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Full
History of Lodge 214
IN 1870 it took a
long time to go along the coast of California from the mission town
of San Buenaventura, to the other mission town of Santa Barbara. The
best way to travel then was by horse and buggy. And the road was a
rough and rugged one. Where the causeway was later built along the
Rincon highway, travelers could pass only at low tide. Journeys had
to be timed according to the tide, and it took at least six hours to
make the trip one way.
We can almost hear the conversation on that long road, coming home
from the Lodge at Santa Barbara Saturday night on the full moon,
when Lemuel C. McKeeby said to Brice Grimes and Henry Spear: "Why
don't we have a Masonic Lodge in San Buenaventura?" They heartily
agreed, and the rest of the ride really seemed short because of the
plans they were formulating.
This was, perhaps, the very first thing which occurred in the
history of San Buenaventura Lodge, No. 214, Free and Accepted Masons
of the State of California.
On page 1 of Vol. I of the priceless minute books of San
Buenaventura Lodge it is set forth that November 5, 1870, at 3
o'clock p.m. eleven brethren of the craft "recognized by each other
as Master Masons" assembled at the Santa Claire Hotel in the town of
San Buenaventura for the purpose of taking the necessary measures
for the establishment of a lodge of Free and Accepted Masons "in
this place." Lemuel C. McKeeby was selected to confer with Henry
Spear to arrange for the rental of a hall in a building then being
constructed.
Six weeks later, December 17, 1870, the next meeting was held in the
same place. The committee to secure the hall reported they had
secured a lease on a room in Spear's Hall at $50.00 a month, the
room being 40 by 22 feet, with two ante-rooms. This was a
second-story room in a two-story building at the southwest corner of
Palm and Main Streets. These arrangements were approved.
At this meeting it was decided to call the new lodge "San
Buenaventura Lodge." Its first officers were nominated for
recommendation to the Grand Master: Lemuel C. McKeeby, Master; J.E.
Stevens, Senior Warden; L.D. Chillson, Junior Warden; and a petition
was ordered to be presented to the new Grand Master for a
dispensation to form and open the new lodge.
At the third meeting, December 28, 1870, the petition for
dispensation was signed by the following charter members of the
lodge:
L.C. McKeeby Santa Barbara Lodge No. 192
L. Cerf Fidelity Lodge No. 120
R. G. Livingston Alamo No. 122
Andrew Clemmans Escurial No. 7
Tarlton Colwell Tuolumne No. 8
Robert Ramson Agusta No 45, Ark.
Wm D. Alaxander Tuolumne No. 8
Robert Ramson August No. 45, Ark
L.D. Chillson Washoe No. 157, Nev.
Henry Spear Santa Barbara, No 192
E.A. Edwards Palmyra No. 151
H.W. Snow Naval 87
Brice Grimes San Luis Obispo No. 148
V.A. Simpson Mumy No 380, N.Y.
T.B. Nicerson Mumy No. 380, N.Y.
A.B. Smith Michigan City No. 47
Joseph Everett Stevens Alamo No. 122
Geo A. Ash Independence No. 76
Edward A. Bedell Arktares No. 80
John T. Snow Santa barbara No. 192
Robert N. Riggs Franklin No. 7, Ark.
To defray expenses the committee levied an assessment of six dollars
upon each of the brethren, securing a total of $102.00
The first knowledge the public had of San Buenaventura Lodge was a
notice in Volume One, No. 4, of the Ventura Signal, published at San
Buenaventura, Santa Barbara County, California, Saturday, May 13,
1871.
There was then in this locality a population of 800 men, women and
children, mostly newcomers attracted by the genial climate and rich
agricultural lands of this favored area. Unlike most pioneer
settlements of the American in his conquest of this continent, there
was already here the beginnings of a civilization. The Mission
Fathers had laid its foundations.
But the American brought with him, as always, the Protestant Church,
the school, the newspaper, and the Masonic Lodge. These institutions
have endured and prospered and grown in our beloved San
Buenaventura, through good times and bad, through war and
pestilence, through happy days and sorrowful ones, through sun and
shade and storm and quiet for three-quarters of a century. The good
things of our little city; its clean government, its institutions of
learning, its libraries, its modern up-to-date public utilities were
dreamed of and put into effect, and have been carried on by men and
women of good will. And not the least among such men have been the
brethren of the Masonic fraternity.
THE FIRST TYLED MEETING
And then came the first meeting under dispensation, March 4, 1871,
when San Buenaventura lodge was opened in due and ancient form on
the third degree of Masonry.
The first petition for affiliation was received from Orthe Oswald.
Petitions for the degrees were received from eight candidates, six
of whom were later elected, and two rejected.
TROUBLE
One of the rejected candidates was a prominent citizen of the town.
As happens sometimes, his friends in the lodge were outraged. A
petition was presented to the Grand Master for a dispensation to
ballot again upon this candidate. The dispensation was granted; this
time he was elected, and in due time received the degrees. He made a
good steady member for many years until his death, when he was
buried by the lodge.
THE FIRST DEGREES
April 1, 1871, the first degrees were conferred, the Entered
Apprentice degree upon Louis Glass and Truman Fletcher Chapman.
On June 17, 1871, Brother Chapman became the first candidate to
receive the sublime degree of Master Mason in the new lodge.
THE LODGE IS CHARTERED
At the annual convocation of the California Grand Lodge in October,
1871, a charter was granted to the new lodge. November 6, 1871, the
first meeting under charter was held when the lodge was duly
constituted and its officers installed. Owing to the difficulties of
transportation of the times, it was not possible for the Grand
Officers to attend and Grand Lodge was formed and opened by brethren
living here, appointed by the Grand Master.
THE FIRST ELECTION AND INSTALLATION
December 23, 1871, the first election of officers was held,
resulting in the election of Lemuel Clarke McKeeby, Master; J.C.
Stevens, Senior Warden; and L.D. Chillson, Junior Warden. The first
installation was held December 27, 1871, whereupon the lodge was
called off and the brethren marched in a body to the Presbyterian
Church where they listened to an oration by Rev. Bro. H.H. Dobbins.
For many years the annual recurrence of St. John's day was
commemorated. Installations were held as near to that date as
possible. Generally, on the Sunday nearest the day the members
attended church service in a body. And generally the installations
culminated in a grand dinner and ball.
As an aside, indicative of the monetary situation of that day, it
was decided that the tyler would be compensated $2 for each meeting
and the secretary $2 a month.
THE FIRST CORNERSTONE
In 1872, the trustees of San Buenaventura School District decided to
construct a brick building for school purposes and invited the lodge
to lay the cornerstone with appropriate Masonic ceremonies. This was
the first school building of any moment in San Buenaventura. For
many years it stood, on the point below the cross on the hill above
the city - a landmark looking out across the Pacific.
The Grand Master authorized and empowered the Master of the Lodge to
open Grand Lodge and lay the cornerstone. September 16, 1872, Grand
Lodge was convened in the lodge room, officered by members of San
Buenaventura Lodge. Then the members marched to the school and there
laid its foundation stone.
