DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
While it was In this political division of the United States of America that the Order of Knights of Pythias had Its birth, yet with a view to preserve the uniformity of the plan upon which this work has been prepared, the statement of its rise and progress in the District of Columbia is given here, In its alphabetical order.
As the story of the institution of Washington Lodge No.1 is given in detail in the opening portion, only such reference thereto as may be necessary for the completeness of this chapter, will be made here. For the remainder, the reader is referred to the chapter, entitled "The birth of the Order," and the complete minutes of Washington Lodge No.1, therein given.
WASHINGTON LODGE NO.1. Washington. Instituted February 19,1864. Potomac Lodge No.4, consolidated with No.1, May 26, 1865. Washington Lodge No.1, consolidated with Franklin Lodge No.2, October 9. 1865. Washington Lodge No.1, Knights of Pythias was instituted in Temperance Hall, E Street, N. W., Washington, District of Columbia, on the evening of February 19th, 1864, and the following were the first officers: JUSTUS H. RATHBONE, Worthy Chancellor; JOEL R. WOODRUFF, Worthy Vice Chancellor; JOSEPH T. K. PLANT, Venerable Patriarch; D. L. BUBNETT, Worthy Scribe; A. D. VANDERVEER, Worthy Banker.
And the Worthy Chancellor made the following appointments: GEORGE R. COVERT, Assistant Scribe; R. A. CHAMPION, Assistant Banker; MATT H. VANDERVEEB, Worthy Guide; A. RODERIQUE, Inside Steward.
CHORAL KNIGHTS: E. S. Kimball, Charles H. Roberts, D. L. Burnett, and W. H. Burnett. .
On April 29th, 1865, Potomac No.4, made a proposition to consolidate with No.1, and at the meeting on May 26, 1865, the membership of No.4 attended, . and, after a conference, were enrolled on the roster of Washington Lodge No.1.
The Lodge ceased meeting, in July, 1865, and on September 28, 1865, a committee from Washington Lodge No.1, met a like Committee from Franklin Lodge No.2, at Temperance Hall, and delivered to the latter all its properties, the delivery being conditioned upon the payment, by Franklin Lodge, of arrears in rent of Temperance Hall, and the receiving into membership all members of Washington Lodge not in arrears at the time the latter ceased meeting, and who presented themselves before Franklin Lodge within one month from October 2. 1865. The facts as to this consolidation, appear fully in the minutes of Franklin No.2, under date of October 9, 1865, and mark the passing of this the first Lodge of the Order of Knights of Pythias.
The following are the names of those members of Washington Lodge No.1, who .were entitled to enrollment on the roster of Franklin No.2: JOSEPH T. K. PLANT, A. D. VAN DERVEER, M. LOSANO, R. V. HENRY, LEVI BEECH, J. B. KEASBEY, J. F. WANNELL, S. J. SPARSHOTT, I. I.. COREY, W. R. WHITNEY; L. PROSIDES, B. HARLAN, CHARLES BRADLEY, CHARLES W; FORD, J. R. ZIMMERMAN, DANIEL SWEENEY, RINALDO BROWN, and JOHN MEYER.
Meantime a so-called Grand Lodge was formed. This was organized on April 8, 1864, and consisted of Past elective officers, and Representatives. At the time it was instituted, the Representatives from Washington Lodge No.1, were: JOEL R. WOODRUFF, M. H. VANDERVEER, and A. RODERIQUE. The Grand Chancellor was JOSEPH T. K. PLANT, and M. H. VANDERVEER was Grand Scribe.
Whether or not this governing body existed "by consent of the governed," or was self constituted, no printed or written record discloses. However, its existence is recognized in the minutes of that period of, Washington. No.1, Franklin No.2, and Potomac No.4. During its brief career, it granted Dispensations to organize Franklin Lodge No.2, Columbia Lodge No.3, and Potomac Lodge No.4. With the demise of Washington Lodge No.1, it went out of existence, holding its last meeting, June 13, 1865, having first elected a complete set of officers. The names of these, as also of their successors, will be found farther on in this chapter .
FRANKLIN LODGE NO.2. Washington. Instituted April 12, 1864. Washington Lodge consolidated with it, October 9, 1865. Liberty Lodge consolidated with it, March 13, 1878, thereby carrying in Golden Rule Lodge No.19, which had consolidated with No.6, July 1, 1874.
As for a considerable period, Franklin Lodge was the sole representative of Pythian Knighthood, thus became the mother Lodge, and, uninterruptedly, has maintained its organization to the present, space is given here to many details regarding it that would otherwise have been omitted.
Taking up the happenings in succession, it appears that on April 10, 1864; the movement with a view to organizing a second Lodge of the Order took shape. The following is an exact copy of the original petition addressed to the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, for the issuance of a Dispensation for a Lodge at the Navy Yard, Washington, and which was granted to Franklin No.2:
"Washington, D. C. "To the G. a. of Knights of Pythias of the Dist. of Col. "We the undersigned, being desirous of forming a Lodge of the K. of P. respectfully ask a Dispensation to form said Lodge in the Navy Yard. Respectfully yours, "Robert J. Middleton, Hudson Pettit, Edward Fox, Nicholas Wayson, James E. Gill, Edward Dunn, Clarence M. Barton, Daniel Carrigan, George Norton, Joseph H. Lawrence, John W. Kelly, Francis Langley, James H. Wheeler." Received April 10, 1864; Charter granted April 12, 1864
The endorsement on the side is in the handwriting of C. M. Barton, after- wards the Grand Recording and Corresponding Scribe.
Pursuant to notice, ROBERT J. MIDDLETON, JAMES E. GILL, EDWARD Fox, NICHOLAS WYSON, GEORGE NORTON, J. H. WHEELER, DANIEL CARRIGAN, JOSEPH H. LAWRENCE, CLABENCE M. BARTON, H. PETTIT, all original petitioners, and JASPER SCOTT, met, at half-past seven o'clock, on the evening of April 12, 1864, in the hall of the Anacostia Fire Company,* for the purpose of organizing a Lodge of the Order of Knights of Pythias. Of the original" petitioners, EDW ARD DUNN, .JOHN W. KELLY, and FRANCIS LANGLEY were absent, so the minutes state. The first two appeared at the second meeting, April 22, 1864, but Francis Langley failed to join, and, in his place, in the Dispensation which was issued, appears the name of Jasper Scott, thus making thirteen Charter members.
