MASONRY IN NORTH DAKOTA
Chapter 13
LODGES CHARTERED FROM 1911—1915
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The splendid history of Ambrose Lodge No. 97, written by W.'. Brother William S. Bailard, W.'. M.'. in 1953 and secretary from 1954-1960, and from which this account is taken, reads like the Book of Job in the Holy Bible. The example of patience and courage displayed by its membership, with smiling faces, over the years, in spite of the adverse forces of nature being turned against them, is one for future generations to venerate and follow. Located in the very northwest corner of North Dakota, shut in by Saskatchewan on the north, by Montana on the west, and by rolling prairies to the south and east; subject to drought, fire, wind and decreasing population; Ambrose and Masonry have faced a seemingly unconquerable situation, year by year. Yet these adversities have never conquered them and the Masons of North Dakota stand humbly before them.
It was on April 19, 1910, that a group of Master Masons met in Ambrose and discussed the possibility of organizing a Masonic lodge at home, instead of going sixty miles to Portal, and they were quick to act. A petition for dispensation was circulated, Portal Lodge No. 84 was secured as sponsor, tentative officers were selected and on June 28, 1910, the officers appeared before Portal lodge, proved their proficiency in the ritual and secured the necessary recommendation for instituting the lodge.
A dispensation for Ambrose Lodge U.'. D.'. was granted September 3, 1910, by M.'. W.'. John J. Hull, Grand Master, naming the following principal officers: W.'. M.'. Horace O. Van Der Vort; S.'. W.'. William J. Bruchman; J.'. W.'. Clayton E. Brace; Treasurer Martin O. Burreson; and Secretary S. George White.
In the meantime lodge quarters had been secured in the Miller hall at $6.00 per month for two meetings and at $8.00 per month for four meetings. This offer was accepted for three months, with option of renewal. The lodge met during the summer months for the study of the ritual and for planning the work ahead. The first stated communication was held October 14, 1910, at which the newly appointed officers took their stations; the dispensation was read; new by-laws were adopted; and two petitions for the degrees were received and referred to committees. Another well advised motion was carried: "that a committee be appointed to prepare a historical account of the organization of this lodge and same to be kept in the archives of the lodge." That "historical account" lies before us today. Would that future generations might take heed!
The charter was granted June 28, 1911, by the Grand Lodge of North Dakota to Ambrose Lodge No. 97, with twenty charter members, and was signed by M.'. W.'. Robert Morrison, Grand Master. The lodge was constituted and the officers were installed by Grand Master Morrison on August 22, 1911. While working under dispensation the lodge had raised six candidates. By 1921 the membership had jumped to 84; by 1931, it was 88; by 1941, the depression and drought had brought it down to 57; by 1951, it was up to 61; and by 1961, it had fallen back to 51; a seemingly hopeless task.
To indicate the struggle for existence, even in the early days, it is interesting to note that on May 13, 1914, the Masons of Crosby, a few miles to the east, came to Ambrose for sponsorship which was granted with this reservation: "That the brethren of Crosby have satisfied this lodge of their proficiency in the ritual; but because we feel that the establishment of a lodge at Crosby would injure this lodge by curtailing our fertile territory, we do not feel that in justice to ourselves we can recommend the establishment of a lodge at Crosby." The charter was granted and today Crosby Lodge No. 108 has a membership of ninety, which more than justifies its establishment.
Up until 1914 Ambrose lodge had continued to meet in Miller's hall, but on December 16, 1914, it was voted to build its own building at the extreme end of the main street, and the year of 1915 was devoted to this purpose. The walls are of brick, with full basement, and the work was done by the members at a total cost, mostly for material, of S3.185.00. The money was furnished, $1,600.00 by the bank, the balance by the members, and they were many years in paying it off. The building was dedicated June 8, 1916, at a grand ceremony at which Grand Master Harry Lord and Grand Secretary Walter L. Stockwell were present and took charge for the Grand Lodge. M.'. W.'. Brother Stockwell gave one of his finest addresses on this occasion.
In the following summer a severe wind blew out the north wall of the temple and the lodge found itself without wind insurance. It developed that the ends of the wall had not been properly anchored in building, so a regular bricklayer was engaged and the wall was replaced at the expense of the lodge. There must have been a New England Yankee in the lodge, because it immediately placed wind insurance on the building, and later when the south wall blew out for the same reason, it was replaced by the insurance company.
June 22, 1917, Ambrose Chapter No. 84, Order of the Eastern Star, was founded and prospered for many years, but in a small town like Ambrose, with only one Protestant Church and that one very strict, clashes in belief were bound to occur and in 1958, the Star disbanded for the sake of harmony, as "the church must go on."
Many other things have happened over the years; disastrous fires in the business section causing losses which have not been replaced: never sufficient moisture for abundant crops and many complete failures; families moving away and no replacements; a county seat town within six miles always cutting in on business, church and lodge. A discouraging situation, but one met with courage and determination. God bless them all.
Just a word about a few of Ambrose lodge's outstanding men: W.'. Brothers Horace O. Van Der Vort, first W.'. M.'. in 1911; S. George White, W.'. M.'. in 1913 and 1914; Gilles Bailard — a standby — W.'. M.'. in 1918, from 1921-1923, 1934 and 1937; Vincent Gilloley, U. S. Customs Collector for many years, W.'. M.'. in 1925 and 1935, and chairman of the Grand Lodge Credentials Committee for many years; Fred S. Mc-Dougall, W.'. M.'. in 1940 and 1941; Oscar A. Drews, W.'. M.'. in 1942 and 1943; Roy Wigness, W.'. M.'. from 1945-1947 and in 1949; George M. Knutson, W.'. M.'. in 1950 and secretary from 1950-1953; Archie Thompte. W.'. M.'. in 1951 and 1952; William S. Bailard, son of Gilles Bailard, W.'. M.'. in 1953 and secretary from 1954-1960; Harry A. Miller, teacher, farmer, business man and W.'. M.'. in 1958-59; George E. Ouse, W.'. M.'. from 1959-1961; and finally William S. Bailard, Jr. — son of the late William S. Bailard — W.'. M.'. in 1961-62.
Do you ask why Ambrose Lodge No. 97 keeps on going?
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Ever since Martin Luther nailed his "Theses" to the cathedral door in Wittenberg, Germany, in 1517, Freemasonry has steadfastly held against any and all persecutions, emanating from the hierarchy of the Vatican at Rome. Witness, Linton Lodge No. 98 at Linton, North Dakota.
Linton is situated south of Bismarck and east of the Missouri River, in the heart of a German Catholic community with parochial grade and high schools and a near majority in church, school and public matters: so much so that the Protestant element has been obliged to exert extreme caution in maintaining the equilibrium of the community, and in this Linton Lodge has played a noble part.
The fact that no other Masonic lodges existed in North Dakota in 1910 between Jamestown on the east, Bismarck on the west and Ellendale and the South Dakota state line on the south, a section one hundred miles square, indicates that this was not fruitful Masonic territory; and such has been the case. However, the Masons at Linton firmly believed that Masonry had SL mission to perform and they went about it thoroughly and well.
Their petition for dispensation to institute Linton Lodge U.'. D.'. was circulated in the summer of 1910 and on September 5, 1910, they proved their proficiency in the ritual and received a recommendation for a dispensation, from Bismarck Lodge No. 5, sixty-five miles to the northwest, their sponsoring lodge. The dispensation was granted September 16. 1910, by M.'. W.'. John J. Hull, Grand Master, who designated the following principal officers: W.'. M.'. Edward Braddock; S.'. W.'. S. John Hagg; J.'. W.'. William O. Irwin; Treasurer Albert N. Junge; and Secretary Henry H. Hanson.
The first stated communication was held in suitable rooms above the drug store on Main Street September 27, 1910; the appointed officers took their stations; the dispensation was read; and the necessary committees were appointed; but it was not until the second stated communication of the lodge on October 11, 1910, that the first petition for degrees was received and referred to a committee. All this indicated the care and precaution with which the brethren proceeded before embarking on any great and important undertaking, a notable characteristic of Linton lodge throughout the years. During its entire period under dispensation work in the degrees was steady but seldom on more than one or two candidates, indicating the importance of every step they took. It is also significant that there were very few rejections.
The charter was granted June 28, 1911, by the Grand Lodge of North Dakota to Linton Lodge No. 98 of Linton, twenty-two charter members were named and it was signed by M.'. W.'. Robert Morrison, Grand Master. The lodge was constituted and the officers were installed by Grand Master Morrison, on July 20, 1911.
The lodge continued to grow, adding seventeen to its membership the first year. By 1921 it had reached 69; in 1931—110; in 1941. back to 73; in 1951—82; and in 1961, up to 104.
Linton Lodge continued to meet over the drug store until 1939 when it moved to the upper floor of the city hall, where it remained until April 9, 1957. The reason for this removal was the completion and dedication of a beautiful new temple, which had been in process of planning and building since 1954. It was carefully planned, all angles having been considered, as has always been the case in this lodge, and the work moved forward according to schedule. The year 1956 was given over to building and the members gave liberally of time and money for this purpose. For instance, W.'. Brother Ray K. Juhola, W.'. M.'. in 1956. who was a heating, plumbing and electric contractor, furnished time and materials at cost; W.'. Brother Lloyd R. Unzelman, W.'. M.'. in. 1957, who was a woodwork finisher, installed all of the lovely mahogany finishing work personally, without cost to the lodge except for material. These are but examples of the contributions of many toward the work.
