Mount Moriah History from 1853 to 1978

1896
W.M. - Charles 0. Anderson

S.W. - George H. Quimby

J.W. - Ira C. Leedom
The Junior Warden, Brother Leedom, who was a physician, reported calling upon a sick Brother of Trenton Lodge No. 5. This Brother was living alone on a small farm nearby, and was in very feeble condition. Trenton Lodge was so advised, and took care of the matter.
The By-Laws were revised in September.
On November 19^th, there were present the Deputy Grand Master, Brother Josiah W.

Ewan, Junior Grand Warden, Brother W. Holt Apgar, and the District Deputy

Grand Master, Brother William F. Burk. At this time a letter to the Lodge from our Grand Master, George W. Fortmeyer was read:
“Know ye, that having received a communication from Worshipful Brother Charles 0. Anderson, stating that rumors are being circulated reflecting upon the personal character and derogatory to his standing as a Mason and which seriously impairs his usefulness in the discharge of the duties of his office.
“Now therefore, I, George W. Fortmeyer, Grand Master of Masons of the State of New Jersey, at the request of the said Charles 0. Anderson, hereby authorize our well beloved Brother, Right Worshipful Josiah W. Ewan, to attend a Communication of Mount Moriah Lodge, at which the Brethren of the Lodge shall be regularly summoned and suspend from the office of Worshipful Master the said Charles 0. Anderson, and further, to place Brother George H. Quimby, Senior Warden, in office as Worshipful Master pro tem and transfer the warrant of said Lodge to his custody and safe keeping.” (All of which was done.)
Deputy Grand Master Ewan stated that he, with the assistance of Brother Apgar, and Brother Burk, would proceed at a very early date to investigate the rumors referred to. Seven members of Mount Moriah were then appointed to assist them. This group was empowered to summon witnesses who might be able to throw light on the subject and to appear at a meeting to be held November 25^th, after closing of Lodge. The minutes of that night show Brother Ewan was present, but there is no record of what was done. A month later the Grand Master stated, “Not deeming it advisable at the present to remove the suspension and pending final disposition of the case.” He directed Brother Ewan to appear at the Annual Communication and preside to install officers.
In January 1900, the Lodge voted to present W. Brother Charles 0. Anderson with a Past Master’s jewel and apron, but the next month the action was rescinded.
1897
W.M. - George H. Quimby

S.W. - Ira C. Levdorn

J.W. - Harry W. Kunzi
The Lodge voted to donate to Brother Robert Fenton the sum of one dollar every month, for spending money, as long as he should live, and who was in the “Old Men’s Home” in Philadelphia. (He was recognized as one of only two charter members still surviving.)
The Officers collars were cleaned at cost of $1.80.
The Master reported that circulars fully detailing proposed establishment of a Masonic Home had been distributed to every member.
On November 10^th, a letter from the Grand Lodge Committee on the Masonic Home stated the desire to purchase a, ‘‘Property consisting of a considerable tract of land in complete order, with a large stone mansion in perfect repair and fully furnished, ready for immediate occupancy. Original cost about $125,000 and $17,000 spent upon it within the past two years - can be bought for $25,000 cash.”
The Lodge was urged to increase its present contribution of $137.50 to $272.00, which was regarded as a proper share (of the Lodge expense). The members voted to guarantee the necessary amount, and stated it would be paid by January 1, 1898.
On December 22^nd, word was received that the Burlington property had been purchased.
1898 - The Masonic Home Opens
W.M. - Ira C. Leedom

