were the other Brothers, true and tried, of our Most Worshipful Jurisdiction
that were called by the Grand Architect of the Universe this year. We pause
hero for a moment of solemn silence to their memory, Peace be to their
ashes, now, henceforth and forever. We shall cherish the memory of these
our departed Brethren forever.
MASONIC TEMPLE
Although the completion and dedication of the temple took place this year
during my administration, the credit for its noble beginning belongs to Past
Grand Master Harris. The work moved forward toward completion under the
administration of Past Grand Masters Fred U. Harris, Hilliard Hood,
Theodore Spearman and Joseph I. Staton. Now in the sixth year, under the
cumulative energies and labors of those administrations, we hove a Masonic
Temple of which we are proud. A progressive look reveals that within a few
years we shall grow out of this Hall and have to plan for larger facilities
to house our many Lodges, Chapters, and the official family.
Before plans wore let for the renovating, in 1956, meetings wore held in the
old foyer of the theater; heating was a problem, as was water seepage;
organizations objected to meeting in the building due to lack of
sanitation, ventilation and accommodations. Income from the property was
being reduced to such a degree it was difficult to moot commitments made in
the purchase. The Grand Lodge, Grand Chapter, the Lodges and Chapters of
Seattle, composing the Temple Association, rallied their energies and.
finances and began the work of putting the building in a capacity that it
would, not only carry its financial obligations, but, also, make the
building worthy of the Prince Hall fraternity emblem, I shall not go into
the contracts, since the Grand Trustee Board’s report will give you these
details.
In November, 1956, the Temple Association sent a request to the Grand
Chapter to make a loan to them for $1,000. In January, a similar request
reached my office. I informed them that, in my opinion, the Grand Lodge
would not favor a loan, but advised a request to purchase stock. I also
advised the Worthy Grand Matron a stock purchase would be more expedient
than for the Grand Chapter to enter into a loan.
This request to purchase stock was made by the Chairman of the Grand Trustee
board to my office. I forwarded same to the Office of the Chairman on
Finance, W. Brother Russell Gideon, 33º. It was duly processed thru his
office by his committee on Finance and passed by an overwhelming majority. I
favorably passed it and the warrant was drawn for the purchase of $l,000
additional stock in the Temple Association, The Grand Finances at that date
considered the request, but due to their programming could only purchase
$500 in stock; but gave assurance of additional purchase later. The work is
now completed and our Temple Auditorium is beautiful to behold. On April
21st with the official family of the Grand Lodge, the assistance of Fred U.
Harris, P.G.M, Hilliard Hood, P.G.M., Joseph I Staton P.G.M., and the Lodges
of District #1, the Temple was dedicated before a large and enthusiastic
audience.
There are so many who gave so unselfishly of their time and energy to this
noble work, that I do not like to call out or single out, one individual for
fear of leaving out another who labored equally as hard. This is the way it
should be, for by our collective efforts we unite ourselves into a unity and
fellowship that will surmount all obstacles. May it be our highest ambition
that our united efforts shell shed lustre on the immortal pages. We are
very thankful and humble to Him, who know all and sees all, for seeing our
cause as worthy and rewarding our energies. The galleries arc full of
critics--they play no ball, they fight no fights. They make no mistakes
because they attempt nothing. Down in the arena arc the doers, Thank God we
hove so many Doors. Ford forgot to put a reverse gear in his first auto.
Edison spent two million dollars on an invention that failed. So you see
all we humans make mistakes. Only the Grand Architect of the 1Tniverse
unknown to us men, has perfected all. So the man that makes no mistakes
locks boldness and the spirit of adventure. He is the one who never tries
anything. He is the brake on the wheels of progress. Yet, it cannot be truly
said that he makes no mistakes, because the biggest mistake he makes is the
very fact that he tries nothing, does nothing, except criticize those who do
things. The most significant lesson is this: Don’t park beside of in
DEFEATISM. Now I say to you that we have come this far we shall not park in
Success. We shell take our Success and put it into positive action. We offer
our congratulations to all members of this Grand Lodge and Grand Chapter on
the successful conclusion of this, our project. We commend you zeal and.
hope it will moot with ample recompense. Nay our Temple be the homo of
Piety, Virtue end Benevolence. May our M. W. Prince Hall Jurisdiction
continues to flourish, our union to strengthen, and our happiness to abound,
till time shall be no more. Our Temple is now able to operate on a sound
financial basis. It should and shall be on a basis to complete paying itself
off without any inconvenience to the Grand Lodge or Grand Chapter.
STATE OF THE CRAFT
In the visitations to the various lodges and district meetings, we have
found a great interest manifested in the Grand Lodge’s programming end in
its officers. We have found the Brothers of the lodges interested in, and
demanding programming in, the fields of Youth and Education. This interest
and vitality of our membership and, they in our work, means a healthy
jurisdiction. A militant jurisdiction.
Most of the Lodges show a desire to become bettor informed Masons. In lodges
whore the membership are being properly taught, you can easily find men with
a desire and programming to servo the needy and less fortunate. Our
fraternity is becoming more intelligent and better informed each year, to
the real purposes of Ancient Craft Masonry and applying it to modern day
living.
I did not visit all the Lodges of our Jurisdiction during to year because we
met many of the Worshipful Masters and members in our District meetings; and
secondly, you will be able to ascertain by the schedule I maintained and the
extra work it was necessary for me to undertake and perform in my office,
that it was an impossibility.
I shall not go over the importance of programming in your lodges as that was
accomplished and gone over thoroughly for the first time last fall, with the
officers of the Lodges and District Deputy Grand Masters; and again at the
District meetings this year. Adequate programming is essential to a healthy
lodge. We support the idea of a yearly programming which is submitted to
each lodge at the first communication in the fall, and again emphasized at
the first communication following election of officers. Well planned St.
John’s Lay services and Prince Hall Day programs should be in the
programming stage a minimum of two months before those dates. This was done
in many lodges this pest year, and splendid results were the reward.
