In 1926, Past Grand Master Howard T. Greer published in the proceedings of the Grand Lodge that which he termed ''Ohio's Creed.'' In referring to this creed he used the words "contact, cooperation and progress." These three words represent the program and method of the Grand Lodge as well as its creed during these years The Grand Lodge was using more contacts, seeking more cooperation with the subordinate lodges and between the Lodges, and as a result, progress was being made in the building of a tradition through the repetition of these practices.
This was one method of building the Masonic tradition. It was not built alone by increasing expansion and the development of lodges or members. However, this was a part of the result, for progress was represented in the number of lodges and members. For instants, in 1904, there were 1,173 members and 44 lodges in 1914, there were 1,983 members and 50 lodges, and in 1925, there were 3,463 members and 67 lodges. During the first decade following 1904, there was a net gain of 33.2% in membership and in the next eleven years a net gain of 121%. These results represented progress which had been made to some extent by the contacts made through travels of Grand Masters, Deputy Grand Masters and particularly the Grand Lecturer and the District Lecturers.
While the contacts between the Grand Master and the lodges were not always continuously of satisfactory advantage to both, nevertheless these turned out to be for the best and of good results to the Grand Lodge after brief periods of time. One of these incidents developed during 1925 and 1926. This incident began in the session of the 76th Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge at Canton, Ohio, when the members of Gloria Lodge No. 89 F. & A. M., Columbus, Ohio, were ordered from the hall resulting from a protest made by St. Mark's Lodge No. 7 F. & A. M., Columbus. St. Mark's Lodge had claimed that the warrant of constitution of Gloria Lodge No. 89 had been arrested and taken from the possession of the Worshipful Master. The Grand Lodge by vote declared that the act of arresting the warrant was not approved and restored the warrant to the Worshipful Master of Gloria Lodge. Subsequently, the members of this lodge were granted seats. The members of St. Mark's Lodge No. 7 continued their deliberations with the Grand Lodge during this session.
Following the Grand Lodge, Grand Master Frank A. B. Hall endeavored to create harmony between the new lodge and the members of St. Mark's Lodge, so he reported he sent a communication to the lodges of the Jurisdiction notifying them that in accordance with the constitution he would publicly consecrate, dedicate and constitute Gloria Lodge No. 89 and install its officers at Columbus.
In October, 1925, a circular appeared with the title in large type, "Negro Masonry on Trial in Ohio," authored by Brother Ray F. Hughes. This circular was signed by order of St. Mark's Lodge No. 7 F. & A. M. Prince Hall Affiliation and was dated October 5, 1925. On October 14, 1925, the Grand Master received a protest from St. Mark's Lodge setting forth the same complaint as appeared in the printed circular protesting the consecration on, dedication and constitution of Gloria Lodge No. 89 and further requesting that he arrest the charter and warrant of Gloria Lodge. In replying to this protest among other things, the Grand Master said that ''the time spent in arranging and writing this protest as you have called it, might have been used by you in trying to advance the cause of Masonry rather than getting yourself and the lodge for which you are responsible to the Grand Lodge into serious trouble."
Attention was called by the Grand Master to the constitution and the powers which were given in it and stated directly that they were responsible to the Grand Lodge and the Grand Master. He declared that he would be in Columbus on October 25, 1925, and he would carry out the program according to the official bulletin forwarded from his office to subordinate lodges and that would be to consecrate, dedicate and constitute Gloria Lodge No. 89, chartered by the Grand Lodge at Cleveland Ohio, August, 1924.
Finally on October 31, 1923, Grand Master Hall filed charges with the Grand Secretary against St. Mark's Lodge No. 7 F & A. M. for "contumacious conduct toward the Grand Lodge and against the Grand Master." Grand Master Hall then followed with a notice that the arrest of the warrant of St. Mark's Lodge No. 7 would take place on November 2, and that any act of Masonry performed by the Worshipful Master or any members of St. Mark's Lodge No. 7 would be null and void. On this date, November 2, the Grand Master was served with a restraining order against the arresting of the warrant of St. Mark's Lodge No. 7 from the Court of Common Pleas of Franklin County. He was later served with a copy of a restraining order with Gloria Lodge No. 89, where it was restrained from opening the lodge or ordering anyone else to do it for him.
A hearing was held in the Court of Common Pleas and the Grand Lodge defended its rights and privileges. Case No. 104042, St. Mark's Lodge No. 7 vs. Frank A. B. Hall Grand Master, was decided in the Common pleas court with a decision in the following words: ''It was an incontestable fact that the general laws of the Grand Lodge specifically provide that the Grand Master may arrest the charter of a subordinate lodge, and in view of the circumstances, that such general laws provide for a method of procedure for the complainant to present its grievance touching such action of the Grand Lodge, the plaintiff must pursue such procedure; and in the absence of having done so cannot have the benefit of the relief sought in this action."
The Court added that the Grand Master was clearly within his rights in that he acted in complete accord with the laws of the Grand Lodge. The Court also added that the Charter of the complaining lodge, St. Mark's Lodge No. 7, having been legally arrested, it could not restrain the conduct of another lodge, Gloria Lodge. St. Mark's Lodge, however, was not satisfied with the ruling and the case was appealed to the Court of Appeals.
The Court declared in Case No. 1479 that the question of territory and the chartering of new lodges was within the Jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge and the regularity of issuing charters falls with the exclusive Jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of the highest tribunal of the Order. The Court stated that its opinion was "that the civil courts have no jurisdiction to interfere with the functioning of Gloria Lodge under its charter duly issued by and under the authority or the Grand Lodge at open session.