The temple was dedicated April 23, 1957, with M.'. W.'. Brothers James C. McCormick, Grand Master, Harold S. Pond, Grand Secretary, and many other Grand Officers in attendance. No specific project of Linton lodge has ever more deeply impressed certain elements in Linton than the successful completion of this temple. Now they know that Linton Lodge No. 98 is there to stay.
Another great occasion was celebrated April 12, 1960, when the lodge observed Past Masters' Night and personally honored Grand Master Ben G. Gustafson, their own past master. M.'. W.'. Brother Ben came to Linton in the early thirties as superintendent of schools and became a Mason in Linton Lodge April 25, 1933, and W.'. M.'. in 1937. He served as Grand Master in 1959-60. He still holds a membership in the lodge and was presented a life membership, at that party. Today, Ben says: "I became a man, at Linton."
The crowning celebration came on May 2, 1961, when Linton Lodge observed its fiftieth anniversary at its temple. W.'. M.'. Terry Lawler was in charge and Past District Deputy Grand Master George W. Cornog was master of ceremonies. M.'. W.'. Brothers Gordon L. Paxman, Grand Master, and Ben G. Gustafson, Past Grand Master, were present and gave excellent addresses. Also present, and a gifted speaker, was Worthy Grand Matron Gertrude Diehl of the Order of the Eastern Star. Several other Grand Officers of the Grand Lodge and Eastern Star participated. Fifty-year members of both groups were honored and fifty-year emblems were distributed. The dinner was served by Linton Chapter No. 67, O.E.S., and gold bound programs were souvenirs of the occasion.
There have been so many men who have served Linton Lodge so well through the years that we have chosen one to represent them all and all will agree that without him there would be no lodge at Linton today. In addition to Worshipful Masters Edward Braddock, William O. Irwin, Earl T. Atha, Francis B. Streeter, Harold E. Winchester, Ben G. Gustafson) Ben H. Barrett, John H. Haveman, Sylvester A. Beck, George W. Cornog, Bay K. Juhola, Lloyd R. Unzelman and Terry Lawler, it has had: W.'. Brother Earle H. Smith, who was one of the first petitioners, became a Master Mason September 26, 1911, was W.'. M.'. in 1928 and 1929, and has served the lodge as its secretary continuously from 1932-1962, and is still "going strong." On March 11, 1958, W.'. Brother Smith was awarded a life membership certificate; on September 26, 1961, he became a fifty-year mason; and in 1962, aged 81, was "Mr. Master Mason" of Linton Lodge No. 98.
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Dunseith Lodge No. 99, Dunseith
When the Grand Architect planned Dunseith Lodge No. 99 at Dunseith, North Dakota, little did its charter members know that they were to become the sponsors of a Protestant Church in their midst; that they were to stretch out the hand of charity to a great state sanitorium nearby; and that they were to assist in the establishment of an International Peace Garden between the United States and Canada which would become a symbol of "Peace on Earth" for all nations to follow.
Let us start at the beginning. The idea of organizing a Masonic lodge at Dunseith started early as it was on December 15, 1909, that W.'. Brother Joseph D. Eaton appeared before Tuscan Lodge No. 44 at Bottineau with a group of prospective officers; satisfied the sponsoring lodge of their proficiency in the ritual; and obtained the signatures of the W.'. M.'. and secretary to a recommendation for a dispensation to institute Dunseith Lodge U.'. D.'..
It was January 18, 1911, before the dispensation was granted by M.'. W.'. John J. Hull, Grand Master, to Dunseith Lodge U.'. D.'., designating the following principal officers: W.'. M.'. Joseph D. Eaton; S.'. W.'. Conrad I. F. Wagner; J.'. W.'. William F. Robertson; Treasurer Lafayette D. Gooler; and Secretary Calvin M. Wagner. The first stated communication of the new lodge was held February 6, 1911, in a hall for which it was agreed to pay a rental of $15.00 every three months. The appointive officers took their stations, necessary committees were appointed and nine petitions for the degrees were read and referred to committees. Seven of these, with two more, had been "raised" by November 16, 1911.
The charter was granted June 28, 1911, by the Grand Lodge of North Dakota to Dunseith Lodge No. 99 of Dunseith, naming twenty charter members, and was signed by M.'. W.'. Robert Morrison, Grand Master. On October 12, 1911, M.'. W.'. Brother Morrison constituted the lodge, delivered the charter and installed the officers.
On May 6, 1912, the lodge voted to erect a Protestant church building in Dunseith, which when completed, would house the lodge in the basement. Various enterprises were entered into to finance the project, such as a moving picture show, which netted over $2,000.00; an organization, called the Willing Workers, raised over $2,000.00; and Brother A. J. Horsman contributed at least $1,200.00 in electric wiring and painting. The building was completed April 11, 1927, at a cost of S12.465.5ti. not including contributed labor and is leased to the Methodist Church. In 1957 the organizations using the building contributed $1,604.25 for remodeling and repairs, and $230.00 for sidewalk. The building is well cared for and is providing much toward the spiritual, moral, cultural and social life of Dunseith.
In 1939 Dunseith lodge appointed a committee to visit the state tuberculosis sanitorium, located at nearby San Haven, at Christmas and Easter to distribute gifts and greetings to Masons and others in need of friendship and holiday cheer. Several other lodges have sent money to the lodge, which is carefully accounted for and used for this purpose. Up until 1961, a total of $1,319.79 has been received, of which $1,118.70 had been used. No single project is more appreciated than this.
It was in 1932 that the International Peace Garden was dedicated on the boundary between North Dakota and Manitoba, fifteen miles north of Dunseith. About twenty-three hundred acres had been set aside (by North Dakota, 888 acres and Manitoba, 1,451 acres). The land has been cultivated and landscaped with lakes, camping spots and picnic grounds. A "lodge" for public meetings has been built, a beautiful flower garden planted and a cairn — professing enduring peace — stands near the customs houses which are now located on the boundary.
M.'. W.'. John A. Stormon, W.'. M.'. in 1917 and Grand Master in 1946-47, and Henry Sunderland, W.'. M.'. in 1938, 1939, 1941 and 1942, and secretary since 1946, have been leaders in this splendid movement for years. The lodge has been solidly behind it all the way. It is at the "lodge" on the grounds, that the annual Masonic Peace Garden meeting, with Dunseith and Rolla Lodges as hosts and many Canadian brethren participating, has been held in June each year, as previously described in the story of Rolla lodge.
With an average membership of between 45 and 50 over the years Dunseith lodge goes its quiet way, accomplishing much good in the community; finding its enjoyment in service to others, and demonstrating the age old theory, that Masonry, properly applied, supplies its own reward.
It is in this spirit that the lodge went about the observance of its fiftieth anniversary on December 15, 1961. A beautiful gold cover program was prepared, containing the list of events for afternoon and evening: 1) Opening of lodge, reception of guests, honoring of 35-year and life members and remarks by guests; 2) Banquet, served by the Little Prairie Ladies Aid, musical numbers and anniversary address by M.'. W.'. J. Marlin Kyle, Grand Master; and 3) a modest and accurate history of the lodge containing a list of charter members, charter officers, present officers, present members and past masters, followed by the story of the community work they have all achieved so well.
This program has recorded for future generations to read, the story of one of North Dakota's truly great lodges.
Names are but appendages given to men, to single them out from others, and this should not be in an institution where "all service ranks the same and where there is no first nor last." We will call them only examples.
W.'. Brother Joseph D. Eaton was the first W.'. M.'. in 1911; William E. Hosmer was W.'. M.'. in 1913, 1916, 1918 and 1921; Lafayette D. Cooler was the first treasurer and W.'. M.'. in 1914. John A. Stormon was W.'. M.'. in 1917. He moved to Rolla in 1919 and became Grand Master in 1946-47. Roy E. Brooks was W.'. M.'. in 1922, 1926-27 and 1932-33; Henry Sunderland, United States Customs officer at Dunseith, was W.'. M.'. in 1938-39, and 1940-41, and secretary from 1946-62; William L. Wallbank was W.'. M.'. in 1947 and 1948; Ormal P. Kester was W.'. M.'. in 1951 and 1952; and Solomon Schneider was W.'. M.'. in 1955-57.
For lack of space we have omitted mention of the single term worshipful masters, as capable and devoted as many others but their records have combined with all to make a complete whole and Masonry has been enriched thereby.
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Much credit is due the Masons of Rolette for their pertinacity in working for the organization of a lodge in their home town during 1911 and 1912, located twenty-four miles from Rolla, twenty-seven miles from Willow City and twenty-eight miles from Rugby; at a time when travel was slow, distances long and population small.