I was one of the proponents of District meetings. In fact, if you recall, I
made a lengthy speech, when Deputy Grand Master, defending the use of
District meetings. I am still of the opinion that properly used and
attended, they enhance our program. After watching their effectiveness the
past two years, I have concluded that two of our Districts use them or
utilize them to a distinct advantage. The participation in the other
Districts has not been of sufficient numbers to warrant their continued use.
The choice is evident. We must have larger participation to continue with
them or return to the visitations of each Lodge. The latter is more costly
in a dollar sense to the Grand Lodge, but the “Grass Roots Movement.” of
reaching each individual in the subordinate Lodge is more effective. We find
that each Lodge, in the privacy of its own chambers, is more willing to
discuss its individual problems and needs. The strength of any Grand Lodge
lies in the vitality of its members and when we work with the individual
membership we revitalize them, which make for better lodges. We have 18
lodges in our jurisdiction, with 17 of these within traveling distance for
visitations. It is my opinion, and I sincerely believe a sound one, if these
lodges wish individual visits, although it may cause an increase in budget,
they should have their choice. The Grand Lodge should make it possible for
several of our lodges which arc in dire need of assistance to plan their
budget so the Grand Lecturer and Grand Master can visit them up to three
times a year. This is the only way these lodges will be placed on a sound
foundation.
It is, also, the sound judgment of this administration, after careful
evaluation of our Jurisdiction, and also research of methods of successful
programming in our sister jurisdiction, that all spring visitations should
be cut out. It is absolutely mandatory that these visitations and District
meetings, if some districts still desire them, should be set up on a
schedule from September 7th to December 15th.
That is the only time, planning and programming may be established on a
basis by which the Lodges may fully utilize the planning of the Grand Lodge.
After that period the lodges cannot inject the programming into such a
short time schedule of progress cannot be attained for the jurisdiction.
I inject a serious note. The Grand Lodge must end shall inject a sternness
and determination into the laws of the August Body. I found in many places
the controversy of Lester's, Duncan's, and Richardson, still provides a
lively evening of discussion.
I have noted our work conveniently adheres to the Grand Lodges edict when
the Grand Officers are present, but I have well-founded suspicions it does
not adhere in the daily activities of the Lodge at work and in instructions.
I roderod the Grand Secretary to cancel and order from one lodge for an
order of twelve Duncan rituals this year. I, your Grand Master, do not like
the unsavory task of being a watch dog, but if the Grand Ledge Laws so order
you to use “Lesters Look to the East”, I expect you to; and demand that,
that ritual is to be used, not just for the evening your Grand Lecturer or
Grand Master is present, but during every communication during th0 year, and
in any Lodge instruction. If it is not, that Lodge may expect to be
censored, I expect to see you fulfill the law just as you expect use, your
Grand Nester and Grand Officers, to fulfill the law.
REPORT ON OFFICIAL FAMILY
An evaluation of the accomplishments of the official family of your Grand
Lodge is something new for this jurisdiction. It is being used by many of
our progressive sister jurisdictions, and I feel it is a necessary addition
to let you, the Brethren of this Grand. Lodge, know what has been
accomplished, and the assistance and cooperation which has been given this
administration. It will also bring to light some of the errors which have
been made and make many of our officers realize the importance of the office
they hold and that by taking office, they obligate themselves to the service
of this jurisdiction, It is essential we realize that we are rapidly
approaching the level of a large business organization, and those that
assume office, also assume a deft obligation to our Masonic fraternity to
maintain a standard of excellence and decorum while in that office. They
must forget private differences and personal feelings and work for the
building of our fraternal order so it will be a. delight to us and a shining
example of self sacrifice and service to our communities.
I am very pleased to report that the Official Family has worked together in
Harmony, with but one or two exceptions.
R.W. Grand Secretary Fred U. Harris, P.G.M. has worked hard and arduously again
this year. One does not realize the sincere endeavor he puts into his office
until one has worked with him. Before becoming Grand Master I had criticized
our Grand Secretary rather severely at times. After working with him this
year, and beginning to understand the methods under which he has labored, I
have begun to appreciate his services more and more. I began to understand
that many of the changes that were not forthcoming from his office were not
due to his negligence but due to our methods of handling those programs.
We have worked together on many of these methods this year, and we both
assure you, with your assistance at this Grand Lodge, many of these
progressive changes you have been wanting will soon be forthcoming. In
addition to handling all official matters pith the secretaries of 17
subordinate lodges, and handling my directives and proclamations, he serves
as secretary to the Grand Trustees, and has assisted me admirably in
communications.
R.W. Grand Treasurer R. D. Bird, P.G.M. I know and you all know, how faithful
he has been these many years. He guards, protects and supervises your money
as he does his own. It has been a pleasure to work with him and his office
has cooperated with this administration fully.
R.W. E. A. Douglas, 33º, Grand Lecturer, has been very active since planning
his program this year. He contacted all lodges requesting dates for
visitation in September, in October, and again, early in December. I have
copies of those requests in my office, many did not answer him, and so, in
many phases, his program was held up. His program was held up, and so the
Grand Lodge’s program was hold up. This was not his fault, as ho was ready
and willing to come to assist you whenever you were ready. He has attended
and demonstrated the work at all District meetings, also, several
visitations to the subordinate lodges. He traveled to the Grand Masters’
Conference on his own expense just because of his interest in your Masonic
activities, and to gain all information and programming that this splendid
conference had to offer, to bring back to our jurisdiction and to implement
our programs.
The Office of Deputy Grand Master did not function up to expectations this
year. The Youth and Scholarship program was to have been directed from this
office. Early in our Masonic year, September 3, l956 to be exact, I
received a communication from the Grand Secretary enclosing un-Masonic
placed against our R.W. Deputy Grand Master. Before I could answer this
communication to inform them the charges were not properly placed, I
received a communication charges bad been placed in Queen of Sheba Chapter
#12 O.E.S. Those charges were not withdrawn until September 18, l956.
