History Of The Lodge

OPEN IN FORM

by

Larry O. Hurley

A History of

Bradford Lodge No.123 F. & A. M.

Independence, Kentucky

Presented to

The Officers and Members

of the Lodge

August 1981

We hadn't good regalia,

and our Lodge was old and bare;

But we knew the Ancient Landmarks,

and we kept them to a hair.

Rudyard Kipling

PREFACE

In these pages I have attempted to capture some moments in the one hundred forty year history of Bradford Lodge No. 123, F. & A. M.

In reading this account bear in mind that it is only a history, and not the history.

The complete history of the Lodge is recorded in

the minutes, reports, documents, communications, and other official Lodge papers. To write an inclusive history would require duplicating all these records.

Although every effort was made to obtain all nec­essary and pertinent information, I am well aware of the possibility that something of value has been overlooked, and omitted. I can only apologize for that which may have escaped by discerning eye.

It was my desire, at the beginning of this project, to tell a story about Bradford Lodge in a way that would be interesting, informative, and entertaining to all its members.

I sincerely hope I have accomplished my goal.

Larry O. Hurley

In The Beginning

 At precisely two o'clock PM, Saturday, October 16, 1841, Brother Joseph Foster, Grand Master, protem, gave one loud knock with the gavel.

"I hold a commission of proxy from the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky, Free and Accepted Masons, authorizing me to install the officers of a new lodge in this place, to be known as Bradford Lodge under Dispensation. And set it regularly to work."

Brother Foster proceeded to install the following officers;

 William D. Scott - Master    

A. W. Bristow   - Senior Warden         

William G. Ellis - Junior Warden        

Hiram Klette    - Secretary        

William Respass - Treasurer        

R. U. Perry     - Senior Deacon         

John McCullum   - Junior Deacon         

William Striger - Steward and Tyler    

Brother Foster then proclaimed the new lodge law-     

fully constituted, and its officers regularly installed.

There being no further business, the Lodge was closed.    

      The Dispensation for Bradford Lodge was officially granted by the Grand Lodge or Kentucky on October 2, and was brought to the Lodge by Brother Foster acting as a commission or proxy from Grand Master Thomas C. Orear, who could not act in person.

     The Lodge was named in memory or Brother Daniel Bradford or Lexington Lodge No.1. Brother Bradford was a highly respected Grand Lodge Officer, serving as Grand Master 1815-1816. He also served the Grand Lodge as Grand Secretary between the years 1802-1814, and again 1820 to 1830. He was Deputy Grand Master 1814-1815, serving a total or twenty two years as a Grand Lodge Officer.

     Early Lodge records were not as complete as the records of today. Much pertinent information was either not recorded or has been misplaced. It is believed that the Brethren who rounded Bradford Lodge were former mem­bers of Good Faith Lodge No. 95. Good Faith Lodge was chartered in 1835. Brother A. W. Bristow, who was install­ed as the Lodge's first Senior Warden in 1841, and as Master in August of the following year when the Lodge was granted a Charter, was a Past Master of Good Faith Lodge.

      It was a difficult period of time in American History for Masonry, and perhaps one of the worst times to attempt forming a new Masonic Lodge. Masonry was still reeling from the affects of the William Morgan Affair, and the Anti­-Masonic Warfare of 1836.

     William Morgan was a Mason. In 1826 he supposedly authored a book entitled "Illustrations of Freemasonry" in which he exposed secret rituals. The book was never published. Morgan disappeared at Fort Niagara, New York, September 19, 1826. His disappearance caused Freemasons much difficulty in the following years.

     To the Anti-Masonic groups of the period, and im­pressed upon the public mind, Masons were charged and convicted of the abduction and murder of Morgan.

      Animosity for the fraternity grew. Anti-Masonic newspapers were started. Membership in Freemasonry de­clined. Between 1827 and 1835 two thirds of New York's one hundred twenty seven lodges surrendered their charters. Every lodge in the state of Vermont surrendered charters, and the Vermont Grand Lodge ceased to function.

     The Anti-Masonic atmosphere that began and quickly spread through, the New England states, traveled far west

and south.

      The Grand Lodge of North Carolina reported in 1835

"There has been a rapid diminution in the receipts of the Grand Lodge, so much so, that in a short time it will be necessary to close our Grand Lodge or keep it open at individual expense."

     In 1836 the Georgia Grand Lodge issued the following statement; "Something must be done for the cause of Masonry, or our noble and ancient Institution must fall to the ground."

     Masonic leaders claimed to know nothing more about the Morgan Affair than was communicated in the public papers. But they did not believe Morgan had been murdered, because, "no evidence of the fact was ever adduced, though all earth was stirred to get it.” Masons argued that publishing an Exposition of Freemasonry was not an act which would call down such punishment from the hands of the craft.

     The very fact that William Morgan had published abroad his determination to issue an Exposition, called the public attention to him, and his disappearance would infallibly be laid to the door of Masonry.

     The Anti-Masonic Warfare of 1836 was an action of the Pennsylvania Legislature. A committee was appointed to investigate secret societies, and especially the "evils of Freemasonry", and also to determine, if possible, the fate of William Morgan. The Chairman of this committee, Thaddeus Stevens was a Gettysburg attorney, openly denounced Masonry. Stevens was one of the prime organizers of the Anti-Masonry party in Pennsylvania. His fanatical opposition, had been said, without proof, to have grown out of being denied membership in a lodge in his home state of Vermont.

      The proceedings lasted several months. Over one hundred witnesses were called to testify before the committee. Included among the members of the Fraternity was George M. Dallas, the present Vice-President, and George Wolf, the former Governor of Pennsylvania. They, along with many Past Grand Masters, and less known but just as respected Masons, refused to take the witness stand and be sworn in. The Grand Lodge Secretary and individual Lodge Secretaries refused to produce their subpoenaed Lodge records. Instead, those Brothers protested the proceedings in writing. Chair­man Stevens had -them held under guard and threatened with imprisonment. They were later released by the state Legis­lature before the Chairman made his final report in June, 1836.