*Note. The Anacostia Fire House was situated on 9th Street, between Virginia Avenue and K Street. S. E., and is" now (1903) occupied as a school of cookery in connection with the public school system of the District of Columbia.
DANIEL CARRIGAN presided, and the following were elected as the first officers : DANIEL CARRIGAN, Worthy Chancellor; ROBERT J. MIDDLETON, Venerable Patri- arch; JAMES E. GILL, Worthy Banker; EDWARD Fox, Vice Chancellor; CLARENCE M. BARTON, Worthy Scribe; NICHOLAS WAYSON, Worthy Guide; JOSEPH H. LAWRENCE, Inner Steward; H. PETTIT, Outer Steward.
The foregoing is the order in which the names and offices are given in the original minutes, which also say: " A motion was then made to name the Lodge, and, after a few suggestions, the name" of 'Franklin' was unanimously adopted." Further, they state: "The worthy brethren of the Grand Lodge Then proceeded to initiate two of our brethren for the purpose of instructing the " Lodge in the mysteries, and secret workings, of the Order ," thus evidencing a recognition of a general governing body. In addition to this, DANIEL CARRI- GAN, CLARENCE M. BARTON and GEORGE NORTON, were "appointed Representatives to the Grand Lodge."
This first meeting was held on a Tuesday, and it "adjourned to meet again on Friday evening, 22nd inst., at Odd Fellows Hall * Navy Yard, South East.
*Note. .'Odd Fellows Hall," in which Franklin Lodge met, and Mount Vernon Lodge was instituted, was situated on 8th Street, near G. Street, S. E.., and is now (1903) occupied by Colored Odd Fellows.
The following is a copy of the original Dispensation issued by the Grand Chancellor of the District of Columbia, to the persons therein named, to organize Franklin Lodge No. 2 : -
"TO ALL WHOM IT MAY CONCERN. "WHEREAS, We, Jos. T. K. Plant, Grand Chancellor of the Grand Lodge of the Knights of Pythias of the District of Columbia, have received a petition from a constitutional number of persons who have been regularly vouched for, which petition sets forth, that they are desirous of establishing anew Lodge of this Order, in this jurisdiction, and re- questing a DISPENSATION for the same, and whereas. there appears to us good and sufficient cause for granting the prayer of the said petitioners, .'NOW KNOW YE that we, the Grand Chancellor aforesaid, by virtue of the powers In us vested by the Constitution of the Order, do hereby grant this our Dispensation to DANIEL CARRIGAN.. Worthy Chancellor. H. PETTIT.. Outer Steward. ROBERT J. MIDDLETON, Venerable Patriarch. EDWARD Fox.. Vice Chancellor. JAMES E. GII,L, Worthy Banker. CLARENCE M. BARTON Worthy Scribe. Jos. H. LAWRENCE.. Inner Steward. NICHOLAS WAY SON.. Worthy Guide. GEORGE NORTON. EDWARD DUNN. JASPER SCOTT. JOHN W. KELLY. .J. H. WHEELER.
to form said Lodge to be known as FRANKLIN LODGE NO.2, Knights of Pythias, Wash- ington, D. C., and this our Dispensation shall continue of force until the Grand Lodge shall grant a full charter for the same, or this Dispensation be revoked by us or by the Grand Lodge aforesaid.
'.Given under our hand and seal of the Grand Lodge this 14th day of April, 1864. Grand Lodge M. H. VAN DERVEER, JOS. T. K. PLANT.. Seal. Grand Scribe. Grand Chancellor .,
It will be observed that this document is. dated April 14th, 1864, two days subsequent to the first meeting-also, that it includes twelve of the original petitioners, together with Jasper Scott, and omits Francis Langley.
The second meeting was held on Friday, April 22, 1864, at the Oddfellows Hall, Navy Yard S. E., and at that time two of the absent petitioners, EDWARD DUNN, and JOHN W. KELLY, were elected to membership, initiated, and received the first and second degrees (equivalent to the present "three ranks")-at the same time, JOHN W. CROSS and WILLIAM H. GETEZENDANNER were also admitted to membership.
At this time, the work and business of a Lodge of the Order was conducted in the initiatory.
It was decided to hold the regular meetings on Friday of each week, at the Oddfellows Hall, Navy Yard, S. E.
Before continuing the record of Franklin Lodge, the following incident con- nected with its institution, may serve as an illustration of the conditions then existing in the city of Washington, and the watch kept by the government over all congregations of a secret character. It was during one of the most critical periods in the nation's history and of the Civil War then at its height.
