M.W. JOHNNY ALLEN

MOST WORSHIPFUL GRAND MASTER

Past Grand Masters, R.W. & Worshipful Grand Lodge Officers, Worshipful Masters, Past Masters, Wardens, Visiting Representatives of Other Jurisdictions, Masonic Dignitaries of Our Affiliated Bodies and of Civic, Business, Professional, Political, Fraternal Groups, the Clergy and Brothers. 

Greetings:

Brothers, sixty years ago, on April 19, 1903, the first Grand Lodge Constitution was adopted, an election held, officers installed and a new Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Masons was born in this Pacific Northwest, known as the Grand Lodge of Washington and Oregon. J.C. Logan was Grand Master and there were three lodges as members. Today we are meeting in the beautiful city of Seattle, State of Wash­ington and enjoying the fraternal relations started sixty years ago. We must give thanks to the Almighty Father for the progress we have made. Our Grand Lodge, on this our 60th anniversary, should pause for a moment of respect, during our deliber­ations, for those faithful brothers who from 1903 through today have left the fruit of their labors for our enjoyment. Our Grand Ledge today has twenty lodges with a total membership of 945 plus approximately 800 members in our other affiliated bodies.

NECROLOGY

Brethren, here we are again reminded of another instance of the uncertainty of life and the vanity of all pursuits. The last offices paid to those who have been touched by the Grim Reaper are useful as lectures to the living. From them we are to derive instruction and we must consider every solemnity as a summons to prepare for our approaching dissolution. Notwithstanding the various mementos of mortality with which we daily meet: notwithstanding death has established its empire over all the works of nature; yet through some unaccountable infatuation we forget that we are born to die; we go from one design to another, add hope to hope, and layout plans for many years, till we are suddenly alarmed at the news that one of our friends or a loved one has passed, when we least expected it, and at the hour which we probably concluded to be the meridian of the individuals life. Let us then, brothers, while in this state of existence, support with propriety the character of our profession as Masons, advert to the nature of our solemn ties and pursue with assiduity the sacred tenets of our order. Our brothers are only resting until that tomorrow, to meet us by that celestial stream beneath the evergreen free, to spend our vacation with our Heavenly Father, whose goodness and power know no bounds.

As we come together in this annual grand communication, upon my shoulders falls the great responsibility of reporting to you my activities for the 1962 - 63 Masonic year. It is impossible to express my gratitude in words for the opportunity to serve you. May I welcome each of you to this session and say thank you for the confidence reposed in me.

My first concern is for our country and for my people in the world situation of today. This year has brought sorrow to every American who believes in his government and the Constitution. Out of all the things that have transpired during the years in our struggle for that which rightfully belongs to us, and those who believe that they have been unfair to our people, the death of Medgar Evers and the Mail Carrier are at the top of all disgraceful things here in the so-called “Land of the Free and Home of the Brave.”  Who are free and who is brave? To shoot a man in the back is really brave.  To resort to violence to keep a race from expressing its distaste for injustice under a free society only proves that our land is not free.  Education is needed more than we realize in all races. The President of our United should issue a Proclamation forbidding the Star Spangled Banner to be sung in our country until the twenty million Americans who ore now engaged in a battle for their civil rights, denied them by customs, practices and state laws, even though these acts violate our Constitution, are given their equal rights.

Brethren, our loyalty are being tested. Our homes are going through very dangerous periods.  Be ever aware of the two aforementioned patriots whose lives were snuffed out by the wicked.  Pressure will be brought to bear on your jobs right here in the State of Washington.  Our people are at the cross roads. We must choose between our own pride or our freedom. Which road do you choose?

