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Material Taken From:FREEMASONRY AND ITS PROGRESS
HISTORY OF ATLANTA LODGE No. 59, F. & A. M.
After having worked under a Dispensation issued April 13th, 1847, Atlanta Lodge No. 59 received a charter from the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Georgia on October 26th, 1847, and, on December 31st, 1847, held its first election and installation of officers.
The lodge rooms were on the upper floor of a two-story wooden building which stood on the corner of Lloyd (now Central Avenue) and Alabama Street, at south angle. The ground floor of this building was occupied by a grocery store of which Paul McSheffery was the proprietor.
Just seventv-seven years, over three quarters of a century ago, in this building, which for many years was known as Masonic Hall, the first lodge of F. & A. M. was constituted.
The accompanying photograph gives some idea of the appearance of Masonic Hall, which at that time was considered one of the most imposing buildings in the Citv of Atlanta.
CHARTER MEMBERS OF ATLANTA LODGE No. 59.
The following is a list of the officers andmembers of Atlanta Lodge No. 59, at the time its charter was issued:
Leonard Christopher Simpson, W. M.; Wyllus Buell, S. W.; Robert W. Clark, J. W.; James Lloyd, Treas.; H. Wells, Secretary; B. H. Thurman, S. D.; John W. Weaver, J. D.; Ruben Haynes, Tyler;
eleven M. M., as follows: Joel Kilsey, J. H. Meade, J. H. Gellen, Wm. Rushton, M. McDonald, Wm. Printup, C. P. S. Fisher, Geo. H. Smith, Wm. Kidd, Chas. H. Wesson and Daniel Holman; one F. C., J. W. Evans, and one E. A., A. W. Wheat.
The first report to Grand Lodge was made in October, 1847, and shows the following:
Membership Atlanta Lodge No. 59 F. & A. M. – 19 M. M., 1. F. C., and 1. E. A. initiated 10, passed 9, raised 7, admitted 3. Dues paid Grand Lodge-$10.00.
ATLANTA LODGE IN 1924
According, to returns made to the, Grand Lodge Aug. 31st, 1924, the membership of Atlanta Lodge No. 59 totaled “ 625.
The following are the officers for 1924:
C. E. Jarvis, Jr. --------- W. M. M. B. Parsons ---------- S. W. J. W. Renshaw --------- J. W. Plennie Minor ---------- Treasurer Joshua F. Tye ---------- Sectv. G. H. Jordon ------------ S. D. C. L. Johnson ----------- J. D. James Rawlinson ------ S. S. L. B. Clarke ------------ J. S. P. G. Young ------------ Tiler W. H. Tillman --------- Chaplain P. M. Hubbard --------- Organist
THE FOUNDERS AND SUPPORTERS OF ATLANTA LODGE, No. 59.
Leonard Christopher Simpson was the first Worshipful Master of Atlanta Lodge No. 59. He is described in the History of Atlanta as the citv’s first resident lawyer, and a man of fine personal appearance and unusual professional abilitv. It is of him we speak when referring to the founder of Freemasonry in Atlanta, then in DeKalb County, Georgia.
The entire membership of the fraternity, from the youngest E. A. in the N. E. C. of the Lodge to the W. M. in the East, may point with laudable pride to the magnificent record made by the first Worshipful Master of Atlanta Lodge No. 59.
Brother Simpson was a man loved and admired by all who knew him during his long and useful life. He was the son of John Simpson, an early settler and carriage maker of Decatur, Georgia, and received most of his education at Decatur, Alabama.
After completing his course of study, Brother Simpson embarked upon his life's journey, determined to make his mark in the world. His motto was "Honesty and fair dealing with all mankind." He began studying law at the age of 18 under Hon. William Ezzard, a celebrated jurist.
In 1845, he moved to Atlanta and soon gained the confidence and respect of all with whom he came in contact. He was one of the first members of the City Council of Atlanta, serving as such in 1848, 1852 and 1853, and very capably handled the duties of City Attorney for a considerable length of time.
Brother Simpson was recognized as one of the brightest Masons of his day, and his services were always in demand. A true man and Mason, he was respected and held in highest esteem by all who knew him. He was considered a sincere friend of the people, careless only of his own interests; but ever solicitous of the welfare of the brethren. Although he never succeeded in accumulating a fortune, he lived the life of an honest man and good citizen, and died in the sanctity of true Masonry.
