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CHAPTER XXXI.

MARIETTA— SOCIETIES.

Masonry—American Union Lodge No. 1—The Oldest Institution in the State, and Antedating the American Government—Organization of the Lodge in Massachusetts in 1776—With the Revolutionary Army Through the War—Washington a Visitor—Seal of the Lodge —Rufus Putnam a Member—Reorganization of American Union Lodge, in Campus Martins, at Marietta, June ad, 1790, by Captain Jonathan Heart, of Fort Harmar—Recognized by the Grand Lodges of Massachusetts and Pennsylvania—Blennerhassett a Member—Lewis Cass—Rechartered by the Grand Lodge of Ohio in 1816—List of Masters—Centennial Celebration—American Union Chapter R. A. M. No. 1 Organized in 1792—Succession of High Priests—Harmar Lodge No. 390—Odd Fellowship—Marietta Lodge No. 67—Instituted by John Brough in 1846--Guttenburg Lodge (German)—Chartered in 1857—Harmar Lodge No. 115—Knights of Pythias—Miscellaneous Societies.

MASONRY.

AMERICAN UNION LODGE NO. I, F. AND A. M.

This is the oldest institution in Marietta, and the oldest Masonic lodge in Ohio, or the five States originally the Northwest Territory. Its organization was effected prior to that of the American Government, and in the beginning of the Revolutionary struggle. In the winter of 1775-76 Boston was in the possession of the British, and the Patriot army was encamped before it. Among the soldiers of the Connecticut line there were a few Free Masons, who, anxious to enjoy the amenities of such intercourse as that to which they had been accustomed, resolved to organize a lodge in connection with the

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army, following a precedent which had long before been established in the British army. In the colony of Connecticut, from whence these officers and soldiers hailed, there was no organization which had authority to issue a warrant for a new lodge, and Boston being invested by the British the meetings of the Provincial grand lodge had been suspended. Of this organization John Rowe was grand master, and Richard Gridley deputy. The latter, who had power to act in the matter, was accessible, and to him application was made for authority to assemble and work as a regular lodge in connection with the Connecticut line of the army, then at Roxbury. In response was issued the following peculiar document, the warrant under which American Union Lodge was organized:

John Rowe, Grand Master; to Joel Clarke, esq., greeting:

By virtue of authority invested in us, I hereby, reposing special trust and confidence in your knowledge and skill of the ancient craft, do appoit and constitute you, the said Joel Clarke, esq., master of American Union Lodge, now erected in Roxbury, or wherever your body shall remove on the continent of America, provided it is where no grand master is appointed.

You are to promote in your lodge the utmost harmony and brotherly love and to keep up to the constitutions for the 1eputation of the craft. In your makings you are to be very cautious of the moral character of such persons, and also of visitors and such as desire to become members of your rodge (such as were not made under it). You are to transmit to the grand lodge a fair account of the choice of your otficers, as well present as future. Any matters coming before your lodge that cannot be adjusted, you are to appeal to, and lay before the grand lodge for a decision. You are, as often as the grand lodge meets, to attend with your two wardens. Of the time and place the grand lodge meets you will have previous notice.

In order to support the grand lodge, your lodge is to pay into the hands of the grand secretary, each quarterly night, the sum of twelve shillings lawful money; all of which you will pay due regard to. This commission to remain in full force and virtue until recalled by me or my successor in office.

Given under my hand and the hands of the grand wardens (the seal of the grand lodge first affixed) this, the fifteenth day of February, Anno Mundi 5776, of salvation, 776.

RICHARD GRIDLEY, D. M.

WILLIAM BURBECK, S. . W.

 J. G. W.

The lodge which came into being in accordance with this communication was the first ever organized in America under American authority. Its first meeting was held and the lodge constituted at Waterman's tavern, Roxbury, Massachusetts, February 10, 1776. The original members as named on the minutes of the meeting were Colonel Joel Clark, Colonel John Park, Thomas Chase, esq., Ensign Jonathan Heart, Captain Joseph Hoiet, Colonel Samuel Holden Parsons, Captain Ezekiel Scott, - Whittlesey, and Cotton, Fellow Crafts; and Colonel Samuel Wyllys Entered Apprentice. This military lodge throughout the whole period of the Revolution was with the army and held its meetings at such times as were thought proper and in whatever places the army chanced to be encamped. Shortly after the organization was effected a seal was made for the lodge. As the name American Union Lodge was supposed to have been suggested by Benjamin Franklin, so was the symbolism of the seal. Prominent in the device and surrounding the square and compasses appeared a chain of thirteen links, joined at the top by clasped hands. Above were the sun, moon and stars and below three burning tapers. This seal was engraved by the celebrated patriot Paul Revere.

