Mill Valley Lodge’s Fourth Decade
January 1934 Bulletin
All of the offices join in expressing thanks and appreciation for the fine turn out on the night of the installation [Dec. 16, 1933]. Almost 200 members of our own Lodge were present and a large number of visitors added to the gathering. The lodge room was filled to capacity and more than 200 remained for the banquet which followed the installation ceremonies. The interest shown certainly makes us look forward to the coming year with high hopes. ¶While enjoying the festivities in the banquet hall, the fire alarm sounded and word was received that the home of Brother Larry Egger was destroyed by fire. Our sincere sympathy goes out to Larry and Mrs. Egger and the children. The loss of a home is unfortunate at any time but coming at the Christmas Season, it is doubly so. ¶Hold That Line! On January 16th, our Senior Warden promises some "inside information" on the past football season. ¶Brother Fred Thompson will address the Lodge after business is conducted at Stated Meeting on February 6th. He will give us real first hand information on Marin County Government - outlining what has been accomplished and what is planned for the future. Masonry demands good citizenship. Good citizenship demands interest in civic affairs. Show that you are interested in the work of Marin County Supervisors and other County Officials and attend our February Stated Meetings. ¶In the year just past it has been a real privilege and a great pleasure to be associated and work with Brother Fred Penn. Anyone with troubles found a sympathetic friend and advisor in Fred. His year as Master will go down in Mill Valley history as a signally successful one in spite of the economic condition and lack of degree work. The officers particularly have high hopes for the continuance of his attendance. ¶The year we are entering upon finds Carl Fennema, of Golden Gate Ferry Fame, gracing the Oriental Chair in the East. It is his earnest wish to carry on and make life on Tuesday nights just as entertaining and interesting as it ahs been in the past. ¶The C.C.C. [Civilian Conservation Corps] has brought visitors to our door. Members of the Craft stationed with the C.C.C. boys at Muir Woods, will find a big welcome and we hope to have them with us often on Tuesday nights. ¶Any member having or knowing of employment available for a fellow member, please notify the Master or Wardens. Members unemployed may also register at the National Re-Employment Agency of San Rafael, Calif. ¶Due to the many duties required of the Senior Warden, it has been necessary to relieve Brother Arthur Thomas as Editor of the Lodge Bulletin. Brother Dick Lawrence, our Senior Deacon, assumes the Editorship with this issue. He seems to have gotten away to an excellent start.… ¶The card tables are in fair condition and the billiard table is still available - so come on you Bridge Sharks and Bottle Pool Experts - bring your Masonic friends, and if Roy Springett can keep the rooms warm enough we will look forward to some congenial evenings.
February 1934 Bulletin
¶Don't forget to turn out for the Colonial Costume Dance on February 20th. Rig up in some costume apropos of Colonial days. Come and dance where the bright lights reflect a galaxy of beautiful ladies and stalwart gentlemen. Wear your powdered wig and bring you lady in hoop skirts. If you have no costume - OK; Certainly it's alright to bring a friend or neighbor to enjoy the evening with you. ¶Mill Valley Chapter of the Easter Star have extended a cordial invitation to all members of the Blue Lodge and their ladies to attend the annual Star banquet at the Lodge Hall on Thursday evening, February 15th, at 7 p.m. The ante is 75c per plate and no tax! ¶It is with extreme regret that we report the resignation at our February stated meeting of Brother Paul Helmore as Secretary of Mill Valley Lodge. After 20 years' service as Secretary, Brother Helmore wished to be relieved of the manifold duties required of a Secretary. The Worshipful Master, on behalf of the Lodge membership, expressed appreciation for the many years' service Brother Paul had rendered the Lodge. Reports have it that Paul intends devoting his Tuesday nights in the future to showing the boys just how "bottle pool" should be played. ¶Bro. "Jake" Uhrig was appointed by the Master to fill the Secretary's position following Brother Helmore's resignation. Brother Uhrig has served on the Lodge Auditing Committee for the past five or six years. He also acted as a "pinch hitter" for Paul a few years back when Paul went across the pond to pay his respects to the Prince of Wales. ¶Our esteemed Treasurer, Brother Kent Seymour, spent many busy Saturday nights, during January, installing officers in San Rafael, Bloomfield and Sonoma. Proving that Kent and Mrs. Seymour are as popular abroad as they are at home, we learn that they were presented with the first Master's chair of Vitruvius Lodge in Bloomfield, on the occasion of their 40th Wedding Anniversary. Vitruvius being one of the earliest lodges in California, the chair dates back to pioneer days. ¶On March 13th a First Degree and on April 10th a second Degree. These are the real thing - not rehearsals. Lets have a good attendance. ¶After an illness of several weeks, Brother Tommy Newson is again "skippering" one of the Golden Gate ferryboats on the Sausalito-Hyde Street run. ¶Brother Elmer Benson of Belvedere was licked by the flu for a few days, but latest reports indicate Elmer recovered and again attending to his duties as Town Councilman and looking out for the Marin Municipal Water District in the southeast part of the County. ¶If you are interested in a small amount of insurance at a very reasonable premium cost, ask Carl Fennema or Paul Helmore about the Marin Mutual Benefit Association. ¶Our congratulations to Brother Roy Hanson who was installed Patron of Mill Valley Chapter, O.E.S. Also to Brother Sherb. Elster on being installed High Priest of Mill Valley Royal Arch Chapter. ¶Boys, it looked bad - the Worshipful Master hanging around the stage entrance of the Warfield Theatre every night for a week. We assigned our star "detective reporter" to the job and find everything's O.K. The young lady whom Carl was escorting home each evening was his daughter Phyllis, who was dancing at the Warfield with the O'Neill Kiddies during Christmas Week.
April 1934 Bulletin
"Our Colonial Dance was, as expected, graced with the presence of many beautiful ladies, most of them in costume. The gentlemen were we believe, a bit shy in dressing in knee breeches, although Arthur Thomas could take Ben Franklin's part in any cinema. Tom Nelson, as Cornwall, looked very brave in his coat of red, and The Ambassador from Stinson Beach, in the person of Larry Egger, added just the proper touch of dignity to the occasion. The music was very fine and the punch was excellent. ¶It has been noted that our Master spends many busy Sunday afternoons visiting our indisposed brethren in Mill Valley and environs. ¶Capt. Charles Aspelin parked his ferryboat for an evening and dropped in on February 27th. ¶What has happened to the craft members stationed with the C.C.C. Camps around Muir Woods? We have missed them on Tuesday evenings. Guess we will have to send Brother Barton Herschler after 'em. ¶It is with deep regret and the utmost sorrow that we record the passing of Dr. George F. Rodden on March 8th. Brother Rodden was a Past Master of Marin Lodge No. 191 and had also served as Grand Master. Funeral services were conducted in San Rafael under the auspices of Grand Lodge. ¶Nearly every Tuesday evening finds Roy Ewing, Olin Kelsey, George Minney and others playing bridge in the club room, while Bill Mott and Paul Helmore walk miles around the billiard table chasing the elusive cue ball. It has been a severe surprise to find such dyed-in-the-wool cribbage players as Frank Airey and even the Champion of Nevada, Frank Raney, changing to Auction. ¶Our Stated Meeting on March 6th brought out so many members that the Lodge room had more the appearance of an installation than just a Stated Meeting. The movies of Boulder Dam, as supplied through the courtesy of Mr. Leslie W. Hills, were interesting and instructive. ¶The N.R.A. [National Recovery Act] gets blamed for a lot of things these days. And here is one more. Brother Roy Hodge has become a golf addict. And did he "take" Frank Raney? ¶Brother Harold Forbes, we understand, is temporarily located at Vallejo, helping build battleships or canoes or something. Harold is missed by the brethren who hold morning and evening sessions of the "paddlewheel" lodge. ¶Brother Fred Thompson, in his usual able manner, gave an excelled address before the Lodge following the February Stated Meeting. In addition to interesting information on Marin County Government, including the tax situation in the County, Brother Thompson presented some interesting facts and figures on Civil Works Authority (C.W.A.) projects under way in the County. ¶Sorry to learn that Judge Paul Helmore is ill. We understand it is the flu. Hope Paul's illness will be of short duration and that he will soon be around showing the "bottle-pool" sharks how he ran up that record "49" score in one inning. ¶Did we take a trip to the South Sea Islands on the evening of March 20th? We did, and how! A full passenger list and the S.R.O. sign out at 8:15 p.m."
June and July 1934 Bulletin
"Thank you brethren for our excellent support at our Public Schools Meeting at Tamalpais Union High School on the evening of April 24th. The program was excellent, following which there was ample time to view the many interesting exhibits. Between 1,000 and 1,200 people attended the meeting. ¶Our congratulations to Brother R. E. Starr who is with Uncle Sam's Army at the Presidio and who has been recently promoted to Captain. ¶Too bad we can't run a picture of "Hizzoner" Paul Helmore standing proudly beside a bewitching beauty at the recent Pass Carnival at McNear's Point. The Judge can pick'em for us any day. ¶Since Fred Bagshaw was again elected to the Mill Valley Town Council, we are fairly sure of keeping him home….¶Speaking of politics reminds us that Brother Tom Nelson has his "hat in the ring" at the coming election for District Attorney of Marin County. ¶Contact the W.M., Wardens or Secretary for information about the Marin Mutual Benefit Association. It will be worth your while to do so! ¶We are pleased to see Brother W.J. (Bill) Thomas with us on Tuesday evenings. Bill, you know, was the chap who made the cogs click on the Mountain Road in the days when choo-choo trains traveled up Mt. Tamalpais and to Muir Woods. Brother Thomas is now living in Kentfield. ¶With the start of baseball season, some of our ardent sport-loving brothers feeling the flush of youth have persuaded Brother Penn to coach Mill Valley's first cricket team. Dick Cederberg is manger and those enrolled are Keith McLellan, right tackle, and Ed Donlon, right guard. Those wishing to partake of some lively sport are welcome; bring your own bat. Ed Ramsey is official score-keeper, he'll need an adding machine in this game, as the innings are two days long. ¶Our congratulations to Brother Herb Walton, Past Master of Marin Lodge, who was recently elected district governor of the second district of Rotary International, embracing 163 clubs in California, Nevada, Hawaii and Tijuana, Mexico. ¶About 200 brethren witnessed our Third Degree on May 15th. The Tiler's register shows 93 visitors and included brethren from seven states as well as 46 different California Lodges. ¶The downstairs hall was filled to capacity on the evening of May 22nd when pictures of both the S.F.-Oakland Bay Bridge and the Golden Gate Bridge were presented with an excellent lecture by Professor Charles Derleth, Jr., …"
August 1934 Bulletin
The Lodge witnessed the DeMolay First and Second Degrees on August 21st. "¶A short business meeting followed by an interesting speaker. Brother Leon O. Witsell, Chairman Grand Lodge Committee on Masonic History, will talk to us on "Early Masonic History in California." ¶Marin Chapter, Order of DeMolay, will pay us a visit and confer both the first and second DeMolay degrees. Let's show the boys we are interested in their work and have a good attendance. ¶The Mill Valley and San Rafael Chapters of the Order of Eastern Star were hosts to the Worthy Grand Matron and Patron of the State of California at Mill Valley Hall on the evening of June 25th. A splendid dinner preceded a degree. ¶Brother Henry J. Mackey, First Assistant Engineer on the PRESIDENT MONROE, dropped in recently. He is home on six months leave and intends taking the examination necessary to obtain a Chief's license. We wish him the very best of luck and hope to see him on many Tuesday evenings during his six months stay ashore. ¶On Friday evening, August 17th, 8:45 p.m., the Keystone Association will hold a card party under the auspices of Mill Valley Royal Arch Chapter. Everybody welcome. Score cards 35c. ¶Brother Alton E. Case, in Uncle Sam's Coast Guard service, is spending his summer months in Alaskan waters. ¶The open house evenings of June 12th, 19th, and 26th have afforded some of our regulars with an opportunity to brush up on their bridge, brighten their technique at billiards and now we have as fine a table of pinochle players as it has been our fortune to encounter. You stay-at-homes should come around on some of these Tuesday s if you like light entertainment. We have it. ¶Brother George Mantlo, one of the old timers, paid the lodge a visit on June 19th. Brother Mantlo is stationed at San Quentin and is Captain of the Guard. ¶Some 20 or 25 Mill Valley brethren journeyed to Petaluma Lodge on Saturday evening, June 16th to witness 3rd degree conferred by the Key System Commuters Past Masters' Degree Team. Eats and entertainment followed the degree work."