Although our Deputy Grand Master was cleared of those charges the whole
affair set our programming back considerably. This action on his part, I
hope, will reflect upon the minds and consciences of all, we must ever
remember that our conduct must not only be correct in the lodge hall but
that our expressions and actions must also be the opinions of genuine
builders of society outside the lodge hall. We, of the Masonic fraternity
and more especially the official family must at all times subdue our
emotions, if the attack on us is unwarranted and unfounded. We must not
forget that fidelity to the trust which is reposed in us, and explode in
aggression in public even if we feel personally such action is justifiable,
In March 1957, it was necessary for me to receive and accept the resignation
of the R.W. Deputy Grand Master from the Chairmanship of the Committee on
Youth and Education. In March I requested my District Deputy Grand Master to
go to R.W. Allen’s house and receive the scholarship applications which had
not been sent out. Upon following, my order, he found that none of the
applications has been sent out and took receipt of all of them. More on the
scholarship and c1uca.tion program will come under that heading.
On the balance side of the ledger, Brother Allen assisted very ably in the
dedication of the Temple in Seattle end gave excellent advice and assistance
during the Temple in Seattle and Tacoma and the Past Master’s Council in
Tacoma. This office left much to be desired, in the assistance and work the
Grand Lodge should have received from it this year. It is my opinion it is
the responsibility of the Grand Master to afford opportunity for training
and guidance of his Deputy Grand Master. To this end, I began the year, but
it was impossible to continue with this policy with the obstacles the Deputy
Grand Master placed before me, which finally culminated in my receiving his
resignation.
The Grand Senior Warden, Lee Grant Rogers, cheerfully executed every
assignment tended him, this year. Ho was present end assisted in the
dedication of the Temple, assisted in the District meeting in Tacoma and he
has executed assigned tasks with credit to both himself and the Grand Lodge.
The Junior Grand Warden and C.C.F.C. Sylvester J. Lake has brought
sincerity, and a very complete and broad review of our sister jurisdictions,
to our jurisdiction throughout the year. He contributed articles to the
Grand Master’s letter to the Craft. He has been in attendance at several of
the District meetings; addressed the Past master’s Council; assisted in the
dedication of the Masonic Temple, end he has executed assigned tasks with
credit to both himself and the Grand Lodge. His knowledge of ritualistic
work and the unassuming dignity, with which he serves, adds lustre and
enhances the office he fills. It has been a pleasure and a privilege to have
had him to assist and work with me in the many phases of the work this year.
Chairman of Finance and Auditing Committee, W. Russell Gideon, 33º, has been
most cooperative this year, in all phases of our work. As Chairman of the
Masonic Temple Board, his ability as a director and getting things done is
unsurpassed. The speed with which he dispatches business through our complex
finance system is more than efficient. His judgment on business
propositions to this Grand Lodge has been more than helpful and I would have
been lost without his ability to coordinate activities.
Chairman of the Board of Grand Trustees, Hilliard Hood, P.G.M. has given me
splendid cooperation. I received a semi-annual report from his office in
January, which was very complete. He has informed me that I shall receive
his yearly report before the sitting of the Grand Lodge. It shall be read
to you this day. I am sure it will be most informative and interesting.
The appointed officers, I wish to point out as contributing much to the
programming and Grand Lodge activities this year, are W., Brother Ray
Williams, Grand Historian (deceased). The last article he contributed to
the Grand Faster’s letter shall be read at this session. W. Brother James
W. Tyree, Grand Orator; W. Alfred David, Grand Marshall; W., Orval N.
Denton, Grand Senior Deacon, and W., Earl Loneia, Grand Junior Deacon.
I wish to point out the following Brothers, for outstanding service to our
Grand Jurisdiction this year. R.W. John Prim, P.D.G.M., and Grand Attorney. He
has assisted your Grand Pastor in many ways during this year, and I am more
then appreciative for his very able advice.
W., Jim Purnell’s work on Guidance Clinics for Youth, and a member of the
Youth and Education Committee.
W., W.B. Foster, Grand Senior Steward, work on Youth Clubs and activities
and a member of the Youth and Education Committee.
W., Brother George Jordan, for outstanding research which will prove
beneficial to Masonry here in the Northwest.
The following District Deputy Grand Masters; R.W. Lemuel L. Smith, District
#1; R.W. Gerald L. Baldwin, District #2; R.W. Benjamin Chandler, District
#3; R.W. William G. Tucker, District #4; R.W. James L. Watson, 33º, P.D.G.M.,
District #5; and R.W. A.E. Pendray, P.D.G.M., District #6.
Last, but far from least, M.W. Theodore Spearman, P.G.M. who so graciously at
the last minute accepted and worked on the Scholarship Committee, who at
District #4 District meeting and banquet so ably presented me with my jewels
of office and during the year has given mc able and expedient council, I,
and the whole jurisdiction, thank you all.
All Prince Hall Grand Lodges are becoming aware of the serious growth of
bogus Masonic groups. We find this serious situation not confined to the
Prince Hall family, but to others also. I shall cover this phase of my
report under the report on the conference of Grand Masters. This year I have
been determined to do more than merely write or talk about bogus Masonry in
this annual report. I am sure many of you remember my address at the
District meetings concerning those clandestine groups. A well-qualified
committee has been appointed and is working, not only to develop a policy,
but, when perfected it shall be put into execution, and I assure you we
shall drive every segment of those spurious bodies from out jurisdiction.
This committee shall not report at this Grand Session. Every lodge in the
Jurisdiction shall have this report as soon as all phases of it are
completed.
GRAND LODGE BURIAL FUND
There was a recommendation placed before the Grand Lodge at its last
communication relative to exploring the possibility of increasing our Grand
burial benefit along sound lines; especially to ascertain if through an
insurance plan we could increase the benefits to the Brethren. All lodges
received a communication from the Office of the Grand Secretary in
September, l956 to forward the names, addresses, and ages (birth dates) of
all members of cash subordinate lodges. The response to this request was
very poor. I was informed from many sources; the brethren resented having
to give their ages. However, by February, a fair return from the
jurisdiction was received. I placed these in the hands of Joseph I. Staten,
P.G.M., who I named Chairman of this committee. I was informed by Brother
Staton, that after investigation with several insurance companies, with the
age bracket the greater percentage of our Fraternity are in, it would be
prohibitive to adopt an insurance plan due to the increased premiums that
would have to be paid.
