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Masonic Lodges Will Celebrate The Bicentennial
A Masonic Meeting on November 22nd at 7:30 will honor George Washington’s bicentennial. Unity Lodge No. 146, Hiram Royal Arch Chapter No. 45, and John Dove Royal Arch Chapter No. 21 will unite in Front Royal Lodge Rooms. Reverend Arthur Wake will speak, and wives and daughters of Masons are invited. Read more
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Front Royal Lodges Exhibit Fraternity
Front Royal’s “New Deal” program embodies cooperation and civic loyalty, closely tied to the town’s historical Fraternal organizations. Freemasonry has played a significant role since 1799, with Unity Lodge No. 146 still active, and the Order of the Eastern Star established in 1910. These organizations continue to contribute to the community’s spirit of fraternity. Read more
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Benjamin James Hillidge
Benjamin James Hillidge, mayor of Front Royal since 1918, is a dedicated and influential figure. Born in New York in 1871, his career includes teaching, railway work, and founding the Locust Pin Company, recognized for its contributions during World War I. He is also involved in various business, community, and civic roles. Read more
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Front Royal Lodge Names New Officers
The annual election of officers for Unity Lodge 146, A. F. & A. M. was held at the Masonic Temple, resulting in the selection of James H. Shiner as Worshipful Master, among others. The installation of these officers is scheduled for December 27. Read more
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A Surprising History
In a letter to Bro. Carson, Geo. W. Forsyth reveals the surprising history of the Masonic Order in Front Royal. Despite limited records, a chance encounter at the Grand Lodge leads to the discovery of a lodge dating back to 1799. The subsequent celebration of this centenary event unites Masons from across the state. Read more
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Masonic History of Front Royal
The torn clipping from The Warren Sentinel, published on February 26, 1926, reveals the Masonic history of Front Royal. It includes details about the establishment, dormancy, and revival of various lodges in the town, such as Chester Lodge No. 61 and Front Royal Lodge No. 102. This historical account spans from 1799 to 1870. Read more
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Attend Grand Lodge Session
On February 11, 1926, the Richmond Times-Dispatch reported the attendance of the Worshipful Master, past masters, and others at the Grand Lodge of Virginia’s meeting of Masons, including P. M. Shirey, J. L. Borden, J. P. Borden, and Ref. W. C. Deering. Read more
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Contract to remodel temple on Main St.
In 1925, the Manufacturers Record Exponent of America mentioned a contract with L. I. Poe, Marshall, to remodel Unity Lodge, A. F. and A.M. building on Main Street for a temple, published in Baltimore, Maryland. This reference was on page 109, under the “Building Contracts Awarded” section. Read more
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Front Royal Masons Will Build Temple
The October 29, 1925 edition of the Daily Press reported that the Unity Lodge purchased the R.E. Purdham property on Main Street. The property is set to be remodeled by L.I. Poe into two-story office rooms with a 60×34 foot footprint, extending 60 feet to the rear. This initiative was featured on page 12. Read more
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Front Royal Masons Will Build Temple
The Front Royal Masons are constructing a temple on Main Street at the R. E. Purdham property for $15,000. The building will have office rooms, be two stories high, and have a 60×34 footprint. It will also be extended 60 feet in the rear. Read more

