“A Masonic History of Clotworthy Stephenson – an Antrim Freemason”.

 

Multi-Jurisdictional Index  

1785-1819

Highlights of the Masonic career and fraternal community involvement of brother Clotworthy Stephenson from Belfast Ireland; Philadelphia Pennsylvania; Richmond Virginia; Annapolis Maryland; to Washington District of Columbia. By: Thomas M. Saharsky   Mem. Federal Lodge No. 1 Washington District of Columbia

 

Clotworthy Stephenson:

Clotworthy Stephenson was a carpenter, house joiner and building engineer, from County Antrim Ireland. He was an active Freemason from the 1785 until his death in 1819.  Clotworthy His unusual Christian name suggesting a connection of some sort with the Earls of Massereene of Antrim Castle, descendants of Sir Hugh Clotworthy, High Sheriff of Antrim. (d. 1630).  Nothing is known of his life or training in Ireland before he immigrated in 1785/86 to the United States, where he was to enjoy a flourishing professional and social career.  After a brief stay in Philadelphia, he moved to Richmond, Virginia, in 1787 where he was naturalized, recorded by John Marshall. He moved to the city of Washington in 1792/93.  In both Richmond and Washington he was involved in important public and private architectural projects including the Virginia State Capitol, Governors House, the United States Capitol, White House, Market House, Alexandria Theater and the Marine Barracks at the Navy Yard. Clotworthy Stephenson travels, memberships and professional relationships brought continuity to a multijurisdictional masonic community in Washington D.C.. Most notably he was the Grand Marshall of the United States Capitol Cornerstone Ceremony. A Mural of the events of September 18, 1793 can be found artistically represented on the chamber walls of The George Washington Masonic National Memorial.  Stephenson was a warden at Christ Church in Washington. Stephenson was a member of the Union Fire Company and was active in the formation of the Washington Corporation. He became president of the Washington Building Society, and in 1816 was appointed to the post of Inspector and Measurer of the Lumber.  He work with James Hoban, Benjamin Henry Latrobe, Edmund Randolph, Samuel Dobie, William Hay, Daniel Carroll, Thomas Johnson, David Stuart, John Hart, William Thornton, Colin Williamson, Stephen Hallet, Thomas Jefferson, George Hadfield, Joseph Clark and many of the artisans and craftsman who devoted their careers to building Washington.   He died on 27 November 1819 and was buried with Masonic honors in the Presbyterian graveyard in Georgetown.  He was survived by Catherine (Stephenson) Triplett and his son. Catherine was the daughter of Captain Thomas Triplett a member of a prominent Virginia family and personal friend of George Washington.

Masonic Career

  • Raised in Temple of Fame Lodge No. 491 Belfast, Ireland (1785)
  • Application for membership, Philadelphia No. 3, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (May 1786)
  • Attended meeting and unanimously approved for membership, Philadelphia No. 3, (Now Solomon’s Lodge No. 3) (June 1786); Member between the years (1786-1787)
  • Served as Junior Deacon, Philadelphia No. 3, (October 1786 )
  • Senior Deacon pro tempore, Philadelphia No.3 (November 1786 & Variety of other dates),
  • Last documented attending at Philadelphia Lodge No. 3 (January 1787),
  • Regular visitor of Richmond Lodge No. 10, Richmond, Virginia (March 1787- April 1792)
  • Served as Senior Deacon pro tempore, Richmond Lodge No. 10 (May 1787)
  • Served as…Richmond Randolph No. 19 (1787-1792)
  • Member of Richmond Randolph Lodge No. 19 (1792-1793)
  • Junior Warden pro tempore during the First Meeting Richmond Randolph No. 19, Richmond, Virginia (October 1787)
  • Granted Dispensation as Junior Warden of the assembly that became Amanda Lodge No. 12, Annapolis, Maryland (Now Annapolis Lodge No. 89)(April 1793)
  • Petitioner of Federal Lodge No. 15 Maryland, Washington D.C., (Now Federal Lodge No. 1) (September 1793)
  • Paid and received the Warrant of Constitution of Federal Lodge No. 15 (September 1793)
  • Charter Member of Federal Lodge No. 15 Jurisdiction of Maryland, (Now No. 1 Jurisdiction of the District of Columbia)(September 1793)
  • Served as Senior Warden of Federal Lodge No. 15 (September 1793)
  • Grand Marshal pro tempore of Maryland during Cornerstone of the United States Capitol (September 1793)
  • Represented Federal Lodge No. 15 at Grand Lodge of Maryland bi-annual session ; Grand Marshal (May 1794)
  • Proposed, implemented and executed a Circular for a General Convention of Grand Lodges to coincide Centennial Congress (3) (May 1794) Philadelphia
  • Senior Grand Warden pro tempore of the Grand Lodge of Maryland (December 1794) (Signer of the Grand Constitutions of Maryland)
  • Worshipful Master of Federal Lodge No. 15 (1794)
  • Grand Marshal of the Grand Lodge of Maryland (1795)
  • Worshipful Master Federal Lodge No. 15 (1795)
  • Presented a written recommendation for residents of George-Town to form a Lodge (Columbia No. 19) on behalf of Federal Lodge No. 15 (October 1795)
  • Founding member of the Royal Arch Encampment, Washington City (December 1795-1799)
  • High Priest Royal Encampment, (1795)
  • Represented Federal Lodge No. 15 at Grand Lodge of Maryland annual session and elected again to the office of Grand Marshall (1796)
  • Represented Federal Lodge No. 15 during an extra communication of Grand Lodge of Maryland (May 1797)
  • Dispute for “nonpayment for raft rental” David Geddes vs. Clotworthy Stephenson, Resolved in Grand Lodge of Maryland Meeting (November 1797)
  • Worshipful Master of Federal Lodge (1798)
  • Stephenson was made an Honorary Member of Federal Lodge (1806)
  • Member Royal Arch Union Chapter, Washington District of Columbia (1809)
  • Dispute between Clotworthy Stephenson vs George Moore, Committee formed to investigate, Federal Lodge No. 1 (December 1811)
  • Buried with Masonic Honors Old Presbyterian Grave Yard, Masonic Procession lead from F Street Home to the Grave Yard Georgetown lead by Federal Lodge No. 1, November 27, 1819

 

Belfast Lodge No. 491

(Temple of Fame Lodge, Ireland)

 

March 5th A.L. 5785; A.D.1785

Raised as a member of Belfast Lodge No. 491. Ireland[1]

Belfast Lodge No. 491 “ The members of No. 491 , Assemble one a Month, in Hercules Lane; upwards of forty Members”. [2]

 

Richmond Solomon Lodge No. 3

(Formally Royal Arch No. 3; Philadelphia Lodge No. 3)

 

May 16 A.L. 5786; A.D. 1786[3]

Stated Lodge night May 16, 1786.  Stephenson is not listed under visitors but his name is referenced in the lodge minutes. The passage states “Brothers William Hayley and Clotworthy Stephenson applied to become members of this Lodge.. A motion was made and agreed to, that Brothers Few be authorized to procure for the Lodge a new floor cloth painted in masonic..” During this meeting the lodge unanimously approved that the aprons were to be “uniform, white, and plain”.  The lodge was closed in harmony at 9 o’clock.

June 20th A.L. 5786; A.D. 1786

Stated Lodge Night June 20th, 1786; Stephenson was listed with the membership. “Brother William Haley and Clotworthy Stephenson, who petitioned this Lodge to become members thereof last stated night, was balloted for and unanimously approved of.” This being the stated lodge night  proceeding St. Johns Day the lodge  provided to the choice of officers, where the following Brethren were elected officers for this evening 6 months viz. Brother Few Master, Kidd Senior Warden, Williams Junior Warden and Whitehead Treasure and appointed Steward. Brothers Christie & Stephenson paid their admittance fee to the treasure 20 ? each. Lodge closed in good harmony 11 o’clock.