I then went to Robert E. Hall, Deputy Insurance Commissioner of the Eastern
Washington District representing William A. Sullivan, State Insurance
commissioner, to obtain information concerning our possibilities and
limitations operating as a fraternal organization to dispense charity at the
death of a member with the assessments we could make on our membership and
the amount we could pay without placing ourselves within the insurance laws
of this State. I was informed we were permitted to pay up to three hundred
dollars upon the death of a member without placing ourselves in the
classification of operating insurance.
The reason for the interest in this field is that we have initiated and
practiced poor business manner we have operated this fund for some number of
years. In 1939 we were paying $3 per year into this fund and upon a death
would pay one hundred dollars. In 1946, we began paying $125 upon a death
and still only paid $3 to this fund; and in l954 we increase this death
benefit to $200, and are still only paying $3 a year. Under this system one
would have to be a member 33 1/3 years to pay in $100, which we originally
began with, and now you would have to be a member 66 2/3 years to fulfill
such a contract, loss ten percent the money should earn in that length of
time.,
Although we have averaging under 10 deaths per year, with the increased age
bracket of our jurisdiction we can expect that number to b doubled or more
than doubled in the near future. This will produce a severe strain upon our
financial structure at that time. The State would never permit an insurance
company to operate under the system we have been using a s they know the
ultimate end is bankruptcy. There is only one thing to do and that is to
begin preparing for an immediate change. in policy and place this department
upon a sound financial basis.
I proposed two plans to the Deputy Insurance Commissioner, which he took to
Seattle to confer with the State Insurance Commissioner. Both were
acceptable. I submit them both to you, with the recommendation that the
second plan be used. It will be a fund that will be depleted each year. It
is a plan that will give adequate insurance to the membership up to the
limitations set by the. State, yet it will not affect your Grand lodge
financial structure the years we find an unusual number of deaths. It will
also in many years provide adequately for many of the worthwhile charities
we Prince Hall Masons should be supporting. I solicit your earnest
consideration for this recommendation.
Our membership is approximately 800.
Proposed plans for Grand Burial Fund:
1.
Each member of the Jurisdiction pay into the
Grand Burial Fund through their subordinate Lodge $5 per year.
Upon the death of a Brother (member) the Grand
Lodge will pay to his subordinate Lodge up to $250, as the funds in the
Grand Charity Fund will afford, to assist the Lodge in the Charity to his
family.
Surplus left in this fund at the end of each year
is non-transferable and will be hold or retained in this fund and placed in
U.S. Government Bonds as a reserve for this Grand Burial Fund.
2.
This fund shell be designated as a Grand Burial
and Charity Fund.
Each member of the jurisdiction pay into the Grand Burial and Charity and
through their subordinate $5 per year.
Upon the death of a Brother (member) the Grand Lodge will pay to his
subordinate Lodge $125 to assist the Lodge in the charity to his family.
At the end of the Masonic Grand Lodge fiscal year all monies left in this
fund shall be divided by the number of deaths up to the total amount of $300
for each death and be forwarded to the respective subordinate lodges for
distribution of charity to the respective families.
All above this amount of a Grand Total of $300 per death to the deceased
family shall be proportioned to the charities of:
a.
The National Association for the Advancement of
Colored People
b.
National Polio Fund
c.
Negro College Fund
d.
The Urban league
e.
The Grand Lodge Youth and Guidance Clinic
Department.
All monies each year shall be deposited in this fund and shall be
disbursed to the above charities at t ho end of each fiscal year.
A reserve from the General Fund of the Grand Lodge of $1000 shall be
established to complete obligations to this fund until the first quarter
returns of the Lodges composing this Grand Lodge of Washington and
Jurisdiction have deposited monies in this fund.
YOUTH AND EDUCATION
We began a program on Youth and Education this year. The Scholarship program
was established last year. I shall have to give you a picture of the
problems we were confronted with this year.
I am alarmed about many phases of this program. Many things have happened
this year that demands the re-tooling of our thinking and the re-direction
of our action. We are known to be a charitable organization. We decided to
select a worthy charity in which we could all share the growth and be proud.
We selected Youth and Education. No cause could be more worthy of our
support. If you road the papers, and I know you do, crucial decision are
being made daily, momentous decisions about where our children are to
receive their education; the type of jobs they may be eligible to seek; how
to assist in eliminating juvenile delinquency; where they and we shall
live. All these phases now are determining the course of American Democracy
f or generations to come.
Most of the Prince Hall Grand Jurisdictions are taking specific action and
tremendous strides in participation in community progress and assisting
youth. We are as much a part of this second reconstruction era hero in the
North as any other part of those United States. What affects the Negro in
the South, the East or Midwest, affects we, the Negro hero, and is our
concern. Our youth enter decidedly into this second reconstruction period,
and truly merit our support. We selected a worthwhile charity last year.
Now let me give you a frank analysis of what we did with it.
In my record of our semi-annual report, and I am using that report since no
other monies were turned in this year. Monies collected and sent to the
Grand Secretary’s office for the Educational Fund collected on Prince Hall
Day. A total of $19.39 was collected by the whole jurisdiction. We can’t
hide these thinks. We have to bring them out in the open and do something
constructive about them. A breakdown of these figures: Cassia Lodge # 5 -
$8; Guiding Star Lodge #6 - $2.25; Perfect Ashlar Lodge #40-$2; Inland
Empire Lodge #3-$2.14; and Apple Blossom Lodge #32 of Wenatchee,
Washington, a lodge of only 5 members - $5. A total of $19.39. No other
lodges in our Jurisdiction contributed this required Prince Hall Day cause.
I was told by some, they didn’t know. The law on our books tells what to
do. All we had to do was road the law. So ignorance is no excuse. I am not
calling this to your attention to embarrass you. I can sincerely say I feel
it hurt me more than anyone else in this whole jurisdiction. If it wore not
for the ten percent being taken from the Grand Charity Fund at each Grand
Communication we would not have a fund or a Youth Department or the two
scholarships we shall give this year. In fact, if this fund had not been
started ton years ago, we could not give the two scholarships this year, as
what is deposited it’s this fund par year is not sufficient for two
scholarships. You see, it is mandatory for us to take militant action, to do
that job which we obligated ourselves to do. We must take a sharp look at
our antiquated financial structure under the system which we now operate.