The ceremony was interesting and impressive. An oration was
delivered by J. Franklin Williams, Esq. But he spoke under trying
circumstances, as he was facing the sun, and the great-grandfather
of all east winds threatened to lift the speaker and audience to the
cross on the hill back of the school. In spite of the inclement
weather, not less than two or three hundred persons were present.
THE FIRST PUBLIC INSTALLATION
At 2 o'clock in the afternoon, December 25, 1873, occurred the first
public installation of officers, Lemuel C. McKeeby again as Master.
The installing officer was Col. Jonathan Doan Hines, Missouri. Col.
Hines made a speech which was printed in full in the Ventura Signal.
And an original poem was delivered by Col. J.E. Stevens, which is as
follows:
"The gloom of night had spread it's pall
Oe'r Nature's primal face, and all
That chaos names had spanned
The dreary waste we call the land
On man the sombre spell was thrown,
And Passion claimed him as its own;
And blood ran from each altar's base,
And bribes gave infamy a place.
Then to the rescue of our name
Our Order rose, a beacon flame,
To plan, with wisdom from above,
A system of fraternal love.
And strength to stem the rushing flood
Of passion, perfidy and blood,
Was blended with a beauty rare,
That taught the use of mystic square.
Along the stream of passing time
It spread its harmonies sublime,
And taught the truth by mystic tie
That love is nature's harmony.
Then let men gather to the feast
From north to south, from west to east,
And on our checkered pavement stand
And truth receive thro' the right hand;
And, as the worthy craftsman may,
By skill and patience, work his way
Within the chamber where the oil
With corn and wine, shall pay his toil.
Let each, upon the quarried stone,
Record his deeds of duty done.
And as, within each faithful breast
They symbol's uses are impressed,
The listening ear of man shall catch
The living harmonies we teach.
Then, as we raise the great key stone,
That signifies our work is done;
Beneath the gleam of flaming sword
Received the whispered mystic word
That ope's the portals to the throne
Where each must tread, and tread alone.
Let memory whisper words of cheer,
And pour into each listening ear
A record of the deeds of love
Recorded in the Lodge above."
The installation wound up with a grand ball at the Mission Hotel,
which was well attended, and was enjoyed by all. Thomas R. Bard, a
member of the lodge, later United States Senator from California,
was installed as treasurer.
RENT TROUBLES
In 1874 the Lodge had rent troubles. At a stated meeting, a request
was made by another lodge, a tenant in the building, to have its
rent reduced, whereupon a resolution was proposed that the hall be
rented to and occupied by the Masonic Order only. This resolution
was debated at length and was lost. Then a resolution was presented
to reduce the rent, which resolution was likewise debated at length
and lost. Finally a resolution to reduce the rent of another lodge
using the hall was also debated at length and lost. Then later the
rent was reduced.
OUR FIRST MASTER ENDS HIS SERVICE AS MASTER
December 19, 1874, the several terms of our first Master came to an
end, and the following resolution was adopted by the lodge:
"Resolved that the thanks of this Lodge be tendered to Brother L.C.
McKeeby for the faithful, able, and impartial manner in which he has
presided over the Lodge since its organization and that as a tribute
of the respect which we entertain for his high character as a
Brother and officer and as a memorial of our regard and personal
esteem, that a photograph of our worthy Brother and Master be
ordered and accorded a perpetual place upon the east wall of the
Lodge room."
Thus was inaugurated the custom in San Buenaventura Lodge of having
pictures taken and framed of each of its retiring masters, a custom
which has been continued from that date until this.
In later years, and with changing places of abode for the Lodge,
Brother McKeeby's picture has been changed from the east wall of the
lodge room to its honorable place as the first of a long line of
splendid Past Masters.
DEATH OF A SOJOURNING BROTHER
April 10, 1875, Capt. James Miner, a member of the Golden Gate Lodge
No. 30 died on board the schooner California. His remains were taken
in charge by a committee appointed by the Lodge and at the request
of his friends were placed aboard the steamer Constantine, to be
transported to his home in San Francisco.
ROYAL ARCH ORGANIZED
In 1875, a chapter of Royal Arch Masons of the State of California
was organized, and the Lodge premises rented to it.
FUNERALS
In 1876 the Lodge buried one of its early members, William Rose
Bradshaw, who died September 26, 1876. In this and all other
funerals for many years the following procedure was had:
The body was placed in the lodge room, the Lodge then formed a
procession and escorted the remains to a church for the funeral
sermon, after which the members of the Lodge, marching in
procession, accompanied the body to its last resting place in the
city cemetery. There the impressive burial service of the Craft was
delivered by the officers. This cemetery now serves as a city park
in the 1300 block of Main Street.
TYLER TROUBLE
In 1880 there was a disagreement with the tyler. He was a splendid
old gentleman, with years of service in the lodge and good standing
in the community. He must have been getting old, because he refused
to serve further as tyler. There were oil lamps in those days, and
the wicks had to be trimmed, and the chimneys cleaned. It was
charged that he failed to clean the lamp or trim the wicks, or even
to light the lamps in the Lodge room, or to clean the Lodge room in
any manner. Whereupon there must have been some red hot interviews,
because the old gentleman told the brethren on a committee which
interviewed him where to get off. In any event the Lodge selected a
new tyler. But, evidently there were no more hard feelings, because
this good brother was paid in full for his services and continued a
member in good standing.
GARFIELD OBSEQUIES
In 1881 occurred the death of President James A. Garfield. He was,
as have been many presidents of the United States of America, a
Master Mason. His lifetime effort from a humble canal boy to the
highest office in the United States, his dramatic assassination, and
his gallant fight for life ending with his death 80 days after he
was shot, created a profound impression upon the minds of the Masons
of this country. In California almost every Masonic Lodge held a
Lodge of sorrow, with appropriate tribute paid to life and memory of
our martyred president.
September 26, 1881, San Buenaventura Lodge met with a full
compliment of officers and members, and adjourned to take part in
the public tribute to the memory of the late president. The city was
crowded with people who came from all parts of the county at odd
times all during the day. A procession was formed, headed by a brass
band, followed by the Masonic Order, other orders, and a hearse. The
hearse was flanked by honorary pall bearers, all members of the
Lodge. There were at least a thousand persons in line. Then came the
ceremonies held upon the grounds of the Saxby place, with prayers,
speeches and appropriate resolution of sorrow.
VENTURA COMMANDERY ESTABLISHED
In 1881 Ventura Commandery was formed, and was rented quarters by
the Lodge.
RECEPTION TO GRAND MASTER HINES
October 27, 1883, a reception was tendered to our Past Master
Jonathan Doan Hines upon the occasion of his election to and
installation as Grand Master of Masons of the State of California.
Bro. Hines was escorted to an honored chair in the Lodge and made a
few well chosen remarks; then the Lodge adjourned in a body to the
refreshment hall, where amid toasts and good cheer the evening was
spent with pleasure to all. Later the Lodge paid bills for the
banquet totaling $209.50. The program appears below:
PROGRAMME
Opening of the Lodge.
Reception of t the Grand Master.
Labor to Refreshments.
"Welcome Address," N. Blackstock.