September 1934 Bulletin
Brother Leon Witsell, President of the California State Railroad Commission, gave us a most entertaining talk on the early history of Masonry in California on the evening of August 7th. He spoke on the activities of Brannon and numerous other characters famous during pioneer days in San Francisco and the gold country. ¶Smoker and Entertainment. Also eats. Dancing girls and hot dogs! Magicians and musicians! This will be the only notice about this famous annual party so mark the date. If the Missus argues about it, consider this a summons from the Oriental Chair and be present at 8 p.m. that night. For members of the Craft only. ¶STAND BY! Brother Earl Warren, Senior Grand Warden of the Grand Lodge and, as District Attorney for Alameda County one of the outstanding law enforcement officers in the state, will talk at Mill Valley Lodge following October 2nd Stated Meeting. His subject will be "Organizing Against Organized Criminals". The W.M. has also asked Brother Warren to make this an official visit to the 51st Masonic District and the other lodges of the district are invited to be with us that evening. ¶Paul Helmore recently returned from a trip to Grand Rapids, Michigan, having made the trip as a delegate of the Sausalito Lions Club. ¶Reports have it that Brother Charles McQuillan is being groomed as a candidate in the governor's race in the State of Arizona. "Mac" has been for many years a member of the House of Representatives in Arizona. When not busy on his legislative work Brother McQuillan is conductor on the Santa Fe "Chief" between Winslow, Arizona, and Needles, Calif. ¶WHY DUES SO HIGH? Members frequently ask: "How about a reduction in dues?" Some years back Mill Valley Lodge assumed a considerable obligation in order to remodel our Lodge Building. At the start of 1934 this debt was $6100.00. As we go to press this amount has been reduced to $5000.00. This will reduce the annual interest charge on the loan from $366.00 to $300.00. If the membership continue their excellent work in paying up back dues the loan will be further reduced. Until this obligation is wiped off the books we cannot reduce our dues. Every effort possible has been made to reduce expenses. Salaries have been reduced. Expenditures for refreshments have been kept at a minimum. This policy has been followed in order to pay off every dollar possible on our building loan. An appraisal of the lodge building has resulted in a reduced amount of insurance and a lower premium rate, making a saving of about $45.00 per year. Remember, also, that 3 or 4 years ago our income from candidates' petitions ran from $800.00 to $1200.00 per year. Last year such income was $100.00; this year, to date, $100.00. The above detail is given so all of our membership will have the facts and better appreciate the necessity for prompt payment of dues. ¶Brother Earl Thacker, down Honolulu way, has been getting himself talked about in the San Francisco papers due to his activities in the recent yacht race from California to the Islands. Earl is Commodore of the Pearl Harbor Yacht Club."
October 1934 Bulletin
"As previously announced, we will receive Brother Earl Warren, Senior Grand Warden, on his official visit to the 51st Masonic District. This means we will have a large attendance of visitors from the other Lodges in the District - Vitruvius, Sonoma, Petaluma, Marin and Fairfax. ¶On the evening of September 12th our Senior Warden, Arthur Thomas, journeyed to Sebastopol and witnessed Brother Charlie King, Master of LaFayette Lodge No. 126, confer the third degree upon his son. ¶The Marin Chapter DeMolay Boys certainly exemplified their two degrees to perfection on their visit to Mill Valley Lodge on August 21st. A good attendance witnessed the work. We might also mention that the boys also do a fine piece of work in their exemplification of the "pie a la mode" degree work! ¶On the evening of September 13th, the Worshipful Master and several of the offices and brethren visited Fairfax Lodge No. 556, first to enjoy a venison dinner and then witnessing a third degree conferred by Brother Lester Covalt, Junior Warden of Fairfax Lodge. ¶Did you know that Brother Arthur Thomas, our Senior Warden, originally belonged to Mission Lodge No. 169? November 14, 1903, when Mission Lodge No. 169 conferred the third degree on Brother Alonzo Coffin. Brother Coffin was subsequently Master in 1910. At the time of Mission Lodge's visit, Harvey Klyce was Master and it is his son, Herbert, who is now Junior Warden of Mill Valley Lodge. ¶Do not overlook the Halloween Party on Tuesday evening, October 30th. For all the family - grown ups and youngsters. Our Junior Warden, Herb Klyce, promises something doing every minute, including cards for the bridge and pinochle players. ¶At the beautiful show of the Dahlia Society of California at the Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco on August 28th and 29th the Haakes of the Bolsa Dahlia Garden received many honors, taking blue ribbons for all their entries, winning ten firsts and two seconds and the trophy for the most artistic table. Brother Charlie Haake extends a cordial invitation to visit the Bolsa Dahlia Gardens in Mill Valley at any time. ¶About 225 of the brethren were on hand for our annual smoker and entertainment on September 18th. All report a very enjoyable time and were Stan Aitchison and Bill Mott the "busy boys"? As them! And we were very pleased with the many visitors from all other Lodges of the 51st District. ¶We regret to announce the passing of Dr. J.H. Kuser, a member of Marin Lodge. Brother Kuser had been practicing medicine in Marin County many years and for a long time was County Health Officer."
November 1934 Bulletin
"Following the business of the evening, we will be favored with an address covering "Masonry in the Military Service" by Brother Robert C. Murphy, Major, Medical Corps, U.S. Army. Brother Murphy has for some time been stationed at Hamilton Field in Marin County and has just recently been transferred to the Lettermann General Hospital at the Presidio in San Francisco. Let's have a good attendance to welcome Brother Murphy on this evening. ¶The degree rehearsals during November will probably serve as examination sessions for next year's officers - so the boys better "be good." ¶Don't forget our annual dance on Thanksgiving Eve - for you, your family and friends. Excellent music is assured and everybody present can expect a very enjoyable evening. Show this paragraph to the Mrs. Or the girl friend so the date will not be forgotten. ¶On the evening of October 2nd, Earl Warren, Senior Grand Warden of the Grand Lodge of California, gave us a fine talk on "Organizing Against Organized Criminals." His visit was also in the nature of an official district visit as he was regularly introduced with our inspector, Kent J. C. Seymour. Officers and brethren from San Rafael, Fairfax, Bloomfield, Sonoma and Petaluma were in attendance. ¶We have a report that Brother D.L. Burbeck is on his way to Miami, Florida, to attend the National Convention of the American Legion. We hope he finds his way back to California. These conventions can be awfully fine, if not too near home. ¶Brother George Cunningham, who does the printing job of this bulletin, suffered considerable damage to his plant by fire recently. George succeeded in saving the October bulletin, which was in course of printing at the time of the fire. ¶Brother Fred Bagshaw, P.M., is taking the march down the old church aisle on October 22nd. Lucky man, he is about to become the proud husband of Alena Huntoon, well known in Masonic affairs and at present Matron of the Mill Valley Chapter, Eastern Star. We wish them both much happiness. ¶We owe a rising vote of thanks to Brother Bill Renauf for seven splendid volumes of "Mackey's Revised History of Free Masonry." ¶The Marin Mutual Benefit Association affords an excellent opportunity for a small amount of insurance at a very low premium cost. Why not take out a policy in favor of your family, your lodge, or the Masonic Homes Endowment Fund? ¶Mill Valley Royal Arch Chapter extends a cordial invitation to attend a card party in the Lodge Hall at 8:45 p.m. on Friday evening, November 2nd. ¶A check of the Tiler's Register for the October Stated Meeting shows all lodges of the 51st Masonic District represented. In addition there were members present from 24 other California Lodges, from eight other states and from one foreign jurisdiction. ¶When in Ogden, Utah recently, Brothers Al Anderson and Dick Lawrence met on the S.P. Station platform Brother Willard Barr, who in his capacity as traffic manager for the Southern Pacific was busy escorting two carloads of Chinese boys around the depot. Willard looks fine and is just a bit heavier with the passing years. Wish he could get those trains out on time! ¶An Excellent Christmas gift; Buy your youngster or some youngster a ticket for the Shrine Annual East-West Football Game at Kezar Stadium in San Francisco. The game is held annually for the benefit of the Shriner's Hospital for Crippled Children. ¶It is with extreme regret that we record the passing of Brother Joseph H. Pryor, a charter member of Mill Valley Lodge, and who for many years past had made his home in Pasadena, where he had been engaged in newspaper publishing. Brother Pryor celebrated his 83rd birthday on September 28th last and passed away suddenly on the morning of October 20th. Funeral services were held in Pasadena on Monday afternoon, October 22nd. Our sincere sympathy is extended to his family at this time of their bereavement. ¶85th Annual Communication of Grand Lodge - A most eloquent eulogy in memory of P.G.M. George F. Rodden was presented before Grand Lodge by Brother Kent Seymour on Wednesday morning, October 10th. ¶Concerning Public Schools Week, we quote the following pertinent comment from the Grand Master's message: "Let no brother, therefore, feel that his participation in this event is merely the perfunctory performance of a prescribed Masonic duty. Rather is he fulfilling a great duty of citizenship, rendering a service to the children, to his state and the nation."
December 1934 Bulletin
" Well of all things! The Hall Association had the card tables recovered. On open house nights we can expect the bridge sharks and pinochle players (?) out in full force. ¶Major Robert C. Murphy gave us a very entertaining talk on "Masonry in the Military Service" after the Stated Meeting of November 4th. Brother Murphy has seen active service in France and related some of his experiences there. ¶For the first time since Mill Valley Lodge secured its charter, Brother Kent Seymour will be absent from our Annual Installation ceremonies. Accompanied by Mrs. Seymour, Kent left on November 12th for a trip that will take them to Tampa, Florida. Mrs. Seymour goes as a California delegate to the General Grand Chapter of the Eastern Star. ¶Brother Earl Thacker is back in California, and we learn from the daily press that he is here to establish airplane communication with the Hawaiian Islands. ¶A very earnest effort has been made to cut expenses in every way possible in order that the outstanding indebtedness of the Hall Association could be reduced. These reductions, together with a most gratifying response in the payment of dues, has permitted a total payment of $1500 during the year on the building loan, reducing the loan balance at this time to $4600. ¶The maintenance of the Lodge Hall and Building has not been neglected. During November the anterooms, hallways, dressing rooms and cloak rooms were repainted. Likewise, new window curtains were secured for the entire building."
Installation program for December 15, 1934: During dinner music was furnished by an orchestra from the Tamalpais Union High School. During the installation, the following brethren provided musical selections: Baritone, Bro. Fred Klein; Tenor, Bro. Earnest Woodward; Organist, Bro. A. Judson Weiler. They performed: "Serenade from Student Prince," "Loch Lomond," "Tell Me Tonight," "Lamplit Hour," "Ole Man River," "One Fleeting Hour," and "Can't Yo Heah Me Callin' Caroline." Arthur Frederick Thomas was installed as Worshipful Master.
January 1935 Bulletin
"Continuing the custom that has prevailed during the last five years, the Lodge will be open every Tuesday evening and if there is not other feature programmed, bridge, pinochle, cribbage, or pool will be the order. ¶According to the register, one hundred and seventy-five brethren attended the installation ceremonies and probably that does not account for all. Among those present were such comparative strangers as Bill Borrow, Frank Lockwood, John Mills, Harold Johnson, Les Gardiner, Isaac Hind, Frank Schall, J. Von Rosen, Al Anderson, and Bob Miller. …Our sincere appreciation is extended to Bill Brooks, Jimmy Fegan, Dave Hudtloff, and John Thompson for assisting in the kitchen; also, to the twenty-sever ladies who so graciously assisted Mrs. Thomas in preparing and serving the dinner. ¶The Past Masters can now welcome into their ranks Brother Carl Fennema who, after turning in an admirable and enviable year, has turned over the trowel to Arthur Thomas. Carl is a work, and everyone working with him learns the real truth of the old adage about keeping the nose on the grindstone. It has, however, been a real pleasure to associate with him and we are glad he will be on deck this year as Chaplain. ¶Congratulations to Brother Edward Polhemus who has been appointed as the head of the San Jose Office of the Motor Vehicle Department, having charge of out registrations, issuing of license plates, etc. ¶Orchids to Brother Larry and Mrs. Egger for their very attractive decorations and congratulations to them and their officers on being installed December 20 in the local Easter Star Chapter. And speaking of orchids, we counted over fifty among the ladies present. Larry's two-timing next year having been elected High Priest of Mill Valley Chapter, Royal Arch Masons. ¶On Tuesday evening, January 15, Mr. Guy MacDonald will give us a talk concerning traffic law enforcement. This will be of vital interest and Mr. MacDonald is especially well qualified to speak on the subject as he is secretary of the Traffic Law Enforcement Board, a member of San Francisco Junior Chamber of Commerce, and Commissioner of Public Safety in San Francisco. Bring your friends and neighbors who are interested in this subject."