July 18th A.L. 5786; A.D. 1786

Stated Lodge night July 18th 1786; Stephenson was listed with the membership.  An entered apprenticed Lodge opened in due form. A letter was handed from the Deputy Grand Secretary soliciting the lodge to permit the Grand Lodge to meet in their room, they being obligated to have the room formally occupied by them. The lodge unanimously agreed upon, that this requisition be granted..” Lodge closed in good harmony 1 o’clock.

August 15th A.L. 5786; A.D. 1786

Stated Lodge night August 15th 1786; Stephenson was listed with the membership. A fellow craft lodge was opened with usual ceremonies. Committee was formed to “agree with the Grand Lodge terms for the use of this lodge room continued. This lodge was closed and an entered apprentice lodge was opened. The treasurer received petition fees. Lodge was closed in good Harmony ½ past nine o’clock.

September 19th A.L. 5786; A.D. 1786

Stated Lodge Philadelphia September 19, 1786; Stephenson was listed with the membership.  An entered apprentice lodge was opened with the usual ceremonies. Committee from 18th July regarding Grand Lodge use of the room continued. This lodge closed and a fellow craft opened in due form wherein a brother was passed to the degree of fellow craft returned and gave thanks. This lodge was closed and an entered apprentice was opened. A visiting brother was found “conducting himself highly unbecoming of a brother Mason” and the privilege of visiting the lodge was rescinded. Lodge was closed in good harmony ½ passed nine o’clock.

October 17th A.L. 5786 ; A.D. 1786

Stated Lodge Night October 17th, 1786; Stephenson is listed as Junior Deacon. A fellowcraft lodge was opened with the usual ceremonies. “The Worshipful Master informed the lodge that at the last quarterly communication the craft in Pennsylvania had formed themselves into an independent G.L. (Grand Lodge) and had ordered new warrants to be made out agreeable thereto for the several Lodges under their jurisdiction, where upon it was ordered, that our former warrant be given up and that a new warrant (Warrant of Constitution) be procured from the Grand Lodge, on the principles therein mentioned.” The Lodge proceeded to settle accounts with the Grand Lodge for the continued use of the lodge room. The lodge closed in good harmony 10 o’clock. This lodge meeting resulted in the “old” warrant of constitution “adjoined sine die” or “without assigning a day for a further meeting or hearing” and was relinquished at some point to the Grand Lodge.

October 18th A.L. 5786; A.D. 1786

Adjoining Lodge October 18th, 1786; Stephenson is not listed as attending this “adjoining Lodge”. This adjoining lodge is a continued session of the previously opened lodge dated October 17th, 1786.  The October 18th 1786 meeting was more than likely convened under the new warrant issued by the Independent Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.  An entered apprentice lodge was opened in due form. A brother was initiated. The lodge was closed and a Master Masons lodge was opened with the usual ceremonies. A brother was raised to the sublime degree of master mason. Returned and gave thanks. Lodge was closed in good Harmony ½ passed 12 o’clock a.m.

November 21th A.L. 5786; A.D. 1786

Stated Lodge night November 21st, 1786; Clotworthy Stephenson is listed as Senior Deacon pro tempore. An enter apprentice lodge was opened in due form.  Committee and treasurer reported. An initiation took place into the mysteries of Masonry. Lodge closed in good harmony 9 o’clock.

December 8th A.L. 5786; A.D. 1786

Extra Lodge December 8th, 1789; Clotworthy Stephenson is listed as the Senior Deacon. A fellow crafts lodge opened in due form. A brother was passes to the degree of fellow craft returned and gave thanks. Lodge was closed in good harmony 8 o’clock.

December 15th A.L. 5786; A.D. 1786

Extra Lodge Philadelphia December 15th 1786; Clotworthy Stephenson is listed as Senior Deacon. A master masons lodge was opened in due form. A brother was raised to the sublime degree of master masons. Returned and gave thanks. Lodge closed in good harmony 8 o’clock.

 

December 19th A.L. 5786; A.D. 1786

Stated Lodge night December 19, 1786; Stevenson (aka Stephenson) listed as Senior Deacon. An enter apprentice lodge was opened in due form. Accounts of the lodge settled with the Grand. “ This being the evening  proceeding St. Johns Day  the lodge proceeded to the choice  of officers, when brother Kidd was elected Master, Brother Williams Senior Warden, Brother Mendge Junior Warden, and Brother Whitehead Treasure . Moved and seconded that a committee be appointed to confer with the Royal Arch for the payment of rent for the use of the room, upon which Brother s Delany & Williams were appointed for that purpose.   Two people’s certificates and names were provided to the Grand Lodge in order to discontinued membership by virtue of the by-laws. Lodge was closed in good harmony 8 ½ o’clock.

December 27th A.L. 5786; A.D. 1786

St. Johns Day December 27, 1786; Stevenson (aka Stephenson) listed as Junior Deacon. A master masons lodge was opened in due form. “Agreeable to the order of the last stated night, Brother Kidd wanted to be installed Master but on account of the shortness of time it was postponed until Friday evening. “Lodge closed at 10 o’clock a.m.

December 29th A.L. 5786; A.D.1786

Friday Evening December 29th 1786; Stevenson (aka Stephenson) listed as Senior Deacon. A masters lodge opened in due form. Officers were installed according to the elected results of the December 19th meeting. Brothers congratulated the Master on his appointment to the chair.  This lodge was closed in good harmony at ¼ past 7 o’clock.

January 16th A.L.; A.D. 1787

 

Stated Lodge night January 16th, 1787; Stephenson was listed with the membership. An entered apprentice lodge was opened in due form. The Committee appointed to settle the term on which the Royal Arch meeting in the room are continued. A committee reported that the lodge accounts were settled with the Grand Lodge up to the years 1785. A certificate was granted for a travel brother. “Brother Few applied for a recommendation to the R.W. Grand Master from this lodge to pass Brother Willis to the chair. Ordered that the same be granted him by an unanimous ballet of the lodge.”  Lodge was close in good harmony at 9 o’clock.

Richmond Lodge No. 10

(Formally Richmond Lodge No. 13)

Minutes Transcribed

Lodge No. 10 masonic legacy and commitment to the community of Richmond are unparalleled. Clotworthy Stephenson and other builders of the Capitol of Virginia frequented many the meeting of Richmond Lodge No. 10. Members John Marshall, Edmund Randolph and other members help to plan and shape civil government as well as the configuration of public builds.

May 8th A.L. 5787; A.D. 1787[4]

At a Stated Lodge held in the Richmond Lodge Room on Tuesday evening May the 8th A.L. 5787 A.D. 1787 Listed Under V.B or Visiting Brethren is Clotworthy Stephenson  No. 3 Phil. +  W. for William Moore No.? Phil.

May 23 A.L.5787; A.D. 1787

At a Called Lodge held in the Richmond Lodge Room on Wednesday Evening May 23 A.L 5787 A.D. 1787. Clotworthy Stephenson listed as Senior Deacon Pro Tempore for Richmond Lodge No. 10. Lodge was convened for the initiating of a member into the Mysteries of Masonry.

June 12th A.L. 5787; A.D. 1787

At a Stated Lodge held on the Lodges Room in Richmond on Tuesday June the 12th A.L. 5787 A.D. 1787.Lodge assembled for the purposed of balloting and electing officers. Clotworthy Stephenson Phil. No. 03 Listed under the heading “Visitors subheading Brothers”

September 15th A.L. 5789; A.D. 1789

A Called Lodge held in the Richmond Lodge Room on Monday 15th of September A.L. 5789 A.D. 1789….Lodge was opened in due form in the first degree. Clotworthy Stephenson is listed as “Visiting”

April 29th A.L. 5790; A.D. 1790

A Called Lodge Held in the Richmond Lodge Room on Tuesday 29th April A.L. 5790 A.D. 1790 The G.M. is in attendance as well as the W.M. of Richmond Randolph No. 19. The lodge meeting purpose to raise a member to the sublime degree of Master Mason. Listed under Visitor Stephenson name appears.