Twenty-seven signatures were obtained on their petition for dispensation to institute Doric Lodge U.'. D.'. at Rolette before the required number could qualify. On March 7, 1911, the officers appeared before Rolla Lodge No. 66, as sponsor, and obtained a recommendation for institution of the lodge.
The dispensation was issued March 20, 1911, by M.'. W.'. John J. Hull, Grand Master, listing the following principal officers: W.'. M.'. Jay C. Edwards; S.'. W.'. Lester A. Benson; J.'. W.'. Albert L. Nelson; Treasurer Walter H. Love; and Secretary Albert E. Hurst.
The first stated communication of the lodge was held April 11, 1911, at which the newly appointed officers occupied their stations; the dispensation instituting the lodge was read; a committee on by-laws and a committee on hall rent was appointed; also five petitions for the degrees and one for affiliation were received and referred to committees. At the second stated communication, held April 25, 1911, the by-laws committee presented a set of by-laws, which were adopted with slight revision, and the committee on hall rent reported that the P. J. Myhre hall could be rented for $200.00 per year, including light and heat, with exclusive right to the hall. This was accepted and it is noted from the minutes one year later, that the same contract was renewed for $100.00 per year.
The charter of the lodge was not granted at the 1911 Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge as no opportunity had been afforded to confer the Master Mason degree in accordance with the Grand Lodge Code; hence, the Grand Lodge voted to extend the dispensation of Doric Lodge U.'. D.'. until June 1, 1912, which was attested by M.'. W.'. Robert Morrison, Grand Master, on June 28, 1911.
The lodge continued under dispensation for another year and was kept busy with degree work throughout the period. The charter was granted by the Grand Lodge of North Dakota to Doric Lodge No. 100 of Rolette, with twenty-two charter members, on June 10, 1912, and was signed by M.'. W.'. William E. Hoover, Grand Master. The lodge was constituted, the charter was delivered and the officers were installed by Grand Master Hoover on August 13, 1912.
Doric lodge has had a most remarkable history over the years; reaching a membership of 85 following World War I; it fell to 40 during the drought and depression of the "thirties"; but returned to 70 following World War II, which figure it has pretty well maintained. In recent years the lodge has purchased a business block on the main street, with lodge rooms above, which is self supporting and is kept in splendid repair. The lodge assists in community enterprises and is a distinct asset in church, school and public affairs. Masonry is well represented at Rolette.
Following are a few of the names of those who have been leaders in this fine work: Jay C. Edwards was the first W.'. M.'. in 1912; Frederick F. Rose was W.'. M.'. in 1915 and 1917; Joseph O. Hayhurst was W.'. M.'. in 1918, 1919 and 1924; Arthur Johnson was W.'. M.'. in 1930 and 1940; George Kittelson was W.'. M.'. in 1933 and 1944; C. Dale Anderson was secretary from 1944-1949; Cecil Johnson was W.'. M.'. in 1947, and secretary from 1953-1962; David L. Botton was W.'. M.'. in 1948 and District Deputy Grand Lecturer from 1960-1962; and Galen O. Olson was W.'. M.'. in 1956-57 and District Deputy Grand Master from 1958-1962.
It is a remarkable circumstance that in a period of fifty years, between 1912 and 1962, Doric Lodge No. 100 at Rolette has had only four men serving more than one term as worshipful master, which definitely proves that the members take their work seriously and each is more than willing to do his share.
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Under date of March 16, 1911, Hiram Lodge No. 20 at Page unanimously adopted the following resolution, as sponsor of Harrison Lodge U.'. D.'. at Erie: "Whereas, twenty Master Masons, in good standing at Erie have petitioned the Grand Master for a dispensation to start a lodge; and, whereas it is the sense of this lodge that said brothers are qualified, and, that the starting of a lodge at this point, will be to the best interest of Masonry;
"Be it Resolved that this lodge cordially endorse said Petition and pray the Grand Master to grant the same."
A scrutiny of the records of Hiram Lodge No. 20 at Page will reveal that on March 15. 1911, its membership was 65 and on March 16, 1911, it was 49, as 16 former members had taken their demits to become charter members of the new lodge at Erie. When a lodge votes unanimously to transfer nearly one-third of its entire membership to start another lodge, such action is Masonic brotherhood raised to the highest degree!
The dispensation for Harrison Lodge U.'. D.'. (named for the oldest charter member, G. Harrison Hill) was granted by M.'. W.'. John J. Hull, Grand Master, naming the following principal officers: W.'. M.'. Prank W. Delameter; S.'. W.'. Donald McLeod; J.'. W.'. Henry L. Hill; Treasurer Arthur A. Mosher; and Secretary James Beith. The dispensation was continued, June 28, 1911, until June 1, 1912, by authority of M.'. W.'. Robert Morrison, Grand Master.
The charter was granted June 19, 1912, by the Grand Lodge of North Dakota and was signed by M.'. W.'. Brother William E. Hoover, Grand Master. Twenty charter members were named. The lodge was constituted, the charter delivered and the officers installed July 18, 1912, by M.'. W.'. William E. Hoover, Grand Master; assisted by R.°. W.'. Frank A. Cousins, Senior Grand Warden; R.'. W.'. William Spriggs, Junior Grand Warden; and M.'. W.'. Walter L. Stockwell, Grand Secretary.
The first stated communication of the lodge after receiving its dispensation was held May 1, 1911, in the Odd Fellows hall in Erie which had been leased at $75.00 per year. The new officers took their stations, fees and dues were set, and three petitions for the degrees were received and referred to committees. The lodge kept itself busy for the first ten years, reaching a membership of 80, by 1921. By 1931 it was down to 63; by 1941 it was 43; by 1951 up to 55; and by 1961 down to 44. In a small community like Erie, there is no opportunity for expansion; the young people grow up and move away and no one takes their places; until it becomes a hopeless task to keep church and lodge afloat. The schools have consolidated into larger districts and will survive; evidently, the churches and lodges will have to do the same.
To one who is familiar with the "outpouring of self." which is the finest characteristic of a small town lodge, nothing can be more regrettable than the end of the era which is past. For fifty years. Harrison lodge has been the social center of Erie; here all its citizens could meet on common ground; here everyone's joys and sorrows were shared, and here the finer virtues of life found free expression. What will take its place? Only time can tell.
We attended the 50th Anniversary of this lodge, held in the high school, March 18, 1961. W.'. Brother Cledith N. Dows. W.'. M/. was in charge and W.'. Brother Wayne R. Kyser, Sr., P.'. M.'. and secretary assisted him. About forty of us, Masons and their ladies, sa: around the tables, partook of the delicious food and just visited together, after which we spoke to them. There is no finer communion than just that, and America is letting it slip away!
It is useless to list the names of all of Harrison Lodge's great men: just a few suffice — to us they all are great. Frank W. Delameter, the first W.'. M.'. in 1912, helped much in establishing the lodge; G. Harrison Hill, charter member, was so great they named the lodge for him; James Beith was the first secretary and served in 1911 and 1912; Ben J. Frederick was W.'. M.'. from 1917-1919; and Jacob Lehman was W.'. M.'. from 1920-1922.
Then came Wayne R. Kyser, Sr., the greatest of them all. He was made a Mason in 1917, was W.'. M.'. in 1924, 1925, 1943, 1946 and 1950 and secretary from 1958-62. Wayne R. Kyser, Jr., was W.'. M.'. in 1947 and 1951, and Bruce L. Kyser was W.'. M.'. in 1953 and 1954. Finally, Thomas M. Palmer was W.'. M.'. from 1955-57, Frederick Palmer, W.'. M.'. from 1957-59 and Cledith N. Dows, W.'. M.'. from 1959-61.
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Chancellor Walworth Lodge No. 102, Steele
The founding of Chancellor Walworth Lodge No. 67 at Steele in 1883 and the later founding of an entirely new lodge of the same name, but No. 102, at the same place in 1911, is an interesting story and deserves full mention here.
Brother John W. Carroll came to Dakota Territory in the early 1880's from New York City and settled at Steele. At that time he was a member of Knickerbocker Lodge No. 642 of New York and later became an honorary member of Chancellor Walworth Lodge No. 271 of New York City, which had been named for Brother (Chancellor) Reuben H. Walworth, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of New York and one of the founders of the lodge.
Brother Carroll immediately became interested in organizing a lodge at Steele to be known as Chancellor Walworth Lodge, in honor of the renowned Chief Justice in New York. The necessary signatures were obtained, the officers proved their proficiency in the ritual, and a dispensation was granted August 1, 1883, by M.'. W.'. Oscar J. Gifford, Grand Master, naming the following principal officers: W.'. M.'. John W. Car-roll; S.'. W.'. Andrew W. Eddy; J.'. W.'. William M. Price; Treasurer H. W. Taylor; and Secretary E. M. Wilcox.
The charter was granted June 11, 1885, by the Grand Lodge of Dakota meeting at Aberdeen, to Chancellor Walworth Lodge No. 67 of Steele, with twelve charter members, and was signed by M.'. W.'. William Blatt, Grand Master.