Among the petitioners was one JOHN W. KELLY. He received the degrees at the second meeting, April 22, 1864. It is of him that the story treats. It was narrated to the author, by Brother EDWARD DUNN-an honorary Past Supreme Chancellor-at a meeting, held in the Grand Lodge office, Washington, Decem- ber 10, 1896, composed of old members of the first Lodges, whose advice, infor- mation and counsel was sought in connection with securing accurate data re- garding the pioneer days of the Order in the District of Columbia. As to this particular incident, the author was so impressed with its recital that he re- quested Brother Dunn to repeat it to a stenographer. This he did, and the fol- lowing is the full text of the story of the Kelly episode: -
"The first important incident that occurred to us was with reference to the traitor Kelly. My wife came to me on the morning of April 27, 1864, and said: 'Your box has been broken open.' Upon examination I found that the secret properties of the Lodge were exposed. On April 28, I received an order from General Zealand, Commanding Officer of the Marine Corps, to proceed at once to the Navy Department and report myself to the Secretary of the Navy, Gideon WeIls. At that time things were very ticklish about the District of Columbia. I felt that I was going to be imprisoned for something. I had the forethought to take the Ritual of the Order with me. Something struck me when I got to Seventh Street. I got off at D Street and met Plant. I said to him 'Good morning, I have been ordered to the Navy Department,' and we discussed the matter together. Both of us were pretty sure we were being placed under arrest. I went to the Navy Department and was ushered into the Secretary's room. He inquired of me what my official rank was and all connected therewith. He told me to wait and Assistant Secretary Fox would introduce me to Secretary Seward. I went into the State Department with my heart in my mouth. When I arrived at Secretary Seward's office I found Joseph T. K. Plant there. We were, Plant and I, then escorted to the blue room in the President's mansion. We were received there 'Very kindly, both by the President and Mr. Seward, and it came to my mind that as Plant was the senior officer of the Order he should be spokesman. He declined, and I had to take it up. The President said, 'Gentlemen, before we start I want to Introduce one of your members to you.' , And who should come in but Mr. Kelly, the man that had been initiated at the same time I was. The President said, 'Do you know this man?' I said 'Yes, he was initiated ~ same night I was, but he knows nothing of the Order only as far as initiatory is concerned.' Mr. Seward said to me 'Sergeant Major Dunn, is this a political organ' I said 'No, sir.' Mr. Seward said, 'Have you any proofs ?' I said, '1 have.' He said, 'What are your proofs ?' I said, '1 have the Ritual of the Order on my person.' Mr. Seward said, 'Can I see it?' I said, 'No, sir, only with one proviso. If you choose to take the obligation, the same as Mr. Plant and as I have, we will not only read to you but explain to you everything that is in this Ritual.' Mr. Lincoln said at that point, 'That is very fair, my son. Mr. Kelly has done his duty, and has not done any harm. Upon this I said, 'Mr. President, there is a portion of this Ritual that I can dis- close to you. Every member of the Order of Knights of Pythias must be loyal to the flag of his nativity or of his adoption.' .The President said, 'Gentlemen, you are released.' . Mr. Seward shook our hands and assured us that it was only done upon information that they had received. The affair all through conveyed to us the impression that the President and Secretary of State had ordered an investigation, used this man Kelly as the instru- ment, and, upon becoming satisfied that everything was correct, no further steps were taken. The man Kelly referred to was never seen by me afterwards."
In explanation of the expressions in the story, regarding possible arrest, it is only necessary to say that Brother Dunn was at that time a non-commissioned officer in the Marine Corps.
On June 13, 1864, the Lodge changed its night of meeting to Monday.
On July 4, 1864, the following officers were installed by Grand Chancellor Plant: EDWARD Fox, Worthy Chancellor; CLARENCE M. BARTON, Vice Chancel- lor; J. H. LAWRENCE, Worthy Scribe; J. S. MARTIN, Worthy Assistant Scribe; GEORGE NORTON, Worthy Banker; J. .W. CROSS, Worthy Guide; EDWARD DUNN, Inside Steward; JAMES ROACH, Outside Steward; and the minutes showed an increase of 21 during the first quarter, making the total membership, 34.
On July 25, 1864, a resolution was adopted requesting the Grand Lodge to provide that the work and business of a Lodge should be conducted in the third degree.
On October 3, 1864, the following officers were installed by Grand Chancellor Plant: CLARENCE M. BA.RTON, Worthy Chancellor; JOSEPH H. LAWRENCE, Vice Chancellor; EDWARD DUNN, Worthy Scribe; D. CARRIGAN, Assistant Scribe; JOSHUA CLARK, Inside Steward; THOMAS W. CLARK, Outside Steward.
In a communication addressed to Franklin Lodge, Dated October 3rd, 1864, Grand Chancellor Plant says:- "By a vote of the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, Subordinate Lodges are directed to work altogether In the Knight's degree, except when a candidate Is to be in- itiated or a brother raised to a higher degree; then the work must be suspended In the Knight's degree, and when the work is finished In the lower degrees must be resumed in the Knight's degree, and all persons not members of that degree must of necessity leave the room." , And from that time forward, this rule has prevailed.
At the meeting held December 26, 1864, the following officers were elected : JAMES H. LAWRENCE, Worthy Chancellor; EDWARD DUNN, Vice Chancellor; JOHN W. CROSS, Worthy Scribe; GEORGE W. MORTON, Worthy Banker; W. WAYSON, Asst. Scribe; JOHN HOCKE, Worthy Guide; JAMES ROACH, Inside Steward; JOHN SCHULTZ, Outside Steward.
On April 3, 1865, on the completion of its :first year, the following officers - were installed: EDWARD DUNN, Worthy Chancellor; JOHN W. CROSS, Vice Chan- cellor; A. S. COOK, Worthy Scribe; JASPER SCOTT, Asst. Scribe; J. S. MARTIN, Worthy Banker; THOMAS HAMILTON, Worthy Guide; J. H. WHEELER, Inside Steward; G. H. RANDALL, Outside Steward.
During the preceding twelve months, the following had been admitted to mem- bership: S. A. H. MCKERN, JOHN H. KING, JOHN P. LUCAS, THOMAS HAMILTON, JAMES ROACH, MANING HADLEY, EDWARD S. EBBS, JOHN HOLROYD, A. H. EATON, JOSHUA. CLARK, RICHARD T. LAWSON, I. L. HAYGHE, JAMES S. MARTIN, THOMAS W. COOK, GEORGE L. LAWRENCE, JOHN CANNON, RODERICK McMILLAN, JOHN C. BERRY, JOHN W. NOKES, E. M. CAMP. JOHN SEIBLEIN, WILLIAM S. HIGGINS, JOHN ADA.MS, JAMES E. BOTELER, THOMAS BROWN, F. C. POPE, JOHN SCHULTZ, JOHN HOCKE, J. H. CHAUNCEY, J. W. SCHLIEF, J. W. BUCKLEY, G. H. RANDALL.
On April 17, 1865, a committee consisting of J. S. MARTIN, THOMAS W. COOK, JOHN W. CROSS, JOSEPH H. LAWRENCE, and CLARENCE M. BARTON was appointed to submit resolutions in regard to the death of the President, ABRAHAM LIN- COLN, and the following are those reported by the committee and adopted by the Lodge, April 24, 1865: -
WHEREAS, ABRAHAM LINCOLN, late President of the United States, has met a sudden and violent death at the hands of an assassin; and "WHEREAS, by this sudden visitation of Providence, .the Nation has lost one of Its ablest statesmen, and most prominent actor in the establishment of civil liberty; and "WHEREAS, We are called upon, In common with aIl lovers of liberty, to express our profound sorrow on the occasion of this great National bereavement; "THEREFORE resolved, that we humbly bow to the mandate of Almighty God, who doeth all things well, yet we deeply mourn the loss of him, who, by hls simplicity of manner and loving kindness. has endeared himself to every true American heart, and who, after he had guided the Ship of State though four long years of terrible storm, was suddenly struck down before he could enjoy he fruits of his enduring patience and lasting fidelity to the truest principles of human liberty ; "Resolved, that in ABRAHAM LINCOLN we recognize God's noblest work-an honest man ; "Resolved, that we tender our sincere sympathy to the family of the illustrious dead and of the wounded who yet survive in their deep affiiction." ,
In June, 1865, Clarence M. Barton, became Grand Chancellor, and his visits, as such, are noted in the minutes.