This case was one of the main issues before the 77th Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of the State of Ohio which met at Newark, Ohio, August 17-18, 1926. The case was of considerable interest because it involved the rights of the Grand Master and the rights of a subordinate lodge. The Grand Lodge convened in Elks Hall and a lodge of Master Masons was opened in due form and was followed shortly afterward with the opening of the Grand Lodge. Committees were announced and this was followed by the Grand Master's address which was referred to as a "masterly paper" and which received applause and an ovation at its conclusion.
Shortly after genera1 statements concerning the condition of the lodge, peace and prosperity, he stated, ''a spirit of insubordination has manifested itself in St. Mark's Lodge No, 7, Columbus Ohio, against this Most Worshipful Grand Lodge and the Grand Master.'' He listed his officiate acts following this general statement, the official visits which were extensive, the laying of cornerstones, the issuing of dispensations. His recommendations included the grant of a charter to Euclid Lodge located at College Hill, Ohio, and an important one to the effect that the title, "Prince Hall Affiliation'' would be used upon all Masonic documents of the Grand Lodge, and subordinate lodges. This was an important recommendation because it was evident that this title was being omitted by a number of lodges which were only using the F. & A. M. title.
In referring to the Masonic Home, Grand Master Hall stated that in his opinion this was "one of the greatest achievements of Masonry in Ohio, since the establishment of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge.'' He said that there should be the development of the original idea concerning the Home and that it should be ''a home for widows, orphans and old, infirm and indigent Masons in the State of Ohio.'' He suggested that plans be made for the erection of an entire new building to join the present structure and that these plans and specifications should include dormitories for the aged women, girls and boys who are widows and orphans of Masons. He described the interest of the Order of the Eastern Star in such a proposal and stated that the Grand Lodge should make an appropriation toward the erection of a building for that purpose and thus cooperate with them. One of the unique features of the address was a considerable number of questions and decisions which had come before the Grand Master. These were very helpful in interpreting the fundamentals of Masonry.
The Grand Lodge by a unanimous vote sustained the action of the Grand Master in arresting the charter of St. Mark's Lodge No. 7. This action was taken after hearing Brother Wilbur King who made that which the minutes called "I most eloquent appeal after a very rigid examination." A motion was also lost to permit a committee or a representative from St. Mark's Lodge No. 7 an opportunity to show cause why its charter should not be revoked. Several motions were then made involving the question. Then as institute was offered for the whole, a resolution that the charter of St. Mark's Lodge No. 7 be revoked until such time as the said Lodge complies with the orders of the Grand Lodge and the edicts of the Grand Master, and that after the time specified, the Grand Master shall return the charter to them. The institute drew out earnest discussion and was unanimously adopted.
The reports of the District Grand Lecturers showed that there had been close contacts made with the subordinate lodges throughout the Jurisdiction with the purpose of giving instruction in ritualistic and monitorial work for the purpose of impressing the lodges and members with the principles of Masonry. The physical conditions of the lodges, the results of the inspection of their looks, the degree work and the admonitions given by the lecturers were outlined. These contacts were carried out successfully by Brothers John N. Butler, Dayton; S. D. Matthews, Sandusky; Joseph R. King, Cleveland and Walter D. Nickerson, Newark. The Grand Lodge Jurisdiction had been divided into four districts and each Grand Lecturer was given lodges within the Jurisdiction.
One of the important actions of this Grand Lodge was a resolution adopted unanimously prohibiting court action. This resolution was as follows '' A subordinate Lodge under the Grand Jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Ohio, Free and Accepted Masons, (Prince Hall Affiliation) shall not resort to the civil courts for redress of an alleged injury wrong, until it shall have exhausted every method of appeal in the Order. The penalty for noncompliance with this law by a subordinate lodge, shall be revocation of its charter; and in case of a member, either of the Grand Lodge or subordinate lodges, shall be expulsion from membership in the Order."
This resolution was to become a law, and was effective immediately upon its passage by a majority vote of the members and representatives present and voting at the meeting of the Grand Lodge. This resolution was adopted unanimously. A proviso was carried that it should be printed and forwarded to each subordinate lodge of the Jurisdiction. A special committee appointed to extend greetings to Amaranth Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star for the State of Ohio, made a report conveying greetings to them and also inviting them to convene their annual convocations at the same time and place designated by the Grand Lodge. The committee reported that after discussion of this question, it was decided unanimously to comply with the Grand Lodge request after its 1927 convocation. Following this convention a committee would be appointed to confer with the committee from the Grand Lodge to arrange details. This was also a significant historical step by the Grand Lodge because it was followed by action of the Grand Lodge and the ladies of the Eastern Star making definite the joint sessions at subsequent periods.
Since this Grand Lodge had devoted so much of its time to a discussion of the St. Mark's case, the probability of a case arising in the future even in spite of action taken against Court cases a resolution to create a defense was adopted unanimously and without debate. The resolution stated ''realizing that this Most Worshipful Grand Lodge to retain its dignity and prestige must be prepared to defend itself against any contingency that may arise; to do this it not only requires time, patience and experience but finances as well. Therefore, be it resolved that the entire membership of the Grand Jurisdiction share equally this necessary responsibility by contributing to a fund, to be collected by the Worshipful Master of each subordinate lodge."
"Be it resolved that the amount be fixed at one dollar ($1.00) per member, the same to the designated as a defense fund and to be collected on or before February 1, 1927;
''And be it further resolved that this fund be held by the Grand Treasurer to reimburse the Grand Lodge for any obligations that have been assumed in its effort to retain its dignity and prestige; and further that it be prepared to defend itself in any future litigations that may arise.''