He established a wonderful record of service, especially in his Masonic career. During 1847, 1848, 1850, 1851 and 1852, he very capably filled the station of Worshipful Master of Atlanta Lodge No. 59. He was Senior Warden of Pythagorus Lodge No. 4 of Decatur, and in 1848 was appointed Junior Grand Deacon of the Grand Lodge of Georgia. Having been promoted by regular steps and in regular order, in 1858, he was elected Deputy Grand Master, and performed the duties of this exalted station to the satisfaction of all concerned.
HONOR TO WHOM HONOR IS DUE
Our distinguished Brother Leonard C. Simpson established such an enviable record that it hardly seems possible to pay sufficient tribute to his memory.
A memorial published by Brother Wm. H. Terrell, Past Master of Atlanta Lodge No. 59, on November 14, 1912, brings out the fact that while Junior Grand Warden of the Grand Lodge of Georgia, Brother Simpson introduced a resolution at the session of the Grand Lodge in 1854, calling for a revision of the Constitution of the Grand Lodge.
Brother Simpson was appointed chairman of a committee; and in conjunction with Senior Grand Warden W. S. Rockwell, who afterwards became Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Georgia, was authorized to prepare an Ahiman Rezon which should contain all the lectures and other esoteric work of both the Grand and Subordinate Lodges of Georgia.
In 1856 the report of this committee was presented and unanimously adopted, and in 1858 was published in book form by the McCoy Publishing Company of New York.
The printing was authorized by Grand Master W. S. Rockwell, whose name appears on the title page as author and compiler. However, it is the opinion of Brother Wm. H. Terrell and several other well-informed brethren, that while Grand Master W. S. Rockwell was entitled to mention on the title page, the honor of being author and compiler rightfully belongs to Brother Leonard C. Simpson, as chairman of the committee appointed for this work, was necessarily responsible to the Grand Lodge for its completion.
Therefore, it appears that during all these years, Brother Simpson has not been given the credit to which he is entitled for his wonderful work in with the compilation of our present Constitution, Lectures, Ceremonies of Installation, Funeral and Dedication Services, Prayers, Order of Public Processions, etc., etc.
MONUMENT ERECTED TO MEMORY OF BRO. L. C. SIMPSON.
Due to the thoughtfulness and timely suggestion of Brother Wm. H. Terrell, the following resolution to erect a suitable monument at the grave of Brother Leonard Christopher Simpson was offered in Atlanta Lodge, No. 59, and unanimously adopted on November 14, 1912:
"Brethren, this Mason was more than a man of ordinary ability. He was extraordinarily zealous in the service of the Order. His work still lives and guides us. Every day of our Masonic lives we have received and will continue to receive, for years to come, the benefits of his labor.”
"Is it becoming in us to withhold praise for his work and a token, however small, of our appreciation of his services? I think not.
"Therefore, I move that the Lodge expend the sum of one hundred dollars for the purchase of a marble memorial, which should be suitably inscribed and placed at the head of the grave of our deceased brother, Leonard C. Simpson."
Sufficient funds were appropriated for the purchase of a marble slab six feet high and ten inches thick. This was placed at the head of Brother Simpson's grave, near the Hunter Street gate of Oakland Cemetery, Atlanta, Georgia, with the following inscription engraved thereon:
LEONARD C. SIMPSON Born Sept. 15th, 1821. Died Sept. 16th, 1860.
First W. M. Atlanta Lodge, 1847. Deputy Grand Master, 1858. Member First Atlanta City Council, 1848.
City Attorney Atlanta Erected by Atlanta Lodge No. 59, F. & A. M., 1918. Alvin L. Richards, W. M.
“What we do for the dead or to the living for their sakes is Charity, the noblest portion of humanity.
The following facts, gathered in part, from an historical sketch by Brother Wm. H. Terrell, Past Master of Atlanta Lodge, No. 59, should be of interest to the Craft:
An inspection of the roll of Atlanta Lodge, No. 59, shows that from the time of its constitution, its members have been leaders in both the official and business life of Atlanta. Many of the members, both living and dead, have become eminent in the Craft.
Brother L. C. Simpson was the first Worshipful Master of the lodge, and served as such in 1847, 1848, 1850, 1851, 1852 and 1855€” - 6 years. In 1860 he served as Deputy Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Georgia.
He was chairman of committee that prepared, and doubtless wrote the manual of the Lodge, called Aikens, which was revised by the Grand Lodge in 1916.