Nothing of importance transpired, during this quarter, until the meeting of September 25, 1865, when the minutes of Franklin Lodge show the adoption of the resolutions already referred to, providing for the absorption of the member- ship and properties of Washington Lodge No, 1. 'Subsequently, on October 9, 1865, the committee having the matter in charge reported that it had received all ,the working properties and regalia of No.1, but not its records or seal; Further, that all the terms of the resolution had been agreed to.
While by the report of the committee, it appeared that the books of record of Washington No.1 were missing, yet they were subsequently recovered by the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia. This, the author knows, since, early in 1897, he had possession of them for a time, during which he made a complete photo-reproduction of the minutes of No.1, from its opening to the close.
That at the opening of 1866, Franklin Lodge stood alone, is demonstrated by the minutes of January 1, of that year, wherein it appears that the Grand Lodge having ceased to exist, "the officers were duly installed by Past Chancellor Barton," who was a member of the Lodge.
On April 2, 1866, the minutes say, that "a committee of five, consisting of Thomas Hamilton, Richard T. Lawson, Thomas W. Cook, John H. King, and J. W. Schlief, was appointed to canvass the city for the purpose of organizing a new Lodge of Knights of Pythias.
At this period, Franklin Lodge minutes evidence that it had organized, within itself, a set of "Grand Officers" for the purpose of installations, since it appears that on April 2, 1866, "The Grand Officers pro tem installed the officers of No. 2." This was also in anticipation of the organization of another Lodge, as, at the meeting held on April 16, 1866, the so-called "Grand Officers" instituted Mount Vernon Lodge No.5, the particulars of which are given in the story of the institution of that body.
The record of April 30, 1866, shows the application, election and introduction of JUSTUS H. RATHBONE, by Card from Washington Lodge No. 1-the details ap- pear elsewhere in his biography. At this meeting also a revision of the ritual was ordered by a joint committee from Franklin and Mount Vernon Lodges, and on May 14, 1866, the ritual of the opening and closing ceremonies, and of the "degrees" of Page, Esquire and Knight was then submitted, read by JUSTUS H. RATHBONE, the Chairman of the Committee, and adopted by a joint conven- tion of the two Lodges.
Meantime, on May 1, 1866, the Grand Lodge had been re-organized, and upon the adoption of the ritual, it was ordered that the entire matter be placed in the hands of the Grand Lodge, $30.00 appropriated for printing, and that, there and then, the Grand Lodge convene. This was consummated by the declaration of a recess of Franklin Lodge, the congregating of the Past Officers of both Lodges and the assumption of the chairs by the Grand Officers. Then, the ritual, as remembered by the fathers of the Order, was committed to the printer, and before the end of July, 1866, the one which, up to 1873, was in universal use, appeared in book form.
At the meeting on July 30, 1866, the minutes say: "All business was sus- pended for the purpose of allowing the Grand Lodge to initiate and organize Liberty Lodge No.6, K. of P ." The facts as to this appear under their proper head.
At the meeting of Franklin Lodge, August 27, 1866, the Grand Officers assumed the chairs, conferred the three degrees on several of the petitioners for a Dis- pensation to organize Webster Lodge No.7, and instituted that body. From that time forward, the permanency not only of Franklin Lodge N .2, but of the Order, was assured.
It is but just to say, that to the constancy, fidelity, zeal and unswerving loyalty of this Lodge, is attributable the fact that the Order of Knights of Pythias exists today.* * The author of this work has a complete copy, made by himself, of the minutes of Franklin Lodge No.2, from the day of Its institution, April 12, 1864, to October 1, 1866. It contains the story of the Order during the teething stage. No one can read through its minutes of the meetings in those early times without a feeling of admiration for the courage and faith of the Spartan band, that, through the days that were dark and drear, plodded on and on, heedless of all difficulties-confident of victory. And, let it be recorded, to his everlasting credit, that to all the roll-calls of that period, the minutes testify that EDWARD DUNN responded, "present." In this, the year of grace, 1903, he is still with us, the only Charter member left of those who laid broad and deep, the foundation upon which has been erected a fraternal structure, great in its accomplishments-unsurpassed in its success-unexcelled in its purpose.
COLUMBIA LODGE NO.3 Washington. Instituted May 19, 1864. Ceased Meeting, April, 1865
JOSEPH T. K. PLANT, then Grand Chancellor, instituted Columbia Lodge No. 3, at Temperance Hall, in the same room with Washington Lodge No.1. It was born on May 19, 1864, but, In less than a year, it faded and died, leaving behind it nothing by which to trace its origin, those who officered or composed it, or the cause of its untimely end. In the early annals of the Order in the District of Columbia, as handed down by the first Grand Scribe, Clarence M. Barton, only two facts regarding it appear-its birth and burial. None of its records are among the archives-mayhap it had none.
POTOMAC LODGE NO.4. Washington. Instituted May 31, 1864. Consolidated with Washington Lodge No.1, May 26, 1865.
Finding that to MATTHIAS LASANO, an old and respected citizen of the Dis- trict, was due the credit of organizing Potomac Lodge No.4, the author called on the aged brother, at his merchant-tailoring establishment in Washington, December 10, 1896, when he made a statement, subsequently reduced to writing, duly submitted, and approved by him. From this, the following extract is .made:-
"Late in the month of May, 1864, JOSEPH T. K. PLANT, Grand Chancellor of the Order, came to my store, corner of 9th and D Streets, and asked me to Interest myself and my companions in connection with the organization of a new Lodge of Knights of Pythias. It was agreed that It should be called "Potomac. Lodge, as it was to be located in my neigh- borhood at what was known as the 'Island,' now South Washington. "I accordingly: interested several I friends, and succeeded in securing a list of applicants, as follows: W. R. HURLEY, J. M. ORMES, JOHN GIBSON, T. R. STEARNES, CHARLES H. TORREY, R. V. HENRY, LEYI BUCH, D. P. ORMES, R. H. CHINN, W. R. BIGGS, HORACE HOLMES and RINALDO BROWN. All these gentlemen were taken over to a meeting of Washington Lodge No.1, at old Temperance Hall, and there on one of them was conferred the three degrees, while the remainder witnessed the ceremonies."