In connection with the Order of the Eastern Star, a resolution was adopted unanimously changing the name of that body, in response to its request, from the Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star, to that of Amaranth Grand Chapter, Order of Eastern Star. The resolution of the Grand Chapter was:
"Be it Resolved that this Most Worshipful Grand Lodge adopt, and that it hereby does readopt as the Female Append-ant of this Most Worshipful Grand Lodge, the Amaranth Grand Chapter, Order of Eastern Star, and extend to it all the rights and protection as heretofore under its former name and designation of Grand Chapter, Order of Eastern Star."
An evidence of progress by the Order of the Eastern Star was reported at this Grand Lodge. The Order was reported as having plans for the construction of a building upon the ground donated by the Grand Lodge and upon the property of the Masonic Home in Urbana, Ohio, for the convenience of the members of the Order of Eastern Star costing approximately $10,000.00. The Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons, Prince Hall Affiliation for the State of Ohio and its Jurisdiction was requested to make a contribution and the Board of Management deemed it not only wise but proper that the Grand Lodge should appropriate the sum of $3,000.00 to this building program. This resolution was unanimously adopted by the Grand Lodge.
Under the leadership of Grand Matron Ida M. Williams and Grand Patron James Weaver, a period of constructive building had been undertaken. In 1925, the Grand Chapter had renewed its membership in the International Conference of Grand Chapters and the next year had competed a revision of its constitutions and regulations. Resolutions were adopted for incorporation and that the name of the Royal Grand Matron should precede the name of the Royal Grand Patron since she is the head of the Grand Chapter."
On August 14, 1927, the cornerstone of the Ohio Eastern Star Home was laid by Grand Master Frank A. B. Hall and Grand Lodge Officers. During the ceremonies an original song was sung, "When Masons Learn How to Love," written by Sister Carrie James of St. John's Chapter, No. 25. The Grand Chapter records state, "This was not only a great day in the history of the Order of Eastern Star, but one in the Masonic Order as well."
By this year, the Grand Chapter had grown from eight chapters to over three score and it was said of them, "The Order of Eastern Star exists for the express purpose of providing for the fraternal spirit and welfare of wives, daughters, mothers, sisters and widows of Master Masons, and though we are not a part of, yet, we are related by the dearest ties, to the members of the Masonic Fraternity and stand ready to help this great organization which meets the longing of every human heart for 'Brotherhood.' We strive for perfection in the Ritualistic work and have many efficient members both as Ritualists and in Constitutional Laws.''
An action of this Grand Lodge of 1926, which was valuable in creating interest concerning the history of the Grand Lodge, was a report submitted by Brother Harry E. Davis, Cleveland, Ohio, concerning the William T. Boyd Library. This resolution was presented by him as custodian of the library for the past two years. He stated that the complete history of Prince Hall Masonry was contained in the various books, pamphlets and proceedings of this library which was known as The William T. Boyd Masonic Library. He recommended and it was adopted that a cooperation be organized to be known as the William T. Boyd Masonic Library Association. This association was ''to be formed for the purpose of acquiring and maintaining a suitable library with special reference to Prince Hall Masonry; to stimulate historical investigation and research; to encourage literary contributions of the subject of Prince Hall Masonry; and to receive by purchase, gift, or devise Masonic works and curios.'' Membership was to be limited to the members of the Grand Lodge of Ohio and its subordinate lodges and was to be voluntarily, except honorary or contributory membership. Dues were to be nominal and were to be $1.00 per year and the Proceeds were to be used to further the aims and purposes of the library association.
The elective Grand Lodge Officers welcome as follows: Frank A. B. Hall, Cincinnati, Grand Master; Everett J. Gatliff,, Toledo, Deputy Grand Master; Harrison L. Adams, Cleveland, Senior Grand Warden, and Albert A. Payne, Toledo, Grand Secretary.
The total receipts during the Fear were $7,446.47 and the total expense was $4,934.70, with a balance brought forward of $2,511.77. When the report of the Ideal Masonic Mutual Benefit Association was made it was reported that when the first assessment was levied twenty years ago that assessment was $39.00. Today it was reported at this Grand Lodge that the assessment was $220.00, and that during this period thousands of dollars had been distributed to widows and orphans.
During 1926, efforts were made to terminate the difficulties existing between St. Mark's Lodge No. 7 and the Grand Lodge and Grand Master Hall. Brother H. B. Alexander, a Past Senior Wardell of St. Mark's Lodge called upon the Grand Master and stated that he had heed requested to make application for the restoration of the charter to the lodge and that he represented a goodly group of members. When asked what number he represented, he replied about 75 per cent. The Grand Master told him that he would require individual applications before he would consider the restoration of the charter. And that this would be based upon the percentage of the members leaking the request. When this had been completed there were about 267 applications, properly filled out and signed requesting that the warrant be restored. It was also said that St. Mark's Lodge would dissolve its so-called incorporation and in accordance with the order of the Grand Lodge, that all suits would be dismissed and the indebtedness accepted by St. Mark's Lodge. The Grand Master thereupon restored the warrant to St. Mark's lodge and placed the Worshipful Master in charge.
Following the restoration of the warrant, a proclamation was mailed under date of November 17, 1926, to all of the subordinate lodges in Ohio and its Jurisdiction stating that: "Peace, harmony and brotherly love now prevail throughout this Jurisdiction," and that the warrant which had been arrested in October, 1925, of St. Mark's Lodge No. 7 and revoked by the Grand Lodge in its August, 1926 session, had been restored as was the Worshipful Master, Brother S. M. Huffman.
It was well that St. Mark's Lodge had taken this action and that the Grand Lodge had been insistent upon it. The authority of the Grand Lodge and particularly of the Grand Master were at issue. If a good Masonic tradition was to be built, these authorities had to be acknowledged. The Grand Lodge and the Grand Master were not creatures of the subordinate lodges. This fact had to be learned by all. Such an outcome was helping still further in building a sound Masonic tradition.
