Proceedings of the Thirteenth Annual Meeting of Washington District Lodge, No. 20, (now Washington District Grand Lodge) G.U.O. of O.F. : also the by-laws of District Grand Lodge, No. 20, held in the city of Washington, session began Monday, September 11, 1893 : recorded and arranged by M.V.P. Samuel W. Watson, District Grand Secretary.: a machine-readable transcription.

PROCEEDINGS OF THE THIRTEENTH ANNUAL MEETING OF WASHINGTON DISTRICT GRAND LODGE, NO. 20,

G.U.O. OF O.F. HELD AT ODD FELLOWS' NEW HALL, NO. 1606 M ST. N. W. FIRST SESSION. Monday, September 11, 1893. Agreeably to the decision of the Twelfth Annual Session, and in compliance with the order of the District Grand Master as set forth in his Annual Proclamation issued May 15, 1893, District Grand Lodge, No. 20, met in its Thirteenth Annual Session on the above date.

At 8.15 o'clock P. M. District Grand Master, Daniel B. Webster called the meeting to order. Each member of the Executive Committee filled his respective station.

Bro. J.G. Turley was appointed temporary Guardian. Bro. Oscar Peebles temporary Warden, and Bro. H. B. Matthews temporary Chaplain.

The door was tiled by the Guardian with instructions to demand the quarterly password from any brother who applied for admission.

The Chaplain took his station at the sacred altar, and the Warden was instructed to examine the brethren and see if they all possessed the password of a P.N.F.

The Warden did as he was instructed and reported that several brethren were destitute of the proper word. Said brethren were required to stand and be vouched for by some properly qualified brother, and after the same was done the order of opening was proceeded with by singing the opening ode, honors three times three and prayer by 0008 8the Chaplain, after which the District Grand Lodge was declared to be formally opened and the order of business was proceeded with as follows:- ROLL CALL. Upon the call of the roll of lodges representatives reported as follows:- 891, 892, 1028, 1185, 1333, 1343, 1365, 1368, 1369, 1374, 1376, 1380, 1437, 1477, 1602, 1695, 1726, 1819, 1965, 2033, 2099, 2358, 2361, 2362. Every lodge in the District being represented.

As the name of each lodge was called the newly elected delegate therefrom came forward and placed his credentials on the desk of the District Grand Secretary.

COMMITTEE ON CREDENTIALS. The District Grand Master appointed the following named brethren as the Committee on Credentials:—J. W. Davis of Old Ark Lodge No. 1695, C. T. Buchanan of Green Mountain Lodge No. 1477, F. D. Lee of Eastern Star Lodge No. 1028, L. W. Fantleroy of Free Grace Lodge 1343, and Robert Rhone of Peter Ogden Lodge No. 1374.

The credentials were handed to the chairman and the committee withdrew.

Bro. Algier White then asked his status as to membership in the body, and the District Grand Master stated that by virtue of the adoption of a resolution offered by the Secretary of the twelfth annual session he was made a conventional member and is, in consequence, a member of this body.

Bro. J.W. Walker moved that a recess of twenty minutes be taken during the absence of the committee.

Bro. J.H. Scott moved as a substitute that a recess be taken until the committee returns.

The substitute was adopted and a recess taken. At the expiration of thirty-five minutes of the committee returned, the brethren were called to order and the Secretary read the following:

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON CREDENTIALS. To the officers and members of District Grand Lodge No. 20:—We your committee beg leave to submit the following report:—

Credentials have been examined from Lodges, 891, 892, 1028, 1185, 1333, 1343, 1365, 1368, 1369, 1376, 1380, 1437, 0009 91477, 1602, 1695, 1726, 1819, 1965, 2033, 2099, 2358, 2361, and 2362.

We find them all to be correct and the delegates entitled to seats, except the one from Lodge No. 1726, in which the delegate is not certified as being in possession of the P. N. F. degree.

Respectfully submitted in F., L. and T., J.W. Davis, Chairman. F.D. Lee, Secretary. L. W. Fantleroy, Rob't Rhone, Chas. T. Buchanan, Committee.

On motion of Bro. J. E. Ennis the report was adopted and the delegates seated whose credentials were reported to be correct.

At the request of the District Grand Master the delegate from Lodge No. 1726 stated that he is in possession of the degree necessary to qualify him for membership in the body and the only way he could account for the failure to so state it in the credentials was because of negligence on the part of the Permanent Secretary of his Lodge.

Several members vouched for the standing of the brother, and by motion of Bro. Geo. White he was seated and the credentials returned for correction.

PERMANENT ORGANIZATION. The District Grand Master stated that a Chaplain. Warden, and Guardian would have to be elected to complete the permanent organization and that the body would now proceed with that order of the business.

NOMINATIONS AND ELECTIONS. Nominations for Chaplain were made as follows:

Bros. H. B. Matthews and Oscar Peebles.

Bros. Jeremiah Adams and J. H. Coghill were appointed as tellers.

A ballot was taken and resulted in Bro. Matthews receiving 19 votes; Bro. Peebles 18.

Bro. Matthews having received a majority of all the votes, he was declared elected as the Chaplain.

Nominations were made for Warden as follows:

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Bros. J. H. Scott, W. W. Walker, W. W. Ware, and T. J. Fields, Jr.

The ballot resulted as follows:

1st Bro. Scott, 12; Bro. Walker, 12; Bro. Ware, 6; Bro. Field, 7. No Choice.

The names of Bros. Ware and Fields were withdrawn. and, Bro. Scott, 22; Bro. Walker, 14.

Bro. James H. Scott having received a majority of all the votes cast, he was declared elected Warden.

Nominations for Guardian were made as follows:

Bros. Chas. S. Duckett, John Keyes, J. A. Wade, T.J. Fields, Jr., and J.G. Turley.

Bro. Turley declined, and on motion of Bro. L.W. Fantleroy nominations were closed.

The ballot resulted as follows:

Bro. Duckett, 9; Bro. Keyes, 5; Bro. Wade, 3; Bro. Field, 20.

Bro. T.J. Fields, Jr., having received a majority of all the votes cast, he was declared elected Guardian.

Ex-District Master Gunnell and Bro. H. L. Livingston escorted the newly elected officers to their stations, during which ceremony the anthem, “Hail, Worthy Brothers, Hail,” was sung.

The following committees were appointed by the District Grand Master: Committee on Appeals: Jeremiah Adams, Jeremiah Smith, Robert Rhone, John H. Thomas and William Trice.

Committee on Finance: J. Gardener Turley, Oscar Peebles, George White, Charles T. Buchanan and Henry Stewart.

Committee on District Grand Master's Address: H. L. Livingston, Henry Burrell, Thomas J. Fields, Jr., Alexander Moten and William W. Walker.

Committee on Annual Reports: Ferdinand D. Lee, James A. Wade, Nathaniel Graves, Henry B. Matthews and Paul R. Stewart.

Committee on Widows and Orphans: William W. Ware, Charles S. Ducket and William J. Wilkins.

Committee on Grievances: William H. Jackson, Henry Crump, John H. Coghill, James H. Scott and William Murray.

On motion of Bro. Watson the appointment of a Committee on Insurance was omitted.

Bro. Ludwell Gunnell was granted permission to address 0011 11the body and stated that Bro. Henry Wood, a member of Union Friendship Lodge No. 891, was dead and would be buried Tuesday, September 12th, at 3 o'clock.

By authority of the lodge he invited the members of the District Grand Lodge to attend the funeral.

The District Grand Master spoke in the highest terms of the many virtues of the brother and also of the great loss which the lodge sustained by his demise.

It was then decided by a silent vote that as many members would attend as could make it convenient.

The next order of business being reports etc., the District Grand Master read the following address: [See appendix for address.] The brethren gave the District Grand Master their undivided attention and showed their appreciation of the sentiments embodied in the address by long continued applause at its conclusion.

On motion of Bro. Algier White it was referred to the proper committee.

Bro. Fauntleroy moved that when a recess is taken it be to meet on Monday, the 18th.

Bro. Geo. White moved to amend by striking out “Monday the 18th” and inserting therefor “Tuesday the 19th.”

Bro. Jas. T. Walker moved as a substitute for the whole, that when a recess is taken it be till Wednesday, the 13th.

The substitute prevailed and at 11:15 p. m. a recess was taken, to meet at 8 p. m., Wednesday September 13, 1893.

SECOND SESSION. Odd Fellows' Hall, 1606 M St. N. W. Sept. 13, 1893. Pursuant to the resolution for recess of District Grand Lodge reassembled at 8:25 o'clock p. m., with District Grand Master D. B. Webster presiding.

All members of the Executive Committee were present at the opening except Bro. J. G. Turley.

The Chaplain, Warden and Guardian were all late and their places temporarily filled as follows: Bro. Oscar Peebles. Bro. Paul R. Stewart and Bro. C. H. Brown.

The pass-word was taken up by the Warden and such brethren properly vouched for as were destitute of the same. The meeting was then opened by singing the opening ode, prayer by the Chaplain and honors.

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The officers who were absent at the opening, entered the room at this juncture and took their proper stations.

The roll of lodges was called and a quorum being present the District Grand Master declared the meeting ready for business, and the minutes of the first session were read and approved.

SECRETARY's REPORT. The itemized report of the District Grand Secretary was read (see report) and showed the receipts to July 31st, to be $273.34, and the expenditures to the same date, $252.45, leaving a balance in hand of $20.89.

The report was referred to the Auditing Committee.

TREASURER's REPORT. The report of the District Grand Treasurer was presented, and before being read said officer stated that he had included in his report for the year a statement of the receipts and expenditures from the date of his qualifying (Oct. 1888) to the close of the present year (July '93). He also stated that in going over his book for the data he found he had 40 cents more than the face of the previous accounts had shown, and therefore his report for the present year differed from that of the Secretary to that amount.

The District Grand Master stated that all previous reports of the Secretary and Treasurer had been reported upon by the Auditing Committee appointed from year to year, and that only so much of the Treasurer's report would be read as related to the accounts of the year just passed.

The Secretary then proceeded to read the report, (see itemized form) which showed the receipts and balance to July 31st to be $273.74 and the expenditures for the same time $252.45; leaving a balance in hand of $21.29.

The report was referred to the same committee as that of the Secretary.

SUBORDINATE LODGE REPORTS. Reports for the Subordinate Lodges were read by their titles, and their summary is as follows: Total Membership 2377 “ Financial 1995 “ Unfinancial 382 “ Past Officers 896 “ Brothers relieved 227 “ “ buried 42 “ Widows relieved 40 “ Orphans relieved 11

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Total Amount paid to sick $4360.69 “ “ “ for funerals 3243.31 “ “ “ for widows 428.75 “ “ “ for charity 362.04 “ “ “ other objects 7222.72 ———— Total amount paid out $15,621.51 Total amount invested $13,678.80 “ value of property 10,626.91 “ balance in funds 3528.52 ————- Total amount invested, value of property, and balance in funds $27,834.23

The reports were referred to the proper committee. The summary was ordered to be recorded in the minutes and printed as a portion of the proceedings.

GRIEVANCES. The District Grand Master instructed that each grievance matter on the files of the Secretary's office be read by its title and referred to the Grievance Committee for examination and report

In compliance with said instructions the Secretary read the following matters by their titles and passed the papers in each case to the Chairman of the committee having the subject matter in charge:

1st. Ludwell Gunnell, of Union Friendship Lodge No. 891 of Washington, D.C.; vs. Union Friendship Lodge No. 891, of Washington, D.C., cause: failure to pay certain sick benefits which he claimed to be legally entitled to.

2nd. Charles A. George, of Social Lodge No. 1819 of Washington, D.C. vs. Social Lodge No. 1819 No. Washington D.C.; cause: illegally depriving him of benefits due on account of funeral of deceased wife.

3rd. Mrs. Virginia Duckett, of Washington, D.C.; vs. John F. Cook Lodge No. 1185, of Washington, D.C.; cause: illegally depriving her of benefits due on account of the funeral of her deceased husband.

4th. Mrs. Mary Mack, of Washington, D.C. vs. Social Lodge No. 1819, of Washington, D.C.; cause: illegally depriving her of benefits due on account of the funeral of her deceased husband, Samuel H. Mack, of said lodge, No.1819.

5th. Edward M. Ingram, of Peter Ogden Lodge No. 1374, of Washington, D.C. vs. Peter Ogden Lodge No. 1374, of Washington, D.C.; cause: illegally expelling him 0014 14from the rights and privileges of membership in said Lodge No. 1374.