In the "sketch of the organization and history of the Knights of Pythias," prepared by Clarence M. Barton, and which forms the initial Journal of Proceed- ings of the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, the date of the organi- zation of this Lodge is given as June 2, 1864-this is an error. The original minutes of the Lodge, give the date as May 31, 1864. The Institution took place at Temperance Hall. Grand Chancellor Plant presided, and, after conferring the degrees on the petitioners, installed the following officers: C. H. TORREY. Venerable Patriarch; W. R. HURLEY, Worthy Chancellor; T. R. STEARNES, Vice Chancellor;. J. M. ORMES, Scribe.
Its subsequent meetings were held In "Island" Hall, on what was known as "The Island."
Continuing the statement made to the author by Brother Lasano, he said:-
"The meetings of Potomac Lodge continued for a short time to succeed, but it soon. be- came apparent that it would have to surrender or consolidate with some other Lodge, and, in May, 1865, It was agreed to join Washington No.1."
Brother Lasano then tells of the consolidation as already given In the state- ment regarding Washington Lodge No.1. It was formally completed on May 26, 1865. The Lodge minutes indicate that no meetings had been held after March 22,1865. While perusing the minutes of this Lodge, the author was especially struck with the following entry. It was made at a period when the fate of the Nation trembled in the balance. It at least evidenced that the members of Potomac Lodge were loyal to the Government. The minute is signed by "H. 1IOLMES, Scribe"-it reads:-
"Washington, July 4, 1864. "No meeting of the Lodge, on account of the absence of the brothers in defense of the City." * * * In view of his long and faithful service to the Order, the following short biography of Brother Losano is given. The facts as to his early life were given to the author by himself.
MATTHIAS LOSANO was born in the Island of Minorca, in the year 1823, living there till he grew to manhood. He had served a portion of an appren- ticeship as tailor, and in the year 1837, he shipped on board the United States Navy Schooner "Shark" as a tailor, and came to Norfolk, Virginia. He then drifted to Philadelphia, and went back to tailoring, serving his time out, and then sought employment in different places as a tailor, going to Boston, New Orleans, Cincinnati, Louisville, and other places. In 1848, he shipped as a tailor on board the United States Man-of-War "Constitution," then starting on a European cruise, and went with her all over the Mediterranean, remaining with her for three years, and through the influence of the officers he "was able to secure his discharge at Genoa. He went from there to Marseilles; then he visited his native land, Minorca, and, in 18511 returned to the United States locating in Washington, where he remained in the business of tailoring. After the demise of Washington Lodge No.1, to which he had been trans- ferred by the consolidation with it of Potomac No.4, he was, for a time, out of the Order. Later, he joined Mount Vernon No.5, there continuing until his death, which took place, August 25, 1898. He was a man of simple tastes and habits-Honest, honorable and confiding. During his recital to the author, of the happenings connected with the pioneer history of the Order this good old soul waxed eloquent, and gloried in the part he played in the Pythian drama in the early days.
MOUNT VERNON LODGE NO.5. Washington. Instituted April 16, 1866. In the minutes of Franklin Lodge No.2, under date of April 2, 18661 the following record appears:-
"Moved by Financial Scribe Hamilton that a committee of five be appointed to canvass the City for the purpose of organizing a new Lodge of Knights of Pythias. Committee :- Brothers Hamilton, Lawson, Cook, King, Schlief."
And out of this grew the organization of the Lodge which, above all others, was to be the co-laborer with Franklin No.2, in upholding the banner of Pythian Knighthood in "the brave days of old.”
Further, in the minutes of Franklin No.2, under date of April 91 1866, there appears the following: -
"Committee on new Lodge offered a report, that they had obtained fifteen names in favor of forming a new Lodge, a ad it was ordered that on this night two weeks, 23rd April, a new Lodge be formed by the Past Officers of Franklin Lodge."
But everything was in readiness sooner since the minutes of Franklin Lodge, under date of April 161 1866, show that on that evening, at the Odd Fellows Hall, at the Navy Yard, the Past Officers of No.2, conferred the three degrees upon the petitioners, installed the officers, and declared Mount Vernon Lodge No.51 duly organized.
From the original minutes* of Mount Vernon Lodge No.5, under date of April 16, 1866, it appears that the first officers elected on that evening we-re:- JOHN I. DOWNS, Venerable Patriarch; WM. L. CHILDS Worthy Chancellor; JOHN DAUGHTON, Vice Chancellor; JOHN J. GRIGGS Worthy Banker; RICHARD T. SEARS, Financial Scribe; GEORGE SCHULTZ Recording Scribe; WM. A. COOPER Guide; CHARLES GARNNER Inner Steward; JOHN BAUMAN, Outer Steward.
* The first and second minute books of this Lodge were in the keeping of the author for about two years.
And then the record says verbatim:-
"The Past Officers of Franklin Lodge No.2, acting as Deputy Grand Lodge, here installed the officers, and conducted them through the ceremonies of the three degrees of instructing them in the mysteries of the Order. After which the Lodge proceeded to business."
The following is a list of the applicants submitted on the night of institution: GEORGE LANGLY, THOMAS LYNCH, THOMAS E. JOHNSON, JOHN T. WHITE, ALBERT ANDERSON, THOMAS GOSNELL, SAMUEL C. HUNT, JOHN H. SIMMS, GEORGE R. DYER, JOHN M. MITCHELL, BERLY DAUGHTON, HENRY L. OLIVER.
For the second term, commencing with July 7, 1866, the following officers were elected and installed: R. T: JOHNSON, Worthy Chancellor; R. T. SEARS, Worthy Vice Chancellor; B. DAUGHTON, Worthy Financial Scribe; F. WOODS Worthy Guide; F. MEADES, Worthy Inner Steward; J. GRAY, Worthy Outer; Steward. ' ,
At the meeting held July 11, 1877, the following entry appears:-
"The Card of the Past Supreme Chancellor RATHBONE was presented, with fee of $5.50, and referred to Brothers E. C. Gill, J. S. Finch, and J.T. Moling."
and on July 18, 1877, he was elected to membership.