June 8th A.L. 5790; A.D. 1790

At A Lodge in course, Held in the Richmond Lodge Room No. 10 on Tuesday 8th June A.L. 5790 A.D. 1790. Lodge was assemble for the purposed of Balloting and election of officers ensuing year. Stephenson is listed as a “Visitor”.

October 29th A.L. 5791; A.D. 1791

At a Called meeting of the Richmond Lodge No. 10 at the Masons Hall on Saturday evening the 29th October Anno Lacis 5791 A.D. 1791. Right Worshipful J.K. Reed DGM is in attendance. There is no indication of Visitors section in the minutes book but Stephenson name is present.

March 6th A.L. 5792; A.D. 1792

At a Called meeting in the Richmond Lodge room No. 10 on Tuesday  evening the 6th of  March Anne Lucis 5792 Anne Domini 1792. RW J.K. Reed DGM. Clotworthy Stephenson is listed under ”Visitors”.

April 3rd A.L. 5792; A.D. 1792

At a Called meeting of the Richmond Lodge No. 10 on Tuesday evening  the third day  of April Anno Lucis 5792 Anno Domini 1792. Under the heading “Visiting” Stephenson names is listed.

April 25th A.L. 5792; A.D. 1792

At a meeting held at the Richmond Lodge room No. 10 on Tuesday evening April 26th Anno Lucis 5792 Anno Domini 1792. J.K Reed DGM in attendance. Stephenson is found under the heading of “Visitors”.

 

Richmond Randolph Lodge No. 19

Grand Lodge Index Card for Clotworthy Stephenson states he is a Charter Member.

Richmond Randolph Lodge no. 19 from the beginning was established through the leadership of past masters. Many of which became Grand offices of the first few decades. The lodge significantly grew along with their influence. John K Read stands out as a member who commitment to the standardization, codification and publication helped to establish consistency in Virginia Masonry.  Richmond Randolph No. 19 is a lodge that took great care of Masons Hall and has remained the keeper this important historical edifice. This lodge remains one of the most well establishes examples of Virginia Masonry.

 

December 1st, A.L. 5787; A.D. 1787[5]

At a Lodge held at Masons Hall for the purposes of installing the principle officers of Richmond Randolph lodge No. 19. The installing lodge of masters consisted of John MC Call current Master of Richmond Lodge No 10, Past Master Clotworthy Stephenson as Senior Warden, and Past Master George Nicoll as Junior Warden.

After the installation of the Master William Waddill and the Senior Warden David Lambert there was Clotworthy Stephenson was installed as the Junior Warden Pro Tempore of Richmond Randolph No. 19 due to the absence of John Dixon there after closing the Masters Lodge and opening  an enter Apprentice Lodge . The lodge was then closed and adjourned till Thursday next or during the Masters pleasure.

 

December 24th A.L. 5787; A.D. 1787

At an Occasional Meeting of the Lodge, Monday 24 December A.L. 5787; A.D. 1787; Stephenson is listed as a visitor from No. 3 Philadelphia. A recommendation was made for William Drinkard who was a transit person found worthy for membership. He was accepted and initiated in due form. The business of the Lodge being ended, it was adjourned to the Lodge in cause or during the Master pleasure.

June 23h A.L. 5788; A.D. 1788

At an Occasional Meeting of the Lodge, Saturday 23 June A.L. 5788; A.D. 1788; Stephenson is listed as a visitor. Meeting for the purposes of installing Jacob Ege as Senior Warden, John Dixon elected Junior Warden and his installation was deferred until next meeting. The business of the Lodge being ended, it was adjourned to the Lodge in cause or during the Master pleasure.

August 22 A.L. 5788; A.D. 1788

At a Lodge of Past Masters at Masons Hall City of Richmond, Friday 22nd of August A.L. 5788, A.D. 1788; Clotworthy Stephenson is listed a Past Master and Junior Warden.  William Waddill listed a Master of Richmond Randolph Lodge No. 19, Alexander Montgomery Listed as Past Master as Senior Warden. Brother William Lambert member of Richmond Randolph Lodge No. was advanced in Masonry was received regularly installed and admitted to the sublime degree of Master in the Chair. Charles Steward was likewise admitted and advanced to the chair. The Lodge was then closed in due form.

June 5th A.L. 1789; A.D. 1789

At an Occasional Meeting of the Lodge, Saturday 23 June A.L. 5788; A.D. 1788; Stephenson is listed as a visitor. The lodge was conveyed for the purposes of Initiating David Gaddy, Into the Mysteries of Masonry as an entered Apprentice signed the bylaws, and became a member of the lodge. No further business appearing before the lodge it was closed in due form.

September 2nd A.L. 5789; A.D. 1789

At a Stated Meeting of the Lodge at Masons Hall, Wednesday 2nd September A.L. 5789, A.D. 1789; Clotworthy Stephenson is listed as the Secretary pro tempore. Francis Ratcliff and Samuel Bell, William Timberlake, and Simon Shultz were accepted at the last stated meeting were initiated accordingly and signed the bye laws. The charter and the bylaws of the lodge were read to the new brethren the lodge was closed in due form until the next stated lodge or during the Masters pleasure. Signed Clotworthy Stephenson Sec. P.T.  and William Waddill Master

 

September 7th A.L. 5789; A.D. 1789[6]

At a Stated Meeting of the Lodge at Masons Hall, Wednesday 7th September A.L. 5789, A.D. 1789; Clotworthy Stephenson is listed as the Secretary Pro Tempore. Richard Whelin was balloted for unanimously accepted and initiated into the Mysteries of Masonry in due form. Simon Schulting was balloted and rejected. Charles Wright recommended by the Worshipful Master and John Crawford for membership, was balloted for and initiated in due form. Resolved that  the Senior Warden, Treasure, Tankard, Crawford be deputed to represent this lodge in a Grand Lodge to be held on the 28 Inst. Ephraim Wayne and Alexander Kays were both found worthy and initiated into the Mysteries of Masonry. No further business appearing before the Lodge it was closed in due form.  Signed Clotworthy Stephenson Sec. P.T.  and William Waddill Master

 

December 2nd A.L.5789; A.D. 1789

At a Stated Meeting of the Lodge at Masons Hall, Wednesday 2nd December A.L. 5789, A.D. 1789; Clotworthy Stephenson is listed as visitor. Brother William Waddill Master of this lodge has removed from this city and finding it inconvenient for him to attend lodge, has requested the Brethren to accept his resignation. The lodge then proceeded to choose a new master to act until St John the Baptist. Brother Crawford and Moody recommended Jacob Ege as Master and were unanimously accepted. Right Worshipful master and Crawford recommended Moody as Senior Warden which was accepted as well. Richard T. Banks and William Tensley were found worthy to be initiated into the mysteries of Masonry.  No further business appearing before the Lodge was closed in due form.

June 19th A.L. 5790; A.D.1790

At an Occasional Meeting of the Lodge, Friday 19 June A.L. 5790; A.D. 1790; Stephenson is listed as a visitor. The lodge opened in the second degree of masonry. Brother Reubin George who has regularly served as an entered Apprentice was passed to the degree of Fellow Craft. No further business appearing before the lodge it was closed in due form.

Additionally (Possibly an entry after the fact): A entered Apprentice lodge was open and brothers Banks, Key, and Buckner Coutts join the lodge. William Southhall was balloted for at the proceeding lodge accepted and admitted in due form. The Senior Warden made a motion that was seconded, to admit Brother Thomas Warren who formally discharged his dues from Richmond Lodge No. 10. After consideration he was made a member of Richmond Randolph Lodge No. 19. No further business appearing before the Lodge it was closed in due form.