Past Master Thomas Whity Chandler became the father of the Ancietit and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry in connection with Past Master General George T. (Tigel) Anderson, Calvin Fay and William H. Tuller who afterwards became first Master of Georgia Lodge No. 96, and served as such during 1869, 1870, 1871, 1872, 1873 and was Eminent Commander of Coeur de Lion Commandery in 1870, 1871, 1872 and 1873. Also was Grand Commander of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templars of Georgia in 1873. There were several other faithful workers who for many years aided in keeping the fires burning on the altar when it seemed they must become extinguished.
Brother Chandler attained the 33rd Degree and honorary membership in the Supreme Council of the A. & A. S. Rite of Freemasonry, for the Southern Jurisdiction of the United States.
He was also Grand Commander of the Grand Commandery of Knights Templars of the State of Georgia and one of the highest officials of the General Encampment of Knights Templars of the United States.
Many eminent ministers of the gospel are included in the membership of Atlanta Lodge 59; notably, Rev. John Heidt and Rev. I. S. Hopkins, the famous Methodist Divine and first president of the Georgia State School of Tecnology. Also the Rev. Lewis Lawshe, also a noted Methodist Divine, was worshipful Master of Atlanta Lodge for seven years, from 1857 to 1865.
Among those noted in the business and professional world may be found the names of S. B. Hoytt, C. H. Strong, A. W. Hammond, General L. J. Cartrell, General John B. Gordon, E. P. Howell, John Silvy, C. W. Hunnicutt, J. W. Rucker, J. H. Hightower, T. W. Connolly, Robt. M. Maddox, Capt. James English, Dr. Leander Carpenter, Dr. L. P. Stephens and the Hon. James L. Mason. Brother W. D. Luckie became Worshipful Master of Georgia Lodge No. 96 and served as such in 1876, 1877 and 1878. It was for him that W. D. Luckie Lodge No. 89 was named. Brother Luckie also served as Eminent Commander of Coeur de Lion Commandery for six years: 1874, 1875, 1876, 1877, 1878 and 1880. Dr. L. D. Carpenter served Atlanta Lodge as Worshipful Master in 1892 and was Excellent High Priest, Mount Zion Chapter, and Eminent Commander Coeur de Lion Commandery. Dr. L. P. Stephens was also Worshipful Master in 1893 and was Excellent High Priest Mt. Zion Chapter, R. A. Masons and Eminent Corninander Coeur de Lion Commandery and Grand Commander of the Grand Cornmandery of K. T. of Georgia. The Hon. Jas. L. Mason, our City Attorney, presided in the east in 1894 and has become one of our greatest Masons, capably filling the east in all the bodies, and is one of our 33 degree Hon. Scottish Rite Masons of Atlanta. To this roll of honor we deem it well and appropriate to add the name of Dr. Daniel Cornelius O'Keefe, the founder of Atlanta's public schools. The following brief sketch of the life of this noble man, Mason and Citizen, should be of special interest:
DR. DANIEL CORNELIUS O'KEEFE: THE FOUNDER OF ATLANTA'S PUBLIC SCHOOLS.
Dr. O'Keefe was born in Lemerick, Ireland, and at the age of 21, while a student at Mercer University, was converted to the Protestant faith and immersed in the Baptist church. Brother O'Keefe was recognized as a fine classical scholar and writer for medical journals. During the Civil War, he served as Surgeon with the rank of Major. On September 24th, 1869, while serving the city as alderman, Brother O'Keefe introduced a resolution in Council appointing the Mayor and others a committee to investigate and report on the subject of public schools for the city of Atlanta.
The resolution was adopted and on November the 26th, 1869, the City Council passed an ordinance providing for the establishment of a public school system as recommended by the committee.
Dr. O'Keefe was the author of this ordinance which meant the establishment of public schools in the city of Atlanta, and he labored unceasingly for the noble cause, which, unfortunately, was very strenuously opposed. However, he finally obtained the consent of the public to proceed with this noble work, and for his intelligent and perseverant efforts, will always be known as "The founder of the Public Schools of Atlanta." He died in August, 1871, and was buried with full Masonic honors, by Atlanta Lodge No. 59, Worshipful Brother A. C. Ladd officiating. Unfortunately death overtook our noble Brother just one year prior to the opening of the public schools. Therefore be had all the difficulties of the pioneer, but none of the honors contingent upon success. The City of Atlanta should pay due honor and respect to the memory of Dr. O'Keefe by having his portrait conspicuously placed in City Hall and every public school building. It is pleasing to note that the city has had the new Boy's Junior High School named "O'Keefe Junior Hi-h School." Also his name and services in the Confederate Army will be rewarded on a bronze tablet in the Memorial Hall of Stone Mountain Memorial.
