Diamond Jubilee - Seventy Five Years a Mason

Brother Aldean Westwood Anderson has achieved a rare milestone. On February 26th, 2004, he celebrated his 75th year as a Master Mason. It is believed that his is the first time that a member of Mill Valley Lodge has reached this lofty plateau. On that day, Bros. Charles Sands, Richard Mills, Pierre Born, Bruce Rossman, and Cecil Crowe gathered with Bro. Anderson at his home.

Bro. Anderson is a truly remarkable person. He is age 98, lives alone with only part-time assistance for personal care. He cooks for himself and uses a computer for correspondence. He still enjoys reading and some TV to keep abreast of current events.

Bro. Anderson retired in 1971 as clerk for the North Western Railroad in San Rafael and was the last employee at the 4th Street Railroad Depot.

When Bro. Anderson was Entered an Apprentice on January 8, 1929, Passed on January 29, 1929, and Raised on February 26, 1929: When Bro. Anderson joined this Lodge, the Master was Bro. John Monzingo. Bro. Anderson delightfully shared some of his early lodge experiences, including his having helped retire the debt incurred in the 1925 addition to the Lodge Hall, and his current philosophies with his visitors.

Apparently long life is in his genes, as he ahs a 105-year old sister who is residing at the Masonic Home in Union City.

Congratulations to Bro. Aldean W. Anderson for accomplishing what few others have been able to achieve.