      The proceedings failed to confirm any allegations of wrongdoing by Freemasonry.

      In the case of William Morgan, it was learned that a Colonel Jewett, the U. S. Superintendent at Fort Niagara, along with several other Brothers escorted Morgan into Canada. The Canadian Brothers were to confine him until arrangements could be made to send him out of the country. Colonel Jewett declared it was not the intention on Masons to do Morgan any harm--only to send him out of the country, and they would provide for his family in his absence.

      There were rumors some years later that Morgan was seen in London, England.

Chairman Stevens, final report claimed the committee made good on the following points;

1. Crime had been concealed under the Masonic obligations.

2. Masonic appeals have been made to influence Judicial Tribunals.

3. Frequent and effective applications have been made for aid and support for Brother Masons who were candidates for office.

4. Masons belonging to a party known to be in the minority, had been elected to office by the aid of the Masonic votes of the opposing party.

The Chairman's report had far-reaching and long lasting effects.   

      Preachers took to the pulpit and journalists to their pens to denounce Masonry as subversive and anti-Christian. Thousands of Masons burned their aprons and vowed never to enter a Lodge Hall again. Lodges were attacked by angry mobs, many were burned and destroyed. Others were perm­anently closed.

      It was the most severe blow dealt to the Masonic Institution in this country. It was not until late in the century that Freemasonry began to recover from the affects.

      In Kentucky between the years 1836-1843, a total of twenty six Lodges were formed. Of those twenty six Lodges, eighteen became defunct before the end of the century, many within only a few years after being chartered. Four other Lodges, formed just prior to the Movement, became defunct during the year of the proceedings, probably as a direct result of the Anti-Masonic Warfare.

     Because of these events, it took a great deal of determination and dedication to make Bradford a successful Lodge. In some areas of the country, especially small rural areas, Masonry was not looked upon favorably.

     The Brethren who had the courage to form this Lodge were fully aware of the many difficulties and embarrassments that had been cast in the way of Masonry. They survived because they had a sense of dignity and self reverence. They took great pride in conducting them­selves and their assemblies with due regard to the solem­nity of the Masonic doctrine.

     It was imperative for the Lodge to gain proper respect from the surrounding farming community. This was accomp­lished by strictly enforcing Masonic principles. Any public display by a member which might bring unfavorable reaction upon the Lodge was dealt with immediately.

Members were suspended or expelled for; public drunkenness, intemperance, un-Masonic conduct, wife abuse, and in one case, for assaulting and insulting a Master Mason's daughter with evil intent.

     Brothers brought charges against other Brothers when necessary to preserve the good name of the Lodge, and Masonry in general.

     Brothers who were suspended or expelled were required to appear before the Lodge to answer the charges. Usually, suspended or expelled Brethren were later reinstated after making a written apology to the Lodge.

     On the other hand, the Lodge was very generous to local needy families, especially to needy Brothers and families of deceased Brethren.

A charitable committee was appointed. Its purpose was to inquire into the circumstances of indigent Brethren, or their widows and orphans; and afford them necessary relief. School tuition was paid by the Lodge for as long as necessary, or when requested. Clothing was provided to all those in need if the committee so recommended. Practically no one was turned down without some assistance. 

The Charitable Committee also made sure that all local needy children had shoes to wear, especially to school. They visited these needy families on a regular basis to provide those shoes.

Although membership was small in numbers, and the Lodge treasury thin, they always found ways to aid the destitute. Slowly, but surely, Bradford Lodge became a respected part of the Independence community.

The Early Years

     At the Grand Lodge Proceedings of 1842, the Committee on lodges Under Dispensation, made the following report which was read and concurred in;

     "The Committee have examined the work of Bradford Lodge Under Dispensation, and find it in accordance with the ancient order, and would recommend that a Charter issue to it, under the name of Bradford Lodge No. 123,

F. & A. M., and that Brother A. W. Bristow be named as first Master, Brother William G. Ellis as first Senior Warden, and Brother John McCullum as first Junior Warden."

     On August 31, in ceremonies at Grand Lodge Masonic Hall in Lexington, Grand Master Henry Wingate installed Brother A. W. Bristow as Master of Bradford Lodge.

     The following Charter was granted;

In the name of and by authority

of the

     Grand Lodge of Kentucky,

     To all whom it may come, greetings;

     Whereas it hath been duly represented to the undersigned Grand Officers of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky, by a competent number of Brethren of the Society of Ancient York Free and Accepted Masons, residing in the town of Independence and its vicinity, county of Kenton, and state of aforesaid, praying that be chartered and authorized to organize and proceed to work as a Lodge, and having worked under a Dispensation from the Grand Lodge, and their work and proceedings having been reported and confirmed, and it appearing to be for the benefit of the craft in general, as well as for the aforesaid Brethren, that their prayers should be granted - Therefore,

     Know ye, that we, the undersigned Grand Officers of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky, by and with the consent of said Grand Lodge, do hereby constitute our trusty and well beloved Brethren, the worshipful A. W. Bristow to be the first Master, William G. Ellis Senior Warden, and John McCullum Junior Warden, together with all such other true and lawful Brethren as may be permitted to associate with them, to assemble and work as a regularly constituted Lodge of Free and Accepted York Masons, in the town of Independence, county of Kenton, and state of aforesaid, to be designated and known by the name and style of Bradford Lodge No. 123. Hereby requiring and enjoining all regular Lodges to hold, acknowledge and respect them as such. And we do hereby grant and commit to the Master, Wardens, and Brethren of aforesaid, full power and authority to receive members, enter Apprentices, pass Fellowcrafts, to raise Master Masons, and to perform all other work of the craft, agreeably to the ancient customs and usages of Ancient York Free Masons, and the ordinances and regulations of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky, and no otherwise. And also, to choose a Master, Wardens, and other officers half yearly on the anniversaries of the two Saints Johns', and to exact from their members such fees as they shall judge necessary for the support of their said Lodge, the relief of their Brethren in distress, and the regular payment of their annual contri­butions towards the Grand Charity Fund. And we do hereby require and commend the Master. Wardens, and Brethren aforesaid, and their successors, to record in their books, along with this present Charter, their own regulations and by-laws and their whole acts and proceedings from time to time, as they may occur. And also to correspond with the Grand Lodge, whenever occasion may require; and to attend the meetings thereof regularly; by their Represent­atives or Deputies; and also to pay due respect and obed­ience to all such ordinances and instructions as they may from time to time receive from the Grand Lodge or from the Grand Master for the time being. And lastly, the Master, Wardens, and Brethren aforesaid, in behalf of themselves and their successors do, by accepting hereof, solemnly engage, strictly to conform to all and every of the foregoing requisitions and commands, and at all times to acknowledge and recognize the Grand Lodge, and the Grand Master of Kentucky as their superiors, and as such, to obey them, or either of them, in all things appertaining to the craft.