The endeavor to restore the observance of St. John's Day in a more effective way and provide more widespread services was given consideration by the Grand Master in a proclamation March 28, 1927. He also observed that for some years, the Grand Lodge had been decorating the graves of Past Grand Masters Samuel W. Clarke, and William H. Parham on Memorial Day, but that after several years it was discontinued. He added to the list the names of Brothers Jere L. Brown and William T. Boyd, Past Grand Masters and recommended that subordinate lodges or members nearest the places where these prominent leaders of the Craft were interred that memorial services would be held on May 30th, and that floral tributes be placed on their graves in the name of Masonry and out of respect for the sacrificing services that these men had rendered. These admonitions were adding to the building of a historical tradition in Masonry, and Grand Master Hall was making definite contributions toward it.
The 78th Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge for Ohio and Jurisdiction was held at Columbus, Ohio, August 16-17, 1927, with Grand Master Frank A. B. Hall presiding, Howard T. Greer as Grand Secretary, and Otis G. Fields as Grand Treasurer. A large member of visitors were present at this session from other Jurisdictions. After the appointment of committees and the opening of the Grand Lodge in due form the Grand Master's address was heard. It was described as "A wonderful paper going fully into every phase of his year's activities; and at its conclusion was accorded an applause that was long and enthusiastic." One of the opening comments which he made was that "we should ever bear in mind that the Masonic fraternity is no association of mere mystic dreamers; no aggregation of selfish individuals banded together for social amusements; but it is a great society, which, under God's providence and guidance, has a duty to perform, in the generation of the human race; and that these annual communications should be an inspiration toward higher thoughts, nobler actions and grander achievements that we might attain the glorious destiny which has been marked out for us.''
A good description was given by him of his travels through the State and official visits to various lodges where he was received on each occasion with honors and with numbers of members in attendance. One of his recommendations was that the second Sunday in August of each year be designated as the opening day of The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge Week; that the local subordinate lodge or lodges located in or near the city or town where the Grand Session is to be held will be instructed to make suitable arrangements of the holding of Divine Services in some Christian church on the evening of the Sunday designated as the opening day of the Grand Lodge Week, and the Grand Chaplain was called upon to deliver the annual address to the Craft and the general public. On the Monday following Divine Services, the Grand Lodge would convene in a suitable hall or other meeting place suitable for holding the Masonic services and take up the business and consume such time as would be necessary for the transacting of the business of the lodge.
Grand Master Frank Alfred Butcher Hall was a courageous and determined leader. He was born in Vicksburg, Mississippi, April 1, 1870, and moved to Cincinnati, Ohio, where he attended the schools and received private instruction. He was a patrolman in the Cincinnati Police Department from 1897 to 1908, and rose steadily from these ranks to the role of detective in the Police Department and in this position he continued from 1908 to 1926. He was the Superintendent of a Sunday School in the A. M. E. Church and was active in the Y.M.C.A., and the NAACP. He was a man of determined and constant opinions and a higher ideals for Masonry and was active as a civic leader. With his background and points of view, he could easily come into conflict with others who differed with him. He was the first Negro citizen elected to the City Council of the City of Cincinnati. As Grand Master he met all issues squarely and dealt with them in frank efficient ways. His courageous attitude and action helped to give status to the office of Grand Master of Prince Hall Masons.
During this 1927 Annual Communication, he called attention to the question of Burial Relief. He had sent to each lodge a questionnaire directing them to respond as to whether they were in favor of a Burial Relief operated by and under the direction of the Grand Lodge. Fifty-two returns were made, he reported, and 36 of the number had voted in favor of a Burial Relief, but 16 voted against the plan. He then recommended that the Grand Lodge would appoint a committee to study plans and make recommendations for the establishment of such a Burial Relief.
He announced that he had received an application from a constitutional number of Master Masons in Cleveland, Ohio, seeking a dispensation for a Masonic Lodge in that city under the name of St. James. The application was vouched for by Eureka Lodge No. 52, William T. Boyd Lodge No. 79, and Palestine Lodge No. 94 of Cleveland. This dispensation was issued and on November 29, 1926, a ledge with 55 members was constituted. He also stated that communications had been received concerning a spurious grand lodge in Cleveland which was seeking affiliation with the Ohio Grand Lodge, Prince Hall Affiliation. Accordingly, Grand Master Hall called a conference in Cleveland with Worshipful Masters, Past Masters, Grand and Past Grand Officers, together with the Grand Master of the spurious Grand Body.
This organization had taken the name of King George Grand Lodge A. F. & A. M. After a conference, he left the matter in the hands of the Grand Officers of the Jurisdiction living in Cleveland. On June 19, 1927, he received the following petition signed by a majority of the Grand officers, Worshipful Masters and Past Masters. They recommended that the King George Lodge be granted a dispensation according to their prayer and request. The A.U.D. Lodge was set up out of this group on July 4, with 89 members. He issued to each member a card of identification with the name C. D. Creswell Lodge U. D., and recommended that a charter be granted upon their application. This was one of the methods of attacking spurious Masonry. Namely, not only to oppose them in court and openly in public ways, but also to seek to absorb them.
On August 14, 1927, the cornerstone was laid by the Grand Lodge for the new women's and orphans' building on the Masonic Home grounds at Urbana, Ohio. Grand Master Hall stated that this structure was made possible through the cooperation of the Grand Order of the Eastern Star with the Grand Lodge and that its purpose was to take care of widows and orphans of Masons and members of the Order of the Eastern Star. This was the first time in the history of the Grand Lodge "that a cornerstone service has been held for and by the authority of this Grand Lodge."