We have a fixed budget of expenditures but no fixed budget of receipts for
the program. We have grown to a point of maturing where we cannot say “Throw
it in the ash can” as we have programs in the past. We have a responsibility
to face and if within our power we shall face it and we shall revamp this
charitable program and share end grow with it and be proud of our
accomplishments.
If each brother in our jurisdiction had done what the five brothers of Apple
Blossom Lodge felt it was their duty to do to assist our Youth, we would not
be grappling with this momentous phase of this program, but could be
directing our energies towards the successful operation of it. We are all
sound citizens. I know you all make contributions to the March of Limes,
the Heart Fund, Muscular Dystrophy Cause, T.B. Drive, Boy Scouts of
America, Girl Scouts of America, Camp Fire Girls, the United Crusade and
many others. They are important. However, we seem to forget the very
important Educational Fund of our Prince Hall Fraternity, that ovary dime
will go to help your very own. I might add that this Charity is as
deductible as any of the above. “We take care of our own” is an unwritten
axiom the world over.
I have the privilege of presenting to you a proposition, a plan whereby with
our membership where it now stands, a very small part individually,
multiplied by all, collectively will do so much for our own. By such a
method you will be able in four years to maintain scholarships for two
freshmen, two sophomores, two juniors and two seniors in college. You will
be able to sea and maintain two boys or girls through their whole college
career. This proposition calls for each brother of our fraternity to share
in this enterprise by contributing thirty five cents a quarter or one
dollar and forty cents a year. In this manner we shall promote a’ program of
which every brother will feel proud and. a part. It is my opinion this is
the. way we should promote this worthy charitable program so every brother
will assist in this important work, and Brethren, it is such a small amount
with which to accomplish so much. This reappraisal of this, our Youth and
Educational program, is essential to our economy. I have brought these
problems to the attention of all District meetings and the interest and
militant reaction was very heartening, I solicit your earnest support to
this phase of our work at this our 54th Annual Communication.
At the reception of the Scholarship program last year, the previous
mentioned financing of the program was omitted as well as a matter of this
program usually loft to the scholarship committee. In the interest for the
program and for the membership of the Grand Lodge I feel it is necessary to
include the following recommendation:
In awarding a scholarship, no check or money for the awarded scholarship
shall be paid directly to the recipient; but shall be paid directly to the
college or university of the recipient’s choice, after confirmation that
recipient has been accepted by said college or university.
This is the only way the Department of Scholarships will be able to check
and receive information from the school concerning grades, deportment, and
progress of the recipients of the scholarships.
Directing your attention to the scholarships you voted to award this year.
It is the opinions of this office and reaffirmed by educators and Deans of
several colleges of the state of Washington, that after an organization as
large as ours has decided upon a scholarship, it is for the best interest of
that program to have your Scholarship Committee complete all details upon
proper advice from the several colleges and universities. Only men trained
in these fields will be able to give you competent guidance and by those
decisions you shall have a soundly administered program, I wish to show you
how the lack of understanding and knowledge of the program and the making of
ill-advised motions governing the functioning of your program caused many
problems for your committee last year.
Upon the presentation of the Scholarship program at our last Grand
Communication, Harmony Lodge and Cassia Lodge both presented resolutions
requesting the Grand Master’s address Scholarship not be approved until the
convening of the 54th Grand Communication, and to award the scholarship in
September of each year, just before the opening of school.
On page 31 of our previous proceedings, it does not state the action taken
as to whether it was referred to the Committee on Resolutions, the Committee
on Jurisprudence, or just what category it passed on the floor; but was
referred to the Committee on Finance for further consideration. Why, to the
Committee on Finance, I will never know, as it was not a consideration of
finance with these two lodges. The proposition was that they did not have
sufficient time for their lodges to get out the scholarship forms. Page 32
of our proceedings, the Jurisprudence Committee on recommendations by my
office on Scholarship, they concurred. Page 33--educational action #20.,
adoption of DGM W. Vernon Scott‘s program. Moved by Brother Loneia and
seconded by brother Denton that the program be received and adopted. Motion
carried. Final action by the Finance Committee #15. We recommend the
pictures of the Scholarship recipients be carried in the 54th Annual
Souvenir Program and the Grand Lodge shall underwrite the cost of same. This
passed unanimously. A beautiful merry-go-round of words.
You could not have the recipients of the Scholarship Awards pictures in your
souvenir program for the 54th Annual Communication if they were not
announced until this fall-September to be exact. We definitely know
September is too late for a student to be received by many colleges.
The registration should be established in June, if possible, as often in
most universities and colleges, the registration for certain popular classes
such as in engineering and chemistry is closed before August as the classes
arc already filled by the applicants. So such action is entirely improper
for the best interests of the program. Men not acquainted with the
regulations of such a program were in error when making this resolution on
this floor. We must do our business in an orderly manner. We must not
speak on a phase of our work until the committee reports, then make your
recommendations and act on them and refer them to the proper committee.
Such conditions as this will not then occur and we shall not lose so much
valuable time. So you see the lack of adequately understanding a program on
this level can cause a break down of the effectiveness of administering your
scholarship. I therefore recommend that you leave the detailed business of
dating your awards, etc., to your Committee. With sound advice from the
educators in these fields they will do a job of which you will be proud, and
will give your program an effectiveness it can attain under no other
proceeding.
Last year we wore informed that the several subordinate lodges did not feel
they had time to adequately get their scholarship applications in--so
requested a delay in the program. This year these some subordinate lodges
had knowledge of acquainting their communities with this program for a whole
year. I, personally, brought this phase of the program to you very clearly
and pointedly at our District meetings. These could have been distributed
earlier by the Deputy Grand Master. Upon accepting his resignation I found
out they had not been distributed and I personally took over the task. This
was followed by a reprinting of the applications so no mistake would be
made in where to return the application, and were mailed out by the Grand
Secretary to the subordinate lodges of the jurisdiction. So all had
adequate and timely knowledge. Last year the lodge of District #5 lead in
the scholarship applications returned.