S.W. - Harry W. Kunz

J.W. - Harry Coundit
The Lodge authorized purchase of suitable bookcase for Lodge use, at a cost not to exceed $20.00. (One was bought for $16.00)
The Rules and Regulations for the Masonic Home were received. They were ordered framed and hung in Lodge Room.
An application for admission to the Home was made by a member.
The Lodge Secretary was, “Directed to procure four dozen lamb-skin aprons and a suitable tin box to keep them in, to prevent them from being destroyed by mice.”
Word was received that the Masonic Home would be dedicated on June 24, 1898 (St. John the Baptist Day), with appropriate Masonic ceremonies. All Brethren were urged to attend. A low railroad fare of 1/2 the usual rate, had been secured from all points in the State. Mount Moriah appointed a committee to make arrangements for local attendance, and announced that a tent would be set up on the grounds of the Home. A light lunch would be provided for all members and friends. (A contemporary report declares that convivial hospitality was indeed dispensed.)
A complaint was received from the Master of Burlington Lodge that stated our Lodge had been making Masons of material claimed to be in their jurisdiction, and without obtaining their consent. A Committee was appointed to deal with the problem of jurisdiction. The matter was amicably settled with the determination that Florence was in the jurisdiction of Burlington.
A Committee was appointed with power to purchase City Hall stock, advertised to be sold at Public Sale. The price to be paid was at the discretion of Committee. Subsequently, nine shares were purchased at $6.00 (per share).
A petition for membership was received from Richard C. Woodward. He was elected, entered, passed, and raised. Fourteen years later he was the Grand Master of New Jersey.
The, “Original written history of Mount Moriah Lodge by Past Deputy Grand Master Robert C. Buzby was presented to the Lodge by Brother Edward Clift, and was to be deposited with Lodge archives.”
A Committee was appointed to purchase a new organ. And they did so at a cost of $83.30. Of which, $30.00 was donated by the Committee (itself).
1899
W.M. - Harry W. Kunzi

S.W. - Harry Coundit

J.W. - Albert I. Wilkinson
Members voted to subscribe for telephone service, in connection with Chapter and Commandery. The phone was to be placed at head of stairs, so as to be convenient to both sides of the landing. The Lodge paid half of the cost, and Chapter & Commandery one quarter each.
There was no Communication on January 25^th, as officers were in attendance at exemplification of esoteric work by officers of the Grand Lodge.
Our old organ was presented to the Episcopal Mission.
Lodge members were very pleasantly entertained by a phonograph exhibition given by Brother Nevius.
Word was received that the Grand Lodge would hold an Emergent Communication at Trenton, for the purpose of taking action relative to making additional accommodations at the Masonic Home. This was necessary because present quarters were now fully occupied. At a later meeting, word was received that the Grand Lodge had levied a tax of $1.50 on all members, for the additional accommodations.
There was a vote of thanks to Brother Wilkinson and Brother Thompson for having rods of the Deacons and Stewards repainted, and stands made for the same, which they presented to the Lodge.
The telephone charge for one half year of service was $9.00.
On November 22^nd, Past Grand Master Leedom, presented a jewel to Right Worshipful William F. Burk, District Deputy Grand Master. This was for, “Advancing the interest of Freemasonry in his jurisdiction and especially in elevating standard of Mount Moriah Lodge to a high degree of perfection.”
1900
W.M. – Harry Coundit

S.W. - Albert I. Wilkinson

J.W. - Harry B. Ford
The Lodge voted to enroll in the Masonic Relief Association of United States and Canada. The enrollment fee was $1.47.
Members voted a subscription for a book to be published containing the name, number and location of every Masonic Lodge in the World, at a cost of $2.00.
The Secretary was directed to have extra doors placed at the outer and inner doors.
Twenty-five dollars was voted for the relief of the Galveston flood sufferers.
There was a funeral for Brother George W. Lippincott, who died in Stewartsville, N.J. The Lodge members, “Proceeded to the depot, and met the train from Stewartsville. Then proceeded by train to Yardville, and thence to Groveville M. E. Church, where religious services were held. And thence to the burial ground of the church, where Masonic services were performed, and then back to Bordentown by trolley. A vote of thanks extended to Bethlehem Lodge No. 140 for their kindness given to Brother Lippincott and also thanks to the undertaker from Stewartsville for the exceptional manner in striving to please and render assistance.”
At the Annual Communication, there was a vote to furnish one of the rooms at the Masonic Home, at a cost of $80.00. In the letter of acknowledgement, it said, “Room to be set apart and be known as Mount Moriah Lodge No. 28.”

1901
W.M. - Albert J. Wilkinson

S.W. - Harry B. Ford

J.W. - William W. Gaskill
According to an historical item published in 1932, Bordentown Council #570,

The Knights of Columbus was instituted on April 14, 1901. And it was recorded that the ceremonies took place in the Masonic Hall. However, our minutes show no reference to this occurrence. The meeting was undoubtedly held in the large assembly room on the second floor. It should be noted that the building in 1901, was still owned by the Hall Association, and not the Masonic Lodge.