February 1935 Bulletin
"Our Secretary, Brother Uhrig, is compiling a library of "Bulletins," which will be placed on file so future generations may learn what transpired in Mill Valley Masonry during this era. Brother Jake has on hand copies of all issues for 1934 and 1935, but is anxious to acquire a copy of each preceding number, if possible. Will you brethren having such, send them in to Jake. He hasn't offered a prize for the oldest but we'll try and talk up the idea. ¶Brother Fred F. Runyon, now residing in Pasadena, spent a week in San Francisco during January. Brother Fred has the distinction of being the first member raised in Mill Valley Lodge. ¶Brother Clyde Scott is representing Mill Valley in Southern California art circles. He is a member of Fox Film Corporation art staff and at present has a painting in the Academy of Western Painters Exhibition at the Los Angeles Museum. Brother Scott is working on the Fox production, "Dante's Inferno." From Mill Valley to the Inferno is a long jump from the sublime to - well, you name it. ¶Brother Charles J. McQuillan, who for a number of years has been a member of the Arizona House of Representatives, was appointed Speaker pro tempore. This is the first time in the history of the Arizona Legislature that a Republican has sat in the capacity of Speaker of the House. Congratulations. ¶As we go to press it is learned that Harry Symonds will be installed Illustrious Master of King Solomon's Council, R. & S.M. ¶On Saturday evening we are to have the pleasure of seeing the First Degree as exemplified in England. A 50c dinner will be served at 6:30 P.M. and we urge everyone not to miss this part of the program for it will be one of the interesting features of the evening. The members of the Masonic English Ritualists who will present the work, have earned an enviable reputation for their very entertaining performance. Return the enclosed card to Bill Mott [Senior Steward] immediately, so that he can make ample provision for the dinner."
March 1935 Bulletin
"…[O]n Tuesday, march 12th, the DeMolay boys from San Rafael are coming to Mill Valley. They will initiate a candidate and after the ceremony we are going to give them a pie and ice-cream feed so Bros. Mott and Lou [Stewards] will have their hands full, because those boys CAN eat pie. ¶Following the Stated Meeting on March 5th Brother Stanley Aitchison will furnish us with several reels of motion pictures depicting the manufacture of steel. These pictures have been much in demand. Bro. Stanley has shown them throughout Northern California. He will explain the various operations, as the picture is shown. ¶It is reported that Brothers Frank Herrick and Walter Perkins are contemplating a trip to Europe. We understand that they intend voyaging first to New York via Panama. We hope they enjoy a pleasant trip and we intend scheduling them for a talk on their return. ¶At the Stated Meeting on March 5th the proposed amendments to our Constitution will be discussed. A proposal has been made to reduce the initiation fee."
April & May 1935 Bulletin
Following stated meeting on April 2nd we will have the pleasure of a talk entitled, "Our Ancient Craft," by Worshipful Brother Edward J. Hudson, Past Master Lodge of Saint Andrew in the Far East No. 493, Grand Lodge of Scotland; Past Grand Warden, Grand Lodge of Scottish Free Masons in Northern China. You will remember Brother Hudson as a member of the Masonic English Ritualists, who visited us during February. He has lived and traveled extensively in the Orient and is an authority on early Masonic history. ¶Do you know what happened at our stated meeting of April 19, 1920, which is some fifteen years ago? In referring to the old minutes of that date we learn that Brother Charlie Brockhoff was Worshipful Master; Brother Lee Van Atta, Senior Warden; Brother Bill Aitchison, Junior Warden. During the evening Brothers Foster Manhood, John Hartewll, Jens Anders Schalde and James Robertson were examined as to their proficiency in the work of the Fellowcraft degree. After this Brothers Alvie Adams, Leland Zimmerman and Jack Hassett were passed to the degree of Fellowcraft. This work was not even considered a busy evening in those days. ¶Brother Frank F. Bostwick has been ill, but we are glad to report he is feeling better at this time, and was at his station by the organ at a recent degree. ¶The DeMolay boys of Marin Chapter from San Rafael conferred both the first and second DeMolay Degrees on Bob Sandstrom, son of Brother Gus, and younger brother of Brothers Fred and Gordon Sandstrom, on March 12th. ¶It has come to our attention that a notice has been printed in the Commonwealth Club's paper to the effect that one "hat" has been lost, stolen or strayed. Said hat was gray in color, size 7 [and] 1/8, and inside were the initials K.J.C.S. It is hardly probable that two people in California have claim to those initials, so we think it safe to hope that Kent Seymour, our beloved Treasurer, recovers his wayward skimmer. ¶You will have an opportunity of seeing a Third Degree, which has become comparatively infrequent of late. ¶The smoker advertised for April 30th will give us all a chance to enjoy an evening of unique entertainment. Arrangements have been made to bring over from Berkeley the Patio Players who will present a one act play. The Players come well recommended, and in addition we hope to have several entertaining musicians. Free smokes and refreshments following the show. Come and bring along at least one other member of the craft. ¶At a recent meeting our register showed Masons present from Lodges in fifteen states other than California, as well as visitors from Great Britain, Alaska and China. ¶The motion picture Stan Aitchison brought over March 5th and which was shown following the stated meeting, caused so much favorable comment that we are arranging for a similar picture, which will be on hand for our stated meeting on May 7th. ¶It is reported that Bro. Kenneth Echols is located in Manila, P.I., and has the post of manager in the Army and Navy Club in that city. ¶Larry Egger, Olin Kelsey, and Harry Symonds attended the annual sessions of the Grand Chapter Royal Arch Masons and Grand Council R. & S.M. at Pasadena in April. Harry, as you know, is Illustrious Master of King Solomon Council, and Larry presides over Mill Valley Chapter. All report a very interesting and enjoyable trip. ¶And by the way, you who are Knight Templars will be glad to learn that Olin Kelsey receives the Order of the Temple in San Francisco Commandery on May 21. How about a dinner before the ceremonies. If you are interested get in touch with Carl Fennema for particulars. Several years ago we staged a Forty-niner party and everyone came dressed in the habiliments usual to that period. Games and prizes, followed by coffee and cake, gave everyone a good evening. On Tuesday, May 29, we intend having another and we solicit you support and attendance. Come as a miner, an Indian, a stage coach driver, or in some outfit apropos of Forty-niner days. If you can't rig up an outfit of some kind, wear your overalls. BRING THE LADIES AND YOUR FRIENDS. LOTS OF PRIZES, GAMES AND DANCING. ¶Something new for Mill Valley Lodge! An all talkie. An hour of popular entertainment for young and old. The Pacific Films, Ltd., will present a group of talking pictures with musical recordings by Lt. Benter of the U.S. Navy Band. This entertainment has been scheduled for June 11 and we promise you a most pleasant evening. You may invite your friends and neighbors and by all means the ladies. The series of pictures are sponsored program and will take us around the world, from the canals of Venice, through New York, Paris, Rome, Capetown, Shanghai to those interesting sections of China. ¶Worshipful Master Arthur Thomas drove down to Decoto on March 30 and paid a visit to Bros. Asmus and Hyde. He reports that they are well and contented. Bro. Asmus has is own little garden which keeps him occupied.
August 1935 Bulletin
The entertainment for August will consist of the Second Degree on the 13th and of course open house on the 20th and 27th. Our regulars will have ample opportunity to get back into form at the bridge and pedro games. The billiardists and the bottle pool players can sharpen their technique, not to overlook our recently recruited pinochle players. It's not far from the house, so drop in on Tuesday nights. You stay-at-homes should come around if you like light entertainment. We have it. ¶Following the Stated Meeting on July 2nd, Brother Casper J. Gardner spoke briefly of his travels around the world and remarked on the many changes in customs during the past 50 years. He intends on taking a short rest and then starting off again; this time for Alaska. ¶Incidentally, Brother [Al] Anderson walked off with the door prize at the Forty-niner party - that beautiful electric clock everyone had an eye on. ¶Frank Airey, Roy Springett, Roy Ewing, and Fred Penn were trying vainly to beat the chuck-a-luck game at the Forty-niner party on May 28th. But we think Fred has a "system." ¶Next October will be celebrated by Mill Valley Lodge as 'Old Home Town Month.' We are going to try and have something of interest to present on every Tuesday during the celebration; a roll-call, a Past Master's Night, a Smoker, and a Kiddie Night. Plans are being perfected for all these events, and notice will be given in due time."
September 1935 Bulletin
"Your special attention is called to the third degree scheduled for Tuesday, September 24, at 8:00 p.m. Carl Fennema, Past Master and present Chaplain, together with a team of railroad and ferry-men members of the fraternity will confer this degree. Carl must think it will be something of a football game because he notified the writer that the regular officers had better be on hand and in good shape to take over in case of necessity. Get the idea - substitutes on the sideline. Here is a list of the officers for the evening: C.F. Fennema, Worshipful Master (Past Master of Mill Valley); Bob Stanton, Senior Warden (Senior Warden of Military Service); John Lindberg, Junior Warden (Member of So. San Francisco Lodge); Doc Piercy, Senior Deacon (Mill Valley); Fred Sandstrom, Junior Deacon (Mill Valley); the balance to be announced later. ¶Bro. Fred I. Drexler, a member of Azusa Lodge No. 305 has purchased the Mill Valley Record and has been a frequent visitor to Mill Valley Lodge. ¶The officers of Vitruvius Lodge, Bloomfield, have kindly invited all of the members of Mill Valley to a picnic, their annual affair, this time to be held at Odd Fellows Park on the Russian River, southeast of Guerneville. Swimming, boating, baseball and a general good time will be the order. Bring your own lunch. They furnish coffee and cream. September 15, 1935 is the date." A summons was issued by Arthur F. Thomas, W.M. to attend the Ferry Company Third Degree led by Wor. Bro. Fennema, the Lodge's immediate Past Master.
October - Special Flyers to the Membership for: 1) October 15, 1935 Advertising Dinner - "Rolling Down to Rio" a special movie feature through the courtesy of Pan-American Airways Systems; 2) Roll Call Dinner on October 1, 1935 celebrating the 32nd Anniversary of Mill Valley Lodge and Past Masters Night - Reminiscences the Order of the Evening; 3) October 22, 1935 Smoker for members of the Craft featuring a Magician and Dancing Girls; 4) October 30, 1935 - Annual Halloween Party for the Kiddies with games and prizes. Nb. The Advertising dinner, including printed advertisement were by F.H. Lee, Food Advertising of Berkeley, CA. Food Advertising heralded these dinners as a way to raise money for organizations: The organization provided cream and sugar for the beverages, set the tables, served the guests, washed the dishes, and cleaned the banquet room and Food Advertising supplied the meal and entertainment for 20c per person for 100 or more persons or a flat rate of $20 for less than 100 persons. The organization was free to charge whatever they wanted for the dinner tickets or charge nothing at all: Mill Valley opted to advertise this as "A Dollar's Worth for 30c."
November 1935 Bulletin
"Earl Thacker has been appointed by the Governor of the Hawaiian Islands to represent the Hawaiian Group at the inauguration of the President of the Philippine Islands. Brother Earl has, we learn, recently left Honolulu for the ceremonies at Manila. ¶At the Stated Meeting in October, Carl Fennema and Past Masters took over the Lodge for the annual roll call. The Past Masters present were: Lonnie Coffin, Kent Seymour, Charlie Brockoff, Lee Van Atta, Bill Aitchison, Frank Herrick, Fred Bagshaw, John Monzingo, Tom Nelson, Francis Burt, Fred Penn, and Carl Fennema. Our First Master, Harvey Klyce, was indisposed on the evening, and we were sorry he could not be on hand. Letters were read from Horace Coffin, Tom Greaves, and Lud Koster, regretting their inability to be in Mill Valley, but extending their best wishes to all. Past Master George Cooke, now residing in Sparks, Nevada, also wrote a nice letter saying he'd try to be on deck for the next one. ¶Frank Bostwick has been a member of the fraternity since 1888. That's quite a record, and he still is one of the few members who will play the organ; and what's more, he really gets music out of it. ¶Every time we have degree work on a new member connected with the N.W.P.R.R. or the Golden Gate Ferries, we have such a turn-out of Masters, Mates and Engineers that the Lodge room looks salty. Such was the case last month when Past Master Fennema, with the assistance of some of the saltiest, conferred the degree of Master Mason on Brother Harry Baker. Bob Stanton, Senior Warden of Military Service Lodge, brought over almost all of his officers and quite a number of other members. The evening was a success, especially for Brother Baker. ¶Earl Warren, District Attorney of Alamdea County, was elected Grand Master for the ensuing year. Brother Warren was a guest speaker at Mill Valley one evening during 1934. Needless to say, he is a very brilliant speaker and an ardent and capable Mason. ¶October has been a busy month in our Lodge, and the officers wish to extend their sincere thanks for the splendid attendance at the affairs which have taken place. It is their hope that all of you have enjoyed them as much as the wrecking crew have enjoyed giving them. Unless we are overly optimistic, we believe the Roll Call on the 1sat, the Advertising Dinner the 15th, the Smoker on the 22nd, and the Halloween Party on the 30th were real events, and those who missed them are not getting their money's worth of fun and fellowship. ¶Keep in mind the annual Thanksgiving Eve Dance scheduled for Wednesday, November 27, at 8:45 P.M. The next day being a holiday will afford you plenty of opportunity to sleep late. Get the old Tux out of mothballs, be big-hearted and buy the missus a corsage (and that's an idea), and turn out for this big time. Good music, soft lights, and maybe you'll win a prize. Bring your friends and work up an appetite for the turkey next day. ¶On Thursday evening, November 14, the San Francisco Bodies Scottish Rite Masons will present a play, "An Eighteenth Century Lodge."
