one year. All future Grand Masters were limited (by custom) to one term.

Sabina Lodge No. 324 had one of its greatest days on June 21, 1894. It laid the cornerstone of the "Township Hall," which would be called "The Opera House." It was a beautiful day and the town was crowded to the hill and wore an air of holiday grandeur." About "6,000 people" crowded the streets. The 14th Regiment Band from Ft. Thomas, Kentucky, was one of the many features. Just about every fraternal organization was represented in the long parade. Grand Master Andrews gave the closing address in which he said:

Ladies, I am vested with the power should I choose, to make Masons at sight and I do feel so on this delight ful occasion of doing so, and so do declare you all Master Masons. Do you know why you are not asked to join us? Women are, by nature, so much more refined and cultured than men are generally, that the main object is they make men better for your society. We have been endeavoring to do this for about 4,000 years and have made a little advancement.

In April the Senior Grand Warden, W. B. Melish, suggested funds be raised to erect a monument. He wanted to memorialize the Masonic deeds of the Reverend LaFayette VanCleve, who had served as Grand Chaplain from 1877 to his death in 1892. The funds were raised and the monument obtained. On Sunday, October 14, 1894, it was dedicated "with appropriate services in the presence of a large assembly of Masons and citizens." A balance in the fund remained. It was determined to place a "VanCleve Memorial Window" in the Chapel of the Ohio Masonic Home.

A committee "was appointed to prepare a design for a District Lecturers jewel, ascertain the cost, and report to the next session of the Grand Lodge." The design was approved at the next Annual Communication and the committee was authorized "to purchase twenty five at a cost not to exceed $15 each."

Charles Brown was unable to be present as Grand Treasurer for the first time in 15 years. He was seriously ill. A wire of sympathy and best wishes was ordered to be sent to him. But his illness proved fatal.

On November 9, 1894, the Grand Lodge was convened for the purpose of conducting the funeral of Charles Brown. The Grand Master, Carroll F. Clapp, appointed Ralph R. Rickly to fill the vacancy on December 1,1894.

Hundreds of cornerstones had been laid over the years for public buildings and Masonic Temples. Numbers of Masonic Temples had been dedicated. Rarely had these ceremonies created overwhelming excitement. But it did on November 16, 1894. Even the shops and factories were closed for the day when the Grand Master dedicated the Lodge room of Western Reserve Lodge No. 507.

Grand Master Carroll F. Clapp of Old Erie Lodge No. 3 visited a joint meeting of American Union Lodge No. 1 and Harmar Lodge No. 390 at Marietta on June 3, 1895. He was high in his praise of the cordial reception he received. He was pleased to be present "where the fires were first lighted on the Masonic altar in the great North western Territory."

During the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge on October 28, 1895, Clapp noted: "American Union Lodge No. 1 has in its possession very many old and valuable books and records that I believe this Grand Lodge should have copied and the copies placed in the hands of some competent historian, in order that the material now lying unused might be properly arranged for future reference." It would be 1934 before this material was used, and then by Charles S. Plumb who wrote the history of the Lodge.

Grand Master Clapp announced the main building of the masonic Home would be dedicated by the Grand Lodge that day, Wednesday, October 23, 1895. He felt it was "the finest structure that has ever been erected in any Grand Jurisdiction by the Craft for a similar purpose."

He was alarmed, however, because "it is being urged by some that when the Home is completed it should be turned over to the Lodges to control and provide for. I hope that you will never consent to nor accept of such a trust. The present plan of control has worked most admirably, having every legitimate and recognized Masonic Body of the State equal co-workers in this great cause of Brotherly love."

A gavel made of wood from an olive tree which grew in Jerusalem was presented to the Grand Master by John Stull, President of the Ohio Masonic Home. He had been asked to present it "by the Master of the Lodge of Masons meeting in Jerusalem," and to convey it with "expressions
of Fraternal greeting to The Grand Lodge of Ohio." The Grand Master used the gavel for the remainder of the Communication.

The Grand Lodge concurred with a recommendation of the Grand Master. It "resolved, That the Worshipful Master of each and every Lodge shall require every newly obligated Master Mason to acquire the Examination, Lecture of the Master's Degree, and certify that this has been done on the Annual Returns of his Lodge."