6th. S.H. Wilkins, of Old Ark Lodge No. 1695, of Washington, D.C., vs. Old Ark Lodge No. 1695, of Washington, D.C., cause: electing, obligating, and installing members to certain offices in the lodge in a manner contrary to the provisions of the Constitution and General Laws; and also with having imposed fines upon him contrary to the provisions of the Constitution.

7th. Paul R. Stewart, Jeremiah Smith, et al. of Osceola Lodge, No. 2033, of Washington, D.C. vs. Osceola Lodge No. 2033, of Washington, D.C.; cause; levying a special assessment against the members and unconstitutionally denying to a minority of them the right of protest.

The papers of protest in the last named case were handed to the Secretary a few days before the meeting of the District Grand Lodge, and the District Grand Master ruled that if they did not come to the Grand Lodge through the channel of its Executive Committee they were not legally entitled to present consideration by the Grand Body.

By motion of Brother Samuel Hunter the matter was referred to the Executive Committee.

By order of the District Grand Master Brother Charles H. Brown, of Lodge No. 2358, was appointed Chairman of the Grievance Committee in the place of Brother W.H. Jackson of Lodge No. 1695.

SPECIAL COMMITTEE REPORT. The Special Committee consisting of Bros. H.C. Livingston, J.G. Turley and Samuel Hunter-appointed to investigate and report upon the affairs of the last “B.M.C.” Banquet, reported to the Executive Committee, and by order of a majority of that body the testimony taken and report of the committee were referred to the District Grand Lodge for such action as it might see fit to take.

The summary of the testimony as made up by the committee was read by the District Grand Secretary.

The committee fully reported its findings in said summary which went on to prove that carelessness and mis-management (and possibly dishonesty) of the grossest kind existed on the part of many members of the committee.

Bro. Algier White moved that the report be adopted.

Bro. S. Watson moved as a substitute that the report 0015 15and testimony be referred to a special committee of three or five for review and recommendation.

The substitute was adopted and the matter was referred to the following committee: Bros. Jeremiah Adams, Geo. W. Pinkney, John Keyes, J.H. Thomas and William Trice.

COMMUNICATIONS. A letter was read from Georgetown Patriarchie No. 42, inviting the officers and members of the District Grand Lodge to attend an entertainment at “Bethel Hall” on the evening of Sept. 21st, on which occasion the Patriarchie would be presented with a silver bugle.

One was also read from the Triennial Conference Committee announcing the meeting in the city of Washington, beginning Wednesday, Sept. 27th, and the Grand Banquet on the evening of the 28th, and inviting the members to attend.

On motion of Bro. Jeremiah Smith both invitations were accepted with the understanding that as many members would attend as could conveniently do so.

VISITORS. One of the most pleasant features of the evening was occasioned by a fraternal visit from ex-District Master John A. Simms of John F. Cook Lodge, No. 1185, and Grand Director David A. Clark of Bloom of Youth Lodge No. 1368.

At the request of the District Grand Master each of the brethren made a short address.

Bro. Simms confined his remarks to a brief synopsis of the history of the District Lodge from its organization down to the present time, and closed by highly complimenting the District Grand Lodge and its officers for the good they are accomplishing for the Order, and wishing them a long continuance of confidence and success.

Bro. Clark said it was the first time it had been his privilege and pleasure to be present at a meeting of the District Grand Lodge and that he was highly pleased with what he had seen and heard during the short time he had been in attendance.

He referred to the business-like manner in which matters seemed to be conducted, and stated that he had received an important telegram which, if read, would explain itself.

The telegram was passed to the Secretary and read as follows:

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“To D.A. Clark. 1013 19th, Street. “Is Louis N. Phillipson financial in any Washington Lodge? He is dead. Answer.” “Charles B. Wilson.”

Every lodge in the District of Columbia had a delegate present, and as none of them seemed acquainted with the person named, it was suggested to Bro. Clark that he answer accordingly.

Bro. J.W. Davis moved that a recess be taken until Thursday, September 21st.

Bro. S.W. Watson stated that there was a very large amount of work to be considered by the Grievance Committee and that it would take more time to properly consider the cases in hand than that covered by the motion of Bro. Davis.

He therefore moved as a substitute for the pending motion that a recess be taken until Monday, September 25th.

The substitute was adopted and the Second Session of the 13th Annual Meeting of District Grand Lodge No. 20, G.U.O. of O.F. of the District of Columbia closed with the ritual ceremonies of the Order and prayer by the Chaplain.

THIRD SESSION. Odd Fellows' New Hall, 1606 M Street, N.W. Washington, D.C., Monday September 25, 1893. The officers and delegates being present, the third session of the Thirteenth Annual Meeting was opened by the District Grand Master with Ritual ceremonies and prayer by the Chaplain, Bro. H.B. Matthews.

The minutes of the second session were read and approved.

REPORTS OF COMMITTEES. In conformity with the regular order of business reports from the various committees were read and acted upon as follows:

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON DISTRICT GRAND MASTER's ADDRESS. Worthy Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master. Officers and Members of District Grand Lodge No. 20, G.U.O. of O.F.:

Greeting: Your committee to whom was referred the Annual Address of our Worthy Grand Master of the District Grand Lodge had the same under consideration and leg leave to report that they 0017 17have carefully considered it and find that our Worthy Grand Master has ably administered the affairs of the Order: that to its affairs he has given much valuable time and has shown a wish on his part to do all in his power to promote and further the highest interests of the order he has so ably represented in the past.

His suggestions therein contained meet the Committee's most hearty approval.

If the Order shall carry into effect his recommendations it must attain a degree of prosperity unparalled in its history in the District. Your committee cannot too strongly urge upon the Order the advisability of carrying into effect the recommendations looking toward the liquidation of the debt hanging over us and owning upon this beautiful building. It is clearly the duty of this meeting to devise some feasible plan for raising funds for the purpose, in order that we may be free from this burden and take ourselves out of the hands of the white man that we may rejoice in the fact that we are indeed an independent Order and owe allegiance to no man. That we can do this is evidenced by the efforts of that noble band of women the “Household of Ruth.” who have shown and taught us a lesson in the art of money getting. That we can learn much from this noble band of women we are compelled to admit.

Let us put our heads together and see if some plan cannot be devised looking toward that end. His suggestion relative to the Banquet Committee, and the action suggested, meet our most hearty approval and should not go unheeded, for it is only by a strict and honest administration of the financial affairs of the Order that we can hope to further its interests and secure the respect and confidence of the public generally.

When that grand old Hero and Statesman. Gen. Grant declared that in dealing with officials intrusted with the financial affairs of the Government: No guilty man should escape, be laid down a safe rule of action that the Order can safely and wisely follow.

Our Worthy Grand Master has so fully gone into these matters that it seems out of place to attempt to enlarge upon what he has so well said, and yet your committee cannot close this report without commending in the highest manner the timely suggestion of our Worthy Grand Master in the matter of taking some decisive action looking toward the building of a hall, and that the West Washington hall question should become a matter of fact. We your committee cannot too highly commend the able manner in which he has filled the high office to which he was called by the action of the Lodges.

All of which is respectfully submitted. P.G.M. Thomas J. Fields, Jr. M.V.P. WM. W. Walker. M.V.P. Henry Burrell. P.N.F. Alexander Moten. P.N.F. H.L. Livingston. Committee.

On motion of Bro. J.W. Walker the report was adopted and the committee discharged.

Bro. John A. Simms, who was present, asked permission to be heard on a “question of information,” and the District Grand Master said it would not be granted without 0018 18first gaining the consent of the District Grand Lodge.

Bro. J. W. Davis moved that the request of Bro. Simms be complied with.

The motion was unanimously adopted, and the brother asked to be informed if by reason of the fact of his having been a member of the District Lodge at its organization he is thereby considered a member of the District Grand Lodge.

The District Grand Master answered that no provision was made when the District Lodge laws were revised at the Atlanta Meeting for such members as those mentioned in his inquiry, and therefore he is not entitled to membership and privileges in the District Grand Lodge.

Bro. Simms attempted to state that he would take an appeal through Bro. John Keyes from the District Grand Master's construction of the law; but the District Grand Master silenced him and stated that any action of that nature must be taken by a regular member of the Grand body.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE. To the District Grand Master, Deputy District Grand Master. Officers and Members of District Grand Lodge No. 20, G.U.O. of O.F.:

Greeting: We your Committee, to whom were referred the reports of the District Grand Secretary and Treasurer, beg leave to report as follows:

From a careful examination of the reports of the above named officers we find that they agree for the year beginning August 1st 1892 and ending July 31st, 1893: but that the Grand Treasurer has brought forward a balance of 40 cents more than was shown in the report of the previous year.

The reports of the Secretary and Treasurer for 1892 were received and approved by the District Lodge at its twelfth annual meeting and they then agreed to the value of one cent. For the proof of which we have the report of the Auditing Committee for 1892, of which Committee two members of the present Finance Committee-Bros. Stewart and Turley-were members and we are wholly unable to account for such a statement.

Your Committee highly endorse the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th of the propositions presented in the report of the Secretary and respectfully recommend their adoption.

We also recommend the adoption of the propositions as made in the report regarding a proper recognition of the past services of the District Grand Master. And for that purpose we recommend that thirty ($30) dollars stand appropriated and be presented to him after the faithful performance of his duties at the close of the present term.

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We recommend the adoption of the 1st proposition as made in the report of the Treasurer. James G. Turley, Oscar Peebles, Charles T. Buchanan, George White, Committee.

Bro. W. W. Walker moved that the report be adopted.

Objection was raised by several brethren to that portion of the report which recommended the appropriation of thirty ($30) dollars as a mark of appreciation of the past services of the present District Grand Master. None of the brethren objected, because of the size of the amount suggested, but the objection of each seemed to be based on the thought that the present demands on the Order for funds are so great that they could be used at this time to a better advantage for other purposes.

Bro. J.W. Davis moved to amend by striking out thirty ($30) dollars, and inserting therefor, fifteen ($15) dollars.

The amendment was agreed to by a vote of 27 to 5, the report adopted as amended, and the committee discharged.

REPORT OF THE SPECIAL COMMITTEE. To the Most Worshipful Grand Master, Deputy Grand Master and Members of District Grand Lodge No. 20:

Greeting: We your committee to whom was referred the report of the “Special Committee on Investigation of the Management of the Banquet held in Market Hall October 9, 1892, “beg leave to submit the following after a careful review of the testimony, reports and papers placed in our custody, we found sufficient reason to believe that the alleged unfair methods and mismanagements on the part of certain brethren having charge of the banquet were proven to be true. We found in the testimony that a shortage occurred not only in the ticket money, but also in that from the cloak rooms and stands.

We found also that extravagance was indulged in to a shameful degree and caused quite a loss of money to the twenty-four (24) lodges of the District of Columbia.

After a careful consideration of the whole matter your committee are of the opinion that brothers W. H. Jackson, of Osceola Lodge No. 2033. Chairman of the Banquet Committee: W. H. A. Young, of Free Grace Lodge No. 1343, Chairman of the General B. M. C. Committee, and W. D. Montague, of Wm. A. Freeman Lodge No. 2099, Treasurer of the Banquet Committee, are wholly and solely responsible for the un-business like manner in which the affairs were conducted and the loss to the Order resulting therefrom.

The evidence shows that preparations were made for the accommodation of 5,000 persons at the Banquet and that a bill was paid for the printing of 5,000 tickets. That 1,707 tickets were received at the door on the night of the Banquet and only $1484.50 in cash, leaving a discrepancy of $164.50.

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The evidence also shows that large and unnecessary quantities of catables, groceries. Wines liquors champagne and cigars were purchased by Bros, Jackson and Montague without the authority of the General, or Executive Committees, and paid for with the approval of Bro. W. H. A. Young Chairman of the General Committee.

We believe that the heavy loss resulting from the sales at the tables was due to the bad management of Bro Jackson, who after having paid high prices for large quantities of supplies, allowed them to be wasted and squandered.

We believe also that Bro. Montague should have turned over all money in his possession to Bro Eugene Brooks on the night of the Banquet as he was requested to do, and not to have carried it away it before it was even counted.

We blame Bro. Young for having approved the payment of bills before they were presented to the General Committee of the B.M.C. In conclusion we make the following recommendations:

1st. That Bro. W.H. Jackson. W.D. Montague and W.H.A. Young be tried before their respective lodges for misappropriating the funds of the Order.