There is a passage in the Bible that I want each of you to read and use as a guide for the future in our struggle for equal opportunity here in God’s world: Do you remember the determined expression of Jacob one night as he grappled with the problem of reconciliation with his brother Esau?  He spent a sleepless night turning and tossing with matters that perplexed him so much. He found himself in contest with a man whom he did not recognize. So, through the long hours of the night, nearing the break of day, this stranger said to him, let me go.  To this Jacob replied, “. . .I will not let thee go except thou bless roe. ‘(Genesis 32:36) The racial problems of today are the things that try our souls, our faith and our willingness to continue forward with the fight against the evils that tend to take away the small amount of freedom we now have.  They increase the road—blocks to any future advancement towards our present goals of total, equal opportunity for all people of all races, under our stars and stripes, which was paid for with the blood of men of all colors on the battlefields.

We must be willing to sacrifice for the cause of justice for our people. The struggle is now on throughout the world for justice, yet we must face our own problem of disunity. We are not pooling our own resources for strength. We are not forming corporations where we can see that our people can be employed. We are ‘not taking the advantage of many of the opportunities at our own front door. We do not support our people who are in business enough so that they may expand and employ others. Brothers, this should be called to the attention of every man of color in our communities immediately. Many of our religious leaders are opposed to this statement:

Money is powerful and Negroes need more money to obtain more power. Therefore we must dedicate our lives to God, to supporting our own people in business, to spending our money where we work and develop more of our small businesses to the point of giving better services to the public.

We must exhibit our best everyday, everywhere we go - - whether at work or at recreation. We must as Masons remind ourselves that our chief concern is to show by our actions and prove to the nation and to the world that we are a people with high ideals: that we believe in the honesty of men: that we believe in our government and pledge to it our loyal support; and we believe a well-mannered, disciplined segment of the community will stand steadfast a the principles. We must hold high these ideals among men of all races, black or white; brown or yellow: whether they live on a hillside in the country, on boule­vards or back streets, restricted or reserved areas or in the nation’s capitol. Our task, by the Grace of God, can be completed if we don’t give up. These extremists in our country are fighting for only two of the four freedoms:

Freedom without any restrictions for the white man and a community with well—deciphered restrictions for Negroes. This would mean Unqualified liberty for the white and stringtied liberty for Negroes and other minorities. Are you, my brothers, ready to walk with dignity or to leave things as they are?

FOREIGN RELATIONS

We deeply regret to report that P.G.M. W. Vernon Scott broke the chain of good fraternal relations by resigning in mid—year as C.C. of F.C.  He did not give a report to the office of Grand Master, as requested, of his activities up-to-dote. This resulted in a loss of time while trying to find someone to replace him.  Several brothers were contacted but refused.  We tried to avoid breaking our laws, as stated in our Code, forbidding a grand lodge officer from holding more than one office at a time. Finally, however, our faithful D.G.M. S.J. Lake accepted the appoint­ment and did a most outstanding job. My thanks and appreciations go to R.W. Brother Lake.

YOUTH MOVEMENT

We are proud to report that, under the very able leadership of Worshipful Master Jasper Perry, of Cassia Lodge #5, Tacoma. Washington, we have a new Knights of Pythagoras Council of twenty—two (22) or more boys.   R.W. Ira Simons, G.J.W., must also be complimented for his hard work in this department as its State Director.  We hail the present movement and progress.

DIRECTOR OF SCHOLARSHIPS

Director Robert E. Colbert, assisted by R. W. Louis P. Solomon, G. Sect, and our Grand Lodge Attorney, Herbert M. Stephens, is doing an excellent job and has prepared a most outstanding report for you.

Guidance Clinics

Director George Jorden, our Grand Treasurer, was unable to function this year because the program was not held.

State Director of Youth

R.W. Albert L. Colvin, who is in charge of our entire Youth Department, is a very able leader and any progress made cannot be without approval of the Grand Director. Every brother should give more support to this department.

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC RELATIONS

One of my deepest regrets, brothers, was the loss of R.W. W.B. Foster, a dedicated Mason. He meant more to this grand lodge and to the community than many of you will ever understand or know. The program started by him would, as it has done, put us in a top dignified position. It would eventually bring all of us much closer through communication between bodies. The Grand Master wishes to state here, for future records, that he was deeply hurt. It is our plan that the next issue of The Square be dedicated to this honorable brother and we know by The Square that W.B. Foster will be long remembered. R.W. Robert E. Colbert, Acting Direc­tor, will give a complete report.