 

July 7th A.L. 5790; A.D.1790

At a Stated Meeting of the lodge at Masons Hall, Wednesday 7th July A.L. 5790, A.D. 1790; Clotworthy Stephenson is listed as visitor. Henry Banks, Basil Woods, James Gaddy Junior, James Dove were found worthy to be initiated into the Mysteries of Masonry. Resolution to form a committee is appointed to revise bylaws. The principle officers, Treasurer and Secretary formed the committee to report in due course. No further business appearing before the Lodge it was closed in due form.

September 1st A.L. 5790; A.D. 1790

At a Stated Meeting of the lodge at Masons Hall, Wednesday 1st September A.L. 5790, A.D. 1790; Clotworthy Stephenson is listed as visitor. William Cook, Richard Noel were recommended and accepted, initiated in due form and signed the bylaws. Brother Read and Gaddy recommended William Chamberlin as worthy to be initiated into the Mysteries of Masonry. Worshipful laid before the Lodge the proceeding of the Grand Lodge of Virginia at their last communication which were read and recorded by the Secretary. A complete transcript June 10th Meeting of the Grand Lodged of Virginia meeting in the form of a Circular is entered into the Lodge minute book.  No other business appearing before the Lodge it was closed in due form.

April 28the A.L. 5791; A.D. 1791

At a Called meeting of the Lodge at Mason Hall, Tuesday 28 April 1791at 3 o’clock p.m.; Stevenson (Stephenson) is listed as a visitor. The Lodge was opened in the first degree of masonry in order to attend the funeral of John Dixon late Senior Warden accordingly proceeded in due procession to the church there entered the remains of our said brother agreeable to the ancient usage when they returned the lodge was closed in due form and Harmony until the lodge in course or during the Masters will and pleasure.

March 7th A.L. 5792; A.D. 1792

At a Stated Meeting of the Lodge at Masons Hall, Wednesday 7st March A.L. 5792, A.D. 1792; Clotworthy Stephenson is not listed. Alexander Campbell was initiated in the first degree of Masonry and signed the bylaws. Nicholas Sayme, Samuel Richardson, Andrew Mitchel were balloted for an admitted. F. Taylor recommended at the last meeting and balloted of, under the 5th Section of the Bylaws. [7]   Brother Read and Crawford recommended John H Baiggs as worthy to become a member of this Lodge; he was accepted and signed the bylaws. Brother Read seconded by Brother Crawford recommended Brother Clotworthy Stephenson as worthy to become a Member of this Lodge he was therefore balloted for accepted and signed the bylaws. Peterfield Trent, Dudley Woodword, Edward Sydner, Samuel Shepard, William Williams, were found as worth to be initiated into the Mysteries of Masonry. William Duncan and William Allen who had balloted; accepted were initiated in the first degree of Masonry, and signed the bylaws. Brother Lambert Late Treasure was thanked for his faithful discharge of duties and diligence.  Bro Lambert, John Steward, and Henry Banks were made into a committee to confer with our Sister Lodge No. 10 to resolved debt owed to no. 19. Correspondence ensued.  No further Business to appearing before the Lodge it was closed in due form.

 

April 4th A.L. 5792; A.D.1792

At a Stated Meeting of the Lodge at Masons Hall, Wednesday 4th April A.L. 5792, A.D. 1792; Stevenson (Stephenson) is listed as a member. Peterfield Trent and Willian Williams was balloted and rejected. Dudley Woodword and Edward Sydner, were balloted and accepted.  Samuel Sheppard and Robert M Bransford balloted for and came under Section 5 of the bylaws. Brother Samuel Mc Craw was balloted for and accepted took his seat this evening and signed the bylaws. William Taff was found as worth to be initiated into the Mysteries of Masonry. Brothers Peter Tinsley and Brother William Heyden begged leave to with draw their names as members of this Lodge which is granted and will be confirmed at the next stated meeting. No further business appearing before the Lodge it was closed in due form.

April 6th A.L. 5792; A.D.1792

At a Called meeting of the lodge at Mason Hall, Friday 6th April A.L. 5792, A.D.1792; Stevenson (Stephenson) is listed as a member. Samuel Shepard, Robert Brandsford were initiated into masonry after the dissenting brother rejection was withdrawn due to being misinformed. Dudley Woodword was also initiated into masonry after the two dissenting brother rejection were put in writing and to be found without grounds. The letter was recorded in the minute book. No further business appearing before the Lodge it was closed in due form.

 

April 23h A.L. 5792; A.D.1792

At a Called meeting of the Lodge at Mason Hall, Monday Evening 23rd April A.L. 5792, A.D.1792; Stephenson is listed as a member. Samuel Shepard, Dudley Woodword, John Seabrooke, who had be Entered Apprentices and passed Fellow Crafts was this evening Raised to the sublime degree of Master Masons, No further business appearing  before the Lodge t’was closed in due form and harmony.

May 2nd A.L. 5792; A.D.1792

At a Stated Meeting of the Lodge at Masons Hall, Wednesday 2nd May A.L. 5792, A.D. 1792; C. Stephenson is listed as a member.  John K Read Deputy Grand Master is in attendance. David Lambert was found worthy to be a member of this Lodge was balloted for and accepted. Samuel Swann, Edmund B. Lacy, General James Wood was a person found worthy to be initiated into the Mysteries of Masonry. Brother Samuel Bell seconded by Brother Rose recommended Samuel Washburn as a clandestine mason to be reasonably initiated into the Mysteries of Masonry; he was balloted for, initiated into the Mysteries of Masonry. Lodge purchased 15 tickets in the Scottsville Lottery. Committees were formed to review the Treasures accounts, report on the success of the lottery tickets, and revise the bylaws. No further business to appear before the Lodge t’was closed in due form and harmony until the Lodge of course or during W. Master will and pleasure.

June 6th A.L. 5792, A.D. 1792

At a Stated Meeting of the Lodge at Masons Hall, Wednesday evening 6th June A.L. 5792, A.D. 1792; C. Stephenson is listed as a member. John K Read Deputy Grand Master is in attendance. Samuel Swann, Edmund B. Lacy recommended at the last state meeting was balloted and found accepted. John Carter withdrew his application for membership without being balloted upon. Brother Read requested that General James Woods continued at a future period to be balloted for. Brother Galt and the Senior Warden recommended Elderidge Harris, John Greenhow, Charles Grymes, and Thomas Pointer as persons worthy to initiate into the Mysteries of Masonry. Brother William Fatham was recommended for membership and was rejected. Bro Steward presented a letter of appeal to the rejection of membership William Fatham to be presented at the next grand communication.  Brother George Root was recommended balloted upon and came in under the 5th section of the bylaws. This evening being the Annual Stated Meeting for the Election of Officers the Lodge proceeded to ballot. The Majority were in favor of the following brethren; Jacob Ege re-elected Master, John Crawford re-elected Senior Warden, William Southhall re-elected Junior Warden, Richard Wheelin elected Treasure, William Galt elected Secretary,  Dudley Woodword elected Senior Deacon , David Isaacs elected Junior Deacon, John Kautzman re-election Tyler. No further business appearing before the Lodge it was closed in due form and harmony.

June 8th A.L.5792; A.D. 1792

At a Called meeting of the Lodge at Mason Hall, 8th June A.L. 5792, A.D.1792; Stevenson (Stephenson) is listed as a member. Brother Roots who was balloted for and came under the 5th Section of the bylaws was admitted as a member and signed the bylaws. The Master having informed the Lodge that no reason had been given him why he should not be admitted as such. Mayes M Cohen was found worthy balloted and accepted.  Samuel Swann and Edmund Lacy were initiated into the first degree of Masonry in due form and signed the bylaws. No further business appearing before the Lodge the same was closed in due form.