The Worthy Grand Matron of the Order of the Eastern Star expressed her appreciation of the favors extended by the Grand Lodge. She offered the assistance of her Order in building and furnishing the Masonic Home. Clapp felt this spirit should be met by removing the unanimous consent needed for Chapters to meet in Masonic Temples to a simple majority. The Grand Lodge concurred.

Carroll F. Clapp, received an almost unanimous vote for re-election. He said he was gratified and highly pleased by the action of the Brethren, but he had long been of the opinion that in Ohio a Grand Master should retire at the end of one term. He respectfully declined reelection. William B. Melish, a member of Lafayette Lodge No.81, was elected Grand Master.

By-Law 16 of the Grand Lodge was amended to read: "Every subordinate Lodge shall pay annually to the Grand Lodge, at the stated meetings thereof, the following Grand Dues, to wit: for each initiation, the sum of $2; and for each member, the sum of $.50, $.15 of which shall each year be set apart and appropriated by the Grand Lodge for the use of the Ohio Masonic Home."

A great day in the history of Freemasonry in Ohio had arrived. The officers of the Grand Lodge, assisted by the officers of "all the Grand Bodies in Masonry in Oho," dedicated the Ohio Masonic Home.

The afternoon of October 23, 1895, "was an almost perfect autumn day in the City of Springfield, Ohio. The air in the early morning was crisp and fresh, but warmed up in the bright sunshine of midday."

Trains had started bringing Masons from all over Ohio early in the morning. "Hundreds of ladies, who had accompanied the visitors, lent the charm of their presence to beautify and enliven the thronged streets of the busy little city." The streets were crowded. The workshops were closed. The houses were gayly decorated. Springfield had put on its gala clothes for the most important celebration it had ever held."

From the Public Square, the large procession left at 1 p.m. to march through the streets of Springfield. Carriages carried the dignitaries. Several Commandry bands added to the splendor of the parade. Up the National Road, they traveled to the Home grounds. There they were
massed as a solid body in front of the grandstand, which had been erected at the entrance to the Masonic Home building."

The porch of the building served as "a stage." On it were assembled all the principal officers of each of the bodies. The Board of Trustees, and a large number of ladies, overflowed the porch so many of them occupied the roof.

A lengthy history of the events leading to this his torical moment was read by J. H. Bromwell, "Secretary" of the "Ohio Masonic Home." He highly praised all who had taken part in raising funds and those who work on the construction. He listed the financial support given by each of the bodies, and the expenditures made.

John K. Stull, President of the Trustees, closed his address by stating:

And now, as we turn over the result of our labors to the Grand Master of the State, to be Masonically dedicated to the holy purpose for which it is intended, and remembering that there still "abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity," in the name of that heavenly virtue, we invoke upon this Home the beneficent blessing of the Supreme Master and Architect of the Universe, that it may be perpetual, an honor to the craft and a refuge and safe Home for worthy and distressed Masons and their families.

Most Worshipful Grand Master of The Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons in Ohio! this Temple, which commands our attention today, was built with the generous offerings of Masons, Lodges, Councils, Chapters, Commanderies, and Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite Bodies throughout the state of Ohio. Its inception had its origin in love for the indigent of the craft, their widows and orphans. The Home is nearly completed, and will soon be ready for the uses for which it was designed.

And now, Most Worshipful Grand Master! at the special request of the Board of Trustees of the Ohio Masonic Home, I have the honor to ask you in their behalf, and in the behalf of the forty thousand Masons in Ohio, and the respective Grand Bodies of our noble Order, to dedicate and consecrate this Temple to the uses for which it was designed; namely, to the care of indigent Master Masons, their families, and the widows and orphans of deceased worthy Brothers throughout the state of Ohio. And we trust that, as the years roll on, Heaven will still, as in the past, uphold and guide the work, until the Order, wearing "crowns of glory, and with palms of victory," will enter the Home where the "weary shall ever find rest" and Fraternity live on for ever.

Grand Master Carroll F. Clapp closed his acceptance address:

To feed the hungry, clothe the naked, comfort the sorrowing, and bind up the wounds of the afflicted, are among the principles inculcated and enjoined upon us as Free Masons. In building this Home, you have demonstrated the Mason's unfaltering belief in the principles of Brotherly Love, Relief and Truth.