In May, charges of un-Masonic conduct were preferred against a Brother of the Lodge. A Committee reported its findings in June, with the accused pleading not guilty. Counsel for the accuser then wished to withdraw the charges, but the Lodge would not permit them to be withdrawn. The Lodge members were summoned for the next meeting two weeks hence. At that time some discussion of technicalities regarding the ballot was taken on each of the four grades of punishment. All were in favor of the accused. The accused (Brother) then immediately applied for a demit, and it was promptly granted.
There was a letter from Grand Master warning against a number of spurious so-called Masonic Lodges which had been started in Philadelphia.
1902
W.M. - Harry B. Ford

S.W. - George W. Michalis

J.W. - Richard C. Woodward
The Holy Writings used for Masonic funerals were ordered to be put in better condition.
Five dollars was donated toward a testimonial for Right Worshipful Henry S. Haines to recognize his devoted service of 22 years as District Deputy Grand Master, and as Grand Instructor. (He served 20 more years as Grand Instructor and died in office at the age of 87.)
On May 7^th, Worshipful Brother Lewis Parker, Past Master of Trenton Lodge No. 5, gave a lecture on his travels through the Holy Lands. It was illustrated with a stereopticon lantern. Worshipful Brother Parker did not know that exactly twenty-five years, and four days later, his grandson, of the same name, would be raised in Mount Moriah Lodge!
The Grand Master designated St. John’s Day, June 27^th, as a day for making contributions to the Masonic Home. The Lodge voted $25.00, and every member was invited to contribute individually.
1903
W.M. - George W. Michalis

S.W. - Richard C. Woodward

J.W. - Charles F. Burr
The Grand Lodge was endeavoring to raise $40,000.00, “To erect an orphanage at the Masonic Home in order to properly care for the children we now have under our charge, and make room for others that will be sure to come in the near future.” Our Lodge voted that every member be taxed $2.00 for such purpose.
Past Grand Master Ewan, on behalf of the contributing Brethren of Mount Moriah Lodge, presented to Worshipful Brother Ira C. Leedom, a handsome jewel in appreciation of his heroic service. This service was rendered to our city by Brother Leedom (a physician), during the smallpox epidemic of 1903.
1904
W.M. - Richard C. Woodward

S.W. - Charles E. Burr

J.W. - Cornelius E. Force
There was a funeral service for Worshipful Brother Bantle, conducted in the evening at his home. He was to be buried in Philadelphia the next day. Bearers and Lodge representatives were appointed to accompany the remains. (This is probably the first instance of the funeral service being conducted in the evening.)
The Grand Master was present at the raising of a Brother. Coincidently, a large number of visitors and Brethren were present. Subsequently, a banquet was held in the assembly room of the Hall.
The last of our charter members, Robert Fenton, died.
A collection was taken for a Christmas gift to “guests” at the Masonic Home.
At the Annual Communication there was a, “Rising vote of thanks extended to the retiring Worshipful Master for the able manner in which he had conducted the Lodge during the past year.”

1905
W.M. - Charles E. Burr

S.W. - Cornelius E. Force

J.W. - Harold A. Sholl
Three dozen lamb-skin aprons were purchased for $24.75.
There was a resolution, to present Brother William R. Haffelfinger with a Bible from Mount Moriah Lodge in memory of the event of his 50^th birthday (anniversary) as a member of this Lodge. He had first received Masonic Light in this Lodge on March 14, 1855. Brother Haffelfinger, in turn presented the Lodge with a very old decorated Masonic apron, which the Lodge ordered to be framed.
The Lodge donated $25.00 to the William F. Burk Presentation Fund as, “A small recognition for his labor of love and many acts of kindness extended to this Lodge during his official administration as District Deputy Grand Master.”
We purchased two gas stoves for $9.00.
1906
W.M. -Cornelius E. Force

S.W. - Harold A. Sholl

J.W. - William M. Kester
Brother Hamilton B. Hale became Treasurer, after the long tenure of Brother Edwin S. Buzby.
The Annual Communication of the Lodge should have been held on December 27^th, but due to a confusion of notices, was held on December 13^th. The Grand Master was notified, and he declared the error was “duly healed,” and the election valid.

The Secretary was directed to, “Procure a suitable stand for the use of the Senior Deacon while attending to his duties at the altar.”