June 13th A.L.5792; A.D. 1792

At a called meeting of the lodge at Mason Hall, Wednesday evening 13th June A.L. 5792, A.D.1792; Stephenson is listed as a member. John K Read Deputy Grand Master is in attendance. Brother Robert Bransford and Edmund Lacy who has served their time as entered apprentices were this evening passed to the degree of Fellow Craft. A correspondence from a committee from lodge No. 10 waited on the lodge No. 19. Lodge No. 10 requesting assistance in adopting a mode for celebrating the approaching Feast of St Johns the Baptist. A committee for No. 19 was ordered to confer with Sister Lodge No. 10 to make preparation most advisable and suitable to the occasion. No further business appearing before the Lodge t’was closed in due form and harmony.

July 4th A.L. 5792; A.D. 1792

At a Stated Meeting of the Lodge at Masons Hall, Wednesday 4th July A.L. 5792, A.D. 1792; Stephenson is not list but found in the transactions. John K Read Deputy Grand Master is in attendance. Elderidge Harris, John Greenhow, Charles Grymes were found worthy to be a member of this lodge was balloted for and accepted. Thomas Pointer balloted for and came under Section 5 of the bylaws. The Worshipful Master presented a letter from Samuel Moody praying to be discontinued as a member of this lodge. It was resolved that he was able to withdraw. George Graham, P.S. Randolph, M. Francis and Samuel Pleasants were found worthy to initiate into the Mysteries of Masonry. Ordered that Brother Crawford, William Southhall, Wood, Morris, Gal and Stephenson be a standing Committee for the examination of those brothers who wish a degree in Masonry. Additional standing committees were form for the bylaws, accounts. M.M. Cohen was balloted and accepted claiming his privilege as such and signed the bylaws. On a motion of Brother Banks seconded by Brother Read that brother William Southhall are appointed to state to the next Lodge the Expense of Finishing the lower room of this house (Masons Hall). Brother Bell reported on the Books of Accounts.  No further business before the Lodge it was closed in due form and harmony.

 

September 3rd A.L. 5792; A.D. 1792

At a Called meeting of Masters of Richmond Randolph Lodge No. 19 at the Lodge at Mason Hall, Monday 3rd September A.L. 5792, A.D.1792; Stephenson is listed as a member. The purpose of the meeting was to take under consideration a change exhibited by Brother Crawford against Brother Thomas Morris. The lodge resolved to provide a copy of the change against him by Brother Crawford and that a committee was made to make a special report of their proceeding and that his resignation cannot be accepted while he is tainted with unmasonic behavior. It was ordered that a number of the brethren were to carry the foregoing resolution into effect. No further business appearing before the Lodge it was closed in due form.

February 18th A.L. 5793; A.D.1793

At a Called meeting of the Lodge at Mason Hall, Monday 18th February A.L. 5793, A.D.1793; Stephenson is listed as a member. Lawrence  Sully and Benjamin Wolfe who was balloted for a the last meeting and came under the 5th Article of the bylaws and against who no sufficient reasons were given for excluding them this evening, was initiated as Entered Apprentice  and signed the bylaws. Brother Nathaniel L . Savage as worthy to become a member of this lodge, he was agreeable to our bylaws, balloted for and Accepted signed the bylaws. No further business appearing before the Lodge it was closed in form.

March 6th A.L. 5793; A.D. 1793

At a Stated Meeting of the Lodge at Masons Hall, Wednesday 6th March A.L. 5793, A.D. 1793; C. Stephenson is not list but found in the transactions. William Inbay who was balloted for at the last meeting and was accepted.  The Worshipful Master presented to the lodge a letter from Brother James Henderson Grand Secretary inclosing the proceedings of the last annual communication from January 21, 1793 of the Grand Lodge of Virginia which was read and ordered to be recorded. The detailed account and recordation is transcribed in full.  The Master then laid before the lodge a letter from Brother Stephenson praying to be discontinued as member of this lodge which was granted. Motion of complaint was then carried by the lodge pursuant to the procrastinated by the Grand Secretary’s reception of the Grand Lodge Circular and communication.  It was resolved that a formal complaint was too made at the next quarterly communication. Isaac Mordecai was found as worthy to be initiated into the Mysteries of Masonry. Some brethren paid their fees to the lodge. No further business appearing before the Lodge it was closed in due form.

Amanda Lodge No. 12

(Now Annapolis Lodge No. 89)

 

Thursday April 11, 1793 [8]

 

Maryland, Easton, in Talbot county:

The Following Ordered To Be Recorded

VIZ.

 

A DISPENSATION Granted.

TO ALL WHOM IT MAY CONCERN.

 

WHEREAS I do repose especial confidence in the integrity and well known attachment of Joseph Clark, David Geddes and C. Worthy Stephenson, to the sublime principles of the ancient craft, and well knowing their distance from any organized body, and their great desire to form themselves into a regular society, and pursue the good old usages of the craft, in all ages and nations, I have thought it proper to issue this my dispensation, to the aforementioned Joseph Clark, authorizing and appointing him to act as master; to David Geddes as senior warden, and C. Worthy Stephenson, as junior warden, giving them full power to enter , pass and raise, as freemasons, such as may apply, and they deem worthy to be acquainted with our sacred mysteries; for which proceedings this dispensation shall be their sufficient warrant, which is to continue in full force and virtue, until the  third Tuesday in April next, when it is to be presented to the grand communication to be held at Easton, in Talbot county. Given under my hand and seal this 20th day of December, A.M. 5792, A.D. 1792. PERE. LETHRBURY, G.M.M.N.B. The Above dispensation is for the city of Annapolis (by April 13, 1793 Amanda Lodge No.12 Joseph Clark W.M.). p. 68-72

 

Federal  Lodge No. 15

(Now Federal Lodge No. 1)

 

September 6th A.L. 5793; A.D. 1793[9]

Petition for Federal Lodge No. 15

Your petitioners   further    beg  leave to  observe  that  they have attended herewith   letter  of  recommendation  from  your  Junior Grand  Warden,  to whom we are all personally   known,  with these documents,  and a consciousness of  their   good wishes  and intention  to work  for  the good of the  Craft,  and there  being  as yet no opportunity  in  the  city of Washington,  they  therefore   do hope that  your  sublime  body will grant  the  prayer  of our petition,  and they  as in duty  bound  will revere  and acknowledge.

Done  in the  city  of  Washington,  this   6th day of  September,

A.L. 5793, A.  D.  1793.

 

 

JAMES  HOBAN,

  1. WORTHY STEPHENSON,

ANDREW   EASTAVE

September 12th A.L. 5793; A.D. 1793

A Warrant was granted accordingly.

Ordered,  That  the  Grand  Secretary   do  sign  the  names of  the Deputy  Grand Master  and Grand  Senior  Warden  in their  absence to  a  Warrant   granted    to  Lodge,  No.  15, in the city of Washington.

 

Bro.  C. Worthy  Stephenson   paid  into  the hands  of the Grand Secretary  the sum of £5; for  the Warrant,   and  30p. To the Grand Secretary,  his perquisite   for drawing  the  Warrant.