On August 13, 1776, the lodge held a meeting at New York. On the twenty-seventh of August a sanguinary battle took place on Long Island, in which the American army suffered serious loss. Among others who were taken prisoners were Right Worshipful Joel Clark, and upon the thirteenth of September two members, James Chapman and Micajah Gleason, were killed, and William Cleveland and John P. Wyllys taken prisoners. Colonel Clark died soon after in captivity, and, as many of the members were called away to other fields of action, the lodge was adjourned.

It was not again convened until February 5, 1779, when that portion of the army with which it was connected being in Connecticut, the secretary, Jonathan Heart, having issued a call, a meeting was held "at widow Sanford's, near Reading old meeting house." Jonathan Heart presided at this meeting. An election of officers took place, and Samuel Holden Parsons (afterwards prominent in the Ohio company, and one of the judges of the Northwest Territory) was elected master; Jonathan Heart, senior warden; and Elisha Marshall, junior warden. The master elect was not present, and seems not to have been at subsequent meetings for some time, as Jonathan Heart served in the capacity of master. Two days later the lodge met again at Mrs. Sanford's, when several additions were made to the membership. Other meetings were held upon the twenty-fourth, and upon the tenth, seventeenth, and twenty-fifth of March. On the twenty-fifth the members of the lodge dined together. On the seventh of May the lodge "closed without date," as the army was compelled to move.

On the twenty-fourth of June the lodge was at Nelson's Point, on the Hudson, Washington having established his headquarters at New Windsor. The twenty-fourth, being St. John's day, was duly celebrated. Being joined by a number of their Masonic brothers, the members of American Union lodge proceeded to the Robinson house, two miles down the river, where they were met by

General Washington and his family, who dined with them. Here addresses were delivered by the Rev. Dr. Hitchcock and Major William Hull (the General Hull of War of 1812 fame).

About this time another military lodge was organized, which consisted of soldiers of the Massachusetts line. It was named Washington lodge. Colonel Benjamin Tupper (afterwards a member of American Union lodge, one of the originators of the Ohio company and Marietta pioneer) was chosen senior warden. During the months of July, August and September, many prominent gentlemen of the army were initiated as members of American Union lodge, among whom were Colonel Rufus Putnam, Colonel Gamaliel Bradford, Dr. Elisha Skinner, Dr. Samuel Finley, Colonel John Brooks, afterwards governor of Massachusetts, Lieutenant James Baxter, Lieutenant Peleg Heath, Dr. Jonathan Graham, Captain Henry Ten Eyck, Asa Worthington, Captain Stephen Beats and Moses Cleaveland, after whom the city of Cleveland was named. The lodge passed a pleasant and profitable

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summer on the Hudson, but in December it was in session at Morristown, New Jersey, Captain Heart presiding. General Washington was again a visitor. In the midsummer of 178o the lodge was again upon the Hudson. The movements of the army had prevented an election of officers at the proper time, and therefore one was held July 30th, with the result of choosing Captain Heart master. From this time onward, for a period of nearly two years, active military service prevented the possibility of holding lodge meetings, but in March, 1782, the lodge was again on the Hudson, and convened at the "Connecticut huts." Captain Heart was again elected master. The lodge held numerous meetings during the summer, and, in conjunction with Washington lodge, celebrated St. John's day at West Point. In October a meeting was held at Verplanck Point, and in March, 1783, we find it again at West Point. The great struggle for independence was now over, and the troops were awaiting discharge. The lodge, which for seven years had lived and moved with the American army, held its last meeting while connected with that army on April 23, 1783. It was upon that day adjourned to such a time as the master should choose to call it together.

The future was uncertain. It was destined, however, that American Union lodge should again be brought into active existence, and in a land which at the time of its adjournment had no inhabitants. Captain Heart who had been its master on the banks of the Hudson, was after a period of seven years to be its master upon the banks of the. Ohio and the Muskingum.

The lodge was reorganized at Marietta June 28, 1790, —a little over two years from the time the first settlement was made. Judge James M. Varnum who died upon the tenth of January, 1789, had been buried with Masonic honors. This was the first Masonic work done in the State of Ohio. Very likely this solemn ceremony had suggested to the Masons in the little settlement the propriety of making more fast the ties of brotherhood which existed between them. They remembered that Captain Jonathan Heart, their old master, who was now the commandant of Fort Harmar just across the Muskingum, still had in his possession the warrant of their old army lodge, and they determined to revive it if possible. Upon the twenty-fifth of June, 1790, at Numsell & Buell's in Marietta, was gathered a company, consisting of the following members of the Masonic fraternity: Rufus Putnam, Benjamin Tupper, Griffin Greene, Robert Oliver, Ezra Lunt, William Stacey, William Burnham, Auselm Tupper, Thomas Stanley and Ebenezer Sproat. They framed a petition which set forth that "having considered the disadvantages that the brethren of the ancient and honorable society of Free and Accepted Masons, have labored under in this western hemisphere, relative to their further knowledge from the east, that W. Brother Jonathan Heart at Fort Harmar, would take them under his immediate patronage, and establish them on a permanent basis; and give them, and the other brethren of the fraternity in this quarter, an apportunity to meet him as soon as possibly consistent"