The foundations of this Home have been laid broad and deep in the hearts of the members of our great Brotherhood. You have erected here a structure which is the pride of the craft of this city and of our great Commonwealth. The Masons of Ohio will, on account of their common interest in this great undertaking, be more closely cemented together than ever before; for this great work of charity has become with them a labor of love.

The same generous impulses that prompted them to build this Home, will, I trust, in the future see that it is properly provided for and maintained. The call of want, the wail of sorrow, and the cry of the orphan will not go unheeded.

Some states have erected great and costly Masonic Temples; but they do not dry the tears of our Brothers' widows and orphans; they do not furnish a home for the friendless.

You are not asking me to dedicate an asylum or an almshouse, but a Home; and may it ever furnish to those for whom it is intended all the sacred associations that the name implies!

In this Home grief will be alleviated, the unfortunate comforted, the helpless strengthened, young loves saved from crime and shame, and fitted for usefulness.

This Home will be the crowning glory of the Most in Ohio. May we therefore annually celebrate the day that gave it birth and dedication!

And now, Mr. President, in the name of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Ohio, and in the name of the forty thousand true and valiant Masons of this Grand Jurisdiction, without regard to rank or grade, I receive this Home from you for the purposes you have indicated, and we will now proceed, according to our ancient form and ceremonies, to dedicate and consecrate it to the benevolent uses for which it was ordained. May the Supreme Grand Architect of the universe, the Mason's God, cause his blessing to rest upon it, and spread the work of charity and benevolence!

In an impressive ceremony, the Grand master, assisted by his officers, dedicated the Ohio Masonic Home to "the helpless Brethren, the widows and orphans of deceased Brethren," and to the practices of Brotherly Love. Then the Grand Orator closed his remarks with this poem:

In the elder days of Art,
Builders wrought with greatest care
Each minute and unseen part,
For the gods see everywhere.

Let us do our part as well,
Both the unseen and the seen;
Make the house where gods may dwell
Beautiful, entire, and clean.

Grand Master William B. Melish said he had complied with the wishes of the Grand Lodge. He had contracted for seven Past Grand Master's jewels. They were made by Michie Brothers of Cincinnati at a total cost of $650. In January, 1896, he had presented them to Charles A. Woodward, William M. Cunningham, Reuben C. Lemmon, I Charles C. Kiefer, Joseph M. Goodspeed, S. Stacker Wilhams, and Carroll F. Clapp.

He had also presented 25 jewels to the District Lecturers during the year.

Melish was happy to note he was the first Grand Master in many, many years who had to make "no decision of law during his term." He said it was now an accepted fact the Grand Lodge alone "has the right to determine what is Masonic and what is un-Masonic conduct." The Supreme Court of Ohio had made this clear.

During the year, the Masons of Ohio had responded generously to a plea for funds to furnish and equip the building of the Masonic Home. The Home was able to meet all its debts.

Past Grand Master and Grand Secretary of Iowa, T. S. Parvin was welcomed to the Grand Lodge. During his remarks, he proudly said he had "received his initiation into the mysteries of our Order in N. C. Harmony Lodge No. 2 of Cincinnati."

It was agreed by the Grand Lodge "a candidate for the Degree of Entered Apprentice should be able, physically as well as intellectually, to receive and impart all the essentials for Masonic recognition, and this the Lodge may determine." It was also agreed the minimum dues in the
Lodges should not be less than two dollars annually.

Grand Master Barton Smith, of Sanford L. Collins Lodge No. 396, was unable to be present when the Grand Lodge convened on October 20, 1897. His address was read by the Deputy Grand Master. He was pleased to report: "The Ohio Masonic Home, the glory and pride of Ohio Freemasonry, is completed and was, on the first day of April, A. D. 1897, open for the performance of its great duties and purposes. Its very success, however, and its importance brings to us new cares and responsibilities, and it imposes upon us new burdens."

Smith said a fifty cent donation had been requested from each member. The amount realized had enabled the Home to carry on its work. He was of the opinion the main the Home could not be depended upon in this manner. He believed action should be taken toward establishing a permanent endowment fund.

In the afternoon, the delegates to Grand Lodge went by special train to visit the Home. Over 600 inspected the facilities, now housing 29 men, nine women, nine boys, and nine girls.