AFFILIATED BODIES

I want to take this opportunity to thank the Shrine and Consistorial Bodies for their invitations and report that perfect peace and harmony prevail.

OUR CONCORDANT BODIES - LADIES

As in the past many invitations were extended, greetings received and dinners and special celebrations enjoyed during this Masonic year with such bodies as the Heroines of Jericho, Daughters of Isis and several of the chapters of the Order of Eastern Star.  Thanks to all of them.

SPECIAL EVENT

On February 17, 1963 at 4:30 p.m., The Committee of Ten, composed of Russell S. Gideon, lsiah Simon, George Jorden, Louis R. Solomon, Charles P. Huey, James F. Lockhart, Glenwood Buxton, Ira Simons, E.A. Douglas and Hilliard Hood, all top executives of our Grand Lodge, really surprised me with an Appreciation Dinner in my honor. Even though several slips of the tongue gave clues I really didn’t realize what was going on until after the affair. To my surprise the place was overcrowded with close friends and associates. Unfortunately they forgot to bring the guest book and I have been unable to thank each one personally. I would like to list here those on the program. Our own Grand Treasurer, Brother George Jorden, Edwin T. Pratt representing the Urban League, Meredith Mathews representing the Y.M.C.A., Representative Sam Smith, Mayor Gordon S. Clinton, Prosecuting Attorney Charles Carroll, Attorney Ben Maslan and our faithful Grand Secretary, Louis R. Solomon. Many dignitaries graced the head table including our Worthy Grand Matron and Worthy Grand Patron.

I shall always cherish that day as one of the greatest in my life and must always appreciate the “Great Committee of Ten “.  Again many, many thanks to them and to all who attended.

UNITED SUPREME COUNCIL

A. A. Scottish Rite of Freemasonry

Northern Jurisdiction, Inc.

Ill. E.A. Douglas, Ill. Russell S. Gideon, Deputy and your Grand Master attended the annual session of the United Supreme Council which was held in Phil­adelphia last May.

Ill. Gideon and III. Douglas made brief comments on our victory against bogus masons in our jurisdiction. Their remarks were most outstanding. Your Grand Master brought greetings and the thanks of the jurisdiction to the Sovereign Grand Commander and the Supreme Council for their great contribution to our victory. Special tribute was made to the Sovereign Grand Commander and informed him how the Superior Court Judge complimented him and his work as most outstanding and appre­ciated his excellent qualifications.

GRAND MASTERS CONFERENCE

On May 13, 1963, while at lunch, to my great surprise a brilliant young man whom I had never seen found me through a classmate, Ill. James C. Taylor. He said that he had driven from Mt. Holly, N. J. just to see me. My name, he con­tinued, is John E. Peterson. I was so overwhelmed that he wasn’t able to say anymore. This was the highlight of my trip. He was the former D.D.G.M. in District #7, now District #6 in the Far East.  We had a wonderful visit with him in his home in Mt. Holly. I have appointed him our special representative and he has brought personal greetings in several jurisdictions for us. Our visit to Mt. Holly was on May 14. We found his lovely wife to be a sister. We were then surprised with the presence of a very faithful brother, Brother Tatum, who deserves much credit for carrying the Far East when we were without any past masters there. He has never been a past master but he filled the role of master and district deputy for us. We met another brother who has dropped out but he promised us he would be back soon. We had the pleasure of being accompanied back to Philadelphia by III. James C. Taylor after an evening and a night.

On May 15 we journeyed to Washington. D.C. where we spent the night at the Commodore Hotel. We were visited by Brother Eng of Washington, D.C. and our own Brother Garland Short, formerly of Seattle. Later that evening we had dinner with my brother-in-law.