As for the general condition of the Grand Lodge, he said that it was good, that peace and harmony were prevailing with very few infractions of the law, and that "the authority of the Grand Lodge is admitted.'' There was brief reference to the case of St. Mark's vs the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of the State of Ohio. While the suit had been dismissed, a special fund was developed by assessments to continue to defend that suit and others. There was still the question of the payment of attorneys but it was reported that Gloria Lodge No. 89 was in conference with attorneys and that it was possible that the matter would be settled satisfactorily. Chapters were issued to the two lodges under dispensation and were to be known as St. James Lodge No. 97, and C. D. Creswell Lodge No. 98 of Cleveland. A committee was appointed to prepare a passbook for the Jurisdiction of the State of Ohio. Lodges which had a supply of passbooks were to be permitted to use the same until their supply had been exhausted.
The Board of Management of the Masonic Home rendered its report telling of the work at the Home including the erection of the women's dormitory. The report stated "this mammoth undertaking is unique in the history of the Grand Lodge in as much as the Masons of Ohio at this time are endeavoring to carry forth the principles which cause Masonry to be looked upon as the greatest fraternal organization of all time. The program provides for the care of the aged, indigent and in-firmed Master Masons, widows and orphans; so buildings to house and shelter them must be erected in accordance with the craftsmen's idea of protection." The report was received with considerable applause. It was agreed that the slim of $2,500.00 be allowed for the Amaranth Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star in conformity with a resolution adopted at the 77th Annual Grand Communication for the total sum of $5,000.00 for this project.
When the time arrived for the election of officers, the Committee on Credentials reported a total of 312 votes present and that 157 would be necessary for a choice of elected candidates. Following this the tellers were appointed, the election was held and the following Grand Officers were elected: Frank A. B. Hall, Cincinnati, Grand Master; Everett J. Gatliff, Toledo, Deputy Grand Master; Harrison L. Adams Cleveland, Senior Grand Warden; Addison B. Reed, Steubenville, Junior Grand Warden; Otis G. Fields, Toledo, Grand Treasurer, and Howard T. Greer, Cincinnati, Grand Secretary.
The Grand Lodge decided that the annual convocation should take place on the first Monday during the third Wednesday of August and to continue for three days if necessary for completion of the work.
In February, 1928, definite plans were made for the completion of the new building on the Masonic Home grounds. On February 5, Brother Charles L. Porter reported that the expense incurred to date in the erection of the new dormitory amounted to $13,896.60, and that to this expense the Amaranth Grand Chapter, Order of Eastern Star had contributed $8,203.30, and the Grand Lodge had added $3,500.00, to the total amount of $11,703.30. However, there was a deficit for work completed of $2,193.30. Brother Porter reported that the amount still necessary for completion would be $13,181.90.
The Grand Trustees then went into conference and decided to contract a loan for $15,000.00 from one of the banking institutions of Urbana for the purpose of meeting all present obligations and for the completion of the new Masonic dormitory. A resolution to this effect was approved and signed by the representatives of the two grand jurisdictions, the Grand Lodge and the Order of Eastern Star, Frank A. B. Hall, Grand Master and Ida M. Williams, Royal Grand Matron, each Grand Body assuming one-half the responsibility. This loan was secured from The People's Savings and Loan Company of Urbana, Ohio, at a 7 per cent interest. The papers necessary for the signatures of the Grand Trustees of the Grand Lodge were forwarded to the Grand Master for approval and then to the other Trustees.
Having had recommendations from the Grand Master concerning the study of insurance, the Committee on insurance, Brothers L. H. Cox, Chairman, John H. Bowles, and W. F. Speaks presented a report stating that the compulsory insurance idea was not in keeping with the tenants of Masonry when it required the membership of the Craft to subscribe to that which was not of their own free will mid accord. If the Grand Lodge desired to compel its members to take out insurance under penalty of the loss of Masonic standing, it was regarded as necessary that there should be a complete schedule of insurance rates provided by the State I insurance commission, before the same could be placed in operation.
The committee also added that under sanction of the Grand Lodge, there had been a voluntary association known as the Ideal Masonic Mutual Benefit Association composed of Masons only and that this organization had been in operation for the past 21 year's. Under the present plan each beneficiary received about $220.00 based upon the payment of fifty cents at the death of each member. Recently the age limit had been fixed as not to exceed 52 years. The opinion of the committee was that since this organization was serving the purpose that it best served the principles also of Masonry. When the time came to consider the Burial Relief Program special committee on this subject was appointed with the understanding that a plan was to be submitted at the next grand session of the Grand Lodge.
On August 5, 1928, the program for the dedication of the Home was held with Grand Master Frank A. B. Hall of the Grand Lodge and Miss Ida M. Williams Grand Matron of the Order of Eastern Star and a goodly number of officers and members. The Mayor of the city, C. C. Craig and Congressman Brand, were present to offer their greetings. Champion Lodge Band of Springfield rendered appropriate selections in music. Following the dedication there was a general inspection of the building and a dinner was served in the dining room of the men's dormitory.
Another of the events reported by Grand Master hall was the dedication of the new Masonic Temple of St. Mark's Lodge No. 7, Columbus Ohio at 19th and Long Streets. This was the first newly constructed Masonic Temple in Ohio. The members of St. Mark's Lodge and Gloria Lodge were out in large numbers. In fact, there were 225 Masons in the line of march and at least 500 members of the Order with their friends and relatives present. The Grand Master reported "it was a memorable day for Columbus." He added ''the members of St. Mark's Lodge deserve great credit for this wonderful building."
The election of officers resulted in the following: Frank A. B. Hall, Cincinnati, Grand Master; Everett J. Gatliff, Toledo, Deputy Grand Master; Harrison L. Adams, Cleveland, Senior Grand Warden; Addison B. Reed, Steubenville, Junior Grand Warden; Otis G. Fields, Toledo, Grand Treasurer, and Hoard T. Greer, Cincinnati, Grand Secretary.