BIOGRAPHIES OF SOME OF ATLANTA LODGES OLDEST PAST MASTERS
Worshipful Brother Lewis Lawshe (W.M. seven years)
Brother Lawshe was one of Atlanta Lodge’s most valuable and noted Masters.
Brother Lawshe was an eminent Methodist minister. He was known as Atlanta Lodges war Master, as his administration included Our Civil War period. He filled the east in 1857, 1858. 1861, 1862, 1863, 1864 and 1865. He was one of Atlanta most loyal members and supporters and assisted in keeping the fires burning on the altar of Masonry even during the great conflict. We also see from the records that Brother Lawshe was Excellent High Priest of Mount Zion Chapter Royal Arch Masons, and served served Mt. Zion as High Priest in 1855, 1860 and 1863. Brother Lawshe was born at Lewisburg,, Pa., came here before our Civil War. He was a. local preacher and entered the ranks of the Confederate Army as Chaplain over the various organizations of the Army. He was the first Superintendent of the First Sunday school organized in Atlanta which met in a little wooden church where the Candler building now stands. He died in 1868 at the age of 51 from relapse from case of small pox and was buried with Masonic honors by Atlanta Lodge, his Mother Lodge. His portrait now adorns the walls of the First Methodist Church of Atlanta of which he was a devoted member. Brother Robert Lawshe, gate keeper Southern Ry. Co., this city is his son.
GENERAL GEORGE T. (TIGE) ANDERSON (W. M 1870-71)
General G. T. Anderson, better known, especially among the old Confederate War Veterans, as General "Tige" Anderson.
His splendid war record made him famous. Brother Anderson was one of Atlanta Lodge's best Masters. He served in the east in 1870 and 1871. A brief sketch of the record of this great man and Mason will be appreciated by every one who may remember the hardships of our Civil War and who participated in the struggle.
General Anderson was a native Georgian. He entered and participated in the Mexican war and served as Captain. His good record finally led to a position in the regular Army. After several years service he resigned, taking up the duties of civil life until 1861; when the Eleventh Georgia Regiment was organized in 1861 he was elected its Colonel and went with the regiment to Virginia. During the seven days’ battle he was in command of a Brigade consisting of the First Regulars, the Eighth, Ninth and Eleventh Georgia. His brigade was in the battles of Second Manassas, this name (Manassas,) given by the Confederates, also referred to by historians as the Battle of Bull Run and the struggle of Sharpsburg. On account of gallantry and skill displayed he was, on November the 1st, 1862 promoted Brigadier-general. He was in the thick of the battles of Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville (at this latter point the famous Stonewall Jackson was fatally wounded) and the struggle of "Round Top" at Gettysburg on July 2nd, 1863, when he was wounded. After recovering he marched with his brigade to Knoxville and Chattanooga.
He distinguished himself at the battle of the Wilderness, at Spotsylvania, Cold Harbor, and throughout the weary struggle around Richmond. After the war General Anderson returned to Georgia and became freight agent for the Georgia Railroad at Atlanta. Later in 1880 he was appointed Chief of Police of the city of Atlanta, and applying to the force military discipline, brought it up to a high standard of efficiency. When he retired from this position he removed to Anniston, Ala., where he held position as Chief of Police and was later made Tax Collector of the county, which position he was holding at the time of his death.
Thus ended the earthly career of one of the noblest men and Masons of Georgia. His body was gently consigned to mother earth which first gave it birth with Masonic honors.
W. E. PARKHURST (W. M. 1872-1874 to 1877-1880-1884-1885)
Worshipful Brother Parkhurst was Master of Atlanta Lodge 59, for eight years: 1872-1874, 1875, 1876, 1877, 1880-1884 and 1885. Brother Parkhurst was Secretary of Atlanta Masonic Temple Co. and one of its directors at time of his death. Atlanta Lodge and Masonry in general sustained a great loss in the death of this noble brother.
Dr. Parkhurst was the father of the wife of Brother DeLos Hill, Past Master Piedmont Lodge, 447.