This year District #5 lead in scholarship applications returned. District#1
and #2, who stated last year they did not have adequate time to work out the
scholarships, again this year, with adequate notice, did not return one
application. I sent a directive to all my District Deputy Grand Masters when
I noted toward the deadline that the applications were not forthcoming as
they should, to contact the Worshipful Masters and all members of the Lodges
and directed them if it were necessary to order a special communication to
get the information before the Lodges and their Districts. With this we
still did not get a response from District #1 and #2. I know that a total
Negro population in the combined first and second Districts of forty
thousand Negroes (conservative estimate), there are qualified boys and girls
who are in need of assistance in their education program and our program did
not reach them, The information was not disseminated, to them. The Lodges
must do this publicity work themselves. It takes work but it is well worth
it. The Grand Lodge cannot do all these things for you. We expect you to be
conscious of these responsibilities in the future and work for the
enlightenment and improvement of our young citizens in the immediate future.
The Committee was unable to obtain the Pythagoras Rituals in adequate
numbers this year. R.W. Douglas, G.L., obtained one copy from the
jurisdiction of California. R.W., J. Allen, D.G. sent an order for several
copies which never materialized and at the latest data (April), his
remittance had not been returned to him. However, while attending the Grand
Masters Conference, I conferred with the delegation from Ohio, where this
your program originated and R.W. James Simmons, Grand Master of Ohio,
assured me copies would be made available for us.
After consultation with delegates from several of our sister jurisdictions
at the conference, I found , with our present situation, it is far more
advisable and expedient that we first concentrate our energies upon setting
up Youth clubs, and after proper preparation, then enter those groups into
organized Pythagorean Units.
After receiving D.G.M. Allen’s resignation as Chairman of the Youth and
Education Committee, I made a trip to Seattle and set about the
reorganization of the Committee. From experience gained in the. program
last year, I took the Department of Scholarships under my office and this is
why this phase of the report is being made under the Grand Master’s Address,
this year. I placed W., Brother Furnell in charge of the Department of
Guidance Clinics, and W., Brother Foster in charge of Youth Clubs. Both of
these Worshipful Brothers will make a complete report on these activities at
this Grand Lodge.
I mailed a proclamation to the jurisdiction informing them that W. Brother
Russell Gideon of Seattle; WA., Brother William Mitchell of Portland, OR and
I, your Grand Master, would judge the Scholarship applicants. Upon receiving
a communication from the District Deputy Grand Masters of District #5, I
replaced W. Brother Mitchell with M.W. Theodore Spearman, P.G.M.
SISTER JURISDICTIONS
We are pleased to report that our Grand Lodge has cordial relationships and
is in fraternal accord with all other jurisdictions of the Prince Hall
family. We have had correspondence during the year with many of our sister
jurisdictions. I had hardly unpacked my suitcase, upon returning from Grand
Lodge, before I received an official welcome from M.W. Amos T. Hall, Grand
Maser of Oklahoma, and President of the Conference of Grand Masters,
welcoming me to the circle of Grand Masters. The same day I received
congratulations from the Honorable J. T. Maxey, Grand Master of Texas and
the Hon. John Wesley Dobbs, Grand Master of Georgia. I had the pleasure of
meeting 28 of the Grand Masters of our sister jurisdictions personally at
the Grand Masters’ Conference. Meeting them personally inspired, and gave
me renewed enthusiasm to return to my jurisdiction, and make our
jurisdiction measure up to the best. Our C.C.F.C. the R.W. Sylvester J.
Lake will bring you a detailed report on same, during the communication.
CONFERENCE OF GRAND MASTERS OF PRINCE HALL
MASONS OF AMERICA
in session at
ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA MAY
20-22, 1957
On the above date I attended this stimulating, and vary informative
conference of Grand Masters. It was a sacrifice at this time of the year for
me to go. As you know, I have a family to raise and an office to operate. I
feel the sacrifice was well worth my going. It was a sacrifice for you to
send me, and I feel very honored that you, my Brethren, felt I should attend
this conference and by my report I pray that you will feel your decision
was justified.
This organization is made up of Grand Masters, Past Grand Masters, Deputy
Grand Masters, Past Deputy Grand Masters, Grand Secretaries, Grand
Treasurers, C.C.F.C. ‘s and Past Grand Officers of these ranks. It is a
non-legislative body, but without question a most potential force for good
throughout the Masonic world.
M.W. John Lawrence, Grand Master of Minnesota, gave the Welcome Address. The
response was made by M.W. E. A. Fulcher, Grand Master of California.
Attendance was large and quite representative. 24 Grand Masters were
present, seven Deputy Grand Masters, 12 C.C.F.C.’s, five Grand Treasurers,
15 Grand Secretaries, 18 Special Representatives, and a total of 86 out of
State registrations were recorded. We were represented by R.W., E. A.
Douglas, 33°,
Grand Lecturer and your Grand Master. Representatives for the National
Foundation for Infantile Paralysis, Hon. Thurgood Marshall, Head of the
Legal Research Department of the N.A.A.C.P., Urban league, Sovereign Grand
Commander, United Supreme Commander, the United Supreme Council, Ancient and
Accepted Scottish Rites of Freemasonry for both the Southern Jurisdiction
and Northern Jurisdiction were in attendance. I. L.B. Blakemore, Past Grand
Master of Ohio addressed the conference on Masonic Lodge methods.
He was the first white Grand Master to ever attend or address the
Conference. Grand Masters from New York to Georgia and from Texas to the
State of Washington were present to indicate the wide range of interest and
the national benefits to be derived from such an annual meeting, all
designed to give unanimity of strength and action to Prince Hall Masonry
everywhere.
Among, the highlights of the conference was the annual address of Amos T.
Hall, President and Grand Master of Oklahoma. His review of the program to
eliminate illegal Masonry was very informative. This year, the Supreme
Court of the State of New Mexico affirmed the judgment enjoining the bogus
group from operating in the State of Mew Mexico.