December 1935 Bulletin
"Believe it or not, one of our members 'made' Winchell's column on November 21st. Here is the article: 'Charles J. McQuillan of Navajo, is in the Arizona House of Representatives, and is a trainman on the Chief between Winslow and Needles! He has the autograph of nearly every movie star - and his favorite newspaper traveler is initialed A.B.' ¶This is going to be a short Bulletin as your Editor resigns with this issue. With the press of business and the excitement of the current football season, he has slipped on his news gathering."
Installation of Officers, Saturday, December 14, 1935: Installation for members of the Craft only. Herbert Asbury Klyce was installed as Worshipful Master by his father and Brother, Wor. Harvey Asbury Klyce. Clarence Oscar Hively replaced Frank Bostwick as Organist.
January 1936 Bulletin
The Lodge conferred a First Degree under the direction of Junior Warden Samuel G. Bagshaw. "On December 19th Clarence Hively, our new organist, was installed Worthy Patron of the Mill Valley Chapter of the Eastern Star. ¶You will notice that under the heading Officers of 1936 that the name of Fred Penn is listed as Officers Coach. This is a new position created by our Master."
February 1936 Bulletin
"The last installation to be held was Temple Lodge at Sonoma on the 25th of January. Brother Fred Penn was Installing Officer, while our Inspector, Brother Kent Seymour, was Master of Ceremonies. At the Installation in San Rafael Brother Earl Warren, Grand Master of Masons in the State of California, was the Installing Officer….¶Brother Dick Sloan, who has been working in Arizona and New Mexico on geological survey, is now working on the surveying of the approach of the Golden Gate Bridge. ¶Congratulations to Brother Dwight Merriam. We have just learned that he has been elected President of the San Francisco Junior Chamber of Commerce. ¶Brother Lange of Sausalito, while attempting to make his launch fast to the dock, fell overboard. After several unsuccessful attempts to haul himself aboard his board he held fast to the side and waited for the S.P. Golden Gate boat to come in and he attracted the attention of the crew, who promptly rescued him. Brother Lange has fallen into every one of the seven seas, and this is the first time that he has not gotten himself out in his many years of sailing the seas. We are glad to report that he is no worse for the experience. He was back o the job the next day."
March and April 1936 Bulletin
Mary Stewart Smith, Honored Queen, and her corps of Officers at Bethel No. 48, Order of Job's Daughters, San Rafael, will pay us a visit on Tuesday evening, March 17th, at which time Bernice Penn and Alberta Beebe will be initiated into the order. Those who have witnessed this ceremony state that it is very beautiful and impressive. Al Master Mastons, their wives and friends who have Masonic affiliations and who have reached the age of Twenty (20) years are invited. The ceremony will commence at eight o'clock p.m. sharp. Following the ceremony the officers of Job's Daughters will entertain us in the Banquet Hall, at which time refreshments will be served. ¶We are sorry to report the passing of Brother Roy Hansen's father, Brother Captain Goodman Hansen, who was a member of Oakland lodge No. 188. Mill Valley Lodge, at the request of the family buried Captain Hansen with Masonic honors. To his former associates on the ferryboats and his many friends his passing will be a distinct loss. To his wife and family we extend our heartfelt sympathy. ¶The Worshipful Mater, Herbert Klyce, is now working in San Francisco and we are glad to see him back on the ferryboats. We notice that he is opening and closing the "paddle wheel lodge" regularly. ¶We learn from reliable sources that after March 10th the police force in Mill Valley is to be strengthened on account of one of our Past Masters moving into town."
May, June and July 1936 Bulletin
"Public Schools Week, which was celebrated the week of April 27th, was a big success in our district. At the Tamalpais High School on April 28th there was a joint meeting of the Mill Valley Grammar School and the High School, and the attendance was the largest we have had so far. The entertainment was good and the various exhibits showed the wonderful work that is being done in the schools. On Wednesday night, the 29th, the Corte Madera Larkspur School held their meeting and they also had a good attendance. Their exercises consisted of a play put on the by the children and also a speaker whose subject was given over the issues to be on the Ballot at the coming elections which would affect the schools."
Special notice was sent via post card for Special Meetings in June 1936: On June 16th the Lodge was convened to confer the Third Degree; on June 30th, the Lodge was convened to confer the First Degree.
The Trustees wrote the Worshipful Master, Officers and members of Mill Valley Lodge No. 356 on June 2, 1936 concerning discussion of improvements to the Lodge Hall. There had been "considerable discussion" concerning the purchase of a new organ "to replace the present old style reed organ which has about outlived it's usefulness." Other improvements considered were improved heating and ventilation throughout the building and improved lighting facilities in the Lodge room. Discussed was the fact that "A modern, indirect lighting system, pendant or cove type, will cost from $500. to $2,000., depending on the system selected", and that "A second hand reed organ, similar to that now in use, will cost $400. or $500., depending on instrument selected. A new electric organ or a new small size pipe organ installation will cost from $1,250. To $1,500. A second hand pipe organ installation is available for around $800." It was also discussed that there was a need to build a cash reserve to maintain the building, which need had to be balanced with the "Masonic pledge" made when dues were raised that the increased amount of dues would only be used to pay off the building loan. The Trustees were of the opinion that the current level of dues had to be maintained until at least the entire debt was liquidated, and then, given the economy as a whole and the impact it was having on new applications, that the level of dues should be continued. A resolution was also made to dissolve the Hall Association and vest management in the hands of the Trustees.
August 1936 Bulletin
"At the Lodge Stated Meeting of July 7th, Resolution as to future financial policy, as recommended by the Lodge Trustees, was unanimously adopted. This means that all available funds will be used in paying off on the Building Loan until such loan has been entirely liquidated. Incidentally, at this writing, an additional $500.00 has been paid off, reducing the outstanding indebtedness to $2200.00. ¶Resolution offered for dissolution of the Mill Valley Masonic Hall Association was rejected. The Lodge Trustees and Directors of the Hall Association, after having offered the Resolution at the June 2nd Stated Meeting, made further investigation and it was their recommendation that the Resolution was rejected at our July 7th Stated Meeting. ¶Wilber Laverle Thatcher has been appointed Assistant Manager of the Palace Hotel. Anytime you are in the Palace look Laverle up and he will be glad to see you. ¶On June 29th the members assembled in San Rafael to bury Brother Arthur Shapley one of our old members. During his life he was one of the Captains on the Northwestern Pacific ferry boats. ¶The lodge assembled again in San Rafael on July 8th for the funeral of Edward Walsh. For years Brother Walsh was stationed at the coaling station at California City and even with this distance to travel he was a fairly regular attendant. ¶The members assembled at our own Lodge Hall July 23rd for the funeral of Brother Frank E. Lockwood. Brother Lockwood has not been well for some time and his passing was not unexpected. Being well thought of in the community many of his friends attended to pay final tribute to Brother Lockwood."
September 1936 Bulletin
On September 29th one of our member's son is to receive his third degree and it is the desire of the Master that all of the fathers and sons of the Lodge be present so that we can have a real father and son evening. A full attendance will be appreciated by the officers. ¶We are sorry to announce that Walter Wilson has demitted to Hawaiian Lodge No. 21 of Honolulu. Walter was a long resident of Mill Valley and afterward traveled the sea with the Dollar Steamship Company. He later took a shore job and settled down in Honolulu. ¶Special Notice - Saturday evening, September 19th, Sequoia Lodge No. 349 is to have a Masonic get-together at eight o'clock, Scottish Rite Temple at 1547 Oak Street in Oakland. This meeting is in honor of the Most Worshipful Earl Warren, Grand Master of Masons in California and Past Master of Sequoia Lodge. According to the notice, third degree is to be conferred by a special degree team and entertainment will be furnished by the various Lodges in the East Bay. Any Brothers desiring to go please get in touch with the Secretary and we will make up a party."
October and November 1936 Bulletin
"Special Notice - The annual Smoker will take place on October 20th….¶On Friday, October 23, we will pay a return visit to the Military Service Lodge in San Francisco, at their meeting place at Fillmore and Sutter Streets. Our officers will put on a Second Degree. Let's show our appreciation for their visit by making our return visit a big one. ¶On Friday, October 16th, there will be an installation of officers of the DeMolay in our Lodge Hall. This installation is of particular interest for the reason that Bill Hatch is going to be installed as Master Councilor; Billy is the son of Brother Charlie Hatch. The invitation to attend is extended to the members and their ladies, and especially to the mothers and fathers of the DeMolay members. The meeting will start at 8:00, and light refreshments will be served in the banquet room after the ceremony. Many of the notables of this order will be present and an interesting evening is expected. ¶Tuesday, November 17th, will be Past Master's Night. This is always an auspicious occasion and we would like a large attendance. They are going to put on the Third Degree. ¶Wednesday, November 25th, will be the night of our annual dance and as we always have a good time on this occasion, we are looking forward to a large attendance. The usual good music will be supplied and card tables will be set up for those who do not wish to dance. ¶A recent review made of the membership of the Mill Valley Lodge has revealed the following interesting facts: Total number of members, 313; 101 Reside in Mill Valley, 35%; 87 Reside in Marin County other than Mill Valley, 27%; 52 Reside in San Francisco, 16%; 53 Reside in California, other than above, 16%; 20 Reside in other States and Countries, 6%. In the last named classification, members residing in other States and Countries, we find four in New York, three in Hawaii, two in Arizona, and one each in Pennsylvania, Alaska, Nevada, Oregon, Massachusetts, Illinois, Kansas, Washington, Colorado, Virginia and South America. It will be noted that 62% of our membership reside in Mill Valley or Marin County, and some of the 16% listed for San Francisco, actually live in Marin County, San Francisco being their mailing address only. It is also interesting to note that of the 313 active members, eight are holders of life memberships. ¶One of our illustrious Past Masters has been a steady correspondent with our sterling Past Steward, William Mott, and Bill has been complaining about the enclosure of the Southern Pacific-Golden Gate time tables. He has asked that future letters contain Key Route or some other line's schedule. The latest information sent him was to the effect that the ferries will still run after the Bridge is opened, and from information gathered we believe Bill is going to investigate this personally…"
December 1936 Bulletin
"The Past Masters turned out a superlative Third Degree on November 15th. After so many years away from active duty, the excellence of their work was commendable. The following Past Masters were present - Harvey Klyce '03, Sam Burt '07, Kent Seymour '11, Lud Koster '16, Chas. Brockoff '20, Frank Herrick '24, Fred Bagshaw '28, Jack Monzingo '29, Francis Burt '32, Fred Penn '33, Carl Fennema '34, Arthur Thomas '35 and Preston Burris, Past Master of Ferndale Lodge, who is now an active Mill Valleyite. Past Masters Bill Aitchison '23, George Cooke '14 and Geo. Harlan '12, sent messages greeting the officers and members and regretting their inability to be present. ¶Brother Earl Thacker, president of the Real Estate Board in Honolulu, was recently in San Francisco for several weeks and is now attending the National Realty Board Convention in New Orleans…. ¶We learn that one of the pastimes at Grand Lodge was the counting of the number of lights in the cross in the Commandery Hall; after many counts it was decided that there were 636 globes, and we are glad to know that this question has been at last accurately solved. ¶George Henry Dern, late Secretary of War, was an active mason in the Bodies of both the York and Scottish Rites. He was Past Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Utah and attained the Thirty-third Degree on October 21, 1936, and as such was an Honorary Member of the Supreme Council, Scottish Rite, Southern Jurisdiction. His funeral services were held in the Mormon Tabernacle. The Tabernacle offered for the purpose is the largest meeting place in the State of Utah. Upwards of eleven thousand persons were present at the services, and several times this number were unable to gain admission. The services were conducted by Rev. Elmer Goshen, 33°, former Grand Chaplain of the Supreme Council, Southern Jurisdiction. The Grand Lodge Officers, F. & A.M. conducted the funeral service at the grave, Grand Master Fischer, 33°, officiating. There were some 1200 Masons at the final rights. The active pallbearers were all Past Grand Masters and Thirty-third Degree Honorary members of the Supreme Council.