The following brief sketch of his services and loyalty to his country is worthy of space here.
Dr. Parkhurst died February 28th, 1901, at 160 Richardson Street. He was 62 years old and one of the oldest residents of Atlanta, having resided here for nearly forty years. He was born at Ware, Mass., and came south before the War between the States. When the call for troops came he entered the confederate service as Lieutenant in the Fifth (5th) Georgia Cavalry which belonged to General Joseph Wheeler's brigade, and served with distinction through the campaigns of that famous organization. Brother Parkhurst, one of the oldest members of the Central Presbyterian Church, was a deacon in that church for thirty years. After that service he was elected a ruling elder.
He was among those who rendered valiant service to his country, was loyal to his Masonic Vows which made him a good citizen.
Funeral was from Central Presbyterian church, with an escort from Wheeler's Cavalry. He was buried with full Masonic honors.
A. J. SHROPSHIRE: (W. M. 1889-1890)
54 Years a Mason
Brother Shropshire is another of Atlanta Lodge's most-worthy living Past Masters. We see from records that Brother Shropshire served Atlanta Lodge as Master for two years: 1889 and 1890. He moved from Coweta County where he was born in 1845 on May the 8th, moved to Atlanta September lst, 1867. Brother Shropshire was initiated September 1870, passed October 1, 1870, raised October, 1870.
He was made a Mason in hall over John Ryan's store on Whitehall Street, where Davison & Paxton's store now stands. This was 54 years ago. Brother Shropshire is recognized as the oldest living Past Master in Atlanta and Fulton County. Now 79 years old and 54 years a Mason.
Brother Shropshire, it must be remembered, fought in the Confederate Army and was in the thick of the battle of Atlanta.
A brave soldier, a true man and Mason, loyal to his country and to his Masonic Vows. He will soon drop the working tools of life with the fond hope of a blissful immortality beyond this vale of shadows
Dr. Leander D Carpenter (W. M. 1891-1892)
Dr. Carpenter was another of Atlanta Lodge's Most Worthy, loyal and true rnemhers. The records show that Brother Carpenter served as Worshipful Master of Atlanta Lodge 59, in 1891-1892.
Brother Carpenter was also High Priest of Mount Zion Chapter No. 16 in the year 1892, Eminent Commander Coeur de Lion Commandery No. 4 in 1892. Illustrious Master Jason Burr Council, Royal and Select Masters. Brother Carpenter was born June 15th, 1831, and died August 30th, 1911, hence he was 80 years old at his death.
He was initiated in Houston Lodge No. 35, May 22nd, 1865, passed June 20th, 1865, raised August 15th, 1865.
A Mason 46 years. Moved to Atlanta and became member Atlanta Lodge March 11th, 1869. Member of Yaarab Temple A. A. 0. Nobles Mystic Shrine. It is interesting to note that Brother Carpenter was the first president of the Masonic Board of Relief of Atlanta and remained same until time of his death, 25 years.
Few Masons there be that were more loyal and devoted to the order than Brother Carpenter. He rendered valuable service and was held in the highest esteem among his brethren.
HON. JAS. L. MASON (W. M. 1894)
Worshipful Jas. L. Mason, we see, served Atlanta Lodge as Worshipful Master in 1894, and filled the east when the Lodge met at the old State Capitol and which was burned December, 1894, many of the records of Atlanta and other Lodges being burned.
Brother Jim, as he is better known among the craft, stands out as one of Atlanta Lodge's most loyal and true supporters. Although he has made his way up through the higher bodies and filled stations the highest, he still remained with his mother Lodge, No. 59.
Brother Mason was Excellent High Priest of Mount Zion Chapter in 1893, Eminent Commander of Coeur de Lion Commandery, 1894. Also Brother Mason is one of the 33' Scottish Rite Masons of Atlanta. His work and services, particularly in the higher bodies, are highly appreciated to the extent that we might well say that he has passed the point of an indispensable to that of a necessity.
The craft cannot well do without Brother Jim. So Brother Mason is one of Atlanta Lodge's living Past Masters whom she wishes to remember, praise, and honor while he lives.
“You may neglect, you may forget to place flowers upon my grave if you will, but I do ask for a little bud while I live.”