2nd. That a copy of the testimony taken before the Committee investigating the Management of the Banquet, be furnished the various lodge lodges interested.

3rd. That a conservative and safe course be pursued as the best was out of the present difficulty.

Trusting that the District Grand Lodge may act in a judicious and brotherly manner and that there may not be the loss of a single friend or a dollar to the Order, this report is submitted for your consideration. Jeremiah Adams, Chairman, William Trice, John Keyes. George W. Pinkney, John A. Thomas, Committee.

Bro. Alexander Moten moved that the report be adopted.

Objection was raised by several brethren, each arguing that the report was not sufficiently comprehensive, because of fact that five brethren were arraigned in the brief and summary submitted by the Investigating Committee while the present report only brings indictment against three and fails to mention anything (pro or con) regarding the other two.

Bro. James A. Wade moved as a substitute for the pending motion that the report be received for action.

The substitute was adopted and the report declared to be before the body for such action as it might see fit to take.

Bro. W.W. Walker moved that the Chairman of the Committee state or report the findings regarding the two brethren Wright and Warner whose names were mentioned 0021 21in the testimony and brief of the Investigation Committee and ignored in the report of their review and recommendations.

The motion was adopted, and Bro, Adams, Chairman, stated that the testimony and brief of the Investigating Committee were carefully reviewed by his committee, and as all information gained there tended wholly toward implicating the three brethren report upon and as nothing criminating seemed to be attached to the actions of the other two brethren, they thought it right and just that their names should not be mentioned.

Bros Pinkney, Trice and Keyes. Members of the committee, endorsed the statement of their Chairman and emphatically stated that those were the only reason for the failure to mention the names of the other two brethren.

Bro. Algier White moved that the report be referred back for correction.

Bro. Watson objected and stated that much time had been consumed in the discussion of the matter, and in view of the statement of the Chairman and members of the committee, he moved as a substitute for the pending motion that said statement be accepted as a portion of the report and that the two brethren in question be exonerated from any charges implicating them in the mis-management of the Banquet affairs. It being then time to close, a recess was ordered till Tuesday Oct 3rd at 8 o'clock p.m.

Prior to closing unanimous consent was given to endorse a letter to the Commissioners asking the re-appointment of Bro. L. A. Cornish as a member of the School Board.

The meeting then closed with singing and benediction.

FOURTH SESSION. Odd Fellows' Hall, 1606 M Street, N.W. Washington. D. C. Oct. 3, 1893. The fourth session of the Thirteenth Annual Meeting was called to order by the District Grand Master as 8:15 o'clock p.m.

Bro. Turley was the only member of the Executive Committee absent and he was excused because of being on duty in the ticket box for the fair committee.

The Warden, Bro. J. H. Scott, was absent, (doing duty 0022 22on the Grievance Committee) and his place was filled by the temporary appointment of Bro. C.T. Buchanan.

The Chaplain, Bro. H.B. Matthews, was absent on account of sickness and Bro. Oscar Peebles was appointed to perform his duties during the evening.

The acting Warden examined the brethren and reported them all to be in possession of the quarterly pass-word except three. They were properly vouched for and the meeting was duly opened with the Ritual Ceremonies of the Order.

Twenty three members answered present to the roll of delegates.

The minutes of the third session were read and approved.

The business under consideration when the time arrived for closing the third session was as follows: “Bro. Algier White moved that the report presented by the Committee on Review and Recommendation be referred back to said committee for completion.”

“Bro. Watson moved as a substitute that the verbal statement of the chairman, and endorsed by three members of the committee, be accepted as a portion of the report and the two brethren in question be exonerated from any charges implicating them in the mismanagement of the banquet affairs.”

The District Grand Master stated that the subject was before the body for such action as it might see fit to take and on motion of Bro. W.J. Wilkins it was laid on the table by a vote of 13 to 5.”

The motion of Bro. Algier White that the report be referred back to the committee for completion was then adopted by a vote of 19 to 2.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE ON ANNUAL RETURNS. To the District Grand Master, Officers and Members of Washington District Grand Lodge No. 20, G.U.O of O.F. Greeting: We, your committee beg leave to state that the Annual Report of each lodge herein represented has been carefully examined, and we find them all in conformity with the laws and regulations of the Order, and also that each lodge is in a prosperous condition. The reports show that there are 2377 members in the District, and that 1995 of those are financial and 382 nonfinancial.

They show also that the various lodges are carrying out the objects of charity and benevolence for which the institution was organized, and through their aid and influence much assistance is rendered 0023 23the widow, the orphan and the worthy brother of our Order.

Fraternally submitted in F.L. and T.. Ferdinand D. Lee, Chairman. James A. Wade, Secretary. Nathaniel Graves. Henry B. Matthews. Paul R. Stewart. Committee.

On motion of Bro. Algier White the report was approved and the committee discharged.

The next business in order was the report of the Committee on Grievances, but said committee being then in session, Bro. George White was sent out to ascertain when it would be ready to report.

The brother returned and stated that they were about to adjourn and the Chairman said they would be ready to report in ten or fifteen minutes.

The regular order was waived and the business taken up from the Secretary's desk.

STATEMENT OF THE HALL ASSOCIATION DELEGATE. Bro. James E. Ennis, delegate of the District Grand lodge to the Hall Association, presented a statement showing that one hundred ($100.00) dollars worth of stock had been purchased in the name of the District Grand Lodge and that certificates for the same are in the possession of the Treasurer.

The District Grand Master ordered that the statement be placed on file.

CARRIAGES. A receipt from Mr. J.H. Dabney for eight ($8.00) dollars paid by Bros. Walker and Davis for two carriages for the use of the Executive Committee on the occasion of the parade Sept. 28, in honor of the Triennial Conference of Past Grand Masters, was read, and on motion of Bros. Alexander Moten the action was approved and the receipt ordered placed on file.

REPORTS OF THE GRIEVANCE COMMITTEE. The Grievance Committee came in and reports on the several cases under their charge were read and acted upon as follows:

1st. Charles A. George vs. Social Lodge, No. 1819.

To the District Grand Master, Deputy, Officers and Members of District Grand Lodge No. 20. Greeting: We your committee to 0024 24whom was referred the complaint of Charles A. George vs. Social Lodge No. 1819, fraternally submit the following:

Bro. George claims that he was unlawfully deprived of the amount which the lodge constitution allows a brother on the death of his wife.

The lodge claims that he was not entitled (according to the constitution) to said amount.

After a careful review of the testimony and papers of the parties concerned, we find-

1st. That Bro. George the complainant, received notice Nov. 14, 1892 that he was nonfinancial in said Social Lodge No. 1819, and that the brother claims to have the whole of his indebtedness at the regular meeting: December 23rd, 1892.

2nd. That the P.S. of Social Lodge No. 1818 claims the indebtedness was not paid until January 3rd, 1893, and as the wife of the brother died March 4th he was not entitled to the benefits because the probationary term of two (2) months had not then expired.

The committee failed to obtain from the P.S. any satisfactory authentication of his assertion: and in view of that fact respectfully recommend that the complaint of Bro. Chas. A. George vs. Social Lodge No. 1819 be, and the same is, hereby sustained, and that said lodge be instructed to pay the amount due within sixty (60) days, or stand suspended until said order is complied with.

Fraternally, James H. Scott. William Murray, H.W. Crump, J.H. Coghill, Committee.

On motion of Bro. John W. Walker, the report of the committee was adopted.

2nd. Mrs. Mary Mack vs. Social Lodge No. 1819

To the District Grand Master, Deputy, Officers and Members of District Grand Lodge No. 20, Greeting: We, your committee to whom was referred the complaint of Mrs. Mary Mack vs. Social Lodge No. 1819, for failure to bury her husband, respectfully report the following to be our findings-

From a careful examination of the testimony and papers of both sides of the case the facts appear as follows:

1st. The constitution of Social Lodge No. 1819 provides that upon the death of a financial member the sum of Sixty ($60.) dollars shall be paid to his widow or legal representative, and that Bro. Mack was a financial member at the time of his death.

2nd. That Social Lodge No. 1819 failed to comply with the provisions of its constitution in the instance of the death of Bro. Mack, claiming—according to the Secretary's report—that said brother (as Lodge Treasurer) should have had in his possession at the time of his death the sum of Sixty one dollars and forty one cents. [$61.41.]

3rd. That the Secretary failed to produce sufficient evidence to prove said statement to be true: and that Mrs. Mack turned over to a lodge committee the sum of Twenty five dollars and ninety five cents, [$25.95] which amount she claimed to be all she had any knowledge of as being the property of said lodge No. 1819.

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Now, in view of the fact that Bro. Mack was financial at the time of his death, and that the lodge recognized HIM and not MRS. MACK as its Treasurer, we respectfully recommend that Social Lodge, No. 1819 be instructed to pay over to Mrs. Mack the sum of Thirty four dollars and five cents. [$34.05], in addition to the return of the Twenty five dollars and ninety five cents. [$25.95], to make the constitutional amount due the widow of one of its deceased members.

Fraternally submitted, C.H. Brown. Chairman, Jas. H. Scott. H.W. Crump. J.H. Coghill. Wm. Murray. Committee

Bro. Alexander Moten moved that the report be approved and the recommendation ordered complied with.

Bro. L.W. Fantleroy moved to amend by inserting that if the order be not complied with, within sixty [60] days from the date of notice, the lodge stand suspended until the money is paid.

Bro. F.D. Lee thought it an unnecessary hardship to impose such a requirement upon the lodge in view of the fact the payment in the George case was ordered to be made within sixty (60) days from notice, and he moved as a substitute for the whole, that the report and recommendation of the committee be approved and the lodge instructed to comply within ninety (90) days from date of notice or stand suspended until said order is obeyed.

The substitute was adopted. 3rd. Bro. Ludwell Gunnell vs Union Friendship Lodge No. 891.

To the District Grand Master, Deputy, Officers and Members of District Grand Lodge No. 20.

Greeting::—We, your committee to whom was referred the complaint of Bro. Ludwell Gunnell vs. Union Friendship Lodge No. 891, submit the following for your consideration: Bro Gunnell was sick eight weeks during the early part of the present year and claims to have notified said Union Friendship Lodge No. 891 to that effect, and to have been entitled to sick benefits by reason of the fact that he was, and is, a financial member of said lodge.

The lodge claims that the brother was not entitled to the benefits asked for because the notice sent was not in conformity with the requirements of its constitution.

After a careful review of the papers, etc., in the case the committee have concluded that in as much as Union Friendship Lodge No. 891, knew that the said brother was sick and under the care of a physician (the physician being the P.S. of said lodge) to recommend that the lodge pay the brother the eight weeks sick benefits in compliance 0026 26with law 67, page 39, of the General Laws of the Order.

Fraternally etc., Chas. H. Brown. Chairman WILLIAM MURRAY, J.H. COGHILL. of the Committee.

The brethren did not seem to be well impressed with the nature of the report and in compliance with the request of several delegates the Secretary of the committee read it a second time.

In answer to an inquiry it was learned that all members of the committee were present when the case was under consideration, but that Bros. Crump and Scott failed to agree with the majority in their views on the case and preferred to be allowed time to present a minority report.

Bro. John W. Walker moved that the report be sent back to the committee for a minority statement.

Bro. Watson moved as a substitute that consideration of the matter be deferred until the minority shall have had time to present a written report.

On motion of Bro. Algier White the substitute was laid on the table.

Bro. L.W. Fauntleroy moved that the report be received and adopted, with the amendment that the lodge be required to pay the money within ninety (90) days of date of notice.

Bros. Crump and Scott members of the committee, opposed the approval of the majority report on the grounds that nothing in the evidence and papers considered by the committee tended to show that the Bro. had properly notified the lodge of his sickness.

The motion to adopt the report was rejected by a vote of 27 to 7.

Bro. George White moved that a recess be taken until Wednesday, October 11th. The motion prevailed and the session closed with the Ritual Ritual ceremonies and prayer by the Acting Chaplain, Bro. Oscar Peebles.

FIFTH SESSION. Odd Fellows' New Hall, 1606 M Street, N.W.. Washington, D.C., October 11, 1893.

The District Grand Master called the fifth session of the Thirteenth Annual Meeting to order at 8 p.m. sharp.