On May 16 Brother Garland Short took us out for breakfast in Washington and then drove us to Baltimore, Maryland to the Baltimore Hotel. We arrived at the Masonic Temple at noon and had a delightful dinner. We were greeted by grand masters and other executives in a very hospitable manner. We were again surprised to see Grand Master Freddie B. Williams, of Oregon, and we spent the full time together.

One of the highlights of the evening was the report of the Commission on Clandestine Masonry. Hon. Amos T. Hall gave a most outstanding report in detail. He was given a standing ovation for the report. He is a very capable leader and the whole commission is doing a magnificent job.

Hon. Booker T. Alexander, Grand Master of Michigan, aroused the conference as to the need for funds to carry on against bogus groups. These groups are operating throughout the country cheating and defrauding the public. Grand Master Morley of Nassau, Bahamas made a strong plea for help because the bogus groups are flooding his jurisdiction. The chairman of the Finance Committee, Grand Master James C. Gilliam of Mississippi, called each grand master and representative to support a nation—wide campaign for funds for this program.

Your Grand Master addressed the conference and gave highlights of our suit pointing out the agitation of new groups, cost of our suits, size of the group fight­ing our group, the time and effort spent by some members of our Commission in pre­paring our case, the unity among the members of our Commission and above all the great contribution of G.M. Amos T. Hall. He spent much time and effort staying up nearly all night at times, arising early in the morning, to work on our case. Our attorney, Ben A. Maslan termed him one of the greatest attorneys he had ever worked with. Our thanks to G.M. Hail, who has pledged his support to the finish of our fight even if he has to pay his own fare to travel here to help us. I made it clear that he did not get any pay for his many trips and services. I also pointed out that other grand masters had visited and spent time with me and had given advice and help, as follows: The late G. M. John Wesley Dobbs of Georgia, G.M. O. E. Vanderburg of Illinois, G.M.  J.T. Maxey of Texas and G.M. P.G. Porter of Kansas, as well as several past grand masters and other high masonic officials.

On May 17 a special meeting of the work shop participants was held. This day was spent in work shops and reports from the same.

GRAND MASTERS WORK SHOP

G.M. X. L.  Neal, Georgia, presiding:  G. M. Johnny Allen, Washington, recording.

Subject: “What can we do to increase attendance in lodges.”

  by G. M. Walter C. Taylor, California

  Discussion leader: G.M. Leory Fitch, Connecticut.

Our immediate goal is to recommend ways and means for increasing attendance in our Lodges.  To create interest and attendance must include:

1.      Our brother’s vocation and avocation, outside interests and hobbies.

a.            Invite our business and professional men to speak on selected subjects.

2.      Family participation activities creates interest and builds attendance.

3.      Community projects, educational, economic, youth, religious, social and political activities for community betterment, will create interest and build attendance.

4.      Television: Every Lodge Hall should have a television set so that on nights of national events, which come on in that unholy hour”, just prior to the lodges’ meeting, make possible for member to go to lodge and see his special T. V. program and still he on time for the meeting. Yes, tele­vision is competitive and from time to time its program may interfere with attendance.

5.      Friendliness: An atmosphere of friendliness must be an integral part of the Master’s program, always make each brother feel welcome, learn his name, shake his hand, be friendly and establish that strong bond of friend­ship, brother to brother, without which no lodge can survive.

6.      Efficiency, in the conducting of business and proficiency in our degree work, as we extol those beautiful virtues of Freemasonry, builds attend­ance. The lodge must open on time and close early. Be business—like in oIl our undertakings.

7.      Car pools, too, help to build attendance. Masters should make certain those brethren in need of transportation as a means of regular attendance are provided for.

Subject:     “What can be done to interest more young men in Masonry” - G.M. John L. McHie, Jr. of Minnesota.