Only fragmentary minutes of the lodge have been preserved but from them and from Grand Lodge records, we know that Chancellor Walworth Lodge No. 271 of New York City presented the new lodge in Dakota with a set of officers' jewels, two middle chamber pillars and other paraphernalia, all of which were highly prized by the lodge. This property was surrendered with the charter and was kept at Fargo until after Chancellor Walworth Lodge No. 102 was chartered, when it was returned to Steele.
Crop failures, slow population increase and lack of interest beset the Steele area in the years that followed and the lodge ceased to function. On June 13, 1889, the charter and other properties were surrendered to the newly organized Grand Lodge of North Dakota, to await the chartering of a new Chancellor Walworth lodge which was to "carry on" for the old.
The story of Chancellor Walworth Lodge No. 67 cannot be left without a few words concerning its illustrious founder and first worshipful master, Colonel John Willis Carroll. He was born in New York City August 23, 1947, of English-Irish parentage, received his education at home, and in 1863 was at Gettysburg with the Union Army. After the war he was a member of President Lincoln's bodyguard but was off duty at the time the President was shot. Later he served with the coast guard along the Pacific and Asiatic coasts.
He was made a Mason in Knickerbocker Lodge No. 642 of New York February 25, 1873, and came to the Steele area, Dakota Territory, in the early 1880's, where he served as sheriff of Kidder county, county commissioner and chairman of the school board, at the same time founding Chancellor Walworth lodge. Ten years later he moved to Fargo where he engaged in the grain and feed business until 1903 when he was appointed commandant of the soldiers' home at Lisbon. Here he lived with his wife and two daughters for more than thirty years. His first wife passed away in 1919. He remarried in 1928 and his second wife survived him.
W.'. Brother Carroll was interested in all branches of Masonry and held memberships in the York Rite, of which he became Grand Commander, the Scottish Bite, the Shrine, the Red Cross of Constantine, and was an officer in the Grand Lodge of Dakota. He passed away March 3, 1942, at the age of 95, having been a Master Mason for nearly 70 years. Surely, Chancellor Walworth Lodge No. 67 was his memorial.
Then comes the sequel to the former story, that of Chancellor Walworth Lodge No. 102 at Steele, and what it may lack of the glamour of antiquity, it may supply in length of life and stability, qualities which "pay off when the chips are down."
Appreciation is accorded to W.'. Brother Edwin M. Pool, founder and first worshipful master of Chancellor Walworth Lodge No. 102, for the splendid history he has left of the early years of his lodge. In fact most of the remnants of the history of the preceding lodge were gathered by him, thus preserving the whole story for future generations to enjoy.
It was in January, 1911, that a group of Master Masons gathered at Steele to consider the possibility of establishing a lodge in their midst to be known as Chancellor Walworth Lodge. District Deputy Grand Master Hans R. Berndt of Bismarck was contacted, and with his assistance it was not long until twenty-seven signatures had been obtained to a petition for dispensation for a new lodge. On May 29, 1911, Bismarck Lodge No. 5, as sponsor, had examined its officers in the ritual and recommended the dispensation be granted. On June 28, 1911, M.'. W.'. Robert Morrison, Grand Master, had signed the dispensation and Chancellor Walworth Lodge U.'. D.'. was "on its way."
The principal officers were: W.'. M.'. Edwin M. Poole; S.'. W.'. Frank B. Lodge; J.'. W.'. Thomas E. McKane; Treasurer Harry J. Mersen; and Secretary Wyman W. Paige. The first meeting after receipt of the dispensation was held July 10, 1911; the newly appointed officers took their stations; several matters of business were transacted; and four petitions for the degrees were received and referred to committees.
The charter was granted June 19, 1912, by the Grand Lodge of North Dakota to Chancellor Walworth Lodge No. 102 of Steele, naming twenty-seven charter members, and was signed by M.'. W.'. William E. Hoover, Grand Master. The lodge was constituted, the charter delivered and the officers installed July 23, 1912, by none other than W.'. Brother John W. Carroll, founder and first worshipful master of Chancellor Walworth Lodge No. 67, and personal representative of M.'. W.'. William E. Hoover, Grand Master. He was ably assisted by several brethren from Bismarck Lodge No. 5, among them M.'. W.'. James W. Foley, Grand Master in 1904-05, and M.'. W.'. John A. Graham, Grand Master in 1953-54. Needless to say, W.'. Brother Carroll was most appreciative of this honor.
For many years the lodge hall consisted of an old school building on the west edge of Steele, which apparently was leased by the lodge and the minutes show the collection of rental from the Modern Woodmen. The building was abandoned about 1950 and the lodge rented quarters for a short time in the basement of the new municipal building down town. This was not satisfactory, because the walls were not sound proof, and in 1952 the lodge purchased a comparatively new, one-story building on Main Street which was remodeled and made into a very adequate lodge hall. This was dedicated March 26, 1956, in a well planned ceremony at which M.'. W.'. Merle Kidder, Grand Master, presided; M.'. W.'. Ralph L. Miller, Hjalmer W. Swenson, Verne Wells, Harold S. Pond and Ernest D. Nelson, Past Grand Masters; and W.'. Brother Nels G. Johnson, Grand Orator, were present and participated, W.'. Brother Johnson making the principal address. Charter member and past master William T. Ross also was present and was introduced. W.'. Brother John N. Vogel was the worshipful master in charge.
It is not possible in this small space to report the tremendous influence of Chancellor Walworth Lodge No. 102 over a wide territory during the past fifty years. Suffice it to say that with a steady membership of a little over one hundred, its jurisdiction extending north twenty-six miles to Tuttle; east and north, thirty-seven miles to Pettibone; south, thirty-seven miles to Napoleon; and west, twelve miles to Driscoll; the lodge will never run out of material and its influence is more than county-wide.
Again, mention can only be made of some of the prominent names which have designated the leaders among the many who have served the lodge faithfully and well. W.'. Brother Edwin M. Poole, founder, first W.'. M.'. in 1912, and W.'. M.'. in 1917, 1921 and 1928 was our historian; Peter Dalenberg was W.'. M.'. in 1918 (a remarkable character) William T. Ross, W.'. M.'. in 1919, is one of the last surviving charter members. William L. Smith was W.'. M.'. in 1925 and 1926, Delbert D. McKay, in 1944, William G. DeKrey, in 1951 and Richard P. Williams, in 1952. John H. Fisher was W.'. M.'. in 1953-54 and District Deputy Grand Lecturer in 1961-62; W.'. M.'. Verne Wells was elected Honorary W.'. M.'. in 1954-55 and Grand Master in 1947-48. John E. DeKrey, Jr., was W.'. M.'. in 1954-55, John N. Vogel, in 1955-56 and Harold M. Botnen, in 1957-58.
One secretary in particular is well known to every one for miles around, Roy C. Colton of Driscoll who was elected in 1953 and is still the faithful "work horse" of Chancellor Walworth lodge in 1962. Living twelve miles from Steele, it is not easy to conduct his office at home, but his work is well done and his brethren rely upon him as upon no other.
A long and varied history, covering parts of two centuries and several generations, over a wide expanse of territory, Chancellor Walworth Lodge No. 102 is unique and typical of western North Dakota.
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Litchville Lodge No. 103, Litchville
It seems strange that of four lodges, Sanborn No. 14, Mackey No. 18, at LaMoure; Dickey No. 63 and Litchville No. 103, located from 20 to 30 miles apart, in splendid farming country, only two remain today. Proximity of through highways and larger trading centers is part of the answer, but lack of good and continuing Masonic material is probably more important and a combination of all three is usually fatal, as it was at Dickey in 1934 and at Litchville in 1936. Evidently Litchville never had a chance. Starting with 21 charter members in 1913, it rose to 40 in 1923, dropped to 28 in 1933 and closed with 27 in 1936.
The petition for dispensation for a new lodge at Litchville was circulated in the spring of 1912 with Brother Clinton E. Spicer as the principal promoter. There were twenty-one signatures on the petition, and on July 16, 1912, Sanborn Lodge No. 14 signed the recommendation for instituting the lodge, as sponsor. The dispensation for Litchville Lodge U.'. D.'. was signed June 19, 1912, by M.'. W.'. William E. Hoover, Grand Master, naming the following principal officers: W.'. II.'. Clinton E. Spicer; S.'. W.'. James G. Bennett; J.'. W.'. Raymond M. Davis; Treasurer George Hammerud; and Secretary John E. Nelson.
The first stated communication U.'. D.'. was held August 13, 1912, in a hall leased from W. A. Siegfried for $10.00 per month. At this meeting two petitions for the degrees were read and referred to committees. The lodge was kept busy all of the following year conferring degrees and many special meetings were called for this purpose, as well as stated communications. On May 27, 1913, at a stated communication, twenty-three visitors attended, mostly from Sanborn, and witnessed the exemplification of the third degree after which a banquet was served. The lodge was closed at 12:30 a.m. that night.
The charter was granted June 25, 1913, by the Grand Lodge of North Dakota to Litchville Lodge No. 103 with twenty-one charter members and was signed by M.'. W.'. Walter L. Williamson, Grand Master The lodge was constituted, the charter delivered and the officers installed August 12, 1913, by Grand Master Williamson, assisted by M.'. W.'. Brothers Walter H. Murfin and Robert B. Cox who were later to become Grand Masters, and several other distinguished Masons. About 60 attended from surrounding lodges.