 

September 15th A.L. 5793; A.D. 1793[10]

In an upper room of a small dwelling of one of the members on New Jersey Avenue Southwest. The location of this dwelling was south of the Capitol grounds on the site of the present House office Building. The room was prepared especially for the Lodge purposes and was used as one of the meeting places of Federal Lodge until 1796. The officers and members who participated in the meeting on Sunday September 15th, 1793 were as follows: Worshipful Master, James Hoban (Architect and Builder of the Presidents House and superintendent of the Treasury, state and many other buildings and architect in charge of the capitol); Senior Warden: Cloth Worthy Stephenson (Clerk of the Work at the Capitol); Junior Warden Andrew Eastave (section Foreman at the Capitol); Secretary, James Dougherty (foreman at the Capitol); Senior Deacon William Coghlan (workman at the Capitol); Junior Deacon Bernard Cook (workman at the capitol); Stewards David Cummings and Redmond Purcell (Foreman of Carpenters at the Capitol for four years; Treasure Collen Williamson (master stone mason Capitol)”

September  18th A.L. 5793; A.D. 1793[11]

Grand Marshall Pro. Tempo for the Grand Lodge of Maryland Conducting the Procession to Laying the Cornerstone of the United States Capitol Accompanied by the Local Lodge and Honorable Member. George Washington in Attendance.

Recollection of the Events of the Day as Follows

Wednesday September 18, 1793– Federal Lodge formed near the capitol in forma masonic attire marched along Pennsylvania Avenue what is now considered Lafayette Square and awaited the presidential escort Brother Clotworthy Stephens was appointed Grand Marshal of the Days event,.  The president was met as he was local members of Potomac when they first arrived to meet the commissioners and the survey where the federal city was to reside.  Our Brethren of the Georgetown-Federal City groups were again honored in procession including George Washington, who was received by the Master of Potomac Lodge, the  John Clark Grand Master Pro tempo of Maryland and Master of Lodge No. 12 of Annapolis representing Maryland, The master of Alexandria Lodge of Virginia, and finally Federal Lodge No. 15 City of Washington representing the North South East Western lodges surrounding the Federal City.  It is said that upon that day the George Washington was encompassed by the light on all sided would not due proper credit to our organizations. It would be more proper to say that he was provided a halo of light to set the foundation of the temple of liberty, freedom and justice. He was met by Brother Colin Williams Superintendent of the Work (masonry) who was a Scottish stonemason and regular Federal Lodge member  who had cute the stone based to the perfection of antiquity. He wore a three corned hat and a lamb skin apron and assisted Brother Washington in his work as a noble brother would. Plate made of silver honored the stone with the names of the contributors attributed to the events related to the building of capitol of the United States of America. “The inscription    on  the  silver   plate  on  the  comer-stone   contains  the  names  of  James   Hoban,  architect:    Colin Williamson, Master  Mason, (the   latter  title  referring    no  doubt   to  operative Masonry; )   both   of whom  were members  of  Federal   Lodge,  15, Bro.  Hoban being  Master  of  the Lodge.     The  stone  was deposited   in  the  southeast  corner   of  the  building,  instead  of  the northeast   corner,  as  is   now  the custom. “

Corner-stone of the Capitol.

 

  1. Claude, Jr., esq., of Annapolis, Maryland, has sent the following account of the ceremony of laying the corner-stone of the Capitol, copied from a Georgetown paper into the Maryland Gazette, published at Annapolis, September 26, 1793, which is appended for the benefit of those who are interested in “the craft.” From this it appears that Mr. Elliott was mistaken in supposing the address to have been delivered by the President. The orator of the day was Joseph Clarke, esq., architect of the State-house at Annapolis:

 

Georgetown, September 21. (Free-Press June 21 1851)

 

GEORGE-TOWN September 21[12]

On Wednesday last one of the grandest MASONIC processions too place, for the purpose of laying the corner stone of the Capitol of the United States which, perhaps ever was exhibited on the like important occasion: It was in all probability much facilitated by an advertisement which appeared many days before in several newspapers of this state.

About 10 O’clock Lodge No.9 was visited by  that Congregation, so graceful to the Craft, Lodge no. 22, of Virginia, with all their officers and Regalia and directly afterwards appeared on the Southern banks of the Grands River Potowmack, one of the finest company of Volunteer Artillery that hath been lately seen; parading to receive the President of the United States, who shortly came into sight with his suite- to whom the Artillery paid their military Honors, and Excellency and suite engrossed the Potowmack, and was received in Maryland by the Officers and Brethren of No. 22 Virginia, and No. 9 Maryland, Whom the President headed, and preceded by a band of music; the rear brought up by the Alexandria Volunteer Artillery with Grand solemnity of march, proceeded to the Presidents square in the City of Washington where they were met and saluted by No. 15. of the City of Washington, in there elegant badges and Clothing, headed by Brother Joseph Clark Rt.W.G.M.-P.T. and conducted to a large Lodge prepared for the purposes of their reception. After a short space of time, by the vigilance of Brother C. Worthy Stephenson, Grand Marshal, P.T. the Brotherhood and other Bodies were disposed in a second order of procession, which took place amidst a brilliant crowd of spectators of both sexes, according to the following arrangement, viz,

The Surveying Department of the City of Washington

Mayor and Corporation of Georgetown.

Virginia Artillery

Commissioners of the City of Washington, and their Attendants.

Stone Cutters                                       Mechanics

Two Sword Bearers

Mason of the First Degree

Bibles, &c, on Grand Cushions.

Deacons with Staff of Office.

Masons of the 2nd Degree

Wardens and Truncheons.

Secretaries with Tools of Office.

Past Master with Regalia.

Treasure with their Jewels.

Band of Music.

Lodge No. 22, of Virginia, disposed in their own order

Corn, Wine and  Oil

Grand Master P.T. George Washington, Worshipful Master; No 22. Virginia.

Grand Sword Bearer

The procession marched two abreast, in the greatest solemn dignity, with music playing, drums, beating, colors flying, and spectators rejoicing, from Presidents square to the Capitol, in the City of Washington, where Grand Marshal ordered a hault, and directed each file in the procession, to incline two steps. one right, and one left, and face each other, which formed a hollow oblong square, thought which the Grand Sword Bearer led the van, followed by the Grand Master –P.T. on the left- the President of the United States in the Center, and the Worshipful Master of No. 22, Virginia, on the right- all other orders that composed the procession advanced in the reverse of their order of march from the Presidents Square to the south east corner of the Capitol; and the Artillery filed off to a destined ground to display their manoeuvers and discharge their cannon: The President of the United States, The Grand Master, R.T, and Worshipful M. of No.22, taking their stand to the east of an huge stone; and all the Craft, formed a circle westward, stood a short time in silent awful order.

The Artillery discharged a Volley

The Grand Marshal delivered the Commissioners a Large silver plate with an inscription thereon which the Commissioners ordered to be read, and was as Follows,

The South-East Corner Stone, of the Capitol of the United States of America in the City of Washington was laid on the 18th day of September 1793, in the Thirteen  Year of American Independence, in the first year of the second term of the Presidency of George Washington, whose virtue in the civil administration of his country have been as conspicuous and beneficial, as his Military valor and prudence have been useful in establishing her liberties, and in the year of Masonry 5793 by the President of the United States, in concert with the Grand Lodge of Maryland, several Lodges under its jurisdiction, and lodge No. 22 from Alexandria Virginia

Thomas Johnson Commissioners

David Stuart Commissioners

Daniel Carroll Commissioners

Joseph Clark, R.W.G.M.-P.T.

James Hoban    Architects

Stephen Hallaet   Architects

Collen Williamson M. Mason

The Plate was then delivered to the President, who attended by the Grand Master P.T. and three most Worshipful Masters descended to the Cavazion trench- and deposited the Plate, and laid on it the Cornerstone of the Capitol of the United States of America, on which was deposited Corn Wine and Oil, when the whole congregation joined in reverential prayer, which was succeeded by Masonic Chanting Honors, and a volley from the Artillery.

The President of the United States of America and his attend-ant brethren, ascended from the Cavazion to the east of the corner stone; and there the Grand Master, P.T. elevated on a triple rostrum, delivered an Oration fit-ting the occasion, which was received with Brotherly Love and Commendation; at intervals during the de-livery of the Oration, several volleys were discharged by the Artillery. The ceremony ended in prayer, Masonic Chanting, Honors, and a 15 Volley from Artillery.

