Michael Robinson - Scottish Rite Orient of Oregon

Percy Scott Hoyt by Michael Robinson

Posted on March 27, 2017

Percy Scott Hoyt, the 49^th Inspector General n the Orient of Oregon, was born on June 1, 1860 in Manhattan, New York City, New York. He was the son of Goold Hoyt III and his wife Adeline Camilla Scott. The Hoyt family can be traced to Simon Hoyt who was in Salem, Massachusetts before 1628; he was born in about 1590. He was from a different line of Hoyts then Henry (#20) and Ralph (#47) who can be traced back to John born in about 1615. It is possible that Simon and John were related, but the Hoyt genealogy was unable to make the connection. Simon’s son Walter, born about 1618 was in Windsor, Connecticut by 1640 and made his way to Norwalk, Connecticut where he died in 1698. Walter’s son Zerubbabel, born about 1650 was a Deacon in Norwalk. His son Joseph, born about 1677 and grandson James born May 25, 1708 continued on in Norwalk, where James and his wife Hannah Gould had a son born on January 9, 1738 and given a name which was a version of his mother’s surname Goold Hoyt. Goold was born on January 9, 1738 in Norwalk and by 1767 he was Collector of the Rate for the Church of England. He was one of 20 men from Norwalk who supported the 11^th article of the act passed by the First Continental Congress on December 5, 1774. Some of his brothers served the Loyalist cause during the Revolution. Goold Hoyt and Elizabeth Dimon were married on June 13, 1765, and had a son Goold Hoyt II born on November 16, 1769 in Norwalk. Goold II married Sabina the daughter of Henry Sheaff and Sabina Lydig and they had a son Goold Hoyt III born in 1818. Goold Hoyt II was a very successful Merchant in New York City and amassed a large fortune. When he died on July 22, 1842 his will left $10,000 to the Episcopal Church. Goold Hoyt III married Adeline Camilla Scott our subject’s parents. Camilla was the daughter of Winfield Scott. Her grandfather William Scott served during the Revolution and was part of the Dinwiddie, Virginia Militia. Her father Winfield Scott was born June 13, 1786 and was one of the most important military figures of the first half of the 19^th Century. Winfield Scott joined the military in 1808, rising through the ranks he was a Brig. General at the Battle of Lundy Lane during the War of 1812. During the Indian conflicts of the 1830’s Scott led the Army agains the Seminoles and Creek, and was part of the removal of the Cherokees. On June 25, 1841 Winfield Scott became the commanding General of the U.S. Army with the rank of Major General. Maj. General Scott commanded the American forces during the Mexican War in 1847. He was a contender for the office of president for the Whig party in 1840, 1848 and 1852. He was eventually promoted to Lt. General, the first to hold that rank since George Washington. When the American Civil War started in 1861 Scott was to old, sick and fat to Command. He offered the command to Col. Robert E. Lee. Lee refused to side with his home in Virginia and command went to Gen. Irwin McDowell, which did not work out well for the Union. Scott survived the war and died in West Point New York on March 25, 1866. His grandson Percy Scott Hoyt was only 6 when his famous grandfather died. His older brother Winfield Scott Hoyt was given the sword General Scott used during the War with Mexico.

Percy Scott Hoyt lived with his family in Manhattan. Goold Hoyt III was not listed as have an occupation in the census records that were found. The family lived at 45 West 17^th Street, next door to a Convent. In 1880 the household contained the family and six domestic servants. Of the four adult Hoyt children still living at home in 1880, none had occupations, and the two younger sisters were still in school. Percy has yet to be found in the 1900 census but he does appear in the Portland Oregon Masonic Directory starting in 1906. He did not live in Portland, and the Directory shows that his residence was in Cheyenne, Laramie, Wyoming. Indications are this was his main residence throughout the rest of his life, or at least until 1920.

His picture was included in the January 1906 program for the 6^th Cathedral Class, he was noted to be a member of the Cheyenne Consistory in Cheyenne, Wyoming and was called “An ever welcome guest, whose charming personality has Graced many of our Re-unions”. He is found on the membership rolls in the Portland Masonic Directory from 1906 until his death in 1929.

He appears to have been a member of Engine 14 of the New York City Fire Department, and was Fire Chief in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He was also a participant in the Cheyenne Frontier Days as shown in the picture below.

PHoyt

We know that on at least two occasions Percy sailed to England, one trip in 1884 and another in 1913. The ship list for 1913 gives an address in New York City. What we can discern from this is he had family in New York, lived in Cheyenne, and for whatever unknown reason became a frequent visitor to Portland, Oregon. The 1910 and 1920 U.S. Census’ showed that Percy owned his home in Cheyenne outright and had no mortgage, not surprising considering his family’s wealth. It is not known for certain, but is likely that he lived out his life in Cheyenne until his passing on January 4, 1929, a month before the death of Philip S. Malcolm in Portland. Percy S. Hoyt died in Ogden, Utah leaving the bulk of his $400,000 estate to his sister Virginia Scott Hoyt of New York City.[1]

[1] The Ogden Standard-Examiner, Feb. 14, 1929 page 3.

PS Hoyt

Masonic History

We have little information on his Masonic career. He was made a Mason, but we know not when or where, only that it was before 1906. He may have joined in New York or Wyoming. He was a member of the Scottish Rite in Cheyenne, but we don’t know if this is where he received the degrees. We do know that by January 1906 he was a 32° Mason and had been a frequent visitor to Portland, Oregon. He joined the Scottish Rite in Portland after 1904 and early enough to be included in the Portland Masonic Directory for the year 1906. It is also not known if he retained his membership in Wyoming as a duel member. What is clear his visits to Portland had enough impact that he was given his Honors through the Portland Valley. He received the KCCH on October 20, 1909, and was elected Inspector General Honorary 33° on October 21, 1919 and was Coroneted 33° in Portland January 15, 1920.

About the author:

MDR Fall 2016

Michael D. Robinson 32° KSA, was the second Master Mason Raised in Esoterika Lodge #227, and the first member Raised in that Lodge to serve as Worshipful Master. He was elected Master in 2013 and 2014, and currently serves as Historian. He is also Historian for Research Lodge #198 and Eugene Lodge #11 and District Deputy of District #13. Brother Robinson was appointed Historian of the Scottish Rite Orient of Oregon in December of 2014. He was the recipient of the “Novus Astorum” from the Portland Valley Scottish Rite in 2010, and the Hiram Award from Esoterika Lodge in 2012. In March of 2015 he was made Secretary of the Eugene Valley, and Director of the Work for that Valley in January of 2017.

Portland Valley Scottish Rite Temple

Posted on December 11, 2015

Scottish Rite Temple 15^th and Morrison St, Portland Oregon 1903

The members of the Portland Valley in the Orient of Oregon have the privilege of conducting their work in a beautiful, distinctive and historic build. A building that has significance to all of Scottish Rite. In 1890 the Orient of Oregon was teetering on the edge of dissolution. The idea of turning in the charter had been put forward with concerns about the Orients viability. Fortunately that choice was rejected in favor of starting a Consistory and going all in. Through the efforts of a dedicated group of Brothers led by Philip Schuyler Malcolm the fortunes of Oregon Scottish Rite were turned around and within a few years the Rite was thriving. Twelve years after the decision was made to continue on, funds had been raised and a new building was built for the sole purpose of the work of Scottish Rite in Oregon. We read in the History of the Oregon Scottish Rite:

“Fulfillment of the long-cherished dream of a Scottish Rite Temple came to fruition when a Grand Opening was held May 19, 1903 in the form of a Grand Concert Organ Recital and Ball. This was the first Scottish Rite Temple built in the United States solely for Scottish Rite functions and purposes. Requests for blueprints came from all over the United States; so many copies were made and sent, the original blueprints were misplaced. Architects from many cities were sent to study the Temple Building and its plans, and, at that time, the Portland, Oregon Scottish Rite Temple was recognized as one of the Outstanding Scottish Rite Temples in the United States!”

The building was designed by Illustrious Brother Richard Martin, Jr. (see bio in the March 2015 blog below). As noted much interest was shown in Brother Martin’s plans, and the “offspring” of our building began to be erected throughout the United States and in other parts of the world. Some of those building still stand.