From that time forward, Mount Vernon Lodge No.5, working loyally in har- mony with Franklin Lodge No.2, became an equal factor with the latter in making permanent and secure the foundation upon which was reared the pres- ent superstructure. Throughout all the period which followed, this Lodge never faltered in its allegiance, but, during the critical period and days that tried men's souls, it held high the flag, stayed the hands of the Pythian authorities, and to it, equally with Franklin Lodge, is due the credit of having saved the Order in the days of the famous "0. B. N." controversy.
LIBERTY LODGE NO.6. Washington. Instituted July 30,1866. Golden Rule No.19 consolidated with No.6, July 1, 1874. Consolidated with Franklin No.2, March 13, 1878.
This Lodge was instituted in the Odd Fellows Hall, at the Navy Yard, July 30, 1866, by the Grand Officers of the District of Columbia, and the following were the first officers: WM. P. WESTWOOD, Venerable Patriarch; THOMAS E. PYLES, Worthy Chancellor; JOHN T. SMITH, Vice Chancellor; A. C. Hoops, Recording Scribe; JAMES MATHIESON, Financial Scribe; SAMUEL LANGLEY, Banker; ALONZO SHAW, Guide; WM. CISSELL, Inner Steward; W. HARDY, Outer Steward.
The degrees were conferred by the officers of Franklin Lodge No.2.
In addition to the officers, the degrees were also conferred on WM. EDLIN, JAMES SOPER, SAMUEL GORDON, ROBERT PATTERSON, F. W. MAHONEY, and JAMES GARDINER.
At the third meeting, the degrees were conferred on: THOMAS GOSS, MAT- THEW McNALLY, GEORGE CHILDS, JOHN W. WILLETT, JAMES H. SMITH, JOHN ROBINSON, GEORGE W. CHELSEDINE, STEVEN RANDLE, WILLIAM KEEFE, JOHN WHITE, EDWARD BLUETT, JOHN EVANS, STANLEY TAYLOR, WILLIAM T. MAHONEY, FRANK W. CROSS, THOMAS E. JACOBS, LEMUEL GATES, A. C. SMITH, SAMUEL ENTWIZLE, JOHN H. ROLLIN, JOHN WOOD, JOHN SMITH, JAMES E. SMITH.
This completed the original list of Charter members.
On July 1, 1874, Golden Rule Lodge No.19, was consolidated with this Lodge, carrying into it an added membership of 125.
It prospered for several years, but, early' in 1878, overtures were made to Franklin No.2, and, after satisfactory terms had been mutually adopted, they were consolidated on the evening of March 13, 1878, at McCauley's Hall, Cap- itol Hill.
* * * As by this time, the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia was thoroughly. established, reference only will be made to the instituting of. the remaining Lodges, as each, in succession, comes into notice in connection with the story of the Order in the District of Columbia.
On August 24, 1866, the Grand Lodge granted a charter to HARRY KRON- HEIMER, DAVID NACHMAN, I. L. and H. L. BLOUT, E. VOIGHT, D. L. DEMELMAN, C. W. OKEY, WOLF KAUFMANN, J. PEYSER and P. PEYSER, for the organization of Webster Lodge No.7, of Washington, and it was instituted August 27, 1866.
On June 17, 1867, a charter was granted to organize Friendship Lodge No.8 and it was instituted on June 25, 1867, at the Odd Fellows' Hall, Navy Yard' Washington, with the 'following officers: J. R. N. CURTIN, Past Chancellor; GEORGE H. KEPPLER, Worthy Chancellor; GEORGE W. SEWALL, Vice Chancellor; WILLIAM T. HALL, recording Scribe; "V. H. SIGNOR, Financial Scribe; J. B. SHEARER, Banker; LUCIUS B. GRIMES, Guide; JOSEPH T. DAVIS, Inner Steward; GEORGE W. BARKMAN, Outer Steward; who, with JAMES H. PRUETT, JOHN L. HARRIS, LEWIS T. WILBOURN, JAMES W. SAMPSON, GEORGE T. DYKES and JAMES E. DEMENT, constituted the Charter members. It then appears by the records of the Grand Lodge, page 594-596, 1885, that no meetings being then held and the membership having fallen to less than a quorum, the Charter of this Lodge was revoked on November 14,1884.
Then Charters were granted by the Grand Lodge and Lodges instituted as follows, all of them to meet at Washington, except Hermione Lodge No.12, which was instituted at Georgetown, District of Columbia:
Decatur Lodge No.9, instituted December 10, 1867; Syracusians Lodge No. 10, instituted February 2, 1868; Calanthe Lodge No.11, instituted March 30, 1868; Hermione Lodge No.12, instituted April 30, 1868; Damon Lodge No.13, instituted October 6, 1868. This last Lodge was consolidated with Syracusians Lodge No.10, March 4, 1874.
* * * Then came the advance of the first picket-line of the "Conclave" movement, which afterwards became known as the "0. B. N. Controversy." Hitherto, the authority to institute Lodges was conferred by the Grand Lodge in session, and, as a rule, the petition was first submitted to that body, and, if approved, a Charter granted. Then, the Grand Lodge would hold a special session, and institute it. But upon the advent of JOHN H. KING as Grand Chancellor, he adopted the plan, which has since universally prevailed, of passing on a peti- tion for anew Lodge, granting a Dispensation (now Warrant) , and reporting same to the Grand Lodge for its approval, and a Charter. This was the situa- tion late in 1868. About that time there had grown up a wide breach between the Founder, JUSTUS H. RATIIBONE and CLARENCE M. BARTON, the Grand Record ing Scribe of the District of Columbia, allowing to antagonisms, connected with the organizing of "Conclaves of S. P. K." This prompted Brother Rathbone to organize a Lodge, mainly composed of Conclave members, such new body to be known as "RATHBONE" Lodge No.14. Upon Grand Chancellor King request- ing Brother Barton to issue a Dispensation for this Lodge, it was prepared in manuscript, and contained a provision that the same could only be revoked by the issuance of a Charter. It authorized the establishment of " Lodge No. -." In this form, Grand Chancellor King, handed it to Brother Rathbone, and advised that, owing to the feeling that existed, the new Lodge should not be called "Rathbone." On December 16, 1868, the petitioners met in Knights of Pythias Hall, Washington, organized, and, by unanimous vote, chose the name of "Rathbone Lodge No.14." On the same evening, the follow- iilg officers were elected: DR. A. W. MILLER, Worthy Chancellor; B. S. PIKE, Vice Chancellor; GEORGE D. SCOTT, Recording Scribe; DR. GEORGE SYLVESTER, Financial Scribe; JOHN A. FOOS, 'Banker; E. L. WRIGHT, Guide; HENRY FRIES, Inner Steward; I. M. MCGREW, Outer Steward.