     Done in Grand Lodge, at Lexington. In testimony whereof, we have hereunto affixed our names and caused the seal of said Grand Lodge to be affixed, attested by the Grand Secretary this thirty first day of August 1842 AL. 5842.

 The Charter was signed by the Grand Lodge Officers;

 Henry Wingate   --   Grand Master       

Leander M. Cox --   Deputy Grand Master    

Bryan R. Young --   Grand Senior Warden    

William Holloway -- Grand Junior Warden    

Phillip Swigert --   Grand Secretary       

      The original Charter was lost about 1853, and was re-issued by the Grand Lodge. However, it wasn't until 1898 that the re-issued Charter was framed and displayed in the Lodge Hall. It is the same one presently displayed in the Lodge Hall.

     The first set of bylaws contained twenty five articles and were similar to our present day by-laws. However, there were a few interesting differences. The following is the original set of by-laws adopted in 1841;

     We, the members of Bradford Lodge No. 123 of Free and Adopted Ancient York Masons held at Independence, Kenton County, state of Kentucky, subordinate to the Grand Lodge of state aforesaid, and authorized by an act of the Grand Lodge, in August, 1841 in granting us a lawful warrant, under which we adopt the following By-Laws, better to regulate our proceedings and govern our meetings with good order and decorum.

 Article 1

     This Lodge shall meet on the second Saturday in any month, at two o’clock PM except in cases of extreme emergency.

 Article 2

     The officers of the Lodge shall consist of a Master, two Wardens, Secretary, Treasurer, two Deacons, and Tyler, a standing committee of three, a charitable committee of three, and two Stewards, all of whom shall be chosen by ballot, at the last regular meeting preceding each of the Festivals of St. Johns. Each member not prohibited by subsequent articles hereof, shall be entitled to one vote. In case of a like number of votes appearing for two candidates for the same office, the Worshipful Master Presiding, shall be entitled to a second vote which shall decide the pending election.

 Article 3

     It shall be the duty of the Worshipful Master to preside at every meeting; to see the By-laws and regula­tions of this Lodge, and those of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky strictly adhered to, positively and regularly obeyed, and enforced; and not suffer any of the Ancient Landmarks to be removed.

 Article 4

     In the absence of the Worshipful Master, the Senior Warden takes the chair; in absence of both the Worshipful Master and Senior Warden, the Junior Warden takes the chair; but if the Master and both Wardens be absent, the Brethren have a right to call an experienced Brother from amongst the members of the Lodge to preside for the evening; but either the Warden, or Brother elected Master protem, have the privilege of waving their right in favor of a worthy Past Master present.

 Article 5

     It shall be the duty of Secretary to receive all moneys due the Lodge, and pay them immediately to the Treasurer, taking his receipt for the same; to open an account of debit and credit with each member of the Lodge, to keep minutes of the proceedings of the Lodge each night; to make out all reports regarding the Lodge, to call on each Brother for his dues monthly; and to have his account balanced with the Lodge at each of the Festivals or ST. John, and often if required by the Lodge; to keep a register of delinquencies, suspensions, and expulsions; likewise of initiations, passing’s and raisings; to fill up and register all diplomas when directed by the Worship­ful Master; and as a compensation for his services, he shall be entitled to receive one dollar from each member receiving a diploma, and exempted from paying his monthly dues.

 Article 6

It shall be the duty of the Treasurer to receive moneys from the Secretary, giving his receipt for the same and pay them out by order of the Lodge; to keep a true account of his receipts and disbursements; to have his accounts balanced at each of the Festivals and oftener if required by the Lodge.

 Article 7

It shall be the duty of the Deacons to assist in regulating the Lodge; to accommodate visiting Brethren; to prepare, receive, and conduct in candidates, and per­form other duties agreeable to ancient forms and customs.

 Article 8

     It shall be the duty of the Tyler to deliver all Summonses, to take charge of all the furniture committed to his care, and keep it in good order during the recess of the Lodge; to tile the door while the Lodge is engaged in business, and admit no person without the consent of the Worshipful Master; and as a compensation shall be entitled to Deceive twenty five cents each regular meeting; and twenty five cents for each Lodge summoned and exempt from paying his dues.

 Article 9

     It shall be the duty of the Worshipful Master to appoint a committee of character.

 Article 10

     It shall be the duty of the charitable committee to inquire into the circumstances of indigent Brethren, or their widows and orphans, and afford them the necessary relief; and to enable them so to do, they shall have power to draw on the Treasurer during the recess of the Lodge, for any sum of money not exceeding ten dollars, of which they shall make report at the next regular meeting, which shall be entered on, the minutes of the evening.

 Article 11

     It shall be the duty of the Stewards to procure and take charge of all refreshments, to procure furniture and articles of convenience for the Lodge when directed and approved by the Worshipful Master and not otherwise.

 Article 12

     No member shall be eligible to any office in the Lodge but a Master Mason; all who are six months in arrears to the Lodge shall be disqualified for office or voting in any ease until his dues are paid up with the Lodge.