This summer there was an article in the Scottish Rite Journal issued July-August 2015 “The Masonic Hall in Athens” on page 22. This showed the building erected in Athens, Greece in 1931. During World War II the Nazi’s, who had proclaimed Freemasonry illegal, commandeered the building, destroyed the furniture and took the documents and records (what became of them is still unknown). The Nazi’s used the building during the war and left it in very poor condition. The building was restored and survived until the 1960’s when it was replaced by the current building. The Athens building holds many of the distinct features of the Oregon building and it would be of interest to see the interior layout for comparison. There is little doubt in the mind of this author that the Athens building was based on the plans of the Oregon building.

After the loss of my mother in September, my return trip brought me to Dallas, Texas to visit my aunt and uncle. In a journey into downtown Dallas with my aunt we went to see the Dallas Valley Scottish Rite building. At first glance it was clear that this was another of the “offspring” of our Portland build, whose construction was based on the plans of Richard Martin, Jr. Any doubt was laid to rest after touring the building. We were guided through the building by Brother Scott Stanton commander of the KSA, who generously took time out of his day to show us this magnificent structure. Although the building is grander, bigger and more ornate, the layout is roughly the same.

SR Dallas — Dallas Valley Scottish Rite 1908

As can be seen the Dallas building has stairs to the main floor outside as opposed to Oregon’s which are inside. However the internal grand stairways are nearly identical and the main floor leads into the dining room in both buildings. The interior rooms have different uses and in the case of Dallas are bigger, but the placement is roughly the same. The auditoriums are also placed in the same parts of the buildings except as you enter Portland’s the stage is on the right and Dallas’ is on the left. The Dallas auditorium also has an Egyptian motif.

20151021_144756 — Grand stairway Portland Scottish Rite

20151009_133626 — Banquet Hall Dallas Scottish Rite

From the Dallas Valley webpage we are informed that “The Scottish Rite of Freemasonry entered Dallas with the permanent charter of Dallas Lodge of Perfection granted on October 20, 1897.

Plans for a new home began when “The Dallas Scottish Rite Cathedral Association” was organized in 1903. No Reunion had up to this time been held in The Valley of Dallas for lack of suitable quarters. In May, 1904, the first Reunion of the Rite took place in Turner Hall at Harwood and Canton Streets on the site on which the Masonic Temple now stands. They continued to be held there until November, 1908, when the tenth Reunion was held in the new Cathedral.”

The Dallas building is more spacious, and contains more beautiful marble and plaster work then the Portland building, but there is no doubt that the Dallas building was based on the Portland blueprints and the architectural work of Ill. Bro. Richard H. Martin.

Dallas hosts the largest Scottish Rite Valley in the world with approximately 4,700 current members. Twice a year, using a team of about 220 members and crew, the Valley puts on all 29 Scottish Rite degrees in full Reunions in the Spring and Fall,. They also host a one day five terminal degrees Reunion in the Summer. Scottish Rite Brethren are welcomed and encouraged to visit and attend these Reunions. There is no charge for members of any valley. Just pay for breakfast and lunch if you want to eat.

In conclusion my brothers as you travel keep an eye out for the “offspring” of the Portland Valley Scottish Rite building, and be sure to take pictures and report back your findings.

Michael D. Robinson 32° KSA, was the second Master Mason Raised in Esoterika Lodge #227, and the first member Raised in that Lodge to serve as Worshipful Master. He was elected Master in 2013 and 2014, and currently serves as Chaplin for that Lodge. Brother Robinson was appointed Historian for the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite Orient of Oregon in December of 2014, and Secretary of the Eugene Valley in March of 2015. He also serves as Historian for Research Lodge #198 and Eugene Lodge #11. He is the recipient of the “Novus Astorum” from the Scottish Rite in 2010, and the Hiram Award from Esoterika Lodge in 2012.

Brother Robinson has a degree in History from Colorado State University, class of 1982,

John Milton Hodson

Posted on November 6, 2015

John Milton Hodson

Grand Master of Masons in Oregon 1899-1900

26^th Inspector General Honorary 33° in Oregon 1902

John Milton Hodson was born near New Vienna, Clinton, Ohio on August 24, 1839. According to the Portrait and Biographical Record of the Willamette Valley, John M. Hodson was descended from Robert Hodgson (ca. 1615), an officer in the English Army under Oliver Cromwell. He served in Ireland from 1645 to 1650. According to that source, after his death two sons and a daughter came to America, about 1660. The daughter and one son went to New York, while the other son George (ca. 1640) settled on Sassafras creek in Susquehanna, Pennsylvania. His son John (ca. 1670) lived and died on the old homestead.[1] John was said to be the father of Robert born 1738, but such a scenario omits at least one generation, depending on the assumed dates included above. George Hodgson, born 1701 is the father of Robert, born in 1738. For these two genealogies to fit together Robert would have to be the grandson of John and not his son. Also the story included below about the family coming to America in 1710 would be erroneous. The fact that the family names are consistent, for the most part, and the place of origin in Ireland matches may indicate a connection between the two stories. From a genealogy of the family on Ancestry.com we find the following story; it seems that the names and dates are likely accurate, but for one story to fit with the other some of the details concerning their arrival would have to be reconsidered.

George Hodgson was born in Dorcaster, York, England on January 6, 1701, to John Hodgson and his wife, both members of the Quaker community. The Hodgson family moved to Ireland when George was very young and from there sailed to America in 1710. During the crossing John Hodgson, his wife and two of their three sons took sick, died and were buried at sea. George, age nine arrived in Philadelphia an orphan. We can assume that a Quaker family took him in and he was likely raised in a Quaker community in the Philadelphia area. In about 1730 George married 18 year old Mary Dix Thatcher, also a Quaker, whose grandfather Richard Thatcher had come to Pennsylvania in 1685 from Uffingham, Berkshire, England. The Thatcher’s were from Chester, Pennsylvania and it was here that George and Mary settled and had at least six children. “In the early 1750’s George and his family joined the Quaker Migration to North Carolina where in 1761 he had a land grant of 640 acres, in what is now Guilford County. They lived near and worshipped at a Quaker church called Centre Meeting about 10 miles directly south of present day Greensboro, North Carolina. George died in Guilford County in August of 1774.”[2]

Robert, son of George and Mary Hodgson was born in Chester County, Pennsylvania on May 11, 1738. He settled with his family in North Carolina and on November 25, 1758 he married Rachel the daughter of Thomas Mills, who had come to Rowan County, North Carolina from Frederick, Virginia. Robert and Rachel had 12 children before her death on April 24, 1791 at the age of 53. Robert was said to have been a Quaker Minister. He married Rachel’s 1st cousin, also named Rachel Mills on February 6, 1794, she was 20 years younger than Robert and gave him four more children before her death on July 24, 1811, coincidently at the age of 53. Robert died two years later on April 12, 1813. Being of a Quaker family there is no indication that Robert served during the Revolution, although the Southern Campaign of 1781 came through their neighborhood. On March 15, 1781 a “2,100-man British force under the command of Lieutenant General Charles Cornwallis defeated Major General Nathanael Greene’s 4,500 Americans. The British Army, however, sustained such heavy casualties that the result was a strategic victory for the Americans.”[3] The advance guard met near the Quaker New Garden Meeting House, this was the house of worship used by the Hodgson family.

Jonathan Hodson[4] was born on October 16, 1763 in Guilford County, North Carolina, as was noted in the New Garden records. Jonathon Married Mary the daughter of Aaron Fraizer on October 1, 1789 in Guilford. Mary was born October 18, 1769 in Randolph County, North Carolina. Jonathan and Mary Hodson had eight known children in Guilford County, North Carolina before relocating to Ohio in about 1810, where Mary died that year in Fairfield County. Jonathan eventually settled in Clinton County, Ohio where he died on January 3, 1821.