From there Litchville lodge "pursued the even tenor of its way" with average success but with a membership of only about 30. Then, on July 4, 1929, the lodge hall burned, destroyed all lodge property, including the charter. A duplicate charter was secured from the Grand Secretary and the lodge went on, but the end was near; drought and depression had set in and the struggle for survival was too great. On December 31, 1936. Litchville Lodge No. 103 surrendered its charter and one more "noble experiment" had become history.
Following are the names of some of those who led the lodge between 1913 and 1936: W.'. Brothers Clinton E. Spicer, first W.'. M.'. in 1913: James G. Bennett, W.'. M.'. in 1914 and 1926; Raymond M. Davis, W.'. M.'. in 1915 and 1924; Alfred P. Hanson, W.'. M.'. in 1916 and 1917; Rawlin A. Kinzer, W.'. M.'. in 1919 and 1920; George Hammerud, treasurer in 1913 and W.'. M.'. in 1923; John E. Nelson, secretary in 1913 and W.'. M.'. in 1930 and 1931; John W. Jongeward, W.'. M.'. in 1925 and 1933; John H. Fewell, W.'. M.'. in 1935; and Russell Fewell, W.'. M.'. in 1934 and in 1936 when Litchville Lodge No. 103 ceased to be.
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The importance of safeguarding lodge records against loss by fire is too often overlooked until too late, as evidenced by the following excerpt from a letter, written to the Grand Lodge Librarian May 21, 1955, by Past Master Ray S. Ashley of Plaza Lodge No. 104, in answer to a request that Past Master Herman L. Selvig prepare a history of the lodge for the Grand Lodge files: "Mr. Selvig is unable to write any history of Plaza Lodge because of the fact that all our records, minutes, etc.. have twice burned up."
Tragic as such losses are to any lodge, it is also lamentable that the Masonic history of North Dakota is hereby deprived of the intimate story of a splendid lodge which deserves a better "place in the sun." One can only endeavor to piece together the best account possible from the records at hand and only regret that they are meager at best.
The opening of a part of the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation for settlement in the early part of the twentieth century, brought a quick increase in population to Plaza, one of the established trading posts on the reservation, and Masonry was soon to follow.
There were twenty-four valid signatures of Master Masons on the petition for a new lodge at Plaza who appeared before Berthold Lodge No. 72 at Berthold, their sponsor, on October 7, 1913, proved their proficiency in the ritual and obtained a recommendation for dispensation to institute Plaza Lodge at Plaza. The dispensation was granted November 13, 1913, by M.'. W.'. Walter L. Williamson, Grand Master, naming the following principal officers: W.'. M.'. George J. Prchal; S.'. W.'. Octor J. Torbenson; J.'. W.'. Andrew F. Debertin; Treasurer Lemuel E. Linder; and Secretary Harry M. Emmanuelson.
The first stated communication of Plaza Lodge U.'. D.'. was held November 18, 1913, in a hall rented from Torbenson and Deming for $168.00 per year, payable semi-annually. The dispensation was read, routine business was transacted and seven petitions for the degrees were received and referred to committees. Lodge closed at 11:00 p.m., to enjoy a luncheon served by the elective officers.
Regular and special meetings •were held almost every week until May 26, 1914, with degree work occupying much of the time. The most pretentious meeting was held May 19, 1914, when twenty members of Plaza lodge were present: fifteen from Joppa Lodge No. 95 at Stanley; two from Holden Lodge No. 81 at Balfour; one from Ashlar Lodge No. 69 at Granville; and one from Albert Pike Lodge No. 237 of Minnesota. The Master Mason degree was exemplified, elaborate refreshments were served and lodge closed at a very late hour.
The charter was granted June 17, 1914, by the Grand Lodge of North Dakota to Plaza Lodge No. 104 at Plaza, twenty-four charter members were named and the charter was signed by M.'. W.'. Frank H. Sprague, Grand Master. The lodge was constituted, the charter delivered and the officers installed July 29, 1914, by Grand Master Sprague. accompanied and assisted by Deputy Grand Master Harry Lord.
Little is available as to the history of Plaza lodge during the years immediately following, due to fires in November, 1916. and October, 1921. which completely destroyed the records of the lodge. However, it is known that an adequate lodge hall was built or purchased and the lodge continued with varying success. In 1923 the membership reached 101; in 1933 it was 85; in 1943 it had dropped to 59; but in 1953 it had recovered to 90.
With the growth of the nearby town of Parshall to a population of over 1,200, and Plaza dropping to a little over 200, most of the new lodge members and officers came from Parshall, so that in 1956 the members voted unanimously to move to Parshall, where the lodge was able to purchase a good lodge hall at a reasonable price. Accordingly, on November 14, 1956, M.'. W.'. James C. McCormick, Grand Master, and M.'. W.'. Harold S. Pond, Grand Secretary, went to Parshall, where the transfer was officially made and proper notation recorded on the charter. Great credit is due to W.'. Brother Eugene Solomonson, worshipful master, and Sam Drablos, secretary, both of Parshall, for their fine work in bringing these things to pass.
As always, the record of accomplishment in any lodge lies with those who carry the burden in the heat of the day and whose story lives after them. Here are a few.
W.'. Brother George J. Prchal was the first W.'. M.'. in 1914; he was followed by Andrew F. Debertin, W.'. M.'. in 1915, 1932 and 1937; Lemuel E. Linder was the first treasurer in 1913, was W.'. M.'. in 1918 and 1924, and again in 1931; and Bay S. Ashley was W.'. M.'. in 1919.
Then followed the patron saint of Plaza lodge, Herman L. Selvig, who was one of its first candidates and was "raised" on March 3, 1914, while the lodge was U.'. D.'. He served as W.'. M.'. in 1921, 1934 and 1936, and for many years on the Grand Lodge Committee on Mileage and Per Diem. He was always on duty in his lodge and his services were invaluable. Living most of his active life in Plaza, the community and lodge were very dear to him. When the vote was taken, May 1, 1956, to move the lodge to Parshall, there were a few dissenting votes and it was Brother Herman who moved to make the vote unanimous. "Greater love hath no man than this!"
W.'. Brother Burrett H. Pond, relative of M.'. W.\ Harold S. Pond, was W.'. M.'. in 1927 and was one of North Dakota's pioneers, coming to Minto in the '80's, thence to Berthold and Plaza,. He presented his Knights of Pythias sword, with his name engraved on the blade, to Plaza lodge for a tyler's sword, and the last time we visited there it was proudly shown to us.
W.'. Brother John C. Black, son-in-law of W.'. Brother Burrett H. Pond, followed him as W.'. M.'. in 1928 and served again in 1933, 1940 and 1941. He was postmaster at Plaza and passed away quite unexpectedly in 1943.
W.'. Brother Charles Richardson was W.'. M.'. in 1923, 1938 and 1939; Grant O. Perry in 1936, 1944 and 1955-56; Gustave E. Solomonson in 1942, 1946 and 1947; Wade Williamson in 1948 and 1949; Arthur Hedberg in 1953 and 1954-55; and Eugene Solomonson in 1956-57, at the time the lodge was moved to Parshall.
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Garfield Lodge No. 105, Hatton
When one travels from Hillsboro to Larimore, by way of Mayville, Hatton and Northwood, along the Goose River Valley and beholds the productive, level land, the beautiful groves of trees, the magnificent farm homes and thriving cities, he is, not surprised to find a prosperous Masonic lodge in every one. Garfield Lodge No. 105 of Hatton is situated right in the midst of them.
The whole region was settled by thrifty immigrants from Norway, three and four generations ago and they have never changed their ways, as the beautiful country-side will testify. They still cherish the best things of life which are so necessary for prosperity and happiness.
It is almost unbelievable that the brethren of Dacotah Lodge No. 55 at Mayville would care to sponsor a new lodge so near when fourteen of their own members, out of twenty petitioners, demitted to make up its membership, but such was the circumstance. A certificate of recommendation was signed November 11, 1913, and the dispensation instituting Garfield Lodge U.'. D.'. at Hatton was granted November 31, 1913, by M.'. W.'. Walter L. Williamson, Grand Master, naming the following principal officers: W.'. M.'. Harvey H. Bissell; S.'. W.'. Edward N. Hegge; J.'. W.'. Andrew C. Cole; Treasurer Olaf J. Wikoren; and Secretary Edward Nyhus.
The first stated communication of the lodge was held December 18, 1913, in the Modern Woodmen hall which was rented at $10.00 per month; routine business was attended to; a by-laws committee was appointed; and three petitions for the degrees were received and referred to committees. At the second meeting on January 15, 1914, seven petitions for the degrees and one for affiliation were received and referred.
Thus, Garfield lodge was off to a good start and the brethren held eight stated and nine special communications while under dispensation, between December 18, 1913, and May 21, 1914, adding eight to their membership during that time. Over and over again, the names of Brothers Edward N. Hegge, senior warden, Edward Nyhus, secretary, and Isaac Hegge, senior deacon, appeared in the minutes and it is evident that they were leaders in the lodge.