This Lodge was in a sea of trouble from the start, and upon the Grand Chan- cellor reporting, December 22, 1868, a Charter was refused and the Dispensa- tion revoked. This was the signal for the formation of rebel Lodges in the District of Columbia, though it was not until later that they came out boldly. From this on, the Lodge only met occasionally and, after May, 1869, held no Meetings until December 18. 1869. After that. there appeared to be increased interest, initiation of candidates and greater success. John H. King had become the ruling spirit.
On March 10, 1870, the crisis in its existence began. Its members were evi- dently determined to cut loose from the parent Order, and the following appears. on the minutes of that date:-
"The Recording Scribe gave notice that at the next meeting, he would otIer a resolution to change the name and number of the Lodge and declare it to be the 'Original Order of the Knights of Pythias.' " .
At the meeting held in Esputa's Hall, 8th Street, S. E., Washington, March 17th, 1870, the following resolution was adopted, and practically tells the his- tory of the difficulty in regard to the organization of this Lodge:
"WHEREAS.. on the 15th day of December, 1868, a Dispensation was granted by JOHN H. KING then the Grand Chancellor of the Order of Knights of Pythias, in the District of Columbia, to applicants for a new Lodge, No.14. within his jurisdiction, and "WHEREAS said Dispensation could only be revoked by a duly granted Charter by the Grand Lodge, or by said Lodge No.14, having been found guilty after charges had been preferred and regularly investigated and trIed in manner prescribed by the Constitution. "AND WHEREAS, the Grand Lodge did on the 22nd day of December, 1868, at a special meeting of that body, refuse to acknowledge the act of Grand Chancellor, and undertook to revoke said act and did demand from said Rathbone Lodge their Dispensation and work of the Order, without preferring any charges Or assigning reasons therefor and have up to this time refused Rathbone Lodge No.14, representation in the Grand Lodge, although said Lodge has made regular and due returns to the Grand Lodge in strict accordance with the Constitution and the Laws of the Order. " AND WHEREAS. Rathbone Lodge has frequently asked to be furnished with the reasons (or charges if any), for the conduct of the Grand Lodge and have for fifteen (15) months failed to elicit from the Grand Lodge, or any member thereof, the reason for the unjust and unconstitutional conduct of said Grand Lodge. "THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED. that in justice to Rathbone Lodge No.14, Knights of Pythias, and justice to each member thereof, demands that final action be taken, in order that the principles of Friendship may be extended to all who desire to preserve the purity and honor of the Order and rescue the Constitution and Seal of the Order from infamy and disgrace. . BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED. that Rathbone Lodge No.14, Knights of rythias, assume the name of ‘Rescue Lodge No.1, Original Order of Knights of Pythias,' and most cordially invite all Knights of Pythias who desire to preserve the honor and purity of our beloved Order, to unite with Rescue Lodge No.1. "AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED. That the action of late 'Rathbone Lodge No.14, Original Order of Knights of Pythias,' in no manner reflects upon the name or character of the Founder of the Order and Past Supreme Chancellor J. H. RATHBONE.. and we distintly and positively disclaim all intentions of wounding' his self respect or to, in any other manner, injure him or his standing in the Order. JOHN H. KING. P. P. LITTLE. A. W. MILLER. GEORGE L. LAURENCE. WIILLIAM H. COE. GEORGE D. FRYE. GEORGE D. DICE."
This was unanimously adopted by a rising vote.
The minutes of the next meeting, March 24th, 1870; are headed with the name "Rescue Lodge No.1, 0. 0., K. of P.," and that name is" carried along until, October 13, 1870, they changed the name to "Anacostia Lodge No.16." This meeting was held in Esputa's Hall, and the record of it goes to show that only a few days previous, there had been formed an "Anti-O. B. N." Grand Lodge, and that this Lodge was to be 'one of its constituents.
As this was the first document that was issued by the Anti-O. B. N. Grand Lodge-there being no printed record of its organization, or subsequent pro- ceedings-it is given here, as follows:-
"To ANACOSTIA LODGE.. No. 16, K. of P. : "Brothers: It is a pleasant duty to notify you that the Grand Lodge of this jurisdiction at its last session (September 30, 1870), adopted the report of the 'Committee on Laws and Supervision' made in response to your application to this Grand Body for a Charter, and said report concludes as follows: 'Your Committee after mature deliberation have therefore concluded to recommend that a Charter be granted to the applicants under the name of ANACOSTIA Lodge on the same conditions that a Charter is granted anew Lodge, except that In the case of A. W. Miller, who was legally installed as the W. C. of Rath- bone Lodge at its organization be allowed the honors of Past Chancellor, and that the number of said Lodge be sixteen (16). "Congratulating you Brothers of Anacostia Lodge on the pleasant termination. of your isolated condition, commending you for the patience and firmness you have shown under oppression and wrong, and in the face of justice and right withheld from you on. personal grounds. And with many thanks for the honorable and knightly manner in which you have acted towards myself and other officers of the Grand Lodge as well as for the con- fidence you have shown in that body, and with my best wishes that your success in the future -may exceed your most sanguine expectations, I have the honor to subscribe myself, "Very truly yours, in F. C. & B., (Seal.) "HENRY STEWART, G. R. & C. S."
Further, it appears by the minutes of this Lodge, October 13, 1870, that the officers of the Anti-O. B. N. Grand Lodge, who visited at that time, were as follows: JOHN W. THOMPSON, Venerable Grand Patriarch; A. T. CAVIS, Grand Chancellor ALEXANDER CAMPBELL, Vice Grand Chancellor; JOHN M. HINKLE. Grand Banker; HENRY STEWART, Grand Recording and Corresponding Scribe; Louis S. L.ABILLE, Grand Guide; ALONZO D. SHAW, Grand Inner Steward; G. J. L. FOXWELL, Grand Outer Steward.