The 2nd son and 4th child of Jonathan and Mary Hodson was Matthew, born on July 29, 1795 in Guilford County, North Carolina. Coming to Clinton County, Ohio with his parents and siblings Matthew married in Clear Creek on October 18, 1821 to Hannah daughter of Asa Hunt. The Hunt family was also from Guilford, North Carolina were Hannah’s birth was recorded at New Garden on January 31, 1799. The couple had four known children born in Clinton County, including our subject John Milton who was born near New Vienna in 1839. Still holding strongly to his forbearers’ Quaker beliefs Matthew was a strong opponent to slavery. “Matthew Hodson, was a farmer in (Clinton) county, and remained there until 1852. In that year, he removed to Hancock County, Indiana, and in 1867 to Rush County, Indiana, where he died in 1873, at the age of seventy-nine years. He was a member of the Society of Friends, and in the ante-bellum days was a pronounced Abolitionist. He acted in concert with the managers of the famous “Underground Railroad”, and often sheltered fugitive slaves, and assisted them on the way to liberty. He was a man who always occupied a high place in the estimation of those who knew him, and was always recognized as a good citizen and honorable man.”[5] Hannah Hunt Hodson died in Rush County, Indiana in 1869 and Matthew was laid to rest in the same County, the date actually being April 7, 1874.

John Milton Hodson

As noted John Milton Hodson was born in Clinton County, Ohio in 1839. “The subject of our sketch moved with his parents to Indiana, and spent his boyhood on a farm, attending the district school.” [6] Subsequently, he attended an excellent school in Westland, Hancock Co. Indiana, conducted by the Friends.[7] “In 1856 he began to teach in the district school in winter, and working on the farm during the summer. In order to gain the means for a further education, when 19 years of age, he paid his father $200 for the remaining two years of his minority. In 1859 he entered the National Normal University at Lebanon, Ohio and in 1860 completed the Scientific course, afterwards receiving the honorary degree of Master of Science. In 1861 he bought and operated a steam saw mill, and two years after owned a Drug Store, for two years, and then engaged in teaching.”[8] On October 17, 1861 John Hodson married Martha Ann Rawles of Stark County, Ohio. The couple had five children, the first four died young. The youngest child, a daughter named Gertrude, born in January of 1874 in Winchester, Randolph, Indiana, survived childhood, married William Pringle Muffley and died in Portland, Oregon on February 20, 1943.

“By his previous preparation, (Hodson) was well qualified for the profession of school teaching, which he adopted in 1858. He taught two years in Hancock County, Indiana, and for a period of sixteen years, was engaged in teaching in the counties of Hancock, Hamilton, Rush, Henry, Hendricks and Randolph, respectively. From 1867 to 1869 he held the office of School Examiner of Rush County, Indiana; he was Superintendant of the Schools of Knightstown, Indiana, for one year, having under his supervision seven teachers and 500 pupils. He served two years in the same capacity at Plainfield, Indiana, where there were six teachers and 450 pupils. As a teacher, he always ranked highly, and gained the good will of the scholars, while under his supervision the schools were marked by progress and improvement.”

“In 1872, Mr. Hodson came to Winchester, and in July of that year purchased a half interest in the Winchester Journal, of which he was joint proprietor for nine years, or until July, 1881, when he sold his interest to his partner, Mr. Beeson.”[9] At the time of the 1880 census John is listed as an Editor in Randolph County, Indiana. That same year John’s wife Martha Ann became ill and the Hodson family moved to Florida in hopes of recouping her health. The attempt was unsuccessful and Mrs. Hodson died in Florida in 1881 at the age of 53. John and his daughter Gertrude returned to Indiana where John sold his interest in the Winchester Journal as mentioned above. On April 4, 1883 John M. Hodson married Winona Coffin in Indianapolis, Indiana. Winona was born in Wisconsin on September 23, 1855. The couple did not have any children. Winona died in Los Angeles, California on September 14, 1933, her remains were returned to Portland, Oregon where they were laid to rest near her husband at the Riverview Cemetery.

After his marriage in 1883, John Hodson, his new bride and nine year old daughter headed west and settled in Eugene, Oregon. Here John met a brother Mason, Silas Yoran and commenced a lifelong friendship and business association. Silas Yoran had come to Eugene from Iowa in 1883. Upon his arrival he found that the city had two Democratic leaning papers.[10] Brother Yoran determined to start weekly paper to promote a Republican prospective, and so the Eugene Register was born. The Papers founder, Yoran teamed up with Editor Hodson and the paper began circulation. John Hodson worked as editor of the Weekly Register for 4 years[11] “Disposing of his interest in that enterprise, he removed to Portland and three years later received the appointment of deputy collector of customs, which position he held until the advent of the Cleveland administration, when he resigned and purchased an interest in the Irvin-Hodson Company. He was secretary and accountant for that firm for four years. After leaving that firm, he devoted his attention to the real estate business in which he continued until ill health compelled him to cease his activity.”[12]

John M. Hodson was a subject of the “History of Randolph County, Indiana” in 1882 and in his biography it was noted that in “politics, he is an enthusiastic Republican, having been identified with that party ever since he was old enough to vote. He is an uncompromising temperance man, and has rendered effective service to the cause be precept and example. He is in all respects a good citizen and a valued member of society.”[13] At that time it was noted that “Mr. Hodson is yet comparatively a young man, but his life has been a busy one, and the energy and enthusiasm with which he has entered into his labors have been fairly successful and repaid from a financial Standpoint. He is not a member of any religious denomination, is a Unitarian (Quaker) in belief, yet more liberal toward all candid opinions of others.”[14]

In 1910 John M. Hodson took ill and died it was recorded as follows:

Founder and Former Editor of Eugene Register Devoted Much of Long Life to Fraternity.

Funeral This Afternoon

John Milton Hodson, ex-grand master of the Oregon lodge of Masons and one of the most prominent members of the Masonic fraternity on the Pacific coast, founder and ex-editor of the Eugene Register, ex-deputy collector of customs for the Port of Portland and ex-secretary of the Irwin-Hodson Company, died at his home, 603 East Madison street, yesterday morning, after an illness extending over several months and following series of paralytic strokes. He was 71 years of age.

While Mr. Hodson was prominent in business and industrial affairs of Portland and the state, it was through his Masonic connections that he became best known. Through his work in that fraternity he became acquainted, by correspondence, with the jurisdictions in all parts of the world. He was probably the best informed man in the history of Masonry on the Pacific coast. The later years of his life were devoted almost entirely to his work for the organization which he loved.

Illness is Contracted.

It was while serving as a member of the committee that selected the rite for the present Masonic temple at West Park and Yamhill streets that he contracted the illness that led to the first and subsequent attacks of paralysis.[15]

FUNERAL NOTICES.

Hodson–At his residence, 603 East Madison, Sunday, October 9, John M. Hodson, aged 71 years, 1 month, 15 days. Funeral services tomorrow (Monday) October 10 at Scottish Rite Cathedral, 9 o’clock p.m. by nights Kadosh, Tuesday, Oct. 11, at same place at 2 o’clock P.M. services conducted by the grand lodge of Oregon. A.F. and A. M. Friends invited to both services.[16]

Masonic Service

John Milton Hodson “was made a Mason in Golden Rule Lodge, No. 16, of Knightstown, being raised March 13, 1865. He received the Capitular degrees in Knightstown Chapter, No. 33, being exalted January 7, 1870. He obtained the Cryptic Rite in Knightstown Council, No. 29, January 10, 1870, and was Knighted in William Hacker Commandery, of Knightstown, receiving the Templar degree January 29, 1870; and since his residence in Oregon has attained the thirty-second degree, A. & A. Scottish Rite, and has traversed the burning sands in Al Kader Temple, No. 1, A. O. of the Mystic Shrine.

