HISTORY

The idea of forming the Worshipful Masters’ Association was suggested in a conversation between Rt. Wor. Andrew G. Smith, District Deputy Grand Master of the First Masonic District, and Wor. Bro. J. M. Rodocanachi, Master of the Lodge of Eleusis.

At the time the former made his official visit to the Lodge of the latter, most of the Presiding Masters in the District were present. Worshipful Brother Rodocanachi took occasion to express his gratification at this action, which led to a prolonged conversation upon the subject of more cordial relations between the Lodges. From this conversation the Association arose, and it is safe to say no member has ever regretted its formation, it having done much to show “how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.”

In response to an invitation from Rt. Wor. Smith, 6 brethren assembled at the Boston Masonic Temple on the evening of October 6, 1871, for the purpose of considering the subject of forming an Association for mutual Masonic improvement and the cultivation of the social and moral virtues, in conformity with the teachings of our venerable institution.

Rt. Wor. Bro. Smith was elected President, Wor. Charles H. Bolles, Treasurer, and Wor. Bro. Rodocanachi, Secretary; the latter held the position of Secretary for many years, to the great satisfaction of his brethren. It is also worthy to note that Wor. Bro. Bolles served continuously in his office through 1918.

On motion, it was voted that the D.D.G.M. call personally upon the Presiding Masters of all the Lodges comprising the First Masonic District, and invite them to participate in the deliberations of the next meeting. The Association incorporated officially on October 4, 1912 and then had its first incorporated meeting on November 1, 1912.