 Article 13

     Any person applying to become a Mason shall make his application in writing, at a regular meeting, recommended by a Master Mason and seconded by another, then it shall lie over for one month, at which time the committee of character shall report his character, the candidate shall then be taken upon and balloted for. 

Article 14

     On balloting for the demission of a candidate, if two or more black balls appear"tl1e candidate shall be rejected; but if one black ball appears the Master may demand the reason, and the Brother who gave the black ball shall openly declare his reason; if in opinion of the Lodge it shall be a good and sufficient reason, the candidate shall be rejected; but should the Brother hesitate or refuse to give his reason, the candidate shall be admitted on the one black ball; but in no case shall there be more than two balloting for the same candidate.

 Article 15

     Any Brother wishing to speak in the Lodge shall rise and address the chair. No Brother shall be allowed to speak more than twice on the same subject without per­mission from the chair; and on all questions the will of the Lodge shall be ascertained by holding up of hands or ballot, and a majority shall govern where it is not other-wise provided for.

 Article 16

     All political or religious disputes are positively prohibited within the Lodge. No member shall disclose any of the transactions or opinions which are given in the Lodge (especially the proceedings relative to the investigation of a candidate) to any person except it is to a Brother Mason. No private conversation shall be held within the Lodge during its session. The penalty of a violation of any part of this article, shall be a reprimand, suspension, or expulsion, as the majority shall decree.

Article 17

     Any Brother who enters the Lodge in a state of intoxication, shall for the first offense be reprimanded, for the second, suspended for any length of time not exceeding one year. After being restored, should he again be guilty of the same, he shall be liable to an expulsion from all privileges of Masonry forever.

 Article 18

     No person shall be admitted into the Lodge for a less sum than fifteen dollars; five to accompany his petition, and five dollars at passing and raising; but in case of rejection the money shall be refunded; if the candidate is received and does not come foreword within six months, the money that accompanies the petition shall belong to the Lodge.

 Article 19

     Every member shall pay twenty five cents at each meeting whether he attends it or not.

 Article 20

     Any person applying to become a member of this Lodge shall produce a certificate from the Lodge of which he was last a member, or give good and sufficient reasons why such certificate was not produced, whereupon; the proceeding shall be the same as with a candidate for initiation, and Upon his admission shall pay into the hands of the Secretary two dollars as funds of the Lodge.

 Article 21

     When a Lodge of emergency is called for the accommodation of a Brother, the expense of the Lodge shall be paid by the Brother for whose use the Lodge was convened; but in no case shall the expense exceed five dollars.

 Article 22

     No degree shall be conferred after the first until a suitable proficiency is made in the preceding degree and the candidate is examined in open Lodge, and a ballot found in his favor, except by the consent of the Lodge.

 Article 23

     These laws shall be frequently read in the Lodge, and no alteration shall be made therein unless it receives the concurrence of two thirds of all the members of the Lodge.

 Article 24

     It is the duty of every Free Mason to live in peace, harmony, and love with all mankind; to despise calumny, hatred, and malice, to practice universal charity and benevolence, to avoid law suits, quarrels, and control versies, to reconcile all differences between Brethren in their respective Lodges, or in the Grand Lodge, unless in the case of real or personnel estate being in contest between them, this to be at their own opinion.

 Article 25

     No article of these By-laws shall be so construed as to pass the Ancient Landmarks of Masonry any there­in contained to the contrary not withstanding.

     Officers were elected twice yearly until 1859. By then the Grand Lodge Constitution had been amended calling for election of officers for subordinate Lodges once yearly, on ST. Johns Day, December 210 The By-laws were changed to coincide, and since that time, all el­ections have been held on ST. Johns Day, December 27, except when that date fell on a Sunday. In which case, election was usually held during the December stated meeting, or the Saturday preceding ST. Johns Day.

     On several occasions, up to and including 1917, the newly elected officers were not installed until the first stated meeting of the New Year.

     In the late 1800's several public installation ceremonies were held at a local church. Meals were pre­pared by a Ladies Aid Society, or by Bradford Lodge member’s families. These ceremonies were well attended, but this practice stopped about 1895 after the Grand Lodge declared installation ceremonies should not be opened to the public.

     In 1915, the Grand Lodge changed the rule, and declared that officers of a Lodge can be installed in public ceremonies, and without dispensation of the Grand Master.

     Officers were not elected on an advancing rotation basis. There was nothing in the by-laws or the Grand Lodge Constitution at the time governing this practice.

     In 1887, a resolution was ordered to amend the by-laws, whereby the Junior Warden would advance to Senior Warden, and the Senior Warden would advance to Master.

The resolution was voted down by the members present as being unconstitutional.

     The by-laws were frequently read in the Lodge. Any resolution to amend them had to be made in writing.

     Ironically, the first petition for degrees received in the Lodge was rejected. A local rarmer, H. M. Marshall, petitioned in January or 1842, but his petition was not accepted when ballots were cast.

     During the first year or operation, eight other petitions were received. All were balloted on and accepted. In September 1843, H.M. Marshall petitioned the Lodge again. This time he was accepted.

     Unfortunately, there are no records pinpointing the location of the first Lodge Hall. It is believed to have been just outside the city or Independence, possibly on J McCullum Road. A small, one story, frame building, at the edge of a large field, with no other buildings close by.

     In July, 1846, a committee was appointed to confer with a Brother Thomas Wilson in relation to building a Lodge room in the town of Independence. The Committee later reported favorable, and the Lodge paid Brother Wilson $225,000 for erecting and enclosing a Lodge room forty feet long by twenty feet wide.

     This Lodge room was in a building on the west side of Main street, Independence, at the corner of Bank lick Station Road. The first meeting in the new Lodge Hall was the June stated meeting, 1847. Except for a few months during 1901 and 1902, when the Lodge met in the International Order of Odd fellows Hall while this hall was undergoing some repair work, it would be the home of Bradford Lodge until 1921.