FREEMASONRY AND ITS PROGRESS
In Atlanta and Fulton County, Georgia, both York and Scottish Rites, with brief history of the Grand Lodge of Georgia, F. & A. M., 1786-1934 and early Masonic history of Georgia
--A NEW BICENTENNIAL EDITION-1934--
OFFICERS OF ATLANTA LODGE, No. 59, F. & A. M., FOR 1935 ELECTED AND INSTALLED DECEMBER 13. 1934, AT 88th ANNUAL COMMUNICATION
Arthur B. Foster, Senior Warden; C. Manley Brown, Worshipful Master; Barney C. Bloodworth, Junior Warden. Â Second row: Robert W. Standridge, Secretary; N. Walton Warren, Senior Deacon; Ellis F. McClelland, Junior Deacon; Cicero B. Falls, Senior Steward; Stephen C. Nash, Junior Steward; James A. Laney, Tiler; Dr. Will E. Carnes, Chaplain.
Membership and Lodges of Fulton County
According to the report of the Grand Secretary as of (late August 31, 1934) there were at that time 31 regularly constituted and chartered Masonic Lodges in Fulton County. In that report the total number on the combined rolls of these Lodges was placed at 8,959 members. Atlanta gains four new lodges since 1925 as follows: Cascade, No. 94, 133 members; LeRoy Duncan, No. 262, 80 members; Daylite, No. 125, 64 members; Morningside, No. 295, 179 members. Total number of lodges in Atlanta in 1934: 25 with 8,134 members.
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Membership and Lodges in the State of Gcorgia
The report of the Grand Secretary as of date August 31, 1934, gave the total of 544 Masonic Lodges in the Grand Jurisdiction of Georgia, with a total membership of 41,831. According to the report of August 31, 1925, there were at that time 683 Lodges with a total membership of 70,267. Note page 249.
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ATLANTA LODGE'S LAST AND YOUNGEST WORSHIPFUL MASTER 1924
We here, with much pleasure, present Worshipful Brother Charles Edward Jarvis, Jr., Worshipful Master of Atlanta Lodge, No. 59, who is better pleased when you address him as Brother Ed.
A brief biographical sketch of Brother Jarvis will be in order. Born in Atlanta, Georgia,on the 26th day of November, 1887 and now 37 years of age.
Brother Jarvis is what is usually styled, a self-made man, starting out in the business world as news boy, distributing morning papers for the Atlanta Constitution from the age of twelve years and continued in the employment of the Constitution in different departments until he reached the age of maturity, twenty-one. He attended the Atlanta public schools and also private schools and spent three years at Georgia Tech, supporting himself entirely, and was a liberal supporter of his mother, which fie was able to do by the practice of strict economy. At the age of 21 he engaged in a private brokerage and commission business and is still thus engaged, having by fair and square dealing built up an increasing and remunerating business, with offices in Atlanta and other cities.
Brother Jarvis received his masonic degrees in old Atlanta Lodge No. 59, initiated October 9th, 1919, passed January 22nd, 1920, raised Februarv 16th, 1920.
He was.elected Worshipful Master of Atlanta Lodge at the regular annual meeting in December, 1923, and regularly installed as Worshipful Master for the ensuing year.
A high compliment was paid Brother Jarvis as he is the second Worshipful Master ever elected from the floor to serve in the east in Atlanta Lodge, something rarely ever done in a Masonic Lodge. This act is a high recommendation and shows the confidence and esteem in which he is held in the hearts of the officers and members of Atlanta Lodge.
Brother Jarvis' administration has been a great success. By his due consideration for the wishes of the Past Masters and his solicitation of their advice and support be has gained their confidence and peace, harmony and brotherly love has reigned supreme during this year, an accomplishment much to be desired in a Masonic Lodge.
If Masonic qualifications are to be measured by the gauge of temperance, then Brother Jarvis has fully demonstrated his qualifications, from the most reliable reports, the unusual information comes, not only from the lips of his mother, but from his closest friends, that Brother Jarvis, never in his boyhood days, nor since, been known to take a drink of alcoholic stimulants, nor indulge in the use of tobacco in any form. This may, in part, account for his splendid good health and that pleasant smile, which never fades. Brother Jarvis is a member Mount Zion Chapter, R. A. M., Jason Burr Council, and Coeur de Lion Commandery.
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A PIECE OF ANCIENT ART.