The charter was granted by the Grand Lodge of North Dakota June 17, 1914, to Garfield Lodge No. 105, of Hatton with twenty charter members, and was signed by M.'. W.'. Frank H. Sprague, Grand Master. The lodge was constituted, the charter delivered and the officers installed October 15, 1914, by Grand Master Sprague, assisted by Past Grand Masters Walter L. Stockwell and Halfdan Bendeke. A banquet was served to 130 brethren from Garfield and surrounding lodges, at which M.'. W.'. Brothers Stockwell and Bendeke were the principal speakers.
It is not known when Garfield lodge moved to the municipal building north of the business district, but it occupied rooms there for many years. Finally, in the late 1950's, land was purchased at the southeastern edge of town where there is plenty of room and the brethren are building a fine lodge hall which will meet their every need. Working slowly, as funds are available, the basement is completed and the building is enclosed. The lodge now meets in the basement while the interior is being finished and Garfield lodge is. to be congratulated on the foresightedness and thrift of its members. The average membership is 70, promising that there will always be a lodge at Hatton.
There are so many who have been prominent in Garfield lodge that a few examples, here and there, will serve to illustrate the type of all and no one will be slighted. W.'. Brother Harvey H. Bissell was the first W.'. M.'. in 1914; and he was followed by Dr. Edward N. Hegge, dentist, the first S.'. W.'. in 1914, W.'. M.'. in 1915 and 1918, always a leader in the lodge and community and chairman of the school board for many years. He died in 1954, at the age of 82, beloved of all. Then there were Isaac Hegge, first S.'. D.'. in 1914, W.'. M.'. in 1917 and 1924; and Edward Nyhus, first secretary in 1914 and W.'. M.'. in 1919, both charter members and pillars of the lodge.
W.'. Brothers Alva M. Wambheim, W.'. M.'. in 1930, and Henry M. Tufte, W.'. M.'. in 1933, both were outstanding men. Orion A. Cole, W.'. M.'. in 1947 and District Deputy Grand Master from 1952-1958 is a newspaper publisher and civic leader; and Richard Prestbo, W.'. M.'. in 1948 and secretary from 1949-1961 is a devoted Mason and a friend to all.
No youthful North Dakotan has ever been a greater hero in his home state than Lieutenant Carl Ben Eielson of Hatton, who lost his life November 9, 1929, off the northeast coast of Siberia in a blizzard while rescuing the passengers and crew of the steamship Nanuk, caught in the ice floes, between Teller, Alaska, and East Cape, Siberia.
Briefly, this is his story. Carl Ben Eielson was born at Hatton, North Dakota, July 20, 1897, the son of Ole Eielson, general merchant. He graduated from high school in Hatton and from the University of North Dakota, taking time in between to enter World War I and to emerge in 1919, a lieutenant in the United States Army Air Force. He was raised in Garfield Lodge No. 105, September 16, 1921.
After several years of flying, he landed in Alaska where he carried mail, did commercial flying and piloted Sir George Hubert Wilkins on his 2200 mile air flight from Point Barrow, Alaska, to Green Harbour, Spitzbergen. He also went with Wilkins to explore the Weddell Sea area of the Antarctic and won distinction there.
Returning to Alaska, he busied himself with various flying missions, such as carrying gold dust, newspapers, medicine, sick "sourdoughs" and expectant mothers to relief, hauling luxuries — such as snuff and tobacco — to inland, isolated miners, rescuing stranded prospectors; in fact, bringing help by air to any who needed it.
It was a mission of this nature that took him to the steamship Nanuk, caught in the ice off Siberia, in early November, 1929. He and a companion found the ship, took off one load of passengers and were returning on November 9, 1929, when their plane disappeared. He and Carl Borland, his companion, were found dead, 40 miles from the Nanuk, January 25, 1930, by Joe Crosson and Harold Gillam, bosom companions of Ben in former days.
The body of Carl Ben Eielson was returned to Hatton, where it was buried in a beautiful mausoleum, with military ceremonies.
He had been awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor, the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Harmon Trophy, but the finest tribute of all has come from his home town of Hatton, where they still speak tenderly of "our Ben." "They may forget that, 'down under' in the Antarctic, there is a cape bearing the name of Eielson; they may not recall the many honors their storekeeper's son brought home to Hatton, during his short life, but they like to tell how he would return quietly from some noted flight and walk home to the grey-and-white house, children crowding about him; how he always had time to stop and bat a few flies for the little boys; to chat with some old lady, who used to trade eggs for groceries at the Eielson general store.
"And in far-off Alaska, where Mt. Eielson lifts its majestic snow-crowned summit, higher than the eagle's flight, Alaskans point with pride and gratitude and say: 'We named it for our Ben.' "*
Such is the stuff of which Garfield Lodge No. 105, at Hatton, is made! *From "Brother To The Eagle," by Rolfsrud.
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Flasher Lodge No. 106, Flasher
There are certain regions of North Dakota where one wonders how long Protestantism can exist and the area in and around Flasher is one of them. Fifty years ago a strong Protestant parish was built up, a Masonic lodge was organized and a public school system was established in keeping with the needs of the day.
Today, the Protestant church is barely existent, the Masonic lodge hardly functions and the public schools are hampered beyond belief. Parochial schools for grade and high school students prosper. Five times, elections for bonding to build needed public schools have failed; the majority of the public school board is non-Protestant; in 1962, the superintendent of schools who is a Mason, was not re-employed and a non-Protestant was engaged in his place. Is this America or is it medieval Europe of five centuries ago?
It is evident from the documents filed in the Grand Secretary's office, that most of the year 1913 was devoted to the procedure necessary for organizing a lodge at Flasher. A petition for a new lodge was circulated by Brother S. Lawrence Kleve. The prospective officers appeared June 10, 1913, before Mandan Lodge No. 8, as sponsor, and proved their proficiency in the ritual; and on December 27, 1913, a recommendation for dispensation was signed by the worshipful master and secretary of Mandan Lodge. The dispensation, instituting Flasher Lodge U.'. D.'. of Flasher, was granted December 31, 1913?by M.'. W.'. Walter L. Williamson, Grand Master, authorizing: the following' to be the first principal officers: W.'. M.'. S. Lawrence Kleve; s'.'. W.'. Adelbert A. Abel; J.'. W.'. John M. Dennis; Treasurer Charles Danzeisen; and Secretary Edward Loader.
The first stated communication of the new lodge was held January 7, 1914, in a hall owned by Brother William F. Berrier, charter member and junior deacon, which was rented at $15.00 per month, payable in advance. It is noted that the hall was sublet to the Odd Fellows for $10.00 per month and to the Royal Neighbors for $2.00 per month.
At the first meeting the newly appointed officers took their stations; the dispensation was read; dues and fees were set; and arrangements were made for the purchase of necessary supplies.
At the second stated communication on January 21, 1914, the first petition for the degrees was read and referred to a committee. It is interesting to note that during the six month period under dispensation, Flasher lodge received but four petitions for the degrees, "raising" two of them and balloting on the other two after receipt of the charter.
The most elaborate celebration came on May 30, 1914, when visitors were present from Wahpeton, Bismarck and Mandan; the Master Mason degree was exemplified between 6:30 and 8:30 p.m.; special entertainment was provided for the Masons and their ladies until 10:30 p.m.; after which all sat down to a seven course banquet. Everyone agreed that this would go down in history as one of Flasher's most enjoyable evenings.
The charter was granted June 17, 1914, by the Grand Lodge of North Dakota to Flasher Lodge No. 106 of Flasher, naming twenty-one charter members, and was signed by M.'. W.'. Frank H. Sprague, Grand Master. The lodge was constituted October 21, 1914, by W.'. Brother Amil P. Lenhart of Bismarck, Junior Grand Deacon, as special representative of M.'. W.'. Frank H. Sprague, Grand Master. He was assisted by W.'. Brother John A. Graham of Bismarck. (Both Brothers Lenhart and Graham later became Grand Masters in North Dakota.
How long Flasher lodge continued to meet in the Berrier building is not known but ultimately the lodge purchased a vacant building in the west part of town which has served it for many years. Recently they have considered investing in a new and smaller building on Main Street, but with conditions as they are at present, no action has been taken. Communities like Flasher need help as they cannot overcome the "octopus" alone. Here is a sturdy membership of fifty to sixty Master Masons fighting- for existence. Are they to be preserved or isn't liberty worth the battle?
Who has carried the torch thus far? Here are a few: W.'. Brothers S. Lawrence Kleve, W.'. M.'. in 1914 and 1915; Adelbert A. Abel, W.\ M.'. in 1916 and 1917; Alvin C. Grace, W.-. M.'. from 1918-1920; Arthur J. Smith, W.'. M.'. in 1921 and 1922, also 1924 and 1925; Albert L. Warren, W.'. M.'. in 1926 and 1927; Arthur L. Rossow, W.'. M.'. in 1929, 1937 and 1938, 1945 and 1947; Rev. William T. Boyd, W.'. M.'. in 1930 and 1931; Frederick C. Rossow, W.'. M.'. in 1932 and 1933; James W. Rodenbaugh, W.'. M.'. in 1934 and 1935; Edwin H. Heitkamp, W.'. M.'. in 1939 and 1940; Arthur F. Foat, W.'. M.'. in 1941 and 1942; Merritt F. Harding, W.'. M.'. in 1943 and 1944; Emil Giese, W.'. M.'. in 1949, now district judge at Hettinger; Delbert D. Metz, postmaster, W.'. M.'. in 1952 and District Deputy Grand Lecturer 1954-1957; and Arnold L. Ketterling, W.'. M.'. in 1959-60.