At the session of this Grand Lodge on August 7, 1928, St. Paul Lodge No. 100 in Campbell, Ohio, was issued a warrant of constitution. The original officers of the Lodge were: William M. Hale, Worshipful Master; Edward D. Williams, Senior Warden; McKinley Wesson, Junior Warden; Harry Bridges, Treasurer, and Henry Fulton, Secretary. On the same day, Evergreen Lodge No. 101 of Ravenna, Ohio, was warranted by the Grand Lodge, August 7, 1928. The warrant was issued to F. M. Proctor, Worshipful Master; Henry Grant, Senior Warden and Charles Milton, Junior Warden. A third warrant was issued to Cedar Lodge No. 102 of Medina, Ohio, from this Grand Lodge. The warrant being issued to William Medley, Worshipful Master; Henry Medley, Senior Warden; Huston Johnson, Junior Warden William Noe, Treasurer, and James Madison, Secretary.
The 80th Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge for the State of Ohio and its Jurisdiction, Prince Hall Affiliation, met in the city of Cincinnati, August 6-7 1929. After the opening of a lodge of Master Masons the Grand Lodge was opened in due form. Following the report the Committee on Credentials, the standing committees appointed and the Grand Master began his address.
In referring to the past year, the Grand Master stated, "A retrospective glance at the year which has transpired since last we met in session, affords much cause for congratulations and thanksgiving for the manifold blessings vouchsafe in our Masonic capacity." This statement gave no indication of the impending financial storm which was about to break over the nation or of the experiences which had been difficult for the Grand Lodge to meet. He called upon them to be grateful for the blessings which had come to them, and said that the lodges within the Jurisdiction had had a quiet year and they had been able to prosecute their work with commendable intelligence.
The Grand Master's first official letter, September 25, 1928, called attention to the Masonic Home Tax expected of each financial member, ten cents monthly for the support of the Home. No member was to be exempt from this taxation because the two well equipped buildings had to be maintained. He said that it had afforded him and would afford the Grand Lodge much cause for congratulations and thanksgiving because the lodges had had a year of quiet and they had made commendable progress in the prosecution of their work. The Book of Constitution had been revised and adopted, and it supplied a long felt need by the Grand Lodge. On all questions that had been raised he found no opposition and respectful acquiescence to the opinion of the Grand Master and cooperation with his official acts.
He reported that a bill had been introduced in the Ohio Legislature for the registration of emblems, badges and insignias of all secret organizations as a means of establishing their legitimacy. This bill had been called to his attention by Brother Harry E. Davis of Cleveland. It was known as Senate Bill #1507 as introduced in the Senate and was in the hands of a Senate Committee and readily to be reported out favorably. However, the bill died in the committee, and the Grand Master complimented Brother Davis for his farsightedness.
Grand Master Hall was sending out letters to the lodges and keeping up his correspondence with lodge officials. One letter referred to the Masonic Home tax and its collection, a second letter referred to the creation of a more intimate fraternal relationship with adjacent dependent Masonic ledges organized in Ohio, such as the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons and the subordinate chapters, the Royal and Select Masters, the Grand Commandery of Knights Templars and the members of subordinate Commanderies and all associated bodies in the State of Ohio. The Grand Lodge had already passed a provision that no member of the Jurisdiction having reached the degree of Master Mason could take the degrees of the Lodge of Perfection, Chapter of Rose Croix or the Consistory of Scottish Rite, or any of the bodies depending thereon nor rights of the Mystic Shrine nor any secret or fraternal organization depending upon Master Masons for existence other than the Order of the Eastern Star unless they had first received the degree of Royal Arch Masons Knights Templars and are in good and regular standing in some chapter of Royal Arch or Commandery of Knights Templars. He said that the adoption of this recommendation was for the purpose of building up the commanderies of Ohio and creating a greater interest in the Knighthood of the Order.
A third letter called attention to the desire for a thanksgiving donation of $1.00 to the new building cause on the Masonic Home grounds. A fourth letter directed attention to the observance of St. John's Day on or about June 24, as an ancient custom which needed to be continued.
A new lodge had been set up in Ashtabula, Ohio, by the Grand Master with the cooperation of the members of King Solomon Lodge No. 87, of Warren, the nearest Masonic lodge to Ashtabula. The name selected was Simon of Cyrene No. 104, and its charter was received on August 6, 1929. Its first officers were: W. C. Blake, Worshipful Master; G. Saunders, Senior Warden; F. W. Lyons, Junior Warden; W. Johnson, Secretary and W. O. Holly, Treasurer. A new ledge was also established at Painesville with a large number of brothers from nearby lodges attending. This ledge was known as Ross-Bethel Lodge No. 105. Its first officers were: John G. Smith, Worshipful Master; Maurice Butler, Senior Warden; Raymond Jackson, Junior Warden; C. A. Wooten, Treasurer and C. J. Freemon, Secretary.
In referring to the relationship with the Order or Eastern Star, Grand Master Hall stated that the Eastern Star was a part of the Ohio Jurisdiction but "It never was intended for women to be Masons, but it was intended that they should share in the benefits of the Order. Any man that is a Mason who has ever been at the opening of a lodge must admit this one thing. They have a large number of chapters over the Jurisdiction of Ohio, they conduct their own Order agreeable to this Grand Lodge, they comply with our lawn and have men who are members of this Grand Body an their Patrons and they are an inspiration to us."