His official relations with the Craft have been almost continuous since he was made a Mason. He was Master under dispensation, and afterward for three years under charter of Carthage Lodge, No. 179, of Carthage, Indiana; He removed to Winchester, Indiana, in 1872, and affiliated with Winchester Lodge, No. 56, Randolph Chapter, No. 35,· Winchester Council, No. 20, and Richmond Commandery, No. 5, Knights Templar.· He was High Priest of Randolph Chapter two terms, and twice elected Illustrious Master of Winchester Council. Removing to Oregon in 1883, he affiliated with Eugene Lodge, No. 11*, Eugene Chapter, No. 10, Oregon Council, No.2, of Corvallis, and Ivanhoe Commandery, No.2, of Eugene, which affiliations he has maintained, with the exception that he is now a member of Washington Council, No. 3, of Portland. He served as High Priest of Eugene Chapter one year. He participated in the organization of the Grand Commandery of Oregon, and, after serving in nearly all the subordinate positions was elected Grand Commander in 1894. He has served on the Committee on Correspondence and has prepared all the reports from the Templar Jurisdiction of Oregon. He has been a member of the Grand Chapter of Oregon at nearly every convocation since 1884, and after serving in many of the minor positions, was elected Grand High Priest in, 1895. He has served the Grand Chapter as chairman of its Committee on Correspondence since 1891.

He has been present at nearly every annual communication of the Grand Lodge since 1884, serving on its committees and in several subordinate offices. He was elected Grand Master in 1899, and is now the Committee on Correspondence of the Grand Lodge of Oregon. He is the only Mason in Oregon who has presided over all the Grand Masonic bodies of the York Rite, being at this date M..Ill. Grand Master of the Cryptic Rite He served two years as President of the Grand Council of the Order of High Priesthood, 1894 and 1895. He is an earnest supporter of the fundamental principles and philosophies of the world’s greatest fraternity, and believes that their most perfect illustration by its members is to be found in their daily life and conduct.”[17]

Foreign Correspondant for Oregon Masonry

Of the Grand Lodge since 1900 to his death Oct. 1910

Of the Grand Chapter since 1893 to his death Oct. 1910

Of the Grand Commandery since 1890 to his death Oct. 1910[18]

*After his arrival in Oregon in 1883, John M. Hodson Affiliated with Eugene City Lodge No. 11. His petition was read on December 8, 1883 and was rejected. Another committee was formed and gave their report on January 2, 1884, this time the vote was favorable and Worshipful Brother Hodson was elected a member by Affiliation. Although he was only in Eugene for a few years he maintained his membership in Lodge No. 11 for the rest of his life.

[1] Portrait and Biographical Record of the Willamette Valley Oregon, Chapman Publishing Company Chicago 1903. Pages 169-170.

[2] Findagrave.com George Hodgson 1701-1774

[3] Wikipedia Battle of Guilford Courthouse March 15, 1781

[4] The “g” was dropped in this generation going from Hodgson to Hodson.

[5] History of Randolph County, Indiana, with Illustrations and Biographical Sketches by E. Tucker A. L. Klingman, 1882, page 215.

[6] “Masonic Records of the Oregon Scottish Rite”, biographical sketch of J.M. Hodson by Seth L. Pope, dated Jan. 1903.

[7] History of Randolph County, Indiana, with Illustrations and Biographical Sketches by E. Tucker A. L. Klingman, 1882, page 215.

[8] “Masonic Records of the Oregon Scottish Rite”, biographical sketch of J.M. Hodson by Seth L. Pope, dated Jan. 1903.

[9] History of Randolph County, Indiana, with Illustrations and Biographical Sketches by E. Tucker A. L. Klingman, 1882, page 215.

[10] (Including the Eugene Guard which was founded in 1867 by J. B. Alexander, the Charter Senior Warden of Eugene City Lodge No. 11.)

[11] One record says 6 years.

[12] The Historical Oregonian, Oct. 10, 1910, page 8. Findagrave.com

[13] History of Randolph County, Indiana, with Illustrations and Biographical Sketches by E. Tucker A. L. Klingman, 1882, page 215.

[14] Ibid

[15] The Historical Oregonian, Oct. 10, 1910, page 8. Findagrave.com

[16] The Historical Oregonian, Oct 10, 1910, p. 11. Findagrave.com

[17] Proceedings of the Grand Lodge A.F.& A.M.of Oregon June 1900, pages 140-141.

[18] “Masonic Records of the Oregon Scottish Rite”, biographical sketch of J.M. Hodson by Seth L. Pope, dated Jan. 1903.

About the editor of this essay:

Michael D. Robinson 32° KSA, was the second Master Mason Raised in Esoterika Lodge #227, and the first member Raised in that Lodge to serve as Worshipful Master. He was elected Master in 2013 and 2014, and currently serves as Chaplin for that Lodge. Brother Robinson was appointed Historian for the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite Orient of Oregon in December of 2014, and Secretary of the Eugene Valley in March of 2015. He also serves as Historian for Research Lodge #198 and Eugene Lodge #11. He is the recipient of the “Novus Astorum” from the Scottish Rite in 2010, and the Hiram Award from Esoterika Lodge in 2012.

Brother Robinson has a degree in History from Colorado State University, class of 1982,

Some Early Oregon Scottish Rite History (Part 2)

Posted on June 25, 2015

This is part 2 of “Some Early Oregon Scottish Rite History“. If you are interested in reading part 1 click the link: http://bit.ly/1FDpsMP

Click on any of the pictures to enlarge

Early in the spring of 1880, I knocked at the door of Portland Lodge No. 55 and two years later was received into full fellowship in the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite. My early Masonic affiliation was with these pathfinders of the West. From these men who stood high in the country’s development and who taught by practice and example the great lessons of life, I learned many and valuable lessons.

The Oregon country was settled by a super type of empire builders from the East and great middle West. This vast territory .afterwards became the states of Oregon, Washington and Idaho. As the country developed, as the gospel of good government, hard work and self denial was spread among the hardy toilers of the West, this vast country grew in importance, and became the land of promise. The light of a new day dawned; that light shed its benevolent rays over these hills and valleys, mighty forests of inexhaustible

timber and navigable rivers flowing into the sea; new industries soon followed. The men and women who crossed the plains to this western El Dorado builded their churches and schools coincidentally with their homes and defended their families from attacks of the Indians who grew suspicious of these ambitious newcomers. These pioneers were not without

trials and vicissitudes. The call to new territory and to new prospects was a constant drain on their resources. The little colonies became at times depleted and discouraged by the constantly moving spirit of restless activity.

It was early in the fall of 1886 that a meeting of Oregon Lodge of Perfection was called to discuss the advisability of surrendering its charter and disbanding the Order because of discouragement and many other problems. Dissolution seemed imminent.

This meeting was called in the old Masonic Temple at the corner of Third and Alder streets. A general invitation was extended to the brethren of the Rite throughout the Jurisdiction. The meeting was well attended considering the size of the membership. A full discussion followed relative to the standing of the order, its vicissitudes and discouragements. After fully bringing forth the reasons for asking for dissolution it was decided to pass the hat in order that sufficient funds might be secured to pay off the debts of the order before disbanding.

It was evident that lack of money was not the reason for wishing to disband for the brethren responded splendidly to the request for funds with which to pay the indebtedness. It seemed rather strange with such a financial response, that the brethren should be so apathetic about personal effort in saving the very life blood of the order.

A visiting brother, in the government service, supervising the establishment of the Chemawa Indian School at Salem, whose name I have unfortunately forgotten, was largely responsible for saving the charter of the Oregon bodies. It was his counsel and impassioned appeal that turned the tide. He declared that the brethren knew not what they were doing in abandoning this Temple of Philosophy to the tender mercies of the profane. “Man is a builder,” he said, and as he builds, he builds also a Temple, a City or a civilization. He also builds habits, character and destiny;

Your great work here is only begun; to leave the unfinished Temple, so auspiciously begun, would make you false to yourself, your brethren and to God.”

After continued discussion it was suggested by Brother Withington that Brother Malcolm, then fresh from his achievements in Australia, be asked to take over the direction of the bodies. He finally consented to do so provided he could have full control of the bodies and not be hampered by any committees or delegations. He also wished to have exclusive power to appoint his officers; in other words to be given a free hand until such time as he was ready to report.

It was the only light that had shown through the darkness and the brethren were enthusiastic in accepting Brother Malcolm’s proposition. Full power was delegated to him by this committee to proceed along the lines he had indicated. Following this general line of procedure Brother Malcolm appointed David S. Tuthill, Senior Warden, Louis G. Clarke, Junior Warden, Edward Withington, Master of Ceremonies, and Gustav Wilson, Tyler.