     A wood burning stove was purchased for the Lodge Hall in 1848. It was replaced by a new stove in 1895, at a cost of seven dollars ninety five cents. The old stove was donated to the local International Order of Odd fellows.

     In 1854 a lock was purchased and placed on the Lodge room door.

     A Doctor John M. Chambers rented office space in the basement of the Lodge building. Dr. Chambers became a member of Bradford, and served as Master during the year 1905.

     In 1891, while Brother Chambers was serving as Secretary, he presented Worshipful Master J. E. Bristow with a gavel which came from the home or George Washington at Mt. Vernon. There are no records indicating just how Brother Chambers came to have the historic Gavel in his possession.

     In 1857 Oliver H. Fisk was initiated, passed, and raised at the September stated meeting. The Lodge had earlier requested authorization room the Grand Lodge, stating a case or emergency, as Mr. Fisk was serving in the United States Army.

     The authorization came in a communication room Grand Master T. N. Wise; "I do authorize you to act upon the petition or Oliver H. Fisk or the U. S. Army, and in found worthy, to confer upon him the degrees of Entered Apprentice, Fellowcraft, and Master Mason, without waiting the usual time prescribed by the Grand Lodge of Kentucky.

     In 1880, Past Grand Master Harvey Wilson (PGM 1859­1860) petitioned Bradford Lodge for membership, and was accepted. Brother Wilson was formerly of Holloway Lodge No. 153, Fleming County, which had been a defunct Lodge since 1847.

     There were several changes in the By-laws prior to 1900. Most changes affecting dues and fees.

     A complete revision was made in 1851. Three hundred copies were printed at a cost of twelve dollars. The Lodge had twenty nine members at the time. Fees for initiation were raised from five dollars to ten dollars. Fees for passing, and raising remained at five dollars.

     Dues were decreased twice prior to 1900. The first time was 1844, when they were lowered by fifty percent, from the "twenty five cents per month" to twenty five cents every two months. The second decrease occurred in 1876, when they were lowered to two dollars yearly, after being raised to three dollars per year in 1868.

     A resolution, in 1888, to raise dues back to three dollars yearly, lost by a vote of members. Going into the twentieth century, Lodge dues were two dollars yearly.

     The By-laws were completely revised again in 1874. It was to be the last complete revision until 1981 - one hundred seven years later.

Into the Twentieth Century

     Going into the twentieth century, Bradford had less than fifty members. Membership fluctuated greatly year by year. For example, in 1895 there were forty four members. By 1916 the number was down to twenty nine, the same as way back in 1852.

     Freemasonry in Kentucky was on the increase. Many new Lodges were being formed. But because of the sparsely populated surrounding area, the slow rate of membership growth would continue for Bradford Lodge for the next forty five years. During those forty five years our nation would see two World Wars, and a depression. After the second of those World Wars, an historic change in the American way of life began to take place. A change that would greatly affect the Lodge's membership growth.

     On ST. Johns Day 1917, Brother Howard Stephens was elected Master for the ensuing year. Installation of the newly elected officers were postponed until the February stated meeting. Before Brother Stephens could be installed as Master, Past Master John M. Chambers presented the following protest;

     "To the Worshipful Master, Wardens, and members of Bradford Lodge No. 123 F. & A. M. at Independence, Kentucky;

     Under the jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky." I, John M. Chambers, a member of said Bradford Lodge No. 123, do most respectfully protest and object to the installation of Brother Howard Stephens as Master of Bradford Lodge No. 123.

     Reason for said protest:

First; Brother Stephens has never been installed as Junior or Senior Warden in, or of, any Masonic Lodge in Kentucky. Secondly; the constitution of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky requires that to be eligible to be installed as a Master of a Lodge he must have previously been installed as a Warden of a Lodge in Kentucky."

     Brother Stephens was not installed as Master for the year 1918. Worshipful Master E. R. Binder was re-elected for a consecutive year. However, Brother Stephens was elected Senior Warden for the following year, and was elected, installed, and served as Master for the year 1920.

     At the stated meeting, July 1921, the following

resolution was read;

     "Whereas the Hall now used by Bradford Lodge No. 123 F. & A. M. in Independence, Kentucky does not afford sufficient room for conferring the degrees and the comfortable seating of its members and visitors; Therefore be it resolved that Bradford Lodge No. 123 F. & A. M. change its place of meeting from its present to that of the Hall known as the second story in the Bank of Independence, in Independence, Kentucky, for twelve months.

     Having complied with the requirements of the Grand Lodge of F. & A. M. of Kentucky. The resolution was signed by Past Binder and J. T. stone.

Masters E. R.

     The new Hall was rented for the sum of fifty dollars per year.

     In late 1933 a plan was adopted to present each Brother being raised with a white leathern or lambskin apron. One dozen of the aprons were ordered from the Pettibone Manufacturing Company, 628 Sycamore Street, Cincinnati, at a cost of ten dollars sixty four cents. The plan continues today, and is considered a very important presentation and raising ceremonies.

     Although Masonry was growing in Kentucky since 1900, (over two hundred Lodges were founded between 1900 and 1930) Bradford Lodge was struggling. In a few years the Lodge would celebrate its one hundredth anniversary, and membership was still below fifty. And now our great nation was in the midst of a depression. As peoples jobs, and everyday lives were, greatly affected by economic poverty, so was Masonry. During the depression years nearly fifty Kentucky Lodges had their Charters suspended.

     (A lodge's charter is suspended when reduced to less than fifteen members, or to such number active members that it fails to "function as an active lodge)

     The officers and members of Bradford Lodge became concerned with dwindling membership. In early 1934, a discussion was had on the collection of delinquent dues.

     A committee was appointed to have full power and consent of the Lodge to devise ways and means to best assist the delinquent Brethren to good standing, and the Lodge to retain its membership, as much as possible.

The committee adopted the following resolution, and mailed a copy to each member that was two years or more in arrears for dues.