January 1937 Bulletin
"Installation of Officers, in which some of the Grand Lodge Officers will take part, will be at San Rafael on January 16th. Dinner will be served at 6:30. Any members desiring to go and not having transportation, kindly get in touch with the Secretary. ¶We are pleased to report on Brother Dwight Merriman who has just completed a successful year as President of the San Francisco Junior Chamber of Commerce. We have also learned that he has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the Exposition of 1939."
February 1937 Bulletin
Mill Valley Lodge welcomes the institution of a Bethel of Jobs Daughters as an important addition to our Masonic family. The local Bethel was instituted with impressive ceremonies on Friday evening, January 8th. Miss Jean Ortman was installed as Queen, Miss Hazel Foott is Senior and Miss Patricia Schreiber, Junior Princess. Bro. Fred Penn is Associate Guardian. Mrs. Vodie Voights is Guardian."
"Jobs Daughter's Bethel No. 119, Mill Valley, CA Sponsored by Mill Valley Lodge No. 356, F & AM of Mill Valley First Class of Candidates "Spring 1937"
1st Row: Hazel Foot, Jean Ortman, Pat Shriber
2nd Row: Marianne Chaurre, J. Chaurre, B. Kemmerer, M. Stuart, V. Snow, B. Voigts
3rd Row: D. Voigts, H. Adams, R. Kaufman, B. Penn, B. Allen, H. Simms
4th Row: N. Raney, B. Tiek, K. Heenen, M. McAnally, S. Barnes, M. Kenny, J. Sutherland
5th Row: L. McCauglh, J. Lewis, M. McLillan, Gene Roseveare (Stocking), H. Peters
6th Row: Mr. Fred Penn, F. A. Sheridan, - , R. Anderson, - , F Stuart, B. Parsan, K. Gardner, B. Wosser, Mrs. Voights.
Nb. Girls wearing tiaras and Greek key robes were principle officers: Honored Queen, Senior and Junior Princesses; Girls in plain white robes were the other officers: Guide, Marshal, Outer Guard, Inner Guard, Jr. Custodian, Sr. Custodian, Librarian, Musician, Recorder, Chaplain, Treasurer, First Messenger, Second Messenger, Fourth Messenger, and Fifth Messenger. Girls wearing motorboard caps were members of the Bethel's choir."
March and April 1937 Bulletin
"On Saturday, March 27th, we are planning a dinner in honor of a visit from the Most Worshipful Rollie W. Miller, Grand Master of Masons in California. Bro. Miller has signified his intention of being present at the dual initiation of Kent Seymour's sons. It is our wish to make this event one to be remembered. ¶Bro. Kent Seymour has been particularly active in Masonry for thirty years being a Past Master of Mill Valley Lodge, its present Treasurer and Inspector of the 51st Masonic District. ¶The dinner will be served at 6 p.m. and the cost will be 60 cents. …Following the dinner the dual Third Degree will take place in the Lodge Room. ¶The last time we had a double Initiation was on December 17, 1923, when Willard Barr and the late Harold Carotty were initiated, and the only time we have ever had brothers initiated at one time was in 1920 when the Hartwell boys, Mason and George, were initiated. ¶Jobs daughters had the first initiation and all that attended were impressed with their work. They are going to have a card party on March 12. Let's all attend and support the girls."
May, June and July 1937 Bulletin
"Following the Stated Meeting on June 1st Prof. E.E. Wood, Principal of Tamalpais High School, will give an address in connection with his recent trip through Europe. Prof. Wood has just returned from an extended trip and is well qualified to speak on the European situation. His talk will be interesting, instructive and particularly timely. All of the members as well as their Masonic friends are invited and urged to avail themselves of the opportunity to hear this address. ¶As stated in our last Bulletin, Kent and Elliot Seymour were raised to Master Mason on March 27th. Grand Master Rollie W. Miller was present. W.M. Lawrence conferred the first section and delivered the lecture. The second section was conferred by Past Master Kent Seymour. ¶There were 193 brethren that signed the register but we are sure that many present didn't sign. Of the 193 registered, members were from 24 states in the Union as well as the Philippine Islands, Hawaiian Islands, Alaska, Yukon and Scotland. Twenty two lodges in California were represented. We believe this to be one of the best attended initiations ever held in Mill Valley Lodge. ¶It seems that our out-of-town brethren are getting around and visiting other lodges. We hear that Francis Burt visited Fort Bragg Lodge and Carl Brunotte paid a visit to Esparto Lodge recently."
August 1937 Bulletin
"As it is extremely difficult for travelers to enter or leave Spain at this time, first hand news of the war is very rare in this country, and we have generally been informed by biased press reports. ¶Recently Brother Frederick Thompson returned from Madrid, Spain, where he visited his son, who is actively engaged in the Spanish war. While in Spain he had an excellent opportunity to observe conditions there, and he has kindly agreed to tell us about the true conditions in Spain. ¶Brother Thompson is eminently qualified to speak on the subject of the Spanish revolution. He will address the Lodge on the evening of August 3rd after the Stated Meeting, which will be concluded by 9:00 p.m. ¶In order to give others the opportunity to hear Brother Thompson, the immediate families of members of the Craft are invited to attend. ¶Strike bound in the Palace Hotel is Bro. Laverle Thacker, who is assistant manager of the hotel. ¶We see by the daily papers that Brother Earl Thacker came up from Hawaii to represent the Governor of the Islands at the opening of the Golden Gate Bridge. It seems that they sent a warship up especially for Earl. By the picture in the paper, he looks fine, but we wish he'd drop around in person so we could confirm it. ¶Membership report of Lodge, July 31, 1937: Gained by Raising: 6; Affiliation, 3; Restoration, 1; Total Gain 10. Members lost by Demit, 7; by death, 2; Total loss 9. Net gain, one member; total Master Masons in good standing, July 31, 1937 = 311. ¶One of the charming sections of our Masonic family is going to pay us a visit. Mill Valley Bethel of Job's Daughters will initiate several new members of their Order on Tuesday, August 24th, at 8:00 p.m. [A special post card followed the bulletin renewing the invitation.]"
September and October 1937 Bulletin
"Save Tuesday, October 26th, for our Annual Smoker and Entertainment; we're prepared for a large turnout. The usual good show and fine eats are present. [Featured Goldyne Danseuse; Connie Mitchell, Hollywood Sound Man; Bill Lyons, Ventriloquist; Lucille Blake, Pianist; Emily Hoffman, Prima Donna; Lou Emmel, Master of Ceremonies.] ¶On Tuesday, August 24th, the Job's Daughters exemplified their degrees for the brothers and their work was excellent. ¶Those who did not hear Brother Fredrick Thompson deliver his talk on Spain after our Stated Meeting in August missed one of the highlights of the year. After hearing his talk you had an altogether different view of the Spanish trouble. ¶On September 14th Bro. Wm. P. Bear of the Pacific Gas and Electric Co. will give an address on the Golden Gate International Exposition. Mr. Bear is one of the regular speakers form the Publicity Department of the Exposition. This is one evening that you will enjoy. It is open to members of the Craft. Come and bring another member. Also slides illustrating Treasure Island."
Special Post Card to members: "All Master Masons are invited to be present at the institution of M.V. Chapter, Order of DeMolay - Wednesday evening, Oct. 27, 1937, 7:45 p.m."
November and December 1937 Bulletin
The Officers' Dinner will be held at Sonoma on Monday November 15th, at 6:30 p.m. ¶On his trip east, Bro. Eddie Donlon broke into radio fame on the Vox Pop program - after a few warming-up questions, Eddie finally hit his stride when the announcer began asking him questions about baseball. ¶Bro. Dick Lawrence has been transferred to Albuquerque as a Special Agent for the Fireman's Fund Insurance Co. and will not be able to preside for the remaining portion of his year. We are all very sorry to have him leave us, but rejoice with him in this further step in his business success. ¶The DeMolay Chapter which was instituted on October 27th is to have an election of officers on November 10th, and a date will be given later for their Installation of Officers.
At the December 18th Installation, a number of musical selections punctuated the Installation of the officers: "I Love Life" by Manna Zucca; "Tramp at Sea" by Stothart; "Carmencita" Youll-Francisco; "Rose Marie" by Friml; "Thine Alone" by Herbert; "Rose of my Heart" by Lohr. These were performed by Bro. Robert E. Saxe, Bro. James Isherwood, and Bro. Louis R. Flint, Organist.
February 1938 Bulletin
"At our Stated Meeting Bro. William Pinkey of Hamilton Field will tell us of some of the things that the Army is doing to explore and develop the resources of Alaska. His subject will be "The Army in Alaska." Bro. Pinky has spent about eleven years in Alaska and during that time did much traveling throughout the territory. He is deeply interested in Alaska and his subject is a timely one. ¶Brother Dick Lawrence returned from New Mexico for the Christmas holidays and received his Past Master's Jewel at the January Stated Meeting. ¶The DeMolay is [sic] to have a card party on Tuesday night, February 8th. The tickets will be 35c and we would like a large attendance. Valuable prizes. ¶We are to have two motion pictures presented by the Union Oil Company. These pictures will be shown after our Stated Meeting of March 1st. This meeting will be open to families and friends of the members. Lets have a large crowd. The titles of the pictures are: "California Highways," and "The Devil's Playground." These pictures are both sound films."
March 1938 Bulletin
"The Marin Masonic Luncheon Club meets every Friday at the Travelers Hotel, San Rafael. March 25th, a special program by the Chevrolet Motor, which will include a motion picture. ¶The members of Mill Valley Lodge have been invited by Dr. Lynn T. White to attend the Mill Valley Community Church on Palm Sunday, April 10th. We will meet at the Lodge Hall at 7:15 p.m. and go to the church together. We wish to let Bro. White know how many brethren to expect, and all who plan to attend should notify the Master or one of the Officers."
April 1938 Bulletin
"The week beginning April 25, 1938, has been designated Public Schools Week. This annual observance is for the purpose of stimulating the interest of all persons in our public school system. Appropriate exercises in our vicinity will be held on the following dates: Sausalito - April 27, 1938; Larkspur-Corte Madera - April 27, 1938; Mill Valley - April 29, 1938; Tamalpais High School - May 1, 1938. Your attendance on these occasions is necessary, as evidence that Masons support this activity, which was originated by our Grand Lodge. ¶Tuesday, April 12, 1938, is municipal election day throughout the state. It is the civic duty of every citizen, particularly Masons, to vote at every election. Go to the polls in your locality on April 12, 1938, and do your part in maintaining good government. ¶Brother Frank F. Bostwick has been appointed Tax Collector of the town of Mill Valley, replacing Brother Frank L. Hemsted, who recently passed away. Mill Valley Lodge congratulates Brother Bostwick and wishes him every success in his new position.
A special announcement was made that following the Stated Meeting of May 3, at about 9:00 p.m. Bro. Don Jose F. Aubertine, D.D.S., a member of Parnassus Lodge was to speak on "What is Happening Behind the Scenes in Mexico." Bro. Aubertine had recently returned from one of his trips to Mexico, and in addition to his talk, was to show color motion pictures taken during his trip.
May 1938 Bulletin
"Bro. Willard Barr, who is apparently well known to the traffic fraternity in San Francisco, has been transferred from his former position at Klamath Falls, and promoted to the position of general agent at Salt Lake City. ¶On Palm Sunday, April 10, 1938, at the invitation of Bro. Lynn T. White, thirty members of our Lodge attended the Mill Valley Community Church. Masonry makes few public appearances and in such cases a good attendance is necessary for the good reputation of the fraternity. We are pleased to report the success of this event."
June 1938 Bulletin
"The Worshipful Master has appointed "Doc" Piercy chairman of the committee for Lodge Room History as sent out by the Grand Lodge. At the Stated Meeting of June 5th, Brother Piercy will give the first talk. ¶On May 11th Brothers Piercy, Fennema, F. Sandstrom, G. Sandstrom, Parsley and S. Bagshaw visited Woodstock Lodge in Alameda to witness the conferring of the Third Degree upon an employee of the S.P.G.G. Ferries. The work was performed in an excellent manner by Past Masters, and your officers benefited by the visit. We would like to know why Brothers Piercy and Fennema permitted a co-worker to join another Lodge. ¶On May 18th Mill Valley Lodge conducted funeral services for our late Brother Edward A. Southworth, a member of Hawaiian Lodge No. 21. Bro. Southworth was an early resident of Mill Valley and was well known to many of our members. He was an uncle of Brothers Earl and Wilber Thacker, members of our Lodge, and was a brother of Mrs. Effie Thacker. Bro. Southworth will be long remembered for his friendly and cheerful disposition, and his outstanding display of fortitude and determination.