They received the following reply from Captain Heart:

Previous to the late Revolution alt authority exercised in America with respect to masonry was derived from the grand lodge in Great Britain, delegated to deputies in and over certain districts, by virtue of which all lodges were then held. The Federal territories not coming within the district of any grand lodge, holding under authority of the grand lodge of Great Britain and the United States, not as yet having formed a Federal head in masonry, it may be in doubt whether at this time there is any power in America having jurisdiction over the Federal territories. From whence it follows the power is still in the grand lodge of Great Britain, unless there can be found some power which has been delegated other ways than through the present grand lodges and extending its jurisdiction to this country. Whether the warrant under which you wish to be convened affords protection is the next subject of enquiry. This warrant was granted in the year 1776, previous to the Declaration of Independence, by Richard Gridley, esq., deputy grand master, whose authority extended to all parts of North America where no special grand masters were appointed, as may appear from the book of constitution, and as expressed in the same instrument. It will therefore follow that, there being no special grand master for this territory, a more ample authority for holding a lodge in this country could not be obtained, provided there was a competent number of the former members present. But there are only two, viz.: Brother Putnam and myself—who were actual enrolled members. To remove this objection, it is observable there are two others who are members and resident in this couty, but at present at too great a distance to attend. There are also two of the petitioners who were constant visitors of the lodge during the war, one of them a past master (Brother Bingham Tupper) who by custom is a member of all lodges. There are also others of the petitioners who have frequently visited the lodge at different times. Wherefore, under every consideration with respect to your situation —the difficulty of obtaining authority—a doubt whether more ample authority can, at this time, be obtained, the right which is ever retained by the individuals of incorporating themselves where there is no existing power already lodged with particulars for that purpose.

Wherefore, being the preset master of the lodge held under the authority of said warrant, as may appear by having recourse to the records deposited in Frederick's lodge, held at Farmington, State of Connecticut, and being the eldest Ancient Mason within said territory, I have thought proper with the advice of brother Putnam, member, and brother Benjamin Tupper, past master, to grant the request contained in your petition, and will meet you in Campus Martins, on Monday the twenty-eighth instant, at six o'clock P. M., for the purpose of forming you into a lodge.

I am, with every sentiment of respect, brethren,

Your most obedient and humble servant,

JONATHAN HEART,

M. A. U. lodge.

Under date of June 28, 1790, the minutes state that the brethren being convened by order of the worshipful Jonathan Heart, proceeded to open the lodge in due form. There were present Worshipful Brother Heart, master; Worshipful Brother Benjamin Tupper, past master Hampshire lodge, acting as senior warden; Brother Rufus Putnam, junior warden; and Brothers Thomas Stanley, William Burnham, Griffin Greene, William Mills, Robert Oliver, and William Stacey. The warrant of February 15, 1776, was read, and on motion of Rufus Putnam the seven brothers were proposed as members of the lodge, and being balloted for were admitted as members. Benjamin Tupper was chosen senior warden, and Rufus Putnam, junior-warden. On the fifteenth of July another meeting was held, at which Anselem Tupper, who was elected secretary, delivered a very happy little speech. At the meeting of August 2d, the lodge was visited by Major John Doughty (who built Fort Harmar), then just returned from Cincinnati, where he had erected Fort Washington. On September 6th, the first petitioner prayed for admission to the lodge; this was Francis Choate, of Leicester, Massachusetts. On October 4th, Rev. Daniel Story, the minister and teacher employed for the settle-

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meats by the Ohio company, was admitted; also Josiah Munroe. In November the lodge secured a number of French visitors—the Marquis de Marnasia and others.— December 6th Jonathan Heart was reelected master. Nathaniel Cushing was a visitor. Colonel R. J. Meigs, sr., Colonel R. J. Meigs, jr., and Charles Greene were elected members. The master's degree was conferred upon the Rev. Daniel Story, December 8th. St. John's day was celebrated December 27th. A procession was formed and marched to the court house. Prayer was offered by Rev. Daniel Story, and an address made by Anselem Tupper. Regular meetings were held in 1791 (the worst year of the Indian war) as well as in 179o. Jonathan Heart was again elected master, and he held that position until compelled to go with the army into the Indian country. His resignation was tendered August 22d, and Rufus Putnam was chosen in his place, but requested to be excused. Robert Oliver was elected and served. Heart was killed at St. Clair's defeat, in the fall of the same year—November 4th.