This resolution was mailed on May 4, 1934;

     "Whereas, it is the desire of Bradford Lodge to retain all its members, and in so far as the Lodge is financially able to assist those members who, by cause of the depression, were unable to meet their obligations; A finance Committee was appointed and given full power to act in the best interest of the members and the Lodge. We, The committee thus appointed, desire to place before you this most liberal offer; Upon your payment to the Secretary, of one year’s dues ($6.00) he will receipt your dues paid up to December 27, 1934. It will be left entirely to your own option, should you in the future become able, and so desire, to pay a part, or all of the remission. We are setting Thursday, June 14, 1934 (our regular meeting night) as the last day in which you may except or reject this very liberal offer. This will be quite a setback to the Lodge's treasury. The Lodge is willing to make the sacrifice, and we earnestly urge you to make every effort to remain with the Order."

     There was one hundred sixty five dollars, fifty eight cents in the hands of the. Treasurer at the April meeting when the resolution was adopted. Twenty three responded to the resolution by the June stated meeting.

     In 1936, just a few years before our nation would be drawn into World War II. Masonry was under attack in Europe. Hitler dissolved Lodges throughout Germany. He had the property of Lodges and members confiscated, and placed thousands of Masons in concentration camps.

     In Kentucky, only one lodge had been formed since 1928, none since 1930. Bradford Lodge, now in it’s ninety fifth year had less than sixty members. The resolution to retain membership that had been offered in 1934, was offered again.

     Lodge dues had been raised three times since 1900, and were, since 1927, six dollars yearly. Fees for the degrees were ten dollars each degree. Since 1934, stated meetings had been changed to the second Thursday of each month, at eight o'clock PM.

The Centennial

     November 22, 1941. Lodge was opened in form in the Master Mason degree in the auditorium of Simon Kenton High School at seven thirty PM. Three Brethren were raised. After which a meal was prepared in the school cafeteria.

     Brother Orie S. Ware Past Grand Master 1913-1914, introduced Grand Master Oba Fields and Deputy Grand Master William Carter. In his speech, Grand Master Fields admonished us to "all stand together for Masonry's sake, and this great and free country in which we live."

     Also introduced was Brother James Bristow, a member of Boone Union Lodge No. 304, Union, Kentucky. Brother Bristow gave a short talk, during which he informed the Brethren that he' was the son of A. W. Bristow, who was the very first Senior Warden of Bradford Lodge back in 1841.

     The day started with rain, which later turned to hail. The temperature dropped rapidly and it began were represented at the centennial celebration.

The Grand Master and Deputy Grand Master had driven through the weather from Nashville, Tennessee in order to attend. All Grand Lodge Officers were sent formal invitations. Of those who were unable to attend, communications were received;

     From Grand Secretary A. E. Orton, "With fraternal greetings and all good wishes, and hoping you will have a large attendance and a very happy meeting."

     From Grand Treasurer S. A. Phillips, "Greetings and best wishes to everyone, and an abundance of happiness and prosperity through all the days that lie ahead of us."

     From Grand Senior Warden E. B. Beaty, "My best wishes and my congratulations on your centennial anniversary."

After one hundred years, Bradford had seventy one members, and in the hands of the Treasurer, two hundred twelve dollars, sixty four cents. Within a few months our country was at war. At a stated meeting a motion was seconded and concurred that any Brother of Bradford Lodge serving in the Armed Forces shall be relieved from paying annual dues for the duration of the war.

     On several occasions members stood in silent prayer for all in service to our country. During the war the Lodge purchased United States Defense Bonds totaling nearly one thousand dollars.

     The following Brethren of the Lodge served in the Armed Forces during the war: 

Charles Edwin Baker

Walter Raymond Dorman

James Leroy Dorman

Ralph Benjamin Egelston

William Frey Jr.

William Fredrick Miller

Paul Edwin Tattershall

Benjamin Franklin Thomas

Lawrence Lee Zarilli

No lives were lost.

     The Lodge received communications from several of the Brethren telling of visiting Lodges in foreign countries. Upon their return some very interesting discussions were had in the Lodge concerning those visits.

     In 1947, during the Lodge’s one hundred sixth year, membership reached one hundred. But at the end of 1953 , only six years later, membership had increased to two hundred ten, and by 1959, was at three hundred one.

     After World War II had ended, the American people sought a better way of life. People who had lived all, or most of their lives in the cities, began migrating to suburban areas. All across the nation the great "move to suburbia" was on. As the population of the community increased, so did Lodge membership. What, up until now, had been a Lodge made up primarily of farmers, began to represent a cross section of America, men from all walks of life, and all types of businesses and professions.

     The very rapid growth of Bradford Lodge was not conducive to Masonry throughout Kentucky, however. From 1945 through 1958, only fourteen new Lodges were formed.

     At the St. Johns Day meeting in 1949, Brother Sanford Roberts was elected Master for the ensuing year. Install­ation ceremonies were postponed until the January stated meeting. During the interim, Brother Roberts became ill, and was hospitalized. Although Masonic regulations require the Master to be installed before the other officers, due to the unusual circumstances, the other officers were installed January 12.

     Five days later, January 17, the Lodge met in called communication at the Lodge Hall. From there the attending Brethren went to Booth Hospital, where Brother Roberts was confined to bed, and duly installed Brother Sanford L. Roberts as Master of Bradford Lodge.

     Unfortunately, Worshipful Master Roberts was never able to open Lodge as Master. He died February 14, less than a month after being installed, never having left the hospital.

     Until 1952 candidates were initiated at the stated meeting in which their petitions were balloted on, and accepted, even if there was only one candidate. This meant that occasionally work was performed in more than one degree at a stated meeting, and sometimes all three degrees.

     In February of that year, a motion was seconded and carried to initiate candidates in groups. It proved to be a successful plan, and one which the Lodge still uses.

     In February of 1953, a meeting was called for the purpose of conducting Masonic Funeral Services for Brother J Samuel Henry Folmer, who passed away at the age of eighty-seven.