In referring to the Home for the aged Masons, widows and orphans at Urbana, he stated that the operation of the Home cost the Grand Lodge about $5,000.00 which had been raised through a system of taxation of ten cents a month from each member of the Grand Lodge and the Order of the Eastern Star. He said there were eight to ten members of the Order and widows there this year, and that we could keep double that number for the amount that it is costing to run the Home. It was reported that they had been able to pay off about $2,500.00 on the indebtedness to the lumber firm and plumber and that so far as he could ascertain they still owed about $337.00 and suggested that this be paid before the close of the Grand Lodge.
Clandestine Masonry was referred to and
particularly those lodges which were giving their degrees in small
localities and at reduced cost to the applicants. He said, "Their
method is
crude and their Knowledge of Freemasonry is as a rule very limited,
yet the cheapness of the degrees offered and with their fluent
tongue they easily deceive honest men and impose their clandestine
fraternal work upon them. Brethren again to refer to the goal
that must be our aim; we must meet the issue squarely. These imposters,
with their deception, confuse many wood melt of our race and keen
the Jurisdiction disturbed. If we would curb this detestable curse
upon legitimate Masonry, use their own weapons upon them, it can
be done and legitimately. Let us put our minimum initiation fees
within the reach of the average earner of our Sate."
The Grand Lecturers, Brothers Samuel Sams, Charles A. Jackson, Bezin Talbot and Walter N. Nickerson, gave good reports concerning their work, the visitation to lodes which were found in excellent condition and were carrying, on good ritualistic and organized work.
One of the important presentations at this Grand Lodge was the proposal to organize a Burial Relief Association. This was presented by the Burial Relief Committee. The proposal was to organize a permanent and perpetual charitable fund for the purpose of relieving suffering, aiding and assisting the widows and legal orphans in the burial of worthy deceased Master Masons. The plan called for a special tax of $4.50 upon every Master Mason in the lodges chartered or under dispensation and under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of the State of Ohio and its Jurisdiction. There was to be a permanent and perpetual charitable board of three Master Masons with the Grand Master and Secretary of the Grand Lodge as members. This board was to control, manage, administer and allow all claims of charity and keep accurate records and report to the Grand Lodge. It was provided that after the fund had been created that the sum of $300.00 as allowance of charity would be paid to aid and assist in the burial of the deceased Mason. Each Master Mason was also taxed for $1.00 parable quarterly after June 30, 1931. The Grand Lodge considered this but took no action upon it.
At the same time, there was the report of the Ideal Masonic Mutual Benefit Association which was 23 years old, having been organized at Lima, Ohio, in August, 1906. The report showed that this association had paid $220.00 to widows on the death of Master Masons, member of the lodge. It was also shown that this payment had increased front $39.00 to its present sum without too great financial burden. The submission of this report through Brother John H. Bowles, Secretary Treasurer and Charles E. Gordon, President, had its effect in bringing about hesitation for the adoption of the Burial Relief Report.
The officers elected for the next year wore: Frank A. B. Hall, Grand Master, Cincinnati; Everett J. Gatliff, Deputy Grand Master, Toledo; Addison B. Reed, Senior Grand Warden, Steubenville; Homer Collins, Junior Grand Warden, Piqua; Otis G. Fields, Grand Treasurer, Toledo, and Howard T. Greer, Grand Secretary, Cincinnati.
The financial reports to the Grand Lodge of the Grand Treasurer and Grand Secretary showed receipts of $11,904.18, with a balance of $1,529.21 as of August 5, 1929. The total receipts for the Masonic Home were $5,338.78, and the total disbursements $5,298.01, leaving a balance of $40.77.
The International Conference of Grand Masters, Past Grand Masters and Grand Secretaries, assembled in Chicago, August 12-16, 1929. The representatives of the Grand Lodge of Ohio were: Grand Master Frank A. B. Hall and Grand Secretary Howard T. Greer. There were representatives of a large number of Wand Lodges present and only a, few Jurisdiction were not represented. This conference was only an advisory one, in its relationship to the Grand Lodge Jurisdictions. It was wind that a closer relationship between these Jurisdictions was most advisable. The Conference agreed upon a more uniform system of ritualistic work and the representatives promised to advocate this in their Jurisdiction. The Grand Master of the Jurisdiction of Tennessee, Brother J. A. Gathrie, was elected President of the Conference, and Brother Howard T. Career, Past. Grand Master of Ohio way elected secretary for the newt three years.
It was of interest to note that the prize banner for the best Drill Shrine Patrol was won by Sinai Temple No. 59, A.E.A.O.N.M.S of Cincinnati. This was a distinguished honor and the representatives of Ohio were proud of it. There was still another honor which was obtained, the Knights Templars' parade had Ohio at the head of one of its divisions. It was found that Ohio's Knights Templars did not have, a banner, but they soon were able to make a beautiful banner in a few hours with big letters across the front "Ohio" and it was reported as they marched along they were cheered by hundreds of people who apparently were either front Ohio or were friends of the Jurisdiction.
The 81st; Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons, Prince Hall affiliation for the Mate of Ohio and Jurisdiction assembled at Newark, Ohio, August 18-19 1930, with Grand Master Frank A. B. Hall and Grand Secretary, Elmer L. Burns, in their respective office together with the elected and appointive officers of the last Grand Lodge. A lodge of Master Masons was opened on August 15, and then raised to, ill die and ample form, it Grand Lodge for the transaction of business.
The Grand Master in his opening, remarks described the peace and prosperity of the Craft and stated that with exception of one or two instances there was undisturbed harmony within the Jurisdiction. Grand Master Hall stated that on April 18, 1930 he had arrested the Jewel of Brother Howard T. Greer Past Grand Master and Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge. There were complaints front lodges, he said, that he would not answer communications, did not give receipts for money and did not send acknowledgments of the same, and there were other criticisms concerning, various matters which were regarded as his duties. The report was made that he had not nude arrangements for the printing of the anneal proceedings. Since he failed to get out the proceedings for 1925, the Grand Master had recommended that the 1923 and 1929 minutes be printed and bound under one cover and distributed after the close of the 1929 session. This action was approved by the Grand lodge and in spite of several approaches by letters, the minutes of these sessions were not issued during 1929, and they were not issued in 1930.