The Grand Lodge adopted legislation permitting Lodges to let Eastern Star Chapters meet in Masonic Temples without the consent of the Grand Master being required.

Once again, the United States found itself at war. This time a Mason from Ohio was at the helm of the United States, President William McKinley. Immediately after the battleship the U.S.S. Maine was sunk in Havana harbor on February 16, 1898, the United States declared war on Spain. Under McKinley's leadership, Spain was quickly defeated. Ohio citizens were quick to answer the President's calls for forces. In fact, more volunteers were produced than could be used.

It was during this war that the man who would succeed McKinley, after his untimely death, became famous. Theodore Roosevelt, at the outbreak of the war, resigned as Assistant Secretary of the Navy to organize a volunteer cavalry unit. On June 1, 1898, Colonel Roosevelt led his
"Rough Riders" up Cuba's San Juan Hill, an event he would consider "the great day of my life."

Grand Master Nelson Williams, of Washington Lodge No. 17, alluded to the Spanish-American War when the Grand Lodge met in Columbus on October 19,1898. He congratulated the country on its "glorious victories in the cause of downtrodden and depressed humanity." He also congratulated Freemasonry because "a man whose hands are guiding the destinies of this Nation is a member of one of our subordinate Lodges."

Disastrous fires had plagued the Lodges throughout the state over the course of the history of the Grand Lodge. During 1898, 11 Lodges had burned. Eight of these were located in the Masonic Temple in Cincinnati. All had lost their Charters, and new ones were granted.

"At the insistence of the Grand Lodge of Colorado," said Williams, "and the request of her sister Grand Loges, the Grand Lodge of Virginia has assumed the conduct of the proper commemoration of the 100th Anniversary of the death of George Washington." The services were scheduled to take place on December 14, 1899, at Mt. Vernon. The Grand Master had accepted an invitation to attend.

The Governor, Asa Bushnell, was among the large "concourse of citizens" who were present when the corner stone of the new Masonic Temple in Columbus was laid on August 31, 1898. This Temple was expected to handle the needs of the Masonic Bodies of Columbus for fifty years. But within ten years after its completion it was necessary to enlarge it. This was done, and in 1913 it was called "the largest edifice devoted to exclusive Masonic purposes in the world."

On October 18, 1898, Grand Master Williams received a petition from Daniel W. Wright who was the Worshipful Master of New England Lodge No. 4 at the time its Charter was arrested. He later became the first Grand Master of the clandestine Grand Lodge organized at Worthington. In his petition, he renounced all allegiance to the spurious Grand Lodge. He declared it and all its bodies clandestine. He pledged his allegiance to The Grand Lodge of Ohio.

Grand Master Williams said: "His renunciation of the spurious Grand Lodge and its subordinates and adherents is the most stinging rebuke which could be administered to these misguided men." The special committee which review his petition made a lengthy report. It reviewed the facts and "true Masonic spirit which should govern these cases." It recommended "charity and forgiveness." The Grand Lodge concurred. He was reinstated as a Mason.

About the Masonic Home the Grand Master said: "On an elevation overlooking the enterprising city of Spring field and crowing the most beautiful spot in the neighbor hood stands our magnificent monument to the beneficence of Ohio Freemasons. Finished according to original designs, and paid for, it rises in beauty and grandeur to please the eye and gladden the heart of every Brother who is privileged to look upon it." The Delegates and "the ladies accompanying them" accepted an invitation to visit the Masonic Home in the afternoon.

The committee on Foreign Correspondence reported that "out of the 266 men who went down to their death in the Battleship Maine, 83 were Masons."

The committee also noted The Grand Lodge of Washington had "out in effect" recognized "negro lodges." Thisbrought bitter words from the pens of Foreign Correspondents from all over the country. Josiah H. Drummond, a Past Grand Master of Masons in Maine, was particularly better. He said of W. H. Upton, the man who pushed the resolution through his Grand Lodge of Washington: "This report shows the caliber, characteristics, and character of its author so plainly upon its face that an extended notice of it would give it an importance it does not possess. The fact, however, that it is published in the Proceedings of Lodge of the Grand Lodge Washington calls for one observation, that they author of it crowds more misrepresentations, actual and by implication or innuendo, into a given space than we have ever before seen. It is undoubtedly true that many of them are the result of his unconscious, gross ignorance of which he writes about; but there are many others for which this excuse can not be given."