Several points of interest were given by G.M. McHie. Special note: The main speaker did not attend and G. M. McHie was only substituting. He should have been the discussion leader. Most of this discussion was on youth. More than half of those present spoke. Everyone felt that, through our youth programs, young men can be reached. G.M. John O. Lewis repeatedly over the years has raised the question of how to reach someone to get his membership when he has not asked you about membership. He feels that our interpretation of you cannot ask a friend to join the fraternity has been misinterpreted and gave us many points of approach to the friend. His remarks were well received and accepted by all as expert advice.

Subject:           “Role of P. H. Grand Master in the matter of recognition” — by G.M. Clement Isaacs of Massachusetts.

Discussion leader, G.M.  O. E. Vanderburg of Illinois.

Highlights of G.M. lsaacs discussion are as follows:

In these days of desegregation, integration and the many other facets pertain­ing to the intermingling of ethnic groups, the Prince Hall Mason is not excluded from this complex problem. The Prince Hall Mason is constantly being asked by those well meaning Masons of the other group, “When are they going to recognize you people 7’ or “Why can’t we do something about this situation?“

These well meaning admirers of Prince Hall Masons are sincere in their queries; however, they are too few numerically to do us any apparent material value other than to keep the pot boiling in our behalf within their own circles.

We should not be cynical in our thoughts or actions towards these individuals for there is a possibility that through them we may be able to establish a transversal that will cut those parallel lines we are at present destined to adhere to. There must be a genuineness of purpose in their motives, nevertheless the rule and not the exception to the rule is what we are primarily concerned with.

It is with this thought in mind that I shall attempt to present the very important rule that the Prince Hall Grand Master plays in the matter of recognition.

In order to approach this problem with a clear and concise understanding let us first define the words most expressive of the situation. From that eminent aid to the ignorant — the dictionary — we find “recognition” defined as follows:

In carrying out his role as Grand Master of Prince Hall Mason, the Grand Master plays a very important part in the exemplar manner in which he conducts himself. To demand respect and recognition we must of necessity respect ourselves. The Grand Master should he dignified in overall appearance and action. The minutest detail as to his demeanor, behavior and manners should never be neglected. I do not infer that one should be “a hat in hand, bowing and scraping individual” but rather one who can look the world in the eye without fear or retribution.  In general the respect for the body as a whale is engendered by the respect accorded its leader.

It has been my personal pleasure to speak upon invitation to numerous “Supper or Table Lodges” and “Square and Compass Clubs” of the other group. At all of these gatherings a well prepared talk of approximately 30 minutes is made. The following general outline covering the various facets of Prince Hall Masonry are presented:

1.         A brief historical presentation on the life of Prince Hall.

2.         The formation of African Lodge #459

3.         The growth and extend of the Prince Hall family.

4.         “Recognition” versus “acknowledgment”. Here the objectives of their groups to prove Prince Hall Illegitimate and the ultimate advancement of the Parallel Line Doctrine.

5.         Clandestine Masonry as it exists and how they can assist us in combating it.

In summation the role of the Prince Hall Grand Master, particularly with regard to recognition presents itself in many ways. It should not be lightly taken nor should it be shunned or avoided. To seek the office for honors only, with no desire to contribute to the overall advancement, does nothing for the fraternity.

Many points brought out regarding a grand master were:

1.         His knowledge of the duties of a grand master.

2.         Does he realize the powers and authority of his office?

3.         He must realize his position as executive head of his jurisdiction and must not be put in a subordinate position at any time, without his own consent.

4.         Does he have the time to give the office justice or does he want it for the honor?

5.         He must administer the affairs efficiently: Be prompt, select qualified deputies, be impartial and travel both through his jurisdiction and abroad.

Our Grand Lecturer, R.W. E A. Douglas, must be complimented for his traveling to the conference at his own expense and his participation in the Grand Lecturers Workshop.

The address given by G.M. Amos T. Hall on the subject, “Masonry’s Obli­gation to Maintain True Americanism“, brought everyone to their feet and it was the best I have ever heard.  The standing ovation lasted over five minutes.

G.M. Porter, our Supreme Master Knight, showed movies of youth activities which pointed up the fact that the Knights of Pythagoras movement is growing.