A donation of $50.00 was made for relief of Masons affected by the San Francisco earthquake.
The Hall Association tried to raise the annual rent to $150.00, (from $75.00). After some negotiating, they reduced their figure to $127.50. The Lodge made a counter offer of $100.00, which was finally accepted.
Our long time Tyler, Brother Edward Clift, died. The Lodge, with an escort from Ivanhoe Commandery, proceeded to his home, thence to the Baptist Church, and finally to the cemetery.
On December 12^th, Grand Master Chandler (of New Jersey), and Grand Master Kendrick (of Pennsylvania), were in attendance for the raising of a Brother. Also in attendance were the Grand Lodge officers, 34 visitors, and many of our local Brethren. The Lodge was opened at 6 o’clock, by special dispensation and Brother Edmund F. Garret was raised. Following this, there were speeches by the Grand Master’s and others.
“A most delightful evening was spent making another bright spot in the history of Mount Moriah Lodge, which can be looked back upon with many pleasant recollections.” “Train Time” arrived for the departure of our distinguished visitors. After which the regular business of the Lodge was continued (including receipt of five petitions). A payment of $50.00 was made to the American House for supper, which indicates the visitors had been fed before the meeting.
1907
W.M. - Harold A. Sholl

S.W. - William M. Kester

J.W. - Charles S. Osmond
The Committee to have the Lodge Room cleaned and repapered, reported voluntary contributions of $116.90 (the cost of the work was $112.72).
The Lodge initiation fee was raised to $40.00 (from $30), and the dues to $5.00 from $3.00.
There was a visitor from Kilwinning Lodge No. 208 of Scotland.
A Committee was appointed for purchase of a suitable rug to cover the worn place in the carpet of ante-room, and also to have the Junior Warden’s chair repaired.
Worshipful Brother Woodward installed the officers at the Annual Communication, and he continued to do so for many years thereafter.
1908
W.M. - William M. Kester

S.W. - Charles S. Osmond

J.W. - George W. Swift, Jr.
A Brother, who was suspended for NPD in 1883, paid the amount for which he was suspended, plus additional Masonic Home assessments during the interval of his suspension. He was reinstated, and given a demit, as he wanted to join a new Lodge being formed in Texas.
An “older” member, living in Philadelphia, was reported out of work for a long time. A job was obtained for him in Bordentown, but he returned to Philadelphia due to sickness. He asked the Lodge to draw what wages were due him, and apply them to his dues. The Lodge remitted his dues, and sent him the money.
The Lodge voted $50.00 for the relief of needy family of a deceased Brother.
1909
W.M. - Charles S. Osmond

S.W. - George W. Swift, Jr.

J.W. - Elmer B. Ayres
The long service of Worshipful Brother Wiese as Secretary, came to an end with the year 1908. W. Brother Cornelius E. Force became his successor.
An invitation was received from Brother John F.B. Atkin, Worshipful Master of Conrad B. Day Lodge No. 645 (in Philadelphia), for officers and members of Mount Moriah to attend the raising of Brothers on April 9^th, at the Philadelphia Temple. There would be many distinguished Masons in attendance at this event, and a banquet would be served. Brother Atkin arranged to have a special railroad car for the exclusive use of members of Mount Moriah, which would be attached to a train leaving Bordentown (at 5:36), and returning from Camden (at 11:57).
Brother Atkin (a resident of Bordentown), was a visitor to our Lodge on April 28^th, at which time Brother Woodward, “Expressed sentiments of the Lodge’s sincere appreciation of the very enjoyable visit to Conrad B. Day Lodge.” Brother Atkin replied with “some very pleasant timely thoughts.”
The Secretary reported a possible attempt at fraud in selling of tickets for the “chancing off” of a lot for the benefit of a supposed indigent widow (of a member of Mount Moriah Lodge).
1910
W.M. - George W. Swift, Jr.

S.W. - Elmer B. Ayres

J.W. - Joseph B. Reynolds
It was suggested by Brother Woodward that a copy of the Masonic Manual be presented to all newly raised Brethren. To accommodate this, five copies were ordered.
A petitioner was elected to membership after having been rejected on eight previous attempts. He became an active and valuable member of the Lodge and became its largest financial benefactor.
At the Annual Communication, a special Charity Committee was appointed and authorized to purchase a United New Jersey Railroad and Canal Co. bond. The income from this would be devoted to purposes of the Charity Fund. They did so at cost of $240.75.
Brother Force was presented with a commission as Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of Michigan (for the Grand Lodge of New Jersey).