Banquet - Toasts.
"Grand Master of the State" - Response, W.M. M. Cannon.
"Santa Barbara Lodges" - Response, E.P. Foster.
"San Buenaventura Lodge" - Response, L.F. Eastin.
"To Our Three Ancient Grand Masters" - Response, W.A. Knighten.
"To the Wives and Daughters of Masons" - Response, N.C. Bledsoe.
"Our Visiting Brethren" - Response, J.S. Collins.
"The Principles of Masonry" - Response, E.S. Hall.
"The Mystic Tie" - Response, J.A. Day.
"Duties of Masons" - Response, N.W. Blanchard.
"The Past of Masonry" - Response, J.M. Brooks.
"Widows and Orphans of Masons" - Response, K.P. Grant.
"Grand Lodge of California" - Response, E.T. Hare.
"To the Charter Members of San Buenaventura Lodge, Lodge No. 214,
F. & A. M." - Response, L. Cerf.
Indeed, they were men in those days - men who could take it. It
seems a requirement for this meeting was an iron seat-of-the-pants.
One wonders what time they went home.
CORNERSTONE OF TOWN HALL LAID
November 17, 1833, Grand Lodge convened, with Grand Master Hines
presiding, for the purpose of laying the cornerstone of the town
hall and public library being erected by the town authorities of San
Buenaventura.
Proceedings were inaugurated with a song from the quartet - Messrs.
Brewster, Oliver, Forth and Wagner - after which the Grand Chaplain,
W.A. Knighten, rendered an impressive prayer. The Grand Master then
delivered an address, there was a selection by the band, and the
cornerstone was laid with due and ancient ceremony.
EASTERN STAR CHARTERED
It was in this year that Ventura Chapter No. 79, Order of the
Eastern Star was chartered.
DEDICATION OF NEW HALL
At the meeting December 27, 1884, a new hall was dedicated, the
Lodge having moved from the old Spear's Hall. The new lodge room was
on the second floor building on the southwest corner of Main and
California Streets.
For thirteen years San Buenaventura Lodge occupied the first lodge
room. It was small and inconvenient; its furnishings were crude and
homely; it was noisy and inadequate; but some of the finest men in
California practiced our ancient craft in that old lodge room; and
they practiced it well.
A memorable feature of our leaving the old Lodge room was an
original poem written by "Father" Amos Dudley Seward, "The Old Lodge
Room."
THE OLD LODGE ROOM
The genius of the old abandoned Lodge
Thus whispers in mason's listening ear:
Farewell! Farewell! A last farewell they said.
With joy they went, and yet that last farewell
Was said with saddened voice all tremulous.
I would have echoed back the sad farewell,
If walls might speak, to tell their tender grief.
They lie that say a heart of stone can't feel
They do not know my sorrow, though they've seen
My tears trickle on their checkered floor.
I now remember well, each work of skill
Within these walls commenced, or finished here,
Since first their footsteps pressed this lodge room floor.
I've seen so oft the working of the craft,
With rule, and compass, plumb, and trusty square,
And trowel's lesson of fraternal love,
That I rejoice with brother mason's joy,
And sorrow when his troubled spirit grieves.
I've seen the human ashlar, rough and rude
Raised from the quarry at the master's work,
Laid out by rule, by axe and hammer dressed,
By chisel's edge, and mallet's force made smooth,
The polished o'er and o'er by process rare,
Till when the master came t' inspect the work,
He saw his own fair face reflected back;
And then by plummet, line, and level's tests,
Set firmly in the mystic temple's wall.
I've seen the living arch in grandeur rise;
They keystone set in place, with shout of joy.
I've seen the rejected work come into use,
And take high place within the living wall.
I've seen the hailing sign of brother's woe,
And heard the word on points of fellowship.
Yea all the secrets of the mystic art,
Since time unknown, so far remote they date,
I've heard, and seen, and conned then o'er so oft,
Their slightest change is discord to my ear.
Of late I've seen the jeweled pentagon,
Of mason's widow, sister, daughter, wife,
And mother's names, inlaid as precious pearls,
And diamond gems, on points of Eastern Star,
Yet well I've earned the obligation firm,
And never secret 'scape my faithful breast.
No mystic word has e'er been dropped by me
Within reach of list'ning ear profane.
For more than thirteen years, their jewels rare
I've watched, and watching, kept the sleepless guard;
And e'en their charter, warrant for their work,
Has never passed till now beyond my care.
But all are gone with that one word farewell.
These thoughts bring sadness to a heart of stone.
These naked walls would now, and evermore,
Till time shall crumble down the adamant,
Re-echo o'er and o'er, farewell! Farewell!
PROPOSED MASONIC LIBRARY
About this time the Lodge became interested in Masonic literature. A
copy of "Solomon's Temple or the Holy Houses" was purchased.
Brethren were asked to donate or loan to the Lodge any Masonic books
or literature which they had, and the secretary was instructed to
subscribe for the "Masonic Record." Bro. A.D. Seward donated to the
Lodge "Transitions of Free Masonry" by A.F.C. Parson.
FINAL ELECTION AND DEATH OF BRO. HINES
At the stated meeting December 11, 1886, Bro. Jonathan Doan Hines
was again elected Master, having completed his term as Grand Master.
But he was not installed because of his accidental death December
30, 1886.
GAS COMES TO THE HALL
In 1886 arrangements were made to get a supply of gas throughout the
lodge rooms.
SANTA PAULA LODGE ORGANIZED
May 26, 1888, a petition was received from brethren of Santa Paula
requesting favorable action by the Lodge upon their petition to
Grand Lodge to form and organize a Masonic Lodge in that place,
which was of course granted.
CHARITY
Illustration of the charity implicit in the conduct of any Masonic
lodge is the recital in the minutes that the Worshipful Master
reported the case of a stranger, member of a Lodge in Massachusetts,
who was sick and alone and for whom the Master had employed a nurse.
On motion the Master was ordered to continue the assistance and
communicate with the Massachusetts Lodge to ascertain their pleasure
in regard to the brother. Later on it is recorded that this
Massachusetts Lodge did reimburse San Buenaventura Lodge for all
expenses incurred.
BUSINESS DEALINGS WITH THE EASTERN STAR
A motion was ordered that the organ, the property of the Lodge be
turned over to the Chapter of the Eastern Star, to be used by them
in part payment of a piano, the piano to become the property of the
Lodge.
WE MOVE AGAIN
In 1889 initial steps were taken for a new hall and arrangements
entered into with owners of the property to build the same and to
rent it to the Lodge. The building which was subsequently erected
still stands and is the property of the local Odd Fellows Lodge on
Main Street in Ventura. The lease was for ten years at $50.00 per
month. In January, 1890, the Lodge moved to its third hall, along
with the Chapter, the Commandery, and the Eastern Star. It was
during the eight years that the Lodge occupied this property that
some of the most elaborate banquets and installation in its history
were held. Those were the halcyon days of old Hueneme, when merchant
princes of the day vied with each other in giving banquets and
entertainment's - lucullian affairs in Hueneme Lodge spoke of with
awe by old timers who attended them. San Buenaventura had to at
least try to keep up with her brilliant daughter.