A responsible statistician has stated that if present trends hold, Protestantism in North Dakota, west of the Missouri River, will lose its majority in the next ten years. Masons, awaken!
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The town of Ray, on the western edge of the Tioga oil field, occupies a unique position in regard to the "oil boom" of the last decade in Williams County of North Dakota. The town of Tioga is in the center of the district and most of the "hustle and bustle" is concentrated there. Ray has escaped this and has acquired a more permanent class of residents and businesses than usually attends a rapid growth of this kind. Its population has increased from 721 in 1950, to 1049 in 1960, and the entire community has benefited thereby. Especially is this true of Craftsman Lodge No. 107 at Ray.
The idea for a Masonic lodge at Ray developed in the early spring of 1914, in the minds of such men as Brothers Frank J. Todd, its first W.'. M.'.; Wendell H. Linwell, its first secretary; James E. Kilshaw, theatre operator, who was a fine ritualist; and William Simpson, a native of Scotland and a world traveller, as well as a gold prospector in Africa and Alaska, who was convinced that Masonry was an essential part of every community.
With these men as a nucleus, twenty-one signatures were quickly obtained on a petition for a new lodge, officers were selected and their proficiency in the ritual was certified on April 7, 1914, by Adoniram Lodge No. 91 at White Earth, as sponsor. A dispensation, instituting Craftsman Lodge UV. D.'. at Ray was granted April 27. 1914, by M.'. W.'. Walter L. Williamson) Grand Master, naming the fo'.Iowing principal officers: W.'. M.'. Frank J. Todd; S.'. W.'. George R. Butier; J.'. W.'. John M. Schram; Treasurer Ira S. Abplanalp; and Secretary Wendell H. Linwell.
The first stated communication of the lodge was held in the Odd Fellows hall, which was rented for $3.50 per meeting, on April 29, 1914. with eight members present, six of them regular officers. Routine business was transacted and two petitions for the degrees were read and referred to committees. The lodge met regularly until June 1, 1914, but was not granted a charter by the Gr,and Lodge that year, owing to the short time it had been under dispensation, and the original dispensation was continued on June 19, 1914, 'until June 1, 1915, by M.'. W.'. Frank H. Sprague, Grand Master.
In the meantime Craftsman lodge had leased the A.O.U.W. hall at Ray, as a more or less permanent home, at a rental of $10.00 per month which was paid annually in advance. The lodge added four new members to the original number and lost one by death, bringing the total membership to twenty-four when the charter was issued.
The charter was granted June 16, 1915, by the Grand Lodge of North Dakota to Craftsman Lodge No. 107 at Ray, with twenty-four charter members, and was signed by M.'. W.'. Harry Lord, Grand Master. The lodge was constituted, the charter was delivered and the officers were installed July 27, 1915, by Grand Master Harry Lord, assisted by Grand Secretary Walter L. Stockwell, Grand Pursuivant Henry E. Byorum and District Deputy Grand Master Crawford J. Campbell, together with several brethren from Williston and surrounding lodges.
The first thirty-five years were hard ones for Craftsman lodge, beginning with twenty-four members in 1915, increasing to forty-four in 1925, dropping to thirty-five in 1945, and reaching its highest point of sixty-two in 1960. The reasons are self-evident; first, the depression and drought years of the "thirties" brought their usual losses in membership; second, the purchase and renovation of their lodge hall in 1949 started their much needed revival of spirit and interest; and third, the discovery of oil nearby gave Ray an increase in population which has been most salutary.
The story of their new lodge hall is most interesting. Following World War II the lodge was in despair. The A.O.U.W. hall, which it was renting, was in urgent need of repair when the American Legion purchased the building to convert it into a tavern and gave Craftsman lodge two months in which to vacate. Several members advocated the surrender of their charter and affiliating with nearby lodges, but the majority prevailed and a campaign was started to raise funds and to stay where they were. In a short time $3,049.50 was subscribed and the property was purchased; a complete rebuilding program was undertaken; the members provided most of the labor free of charge. Not only a new lodge hall came into being, but a revitalized and rededicated lodge membership appeared, which has gone on to greater and better things. Several contributions amounted to S250.00 and $200.00 but these gifts, necessary as they were, did not exceed the sincerity of a member of West Gate Lodge No. 125 of Tioga who contributed $10.00, saying that he wanted to buy a few nails for the new hall. The rebuilding of the temple was completed in 1949 and the building stands as a monument to the industry and persistence of its members.
Craftsman Lodge No. 107 has always been of service to the community of Ray and its influence has been felt, in the town and throughout the country-side. It has consistently supported the Boy Scouts and the Order of Rainbow for Girls; it has also assisted in oratorical contests in the public schools and in many similar projects.
Among the leaders in the lodge have been such men as these: W.'. Brother Frank J. Todd was one of the founders and was the first W.'. M.'. in 1915 and from 1919-1922; John M. Schram was a charter member and W.'. M.'. in 1916; Dr. Ira S. Abplanalp was a charter member and the first treasurer in 1915; Wendell H. Linwell was also a charter member and the first secretary in 1915; James E. Kilshaw was W.'. M.'. in 1930 and has been mentioned as a fine ritualist; Robert I. Parker was W.'. M.'. in 1943 and 1944; Richard Anderson was W.'. M.'. in 1945-46; Marshall Simpson was W.'. M.'. in 1947 and 1948; and Alvin L. Anderson was W.'. M.'. in 1949 and 1950, while the new lodge hall was in process of building.
And finally, we come to W.'. Brother Ernam W. Hansen, W.'. M.'. in 1935, and one of the most devoted secretaries any lodge ever had. When asked the names of the secretaries, who had served longest and best, he replied: "I have served the 'mostest', but who was the 'bestest', that's another question." Beginning in 1926, he was elected as secretary, also in 1927, 1929, 1930 and again in 1961 and 1962. He held the office of treasurer for ten years, back in the 1940's, so has been on the job most of the past thirty years, and while he has been one of Craftsman lodge's most indispensable members, he has also been one of its most humble and unassuming.
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The circumstances surrounding the organizing of Crosby Lodge No. 108 at Crosby were somewhat complicated, but were probably solved to the best interests of all concerned as past events have proven. Ambrose Lodge No. 97 received its charter June 28, 1911, and covered the territory from the Montana state line on the west, through Crosby and Noonan on the east. Then in 1914 the Masons at Crosby petitioned the Grand Master for a dispensation to institute Crosby Lodge LV. D.'. at Crosby, and those at Noonan filed a petition for Coalfield Lodge U.'. D.'. at Noonan; both groups requesting Ambrose No. 97 to sponsor them.
Ambrose lodge objected to sponsoring Crosby lodge, on account of its proximity — less than ten miles — but was willing to sponsor Coalfield lodge as Noonan was twenty-five miles to the east. After careful consideration, M.'. W.'. Prank H. Sprague, Grand Master, granted a dispensation to Crosby lodge, it being the county seat of Divide County and most likely to grow in size and importance. At the same time he declined to issue a dispensation to Coalfield lodge and the Masons from Noonan still attend Crosby lodge. Some loss accrued to Ambrose lodge, of course, but under the circumstances it could not be avoided.
There were thirty signatures on the petition for a new lodge at Crosby, and twenty-five of the signers qualified as charter members. On May 13, 1914, they appeared before Ambrose Lodge No. 97, as sponsor, and proved their proficiency in the ritual. However, the Ambrose brethren objected to a new lodge so near to them. This was overruled and on August 7, 1914, a dispensation was granted to Crosby Lodge U.'. D.'. by M.'. W.'. Prank H. Sprague, Grand Master, authorizing the following to be the first officers of the lodge: W.'. M.'. George C. E. Goetze; S.'. W.'. Clayton E. Brace; JV. W.'. Allan L. Truax; Treasurer Henry I. Wilson; and Secretary Godfrey P. Hawkinson.
The first stated communication of Crosby Lodge U.'. D.'. was held August 17, 1914, in Ashley hall, which had been leased for $360.00 per year, with privilege of subleasing to other lodges. The fees were set at $50.00, the dues at $4.00, the necessary committees were appointed and eight petitions for the degrees were received and referred to committees. A cordial invitation was extended to the brethren at Noonan, whose petition for a dispensation to institute Coalfield Lodge U.'. D.'. at Noonan had been denied to affiliate with Crosby lodge, which was cordially accepted. On October 19, 1914, fifteen petitions for affiliation were accepted and relations between Crosby and Noonan have always been most cordial.