The Deputy District Grand Master, Chaplain and Warden 0027 27were absent at the opening and their places were filled by Bros. H.L. Livingston, Algier White and Henry Burrell.

All of the brethren except one were reported as being in possession of the proper pass-word; the one destitute of the same was vouched for by a member of his lodge and the ceremony of opening was concluded by singing the opening ode, prayer by the acting Chaplain and honors three times three.

The roll of delegates was called and 34 brethren answered present.

The minutes of the fourth session were read and approved.

The Deputy District Grand Master, Chaplain and Warden entered the room at this juncture and took their proper stations.

The District Grand Master stated that the motion of Bro. L.W. Fantleroy, “that the report of the Grievance Committee in the case of Bro. Ludwell Gunnell vs. Union Friendship Lodge No. 891 be adopted,” was rejected by a vote of 20 to 7 just prior to the close of the fourth session, and the question recurred as to what final disposition the District Grand Lodge intended to make of the matter.

In compliance with his orders the Secretary then read the answer of the lodge to the charges as preferred by Bro. Gunnell, and Bro. J.W. Davis moved that the action of the lodge be sustained. The motion was adopted by a vote of 26 to 4.

4th. Bro. Edward M. Ingram vs. Peter Ogden Lodge No. 1374.

To the District Grand Master, Deputy Offices and Members of District Grand Lodge No. 20:

Greeting: We your committee to whom was referred the case of Bro. E.M. Ingram vs. Peter Ogden Lodge No. 1374 on the charge of illegal expulsion, beg leave to report as follows:

Upon a careful review of the papers and testimony we found that at the the time of the trial of the above named brother he was non-financial, being in arrears an amount exceeding two dollars and ten cents ($2.10).

We have failed to find any law or decision which gives a lodge the right to arraign for trial a non-financial member, and hold the opinion that all such members should be held in abeyance until such time as they become financial.

In substantiation of this opinion you are respectfully referred to decision of the S C.M. published in the Quarterly Circular of April 12, 1886.

We further find that the brother was tried under General Law 96, (page 70) sections 18 and 19: and expelled under the provision of law 47 page 36, which action-in our opinion-is inconsistent, since sections 0028 2818 and 19 of law 9; penalties attached for the offenses cited therein.

We therefore recommend that the appeal be sustained and that Peter Ogden Lodge be instructed to immediately recall all former actions in the case and hold the charges in abeyance until the brother shall have become financial.

Fraternally submitted. Chales H. Brown, Chairman, James H. Scott. H.W. Crump. William Murray. John H. Coghill. Committee.

On motion of Bro. Algier White the report was adopted.

Bro. Robert Rhone asked to be heard in defense of the lodge, and on motion of Bro. John W. Walker the motion adopting the report was reconsidered.

Bro. Rhone then stated his objection to the adoption of the report on the grounds that the brother was financial at the time he was ordered up for trial and was expelled under General Law 96 section 18.

Bro. James A. Cole, a delegate from Peter Ogden Lodge also defended the action of the lodge and stated that it is a fact well known to the whole membership of the lodge, and many members of the Order, that the brother is so notoriously guilty of the charges as to be wholly unfit for membership in any lodge, and to continue him longer on the rolls is a sad reflection on the fraternity.

At the request of Bro. F.D. Lee the reply of the lodge to the complaint of Bro. Ingram was read and it was shown that the lodge acknowledged that the brother was unfinancial at the time of trial.

The motion of Bro. White was renewed and the report of the committee adopted.

5th. Bro. S.H. Wilkins vs. Old Ark Lodge No. 1695: To the District Grand Master, Deputy., Officers and Members of District Grand Lodge No. 20:

Greeting: We your Committee to whom was referred the complaint of Bro. S.H. Wilkins vs. Old Ark Lodge No. 1695, respectfully report the following as our findings; It appears from a review of the books and and testimony that at a regular meeting of the above named lodge, held March 17th, 1893, one brother E.C. Walker was elected from Warden to P.N.G. without possessing the required qualifications.

It also appears that at a regular meeting, held June 2nd, 1893. Bro. S.W. Wilkins was fined ten (10) cents for talking from his seat and three ($3.00) dollars for repeated dictation to the N.G..

We recommend in the case of Bro. E.C. Walker, who was illegally elected to the office of P.N.G. without possessing the required 0029 29qualifications, that Old Ark Lodge be instructed to remove the brother at once and till this important office with one amply qualified in every respect as per General Law 103, page 82

The testimony in the matter of Bro. S.H. Wilkins showed that the N.G. was only justified in fining the brother two ($2.00) dollars and we recommend that the lodge be instructed to remit one ($1.00) dollar of the fines and deduct said amount from the indebtedness of the brother.

Respectfully submitted, C.H. Brown, Chairman, James H. Scott, H.W. Crump, J.H. Coghill, William Murray, Committee.

Bro. Geo. A. Carter moved the adoption of the report.

The report was read a second time and Bro. Thos. Perry rose to speak. Bro. Watson objected to his being heard on the grounds that he is not a delegate and that the lodge has two delegates present who are fully able to look out for its interests; but, upon the statement of the brother that he is the Advocate of the lodge and had been sent to represent it in the matter at issue, the District Grand Lodge Law 8, section 10, page 31, and granted him the privilege of being heard in the case.

Bro. Perry then spoke in defense of the action of the lodge. He stated that in the case of the election of Bro. Walker the mistake was immediately discovered and the brother removed from office. He stated also that the reply of the lodge to the charges showed such to be a fact, and he could not therefore see any reason at this late date for a recommendation to that effect from the committee.

With reference to the illegality of the fines imposed upon Bro. S.H. Wilkins Bro. Perry said any consideration of that portion of the complaint is wholly unwarranted by the laws of the Order for the reason that sixty-four (64) days had expired before the brother noted an appeal from the action of the N. G.

Bro. F.D. Lee moved as a substitute for the motion of Bro. Carter that the action of the lodge be sustained in each instance. The substitute was adopted.

6th. Mrs. Virginia Duckett vs. John F. Cook Lodge No. 1185: To the District Grand Master, Deputy, Officers and Members of District Grand Lodge No. 20:

Greeting: We, your committee to whom was referred the case of Mrs. Virginia Duckett against John F. Cook Lodge No. 1185 for failure to bury her husband, Bro. James Duckett, beg leave to report our findings: We observed that the above named brother received a notice of his indebtedness to the lodge from the P.S. Nov. 18, 1892, which then amounted to five dollars and fifty cents ($5.50) 0030 30dollars. On December 26, 1892, Mrs. Duckett the wife of the deceased, called at the residence of the P.S. and paid five ($5.00) dollars, leaving a balance of fifty (50) cents due on the amount stated in the notification.

In the month of January 1893 she paid the balance of this indebtedness.

Bro. Duckett died January 22, 1893, and not withstanding the fact that according to law 69. page 47 of the revised General Laws he was not beneficial, the N.G. and P.S. of John F. Cook Lodge—upon information of his death—proceeded to make the customary funeral arrangements. Upon being informed by the P.S. that the brother was allright the N.G. had the body removed from Freedman's Hospital to the late residence of the deceased, had it embalmed and gave the widow to understand that she could select a coffin (not to exceed in cost, the usual appropriation) and John F. Cook Lodge would be present in lodge capacity and take charge on the day of the funeral.

The lodge then held a special meeting and there the vast and painful mistake of its officers was discovered.

A committee was forthwith appointed to visit Mrs. Duckett at once and inform her that according to law 69, page 47 of the revised General Laws John F. Cook Lodge could not take charge of the body, and advised her to make other arrangements.

Said committee arrived at her house and imparted this information about 1:30 o'clock in the morning: just a few hours prior to the time set for the funeral.

Upon the evidence produced we find further that John F. Cook Lodge has established a by-law which authorizes the P.S. to refuse to accept the dues or taxes of any brother unless the same is paid at a regular or special meeting by said brother in person. Bro. Duckett being one of the unfortunates who, by reason of circumstances was unable to visit the lodge, naturally suffered in consequence of this by-law.

With the fact that the painful mistake on the part of John F. Cook Lodge (through its principal officers) set aside all other help which the widow might have obtained had the understanding been different: and in as much as it took charge of the body after death, removed it from the hospital, had it embalmed, made arrangements for the funeral, and then at the last hour so to speak-dropped their burden upon the shoulders of the frail, grief stricken widow: we are of the opinion that to have given her the benefit of their mistake could have been no greater violation of our laws than the course they pursued.

We therefore recommend for the sake of justice, and the high reputation the Order enjoys in the District, that John F. Cook Lodge be held responsible for its mistake and that Mrs. Duckett be paid within four (4) months the funeral allowance for the death of her husband, first deducting the amount ($13.50) which she has already received.

Respectfully submitted Charles H. Brown, Chairman. James H. Scott, H.W. Crump, J.H. Coghill, William Murray. Committee.

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Bro. F. D. Lee moved the adoption of the Committee's report.

Bro. John A. Simms was granted the privilege of being heard as the counsel of the lodge in the case and objected to the adoption of the report. He reviewed the history of the case from the day the brother was carried to the hospital up to the time of his death, and stated that every act of Bro. Duckett and his wife in the matter was a part of a well laid scheme to defraud the lodge. He also stated during his remarks that the actions of the lodge in the matter were justified by the General Laws of the Order, and the report of the committee was made up from a sympathetic feeling which is commendable in itself, calculated to work irremediable mischief when applied to the working of a beneficial institution.

The report of the committee and the justice of the claim of Mrs. Duckett were ably championed by Bro. F.D. Lee, who roundly denounced the action of the lodge in the matter as having a tendency to brand the order as an institution of impostors, unworthy of the confidence and respect of the uninitiated, untrue to its members and wholly unfit to be called a friend to the widow and orphan.

Bros. George A. Carter and Algier White both spoke in defense of the report of the committee, and the motion to adopt was carried by a vote of 27 to 4.

Bro. John Keyes of John F. Cook Lodge gave notice that the case would be appealed to the “S.C.M.”

It was then past eleven o'clock and Bro. J.W. Davis moved that a recess be taken until Tuesday. Oct. 17th. The motion prevailed and the fifth session of the Thirteenth Annual Meeting closed with the Ritual ceremonies of the Order and prayer by the Chaplain.

SIXTH SESSION. Odd Fellows' New Hall., 1606 M St. N.W. Washington. D.C. Oct. 17, 1893. The Sixth Session of the Thirteenth Annual Meeting was called to order by the D.G. Master promptly at eight o'clock.

The roll of officers was called and all answered present except the Chaplain and Guardian, which vacancies were filled by the temporary appointment of Bros. Oscar Peebles and James E. Ennis.

The Warden examined the brethren, reported them as 0032 32being in possession of the pass-word, and the ceremony of opening was completed by singing the opening ode prayer by the acting Chaplain and honors three times three.

Thirty-three delegates were present at the opening. The record of the proceedings of the fifth session was read and approved.

The Chairman of the Committee on Grievances reported that all cases that had come under their notice had been acted upon and the business of the committee about completed.

The D.G. Master congratulated them on the business like manner in which the cases were handled, and on motion of Bro. Watson the committee was discharged.

APPEALS. Bro. John Keyes gave notice that, in behalf of Bro. John A. Simms, he would take an appeal to the S. C. M., from the decision of the District Grand Master rendered September 25, and denying to said Bro. Simms the right of membership of the Grand Body by reason of his having been a member of the District Lodge at is formation and its first District Master.

The D.G. Master cited article H, section 5, page 16 of the constitution of District Grand Lodges as the grounds upon which the decision was based.

Several brethren took exception to the wording of the appeal, stating that it seemed to place the responsibility upon the D.G. Master individually.

In order to test the sense of the house as to the proper placing of the responsibility Bro. Chas. Brown moved that the decision stand as the decision of the D.G. Lodge, and the motion was adopted by a vote of 31 to 1.

The D.G. Master read law 100, section IV, page 79, of the revised General Laws, as governing the matter of appeal and informed the brother that the requirements as laid down in said section must be complied with before any further action could be taken in the matter.

REPORT OF A COMMITTEE. The committee to whom was referred the report of the “Special Committee on the Investigation of the Management of the Banquet held in Market Hall, October 6, 1891” presented the following corrected report:

To the Worthy District Grand Master, Deputy Officers and Members of District Grand Lodge, No. 20.