So widespread was the condemnation of the Grand Lodge of Washington over this action that the following year it rescinded the resolution of recognition.

Spittoons were still a necessity in the Lodges in 1899, New Home Lodge No. 338 purchased three at a total cost of $1.11. It also paid 75¢ for board and lodging for a destitute Brother.

Columbia Lodge No. 44, as did other Lodges, had an orchestra. It was suggested that good music just might in duce non-Masons to petition for the degrees.

An unusual committee was appointed in Columbia Lodge. It could be termed "The Unemployment Committee." Its duties were to get certain Brethren out of their "present employment." The committee found "the only means which we can devise whereby we may induce Brother - - - - to quit his present occupation of - - - - , that the Lodge grant him a benefit of $3.00 per week for a period of six weeks." The "benefit" was granted, and the Brother allowed to give his employer one week's notice. It would be interesting to know what his occupation was.

Grand Master E. C. Gulliford, of Iris Lodge No. 299, said on October 25, 1899: "So far as I have been able to learn, clandestine Masonry in Ohio is fast becoming a thing of the past. The (clandestine) Lodges are closing their doors, and the members openly renouncing their allegiance to these so-called Masonic bodies."

He said the Cerneau litigation had been appealed from the courts in Cleveland to the Supreme Court of Ohio. On March 7, 1899, the Supreme Court sustained the circuit court in its decision. All Cerneau litigation had been determined in favor of the Grand Lodge.

Past Grand Master S. Stacker Williams offered his entire library to the Grand Lodge. It consisted of several thousand Masonic publications, including complete series of Proceedings of many Grand Lodges. It was termed "probably one of the most valuable in the United States, and worth several thousand dollars." The Grand Lodge gratefully accepted the generous offer.

Over $13,000 was turned over to the Mason Home, a result of the increase the previous year of the per capita tax. Of the sixty cents collected, thirty cents was designated for the Masonic Home.

The ladies of Springfield had conducted "a lawn fete" on the grounds of the Masonic Home. They were able to raise sufficient funds to purchase "military uniforms" for the boys. "They had arrived at great proficiency in drilling and attracted much attention and applause during a Memorial Day parade in which they participated."

The Grand Lodge of Ohio was represented by four of its members in Alexandria, Virginia, on December 14, 1899. This special meeting was held to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the death of George Washington. Grand Secretary J. H. Bromwell responded for the Grand Lodge of Ohio at the banquet. "And right well did he maintain the reputation, not only of this Grand Lodge, but the great state of Ohio, by one of the most rhetorical, eloquent, and appropriate addresses that was delivered during the entire proceedings." That was quite a compliment. The oratory extended into the wee hours of the morning.

The Grand Lodge was convened in Special Communication at Canton on September 19, 1901, by Grand Master Frank S. Harmon, of Village Lodge No. 274. It was called to pay its last tribute of respect to the late President of the United States, William McKinley. McKinley had been
shot by an assassin in Buffalo, New York, on September 6, 1901. He died eight days later.

With the death of McKinley, an era ended. He was the last President to serve in the Civil War. Among the many things that stand out concerning him was one – food. As a mess sergeant during the Civil War, he received a battlefield commission for being the first ever to serve hot food to troops under fire; as Governor of Ohio (1892-96), he gained in popularity for providing free food to Ohio's unemployed.

Past Grand Master William B. Melish said:

During the civil war, Major McKinley was stationed at Winchester, Virginia, where was located a hospital for Confederate wounded. In making the rounds one day with the regimental surgeon he noticed the doctor was on very friendly terms with several Southerners, giving them tobacco or money, and inquired the reason, when the surgeon told him they were Brother Masons, and it was not only a duty but a pleasure to be able to relieve their necessities; when the Major expressed a desire to become a member of the Fraternity on which neither prison bars nor rank of office had the slightest effect.

In Winchester there was a regular Lodge of Masons, Hiram Lodge No.21, officered by Confederate soldiers or citizens on parole, to whom the desire of Major McKinley was communicated. His petition was received, he was elected, and on May 1, 1865, the degree of Entered Apprentice was conferred upon him by S. B. T. Reed, a Confederate Chaplain, who was Master of the Lodge and on the two following evenings the Fellow Craft and Master Mason Degrees were conferred on him.