Their appeal was denied and the illegal group is making an effort to
consolidate with the Prince Hall Grand Lodge. The Prince Hall Grand Lodge of
Oklahoma has won their lawsuit this year and the bogus groups have sought
membership in the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Ok1ahoma. In Kentucky, a suit
for an injunction against a bogus group is pending in the Circuit Court of
Louisville, Kentucky. The trial will be held soon, and again we expect to
win. In New York, the Prince Hall Grand Lodge through the Office of the
Attorney General, is challenging the right of a bogus group to operate in
that State. In Pennsylvania, the Prince Hall Grand Lodge is opposing the
admission of a spurious group in that state. The Prince Hall Grand Lodge of
1~ansas under a statute which was passed by the legislature of Kansas, the
Grand Lodge prosecuted several bogus Masons in the Criminal Courts, and in a
jury trial, the. Defendants were found guilty and punishment meted out to
them.
M.W. Amos T. Hall, brought out the Hon. George W. Crawford, Sovereign Grand
Commander of the Supreme Council Scottish Rites Masonry for the Northern
Jurisdiction, requested that he meet with him in the Cathedral at
Philadelphia, as they are laying plans formulated for waging an intensive
battle all over the country in an effort to wipe out illegal Masonry. The
Imperial Council of the Shrine has set up a commission to study and
eliminate the evil. This commission, in cooperation with the Grand Masters
of the various states, is doing more, in an organized way, to stamp out
illegal Masonry than has ever boon done before.
The information bureau of the Conference this year will forward to every
Grand Lodge for their jurisdiction, material to be read to make the whole
fraternity more aware of that pertinent material, we should know to prove
our legality and the illegality of the bogus groups. One point I wish to
stress is that the conference has long conceded the need of the information
bureau, but until adequate financial support was forthcoming from all the
Prince Hall Jurisdictions to sustain the cost of it they felt it expedient
to wait. We have not been giving the financial support to this, our
Conference, as we should, the past several years, and I recommend we become
active this year and send a contribution to assist in sustaining the
conference.
The President’s address also stressed Youth arid the important insight of
offering to our youth, our boys, and organization with uniformity and
stature in all jurisdictions. Material will be forthcoming from his office
concerning planning and uniformity of this work to 11 jurisdictions wishing
it.
Thurgood Marshall, Director and Counsel, N.A.A.C.P. legal Defense and Educational
Fund, Inc., addressed the conference. He also distinguishes himself by
being an active 33°
Mason. His report to the conference was highly informative, making one and
all realize up until recently the work of the NAACP had been directed,
almost exclusively, to securing for Negro citizens rights long denied,
albeit, originally guaranteed. Then under the 13th, 11th and 15th
amendments, litigation under these amendments created a now and distinct
field of law--Civil Rights. The cases already handled have taught thorn that
more export services will be needed. These developments are emphasizing the
importance of the Prince Hall Masons legal research department fund, end the
N.A.A.C.P.’s ability to meet that challenge depends for the long haul on its
output. This is the fund the Prince Hall Masons of these United States and
Canada subscribed to underwrite in 1951. His address made every participant
in the conference realize what concerns the Negro in the South also concerns
the Negro in the East and West, what affects all Negros, and the principle
of Right must work in all States.
I became more aware of our M.W. Jurisdiction not contributing to these most
important programs as the afternoon wore on. Nearly every Prince Hall
Jurisdiction present saw to it that they were represented in this militant
struggle which is being waged against mankind. They came prepared. I came
home prepared to make us more aware of our duty we have forgotten for some
several years. I shall include this worthy duty in my recommendations. I,
also, urge every Master Mason in this jurisdiction to see to it, whether you
have a N.A.A.C.P. chapter in your city or not, to become a member immediately and
assist in this fight for human rights.
The Conference decided on publishing the Prince Hall Masonic Year Book. It
will come off the press in February 1958. It is expected that each Grand
Lodge official family, and the Worshipful Masters and Secretary of each
Lodge have these informative books. This quota, if met by all Grand
Jurisdictions, will defray the cost which will amount to approximately sixty
cents (estimated) per book. I am sure we shall more than fill that quota for
our jurisdiction.
“Qualifications and Responsibilities of a Grand Lecturer as Viewed by a
Grand Master” presented by H.Z. Plummer, Grand Master of Virginia, and
“Duties of a. C.C.F.C.”, by Fred W. Hickman, Past Grand Master and C.C.F.C.
of Wisconsin, were two very interesting and informative articles. Instead of
reviewing them here today, due to their length, and also feeling the whole
jurisdiction should like to have them, we shall have portions of them
mimeographed by the Grand Secretary’s office end released to the
jurisdiction this summer.
James B. Simmons, Jr., Grand Master of Ohio led the panel discussion on
Spurious Masonry. He was very ably assisted by O. E. Vanderburg, Grand
Master of Illinois, Henry A. Rhodes, Grand Master of New York, John C.
Lewis, Grand Master of Louisiana, and J. W. Dobbs, Grand Master of Georgia.
The most notable point was the work and proposition creating a commission of
research and body of reference for the fo1lowing:
1.
Information on Education
2.
Information on Illegality of the Bogus Groups.
3.
Information of legal Points and Guidance.
Much of this information has already been disseminated to the proper
committees and the essential areas of our jurisdiction.
Wednesday evening, at the banquet closing the Conference, a fiery Georgian
told leaders of the Conference, we can obtain Civil Rights if we will battle
for them. M.W. John Wesley Dobbs, Grand Master of Georgia, as the gentleman
and was in rare form that evening. He held an audience of 600 spellbound. He
recently returned from the celebration of the founding of the African Negro
Republic of Ghanna. Grand Master Dobbs said nationalism is sweeping
Africa’s millions. They want freedom and are entitled to it, and so are we.
We must tell our Government we are interested in the welfare of oppressed
people in Hungary and other countries, but we are, also, interested in the
Black People of those United States.
Amos T. Hall, President of the Grand Masters Conference, endeared himself to
all those who attended this important fraternal event. He efficiently and
objectively conducted the business at hand. These men, whose every moment
of time was valuable, were especially grateful to him for adhering to the
time schedule which had been previously adopted for the conference. To do
this and still give each participant ample opportunity to feel free to
express his opinion is an enviable accomplishment.
“OUR ADOPTIVE RITE”
Many years ago our predecessors saw the need for the Order of the Eastern
star being given official status with the Prince Hall masons. They
therefore accomplished what is known today as “Our Adoptive Rite”.