COMMISSION ON CLANDESTINE MASONRY

My personal feelings about the splendid work of this Commission is such that I can not give them justice in the amount of time and space here allotted. They will give a complete report. My recommendation will point up my feelings. Their record, since their appointment in 1959, follows:

                                                          Meetings attended      Days spent in court

V. Vernon Scott, PGM, Chrman.                   19                                 8

George Jorden, Co-Chrman.                         51                                18

Louis P. Solomon, Sect.                                 50                               18

Russell S. Gideon                                           15                                3

H. Hood                                                           21                                11

Theodore Spearman                                       15                                8

B. A. Douglas                                                  18                                11

Joseph I. Staton                                              9                                  2

Visits to Attorney’s office — (Private or with Grand Secretary)

George Jorden                                                19

Louis R. Solomon                                           16

Russell S. Gideon                                           3

This is the record kept by me for your information. These brothers deserve more than I can give them in praise. Please adopt my recommendation.

STATE OF THE CRAFT

Brethren, for four years we have worked together to make our jurisdiction reach its highest potentials. Today our records will show the following: (all figures are approximates).

1.         1959: - 730 members - on record at my election.

2.         1959 — 60: 130 members went to the Oregon Jurisdiction when they farmed their own grand lodge. I was unaware that they were going to leave and form their own jurisdiction until it was announced at our jurisdictional past masters meeting.

3.         1959: 600 members left after the lost.

4.         1959 - 63: We have lost 40 members by death.

5.         We lost five lodges, four to Oregon and one in Wenatchee went defunct.

6.         Today we have 19 chartered lodges, all reported up to day. We have re­vived one lodge making a total of 20 lodges.

7.         Our membership today is 945. Many applications are waiting for comple­tion. This is a net gain of 385 members in the four year period — — almost 100 per cent.

8.         Our Grand Jurisdiction has spent much of our reserved funds but I am proud to say that they were investments that have been most profitable both numerically and financially.

9.         Our Worshipful Masters and Past Masters Conference, January 26, 1963, has reflected in this year’s program and our masters are to be complimented.

10.     Not enough can be said about our lodges in the Far East: Cherry Blossom #42, Eureka #41 and Toni #46. Their masters, officers and members, P.D.D.G.M. John E. Peterson and our faithful present D.D.G.M. James F. Thompson are to be highly praised for a job well done.

All decisions, proclamations, directives, advice mandates or other authority or power of this office, during the year have been used for the advancement of our jurisdiction and Prince Hall Masonry everywhere. Most of all they were used to give our people the opportunity to walk with dignity.

My personal reflections on the State of the Craft must give credit to all of the brothers who paid $12.00 for our victory: to the masters who collected it; and to those members of the Commission whose contribution was illustrated in my record of attendance given above. Our Grand Lodge is in its healthiest state in the history of our jurisdiction. The future looks most Promising.

RECOMMENDATIONS

I offer the following recommendations for your consideration:

1.         That we appoint a special committee called the “Victory Celebration Committee”, to plan a program to celebrate our victory against bogus  masonry.

2.         That we set either December 14 or December 21, 1963 for this affair.

3.         That all Masonic bodies be notified to keep this date open.

4.         That all Prince Hall bodies be invited to hold public installations on this day, jointly with the celebration.

5.         That a fund of $250.00 be allowed the Victory Celebration Committee.

6.         That the Commission on Clandestine Masonry arrange to have the Hon. Amos T. Hall present at this celebration.

7.         That special tributes be paid to the members of our Clandestine Commission based on their record as quoted above.

            That special tribute be paid to:

a.         G.M. Amos T. Hall.

b.         Hon. Walter H. Steffey, PGM, Grand Lodge of Washington, F. & A. M. (white).

c.         Our Attorney Ben A. Maslan.

d.         That each Prince Hall Masonic body in our jurisdiction, regard­less of location or title, be invited to support this program.