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Greeting: We, your committee to whom were referred back for completion our report and recommendations on the brief and summary of the findings of the B. M. C. Investigation Committee beg leave to submit the following:-

After a careful second review of the testimony and reports placed in our custody, we found nothing new and have consequently agreed to adhere to our former report with the exception of showing in writing why we believe that Bro. Thomas H. Wright and David Warner were not implicated in purchasing wines, Liquors, champagne and cigars and why we believe they should not be held responsible for purchasing, disposing of, or paying bills for said articles, and should be exonerated.

As we attempted to show in our first report Bros. Jackson, Young and Montague were placed, or placed themselves, in such important positions that they would have received the highest praise for success, or a censure for negligence and wrong doing.

We found sufficient reason to believe that the alleged deficiency, mismanagement and unfair methods of certain brethren having charge of the banquet were proven to be true.

We found from the testimony that not only a shortage appears in the money from the sale of tickets, but from the cloak rooms and stands; and also that extravagance was carried on in a shameful way, thus causing quite a loss of money to the twenty four (24) lodges of the District: and after giving the whole matter careful consideration your committee are of the opinion that Bro. W. H. Jackson of Osceola Lodge No. 2033, Chairman of the Banquet Committee: W. H. A. Young of Free Grace Lodge No. 1343. Chairman of the General Committee: and W. D. Montague of Wm. A. Freeman Lodge No. 2099, Treasurer of the Banquet Committee, are wholly and solely responsible for the unbusiness like manner in which the affair was conducted.

The testimony shows that preparation were made for the accommodation of 5000 person at the banquet: that 300 tickets were printed: 1707 received at the door on the night of the banquet, and $1484.50 in cash: thus leaving a discrepancy between the tickets and cash received of $164.50.

The testimony also shows that large and unnecessary quantities of eatables, groceries, wines, liquors, champagne and cigars were purchased by Bros. Jackson and Montague without the authority of General of Executive Committee and paid for with the approval of W.H.A. Young, Chairman of the General Committee.

We believe that the heavy loss resulting from the sales at the tables was due to the bad management of Bro. Jackson who, after having paid high prices for large quantities of supplies allowed them to be wasted and squandered.

We believe also that Bros. Montague should have turned over all money in his possession to Bro. Eugene Brooks on the night of the Banquet as he was requested to do, and not carried away before it was even counted.

We blamed Bro. Young for having approved the payment of bills before they were presented to the General Committee of the B.M.C.

In conclusion we make the following recommendation.

1st. That Bros. W. H. Jackson, W. D. Montague and W. H. A. Young be brief before their respective lodges for misappropriating the funds of the Order.

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2nd. That a copy of the testimony taken before the Committee Investigating the Management of the Banquet be furnished to the various lodges interested.

3rd. That a conservative safe course be pursued as the best way out of the present difficulty, trusting that the D.G. Lodge may act in a judicious and brotherly manner in the case and that there may not be the loss of a single friend or a dollar to the Order.

In reference to Bros. Wright and Warner the following extracts are cited to show the ground upon which we base the belief that Bros. Jackson, Montague and Young should be held for the Misappropriation of the funds and why Bros. Wright and Warner should be exonerated of any implication whatever in the affair: Bro. W.H. Jackson of Osceola Lodge No. 2033, made the following statement before the Special Committee: “I was appointed chairman of the Banquet Committee and said committee assumed the responsibility of paying all bills contracted by its members without making any report to the General Committee so as prevent burdens from falling upon them.”

The money was not counted at the hall that night because of a difference of opinion between the chairman of the General Committee and myself; but within thirty six (36) hours after the banquet all bills of importance had been paid by Mr. Montague.”

At a subsequent meeting of our committee Bro. Jackson made this statement: “I approved a bill of $14.00 for hack hire and used the hack for my committee from 9:30 a. m. Oct. 6th to 2:30 a. m. Oct. 7th,1892.”

Testimony of Grand Director David A Clark: “I was a member of the Executive Committee and have no knowledge of authority having been given any one to purchase liquors. The instructions to the Chairman of the Executive Committee were that all bills and lists of articles should be presented to the committee.”

Testimony of Bro. T. H. Wright: “I had 300 or 400 tickets for the B. M. C. delegates and gave them to Bro. Warner for distribution. I was in the wine room with Prof. Langston, Theodore Green and Matthews, and rode in the carriage once, then escorting Commissioner Douglass to the church.”

Bro. Wright was called a second time and re-affirmed his former statement and also said he knew nothing of the purchase of wines and liquors.

Bro. Jackson appeared a third time before the committee and testified that Bros. Warner, Wright and Montague were the wine committee.

Testimony of Bro. Warner: “I had nothing to do with the private banquet, was not appointed as member of any committee on wines and did not go with any gentlemen to purchase the same.”

“I accompanied the committee only once and that time only as a security and in no other capacity.” In closing his testimony Bro. Warner declared that he had no knowledge of such and extensive purchase of wines and liquors and had no connection with the finances of the banquet, at the door, the table or otherwise.

Bro. Montague in his testimony said that he, Bro. Jackson and Bro. Warner, were associated in the purchase of groceries; and that he, Bro. Wright and Bro. Warner jointly secured the hall. He also said that He ordered the wines of Hume, and Conroy, and that no 0035 35one accompanied him, but that Bros. Young, Wright and Jackson were aware of the fact that the purchases were made. He said further that no bills were paid without the consent of Bro. Young, Chairman of the General Committee, who had full knowledge of all the affairs.

Now in conclusion your committee desire to state that nothing shows that Bros. Wright and Warner were charged with any specific duty, nor were they at the head of any committee or committees.

If wine and champagne were placed in the janitor's room on the night of the banquet for the Grand Officers of the Order and a few distinguished visitors we believe that Bros. Wright, Warner, Webster or Algier White had as great a right to go there and take a glass as did Bro Norwood or any other invited gentlemen, and yet not be held responsible for the great loss which the Order sustained.

Since Bros. Wright and Warner have handled and accurately accounted for so many thousands of dollars of the money of the Order we are not yet ready to believe that they would become accessory to any scheme which would impede the progress of our grand and noble institution, but to the contrary like Webster, Watson, Algier White and others, have been, are today, and we trust forever shall be, giving their time and money for the final completion of the work which they have nobly begun.

We feel it our duty to say a word of praise for the labors of the Investigation Committee for bringing this matter to light, and in conclusion make the following brief:-

1st. Bro. Jackson made extravagant contracts for supplies as shown above and failed to present bills and lists to the proper committees for approval.

Bro. Jackson claims that the hack, for the hire of which $14.00 was paid, was for the use of his committee and yet the only time we find it used for that purpose is when the Commissioner was carried to the church.

2nd. Bro. Montague purchased the wines and liquors, collected the receipts from the refreshment and candy stands, and from the sale of tickets: and refused to turn the money over to Bro. Eugene Brooks, the Treasurer of the General Committee of the B.M.C. with the unbecoming remark that would see him in—first.

3rd. Bro. Young knew full well that many of the bills which he approved and ordered paid were not legal, nor had they the approval of the proper committees. Bros. Young and Montague went to Market Hall on the morning after the banquet and paid bills, and paid one Bro. W.M. Jackson $2.00 to cart certain articles to their residences.

We, your committee, fail to find Bros. Wright and Warner in any way connected with or responsible for this bad management and sincerely recommend that the said two brothers whose honesty and integrity have never been questioned, and who have conducted the financial affairs connected with this building to the full satisfaction of all concerned, be exonerated.

Respectfully submitted in F., L. and T., Jeremiah Adams, Chairman. George W. Pinkney, William Trice, John Keyes, John H. Thomas, Committee.

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Bro. H.L. Livingston moved that all testimony in the case taken before the original committee be read.

Motion ruled out.

Bro. F.D. Lee moved the adoption of the report and recommendations.

Bro. C.H. Brown moved to lay the motion on the table until after the reading of the testimony taken before the original committee. The motion was seconded by Bro. Livingston, put to vote and declared lost.

On motion of Bro. Geo. White the question was taken without further debate and, the motion adopted as offered by Bro. Lee by a vote of 20 to 14.

The Executive Committee made the following report:— REPORT OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE On the Complainant of Pacl R. Stewart, Jeremiah Smith, ET AL., Against the Action of Osceola Lodge, No. 2033, in Levying a Special Assessment and Denying the Right of Protest. To District Grand Lodge No. 20, We, your Executive Committee, respectfully report that in compliance with the instructions as embodied in the resolution offered by Bro. Hunter and adopted by the D.G. Lodge at its meeting Sept. 13th, a copy of the above named complaint was forwarded to Osceola Lodge Oct. 2, 1895.

The Lodge has not yet made reply to said paper and as the law allows thirty (30) days in which to do so, we respectfully recommend that the Executive Committee, when elected, be empowered to render a final decision in the case.

Fraternally submitted, D.B. Webster. D.G. Master. Samuel Hunter, Deputy D.G.M. Samuel W. Watson. D.G. Sec'y John W. Walker, D.G. Treasurer. J. Gardner Terley. } H.L. Livingston.} D.G. Directors. J.W. Davis.}

On motion of Bro. James E. Ennis the report and recommendation were adopted as read.

PROTEST. Bro. James W. Jones appeared as counsel for Bro. S.H. Wilkins in his complaint against Old Ark Lodge No. 1695 and after stating his reason for not appearing at the previous session and the grounds upon which he thought an 0037 37injustice had been done the brother by the manner in which the case had been disposed of, asked that it be reopened for another hearing.

The D.G. Master stated that from evidence adduced the case had been given a fair and impartial trial and he was therefore compelled to rule against the request.

Bro. Samuel Hunter moved that a copy of the papers in the matter of the “B.M.C. Banquet Investigation” be furnished to each of the twenty four (24) lodges in the District, and the motion was rejected by a vote of 18 to 16.

RESOLUTIONS. Bro. J. W. Davis was granted permission to offer a series of resolutions, and they were read as follows:

Whereas: The Odd Fellows Hall Association, in its commendable progress and in the wise management of its affairs, justly merits our sympathy, our support and our aid:

And whereas, we feel that as the District Grand Lodge, having the general oversight of all branches of the Order in the District, we should give some expression in relation to the great work in which this association is engaged:

Now Therefore be it resolved by the District Grand Lodge, in annual meeting assembled-that we heartily commend the work of the Odd Fellows' Hall Association and hereby tender to the officers and members thereof, our sincere appreciation of their labors and beg leave to assure them of our hearty co-operation in the grand work in which they are engaged.

Resolved Further—that desirous of doing all we can to evince our warm interest in the work and to encourage and stimulate an increased zeal and activity on the part of the Order-the District Grand Lodge hereby submits to the several Lodges and Households the following recommendations:

First: That each Lodge and Household, be, and they are, hereby requested to adopt and put into execution some plan, whereby there shall be collected from each and every member thereof, as a voluntary contribution, the sum of One Dollar ($1.00) the same to be paid over to the Hall Association, at its December meeting, the aggregate amount so collected and paid to be credited as stock to the Lodge or Household so presenting it.

Secondly: That we tender to the Lodges and other branches of the Order in West Washington our sincere congratulations on the initial steps taken toward the erection of a hall for the use and convenience and we will do all we can in furtherance of their most laudable and praise-worthy undertaking.

Thirdly: That the officers and members of the District Grand Lodge be, and they are, hereby requested and urged to give this matter their hearty support and do all they can to carry out the recommendations herein made.

Fourthly: That the District Grand Secretary be, and he is, hereby directed to transmit a duly certified copy of these resolutions to each of the Lodges and Households and also to the Board of Directors of the Hall Association.

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Bro. Jeremiah Adams moved the adoption of the resolutions.

This provoked a lengthy discussion from several of the members because of the thought that the one ($1.00) dollar clause was to be compulsory instead of voluntary, and a second reading was demanded. The paper was read a second time and on motion of Bro. James A. Wade the question was ordered to be taken without further debate.

The motion of Bro. Adams was then agreed to.

“B.M.C. “REGISTER. The register used by the Reception Committee of the last “B. M. C.” was presented to the District Grand Lodge as the proper custodian thereof, and on motion of Bro. John W. Walker it was received and ordered to be placed in the archives.

The Secretary stated that at present there is no provision made for the storing of the accumulated property of the D. G. Lodge, and on motion of Bro. John W. Walker a box (not to exceed five ($5.00) dollars in cost) was ordered to be purchased and placed in a convenient part of the hall for the storage of such books, papers, etc., as are not needed by the Secretary for ready reference.