The Masonic student who delights in investigating things ancient inMasonry will be interested, no doubt, in the following piece of Ancient Art here presented—a Masonic apron. The cut here presented shows a Masonic apron now inthe possession of Worshipful Brother C. E. Jarvis, Jr., the Worshipful Master of Atlanta Lodge No. 59. This apron has been, like Masonry, handed down from generation to generation and from statements from Brother Jarvis and his mother this apron has been in the family for over two hundred years and has a date of birth which associated it with the names of his great grandfather and things Masonic two hundred years ago, and perhaps before speculative Masonry came into existence, which was, as we know in 1717. The emblems and marks shows a kinship with Ancient Templarism. This apron is made of silk and sewed with silk and has been preserved in a well seated case covered with glass and is in good state of preservation. Brother Jarvis and his family value this antique relic highly.
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OFFICERS OF ATLANTA LODGE - 1925 -
On the following pages will be seen the photographs of Atlanta Lodge's Officers for 1924 as follows:
C. E. Jarvis, Jr . . . . . . . . . . . . . Worshipful Master M. B. Parsons . . . . . . . . . . . . . Senior Warden J. W. Renshaw . . . . . . . . . . . . . Junior Warden Plennie Minor (Past Master) . . . . Treasurer Joshua F. Tye . . . . . . . . . . . . . Secretary P. G. Young . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tyler
Appointed Officers: G. H. Jordan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . S. D. C. O. Johnson . . . . . . . . . . . . . J. D. J. W. Rawlingson . . . . . . . . . . S. S. Dr. L. B. Clarke . . . . . . . . . . . J. S. W. H. Tilman . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chaplain Paul M. Hubbard . . . . . . . . . . Organist
Atlanta Lodge No. 59 held its Seventy-Eighth Annual Communication on Thursday, December 11, 1924, when the following officers were elected and appointed for the ensuing year (1925):
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Edw. L. Phillips . . . . . . . . . . . Worshipful Master J. W. Renshaw . . . . . . . . . . . . Senior Warden |Rev. W. H. Tilman . . . . . . . . . Junior Warden Plennie Minor . . . . . . . . . . . . . Treasurer R. H. Carpenter . . . . . . . . . . . . Secretary P. G. Young . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tyler J. W. Rawlingson . . . . . . . . . . Senior Deacon C.O. Johnson . . . . . . . . . . . . . Junior Deacon Dr. M. L. B. Clarke . . . . . . . . Senior Steward O. D. White . . . . . . . . . . . . . . JuniorSteward Rev. Grubbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chaplain P. M. Hubbard . . . . . . . . . . . . Chaplain
FINANCE COMMITTEE R. N. Fickett . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Chairman Fred H. Snead Will E. Carnes
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TWENTY-FIVE OTHER PAST MASTERS (1894-1924)
The following pages presents the faces of Atlanta Lodgeâ€s other Past Masters. Beginning in 1894 when Worshipful Brother James L. Mason filled the East; the Lodge then met at the old State Capital, corner Marietta and Forsyth Streets, and which was destroyed by fire in December, 1894, and with it, most all records of the Lodges meeting there.
Of the twenty-five Past Masters since this period, four have succumbed to the dread messenger Death, and have gone to their reward, gathered into that everlasting spring and summers land where their fathers have gone before them, into the splendor and glories of the greater mysteries where the bond of fellowship is rendered perfect and where love and friendship are unchanging, everlasting and immortal.
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In Memory of:
Worshipful Brother Isaac Steinhanier. Worshipful Brother Thomas Evans. Worshipful Brother James M. Fuller. Worshipful Brother John M. Jinkins.