August 1938 Bulletin
The Lodge conferred two Third Degrees. "The loan on our Lodge building is now paid in full. At our August stated meeting there was a general discussion of our future financial policies, and at our September stated meeting the subject will be again considered so that all interested members may be present and participate. The Finance Committee should have the benefit of the opinions of a representative group of our membership and you are urged to be present at our next stated meeting. ¶We are sorry to report the passing of Brothers B.C. Moore and Past Master Alonzo Coffin. While Brother Coffin was a resident of Mill Valley he served the Town as Trustee for many years. ¶Brother Hugh Rutherford has been appointed to the County Planning Commission. ¶The semi-annual report of the secretary showed the membership of the Lodge July 31, 1937, as 311 Master Masons, and a gain by affiliation and raising of 5, making a total of 316. Lost by death and suspension, 8; leaving a net total of 308, as of July 31, 1938. There are 3 Fellowcrafts, and when these are raised to Master Masons the total will be the same as a year ago. [Bro. Frederick F. Runyan] was the first candidate to receive the degrees in this Lodge: First - August 18, 1903; Second - August 27, 1903; Third - September 3, 1903. ¶On Sunday, June 12, Bro. Frank Bostwick and his wife, Isabel, celebrated their Golden Wedding Anniversary at their home in Mill Valley. This event was not only important to Bro. Bostwick, but also to Mill Valley Lodge and to the people of Mill Valley. The Bostwicks moved to Mill Valley about 40 years ago and their present home was built at that time by Bro. Harvey Klyce. During these years Bro. Bostwick contributed much to the development of Mill Valley, and Mil Valley Lodge is proud to count him as one of its members.
September 1938 Bulletin
"At our September Stated Meeting a resolution to amend our By-Laws in respect to the annual dues, was presented and will be voted upon at our October Stated Meeting. If this resolution is not adopted the dues will remain at the present rate, and will probably continue without change for some time to come, because the recommendations of the Finance Committee have been approved by a large majority vote. ¶Inasmuch as the financial operations of a Masonic Lodge are directly controlled by its membership, it is essential that a representative group of our members participate in all voting, particularly on such an important question as the annual rate of dues. You are urged to be present at our October Stated Meeting so that the will of the majority may be clearly expressed and a satisfactory decision made. ¶It is planned to have a Past Master's Night on Saturday evening, October 1. The program will include a dinner at 6:30 p.m., followed by a Third Degree. At the conclusion of the meeting we will burn the mortgage on the building and celebrate the attainment of this long-sought-for objective. ¶It is with a great deal of regret that we report the passing of Brother John S. Wotila on August 23, 1938. For many years Brother Wotila was a Captain on the Northwestern Pacific ferry boats, and was well known in that organization. The loss of Brother Wotila has deprived Mill Valley Lodge of one of its very generous brethren, and he will be long remembered for his charitable nature. ¶Within the next few months the Hall Association will select a successor to Bro. Springett in the job of maintaining our Lodge building. Any member who wishes to be considered for this position should make application to the Master."
A letter from the Master, Sam G. Bagshaw, urged attendance at the October Stated Meeting where a vote would be taken on whether to reduce the dues from $15 per year to $12 per year. At the time the dues were increased to $15 it was with the understanding that it was to reduce the loan on the building.
October 1938 Bulletin
"On Saturday evening, October 1, 1938, the Past Masters of our Lodge conferred the Third Degree, and we celebrated our thirty-fifth anniversary by burning our promissory note, which was finally paid last July. It was a very happy occasion for Mill Valley Lodge. ¶ At our October Stated Meeting we voted on the proposed amendment to our By-Laws, which would reduce our annual dues to $12.00, and the motion lost by a vote of 10 to 46, leaving the dues at $15.00. ¶The Finance Committee will see to it that at least 20% of all dues collected at the $15.00 rate is set aside in a reserve fund for future emergencies. The Lodge is now assured of future security from indebtedness and broader application of our charitable principles. ¶The Mill Valley Bethel of Job's Daughters have been invited to confer its Majority Degree in our lodge room on Tuesday evening, October 25, 1938. There will be refreshments and entertainment following the degree. Everyone is invited. ¶On Friday evening, October 28, 1938, the DeMolay boys of Mill Valley will present an entertainment at the Old Mill School auditorium. Tickets can be purchased from any DeMolay boy, or from their advisor, Brother Ed Donlan. ¶Bro. "Doc" Piercy has invented an automatic garage door opener which, when operated from the driver's seat, gives off an odor of burning rubber. San Francisco Fire Department please note. ¶An effort is being made to account for kitchen and banquet hall equipment which has been lost from our Lodge building. We would greatly appreciate the immediate return of Lodge equipment, borrowed by members or others, so that it will not be necessary to purchase more replacements. ¶Brother Arthur Thomas, P.M., reports driving through sixty miles of snow on a recent week-end trip to Bishop, in the high Sierras. He and Brother Kelsey attended an annual gathering of Royal Arch masons, for the apparent purpose of a venison feed."
December 17, 1938 Installation of Norman Brandt Wehr: Bros. Robert E. Saxe and James Isherwood were vocal artists; Bro. William W. Carruth was their accompanist. They sang, "Song of Songs," "There'll Never be One Like You," "Out of the Dusk to You," "All For You," "The Lord's Prayer," "When I Grow Too Old to Dream," and "Song of the Open Road."
December 1938 Bulletin
The Lodge conferred a First, Second, and Third Degree. "As the year draws to a close, I wish to express my gratitude to each member of our Lodge for the opportunity given me, through Masonry, to gain an invaluable experience. The Master's duties are of such a varied nature that no man who passes through the East can avoid absorbing some of the benefits that naturally follow the effort to be of some service to others. ¶In my associations with our members and their families, I feel that I have gained new friends an, I hope, strengthened old friendships. If I have gained one new friend, or brought happiness to one person during the past year, then the job has been worth-while for me, for there could be no richer reward. ¶We are very fortunate to have the opportunity, through Masonry, to be a friend and to have friends. A visit to a sick brother, good counsel to one in trouble, or an expression of sincere sympathy in the loss of a loved one, are oftentimes the simple means of creating much happiness. ¶I am very grateful to you, my brethren, for your confidence, and for one of the finest experiences of my life. - S.G. Bagshaw, Master"
January 1939 Bulletin
"Our new officers had an early opportunity to confer a Second and Third Degree. Our new brother, William G. Seaver, sailed for the Orient on December 30, 1938, and by diligent effort was able to receive his Third Degree on December 29, 1938. We are glad to welcome Brother Seaver, and to congratulate our officers for their fine work. ¶The work of the committee on Masonic Education, under the direction of Brother Piercy, will continue on Tuesday evening, January 17, 1939. These discussions on Masonic subjects have been very interesting and it will be well worth your time to participate."
February 1939 Bulletin
Mill Valley Chapter R.A.M. will visit as a body on our Stated Meeting, February 7th. This is the first visit of this kind for some time and a goodly turnout is expected. So far all speakers have disappointed us, but there are still cards and billiards for entertainment after the meetings. ¶A Masonic education night will be held on February 14th; under the astute directorship of our learned Brother Piercy, a resume of Masonry in early California will be presented. We have had small but interested groups at our past meetings and really hope for a good showing for this meeting. ¶Brothers Kent Seymour and Fred Penn acted as Master of Ceremonies and Installing Officer respectively at the installations of Temple Lodge and Vitruvius Lodge. …Vitruvius Lodge had an open installation which was very well attended."
March 1939 Bulletin
"On March 21st Carl Fennema, P.M., will give an address on the history of Mill Valley Lodge as part of the Masonic Education evening. Brother Carl is going back to the inception of the Lodge and show its progress, and if any of the old timers have any interesting anecdotes or experiences, Carl would like to hear of them. ¶In line with the above paragraph, our Secretary is making a scrapbook containing all the old bulletins he can gather. Anyone having one or more old bulletins, if they would mail or turn them in to Brother Jake, they would be appreciated. ¶On the newly appointed Mill Valley Park and Playground Commission consisting of nine members, are two members of Mill Valley Lodge, - Brothers Carl Fennema and David G. Hudtloff. Brother Fennema was made chairman of the commission. The commission will act in an advisory capacity to the City Council in connection with operation of the newly acquired Mill Valley Municipal Golf Course, as well as in connection with other park and playground activities in Mill Valley. ¶The Grand Master's visit to the 51st District on February 27th at Sonoma was a very enjoyable affair. Twenty members of Mill Valley Lodge were present, along with approximately one hundred and forty members of other Lodges. The Grand Master [Whitsell] gave a most interesting talk and the stories about Masonry, of which he as an inexhaustible fund were more that enjoyed by everyone present. ¶On March 28th we hope to have a slightly different evening than we have had in the past, so if you will hold this evening open, and the arrangements are consummated, we will look for an enjoyable evening." A special post card announced there would be an Outdoor Night on the 28th, featuring films on baseball and fishing and J.P. Cuenin the Hunting & Fishing Editor of the Examiner was to tell the Lodge how to hunt and fish.
April 1939 Bulletin
"The outdoor night which was held on March 28th was enjoyed by all present. The baseball picture was quite good; but our baseball expert, Eddie Donlon, was not present to comment on it. Mr. Cuenin of the Rod and Gun section of the Examiner demonstrated to all the fishermen present that they still had plenty to learn. P.M. Bro. Penn said that even he would like to try it. ¶Our past Educational Nights have been well attended. Bro. Carl Fennema, P.M., at the last meeting gave a most interesting story of the history of Mill Valley Lodge and those who attended along with me, will thank Bro. Carl for his really thorough study of the past stated minutes and odd incidents of our Lodge. Our next Educational Night will be on interesting incidents or anecdotes of Masonic History. ¶P.M. Bro. Carl Fennema will talk after the Stated Meeting on the Park and Playground Commission's aims. ¶On Sunday, April 23rd, Dr. White has invited us to attend the Community Church as a body. This has always been a delightful affair, as Dr. White has always has a fine message which is couched in our own language. We will assemble at the Lodge Hall at 7:45 [sic 7:15 corrected by post card] p.m. and go to the Church as a body. The ladies are invited to attend as well and should go directly to the Church."
May 1939 Bulletin
"On May 16th the Job's Daughters and the Order of DeMolay will entertain our lodge and its ladies with an entertainment entitled "A Night in Paris." Bring the family, as this promises to be an interesting evening. Refreshments will be served after the entertainment. ¶The Mill Valley Chapter R.A.M. will give a barn dance on May 27th. This is always enjoyed by those who attend, so be sure to be there. There will be a small admission charge. ¶May 23rd will be the first Entered Apprentice Degree to be conferred by the present corps of officers, so plan to be there. ¶Brother Arthur Thomas has been elected Grand King of the R.A.M. in California. We all wish him the best of success in this high position. ¶Brother Roy Ewing will show his moving pictures, taken on his trip around the world, after the next stated meeting. They will take about an hour to show and should prove to be most interesting."
June and July 1939 Bulletin
"Ladies' Night on May 16th was enjoyed by all those present. The group of girls and boys from Job's Daughters and DeMolay gave a fine performance. Mrs. Raeburn, the director, deserves credit for her able coaching. ¶Bro. Piercy, after a month's rest has prepared another treatise on Masonic history. The last talk "Doc" gave us was by far the most interesting of the present series. We will look forward to the one he has prepared of June 27th. ¶The First Degree put on by our Junior Warden, Bro. Irv Low, was an exceptional piece of ritualistic work. Bro. Low certainly deserved the congratulations he received."
August 1939 Bulletin
"It is with a great feeling of sorrow that we report the passing away of tow of our well known brothers - Brother Frank Bostwick and Brother Frank Airey. Their presence will always be missed. [The Record ran a full page article about Bro. Bostwick's life which was appended to the Lodge's scrap book.] ¶The DeMolays and Masons played (or, at least, tried to play) the great American game of baseball on Sunday, June 11th, at Boyles Park. To everyone's surprise, the OLD BOYS edged out their young rivals by the overwhelming score of 14 to 13. Even the partiality shown the DeMolays by Umpire Eddie Donlon couldn't stop the irresistible power of the OLD BOYS' batting prowess. There were quite a few incidents worthy of notice; when Kent Seymour, Jr., ran to the pitcher's box instead of to home it put all others to shame. The degree work put on the following Tuesday was interspersed with creaking joints and moans of anguish. The DeMolays want a return match - BUT. ¶Brother Piercy again gave an interesting and instructive Educational Night program on June 27th, and we look forward to the one he contemplates giving on August 22nd." Special notice was sent for an August 29th Masonic Card Game - Whist and Bridge - with a door prize and prizes.
September 1939 Bulletin
Past Masters' Night will be held Saturday, September 16th; dinner will precede the degree work and will be held at 7:15 p.m. This will be the only opportunity to see the P.M.'s in action, so plan on being at this meeting. ¶Brother Lloyd Wilson, Junior Grand Warden, will give an address on "The Constitution" on September 26th. This meeting is an open one, so be sure to bring your family and friends. Bro. Wilson is an exceptional speaker and we are very fortunate in having him come to Mill Valley. ¶Mill Valley Chapter, Order of DeMolay will receive their charter on September 13th, so if possible, all Masons should attend this meeting. DeMolay Day will be celebrated at the Fair on October 1, 1939. ¶A small but very congenial crowd enjoyed an evening of cards on August 29th. Roy Springett won first prize at whist and Mrs. Philips took first prize at bridge. Mrs. Fennema won the door prize and as her young daughter drew the ticket - we wonder."