PRINTING. Bro John W. Walker moved that seventy-five ($75.00) dollars, or so much thereof as may be necessary, be appropriated to pay the cost of printing the proceedings.

Bro. Samuel Hunter moved to amend by striking out seventy-five($75.00) dollars and inserting one-hundred ($100.00) dollars instead thereof.

The amendment was agreed to, and the motion adopted as amended.

James W. Davis, Paul R. Stewart and James T. Cole, Committee.

APPROPRIATIONS. The following appropriations were made:

Twenty ($20.00) dollars for last half of salary of Secretary.

Ten ($10.00)dollars for stationery, stamps, etc., for the office of the Secretary.

Eight ($8.00) dollars to the Hall Committee for rent.

Eight ($8.00) dollars to the Expense of the Executive Committee.

0039 39

Five ($5.00) dollars to the janitor.

Forty-five(45)cents to re-imburse the Chairman of the Grievance Committee.

The business on the calendar having been completed the D.G. Master stated that the next in order was the election of officers.

He then placed Bro. J.G. Turley in the chair as temporary Presiding Officer.

NOMINATIONS AND ELECTIONS. DISTRICT GRAND MASTER. Nominations for District Grand Master were made as follows:

Bro. Daniel B. Webster, by Bro. Jeremiah Adams.

“ Samuel Hunter, “ “ Charles H. Brown.

Bro. Hunter declined and Bro. Daniel B. Webster of Green Mountain Lodge No. 1477, was unanimously re-elected as District Grand Master for one year.

DEPUTY DISTRICT GRAND MASTER. Nominations for Deputy District Grand Master were made as follows:

Bro. J.G. Turley, by Bro. J.A. Wade.

“ C.H. Brown, “ “ Algier White.

“ Sam'l Hunter,” “ W. W Walker.

“ C.S. Duckett,” “ G.W. Pinkney.

Bro. Hunter declined.

Bros. James T. Walker and L.W. Fantleroy were appointed tellers.

The ballot resulted as follows: Bro. Turley, 16; Bro. Brown, 17; Bro. Duckett, 2. No choice.

The name of Bro. Duckett was dropped and on the next ballot Bro. Turley received 15 and Bro. Brown 20 votes.

Bro. Charles H. Brown of Traveling Pilgrims Lodge No. 2358, having received a majority of all the votes cast was declared elected as Deputy District Grand Master for one year.

DISTRICT GRAND SECRETARY. Bro. Samuel W. Watson, of William A. Freeman Lodge No. 2099, was unanimously re-elected as District Grand Secretary for one year.

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DISTRICT GRAND TREASURER. Nominations for District Grand Treasurer were made as follows:

Bro. John W. Walker, by Bro. L. W. Fauntleroy.

“ James W. Davis, “ “ J. T. Walker.

The ballot resulted as follows: Bro. Walker, 18; Bro. Davis, 15.

Bro. John W. Walker of Potomac Union Lodge No. 892 having received a majority of all the votes cast, was declared elected District Treasurer for one year.

DISTRICT GRAND DIRECTORS. Nominations for three Districts Grand Directorship were made as follows:

Bro. F.D. Lee, by Bro. J. W. Davis.

“ H.L. Livingston, “ “ W.W. Walker.

“ J.G. TURLEY, “ “ George White.

“ Algier White, “ “ C.H. Brown.

“ J.A. Wade, “ “ Algier White.

“ G.A. Carter, “ “ Oscar Peebles.

Bro. Livingston declined, the nominations were closed and the ballot resulted as follows:

Bro. Lee, 27; Bro. Turley, 15; Bro. White, 22; Bro. Wade, 19; Bro. Carter, 16.

Bro. Ferdinand D. Lee, of Eastern Star Lodge No. 1028: Bro Algier White, of Free Grace Lodge No. 1343; and Bro. James A. Wade, of Union Light Lodge No. 1965, having received a majority of all votes cast, were declared elected as the three District Grand Directors for one year.

DISTRICT GRAND MARSHAL. Nominations were made for the District Grand Marshal as follows:

Bro. W.W. Ware, by Bro. G.A. Carter.

“ Henry Stewart, “ “ J.H. Scott.

“ W.J. Wilkins, “ “ W.W. Walker.

“ Henry Crump, “ “ C.H. Brown.

“ J.H. Coghill, “ “ C.T. Buchanan.

Bro. Stewart declined in favor of his colleague, Bro. Ware.

A ballot was taken and resulted as follows: Bro. Ware, 12; Bro. Wilkins, 4; Bro. Crump, 7; Bro. Coghill, 9. No choice.

0041 41

The names of Bros. Crump and Wilkins were dropped and the second ballot resulted as follows:

Bro. Ware, 15; Bro. Coghill, 14; scattering 2. No choice.

3rd ballot: Bro. Ware, 15, Bro. Coghill, 17.

Bro. John H. Coghill, of Mount Olive Lodge No. 1333. having received a majority of all the votes cast, was declared elected District Grand Marshal for one year, thus completing the annual election of officers.

The District Grand Master resumed his duties as Presiding Officer.

THANKS TO OFFICERS The following resolution was offered by Bro. J. W. Davis and unanimously adopted:

“Resolved. That the thanks of District Grand Lodge No. 20 be extended to District Grand Master Daniel B. Webster for his impartial rulings through the meetings of the Thirteenth Annual Session, and also to District Grand Secretary Samuel W. Watson for the able manner in which he has conducted the business of his office.”

ORGAN OF THE ORDER. The District Grand Master stated that he has been a constant reader of the Colored American from its first issue down to the present time and is favorably impressed with the paper and considers it worthy of the confidence of the Order.

He further said that Bro. Lee, one of the newly elected Directors, is one of its correspondents and he took pleasure in recommending it as the organ of the Order in the District of Columbia.

The recommendation was heartily approved and the paper selected for the purposes named.

INSTALLATION. The District Grand Master invited the assistance of Bros. H.L. Livingston and J.W. Davis and the officers for the ensuing year were installed as follows:

DISTRICT GRAND MASTER. Daniel B. Webster, M.V.P., of lodge No. 1477.

DEPUTY DISTRICT GRAND MASTER. Charles H. Brown, P.G.M., of lodge No. 2358.

0042 42

DISTRICT GRAND SECRETARY. Samuel W. Watson, M.V.P., of Lodge. No. 2099.

DISTRICT GRAND TREASURER. John W. Walker, M.V.P., of Lodge No. 892.

DISTRICT GRAND DIRECTORS. Ferdinand D. Lee, P.N.F., of Lodge No. 1028. Algier White, P.N.F., of Lodge No. 1343. James A. Wade, P.N.F., of Lodge No. 1965.

DISTRICT GRAND MARSHAL. John H. Coghill, P.N.F. of Lodge No. 1333.

Each officer expressed his thanks for the honor conferred and pledged himself to do all in his power for the continued success and prosperity of the Order.

The business of the Thirteenth Annual Session (and 1st since re-organization) was declared to be completed, and the District Grand Lodge adjourned with the usual closing ceremonies of the Order. M.V.P. Daniel B. Webster, District Grand Master. {SEAL.} M.V.P. Samuel W. Watson, District Grand Secretary.

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IN MEMORIAM. Name. Lodge. Died. Bro.Wilson Johnson - Potomac Union, 892 1892 Aug. 28 Joel T. Brown - Eastern Star, - 1028 1892 Aug. — Robert Anderson - A.K. Manning, 2361 1892 Oct. 3 William H. Reeves - Potomac Union, 892 1892 Oct. 4 John Racks - - Free Grace, - 1343 1892 Oct. 5 Samuel H. Mack - Social, - 1819 1892 Oct. 14 James H. Thomas Eastern Star, - 1028 1892 Oct. — Philip Jones - - Green Mountain, 1477 1892 Nov. 3 Frank Fantroy - John F. Cook, - 1185 1892 Nov. 12 James Dover - - Union Light - 1965 1892 Nov. 22 Nathan Jones - Simon, - 1602 1892 Nov. 27 Zachariah Sardin - Old Ark, - 1695 1892 Dec. 3 Silas French - Peter Ogden, - 1374 1892 Dec. 7 Charles Smith - Social, - 1819 1892 Dec. 23 Albert Parker - Simon, - 1602 1892 Dec. 24 George Gainor - John F. Cook, - 1185 1892 Dec. 25 R.T. Clark - Osceola, - 2033 1892 Dec. 26 William West - Trav'ling Pilgrims 2358 1892 Dec. — Wm. L. Freeman. - John F. Cook, 1185 1893 Jan'y 14 Levi Herbert — Columbia, - 1376 1893 Jan'y 19 Edward Nervis - Union Light - 1965 1893 Jan'y 23 Shedrach Gaskins - Simon, - 1602 1893 Jan'y 28 Tonley Brown - Bloom of Youth, 1368 1893 Feb'y 21 Alexander Speaks - Green Mountain, 1477 1893 Mar. 13 Richard Johnson - Eastern Star, - 1028 1893 Mar. — Edward Stewart - Star of the West, 1369 1893 Apr. 7 Uriah Daly - Mount Olive, - 1333 1893 Apr. 11 James Williams - Social, - 1819 1893 Apr. 23 George Brown - A.K. Manning, 2361 1893 May 24 Stephen Smith - Union Friendship, 891 1893 May 28 William Finney - Star of the West, 1369 1893 May 31 Sulivan T. Jones - Peter Ogden, - 1374 1893 May — Thomas A. Johnson John F. Cook, - 1185 1893 June 1 Richard Moore - Simon, - 1602 1893 June 2 Thomas Dorsey - Rising Sun - 1365 1893 June 19 Robert Tyler - - Bloom of Youth, 1368 1893 June 19 Danridge Carr - A. K. Manning, 2361 1893 July 3 J.T. Hill - - Rising Sun, - 1365 1893 July 16 Banks L. Wright - Wm. A. Freeman, 2099 1893 July 22

“I am the resurection and the life: he that believeth on me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:"-John, 11:25.