ELECTRIC LIGHTS
During 1891 the Lodge installed electric lights, and entered into a
contract with the Ventura Land and Power Company to provide the same
at the rate of $5.00 per month, "the Power Company to make good all
time lost."
NEW LODGE AT HUENEME
At the stated meeting April 9, 1892, petition was received from the
brethren resident in the area to form and open a new lodge at
Hueneme in this County.
PURCHASES
One-half dozen lambskin aprons were purchased at $9.00 per dozen.
MASONIC WIDOWS AND ORPHANS FUND
The first contribution of the Lodge was made to the Masonic widows
and orphans home. It was unanimously resolved that the Lodge pledge
$100.00 toward a fund to be used for the erection of the Masonic
home at Decoto.
MORE THAN ONE DEGREE PER EVENING
July 27, 1895, for the first time in the history for the Lodge the
Fellow Craft degree was conferred upon two candidates in one
evening.
In this year there was considerable trouble with the owners of the
hall, and a resolution was adopted advocating the purchase of
suitable land and the building of a Masonic Temple thereon.
ANOTHER MOVE
July 30, 1898, another change of lodge halls was discussed. It was
proposed to rent the entire third floor of a building to be built by
the Collins Bank at the southwest corner of California and Main
streets. The rental was not to exceed $40.00 per month.
This was the last meeting in the old hall, because on the night of
July 30, 1898, a fire of unknown origin practically destroyed the
interior of the building. Water and fire rendered useless much of
the contents of the Lodge room. Pictures of the Past Masters were
injured, but were later replaced or restored. In its predicament,
the Lodge gratefully accepted the invitation of the Independent
Order of Odd Fellows to use their hall.
The agreement for occupancy of the new hall, in addition to fixing
the rental terms, provided also that the Lodge should have the right
to purchase the third floor of the building to be erected. This
option, however, was never exercised.
OUR FIRST BROTHER IN THE MASONIC HOME
During 1898, for the first time in the history of the Lodge, a
brother was admitted to the Masonic Home at Decoto. Later records
disclose several interesting letters from this brother; that the
Lodge paid his doctor bills and bought him glasses; looked after him
with fraternal care all his life, and paid his funeral bills.
J.L. ARGABRITE
Bro. J.L. Argabrite was re-elected secretary year after year for
twenty years. Upon his death his enlarged photograph was hung in the
tyler's room.
RENT ALSO PAID BY OTHER BODIES
The rent schedules for the new lodge room were fixed as follows:
Ventura Commandery, $10.00 per month; Royal Arch, $10.00 per month;
Eastern Star, $5.00 per month; balance to be paid by the lodge,
$15.00 per month. Later the rental of the Eastern Star was reduced
to $2.50 per month; then back to $5.00; then down, then up again.
WE OCCUPY THE NEW HALL
The Lodge moved to the new hall with an elaborate dedication
ceremony, August 13, 1899. This hall was in a brownstone building on
the corner of Main and California, the same location as our second
hall.
WE GET INTO TWO LAWSUITS
No history of San Buenaventura Lodge would be complete without a
recital of the two law suits in which the Lodge was an interested
party. Jacob L. Gries, around the turn of the century was a
well-to-man. After many years of married life, his first wife died.
After an interval he married a widow of Ventura County who had
considerable property inherited from her first husband. Not long
after her marriage to Mr. Gries the second Mrs. Gries died. When her
will was probated, it was found that part of it read as follows:
"I also give and bequeath and devise to my said husband all that
portion of my real estate property in Ventura County, California,
lying on the east sides of Saviers road, and north of the row of
gum-trees and more particularly described as followed, to-wit:
...containing 99.58 acres, as shown upon map of my real property
made by George C. Power in June, 1895.
"It is my desire and I hereby request my said husband to convey in
such manner and at such times as he may deem best, under contract of
otherwise, the said above-described 99.58 acres of land to Ventura
Lodge, No. 214, A.F. & A.M., of the town of San Buenaventura,
California, or to trustees for its use and benefit in such manner as
to impose upon said lodge or the trustees thereof the obligation to
properly care for, protect, and maintain in good order the cemetery
lot in said Springfield Cemetery in which I may be buried."
The will then gave to Mr. Gries a life estate in other separate
property belonging to the widow, with remainder to other
beneficiaries.
But Mr. Gries refused to convey the property to the Lodge. After
trial in the Superior Court and appeal to the California Supreme
Court it was held that the language of the will was such that it was
not mandatory upon him to convey the property, or to even hold it in
trust for the lodge, and therefore the Lodge received nothing under
the will. (Kauffman v. Gries, 141 Cal. 295.)
In the same will there was also a bequest to the lodge of $1,000.00
for the purpose of taking care of the burial lot of Mrs. Gries. Mr.
Gries likewise refused to pay the $1,000.00 to the Lodge, but in a
later case his estate was forced to do so. (Kauffman v. Foster, 3
Cal. App. 741.)
Having received the $1,000.00, the Lodge was obligated to take care
of the Springfield cemetery lot. In later years, anticipating the
abandonment of the Springville cemetery, the Lodge purchased lots
under perpetual care in Ivy Lawn cemetery and moved the bodies and
headstones of Mrs. Gries and her family to that location.
With eighty-five members this protracted and expensive litigation
was a heavy burden upon the Lodge for many years.
THE READY FAMILY
July 22, 1919, Bro. William E. Ready was present in Lodge with his
three sons, members of the craft; Charles E. Ready, member of San
Buenaventura Lodge, Virgil Elbert Ready, member of Elwood Lodge,
Cleveland, Ohio, and Lester Seward Ready, member of Berkeley Lodge
No. 363, Berkeley, California. All of these boys were raised in San
Buenaventura Lodge, and in conferring the degrees their father was
senior deacon. "Bill" Ready was always considered our most
proficient ritualistic in the work of senior deacon. And this
wonderful Masonic Family goes up and down linearly was well as
collaterally. Amos Dudley Seward, known as "Father" Seward, chaplain
of our Lodge for twenty-five years, was the father of Mrs. William
E. Ready, grandfather of the generation named above.
CORNERSTONE MASONIC TEMPLE, OXNARD
In 1900, the lodge was invited to attend the cornerstone laying of
the Masonic Temple at Oxnard. Many members attended and were pleased
with the entertainment.
TYPEWRITTEN MINUTES
March 22, 1902, for the first time, all the pages of minutes of the
Lodge appears in typewriting. It was a resolution drafted by a
committee and adopted by the Lodge expressing regret at the death of
a visiting brother and condolences to his widow and family.
THE MEETING NIGHT IS CHANGED
Before July 16, 1910, all Lodge meetings had been held on Saturday
on or before the full moon. On this date it was resolved that
thereafter the lodge meet on Tuesday on or before the full moon. The
matter had been discussed and debated at length on two stated
meetings.
GRAND MASTER WILLIAM P. FILMER VISITS #214
One of the highlights of 1913 was the visit to M.W. Grand Master
William P. Filmer, April 12, 1913. There were present two hundred
visiting Masons, officers and members of Lodges of Santa Barbara,
Oxnard, Santa Paula and Fillmore.