     Brother Folmer was initiated into Bradford Lodge in November 1910, passed December 1910, and was raised February 1911. He was elected Secretary for 1912, and faithfully served at that position for forty years. Poor health forced Brother Folmer to resign at the end of 1951.

     In 1949 the Lodge had voted Unanimously to send Brother Folmer a life time paid up dues card in recognition of his outstanding service. Brother Folmer was succeeded as Secretary by Brother Allie Allnutt.

     In 1959, twenty four robes were purchased from the Fettibone Manufacturing Company to be used in the con­ference of the Master Mason degree. Also purchased at about the same time was the projector and sixty seven slides that are used in the Lectures of the three degrees.

     Rent for the Lodge Hall, which had remained at fifty dollars per year since 1921, was increased to one hundred dollars yearly in 1950. Two years later it was increased to three hundred dollars, and in1958 was raised again, this time to four hundred dollars yearly.

     In early 1968, the Bank of Independence notified the Lodge, that, due to an increase in business, the Bank was desirous of occupying the second floor of the Bank building. A building committee was appointed consisting of Lodge Trustees Robert Porter, Lewis Gabriel, and Allie Allnut, in addition to Brother Raymond Giles, Past Masters William Appel" James Bowling, Eddie Reed, and Clayton Ledford. Master Gary Gemmer also appointed himself to the committee.

     The committee was empowered to select a parcel of ground suitable for the erection of a Lodge Hall. In June the Building Committee reported the purchase of the lot, and the progress being made toward the erection of the hall.

     A contract was awarded for the construction of the new Lodge Hall to Brother Fred Reinhardt. On November 3, the Lodge met in called communication for the purpose of laying the cornerstone.

     The ceremony was conducted by Grand Master John W. Chandler. Brother William Appel, Chairman of Arrangements, arranged a large parade in which the following took part:

Independence Fire Department

Kenton County Police

Covington Demo lay

White Shrine

Revellets Drill Team

Latonia Youth Club

Fez Zone

Blue Bells

Four Steps

Bradford Star Chapter Float Trojonettes

High Steppers

Clowns Council for the Deaf

Queen City Cavaliers

Jobs Daughters Float Golden Knights Ludlow Bugle-Corps

Independence Christian Church Float

Oola Kahn Grotto

Kisbmee Grotto

 The cornerstone contained the following articles:

 Copy of the Building Resolution November Lodge Bulletin

Some old coins given by Brother Robert Kramer

A history of the Lodge

An old copy of the By-laws

A copy of the Centennial Program

Photograph of Brother C. H. Coleman, Senior Past Master

List of Officers of Bradford Lodge List of Grand Lodge Officers

Front page of the day’s newspaper

Name of Brother William Stephens, who provided the working tools for the ceremony

A list of clergymen belonging to Bradford Lodge

November Masonic Home Journal

Name of Fred J. Reinhardt, contractor Roster of Bradford Lodge members

Announcement from Grand Lodge 'of cornerstone lying

Picture of Lodge Officers List of units in parade

A copy of the cornerstone laying program

It was a gala occasion, and one· of the most significant days in the history of the Lodge. The first meeting in the new Lodge Hall was a called meeting in June 1969, for the purpose of conferring the Master Mason degree on five Brethren.

     Lodge was opened by the following Past Masters, according to their seniority; 

Past Master Clifford Coleman (1921)     Worshipful Master       

     Past Master Allie Allnutt (1921)     Senior Warden      

     Past Master William Folmer (1925)     Junior Warden      

     Past Master Robert Porter (1930)     Senior Deacon      

     Past Master David Castleman (1931)     Junior Deacon    

The Lodge Hall was dedicated November 22, 1970.

Past Master William Appel was in charge of arrangements for the dedication ceremony. The building was dedicated by Brother Effinger, Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Kentucky, assisted by the following Grand Lodge Officers;

 R. Cliff Wilder Deputy Grand Master 

Dr. Robert Wilhite Grand Senior Warden 

Rev. Thomas Dicken Grand Junior Warden

J. C. McClanahan Grand Secretary

Rev. Roy Lamberth Grand Chaplain

Frank Sparks Grand Sword Bearer

George Justice Grand Pursuivant   

      The subject of the Grand Masters talk was "Masons should practice what they preach."

     The comfortable theatre seats used in the Lodge were purchased from the Liberty Theatre, Covington, when it was  demolished by a wrecking crew in 1974. They were repaired, painted, and installed in 1975. Also in 1975, Brother Al Cox presented the Lodge with the beautiful stainless steel Masonic emblem on the front of the building.

Brother Allie Allnutt resigned as Secretary at the end of 1973, after serving the Lodge in that capacity since 1952. Brother Emmett Burnside, who was then elected to that position, became only the third Secretary since Brother Samuel Folmer was elected in 1911. Brothers Folmer and Allnutt combined for a grand total of sixty two years. A very impressive record. And one that may be unmatched in any Masonic Lodge in this country.

The never ending efforts of these two Masonic leaders helped to make Bradford Lodge what it is today. They gave of themselves, unselfishly, and Masonry in general benefitted. They exemplified the true spirit of the Masonic Institution, and influenced numerous lives, both Masonic and Non-Masonic.

Brother Allnutt passed away August 9, 1976 at the age of seventy six. He was initiated in Bradford Lodge April 8, 1922, passed May 13, 1922, and raised June 10,1922. Brother Allnutt was Master in 1924 and again in 1944. 

It was in 1911 when the Lodges of District No. 27 began their annual outdoor raisings. District No. 27 consists of sixteen lodges in Boone and Kenton Counties. Bradford Lodge became the host Lodge for the event in 1979.

The ceremony was held at the Bullitsburg Baptist Assembly Grounds, in Boone County, August 25, with the Bradford Fellowcraft Team conferring the second section of the Master Mason degree on Brother Richard Hayden Derickson. Nearly six hundred Brethren attended, with many coming from several neighboring states.