The whole company retired to an extensive booth,

Where an ox of 500lbs. weight was barbecued, of which the company generally partook, with every abundance of other recreation. The festival concluded with fifteen successive volleys from the artillery, whose military discipline and maneuvers merit every commendation.

 

May  7th A.L. 5794; A.D. 1794

Grand Lodge proceeded to ballot for officers: David Kerr was duly elected, proclaimed, and installed Right W. Grand Master, and Bro, Clot Worthy Stephenson, Grand Marshall; Bro, William Coghlan, Grand Jr. Deacon.[13]

On motion, handed in by C. Worthy Stephenson, seconded and third, it was Resolved, That the following Circular Letter be transmitted by our Most Worshipful Grand Master to every Grand Lodge known in the United States of America.[14]

 

Resolved, That the following circular letter be transmitted by our most Worshipful Master To Every Grand Lodge known in the United States of America: Grand Lodge of Maryland at their Congregation held in the town of Baltimore the second Thursday of May, 8th  A.L. 5794.

“Most Worshipful Grand Master and other Grand Officers and Brethren: “From a persuasion that there is an absolute necessity for a general conversation of members and officers of the several Grand Lodges that are established throughout the United States for the purposes of cementing more firmly that harmonious bond of charity and brotherly love on one general principle of Mystical Introduction therefore, with affectionate respect, we do propose that a general convention of Free Masons be congregated in Philadelphia composed of the officers of the several Grand Lodges in the United States, to meet on the second Thursday after the stated meeting of the next centennial congress. Therefore, We, with all Masonic deference, request your immediate answer hereto. We are, most esteemed Sirs and Brothers, with brotherly love and affection, your sincere friend, The Grand Lodge of the State of Maryland In General Congregation.”

Weather this was a popular idea at the time or over time it became a necessity for Grand Lodges to meet as the Convention of  Grand Masters our Honorable Grand Marshall and Second Worshipful master possessed foresight of our growing masonic nation. [15]

 

May  8th A.L. 5794; A.D. 1794

At a meeting   of  the  Grand   Lodge  of  the  State  of Maryland, congregated   according  to the will and  pleasure  of the Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master, in  Concordia  Lodge  room, in the  town of Baltimore,   Thursday,   8th  of May, 1794, A.  L. 5794.   Present: The Most Worshipful  John  Coats,  G. M. The  Right  Worshipful   Henry  Wilmans, D. G. M, Bro.   Clot Worthy   Stephenson    present   by Deputation    from Lodge  No. 15. Bro.  Clot Worthy Stephenson   is appointed   Grand Marshall. Our worthy Bro.  Clot Worthy Stephenson   produced his Deputation   to  this   Grand   Lodge   from   Concordia   Lodge,   No.   13., Being read, directed to be filed and recorded.

 

December  18th A.L. 5794; A.D. 1794

Thursday December 18th, 1794-At a Meeting the Grand Lodge of Maryland according to the will and pleasure of the most Worshipful Grand Master of Free Mason in Concordia Lodge Room in the Town of Baltimore on Thursday 18th Dec. Al. 5794.[16]  Clotworthy Stephenson, Elected to the office of Senior Grand Warden Grand Lodge of Maryland

May 7th  A.L. 5795; A.D. 1795

Grand Lodge of Maryland Meeting Clotworthy Stephenson is elected to the office of Grand Marshal.[17]

October 7th A.L. 5795; A.D. 1795

A formal recommendation was made for the George town Brethren on Behalf of Federal Lodge. It was later reasserted October 22, 1795 during grand lodge.

We, the Masters and Wardens of Federal   Lodge,   No.  15. in the  city of Washington,   represent that a petition  has been presented  to  our  Worshipful   Lodge   by eleven  Masters  of George­ town,   praying   a  recommendation    to   your   Right    Worshipful body to obtain a charter to work and make Masons agreeable to the ancient customs and usages.

 

The said petition being read, was unanimously agreed to, and the petitioners being well known to us a good men and Masons we recommend them to your Right worshipful Lodge as such.

 

  1. Worthy Stephenson Master;

William Coghlan Sr. W;

Bernard Crook Jr. W.

October 22th A.L. 5795; A.D. 1795

A petition from George-town was formally received and read at during a meeting a the Grand Lodge of Maryland.  The petition was recommended by Federal Lodge No. 15 of Washington. (Clotworthy Stephenson and William Coghlan)

December 14th A.L. 5795; A.D. 1795

One of the Founding members of Federals Royal Encampment of the United States Washington D.C.” At a meeting of the Royal Arch Encampment, held in the Lodge No. 15 (Federal) on Monday, December 14th 1795. Present: Rev. George Ralph, John Bradford, Robert Brown, C.Worthy Stephenson, Dennis Dulaney, Thomas Wilson, David Cummins and James Sweeny.[18]This chapter existed from 1794-1799. C.Worthy Stephenson is also mentioned as a member in the rolls of the Royal Arch Union Chapter of 1808.

“At a meeting of the Royal Arch Encampment held in the Lodge No 15 Federal Lodge on Monday

Additional Reference:

December 14th AL 5795 Present Rev George Ralph Dennis Dulaney John Bradford Thomas Wilson Robert Brown David Cummings C Worthy Stephenson James Sweeny WHEREAs It appears to be the desire of several Brethren of this Lodge that a Royal Arch Encampment should be established in this city therefore Resolved That a committee be appointed of the following Brethren viz Brothers Ralph Wilson and Dulaney to procure every necessary apparatus and to adjust the necessary fees and expenses of admission to this Degree Resolved That the Brethren who wish to join this Encampment be requested to subscribe to a paper instrument handed to them by Bro Sweeny previous to the foregoing Committee proceeding in the calculation of the expenses of our Robes Wails Furniture etc The Committee to meet on Wednesday evening at 4 o clock PM and general meeting of the Royal Arch Masons to meet at 6 o clock previously the same evening The meeting then adjourned Wednesday evening

December 16th  A.L. 5795; A.D. 1795

Present as at last meeting except Bro Stephenson The committee appointed at last meeting made the following report Your committee report that from the imperfect information which the nature of the business admits they are of opinion the sum of twenty three pounds and one shilling is indispensably necessary to provide the materials to prepare them and to arrange the Lodge room previous to the forming a Royal Arch Encampment they also recommend that a fine of Ten Dollars be paid by every member at his admission the whole of which shall be appropriated to a fund to the relief of distressed Brethren and for the Widows and Children of deceased Brethren and they farther recommend that the whole expense of the night including supper refreshments etc shall be defrayed by the Brethren to this honorable Degree The report was unanimously agreed to Under date

June 23rd A.L. 5796; A.D. 1796

At the annual meeting  of  the Grand  Lodge,  held in Concordia Lodge, No. 13, June 22, A.L. 5796, David Kerr, MW.G.M.; Clot Worthy Stephenson Grand Marshal and represented Federal Lodge, No. 15. [19]

 

May 3rd  A.L. 5797; A.D. 1797

At  an  Extra   Communication of  the  Grand  Lodge  of  State  of Maryland, May 3,  1797, David  Kerr,   M. W.  G. Master, William Coghlan, G. J.  D., (pro tempore) and  C. Worthy Stephenson, were present… Bro.  C. Worthy  Stephenson not being  furnished with proper credentials  as  proxy  from  Lodge  No.  15, and  having  informed the Grand  Lodge  that  it  had  been  owing  to  the summons from the  Grand  Secretary not  coming  to hand  in sufficient time to call a meeting of said Lodge before  the meeting of the  Grand  Lodge, whereupon it was resolved that  Bro.  Clot Worthy   Stephenson be allowed to take his seat as proxy of said Lodge No. 15