A 1910 photo of Farnsworth Ave., in Bordentown, New Jersey (looking south from the park).
1911
W.M. - Elmer B. Ayres

S.W. - Joseph B. Reynolds

J.W. - Charles H. Fennimore
Fire underwriters objected to the position of the stove pipe in ante-room. It was ordered fixed.
Philip H. Brakeley, elected to membership in Mount Moriah, received the Entered Apprentice degree in a Lodge in Cleveland, Ohio, the Fellowcraft Degree in Mount Moriah, and the Master Mason Degree in Moose Jaw Lodge No. 3 of Saskatchewan.
Masonic Home fees of $5.50 were required hereafter on each candidate.
Flowers were presented to Brother William R. Haffelfinger on his 56th Masonic anniversary, and the members were urged to send him congratulatory cards. He received nearly 100 cards, and letters from the Grand Master and the Grand Secretary.


Bordentown, NJ Train Station 1912
1912
W.M. - Joseph B. Reynolds

S.W. - Charles H. Fennimore

J.W. - John E. Horn
There was a funeral service for the Brother of a Scottish Lodge.
Quoted from our first meeting in April, “The matter of giving a reception to Right Worshipful Richard C. Woodward, presently Deputy Grand Master, in the event of his elevation to the Grand East, was brought to the attention of the Lodge. As it will be the first time in the history of Mount Moriah Lodge that it was so honored, we should fittingly observe it.” A Committee was appointed to make arrangements.
It was moved to have the Lodge rooms cleaned and papered in time for the reception.
Brother Charles E. Burr was appointed Senior Grand Steward.
On May 8^th, the Reception for the Grand Master was held. Present were 66 officers and members of Mount Moriah, 16 visitors, Officers & Grand Staff, 8 Past Grand Officers, and 10 Deputies. There were many speeches and comments, then the Lodge closed “without form” (whatever that may be), by the Grand Master.
A social hour was enjoyed by all present at conclusion of which a bountiful lunch was served in the Assembly Room. “And so with many kind wishes for the Most Worshipful Grand Master and the Lodge which he has distinguished, the visitors scattered to the various parts of the State and the members to their homes with bright recollections of the only event of its kind in the annals of Mount Moriah.”
1913
W.M. - Charles H. Fennimore

S.W. - John E. Horn

J.W. - George Anderson
There was a donation of $25.00 for relief of distressed Brethren in the West.
The matter of placing a toilet on the third floor (of the Hall), was referred to Trustees.
Worshipful Brother Kester was appointed Grand Representative of the Grand Lodge of Georgia, near the Grand Lodge of New Jersey.
On November 17^th, there was a visit by Grand Master Tilden, and many Grand Lodge Officers. This was to present the Past Grand Masters jewel to Most Worshipful Brother Woodward, who was lauded by various speakers. After the closing of the Lodge, the Brethren repaired to the Bordentown House, where a social hour was enjoyed. “After which each journeyed to his home well pleased with the distinction attained by Mount Moriah and trusting that its continued existence may prove one of absolute harmony and Brotherly love.”


1914
W.M. - John F. Horn

S.W. - George Anderson

J.W. - Frank N. Thompson
A framed portrait of Most Worshipful Brother Woodward was presented to the Lodge.
The Lodge purchased two oscillating fans for the comfort of the Brethren.
There was notice from Grand Secretary, pursuant to action of the Grand Lodge, stating that, “Each Lodge in this Grand jurisdiction cloth the officers with metal collars within three years, and the same could be procured through Grand Secretary’s Office at cost of $79.50.”
Brethren were urged to send letters of congratulations to Right Worshipful Henry S. Haines, on the occasion of his 50^th wedding anniversary, and of the 30^th anniversary of his service as Grand Instructor. (He continued to serve 8 more years in this capacity - until his death.)
On November 25^th, the Lodge was addressed by Worshipful Brother Harry V. Holloway of St. John’s Lodge (Delaware), who was Superintendent of local schools, and who later became the Grand Master of Delaware.