The lodge was recognized early in 1791 by the Grand lodge of Massachusetts, and in 1792 by that of Pennsylvania. The former said to American Union lodge "your warrant is, beyond doubt, a perfect and good one, and must have its force and operation where you are untrl a a grand lodge is founded and established in your territory, when it will become your duty to surrender it and obtain in its place a warrant from the grand lodge that may have the government of masonry in your State," From Pennsylvania came a communication, of which the following is a portion: '

1t is with equal surprise and pleasure the Grand lodge of Pennsylvania received the intelligence of the formation of a lodge in the midst of the immense wilderness of the west where but lately wild beasts and savage men were the only inhabitants, and where ignorance and ferocity contributed to deepen the gloom which has covered that part of the earth from creation. This day of light which has thus broke in upon the gloom and darkness of ages they consider as a happy presage that the time is fast approaching when the knowledge of masonry will completely encircle the globe and the most distant regions of the western hemisphere rival those of the eastern in masonic splendor.

The early years of the American Union lodge in Marietta were pleasant and prosperous ones, and as full of promise as the best friends of the organization could wish. Large accessions of membership w ere received, and the lodge numbered among its supporters the best men in the settlement and State.

In 1797—upon August 12th, the famous Harman Blennerhassett, being in the west for the purpose of preparing his island home for the arrival of his family, was a visitor to the lodge. He soon became identified with it, and in December was elected secretary.

In April 1800, news of the action of the Grand lodge of Pennsylvania upon the death of Washington was received, and American Union lodge made the following reply:

With you, we sincerely feel the loss we sustained in the death of Washington, our betoved brother. And though he never graced our meetings or processions with his presence, yet the happy effect of his Masonic and civil virtues, of his heroism, wisdom, patriotism and policy have reached the west. They have extended to every extremity of the United States, and like the sun at high meridian, have cheered, enlightened and animated, not only America, but the whole civilized world,

On the first intelligence of his demise, the lodge unanimously agreed to wear mourning for six months, as a great, respectful and affectionate tribute to his memory ; and we cannot but receive sublime satisfaction in the intelligence, that our brethren in the east unite with us in respect, esteem and veneration for so distinguished and so amiable a character. He was indeed an illustrious brother, citizen and chief—in peace and war, in council and action, pre-eminent.

Among other eminent men who became members of American Union lodge during its early years was Lewis Cass. He was initiated in 1803, and was afterward master of the Zanesville lodge and grand master of the Masons in Ohio.

In January, 1808, a convention was held at Chillicothe, consisting of delegates from lodges then at work in the State, to form a Grand lodge. At this convention American Union Lodge No. 1, was represented by Robert Oliver, Ichabod Nye, and William Skinner. A Grand lodge was organized, and the venerable Rufus Putnam, though not present, was elected the first grand master of Masons in Ohio. He was not, however, installed, and the deputy, Thomas Henderson, of Cincinnati, performed the duties of the office during the year. At the session of the Grand lodge a year after, in January, 1809, a fraternal letter was received from General Putnam, declining to accept the office, because of his age and inability to perform its duties. His letter is a very touching one. He says: "My sun is far past the meridian; it is almost set; a few sands only remain in my glass; I am unable to undergo the necessary labors of that high and important office; unable to make you a visit at this time, without a sacrifice and hazard of health which prudence forbids."

For some cause not clearly known, American Union lodge, though continuing in activity, declined for some years to receive a charter from the Grand lodge of Ohio, and was not again represented in that body until the session at Chillicothe, in January, 1816. The new charter recognized the lodge by its present name—American Union Lodge No. 1—and was accepted by its members. It still lives, the oldest of over five hundred lodges in the State of Ohio.

The following list of the masters of American Union lodge will convey some idea of the characters who constituted this old organization: Joel Clark, 1776; Samuel H. Parsons, 1779; Jonathan Heart, 1779-91; Robert Oliver, 1791-3; Rufus Putnam, 1794; Daniel Story, 1794-6; Charles Greene, 1797; Rufus Putnam, 1798; Josiah Monroe, 1799; Griffin Greene, 1799; Rufus Putnam, 1800; Return Jonathan Meigs, 1801; Rufus Putnam, 1801; Daniel Story, 1802-3; Rufus Putnam, 1804-5; Ichabod Nye, 1806-8; Morris B. Belknap, 1809; Ichabod Nye, 1810-12; Levi Barber, 1813-5; Augustus Stone, 1816; Samuel Hoiet, 1817; Anaxamander Warner, 18181819; Levi Barber, 182o; John Cotton, 1821; W. A. Whittlesey, 1825.6; James Dunn, 1827-8; James M. Booth, 2829-3o; no meetings from 1830-43; James Dunn, 2843-5; Hugh Trevor, 1846-7; T. J. Westgate, 2848; Hugh Trevor, 1849; James Dunn, 1850; Hugh Trevor, 1851; M. J. Morse, 1852; Benjamin Soule, 1853; J. F. Cox, 1854; Benjamin Soule, 1855; T. J. Westgate, 1856; Pardon Cook, 1857; Thomas F. Jones, 1858-60; Charles

SAMPSON COLE.