October 1939 Bulletin
The Lodge conferred a Second Degree on Halloween. "Our Past Master's Night on September 16th was muchly enjoyed by all those present. A very fine degree was put on by the Past Masters who were present in large numbers. ¶Our Junior Grand Warden, Brother Lloyd Wilson, gave a very fine speech on the "Constitution" on Sept. 26th. A very small attendance greeted the speaker. October 11 is Masonic Day at Treasure Island and as the Exposition is drawing near its close, be sure to attend this day."
November 1939 Bulletin
As noted above the Order of DeMolay will confer the DeMolay Degree on the evening of Nov. 14th, this will be the only time this year that the boys will put on their work so every Mason able to come should be there. ¶Tues., Nov. 21st will be our Annual Smoker, good food and entertainment are assured so be on hand with the boys at 8:15 p.m. ¶The Third Degree of Nov. 28th will be the last Degree to be conferred in the lode for this year so make this meeting one to be remembered."
December 16, 1939 Installation of Stanley Carlton Aitchison: Bros. Robert E. Saxe and James Isherwood were vocal artists; Bro. William W. Carruth was their accompanist. They sang, "Home on the Range," "A Little Song of Life," "In the Garden of Your Heart," "Banjo Song," "Nobody Knows the Trouble I've Seen," "Serenade," and "Rag Man."
February 1940 Bulletin
"We recently learned that after 46½ years of association with W.P. Fuller, Bro. Frank Herrick, P.M., retired. …¶Congratulations to Bro. Horace Coffin, P.M., who celebrated his 75th Birthday recently. Baker Hamilton & Pacific honored him with a luncheon. He has been with the firm 59 years and is not retiring. ¶Bro. Carl Fennema, P.M., has taken the position of Vice-President and General Manager of the Wilmington Transportation Co. at San Pedro, Calif. Bro. Carl's family is moving down soon. Good luck, we're with you. ¶On January 31st the Order of DeMolay had their Installation of Officers and Majority Degree. All those present witnessed a wonderful installation. ¶Bro. Hugh Rutherford received a letter from Bro. Dorset Phillips who recently received his degrees here and was moved to Fresno shortly after. He is practicing law in Fresno now. He wishes to be remembered to all the Brothers who helped him receive his degrees."
March 1940 Bulletin
The Lodge conferred a First Degree and two Second Degrees. "Bro. Bill Seaver sends greetings from Seattle where he is stationed with the American President Lines. He reports he visited a lodge there and they had a very nice oyster stew for refreshment. ¶Bro. A. E. Case has been transferred to Alaska with the Customs Dept. He is provision officer there." A testimonial dinner was given in honor of recently retired Inspector, Kent J.C. Seymour, on Saturday, March 30th at 7:00 p.m. at the Blue Rock, Larkspur.
April 1940 Bulletin
"On March 30th the Officers of the 51st District gave Bro. Kent J.C. Seymour a dinner at Larkspur Blue Rock Inn for the many years he served as Inspector of this District. A very nice time was had by all. ¶The DeMolay boys have publicly challenged the Lodge to another game of baseball. They are after revenge for the defeat they suffered last year. The date is tentatively set for April 28th. Any Bro. wishing to participate please see Bro. Roy Springett. ¶Do you know that Bro. William Muller saved his Russian River home during the recent floods by anchoring it with huge ropes to the sturdy Redwood trees. Good work, Bill. ¶The Royal Arch Chapter is giving a "Barn Dance" on Saturday, April 13th, in Masonic Hall. Admission 35c. There will be refreshments and door prizes. You and your friends are cordially invited."
May 1940 Bulletin
The Lodge conferred a Third Degree. "Public Schools Week was a very interesting display of the work the children are doing in the schools. Exhibits were very well attended by the public. The Master is sorry to say, 'the Brothers didn't attend as they should have'."
June 1940 Bulletin
The Lodge conferred a Second Degree and a Third Degree. "Congratulations are in order for Brother Pingree of Corte Madera, who has been appointed Chief of Police. All the success in the world on your new job. ¶We know those who were present on the evening of June 4th, (at which time we paid tribute to Brother Kent Seymour, retiring Inspector) enjoyed themselves and those who were not present missed a very good evening. The music of the Mill Valley Singers contributed greatly to the enjoyment. ¶The Job's Daughters ran away with the majority of the prices at the Sesquicentennial celebration in Mill Valley. The Berkeley Bethel No. 52 won the Drum and Bugle Corps prize, while the local Bethel of Mil Valley won the prize for the best float. From the information received, we believe that Brother Penn had something to do with this. ¶Tuesday, June 11th, Fairfax Lodge is coming down to put on a Third Degree and the Master would like to see a good turnout to greet the Boy from over the hill. ¶Brethren Arthur Thomas and Bill Muller bring greetings to the brethren from Carl Fennema. We will undoubtedly have a fuller report on Bro. Carl when Kent and Mrs. Seymour return from their vacation at Catalina Island." A new furnace was installed and was ready for inspection by the Lodge members at the Stated Meeting of August 6, 1940.
The local paper carried an article about the tribute to K.J.C. Seymour. "The occasion was the retirement of Seymour after 19 years of service as inspector of the 51st Masonic District, in which position he is being succeeded by Frederick A. Penn. Masters and Past Masters of lodges at Sonoma, Bloomfield, Petaluma, Fairfax, San Rafael, and Mill Valley told of the service he had rendered them and their lodges and expressed their thanks and appreciation for this. A check for $105 was given him as a tangible evidence of their appreciation. Mr. and Mrs. Seymour plan a trip to British Columbia in the immediate future."
August 1940 Bulletin
The Lodge conferred the Third Degree. "Mill Valley Lodge will journey to Bloomfield sometime in September, to confer the 3rd Degree on one of their candidates. A reciprocal engagement is scheduled at Mill Valley, later in the month. ¶At the August Stated Meeting, the Stewards prepared a wonderful 'crab feed' for 125. Only 50 were present, but they did full justice for the absentees. ¶There will be a 3rd degree the last Tuesday in August, which will be jointly conferred by a Mill Valley Past Master and a San Francisco Past Master."
September 1940 Bulletin
The Third Degree was conferred by Bloomfield Lodge at Mill Valley. "September is to be a very active month. Three outstanding events are to take place; and which the brethren would do well to attend. Mill Valley officers will journey to Bloomfield to confer the 3rd degree on Saturday, September 14. There will be a dinner at 630 p.m. and all desiring to attend should notify the master, so proper reservations can be made. On Tuesday, September 24, Bloomfield will be our guests. Owing to the difficulty of these brethren to arrive early, there will be no dinner, but refreshments following the degree. ¶Wednesday, September 11, there will be a meeting of the San Francisco Lodges, at which time the Grand Master will pay an official visit, followed by a play, 'Judge Not'." A special notice announced that the Hon. Elmer E. Robinson, Superior Court Judge of San Francisco would attend and speak at the districts Constitutional Observance.
October 1940 Bulletin
The Lodge conferred a First Degree. "Saturday, October 19th the Past Masters will show the brethren how it's done. Don't miss this event. Dinner will be put on by the Junior Steward and will be served at 6:30 p.m. ¶At our last stated meeting the subject of visiting our sick brethren was brought up. From all reports we have been very lax in this matter. This is a privilege every Mason should be happy to perform, and which every sick brother has a right to expect. ¶October 22nd the DeMolay boys will put on a degree. Let's give them the support they deserve by filling the side lines. ¶On October 25th there will be a card party at the Hall, given by Job's Daughters." A special letter from the Master [S.C. Aitchison] announced that at the November Stated Meeting, a proposal to lower dues from $15 to $12 dollars per year would be considered. In a post script, the Master added, "After the meeting our new radio will give you the latest election returns."
November 1940 Bulletin
"On Nov. 20 we will have our Annual Thanksgiving Dance. Invitations will be sent out in the near future, for members and their friends. Our congenial Senior Warden, Irving Low, will furnish the music. From all reports this orchestra has what it takes to make a good dance, so let's all go and have a real time. ¶Nov. 17th we will pay our annual respect to the Church by attending 'en masse.' We will leave the Masonic Hall at 7:00 p.m. Every brother should make a special effort to be present. ¶Nov. 13 the DeMolay boys are giving a card party, and invite the brethren to support them."
December 1940 Bulletin
It was reported that the Lodge raised five brothers during 1940. "At the regular stated meeting in November, the question of reducing the dues was brought up, and those present voted to have them remain as is. ¶Bro. Ernest A. Asmus, one of our members at the Masonic Home, passed away. ¶Don't forget your tickets for the Annual Gridiron Classic, given by the Shriners every New Year's Day. ¶The brethren who missed the Annual Thanksgiving Dance missed a very enjoyable evening. Fine music and the same kind of people. ¶Due to 'flu' the hospital at Fort Miley has been closed to visitors. The Southern Pacific Hospital is still open. Bro. Wm. Aitchison is convalescing, and would enjoy visitors. Brethren during the coming Holiday Season, let us all make a special effort to bring a little cheer and happiness to our less fortunate brethren, by visiting the sick, or even dropping them a line. Let them know we are thinking of them."
At the December 14th Installation, a number of musical selections punctuated the Installation of the officers: "Give a Man a Horse He can Ride" by O'Hara; "The Builder" by Cadman; "La Golondrina [The Swallow]" a Mexican Folk Song; "Without a Song" by Youmans; "Cosi Cosa" by Kaper & Jurmann; "Rose of my Heart" by Lohr. These were performed by Bro. Robert E. Saxe, Bro. James Isherwood.
January 1941 Bulletin
"The brethren who attended the installation ceremonies December 14th were deeply impressed with the new Master's [Irvine Tinsdale Low] message on Peace and Harmony. With most of the world in a state of chaos, it is apparent that the tenets of Freemasonry are becoming more and more significant. ¶The new officers had their baptism of fire, when they conferred the Second Degree upon two candidates December 28th. Our Senior Deacon performing under a double load came thru [sic] with flying colors, as did the Senior Warden. ¶Our Master has decreed that following labor there shall be refreshments, so let us labor mightily by supporting the officers with greater attendance at stated meetings and all the degrees. Afterwards gather 'round the refreshment board and enjoy the fellowship of your brothers and prove to the stewards that their efforts are appreciated."
February 1941 Bulletin
"The Officers were quite gratified with the number of brothers on the side lines at the 3rd degree of Jan. 28, and trust they enjoyed the work as fully as the Officers enjoyed their presence. Thank you, brothers, come again, and often." Reports were beginning to come in about where brethren were serving in the military: Lt. Dick Sloan with the U.S. Artillery unit; Lt. Col. Harold Johnson in the U.S. Army.
March 1941 Bulletin
The Lodge conferred a Third Degree. "Brother Tom Irvine has been elected president of the Marin Board of Realtors. ¶Several of the brothers journeyed to Sacramento on Feb. 10th and visited Provident Lodge. The occasion was the raising of Bro. Curtis Hoffman." It was reported that Sr. Warden Gordon Sandstrom was now employed at Mare Island Navy Yard.
April 1941 Bulletin
The bulletin was expanded. "Public Schools Week in California begins this year on April 28. The purpose of this annual observance is to have the public in general and the parents of school children in particular, informed of the real condition of our public schools, and of their needs, aims, purposes, and achievements. And this can best be done by visits to the schools, and an intelligent cooperation with those charged with the operation of our public institutions of learning. Although instituted and fostered by the Masonic Fraternity, the observance has developed generally into a community affair, and is no longer considered a Masonic event. However the continued support of the Fraternity to this observance is highly desirable. The Grand Master considers this support necessary, and has decreed that, 'no work be done in any Lodge on a night on which there is any gathering for the observance of Public Schools Week in the city or town in which the Lodge is located, and if it can be conveniently done, every Masonic Lodge in the jurisdiction remains dark during that week. [A complete list of all local events in Southern Marin followed thereafter in the Bulletin.] ¶Bro. Frank Schaal has been called to service for duty in New York. He holds a Major's commission. Soldiering is no new job for Frank, as he served his country in the World War of1917."