Brother Malcolm at once proceeded to rejuvenate the conditions, establishing the same officers in the various degrees that were then to be worked, namely the Fourteenth, Eighteenth, Thirtieth and Thirty-second. Of these officers chosen by Brother Malcolm, all have passed on except the writer.

The brethren entered upon their new duties with vim and determination and from that hour the bodies had a full quota of applications for membership. Two years elapsed from the time the novitiate received his first degree until the Thirty-second could be conferred upon him.

Invitations were extended to the brethren at this time, in a well and courteously directed letter to unite with the bodies. These letters usually brought forth the desired favorable reply, so highly did the brethren regard such an invitation to join the Scottish Rite Bodies at this time.

Our membership was enthusiastic and progressive. I have never seen the degrees exemplified in better form than in the old Temple at Third and Alder streets. It was during Grand Commander Caswell’s visit to the coast in 1895 that he reviewed the work of the Oregon Bodies and pronounced it “most excellent,” declaring that the Oregon Bodies were doing the finest work in the jurisdiction at that time.

All degree work was done from the floor. We had no stage and very little paraphernalia with which to bring out the beauties of the various degrees. The membership of the bodies at that time was approximately one hundred

In 1891 we moved to the old Marquam building on the 8^th floor, fitting up new quarters and adding much paraphernalia. This forward step brought us even more inquiries for membership and at no time in the early growth of our order were we hampered for initiates. We selected our own members and were indeed careful as to the character and standing of the men who we were to unite with us in this new and great organization.

By 1895 the order had grown to more than 250. The attendance was splendid and we began to feel the want of more room and better facilities. A resolution to build a new Temple met with much opposition, but finally carried, some of the older members declared that breakers were ahead, but these good brethren soon fell into line, got under the proposition and boosted for the new Temple which now occupies the southwest corner of Lownsdale and Morrison streets.

In 1902 ground was purchased for the new Temple at Morrison and Lownsdale streets. The lot, 100 x 120, was purchased for $ 18,000. That location was considered to be in the residential part of the city. Plans for the new Temple were designed and the building erected by Architect Richard Martin 33° in 1903. The bond issue to cover the cost was absorbed by the brethren. It has long since been retired. The Temple covers the entire ground and is now the home of the Portland Scottish Rite Bodies exclusively. The auditorium has a seating capacity of fifteen hundred and is one of the most attractive in the city.

The pipe organ, built by the Eolian Company for the Lewis and Clark Exposition, 1905, was purchased by the Rite at a cost approximately $10,000. It was made possible largely by the personal contributions of the brethren. The scenery and stage settings were the work

of William Grabaugh 32°, who gave much time and study to the work. The art treasures are very valuable. The social hall is attractive and commodious, the executive quarters of the bodies are domiciled here with Brother B. H. Nicoll 33° as the efficient secretary. For nearly two score years he has called the brethren to labor.

Oregon Consistory was chartered March 20, 1891. The incorporators were P. S. Malcolm 33° D. D. Tuthill 33° and Louis G. Clarke 33°.

The visit of Grand Commander Albert Pike to Oregon in June, 1890, was a memorable occasion. The influence of his presence was inspiring and abiding. A banquet was given in his honor by the brethren of the rite, in Louis Eppinger’s restaurant, at First and Ankeny streets. The writer remembers well the inspiring words of wisdom that fell from the speaker’s lips. This was his second visit to Oregon. His first visit was in the late 1878 or early in 1880, when he conferred the Fourth and Fifth degrees on about twelve brethren at the old Temple.

No one could know Brother Pike without loving and venerating him as a man and Mason. My contact with him was one of the outstanding features of my Masonic career. More than any other event of my life was the inspiration he gave me to further effort in the great cause of Freemasonry. Albert Pike died in 1891.

“To the past go more dead faces,

every year,

As the loved leave vacant places,

every year;

Everywhere the sad eyes meet us

In the evening’s dusk they greet us

And to come to them entreat us

every year.”

In the year 1894 it was suggested by some of the members that the Inspectors General in Oregon meet for dinner on the anniversary of Albert Pike’s birthday, spend the evening together and so bring the members into closer union and further cement the ties of friendship and fraternity. At this first meeting there were present Brothers McCracken, Pratt, Malcolm, Roberts, Foster, Withington, Tuthill and Clarke, all of whom have passed on except the writer. These meetings have been zealously observed ever since. Now there are thirty-two Inspectors General about the table.

Our Oregon Bodies now number about five thousand active, harmonious workers in the great and glorious cause of Scottish Rite Masonry. We are peacefully domiciled in our Temple. Over the threshold of its protecting dome no dissension or discord has ever crossed.

In addition to the present Temple in Portland, we have a Consistory, Chapter of Rose Croix, Council and Lodge of Perfection in Eugene; Consistory, Chapter of Rose Croix. Council and

Lodge of Perfection in Baker; Lodge of Perfection and Chapter of Rose Croix in Roseburg; Lodge of Perfection and Chapter of Rose Croix in Marshfield; Lodge of Perfection and Chapter of Rose Croix in Medford, and Lodge of Perfection in Salem. The bodies are all prosperous and progressive.

The spiritual altars of Scottish Rite Masonry that were builded in the hearts and consciences of these sturdy western pioneers of the Rite and dedicated to the God of their fathers, continue to illuminate the horizon though their builders have long since passed the portals to their reward.

“But the truer life draws nigher.

every year,

And its morning star climbs higher,

every year;

Earth’s hold on us grows slighter,

And the heavenly burden lighter,

And the dawn immortal brighter,

Every year.”

* • *

EDITOR’S NOTE: This most interesting historic review of Scottish Rite Masonry in Oregon, by our Illustrious Bro. Clarke 33°, is the only authentic record of the Rite available. Brother Clarke is the surviving member of that noble band of Scottish Rite pioneers who paved the way for those who were to follow . By their perseverance and faith in the belief in the Grand Architect of The Universe.

We have today this magnificent Scottish Rite organization throughout the state numbering among its membership leading citizens of the community. We will never be able to repay them for their gift to Masonry in material things but we can by virtuous lives and kindness to our fellow man, at least show our appreciation to them for having kept alive that flickering spark amidst the wilderness, that has become one of the leading states of the Pacific slope.

To know Brother Clarke, is to love him. We cherish his friendship among our most valued possessions. The spirit that surrounds him in his everyday walk of life is of that noble type which endears him to all who meet him at first sight. Scottish Rite Masonry is indeed fortunate to have him as its leader.

About the editor of this essay:

Michael D. Robinson 32° KSA, was the second Master Mason Raised in Esoterika Lodge #227, and the first member Raised in that Lodge to serve as Worshipful Master. He was elected Master in 2013 and 2014, and currently serves as Chaplin for that Lodge. Brother Robinson was appointed Historian for the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite Orient of Oregon in December of 2014, and Secretary of the Eugene Valley in March of 2015. He also serves as Historian for Research Lodge #198 and Eugene Lodge #11. He is the recipient of the “Novus Astorum” from the Scottish Rite in 2010, and the Hiram Award from Esoterika Lodge in 2012.

Brother Robinson has a degree in History from Colorado State University, class of 1982, and is a Historian, Genealogist, Certified Vertebrologist, Artist, Craftsman and Bishop Emeritus of the Essene Church.