The subject of this sketch is probably the oldest man now living in the county. He was born at Providence, Rhode Island, November 9, 1784. He was the oldest child of Nathan and Mary Jett Cole and a grandson of John Cole, one of the first settlers of Warren, as will be seen by reference to the chapter on that township.

Nathan Cole removed, with his family, in 1787, to Pittstown, Rensselaer county, New York. He afterwards removed to the Hoosac valley and remained there till 1803, when he came to this county and temporarily took shelter in a log house, nearly opposite the mouth of the Kanawha. He purchased land on the Ohio river bank, within the present limits of Dunham township, and, while a cabin was being built, Samson, then a boy of nineteen, and his younger brother, lodged in the covered wagons. The house was ready for occupancy in a week and the family moved into it.

Five years of toil in the forest and on the new farm greatly impaired the strong and vigorous constitution o young Cole. He had labored from early morn till late at night, cutting trees and rolling logs, and was now compelled to seek less straining employment. His father donated him a tract of land in Marietta township, or more properly gave it to him in remuneration for his services, for when the deed was being drawn up and the question was asked what consideration should be named, his father announced "twelve hundred dollars." His mother, who was present, feelingly added: "Yes, and every cent of it has been paid."

About 1809, Sampson Cole and his brother, Levi, built a boat and went into the salt business on the Kanawha. Sampson took charge of the transportation and Levi superintended the furnaces. In 1811 he married Mary Duncan, who was born in Fluvanna county, Virginia, March 8, 1792. He quit the river and moved on his farm. His wife died April 7, 1814, leaving one child, Ann Maria, who was born January 11, 1813. She died October 30, 1832.

Mr. Cole married for his second wife, November 30, 1815, Amy Chase, who was born in Otsego county, New York, November 23, 1792. He had served in various township offices, and was, at the time of his second marriage, deputy sheriff. He began housekeeping in the old court house. In 1816 his appointment was renewed by the sheriff, Captain Timothy Buell. In 180 he built the house on Ohio street, which he occupied as a tavern for a number of years. This building is now occupied by his son-in-law, J. H. Stanley, as a residence. In 1829 he exchanged the farm on which he first settled in Marietta township, for two hundred acres about two miles from town, now known as the Cole farm. He removed to this place in 1849, and continued farming until 1862, when his son, William H. Cole, joined him, and took away the responsibilities which, in his old age, were becoming a burden. In 1871, Mr. Cole and his good wife, who had in every avocation been his co-worker, retired from the farm and sought rest among their old friends in town. In their house on Fourth street they resided in perfect contentment until July 12, 1878, when the association of more than sixty-two years of married life was broken by the death of Mrs. Cole.

Five children were the fruit of this second marriage: George, born July 25, 1817, died September 30, 1818; James Wallace, born July 23, 1819, died June 20, 1833; Charles, born July 3, 1822, died August 3, 1822; Sarah Elizabeth, wife of J. W. Stanley, born December 23, 1824; and William H., born April 12, 1835.

Mr. Cole, since the death of his wife, has been making his home with the two surviving children, Mrs. Stanley and William H. Cole. He is naturally of a happy temperament, and has been throughout his whole life, of nearly a century, highly respected by his neighbors and acquaintances. In his earlier life he spoke little of the past, but, in his ripe old age, he narrates in an interesting way, the experiences of his youth.

Up to about three years ago, he was a member of the Unitarian church, but has since experienced a change of faith and united with the Congregationalists.

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E. Sherman, 1861-2; George T. Hovey, 1862; E. Locker, 1863; George T. Hovey, 1864-7; L. C. Davison, 1869; E. Winchester, 1870; George T. Hovey, 1871-6; James McClure, 1877-8; George T. Hovey, 1879-81.

It will be seen that George T. Hovey, the present master of American Union lodge, has held the position more years than any of his predecessors. He has opened the lodge four hundred and eight times; conferred apprentice degree one hundred and thirty-one times; fellowcraft's degree, one hundred and fifteen times; master mason's degree one hundred and ten times. In all he has conferred three hundred and fifty-six degrees on one hundred and forty-eight persons. He has presided during his terms of offrce at eighteen masonic trials and twenty-five funerals.