This list of Grand Officers of the " Anti-O. B. N " Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia is the last that was elected. It contains the names of some breth- ren who were afterwards deservedly prominent In the Order. The author went over these minutes with Past Supreme Representative G. J. L. FOXWELL (since deceased) , in December, 1896, and that good brother verified the list, told of .many happenings of that period, and of the fortunate reconciliation that fol- lowed.
In the communications which appear in the minutes as coming from the Anti-O. B. N. Grand Officers, the seal of the protesting Grand Lodge appears, . though somewhat Indistinct. There are two inscriptions around the seal, one Inside the other. The first contains the following words: "Incorporated under the general Act of Congress, July 30, 1870." The inner one reads, "Grand Lodge K. of P., D. of a." In the center of the seal is a prancing steed on which a knight in armor is mounted.
This Lodge went along for quite a considerable period, and an item in its record dated July 1, 1871, page 195, indicates that even at that time, there were still two Grand Lodges.
Meantime, a few months after the organization of Rathbone Lodge No.14, the Supreme Lodge had promulgated the famous "0. B. N." Following quickly upon the attempt to enforce the new and added obligation came the secession of quite a number of members from each of the loyal Lodges in the District of Columbia, and the organization of what was known as the "Anti-O. B. N." Lodges, so that the order then had a two-fold organization, composed of an "0. B. N." and an "Anti-O. B. N." Grand Lodge, each with constituent Lodges bearing the same names and numbers. Added to this, as a sort of free lance, there was Rathbone Lodge No.14, afterwards, "Rescue No. -1," which, later, was taken into the Anti-O. B. N. Grand Lodge, as Anacostia No.16.
This was the situation when the Supreme Lodge met at Philadelphia, April 18, 1871, and repealed the "0. B. N ." which had proved so obnoxious and led to such disastrous results. Fortunately, there was at this time at its head, in the District of Columbia, truly the right man in the right place. Broad In grasp, earnest of purpose, honest in intention, and sincerely desirous for the best interests. of the Order, RICHARD GOODHART (may his tribe increase), then Grand Chancellor, extended to all alike an invitation to join hands, forget the differences of the past and settle down as though they had never parted. In- stead of making it difficult for the seceders to return to the fold, he opened wide the door and bade them welcome. From a knowledge of the happenings at that time, a careful study of the situation, and the testimony of many who participated on both sides of the controversy in the District of Columbia, the author can testify that to the sound judgment, skilful management, open hand and generous impulses of Brother GOODHART at this critical period in its history, the order in the District of Columbia, and possibly .at large, owes it existence to-day with unbroken ranks. He performed hls duties fearlessly, reasonably and well, and deserves a prominent place in Pythian annals. Upon the repeal of the "0. B. N.," in 1871, Grand Chancellor GOODHART at once went to work with a view not only to saving the membership that had formed "Anti-O. B. N." Lodges but also the new membership they had acquired. The first difficulty-at least many thought-was the fact that the " Anti-O. B. N ." Lodges bore the same names and numbers as the loyal Lodges. In other words, the original Lodges still remained. but there were duplicates bearing the same names. Accordingly, Brother GOODHART solved the difficulty by deciding that the loyal Lodges should continue to stand on the roster as originally chartered. There were Franklin No.2, Mount Vernon No.5, liberty No.6, Friendship No.8. Decatur No.9. Syracusians No.10, Calanthe No.11, Hermione No.12 and Damon No.13, and, added to these were Excelsior No.14, which had been in. stitl!ted September 29, 1869. and Germania No.15, Instituted November 29, 1869; both located in Washington. the latter to work in German. .
In compliance with the plan already stated as having been carried out by Grand Chancellor GOODHART, the following is the disposition made of the Anti-
- B. N. Lodges:
The seceders from Webster No.7, were chartered as Reliance No. 16f which was instituted in Washington, July 13, 1871. On September 20. 1883, it con- solidated with Webster No.7.
Those who. seceded from Excelsior No.14, were chartered as Equal No.. 17, which was Instituted July 11, 1871.
Those who went out from Germania No.15, were chartered as Occasia No. 18, which was instituted July 19, 1871. Afterwards, this Lodge consolidated with Germania No.15. November 17, 1896.
Those who left the ranks of Liberty No.6, were granted a Charter as Golden Rule No.19 which was instituted at Esputa's Hall, Navy Yard, August 4, 1871. On July 1. 1874, this Lodge was consolidated with liberty No.6.
On July 25, 1871. a Charter was granted to the members of the Lodge formerly known by the three names of Rathbone No.. 14, Rescue No.1, and Anacostia No.16, under the name and number of Anacostia No.20 and it was instituted in Esputa's Hall, July 29, 1871. On January 16, 1884, Anacostia No.20 consoli- dated with Union No.22.
The seceders from Damon No.13, were chartered as Harmony No.21, and it was instituted at Island Hall, August 3, 1871.
On July 25, 1871, the "Anti-O. B. N." members, from Mount Vernon No.5 and Syracusians No.10, were granted a Charter as Union No.22, which was insti- tuted August 11, 1871.
Thus ended all questions with reference to this difficulty and from that time forward, there has been nothing but harmony, progress and contentment in the Order in the District of Columbia.
In view of the special relation which the Domain of the District of Columbia bears to the rest of the Order, the remainder of the Lodge roster is given here, bringing it up to July, 1903.
Anacostia No.23, was organized at Washington. August 15, 1889, and was consolidated with Myrtle No.25, January 7, 1896.
Capitol No.24, was instituted, December 5, 1889. There were seventy-three applicants; and for .the time being, the Lodge met in Bunch's Hall, on 8th Street. N. W., Washington.
On April 10, 1894, Myrtle No.25, was instituted at Washington.
On February 17, 1897, Columbia No.26, was instituted at Washington.
On October 23, 1897, Superior No.27 , was instituted at Washington.
Also. on December 22, 1897, Amaranth No.28, was instituted in Washington. Justus H. Rathbone No.29, was instituted on March 11, 1898. at Washington.
On March 8, 1900, Century No.30, was instituted at Washington.