After his return home Major McKinley took a dimit from Hiram Lodge No. 21 and affiliated with Canton Lodge No. 60, Canton, Ohio, and when Eagle Lodge No. 431 was organized at Canton, he became one of its charter members, and continued his membership thereafter until his death. He received the degree of Royal Arch in Canton Chapter No. 84, R. A. M., in December, 1883, and the degrees of Red Cross and Knight Templar in Canton Commandery No. 38, K. T., December 18 and 23, 1885.

During the Annual Communication of October, 23, 1901, Eagle Lodge No.431 of Canton, the Lodge to which McKinley belonged asked for its name to be changed to William McKinley Lodge No. 431. The request was readily granted.

The Grand Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star asked the Trustees of the Masonic Home to permit its members to erect a memorial. It offered to have this memorial "in the shape of a hospital, cottage or chapel as might be acceptable to the Board." The work would be done under he the direction and control of the Board of Trustees.

N.C. Harmony Lodge No. 2 conducted the funeral of Past Grand Secretary John Day Caldwell on April 7, 1902. His services were held in the Scottish Rite Cathedral in Cincinnati. Gibulum Lodge of Perfection performed the Scottish Rite ritual. His body was interred in spring Grove
Cemetery.

Caldwell had been Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge from 1852 to 1887, when he was made Grand Secretary-Emeritus. From 1862 to 1871, he had served as Grand Secretary of six "Grand Masonic Bodies." This was called "a record without a parallel in the history of Masonry."

Grand Master W. A. Belt, a member of Latham Lodge No. 154, told the Grand Lodge on October 28, 1903, he was happy with the continual growth of Masonry. "More men have been initiated this past year than ever before in any one year in its history in Ohio. . . . This is not all. More Masonic Temples and new Halls, grander than ever before, are now in process of erection, or have been finished this year than Masonry in Ohio has ever known in anyone year."

J. H. Bromwell said there had been a net gain of 20,881 members during his 15 years as Grand Secretary. There had been an increase of 13 Lodges during the same period.

A cornerstone had been laid on October 23 for a "magnificent City Hospital," the gift to the city (of Akron) of Brother Barber, a member of one of the local Lodges. Attending the festivities were "the Knight Templars of Akron and over 600 Master Masons." They "acted as an escort to the Grand Lodge and assisted on the pleasant ceremonies of the occasion.

The Committee on Foreign Correspondence did a little bragging. It said the first Lodge ever organized in the Territory of Minnesota was St. Paul No. 230, under a dispensation of The Grand Lodge of Ohio, issued August 22, 1852. It was "chartered by The Grand Lodge of Ohio, January 24, 1853." It was constituted on February 7, 1853. On February 24, 1853, this Lodge, along with St. John's No. 30 of Wisconsin and Ataract No. 121 of Illinois, joined together to organize the Grand Lodge of Minnesota.

Past Grand Master S. Stacker Williams died on April 3, 1904. Asa S. Bushnell, former Governor of Ohio, also passed away during the year.

Past Grand Master William M. Cunningham was called to the East on October 18, 1905, during the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge. It was announced he was percent for his fifty-first consecutive Communication. A a brief history of his Masonic accomplishments was read, among them his service as Chairman of the Committee on Foreign correspondence for the past 24 years. He was presented with a special gold medal that had been struck in his honor. Cunningham was so overcome with emotion it was some time before he could respond.

New jewels, costing $281.50, and new aprons, costing $154.35, were worn by the Grand Lodge officers for the first time.

Grand Master Clifford G. Ballou, of Wakeman Lodge No. 522, said he was present on May 10, 1905, "when the Order of the Eastern Star turned over to the Masonic Fraternity the splendid hospital building which they had completed and thoroughly equipped from turret to foundation
stone." The work had gone smoothly, as the cornerstone was laid on October 26, 1904.

"I sometimes think we fail to fully appreciate those hearty old pioneers who in the early days of the Grand Lodge of Ohio, traveled hundreds of miles on horseback, or in rude wagons, to these Annual Communications," Grand Master Lewis P. Schaus, of Acme Lodge No. 554, said on
October 10, 1906. "There were no palatial hotels, no fine Temples such as we now have to make their meetings pleasant and comfortable, but they esteemed it a privilege to assist in the deliberations of this Grand Body, and they returned to their homes with their knowledge quickened and their appreciation of the glorious truths of Masonry intensified."