Since the first meeting of American Union lodge west of the mountains, at Campus Martius June 28, 1790, the lodge has had many places for assembling. Meetings were continued at the original hall until August 4, 1800, (although the greater part of the structure of Campus Martius was torn down soon after the close of the war) and the lodge then occupied rooms in Joel Bower's two story frame building, on the north side of Greene street between Front and Second streets. This building was consumed by fire Match 24, 1801, and the lodge lost all of its property in the rooms, including the original charter from the Provincial Grand lodge of Massachusetts. The next meeting was held at Major Lincoln's inn, on the east corner of Post and Ohio streets, April 6, 1801. Meetings were continued in this location until December 5, 1803. At a meeting of this date it was resolved that the lodge accept the kind offer of Brother Rufus Putnam, tendering his office on the south side of Washington street (the building is still standing) for the accommodation of the lodge during the winter, free of charge. The lodge continued its meetings here until February 5, 1810, at which time it was decided in the future to hold its meetings in the third story of Ichabod Nye's brick store building, on the south side of Putnam street, near the court house, Mr. Nye agreeing to furnish the room and wood for fuel for twenty-five dollars a year. The lodge continued to assemble here until December 27, 1815. A meeting was held at the store room of Levi Barber, in Harmar, January 25, 1816, one at the court house February 13th, and one at Nye's store March 12th, of the same year. The lodge then rented a hall of Levi Barber, of Point Harmar, and occupied it from April 9, 1816, to December 27, 1822. This hall was in a stone building on the corner of Muskingum and Market streets. On leaving this locality rooms were rented of Henry P. Wilcox, over the post office on the southeast corner of Front and Putnam streets, at fifty dollars per year. Meetings were held here from February 18, 1823, to December 22, 1825. The next move of the lodge was into its own rooms in a building erected in partnership with the building committee of school district No. 1, near the east side of Front street and in the rear of Mr. William H. Buell's present drug store. In 1851 the rooms over N. Holden's store building, on the south side of Greene street were rented, and these were occu pied until 1854, when the lodge leased the third story of John M. Woodbridge's building, on the east side of Front street, where meetings were held until July 22, 1873, when the lodge again moved into a hall of its own -the one at present in use on the north corner of Front and Butler streets.

The centennial celebration of American Union lodge at Marietta, upon St. John's Day (June 24th), 1876, was an interesting and grand occasion. Not less than three thousand strangers attended, coming into town from all parts of Ohio and adjoining States by railroad, by the Ohio and Muskingum boats, and from the surrounding country by carriages. Seats were arranged upon the college campus for three thousand persons, and a dinning hall in the park accommodated one thousand persons at a time. An immense procession with numerous bands of music paraded the streets, the buildings along which were beautifully decorated with flags and banners the emblems of the Nation, and of Masonry-and with evergreens and flowers. At the college grounds a beautiful oration was delivered by P. G. M., Richard Vaux, of Philadelphia, and a historical address by C. Moore, of Cincinnati, editor of the Masonic Review. A centennial ode by Robert Morris was read, and the exercises closed with some brief, well-chosen remarks by M. D. Follett, esq. In the evening, at the city hall, a benefit entertainment was given for American Union lodge.

The lodge has now about one hundred and twenty members, and is in a prospering condition.

In closing this brief history of the oldest Masonic lodge in Ohio, we may appropriately allude to the late Colonel Augustus Stone who was its oldest member. He was born July 23, 1780; made a Mason in American Union lodge November 2, 1807, and served as secretary in 1808-9-10-11, and as master in 1816. He died at his home in Harmar, on the fourteenth of June, 1879, and was believed to have been at that time the oldest affiliated Mason, the oldest secretary, and the oldest Past Master in the United States.

AMERICAN UNION, CHAPTER R. A. M., NO. I.

This chapter was organized in Marietta, June 6,1792, under authority of American Union Lodge No I, with Robert Oliver, Rufus Putnam, and Griffin Greene, as officers, and Daniel Story, Return Jonathan Meigs, and Joseph Woods, as additional members. The chapter was continued in existence until March 22, 1801, when the lodge hall, charter, and papers were burned, but was reorganized in January, 1804, on having the charter renewed by the grand lodge of Massachusetts. It was recognized by the grand chapter of Ohio upon its organization, and is probably the oldest chapter in the State. In the convention to organize the grand chapter, at Worthington, Ohio, October 21, 1816, American Union chapter was represented by companions Samuel Hoiet, Levi Barber, and Joseph Woods, the former of whom was chosen first grand high priest. The present charter of the chapter bears date of October 24, 1816, and is signed by Lincoln Goodall, grand secretary, pro tem. The charter members were Joseph T. Willard, H. P.; David

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Trowbridge, K.; William Skinner, S.; Levi Barber, Augustus Stone, Sardine Stone, Anaxmander Warner, Oliver Dodge, Peter Howe, and Samuel Hoiet. The following were the high priests under the lodge charter: 2792, Robert Oliver; 1793 to 1796, Daniel Story; 1797 to 1799, Rufus Putnam; 1800 to 1803, Daniel Story; 1804 to 1808, Rufus Putnam; 1809 to 2814, Ichabod Nye.