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Annual Statement of Persons Rejected. Name of Person Rejected. By What Lodge Rejected. Green, Robert Simon. No. 1602. Annual Statement of Clearance Cards Granted. To Whom Granted. By What Lodge Granted. Wells, John H Free Grace, No. 1343. Smith, Alexander Green Mountain, No. 1447. Wade, L. A Rose Hill, No. 1726. Annual Statement of Members Reinstated. Name of Members Reinstated. To What Lodge Reinstated. Brown, Charles Eastern Star, No. 1028. Philipsen. L N “ “ “ “ Smith, Harrison “ “ “ “ Perritt, George W Mount Olive, “ 1333. Bagby, H. M Free Grace, “ 1343. Beale, Charles “ “ “ “ Harris, Samuel “ “ “ “ Kinscaid, George. W “ “ “ “ Lee, Henry C “ “ “ “ Perrett, George W “ “ “ “ Roberts, James H “ “ “ “ Thomas, Jasper “ “ “ “ Brown, H. E Green Mountain “ 1477 Clark, Authur “ “ “ “ Spriggs, James H “ “ “ “ Games, J. W Simon, “ “ 1602. Lee, Thomas H “ “ “ “ Tyler, William “ “ “ “ Watts, Nelson “ “ “ “ West, Thomas H “ “ “ “ Cole, Joseph Social, “ “ “ Grantling, Samuel “ “ “ “ Nelson, R “ “ “ “ Proctor, William “ “ “ “ 0045 45Annual Statement of Members Suspended. Names of Member Suspended. From What Lodge Suspended. Clifton, William Free Grace, No. 1343 Davis, A.H Old Ark, “ “ Davis, John A “ “ “ “ Duncan, W.W “ “ “ “ Fields, Charles “ “ “ “ Payne, John H “ “ “ “ Reusell, John “ “ “ “ Thomas, W.A “ “ “ “ Waddy, Frederick “ “ “ “ Green, Lewis Wm. A. Freeman, “ 2099 Hammond, Pleasant “ “ “ “ Hunter, James R “ “ “ “ Reed, James W “ “ “ “ Thornton, Presley E “ “ “ “ Annual Statement of Members Forfeited. Names of Member Forfeited. In What Lodge Forfeited. Cook, W.H Potomac Union, No. 892. Garrett, David Eastern Star, “ 1028. Harrod, Lucius “ “ “ “ McCorpin, John “ “ “ “ Daw, John A John F. Cook, No. 1185 Dawson, St. Clair “ “ “ Fantroy, Robert “ “ “ Green, John M “ “ “ Jones, John H “ “ “ Lacy, John “ “ “ Lyons, James “ “ “ McCoy, John “ “ “ Posey, Francis “ “ “ Proctor, Lemuel “ “ “ Slater, Louis “ “ “ Southall, Edwards “ “ “ Thomas, Charles “ “ “ Clayborn, Alexander Mount Olive, No. 1333. Baker, Henry Free Grace, “ 1343. Bryant, Edward “ “ “ Carter, Lee “ “ “ Carter, Peter H “ “ “ Douglass, Peter B “ “ “ Ewell, Henry “ “ “ Gassaway, Charles “ “ “ Hogans, Anderson “ “ “ Lee, Jerry “ “ “ Moore, Daniel “ “ “ Smith, Jesse “ “ “ Smith, R.J “ “ “ 0046 46Name of Member Forfeited. In What Lodge Forfeited. Young, W. H. A Free Grace, No. 1343. Curtis, James W Rising Sun, 1365. Fleming, John “ “ “ Edmonston, T. J “ “ “ Hatcher, J. H “ “ “ Hunt, James E “ “ “ Lewis, Louis “ “ “ Lipscomb, E. H “ “ “ Neal, Horatio “ “ “ Webster, Edward “ “ “ Over, Andrew Star of the West, 1369. Catlett, A. H Peter Ogden, 1374 Smith James H “ “ “ Bird, Albert Columbia, 1376 Stark, Robert “ “ Hawks, Barclay Western Star, 1380 Tubman, Benjamin “ “ “ Avant, W. G Green Mountain, 1477 Garland, Richard “ “ “ Samuel, John “ “ “ Spillard, Wm. F “ “ “ Bagby, H. M Rose Hill, 1726 Thomas, Jasper “ “ “ Blagdon, William Osceola, 2033 Parker, Alfred “ “ Wayne, Abraham “ “ Bannister, W. H Wm. A. Freeman, 2099 Dale, Frank “ “ “ Greer, R. C “ “ “ Robinson, Joshua “ “ “ Taylor, Wellington “ “ “ Thomas, John E “ “ “ Nuby H Traveling Pilgrims, 2358 Swann, H “ “ “ Williams, J “ “ “ Bailey, Isaac W A. K. Manning, 2361 Barnes, George W “ “ Bowen, Wendell “ “ Brown, David “ “ Brown, James “ “ Fitz hugh, George “ “ Gant, Edward F “ “ Harris, James “ “ Hubbard, Madison “ “ Johnson, Robert “ “ Jones, Thornton “ “ Tolbert, Wm. B “ “ Weaver, Richard “ “ Weaver, Jesse “ “ Williams, Charles H “ “ Bailey, Ephraim Golden Reef, 2362 0047 47Name of Member Forfeited. In What Lodge Forfeited. Bowens, Thomas Golden Reef, 2362 Cornish, W. A “ “ Derrow, A. E “ “ Derrow, F. W “ “ Holmes Carter “ “ Ramsey, Robert “ “ Ray, J. K “ “ Scott, C. W “ “ Annual Statement of Members Expelled. Name of Member Expelled. From What Lodge Expelled. John T. Cheschire Peter Ogden, No. 1374.

0048 48

SECRETARY's REPORT. Washington. D.C., Aug., 1, 1893. To the Officers and Members of District Grand Lodge No. 20, G.U.O. of O.F.:

Brethren—I have the honor to present my eighth report as the servant of this body, and the first since its organization into a District Grand Lodge.

It is a source of great pleasure that your Secretary is able to report that the past year of the Order in the District of Columbia has been marked with continuous prosperity and success.—It has steadily increased its membership, extended its reputation, and vastly enlarged its usefulness.

While the prosperity and success of the Order in the District of Columbia has been such as to call forth hearty congratulations, it is abundantly capable of rising to a higher and grander plane of usefulness, until it shall rank among the greatest of the world's institutions of beneficence, and become the crowning glory of our city and the District.

By a united, energetic effort on the part of the brethren the interest of its masses in our magnificent hall could be increased fourfold, and within a single year its usefulness would be immeasurably enhanced.

Our District grand Master has been untiring in has efforts to serve the Order, and has spared neither time nor money in endeavoring to place every branch of it in the foremost rank of honor and respect.

Your Secretary respectfully recommends that the valve of his services in the past be recognized by this District Grand Lodge, either by voting him a medal of honor or a sum of money, and that an amendment be added to the Constitution fixing a compensation to the office of District Grand Master large enough to at least pay the cost of his correspondence, and traveling expenses in making special visits to the several branches of the Order throughout the District.

The present Grand Secretary has instituted the custom of requiring each District Grand Secretary to report the condition of the Order in his jurisdiction and furnishes a “report form” for said purpose.

In order that the reports from the several lodges in the District may contain the information asked in the “report form” of the Grand Secretary, and also that of the District Grand Secretary may be more fully equipped for the duties required your Secretary respectfully recommends that a special committee of three (3) be appointed to ascertain the cost of the following articles:

1st. One electro-plated wood cut of the seal of the District Grand Lodge

2nd. Five-hundred (500) new “Report Blanks.”

3rd. One thousand (1,000) envelopes and one thousand (1,000) half sheets of letters size paper with the proper official heading.

Your Secretary also recommends that a special committee be appointed to ascertain the cost of seven (7) rosettes, to be worn on dress occasions by the District Grand Lodge Officers.

Hoping the succeeding officers will work a sarduously for the best interests of the Order as those whose terms are now about to expire, and wishing it unbounded success, I am. Fraternally yours, SAMUEL W. WATSON. District Grand Secretary, District Grand Lodge No. 20. G.U.O. of O.F.

0049 49

Statement of Cash received from August 1st. 1892, to July 31st, 1893. Date. From whom received and on what account Amt. 1892 Aug. 1 To balance in Treasury $25 30 Aug. 4 Am't rec'd as taxes for the year from Lodges No. 1376 3 12 Aug. 8 Am't rec'd as taxes for the year from Lodges No. 1376 2 82 Aug. 12 Am't rec'd as taxes for the year from Lodges No. 891 5 46 Aug. 15 Am't rec'd as taxes for the year from Lodges No. 1965 5 28 Aug. 15 Am't rec'd as taxes for the year from Lodges No. 1185 6 96 Aug. 19 Am't rec'd as taxes for the year from Lodge No. 1477 8 10 Aug. 25 Am't rec'd as H.H. Dispensation. from Lodge No. 1437 1 00 Aug. 26 Am't rec'd as taxes for the year from Lodge 1819 6 72 Sept. 3 Am't rec'd as taxes for the year from Lodge 2099 6 42 Sept. 8 Am't rec'd as taxes for the year from Lodge 1343 8 88 Sept. 10 Am't rec'd as taxes for the year from Lodge 1602 7 98 Sept. 12 Am't rec'd as taxes for the year from Lodge 1369 5 70 Sept. 12 Am't rec'd as taxes for the year from Lodge 1374 8 62 Sept. 12 Am't rec'd as taxes for the year from Lodge 1028 5 56 Sept. 12 Am't rec'd as taxes for the year from Lodge 1333 4 44 Sept. 12 Am't rec'd as taxes for the year from Lodge 1695 7 26 Sept. 12 Am't rec'd as taxes for the year from Lodge 2361 5 58 Sept. 12 Am't rec'd as taxes for the year from Lodge 1726 4 92 Sept. 12 Am't rec'd as taxes for the year from Lodge 2358 4 24 Sept. 30 Am't rec'd as taxes for the year from Lodge 1437 4 44 Sept. 30 Am't rec'd as taxes for the year from Lodge 1365 7 42 Sept. 30 Am't rec'd as taxes for the year from Lodge 892 7 18 Sept. 30 Am't rec'd as taxes for the year from Lodge 1695 2 08 Nov. 19 Am't rec'd as taxes for the year from Lodge 1368 6 66 Nov. 19 Am't rec'd from Rev. G.H. Lee year from Lodge 4 70 Dec. 26 Am't rec'd as taxes Lodge 2033 6 48 Dec. 31 Am't rec'd as taxes Lodge 2362 5 52 1893 Feb. 6 Am't rec'd cost of proceedings Lodge 2099 3 75 Feb. 6 Am't rec'd cost of proceedings. Lodge 1380 3 75 Feb. 6 Am't rec'd cost of proceedings Lodge 1343 3 75 Feb. 7 Am't rec'd cost of proceedings. Lodge 2361 3 75 Feb. 9 Am't rec'd cost of proceedings. Lodge 1333 3 75 Feb. 11 Am't rec'd cost of proceedings Lodge 1374 3 75 Feb. 12 Am't rec'd cost of proceedings Lodge 1028 3 75 Feb. 14 Am't rec'd cost of proceedings Lodge 891 3 75 Feb. 15 Am't rec'd cost of proceedings Lodge 1376 3 75 Feb. 15 Am't rec'd cost of proceedings. Lodge 1477 3 75 Feb. 15 Am't rec'd cost of proceedings Lodge 1369 3 75 Feb. 15 Am't rec'd cost of proceedings Lodge 892 3 75 Feb. 16 Am't rec'd cost of proceedings Lodge 1965 3 75 Feb. 16 Am't rec'd cost of proceedings Lodge 1365 3 75 Feb. 16 Am't rec'd cost of proceedings Lodge 1819 3 75 Feb. 16 Am't rec'd cost of proceedings Lodge 1695 3 75 Feb. 24 Am't rec'd cost of proceedings Lodge 2362 3 75 Feb. 24 Am't rec'd cost of proceedings Lodge 1602 3 75 Mar. 1 Am't rec'd cost of proceedings Lodge 1726 3 75 0050 50Date. From whom received and on what account. Am't. 1893 Mar. 2 Am't rec'd cost of proceedings from Lodge No. 2033 $ 3 75 Mar. 14 Am't rec'd cost of proceedings from Lodge 1368 3 75 Mar. 18 Am't rec'd cost of proceedings from Lodge 1185 3 75 Mar. 23 Am't rec'd acct. of charges, Gunnell vs. 891 25 Mar. 24 Am't rec'd cost of proceedings. Lodge 1437 3 75 Mar. 27 Am't rec'd acct. of charges. Mack (Mrs.) vs. 1819 25 Mar. 27 Am't rec'd acct. of charges. Duckett (Mrs) 1185 25 Apr. 19 Am't rec'd acct. of charges. Jones (Mrs) 1477 25 July 11 Am't rec'd acct. of charges. Ingram 1374 25 July 28 Am't rec'd acct. of charges. George 1819 25 July 31 Am't rec'd acct. of charges. Wilkins 1695 25 July 31 refunded by the Hall Ass'n 6 50 ———- July 31 To total receipts 273 34 July 31 To total expenditures 252 45 ———- Aug. 1 To balance in Treasury 20 89 Statement of Cash expended from Aug. 1, 1892. to July 31, 1893. Date. For what Account Expended. Am't 1892 Sept. 30 By am't pd to Odd Fellows' Choir,- - - - $ 1 00 Sept. 30 By am't pd to Campbell for rent - - - 4 00 Sept. 30 By am't pd to S.N. Meyers for gavel - - 4 00 Sept. 30 By am't pd to Carriage hire - - - - 10 00 Oct. 17 By am't pd to Hall Committee for rent - - 5 00 Oct. 17 By am't pd to Extra postage for notices - - 30 Oct. 17 By am't pd to Services of janitor - - - 2 50 Oct. 17 By am't pd to L. and C. Hall Association for rent 2 50 Oct. 17 By am't pd to One-half year's salary to Secretary 20 00 Oct. 17 By am't pd to Street car tickets - - - 8 00 Oct. 17 By am't pd to Stationery, etc. - - - - 5 00 Oct. 17 By am't pd to Expen'd. B. Bowser Cor. Stone Laying 7 00 Dec. 22 By am't pd to Account of printing proceedings 25 00 1893 Jan. 19 By am't pd to Bal. on acct of printing proceedings 65 00 Jan. 19 By am't pd to Music for January 19th - - 15 00 Jan. 23 By am't pd to Incidental expenses of Treasurer 62 Feb. 6 By am't pd to Secretary's bond - - - - 50 Feb. 16 By am't pd to Twenty-five sermon ceremony books 53 Feb. 21 By am't pd to New seal and stamp - - - - 5 50 Feb. 21 By am't pd to Hall Association stock - - - - 20 00 May 1 By am't pd o One-half year's salary to Secretary 20 00 May 26 By am't pd to Hall Association stock - - - 20 00 July 26 By am't pd to Stationery etc. - - - - 1 00 July 28 By am't pd to Hall Association stock - - - 10 00 ———- July 31 By total expenditures - - - - - 252 45 July 31 By balance in Treasury - - - - - 20 89 ———- July 31 By Grand total - - - - - - - 273 34

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REPORT OF THE DISTRICT GRAND TREASURER. To the District Grand Master, Grand Secretary, Officers and Members of District Grand Lodge No. 20:- Greeting: I take great pleasure in making my Annual Report. When I look back to look back to five years ago, I see the great progress we have made. I see this grand structure which was dedicated to Friendship, Love and Truth and which I hope will be successful to the end. God has certainly blessed you in your efforts: without him we can do nothing. I hope this grand, old Order may ever stand true to the main principles of Odd Fellowship.