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PAST MASTERS OF ATLANTA LODGE No. 59
1847-1924
 *1847-Leonard C. Simpson   1848-Leonard C. Simpson  *1849-Moses Hynenian   1850-Leonard C. Simpson   1851-Leonard C. Simpson   1852-Leonard C. Simpson  *1853-Robert M Clarke   1854-Robert M Clarke   1855-Leonard C Simpson  *1856-W. T C. Campbell   1857-Rev. Lewis Lawshe   1858-Rev. Lewis Lawshe   1859-W. T. C. Campbell  *1860-Thomas M. Beaumont   1861-Rev. Lewis Lawshe   1862-Rev. Lewis Lawshe   1863-Rev. Lewis Lawshe   1864-Rev. Lewis Lawshe   1865-Rev. Lewis Lawshe  *1866-Thos. W. Chandler   186l-Thos. W. Chandler   1868-Thos.  W. Chandler  *1869-G. T. Anderson   1870-G. T. Anderson  *1871-A. C Ladd  *1872-W. F Parkhurst   1873-Jolin M. Boriti-   1874-W. F. Parkhurst   1875-W.F. Parkhurst   1876-W.F. Parkhurst   1877-W.F. Parkhurst  *1878-J. R. Grainlin  *1879-H. D. Austin   1880-W. F. Parkhurst  *1881-George Thompson   1882-George Thompson  *1883-J. M. Stephens   1884-W. F. Parkhurst   1885-W. F. Parkhurst  *1886-George H. Holliday  *1887-H. E. W. Palmer   1888-A. J. Shropshire   1889-A. J. Shropshire   1890-A. J. Shropshire  *1891-L. D. Carpenter  *1892-L. D. Carpenter   1893-L. P. Stephens   1894-Jas. L. Mason   1895-Jno. C. Joiner **1896-Henry M. Wood   1897-Heny M. Wood   1898-Henry M. Wood   1899-A. L. Curtis  *1900-Isaac Steinheimer **1901-A. H. Van Dyke **1902-W. O. Stamps   1903-R. H. Carpenter   1904-O.H. Hall   1905-Jas. E. Hickey   1906-Will E. Carnes   1907-Richard N. Fickett  *1908-Thos. Evans   1909-Thos. Evans   1910-Wm. H. Terrell   1911-W. A. Justice   1912-Plennie Minor   1913-Alvin L. Richards  *1914-Jas. M. Fuller   1915-Robert E. Church   1916-John Terrell   1917-W. A. Jackson   1918-J. B. Bradford  *1919-John M. Jinkens   1920-Fred H. Snead   1921-Fred J. Cooledge   1922-Luther B. Stephens   1923-Geo. C. Edmondson   1924-C. E. Jarvis, Jr.
  *Deceased.
 **Demitted.
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Are we doing our full duty as Masons and living the life of a true Mason which can only can make us what God intended we should be—a true man. If not, when?
The beautiful lines of James H. Heron seems to answer the question:
WHEN? (James H. Heron)
When, in the silence of the night, When darkness hugs the world so tight, When all is hushed and quiet with sleep, Then haunting memories 'round me creep; When I can spend that hour alone, And find the man I've never known, When I can meet him face to face, And there commune with me apace.
When I can take myself in hand, And measure up just where I stand; When I can gaze into my heart, And see my worth upon life's chart; When I can look back o'er the road, And count the times I've shirked my load, And estimate the hours I've spent On things that were not permanent.
When I can realize the crime Of spending worthlessly my time; When I can call things by the name I ought to, and accept the blame; When I can place where it belongs The reason for my countless wrongs; When I can pile in one great heap My faults, the harvest I shall reap;
Then knowing what I am, can say: "From this time onward, from today, I'll work and serve and will to win, To mould a better man within." So, when I turn the searchlight on, The faults I had will all be gone, And there shall stand revealed to me The man God meant that I should
Membership of Atlanta Lodge, No. 59
See page 10 and subsequent pages. According to returns made to the Grand Lodge of Georgia on August 31, 1924, the membership roll of Atlanta Lodge, No. 59, contained 725 names. The report of the Grand Secretary on August 31, 1934 ”ten years later” placed the membership at 355.
As by previous record Atlanta Lodge had forty-eight Post Masters in 1925, to date, 1935, ten more Past Masters have been aided to the roster, as follows:
Jos. W. Renshaw . . . . . . .1926 James W. Rawlinson . . . . 1927 C. O. Johnson . . . . . . . . .1928 Dr. L. M. B. Clarke . . . . . .1929 O. D. White . . . . . . . . . . 1930 Duke C. Meredith . . . . . . .1931 H. Walton Cheney . . . . . . 1933 Percy H. Perkins, Jr. . . . . 1932 Frank R. Fling . . . . . . . . . 1934
Edward L. Phillips . . . . . . . . . . 1925
Edward L. PhillipsJos. W. Renshaw . . . . . . .1926 James W. Rawlinson . . . . 1927 C. O. Johnson . . . . . . . . .1928 Dr. L. M. B. Clarke . . . . . .1929 O. D. White . . . . . . . . . . 1930 Duke C. Meredith . . . . . . .1931 H. Walton Cheney . . . . . . 1933 Percy H. Perkins, Jr. . . . . 1932 Frank R. Fling . . . . . . . . . 1934
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