The following is a list of the high priests who have presided over the chapter under its present charter, the are last nine of whom with the exception of James Dunn, living: 1816, Joseph T. Millard; 1817, Levi Barber; 1818, David Trowbridge; 1819, Anaxamander Warner; 1820, Levi Barber; 1821 to 1824, Dr. John Cotton; 1825, W. A. Whittlesey; 1826 to 1827, Dr. John Cotton; 1828 to 1845, (interregnum); 1846 to 1853, James Dunn; 1854, Dr. Hugh Trevor; 1855 to 1856, John Bigelow; 1857 to 1858, James Dunn; 1859 to 1861, W. B. Mason; 1862 to 1864, (no election); 1865 to 1867, T. F. Jones; 1868 to 2869, James B. Hovey; 1870 to 1874, C. P. Bartlett; 1875 to 1879, W. B. Mason; 1880, J. W. Holden; 1881, Z. D. Walter.

HARMAR LODGE NO. 390, F. AND A. M.

The gentlemen constituting this lodge held their first meeting on the eighth of June, 1867, and organized by electing A. S. Curtiss chairman, and William H. Smith secretary. They worked under a dispensation until October 16, 1867, when a charter was obtained from the Grand lodge of Ohio. The following were the charter members: J. M. Blair, A. S. Curtis, W. H. Bisbee, Elijah Locker, Augustus Stone, William H, Smith, 0. J. Chambers, J. J. Vanderwarker, Thomas J. Pattin, William H. Boothby, S. H. Tidd, Emil Michelis, T. C. Fitch. George T. Hovey, of American Union Lodge, instituted this lodge under the charter and the following officers were elected: Elijah Locker, W. M.; A. S. Curtiss, S. W.; S. H. Tidd, J. W.; Thomas J. Pattin, treasurer; William H. Smith, secretary; Joel M. Blair, S. D.; William H. Boothby, J. D.; E. Michelis, tyler. The meetings of this lodge are now held in the hall on the north side of Church street, between Second and Third streets, where the lodge was instituted. The lodge has about sixty-five members.

INDEPENDENT ORDER OF ODD FELLOWS, MARIETTA

LODGE NO. 67.

Marietta lodge No. 67, Independent Order of Odd Fellows was organized under a charter issued by the grand lodge of Ohio. The charter was granted Worley Adams, John P. Beach, D. H. Mortley, Oliver Porter and A. G. Westgate. All of the charter members except J. P. Beach were members of Valley Lodge No. 36, McConnelsville, Ohio. These members drew cards from Valley lodge for the purpose of applying. to the grand lodge for a charter for Marietta lodge. And after Marietta lodge was instituted they again returned to membership in Valley lodge, McConnelsville.

John Brough, who was afterwards governor of Ohio, was appointed by the grand master of Ohio, special deputy to institute Marietta lodge. Governor Brough was a native of Marietta, and always took a great interest in every public measure that was for the advancement of the town. On the twenty-ninth day of August, 1846, Governor Brough came to Marietta, and on that day instituted Marietta Lodge No. 67. The exercises took place in the Masonic hall, in a brick school-house on the rear of the lot on Front street, now occupied by Horatio Booth's and W. H. Buell's brick store buildings. The first officers elected were John P. Beach, noble grand; M. N. Marsh, vice grand; W. F. Curtis, secretary; and Owen Franks, treasurer. Several petitions for membership were presented, and ten members were elected and initiated into the solemn rites of the order.

The lodge progressed very rapidly, as the order has all over the country. The membership has included since its organization over three hundred men by initiation and card.

The financial affairs of the lodge have kept up with the increase of membership, and a large amount has been expended in benefits to sick members. The trustees for the widow and orphan's fund have expended the means of the lodge in the relief of many widows and orphans. These expenditures, together with the amount paid for the burial of deceased brothers, and for charitable purposes, would foot up a very large sum. The lodge is now on a sound financial basis. The amount of bonds, notes and real estate at present held by the lodge is equal in value to seven or eight thousand dollars.

The officers elected January, 1881, are-Naham Bergen, noble grand ; J. A. Whitehead, vice grand; F. S. Coleman, secretary; and George Benedict, treasurer.

The meeting night is Monday, and the place in the third story of the building on Green street owned by the heirs of the late Samuel Shipman.

GUTTENBERG LODGE, NO. 319.

Guttenberg lodge was instituted in the city of Marietta, Ohio, by Grand Master William Chidsey, on the twelfth day of June, 1857, and is consequently twenty-four years old. It always has worked, and does so at the present writing, exclusively in the German language. Jacob Grossdoss, Louis Leopold, Jacob Meagel, Joseph Wildt, John Theis, Charles F. Biszantz, and Henry Schmidt were the seven charter members of the same, all of whom are now deceased, except the last named, so that Henry Schmidt is the only surviving charter member at this time. The highest membership of the lodge since its existence was one hundred and twenty-two, and at the present time it has ninety-two members. Its membership has been very materially reduced by deaths and withdrawals of brethren for the purpose of instituting new lodges at Lowell and New Matamoras, in this county.