Grand Master Schaus was concerned. It appeared that one of his District Deputy Grand Masters had been ignored by Buckeye Lodge No. 150. When he inquired as to why his representative hadn't been received, he learned no one knew he was going there for an inspection except the Secretary. Anyway, there was a flood and there were no lights.

Schaus noted that on April 18, 1906, "intelligence was received that San Francisco, Cal., and the Pacific Coast, had been visited by a terrible earthquake, followed by disastrous fire and great 1055 of life and properity, and prompt communication was had with the Grand master of that
jurisdiction, and a letter of appeal issued to the lodges of this jurisdiction which responded nobly of donations of $10,162.14, which was supplemented with additional donations, raising the amount to $10,209.60." This amount was immediately turned over to the Grand Master of Masons in California.

This calamity prompted the establishment of an "emergency relief fund of The Grand Lodge of Ohio." It was to be used exclusively by the Grand Master "for the relief of emergent cases of general distress in any locality, which should in his opinion receive assistance from The Grand
Lodge of Ohio." On many, many occasions it proved a blessing.

It was determined a celebration of the 100th Anniversary of the organization of The Grand Lodge of Ohio be held in 1908. It was agreed this would be held in connection with the Annual Communication, in one of the large cities. A committee of nine was appointed to make the arrangements and report to the Grand Lodge in 1907.

In 1907, the Grand Lodge set aside $5,000 for the purpose of properly celebrating the anniversary of the organization of this Grand Lodge, the same to be held during to the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge in 1908." It was decided to meet in Cincinnati.

Grand Master Horace A. Irvin, of Mystic Lodge No. 405, told the delegates on October 16, 1907: "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 of body, thereby restoring to it the property of which it had been deprived for nearly 12 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."

Generously, the Grand Lodge approved the reinstatement of all former members of the Lodge who requested it — except for one.

In later years, New England Lodge No. 4 would claim "the proud distinction of being the oldest Lodge in continuous existence in Ohio." Lodge of Amity No. 5 of Zanesville would rightly claim: "Four other Lodges were established earlier, but they suffered lapses in their charters
or their representation in the Grand Lodge."

Amity"s historian, Norris F. Schneider, cited Cunningham's "evidence" in Volume I of his History of Freemasonry in Ohio. American Union Lodge "was not represented in the Grand Lodge from 1829 to 1845"; "Nova Cesarea Harmony Lodge No. 2 of Cincinnati was formed by the union of the dormant Nova Cesarea Lodge No. 10... and Cincinnati Lodge No. 13 that Old Erie No. 3 of Warren . . . was inactive from 1828 to 1854, and that New England Lodge No. 4 of Worthington . . . renounced its allegiance to the Grand Lodge in 1891."

It was noted: "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 was contributed, and the work is nearly completed, which has improved the dining room and added 30 additional rooms over that part of the building."

The Grand Master thanked all of the attendant bodies in the Order the Eastern Star for "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 endowment fund for the Home reached a total of $74,149.33. The number of residents totaled 156.

The books of the "S. Stacker Williams Library" were "shelved in 12, Masonic Temple, Cincinnati, at a cost of about $400, which was donated by the Masons of Cincinnati." This library was to remain the property of the Grand Lodge "but it is not to incur any expense in relation thereto, except the insurance."

Not many Lodges had complied with the request to have their histories written. They were asked to redouble their efforts for the 199th year of the Grand Lodge.

The end of the tenth decade in the history of the Grand Lode of Ohio found it extremely healthy. Its membership had grown to 69,000 from the handful who met in six Oho Lodges in 1808. From those six Lodges had come 513.

The number of Lodges and members increased each year during most of the period. The exception was the years of the anti-Masonic persecution. Through all other adversities,, the growth remained constant. There had been three wars, one of them dividing every institution in the country, except Freemasonry. There had been several recessions and depressions. Yet, along with industry in Ohio, the Craft grew.

What had been suspected, even before Ohio became a State, was proven true. Ohio was a land of prosperity, and no hardier people could be found anywhere.

The cornerstone of frontier Freemasonry had been firmly laid. The Craft was indeed ready to enter its second century of putting brotherhood into action in the Buckeye State.

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