Wallace McCamant Bio

Posted on April 16, 2015

Wallace McCamant

Was born at Hollidaysburg, Blair, Pennsylvania on September 22, 1867, “he is descended on his father’s side in the fifth generation from Alexander McCamant who emigrated from County Down Ireland about 1725 and who lived the last two years of his life in Salisbury Township Lancaster County Pennsylvania. On his mother’s side he is descended in the eighth generation from James Rollins (sometimes spelled Rawlins) who emigrated from Cornwall England in 1632 and located in New Hampshire. He is the son of Thomas McCamant who was Auditor General of Pennsylvania from 1888 to 1892.”^[1] Wallace McCamant was the president of the Portland chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution in 1909 claiming his heritage in 1892 through his great-great grandfather James Graham, whose daughter Abigail married James McCamant. James Graham served in Col. Irwin’s Pennsylvania Regiment. He also claimed membership through his mother Delia Rollins’ grandfather Eliphalet Rollins.^[2] Eliphalet was born in 1758 and enlisted in the island town of New Castle, New Hampshire. New Castle is the home of Fort William and Mary which “was the site of one of the first acts of the American Revolution. On the afternoon of December 14, 1774, colonists arrived aboard gundalows (sailing barges) and raided the fort. Severely outnumbered, Captain John Cochran and the fort’s five soldiers surrendered, whereupon the rebels loaded onto a boat 100 barrels of gunpowder. The boat was floated up the Piscataqua River and the powder offloaded for transport to inland towns, including Durham, where the ammunition was stored in the cellar of the Congregational Church. The next day, the colonists returned to the fort and removed 16 of the lighter cannon and all small arms. The gunpowder was used at the 1775 Battle of Bunker Hill.”^[3] In addition to being president of his local chapter, Bro. McCamant was President of the Chapter for the state of Oregon and also served as the National President General from 1921 until 1922.

“He received his early education at the public schools of Harrisburg, Dauphin, Pennsylvania, and graduated from the Harrisburg High School in 1884 and spent one year at the Harrisburg Academy at the same place. He entered Lafayette College in 1885 and graduated in 1888 with the degree of Ph. B,”^[4] he was valedictorian of his class.

“He read law at Lancaster Pennsylvania with Messrs Brown and Hensel. Mr. Hensel has since been Attorney General of the State of Pennsylvania and Mr. Brown is now one of the Justices of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania. Brother McCamant first came to Portland on the 30^th of September 1890 and located in Portland for the practice of Law on the 14^th of November 1890, he was employed as a law clerk by the firm of Gilbert and Snow; the junior member of the firm was appointed United States Circuit Judge on the 1^st of April 1892 and on the first of September 1892 our brother became the law partner of Zera Snow and the partnership relationship continues to the present time.”^[5] (1912)

He married Katherine S. Davis, April 25, 1893 in Phillipsburg, New Jersey and had two sons; Davis born on July 24, 1896, and Thomas born Dec. 7, 1901, both in Portland. Katherine was born in Easton, Pennsylvania on September 5, 1867. In 1899 Wallace built the McCamant family home at 236 King Street in which he resided until his death.

During the construction period of the Columbia Southern Railway and the Pacific Railway and Navigation Company lines he was general attorney for these companies. He has also been attorney for Wells Fargo Company on its express business in the States of Oregon and Washington for fifteen years last past. He is Attorney for the International Mortgage Bank of Appledorn Holland^[6] During his private legal career McCamant appeared before the United States Supreme Court in Ross v. State of Oregon, 227 US 150 (1913).

He is by political conviction a republican and has been exceedingly active in work for the republican party. He took the Stump for Benjamin Harrison in the campaign of 1888 and has Stumped for every republican candidate for President from that date to the present time. He was a delegate to the Republican State Convention for Oregon in 1892, 1894, 1896, 1898 and 1900. He was a delegate to the Republican National Convention in 1896 and 1900. “On January 8, 1917, McCamant was appointed to the Oregon Supreme Court to replace Robert Eakin by Oregon Governor James Withycombe. Eighteen months later, McCamant resigned on June 4, 1918 and was replaced by Charles A. Johns.

In May 1925, President Coolidge appointed McCamant to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals while the Senate was in recess. However, when the Senate reconvened he was not confirmed and his time on the federal bench ended in May 1926. The lack of confirmation is partly due to McCamant’s support for Coolidge over Senator Hiram Johnson at the 1920 Republican Convention to select the Vice-Presidential nominee from the party. McCamant had been the delegate who first moved for the nomination of Coolidge after the Republican leadership had moved for and seconded Senator Irvine Lenroot of Wisconsin, which resulted in Coolidge’s ascension to the Presidency upon Warren G. Harding’s death. (McCamant was given credit for nominating Coolidge having read the nominating speech written by the Chairman of the Oregon Delegation John L. Rand, who had a sore throat.^[7]) With the Senate not confirming McCamant, he became the first recess appointment to a United States Court of Appeals not to be confirmed by the United States Senate.”^[8] He served as a justice of the State Supreme Court, on the federal circuit bench, and was master in Chancery of the U.S. District Court for 23 years.^[9] He was a member of the Federal Commission and Chairman of the Oregon Commission for the celebration of the Washington Bi-Centennial.^[10] In 1922, he dedicated the Theodore Roosevelt Rough Rider statue in Portland’s South Park Blocks.

He was a member of the Arlington University and Waverly Golf clubs. He was also a member of the Oregon Commandry of the Loyal Legion, also of the National Scotch Irish Society, the American Bar Association and the Oregon Bar Association. He has done considerable occasional Speaking and one of his addresses has been published in “Shurler’s American Oratory”.^[11] He was also widely known as an author and historian.^[12]

On Sept 17, 1936 Wallace and Katherine McCamant travelled across the Atlantic. They returned from Southampton, England on Nov. 27, 1936 on the S.S. “New York” arriving in New York City on Dec. 4, 1936.^[13]

Masonic Service

Brother McCamant was Raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason in Willamette Lodge No. 2, between January and May of 1902. Brother McCamant was appointed Junior Deacon in 1903. He did not serve as an officer in Willamette Lodge between 1904 and 1920, after that it is unclear since the member rosters were no longer included in the Proceedings. As it is required that the Master of a Lodge serve at least one year as a Warden, he may have served as such between 1921 and 1931.

Much of his Masonic attention was directed towards the Scottish Rite. He attended the Scottish Rite Reunion in June of 1903 and was a member of the 1^st Cathedral Class to receive their Degrees in the new Scottish Rite Temple at Lownsdale (15^th) and Morrison. By the end of the year 1903 Brother McCamant became the Wise Master of Ainsworth Chapter Rose Croix No. 1, also playing that role in the 18th° at the Reunions. He continued in that position until 1936. He was the 39^th Inspector General of Oregon, being made a 33° Honorary on January 24, 1912.^[14] For his many years of faithful service Illustrious Brother McCamant was awarded the Scottish Rite Grand Cross of the Court of Honor on October 17, 1933.

He served as Grand Orator in 1926 under the Grand Master Edgar H. Sensenich. He was a Charter Member and the first Master of Research Lodge of Oregon No. 198, in 1932. Brother McCamant was made Master of the Lodge in January of 1932 serving half his term while under Dispensation, and the other half after receiving the Charter in June of the same year. He did not hold office again in Research Lodge.^[15]

On December 17, 1944, Wallace McCamant died and was buried at River View Cemetery in Portland.^[16]

The “Oregon Mason” reported the following:

Oregon Mason JANUARY 1945 Vol. XXIII – No. 1 page 44.

PORTLAND lost one of its most distinguished Masons with the death Dec. 17 of Wallace McCamant, 33° and Grand Cross of the Court of Honor. Brother McCamant served 33 years as Wise Master of Ainsworth Chapter, Knight Rose Croix; a service unequalled in the history of the Portland Scottish Rite Bodies. He was one of three Oregon Masons ever to receive the Grand Cross of the Court of Honor, one of the highest honors in the Scottish Rite and one infrequently bestowed, The others in Oregon to be Similarly honored were Philip Schuyler Malcolm and Louis Gaylord Clarke, each of whom served as Sovereign Grand Inspector General in Oregon, It is believed that in no other state has more than one person been similarly honored. Brother McCamant, member of Willamette Lodge, was charter Master of Research Lodge of Oregon. He was a member of Sunnyside Chapter, RAM, and Washington Council, R&SM, also a Noble of Al Kader Shrine Temple.

Brother McCamant for many years took an active interest in politics. He was a friend of Governor Calvin Coolidge and by his unexpected nomination of Mr. Coolidge for the vice presidency probably was responsible for Mr. Coolidge’s later succession to the presidency.