June 17th A.L. 5797; A.D. 1797

The following A letter from Comp Sweeny was received it stated that a Royal Arch Grand Lodge is about to be formed for the State of Maryland to meet at Baltimore the 24th June

Under date Nov 4th 5797 A circular letter from George L Gray No 5 Market St Baltimore addressed to Comp Jas Sweeny containing information of the establishment of a Grand Chapter in the City of Baltimore To which an answer containing the opinion of the brethren was addressed to the said George L Gray signed by the High Priest Captain General and Grand Master a copy of which is reserved in the Chapter Meetings were held with more or less regularity until Feb 5799 When it was resolved that the Royal Arch Encampment be broke up and a committee was appointed to settle up its affairs and every one to receive his dividend At this time the officers were as follows M W JAMES HOBAN High Priest R W John CARTER Captain General ROBT BROWN 1st Grand Master & 4 REDMOND PURCELL 2nd PETER LENOX 3rd & & 4 John HANLEY Treasurer & PATRICK HEARLY Secretary John LENOX Tyler Members Alex McCormick Samuel Elliott Wm O Neal Jeremiah Galligher Daniel Cumming Benjamin Moore Jas Sweeny Clotworthy Stephenson Rev Geo Ralph Owen Donlevey Jas Hodgson Pierce Purnell Richard Gridley”.[20]

November 20th  A.L. 5797; A.D. 1797

Grand Lodge of Maryland Resolved,

At a Convention of the RW Grand Lodge of Free accepted Masons for the State of Maryland held at Concordia Lodge Room in the city of Baltimore on the day of the Eleventh Month in the year of Masonry 5797 according to the Vulgar era the 20th day of November 1797

“Bro David Geddess presented a memorial stating that he had rented to Bro Clotworthy Stephenson a ferry at Georgetown and that he was unable to obtain payment from said Stephenson On motion it was resolved that Bro Geddes is justified in suing and recovering at law from Bro Stephenson.”[21]

That Bro. David Geddes be and he is by this Grand Lodge considered fully justifiable in suing and recovering at law from Bro. Clot Worthy Stephenson the amount of his account presented with the foregoing petition or such part as may be justly and lawfully due by said Bro. Stephenson to Bro. Geddes. “ [22]

 

Fraternal Year A.L. 5798; A.D. 1798-

 

Capt. Clotworthy Stephenson is once again elected W.M. of Federal Lodge no. 15 [23]

 

December 23rd  A.L. 5811; A.D. 1811

Stated Communication:  Committee of three to investigate a Dispute between Bro G.Moore and C.W. Stephenson. [24]

 

February 3rd  A.L. 5811; A.D. 1811

 

Stated Communication: In attendance at a meeting of Federal Lodge No. 1 [25]

 

November 27  A.L. 5819; A.D. 1819

“Called Communication- Saturday November 27, 1819 A.L. 5819– A communication was called due to the death of Brother Clotworthy Stephenson.  Brethren from Lodges No.3, No. 7 No.619 London, No. 95 Ireland; No. 9 St Johns Lodge were present. A lodge was open on the first degree in due for the purposes of a procession to the home of the deceased brother and from there to George T, the place of burial where the deceased was buried with Masonic Honors. The lodge then returned to the Lodge Room where upon a motion it was resolved that in testimony of their respect for the Deceased Brother the member of this lodge wear scarf? On the left arm for the space of 30 days no other business appearing the lodge closed in harmony.

©Thomas M. Saharsky, 2019. No part of this Multi-jurisdictional Index of the Masonic Career of Clotworthy Stephenson may be reproduced in whole or in part in any manner without the permission of the copyright owner.

[1] Library an Museum of the Grand Lodge of Ireland, Roll Belfast Lodge No. 491, March !785

[2] Dermott, Laurence, Belfast, W. Magee, 1803  Ahiman Rezon 7th EDT  (p. XX) “A New Edition Addressed to the Belfast Orange Lodge No. 257”

[3] All minutes courtesy of the Private Archive of the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania, Minute books 1784-1787, Philadelphia  Pennsylvania

[4]  All minutes courtesy of the Private Archive Richmond Lodge No. 10, Minute books 1787-1792, Richmond, Virginia

[5] All minutes courtesy of the Private Archive of the Grand Lodge of Virginia, Minute books 1787-1793, Richmond, Virginia.

[6] Discrepancy in the minute book suggesting that this is October not September

[7] Section Five of the bylaws  requires a candidate to  pay one gunniee as well as comply with the requirements of the Grand Constitutions of Virginia; there is an addition provision that a certificate that the previous lodge dues are up-to-date must be present by any brother seeking to join the lodge

[8] Keatinge, George, Grand Lodge of Maryland Ahiman Rezon 1797, January 16th  1797, Maryland

[9] Edward Thomas Shultz, 1884-1890 History of Freemasonry in Maryland of All Rites introduced into Maryland from the Earliest Time to the Present Vol. 1-3, Baltimore J.H. Medairy &CO

[10] Federal Lodge No. 1, (September 1943)  Federal Lodge No. 1 No. 1 Free & Accepted Masons of the District of Columbia “Honos Habet Onus”

[11] Bro. William A Short Past Master, (1877), Bylaws of Federal Lodge No. 1 of Free & Accepted Masons, Working Under the Jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, Washington D.C., Gibson & Brothers, Printers

[12]  Maryland Gazette, September 21, 1793

[13] Bro. William A Short Past Master, (1877), Bylaws of Federal Lodge No. 1 of Free & Accepted Masons, Working Under the Jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, Washington D.C., Gibson & Brothers, Printers

[14] Edward Thomas Shultz, 1884-1890 History of Freemasonry in Maryland of All Rites introduced into Maryland from the Earliest Time to the Present Vol. 1-3, Baltimore J.H. Medairy &CO

[15] Keatinge, George, Grand Lodge of Maryland Ahiman Rezon 1797, January 16th  1797, Maryland

[16] Edward Thomas Shultz, 1884-1890 History of Freemasonry in Maryland of All Rites introduced into Maryland from the Earliest Time to the Present Vol. 1-3, Baltimore J.H. Medairy &CO

[17]Edward Thomas Shultz, 1884-1890 History of Freemasonry in Maryland of All Rites introduced into Maryland from the Earliest Time to the Present Vol. 1-3, Baltimore J.H. Medairy &CO

[18] Edward Thomas Shultz, 1884-1890 History of Freemasonry in Maryland of All Rites introduced into Maryland from the Earliest Time to the Present Vol. 1-3, Baltimore J.H. Medairy &CO

[19] Bro. William A Short Past Master, (1877), Bylaws of Federal Lodge No. 1 of Free & Accepted Masons, Working Under the Jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, Washington D.C., Gibson & Brothers, Printers

[20] Edward Thomas Shultz, 1884-1890 History of Freemasonry in Maryland of All Rites introduced into Maryland from the Earliest Time to the Present Vol. 1-3, Baltimore J.H. Medairy &CO

[21] Edward Thomas Shultz, 1884-1890 History of Freemasonry in Maryland of All Rites introduced into Maryland from the Earliest Time to the Present Vol. 1-3, Baltimore J.H. Medairy &CO

[22] Bro. William A Short Past Master, (1877), Bylaws of Federal Lodge No. 1 of Free & Accepted Masons, Working Under the Jurisdiction of the Grand Lodge of the District of Columbia, Washington D.C., Gibson & Brothers, Printers

[23] Federal Lodge No. 1, (September 1943)  Federal Lodge No. 1 No. 1 Free & Accepted Masons of the District of Columbia “Honos Habet Onus”

[24] Federal Lodge No. 1, Minutes 1809-1825, Unpublished

[25] Federal Lodge No. 1, Minutes 1809-1825, Unpublished

 

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