The lodge has always been regarded by the Grand lodge of Ohio as one of the best working lodges in the State, Since its existence it has paid many thousand dollars for relief to the sick, for funeral benefits for members and their wives, and support of widows and orphans, especially in the last past five years, when it had much sickness and many deaths, and it is hoped it may be able to continue to assist its worthy and distressed brethren, their widows and orphans, for many years to come.

HISTORY OF WASHINGTON COUNTY, OHIO - 423

Since its existence it has had forty-four past grands, a majority of whom are still living and members of the lodge.

The lodge pays five-dollar weekly sick benefits, and eighty-dollar funeral benefits at the death of a brother, and fifty dollars at the death of a brother's wife.

Since its existence it has furnished three representatives to the grand lodge of Ohio, for the Fifty-ninth district, as follows: Charles Tresch, in 1865 and 1866; Henry Bohl, in 1871 and 1872; Jacob Rech, in 1875 and 1876; and Henry B ohl again for 1881 and 1882.

Henry Bohl was appointed in 1878 by Grand Master Henry C. Hedges, of Mansfield, Ohio, as deputy grand master, but declined the honor in favor of Brother A. M. Creighbaum, of Marietta Lodge, No. 67. He was again appointed in 1880 by Grand Master H. P. Gravatt, of Columbus, Ohio, but again declined, this time in favor of Brother George Lauer, of Palmer Lodge, No. 351, Lower Salem, Ohio.

HARMAR LODGE, NO. 115.

This lodge was instituted August 5, 1848, by Edson B. Olds, grand master, with the following as charter members, viz.: Jonathan S0ule, Willard Mansfield, William H. Widgen, William C. Olney, L. E. W. Warner, William L McCowan and Joseph Rumbold. The first officers chosen were Jonathan Soule, N. G.; William C. Olney, V. G.; L. E. W. Warner, secretary; William H. Widgen, treasurer. The lodge has a membership of about thirty-five. A neatly furnished and attractrve hall in the old brick building fronting on market square, and built by the Sons of Temperance, is the meeting place.

MISCELLANEOUS ORGANIZATIONS.

KNIGHTS OF PYTHIAS.

Raynald Lodge, No. 82, was organized in its present comfortable and well appointed lodgeroom, on Front street, May 27, 1875. The charter members were: A. P. Beach, Thomas Clark, M. Dye, W. C. Greenway, J. T. Mathews, M. McMillen, L W. Phillips, W. T. Westgate, A. P. Brigham, L. D. Davis, J. M. Fuller, A. H. Hill, William B, Mason, R. D. McKinney, J. C. Smith, T. N. Woodruff, J. C. Folger and J. W. Sturgiss. The lodge has at present about thirty-five members.

INDEPENDENT ORDER OF RED MEN.

Manhattan tribe, No. 35, of this secret and benevolent order, was instituted January 27, 1868, and received its charter July 23d, of the same year. The first chiefs elected were as follows: Henry Bohl, sachem; Philip Schramm, senior sagamore; Fred Blume, junior sagamore; H. Michaelis, Ch. of R.; William Raeser, K. of W.; Charles Tresch, prophet. The lodge is in a flourishing condition, and has about half a hundred members.

DER MARIETTA TURN-VERIN.

This society, which has for its object the physical and intellectual improvement of its members, and the fostering and promoting of the use of the German language and observance of German customs, was organized July 31, 1872. The original members were: A. Reinhart, first turnwart; A. Rech, vice-resident; William Raeser, jr., treasurer; C. H. Etz, secretary; John Gerken, second turnwart; Fred Raeser, Charles Haberling, George Hennemann, John H. Lehnhard, F. Morganstem, George Bachmann, jr., William Becker, D. W. Strauss, Peter Kung, jr., Fred Meister, president; John F. Schmidt, John Wagner, and Louis Mueller. The society has at present but a small membership. During its best days the Turn-verin had, in the hall in Bosworth, Wells & Co.'s building, a very good apparatus for athletic exercises.

ST. JOSEPH'S CATHOLIC BENEVOLENT SOCIETY.

This society attached to the (Roman) Catholic church was organized June 6, 1869. The late Louis Schmidt was its first president; John A. Slattery was secretary, and L. Goeble treasurer. The society has about forty members, and the organization is thriving.

OHIO VALLEY COUNCIL NO. 543, ROYAL ARCANUM,

was instituted November 25, 1880, with the following charter members: E. P. Bartlett, George Caywood, R. B. Hoover, Murray McMillen, Zina Lapham, C. B. McCaskey, F. L. Coleman, J. C. McCarty, J. L. Reckard, William Wood, A. J. Richards, Louis McCollister, J. D. Cotton, L. B. Devol, and G. J. Lund. The officers are: J. D. Cotton, regent; R. B. Hoover, secretary. . Meetings are held on the first and third Thursdays of every month.