A busy year followed, during which thirty-five members were added to the rolls of Crosby lodge, many special meetings were held for degree work and much midnight oil burned. One night it was 1:30 a.m. when the last candidate was "raised." The final stated communication U.'. D.'. was held May 31, 1915, and Ambrose Lodge No. 97 was invited to confer the second and third sections of the third degree. Forty-nine members attended from Crosby and there were twenty-eight visitors, mostly from Ambrose. It was 12:45 a.m. when lodge was closed, but all agreed that never had the two lodges been as close to each other as they were that night.
The charter was granted June 16, 1915, by the Grand Lodge of North Dakota to Crosby Lodge No. 108, twenty-five charter members were named and the charter was signed by M.'. W.'. Harry Lord, Grand Master. The lodge was constituted, the charter was delivered and the officers were installed on July 28, 1915, by Grand Master Harry Lord, assisted by Grand Secretary Walter L. Stockwell, Grand Pursuivant Henry E. Byorum and District Deputy Grand Master Crawford J. Campbell.
The lodge has continued to prosper and has maintained a membership of around one hundred over the years. Moving from Ashley hall, meetings were held for a time on the second floor of the Duffy building on Main Street, then in the city fire hall building. But all these years Crosby Lodge was planning a home of its own, and in 1926 these plans took shape. With the splendid assistance of the Order of the Eastern Star, $18,000.00 was raised and the present beautiful temple was built and furnished in 1927.
The lodge has always co-operated in community affairs, especially in war work, equipment for the local hospital, Red Cross, Boy Scouts, high school oratorical contests, a boys' chorus, and many others. In 1938, Carl H. Claudy's play, "A Rose Upon the Altar," was given with great success in Crosby, Kenrnare, Ambrose and Weyburn, Saskatchewan. On October 29, 1940, Crosby Lodge observed its 25th anniversary with a well planned and successful program.
Who has made all this possible? The lodge, working as a unit, under the leadership of men like these: W.'. Brother George C. E. Goetze, one of the founders and W.'. M.'. in 1914 and 1915; Allan L. Truax, a founder, W.'. M.'. in 1917 and so beloved by the Masons of North Dakota that the 1959 Proceedings of the Grand Lodge of North Dakota were dedicated to him; Godfrey F. Hawkinson, charter member, first secretary in 1915, also in 1916 and 1917, W.'. M.'. in 1919, Grand Tyler in 1938, regularly advanced to Senior Grand Steward in 1943 when he died suddenly at his desk as county auditor in Crosby, July 6, 1943, one of the most honored and respected citizens and Masons of Divide County. Another charter member of distinction was Henry Wilson, first treasurer in 1915. He presented the lodge a gavel, obtained by his daughter from the same quarry which produced the stone for King Solomon's Temple.
W.'. Brother Birdza A. Mills was W.'. M.'. in 1928 and was active in the building of the new temple; Anton Otheim was W.'. M.'. in 1929, assisted with the temple building and was instructor in the ritual for many years; A. U. Anderson was W.'. M.'. in Bowbells Lodge No. 75 before affiliating at Crosby in 1933, where he was secretary from 1941-1949; Raymond M. Bergem was W.'. M.'. in 1936 and it was he who started the Carl H. Claudy plays so successfully; he was followed by John A. Krencher as W.'. M.'. in 1937, with another Claudy play and these were continued for some years. Richard D. Truax has been of invaluable service; he was W.'. M.'. in 1941 and has been treasurer for the past four years. He is an outstanding ritualist and always ready to help.
Then we come to a devoted number of Masons who live in the Noonan community and have travelled hundreds of miles in the fulfillment of their duty. Among them W.'. Brother Homer Wilson, W.'. M.'. in 1943, who has "raised" more Masons than any other in Crosby lodge: Paul L. Rossow, W.'. M.'. in 1949; Ralph R. Johnson in 1954; and Robert A. Brandt in 1959.
A splendid asset to Crosby lodge has been W.'. Brother Roy Arnold who was "raised" in Ambrose Lodge No. 97 April 3, 1915, and later served as worshipful master. He moved to Crosby and affiliated with No. 108. April 14, 1947, where his attendance and interest have been among the best. He has served as chaplain and is always eager to assist with degree work or wherever needed most. Surely his 47 years of Masonry have been used to good advantage.
We must mention two more; W.'. Brother John K. Tysse, W.'. M.'. in 1957 and present instructor in the ritual, who became a Mason at 51 years of age, the best informed instructor in the lodge and indispensable in too many ways to mention; and finally, "Old Faithful in Person," W.'. Brother Ralph H. Easton, born at Tioga in 1909, by profession a pharmacist, "raised" in Crosby lodge April 13, 1931, W.'. M.'. in 1945 and secretary from 1950-1962 (and we hope for many more). Courteous, industrious, intelligent and patient, he has those qualities which make him invaluable to home, community, church and lodge. Crosby has no citizen more dedicated than he.
Gratitude is expressed to W.'. Brothers Richard S. Truax, Eugene M. Bothun, Clarence Hector and Ralph H. Easton for their invaluable assistance in compiling the above record.
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Friendship Lodge No. 109, Butte
In the early days the little town of Dogden, renamed Butte in 1927, must have been a pretty spot. Located in the hills on the Soo Line, between Drake and Plaza, it lay in an area of beautiful small lakes—Krueger to the southeast, Strawberry, Long and Crooked to the southwest were the nearest, and it must have seemed like home to the Germans from southeastern Europe who settled there. The prolonged drought of the "thirties" wreaked its vengeance everywhere; the water disappeared and the land did not recover its fertility for many years. Irrigation is still a possibility for the entire area, from the Missouri River reservoir to Devils Lake, which would restore thousands of acres to their former productivity and gladden the hearts of those who still remain.
It was here that twenty Master Masons, in the early spring of 1914, decided to form a lodge and requested the brethren of Holden Lodge No. 81, at Balfour, fourteen miles to the north, to sponsor them. The response was immediate and instead of Dogden coming to Balfour, Balfour came to Dogden and on July 16. 1914, to quote the minutes: "The officers and members (fifteen in number) of Holden Lodge No. 81 came to Dogden on the above date and took charge of the Masonic hall." They even supplied the "dummy" candidate in the person of W.'. Brother Fred Peters, their junior warden, who is still living in 1963, and a good friend of the writer. Needless to say, the officers of the new lodge performed their work in a satisfactory manner and the minutes conclude: "Lodge closed in due form at 1:30 a.m., after which lunch was served at the Dogden Hotel, following which the Balfour brothers returned home." One wonders when they slept!
The dispensation instituting Friendship Lodge U.'. D.'. at Dogden was granted August 13, 1914, by M.'. W.'. Frank H. Sprague, Grand Master, designating the following principal officers: W.'. M.'. Rolla E. Person; S.'. W.'. Edgar E. Brown; J.'. W.'. Frank B. Masteller; Treasurer Joseph A. Ross; and Secretary Ralph A. Pence.
Before the lodge was instituted on March 7, 1914, the brethren met, and among other things, voted to rent rooms from Brother Joseph A. Ross over the office of the Dogden Land Co. for $10.00 per month. A new carpet and chairs were purchased and it is evident that the property was well kept at all times. The first stated communication of the new lodge after dispensation was held August 20, 1914, at which the dispensation was read and ordered spread upon the minutes of the lodge. At the second stated communication on September 3, 1914, four petitions for the degrees were read and referred to committees. Friendship lodge was off to a good start. During the period the lodge was under dispensation all stated and many special communications were held and nine candidates were "raised", a remarkable record.
The charter was granted June 16, 1915, by the Grand Lodge of North Dakota to Friendship Lodge No. 109 of Dogden, with twenty charter members, and was signed by M.'. W.'. Harry Lord, Grand Master. The lodge was constituted, the charter was delivered and the officers were installed July 29, 1915, by Grand Master Harry Lord, assisted by Grand Secretary Walter L. Stockwell, who was the speaker for the occasion which was well attended.
For the first ten years Friendship lodge prospered and in 1925 its membership stood at fifty-three, but by 1935 the drought was taking its toll and the membership was down to thirty-four. In 1945 it was twenty-three, and the following year on December 2, 1946, the charter was surrendered and Friendship Lodge No. 109 of Butte was no more. (The name Dogden had been changed to Butte in 1927, and naturally the name of the lodge changed with that of the town).
Among those who carried Friendship lodge through fair days and dark were: W.'. Brothers Rolla E. Person, first W.'. M.'. in 1915 and 1916; Edgar E. Brown, W.'. M.'. in 1917 and 1918; Frank B. Masteller, W.'. M,'. from 1919-1921 and in 1931; James G. Overholser. W/. M.'. in 1928, 1933 and 1934; Joseph Ruesink. W.'. M.'. in 1929 and 1932: and the giant of them all, William Stewart, W.'. M.'. in 1924 ar.ci from 1936 through 1946; until the charter was surrendered.
But that was not all. Brother Stewart served the lodge as secretary from 1927-1935 and Brother Overholser took over from him as secretary in 1936 and carried on in that capacity to the end of 1946. What a lonely vigil these two Masonic heroes must have had!
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