A LETTER FROM OUR FIRST MASTER
At this meeting a letter was read from our first Master: -
Hollywood, Cal. Apr. 4th 1913
"Fred Mercer:
My Dear Sir & Brother:
Your very kind letter of invitation to be present at a meeting of
your lodge on the 13th inst. was duly received and contents noted. I
appreciate your thoughtfulness in sending me this invitation.
I have a great reverence for the Masonic Order and your Lodge in
particular, having had the honor of being chosen its first Master
and retaining that position for some five years.
I feel that during these early years some of the most prominent
citizens of your County became members of our order, two in
particular I mention to-wit: Jonathan Doan Hines, my immediate
successor, subsequently became Grand Master of the State of
California and the Hon. Thomas R. Bard, who subsequently became
United States Senator. I am very proud of your county, and of your
Lodge, and take pride in the various other Masonic bodies in your
County of which your Lodge is the parent lodge. I have neglected
answering your letter hoping I might see my way clear to be with you
in person, I have finally concluded it is best for me to forego that
pleasure for this time owing to my age and infirmities. However, I
will give you in a few words some of my Masonic history, Viz: I was
made a Mason in Manzanita Lodge 102 of this State in 1856, from that
time to the present I have been a contributing member of some Lodge
Viz: "Carson City," "Santa Barbara," "Ventura" and Pentalpha 202, of
which I am now a member, in my 88th year.
I may not be the oldest Mason in the State, but I possibly may be
the oldest California Master Mason in the State, who has never been
unattached to some Lodge.
In conclusion, my dear brother, I wish to say that I feel that you,
and through you, your lodge will forgive me if I am absent from your
interesting meeting of the evening of the 12th installation.
Trusting the meeting may be one of profit to the lodge and pleasant
to all concerned, I subscribe myself
Yours fraternally, L.C. McKeeby
DISSATISFACTION WITH THE HALL
In this year, discontentment with the lodge hall was again
expressed. Ventilation was terrible. A committee on ventilation was
appointed, as was a committee to consult with members relative to
the advisability of purchasing a lot appropriate to building a
Masonic Temple.
MINUTES IN TYPEWRITING
January 6, 1914, is a red letter day respecting the records of the
Lodge. Up until that time the minutes were written in long hand, in
old fashioned ledger books. There had been a few pages written in
typewriting, but with tightly bound pages of a ledger book,
typewriting was not practicable. At this time the secretary
purchased a loose-leaf ledger, and from January 6, 1914, the minutes
were then bound into a book.
Unfortunately there are several breaks in the minutes, because of
the sudden death of Past Master Frank C. Doty, who served the Lodge
as secretary for nearly seventeen years. It is thought that these
minutes were kept by Bro. Doty in a separate book, possibly for
safekeeping, but after his death they could not be found.
WE FAIL TO GET A NEW TEMPLE
In 1915 the Lodge resolved to purchase a lot for a new Temple.
Opposition to the plan was so vigorous and sustained by owners of
the bank building, that it finally caused the abandonment of the
plan. Two of the members who had advanced $250.00 each to purchase
an option on the lot on Main street were reimbursed by the Lodge, so
we lost $500.00. Subsequently when the owners of the bank building
decided to tear it down and build a new building, without any
quarters for the Lodge, it was done without regard to its effect
upon the Lodge, and with very little notice.
FIRST CONTRIBUTION TO THE ENDOWMENT FUND
On December 5, 1916, the report of the first endowment committee for
funds for Masonic homes was received by the Lodge. With other lodges
in this Masonic district, the Lodge subscribed $443.83.
THE FIRST WORLD WAR
The first world war ended in this year, 1918. Throughout the war,
contributions were regularly made by the Lodge to the Masonic War
Fund and the American Red Cross. A service flag was procured, with
thirteen stars representing the members of the Lodge who served in
that great conflict.
The names of the members of this Lodge who served in the first world
war were: George L. Barnes; Karl Van Horn Cavanah; James C. Dunn;
Will J. Lewis; Richard N. Hayden; Carl P. Olsen; Rodney J. Putman;
Chester F. Robbins; Harry Van Delinder; Daniel V. Webster; Victor D.
Weldon; James B. Stone, and Louis C. Drapeau. Sons of two of the
brethren lost their lives in the first world war: Sheldon Gerry and
Wallace H. Chaffee.
OUR FLAG IS FIRST ADVANCED TO ITS PROPER PLACE
February 2, 1918, for the first time the flag of our Country was
escorted to its appropriate place in the Lodge room. M.W. Wm. Rhodes
Hervey was received as Grand Master and made one of his
characteristic and wonderful addresses. He held the attention of
more than 250 brethren present for two and one half hours. Bro.
Hervey was one of the most popular of all our Grand Masters, and
thereafter addressed the Lodge upon many occasions.
THE ARGABRITES
By special dispensation of the Grand Master, Walter M. Argabrite,
then in the armed forces and on his way overseas, was initiated,
passed and raised, October 3, 1918, October 4, 1918, and October 14,
1918, respectively.
This was a proud and happy time for our former secretary, Jacob L.
Argabrite. His was a wonderful Masonic Family. He had the good
fortune to live to see Walter take his degrees in this phenomenally
short time, and to see two of his sons serve as Master of his Lodge.
SIXTY CANDIDATES RAISED
During the two years of this Master, sixty candidates were raised,
twenty-nine were received by affiliation, and the lodge practically
doubled in membership.
In fact, on June 4, 1919, for the first time five persons were
initiated in one evening. Thereafter, for many months it was
necessary to initiate five candidates each meeting.
INFLUENZA STRIKES
During these two years (1919 and 1920), the terrible influenza
epidemic in the United States fell with a heavy hand upon our Lodge.
A number of members passed away and funerals were conducted by the
lodge officers, sometimes two and three every day.
PAST MASTERS CONFER THIRD DEGREE
During the month of January, 1920, the third degree was conferred by
several past Masters as follows: Joseph M. Argabrite, Frederick W.
Baker, C.W. Cannon, Frank C. Doy, Herbert A. Giddings, Fred Mercer,
Earl. E. Moss, M.W. Phillips, W.E. Ready, D.J. Reese, and Merle J.
Rogers. This was the last time most of these men presided as Masters
all the way through in conferring the third degree.
VISIT OF GRAND MASTER CHARLES ADAMS
June 22, 1920, this Lodge was host to the several lodges of the 53rd
Masonic District upon the occasion of the visit of the Grand Master,
Charles Albert Adams. The program of the evening was a school of
instruction conducted by Grand Lecturer Thomas J. Baker.
FIRST OBSERVANCE OF PUBLIC SCHOOLS WEEK
September 28, 1920, was held the first observance of Public Schools
Week, which has been carried on annually ever since. For the first
few years these meetings were under the auspices of the Lodge,
thereafter they were under the auspices of the schools, with members
and officers of the Lodge taking an active part.