May 1941 Bulletin
"As novitiates, we received instructions as to the relative differences between Operative and Speculative Masonry; and while we, as Speculative Masons do not actually operate, in the building of Free Masonry, with our hands we are in a particularly favored position to advance by precept and example, the principles of Free Masonry. Many of our brethren dispersed around the globe have, in actual fact been dispersed, and forced to suspend their pursuits, for the time being at least. Their temples have been destroyed but the alters still burn brightly in the hearts of the scattered members. But the day will come when Masonry will bloom again, stronger, more alive, more intensified than ever before. It is for us privileged ones here, to keep alive the fires of active Craftsmanship, and offer, by our actions, the encouragement sorely needed by our European brethren. ¶Those of you who did not hear Grand Master Lloyd Wilson lost something that can never be regained. The Grand Master is a forceful speaker and his talk on Masonry in a Changing World was an inspiration to those in attendance. ¶Mill Valley Lodge is signally honored in having one it its members, Bro. Arthur Thomas, elected Grand High Priest of Royal Arch masons of California. Bro. Thomas, Past Master of Mill Valley Lodge is recognized by the membership for his sincerity and interest in Masonic activities. All success to you, Arthur. ¶Bro. Bill Seaver has been sent to Shanghai, China, there, to represent his firm as its agent. Bill is moving right up in the shipping game and we expect to hear a lot of good things about him in future years. We wish you the best of everything Bill. ¶Bro. Jim Robertson suffered severe shock and bruises when he fell twelve feet from a roof, on which he was working. He was taken to Ross Hospital, by Bro. Rod Hartman and put to bed for observation. Bro. Doc. Reports that while Bro. Jim was suffering from shock and a slight concussion, that rest and time would see him as good as new. Can't hurt a tough Scotsman, eh, Jim? ¶Bro. C.H. Becker, our oldest member, is confined to an Oakland hospital. At last report he was showing some improvement in his condition and we trust that the will continue to do so. The best of luck to you Bro. Becker. ¶In Washington, D.C., the Scottish Rites sick committee discovered Bro. H. Hyde ill in Walter Reed Hospital and so informed the Lodge. He has since written to Bro. Olin Kelsey and, while he is improved somewhat he is still quite ill. But not too ill but to be able to kid Olin about a good crap shooter making a good Chaplain. How about it Olin, are you hiding the secrets of a misspent youth?
June 1941 Bulletin
"We observed the Worshipful Master and Bro. Stein Hope casting speculative eyes over the antiquated lighting fixtures in the lodge room and assure from their contemplative air that they were estimating the probable cost of replacing the offending fixtures with more modern ones. This will be a highly desirable change as the present system is most trying to one's eyes. Without undue hardships these improvements can be made, one by one and ultimately the entire Temple can be renovated. After the lights, let's look into the kitchen and correct some conditions that exist there. Thus, we can beautify the building and at the same time protect an investment of many thousands of dollars."
August 1941 Bulletin
Mill Valley Lodge joined Petaluma Lodge at Petaluma to confer the First Section of the Third Degree. "The Worshipful Master has arranged to have Brother Clinton T. Duffy, Warden of San Quentin Prison (and Junior Warden of Marin Lodge), address the brethren at our stated meeting of September 2nd. Brother Duffy will speak on 'The Evolution of San Quentin Prison.' San Quentin's Warden is a gifted and talented speaker, much sought after by many organizations who are anxious to hear his intensely interesting discourse, on what goes on behind the walls of the world's largest prison. This writer has been privileged to listen to Clinton Duffy speak on several occasions, and can assure the brethren that no finer entertainment, or human interest story, can be found or heard elsewhere. Inside the walls, Brother Duffy is sincerely trying to accomplish a really worth-while work, and is deserving of the highest praise. We must have an exceptionally good attendance on this night, to assure our speaker that we appreciate hearing him. The Stewards have promised to out-do themselves in the matter of refreshments, so be there brothers, and bring a Mason with you. It is an occasion you will never regret attending. The Worshipful Master [Irving T. Low] is to be highly commended for arranging so splendid a program. ¶Funeral services were conducted by Mill Valley Lodge for our late Bro. F.D. Caldwell of Sausalito, on Friday, July 11th, and also for our late Bro. James G. Saxton, father of Bros. Stanley Saxton and J.G. Saxton, P.M., on Saturday, July 19th. We soberly reflect that we are all traveling upon that level of time toward that undiscovered country from whose born no traveler returns. ¶To work under the new lights in the lodge room at our last stated meeting, was a pleasure indeed. The soft, indirect yet completely diffused light is far superior to the old lights. And we also have a fine new stove and a steam table in the kitchen. Our progressive Master is getting things done."
September 1941 Bulletin
"This night will go down s one of the outstanding meetings of the year. An excellent crowd was present, including a goodly number of visitors as well as Mill Valley members. Every bother there, I am sure, left the Lodge Room deeply impressed with Warden Duffy's splendid presentation of the changing conditions taking place within the walls of San Quentin Prison. Brother Duffy is indeed, in this writer's opinion, one of the most outstanding an best informed students of criminology in the nation. The reformations he has brought about since he assumed the Wardenship of San Quentin, by his ability to recognize convicts as human beings instead of numbers and his keen, clear analysis of the mental attitude of prison inmates, has won for him the admiration and confidence of those unfortunates as well as that of free men outside the walls. ¶In the near future there is to be a Masonic Night held at San Quentin prison. The entertainment, music by the prison orchestra and a vaudeville show, will be wholly conducted by inmates of the prison. The show will consist of short skits and an act of tumblers. A fine meal will be served in the world's largest dining room at the nominal price of fifty cents. This meal could not be duplicated anywhere for less than two or three dollars. ¶Other organizations, who have been privileged to attend these functions have brought back the word that there is nothing in the world like it. In fact they report that it is a $5 meal and a $5 show all for 50c. Warden Duffy has announced that he expects to entertain about 1000 Masons on that day and is going ahead with preparations on that basis. The date has not yet been named, brothers, BUT watch for it, and be sure to go. [Special post card was sent giving details of the October 9, 1941 Masonic Night at San Quentin Prison featuring a "De Luxe Dinner" and a "2½ hour vaudeville show by some of the inmates of the institution." The event was by reservation only, with reservations closing after October 5th. The invitation noted "The brethren may invite friends. Masonic affiliation not necessary. MEN ONLY."] ¶I have attended Lodge with fair regularity, for a number of years. This bulletin goes to about 250 Masons residing in Mill Valley or immediate vicinity whom I have rarely seen inside the lodge room. Some, I have met elsewhere, socially or in a business way, but never at Lodge, others, I have never met, and are merely names on our ledger. //Man is a creature of habit. It becomes easy to put off Lodge until next Tuesday. It is just as easy to acquire the habit of regular attendance. Masonry is more than a fraternal order. It stands for certain very definite privileges of freemen. It abhors the enslavement of the body or the soul. It is indissolubly linked with American history and government. To a loyal American it should be very precious. Throughout much of the world Masonry is being attacked, insidiously or openly. You are not a Mason by merely paying your dues. Masonry needs men. Mankind needs Masonry. Will you 250 members come to Lodge once in a while. ¶Brother Bill Seaver who was slated to go to China in the interests of his firm, has been sent to Los Angeles instead, due t the unsettled conditions in the Orient." [A special notice was sent announcing the Constitutional Week observance would feature the Rev. B.L. Brittin, a well known authority on early American history who was to give an address on the subject. There was a musical program arranged as well.]
October 1941 Bulletin
Bro. Ben Brittin, an authority on early American history, gave a very fine and instructive talk on the Development of the Stars and Stripes. Well versed in his subject and equipped with a most remarkable exhibit of early American flags to substantiate his remarks, presented the evolution of our flag from its earliest stages up to the present form. [¶]One flag a representation of the original Betsy Ross Flag, was made by a 90 year old lady who was a great-grand-daughter of Betsy Ross. It is one of Bro. Brittin’s most prized possessions. [¶]Bro. Bill Seaver is the most transferred man in Mill Valley Lodge. Bill was slated to go to China for his firm, but due to the tense relationship between Japan and the U.S. he received orders to proceed to Los Angeles, which were countermanded, and we now hear that Bill is on his way to Boston, Mass. Bill is in the employ of the American President Lines. [¶]Bro. R.E. Starr is now stationed in Washington, D.C. Bro. Starr holds a major’s commission in the United States Army….[¶]Bro. Harold S. Johnson, a Lieut. Colonel in the Army is stationed in Columbia, South Carolina. [¶]SYMPATHY IS NOT ENOUGH: Of sympathy, Masonic victims of Hitler’s conquests throughout Europe have been getting much. Masons have been murdered, imprisoned and banished in Spain, Italy, France, Holland, Norway and Germany, and Masons over the world have responded sympathetically with expressions of sorrow, encouragement and moral support. Sympathy is a fine thing and it has been distributed by American Masons in large quantities wherever Masonry has been affected by Hitler’s stabs and plunders. But concrete, material aid has been coming in insufficient quantities. [¶]There are about 15,000 Lodges in the United States, with over 2,500,000 members. The only Masons in European countries who are actually carrying on, with the exception of Switzerland, Sweden, and Finland, are those in the British Empire, and their burdens of sorrow and sacrifice are almost as great as those carried by the persecuted Masons on the European continent. Surely, then, the bulk of material aid, much less the moral support, must come from Masonry in the United States. [¶]Masonic contributions for the purpose of aiding harassed European Masonry have been large, but not enough. Banquet verbiage and the flood of moral support, following the systematic suppression of Masonry in every Hitler-dominated country, has been far more eloquent. [¶]Since Hitler’s first march outside the German borders, European Masonry has been passing through its most trying hour in all history. Masons have been arrested and persecuted, forced to reveal their Lodge secrets. Their Lodges have been ruthlessly defiled and destroyed. Many of their homes have been burned, their wives and children killed. [¶]The suffering Masons of Europe appreciate these tokens of sentiment from the United States. It is not that sympathy does not help. It does. But Hitler’s atrocities in themselves have, more than any single factor, contributed most to rebuilding the morale of Europe’s tortured peoples. They, of course, resent and hate the Nazis, and look forward to the day of victory. The British can testify to that. What the suffering Masons need is not only sympathy, the natural and expected reaction to their troubles, but an intensified campaign on these shores to send more material aid across the sea. United States Masonry needs to shake away the tears and don the helmet of benevolence.
November 1941 Special Notice (Post Card)
Master Irvine T. Low advised that following the Nov. 4, 1941 Stated Meeting, Mr. Edward Moore, head of the legal department of the California State Automobile Association, "will address us on the subject, ‘Traffic laws, their Origin and Affect.’ Mr. Moore will also answer any questions relative to the new taxes affecting the motorist." Friends were invited to attend.
December 1941 Bulletin
In keeping the past, Mill Valley Lodge will be the first in the 51st Masonic District to hold its installation services. …[¶]MASTER’S MESSAGE: The time is rapidly approaching when I will be called upon to surrender my jewel and gavel, and take my place again on the sidelines. This is altogether fitting and proper, and the inevitable result of selective leadership. The thought that my term of office as your Worshipful Master will soon be over, is productive of conflicting emotions of regret and relief. Regret, to realize that I did not accomplish the results I had hoped for, and relief, to think and believe that our Lodge will be sure to benefit by the installation of a new leader, who must be inspired by optimism and enthusiasm, at the prospect of his preferment. [¶]To the officers who have been faithful and diligent during the past year, I express my sincere thanks and assure them that I have greatly appreciated their cooperation and support. Particularly must I mention Dave Hudtloff and Elliot Seymour, our worthy stewards, who have so often and uncomplainingly served the brethren at the refreshment table. Also, most welcome have been the friendly and helpful suggestions of Jake Uhrig, our very capable secretary. His wise counsel has aided materially in solving many perplexing problems. Recognition is also certainly due Hugh Rutherford, our junior deacon, who has done such a splendid job, editing the Lodge bulletin. Finally, I sincerely thank all of the brethren for the opportunity they have given me, to serve the Lodge these many years. It has been an inspiration and a real pleasure. Irvine T. Low, Master. [¶]The two resolutions acted upon at the December Stated Meeting, one to reduce the dues to $12.00 yearly and the other to make the life membership fee $300 failed to carry. MASONIC IDEALS: The collapse of our civilization, which is now seriously threatened, is primarily the collapse of ideals. It is the loss of respect for Christian standards and principles. Conduct, itself, alike of men and nations, is secondary to the ideals by which it is motivated. Ideals by which it is motivated. Ideals came first; when they are lost, all is lost. [¶]Brethren, when you hear some uninformed person speak slightingly of our ideals – stand up for Masonry, etc. [¶]Masonry can do much, if each Mason be content to do his share, and if their united efforts are directed by wise counsels to a common purpose….[¶]If Masonry will but be true to her mission, and Masons to their promises and obligations – if … we will but give aid to what were once Masonry’s great schemes for human improvement, not fitfully and spasmodically, but regularly and incessantly, as the vapors rise and the springs run, as the sun rises and the stars come up into the heavens, then we may be sure that the great results will be attained and a great work done. And