During this year the Prince Hall Grand Chapter Order of Eastern Star and the
Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Washington and Jurisdiction have
exchanged fraternal greetings. The Worthy Grand Matron, Elise Reynolds, and
I, your Grand Master, have worked together on a sincere and friendly basis,
exchanging ideas and working for a better understanding and coordination of
activities. We are proud of our “Adoptive Rite” and commend the Worthy
Grand Matron, Elise Reynolds, and Worthy Grand Patron, Brother Robert V.
Hargroves, for the progressive administration they have initiated the last
two years.
We congratulate the Worthy Grand Matron, Elise Reynolds, on receiving the
honor of being named “Mother of the Year” for the state of Oregon. This is
the first time in the history of Oregon, or a state west of the Mississippi,
that a woman of color has received this distinction.
We urge all Prince Hall Masons to give assistance wherever, whenever, and
for whatever is needed, to our sisters.
I further recommend, we send a personal fraternal greeting to the Grand
Officers of the Grand Order of Eastern Star, who are convening at the same
time here in this beautiful city of Bremerton, Washington.
NEW LODGES UNDER DISPENSATION
I have for you the very cheering news of a dispensation being granted this
year, for the formation of a new lodge in our Prince Hall Jurisdiction. It
shall be known as Cherry Blossom Lodge U.D. until granted a charter.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
1.
I recommend that the Chairmanship of the Youth and
Education committee cease to be and elective office of the Grand Lodge, and
instead that a qualified member of our jurisdiction be appointed to this
position by the Grand Master.
2.
I recommend that the Youth and Education committee
be composed of the following divisions.
a.
The Director of Scholarships
b.
The Director of Guidance Clinics
c.
The Director of Youth Clubs
And shall be appointed by the Grand Master. One of whom shall be the
Chairman.
3.
I recommend that whereas the budget for the Youth
and Education Committee requires a fixed and detailed plan for receipts as
well as one for expenditures, that each member of this M.W. jurisdiction be
assessed the amount of 35 cents per quarter to meet said budget, of the
department of Youth and Education.
4.
I recommend that where as the above mentioned
assessment would be collected for the Youth and Educational department, that
80% of these monies collected be designated for scholarships, and 20% of
these monies collected be designated for Guidance Clinics, and Youth Clubs.
5.
I recommend that whereas this assessment is made
(Youth and Educational Assessment) for Youth and Education, that the money
collected in this fund be non—transferable to any other department or fund
of this M.W. Grand Lodge.
6.
I recommend that this sitting of the Grand Lodge
consider both plans for the Grand Lodge Burial fund detailed in my Address;
and I further recommend that after due consideration the Grand Lodge adopt
plan No. 2.
7.
I recommend whereas sound and proper financial and
ritualistic principles were not followed in establishing Pioneer Lodge No.
39. That the following action be taken by the Grand Lodge.
a.
The Grand Secretary be ordered to go over its
books and delete portions of its indebtedness to the Grand Lodge which have
been carried up to two years and these deletions shall follow the standard
order of procedures of Masonic Lodges.
b.
The several lodges of the jurisdiction that have
furnishings in excess of those necessary for their own functioning be
requested to allow pioneer Lodge their temporary use.
c.
The Grand Lodge shall contribute furnishings if
any are available.
d.
The Grand Master and Grand Lecturer be permitted
to make up to 3 visits to this lodge this year. The visits of the Grand
Master and Grand Lecturer shall not be made simultaneously; thereby Pioneer Lodge will have supervised assistance assured on six communications.
e.
We request the Brethren of Guiding Star Lodge and
Inland Empire Lodge to visit Pioneer Lodge and work with them so progress
will be achieved in the Tri-City area and pioneer Lodge shall take its
rightful position in our Prince Hall Fraternity.
8.
I recommend the Grand Master, Grand Secretary, and
Grand Lecturer; with the assistance of the District Deputy Grand Masters
this year begin work to formulate an established plan of assistance to the
smaller lodges in our jurisdiction.
9.
I recommend, whereas the general fund for the past
two years, the expenditures have boon in excess of the receipts, the
committee on finance, after their budgetary study make positive
recommendations to correct this condition.
10.
I recommend that Cherry Blossom Ledge U.D. upon
meeting all conditions and specifications of this Grand Lodge be granted a
charter.
CONCLUSION:
As you can see Brethren the official acts have been many and varied this
year. During the year the Grand Masters office mailed out three hundred and
twenty eight parcels. In making district meetings arid other official
business visits your Grand Master has traveled 10, 575 miles. Acting as my
own secretary for this office you can see it has consumed a tremendous
amount of my time and energies.
The work for the year is ended, and yet our work for all of us is just
beginning. For a Masons work is never ended until the Supreme Architect
calls him to that house not made with hands. I am heartened in knowing I
have not stood alone during the year, in carrying the responsibilities and
duties of being your Grand Master. I have been aware of your willing aid and
best wishes whore ever I traveled. For this sincerity and friendliness I am
humbly grateful. Each one of you has been of utmost importance, for without
you the wheels of our Grand Lodge would have been notionless. Our Grand
jurisdiction needs many an able and willing hand. Let every Master Mason on
down to the newest initiated E. A. remembers that, and strives to exemplify
the teachings of Freemasonry. Let not the mistakes of the past year in any
way hinder our progress, but serve as stepping stones over which we must
climb towards our Masonic Goal.
I am returning to you the gavel of authority entrusted to my care one year
ago. I can sincerely say and feel every Grand Master before me felt the same
way, that no man can fill the high office of Grand Master, carry the weight
and duties successfully without an ever present awareness of his own
inadequacy. Your problems were my problems; your mistakes were my mistakes.
I believe it was said, it is human to err. The errors I have made were not
made intentially, but were made while endeavoring to serve you. For it has
been the one desire of my heart, the one purpose of my life, to promote and
preserve the progress and principles of our institution. In using the gavel
of authority you entrusted to my cares I trust you will find it has not been
used to foster selfish motives and promote personal interests, but every act
was motivated with the single desire to serve my Crafts.
Fraternally Submitted,
W. Vernon Scott, 32°
Grand Master