At this first school meeting, addresses were given by Mrs. Blanche
T. Reynolds, County Superintendent of Schools and wife of our Past
Master, James E. Reynolds, by Bro. Arthur L. Vincent, City
Superintendent of Schools, and by Merle J. Rogers, then Judge of the
Superior Court.
WE PURCHASE A LOT FOR A TEMPLE
December 7, 1920, the Master reported the purchase of a lot for a
Masonic Temple at a cost of $5,000.00.
OUR SECOND BROTHER AT DECOTO
January 4, 1921, a second brother went to the Masonic Home at Decoto.
He lived there happily all of the rest of his life.
WE APPOINT A BUILDING COMMITTEE
June 7, 1921, the following members of a building committee were
appointed by the Master: Louis C. Drapeau, Chairman, Henry C. Chase,
Charles W. Petit, David J. Reese, and Scott M. Wilson.
WE ASSIST IN PLACING CHILDREN IN COVINA HOME
The Lodge took necessary steps to secure entrance to the children's
home at Covina of three sisters, children of a deceased brother,
whose mother passed away in the influenza epidemic. The older
brother of these three sisters was placed in California Junior
Republic.
OUR FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY
October 4, 1921, the Lodge observed its 50th anniversary. David J.
Reese was chairman at the meeting; Bro. Robert Ramsauer, a charter
member was present, as was Bro. Delos D. DeNure, who was initiated
in the early days of this lodge. Bro. Merle J. Rogers gave a
historical review of the lodge, and the address of the evening was
given by Bro. Louis C. Drapeau.
GRAND MASTER SAMUEL E. BURKE VISITS LODGE
April 25, 1922, the Lodge was honored by a visit from Bro. Samuel E.
Burke, Grand Master.
SPECIAL TRAIN TO LOS ANGELES
On the occasion of the installation of Bro. Reese as Grand Master, a
special train was used by several hundred members of the Lodge
residing in Ventura County to go to Los Angeles.
POINSETTIA LODGE No. 633 FORMED
San Buenaventura Lodge is the parent lodge of all the lodges in
Ventura County. Oxnard secured favorable recommendation of Hueneme
Lodge, which had theretofore been recommended by San Buenaventura
Lodge; and Fillmore secured favorable recommendation of Santa Paula
Lodge, which had theretofore been favorably recommended by San
Buenaventura Lodge.
It was then recommended by San Buenaventura Lodge, and dispensation
to form and open Poinsettia Lodge No. 633 was issued by Grand Master
Albert E. Boynton, March 1, 1926. The first officers were Louis C.
Drapeau, Master; Conley L. LaForce, Senior Warden; and Cassie D.
Starnes, Junior Warden.
OJAI LODGE No. 663 ORGANIZED AND CHARTERED
March 12, 1927, Ojai Lodge No. 663 was organized and its charter was
granted November 9, 1927.
G.W. CHRISMAN, FIFTY YEARS OF MASONRY
Bro. G.W. Chrisman for fifty years a member of this Lodge, was
presented the Veteran's Award. The presentation was made by Bro.
Past Master E.P. Foster, the oldest member of the Lodge in point of
years.
WE LOSE OUR MEETING PLACE
The Bank building occupied by the Lodge was torn down and the Lodge
was entirely without a home. Together with Poinsettia Lodge it
occupied for a time two different halls on Main Street, neither of
which was satisfactory. They were small dirty, and tenants on the
ground floor with mechanical pianos and otherwise made a racket
which was unpleasant and disturbing at all times.
WE FINALLY BUILD OUR MASONIC TEMPLE
(Photo by Bro. Larry Young)
For fifty-nine years, Masonry in Ventura had no place to call its
own. All those years this Lodge moved from place to place. Sometimes
the moves were caused by the landlord; at others by dissatisfaction
of the brethren with the accommodations. But there was always the
hope that sometime we would have a home of our own.
Finally, in 1929 the dreams of nearly sixty years came true. The
Temple was built.
In order to build the Temple, and hold ownership to it, the Masonic
Temple Association was organized as a California corporation in
January, 1922. Stock of the corporation was subscribed by brethren
of San Buenaventura and Poinsettia Lodges, and partly by the Lodges
themselves.
Bro. Merle J. Rogers was the first president of the association. He
was succeeded by Bro. A.L. Hobson, since deceased, who held the
office from 1924 until 1929. Bro. T.C. Tychsen was the first
secretary. Bro. Hobson was succeeded by Bro. Louis C. Drapeau who
served as president of the association.
After buying and selling several lots, the association finally
determined to build upon the present location at the southwest
corner of California and Santa Clara Streets on March 1, 1929, the
first earth was turned, and was completed and furnished before the
end of that year. The cornerstone was laid by Grand Master Gustav A.
Hutaff, June 7, 1929.
The cost of construction was $149,000.00; the heating and
ventilation equipment, fixtures, furnishings and dining room
equipment brought the cost of the furnished building to $180,000.00;
valuing the lot at $45,000.00, makes that total investment
$225,000.00. In order to complete the building it was necessary for
the Temple Association to borrow $50,000.00. No payment of interest
or principal was ever missed, and the indebtedness was paid off and
the mortgage burned in 1937.
January 3, 1930, the Temple was dedicated in due and ancient form by
Grand Master Charles M. Wollenberg, Grand Lodge, and the brethren of
the two lodges which occupy it.
CEREMONY OF DEDICATION
Friday, January 3, 1930 - 7:30 p.m.
____________________________
INSTRUMENTAL PRELUDE
PROCESSION
Grand Master Charles M. Wollenberg and Grand Lodge Officers
Knight Templar Escort - Ventura Commandery No. 18
____________________________
INSTALLATION OF EMBLEM AND LIGHTS
____________________________
PLACING OF VESSELS OF CORN, WINE AND OIL
____________________________
INSTALLATION OF COLUMNS
REPRESENTING THE FIVE ORDERS OF ARCHITECTURE
____________________________
PRESENTATION OF AMERICAN FLAG
TO MASONIC TEMPLE
By San Buenaventura Lodge No. 214 - M.L. Brazil, Past Master
ACCEPTANCE OF FLAG ON BEHALF
OF TEMPLE ASSOCIATION
David J. Reese, Director
PRESENTATION OF GRAND PIANO TO MASONIC TEMPLE
By Ventura Council No. 15, R. and S.M.
Ernest O. Wakeford, Master
ACCEPTANCE OF PIANO ON BEHALF OF ASSOCIATION
Charles W. Petit, Director
PRESENTATION OF BUILDING TO STOCKHOLDERS
Louis C. Drapeau, President, Board of Directors
ACCEPTANCE OF BUILDING
Merle J. Rogers, P. M., San Buenaventura Lodge No. 214
DEDICATION
M. W. Charles M. Wollenberg, Grand Master and Grand Officers
VOCAL SOLOS
Otto Ploetz
ORATION
M. W. Benjamin F. Bledsoe, P.G.M.
BRIEF ADDRESSES
BENEDICTION
V.W. Bro. George H.B. Wright, Grand Chaplain
TWO MORE FIFTY YEAR BUTTONS
On the same occasion fifty year Golden Veteran buttons were
presented to Bros. Charles E. Healy and John A. Walker.