It was also stated by the Grand Master that Acre had been neglect of the payment of the tapes for the Masonic Home and that this had contributed to this desire to arrest the Jewel of the Grand Secretary, because he was supposed to transfer these sums to the Masonic Hone account. Those actions were typical of Grand Master Hall who was an aggressive individual. It was a close adherent to the law and the Masonic constitution, its rules and regulations, and whenever there was any variation from this he was immediately active in bringing correction to hear on given situations. He had apparently no malice against Brother Greer for he recommended that ho receive a reasonable portion of his salary for the period of his service.
Emphasis was given by the Grand Master to the relationships with the affiliated bodies of the Jurisdiction, and particularly to the Amaranth Grand Chapter of the Order of Eastern Star which he said the Grand Lodge was proud of, under the guidance of Miss Ida M. Williams, the Royal Grand Matron. He said, "The only thing that I am apprehensive of is that some of the Patrons in their zealousness may disturb the peaceful operation of our female bodies. The future Grand Masters must see that the men of this Jurisdiction who are selected as Grand or other Patrons observe this rule, and that their presence at the meetings are to advise and not to dictate.
The general condition of the lodges was regarded by him as good although "this has been an unusually dull year" and that some of the lodges in the rural sections have had some difficulty in meeting their obligations on account of the drought and in places where the chief fields of labor were the mines they were unable to pay their Home tax promptly. There was no mention made of the depression which had already begun its rise.
One of the lodges, the B. K. Bruce Lodge No. 75, had been having Borne trouble since 1928 and 1929, in conducting its activities and had surrendered its charter. The Grand Master recommended that the membership he granted a certificate of membership so that they could apply to other lodges. In another case, Fidelity Lodge at Madisonville, it was reported that the lodge had been unable to find its charter and it was authorized later that a duplicate charter would be issued to this lodge. There were a number of official visits reported by Grand Master Hall. In fact, they were very extensive visits because it was his idea that the lodges should be visited by their Grand Master. A considerable number of decisions were given by him and submitted for the approval of the Grand Lodge, all of which were so approval.
Reference was made to the fact that four years ago when the Grand Lodge, assembled, there was sonic fear of an effort which was planned to organize another Grand Lodge in the State but that the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons, Prince Hall Affiliation, was still "the proprietor of the whole system of symbolic Masonry, Prince Hall affiliation in the State of Ohio." He said, "we own the foundation upon which the whole fraternity must build, upon other foundation dare no man build," The report was made that the Grand Lodge had been "diligent and uncompromising in the maintenance of its solvency and the exercise of its supreme power. It has never and it will never hesitate to stamp out the brand of illegality upon guy lodge, subordinate or grand, in this State claiming to be Free and Accepted Masons that has not its sanctions and is not recognized throughout the Masonic world as descending front Prince Hall of Massachusetts."
In referring to his long term as Grand Master, he said, "It has not been our intention to build up a political machine that we have a machine that is no doubt true, and that machine is you; every person sitting under the sound of my voice is a member of this great Masonic machine; ever one of us has a duty to perform as a Mason in order that the several parts may function properly; there can and should not be any drones in this hive of nature; each individual is a cylinder and this machine must be hitting on all cylinders; and there must not be any misses; the cause of all knocks must be carefully looked into."
The reports of the Past Master's Council, the Historiographer, the Grand Secretary incl the Grand Lecturers followed in rapid succession. The Committee on Charter and Dispensation recommended that the loss of the charter of B. K. Bruce Lodge No. 75, Athen, Ohio, be replaced with a duplicate charter and that the lost charter of Harmony lodge No. 77, Dayton, Ohio, he also replaced until in each case the original charters were found. The receipts as reported by the Grand Secretary Elmer L. Burns and Grand Treasurer Otis . Fields totaled $5,997.13. The total expenses were $2,364.73, leaving a balance at this session of $3,63240. The total receipts to the Masonic Home were $5,723.97, and the total disbursements $5,417.86, leaving a balance of $306.11.
It, was authorized lay resolution that photographs he taken of fast Grand Masters Greer, Logan, Porter, Holland and hall tinder whose administrations the Masonic Home at Urhaana was conceived, purchased and established and that their photographs he framed and hung in the Masonic Home at Urbana, Ohio. A committee was appointed to secure these photographs and to sec that they- were placed in the Masonic home.
Since the Grand Lodge had failed to adopt the Burial And Resolution, it was unanimously agreed that all Brothers were to give their support to the Ideal Masonic Mutual Benefit Association until some other. plan was approved in the Grand Lodge.
The Grand Officers elected were: Everett J. Gatliff, Toledo, Grand Master: Albert C. Alford, Depuly Grand Master, Marietta, Addison H. Reed, Senior Grand Warden, Steubenville: Homer H. Collins, Junior Grand Warden, Piqua Otis G. Fields, Grand Treasurer, Toledo, and Elmer L. Burns, Grand Secretary, Springfield.
When Grand Master Hall was elected first
to his position, he had a good foundation which had been built
by Grand Master, who had preceded him. However, a good building
was erected be him upon these foundations. His firms expression
of opinion, his dynamic and courageous leadership and his presentation
of his views gave influence to the positions which he took. Strong
in his friendships and with a capacity to lead he made forceful
presentations of his abilities and through his emphasis upon Masonic
tenets he may be regarded as one of the builders of Masonry in
Ohio.
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