President Coolidge showed his gratitude by appointing Brother McCamant to the U.S. circuit court in this district but the recess appointment was later refused confirmation by the senate because of objection by Senator Johnson of California, who was offended by Brother McCamant’s forthrightness, Brother McCamant served as associate justice of the Oregon supreme court in 1917 -1918. Funeral services were held in the Scottish Rite Temple. Dr. Paul S. Wright of the First Presbyterian, and Franklin C, Howell, 33° and past WM of Ainsworth Chapter Rose Croix, officiated. Part of the Scripture reading was from a book which Brother McCamant had always with him. Brother Howell had been a close legal and Masonic friend over a long period of years.

[1] Masonic Records of the Scottish Rite of Oregon, 39^th Inspector General Wallace McCamant. By Braydon Nicoll SR Historian recorded Dec. 20, 1912.

[2] U.S. Society of the Sons of the American Revolution membership applications Ancestry.com

[3] Coolidge, Austin J.; John B. Mansfield (1859). A History and Description of New England. Boston, Massachusetts. pp. 594–596

[4] Arthur F. Benson’s Original Biography Document State of Oregon Law Library

http://www.oregon.gov/SOLL/Pages/ojd_historyjustice_biographies/w_mccamant_bio.aspx

[5] Masonic Records of the Scottish Rite of Oregon, 39^th Inspector General Wallace McCamant. Dec. 20^th 1912 B.H. Nicoll Historian

[6] Apeldoorn, Gelderland, Netherlands (Holland)

[7] Captial Journal Dec. 18, 1960

[8] Wikipedia Free Encyclopedia Wallace McCamant

[9] Captial Journal Dec. 18, 1960

[10] Arthur F. Benson’s Original Biography Document State of Oregon Law Library

[11] Wikipedia Free Encyclopedia Wallace McCamant

[12] Captial Journal Dec. 18, 1960

[13] New York Passenger Lists 1820-1957.

[14] Masonic Records of the Scottish Rite of Oregon Dec. 20^th 1912 B.H. Nicoll Historian

[15] Masonic Papers Vol. I, Research Lodge No. 198 of Oregon pub. 1935

[16] Wikipedia Free Encyclopedia Wallace McCamant

About the author of this essay:

Michael D. Robinson 32° KSA, was the second Master Mason Raised in Esoterika Lodge #227, and the first member Raised in that Lodge to serve as Worshipful Master. He was elected Master in 2013 and 2014, and currently serves as Chaplin for that Lodge. Brother Robinson was appointed Historian for the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite Orient of Oregon in December of 2014, and Secretary of the Eugene Valley in March of 2015. He also serves as Historian for Research Lodge #198 and Eugene Lodge #11. He is the recipient of the “Novus Astorum” from the Scottish Rite in 2010, and the Hiram Award from Esoterika Lodge in 2012.

A Historic Portland Valley Scottish Rite Brother

Posted on March 14, 2015

Brethren,

As the newly appointed Historian for the Scottish Rite Orient of Oregon, I have been given the opportunity to provide you with some of the history of our great organization. These are the stories of the men and incidents which helped establish and grow the Scottish Rite in Oregon. There are many places where this project could be started, but as this biography was the most recent put together we will begin here. Let me introduce you to Ill. Bro. Richard Martin, Jr. the architect of the magnificent edifice which is home to the Portland Valley Scottish Rite. Brother Martin designed and oversaw the construction of the Scottish Rite Cathedral found on 15^th and Morrison St. in Portland. This was the first Scottish Rite Temple built in the United States solely for Scottish Rite functions and purposes and in its day was the largest of it sort. (Special thanks to Bro. Nate Neff 32° KSA, for inspiring the search and locating some of the key information relating to Bro. Martin’s work as an architect, which led to this biography.)

50^th Inspector General

Richard Henry Martin Jr. was born in Penzance, Cornwall, England on July 23, 1858 and was the first of six known children born to Richard Martin, Sr. and his wife Hannah Rogers. Richard Sr. was born August 17, 1834 in Liverpool, England and Hannah Rogers was born in England on June 24, 1835. The couple married March 13, 1858 in Cornwall. Richard Jr. was technically Richard IV, his father, grandfather and great-grandfather all having been named Richard. His father, Richard Martin Sr. was a builder and stonemason. On May 15, 1874, when he was yet 15 years of age, Richard Jr. left Penzance with his family and immigrated to America. They set sail from Liverpool on the S.S. Baltic[1] arriving in Portland, Oregon on June 10, 1874, as noted in a diary he wrote of the trip. By 1880 the family was living at 425 West Park in Portland; Richard Sr. was listed as a Stonemason, and his 21 year old son Richard Jr. as an Architect.[2] Richard Martin Jr. was made a Naturalized citizen of the United States, in Portland, Oregon on December 7, 1891. Richard applied for a Passport on March 28, 1912 and was described as being 5 ft. 8 in. tall, with light hair and blue eyes.

Richard Martin, Jr. married in 1896 to Hattie L. Houghton, who was born in 1873. Her father was Canadian and her mother was born in England. The couple had a son Richard H. Martin (V) born in 1899. In 1910 they lived at 455 Hassalo St. in Portland, on the east side of the river, and had a live in servant, a 19 year old Swedish girl named Ellen Erickson.[3]

“McCaw, Martin & White was a prominent architectural firm active in Portland at the end of the nineteenth century. It was responsible for some of the most substantial Romanesque-style buildings in Oregon, some of which are still extant.”

“Martin worked as a draughtsman in the office of Warren H. Williams until Williams’ death in 1888. From 1888 until his association with McCaw, Martin worked in partnership with Alexander M. Milwain. In 1888, he designed the Pacific Northwest Industrial Exposition Building. This exhibition hall, the largest such structure on the West Coast when it was built, burned in 1910.

In late 1888 or early 1889, the McCaw & Martin professional partnership was formed. Frederick Manson White joined the firm in 1889 as a draftsman, and from July 1891 to June 1892 he was a full partner in McCaw, Martin & White. Among their early works, the University of Portland’s West Hall (now Waldschmidt Hall) of 1891 shows Richardson’s influence; it has strong similarities with Richardson’s Sever Hall at Harvard University (1878). Other distinctive works include the First Regiment Armory Annex (1891) in Portland, now called the Gerding Theater, an award-winning example of sustainable adaptive redesign.

Completed in 1892, the Portland home of Dr. Kenneth A.J. Mackenzie—a founder and dean of the University of Oregon’s Medical School (now Oregon Health Sciences University)—demonstrates the firm’s expertise in residential design. Perhaps their masterwork is the Dekum Building of 1892, a Portland landmark distinguished by distinctive stonework, elaborate carvings, and colorful masonry.

In 1897, McCaw moved to San Francisco, where he joined prominent architect William Curlett to form Curlett & McCaw, a firm that lasted until 1901. Meanwhile, Martin continued to practice in Portland, where he designed several significant buildings, including the Scottish Rite Center (1902), the Masonic Temple (1907), and the home of philanthropist Dr. Henry Waldo Coe (1906, destroyed). He also designed the Albert Sholes House in Cornelius, Oregon (1909).”[4] He passed to the Celestial Lodge November 6, 1950.“[5]

Masonic Service

Blue Lodge:

Richard Martin, Jr. was Initiated, Passed and Raised in Harmony Lodge between May 1889 and May 1890, being a MM by the time of the 1890 Communication. He most likely went through the degrees between June and Dec. 1889. Bro. Martin was Senior Warden in 1892 and Worshipful Master in 1893.[6]

Scottish Rite:

“He joined the Scottish Rite in 1892, was made a K.C.C.H. in 1905 and coroneted a 33°, I.G.H. January 17, 1920. He was Senior Warden of Ainsworth Chapter of Rose Croix 40 years.[7]

He was a Mason for 61 years and died at the age of 92. At the time of his death he was the oldest living Scottish Rite Mason in Oregon. He was buried in the Camellia Corridor Mausoleum at Lincoln Memorial Park, alongside his wife Hattie who died in 1942.[8]

[1] U.S. Passport applications for Richard Martin Jr. 1912

[2] U.S. Federal Census 1880, Portland Oregon

[3] U.S. Federal Census 1910, Portland, Multnomah, Oregon, Ward 9, Precinct 69, District 0212.