HARD TIMES
Just as the temple was completed and dedicated came the great
financial depression of the 1930's. The Temple Association had
borrowed to build and furnish the building; the lodges had borrowed
to purchase stock. Along with countless individuals, the Masonic
Temple Association entered upon a grim struggle for economic
survival. The ground floor of the Temple which was designed for
business, was entirely vacant for some considerable period of time.
Because the condition of the Temple Association and because of the
stress of the times, San Buenaventura lodge had to curtail its
social activities. There were few candidates; its members struggled
to pay dues, and the dues could not be lowered. Therefore, not a
great deal can be said of lodge activities during the terms of the
Masters who served in the 30's, except that each one of them
rendered yeoman service in saving the temple and in carrying the
lodge through these times.
CHANNEL COUNTIES MASON
March 5, 1935, Channel Counties Mason, edited by Ernest Reagan
Carey, was named the official bulletin of the lodge. The publication
became the official publication of all the lodges of Santa Barbara
and Ventura Counties and part of San Louis Obispo County, taking the
place of bulletins of individual lodges.\
POST OFFICE BUILDING CORNERSTONE
September 1, 1936, Grand Lodge laid the cornerstone of the new Post
Office building in Ventura. Rollie W. Miller, Past Grand Master, as
Grand Master, placed in a copper box records of the city, pictures,
rosters of various civic organi-zations, a copy of Channel Counties
Mason and other articles.
LODGE PAYS OFF STOCK DEBT
One of the outstanding events of this year was the payment by the
Lodge of its indebtedness to the Bank for money borrowed to purchase
stock in the Temple building. The Masonic Club was also started in
this year.
OUR BRETHREN IN THE SECOND WORLD WAR
As in the first world war, so in the second world war, there was a
flag with stars representing members in the armed services. Those
members were:
Peter Altpeter Marines Cecil C. Martin...........Army
Herman J. Ashton Navy LawranceJ. Mitchell....Army
James H. Boatner Navy Gerhard W. Neilson.....Navy
John G. Chase Army Charles Newman.........Navy
Howard J. Clow Navy George W. Ormsby.....Navy
Perry Wm. Coy Navy Harvy E. Owen............Navy
John C. Crump, Jr. Navy Hubert C. Parrish.........Navy
William F. Fear Navy Julius J. Renger...........Army
James E. Fulkerson Navy Edwin G. Schiller........Navy
Sidney L. Gardner Army Alfred M. Stanley.......Army
Juble E. Hendricks Navy Warren S. Taylor.........Army
William F. Hendrickson Army William Wardwell.......Navy
Noble S. Johnson Navy Wilbert L. Weihofen...Navy
Herman Kloppenburg Army Walter A. Welday.......Army
Milford C. Ludwig Navy Lloyd L. Wilson..........Army
William B. Lowe Navy Elmer G. Smith............Navy
A son of Bro. Eugene C. Kimball, Lt. Gordon Kimball, lost his life
in the service of his country in the second world war.
The Lodge invested in war bonds to its total resources.
75th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATED
February 9, 1946, the Lodge celebrated its 75th Anniversary. Past
Master Drapeau wrote a 75-year history of the Lodge, assisted by
Past Master Lemuel Coy, and it was published in honor of the
occasion. Roast turkey highlighted a banquet at which Brother Coy
cut the birthday cake made in the shape of a Masonic officer's
apron; white decorated in blue, with a blue compass and square on
the flap.
Present were Past Grand Masters Dana Weller, Rollie W. Miller, R. E.
Blight, Grand Lodge committeeman; G. A. Quick, Inspector; Ralph C.
Hine, Inspector; Most Worshipful Brother Drapeau, Past Masters of
both Ventura Lodges and Past Grand Master; and many other Masters
and Past Masters.
Lodge opened at eight o'clock on the third degree of Masonry.
Brother Weller introduced Brother Blight who was speaker of the
evening. The senior Past Master, Merle J. Rogers, was introduced and
presented a fifty-year button to Past Master Mark E. V. Bogart.
After numerous remarks, all of great interest, lodge was closed on a
most memorable evening.
MASONIC BIBLES
A custom initiated in Bro. Brown's year is still carried on by the
Lodge. Brother Brown presented each candidate raised during his term
with a Masonic Bible. After his year as Master was over he continued
the presentation until the time of this death, giving 250 Bibles in
all, at his own expense.
NEW ELECTRIC ORGAN DEDICATED
After the installation ceremony, Brother Drapeau spoke and then
dedicated a new electric organ to the lodge Temple Association,
given by Mrs. Willett and son Richard in loving memory of departed
brother Kuktar Willett. Several stirring musical numbers were
rendered by Brother Gordon Paulson. Austin Rice, Temple Association
secretary, accepted the organ for the association.
Miss Mary Jo Faust, accompanied by Miss Georgette Floys at the
organ, rendered the benediction by singing the Lord's Prayer.
GRAND MASTER EDWARD H. SIEMS VISITS THE LODGE
An official reception was rendered the Most Worshipful Edward H.
Siems, Grand Master of Masons in California. The chairs were filled
with Masters and Past Masters of the 70th and 71st Masonic
Districts, with Brother Lepper occupying the East. The Grand Master
spoke to a large gathering on "the workings of the Grand Lodge of
Masons in California." Honored guests were the Right Worshipful
Louis C. Drapeau, Junior Grand Warden of the Grand Lodge; the
Worshipful Gus A. Quick, Inspector of the 70th district; and the
Worshipful Ralph Hines, Inspector of the 70th Masonic District.
375 YEARS OF MASONRY HONORED
The outstanding event of the year was held May 16, 1950, when,
preceded by a trout dinner, Lodge was opened on the Master Mason
degree. The Lodge was opened for the purpose of honoring Brother
Edward M. Selby and to listen to an address by the Right Worshipful
Louis C. Drapeau, Senior Grand Warden.
The Worshipful Master directed the Marshal to escort the following
brethren to the East: Brother William B. Ogden, Past Grand Master;
Brother Louis C. Drapeau, Senior Grand Warden; Brother Gustaf A.
Quick, Inspector of Masons in the 71st Masonic District; Brother
Mark E. V. Bogart, Senior Past Master of the Lodge, 54 years a
Mason; Louis A. Durfee, 54 years a Mason; James A. Donaldson, Past
Master of Ninevh Lodge No. 473, Colony, Missouri, 52 years a Mason;
Frank Fourt, Past Master of Clinton Lodge No. 15, Fairfield, Iowa,
59 years a Mason; and Brother Edward M. Selby, honored guest of the
evening. Brother Drapeau presented Brother Selby with a 50 year
button made of pure gold from the hills of California. The honored
brethren present represented 375 years of Masonry.
GRAND MASTER DRAPEAU VISITS THE LODGE
Louis C. Drapeau, Grand Master that year, made his official visit
October 10, 1951. He was accompanied by several of his Grand Lodge
Officers including Thomas Grice, Grand Chaplain; Conley L. Laforce,
Grand Standard Bearer; Ralph C. Hines, Grand Orator; Lyman E.