Bradford Fellowcraft Team;

Captain PM Gary Halberstadt

K.S. PM Clayton Ledford

G.S.W PM Henry Larison

G.S.D SW Richard N. Smith

G.J.D PM Alvin Cox

First Ruf. JW John Thoburn

Second Ruf. WM Paul Ball

Third Ruf. PM James Bowling

First Trav. PM Gregory Larison

Second Trav. SD Fred Schnurf

Third Trav. PM Gary Halberstadt

Benjamin JD Frank Dingus

Benzaleel JS Glen Shmate

Belshazzar Ray Orr

Jethro Grant Browning

Jedidiah J.D. Fugate

Zebulum John Cole

Zephaniah Larry Zachary

Zedekiah Bailey Whittamore

Sea Capt. Harold Buxton

WFM & Eavesdropper Ulysses Browning

Grand Secretary PM Louis P. Lee Jr.

Lodge dues currently stand at twenty dollars per year. Fees for the degrees are thirty dollars each. These figures are among the lowest in the state. In May of this year, our newly revised By-laws were approved by the Grand Lodge.

Past, Present and Future

When Bradford Lodge was formed in 1841 there were twenty four states in the union. Kentucky admitted in 1792, being the fifteenth. In the whole nation there were just over six hundred lodges, with about twenty two thousand and members. Freemasonry came to America in the early 1700's.

The first Lodge to receive a charter was st. Johns No. 1 of Boston, Massachusetts, in 1733. It was not until the first English Grand Lodge was formed In 1717, that Lodge Charters were required.

Prior to that time Lodges convened and conducted Masonic work according to "ancient usage" or "immemorial custom." It is believed that Masonic Lodges may have met in Boston as early as 1720 according ,to "ancient usage," but there are no published records of such Lodges prior to 1730. In any event, that there was Masonic work in the colonies was shown by an article in Benjamin Franklin's Pennsylvania Gazette of December 1730, which refers to the existence of several Lodges of Freemasons that had been erected in the Province of Pennsylvania.

In 1788, five Lodges were organized in Kentucky, Under Dispensation of the Grand Lodge of Virginia. In 1800, the five Lodges; Lexington Lodge No.1, Paris Lodge No.2, Georgetown Lodge No.3, Hiram Lodge No. 4 at Frankfort, and Solomon's Lodge No.5 at Shelbyville, surrendered their charters to Virginia, and organized the Grand Lodge of Kentucky.

At the end of 1980, there were four hundred sixty five active Masonic Lodges in Kentucky. Only fifty one of those Lodges have been in existence longer than Bradford Lodge. Only thirty three of the states Lodges have more members than Bradford's four hundred fifty five.

As could be expected, most of the Lodge's members reside in Independence, or in neighboring communities. But membership isn't confined to local areas, or even to the state. We have nearly fifty loyal dues paying members living in other states, including; Louisiana, Ohio, California, Florida, Tennessee, Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Texas, New York, Georgia, Arkansas, Arizona, Virginia, Alabama, and South Carolina.

Truly, Bradford Lodge has come a long way it its one hundred forty years. But there is still a long way to go. There have, naturally, been many changes over the years, but one thing hasn't changed, the dedication to the Lodge and Masonry, the desire to be successful, and the spirit of Freemasonry that was so preva1ant from the very beginning, still exists today.

Although Masonic membership is at an all time high, and the Institution is enjoying perhaps its greatest success, especially in public regard and opinion, regular Lodge attendance is less than desirable throughout the state.

We, in this country, have a very important role in the future of Freemasonry, as it is estimated that eighty percent of the world’s Masonic population resides in the United States.

Due to the integrity, and the dedication of those who are able to understand the Masonic system, and reduce its implications into personal experience, the ceremonial work is repeated, night after night, with a great degree of intelligence and verbal perfection. We hope that the work doesn’t end there, for the ability to perform this work creditably is not the be-all or end-all of Masonry.

Anyone can understand the simpler meanings of our symbols, especially with the help of explanatory lectures, but he may still miss the meanings of the scheme as a vital whole.

The meaning. of Masonry is a subject usually left uninterrupted, and accordingly remains unrealized by its members, except for the few who make it their private study.

The understanding of Masonry calls for informal guidance, and a desire for knowledge. Unfortunately, many Brethren become rather too quickly disinterested, and even disappointed in Masonry, because they are unable to realize deeper meanings than are explained in the several degree lectures. 

Masonry is much, much deeper than rituals, ceremonies, or the safeguarding of secrets. No one can communicate the deeper things in Masonry to another. Every man must discover them for himself. There are many people who believe Masonry is in danger of becoming primarily a social and charitable organization. Masonic Charity raises large sums of money each year for the endowment of Masonic schools, orphanages, hospitals, and old age homes. As Masons, we believe the fraternity is a lively mutual aid society, and the "square dealing" required among us isn't necessarily denied to outsiders.

Masonry has existed for nearly four thousand years, and we have no reason to believe that the future will bring anything less than continued development and growth.

These words written by Brother Walter L. Wilmshurst (1867-1939) are timeless, and apply as much today as when written in 1927;

"The Masonic Craft has grown and ramified to dimen­sions undreamed of by its original founders, and at its present rate of increase, its potentialities and influence in the future are quite incalculable. The future development and the value of the Order as a moral  force in society depend, therefore, upon the view its members take of their system. If they do not spiritualize it, they will but increasingly materialize it. If they fail to interpret its veiled purport, to enter into the understanding of its underlying philosophy, and to translate its symbolism into what is signified thereby, they will be mistaking shadow for substance, a husk for the kernel, and secularizing what was designed as a means of spiritual instruction and grace. It is from lack of instruction rather than desire to learn the meaning of Masonry that the Craft suffers today. But, as one finds, that desire exists."

Bradford Lodge No. 123 has a very prestigious and enduring history. The Brethren who founded the Lodge, and all Brethren who have "gone on to that undiscovered country" have left us, the present members, with a heritage we can take great pride in, and a past that must never be forgotten. The have instilled in us the desire to continue and sustain this pride for the many future generations of Bradford Lodge Masons that follow.

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