I would suggest to your Honorable Body that the five shares of stock be transferred from District Lodge, No. 20., to the District Grand Lodge. I have in my possession ten shares of stock which should be put in a safe place on account of fire. I also beg to call your attention to another item which is: that we had to spend $30 more for printing than was appropriated, and $1 more for stationery My books and paper are at your disposal, whenever called for.

RECEIPTS. EXPENDITURES. Am't brought forward - $ 25 70 1892. 1892. Sept. 30 Carriages B. M. C. Sept. 12 District Loege, - 109 06 Sept. 30 Parade, $10 00 Sept. 30 District Loege, - 21 12 Sept. 30 Choir, 1 00 Dec. 15 Secretary - - 11 36 Sept. 30 Rent, 4 00 1893 Sept. 30 Gavel, 4 00 Jan. 12 Secretary - - 12 00 Oct. 17 Rent, 2 50 Feb. 18 - - - - 18 75 Oct. 17 Travel. of Ex. Comm., 8 00 Feb. 21 - - - 41 25 Oct. 17 Stationery etc., 5 00 May 23 Secretary - 27 25 Oct. 17 Notices to Delega's 30 July 31 Secretary - - 7 25 Oct. 17 Reimbursing D. B. ———- Bowser, - - 7 00 Total received, - - $273 74 Oct. 17 Services of L. H. Total expended, - - 252 45 Oct. 17 Parke, - - 2 50 ———- Oct. 17 Rent, - - 5 00 Balance, - - 21 29 Dec. 22 1st pay on print'g, 25 00 1893. 1893. Jan. 19 Music at Dedication, 15 00 Jan. 19 Bal. on Printing, - 65 00 Jan. 23 Incidentals, - 62 Feb. 6 Renewing Bond, - 50 Feb. 16 25 cop. Ceremony etc., 53 Feb. 21 Making seal and re- pairing stamp, 5 50 Feb. 21 D. G. L. stock sub., 20 00 May 1 Secretary's salary, 20 00 May 26 Hall stock for D.G.L. 20 00 July 26 Stamp for office, - 1 00 July 26 Stock, D.G.L., 10 00 ———- Total expended, - $252 45

I remain very respectfully, JOHN W. WALKER, District Grand Treasurer.

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LODGES. No of Name of Time of Place of Lodge Lodge. Meeting Meeting 891 Union Friendship 1st and 3rd Tuesdays 1606 M St., N.W. 892 Potomac Union 1st and 3rd Wednesdays 1409 28 St. W.W. 1028 Eastern Star 1st and 3rd Thursdays 1606 M St., N.W. 1185 John F. Cook 2nd and 4th Tuesdays 1606 M St., N.W. 1333 Mount Olive 1st and 3rd Mondays 1606 M St., N.W. 1343 Free Grace 1st and 3rd Wednesdays 1606 M.St., N.W. 1365 Rising Sun 2nd and 4th Wednesdays 1606 M St., N.W. 1368 Bloom of Youth 2nd and 4th Mondays 1606 M St., N.W. 1369 Star of the West 2nd and 4th Wednesdays 1606 M St., N.W. 1374 Peter Ogden 2nd and 4th Thursdays 1606 M St., N.W. 1376 Columbia 1st and 3rd Tuesdays 1409 28 St., W.W. 1380 Western Star 1st and 3rd Thursdays 1409 28 St., W.W. 1437 J. McC. Crummill 2nd and 4th Fridays 1606 M St., N.W. 1477 Green Mountain 1st and 3rd Wednesdays 1606 M St., N.W. 1602 Simon 1st and 3rd Thursdays 1606 M St., N.W. 1695 Old Ark 1st and 3rd Fridays 1606 M St., N.W. 1726 Rose Hill 2nd and 4th Thursdays 1606 M St., N.W. 1819 Social 1st and 3rd Tuesdays 1606 M St., N.W. 1965 Union Light 2nd and 4th Fridays 1409 28 St., W.W. 2033 Osceola 2nd and 4th Tuesdays 1606 M St., N.W. 2099 Wm. A. Freeman 1st and 3rd Fridays 1606 M St., N.W. 2358 Traveling Pilgrims 1st and 3rd Fridays Anacostia, D.C. 2361 A.K. Manning 1st and 3rd Mondays 1606 M St., N.W. 2362 Golden Reef 1st and 3rd Thursdays 1606 M St., N.W.

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Addresses of Permanent Secretaries. No of Name of Name of Address of Lodge. Lodge. Secretary. Secretary. 891 Union Friendship John C. Norwood 1632 Superior street, N.W. 892 Potomac Union J. W. Lee P.O. Box 56, West Wash'n. 1028 Eastern Star J. A. Bostic 1463 Pierce Place, N.W. 1185 John F. Cook George W. Parker 1215 13th street, N.W. 1333 Mount Olive James Langhorne 1012 20th street, N.W. 1343 Free Grace James H. Scott 2026 Vermont ave., N.W. 1365 Rising Sun James Coleman 1211 10th street, N.W. 1368 Bloom of Youth D. A. Clark 1013 19th street, N.W. 1369 Star of the West A. Hayson 308 3rd street, S.E. 1374 Peter Ogden B. H. Freeman 1907 M street, N.W. 1376 Columbia Joseph C. Beckett 1134 Connecticut ave., N.W. 1380 Western Star J. H. Tilghman 1421 28th street, N.W. 1437 J. McC. Crummill Henry Taylor 1416 Madison street, N.W. 1477 Green Mountain D. B. Webster 1127 C street, S.E. 1602 Simon R. M. Laws 1162 21st street, N.W. 1695 Old Ark Thomas E. Scott 6 Dudley Place, S. W. 1726 Rose Hill L. J. Allen 823 23rd street, N.W. 1819 Social George W. Pinkney 1342 5th street, N.W. 1965 Union Light Henry N. Bowles 2819 Dumbarton ave., N.W. 2033 Osceola Robert H. Gunnell 348 F street, S.W. 2099 William A. Freeman Wm. D. Montague 1303 T street, N.W. 2358 Traveling Pilgrims S.H. Triplett 709 L street, S.E. 2361 A.K. Manning George R. Watkins 1023 3rd street, N.W. 2362 Golden Reef A.W. Dangerfield Navy Department. 0054 54Year District Deputy District District District Master. District Secretary. Treasurer. Director. Master. 1880 J.A. A.K. J.W. Trunman J.R. Simms. Manning. Butcher. Ross. Davis. 1881 J.A. Simms. W.H. J.W. Trunman Carey Johnson. Butcher. Ross. Parks. 1882 Hamilton W.C. J.W. Trunman J.F.N. Wilson. Costin. Butcher. Ross. Wilkinson. 1883 J.A. Simms. C.F. J.W. Truman R.H. Moseby. Butcher. Ross. Janes. 1884 W.H. S.W. J.W. E.W. A.T. Thomas. Watson. Butcher. Jackson. Brown. 1885 J.C. T.H. S.W. E.W. A.T. Jackson. Johnson. Watson. Jackson. Brown. 1886 R.H. Lewis. A.T. Brown. S.W. E.W. Thomas Watson Jackson. Perry. 1887 R.J. J.F.N. S.W. E.W. C.H. Collins. Wilkinson. Watson Jackson. Shorter. 1888 R.H. Frederick S.W. J.W. T.H. Gunnell. Douglass. Watson. Walker. Johnson. 1889 D.B. W.W. S.W. J.W. T.H. Webster. Robinson. Watson. Walker. Johnson. 1890 D.B. Samuel S.W. J.W. Algier Webster. Hunter. Watson. Walker. White. 1891 D.B. Algier S.W. J.W. Samuel Webster. White. Watson. Walker. Hunter. Year District Deputy District District District Grand District Grand Grand Grand Master Grand Secretary. Treasurer. Directors Master 1892 D.B. Samuel S.W. J.W. Walker J.G. Webster. Hunter. Watson. Turley. H.L. Livingston J.W. Davis. 1893 D.B. C.H. S.W. J.W. F.D. Lee. Webster. Brown. Watson. Walker. Algier White. J.A. Wade. 0055 55Annual Reports of Lodges under the jurisdiction of Washington District Grand Lodge No. 20, G.U.O. of O.F., Commencing August 1st, 1892, and ending July 31st, 1893. 0056 56 RECAPITUALATION. Whole number of members 2377 Whole number financial 1995 Whole number unfinancial 382 Whole number of past officers 896 Whole number of brothers relieved 227 Whole number of brothers buried 42 Whole number of widows relieved 40 Whole number of orphans relieved 11 Whole amount paid to sick 4360 69 Whole amount paid for funerals 3246 31 Whole amount paid for widows 428 75 Whole amount paid for charity 362 04 Whole amount paid for other objects 7222 72 Whole amount paid out 15620 51 Amount invested 13678 80 Value of property 10626 91 Balance in funds 3528 52 Am't invested, value of prop. and bal. in funds, 27834 23 Number of persons rejected 1 Number of clearance cards granted 3 Number of members reinstated 25 Number of members suspended 14 Number of members forfeited 89 Number of members expelled 1

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ADDENDA. Washington Patriachie. No. 18. G.U.O. of O.F., meets at 1606 M street, N.W., the fourth Monday in each month. W.P.R., J.R.F. Browne, 1215 17th street. N.W. ERRATUM. For third paragraph, beginning “P.G.M. Council No. 4,” &c., read: P.G.M. Council, No. 4. G.U.O. of O.F., meets at 1606 M street, the second Friday in each month. Grand Secretary, C.H.T. Over, 208 10th street, S.E. [????????] N. Harris, 1508 26th street, N.W.

Hall Association, G.U.O. of O.F., meets at 1606 M street, N.W. the fourth Friday in each month. Thomas H. Wright. President David Warner, Treasurer: S.W. Watson, Secretary, 1150 21st street, N.W.

Relief Association, G.U.O. of O.F. meets at 1207 l street, N.W., the last Tuesday in each month. Charles F. Murray, President; William Walker, Secretary, 129 Virginia avenue, S. W.

Household. No., 18, meets at 1606 M street. N.W., the first Thursday in each month. Mrs. Jennie Allen, Secretary, 1624 11th street, N.W.

Household, No. 23: meets at 1506 M street. N.W., the second and fourth Tuesday in each month. A.M. Booker, Secretary, 1740 7th street, N.W.

Household, No. 29, meets at 1606 M street, N.W., the fourth Thursday in each month. James W. Jones, Secretary, 1526 M street, N.W.

Household, No. 41, meets at 1409 28th street, N.W., the third Monday in each month. Miss Emma Pope. Sec., 2900 O street. N.W.

Household, No. 86, meets at 1606 M street. N.W., the second Monday in each month. J.C. Jackson, Secretary, 1141 20th street. N.W.

Household, No. 186, meets at 1606 M street, N.W., the fourth Friday in each month. C. B. Walker, Secretary, 343 F street, S. W.

Household, No. 442, meets at 1606 M street, N.W., the third Friday in each month. William H. Thomas, Secretary, 1028 3d street, N.W.

Household, No. 569, meets at 1606 M street, N.W., the second Thursday in each month. G.W. Parker, Secretary, 1215 13th street, N.W.

Household, No. 740, meets at 1606 M street, N.W., the first and Third Monday in each month. Samuel Hunter, Secretary, 122 L street, N. W.

Household, No. 798, meets at 1607 M street, N.W., the second Wednesday in each month. Henry Taylor, Secretary, 1400 Madison, street, N.W.