Category: Lodge History

  • Front Royal Methodist Episcopal Church Corner-Stone Laying

    Front Royal Methodist Episcopal Church Corner-Stone Laying

    On August 2, 1905, Unity Lodge, No. 146, A. F. and A. M. laid the corner-stone at the Front Royal Methodist Episcopal Church. The event was witnessed by a large crowd, including 125 participating Masons and the Grand Master of Masons in Virginia. Read more

  • Invitation of Spurmont to Corner-Stone Laying

    Invitation of Spurmont to Corner-Stone Laying

    On August 1, 1905, the Alexandria Gazette reported the invitation of Spurmont Lodge to the laying of a corner-stone at the Front Royal Methodist Church and their participation in the ceremonies by Unity Lodge. Read more

  • Laying of Corner Stone of M. E. Church, South, Front Royal, Va.

    Laying of Corner Stone of M. E. Church, South, Front Royal, Va.

    On August 4, 1905, the Shenandoah Herald published an article regarding the laying of a cornerstone at Methodist Episcopal Church South in Front Royal on August 3. Many lodges were in attendance with over 100 Masons. Unity Lodge No. 146 assisted the Grand Master of Masons in Virginia in performing the ceremony. One of Unity Read more

  • Jurisdictional Complaint

    Jurisdictional Complaint

    In 1903, a Virginia Mason faced a unique situation when he was expelled by a lodge in West Virginia for being a non-affiliate. However, he was later found to be a member of a Virginia lodge before the expulsion. The grand master expressed frustration at the situation, unable to resolve before his term ended. Read more

  • 1882 Act to Amend Lease Third Story of School

    1882 Act to Amend Lease Third Story of School

    In 1882, the Front Royal school building underwent a significant amendment, allowing four secret order lodges to erect a third story for their use. The act ratified and confirmed this lease, authorizing the trustees to execute it for a 99-year term. The lodges were also made responsible for a portion of necessary repairs and renewals. Read more

  • Summary of 1881

    Summary of 1881

    Unity Lodge No. 146 in the 14th Masonic District elected officers and mourned its members in 1881. Notable events included the Grand Master’s visit, deaths of three members, participation in the Grand Masonic Excursion and the Yorktown Centennial. The lodge was represented at the Grand Annual Communication in Richmond. Read more

  • Summary of 1880

    Summary of 1880

    In 1880, Unity Lodge No. 146 included 42 Masons, constituting 21% of district 14. The Lodge officers were elected in June. Events included Masonic gatherings and cornerstone layings. The Lodge had a prominent presence in significant Masonic events of the year. Read more

  • Summary of 1879

    Summary of 1879

    Unity Lodge No. 146, part of Virginia’s Grand Lodge, had 47 members, constituting 23% of its district. By 1879, lodges under its jurisdiction totaled 205. The District Deputy Grand Master visited on May 6, marking an important event. The membership’s occupations and happenings showcased the varied interests and activities of its members locally and beyond. Read more

  • Summary of 1878

    Summary of 1878

    Unity Lodge No. 146 had 47 Masons. Lodges elected officers, updated memberships, and participated in charitable efforts. Yellow Fever Relief efforts were significant. Masonic meetings were routine. Read more

  • Summary of 1877

    Summary of 1877

    In 1877, the 14th Masonic District in Virginia underwent changes, with Greenway Court Lodge No. 94 surrendering its charter. Thomas L. Kirby was elected as Master of Unity Lodge No. 146. Significant events included the founding of a public school and the devastating flood in November, which claimed lives and caused widespread damage. Read more

  • Charter Issued for Front Royal Lodge No. 102

    Charter Issued for Front Royal Lodge No. 102

    At the Grand Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge of Virginia in 1816, a dispensation was issued for the establishment of Front Royal Lodge, No. 102, with Cyrus B. Baldwin as Master, James B. Rice as Senior Warden, and Henry Van Meter as Junior Warden. The resolution for the charter’s issue was passed. Read more

  • Masonic Mutual Benefit Association

    Masonic Mutual Benefit Association

    On February 11, 1873, the Spirit of Jefferson reported the election of Thomas N. Ashby as President of the Masonic Mutual Benefit Association, with Jno. T. Lovell joining the General Board of Directors. This significant event was covered in the Charles Town, West Virginia newspaper. Read more