Hallowell, Sr. Grand Deacon; A. C. Currie, Jr. Grand Deacon; and
Arthur T. Mead, Grand Sword Bearer. This was the Grand Master's
first reception after election to his office.
The cornerstone of the city hall was laid March 24th.
STOCK AGREEMENT REACHED FOR LODGES
In January 1957 Grand Master L. Harold Anderson rendered his
decision concerning the 1939 stock agreement between Lodges 214 and
633.
DUES RAISED
During the April Stated Meeting of this year, the brethren voted to
raise annual dues to $18.00 to meet the expenses of the Lodge. In
this year, San Buenaventura Lodge lost by death, five of its beloved
and active Past Masters: William D. Brewer, Claud J. Graham,
Theodore C. Tychsen, Glenn D.Corey and Thomas C. Wallace. Also a
beloved member, Reverend Howard C. Taylor.
ELEVATOR FUND STARTED
This was the year that the movement to secure an elevator was
started. San Buenaventura and Poinsettia each purchased $2,500 worth
of Temple stock to start it. The Lodge was saddened by the death of
Brother Hugh M. Wood.
NEW INSPECTOR NAMED
Brother Frank E. Stevens, a member of Ojai Lodge No. 663, was
appointed by the Grand Master to be Inspector of this Masonic
district.
LODGE ELEVATOR INSTALLED
The elevator was installed during this year. The Ventura Shrine Club
raised most of the money and all the Masonic bodies were very
grateful.
WORSHIPFUL HALLOWELL AWARDED 50-YEAR BUTTON
At the Stated Meeting of February 5, 1963, Past Master Lyman E.
Hallowell received his 50-year button. The button was presented by
the Most Worshipful Louis C. Drapeau. Brother Hallowell served as
Senior Deacon in 1919, the year Brother Drapeau was Master of No.
214. Brother Hallowell also served as Senior Grand Deacon in 1952,
the year that Brother Drapeau was Grand Master. Besides the 50-year
button presented to Bro. Hallowell, three other veteran members
received 50-year buttons. They were: Bro. Harry L. Howard, Bro.
James Middleton and Bro. Harvey Strobridge.
NEW FLAG PRESENTED TO LODGE
At the stated meeting of January 7, 1964 Past Master Michael Brazil
presented the Lodge with a new American flag, with 50 stars in the
blue field.
GRAND LODGE BY-LAWS ADOPTED
During the Stated Meeting of July 6, 1965, the uniform code of
by-laws as set by the Grand Lodge of California, was read and
adopted by the Lodge.
The portrait of Past Grand Master David John Reese (1925) was
presented to the Lodge by his daughter, Dorothy Drapeau. It was hung
in the hall at the north end.
HOSPITAL CORNER-STONE LAID
On February 12, 1966, the Grand Lodge of California was opened for
the purpose of laying the corner-stone for the new Community
Memorial Hospital. The Most Worshipful Myron E. Smith was present
with several of his Grand officers. Before a large group, the Grand
Master, assisted by his officers, laid the stone according to the
ritual.
WORSHIPFUL BRAZIL RECEIVES 50-YEAR PIN
At this installation, the Worshipful Frank Stevens, Inspector of the
510th Masonic district, presented Past Master Michael L. Brazil with
a 50-year button. Bro. Brazil was a very devoted member of the
lodge. He served as Inspector for several years. He was Master of
San Buenaventura Lodge No. 214 when the Temple was built.
At the stated meeting of February 7, 1967, the Secretary read a
letter from the Grand Lodge to the effect that the Worshipful Jules
J. DeMoor, Past Master of Poinsettia Lodge No. 633, had been
appointed Inspector of the 510th Masonic District.
SAN BUENAVENTURA LODGE NO. 214 AND POINSETTIA LOGE NO. 633
CONSOLIDATE TO BECOME VENTURA POINSETTIA LODGE NO. 214
On October 1, 2001, San Buenaventura Lodge No. 214 and Poinsettia
Lodge No. 633 reunite and consolidate to become Ventura Poinsettia
Lodge No. 214.
VENTURA POINSETTIA LODGE NO. 214 AND OJAI LODGE NO. 663 CONSOLIDATE
TO BECOME VENTURA POINSETTIA OJAI LODGE NO. 214
On May 1, 2003, Ventura Poinsettia Lodge No. 214 and Ojai Lodge No.
663 reunite and consolidate to become Ventura Poinsettia Ojai Lodge
No. 214.
JOTS OF INTEREST
This year the members were saddened by the death of Past Master
Carl. A. Miller. Brother Miller was a leader in the De Molay.
Brother Maynard re-established the annual roll call. This meeting
was held on January 30, 1968. When the roll was called, 113 members
answered "present", 23 of them being Past Masters. Past Master
Ernest Argabrite was the oldest member present, having been raised
in 1917. Bro. Clarence Mattson was the member traveling the greatest
distance to be present, coming from Yreka, California. The youngest
member present was Brother Hugh Sanders.
In 1968, San Buenaventura Lodge suffered its worst year in memory in
the loss of members by death. Besides Past Master Carl Miller,
thirteen members passed away, among these the beloved Past Master
Anson P. Brown.
On April 29, 1969, a special meeting was held to honor Past Master
Lemuel L. Coy and Past Master Jalmar Lawson. The lodge was called to
refreshment and the members assembled with their ladies and friends
to witness the presentation of 50-year buttons to the two Past
Masters. The presentation was made by Worshipful Jules DeMoor. The
two Pat Masters spoke of their Masonic careers. The lodge was
honored by the presence of Worshipful Gustaf A. Quick and Worshipful
Ralph Hine, both Past Inspectors.
On the evening of May 27, 1969, Brother Julian G. Hathaway we
presented with a 50-year button by Inspector Jules DeMoor. Other
50-year buttons presented this year were to Raymond H. White, Carl
Steller, Sidney Stueck, and Louis Schnitzer.
At the stated meeting of March, Brother Coy stated that it was time
to get busy preparing for the Centennial Celebration.
A committee was appointed to prepare a history to be published
commemorating a century of Masonry in Ventura. Committee members
were: Jack Joe, Senior Warden; Lemuel Coy, P.M.; Don Ingalls, P.M.;
George Fitch, P.M.; and William Macomber, P.M.
This year also, a Masonic Workshop was held on Saturday, July 27,
and was well attended by Masons from many Lodges in Ventura County.
There was much discussion as to who was the youngest Master to date.
Research tells us that Past Master Joseph Mayo Argabrite, 1908 is
the youngest by eleven months and then Past Master Alan Roy Riekki.
NOTE
We the members were saddened by the death of Past Master Mike
Brazil, 1929. In 1992 brother Brazil passed away in Santa Paula at
the age of 102, five days after receiving his 75 year pin presented
to him by the Grand Master of California, the Most Worshipful
Stanley M. Cazneaux. Others present at brother Brazil's 75 year pin
presentation were Master Alan R. Riekki, Harry Maynard, P.G.M., Jack
Joe, Jr., P.M., and George Fitch, P.M. Brother Mike will be missed.
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