[4] The Oregon Encyclopedia, a project of the Oregon Historical Society http://www.oregonencyclopedia.org/articles/mccaw_martin_white_architects/#.vpptqvnf-sp

[5] History of the Scottish Rite in Oregon 1992

[6] Oregon Grand Lodge Proceedings 1888-1904

[7] He was found in the position by 1904.

[8] Find a Grave

About the author of this essay:

Michael D. Robinson 32° KSA, was the second Master Mason Raised in Esoterika Lodge #227, and the first member Raised in that Lodge to serve as Worshipful Master. He was elected Master in 2013 and 2014, and currently serves as Chaplin for that Lodge. Brother Robinson was appointed Historian for the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite Orient of Oregon in December of 2014, and Secretary of the Eugene Valley in March of 2015. He also serves as Historian for Research Lodge #198 and Eugene Lodge #11. He is the recipient of the “Novus Astorum” from the Scottish Rite in 2010, and the Hiram Award from Esoterika Lodge in 2012.

Portland Valley Scottish Rite News Blast May 25thth, 2014

Posted on May 25, 2014

Brothers, The offices of the Portland Valley will be closed on Monday May 26th, in observance of Memorial Day.

On Tuesday May 27th the Portland Valley will install the remaining Officers who couldn’t attend the original Officer’s Installation. This will be followed by a review and discussion of the 19th Degree. Dinner will take place at approximately 6 pm. The Dinner for Tuesday will be MAC & Cheese/Potato Salad/Garden salad/roll and Desert.

PLEASE CALL AHEAD FOR DINNER RESERVATIONS

Please review the article on our recent change in hat storage. Thanks to Michael Robinson, 32° for cleaning all the hat lockers; assigning new places for all the hats and taking an inventory of all remaining hats. It’s a job that should have been done decades ago, but no one wanted to “tackle it”.

05/27- Officer Elections Installation. Review/Discussion 19th Degree
06/3- Awards Ceremony

WHY MEMORIAL DAY IS OBSERVERED

Early Observances of Memorial Day

The Civil War claimed more lives than any conflict in U.S. history, requiring the establishment of the country’s first national cemeteries. By the late 1860s Americans in various towns and cities had begun holding springtime tributes to these countless fallen soldiers, decorating their graves with flowers and reciting prayers.

Did You Know?

Each year on Memorial Day a national moment of remembrance takes place at 3:00 p.m. local time.

It is unclear where exactly this tradition originated; numerous different communities may have independently initiated the memorial gatherings. Nevertheless, in 1966 the federal government declared Waterloo, New York, the official birthplace of Memorial Day. Waterloo-which had first celebrated the day on May 5, 1866-was chosen because it hosted an annual, community-wide event, during which businesses closed and residents decorated the graves of soldiers with flowers and flags.

Decoration Day

On May 5, 1862, General John A. Logan, leader of an organization for Northern Civil War veterans, called for a nationwide day of remembrance later that month. “The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village and hamlet churchyard in the land,” he proclaimed. The date of Decoration Day, as he called it, was chosen because it wasn’t the anniversary of any particular battle.

On the first Decoration Day, General James Garfield made a speech at Arlington National Cemetery, and 5,000 participants decorated the graves of the 20,000 Union and Confederate soldiers buried there. Many Northern states held similar commemorative events and reprised the tradition in subsequent years; by 1890 each one had made Decoration Day an official state holiday. Many Southern states, on the other hand, continued to honor their dead on separate days until after World War I.

Evolution of Memorial Day

Memorial Day, as Decoration Day gradually came to be known, originally honored only those lost while fighting in the Civil War. But during World War I the United States found itself embroiled in another major conflict, and the holiday evolved to commemorate American military personnel who died in all wars.

For decades, Memorial Day continued to be observed on May 30, the date Logan had selected for the first Decoration Day. But in 1968 Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which established Memorial Day as the last Monday in May in order to create a three-day weekend for federal employees; the change went into effect in 1971. The same law also declared Memorial Day a federal holiday.

Memorial Day Traditions

Cities and towns across the United States host Memorial Day parades each year, often incorporating military personnel and members of veterans’ organizations. Some of the largest parades take place in Chicago, New York and Washington, D.C. Americans also observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries and memorials. On a less somber note, many people throw parties and barbecues on the holiday, perhaps because it unofficially marks the beginning of summer.

ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETARY

ARLINGTON, Va. – It was a simple but meaningful process repeated on hallowed ground about 220,000 times on Thursday: Toe of the combat boot placed against the center of a headstone, flag planted at the heel.

With that small gesture, about 1,000 soldiers paid respects as they fanned out at Arlington National Cemetery ahead of Memorial Day weekend, each pausing to stake an American flag into the soil of each grave to honor those buried there.

“They’ve given the ultimate sacrifice for their country,” said. Pvt. Juan Garcia. “We wouldn’t be able to live the lifestyle that the entire country does if it wasn’t for the men and women we’re honoring today. “It’s not something that should be taken lightly. It’s an actual person that died. That’s someone’s brother, someone’s sister, someone’s mom or dad.”

The participating soldiers were all members of the Old Guard. The event is known as the “Flags In” ceremony and has taken place annually since 1948, when the Old Guard was designated as the Army’s ceremonial unit.

The soldiers also placed flags at the cemetery’s columbarium, which holds cremated remains. Four flags were also placed at the Tomb of the Unknowns.

The flags will remain throughout the holiday weekend until Tuesday.

And despite the holiday usually being celebrated with cookouts, Staff Sgt. Francisco Armenta said he hoped that everyone would take a minute to remember those who have sacrificed their lives. “It’s not just for barbecues, beaches, anything like that,” Armenta said. “It’s to remember the soldiers that fell in the past.”

HAT STORAGE – Michael Robinson, 32°

Upon completion it was found that there were 1120 slots in 80 lockers, about 350 hats were removed and about 266 were left. With permission of the PR on April 10-11, 2014 all hats were relocated. Lists were placed on the outside of each locker to help members find their hats. Everything was placed in alphabetical order and each shelf inside was labeled.

Each locker was filled halfway and we still filled less than half of the lockers. The bottom 3 slots in each locker were let empty as they gather the most dust and are difficult to access. We now are using lockers 1-43 on the south and west sides. The north side is empty and the east side houses available hats. Lockers 66 – 79 have hats in boxes labeled and in order by size. Lockers 80-82 have KCCH, 33rd and 50 year hats

Attention: After a thorough cleaning and purging of the metal hat lockers, all hats have been moved to lockers 1-43 on the south and west sides. Each locker has a list on the front of which hats are in it. Everything is in alphabetical order and each shelf is labeled. Find your name on the list open the locker and your hat should be on the shelf above your name. A list will be in the office as well. My apologies for any inconvenience, and to those who discovered the change before this notice was given. ***Any problems contact Michael Robinson at sleepingdragon777@yahoo.com

I have about 200 hats to still sort through and will maintain the list and lockers as best I am able. I have included the most updated list of locker assignments. Also included is a list of all the hats that were taken out. Although I have already given some hats out I will try to note who is given what hats in case a problem arises. If someone’s hat was removed by mistake I will make every attempt to recover it and if needed replace it.

Fraternally Michael D. Robinson 32° KSA

Remember to make reservations for dinners by calling the office (By 10 am on the Friday before the event) (503)226-7827 or e-mailing Officemanager@PortlandSR.com

Dear Brothers, please take note of the new email addresses for the Portland Valley Business Workgroup.

PR@portlandsr.com (Brian McDowell) Portland Valley Personal Representative
clarktrust@portlandsr.com (Eric Gazow) Clark Trust
orientcfo@portlandsr.com (Eric Gazow) Orient of Oregon CFO
treasurer@portlandsr.com (Larry Roberts) Treasurer Portland Valley
blog@portlandsr.com (Larry Roberts) Blog Administrator
buildingmanager@portlandsr.com (Michael Shebora) Portland Building Manager
officemanager@portlandsr.com (Patrick Knowles) Portland Office Manager
secretary@portlandsr.com (Rick Komraus) Portland General Secretary
exc.director@portlandsr.com (Walt Johnson) Executive Director for the Orient of Oregon
orientpr@portlandsr.com (Warren Gray) Orient of Oregon Personal Representative