8.         The William H. Upton Lodge, F. & A. M. , now defunct, appearing in our records as Lodge #11, formerly located at Lewiston, Montana, ceased operating many years ago. Due to the economic conditions in that area at that time our brothers had to seek employment elsewhere. I therefore recommend that William H. Upton Lodge #11, F. & A. M. be relocated in Walla Walla, Washington and that the charter be reissued to the brothers initiated on June 8, 1963 in city of Walla Walla, Washington and that a supplement be attached to the reissued charter showing the brothers afore­mentioned and that the $25.00 fee has already been paid to the Grand Lodge to cover all costs involved.

9.         That a special study be made of our Masonic Relief Deportment to deter­mine if it is any possible danger to our financial system under the present system of operation.

10.     That the Grand Lodge include our National Urban League in our public relations program. Note: Those listed now are the N.A.A.C.P., the Seattle Urban League, the Y.M.C.A., Washington Citizens Committee for Civil Rights Legislation.

11.     That our contribution to help defray the expenses of the Grand Masters Conference be 550.00, to be paid not later than February 15, 1964.

12.     That we contribute $190.00, or .20 per brother, to the Commission on Clandestine Masonry of the Grand Masters Conference to help in our fight nationally.

13.     That we request the Governor of the State of Washington to issue a pro­clamation declaring Prince Hall Day and Americanism Day, at which time we must pledge our allegiance to our country and honor our first Grand Master, Prince Hall. That this date be set by the Grand Master.

14.     That our Grand Lodge begin in 1964 to use the printed ballot for its annual election.

15.     That future grand elections be held as follows:

a.      Nominations for all elected offices be made on the second day of the annual communication.

b.      That each brother nominated have the privilege to appoint an election judge.

c.      That the ballots be issued on the morning of the third day in open grand lodge.

d.      That should any brother fail to receive the majority of the votes casted a runoff election must be held between the two brothers receiving the highest number of votes.

e.      That there be two (2) official election judges, appointed by the Grand Master, who must announce the results of all votes casted.

16.     That the Finance Committee rectify an oversight made last year in regards to the Grand Treasurer’s token because when consideration is given the Grand Secretary, always the Treasurer’s token should be considered.

CONCLUSION

During this Masonic year, 1962—1963, I have stated that I would decline re­-nomination to this high and most honored office, therefore, today, I return to you the Crown of Power and the Gavel of Authority, untarnished, as it was received from you four years ago.  Because of my love for Masonry, my respect for you and my dedication to the betterment of my race I cannot say I am tired. A tired person stops to rest but a dedicated person passes to that great beyond to rest.

If I should attempt to name everyone who has made a contribution to help me during my tenure as Grand Master it certainly would be too long a list. However I know that you will permit me to say a special thanks to my past masters, officers and brothers of my lodge who answered every call I made to them. They stayed very close to me in every way to help. To all past masters, worshipful masters and brothers there is nothing I can say but thank you for your prayers and moral support.

I would like you to know how I feel in the following poem, written by P.D.D.G.M. John F. Peterson, District #6 of our jurisdiction:

A MASON’S CODE OF CONDUCT

I am a Free Mason,

I serve the fraternity to protect its constitution.

I am prepared to give my life in its defense.

I will fight clandestine masonry with all my might.

If I am elected to an office, I will support my lodge with

all my strength.

I will resist by all means the temptation to do evil to

my fellowman.

I shall visit the sick and help the destitute.

I will attend all communications of my lodge if I am

within the limits of its cable tow.

I will never forget that I am a Freemason, responsible

for my actions and dedicated to the principles which

made me free.

I will trust in God, in my country and in the fraternity.

By the Grace of God, his goodness and forgiveness, we have reached 60 years. If there were any failures or errors in the last four of those 60 I apologize for them myself because you, my staff, made none. The whole success of our Grand Lodge is the results of your efforts, not mine. With a deep and sincere feeling of gratitude and humility I say again thank you for everything and may the blessing of heaven be upon each of you forever.

Faithfully submitted,

Johnny Allen